Ag CREDIT

First Quarter 2016

Members Receive $2.6 Million Stock Requirement Lowered Annual Meeting Profiles Young Farmers Can Borrow The LEADER is published quarterly for stockholders, directors, business associates and friends of the Central Kentucky Ag Credit Association. President & CEO James W. Caldwell

Board of Directors Central Kentucky Ag Credit Offices Alvin Lyons Danville Office Paris Office Chairman P.O. Box 326 P.O. Box 249 James C. Rankin, III 485 North Danville Bypass 201 Commerce Drive Vice Chairman Danville, KY 40422 Paris, KY 40361 859-236-6570 • 1-800-589-4261 859-987-4344 • 1-800-613-4292 James L. May Jerry Rankin Joe Goggin, Principal Loan Officer Russell Gray, Assistant Vice President & Joe Myers Kim Elliott, Loan Officer Senior Relationship Manager Lionel Williamson Greg Robey, Loan Officer Tom Zack Evans, Loan Officer Mary-Lynn Hinkel Jeremy Parker, Loan Originator Ben Robin, Loan Officer Tina Roney, Senior Loan Assistant Jordan Amburgey, Loan Officer Robert Anderson Editor Donna Price, Loan Assistant Amy Workman, Loan Originator Margie Roe, Loan Assistant Courtney Tarvin Marketing Coordinator Lebanon Office Richmond Office Claude L. Brock P.O. Box 544 P.O. Box 492 Writer 842 West Main Street 1000 Ival James Blvd. Address Changes Lebanon, KY 40033 Richmond, KY 40475 Address changes, questions, comments and 270-692-4411 • 1-800-264-0402 859-623-1624 • 1-888-820-3221 requests to cancel your free subscription to the Ag Richard Medley, Principal Loan Officer Chris Cooper, Senior Loan Officer Credit Leader should be sent to Central Kentucky Justin Craig, Senior Loan Officer Teresa Thomas, Loan Officer Agricultural Credit Association by calling 1-859-253- Brad Godbey, Loan Officer Karen Sarver, Loan Assistant 3249, or by mailing to P.O. Box 1290, Lexington, KY 40588-1290. Travis Mattingly, Loan Officer Stanford Office Financial Information Jeanine Williams, Senior Loan Assistant P.O. Box 367 The Farm Credit Administration does not Susan W. Mattingly, Loan Assistant 106 Agriculture Way Stanford, KY 40484 require the association to distribute its quarterly Ruthie Jackson, Office Clerk 606-365-7500 • 1-800-467-0039 financial reports to stockholders. Copies of the John Peek, Senior Loan Officer association’s annual and quarterly reports are available Lexington Office upon request free of charge by calling 1-800-589-7859, P.O. Box 1290 SaraVard VonGruenigen, Loan Officer or writing Marcus Barnett, Chief Financial Officer, 640 South Broadway Felicia Madden, Senior Loan Assistant Central Kentucky Ag Credit, P.O. Box 1290, Lexington, Lexington, KY 40508 KY 40588, or by accessing the association web site at 859-252-4717 • 1-888-820-3270 Tiffany Decker, Office Clerk www.AgCreditOnline.com. The association prepares Tara Davis,Clerical Assistant Shane Turner, Vice President - Credit an electronic version of the annual report which is Lisa Yeager, Loan Officer available on the association’s web site within 75 days Regional after the end of the fiscal year and distributes annual Willie Wilson, Loan Officer Lending Managers reports to shareholders within 90 days after the end of Caleb Sadler, Loan Officer 1-888-820-3270 the fiscal year. The association prepares an electronic Grace Gayheart, Loan Assistant Shane Turner, Vice President - Credit version of the quarterly report within 40 days after Marisa Sams, Loan Assistant Paul Wyler, Vice President - Credit the end of each fiscal quarter, except that no report need be prepared for the fiscal quarter that coincides with the end of the fiscal year of the institution. ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Privacy Policy Jim Caldwell, President and CEO Courtney Tarvin, Marketing Your online privacy is always a top concern at Marcus Barnett, VP and CFO Pam Johnston, Accountant Ag Credit. For a complete copy of the latest version of Robert Anderson, VP- Information Systems Bud Burdette, Appraiser the online privacy policy, please visit our web site and click on the homepage link. Review our Privacy Policy Jonathan Noe, VP and CLO Miranda Phillips, Credit Analyst Central Kentucky Ag Credit Kathy Saunders, Executive Assistant

2 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com On The Cover CREDIT Farm Credit Express Dealers Ag

First Quarter 2016 Spring will soon arrive Bevins Motor Company Red Barn and Assoc., L.L.C. in all its splendor. The Leader cover 1797 Lexington Road Charlie Edgington photo is a harbinger of beauty that 833 Onstott Road will soon spread throughout the Georgetown, KY 40324 Bluegrass Region. The 17-county 502-863-2529 • Lancaster, KY 40444 region that is served by Ag www.bevinsmotors.com 859-608-9745 Credit is known worldwide for www.redbarnandassociates.com spectacular horse farms and farmland Bevins Motor Company that ranges from gently rolling land, to hills that are lush 3365 Owingsville Road Clements Ag Supply Inc. with forests. Central Kentucky is your back yard. Enjoy it Mt. Sterling, KY 40353 1223 Lebanon Hill RD this spring. 859-497-4440 Springfield, KY 40069 In This Issue www.bevinsmotors.com 859-336-3112 Bevins Motor Company Haydon Equipment, Inc. Nominating Committee Named for 2017...... 4 4 Legion Road 40 KY Highway 392 Ag Credit is Financially Sound ...... 5 Paris, KY 40361 Cynthiana, KY 41031 859-234-4621 Board Authorizes $2.6 Million in Patronage ...... 6 859-987-4864 www.bevinsmotors.com Is it Good to Farm? ...... 7 Montgomery Tractor Sales Bevins Motor Company 1501 Winchester Road Five Ag Credit Ladies Attend Women’s Conference ...... 8 908 Commercial Drive Mt. Sterling, KY 40353 James Alvin Lyons Re-Elected to Ag Credit Board ...... 9 Richmond, KY 40475 859-498-0342 Jim Rankin Re-elected to Ag Credit Board ...... 9 859-624-4020 www.montgomerytractorsales.com www.bevinsmotors.com Board of Directors Lowers Stock Requirement...... 10 & 11 S & S Equipment 834 Polly’s Bend Road Double Duty for Loan Officers ...... 11 Central Equipment Co. 791 Red Mile Road Lancaster, KY 40444 Service Recognition ...... 11 Lexington, KY 40504 859-759-0386 Total Capital Hits Record $68 Million ...... 12 & 13 859-853-2611/866-855-9738 www.sandsequipment.com Equipment Financing ...... 14 www.centralequipment.com Wildcat Ag Services Loan Officers Attend “Next Generation” Conference ...... 14 Lawson Tractor & Implement, Inc. 1191 Lexington Road Lebanon Georgetown, KY 40324 Tarvin & Zinner Join Ag Credit ...... 15 846 West Main Street 502-542-8343 Young Farmers Can Borrow Money ...... 16 & 17 Lebanon, KY 40033 Lee Farm Equipment Willie Wilson Named to Leadership Class ...... 18 270-692-2169 3020 Highway 208 www.lawsontractor.com Ag Credit News ...... 18 & 19 Lebanon, KY 40033 270-692-0220 Ag Credit Leaders Visit Officials in Washington ...... 19 Lawson Tractor & Implement II, Inc. 6829 US Hwy 127 Rich Lee’s Cell: 502-693-7650 Continuing Education for Loan Officers ...... 20 Stanford, KY 40484 www.leefarmeq.com In The Community ...... 20 859-854-3500 Pingleton Trading Co. Insurance Protection ...... 21 www.lawsontractor.com 68 Richmond Road A Willingness to Serve ...... 21 Valley Farm Equipment Loop 2, Lancaster, KY 40444 131 East Lane, 859-661-2042 Vegetable Producers Meet in January ...... 22 Nicholasville, KY 40356 Winners Circle Trailer Personalized Pie! ...... 22 859-885-1879 Sales & Service Cattle Producer’s Convention Draws 1,300 ...... 23 Northside Equipment 3211 Georgetown Road Five Named to KCA Hall of Fame ...... 23 200 Automotive Drive Lexington, KY 40511 Richmond, KY 40475 859-367-0007 859-623-5167 Toll Free 855-670-2767 Holiday Closings www.northsideequipment.com www.winnerscircletrailers.com Good Friday Memorial Day Friday, March, 25 Monday, May 30 Independence Day Monday, July 4 www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader / 3 Nominating Committee Named by Ag Credit Membership for 2017

