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Market Matters Blog 04/25 13:20
Industry Still Seeks Clarification on Implementing SOLAS VGM Amendment
Will There be a Second Harvest of 2015 Crop?
Canadian Pacific Ceases Pursuit of Norfolk Southern Railroad
NGFA Hosts Seminars on 'Far-Reaching' New Feed Safety Rules
A Closer Look at 93.6 MA
Greats Lakes Seaway Open for Business
STB Announces Procedure to Expedite Rail Rate Cases
Early Spring Brings First Barge to Minnesota While Flooding Returns to Lower
Warm Winter Keeps Great Lakes Nearly Ice-Free
Warm Weather Gives Early Start to Spring Ritual
Industry Still Seeks Clarification on Implementing SOLAS VGM Amendment
With just a little over two months remaining before new rules for verifying
the weight of shipping containers before they are loaded onto cargo ships goes
into effect, agricultural-product and other shippers still have many answered
questions about how the new system will be enforced.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the
United Nations responsible for developing and maintaining a comprehensive
regulatory framework for worldwide shipping. In May of 2014, the IMO amended
the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) rules to require, as a condition for loading
a packed container onto a ship for export, that the container has a verified
gross mass (VGM).
Effective July 1, 2016, any shipping container leaving from any port in the
world must be accompanied by a shipping document signed either electronically
or in hard copy by the shipper on the bill of lading listing the VGM of a
container in order to be loaded onto a ship. After that date, it would be a
violation of SOLAS to load a packed container onto a vessel if the vessel
operator and marine terminal operator do not have a verified container weight.
The SOLAS amendment, which will apply globally, provides two methods
shippers may use to determine the container weight once the container packing
process has taken place. Method one is weighing the whole container after it
has been packed. For example, weighing the whole truck and container at
certified weighbridge and subtracting truck and chassis weight. Method two is
weighing all cargo and contents of the container individually, and adding those
weights to the container's tare weight and factor in additional loading
equipment weight, if any.
Shippers, freight forwarders, vessel operators, and terminal operators will
all need to establish policies and procedures to ensure the implementation of
this regulatory change. (A freight forwarder, forwarder, or forwarding agent,
is a person or company that organizes shipments for individuals or corporations
to get goods from the manufacturer or producer to a market, customer or final
point of distribution.)
The problem facing the industry right now is that nobody really knows all
the answers as to who is responsible for the official VGM. Midwest Shippers
Association (MSA) Executive Director Bruce Abbe told me, "There is still a
pretty alarming lack of communication and clarification from the ocean carriers
on a practical, implementation level as to how this is to happen through the
supply chain.
"We are now only 70 days today out from when the rule is to go into effect
across the globe -- when shippers must file a verified gross mass weight of the
loaded containers when booking shipping. There is still a pretty alarming lack
of communication and clarification from the ocean carriers on a practical,
implementation level as to how this is to happen through the supply chain.
"It's a pretty fluid situation," said Abbe. "Unless we get some clear,
doable procedures in place for executing this, we could definitely see some
major congestion and disruptions at some ports, and some significant added,
unexpected costs for shippers. But frankly, there is no reason for this to
happen. If the carriers just get the systems filing information out there, and
if they clarify a few procedures and rules (like tolerances) there is no reason
this can't be accommodated without any problems.
"It's important to remember, for the most part shippers are providing the
key weight information of their container cargo now when submitting their
shipping instructions," Abbe added.
Mike Hajny, vice president of Wesco International, Inc., a hay exporter in
Ellensburg, Washington, agreed. He told me since they already weigh all their
cargo at their facility, "It isn't a huge issue for us."
Hajny added, "One concern is if steamship lines will accept the empty
container weight printed on the door, or will insist on an actual physical
weight of the empty container. At this time, it appears they will all accept
the door weight. If this is the case, the reporting will be a non-issue for us
given our extensive and detailed database system. This will require another
layer of data reporting to steamship lines, but it appears it will be
manageable for us."
According to IMO SOLAS guidelines, the new SOLAS amendment spells out
clearly that the shipper of a container shall ensure the verified gross mass is
stated in the shipping document. "The shipping document shall be signed by a
person duly authorized by the shipper and submitted to the master or his
representative and to the terminal representative sufficiently in advance, as
required by the master or his representative, to be used in the preparation of
the ship stowage plan."
The amendment clearly states that if the shipping document, with regard to a
packed container, does not provide the verified gross mass and the master or
his representative and the terminal representative have not obtained the VGM of
the packed container, it shall not be loaded onto the ship.
Abbe told me there is "implied liability" in these rules that would seem to
put that liability all on the shippers. "The shippers have always been prepared
to submit the weight of their cargo (we do now) ... but don't feel we should
have to submit (have liability) for the combined, added weight of the container
equipment ... which the carriers own," said Abbe. "Testing has shown that the
posted "TARE weight" on the sides of containers are often off from actual
weight. The equipment often has been repaired changing actual weight, or it
just wasn't accurate. While that may seem like what should be a minor
difference, the carriers simply haven't specified any acceptable tolerance
levels here in the U.S."
Most ag shippers will use "method 2" set by the IMO, Abbe said, whereby they
determine the weight of their cargo and add in the weight of the container and
submit the combined VGM. Abbe said the carriers should be doing this themselves
but "don't expect it; they'll keep the onus on the shippers if they can."
"For many grain, soy and DDGS export container shippers, it ought to be
relatively easy to submit a 'verified' cargo weight because ag/grain elevators
and facilities use a certified weighing scale, already," said Abbe. "Not all
other container shippers have this to use." Abbe added, "Identity preserved
(IP) soybean exporters like many MSA members that load bags or super sack
totes, also know the weight of their cargo now. When they load them at their
plant, they're sure of what they load."
However, Abbe noted that bulk grain, DDGS, and soy exporters that ship rail
cars to the coasts where it is transloaded into containers, face some added
challenges. "The actual container is loaded by someone else, a logistics
service provider. So, since the shippers are to be held responsible -- but
someone else is loading it -- I see a likely need for some amended language in
service contracts to clarify these matters. This is one of big concerns; such a
lack of information on how to implement this so close to deadline."
"Our MSA grain transloader members also have scales and can and do provide
weights now in existing processes. But, again, what constitutes 'verified' in
their eyes has folks concerned."
For most grain container shippers, the max weight is determined by federal
highway trucking weight limits, and those are well below what the max is for
the ocean carriers and railroads. "But for some who may have their grain loaded
near a rail ramp or port that may be in a 'heavy weight' trucking corridor,
they will need to make sure they are within the allowed weight levels. No one
should be overloading -- now or after July 1. But terminals now do check
weights and at times catch and reject some, as they should," Abbe said.
What are the tolerances? "There hasn't been any announcement of recommended
tolerances yet that I am aware of for the U.S.," said Abbe. "Ag products, grain
in containers, chilled products, often will see small weight changes for
moisture that can develop while in route in containers when going through rain,
humid or dry conditions.
"Hong Kong, the U.K., and Japan have set a plus-or-minus 5% tolerance level,
while India has adopted a weight tolerance of plus or minus 200 kilograms (441
pounds), according to the Journal of Commerce," added Abbe. "That would be
considered very doable here for ag shippers. But no indication yet."
For anyone unaware of all this and then sends containers that arrive at the
terminals without a VGM filed on July 1, there does not seem to be any
consistency or clarity as to what will happen. "And, it appears to be different
at different ports," Abbe said. "We know it will be a "No VGM/No load"
situation; the container won't be loaded on the vessel.
"Some port terminals have said they'll stop the containers at the gate if
they don't have a VGM. So the trucker and shipper/forwarder will have to figure
something else out. Take it somewhere undetermined or figure out how to get a
verified weight done and submitted. Other ports have said they'll let the
container in and will hold it somewhere on the side for a period of time. There
are likely demurrage costs coming in those situations; notable cost penalties,"
said Abbe.
"Our concern at this point is that we are getting too close to the deadline
time for these procedures to not only not be communicated to the whole supply
chains that serve these carriers, but also to not have their actual
implementation procedures put in place." Abbe told me that according to the
American Shipper poll, nearly 60% indicated they did not understand how to
comply with the VGM rule.
"We are expecting most carriers will enable an electronic data information
(EDI) system to be put in place. At least three software providers for shipping
documentation filings that freight forwarders use are developing VGM filing
means. And carriers presumably will offer something like this in their own
booking systems, but it hasn't come out yet."
Abbe said that an MSA forwarder member told him this past week that he has
asked eight carriers when their systems for VGM filings will be out, and they
all said, "When we know, we'll let you know."
A friend of mine who brokers ag containers told me that, basically, the new
regulation is another layer of reporting and time requirements. He said that
when you add it to security requirements and the compliance to the new FSMA
rules, it all conspires to make things more difficult to export. He told me, "I
am glad I am getting close to retirement."
Mary Kennedy can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com
Follow her on Twitter @MaryCKenn
Will There be a Second Harvest of 2015 Crop?
Since it's my job at DTN to watch and analyze basis moves, I have been
curious as to how much grain is left on farm and when it may move. If it all
moves at once, basis would likely drop like a rock and transportation could
become problematic. Railroads have furloughed workers and parked locomotives
and cars because demand has dropped due to lack of steady grain movement since
last fall.
I reached out to some elevator managers in South Dakota and North Dakota for
their insight as to how much grain is not sold and also if they believe, as I
do, that we will see a "second harvest." I have seen it happen in other years
when harvest was bountiful and low prices caused the producer to keep his crop
at home until the following summer when he had to make room for the next batch
of new crop.
Tim Luken, manager of Oahe Grain in Onida, South Dakota, told me, "As far as
crops in the bin, I say we are 65% to 70% full in our area. Some of that is on
delayed price (DP) contracts. There are still covered corn piles that haven't
been touched since harvest and even some bagged wheat at a few elevators. These
bags were filled last harvest to make room in the bins for corn."
