heartbeat winter 2012

winter 2012

HeartBeat

With farming and flying,The sky is the limit.

2 HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2012

James Nivens, LaRussell, Chairman

Mark S. Pierce, DeKalb, Vice Chairman

Kenneth Bergmann, Walnut Grove

Bruce Bjornson, Oro Valley, Ariz., Appointed

Michael L. Bruce, Nevada

Michael L. Cook, Columbia, Appointed

James Davis, West Plains

Mark DeShon, Clarksdale

CEO: Daryl OldvaderEditor: Amy Wieberg, [email protected]

Printed with farmer-grown soybean ink on recycled paper.

Member CooperativeCommunicators Association

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

Dan Devlin, Edina

Maurice Glosemeyer, Marthasville

Daniel Hulse, Hannibal

Sherry Jones, Dawn

David Meneely, Chillicothe, Appointed

Gene H. Rademacher, Bland

Rick Rehmeier, Augusta

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

Board of Directors — FCS Financial ACA

Office Locations

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

Publication Information

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2012 3

4

Educational Events5

Daryl’s Desk

Member Feature6

Life is Simple

12

News Briefs

22

Nivens’ Notes

11

Youth in Ag

23

TABLE OF CONTENTS

20 Dollars & Cents

Risk Management

27

• New Office Update• FFA Video Contest• Ag Unlimited Banquet• Customer Appreciation• Stockholder Notice• CEO Honored

(Front and l-r) Matthew, Shalyn, Harve and Carolyn Applegate man the fort at Applegate Airport just south of Queen City, Mo. An antique airplane enthusiast, find out how Harve balances his passion with farming.

Story and photos by Joann Pipkin


reach their full financial potential. Hopefully, in some fashion we have accomplished that mission; but more importantly, we continue to do so today and in the future. One of the greatest rewards of my career has been to watch our customers grow and become successful. Today, I still have a number of farmers I f inanced years ago calling to update on their progress or seek input on various ideas. These folks have also been valuable resources for me as I attempted to keep a pulse on Missouri agriculture. It has been particularly gratifying to encounter younger producers who note that they remember when I helped finance their parents in the family’s farming operation. Two of our current directors can relate to this transition over 30 years ago when I was the Farm Credit loan officer for their families’ operations. Now they help drive the policies and direction of what was once their parents’ financial cooperative. Another people purpose which has become embedded in our organization is the outreach to our youth in agriculture. It goes without saying that our youth will be our leaders of tomorrow. In that regard, those of us at FCS Financial have supported our farm youth through sponsorships and involvement in various activities. Personally, I have always enjoyed the adrenalin rush which comes from interacting with some of the brightest and most talented youth on our high school and college campuses. Based on my time and experiences with these groups, I feel assured that the future of Missouri agriculture is in good hands.

Daryl Oldvader, CEO

DARY

L’S D

ESK

One last time…There is an old adage regarding leadership which states sometimes leadership means knowing when not to lead. For me, that time has arrived. After more than 40 years with the organization and 36 as its CEO, I announced to the staff last fall that I am retiring effective December 31, 2012. It is hard to quantify in a final summation of this nature the many memories and feelings that come with this experience. I recently had one of my new staff members ask if I had ever attempted to calculate the volume of dollars that I have directly or indirectly loaned during my tenure in Missouri agriculture. As I gave it some thought I realized that while those dollars may be measured in numbers of pigs and cows or possibly tractors and acres of farmland – the real denominator is people. Missouri agriculture is all about people. In that regard, throughout the years this organization has subscribed to a philosophy of assisting our member-owners in making sound financial decisions to

Additionally, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to work with the outstanding people at FCS Financial and within the Farm Credit System. Whether it is strategically planning the direction of the organization with our directors or interacting with staff on the front lines, I hold a tremendous respect for the dedication and work ethic of our folks. I have always felt that the success of FCS Financial lies in the fact that our directors and staff mirror the values of our member-owners. As long as FCS Financial maintains a truly cooperative status – that is, the owners share in the governance of the organization – it will remain relevant to marketplace and provide a valuable service to Missouri agriculture. Finally, as I write the last chapter in this phase of my career, I cannot help but remain very bullish on agriculture. In 40 years of financing agriculture I have enjoyed the opportunity to experience the rewards and challenges of the industry. As I have watched this evolution in agriculture, I am convinced that as long as there are people to be fed, there will be a need for farmers who are dedicated to the welfare of the next generation. Perhaps the FFA Creed that I memorized almost 50 years ago says it best: “I believe in the future of farming with a faith born not of words but of deeds…” Throughout these years I can honestly say that I have maintained the faith; others will judge the deeds. Thank you for your business. Godspeed,


Make the most of 2013 by attending one of these educational events in February. ED

UCAT

ION

EVEN

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Make plans now to attend one of three free seminars featuring Kevin Van Trump and Dr. Pat Guinan sponsored by FCS Financial to help you succeed in 2013 and beyond.

City Location Date Time

Hannibal Quality Inn & Suites120 Lindsey Rd.

February 25 Registration - 9:30 a.m.Seminar - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Marshall Martin Community Center1985 South Odell Avenue


St. Joseph Stoney Creek Inn1202 Woodbine Rd.


Kevin Van Trump, a leading expert in agricultural marketing and analysis and producer of the award-winning and world-recognized “Van Trump Report,” will present 2013 Farm Outlook: “Profitability vs. Price” - Your Road map to Success.

Pat Guinan, Ph.D., Professor of Climatology at the University of Missouri-Columbia, will discuss Historical and Recent Climate Trends in Missouri.

FCS Financial representatives will also provide brief updates on the association and 2013 spring crop insurance provisions.

Lunch will be provided at all seminars. Space is limited and advance reservations are required by February 10.

To reserve your spot, visit myfcsfinancial.com or call your FCS Financial office at 1-800-444-3276.

Kevin Van Trump

Pat Guinan, Ph.D.


MEM

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FEAT

URE

By Joann Pipkin

A little more than a stone’s throw south of the Iowa line, along quiet Highway 63, a small airport stands tall among soybean stubble south of Queen City. The gently rolling farmland to the west soon gives way to the fertile bottoms of the Chariton River. It is here in Schuyler County where years ago a high school boy was thrust into farming after the untimely death of his father.

Then a senior in high school, Harve Applegate joined his brother John on the farm. But the young man would bring with him more than a willingness to reap the harvest they sowed; Harve Applegate gleaned his father’s love of flying. “From the time I could remember anything, I was going to do it,” Harve professes. “I was going to fly.”

