The Independent Bakers Association's (IBA) 35th Annual Meeting brought members together on Capitol Hill to discuss key issues pertinent to the baking industry. Meeting attendees had an opportunity to meet with various members of Congress, as well as listen to a host of speakers on topics such as national security, commodity speculation, labor, taxes and energy policy, among others.

Jim Hess, Horizon Milling, updated IBA membership with a wheat and grains crop forecast. He noted that although acres of wheat planted have been in a continuous downward trend, the amount of wheat harvested has actually increased because of improved yields. On the other hand, soy and corn production are not meeting the demands of the market.

The meeting closed with a headliner breakfast featuring Congessman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), who spoke on two critical topics-healthcare and energy. The Congressman expessed disappointment in possible cap and trade legislation, calling it “cap and tax.”

IBA looks forward to more policy discussions at its fall meeting in New Orleans, Oct. 15-16.