Overview

Dairy Forum 2012 will take a big picture look at the geopolitics of food. Some of the most influential thought leaders in the field will bring a fresh perspective to the changes to food supply and demand that are happening around the world. As a keynote speaker, Dan Glickman, former agriculture secretary and co-chair of AGree, will provide an overview of the new geopolitics of food and agriculture. 

The Forum program will also focus on dairy’s role in the international environment. Experts from a cross-section of disciplines will lead lively discussions on trade and nutrition policy in a global marketplace, the role of technology in meeting the demand for food, and the impact of energy and water on agriculture and food production. Anil Gupta and Haiyan Wang, global strategists and co-authors of "Getting China and India Right," will provide insights on how to do business in these two diverse and dynamic markets.

Other sessions will discuss dairy policy, the 2012 Farm Bill and the upcoming general election. Stuart Rothenberg, editor and publisher of The Rothenberg Political Report and a columnist with Roll Call, will share his analysis of the upcoming elections.

Join your colleagues at IDFA's Dairy Forum 2012 in January to discuss the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead.

 

Premier Sponsors
     

 

Preliminary Agenda

Saturday, January 14, 2012

2:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Registration

Sunday, January 15, 2012

8:00 a.m. - Noon	Morning Golf Tournament *
Noon - 3:00 p.m.	Tennis Tournament * Tournament Sponsored By:
Noon - 4:00 p.m.	Afternoon Golf Tournament *
Noon - 8:30 p.m.	Registration
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.	IDFA Board of Directors Meeting
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.	Chairman's Lecture Intersection of the Beverage and Dairy Worlds As beverage companies expand their nutritional offerings, some are looking at the health benefits of milk and dairy products. Sam Lteif, general manager of the Global Nutritional Group at PepsiCo., will discuss how a global food and beverage company sizes up the role of dairy in the world marketplace. Presiding: Mike Nosewicz, Vice President, Dairy Group-East, Manufacturing, The Kroger Co., and IDFA Chairman Speaker: Sam Lteif, General Manager, Global Nutrition Group, PepsiCo, Inc.
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.	Welcome Reception Sponsored By:

Monday, January 16, 2012

7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.	Registration
8:00 - 9:15 a.m.	Keynote Breakfast The New GeoPolitics of Food In a global marketplace, the new geopolitics of food and agriculture require efforts to enhance access to nutritious foods for a growing world population. Former U.S. Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman will share insights on a new initiative that aims to transform U.S. food and agriculture policy to meet this challenge. Watch a video preview of the session. Introduction: Michael Zacka, Vice President, President and Chief Executive Officer, Tetra Pak Inc. Speaker: Dan Glickman, Co-chair of AGree and Former Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture
9:30 - 10:15 a.m.	General Session What in the World Is Driving Global Food Demand and Where Will Production Come From? Growing populations with greater incomes are creating new patterns of food demand. At the same time, traditional agricultural patterns are being disrupted. What are the implications for agricultural-commodity and food-trade patterns when these two forces collide? Bob Thompson, Ph.D., a renowned international economist, will outline the key issues in global supply and demand. Introduction: Mike McCarty, Global Director, Food Industry and Consumer Affairs, Elanco Speaker: Bob Thompson, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University of Illinois
10:15 - 10:45 a.m.	Coffee Break
10:45 a.m. - Noon	General Session Dairy’s Role in Meeting the Global Need for Food Food consumption projections show that many low-income countries will outstrip their production capacity. A panel of dairy industry leaders will discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the global dairy industry. Moderator: Bob Thompson, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University of Illinois Panel: Rudy Dieperink, President and Chief Executive Officer, Americas, FrieslandCampina Domo John Jeter, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hilmar Cheese Company, Inc. Chris Kenneally, Global Portfolio Marketing Director, Tetra Pak Inc.
Noon - 1:30 p.m.	Luncheon Session Getting China and India Right Asia is different, diverse and dynamic. It offers vast new opportunities but also serious competitive challenges. As the U.S. dairy industry looks at the potential to expand its exports to meet consumer demands in these countries, attendees will hear from two experts with a deep, on-the-ground understanding of doing business in global economies. Introduction: Roy Robinson, Vice President, Business Development, Portola Packaging, Inc. Presiding: George Zoghbi, President, Cheese and Dairy, Kraft Foods N.A., Inc. Speaker: Anil Gupta and Haiyan Wang, Experts on Business Strategy, Globalization and Emerging Markets
1:30– 2:20 p.m.	Premier Sponsor Session Ingredients for Success: Why Dairy Ingredient Strategies Are Becoming So Important to the U.S. Industry by Rabobank
2:30 - 3:20 p.m.	Premier Sponsor Session Innovation in Dairy: Global Learnings and Trends by Tetra Pak Inc.
3:30 - 4:20 p.m.	Premier Sponsor Session What Are the Right Strategies for Sustainable Packaging? by Portola Packaging, Inc.
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.	International Trade Meeting (invitation only)
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.	PAC Steering Committee Meeting (invitation only)
4:30 - 5:20 p.m.	Premier Sponsor Session Global Perspective: Connecting the Farm to Consumer by Elanco
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.	Editors’ Reception (invitation only)
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.	PAC Reception (invitation only)

