Farming with Family & Friends Fall 2017

FARMING

with Family & Friends

Team Tusk – the Family Behind the Razorback Mascot FALL

2

There’s

of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas

Office Locations and Loan Officers

Arkadelphia 2858 Walnut

870-246-8061 / 800-598-8413

Rachael Godwin, David Smith

Benton 1207 Ferguson Drive

501-860-6391

Kevin Barham

Bentonville 1080 SE 14th St., Suite A 479-273-3311/800-953-6803

Darla Larson

Danville 302 E. 5th Street 479-495-2711 / 800-953-6802

Lora Briggs

De Queen 800 Magnolia

870-584-3113 / 800-421-7714

Jordan Pearce

Fort Smith 12907 Hwy 71 South 479-434-4040

Andrea Leding, James Crabtree, Perry McCourt

Glenwood 131 Hwy 70 E.

870-356-2023 / 800-618-2018

Jordan Pearce

Greenbrier 89C N. Broadview

501-679-5464 / 800-968-2961

Cecil Oursbourn

Harrison 129 W. Industrial Park Road

870-741-2020 / 800-953-6809

Brad Matlock, Dan Benton

Hope 1722 E. 3rd Street

870-777-6704 / 800-431-1317

Jerry Nance, Clay Lance

Huntsville 14238 Hwy 412

479-824-6622

Dilynn Dodd

Magnolia 1703 Pittman Street

870-234-8611 / 800-495-1211

Shaun McKamie

Mena 1607 Hwy 71 North

479-394-1027 / 800-846-0919

Rex Dollar

Morrilton 1329 Hwy 9

501-354-2377 / 800-953-6804

Hank DeSalvo

Nashville 302 W. Bishop

870-845-2221 / 800-575-0415

Denise Sweat

Ozark 1808 Farm Credit Drive

479-667-3855 / 800-953-6807

Tom White, Perry McCourt

Paris 3772 Hwy 22 West

479-963-2841 / 800-953-6805

Donna Cunningham

Prairie Grove 1181 E. Heritage Parkway

479-824-3418

Daniel Keeton, Michael Ferguson

Russellville 2797 East Parkway

479-968-5030 / 800-953-6801

Jim Taylor, Anna Lester

Siloam Springs 4970 Hwy 412 East 479-524-6754 / 800-392-6912

Savannah Dickinson

Texarkana 2805 E. Broad Street

870-772-1882 / 800-451-6120

Jonathan Shumate, Chad Magness, Jennifer Hooper, Randy Coulson

Tontitown 1091 W. Henri de Tonti Blvd. 800-953-6806 / 479-717-6740

Darla Larson

2017 Photo Contest

still time to enter!

Board of Directors

Randy Arnold (Chairman), Alma

Chuck Davis, Jr. (Vice Chairman), Ashdown

Kenny Brixey, Casa

Troy W. Buck, Alpine

Steve Burke, Washington

Scott Carter, Danville

Bob Dixon, Havana

Dusty Hampton, Russellville

Kim Hogan, Ozark

Ron Hubbard, London

Bill Linton, Dover

Kenny Martin, De Queen

Gene Pharr, Lincoln

Mark Wilcox, Greenbrier

L. Duane Wilson, Fayetteville

President and CEO Glen Manchester

Editor Jill Robertson

Jill.Robertson@farmcredit.com

As complex as the political arena is today, it was reassuring to hear a positive message for agriculture in Washington, D.C. at the July Farm Credit FlyIn.

WELCOME TO FARMING

with Family and Friends. In this issue, as with every issue, we enjoy sharing a glimpse of what rural life looks like in western Arkansas. That laser-focus on rural Arkansans is the most important difference between Farm Credit, our competitors, and other institutions. Our employees don’t work at it, they do what they love and truly live it.

ern Arkansas the highest ranking of VERY SATISFIED. Thank you for honoring the Farm Credit personnel you do business with by participating in the survey. Without a doubt, I am extremely proud of our Farm Credit team and their continued delivery of exceptional customer service.

Jill Robertson Editor

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Perdue offered an encouraging scenario for the 2018 Farm Bill. Our six Arkansas legislators projected optimism, as well.

Yes, there’s definitely work to be done. But Farm Credit’s voice was heard on the Hill that day.

I came away with confidence that regardless of the challenges facing Congress, our Arkansas Senators and Congressmen truly work together for the benefit of agriculture, our state’s leading industry.

As a financial cooperative, highquality service to rural western Arkansas communities is more than a nicely framed mission-statement or a promotional slogan in an advertisement. Your Farm Credit exists, entirely, to meet and exceed the expectations that our member-owners have regarding the products and services we deliver to rural communities.

Although we will provide more detail in the next issue of this magazine, I’m pleased to announce the preliminary results of our 2017 Customer Satisfaction Survey. The Walton School of Business at the University of Arkansas conducted the survey - randomly sampling one-half of all member-owners.

The U of A reports that memberowners gave Farm Credit of Western Arkansas a 96.9% overall satisfaction rating! This year’s fantastic score continues a great trend. For more than a decade, member-owners have given the financial cooperative a 96%, or higher, customer satisfaction rating.

This year’s survey also achieved an all-time, high-water mark for customer service. In record-breaking results, more than 8 out of 10 respondents awarded Farm Credit of West-

In addition, please be assured that we will utilize all data and comments you shared. While the feedback from the survey is overwhelmingly positive, candid statements allow us to identify areas for improvement. We know that customer service must never be once and done. The fact of the matter is that great customer service must constantly shift to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers. Thank you for helping us identify areas in need of attention.

Most notably, the survey confirms what I know to be true: Farm Credit’s greatest strength is having branch staff who know their customers and understand their needs. Thank you for that affirmation. It provides an encouragement for our staff to continue to be innovative and to find better, more efficient ways to provide stellar service to members.

