Rural Scene
THE
PERSEVERANCE AND A COMMITTED LENDING PARTNER CAN HELP SAVE THE FARM.
SUMMER 2021
Enriching rural life.TM
Rural Scene
THE
PUBLISHED BY
Farm Credit of Western Arkansas is a customer-owned financial cooperative providing financing and related services to farmers, ranchers, rural homeowners, agribusinesses and
ON THE COVER
timber producers in 41 western Arkansas counties.
Darren Neal and Milly Lindsey with JC Marks on the farm he fought six years to save.
Arkansas is a member of the 105-year-old Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of borrower-owned lending institutions
IN THIS ISSUE
providing more than $317 billion in loans to rural America.
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COVID-19 Update Our lobbies are re-opening June 1!
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Director Scene 2021 Director Nominations
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Never Give Up! Persistence paid off for JC Marks of Camden
12 16 18
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Passion for Agriculture Steve and Brenda Ackerman’s ag adventure Cooperative Scene $11.2 M in Patronage Cash
Dr. David Kohl’s economic insight
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Community Scene Supporting our local communities
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Western Scene Employee happenings
OFFICE LOCATIONS AND LOAN OFFICERS
With a loan volume of $1.5 billion, Farm Credit of Western Arkadelphia 2858 Walnut (870) 246–8061 Rachael Godwin, David Smith
Mena 1607 Hwy 71 North (479) 394–1027 Rex Dollar
Benton 15227 1-30 South (501) 860–6391 Kevin Barham
Morrilton 1329 Hwy 9 (501) 354–2377 Hank DeSalvo
Bentonville 3600 SW Regional Airport Blvd. Suite 16 (479) 273–3311 Darla Larson, Dilynn Dodd
Nashville 302 W Bishop (870) 845–2221 Denise Sweat
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, Joyce Ridenour, Paul Bennett Glenwood 131 Hwy 70 East (870) 356–2023 Adam Baker Greenbrier 89C N Broadview St. (501) 679–5464 Josh Dunlap Harrison 129 W Industrial Park Rd. (870) 741–2020 Brad Matlock, Brady Willis Hope 1722 E 3rd St. (870) 777–6704 Jerry Nance, Clay Lance, Darren Neal Huntsville 14238 Hwy 412 (479) 738–6622 Trey Villines Magnolia 1703 Pittman St. (870) 234–8611 Jonathan Shumate
Ozark 1808 Farm Credit Dr. (479) 667–3855 Tom White Paris 3772 W Hwy 22 (479) 963–2841 Donna Griffin, Kathy Schluterman Prairie Grove 1181 E Heritage Pkwy (Hwy 62) (479) 400–6160 Daniel Keeton, Catherine Goodwin Russellville 2797 E Parkway (479) 968–5030 Jim Taylor, Anna Lester Siloam Springs 4970 Hwy 412 East (479) 524–6754 Savannah Dickinson Texarkana 2305 Trinity Blvd. (870) 772–1882 Jonathan Shumate, Jennifer Hooper, Rustin Watson 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
You’ll be happy to know Farm Credit lands firmly in the latter category. We set records in 2020, including a record $11.2 M Patronage Cash distribution, despite closing lobbies in mid-March and moving to electronic business operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was truly an adverse year. Adversity continues in 2021 and we’re rising to the challenge by posting financial results, to date, that have the association on track for another good year. 2021 challenges include increased construction costs, higher priced grain ingredients, increased fertilizer costs, higher fuel prices and let’s not forget the tail end of the pandemic. By all rights, our association should be struggling but that’s not the case. I credit this success to our talented staff. Employees have adapted, thought outside the box and crafted smart, new business processes to best serve members during the unprecedented pandemic. Efforts were validated when we earned a 97.4% satisfaction score with a record number of respondents marking the very highest approval rating on our fall Customer Satisfaction Survey. Challenges exist, but there are some silver linings to our current ag economic situation; poultry demand in almost every segment is up, timber values have risen, and interest rates remain very low. All contribute to strong business. We addressed adversity head-on in 2020 by doing something we’d never done. Directors made a special $5 M mid-year patronage distribution to assist members during the pandemic. Another patronage distribution of $6.2 M was made in February based on remaining 2020 profits. Total patronage on 2020 profits was a record $11.2 M. Comments on the Customer Satisfaction Survey indicated almost unanimous appreciation for the mid-year patronage. The true impact of our almost 25-year patronage program is, I think, often overlooked from an interest rate perspective, especially when comparing interest rates with competitors. Essentially, patronage paid, on average, reduces the interest rate by nearly 1%. A 4.75% rate with the added benefit of typical patronage translates to 3.75%. A measurable advantage for any producer, rural homeowner or agribusiness. I have to further compliment employees on converting more than 2,000 loans to lower interest rates in 2020. Staff managed unparalleled workloads to ensure members reaped valuable savings. Converting interest rates when rates drop is unique to Farm Credit. Unlike a typical refinance that can cost thousands and take up to two months to complete, conversions are a quick and inexpensive alternative to lowering interest rate to align with changing market rates; even on long-term, fixed rate loans. More than one customer was shocked to receive a call from their local branch staff asking if they’d like to save money.