Today, Applegate Airport lives on in memory of Harve and John’s father, Joe, and his aviation legacy flies high just outside Harve’s back door.

ON THE FARM

Applegate Farms consists of about 1,500 owned and rented acres Harve and John manage in partnership, with nearly 1,200 acres dedicated to soybeans. Their operation

So He Can Fly


encompasses a 12-15 mile radius of Queen City with farms in both Schuyler and Putnam counties. “We’ve always planted heavily in soybeans,” Harve states adding, “North Missouri can compete with anybody in the world growing soybeans but we can’t corn.” Harve attributes that to soil type and notes north Missouri is always two weeks away from a drought.

Left: Farming both upland and river bottoms has helped Harve and John Applegate hedge their bets in farming — if the crop doesn’t make in one location, it usually does in the other. Harve says the biggest revolution in their operation has been Roundup Ready® soybeans, which has made raising the crop more manageable. Above: Daughter Shalyn helps Harve guide one of his antique airplanes from its hangar. In the summer, Harve flies over his fields most every day checking for deficiencies in the crop.

“Personally, the biggest revolution in my farming operation in the last several years has been Round-up Ready® soybeans,” he explains. “It’s made farming so much easier. I know we are getting some resistance but everything is so much more manageable now.” Farming both in the river bottom and upland has helped the Applegates hedge their bets. “In a dry year like this year, we scored

big time in the Chariton River bottom. It was a very good year,” Harve notes. The three previous years, though, Harve says the highest yields were found on the upland. “We figure that if one doesn’t make, the other will.” A proponent of minimum till, Harve explains that planters are more accurate today than in years past. And with high seed costs,


precision is everything, although, he says you can go overboard with technology. “I’ve always tried to play it a happy medium. The bottom line is I want to suck every dollar I can out of it.” Success for the Applegates comes from following their father’s incredible work ethic. “When it was time to get the crop out, you got the crop out,” Harve says. “I’ve always lived hard and fast by that.” This seasoned farmer has learned, too, not to run to the implement dealer the first time a new gadget hits the market. He cautions not to “get glassy-eyed at the big farm shows.” Harve explains, “New equipment eats you alive if you let it. There’s no sin in running old equipment; just keep it nice.”

IN THE AIR

Harve Applegate flew his first airplane solo on his 16th birthday; he earned his pilot’s license at 17. An aviation fanatic, Harve says while some might consider it an expensive hobby, it’s all in your priorities. “The neatest thing about the antique airplanes and being

Harve (left) and brother John Applegate raise corn and soybeans on 1500 acres of upland and bottom ground along the Chariton River in Putnam and Schuyler counties. Harve says north Missouri can compete with any place in the world when it comes to raising soybeans.


involved in aviation is the different people you meet and not just from the United States,” Harve states. “We have friends in England, Canada, all over. Sure, the planes draw us together, but it’s (about) the people.” Harve’s entire family shares a love for aviation. A second grade teacher, wife Carolyn, is also a pilot and together with Harve hosts every August a large fly-in at their farm. Harve even admits forewarning his wife before they got married about his airplane habit. They married despite it. Oldest daughter Taryn, 24, is married to Ryan Pemberton and lives in Spokane, Wash., with granddaughter Allison. Like dad, she received her pilot’s license at 17 after flying solo on her 16th birthday. Youngest daughter Shalyn, 17, isn’t a pilot yet, but loves to fly and says she’ll likely get her license, too. And, despite him being confined to a wheelchair with cerebral palsy, son Matthew, 26, is in the air most every day in the summer alongside his dad checking the crops. Harve himself owns three airplanes —two classified as antique, one as classic. According to Harve, planes from 1945 and older qualify as antique while those from 1945-56 are considered classic. A contemporary class includes aircrafts from 1956 to the present. “I’ve met a lot of dignitaries

through flying,” Harve admits. He shows airplanes at all kinds of air shows and fly-ins as well as at antique air shows, even attending the largest one in the world at Oshkosh, Wisc. The Antique Airplane Association national convention is held each year in Iowa and Harve serves on the board of that organization. Harrison Ford. John Denver.

Paul Harvey. Neil Armstrong. Steve McQueen. Aaron Tippin. Astronaut Frank Bormann. Harve has brushed shoulders with them all and had extensive conversations with a few of them. “It’s really amazing who’s turned on by flying,” he says. A few awards have even come Harve’s way as a result of his showing. “I like nice airplanes, but I don’t build them for the trophies,” Harve says. “I just enjoy it.” The airplane has been a stepping-stone of sorts for Harve. He says the first one he bought was a good, solid plane, but it was

“definitely a project. I got it up to show status and won the show at Oshkosh and another one. It sold. Then, I got a higher dollar one.” Harve notes. Having an airplane and owning an airport has come in handy on the farm for the Applegates, too. Every day in the summer, Harve climbs in a plane to check his crops. “You can see deficiencies from the air that you can’t see from the ground,” he realizes. “All of our chemicals are custom-applied and I’m all the time telling (the applicator) not to mess up, because I’ll find it.” Harve’s dad, Joe, started the airport in Queen City back in 1964 both for himself and for friends after the one on the north end of town closed. According to Harve, the airport sees a lot of use, especially in the agriculture industry in the summer. Funeral homes, local businesses, sky diving clubs and pilot associations use the facility. A number of tenants store their planes in the hangars at the airport.

AS A CUSTOMER

Joe Applegate had been a long-time customer of FCS Financial, beginning when the cooperative was known as Federal Land Bank. “I really became involved with FCS after my mother passed away,” Harve explains, noting that’s when he and John took total control of

“Play the hand you’re dealt, ... that’s the best

philosophy for life in general.”


the farming operation. In 1995, Harve and John bought out their other brothers and sisters. Over the years, Applegate Farms has turned to FCS Financial for real estate and operating loans as well as for some equipment financing. “FCS is geared toward farmers,” Harve says, “and they have a staff of really nice people. It’s good to have all of our finance needs under one roof.” According to FCS Financial’s Debbie Ragsdale, “Harve makes it easy. He and John are an example of the type of customer we have at FCS Financial. They have a strong farm operation and we are lucky to work with them.”

