Latham Seeds Welcomes Noah Snedden as a District Sales Manager
As the second oldest of six boys growing up on an Iowa Century Farm near Ogden, Noah Snedden was always heavily involved in the family’s daily operations – whether it be in the fields or working on the cattle and hogs. Even the “not-so-fun-jobs” that he and his brothers got stuck with eventually turned into fond memories, he says.
“Being able to work and learn with your family is a special thing that we often take for granted,” Noah says.
His dad, Dan, farms around the Ogden area raising crops, hogs and a few cattle. His mom works for Alliant Energy. Noah’s brothers — Bryce (24), Ethan (22), Lane (19), Ben (11) and Jake (9) — have been active in the community through sports, 4-H and FFA Noah says his family’s involvement in showing cattle helped him develop a strong work ethic.
Noah Snedden’s FamilyNoah showing his younger brother Ben how to run the grain cart.
“The responsibility and work it takes to have livestock look their best to compete at county and state fairs is often overlooked,” Noah says. “Showing cattle taught me a lot about sacrifice and hard work. I will always be grateful for 4-H and FFA giving me those opportunities.”
Noah Snedden Showing Cattle
After high school, Noah completed the Agribusiness program at Des Moines Area Community College and then transferred to Iowa State University, where he graduated in 2022 with an Ag Studies degree.
Noah was attracted to the Latham Team earlier this fall because the company “checked a lot of boxes” for him as a family-owned business. He could tell the family aspect motivated Latham’s employees to work together – and for each other – every day.
“That was a great feeling, especially for someone coming right out of college,” he says. “On top of that, I appreciated being able to interact with our president, John Latham, at dealer field days and being able to talk with Shannon Latham, an Iowa House Representative, whenever I need something. You don’t see that in most companies. It’s pretty awesome to be a part of that.”
When he’s not covering his West Central Iowa region for Latham Seeds, Noah enjoys playing golf, watching his younger brothers play sports and being in the show barn with his family. He also loves to cheer on the Iowa State Cyclones, especially on Cy-Hawk game day.
Speaking of that, here’s a favorite tailgate recipe that Noah likes to share.
Gene Thormodsgaard raised his children two miles north of his family’s farm in Beresford, South Dakota, but he traveled thousands of miles before returning to the land and the lifestyle he has always loved.
After graduating from high school in 1960, Gene moved east for opportunity.
“My dad told me not to be a farmer, so I tried following his advice,” recalls Gene. “My brother and his friend were living in southern Illinois and working in the ironworks. They told me the pay was better out east, so I moved to Janesville, Wisconsin. I worked in Wisconsin for a year but realized factory life wasn’t for me. I moved home and went to work at the co-op. I really enjoyed working with farmers.”
Shortly thereafter, Gene was drafted into the United States Army. He served with the 724th maintenance battalion from 1964 to 1966 in southern Bavaria during the Vietnam War. He was a teletype operator with Company A of the 24th Infantry Division in Augsburg, Germany.
When his military service was complete, Gene returned to Bearsford. He started working once again at the co-op, delivering fuel to farmers. Gene also began farming rented ground in 1968. When one of his parents’ neighbors got hurt, Gene was given the chance to buy his farm. Gene bought his first farm at age 27.
Gene’s bachelor years consisted of working and farming until one life-changing evening when he and a buddy drove into Sioux Falls. They saw a couple of girls sitting at a table. Like the lyrics to Franki Valli’s 1967 hit, “Can’t take my eyes off of you,” Gene was drawn to Carol. The couple was married in 1974.
The newlyweds made their home on the farm Gene has purchased. They were blessed with two sons.
“Carol is an organizer extraordinaire,” says Gene with a smile. “She does so much for all of us.”
In 1975, Gene and his neighbors decided to buy Northrup-King seed together to save money. Back then, seed was delivered on a flatbed truck. The truck driver backed up to the barn, and every bag was manually unloaded.
“My NK rep made the move to Latham Seeds, and he encouraged me to try some,” says Gene. “I wasn’t getting the product I wanted from NK at the time, so I tried Latham® soybeans. They were great! When you pulled the rip cord, you didn’t see dust. There was nothing but pure seed inside a bag. Once my customers tried Latham, they didn’t want to plant anything else. It wasn’t long before Latham was all I sold. Latham remains the best quality seed on the market.”
