Rural Scene
THE
FAITH, TEAMWORK AND SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE FAITH FARM'S SUCCESS.
FAL L 2020
Enriching rural life.TM
Rural Scene
THE
On the Cover
PUBLISHED BY
Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is
Jessi and Matt Debnar are the people behind Faith Farm in Cherry Hill, AR.
In This Issue
a customer-owned financial cooperative
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COVID-19 Update
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Dr. Kohl's Column Mindset: The Competitive Edge
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Director Scene 2020 Director Election
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2020 Scholarship Winners 20 ‒ $1,000 Awards
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Honoring the Son; Harnessing the Sun Faith, sustainability & teamwork
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Community Scene Connecting across western Arkansas
Cooperative Scene Members shared mid-year Patronage Cash
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Western Scene Employee happenings
providing financing and related services to farmers, ranchers, rural homeowners, agribusinesses and timber producers in 41 western Arkansas counties. With a loan volume of $1.5 billion, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is a member of the 104-year-old Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of borrower-owned lending institutions providing more than $217 billion in loans to rural America.
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Office Locations and Loan Officers Arkadelphia 2858 Walnut (870) 246–8061 Rachael Godwin, David Smith
Greenbrier 89C N Broadview St. (501) 679–5464 Josh Dunlap
Ozark 1808 Farm Credit Dr. (479) 667–3855 Tom White
Benton 15227 1-30 South (501) 860–6391 Kevin Barham
Harrison 129 W Industrial Park Rd. (870) 741–2020 Brad Matlock, Brady Willis
Paris 3772 W Hwy 22 (479) 963–2841 Donna Griffin
Bentonville 3600 SW Regional Airport Blvd. Suite 16 (479) 273–3311 Darla Larson, Dilynn Dodd
Hope 1722 E 3rd St. (870) 777–6704 Jerry Nance, Clay Lance
Prairie Grove 1181 E Heritage Pkwy (Hwy 62) (479) 400–6160 Daniel Keeton, Catherine Goodwin
Huntsville 14238 Hwy 412 (479) 738–6622 Trey Villines
Russellville 2797 E Parkway (479) 968–5030 Jim Taylor, Anna Lester
Magnolia 1703 Pittman St. (870) 234–8611 Darren Neal
Siloam Springs 4970 Hwy 412 East (479) 524–6754 Savannah Dickinson
Mena 1607 Hwy 71 North (479) 394–1027 Rex Dollar
Texarkana 2305 Trinity Blvd. (870) 772–1882 Jonathan Shumate, Jennifer Hooper, Rustin Watson
Clarksville 1007 Interstate Dr. (479) 754–2876 Anna Lester, Sherry Boen Danville 302 E 5th St. (479) 495–2711 Lora Briggs De Queen 800 E Magnolia Ave. (870) 584–3113 Jordan Icenhower Fort Smith 12907 Hwy 71 South (479) 434–4040 Andrea Leding, James Crabtree
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Glenwood 131 Hwy 70 East (870) 356–2023 Adam Baker
Morrilton 1329 Hwy 9 (501) 354–2377 Hank DeSalvo Nashville 302 W Bishop (870) 845–2221 Denise Sweat
Tontitown 1091 W Henri De Tonti Blvd. (479) 717–6740 Misty Eastep Waldron 502 Frankie Matthew Dr. (479) 637–2087 Rex Dollar
Letter from the CEO
Board of Directors This has certainly been an interesting year. Aside from COVID-19 and election news headlines, it’s been an extremely busy and productive year for Western Arkansas. We are witnessing record growth and superb financial ratios and managing to accomplish this with many of our staff having to work remotely and disjointed from their regular work environment.
Chair Kenny Brixey, Casa Vice Chair Bob Dixon, Havana Steve Burke, Washington Renny Chesshir, Alma Chuck Davis, Ashdown Pam Faulkner-Moore, Casa Dusty Hampton, Russellville Kim Hogan, Ozark Ron Hubbard, London
We were fortunate that the year started off strong and that influenced our decision to release, for the first time ever, a mid-year patronage. Management Brandon Haberer and the board viewed our mid-year patronage as a small stimulus package for members at a time when they potentially needed it most. Government stimulus packages and programs like the Paycheck Protection Program weren’t fully addressing the needs of some western Arkansas ag sectors.
