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Farm Credit
leader Lending support to rural America速
Meet our 2015 Scholarship Winners on page 12!
volume 20 | ISSUE 2 | $3.95
All Our Customers Are Winners
s In This Issue MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA
FARM AND LAND
J. Robert Frazee, CEO MidAtlantic Farm Credit Board of Directors M. Wayne Lambertson Chairman Paul Baumgardner Vice Chairman
4 More Than an Apple a Day A.L. Kauffman & Sons in Lancaster
County, Pennsylvania continues a delicious family tradition of making apple cider, dating back 75 years.
6 AGrowing Winning Way with Corn corn is more than a job
for Harrison Ridgon of Jarrettsville, Maryland. It’s his passion, earning his family multiple awards over the years.
Deborah A. Benner Brian L. Boyd Gary L. Grossnickle Dale R. Hershey Walter C. Hopkins Anthony M. Ill T. Jeffery Jennings Fred R. Moore Dale J. Ockels Jennifer L. Rhodes Ralph L. Robertson, Jr. Alan N. Siegfried Douglas D. Scott Joseph D. Snapp Fred N. West
facebook.com/midatlanticfarmcredit @midatfarmcredit mafc.com/blog
8 Farm Women Achievements 10 The Conservation and Heritage Awards Barbara Sapp and Laura Hill, both of Sussex Butler family of Berkeley County, County, Delaware, made history in 2014 as the first women to receive the award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture.
West Virginia, has a strong commitment to agriculture, with no signs of slowing down as the new generation leads the way.
MidAtlantic Farm Credit MidAtlanticFarmCredit @midatfarmcredit
OUR ASSOCIATION
12 2015 Scholarship Winners 14 Annual Meeting Recap 17 Centennial Preparations SOCIAL
18 We Love Our Fans 19 Talkin’ Shop COMMUNITY
20 Properties for Sale 2
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questions or ideas If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Jenny Kreisher at 888.339.3334, e-mail her at jkreisher@mafc.com or write her at MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 700 Corporate Center Court | Suite L | Westminster, MD 21157. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you! The Leader is published quarterly for stockholders, friends and business associates. If you wish to no longer receive this publication, please email: unsubscribe@mafc.com. Use “Unsubscribe Leader” in the subject. The Farm Credit Administration does not require the association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to shareholders. However, copies of its complete report are available upon request or see quarterly updates online at mafc.com. The shareholders’ investment in the association is materially affected by the financial condition and results of operations of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank and copies of its quarterly financial report are available upon request by writing: Susanne Caughman | AgFirst Farm Credit Bank | P.O. Box 1499 | Columbia, SC 29202-1499 Address changes, questions or requests for the association’s quarterly financial report should be directed to: MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA by calling 800.333.7950 or writing: MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157
s president’s message
Everyone is a Winner
s events | deadlines jun event place
11-13 Kempton Country Fair
Kempton, PA
21 First day of summer jul event place
3 Independence Day (observed) Offices Closed
4 Independence Day
18-25 Washington County Ag Expo and Fair 25-26 Morgan County Fair
Sharpsburg, MD Berkeley Springs, WV
25-8/1 Delaware State Fair Harrington, DE 30-8/1 The Great Pocomoke Fair Pocomoke, MD aug event place
2-9 Berkeley County Youth Fair Martinsburg, WV 8-15 Howard County Fair
West Friendship, MD
16-22 Jefferson County Fair Ranson, WV 9-15 Clarke County Fair
Berryville, VA
10-15 Queen Anne’s County Fair Centreville, MD 15 Spring crop premiums due 28-9/7 Frederick Farm-to-Fork
Frederick, MD
We talk a lot about winners and losers: we talk about it in sporting activities, we talk about it in politics, we talk about it in every day interactions. I love the idea of competition—I think that a competitive environment can help you achieve more, and push yourself further than you thought you could go. And I certainly think that you can learn a lot from people who have received recognition in their various fields. While I like competition, I’ve noticed that as I’ve gotten older I’ve redefined my definition of what it means to win or lose. I don’t enjoy winning quite as much as I used to (unless, of course, you’re talking about college basketball, in which case, Go Terps!) As you read this issue, you’ll learn about some of our members who have been recently recognized for outstanding achievements. None of them talk about the importance of winning—it is “icing on the cake”, or a confirmation of the quality of their products and practices, but it is not a goal in itself. Like Harrison Ridgon, in Jarrettsville, Maryland, who won the National Corn Growers competition for the highest yield in the non-irrigated category in 2014. He enters not just for the $10k prize— although he says that’s nice—he enters because the contest pays off in knowledge for the following year. He’s always trying to do better— because that’s how he likes to farm. You’ll hear a similar sentiment from the Butler Family in Berkeley County, West Virginia. Their family won the Farming Heritage Award in 2010, and in 2014, they won the Conservation Farm of the Year. The water management practices that won them the recognition are their key to farming for the future. A.L. Kauffman & Sons of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania must understand that feeling too—their family has been making apple cider on their farm for 75 years. They won first place for their product in 2007, 2010, and 2014. Winning isn’t the reason for farming, but it’s a nice way to judge their cider against other blends from the Mid-Atlantic region. Finally, you’ll meet Barbara Sapp and Laura Hill, the first two women to be recognized with the Delaware Agriculture Secretary’s Award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture. Their commitment to the farming community is inspirational. You’ll also read about the inspiring students who won scholarships in our annual contest. When I think that I’m busy, I read their biographies, and I find myself inspired to do more. These students are great examples of work ethic, volunteerism, and academic achievement. Speaking of achievements, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Farm Credit is heading towards their 100th anniversary in 2016. We’re planning a series of events nationally—ad campaigns, historic overviews, and even a contest for outstanding farming advocates. In this issue, we’re looking for Farm Credit memorabilia—but you’ll hear even more about the details once we kick off our 99th year in July. I know that this is a busy time of year on the farm, but I hope you’ll take a break and sit down and enjoy this issue of the Leader. Consider it “recognition” for all the hard work you do! Thank you, as always, for supporting your cooperative—
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FARM AND LAND
Kauffman family serves up more than an apple a day
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The A.L. Kauffman and Sons board of directors includes several generations of Kauffmans who keep the orchard, cider operation and market running smoothly.