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.	Registration
7:30 - 8:45 a.m.	Awards Breakfast Celebrating Excellence Presentation The Celebrating Excellence breakfast will recognize the contributions of outstanding dairy leaders. The Soaring Eagle Awards, the National Cheese Institute Laureate Award, the Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award and the Dairy Foods Processor of the Year Award will be presented. Sponsored by: Presiding: Mike Reidy, Senior Vice President, Supply Chain and Corporate Affairs, Leprino Foods Company, and Vice Chair, National Cheese Institute
8:30 a.m. - Noon	The Living Desert Tour *
9:00 - 10:15 a.m.	General Session Dairy Market Outlook Our dairy markets are continuously bombarded by new market information and price volatility in other commodities, namely feed and energy markets. In addition to having a direct impact on expectations about dairy input costs across the supply chain, the uncertainty in those markets also affects dairy demand expectations. What do the next five years look like for the dairy industry? Learn more about key drivers for the future of the U.S. dairy industry. Introduction: Emmanuel Durand, Global Head, Mergers and Acquisitions, Rabobank Moderator: Sue Taylor, Vice President, Dairy Policy and Procurement, Leprino Foods Company Speaker: Tim Hunt, Global Dairy Strategist, Rabobank Phil Plourd, President, Blimling and Associates, Inc.
10:15 - 10:45 a.m.	Coffee Break
10:45 a.m. - Noon	Concurrent Sessions Trade Policy and the Growing Export Market The United States has the fundamentals to become a principal dairy exporter to the world. This would provide jobs at home and a growing industry. A panel of trade experts will discuss the current state-of-play of international trade negotiations, including the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and address complex regulatory issues, such as geographic indications, that affect dairy trade. Moderator: John Kelly, Manager, International Affairs, International Dairy Foods Association Principal Speaker: Craig Thorn, Partner, DTB Associates Panel: Fiona Hutchinson, Vice President, Government Relations and Trade, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited Ted Jacoby III, Vice President of Trading Operations, T.C. Jacoby & Company, Inc. Ken Roberts, Director, International Business Relations, Kraft Foods, Inc. Water Usage and Policy in Food Production Water shortages and conservation are increasingly important factors for dairy farmers and manufacturers, as well as local and federal policy-makers. What impact is water conservation having on dairy production and manufacturing? What affect will it have on agriculture and environmental policy? A panel of world-class experts will discuss the evolving criticality of water and its diminishing supply to the dairy industry and food production. Moderator: Clay Detlefsen, Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, IDFA Principal Speaker: Marty Matlock Ph.D., Professor, Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department, University of Arkansas Panel: Dale Bunton, Senior Director, Engineering, Refrigeration and Utility Infrastructure, Dean Foods Company John Fiscalini, Managing Partner, Fiscalini Farms & Cheese Co. Ying Wang, Ph.D., Director, Sustainability Research, Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy Global Food-Safety Forecast How will rapidly changing technology, competing regulatory demands and recent foodborne illness outbreaks affect business models? How will our new domestic food-safety requirements align with other international regulatory efforts? Food industry insiders who see all the moving parts will offer their predictions for what’s ahead. Moderator: Gale Prince, President and Founder, SAGE Food Safety Consultants, LLC Principal Speaker: Mike Page, Vice President, Global Quality and Regulatory, Starbucks Panel: Jorge Hernandez, Senior Vice President, Food Safety and Quality, U.S. Foodservice USA John Sheehan, Director, Plant and Dairy Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Noon - 1:30 p.m.	Luncheon Session A GPS Guide to Our Political Future During a tumultuous general election year, it can be difficult to see where we're headed as a nation. Get a look at the political forces at work from a journalist whose analysis of American elections and their potential ramifications can help us navigate this often confusing landscape. Presiding: Brian Perry, Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman, Perry’s Ice Cream Company, Inc., and Chairman, International Ice Cream Association Speaker: Stuart Rothenberg, Editor and Publisher of The Rothenberg Report and Columnist for Roll Call
12:30 - 4:30 p.m.	Aerial Tram Tour *
2:00 - 3:30 p.m.	Concurrent Sessions Global Nutrition Policy New legislation and rules are being enacted around the world in an effort to curb the continuing rise in obesity and related diseases. Some countries are creating fat taxes; others are labeling foods with stoplights or banning the advertising of foods high in fat, sugar and salt. Global manufacturers will discuss how these policies are influencing the development of new dairy products and the way dairy companies market their products. Moderator: Cary Frye, Vice President, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs, IDFA Principal Speaker: Donald Moore, Executive Director, Global Dairy Platform Panel: Susie Moller Hjorth, President and Chief Executive Officer, Arla Foods, Inc. USA Jerry O’Dea, President and Chief Executive Officer, Glanbia Nutritionals – Ingredient Technologies Jay Waldvogel, Senior Vice President, Strategy and International Development, Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. Technology and Our Food Supply Can the global dairy industry balance consumer acceptance of new technology with the need to provide abundant, affordable foods that use fewer resources? This challenge must be addressed for the world to expand its food supply in an environmentally sustainable way. The panel will discuss consumer trends, marketplace differentiation, food costs and supply chain challenges associated with the technologies needed to grow the dairy industry here and abroad. Moderator: Bob Boynton, Adjunct Professor, Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, and Former Senior Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Leprino Foods Company (retired) Principal Speaker: Jeff Simmons, President, Elanco Panel: Mitch Davis, Executive Vice President, Research and Development, Technology and Milk Production, Davisco Foods International, Inc. Bill Lesher, Executive Director and Board Chairman, Global Harvest Initiative
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.	International Dairy Show Meeting (invitation only)
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.	CEO Reception (invitation only)
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.	Closing Reception
7:30 - Midnight	After-Hours Hospitality Sponsored by:

