OFPA convention set for March 29-30

March 3, 2004

Contact Information:

By Dave Edmark, Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station
479-575-5647 / dedmark@uark.edu

SPRINGDALE, Ark. --- "Protecting Our Customers/Protecting Our Business" is the theme for the Ozark Food Processors Association 99th annual convention and exposition March 29 and 30 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Springdale.


"Our responsibilities as managers are all about taking care of customers, which in turn, takes care of business," said Rick Roop, OFPA president. "The program committee has pulled together an outstanding group of speakers representing science, security, purchasing, product development and media relations to discuss diverse issues facing our industry."

Activities begin on March 29 with a golf tournament at 9 a.m. at Shadow Valley Country Club in Rogers. Events shift to the Holiday Inn at 3 p.m. for the first Food and Beverage Innovations Competition among University of Arkansas students. There will be a wine reception and dinner at 6 p.m. followed by announcement of scholarship and competition winners and a performance by magician/comedian Bo Gerard.

The program begins at 8:30 a.m. March 30 with remarks by Dr. Milo Shult, UA vice president for agriculture. Speakers during the morning session will be:
  • Dr. Gary Smith, Colorado State University distinguished professor, on "Industry Response to the North American BSE Dilemma";
  • Rod Wheeler, executive director of the National Food Processors Association's Office of Food Security and Emergency Preparedness, on "Food Security, Product Integrity and Emergency Preparedness";
  • Dr. Nancy Nagle, Wal-Mart Stores director of product development, on "Taking Responsibility for Your Supplier", and
  • Chris Schein, TXU Corp. director of public and media relations, on "Live at 5: How to Protect the Brand When Media Calls."
The business luncheon at noon will include summary reports on current issues in the food industry. The exposition will run from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. and feature products, services and equipment on display from more than 100 exhibitors.

For additional information on exhibits and the convention, contact Justin Morris, OFPA executive vice president, at 479-575-4607.