FARM CREDIT OF WESTERN ARKANSAS
FARMING with Family & Friends
Viney Creek Farm – our first Fresh & Local loan recipient
FALL 2016
Table of Contents
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Annual Director Elections
Members are encouraged to vote. Watch your mail box for your ballot.
Committed to Agriculture Celebrating Farm Credit’s milestone anniversary
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NEW Fresh & Local Loan Program
Special program for small producers selling directly to consumers
5 Viney Creek farm First customer to utilize new
Fresh and Local loan program
Photo Contest 11 Open to all amateur photographers from across
western Arkansas; entry deadline October 31
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Businessman Cattleman
Texarkana area rancher excels in the cattle business
14 Storm Protection Popular storm shelter loans providing peace of mind
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Legacy Members
Long-time Western Arkansas members
President’s Letter News Briefs About the Cover
Delinda LaRue has created a market for her quality goat soaps from what began as a hobby for her and partner David Ulrey, of Dover, AR. The couple raises, shows and competitively breeds Nigerian Dwarf goats.
Published for the members and friends 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 Connie Jones 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 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, Jennifer Day, Randy Coulson Tontitown 1091 W. Henri de Tonti Blvd. 800-953-6806 / 479-717-6740 Kyle Karr
Board of Directors Randy Arnold (Chairman), Alma Chuck Davis, Jr. (Vice Chairman), Ashdown Bruce Alford, Lewisville 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 Gene Pharr, Lincoln Mark Wilcox, Greenbrier L. Duane Wilson, Fayetteville President and CEO Glen Manchester Editor Jill Robertson Jill.Robertson@farmcredit.com
What an exciting time to tell the Farm Credit story! Our proud 100-year history of serving rural America is the perfect backdrop for conveying our commitment to agriculture today, and tomorrow. Jill Robertson Our pledge Editor to finance the rural lifestyle, in good economic times and bad, has been shared with legislators in Washington, D.C. twice this year, reinforcing an important message as they work on behalf of Arkansas’ interests. Beginning farmers benefited from our first statewide Legacy Farmer Conference. We shared the story of farming with hundreds of school children at local educational events. What an exciting way to kickoff our next century of service!
Farming is published by Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. Please address any comments to Editor, Farming, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, 3115 W. 2nd Court, Russellville, AR 72801. Member Cooperative Communicators Association. © 2016 Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. Printed with farmer-grown soybean ink on recycled paper.
PRESIDENT’s LETTER
Glen Manchester President and CEO
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S A CREDIT COOPERATIVE, seven fundamental principles form the framework of our business plan. One principle is the democratic process of electing fellow members to serve as directors, thus giving membership a voice in how the association does business. A second principle is that members share in the profits when business is good. First, our annual director election is upon us and candidate information and ballots will soon land in the mailbox of every voting stockholder. Our ability to make business decisions that reflect member wants and needs is dependent on members taking an active role in the director election process. Your right to vote for director leadership is a cooperative benefit. We are supplying voting members with as much information as possible. Included in candidate biographies are candid answers to three questions tied to their desire to serve as a director. I encourage you to take time to evaluate the candidates and cast your vote. Historically, we’ve experienced poor voter response. I challenge members to correct that trend by casting informed votes and returning ballots in the envelope provided. Secondly, there is exciting news in terms of patronage cash for members. Barring any unforeseen fourth quarter circumstances, we are on track to distribute patronage cash that will put Farm Credit of Western Arkansas total patronage returns at $100 million, since 1997. It appears we will reach the association’s goal of $100 million in total patronage in this, our 20th consecutive year of sharing
profits with members. $100 million to celebrate 100 years of service to rural America. What a great capstone to Farm Credit’s 100-year anniversary celebration! This is possible because of the phenomenal business year we are having. A strong year we are attributing to talented, hard-working employees and our ability to offer long-term, fixed interest rates. Those are both things that set Farm Credit apart in the competitive landscape of western Arkansas lenders. Our association is intentionally working to keep interest rates low and ensure members lock-in these historically low rates for the long-term. As a credit cooperative, our members’ financial success takes precedent over maximizing association profit. It is the association and directors’ intent to keep rates low and the association’s spread on funds minimal. Please know that we extend these member benefits while also maintaining a strong balance sheet. A strong balance sheet ensures our association is ready for adversity or whatever the future may hold. It is fitting to celebrate member benefits in October - national cooperative month. I’m confident Farm Credit’s advantages will continue to stand the test of time as we embark on our next century of service to rural America.
