Missouri Corn Sweeps National Membership Awards; Thiel Named Top Recruiter

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)–Local corn farmer Billy Thiel of Malta Bend, Mo., was recognized as the Top National Recruiter for the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) during the organization’s awards banquet at the 2012 Commodity Classic in Nashville, Tenn., March 2. Thiel, president of the Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA), earned the top honors through his efforts in recruiting members in the Show-Me State.

“I’m glad growers are realizing the value in being a member of the Missouri Corn Growers Association,” noted Thiel. “We’ve got a bigger voice when there is group of people standing together. And it’s helping. The more growers we have join, the more help we have moving our industry forward. All the things we do are adding up to bigger accomplishments.”

In 2011 Thiel recruited members by hosting a golf tournament, membership event and reaching out to stakeholders in the state’s six farmer-owned ethanol plants. In addition to being named Recruiter of the Year, Thiel was also inducted into the NCGA Recruiter Hall of Fame, an honor bestowed on individuals who have excelled in recruiting new corn grower members. Thiel is only the second Missouri corn grower to receive this prestigious recognition.

The Missouri Corn Growers Association was also recognized for achieving the highest numeric increase and largest percentage increase in membership among the 28 NCGA-affiliated states in 2011. MCGA membership increased by 479 members in 2011, up 29 percent from the previous year.

“We couldn’t be any prouder of Billy and our entire Missouri Corn board and staff,” said Gary Marshall, Missouri Corn CEO. “Being recognized not only once, but four times at the national level was a historic moment for our organization. The awards for highest numeric increase, highest percentage increase, top national recruiter and Billy’s induction into the Recruiter Hall of Fame – it’s just outstanding. This recognition is an indication of the dedication and enthusiasm invested on behalf of Missouri corn farmers.”

MCGA is comprised of over 2,000 members dedicated to growing and defending the corn industry. To learn more about Missouri Corn, or to become a member, visit www.mocorn.org or call (800) 827-4181.

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Photo Caption: National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Garry Niemeyer (left) presents Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) President Billy Thiel (right) with the award for highest numeric increase in membership among NCGA-affiliated states. Thiel accepted the award on behalf of MCGA during the NCGA Awards banquet at the 2012 Commodity Classic in Nashville, Tenn.

Photo Credit: Missouri Corn Growers Association

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Photo Caption: The Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) was recognized Friday, March 2, during the National Corn Growers Association Awards Banquet for earning the top numeric and percentage membership increases of any NCGA-affiliated states. MCGA President Billy Thiel was also named top national recruiter and inducted into the NCGA Recruiter Hall of Fame. Pictured (l-r) MCGA Director of Operations and Grower Services Gary Wheeler, MCGA President Billy Thiel of Malta Bend, Mo., and MCGA CEO Gary Marshall.

Photo Credit: Missouri Corn Growers Association

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