January/February 2024 Magazine

T H E VO I C E A N D R E S O U R C E F O R I O WA ’ S F U E L I N D U S T R Y

PRESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE pg. 3 NEW LEGISLATIVE SESSION pg. 4 GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS

p. 8

VOLUME 77, NO.1 2024 JAN / FEB

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ON THE COVER Iowa State Capitol.

FE ATUR E S 3

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

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NEW LEGISLATIVE SESSION

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GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS

IN TH IS IS S UE

10430 New York Ave Suite F Urbandale, IA 50322 p (515) 224-7545 f (515) 224-0502 info@FUELIowa.com www.FUELIowa.com 2

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2024 PAC DONORS

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NEW BOARD MEMBERS

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MEMBER UPDATES

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INSIDE THE BELTWAY

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RISK MANAGEMENT

PR E S IDENT ’S PERS P E C TIV E Ronald N. Langston President & CEO FUELIowa 515-224-1599

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO RENEWAL AND NEW BEGINNINGS The beginning of a new Iowa legislative session offers an opportunity to review past legislative priorities and look at opportunities for new beginnings. Over the past legislative sessions, FUELIowa has sought to increase funding for infrastructure grants which will allow our members to comply with the sale of high blend liquid fuels. The increase in infrastructure grant funding from the present $50,000 to a goal of $160,000 remains a high legislative priority which we believe will incentivize members to seriously consider upgrading their infrastructure.

During the recent 2024 FUELIowa Legislative Conference, we were honored by the presence of Senator Dan Zumbach and Representative Norlin Mommsen, the respective Senate and House Chairs of the Agriculture Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittees. Their advice was simple and straight forward: “build relationships and do not try to ask for everything”. We listened and concurred, building relationships are critical to successful outcomes. FUELIowa has reached out to agricultural interests, working to find common ground to promote the distribution and sale of higher blended liquid fuels. We are committed to a constructive engagement and dialog between the Iowa retail fuel industry the Iowa’s agribusiness sectors. This will require candor and trust.

An equally important new beginning for the FUELIowa board of directors is the election of new officers and four new board members. Congratulations to the 2024 officers: Keith Olsen, (Olsen Fuel Supply) Chairman, Tessa (Fahey) Anderson, (Rainbo Oil) as Vice Chair, and Nate Lincoln, (Lincoln Farm & Home Service, LLC), Treasurer. Also newly elected to the board were Dennis Jaeger, (Mulgrew Oil & Propane), Scott Moore, (Western Oil, Inc.), Jason Stauffer, (NEWCENTURY FS) and Cara Ingle, (Unified Contracting).

The 2024 FUELIowa Board of Directors represents a broadly diverse, retail dominated and experienced body of fuel and convenience store experts to represent the Iowa retail fuel industry. We are fortunate to have such a distinguished board of directors. I am very optimistic about the potential to achieve our 2024 legislative priorities.

EXECUTIVE COM M I TTEE Keith Olsen Chair Olsen Fuel Supply Atlantic 712-243-2340

Tessa Fahey Vice Chair Rainbo Oil Dubuque 563-526-1179

Nate Lincoln Treasurer Lincoln Farm & Home Service LLC Glenwood 712-527-4833

RNL BO A RD O F D I RECT OR S Chad Besch Director New Cooperative Algona | 515-295-2741

Tia Eischeid Director Al’s Corner Oil Co Carroll | 712-673-2723

Dennis Jaeger Director Mulgrew Oil Dubuque | 563 845-8359

Scott Richardson Director Key Cooperative Roland | 515-291-0623

Chris Biellier Associate Director Seneca Companies Davenport | 563-332-8000

Wade Fowler Associate Director Core-Mark Midcontinent, Inc DBA Farner-Bocken Carroll | 641-777-0308

Nate Lincoln Director Lincoln Farm and Home, Inc. Glenwood | 712-527-4833

Jason Stauffer Director NEWCENTURY FS Ames | 515-370-3127

Don Burd Director Otter Creek Country Store Cedar Rapids | 319-533-1825 Nathaniel Doddridge Director Casey's General Stores Ankeny | 515-446-6239 F U E L I O WA // w w w. F U E L I o w a . c o m

Cara Ingle Associate Director Unified Contracting Des Moines | 515-266-5700

Scott Moore Director Western Oil, Inc Omaha | 402-618-2238 Dave Reif Director Reif Oil Company Burlington | 319-752-9809 3

New Legislative Session Brings New Opportunity For Progress

By John Maynes, Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs, FUELIowa

The 2024 Iowa Legislative Session has officially commenced. While issues like tax and education reform have grabbed headlines early in session, FUELIowa anticipates numerous issues to arise during session which could impact the retail fuel industry. We anticipate the 2024 legislative session to be a shorter session but, of course, we reserve the right to be wrong if session lingers past 100 days or April 16.

For FUELIowa, our number one priority as set by the FUELIowa Board of Directors is once again retail fuel infrastructure. Following passage of the E15 Access Standard in 2022, fuel retailers are required to offer E15 at their locations by January 1, 2026, or face the revocation of their license to sell fuel. In 2022, a comprehensive review blending public and private retail fueling infrastructure data was conducted identifying 1,158 retail fuel locations in need of infrastructure upgrades involving tanks, product lines, product dispensers, or a combination of the three, to meet the state’s edict to sell E15 by January 1, 2026, or risk losing their license to sell fuel.

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Looking back in time for the drivers of growth in the E15 market, it doesn’t take long to uncover the source. Virtually all the retail fuel outlets across the state marketing E15 have leveraged cost-share grant opportunities. These costshare opportunities come from state, federal, and private sources.