he 2017 Nominating Committee for the Central Kentucky Ag CreditT Association has been elected and will consist of six individuals from the Association. These individuals were elected to serve during the Ag Credit Annual For all Meeting on February 22 and 23.

The Nominating Committee who gave will function to recommend candidates for elected Association positions that may be expiring their yesterdays, at the end of 2016. Central Kentucky Ag Credit is a financial cooperative and part of the a thank you today... nationwide Farm Credit System. Member-borrowers of Ag Credit participate in filling elected positions with a one-member/ on this one-vote election system during each year’s Annual Meeting. Nominating Committee members who have been elected are: Memorial Day Bennie Gilbert, Joyce T. Pasley, John Sparks, Jason Whitehouse and David Lee Williams. Phillip Howard will serve on the Nominating Committee as an alternate member. The Board of Directors and Ag Credit Employees Danville • Lebanon • Lexington Paris • Richmond • Stanford

4 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com Ag Credit is Financially Sound in Every Way; Ready for Future Service As the old saying goes, “The proof Farm prices are uncertain. Grain is in the pudding!” Here’s a significant prices and cattle prices are down. overview as proof of your cooperative’s We are amid an election year when financial strength: leadership can cause change in the agricultural climate. Those realities • Over $2.6 million is being paid are among a host of others such as in cash to members as Patronage uncertain oil markets, a fluctuating Distribution for 2015. import-export market, and weather • Another $2.2 million is being conditions. As a result, financial wisdom credited to members, because and conservative management are likely the Board of Directors have watchwords for the months ahead. lowered the maximum stock requirement to 2% or a maximum Ag Credit is ready to keep your of $1,000, down from 2% or a financial foundation strong. Our ability maximum of $3,000. to weather uncertain economic times James W. Caldwell • Ag Credit has distributed is good. And, our expert Loan Officers President & CEO patronage for 19 consecutive know how to work with you in good Central Kentucky Ag Credit years, amounting to nearly times and in challenging times, because $22 million. they understand agriculture and care • Assets of Ag Credit are strong, about your success. g Credit was host to over 300 with high credit quality. member-borrowers during • Your Board of Directors is During the Annual Meetings this the cooperative’s February experienced, progressive, year, I chose to use several quotes from AnnualA Meetings. That attendance and faithful to the mission of the wisdom of President Abraham was higher than experienced during providing quality credit to Lincoln, our most quotable U.S. many past years, a participation among full- and part-time farmers and President. One of his quotes stands out members that is encouraging. Since Ag rural residents. in bold letters. It is, “Whatever you Credit is owned by members who are • The Association’s six, full-service are, be a good one.” served by the Association, we welcome branch locations are fully staffed the growing interest in business matters with experienced professionals This Lincoln quote also has of the cooperative. who can meet any farm and rural business implications. When I think home loan need. about the business of Central Kentucky The financial health of Ag Credit Ag Credit, this quote especially applies. is excellent. Association assets Yes, during this year’s Annual For over eighty years, the association grew about $25 million in 2015. At Meeting, I was delighted to be part of has focused on one thing … providing December 31, 2015, Ag Credit’s capital the Ag Credit team who reported good dependable financial services to rural level was $68 million, an increase performance for the Association. I communities and agriculture. of 63% since 2011. Last year’s asset also know that quality of Ag Credit’s growth was largely influenced by real members largely influences the health That is our charge … to be a solid, estate loans, as compared to 2014, when of the Association. We all thank you for reliable partner with the people we livestock loans dominated the growth your good financial management that serve. pattern. results in timely loan payments, good records-keeping and quality use of loan That’s who we are! I could go on-and-on with funds. Your activity is a major part of endless numbers which clearly show Ag Credit’s success. Our goal, as always – and best said that Ag Credit’s financial strength is by Mr. Lincoln – is to “be a good one.” good. However, you can see all that While the financial progress of Ag information in your Annual Report, and Credit is a reality, I must now address by visiting many reports on our website another reality that is taking place at www.AgCreditOnline.com, and in in central Kentucky and throughout this issue of the Leader magazine. agriculture in America.

www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader / 5 Board Authorizes $2.6 Million in Patronage to Borrowers

ember -borrowers of Central Kentucky outstanding manner. “We are a quality lender, and Ag Credit will receive over $2.6 million in are pleased that our loan portfolio clearly shows we patronage distribution. The major financial have thousands of quality borrowers.” Noe went on to announcementM was made during the Association’s explain that Ag Credit patronage distribution essentially Annual Meeting in February. According to President & lowers the effective interest rate of borrowers. “Our CEO Jim Caldwell, eligible members who did business interest rates are already competitive, and when with the cooperative in 2015 will receive money during patronage is paid the cost of borrowing for each March and April. beneficiary of patronage is reduced,” says Noe.