Gene enjoys working with farmers and selling seed so much that he continues to operate his dealership. Like many good farmers, he won’t ever really retire. One of his neighbors began renting Gene and Carol’s farm ground in 2012, but Gene still helps him put in and take out the crop each year.
“I got into Latham because of the quality of the seed, but I’ve stayed with the company because of the quality and they are a great company to do business,” says Gene. “My RSM, Ramie Coughlin, is always there when I need her. She does an awesome job.”
In addition to selling seed and farming, Gene has been active in his community. He is a member of the VFW Legion. He served on Co-op Service Association at Bearsford for 12 years, and then he started serving on the board of the Eastern South Dakota Soil & Water Research Farm in Brookings. Gene was its treasurer for 30 years and remains an active board member. He served on the Lincoln County Conservation Board for 48 years. Gene is also active in his church and has served on church council. He has been a deacon and trustee, as well. When his children were young, Gene taught Sunday school. Gene’s wife Carol was involved in ladies aid as president and vice president through the years. She was involved as a Cub Scout leader and the Thormodsgaard family was awarded Cub Scout Family of the Year. Carol enjoys keeping up with landscaping and her flower gardens across the farm.
The Thormodsgaard’s oldest son, Tyson, is a senior software engineer for Lockheed Martin. His wife, Jenny, is a speech pathologist in Colorado Springs. Their 15-year-old son, Colin, has medaled in golf. Their 13 daughter, Annika, has earned two black belts in Tao Kwando. The Thormodsgaard’s youngest son, Trent, is an account rep for PartsDoctor.com. His wife Victorria is a registered nurse. She is the manager of the case management department at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls.
The Thormodsgaard FamilyTyson and Jenny ThormodsgaardTrent and Victorria Thormodsgaard
The Ride of His Life
Trent gave Gene, a race fan, the gift of driving a stock car at the racetrack in Newton, Iowa. Due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, the outing was postponed until August 2021. After two hours of instruction, Gene got behind the wheel.
“I was 79 when I crawled in there! You have to crawl through the window, and it’s really tight inside the car,” explains Gene. “My son thinks I was running 120 miles per hour around that truck. I didn’t dare put it to the floorboard! That was quite the experience and I sure enjoyed it. I met the nicest people there and became instant friends with a guy from Wisconsin, who attended the driving school with me.”
Gene and Carol enjoy unique experiences, which is one of the reasons they look forward to attending the annual Latham® Dealer Kickoff meetings. They also enjoy traveling as often as possible to visit their grandchildren in Colorado. They also enjoyed visiting Gene’s great aunt, who lived in Washington state. In loving memory of her, the Thormodsgaards are sharing a recipe that Aunt Hannah used to make when they visited her.
“This hearty salad is a great choice to brighten up a cool Midwest day, or a great way to cool down on a hot summer’s evening,” says Carol. “It especially good with a glass of white wine.”
This week college basketball teams and their loyal fans will travel to eight cities for 48 games during the first four-day weekend of America’s unofficial hoops holiday. They will then move to four cities for the Sweet 16 before arriving in New Orleans where the Final Four will run April 2-4.
We’re helping fans everywhere prepare with 10 themed recipes from our blog. Whether your favorite teams win or loses, you’ll always be a winner when you bring your “A Game” to the table! Good food makes the agony of defeat more bearable or the thrill of victory sweeter.
Iowans were thrilled on Selection Sunday, March 13, when both the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State University Cyclones were invited to The Big Dance. Fresh off a Big 10 Championship title, the University of Iowa Hawkeyes were given a 5-seed. The Hawks will play 12th-seeded Richmond Spiders, which also won its conference tournament, at 2:10 p.m. on March 17.
Iowa State University will play on Friday, March 17, at 6:20 p.m. After going 0-18 last season in the Big 12 and 2-22 overall, new head coach T.J. Otzelberger’s has led the Cyclones to their first NCAA tournament since 2019. The Cyclones will be an 11th-seed this year, matching up against the sixth-seeded Louisiana State University Tigers.
Throughout the basketball season, every free throw made by Iowa State University and University of Iowa, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds donated to the American Cancer Society through Coaches vs Cancer!
The 2022 Iowa State University Check Presentation.The 2022 University of Iowa Check Presentation.
