March 3, 1999

Illinois Ag Leadership Program - National Travel

Washington D.C.

WORLDWIDE TERRORISM AND NUCLEAR PROLIFERATION WERE PRESENTED WEDNESDAY MORNING

John Spiegal, (left) Office of  the Coordinator for Counter Terrorism, discussed the U.S. policy on terrorism. Included were updates on 30 foreign terrorist organizations. Statistics provided by John showed that in 1998 there were fewer incidents but more deaths.  Conversely, abuse and manipulation due to religion has increased.

Christian Kessler, Senior Advisor of Political-Military Affairs provided insight into the nuclear armament concerns of the Mideast, Asiatic, and former Soviet Union.

LAHOOD CONTINUES TO BE A STRONG PROPONENT FOR AGRICULTURE

The Honorable Ray Lahood - U.S. Representative (R-Peoria) (right) provided our lunch presentation. Representative LaHood shared his concern on the economic state of Agriculture. He reaffirmed his commitment to the Freedom to Farm Legislation and would continue to push for the 218 votes needed to pass Fast Track. Congressman LaHood recently introduced a bill to encourage the EPA to use sound science when evaluating agricultural products and research .  Lunch was provided by the American Crop Protection Association.

GMO'S WILL BE ACCEPTED IN TIME SAYS GLOY

Dr. Gerhard Gloy, Counselor of Agricultural Affairs, (left) welcomed the Illinois Agriculture Leadership - Class of 2000 to the German Embassy. Dr. Gloy explained the purposes of the embassy and provided the European view on trade disagreements. The population density in Germany is 270 people per sq./mile and environmental concerns are much more pronounced concerning food production. Education of the consumers will be required, a time consuming process. Dr. Gloy is pictured receiving a gift from chairman Tim Harris.

David Thompson, Assistant to the Speaker for Planning , discussed the ascension of Dennis Hastert to the Speaker of the House and the accompanying responsibilities