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An AgCarolina Financial Member Publication—October 2008 Leader Donnie and Luke Blizzard Share Love for Farming and Hunting and Whitetail Deer, too! Explore North Carolina Must-See Signature Fall Events in North Carolina Scholars for 2008-09

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Page 1: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

An AgCarolina Financial Member Publication—October 2008An AgCarolina Financial Member Publication—October 2008

Leader

Donnie and Luke BlizzardShare Love for Farming and Hunting and Whitetail Deer, too!

Explore North Carolina Must-See Signature Fall Events in North Carolina

Scholars for 2008-09

Page 2: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

800-951-3276www.agcarolina.com

There Were LOTS of Reasons Why I Borrowed From

AgCarolina Financial“ When I needed an operating loan for farm land that I

tend along with my dad and two uncles, I called on our AgCarolina Financial loan officer, who’s been working with my family since I was a little boy. AgCarolina Financial has been a valuable resource to the success of our family farming operation.”

Noah Burgess Young Farmer/3000-acre Family Operation Northampton County

Page 3: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

Contents

is published quarterly for stockholders, friends, and business associates of AgCarolina Financial.

PRESIDENTEugene Charville

BOARD OF DIRECTORSDick Tunnell, ChairmanEldridge T. Westbrook, Vice ChairmanEdward BissetteLynn DalyPaul DrakeRalph EllingtonJack Finley

Stephen I. HarrisCliff KeelAudie MurphyStuart PierceStanley Roberson, Jr.Thomas SniderEllis W. Taylor

EDITOR & MARKETING MANAGERLinda Strickland

PUBLIShERAgFirst Farm Credit Bank

PUBLIShING DIRECTORDonna Camacho

DESIGNERSAthina Eargle, Darren Hill, Amanda Simpson, Travis Taylor

PRINTERSpectra True Colour

CIRCULATIONKathi DeFlorio

If you have any questions or ideas for the editorial staff of the Leader, contact Linda Strickland at 800-951-3276, e-mail her at [email protected] or write her at AgCarolina Financial, 4000 Poole Road, Raleigh, NC 27610. This publication is for you, our reader. We’d love to hear from you!

An AgCarolina Financial Member Publication

October 2008

Holiday ScheduleThe offices of AgCarolina Financial will be closed in observance of the following holidays:

November 11 Veteran’s Day

November 27-28 Thanksgiving

December 24 All offices will close at Noon

December 25 Christmas

Mission Statement

To improve the quality of life on farms and in rural areas of eastern North Carolina through a financially strong cooperative structure and a commitment to provide competitive lending and financial services, ensuring a feeling of partnership with our customers.

Vision Statement

We will strive to be the customer’s first choice for service and reliability; providing sound, constructive credit and financial services with emphasis on customer service and increasing customer wealth.

Strengthening Farmers and Rural America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

State Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Explore North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Donnie and Luke Blizzard . . . . . . . . 10

Spotlighting our Scholars for . . . . . . 12 2008-09

New Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

AgCarolina Financial–Supporter of . . 18 Progressive Agriculture Safety Days

Grant Applications Being Accepted . . 18

AgCarolina Hosts Financial . . . . . . . 18 Seminars

Organic vs. Conventional Debate . . . 19

Life Insurance Planning Can . . . . . . 20 Rescue the Farm

Customer Appreciation Events . . . . . 21

Get Ready to Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Second Quarter Financials . . . . . . . . 23

Mission Statement

Page 4: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

AgCarolina Financial…Strengthening Farmers and Rural America

North Carolina agriculture relies on a strong rural economy. In order to thrive, our communities need better and more

reliable access to the capital that will support new investments. Investments in rural areas support farmers, necessary community facilities, and infra-structure improvements.

At AgCarolina Financial, we make the bulk of our loans to farmers; from long-term farm and home loans to intermediate-term loans for buildings, machinery, and other farm equipment. Or, it could be to buy land, construction, livestock, and improvements. There are also short-term loans to cover the full- or part-time farmers’ production expenses during the growing season. And loans can also be obtained to, but are not limited to, finance automobiles and trucks, educational expenses, home improvements, vacation expenses, and much more.

But as part of our effort to meet the credit needs of farmers, we have also financed a sod farm, a day care center, a hunting preserve, a custom wood construction firm, and a sweet potato processing facility! Farmers in eastern North Carolina have also needed financing for a car wash, a board stud facility, a mini-storage unit, a meat packing facility, and for constructing modular homes and classrooms.

By investing in activities that sustain, revitalize, and develop rural communities, AgCarolina helps keep farmers on the land as well as attract new families to rural areas. Yes, funding from AgCarolina can be used for more that just the farm related needs of our customers.

At AgCarolina Financial, we believe in investing for our future. The success of farm families and American agriculture depends to a large extent on having strong, supportive rural communities. Today, many farm families depend upon an off-farm job for income to supplement its farming operation. As a result, farmers are more dependent than ever upon the economic health of their rural communi-ties for markets for their products, farm-related

goods and services, and high-quality education and public services for their families.

AgCarolina Financial can make loans possible for these vital services through ag loans and our new Investments in Rural Communities program. The Farm Credit System, of which AgCarolina Financial is a part, established the Investments in Rural Communities program to help meet the ever-expanding and changing needs of agricultural enterprises, agribusinesses, and rural communities by providing a flow of money to rural areas.

Agriculture depends on rural communities to support the related businesses and markets critical to their farming success but also to provide off-farm employment critical for the economic success of many farm families. Unfortunately, rural communi-ties often lag behind metropolitan areas in essential infrastructure, services and facilities, in areas such as transportation, health care, education, and others that would attract employment and economic opportunities to rural areas.

In the Farm Credit Act, Congress specifi-cally recognized the role of FCS in providing “an adequate and flexible flow of money into rural areas.” Together with extensive analysis from a variety of academic, governmental, and independent research services, a clear need has been established for greater capital resources in rural America. The ability of the Farm Credit System to help meet this need through a Rural Community Investment program has also been documented.

While we will always maintain our focus on providing loans to farmers, we hope to find ways to provide financing that will help invigorate rural areas of eastern North Carolina. Contact your loan officer or one of our twelve conveniently located Branch offices for details on how we might assist with your financing needs. n

4 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Message from the president

Eugene Charville

At AgCarolina Financial,

we believe in investing for

our future. The success of

farm families and American

agriculture depends to a

large extent on having strong,

supportive rural communities.