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Annual Director Elections Watch for your ballot, voting is your right as a cooperative member
Director candidate information and ballots will be mailed in early October to all voting stockholders as of date of record – August 31, 2016. Members are encouraged to review the candidate information and return their ballot in the envelope provided. Voting stockholders are responsible for electing directors and nominating committee members annually. Ballots must be received by close of business November 3, 2016. 2016 DIRECTOR CANDIDATES LISTED ALPHABETICALLY, by area (all areas for a four-year term) Area #2 Kevin Crumpacker, Franklin William “Bill” L. Linton, Jr., Pope Area #4 Kenneth “Kenny” Brixey, Perry Jason Trantina, Perry Area #6 Kenneth W. Martin, D.V.M., Sevier Tim Spruell, Lafayette
2016 NOMINEES FOR ASSOCIATION NOMINATING COMMITTEE (All Areas for a one-year term)
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Area #1A: Area #2A: Kevin Harmon, Benton Justin “Taylor” Gattis, Franklin William “Will” P. Lane, Benton Ernest J. Neissl, Franklin
Area #3A: Allen L. Johnson, Logan Gerald Strobel, Logan
Area #1B: Area #2B: Johnny Gunsaulis, Washington James A. Ford, Franklin Dennis Schwerin, Benton Mary “Jeana” Sing, Franklin
Area #3B: Casey T. Cotton, Logan Shawn A. Ezell, Logan
Area #4A: Area #5A: Nicholas C. Frey, Perry Charles Blue, Jr., Howard James W. Mann, Perry Linda Kitchens, Howard
Area #6A: Adam B. Cobb, Little River Leslie Huddleston, Little River
Area #4B: Area #5B: Ronnie D. Hall, Sr., Faulkner Randy W. Peck, Hempstead Jerry L. Hartwick, Faulkner Dusty Townsend, Hempstead
Area #6B: Monte K. Davis, Sevier Michelle K. Sawyer, Sevier
Committed to agriculture, today and tomorrow Marking Farm Credit’s 100-year milestone anniversary in significant ways
$30,000 donation for New South Produce Cooperative
From the beginning, Farm Credit’s mission has been to support all types of agriculture. Farm Credit’s donation demonstrates a commitment to agriculture today, and tomorrow. Farm Credit of Western Arkansas teamed up with AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Midsouth and AgriBank (our district funding bank) to present three cooling trailers to the New South Produce Cooperative. The mid-July donation formally marked Farm Credit’s July 17 100-year anniversary date. Each trailer is equipped with a small air conditioner and generator that economically cools the trailer’s interior and prolongs the shelf-life of produce in summer months. The New South Produce Cooperative collects produce from member farms and transports it to customers, including a number of farmers markets across the state.
Capitol Hill visits with Arkansas Senators and Representatives
Farm Credit directors and CEOs from across the state met with Arkansas legislators in Washington, D.C. in June. They had the opportunity to reinforce the Farm Credit System message, discuss Arkansas agricultural needs, and highlight Farm Credit’s proud 100-year service to rural America. Arkansas Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton and Arkansas Representatives Steve Womack, Bruce Westerman, French Hill and Rick Crawford each addressed the Arkansas delegation at a Capitol Hill meeting.
Farm Credit Midsouth CEO James McJunkins (center) announces Farm Credit’s statewide donation of three cooling trailers for the New South Produce Cooperative. AgHeritage Farm Credit Services CEO Greg Cole (left) and Farm Credit of Western Arkansas EVP Tom Peebles joined McJunkins in making the announcement at Heifer International in Little Rock.
Farm Credit of Western Arkansas CEO Glen Manchester (left), AgHeritage Farm Credit Services CEO Greg Cole and Arkansas Farm Credit directors visit with Arkansas Senator John Boozman (second from right) at a Washington, D.C. meeting in June.
CEO Glen Manchester (left) and Director Bruce Alford discuss agricultural issues and Farm Credit’s 100-year commitment to rural America with Arkansas Representative Steve Womack (center) at the same Capitol Hill event in June.