Cider production manager Tony Kauffman, fourth generation family member who is directly involved in the business, monitors state-of-the-art cider making equipment.
After apples apples are selected for just the right blend of sweet and tart, they’re washed and pressed for cider.
| Many family companies begin with the vision of a single, dedicated person. That person is responsible for originating concepts, motivating others and ensuring that the family can continue in the business. That’s the case with Amos L. Kauffman, founder of A.L. Kauffman & Sons in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Story by Sally Colby, Photos by Sally Colby and The Kauffman Family
In the early 1900s, Kauffman, known as A.L., and his wife Sue purchased 90 acres of fertile ground in the Bird-In-Hand area and started farming. As a creative entrepreneur, A.L wanted to use some of his acreage to establish an apple orchard. Although he was criticized for using valuable tobacco ground for apple trees, he persevered. In 1915, A.L.’s hard work was rewarded with his first harvest. A.L. successfully grew and harvested apples for several years, realizing that it takes time to become established in the fruit business. However, trying to farm during the Great Depression was more challenging than he could have predicted. Tough economic times meant few customers, and apples rotted in the tobacco cellar. A.L. was discouraged, but he didn’t give up. He knew that he could sell fresh fruit from the farm, and decided 4
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to take advantage of the road frontage afforded by his farm property. Once the economy improved, A.L. constructed a roadside stand along Old Philadelphia Pike, also known as Route 340. The stand was a convenient place for local residents and visitors to stop in and purchase fruit. A.L. continually came up with ideas about how to expand his business to employ both family and community members. In 1937, he built a packinghouse along that same road. Fourth generation family member and cider production manager, Tony Kauffman, says that the facility provided space to process and pack fruit for wholesale and retail markets. A.L. Kauffman & Sons started making cider about 75 years ago, but when concerns arose over the safety of raw cider, the Kauffmans had a tough decision to make. Tony recalls the mid-1990 discussions about whether or
not the company should add pasteurization to the cider making process. Harlan Kauffman, who managed the cider operation at the time, was in favor of pasteurization and led in the implementation of the process. “Our sales took off year after year,” said Tony. “It expanded our market. Pasteurization increased shelf life, and people realized that it still tasted good.” Tony explains that the flash pasteurization process involves rapid heating to 160 degrees for ten seconds, followed by quick cooling. When it comes to selecting varieties for apple cider, Tony says that more apple varieties in a blend make the best cider. “The key is consistency in both variety and in the sweet to tart ratio,” he said. “That ratio changes somewhat depending on the time of year.” Tony explains that in September and October, apples are ripe when they’re picked, but are still
kauffmansfruitfarm.com facebook.com/KauffmansFruitFarm KauffmansFruitFarmBirdinHand/posts Kauffmansfruit @kauffmansfruitfarm
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A modern storage facility ensures fresh apples for year-round cider.
considered green. Sugars aren’t high, so the fall blend will include more sweet apples—often 15 or more varieties. Through spring and summer, after apples have been in storage, the blend will feature six to eight tart apple varieties. “Red Delicious are one of the best apples for cider,” said Tony. “Other sweet apples are Gala, Golden Delicious and Fuji. The primary tart apples are McIntosh and Stayman.” In order to keep the cider as consistent as possible, Tony monitors the apple supply throughout the year. Although he does an occasional taste-test, he says that blend is consistent and produces reliable results. A.L. Kauffman & Sons produces about 400,000 gallons of cider every year. One of the most challenging aspects of a year-round cider operation is the fact that cider is a seasonal beverage, and people start to purchase it as summer ends. In fall, the presses operate every day to keep up with apples being harvested. During the rest of the year, presses run twice a week. “We would like to increase our spring and summer sales, but apple cider is so
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After apples are pressed for cider, the remaining pulp, or cake, is used by several local farmers as part of a dairy ration.
The retail store is filled with fresh fruit, and stocks a variety of apples and apple cider year-round.
seasonal,” said Tony. “Everybody wants to buy it in fall. At that time, our equipment and personnel are maxed out making cider.” The cider pressing operation is fairly simple, with squeeze box presses that force every drop of juice from the apples. The material that’s left after pressing is distributed to several local farms and included as part of a balanced ration for dairy cattle. After flash pasteurization, cider is ready for bottling. Bottles are then capped, labeled, dated, and crated for distribution. Kauffman’s cider is well-known throughout the region, and is a popular market item. But loyal customers aren’t the only ones who give Kauffman’s cider a thumbs-up. An apple cider contest held during the Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Convention in Hershey features ciders from commercial fruit growers in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia, and West Virginia. Ciders are judged on specific criteria including appearance, color, aroma, sweetness, tartness, sugar to acid ratio, flavor, body, bitterness, and overall impression. A.L. Kauffman & Sons cider was awarded
first place in 2007, 2010 and 2014. Farm Credit has been instrumental in ensuring steady growth for A.L. Kauffman & Sons since 1999. Two significant projects include a 30’ x 50’ addition to the north side of the packing shed, which also expanded the retail store, and an expansion to the cider processing facility that opened up space for an additional press and three bulk tanks in 2006, and a renovation of the retail market in 2008. In addition to producing award-winning cider, A.L. Kauffman & Sons draws customers with fresh market apples, a selection of fruit butters, and dried apples, or schnitz. A summer favorite is apple cider donuts that are made between July 4th and Thanksgiving. The donuts are made just outside the farm market, and the tempting aroma attracts customers. You might be wondering—how much apple cider does it take to keep the doctor away? Each gallon of cider is made from the juice of 20 to 30 apples—a sure bet for a healthy drink any time of year! l VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 2 | mafc.com | 5
FARM AND LAND
Harrison Rigdon has a winning way with corn | The Rigdon family has been farming in Jarrettsville, Maryland since 1728, when they received a land grant from King George II of England. The original parchment declaration, signed by Lord Calvert, governor of Maryland, hangs in a simple black frame on the wall of the home office that Harrison Rigdon, 28, shares with his parents, John and Andy.