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

8:00 - 8:45 a.m.	Coffee with IDFA - A Conversation with IDFA Leaders Join IDFA’s leaders for a discussion of current U.S. activities and actions surrounding the global issues of food and agriculture, including top recommendations on the policy direction needed for the industry to grow and prosper in a worldwide marketplace. Presiding: Jon Davis, Chief Executive Officer, Le Sueur Cheese Co., Inc., Davisco Foods International, Inc., and Chairman, National Cheese Institute Speakers: Mike Nosewicz, Vice President, Dairy East, The Kroger Co., and Chairman, IDFA Connie Tipton, President and Chief Executive Officer, IDFA
9:00 - 10:30 a.m.	General Session The 112th Congress and the Farm Bill The 112th Session of Congress, with its Republican House of Representatives and Democratic Senate, has so far proven to be one of the most divisive and unproductive on record. Both parties and the president are positioning and hoping that the next election will break the gridlock. Can a new farm bill emerge from this unforgiving legislative environment? A panel of legislative insiders will discuss what we can expect and the implications for the dairy industry. Moderator: Jerry Slominski, Senior Vice President, Legislative Affairs and Economic Policy, IDFA Speakers: Ed Barron, Russell Group; Former Chief of Staff, U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee; Office of General Counsel, USDA; Deputy Chief of Staff, Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works; and Deputy Chief Counsel, Senate Judiciary Committee Kelly Rucker Bingel, Partner, Mehlman Vogel Castagnetti Inc.; Former Chief of Staff to Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) Bill O’Conner, Senior Agriculture Policy Advisor, McLeod, Watkinson and Miller; Former Chief of Staff, House Agriculture Committee; and Former Chief of Staff to Agriculture Secretary Edward Madigan Andrew Novakovic, Chairman, Dairy Industry Advisory Committee, and E.V. Baker Professor of Agricultural Economics, Cornell University
10:30 a.m.	Adjourn

