We'd Like to Mention

By Gregg Hillyer, Progressive Farmer Editor In Chief

No one needs reminding that 2019 has been a challenging year. Nearly every farmer who I've talked to throughout the growing season is anxious to put this year behind him and start fresh in 2020.

We can help you get a head start on the new year at the DTN Ag Summit. This year's theme, "Seize Opportunities: Winning Strategies to Overcome Obstacles," has never been more relevant to the future of your farming business. We'll gather at the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park Hotel, in Chicago, Dec. 9 through 11. Get the complete agenda at www.dtnagsummit.com. For more details, or if you have questions, call 888-576-9881 or email teri.thiele@dtn.com.

As cohost of agriculture's premier producer-focused business conference, we've put together an exceptional lineup of speakers who you won't find at other conferences. Highlights include:

> David Horsager is the CEO of the Trust Edge Leadership Institute and a best-selling author. He advises Fortune 500 businesses and organizations from around the world. Horsager will explain how top leaders build and maintain trusted partners in an ever-changing business environment, and use that trust to gain faster results, deeper relationships and a more profitable enterprise.

> Doug Tatum uses his insights about the economy and business to help guide companies through the challenges brought on by growth. His book, "No Man's Land," provides invaluable lessons for any business and entrepreneur.

> As chief economist for John Deere, Luke Chandler has both a national and global perspective on the economic factors that influence agriculture. He will explain how growing uncertainty is creating an increasingly competitive environment for farmers everywhere.

> DTN lead analyst Todd Hultman and senior agriculture meteorologist Bryce Anderson will tag team to present their overviews and outlooks for grain prices and weather for the 2020 growing season. This is always a can't miss session at Summit.

> The 2020 Class of America's Best Young Farmers and Ranchers will be announced during a special luncheon and will also be part of a panel to address how they identify opportunity to build a strong foundation for their fledgling operations.

Attendees can also select from several breakout sessions covering topics on recruiting/retaining employees, grain marketing, managing stress, outsourcing your farm's financials, crop modeling, creating new profit enterprises and building your farm's brand.

In addition, you can learn about the latest products, programs and services from the event's sponsors during the Monday morning profit sessions. And, of course, there will be plenty of time to network and meet peers from across the nation.

Planning to arrive early to Chicago? Join us Sunday afternoon (Dec. 8) for two optional workshops. "Controlling the Controllable for Farming Success" is being moderated by Don Tyler, of Beck Ag. He will explain how multigenerational farming operations can positively use stressors to communicate effectively and maintain a successful business environment.

The second optional workshop, "Agriculture of Tomorrow," is open to both ag retailers/businesses and farmers. Sessions will look at blockchain, grain-marketing tools and technology that is transforming agriculture.

Registration is open. Sign up before Nov. 25, and you'll receive the discounted rate of $595. Groups of four or more receive an additional $50 discount per person.

See you in Chicago!

Write Editor in Chief Gregg Hillyer, 2204 Lakeshore Dr., Suite 415, Birmingham, AL 35209, or email gregg.hillyer@dtn.com.

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