Cody Jones, Mansfield
Thanks to COVID-19, we’ve become accustomed to decision making in a rapidly changing environment. I am extremely proud of employees and management for rising to the occasion and not just getting by, but turning this into a record-setting year. I appreciate the board meeting frequently early on, with short notice, to approve necessary measures allowing the association to adjust to various hurdles thrown our way due to the pandemic.
About the Rural Scene
We have learned a lot over the past few months. A big take-away for me is that we can’t just prepare, we have to do things to ensure we’re able to excel during future unforeseen business disruptions. We have learned that with technology we have the capacity to work effectively remotely. We’ll continue to focus on technology in the coming months and years with a goal of becoming more fully automated, especially with loan requests and servicing. Hopefully this approach will reach customers who prefer to handle their business electronically while, at the same time, we continue to emphasize our growing branch structure and the value of face-to-face relationship lending. I want to finish by thanking members for keeping the lending requests coming and for being patient. Patient as we’ve adjusted to having (temporarily) closed lobbies and a work environment that was foreign to us just a few months ago. Sincerely,
Brandon Haberer President and CEO
Bill Linton, Dover Julie Lively, Fulton Kenny Martin, De Queen Gene Pharr, Lincoln Mark Wilcox, Greenbrier President and CEO Brandon Haberer
The Rural Scene is produced for members and friends of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. Address comments and story ideas to Editor, The Rural Scene Farm Credit of Western Arkansas 3115 W. 2nd Court • Russellville, AR 72801 Editor Jill Robertson Jill.Robertson@myaglender.com Contributing Writer and Photographer Lindsey Holtzclaw Lindsey.Holtzclaw@myaglender.com myaglender.com Article quotes have been edited for content and appropriateness.
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Member of the Cooperative Communicators Association. © 2020 Farm Credit of Western Arkansas.
Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.
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DIRE C TO R SC E N E
Letter from the Board Chair COVID-19 Update
Kenny Brixey
Like the rest of the world, in mid-March the Board of Directors and Senior Management Team learned just how quickly things can change in the face of a sweeping pandemic. I’m proud of our association’s responsiveness and how employees continue to manage business in light of COVID-19.
A majority of directors and management happened to be together at a national director/management meeting when we first heard of COVID-19 and resulting dramatic interest rate drop. Senior management met immediately to formalize plans to help members access the historically low rates. Employees have been busy refinancing and restructuring existing loans and making an impressive number of new loans. Members have benefited by saving thousands of dollars. Our goal, as always, is to benefit members, remain competitive in the marketplace and protect the association’s capital. We’ve accomplished all this and set the stage for record-setting new loan growth this year. SO, HOW HAS COVID-19 IMPACTED OUR ASSOCIATION AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOU AS A MEMBER? Lobbies remain closed for the time being. We continue to closely monitor the situation and management has been following the direction of state officials and the CDC regarding safe business practices. Lobbies will reopen as appropriate in each of our 25 western Arkansas locations. IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL, AND BUSINESS IS GOOD. COVID-19 led us to implement our Business Continuity Plan in March. The plan is required by regulators and is something we review annually. The plan assures all avenues of business are managed when there’s a significant business disruption. The association transitioned seamlessly to remote service in a number of areas. The Senior Management Team and Board of Directors worked with our regulator, The Farm Credit Administration, to re-evaluate business operations and access credit and lending processes.
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The association is fortunate that CEO Brandon Haberer has made upgrading technology across the association a priority since assuming his leadership role in February of last year. The foresight
Watch myaglender.com for the latest updates.
that he, senior management and the Board of Directors had in upgrading technology, equipment and electronic commerce and lending procedures enabled employees to transition very easily to serving customers online and remotely. That commitment to upgrading technology meant the association was extremely well positioned for dealing with the pandemic. That was fortunate because the crisis also spurred historically low interest rates that have driven record-setting business in all of our branch offices. Not only have employees adapted, but they’re busier than ever! ASSISTING MEMBERS IMPACTED BY COVID-19 Knowing there’d be members financially impacted by the crisis, we introduced the COVID-19 Special Loan Servicing Program in late March. Applications were accepted through September 30 and allowed eligible members to defer payments for 90 days. Deferred amounts were rolled into remaining loan payments. We’ve supported COVID-19 relief efforts implemented by Congress through the Small Business Administration. When Congress announced the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) programs, we immediately worked to gain accepted-lender status and process applications for members. LONG-TERM IMPACT ON THE ASSOCIATION While senior management and the Board of Directors have prepared for business impacts, the impact remains negligible. Loan delinquencies are low and credit quality remains strong. It was advantageous that Farm Credit of Western Arkansas went into the crisis with exceptional credit quality (ranked second in the AgriBank district). COVID-19 has been challenging for everyone. First and foremost, our concern rests with members who have been impacted by the crisis. This situation is not one that anyone wants to experience again. With that being said, please know that our association is in the hands of strong leaders and dedicated employees who make your financial needs their priority.