Minimizing borrower cost is the goal of our cooperative business model. We aren’t driven by earnings. Our mission is to serve member needs. Earnings are just a necessary by-product to keep operations moving forward. This fosters a unique culture within Farm Credit and between staff and members. We’re not out to squeeze extra fees from customers. Instead, we charge what is needed to cover the cost of services and return the rest via Patronage Cash. Cooperative advantages and committed employees are enabling Farm Credit to not only withstand adversity, but to grow and, most importantly, support member success in challenging times. Sincerely,
Brandon Haberer President and CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
William Arthur Ward, motivational writer
Chair Kenny Brixey, Casa
Ron Hubbard, London
Vice Chair Bob Dixon, Havana
Cody Jones, Mansfield
Steve Burke, Prescott
Julie Lively, Fulton
Renny Chesshir, Alma
Kenny Martin, De Queen
Chuck Davis, Ashdown
Gene Pharr, Lincoln
Pam Faulkner-Moore, Casa
Mark Wilcox, Greenbrier
Dusty Hampton, Russellville
Steve Young, Ozark
Kim Hogan, Ozark President and CEO Brandon Haberer
ABOUT THE RURAL SCENE
“Adversity causes some to break; others to break records.”
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 & Photographer Lindsey Holtzclaw • Lindsey.Holtzclaw@myaglender.com myaglender.com Article quotes have been edited for content and appropriateness.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! Find us at “Farm Credit of Western Arkansas” on Facebook, and @FarmCreditWEAR on Twitter and Instagram.
Member of the Cooperative Communicators Association. © 2021 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 There’s light at the end of the tunnel as Farm Credit makes plans to re-open lobbies soon. Directors, management and staff appreciate your patience over the past 15 months. This pandemic illustrates how quickly things can impact producers and Farm Credit. There’s never been a more important time for us to have good working relationships with both state and federal policy makers.
Kenny Brixey
Collectively, directors from all four Arkansas Farm Credit associations have built important channels of communication with legislators over the past several years. Together, we jointly employ an independent legislative liaison who closely monitors issues impacting Farm Credit at both the state and federal levels. The shared expense and effort is a strong example of how we benefit from the fundamental cooperative principle of cooperation among cooperatives.
We have cultivated a routine of annual (and at times more often) in-person meetings with Arkansas’ two senators and four congressmen in Washington, D.C. These small gatherings allow us to tell the story of Farm Credit. Most recently, we invited three customers from across the state to participate in virtual calls with Arkansas senators and congressmen on Capitol Hill. Members told their stories and shared their concerns. It was a valuable opportunity and legislators appreciated hearing directly from our members. Nationally, Farm Credit maintains a permanent presence and voice in Washington, D.C. Here in western Arkansas, we benefit from that expertise and are kept abreast of issues and policy. Currently, the national Farm Credit team is identifying inevitable changes that come with every change in administration. We’re hearing we may see an increased emphasis on agricultural conservation efforts. Trust that your Farm Credit is closely engaged with policy issues as they relate to Farm Credit lending practices, member needs and Arkansas agriculture.
Kenny Brixey Chair, Board of Directors Farm Credit of Western Arkansas
TURN YOUR HOME DREAMS INTO REALITY
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LONG-TERM, FIXED INTEREST RATES | ALL LOANS STAY IN-HOUSE CONSTRUCTION LOANS WITH ONE TIME CLOSING
COVID-19 UPDATE
We’re re-opening our lobbies on *June 1! *Yes, like many things during this pandemic-filled year, this announcement comes with an asterisk. Our June 1 lobby re-opening assumes COVID-19 levels in western Arkansas and Arkansas Health Department guidelines support that re-opening date.
Members also indicated in our 2020 Customer Satisfaction Survey (conducted in November) that they understood and supported the business changes we’d implemented due to COVID-19. We appreciate the understanding and support you’ve extended us during this unprecedented time.
Member and employee health remain our highest concern. Check myaglender.com for the most current lobby re-opening information.
We are now ready and excited to return to doing business in-person! Our members are more than just customers. We know you by name and we’ve truly missed serving your lending needs face-to-face.
When the decision to close lobbies was made in late March, 2020 nobody guessed the long-range ramifications of COVID-19. Employees moved to online and electronic data exchange with members virtually overnight. Record business for the year is a testament to how well staff and members adapted.
PLEASE NOTE: To facilitate continued safety, we are observing current CDC guidelines regarding masks and social distancing.