In the case of Iowa’s largest retail chains, they make up over 70 percent of the locations statewide selling E15 today, many of these locations leveraged all three funding sources to replace their existing infrastructure for the sale of E15. After a quick look back in time, the growth catalyst for E15 becomes obvious - capital investment vehicles for retail fuel infrastructure replacement.

Since the passage of Iowa’s E15 Access Standard, three neighboring states and the United States Department of Agriculture have created infrastructure investment vehicles targeting the conversion of retail fuel infrastructure for the sale of highblend biofuels including E15.

Minnesota is offering fuel retailers up to $200,000 per facility in costshare grants to retailers operating 10 or fewer locations; Missouri is offering up to $500,000 for retailers operating more than 5 locations and up to $250,000 for retailers operating 5 or fewer locations; Nebraska is offering a $50,000 cost share opportunity without any costshare program eligibility tied to the installation of E85 compatible equipment.

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All three programs referenced above are state funded programs.

Additionally, the United States Department of Agriculture HBIIP program is a federal costshare program available to retailers nationwide to invest in infrastructure for high-blend biofuels like E15. Under the USDA HBIIP program, a retailer looking to replace 4 dispensers and a single underground storage tank to market E15 would be eligible for a cost-share match of $276,000.

It's worth noting that among the four state specific programs targeting biofuel infrastructure investment, only the state of Iowa has a mandate on its fuel retailers to sell E15 and only Iowa employs a mandate that E15 sold within state borders must be sold through E85 compatible equipment.

Although Nebraska and Iowa appear to have programs which mirror each other monetarily, the cost associated with marketing E15 in Iowa is inflated, on average, by $50,000 per facility due to the E85 requirement alone. Iowa’s cost-share grant program remains capped at $50,000.

With Iowa’s Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Grant Program lagging the biofuel infrastructure programs offered by our neighbors in Missouri, Minnesota, and Nebraska, what can we do in Iowa to advance policy to facilitate the infrastructure expansion mandated by the Iowa Legislature? First, we need to level-set the expectations for compliance with the January

1, 2026, statutory deadline for retailers to offer E15. Our existing petroleum equipment contractor workforce can only take on and complete 100 projects annually of the type required under Iowa law.

At a minimum, we are looking at 10 years before the goal of Iowa’s E15 Access Standard can be met.

Maximizing our existing workforce capacity to complete 100 projects per year should be our focus, under the structure of the existing Iowa RFIP program where $50,000 is available to retailers, we are averaging 31.4 ethanol projects over the life of the program.

Second, we need to recognize the reality faced by fuel retailers asked to make these infrastructure investments. The investment will not trigger new gasoline sales in a market that is stagnant at best and showing trends toward a decline in consumption. In the simplest business terms possible, Iowa lawmakers are mandating retailers make the capital investment to sell more ethanol per gallon but the same or less gallons overall. This reality makes a retailers return-oninvestment a difficult proposition.

For these reasons and more, the FUELIowa Board of Directors believes a policy position advocating for change to Iowa’s Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Grant Program (RFIP) best serves the needs of Iowa’s fuel retailers.

The Board believes this approach will best position our industry’s goal of making the E15 Access Standard a model biofuels policy for other states to follow.

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Fortunately, our conversations with lawmakers over the interim regarding infrastructure funding have largely been positive.

Lawmakers recognize the financial burden placed on retailers, particularly those rural retailers who provide critical links to Iowa’s rural fuel distribution network.

Additionally, powerful advocacy groups like the Iowa Corn Growers Association, the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives, and the Agribusiness Association of Iowa have shown an interest in partnering with FUELIowa to address the inequity created between the E15 Access Standard and the burden placed on fuel retailers by advocating for a new cost share structure under the Iowa RFIP.

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As odd as it may seem, our greatest opposition to improving the business environment surrounding the sale of E15 in Iowa will come from the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA). IRFA’s position is to see no change to the RFIP which is rooted in their belief that it is a better policy to keep the grants where they’ve been for the last 15 years to spread the available dollars as widely as possible.

Despite their opposition to an improved RFIP program, we will work closely with IRFA to seek common ground and identify the best path forward.

In the coming weeks, FUELIowa will be hosting a series of regional membership meetings. Please consider joining us. These meetings are a great opportunity to meet and talk with your lawmakers in a relaxed setting. Sharing your story of how legislation impacts your business at these meetings is arguably our most effective advocacy tool.

Growing E15 Sales Goal

To make Iowa’s E15 Access Standard a success while preserving Iowa’s rural fuel distribution network. FuelIowa’s policy goal is to ensure retailers can afford to upgrade infrastructure to provide the broadest availability of E15 and higher blends of fuel to customers in all 99 counties.

Request 75%

Increase the cost share cap within the Iowa Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Grant Program to the lesser of $160,000 or 70%, 75%, or 90% of the overall project cost associated with the sale of E15 or E85. Cost share eligibility would be tiered based on gas gallons sold with the higher tiers available to be accessed by the small volume gas stations comprising Iowa’s rural fuel distribution network. Additionally, program funding would be appropriated through the state general fund at a rate of $17.925 million.

