THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE Winter 2020
A Breath of Fresh Air Working to revolutionize clean cooking
2020
Looking Back on a Decade of Innovation
big ideas
open doors to big solutions POET.COM
When the first POET plant opened over thirty years ago, it opened the door to endless world-changing possibilities. Beyond that threshold we’ve discovered a world of innovative renewable energy solutions. Biofuels, nutrient-rich proteins and oil alternatives are just the beginning.
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FEATURES 12
42
A Breath of Fresh Air
Biofuels Education Shapes Tomorrow’s Leaders
Through Mission Breathe, Seeds of Change is working to revolutionize clean cooking
22 2020: Looking Back on a Decade of Innovation
30 Biofuels Addressing Fuel Affordability and Access Affordable fuel is an important part of ensuring access to opportunities. Biofuels help fill that gap for low- and moderate-income families
New Biofuels in the Classroom course includes STEM-based activities, biofuels history and discussions on policy, environmental benefits, economic effects and more
46 Changing Lives Through New Annual Corporate Sponsorship Novozymes signs on as the first corporate sponsor for Seeds of Change
Visit VitalByPOET.com for exclusive online content.
Cover photo by Brian Koch
COLUMNS 04
In Sight
By Jeff Broin
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Farm Fresh
by Brian Hefty
11
Mechanics Corner
Automotive Advice from the Under the Hood radio show
34
Nascar® Update
by Ryan Welsh
56
Out Of Left Field
by Scott Johnson
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COPYRIGHT
Policy Corner
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Prime the Pump
36
Energy For Life
38
Renew
50
People of POET
POET’s Vital magazine is an important conduit to share how POET is moving our country and our world from depending on fossil fuels to producing sustainable resources from the Earth. We will represent the voices of producers and biofuels supporters, as well as educate and inform readers about agriculture and industry knowledge, opportunities and the power of the human spirit.
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Vital is published quarterly by POET, LLC and other individuals or entities. All materials within are subject to copyrights owned by POET. POET, JIVE, Dakota Gold, BPX, ProPellet and other associated designs and logos are registrations or trademarks of POET, LLC. Growth Energy is a registration or trademark of Growth Energy, a non-profit corporation organized under the laws of the District of Columbia. Any reproduction of all or part of any document found in Vital is expressly prohibited, unless POET or the copyright owner of the material has expressly granted its prior written consent to so reproduce, retransmit or republish the material. All other rights reserved. For questions, contact the POET legal department at 605.965.2200. The opinions and statements expressed by content contributors and advertisers in Vital are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of POET. Neither POET nor its third-party content providers shall be liable for any inaccuracies contained within Vital, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. ©2020 POET, LLC. All rights reserved. Publication Design & Layout: Cassie Medema hello@newover.com
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Taking care of future generations depends on plants like yours.
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IN SIGHT
2020: Clear Vision for a New Decade by Jeff Broin, Founder and CEO of POET
For POET, the past decade was full of challenges, triumphs,
The recent weather catastrophes have been devastating
innovation and growth. Advancements in research and
for many, but they also have served a purpose in sparking
development refined our process and led to new bioproducts
critical discussions about climate change. And those
that will help us continue to lead the Renewable Revolution
conversations are posing questions that we can answer.
and create new markets for grain. Our policy team and legislative champions worked tirelessly to amplify our
As many of you know, one of the leading contributors to
voice in Washington, D.C. And most importantly, we’ve
climate change is the burning of fossil fuels to power
risen above the radar in making our name and our mission
vehicles, homes and industry. We need to return to our roots,
known across the country.
literally, to fix the problems that oil has created. And the advancements we’ve made in technology and microbiology
I truly believe we can attribute our success to our people
here at POET now make it possible to get many of the things
at POET, and I am extremely grateful to work alongside
we need to power our world from nature.
such a talented and dedicated group of individuals in this mission to change the world. Thanks to all of you, we made exceptional progress in the 2010s, and there is much more to come. However, to say this past year was a challenging one would be an understatement. The weather patterns that struck across the globe were, in many cases, unprecedented. They hit especially hard close to home and profoundly affected farmers across the Heartland, where torrential rains caused late planting and, in some parts of the Midwest, no planting at all. As a result, many farm families faced intense hardship.
Our competition in the oil industry is aware that agriculture can compete with them and is doing everything in their
In addition, the EPA took it upon itself to drive demand destruction for ethanol and corn on more than one occasion, further impacting the already struggling ag economy. Although President Trump and several legislative allies stepped in to support us, we continue to have little faith in the EPA’s will to address rural economic hardship and clean up the environment, as they have consistently ignored one of the only readily available and realistic solutions to these pressing issues: biofuels.
power to mislead the public and our politicians. They have greenwashed their advertising, written false studies, manipulated federal emissions models, and even touted fuels that don’t exist to distract the public from the truth. They are pushing the message that ag is damaging the environment and is a major part of the problem. Nothing could be further from the truth. Agriculture is the solution, and it’s time that we take our seat at the table. The war between oil and agriculture that I have been talking
But 2020 marks the dawn of not only a new year, but a new decade full of untapped potential, and despite the challenges of 2019, I remain optimistic about our role in creating a brighter future for the world.
Now, in the coming decade, we need to educate the world that the major near-term solution to climate change is to significantly decrease our usage of oil and its derivatives by replacing them with ag-based biofuels and bioproducts, which will not only help the environment, but provide farmers with access to new and expanded markets and create a much-needed boost to their incomes.
about for years is in full force, and we need to win. If we succeed, we can avoid disaster. If we fail, we may see global devastation sooner than many predict. The future of the world depends on our victory. Let’s go get the job done!
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POLICY CORNER
2020 RVO Finalized; E15 Infrastructure Support in the Queue On Thursday, Dec. 19, the Environmental Protection
election is put in jeopardy if they do not deliver on the
Agency (EPA) released the final annual Renewable
critical promise that farmers and biofuels workers are
Volume Obligations (RVO) for 2020, as required by
counting on.
the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. The announcement follows a rollercoaster of several months
Notably, on the day of the EPA announcement,
of meetings, rulemakings and negotiations among
Administrator Wheeler stated that “President Trump
industry stakeholders and policymakers, including
committed
President Trump’s announcement of a biofuels package
requirements would be expanded in 2020. At the EPA we
in early October.
are delivering on that promise and ensuring a net of 15
to
our
nation’s
farmers
that
biofuel
billion gallons of conventional biofuel are blended into While the final 2020 RVO announcement does not fully
the nation’s fuel supply.”
align with the president’s comprehensive biofuels announcement and subsequent negotiations, it is a step in
The long process resulting in this final rule started
the right direction and will help begin to put agriculture
earlier this summer. On July 5, the EPA issued its annual
and biofuels back on solid footing after historic weather
proposed rules for RVOs. However, in August, the EPA
events and challenging policy developments this past
approved 31 small refinery exemptions (SREs), dropping
year.
blending levels significantly. On Oct. 4, President Trump announced a comprehensive biofuels package that
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President Trump, U.S. Department of Agriculture
contained provisions to achieve 15 billion gallons by
Secretary Sonny Purdue, and EPA Administrator Andrew
accounting for a rolling average of waived gallons over
Wheeler have all committed publicly, directly to POET
the past three years. The package also included critical
and other industry stakeholders that this rule will
provisions on infrastructure, labeling and fuel survey
deliver on the promise that 15 billion gallons means 15
modifications that would help build the market for E15.
billion gallons. While the EPA’s approach to fully realize
Shortly after, on Oct. 15, the EPA released a supplemental
those gallons will rely on additional actions in 2020,
2020 RVO rule that did not follow the President’s
the administration knows that the outcome of the 2020
commitment to the rolling average and instead would
VITALBYPOET.COM
POLICY CORNER
NEW yEAR-ROUND
EPA INCREASES GALLONS ABOVE THE RVO TO ACCOUNT FOR THE SMALL REFINERy ExEMPTIONS
E15
ANNOUNCEMENT
15
BILLION GALLONS
RVO - 15 BILLION GALLONS OF ETHANOL SMALL REFINERy ExEMPTIONS
x
account for waived gallons based on the Department of Energy (DOE) recommendations for granting SREs. This was concerning because EPA waivers have not previously aligned with DOE recommendations. The final rule importantly added language favorable to our industry that acknowledges that RVO levels will be set above 15 billion gallons to account for future issuing of small refinery exemptions, resulting in a net 15 billion gallons of biofuels blended. South Dakota Senator John Thune stated that “In addition to reducing the number of waivers and having more accountability, I am pleased to see EPA taking additional steps to build off our win to permit the year-round sale of E15, like by supporting an infrastructure program and reducing labeling requirements.” The completion of the 2020 RVO levels means that our attention can now turn to these remaining aspects of the President’s Oct. 4 biofuels package announcement, including deploying an infrastructure package, changing the pump label, and reforming the fuel survey. These provisions together will provide a needed lifeline for farm families by building out an additional grain market in E15, which has the potential to create 2 billion bushels
The last few months have been a bumpy road for agriculture and biofuels. While the final rule is different from our desired outcome it does address some of the concerns we expressed through the rulemaking process. We appreciate the commitment you made to engaging in the political process to ensure POET’s voice was heard. Thank you to everyone who submitted a comment, made a call, donated to POET PAC, or spoke out on social media.
of new corn demand and 7 billion gallons of new biofuel demand.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
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POET PAC
2019 YEAR IN REVIEW $531,051 invested by POET PAC members
#1
POET PAC holds the title as the largest renewable energy political action committee thanks to the investment of engaged members!
1,652 1,412 363
Members Strong
POET Team members and 240 farmers, investors and other industry advocates
New members in 2019
564 $321
Increased their investment
Average annual POET PAC investment
13% PAC Support goes cross-country!
Other*
47% Democrat
PAC members live in these 19 states.
40% Republican
PAC Dollars in Action POET PAC is bipartisan and does not consider a candidate’s political affiliation when making contribution decisions. PAC dollars are strategically utilized to support federal candidates who support issues that are important to the biofuel and agricultural industries. *Political committees, industry and advocacy PACs
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POET PAC
2019 POET Biorefinery POET PAC Award Winners POET PAC
POET PAC Team Member
Growth Award
Participation Awards Glenville, MN
Given to a biorefinery with the most growth over last three years.