Kenny Brixey
Chair, Board of Directors Farm Credit of Western Arkansas
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DIRE C TO R SC E N E
National Farm Credit Scene
Connecting with Legislators — VIRTUALLY! Farm Credit values the relationships it has built with policymakers in Washington, D.C. We’re fortunate that Senator John Boozman via video conference call from his D.C. office. Arkansas Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton and Representatives Rick Crawford, Bruce Westerman, Steve Womack and French Hill understand agriculture and promote Arkansas agriculture interests. Normally, a select group of directors, senior managers and CEO Brandon Haberer join fellow Arkansas Farm Credit associations in hosting an annual breakfast meeting on Capitol Hill for Arkansas legislators in July. COVID precluded that plan this year. Scott Sullivan, legislative liaison for the Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas, instead organized a series of Webex video conference calls with the six legislators. Farm Credit shared short customer videos highlighting concerns the group wanted to bring to the attention of legislators and their staff members. In turn, the congressmen provided insight and updates regarding timely ag issues. While this year’s meeting may have taken on a new look, it was successful in connecting Farm Credit with D.C. policymakers in a meaningful way. Senator Tom Cotton, Congressman Rick Crawford, CEO Brandon Haberer, Western Arkansas member Bruce Alford, Farm Credit Midsouth member Gary Sitzer and Congressman Bruce Westerman discuss Arkansas ag issues via a video call early this fall.
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● Bentonville
Madison Newton
Franklin
Crawford
Searcy
Johnson
Van Buren
● Ozark
Pope
● Clarksville ● Fort Smith
Conway
Russellville
Logan Sebastian
• If multiple people are on a loan, check the envelope containing the ballot information to verify the voting stockholder’s name.
• Ballots must be received by 4:30 PM on November 19. • Review candidate information, complete ballot, and return in postage-paid envelope provided. • Results announced November 20 and posted • Voting stockholders are responsible for electing directors and nominating committee members annually.
● Huntsville
Washington
● Prairie Grove
Ballots will arrive in your mailbox. Voting is your right and responsibility as a cooperative member. • Director candidate information and ballots will mail in mid-October. Ballots will be addressed to voting stockholders as of date of record — September 30, 2020.
Baxter
Marion
● Harrison
● Tonitown
Faulkner
● Paris Yell
● Danville
Perry
● Waldron Scott Saline Polk
Garland
Montgomery
● Mena
Pike
● De Queen Sevier
● Benton
Hot Spring
● Glenwood
Howard
Grant
● Arkadelphia
● Nashville
Clark
Dallas
Hempstead Nevada
Little River
at all branch offices and at myaglender.com. Postcards will be mailed to members.
● Greenbrier
● Morrilton
DIRE C TO R SC E N E
2020 Annual Director Election
Siloam Springs ●
Boone
Carroll
Benton
● Hope
Ouachita
Calhoun
● Texarkana Columbia
Miller
● Magnolia
Union
Lafayette
Your vote also supports Arkansas Youth! You vote, and Arkansas FFA and 4-H benefit! For every eligible ballot received, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas will donate $10. Funds will be split evenly between the Arkansas FFA Foundation and the Arkansas 4-H Foundation.