Whether you want to cheer on your favorite teams while enjoying a St. Patrick’s Day feast, simple pub grub or southern comfort food, you’ll find it in our Game Day Recipe Roundup. Below are favorite recipes that were featured by Latham Seeds on “The Field Position:
Remember to tune into after the game to the Latham Locker Room Report on Cyclone Radio. The Latham Locker Room show is a post-game radio broadcast in which analysts, coaches and players share their thoughts on the game.
Spring is a time of new beginnings for farmers across the Upper Midwest. It was fitting that in April 2014 Matt Wyatt left his full-time job of 18 years as claims supervisor for Rain & Hail Agricultural Insurance to fully enjoy this new season of life.
Matt enjoys planting and harvesting crops without distractions including checking email frequently and fielding multiple phone calls related to crop insurance.
Frank Wyatt with son Matt Wyatt
“I like knowing I’ll be home every night, and I like working with my dad,” says Matt, the fourth generation of Wyatts to farm near Hudson in Northeast Iowa.
Matt and Frank raise corn and soybeans. They also have an early wean-to-finish pork operation. In addition, Frank has been a Latham® dealer since 1995. Matt joined the dealership in 2015.
Being alone with his thoughts for a good part of the day took some getting used to as Matt transitioned from his corporate job to farming full time. Now he enjoys spending time outside where the birds sing and his phone isn’t chirping incessantly. He can concentrate on doing the day’s job and planning for the future.
“Even if they don’t decide to pursue farming, I want my children to have an appreciation for the process,” adds Matt. “I want them to experience a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day, knowing the work that was done is all a part of something bigger.”
The Wyatt Family
Matt graduated in 1996 from Iowa State University (ISU) where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business with a minor in Agronomy. It’s also where he met his wife, Chelsea, who stays busy with her children’s school and community activities. The couple are the proud parents of two sons and a daughter: Cael, Aiden and Ava. Cael is a senior at ISU, majoring in Communication Studies. Aiden is a sophomore at ISU, majoring in Journalism. Ava is a high school junior, who is considering ISU for her future studies.
Active in the community, Chelsea organized the community soccer program and chaired the local parent-teacher association for several years. Matt helped coach the community’s youth wrestling program and served as a coach for Ava’s youth soccer team. Matt also has been president of the Gladbrook-Reinbeck School Board and is active in his local church. In addition, Matt and his father, Frank, are active in the Masonic Lodge.
In their free time, the Wyatts enjoy cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones and the Gladbrook-Reinbeck Rebels. Matt enjoys golfing, and Chelsea enjoys taking family vacations to the beach.
In honor of the pork they produce and the tropical vacations they enjoy, the Wyatts are sharing a family favorite recipe.
“It’s rare that I make the same thing twice, but this recipe is great for tailgating and entertaining,” says Chelsea. “You can whip it up the night before, it feeds a lot of people and is always a hit!
Three Generations of Franklin County Farmers Raise Latham Seed Beans
Producing corn, soybeans and pork on a farm is commonplace in Iowa, where livestock feed has been the primary use of grain crops throughout that state’s 175-year history. Families, like the Jacobsens of Dows in Franklin County, are proud of their farming legacy.
The Jacobsen Family
Doug and Carolyn Jacobsen began growing seed beans for Latham Seeds in the 1970s. Their Iowa Century Farm is located one mile from where their son, Corey, and his wife, Kim, farm. Corey began growing seed beans in 1986 when he rented his first farm. Corey and Kim’s oldest son, a fifth generation Iowa farmer, began growing Latham seed beans in 2018.
“I appreciate the opportunity to raise Latham seed beans because most years we get access to newer genetics a year earlier than if we raised soybeans just commercially. I like seeing what’s new in the lineup,” says Corey. “It’s fun visiting with everybody in the fall when we deliver beans to the plant. Plus, it’s nice to know we can pick up the phone or stop by the office whenever we have questions about production or want input.”
Corey has been working toward his goal of farming since he graduated from high school. While studying ag business at Iowa State University (ISU), he helped plant four crops and maintained his breeding-to-finish swine operation. Corey traveled home each weekend to do chores and made countless other trips whenever needed for breeding or farrowing.
“I met Corey at the 1985 Franklin County Fair where he was showing pigs and I was working in the Extension office,” says Kim, who grew up on a farm south of Coulter and enjoyed showing horses in 4-H. It’s only natural their three sons would become showmen.
