AG CREDIT FEATURES
Digital Banking Online
Our online/mobile banking tool allows you to view statements, make payments and transfer funds.
AgriLine
Write your own loan advance when you need it.
AutoDraft
Automatically deduct your loan payment from your checking or savings account.
Customer Referral Program
Recommend someone to Ag Credit and, if they receive a qualifying loan, you’ll receive a gift!*
OUR LOCATIONS
DocuSign
Electronically sign documents.
FastCash
Electronically transfer funds from your line of credit into your personal or business checking account.
Online Banking Portal
Secure communication and document transfer.
Social Media
Ag Credit is on Facebook , Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn . Follow and Like Central Kentucky Ag Credit to keep up with the Association.
LEADER
is published quarterly for stockholders, directors, business associates and friends of Central Kentucky Ag Credit.
PRESIDENT AND CEO
Jonathan Noe
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Alvin Lyons
Jim Rankin, III
Joe Myers, Chairman
Lee Blandford, Vice Chairman
Patrick Higginbotham
Mary-Lynn Hinkel
Dan Grigson
EDITOR
Cassie Johnson, Marketing Coordinator
PUBLISHER
AgFirst Farm Credit Bank
DESIGNERS
Joey Ayer
Gwen Carroll
Jessica Deas
Phereby Derrick
Jonathan Mashack
PRINTER
Professional Printers LLC
COVER PHOTO CREDIT
Shawna Dischler
ADDRESS CHANGE
Address changes, questions, comments and requests to cancel your free subscription to the Ag Credit Leader should be sent to Central Kentucky Agricultural Credit Association by calling 859.253.3249 or mailing to PO Box, 4100 Lexington, KY 40544-4100.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The Farm Credit Administration does not require the association to distribute its quarterly financial reports to stockholders. Copies of the association’s annual and quarterly reports are available upon request free of charge by calling 859.253.3249 or writing to Thomas Whitaker, Chief Financial Officer, Central Kentucky Ag Credit, PO Box, 4100 Lexington, KY 40544-4100, or at AgCreditOnline.com
PRIVACY POLICY
Your online privacy is always a top concern at Ag Credit. For a complete copy of the latest version of the online privacy policy, please visit our website and click on the home page link.
NMLS#604727
Celebrating Success at the Ag Credit Fall Roundup 4 6 8 11 12 12 13 14 15 16
Celebrating Success at the 2024 Kentucky State Fair
Investing in Youth
Country Ham Biscuits at the Stockyards
Felicia Madden Retires from Ag Credit
New Employees
Ag Credit Attends Blue & Gold Gala
Ag Credit Thanks Summer Interns Emily Murphy and Braden Porter
Cultivate Visits Bratcher Ag
Outstanding in Their Field - Olivia Randolph
CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT THE 2024 KENTUCKY STATE FAIR
The 2024 Kentucky State Fair proved once again to be a remarkable celebration of agriculture, showcasing the hard work, passion, and dedication of the farming community. This year, Central Kentucky Ag Credit proudly served as the title sponsor for the Junior Dairy Supreme Drive and a supporter of the Junior Market Supreme Drive.
For young agriculturalists, the fair represents the culmination of a year’s worth of dedication. Countless hours spent in the barn, tending to animals, and perfecting projects come to life in the ring. These efforts are not just about competition but also about fostering skills, responsibility, and a deep commitment to the future of agriculture.
Ag Credit is honored to support Kentucky’s junior exhibitors as they pursue their agricultural dreams. We understand that these experiences build the foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth in the agricultural industry.
Congratulations to all the exhibitors who participated in this year’s state fair. Your hard work and achievements are a testament to the vibrant future of farming in Kentucky. Central Kentucky Ag Credit is proud to stand beside you in your journey, cheering on your successes and supporting your aspirations.
INVESTING IN YOUTH
At Central Kentucky Ag Credit, the future of agriculture isn’t just a concept— it’s a commitment. Recognizing that today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders in farming and agribusiness, Ag Credit proudly supports organizations like 4-H and FFA to help cultivate the next generation of agricultural innovators.
This year, Ag Credit actively participated in 15 county youth livestock sales and ham auctions, providing financial support and encouragement to young farmers showcasing their hard work. These events are more than sales; they’re opportunities to nurture skills, instill values, and build confidence in the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.
What makes this mission even more meaningful is that many Ag Credit employees were once members of 4-H or FFA themselves. They’ve experienced firsthand the positive impact these organizations have on personal and professional growth, which fuels their dedication to giving back.
