LEADER
December 2021
Volume 26 | Issue 4
Sharing the
WEALTH of Knowledge
Farmers improving agriculture by educating others through the creative sharing of information and experiences
Plus: 2022 Calendar Photo Contest Winners!
In this issue Member Spotlight
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Convenience is Key When it Comes to Educating Farmers Penn State Senior Extension Educator Del Voight finds creative ways to continue educating the ag community duing and after the pandemic.
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Shaping Young Ag Minds as a Duo Fueled by a passion for agricultural education, Ed and Tonjia Mayne of Union Bridge, Maryland, purchased a goat farm and use it to teach the next generation of agriculture.
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Looking Ahead While Planting Roots A sixth-generation farmer in Millsboro, Delaware, Brandon McCabe uses several lifetimes of farming knowledge to teach agricultural structures and engineering at a local high school.
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Dreams Become Reality with Dedication A new high school opening that coincided with his college graduation put Tyler Butts of Hedgesville, West Virginia, in his dream position of returning home to teach agricultural youth.
Events and Reminders 4 December 2021 - March 2022 Our Association
Social Media facebook.com/MidAtlanticFarmCredit
22 2022 Calendar Photo Contest Winners
@midatfarmcredit
26 2021 Virtual Showcase Winners
@midatfarmcredit
28 2021 Community Education Program Recipients
mafc.com/blog
29 2022 Scholarship Program
youtube.com/user/MidAtlanticFC
Community 30 Property Listings
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mafc.com/podcast
President’s message
Inspiring Others THROUGH
EDUCATION Growing up, we’re surrounded by people who try to impart their wisdom upon us — parents, grandparents, neighbors, teachers, and even our friends. If we’re lucky, we find a person or two who takes on the role of mentor, leaving an even more profound mark on who we become. The role these mentors play in our lives doesn’t always stop when we get older — I can tell you that from experience. There is always something to learn, some new challenge to overcome, and somehow, mentors know just what to say to boost our confidence to get the job done. The four customers we feature in this issue of the Leader have dedicated their lives to helping people realize their potential, whether they are a high school student deciding on a career path or a seasoned farmer looking to improve their business practices. Del Voight of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania is the perfect example of mentorship at work. He works year-round as a senior extension educator with Penn State, helping farmers in his community learn about crop management. On top of the many events they put on, Del runs a blog and Facebook page, providing additional education to his followers. Ed and Tonija Mayne spent 34 years educating and advising agriculture students in Frederick County, Maryland. Though they may be retired now, both continue to keep in touch with former students and they raise and show
goats — a hobby that stuck with them even after their own kids were out of 4-H and FFA. Leaving a baseball career behind, Brandon McCabe returned home to Millsboro, Delaware where he found a passion for teaching students various skills to help them become successful adults. Today, Brandon teaches at the same high school he attended, and was named District Teacher of the Year in 2020. And lastly, we feature Tyler Butts, an agricultural education teacher from Hedgesville, West Virginia. His main goal is teaching his students the importance of helping others and cultivating a strong work ethic. Tyler chartered the Spring Mills FFA Chapter in 2013, and has since helped 33 students earn their West Virginia FFA degree. In keeping with the education theme, this issue recognizes the winners of our 2021 Virtual Showcase Contest (see pages 26-27). These talented kids have learned so much from their fair projects, and we’re proud to award them for their efforts. And, for the high school seniors or those currently enrolled in a two- or four-year education program with plans to start a career in ag, don’t forget to apply for the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement’s Scholarship Program — you could receive $10,000 to put toward your education! Check out page 29 for more details. Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday season,
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EVENTS and REMINDERS Please visit mafc.com/blog/upcoming-farmer-resources-events to stay updated on all virtual and in-person events.
December 2021 21 First Day of Winter 24-27 Christmas Observed – Offices Closed
January 2022 3 New Year’s Day Observed – Offices Closed 7 Foundation’s Student Scholarship Application Deadline 17 Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Offices Closed
February 2022 15 Crop Insurance Green Peas Sales Closing 21 President’s Day – Offices Closed
March 2022 13 Daylight Savings Time Begins 15 Crop Insurance Corn, Soybeans, & Spring Crops Sales Closing 20 First Day of Spring
questions or ideas
Leader
If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Katie Ward at 888.339.3334, email her at kward@mafc.com or write her at MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you!
MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA Thomas H. Truitt, Jr., CEO
MidAtlantic Farm Credit Board of Directors Brian L. Boyd, Chairman T. Jeffery Jennings, Vice Chairman Paul D. Baumgardner Julie Bolyard John Travis Hastings Laura M. Heilinger
Anthony M. Ill Fred R. Moore, Jr. Michael S. Nelson Jennifer L. Rhodes Douglas D. Scott Alan N. Siegfried
David R. Smith Fred N. West Charles M. Wright IV
We hope you enjoy this digital-only issue. To receive the Leader in your inbox, send an email to Katie Ward at kward@mafc.com.
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The Leader is published quarterly for stockholders, friends and business associates. If you wish to no longer receive this publication, please email: unsubscribe@mafc.com. Use “Unsubscribe Leader” in the subject. The Farm Credit Administration does not require the association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to shareholders. However, copies of its complete report are available upon request or see quarterly updates online at mafc.com. The shareholders’ investment in the association is materially affected by the financial condition and results of operations of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank and copies of its quarterly financial report are available upon request by writing: Susanne Caughman | AgFirst Farm Credit Bank | P.O. Box 1499 | Columbia, SC 29202-1499 Address changes, questions or requests for the association’s quarterly financial report should be directed to MidAtlantic Farm Credit, ACA by calling 888.339.3334 or writing: MidAtlantic Farm Credit | 45 Aileron Court | Westminster, MD 21157
ASSISTANCE WHEN IT MATTERS MOST We know the holidays can be a stressful time for many. With our Member Assistance Program, you (and anyone in your household) can utilize the following benefits for FREE: • Counseling: marital, parenting, aging, work life • Legal & Financial Services • Identity Theft Recovery • And more All of these services can be used on-demand and are 100% anonymous. Visit mafc.com/map for more information, or call the 24/7 hotline at 800.633.3353.
member Spotlight
Convenience IS KEY
WHEN IT COMES TO EDUCATING FARMERS
Story by Michelle Kunjappu, photos by Del Voight and Michelle Kunjappu
‘Create a drive-in movie theater setup for educating farmers’ was probably not in Del Voight’s job description, but nonetheless, that’s exactly the venue that Del, a Penn State Senior Extension Educator, decided on when he wanted to get information out during COVID-19 restrictions. “I think that’s the challenge in education,” says Del, “knowing your audience and meeting their needs.” 6 LEADER
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D
el knew that area farmers needed to get seminar credits so they could apply pesticides if they needed it, “so we started drive-in theater style pesticide meetings,” he said. Farmers would park their trucks, find the specific radio station that was tuned to a transmitter hooked into Del’s computer, and hear the presentation that Del was broadcasting onto a large screen. “We gave them a green sheet so they could write their pesticide number, and they pulled out the other side — no one got out of the vehicle,” he explains.
“And the people who left their lights on the whole time, we just gave them a jump,” laughs Del, and everyone was on their way, pesticide credits in-hand. The meeting included two videos and a presentation from an area farmer who spoke to participants via Zoom from his home and “it worked out perfectly,” says Del. “I saw a lot of the farmers writing down information so I know they learned something.” The drive-in workshops were a hit. “The first session filled up so I had to do another one, and then after that, a couple of other Extension agents did it and then
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"I think I get a little fixated on saving farmers money. I try to economize on everything to make the crop profitable without sacrificing yield." industry took off with it,” he says, as they worked to get pesticide information and credits to the farmers. Getting information to farmers is the main driver to Del’s efforts. A Facebook page (PA Crop and Ag Updates) where he posts crop-related information is “just another venue for delivery,” according to Del. A blog, which he posts through Penn State, labeled Lebanon Crop Management, is an additional place
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where producers can go to learn and get their crop questions answered. In fact, it’s helping people that is the rewarding part of his job, believes Del. “I think I get a little fixated on saving farmers money. I try to economize on everything to make the crop profitable without sacrificing yield. You want to keep the yield moving up the ladder, but have to do it in a way that is not costing more than the return,” he adds. Because he is passionate about getting information out and helping farmers, he organizes educational meetings, travels to speak at croprelated sessions, and visits farmers’ fields, reaching somewhere between 8,000-15,000 farmers each year. Farm Credit has been a key player in his educational outreaches, as year-round, the association sponsors a variety of his events. Del has also used Farm Credit facilities for training, conducting workshops in their buildings. His own relationship with Farm Credit began sixteen years ago when he and his wife Lori, a fourth grade teacher, wanted to build a barn for their herd of seedstock Angus cattle. Besides that business relationship, he has joined efforts with Farm Credit representatives such as loan
