National Service Day One
Monday, March 13, 2023
Submitted by: Regan Reif
As we began our first full day in Washington DC, Sarah Henry opened the morning by introducing our first speaker of the day, Mike Torrey, Founder and Principal of the Torrey Advisory Group (previously known as Michael Torrey Associates). Mike graciously hosted our KARL Class XVI and presenters in his office building.
KARL Class XVI’s first day in DC was packed full of information. I’ve done my best to summarize highlights below from the 8 amazing presentations we heard. It’s also important to note how touching it was to hear from so many Kansans doing remarkable work for our state, country, and the world. To say we had an incredibly inspiring group of speakers on Monday is an understatement.
Key highlights from Mike Torrey’s presentation:
– Mike grew up south of Wamego. He worked at Kansas Grain and Feed early in his career. He moved to DC, back to Kansas, and then returned to DC. He found his “sweet spot” at the intersection of food and ag policy. In 2005, among many personal/life changes, he “stepped off the cliff” to start his own business as a lobby firm, but does non-lobbyist work too. His consulting firm serves all those involved in the supply chain, and he believes it is critical to break down silos between different groups. His business is now known as Torrey Advisory Group.
– We must challenge ourselves to think of multi-century ideas. Right now, we have so much data and ideas coming to us that we focus on the most immediate future. There is a technology gap between all the data we now have access to and what to do with it. In the space between technology and research, many answers can be found. Leaders need to take the time to think about 100-year ideas. Rural and ag should be proud of our heritage and stability—consider the Kansas Grain and Feed Association and Kansas Livestock Association’s long histories.
– Washington DC and what happens there are very important. Understanding how DC works makes you better at your job/life at home. Additionally, it’s critical to make sure young people understand the importance of DC.
– Everything has a lobbyist. If you don’t tell your story, others will tell it for you. If you are telling your story to a decision maker, make sure you have also worked the story out with those who disagree—seek agreement!
– To be the most effective, don’t worry about who gets the credit. So much more can happen when who receives the credit isn’t a concern for those involved.
– Regarding government spending, keep in mind that the last time Congress passed all appropriation bills on time was 1989. The last budget they agreed upon was in 1995.
– There seems to be a shift in politics. It no longer feels like the goal is to win an argument but rather how you can put your opponent “in jail” or get a few minutes of fame. You must be engaged because so much data and information are available. ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! The last two elections came down to 3 states—Wisconsin in both elections.
– In reflecting upon his career, he explained striving for excellence versus success and would encourage us to do the same. Excellence is being the very best and takes much more time, risk, and work. Success is typically measured by numbers, year-end results or goals being met. It is short-term.
James Glueck and Tara Smith from Torrey Advisory group presented a presentation on Farm Bill 101. Key highlights:
– While there are numerous policies that impact the agriculture sector, we must be realistic about which ones are part of the actual farm bill conversation because of jurisdictions. Leaders working on the Farm Bill try to keep lines very clear and be very respectful about what’s in their space and what is not, so other committees return that respect.
– The farm bill is reauthorized every 5 years and is the primary driver of federal farm and food policy. It addresses a range of issues across 10+ titles. The first Farm Bill, which is permanent law, was part of the New Deal for farmers in 1933.
– It’s the people that make the policy. Be aware of who leads the Senate and House Ag Committees. There has been significant turnover as several senior players from both parties have retired since the last Farm Bill. Many current members haven’t been part of a Farm Bill conversation. However, we should be encouraged as there has been some good bi-partisan efforts such as re-signing pesticides.
– So much has happened over the past 5 years since the last Farm Bill—some examples include: government spending, the war in Ukraine, disaster assistance, COVID-19 pandemic impacts, climate change/weather, production costs and inflation, trade challenges and supply chain disruptions.
– Speaking specifically of crop insurance, it is permanent law. High commodity prices mean a “more” expensive crop insurance program. Crop insurance is the second most expensive title after nutrition which creates a target because of the large budget number. Support for and opposition to crop insurance are bipartisan, although the importance of the program is now understood well by both parties and from elected officials from all parts of the country. They stressed that we must preserve and protect this title.
– There are two newer discussions happening regarding the intersections of climate and crop insurance and crop insurance and disaster assistance.
– The 2019 Farm Bill was $867B. The 2024 Farm Bill is expected to be approximately $1.5T.
– While the Farm Bill addresses topics it does not guarantee implementation by the USDA. It is common that some parts of a Farm Bill do not get implemented prior to the new Farm Bill.