In February, Jerry Cope, who does the grain marketing for Dakota Mill &
Grain, Inc. in Rapid City, South Dakota, told me, "Farmers acknowledge that
most bins are full, or near full, but low prices have kept them at bay. That
said, we are seeing signs of resignation to having to trade the market at hand
rather than the one they want. Our stocks in western South Dakota are mostly
wheat, sunflowers, millet (other birdseed) and some corn."
This past week, Cope told me, "We agree with the latest NASS data of just
over 50% left in store in South Dakota. The old benchmark for South Dakota
farmers was to carry 1/4 to 1/3 from year to year. Recent years' production has
been 105% to 110% of storage capacity. Add in that farmers are saying that with
tighter cash flow less farm storage will get built this year and the takeaway
is something has to give. Selling and farm movement has picked up in the last
30 days and we look for it to continue right up until harvest."
An elevator manager in northeast South Dakota told me Thursday that he
thinks a lot of soybeans were sold on the latest rally. It wasn't necessarily
physical grain movement, except for the little bit ahead of planting, but more
a change in ownership with delayed price bushels getting priced and/or forward
contracts being written for summer delivery. He told me, "On this last leg up
especially, we noticed soybean basis widen out substantially for old crop and
new crop."
As for corn, he told me that there was still plenty left to sell and that he
"heard anecdotally" that some ethanol plants are short corn to grind in the
next month. He said his best guess was that about 20% of old-crop soybeans were
unpriced, but unpriced corn was still in the neighborhood of around 40% to 50%.
The picture is much the same in North Dakota. An elevator manger in eastern
North Dakota told me there is 30% to 35% of last year's wheat still around and
50% to 60% of last year's wheat left in the western part of the state. There is
25% to 30% of last year's beans left and 35% to 40% of last year's corn. He
told me he, "didn't know where we will go with it this summer; wheat, corn,
soybeans. I'm not sure the farmer understands how ugly basis can get," he added.
A manager in the same area told me he doesn't think the second harvest is
coming, but there will be increased grain movement in June/July but not a
complete exodus. He said he didn't think farmers will sell until they have to
and he didn't feel that time was here yet.
He pointed out that the industry has done an unbelievable job of bending
toward the farmer's financial needs by offering free storage on grain; offering
interest-free advances on that grain and giving "no payment for six months"
terms on inputs -- seed, fertilizer, chemical. He said the Bank of North Dakota
is offering $300 million for working capital shortfalls and some lenders are
rolling last year's operating note into this year's.
A grain buyer in western Minnesota who also covers eastern North Dakota told
me he thinks farmers are still holding over 50% of the corn, 40% of the spring
wheat and 20% of the soybean crop. He noted it is hard to be certain because
there is a lot of crop hauled to town on free DP or on unpriced basis
contracts. He told me, "Many of the basis contracts have been rolled numerous
times." But he added that with the recent 10-cent jump in corn, he did see more
corn priced. He is in agreement with a few others that I have talked to in that
he too isn't sure where all the corn and wheat will go if it moves at one time.
In the northern part of Minnesota, a manager told me that they have 20% to
30% of crop left to move off the farm. He said they had good movement of grain
to the elevator this past winter when everyone was offering free DP on wheat
and soybeans. Barley stocks in the country might be a little higher, he said,
and anyone holding open market malting barley (not pre-contracted) has no real
option to get rid of it at this time and probably not in the future. He
believes there will be a second harvest as soon as seeding is completed.
USDA March 31 On Farm Stocks
In the March 31 Grain Stocks report, USDA reported that 4.34 billion bushels
of corn were stored on farms as of March 1, down 1% from a year earlier. Among
those are Illinois reporting 580,000 bushels of corn remaining on farm; Iowa
on-farm corn stocks were at 930,000 bushels; Nebraska reported 530,000 bushels
and Minnesota was at 670,000 bushels and Indiana reported 270,000 bushels of
corn on farm. Since the report, the DTN cash index has gained 21 cents and
those numbers have likely moved lower. However, in my opinion, there is still
plenty of corn to move or price before the fall harvest.
Soybeans stored on farms are estimated at 728 million bushels, up 19% from a
year ago as of March 1. Iowa reported that 155,000 bushels were stored on farm;
Illinois reported 118,000 bushels and Minnesota reported 99,000 bushels. Those
numbers are likely lower after the strong soybean rally we have seen recently.
Since March 1, the DTN cash index has gained 90 cents per bushel.
As far as wheat, the USDA reported on-farm stocks are estimated at 320
million bushels, up 15% from March 1, 2015. As far as durum stocks, USDA
estimated on-farm stocks, at 16.7 million bushels, up 3% from March 1, 2015.
Since March 1, the DTN cash index for HRW has only gained 2 cents per bushel as
export demand has been dismal. The DTN cash index for spring wheat has gained
20 cents and U.S. durum prices have been moving higher as mills report that
Canada is "low on milling durum."
DTN Canadian Grain Analyst Cliff Jamieson said "Current Canadian government
forecasts suggest we will end with a one million metric ton carryout, just
slightly higher than last year's 956,000 metric ton. We're currently well ahead
of the pace to reach our export forecast (by 240,000 mt), so I believe ending
stocks will be even tighter than forecast." Jamieson also told me that he
believes that carryout could be largely high fusarium stocks since farmers had
a chance to sell their milling quality durum at good prices since harvest 2015.
History tells me that this could be another year where we may see summer
movement of grain that might rival a fall harvest. Even if farmers continue to
price out corn and soybeans, they will likely not move it until late May-June,
because they will be busy in the fields.
Mary Kennedy can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com
Follow her on Twitter @MaryCKenn
Canadian Pacific Ceases Pursuit of Norfolk Southern Railroad
Calgary, Alberta-based Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. on Monday announced it
was terminating its efforts to merge with Norfolk Southern Corp. Canadian
Pacific had pursued the merger in an attempt to create a North American
railroad that would stretch from Canada's west coast to the Gulf of Mexico and
Atlantic Ocean in the U.S.
In a statement on the company's website, Canadian Pacific said its decision
included "the withdrawal of a resolution asking NS shareholders to vote in
favor of good-faith negotiations between the two companies."
The company went on to state that, at this time, Canadian Pacific has no
further plans for financial offers or meetings with the NS board of directors.
"We have long recognized that consolidation is necessary for the North
American rail industry to meet the demands of a growing economy, but with no
clear path to a friendly merger at this time, we will turn all of our focus and
energy to serving our customers and creating long-term value for CP
shareholders," said Canadian Pacific CEO E. Hunter Harrison.
The resolution CP sent to Norfolk Southern shareholders and then later
withdrew is likely the very thing that sent the possibility of a merger
spiraling downward.
On March 3, CP filed a petition with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board
for declaratory order concerning CP's interest in buying the Norfolk Southern
(NS). In the petition, CP stated they were pursuing a merger with NS, which had
refused CP's overtures based in large part, on its assertion that the Surface
Transportation Board would not approve CP's proposed voting trust structure.
"This assertion appears to be intended to discourage stockholder support for
a CP-NS meeting to discuss the benefits of a merger, and thus its mere presence
shields NS's current management from their own stockholders by creating the
impression that the regulatory process creates insurmountable obstacles to any
transaction," Canada Pacific stated in its petition. "A declaratory ruling from
the board providing guidance would remove such uncertainty, and thus leave
stockholders free to make decisions about the efficacy of further meetings
based on the potential benefits of a merger, not on ersatz regulatory concerns."
Soon after the petition was filed, opposition grew louder and many groups
responded to the STB, asking them to allow interested parties 45 days to reply
to the March 2 petition.
At the JPMorgan Aviation, Transportation and Industrials Conference on March
9, Canadian Pacific CEO E. Hunter Harrison was questioned about the CP bid for
the Norfolk Southern and the filing to the STB. "We're hoping that the
resolution, whether it's overwhelming or for whatever reason, would cause them
to have second thoughts, and maybe they would sit down and talk to us. As they
sit down and talk to us, and we still can't agree, and they decide they don't
want to do a deal, then we're closing shop and we're going to Calgary, and
we're going to run a hell of a railroad in Western Canada and see what happens
to the North American network, and reward some shareholders and have some fun.
We don't have to do this deal. I mean, look, Alberta beef is good, but we just
got some gravy we thought was even better. Let's make it even better. But if
they don't want gravy on their steaks, then fine," said Harrison.
On March 10, the STB published a decision stating that, "Replies will be due
by April 8, 2016, and should address the merits of CP's petition. CP will be
permitted to file a rebuttal by April 13, 2016."
Since Dec. 7, 2015, a number of stakeholders had submitted correspondence to
the STB about CP's pursuit of the NS. Those submitting comments included
members of Congress, state and local officials, shippers and members of the
public. While all responses to the proposed merger have not been negative,
these latest responses may have been the final blow to the deal.
An example of one of the responses opposing the merger was a statement
released by U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman
Bill Shuster, R-Penn., on April 5: "I have closely followed Canadian Pacific's
attempts to merge with another railroad over the past several years, and after
looking at the merits of the current proposal to merge with Norfolk Southern, I
do not believe it is in the best interests of the U.S. freight transportation
system, railroad employees, rail shippers, and the short line railroads."
"A strong, healthy, and well-functioning freight rail system is critical to
the movement of goods in this country. However, CP's pursuit of a merger over
the last two years has done nothing but create uncertainty in the rail
industry, and there continues to be no clear path forward for such an
arrangement," Shuster said. "I have expressed my concerns to the appropriate
federal agency, and I believe it is time for all parties to move on from
hypothetical merger proposals and focus on improving the transportation of
goods and products to help grow the American economy."