officer Sarah Worobey, as they serve on committees like the Lebanon County Farm-City Committee and work together to promote agriculture, organizing farm city tours for elementary children. “I can tell Del is passionate about agriculture, as well as teaching farmers new agronomic skills, purely through his dedication to his work,” says Sarah. “He comes from a family farming background and continues to dedicate all his time to farmers through their PSU Extension needs, committee outreach and involvement, as well as through his children who are also big ‘agvocates’ for agriculture.” As an Extension educator, Del’s outreach efforts start in December, when he begins traveling to give production workshops, discussing row width population, variety selection, and pest and harvest management with participants. Following the corn, soybean, and small grain workshops in December, Del helps organize and speak at 50-60 pesticide education meetings, where he tries to infuse current research findings into his talk and show the results of variety trials. In the spring, he begins tackling planting problems, “starting out with alfalfa breaking dormancy, then top dressing wheat and wheat problems, then weevils get
going and pesticide management kicks in. Then it’s corn and soybean planting problems, going to midseason pests, rolling into midsummer, depending on the weather — that dictates what my life is like,” says Del. Summer is the time for one-on-one diagnostic instruction and also work at research plots at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SEARC), where he oversees research plots for soybeans and validation plots on nearby farms. Fall brings harvest time and a fresh round of certifications for state and national contests, besides running the soybean contest for Pennsylvania, coordinating the farm crops competition at the Lebanon Fair, and judging farm crops at other local fairs. He’ll also spend time on farms, helping farmers decide why stalk rot or disease, for example, may have impacted yields. He enjoys passing on research findings to farmers. “That’s why I love my job. I can be unbiased with my recommendations,” he says. Follow the PA Crop and Ag Updates page on Facebook: @38cmeg. Go to sites.psu.edu/38cmeg/ to read the Lebanon Crop Management blog. VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 4
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member Spotlight
Shaping young ag minds AS A DUO
Story and photos by Andrea Haines
Only some of us are lucky enough to find that special person in life who shares our particular interests. It’s often a treasured hobby or mutual affiliation that brings people together, but for Ed and Tonjia Mayne of Union Bridge, Maryland, the future of agriculture encapsules their existence.
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ow retired, Ed and Tonjia have advised young minds for 34 years as agriculture educators at various high schools in the Frederick County, Maryland area. Ed grew up on a small grain and turf farm in a neighboring county, where he also raised 4-H and FFA breeding and market pigs. Having a strong passion for agriculture, Ed enjoyed competing at the county and state levels each summer, which led him to continue his interests into his career, teaching at Boonsboro High School from 1976 to 1980, and then Frederick High School in 1983 to 2017. Tonjia remembers her days as an agriculture student and FFA member as being enjoyable. “I was inspired by my teachers and advisors and their dedication to agriculture education,” she shares. Her teaching career began at Catoctin High School from 1985 to 1992, following with Linganore High School in 1994 to 1996, finishing at Urbana High School from 1999-2020. Ed and Tonjia even owe their marriage to agriculture education. Ed explains, “We met at a drive thru window at a McDonald’s near the [Chesapeake] Bay Bridge. We were both headed to the summer agricultural teachers’ conferences being held at Salisbury University.” They’ve been happily married for years and have a farm, kids (two and four-legged), and a pet boarding kennel to show for their coincidental encounter. The Mayne family breeds, shows, and sells Boer (meat) goats. “We purchased our property in 2016,” shares Ed. “We were introduced to the past owner,
Linda Ramond, by her son and daughter-in-law where we attend church. Their son was housing his 4-H market goat project at our barn at our original property. We leased some barn space from the prior owner to house our yearlings in 2015. One beautiful afternoon we were caring for our does and Linda stopped by the barn. We shared with her how beautiful we thought her property was and how we would like to know if she ever wanted to sell. She shared that she had been interested in selling and that she wouldn’t put it on the market so that we could purchase the property outright. It was definitely a ‘God moment’ for us to get this property.” The Maynes were always hopeful that someday they would own a farm to raise their family and goats. This property had that and more, including Sunchaser Farm Kennels, instated in 1987. “The owner was hopeful the new owners would continue boarding and grooming dogs,” shares Tonjia. “We immediately knew this would be a natural fit — our experience with owning a pet-sitting business, raising livestock, plus teaching pre-vet animal care had prepared us well.” Upon this news of purchasing the farm, Ed and Tonjia started to plan a finance strategy. “Our initial loan was to purchase the land and our home,” explains Ed. “We worked with our loan officer, Kelsey Maslen, when it became necessary to replace the existing barn and make renovations to the property with new fencing, replacing roofs, and upgrading heating systems in our kennel.” Tonjia elaborates, “Farm Credit has been amazing. We also worked with them when VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 4