story and photos by susan walker
He achieved that enviable yield by planting a higher population of 37,000 seeds per acre and choosing Pioneer hybrid P1498AM1, a seed he felt was a good match for the soil he was working with. Harrison also treated the seed with root growth stimulator and increased the number of fertilizer applications to keep the corn healthy and green for as long as possible. Although he got a late start planting because of a very cold, wet spring, overall the weather during the growing season was another key factor for higher yields. There was consistent rain throughout the season once the weather warmed up, which made 2014 an almost ideal growing season. “How you plant the seed is also very important,” he explains. “I planted at a
Harrison Rigdon says farming is his passion and At the age of just five, Harrison won a and Land he hopesFarm to expand his family’s acreage and ribbon at the Maryland State Fair for the production in the coming years. Indian corn he grew.
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slower speed, 2.5 miles per hour, and a deeper depth, three inches, even though it takes longer to get the seeds in the ground. That approach seems to have a positive effect on the crop because you get a better root system.” Harrison is the 11th generation of his family to work the farm in Jarrettsville. Their farmland includes the original 1,000 acres in Harford County granted to the family in 1728, but over the generations the Rigdon’s acreage has grown and diversified. Today, they farm 2,000 acres on three farms in Harford County and two farms in Cecil and Kent Counties. They recently purchased another farm and worked with Farm Credit loan officer Keith Wills to finance that property. Notes Keith, “We’ve been working with the Rigdons Over the years, Harrison, his father and his grandfather have won numerous regional and national awards, but the 2014 award is their first national first place.
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On shelves that circle the room, there’s more farm history—decades worth of trophies won regionally and nationally for outstanding corn yields. The newest trophy, the 2014 National Corn Growers Association award for highest yield in the non-irrigated category, belongs to Harrison. “My father and I have been entering the National Corn Growers competition for 20 years,” says Harrison. “My dad won third place in 2011 and I won the same award in 2013. We’ve won several state first place awards for our yield, but this is the first time anyone in the family has won a national first place award.” While the national average yield per acre for feed corn is 174 bushels, Harrison’s winning yield was 353.44 bushels, more than double that average.
rigdonfarms.com facebook.com/pages/ Rigdon-Farms/126333847452092
for at least 20 years. They’re focused on taking the steps needed, financially and agriculturally, to be able to continue the family’s legacy of successful farming well into the future.” Adds Harrison, “Having those acres on the Eastern Shore, where there’s a different climate and different soil, lets us manage risk better. The growing season starts earlier there and the weather is different. If it’s a drier season in Harford County, it may be a wetter one in Cecil or Kent, so we can still have a strong growing season overall.” Harrison’s grandfather and greatgrandfather used to grow and can tomatoes on the home farm in Harford County. The canning house still stands on the property and one of the colorful labels from their canned goods hangs on the family’s office wall, a reminder of the diversity and change that the family farm has undergone over the generations. Today, in addition to about 1,200
acres of corn, Rigdon Farms also grows approximately 600 acres of soybeans, wheat and barley. The Rigdons produce hay and straw, and Harrison’s mother Andy raises 100 head of grass-fed Black Angus and feeder cattle. The family also grows summer produce, including asparagus, rhubarb, pick-your-own blueberries, ornamental fall pumpkins, gourds, Indian corn, and mums, which they sell seasonally at their produce stand on the farm. Harrison has been farming fulltime since he graduated from North Harford High School in 2005, but he’s been working on his family’s farm all his life. “Farming is my passion,” he says. “I love being outdoors and every day, you’re doing something different. It’s never boring.” Asked why he enjoys entering contests like the National Corn Growers Association Yield Contest, he says it’s not just about the $10,000 credit from
Pioneer, the contest’s first prize, though that is a nice amount to reinvest into the farm in the form of seeds. Another part of the prize is a trip to the Commodity Classic trade show in Phoenix, Arizona, where Harrison says he has the chance to see what other farmers are doing and learn about new hybrids, equipment, fertilizers, and other products showcased by exhibitors. “Part of competing is about the bragging rights. I want people to see my fields and say, ‘Wow that looks good!’ But what’s even more important is that the contest fields allow us to experiment with new products and practices. When we find something that works well, we can modify it so it’s financially feasible for the whole farm and we can increase our overall yields to optimum levels,” Harrison notes. “Growing the corn for the contest is a lot of hard work, but it really pays off in what we learn and what we can apply to the next year’s crop.” l
On the farm, many of the original buildings still stand, including a summer kitchen family lore says may have been a stop on the Underground Railroad.
Harrison is the eleventh generation of his family to farm the acreage in Jarrettsville.
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FARM AND LAND
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Farm Credit loan officer Ron Lindale and Barbara Sapp enjoy a moment of sunshine on a chilly early spring day. Ron says the Sapps run a successful operation so “they don’t need me very often.”
Goats belonging to Cape Henlopen High School keep things jumping on the Sapp farm. Students are graded on their care of the animals.
Barbara’s daughter-in-law Michele Sapp holds a member of the Cape Henlopen High School goat herd.
