We all know farming isn’t just a job — it’s a way of life. For Shawn Kreutner, that life started on his family farm just south of Vinton, Iowa, where he grew up surrounded by agriculture. From an early age, he was involved in 4-H, FFA and showing livestock, building a foundation that would shape his future. After graduating from Vinton-Shellsburg Community School in 1997, he pursued a degree in Swine Management at Ellsworth Community College, knowing that his future was firmly planted in farming.
Shawn’s journey in seed sales began in 2001 after the passing of his father, when he stepped up to continue the family’s farming legacy. Over the years, he worked with several seed companies, but he wanted a partner that shared his values — one that prioritized farmers over corporate interests. That search led him to Latham Hi-Tech Seeds.
“I am now going on my sixth year as a dealer with Latham Hi-Tech Seeds and it has been a success,” Shawn says.
The independent, family-owned seed company aligns with his commitment to providing top-quality products and personalized service to farmers in his area.
Shawn and his wife, Sara, have been married for 17 years and continue to raise their three children — son Will and twin daughters Candace and Carly — on the same farm where he grew up. Together, they raise corn, soybeans, hay, cattle and show pigs, carrying on a deep-rooted agricultural tradition. When they’re not working in the fields or tending to livestock, the Kreutners enjoy traveling to farm shows and spending time as a family.
Of course, no Latham story is complete without a favorite recipe! When the Kreutners gather together, one of their go-to appetizers is “Hanky Panky” — a savory, cheesy snack that’s always a hit. Whether it’s for a casual get-together or a big game day, this family favorite is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you have never had a Hanky Panky, you are in for a treat! There is nothing improper about this Hanky Panky Recipe for old-fashioned, delicious, cocktail rye bread appetizers, sometimes called a "polish mistake," topped with a combination of sausage, hamburger meat and, what else, lots of gooey cheesy goodness!
1loafthinly sliced party rye bread(sometimes called cocktail rye bread)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400° F.
Add ground beef and sausage to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir and cook until browned. Use a potato masher or large fork to break up any large clumps of meat.
When the meat has browned, drain off any excess fat.
Add oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 20 minutes.
Cut the cheese into cubes and add to the meat mixture. Stir until the cheese has melted and everything is thoroughly blended, remove from the heat.
Use a small ice-cream scoop (about 1¼ inches in diameter) or a tablespoon to add a dollop of the meat and cheese mixture to each piece of bread.
Place on a cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbling.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
You can change this recipe into Hanky Panky Dip by adding a can of Rotel and cooking everything in a crockpot or slow cooker until the cheese is melted. Serve with sturdy chips like Frito scoops.I recommend using processed cheese like Velveeta in this recipe; if you’re not a fan, you can experiment with cheeses that melt well, such as Fontina or Monterey Jack.Be sure to drain off any excess fat after cooking the meat mixture to prevent the mixture from becoming too greasy.The meat and cheese mixture should be creamy and spreadable but not runny. It might not spread well on the bread if it’s too thick, and if it’s too runny, it could make it soggy.Serve hanky pankies warm. If they cool down and the cheese solidifies, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes
Latham Seeds is excited to welcome Chelsea Bamrick as our newest Seed Account Manager! With a background in agriculture, Chelsea brings a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and expertise to her role.
Chelsea grew up on an acreage outside Dougherty, Iowa, where her family raised cattle, hogs, corn and soybeans. Farming was a way of life for her, and she was actively involved in agriculture from a young age. Her dad and brother continue to farm today alongside other family members, keeping their legacy going strong.
A graduate of Rockford Senior High School, Chelsea balanced academics, athletics and leadership, participating in cheerleading, softball, volleyball and track while serving as her senior class president. After high school, she attended Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, earning her associate degree. Chelsea then returned home to begin working at Five Star Co-op, where she expanded her knowledge in ag and built strong relationships with farmers.
Chelsea and her husband, Jake, live in Rockwell with their two boys, Holdyn and Gannon, who attend West Fork schools. Jake is self-employed and runs his own spraying business, helping farmers maintain healthy and productive fields. The family loves spending time together outdoors — whether camping, golfing or caring for their four dogs.
