GIFFORD, Ill. — How will this year’s presidential election impact the grain markets? What new transportation problems will surface for grain growers? How will the debt situations in Europe and the United States affect what farmers do best – feeding the world?

Those are some of the key questions to be addressed by a panel of regional commodities experts during the 18th annual Midwest Ag Expo next month in the east-central Illinois town of Gifford.

The commodity panel made its debut at the expo last year, and show manager Gary Manke said that judging by the size of the crowd and hour-long discussion, the panel was a hit.

“After doing this for 18 years, one thing that stands out is how well-prepared ag producers are,” Manke said. “The commodities panel was very informative, and the feedback we received was positive.”

The panel’s moderator, WYXY-FM 91.1 Farm Director Gale Cunningham, again will serve as host of the panel with four regional experts.

“It really went well last year, so we’ll follow pretty much the same format. This year, though, rather than me holding the microphone for anyone with questions we’ll have index cards for everyone so they can write down their questions at any time for the panel,” he said.

Manke said Cunningham’s reputation as an ag journalist plays well into the panel format. WYXY-FM is a 50,000-watt station based in Champaign. “He’s engaging, knows the ag industry well and he’s well-respected,” Manke said.

The panel discussion will take place at 2:30 p.m. Jan. 24, the first day of the two-day expo. Panelists will include Pete Manhart, owner of Bates Commodities in Normal, Ill.; Dave Prahl with Premier Cooperative in Champaign; Matt Payne with Bunge Milling in Danville; and Jenny Springer, a market advisor with Andersons Grain in Champaign.

“We’ll follow this pattern in regards to commodities: where we’ve been and why; where we are now and why; and where we’re going and why,” Cunningham said.

“With the volatility we’ve seen in the markets recently, everyone is wondering what’s going to happen short-term and long-term. We’ll have some handouts for everyone and I’m sure we’ll have again a great, free-flowing conversation.”

There is no charge for admission or parking to the expo, which will take place at Gordyville USA, located east of Rantoul on Route 136. For more information, contact Manke or his assistant, Julie Roisum, at 608-240-4700.