The current patronage distribution marks the 19th consecutive year that Central Kentucky Ag Credit has declared a patronage distribution. The distribution is determined after all operating expenses and financial reserves are determined. The cooperative’s board of directors then authorizes the distribution. Patronage Distribution The current $2.6 million cash patronage Program is nearly as large as last year, which was $2.8 million. Altogether, during the past 19 years, Central Kentucky Ag Credit has returned patronage to its members totaling over $21 million. $3.0 $3.0 Jim Caldwell observed that patronage distribution of the magnitude of this year’s payments are major injections in the regional $2.5 $2.5 economy. “With grain and livestock prices uncertain this year, $2.0 $2.0 more cash to farmers shores up the farm economy and has positive impact on general spending in the central Kentucky region,” says Caldwell. $1.5 $1.5

Marcus Barnett, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ag Credit said patronage $1.0 $1.0 distribution by Ag Credit as a cooperative can be compared to stock dividends that are paid by corporations to their stockholders. “The $0.5 $0.5 difference is that Ag Credit patronage payments are distributed to those who use the financial 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 service of Ag Credit - borrowers are, in fact, our $0 $0 owners,” explained Barnett. MILLIONS MILLIONS

Jonathan Noe, Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of Ag Credit said the cooperative’s patronage distribution is made $ million possible in part because borrowers are meeting 21 returned since 1998 their loan commitments to Ag Credit in an

6 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com The Ribbon Cutting The Professor Speaks By Dr. David M. Kohl, Professor Emeritus - Virginia Tech and President – AgriVisions, LLC Is it Good to Farm?

In 2013 Dodge ran a Super producers, this increase will only and exhibit good work habits such Bowl commercial for its Ram require 70% of the current resource as, timeliness, ability to follow Truck featuring Paul Harvey’s base. In that light, innovation and direction and social maturity, will Itribute to farmers. Showing the technology will be keys for success. have boundless opportunity. difficulty, reality and beauty of a Build upon principles of the past farmer’s work, the ad was wildly generation and focus on productive Finally, life on a farm is special. popular, because so few actually assets. Philosophies of “efficiency I often hear during informal get to experience farming. The before growth” or “better is better conversations with producers agriculture industry in many sectors before bigger is better” can lead to that raising a family on the farm is going through an economic reset. prosperity in agriculture. is priceless. Growing up on a A dedicated Farm Credit Association working farm affords children team member recently asked me In addition, farming encourages a unique perspective since less the question “Is it good to farm?” the entrepreneurial spirit. Farming than two percent of our country’s She inquired in earnest on behalf of rewards creativity and innovation in population are directly involved in clients, family and neighbors who several areas, including production production agriculture. Farm life are each concerned about industry and marketing. Every farm allows children to gain emotional challenges. operation is structured differently, intelligence. Whether or not thus offering flexibility in the they ever learn to drive a tractor, My immediate response was alignment of the many moving children growing up on a farm “yes.” The agriculture industry pieces. There is no formula in absorb a heightened sense of is strong and opportunistic, farming or magic strategy that responsibility, teambuilding, life- particularly farming. According guarantees success. Success can and-death, as well as the seasonal to farm record summaries, the top be created in numerous ways. nature of the industry. That type of 20% of managers consistently earn Future growth may be in local, intelligence is a life-building, rare a six percent rate of return above natural or organic products, skill. Benefits such as farm life do long-term rate of inflation and or perhaps, in traditional farm not always have a dollar amount above long-term rates of borrowed operations, or maybe in larger, assigned. capital. Granted, these are above more complex, extended family average managers who maintain corporations. Farming is a widely- Regardless of the economic good financials and management varied profession. Depending on outlook, the cycle, or even where practices, and are prudent in your destination, there is a type of we are in the cycle, it is still good to investments, living withdrawals, farming to get you there. be in agriculture and, yes, to farm. and farm costs. These managers do The agriculture industry is integral not handle the largest operations, I recently spoke to a Future to global economics, continuing but manage within the realm of Farmers of American (FFA) group innovation, and generations of their resources. Therefore, if profits in Franklin County, Virginia. sustainability. Farming requires are a priority in measuring long- During my presentation a young strength of body, mind and heart. term success, analysis proves that participant asked if there was a It is meaningful and fulfilling work opportunities abound. bright future for young people in that provides food, feed, fiber and agriculture. As with the Farm Credit fuel upon which life is sustained. Globally, the big picture for representative, my response was That is honorable and good. agriculture is bright. Estimates a quick and energetic, “yes!” The suggest that by the year 2050 an agriculture industry directly or additional 60% to 70% more fiber, indirectly represents approximately food and fuel will be consumed one in six jobs in America. Young globally. For our next generation of people who understand technology

www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader / 7 The Ribbon Cutting Five Ag Credit Ladies Attend Annual Women’s Conference

Shown here at the Kentucky Women in Agriculture Ag Credit; and Miranda Phillips, Credit Analyst, Ag Credit Conference (KWIA) during November are five of Ag Credit’s Administrative Office in Lexington. The threeday KWIA female leaders. Shown (left to right) are Kim Elliott, Loan Conference featured a wide range of nationally-known Officer, Danville Ag Credit; Lisa Yeager, Loan Officer, speakers and a variety of seminars and sessions ranging from Lexington Ag Credit; SaraVard VonGruenigen, Loan Officer, business subjects to lifestyle topics. Stanford Ag Credit; Teresa Thomas, Loan Officer, Richmond

Terry Gilbert of Boyle County is shown second from left the future at the local, state and national level, especially in in this photo and she received the Laura Clay Award during agriculture and its communities. the Kentucky Women in Agriculture Conference Novem- ber 9-11. The Laura Clay Award is the highest honor given Shown (left to right) with Terry Gilbert are Central Ken- by KWIA. Terry was the first president of KWIA, and she tucky Ag Credit women who provide leadership roles in the remains an active leader with the Kentucky Farm Bureau State association. They are Miranda Phillips; Terry Gilbert (the hon- Women’s Committee. Ms. Gilbert’s honor is given to recognize oree); Kim Elliott; Lisa Yeager; Teresa Thomas; and SaraVard Kentuckians who are making a difference in today’s world and VonGruenigen.

