HeartBeat Winter 2011 by FCS Financial

HeartBeat winter 2011

Go East, young man, go East.

Growing their dream in Missouri.

Board of Directors â&#x20AC;&#x201D; FCS Financial ACA James Nivens, LaRussell, Chairman

Dan Devlin, Edina

Brian J. Peterson, Trenton, Vice Chairman

Maurice Glosemeyer, Marthasville

Kenneth Bergmann, Walnut Grove

Daniel Hulse, Hannibal

Bruce Bjornson, Oro Valley, Ariz., Appointed

David Meneely, Chillicothe, Appointed

Michael L. Bruce, Nevada

Mark S. Pierce, DeKalb

Michael L. Cook, Columbia, Appointed

Gene H. Rademacher, Bland

James Davis, West Plains

Rick Rehmeier, Augusta

Mark DeShon, Clarksdale

Office Locations Bolivar 417-326-4016 1-866-326-4016 Cameron 816-632-7265 1-800-225-6949 Carthage 417-358-0808 1-866-358-0808 Chillicothe 660-646-5044 1-800-264-3276 Clinton 660-885-8164 1-866-885-8164 Columbia 573-449-5910 1-800-241-5910 Farmington 573-756-5747 1-800-276-8120 Hannibal 573-221-0273 1-800-798-0273 Harrisonville 816-884-3061 1-800-517-3348 Higginsville 660-584-7181 1-866-584-7181 Jefferson City 573-636-7131 1-800-292-7131 Lebanon 417-588-5828 1-866-588-5828 Macon 660-395-1940 1-800-432-2156

Marshall 660-886-6897 1-800-228-6897 Maryville 660-582-6464 1-800-813-5722 Mexico 573-581-3192 1-800-314-3192 Mt. Vernon 417-466-7101 1-866-466-7101 Neosho 417-451-6084 1-866-451-6084 Nevada 417-667-8206 1-888-667-9681 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Fallon 636-327-1787 1-800-379-3276 St. Joseph 816-279-2118 1-866-279-2118 Sedalia 660-827-5810 1-800-310-5810 Springfield 417-862-4158 1-866-862-4158 Union 636-583-5400 1-800-583-5480 West Plains 417-256-2298 1-866-256-2298

Publication Information CEO: Daryl Oldvader Editor: Amy Wieberg, amy.wieberg@myfcsfinancial.com HeartBeat is published three times a year by FCS Financial. Please address any comments to FCS Financial, Attn: HeartBeat Editor, 1934 E. Miller St., Jefferson City, MO 65101. For more information about FCS Financial or to access your account online, visit myfcsfinancial.com

Member Cooperative Communicators Association

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

Printed with farmer-grown soybean ink on recycled paper.

California transplants, find out how the County into a poultry empire.

Cover: The Triple P Ranch operation incl

table of contents 4

Daryl’s Desk

Member Feature

Dollars & Cents

Life is Simple

Risk Management

Youth in Ag

e Peaster family transformed wooded, rugged terrain of Benton

ludes (l-r) Jim, nephew Jake and son Randy Peaster. Photos by Joann Pipkin

News Briefs

• FCSF Office Updates • Patronage & Customer Appreciation • Winners of FCSF Sponsored Gator

Nivens’ Notes HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

daryl’s desk Daryl Oldvader, CEO

Greetings – I am not very good at soliciting for money. That has been proven early in my life on the farm as I tried to “solicit” personal funding from my father. He always seemed to correlate reward with hard work. He made it very clear to my brother and me that there was no such thing as a young man’s entitlement program. On the other hand, my father also taught us to be bold about what we believe. It is to the latter which I address the balance of this message. The federal budgeting process (or lack thereof) has created challenges for all areas of the economy, and agriculture is no exception. The Super Committee’s inability to deliver on much needed fiscal disciplines has created universal budget cuts resulting in uncertain appropriations for a key partner of agriculture – the Food and Agricultural Policy R e se a rc h I n st it ute (FA PR I ). Located in Missouri, FAPRI has been providing Congress and other decision makers with the information they need to make informed and unbiased decisions on 4

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

issues related to agriculture for more than 25 years. FAPRI is perhaps best known for its 10-year baseline projections for agricultural markets. Each year, FAPRI analysts put together an outlook for everything from the price of corn to per-capita beef consumption to net farm income and the budget cost of farm programs. The baseline gives policy makers, farmers, agribusinesses, farm lenders, and the broader public a better understanding of what U.S. agriculture might look like if current policies and market trends continue. Perhaps even more important than the baseline is FAPRI’s analysis of alternative scenarios: W hat happens if budget cuts force a change in farm policy or if new biofuel policies are put in place? How might a recession here or economic growth in Asia affect commodity markets? FA PR I analysis gives decision makers a better understanding of the consequences from the choices they make. To do all of this, it requires the best people and the best tools. FA PR I researchers have been building and improving FAPRI models for decades. In fact, the current model of U.S. agriculture includes more than 2,000 equations and is designed to look at 500 different ways the future could unfold, considering the many factors that make agricultural markets inherently volatile. However, these models are just tools. The key to FAPRI’s success is having a team of experts who understand the finer points of agricultural markets and

policies – and how the pieces fit together. No small order. FAPRI provides a combination of ser v ic e s to t he f a r m a nd policy communities not available elsewhere. FAPRI’s analysts strive to be objective and comprehensive. Without making recommendations, they focus on providing estimated impacts on commodity markets, farm income, consumer food costs, budgetary outlays, and other indicators of interest to policy makers and the public. This approach is one reason why FAPRI analyses are routinely utilized by people from all sides of major policy debates. W h e n FA P R I p r o v i d e s i n f or m a t i on t h a t h e lp s t h e Congressiona l Budget Of f ice determine the budgetar y implications of a farm bill proposal, it can affect policy choices that are worth literally billions of dollars to the farm sector. When FAPRI helps the Administration understand the consequences of alternative World Trade Organization rules, it can affect the U.S. negotiating position. When FAPRI shows the consequences of different ways to reduce the budget deficit, it helps policy makers understand the trade-offs involved in cutting direct payments and changing other safety nets. With so much volatility and uncertainty in our economy and agriculture, the value of FAPRI has been magnified. Additionally, with the creation of a new farm bill on the horizon, the objective and unbiased input from this group is imperative to maintain the long-