When Corey graduated from ISU in 1990, he began working at Brenton Bank in Clarion. One year later he started at Dows United Bank & Trust. Corey retired as bank president in 2000, and then he and Kim began farming full time. Kim also retired after teaching high school math and coaching volleyball and track for 10 years at Clarion-Goldfield Dows. Their more flexible schedules allowed their family to spend more time on their pork operation.
“Pork is truly a family project that we all enjoy,” says Kim. She and Corey custom-finished pigs for years and raised show pigs. Now they run an independent wean-to-finish operation. “Raising livestock taught our boys day-to-day responsibility that many other activities can’t provide. They learned that it takes teamwork to be successful and to accomplish what needs to be done.”
When their boys were in middle and high school, the Jacobsen family participated several livestock shows annually including: the Iowa State Fair, Ak-Sar-Ben, World Pork Expo, National Barrow Show, Sioux Empire in South Dakota, Iowa State University’s Block & Bridle, as well as numerous county and state 4-H and FFA shows. Ben had the honor of showing the Reserve Champion FFA Market Hog at the 2013 Iowa State Fair.
“Through 4-H, our boys learned skills they use on the farm also such as welding, woodworking, small engines, along with the communication and record keeping,” says Kim. “Now that they’ve all graduated from high school, I love to see our sons use their skills and continue to educate others about agriculture. Caleb won the Outstanding Agriculture Exhibit by ISU College of Agriculture and Life Science at the Iowa State Fair for his project teaching the truth of GMO’s. Matt is known as the ‘farm kid’ and go-to resource at college. He has skills in welding, woodworking, painting and general carpentry that most other students do not have. He laughs at all of this, especially the time he was a hero changing a gas tank on a gas grill, much to the amazement and awe of others. He also educates classmates and others in the city about livestock and agriculture.”
Matthew will graduate in May 2022 from Harvard College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with a degree in Molecular and Neurological Biology. He has been a part of the Harvard Curling Club, John Adams debate society and Harvard Pro-Life while keeping up with research projects. Matthew plans to continue research for another year and then attend medical school.
The Jacobsen’s youngest son, Caleb, is a freshman majoring in Ag business at Iowa State University. He enjoys being active in the Ag Business Club and the SALT network through Cornerstone Church. Caleb is following the steps of his oldest brother, Ben, who graduated from ISU in 2018 with a degree in ag business. Ben farms with Corey and Kim. Frances is a Talent and Acquisition Specialist for Boston Scientific, working from their home in Ames. They are expecting their first child in June.
“We feel blessed to have our children grow up on the farm learning the value of honesty, hard work and sacrifice to accomplish goals,” says Kim. “Now the next generation will grow up farming in a community that has been so supportive. We couldn’t ask for anything more.”
During this time of transition, Corey and Kim are freeing up their schedules to make more time for travel. Corey had served on the Dows school board for 20 years and retired when the school district merged. Kim has relinquished most of her off-farm obligations but continues to serve on the Iowa Specialty Hospital Board. They enjoy following the Iowa State Cyclones to Bowl games and other destinations. They have greatly enjoyed making spontaneous trips and have especially enjoyed visiting Matt in Boston.
“We love traveling, trying restaurants, experiencing other cultures and visiting farming operations in other places,” says Kim. Today they’re sharing with us one of their favorite game day recipes of Sausage and Cheese Egg Roll Wraps.
With 19 returning starters from last year’s Fiesta Bowl championship team and a #7 ranking in the Associated Press’ preseason poll, Iowa State University (ISU) fans are fired up for the Cyclones’ season opener on Sept. 4. Another highly anticipated game will be played Sept. 11 as part of the annual Cy-Hawk Series.
There have been years – more years than most Cyclone fans want to admit – when the only things that got fired up on Game Day were grills. Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds’ General Manager Ryan and Meg Schon started honing their tailgating skills 25 years ago when their favorite team didn’t have a hope of post-season play, and “Tailgate Victoriously” became their rally cry.
Among the sea of pickup trucks and campers parked near Jack Trice Stadium, you’ll find creative tailgating vehicles like converted school buses and repurposed ambulances. This year marks the fourth season that Latham® Seeds Dealer Sean Waldstein will host family members and friends for tailgates before the Cyclone football games in a converted ambulance.