Page 5: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

You don’t start with the foundation.

You start with the financing.

n Fixed-rate construction-to-permanent

financing

n 30-, 60- and 90-day rate lock-ins

n Small or large tracts of land

n Home purchases or construction

n Home improvements

n Mortgage refinancing

n Recreational or investment property

n Barns, fences and outbuildings

Picking the perfect spot to build your dream home is important. Which way does

the sun come up in the mornings? Where are the best views? Where does the shade

fall in the afternoons?

Answering these questions starts after you call AgCarolina Financial. We

understand the ins and outs of buying and building in the country and can help

turn your dreams into the lifestyle you’ve always imagined.

AgCarolina Financial has been financing land and homes for more than 90 years,

and we can be at the foundation of creating your place in the country.

800-951-3276 | www.agcarolina.com

Page 6: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

6 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

State Fair runs in Raleigh, October 16-26

State FairOffers Something for Everyone

“The fair is such a popular

event for many North

Carolinians that we felt an

additional day is warranted

to allow people as much

time as possible to enjoy the

Fair,” said Wesley Wyatt,

State Fair manager.

The N.C. State Fair may be weeks away, but there’s already an excitement at the fairgrounds as preparations continue for the annual event. One reason for the flurry of activity is the Fair will open early for a Preview Day on Thursday, Oct. 16, giving fairgoers an additional evening of rides, food and games.

“The fair is such a popular event for many North Carolinians that we felt an additional day is warranted to allow people as much time as possible to enjoy the Fair,” said Wesley Wyatt, State Fair manager. Preview Day will also feature discounted gate admission and a wrist band for unlimited rides, which will cost $25 and will only be available on this date. Gates will open on Preview Day at 3 p.m. and the exhibit halls and Midway will open at 4 p.m.

The Fair is busy getting dust out of the air as well, as finishing touches are being placed on several construction projects. The parking lot between Dorton Arena and the Sam Rand Grandstand was refinished with new amenities for concessionaires and people. A seating area will provide a space for fairgoers to sit and relax while eating their favorite fair foods, and new electrical boxes and water line hookups will help make the area safer for vendors and visitors alike. There were other grounds improvements completed over the summer, such as water and sewage line upgrades and painting and landscaping projects.

The grounds entertainment lineup has been finalized, with some favorites returning to the lineup and some new faces that are sure to become crowd favorites. The Circle C Racing Pigs will be back on the Hogway Speedway near Gate 9, and Smithfield the Painting Pig will wow the crowds in front of the Exposition Center. The King Action Sports Stunt Show will be in the grandstand, marking the 10th year since Keith King and friends first made an appearance at the State Fair. This year, a motor cross jumper will join the BMX stunt show. The tractor pull and demolition derby will also take place in the grandstand.

It’s been several years, but he’s been missed, so Rock-it the Robot is making a comeback at the Fair. This 9-foot-tall robot may look imposing, but he steals hearts wherever he goes on the fair-grounds. At that height, he won’t have to look up to see Carrie McQueen, the stilt walker, when they pass each other on the grounds.

The Wells Family Band will perform on the Waterfall Stage, along with several beach music groups. The Kenny and Amanda Smith Band will be on the Bluegrass Stage in Heritage Circle.

Page 7: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

7AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

The State Fair will be going green this year with its exhibit Green NC. This exhibit will introduce fairgoers to easy and economical ways to help save the environment, as well as introduce future technologies. The fairgrounds will also expand its recycling program to include bottles and cans as part of this initiative.

Green NC is sponsored by Duke Energy, Progress Energy, Advanced Energy and the N.C. Electric Cooperatives.

The N.C. State Fair will be held at the N.C. State Fairgrounds in Raleigh Oct. 16-26. For more information and to buy tickets, go to www.ncstatefair.org. n

For more information and to buy tickets go to

www.ncstatefair.org.

The nightly entertainment in Dorton Arena will keep things rocking, rolling and cooking. Performers include:

Thursday, Oct. 16 Josh Turner $22

Friday, Oct. 17 Jason Aldean $15

Saturday, Oct. 18 Toby Mac $10

Sunday, Oct. 19 Lady Antebellum and Heidi Newfield $8

Monday, Oct. 20 Bobby Flay $22

Tuesday, Oct. 21 Bucky Covington $5

Wednesday, Oct. 22 TBA

Thursday, Oct. 23 Mario $16.50

Friday, Oct. 24 Skillet and Leeland $8

Saturday, Oct. 25 Joe Nichols $11.50

Sunday, Oct. 26 Montgomery Gentry $31.50

Page 8: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

8 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Escape to small town jewels across North Carolina for the supreme fall color experience. Natural scenic beauty, adventure and relaxation, a dining experience for every taste, rich history, and warm Southern hospitality come together in North Carolina. Plan your getaway now at VisitNC.com. Check out attractions, accommodations, restaurants and more to plan your getaway.

Fall’s signature events include local color on a national and regional scale—everything from woolly worm races to hot air balloon ascents to NASCAR racing and world famous barbecue. Whether the foliage is at peak or just getting started, this list offers a quick look at the fun cranking up across the state.

5th Annual Southern Coastal Bluegrass Festival, Kure Beach September 20-21Enjoy the best of bluegrass music, clogging, square dancing and storytelling. Local artist and craftsmen will sell and demonstrate their work. www.coastalbluegrassfestival.org.

Cycle North Carolina, Across the State September 27-October 4CNC 2008 will be an exciting tour from Black Mountain to Oak Island with overnight stops in

Morganton, Lincolnton, Concord at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, Wingate, Laurel Hill, White Lake, and Oak Island. The ride will begin in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and finish just yards away from the beach in Oak Island. Along the way, we will visit many historic sites, tourist attrac-tions, wineries, etc. Please contact us for informa-tion on cost, registration, and overnight options. www.ncsports.org/nccyclemain.php.

Colors of the Fall on the French Broad River, Rosman Saturdays in OctoberExperience the fall leaf season from a different point of view. This guided three-hour canoe trip will take you down the valley with the explosion of color for your entertainment. Bring your lunch for a picnic along the way. www.headwatersoutfitters.com.

Cherokee Indian Fair, Cherokee October 7-11This nearly century-old celebration includes artwork, crafts, agricultural items, and traditional food items made by local artisans. Vendors from throughout the region participate in craft sales and top entertainment complements the visual feast. www.cherokee-nc.com.

