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Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

From seed beginnings to growing leaders: Shannon Latham’s agriculture journey
For more than two decades, Shannon Latham has helped guide the marketing vision of Latham Hi-Tech Seeds. Now she is bringing that same passion for agriculture, communication and leadership to her new role as Executive Director of the Iowa FFA Foundation. For her, the move feels like a natural extension of the work she has always loved.

“It has been quite a journey,” Shannon said during a recent episode of Beyond the Bushel. “When I look back at the pictures from when John and I started Latham Hi-Tech Hybrids back 2004, you can tell it’s been a year or two. We look a little different than we do now.”

Her path began at Iowa State University, where she and John were both majoring in agriculture. After college, she worked in public relations and marketing before returning to Iowa to join the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. That role sparked something important.

“That really planted that seed for me to be in public service,” she said. “I always knew that I want to be a state representative if I could.”

Her early career also shaped her leadership philosophy. She recalled advice from her first boss: “People support what they help create.” That lesson stayed with her as she grew into leadership roles.

When John started the corn company in 2004, Shannon stepped naturally into marketing.

“ Maybe it was God’s plan,” she said. “John had that background in sales. I had that background in marketing, communications and writing. Chris had the finance background, so it just all came together.”

Over the years, she found joy in leading the team.

“I absolutely love leading the marketing team here,” she said. “Nothing can replace hard work. Nothing replaces relationships.”

Leaving the family business was not a decision she made lightly. But FFA and 4-H shaped her life from a young age, and she felt called to give back.

“At this point in my life, I’m looking for an opportunity to give back,” she said. “I feel so blessed that I also get an opportunity to give back to the Iowa FFA organization.”

Her time at the FFA Enrichment Center has brought a renewed sense of excitement.

“It has been so fun working for the foundation since September of 2025, and it’s like homecoming every week,” she said. “There’s always people every week at the enrichment center popping into my office to say hi.”

She also sees clear parallels between her work at Latham Seeds and her new role.

“In the nonprofit world, we are working really hard to convince people why they should part with their hard-earned money,” she said. “Your brand needs to be distinct. It needs to be relevant. It needs to be consistent.”

Her focus now is helping prepare Iowa’s youth for the future.

“We are really preparing the workforce,” she said. “Regardless of what they go into, they are going to be prepared because of their workforce development and their premier leadership skills that they develop in the FFA.”

To hear more of Shannon’s insights and stories from her career path, listen to the full Beyond the Bushel episode.
Pork Roast with Raspberry Sauce

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours

Course Main Course

Servings 8

Equipment
1 Slow cooker

Ingredients

3 pound boneless pork roast
3/4 tsp salt
1 tsp sage
1/2 tsp pepper
12 ounces frozen unsweetened raspberries (thawed)
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Directions for Pork Roast:
Grease a six-quart crockpot with cooking spray.
Place roast in crockpot; pat top and sides of roast with salt, sage and pepper.
Pour about 1 cup of water or chicken broth around the bottom of the roast.
Cook on LOW for 9 hours or until the roast pulls apart easily with a fork.
Set raspberries in the refrigerator to thaw.
Directions for Raspberry Sauce:
In a large saucepan, combine: sugar, cornstarch, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Stir in the vinegar, reserved raspberry juice, and raspberries.
Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
Remove from heat; add lemon juice and butter.
Stir until butter is melted.

Notes

Let pork stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with the raspberry sauce.

Cook’s Tip: We always have leftover raspberry sauce, and it’s too good to toss! Transfer the cooled raspberry sauce into a freezer-safe container. Then heat and serve another day. This sauce is delicious with grilled pork chops or chicken breasts.
Team Latham

January 30, 2026

Food & Family, Latham News, Recipes, Winter
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Meet Our New RSM For Eastern Iowa: Levi Graver
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds welcomes Levi Graver as the new regional sales manager for eastern Iowa. With a lifelong connection to agriculture, a strong relationship-driven mindset and deep respect for family-owned values, Levi brings both experience and authenticity to the Latham team.