term positioning of U.S. agriculture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both here and around the globe. Senator Blunt and Representative Emerson have been instrumental in carrying the legislative banner for FAPRI. Unfortunately, more needs to be done to ensure the funding and continuity of this organization. Blake Hurst, Missouri Farm Bureau President, and I have been asked to co-chair a committee to help provide financial support for FAPRI. Abner Womack, the long-time director of FAPRI, is an honorary chair for our committee. He will be conducting a series of meetings around the state to engage producers and agribusinesses in our mission. As I noted in my opening statement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I am not very good at soliciting money, but my 40 years of financing agriculture have strengthened my convictions regarding the value of FAPRI to Missouri and U.S. agriculture. We need it! Finally, as we begin a new year, it gives us cause to stand back and reflect on our blessings of life: family, friends, health, and the freedom to worship and live in a democracy. We are grateful for the U.S. service men and women who stand watch to protect those freedoms. Many people around the world cannot comprehend the values that we merely accept as inherent to America. The Farm Credit System has provided credit to agriculture for 95 years. We have appreciated that privilege and we look forward to the next 95!

Important Notice to Shareholders View the 2011 Annual Report on March 15 by visiting www.myfcsfinancial.com. In accordance with Farm Credit Administration regulations, FCS Financial will provide the 2011 Annual Report in two different ways. An electronic copy will be posted to our website no later than March 15, 2012. Additionally, we will mail a printed copy to each shareholder of record as of December 31, 2011. The printed copy will be mailed no later than March 31, 2012. We have had customers ask us to not mail them a copy, however, we are required to mail a hard copy to each shareholder.

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

member feature

When Vision Comes to Life Article and photos by: Joann Pipkin

As the winding Highway B heads south out of Cole Camp in mid-Missouri, Benton county’s occasional cropland and cattle farms give way to rugged hills that surely glisten in the autumn light. Tucked away as if for safe-keeping the area is home to one of the region’s largest poultry operations. But, one w o u l d n’t know it until venturing off the main thoroughfare. It is Jake Peaster here, amid the wooded countryside of rural Missouri that Troy Peaster’s vision comes to life. Triple P Ranch today is owned by members of the late Troy Peaster’s family and, thanks to his foresight, these California natives have found life abundant in their quest to get back on the farm. 6

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

Moving On It was 1994 and all it took was some friends who planted the seed in Troy Peaster’s mind: Tyson Foods was expected to build a poultry complex in the Sedalia, Mo., area. “We discussed it briefly,” Troy’s son Jake recalls. “I’ll never forget what dad said, ‘We can talk about it or we can go see.’” And, see they did. In short order, Jake and father, Troy, caught an airplane out of San Francisco bound for Missouri to explore what new opportunity might await them. In five short days, the Peasters had met with representatives from Tyson Foods, as well as a realtor, discussed their options and finances. “It didn’t take the realtor very long to see that us California boys liked the hills and the trees,” Jake Peaster explains with a grin. “That was so new to us. It was like we were camping every day.”

Before heading back to their trucking company and almond orchard in the San Joaquin Valley, Troy Peaster had put money down on the farm that would later become Triple P Ranch. Although not on the initial scouting journey to Missouri, Troy’s brother Jim was ready for the move, too. “Uncle Troy knew what he wanted,” Jim’s son Randy credits. “He’d draw something up on the computer and we’d go to work.” And, go to work they did. By summer of 1995, the trucking business had been sold on auction and the Peasters were east bound. The initial Peaster operation consisted of 12 broiler houses— four for each of Troy, Jake and Jim. Armed with an old bulldozer they hauled all the way from California, the men did their own dirt work in the beginning, hoping to earn their living until they could

get the poultry barns built. Jake also worked for a time for a company that was constructing their poultry houses so he could earn a living as well. “We had no income,” Jake recalls. “It wasn’t easy. We bit off quite a bit.” Phase two of the Peaster operation came to fruition in 1998 when Jim’s son Randy bought into the partnership and eight additional houses were built. As Tyson was set for expansion, two poultry suppliers moved out of the Sedalia area and in doing so left opportunity for the Peasters to become a dealer for Cumberland poultry equipment. “We became a dealer for our eight houses,” Jake explains. “There were 18 barns total in the area, including our own.” Jake notes that being a poultry equipment dealer has helped their own operation cut down time and improve efficiency. “If something breaks down, we don’t have to go to town for parts; we just go to our w a r e h o u s e ,” Jake explains. To d a y, Triple P Ranch includes 20 broiler houses, a poultry supply c o m p a n y, Jim Peaster construction business and litter marketing enterprise all headquartered off the initial 400-acre parcel the Peasters purchased in the mid-1990s. The operation is owned by Carolyn Peaster, the late Troy’s wife; Troy’s son Jake; Troy’s brother, Jim; and Jim’s son Randy. Additionally, Jim’s sons Terry, Kelly and Scott work

in the broiler arm of the operation while Jake’s daughter Katie helps in the office.

Looking Ahead Wisdom beyond words, Troy Peaster’s vision helped pave the way for his family’s future. Jake credits his father as being a “shop man,” one to fix things even before they were broke. He says that philosophy plays out in all aspects of the operation today, whether raising birds or fixing equipment— tend to the problems before hand. “Troy actually went through some of the tough times for the operation,” Jim says. “He wasn’t really able to reap some of the benefits the operation sees now. But, he got us going.” “He didn’t spend money on things that wouldn’t make money for the operation,” Jake explains. According to Jake, for his dad there was never a job that was done “good enough.” “It was either good or it wasn’t good,” he explains. “You either did the job right or you didn’t, there was no in between.” With that in mind, Randy says it is that philosophy in raising broilers that makes the difference. “Pay attention to detail,” Jim echoes. Troy was instrumental in helping the family convert an old almond picker into a self-propelled cruster that feeds litter from its front. “We haven’t used a pitchfork for clean-out in 10 years,” Jim notes. FCS Financial’s Danny Young notes, “Troy was ahead of his time. He was the first I can remember to have a computer in his house

that could monitor activity in the poultry barns. And at the time, (computer controllers) weren’t approved for the poultry houses.” Jake says his father also equipped their houses so a tractor could be driven inside between the brooder area and grow-out ends of the barn. That has since advanced from doors between the two ends to now having curtains that separate the two. “His mind was always working on ‘what can I do to make this more efficient,” Jake says. Red alarm lights are installed outside each barn so that when there is a problem inside, the light illuminates, indicating the house with the issue. A switch manually resets the lights. “That was just down dad’s line to think of something like that,” Jake says. While the lights are still operational today, technology now takes the alarm system one step further. A complete alarm system indicating any problems within the barns is initially sent Randy Peaster out via landline telephone. However, after a direct lightening strike wiped out the farm’s land-line telephone, a new alarm system was added and now indicates which house the problem is in, what the problem is and where it is located within the barn. All of that information is sent via text message on cell phones. An HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