Farm Women’s Achievements earn Delaware’s praise Story and photos by Nancy L. Smith
| Each year, the Delaware Agriculture Secretary’s Award for Distinguished Service to
Agriculture recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to Delaware agriculture. Recipients of the award have included poultry producers, a former Delaware secretary of agriculture, grain farmers, dairymen, federal employees, and a journalist.
But no woman had won the honor until 2014 when two Sussex County women were recognized for their exceptional accomplishments. Barbara Sapp of Milton and Laura Hill of Lewes, both Farm Credit members, were honored for their on-going support of agricultural activities, primarily through the Delaware Farm Bureau. Both women are active in farming and are similar in many ways. They share the same Farm Credit loan officer, Ron Lindale of the Georgetown, Delaware office and both grow peas and lima beans for processing. Barbara’s family owns its own harvesters so they can get the crop to market as soon as it is ready, rather than waiting for a custom harvester. Both are part of a multigenerational farm. Barbara and her husband Richard 8
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farm with their son and grandson, growing barley and wheat, followed by corn and soybeans, on 2,500 to 2,800 acres. Laura and Roland Hill, Jr. farm with their two sons, Jerad and Roland, III, tilling about 2,000 acres, down from about 2,800 in previous years. Laura and her husband grow large broilers for Mountaire Farms in houses with a placement capacity of 108,000 birds, but contract out the day-to-day management. “We still control the manure because we use it on our land,” Laura notes. Barbara says she grew chickens before she was married, but “Hurricane Hazel in 1954 put an end to that.” The family still keeps a hand in livestock production, raising cattle as a hobby and for beef.
Both Barbara and Laura are deeply involved with Farm Bureau, volunteering to do whatever is needed. Barbara has served on the state and county Farm Bureau boards, as well as on the nutrient management, inland bays, and women’s committees. Laura is first vice president of the Delaware Farm Bureau and has served on the nutrient management commission for seven years. “I never hesitate to speak up about my passion for agriculture,” she says. Barbara has operated and managed the Farm Bureau concession stand at the Delaware State Fair, with responsibility for ordering supplies, and cooking and selling for the ten days of the fair. She is now assisted by 4-H and FFA members, but her continuing deep commitment to the project is reflected in her admission “We camp there each year now.”
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Ron and Laura review plans for a new storage and shop building at the Hill farm. A new office for Laura Hill will “get me out of the basement.” The building will be owned by Farm Credit leasing until it is paid off, yielding “a big tax advantage for the Hills,” says Ron.
Laura has assumed Barbara’s leadership role with the concession stand. She explains the concession stand generates significant revenues that are pumped back into the agricultural community. “We donate $5,000 to the FFA and 4-H groups who work the booth. Another $6,000 is earmarked for scholarships,” she says proudly. Goats are another commonality the women share. When Barbara’s grandson asked if the high school FFA could keep a small herd of Nigerian dwarf goats on the farm, little did she know it would blossom into a long-term project for her and her family. Now, five years into the project, some high school classes are held on the farm and Cape Henlopen High School students come twice a day year-round to milk the goats. Barbara’s daughter-in-law Michele Sapp feeds the goat herd which has grown to include meat goats as well as the original milk goats. Students, “many of whom are not farm children,”
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In addition to barley, wheat and goats, Barbara’s farmyard hosts a handsome donkey.
Laura and Roland’s spacious home was built with a Farm Credit loan.
according to Barbara, foster the baby goats at home, bottle-feeding them from birth. Students make soaps and lotions out of milk that is not fed to the kids, take goats to nursing homes to visit residents, and some 12 to 15 students show goats at the fair each year. Laura’s farm also hosts a herd of pygmy goats belonging to her granddaughter Blair Hill. Both women live in Sussex County, one of the fastest growing counties in the eastern United States. In the last 10 years, the population has grown almost 15 percent. The county is granting about 2,000 building permits annually, allowing room for new homes, schools and shops. Both Laura and Barbara’s farming operations have been impacted by the county’s growth. A new neighborhood abuts Barbara’s home. “We used to till that property. The owner said he would offer the property to us when he was ready to sell, but he was getting a million dollars from a developer,” effectively putting the
Sapps out of contention for the land. “We have good relations with our new neighbors,” she says. Laura also says, “We are losing ground to development.” She points to a large wooded tract about a quarter mile from her home. “That is 100 plus acres under contract for development, including 20 tillable acres we farm,” she said. Neither Barbara nor Laura are about to retire from the farm, but their activities continue to change. Laura notes, “We are talking seriously about slowing down, but I don’t see us stepping out entirely. The biggest challenge is finding someone to take over my job; bookkeeping and regulatory paperwork has increased so much.” Barbara says, “I used to drive the truck—whatever they needed—five or six loads a day—and I used to run the grain dryer. My grandson does all the planting now, but Richard never plans to retire. We’ll always be in farming in some way.” l
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FARM AND LAND
West Virginia farmers recognized with conservation, heritage awards
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Butler Farms in Berkeley County, West Virginia, operated by Bill Butler (right) and his son Todd, received the Farming Heritage Award from the State Fair of West Virginia and the West Virginia Farm Bureau in 2010.
Todd and Bill have framed photos from a recent Wounded Warrior Hunt held at their farm for veterans from Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
Todd is checking on two of his spring calves from the Angus based herd of 140 brood cows.
story and photos by Star Traylor
| Ten years ago, houses were popping up faster than rows of corn and soybeans in Berkeley
County, West Virginia. In an era when many farmers and landowners were selling their land to developers, Bill Butler and his family were figuring out ways to expand their Inwood, West Virginia farm so it would continue to operate for generations to come.
