THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE Spring 2020
POET’s Newest Co-product POET uses strengths in engineering and operations to meet critical need & protect frontline workers from COVID-19
Seeds of Change: Cultivating Hope in the Face of Crisis Federal Infrastructure Program will Expand Market Access to Unleaded 88
COLUMNS 03
In Sight
By Jeff Broin
48
Nascar® Update
by Ryan Welsh
51
Farm Fresh
by Brian Hefty
53
Mechanics Corner
Automotive Advice from the Under the Hood radio show
56
Out Of Left Field
by Scott Johnson
DEPARTMENTS 06
Energy For Life
22
Renew
44
People of POET
54
Prime the Pump
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.
MAIL POET, LLC 4615 North Lewis Avenue Sioux Falls, SD 57104
P / 605.965.2200 F / 605.965.2203 ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Please direct all article ideas, as well as questions or comments regarding the magazine to: vital@poet.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS $4.95 per issue To subscribe, visit www.vitalbypoet.com
COPYRIGHT 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.
16
FEATURES 10
32
Expanding Market Access to Unleaded 88
POET Celebrates International Women’s Day
Federal infrastructure program will help bolster domestic markets and consumer choice at the pump.
POET invites Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, to share insights into leading the industry’s largest trade organization.
16
38
POET’s Newest Co-product POET uses strengths in engineering and operations to meet critical need & protect frontline workers from COVID-19.
A Time to Plant BioAgriculture 2025 plants the seed in South Dakota for new bioproducts and processes for the next generation.
26 Seeds of Change: Cultivating Hope in the Face of Crisis Seeds of Change provides program updates in light of COVID-19.
Publication Design & Layout: Cassie Medema hello@newover.com
In the spirit of its continued commitment to being good stewards of
Visit VitalByPOET.com for exclusive online content.
the environment, POET is proud to produce Vital using 100% recycled paper, with eco-friendly soy-based ink. Cover photo by Brian Koch
Because not finishing isn’t an option If you’re an ethanol producer, finishing fermentations is a must. That’s why we made the Innova® family of stresstolerant yeast products, an evolutionary leap in yeast technology.
IN SIGHT
This too shall pass by Jeff Broin, Founder and CEO of POET
You’ve heard it time and time again these past several weeks
Our planet is not only healing, but is quickly beginning to
– we are living in an unprecedented time. The impacts of
flourish again after decades of being exploited by humans.
the COVID-19 pandemic have upended our routines, our
Vehicle emissions have declined dramatically around
beliefs and, in many cases, our livelihoods.
the globe, resulting in cleaner air than we’ve breathed in decades. Scenic views that have long been clouded by smog
While hundreds of millions of Americans were under orders
can be seen clearly once again, a preview of what a world
to stay at home, domestic demand for fuel plummeted by
powered by biofuels can look like.
more than 50% in a matter of weeks, damaging operating margins for ethanol producers and adding even more strain
This time has also reminded us what POET is truly made
to an already vulnerable farm economy. The entire biofuels
of. Our leadership team has had to make several tough
industry was forced to make adjustments to survive this economic climate, including POET, and it is still unclear when the industry will return to full production. As the old adage goes, “when it rains, it pours,” and some may fear we’re just one setback away from drowning. But I’m a man of faith, and I believe that after every storm comes a rainbow. There are no words to justify what has been lost during the course of this crisis and no way to predict how much it will change our world moving forward; however, we would be remiss to ignore the blessings that have come about as a result. Most of us have had no choice but to hit pause on our overbooked, chaotic lives, providing a much-needed break to reflect upon what truly deserves our time and energy when everyday life resumes. Families are spending their days working and playing together instead of rushing off in separate directions. Communities are making conscious efforts to support local businesses and charitable
yeasts put you in control, eliminating production bottlenecks through their superior stress tolerance. And, with the industry’s most powerful expressed glucoamylase and optional companion enzyme blends, you can maximize performance to get the most out of every fermentation. Welcome to the future of ethanol production.
causes. Teachers, public servants, frontline workers and first responders are getting the appreciation they deserve.
Our planet is not only healing, but is quickly beginning to flourish again after decades of being exploited by humans. Vehicle emissions have declined dramatically around the globe, resulting in cleaner air than we’ve breathed in decades.
decisions in a short period of time; however, we have also managed to come together and achieve some great things for the future. In April we were able to complete the largest merger and refinancing in the company’s history
despite
facing
extraordinary
obstacles, a move that will make us stronger and more resilient in the face of the COVID-19 crisis and other challenges to come. Additionally – in true POET fashion – our team worked tirelessly to find a way to
produce
pharmaceutical-grade
hand
sanitizer in a time when there is a critical shortage. I am incredibly proud of their display of talent and tenacity in the face of hardship and pleased to see that the spirit our company was founded on is alive and well today. Through this we have proven yet again that, by utilizing God’s green Earth and a little ingenuity, agriculture can meet many of the world’s most pressing needs. I have seen countless ups and downs during my three decades in this business, but never anything quite like this. And while this crisis has left a mark on all of us, I am certain we will weather this storm together and emerge even stronger than when it began.
www.novozymes.com THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
3
Small Refinery Exemptions (SREs)
The appeal
The Court Case
The Decision/Ruling
The EPA is illegally giving SREs with zero accountability.
by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals
Why are SREs granted? Oil refineries must prove that they have endured economic hardship specifically because of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).
How does the 10th Circuit Court fit within the U.S. Court Structure?
January 2020
the 10th Circuit Court unanimously declared
the EPA “abused it’s discretion” by approving the handouts. The court overturned all 3 of the SREs given out from 2016 and 2017. The court found that the SREs were granted to “small” refiners who claimed they could not afford to comply with the RFS all while receiving millions of dollars in tax cuts and reporting multimillion dollar profits.
Oil refiners which are given exemptions are not publicly listed by the EPA.
45
Timeline Jan 2020
10th Circuit Court unanimously rules the EPA inappropriately granted SREs.
Feb 2020
Oil state Senators, led by Ted Cruz, send letter to Trump Administration to appeal court’s decision.
Mar 2020
EPA fails to meet the deadline to appeal decision.
Apr 2020
The 10th Circuit rejects petitions by small refineries to reconsider.
Supreme Court of the United States
40
The Supreme Court of the United States hears about 100 to 150 appeals of the more than 7,000 cases it is asked to review every year. That means the decisions made by the 12 Circuit Courts of Appeals across the country and the Federal Circuit Court are the last word in thousands of cases.
35 30 25
How do SREs impact biofuels? SREs reduces the volume of biofuels a refinery is obligated to blend in accordance with the RFS. SREs have destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuel, causing undo harm to the rural economy, farmers and the environment.
20 15 10 5
U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals 2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
0
Total SREs Requested SREs Granted by the EPA Pending SREs
2
Three refineries were identified. In reviewing publicly traded refinery financials, three of the refineries in 2016 and 2017 were identified. In May of 2018, biofuel supporters filed suit to the 10th Circuit Court to challenge the SREs that were granted to these identified and profitable refining companies.
4
What’s Next?
The 94 federal judicial districts are organized into 12 regional circuits, each of which has a court of appeals. The appellate court’s task is to determine whether or not the law was applied correctly in the trial court. Appeals courts consist of three judges and do not use a jury.
9
8 7
6
10
1 3
4 5
11
12 D.C.
12 regions *Also includes a 13th Circuit Court (Federal Circuit) which has selective case types and 12 judges.
VITALBYPOET.COM
10
The EPA could and should apply the 10th Circuit Court’s decision nationwide to the other refineries receiving illegal exemptions.
The EPA may change the methodology used when granting hardship waivers.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
Small refiners may seek review in the Supreme Court
5
ENERGY FOR LIFE
PLANTING FOR AN ABUNDANT HARVEST
THE NEWNESS OF SPRING by Cole Fricke, Wellness Coordinator, POET January might be #1 on the list for starting or trying
by Melissa Fletcher, Spiritual Care Advisor, POET It’s that time of year again — it’s planting season! And,
of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains
whether you are planting a garden or a field, both
alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a
require cultivating the ground, planting seeds, watering,
plentiful harvest of new lives.” In this reference, Jesus
pruning, protecting and harvesting. The work can be
was saying that His life is the kernel of wheat (the seed).
time-consuming, challenging and sometimes even
He will die on the cross and be buried in the tomb
frustrating. But it can also be peaceful, comforting and
(planted), just as the kernel of wheat dies and is planted
very rewarding. And, in the end, it is worth it!
in the soil. But because of His death and resurrection, many people will be given eternal life…just as a dead
In all reality, we are no strangers to this kind of work.
kernel of wheat can bring new life to a barren field.
In Geneses 2:15 it says that “The LORD God placed the
Both will result in a bountiful harvest. For the wheat
man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over
seed, an abundant harvest of wheat. For Jesus, an
it.” Adam found his work enjoyable and pleasant and
abundant harvest of souls that will have eternal life.
there was always a bounty of food available. And,
Jesus said in John 10:10, “I have come that they may
this first garden was to provide food for the physical
have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
nourishment for humans and animals. It was meant to bring life — an abundant life.