* separate fee required

Conference Notepads Sponsored By:

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Hotel and Local Information

Dairy Forum 2012 will be held at the La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta, Calif. With grace and charm, the storied La Quinta Resort & Club has reigned over the Coachella Valley as the desert's queen of Greater Palm Springs hotels. Since its opening, this grand destination, nestled in the quiet of the Santa Rosa Mountains of Southern California, has been the favorite retreat of Hollywood legends like Greta Garbo, Clark Gable and Frank Capra, as well as financial powerhouses such as Cornelius Vanderbilt IV and William H. Crocker.

Today, among the guests of this extraordinary Greater Palm Springs hotel are a new generation of celebrities, including Hollywood stars, athletes and CEOs, whose first names alone are enough to identify them. The resort has been recognized by prominent travel, lifestyle, golf and tennis publications as one of the top destination resorts in the world.

Over the years, the stunning Palm Springs historic hotel has grown from its original 20 casitas served by a lobby and a dining room to an expansive resort comprising 796 casitas, suites and villas, vacation home rentals, seven restaurants, nine championship golf courses, an award-winning spa, 23 tennis courts, 41 sparkling pools and 53 hot spas, a children´s program and more. Nevertheless, La Quinta Resort has maintained its commitment to the privacy and comfort of its guests, a legacy of graciousness given to the resort by its original owner, Walter H. Morgan.

Check-in time at La Quinta Resort & Club is 4:00 p.m.

Rooms  are currently sold out at La Quinta Resort & Club. Rooms are available at the Embassy Suites La Quinta Hotel & Spa (1.5 miles away ). The Embassy Suites' special room rate for Dairy Forum 2012 attendees is $179 per night. To make reservations, call the hotel directly at (888) 386-1126 and refer to IDFA Dairy Forum 2012. Rooms will be available at this rate until December 31, 2011, or when the room block is filled, whichever comes first.

For more information about the Embassy Suites La Quinta Hotel & Spa, visit the hotel website here. For additional details, Crosson at pcrosson@idfa.org.

Check-in time at the Embassy Suites La Quinta Hotel & Spa is 4:00 p.m.

NOTE: Shuttle service between the two resorts will be provided according to the following schedule:

Sunday, January 15
7:00 a.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
11:00 a.m.            Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
1:00 p.m.              Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites
5:00 p.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
9:00 p.m.              Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites

Monday, January 16
7:00 a.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
2:00 p.m.              Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites
5:30 p.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
8:00 p.m.              Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites

Tuesday, January 17
7:00 a.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
4:00 p.m.              Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites
6:00 p.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
8:00 p.m.              Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites

Wednesday, January 18
7:30 a.m.              Departs from Embassy Suites to La Quinta Resort & Club
11:00 a.m.            Departs La Quinta Resort & Club to Embassy Suites

NOTE: Only registered Dairy Forum attendees will receive the special group rate.

La Quinta Resort & Club Address:	Embassy Suites La Quinta Hotel & Spa Address:
49-499 Eisenhower Drive La Quinta, California 92253 (760) 564-4111 website	50-777 Santa Rosa Plaza La Quinta, California 92253 1-888-386-1126 website

Hotel Key Cards Sponsored By:

Guestroom Amenity Sponsored By:

 

Dining

Twenty6
Focusing on the American Classics, a step into Twenty6 is like a step back in time. Reminiscent of an American Classic Grill, this Palm Springs restaurant upholds its prestige and distinction by serving "real" food, such as a variety of fresh takes on Eggs Benedict for breakfast, BLTs and Hand Formed Burgers for lunch and Sole Almandine and Filet Oscar for dinner, using the best and freshest product in season. Whether dining for business, romance or with family, Twenty6 provides a memorable experience for all.