On Thursday, April 7, the United States military filed a response to the STB
saying, "It is too early to determine whether either a CPRL+NSR merger itself,
or a downstream merger involving other major railroads, would degrade national
defense. However, the potential certainly exists for either the CPRL+NSR merger
or a downstream merger to adversely affect national defense. Therefore, it is
critical that no common control of CPRL and NSR occur prior to the board ruling
that such common control, and the merger that cements it, is permissible. Such
a ruling should certainly consider the effects of both the CPRL+NSR merger, and
any resultant downstream mergers, on national defense." (http://goo.gl/H26Qu7)
On Friday, April 8, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an 11-page reply to
the CP petition for a declaratory order saying, "The STB should reject the
proposed voting trust structure because it risks altering the competitive
landscape between the CP and NS and indeed the entire rail system in a way that
could not be reversed if the STB rejects the merger. We believe that this
voting trust would create unlawful control violations and would be inconsistent
with the public interest." (http://goo.gl/QXonpE)
I have read through many of the responses provided to the STB concerning the
Canadian Pacific's pursuit of Norfolk Southern. I have also spoken to various
CP grain elevator customers over the past year about the merger proposal, and
some expressed their concerns with one word: "monopoly." Shippers on the CP
have also expressed concerns that rail rates would increase if a merger were to
go through and wondered if service may also be negatively affected. Meanwhile,
shippers on the Norfolk Southern railroad made it very clear in the many
comments to the STB that they were concerned Canadian Pacific may change the
infrastructure of NS and have a detrimental effect of those states' agriculture
I would agree with their concerns about service changes, especially on the
Norfolk Southern railroad. The possibility of rail rate increases was a strong
possibility had the merger gone ahead. Grain prices have dropped significantly
since harvest 2015. And while rail service has improved throughout the U.S.
since 2014, the last thing grain shippers need right now is the fear of
increased costs.
Here is a link to all correspondence sent to and from the STB since December
2015: http://www.stb.dot.gov/stb/industry/Merger_Correspondence.html
Mary Kennedy can be reached at email@example.com
Follow Mary Kennedy on Twitter @MaryCKenn
NGFA Hosts Seminars on 'Far-Reaching' New Feed Safety Rules
Several national and state groups are working to help U.S. grain facilities
comply with new rules for the handling, transportation and storage of food and
animal feed that are part of the Food Safety Modernization Act.
The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) along with the Minnesota
Grain and Feed Association (MGFA) and the Minnesota Department of Ag (MDA)
recently hosted a series of regional seminars in Minnesota to educate industry
members on the far-reaching new feed safety rules being promulgated by the Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) to implement the Food Safety Modernization Act
The three, full-day seminars were part of NGFA's ongoing FSMA education and
training efforts. The NGFA, in cooperation with state feed regulatory agencies
and affiliated state and regional associations, has several more seminars
scheduled in the coming weeks and will continue to add more seminars throughout
the country.
NGFA Senior Vice President of Feed Services David Fairfield is leading these
sessions with NGFA Feed Manufacturing and Technology Committee Chairman Matt
Frederking, vice president of regulatory affairs and quality at Ralco Nutrition
in Marshall, Minnesota.
Fairfield told the over 150 seminar attendees in St. Cloud, "feed is food"
is the new paradigm. He said FSMA rules will apply to facilities required to
register as a "food facility" with FDA under Bioterrorism Act requirements.
Feed mills, grain elevators, grain processors that manufacture, pack process or
hold food for humans or animals must register with the FDA. He added, "Farms
(operations meeting FDA's definition of a 'farm') are exempt."
Under federal regulations, a farm is defined as "a facility in one general
physical location devoted to the growing and harvesting of crops, the raising
of animals (including seafood), or both. Washing, trimming of outer leaves of,
and cooling produce are considered part of harvesting." The definition
continues to define what the "term farm" includes: https://goo.gl/XFuxKz.
Fairfield explained that, "The farm definition includes operations under one
management devoted to the raising of animals that manufacture feed so long as
the feed is consumed on that farm or another farm under the same management;
e.g., feedlots, laying operations where hens are fed on farms under the same
management." He noted that the "Current definition is size-neutral; FDA says
this is a 'gap' they intend to address."
"The FDA final rule current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) regulations
and preventive controls for animal food is a complex rule," said Fairfield.
"Facilities 'solely engaged' in storing grain and oilseeds are exempt from
requirements to implement CGMPs and preventive controls; different treatment
for elevators handling 'fruits' [i.e., lentils, kidney beans, pinto beans, lima
beans, coffee beans, cocoa beans, peanuts, tree nuts and seeds for direct
consumption (e.g., sunflower seeds)."
Elevators solely engaged in storing, handling such "fruits" are exempt from
CGMP requirements, but not exempt from the preventive controls and supply chain
program requirements. FDA, however, will issue special regulations if it is
necessary to cover these excluded operations. Here is a link to the FSMA Final
Rule for Preventive Controls for Animal Food: http://goo.gl/oCk0Q9
Preventive control rules are defined as those risk-based, reasonably
appropriate procedures, practices, and processes that a person knowledgeable
about the safe manufacturing, processing, packing, or holding of animal food
would employ to significantly minimize or prevent the hazards identified under
the hazard analysis that are consistent with the current scientific
understanding of safe food manufacturing, processing, packing, or holding at
the time of the analysis.
Frederking explained that, "Hazard means any biological, chemical (including
radiological), or physical agent that has the potential to cause illness or
injury in humans or animals. Known or reasonably foreseeable hazard means a
biological, chemical (including radiological), or physical hazard that is known
to be, or has the potential to be, associated with the facility or the animal
Here are three reasons why grain elevators will need to comply with
preventive control rules: aflatoxin, vomitoxin, fumonisin. The exemption for
preventive control refers to facilities "that are solely engaged in the storage
of unexposed packaged animal food that does not require time/temperature
control to significantly minimize or prevent the growth of, or toxin production
by, pathogens."
Here is a reminder of toxin levels unacceptable by the FDA in grain used for
feed. "FDA policy prohibits blending different lots of grain to reduce the
mycotoxin level in the resulting lot."
-- Aflatoxin (action levels): 20-300 ppb, depending on commodity and species
to which fed;
-- Vomitoxin (advisory levels): 5-30 ppm, depending on commodity and species
to which fed; 5-10 ppm in total ration;
-- Fumonisin (guidance levels): 5-100 ppm, depending commodity and species
to which fed; 1-5 ppm in total ration.
The Sanitary Transportation of Human and Animal Food proposed rule
establishes requirements for vehicles and transportation equipment,
transportation operations, training, and recordkeeping. For example, shippers
would be required to inspect a vehicle for cleanliness or contamination prior
to loading food that is not completely enclosed by its container. Operators of
motor vehicles, railcars, and other equipment used in food transportation would
be required to establish written procedures, subject to record keeping
requirements, for cleaning their vehicles and transportation equipment,
according to the FDA. At the meeting in St. Cloud, Fairfield said, "This rule
will apply to feed mills and grain elevators and will impact our industry as
well as truck and rail." The final rule was published April 1.
MGFA said: "The transportation rule, first proposed in January 2014, is the
second-to-last regulation that needs to be finalized under the Food Safety
Modernization Act. The proposed rule outlines food safety practices for
shippers, receivers and carriers who haul food by truck, rail or ocean vessel."
The final rule is expected to set requirements for equipment, sharing
information, training and record-keeping in order to prevent contamination.
"Pay attention," said Fairfield. Here is a link to the rule:
Bob Zelenka, executive director of MGFA, told me, "MGFA meetings over the
next year will obviously be heavily weighted towards the FSMA and, to date, the
focus has clearly been on feed mills and not as much on grain elevator
implications. That will certainly change going forward." Zelenka said that the
Sanitary Transportation rule "will certainly affect grain elevators as much as
and maybe more than it will affect feed mills."
I can only imagine how hard it would be to try and decipher the over 600
pages of the entire FSMA Act. Thankfully, with the seminars conducted by the
NGFA and other state grain and feed organizations and state ag departments,
there is relief in sight. Check with your local organization or
https://www.ngfa.org/ to find out if there are training sessions offered in
your state and/or to keep track of the latest information about the FSMA.
You can ask questions via the FDA "help line" as well. The FDA FSMA
Technical Assistance Network (TAN) is now operational and providing technical
assistance to industry, regulators, academia, consumers and others regarding
FSMA implementation. http://goo.gl/bpbRD
Frederking told the crowd of over 150 attendees at the St. Cloud seminar,
"We need to get over the fact that we think FSMA is going away; there are now
dates in black-and-white that need to be complied with."
Here is a link to some key FSMA implementation dates: http://goo.gl/mn5ffK
Mary Kennedy can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com
Follow Mary Kennedy on Twitter @MaryCKenn
A Closer Look at 93.6 MA
USDA's estimate that 93.6 million acres of corn will be planted in 2016
caught most by surprise on Thursday and was over 2 million acres above the
highest guess in Dow Jones newswire's pre-report survey. Finding the number too
big to believe, I dug deeper and found some helpful insights.
First, it should be noted that total acres for corn, soybeans and wheat were
estimated at 225.4 million, virtually the same as 2015. The 5.6-million-acre
increase in corn was made possible by a 5-million-acre reduction in wheat and a
half-million-acre reduction in soybeans. Theoretically, there is room for
corn's increase, but is it correct to believe that all wheat acres will go to
corn, especially as we have heard about the increased profitability of pulses
like lentils and chickpeas?
Going down USDA's state-by-state list of planting estimates, we see that the
numbers for Illinois and Iowa were increased by 400,000 acres each. South
Dakota and Nebraska were increased by 300,000 acres each and Indiana by 150,000
acres. Increased plantings in those high-yield states are definitely bearish.
I also can't find fault with a 300,000-acre increase in the estimate for
Missouri after their flooding problems of 2015. However, a 330,000-acre
increase in the estimate for Louisiana is hard to believe in the face of this
spring's flooding. I also have to wonder about the top two increases on USDA's
state list: 650,000-acre gains for both Kansas and North Dakota.