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NEW
Fresh & Local Loan Program F
New lending program designed to support non-traditional producers selling direct to consumers
ARM CREDIT IS COMMITTED to being a reliable source of credit for all types of agriculture. This commitment has led to our creation of the Fresh & Local Loan Program that is designed to assist smaller, non-traditional producers who produce protein, vegetables or other agricultural products and sell directly to local consumers. Modified loan standards and quick, local loan approval make this an attractive financing opportunity for small farmers in need of $25,000, or less, with a maximum Farm Credit total loan commitment of $50,000. We anticipate working with people wanting to enter farming as well as existing small farmers who may want funds to expand their operation. Fresh and Local loans are another example of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas’ commitment to enriching rural western Arkansas communities. Farm Credit stands ready to assist small producers as the demand for fresh, local food continues to grow. WHO QUALIFIES: Small producers selling directly to consumers. Protein, produce or products created directly from an agricultural product the producer raises, or grows. Business plan must include a through-put sold to consumers. Examples include, but are in no means limited to: •Honey from personal bee hives •Soap from personal goats •Jams/jellies from personal berries, or orchard •Produce from personal garden/farm LOAN DETAILS: •$25,000 maximum loan amount per borrower, or entity •Available for real estate purchases, improvements, specialty equipment, small tractors, plants, annual operating costs, small buildings, etc.
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•Little or no collateral required (terms and business plan will dictate) •Relaxed credit standards •Little or no down payment, on a case-by-case basis •1 – 3 year loan terms (longer terms as appropriate) •All regular loan payment and collection requirements apply
BENEFITS: Participants become voting members and enjoy all benefits of Farm Credit membership, including Patronage Cash. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact your local Farm Credit of Western Arkansas branch office, or go to myaglender.com.
MEMBERS
Delinda says she’s learned that creative fragrance names are just as important as quality ingredients. Her best sellers include Tropical Lime, Japanese Cherry Blossom, Brown Sugar Fig, White Tea Ginger, Seduction, and even Perfect Man and Southern Gentleman to appeal to her male customers.
Goats, soaps and success A hobby has turned into a thriving business for new Farm Credit member
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HE POPE COUNTY FARMERS Market is a hustling and bustling place on Saturday mornings in Russellville. Among the fruits, vegetables, fresh baked bread and handmade crafts – one specialty item stands out. Goat milk soap. Delinda LaRue is the artisan behind the sought after product line that’s become known for its quality ingredients, unique fragrances and skin-softening properties. LaRue is the owner of Viney Creek Farm in Dover, where she competitively raises Nigerian Dwarf goats. Nigerians are the smallest of the dairy goat breeds and are known for having high butterfat content. According to LaRue, they can have more than twice the
In the spring, Delinda spends as much as two hours a day milking her goats. The milk is frozen, providing her with milk for the soap making process year-around
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Delinda’s relied on research to become an expert in breeding standards, herd health and quality soap making.
butterfat when compared to a cow, which helps create quality soap.
Her first goats
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While LaRue grew up around her grandparents’ farming operation in northwest Arkansas, she wasn’t familiar with goats. Her passion for the breed developed six years ago when she and her partner David decided to purchase a few as pets. It didn’t take long before they were both fascinated by the idea of raising goats, and they learned about the showing process. Later that year, they attended a national goat show in Louisiana, where LaRue said they fell in love with showing. At the end of the show, LaRue purchased a doe kid from a breeder in North Georgia who had done really well in the Louisiana competition. “Today my whole herd basically goes back to that one doe,” LaRue said. Over the past six years, LaRue has grown her operation, Viney Creek
Farm, from the ground up, typically keeping her herd number under 20. She’s also set high standards for her herd, culling and selling the goats that do not meet breed standards. “We competitively breed, so anything that doesn’t fit our standards will go to someone who’s breeding and doesn’t mind that they’re not exactly the right height or that their neck is not quite as long as you want,” she said. “We’re continually trying to improve every generation.”
Learning the trade Without having any previous background knowledge in raising goats, LaRue turned to research for help. Talking to her now, you would think she’s a seasoned goat herdsman. From birthing techniques, mixing feed rations, maintaining herd health and making her own soap - LaRue is an expert. She’s gained her knowledge over just the past six
years, though, much of it through hours of Internet research. “The Internet is an amazing thing. It really is,” said LaRue. “You can teach yourself anything. You can learn anything.” She recalls one kidding season early on where 70 percent of the births would have been catastrophic had they not been there to intervene. “I knew something was wrong, so we did mineral panels,” she said. “We were low on selenium because of fertilizers used on the hay we buy. Now we supplement selenium and haven’t had any problems.” Through committed learning and trial and error, LaRue has built a successful herd.