God’s richest blessings,

Glen Manchester President and CEO

PHOTO CONTEST

Theme: What makes rural western Arkansas the best place to live!

It’s time once again for the annual Farm Credit of Western Arkansas photography contest, when you or someone you know can share your best pictures and maybe even win a cash prize! So get those cameras rolling and enter your best photos of rural western Arkansas before Friday, September 29, 2017.

The contest is open to both Farm Credit members and non-members in our 41-county Western Arkansas territory.

Two divisions - Adult & Youth (up to 18) cash prizes

1st Place: $300

2nd Place: $200

3rd Place: $100

Find entry forms & complete details at myaglender.com

Annual Director Elections

Watch your mailbox for ballot, voting is your right as a cooperative member

DIRECTOR CANDIDATE information and ballots will mail in mid-September. Ballots will be addressed to voting stockholders as of date of record – July 31, 2017. Members are encouraged to review the candidate information and return their ballot in the postage-paid envelope provided.

Voting stockholders are responsible for electing directors and nominating committee members annually. For a ballot to be eligible, it must be signed by the voting stockholder. If multiple people are on your loan, you can check the ballot envelope to verify the voting stockholder’s name.

Ballots must be received by 4:30 p.m. on October 16. Results will be announced on October 17 and posted at all branches, as well as on myaglender.com.

Your vote helps support Arkansas FFA and Arkansas 4-H

NEW THIS YEAR! The association will donate $10 to the Arkansas FFA Foundation and Arkansas 4-H Foundation for every eligible ballot received. Funds will be split evenly between the two organizations.

2017 DIRECTOR CANDIDATES LISTED ALPHABETICALLY

(All Areas for a four-year term)

Area #1

Don Malone, Benton

Harold “Gene” Pharr, Washington

Area #4

Wade Wiedower, Faulkner

Mark E. Wilcox, Faulkner

Area #6

Charles A. “Chuck” Davis, Little River

Elizabeth F. Walker, Sevier

2017 NOMINEES FOR ASSOCIATION NOMINATING COMMITTEE

(All Areas for a one-year term)

Area #1A:

Johnny Gunsaulis, Washington

William “Will” P. Lane, Benton

Area #1B:

Kevin Harmon, Benton

Adam Maris, Benton

Area #4A:

James W. Mann, Perry

Fred Nutt, Perry

Area #4B:

Ronnie D. Hall, Sr., Faulkner

Jerry L. Hartwick, Faulkner

Area #2A:

Justin “Taylor” Gattis, Franklin

Ernest J. Neissl, Franklin

Area #2B

James A. Ford, Franklin

Mary “Jeana” Sing, Franklin

Area #5A

Linda Kitchens, Howard

Dana Newberg, Howard

Area #5B

Rainna Ghormley, Hempstead

Randy W. Peck, Hempstead

Area #3A:

Allen L. Johnson, Logan

Gerald Strobel, Logan

Area #3B

Casey T. Cotton, Logan

Shawn A. Ezell, Logan

Area #6A

Matthew M. Cobb, Little River

Leslie Huddleston, Little River

Area #6B

Monte K. Davis, Sevier

Michelle K. Sawyer, Sevier

Farm Credit on Capitol Hill

Arkansas contingency a part of national “One Mission. Many Voices.” Campaign

FARM CREDIT HAS SUPPORTed the financing needs of rural America for 101 years. We take this responsibility seriously. We work to ensure that legislators understand our mission and the lending needs of the farmers, ranchers, and rural home owners we serve, as well as the agribusinesses they operate and rural communities where they live.

On July 26, Arkansas Farm Credit representatives joined 630 other Farm Credit directors, CEOs, employees and producers from across the country in Washington, D.C. for a Farm Credit legislative Fly-In event on Capitol Hill.

While 2018 Farm Bill discussions are still in the early stages, the July FlyIn brought attention to Farm Credit and the need for a timely Farm Bill. Farm Credit representatives made more than 300 Capitol Hill office visits in one day. They delivered a consistent message that rural America needs a timely Farm Bill that includes crop insurance and opportunities for rural infrastructure investment.

The four Farm Credit associations in Arkansas (Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Midsouth and Delta, ACA) work together in

furthering Farm Credit needs and goals at both the state and national levels. Together, the four associations employ Scott Sullivan as an independent legislative specialist and agricultural advocate. He regularly communicates with state and national legislators and informs Farm Credit of legislation relevant to Arkansas agriculture and rural lending. As a Farm Credit member with a farm in Grannis, AR, Scott Sullivan understands both Farm Credit and Arkansas agriculture. His experience as a three-term member of the Arkansas House of Representatives further qualifies him to serve as a liaison between Farm Credit and legislators.

“Farm Credit is fortunate to have a unique relationship with Arkansas Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton and Congressmen Steve Womack, Rick Crawford, Bruce Westerman and French Hill,” Sullivan explained.

“In Arkansas, Farm Credit is able to do something that few, if any, other states can do. For the past several years we’ve been able to bring all six legislators together for one meeting on Capitol Hill.”

“It’s an opportunity to discuss Arkansas agriculture and Farm Credit. Each legislator also briefs the Arkansas contingency regarding their specific committee work.”

Farm Credit believes Arkansans are fortunate to have U.S. Senators and Congressmen who understand the importance of agriculture, the state’s leading industry.

“With positions on the Senate Agriculture Committee and House Agriculture Committees, respectfully, Senator Boozman and Congressman Crawford are assets to Farm Credit and Arkansas agriculture,” said Sullivan.

Sullivan further explained that Congressman Steve Womack’s role on the House Appropriations Committee is key to appropriating money to fund the Farm Bill. Congressman French Hill brings experience with

Jill Robertson, Ron Hubbard, Jennifer Martin, Kenny Martin, Randy Arnold, Bob Dixon, Chuck Davis, Genevieve Burke, Steve Burke and Glen Manchester were the voice of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas in Washington, D.C. in July. Farm Credit representatives from across the country participated in the national One Mission. Many Voices. campaign targeting D.C. policymakers.

