Review of Oct 21 address by Kathleen MerriganDeputy Secretary of AgricultureISU Memorial Union, Sun RoomMs. Merrigan was introduced by an warmly enthusiastic organic farmer, who told us she had asked organic farmers to bring their sleeping bags and sleep on the floor of her Washington apartment so they could afford to be in Washington to advocate for their needs. He also related the story of a late night beer session during which she listened carefully to what the farmers had to say and at 2am told them she would change her position. The next morning, she announced the change.She talked about the Know Your Farmer Know Your Food website that is being developed under her leadership, It's purpose is to help farmers and consumers connect on a local level. It is designed to help facilitate the creativity and implement the ideas of people throughout the U.S. Although it is still being constructed, there is a good deal of information already available. You may access it at:If IOWA TOPICS doesn't allow the url to be posted, go to USDA and scroll down to the tan icon with the bright red tomato on it.Her talk was geared to students, especially young farmers. She left a generous amount of time for questions, and in response to most, asked the questioner to give her contact information so she could connect them to groups that could help.In response to a question about the cost of farmland, for example, she mentioned that there are organizations geared to helping prospective farmers connect with farmers who are on the way to retirement and have no children who want to carry on with their family farm.Peggy MurdockAmes- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - To unsubscribe from the IOWA-TOPICS list, send any message to: [log in to unmask] Check out our Listserv Lists support site for more information: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/faq.asp To view the Sierra Club List Terms & Conditions, see: http://www.sierraclub.org/lists/terms.asp