COVID-19 VACCINATION RESOURCES Arkansas Department of Health: 1-800-985-6030 www.healthy.arkansas.gov
All Arkansans age 16+ are now eligible.
Vaccination locations: www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/ covid-19-map-of-1-a-pharmacy-locations
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DIRE C TO R SC E N E
2021 Director Nominations Nominate a qualified member for a director position.
As a financial cooperative, Farm Credit is owned by the members it serves. Members have the responsibility of nominating and electing fellow members to serve as Directors. Directors meet approximately 10 times a year and work closely with management to guide association strategic direction and general practices. Directors are compensated for their time and travel. The Nominating Committee is accepting nominations for Director positions that are up for re-election this year. Directors commit to a four-year term that begins once election results are final. You’re invited to contact a current Nominating Committee member if you would like to: • Be considered as a Director or a Nominating Committee nominee • Nominate a fellow stockholder for a Director position • Nominate a fellow stockholder for the 2022 Nominating Committee Director Nominees must meet the following general requirements, as well as all other Farm Credit conditions: 1. Be a voting stockholder, at least 18 years of age, and a bona fide farmer (person owning agricultural land or engaged in the production of agricultural products, including aquatic products under control conditions) in the association’s 41-county western Arkansas territory. 2. Must have an active loan balance and acceptable credit classification rating.
The Farm Credit of Western Arkansas Board is comprised of 15 members as dictated by Association bylaws. 12—Directors elected through the member election process 1—Inside-appointed director (Association member selected by the Board of Directors) 2—Outside-appointed directors (non-members selected by the Board of Directors) Directors serve a four-year term. Association bylaws require that at least 60% of directors be elected by stockholders; FCA regulations require a minimum of two non-stockholder directors. 6
● Bentonville Siloam Springs ●
AREA 1
AREA 4
AREA 6
Boone
Carroll
Benton
● Tonitown
Madison
● Huntsville
Washington
Newton
● Prairie Grove
Nominations are being accepted through May 19. Please contact a Nominating Committee member directly to offer your suggestion(s).
Franklin
Crawford
AREA 1
Ronnie T. Horn • Washington William "Will" P. Lane • Benton
(479) 841–2616 (918) 253–7344
AREA 2
Justin “Taylor” Gattis • Franklin James A. Ford • Franklin
(479) 438–9009 (479) 209–4353
AREA 3
Allen Johnson • Logan Casey T. Cotton • Logan
(479) 438–0847 (479) 518–1362
AREA 4
Jerry L. Hartwick • Faulkner James Mann • Perry
(501) 472–6876 (501) 759–3119
Searcy
Johnson
● Ozark
● Clarksville
● Fort Smith Sebastian
Van Buren
Pope
Conway
Russellville
Logan
2021 Nominating Committee Members
Baxter
Marion
● Harrison
● Paris
Faulkner
● Greenbrier
● Morrilton Yell
DIRE C TO R SC E N E
2021 Director Positions Open for Election
● Danville
● Waldron
Perry
Scott
Saline Polk
Garland
Montgomery
● Mena
Pike
● De Queen Sevier
Hot Spring
● Glenwood
Howard
● Benton
Grant
● Arkadelphia
● Nashville
Clark
Dallas
Hempstead
AREA 5
AREA 6
Randy W. Peck • Hempstead Danielle Kitchens • Howard
(870) 703–5998 (870) 904–0843
Jonathan "Johnny" Dooley• Sevier (870) 584–8361 Jacob Hooper • Sevier (870) 584–7917
Nevada
Little River
● Hope
Ouachita
Calhoun
● Texarkana Columbia
Miller
● Magnolia Lafayette
Union
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M E M B E R SC E N E
You only lose... if you give up. Six years of perseverance saved the farm.
Determined to succeed, long-time logging contractor turned poultry farmer, JC Marks, refused to take no for an answer when faced with adversity that tested his faith, patience, and fortitude for six long years. “You can’t give up, or you lose,” JC Marks of Marks Farms explains when asked what fueled his focus to save his Ouachita County farm and livelihood. Six years. That’s probably five years more than the average producer would have given what many thought were insurmountable odds. After a 30-year career as a logging contractor, JC and his wife, Debbie, decided to transition to raising poultry in their early 50s. The couple had always had cows and thought raising chickens would be a good fit as they aged. With Farm Credit financing, they built their first four broiler houses in 2004. Success growing for Pilgrim’s Pride had them adding another two houses, three years later. Pilgrim’s Pride shut their El Dorado plant in 2008. That affected 110 poultry producers, including the Marks. Looking at four-year-old poultry houses with no contract to grow birds was a daunting prospect, according to JC. No birds meant no poultry income. No poultry income meant no immediate way to repay their Farm Credit loan. JC vividly remembers the day he learned that when they finished their current flock, there wouldn’t be another coming. “I had a friend from the timber world who called me,” JC remembers.
