FROM THE BOARDROOM CHAIRMAN Ron Kindred, Atlanta District 9 VICE CHAIRMAN Brad Daugherty, West Union District 14 SECRETARY Tim Scates, Carmi At-Large TREASURER Bryan Severs, Potomac District 7 ASSISTANT SECRETARY-TREASURER Dwayne Anderson, Lynn Center District 3 GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIR Steve Pitstick, Maple Park District 2 MARKET DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CHAIR Brian Atteberry, Carmi District 16 SOYBEAN PRODUCTION COMMITTEE CHAIR Brady Holst, Plymouth At-Large
David Niekamp, Coatsburg | District 8 Elliott Uphoff, Shelbyville | District 10 Matt Murray, Paxton | District 11 Brock Willard, Pittsfield | District 12 Heath Houck, Nokomis | District 13 Jeff Parker, Belleville | District 15 Nick Harre, Nashville | District 17 Rick Rubenacker, McLeansboro | District 18 AT-LARGE DIRECTORS Betsey Emerick, Vandalia Jeff O'Connor, Kankakee David Wessel, Chandlerville UNITED SOYBEAN BOARD (USB) Dwayne Anderson, Lynn Center Gary Berg, St. Elmo Lynn Rohrscheib, Fairmount David Wessel, Chandlerville AMERICAN SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION (ASA) Stan Born, Mahomet Daryl Cates, Columbia, ASA President Jered Hooker, Clinton Jim Martin, Pontiac Bill Raben, Ridgway Rob Shaffer, El Paso Roberta Simpson-Dolbeare, Nebo Bill Wykes, Yorkville
DIRECTORS Ryan Frieders, Waterman | District 1 Buck Hill, Grand Ridge | District 4 Mark Read, Putnam | District 5 Jim Martin, Pontiac | District 6 STAFF CREDITS Publisher | Michael Whitmer Managing Editor | Betsy Osman Staff Contributor | Olivia Key Staff Contributor | Brynna Sentel Staff Contributor | Corey Lacey Staff Contributor | Collin Cisco OTHER ISA STAFF Chief Executive Officer | John Lumpe Director of Operations | Dustin Scott Director of Market Development | Todd Main Director of Finance | Kati Owen Director of Government Relations & Strategy | Andrew Larson Director of Agronomy | Abigail Peterson Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG) is owner of Illinois Field & Bean, a publication for Illinois soybean farmers, designed and written to provide timely and useful industry information. Illinois Field & Bean is published by the Illinois Soybean Association, 1108 Trinity Lane, Bloomington, IL, 61704. For address corrections, contact Illinois Field & Bean at 1108 Trinity Lane, Bloomington, IL, 61704. Phone 309-663-7692. Web address: www.ilsoy.org. Email: ilsoy@ilsoy.org. Comments and statewide news articles should be sent to the above address. Advertising space reservations must be made by the first of the month preceding publication. In consideration of the acceptance of advertisement, the agency and the advertiser must, in respect of the contents of the advertisement, indemnify and save the publisher harmless against any expense arising from claims or actions against the publisher because of the publication of the content of the advertisement. FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION Michael Whitmer Publisher Email: michael.whitmer@ilsoy.org
4 November 2023
DWAYNE ANDERSON | ASSISTANT SECRETARY-TREASURER | ILLINOIS SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION
From Foreign Business Partners to First-Name Friends Over the years, my service on the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Board of Directors has provided me with numerous opportunities to bridge the gap between Illinois soybean farmers and international customers. One of the most enriching experiences has been welcoming international teams to my farm in Henry County. These visits have not only allowed us to showcase the exceptional quality and efficiency of soybean production in Illinois but have also fostered unique bonds between Illinois farmers and our global customers. Illinois has long been recognized as a powerhouse in soybean production, and our state's farmers take great pride in their ability to cultivate high-quality soybeans, thanks to our fertile soil, advanced farming techniques, and cutting-edge technology. Hosting international teams on our farms gives us the perfect opportunity to showcase these strengths. When visitors from countries across Asia, South America, and Europe step onto our Illinois soil, they witness firsthand the hard work that goes into producing soybeans. They see how we utilize modern technology, such as precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices, to ensure the highest yields while minimizing environmental impact. This instills confidence in the quality of our soybeans while also highlighting our commitment to ensuring our farms remain productive for years to come. Perhaps the most significant reward of hosting international teams is the lasting friendships that develop. The bonds forged during their visits often extend far beyond their time on our farm. We've been fortunate to visit our international friends in their home countries, further strengthening our relationships and understanding of global agriculture. During these visits, conversations are not limited to the fields; they extend to our lives, families, and communities. We learn about the challenges and opportunities faced by our international guests in their own agricultural pursuits. In addition to building personal connections, these visits also serve as a crucial trust-building exercise. When international customers see the transparency and dedication that defines Illinois soybean farms, it reinforces their confidence in our product. They return home with firsthand knowledge of the origin and quality of the soybeans they purchase, which can make a significant difference in their decision-making processes. Furthermore, by fostering connections between Illinois soybean farmers and global buyers, we play a role in alleviating global food insecurity. Soybeans are a critical source of protein for both humans and livestock, and ensuring a steady supply of high-quality soybeans helps to address global food challenges. When we facilitate these relationships and share our agricultural expertise, we contribute to the well-being of people worldwide. Welcoming international buyers allows us to showcase the excellence of soybean production in Illinois while creating bonds and building trust with our international customers. Through these connections, we not only boost our local economy but also contribute to global food security. We look forward to continuing this journey of learning, growth, and friendship with Illinois soy’s global customers.