EMBRACING THE CHALLENGE

From being thrust into farming as a senior in high school to failed crops to parenting a special needs child, Harve Applegate has learned to embrace the challenges of farming —and life in general. “You just roll with the punches,” he advises noting the weather is by far the greatest obstacle facing any farmer. “Play the hand you’re dealt,” Harve continues. “Always play the hand out the best you can; that’s the best philosophy for life in general.” Harve sees a need in getting more young people involved in farming. He notes specifically that in the ag flying industry, it’s hard to

get young people involved and the earning potential there is huge. “Everybody is going to have to get their hands dirty in life if they are going to get ahead,” Harve realizes. As for Applegate Farms, Harve is unsure whether there will be a family member to continue the legacy his father and grandfather sowed in the fertile north Missouri soil. For now, though, the farmer turned aviator is content living hard and fast when it’s time to get the crop out. Harve concludes, “I farm so I can fly.”

The Applegates are long-time customers of FCS Financial on real estate, operating and equipment loans. FCS Financial’s Debbie Ragsdale (left) and Jessica Hamill discuss this year’s harvest with Harve and John.


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.

“Life is Simple” Copyright 2012, Jerry Crownover

LIFE

IS S

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I am reluctant to embrace change—especially if it involves technology. Heck, I still marvel at the pocket calculator and am amazed by the remote control on my television. I guess that’s why I was a little skeptical when my trusted machinery salesman suggested I “upgrade” on a purchase I made last week. I had traded trucks and needed to buy a new hydraulic bale bed for the new rig. I’ve had three different ones over the past eighteen years. Every one of them has been the same brand and model, and each has been set up with the same options—two tool boxes, two work lights, and one hard-wired control. I’ve been pleased with each of them.

The sales rep suggested that I might want to try a new option in the wireless, remote control. His pitch pointed out that the little gadget would allow me to work from outside the truck whenever I needed to use the arms of the unroller to pull fence posts, load the fuel transfer tank, or a multitude of other tasks to which it lends itself. “Is it simple to operate?” I asked. He assured me that it operated exactly like my old control, only with no wires attached. “Have you had any problems with ones you have sold already?” I quizzed further. “You’re just buying one, right?” He inquired. I assured him that I had no need for more than one hydraulic bale bed, but I was curious as to why he had asked such a question. As it turned out, he had encountered one problem when he had sold a pair of new bale beds to a father/son farming team. The father was like me and wanted to continue using the tried and true control attached to ten feet of wiring cable. His tech-savvy son had convinced him that they should both upgrade at the same time and switch over to the wireless control box. Reluctantly, the father gave in and the new beds were installed on their new trucks. Eager to try out their new bale beds, both father and son prepared

to move in the last remaining bales from one of their hay fields. They both raced to back into bales about twenty feet apart. As the older farmer began to back toward his first bale, the hydraulic arms of his new piece of equipment began to rise upward and then down toward the approaching bale. Since he hadn’t even touched the wireless control, he could only assume that the bale bed had some sort of sensing device similar to what he had seen on TV with some of the newer modeled cars that can park themselves. As he got close to centering the bale with the pretty, red spinners, the arms began to squeeze inward, so he had to hurry to get the truck into position. When the arms squeezed the bale and loaded in onto his truck without the father ever even touching the controls, it left the older gentleman impressed. But, when the son arrived at the bale yard and began unloading while Dad waited at the gate to the yard, the old man was just as shocked when his bed began unloading and spreading the arms automatically. It seems that the wireless controller operated both beds when they were within fifty feet of each other! I shouldn’t have any problem since I only have one truck and bed, but I can’t wait to have a little fun with a certain neighbor who has recently purchased one just like mine. Don’t park behind him at the coffee shop.

YOUT

H IN

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Since its inception, FCS Financial’s Scholarship Program has awarded 289 scholarships totaling $289,000. Developed in 2004, 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. Visit myfcsfinancial.com for details on the 2013 FCS Financial Scholarship. Deadline is March 1, 2013. 2012 marks the ninth year for the FCS Financial scholarship program and here’s an inside look at what some of the 2007 recipients are doing now – five years later.

Melinda Breshears Grant

“Mindy” graduated from Missouri State University (MSU) with a bachelor’s in cell and molecular biology and a minor in chemistry.

She is now in nursing school at Cox College in Springfield and anticipates graduation in May 2013. Once she receives her

bachelor’s in nursing, Mindy hopes to focus on labor and delivery or critical care.

In 2009, Mindy was on a month-long volunteer mission in New Zealand where she helped re-

establish natural ecosystems and traveled. She was also part of Centennial Leaders,

a scholarship and leadership program through honors organization Phi

Eta Sigma at MSU. Married to Payne Grant, the

couple lives on the family farm in Goodson, Mo.,

raising cattle, sheep, hogs and poultry. They also market all-natural meat to local consumers.

FIVE YEARS LATER...WHERE ARE THEY NOW?2007 FCS Financial Scholarship Recipients


ashley Clarkson haer

One might say Ashley Clarkson Haer has the best of both worlds —she gets to work out of a home office on the family farm and raise a family at the same time. A graduate of Northwest Missouri State University with a bachelor’s in animal science, minor in commercial agriculture, Ashley was on the school’s equestrian team. She also participated in the rodeo club and collegiate FFA. At Northwest, Ashley took in-depth classes specifically focusing on animals in ag production—from pork production, nutrition, genetics and breeding to meat processing, anatomy and physiology. She also completed certification in artificial insemination. Focus of her family’s farm shifted to cattle when Ashley was about five years old after raising hogs for a number of years, so she naturally expected her career would be geared toward cattle production. “At a career fair I found a company called Niman Ranch that was looking for a pork field manager near La Plata, my home town,” Ashley explains. As she learned more about the position, she discovered she already knew many of the producers in the area and it was a perfect opportunity for her to move back to the family farm. For about a year, Ashley worked for Niman Ranch — an all natural, antibiotic-free, pasture or deeply-bedded-pen hog company —before being offered a field manager position with Cargill Pork. “With Cargill, I am involved in ensuring our pigs are housed, fed and watered properly,” Ashley

As a field manager for Cargill Pork, Ashley Haer works as the ‘bridge’ between the company and the producer that grows the company’s product. She works closely with the Cargill veterinary team to ensure pig health and also helps train producers in Pork Quality Assurance.

explains. “I routinely walk the pens of the barns with my producers to ensure everything is being done according to the standards Cargill requires.” Ashley works closely with the Cargill veterinary team to make certain the health of pigs is at its best and she trains producers in proper production practices and certifies them in Pork Quality Assurance (PQA). “Another task I perform is calling in market hog numbers to sell hogs out of each contract grower’s facility at the required weight for the market,” Ashley notes. “When I have time, I enjoy working side-by-side with the producers to vaccinate pigs, load market hogs, or unload newly weaned pigs at arrival.” All in all, Ashley says she is the bridge between the company and the producer that grows the company’s product. “Days when I am available to volunteer to work with the animals and producer all day are my favorite,” Ashley explains. “The most beneficial part of my job is that I have an in-home office and work out of my home. This allows me to have the flexibility I need living on a family farm and raising a family.” Ashley is married to Andrew Haer and the couple has a nine-month-old son, Jaxson. They live on her family’s farm near La Plata, Mo.