8 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com James Alvin Lyons Re-Elected to Ag Credit Board

ames Alvin Lyons has been re- In addition, he owns half interest in elected by the membership of Ag Lyons Family Farm LLC, a labor and J Credit to serve another four years equipment-sharing entity. on the Association’s Board of Directors. Mr. Lyons is current Alvin, a 58-year-old full-time Chairman of the Board and will farmer, holds memberships on the Scott continue in that capacity. His past County Farm Bureau Board of Directors; service to Ag Credit has also included the Scott County Beef Improvement Vice Chairman of the Board and Board; and the Scott County Rural Land Chairman of the Compensation Management Board. He also serves on Committee. the Kentucky Ag Leadership Program Advisory Board and is a Magistrate with Mr. Lyons is a lifelong Scott County the Scott County Fiscal Court resident. He and his wife, Debbie, own 300-acres and lease an additional He is a member and Chairman of 400-acres. His cropping program Trustees for Long Lick Baptist Church consists of 50 acres of alfalfa, 125 acres in Scott County, and Alvin is a graduate of corn, 125 acres of soybeans and of Scott County High School. He and 30 acres of tobacco. He also has a 75 Debbie are parents of two grown head commercial cow-calf program children. and backgrounds his feeder cattle.

Jim Rankin Re-elected to Ag Credit Board

ames C. Rankin, III, was re-elected to serve a four-year term on the Ag Credit Board of Directors J during the Association’s February Annual Meeting. His re-election marks his second term of office, and he will continue as the Board’s Vice Chairman.

A Bourbon County resident, Mr. Rankin and his wife, Elizabeth, own 115-acres and lease 130-acres. He raises 75 acres of alfalfa, and owns half interest in a 65 head cow-calf operation with his son. He also owns Thoroughbred mares, and boards Thoroughbred mares and foals for clients. He is a licensed equine trainer and is active in horse racing in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Jim earned his degree in Agriculture from the University of This photo shows Jim in conversation with Marcus Barnett, Ag Credit Vice President and CFO, Kentucky, and he is 59-years-of age. He and Jim’s wife, Elizabeth, at right. and Elizabeth attend Disciples of Christ Church and are parents of two grown children.

www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /9 The Ag Credit Board of Directors is shown here. Seated at left is Alvin Lyons, Chairman. Seated at right is James C. Rankin, III, Vice Chairman. Standing (left to right) are Jerry Rankin; Joe Myers; Dr. Lionel Williamson; James L. May; and Mary-Lynn Hinkel. Board of Directors Lowers Ag Credit Stock Requirement; Over 1,500 Eligible Members Can Claim Reduction Immediately To accomplish the reduction, existing borrowers need only sign a stock retirement form at your local Ag Credit branch office.

he Ag Credit Board of Following is the announcement of Association capital is the member Directors has lowered the that was made by Jim May on behalf stock investment. By regulation, Cooperative Stock Require- of the Board of Directors during member-borrowers of the Associa- Tment for member-borrowers. The Annual Meeting Sessons, February tion are required to purchase capital action came in an announcement 22-23: stock at a level determined by the at the Association’s Regional Annual Board of Directors in accordance Meeting Sessions, February 22 and “The Board and Management with guidelines outlined in the 23. The announcement was made closely review the capitalization Association Bylaws. by Jim May on behalf of the Ag levels associated with our busi- Credit Board of Directors, and it will ness. We all know how important “The current member stock result in a $2.2 million impact on requirement is 2 percent of the loan the central Kentucky economy. amount or $3,000, whichever is less. Watch the next edition of the So the maximum stock amount for The major financial announce- Ag Credit Leader for another any one borrowing entity is $3,000. ment is in addition to the Patronage story regarding this impor- This member stock requirement Distribution that is also being made tant reduction in the Ag has been in effect since April 1996 by Ag Credit for the 2015 calendar – almost 20 years. This capital stock year. Credit stock requirement. level has served us well as we have seen the Association grow from its With Patronage Distribution capital is to our farming operations 1996 levels of $60 million to over amounting to $2.6 million in cash, and it is similarly important to the $400 million today. At the same plus the $2.2 million in savings that (Ag Credit) Association. For these time, and especially over the past will be realized with the lowered reasons, the Board regularly moni- three years of record earnings, our stock requirement, a combined tors capital sources and levels to overall capital levels have increased. financial impact in the 17 central insure full utilization of equity, while The Association has been able to pay Kentucky counties served by Ag providing adequate protection a strong patronage dividend and, at Credit totals over $4.8 million. against downturns. One component (Continued on next page)

10 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com (Continued from previous page)

Double Duty for Loan Officers Jim May Member hese eleven professional Ag Credit Loan Officers were among those who Ag Credit Board of Directors did “double duty” at the February Ag Credit Regional Annual Meeting in the same time, retain a portion of Danville. Of course, Ag Credit member-borrowers expect the highest expertT loan assistance from the association, which these fellows always deliver. But, the earnings and build our capital the group were also excellent hosts when they fired up the grill and cooked great base. steaks for the Annual Meeting meal. Other loan officers had also cooked at the Lexington Annual Meeting, which took place the night before the Danville session. “I am pleased to announce that the Board has considered the The photographer managed to round up the crew in Danville to take this picture member stock requirement and while charcoal was heating up in the grill. the decision has been reached to reduce the member stock require- Shown (left to right): Jordan Amburgy, Loan Officer, Paris; Ben Robin, Loan ment from 2% or $3,000 to 2% or Officer, Paris; Shane Turner, Vice President-Credit, Lexington; Tom Zack Evans, $1,000, whichever is less. Loan Officer, Paris; Chris Cooper, Senior Loan Officer, Richmond; Greg Robey, Loan Officer, Danville; Jeff Zinner, Loan Officer, Lexington; Willie Wilson, Loan Officer, Lexington; Joe Goggin, Principal Loan Officer, Danville; Russell Gray, Assistant “Essentially, the change means Vice President & Senior Relationship Manager, Paris; and Caleb Sadler, Loan Officer, the maximum stock amount for any Lexington. one borrowing entity will go from $3,000 to $1,000. The change will be effective March 1, 2016 and will put Ag Credit at the regulatory mini- mum stock requirement.

“The change in the member stock requirement will result in $2.2 million in retired capital stock and over 1,500 borrowers will be impacted by the move.