By investing in youth programs, Central Kentucky Ag Credit is not only helping young people achieve their goals but also ensuring a thriving agricultural community for years to come.
COUNTRY HAM BISCUITS AT THE STOCKYARDS
Late summer and early fall mark a special season across Kentucky as 4-H and FFA members in every county hold their annual Investment in Youth Livestock and Country Ham Sales. These events highlight the dedication and hard work of young agriculturalists, and Ag Credit is proud to support their efforts.
Each year, Ag Credit Loan Officers attend these sales throughout Central Kentucky, often walking away with two or three country hams by the season’s end. For the second year in a row, Ag Credit has found a delicious way to share these hams with the community—turning them into country ham biscuits served at local stockyards.
A big thank you goes out to Blue Grass Stockyards, Washingtvon County Livestock Center, and the Paris Stockyards for welcoming us and allowing us to share breakfast with your patrons. It’s just one more way we aim to celebrate the agriculture community and give back to those who make it all possible.
Here’s to another season of supporting youth, enjoying great food, and strengthening Kentucky’s agricultural roots!
Stanford and Danville Branch at Blue Grass South
Lexington Branch at Blue Grass Stockyards
Lebanon Branch at Washington County Livestock Center
Paris Branch at Blue Grass Stockyard East
Richmond Branch at Blue Grass Stockyards Richmond Paris Branch at Paris Stockyard
Attention Women involved with
Our podcast, Beyond Agriculture, takes you beyond the scope of agriculture and into real life stories, conversations, and events taking place in our community . Find us and listen wherever you consume podcasts!
https://www.agcreditonline.com/news/podcasts
FELICIA MADDEN RETIRES FROM AG CREDIT
Written by Senior Loan Officer SaraVard Von Gruenigen
Felicia Madden, Senior Loan Assistant at the Stanford branch, retired from Central Kentucky Agricultural Credit Association on June 1st, 2024 after 32 years of employment. She was originally hired as an “Office Clerk” on July 13, 1992. The 1992 job posting for her position described that the “ideal candidates will have strong accounting, secretarial and communication skills” and that “a farm or agricultural background is desirable.” Felicia possessed these skills and more.
The “devil is in the details” is Felicia’s motto. She thoroughly reviewed and managed the accounting of the Stanford loan portfolio. As a loan officer that worked with her for 16 years, I had an abundance of confidence in her ability to process loans with accuracy, and to problem solve any issues that arose during the loans’ servicing years. Borrowers took notice of her skills as well, and appreciated her ability to help them through their payment procedures.
Felicia possessed the “farm or agricultural background” needed as referenced in the 1992 job posting. Her heart belongs to her family and her family’s multi-generational farm. Today, she resides on the farm with her husband & best friend, William Madden. She
grew up there as the proud daughter of Amos and Janice Sharp. She has fond childhood memories of being her parents’ shadows while completing chores throughout the day. Still as an adult, her happy place is going to her parents’ home to spend time with her loved ones.
“What are you going to do with all that time on your hands?” Felicia received this question many times as her retirement date approached. She found the question amusing because she questioned if she would have any downtime! Felicia continues to be a helper on the farm alongside her mother. As many of us know, maintaining a farm is endless work. Also, Felicia will still be a busy traveler! She and William love to take off on fun adventures whether it be travelling the seas or taking a short road trip. One thing is for certain, no matter how busy Felicia’s life gets, time will always be made for her favorite show, “Days of Our Lives”.
The Association wishes Felicia a retirement filled with happiness, adventures, and hopefully some of that elusive downtime along the way! We are thankful for her dedication to our local agricultural community for the past 32 years.
L to R: Regional Lending Manager Joe Goggin, Senior Loan Officer John Peek, Loan Assistant Tara Davis, Retiring Loan Assistant Felecia Madden, Senior Loan Officer SaraVard Von Gruenigen, Loan Officer Billy Cameron, and CEO & President Jonathan Noe.
NEW EMPLOYEES TO AG CREDIT
TRACY KIDWELL
JOINS
RICHMOND BRANCH
Tracy Kidwell brings 23 years of experience from the banking industry in Madison County to her new role as Loan Assistant at Central Kentucky Ag Credit. A Kentucky resident since the age of 7, Tracy grew up with a strong connection to agriculture, as her family raised hogs and corn in Ohio. She now resides in Berea with her husband and two dogs, and enjoys spending time with her 32 nieces and nephews.