Bill’s grandparents, James and Emma Butler, purchased 212 acres in 1919, naming their farm Willowbrook. Now known simply as Butler Farms, it is currently the 900-acre site of a family agri-business operation that includes raising cattle, an apple orchard and hunting preserve. The Butlers also grow corn, wheat and soybeans, and rent portions of their scenic farm for social functions and photo shoots. Bill and his wife JoAnn own and operate the farm with their son Todd, whose wife Tari Jo is also involved. Bill and JoAnn have seven grandchildren, two of whom are studying agriculture. Neither Bill nor his son Todd ever thought about pursuing another career. “I knew when I went to high school I was going to be a farmer,” Bill says. “It’s a problem I read about now—nobody wants to be a farmer.” 10
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Bill said it may be because of the hard work and long hours. “You have to get up early, work the farm and don’t quit until the job’s done,” he says. The Butlers were honored in 2010 with the Farming Heritage Award from the State Fair of West Virginia and the West Virginia Farm Bureau. Last year, they received the West Virginia Conservation Farm of the Year Award from the West Virginia Conservation Partnership. WVU Extension agent Doug Hovatter nominated the Butlers for the Heritage Award, which is given to a West Virginia farmer with a commitment to a rural lifestyle, who is involved in the community and serves as a role model for others in the state. Nominees for the Conservation Farm of the Year Award were evaluated based on land use, management practices and community involvement.
Because Butler Farms is located in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, there are numerous requirements for erosion and water management, Todd says. Meeting those requirements is a major part of environmental conservation at the farm. The Butlers have been customers of Farm Credit for many years, using credit to expand their property for their cattle. Loan officer Scott Swaim, a former agriculture teacher, has become a family friend. “This was the first farm Scott was on in Berkeley County,” Todd says. “Scott gave me my first loan to buy cows when I graduated from college.” The family ended a dairy operation on the farm in 2000. They currently have an Angus-based herd of approximately 140 brood cows and about 80 acres of orchards dedicated to growing York, Rome, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, and Enterprise apples. Apples grown at
wvabirdhunt.com/Home_Page.php
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Farm Credit loan officer Scott Swaim (left) talks to Todd at Butler Farms. Scott has known the Butler family for years and gave Todd his first loan to purchase cattle.
the farm go to processors—Knouse Foods in Pennsylvania and Bowman Andros in Mount Jackson, Virginia,—to be turned into juice, apple sauce and slices. In addition to expanding their farming operations with more land for their cattle, the Butlers added agri-tourism to their business in 2001 by opening about 300 acres of their property to hunters. Every year, they release almost 25,000 upland game birds including quail, chucker and pheasant, for hunters. Groups of hunters reserve time at the farm where they can stay overnight on hunting trips. Between 2,500 and 3,000 hunters visit the farm annually; most come between October and March. One of the Butlers’ most wellknown clients is United States Senator Joe Manchin, who recently spoke at a Wounded Warrior hunt on the farm for a group of veterans from Walter Reed Army Medical Center. “He’s been on this farm at least ten times,” Bill says of the Senator from West Virginia. The Butlers have also made portions
Left to right: Bill, daughter-in-law Tari Jo, and Todd talk with Scott Swaim as the Butlers check on the cattle at their farm. Bill owns the farm with his wife JoAnn and operates it with Todd. The farm has been in the Butler family since 1919. In 2001, the Butlers dedicated about 300 acres of their land to a hunting preserve.
of the farm available for weddings, church functions and photo shoots, and they offer free fishing on their property when the state stocks their stream with trout. “When they put fish in there, it’s not unusual to see ten cars down by the water,” Bill says, referring to the stream that crosses the property. The greatest reward of farming, Bill believes, is being your own boss. Another benefit that comes to mind in an area where many people commute two hours to and from work in Washington, D.C, is working at home—or, close to it, anyway. Bill lives a mile from his farm and Todd lives within walking distance. His sister Karen lives on the property and cooks meals for the hunters who stay there. Last October, the Butlers hosted their first cattle sale, selling 65 show calves and bred heifers. Videos of the cows were shown on big-screen televisions during the auction. Todd says he was nervous about how the sale would go and how many people would attend, but proactive marketing through mail, fair catalogs and social media helped
make it successful. “The girls said they figured they fed four or five hundred people that day,” Todd says. The second annual sale is already planned for the second Sunday in October. Social networking and the internet have added a new dimension to farming, the Butlers say. They purchase cow embryos online—something Bill’s grandparents couldn’t have imagined when they bought the farm in 1919. “It’s opened avenues where we can buy cattle—the genetics that we’re after —from all over the country,” says Todd. The toughest part of the business has always been the book work, says Bill. “There’s a lot of regulation stuff we have to keep track of now,” Todd adds. Development has slowed in Berkeley County since the demand for housing began to decline in 2008. The Butlers don’t get as many requests from people interested in buying the land as they did 10 years ago, and they look forward to keeping the farm in the family, regardless of the housing market. l VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 2 | mafc.com | 11
OUR ASSOCIATION
The sweetest part of being a Farm Credit member-borrower is being able to share in our association’s profits through patronage distributions—there is nothing sour about extra money in your pockets! This year alone, we’ve distributed over $26 million in cash, bringing our patronage distribution total to $300
million since 1990! How sweet is that? Not sure how patronage works? At the end of each fiscal year, Farm Credit determines its total income and expenses. Income remaining after all expenses are deducted (the net income) can then be distributed in accordance with the association’s bylaws. The board of directors can elect to retain all of the net income to strengthen the association’s capital position, or distribute some, or all, of the net income to members by declaring a dividend on stock or declaring a patronage refund.
We’ve put together a fun video to help break it down. Visit mafc.com/ patronage-program.php to see just how patronage works.