“When combined with the $2.6 million patronage distribution from 2015, the $2.2 million stock reduc- Service Recognition tion results in almost $5 million in capital returned to the membership uring the Ag Credit Regional Annual Meeting Sessions in February six of the Association. This capital injec- individuals were honored for their length of service with the Association. tion comes at a time when farmers Each person was individually recognized, with a hearty thanks from the AssociationD and its Board of Directors. are facing ever-increasing volatil- ity and uncertainty - so the timing Shown here (left to right): Paul Wyler, Vice President – Credit, 35 years of couldn’t be better. The Ag Credit service; Tina Roney, Senior Loan Assistant in Danville, 15 years of service; Jerry Board is pleased that the Association Rankin, Board of Directors Member, Boyle County, 20 years of service; Alvin Lyons, has the financial strength to affect Board of Directors Chairman, Scott County, 15 years of service; Jim May, Board of this type of impact on our local ag Directors Member, Lincoln County, 25 years of service; and Willie Wilson, Loan economy.” Officer in Lexington, 5 years of service. www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /11 Total Capital Hits Record $68 Million by Courtney Travin & Claude L. Brock

ember-borrowers, direc- tors, staff and their families gathered on February 22 and M23 for the annual meeting of the Central Kentucky Agricultural Credit Associa- tion. Regional meetings were held in both Lexington and Danville, marking the 82nd year of the Association.

President and CEO, Jim Caldwell, announced the Association continued to set record high marks in financial growth for 2015. Among many high- lights, it was announced that total capital of the Association has grown to a record $68 Million.

Over the past 19 years, Ag Credit has returned to customers over $21 million through the Patronage Distribution program.

12 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com “Whatever you are, be a good one.” im Caldwell explained how one of Abraham Lincoln’s most famous quotes relates to Ag Credit. “For J over eighty years, the association has focused on one thing – providing dependable financial services to rural communities and agriculture. That is our charge – to be a solid, reliable partner with the people we serve,” said Caldwell.

To see more Abraham Lincoln quotes from the presentation, check-out AgCreditOnline.com/news

www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /13 Loan Officers Attend “Next Generation” Conference

wo of Ag Credit’s Loan Officers attended a conference in Louisville that focused on lendingT to young, beginning and small farmers. Justin Craig, a Lebanon Loan Officer, and Willie Wilson, a Lexington Loan Officer, attended the meeting late On-the-Spot Financing at last year. The “Lending to the Next Generation of Agriculture Conference” featured discussions of programs, Your Equipment Dealer! sharing insight and gaining new perspectives as it pertained to lending Buying farm equipment is fast and easy when using Farm Credit EXPRESS. practices with young, beginning and small farmers. Ag Credit offers on-the-spot financing through many equipment dealers in central Kentucky. It is not necessary to be a member of Ag Credit. More than 100 individuals attended the conference. Speakers and panelists included customers, loan officers Ag Credit’s Farm Credit EXPRESS and representatives from outside organizations who offered new insights on how the Farm Credit System can is easy and competitive! build relationships with the young generation of farmers. • Fast financing right at the dealership. Jennifer Armbruster, National • No need to visit an Ag Credit Office. Communications Manager for the Farm • You become an Ag Credit member. Credit Council, explained the relevance of young, beginning and small farmers • You can share in Ag Credit Patronage Distribution. in the Farm Credit System, as the • Competitive interest rates. nationwide agricultural lending system moves through its 100th year of service • Convenient payment plans. in America. • Anyone can use EXPRESS equipment financing. The “Lending to the Next • EXPRESS features local financing – money stays in Generation of Agriculture Conference” the community! was presented by the Farm Credit Council, a Washington-based organization that provides services and information for the nationwide Don’t Delay. See Your Dealer Now. Farm Credit System, of which Central Kentucky Ag Credit is a part.

14 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com Tarvin & Zinner Join Ag Credit

she attended under the auspices of a that time, he worked for three years as livestock judging scholarship. Livestock Exhibitor Coordinator with the Kentucky Department of Agricul- She was also a member of the ture in Frankfort. Saddle & Sirloin Club and Collegiate Cattle Women of Ohio State. Courtney Jeff’s career has encompassed virtu- has been involved in livestock judging ally every type of livestock agriculture throughout her high school and college experience, including beef cattle, careers, and she placed 6th Overall at sheep, dairy cattle, swine, equine the Senior Collegiate Livestock Judging breeds and a variety of exotic breeds. Courtney Tarvin Contest, which is the most important senior-level judging contest in the Jeff earned his education at Eastern Fills Marketing nation. She also served internships Kentucky University, where he received at the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association; two degrees, including a B. S. in Agri- Position Hinton Mills at Mayslick, KY; and with culture with a Business emphasis, and the News Room of the North American an Associate’s Degree in Technical Ag- ourtney Tarvin has been International Livestock Exposition. riculture with a Livestock Management named Marketing Coordina- emphasis. He attended Eastern under tor with Central Kentucky Ag Courtney has one sister, who the auspices of a President’s Scholar- C is a student at Oklahoma State ship, was a member of Delta Tau Alpha, Credit. Her work with the association will include facilitation and coordina- University. Their parents are Eric and graduated Summa Cum Laude. He tion of the cooperative’s many market- and Karen Tarvin. has also done extensive graduate work ing and communication activities. at the University of Kentucky in Career and Technical Education. Courtney is a native of Mt. Olivet, KY in Robertson County and she has His professional and community a strong background in agriculture service is extensive. He is former mem- and communications. Prior to assum- ber of the North American Livestock ing the Ag Credit marketing position, Show & Rodeo Manager’s Association, Courtney was Marketing Manager with and the Louisville-based Agri-Business S. J. Neathawk Lumber Company in Industry Network. He is a current Lewisburg, West Virginia. member of the Franklin County Farm Bureau; Kentucky Cattlemen’s Asso- She was raised on the 600-acre Jeff Zinner Named ciation; is a livestock leader with the family farm in Robertson County, an Franklin County 4-H/FFA; has an honor- operation that featured a 200-head Loan Officer ary Kentucky FFA Degree; is a USDA cow/calf operation and production of Certified Livestock Grader; and coaches 20 acres of Burley tobacco. As a high with Lexington soccer at the Frankfort YMCA. school student, she was active as a member and officer in 4-H and FFA, A native of Boyle County, Jeff is the where she showed cattle, lambs, hogs Ag Credit son of John and Joyce Zinner. His wife, and goats. She was also President of Megan, is a former resident of Bourbon the Bracken County FFA, and Regional Jeff Zinner has joined Ag Credit County and is the daughter of Lynn and President of the Licking River FFA. as a Loan Officer and he brings a Joe Smart. Jeff and Megan are parents J rich background in agriculture of two children. Courtney earned her degree in Ag- to the Association. Jeff served the ricultural Communications at the Ohio State of Kentucky for 12 years, domi- Jeff and Megan currently reside State University in Columbus, where nantly in the area of livestock agricul- with their children in Franklin County, she attended under the auspices of ture. Most recently he was Assistant where Jeff also raises Hampshire sheep academic and livestock judging scholar- Manager of the North American Inter- and crossbreds for market show pur- ships Prior to that time, she earned her national Livestock Exposition for the poses. They are members of the First Associates Degree in Agriculture from Kentucky State Fair Board in Louisville, United Methodist Church in Frankfort. Blinn College in Brenham, TX, which a position he held for 9 years. Prior to