Hours: Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

 

Adobe Grill
Named after the 100,000 adobe clay bricks that were used to build the original La Quinta Hotel in 1926. This charming Palm Springs Mexican restaurant features authentic regional Mexican cuisine passionately prepared in a colorful display, making every meal a fiesta. Here you will enjoy table side prepared guacamole with local organic avocados, authentic moles, fresh vegetable salsas and house made tortillas. Offering over 50 select tequilas and featuring all natural organic signature margaritas. Dine inside or on the lofty patio overlooking the magnificent Santa Rosa Mountains and the Plaza. Enjoy live music Friday and Saturday.

Hours: Open for dinner, 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Ernie's
Ernie's Bar & Grill, in the Tournament Clubhouse at PGA WEST, has quickly become the coolest new Palm Springs bar for sports fans. Choose from a distinct selection of beers on tap, wine, and a menu featuring local natural ingredients. Follow your team on one of the many high-definition TVs featuring the best in DirecTV sports programming. Enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace, featuring cozy seating around two fire pits and fabulous views of the TPC Stadium and Nicklaus Tournament courses.

Hours: Open for lunch, 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and dinner, 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Open Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Location: Stadium Nicholas Golf Course

Morgan's in the Desert
When Walter H. Morgan invited the Hollywood elite out to the desert to escape Tinseltown on the Christmas of 1926, they shed the burden of celebrity, and shared the simplicity and health benefits of good food, good drink, and good friends. The retreat was rare, but the connection was real and lasting. As Frank Capra, who returned many times to write his most famous film classics, stated, "It was the kind of place everyone was looking for; it is a wonderful green oasis in the middle of the desert, and it is absolutely private." The Coachella Valley flourished with irrigation, golf soon followed, and all the while, Mari Dressler, Greta Garbo, Ginger Rogers, Bette Davis, Clark Gable, Robert Montgomery, Errol Flynn and Joan Crawford enjoyed the "original hideaway" and the relaxed times around the rustic but well-set table.

Today, the tradition continues at Morgan's in the desert, with simple culinary sophistication, an elegantly unpretentious hacienda inspired dining room, and guests who come from miles away to share special moments with their friends and families.

Hours: Open for dinner, 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

 

Recreation

• Five championship golf courses
• Twenty-three Tennis Courts
• Forty-One Pools
• Full-service Spa
• Fitness Classes including: Yoga, Pilates, and Meditation
• Children's Playground

 

Area Attractions

• The Plaza at La Quinta Resort & Club
• La Quinta Community Park
• La Quinta Arts Foundation
• Civic Center Campus
• Coachella Valley History Museum
• La Quinta Playhouse
• La Quinta Museum
• Mariachi Serenata Mexicana
• Red Jeep Desert Adventures
• Oasis Date Gardens
• Soak City Waterpark
• Moorten Botanical Gardens
• El Paseo Shopping Avenue
• Chuckwalla Valley Raceway
• Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
• Cabot's Pueblo Museum
• Palm Springs Air Museum
• Indian Canyons
• Palm Springs Walk of Stars
• Joshua Tree National Park

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Travel and Transportation

 

Getting to La Quinta

Getting There by Air

La Quinta is served by the Palm Springs International Airport. We are pleased to announce discounts with American, United, Delta Airlines for Dairy Forum 2012. The following promotion is available:

American Airlines
IDFA has partnered with American Airlines to provide our attendees  a 5% discount for Dairy Forum 2012 meeting in La Quinta. The valid travel dates for this discount are January 12 - 21, 2012. You can easily access American’s fares and apply this discount by going to www.aa.com to book your flight. Place the below Promotion Code  in the promotion code box and your discount will be calculated automatically. This special discount is valid off any applicable published fares listed for American Airlines, American Eagle, and American Connection. International originating guests will need to contact your local reservation number and refer to the Promotion Code.