Randy Peaster, FCS’ Danny Young, Jim and Jake Peaster discuss how critical technology is to their operation. After a direct lightening strike wiped out the farms telephone line, the Peasters installed an internet tower atop their litter stacking shed to help head-off any potential disasters with break-downs inside the poultry houses. Now when there’s an emergency, an alert pin-pointing which house is in jeopardy and what the problems entails is sent via text message to cell phones.

Twenty broiler houses make up the production on Triple P Ranch. In addition to raising broilers for Tyson Foods, the operation includes litter marketing, construction and poultry equipment.

internet tower installed atop the ranch’s stacking shed allows remote monitoring for all the barns.

Working Together With so many members of the same family working side by side, day in 8

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

and day out, the scenario might seem overwhelming. But, not for the Peaster family. “We’ve learned to agree to disagree and give each other a little room,” Randy says laughingly. Seriously, the family shares in responsibilities, trials and triumphs. “What makes our partnership work,” Jake says, “is that I don’t have to worry one bit about who is doing the job and whether or not it’s getting done right. We all think very much alike.” While Jim and his four sons (Randy, Terry, Kelly and Scott) primarily handle the poultry barns, Jake manages equipment sales, record-keeping and contracting for the construction projects. Before his dad got sick, Jake says he also worked in the poultry barns and hauled litter. That all changed with Troy’s illness and launched Jake into a crash course

on bookwork and accounting. Jake says once his father passed away in July of 2007, he felt the need to do more in the operation than just the bookwork, so that’s when he started selling fans for the poultry houses. One of the biggest selling factors for the equipment, Jake says, is that it’s tested. “Everything that we sell, we have used. When we build a barn, folks know we’re here to service their equipment and they know that what we sell we also use in our own houses. They like the experience that comes with the sale.” Triple P Ranch has evolved its construction company into a reputable business in the area that not only builds poultry barns, but also installs the equipment. “We have 16 houses still to build this winter,” Jake notes, adding that the business built 22

houses this past summer, 10 in Mississippi and 12 in Missouri. The litter marketing entity within Triple P Ranch sells product to row crop farmers, primarily northwest of Cole Camp. “There is tremendous demand for it,” Jake says.

the family to work together. “The beauty of a partnership is that it’s not just my decision,” Jake maintains. “We bounce ideas off each other. We hopefully make an

educated decision about what we should or shouldn’t do.” And, it would seem Troy Peaster was ahead of his time yet again...

Building Relationships The Peasters are quick to credit FCS Financial for their assistance in all phases of their operation from operating and real estate to equipment and home loans. “I really appreciated being able to go to FCS, especially during the first couple of years after dad passed away,” Jake notes. “I trusted their advice. I felt like FCS was looking out for the best interest of our business.” According to FCS Financial’s Danny Young, “I started with FCS in June of 1998 and one of the first poultry loan closings I was a part of was with Kevin Gabbert and the Peasters sitting around Troy and Carolyn’s kitchen table. I have been impressed with the forward thinking of the Peasters from that time on. They were then and still are always thinking of the future and how they can be more efficient in everything they do.”

Jake Peaster (r) visits with FCS Financial’s Danny Young (l) inside the Triple P Ranch warehouse which stores equipment for the operation’s construction business. The operation has 16 houses still to build this winter, Jake Peaster says, while 22 were constructed this past summer —10 of which were in Mississippi. Jim Peaster windrows litter inside an empty broiler barn, one of 20 on the Triple P Ranch near Cole Camp. Originally from California, the Peasters brought with them an old almond picker which has been transformed into a self-propelled cruster, which virtually eliminated clean-out by hand.

Giving Credit Devout Christians, the Peasters are quick to credit the Lord for all their blessings. While Troy Peaster could have sold his California business and retired with enough equity to live on, that wasn’t his vision. “His vision was unselfish,” Jake notes, adding that his dad wanted HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

dollars & cents

The Power of Business Planning By: Dr. David M. Kohl

Dr. David Kohl energizes agricultural lenders,

producers

and

business

persons with his keen insight into the agricultural industry through extensive

travel,

research,

exposure during his career.

and He is

Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Finance

and

Small

Business

Management and Entrepreneurship at Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA. Dr. Kohl has traveled over 8 million miles in his professional career and conducted over 6,000 workshops and seminars for a variety of agricultural audiences.

Dr. Kohl’s personal

involvement with agriculture and interaction with key industry players provide a unique perspective into the future trends of the agricultural industry and economy.

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

As the winter winds descend upon the fields and harvest comes to a close, thoughts of next year and beyond frequently occupy producers’ minds. The holiday season is a good time to dust off your computer, grab a pencil and paper, and lay out a game plan for next season and beyond. In my work as an agribusiness professional and a businessperson, I have found that developing and executing a written business plan is becoming more accepted as a practice, particularly with high level managers. The business plan can set your business ahead not only on the bottom line, but through communications with your partners, family, lenders, suppliers, and the community in which you operate. Many producers will throw up their hands and say that with the current global economy, it is too volatile to plan ahead. On the contrary, increased volatility builds a case for proactive planning and testing on paper before executing in real life. Does business planning pay? According to a Virginia Tech study, farms that developed business plans were twice as profitable measured by return on assets compared to those who did not have a written business plan. Business planning becomes even more critical for

those businesses transitioning management between partners or family members. Rate of return on assets was 32 percent higher for those businesses that had developed and executed a written plan versus those that had no plan in place. Where does one start developing a business plan? Over my kitchen table, I suggested that a father and son who met with me