This year marks the fourth season that Latham® Seeds Dealer Sean Waldstein will host family members and friends for tailgates before the Cyclone football games in a converted ambulance.
“This year is an exciting step forward for ISU football,” says Sean Waldstein, who grew up cheering for Iowa State as both of his parents are alumni.
Retro logos add flare to the Waldstein tailgate ambulance.
After graduating in 2000 from Sioux Central High School, Sean attended classes at ISU where he completed his undergrad studies in Exercise Science. He volunteered for the ISU football strength program and completed an internship at the University of Wyoming in its strength program. He went on to earn his master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Iowa State. While attending Iowa State, Sean met his wife, Amanda, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from ISU and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Drake University.
The newly married couple made their home in Urbandale, Iowa, where Sean worked as a strength coach for Drake University and then ISU. In 2013, they moved near Lincoln, Nebraska, where Sean worked in corporate wellness and Amanda was able to stay home. In 2017, Sean and Amanda decided to raise their children near family and moved back to Sean’s hometown in Northwest Iowa. Amanda works as a Salesforce administrator / business analyst, and Sean farms with his dad. The Waldstein family grows corn and soybeans, as well as raises pigs.
Retro logos add flare to the Waldstein tailgate ambulance.
In addition, Sean works as a substitute teacher and coaches junior high girls basketball. He drives the bus mostly for the teams he coaches and helps with the school’s weight program. Sean and Amanda are the proud parents of two daughters and one son. Their oldest daughter, Ryleigh, is a freshman in high school and a four-sport athlete. Peyton is in sixth grade, and Evan is in third grade. This active family especially enjoys water sports all summer long.
“Water skiing, barefoot, solemn and wakeboarding… you name it, we do it!” says Sean.
Summer fun transitions into the fall tailgating season. Although Sean wasn’t looking for a tailgating vehicle, the opportunity presented itself.
“The guy who spreads our hog manure had used the ambulance as a service vehicle, but the ambulance no longer fit his needs,” says Sean. After striking a deal for the ambulance, Sean and Amanda got to work on making it suit their needs.
The first tailgating season they painted the outside of the ambulance and cleaned up the inside. The next season they added the 1983 and 1984 Cy logos on the outside. Most recently, a hitch was added to be able to transport a griddle.
Inside the retrofitted Waldstein tailgate ambulance.
“One of my cousins lives in Ames, so we take the ambulance down to her place for the season. On Game Day, our family and my cousin’s family all pile into the ambulance and head to the tailgate,” says Sean. “The ambulance has made tailgating so much more enjoyable because it stores all of our equipment. We don’t have to hassle with unloading tables, chairs, a tent and grill once we get home.”
The whole family piles into the ambulance on Game Day!
In celebration of the fall football season, today Sean is sharing with us one of his family’s favorite tailgating recipes for Pickle Wrap Dip. We’re also linking to several other Game Day recipes, so you can celebrate the season whether you’re sitting on a tailgate in a farm field during fall harvest or outside your favorite football field.
This often-cited comment isn’t just a favored figure of speech. A 2013 published study proved that people involved in long-distance relationships had more meaningful interactions than those who saw each other daily.
While I prefer seeing those I love frequently, perhaps the adage best applies to Iowans’ love affair with the Iowa State Fair.
Sunset at the iconic Iowa State Fair
After its absence last year, one of our nation’s most iconic events returns Aug 12-22.
Call it a hunch, but my gut tells me the crowds will be enormous.
This will be my 25th fair in 26 years. After teetering on state fair burnout at the close of the 2019 edition, I’m ready and waiting for the gates to open and the canon sound 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 12.
America Needs Farmers artwork at the Iowa State Fair
Once again, I’m relishing thoughts of riding the sky glide, walking the cattle barn, navigating the Grand Concourse, sampling corn dogs, hot beef sundaes, and deep fried deviled eggs (check out the latter at the Cluck ‘n Coop tucked just inside the Midway operated by my friend Shon Bruellman).
I’m also looking forward to advocating once again for farmers during the 11-day event. The number of state fair visitors routinely tops one million. Most who walk the grounds have little to no connection to agriculture.
