Oct. 4, 2002 Acclaimed Risk Management Program Returns to Lubbock Writer: Tim W. McAlavy, (806) 746-6101, email: t-mcalavy@tamu.edu Contact: Dr. Jackie Smith, (806) 746-6101, email: j-smith34@tamu.edu LUBBOCK – Texas Cooperative Extension is now recruiting the next batch of participants for its 2003 Master Marketer risk management education program at Lubbock. This in-depth, intensive program teaches participants how to identify and evaluate marketing opportunities, and then design and follow through with sound marketing plans. “We are looking for a few good ag marketers who want to hone their marketing skills to a finer edge, and who can help their neighbors do the same,” said Jackie Smith, Extension economist at the Lubbock center. “Participants will also learn the skills necessary to execute a marketing plan, and how to manage risk to improve their profitability. “Master Marketer training pays direct dividends to the bottom line. A recent survey suggests past participants were able to increase their average annual gross revenues from three to 10 percent, or about $30,000 each, simply by applying their new-found marketing skills and knowledge.” Master Marketers learn from top industry and university professionals, who apply case study examples and simulation exercises in the classroom. The 64-hour curriculum is offered in four, two-day sessions held every two weeks. Graduates then take their new-found expertise and knowledge home as volunteers who work with county marketing clubs. This master volunteer approach has proven an effective way for Extension and other program sponsors to spread the training across a large group of participants, Smith noted. The first of four 2003 Master Marketer sessions begins January 22, 2003. “Registration costs $250 per person, plus a commitment to work with your county agent back home to try to start a marketing club,” Smith said. “Statewide demand for this type of training continues to grow, which is why we are bringing the program back to Lubbock for the third time. We have more than 120 Master Marketer graduates in the Lubbock area alone.”  Checks or money orders for registration should be payable to the Texas Extension Education Foundation. Enrollment for the 2003 Master Marketer Program in Lubbock may be limited, so prompt registration is recommended, Smith said. Registration fees pay only a small portion of the program’s cost. Grants from Extension partners such as the Texas Corn Producers Board, Texas Wheat Producers Association, Texas Farm Bureau, the Cotton State Support Committee, and agribusiness also helps fund the training. Texans can get registration forms or more information on the 2003 Master Marketers Program in Lubbock by calling Smith at (806) 746-6101, or their local county Extension office. More information on the Master Marketer Program is also available on the Internet ( http://mastermarketer.tamu.edu ). -30-