Just like planting seeds in a garden or field, we must be willing to plant seeds into the lives of others through
As farmers and gardeners, we know that barren fields
our time, talent and treasure. And, with enough care
produce no yield. You must plant seeds, or nothing is
and in its time, God will bring forth an abundant
going to happen. Everything in life starts as a seed:
harvest…a harvest that gives life. Happy planting!
ideas, relationships, businesses and even churches. But, here’s the thing…nothing is going to happen with those seeds unless they
New Year’s Resolutions, but spring might be a sneakygood time to try some new things. Spring is a more laidback, low-pressure opportunity to try a few changes that might actually stick. There’s just enough external motivation to make the internal motivation easier on you, without all of the pressure and high expectations that New Year’s Resolutions can have. Just go with the flow, keep it simple and casual, and try a few of these very easy habits one at a time to make them last. Your New Spring Thing Challenge is to try something new in your day to day routine. You can add something beneficial (my favorite and easiest intervention), remove something detrimental (even if it’s just 10% of something, not even necessarily the whole thing),
even thinking or paying attention to the consequences.
bring glory to God. We take our seeds, we plant them, we care for them and we wait on God. It takes faith to plant a dead seed in the ground and wait for it to produce a crop. about a
bountiful harvest in John 12:24. He says, “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel
6
Now don’t get too carried away like you might with your
really entrenched that habit. You just do it without
And, faith and obedience
reaping
to our own health and well-being.
month or year or decade has passed by where you’ve
showing an act of faith.
and
up on and use for our own personal gain when it comes
start down a bad habit path and before you know it, a
being obedient to Him and
sowing
turns green. There’s an external cue that we can pick
and familiarity and convenience. Therefore it’s easy to
when we do so we are
us
newness in spring: Farmers plant, eggs hatch, grass
them around. We’re creatures of habit; we like comfort
us to plant seeds because
teaches
behind. There’s kind of an inherent opportunity for
do a full replacement, or shuffle things up and move
are planted. God requires
Jesus
a new healthy habit or two, but spring isn’t too far
VITALBYPOET.COM
Schedule a workout in the morning instead of the evening. Try a different type of workout. Brush your teeth at a different point in the morning. Drink one more bottle of water a day. Swap in one bottle of water for one soda. Attend a new class. Eat one more fist-sized serving of veggies. They don’t have to be big, radical changes all at once, just tweak one little thing or add an easy win to your
Here’s some ideas to get you started:
day and grow it from there. You just might find a
Pack your lunch the night before.
disruptions can yield big dividends.
Pack your workout clothes the night before.
Change isn’t easy, it’s going to make you feel mentally
Add a daily walk.
manageable by breaking it down into simpler forms
Put your walking shoes by the door.
instantaneous, it’s nurtured step by step along the way
Change your normally scheduled lunchtime.
them up brick by brick, and be good to yourself along
more efficient and healthier way to live. Little, fun
and physically uncomfortable, but you can make it and setting yourself up for victory. Success isn’t with planning and effort. Give yourself time, build the way.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
7
opportunity is everywhere if you know where to look
Providing Technologies that Bring More than Food to the Table Our processes and equipment contribute to thousands of products people use every day...from immune-boosting juices to the wine we drink in celebration. Even the condiments on our burgers, the cheese on our sandwiches and the vegetables that nourish us are processed with GEA equipment. Going beyond food, GEA solutions are put to use in power plants, on all types of boats and in water treatment plants. What’s more, sustainability and environmental conservation are key in each and every process we develop. That’s why our commitment to provide the separating technology required to produce renewable biofuels and agricultural co-products is as strong as ever. To learn more about GEA’s centrifuges and separation equipment and the industries we serve, email us at sales.unitedstates@gea.com, call 800-722-6622, or visit us online at gea.com.
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.
Expanding Market Access to
88 UNLEADED by Steve Lange
10
VITALBYPOET.COM
In May of 2019, the Environmental
from 30 to 50% of their total fuel sales.
of
Protection Agency (EPA)--driven by
Less than a year later, in March
stores based in Pennsylvania, HBIIP
President Donald Trump’s promise
of 2020, the U.S. Department of
reinforces one of its company’s core
to “unleash the power of E15 to fuel
Agriculture (USDA) announced the
tenets: consumer choice.
our country all year long”--finally
next step in the plan to “unleash the
“Not only do we want to offer the
removed the 30-year-old restrictions
power of E15.”
consumer more choices,” says Mike
that had limited retail sales of E15
The Higher Blends Infrastructure
Lorenz, Executive Vice President of
during the summer months.
Incentive
will
Petroleum Supply at Sheetz, “but we
Many considered it a test, of sorts,
provide
grants
want to offer them better choices. We
to see what consumers would do
for retailers to make it easier for
can now offer customers this cheaper
with that new choice. And whether
consumers to buy domestic ethanol
fuel that is also higher octane and
retailers would want to invest in E15,
and biodiesel.
cleaner burning and creates American
Program $100
(HBIIP)
million
in
family-owned
convenience
which is regularly marketed as--and maybe better known as--Unleaded 88. E15 passed that test. Consumers bought a record 500 million gallons of E15 in 2019. The average retail site saw summer sales of the fuel increase 46% on a per-store basis, according to Growth Energy, the trade association that represents more than 100 biofuel producers across the country. Retailers reported that sales of E15 jumped to anywhere
This program will help bolster the domestic market for America’s farm families and grow investments in rural communities. This program is a win for our farmers, consumers and the environment.
“The Higher Blends Infrastructure
jobs. We’ve always seen E15 as a great
Incentive
value proposition for the consumer
market
Program access
homegrown,
to
will
expand
clean-burning,
affordable
on many levels.”
biofuels
Sheetz, in fact, was one of the first of
across the nation,” says Rob Walther,
the forward-thinking major retailers
the Vice President of Federal Affairs at
when it came to carrying E15. In
POET. “This program will help bolster
2013, they were an early member of
the domestic market for America’s
Prime the Pump, an industry program
farm families and grow investments
designed to bring E15 to high-volume
in rural communities. This program
retailers. In 2015, they signed on with
is a win for our farmers, consumers,
the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership
and the environment.”
(BIP), a precursor to HBIIP.
For retailers like Sheetz, a chain
“The two biggest reasons we initially
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
11
got into E15 were Prime the Pump
existing locations to carry E15. And,
happened with the increase of E15
bushels and 168 bushels per acre.
Walther, who is based in Washington
and BIP,” says Lorenz, who has been
he says, other retailers will use these
sales in 2019, and they realized the
International
been
D.C., believes that more access —
with Sheetz for 20 years. “And we
incentives to finally get into the E15
potential positives for everyone, from
stagnant for decades (and account
E15 can now be purchased at 2,000
appreciate the fact that the USDA will
and biodiesel market.
the consumer to the retailer to the
for only 15% of annual corn sales),
stations in 30 states — means more
be administering the new HBIIP. In
The HBIIP, according to the USDA,
American farmer.”
and average corn yields for the next
consumer confidence in the fuel.
the previous BIP program, the states
is designed to “help facilities convert
For
the
few years are expected to reach
“We have over 10 billion miles
oversaw the grants, and each of the
to higher ethanol and biodiesel blend-
HBIIP is expected to help drive the
an all-time high of 185 bushels per
traveled in this country on E15,” says
states administered things differently.
friendly status.” This help — $100
production of an additional 7 billion
acre, producing well over 14 billion
Walther. “E15 is the most tested fuel in
Now we’ll have the consistency of
million to be distributed over the next
gallons of biofuel every year, which
bushels.
the history of fuels in this country, and
going directly through the USDA, a
year — will come in the form of grants
would create a homegrown market
“Renewable biofuels are really the
those tests have shown it is perfectly
group that really understands the
to install new pumps and retrofit old
for 2 billion annual bushels of corn.
best way to increase the sale of corn
safe, and better for your vehicle.”
importance of the program.”
ones, run new fuel lines and buy and
That number roughly matches the
and bolster its price,” says Walther.
While Growth Energy and POET
Today, Sheetz serves more than
bury new storage tanks.
USDA’s prediction of 2019’s corn
“This HBIIP program is going to
have praised the HBIIP program,
1.5 million customers every day.
“The USDA absolutely understands
carryout (the amount left over after
help retailers carry E15, and let the
both hope it’s yet another step toward
They carry E15—which they label as
the economics of E15 and they have
the immediate need for a grain has
consumer decide once and for all
leveling the playing field when it
“Unleaded 88”—in 280 of their 600
put together a program that will
been met). A rise in E15 could create
what they want to buy. Do they like
comes to competing with Big Oil.
stores across six states.
have a significant impact on the
an instant market for that excess corn.
saving money? Do they like buying a
Both groups, for instance, believe it
Lorenz says the HBIIP will help
marketplace,” says Mike O’Brien, Vice
And yields continue to rise. Even
product that’s better for their health?
is important that HBIIP is extended to
Sheetz offset the costs of installing E15
President of Market Development
with a record-wet spring, 2019 corn
Better for the environment? That has
cover multiple years of funding.
with every new store while retooling
with Growth Energy. “They saw what
production came in at 13.7 billion
more domestic resource in it? We
“This is the type of program that can
want to let the market decide.”
make a real difference,” says O’Brien.
the
American
farmer,
markets
have
“This is a program that can make
We can now offer customers this cheaper fuel that is also higher octane and cleaner burning and creates American jobs. We’ve always seen E15 as a great value proposition for the consumer on many levels.
long-term inroads for the industry, especially if they extend this out to multiple years.” Another one of the ways to level that field centers around revisiting the Environmental Protection Agency’s required on-pump labeling of E15. “When the EPA created the labeling, they made it look about as scary as you could possibly make it,” says Walther. “It’s orange and black, Halloween colors, and it makes people very concerned about a fuel that is the best option ever available to drivers.” For
Mike
designation
Lorenz, itself
was
the
E15
confusing
for Sheetz customers. “We call the product Unleaded 88,” says Lorenz. “Ninety-seven percent of the gasoline sold in the U.S. is E10, but if you said
octane number. There’s no reason we shouldn’t be able to market it just like we market other fuels. Because we know consumers want this product.” And, he says, the HBIIP—that $100 million investment into ethanol and biodiesel—means more retailers will carry E15, more consumers will buy E15, and more American farmers will find more markets for the country’s excess corn. “Sure, some customers may only buy it because it’s a better value,” Lorenz says. “But that’s fine, too. We know they’re buying a product that is cleaner burning, better for the environment,
reduces
dependence
on foreign oil, and creates American jobs.”