Riverfest 2008, Wilmington October 4Wilmington’s annual riverfront celebration in historic downtown features live music, arts, crafts, food booths, ship tours, river events and children’s carnival. Also included are fireworks, a shag contest, wrestling, and Run the River races. www.wilmingtonriverfest.com.

22nd Annual NC Seafood Festival, Morehead City October 3-5Get ready to walk down the waterfront with the sun shining on our face, and a North Carolina Shrimp Burger. Enjoy an array of exhibits

Community News

Explore North CarolinaMust-See Signature Fall Events in North Carolina

Page 9: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

9AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

and the sound of music from jazz to the hand clappin’ rhythms of Down East. Come stuff up on shrimp, crab and oysters, stews, salads and sandwiches filled with various seafood delights. www.ncseafoodfestival.org.

Southern Supreme Nutty Fruitcake Open House, Bear Creek October 9-12Visit North Carolina’s largest producer of fruit-cakes for a very special open house for cakes, candies, and pickles. Southern Supreme began in 1984 with a fruitcake recipe and continues to be a family-oriented business that carries on the tradition of quality and service that is tasted in their products and reflected in praise from satisfied customers. www.sosupreme.com.

Bank of America 500, Concord October 11Round five of the 10-race chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the Bank of America 500 is sure to play a pivotal role in deciding the series cham-pionship. This 500-mile classic will once again run under the lights on Saturday night. www.low4esmotorspeedway.com.

MUMfest Weekend, New Bern October 11-12Now in its 28th year, MUMfest is recognized as one of the finest award-winning family festivals in the state. MUMfest is a combination of fun and entertainment that annually attracts more than 80,000 festival-goers to the revitalized beauty of

New Bern’s historic downtown and waterfront. www.mumfest.com.

28th Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival, Shallotte October 18-19Every year, over 30,000 people gather to pay homage to the mighty mollusk. There’s live entertainment, surfing contest, kids area, North Carolina Oyster Shucking Championships and an Oyster Stew Cook-off. Visit the Coastal Living tent with a wine tasting and a live cooking demonstration from foods editor Julia Rutland. www.brunswickcountychamber.org/OF-nc-oyster-shucking-championshuips.cfm.

31st Annual Woolly Worm Festival, Banner Elk October 18-19Named one of the top Ten Fall Festivals in North America by the Society of American Travel Writers,

this family event offers the chance for “your” woolly worm to win $1,000! More than 20,000 attendees flock to the festival, looking for a good laugh. The fuzzy patterns on the woolly worms will forecast the winter weather to come. www.averycounty.com

35th Annual Carolina BalloonFest, StatesvilleOctober 24-26Thousands of friends from around the country visit Carolina BalloonFest each and every year. Fun for the entire family with balloon rides, balloon watching, children’s activities, fine foods and great North Carolina wine. www.carolinaballoonfest.com.

25th Annual Barbecue Festival, Lexington October 25Visit uptown Lexington, where more than 100,000 people enjoy the finest exhibits, entertainment, and of course, the best barbecue in the world! www.barbecuefestival.com. n(Information courtesy of North Carolina Department of Commerce-Division of Tourism, Film, and Sports Development)

Natural scenic beauty, adventure and relaxation, a dining experience for every taste,

rich history, and warm Southern hospitality come together in North Carolina.

Page 10: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

10 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Donnie Blizzard, a farmer in the Snow Hill area of Greene County, has two passions in life: growing flue-cured tobacco and hunting whitetail deer. Of his passion for growing tobacco, Donnie says, “It’s in my blood….and I’m enjoying it just as long as I can.” Donnie’s love for hunting whitetail deer is something he also learned from his father and grandfather. And, now he’s passed both passions on to his son, Luke.

Donnie’s passion for growing tobacco

Donnie, who’s been farming for more than 30 years, runs a 1,400-acre row crop operation where he grows tobacco, corn, soybeans, cotton, and wheat. This year Donnie is growing 400 acres of tobacco- the most he’s ever grown. He owns about 1/4 of his tobacco acres. He rents the rest of the acreage from several neighbors to grow the other half of his golden leaf crop.

This year, Donnie started growing half of his tobacco a little differently. He’s growing PRC or “Pesticide Residue Clean” tobacco under contract to United Tobacco, who’s buying the crop exclusively for Sante Fe Natural Tobacco Co. of Oxford.

Donnie is growing this tobacco more like his father and grandfather used to before chemicals were available to control suckers, a notorious problem in growing tobacco. What Donnie likes best about the environmentally-friendly grown PRC tobacco is the premium he makes from delivering a residue-clean crop of tobacco to the market.

Though Donnie has three full-time employees helping him, his right-hand man on the farm is his son, Luke, now 20. A NC State sophomore studying agribusiness management and agronomy, Luke is there to help his dad farm on weekends, vacations, and during summer breaks. He’s looking

forward to a future in farming or agribusiness. Says his dad, “His heart is tied to the farm, but he knows that he needs to get his degree.”

Donnie’s passion-filled Whitetail Adventures

Donnie started his Whitetail Adventures, Inc. deer-hunting business about 20 years ago when he made his first trip taking hunters to hunt whitetail deer in Canada and Mexico. “I started out making just one hunting trip a year, but after 10 years of traveling to eight or nine different states and two countries, the light bulb came on for me,” says Donnie.

When he expanded his tobacco acreage a couple years ago, Donnie had to change the way he ran his hunting business. For half of his current hunting business, Donnie does all the work and accompanies about 30 hunters on their hunting trip. For another 30 to 40 hunters, Donnie serves as a booking agent for four-to eight-man hunter parties, leaving reputable outfitters to work with them at their location.

As a result, Donnie says, “Now, I don’t have to be on hunting trips all of the time.” Whether he’s with them or not, Donnie’s goal is to ensure that each of his clients receives a quality hunting experience. For more than two decades, Donnie’s company has provided several hundred adventures each year with an opportunity to live their dream of taking the biggest whitetail deer from places as far north as Saskatchewan to the sunny peninsula of Mexico. In addition to whitetail deer hunts, Donnie also books trips to hunt bear, turkey, and waterfowl.

For the past three years, Donnie’s been intro-ducing children to the outdoors through his family whitetail deer-hunting camps in Texas, Mexico, and North Carolina. Says Donnie, “The kids’ hunt is so popular that we fill up as soon as we start booking

“It’s in my blood….

and I’m enjoying it just as

long as I can.”