Caro, MI
100%
POET Biorefining – Glenville, MN
94%
Hanlontown, IA
100%
Alexandria, IN
98%
Corning, IA
100%
Increased Giving Award Given to the location who had the most team members increase their contribution in 2019.
POET PAC
Contribution Leaders Given to the top three biorefineries who contributed the most in 2019
POET Research Center
POET Biorefining –
POET Biorefining –
Hudson, SD
Alexandria, IN
POET Biorefining –
Hanlontown, IA
POET PAC PARTNERS CLUB This special club was designed in 2019 to give our industry partners an opportunity to join the PAC. Their investment will amplify our voice in Washington and it will help change the world. The following members express why they care about the future
“As the world faces the impact of continual climate change, it is critically important to elevate biofuels as the true viable alternative. For over 20 years, Victory Energy has worked hand in hand with biofuel producers to be at the forefront of bringing products and solutions that answer the need to reduce the catastrophic effects of on-going climate change. We’re proud to be an integral partner in helping POET PAC to address these issues and transform the world for the better.” John Viscup, Jr., Victory Energy “As a longtime advocate and ambassador for the ethanol industry, I felt it was important to become a member of the POET PAC Partner’s club. The work that the club conducts day in and day out to educate policy leaders in Washington D.C. to fight for the future of biofuels is crucial, especially in today’s climate. As a collective industry, NASCAR just surpassed 15 million miles run on American Ethanol fuel, under the most demanding circumstances imaginable. That’s an impressive statistic that I’m proud to align myself with. The future is bright for the agriculture and biofuels industries and I’m proud to advocate the overall efforts!” Richard Childress, Richard Childress Racing
of biofuels and Ag.
To join POET PAC visit www.poetpac.com or call 605-965-2377
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FARM FRESH
A Farmer’s View on Carbon Footprint by Brian Hefty Climate change and carbon footprint are two phrases you
can hold more water and nutrients. More organic matter
now hear about all the time, but what do they mean, and
usually translates to more yield for farmers, as well.
are farmers making things better or worse? How much carbon are crops actually using? That’s a great The definition of carbon footprint, according to the
question, and quite frankly, every source I’ve looked at
Merriam-Webster dictionary is, “The amount of greenhouse
seems to have a different number. One study from back
gases and specifically carbon dioxide emitted by something
in 2007 at Michigan State University said an acre of corn
(such as a person’s activities or a product’s manufacture
used roughly 18 tons per acre. Multiply that times the 90+
and transport) during a given period.”
million acres of corn produced in the United States, and you can see how just that one crop can make a huge difference
Carbon dioxide is the top “greenhouse” gas talked about
in helping reduce climate change! While I can’t find any
when it comes to climate change. In roughly the last 250
exact figures on how much carbon crops are using, here
years, the earth has warmed between 1 and 2 degrees, so
are some things I do know. Corn is a much more massive
yes, the climate is changing. There are many creators of
plant than most crops we raise in the United States, and it
carbon dioxide that could be causing part of this, including
finishes with a lot more carbon in total, by the time you
forest fires, burning coal and other fossil fuels for energy
figure the roots, stalks, leaves and grain. In other words,
production and transportation, volcanic eruptions and of
corn is a great crop to produce if you want to sequester
course, humans and animals that live on our planet. Since
carbon dioxide. Higher yields mean more carbon dioxide
our world population is growing, just the fact that we (and
gets used. In my opinion, this is one of the big answers to
all our animals) breathe in oxygen and emit carbon dioxide
climate change. While most people are focused on reducing
is a part of our problem. Many contend that a reduction
emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses,
in carbon dioxide will solve global warming and eliminate
I think it’s important to look at the other side and how we
climate change, so here’s the great news. As farmers, we
can use more carbon dioxide.
can help reduce carbon dioxide levels! In summary, it is true that climate change is occurring, Plants that farmers produce do the exact opposite of
but it is also true that farmers hold a big key to reducing
what humans and animals do. Plants breathe in carbon
greenhouse gasses and climate change by increasing crop
dioxide and emit oxygen. Think of it this way. A plant at
yields, especially with big “carbon users” like corn.
harvest is loaded with carbon. That carbon came from carbon dioxide in the air. Much of that carbon can be stored in the soil, building soil organic matter for example, when managed properly. That’s carbon sequestration. The best ways farmers can and do build soil organic matter is by reducing tillage, planting crops with lots of roots (think corn, for example) and using cover crops. Higher amounts of organic matter in the soil mean that land is less prone to erosion and compaction, and it
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MECHANICS CORNER
Common Ethanol Myths Automotive advice from The Under the Hood radio show We’ve been talk show hosts for 30 years now, but we’re also
Fact: After replacing these parts, the car ran like new, so
mechanics and parts people working in a shop and selling
this was a maintenance issue and except for the spark plugs
parts to consumers. This gives us a hands-on perspective
these parts do not have any contact with the fuel.
as to what parts and systems are working or failing and why. Working on engines is more than just replacing parts; a quality repair means finding out why it failed and correcting that issue before putting the vehicle back into service.
3. Ethanol causes my truck to overheat on hot days. Myth: Using ethanol causes an engine to run hotter.
Over the decades we have seen a lot of issues! From large trucks to small engines and everything imaginable in between. Many of our customers got advice from another place or came to their own conclusion only to find out the problem was completely different. One of the top concerns customers come in with is related to the fuel. “Maybe I got some bad fuel” or specifically, “could it be the ethanol I’m using?” Let’s go through some of the myths we have seen customers mention when coming in for repairs.
1. Ethanol caused my gas to freeze and my car won’t start.
This is a 2001 Ford truck with a V8 engine and fuel injection. A closed loop fuel injected engine can add or take away fuel to give it the perfect mixture and keep cylinder temps in check when used in quantities recommended by the manufacturer. Ethanol has less BTUs than gasoline so it by nature burns cooler so we know fuel can’t be the cause if it truly has e15 in the tank. Fact: A test drive did show overheating when outside temps were over 80 degrees at highway speeds and a close look at the engine revealed that there was a heavy build up of dirt in between the radiator and A/C condenser where it could not be seen. We washed it out and the car was back to
Myth: During cold weather the ethanol in the fuel caused
normal with no other changes.
water to be absorbed and the tank had so much water in it These are just a few of the things we have seen hands-on
that the fuel could not flow.
in our shop. These repairs were all done several years ago, Fact: The car did not have a fuel problem at all, it had a
and no further issues have developed with them due to fuel.
faulty fuel pump likely caused by the dirty fuel filter which had never been replaced and the vehicle had over 100k
The Under the Hood radio show is America’s Favorite Car-
miles on it. When the pump was removed from the tank
talk show heard on over 230 stations and podcast. The Motor
there was no sign of water in the tank.
Medics, Russ, Chris and Shannon, are three great friends having fun and offering a wide range of automotive advice
2. My car won’t run right, and I can hardly drive it. It stalls and the check engine light is on. My mechanic said it was the ethanol blends I’ve been using.
without the aid of instudio computers or reference guides.
Myth: Using ethanol is causing the poor running all by itself. We inspected the car and with 140k miles found the spark plugs and coils worn-out, the air filter nearly plugged and a failed mass air flow sensor.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
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A Breath of Fresh Air Through Mission Breathe, Seeds of Change is working to revolutionize clean cooking by Miranda Broin
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id you know that over 3
day? Or that the demand for those fuels
to individuals living in developing
billion people still cook
is a leading driver of deforestation,
countries, particularly women and
their meals on open
with over 50% of all wood harvested
children as they tend to spend more
flames
worldwide being used as fuel?
time in the home. More than 4 million
stoves powered by solid
or
inefficient
Cooking with solid fuels also results
deaths are attributed to indoor air
fuels like charcoal and wood every
in one of the greatest health threats
pollution
VITALBYPOET.COM
each
year—that’s
more
The need for a sustainable clean cooking solution is universal but unfortunately has long lacked the awareness and international support it
deserves.
That’s
why
Mission
Breathe, one of three core programs supported by Seeds of Change, has been working since 2014 to improve the health and living conditions of families in developing nations by eliminating
indoor
air
pollution
through access to cookstoves powered by clean-burning biofuel. “Cooking with solid fuels is a prevalent issue, and one not often directly
addressed,”
said
Alicia
ElMamouni, Seeds of Change Director. “As it becomes increasingly clear that there is a huge need for clean energy, who better than Seeds of Change to be a major part of the solution? POET has long been a proponent for a cleaner planet, and this aligns well with the company’s goals while also tackling significant
social
and
economic
issues.” The myriad benefits that ethanol has as a cooking fuel mirror those it has as a transportation fuel: it’s cleaner, healthier, more cost-effective and more practical. Biofuel cookstoves are truly the best, most viable alternative to solid fuels and address all facets of the indoor air pollution epidemic. First and most importantly, clean cookstoves are far superior in terms Mozambican woman uses a cookstove like those provided through Mission Breathe; they are powered by clean-burning biofuel.
of health risks—because there are none. While charcoal smoke, for instance,
emits
methane,
carbon
monoxide, hydrocarbons and other harmful particulate matter, ethanol’s emissions are virtually nonexistent, save for a little water vapor and
than the amount caused by malaria,
Saharan Africa alone, nearly 80% of
carbon dioxide. That’s a literal breath
tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined.
individuals residing in urban areas
of fresh air in comparison to the cloud
It
this
(approximately 380 million people)
of smoke that constantly permeates
rural
are still cooking with solid fuels,
most homes in countries like Kenya
communities; however, city dwellers
thickening the smog of airborne
and Mozambique.
are greatly impacted as well. In sub-
toxins that blankets most large cities.
And the cookstoves are just as
is
problem
often is
assumed restricted
that to
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
13
beneficial to the health of the planet.
to maintain an affordable price point,
While they do produce some carbon
and the subsequent ethanol fuel
dioxide, the impact is minimal and
purchases cost less, last longer and
largely negated as the crops grown
cook faster than solid fuels.
to produce ethanol utilize the gas.