“Only one in 20

Americans have written goals. This group will earn nine times as much over their lifetime...” over the holidays start with simple goal setting. I recommend each partner and spouse write down short-term and long-term goals. Short term goals are generally to be accomplished in the next year, and long-term goals focus on the next two to five years. These written goals focus on the business, family, and personal objectives that one wants to accomplish. It is amazing that very few Americans conduct the simple

The exciting part of business planning and bringing it to action is periodically comparing your projections to actual performance, which is called variance analysis. This will allow you to tweak your game plan as economic field conditions change. Many have told me that the business planning process takes too much time. Yes, in the first year it can take 40 to 60 hours to develop a full-fledged business plan, depending on the complexity of the business. However, in subsequent

years the time is reduced in half as one becomes more adept and comfortable with the process. Much of the work is just updating and tweaking last year’s plan. Yes, agriculture has many challenges, but is full of opportunities in an economic environment where the stakes are high for both failure and reward. A business plan can be a powerful tool to bring discipline to both business decisions and life aspirations, in your quest for a successful, balanced lifestyle.

Low Rates Continue

The 30-day vs. 15-Year Farm Credit Bond chart below illustrates that 30 day issues have remained at historically low levels for the last two years. These same rates remain flat as 2011 comes to an end showing little movement in the gap between long-term and short-term rates narrow. In today’s low rate environment, consider locking in historically low, fixed rates on real estate loans or other term loans in order to avoid escalating interest costs should interest rates move upward. You may also want to talk with your FCS Financial expert about loan conversion options on those loans that do not include prepayment penalties. This benefit is available to existing loan customers and is generally less costly and simpler than refinancing your loan. 30-Day vs 15-Year Farm Credit Bond 8.00

7.00

15-Year Farm Credit 30-Day Farm Credit Fed Funds Target

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5.00 All In Cost

planning process of goal setting. Eighty percent of Americans have no goals or direction in life. Sixteen percent have goals but lock them in their minds. This group earns three times as much in their lifetime, compared to those with no established goals. Only one in 20 Americans have written goals. This group will earn nine times as much over their lifetime and have much more fulfillment in life. Success in goal setting requires the ability to recognize and understand opportunities and then “pull the trigger” and execute strategy. A very important component of business planning is mapping out your operational, marketing, and risk management plans. This ranges from crop and livestock enterprises one will produce to the inputs, marketing procedures and insurances used. Does your business have current operating procedures and marketing plans documented? Where are your specific enterprises in the agriculture and business cycles, and how will this affect your plans for the next year? Once these practices are laid out, then one can develop the financial plan. If you operate an existing business, use your last three to five years of financial operating performance as a baseline. In our dairy and dairy creamery businesses, five to ten financial scenarios will be projected based upon various price, cost and interest rate estimates. With the power of electronic spreadsheets, this task can be insightful and brings global economics to the kitchen table as one attempts to place a probability on each of the financial scenarios.

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HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

life is simple We are pleased to offer Jerry Crownover’s “Life is Simple” column. Jerry is a graduate of the University of Missouri. He and his wife, Judy, own and operate a ranch west of Springfield and are FCS Financial members. We hope you enjoy Jerry’s Ozark humor and wisdom.

“What about the surgeon that’s performed three back surgeries on you in the past twenty years?” “Yeah,” I replied, “he’s a farmer on the side, but that’s just a coincidence.” I reminisced how an office visit usually took more than an hour—ten minutes talking about my bad back and fifty minutes talking cattle. “And your plumber?” she continued. “Technically, he’s not a farmer,” I answered. “But he was raised on a farm and we know his brother who is

“You’re such a farmist!” shrieked my wife. “A what?” I asked, not knowing what she had said. “A farmist,” she replied. “You know what a sexist or a racist is, right? Well, you are most definitely a farmist.” This outburst came after I had just informed her that we were switching to a new fuel supplier because his prices were quite a bit cheaper and he was “a cattleman like us.” It was that comment that drew the ire from my wife. I did my best to persuade her that I was not a ‘farmist’ but that I was cheap and that is why I had made the decision to switch suppliers. She wasn’t buying that explanation as she proceeded to list, in detail, all the people with whom I do business that are involved in some form of agriculture. 12

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still in the dairy business.” Judy smiled that ‘I’m right’ smile as she continued. “Your dentist, too.” “Well, I got you there.” I shot back. “He’s about the farthest thing you could get from a farmer. With raised eyebrows, my wife added, “Maybe not, but his receptionist that does all the scheduling is a farmer and we’ve even sold some show calves to her kids.”

Judy went on to point out the car salesmen, machinery dealers, realtors, insurance agents, feed store owners, pump repairmen, mechanics, teachers, bankers, and assorted other professionals and not-so-professionals that I deal with on a weekly basis are ALL either farmers or part-time farmers. She is absolutely convinced that I won’t do business with someone who doesn’t have a boot scraper right outside the entrance door to his or her home. She didn’t stop there as she reminded me of social events that we’ve attended in the past where I would wind up talking all evening long with the one and only other farmer that happened to be in attendance. “Good grief,” she continued, “I’ve even seen you take someone you happened to like and actually MAKE a farmer out of them over the years, just so you can retain them as a friend.” “What about the eye surgeon to correct my vision? He wasn’t a farmer,” I stated. “Jerry, I gave you that lasik surgery as an anniversary gift and the only reason you agreed to even make an appointment was to see if you could haggle him down on the price! To this day, I’m still amazed you were able to do that.” Maybe I was a farmist. “Hmmm,” Judy added, “I wonder how long you would have hung on to a city girl like me if I hadn’t moved to the farm with you and learned how to AI, pull calves, and drive a tractor.” Thoughtfully, I put my chin on my hand and replied, “Yeah, I wonder?”