Member Feature

Donnie and Luke BlizzardShare Love for Farming and Hunting and Whitetail Deer, too!By: Jim haskins, ABC Communications Group

Donnie Blizzard is passionate about growing flue-cured tobacco and hunting whitetail deer. Both of these skills he learned from his father and grandfather and has now passed them on to his son, Luke.

Page 11: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

11AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

our trips, which occur from Nov. 1 to Dec. 20th. But my greatest satisfaction comes from working with these kids.”

In 2007, Donnie took 20 kids hunting, 14 of them came from the local area. The program has been so successful that expansion is underway to accommodate the growing demand for parents and children to share the hunting experience.

Donnie and Luke’s Borrowing History

When his dad’s health declined, Donnie remembers walking into his county FHA office to ‘beg’ a loan. “I guess I convinced them I’d be a good risk. After farming with a supervised loan for a couple of years, they kicked me out to get the money on my own.” Today, Donnie has his operating loans for his sizable crop operation with AgCarolina Financial.

Like his dad, Luke, who attended NCSU last year with an AgCarolina Financial scholarship, took out an equipment loan to buy a 140-HP tractor. Preparing for his future in farming, last

year Luke obtained a USDA-FSA-sponsored ‘Beginning Young Farmer’ loan to finance the purchase of 11 used tobacco barns, a sprayer, and other equipment.

Of his start as a member of AgCarolina Financial, Donnie says, “I’ve known my loan officer, Danny Alexander, for a long time, and was really impressed when my friend and neighbor, Audie Murphy became a director of AgCarolina Financial. Of course, the Patronage Dividend program added another attractive dimension for me. It has been a good experience. Now we’re trying to expand our operation, so we’ll do even more business with AgCarolina Financial in the future.” n

When his dad’s health declined, Donnie remembers walking into his county FHA office to

‘beg’ a loan. “I guess I convinced them I’d be a good risk. After farming with a supervised

loan for a couple of years, they kicked me out to get the money on my own.”

Above: Luke with Tractor financed with loan from AgCarolina Financial

Below: Donnie and Luke in front of “Blizzard Farms’ logo’d tobacco harvester

Page 12: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

12 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Community News

Spotlighting our Scholars for 2008-09 Recipients of the AgCarolina Financial AgCarolina Financial Fund for Rural North Carolina FFA Scholarship, the Fund for Rural North Carolina At-Large Scholarship, and the North Carolina State University Scholarships were selected earlier in the summer.

The At-Large and FFA Scholarship Program is a vital element of the Fund for Rural North Carolina, the association’s corporate giving program. Nine $1,000 scholarships were awarded to children and grandchildren of customers and employees who will be attending or are currently enrolled in a four year North Carolina college or university. Five $500 FFA scholarships were awarded to five young people who will be continuing their studies at a North Carolina college or university.

Congratulations to each

of these outstanding and

talented recipients.

Amanda KieferLa Grange, NC

Parent: Annette L. McCullough

North Carolina State UniversityAg Education, Ag Communication

Fund for Rural North Carolina FFA Scholarship

Nicholas BellLouisburg, NC

Parents: Ricky and Tammy Bell

North Carolina State University Ag InstituteAgribusiness Management-Field Crop Technology

Andrew BalanceNew Bern, NC

Parents: Michael and Audrey Balance

Mount Olive CollegeAg Education

Roderica WorrellGoldsboro, NC

Parents: Adrian and Selena Worrell

North Carolina A&T State UniversityLandscape Architecture

Jillian CaseyGoldsboro, NC

Parents: Lee and Pam Casey

North Carolina State UniversityAg Education

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13AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Community News

Parker Ray Brown Jackon, NC

Parents:John and Joella Brown

North Carolina State University Biology

Sydney EdwardsWendell, NC

Parents: Randy and Rhonda Edwards

North Carolina State UniversityAgricultural Business Management and Spanish

Brittany L. JamesRobersonville, NC

Parents: Charles and Tammy James

North Carolina State UniversityAnimal Science

Morgan RodwellSeven Springs, NC

Parents: Chris and Susan Rodwell

North Carolina State UniversityAnimal Science

Morgan EllingtonHenderson, NC

Parents: Ralph and Kelly Ellington

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Pre-Med

Joshua Trey CashSnow Hill, NC

Parent: Randy Allen

East Carolina UniversityRecreation and Park Management

Clifton HollomanPrinceton, NC

Parents: Dennis and Sherry Holloman

North Carolina State UniversityBiology

Amanda ParkerNew Bern, NC

Parents: David and Brenda Parker

East Carolina UniversityNursing

Fund for Rural North Carolina At-Large Scholarship

Caitlin WainrightGreenville, NC

Parents: Charles and Lisa Wainright

Appalachian State UniversitySpeech and Language Pathology

Continuted on Next Page

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14 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Continuted from Previous Page

Robert L. Vick, Jr.Wilson, NC

Parents: Robert and Martha Vick

North Carolina State University Biological and Agricultural Engineering with concentrations in Ag Engineering and Environmental Engineering

Five $2,000 scholarships to North Carolina

State University for students currently enrolled in or who will be pursuing a

degree in the ag curriculum were presented to the

following:

Jessica E. NixonEdenton, NC

Parents: Michael and Amy Nixon

North Carolina State University Poultry Science major with a minor in Animal Science

Matthew P. DrakePinetops, NC

Parents: Paul and Melissa Drake

North Carolina State University Animal Science and Ag Business Management

Spencer B. DavisWilson, NC

Parents: Tim and Terry Davis

North Carolina State UniversityBiological Engineering

Charles W. Cahoon, Jr.Swan Quarter, NC

Parents: Charles and Deborah Cahoon

North Carolina State University Agronomy

For more information

on our Scholarship

Program, go to

www.agcarolina.com,

select careers & then

scholarships.

Community News

Page 15: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

15AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

As a member of Farm Credit, you are eligible to participate in multiple National Discount Programs offered exclusively to Farm Credit customers.

National, Alamo & Enterprise Car Rentals

Alamo• – Visit www.alamo.com or call 800-462-5266 & use Farm Credit Association ID: 308635.

National• – Go to www.nationalcar.com or call 800-328-4300 & use Corporate ID: 5700069.