Curt White

Having received his associate’s degree from Crowder College, Curt went on to earn a bachelor’s in elementary education from MSU. Curt was on the dean’s list with a 3.85 grade point average. While at MSU, he student taught

at Wheaton schools and the district was so pleased with his work they offered Curt a full-time position while he was there. He’s now in his second year of teaching first grade at Wheaton. Curt and his wife, Britney, live in Stella, Mo.

eMily shaW

Emily Shaw knows first-hand how important medical advancements are to patient care. She’s seen the other side. While in college earning her bachelor’s in nursing from Truman State University, Emily traveled with 11 other Truman nursing students


(Left) A visit to a Leprosarium during a study abroad trip to the Philippines was an amazing experience for Emily Shaw. Now a nurse at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, she says her journey was a “life-changing” experience. (Right) Emily’s study abroad experience in the Philippines also took her to an obstetrics department where she performed routine baby care. The Truman State University graduate was awed by the differences in medical advancements in the Philippines and the U.S.

to the Philippines. The group was in Manilla for a week, staying at the Shalom Center and working at the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center While the students were required to be in the nursery and obstetrics ward for a day, they could also choose what departments they wanted to work in for their remaining days. Emily opted for the major and minor operating rooms. “It was fantastic to see the differences in techniques and equipment used for each surgery,” Emily explains. “A hernia was repaired using a tiny scope while a surgeon repairing a hip used a bone hammer to place rods.” She describes her experience in the minor operating room. “It was cyst day because every patient there had some type of mass under their skin needing to be removed. There was one room with three surgery tables. There were no curtains and the patients were moved in and out very quickly.” With no recovery room, Emily says patients were sewn up and free to leave once the surgeon was finished. Unlike in the U.S., these patients wait until the last possible minute to get treatment resulting in

major infections, she notes. “Now that I’ve been a working nurse for a year and a half I can truly appreciate the medical advancements we have here in the U.S. that I always took for granted.” Emily’s experience in the OB department put her doing routine baby care like bathing, taking measurements and giving immunizations and eye drops. “Most families are so poor that they don’t have clothes for the babies so we brought baby outfits,” she explains. “The hospital doesn’t provide diapers so unless the family had brought some we couldn’t even change dirty diapers.” Infants were always crying and most were hungry, Emily says. “We couldn’t feed them like they needed so we just held them and tried to comfort them.” Difficult to endure at times, Emily says we here in the U.S. take for granted every time we come to the hospital we are not only going to get the necessary items like mediations and treatments but all of our comfort items regardless of our financial status. “Do we really need lip balm and three to four pillows?” she questions. “Should we really complain about a room

being too cold when places like the Philippines don’t even have air conditioning?” Emily notes that a huge difference between the Filipino and American cultures is that families perform most of the patient personal care like bathing and feeding whereas in the U.S. this is viewed as part of the nurse’s job. “The nurse to patient ratio (in the Philippines) is much higher and sometimes one RN could be in charge of an entire ward consisting of 30+ beds,” she explains. “Sometimes we complain about being understaffed at our hospitals here in the U.S.,” Emily continues, “but I don’t think anyone can imagine taking care of that many patients. Luckily, there are a lot of training nursing students and med students around to help.” According to Emily, an amazing experience during her journey to the Philippines was in visiting a Leprosarium. She says leprosy is completely curable after medication has been started and after the first month on medication the disease is no longer contagious. “Unfortunately, most people don’t get treatment quick enough leaving them with permanent deformities


Austin Baker is climbing the ladder quickly in his role at Kawasaki Motors in Maryville. He was recently promoted to 2nd shift maintenance supervisor, his second promotion after being with the company for just 16 months.

like loss of limbs, eyesight and even the use of their hands.” She goes on to note that despite those conditions, every man and woman she met was so grateful to have a place to live and medical treatment. A particularly favorite day for Emily during her journey was when she visited a Philippine community. “It was interesting to see how healthy people lived outside of the city,” Emily notes. “It’s amazing to see how happy people can be when they have so little supplies and resources, where here (in the U.S.) we think a flip phone is terrible.” Emily calls her journey to the Philippines a “life-changing” experience. Today, she has put her nursing degree to work at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. She has plans to become a nurse specialist but is still contemplating a specific area in which to specialize. While at Truman she was also a recipient of the Norma Jean Watson Caring Nursing Award.

austin Baker

From Maryville, Mo., Austin Baker received associate of arts and associate of applied science technology degrees from North Central Missouri College in Trenton. He also was certified in industrial management at Grand River Technical School in Chillicothe. Austin was recently promoted to second shift maintenance supervisor at Kawasaki Motors Corporation in Maryville. In his role there, Austin is over maintenance and maintenance personnel for the entire plant during second shift.

He’s been with the company for 16 months.

Cody Johnson

A former college football player at Northwest Missouri State University, Cody Johnson now lives in Bentonville, Ark., where he works for Wal-Mart in its home office. With a degree in sociology and a minor in criminal justice, Cody is in the hiring process with both the Oklahoma and Missouri highway patrol.

daniel Wisner

Having received his degree in agriculture finance, minor in accounting, from MSU, Daniel now lives in Osceola with his wife Shelby. While at MSU, he interned at St. Clair County State Bank and now works there as a loan officer in addition to helping out on the family’s beef, hog and row crop farm. Daniel was involved with Collegiate Farm Bureau, serving as chapter president. He was also president of his fraternity, Alpha Gamma Rho, and was active in

Delta Tau Alpha, an agricultural honors society.

nathan Bunse

With a degree in ag business, minor in precision agriculture, from Northwest Missouri State University, Nathan farms with his dad in Cosby, Mo., raising row crops and hay as well as beef and dairy cattle. Nathan and his wife, Rachel, also sell outdoor wood stoves in addition to farming.

roBert WilliaMs

Robert received an associate of science degree in agriculture and natural resources from North Central Missouri College in Trenton and is now back living in Richmond, Mo., where he works in the family’s corn, soybean and wheat operation. He has a three-year-old son, Parker.