In 2015, North Dakota's corn yield averaged 128 bushels an acre while Kansas
came in at 148 bushels. Both of these states on the outer fringe of the Corn
Belt yielded less than the national average of 168.4 bushels an acre, and it is
fair to wonder about their potential in 2016. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor
shows both states currently considered abnormally dry with a patch of moderate
drought conditions in southwestern Kansas.
Overall, USDA's corn planting estimate is plausible, but only as long as we
understand that not all the new acres are necessarily high-yielding ground. The
most bearish aspect of Thursday's report is that it has been branded in our
minds and will dominate the numbers we talk about until more is known about the
new crop. For corn growers hoping for a better price in 2016, USDA's June 30
report and summer weather can't get here soon enough.
Todd Hultman can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com
Greats Lakes Seaway Open for Business
It was a busy week for the Great Lakes as lakers moved into position to
officially open the 2016 shipping season. Lakers are ships constructed for
carrying cargo on the Great Lakes.
It all started on March 21 as the St. Lawrence Seaway opened two weeks
earlier than normal with no ice hindering ships thanks to the warm weather.
"We certainly welcome the warmer weather," Terence Bowles, president and CEO
of The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC), said in a press
release. "A return to an opening in the third week of March provides our
clients with the opportunity to move cargo in a timely manner, and make the
most of the navigation season,"
In terms of the outlook for 2016, Bowles noted that a lower Canadian dollar
may spur more Canadian exports this year. "The combination of a rebound in
Canadian manufacturing activity, a solid U.S. economy, and the prospect of more
trade with Europe brings about several catalysts which may boost Seaway
tonnage," he said.
In the Twin Ports of Duluth/Superior, the Edwin H. Gott departed from its
winter berth at the Clure Public Marine Terminal at 4 a.m. beneath Duluth's
famed Aerial Bridge to the CN Dock in Two Harbors to fuel and load iron ore
In a press release, Adele Yorde, public relations director for Duluth Seaway
Port Authority, said, "From the list of vessels heading upbound through the Soo
Locks, it looks like the port will welcome its first two inbound lakers over
the weekend with anticipated arrivals of the Stewart J. Cort and the Burns
Harbor on Saturday."
"The first Canadian laker should arrive early next week," Yorde said. "It's
difficult to predict with any certainty at this point in time the arrival of
the Port's first saltie, which must still cross the Atlantic and transit the
full length of the waterway."
Yorde told me that it looks like the first saltie may arrive around April 4
to open the grain shipping season.
Shortly after midnight on Friday, March 25, the 858-foot Roger Blough was
the first freighter to enter and pass through the Soo Locks (sometimes spelled
Sault Locks, but pronounced "soo"). The four Soo Locks operated by the United
States Army Corps of Engineers are the Davis, Sabin, MacArthur, and Poe locks;
currently, all ships use the larger Poe (1,200 feet) and MacArthur (800 feet)
According to the USACE, the location of the Soo Locks provides a critical
infrastructure link for ship owners and ports on both sides of the border. "As
a gateway for commerce, the locks allow for the movement of essential raw
materials to transit from Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes," according to
USACE. "Four thousand commercial vessels transit the locks each year carrying
more than 80 million tons of iron ore, low-sulfur coal, grain, limestone and
breakbulk cargoes from or destined for domestic and foreign ports."
"The opening of the Soo Locks reminds the shipping community that another
year has passed for our nation's aging infrastructure, which highlights the
need to protect the Soo by twinning the Poe Lock," Vanta Coda, executive
director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority, stated in a press release by the
Great Lakes Seaway Partnership.
On Feb. 17, 2016, U.S.-based Great Lakes Maritime Task Force warned in its
2015 annual report that relying on the single Poe-sized lock to connect Lake
Superior to the lower lakes and seaway is one of the top issues threatening the
future of shipping on the Great Lakes.
Tim Heney, CEO of the Thunder Bay Port Authority, the largest grain export
port on the lakes, stated in the press release that the Soo Locks are important
to the port since 100% of their trade moves through the locks down to the
Welland Canal and out through the seaway. "The majority of our grain leaves the
port on lakers for transloading onto ocean vessels in Quebec destined for
customers in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. We also load
ocean vessels for direct export," added Heney.
"The opening of the Soo Locks is, for us, the opening day of baseball," Coda
said. "It's the excitement of a new season -- the anticipation of seeing ships
underway and commerce flowing in and out of the Duluth-Superior Harbor beneath
the iconic Lift Bridge."
It is an amazing sight to see the "ladies of the lake" moving in and out of
the ports. If you have not witnessed it, put it on your bucket list. For a
taste of what you would see and hear, watch this video of the 1,000-foot Edwin
H Gott starting off the 2016 shipping season for Duluth, courtesy of
duluthharborcam.com: https://youtu.be/JFG07Tkq2pw
Mary Kennedy can be reached at email@example.com
Follow Mary Kennedy on Twitter @MaryCKenn
STB Announces Procedure to Expedite Rail Rate Cases
Grain shippers will have the opportunity next month to share ideas with the
U.S. Surface Transportation Board on how to improve the process for shippers to
challenge railroad freight rates they believe are unreasonable.
On March 9, the U.S. Surface Transportation Board announced final rules for
revising the procedural schedule for certain large railroad rate cases. The
action was taken to comply with the Surface Transportation Board
Reauthorization Act of 2015, which called for revising regulations that set the
procedural schedule for "stand-alone cost," or "SAC" case handling.
On March 15, the STB announced that its staff will hold informal meetings
with stakeholders during April 2016 to explore and discuss ideas to expedite
rate reasonableness cases. "These informal discussions will be used to enhance
STB staff's perspective on strategies and pathways to expedite and streamline
rate cases, especially SAC cases where the board's time to analyze the record
and issue a decision has been substantially shortened," stated the press
"These meetings will be a valuable opportunity for STB staff and interested
parties to talk openly and candidly about our procedures for handling rate
cases, and to brainstorm ideas for improving our processes and expediting case
resolution," STB Chairman Daniel R. Elliott said in the release. "Additionally,
these meetings will further my efforts to make the board more available and
accessible to our stakeholders."
The STB announced meeting times will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and
Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. during April. Interested persons are
requested to contact the Rail Customer and Public Assistance office
(202-245-0238) to schedule individual meeting times. Questions about the
meetings should also be directed to RCPA.
The Surface Transportation Board Reauthorization Act of 2015 was passed by
the House of Representatives Dec. 10, 2015, following the Senate passage of the
bill on June 18, 2015. The legislation, which was signed into law by President
Barack Obama, gives the STB the right to initiate investigations of freight
rail practices that have national or regional significance on its own
authority, without having to wait for a shipper to first file a formal
Section 11 of the STB Reauthorization Act requires the board to "maintain
procedures for the expeditious handling of rate cases before the agency.
Accordingly, timelines in SAC rate case proceedings found at 49 C.F.R. ? 1111.8
have been significantly shortened, including limits on the time allowed for
discovery and the time allowed for development of the evidentiary record," said
the STB. The board's final rules can be found at this link: http://goo.gl/hqD7If
A public hearing was held June 10, 2015, to explore the issue of making the
STB's rate case process more accessible to grain shippers and to create a more
streamlined, cost-effective and workable process for grain shippers to use to
challenge unreasonable rates. The National Grain and Feed Organization (NGFA)
urged the STB at that hearing to issue a proposed rulemaking to establish a new
process that agricultural commodity shippers could use to challenge freight
rates they believe are unreasonable or unlawful under the Staggers Rail Act of
NGFA said in a press release on June 11, 2015, that NGFA Rail
Shipper/Receiver Committee Chairman Kevin Thompson, assistant vice president
and transportation lead for Cargill Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota, told the
agency at the June 10 hearing that its current rate-challenge appeal procedures
"are simply inappropriate and unworkable for agricultural commodities because
they are too complex and costly compared to the potential recover of rate
NGFA Board member Bruce Sutherland, vice president of Michigan Agricultural
Commodities (MAC), presented real-world examples to the STB of current
rate-pricing practices by a major Class I rail carrier. "These increases in
rail rates are several orders of magnitude greater than typically thin
grain-trading margins," Sutherland said. "Consequently if we are to be
price-competitive in selling commodities to domestic user and foreign buyers,
we inevitably have to try and pass on the cost impacts we can't absorb back to
farmer customers. Seldom are we able to pass such costs forward to the ultimate
buyer, as they have alternative sources of supply in the grain market -- which
is a truly competitive market."
To see the June 15, 2015 story about the hearing and responses/reactions
from both shippers and railroads, see http://goo.gl/JcE43A
Mary Kennedy can be reached at email@example.com
Follow Mary Kennedy on Twitter @MaryCKenn
Early Spring Brings First Barge to Minnesota While Flooding Returns to Lower
Upper Mississippi River shippers celebrated the opening of the 2016 shipping
season over the weekend with the arrival of two tow boats. There was no cause
for celebration on the Lower Mississippi, though, with the river at or near
flood stage and likely to cause shipping delays.
On Saturday, March 12, the first tow of the season, the Ronald E.
Wagenblast, was making its way through the thin ice on Lake Pepin. Located 60
miles downriver from St. Paul, Minnesota, Lake Pepin is the widest naturally
occurring part of the Mississippi River. Pepin is the last roadblock for barges
waiting to come upriver to open the spring shipping season.
Close behind was a second tow, the Jonathan Erickson. Both tows were pushing
barges upriver to the St. Paul, Minnesota, District and arrived at Lock and Dam
2 on March 13 in the early morning hours to celebrate the opening of the 2016
shipping season.
This year, Pepin had an early melt. On March 9, the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers said the thickest ice was 10 inches and that they no longer would
continue measurements on the lake since barges can break through ice less than
20 inches thick. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) said the 10-year
average for the first towboat to arrive in the St. Paul District is March 24.