Knowing her herd The technical knowledge LaRue has of her herd isn’t the only proof of her dedication. When you set foot on her farm, you instantly see the affection she has for every one of
Delinda explains that soap making is basic chemistry. She’s experimented with a variety of ingredients and techniques to perfect her goat soaps and body scrubs. Viney Creek Farm products have a growing customer base. She has state, regional and even international sales from her internet site.
her animals. She bends down to their level and each one happily moves toward her – evidence of the time and attention she gives her herd. LaRue names her goats and enjoys their individual personality traits. Surprisingly, she also recognizes each animal’s unique bleat, or vocalization. Her commitment to her herd extends to the busy kidding season, as well. When a doe is birthing, LaRue doesn’t leave her side. “Most kid without a problem, but when you put as much time, money, hopes and dreams in them as we do, you really need to be there in case something happens,” she said. “We basically camp out with the goats. We stay with them. We don’t leave them.”
two hours a day milking the goats and can spend six to seven hours a day doing chores when she has bottle babies. According to LaRue, a good dairy goat can produce four to five pounds of milk a day, which she freezes to create her soap. Any free time she has is quickly filled with assisting the Pope County Farmers Market and crafting her goat milk soap from scratch. “A batch of soap might take three hours to make,” LaRue said. “I bet
50% of that is set up and tear down. I need a dedicated space for soap making.” Her need to expand her operation’s resources is what ultimately led her to Farm Credit.
Knowing your loan officer LaRue learned about Farm Credit through fellow farmers market vendors. She contacted Jim Taylor, Vice President of Farm Credit’s Russellville branch, and explained her desire
Vice President Jim Taylor in the Russellville office immediately identified Delinda as a candidate for Farm Credit’s new Fresh and Local loan program.
Full hearts and a full schedule Her goats may have started as a hobby, but they quickly became a full time job. During the spring, she spends
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Research and experimentation have led Delinda to tweak her own recipes over the years. She gets to know her customers because she sees many of them regularly at the farmers market. She values customer input and has been known to source special ingredients and new fragrances they suggest. Delinda’s soap-making apron reads, “fragrance and oil hoarding, butter & oil pouring, mold tapping, shrink wrapping, swirl creating, label making, recipe tweaking, mica seeking, Soap Artist”, which she says just about sums up her work as a soap artisan.
to build a larger soap-making facility. “When Delinda described what she needed,” said Vice President and Branch Manager Jim Taylor of the Russellville office, “I immediately thought of our new Fresh and Local loan program that was about to kick off. It’s designed for small producers like her who sell directly to consumers. “I quickly verified that she was a good fit for the new program and learned she’d be the first customer to use it,” he continued. “Her proven business plan and excellent credit allowed me to approve her loan immediately. “I’m normally working with larger scale operations, so I’ve enjoyed learning about her goats and soap making,” he continued. “I, like a number of my coworkers, have quickly become regular customers after trying her soap. It’s that good.” The special, discounted interest rate and quick loan approval process made it an attractive opportunity for LaRue. She says she embraced the opportunity to be the program’s first participant. While LaRue’s strong credit score meant her credit decision was instantaneous, the program allows some flexibility in credit standards since all loans are less than $25,000.
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Loan officers may relax normal credit standards as appropriate, as long as the business plan is solid and the applicant can demonstrate sufficient cash flow. “It was the easiest process ever, really. I came in, filled out a short application, and Jim invited me to drop by and sign the loan papers a few days later. It was so easy,” LaRue said. She said her favorite part about the new loan is the relationships she’s built with Farm Credit employees. Farm Credit prides itself on building valuable working relationships with every member. “I really feel like I’ve made connections that will help our farm, far past this small loan for this immediate project,” she said. “We have other things we want to do with our farm, and we will need more loans and a resource for that. I feel like I can call on Farm Credit whenever I need them.” LaRue also said the program is one she would recommend to other small farmers who need financial assistance. “I would absolutely recommend it! It’s a wonderful program for people who are small farmers just starting out,” she said. “It’s a different alternative than going to the bank and just getting a standard loan. You’re working with people, not a conglomerate.”
Farm to Market It’s not hard to pinpoint what keeps LaRue going, despite hard work and long hours. There’s an immediate excitement heard in her voice and a light in her eyes when talking about the Pope County Farmers Market. Her soap can be purchased from small, local stores and online (mkt. com/viney-creek-farm), but it’s clear her passion lies in personally selling it at the farmers market. “I would rather focus on farmers markets than online sales,” she said. “I do online sales because they’re easy, but in the same breath, I love farmers markets.” She’s also swift to say what fuels her love for participating in the Pope County Farmers Market. When asked what her favorite part is, she quickly exclaims, “The people! No question, I love coming and visiting with the people. Sometimes people will come and talk to me, even if they don’t need soap. They’re just regular customers and enjoy interacting with the community. The people, by far, are my favorite part.”