WilliaM Gorrell

William earned his degree in ag science, minor in precision agriculture, from Northwest Missouri State University. While


(Left) A first-year vet student at the University of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Brenda Arnold was named one of MU’s top 10 Animal Science Seniors in 2011. She hopes to eventually own her own veterinary practice and serve both large and small animals. (Right) Jason Riechert, in front of the Franz Joseph Glacier in New Zealand, took a three-week study abroad journey to the country as part of a course in international agriculture during college at the University of Missouri. Jason also took part in the John Brown and John Dickinson Scholars Programs and is now the ag management solutions specialist at Heartland Farm & Lawn in Warrensburg.

at Northwest, he was in Alpha Gamma Rho and graduated cum laude. William is now back home in Marshall, Mo., working with his dad in the family’s beef and row crop operation and is engaged to Jamie Hartman.

Brenda arnold

Brenda graduated from the MU with a bachelor’s in animal science, minor in agricultural economics. She is currently a first-year veterinary student at MU’s College of Veterinary Medicine and hopes to graduate in May 2016. While at MU, Brenda was named one of the 2011 Top 10 Animal Science Seniors and received the Bullock Award for her leadership in Collegiate Farm Bureau. In addition, Brenda took part in a study abroad program to England with the Agricultural Systems Management Club. While there, Brenda toured farms and several universities such as Harper Adams, Oxford and Cranfield. The group also visited factories such as JCB, Jaguar, Land Rover and Cadbury Chocolate.

“The trip to England really opened my eyes to the differences in the cultures and the agricultural practices between our country and theirs,” Brenda explains. Following vet school, Brenda hopes to work in a clinic serving both large and small animals and eventually she would like to open her own practice.

reBeCCa stephen

Growing up and working on her family’s farm, Rebecca Stephen developed a passion for agriculture and knew she wanted to work in the industry from a young age. Rebecca attended the University of Missouri (MU) where she majored in ag journalism and minored in ag economics and political science. “I decided to go the journalism route because I enjoy writing and talking with people,” Rebecca explains. A past Missouri State FFA officer, Rebecca’s emphasis in the School of Journalism was in radio and TV broadcasting. She interned at WDAF-TV in Kansas City and was a reporter and editor at KMOX

Radio in Jefferson City before becoming a reporter and anchor at KOMU-TV in Columbia. “Working at a TV station was a great experience,” Rebecca explains. “There’s a lot going on behind the scenes and it is much harder than it looks on television. Ultimately, I discovered that I didn’t want to go into broadcasting for my career, but I learned many valuable lessons that help me every day.” After college at MU, Rebecca interned at Osborn & Barr, a public relations firm in St. Louis. There, she assisted agricultural clients like the United Soybean Board. Following the internship, she worked at Osborn & Barr full time until September 2012 when she accepted a position with the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC) in Washington, D.C. At NCFC, Rebecca assists with communication efforts and works to build the organization’s web and social media presence. “I also work on our member relations and serve as a contact for our farmer co-op members,” she notes. A charter member of Sigma


Heidi Varner’s study abroad trip through the University of Missouri’s College of Business opened her eyes to different cultures and business practices. Pictured here on a day trip to Paris, Heidi is now a legal assistant at Langdon and Emison Law Firm in Lexington.

Rebecca Stephen was a reporter and anchor at KOMU-TV in Columbia. She’s now assisting with communication efforts and helping to build social media presence for the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives in Washington, D.C.

Sigma Sigma sorority, Rebecca was also an Agriculture Future of America Scholar. In the future, she hopes to continue working in the industry and telling agriculture’s story to the world. “I feel very blessed to be where I’m at in my career right now,” Rebecca says. “I’ve had a lot of great experiences thus far and am looking forward to continuing to learn and grow in my field.”

Jason reiChert

Jason graduated from MU with a bachelor’s degree in ag business management and a minor in plant science and international agriculture. At MU Jason studied abroad for three weeks in New Zealand as part of a course in international agriculture. Jason served on the MU Alumni Association Student Board, was a member of Greek Week Sweet 16 Royalty and took part in the John Brown and Gary Dickinson Scholars Programs. Additionally, he interned with Helena Chemical and at Monsanto. Currently, Jason is employed as ag management solutions specialist with Heartland Farm & Lawn in Warrensburg, Mo., where he instructs farmers on precision agriculture and how to implement the industry’s latest technology for two of the company’s five dealerships.

devin heid

Devin graduated from MSU in December 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in history, minor in

information technology service management. Currently living and working in Springfield, Devin says he was lucky to get a job at Sunrise Media Partners doing basic computer support before he graduated. Since April 2012 he has worked at the company as data manager and dialer analyst. Devin anticipates moving back to Kansas City to open a call center utilizing the unique synergies provided by Google’s new fiber network currently being installed there. “Having a degree opens many doors and is increasingly becoming a necessary standard in today’s job market,” Devin explains. “I think that scholarship opportunities provided by members of the business community are especially important and help to showcase the value put in education by businesses such as FCS Financial.” He concludes, “Education is among the best gifts and most powerful tools you can offer someone.”

heidi varner

Heidi received her bachelor’s degree in journalism, minor in business, in May 2011 from MU. While at MU, Heidi was a member of Kappa Delta sorority where she served on the homecoming and recruitment committees among others. She also had the opportunity to study abroad through the College of Business and spent time in Brussels, Belgium and Amsterdam, and The Netherlands touring various businesses and exploring cities. According to Heidi, her journey abroad helped her to

(Top) Katlyn Logan saw Brazilian agriculture first hand in the sugar cane fields while on a study abroad trip to the South American country. The trip to Brazil was one of four overseas adventures Katlyn experienced while at the University of Missouri-Columbia. (Bottom) During a study abroad trip to New Zealand, Katlyn bungee jumped off Nevis. The jump is the second highest in the world and the tallest in New Zealand, located 134 meters about the rugged Nevis River. In all, Katlyn’s been to 10 foreign countries and is now working on her master’s degree through the University of Kentucky.

experience different cultures and see the similarities and differences of business practices used in other parts of the world in comparison to our own here in the U.S. Currently, she is a legal assistant at Langdon and Emison Law Firm in Lexington, Mo.