$193,812 2007 PROJECT COST

4 dispensers, 1 tank, & associated product lines

2,002 GAS STATIONS

$503,954 2023 PROJECT COST For same scope of work

160% Fueling

1,158 INCOMPATIBLE SITES

57.8%

infrastructure project cost increase since RFIP program start date

gas stations with incompatible tanks, product piping, dispensers or a combination of the three

total retail gasoline stations in Iowa

57.8% of retail

gas stations in Iowa will need infrastructure replacement

$50,000 + $23,000 + $50,000 + $37,000 = $160,000

Original Grant in 2009

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Inflation

E85 Requirement

Rising cost of fuel infrastructure & labor over 15 years

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Get to Know Your New Board Members

By Sarah Bowman,

Communications Director, FUELIowa

Dennis Jaeger Mulgrew Oil and Propane Dennis is the Manager of Procurement and Inventory for Mulgrew Oil and Propane Co. in Dubuque IA. Mulgrew Oil and Propane Co. is a family owned and operated business serving the energy needs of the Tri-State area since 1893 with 15 active fuel and propane bulk plants located in Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. He has been involved in the oil and gas industry for the past 11 years and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a degree in Business Management. Dennis and his wife Beth of 27 years have 2 boys and call Dubuque their home.

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Dennis shared, “I look forward to the opportunity to work with other leaders to ensure the decisions made today have positive impacts on the future of our industry in Iowa. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations of our business. I have served on other boards in my career and the opportunity look at the big picture, help lead our industry and be part of the voice to educate and guide our market for future generations motivates me. As our market continues to evolve, the ability to influence decisions and decision makers in our state to ensure we are at the forefront with innovative solutions that have the best interest of Iowans at heart excites me.”

Oil is a branded wholesaler of BP/ Amoco, Phillips 66/Conoco, Shell and Sinclair fuel to 92 locations across Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. Along with transporting all of the company ops and wholesale petroleum sites, Western Oil Transportation is also a common carrier for 60+ locations.

Scott and his wife Amy have been married for 27 years and they have a daughter, McKenzie, in her junior year at UNO double majoring in chemistry and biology, a son Nicholas in his junior year of high school, and a son Caleb in seventh grade.

Scott is excited to learn from the association and help serve the membership with his 25 years of experience in the industry. “I am thankful for this opportunity to be an advocate for the industry that has been a part of my life for 25 years now. I am interested in in the issues that affect petroleum marketers, and I look forward to being one of a small group that collectively speak for many.”

Scott Moore Western Oil Inc. Scott is the Transportation Fleet Manager / Safety Director, a Wholesale Fuel Sales Manager, and Branded Image Manager in the Omaha, NE, office for Western Oil Inc, based out of Valentine, NE. He started in the industry in 1999 where he worked for Rite Way Oil & Gas Co, Inc., for 16 years before the company was sold to Western Oil in 2015. Western Oil owns and operates 47 convenience stores in Iowa and Nebraska. Western

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Jason Stauffer New Century FS Jason currently serves as Manager of Refined Fuel Sales and Marketing

at New Century FS of Ames, IA. New Century FS operates more than 38 branded retail fueling stations and markets refined and renewable fuels, bulk and packaged lubricants, and propane to customers in Central Iowa, Northwest Iowa, and beyond. As a part of the GROWMARK System, Jason not only represents New Century FS, but all FS-branded companies across the state.

Jason is excited to serve on the FUELIowa board, as he will be an effective voice for both cooperatives and independent fuel marketers. He wants to advocate for members while helping shape legislation that will benefit the industry for years to come. His 26 years in the petroleum industry have given him insight into all the challenges our industry faces. Because of Jason’s history with GROWMARK, he knows the importance of uniting to a common goal and making sure our voice is heard on legislative issues affecting our industry. “I have been in the fuel industry for over 26 years. One thing that I can tell you is that change is inevitable and in the long run change can bring positive outcomes not initially seen. I want to bring a voice to the board on legislative rules and regulations that impact our industry not only today but in the future.”

“The GROWMARK system values our FUELIowa membership for ongoing commitment to working with state and federal representatives in addition to the public,” said Stauffer. “FUELIowa is a strong voice of reason and does an outstanding job reaching out to its members for feedback on ongoing and future issues.”

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testing/installation, vacuum truck services, licensed electricians, fuel dispensing and POS services, testing, and compliance management to customers in Iowa and surrounding states.

Cara Ingle Unified Contracting Cara is the Environmental & Compliance Manager at Unified Contracting Services.

Unified provides ground up installations for underground and aboveground fuel systems, tank removals, cathodic protection

C-Store owners and general managers come to Westmor when they don’t know how to build, expand or remodel their store. Oftentimes they’re frustrated with the lack of transparency with the cost of building a new store and they have too many contacts to keep the project efficient.

Cara has over 8 years of experience in the industry and spent the majority of those years with the Iowa DNR assisting operators with compliance, rulemaking, interpreting regulations, and presenting at UST professional licensing courses. In 2020, she created what is now the Compliance & Testing Division at Unified further expanding their services to meet industry needs.

She is currently serving as the President of the Iowa Petroleum

Equipment Contractors Association.

She takes pride in being extremely knowledgeable of all aspects of state and federal UST system requirements, as they are ever changing. Cara is eager to bring her extensive experience and dedication to better serve all members of FUELIowa.

Cara explained, “In the wake of the E15 Access Standard, the board needs more knowledgeable individuals with more technical knowledge, experience in fuel system compatibility, and interpretation of regulations. I hope to provide more technical fuel system knowledge and education to the board to assist in creating better policies which benefit the membership as a whole.”

BUILD IT

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

YOUR WAY » Single source solution for your entire project » Full cost transparency » Turn-key construction experience » Be involved as much or as little as you would like » Keep your project on time and budget

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WANT BETTER HEALTH INSURANCE FOR LESS? HEALTHAlliance offers industry leading health & wellness plans exclusively designed to meet the needs of fuel marketers, convenience stores, and associated businesses. With partners like Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Delta Dental & more, our members enjoy the finest coverage at low rates due to the combined buying strength of our membership.

www.HealthAllianceBenefitPlan.com

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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES April 15-17, 2024 GENERAL SESSIONS

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WORKSHOPS

The largest convention for the fuel industry in the Upper Midwest.