FELDMAN TO BE NEW LOAN ASSISTANT IN STANFORD
Melissa Feldman is currently a Loan Assistant at our Stanford Branch. A proud graduate of Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Prior to Ag Credit she has worked in the finance industry and education sector.
AG CREDIT ATTENDS BLUE & GOLD GALA
Some employees recently attended the Kentucky FFA’s prestigious Blue & Gold Gala. This annual event serves as a vital fundraiser for the Kentucky FFA Foundation, supporting the organization’s mission to empower future generations of agricultural leaders.
The Gala brought together a distinguished gathering of individuals passionate about the future of agriculture. It provided a unique platform for Ag Credit to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to supporting the next generation of farmers and ranchers.
The evening featured a delightful dinner, dancing, and created a festive atmosphere while raising crucial funds for the Kentucky FFA.
Pictured L to R: VP & Chief Lending Officer Richard Medley (wife Mollie), and Regional Lending Managers
Joe Goggin (wife Teresa), Justin Craig (wife Laura), and Willie Wilson (wife Kimberly)
AG CREDIT THANKS SUMMER INTERNS
EMILY MURPHY AND BRADEN PORTER
This summer, Ag Credit was fortunate to welcome two talented interns, Emily Murphy and Braden Porter, to our team.
Emily Murphy, a native of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing at Campbellsville University. With a strong background in 4-H, where she served as the 2022 State Secretary, Emily brings a passion for communication and leadership to the table. These skills, along with her rural Kentucky roots, will undoubtedly benefit her future career.
Braden Porter, from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, recently graduated from the University of Kentucky with a dual degree in Agricultural Economics and Finance. Braden’s experience working on a cattle and hay operation, combined with his internship with the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy last summer, demonstrates his deep connection to agriculture and business.
VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS
Emily and Braden were instrumental in several projects throughout the summer. They played a key role in a Feasibility Project, facilitated podcasts for Beyond Agriculture, assisted with social media content creation, and actively participated in local events. Their hard work and dedication were greatly appreciated by the entire Ag Credit team.
INTERESTED IN INTERNING AT AG CREDIT?
If you’re interested in following in Emily and Braden’s footsteps and gaining valuable experience in the agricultural lending industry, we encourage you to apply for our internship program! Send your cover letter and resume to brobin@agcreditonline.com. Our summer internships typically run from mid-May to the first week of August. For more information about the program and other career opportunities at Ag Credit, visit our website at www.AgCreditOnline.com
Interns Emily Murphy and Braden Porter were apart of a Podcast with Kentucky Farm Bureau. They are pictured with Loan Officer Shelby Wade Kirby and Renee Carrico with KFB.
CULTIVATE VISITS BRATCHER AG
This fall, Cultivate Leaders Andy and Danielle Bratcher welcomed the Cultivate group to Bratcher Ag, their family-owned feed store in Central Kentucky. During the visit, Andy and Danielle shared their journey of growth and diversification, offering insight into how they’ve expanded their operation.
Andy, a fourth-generation farmer, grew up on an active dairy farm and now works alongside his father to crop farm approximately 1,000 acres. In addition to their farming operation, Andy is a Kentucky Farm Bureau Agent at the Hustonville office. Together, Andy and Danielle also manage and operate a Beck’s Seed dealership in Stanford, showcasing their dedication to serving the local agricultural community.
The event featured engaging presentations from Mark Holt, ADM Senior Sales Representative, and Jason Edmonton, ADM Beef Specialist. Attendees had great questions for the presenters, sparking insightful discussions. To top it all off, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal, rounding out an inspiring and educational gathering. The event was a true testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and community in agriculture.
OUTSTANDING IN THEIR FIELD OLIVIA RANDOLPH
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
I am originally from Lebanon, Indiana but currently live in Lexington.
DID YOU GROW UP ON A FARM?
I grew up on my family’s row crop and swine operation. We grow corn and soybeans and have a market hog operation where we sell to Indiana Packers Corporation and also custom freezer pork. In addition to our own pigs, my grandfather also manages a 3500 confinement farrowing operation.
WHERE DID YOU GO TO COLLEGE?
I attended the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. I graduated in 2021 with a degree in Agricultural Economics and minor in Animal Science. While at UK, I was involved in Block and Bridle and was on the college’s livestock judging team.
WERE YOU INVOLVED WITH ANY CLUBS/TEAMS GROWING UP?