The Iowa Food & Family Project (Iowa FFP) returns to the southeast atrium of the Varied Industries Building. It’s our 10th year in the location. Given roughly 250,000 fairgoers pass through the atrium annually, simple math tells me we’ve rubbed elbows with almost 2.5 million people.
Rooster at the Iowa State Fair
The impact has been measurable. Each fair, we add thousands of new fans to Iowa FFP’s audience. In addition to having an appetite for state fair cuisine, they hunger for candid and accurate information about the food they eat, how it’s grown and who grows it. The Iowa FFP is an open book about food, family and farming. We welcome the interest people have in all things food-related, from the simple (no, chocolate milk doesn’t come from brown cows!) to the complicated (yes, genetic modification is a good thing).
Those who sign up to engage with Iowa FFP receive farm-fresh information about modern agriculture via a
combination of our e-newsletter, popular Fresh Pickings Magazine (published quarterly) and social media offerings. Not only does the audience stick, but surveys show that those engaged with the Iowa FFP are 6% more trusting of modern agriculture than the general public.
Aaron Putze, APR, serves as the Sr. Dir., Information and Education for the Iowa Soybean Association. He was raised on a farm near West Bend and lives in Waukee with his wife Crystal and children Garrett, Grant and Jaelyn.
Given it’s our 10th fair, we’re going back to how it all began. In August 2010, our first exhibit featured numerous ag-centric creations made entirely out of canned and packaged food items. In 2021, we’re constructing a larger-than-life tribute to Iowa farmers. It will again be built entirely of canned and packaged food. While I’m not about to spill the beans on what we’ll be constructing, rest assured that you’ll leave the exhibit knowing that our food, land and future is in good hands because of the dedication of Iowa’s farm families.
But that’s not the only place the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) will have a presence. In addition to joining with Iowa’s commodity organizations to bring the Iowa FFP exhibit to life, biodiesel made from soybeans will power the state fair trams. Children participating in the super-popular Little Hands on the Farm will learn how soybeans are grown while visitors to the Ag Building will have the opportunity to visit with soybean farmers on select days. ISA is also helping support the volunteers who will be caring for the pigs, poults and turkeys fairgoers will ooh and awe at in the Animal Learning Center.
Absence might make the heart grow fonder but coming together is the best way to connect people who don’t farm with those who do.
And, so it will be again this year at the Iowa State Fair. I for one can’t wait.
What do you do when company unexpectedly arrives? Scott and Cindy Rasmussen of Burt, Iowa, keep food on hand that can be fixed quickly, which makes entertaining fun and easy. Now that their three children have families of their own, their freezer and pantry are filled with treats and snacks their grandkids also will enjoy.
“Our approach is to keep it simple. We prep food ahead of time, so we can enjoy more time with our friends and family when they arrive,” says Cindy, who works part-time off the farm for an attorney and also helps with field work during the spring and fall.
The Rasmussen Family
Scott, the other half of this husband-wife team, shares one of their entertaining secrets. Ziploc® freezer bags filled with Rye Bread Appetizers and Party Pretzels are a quick fix when company arrives. It’s a trick they used as their kids were growing up, and it’s still their secret weapon now that they have eight grandchildren.
“All of our kids were very active in high school with sports and extracurricular activities like 4-H,” says Scott, who served as 4-H club leader for 11 years and coached their AAU basketball teams. Cindy was a Sunday School teacher and Scott served as a trustee. They both served as T-ball coaches when their kids were young.
Adds Cindy, “It took some planning, especially during spring and fall, but we really wanted our kids to experience life outside of farming, choose their own paths, and earn a four-year degree. Now our kids help us farm during the busy seasons.”
The Rasmussen’s oldest son, Noah, graduated from Algona High School in 2000. Upon earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University (ISU), he began working for John Deere in Urbandale. He and his wife, Rachel, live with their three daughters near Cambridge. Noah helps his parents stay informed about advanced technology and has been known to pull an all-nighter to help on the farm in the fall. Rachel graduated from ISU with a master’s in public administration and works in human relations.
The Rasmussen’s second son, Drew, graduated from high school in 2005. He earned a degree in Industrial Systems Technology (Ag Systems Technology) with a minor in safety from ISU and works for AGP as a compliance officer. Drew farms with his parents and looks forward to farming on his own someday. Drew and his wife, Sierra, built a home on the farm place where Scott was raised. Scott’s parents also live on the homeplace, so Drew and Sierra help them as needed. The couple has twins (a boy and a girl), and Sierra also works for the Farm Service Agency.