EXHIBITORS

NETWORKING

info @u mcs.energy | w w w.umcs.energy

GOAL: $100k YTD: $56.7k GOAL: $100k YTD: 57% $45.1k

Donors:

45.1% GOAL: 100

VISIONARY ($5,000+) $ 14,000 Bev & Henry Jessen - Cylinder Express* VISIONARY ($5,000+) $ 5,000 Paul && Tessa Fahey $ 5,000 Paul Tessa Fahey- -Rainbo Rainbo Oil* Oil* $ 5,000 Larry Bentler, Jet $ 5,000 Larry Bentler, JetGas* Gas* $ 5,000 Ronald N. Langston - FUELIowa^ $ 5,000 Don Burd - Otter Creek Country Stores* LEADER ($2,500-$4,999) $4,000 Robert Mast - Mast ATM $2,500 Thomas Flogel - Mulgrew Oil LEADER ($2,500-$4,999) $2,500 ToddMast Kanne - Community Oil* $4,000 Robert - Mast ATM $2,500 Randy AndrewWoodard Woodard -- Elliott Elliott Oil* $2,500 Randy && Andrew Oil* $2,500 Jason McDermott - McDermott Oil* $2,500 Todd Kanne - Community Oil* $2,500 Cliff & Dave Reif - Reif Oil* $2,500 Jason McDermott - McDermott Oil* $2,500 Keith Olsen - Olsen Fuel Supply $2,500 Cliff & Dave Reif - Reif Oil* $2,500 Ronald N. Langston - FUELIowa^

PARTNER ($1,000-$2,449) $1,500 Don ($1,000-$2,449) Burd - Otter Creek Country Stores PARTNER $2,000 Steve Kimmes - Kimmes $1,500 Joe Zietlow - Kwik Trip^ Enterprises LLC $1,500 John Gilroy- Cobb - Grysson $1,000 Mark Cobb Oil Oil $1,500 Eric Taylor - Taylor Quik Pik $1,000 Jennifer Likes - Harms Oil ^ $1,000 Marc Beltrame - Beltrame Law Firm $1,000 Thomas Flogel -– Mulgrew $1,000 Gary Koerner FUELIowa Oil $1,000 Marc Beltrame - Beltrame Law Firm $1,000 Jim Ewing – FUELIowa $1,000 Richard Weiner - Cartersville Elevator $1,000 Eric Taylor - Taylor Oil

YTD: 38 Donors: GOAL: 100 YTD: 24 38%

24% FRIEND ($500-$999) $500 Matt Scheetz FRIEND ($500-$999) $500 Travis Buhman $500 David Scheetz $500 Jason Floy

$500 Matt Scheetz $500 Jeff Wade

CONTRIBUTOR($0-$499) ($0-$499) CONTRIBUTOR $400Joseph Adam Miller Gardiner $200 $300Stratton Jim Pauk $100 Benscoter $250 Nate Lincoln $100 Rick Graber $250 DougBast Coziahr $25 Martin $250 Forrest Payne $200 Keith Crandall $200 Eric Scheuchl $150 John Maynes $150 Gary Koerner $150 Jim Ewing $150 Sarah Bowman $150 Reo Menning $100 John Meehan $100 Dean Onken

^ Sustaining Member * Fuel Marketer Program F U E L I O WA // w w w. F U E L I o w a . c o m

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FUELIowa Seats New Board Members, Elects Executive Committee

By Sarah Bowman,

Communications Director, FUELIowa

FUELIowa held elections for their Board of Directors in December 2023. During the FUELIowa Board meeting held January 10, 2024, the results of the Board of Directors’ election were announced.

The election resulted in the re-election of Chad Besch (NEWCooperative, Algona), Don Burd (Otter Creek Country Stores, Hiawatha), Wade Fowler (CoreMark, Carroll), and Keith Olsen (Olsen Fuel Supply, Atlantic) to another term to the Board of Directors.

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New to the board is Cara Ingle (Unified Contracting, Urbandale), Dennis Jaeger (Mulgrew Oil & Propane, Dubuque), Scott Moore (Western Oil, Inc., Omaha, NE), and Jason Stauffer (NEW CENTURY FS, Ames).

“I am excited to continue my work on the FUELIowa board and serving as Chairman of FUELIowa, “said Chairman Olsen.

After the new board members were seated, nominations were offered for the Executive Committee. Keith Olsen (Olsen Fuel Supply, Atlantic) was elected to the Chairmanship, Tessa Anderson (Rainbo Oil, Dubuque) was elected as Vice-Chair, and Nate Lincoln (Lincoln Farm & Home, Glenwood) was elected Treasurer.

“We are pleased to welcome Mr. Olsen as Chairman of the Board for FUELIowa,” stated Ronald N. Langston, FUELIowa President and CEO. “Mr. Olsen’s years of expertise in the industry will assist in guiding our mission and vision of the FUELIowa membership, and I look forward to working with him.”

Mr. Langston continued, “We thank Bev Jessen (Cylinder Express, Battle Creek), Steve Kimmes (Kimmes Enterprises, Carroll), and Joe Zietlow (Kwik Trip, LaCrosse WI) for their service on the board.”

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M EMBER HAPPEN IN GS FU E L I OWA M E M B E RS I N THE N E WS

Chevron acquired Renewable Energy

Welcome New Members!

and Europe, Chevron Renewable

Group. With 11 biorefineries in the U.S. Energy Group produced 441 million

Global Tank Trailer Sales, offering

gallons of renewable fuels, which

a diverse range of new and used

resulted in roughly 3.9 million metric

equipment for sale or lease - elevating

tons of carbon reduced in 2022 alone

your operations with unmatched

and confirmed their status as a leader

reliability and cost-effective solutions.

in converting renewable resources into lower carbon biofuels.