Growing up, I was involved in lots of different activities. I played soccer, basketball and softball from the time
I was 4 or 5 throughout high school. I participated in different clubs through my high school like Key Club and the local Kiwanis Leadership Program. Also, I was on my county’s 4-H livestock judging team and showed pigs and sheep.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT YOURSELF.
In my spare time, I enjoy going to UK football and basketball games. I also love to travel back to Indiana and visit my family’s farm. In the summer months, I really enjoy going to the lake with my family and friends. My favorite is Dale Hollow!
FAVORITE PART OF BEING AN AG CREDIT LOAN OFFICER?
My favorite part of being a loan officer is getting to attend different events throughout the communities that the association serves. I really enjoy getting to talk to and get to know our customers while helping them accomplish their goals whether that be buying a farm, a piece of new equipment or building their dream home.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT THE AG CREDIT FALL ROUNDUP
The 2024 Ag Credit Fall Roundup was held this September in Harrodsburg, showcasing the talent and hard work of Kentucky’s junior livestock exhibitors. This year, 51 junior exhibitors from across the state brought 133 head of cattle to compete, with judging expertly conducted by Will Banks of Cynthiana, Ky.
A successful event of this scale is no small feat, and we are fortunate to have a dedicated team that ensures everything runs smoothly. A special thank you goes to our show committee: Joe Goggin, Caleb Sadler, Randa
Morris, Ben Robin, Patrick Durham, and Billy Cameron.
We also extend our gratitude to this year’s volunteers—Lisa Yeager, Lisa Adams, Brad Godbey, and Bud Burdette—whose time and effort were invaluable to the event’s success.
Congratulations to all the exhibitors for their outstanding efforts, and we hope to see everyone return for another great show on the first Saturday in September 2025!
Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Makayla Massey
Reserve Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Hailey Johnson
Showmanship Champions
3rd Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Austin Petow
Reserve Champion Prospect Market Animal Exhibited by Hailey Cooper
Reserve Champion Bred & Owned Bull Exhibited by Sarah Barron
Grand Champion Prospect Market Animal Exhibited by Katie Cooper
Grand Champion Bred & Owned Bull Exhibited by McKenna Jackson
4th Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Makayla Massey
5th Overall Champion Female Exhibited by Hailey Johnson
Petow
EXPRESS
Dealers Near You
Arnett Trailer Sales
Mt Sterling, KY
Bluegrass Feed & Supply
Hustonville, KY
Bobcat Enterprises, Inc.
Lexington, KY
Central Equipment Co.
Lexington, KY
Blandford Mills LLC
Springfield, KY
County Equipment Co.,LLC
Lawrenceburg, KY
Double O Trailer Service, Inc
Paris, KY
Derby State Equipment
Richmond, KY
Haydon Equipment, Inc.
Cynthiana, KY
H&S Tractor Parts
Danville, KY
Larry Brown Machinery Sales
Stanford, KY
Lawson Tractor & Implement
Lebanon & Stanford, KY
LEE Farm Equipment
Lebanon, KY
Meade Tractor
Danville, Georgetown,
Mt. Sterling, Paris, Richmond, & Stanford, KY
Montgomery Tractor Sales
Flemingsburg & Mt. Sterling, KY
Pingleton Trading Co
Lancaster, KY
Red Barn & Assoc., LLC.
Lancaster, KY
Winners Circle Trailer
Lexington, KY
Equipment financing, offered by Ag Credit, is available at these participating dealerships with competitive rates and terms.
Central Kentucky Ag Credit ONLINE AND MOBILE BANKING
More convenient. Even more secure.
Central Kentucky Ag Credit Digital Banking is a fast, easy and convenient way to manage your loans! Register at www.AgCreditOnline.com today to:
• Manage your loans or access funds from your line of credit.
• Schedule unlimited current and future-date payments.
• Access up to 25 months of billing statements and transaction history.
• Enable co-borrowers to register to view and manage loans.
• Download and view annual statements and tax documents.
• Benefit from enhanced login features that keep your online sessions safe and secure.
Here’s what to do:
• Visit our website at www.AgCreditOnline.com and click the Digital Banking link at the top right-hand side of the page to begin the registration process.
• To download our mobile app, visit the App Store or Google Play and search for Central Kentucky Ag Credit Mobile App.
• IMPORTANT: You’ll need your Social Security number or Taxpayer ID number, as well as your loan number to register.
• After downloading the app, select “Register.”
Scan the QR code to view our LEADER online, view videos from the LEADER, and have access to our information online! Like the online version better? Be sure to opt-in to receive our LEADER online in the future!