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“He said the Good Lord told him I was going to be O.K. and that he should call and tell me. I’m embarrassed to say I was a bit weak in faith at the time.”
JC Marks and Quality Assurance Specialist Milly Lindsey forged a close bond during trying times for Marks Farms.
But true enough, two days later, four Pilgrim’s Pride representatives from De Queen visited his farm, liked what they saw, and offered him a contract. “That bought us more time,” JC reflects. Three years in, Pilgrim’s Pride cancelled his new contract, citing the distance to the nearest processing plant. “They offered to buy our contract, but it would have only given us half of what we still owed on the chicken houses,” JC continues. “I had to say no and take my chances even though there was no guarantee there’d be another offer.” Determined a solution existed, JC began exploring every avenue for growing birds. He was able to secure a commitment to grow three flocks of pullets from a small producer. Those two opportunities carried Marks Farms to 2011. Poultry work dried up in 2011, though, JC says. They scraped by with cows, hauling gravel, and timber work, as it was available. It was during this time that he and Debbie also began raising their grandchildren, now ages 17 and 13, fulltime. JC found work where he could for the next almost seven years. He also made a habit of networking with poultry company personnel. He called one particular Tyson manager every Monday morning for months. The man took his calls and learned his
Pilgrim's Pride had a Farmerville, LA plant that JC thought made sense for his location. He remembers talking to Foster Farms when they took over that plant. When he learned that his farm being 100 miles from the feed mill was a deal-breaker, he offered to haul his own feed since he had the truck and experience. JC was willing to do whatever it took to put his poultry houses back into production. Grit, persistence, and faith paid off in late 2017. Sadly, the call he and Debbie had prayed for since 2011 came three weeks after Debbie passed away following a brief illness. Not having Debbie there to celebrate the hard-fought win made it, understandably, a somber victory. Debbie and JC were married 44 years and were partners on the farm for all of their marriage. “Faith has a lot to do with it,” JC continues. “God helps those who help themselves. I’m a true believer and we prayed a lot.” Foster Farms offered JC a six-house contract growing broilers. He’s had that contract since 2017 and the farm is doing well. He’s been able to afford upgrades out-of-pocket and is quickly paying down debt, he says with a smile. Farm Credit’s Role Farm Credit advertises they’re there for western Arkansas producers in good economic times, and bad. We can’t make that claim without pointing to real-life examples. Working with JC and his situation over six years demonstrates, firsthand, our commitment to farmers.
“There was never a formal agreement,” he remembers. “They understood and allowed my loan to accrue interest while I made whatever payments I could.” “There was never a period when Mr. JC wasn’t making payments of some sort,” remembers Milly Lindsey, longtime Financial Services Specialist at the Magnolia branch. Milly has since taken a new position as Quality Assurance Specialist in the credit department, but welcomed the opportunity to visit Marks Farms and reconnect with one of her favorite members.
M E M B E R SC E N E
name. He smiles and remembers how he and that manager got to know one another over time. There was talk of a contract opportunity two or three different times, but they all fell through. His farm’s distance to feed mills and processing plants were often the issue.
“I’ve never seen anyone work harder to get a contract,” Milly shares. “JC’s determination and confidence are inspiring, and I truly admire both his work ethic and character.” Character is an important consideration in the credit process. Borrower character weighs heavily in loan decisions at Farm Credit. “There was never any doubt JC was good for the loan,” Milly continues. “Working with him through the situation made sense. He was going to find a way to pay it. We had a lending relationship with him from 2004 to 2011 that was exemplary. He had some bad luck in 2011, but because we knew him and had history with him, it was a given that we’d work with him.” “That’s what Farm Credit does,” offers Loan Officer Darren Neal who wasn’t JC’s loan officer at the time but has since become acquainted with him through recent loans to retrofit his poultry houses. Darren has been the loan officer at Magnolia since May 2020 and recently moved to the Hope office.
“Thank goodness Farm Credit is designed for farming people,” JC sighs. JC visited his Farm Credit loan officer to explain the situation when the bad news first struck in 2011.
9 JC Marks grows broilers for Foster Farms.
M E M B E R SC E N E
“Not only did they believe in me for six plus years as I continued to say I’d find another contract,” JC explains, “but when I did and needed a loan to update the houses, they worked with me in a way that allowed me the cash flow I still needed to live and operate.” “If I’d been with a bank, I would’ve lost everything,” JC speculates. “Not to say anything against banks, they just operate differently. I don’t think I’d have had the years of flexibility Farm Credit gave me.” JC’s farm sits on 80 acres. Half of those acres have been in his family for nearly 150 years. Determination When asked what kept him positive and determined for more than six years, JC points to his 30-year logging career. “Logging is hard work and is stressful,” he explains. “At one point, my operation had 14 employees and their families relying on our success. There were many nights I lost sleep back then.” That experience may have prepared JC for going years without birds and the stress of how to repay hundreds of thousands of dollars in poultry construction debt. In JC’s case, the stress didn’t come from knowing IF he’d find another contract, but rather WHEN and HOW it would all play out. He knew if he didn’t give up, he’d eventually find a new contract. It was a lesson in faith and patience, he reiterates. Those six determined years paid off. His operation has been thriving since 2017 and he loves the freedom that comes with raising chickens. According to JC, you only lose if you give up. He’s offered us all a valuable lesson in perseverance by demonstrating how true it is.
