Volume 7, Number 7 - October 26, 2001

AAGIWA has signed a contract with the Monte Carlo Resort in Las Vegas locking in January 20-23 for the annual meeting. Now that we have a commitment to the Monte Carlo decisions must be made sooner rather than later. There is the potential for significant savings to the Association and it's members if we can provide a guaranteed number of attendees. As of this date the response from members planning to attend is only 10% of last year's registration total. Please make the decision today to attend this meeting and contact Greg Hoelck at 402/462-4254. The Association will be mailing further details and registration information obtained from the Monte Carlo.

The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration announced that nominations are being sought for persons to serve on GIPSA's Grain Inspection Advisory Committee. Nominations are being accepted for persons to replace the five members and the five alternate members whose terms will expire in March 2002. Completed forms must be received by GIPSA no later than November 30, 2001. AAGIWA President Tim Adams is currently a Board Member. The next Advisory Committee meeting will be held December 4-5 at the Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.

Paul Weller was diagnosed two weeks ago with a brain hematoma and went in for surgery. Andrea Ball says he is expected to make a full recovery after a period of rest and recuperation. His office said today (Monday October 23rd) that he is already anxious to get back to work. Anyone wanting to send get-well wishes should address them to Paul Weller, 3411 Raymond Street, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815.

Jim Baker is running for Congress in the 2nd Congressional District of Arkansas. He would like AAGIWA's support in his effort. We would like to place him on a retainer to do consulting work for us until the election. Rather than use AAGIWA funds for this purpose, we are proposing that individual agencies contribute for his services. Our goal is to raise a monthly retainer of $1,000. Please let the Association know if your agency can contribute towards this fund. Jim Baker has been a real friend to our Association. We would like to return the favor and at the same time help to put him in a position to continue to help our cause.