– COVID highlighted food security issues with bare grocery store shelves and inflation.
– Programs need to be adaptable! Not all programs are practical. Navigate away from one-size-fits-all programs specifically related to cover crop and climate issues.
– Think through technology and innovation solutions to help alleviate some labor issues from a Farm Bill standpoint.
Sarah Little and Amber Kirchoefer presented on the process of building a national memorial, specifically The Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial. Key highlights:
– The importance of relationships cannot be discounted. Ted Stevens (Alaska) and Danny Inouye (Hawaii) were WWII veterans and friends.
– The process for the memorial began in 1999. The groundbreaking occurred in 2017. The process to build monuments is significant and often has controversy and delays. This is not unique to the Eisenhower Memorial.
– Famed architect, Frank Gehry, designed the memorial which went through several design changes over time.
– Pat Roberts becomes the Commission Chair in 2015 and things progress. When Bob Dole is brought on-board, he is instrumental in gaining the support needed.
– The groundbreaking happened in 2017. The memorial’s dedication was initially scheduled for the 75th anniversary of V Day on May 8, 2020, but was postponed to September 17, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
– In addition to major supporters, foreign countries also donated to the Eisenhower Memorial (example: Taiwan).
Rod Snyder, Senior Ag Advisor to EPA Administration, presentation key highlights:
– Rod has spent the last 20 years in the ag sector; however, he only recently joined the government sector in Fall 2021. His position is a political appointment by President Biden’s administration. This ag advisor role was created approx. 25 years ago to help foster the EPA/ag connection and provided a direct line to the food/ag sector.
– Rod’s boss is Michael Regan, EPA Administrator. Administrator Regan wanted to go to rural Kansas and toured a rural school and family farms.
– Rod’s time is spent mainly on the tough or “prickly” issues such as pesticide policy, water policy and issues, bio-fuels policy, livestock issues and rural-focused issues. His philosophy is to follow the science and follow the law.
– Think through how in mid-century we will need to feed 10B people with the same or less land (urbanization). We must be able to feed the global population and need to bring technology and innovation to scale.
Gregg Doud – VP Global Situational Awareness and Chief Economist for Aimpoint Research / Former Ag Chief Negotiator for President Trump. Presentation key highlights:
– Gregg is from Mankato, Kansas originally. He has been in DC for 30 years. Gregg was an incredible speaker and shared many stories from his career with us.
– The most important chart, in Gregg’s opinion, is the price of hogs in China as half the pigs in the world are in China. Also, continue watching the price of tallow which is now being used in aviation fuel.
– It is critical we understand “How do we feed 9B people in ~2050?” We are going to use tech and we should not apologize for it.
– Recommended reading:
o Farmers vs. Foodies by Ray Starling
o Never Give an Inch by Mike Pompeo
o Peter Zion books
– “Kill the chickens to scare the monkeys” is a metaphor to the regulatory system in China
– China bought $18B of protein last year. This is the first time that China is allowing GMO crops to be grown.
– Historic that this year the USDA will report that Brazil will export more corn (50M tons) than the USA (49M tons) to China. Two huge factors: African swine fever and the war in Ukraine.
– Trade agreements aren’t economic; they are mostly geo-political.
– Learn to use silence! It can be an invaluable tool during negotiations.
– The USA is not liberal and conservative. It is city-folks and non-city-folks as Dr. Barry Flinchbaugh taught. There are many more city folks, so figure out how to effectively lobby them. As Dr. Flinchbaugh said, “practice the politics of the minority.”
Mike Seyfert, President and CEO, National Grain and Feed Association, presentation key highlights:
– Mike grew up in Minneapolis, Kansas. He was an intern and staffer for Sen. Roberts. He has been in Washington DC for 27-28 years.
– Ag is a “small town” whether you’re in Kansas or in Washington DC.
– Key issues/happenings for National Grain and Feed Association:
o Shipping, transportation, logistics, infrastructure—war in Ukraine, rail strikes, Mississippi River issues/drought
o Snake River in Pacific Northwest
o IIJB infrastructure bill; race against other countries who are quickly upgrading all infrastructure
o Relationship with China as the #1 ag export relationship; their population tipped for the first time in 2022.
o Sustainability/climate … The consumer is changing and therefore we must have discussions, even when the discussions are hard.
– Ag is still very bipartisan by nature. Don’t look at leaders as Republicans or Democrats, but rather as Aggies and be sure to connect with them from rural and/or ag standpoint.