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Story and photos by Jill Robertson
THE LENDER WITH A 97.4% MEMBER SATISFACTION RATING. Members gave the association a stellar customer satisfaction rating for 2020. In fact, the number of members giving the association the highest ranking possible set a new association record. An impressive feat made even more remarkable by the fact the survey was administered in late fall, more than eight months after the association closed lobbies to protect customers and staff from COVID-19. It’s clear that moving lending operations online, essentially overnight, allowed us to maintain exemplary customer service in the midst of the pandemic. Meeting members’ lending needs during unprecedented circumstances is one more reason to trust Farm Credit of Western Arkansas.
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M E M B E R SC E N E
the pursuit y Agriculture Since he was big enough to attach the milkers to his family’s dairy cows, Steve Ackerman has been immersed in agriculture. At the ripe young age of eight, he already played an important role in helping with the twice-a-day milking on their dairy farm. While that may sound like a pretty tall order for most eight-year-olds, Steve thrived and it sparked a life-long connection to agriculture.
From paddling in the dark while snakes fell in their boat on War Eagle Creek, to exploring caves on their property, to coming face-to-face with a bear – if you have the pleasure of meeting the Ackermans, you’re sure to hear a thrilling story. In fact, the beginning of their relationship is a great story in itself.
Over the years, Steve’s worn many hats in agriculture and farming. He operated dairies in Arkansas and Wisconsin, hauled cattle across the country, rode horses in sale barns, worked in a tractor dealership, raised turkeys and even worked in a turkey production plant for a short time to see a different side of the food supply chain. He showed dairy cattle in FFA and was the third person from Huntsville High School to receive his American FFA Degree, a prestigious award that less than half of one percent of FFA members hold. Recently, Steve and his wife, Brenda, began a new adventure – raising pullets alongside their already established cow-calf herd. He says he’s also considering adding stocker cattle to his list of future ag endeavors.
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Farming isn’t the only adventure Steve and Brenda have embarked on. Since marrying in 2000, their entire relationship has been an adventure.
Steve and Brenda stand in front of one of their pastures that Steve planted in winter wheat.
M E M B E R SC E N E
After driving by Brenda’s house many times and seeing her work cattle, mow the yard and do a variety of farm chores, Steve stopped and offered a helping hand. While working alongside Brenda, he quickly realized how much they had in common. On Christmas, he dropped by with a gift of cheese (fitting for a former dairy farmer) and asked her on a date. The rest is history.
The Ackermans’ rural home, built by Steve and Brenda with the help of a few family members.
Before recently retiring, Brenda worked in the medical field as a lab and x-ray technician. Like many involved in ag, she carried responsibilities on the farm in addition to her off-farm career. Her roots in agriculture are equally as strong as Steve’s. Brenda grew up on the farm they manage today. Her family raised cattle and various livestock and a tended garden. The family grew much of their food and Brenda was driving a tractor and helping with daily chores at a young age. The Ackermans’ Huntsville farm in Madison County has been in Brenda’s family for over 80 years. They have since appropriately named it True Grit Farm – a fitting description of the couple’s drive and determination.
When you turn down the dirt road to True Grit Farm, you’re first met with rolling pastures, freshly covered with bright green winter wheat. Their charming red metal home sits atop the hill, with their newly-constructed pullet houses sitting off to the left in matching red tin. Every part of their farm is picturesque, with the War Eagle Creek running alongside the lush pastures and tall, rocky bluffs framing the property. While the farm is naturally beautiful, it’s clear much of its beauty is thanks to having great managers. Like many producers, Steve is devoted to his work. He spends significant time deciding how he can improve their operation. Serious thought goes into everything from planting and preparing fields for seasonal grazing, to bringing newborn calves inside on cold nights, to spending hours in the pullet houses determining how to grow birds more efficiently. “I love to do anything where I can see results,” Steve says. And their farm’s results speak for themselves.
Over the years, Steve’s grit has included doing whatever was needed to make ends meet to provide for his family. When choosing the name, the Ackermans went through pages of notebook paper, jotting down ideas. One night Steve woke up Brenda to share the name “True Grit”. Brenda agreed that it was perfect. As a John Wayne fan, the name appealed to Steve. For Brenda, it has a deeper meaning, reminding her of the hard work her parents and others before her put into the farm. It also communicates her and Steve’s faith and commitment to the operation.