JJ’s Valley Mart, located in Rock Valley, Iowa

As one of the originators of the biodiesel production process, Danzer

JF Petroleum Group, a leading

draws upon nearly 40 years of industry

turnkey solutions provider to the

experience to lead the company’s

North American fueling infrastructure

efforts in providing renewable fuel

industry.

solutions with a reduced carbon emissions footprint.

From Patent to Progress: How Myron Danzer and Iowa-based Chevron

“In 2002, REG built the continuous flow

Renewable Energy Group continue

plant, which is the process we still use

forging new paths in the biofuels

today in many of our biodiesel plants,

industry

particularly the ones in Iowa,” Danzer

Source: IowaEDA.com

said. “That technology lives on, but we’ve made a variety of process improvements that make biodiesel

FU ELIowa F a shi o n is Avai l abl e !

As an inventor on an early patent for

more economical to produce,

producing biodiesel, one might think

all while realizing efficiencies with

that Myron Danzer’s contribution to

the oil and chemicals we use in its

the industry was enough innovation

production.”

Men or Womens Jacket:

to last an entire career. But, like

Port Authority® Packable

many of his fellow Iowans, Danzer

Dr. Martin Haverly, Chevron

Puffy Jacket

wasn’t content to rest on that

Renewable Energy Group’s Director

Color: Black

accomplishment alone.

of Research & Development and Innovation, works closely with Danzer’s

Sizes: XS-4XL After 16 years with the company,

team and is tasked with advancing

Men or Womens Vest:

driven by an innate spirit of ingenuity

renewable fuel technologies with the

Port Authority® Packable

and a passion for innovation, Danzer

future in mind. Supporting those efforts

Puffy Vest

continues to lead the development of

is Iowa’s commitment to renewable

Color: Black

new industry-transforming processes as

fuel production, evident by the state’s

Sizes: XS-4XL

Chevron Renewable Energy Group’s

status as the United States’ leader in

executive director of biodiesel

ethanol and biodiesel production.

Email Jim Ewing at

projects.

to order your FUELIowa fashion.

One of the organization’s largest

jim@fueliowa.com

“It’s inspiring to think about how milestones occurred last summer when

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much investment in renewables

has happened in Iowa over the

we’ve made in our Iowa biodiesel

Former FUELIowa Board Member

last decade,” Haverly said. “We’re

production facilities in Newton,

Retires

anticipating even more investments

Mason City and Ralston are critical in

on the horizon thanks to rapid

reaching that milestone and helping

advancements in technology

our clients’ reach their carbon

W&H Coop and Former FUELIowa

adoption and infrastructure

emission reduction targets.”

Board Member Jim Pauk has retired.

development across the state. It’s truly amazing to be a part of.”

His last day was December 15. We The convergence of Chevron

thank Jim for all of his work with, and

Renewable Energy Group’s strategic

support of FUELIowa.

Danzer and Haverly also cited state

vision and Iowa’s exceptional

government support and leading-

bioindustry has led to a significant

edge renewables research at Iowa’s

number of renewable fuels on the

universities as reasons to remain

market.

bullish on the future of Iowa’s biofuels industry. An example of these efforts

“Chevron didn’t have much of a

include Chevron’s partnership with

footprint in Iowa prior to acquiring

Iowa State University on a hydrotreater

REG, but since acquiring us, Chevron

pilot plant at Iowa State University’s

has remained committed to keep the

BioCentury Research Farm (BCRF).

business going strong and continue

The hydrotreater pilot plant utilizes

to invest in Iowa. This says a lot about

the expertise of both organizations

Chevron’s perspective when they

to better understand how various

bought us, they recognized that

biomass feedstocks can play a role in

there’s something special going on

the production of renewable fuels with

here and that it should be fostered,”

We wish him and Cindy the best! Enjoy

a specific focus on renewable diesel.

Haverly said.

Retirement!

This sentiment encapsulates how companies like Chevron Renewable Energy Group tap into Iowa’s unique blend of business-friendly policies and cutting-edge research institutions.

As the company forges ahead with its ambitious goals, Iowa remains a unique place for innovators in the bioindustry to call home.

“We’re very excited that Chevron

RICHMOND, Va. — Performance Food

Renewable Energy Group is going

“I’ve traveled all over the country and

Group Co. (PFG) appointed Chris

to continue to operate out of Ames

people ask, ‘since you’ve traveled

Hobson to the role of president and

(Iowa), with a focus on our lower

so much, where is the best place to

CEO of its convenience business,

carbon fuels business segment,”

live,’” Danzer said. “I always come

overseeing the Core-Mark subsidiary.

Danzer said. “Chevron believes the

back to the conclusion that it’s

future of energy is lower carbon

Iowa. When you look around at our

He takes over from Scott McPherson,

and one of our aspirations is to have

surroundings, and the pride we have

who has been promoted to executive

the capacity to profitably produce

in Iowa, it’s special. There are pockets

vice president and chief field

100,000 barrels of renewable fuel per

of that in the U.S., but in Iowa, it’s

operations officer.

day by 2030, and the investments

everywhere.”