Growing demand There is growing demand for locally grown food across the state and the Pope County Farmers Mar-
ket is enjoying a significant increase in business this year. While market vendors agree the local food trend has helped, they point specifically to LaRue’s commitment to promoting the market on social media. A $400 Arkansas Agriculture Department Publicity Grant, sponsored by Farm Credit, has assisted the market with advertising promotions this year. LaRue applied for the grant in April on behalf of the market.LaRue says the funds have revamped the market’s social media campaign. Focusing on Facebook and
using weekly ads, posts highlighting their farmers’ products, and targeting specific audiences within a defined radius, LaRue has seen tremendous growth on their page. The market’s Facebook followers have grown from 1,800 to almost 2,700 since early 2016. “Our farmers market has really grown. When I see new faces and I can tell someone hasn’t bought soap before, I’ll ask how they heard about our market,” LaRue said. “And every single Saturday, I’ll have someone say, ‘I saw this really cool ad on Facebook.’ It’s been a game changer for us.”
LaRue said that others on the farmers market board agree that 2016 is the biggest market year they’ve seen yet. As for the future of the market, LaRue hopes it continues to diversify and grow. “My first and foremost love will always be the farmers market. I hope we can become one of the bigger and best markets in Arkansas.” www.vineycreekfarm.com Story and photos by Lindsey Triplett
Farmers Market Week Proclamation Arkansas Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward (far left), Farm Credit representatives, and farmers market leaders (including Farm Credit of Western Arkansas member Delinda LaRue, fourth from right) gathered at the Arkansas state capitol as Governor Asa Hutchinson (center) proclaimed August 7-13, 2016 to be Farmers Market week.
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2016 Farmers Market Promotion Grants Farm Credit sponsored the Arkansas Agriculture Department’s Farmers Market Advertising and Promotion Grant Program in 2016. Grants assist farmers markets from across the state with promoting their market and local products. Grants reimburse participating markets for 75% of their advertising and promotional costs, up to $400. Complete details are on the Arkansas Agriculture Department’s website, aad.arkansas.gov. 21 community markets received grants this year, including: Arkansas County Farmers Market (Arkansas) Arkansas Local Food Network (Pulaski) Bentonville Farmers Market (Benton) Dogtown Farmers Market (Pulaski) Downtown Blytheville Farmers Market (Mississippi) Downtown Newport Farmers Market (Jackson) Fort Smith Farmers Market (Sebastian) Gateway Farmers Market (Miller) Gunn Barn Farmers Market (Cleburne) Harrison Farmers Market (Newton)
Hillcrest Farmers Market (Pulaski) Howard County Farmers Market (Howard) Paragould Farmers Market (Greene) Pope County Farmers Market (Pope) Rogers Farmers Market (Benton) Fayetteville Farmers Market (Washington) Searcy County Farmers Market (Searcy) Siloam Springs Farmers Market (Benton) Springdale Farmers Market (Washington) The Dirty Farmers Market Community Market (Van Buren) White Street Saturday Market (Carroll)
2016 Western Arkansas Photo Contest Cash Prizes in Youth (up to age 18) & Adult Divisions 1st Place - $300 2nd Place - $200 3rd Place - $100 Theme: The things that make rural western Arkansas the best place to live! Time to think about the best photos you’ve been taking around the farm, of the kids or at your favorite community event. Once again, we’re looking for a glimpse at all the things that make rural western Arkansas the best place to live, any season of the year. This year, our contest is open to all amateur photographers in our 41-county western Arkansas territory. Both members and non-members qualify, so tell your friends. Photos must be submitted digitally, online. Complete details at www.myaglender.com. Contest Deadline: Monday, October 31, 2016.