Congressmen Rick Crawford and Steve Womack addressed the Farm Credit delegation at a breakfast meeting.

Congressman Bruce Westerman (center) visits with Farm Credit Midsouth director Marion Fletcher (left) and Western Arkansas CEO Glen Manchester (right).

rural Arkansas banking and the needs of rural communities to his work on the House Committee on Financial Services. Congressman Bruce Westerman has a valuable role on the House Budget and Natural Resources Committee and is a part of the House Agriculture Committee that monitors the Farm Credit System. Senator Cotton serves on the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee which gives him a good understanding of the needs of Arkansans, and all Americans.

In speaking to Arkansas legislators and staff members in Washington, D.C., the Farm Credit delegation emphasized the need for a timely Farm Bill that includes crop insurance as a risk management tool and addresses the need for rural community infrastructure investment. Farm Credit contends that broadband internet and critical-access hospitals are two examples of valuable infrastructure needed to help keep rural communities viable.

Perdue and Roberts addressed Farm Credit attendees

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

Sonny Perdue, in remarks to Fly-In attendees, lauded Farm Credit’s “reputation of supporting agriculture through thick and thin” and emphasized that Farm Credit is more important than ever.

Perdue discussed the importance of the upcoming Farm Bill and encouraged Farm Credit to make sure lawmakers hear strong support for

maintaining a viable farm safety net. He also talked about the importance of U.S. agriculture exports and about the unique USDA/Farm Credit part-

conclusion of the July 26 Hill visits. The event was held at the Library of Congress.

Farm Credit associations donated items produced by their members and had the opportunity to share stories of farming from their state. Rice, nuts, dried fruit, honey and goatmilk soap were just a few of the products shared with legislative participants.

Advertising and Social Media Impact

nership in regard to improving rural infrastructure.

Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts made news when he spoke to the Farm Credit group, announcing his intention to move on the Farm Bill beginning this fall – much earlier than previously believed.

The day after the July 26 Capitol Hill visits, a Washington state Farm Credit CEO addressed the commodity, credit and crop insurance titles of the 2018 Farm Bill at a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing.

Marketplace event engaged legislators and staff

D.C. policymakers and staff members were invited to sample products made by agricultural producers from across the country at a special Farm Credit Marketplace event at the

National Farm Credit communicators amplified the grassroots messages delivered on Capitol Hill with intense social media and advertising efforts. By geo-targeting Capitol Hill and policy audiences, Farm Credit ads reached nearly 50,000 people and received more than 19,000 views in the D.C. area.

Farm Credit set records on social media with @FarmCredit sending 210 tweets mentioning members of Congress which generated more than 50 engagements from memberof-congress accounts, including a retweet from Senator Rand Paul, who has a Twitter audience of 1.4 million. His single retweet resulted in more than 53,000 impressions for a single @FarmCredit tweet.

“Working together, we made a great case for a strong Farm Bill and raised awareness of Farm Credit and its mission to support rural communities and agriculture,” said Todd Van Hoose, president and CEO of the Farm Credit Council that organized the national Fly-In event.

Board of director Vice President Chuck Davis, and President Randy Arnold and CEO Glen Manchester (right) visit with Senator John Boozman.

Senator Tom Cotton and CEO Glen Manchester discuss Farm Credit’s impact in the state.

Farm Credit of Western Arkansas Director Ron Hubbard presents Congressman French Hill with a national One Mission. Many Voices. t-shirt

LIVIN’ ON TUSK TIME

IMAGINE ENTERING A VENUE packed with 70,000 fans screaming for you as you take your place front and center. This is the reality for rock stars, famous athletes and Keith Stokes. Although, instead of the crowd cheering for Stokes, the cheers are for the 300 lb. hooved beast he has in tow.

Stokes and his family raise TUSK IV, the live University of Arkansas mascot, on their farm in Dardanelle, AR. The family is tasked with caring for the Russian boar and prepping him for visitors and countless pictures on game day.

Although Tusk lives and is cared for on the Stokes’ farm, Stokes is

quick to correct anyone who thinks the family owns the mascot.

“A lot of people say, ‘You own the Razorback mascot!’ And I’ll say, ‘No, I don’t own him. Are you a Razorback fan? Then you own him.’ Every Razorback fan everywhere owns him. We just get to take care of him,” Keith explains.

Stokes has been a part of the live mascot tradition at the University of Arkansas since its start in 1994. At the time, Stokes was president of the Arkansas Pork Producers Association and was approached by former football player and Razorback personality, David Bazzel. Bazzel wanted to enhance the atmosphere of games by

adding a live, authentic razorback.

Looking for the correct breed, Bazzel made a number of calls across the country, including the New York City and San Diego Zoos, but came up empty-handed. With the grand debut of the live mascot just a month away, Bazzel reached out to Stokes, hoping he would have a solution.

Stokes made a few phone calls of his own and called Bazzel back within 10 minutes.

“I called David back and said, ‘I’ve got you two of them in Greenbrier.’ He said, ‘You’re kidding! I’ve been looking all over the world for these things and here they are in our backyard?’” Stokes smiled, remembering

Left to right – Chip, Colt, Lori, Julie, Keith and Abbey Stokes are the Dardanelle family responsible for Tusk the mascot’s care and many public appearances. Photo by Lindsey Triplett.

Woo Pig Sooie! When it comes to calling the hogs, the Stokes family of Dardanelle is calling this one a labor of love.

their conversation from 23 years ago. Together, Bazzel and Stokes traveled to Greenbrier where they brought back Tusk I. Tusk lived briefly at the Little Rock Zoo and Tyson Farms in Springdale before finding a permanent home at Stokes Farm in the fall of 2005.

