FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Septemper 1, 2006

CONTACT: Becky Grisham, Missouri Corn Growers Association, (573) 893-4181

MISSOURI CORN GROWERS ASSOCIATION ENDORSES IKE SKELTON

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) -- In recognition of nearly 30 years of service to Missouri's corn farmers, the Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) today announced the endorsement of Congressman Ike Skelton (MO-04) for the 2006 general election.

"Every time there is an issue important to Missouri's corn farmers, Ike has been there, standing beside us, representing our interests," says Billy Thiel, MCGA board member, corn farmer from Marshall, Mo., and constituent of the Fourth Congressional District. "He is a true champion for the interests of rural Missouri and agriculture."

"Ike understands the strategic need for improved national security and knows in the importance of fostering our country's ethanol industry to enable farmers to grow our rural economies and bring us closer to energy independence, " Thiel goes on to say. "We can always count on Ike and his staff to be open, accessible and proactive in addressing the needs of farmers. This endorsement for re-election is simply an extension of our long-standing partnership and respect."

Over the past three decades, Congressman Skelton has remained committed to the well-being of farm families that make up a majority of his district. A strong advocate for ethanol, river transportation, drought assistance and his unwavering support on a myriad of other corn grower issues over the years contributed to MCGA's endorsement.

In addition, Congressman Skelton had to meet the strict criteria established by the association's board of directors, a governing body comprised of 13 corn farmers from across the state. In order to receive MCGA endorsement, candidates must meet the following:

• Only candidates for US Congress are eligible for endorsement.
• Candidates must serve at least 12 years in elected state and federal public service.
• Must be a past MCGA Public Servant award winner.
• Must have a 100 percent past-voting record on selected corn issues.
• Must have a face-to-face meeting with Public Policy Committee or MCGA board.
• Must be approved by a 100 percent vote of Public Policy Committee.
• Super majority or 80 percent vote by the entire board in order to support.