The earliest date for an up-bound tow to reach Lock and Dam 2 was March 4, in
1983, 1984 and 2000, according to the USACE. The latest start to a navigation
season since 1970 occurred on April 16, 2014.
Tows also had to wait for the reopening of Lock and Dam 9 on March 12, but
nobody could have predicted that Lake Pepin's ice would be nearly gone by now.
Lock and Dam 9, near Lynxville, Wisconsin, was closed to all navigation traffic
Dec. 9, 2015, for winter maintenance, but the mild winter allowed for the
repairs to be completed earlier than scheduled. The Corps originally projected
reopening the lock March 17.
On March 10, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency
for the entire state because "a strong upper-level storm system that has caused
thunderstorms across most of the state, is expected to continue through the
week and bring heavy rain, flash flooding and damaging winds to areas which are
already experienced flooding." The storms dropped up to 20 inches of rain in
parts of the state, causing near-record flooding and forcing a call-up of the
National Guard to help evacuate thousands of people from their homes.
Remember back to early January when the flooding caused the St. Louis Harbor
to close and caused tow and barges to pile up in the Harbor. Then, as St. Louis
started to recover, the trickle-down effect caused slowdowns and closures from
Vicksburg to New Orleans, which in turn caused tow boats and barges to bunch up
in the south.
On March 2, Tom Russell, Russell Marine Group, told me, "Tow companies have
been upside-down and out of sync during high water that occurred during January
and February. The result was a backlog of barges waiting to be hauled. Tow
boats are now returning to normal traffic patterns and ironing out the delays.
Most high-water safety restrictions have been lifted in Baton Rouge, but
dredges are at work in the southwest pass (SWP) due to the high water causing
excessive silting."
Less than two weeks after our conversation, the Mississippi River was on the
rise once again. On Sunday, March 14, the river at Vicksburg was at 42.59 feet
and was expected to crest at flood stage of 43 feet late evening on March 14.
The river at Baton Rouge was at 35.12 feet (flood stage is 35 feet) and is
expected to continue rising until cresting at around 36.5 feet by early
Wednesday morning, March 16. http://goo.gl/NCFbJX
Until the river returns to normal, conditions in the lower Mississippi river
down to the Gulf will likely cause shipping delays due to high water and
restrictions once again. Once the river recedes, dredges will likely head back
to work on the areas where more shoaling occurred due to the flooding.
Mary Kennedy can be reached at email@example.com
Follow Mary Kennedy on Twitter @MaryCKenn
Warm Winter Keeps Great Lakes Nearly Ice-Free
Ice cutters will have an easier job on Lake Superior and the rest of the
Great Lakes, and shipping could begin earlier than normal on the upper
Mississippi River thanks to warm weather this winter.
The ice cutter Alder is currently parked in the Twin Ports as she awaits her
spring ritual of cutting ice on Lake Superior. She is scheduled to begin
cutting ice on Monday, March 7. She should have an easier time of it than in
past years since the ice measurement on Lake Superior as of March 6 is at 12.5%
versus last year at the same time of 92% and 93.8% in 2014 on the same date.
Overall, the Great Lakes ice coverage as of March 6 was at 19.7% versus 83.7%
in 2015 on the same date.
According to the Duluth Shipping news via the USCG, "U.S. Coast Guard Cutter
Alder will commence spring break-out operations in the Duluth-Superior area
Monday, March 7, 2016. Initially, ice-breaking operations will occur inside the
Duluth and Superior Harbors. The ice breaking work will expand in coming weeks
to prepare Two Harbors, Minnesota; Taconite Harbor, Minnesota; Silver Bay,
Minnesota; and Thunder Bay, Ontario, for commercial ship movements."
"Unlike the past two winters, this year was unseasonably warm. Regional ice
cover is not as expansive, nor did it reach traditional thicknesses. The
forecast for the next seven to 10 days calls for temperatures conducive to
rapid deterioration of ice. These operations will continue periodically over
the next few days and weeks to prepare regional waterways for the start of the
Great Lakes commercial navigation season."
I asked Adele Yorde, public relations director for the Duluth Seaway port
Authority, if the 2016 shipping season would open early due to the low ice
coverage. She told me, "No early open for the 2016 navigation season -- even
with the low/no-ice conditions. With demand for iron ore so diminished, none of
the fleets are clamoring to sail earlier than usual. Soo Locks still plan to
reopen on schedule on March 25 (midnight leading into the March 26). The Locks
on the St. Lawrence Seaway (Montreal/Lake Ontario section) are scheduled to
reopen at 8 a.m. on March 23; the Welland Canal is set to open the morning of
March 21."
Once the Seaway opens, oceangoing vessels or saltwater vessels, called
salties, make their way to Great Lakes destinations, including the Twin Ports
for grain loading. Last year, on Monday, April 14, the Port of Duluth-Superior
welcomed Kom, the first saltie to have made full transit of the 2,342-mile
Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway. Expectations are that we will see the first
saltie sooner than that in 2016.
The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation reported that for 2015,
"Grain volumes on the Seaway amounted to 10.8 million metric tons, one of the
strongest years in recent memory. The Port of Thunder Bay, the principal point
of entry for grain into the Great Lakes/Seaway System, reported its second-best
season in 15 years. Combined with grain being loaded onto ships from other
ports such as Hamilton, Duluth/Superior and Toledo, agricultural commodities
have become increasingly important to the Great Lakes/Seaway System."
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, is reopening Lock and
Dam 9, near Lynxville, Wisconsin, five days earlier than expected, according to
an email sent to DTN by Patrick Moes, public affairs for USACE. The lock was
closed to all navigation traffic Dec. 9, 2015, for winter maintenance. "An
extremely efficient work crew and mild winter allowed for the repairs to be
completed earlier than scheduled. The Corps originally projected reopening the
lock March 17," said Moes.
Once the lock is open, navigation traffic will be able to move north of Lock
9. Lake Pepin ice may delay navigation reaching St. Paul, Minnesota, but Corps
surveyors started measuring the ice thickness on Feb. 17 and will continue to
do so bi-weekly, reporting the information to navigation officials. With the
unseasonably warm temperatures blanketing parts of Minnesota, it is likely that
the river shipping season may get an early start in 2016. Moes said, "The
earliest that navigation has started in St. Paul is March 4. It has happened
three times since 1981 -- 1983, 1984 and 2000."
In 2015, the motor vessel New Dawn moved through Lock and Dam 2, near
Hastings, Minnesota, after breaking through Lake Pepin ice on March 25. Once
Lake Pepin gives up her ice, we will see barges heading north. Ceres Barge Line
noted that there is a good supply of barges making their way out of St. Louis
in to the UMR, which is pressuring barge freight in the St. Paul District and
Middle Mississippi. "Shippers will not have to worry about empties for a bit as
the empties are plentiful," according to Ceres.
Cheap barge freight is good for basis levels, but with a slowdown in demand
recently, river basis levels have been mostly steady. The Gulf basis was
stronger last week, as most of the high-water conditions from the recent
flooding have been lifted. However, Tom Russell, Russell Marine, told me that,
"The high water did cause excessive silting at SWP, forcing pilots to reduce
draft down to 42 feet max. There are seven dredges working SWP that will
continue to work until normal draft of 45 feet or more is restored. Otherwise,
barge and ship traffic is moving normally in the port."
"Tow companies have been upside down and out of sync during high water that
occurred during January and February. The result was a backlog of barges
waiting to be hauled. Towboats are now returning to normal traffic patterns and
ironing out the delays." Russell added that, overall, "March river conditions
currently indicate smooth sailing."
Here is a link to the March 2 ice measurements: http://goo.gl/KIKUEi
Next measurements will be taken March 9.
Mary Kennedy can be reached at email@example.com
Follow Mary Kennedy on Twitter @MaryCKenn
Warm Weather Gives Early Start to Spring Ritual
In some areas, an early spring may bring early load limits on rural roads.
That could be a problem with so much grain in on-farm storage. When selling
starts, we could see a lot of it all at once -- a kind of "second harvest --
which could be detrimental to basis.
When the frozen ground thaws in late winter and early spring, some road beds
-- especially older highways and gravel roads -- become saturated and the
potential for damage from heavy trucks is high. On Feb. 22, the South Dakota
counties of Sully and Potter posted "spring" load limit restrictions. This was
nearly one month early as the recent warm-up is causing frost to come out of
the ground earlier than normal. The National Weather Service in Sioux Falls
reported record temperatures on Saturday, Feb. 27, in Mitchell at 69 degrees,
70 degrees at Huron and Sioux Falls tied a record a 63 and on Sunday
temperatures reached 68.
Tim Luken, manager of Oahe Grain in Onida, South Dakota, told DTN it was the
earliest he had seen load limits come on. "We have lost 98% of our snow," he
said. When asked if farmers were nervous about the early load-limit postings,
Luken said, "farmers are still reluctant to haul anything due to low prices."
Jerry Cope, who does the grain marketing for Dakota Mill & Grain, Inc. in
Rapid City, South Dakota, told DTN, "Road restrictions and the predicted
warm-up will have many thinking of farming and not hauling. South Dakota weight
limits are based on the number of axles and axle spacing. Trucks with double
trailers that are properly set up can still haul full 100,000 pound loads over
seven-ton per axle roads. That will create opportunity for custom trucks, such
as we have, as farmers do begin to market. However spring thaw, less than
seven-ton restrictions and soft farmyards will slow movement. The net effect
could put off grain movement even later and become a harvest before the harvest
in May and June."
"In Day County, the highway department reserves the right to put load limits
of six-tons per axle on March 1, and I think most counties in South Dakota are
similar," said Ryan Wagner who farms in Roslyn, South Dakota. "Depending on the
weather, they sometimes put them on right away but most often wait if it's
cold. This year, it looks like they will likely be put on right away on Mar. 1.
Since this is an every year occurrence I don't think it will disrupt farmers'
plans because they are accustomed to it now and plan accordingly."