We can think of a million ways we’d use a little extra cash—maybe take a dream vacation, finish some home renovations, or put it toward a new car. We want to know how YOU use your patronage! Send your stories to Jenny Kreisher (jkreisher@mafc.com) and you could be featured in an upcoming issue of the Leader!
Calendar Photo Contest Deadline is August 16th! Are you a budding photographer? Or, maybe you just like taking photos of your surroundings or community? Snap a picture and submit it to MAFC for a chance to be featured in our 2016 calendar! If you don’t make it into the calendar, don’t worry! We may feature your picture in an upcoming issue of the Leader, our annual report, or on Facebook. Contest rules and the submission form can be found at mafc.com/photo-contest.php. Start snapping!
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ISO: Farm Credit Memorabilia As some of you may know, July 2016 marks Farm Credit’s centennial celebration! In preparation for this huge milestone, we’re collecting photographs, apparel, paperwork, and other items dating back to the beginning.
Who better to go to for help in our search that our customers and loyal fans! If you have any of these items, or anything that you feel might add to our round-up, please email Jenny Kreisher at jkreisher@mafc.com.* We’d love to see what you have to share and help us take a trip down memory lane to mark this momentous occasion! We’ll be sharing photos of items, as well as the history of the Farm Credit System, on our website. Visit mafc.com/fc100.php for more details on our centennial celebration plans! *Don’t worry—any items you provide will be photographed and returned!
Our Award-Winning Directors Congratulations to two of our outstanding board members on their recent awards! Jenny Rhodes was presented the Distinguished Citizenship Award at a recent Delmarva Poultry Industry (DPI) banquet. She is a poultry grower in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland and an ag educator. Jenny served at President of DPI in 2013 and remains a member of the organization’s environmental and government relations committees. Alan Siegfried was inducted into the 2015 class of the American Hall of Distinguished Audit Practitioners. He was former chairman of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) North American Board, member of the Certification Board, and founding chair of the Exam Development Committee. Alan is also a longtime member of the Baltimore Chapter of IIA, where he served in various offices including President, and is currently a member of the Chapter Board.
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Talkin’ Shop MidAtFarmCredit @MidAtFarmCredit
MidAtFarmCredit @MidAtFarmCredit
We want to know about your favorite winning fair moment!
What is your favorite thing about the county or state fair you attend? The fair food! Sandy Urian Clayton, Delaware
Watching my children in the show ring and catching up with other farm families in Queen Anne County!
Our daughter Hannah won the Sweepstakes Bowl at Queen Anne County Fair in 2014.
Jen Quimby Mansfield Centreville, Maryland
Watching the faces of the children who aren’t lucky enough to grow up on a farm as they look at the livestock, poultry, etc.
Bev Long Princess Anne, Maryland
Staying at the fair and spending the week helping our daughter with the beef cows she shows. And being with my 4-H family. Jody Dulin Story Barclay, Maryland
Jody Dulin Story Barclay, Maryland
Our daughters showed award-winning hogs at the Delaware State Fair. Sandy Urian Clayton, Delaware
Reuniting with all my old 4-H friends! Rachel Story
The animals and seeing folks we do not see much. Carol Cunningham Brown
Don’t see your answer? Not to worry! We’ll be asking more questions soon, so follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and watch for your chance to be featured in our next issue! volume 20 | issue 2 | mafc.com | 19
COMMUNITY
Felton, Delaware
Centreville, Maryland
Dovington Training Center. Beautiful 92 acre horse farm, 300 stalls, state-of-the-art training center convenient to Mid-Atlantic tracks. 5/8th USTA certified training track, indoor 32’ equine pool, six-horse covered exerciser, ancillary buildings, 33 one-acre paddocks, and 22 40’ x 80’ paddocks. $2,200,000. Contact Sharon Faries, Patterson Schwartz Realty, 302.242.3393.
Newark, Delaware 48 +/- acres located just west of Newark and Glasgow, and north of Route 40. The tract is fully wooded with mature trees and rolling topography. This is an opportunity to own a rarely available large piece of ground in New Castle County. There are recorded restrictions against development. $455,000. Contact Wes Cromer, Masten Realty, LLC, 302.448.1032.
Centreville, Maryland
Ellicott City, Maryland
Great country setting! Recently updated kitchen and bathrooms, fresh paint , new HVAC unit, Corian counters, large deck overlooking the in-ground pool. Large detached 30’ x 30’ garage with water and electric, all on just under two acres. No restrictions, private and yet still close for commuting. $319,500. Contact Chris Rosendale, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.
Hagerstown, Maryland Land in the Williamsport School District: 3.91 acres with spring on the back of the lot. Additional private 2.8 +/- acres partially wooded lot is also available for an additional cost. $125,000. Contact Florence Wise, Coldwell Banker Innovations, 301.745.1504.
Golts, Maryland
Incredibly well-maintained four bedroom Colonial situated on 5+ acres just outside of Centreville. Offering fully fenced perimeter that’s ready for your horses, first floor master suite, two-story family room, kitchen with granite and wood floors, rear covered patio, fire pit, and much more. $549,900.
Truly unique Victorian equestrian estate on seven picturesque acres. The classic charm you expect with the modern convenience you need. Pastoral views of Howard County on a private lane and convenient to Baltimore and DC. Renovated inside and out. Five bedrooms, four and a half baths, three fireplaces. Soaring great room. Full lower level apartment, and six car garage/barn. $1,295,000.
Contact Bryan Wieland, Benson and Mangold Real Estate, 410.829.5913.
Contact Shari Arciaga, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 443.472.9588.
Galena, Maryland Horse farm with 90+/- acres. Barn with 36 stalls, fenced paddocks, several buildings, and run-in sheds. Beautiful country location near Route 301. Approximately 57 acres tillable/fenced with several paddocks. Farm backs to woods. $630,000. Contact David Leager, Sassafras River Realty, 410.778.0238.