What sets Tusk apart from a majority of live mascots is that each boar has come from the same lineage. The current Tusk IV is the grandson of the original Tusk I. Tusk II was his father and Tusk III was his uncle.

Taking care of the famous mascot isn’t easy, but it’s a job Stokes enjoys sharing with his family. A typical game day can last 16-18 hours for the

Stokes family, and sometimes longer. When traveling, Tusk is never left alone. The work of caring for the razorback is shared between Keith and his wife Julie, their daughter Abbey, their son Chip and his wife Lori, and even their almost-four-year-old son (Keith and Julie’s grandson), Colt.

Each family member has their own list of responsibilities. Among other things, Chip helps drive Tusk’s trailer, Abbey runs his social media accounts and Colt shares snacks (grapes and apples) with the hog he affectionately calls Big Boy.

Despite the long hours and Tusk’s demanding schedule, Stokes says the responsibility brings his family

closer together.

“It gives us family time. We all have full time jobs and it’s always go, go, go – but this is one thing we can do together,” said Stokes. “Our lives revolve around it. Everything has to be planned around Tusk’s appearances.”

Even with the number of hours, miles and effort the Stokes put into caring for Tusk, they remain humble to the core.

“It’s a very labor-intensive job, but it’s a fun job and we all enjoy it. We also take it seriously,” Stokes said. “Our ultimate goal, and the one thing we keep in mind at all times, is that it has nothing to do with the Stokes.

Left - Tusk enjoys an 8,000-square-foot facility with both heat and air conditioning. He can also go outside to a 10,000-squarefoot outdoor area, complete with mud holes. Photo by Lindsey Triplett Right - Tusk hurries towards his trailer, loading up to see his fans. Photo by Abbey Stokes

Left - In hog heaven. Tusk’s beloved mud baths serve two purposes. When the mud dries hard in the summer, it protects his skin from sunburn. The hardened mud also works as insect repellent. Right - Tusk gets a bath to prep for game day. Photos by Abbey Stokes

What I would love for people to say is, ‘I don’t know who takes care of him, but whoever does, does a very good job.’”

While Stokes has made countless memories with fans during his tenure of caring for Tusk, one story, in particular, sticks out in his mind.

Stokes and his family were headed to Dallas, TX with Tusk in 2008 to watch the Razorbacks play in the Cotton Bowl. Before they reached the Dallas city limits, Stokes decided to stop to fill up with fuel. He noticed a vehicle pulling a U-Haul trailer had been following him for quite some time and as he pulled into the gas station, the vehicle tailed behind.

Soon, the Stokes learned that the young couple driving was en route to their new home in South Carolina. When they passed Tusk’s trailer in Tyler, they drove almost an hour out of the way to snap a photo with the famous razorback.

Stokes remembers the young man saying, “My grandpa is a University of Arkansas alumni and is over 80

years old. He loves Arkansas more than anything. When we saw you, I knew my grandpa had to have a picture.”

Stokes asked what he would have done had they not stopped. He replied, “I knew where you were headed and we were going to follow you all the way to Dallas if we had to!”

Simply telling the story brings a wealth of emotion to Stokes’ voice. “It reminded me just how much Tusk really means to everybody,” he said.

“It made me realize how important doing this is for people.”

While Tusk may be Stokes’ most unique claim to fame, it’s not his only obligation. He also runs a cattle operation and owns timberland. On top of everything else, he serves as the agriculture project manager for the office of Senator Tom Cotton.

Today, the average person is at least three generations removed from the farm. Stokes is a proponent for agriculture advocacy and recognizes the importance of telling the story of agriculture.

“Farmers do everything great. They’re the hardest working, most dedicated people in the world, but there’s one thing farmers don’t do –we don’t tell our story,” Stokes said. “Working for Senator Cotton has given me great opportunities to meet people, to work with farmers, to try to help them and to tell their story.”

Farming runs in Stokes’ family, just like being a Farm Credit member does.

“My grandpa was a Farm Credit member, way back in the 70s and 80s. Farm Credit has always been in our family and we always knew it was a great organization,” he said. “Farm Credit has always been familyoriented and community-oriented. They’ve always been a big part of agriculture here in Arkansas.”

His values and passion for agriculture go hand in hand with Farm Credit’s mission to enrich rural life. Stokes’ loan officer and vice president of the Russellville branch, Jim Taylor, says these things make him an ideal customer.

Left - Colt carries a grain bucket, following behind his dad to help feed. Photo by Lindsey Triplett Top right - Cheerleaders ride atop Tusk’s trailer while entering Razorback Stadium. Photo by Abbey Stokes Bottom right - Abbey and Colt feed grapes to two female razorbacks. One of them will be bred to Tusk IV this fall, with Tusk V planning to debut in 2018. Photo by Lindsey Triplett

“Keith and I have had a great relationship from day one. Our personalities mesh well and he’s an easygoing guy with a businesscentered mind,” Taylor said. “His love for animals and farming play right in with what we believe at Farm Credit, which is why I feel we are able to serve Keith and his family so well. Keith, having years of public service, is relationship-oriented and, I feel, values the relationships he has with the Russellville branch staff.”

For anyone who meets Stokes, it’s easy to see where his love and passion lie – with his family, agriculture and, of course, the Razorbacks. Being caretaker for Tusk allows him to combine all three.

Stokes’ favorite part of the live mascot tradition may be its ability to bring people together.

“It’s something we can be proud of in this state. It’s the one thing you can be, even if you’re in a different state or country,” he said. “All you have to say is ‘Woo Pig’ and if anyone else from Arkansas is there, they’re going to say ‘Sooie!’, and that brings people together. It can be strangers you’ve never met. It can be someone who hasn’t lived in the state for 50 years. But they know Woo Pig Sooie.”

This fall, as fans fill the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium and start calling the hogs, you can bet the Stokes will be there too – with Tusk in tow and plenty of Razorback pride.