Between growing up on a farm and an ag career that spans more than 15 years, Chelsea was familiar with Latham Seeds before joining. “I’ve known about Latham for many years, and when I came across this job opportunity, I thought it was a great fit for me and my family,” she says. “I’m excited to work with a new group of people at this family-owned business.”
Chelsea’s extensive experience in agriculture, paired with her dedication to supporting farmers, makes her a perfect addition to the Latham team. “I’m looking forward to helping growers achieve success and navigating the ever-changing world of ag,” she says.
Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys attending her children’s events, gardening, reading, golfing and traveling. She also likes sharing family favorite recipes, like Taco Pasta Salad — a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s a go-to for her family.
Please join us in welcoming Chelsea to the Latham Seeds family!
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinsed under cold water
While pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing in a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix well.
Add drained pasta, tomatoes, corn, black beans, cheese and cilantro. Stir well to combine. Add more salt, pepper, and/or cilantro if needed.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving so that flavors can deepen and pasta chills.
There’s something special about sharing a warm bowl of soup on a chilly winter day — especially when it’s a family recipe passed down through generations. At Latham Seeds, we know traditions run deep, whether it’s on the farm, in the field or around the kitchen table. That’s why we’re excited to celebrate National Soup Month with a “souper” kickoff to one of our favorite times of year: the countdown to the Big Game!
This January, we’re bringing together the Latham family of dealers, customers and team members for a unique celebration. Our “Souper Bowl” series will spotlight favorite soup recipes from across Latham Country — hearty creations that have become game-day staples and wintertime must-haves. From tried-and-true classics to bold new flavors, we’ll share recipes that are sure to warm your soul and inspire your next meal.
As we approach the Big Game on February 9, stay tuned to our social channels for recipe reveals, cooking tips and maybe even a few surprises along the way. Whether you’re rooting for your team to take home the trophy or just looking for a new soup recipe to try, we can’t wait to share this “souper” journey with you.
Here’s to a season full of great food, great company and great games. Our first recipe won Latham’s chili cookoff last year (thanks Renata!) so be sure to find out why.
What You Loved Most on Latham’s Social Media in 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what resonated most with our followers this year. Social media allows us to share the stories that matter to Latham Seeds, and more importantly, to you. From welcoming new team members to celebrating high-performing products, you’ve helped shape our story by engaging with the content that means the most.
This year, four out of the top five posts focused on our people — the heart of Latham Seeds. From highlighting the dedication of our dealers to introducing a new district sales manager, these stories inspired connections and showcased the shared passion of the Latham community. And, of course, who could forget the buzz around Latham® 6306 — a product that’s delivering impressive results in the field!
Here’s a look at the top five social posts you loved in 2024:
#1. Morey Seed: Celebrating their contributions and commitment to the Latham family.
Your interactions, comments and shares fuel our efforts to craft content that truly matters. As we look to 2025, we’re excited to keep sharing stories that inspire, connect and celebrate the incredible Latham community. So, stay engaged and let us know what you want to see next year — we’re all ears!
Thank you for making 2024 such an incredible year. Here’s to more milestones and memories in 2025!
Meet Brad VerSteeg: Building Stronger Roots in Southwest Minnesota
We’re proud to welcome Brad VerSteeg as our new Regional Sales Manager for Southwest Minnesota! A seasoned professional with deep ties to agriculture and a passion for independent seed companies, Brad brings a wealth of experience, a family-first mindset and a commitment to helping farmers grow their legacies.
Brad grew up on a diversified family farm in Rock County, Minnesota, raising corn, soybeans, alfalfa and oats alongside livestock. With a background steeped in agriculture and years of experience in the seed industry, Brad’s journey has come full circle — back to an independent, family-owned seed company.
After earning his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Systems Technology and Business from South Dakota State University (Go Jacks!), Brad initially envisioned a career in the equipment industry. However, the pull of working closely with farmers led him to his first role with a family-owned seed company, and he hasn’t looked back since.
“I discovered Latham Seeds on Facebook, and I couldn’t be happier to join this incredible team,” Brad says. “I’m excited to build distribution in Southwest Minnesota and help our dealers grow and succeed. My favorite part of the job is finding the right person to join the Latham family, supporting their growth and watching them achieve success.”
