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.
Celebrating the Holidays With Latham Hi-Tech Seeds
At Latham Seeds, we believe the holidays aren’t just about festive decorations and delicious food — they’re about celebrating the people who make this company feel like family. That’s why every December, our tradition of a holiday potluck takes center stage. And since National Ugly Sweater Day always falls in the mix, we encourage our team to dig deep into their closets (or their sense of humor!) and don their boldest holiday attire for the occasion.
This year’s ugly sweater celebration didn’t disappoint! From garish Grinches to light-up beachside Santas, the creativity brought many laughs. Of course, the potluck table was piled high with family recipes, each dish a reminder of the care and pride this team brings to every corner of their lives, both personal and professional.
One of the most heartwarming parts of our holiday potluck, though, isn’t the sweaters or even the incredible food — it’s the tradition of giving each Latham Seeds employee a handcrafted ornament. For years, our Site Manager, Rod Fesenmeyer, has been the mastermind behind these unique keepsakes. Each wooden ornament is carefully designed and made by Rod himself, serving as a lasting reminder of the bond we share as a team. The ornaments are different every year, making them as special and unique as the people who receive them. It’s this kind of thoughtfulness and care that reflects the heart of Latham Seeds: family-first values and a commitment to making every team member feel appreciated.
But what’s a potluck without a dish that steals the show? This year, Carma DeVries’ famous macaroni salad was the undisputed champ. Creamy, savory, and downright irresistible, it had everyone lining up for seconds. Carma is sharing her recipe with us today!
And so, as we gather this holiday season in ugly sweaters and good cheer, we’re reminded of how lucky we are to be part of such a supportive and close-knit team. From all of us at Latham Seeds, we wish you and yours a holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and traditions that bring people together — ugly sweaters optional!
Meet Derrick Schulte: Latham Seeds’ New District Sales Manager
Latham Seeds is excited to introduce Derrick Schulte as our newest District Sales Manager! Derrick brings a wealth of agricultural experience, a passion for seed and a deep commitment to community, all of which will serve him well as he steps into this important role.
Derrick’s roots run deep in agriculture. He grew up on a small family farm outside of Norway, Iowa, where he was no stranger to farm life. From bailing hay and raising livestock to participating in 4-H and FFA, Derrick was immersed in the world of farming from an early age. His leadership skills flourished when he served as a senior class officer, which inspired him to pursue a career in sales management.
“I knew early on that I wanted to be a District Sales Manager,” Derrick shares. “Agriculture has always been a part of my life, and I’ve always had a passion for helping people grow.”
Derrick hails from a long line of hardworking farmers. His dad was a fifth-generation farmer, and his great-grandfather was known for having one of the first registered Hereford hogs in the region. Though his dad passed away in 2017, Derrick’s two older brothers, his mom and his sister now carry on the family farming legacy, raising beef cattle and row crops.
Derrick’s connection to Latham Seeds runs through his sister and brother-in-law, Sara and Shawn Kreutner, who are active Latham® Dealers in Northern Benton County.
“Through my brother-in-law’s experience as a Latham dealer, I learned about Latham Seeds and was impressed by the company’s commitment to quality and service,” Derrick says.
Derrick holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Studies from Iowa State University, and his background in agriculture, combined with his passion for seed, makes him an ideal fit for the DSM role with Latham Seeds. Derrick is excited to meet and build relationships with the dealer network, helping growers find the perfect seed for their operations.
“I look forward to growing the Latham Seeds brand and using my experience to provide top-notch service to our dealers,” Derrick says. “Helping our customers find the right fit for their acres is what I’m most excited about.”
When he’s not working, Derrick enjoys attending ISU events and going to live music concerts with his girlfriend, Abby Martin.
Join us in welcoming Derrick to the team, and enjoy one of his family’s favorite recipes for blueberry zucchini bread!
Cyclone History in the Making: Latham Locker Room Report Brings Fans Closer to ISU’s Championship Journey
For the first time in its 133-year history, Iowa State University’s football team has achieved 10 regular season wins — an achievement Cyclone Nation won’t soon forget. This remarkable season has secured the No. 16 Cyclones a spot in the Big 12 Championship game this Saturday in Arlington, Texas, where they’ll face the No. 12 Arizona State Sun Devils in a historic matchup.
Saturday’s game marks Iowa State’s second appearance in the Big 12 Championship, with their first dating back to 2020.
That game ended in a close 27-21 loss to Oklahoma, but the Cyclones have grown stronger and more determined since then. A victory this Saturday would not only solidify this as one of the greatest seasons in program history but also cement the Cyclones’ place in college football’s elite tier.
For Latham Seeds, supporting Iowa State football goes far beyond game day pride — it’s about fostering the same dedication and commitment that drives both our company and the Cyclone team. As a proud sponsor of Iowa State Athletics, Latham Seeds is thrilled to bring fans exclusive post-game insights through the Latham Locker Room Report, which airs on the Cyclone Radio Network after every game. The Latham Locker Room Report provides fans with interviews from players and coaches, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the Cyclones’ journey.
This Saturday’s championship game promises to deliver unforgettable moments, and we’re excited to bring fans coverage straight from Arlington. Whether you’re cheering from Texas or tuning in from home, let’s show our Cyclone pride and support the team as they battle for the Big 12 title.
Here’s to making history — Go Cyclones! And here’s to also making an easy tailgate or party snack with this recipe from one of our favorite growers!
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.
