The Maryland Grain Producers Association (MGPA), Maryland Soybean Board, Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board, and Mid-Atlantic Soybean Association are pleased to announce Orion "The Big O" Samuelson as the keynote speaker for the 13th Annual Maryland Commodity Classic on Thursday, July 28, 2011, in Queen Anne's County. 

Orion Samuelson was born on a dairy farm in Ontario, Wisconsin, where he began his radio career.  He is best known for his association with WGN Radio in Chicago, serving as the station's head agriculture broadcaster since 1960.  In addition to co-hosting The Morning Show on Saturdays, Samuelson hosts a daily National Farm Report, and a weekly commentary, Samuelson Sez; both which are syndicated to various stations across the country through Tribune Radio Network.  Samuelson also was the host of U.S. Farm Report, a weekly television news magazine dedicated to agriculture. He has since retired from that position, with John Phipps, who headlined the 2007 Classic, replacing him. Samuelson now hosts a similar show, This Week in Agribusiness, on RFD-TV.

The Maryland Commodity Classic opens with wagon tours of checkoff projects at the Wye Research and Education Center from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m.  Exhibits open at Queen Anne’s 4-H Park at 11:00 a.m., with lunch available from 12:00-1:00 p.m.  The business meeting begins at 1:00 p.m., followed by speakers and opportunity to vote for the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program.  The event concludes with the famous Crab Feast, Pork and Chicken Barbecue.  Entry prior to 2:30 p.m. is $10, and after 2:30 p.m. the entry fee is $20, there is no entry after 3:30 p.m.   Maryland Grain Producers Association members receive a free ticket.  Contact Lynne Hoot for MGPA membership or Commodity Classic information at 410-956-5771 or email lynnehoot@aol.com.