While raising turkeys, Steve was repeatedly a top grower, his cattle approach him without hesitation (a clear sign of the amount of time he spends with them), their farm is immaculate and although they’re only on their second batch of pullets, the Ackermans are quickly finding their groove and success in raising chickens. Brenda says she most admires Steve’s work ethic and perseverance when it comes to farming and life in general. “When I think it can’t be done, he’ll do it,” Brenda says. “When he puts his mind to something, he is unstoppable.”
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M E M B E R SC E N E
Unstoppable is the perfect word to describe the Ackermans and their career in agriculture. After accepting an offer to sell their turkey farm, the couple began to work with other poultry companies to obtain a new grower contract. After promised deals fell through, they spent a few years talking to various integrators. Their original plan was to grow broilers or raise laying hens, but that changed the day George’s, Inc. asked if they would be interested in building four pullet houses.
“That call was a God send,” Brenda explains. She says the call came after much time in prayer trying to decide what the next step on the farm should be. Ready to move forward with building pullet houses, Steve called Farm Credit Huntsville Loan Officer, Trey Villines, to research financing options. Construction began in June 2020 and the couple received their first flock of birds in September. In addition to their chicken houses, the Ackermans use Farm Credit financing for their rural home and cattle as well. The couple designed and built the open-concept home themselves with the help of family. The focal point is a sophisticated covered, pillared entrance featuring large, wooden double doors. That unique style carries throughout the home. “I’ve had loans with every bank in Northwest Arkansas,” Steve says with a laugh. “Trey is the first loan officer I’ve ever had in my home.”
Steve and Huntsville Loan Officer, Trey Villines
When asked why he chose Farm Credit, Steve simply points at Trey and says, “Because of him.” A native to Huntsville, Trey has known the Ackermans for years. Brenda says she enjoys working with him because of his ability to help them feel comfortable. “Farm Credit has been a blessing,” she says. “We were able to save on interest and fees and Patronage Cash is an extra bonus.” Steve added, “Sometimes it’s hard to get to the office, especially during Farm Credit’s regular business hours, so Trey has met me on the farm to finish signing papers or discuss details about our loan options.” Steve and Brenda agree that Jo Upson, Financial Services Specialist, rounds out the Huntsville office dream team, noting that Jo and Trey are always easy to work with. Trey and Jo echo that sentiment in regards to serving the Ackermans’ lending needs.
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Steve pets Henry, a calf that stayed in their house when a winter storm hit Huntsville. Brenda says the babies on the farm are always Steve’s favorites.
Trey says his favorite part of the job is the opportunity to help farmers and ranchers. Since he farms himself, Trey understands the need for flexible hours and loan programs. He also says working with members like Steve and Brenda makes his job easy.
M E M B E R SC E N E
“The Ackermans are the type of people who go above and beyond when it comes to their operation,” Trey says. “They are some of the hardest working people I’ve ever met and are dedicated to producing the best they can.” While farming comes with its fair share of challenges, Brenda says they’re blessed to do what they love. “Even though we have to get up at 5:30 every morning and there are difficult days, I love this farm,” she says. Whether it’s raising poultry, cattle, building their own home or taking on the adventure of life together, one thing is for sure - the Ackermans do everything with a lot of heart and will always walk away with a great story to tell.
15 Story and photos by Lindsey Holtzclaw
C O O P E RAT IVE SC E N E
7 Cooperative Principles Voluntary Membership Democratic Member Control Members’ Economic Participation Autonomy and Independence Education, Training, and Information Cooperation Among Cooperatives
$11.2
MILLION in
PATRONAGE CASH
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.
More than 6,600 western Arkansas members shared $11.2 MILLION is 2020 association profits. $5 M went to members in late June, 2020 to assist members during the pandemic. The remaining $6.2 M from 2020 profits were mailed to members in mid-February. Sharing profits with members is a part of our cooperative business model. We look forward to returning to our tradition of celebrating with Patronage Open House events next year.
Concern for Community Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by membership.
PPP Loans Nationally, the Small Business Administration launched a special Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic last spring. These are emergency loans to help small businesses keep and rehire employees. PPP funds spent on payroll, rent, mortgage interest or utilities qualify for government loan forgiveness under the plan. As a service to members needing PPP loans, Farm Credit immediately went to work obtaining the authorization needed to become a PPP loan provider. We were able to begin making PPP loans in April, 2020 to farmers and small business owners whose income and business had been affected by the pandemic. Since the program’s inception, our association has facilitated more than 600 PPP loans for members, totaling almost $9.5 million. Farm Credit choose to become a PPP provider to assist members and our local rural communities.
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R E F E R R AL R EWAR D S PR OG RA M
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 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. Pick the gift you'd like and either drop by to pick it up, or we'll ship it to your home.