Brad’s story is also one of family, tradition and connection. He still enjoys time on his family’s 750-acre farm, riding motorcycles, snowmobiling with his son Tate and gathering with loved ones. And speaking of family traditions, Brad’s grandmother was a WWII war bride from Japan — a unique chapter in the VerSteeg family history.
At the heart of Brad’s story is a shared value with Latham Seeds: the importance of family. It’s why he’s excited to join an independent company that understands the legacy-building work farmers do every day. “I look forward to bringing my past experience and blending it with Latham’s tools and processes to serve our dealers and customers.”
To wrap things up — and to celebrate the VerSteeg family’s love of food and togetherness — we’re thrilled to share one of Brad’s favorite family recipes: The VerSteeg Lettuce Salad. Handcrafted by the VerSteeg men at family gatherings, it’s a simple yet flavorful dish made with shredded lettuce, chopped onion, boiled eggs, bacon, a little bacon grease and a splash of vinegar. It’s a dish that’s as timeless as the traditions it represents.
So, here’s to new beginnings with Brad VerSteeg, stronger roots in Southwest Minnesota, and the family recipes that bring us together.
Meet Renata Walsh: Latham’s New Accounts Payable Specialist
Renata Walsh recently joined the Latham Seeds family as our new Accounts Payable Specialist, bringing with her a rich history of farm life, finance expertise and creative passion.
Renata grew up on a farrow-to-finish hog farm near Osage, Iowa, alongside her twin sister and three brothers. As farm kids, they were always busy helping with chores, from sorting hogs to baling hay. While most of her family eventually relocated to Kansas and settled into farming and other jobs, Renata stayed in Osage, where she began her career and raised her son, Justin.
Her path led her to meet her husband, Thom, in Mason City while working at a car dealership. They married last year, making for an eventful season as they celebrated three weddings in their family! Renata now has a blended family that includes Thom’s two children and a granddaughter, Khloe.
Professionally, Renata’s experience in accounts payable spans several years, including three years at Sukup Manufacturing and 23 years as an office manager in Osage. When she saw the opportunity at Latham Seeds, she was excited to join a company closer to home and has enjoyed the warm, close-knit environment here.
In addition to her work in finance, Renata is a talented photographer. Together with her husband, she owns RenaThom Art Vibe Photography, specializing in nature, wildlife and wedding photography. With a studio at home, Renata loves capturing special moments, especially during wedding days. She’s also a passionate quilter, cook, and artist, always finding creative ways to bring her talents to life.
We’re thrilled to have Renata on board and look forward to the expertise, dedication, and creativity she brings to our team. Please join us in welcoming her to Latham Seeds! And enjoy one of her favorite recipes for pecan pie with a twist.
Don Latham Honored as ISU’s Military Hero of the Game
In a special moment of gratitude in front of thousands of Cyclone fans, Don Latham, Vietnam veteran and former vice president of Latham Seeds, was honored as the Military Hero of the Game at Iowa State University’s football game on Sept. 21. This distinguished recognition is part of ISU’s ongoing Military Hero of the Game program, which celebrates the service and dedication of active-duty military and veterans.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Don Latham’s commitment to country extends back to his days as a U.S. Army officer during the Vietnam War. Serving from 1967 to 1969, Latham was tasked with responsibilities that required courage and leadership under incredibly challenging conditions. Reflecting on his service years later, he recalls both the friendships forged and the profound lessons that helped shape the way he approached leadership and innovation in business.
In 2021, Don shared his Vietnam experience in an interview, reflecting on the sacrifices made by his fellow servicemen and women, as well as the lasting impact it had on his life and career. He continues to serve others, not only through his work in agriculture but also through his advocacy for veterans’ causes.
ISU’s Military Hero of the Game Program
The Military Hero of the Game initiative at Iowa State University allows Cyclone Nation to pause and recognize the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. During halftime at each home game in Ames, Iowa, one veteran or active-duty service member is invited onto the field for a special presentation. This powerful moment highlights the service, courage and dedication of those who have defended our freedoms.
A Day of Celebration: The Latham Seeds Cyclone Tailgate
In a perfect alignment of celebration and gratitude, Don’s Hero of the Game award coincided with Latham Seeds’ annual Cyclone Tailgate, an event we look forward to every year as we gather with dealers, customers and friends. This tailgate is a Latham Seeds tradition, and this year’s festivities took on even greater meaning as we honored Don’s legacy — in the military and as a leader in the agricultural industry.