Enterprise• - Go to www.enterprise.com or call 800-593-0505 & use Customer Number: XZ12G01

1-800-Flowers

Dell Computers Hard drive/monitor/keyboard/mouse. Save 2-12% depending on the dollars spent &

warranty timeframe. Go to www.dell.com/farmcredit or call 877-289-9437. When calling

you must use Member ID CS25031329 to get the discount.

Sprint WirelessSprint & Nextel Wireless Voice/Data Services & Equipment. Save up to 10% on your monthly service charges. Go to www.farmcreditsprintstore.com or call 877-263-5720 Mon-Fri., 8am-5pm Pacific Time. Existing Sprint or Nextel customers are also eligible by calling 877-263-5720 and tell the representative that you are with Farm Credit.

Flowers, Plants, Gift Baskets, etc. Go to www.1800flowers.com or 888-755-7474. Use promotion code FCCS to receive a 15% discount.

For more information on any of these Farm Credit programs, please visit www.fccservices.com and find the program you want under the National Discount Programs drop-down menu. Note that only the programs listed above are currently available to Farm Credit stockholders. Please take advantage of these savings and keep this information for your future reference.

As a member of Farm Credit, you are eligible to participate in multiple

Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Member Savings!Special Farm Credit

Flowers, Plants, Gift Baskets, etc. Go to www.1800flowers.com or 888-755-7474. Use promotion code FCCS to receive a 15% discount.

Page 16: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

Association News

16 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Association News

Tiffany GregoryTiffany Gregory joined the association on June 2 as a Financial Services Officer. She is a 2008 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Elizabeth City State University where she received a BS degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing. She is a member of Sigma Beta Delta, a national business honor society. Tiffany worked as a summer intern during the summer of 2007 with AgCarolina. She resides in Elizabeth City with her parents, Greg and Terrie Gregory. Tiffany enjoys horseback riding and spending time with her family. She has two Quarter horses and a Jack Russell Terrier. Tiffany says, “I am very passionate about agriculture and am grateful to have the opportunity of working with farmers and the rural community.”

Kyle KoonceKyle Koonce began his AgCarolina career on June 2. Kyle is a 2008 graduate of North Carolina State University receiving a BS Degree in Agricultural Business Management. Kyle is an Eagle Scout and also serves as a Lieutenant on the Trenton Volunteer Fire Department. He is a native of Trenton, NC where he currently resides. His parents are Timmy and Donna Koonce of

Trenton. Kyle enjoys duck and deer hunting, fishing, golfing, and playing around with his five year old Black Lab, Molly. “I’m looking forward to developing my skills as a Financial Services Officer with AgCarolina,” he says.

Laura MartinLaura Martin began her employment on June 2 as a Financial Services Officer. Laura is a graduate of North Carolina State University where she majored in Agricultural Extension Education. She is a native of Knightdale, N.C. and resides there with her parents, Eddie and Gail Martin. Laura says, “I live by one quote—“The one thing you can do better than anyone else is be yourself.” “I believe if you dream, dream big,” Laura has an aspiration to one day run for the office of the N.C. Commissioner of Agriculture. Laura is looking forward to working with AgCarolina Financial and the rural customers that the association serves. In her spare time, she enjoys relaxing at the beach or the lake and playing with her lab, Bailey.

Miranda MatthewsMiranda Matthews also joined the association on June 2 as a Credit Analyst. She was previ-ously employed with BB&T in the Retail Services Department in New Bern, N.C. She is a 2006

Summa Cum Laude graduate of East Carolina University with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration and she was recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Finance in 2006. Miranda and her husband, Adam, reside in Cove City with their two labs, Hunter a 4 year old yellow lab, and Jasmine their two year old black lab. Adam is a farmer with R&W McCoy Farms in Cove City, producers of corn, wheat, and soybeans. Miranda enjoys spending time outdoors, and especially enjoys jet skiing, knee-boarding, and tubing. She also enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Miranda says, “I am enjoying building my career with AgCarolina. I feel privileged to be in a position where I can work with the agricultural and rural communities of eastern North Carolina.”

Tina EllingtonTina Ellington joined AgCarolina on June 6 as a Customer Service Representative in the Raleigh office. Tina is a native Wake County girl, having grown up in Cary. Prior to joining AgCarolina, Tina was employed with the American Kennel Club as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the CEO. “This was a fun job,” says Tina, “plus you could take your dog to work every day!” Tina

AgCarolina Financial Welcomes New Employees

Kyle Koonce Laura MartinTiffany Gregory

Page 17: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

Association News

Article Title

Association News

17AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

resides in Garner, NC with her daughter, Lyda, age 17, and her son, Jake, age 13. The family also has a fourteen year old Border collie, named Holly. Both of her kids are heavily involved in sports so when time allows, Tina enjoys relaxing at her vacation home in White Lake, NC. Tina says, “I love working at AgCarolina, mainly, because everyone is so very nice. I already feel like part of a very close family and that is a great feeling!”

Candace ThompsonCandace Thompson, Home Loan Specialist, joined AgCarolina on July 7. For the past eight years, Candace has worked in the mortgage industry and she is a licensed NC Mortgage Loan Officer. In addition, she has a lot of “know how” about the construction business, since she worked for several years with her father, who is a licensed general contractor. She is the daughter of Ted and Bonnie Thompson of Nash County. Candace is engaged to Jim Bennett of Smithfield, NC and is currently planning their wedding for next spring. She enjoys deep sea fishing and participated in a King Mackerel Tournament on Labor Day weekend where she fished alongside her father. In addition, she enjoys gardening and spending time at the beach. “I’m very excited about building

a career with AgCarolina Financial. I feel that my background will allow me to offer the best service possible to our home loan customers,” says Candace.

Amy MustianAmy Mustian joined AgCarolina on July 14 as a Financial Services Officer in the Louisburg office. Amy will be servicing the Granville and Vance County areas. Before joining AgCarolina, Amy worked for Georgia-Pacific Corporation for fourteen years. She is a graduate of Syracuse University where she received a BS Degree in both Biology and Forestry. She is married to Alan Mustian, Operations Manager for Piedmont Pole & Piling in Oxford, NC. Amy and Alan reside in Warrenton where she enjoys gardening and reading. Amy says, “I grew up on a dairy farm in rural western New York so I am looking forward to getting back to my roots and working with farmers again. I also worked closely with loggers and wood suppliers during my career with Georgia Pacific. I can see a great deal of potential for AgCarolina to grow its business in that sector.” n

Miranda Matthews Tina Ellington Candace Thompson

Amy Mustian

Page 18: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

18 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Association News

AgCarolina Financial—Proud Supporter of Progressive Agriculture Safety DaysAgCarolina Financial was a sponsor of Progressive Agriculture Safety Day held at the Vernon E. James Center in Plymouth, NC. The safety day offers a unique safety day experience for youngsters living in rural areas. The goal of the

safety day is to raise awareness on farm safety issues which impact the youngster’s health and safety. Topics covered included boating safety, fire safety, ATV safety, food safety, and sun sense safety.