Wagner added that he thinks there is a misconception that a lot of farmers
don't follow those load limits. "The fines are so steep that it just isn't
worth it and more importantly, we have a vested interest in protecting the
roads, so I think most everybody is very careful not to be overweight."
In his area, Luken said, "Corn is 40% sold and I would call on-farm storage
at 70% full yet between wheat, corn and sunflowers. Lots to move as each day is
getting closer to harvest and basis levels are going to get wider yet as we go
forward. Already see them slipping."
Stocks in western South Dakota are mostly wheat, sunflowers, millet (other
birdseed) and some corn, Cope said. "Farmers acknowledge that most bins are
full, or near full, but low prices have kept them at bay. That said, we are
seeing signs of resignation to having to trade the market at hand rather than
the one they want," he added. "Cash flow concerns would lead us to guess that
there will be less new bin building than in years past. That won't bode well
for prices or elevator logistics."
"There is a lot of corn, beans and wheat to move but I don't really see any
'panic selling' so to speak just yet. But like you said, with rents coming due
and spring being a high cash flow time of year, we could see a little of that,"
said Wagner.
"One thing I have noted is there seems to be a lot more basis contracts this
year, so even if we do get a futures rally this spring while farmers are busy
and/or load limits are in place, I think guys will take advantage of that to
lock in the futures leg of their basis contracts, which could keep a lid on
rallies. There are also a lot of elevators that have been offering free DP
(delayed pricing) for quite a while now, so any rally will likely cause guys to
price DP bushels they hauled this winter to generate cash."
I have been talking to elevator managers and farmers elsewhere about the
sizable amount of grain still sitting in bins and my opinion is that we may see
a good chunk of it move at one time. Wagner said, "I think you are spot on with
the "second harvest" hitting around June 1 with all the grain yet to move,
which could really be negative to basis."
South Dakota's load limits can be found at:
All other affected states can be found at that state's Department of
Transportation (DOT) websites.
Mary Kennedy can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com
Follow her on Twitter @MaryCKenn


text:
Vietnam veterans honored in Logan Heights
"It is important for our children to understand the sacrifices that were made by our troops."
Mike Madriaga 6:30 p.m., May 3
Surprise, surprise, I liked The Master. I'm a sucker for alienated vets with a predilection for booze and women.
I also liked Step Up to the Plate. I'm a sucker for father-son issues being worked out in an atmosphere of incredibly refined French cookery. Plus, the depiction of the creative process behind inventing a dish is super-duper neat.
I was not as fond of End of Watch. I am not a sucker for Jittercam. They don't even make music videos this choppy any more.
Scott wasn't terribly impressed with Clint's latest, Trouble with the Curve, but amazingly, he avoided any Trouble with the Chair jokes in his review. A model of taste and restraint.
Dredd 3D didn't screen for critics, presumably because it's just that good.
Scott's gonna see House at the End of the Street real soon and get back to us.
The nitz seated next to me at the screening proudly announced that he tweeted: "seeing trouble with the curve with clint eastwood. hope there are no chairs for him to talk to." At that time I vowed no chair jokes.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Latest Headlines
There is clear battle brewing between the wireless industry and the cable industry. AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and the rest of the nation's top wireless carriers are increasingly developing products and services that stand as a direct challenge to cable operators like Comcast and Charter Communications.
Sprint said it will merge its Assurance Wireless brand with Access Wireless in a tie-up of Lifeline service providers.
Verizon has deployed thousands of re-directed and temporary employees to fill in holes, as a strike by unionized wireline workers drags on.
CenturyLink has launched a new multi-cloud automation and orchestration service called Runner to address across hybrid-IT architectures and diverse cloud environments.
DirecTV has demurred on a request from California Congresswoman Janice Hahn (D-San Pedro) to return to the bargaining table with Time Warner Cable and discuss carriage of TWC SportsNet LA.
Say what you will of the finger-pointing and name-calling that has come to typify T-Mobile US executives, especially Twitter rock star CEO John Legere, but last week, they kind of nailed it.
BCE, the parent company of Bell Canada, is acquiring Manitoba Telecom Services for approximately $2.5 billion (CAD $3.1 billion), enhancing its presence in the Western Canadian province with a larger wireline broadband and TV footprint.
Hulu has programming agreements in place with Disney and Fox and is readying the launch a live-streamed skinny pay-TV bundle in early 2017, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Cablevision CEO James Dolan pocketed $24.6 million in executive compensation in 2015, up from $23.7 million in 2014, according to documents filed with the Securities Exchange Commission.
While Verizon boasts how it has deployed LTE Broadcast (LTE-B) technology throughout its LTE footprint, its biggest rival, AT&T, isn't so gung-ho about it.
Press Releases
- A New Slate of Cannabis Lifestyle-Themed Programming Announced From Digital-First Content Studio PRØHBTD
- USA FIBER Completes Ashburn Ring Conduit System
- Frontier Communications Reports 2016 First Quarter Results
- Frontier Announces Expansion of Fiber Technology to Hartford's North End
- Amazon Web Services Direct Connect Now Available in the EdgeConneX® Portland Edge Data Center®
- More Press Releases
Sponsored Links


text:
We expose slave masters and people smugglers in suburban Britain.
A journalist pays the ultimate price in Syria
03 Jun 2014 19:30 GMT | US & Canada, Afghanistan, Germany, Qatar, United States
The United States army has said it intends to investigate the circumstances of Bowe Bergdahl's disappearance in Afghanistan amid claims of his desertion, and anger from former comrades who risked their lives to search for him.
John McHugh, the secretary of the US army, said on Tuesday that officials would interview Bergdahl about the circumstances of his disappearance in Afghanistan once completes a rehabilitation programme in Germany.
"All other decisions will be made thereafter, and in accordance with appropriate regulations, policies and practices," said McHugh, indicating that he could face punishment based on his interviews.
Bergdahl disappeared off his base in Afghanistan in 2009 after telling comrades he was disillusioned, and was captured by Taliban-aligned fighters.
Al Jazeera's Rosiland Jordan, reporting from Washington, said that several members of Bergdahl's unit had complained in the past few days that they had risked their lives to find a man they considered a deserter.
"One man has charged that at least six soldiers were killed while looking for Bergdahl. They are all upset that the Obama administration is celebrating the return of a man who should instead, they think, be court-martialed," Jordan said.
"He's not leaving the military right now, so he will have to report to a military base for his next assignment – and any possible disciplinary actions."
'Walked away'
Bergdahl was swapped for five high-ranking Taliban prisoners on Saturday, through a deal brokered by the Qatari government. The Taliban men are now in Qatar, where their movements are said to be restricted.
On Monday, an unnamed Pentagon official was quoted by the AP news agency as saying that Bergdahl walked away from his military unit before his capture on June 30, 2009 by the Taliban fighters.
General Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the AP news agency on Tuesday that the army investigation could lead to further action.
There are a variety of offences related to an absence without proper approval, and a number of potential actions could be taken by the military.
He could be tried by court martial for desertion He could be given a non-judicial punishment for a lesser charge, such as being away without leave. He could also be given credit for time already served while he was a prisoner.
Critics of the Obama administration have meanwhile questioned the deal with the Taliban.
"The administration has invited serious questions into how this exchange went down and the calculations the White House and relevant agencies made in moving forward without consulting Congress despite assurances it would re-engage with members on both sides of the aisle," John Boehner, the speaker of the House of Representatives, said on Tuesday.
Boehner backed calls for congressional hearings on the decision to swap the prisoners.
Source: Agencies
The only US prisoner of war in Afghanistan is freed by the Taliban in exchange for five of its leaders.
Politics, US & Canada, Afghanistan, Qatar, United States
Little progress has been achieved as Pakistan and Afghanistan seek peace with the religious group.
Politics, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Qatar
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"Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable." (Psalm 145:3)
|To the Edge
|That's How It Is in Space
|Great Is the Lord (Verse Song)
|And Can It Be
|In the Beginning
|Fairest Lord Jesus
|My God Is So Great
|He Made Everything
|The Best Place
Astro is suited up and ready to go to the edge!
Get ready to blast off with the crew of the Explorer on their latest mission. Join Captain Madison, the youngest captain in the history of Star Patrol, first officer "Number One," ship's navigator Lieutenant Nova, Cosmic Academy cadet Bucky, and ship's pilot Astro as they seek to go beyond our solar system To the Edge.


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Web Design, eCommerce and Digital Marketing for Fashion, Luxury and Lifestyle Brands
Since 2006, we have helped many businesses go digital. From luxury fashion brands to pharmaceutical companies, by way of accountancy firms, our expertise is lavish, and our know-how is enviable. As a leading digital agency, we have a thorough knowledge of each of the following sectors, because the difference between a fancy sequin blouse and Paracetamol is actually quite big, in the digital world. Le plat du jour? Web design, branding, eCommerce, social media and digital marketing.
Different sectors, different stories.
We maintain fantastic relationships with our clients and keep them aware of any innovative solutions we can add to their business; we value their feedback and suggestions even months after we finish their project. Browse through our list of categories to see some examples of our work.
Some picks from our work
What people usually ask.
When and why did you start the company?
We came into this world in 2006, as an independent digital agency created from a passion of producing innovative and creative work for everyone.
Why the beard?
That's how we roll.
How much do you charge?
How long is a piece of string? It depends. Essentially digital projects vary massively in their complexity - especially with e-commerce - so if you are able to give us your budget this will help us decide on the right solution for your project. Either way, don't be shy, get in touch and let's see if we can help.
Who are your clients?
Everyone from small fashion retailers, to venture-funded startups selling £14m Picassos.
What do you like as a company?
Digital, technology, design, brands, great ideas, adding value.
What can you do?
If it's related to digital, technology, design, brands and great ideas then we can and do it! Talk to us to see for yourself. Digitise everything.
How many people are in the Appnova team?