‘E10’ to anyone, no one knows what that is. Likewise, they don’t have any idea what E15 is. They understand unleaded gasoline and that 88 is the
12
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
13
POET PAC
POET PAC
Members in Action
My experience changed my perception of what the PAC is doing for our company and industry. To see our policy teams in action was enlightening and an eye-opener. The
Late last year, biofuel supporters from around the country met in Washington D.C. to advocate on behalf of the biofuel industry. POET PAC members joined this effort and shared their personal stories with elected leaders about the devastating impact the anti-biofuel decisions made in Washington have on our health, economy and future. Here’s what a few attendees had to say about their experience:
effort put in each and every day to keep POET and others like us in the game was inspiring. It puts into perspective what mine and the rest of POET PAC contributor funds are doing for this industry. If you are not already, I strongly encourage you to get involved. We need your help!
Justin Strawn, IT Business Analyst III, POET, LLC Prior to the trip, I believed that our political involvement was important, but my experience has taught
The most interesting part of my experience on the Hill
me that it is vital. I have a greater appreciation for the
was to meet with the congressional offices and share our
work that goes into representing our industry and I know
message with both those who are avid supporters and
that even in difficult times we continue to make headway
those who are not. Before this experience, I did not fully
in Washington. I can clearly see us taking steps toward
appreciate the importance of our presence in Washington
a more renewable future as we educate leaders on the
and the work that needs to be done to keep legislators
benefits of biofuels
informed about issues that affect our industry. After seeing my POET PAC dollars in action, I will continue to be a biofuel advocate and encourage others to get involved.
Aaron Riswold, Senior Financial Business Partner, POET, LLC Bill Rosenau, Laboratory Technician II at POET Biorefining – Groton
Want to get involved? Join POET PAC today. www.poetpac.com
(605) 965-2377
poetpac@poet.com
Contributions to POET PAC are not tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions to POET PAC will be used in connection with federal elections and are subject to the limits and prohibitions of federal law. The maximum an individual may contribute to POET PAC is $5,000 per year ($10,000 per couple). Corporate and foreign national contributions are not permitted under federal law. Please make checks payable to POET PAC. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to obtain and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer for each individual whose contributions aggregate in excess of $200 per calendar year. Your contribution to POET PAC is strictly voluntary.
POET PAC members, along with other biofuel supporters, gathered for three days to advocate for the biofuel industry. During this time they met with elected leaders and were able to recognize those who have been outstanding champions over the years. 14
PAID FOR BY POET PAC THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
15
POET’s Newest Co-product POET uses strengths in engineering and operations to meet critical need & protect frontline workers from COVID-19 Soon after COVID-19 began sweeping the nation, consumers started rapidly stocking up on health-safety products to protect themselves from the virus. Adobe Analytics, an agency that monitors E-commerce transactions for the top 80 online retailers, reported that the December-to-January demand for hand sanitizer jumped more than 1,000%. Nielsen, a company that collects sales data from point of sale scanners, reported hand sanitizer sales in the United States were up 73% in February alone. Unfortunately, this increase in demand led to severe disruption to supply chains of personal protective equipment (PPE) like hand sanitizer. Suddenly, front-line workers – including health care providers and hospital workers – did not have access to the critical supplies needed to prevent the spread of the virus and keep them healthy. “Hand-washing is certainly the best defense mechanism to protect ourselves and prevent the spread of the virus, however, we need something to use when we don’t have access to a sink,” said Linda Studer, the Administrator at
16
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
17
long-term care facility Good Samaritan Society - Luther
To help alleviate the challenges front-line workers
Manor in Sioux Falls, SD.
were facing to keep themselves safe, Jeff Broin, Founder
Studer saw the shortage firsthand as she worked to
and CEO of POET, knew there had to be something his
protect the residents of Luther Manor, many of which
company could do.
fall into a higher-risk category for COVID-19. Across
With POET’s mission in mind -- to be good stewards of
the nation, nursing homes and assisted living facilities
the Earth by converting renewable resources to valuable
have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic as
goods as effectively as possible -- the company embraced
workers struggle to fight a disease that can be especially
its culture of innovation and used its resources and
dangerous for those over 65.
expertise to create a new bio-based sanitizer product.
“We were definitely impacted by the supply chain
To achieve this, POET engineers worked tirelessly to
disruption and it was instant. All of a sudden you couldn’t
create an additional distillation process for corn, which
find hand sanitizer anywhere. We had what we thought
results in pharmaceutical-grade ethanol, which is then
to be a significant supply in our building but when we
blended into a sanitizer product. The effort required
put in our routine order we were notified it couldn’t be
the company to adjust its manufacturing processes at
fulfilled. We even went out in the community and bought
biorefineries, work around the clock and lean into its
what we could find which wasn’t much. We just couldn’t
strengths in engineering and operations.
find it anywhere,” said Studer.
POET team members worked around the clock to adjust manufacturing processes at the biorefineries and leaned into the company’s strengths in engineering and operations to create a superior, all-natural sanitizer product.
A Superior Product
This shortage was not limited to just South Dakota. A March NBC poll of 250 health
care
providers
from across the country found that many workers were
facing
severe
shortages of basic sanitary supplies, including hand sanitizer, and were afraid of running out. “Hand
sanitizer
is
critical to our infection control protocols. It’s a
Suddenly, frontline workers, including health care providers and hospital workers did not have access to the critical supplies needed to prevent the spread of the virus and keep them healthy.
The resulting product is pharmaceutical grade, meets
FDA
guidelines
and has been verified by toxicologists as safe for human health. In fact, purified ethanol has been used in hand sanitizers and
disinfectants
for
years before the COVID pandemic.
safe, effective and quick
“We wanted to create
way to make sure we’re
a superior product. Our
safe and our residents are
frontline workers deserve nothing but the best. We’re
safe,” said Studer.
proud of what we’ve been able to create and the impact it will have in protecting the public,” says Rod Pierson,
Biofuel Producers Called to Help
Senior Vice President & General Manager for POET Design & Construction.
In March, the World Health Organization called on
Once the process and product were finalized, POET
industry and governments to increase the manufacturing
partnered with Sioux Falls-based companies Senproco
of PPE by 40% to meet global demand. In response, the
Inc. and Cimarron to package and label the sanitizer for
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued guidance for
consumer use.
the production of alcohol-based hand sanitizer products. Rural
communities
have
often
symbolized
the
American spirit of hard work and generosity. During this challenging time, biofuel producers, a critical component of rural America, have once again lived up to that reputation.
18
VITALBYPOET.COM
Donating to those in Need It wasn’t difficult to find a need for the product. After an initial donation to Pioneer Health in Viborg, South
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
19
Dakota, POET partnered with the City of Sioux Falls and the South Dakota Health Care Coalition to identify organizations with the greatest need and oversee the distribution of the donated product. Sioux Falls Fire Rescue pick up a donation of POET sanitizer to help protect themselves while working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We wanted to create a superior product. Our frontline workers deserve nothing but the best. We’re proud of what we’ve been able to create and the impact it will have in protecting the public. “We were feeling kind of desperate about hand sanitizer. We were down to just a few days’ supply when the POET donation arrived, so the timing could not have been better,” says Stader. “The sanitizer provided not only relief but also great peace of mind for our staff. We know it does the job we need it to and that it’s killing germs.”
Next Steps As the country continues to battle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the need for consumer sanitizer products is unlikely to go away. POET has scaled up production of hand sanitizer at three of its 27 biorefineries. It is now supplying the product at local retail stores and online at sanitizerbypoet.com. “It is crucial that we prevent shortages of PPE as we saw when this pandemic began. People need to stay safe and POET is grateful to be in a position to help with those efforts. It’s not something we see going away anytime soon,” said Pierson. USDA Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue specifically called out the efforts of biofuel producers working to Hartford Fire and Rescue receive POET hand sanitizer donation. The donation will allow officers to keep hand sanitizer in each truck, ensuring they are able to stay safe while working with the public.
20
VITALBYPOET.COM
provide relief during the pandemic. “Thank you for being Americans and doing what it takes day in and day out to make this country as great as it has been. So to our ethanol industry: Thank you again for participating in this national emergency in a very helpful, American kind of way.”
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
21
RENEW
POET biorefineries across the Midwest have stepped up to help frontline workers fight COVID-19 by donating precious personal protective gear (PPE) such as masks, gloves, sanitizer and goggles.
POET Biorefining – Caro donated PPE supplies to McLaren Hospital and Compassus Hospice in Caro, MI. The team was able to donate 2000 pairs of gloves, 20 safety glasses, 30 N95 face masks, 17 N99 face masks and 2 safety goggles.
POET Biorefining—Preston donated personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies to the Rochester Salvation Army in Rochester, MN. The team was grateful to have an opportunity, no matter how big or small, to help the people working on the frontlines of the pandemic and making a difference in our communities.
The team at POET Biorefining—Coon Rapids donated N95 masks to St. Anthony Hospital located nearby in Carroll, IA which was experiencing a severe shortage of PPE required to keep their health care staff and staff working on the frontlines of COVID-19 safe.