2020 Director Candidates Listed Alphabetically (All positions are a four-year term.)
AREA 2
Maxel "Todd" Durning Franklin Stephen "Steve" Wayne Young Franklin
AREA 4
Kenneth "Kenny" Brixey Perry Matthew "Matt" J. Simon Faulkner
AREA 6
Deborah Lee Bailey Sevier Kenneth W. Martin, D.V.M. Sevier
2020 Nominees For Association Nominating Committee (All areas for a one-year term.)
AREA 1A
Johnny L. Gunsaulis • Benton William "Will" P. Lane • Benton
AREA 4A
Ronnie D. Hall, Sr. • Faulkner Jerry L. Hartwick • Faulkner
AREA 1B
John W. Calhoon, Jr. • Washington Ronnie T. Horn • Washington
AREA 4B
James W. Mann • Perry Fred Nutt • Perry
AREA 2A
Justin "Taylor" Gattis • Franklin Ernest J. "EJ" Neissl • Franklin
AREA 5A
Rainna K. Ghormley • Hempstead Randy W. Peck • Hempstead
AREA 2B
James A. Ford • Franklin Mary "Jeana" Sing • Franklin
AREA 5B
Danielle M. Kitchens • Howard Gabrielle Williams • Garland
AREA 3A
Shawn A. Ezell • Logan Allen L. Johnson • Logan
AREA 6A
Jonathan "Johnny" Dooley • Sevier Robert "Hunter" Lipsey • Sevier
AREA 3B
Casey T. Cotton • Logan Gerald W. Strobel • Logan
AREA 6B
Monte K. Davis • Sevier Jacob Hooper • Sevier
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M E M B E R SC E N E
Honoring the Son ; HARNESSING THE SUN Faith, teamwork and sustainability drive Faith Farm's Success.
Matt and Jessi Debnar are the people behind Faith Farm in Cherry Hill, AR. They’re a team and they do it all. Managing the 115-acre farming operation that includes five production broiler houses, 50 head of cattle and a custom hay business is no small task. In addition, they’re committed to sustainability. Matt and Jessi are quick to correlate their commitment to sustainable practices with their faith. “Everything we have belongs to God,” Jessi shared. “So we work hard to honor Him in how we take care of it.”
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The Debnars' herd of Braunvieh and Braford cattle.
M E M B E R SC E N E
Why solar? A solar array to power one poultry house and the Debnars' home is the most recent addition to the farm. The couple’s other four poultry houses still operate on traditional electricity. While solar applications for agriculture have existed since the 1970s, the Debnars are the first Polk County farm to make the change according to Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative. “Rich Mountain Electric Co-op has been very supportive,” Matt says. “They understand poultry grower needs and are the first to check on the farm when the electricity goes out.” “As a farmer, you can just add a zero to all your bills,” Matt smiled. “Sometimes two zeros.”
Matt Debnar working on solar panels.
“It’s about continually looking for ways to save money.” Matt researched solar energy and became committed to the idea after meeting a designer with Seal Solar at a poultry registration meeting. The designer explained solar options in detail, including annual energy savings. “We’re starting with one solar array on one poultry house, but we’re open to adding it to additional houses in the future. This first array powers one poultry house and our home,” he continued. The 110-foot solar array sits adjacent to their first poultry house, next to the generator. The weight of the panels precludes installation on the roof of the poultry house. The array is sized
in proportion to their annual energy usage with the goal of zero net energy cost. The solar energy produced is equal to the energy needed by the poultry house and home in one year. The way Matt looks at it, energy savings, a USDA grant and tax savings mean the solar array will pay for itself in three years. While a lower electric bill is important, Matt says lessening the farm’s carbon footprint is also a motivator. An app on Matt’s phone allows him to track energy produced and how CO2 emissions prevented through the use of solar energy equate to trees planted. Since June, the solar energy produced at Faith Farm equates with 127 trees being planted.
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M E M B E R SC E N E
With solar energy, the Debnars saw a 95% savings in their August electric bill compared to the same month last year.
While the solar array has only been in use since early summer, Matt is confident they will be able to easily meet their goal of eliminating an energy bill for the one poultry house and home. He holds out two electric bills to confirm an already dramatic cost savings. Their August electric bill was $21.81, while it was $464.31 last August. A 95% savings for that one-month comparison.
“Matt’s always thinking ahead about what we should be doing and researching how to do it,” Jessi shared. “And I’m the one who pinches the pennies so we can do it,” she laughed. “Jessi is the one with twenty years of farm experience,” Matt added. “She’s the farm manager and has the finance and budgeting knowledge we rely on.”
Jessi is quick to compliment Matt’s commitment to research and planning and said he’s the one that comes up with the big ideas. Jessi manages poultry operations and Matt manages the cattle.
Matt and Jessi approach most farm chores as a team.
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M E M B E R SC E N E
The Debnars grow broilers for Tyson.
Braunvieh cattle are known for their gentleness.