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) announced that it will update the methodology to set crop insurance premiums, leading to lower insurance premium rates for many corn and soybean producers in the 2012 crop year. The rate adjustment is based on findings of an independent study and peer review process. The study is part of RMA's ongoing effort to improve the methodology of determining premium rates for crop insurance. "We are improving the formulation of our rate-making methodology, and are moving to establish the most fair and appropriate premium rates for today's producers," said RMA Administrator William J. Murphy. "On average, these new rates should reduce corn farmers' rates by 7 percent and soybean farmers' by 9 percent. As good stewards of taxpayers' dollars, we welcome the opportunity to match premium rates more accurately with current risks." RMA contracted for a study by Sumaria Systems Inc., which examined premium rates, and the rating process, starting with the United States' two major commodities: corn and soybeans. RMA then requested an

independent expert peer review to provide feedback on the Sumaria study results. RMA will conduct further review and analysis of the study's recommendations along with comments and issues raised by peer reviewers, making additional adjustments as warranted and appropriate. Accordingly, RMA is taking action to implement adjustments to premium rates in a "phased in" approach that allows for any further adjustment pending additional analysis of peer review comments. RMA periodically reviews premium rates and makes necessary adjustments for actuarial soundness, aiming to establish the most appropriate premium rates for today's producers. The current approach will make a concerted effort to adjust premium rates in a manner that recognizes the latest technology, weather and program performance information. Updated data pertaining to prevented planting, replant payment and quality adjustment loss experience was also used in determining rates changes. RMA released actuarial documents reflecting premium rates and other program information that will be effective for the 2012 spring crop season.

Important Crop Insurance Dates to Remember March 15 Last day to sign up for spring crop insurance March 15 Last day to make any changes to existing coverage April 29 Production reports due for all spring-planted crops

risk management

USDA Moving to Lower Insurance Premiums for Corn and Soybean Producers in 2012

July 1 Premiums/fees due for fall planted crops July 15 Acreage reports due for all spring planted crops Reports must be completed, signed and received by your agent July 15.

Not all counties in e Missouri will receiv miums reductions in preco . for beans and rn

s should go to Missouri crop producer ov/help/faq/ http://www.rma.usda.g to determine nonirrigatedtable.pdf s for corn and if their county premium d. beans have been reduce

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

youth in ag

Where are they now?

The FCS Financial Scholarship Recipients from 2006 Article by: Joann Pipkin

Since its inception in 2004, FCS Financial’s Scholarship Program has given away $255,000 to 255 recipients. The FCS Financial board of directors implemented the program to encourage and support higher education for relatives* of FCS Financial members. Up to 35 scholarships of $1,000 each are offered each year. FCS Financial is committed to supporting the agricultural youth of Missouri. As a cooperative, this scholarship is one of the ways FCS Financial gives back to its members and supports communities. In 2006, 30 prizes totaling $30,000 were given. Here’s an inside look at what some of 2006’s recipients are doing now five years after receiving their scholarship.

Julia Shuck It was a trip to Morocco and Egypt in the summer of 2008 that truly changed Julia Shuck’s life. One of FCS Financial’s 2006 scholarship recipients, the Perry, Mo., native has a résumé that would seem a mile long. She’s founded organizations, traveled to North Africa, covered the Beijing Olympics, has been a collegiate agricultural ambassador and now finds herself volunteering in Ghana. She’s also been named one of the Mizzou ’39, an award that names 39 graduating seniors for their excellence in scholarship, community service and service to the university. Julia Shuck’s list of accomplishments alone could land her a job anywhere, and although she hasn’t been accepted yet, her aspirations have her earning a master’s degree in International Agricultural Development with an emphasis in Community Development from the University of California-Davis. Ultimately, this young journalist hopes to work in creating or fostering a 4-H or FFA curriculum model for elementary students and transition that into young adults to provide rural children around the world with the resources and opportunities she had as a youth growing up in Missouri. “The summer of 2008 was an amazing time,” Julia writes in an email half a world away in Ghana. She began the summer by traveling with Collegiate Everyone in Ghana carries something on their heads, FFA and the U.S. Grains Council to Morocco and Egypt according to Julia Shuck, who is currently fulfilling a sixeach for one week as part of the Intercollegiate Agriculture month volunteer mission there. Here, Shuck poses with Leadership Program. Julia was one of 12 students in the U.S. a tray full of oranges. While in Ghana, Shuck works on selected to go. She describes that experience that she says writing and photography projects through the ACDI/ changed her life: VOCA ADVANCE project. “In Morocco, our guide Mustapha’s goal was to show us ‘the rich of the rich, the poor of the poor’ and how they make up Morocco. With that, he took us to a small village that was hours from any major city and we met a co-op of women who were given seven goats to have an 14

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income year-round. Because their husbands were uneducated and unskilled, they can only get seasonal work in agriculture and the women are not allowed to work outside the home. “As we got up to leave, a kind lady who couldn’t have been as old as her weathered face led on, hugged me and spoke sweetly in Arabic. Mustapha translated: she was blessing me; she wanted me to be happy and successful in life. I was humbled to the core. “This trip alone had cost more than she would see in years, yet she wanted me to be happy and successful. From that moment I went from wanting to travel the world to wanting to work in international agricultural development to hopefully one day improve the lives of her children and grandchildren.” Julia labels her two year experience as a National Collegiate Agricultural Ambassador as another highlight of her collegiate career. “During that time I gave presentations to groups ranging from elementary students on where milk comes from to Rotary Clubs in the St. Louis area on World Hunger,” Julia explains. She spoke to hundreds of people on agricultural literacy and educated elementary students on the fact that chocolate milk doesn’t come from brown cows and explained to adults what organic really does mean. Currently on a six-month volunteer mission in Ghana, Julia says her job is unique in that instead of working with farmer groups, she works with the staff of the ACDI/VOCA ADVANCE project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the Feed The Future program. Working with the field staff to write better stories and take more professional photos, Julia says she sometimes has to live vicariously through other volunteers in order to meet or work with farmers. “I know I’m making an impact because the better equipped field staff is at communicating their message, the greater chance for continued funding and the field staff reach a far greater number of farmers over their four-year project than I can ever think to genuinely help in six months.” Top: Julia Shuck sits at North Star radio listening to Sadiq, who airs a weekly ag program. The topic being discussed is a family of seven who had treated their seed for storage and didn't wait long enough, ate the seed and died. Bottom: This photo, taken by Julia Shuck, was on the cover of the 2009 Annual Review, a 64-page magazine with articles from students around the world. Currently, Shuck has worked with her academic adviser and another MU ag journalism student to create this year’s magazine as an independent study course. In this photo, the 2009-2010 IAAS European Director’s Meeting in Switzerland is pictured. HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

According to Julia, her capacity includes her working with the Agricultural Cooperative Development International/Volunteers in Overseas Cooperative Assistance (ACDI/VOCA) Farmer-to-Farmer program that brings in U.S. volunteers to work with agricultural hosts in Ghana. “I will help to create models to share volunteer experiences and lessons learned online,” she explains. “This will allow one volunteer to impact more than the farmers he or she met and others can learn from this and apply those lessons learned in Ghana in similar developing countries around the world. Without a doubt, the opportunities Julia Shuck has embraced in her collegiate career are helping shape the future of agriculture. A leader beyond words, she is making a difference in the industry that molded her being. As Julia sums up, “I want to work with farmers in developing countries because growing up in agriculture myself, I knew that times could be tough. But, no matter how bad it got, it was still a life of luxury compared to the 3 billion people living off of less than $2.50/day —75 percent of which are people who live and work in rural areas.”