Top left - Tusk is rewarded a grape for sitting on command. Photo by Lindsey Triplett Bottom left - Tusk poses alongside the other Razorback mascots. Photo by Abbey Stokes Top right - Jim Taylor, Vice President and loan officer, with Keith Stokes and Tusk. Photo by Lindsey Triplett Middle right - Colt does his best “oink!”, impersonating Tusk inside his trailer.

Photo by Lindsey Triplett Bottom right - Tusk rests in between celebrity appearances. The term razorback is used to describe feral hogs/Russian boars. The name came about because of their high, hair-covered backbone and ill-mannered temper.

Photo by Abbey Stokes

Story by Lindsey Triplett

2017 Referral Rewards

We learned years ago that our members are the best advertising tool we have. Potential new members are quick to trust a friend or family member who shares their own, personal Farm Credit story. Personal referrals are much more effective than magazine, radio or TV ads.

You probably know people who are a lot like you. People who would appreciate the benefits Farm Credit can offer:

•Long-term, fixed interest rates and flexible terms

•Financing homes on any size acreage in the country (loans stay with Farm Credit)

•Special discounts for military veterans, young/beginning farmers and even small producers selling direct to consumers

•Patronage Cash ($7.6 MILLION in members’ pockets this year and $101+ MILLION since 1997)

•Friendly, local service

•Employees who understand agriculture and are involved in your local community

HOW IT WORKS: It’s simple.

1 - Encourage a friend to talk to Farm Credit about their financing needs

2 - When they close a loan with us, we ask who referred them

3 - We call and invite you to drop by and choose a thank-you gift of your choice

Refer as many people as you like! We’re happy to give you a gift for each person who closes a new loan.

Your thank-you for spreading the word about why it’s great to do business with Farm Credit!

Farm Credit is a financial cooperative, and that’s unique – Comparing

TODAY, THE LENDING landscape is cluttered with lenders of all types and sizes. More lenders means increased competition, and that’s a good thing.

Competition keeps rates fair for consumers. Fair interest rates benefit farmers and rural home owners and means, ultimately, stronger rural communities. Farm Credit is all for competition, and we believe we offer the most competitive rates and terms in western Arkansas.

With that said, it’s important to remember that Farm Credit operates a little differently. We’re a financial cooperative serving the lending needs of our member-borrowers. We’re not a traditional bank.

First, while interest rates are many times the go-to benchmark when comparing lenders, interest rates alone do not tell the whole story. Factors like whether the interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan, or if it will change in three to five years, have to be factored into the equation so that you are comparing apples to apples.

A low, variable or balloon rate with one lender that may increase over time may not be a better deal than a slightly higher, fixed (permanent), long-term rate with another lender.

Farm Credit offers a selection of options, similar to those recognized at most financial institutions, however; we also offer long-term (up to 30 years),

apples to apples

fixed interest rates and construction/ permanent loans that allow you to lock your long-term interest rate at the start of your poultry facility or home construction. Some consumers look at the interest rate number only, and think the cost of doing business with Farm Credit is higher. Not true. As a financial cooperative, we abide by the cooperative principle of sharing our profits with members when we have a good year. For the past 20 consecutive years, directors have granted Patronage Cash to members based on the association’s financial success. More than $101 MILLION has gone back into Western Arkansas members’ hands since 1996. Sharing significant profits with members is what cooperatives do. It effectively lowers your interest rate, or the cost of doing business with us. Historically, the amount of annual Patronage Cash paid considerably lowers the true interest cost. The impact of Patronage Cash needs to be factored in when comparing Farm Credit to traditional lenders.

Second, we’re able to offer 30-year, fixed interest rates on land and home loans in the country and we keep these loans in-house, in our own loan portfolio. This means that you receive local service from the same folks who closed your loan, for the life of your loan. We don’t sell home loans on the secondary market like most banks do.

Your loan will always stay with Farm Credit. You’ll never open a letter to learn your home loan has been sold to an out-of-state lender.

Third, Farm Credit is unique in that we offer choices when it comes to loans and terms. We do this so we can easily tailor loans to meet the needs of individual borrowers. While some lenders are primarily promoting balloon rates, Farm Credit is happy to offer variable, adjustable, balloon AND long-term fixed interest rate options. You decide which is best for you.

We offer balloon and adjustable rate options because they may fit the needs of some customers. Customers’ business plans or personal needs may dictate a need for short term loans with the lower rate opportunities afforded by balloon and adjustable loans. Rates are lower for adjustable and balloon loans because there is less risk committing money for a short period of time, versus tying up money for 20 or 30 years at a set interest rate.

Long-term, fixed interest rates, one-time closings on construction/ permanent loans and Patronage Cash help make Farm Credit a unique lender in western Arkansas. Rest assured, we’re always working to ensure we are competitive and performing responsibly for our members. To this end, we conduct third party, semi-annual surveys to see how our rates stack up against other lenders.

The Seven Cooperative Principles

1. Voluntary and open membership All eligible members may join and do business with a cooperative.

2. Democratic member control One member, one vote.

3. Member economic participation Members make equitable contributions to capital and they, in turn, earn a share of the cooperative’s profits.

4. Autonomy and independence The organization is autonomous and controlled by its members.

5. Education and training Cooperatives are committed to providing training and education to members, directors and employees.

6. Cooperation among cooperatives Cooperatives work together through regional and national structures, for the betterment of all.

7. Concern for community Members are committed to improving their local community.

Chasing Banners & Beliefs Life lessons learned from showing animals are the real trophies

THOMAS EDISON ONCE said, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

While the work ethic of today’s youth may be questioned by some, a visit to any livestock barn during fair season proves the quality is alive and well.

The kids who show livestock are a rare breed. Their summers aren’t spent sleeping in, watching TV or playing video games. Instead, you’ll find them in the barn, with sweat glistening on their skin as they feed, water, groom or work their animals.