22
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
23
RENEW
DIRECTORY To receive free information about products or services advertised or listed in this issue, please contact advertisers via their web address.
PG ADVERTISER 27 AgCountry 52 BBI
POET Biorefining—Marion donated 15 boxes of nitrile
15
GEA Group
23
Growth Energy
02 Novozymes
exam gloves to Ohio Health Marion General
22 POET
Hospital in Marion, OH.
08 POET-DSM 09 POET 44
POET Biorefining—
C4 POET
Marion also facilitated a
27
60-Gallon Hand Sanitizer donation to the Lexington, KY Police Department. The sanitizer was made in partnership with Oakley Brothers’ Distillery who produced the sanitizer using ethanol supplied by the Marion biorefinery.
24
POET Nutrition
VITALBYPOET.COM
Seeds of Change
URL www.agcountry.com www.bbibiofuels.com www.gea.com www.growthenergy.org www.novozymes.com www.poet.com www.poet-dsm.com www.poet.com www.dakotagold.com www.poet.com www.seedsofchange.org
Seeds Change OF
Cultivating hope in the face of crisis by Miranda Broin
to make more. The strips help a great deal for individuals required to wear masks all day, as they extend the mask’s elastic straps away from one’s ears to relieve pain and discomfort. The product has a simple design but requires substantial time and resources to print. That’s where Seeds of Change was able to step in. Although we and all of the Mission Hope participants were devastated by the cancellation of this year’s service trip, we are extremely grateful for the ability to reallocate some of those funds and benefit frontline workers here at home by funding Olson’s facemask extender project. “The devices alleviate pain and pressure for the critical workers in our communities,” said Olson. “We were thrilled to be able to help them in some small way with the support from Seeds of Change.” More than 17,000 strips have been
We may feel helpless, but we are
times, it can be easy to get caught up
not.
in the negativity; to feel helpless as the
Challenging times have a way of
entire world is turned upside down
creating opportunities to bring hope
around us while we’re confined to our
to those who need it most. Despite the
homes.
many difficulties we’re all facing and
At Seeds of Change, we’ve faced
the uncertainty that lies ahead, Seeds
disruption and disappointment as
of Change has been able to come
well. Some of our favorite and most
together with individuals at home and
successful fundraisers – at which we
abroad to spread some positivity and
get to interact with our dedicated
goodwill in the face of crisis.
we must not take for granted how
Making a difference on the frontlines
resources, comforts, and amenities
supporters
and
share
or
postponed
in
indefinitely.
We
were forced to cancel our annual Mission Hope trip for the safety of everyone involved, an unfortunate but necessary decision that was not made lightly. And, most importantly, we’ve been concerned about our friends and partners overseas as the pandemic continues to wreak havoc in every corner of the world.
VITALBYPOET.COM
surrounding
of us are tired of the monotony of quarantining at home. But while these circumstances are certainly not ideal, blessed we are to have access to basic that millions around the world are lacking. Fortunately, Seeds of Change has been able to work with some of our incredible partner organizations to ease the strain of stay-at-home orders for hundreds of families in need.
After using his husband’s 3D printer
Olson was inundated with requests
and
There’s no doubt about it – many
Sioux Falls.
a neighbor in early April, Mitchell
Falls
Food for Change
First came a local opportunity in
to make facemask ear-saver strips for
Sioux
communities to date.
important
project updates – have been canceled
26
printed and distributed to individuals
In the midst of these unprecedented
Mitchell Olson smiles with 3D printed mask strips donated by Seeds of Change.
AsOne Ministries, a Seeds of Change partner, works with communities in Uganda to eliminate poverty through
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
27
holistic
development.
campaign helped to prove that it has
However, their mission, like ours,
not squandered people’s compassion
has been interrupted by the impact
or generosity.
of COVID-19, causing them to pivot in
“Early on in this crisis, I heard it said
order to meet more immediate needs
that this moment in history presents
in their project areas.
an opportunity to fortify communities
With
community
a
country-wide
lockdown
of love and care for our neighbors,”
in place, food scarcity has quickly
said Andrew DeVaney, AsOne Founder
become a pervasive problem in rural
and CEO. “In this present moment, we
Uganda. Many casual workers and
must lead in a way that reduces fear
day laborers have been forced to stay
and increases hope. In the simplest yet
home, nearly halting the economic
most profound ways, Seeds of Change,
activity of the country and leaving
AsOne, and a community of great
many families unable to obtain daily
people showed what it truly means to
meals. AsOne was able to provide
love our neighbor as ourselves when
relief to hundreds of families with a
they needed it most.”
food security campaign in early April, but a three-week extension of the lockdown on April 14 exacerbated the issue even further.
Nairobi food distribution
That’s when AsOne partnered with us to launch “Food for Change,” an
The people of Kenya are facing great
online campaign to raise another
difficulties in the face of COVID-19 as
$10,000 dollars in order to provide
well, especially in the vulnerable slum
700 families in rural Uganda with
communities in the heart of Nairobi.
enough meals and hygiene products
Poor sanitation and overcrowding
to last through 2.5 additional weeks of
make
lockdown.
impossible, and a strict nationwide
In just a week, “Food for Change”
curfew has been violently enforced by
was able to raise more than $5,000,
the police.
which was matched by Seeds of
The movement restrictions have left
Change to distribute more than 850
many individuals wondering where
food packages to feed more than
they will get their next meal, causing
4,000 Ugandans. The pandemic has
desperation and, at times, sheer panic.
certainly shaken the world, but this
In fact, a food distribution organized
physical
distancing
nearly
Through a collaboration with Seeds of Change, AsOne Ministries was able to distribute 850 food packages to individuals living in rural Uganda at the end of April. The country was on lockdown for several weeks due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Primary school students in Nairobi smile after receiving food packets through Light Up Hope.
28
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
29
In this present moment, we must lead in a way that reduces fear and increases hope. In the simplest yet most profound ways, Seeds of Change, AsOne, and a community of great people showed what it truly means to love our neighbor as ourselves when they needed it most.
by a well-wisher in the Kibera slum on April 10 turned to chaos when a stampede occurred, leaving several injured and two dead. Light Up Hope, a Seeds of Change
Seeds of Change has sponsored a feeding program for students at Waterlink Primary School in Nairobi since January of this year.
partner organization that works to pave a path out of poverty for orphans and other impoverished Kenyans, came to us with a great opportunity to take action. Since January of this year, we have been in collaboration to implement a feeding program at Waterlink Primary and provide staff salaries at Gifted Prince Primary, two schools in the Nairobi slums. However, with Kenya’s schools no longer in session, these programs were put on hold. Thanks to Light Up Hope and their team on the ground in Kenya, Seeds of Change will sponsor food packages for all 343 students from the two schools in May. Each package contains
Primary school students in Nairobi smile after receiving food packets through Light Up Hope.
flour, porridge, cooking oil, sugar, and soap for the students to take home to their families for the month. Due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic, we hope to provide these packages for as many months as they are needed. COVID-19 may be keeping us apart physically, but we have never seen such an outpouring of compassion
Andrew DeVaney, AsOne Founder and CEO
and kindness, or so much effort to come together for the good of others. We are beyond grateful for the continued funding, prayers, and kind words from our incredible supporters, giving us a glimpse of the hope that will sprout from the wreckage when this storm passes. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. –Galatians 6:9
30
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
31
POET Celebrates International Women’s Day by Jessica Sexe
mily Skor, CEO of Growth
Day. International Women’s Day is
brothers. We chopped the firewood
Energy, the largest biofuels
celebrated globally on March 8 and
and we ironed the linen napkins for
trade organization, knows
is an opportunity to honor the social,
Thanksgiving dinner. There were no
that oftentimes she is the
economic,
gender roles in our family. The girls
only woman in a meeting. In
achievements of women.
cultural
and
political
did everything and we just didn’t talk
fact, she may be the only female CEO
Growing
Paul,
about it. I went to an all-woman’s
many people she encounters have
Minnesota, Skor wasn’t always so
college, and so there again, you didn’t
ever met. But, that’s not something
aware of traditional gender roles. “I
talk about who’s raising their hand
that deters her or motivates her.
was one of four girls in my family, no
and who’s talking in class,” said Skor.
up
in
Saint
Skor isn’t driven by breaking gender stereotypes, or being the best female CEO. She’s driven by the enormous potential of biofuels to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change, bolster the rural economy and provide affordable fuel to consumers. She also strives to be the best CEO she can be, gender aside. In March, POET hosted Skor for a Q&A session for team members
Skor isn’t driven by breaking gender stereotypes, or being the best female CEO. She’s driven by the enormous potential of biofuels to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change, bolster the rural economy and provide affordable fuel to consumers.
as part of a series of events to celebrate
32
VITALBYPOET.COM
International
Women’s
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
33
When she entered the workforce,
the highest-grossing firms. While that
serve as General Managers at POET
and girls believing they can be in
the importance of providing these
community.
gender roles were still not something
number is low, it is an improvement
Biorefineries. Boynton has been with
similar positions. However, she says
opportunities.
mission
In addition to outreach events,
that she noticed or sought out.
from years prior.