Biofuel
In addition, every stove offsets four
potential to stimulate the economy
tons of carbon each year it is in use,
at all levels. This new market for
making
them
indisputably
cookstoves
have
more
ethanol will require higher volumes
Earth-friendly than their wood- and
of production and therefore generate
charcoal-burning counterparts.
demand for agriculture across the
Furthermore,
no
globe, initiating synergetic growth
need for wood to be used as fuel,
for the ag and biofuels industries.
there’s no need to cut down trees.
Plus, as more and more farmers find
Biofuels like ethanol are produced
success through Seeds of Change’s
from crops that are already being
Mission Grow program and add to the
grown on existing farmland, whereas
existing 20-billion-bushel worldwide
even reduced-wood stoves, which
surplus
are another popular cooking option,
ethanol market to accommodate that
contribute to global greenhouse gas
surplus will be essential. As demand
emissions and deforestation. And
grows, both ethanol and cookstove
while deforestation is widely known
manufacturing facilities will increase
as a contributor to climate change, it
production and storefronts will open
also plays a lesser-known role in other
to sell stoves and fuel, creating local
pandemic issues.
jobs in manufacturing, marketing and
For example, mass tree removal
sales.
causes soil erosion, nutrient depletion
Perhaps the most important impact
and, in some cases, desertification,
of clean cooking is the social benefit
making land that was once arable
it offers. By creating a clean home
unproductive
and
environment
countries
become
to
when
there’s
causing more
many
of
grain,
and
expanding
reducing
the
time
and
spent on chores, there is increased
more susceptible to food insecurity.
ability to learn and work. Women and
Additionally, those same countries
children — who are typically tasked
then also lack adequate vegetation
with gathering fuel, cooking and clean
for protection and are extremely
up — have more hours in the day to
vulnerable when natural disasters hit.
attend school or work and don’t have
This is especially evident in countries
to risk their safety to venture far from
like Haiti, where less than 5% of the
home to procure firewood or charcoal.
forest cover remains.
Families are able to save money that
As more wood is cut down and supply
would have otherwise been spent on
dwindles, the prices of firewood and
solid fuel (or health care as a result
charcoal go up and exacerbate the
of its usage) and can allot more funds
economic disparity experienced by
to important expenses such as food,
families who already struggle to afford
clothing and education.
everyday necessities as it is. Biofuel
Put
cookstoves are far more economical
can improve the quality of countless
and can help lower household energy
lives, and that in itself is more than
costs in the long run. Seeds of Change
enough reason to advocate for their
provides assistance to lower the cost
widespread adoption.
simply,
biofuel
cookstoves
of each initial stove purchase in order
14
the
VITALBYPOET.COM
As it becomes increasingly clear that there is a huge need for clean energy, who better than Seeds of Change to be a major part of the solution? POET has long been a proponent for a cleaner planet, and this aligns well with the company’s goals while also tackling significant social and economic issues. Alicia ElMamouni, Seeds of Change Director
A YAZU representative sells cookstoves and fuel at a local storefront in Mozambique.
A storefront in Mozambique sells cookstoves and biofuel to locals. Mission Breathe offers support for small business startups to help with infrastructure and some initial costs. This stimulates the economy by providing jobs and increases access to affordable, clean and safe biofuel cookstoves. THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
15
Seeds of Change is supporting a pilot program in Mozambique, Africa through their Mission Breathe initiative.
16
Sustainability is always the goal, and our projects are meant to eventually stand on their own so we can move on and help more people.
“We founded Seeds of Change on
said businesses with their initial bulk
the ‘teach a man to fish’ principle
stove purchases to free up working
— giving people the resources they
capital. The loan is repaid as stoves are
need to create their own solutions to
sold, and as the fund is replenished
poverty. Sustainability is always the
it can be transferred to help finance
goal, and our projects are meant to
another startup business in the sector,
eventually stand on their own so we
enabling the project to flourish.
can move on and help more people,”
“In addition to inventory, initial
said Jeff Broin, Seeds of Change Co-
infrastructure costs can be daunting
Founder and Board President. “We
for a new business,” said ElMamouni.
are invested in this project because it
“Seeds of Change recognizes that
meets that criteria.”
there
Mission Breathe is backing the clean
assistance in that regard as well,
cookstove endeavor in several different
whether that means opening flagship
ways. One is the aforementioned stove
stores to promote cookstoves and
assistance program, which ensures
biofuel, co-branding with existing
that cookstoves are affordable to
store locations, or providing funding
individuals in every income bracket.
for storage, warehouse facilities and
The program also offers support
equipment. It’s all necessary for these
for small business startups, as they
businesses to be successful.”
can often face challenges with large
There are currently over 100,000
Jeff Broin, Seeds of Change CoFounder and Board President
capital expenses. This is done through
stoves in the hands of consumers
a revolving loan fund, which helps
around the world, but there is still
VITALBYPOET.COM
is
opportunity
to
provide
much to be done to make biofuel cookstoves a fixture in everyday life for those who can benefit from them the most. Governments must establish policies that support clean energy.
Distribution
and
supply
chains require development so that a quality and consistent product can be provided, and both public and private sectors must be more involved in initializing funding to expand the market and earn clean cookstoves a chance to compete equally. One
of
the
most
challenging
but important components of this endeavor is marketing, which Mission
Use of solid fuels leads to harmful health, environmental and social effects.
Breathe will be supporting as the initiative shifts to a pilot program in Mozambique. Biofuel cookstoves are present there currently but are not operational; a prior project had experienced some complications that prevented proper stove function and adequate fuel supply. The project was initially well-received and popular, so there is a great opportunity to revitalize the market by promoting a new brand, an improved model of the stove, and sufficient, quality fuel. In addition to the commitment from Seeds of Change, this initiative has been made possible by donors like
Solid fuel stoves are a leading driver for deforestation. Over 50% of all wood harvested worldwide is used as fuel.
Growth Energy, whose support has been vital to the success of Mission Breathe. “We are proud to be a part of Mission Breathe’s efforts to replace antiquated and unhealthy cooking techniques with cookstoves that run on a more affordable and cleanerburning renewable fuel: ethanol,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Ethanol cookstoves are just one more way that biofuels are helping to create a healthier future for our planet, and we’re happy to lend support to such a worthwhile cause that impacts so many.”
A child stands outside his home in Mozambique while his mother cooks using a solid fuel stove. Women and children are the most susceptible to the health risks posed by solid fuel stoves due to the amount of time spent in close proximity. THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
17
Clean
cooking
is
an
exciting
frontier that Seeds of Change is very passionate about. The potential to improve so many foundational parts of the world—human health, the environment, the social status quo and developing economies—through one project is a unique and crucial undertaking. Mozambican Silvia Mataval is not only looking forward to using a stove regularly but also helping to promote them alongside her husband as a stove representative. Her words reflect the hope for a better future that can be created through this transformative, sustainable solution. “As we begin to work in stove
Mission Breathe is helping to start businesses that will distribute clean biofuel cookstoves and fuel (like the ones pictured).
promotion, I see my future developing, and can’t wait to go back to school and become a teacher. It is something I have long dreamed about.”
A woman chops wood that she has gathered in order to build a fire for food preparation in Mozambique, Africa.
Mission Breathe is piloting a program in Mozambique, Africa to provide clean-burning cookstoves to replace dangerous solid-fuel stoves. 18
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PRIME THE PUMP
NUVU Fuels Leads the Way in Offering E15/Unleaded 88 as Standard Blend by BryAnn Becker Knecht As ethanol producers and plant
Petersen, said they had been waiting
E15, and the yellow hose on the right
managers, the Michigan-based NUVU
to hear confirmation of approval on
offers E30 and E85. E10 is also still
Fuels team has been involved with
year-round E15 sales so they could
available at the stations. However,
direct
biofuel
switch out Unleaded 87 with E15,
demand has significantly dropped.
blends to retail stations for more
which is also marketed as Unleaded
Petersen saw the potential in higher
than two decades. That involvement
88.
blends from the beginning. “We
eventually led to them building their
In May 2019 President Trump
saw the value of higher blends like
own convenience stores. As they were
announced
the
Unleaded 88 and the many benefits
working to convince retail stations to
approval
year-round
add higher ethanol blends into their
Unleaded 88/E15, a fuel blend with
Midwest economy, the environment
mix, it became apparent that they
15% renewable biofuel. Unleaded 88/
and beyond. We knew that our
needed to own some of their own
E15 is approved for use in cars 2001
convenience stores would prioritize
retail to use in a demonstration at
and newer. E15 is currently sold at
offering higher blends,” he says. “Our
their ethanol plants.
more than 2,000 stations in 31 states.
belief is Unleaded 88/E15 will replace
They began by placing a higher
Those numbers are anticipated to
E10 as the nation’s Regular Unleaded
blends dispenser at Carbon Green
grow
in the coming years, and we are
BioEnergy in Michigan and Iriquois
to pick up momentum; New York
getting ahead of that trend.”
Bio-Energy in Indiana. “We used that
most recently approved sales of E15,
Customer response to Unleaded 88/
as part of our plant tours and as a way
opening the nation’s fourth largest
E15 has been higher than anticipated.
to connect with retail owners so we
fuel market to E15.
Each NUVU store is selling about
would have a pump to show them,”
Soon
said station owner Mitch Miller.
NUVU Fuels moved to sell Unleaded
Unleaded
That endeavor led the group to open
88/E15 as the primary product at
using the product. It’s working well,”
two convenience stores in Michigan in
their locations. “This decision was
Miller said.