If you’ve ever shown livestock or been around this competitive circuit, you know how much heart and soul goes into preparing an animal for a livestock show.

For some showmen and women, being in the show ring has been a part of their identity for much of their life.

Kaylie Stone

Kaylie Stone is a Gurdon High School senior and FFA member. She shows lambs, goats, pigs, cattle and rabbits. Growing up with a dad as an ag teacher, Kaylie was raised around livestock. When she was 8-years-old, she began showing competitively.

Despite the early mornings and having a full plate showing so many different animals, Kaylie’s competitive spirit drives her to keep going.

“I’ve been around it my whole life. Growing up, I’ve always been competitive and learned how to work hard and give it all I’ve got,” she said. “That’s what makes me wake up and want to do it every morning – because I want to be better than I was the day before.”

Her hard work has paid off.

Kaylie has shown at her local fair, across the state and even

nationwide. Her impressive collection of banners and belt buckles prove she’s been successful, but when the banners fade and the buckles tarnish,

Kaylie Stone’s story in pictures

Kaylie Stone (middle) proudly shows off her grand champion banners and Farm Credit youth loan sign with Regional FSS Morgan White and Assistant Vice President Rachael Godwin. (2013)

Cain Calley’s story in pictures

Kaylie braces her lamb in the show ring at a 2017 summer jackpot show.

the skills she’s learned will still be intact. “I’ve definitely learned a lot of responsibility by getting up every morning, feeding my animals and maintaining the routines that have to go along with it,” she said. “I’ve also developed leadership skills from being in FFA, which goes hand in hand with showing livestock.”

While not all youth have shown as long as Kaylie has, the skills taught

and passion for the sport are universal among participants.

Cain Calley

12-year-old Cain Calley from Gurdon will begin the second year of his showmanship career this fall. Cain said he started showing cattle because of a desire to start a herd of his own. Like Kaylie, he’s all too familiar with early mornings and hot

summers spent in the barn.

Cain’s mother, Yolanda Calley, is proud of the values showing cattle is teaching Cain.

“It teaches them responsibility and to set goals. If they take care of themselves, they’ll take care of their family. Farming and family – they’re just good values to have,” she said.

Above – Kaylie’s dad, Stacey Stone, helps her during one of her first shows at age 3. (2003) Right – Kaylie has grown up around livestock. Her big smile is proof of her love for animals at age 4. (2004)

Opposite page – Cain Calley relaxes on his show heifer while in the show barn. (2016) Above – Cain poses beside his show calf for the 2017 show season. Cain shows Santa Gertrudis cattle. (2017)

Cain and his loan officer Rachael Godwin stand beside his 2016 show heifer. (2017)

Ryan and Lexi Lane

For many, showing livestock is a family tradition. Sibling duo Ryan (15) and Lexi (11) Lane have shown Shorthorn cattle across the country. Lexi’s interest was sparked by her big brother, but today the healthy competition fueled by sibling rivalry is fierce.

When asked who the better showman is, Lexi said with a sly grin, “Well, I won our county fair two years in a row and he hasn’t beat me.”

Time management is one of the impressive qualities shared by students who show livestock. In addition to showing cattle, Ryan is a member of the Ozark Youth Shooting Team, serves as Area I Vice President for the Arkansas Junior Cattlemen’s Association and runs cross country.

While such a busy schedule would wear some young people out, Ryan, like other students showing livestock, still devotes a tremendous amount of effort and persistence to achieve excellence in each of his extracurricular activities.

Winning isn’t everything, though. For students showing animals, hard work is driven by two things – a love for agriculture and a love for animals. Winning is just icing on the cake.

When asked about her biggest accomplishment, Lexi said, “I don’t know. I’ve had a really good time showing. It’s hard to think of all the

times you’re winning. I mean, you remember when you’re winning, but you really remember the people you meet.”

The Lanes have had the chance to meet livestock exhibitors from across the country. Their dad, Will Lane, said Lexi’s become quite popular in the show circuit, thanks to her big, sassy personality and winning the title of Arkansas Shorthorn Princess.

Will said the friendships his children have built sets showing livestock apart from other activities and sports. He said it’s opened their eyes to many personalities and cultures from other states. It’s also built friendships that Ryan and Lexi will have long after leaving the ring and show barn.

“It’s really exciting when we show up somewhere and we lose the kids because they want to see their buddies from South Dakota, Minnesota or Oklahoma,” he said. “I think there’s a lot of ways kids can learn lessons, but I don’t think there’s any other program in the country that builds relationships like showing livestock.”

Youth Loan Program celebrates 10-year mark

The relationship-building, life lessons and work ethic that come with showing livestock are some of the many reasons Farm Credit of Western Arkansas created the Youth Loan Program in 2007 to help western

Arkansas youth fund FFA and 4-H livestock projects.

Kaylie, Cain, Ryan and Lexi have all participated in Farm Credit’s Youth Loan Program.

For Will Lane, deciding to let his children use the program was an easy decision.

“As the kids got old enough to start participating in youth events, we thought it was important for them to get the experience of going out and borrowing money so they can learn how to track their expenses,” he said.

Will said he appreciates the financial lessons the Youth Loan Program has taught his children. It’s also given Ryan the ability to start building a small herd of his own at an affordable rate.

Arkadelphia Vice President and Branch Manager Rachael Godwin is Kaylie and Cain’s loan officer. Rachael said the Youth Loan Program is an excellent tool to teach responsibility and to begin building a relationship with Farm Credit. Rachael showed livestock in high school and understands the value behind the activity.

“I learned a lot from showing. I think it teaches you a lot of responsibility and it gives you a purpose,” she said. “It teaches you a lot of life aspects. You know how to win humbly and lose graciously. It allowed me to meet lifelong friends that I may

Ryan and Lexi Lane’s story in pictures

Lexi Lane (far right) sets up her heifer at the National Junior Shorthorn Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma, standing next to her brother Ryan. (2017)

Ryan and Lexi at the 2012 Arkansas Oklahoma State fair. Ages 11 and 6 at the time.

have never met, and travel places I may have never traveled.”