– While in DC, don’t forget to pause and remember where you are. Step back and think about the people, debates, and decisions that have taken place in these hallways and rooms.
Terri Moore, VP of Communications, American Farm Bureau Federation, presentation highlights:
– Communicate the “why” to make sure people understand it.
– Ag waited to tell our side of the sustainability conversation and now others have shaped the narrative. We are now having to win it back.
– The words we choose are important. You can say the same thing but use different words—profitable vs economic sustainability.
– To gain trust your messenger must be authentic. They can use facts, figures, and data, but communicating values is 3 to 5 times more impactful than data. Therefore, conveying values should be front-of-mind in communication. Establishing shared values creates trust.
– We live in a land of misinformation and disinformation which is scary. If those distorting the message have gained trust, it will be tough to win them over.
– 2% of the US population is involved in agriculture. We should not expect the general population to understand ag. Keep this in mind when communicating with others and don’t use jargon.
– Communicate shared values in ag…don’t rely on the science and economics. There are different ways to communicate shared values.
o Food
o Animals
o Environment
o People
– Listen to understand and engage without judgement. You must understand others’ perspective. Remain committed to doing the right thing.
– #StillFarming was AFBF’s most effective marketing campaign during COVID when consumers’ trust dipped due to empty store shelves. It remains hugely effective to this day.
– Video is a critical marketing tool—even cell phone videos. The cell phone video sometimes feels more credible than a produced video because of the speaker’s authenticity.
– 76% of Americans trust farmers and ranchers to care for the environment. Imagine what happens when we amplify our message.
– In research regarding the Farm Bill, they tested removing the nutrition program. It would be much more difficult to pass the Farm Bill if this happened. If another bill was created without including the nutrition program in it, the other plan/bill would probably not pass.
Jon Hixson, Chief Sustainability Officer and VP of Global Government Affairs at Yum! Brands presentation highlights:
– Native Kansan from WaKeeney. Jon was a staffer and worked on Capitol Hill. He then went to Cargill where he spent 12 years in the US and 3 years in Southeast Asia. Jon returned to DC to work in government affairs. He is a “global wanderer in the food market.” He has now worked for Yum! for 6 years. This is his first experience for a publicly traded company. YUM opens approximately 11 restaurants every day around the world.
– Trust model… authenticity, reliability, and orientation (yourself and/or community) … What you live/do and how you do it.
– RED: relevant, easy, distinctive
– Stay “on culture.” US producers must engage and be relevant. When we share our values, they resonate with the public.
– As an industry we need to get better about talking about the “why” in the simplest form.
– There is power in collaboration of leadership’s voice. We have power—especially as a group. We must champion/support/bounce ideas off other leaders.
– Yum is currently opening the most restaurants in Asia. KFC is their most global restaurant.
– Regarding the conversation of fast food vs. nutritious food, Yum! intentionally doesn’t have kids’ meals. (Salt, fat, sugar = the eye of the storm in public health.)
Monday was definitely a jam-packed first day in DC filled with incredible presenters and information. The expertise these speakers shared with us was remarkable. It was also special because so many of the speakers call Kansas home. After wrapping up these inspiring presentations, our class traveled to the Fish Market in Alexandria, Virginia, and enjoyed a great evening of fellowship.
National Service Day Two
Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Submitted by: Travis Graber
Class XVI started day two in Washington, DC, at the USDA building. For the morning session, we combined with the ag rural leadership groups from four other states – Virginia, Kentucky, Washington, and New Mexico.
Dr. Basil Gooden – Director of State Operations for Rural Development
– The group was welcomed and hosted by Dr. Basil Gooden. He spoke briefly about his time in the Virginia Agriculture Leaders program and how it helped him immensely by providing exposure to new areas related to the agriculture industry. He is a native Virginian, where he and his family still own and operate a farm where they raise black angus beef cattle.
Xochitl Torres Small – Under Secretary for Rural Development
– As with other speakers, Ms. Torres Small discussed the USDA’s focus on rural America and how the future for Agriculture is forging opportunity where we live. She wants people to be able to do the work they love in a place they love.
– The financial aspect is difficult for many producers. Despite net profits for agriculture last year, half of producers operate in the red, and a high percentage of producers rely on off-farm income.
– Ms. Torres Small’s vision: supporting innovation that’s already happening. Allowing farms to get a greater share of the $1 for their product so they can reinvest that in rural America.
Dr. Jewel H. Bronaugh – former Deputy Secretary of Agriculture
– Dr. Bronaugh has a background in education and extension work. She taught a vocational class in high school, then when into extension work, was a college dean, worked for the FSA, and was then a state commissioner of Ag. Through her career, she found a passion for working with young people and developing the next generation of leaders.