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Kent County, Maryland location. 152.93 acre farm currently in nursery production. Potential of 115 acres tillable, large gravel pit, pond, and irrigation well with water appropriation permit. Excellent soils for crop production. Also ideal for deer, turkey or waterfowl hunting. $898,000. Contact Joe Hickman, Cross Street Relators, 410.778.3779.
Secluded horse ranch with a view. New custom barn with six stalls open to paddocks, heated tack room, hot/cold wash stall, feed and storage rooms. Fenced pasture with run-in. Spring-fed creek and trails. Custom home with whole house back-up generator and security system. $1,250,000. Contact Jim Bass, Real Estate Teams, 301.695.0000.
Beautiful oasis. No corners cut to make this home one of a kind. Hardwood floors, open floor plan, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, granite counters with bar, tile back splash, large laundry room, vaulted ceilings, paver patio, and built-in book shelves. Custom bonus room and in-ground pool. $329,900. Contact Melissa Perron, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.
Lewistown, Maryland
Middletown, Maryland
North East, Maryland
140+ acres with stunning views of the Catoctin Mountains. Level farm land (approximately 105 tillable acres), fencing for animals, and an active stream. The original four-bedroom, one bath farmhouse is tenant occupied. Has a 120’ x 54’ Morton building and bank barn. Three additional adjacent building lots included. Not in preservation. $1,400,000.
Lot #4 in Fox’s Tavern, a four lot subdivision with spectacular countryside and mountain views. 10.23 acres, perc approved for a five bedroom dwelling, two wells. Includes large bank barn, tractor shed, and pond. Convenient commuter location just outside Middletown. Call for a copy of the plat and any questions. $225,000.
Two acres of property backs to farmland for added privacy. Gourmet kitchen, open floor plan. Daylight basement is ready to bring the in-laws. Full bath in basement and rough-in for a second kitchen. Each of the four bedrooms has its own private bath. Heated in-ground pool. Outdoor fireplace. Custom built. $599,900.
Contact Jennifer Grove, Bach & Associates, Inc., 301.695.9600.
Contact Buzz Mackintosh, Mackintosh Inc. Realtors, 240.529.0176.
Contact Melinda Wimer, Harlan C. Williams, Co., 410.287.3691.
Queen Anne, Maryland
EQUAL HOUSING
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY Work close to home on this quaint 13 acre poultry farm! Raise chickens in your own backyard in the completely updated and functional poultry house. Original farm house completely updated. Property beautifully maintained. Minutes away from 213/301. REALTOR Great for investment! $350,000. ®
EQUAL HOUSING
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Sudlersville, Maryland
Taneytown, Maryland
Home surrounded by large woods in park-like setting excellent for hunting. 40’ x 28’ upgraded pole building. Cabin for camping and/or storage. Inside the home you’ll find an open floor plan, wood floors, cathedral ceilings, screened-in porch, and a finished bonus room with separate entrance. 29 acres with more available. $499,500.
Lovely historic four-five bedroom stone Colonial overlooking your own Koi pond with footbridge on 19 acres in Carroll County. This stone home has a sunny spacious solarium, large country kitchen, patio, front porch and upper balcony. Workshop, stable and gazebo. A must see! $324,900.
Contact Gretchen Wichlinski, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.
Contact Karen Carroll, Haines Realty, 410.375.8898.
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
Contact Megan Rosendale, Rosendale Realty, 410.758.0333.
Properties for sale
Henderson, Maryland
Frederick, Maryland
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COMMUNITY
Need financing for any of these properties? Call your local Farm Credit office. All of the properties listed on these pages are offered for sale by local, licensed Realtors and Auctioneers. MidAtlantic Farm Credit is not affiliated with these properties, nor are we responsible for content or typographical errors. Please call the Realtor or Auctioneer listed for more information. Sudlersville, Maryland
Smithsburg, Maryland
64 acre farm; 23 open acres and 41 wooded acres. Two perc sites, with subdivision potential. 40’ x 30’ pole barn with electric. A 16’ x 12’ run in shed. Barn with two horse stalls. Electric fencing. Pastures and multiple horse trails in the woods. Seven deer stands are on the property. Double-wide on property is in good condition. Two ponds. Fantastic deer and turkey hunting location. $519,000. Contact Dawn Kyle, Champion Realty, 410.310.5899.
Westminster, Maryland
Let Insignia Homes build your new house on this greatly reduced 1.5 acre home site in Middletown High School district! Convenient to Frederick and Hagerstown. Financing can be obtained through Farm Credit. $60,000. Contact Betsy Cain, Mackintosh, Inc., 301.748.3694.
Westminster, Maryland Spectacular one-of-a-kind rural estate in upcoming Morgan Brook Farm. 48+ acre site offers privacy and forested boundaries, balanced with open rolling fields and a home site resting on a raised knoll. Central location with access to rural counties, DC and Baltimore. $599,900. Contact Tim McIntyre, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, 443.250.6618.
East Greenville, Pennsylvania
Fleetwood, Pennsylvania
Horse farm on 14 acres in southern Lehigh County. Six stall barn with heated tack room and wash stall. Large pastures, run-in shed and surrounded by 300 acres of preserved farmland. The 4,500 square foot home has custom cabinets, two fireplaces and an in-law suite. Detached garage with car lift and wood shop. $750,000. Contact Barbara Winn, Keller Williams, 484.547.3098.
Landenberg, Pennsylvania
61 acres and priced to sell. Attractive brick Colonial farm house circa 1800s, acreage consists of four separate deeded parcels, beautiful rolling land with frontage on county maintained paved road. Not in farmland preservation. $525,000.
70+ acres of vacant land close to Fair Hill Training Center. Combination of open ground with some woods. In Chester County Ag Preservation Program (limited to one home). $799,000.