A Solid Partnership Jessi may joke about pinching pennies, but it’s obvious the pair is well-suited for their farming partnership. Jessi began farming in 2000. She purchased her first 35 acres with the dream of poultry farming. As a newly single mother, she wanted a way to earn income while also being home with her two children. Jessi’s parents own poultry houses, so it was familiar to her. Jessi ran her poultry operation alone until marrying Matt in 2008. Matt had moved to Arkansas in 2006 from Alaska and the couple met on a blind date. Living most of his life in Anchorage, he moved his two children and mother to the Mena area to be near family. He and his mother purchased land and he began working for U.S. Motors. He has a background in carpentry and a diesel mechanic diploma.
Once married, the couple purchased additional land and added four more poultry houses over time. Once Matt began working full-time on the farm alongside Jessi, the couple recognized how their strengths complement one another. Jessi’s least favorite thing about running the farm alone was dealing with machinery and equipment break downs. Matt is a diesel mechanic. Jessi wanted the farm to grow. Matt saw an opportunity to diversify into cattle and had a vision for raising a unique breed. Jessi wanted a partner on the farm. Matt learned he loved farming. The couple says adding cattle to their business plan came about the same way all their decisions are made. “Like everything, we prayed about it,” explained Matt. 11
M E M B E R SC E N E
Jessi had a Jersey milk cow that needed a bottle calf. They found a bottle calf for sale but questioned the price. Matt set about researching the breed and what he learned convinced him that not only was the price for the bottle calf reasonable, but that the breed was advantageous. That was the start of their registered Braunvieh herd. Braunvieh literally means “brown cow” in German. The breed is known for its gentleness, maternal traits and meat quality. The breed dates to 800 B.C. and hair color varies from light brown with gray to dark brown.
The Debnars talking with Vice President and Branch Manager Rex Dollar.
Matt uses an app to monitor solar energy production on the farm.
“I’ve heard the breed explained as having the milk of a Jersey and meat of an Angus,” Matt explained. In addition to registered Braunvieh, their herd includes some tiger stripe Brafords.
Farm Credit’s Role “Matt and Jessi don’t do anything without thinking it through and having a plan,” explained Vice President and Branch Manager Rex Dollar of the Mena office. Farm Credit was able to finance the solar array because the Debnars are full-time farmers. While still a unique loan request in western Arkansas, Matt’s research and the couple’s management history made the loan decision an easy one. “They are great managers and have proven themselves time and again,” Rex shared. “They’re very much a team and that sets them apart. When there’s business to discuss, they’re both in my office. They’re always prepared and have a well thought out plan,” he continued. 12
Matt shows the solar array to Rex Dollar.
M E M B E R SC E N E
Braunvieh cows
Jessi and Matt working cattle.
“I appreciate that I can just pick up the phone and let Rex or Heather know what we need,” added Jessi. Financial Services Specialist Heather Walston in Mena assists the Debnars regularly with loan needs.
Shared Values Contribute to Success Raised in Alaska, Matt says farming in Arkansas was the last thing he ever thought he’d do. He attributes landing in Mena and meeting Jessi to God’s plan. Jessi smiles and reaches for his hand in agreement.
“I didn’t know the first thing about farming or cattle or humidity,” he chuckled. He reiterated that at the end of the day it all belongs to God and he simply wants to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matt also explained that he was surprised to realize there’s always more that needs to be done on the farm. More accurately, things are never done on the farm. Farmers everywhere are nodding in agreement. But getting it done is what Matt and Jessi are doing daily. Together, they continue to build Faith Farm on teamwork and shared faith. Story and photos by Jill Robertson
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R E F E R R A L R EWAR D S PR OG R AM
Thank you for spreading the word about Farm Credit! 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 advertising. Do you know someone who might benefit from Farm Credit's advantages?
• Long-term, fixed interest rates & 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.
Refer as many people as you like... you’ll be helping your Farm Credit grow!
• Patronage Cash. Members share in the profits when the association has a good year. • Local service from folks you can trust. • Employees who understand agriculture and are involved in your local community.
How It Works
1. Encourage a friend to talk to Farm Credit about their financing needs.
It's simple.
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.
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Soft-sided Cooler
Arkansas Shaped Cutting Board
Tervis Tumbler
to do business with Farm Credit Unprecedented times call for unprecedented actions. The association surprised members with $5,000,000 in Patronage Cash at mid-year! In June, with the global COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, the Board of Directors and Senior Management Team decided to put Patronage Cash in members’ hands when they may have needed it most.