– When Dr. Bronaugh joined the USDA as the Deputy Secretary of Ag, she knew that equity would be a big part of her work. She was confident though that there’s an opportunity for every producer at the table.
– She noted a couple challenges she sees for the USDA: 1) how funding/resources are given out and how to make it more equitable, and 2) funding for extension programs.
– As with others, Dr. Bronaugh discussed some leadership advice. She mentioned something she gained from participating in a leadership program was her ability to create and articulate a vision. She was adamant that professionals need to think about work-life balance and how we may have to learn to say no at times. For her, the biggest no’s were in the evenings. Boundaries are sometimes needed for self-preservation.
Zach Ducheneaux – Administrator, USDA Farm Service Agency
– Mr. Ducheneaux has a ranching background in South Dakota and previously held the position of Executive Director of the Intertribal Ag Council.
– He discussed how the USDA/FSA has room to grow in how Ag finance is done. He mentioned the farm ownership portfolio operates at a negative and helps pay down debt. He provided the recent statistic that 85% of FSA loans didn’t have default. His goal is to ensure folks have the best opportunity and put an offer on the table to help them.
– Mr. Ducheneaux explained that his leadership philosophy resembles elements of horsemanship – awareness, empathy, and presentation. Additionally, he always tries to continue learning and he never takes no for an answer. Mr. Ducheneaux adamantly believes that the status quo is fully responsible for what we have now. However, he reminded the group that we can’t persecute those that hold on to the status quo. It is important to show challenges with the status quo and offer solutions.
Robert Bonnie – Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation
– Mr. Bonnie was raised on a farm, where he was inclined to think about conservation practices. With the focus on conservation, he is also concentrated on making sure land is economically viable so it can stay in agriculture.
– He offered some leadership advice to the group – he’s learned that you get nothing done alone and that building teams, support, and stakeholders is important.
Sanah Baig – Deputy Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics
– Ms. Baig echoed Mr. Bonnie comments by mentioning that new opportunities need to be built so that most can profit in Agriculture. Work through state research and extension groups is an important part of this. The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) work to together to advance research in agriculture related sciences. In addition, the USDA is partnering around the world on Ag innovation.
– Other core focuses of the USDA are increasing the protein supply chain (all types) and food waste issues.
– Ms. Baig also offered some leadership advice to the group –
• Figure out your superpower and find ways to bring people around you that balance out your strengths.
• What is your north star? What is your mission?
• Sharpen your written communication skills.
• Listen to understand and learn, not to respond.
• Invest in building relationships.
• How you treat people matters more than anything.
National Service Day Three
Wednesday, March 15, 2023
Submitted by: Luke Amend
Our KARL class started our third day in Washington DC at the Government Accountability Office. There we were joined by other IAPAL programs from the states of Kentucky, New Mexico, Virginia, and Washington. Tiffany (Washington program) introduced the first speaker Robyn Colosimo, Director of Policy and Legislation to the Assistant Secretary US Army for Civil Works. Robyn explained what is the Army for Civil Works and how they collaborate with the Army Corps of Engineers. The office consists of 2 presidential appointees who oversee approximately 40,000 employees who build and maintain public infrastructure.
Robyn then introduced her superior Michael Conner, Assistant Secretary US Army for Civil Works. Mr. Conner told us the story that led him to his current position. He has a law degree from the University of Colorado Law School, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from New Mexico State University. Following work in private industry for several years, he held several governmental positions including the Deputy Secretary of the Interior, where he was the Chief Operating Officer during the Obama administration. In 2020, while aiding President Biden’s administration, he was asked to enter into his current role as Assistant Secretary US Army for Civil Works. Mr. Conner explained that his role is to “coordinate and advance The President’s vision and the Corps mission”. The five areas that were discussed were:
1. Upgrading waterways and ports that aid in the transportation goods
2. Building climate resilient infrastructure
3. Modernizing programs and operations within the US Army for Civil Works civil works office
4. Utilizing science and technology in their research and development
5. Strengthening partnerships through improved communication
Mr. Jaime A. Pinkham, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works spoke next. Mr. Pinkham received forestry degrees from Oregon State University and Peninsula Community college in Port Angeles, Washington. Since we were joined by the Washington IAPAL program, Mr. Pinkham presented a donation to Peninsula College (his alma mater). Prior to his current appointment, Mr. Pinkham served on tribal commissions and multiple foundations. He is parts of the Nez Perce Tribe. He proudly relayed stories of his efforts in advocating for tribal sovereignty, self- determination, and treaty rights. He discussed how his background strengthened his “leadership journey”. He told us “we all bring our own history and perspective” and encouraged us to “see yourself and other things differently”. The main tasks that he is currently working on are:
1. Improving navigating channels
2. Rehabilitation of the Rio Grande waterway
3. Critical mineral permitting
4. National security issues
Our time at the Government Accountability Office was closed by Robyn Colosimo. She discussed her history and how she almost entered the construction industry as a project manager, but changed her mind and went back to school. She discussed several other examples of how “none of my career was by design”. She encouraged us “don’t be too strict, be flexible”.