Levi grew up on a family farm near Lisbon, Iowa, where he was actively involved in day-to-day operations, including caring for livestock and working with row-crop production.

“Those early mornings and long days helped shape my work ethic and gave me a deep appreciation for the commitment it takes to succeed in agriculture,” Levi says.

That farm-first mindset continues today as Levi and his wife raise their family. The two have known each other since childhood and have been married for seven years.

Together, they are raising two young children and enjoy sharing the values of hard work and togetherness that come from a rural upbringing. Their household also includes three dogs: a Blue Heeler and two miniature dachshunds.

“I love having my kids be a part of the farming lifestyle, even though we don’t live on the farm,” he says.

Levi attended Iowa State University and has built a career that blends hands-on farming with professional sales experience. After spending a decade in automotive sales, he returned to farming while continuing to pursue his passion for working with people and helping them make confident decisions.

That combination of production agriculture and sales gives Levi a strong ability to understand both the operational and financial sides of farming — allowing him to relate to growers while also helping them identify opportunities to improve their operations.

Outside of work, Levi enjoys spending time outdoors with his family.

“I love going fishing — especially for trout — and I also enjoy camping with my family,” he says. “There’s nothing better than sitting around a campfire together.”

What drew Levi to Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is the company’s commitment to integrity and family ownership.

“It is a family-owned company, and our word means something,” Levi says.

In his new role, Levi is focused on building strong relationships with farmers across eastern Iowa while helping them get more out of every acre.

“I’m looking forward to working with farmers, learning how their operations are unique and helping improve their return on investment,” Levi says.

Please join us in welcoming Levi Graver to the Latham Hi-Tech Seeds team. We’re excited to see how his experience, work ethic and passion for agriculture will support growers throughout eastern Iowa.
Smoked Prime Rib

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Course Main Course

Equipment
1 smoker

Ingredients

1 6-8lb prime rib
6-8 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and sliced
3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 tbsp kosher salt
1 1/2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup beef baste
2 cups red wine
1 cup unsalted butter, melted (2 sticks)

Instructions

Pat the prime rib dry. Cut small slits all over the meat and insert garlic. Add rosemary, then season generously with salt and pepper. Mix melted butter, beef baste, and red wine.
Preheat smoker to 525°F. Smoke the prime rib for 30 minutes, basting once or twice. Remove from smoker and loosely tent with foil while the smoker cools to 225°F, about 20–30 minutes.
Return the roast to the smoker and cook at 225°F until internal temperature reaches 125°F, about 1½–2½ hours. Remove, rest 20–30 minutes, then slice and serve.
Team Latham

January 23, 2026

Beef, Food & Family, Winter
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Meet Our New RSM For West Central Minnesota: Daniel Williamson
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is excited to welcome Daniel Williamson as the new regional sales manager for west central Minnesota, bringing with him deep agricultural roots and a wide range of hands-on experience.

Daniel grew up on a small farm near Spicer, Minnesota, where his family raised certified organic seed soybeans, corn, oats, barley and alfalfa hay. They also managed a flock of sheep, raising and selling feeder lambs. Agriculture has long been a family affair.

His father, Donnel, is a farmer and township clerk in Irving Township, while his mother, Christa, is a high school agriculture teacher at KMS High School. Daniel said growing up in that environment shaped his passion for farming and leadership.

“I grew up on a small farm near Spicer, MN,” Daniel said. “We raised certified organic seed soybeans, corn, oats, barley, and alfalfa hay. We also have a herd of sheep that we raise and sell feeder lambs from.”

Daniel attended South Dakota State University, earning a degree in agronomy with a minor in precision agriculture. He also spent two and a half years working at a cooperative as a crop advisor, gaining experience working directly with growers and their operations.

“I attended South Dakota State University for Agronomy with a minor in Precision Agriculture,” he said. “I also spent two and a half years working at a coop as a crop advisor.”

Beyond crop production, Daniel’s background includes experience with livestock operations, working with beef cattle and hogs. While in college, he also worked part time for SGS, assisting with seed planting for germination testing.