Camo Knife
BBQ Tools
Beach Towel
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KOHL
-laborations
Commentary, wisdom, and perspectives from globally renowned agricultural economist, Dr. David M. Kohl.
Finding Your Phoenix The COVID-19 pandemic has been described both as a black swan and a gray rhino. Those calling it a black swan event think the pandemic was unpredictable. Others who have used the term gray rhino think the threat was probable but neglected. Regardless of the nomenclature, finding the ability to rise up from the pandemic is now on the agenda for many business owners. Let’s examine 4 P strategies and tactics that may prove useful in the regenerative state of your business and help you find your phoenix. Pivot The ability of a business to quickly pivot, regardless of macro and micro events, will be the call to order. Trade, government policy, and global economics will create an environment with a surprise around every corner. Producers with high business acumen will build a cushion and develop a business plan where they can quickly pivot, strategize, and capitalize on opportunities or block adversity. Maintaining extra financial liquidity and flexibility in the marketing and risk management plan and developing an operational plan with a degree of agility will require critical thinking. Planning
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A good, old-fashioned business planning exercise can provide a road map in finding your phoenix. This could include doing a SWOT analysis to identify internal strengths, weaknesses, external opportunities, and threats. A SWOT analysis could also benefit other enterprises and organizations you are involved in. Engage your lender, crop or livestock consultant, peer, or a team of advisors to provide strategic and tactical thinking either in-person, online, or using a hybrid approach.
Projections Setting aside time to develop financial projections is essential more than ever before. Projections are approximately 80% of a business plan when considering production, marketing, finance, and operational management. Projections are analogous to a successful sports professional who visualizes outcomes through techniques. They can provide a visualization of possible outcomes and scenarios with adjustments in production, cost, and prices. This can provide a method of determining plans A, B, C, and D and the resources and commitment needed in the short and long-run to place the outcomes on the positive side of the ledger. This visualization can be instrumental in prioritizing capital expenditures, minor or major capital expansion, or the basic business needs and wants. People Finding your phoenix in business requires examining the people part of the equation. Required reading for any business owner or manager is the book Good to Great by Jim Collins. Productive people with the right competencies, whether it is the CEO, manager, key employees, team members, or advisors can take your business from good to great. It’s critical to communicate the responsibilities, expectations, and outcomes to your team, and hold them accountable by creating goals with clear timelines. Top-level leadership, front-line staff, and family members should all be on the same page. The gap between financial and business performance will widen during this decade. The ability to plan and have strategies to pivot will be a top priority. Visualizing possible outcomes with projections, regardless of the macro and micro business climate, can provide the formula for success. Having the right people in your business who can execute and be accountable for actions will be one of the main drivers to finding your phoenix. 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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Fort Smith Farmers Market
C O M M UN IT Y SC E N E
Green Market (Hot Springs Village) Vilonia Farmers Market The Central Ozarks Farmers & Artisans Market (Harrison) Tontitown Farmers Market ASU Regional Farmers Market (Jonesboro) St. Joseph Center of Arkansas Farm Stand (Little Rock) Paragould Farmers Market Cabot Farmers Market Conway Farmers Market Flippin Farmers Market Harrison Farmers Market
2021 Farmers Market Grant Awards The Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas again sponsored the Arkansas Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market Grant Awards. Funds are used to promote local markets via permanent signage, advertising, paid social media posts and other marketing methods.
Springdale Farmers Market Little River County Farmers Market Main Street Morrilton First Thursday Farmers Market Sheridan Farmers Market Downtown Newport Farmers Market
The program is open to all public markets, details at www.agriculture.arkansas.gov
Arkansas Women in Agriculture have moved their March 2021 in-person conference to 2022 and will, instead, host virtual learning opportunities throughout the year. Find details at arwomeninag.org and at the Arkansas Women in Agriculture Facebook page. The Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas are a major sponsor for this organization.
Vice President and Branch Manager Misty Eastep presents a $200 donation to Captain Josh Bishop of the Tontitown Fraternal Order of Police. The branch's donation will go toward purchasing new bullet-proof vests for local officers. 20
We value the contributions our employees make through volunteer work and leadership in their local communities. To foster these connections and honor employee commitment, we donate up to $500/employee annually, to qualifying non-profit organizations.
Training Coordinator Christina Roling volunteers leadership with the Saving Grace NWA organization that assists young women ages 18-25 who have aged out of foster care and are facing homelessness. The program offers housing, educational assistance, and career guidance. Christina’s volunteer role has earned the organization a $500 donation.
Bentonville Vice President and Branch Manager Dilynn Dodd is an active volunteer and leader with the Springdale Riding Club – Arkansas High School Rodeo Scholarship Committee. Her volunteer work earned the group a $300 donation.
C O M M UN IT Y SC E N E
Community Connections
Farm Credit made a $500 donation to the Ozark Police Department’s Shop with a Cop program in December in honor of Financial Services Specialist Rosemary Hall’s continued volunteer work with organization.