POET for 17 years, and was most
working in the biofuels industry
and vision center on changing the
POET has also supported the next
However, she does acknowledge that
Nationally,
also
recently promoted to the General
is about rising to the occasion and
world and tackling some of the most
generation of leaders through the
although she may not aspire to break
underrepresented in the fields of
Manager role at POET Biorefining –
overcoming obstacles, not about an
pressing social and environmental
Never Satisfied Scholarship Program.
gender stereotypes, by being a female
science, technology, engineering and
Caro in Caro, Michigan. As a woman
individual’s gender. “This position
issues like climate change. We need
Now in its fourth year, POET has
CEO, she is doing it every day.
math (STEM). While women fill 47%
in a traditionally male dominated
suits me well because I enjoy facing
everyone, women and men, to help us
annually selected 10 students who
“In my day I most often am the
of all U.S. jobs, they make up only 24%
industry, Boynton credits her success
new challenges and encouraging my
work toward these goals.”
have embodied a ‘Never Satisfied’
only, or one of very few women in a
of the STEM workforce. However, at
to mentors who believed in her
team to do the same. I want to help
POET continued the celebration
mentality to be awarded a scholarship
meeting. And that’s in any meeting,
POET Research, more than 30% of
abilities and her passion to take on
remove the stigma that women can’t
of International Women’s Day by
of $5,000. To be selected, students
whether I’m in the Midwest or in
science and technical positions are
new challenges every day.
work in bioprocessing. At POET, we
partnering with Women’s Day of
must show that they are working to
Washington, DC. If it’s a meeting in
held by women. The areas of expertise
“Unfortunately,
women
are looking for individuals who want
Service, an event focused
the White House, if it’s Capitol Hill, if
that female scientists and engineers
and girls may not see themselves
to work with us toward our mission to
on helping women in the
it’s stakeholders. So that’s my norm
bring to POET include analytical
in a leadership role, especially as a
change the world, and we need driven
Sioux Falls community who
and I’m pretty used to it. So for me, my
chemistry, enzymology, microbiology
General Manager of a bioprocessing
men and women to join our team to
lack access to resources.
focus is not to be the best female CEO,
and engineering.
facility,” said Boynton.
do so,” said Boynton.
The event was preceded by
it’s to be the best CEO,” said Skor.
Many of the women working at
Boynton
According to the latest Fortune 500
POET are breaking gender stereotypes.
lack of female examples in STEM
list, female CEOs made up just 6.6% of
Becky Pitz and Emily Boynton both
can
women
are
many
recognizes
contribute
to
that
fewer
POET team members and their families package donations for Women’s Day of Service
34
VITALBYPOET.COM
“POET’s
the
women
At POET, we are looking for individuals who want to work with us toward our mission to change the world, and we need driven men and women to join our team to do so.
To facilitate the next generation
a donation drive at POET
of women and men to contribute to
for basic toiletries, hygiene
their mission to change the world,
products
POET oversees a number of outreach
essentials for new moms.
and educational opportunities for
“The goal of this project is
students. One such initiative is a
about supporting women in
partnership
and
our community who need a
the South Dakota School of Mines
little extra help or love. The
and Technology (SDSMT) Women
women we are supporting
in Science and Engineering (WiSE)
may be at a place in their
program.
to
life where everyday items
educate, recruit, retain and graduate
that we take for granted are
academically motivated women in
a luxury for them, or hard
STEM fields through outreach events.
to come by. Providing these
These events allow women and girls
items seems simple, but
in the South Dakota Black Hills region
to them can help provide
to interact with female professionals
relief, comfort or even fill a need they
change the world for the better. Two
in STEM fields and exposes them to
have” said Women’s Day of Service
previous recipients, Hailey Kingsbury
the many opportunities available in
event organizer Heather Krause. In
and Emerson Peaslee, are using the
STEM careers through interactive
total, POET team members donated
opportunity provided to them by
exhibits and mentorship.
thousands of sanitary products and 35
POET to make the world a better place
Amber Unser, Vice President of
New Mommy Kits to over 850 women
for other women through access to
People and Culture at POET, recognizes
in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota
clean water.
between
WiSE
is
POET
designed
and
helpful
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
35
and girls in developing nations face of gathering water. When asked about her future plans Peaslee
explained,
“My
eventual
goal is to work with an organization that builds wells in these developing countries so that we can help provide water to women that will free up time for them to get a job, get an education, and support their family in a different way.” Peaslee explained that many girls in developing nations are pulled out of school to help gather water at a very young age. “I personally think that education is one of the biggest tools that can be used to decrease the disparity between men and women,” says Peaslee. These efforts to help women locally and globally are at the core of the message Emily Skor provided POET team members when asked for advice on how to advance one’s career. “Be kind. A lot of people think to have power it comes with having an attitude, and being a jerk, and
big ideas
just crushing people and burning Hailey
a
Never
time
bridges. And that’s one approach. And
Satisfied scholar of 2019, founded
disproportionate
seeking it out. This is precious time
there’s some very successful people
the philanthropy ‘Girls for Girls’ in
that could be spent on their education
who take that approach. That is not
between studying for her bachelor’s
or earning income. Kingsbury says
my approach. Maybe it’s because
degree in Speech Pathology and
she was inspired by POET’s nonprofit
I’m female, I tend to be more of a
Audiology at Miami University in
Seeds of Change, whose mission is
consensus builder, but you meet a lot
Oxford, OH. Girls for Girls seeks to
to cultivate sustainable, worldwide
of people on the way up and you meet
provide access to clean water for
change
the same people on the way down,”
women and girls in underdeveloped
through the power of education and
said Skor.
nations. “With Girls for Girls, I have
agriculture.
Consensus building and inclusion
the mission to provide people with
Emerson Peaslee, another Never
are more important than ever in
access to clean water and to empower
Satisfied scholar of 2019, was also
today’s
young girls to use their talents to
inspired to help girls and women
we’re facing—climate change, hunger
serve others. Access to clean water is
through Seeds of Change. Peaslee
and disease—are not goals unique to
an issue that is not easily solved, but I
is a freshman at the University of
POET. These are seemingly impossible
hope that my actions help to bring us
Iowa
Environmental
challenges that each of us must
closer to a solution,” says Kingsbury.
Engineering. She works with her local
work toward for the betterment of
Many women in developing nations
chapter of Engineers without Borders
humanity and the world. It will take
are responsible for providing water
to help build and restore wells to
all of us, men and women, working in
for their family’s sanitation, drinking
provide a clean source of water for
unity to find and apply the solution,
and cooking needs. Without readily
people in El Salvador. Peaslee was
together.
available clean water, women spend a
similarly moved by the burden women
by
majoring
amount
of
transforming
in
VITALBYPOET.COM
lives
environment.
The
issues
open doors to big solutions 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.
POET.COM
36
Kingsbury,
by Matt Merritt
Barry Dunn, the state’s agriculture
It provides growth and opportunities
in South Dakota, with
industry is missing out on enormous
for all residents.
dreams of a perpetual
opportunities.
Rather
than
Jim Rankin, President of SDSMT,
harvest of new ideas and
transforming
commodities
into
says universities support growing
economic prosperity.
higher-value products, South Dakota
business
South Dakota Gov. Kristi
ships most of it out. Two-thirds of the
Dakota because they want to train
Noem on March 27 signed into law
state’s soybeans and 40% of the state’s
students to work in industries that
an
corn is exported out of state.
support the state.
develop a bioprocessing R&D facility
Dunn told lawmakers he’d like to
“Economic development is a big
in Brookings, S.D. What is being
change that.
part of what we think is important,”
called “South Dakota BioAgriculture
“With this initiative, new products
he says. “How do we create more
2025” is a research collaboration
and new businesses will be developed
jobs?
between private businesses and two
in our state around those bioprocesses
companies? How do we keep more
universities to create value-added
and products,” he says. “And those
of our graduates in the state of South
agricultural products, spawn new
new products will put us in the world
Dakota?”
businesses and put South Dakota
marketplace with much higher-value
POET President and Chief Operating
among the leaders in ag and science
products.”
Officer Jeff Lautt says agriculture is “the
nationwide.
BioAgriculture
with
engine of South Dakota’s economy.” It
The bill’s primary sponsor – South
funding for the facility’s planning
is the No. 1 industry, responsible for
Dakota Rep. David Anderson – has
and
building
20% of the state’s economic activity
called his bill “A Time to Plant, and a
partnerships with private businesses.
and $21 billion annually. That makes
Time to Reap.”
With additional federal and private
it the perfect place for an initiative
investment, the new facility will
like BioAgriculture 2025.
A Time to Plant
hey’re planting a seed
appropriation
At
a
February
to
design
and
Appropriations
design
as
2025 well
starts as
meeting, he asked colleagues for
launch in 2022.
approval to position South Dakota for
Dave Bushong, Senior Vice President
the future. He asked them to plant the
of Research at POET, says universities
seed.
with
“This seed is going to need some
and private businesses with their
fertilizer,” he says. “It’s going to need
expertise in taking ideas and creating
some water, sunshine and cultivation.
commercial
… We want to plant a seed today that
partners. Similar efforts have yielded
the harvest may not come for 10
results in other industries. The Bay
years, 20 years, 30 years. But you get
Area, for example, with universities
no harvest if you don’t plant a seed.”
including Stanford and UC-Berkeley is
BioAgriculture 2025
their
research
value
capabilities
are
perfect
known today for microbiology due to such initiatives. “I think South Dakota is striving to
South Dakota BioAgriculture 2025
become a leader in the fundamental
will allow students from South Dakota
conversion of ag commodities to
State University and the South Dakota
value-added products,” he says.
School of Mines and Technology to work hand-in-hand with researchers and experts from private companies to develop new uses for the state’s crop and forestry products. According
to
SDSU
Economic development for all Economic
President
development
benefits
more than just individual businesses.
opportunities
How
do
we
in
create
South
more
With this initiative, new products and new businesses will be developed in our state around those bioprocesses and products. And those new products will put us in the world marketplace with much higher-value products. Barry Dunn, SDSU President
38
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
39
POET’s coproducts include biofuel, feed solutions, asphalt rejuvenator and clarified oils.