Jessica Bartz

Left: Sustainable agriculture was the primary objective for Jessica Bartz’s mission trip to Ecuador. She also assisted with vacation bible school programs for a boy’s home. Today, Bartz works for the Appleton City school district in speech and language pathology. Above: FCS scholarship recipient Jessica Bartz participated in a mission trip to Ecuador. While there, she helped construct and maintain hog facilities.

A 2010 graduate from the University of Missouri with a degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Jessica is now in graduate school at the University of Central Missouri where she’s pursuing a degree in speech and language pathology and anticipates graduating in May 2012. In addition to her master’s work, Jessica is employed by the Appleton City School District where she works in speech and language pathology. While in college at MU, Jessica was part of a sustainable agriculture mission trip traveling to Ecuador. While there, she conducted a vacation bible school for a boys home and constructed and maintained swine facilities. Jessica currently lives in Rockville and is engaged to be married in the summer of 2012.

Stephen Beck A graduate of North Central Missouri College in Trenton, Stephen has an Associate of Arts degree and an Associate of Applied Science degree. He is currently working in the family farming operation which consists of a 100+ cow/ calf operation as well as 1200 acres of row crops. He’s engaged to be married to Andrea Williams and has a fouryear-old daughter, Harlee Beck.

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Travis Brinker Travis graduated from the University of Missouri in 2009 with a degree in ag business management. He currently works fulltime on his family’s farm which consists of a 2,800-sow farrowto-finish operation and 3,500 acres of row crops. By taking a fairly heavy course load at MU, Travis was able to graduate in three years with his degree enabling him to get back to the farm sooner. Travis says he and his brother are both working with their father to transition the family farm to the next generation. Travis is engaged to be married in May to Kaley Eldringhoff.

Amanda Copenhaver Amanda received an associate's degree from State Fair Community College in May 2008 and continued her education at the University of Central Missouri where in Dec. 2010 she received a B.S. in marketing. While in college, Amanda interned in the marketing department with Red Cross Pharmacy in Marshall where she did advertisements for the company’s 14 locations and maintained its social networking sites as well as did promotions. Currently, Amanda works as a pharmacy clerk at Prescription Solutions in Overland Park, Kan.

Travis Brinker by taking a heavy course load in college, he was able to graduate in three years with his degree in ag business management from the University of Missouri. Brinker is now farming full-time on the family’s farrow-tofinish hog and row crop operation.

Jenna (Gray) Cravens Jenna graduated in 2008 with an associate's degree in nursing and received her BSN in 2010. Now in graduate school through the University of Missouri’s online program, Jenna hopes to become a nurse practitioner and expects to graduate in 2015. With a strong desire to return to her home community, Jenna says she hopes to give back through her work in rural health care. In addition to studying for her doctorate in nursing, Jenna works at Cox Medical Center in Springfield in its neonatal intensive care unit.

Kate (Jarboe) Gerlemann Kate graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in ag economics, emphasis in public policy. While at MU, she worked part time at the USDA/Farm Service Agency state office in Jefferson City as well as the agricultural economics office. In 2008, Kate had the opportunity to study abroad in Ireland and Italy. Also during her collegiate career, she was a legislative intern for the Missouri Corn Growers Association

Having received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 2010, Jenna Gray Cravens is now in graduate school through the University of Missouri’s online program. Jenna hopes to give back to her home community through her work in rural health care. She aspires to be a nurse practitioner and currently works in the neonatal intensive care unit at Cox Medical Center in Springfield. HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

Kate Gerlemann studied abroad in Ireland while at the University of Missouri. She focused on agricultural economics and public policy while at MU and currently is the county executive director for Gasconade County Farm Service Agency. In her job, she assists farmers with implementing farm policy available through the farm bill.

where she assisted with lobbying and legislative issues. A 2008 Dickinson and John Brown Scholar, Kate had mini internships in both Kansas City and St. Louis where she learned about agribusiness in those cities. Additionally, she served on the MU Homecoming Steering Committee, was a member of Sigma Alpha, Collegiate Farm Bureau and the Ag Economics Club. Following her graduation from MU in Dec. 2009, Kate entered the USDA/FSA training program. In March 2011, she accepted a position as the county FSA executive director for Gasconade county and continues in that role today, working with farmers on the implementation of farm policy available through the farm bill. Kate lives in Owensville and married Gregory Gerlemann in April 2011.

Donald Fowler

With a degree in agriculture education and ag systems management from the University of Missouri, Donald is in his first year as an ag ed instructor at Madison C3 High School. While at MU, Donald was active in the Ag Ed Society and Ag Systems Management Club. He also traveled in England for two weeks as part of a study abroad program.

Jana Harding Jana graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in May 2010 with a B.S. in Animal Science/Chemistry minor. She is currently in her second year of a master's program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. At UNL, Jana is manager of the ruminant nutrition lab. Her future plans include pursuing a doctorate degree at UNL and she ultimately hopes to teach at a university or work for an agribusiness.

Kendra Hughes Kendra received an associate's degree in business administration from Crowder College in 2007. She went on to earn a B.S. in Finance in 2008 and a B.S. in Elementary Education both from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kan. While at Pitt State, Kendra was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the Finance Club. She is currently a certified teacher in special education with the Nevada school district.

Kelin Kruse Following two years at Crowder College in Neosho, Kelin went on to the University of Missouri where he graduated in 2010 with a degree in agriculture education. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now in his second year as an ag ed instructor with the Cassville school district. During his time at MU, Kelin was active in the Ag Ed Society and on the Student Development Board for the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources which helps raise money for scholarships. Additionally, he participated in activities through Christian Campus House and at Campus Lutheran Church.