Contact Larry E. Haines, Haines Realty, 410.876.1616.
Contact Christ W. Taylor, Beiler-Campbell Realtors, 717.786.8000.
Palmyra, Pennsylvania
19+ acre horse farm with three-bedroom house, large outdoor riding arena, three large run-in sheds. 4.9 acres with riding arena and 14+ acres with house can be purchased separately. $548,700. Contact Kore Fisher, Beiler-Campbell Realtors, 717.587.2539
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1803 stone farmhouse on 17 acres. Light industrial/residential zoning. Three stone fireplaces, five bedrooms, two and a half baths. The family room features a wet bar and an adjoining 28’ x 25’ all season room with a view of the outdoors. The open fields and wooded areas allow for entertainment on a large scale. $425,000. Contact Maurizio Peta, GKS Brown Realty Services, 484.220.0099.
Quakertown, Pennsylvania
Approved perc and seller is getting permit. Level and open 24 acre parcel makes this land desirable for equestrians or owners of other livestock. Surrounded by horse farms and 12 miles from the Bucks County Horse Park and 5 miles from Nockamixon State Park. The acreage is preserved and in Act 319. $275,000. Contact Cindy Stys, Cindy Stys Equestrian and Country Properties, 610.849.1790.
Stanley, Virginia
Seven Springs Farm (circa 1865). Beautiful original farmhouse with additions on 17.8 acres with large pond and stunning views! In-law apartment on the first floor, which is handicapped accessible. Two gorgeous stone fireplaces. Upgraded kitchen, sun room, spacious deck for entertaining that overlooks the yard and pond. $629,000.
Rare find –The River House. Circa 1860 brick farmhouse restored on 18.51 acres with 855 foot of riverfront land and surrounded by mountain views. Spectacular property includes guest cottage, two ponds, four outbuildings with electricity, gazebo, and riverfront picnic site with shower, grill and fire pit! $695,000.
Peace and quiet. Enjoy privacy and the comfort of this peaceful mountain retreat nestled on slopes of famed Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia just below picturesque Skyline Drive. Secluded 68+- acres with two two-bedroom, two bathroom cabins with fireplaces, private pond, two natural springs, and one mile nature trail. $1,150,000.
Contact Sharon Ace, McKeown Real Estate, 570.424.2762.
Contact Joseph R. Bowman, Sr., Panorama Realty, 540.742.1020.
Contact Denita Gray, Panorama Realty, 540.860.1797.
Country farmhouse offering four bedrooms, one bath. Stream and large barn. 79.40 acres of land. Built in 1925. 1,716 square feet of living space. Low taxes! $575,000. Contact Thomas McKeown, McKeown Real Estate, 570.424.2762.
Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Stanley, Virginia
Gorgeous farmhouse on approximately 27 acres. Operating farm. Hardwood under carpet. Beautiful views, fenced, barn, two storage sheds. The dairy barn could be three-room guest house (water and sewer available). $629,900. Contact Wendy Thrane, Coldwell Banker Premier Properties, 540.683.1597.
White Post, Virginia
White Post, Virginia
Beautiful 39+ acres. Separate log cabin tenant house. Hardwoods throughout with large bedrooms. Huge great room for entertaining with a fireplace. Stone patio for entertaining outdoors. Large, private fenced backyard with fantastic views. Property would be ideal as a horse farm or vineyard. $794,900.
Blue Ridge hunt country, ten acre horse property. Rancher with full finished basement, two car garage, three bedrooms, and three baths. Three stall Barnmaster barn with private paddocks, electric, water, tack/feed room, access to large pasture. Trex fencing, cross-fencing and a 200’ x 100’ riding blue stone arena. $539,000.
Contact Ned Stock, Exit Realty Talbot and Company, 703.868.7065.
Contact George C. Johnson, Jr., Jim Barb Realty, 540.323.2222.
What puts the life in your lifestyle? EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
If you have a dream to add more life to your lifestyle— whether it’s a pond for your kids to enjoy, fencing to keep your puppy safe and close to home, or even a brand new EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY farm that would give everyone a little more room—call your local Farm Credit office. We want to be your lender for life.
REALTOR
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EQUAL HOUSING
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EQUAL HOUSING
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888.339.3334 mafc.com EQUAL HOUSING
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Properties for sale
Luray, Virginia
Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE BALTIMORE MD PERMIT NO. 7175
45 Aileron Court Westminster MD 21157
MidAtlantic Farm Credit 2015 Election Results board of directors (4 year terms of office)
2016 nominating committee (1 year terms of office)
Central Maryland Election Region
Gary L. Grossnickle
Central Maryland Election Region
Michael S. Nelson and Samuel K. Roop
Chesapeake Election Region
No director positions open
Chesapeake Election Region
Hanna N. Cawley and William E. Sylvester
Delaware Election Region
Dale J. Ockels
Delaware Election Region
John Travis Hastings and Jesse R. Vanderwende
Keystone Election Region
Dale R. Hershey
Keystone Election Region
Bruce R. Heilinger and Kenneth M. Sellers
Marva Election Region
M. Wayne Lambertson
Marva Election Region
Shane I. King and Charles M. Wright, IV
Valley Election Region
T. Jeffrey Jennings
Valley Election Region
William B. Gardner and Ward L. Zigler
Let’s do this. Do people ever ask you why you do what you do? Farming is hard work. And there are lots of obstacles. We get that. But we also know that you’re doing what you love. And a visit to the fair reminds everyone why agriculture is so important to our communities. There’s nothing we’d rather do than provide financing to the farmers across our region. For nearly 100 years, we’ve been helping rural America grow great things— whether it’s crops, or cattle, or kids. So, give us a call. Together, we can help you keep doing what you love.
Lending support to rural America®
888.339.3334 | mafc.com |