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Hobson began his career at Core-

bp Names New CEO

Mark as a general sales manager

transformation to an integrated energy company.”

and has held numerous leadership positions during his more than 20-year

Interim CEO and former CFO Murray

Auchincloss said: “It’s an honor to

tenure, including division president,

Auchincloss has been named the

lead bp—this is a great company

vice president of marketing, senior

company’s top leader.

with great people. Our strategy—

vice president, and president and

from international oil company to

chief operating officer (COO). In his

integrated energy company, or

expanded role, he will continue to

IOC to IEC—does not change. I’m

oversee performance, enterprise

convinced about the significant value

growth and marketing/purchasing/

we can create.”

merchandising, while adding the “Now, more than ever, our focus

responsibilities of finance, human resources and IT. Hobson will continue

bp announced that the board

must remain on delivery—operating

to report to McPherson.

has appointed Murray Auchincloss

safely and efficiently, executing with

as bp chief executive officer with

discipline, and always focusing on

McPherson, in the meantime, will add

immediate effect. Auchincloss,

returns,” Auchincloss said. “This is how

the responsibility of leading PFG's

who has been interim CEO since

we will deliver real benefits for our

foodservice business segment, in

September 2023, will continue as a

customers and other stakeholders and

addition to his current responsibilities

member of the bp board.

continue to grow long-term value for bp’s shareholders.”

overseeing PFG's Vistar and convenience businesses, and will

The company stated that his

continue to report to Craig Hoskins,

appointment was made following

Before becoming interim chief

PFG's president and COO.

a “robust and competitive search

executive officer in September

process,” carried out by the board

2023, Auchincloss had been bp’s

Other personnel changes include

over the past four months with

chief financial officer since July

the promotion of Sean Mahoney to

support from international search

2020, at which time he also joined

president and CEO at Vistar, where he

advisers. This included detailed

bp’s board. He had previously

will continue to lead the day-to-day

consideration of a range of

served as CFO, deputy CFO and

operations of the business segment.

candidates, including external to bp.

head of business development for bp’s Upstream segment. From 2010-

He joined Vistar in 2014 as channel vice president and has progressed

“Since September, bp’s board has

2013, Auchincloss was head of bp’s

through several leadership roles

undertaken a thorough and highly

group chief executive’s office, working

including multichannel vice president,

competitive process to identify bp’s

directly with Bob Dudley.

senior vice president and sales and

next CEO, considering a number of

marketing, and president and COO.

high-caliber candidates in detail.

In 2023, bp acquired TravelCenters of

Mahoney will also continue to report

The board is in complete agreement

America in a $1.3 billion deal.

to McPherson.

that Murray was the outstanding candidate and is the right leader for

"These changes support both the

bp,” said Helge Lund, chair of bp.

continued development for these

18

remarkable leaders today, and into

Lund added, “Many already know

the future" said Hoskins. "We've added

Murray well, and few know bp better

so much talent to our organization

than he does. His assured leadership,

over the last few years through

focus on performance and delivery,

strategic acquisitions, and we are

and deep understanding of the

also fortunate to have so many

opportunities and challenges in

outstanding associates in our legacy

the energy transition will serve bp

businesses to help lead our company."

well as we continue our disciplined

December 8, 2023 RE: Chuck Ellis Retirement Announcement Dear Lottery Partner, This letter is to inform you that Chuck Ellis, Key Account Representative, has announced his retirement effective January 31, 2024. Chuck has been a valued member of the Iowa Lottery’s Sales team for 25 years. We are grateful for Chuck’s dedication to our organization over the years and will sorely miss his business acumen.

The search for Chuck’s replacement will begin soon. In the interim, JD Schroder will take over Chuck’s accounts. Once we have hired a new Key Account Executive, JD will assist in training the individual to allow a smooth transition. You will be notified when Chuck’s replacement has been named. We look forward to our continued partnership.

JD Schroder contact information: jschroder@ialottery.com 515-587-7164 Please join me in congratulating Chuck on reaching this important milestone and for his service to the Iowa Lottery and the State of Iowa.

Sincerely, Mike Loss Director of Sales and Retail Services

Cc:

Chuck Ellis, Key Account Executive Jon Roth, CRO JD Schroder, Key Account Executive

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INSIDE THE BELTWAY

While the House was in recess and the Senate was tied up with immigration, there was plenty of action in the Capitol relevant to EMA. On Wednesday, 77 House and Senate Republicans wrote the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urging it to drop its proposed fuel emission standard, stating that this was “yet another attempt by this Administration to use the rulemaking process to impose its climate agenda on American families.” A NHTSA response disputed this, saying the rule would save Americans money and strengthen American energy independence.

Separately, last week, the House passed a Senate Joint Resolution revoking the Administration’s EV rule titled “Waiver of Buy America Requirements for Electric Vehicle Chargers.” Using the Congressional Review Act (CRA), Congress may overturn and eliminate federal regulations it disagrees with, but the catch is that, like any law, it must be approved by the president. On Wednesday, President Biden vetoed the measure, but not before Congress was able to send the President a strong message about his EV rule. Typically,

E NE RG Y MARKE TE RS O F AME RICA

CRA is used to undo regulations when

Meanwhile, CVR Energy Inc. submitted

a new President takes office as it can

a petition for rulemaking to the

(1) revoke the regulation more quickly

Biden administration to prohibit non-

than an alternative rulemaking and (2)

obligated parties from possessing

it prohibits a future Administration from

and trading Renewable Identification

issuing a generally similar rule in the

Numbers (RINs), reviving a push for

future. The CRA only applies to those

changes to the Renewable Fuel

regulations advanced during the final

Standard. CVR Energy argues the

60 Session Days of a Congress. While

current approach disadvantages

this date is still not confirmed, it is likely

independent and merchant refiners

around Memorial Day 2024.