The Rasmussen’s daughter, Chelsie, graduated from high school in 2007. She earned a degree in psychology from the University of Iowa. She and her husband, Tom, purchased an acreage that was homesteaded in 1877 by Scott’s family. Their acreage is located between Drew and Sierra’s home and Scott and Cindy’s home, so they all live within three miles of each other. Chelsie works as a physical therapist assistant in Algona, and the couple has two daughters and a son.
“There is so much family history here, and we feel blessed that our children are committed to preserving it,” says Cindy. “It is wonderful to have everyone close by. It makes it easier for them to help on the farm as their schedules allow. Tom is not only our insurance agent, but he has taken over many tasks. Like Drew, Tom helps us work ground, pick up rocks, and runs the grain cart in the fall. Their help has allowed me to spend more time with grandchildren.”
When their children were growing up, the Rasmussens had a farrow-to-finish operation in addition to their cropping operation. When hog prices went to $8 in 2000, Scott was determined to find a way to make up for lost income. He worked at Aluma Trailers in Bancroft around his farming schedule. After a year of working at Aluma, Scott’s dad retired from farming. Scott continued working part-time and farmed additional acres. Then in 2008, he converted the barn into a heated shop where he enjoys maintaining his line of farm equipment and woodworking especially during the winter months.
Surround Yourself with Good People
“I really enjoyed working at Aluma and my boss was really good to me,” says Scott. “He was one person who really helped make a difference. Cindy and I have really been blessed by the people who have helped us along the way.”
Other people who made a difference for Scott and Cindy are the farm manager of the Stockwell Memorial Farm, who helped them start farming on their own; an elderly neighbor who chose Scott to farm his land when he decided to retire; and Bill and Linda Latham who chose Scott to farm their land near Burt, Iowa.
“As we have gotten older, we reflect on the people who made a difference in our life. Bill and Linda Latham are two of those people. We could feel Bill’s passion for his work, his family and the seed industry. Of course, behind every good man is a great woman!” says Scott.
“I would also like to express my total appreciation for all the little things that Latham Seeds does for its customers and dealers,” adds Scott. “Latham goes above and beyond, that is what sets this company apart from the others. I always get an answer from a real person, so I’m not caught in a telephone nightmare or waiting on hold. To all the Latham family and employees, thank you!”
“We’ve learned to surround ourselves with good people, and that’s one of the reasons we enjoy working with Latham Seeds,” says Scott. “The company is filled with good people. I know that I can call the office and be connected to someone who has the answer to my question. I really enjoy Latham’s personal service, plus Latham® products really perform well.”
During the growing season, the Rasmussens enjoy making time for fishing, boating and attending their grandchildren’s activities. The couple also enjoys antiquing, refinishing and repurposing furniture in their leisure. They turned a cabinet into a buffet to camouflage a dorm-sized refrigerator. They also put locking wheels on an island in their kitchen, which readily extends their kitchen counter space if they want to set up a buffet line. Both items make entertaining easy.
Today the Rasmussens are sharing a family-favorite Taco Dip recipe to help you spend less time in the kitchen and more time socializing with friends and family. Or freeze Party Pretzels, so you can grab a bag to take in the tractor cab or the fishing boat.
Spring Calves, Summer Camping & Milestone Celebrations
Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. Now that their four daughters have finished school for the academic year, Tyler and Michelle Sandven are kicking into high gear to make time for their favorite activities including grilling, camping and riding motorcycles.
Oldest daughters, Sydnie and Rylie, are members of 4-H and FFA. They enjoy showing cattle and riding horses. In addition, they have summer jobs at the fitness center. Syndie is a 2021 graduate of Humboldt High School. She plans to attend Iowa Central Community College to become a medical assistant. Rylie will be a junior in high school. Twins Kylan and Kynlie will turn 10 years old at the end of this month.
The Sandven Family
“It takes a lot of energy to keep up with four active girls! I lost 30 pounds and gained my energy and health back with the Yoli® program. After my success with the all-natural system, I became a health coach in 2018,” says Michelle, who is a licensed cosmetologist and works two days a week at the American Barbershop in Humboldt.
The Sandvens also farm.