Cassie Gilland

Cassie is a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University where she earned a bachelor’s in education and secondary math. Currently living in Moberly, Cassie also obtained her master’s degree in education technology from the University of Central Missouri. She currently teaches high school math and is the assistant high school softball coach at Northeast Randolph County in Cairo.

roBert “alex” Benoit

A graduate of MU with an ag systems management degree, minor in ag economics, Alex graduated with honors. He returned to the family farm in Centralia, Mo., where he works alongside his dad


raising corn and soybeans. Alex is engaged to marry Lauren Dante in March 2013.

katlyn loGan

By the time she had completed her undergraduate degree, Katlyn Logan had been in 10 foreign countries. Having attended college at MU, the Sheldon, Mo., native graduated in May 2011 as an honors scholar and Cum Laude from the College of Agriculture Food and Natural Resources. At MU, Katlyn attended four different study abroad experiences. From Ireland the summer following her freshman year to Europe the summer between her sophomore and junior years, she toured and learned different cultures, history and agriculture. “I spent time in Krakow, Poland, and was able to visit the concentration camps at Auschwitz and Birkenau,” Katlyn explains. “It was a very emotional but rewarding experience.” Other adventures abroad took Katlyn to New Zealand where she attended classes on the environment, farming, tourism and the wine industry. While in Christ church, Katlyn bungee jumped off Nevis —the second highest bungee jump in the world and the tallest in New Zealand, located 134 meters above the rugged Nevis River. During winter break of her senior year, Katlyn spent time in Brazil on a traveling program that focused on production agriculture and Brazilian culture. “While there I was able to see coffee and

sugar cane growing in fields for the first time,” she explains. “I ate fresh mangoes straight off the tree and learned more about Brazilian farming practices.” According to Katlyn, these overseas experiences helped her learn valuable life lessons and grow personally. “While the trips were mainly focused on the agricultural industry, I would almost argue that we learned just as much about

ourselves as we did about the topics taught in class,” she explains. “Being in a foreign country for the first time can be a shocking experience for anyone, especially if English is not the primary language, let alone for someone raised in a

rural part of the heartland,” Katlyn continues. “I found studying abroad to be an exhilarating experience and truly enjoyed learning how agriculture is different around the world. I truly believe that my study abroad experiences made me a more well-rounded individual and professional.”In addition to her overseas adventures, at MU Katlyn was actively involved in Sigma Alpha, Ag Ed Society, CAFNR Week Steering Committee, Ag Ed REPS, Alpha Tau Alpha and Alpha Zeta. During her senior year, Katlyn was crowned the CAFNR Week Queen while representing Ag Ed Society. Additionally, she was a delegate for Agriculture Future of America two times and selected to be a Dickinson Scholar her sophomore year. Now armed with her bachelor’s degree in agriculture education with emphasis in leadership and communications, minors in agricultural economics and international agriculture, Katlyn is in her second year of working toward her Master’s of Science degree through the University of Kentucky. Once completed, Katlyn’s degree will be in community and leadership development with focus on career, technical and leadership education. “I’ve always had a passion for agriculture and hope to find my fit in the diverse sector that not only feeds but also fuels the world,” Katlyn says about her future. “It is my hope to one day work in the field of agriculture, promoting and protecting the rural lifestyle that I have chosen to stay and work in.”

“Having a degree opens many doors

... Education is among the best gifts and most powerful tools you can offer

someone.” - Devin Heid


DOLL

ARS

& CE

NTS

A new year is fast approaching, with its share of challenges and uncertainty. If one takes a cup half-full approach, there will be more opportunities for proactive managers to succeed in a global and domestic economic environment that presents volatility in the extremes. The pulse of the agricultural economy finds two extremes. The supersized super cycle that has lasted for a decade is partially the result of global economic growth generated by emerging nations, with China being the fulcrum. Domestic factors such as the shift to ethanol and biofuels, the emergence of oil, gas and mineral incomes fueled by the low value of the dollar, and low real interest rates, have presented profits and wealth accumulation to many of the 60 million people who reside in rural America. Specifically, grain, oil seed, and fiber enterprises have experienced long profit windows with minimal and shallow downturns. Specialization and consolidation are being economically rewarded. On the downside, margin compression is being experienced as a result of higher input costs and increased fixed costs for land through cash rents and appreciating land values. High prices for marginal land and outside investors seeking farmland investments are signals that land appreciation is long in the cycle. Contrasting this to the livestock industry through the super cycle finds short profit windows with extended downturns. There has been a shift of agricultural resources from livestock to grain as producers seek more profitable enterprises that are less labor-intensive as a lifestyle choice. Specialization in the livestock industry has resulted in increased financial risk. Increased regulation on consumer and food issues, as well as environmental and animal welfare issues, has taken the economic glow off this industry. Many in the grain industry are concerned because an economically sustainable livestock industry is an important component that contributes to a viable grain industry. While weather is not my expertise, moisture and growing degree days in the southern hemisphere in the next four months must be watched. Moisture this winter and next spring in drought-stricken production belts in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia will be dominant factors in the economic outcomes of both the crop and livestock sectors next year and beyond. The pulse of the developed countries now finds Europe locked into a major recession. China has changed leaders and is providing stimulus to maintain economic stability. Domestically, the United States is in the

The Pulse of the Economy & Business

Dr. David Kohl energizes agricultural lenders, producers and business persons with his keen insight into the agricultural industry through extensive travel, research, and exposure during his career. 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.

By: Dr. David M. Kohl


final countdown toward the fiscal cliff or fiscal slope. If the U.S. economy goes over the cliff or slope, it will reduce gross domestic product (GDP) by 2.6 percent to 3.6 percent, placing the U.S. into a recession. The most likely compromise will be similar in nature to the plan proposed by Bowles and Simpson that includes tax increases and budget cuts. However, the economy and businesses are currently being held hostage by politics, suppressing normal investment behavior. Remember, 80% of economics is behavioral. Businesses and the public want clarity in the rules for decision-making. Speaking of decision-making, the following are a few simple proactive practices to jump start next year for your business.

• First, it is important for each business partner to establish written goals, including business, family and personal goals, as well as mental, physical and spiritual goals.

• Second, make an appointment with your lender to review your financials. Being conservative on debt with a debt to asset ratio below 50 percent, and having strong liquidity, with working capital of at least 33% of revenue, are proactive practices of the times. Check all partners’ credit scores, also; ideally, they should be above 700.

• Finally, develop financial budgets based on the past three years, and shock test up to a 25 percent increase in costs and decrease in prices.

Opportunities in agriculture abound, but failure can result despite the great super cycle if one does not focus on the basics of goal setting and financial management with a trusted advisor.

THE 30-DAY VS. 15-YEAR FARM CREDIT BOND chart below illustrates that 30 day issues continue to stay at historically low levels through November 30, 2012. Movement in the gap between long-term and short-term rates remains steady. Ask your FCS Financial expert about conversion options and locking in historically low, fixed rates on real estate loan or other term loans.