such as its Coffeyville Resources Refining & Marketing, LLC and

There was also movement on the

Wynnewood Refining Company, LLC,

bipartisan, bicameral tax bill as the

because they are obligated to fulfill

House Ways and Means Committee

annual biofuel blending targets even

approved its version of the bill 40-3. As

though they lack sufficient blending

we noted last week, the Tax Relief for

capacity to generate tradable credits

American Families and Workers Act of

known as RINs required to show

2024 includes: (1) an expanded Child

compliance with the quotas. CVR is

Tax Credit; (2) extensions of sought-

leveraging a November ruling by a

after business tax breaks including the

federal appeals court that rejected

immediate deductibility of Research

part of the EPA’s justification for the

and Development (R&D) expenses,

current approach, saying it was

100 percent bonus depreciation, and

“implausible” to believe all refiners are

interest deductibility; (3) disaster tax

able to pass their RIN costs through to

relief for recent natural and man-

customers in the price of their fuels. The

made disasters, including certain

15-billion-gallon corn ethanol mandate

hurricanes, flooding, wildfires, and

has raised the value of renewable

the Ohio rail disaster; (4) a state

identification numbers (RINs) thereby

housing credit ceiling increase and

creating an uneven playing field in

softens tax-exempt bond financing

the retail motor fuels market – picking

requirements for the Low-Income

winners and losers based on a

Housing Tax Credit program through

government mandate. Related to this

2025; (5) an increase in the reporting

issue has been the petition to the EPA

thresholds for payments; and (6)

to move the point of obligation from

accelerates termination of the fraud-

the refiner level to the position holder

ridden Employee Retention Tax Credit

at the rack that some argue would

program. In additional tax news, Rep.

reduce the value of RINs.

Randy Feenstra (R-IA) introduced the “Death Tax Repeal Act of 2023.”

Outside of Washington, we’ve been

Passage of this bill would be a heavy

talking a lot about the Iowa Caucus,

lift, especially with a Democratically

but this is also gaining attention: the

controlled Senate, but if enacted it

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association and

would eliminate any estate taxes or

the Iowa Corn Promotion Board issued

any generation skipping tax, both of

a joint statement that Iowa farmers

which as longtime Republican goals.

22

FUELIowa not only keeps you informed in Iowa but on a federal level as well by partnering with our national organization, EMA. If it will impact you, we’ve got you covered.

and corn growers are not positioned to enter the market for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as they lack the infrastructure to produce fuel with a low-enough carbon score to qualify.

The letter notes that “Only one plant in the U.S. […] is currently producing SAF-friendly ethanol. By contrast, Brazil produces over 7 billion gallons of ethanol with a carbon score expected to qualify for SAF production.” This is one issue Congress may seek to address in the Farm Bill and FAA Reauthorization later this year.

And last but not least, the IRS issued guidance on the Qualified Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit.

The changes apply to qualified alternative fuel vehicle refueling property placed in service after Dec. 31, 2022, and before Jan. 1, 2033.

Starting January 1, 2023, the credit for qualified refueling property subject to depreciation equals 6 percent with a maximum credit of $100,000 for each single item of property.

Businesses meeting prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements may be eligible for a 30 percent credit with the same $100,000 limit. For qualifying property not subject to depreciation, the credit equals 30 percent of the cost with a maximum amount of $1,000 per item. For property placed in service before January 1, 2023 (including personal property), the credit is 30 percent of the cost of qualified refueling property with a maximum total credit allowed of $30,000 for depreciable property and $1,000 for all other property.

F U E L I O WA // w w w. F U E L I o w a . c o m

23

WE SUPPORT OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT

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RISK M A NAGEM E N T

By Risk Improvement Department, EMC Insurance Companies, Des Moines, Iowa

Four Tips for Using Ice Melt Effectively When it comes to maintaining your sidewalks and parking areas during the winter, ice melt can be a valuable tool. Make sure you're getting the most out of your ice melt with these tips.

Put It Where It Counts Ice melt must be applied right on the walking surface to be effective. Ideally, this should happen before a snow storm. If that's not possible, spread the ice

26

melt after you have cleared the snow instead of just putting it on top.

Don't Apply Too Much According to manufacturers, less is usually more when it comes to ice melt. Applying too much is costly, can cause environmental damage and may leave a slippery residue on your floors if it is tracked inside. Help control your application by using handheld fertilizer spreaders for small areas and walk-behind spreaders for large areas.

Colored ice melt can also give you a visual indication of how much has been put down.

Keep It Outside Help reduce tracked-in ice melt residue by placing mats both outside and inside all entrances.

Hard surface floors should be mopped as needed throughout the day and mats should be replaced when they become saturated.

Consider the Surface Ice melt is not recommended for new concrete less than a year old, or on porous walkways surfaces such as brick. To reduce concrete damage, be sure to remove the slushy layer once the ice melt has done its job. You may also want to apply a sealer to concrete surfaces that are frequently exposed to ice melt.

CAL ENDAR O F EV EN T S F E BR UARY 9 , 2 0 2 4 LEGISL ATIVE LUNCH & LEARN Carrol, Iowa

F E BR UARY 1 6 , 2 0 2 4 LEGISL ATIVE LUNCH & LEARN Dubuque, Iowa

F E BR UARY 2 3 , 2 0 2 4 LEGISL ATIVE LUNCH & LEARN Storm Lake, Iowa

A P RI L 1 5 -1 7 , 2 0 2 4 UMCS CONVENTION St. Paul, Minnesota

M AY 1 5 -1 7 , 2 0 2 4 E M A 2 0 2 4 WA S H I N G T O N C O N F E R E N C E & DAY O N T H E H I L L Washington, DC

JU NE 1 0 , 2 0 2 4 F U E L I OWA B E N E F I T F O R CA M P C O U R AG E O U S Iowa City, Iowa

AU GU S T 1 -2 , 2 0 2 4 SUMMERFEST AND ANNUAL MEETING Okoboji, Iowa

F U E L I O WA // w w w. F U E L I o w a . c o m

27

A G EN DA HIGHL IGHT S MONDAY, APRIL 15 Registration Desk Open 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Educational Workshops: Alternative Fuels, Business Ownership & Hot Topics Tracks 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday Featured Speaker, John Eichberger 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception & Silent Auction Begins