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Cattleman and B
RANDON WREN STEPS OFF his tractor in the misting rain and his foot hits a puddle. Despite constant rain over the past week, he ignores the soggy ground and smiles with an outstretched hand, ready to shake. Wren is a rancher and Farm Credit member in Texarkana, Arkansas where he raises stocker calves. In other words, he buys calves at a low weight and adds value to them by feeding them out until they’re ready for sale at a higher weight. My grandfather has told me my whole life that, “It takes a special kind of person to be a cattle person.” As a retired dairy farmer with 30 years of experience, and raising cattle for almost 60 years, I think he knows what he’s talking about. Another saying he frequently uses is, “Cattle farmers have to wear many hats.” Cattlemen have to be able to predict the weather, and be a good investor, repairman, veterinarian, midwife, and many other titles rolled into one. Wren is no exception. Choosing to raise stockers was an example of Wren wearing his investor hat. Growing up, both of Wren’s grandparents owned cattle. While he knew he wanted to have his own herd, Wren had to decide what would be most profitable for his operation. “For me, on paper it was a little more
rewarding to go with the stocker cattle,” Wren said. “I want the cattle to work for me. I felt like whenever I was working with momma cows, I was working for them.” Wren’s cattle operation choice, however, isn’t what makes him unique compared to other ranchers. According to Texarkana loan officer, Jonathan Shumate, his continual desire to improve is what sets him apart. “The thing about Brandon is, Brandon goes out looking for the answer himself. He tries his best not to learn things the hard way,” Shumate said. “For instance, he’ll go to seminars to learn more about what the market is going to do. A lot of people won’t pay the money to sit in a class to try to learn something.” While he’s humble, Wren admits he’s been to quite a few risk management seminars, saying there’s always something new to learn. He’s even traveled as far as Denver, Colorado to expand his knowledge. But what may make Wren even more unique than his seminar attendance is his willingness to adapt his operation in order to be more profitable. Unlike many cattlemen who stick to a single type of cattle,
Loan Officer Jonathan Shumate jokes that it may be time to replace Wren’s worn out Farm Credit cattle flag.
Wren’s herd is versatile. He’s purchased cattle ranging from 250 to 750 pounds. “You’ve got to be willing to be flexible,” Wren said. “I’m big enough that I can do a lot of stuff, but I’m not so big that I’ve got to stick with one routine.” Wren said that one key to his operation is taking advantage of situations when he’s able to. Thinking back to the drought in 2012 he said, “I was sitting there and the grass was dead, everything was dead, but there was an opportunity to buy calves.” While he may not have been able to graze them during that time, he saw a chance for his ranch to turn the calves into profit by feeding them as
d Businessman Lindsey Triplett, ATU senior agriculture communications major and Farm Credit intern, found truth in her grandfather’s wisdom about cattle farmers when she interviewed Wren.
stockers and selling them. “I said at least I can add value to them instead of sitting here watching the whole place burn up,” he said. Reflective of the smiling man who stepped off the tractor into the rain, Wren added, “Cattlemen are eternally optimistic. We have to be.” Although his adaptability has helped him succeed through the years, it isn’t what Wren credits most of his accomplishments to. His biggest and best secret, according to him, is surrounding himself with good cattlemen. Similar to the saying, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” Wren said he believes that surrounding yourself with others who are proficient in the industry F A R M I N G
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you’re interested in is key to success. While putting $100,000 worth of cattle on a trailer and waiting for your money to come back is a terrifying thought for many people, the honest cattlemen Wren surrounds himself with give him peace of mind. Fortunately, he hasn’t struggled with finding good cattlemen to learn from and do business with. “The cattle industry is still one, for the most part, where all cattlemen are good people,” he said. “It’s still a business that’s done by a handshake, and you honor your word.” One of the good cattlemen Wren said he’s surrounded himself with is current Farm Credit member and board director, Bruce Alford. Wren has been a Farm Credit member for seven years, and said Alford is the one who originally told him about the organization. Wren said his favorite thing about working with Farm Credit is interacting with the people who comprise the company. Each employee has a story of their own, and Wren enjoys learning what makes them passionate about the agriculture industry.
“People come in doing it because they love agriculture,” he said. “Not because it’s just a job. The people making the decisions are agricultural businessmen.” Experienced in the uncertain, Wren said sometimes in agriculture you depend on blind luck and your ability to move forward. “You have to believe it’s going to rain one day. Now we have to say it’s going to quit raining one day,” he said with a chuckle as the rain picked up again. Wren explained that he appreciates that Farm Credit is right there with farmers and ranchers, dealing with the unpredictability of agriculture. “Like I stand behind my cattle because I know they’ll produce, even in a down market,” Wren said. “Farm Credit is like that, they’re there for agriculture even in uncertain economic times.” Story and photos by Lindsey Triplett
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Chris Dall of Ozark poses with one of the two storm shelters he’s purchased. One for his immediate family and one for a close family member. He credits his peace of mind to the fact that Financial Services Specialist Stephanie Reed and Loan Officer Tom White of the Ozark branch let him know that storm shelter financing was available.