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member Spotlight
"Students were always my motivation for teaching. To teach and to be a positive role model was my goal." COVID-19 hit, which affected our kennel business. They walked us through the process of applying for PPP loans and forgiveness applications.” “Having the space to expand their goat operation was a big driver for purchasing the property. Our first big project was providing funds for their barn,” explains Kelsey. “Since they purchased the farm, both have retired from serving as ag teachers, but it does not mean they have stepped back from helping the community. I would say, working with the Maynes feels like a partnership, and I’m glad to serve as a resource for them.” The Maynes credit working with Farm Credit as being “so easy” and “always available” to answer questions and help with all financial needs. “We chose to go with Farm Credit because they understood our needs and the uniqueness of the property we were purchasing, and knowing the financial needs involved with operating a farming business. Since they are a cooperative, we are able to benefit from profit sharing,” mentions Ed. He adds, “It is such a good feeling to walk into the Farm Credit office or other ag cooperatives and see some of your students working in high skill-level positions, too.” Ed refers to teaching ag like being a missionary in another country, “You can only share your passion and knowledge and hope that the seed 12 LEADER
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you planted in their minds comes full harvest.” Kelsey reflects, “I knew them as ag teachers from my time in FFA both as a high school student and as a state FFA officer. They have helped so many students, and I’m glad I could be able to bring it full circle and help them in return.” Ed enjoyed preparing students for competitions and seeing how it would improve communication skills and team building. “Three of my favorite contests
were milk evaluation (dairy foods), floriculture, and public speaking contests,” he shares. “Tonjia and I would team coach. She would help train my students in land evaluation and I would help train her dairy foods team.” Tonjia shares, “Students were always my motivation for teaching. To teach and to be a positive role model was my goal. If you are a good person with good morals, and a loving heart, those around you will be drawn to that and develop their own positive character traits.” She notes, “Agriculture is the backbone of life, as everything stems from it. To see students get excited and to find their place in this great industry is why I devoted 34 years to teaching.” For her, pre-vet (animal science) classes were a great opportunity to provide students with hands-on experience in and out of the classroom, resulting in a more solid direction for career-based decisions. “Land evaluation was also a favorite topic/contest to help students learn to appreciate the importance of soil, not only for food production, but for structure for roads and construction of homesites,” she explains. “I have so many students that I still see and are involved in the agriculture industry.” Not only did Ed and Tonjia teach agriculture education to students, but also implemented a passion for the industry into their own children, too. “When our children were old enough to join 4-H, they started their livestock projects by raising market hogs,” explains Ed. “Our youngest daughter, Katie, fell in love with three Boer goat kids she saw at the fair, and with mom’s encouragement, decided she wanted
to raise goats along with her market hogs.” Soon, all three of their children became involved in raising market goats, and Katie added two breeding does to the herd. “We have continued growing our herd after the kids were out of 4-H and FFA,” adds Tonjia. “Currently, we have 50 head of registered South African Boer goats and a herd of 25 recipients that we use in our embryo transfer program. Our focus is to raise structurally correct, productive animals that can be used in breeding programs to help improve the breed. In 2018, we began using embryo transfer which has helped to improve our herd genetics.” The family shows their animals in regional American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) shows in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, and West Virginia, as well as local and state fairs. “The Maynes are always busy,” shares Kelsey. “They stay connected with their past ag students, and help those currently involved. They love to share their goat knowledge with others and are constantly inviting others out to the farm to facilitate hands-on learning.” It is clear that no matter what direction the Maynes choose to pursue, agriculture will most likely be forefront and they will always strive to ‘hold true to the best traditions… and to be an influence in their home and community’,” just as E.M. Tiffany (FFA Creed author) would adore.
