Podcast: Farmers in Japan to promote U.S. beef, discuss grain donation program

In this podcast, Steve Nelson, a farmer from Schuyler and member of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, talks about a mission to Japan several individuals from Nebraska were on to promote U.S. beef but also to visit a portion of Japan that was devastated by the earthquake and tsunami earlier this year.

{NOTE: This podcast was recorded while the team was in Japan. For more on the mission, click here.}

The mission was initiated and supported by the Nebraska Corn Board and conducted in partnership with the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

Two Nebraska farmers on the mission were Bill Schuster and John Willoughby, Nelson said, noting that they were instrumental in getting the Nebraska Corn Growers grain donation program up and running. The program allows farmers to donate grain to the Red Cross at any Aurora Cooperative or CPI location. The grain is then sold and money goes directly to help Red Cross efforts in Japan.
"So far, more than $60,000 have been raised, which is just tremendous," Nelson said, "but don’t forget donations can be made through the end of July."

Nelson said a ceremonial check presentation to the Red Cross is being planned for the Nebraska State Fair on Sunday, September 4, so be sure to mark that day on your calendar.


He also noted other needs of the Red Cross, as it supports many relief efforts right here in Nebraska. From blood donations to help with the flooding, the Red Cross can use your support. Just contact a local office to see how you can help.

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