Agriculture is built on dedication, resilience and grit — and women play a vital role in shaping its future. On National Women in Ag Day, we’re proud to highlight a few of the hardworking women in Latham Country who are making a difference every day.
Jamee Erger, Steph Paumen and Kerri Mattson work alongside their husbands and families as Latham®Dealers, helping farmers find the right products to maximize success in their fields. These women aren’t just partners in business; they are advocates for agriculture, community leaders and stewards of the land.
From continuing a family farm legacy to putting farmers first and living the four H’s of 4-H, their stories showcase the dedication and perseverance of women in agriculture.
Latham Seeds has always put our customers first by sourcing genetics and traits from multiple suppliers. Our priority is offering top genetics — with the traits Upper Midwest farmers need — at a competitive price. We’re committed to helping farmers grow their legacies while keeping rural communities strong, and we’re proud to market Latham products through a local farmer-dealer network.
We recognize some of our outstanding dealers by featuring them in our publications. This year’s seed guide cover features Jerry, Steph, and JP Paumen (pronounced Paw-men) of Dammann Seeds in Plato, Minnesota. Dammann Seed Sales in April 2024 celebrated 75 years of their family-owned seed business.
The parallels between Dammann Sales and Latham Seeds are quite remarkable. Jerry’s grandfather started the family business by conditioning and selling oats. When Jerry’s father returned to the farm after college, he focused on selling soybeans. Then in 1989, Jerry’s parents ventured into corn sales, which provided Jerry with an opportunity to come home.
The Paumens also are involved in their community, with Steph volunteering at school and at church. Jerry has served on the parochial school board, as well as coached baseball and trap. The couple belongs to the Minnesota Corn Growers and the Minnesota Soybeans Growers Associations. They also are active in numerous local conservation groups.
It is an honor to work alongside Latham dealers like the Paumens, and it’s a pleasure to work every day with multigenerational family farmers across the Upper Midwest. Like you, we appreciate the opportunity to carry on our family’s tradition of farmer helping farmer and neighbor helping neighbor. Thanks for all YOU do to keep rural America strong — and growing.
Chad Ingels is a dedicated pig farmer, conservation advocate and state legislator with deep roots in Fayette County, Iowa. Growing up on his family’s farm between Fayette and Maynard, Chad developed a strong work ethic and appreciation of agriculture from an early age. His love for farming was shaped by his parents and grandparents, who instilled in him the values of hard work and stewardship.
A Life Dedicated to Agriculture
Chad’s agricultural journey began as a member of 4-H, where he took on swine, horse and gardening projects. After graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Horticulture, he found himself drawn back to the family farm. Despite facing challenges, including the hog market crash of 1998, Chad’s determination to continue raising pigs never wavered.
He partnered with Niman Ranch to raise pigs the old-fashioned way — in bedded pens and outdoors — bringing his vision of sustainable and humane farming to life.
“Raising pigs in a non-confinement situation is labor intensive but rewarding,” Chad says. “Each year, Niman Ranch hosts a hog farmer appreciation dinner where their customers come together with a lot of the farmers. The gratitude the customers show is almost overwhelming in some respects. It is great to learn how they use the pork and the positive feedback they receive from their own customers, the consumers.”
Today, Chad raises corn, soybeans, oats and hay while also maintaining a sow herd. His dedication to conservation is evident in his no-till soybean practices, cover crop trials ahead of corn, and efforts to improve water quality. His partnership with Niman Ranch has been instrumental in sustaining his pig farming operation, providing him with the resources to continue farming responsibly and humanely.
Passion for Conservation
Chad’s commitment to conservation was sparked during his time with Iowa State Extension, where he worked on water quality improvement projects. Since then, he’s made significant strides on his own farm by implementing cover crops, no-till planting and split nitrogen applications.
“I think it’s important to be conservation-focused because it increases the resiliency of the soil during periods of drought or excessive rainfall,” Chad says, adding that conservation practices benefit the environment while supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.
Serving Iowa in the State Legislature
Since 2021, Chad has served in the Iowa State Legislature, representing parts of Fayette, Buchanan and Black Hawk counties. His involvement in local government began more than 20 years ago when he served on the West Central School Board. Today, Chad serves on several legislative committees, including Education, Health and Human Services; and Labor. He is also chairman of the Administrative Rules Committee and past chair of Veterans Affairs.
“Serving in the Legislature has been a great experience, and I am honored to represent my part of Iowa,” he says.
Chad remains deeply committed to advocating for Iowa farmers and promoting responsible land stewardship through policy and leadership.
A Family Tradition
Chad’s passion for agriculture and public service is shared with his wife, Tammy, whom he met in high school band, and their three children, Colton, Kameryn, and Cullen. The Ingels family continues to stay active in their community, from attending high school sports to participating in Special Olympics events. In his spare time, Chad enjoys gardening and officiating high school basketball.
As part of his commitment to tradition, Chad has shared a family favorite recipe for sausage casserole — a hearty dish that showcases his love for farm-raised pork.
Farming isn’t just a job for Joe DeVries — it’s a passion that took root on his family’s century farm just west of Chapin, Iowa. That’s where Joe learned early on the value of hard work, dedication and a love for the land. From raising his own ducks, turkeys and chickens as a young child to showing cattle at fairs across Midwest, Joe’s relationship with agriculture has always been a driving force in his life.
Active in 4-H and FFA, Joe served as both Chapter Treasurer and President while competing in numerous state-level contests. His love for cattle began at just five or six years old, when he started taking bucket calves to the fair, and continues today. Joe and his father Mark farm together, raising corn, soybeans, alfalfa and managing a beef cow/calf herd and feedlot.
While farming is his full-time focus, Joe is also committed to advocating for Iowa’s cattle industry. He works as the Northwest Iowa Member Services Advisor for the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, covering 22 counties. His dedication to the industry extends beyond work, as he recently completed a six-year term on the Franklin County Cattlemen Board and continues to serve on the Franklin County Extension Council.
Joe’s connection to Latham Seeds started long before he became a dealer. Farming just 10 miles away from Latham’s headquarters, he was aware of the company’s strong reputation. When approached in 2023 about joining the team, he was eager to give Latham a try.
“The products performed well for us in our first year with Latham,” Joe says. “I appreciate how they are a local company, but more importantly, a family-owned company.”
Though farming keeps Joe busy, he finds time to support his community and stay involved in cattle shows. His mother, Carma DeVries — who recently joined Latham Seeds as our new office manager — shares his passion for helping others, even assisting family friends with beef projects to provide opportunities for young exhibitors.
When Joe isn’t working in the fields or advocating for agriculture, he enjoys spending time with his “nephew” Waylan, who is the young son of a close friend. Watching Waylan develop his own love for farm life reminds Joe of his own childhood and fuels his passion for preserving the agricultural way of life for future generations.
“I enjoy having him ride with me in the tractor or come with me to check cows,” Joe says. “I enjoying seeing how he loves the farm life.
As part of his dealer spotlight, Joe is sharing a family favorite recipe for Spaghetti Pie. Enjoy this hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy farm families.
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.