2015 and 2017 at the grassroots level.
consistent with the purchase patterns
That’s the sentiment at other retail
From the start, NUVU Fuels has focused
of our customers, follows consumer
stations who are offering the product.
on offering higher biofuel blends to
demand and allows us to be highly
Summer sales of Unleaded 88/E15
customers at their retail stations. A
competitive in the marketplace,” says
were up 46% in 2019 compared to
big part of that decision was that, as
Miller. “Now that we can reliably
2018 on a per-store basis, according to
ethanol producers and managers,
offer E15 year-round, we confidently
Growth Energy, the biofuel industry’s
the NUVU Fuels management team
made it our biggest focus and offered
largest trade association.
knew the value that higher-octane,
our consumers better fuel choices
“Unleaded 88 provides American
lower-emissions biofuels bring to
to
Higher
drivers unrivaled value at the fuel
consumers, the environment and the
biofuel blends give all drivers access
pump and the explosive growth
economy.
to choices that are smart for their
in
NUVU Fuels has led the way in
engines, kinder for the environment
what we’ve always known — once
offering Unleaded 88/E15 as their
and better for their wallets.”
consumers have access to this engine-
stations’ main fuel blend. Miller, who
Customers who fill up at NUVU
smart, earth-kind fuel they will come
is part of the NUVU Fuels ownership
stations have three choices: the blue
back again and again,” said Growth
group along with Jason Jerke and Mike
hose on the left side is Unleaded 88/
Energy CEO Emily Skor.
supplying
higher
of
even
more.
after
match
administration’s
that
their
E15
sales
of
continues
announcement,
lifestyles.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
they
provide
100,000
to
gallons 88/E15.
summer
consumers,
per
month
“Customers
sales
the
of are
demonstrate
21
2020
Looking back on a decade of
Innovation As we kick off 2020, we reflect on the last decade and celebrate how far POET has come. We’ve grown significantly in size and scope while maintaining our position as the leader in the biofuels industry. Innovation remains central to our mission, guiding everything we do from research and process efficiencies to our nonprofit commitment and community engagement. We’ve had opportunities to celebrate our accomplishments and received recognition for our efforts from leading national and industry organizations and publications. We’re proud of how far we’ve come, but our work is not complete.
22
VITALBYPOET.COM
1
awards
Over the past 10 years, POET founder and CEO Jeff Broin and POET were recognized for innovations and contributions. • POET was named to FORTUNE Magazine’s list of companies that are Changing the World • POET was named as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies • POET ranked No. 3 on the Biofuels Digest list of Hottest Companies in Bioenergy • Jeff Broin was voted No. 2 on the Biofuels Digest Top 100 People in Bioenergy • Jeff Broin was voted No. 1 Brave Thinker in Ag by Top Producer Magazine • Jeff Broin was awarded BIO’s George Washington Carver Award recognizing “significant contributions by individuals in the field of industrial biotechnology and its application in biological engineering, environmental science, biorefining and biobased products” • Jeff Broin received Biofuels Digest and Nuu Global Bioeconomy Leadership Award • POET was named the largest company in South Dakota based on revenue by Business Insider • POET was named Ethanol Producer of the Year by Corporate Vision Magazine • Jeff Broin received an honorary doctorate of public service from South Dakota State University • Jeff Broin was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame as the “Pioneer of Agriculture” • Jeff Broin was a 2019 Environment + Energy Leader Honoree
POET is committed to using innovation to boost efficiencies at all POET plants. This helps us reduce waste and boost our environmental impact. POET developed and patented several processes that contribute to the mission of making ethanol production more efficient. For example, POET’s BPX process, a patented raw starch hydrolysis which converts
2
efficiencies
starch to sugar with a proprietary blend of enzymes, instead of heat, helps reduce energy use at each plant up to 15% while at the same time increases yield per bushel. POET’s Total Water Recovery system, another patented process, continuously filters and treats water until it is of usable quality. This system essentially eliminates liquid discharge from POET’s network of biorefineries. Because of this recycling effort, POET plants on average require less than 3 gallons of water per gallon of ethanol. This commitment to water and energy conservation has continued over the past 10 years and we continue to work to refine our processes even more.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
23
3
In 2019 President Trump’s Administration approved national year-round E15, creating significant new opportunities for
agriculture, biofuels and consumers alike – 2 billion bushels of new corn demand, 7 billion gallons of new biofuel demand and 6 billion annual savings for consumers. E15 is a fuel blend of 15%
ethanol, which results in great environmental benefits across the globe. E15 was previously restricted during summer months due
Policy: Achieving Year-round E15
to outdated regulations. This long-fought effort would not have been possible without the vision of POET founder and CEO Jeff Broin, our many biofuels champions and elected officials standing up for what’s right.
4
Industry Association Growth Energy
Growth Energy is the largest biofuels trade association and has celebrated milestones for POET and the biofuels industry over the last 10 years. Growth Energy started with 37 member plants and has grown over the last 10 years to almost 100 members, plus important non plant members like retailers Kum & Go and Thorntons. Growth Energy has coordinated industry efforts like ethanol market expansion both domestic and abroad, NASCAR and American Ethanol partnerships and policy efforts to protect the RFS. Growth Energy has achieved success through the vision of its leaders, like Jeff Broin, who led the organization as Chair of the Board since its inception, stepping aside only after reaching the milestone of year-round E15 earlier this year, and Emily Skor, who joined as CEO in 2016.
In 2012 POET and Royal DSM announced a 50-50 joint venture and formed POET-DSM Advanced Biofuels. The effort was designed to bring together the strengths of each company to unlock the ability to convert corn crop residue into cellulosic bio-ethanol, creating additional
5
project liberty
revenue streams for farm families and improving the environmental benefits seen across the globe. POETDSM Advanced Biofuels achieved many successes, most notably the construction and operation of a commercialscale cellulosic ethanol plant in Emmetsburg, Iowa, Project LIBERTY, which opened in 2014. Since that time, Project LIBERTY has successfully produced, sold and shipped commercial gallons of cellulosic ethanol.
24
VITALBYPOET.COM
6
research
POET’s research team continues to provide key contributions to POET in efforts to maintain its leadership within the renewable fuel industry. The team works on interdisciplinary projects spanning environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, agriculture sciences and engineering. POET researchers are key to developing and fine tuning new commercially relevant projects aligned with POET’s mission to help eliminate waste, streamline operations and reduce emissions. POET research has built meaningful partnerships with industry, national labs and leading research universities across the country, including Lallemand and Novozymes, Argonne and Pacific Northwest National Laboratories, and Michigan State and South Dakota State University.
7
POET has seen innovations take off. Notably, POET developed a
proprietary process for extracting corn oil in 2010 and named
poet products
the product Voila. Voila can be used as a highly nutritious
energy source in animal diets or as a biodiesel feedstock. Voila is produced at all POET biorefineries.
Another innovative POET product is JIVE. JIVE is an asphalt modifier and rejuvenator that launched in 2017 and is currently in use as a greener and more affordable option to replace petrochemical products. JIVE helps extend the life of asphalt and improves its ability to tolerate colder temperatures.
8
seeds of change Over the past several years Seeds of Change – POET’s non-profit founded by the Broin family in 2014 – has greatly expanded the impact it has been able to provide. Seeds of Change has completed seven annual service trips to Kenya and provides POET team and family members with the opportunity to participate each year. The organization’s vision is to cultivate hope across nations by transforming education, agriculture and environmental conditions to support worldwide, sustainable development through its three missions. Mission Hope supports the education of some of Kenya’s brightest but most vulnerable children. Mission Grow teaches sub-subsistence farmers in Africa how to implement simple but effective agricultural techniques that lead to food security and income generation; the program has impacted over half a million individuals to date. Mission Breathe is working to transition families in developing countries from cooking with harmful solid fuels (wood, charcoal and dung) to clean-burning biofuels in order to eliminate indoor air pollution and reduce deforestation. The program is currently engaged in South Africa and Mozambique.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
25
POET’s footprint has steadily increased since its founding in 1987 with one plant in Scotland, South Dakota. In the past decade POET celebrated a new plant in Indiana and a doubling of capacity at a plant in Ohio, boosting ethanol
9
plant expansion
production capacity to 2 billion gallons network wide and adding dozens of additional jobs in rural communities across the Midwest. This growth will continue in the next decade with the opening of a brand-new plant in Indiana in 2020.
10
never satisfied grants & scholarships
At POET we are Never Satisfied. POET isn’t waiting for someone else to change the world, we’re producing biofuels and oil alternatives that make our air cleaner, our country safer and our future brighter. This philosophy guides team members across the company in their work and also contributes to how POET supports members of the community through scholarship and grant programs. POET’s Never Satisfied scholarship program has grown since its creation in 2016 and has awarded 27 scholars from across the country a collective total of $135,000 toward their education. POET’s Never Satisfied grant program began in 2017 and provides individual biorefineries the opportunities to award grants to organizations in and around their communities. The program overall has awarded almost $100,000 in small grants. For example, POET Biorefining-Groton awarded a grant to the Groton-Wonder Project funding a local teacher’s program to create positive, long-term changes in the students she teaches. Teacher Kristi Anderson said, “Satisfied equals average in my book. It means I’m comfortably settled in a rut, not truly in the game. Satisfaction breeds mediocrity…I am never satisfied until I can hook every student that walks through my door on the wonder of books.”
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHTER ABOVE THE GROUND! Thank you for your support for POET and biofuels as we celebrate our successes and plan for even more exciting innovations in the decade to come. 26
VITALBYPOET.COM
opportunity is everywhere if you know where to look
POET.COM
At POET, the workday ends, but the work never does. We’re using renewable resources and our endless passion to create biofuels, nutrient-rich protein and oil alternatives.
BIG OIL
LEGACY
Depletion of nonrenewable resources
Environmental damage
Cost of cleaning up oil spills
Climate damage from oil production and transportation emissions
BIG OIL RECEIVES $20.5 billion IN SUBSIDIES
The United States federal and state governments gave away $20.5 billion a year on average in 2015 and 2016 in production subsidies to the oil, gas and coal industries. Source: Oil Change International
VS
S
ETHANOL LEGACY
A reduction in carbon emissions
A reduction in tailpipe emissions
Lower ozone levels
A decrease or elimination of toxic and cancer-causing chemicals in gasoline
ETHANOL RECEIVES $0
IN SUBSIDIES Grain-based ethanol production receives zero state and federal subsidies. It’s clear biofuels are a win for farmers, consumers, the economy and the environment and there are opportunities to do even more if we’re able to achieve a free market for fuel.
29
Biofuels Addressing Fuel Affordability and Access Affordable fuel is an important part of ensuring access to opportunities. Biofuels help fill that gap for low- and moderate-income families. by Matt Merritt
30
VITALBYPOET.COM
Justin Pfeiffer of Sioux Falls uses
less on other items and going further
biofuels. While he understands that
into debt,” she wrote.
there are a number of good reasons to
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says
do so, at the end of the day, it comes
this is where biofuels play a role.
down to one issue.
“We
“It costs less,” he says.