Voluntary Membership Democratic Member Control Members’ Economic Participation Autonomy and Independence Education, Training, and Information Cooperation Among Cooperatives Concern for Community
Members' Economic Participation Members contribute equally to, and democratically control, the capital of the cooperative. This benefits members in proportion to the business they conduct with the cooperative rather than on the capital invested.
Members received their share of the first half of 2020 profits eight months early in the form of a $5 MILLION Farm Credit mini-stimulus plan. Members’ share of the second half of 2020 profits will be distributed in the normal February 2021 timeframe. Checks were mailed. While COVID meant we couldn’t celebrate with members, we like to think 6,300 individual celebrations took place across western Arkansas as members opened their mailboxes to find an unexpected patronage check. Another reminder to members that we’re thinking of them during this challenging time.
C O O P E RAT IVE SC E N E
Another $5 MILLION Reasons
7 Cooperative Principles
KOHL
-laborations
Commentary, wisdom, and perspectives from globally renowned agricultural economist, Dr. David M. Kohl.
Mindset:
The Competitive Edge At a recent conference, I had an engaging and enjoyable lunch with a large animal veterinarian in his eighth decade of life. Similar to many other large animal veterinarians who provide services to our family dairy, his opinions are based off many facets of life and experiences from interacting with agriculture producers. However, he did strike a chord when discussing what he observed his successful customers did over the decades. The theme of our conversation was mindset and attitude. Recently, I also had the pleasure of engaging with a group of agricultural leaders representing all facets of the agriculture industry from production to agribusiness, education, and policy. What mindsets did these individuals bring to the table to be successful?
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One such mindset was that agricultural leaders need to be more transparent with the consumer, the public, and the general economy connecting with the agriculture industry. As the general public in the U.S. and abroad become more distant from the agriculture industry, transparency will
be increasingly important and challenging. Recent lawsuits against the agriculture industry by non-governmental organizations is only in its infancy. While connecting to those outside of agriculture is a challenge, it is also an opportunity for those that have the skills and can articulate and play an educational role in connecting with the majority of the population who are disconnected with agriculture. Participating in groups and making your voice heard by using technology and engaging with youth such as 4-H, FFA, and other leadership groups will be necessary with the public, government, and in all areas of life. A critical mindset will be to educate yourself on better ways to run the business. Complacency and getting into a rut are killer mindsets in business. Adaptability, embracing change, and more collaboration with individuals with a positive, but inquisitive attitude will be critical. One young person had a great quote, “No one ever lost money listening to an idea!�
A mindset of focus and commitment will not be an option, but a requirement. A three-step process outlined by a young conference attendee provided a capsule slogan: preparation, execution, and follow through. This threestep process works for professional athletic coaches, teachers, agribusinesses, and agricultural producers. A focus on knowing one's numbers, whether it is production, marketing, risk management, or finance will be key. Developing your system and skill base while aligning your products or services to the market will be a baseline for success. Having a proactive attitude to execute the plan, realizing “base hits” with occasional “home runs” in profit expectations, may be the call to order. Finally, being able to follow through and monitor outcomes with an objective mindset, rather than an emotional mindset, can keep the business and personal finances out of the ditch. In a world that has a surprise around every corner, the young leaders were utilizing advisory groups including their agricultural lender as a sounding board and networking team.
A final mindset that permeated amongst the group was to think globally, act locally. Awareness of global trends and positioning your business and personal life to take advantage of opportunities to build a financial fortress for challenges that will occur will be critical. Being careful not to place all your bets on the next big thing or the next commodity economic super cycle and playing the game of life within realities, while not glamorous, can be a long-term sustainable plan. In other words, think steady like a turtle rather than quick like a rabbit. Life is not a sprint, but a marathon. Mindset and attitude are difference makers, which the older large animal veterinarian whom I met with suggested. Maintaining a strong network of people who are collaborative and can critically think will be the seed and fertilizer needed for your business and life.