www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /15 Young Farmers Can Borrow Money; Ag Credit is Youth Lending Leader Loan Professionals Reflect on Lending to Young Farmers by Claude L. Brock

oung, beginning and small portion of their loans are made to demonstrate use of the loan and how it farmers are the future of young, beginning and small farmers in can lead to farm stability. agriculture. At present Marion and Washington Counties. Yapproximately 30% of loans at Central A few simple tips for young, Kentucky Ag Credit are made to young The Medley-Craig lending duo beginning and small farmers can make farmers 35-years-of-age or under. explained that making loans to young, the loan process a better experience: beginning and small farmers requires While statistics regarding young a lot of work. The reason is that in 1. Have a plan for operations. farmers and loan volume as shown most cases young people have not had 2. Include in your plan reasons why above are interesting, the combination time to amass substantial net worth, a you want to be a farmer. is powerful, challenging and requires factor that almost invariably excludes 3. How are you going to do the job. the best talent and ingenuity of both them from obtaining loans from most 4. Prepare financial records, the borrower and the lender. Ag commercial lending sources. The result including cash flows, repayment Credit is a veteran when it comes to is a “do or die” situation. Chances of ability, balance sheets. understanding loan challenges that face success diminish if you can’t obtain a 5. How do you plan to use proceeds young farmers, and the Association is loan. If you do obtain a loan, you better from the loan. an innovator at making loans to them. do a good job of managing the farm operation to meet loan obligations. Records Pave Way to Success All Ag Credit offices are active in Ag Credit loan officers stress it making loans to young farmers, and is highly important that first-time the Association’s Lebanon Office has borrowers understand the importance demonstrated leadership in this area. of record keeping. Jonathan Noe, Vice- Richard Medley and Justin Craig, Loan President and Chief Lending Officer Officers with Lebanon Ag Credit, are for the Association, observes that good equipped with the best possible loan records are like a good road map … products to make lending possible to they keep the farming operation on young, beginning and small farmers track “without wrecking the car!” (as are all other Ag Credit offices). Jonathan also explains that when a Last year they loaned significant loan is made to young, beginning and amounts to farmers under 35 years small farmers, Ag Credit loan officers of age, with most loans made for real “ Good are encouraged to establish long-term estate, a signal that young farmers are records relationships with borrowers to help serious about building solid equity for are like a them achieve success through good future operations. Land is important. farming and financial decisions. No more of it is being made. Assuming good road map – they keep the care, improvement and proper use, land “We want young borrowers to can appreciate in value. farming operation be successful, and we do everything on track without possible from origination of the loan to A Passion and Future View wrecking the car!” maturation of the farming plan to help Richard Medley says “we have a Jonathan Noe young member-borrowers succeed,” passion to do it.” Vice President / says Noe. Chief Lending Officer Justin Craig says “we need to work Richard Medley and Justin Craig with young farmers now if we expect observe that the first loan made to to have them with us ten years from “We do a lot of extra work now to young, beginning and small farmers is now.” make young farmer loans possible,” says certainly not an end of the transaction. Craig. Both Medley and Craig say when “We want our first loan to lead to more Apparently Richard and Justin a young borrower applies for a loan, the loans, because that is a signal that the believe in what they say. Together job for everyone is made much easier if their loan portfolios show a significant the potential borrower is prepared to

16 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com member-borrower is financially sound beginning and small farmers, a and making money,” they say. factor that automatically stimulates Young Farmers Can Borrow Money; Ag Credit is Youth Lending Leader relationships and empathy with life Richard and Justin use their “loan goals and challenges. tools” in an expert manner. The two, primary tools include Ag Credit’s When viewing profiles of today’s strong relationship with the Kentucky young, beginning and small farmers, it Agricultural Finance Corporation is readily apparent that women exercise (KAFC), and the Farm Service Agency great influence in farming and financial (FSA). decisions. Ag Credit loan officers observe it is important for women to They describe KAFC as well-run be involved with farm and borrowing with a streamlined lending program plans of the family. Medley and Craig that enables low interest rates for say “farming and borrowing are long- young, beginning and small farmers. term commitments and women are While funds from this source mostly invested in decisions.” represent part of an overall loan, low interest rates create a blended rate As young people make decisions Justin Craig, Senior Loan Officer at Ag Credit’s Lebanon that makes borrowing less expensive to embark on full- or part-time farming Office, is shown examining a file in his office. With him is for young farmers. The KAFC has careers, Ag Credit professionals feel Susan Mattingly, a Loan Assistant in Lebanon. been made possible through the Ag strongly that ultimate profit and Development Fund from the master financial stability will come as a result tobacco program settlement. Medley of good management. summarized his view of the KAFC program as “a great tobacco program Sure, crops and livestock are key legacy.” to farming success. However, Jim Caldwell, Ag Credit’s President and CEO Ag Credit has long been ranked as a observes that, “if you don’t manage preferred lender with the Farm Service wisely and keep good records, your Agency (FSA). Affiliation with FSA is chances of success are pretty slim.” a valuable asset to Ag Credit, since the He concludes, “that’s where Ag Credit program allows flexible loan standards. fits … we provide quality loans and wholesome relationships to quality Ag Credit’s Jonathan Noe points farmers who are willing to grow and out that relationships with KAFC and develop their farming techniques and Richard Medley and Jeanine Williams are shown during FSA – combined with the lending power their management capabilities … the a work session at Lebanon. Richard is a Principal Loan of Central Kentucky Ag Credit – can combination is positively dramatic.” Officer at the Lebanon Ag Credit Office and Jeanine is a provide long-term loans to qualified Senior Loan Assistant. young, beginning and small farmers of Information Sharing up to 97%. The 21st Century marks a time when information sharing has Growing Together Good peaked, almost beyond imagination. Team Combination Young farmers talk to one another at meetings, but also use a host of During interviews with Medley, internet sites, computer programs and Craig and Noe, everyone indicated educational resources. Sharing is a that loans to young farmers are good, key element to success. As a result, because transactions occur at the start Central Kentucky Ag Credit’s Board of of their farming careers. That places Directors authorized creation of an Ag the lender and the borrower at the Credit Young Farmer Council two years same place and the same time to begin ago. That Council meets regularly and progress toward profit and stability by is comprised of young farm couples growing together. who reside in the central Kentucky Jeanine Williams and Ruthie Jackson are shown reviewing region. The Council is another way files at the Lebanon Office. Ruthie is an Office Clerk at Richard Medley also points out in which Ag Credit is investing in the Lebanon Ag Credit. that most loan officers at Ag Credit successful futures of young families in are in the same age bracket as young, the Bluegrass Region.

www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /17 Ag Credit NEWS Willie Wilson Named to Leadership Class

Timmy Jones (right) is shown receiving an “Outstanding Farmer” award at the January Annual Banquet of the Lebanon-Marion County Chamber of Commerce. Timmy and his wife, Kim, are dairy farmers at Loretto in Marion County. Justin Craig, Senior Loan Officer at Lebanon Ag Credit, was presenting the honor to Timmy when illie Wilson, a Loan this photo was taken. Officer with Ag Credit in Lexington, has been namedW to the current class that will study with the Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program. He is one of 22 individuals who have been selected to Class XI of the well-known leadership program.

The Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program spans a two-year period and is a broad and intensive study of domestic and international agriculture. The program consists of ten seminars, including trips to Frankfort, Washington D.C., Kentucky agribusinesses, an agricultural visit to another state, and an international trip which is selected with input by participants. The class has already met twice, in January and February, with additional major seminars scheduled for March, July, October, November and December.

A primary goal of the Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program is to prepare participants to accept Photo by Eric B. Comley, UK leadership responsibility in agriculture, agri-business and rural communities. Charity Browning, a 4-H member from Garrard County, is shown holding the head of her Champion Market Lamb during the Garrard County Investment in Youth The past ten classes of the Sale. With her is SaraVard VonGruenigen, a loan officer with Stanford Ag Credit. Kentucky Agricultural Leadership SaraVard was doing double duty at the Youth Sale. She purchased the market lamb Program have graduated a total of 267 for Ag Credit and she was entertaining her son, 2-year-old Ken Tuck. participants.

18 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com Ag Credit Leaders Visit Elected

This group of Farm Bureau Officials in Washington members and guests in Marion County were listening closely to comments from elected officials at an early morning breakfast meeting during January. State Representative Terry Mills and State Senator Jimmy Higdon are shown at This group visited with Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) / Senate Majority Leader while in Washington, D.C. for the Annual Meeting of the Farm Credit Council. Senator McConnell is at center, the head table as they with Ag Credit Board Chairman Alvin Lyons standing at left, next to the Senator. Jim Caldwell, Ag discuss legislative Credit’s President and CEO is at far left in the photo, with Ag Credit’s Board Member Jim May shown matters with the second from right in the back row. group. he Farm Credit Council Annual Meeting took place in Washington, D.C. during early February, and three Central Kentucky Ag Credit leaders joined T the national gathering. They were Alvin Lyons, Chairman of the Ag Credit Board of Directors; Jim May, Member of the Ag Credit Board of Directors; and Jim Caldwell, President & CEO of Central Kentucky Ag Credit.

According to reports from the Farm Credit Council, over 300 meetings were held with elected officials, with Farm Credit leaders from across America visiting with Senators and Representatives to update them regarding the system’s activities in farm and rural lending.

Messrs. Lyons, May and Caldwell spent time on Capitol Hill with Senators Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul, and other elected officials.

Ag Credit is part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and has provided financial services to member borrowers for 82 years. The nationwide Farm Credit System is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year, a theme that was also carried to elected representatives in Washington during visits that punctuated the Farm Credit Council Annual Meeting.

Timmy and Kim Jones are shown at center in this family photo. At left is Timmy’s mother, Janice. At right is Timmy’s dad, John. Timmy is shown holding the “Outstanding Farmer” trophy that is awarded to a Marion County farmer each year by the Lebanon-Marion County Chamber of Commerce.

Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) / former Presidential Candidate is shown at center with Jim May, Ag Credit’s Board member. Jim Caldwell, Ag Credit’s President & CEO is standing behind Rand Paul. The visit with Senator Paul marked a busy time for Ag Credit leaders who were in Washington to participate in the Annual Meeting of the Farm Credit Council. www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /19 Continuing Education for Loan Officers

g Credit Loan Officers continually undergo training Officer in Lexington and Jordon is a Loan Officer in Paris. to assure they are up-to-date on financial services and The Farm Credit University Halftime Session took place in lending practices that benefit member-borrowers. Charlotte, North Carolina. It was a conference to discuss and ShownA here are two Ag Credit professionals who attended a review material that had been gathered during the mentoring Farm Credit University Halftime Session during October. Caleb process of Farm Credit University courses. Dr. David Kohl is Sadler is at left in the green shirt, and Jordon Amburgey is third kneeling at right and his “Professor Speaks” column appears from the right in the back row with red shirt. Caleb is a Loan regularly in the Ag Credit Leader. In The Community

g Credit Loan Officers can be seen at events throughout central KentuckyA on a regular basis. These “Thank You” notes were received by Ag Credit Loan Officers who provided recent community service in Lincoln County, Boyle County and Mercer County. Enjoy!

20 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com A Willingness to Serve: Insurance Ag Credit Extends Appreciation Protection ervice on the Ag Credit Board of Directors is a commitment that requires time and a steep learning curve for those who serve on the Board. The Board of Against Loss is Directors and staff of the Association are deeply grateful for individuals who areS willing to serve the Association. Harvey Jared Ayres and Patrick Higginbotham extended their willingness to be members of the Board during an election at the Good Business Ag Credit Regional Annual Meetings to fill the expiring terms of Messrs. Lyons and Jim Rankin. While Alvin Lyons and Jim Rankin were re-elected to serve on entral Kentucky Agricul- the Ag Credit Board of Directors, sincere appreciation is sent to Messrs. Ayers tural Credit Association and Higginbotham for their willingness to serve the Association. They are both loan agreements stipulate members of Ag Credit. Cthat borrowers obtain and main- tain insurance on property that is pledged as security for loans, with the association named as mortgagee or loss payee as appropriate.