POET’s entire enterprise is focused on creating new applications, products and markets for agriculture commodities, new revenue stream for farm families and rewarding careers for the next generation of South Dakotans. Jeff Lautt, POET President and Chief Operating Officer
The SDSU campus will be home to BioAgriculture 2025. Photo courtesy of SDSU.
“South Dakota with its rich agriculture and the bright minds of its young students has a ripe opportunity to be a leader and to continue to drive the bio-based economy for decades to come,” he says. Michael
Walz,
POET
Director
of Public Affairs, says renewable innovations could completely redefine the marketplace — shifting prosperity from fossil fuel-producing states to agriculture states. “The Midwest has the abundant renewable resources and
intellectual
capital
to
drive
tomorrow’s bio-based economy,” he says. “Value-added agriculture not only creates new value for America’s farm families, it also creates exciting homestate career opportunities for many of our best and brightest.” Walz says. Staff and students at SDSMT have started conducting research to develop new bio-based products at the laboratory level which will be scaled up for broader industry applications. This work will be expanded at the BioAgriculture 2025 facility.
40
VITALBYPOET.COM
The “Next Big Thing” In Gov. Noem’s State-of-the-State Address last year, she challenged South Dakotans to come up with the “Next Big Thing” to drive economic growth in South Dakota. Noem
says
South
Dakota
BioAgriculture 2025 builds on the state’s success in bioprocessing to drive such growth. “Bioprocessing is an important part of moving South Dakota forward and expanding business opportunities for families and communities,” she says. “Transforming South Dakota-grown crops into products that benefit the rest of the state provides support for producers and helps our economy thrive.”
Jeff Lautt agrees. “POET’s entire enterprise is focused on
creating
new
applications,
products and markets for agriculture commodities, new revenue stream for farm families and rewarding careers for the next generation of South Dakotans,” he says. Partnerships between universities and businesses can take ideas to new heights, he says. “It starts with the bright minds of young students combined with the efforts and capabilities of higher education
to
collaborate
with
companies like ours to make that a reality.” South Dakota’s “Next Big Thing” will be built on its current big thing: agriculture. All it takes is a seed.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
41
EXPLORE THE POWER OF CONNECTION
JOIN POET’S TALENT NETWORK TO BE THE FIRST TO KNOW ABOUT NEW CAREER OPENINGS.
POET.COM/TALENTNETWORK
PEOPLE OF POET
Anna Andersen makes positive impact in her new home as a recent U.S. citizen by Jessica Sexe
rowing
VITALBYPOET.COM
Poland,
of things that translate.”
visa. To apply for citizenship, she had
Anna Andersen knew she
In her position, Andersen works
to be a green cardholder for at least
wanted to pursue a career
primarily on cellulosic ethanol on
three years. She applied last year and
in science but had no idea
the POET Research team. “In the
it took seven months. “It’s not an easy
end, cellulosic ethanol will be the
process,” says Andersen. However,
one day lead her to work for POET, the
most sustainable way to produce
having a green card/immigration visa
world’s largest producer of biofuels,
biofuels so it’s important to get the
allowed her to do everything a citizen
in a Midwestern community across
technology down so we can use it on
can do except vote in elections and
the world.
a larger scale.” Her days are spent
have certain security clearances.
Andersen received her bachelor’s
in the lab setting up and performing
The
degree
experiments
citizenship
in
Engineering
degree
in
and
her
and
analyzing
and
next
step
to
included
acquiring submitting
Biotechnology
presenting data. “Every day, every
numerous documents to prove her
from Gdansk University of Technology
week is different. There may be a
identity. She then had to take a civics
in Gdansk, Poland.
new way to look at something and we
test and go through an interview,
Andersen’s
44
in
her passion for biochemistry would
master’s
Andersen works in the lab at POET Research
up
husband
is
might change our plans completely.
American and grew up on a farm near
It’s pretty fast-paced and it keeps us
Valley Springs, South Dakota. The
excited.”
couple met while Chris was stationed
POET
in Japan with the U.S. Air Force.
way
They got married shortly before she
tools,
graduated with her master’s degree.
produced from domestic agricultural
After they were married, the two
commodities
lived in Japan for two years before
farmers, economy and environment
Chris was stationed back in the United
thriving
States. The couple lived in New Mexico
really like that I get to work on a
for eight months before moving to
large variety of projects. There are
Brandon to be near Chris’s family.
different types of processes that
Thanks to Chris’s family’s ties to
go into producing biofuels, from
agriculture, Andersen was familiar
pretreatment to enzymatic hydrolysis
with POET when the two moved to the
to fermentation. The fact that I get to
area. She was excited to get a job with
work on all of the processes in one
POET in 2018 as an Associate Research
way or another is pretty exciting.” She
Scientist where she could use her
says that this variety has helped her
knowledge and passion for chemistry
learn many different procedures and
and biology to help toward POET’s
allowed her to expand her knowledge
mission to change the world. “Being
base substantially. “There’s not one
able to work for POET while also being
thing I’ve been doing here since the
close to my husband’s family is a great
beginning and that’s the only thing
opportunity for us,” says Andersen.
I know. I’ve gotten to do a lot of
While
different things.”
Andersen’s
Chris
studies
were
Research
with
products
for
is
leading
innovative and
that years
the
bio-based applications
will to
keep come.
our “I
mostly focused on the food industry,
To become a U.S. Citizen Andersen
she easily sees the connection between
had to first get an immigration visa.
food science and biofuels. “We’re
She started this step while living in
working with corn, we’re working
Japan when her husband got orders
with plants. A lot of the things we
from the military to move to New
use here are similar to what the food
Mexico. The process took almost a
industry would use, so there are lots
year. Afterward, she had to renew her
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
Every day, every week is different. There may be a new way to look at something and we might change our plans completely. It’s pretty fastpaced and it keeps us excited.
45
which included testing her writing
their citizenship before the assembled
provided letters of support to the U.S.
and speaking abilities. After that
audience. The ceremony also included
Citizenship and Immigration Services
came a lot of waiting. Andersen said,
a speech from U.S. Magistrate Judge
Office of Homeland Security. Her
“It’s not easy but if you’re honest, you
Veronica Duffy, remarks from Sioux
colleagues also surprised her with
work hard and you have nothing to
Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken and a
flowers, balloons and apple pie when
hide they won’t deny you.”
keynote speech from Clara Hart, a
she returned to the office after the
local immigration rights activists and
citizenship ceremony. “I’ve had a lot of
former refugee.
support from my teammates. They’ve
Andersen said when her name was
been cheering me on and offering to
called she went onstage, introduced
help the whole time. They’ve always
herself and announced where she
made me feel welcome. I’ve never had
was from, received her certificate,
the feeling that I’m any different from
shook hands and went to register
them.”
to vote. “I immediately registered
Her family in Poland was also
myself to vote,” Andersen said it was
excited for her. “They’re excited that I
important to her to finally be able to
get to pursue my career and do things
vote in all elections now that she is a
that I love, and that I found somebody
U.S. Citizen. She felt it was a way she
I can spend my life with, my husband.”
could be active in the community she
In her spare time, Andersen enjoys
now belongs to.
crafting, board games, video games
She also threw an “All-American
and spending time with her three
Party” to celebrate which included
rescue dogs. Her most recent furry
barbecue, sloppy Joes, baked beans,
family member was what Andersen
hot dogs, brownies, cheesecake and
refers to as a ‘foster fail’ meaning they
Doritos.
decided to adopt him into their family
Andersen says her colleagues at
instead of fostering him temporarily.
POET were very supportive during
After volunteering at the Humane
the entire process and many of them
Society for several years, Andersen
I really like that I get to work on a large variety of projects. There are different types of processes that go into producing biofuels, from pretreatment to enzymatic hydrolysis to fermentation. The fact that I get to work on all of the processes in one way or another is pretty exciting.
In December 2019 Andersen learned she was invited to a citizenship ceremony that would take place Jan. 10, 2020, at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. The ceremony included 192 people from 53 different countries; she was the only person from Poland. Each person gave their oath of allegiance to the United States in the naturalization ceremony, proclaiming
Andersen works in the lab at POET Research and her husband decided to start
Andersen says now that she has
Americans is that you can have
fostering dogs. She fostered seven
found her own forever home here in
somebody walk down the street, and
dogs before her most recent adoption.
America, it’s important to her to give
you don’t know them but they’ll say,
When asked if it was difficult to be a
back to her community and she can
‘Hi how are you?’” The kindness she’s
foster dog parent she said, “It’s almost
do that by helping animals in need.
been shown by her family in the U.S.,
exciting to see them go to a family
“I don’t know if all Americans realize
her co-workers at POET and even
that can give them all the love they
how awesome it is. It’s a huge nation.
people on the street have all helped
need. Because you know in the foster
Some of the states are the size of
her feel more at home.
environment they get the safety and
countries in Europe, but you’re all
Now that she is a U.S. citizen,
the warmth of the house but they
Americans. It’s a huge community and
Andersen feels that the sky is the
don’t get the same level of attachment
you all have a sense of belonging.”
limit. “The only thing I cannot do is
they get from their forever family. In
When asked if there are any key
be president. I can be a senator but I
the end, they go to a house that they’re
differences between life in Poland
cannot be president.” When asked if
going to spend the next 10, 12, 15
and life in America she replied,
she has political aspirations for the
years in so that’s the ultimate goal to
“I think people here are a little
future she laughed and said: “I think
see them in a house that will be theirs,
nicer to strangers. One odd thing I
I like what I do.”
not just a temporary one.”
noticed when I started living among
Andersen’s Three Rescue Dogs- Dante, Virgil and Pixel
46
VITALBYPOET.COM
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
47
NASCAR UPDATE
Chassis #490
A Token of Gratitude by Ryan Welsh A famous Greek philosopher wrote that gratitude is not
Richard Childress, NASCAR legend, American Ethanol
only the greatest of the virtues but the parent of all of the
partner and advocate, farmer and Growth Energy
others. A pretty strong statement if you give it some thought.
board member has been with us since the beginning
Especially if he means it tops all other virtues like kindness,
back in 2011. He and his team felt Jeff’s efforts in the
patience and humility to name a few. Recent gestures of
sport garnered a thank-you. Here comes Chassis #490.
gratitude I’ve received comprised of a 12 pack of beer, a bottle of Champagne, even a jar of moonshine.