Leadership and service played a major role in Daniel’s youth. He was actively involved in FFA and 4-H, serving as a regional officer and earning his American FFA Degree.

“I was very involved in FFA and 4-H growing up,” Daniel said. “I had served as a region officer and have obtained my American degree.”

Daniel said his interest in Latham Hi-Tech Seeds grew as he learned more about the company’s values and approach.

“I wasn’t to familiar with Latham but became interested the more I looked into them,” he said. “I was attracted to Latham because they are a family run company and talk with their farmers and sales staff to see what is missing from our seed portfolio and what can be improved.”

As regional sales manager, Daniel is focused on building strong relationships with dealers and supporting their success.

“I am looking forward to meeting and working with our dealers and helping them grow their business,” he said.

Outside of work, Daniel enjoys ice fishing, deer hunting and turkey hunting, staying connected to the outdoors and the land that shaped his agricultural journey.

Welcome to the Latham family, Daniel! We’re excited to see how your strong agricultural roots and agronomy education will support farmers and dealers across west central Minnesota.
Spinach Sausage Ravioli Bake

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes

Course Main Course

Servings 6

Equipment
baking dish
skillet

Ingredients

10 oz cheese ravioli
4 cups spinnach
24 oz jar vodka sauce
2 cups shredded mozzare
5 oz pesto
1 lb Italian sausage

Instructions

Add seasonings to taste. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning.
Brown the sausage in a skillet, seasoning as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Layer ravioli in a baking dish while the sausage is cooking.
Add the cooked sausage over the ravioli, then top with spinach.
Pour vodka sauce over the top, making sure everything is fully covered.
Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then dollop pesto on top.
Bake at 400 degrees for 25–30 minutes. Broil on low for a few minutes if desired to crisp the mozzarella.
Team Latham

January 16, 2026

Beef, Food & Family, Uncategorized, Winter
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Strength in Community: One Latham Dealer’s Story of Resilience and Support
In the summer of 2025, Latham® dealer Jason Youngkrantz faced a health challenge that stopped him in his tracks. After experiencing persistent chest pain, vision changes and unstable blood pressure, Jason was rushed to the ER, where doctors discovered a large mass in his chest and neck. Medical testing confirmed it was a schwannoma, a rare but non-cancerous tumor pressing against major arteries and affecting his daily life.

The tumor made even simple tasks — walking, holding his daughter or working on the farm — difficult, and doctors estimated Jason would be out of work for months as he pursued treatment. The physical strain was only one part of the challenge; the family also faced mounting medical bills, travel costs and financial pressure that came with extended time away from work.

To support Jason and his family during this difficult season, friends and neighbors organized a GoFundMe campaign, meals, childcare help and chores — easing day-to-day burdens so the family could focus on healing. The community’s generosity brought encouragement and strength when it was needed most.

Before this health crisis, Jason was a familiar face across western Minnesota farmland. A third-generation grower from Lake Lillian, he learned the values of hard work and rural community from his father, uncles and grandfather. As soon as he was old enough to drive, Jason was hauling corn and sugar beets — early experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to agriculture.

He and his wife have built a small hobby farm where they’re raising their children, Hunter and Parker, with hopes of growing their operation over time. His family’s roots in farming extend back four generations with Youngkrantz Family Farms, founded by his great-grandfather Carl and later led by his grandfather Earl.

Jason first connected with Latham Seeds through social media and became a dealer to expand his agronomic knowledge and serve the growers in his community.

“The chance to learn more about seed products and support local farmers was really exciting to me,” he says.

From the beginning, Jason felt welcomed by the Latham team.

“It has been incredibly welcoming,” he says. “Having (Sales Manager Amy Rohe) and my former seed representative visit my home to help me get started showed me firsthand the supportive culture Latham strives for.”

When Jason was unable to visit customers due to his health, the Latham team stepped in. Dealer Development Lead Bryan Rohe helped by visiting customers on Jason’s behalf — a gesture that meant the world to him.

“It has meant everything,” Jason says. “Their willingness to help shows how much they go above and beyond for their dealers.”