Hospitality Night & Silent Auction Enjoy Open Bar & Appetizers

TUESDAY, APRIL 16 Registration Desk Open 8:30 a.m.- 9:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker, Frank Kelly 9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. State of the Associations Exhibit Hall Open 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Happy Hour(s) on show floor 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Dinner, Federal Issues - Joint Iowa and Minnesota Discussion - Rob Underwood, President, EMA, & Comedian 7:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.Casino Night & Hospitality - Enjoy Open Bar & More

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17 Registration Desk Open 8:00 a.m.- 9:00 a.m. Prayer Breakfast: Billy Molls Exhibit Hall Open Educational Workshops: Driver, Hot Topics, & C-Store Tracks

28

ai1707169345240_25293 UMCS Trifold 2024 MASTER.pdf

2

2/5/24

3:42 PM

#UMCS2023

EDUC A T I O N A L WOR K SHOPS

TUESDAY KEYNOTE SPEAKER Frank Kelly

APRIL 15-17 ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

Energy Future Climate, Carbon, China - Impact on Liquid Fuels Having worked as a senior executive on Wall Street as well as having served in senior government roles, Frank brings extensive global experience and insight into the public policy decision making process and its impact on global markets.

A G EN DA HIGHLIGHT S

Mr. Kelly will be sharing his insights for our industry after meeting with major energy CEOs.

BUSINESS OWNER TRACK ALTERNATIVE FUELS TRACK You Won’t Believe What Is in Your Storage Tank

MONDAY FEATURED SPEAKER John Eichberger

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17

MONDAY, APRIL 15 HOT TOPICS TRACK

Chris Biellier Seneca Companies

Billy Molls Billy Molls, Motivational Speaker, Author Molls has documented his adventures through his Modern Day Mountain Man DVD series. An author and renowned storyteller, even non-hunters will be entertained, educated and inspired by riveting tales of airplane wrecks, grizzly encounters, and countless life changing experiences of this real-life “Modern Day Mountain Man”.

Succession & Strategic Planning - Positioning YourOrganization for the Future

COMEDIAN

David Malmberg

Vape - Where’s it going?

Chevron Renewable EnergyGroup

Richard Marianos Former Assistant Director ATF

Jacob LeTourneau MN DPS

Kirsten Libby Libby Law

Kwik Trip

Biofuels Infrastructure & Grants - E15, Biodiesel, USDA & State Grants

Evolving Landscape of Electric Vehicle Charging

My Driver Just Tested Positive - What Do I Do Now?

Who’s Covering the Shift? Trends in Turnover, Retention, Leave and Planning

Disruption or Distraction?

Innovative Strategies to Position C-Stores for Success

Jeff Carpenter USDA

Brady Laing Blink EV Chargers

Chuck St. Martin

Speaker TBA

John Maynes FUELIowa

Roadside Inspection on the Show Floor

Building Your Brand, Customer Engagement, and Loyalty on a Budget

RREEGGI ISSTTEERR TTOODDAAYY AATT UUMM

Tim Gross Fueling Minnesota

COVER

Jim Pearson Xcel Energy

Speaker TBA

This multi-talented seasoned performer has been the featured entertainment for some of the largest corporations in the country.

He has also had the pleasure of sharing the stage with many top music acts in America including Mary Chapin Carpenter, Merle Haggard, and the Statler Brothers.

THC & Cannabis Where’s it going?

Alternative Fuels Feedstocks, Aviation Fuel Renewable Biodiesel, B20

The Future of Fuels Eichberger is the Executive Director of the Transportation Energy Institute, a non-profit social welfare organization that publishes fact-based research designed to answer relevant market questions.Eichberger spent more than 14 years at NACS, representing the conv

C-STORE TRACK

HOT TOPICS TRACK

DRIVERS TRACK

Frank Beard Rovertown

Richard Trebtoske Pump Meter

All Monday Tracks - John Eichberger

Rob Underwood Join Rob for important updates on what is happening at the federal level, "Inside the Beltway". From legislative to regulatory, hear what EMA is doing to serve the industry. Whether it is EV's, E15, the EPA, USTs, EMV - you name it, EMA is on it.

APRIL 15-17 ST. PAUL, MN

LEARN MORE

APR. APRIL17-19, 15-17 Easthttps:// www.rceader.com/ news-releases/taxchanges-evcharging-statinsjuly-1 Dubuque, Iowa

ST. ST. PAUL, PAUL, MINNE MINNE

Excludes Tuesday Dinner Banquet & Prayer Breakfast

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GOLF OUTING

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CAMP COURAGEOUS OF IOWA is a year-round respite care and recreational facility for individuals of all ages with disabilities. The camp was established in 1972 with the first 211 campers attending in the summer of 1974. Today, Camp Courageous serves over 2024 UMCS FOUR & 7,000 individuals with disabilities in a year-round program.

FUELIowa has been a proud supporter for over 50 years, Call Jim at 515-421-4596 or email jim@fueliowa.com and raised over $2 Million for the camp!

F U E L I O WA // w w w. F U E L I o w a . c o m to register your foursome

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F U E L I O WA // w w w. F U E L I o w a . c o m

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PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE

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