This notice is a reminder that the minimum amount of coverage required to be maintained is the lesser of your loan balances, the ac- tual cash value of the property, the replacement cost of the property or the amount stipulated by your loan officer. Since the amount required could be less than the amount for Harvey Jared Ayers which the property is insured, you Mr. Ayers owns 183 acres and are encouraged to consider higher leases 1,260 acres in Garrard County. limits where applicable to adequate- He also owns 126 acres and leases 300 ly protect your equity interest in the acres in an additional partnership. His Patrick N. Higginbotham property. farm program consists of 85 acres of tobacco on his wholly-owned land, and Mr. Higginbotham and his wife, If the property securing your another 15 acres in the partnership Erica, are residents of Fayette County, loan consists of improved real arrangement. He raises alfalfa for and they own 105-acres of land. They estate, unless otherwise advised, at grazing on 40 acres, and is a lifelong operate a horse boarding operation a minimum your policy must insure farmer. with 36 horses and produce 4,000- 5,000 square bales of hay annually. against the following perils: Fire and lightening, wind, hail, aircraft A member of the Garrard County Ag Development Board, Jared also Patrick was raised on a farm in or vehicle damage, riot or civil com- serves on the Board of the Central Columbia, Kentucky, and has been a motion, explosion, smoke damage, Kentucky Angus Association and the farmer for seven years. He is a full- water damage (other than flood), Central Kentucky Angus Corporation. time pharmacist for the Veterans falling objects, weight of snow, ice He is a member of the Kentucky Angus Administration Hospital in Lexington, or sleet and vandalism. Loss of dam- Association, the Lexington-Bluegrass and also serves on the Fayette County age from flooding is also required if Association of Realtors and the Farm Bureau Board of Directors. your loan was made after October 4, Kentucky Auctioneer Association. 1996, and at the time the loan was He earned his pre-requisites and made the property was located in a Jared recently became an order a Doctoral Degree in Pharmacy from the University of Kentucky, and is a government mandated Special Flood buyer for S & B Cattle Company, is a graduate of Adair County High School Hazard Area and flood insurance licensed Realtor and Auctioneer, and works with Danny Ayres Realty and in Columbia. Patrick is 39-years-of- was available. Auction. He owns rental property in age and a member of Trinity Christian the A & H Property partnership. Mr. Fellowship in Lexington. He and Erica Ayres is 30-years-old and a member of are parents of three children. Mt. Hebron Baptist Church. www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader /21 Vegetable Producers Meet Personalized Pie! Melissa Johnathon can cook up some in January tasty pies with a personal touch! The talented back-up singer and wife of Michael Johnathon is also a good cook. Go to her website at he annual Fruit and Vegetable MommaLissaPies.com and you’ll see how she Growers Conference took place can make pies that are more than just tasty – they in Lexington during January have a special appearance. T4-5, with producers and experts in production present during the two-day gathering. She and Michael live near Paris with their new twins, so it is easy for Melissa to bake your special pie and get it to you fresh if you live in Reports from the University the Paris-Lexington vicinity. If you live several miles away from the area, of Kentucky show that nearly 400 email Melissa to get more delivery information. Her email is Melissa@ producers and production experts MommaLissaPies.com. attended the conference this year. Central Kentucky Ag Credit was among Melissa’s website reveals that three standard crust designs include sponsors of the conference, and the Rose Petal, Music Notes and Maple/Oak Leaves. If you want a special Association also was present with the design, send her an email and inquire. MommaLissaPies are also Ag Credit exhibit and loan officers who available in five, mouth-watering flavors, including Blackberry; Sweet greeted visitors and fielded financial questions from participants. ‘Tater; Strawberry; Apple; and Twin Peaks Cherry.

As Kentucky has emerged into a You can also contact Melissa by regular mail at P.O. Box 200, more diverse agricultural economy, Lexington, KY 40588. fruit and vegetable production across the state have taken on more For all you “do it yourself cooks” Melissa has shared one of her prominence. The Fruit and Vegetable recipes. Just get the blackberries and fire up the oven! Conference encompasses two days of intense seminars, meetings and input MommaLissa’s Blackberry Pie from industry experts and educators. Highlights included sessions on farmers’ Pie Crust (2 Shells) Blackberry Filling markets; commercial fruit and vegetable 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 4 cups blackberries production; greenhouse production; 2 sticks butter (1 cup) ½ cup white sugar high tunnel production; small fruit 1 teaspoon salt ½ cup all-purpose flour and organic production; and grape and 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon butter (cut wine production processes. 6-8 tablespoons ice water into cubes & put on top before placing top pie With the industry showing growth, crust) conference seminars also included other business-related subjects, such as wholesale marketing; food safety; a Instructions non-insured crop disaster seminar; and Preheat oven to 425°. appearances by experts from New York, Brush top of crust with milk Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, if desired and sprinkle with and Texas. sugar Cut vent holes The event took place at the Bake for 15 minutes Embassy Suites Hotel, and was Reduce oven heat to 375° sponsored by the Kentucky Department Bake 20-25 minutes of Agriculture, the University of Let it cool and enjoy! Kentucky, and Kentucky State University.

22 / First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader www.AgCreditOnline.com Owensboro Cattle Convention Draws 1,300 Producers

attle producers from across the Commonwealth gathered in Owensboro during January at the Kentucky Cattlemen’s AssociationC Annual Convention. The event ranks as the largest gathering of Kentucky cattle producers during the year and activities include election of officers, a trade show, seminars, banquet and more.

This photo shows new officers who have been elected to serve the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association during 2016. They are (seated, left to right) Ken Adams, Secretary/Treasurer; Bobby Foree, Vice President; Chuck Crutcher, President- Elect; and David Lemaster, President. Standing (left to right) are Tim White, KCA Program Chair; Cary King, KBN Chairman; Steve Dunning, KBC Program Chair; and Gary Woodall, Past President.

Ag Credit was among over 100 exhibitors who participated in the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Trade Show in Owensboro during January. This photo shows part of the exhibit hall during a break in convention activity. Central Kentucky Ag Credit provides farm, home and cattle loans to hundreds of producers throughout the Bluegrass Region, and Association loan officers were on hand to assist livestock producers who visited the KCA Trade Show. Five Named to KCA Hall of Fame The Kentucky Cattlemen’s Annual Convention Banquet was highlighted by announcement of five individuals who were inducted into the KCA Hall of Fame. They are: Region I Raymond Oliver Trigg County

Region II Jerry Greer Barren County

Region III Jim Naive Spencer County

Region IV Curtis Absher Fayette County

Region V Paul Napier Lincoln County www.AgCreditOnline.com First Quarter 2016, Ag Credit Leader / 23 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE Central Kentucky PAID Agricultural Credit Association COLUMBIA SC P.O. Box 1290 PERMIT 1160 Lexington, KY 40588-1290

The Right Lender

g Credit has provided loans to central Kentuckians A for 82 years. As part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, Central Kentucky Ag Credit excels in expert, competitive financial service. That results in more personal benefit to member-borrowers.

There’s a full-service Ag Credit office near you. We hope you’ll give us a call.

You’ll like the way we do business

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Danville Lebanon Lexington Paris Richmond Stanford 1-800-589-4261 1-800-264-0402 1-888-820-3270 1-800-613-4292 1-888-820-3221 1-800-467-0039