On December 10, 2025, Jason underwent a successful surgery to remove the tumor through a single incision, avoiding more invasive procedures and giving him a hopeful path forward.

As he continues to recover, Jason looks forward to returning to the farm and reconnecting with customers.

“I’m excited to get back to the work I love,” he says.

Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is proud to support Jason Youngkrantz through challenges and triumphs. We celebrate his courage and the strength of his community.
Cheesesteak Tortellini

The ultimate comfort food!

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes

Course Main Course

Equipment
1 pot to cook the tortellini
1 large skillet
1 spatula

Ingredients

1 lb Beef sirloin
2 cloves Garlic freshly minced or garlic powder
1 Green bell pepper medium
1 Onion medium
12 oz Cheese tortellini
3 tbsp All-purpose flour
1 Pepper
1 Salt
1 tbsp Olive oil
3 tbsp Butter
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
2 cups Whole milk

Instructions

Cook the tortellini according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
In a large skillet, sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
Add sliced beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add the tortellini and toss to coat.
Top with provolone, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted. And ready to serve!
Team Latham

December 19, 2025

Beef, Food & Family, Uncategorized, Winter
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Deep Roots, Bright Future: Welcoming Dealer Ryan Knobbe
For as long as he can remember, farming has been at the center of Ryan Knobbe’s life. Growing up on his family’s diversified operation, he spent his days around cattle, corn, soybeans and alfalfa — and watching his dad run a custom spraying business. Those early experiences shaped not just his work ethic, but his appreciation for the relationships and responsibilities that come with agriculture.

“I’ve been around farming ever since I could walk,” Ryan says. “It’s always been my main priority.”

After graduating from Kuemper Catholic School, where he was active in FFA and football, Ryan attended DMACC in Ankeny before returning home to build his future. Today, he and his wife, Taylor, are preparing to welcome their first child at the beginning of the new year — the start of a new chapter for their growing family.

Family is also a big part of Ryan’s work life. One of five siblings, he now partners with his youngest brother, Ross, as a Latham dealer.

“Working with my brother and watching us grow something we started from the ground up means a lot,” he says.

Ryan’s connection to Latham Seeds goes back to childhood.

“I’ve honestly known about Latham since I was a kid,” he said. “When (a Latham RSM) called and asked if I’d be interested in becoming a dealer, it just felt right.”

What stood out most was the culture that feels more like family than corporate.

“The family atmosphere with Latham is what attracted me,” Ryan says. “I’ve never heard a negative thing about them. It’s not big corporate, and that really stood out to me.”

When he’s not helping farmers find the right products for their acres, Ryan enjoys spending time with family and friends or relaxing on the golf course. But whether he’s on the farm or off it, his passion for helping growers succeed remains constant.

“Working with other farmers makes it easy to start conversations because we share the same challenges and goals,” he says. “At the end of the day, it’s about relationships and helping each other grow.”

As Ryan and Ross continue building their seed business, they’re doing more than offering hybrids and varieties. They’re carrying forward the values their family has lived by for generations: hard work, commitment and the belief that farming is stronger when you grow together.
Ham Balls

Can be frozen!

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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Equipment
2 mixing bowls
1 baking dish

Ingredients

Ham Balls
5 lb ham loaf
3 eggs
3 cups graham crackers, crushed
2 cups milk
Sauce
2 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 tsp mustard
2 cans tomato soup
3/4 cup vinegar

Instructions

Combine ham ball ingredients well and make into balls.
Place in baking dish
Pour sauce on top of ham balls
Bake for 1 hour at 325 degrees.
Team Latham

December 3, 2025

Appetizers, Fall, Food & Family, General, Pork, Uncategorized, Winter
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Fiskness Feed and Seed Builds a Farm for the Future
For Jed Fiskness, agriculture isn’t just a business; it’s a family’s legacy in the making. From selling farm-fresh eggs and produce to becoming a Latham® Hi-Tech Seeds dealer, he’s helped build Fiskness Family Farm and Fiskness Feed & Seed into a diversified operation grounded in hard work, family values and a passion for local agriculture.