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


Don’t gamble with your claim.RI

SK M

ANAG

EMEN

T

DATES TO REMEMBERDecember 10MPCI coverage ends on 2012 spring crops

December 15Final MPCI acreage reporting date for wheat and barley crops

December 25Last day to report production and revenue losses

March 15Last day to sign up for MPCI crop insurance coverage on 2013 Spring crops

March 15Last day to make any changes to an existing MPCI policy for your 2013 Spring crop policy.

March 15All written agreements on crops need to be completed prior to this date for submission to RMA.

April 29Last date to turn in production reports for 2012 Spring crops

High-Risk Alternate Coverage Endorsement (HR-ACE) offered for 2013 Spring CropsAll Approved Insurance Providers (AIP’s) are not required to offer the HR-ACE. AIP’s that decide to offer the HR-ACE must offer it to all eligible insureds in the approved areas. The HR-ACE is available where the premium rates and other actuarial materials for HR-ACE are included in the actuarial documents for the county. HR-ACE is available for land located in high-risk areas and for 2013 spring crops of corn, soybeans and grain sorghum in state and counties specified on the actuarial documents. HR-ACE must be elected on or before the applicable sales closing date (March 15th) by crop and policy. FCS Financial continues to write MPCI crop policies through four of the top-rated AIP’s in the country. Contact one of our offices today and our crop insurance specialist would be glad to discuss this new product with you.

CLAIMS…CLAIMS…CLAIMS…Record levels of claims are being filed with the insurance companies. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and patience during this time while working with the insurance company adjustors. Our own insurance companies are doing a good job in processing claims as fast as possible. If you have a concern about your claim please contact your agent for a status update.

HELPFUL HINTS• Turning in your 2012 spring crop production early will help give you

the most accurate quote for your 2013 policy coverage options.• Thinking about adding additional acres, breaking new sod, or need

a written agreement on your policy? Don’t wait until March 14th. Contact your agent today with the information.

• Your crop policy needs to be carried in the same legal entity or exactly the same as you file with FSA.

• Did you have the correct policy in 2012 for your marketing plans? What changes would you make for 2013? Ask your agent about how a hail policy in addition to your MPCI policy can provide you with added coverage and reduce risk in your operation.

HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2012 23HEARTBEAT | WINTER 2012 23

NEW

S BR

IEFS

NEW OFFICE TO OPEN FEBRUARY 19Located on the west edge of town

near the USDA offices and the

Springfield Livestock Auction,

the new FCS Financial office in

Springfield will open Tuesday,

February 19. At that time, the

current Bolivar and Springfield

offices will be consolidated into

the new building. To accomodate

the move, the current Bolivar and

Springfield offices will close on

Friday, February 15 and Monday

February 18. Additionally, the

Bolivar office will retain part-time

office hours on Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m. -

12:30 p.m. and Thursdays, 12:30 p.m.

- 4 p.m. or by appointment.

An Open House is being planned

for March 19 in conjunction with

FCS Financial’s annual Customer

Appreciation Day. Details will be

mailed to Springfield and Bolivar

customers closer to the date.

500 South State Hwy. BSpringfield, MO

417-862-4158866-862-4158

north


IMPORTANT NOTICE TO SHAREHOLDERS:In accordance with Farm Credit Administration regulations, FCS Financial will publish a copy of its 2012 Annual Report on our website (myfcsfinancial.com) by March 15, 2013.

In addition, by March 31, 2013, FCS Financial will mail a copy of the 2012 Annual Report to all shareholders of record as of December 31, 2012.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16Holiday Inn Select –

Expo Center, Columbia, Mo.

You’re invited to a Mardi Gras party filled with great food, fellowship and fun at the CAFNR Ag Unlimited 2013 Banquet and Auctions. Join your fellow Tigers as we raise

money for scholarships and student programs for the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.

Social Hour and Silent Auction 5:00 p.m.

Dinner 6:30 p.m.

Live Auction 7:30 p.m.

If you have questions or would like to donate auction items, contact Dana Brown Haynes at 573-999-5749,

Dana Rogge at 573-864-2329 or Mike Johanning at 913-660-2974. For more information, visit cafnr.missouri.edu.

B A n q U E T & F U n D R A i S i n g A U c T i o n S

Unlimited2013

cAFnR Ag

FCS Financial

wishes you a

Merry Christmas

and

Happy New Year!

Missouri’s major agriculture organizations are teaming up to sponsor the 2012-2013 video contest encouraging FFA chapters to create a video or auto-play slide show with audio that conveys a positive message about the value of Missouri agriculture.

Earn from $500 to $2,000 for your FFA Chapter!

CONTEST GUIDELINES N Entries should clearly show FFA student involvement and participation. N The target audience should be consumers with limited knowledge of today’s agriculture.N Three positive messages to keep in mind are: (1) farmers create safe, wholesome food for everyone to enjoy; (2) farm-

ers work hard to care for their animals; and (3) farmers are good stewards of the environment. However, not all three themes need to be addressed in your entry.

N Each FFA district is eligible to have at least one winner that will receive $500.N The district winners will compete for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place overall and will be announced at the 2012 FFA state convention.N Prizes include: 1st = $1,500; 2nd = $1,000; 3rd = $500N Length of each entry must be a minimum of three minutes and a maximum of five minutes.N Copy onto a DVD or CD as a movie file using such formats as WMV, MOV, AVI, MPEG or MP4.N All participants in the video are required to sign a release form which must be included with the submitted entry.N Entries must be postmarked by March 22, 2013.N Only Missouri FFA Chapters are eligible to enter. One entry per FFA chapter.N The sponsoring organizations claim the rights to all videos submitted (the right to publish, televise, and retain all

broadcasts.)**N The committee reserves the right to disqualify any submission.

** By submitting an entry, each entrant agrees to release and hold harmless the sponsoring organizations from and against any claim, expense or liability arising from or related to submission, participation in the contest, and appearance on the program and/or acceptance of any prize.

SUbmIT ENTrIES TOMissouri Farm Bureau

Public Affairs OfficeAttn: FFA Video Submissions

P.O. Box 658Jefferson City, MO 65102

For more information, contact Rebecca French Smithat 573-893-1558 or [email protected].

Visit www.mofb.org/home/ffavideocontest.aspx for complete guidelines,release forms and examples of former winning videos.