Online Banking Check out our new, updated online banking app. 24/7 access to your account information at your fingertips! Assistance available at 479-968-1434 (M-F 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM). Free and available from the app store for your device. Search “Farm Credit Western Ark”.
AVAILABLE ON:
apple GOOGLE-PLAY 21
W E ST E RN SC E N E
New Faces
A native of Spring Hill, KELSEY CROW joined the Hope branch office in mid-January as a Financial Services Specialist. She was raised on a poultry and cattle farm and attended Southern Arkansas University. She has three years of banking experience and lives in Spring Hill with her husband James and one-year-old son Hudson.
DANIELLE SCOTT started work as a Regional Financial Services Specialist in late January. She has four years of experience working for DHS. Her home office is Nashville, but she will be traveling between several southern branch offices. She lives in Nashville with her sons Rydan (age 6) and Rhyett (age 3) and enjoys duck hunting and fishing.
Financial Services Specialist RACHEL CHANDLER has joined our De Queen branch team. She lives in Horatio with husband Talen and their 17-month-old daughter Kimber. Rachel previously worked for the City of Horatio and she and Talen own and operate six poultry houses. Rachel is a Farm Credit customer, herself, which brings a unique perspective to her work on the lending side. She enjoys deer hunting in her free time.
ASHLYN JACKSON joined the Farm Credit team in December as a Regional Financial Services Specialist for our NWA branch offices. Her home office location is Tontitown. Originally from Lincoln, Ashlyn earned an ag business degree from the University of Arkansas. She showed pigs in FFA and 4-H growing up and had a Farm Credit youth loan for cattle. Much of her free time is now spent helping with the Red Angus cow/calf operation she shares with her boyfriend Justin.
JOSH BAILEY joined the Farm Credit team as General Counsel in late 2020. Josh has an undergraduate degree from Ouachita Baptist University, a law degree from the University of Arkansas and an LL.M. in Agriculture and Food Law, also from the University of Arkansas. Originally from northern Mississippi, Josh and wife Lacey live in Fayetteville with daughters Annalee (age 10), Eleanor (age 8) and Brynn (age 1 ½). When Josh has time for hobbies, he enjoys fly fishing and canoeing.
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PAUL BENNETT has moved from Regional Field Services Officer to Loan Officer at the Fort Smith branch. Loan Officer DARREN NEAL moved from the Magnolia branch office to the Hope branch office in April. DEVETTA ROBINSON was named IT Technician on February 1. DUSTIN GRAMMER transitioned to Appraiser Trainee in February.
W E ST E RN SC E N E
Changing Places
MILLY LINDSEY and BECKY BEDELL were both named Quality Assurance Specialists on March 1. JODY ALMAND has been named Vice President of Credit. KATHY SCHLUTERMAN has accepted the position of Loan Officer at Paris. JOYCE RIDENOUR has been named Consumer Agri-Consumer Loan Specialist in Ft. Smith.
2020 Farm Family of the Year CONGRATULATIONS to REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT DENISE SWEAT and her family! Denise and Chris and daughters Sara and Anna (left) were named the 2020 ARKANSAS FARM FAMILY OF THE YEAR! Farming for 23 years together, Denise and Chris are both fourth-generation farmers. Their impressive farming operation, commitment and contributions to agriculture, and volunteer leadership in agriculture contributed to earning this year’s title. The Sweats farm 500 acres in McCaskill where they have a timber and hay operation and raise registered cattle, sheep and goats. Most of their registered cattle are sold as youth show animals. Chris established and manages a goat and sheep sale in Hope and teaches part-time at Blevins High School. Denise’s Farm Credit career spans more than 20 years. Sara and Anna actively raise and show their own animals and the Sweat family has been instrumental in establishing and running the Southwest Arkansas Livestock Event. SALE was created through the work of volunteers like the Sweats to ensure youth in SW Arkansas have access to local, competitive livestock shows. We’re proud to see the Sweat family's hard work being honored with this distinction. The Sweats will travel to the Swisher Sweets Sunbelt Ag Expo in October 2022 to compete for the southeastern US title against winners from nine states.
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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 105 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
2021 Photo Contest Start planning for our annual photo contest! Contest deadline is Monday, August 2. Enter shots that tell the story of what it’s like to live in western Arkansas. Anyone living in our 41-county Western Arkansas territory may enter. Photos must be taken in western Arkansas, as well. Two divisions – adult and youth (up to age 18), with cash prizes in both categories PLUS one grand-prize winner.
Grand Prize
$500
(best overall photo from both categories) Entry form and complete details at myaglender.com
1st Place $300 2nd Place $200 3rd Place $100
Cash prizes in both Youth & Adult categories.
Evann Twitchell submitted this photo last year and it was featured in our annual calendar.