Americans, regardless of income or
Of the many benefits of biofuels,
location, access to a more affordable
saving money may feel like it should
and cleaner fuel choice for their
rank below issues such as the rural
family is important,” she says.
particularly has
More options improve access
impact on people
transportation
Biofuels save consumers anywhere
provides access to things such as jobs,
from $0.50 to $1.50 per gallon for two
lung conditions.”
health care, education, food and more.
reasons. First, it is a lower-cost fuel,
Without transportation, problems for
and that is not just in comparison
the most vulnerable people in society
to regular gasoline. Biofuels are
begin to compound.
the primary octane component in
believe
that
giving
all
economy, national security, climate change and more. But it’s more than just pocket change. For many, the cost of fuel Affordable
affects everyone, healthy or otherwise, but it
with preexisting
strikes at the heart of basic human rights.
“Air pollution
gasoline, and when compared to the
Is fuel a right? Affordable fuel is an important part of ensuring access to opportunities. Transportation is not a luxury. It is critical to reaching services. During a drastic spike in fuel prices in 2012, Isabel Sawhill, Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institute asserted “rising gas prices do affect both consumers and the economy adversely, and they are especially harmful to lower- and moderateincome households.” Sawhill wrote that in households with an annual income below $50,000, 80% own cars, and many own more than one car. “Since low- and moderate-income families’ spend most of their income on average, in the very short run, they can only choose between spending
petroleum-based
alternatives
the
savings are enormous. “Ethanol
is
about
300%
less
expensive than other octane sources,” says Mike O’Brien, Vice President of Market Development at Growth Energy. Second,
biofuels
expand
the
existing supply of fuel, shifting the supply-demand equation in favor of consumers. More options at the pump can mean more flexibility for families facing tough financial decisions. The biofuel industry’s newest product, E15, aims to provide that. O’Brien says consumers save 3-10 cents per gallon with E15, and access is growing. With more than 2,000 sites across the country offering E15, the industry is already above its projections for 2019. Skor says this hits the human rights concept in more than one way.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
“Not only are consumers saving up to 10 cents per gallon at the pump when they choose a higher ethanol blend, but biofuels also burn cleaner than conventional gasoline, meaning it’s better for your engine and the air we breathe,” she says.
The right to breathe Clean air is another significant human rights issue that biofuels address. “Poor
and
communities disproportionate transportation
disadvantaged often
bear
burden emissions
a of
because
many of the facilities like highways and railyards, freight depots, ports are located in and near the neighborhoods where these people live,” says Robert Moffitt, Director of Clean Air for
31
the American Lung Association would want to take on the largest sources of air pollution in the state to help keep the air healthy for all of us.”
The public sees it The general consumer is often focused on their own budget, but they do understand the broader implications of affordable, clean fuel. “I feel this is a big issue for lower the American Lung Association of
“I feel this is a big issue for lower income families because they already struggle to make ends meet regardless of higher fuel costs. Higher fuel costs only add stress to an already tight budget for most people.”
Minnesota. Biofuels decrease many of the toxic and cancer-causing agents in gasoline, including particulate matter. “Air pollution affects everyone, healthy
or
otherwise,
but
it
particularly has impact on people with preexisting lung conditions,” Moffitt says. “People with asthma, people with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). For those people, pollution can be a risk to their lives.” Add to that the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, outlined by the European Society of Cardiology earlier
this
year.
Lung
and
cardiovascular problems from air pollution combine to cause 8.8 million deaths each year worldwide, more than deaths caused by smoking. States
like
Minnesota
support
strong biofuels use for many reasons, and health ranks high among those reasons, Moffitt says. “Here in Minnesota, exhaust from vehicles is the single largest source of air pollution, and it’s also the single largest source of greenhouse gasses,” he says. “So it just makes sense that
32
VITALBYPOET.COM
income families because they already struggle to make ends meet regardless of higher fuel costs,” says Donald Benkendorf of Logan, Utah. “Higher fuel costs only add stress to an already tight budget for most people.” Benkendorf says he uses biofuels to the extent that it is already in his fuel at the standard E10 blend. More options are attractive, though. “I think more fuel options at the pump would be better if the options are more sustainable than regular petroleum gasoline. If the other options turned out to be cheaper too, all the better,” he says. “Perhaps another advantage of having other fuel options would be more price stability, so that cheaper options exist when oil prices skyrocket.” For Pfeiffer of Sioux Falls, a good product at a lower cost is a no-brainer. “It’s cheaper, and it works just as well as gas,” he says. “I think that’s why most people use it.”
NASCAR UPDATE
A Look Back from the Future by Ryan Welsh *Disclaimer: This recap of the NASCAR season is presented in the distant future through the eyes of two science fiction characters. It does not predict the future. Any piece of the fictional story that does come true is purely coincidental. Dr. Cornelius and Dr. Ziran were horseback riding on the
“Here’s a note,” said Dr. Ziran, “‘American Ethanol
beach in late April 3019 when they came upon a metallic
Magazine continues to grow, seeking stories about the real
object protruding through the sand. “Do you see that dear?”
power behind American Ethanol: the people. Krista Voda,
Dr. Ziran asked her fiancé.
Neil Young and Paul Dana all were on the cover in 2019.’ These must have been famous trailblazers from that time.”
“Yes, I do,” replied Cornelius. “You stay on your horse and I’ll check it out.”
“Look at this page, ‘American Ethanol has been a partner of NASCAR since 2011, and E15 is in the fuel tank of every
He dismounted and started to pull sand away from the half-
winning driver,’” Cornelius read aloud. “So they were an
buried metal cylinder.
official partner of the largest motorsport in the world at that time.
“What is it?” asked Dr. Ziran. “It looks like they even had their own racecar, a green and “There’s an inscription: ‘American Ethanol 2019 – for future
white automobile with the number three displayed on the
generations,’” Cornelius read. “This is from one thousand
sides,” Dr. Ziran said as she held up the tiny model racecar.
years ago! Hm, ethanol was being used way back then?
“I wonder how the diver fit in there,” she joked as Cornelius
They were way ahead of their time!”
rolled his eyes.
“What is that thing?” asked Dr. Ziran excitedly.
“It says here that Austin Dillon donned the American Ethanol colors six times that year, in Kansas, Daytona,
“I think it’s a time capsule! I’m going to open it up,” replied
Darlington, Talladega, Martinsville and Phoenix,” said
Cornelius. “Let’s see what it contains.”
Dr. Cornelius. “Those are legendary places. And Austin is quoted as saying, ‘It was a humbling and challenging
He opened the capsule and handed the items one by one to
season. I can’t say I’m happy about finishing right in the
Dr. Ziran.
middle of all drivers, but we have learned a lot and will be ready for 2020.’”
“I know what these are,” mumbled Dr. Cornelius. “They’re periodicals, sometimes called magazines, printed on paper.
He then picked up another object.
This was probably before virtual translation was available. ‘American Ethanol Magazine.’”
34
“What is that?” asked Dr. Ziran
VITALBYPOET.COM
“It is a coin that says, ‘Celebrating 50 years with Richard
“That looks like some kind of decal – perhaps like one
Childress Racing.’ Wow, that’s a milestone!” He exclaimed.
they would have put on a race car,” replied Cornelius. “It
“I bet they garnered a lot of exposure. That was their team
says, ’15 Million Miles.’ Is there anything about that in the
partner, and they could tap into all their resources to pass
magazine?”
along the positive message about ethanol.” She pointed to a page. “This says, ‘American Ethanol “Look, here are a few photographs,” said Ziran. “Written
surpassed the milestone of 15 million flawless miles at the
on the back of this one is, ‘American Ethanol continues
race in Phoenix. The fuel again performed perfectly under
fruitful partnership with the Universal Technical Institute,
the most grueling conditions an engine can be pushed to,’”
educating future mechanics and their instructors.’ It looks
said Dr. Ziran. She paused and looked over at Dr. Cornelius.
like they had two seminars that year with someone named
“What are you thinking about?”
Dr. Andy Randolph.” “2019 must have been the turning point – the watershed “What does the other one with all those people on it say?”
moment. This was the point when biofuels really took off!
Cornelius asked.
I’ve read about it. Oil companies were trying to frame sustainability as their legacy, but it was American Ethanol
“It says they hosted a group of auto influencers from Mexico
that literally drove biofuels to where they are today: 100%
in partnership with the U.S. Grains Council,” she replied.
of our fuel source. The American Ethanol team of 2019 never gave up and never quit. Let’s gather this stuff up and
“Now, what in heaven’s name is this, dear?” Dr. Ziran asked,
bring it with us. This all belongs in a museum!”
holding up a shiny piece of plastic.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
35
ENERGY FOR LIFE
CULTIVATING HOLY HABITS IN THE NEW YEAR
The Scriptures are rich with life lessons that guide us with our decisions, teach us how to live, and lead us into a deep and satisfying life with Jesus.
DEVOTE
yourself
to
fellowship.
Healthy
relationships are important in leading a well-balanced
by Melissa Fletcher, Spiritual Care Advisor, POET
life. Meaningful relationships take time to cultivate as
Cultivating new habits is challenging. It can take
we spend time with others. Be intentional about the
weeks and even months to develop a lifestyle change
friendships you make, and then be devoted to keeping
that we are consistently adhering to. But, let’s put our
them healthy. Extend the gift of hospitality by opening
own human will power aside, and begin to see things
your home to others.
through God’s perspective. When our vision, plans and goals align with His vision for our lives, we will begin to experience the power of God in a whole new way.