SPONSOrING OrGANIZATIONSFCS FinancialMidwest Dairy AssociationMissouri Corn Merchandising CouncilMissouri Farm BureauMissouri Pork AssociationMissouri Soybean ProgramsMFA Incorporated


IT’S OUR WAY OF SAYING FOR YOUR BUSINESSJoin us March 19 for Customer Appreciation Day

Each FCS Financial office will host a Customer Appreciation Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on

March 19 in conjunction with National Ag Day. Stop by for refreshments and to visit with

your FCS Financial team members.

Oldvader Receives Farm Bureau Outstanding Service to Ag Awards

Daryl Oldvader, FCS Financial CEO, and three other individuals were honored with the Missouri Farm Bureau Outstanding Service to Agriculture Award December 3. The presentations were made by MFB President Blake Hurst during the annual meeting’s opening session at the Lake of the Ozarks.

The award is the highest honor bestowed to an individual by Missouri Farm Bureau. These individuals have a close working relationship with Farm Bureau and have supported agriculture throughout their careers.

Daryl is retiring at the end of the year after 40 years with FCS Financial. Thirty-six of those years have been as chief executive officer. During that time he has served on numerous Farm Credit Bank committees and other

state and national boards. More notable committees Daryl has been a part of are the Governor’s Task Force on 21st Century Agriculture and the Governor’s Advisory Council on Agriculture. He is currently on the Vice Chancellor’s Leadership Council for the University of Missouri College of Agriculture where he was named Alumnus of the Year in 2002. In 2006, Daryl was recognized by the Missouri Vocational Agriculture Teachers as the outstanding cooperator for his work with FFA and vocational agricultural students. He has received the Honorary American and State FFA degrees. In addition to Daryl, the others added to this select group of award recipients include: Glen Klippenstein, state representative and cattle farmer; Bill Jackson, Brunswick River Terminal co-owner and Brunswick AGRIServices manager; and Dan Reed, Missouri Farm Bureau videographer. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service and dedication to agriculture.

Blake Hurst, MFB President, (right), presents award to Daryl Oldvader, FCS Financial CEO.

Greetings from the Board Room:

I get a warning prior to each HeartBeat about the genera l contents of the new issue. If you have read through the magazine, you can imagine what my thoughts about subject matter have been. The first attempt or two seemed to border more on an obituary than a “Greetings from the boardroom.” Finally realized that no one had died, Daryl Oldvader was simply retiring. And it wasn’t really a surprise, everyone knew it was going to happen – someday. A couple of years ago, Daryl mentioned that he was reluctant to attend district or national farm credit meetings that didn’t require his participation because the first question asked of him was “When are you retiring?” The Farm Credit community is small enough that most everyone that attends one of these meetings is aware of Daryl’s experience and tenure within the system. I attended a National Directors Conference in the week after Daryl announced his pending retirement and in a very short while, I had some sympathy for what he has been experiencing. The common question directed at me was “I hear FCS Financial will be replacing Daryl Oldvader”. Soon my response became “No, we may be hiring a new CEO but we’re making no attempt to replace Daryl Oldvader.” The nex t most common comment was an offer of help or

NIVE

NS’ N

OTES

James Nivens, Chairman of the Board

suggestion of a good candidate for the soon to be open position. Even a couple of positive mentions of the path that the board has chosen. At the September board meeting it was quickly evident that the board didn’t care to entertain the prospects of a merger with another association. As a board, we are more than aware of several good candidates within the ranks of the association’s staff and with the excellent health of the association, that Daryl and the staff have enabled, we would expect to attract the attention of applicants not only from within the Farm Credit System but “outside” also. The board has enlisted the help of Farm Credit Council Services in the CEO selection process and the time line that has been developed would suggest that we could be interviewing applicants before the end of the year. Hopefully a new CEO will be on board shortly after the first of the year. Be assured that the board intends to take a very measured and thorough approach in the selection process. Should it take more time than anticipated, there are members of management that are not interested in the CEO position and could very capably serve as an interim CEO. Though Daryl Oldvader has been the public face of Farm Credit and FCS Financial for a number of years, and has served admirably, I think he would be one of the

first to tell you that it’s not his association. As it has for nearly 100 years, it belongs to the members that it serves. And from the effort I have witnessed Daryl put into this organization, I think it’s his intention that FCS Financial will continue to serve its members long into the future. Along the lines of the obituary I mentioned, you can search long and hard and never find a tombstone with the inscription that says “I wish I had spent more time at work”. I’m certain that if Daryl applies the same skills and management to his retirement as he has in his Farm Credit career, it will be as rewarding and satisfying as his time here. We can’t thank you enough Daryl.

PRESORT STANDARDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDJEFFERSON CITY, MO

Permit No. 210

how to enroll: To enroll and access your accounts online, visit www.myfcsfinancial.com and click on the Create an Account button. You will need the following items for the enrollment process:

• Valid e-mail address• Customer number (The Customer Number (CIF) can be found on the top of your

statement or billing.)• Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number• Loan Account Number and Outstanding Principle Balance Amount (These can be found

on a current statement.)

BENEFITS OF ONLINE ACCOUNT ACCESS:• Free 24/7 access to your account information. View your FCS Financial current balances,

interest information, transaction history, next payment date and more with one login.• Simple Navigation. The Home Page features a I would like to quick list of the most

commonly used items for your convenience such as make a payment, make a disbursement, add a bank account and pay now.

• Account Summary information is conveniently located on the home page. Highlight an account and right click to see Account Details.

• Set up your commercial bank information once and use it to make electronic transactions for payments and disbursements.

• Payments can be recurring or one-time only.• Disbursements can be made on revolving lines of credit.• Move Funds Held money from one FCS Financial loan to another FCS Financial loan.• Customer statements, credit line drafts and 1098/1099 IRS documents can be viewed

and printed.• Most recent billing statement can be viewed and printed. (Last one in the last 60 days.)• Pay Now allows you to pay your current bill with just a few clicks when there is a payment due.

account accessSimple. Convenient. Secure.

Use the “I would like to” links to make payments on your FCS Financial accounts, transfer funds between accounts, move Funds Held from one loan to another

need support? If you have any problems or questions, please email [email protected] or call 1-866-450-2308 for assistance. Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

We understand that accessing your financial information should be simple. And because your time is valuable, it should be convenient. But above all, your financial information must be secure. Online account access at FCS Financial is everything it should be and more.

heartbeat winter 2012

Documents

financial potential

jefferson city

joann pipkin4 heartbeat

heartbeat editor

queen city

heartbeatwith farming

familys farming operation

applegate airport