Katie Morfeld Kuschel A graduate of Westminster College in Fulton, Katie played volleyball there for four years and received her degree in environmental science with a minor in business. Currently living in Chamois, Katie is married to Kurtis Kuschel. 18

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The two own a 60-acre farm, rent additional land and farm some with Kurtisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dad in a beef and dairy operation. Additionally, Katie works with her dad in his Pioneer Seed business and accepted a position this past summer with Pioneer to become a sales representative herself.

Jena Thompson Named assistant director of public relations for the American Angus Association in St. Joseph in October 2011, Jena received her degree in agricultural journalism from the University of Missouri in Dec. 2009. Prior to joining American Angus Association, Jena was with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jefferson City where she worked at the state capitol for the largest business association in Missouri serving nearly 3,000 members. While at MU, Jena interned at Missouri Farm Bureau where she wrote articles for Show Me magazine. She also gained experience as an intern at Osborn and Barr in St. Louis. A study abroad trip to Ireland through the MUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College of Agriculture Food and Natural Resources found Jena touring farms and learning about agriculture overseas.

Chris Paul Chris attended Crowder College in Neosho for two years. He is now farming 160 acres near Washburn that he purchased with help from FCS Financial. He also works for Bekaert Corporation in Rogers, Ark.

Kellie Primmer

From left: Kellie Primmer did some skydiving while studying abroad through Bond University on the Gold Coast of Australia. She obtained a minor in multi-cultural studies and traveled to Australia during college at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Kellie is now a social worker at a nursing home in Jefferson City. Here, she stands next to the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne. There was even time for snorkeling while Kellie Primmer studied abroad at Bond University. The University of Missouri graduate has a masters degree in social work and is set to take her license master social worker exam in December 2011.

Kellie received her B.S. degree in social work in 2009 from the University of Missouri and followed up with her masters in social work from MU in 2011. She is currently working at a nursing home in Jefferson City as a social worker. While at MU, Kellie studied abroad for a semester on the Gold Coast in Australia. With a minor in multicultural studies, Kellie says she was able to gain a lot of first-hand knowledge during her study there. Kellie is set to take her Master Social Worker Exam in December 2011.

Katherine Russback A preschool teacher with the Hartville school district, Katherine holds a B.S. degree in elementary and early childhood education from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar having graduated summa cum laude in May 2010. In 2007, Katherine traveled the East Coast with The Continental Singers, a Christian organization, performing in host homes and in concerts at various churches. Her future plans include starting courses toward her master's degree. HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

Tracy Sample Currently living in Farmington, Tracy is an agriculture education instructor at Farmington High School. Tracy graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in ag education. While at MU, she was a member of Sigma Alpha and studied abroad in Ireland where she toured farms and met with agriculture officials during the month-long journey.

Grant Wilburn Grant earned his undergraduate degree in biology from College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout. He is currently in his first year of vet school at the University of Missouri where he works in the office of Animal Resources. Married, both Grant and wife Marlana have interests in doing foreign mission work.

Michael Willis A graduate of Northwest Missouri State University, Michael holds a degree in broadcasting. While in college, he worked at the public radio station and also took courses in agriculture. Following graduation, Michael returned to the family crop and livestock farm in King City where he continues to work today. Michael purchased his first farm with assistance from a Farm Service Agency and FCS Financial Beginning Farmer loan.

Kristen (Wright) Clenney Kristen received her undergraduate degree in animal science from the University of Missouri. She is currently in her second year of veterinary medicine school at MU. Once named a Top 10 Senior in the University of Missouri’s Animal Science Department, Kristen Wright Clenney has been known to raise bottle calves. Wright The 2009 Missouri Beef Queen, is studying at MU to be a veterinarian and is in her second year of vet school. The Kristen traveled the state talking with former Missouri Beef Queen married John Clenney in 2010 and lives in Ashland. cattlemen and promoting the beef industry. Kristen served as president of the MU Collegiate Cattle Women and was named Top Ten Senior in MU’s animal science department. While at MU, Kristen has had internships at Laguna Niguel Animal Hospital in Laguna Niguel, Calif.; Jefferson Farm and Gardens, Columbia, Mo.; and USDA Agriculture Research Services Water and Soil Lab, Columbia, Mo. She’s also been active in Mizzou PreVet Club, Mizzou Beef Club and is a former president of Collegiate Cattle Women. Kristen married John Clenney of Ava, Mo., in July 2010 and the two live in Ashland.

Learn More and Apply for the 2012 FCS Financial Scholarship Log on to www.myfcsfinancial.com to learn more about the FCS Financial Scholarship program. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2012. The application must be completed online, however, be sure to print the Media Release form, obtain signatures and return it to FCS Financial. Call 1-855-507-2276 if you have any questions about the scholarship. *Relatives include children and grandchildren of FCS Financial members. Complete eligibility requirements are available at www.myfcsfinancial.com.

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

Progress continues on FCS Financial’s future retail facilities in Macon, Columbia, Springfield and Joplin. Moving beyond the planning stage, these locations are turning into prototype offices to support the Focused. Customized. Solutions.™ vision for FCS Financial. The current status of these projects is as follows: macon — Construction is complete and the office opened for business on November 23, 2011. An open house is being planned for March 8, 2012, in conjunction with FCS Financial’s Customer Appreciation Days and National Ag Day. The Macon retail office is located just north of the US 36 and US 63 interchange on the east side of US 63 at 509 HBC Road.

news briefs

FUTURE HOMES OF FCS FINANCIAL

A ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Macon Chamber of Commerce was held November 30 at the new FCS Financial retail facility (left). FCS Financial employees working from Macon include from left Miles Cameron, Shane Albertson, Jack Glover, Kathryn Theerman, Donna Copenhaver, Pam Ratliff, Debbie Ragsdale, Anita Dixson, and Linda Harvey.

columbia — Construction is underway with the timeline calling for substantial completion by mid-April. Mother Nature will clearly impact construction days this fall and winter which could alter this timeline. Those of you traveling north out of Columbia on US 63 will see construction activity underway. The new Columbia facility is located on the west side of US 63 on Woodard Drive in close proximity to Menards and Bass Pro Shops. springfield — Site research continues in the Springfield area. Watch for announcements regarding the site selected for the new Springfield location in the coming months.