DEVOTE
yourself to sharing in meals (including
the LORD’s Supper). Food and fellowship go hand in hand. Whether this is setting family meals as a priority,
Whenever we begin a New Year we also think about
or sharing a meal with a neighbor, the point is sharing
new beginnings. We begin to reevaluate our lives, what
and fellowship. In the early Church, not only did they
we accomplished and what we didn’t, and then we set
worship together, but they ate together as well. And,
new priorities and goals. As we begin this New Year,
they shared in the LORD’s Supper, which is communion.
let us be committed to developing Holy Habits – habits
This is where church fellowship is so important. Not
that help us in our walk with the LORD and deepen our
only are you growing in your faith and spirituality
relationship with Him and others. We see a beautiful
when you attend church, but you are sharing in the
picture of this outlined in the Scriptures within the
death and life (the body and the blood) of Jesus Christ.
early Church. In Acts 2:42-47 it says, “All the believers devoted
DEVOTE
yourself to prayer. Prayer is simply
talking to God. It is sharing our life with Him through
themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship,
conversation. A simple way to look at prayer is through
and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper),
the acronym ACTS. ACTS stands for Adoration (praise
and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all,
God for who He is), Confession (confess your sins and
and the apostles performed many miraculous signs
repent of them), Thanksgiving (thank Him for all of
and wonders. And all the believers met together in one
the blessings in your life), and Supplication (ask Him
place and shared everything they had. They sold their
for the things you need). Prayer is a direct line to God
property and possessions and shared the money with
and important in developing a deep and personal
those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple
relationship with Him.
each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— all the while
Let this new year bring a devotion to cultivating Holy
praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people.
Habits – habits that can bring a deeper meaning into
And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those
your relationship with God and with others.
who were being saved.” (New Living Translation). Developing Holy Habits can set the tone for a fulfilling year of love, joy and peace. But the key word is devotion. In order to make these important life changes, we must be devoted. Here’s how to begin:
DEVOTE
yourself to the Scriptures (Apostle’s
teachings). Set a consistent time each day to allow yourself time to spend reading the Bible. The Bible is the word of God given to us to lead us into a full life.
36
VITALBYPOET.COM
HABIT CHANGING: SIMPLE, SLOW AND STEADY by Cole Fricke, Wellness Coordinator, POET
Simplify your goal, start with one step and set yourself up for success. Focus on the things you get to do, not the things you can’t do.
The new year is a time when folks are looking to start their resolutions. It’s a fresh start and something that
Follow the Three S’s, take your time and be kind to
you’re just supposed to do. However, the shine usually
yourself. You’ve got the rest of your life to accomplish
wears off pretty quick. Most people struggle for two
your goals, so start simply and give yourself a chance
reasons: they rely on outside motivators or cues to
to succeed.
implement changes; and they bite off a little more than they can chew with their execution. I’m here to give you some friendly tips that can help you set your changes up for long term success, and they’re really easy to remember. Just think of the Three S’s: Simple, Slow and Steady.
SIMPLE: The KISS Method is a friend of mine from way back. Keep it simple. We want to make all these changes in multiple areas of our life, and we want immediate results. Unfortunately, we just don’t have the bandwidth to accomplish that. You can focus your effort and resources in one area, master it and move on, or you can spread it around to multiple areas and likely not accomplish any of them because the resources are too thin. Prioritize and move down the list, rather than everything all at once.
SLOW: I know we’re impatient, but there’s a reason they say “Slow & steady wins the race.” Taking things slow allows you to devote more attention and really learn your new behavior pattern.
STEADY: Stay the course. We’re too quick to give up when it’s too hard or we don’t get what we want right away. The wise man builds his house upon the rocks, and you’ll be able to weather more storms too if you build a good foundation and stay the course.
BONUS: Sometimes it’s hard to “see the forest for the trees” so to speak. It can be overwhelming to even start if you focus too much on everything you have to do to accomplish your changes. Take weight loss for example. If you’re looking at completely overhauling your diet and going to the gym seven days a week, you’ll likely get burned out before your new habits took hold.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
37
RENEW POET Biorefining — Laddonia in Laddonia, MO participated in the town’s annual Christmas parade celebration. POET team member Travis Lybarger took the reins and decorated the company truck and trailer to partake in the festivities. The POET presence lit up the parade route as community members came out to celebrate the holiday season.
POET Biorefining — Glenville in Glenville, MN met an exciting milestone and loaded their first E85 truck. E85 is a fuel blended with 85% ethanol that can be used in flex fuel vehicles. E85 has the ability to boost environmental impacts significantly. Like E15, E85 is another example of expanded consumer options at the gas pump.
38
VITALBYPOET.COM
Team members at POET Biorefining — Preston in Preston, MO filled 70 gift bags for families staying at the Ronald McDonald house in Rochester, Minnesota. This effort preceded an off-site strategic planning session where the team discussed ways that their servant roles can play a central role as they plan for the future of work at the plant.
POET Biorefining — Hanlontown
members participate in the Adopt
in Hanlontown, IA was a recipient
a Highway program to make
of Governor Kim Reynolds’s Give
sure the streets surrounding the
Back Iowa Challenge, an award
POET plant are clean for travelers
for companies in Iowa that are
and visitors. Around Christmas,
dedicated to volunteering in
plant employees volunteer with
their communities. Governor
Salvation Army and distribute gift
Reynolds visited the plant to
baskets to local farm families.
congratulate the team in person.
The team has also identified
POET Biorefining — Hanlontown
creative ways to give back that
team members have been
connect to the work they do daily.
longstanding supporters of the
For example, each year the plant
Mason City Community Kitchen,
grows an acre of corn that they
sending volunteers each month
distribute to local food banks.
to prepare a meal. Each year team
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
39
RENEW POET Biorefining — Hudson in Hudson, SD got in the giving spirit and provided lunches to the producers out in the fields working to harvest the corn that supplies the nation with food, fuel and fiber. After a challenging growing season, the effort was much appreciated by producers who were hit by historic rains.
Team members at POET Research Center in Scotland, SD contributed both food and financial donations to supply three Scotland and Tripparea families with the items needed to make their own Thanksgiving meals. In addition to the baskets, team members raised over $300 that will be used to support holiday drives for other community organizations.
POET Biorefining — Laddonia in Laddonia, MO had a unique visitor to their plant in November. A meteor flew over the plant providing an impressive sight and lighting up the night sky.
40
VITALBYPOET.COM
Team members at POET Biorefining — Marion, in Marion, OH donated their time and educated 1,600 local school students about the environmental, economic and national security impacts of biofuels and the career opportunities that the industry provides locally in the Marion area. It’s never too early to spread the benefits of biofuels!
Biofuels Education Shapes Tomorrow’s Leaders by Matt Merritt
42
VITALBYPOET.COM
The biofuels industry, long the target of misinformation campaigns and general misunderstanding from the public, is laying out the facts and setting minds on the right track at an early age. Growth
Energy,
in
partnership
with Future Farmers of America (FFA) and the National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE), has created a first-of-its-kind biofuels curriculum for high school students. The program is free for teachers to download
and
covers
practically
every aspect of the industry, from production to policy to environmental benefits to rural development. Dubbed “Biofuels in the Classroom,” the hands-on course includes STEMbased activities along with biofuels
based learning. FFA, with 700,000
curriculum.”
history and discussions on policy,
students and 11,000 teachers involved,
Kelly
environmental
provides access to classrooms.
of Development at Growth Energy,
effects and more.
Carl Aakre, Curriculum Coordinator
says that as they looked around the
“We
introduce
for CASE (Curriculum for Agricultural
country, they saw a real need for
students from both rural and urban
Science Education) worked as part
updated information for classrooms.
areas to the world of biofuels,”
of NAAE to develop the program.
“We realized that all the content,
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says.
Previous
even in our backyards, was dated,” he
“From the field to gas tank and all
materials for teachers were old and
says.
the way to the White House, biofuels
surface-level. The goal, Aakre says,
Doug Berven, Vice President of
play a critical role in our nation’s fuel
is to make it as easy as possible for
Corporate Affairs at POET, travels
are
benefits,
thrilled
to
economic
to
this,
the
available
Manning,
Vice
President
supply and our energy policy, and we hope that students are inspired by the impact biofuels have on driving innovation
through
science
and
technology.”
Partners with a purpose
Nearly half of students with National FFA are from non-rural communities, and we’ve had teachers download our curriculum from nearly every state in the U.S., including teachers in Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston.
Biofuels in the Classroom was developed as a partnership, with each
teachers to incorporate an important
the world educating the public about
member bringing something key to
topic into their classrooms.
biofuels. He says the industry faces
the table. Growth Energy provided the
“We wanted to make it more in-
“an uphill battle” in communicating
vision, goals and industry knowledge.
depth. We wanted to get as much info
those benefits to the world.
NAAE provided expertise in building
to the teachers as possible,” he says.
“The problem is, we are taking
curriculum
around
“They can focus on the students and
market share from the most powerful
themes
incorporating
teaching and not have to develop the
political force on the planet – oil. That
and
agriculture STEM-
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
43
encourage students to inquire and think critically about the science and economics of ethanol production and its importance in the agricultural industry,” he says. “The curriculum integrates the math, science, business and history of ethanol in a way for agricultural instructors to engage students in the classroom.” Skor says the “why” is a key component. As biofuel use grows and higher blends are more readily available, the public needs to know the facts and how it benefits the world. “We’re also speaking to the next generation of drivers on the road, and we hope that with a greater understanding
of
ethanol’s
many
is not going to come easy, and oil has
without a strong biofuel presence is
benefits for the environment, the
all the money in the world to cast
even more important. FFA has the
economy, and the consumer that
doubt on the mind of the American
most students in states like California,
they’ll be proud to choose UNL88 and
consumer,” he says. “We need to fight
Texas and Georgia.
fuel up their car up with E15,” she
back with fact, data and reality.”
“There’s less than 10 ethanol plants
said.
Growth Energy’s goals extend well
in those states, and lots of people,” he
Berven says there are so many
beyond the Midwest audience, and
says.
benefits including “the environment,
that is why the partnership with FFA
Touching every aspect of the industry
is so important. “Our
vision
for
the
biofuels
curriculum aims to empower and inform students in every state of our nation,” Skor says. “In fact, nearly half of students with National FFA
the
economy,
energy
security,
consumer prices, agriculture, engine performance and more.” One that resonates with many students today is biofuel’s benefits in fighting climate change. Berven says that the environmental
are from non rural communities, and
In
curriculum,
benefits of biofuels extend beyond
we’ve had teachers download our
Aakre says they sought to provide a
lowering transportation emissions.
curriculum from nearly every state
comprehensive view of the industry,
It
in the U.S., including teachers in Los
addressing not only what the industry
do
Angeles, Chicago and Houston.”
is and how biofuels are made, but also
environment.
Manning agrees. In many ways,
why they are important.