Follow Sunchaser Kennels on Facebook: @SunchaserKennels VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 4
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member Spotlight
LOOKING AHEAD WHILE
Planting Roots Story and Photos by Maria N. Listman
As you drive into Millsboro, Delaware, the seasonal shift is on full display. Cornfields have been cleared, while soybeans are ready for harvest. Chicken houses dot the corners of a country road. Agriculture runs deep in this area. And one local resident is looking ahead, while planting roots. 14 LEADER
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randon McCabe is a sixth-generation farmer in Millsboro. He lives with his family on the homestead that was built in the 1920s. It’s surrounded by crops, out buildings and the barn that he and his wife, Jacki, got married in. Stringed lights still hang inside from their wedding, offering a welcoming glow. During the 1970s, Brandon’s parents started
buying land around the family home, and they’ve been expanding the farm ever since. His parents and brother live right down the road, making it their mission to continue farming while creating a legacy for the next generation. “You always want to look for opportunities. What do we need to do to make sure there’s something for them, should they choose to continue the family tradition,” explains Brandon. The entire
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"It’s really just getting the kids to see what different trades are available; gaining a little skill for each one, so at the very least, they can do some of their own work growing up.” family works as a team to care for the land, producing poultry, corn and soybeans. Four of the chicken houses are managed by Brandon, which he rents from his parents. His father built two of them in the 1970s. They stand strong alongside the other two that were eventually needed. Brandon tends to 72,000 chickens at a time, nurturing the flock for an eight-week period. “The amount of technology that we work with on a daily basis is at least as much as the average American, if not more,” says Brandon. In addition to maintaining the flock, Brandon is the agricultural structures and engineering teacher at Sussex Central High School. With years of experience on his own family farm, it was a natural transition for him to become an agriculture science teacher. However, it wasn’t always his plan. After college, he went on to play for a minor league baseball team, until the team folded. As a result, he headed back home to the farm, and made a deal with his parents that he would oversee the chicken houses full-time. Not wanting to give up on his favorite sport, he began teaching youth travel ball. “And that’s where I really started to enjoy helping 16 LEADER
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them achieve a goal,” he says. Brandon started teaching at the same high school he attended, and has been a part of their staff for twelve years. His class is a multi-year commitment. Students learn safety, power tools, job interview skills, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, masonry, and more. He explains, “It’s really just getting the kids to see what different trades are available; gaining a little skill for each one, so at the very least, they can do some of their own work growing up.” In addition to his classroom curriculum, Brandon is an advisor for his school’s FFA program. His dedication to teaching agriculture has not gone unnoticed. Brandon was named District Teacher of the Year for the Indian River School District in 2020. Farm Credit has been involved in several milestones for Brandon and his family. He started with an operating loan at the age of 24, then utilized a home improvement loan to fix up the family homestead. He also built a new pole barn after the previous barn was damaged in a blizzard. But, the most precious milestone of them all, was when Brandon and his wife were ready to start their family. “Me and my wife were trying to get pregnant and couldn’t. We had to go
through IVF and it’s expensive,” he says. “As a farmer, I was eligible for a personal loan through Farm Credit, and it took a lot of stress off of the bills for the farm. I could tell Jacki that everything’s going to be okay.” They have two children now, who are the seventh generation to live on the family farm. “Brandon and his family are wonderful to work with, and great customers of Farm Credit,” shares Amy
Rowe, Farm Credit loan officer. “Brandon does so much for the community and ag education, and we are happy to support him and his efforts.” As Brandon takes root in his community, his eyes are on the future. He wants the same for his students. “I want my students to have a game plan when they leave high school; to get that ball rolling, where ever they end up.”
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member Spotlight
DREAMS BECOME
reality
WITH DEDICATION Photos and story by Andrea Haines
The ability to teach is a gift not all of us possess, but for some people it’s a dream. That dream became reality when Tyler Butts of Hedgesville, West Virginia began his teaching career nine years ago at Spring Mills High School in Martinsburg, West Virginia, highlighting agricultural education.