Unlike Ronald Reagan’s gift, Chassis #490 enters civilian life with a purpose not too far off from the
Pretty good for me. Heads of state have often been known
duty of NASCAR race cars. Jeff wants to use this gift
to exchange noteworthy thank-yous. Back in the late 1960s
to promote, educate and inform on behalf of the
due to Arab kings bringing gifts like luxury cars and fine
industry. This car is far from being retired. Its new
horses, new rules were put in place limiting the value of
life is just beginning. You will see it out and about
gifts our presidents can receive. In 1984 the president of
promoting the benefits of ethanol.
Sri Lanka gifted President Ronald Reagan a baby elephant representing the friendship and similarities between the two countries. Jeff Broin, founder of both Growth Energy and POET, received one of the most awesome gifts I’ve ever seen from Richard Childress Racing in late December. A legitimate NASCAR race car: The Chassis #490. When I say legitimate, it means it’s not just a shell of a car or a lookalike. It has a history; it has seen action on the track. Not only has Jeff built POET, the world’s largest producer of biofuels, along with founding Growth Energy, the largest and most flourishing trade organization; He has also led the
Chassis 490
Jeff Broin & Family Stand with Austin Dillon at the 50th Anniversary of Richard Childress Racing in PHX, Arizona.
Built in 2014; retired in 2018 Short track car (Martinsville, Richmond and Loudon)
effort to showcase ethanol as a superior fuel with clean air benefits, first by partnering with IndyCar in 2007 and then in 2011 with NASCAR introducing E15. NASCAR has now
Driven by Austin Dillon – 4,873 miles
logged over 15 million miles on E15 lowering emissions by 20% and at the same time creating more power. Now NASCAR fans are three times more likely than non-fans to use E15 in their own car. It’s a pretty great accomplishment since their fan-base is around 80 million people.
48
Recorded 2 top 5 finishes and 7 top 20 finishes
The Chassis 490, Fueled with E15, on the NASCAR Race Track.
Engine: ECR 761 THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
49
FARM FRESH
Is the Midwest Actually a Tropical Destination? by Brian Hefty No, the Midwestern United States is not the new go-to spot
have been as humid as Miami, Florida, especially when it
for vacationers in the middle of winter, but when you think
counts most, in the middle of the crop season, June-August.
“tropical,” I assume you think hot and humid. The Midwest has half of that…humidity.
Here’s why I bring this up. Many people still fear drought, and I do, too, but we have only had a handful of droughts in
Here is a chart with humidity percentages from two very
the last 100 years. What ends up saving us, even when we
humid cities. One is Miami, Florida. The other is Baltic,
don’t get much rainfall, is humidity. I can really see that in
South Dakota, located just a few miles from the borders of
South Dakota, because just 150 miles west of us, it is much
Minnesota and Iowa. Can you guess which is which?
less humid. When we get the same rainfall as the farmers to the west on similar soils, we have far more yield due to
2019 Average Humidity Level
the humidity levels.
A
B
The other extremely important thing to know about
January
73
83
considerably less water. When a plant starts to run short on
February
71
84
March
70
84
April
67
79
right balance and amount of plant nutrients in the soil.
May
72
77
2019 was extremely wet in the Midwest, but whether it’s
June
76
69
July
75
81
The other key is to have ample, available nutrients, and
August
76
80
crops more drought-tolerant. All this gives the United States
September
78
85
October
75
77
November
74
83
December
73
89
crops is that if they always have ample nutrients, they use any one nutrient, it will start to draw in more water, even if it doesn’t need the water. It does this in the hopes that more of the nutrient it needs will come in the water. Put simply, you make your crop a water-waster if you don’t have the
a wet or dry year, farmers can raise great crops when humidity levels are as high as they often are in the Midwest. that’s what farmers continue to work on to make their a more consistent and reliable food supply. No, the Midwest will never be known as a tropical destination, but the extremely high humidity through much of the growing season does mean good news in our constant quest for higher yields.
You may be surprised to learn that Baltic, South Dakota, where our farm is located, is column B, and those are the average humidity levels for each month in 2019, according to the SDSU weather station on our farm. Column A is the average humidity (in percentage) for Miami, Florida for all years, not specific to 2019. In each of the last few years, we
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
51
MECHANICS CORNER
All Ethanol Production Facilities Receive 2 Free Passes
CARB and CAFÉ: What You Need to Know
Register Today!
Fu e l E t h a n o l Wo r k s h o p .c o m
Network with PRODUCERS Grow Your BUSINESS
Automotive advice from The Under the Hood radio show Two of our most-asked questions on Under The Hood are
Powertrain design: This is a big one. Transmissions have
about fuel economy and emissions. As the years have gone
gone from two speeds to three, four and now to eight or
by, fuel economy has gone up and tailpipe emissions have
more in order to multiply torque and efficiency. Engines
gone down, and there’s a reason for it. Let’s look at two of
have gone from simple two-valve engines to overhead cam
the main controlling factors that will help explain why.
multivalve works of art with direct injection and highly
CARB and CAFE are the two acronyms you need to know.
advanced fuel trim and timing systems that can draw every
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is the “clean
bit of power out of the fuel they are delivered.
air division” of the California government. It is a department within the California Environmental Protection Agency. One of the CARB goals is compliance with air pollution rules and regulations defining vehicle emissions standards. California is the only state to issue emissions standards under the Clean Air Act. Other states can choose to follow along or set their own standards. However, all states must meet the federal rules. California has a cleaner, stricter standard. All U.S. cars are either Federal or California Emission certified. You will often see California emissions certified cars sold outside of California. The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards are U.S. Regulations enacted by Congress in 1975, after the Oil Embargo of 1973 to help improve the average miles per gallon (MPG) of light trucks and cars sold in the U.S. There are pages of documents explaining in detail the entire function of both entities, but this gives you a general idea. Both agencies combine to give us rules which make manufacturers produce cleaner, more efficient vehicles. So, as you know, we are not politicians on Under The Hood and don’t care to be. We are, however, mechanics and have been for over 30 years so politics aside we will try to give you the lowdown on what makes fuel economy
36th
and emissions from the tailpipe change from our years of
ANNUAL
hands-on shop time.
JUNE 15 - 17 2020 MINNEAPOLIS
With all this advancement there is still a drawback. The fuel. Each year CARB and CAFE want manufacturers to have cleaner, more efficient vehicles, but the bar can only go so high with what is being put in the tank. Engines need more octane as the power goes up to be efficient, and the fuel must be as clean as possible to lower emissions. An engine can run much higher compression which equals more efficiency and power when it has higher octane. We have used ethanol in our own engines both on the street and ones built for performance and when used in higher blends we get the octane to give us more efficiency and a cleaner tailpipe. We are often asked what the future of cars may be if they must be cleaner and more efficient and we just don’t know for sure, but we can say that ethanol is the best choice we see right now. That is due to its clean-burning nature, its octane rating and price. As people that have built many engines, we know that if the manufacturers had higher octane available all the time, they could produce some amazingly clean and efficient vehicles without having the cost of research and development into other alternatives. So, what will the future look like? Time will tell, but we like fast powerful cars with that good old Detroit sound coming from under the hood and that starts with the fuel in the tank. Take care, and we’ll see you Under The Hood!
Weight: a big factor in both fuel economy and emissions. A heavy vehicle needs more fuel to propel it down the
The Under The Hood radio show is America’s Favorite
road and burning more fuel means more emissions out
Car-talk show heard on over 230 stations and podcast.
the tailpipe and yes, less MPG. Manufacturers have been
The Motor Medics, Russ Chris and
working hard for decades to reduce the weight of vehicles
Shannon are three great friends
using composites and alloys and even reducing the size of
having fun and offering a wide
wiring to lighten the load. It all adds up one piece at a time.
range of automotive advice without the aid of in-studio computers or reference guides.
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
53
PRIME THE PUMP
PRIME THE PUMP
In Iowa, two things are certain:
the nation’s largest E15 retailer.
different markets. Casey’s now uses
People like filling their bellies with
“We started moving pretty quickly
the name “Unleaded 88” at the pump
Casey’s pizza, and they like filling
to getting higher blends of ethanol to
instead of the trade name E15.
their tanks with ethanol.
our stores in 2018,” Doddridge said.
“Customers don’t want to read
That’s not a surprise to Nathanial
“Now we’ve really added it to our
marketing materials. They just want
Doddridge, Director of Fuels for
standard product slate.”
to fill up their tanks and move on,”
Ankeny, Iowa-based Casey’s General
But
Stores.
contributes
Nevermind that the pizza is from
customers
a gas station, Doddridge said. Most
Midwest about the benefits of E15. In
better than ever.”