Next, we were off to United States Capital Building. At the US Capital Visitor’s Center our KARL class was divided into two groups. Anna (from Shawnee Kansas) and Nick (from California) were our tour guides. Both Anna and Nick were college students that were completing an internship at the Capital. During our tour we discovered:
1. Construction of the U.S. Capitol began in 1793. The original building was finished in 1826.
2. The largest addition to the Capitol is the Capitol Visitor Center. It was completed in 2008.
3. The bronze Statue of Freedom (located on the top of Capital Building) is 19½ feet tall and weighs 15,000 pounds. The 13 stars on the statue represent the original 13 colonies.
4. A tomb (The Capital Crypt) was built for the remains of George Washington. It is a circular room below the Rotunda. President Washington specified that he wished to be buried at his home at Mount Vernon, and his wish was honored.
5. There are 100 statues in the building (2 for each state). There are 11 statues of women in the building. Amelia Earhart and President Eisenhower are the two that honor the State of Kansas. Hellen Keller’s statue is the only statue that is allowed to be touched (so the visually impaired can experience it).
6. The Supreme Court met in the building in 1860. Law apprentices would sit behind a half-wall that separated the room. This half-wall was also called “the bar”. Once they had become lawyers, they were allowed on the other side of the bar. This was the origination of the term “passing the bar”.
7. The Rotunda is the large, domed, circular room located in the center of The Capitol building. There are eight framed paintings on the walls (four of the revolutionary period and four of early exploration). The highest portion of the dome is made from cast iron. Cast iron was used so that this portion of the roof would be fire proof. The fresco painting located just below the windows was painted to give the illusion of a sculpted relief although it is in reality flat.
8. Statuary Hall was previously the House of Representatives. It includes President Lincoln’s desk and the two Lincoln pillars (where the President was often seen leaning). The shape and acoustics of this room provided an acoustical effect where in some spots a person speaking many yards away could be heard clearly. It’s reported that John Quincy Adams utilized this acoustic effect to communicate.
We ended our Capital tour with a picture between the statues of President Reagan and President Eisenhower.
Next, we navigated the multiple hallways, stairs, and even a small railcar as we traveled to the Senate building for a meeting with US Senator for Kansas, Jerry Moran. The Senator’s chief of staff James Kelly introduced other staff members and explained the roles they fulfill for Senator Moran. Senator Moran spoke about the future of rural Kansas and the importance of:
1. Agriculture (including the 2023 Farm Bill approval)
2. Healthcare
3. Access to technology, especially high speed internet
4. Transportation infrastructure
5. Education
Senator Moran spoke about the current relationship between the democratic and republican parties. He said “we have become two teams. Beat the other team versus making a positive change”. He discussed
the negative effect that social media has had on politics. After answering several questions, he thanked us for being a part of KARL and encouraged us to stay involved in our communities, saying “nothing happens without people stepping up and taking action” and “we don’t need more politicians, we need more citizens”.
Our last meeting of the day was with our respective state representatives. We walked to their offices located in the Rayburn House Office Building. The Representatives were not in session but meeting with their staff members still allowed KARL class members to talk about current issues in their respective regions of Kansas.
· Tracey Mann’s staff members (district KS-01) met with 15 KARL class members
· Jake LaTurner’s staff members (district KS-02) met with 4 KARL class members
· Sharice Davids’s staff members (district KS-03) met with 1 KARL class member
· Ron Estes’s staff members (district KS-04) met with 10 KARL class members
Following this day of meetings, we boarded a motor coach bus and traveled to two hours to the Gettysburg Hotel in Gettysburg Pennsylvania. We were greeted by John Regetin and other faculty of the Gettysburg Leadership Experience.
For more on Class XVI’s Gettysburg Leadership Experience, click here.