Storm Protection L
IKE MANY OF OUR CUSTOMERS, his family’s safety was Chris Dall’s number one concern when he asked Farm Credit for a storm shelter loan. “As a person who’s worked in the forest for many years, I’ve seen tornado damage first hand,” Dall explained. “It was important to protect my family and not just talk about it. The folks at Farm Credit made it happen for me.” Dall learned about the storm shelter loans after refinancing his country home and acreage near Ozark with Farm Credit a few years ago. Farm Credit introduced the special
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low-interest storm shelter loans after a second large tornado hit Vilonia in 2014. Low, fixed rates and quick approval allow customers to move ahead with the purchase and installation of their shelter quickly. Dall explained that the low-interest storm shelter loans were just an added benefit of doing business with Farm Credit. “I was with a different lender for many years, and it pains me now to realize how much I could have saved with Farm Credit,” he said. “If I’d used Farm Credit from the beginning, my place could already be paid for.” Today, he’s proud to show off his
storm shelter and talk about the peace of mind it gives his family. He credits Vice President and Branch Manager Tom White and Financial Services Specialist Stephanie Reed of Ozark with exceptional customer service and with helping him understand everything Farm Credit offers. “Every time I go into Farm Credit, they stop what they’re doing and make me feel right at home,” he said. “The whole process has been really easy, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.” Story and photos by Lindsey Triplett
Serving our communities today, and tomorrow Our commitment goes beyond 100-year celebration
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E’VE BEEN HIGHLIGHTING Farm Credit’s 100-year service to rural America all year. While 2016 included a number of special celebrations to mark our milestone anniversary, service to our local communities is not new. A number of employees and directors are active in their communities and regularly volunteer with local groups and organizations, help with community events and support causes they value. Directors and employees were challenged to personally connect with Farm Credit’s 100-year celebration by giving 100 hours of volunteer
service to their community. The challenge was optional and participants defined volunteer work as they liked.
We’re proud to report that we topped 3,145 volunteer hours! The challenge ran for nine months and ended on July 17 - Farm Credit’s official anniversary date. The community groups benefiting from the challenge were as diverse as our employees and directors. While employees voluntarily recorded hours during the challenge period, their commitment to these organizations has not ceased. We have employees and directors who are regular volunteers and have an on-going commitment to their communities.
Volunteer work included, but was not limited to:
•cooking for fair participants and ag groups •local fair work and leadership •volunteering with rural fire departments •“adopting” deployed service personnel •coaching youth teams •leading local 4-H clubs •serving on state and county 4-H Foundation boards •assisting with FFA programs •serving on fair boards •organizing cattle competitions •assisting youth with fair animals •working at food pantries •promoting pet adoption at animal shelters •assisting with school programs and clubs •volunteering with civic organizations •organizing a local Shop-with-a-Cop event •serving as director of a non-profit group •benefiting people with disabilities •Adopt-a-Highway trash pick-up •participation in Relay for Life events •promoting domestic abuse awareness •community foundation board member •special needs prom volunteer •and more!
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Legacy Members
Celebrating long-term business relationships in our centennial year We continue to celebrate Farm Credit’s milestone 100-year anniversary by identifying members with 25+ and 50+ year business relationships with Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. We proudly continue to serve rural western Arkansas and thank these members for the decades of trust they’ve placed in Farm Credit. If you’ve been a Farm Credit member for more than 25 or 50 years and would like to be recognized as a Legacy Member, simply let your local branch office know. We’d love to visit your home or farm and thank you in person!
For 37 years, Burnie and Barbara Sharp have done business with Farm Credit. It’s now a family affair with Loan Officer Shaun McKamie of the Magnolia office, who is their son-in-law. Brady and Maddox McKamie joined their dad and grandparents for the photo on the Sharp’s broiler and cattle farm.
Jo Ella and Mickey May have been members for more than 50 years and have a broiler and cattle operation. They do business with the Magnolia branch office and are pictured with Financial Services Specialist Milly Lindsey.
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For more than 50 years, Bobby and Joyce Hanson have done business with Farm Credit. They have a broiler and cattle operation and are pictured with Loan Officer Shaun McKamie of the Magnolia branch office.
Paris branch members Allen and Cheryl Johnson with Loan Officer Donna Cunningham. The Johnsons have been members for 25 years and have a broiler operation.
Logan County cattle farmers Bobby and Sharon Blythe have done business with Farm Credit for 45 years. Pictured with Loan Officer Donna Cunningham of the Paris branch office.
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For 32 years, David and Linda Bender of Logan County have done business with Farm Credit. They have a broiler and cattle operation and are pictured with Loan Officer Donna Cunningham.
Loan Officer Donna Cunningham with members Jennifer, Marty Lee, Allison and Max Greb who are broiler and cattle farmers in Logan County. Allison is now a customer, as well.