Iowans would tell you that Casey’s, the
states like Arkansas, Oklahoma and
Those
now,
Prime to
in
the
educating areas
Pump
Doddridge said. “Since making the
Casey’s
branding change to Unleaded 88 last
outside
the
fifth-largest pizza chain in the United States, has some of the best around. And the ethanol? Well, corn is king in Iowa, and the state leads the nation in ethanol production. “Here
in
the
Midwest,
every
town we’re in is surrounded by agriculture,” Doddridge said. “This is an opportunity for us to bring a new product to our customers that’s good for their vehicles, but also a way to give the value right back to the farmers and ethanol producers in our communities.”
Casey’s rapidly expands its E15 offerings Iowa-based company wants to be the nation’s largest E15 retailer by Janna Farley
54
VITALBYPOET.COM
But outside of the Corn Belt, people aren’t
as
familiar
with
ethanol,
Doddridge said. That’s where Prime the Pump comes into play. Originally, Prime the Pump played
year, our adoption rates have been adoption
rates
should
increase even more now that the
The ethanol industry is now fully poised for domestic growth as this restriction had been the one factor keeping thousands of retailers from adding E15 to their fuel offerings.
summertime restrictions on E15 have been lifted, said Kelly Manning, Vice President of Development for Growth Energy. “We will now have easier and more access to this fuel that saves us money at the pump, has more octane so our engines run better and significantly reduces tailpipe emissions compared to regular gasoline,” Manning said. “E15 will now replace E10 as the most popular fuel choice at the pump. Once this is fully realized, our industry will recognize around 7 billion gallons of new annual demand.” The continued growth of E15 is good for producers, of course, “The ethanol industry is now fully
an instrumental role for Casey’s in
poised for domestic growth as this
the decision to start selling E15 in the
restriction had been the one factor
summer of 2017. The initiative targets
keeping thousands of retailers from
high-volume,
high-profile
retailers
adding E15 to their fuel offerings,”
to assist with initial investments in
Ohio, for example, Casey’s was one
Manning said.
infrastructure to support E15. The
of the first retailers to offer E15 to its
But it’s even better for consumers
biofuels industry has invested nearly
customers, Doddridge said.
— especially as Casey’s continues
$70 million in this initiative.
“When people pull up to the gas
to expand its E15 offerings in new
For Casey’s, the partnership meant
pump and see something different,
markets as well as retrofit its legacy
the chain was able to expand its
their natural inclination is to not
stores with the product.
E15 offerings faster than originally
touch it,” Doddridge said. “We have to
“Our customers like the value,”
anticipated. In August of 2017, there
educate those customers and tell them
Doddridge says. “They can get a
were only four Casey’s locations that
why it’s OK to put E15 in their cars.”
premium product at a lower price. It’s
sold E15. Today, they’re up to more
Prime the Pump has been working
an easy selling point for us. E15 can be
than 220 locations. By the end of
with retailers like Casey’s on how to
a market leader for Casey’s.”
2020, Casey’s will break the 300-store
consistently brand E15 across the
threshold. The goal is for Casey’s to be
industry, testing different names in
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
55
OUT OF LEFT FIELD
DOWN
The Power of Coffee
1. Cassini of fashion 2. Explosive liquid 3. Trouble 4. Bureau division 5. Milne’s Winnie
by Scott Johnson, Data Systems Administrator, POET
6. White-tailed eagle 7. Put ___ to (finish)
Some people wake in the morning immediately ready to
shaped like cats. We’re exhibiting an embarrassment of
confront any obstacle they encounter. They spring out of
vitality, blessed by the magical influence of coffee.
bed, take a deep breath and grin as if they can foretell the
The average American spends about $1,100 per year on
day is going to be special. They seemingly siphon energy
coffee. You’re probably thinking, no fair - did they have
and positive vibes from the morning sun itself, regardless if
coupons or something? It seems like a reasonable price
the sun is shining bright or hidden from view from gloomy
to pay for the energy to do things. Coffee is accessible to
12. Groaner
cloud cover. If there is anything I’ve learned from these
everyone - even the health-conscious. In its natural state,
13. Benchmark, abbr.
fascinating individuals it’s that...they simply cannot be
our morning hug in a mug has only one calorie per serving.
19. Surface measure
trusted. Something’s not right. Where did that enthusiasm
Take that, rice cake! Even smelling bacon costs 7 calories.
21. 3 in a tbs.
come from? For the rest of us, nothing can be accomplished
No need to fact-check that. I’m pretty sure it’s accurate.
24. Laundry convenience
without the proper daily instigator:
Of course, coffee was available well before America
25. Start of a toast
Coffee.
adopted it as its favorite beverage. Legend has it that
26. Tennis great Agassi
If you had any form of success yesterday, it was likely
coffee was discovered by an Ethiopian goat herder in the
driven by coffee. Surgeons, computer programmers,
ninth century. He noticed his herd nibbling berries from
28. Soccer fan in the family
engineers, morning talk show hosts -- all are sufficiently
an unfamiliar plant, then started acting strange and extra-
fueled with a joltin’ cup of joe before starting their day.
energized. (Although, how can one really tell if your goats
Business leaders closing billion-dollar deals wouldn’t have
are acting weird? They always seem a bit bizarre -- crawling
so much as tied their shoes without the power of coffee.
all over, eating everything in sight, doing yoga, etc.). The
In fact, most dress shoes don’t even have laces because
herder collaborated with a local monk who made a liquid
people head to work before the caffeine kicks in (and work
8. “As the World Turns” actress 9. English or French 10. Advice dispenser 11. Proxy, e.g. (abbr.)
29. Former Swedish car model 31. Businesses, abbr. 43. Kiddie transport, briefly
32. Job for an emcee
44. Heat stats
33. Apple pie maker’s appliance
1. Like a line, in math
45. Vane direction
34. Susan Lucci character Kane
concoction from the suspicious berries. They consumed the
5. Type of bog or moss
46. Log
36. Blasting stick, abbr.
typically requires shoes).
drink then stayed up all night studying for their Psychology
9. Northern Scandinavians
48. School orgs.
37. Atlantic food fish
Have you ever tried to push open a door that’s supposed
101 semester final and were still able to drive their kids to
14. 1970 Queen song
51. Words between man
40. Ref’s decision
to be pulled? Even though there is a sign in bold letters
soccer practice the next morning.
15. TV’s “Deal ___ Deal”
41. Legacy
16. On the topic of
52. Othello character
42. V-J Day pres. 47. Creator of Charlie and Matilda
instructing you to “PULL”? Then when you do finally pull in
Without coffee, productivity wanes. The saddest sound
ACROSS
frustration, the door bangs against your outstretched foot,
in the world is the harsh, dry gasp of an empty pump-
17. Jazz singer James
55. Engagement gift
slams shut again and causes you to say words that aren’t
action coffee carafe. Whenever that sound is heard, the
18. Solo performer
58. POET facility that drives long-
49. French Dadaist
allowed on network television? Of course you have. But
Dow Jones Industrial Average loses a point. Yes, there are
20. Country’s largest biofuels
term economic development
50. Food for livestock
has this common scenario ever occurred after adequately
the baffling few who can function at acceptable levels of competency without coffee. I’m not sure how...or why
trade association that
through its community and
caffeinating for the day? Of course not. The sign should
53. Croc’s cousin
read, “DRINK COFFEE, THEN ATTEMPT TO OPEN DOOR.”
they do it. I’m not suggesting those folks are WEIRD for
recently awarded Jeff Broin,
region
54. In a state of readiness
American productivity has been fueled by Java since The
not drinking coffee. (Although, I do believe they are more
Founder and CEO of POET,
62. Michelin offering
56. Bedevil
Boston Tea Party. When tea was king, our floundering nation
likely to own a unicycle than the rest of humanity.) But
the American Biofuel
65. Ice cream thickener
57. No-see-ums
didn’t have enough energy to produce or create anything
imagine what that anomalous minority would be capable
Visionary Award
66. Taking advantage of
58. Deutsche article
useful whatsoever. We hadn’t even invented the cracker
of properly caffeinated! There are a myriad of unresolved
22. Washington’s bills
67. Fall times, abbr.
59. Meal scraps
yet (1792). But after this historic event, consuming coffee
problems waiting to be conquered - world hunger... climate
23. “Mon ___!”
68. Fence entryway
60. “__ we forget . . .”
(instead of tea) was considered a patriotic gesture. This
change... figuring out how the heck you’re supposed to de-
24. Half a Latin dance
69. Mid-afternoon time
61. Three in a casino
new caffeine catalyst propelled an onslaught of national
seed a pomegranate. The enlightened know that coffee is
27. Tach readings
70. Break in the music
62. Same old, same old
productivity. Shortly thereafter, our freshly stimulated
the energizing force necessary to solve the world’s complex
30. German cathedral city
71. DIY handicrafts site
63. Large spreading tree
minds conceived the threshing machine, telegraph and
problems. Coffee is good. Coffee is life. We wouldn’t trade
32. Freezing liquid
cotton gin. Still buzzed today, we’ve moved on to curved
our coffee for all the tea in China. We’d probably just dump
35. Muesli ingredients
TVs, robot vacuums and Bluetooth waterproof speakers
it in the harbor anyway.
38. Squash or pumpkin
FOR ANSWERS, VISIT
39. Location of one of POET’s 28
vitalmagazineonline.com/answers
56
and mouse
VITALBYPOET.COM
64. Board member, abbr.
state-of-the-art plants
THE ESSENTIAL PERSPECTIVE
57
4615 N. Lewis Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57104
imagination
is an endless resource
POET.COM
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.