Dr. Kohl is Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Finance and Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
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$320,000 in scholarships awarded since 1998
$1,000 Scholarships
Cory Ault Casa, AR College of the Ozarks Pre-Vet
Awarded to 20 Area Students Farm Credit of Western Arkansas awarded $20,000 in academic scholarships to some of western Arkansas’ most talented young people again this spring. Academic performance, school and community leadership, extracurricular activities, and agricultural interests were considered as a panel of independent judges from outside Farm Credit of Western Arkansas’ service territory selected this year’s recipients. Some were raised on farms and have future career aspirations that include farming or the rural lifestyle. Others value agriculture but are following less agricultural career paths. All have proven themselves as leaders among their peers and in their communities. Congratulations on your proven accomplishments. Thank you to all who applied. 2021 scholarship program details will be posted at myaglender.com after January 1.
Colin Keady Alma, AR U of A Fayetteville Political Science/Ag Leadership
Kade Mitchell Lincoln, AR Arkansas Tech University Wildlife Management /Environmental Science
Cory Schluterman 18
Subiaco, AR ATU Ozark AC & Refrigeration
Kelsea Beasley
Malli Dooly
Elizabeth Durning
Kyleen Hewitt
Hope, AR U of A Hope Ag Education
Emerson, AR Southern Arkansas University Animal Science/Pre-Vet
Ozark, AR Arkansas Tech University Biomedical
Fouke, AR Southern Arkansas University Ag Business
Victoria Lehmann
Taylor Looper
Rebecca Mann
Jana Milam
Scotland, AR U of A Fayetteville Animal Science/Pre-Vet
Greenwood, AR U of A Fayetteville Animal Science
Bigelow, AR UACCM Nursing
El Dorado, AR Ouachita Baptist University Nursing
Keely Plyler
Madison Price
Austin Rowland
A.J. Russell
Hope, AR Southern Arkansas University Ag Business
Charleston, AR U of A Fayetteville Ag Business
Mount Ida, AR U of A Fayetteville Ag Education/Animal Science
Greenwood, AR Eastern Oklahoma State College AG/Stocker Management
Allee Sweeten
Jacob Tapley
Brody Webb
Brooke Zimmerman
Gentry, AR Arkansas Tech University Ag Education
Greenbrier, AR Southern Arkansas University Ag Education
Mena, AR U of A Rich Mountain Ag Business
Hattieville, AR U of A Fayetteville Communications Sciences & Disorders
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C O M M U N IT Y SC E N E
$1,000 FFA Scholarship Winners Awards provided by Farm Credit of Western Arkansas and administered and selected by Arkansas FFA. Dominic Pizzimenti, Mountain Home FFA Chapter Ainsley Purifoy, Camden-Fairview FFA Chapter
$1,000 Adam McClung Scholarship Winners Awards provided by The Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas, administered by The Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association and selected by a scholarship committee chaired by Chantel McClung. Victoria Lehmann graduated from Nemo Vista High School and plans to study animal science at the University of Arkansas. Carson White graduated from Rosebud High School and plans to study animal science at Connors State College.
Meals for Lineman Our Nashville branch helped feed 115 Southwestern Electric Power Company and Southwest Arkansas Electric REA linemen in the Nashville and De Queen area after severe weather in May. Local linemen were working around the clock to restore power to the area. The meals were a small token of appreciation for the hard work these essential workers were doing. *Due to safety concerns, our employees followed social distancing guidelines and the meals were delivered to the crew chief and then distributed to workers.
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Secure & Convenient Online Banking Download the new app and start using it beginning October 13. Currently using the online banking app? Or been thinking about it?
App Name: Our new online banking app is available October 13 and will improve 24/7 access to your account information. The new format is more intuitive, improving user experience.
FARM CREDIT WESTERN ARK
apple
GOOGLE-PLAY
DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP: Available in the app store for Apple and android devices. On or after Oct. 13, existing users should delete the old app and install the new one.
Why did we upgrade the online banking app? Security is our number-one priority. Security is continually evolving and upgrades provide improved security.
Questions? We're here to help. Call 479-968-1434 (M - F 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)
What's New...
What's Different...
• Added layers of security • Updated navigation and intuitive language improves the user experience
• After October 13, the cut-off time for scheduling payments changes from 5:00 PM to 4:30 PM • Users may now opt for TEXT banking • While automatic payments scheduled in the previous system will transfer automatically, any payment set up as a recurring billed amount payment may not appear on your online account. Call your local branch or the number below, if questions.