Jed grew up on a dairy and row crop farm, but after spending nearly 15 years running a sporting goods business, he found his way back to his agricultural roots.

“I always wanted to farm,” Jed says. “When I graduated high school in 2000, it was tough to get started. But I knew someday I’d come back.”

That dream took shape 17 years ago, when the family started out with just six chickens. Today, Fiskness Feed and Seed includes 1,200 chickens, feed and seed sales, poultry production and a thriving farmers’ market business.

Their stand features everything from fresh produce and meats to pickles, jams and jellies, with as many as 28 varieties available at the height of the season.

The whole family plays a role in keeping the business running. Jed’s oldest daughter, Mackenzie, a crop and weed science graduate from North Dakota State University, manages agronomy and seed operations. His son, Zach, handles farm equipment, deliveries and day-to-day logistics while studying agribusiness. His youngest daughter, Abby, runs “Abby’s Farmhouse Flavor,” a cottage bakery known for soft pretzels, cookies and pies.

“We do a little bit of everything,” Jed says. “But the goal has always been to build something my kids can come home to — something we can all be proud of.”

The family’s connection to Latham Seeds has strengthened that foundation.

“When I was looking for a seed company to work with, Latham stood out because it’s family-owned,” Jed says. “You can talk to the owners, and everyone genuinely cares about the dealers, employees and customers. It’s a company that fits our values perfectly.”

On their own acres, the Fiskness family plants Latham products, a choice Jed says is rooted in firsthand experience.

“I don’t sell anything I wouldn’t use myself,” Jed says. “We’ve had great success with Latham seed, and I’m proud to stand behind it.”

Beyond the fields, Jed finds joy in connecting with people at farmers’ markets and in the community.

“I love helping consumers understand where their food comes from,” Jed says. “Whether it’s seed customers or someone buying a dozen eggs, those conversations matter.”

Looking ahead, the Fiskness family hopes to continue expanding their seed, feed and vegetable operations while keeping their focus on what matters most: family and community.

“We’ve had our share of challenges, but we’re building something lasting,” Jed says. “At the end of the day, it’s about creating opportunities for the next generation, and doing it together.”
Great Grandma’s Rice Hotdish

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Equipment
1 Bowl
1 Oven Safe Baking Dish

Ingredients

10.5 oz can of Cream of Chicken Soup
10.5 oz can of Chicken & Rice Condensed Soup
4 Tbsp of Low Sodium Soy Sauce
1 cup White Rice
1 pound of browned ground hamburger
1 cup celery sliced in 1/4″ pieces
1 cup carrot cut into thin rounds
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups water

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Pour into an oven safe baking dish and cover with tinfoil.
Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 1 hour.
Stir the hotdish and put back into oven uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes or until carrots and rice are tender and all water is absorbed by rice.
Team Latham

November 20, 2025

Food & Family, Recipes
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Meet Jodi Lundt: Bringing Experience and Enthusiasm to Latham Hi-Tech Seeds
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is excited to welcome Jodi Lundt as the newest member of our accounting team. Jodi joins us as our accounts payable specialist, bringing more than a decade of experience in agriculture and a passion for helping others.

Born and raised in Mason City, Jodi grew up as the youngest of three children. Her roots run deep in North Iowa, where family has always been a big part of her story.

“My dad is one of 16 kids and my mom was an only child,” Jodi says. “So, family gatherings were always a mix of big and small!”

An active athlete growing up, Jodi played volleyball and softball through high school and graduated from Newman Catholic High School. Today, she and her husband Doug live on a farm southeast of Rockwell, where they’re raising their two children, Kaylie and Cash. The Lundts stay busy on weekends, traveling to cattle shows or sports tournaments. Their farm is also home to two corgis, Ty and Trixie, who Jodi says are “definitely spoiled.”

“Both of our kids are involved in showing cattle and love sports,” Jodi says. “We have a few cows, along with their show cattle, so there’s always something going on.”

Although Jodi didn’t grow up in agriculture, she quickly found a love for the industry after meeting her husband.