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hile in high school, Tyler noticed there was going to be a future teaching position opening. “I actually knew that Spring Mills High School would be opening the same year I would be graduating from college and that it was a dream position to come back home and have a positive impact on the agricultural youth in my hometown,” he shares. “Spring Mills was the only job I had applied for, and I was blessed enough to earn the position. Sometimes it’s crazy how things work out.” Tyler graduated from West Virginia University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and Extension Education. “While teaching, I also
continued my own education at Frostburg State University and graduated with my Masters of Education in 2019, which the scholarship from the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement certainly helped with,” he says. Tyler was the recipient of the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement’s Ag Educator Scholarship in 2018. Ethics and forming strong people skills stands at the front of Tyler’s teaching method. “A paramount aspect that I try to instill in my students is being good people,” he explains. “I understand that I may not be the best educator in the classroom, but I stress that you don’t have to be the most gifted of students to
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be successful in life.” Tyler notes that, “Finding your passion, a strong work ethic, helping others, and being a good person will take you further in life than a book ever will.” His connections to the agricultural industry have proven his theory. “Those relationships have served me far better than any education an institution has provided me,” he adds. “That’s the beauty of agriculture and FFA - there is so much that can be learned outside of a book.” Since chartering the Spring Mills FFA Chapter in 2013, Tyler has helped 33 members earn their West Virginia State FFA Degree, nine earn American FFA Degrees, has had numerous regional and state winners in a variety of contests, many of those representing their chapter and West Virginia at the national level. Tyler states, “While all of
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that is important and it makes me proud seeing them accomplish these feats, it is more important to me that they become/remain good people; that’s what I hope they take from the program.” This mindset was instilled into Tyler from a young age. “I got involved in 4-H and my brothers later followed suit,” he explains. “I quickly learned that my passion was agriculture – any facet of it. I later became involved in FFA and that’s when it all really started.” Tyler didn’t have a place to house livestock early on, so he says, “If it weren’t for some people within the community and good friends providing resources to raise livestock, I’m not sure if my passion would have continued to grow. Toward the end of my high school years, our family had finally purchased some land in which we could farm.” Currently, they live on a 100 acre farm and rent a few others for cattle raising and hay production. Since the purchase of the farm, they have made many improvements. “We erected two new buildings, the old barn was completely overhauled inside and out, all old fencing was removed, and high-tensile fencing installed, accompanied with divisional fence for pasture rotation and exclusion for areas such as ponds and waterways,” he explains. A nutrient management plan (NMP) is utilized, their soil pH was below five and is now above seven in all fields, all new water lines were installed to four new geothermal waterers, and they are now surrounded with heavy-use area specs to help control runoff and erosion. “Our best management practices (BMPs) allow for prescribed grazing on the entire farm,” shares Tyler. “Additionally, all buildings are newly equipped
"I understand that I may not be the best educator in the classroom, but I stress that you don’t have to be the most gifted of students to be successful in life." with proper runoff management systems.” For these efforts, Tyler’s family was recently recognized as runner-up for the West Virginia Conservation Agency State Farm of the Year. Tyler holds a special place in his heart for old homes and antiques, especially those related to agriculture. “I remodeled the original farmhouse on the property that dates back to the mid-1800s,” he shares. “It is refreshing to look at old records or tools and appreciate their importance in the advancement that remains crucial in our industry.” These types of advancements take time and funding, so Tyler’s relationship with Farm Credit has been a learning curve. “Working with Farm Credit has been great! I took out my first loan on a piece of property when I was in my early 20s,” shares Tyler. “For being so young and unfamiliar with the process, I couldn’t have asked for a better group or loan officer to work with. Everything was explained thoroughly and no question was left unanswered.” Farm Credit loan officer Jeanie Hamilton notes, “Tyler’s passion for agriculture radiates through his career by teaching today’s students how to be future leaders in agriculture. He can be found at numerous ag events helping youth.” Tyler explains, “Jeanie has handled more of my own loans and will most certainly handle my loans in the future. Working with Farm Credit gives the sense
of a family atmosphere that makes the whole process friendly and comfortable. People I look up to and trust have always dealt with Farm Credit, so it just makes sense – they were my first call.” Tyler and his family continue to expand their beef genetics program. “We recently bought some donor cows to begin flushing on our premises rather than others,” explains Tyler. “A new and updated handling facility is the next major item on the improvements list. However, working with Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) and Eastern Panhandle Conservation District, a large portion of planned improvements have been able to be already completed, and we are very grateful.” As a farmer and agriculture educator, Tyler is surely making a positive impact on the future of agriculture. “I think if the agricultural community can stay true to things similar to what I mentioned above, the future of agriculture is as bright as it is has been for generations,” he explains. “The core values of the agricultural community is what makes it so special to everyone involved.”