You may also call 1-800-433-1790 to book your flights, please refer to the Authorization Number below when you call. Please note there is a reservation service charge for all tickets issued by phone. Please use our preferred partner, American Airlines when you can because of the benefits provided to you as a traveler and to our organization for extended partner value.

Promotion Code: 8712BN

Delta
Delta is pleased to offer discounted airfares. Use WorldFile/Ticket Designator NM8D7 to purchase your tickets and discounts from 2 to 7 percent will be applied. Please call (800) 328-1111 for reservations.

United/Continental Airlines
United/Continental Airlines offer discounts off published fares of 2 to 10 percent.  Valid travel dates are January 10 - 22, 2012. Book your reservations online at www.united.com for maximum savings and receive an additional 3 percent discount off the published fares. Click on www.united.com, choose your flight times and access your meeting discounts by inserting ZKZC496527 in the offer code box. Or you may call your travel professional or United Meetings at (800) 468-7022 ($25 service fee). Refer to Z Code ZKZC and Agreement Code 496527.   This information applies to both United and Continental Airlines reservations.

Getting to the La Quinta Resort & Club

Transportation from Palm Springs International Airport (19.4 miles):
Head northwest on Kirk Douglas Way/Turn right toward El Cielo Rd./Turn left onto El Cielo Rd./Turn right onto Escoba Dr./Turn left onto California 111 Business S.E. Palm Canyon Dr./ Continue to follow E Palm Canyon Dr./Continue onto CA-111 S./Turn right onto Washington St./Turn right onto Eisenhower Dr.

Approximate Cab Fare: $70.00 - $75.00
At Your Service Shuttle (1-888-700-7888): $46

Transportation from Ontario International Airport (90.2 miles):
Head east on Terminal Way/Take the 2nd left toward Terminal Way/Turn left onto Terminal Way/Slight right to stay on Terminal Waym/Continue onto Archibald Ave/Take the ramp onto I-10 E/Take exit 137 for Washington St/Turn right onto Washington St/Turn right onto Eisenhower Dr/Turn left at Calle Sinaloa.

At Your Service Shuttle (1-888-700-7888): $80

Transportation from John Wayne Airport (118 miles):

Head southwest on JWA Roadway/Slight left toward N Airport Way/Slight right onto N Airport Way/Continue onto Michelson Dr/Turn left onto Von Karman Ave/Turn right onto Main St/Turn left onto Jamboree Rd/Continue straight to stay on Jamboree Rd/Continue onto CA-261 N/Toll Rd 261(Partial toll road)/Merge onto CA-241 N (Toll road)/ Take exit 39A to merge onto CA-91 E toward Riverside (Partial toll road)/Take exit 65B for CA-60 E/I-215 S toward San Diego/Indio/Merge onto CA-60 E/Merge onto I-215 S/Slight left onto CA-60 E/Moreno Valley Fwy/Take the exit on the left onto I-10 E/ Take exit 137 for Washington St/Turn right onto Washington St/Turn right onto Eisenhower Dr/Turn left at Calle Sinaloa/Eisenhower Dr

At Your Service Shuttle (1-888-700-7888): $120

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Optional Activities

The Optional Activities are open to all attendees, spouses, family members, and guests* accompanying registrants of Dairy Forum 2012.

The spouse/guest activities are a social program and are not intended for individuals who wish to fully participate in the sessions.

Badges may be picked up with the registered attendee's registration badge. Name badges must be worn for admission to all functions.

*A "guest" is a spouse, significant other, friend or an adult child (18 or older). A co-worker or an associate within the industry may not use the guest registration category. Spouse/Guests are complimentary with a paid attendee.

Morning Golf Tournament

Sunday, January 15, 2012 - SOLD OUT

Mountain Course: 8:00 a.m. shotgun start
Price: $190 per person

Famous for its unique design and stunning visuals, this challenging layout is ranked among Golf Magazine's "Top 100 Courses You Can Play".