Between London and Rome, we currently have a full-time team of 15+. In addition we have a strong team of freelancers, and strategic partners that allow us to scale up and down, as we need. More importantly, we are all focused on giving the same one-to-one dedicated service.
Where do inspirations grow?
Amidst the buzz of London, inside cafés and bars, near the bustle of market in the morning. Inspirations are everywhere. And here at 15 Maiden Lane, we strive to turn inspirations into ideas, and ideas into reality.
Where can I send a brief?
If you already have a brief and would like us to take a look please either email it to us here or use our online submission tool.
We'll come straight back to you.
Anymore questions?CONTACT US
Latest snack from our blog
The immersive luxury retail experience: Burberry, Fendi, Givenchy & Marc JacobsWhile digital has dominated the way we shop, it hasn't outweighed the merit of in-person and first-hand brand experience. So how do luxury fashion brands go about to create immersive luxury retail experience?
#InstagramAlgorithm: Will the end of Instagram's organic reach mean more brands flocking to Snapchat?As Instagram is moving to 'algorithmically sorted feeds' that rank posts against one another, will the death of Instagram's organic reach eventually encourage more brands to shift their priorities to Snapchat?
Mobile live-streaming marketing: The fall of MeerkatDespite all the publicity, the hype has calmed down (to say the least) over the past year. A recent report by L2 reveals that Meerkat in iSO ranking among social media apps has experienced a steady decline to about 400. Meanwhile, Periscope has remained within the top 10.
Generation Z : A call for a whole new marketing language [Infographic]Generation Z - 'the most influential generation in history'. Generation Z - 'the most influential generation in history'. Nevertheless, many brands and researchers are still geared towards the millennials while downplaying the Gen Z.
Hospitality web design: essential UX tweaks for a better online booking experienceOne of the challenges facing hospitality web design is to have a seamless online booking tool to compete against OTAs who are inherently adept at the digital online experience.
Meet, greet, and let's go for it
First, let's have a chat and an espresso together. Then, let's talk business: you give us a brief, we give you an idea of what we think should be done in order to turn your vision into a unique online presence.
With the right balance of creativity, efficient technology and valuable content we can find the right, bespoke solution for your business.contact us now


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Andrea Bocelli announces Nicole Scherzinger as special guest f...It's not an obvious musical match but Andrea Bocelli has announced a former Pussycat Doll as his special guest for his 3Arena Dublin concert. It's not an obvious musical match but Andrea Bocelli has announced a former Pussycat Doll as his special ... Irish Independent, 3 weeks ago
I don't deny pop. Beautiful classical music pieces too can become popular: Andrea Bocelli - Times of India, 2 weeks ago
Andrea Bocelli confirms VERY special guest for Dublin gig - Irish Examiner, 3 weeks ago
Nicole Scherzinger embraces her kooky side as she joins eccentric Broadway show afterparty in NYC
She is normally immaculately dressed - and posed. But former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger embraced her kooky side when she stepped out in New York City onLatest Nigerian News.com, 2 months ago Nicole Scherzinger cast in Dirty Dancing remake RTE Online, 1 month ago Nicole Scherzinger joins 'Dirty Dancing' TV movie Business Standard, 1 month ago Getting dirty AhmedabadMirror.com, 1 month ago
Scherzinger splits from Dimitrov
, 5:21 pm Former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger has reportedly split from toyboy tennis player Grigor Dimitrov. The 37-year-old singer was first linked to 24-year-old Dimitrov back in November, before the pair went public with their romance ...Yahoo! 7 Entertainment, 1 week ago Did tennis 'player' Dimitrov leave singer Nicole for Canadian beauty Bouchard? Mid Day, 2 days ago Nicole Scherzinger split reports 'completely false' TV3 Ireland, 1 week ago Nicole Scherzinger splits from Grigor Dimitrov - report TV3 Ireland, 1 week ago
Former Pussycat Doll tribute and beauty queen turns vlogger to give personal insight into life at law school
But will Tina Lee Robles YouTube channel help or hinder her barrister dreams? A trained dancer, a former Pussycat Doll tribute, a Global Pageant contestant, a signed part-time model — Tina Lee Robles has no doubt led an interesting life. ...Legal Cheek, 1 week ago
City of London launches wellbeing network
Pop star, dancer and choreographer encourages officers to take advantage of scheme. Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt Date - 16th April 2016 By - Martin Buhagiar - Police Oracle Former Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt joined officers to help launch ...Police Oracle, 1 week ago Kimberly Wyatt keeps workouts exciting Yahoo! News, 3 weeks ago Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt shares her 'awesome memories' of Ireland Irish Mirror, 1 month ago Workout your week with Kimberly Wyatt Latest Nigerian News.com, 2 months ago
More from: , BBC...and 2 other sources
Us Brits have inspired Ashley Roberts fashion sense! Well done UK!
Entertainment 0 Views [embedded content] Former Pussycat Doll, Ashley Roberts has said she's inspired by us Brits when it comes to fashion. Report by April Brown. 2016-03-18 Check Also Olivia Olson tells us about her new Adventure ...Global Herald, 1 month ago Ashley Roberts: 'I'm so inspired by British fashion' Yahoo! Singapore, 1 month ago Ashley Roberts shows off her runway skills in a designer dress made of 5,000 boarding passes Irish Mirror, 1 month ago
Ashley Roberts is not dating anyone from showbiz
Former Pussycat Dolls singer Ashley Roberts has revealed she is dating a "normal" guy but insists it is just early days. Roberts said she has begun a romance with a mystery guy, who doesn't work in showbusiness and isn't from London or Los Angeles, ...Business Standard, 1 month ago Ashley Roberts' 'normal' boyfriend New Hamburg Independent, 1 month ago Ashley Roberts normal boyfriend Cosmopolitan South Africa, 1 month ago Ashley Roberts drops X Factor bombshell as Simon Cowell continues search for new female presenter Irish Mirror, 1 month ago
Nicole Scherzinger -- I Got a Great Rear View ... From Downtown L.A. to the Ocean (PHOTO)
Nicole Scherzingerjust spent some of her 'X Factor' and Pussycat Dolls money on a $3.7 million Hollywood Hills bachelorette pad which has some of the best views in L.A. The 4 bedroom contemporary is 4,200 sq ft across 4 floors. It hasLatest Nigerian News.com, 2 months ago Nicole Scherzinger's 'X Factor' Return Is Now Looking Even More Likely Huffington Post UK, 3 weeks ago Nicole Scherzinger displays her refined curves and impressive abs in a skimpy snake print bikini for sizzling beach shot Latest Nigerian News.com, 1 month ago Nicole Scherzinger splashes out $3.7 million on lavish Hollywood Hills mansion Irish Mirror, 2 months ago
Kimberly Wyatt's "horrendous" acne almost cost her a place in Pussycat Dolls.NZCity, 1 month ago Kimberly Wyatt's skin struggles TV3 Ireland, 1 month ago
Kimberly Wyatt reveals love for Ireland: 'I have so many awesome memories from there'
Kimberly Wyatt has revealed that Ireland is one of her favourite places. The former Pussycat Dolls star has touched down on Irish soil numerous times with the R&B girl group and admitted she has awesome memories of being here. Ive been to ...Breaking News.ie, 1 month ago
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C++ Software Developer Jobs in the East Midlands
Jobs 1 to 4 of 4
Software Developer C++
They need to recruit an additional C++ Software Developer to join their HQ team and support and develop their existing solutions. Skills/Experience: - Graduate degree (or equivalent) in computer science, or a related field, with applicable background. - Strong development skills using C++ (MFC), plus ideally C#, SQL... - Experience with Visual...
Nottingham, Nottinghamshire -
Louis Hampshire
Salary: From £40,000 to £45,000 per annumPosted: 4 days ago
Software Developer - C++ - Kettering 45K
C++ / STL / Containers Iterators Common / Algorithms / Version control / GIT / Unix / Linux / VI Tail / grep / C++ BOOST library / C / Java / C# / BASH scripting / WebServices / Software Developer / Warehouse Management System / Automated Warehouse... GIT - Development in Unix/Linux environment (vi, tail, grep) Advantageous Skills: - C++ BOOST library - C - Java - C# - BASH scripting - WebServices.
Kettering, Northamptonshire -
Automation Resource Consultants
Salary: From £45,000 to £45,000 per annumPosted: 7 hours ago
Software Developer - C++, .NET, SQL - Kettering - Up to £50K
Software Developer - C++, .NET, SQL, ASP.NET HMTL, CSS - Kettering - £30,000 - £50,000 DOE. REF - JDC# A leading software house based in Kettering are currently seeking to appoint a software developer with skills in C++, C#, .NET, SQL, ASP.NET HMTL, CSS to join a well formed and thriving...
Kettering, Northamptonshire -
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C++ Developer/Software Engineer
Any knowledge with IOS, Windows, Android or Blackberry operating systems of interest. Any C#, XML, ,NET, or SQL Server/Oracle experience would be a bonus, as would any exposure to Java... Additional technical skills of interest include XML, PKI, .NET, or LDAP... This is a full SDLC role and will...