If you’re looking for confidence in the future generation, attend a livestock show this fall. If you study the kids instead of the animals, you’ll notice there are many winners at the

show, and not just the ones earning a blue ribbon.

While you may not find them dressed in overalls, you’re sure to find them with a firm handshake ready for the judge, confidence in the animal they’ve spent so many months

preparing, and definitely not afraid of hard work.

Story by Lindsey Triplett

Farm Credit Youth Loan Program

Eligible applicants can qualify for up to $2,500 to be used to finance a 4-H or FFA projects.

To qualify, applicants must:

• be a current 4-H or FFA member

• be enrolled in a livestock or field crop project

• present a written plan explaining their project

• present a written repayment plan

• have the signed approval of 4-H or FFA leader, or ag teacher

• have a parent (or grandparent) willing to sign the loan agreement

A parent (or grandparent) must sign the application agreeing to supervise the animal project and be held responsible for repayment, if needed.

Youth Loan members are expected to keep records and make payments according to the binding loan agreement. As a member of the financial cooperative, youth earn Patronage Cash Back (minimum of $25) based on the amount of loan interest paid.

Farm Credit lends funds at cost, which means that Farm Credit does not make a profit on youth loans.

Youth loans were created to give youth a way to purchase show animals, to learn about the loan process, to build credit in their name, and learn responsibility.

Contact your local branch office for assistance.

Lexi smiles as she proudly shows off her heifer, Mona Lisa, at the 2016 National Junior Shorthorn Show in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Ryan practices his showmanship skills with his Shorthorn bull. (2017)

$13,000 donation to American Red Cross to support AR flood relief efforts

FARM CREDIT OF WESTERN

Arkansas joined with fellow Arkansas Farm Credit associations to make a combined $13,000 donation to the American Red Cross in support of flood relief efforts across the state.

Widespread flooding in late April 2017 killed five people and displaced hundreds of Arkansans. True to its mission, the American Red Cross was one of the first agencies to mobilize

and offer assistance to persons in affected areas. The Red Cross served more than 7,500 meals, distributed nearly 1,700 clean-up kits and provided 1,000 overnight shelter stays.

The flooding created long-term issues for some farmers. Arkansas Division of Agriculture experts estimated in early summer that more than 360,000 acres of farmland were lost for the 2017 growing season.

Rice production accounts for half of the lost acreage. Eric Wailes with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture estimates row crop losses at $175 million.

With offices in some of the hardest hit areas of eastern Arkansas, Farm Credit Midsouth CEO James McJunkins took the lead in organizing state-wide Farm Credit support.

Above — Eastern Arkansas flooding – April 2017. Below — Representatives from four Arkansas Farm Credit associations present a statewide donation to assist with flood relief.

PEACE OF MIND during the storm

Easy, low interest storm shelter loans are available to eligible borrowers*

• For the purchase and installation of professionally manufactured storm shelters

• Up to $7,500 per storm shelter

• 3, 5 and 7-year loan options

• Low, fixed rates

• Quick credit approval (in a matter of minutes, in most cases)

*Eligible borrows reside on farms or in homes in the country in one of the 41 counties served by Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. myaglender.com

Chad Magness accepted the position of Assistant Vice President of

New employees

Lyndsey Lamproe joined the Farm Credit team on May 1 as Financial

Services Specialist in the Prairie Grove office. Lyndsey has 18 years of banking experience in NWA. She and husband Chris live in Lincoln with their children Gavin and Ella.

Phillip Hoskins joined Farm Credit as a Regional Appraiser

Lindsey Triplett transitioned from college intern to full-time Communications Specialist in late May. She works in the central office in Russellville. She graduated from Arkansas Tech University in May with a degree in ag business public relations and is originally from Damascus.

Hunter Daniel joined Farm Credit as a Credit Analyst in June. He gradu-

the Texarkana branch in early June. Most recently, Chad was a credit analyst for a commercial bank. He and wife Stacye have a two-year-old son, Dalton.

Trainee in mid-May. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2015 with a degree in business management and a minor in real estate finance. He was raised on a breeder hen and cattle farm in Huntsville.

ated from Arkansas Tech University in May with a degree in ag business and is from Pottsville. He grew up on a cow/calf operation and maintains his own herd, as well.

Allison studied agriculture education at the University of Arkansas and most recently worked in the Springdale schools as an agriculture teacher. Allison and husband JR live in Springdale.

State Fair Herdsman Awards – Oct. 12-22

It’s almost State Fair time….and time to think about Herdsman awards. Farm Credit of Western Arkansas awards cash prizes to youth in seven different categories for keeping their animals and pens tidy at the fair. We’ll award $4,200 again this year. It’s a great way for individual youth, or groups, to help pay their fair expenses.

Allison Kline is the new Financial Services Specialist in Tontitown.

Sherry Boen joined Farm Credit on July 17 as an AgriConsumer Loan

comes from an agricultural background, growing up on a small beef cattle operation in Linden, TX.

Hannah Grant worked as a field services intern for southern branch offices. She is from Katy, Texas and graduated in May from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness. Hannah was an active high school FFA member and showed goats.

Ally Herrera also moved from a part-time position to a full-time Financial Services Specialist in May. Ally is in the De Queen branch and just finished her degree at Cossatot Community College.

Specialist and will work in the new Clarksville location once it is open. She is currently working in the Russellville branch office. Sherry is a long-time Johnson County resident and has 36 years of banking experience. She and husband Robert farm in Ozone. They have two adult children and four grandchildren.