Includes:

• Green Fees
• Boxed Breakfast
• Cart fees
• Practice Balls
• Service Fees

*The morning golf tournament has sold out. A wait list will be started. If you would like to be added to the wait list, please contact Patrick Crosson at pcrosson@idfa.org.

Golf Hole #7 Sponsored By:

Afternoon Golf Tournament
Sunday, January 15, 2012

Dunes Course: Noon shotgun start
Price: $180 per person

This Pete Dye-designed course provides a relaxing round of golf surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

Includes:

• Green Fees
• Boxed Lunch
• Cart fees
• Practice Balls
• Service Fees

 

Golf Hole #7 Sponsored By:

Tennis Tournament
Sunday, January 15, 2012

Noon - 3:00 p.m.

La Quinta Resort & Club is also a championship tennis facility. The staff of tennis professionals are ready to instruct and play at your convenience on 23 courts (5 Har Tru and 18 hard courts).

Round Robin play will determine the top seed. Water and sodas will be provided throughout the competition. Appropriate tennis attire and shoes are required; no track shoes, cross-trainers or running shoes will be permitted.

Price: $80 per person - Includes Boxed Lunch

 

 

Spouse Activities

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

THE LIVING DESERT TOUR

8:30 a.m. - Noon

The Living Desert was established in 1970 by several trustees of the Palm Springs Desert Museum who foresaw the impact that resort development would have on their local desert ecosystem. For almost four decades The Living Desert has been engaged in the important work of preserving, conserving and interpreting the desert and all its varied plant and animal life.

Today guests are treated to a narrated shuttle tour and a Wildlife Wonders Show where guests enjoy some of the many varieties of wildlife found in the deserts of the world. Discover reptiles, birds and mammals and learn about their interesting adaptations. Through this entertaining and informative animal show you will gain a new respect and appreciation for desert wildlife

The surprises of the desert are revealed, illustrating that there is much more to it than dry earth and cacti! The tour concludes on the Smith Patio, where guests are served delicious date shakes.

Cost: $88 per person

Includes:

• Exclusive round-trip transportation via deluxe motor vehicle
• Admission to The Living Desert
• Narrated shuttle tour
• Wildlife Wonders Show
• Date shakes
• Bottled water

AERIAL TRAM TOUR

12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The hot sultry desert valley at an elevation of 2,643 feet is the starting point for a climb to 8,516 feet that transports guests to a cool world of beauty, fun, relaxation and adventure. Guests ride in new state-of-the-art Rotair tramcars that hold up to 80 passengers and revolve slowly from within, providing a spectacular 360° view of the magnificent valley floor and surrounding area. Ascending Mt. San Jacinto, guests marvel at the breathtaking view as they pass through five Micro-clime zones in just 14 minutes, approximating a trip from Mexico's warm Sonoran Desert to the alpine wilderness of Alaska.

Mt. San Jacinto State Park, at the top of the tram, comes alive during the summer and fall with 13,000 acres of hiking trails and picnic areas. In winter, nature creates a snowy playground for locals as well as visitors.

Your ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one to be a long remembered experience.

Cost: $80 per person

Includes:

• Exclusive round-trip transportation via deluxe motor vehicle
• Aerial tram ride admission
• Bottled water

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Sponsorship

For more information on sponsoring the 2012 International Sweetener Colloquium, please contact Paxton Styles, Coordinator - Meetings and Educational Services, at pstyles@idfa.org or 202-220-3532. You may also visit our sponsorship webpage.

Registration Tips

1. When is IDFA's Dairy Forum 2012 being held?
IDFA's Dairy Forum 2012 will be held Sunday, January 15, through Wednesday, January 18, 2012.

2. Why should I attend IDFA's Dairy Forum 2012?
IDFA's annual Dairy Forum has become the premier meeting place for leaders across the U.S. dairy industry, including producers, coops, processors, retailers and suppliers. All segments of the dairy industry come together to discuss the top issues of the coming year and to participate in conversations on key dairy issues. It is also one of the best networking opportunities available to dairy professionals.