“We feel fortunate to raise our family where they’re sure to develop a good work ethic,” says Tyler. “Our girls really enjoy the animals and helping with chores. When they were younger, they enjoyed riding in the cab of the tractor while the cattle are being fed. They also like helping bottle feed the calves.”
Having a family who shares his love of agriculture makes this Iowa farmer proud.
“Farming is all I ever wanted to do,” says Tyler, who was raised on a diversified farm in Humboldt County. After graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Ag Business, he was eager to return to the family’s farming operation.
Together with his dad and his brother, Tyler raises cow-calf pairs and has a feeder-to-finish cattle operation. The family also raises horses, which his father especially enjoys riding. Tyler, on the other hand, prefers to ride something with a motor. “Hanging loose in Hawaii” by riding a Harley across Maui during a Latham Seeds’ dealer trip is one of Tyler and Michelle’s favorite memories.
“I like working with a family-owned seed business whose owners share a lot of our same values,” says Tyler, who has been a Latham® dealer since 2007. He appreciates having a solid lineup to sell of corn, soybeans and alfalfa. He encourages farmers to plant a minimum of three different Latham brand corn or soybean products with a mixture of offensive and defensive traits. He also recommends mixing maturities to further reduce risk.
Tyler and Michelle also look forward to attending Latham Dealer meetings throughout the summer and into the fall. Another annual event they look forward to is Latham’s tailgate at an Iowa State football game. The Sandvens enjoy cheering on the Cyclones every chance they get!
In celebration of summer growing season and May Beef Month, today the Sandven family is sharing with us one of their favorite recipes for garlic steak bites. This recipe can be served as an appetizer or paired with side dishes to become a meal.
Spring Calves, Summer Camping & Milestone Celebrations
Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. Now that their four daughters have finished school for the academic year, Tyler and Michelle Sandven are kicking into high gear to make time for their favorite activities including grilling, camping and riding motorcycles.
Oldest daughters, Sydnie and Rylie, are members of 4-H and FFA. They enjoy showing cattle and riding horses. In addition, they have summer jobs at the fitness center. Syndie is a 2021 graduate of Humboldt High School. She plans to attend Iowa Central Community College to become a medical assistant. Rylie will be a junior in high school. Twins Kylan and Kynlie will turn 10 years old at the end of this month.
The Sandven Family
“It takes a lot of energy to keep up with four active girls! I lost 30 pounds and gained my energy and health back with the Yoli® program. After my success with the all-natural system, I became a health coach in 2018,” says Michelle, who is a licensed cosmetologist and works two days a week at the American Barbershop in Humboldt.
The Sandvens also farm.
“We feel fortunate to raise our family where they’re sure to develop a good work ethic,” says Tyler. “Our girls really enjoy the animals and helping with chores. When they were younger, they enjoyed riding in the cab of the tractor while the cattle are being fed. They also like helping bottle feed the calves.”
Having a family who shares his love of agriculture makes this Iowa farmer proud.
“Farming is all I ever wanted to do,” says Tyler, who was raised on a diversified farm in Humboldt County. After graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Ag Business, he was eager to return to the family’s farming operation.
Together with his dad and his brother, Tyler raises cow-calf pairs and has a feeder-to-finish cattle operation. The family also raises horses, which his father especially enjoys riding. Tyler, on the other hand, prefers to ride something with a motor. “Hanging loose in Hawaii” by riding a Harley across Maui during a Latham Seeds’ dealer trip is one of Tyler and Michelle’s favorite memories.
“I like working with a family-owned seed business whose owners share a lot of our same values,” says Tyler, who has been a Latham® dealer since 2007. He appreciates having a solid lineup to sell of corn, soybeans and alfalfa. He encourages farmers to plant a minimum of three different Latham brand corn or soybean products with a mixture of offensive and defensive traits. He also recommends mixing maturities to further reduce risk.
Tyler and Michelle also look forward to attending Latham Dealer meetings throughout the summer and into the fall. Another annual event they look forward to is Latham’s tailgate at an Iowa State football game. The Sandvens enjoy cheering on the Cyclones every chance they get!
In celebration of summer growing season and May Beef Month, today the Sandven family is sharing with us one of their favorite recipes for garlic steak bites. This recipe can be served as an appetizer or paired with side dishes to become a meal.