“I honestly had no ag background until I met Doug, who farms,” she says. “After a few years together, I started working at Five Star Cooperative in the agronomy department.”

During her 12 years there, Jodi learned the ins and outs of fertilizer, chemicals and seed — and discovered her favorite part of the job was building relationships with growers, saying she loves getting to work with farmers and learning from them.

Outside of work, Jodi enjoys spending time outdoors, especially when it involves the beach. She also loves traveling, side-by-side rides with family and friends, reading and relaxing with a good Netflix series.

When asked what drew her to Latham Seeds, Jodi says it was the company’s reputation and culture.

“I had heard good things after a friend of mine started working here. I was super excited to join a family-owned business where you’re more than just a number.”

Now, Jodi looks forward to expanding her skill set in a new role.

“I’ve always worked on the other side of things — doing billing and accounts receivable,” Jodi says. “I’m excited to learn more about accounts payable and keep growing.”

Please join us in welcoming Jodi Lundt to the Latham Seeds family!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This is a perfect replica of the original, with a tender meat mixture and flavorful topping the family will love!

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Rest Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes

Equipment
1 sauté pan
1 whisk
1 Large bowl
1 Loaf pan
1 sauce brush
1 knife

Ingredients

1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced
1/2 cup bell pepper finely diced
2 pounds 80% lean ground beef
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
2 eggs whisked
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
For the topping:
1/2-3/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. yellow mustard

Instructions

Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Sauté the diced peppers and onions in a small pan with the olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This gives them a more subtle flavor and texture. Set aside and let cool.
Combined the whisked eggs, crushed crackers, onions, bell peppers, cheese, milk, and salt/pepper in a large bowl.
Add ground beef and mix until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat, we want tender results.
Form it in a loaf and place it into a loaf pan. Not using a loaf pan can result in the loaf falling apart. It also takes much longer to cook, which causes it to dry out.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Combine the topping ingredients while it bakes and set aside.
Remove the meatloaf and brush on the topping. Bake for an additional 30-40 minutes. (Pull it once it reaches 155 degrees.)
Let it rest for 15 minutes in the loaf pan prior to slicing in. It will increase 8-10 degrees in temperature during this time. Slicing in too early also causes the juices to leak out. Ensure the middle is 160 degrees before you slice it.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and enjoy!
Team Latham

November 11, 2025

Beef, Fall, Food & Family, General, Uncategorized
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Greg Jaacks Retires After 50 Years As Latham’s ‘Boy Next Door’
The house where the Jaacks family lived next door to Willard Evelyn Latham.

Greg Jaacks was literally the boy next door. He and his three siblings – Jeff, Kim and Steve – grew up in the little house beside Willard and Evelyn Latham, who employed Greg’s dad at Latham Seeds.

Marvin had moved his family to a larger house a few miles away and rented his own ground to farm. To accommodate the growing Jaacks (pronounced “Jakes”) family, Willard offered to add on two bedrooms to the small house next to his own. That was just the incentive Marvin needed to return to Latham Seeds.

The connections run deep between the Jaacks and Latham families.

“Willard gave me my first haircut as a little boy in their basement,” Greg recalls. Willard and Evelyn’s oldest son, Bill, held baby Greg during the haircut.

Greg getting his first haircut by Willard Latham (Bill Latham is holding him).

Greg helped at Latham Seeds as needed while he was in high school. Upon graduating in May 1975, Greg took a full-time job with a local farmer. He loved everything about the job from tilling soil and baling hay to shelling corn and feeding cattle. One thing he didn’t like was the pay. Greg worked 10 hours a day, six days a week for $75 flat. He wanted his own place but needed to make more money first.

“I asked my dad if I could get on his crew at the (Latham) plant,” Greg says. “He told me I’d have to find out for myself. He said I’d better go talk to Willard.”

Greg mustered up the nerve to knock on Willard’s front door. Evelyn answered and welcomed him inside. Willard told Greg he could start work the following Monday if he got a haircut and shaved his beard — which he promptly did.