Lutterworth, Leicestershire -
Momentum Resourcing
Salary: up to £50,000 + Bonus + Pension + HealthcarePosted: 3 days ago
C++ Software Developer Jobs in the East Midlands


text:
ISSN 0160-5682 (Print); ISSN: 1476-9360 (Online)
Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan
Measuring the research contribution of management academics using the Hirsch-index
pp. 1143-1153(11)
Mingers, J
Optimal thresholds for fining speeders for a stationary speed-check operation when the traffic intensity is low
pp. 1154-1159(6)
Hurley, W J; Brimberg, J; Pavlov, A
Investigating technical and ecological efficiencies in the electricity generation industry: are there win-win opportunities?
pp. 1160-1172(13)
Sarkis, J; Cordeiro, J J
A decision support model for establishing an air taxi service: a case study
pp. 1173-1182(10)
Fagerholt, K; Foss, B A; Horgen, O J
The Use of Markov models as an aid to the evaluation, planning and benchmarking of Doctoral Programs⋆
pp. 1183-1190(8)
Nicholls, M G
Optimization of manufacturing systems using a neural network metamodel with a new training approach
pp. 1191-1197(7)
Dengiz, B; Alabas-Uslu, C; Dengiz, O
Quantitative problem structuring methods for multi-actor problems: an analysis of reported applications
pp. 1198-1206(9)
van der Lei, T E; Thissen, W A H
An alternative tactic to deal with the contingency of driver absenteeism
pp. 1207-1220(14)
Haughton, M A
Predicting consumer preference for fast-food franchises: a data mining approach
pp. 1221-1229(9)
Hayashi, Y; Hsieh, M-H; Setiono, R
Analysis of algorithms for an online version of the convoy movement problem
pp. 1230-1236(7)
Gopalan, R; Narayanaswamy, N S
Revised behavioural models for riskless consumer choice
pp. 1237-1243(7)
Huang, J-J
Determining the reorder point and order-up-to-level in a periodic review system so as to achieve a desired fill rate and a desired average time between replenishments
pp. 1244-1253(10)
Silver, E A; Naseraldin, H; Bischak, D P
A static-dynamic strategy for spare part inventory systems with nonstationary stochastic demand
pp. 1254-1263(10)
Hua, Z; Yang, J; Huang, F; Xu, X
Algorithms for common due-date assignment and sequencing on a single machine with sequence-dependent setup times
pp. 1264-1272(9)
Kim, J-G; Lee, D-H
Hybridizations within a graph-based hyper-heuristic framework for university timetabling problems
pp. 1273-1285(13)
Qu, R; Burke, E K
A note on parts inventory and mass customization for a two-stage JIT supply chain with zero-one type of bills of materials
pp. 1286-1291(6)
Aigbedo, H
Forecasting both time varying MTBF of fighter aircraft module and expected demand of minor parts
pp. 1292-1294(3)
Yoon, K B; Sohn, S Y
'Preventive maintenance scheduling of multi-cogeneration plants using integer programming'
pp. 1295-1297(3)
Alidaee, B; Wang, H
Managing the tensions created by mixing methods: comments for Eden et al from a critical systems perspective
pp. 1297-1299(3)
Jackson, M
Book Selection
pp. 1300-1303(4)


text:
Hidden dangers
ARE operational risk managers losing interest in reputational risk? Two years ago, after Enron and WorldCom, after 'Spitzer risk' had damaged brands and balance sheets, it seemed that 'reputational risk' was all that operational risk managers could talk about. Many said that preventing significant reputational risk damage to their firms was the primary justification for investment in an op risk infrastructure. Now, not so. Although operational risk managers may still pay lip service to the idea...
More on Operational Risk
7 days in 60 seconds
Leverage, credit risk and algorithmic trading
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STREET: New Balance 99X Series Video
By Julian Loh, July 9, 2013
The 99X series that began in 1982 with the 990 running shoe was the first $100 sneaker ever and a turning point for the company. Through the various iterations, the 99X series was always a showcase for New Balance's latest technical innovations and Made in USA craftsmanship.
As the company is set for another turning point in the iconic series through the introduction of modern Revlite tech being fused into the classic 996 model, New Balance Japan Lifestyle Team Manager, Tetsuya Shono, gives us a quick narration on the series' history, with additional comments from New Balance USA Senior Product Manager, Luis Navarro, as well as Chairman of the company himself, James S. Davis.
PUMA Spring / Summer'16 Collection Lookbook 2nd Drop
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Fjallraven 'Kanken' Backpacks @ Very Wooonderland
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text:
|Paizo Pathfinder® Paizo Games
|About Pathfinder Society Events Factions FAQ Get Involved! GM Resources Player Resources Products
Pathfinder Society Scenario Intro 1: First Steps—Part I: In Service to Lore (PFRPG) PDF
Paizo Inc.(based on 31 ratings)
A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for 1st level characters.
In your first mission as a Pathfinder agent, the head of the Grand Lodge sends you on a number of missions throughout the metropolis of Absalom, pitting you against traps,thieves, and even an unruly devil, all in the pursuit of knowledge.
Written by Adam Daigle.
This scenario is designed for play in Pathfinder Society Organized Play, but can easily be adapted for use with any world. This scenario is compliant with the Open Game License (OGL) and is suitable for use with the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game.
Product Availability
Will be added to your My Downloads Page immediately upon purchase of PDF.
Are there errors or omissions in this product information? Got corrections? Let us know at email@example.com.
See Also:
Gen Con 2016 Scenario List Out Yet?,
Community Gameday Spotlight: (PbP)Year of the Shadow Lodge: June 7 - July 20, 2016,
Exchange Faction Goals for the less scrupulous entrepeneur,
Season 8 Roleplaying Guild Guide,
Printing out ALL pregens?,
A legitimate request to ban the Ring of Seven Lovely Colors,
PFS Flagbearer (feat)?,
Rumors start circulating around the grand lodge,
Map of Flat rolling surfaces where PFS is played,
Boon Trading Thread,
Gen Con Partners with Paizo on Three-Year Co-Sponsorship,
Geek & Sundry teams up with Pathfinder & Syrinscape to bring you Critical Role One Shot!,
Trapdoor Technologies Announces License to Create Playbook App for Pathfinder Roleplaying Game,
Pathfinder RPG Charity Marathon Raises $250,000 for Charities, and Becomes Record-Breaking Humble Book Bundle,
Dynamite Entertainment, Paizo, and Humble Bundle Pack New Bundle With Over 30 Pathfinder Comics!,


text:
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. — Authorities say a man from Germany is dead after a kayaking accident at Grand Canyon National Park.
Park officials say 43-year-old Hans Uhl was part of a commercial river trip.
The group had just started its multiday trip on the Colorado River on Wednesday when park officials received a call around 2 p.m. about an unconscious kayaker at Badger Rapids.
Authorities say Uhl's kayak capsized and he was unable to right himself.
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A safety boat was able to reach the kayak, but authorities say Uhl lost consciousness and couldn't be resuscitated.
An investigation is being conducted by the National Park Service and the Coconino County medical examiner.
Uhl's hometown in Germany wasn't immediately available Thursday.
Uhl is the second German tourist to die in the park this week.
Authorities say medics were unable to revive 64-year-old Wolfgang Hans-Joachim Glode on Monday night after he was reported to be unconscious.
Glode was vacationing with his wife from Sievershagen, Germany.
Earlier this month, a Seattle woman, Catherine Newman, died on a Grand Canyon rafting trip of apparent allergic reaction.


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HN-HUD142 Gold Medal
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text:
(Vancouver, B.C.) - The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club took part in Safeway Canada's latest community initiative by partnering with Easter Seals Canada and Special Olympics Canada to launch a fundraising and awareness building campaign in support of Canadians with physical and intellectual disabilities.
Through the month of April, Canada Safeway will be asking their shoppers to help support both Easter Seals and Special Olympics across Canada through a number of awareness campaigns.
On Tuesday, the Vancouver Canadians were able to help Safeway Canada with their annual Umbrella Decorating Challenge. Located at Safeway in downtown Vancouver, C's mascots Bob Brown Bear, Chef Wasabi and Ms. BC Roll joined a number of local celebrities including B.C. home building icon Shell Busey to decorate a number of bright and fun umbrellas.
"Helping our neighbours living with a diverse range of abilities has long been a Safeway priority," siad Canada Safeway President and COO Chuck Mulveena.
"When we were asked to join in this community 'call to action', for the Vancouver Canadians, it was for certain that we would be here to help," added Canadians Manager, Community Relations Jeff Holloway.
Last year, over $1.6 million was raised during the annual campaign which sent hundreds of children with disabilities to Easter Seals camps and provided support for local programs offered through Special Olympics.
Today on MiLB.com
Top Stories on MiLB.com
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- MiLB's unique dishes served up in Food Fight


text:
World Bulletin/News Desk
Canada's foreign affairs minister said that Canada commended Turkey on successfully stopping shipment of weapons to Syria.
A statement by John Baird said that Canada has continually supported efforts to prevent weapons from reaching Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime, amid what he described as the leader's "bloody struggle to cling to power."
"We commend Turkey on successfully stopping one such shipment today," Baird said. "These efforts will help limit the Assad regime's ability to kill civilians in Syria."
Baird added that Canada wants the bloodshed in Syria to end quickly, and urged the UN Security Council to push for further sanctions as well as an arms embargo "to bring pressure to bear on the Assad regime."
Deal will cover EU-Turkey agreement on readmitting migrants
'I don't think I will be a candidate in the next congress in the current circumstances,' PM Davutoglu says
Deputy foreign minister says Turkish ties to EU stronger than before
Thursday's papers cover claims that Turkey's ruling AK Party will hold an extraordinary congress
Rumours have been rife with the imminent departure of Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu
Rockets fired from Syria have hit buildings in Kilis
Rocket fire on Kilis province will not be left unanswered, says President Erdogan
UN Population Fund Turkey Representative Kulessa says country is working hard to shelter some 3 million refugees
'We are ready to take all measures that we need, both inside Turkey and outside, to provide for our own security,' PM Davutoglu says
Turkey believes Bosnia can be a major production base, for the European market, and for Chinese investment, says deputy PM
Ahmet Davutoglu says terror group failed to honor committments during 'solution process'
ISIL has launched two more devices at Kilis on Wednesday, prompting artillery fire from Turkish forces
Domestic papers cover major anti-fraud operation which saw over 100 people – including pharmacists, medics and nurses – held
More than 30 journalists call for release of colleagues detained by Egyptian police
A new Turkish Airlines air route will have flights will run three times a week
Latest bombardment marks almost a week of indiscriminate attacks on border city