Grant applications are being accepted through the association’s corporate-giving program, The Fund for Rural North Carolina. Grants are available up to $5,000 per organization for programs that specifically benefit farmers and rural residents.

Applicants may request funding in one of the four focus areas: Education, Environment, Technology, or the Quality of Rural Life.

The grants will be group or organization based and will be considered for programs that are located within the thirty four county geographic areas in which the Association conducts business. Grants are generally not awarded to individuals.

“Through our corporate-giving fund, we can impact a broad spectrum of organizations in our service area that support rural North Carolina,”

states Gene Charville, Association CEO. “At the same time, the grant program reinforces the commitment that AgCarolina Financial has for enhancing the quality of life and future opportu-nities for Eastern North Carolina rural residents and their communities.”

Grant applications are available on the association website at www.agcarolina.com. The deadline is October 15. n

Grant Applications Being Accepted

1-800-951-3276

Above: Farm Safety Day participants learn how to be safe on the water.

Top: North Carolina State Highway Patrol officers offer tips on highway safety.

safety day is to raise awareness on farm safety issues which impact the youngster’s health and safety. Topics covered included boating safety, fire safety, ATV safety, food safety, and sun

safety day is to raise awareness on farm safety issues which impact the youngster’s health and safety. Topics covered included boating safety, fire safety, ATV safety, food safety, and sun

1-800-951-3276

AgCarolina hosts Financial SeminarsAgCarolina Financial recently hosted seminars for customers in the Lenoir and Wayne County areas. Financial Services Officers David Herring, Preston Sutton, and Eric Shivar, along with AgCarolina’s Financial Advisor, David Hackney, worked with Kinston-based attorney, Gray Johnsey in presenting the seminars.

Topics discussed at the seminars included ways to pass wealth, free from inheritance tax and the basics of the zero federal estate tax plan.

If you have questions regarding estate planning or other financial planning matters, please contact David Hackney, Financial Advisor, AgCarolina Financial, at 1-800-951-3276, ext. 229. If you would be interested in attending a seminar in your area, please contact your financial services officer or David Hackney at the number above.

Page 19: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

19AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Health

The debate over organically grown food versus conventionally grown food is not new. Some question the safety and quality

of conventionally grown food, including the effects of pesticides, especially during fetal development and childhood. Others feel organically grown food is superior in quality and safety. There have long been claims of the nutritional superiority of plant-based organically grown foods. Until more evidence is provided by sound science, use common sense and individual preference (and affordability) to determine what products to serve at your dinner table.

According to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) “organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations.” An organic food is one that is grown without:

• Syntheticpesticides• Fertilizersmadewithsyntheticingredients

or sewage sludge• Syntheticherbicides• Antibiotics• Bioengineering• Addedhormones• IonizingradiationThe USDA has established an organic

certification program requiring foods that claim to be organic meet strict government standards that regulate how such foods are grown, handled, processed, and transported. A USDA organic seal can be used for foods that meet these standards, but the use of the seal is voluntary.

BOXED ITEMGuide to Organic Food:

When buying organic foods, look for the “USDA Organic” label. Only foods in the categories “100% organic” and “organic” may display the USDA Organic Seal. Other foods

with varying levels of organic ingredients may be labeled as follows:

• “100% organic”—contains singleingredient, such as a fruit, vegetable, meat, milk, and cheese (excludes water and salt).

• “Organic”—multipleingredientfoodswhich are 95 to 100% organic.

• “Madewithorganic ingredients”— at least 70% of ingredients are organic. The organic seal cannot be used on these foods.

• “Containsorganicingredients”—containsless than 70% organic ingredients.

BOXED ITEM Shopping and preparation tips when purchasing produce whether organic or conventionally grown:

• Washall fresh fruitsandvegetablesthoroughly with cool, running water. Running water has an abrasive action that soaking does not provide. This may help remove contaminants from crevices.

• Peelfruitsandvegetables,anddiscardouter leaves of vegetables like lettuce and cabbage.

• Scrub vegetables like carrots and potatoes with a brush if you plan to eat the skins.

• Washoutsideofmelonsbeforecutting.• Refrigeratefresh,cutproducepromptly

to reduce growth of harmful bacteria.• Buylocallygrownproduceinseason

to ensure highest quality. Small local farms are less likely to treat produce with pesticide waxes used to inhibit fungus growth.

According to United States

Department of Agriculture

(USDA) “organic food

is produced by farmers

who emphasize the use

of renewable resources

and the conservation of

soil and water to enhance

environmental quality for

future generations.”

The Organic versus Conventional Debate ContinuesBy: Carol S. Mitchell, PhD, RD, LDN

Wake County Cooperative Extension Center

Continuted on Page 21

Page 20: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

20 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

n Life insurance proceeds can pay off your farm debts, giving your survivors precious time to decide how to move forward. If they decide to sell, they will have the freedom to seek the best price, rather than settle for less if they sold in a distressed situation.

n Life insurance proceeds can be used to provide your estate with liquidity, cash to continue to operate the farm, while other issues are being decided. Often as estates are being settled, normal buying and selling are restricted and it becomes difficult to operate the farm in the most profitable manner. A source of cash then becomes enormously important.

n Life insurance proceeds can be used to pay the estate taxes that may be due on your estate, usually within nine months after a death occurs. This can prevent the heirs from having to sell needed assets to pay

the taxes. While the federal government continues to negotiate a Federal estate tax bill, no one can be certain where the level will be set that you can pass to your heirs free of estate taxes.