3. Who attends the Dairy Forum?
Dairy Forum is the industry's premier annual event. It brings together leaders across the dairy industry including processors, producers, business partners and suppliers, retailers, academics, policy makers, and trade journalists. Whether it's in the sessions, at the social occasions or during golf or tennis, Dairy Forum is the best networking event for dairy industry leaders.

4. Will there be exhibits?
No, there are no exhibits for this event.

5. Which hotel has been reserved? What is the rate?
The Dairy Forum will be held at the La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta, California. IDFA has a special room rate of $270 per night.

6. Can I make my hotel reservations now?
Yes, you can make your reservation directly on the passkey website or call the resort at (760) 564-4111 to reserve your room today. When calling, refer to IDFA's Dairy Forum to receive the special room rate.

7. What is the schedule for the Dairy Forum?
The agenda with program and activities schedule will soon be available online. Please note that the program schedule is subject to change.

8. How can I become a speaker at the Dairy Forum?
Dairy Forum offers attendees access to divergent opinions, important policy makers and the latest research. Because this conference is based on the latest issues and concerns facing the industry as a whole, topics and speakers are suggested by our members and our dairy industry colleagues. If you would like to suggest a topic for Dairy Forum, please email Paxton Styles, IDFA Coordinator of Meetings and Educational Services, at pstyles@idfa.org.

9. How do I register for the Dairy Forum?
The fastest and easiest way to register is online.
You may also email your registration to registrar@idfa.org, fax it to 202-331-7820 or mail it to: IDFA Registrar, 1250 H St, NW, Suite 900, Washington, D.C. 20005.

10. What is the registration fee?
The registration fees for Dairy Forum are based on your company's IDFA membership status. The registration fee is $1,095 for individuals who work for milk producers, member companies that produce dairy products and Gold Business Partners. Individuals who are employed by IDFA Business Partners should register at the $1,295 rate. If your company is not a member of IDFA, your registration fee is $1,495. University faculty or students, members of the media and government employees qualify for a special registration rate of $350.

11. What does my registration fee include?
Your registration fee includes access to all sessions, Monday through Wednesday, meal functions on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and receptions on Sunday and Tuesday evenings.

12. Will I receive a confirmation of my registration?
Yes, you will receive a confirmation for your registration via email or fax. It will contain detailed information about this year's Dairy Forum.

13. What is the registration cancellation/refund policy?
Full refunds will be granted for written cancellations received up to three weeks before the meeting. Cancellations received one to three weeks before the meeting will be eligible for a 50 percent refund. No registration refunds will be granted after January 9, 2012. All cancellations must be received in writing. Substitutions may be made without penalty. All golf, tennis and spouse activity cancellations must be made before December 16, 2011. No optional activity refunds will be given after this date.

14. I am a member of the news media, do you have press registration?
Yes, it is $350.

15. Are there any airfare discounts?
Details coming soon.

16. What is the dress code?
Business casual attire is highly recommended. Make sure to bring a jacket or sweater for the evening, as temperatures tend to drop.Average temperatures in La Quinta in January are 71F high, 42F low.

17. I am bringing my family with me; will there be any activities for them to enjoy?
We offer a variety of activities for families to enjoy. We have morning and afternoon golf tournaments and a tennis tournament on Sunday, January 15th. We also offer two spouse activities at Dairy Forum 2012; the Living Desert Tour from 8:30 a.m. - Noon and a Aerial Tram Tour from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 17th. Please visit the Optional Activities section for more information.

18. What night is the open evening for entertaining clients and exploring La Quinta?
There are no scheduled events on Monday evening.

19. My question is not here! Who should I contact?
If you have any further questions about Dairy Forum 2012, please contact Patrick Crosson, Meetings Assistant & Registrar, at 202-220-3524 or pcrosson@idfa.org

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How to Register

• Register Online
• Download a Registration Form
  1. Email the form to registrar@idfa.org
  2. Fax the form to (202) 331-7820
  3. Mail the form and check to IDFA, 1250 H St, NW, Ste. 900, Washington, DC 20005

For more information, contact the IDFA meetings registrar at registrar@idfa.org.

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