“Without
reaching those students in states
“The activities are designed to
oversupplied, and agriculture has no
building
the
also
helps
important
farmers
afford
work
help
biofuels,
to
grains
to the are
margin,” he says. “Without a margin in
The activities are designed to encourage students to inquire and think critically about the science and economics of ethanol production and its importance in the agricultural industry.
agriculture, our farmers can’t afford the latest technology for precision ag, cover crops, buffer zones, etc.” Students learn early in the course the history of the biofuels industry and study how ethanol is made. They move on to learn the importance of biofuels for the local, state and U.S.
44
VITALBYPOET.COM
economies and how policies like the
The last FFA convention included
students take the knowledge they gain
Renewable Fuel Standard help level
about 70,000 students, the largest
in school and apply it in the real world
the playing field in the fuel market.
gathering of students in the world.
either directly – through careers in
They got more than 300 downloads
biofuels, agriculture and energy – or
applied in the classroom through
from that convention alone.
indirectly as users and advocates for
activities including producing ethanol
Skor attributes that to the expertise
biofuels.
and distillers grain from corn and
and attention to detail by all partners
That’s what resonates with Skor.
cellulosic ethanol from corn-based
of Biofuels in the Classroom.
“As a mother of two, I care about
cellulose.
This
information
Other
and
more
“We credit that success to the years
what I’m putting in my tank and rest
policy debates and fuel testing.
of hard work behind the scenes to
easy knowing I’m making a cleaner
“It’s
develop
an
activities
is
exciting,
include
curriculum
choice at the pump by filling up with
experience that allows teachers and
hands-on
and the incredible partnership we
ethanol blends,” she says. “That’s why
students to produce their own biofuels
have with the National Association
we’re so excited about the biofuels
in the classroom and measure its
of Ag Educators to ensure that this
curriculum – because it’s important
energy content and greenhouse gas
curriculum is easy to implement
to educate our next generation of
emissions,” Skor says.
and meets the high standards of our
leaders and grow support for biofuels,
educators,” she says.
like ethanol, to inspire renewable
Teachers are responding the
partnership
biofuels
Building knowledge for the future
Together,
the
innovation and promote economic growth in our heartland for years to come.”
has
resulted in 1,600 downloads since its
The impact of Biofuels in the
launch last spring for teachers to use
Classroom and its partners will be
in the fall semester.
greatest in the years to come, as
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
45
Changing Lives Through New Annual Corporate Sponsorship Novozymes signs on as the first corporate sponsor for Seeds of Change
by Courtney Collen, Seeds of Change Development Coordinator Seeds of Change was founded in 2014
events and activities for about six
Vice President Brian Brazeau said.
with three core areas of focus: quality
years.
“Novozymes has a strong market
education, helping farmers reach
Alicia ElMamouni says the company’s
position
sustainability
involvement is an extension of the
solutions to more than 30 different
passion
industries,”
and
46
through
improving
the
agriculture, environment
Seeds
they
of
Change
have
for
Director
changing
and
supplies
Brazeau
biological
said.
“Our
with clean-burning biofuels. As the
people’s lives.
organization grows and reaches more
“Novozymes
a
help bring biological answers to many
of the world, there is an increasing
commitment to sustainable projects
of the global challenges we face today,
need for support — big and small —
and improving the world around us,”
and our new long-term strategy,
as well as visionaries who think alike.
said ElMamouni.
‘Better business with biology,’ sets
In 2019, Seeds of Change rolled
The
the
the direction for Novozymes and
out a three-tiered Corporate Partner
Denmark-based
and
will ensure that we will create more
Sponsorship
program
for
enzymatic and microbial solutions has
partnership
long
had
between
company
year-
POET dates back nearly 15 years
impact for our customers, for our
round, more intimate involvement.
with a strong history of innovation,
business and for the world. This
It wasn’t long before Novozymes, a
commercial development and the
resonates well with Seeds of Change’s
world leader in biological solutions,
push for higher ethanol blends and
mission and we look forward to
officially signed as the first annual
expanding markets while preserving
working together to support Seeds of
corporate sponsor at the Platinum
the planet.
Change initiatives.”
Level.
“Novozymes is proud to be the first
The program is already making
Novozymes has been supporting
corporate sponsor,” Novozymes North
an impact, said Seeds of Change
Seeds of Change through various
America President and Bioenergy
Co-Founder
VITALBYPOET.COM
and
Board
Secretary
Miranda
Broin,
“Not
only
has
Novozymes been an integral part of POET’s mission to change the world, but they are also enacting change in a completely different way through their dedication to Seeds of Change.” Novozymes is the world’s largest provider of enzyme and microbial technologies, and its bio-innovation enables higher agricultural yields, low-temperature
washing
and
energy-efficient production, as well as renewable fuel and other benefits. In fact, the company now has a presence in East Africa with a new office in Nairobi, Kenya. They’ve developed
enzyme
technology
to
allow detergent producers to develop better, more affordable detergents for local consumers. In addition, the company works with breweries across
Photo courtesy of Brian Brazeau, Vice President, Biofuels Commercial North America at Novozymes
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
48
sub-Saharan Africa to help save time, energy and water in beer production. This continued investment will allow Novozymes to meet customer and consumer needs across the globe. “We are so grateful for their partnership
and
their
vision.
It
enables us to look into the future and plan for greater impact around the world,� ElMamouni said. To learn more about becoming a Seeds of Change Corporate Partner, call 605-366-4033.
48
VITALBYPOET.COM
the best ideas
are the ones you haven’t thought of yet POET.COM
At POET, we’re not looking for easy fixes for obvious problems. We’re looking for the next generation of problem solvers, who can identify challenges we don’t even know exist yet. So if you’re more interested in unanswerable questions than answers that can’t be questioned, you’ll probably fit right in.
PEOPLE OF POET
Emily Boynton Steps into General Manager Role With Humble Confidence by Andrea Van Essen
50
VITALBYPOET.COM
If you had asked Emily Boynton 20 years ago if she imagined herself managing an ethanol plant someday, she would have laughed. Yet, as she approaches 18 years at
POET
Caro,
Biorefining
Michigan,
–
Caro
Boynton
is
in also
transitioning to the role of General Manager. It’s not a path she ever envisioned herself taking. Boynton was recruited to Caro from House of Raeford, a poultry plant in Athens, Michigan,
changed to Quality Manager. Joining
foundation Boynton needed when the
POET as the Caro plant was being built
time came to move up.
provided Boynton with perspective
“It really taught me that you don’t
from the ground up.
have to have a title to influence people
“I remember sitting around tables
to follow you and more importantly,
listening to everyone with all this
to do what’s right,” she said. “It pays
industry experience, and over the
dividends to do what’s right every
years, you just continue to learn,” she
day.”
said.
When POET Biorefining – Caro’s Plant Manager position opened up
Boynton’s evolving role with POET
in 2017, it was time for Boynton to
in regulation and product safety,
The majority of Boynton’s career
leadership role, Boynton hesitated
working with her team to ensure
at POET was spent in the quality
excellence in all areas. It’s this
division, where she oversaw lab
commitment to quality that makes
work and fermentation, ensuring the
Boynton a perfect fit for her role at
quality of raw stock coming in as well
POET, but she didn’t see the connection
as co-products and ethanol going out.
at first. In fact, she didn’t believe she
While it sounds fairly technical,
was qualified for the position.
Boynton developed much of her
“In the interview, after they told
leadership skills here.
me what I’d be doing in the role, I
“As a Quality Manager, you have to
said, ‘You need a chemist, and I’m
have strong, influential leadership,”
a
she said. “You don’t really have
where she worked as a Quality Manager. While there, she became an expert
microbiologist.’
I
didn’t
know I
any power over the people you’re
remember asking, ‘You put this in
managing as far as hiring or firing,
gas?’”
but you have to influence them to
But POET saw potential that Boynton
want to make the right product every
didn’t yet recognize. The job was
day.”
offered to her, and she joined the team
Her 14 years in the quality division
as a Lab Manager — a title which later
ended
anything
about
the
industry.
up
forming
the
strong
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
take another leap of faith. Faced with the opportunity to move into that but was encouraged by mentors who
It really taught me that you don’t have to have a title to influence people to follow you and more importantly, to do what’s right. It pays dividends to do what’s right every day.
51
believed in her abilities.
encouragement
The Plant Manager role was filled
honored to have received.
he said. “She embraces new challenges
with new challenges every day — the
“When I was in college, I thought
and is always ready to fill the gap and
type of environment Boynton says she
I’d be in a lab for the rest of my
do whatever is needed by her team or
thrives within.
life, but as I’ve been mentored and
the company. She puts people first and
“What
I
and engaging approach to leadership,”
desires to see everyone be successful.”
how to overcome obstacles, I saw that
But Boynton hasn’t just benefited
drinking from the fire hose, and then
I wanted to strive forward,” Boynton
from mentorship herself, she also
they say, ‘Now we’re going to turn the
said. “I was encouraged and mentored
serves as a mentor to her team
water on,’” she said. “I absolutely love
heavily throughout my time at POET,
members.
that kind of challenge.”
which resulted not only in confidence
used to work in the lab under Boynton,
Just as Boynton felt she was hitting
in what I could do, but in giving me
and when she moved up to the Plant
her stride in that role, the general
the skills I needed to know that I could
Manager role, he was primed to take
manager retired, putting her in the
achieve it.”
her place as POET Biorefining – Caro’s
position, yet again, to pursue more
POET’s commitment to mentorship
Quality Manager.
responsibility.
has resulted in the growth of numerous
“She’s a very good teacher, and
“I had this drive to keep our team
leaders from within the company, of
if you’re ever in a situation where
moving forward when we’re drinking
which Boynton is a prime example.
you underperformed or are looking
from that fire hose,” she said. “The
She also serves as an excellent
to step up, you can lean on her
team itself is exceptional, and I can’t
representative of successful women
knowledge base,” Bauerschmidt said.
say enough about our management
in STEM roles — a pursuit POET cares
“She’s good at breaking things down,
and our team members, and how they
deeply about and continues to foster.
working with you until you find that
all work together and support one
Shon Van Hulzen, POET’s Director of
missing piece that was in your gap of
another.”
