“The U.S. Grains Council’s strength has always been rooted in the commitment and contributions of its members,” said USGC President and CEO Tom Sleight.

“That is evident when you look at the six members we are honoring this year at the 11th International Marketing Conference and 54th Annual Membership Meeting in Long Beach, Calif., for five years of service.”

The honorees – David Howell of the Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Frank Kralicek of the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, John Mages from the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, Jerry Main from the Iowa Corn Growers Association, Gary Porter of the Missouri Corn Growers Association, and Charles Ring of the Texas Corn Producers Board – have provided outstanding leadership during their five years as delegates in their Council work.

All six have served on advisory teams. In addition, Howell, Kralicek and Ring have represented U.S. growers, speaking to customers at outlook conferences and grain management workshops, and Howell has hosted a China corn study team on his farm.

USGC missions took Ring to China and Japan in 2007 and Howell to Colombia in 2012 to promote implementation of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement. Both men currently serve as at-large directors on the Council’s board of directors.

“In addition to all these specific examples, they are leaders who provide guidance that is essential, guidance that helps us serve our U.S. growers more effectively and build export markets that benefit both growers and customers,” Sleight said.

“This is a great opportunity to thank them. It’s also a chance to look forward to their continued leadership with the Council and the rewards that can bring.”