n Life insurance proceeds can be used to fund a buy-sell agreement. Many family farms are managed as partnerships, and the death of one of the partners brings on special problems. A buy-sell agreement would allow the surviving partner the means to purchase the other share of the business at a fair price. A ready market for all shares would be estab-lished. This would allow fair treatment for your heirs if you should die first. If you were the surviving partner, it would eliminate the problem of new partners possibly coming in to run the business that you have helped build. The cost of this would be pennies on the dollar of benefit, and could be viewed as paying interest in advance on a loan, where the principal would never have to be repaid.

n Life insurance proceeds could provide the farm owner flexibility to hire a replacement if a key employee should die. In many instances, a son has stayed on the farm and his father is highly dependent on him. Life insurance on that son or other key employee would allow the farmer flexibility in a time of crisis. It also provides a way of protecting the son’s family if that unfortunate event should occur.

n Life insurance proceeds can help maintain fairness in estate planning. As in the situation above, many times one son or daughter has remained on the farm and worked, while the other children have moved off and found other employment. Preserving the future happiness of the family remains important, and is best not left to the children to “sort out” after the parents are

gone. Providing the nonfarming heirs with some life insurance proceeds can be a means of making a fair and equitable division.

At Money Concepts, we emphasize the need for thorough financial planning. Life insurance is but one tool among the equipment of good planning tools. Its many uses make it extremely valuable. We buy insurance not for ourselves, but for those we would leave behind, because we care.

Call us today for a review of your life insurance or other financial planning needs. Money Concepts is proud to be endorsed by AgCarolina Financial and the Farm Credit System. n

Providers of Financial Services Since 1979.

All Securities through Money Concepts Capital Corp. Member

FINRA/SIPC. Money Concepts Advisory Service is a Registered

Investment Advisor with the SEC. All Non Securities and Non

Advisory Products through Money Concepts International, Inc.

11440 North Jog Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418

The most important asset

on any family farm is

not the equipment or the

livestock or even the land.

It’ s the farmer. Would

your family business survive

if something were to happen

to you? Smart insurance

planning can ensure

that it will.

Financial

Life Insurance Planning Can Rescue the FarmInsuring Your Most Valuable Asset...You...

David Hackney Money Concepts Financial Advisor

1-800-951-3276, Ext. 229

Page 21: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

21AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Association News

• Beawarethatsomeproducehasbeenfound to have more pesticide contami-nation than others. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit research group, has used government data to compile a list of conventionally grown produce that carry the greatest amount of pesticides. The least contami-nated include onions, avocados, sweet corn (frozen), pineapples, mango, sweet peas (frozen), asparagus, kiwi, bananas, cabbage, broccoli, and eggplant. Foods with the highest pesticide levels include: peaches, apples, sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, lettuce, imported grapes, pears, spinach, and potatoes.

Research shows little definitive evidence that organically grown food is nutritionally superior to conventionally produced food. More carefully controlled studies are needed to be conclusive. Often the decision to eat organic food comes down to a desire to eat foods produced without chemicals or synthetic pesticides. As far as researchers have been able to determine, conven-tionally grown produce is a healthy choice – and the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables far outweigh any risk of ingesting traces of pesticides. In addition, you can reduce the levels of some, but not all, pesticide residues by simply washing, and when possible peeling, fruits and vegetables before eating them.

Continue to read nutrition labels and make wise selections to maintain an overall healthy diet. Keep in mind that the words “natural” and “organic” are not interchangeable.

Another consideration is cost – organic foods can be more expensive. Organic food is often produced locally, resulting in lower production costs and potentially lowering the cost. Be sure to do comparative shopping -- occasionally organic foods are available at competitive prices.

Use your best judgment and make sound decisions based on science when deciding between organic and conventionally grown food products.

n

Continuted from Page 19

Office Date Hours

Louisburg October 7 5 pm – 7 pm

Halifax October 9 12 pm – 2 pm

Elizabeth City October 14 12 pm – 2 pm

Greenville October 28 12 pm – 2 pm

Rocky Mount October 30 12 pm – 2 pm

Swan Quarter November 13 5 pm – 7 pm

Williamston November 21 12 pm – 2 pm

La Grange November 25 12 pm – 2 pm

New Bern November 25 12 pm – 2 pm

Smithfield November 26 12 pm – 2 pm

Raleigh December 5 12 pm – 2 pm

Come Celebrate!What: Customer Appreciation Where: Elizabeth City, Greenville, Halifax, La Grange, Louisburg, Rocky Mount, New Bern, Raleigh, Smithfield, Swan Quarter, and Williamston

When: See Schedule

Check your mailbox for your invitation to attend.

Make sure you RSVP by the date indicated on your

invitation.We look forward to seeing you!

Page 22: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

22 AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Get Ready to Tailgate!It’s that time of year, so grab tailgating gear and make some munchies to cheer on your team.

Pretzel Dip1 pkg. Hidden Valley dip mix (original flavor) 2 – 8 oz. pkgs. Cream cheese6 oz. beer 6 oz. shredded cheddar cheesePretzelsMix all ingredients and chill.

No-Bake Classic Snack Mix3 cups Spoon Size Shredded Wheat Cereal 2 cups popped popcorn1 cup small pretzels ½ cup Cocktail Peanuts3 Tbsp. Butter or margarine, melted 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce½ tsp. Seasoned salt

In large microwavable bowl, toss cereal with popcorn, pretzels, and peanuts. Mix butter, Worcestershire sauce and seasoned salt until well blended. Drizzle evenly over cereal mixture; toss to coat. Microwave on HIGH 2 to 3 mins. or until cereal is crisp, stirring after 2 mins.

Nutty Chicken Salad Sandwich1 cup chicken breast, cooked and diced ½ cup celery½ cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp. Chopped walnuts or pecans2 tsp. Lemon juice ¼ tsp. Salt1/8 tsp. Pepper 8 slices whole wheat bread

In a mixing bowl, add the chicken, celery, mayonnaise, nuts, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Toss gently until thoroughly mixed. Spread the chicken salad on the bread. For easier eating, cut bread in half. Wrap each sandwich in plastic

wrap, place in a plastic container and keep in ice chest. At the tailgate site, take out of ice chest just before serving.

BarBQ Chicken Wings2 lbs. chicken wings 2/3 cup ketchup¼ tsp. Red pepper ½ tsp. Allspice2 Tbsp. Lime juice 1/8 tsp. Garlic powder1 Tbsp. Brown sugar

Preheat oven to 400˚ F.Cut off wing tips. Cut each wing in half at joint. Place wings on broiler rack. Bake for 50 to 60 mins. Or until crisp (turn once). In a bowl, add ketchup, red pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Brush BBQ sauce on wings. Place under broiler and broil for 2 to 3 mins. Turn wings and brush with sauce. Broil for an extra 2 to 3 mins. Make before heading to your tailgate party. Place in thermal container and keep warm until ready to serve.