ENROLLING IN ONLINE BANKING WITH THE NEW APP: Current Users: 1. Use your existing USER NAME and PASSWORD 2. Reset your three security questions New Users: 1. Have a recent statement or account information handy when you enroll, you’ll be asked to verify social security/tax id, customer number, birthdate, loan number and approximate account balance tied to the account. 2. Click the ENROLL button and follow on screen directions. Detailed enrollment guides can be found at https://www.myaglender.com/memberbenefits/Pages/OnlineBanking.aspx 3. IMPORTANT: If you’re linking your Farm Credit account to a checking account to make online payments, allow 1-3 days for pre-certification of checking account information.
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W E ST E RN SC E N E
New Faces CANDACE REED joined the Farm Credit team in April as Financial Services Specialist in Danville. She has an ag education degree from Arkansas Tech University and most recently worked as a Land Resource Specialist with the Natural Resources Division of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. Originally from Perryville, she and husband Cody continue to live on her family’s Perryville farm and they spend their free time helping with the family’s commercial cow/calf operation.
BRADY WILLIS began his role as Loan Officer in the Harrison branch office on May 1. He earned a business degree from The University of Central Arkansas in 2018 and he lives in Searcy County. Brady is no stranger to agriculture. His family raises cattle and he was raised working on the farm. He continues to help with the family farm and has his own herd, as well. Brady enjoys hunting, fishing, and playing basketball in his free time.
DARREN NEAL was named Loan Officer for the Magnolia branch office in May. He has extensive cattle experience and he and his wife Kristi own and operate their own pullet houses. In addition, he spent the past three years in ag financing with another lender. Darren earned an ag business and economics degree from Arkansas State University, served in the Army and is retired from the Arkansas State Police. He and Kristi have two children – Emily is at SAU and Carter is a senior at Prescott High School.
CALEIGH MOYER accepted the position of Credit Trainee on June 1 and works in the Magnolia branch office. She is not new to Farm Credit. She began her Farm Credit experience as a summer intern in 2016. She earned an ag business degree in 2017 and an MBA in 2019 – both from Southern Arkansas University. She served as Director of Communications and Marketing for SAU before coming to Farm Credit. Originally from Lincoln, she lives in Magnolia and enjoys cooking and woodworking.
RACHEL WEBB joined the Farm Credit team as a Financial Services Specialist in the Hope office on July 1. Rachel is no stranger to Farm Credit as she and her parents have been customers. She lives in Prescott where she enjoys raising cattle and enjoying the Little Missouri River with friends.
BAXTER WALLIS transitioned from an intern to a full-time Credit Trainee after graduating from Arkansas Tech University with an Ag Business degree in May. Baxter worked as a summer intern in 2019 and continued to work part-time during his last year of college. Baxter lives in Dover and works in the Russellville branch office.
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CHEYENNE ANDERSON has transitioned from Financial Services Specialist to Credit Analyst and works in the Texarkana branch office.
MORGAN WHITE has moved into the position of Financial Services Specialist II and works in the Arkadelphia branch.
ERIC BIRKNER is the newest member of the Capital Markets team, serving as an analyst. He moved into the new position after having worked as a Credit Analyst and he will continue to work from the Morrilton branch office.
BREANA BREWER'S duties as Credit Analyst have been expanded and she now has the title of Portfolio Monitoring Analyst. She continues to work in the Central Office in Russellville.
W E ST E RN SC E N E
Changing Places
Summer Interns DAWSYN SMITH worked in the southern branch offices as an intern this summer. She is a junior at Southern Arkansas University and studies ag business. She’s originally from Newport, AR.
TYLER PETERS of Piggott, AR served as an intern for the River Valley branch offices this summer. He graduated from Arkansas Tech University in May, 2020 with an ag business degree. (No photo available.) 23
3115 W. 2nd Court Russellville, AR 72801
Enriching rural life.
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Let Farm Credit’s industry-leading knowledge, competitive products, and more than 104 years of agricultural and rural financing experience help you. • Farms of all sizes • Livestock • Country home and home construction • Land
• Recreational land • Timber tracts • Forestry products and processing
Travel may be challenging this year, but we would still love to see where your Farm Credit t-shirt takes you!
Tom and Pam Schluterman (left) and Martin and Barbara Schluterman’s t-shirts made the trip with them to Yellowstone National Park this summer. Tom and Martin are brothers and both couples are Farm Credit members in the Paris, AR area.
Share a photo of your t-shirt’s adventure! Email a photo to jill.robertson@myaglender.com, OR text to 479-567-4548.