The new facility in Columbia takes shape as a crane lifts beams into place in November (left) and exterior walls go up in December (right).

joplin — Site research continues in the Joplin area with due diligence underway on three potential locations. Watch for future announcements regarding the site selected for the new Joplin location. For more information on new facility updates call your local FCS Financial staff or visit our web site at www. myfcsfinancial.com. HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2011

$5.1 million

cash patronage to be returned to members

Celebrate with us & pick up your patronage check on March 8.

We would like to thank you for your business and celebrate the accomplishments of your cooperative. To kick off the distribution of the 2011 patronage checks, each branch office will host a Customer Appreciation Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on March 8 in conjunction with National Ag Day. Refreshments will be available. Attendance is not required for FCS Financial members to receive their check. Those checks not distributed by the end of business on March 23 will be mailed. Since 2006, FCS Financial has returned $20.7 million to members. Patronage payments are based on a member’s loan business activity with the association. All eligible members receive a minimum of $20. Each eligible member’s patronage check will be available March 8 through March 23 at the FCS Financial office where their loan is serviced.

browns win gator sponsored by fcs financial

Jered and Ashley Brown of Brighton, Mo., won the Missouri Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Excellence in Agriculture Award during the organization’s 97th annual meeting December 6 at the Lake of the Ozarks. As winner of the award, the Browns were recognized for their involvement in Farm Bureau, agriculture and their community. The Browns received a new John Deere 625i Gator, made possible by FCS Financial, a $500 check from the Missouri Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, and a $500 check from Ford Motor Company. Both Jered and Ashley are vocational agriculture teachers. Jered teaches at Marshfield R-1 and Ashley at Hermitage R-IV high schools. In September, the couple purchased 20 Holstein heifers they began milking as part of a Missouri Farm Bureau President Blake dairy owned by Jered’s father. They also harvest hay and this year bought a Hurst (left) present the Browns with the small hay baler specifically to produce and sell hay. They made 2,000 bales in first place YF&R Excellence in Agriculture 2011, most of which went to drought-stricken areas in Oklahoma and Texas. Award. They eventually plan on converting grass hay fields into alfalfa for their dairy herd. As teachers, both are in a unique position to understand what they consider an important problem today – agricultural literacy. “I feel this is an important issue because if people are properly informed about agriculture and its impact on their lives, I feel many other issues would not be as serious,” said Ashley. Other worries, such as urban sprawl and government over-regulation, would be better understood by the general public, she added. Placing second in the competition were Jonathon and Melanie Pierce of Anderson, Mo., in McDonald County. Third place went to Jason and Lacy Vandivort of Elsberry, Mo., in Lincoln County. 22

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nivens’ notes

Greetings from the Board Room:

I am surprised at times how much some borrowers expect an FCSF

board member to know. We go for months in the board room without ever seeing a member’s name. If a loan doesn’t fall out of certain parameters, it’s never brought to our attention. A board member is more likely to identify a borrower with the help of an FCSF logo on his cap. The association has such a varied array of loan products, that we are more likely familiar with those types found in our own personal loans. As a board member, we are not experienced in the mechanics of writing a loan and matching a member’s needs with a loan product. That is best left to the FCSF loan professionals.

One of our obligations as a board member is the overall financial health

of the association. Each month we look at what is referred to as the strategic

James Nivens, Chairman of the Board

objectives, an income statement, balance sheet, and operating expenses. Comparisons are made to budget, last year, and even over a period of several years. Time is spent each month with trends in credit quality, loan volume, and membership numbers. With the volatility in commodities and the financial markets of the past few years, more attention has been devoted to risk management. Making an effort to see that the loan portfolio is balanced and not an excessive amount of risk in any one commodity, type of loan, or loan size.

One of the board’s annual duties the past few years has been the consideration of a patronage dividend. The

board must first approve an obligating resolution that states we intend to make a patronage distribution the following year if financial and economic conditions are favorable. If at the end of the next year, the association has had the year that was laid out in the business plan, the board will approve a patronage declaration. I have had the advantage of writing this after our December board meeting, and I can inform you that we have made a declaration for 2011 and a patronage dividend will be made later in the spring very much similar to last year.

There’s little doubt that some of you are questioning why make a patronage dividend. Why not just lower the

interest rate in the first place? I can tell you that the same discussions have occurred in the board room. A dividend is the result of the past year’s success and not a projection of the coming year. At the beginning of each year, a business plan is put in place that helps ensure an adequate amount of capital to enable the association to grow and sufficient earnings to provide for the continued viability of the business. Currently the association is enjoying some of the highest capital levels of the past several years and very respectable earnings even in light of the lowest interest rates that many of us have ever witnessed. Loans are written and priced at a competitive rate for the benefit of our customer-owners and to provide the earnings necessary for the association. When the yearly plan comes to an end, necessary elements are met, and goals accomplished, a cooperative is expected to return some earnings to its members. Remember this is not an entitlement, it’s not always possible each year as we have found, but it is a benefit of being a customer-owner.

I hope that FCS Financial has been able to help you have a very successful year. Here’s wishing you had a very

Merry Christmas and the best of New Years.

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PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID JEFFERSON CITY, MO Permit No. 210

the protection you need from the people you trust— FCS Financial Crop Insurance Managing your business risk not only depends on having a variety of products that offer the best protection but the right person to provide accurate information and follow through. FCS Financial’s Crop Insurance Specialists have the expertise you need to make sound decisions. Before you sign on any dotted lines, visit your local FCS Financial office and discover our Focused. Customized. Solutions.™ approach to service. It’s our way of bringing the right resources to you to make your business successful. By presenting a variety of scenarios, we will help you find the exact risk management products that protect your operation and give you peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about our risk management products. Remember March 15 is the last day to sign up for spring crop insurance and to make any changes to existing coverage. Please call 1-800-444-3276, visit myfcsfinancial.com or stop by an FCS Financial office, and let us put our experience to work for you. Experts in rural financing since 1916. FCS Financial is an Equal Opportunity Provider. Focused. Customized. Solutions. is a trademark of FCS Financial, ACA.