Quick Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Cupcakes1 roll (16.5 oz.) Pillsbury refrigerated traditional chocolate fudge brownies 10 minature chocolate-covered peanut butter cup candies

Heat oven to 350˚ F. Place paper baking cup in each of 10 regular-size muffin cups. Divide brownie batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each 2/3 full. Press 1 candy into batter in each cup so half of candy shows above batter. Bake 23 to 28 mins. Cool 30 mins. Before serving. n

22

Recipes

Page 23: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

23AgCarolina Financial • Autumn 2008

Second Quarter Financial Report

23

June 30, December 31,(dollars in thousands) 2008 2007

(unaudited) (audited)

AssetsCash 409$ 2,675$

Loans 889,460 785,202 Less: allowance for loan losses 6,883 6,877

Net loans 882,577 778,325

Other investments, held to maturity 65,235 66,939Accrued interest receivable 14,101 19,897Investment in other Farm Credit institutions 12,391 12,391Premises and equipment, net 8,408 8,734Due from AgFirst Farm Credit Bank 2,927 6,813Other assets 8,817 8,785

Total assets 994,865$ 904,559$

LiabilitiesNotes payable to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank 841,837$ 745,813$ Accrued interest payable 3,002 3,649Patronage refund payable 96 7,318Other liabilities 11,373 20,597

Total liabilities 856,308 777,377

Commitments and contingencies

Members' EquityCapital stock and participation certificates 14,227 12,092Retained earnings Allocated 56,670 56,644 Unallocated 67,660 58,446

Total members' equity 138,557 127,182

Total liabilities and members' equity 994,865$ 904,559$

(dollars in thousands) 2008 2007 2008 2007

Interest IncomeLoans 13,568$ 15,356$ 27,781$ 29,317$ Other 946 896 1,835 1,737

Total interest income 14,514 16,252 29,616 31,054

Interest ExpenseNotes payable to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank 8,923 10,636 18,617 20,405

Net interest income 5,591 5,616 10,999 10,649 Provision for (reversal of allowance for) loan losses — — — —

Net interest income after provision for (reversal of allowance for) loan losses 5,591 5,616 10,999 10,649

Noninterest IncomeLoan fees 890 749 2,337 1,781Fees for financially related services 62 58 235 269Equity in earnings of other Farm Credit institutions 1,530 1,404 2,925 2,687Gains (losses) from sale of rural home loans 17 (5) 24 (4)Other noninterest income (4) 61 99 98

Total noninterest income 2,495 2,267 5,620 4,831

Noninterest ExpenseSalaries and employee benefits 2,267 2,256 4,548 4,359Occupancy and equipment 253 254 541 517Insurance Fund premium 309 282 593 544Other operating expenses 622 604 1,475 1,246

Total noninterest expense 3,451 3,396 7,157 6,666

Income before income taxes 4,635 4,487 9,462 8,814Provision (benefit) for income taxes 2 — 2 —

Net income 4,633$ 4,487$ 9,460$ 8,814$

ended June 30,

AgCarolina Financial, ACA

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)

For the three months ended June 30,

For the six months

June 30, December 31,(dollars in thousands) 2008 2007

(unaudited) (audited)

AssetsCash 409$ 2,675$

Loans 889,460 785,202 Less: allowance for loan losses 6,883 6,877

Net loans 882,577 778,325

Other investments, held to maturity 65,235 66,939Accrued interest receivable 14,101 19,897Investment in other Farm Credit institutions 12,391 12,391Premises and equipment, net 8,408 8,734Due from AgFirst Farm Credit Bank 2,927 6,813Other assets 8,817 8,785

Total assets 994,865$ 904,559$

LiabilitiesNotes payable to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank 841,837$ 745,813$ Accrued interest payable 3,002 3,649Patronage refund payable 96 7,318Other liabilities 11,373 20,597

Total liabilities 856,308 777,377

Commitments and contingencies

Members' EquityCapital stock and participation certificates 14,227 12,092Retained earnings Allocated 56,670 56,644 Unallocated 67,660 58,446

Total members' equity 138,557 127,182

Total liabilities and members' equity 994,865$ 904,559$

(dollars in thousands) 2008 2007 2008 2007

Interest IncomeLoans 13,568$ 15,356$ 27,781$ 29,317$ Other 946 896 1,835 1,737

Total interest income 14,514 16,252 29,616 31,054

Interest ExpenseNotes payable to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank 8,923 10,636 18,617 20,405

Net interest income 5,591 5,616 10,999 10,649 Provision for (reversal of allowance for) loan losses — — — —

Net interest income after provision for (reversal of allowance for) loan losses 5,591 5,616 10,999 10,649

Noninterest IncomeLoan fees 890 749 2,337 1,781Fees for financially related services 62 58 235 269Equity in earnings of other Farm Credit institutions 1,530 1,404 2,925 2,687Gains (losses) from sale of rural home loans 17 (5) 24 (4)Other noninterest income (4) 61 99 98

Total noninterest income 2,495 2,267 5,620 4,831

Noninterest ExpenseSalaries and employee benefits 2,267 2,256 4,548 4,359Occupancy and equipment 253 254 541 517Insurance Fund premium 309 282 593 544Other operating expenses 622 604 1,475 1,246

Total noninterest expense 3,451 3,396 7,157 6,666

Income before income taxes 4,635 4,487 9,462 8,814Provision (benefit) for income taxes 2 — 2 —

Net income 4,633$ 4,487$ 9,460$ 8,814$

ended June 30,

AgCarolina Financial, ACA

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)

For the three months ended June 30,

For the six months

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)

Page 24: Donnie and Luke Blizzard

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDCOLUMBIA SCPERMIT 1160

AgCarolina Financial

P.O. Box 14789

Raleigh, N.C. 27620

800-951-3276www.agcarolina.com

But a lot of little things done right can make all the difference.Nothing grows on its own. It takes the right conditions and constant attention before anything can be the best it can be. AgCarolina Financial supports the growth and education of our youth in eastern North Carolina and all of rural America.

Seems Like Such a Little Thing.