Greg’s dad, Marvin, with Bill and Don Latham. Marvin worked for 43 years at Latham Seeds.

“As long as you gave Willard what he was expecting, as long as you kept your promise and did your job, he was good to you,” Greg says.

Greg is grateful he got to work beside his dad for nearly 22 years at Latham Seeds.

“He really was my best friend,” Greg says of his dad. “It’s been a good, solid job here at Latham. When I started here, that’s what my grandpa said: Latham’s a good solid place to work.” Greg’s grandpa was a local farmer, who also worked on Marvin’s crew during the winter months.

Greg and his wife, Donna, have two daughters, Trisha and Sandy. They enjoy attending their two grandchildren’s activities and watching them play sports. In his spare time, Greg likes to fish, ride his Harley and watch NASCAR.
Ham Loaf

Greg also enjoys his mom’s Ham Loaf recipe, which reminds him of his childhood on the farm. He is sharing that cherished recipe here.

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 7 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 22 minutes

Course Main Course

Equipment
1 knife
1 mixing bowl
1 Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper

Ingredients

Meat Loaf
1-1/4 pounds ham
1 pound fresh pork burger
1/2 pound ground beef
2 eggs beaten
1 cup milk
1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Sauce
1 can tomato soup
1-3/4 cup brown sugar
½ cup vinegar scant
1 teaspoon dry mustard
Optional
½ onion finely diced
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine all meat ingredients; form into loaf.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper or use loaf pan.
Pour sauce over meat and bake for 1 hour, or until the inside of loaf reaches 160.
Rest for 5 to 7 minutes before slicing.
Cook's Tip
To freeze leftovers, slice into individual portions and tightly wrap with plastic. Place in an airtight container or Ziploc® freezer bag. Leftovers can easily be made into “do-over” sandwiches.
Team Latham

October 22, 2025

Fall, Food & Family, General, Pork, Uncategorized
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Cranberries, Careers and Community: A Wisconsin Legacy in Action
Cranberries may be small, but in Wisconsin, they carry a big legacy. For Heidi Slinkman, a generational grower and Business Manager at Gaynor Cranberry Company, cranberries are more than a crop. They’re a calling rooted in family, heritage and community.

Roots in Cranberry Country

Heidi grew up in Wisconsin Rapids, a town tied to agriculture and papermaking. Competitive and active, she and her twin sister spent their youth in sports and leadership activities. Student Council and the Badger Girls State program sharpened her confidence, but it was her grandfather’s wisdom about travel and land stewardship that truly shaped her outlook on farming. Today, Heidi and her husband, Brian, are raising two children who keep life busy and joyful.

Wisconsin: The Heart of Cranberries

Wisconsin grows more than 60% of the U.S. cranberry crop. With sandy soils, marshlands and generations of family farms, the state is uniquely suited for cultivation. Contrary to myth, cranberries don’t grow in water. They grow on woody vines and are flooded at harvest, when ripe berries float for collection. The industry contributes nearly $1 billion annually to Wisconsin’s economy and supports over 4,000 jobs. Through Ocean Spray Cooperative, Heidi has shared her farm’s story from New York to London.

A Family Story Woven into Cranberries

The Slinkman story is inseparable from cranberries. Heidi’s great-great-grandmother, Caroline Dempze, emigrated from Germany. Widowed, she and her children worked for the Gaynor brothers, who owned a cranberry marsh. Her son Charles began there at age 10 and later took over the farm when the Gaynor’s passed without heirs. Today, that farm is Gaynor Cranberry Company.

This fall marks the family’s 149th harvest. Heidi’s parents, Gary and Susan Dempze, raised their children with the expectation that they pursue education and careers off the farm before returning. That test of passion ultimately grounded Heidi in agriculture.

From Business to “Farm HR”

Now, Heidi and her sister Jenna manage the farm alongside their parents and crew. Jenna oversees crop production, while Heidi focuses on finance, HR and property management — what she calls “Farm HR.” Together, they lead eight full-time employees while carrying forward a culture of innovation and teamwork.