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Our newest branch offices in Prairie Grove and Huntsville opened this summer. Members and the community are invited to drop by Open House events for complimentary lunch, giveaways and to meet the local staff. These offices and the new Tontitown branch, that opened earlier this year, replace the former Fayetteville office and complete our plan for becoming more conveniently accessible to customers and rural communities across Washington and Madison Counties.
Huntsville Open House
Prairie Grove Open House
Thursday, October 6
Thursday, October 13
11 AM – 3 PM
11 AM – 3 PM
14238 Hwy 412
Dilynn Dodd Assistant Vice President
Jo Upson Financial Services Specialist
1181 East Heritage Parkway
Daniel Keeton Assistant Vice President
Shelly Johnson Financial Services Specialist
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NEWS BRIEFS
Rachel Johnson began work as a Financial Services Specialist in
Bree Bakenhus has been a Financial Services Specialist in De Queen
the Tontitown branch in late May. She and her husband Zack recently moved to northwest Arkansas from Magnolia and she is completing an MBA degree from Southern Arkansas University. Zack works for Tyson Foods and their daughter Zadie is three years old.
since July. Bree is originally from Texas but moved to De Queen two years ago. She has a background in the dental field and her husband Dustin coaches at Horatio High School. Together they enjoy outdoor sports and enjoying time with friends and family.
Ally Herrera joined the De Queen branch staff as part-time Financial
Suzanne Scowden accepted the duties of Financial Services Special-
Services Specialist in early June. Allie is pursuing her associate’s degree at Cossatot U of A and has two daughters, Sophie (age 3) and Niki (age 2).
ist in Fort Smith in early September. Suzanne worked the past five years in school administration for Alma School District. She lives in Alma and has 11-year-old twin daughters named Emmy and Maddie. They enjoy traveling, camping and hiking as a family.
New Faces Cheyenne Anderson joined the Farm Credit team as a part-time
Financial Services Specialist at the Magnolia branch in May. She is a senior at Southern Arkansas University majoring in ag business. She is from Mena and enjoyed showing hogs and participating in 4-H and FFA as a youth. Kristin Cloninger has been named part-time Financial Services
Specialist at the Arkadelphia office. Kristin is a senior at Henderson State University where she’s earning a degree in business and marketing. She lives in Arkadelphia with her husband Brandon.
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2016 STATE FAIR
2016 summer interns (L-R) Hunter Daniel, Caleigh Moyer and Drew Collins.
2016 Summer Interns Summer interns provided valuable support across the association. They had the opportunity to learn about the cooperative way of doing business and the credit lending process. We sincerely thank Caleigh, Drew and Hunter for their work this summer! Caleigh Moyer is a senior at Southern Arkansas University studying ag business. She was raised on a poultry and cattle farm in Prairie Grove and she has served as a past state FFA officer. She was headquartered in the Magnolia branch but worked at many of the south Arkansas offices. Drew Collins is a junior ag business student at Arkansas Tech University. He is originally from the Omaha/ Harrison area and was raised on a poultry and cattle farm. Drew worked much of the summer from the Tontitown and northwest offices. Hunter Daniel is a senior at Arkansas Tech University studying ag business and animal science. Hunter’s family has a cow/calf operation in Pottsville and his summer work took him to a number of branch offices across the central part of our territory.
We are again sponsoring Herdsman Awards for Arkansas State Fair livestock exhibitors. We’ll award $4,200 in prize money across seven categories. Individuals, FFA chapters and 4-H clubs all qualify. Participants are judged on animal appearance, the cleanliness of stalls, how well the participant is observing rules, and more. We join with Farm Credit associations across the state as a significant sponsor of the Arkansas State Fair market sale/ scholarship program and belt buckles.
Farm Credit judge Lindsey Triplett with Kinsley Williams, 2015 Herdsman Award winner in the junior goat category.
FFA and 4-H Officer Dinners Farm Credit has the opportunity each year to congratulate newly-elected FFA and 4-H state officers at a dinner for each group during their respective officer training meetings. Farm Credit hosted the FFA dinner in Hot Springs and the 4-H dinner was held in Little Rock. It’s always a great chance to get to know the incoming leadership teams. 2015 belt buckle winner in showmanship.
2016 Arkansas Oklahoma Farm & Ranch Expo We’re joining forces with Oklahoma AgCredit as major sponsor of the October 28-29 farm show at Kay Rodgers Park in Fort Smith. Free admission and parking. Farming equipment, farming technology and an array of farm-related products and services will be featured in the indoor and outdoor exhibit spaces.
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Enriching rural life. TM
OF WESTERN ARKANSAS
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