Quality Control, has long served as a
knowledge, and building you back up
With forward movement always
mentor for Boynton.
so you can move on.”
front of mind and the strength of her
“Emily has a diligent, enthusiastic
At each stage of an employee’s
like
team behind her, Boynton stepped into the role of General Manager in July 2019. Though she says she has much to learn, she is confident in what lies ahead for POET, both at POET Biorefining – Caro and company wide. “The vision of where we’re going is so strong,” she said. “It’s as strong as it was 17 years ago, and I want to say it’s actually stronger.”
POET’s leadership provides mentoring and encouragement at every stage Though she came in with no ethanol industry experience, Boynton has excelled at POET over the years. She credits her success to POET’s leaders,
whose
mentorship
and Caption
52
is
exposed to challenges and learned
feel
POET
she
is
you
about
says
you’re
sometimes
love
she
VITALBYPOET.COM
Nicholas
Bauerschmidt
career, POET aims to provide a solid foundation for growth and
EMILY BOYNTON
development.
Leadership beyond the plant’s walls
HOMETOWN Born in Jackson, Michigan, but moved all over the country as a kid. Graduated from high school in Alpena, Michigan
Part of the mentorship that POET employees receive includes a strong emphasis on community involvement.
EDUCATION Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Michigan University
For Boynton, her decision to take a job with POET back in 2002 rode heavily on its location. At the time, she had
FAMILY Husband, Jacob, and two sons, Kalean (19) and Logan (17)
two job offers on the table — one located in Chicago and the other with POET — and two young children to
HOBBIES “Jake and I love to cook, which has resulted in loving to eat. We work hard to convert some of our favorite dishes into healthy dishes. How can we make it taste just as good and be just as healthy? We love to kayak, and we read a lot, but we do it all together. We both came from divorced families, so we’re careful and intentional about our marriage. You have to put as much time into your relationships, both inside and outside of work, as you do the actual job. You need to put as much into your relationship as your daily duties, like taking care of the kids or cleaning the house.”
consider. “The
opportunity
to
raise
my
children in a rural community was too much to pass up,” she said. “It gives you a more intimate experience. There’s true caring about each other, and we all want each other to succeed. It’s given my kids a sense of home, safety and consistency.” Caro is a town of around 4,200 people, and when POET first arrived, there was some resistance from the community. The plant now employs 43 people, and according to Boynton, any tension or resistance is long gone, which she attributes to the company’s involvement
and
support
of
the
community. “We do a lot of community events to make sure people have a chance to come out and see what we’re doing,” she said. Recently, POET Biorefining – Caro hosted a “Somebody Cares About You” safety event, similar to a fall carnival. The plant is also actively involved in 4H, the rotary and the Caro Chamber of Commerce. “We
make
sure
we’re
good
neighbors and we’re here to help, and they’ve been reciprocal of that as well,” she said.
In her new position as General
project. You’ll learn it there.’”
Manager, Boynton will have the
From jumping into a role she
opportunity to interact with the
didn’t believe she was qualified for
community even more. Part of her
at the beginning of her career, to an
role
team
unwavering commitment to both her
members are representing POET well
involves
making
sure
team and community, Boynton has
in the community through volunteer
proven herself to be a leader, every
service.
step of the way.
On her own time, Boynton has run a local soccer league with her husband and served as head judge for a local robotics competition. “It really teaches you those soft skills that you have to develop over time,” she said. “I tell our team, ‘Even if you don’t have a role where you can directly lead or supervise at work, go out in the community and pick up a
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
53
DOWN 1. Group marching around campus 2. Racecourses 3. Jeter of baseball 4. Call for 5. Movie souvenir 6. Remarkable thing 7. Opening 8. Graceful fliers 9. Defeatist declaration 10. Synthesizer pioneer 11. Buckeyes, for short 12. Damp area 13. Rate setter 19. Feels pain 21. Government security
agency, abbr.
24. “If at first you don’t succeed...”
is one
25. The Joads, e.g. 26. H.H. ___ (Saki’s real name) 28. Energy 29. Oman resident
ACROSS
31. Negative prefix 32. Grind (one’s teeth)
1. Was a passenger
46. Catches forty winks
33. Ristorante offering
5. Skirt feature
48. Air conditioner meas.
34. Curved
9. “See ya later, everybody”
51. Mason’s brick carrier
36. Jim Croce “Time ___ Bottle”
14. Bread maker
52. Mope
37. Wound protector
15. Do some piano maintenance
55. Makes the cut, in a way
40. Water temperature tester
16. “We’re off __ the Wizard . . .”
58. One of the major steps in
41. Came to pass
17. Sharp
42. President after F.D.R.
18. Medical testing technique
62. Love cards
47. Separate
20. One of ethanol’s qualities
65. Mix
49. “Born in the ___” (Springsteen
22. Mountain runners
66. Be gaga over
song)
23. Ferry destination from
67. Muddled
50. Skipped
Copenhagen
68. Where Bill Walton played
53. Inuit boat
24. Soccer fan in the family
69. 18 holes, generally
54. Stressful
27. Fluid rock
70. LPGA star Cristie
56. Ham’s affirmative
30. Logic game
71. Rot
57. Agronomists’ study
POET’s dry mill process
32. Student score (abbr.)
58. Lobby plant
35. Colorful bearded flower
59. At no time, poetically
38. Passive protest
60. Bygone ruler
39. Location of one of POET’s
61. Flood ship captain
62. Dictionary abbr.
ethanol plants
43. Aluminum producer 44. Sheep discussions
FOR ANSWERS, VISIT vitalmagazineonline.com/answers
45. Spanish for bear
54
VITALBYPOET.COM
63. Fuss and bother 64. Singer, Rawls
DIRECTORY
PG
To receive free information about products
55 AgCountry
ADVERTISER
URL www.agcountry.com
or services advertised or listed in this issue, please contact advertisers via their web address.
19 BBI
05
GEA Group
33
Growth Energy
03 Novozymes
C2 POET
27 POET-DSM
49 POET
C3
POET Nutrition
C4 POET
41
Seeds of Change
www.bbibiofuels.com
www.gea.com
www.growthenergy.org
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OUT OF LEFT FIELD
What Is so Compelling About Superheroes? by Scott Johnson, Data Systems Administrator, POET Why are we so enamored with superheroes? The
beetle’s voice is Matthew McConaughey. I figured it out.
superhero movie genre remains as popular now as ever
You’re welcome, everyone. You can return to enjoying this
before. Although the entertainment market is flooded
movie without the bewildering burden of this familiar, yet
with super content, we appear nowhere near the super-
previously unrecognized voice. I’ll remind you again when
saturation point. Superman, Captain Marvel, Spiderman,
the film credits role, confirming Mathew McConaughey is
Batman, The Flash, Wonder Woman: Their stories convey
indeed portraying the cartoon beetle.”
familiar narratives. They were born with or acquired some
While this may be an uncommon skill, it’s not exactly
amazing power, enabling them to transcend the rules of
“super.”
nature and physics: strength, speed, flight, agility. Some are
The protagonists’ powers in these tales are indeed super
capable of bending space and time itself. They are idolized
cool, super-entertaining and super-alluring. But it’s the
by millions for their abilities to do things others cannot. We
second half of that compound word “superhero” that
continue to devour all the super-ness, in part, because we
resonates with us on a deeper level: The superpowers may
aspire to be like them.
sell, but the heroic deeds compel. We are drawn to the idea
Full disclosure: when I say “we” I really mean “I.” I dream
that we too can be heroes. There is no need for us to dive
of being a superhero. When the movie credits roll, I can’t
into a pool of radioactive spiders. Heroism is not limited
help but ponder: What would my path to superhero-ism
to those with transcendent powers and otherworldly
look like? What would my superpower be?
aptitude. Anyone can be a hero. Everyone should be a hero.
I hate to be picky, but I’d prefer some capability other
Mentor a vulnerable kid. Serve at the local soup kitchen.
than the gift of flight, given my fear of heights. Aqua-power
Sign up for that mission trip. Heroic opportunities are so
wouldn’t be my cup of tea since I suffer from the fear of
abundant, it’s a bit silly even to cite specific examples. The
open water. Super strength might be difficult to attain due to
only requirement is to serve others in need. Not because of
my fear of protein shakes. (It’s a rare, yet totally legitimate
a bat signal in the sky imploring us to action. But because
phobia.) Could speed be my core super-competency? I can
it’s simply the right thing to do.
type 66 words per minute according to the first free typing
The movies frequently portray a reluctant journey from
speed test I could find on the internet. That’s respectable,
average joe to superhero. Being a hero and doing good is
but it hardly qualifies as “super.”
hard. We too are often hesitant to use our unique gifts to
Maybe I just need to replicate the classic superhero look?
benefit humankind. It’s easier to do nothing and let the
For superheroes, wearing spandex in public is more than
world fend for itself. In the real world, there isn’t always a
tolerable; it’s expected attire. I don’t do spandex, but I once
bad guy to thwart. Sometimes the greatest battle is against
rocked a pair of skinny jeans I accidentally purchased
our own apathy and indifference. (Most boring superhero
and was too lazy to return. This probably didn’t meet the
fight-scene ever.) But while inaction is comfortable, it’s also
eligibility requirements for “super.”
unfulfilling.
Sometimes the powers these characters possess are
We may never hit the saturation point of superhero
simply being extremely rich and/or extremely smart and/
movies because we will never run out of a need for heroes.
or extremely good looking. Strike 1. Strike 2. Strike 3. I
Our obsession goes beyond watching attractive characters
perhaps approach “marginal” or “adequate” thresholds for
in tights for two hours. We continue to welcome nagging
these traits, but definitely not “super.”
reminders that there is justice yet to be served in our world,
I do possess a slightly above-average ability to identify
and we are all capable of saving the day. Sometimes we
celebrity voice actors of animated characters. My talent
just need reassurance that not all superheroes wear capes.
manifests itself when I blurt out epiphanies during the
Some of them wear skinny jeans.
middle of a cartoon movie: “Matthew McConaughey! The
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imagination
is an endless resource
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At POET, we understand that when it comes to energy solutions, the earth provides everything we need, no drilling required. Right here in South Dakota, we use renewable resources to create biofuels, nutrient-rich proteins and oil alternatives. Even after three decades, brand new innovations keep sprouting.