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds Announces Justin Prokosch as Sales Agronomist
Two days after his twin boys were born prematurely, Justin Prokosch started working at Latham Hi-Tech Seeds as a regional sales manager in South Central Minnesota. With two babies in the hospital and two older boys at home, Justin and his wife, Katie, weren’t sure what kind of first impression he’d be able to make at his new job.
They needn’t have worried. Justin quickly learned what working for a family-owned company really meant.
“The owners treat their employees and dealers like their own family and truly care about their customers,” he says. “We can go to the owners at any time and feel heard. Being able to work alongside the third generation is something you don’t see very often today.”
Six years (and one more boy later), Justin is moving from his RSM position to serve as Latham’s newest sales agronomist in the central and southern areas. It’s a perfect fit for Justin, who grew up on a century farm in Wabasso, Minn., only 1.5 miles from where his family lives now. At Southwest Minnesota State University, Justin majored in Ag Business and minored in Agronomy. Since he always had a passion for agriculture, those two areas of study made sense to him.
“Justin knows our products, understands good management practices and is committed to his new role to help our customers and dealers thrive,” says Amy Rohe, Latham’s sales manager. “His experience will serve us well as sales agronomist.”
Seeing how different products respond differently to certain situations — and helping dealers promote and place products with confidence — is something Justin is looking forward to in his new role. As an RSM, he says he could have used the support of a sales agronomist himself, to help bring a new perspective to his dealers’ operations and extend those relationships on an agronomic level.
“I am excited to really get to know their business,” Justin says. “I have grown a passion for product placement and product characteristics.”
Justin and Katie Prokosch have been married for 10 years and have five boys. Katie keeps their busy family going and volunteers on the local ambulance service. The boys love being outdoors, helping with farm chores, wrestling and playing baseball. Like their dad when he was growing up, the Prokosch boys also enjoy being a part of the local 4-H club and showing animals at the county fair.
When he isn’t chasing after his sons or participating in “whatever they are up to at any given time of the year,” Justin enjoys ice fishing and hunting pheasant and deer.
Here is a Prokosch family favorite recipe that keeps their whole crew warm.
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds Welcomes Michael Poppen as Regional Sales Manager
Michael Poppen has always been a “numbers guy” with a love of agriculture. It made sense, then, that he would earn a degree in Agricultural Economics — knowledge he has applied to his family’s farm operation in Wahpeton, N.D.. Now he can also put his studies to use as a Regional Sales Manager for Latham Hi-Tech Seeds, running numbers and helping Latham® dealers find the perfect planting equation for their fields.
“What I’m looking forward to the most is cultivating relationships with current and new dealers,” says Michael, who, along with his younger brother John, still works on the same farm that their dad grew up on. “Farmers in my area hold a wealth of knowledge, and I look forward to getting to work with them and hear their experiences.”
Michael has worked on Poppen Farms since he was very young, learning everything he could from his dad. Growing up, he enjoyed the smell of the dirt when they were planting and then taking care of the crops throughout the season. But Michael says some of his fondest memories are during harvest, when he and John spent long days in the field with their dad “taking off a good soybean crop.”
“Dad would always tell us, ‘This is an important job; we’re helping feed the world,’” Michael recalls. “Some people say farming is work – and it is, some days. But I like to also say it’s one of my favorite hobbies.”
Michael and his fiancé, Kaley, enjoy golfing, going to Twins games and taking their pup for walks in a nearby state park. Kaley holds a Doctorate in physical therapy and practices home health in town and the surrounding communities. She also cares for residents at a local nursing home.
When he isn’t working or farming, Michael likes to fish and hunt – especially mule deer in the Badlands of N.D. Before joining Latham Seeds, Michael worked for a seed, chemical and fertilizer company. He says he was drawn to Latham because it is an independent, family-owned business with an experienced “support system.”
“Being able to have direct access to the owners of the company is a huge benefit for someone in my shoes,” Michael says. “It gives me a sense of comfort knowing I have so many people in my corner.”
Here is a favorite Poppen family recipe that can feed a crowd.
In 2021, Don shared his Vietnam experience 
“I am excited to really get to know their business,” Justin says. “I have grown a passion for product placement and product characteristics.”