Beyond the farm, Heidi co-founded Cranberry Learning, Inc., a nonprofit creating STEAM-based resources for K–12 classrooms.

“We want students to see agriculture not just as farming, but as a world of opportunity,” Heidi says.

Looking Ahead

For Heidi, farming is about resilience and community. Whether mentoring students, advocating for agriculture, or supporting women’s soccer, she embodies stewardship.

Her message is simple: “Eat more cranberries and consider a Cran Career. Agriculture needs the next generation of leaders, which she calls “Ag-Force.”
Fresh Cranberry Salsa

Recipe from Cranberry Learning.

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes

Equipment
1 Food processor
1 small bowl

Ingredients

1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup sugar
6 green onions chopped
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves chopped
1 jalapeño pepper; halved seeded and finely chopped.
Tortilla Chips or Crackers
Optional 8oz. Cream Cheese

Instructions

Pulse cranberries and sugar in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
Transfer to a small bowl.
Stir in the green onions, cilantro and jalapeno pepper.
Modify to your preferred taste for tartness with less sugar and spiciness with peppers.
Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, etc.
Or, spread cream cheese on a serving tray, drain salsa and spoon over cream cheese.
Team Latham

October 17, 2025

Appetizers, Fall, Food & Family, General, Recipes, Uncategorized
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Meet Our New RSM for North Central Iowa: Kolton Ricklefs
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is excited to welcome Kolton Ricklefs as our new Regional Sales Manager for North Central Iowa. With deep roots in agriculture, a strong work ethic and a passion for helping growers succeed, Kolton brings a wealth of hands-on experience and enthusiasm to the Latham team.

Growing Up in Rural Iowa

Kolton grew up in Knierim, Iowa, a small rural community where agriculture has alwaysbeen a way of life. Throughout high school, he stayed active in football, track, golf andFFA. All activities that helped him develop teamwork, discipline and leadership skillsthat continue to serve him today.

“I started working for a local grower when I was just 11,” Kolton says. “That experience really sparked my interest in agronomy and set me on the path to where I am now.”

Kolton went on to take every agricultural class available in high school before continuinghis education at Iowa Central Community College, where he earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Agronomy.

A Passion for Helping Farmers Succeed

After college, Kolton built his career as a sales agronomist, working for cooperatives across north-central Iowa. His hands-on experience in crop protection, fertilizer recommendations and precision agriculture has given him great insight into the challenges and opportunities growers face each season.

Kolton says he was drawn to Latham because of the company’s strong reputation for quality and its commitment to helping farmers reach their full potential.

“I chose Latham because I want my customers to have the best quality seed available,” Kolton says. “It’s all about helping them find success on their farms.”

Building Relationships and Sharing Knowledge

In his new role, Kolton looks forward to meeting customers, fellow RSMs and team members while building long-term relationships throughout the region.

“I’m excited to get out in the field, connect with growers, and provide agronomic recommendations that really make a difference,” he says.

Kolton’s years of experience — combined with his background in agronomy and dedication to customer success — will help him deliver the trusted service and expertise that Latham customers count on.

Outdoorsman at Heart

When he’s not working with growers, Kolton enjoys spending time outdoors. An avid waterfowl hunter and fisherman, he makes the most of every season Iowa has to offer. He also enjoys time with his Irish and Italian family, where good food and laughter are never in short supply.

Welcome to the Latham family, Kolton! We’re excited to see how your agronomy background and passion for helping farmers thrive will make a lasting impact in North Central Iowa.
Spicy Pretzels

Today Kolton is sharing one of his family’s go-to snacks that’s perfect for gatherings — or a long day in the combine.

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours

Equipment
1 mixing bowl
1 Baking Sheet
1 pair of gloves (recommended)

Ingredients

2 (10 oz) bags of pretzels and corn chips
1 pkg or 3 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
1 tsp garlic powder
3 tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup vegetable oil
1 Tbsp hot sauce

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together (gloves recommended).
Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 200°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Team Latham

October 9, 2025

Appetizers, Fall, Food & Family, General, Recipes, Sides, Uncategorized