Follow the Spring Mills FFA Chapter on Facebook: @SpringMillsFFA
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Our Association
COVER PHOTO by Kasey Kreit of Taneytown, MD
2022CALENDAR Winners Photo Contest
Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo for our 2022 calendar contest. We are excited to reveal the winning images for the cover and each month, along with the photographers behind the lens! If your photo(s) didn’t make the calendar this year, it may be used in a Farm Credit advertisement, on our social media pages, or even in a future issue of the Leader magazine or other publications. Visit mafc.com/info/calendar-photo-contest to submit up to five photos for our 2023 calendar. 22 LEADER
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JANUARY Linda Wilson of York, PA FEBRUARY Brandon Kimbles of Centreville, MD
MARCH Janine LaValley of Pocomoke, MD APRIL Kasey Kreit of Taneytown, MD
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Our Association
MAY Deb Hefflefinger of Mount Joy, PA JUNE Nicole Stambaugh of Westminster, MD
JULY Leo Polk of Woodstock, VA AUGUST Denise Ziegler of New Windsor, MD
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SEPTEMBER Andrea Haines of Union Bridge, MD OCTOBER Andrea Haines of Union Bridge, MD
NOVEMBER Addie Mister of Mardela Springs, MD DECEMBER Zelda Rowley of Lancaster, PA
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Our Association Feature
We know how important your fair experience is and the effort you put in behind the scenes. MidAtlantic Farm Credit held another virtual contest to showcase your 4-H and FFA animal projects! This year’s entrants could either write an essay or submit a video to answer the following questions: What is one new skill you learned this summer with your fair project? How can this experience positively influence your future? We received inspirational entries from students all across our territory and thank everyone who participated! To read the winning essays and watch the winning videos, visit mafc.com/showcase.
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MEET THE WINNERS
Essay Award Winners
Champion– Elizabeth Green, New Windsor, MD
Senior Division
Reserve Champion– Emily Vincent, Boyce, VA
Junior Division
Andrew Knatz, Hampstead, MD Hannah Fisher, Lebanon Church, VA Heather Goldman, Hampstead, MD Kaitlyn Bradley, Vienna, MD Cheyenne Estep, Mount Jackson, VA
Elizabeth Green, New Windsor, MD Emily Vincent, Boyce, VA Brileigh Francis, Centreville, MD Brileigh Francis, Centreville, MD Olivia Fisher, Lebanon Church, VA
Video Award Winners
Champion– Cohen Miller, Marietta, PA
Reserve Champion– Emily Fritz, Westminster, MD
Junior Division Cohen Miller, Marietta, PA Emily Fritz, Westminster, MD
Payton Dill, Sudlersville, MD Billy Comegys, Queenstown, MD
Yardley Lockridge, Winchester, VA VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 4
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Community Education Program RECIPIENTS The Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement awarded 11 local nonprofit organizations funding through their 2021 Community Education Program.