Summer interns

Hailey Paulsen worked as a summer field services intern for northwest Arkansas, based out of the Tontitown branch. Although she didn’t grow up around agriculture, Hailey was involved in FFA and served as the Area XI Vice President for Missouri FFA. She is from Aurora, MO and is a senior at the University of Arkansas studying agriculture business. Haily will continue to work part-time for Farm Credit this fall.

Isaiah Currie served as a summer field services intern for the River Valley, based out of the Russellville branch. Isaiah is a senior agriculture business major at Arkansas Tech University. He

Misty Oglesby worked from the Magnolia branch this summer as a field services intern. Misty is from Mena, AR where she grew up on a cattle farm. She currently attends Southern Arkansas University, where she is majoring in agribusiness. She plans to graduate in May 2019.

Changing places

Morgan White, formerly a Financial Services Specialist in the Arkadelphia branch, accepted the position of Regional Financial Services Specialist in May. She now regularly travels between southern branch offices. Morgan began her Farm Credit career in 2009.

Kristin Cloninger transitioned from a part-time position to fulltime Financial Services Specialist at the Arkadelphia branch after graduating from Henderson State University in May.

New Clarksville branch under construction

Construction has begun on Farm Credit of Western Arkansas’ new Clarksville location at 1007 Interstate Drive. The 1,700 square-foot building is expected to open in early 2018.

Vice President Jim Taylor, Board President Randy Arnold of Alma, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Brandon Haberer, Assistant Vice President Anna Lester and Regional Vice President Perry McCourt represented Farm Credit at the June ground-breaking event.

The new stand-alone building will replace Farm Credit’s shared office space in the Clarksville Farm Bureau building. Assistant Vice President Anna Lester andAgriConsumer Loan Specialist Sherry Boen will staff the office when it is complete. Office hours will be 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“We continue to see increasing opportunities to assist Johnson County farmers and rural homeowners with their financing needs,” said Assistant Vice President Anna Lester.

“We’re excited to grow our presence in this community and believe customers will appreciate the convenience of our new location near Interstate 40 and expanded branch hours,” Anna continued.

NEW Benton location

Carol Parker, Accounts Payable Accountant in the central office in Russellville, presents a $500 check to Pope County 4-H. Carol is a long-time volunteer 4-H board member and the donation is a part of Farm Credit’s Community Involvement program. Farm Credit rewards employees who serve in local, volunteer leadership positions by making a donation in their honor.

National employer award

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) affirmed what we’ve believed for some time. Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is a great place to work! The association earned a 2017 When Work Works award. The award spotlights flexible workplaces that yield positive business results and help employees succeed at work and at home.

In addition to our flexible work schedule, WEAR was recognized for a number of programs that empower employees to better serve members. Employee-assistance and service award programs were praised for contributing to a positive and productive work culture, as well.

The Benton office has moved to a new location at 15227 I-30 S to better serve the Saline and Garland County areas.

Above — The Mt. Ida FFA Shooting Sports Team competed in the national Junior Olympic trials in Colorado Springs, CO in July. Below — Shooting sports team members Brady and Austin Rowland accepted a Farm Credit donation on behalf of the team. Appraiser Brian Cowart and Financial Services Specialist Danielle Brown (center) of the Glenwood branch made the donation that went toward the team’s ammunition and travel expenses

Supporting youth leadership

The Farm Credit associations across the state have a long-standing tradition of treating incoming FFA and 4-H state officer teams to dinner during their respective training weeks. It gives Farm Credit the opportunity to get to know the new officers, learn about their plans for the year and encourage their leadership development.

96.9% Customer Satisfaction

Thank you to those who took the time to complete the recent customer satisfaction survey and provide valuable feedback. Members awarded the association a total satisfaction score of 96.9% this year.

More impressively, we earned a score of 82.2% in the highest category of VERY SATISFIED members – our top score in that category since we began surveying members more than 10 years ago.

Please know we are carefully considering all the data as well as the constructive comments you provided. This information helps us better serve you.

their new livestock trailer. Farm Credit made a donation to help fund the trailer.

Above — Newly-elected state FFA officers joined Farm Credit representatives for dinner in early June. Below — Farm Credit hosted newly-elected 4-H state officers in early August

Fountain Lake FFA supporters purchased a concession trailer this summer. Volunteers will sell concessions at various community events and profits will fund the Fountain Lake FFA group. Vice President and Branch Manager Kevin Barham of the Benton office made a donation toward the trailer on Farm Credit’s behalf.

Vice President and Branch Manager Donna Cunningham of the Paris branch office poses with Magazine FFA livestock team members in front of

Financial Services Specialist Ally Herrera and Assistant Vice President Jordan Pearce of the De Queen branch office presented Chris Hale with a donation of 30 soccer balls for the De Queen Parks Department’s summer and fall youth soccer league.

Enriching rural life.

Let Farm Credit’s industry-leading knowledge, competitive products, and 101 years of agricultural and rural financing experience help you!

• Real estate, operating, and equipment loans for farms

• Timberland

• Forest Products/ Processing/ Marketing

• Truck and SUV leases

• Home Mortgages in the country

• Home construction loans

• Mortgage, credit, life and disability insurance

• Term-Life insurance protection

• Farmland appraisals

Where has your Farm Credit shirt taken you? Tag us in a picture wearing your Farm Credit t-shirt on any of our social media channels and we’ll send you a small gift of appreciation. On the farm, at school, during the fair or trips outside of Arkansas – we want to see where Farm Credit travels!

Find us on social media by searching for “Farm Credit of Western Arkansas” on Facebook or @FarmCreditWEAR on Twitter and Instagram. You can also find us at “Farm Credit of Western Arkansas en Español” on Facebook, for posts in Spanish.

We’ll watch for your posts and message you to see where we should send your gift. Thanks for showing us your Farm Credit pride!

PARTING SHOT

The Strobel and Forst families enjoyed time at Fort Walton Beach in Florida while wearing their 2017 Farm Credit shirts.