Four organizations received funding from Phase 1 of the 2021 Community Education Program in July: Berkeley County Youth Fair: $2,000 Center for Dairy Excellence Foundation : $10,000
GoggleWorks – SOIL in the City Program: $10,000 Pennsylvania Friends of Agriculture Foundation: $10,000
Seven organizations received funding from Phase 2 of the 2021 Community Education Program in November: 2022 Eastern Regional Junior Angus Show: $3,000 Chesapeake College Foundation: $10,000 Delaware Center for Inland Bays: $3,000 Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation: $10,000
Linganore FFA Chapter: $2,000 Virginia 4-H Horse Program: $2,500 Virginia Ag in the Classroom: $5,000
Non-profit organizations that support agriculture education within MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s territory and Washington D.C. are encouraged to apply for funding in one of two different options - up to $2,000 and up to $10,000, depending on the size and scope of the request. The Foundation’s Board of Directors review the applications and chose those selected to receive funding based on their alignment with the values and mission of the Foundation. To learn more about the Foundation and the Community Education program, visit fcfoundationforag.org or email info@fcfoundationforag.org. Be sure to follow us on social media with the hashtag #OtherSideOfAg. 28 LEADER
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SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement will be awarding at least $100,000 in scholarships to students in 2022 who are planning to attend or are currently enrolled at a college, university, or technical school, pursuing a career in agriculture. Each scholarship is worth $10,000 and will be awarded to students planning for careers both on the farm in what we like to call the #OtherSideOfAg, like teaching ag education, becoming a nutritionist, a veterinarian, or even a Farm Credit loan officer. Applications will be accepted online only until January 7, 2022. Please visit FCFoundationForAg.org for eligibility requirements and to apply.
Hear what past scholarship recipients have to say: "It was a really great and eye-opening experience of the generosity of Farm Credit and also how many opportunities there are in the world if you just apply yourself!"
"Think about what your interests are because there are so many different ways your interests fit into the agriculture industry!"
Henry Brunnett
Lynne Thomas
Westminster, MD 2019 Scholarship Winner
Fallston, MD 2021 Scholarship Winner
VOLUME 26 | ISSUE 4
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Properties FOr Sale Ellendale, Delaware
Greenwood, Delaware
Preston, Maryland
Stunning cleared land with a well-kept farmhouse, including an updated HVAC unit, hardwood floors, and a large family room with a wood fireplace. Contract will transfer. Two houses are approx. 21,000 square feet with 19,000 capacity each. Two houses are approximately 12,000 square feet with 10,900 capacity each. Up to date and very well managed. Multiple outbuildings. $845,000.
Beautiful farm with half tillable and half woodlands. Ponds and trails throughout make this a great riding (horse or ATV) farm. There is a gorgeous high ground setting overlooking the pond that would be perfect for a home site. Mature trees have value; development rights have not been sold. $824,500.
This estate sale features an 8.6 acre diamond in the rough with lots of possibilities just across the Dover Bridge, minutes to Easton! The 1,900 square foot, one level home features three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and open concept with cathedral ceilings in the great room. The pond gives way to a private waterfowl hunting spot. $350,000.
Contact Wes Cromer, Masten Realty LLC, 302.448.1032, wcromer@mastenrealty.com.
Contact Jamie Masten, Masten Realty LLC, 302.422.1850, wcromer@mastenrealty.com.
Contact Traci Jordan, Meredith Fine Properties, 410.310.8606, TLJordan520@gmail.com.
Taneytown, Maryland
Bangor, Pennsylvania
Melfa, Virginia
Stone home known as “The Old Stone Hotel”, circa 1763, with subsequent additions. Now with an updated kitchen, bathroom, and dual zone HVAC, this house is over 3,000 square feet of history and charm. It boasts four large stone fireplaces (one with new liner), and spacious, sunny rooms. $389,000.
Perfect for someone with their own horses who wants to save money on board and live in the cute studio apartment (30’ x 36’) above the barn. Level and open acreage with a small amount of woods. Apartment needs completion. Cash or a commercial loan financing only. $285,000.
Imagine the possibilities of owning 21 acres! This parcel will give you privacy along with access to great amenities. Perfect for a family compound. Soils appropriate for an alternative septic system. Zoned agricultural, near a creek, timbered 12 years ago. Now abundant with trees and plants. $59,000.
Contact Leslie Minchew, Hagan Realty, 410.707.7703, lminchew@haganrealty.com.
Contact Cindy Stys, Equestrian & Country Properties, 610.849.1790, cindy@cshorseproperties.com.
Contact Helen Glenn, Weichert Realtors-Mason-Davis, 757.710.3129, RealtorHelenGlenn@gmail.com.
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT We know that farming is a risky business. Crop insurance mitigates that risk and protects you from major loss. Give us a call today to discuss your crop insurance options.
888.339.3334 | farmcreditcropinsurance.com
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Happy s y a d i l o H
From all of us at Farm Credit, we wish you and your family a joyous holiday season.