SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: May 29, 2014

Media Contact: Jerome Hertel, 605.353.7340

Leading Ag Financial Institution Developing Leaders of Tomorrow Through Contribution

HURON, S.D. – The South Dakota State Fair Foundation announced today that Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica) has given a $150,000 gift to the Capital Campaign for the building of a new exhibit hall on the South Dakota State Fairgrounds. 

“Every day, in everything we do, we at FCSAmerica strive to become agriculture’s most valued financial partner,” said Bob Schmidt, senior vice president for FCSAmerica. “Today, we have the opportunity to also be a community partner. Through our underwriting of this multi-use exhibit hall, we are participating in a project that will positively impact South Dakota residents for generations to come. We take pride in having FCSAmerica’s name attached to the conference room, and appreciate the opportunity to give back to those we serve through this beautiful showcase for 4-H, youth and community activities.”

The conference room is one of the many features that the new 46,910 square-foot exhibit hall will boast.  It will also feature more than 35,000 square feet of exhibit space, multiple classrooms, a large kitchen for 4-H Special Foods competitions, year-round concessions and a performance stage.

“It is our pleasure to underwrite a project that is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Jason Edleman, vice president of FCSAmerica’s Huron office. “FCSAmerica is underwriting a conference room that will serve agriculture year-round through educational events, 4-H exhibits and related activities. We view this project as a long-term investment in the communities where we work and live.”

“Farm Credit Services of America is a leader in their industry, and in the community,” commented Jerome Hertel, SD State Fair director. “They are helping to develop great leaders of tomorrow through their contribution to the Nordby Exhibit Hall for 4-H, Youth and Community. This money will aid in continuing the youth development experience of 4-H.”

Those interested in supporting the Capital Campaign should contact the State Fair office at 605.353.7340 or visit www.sdstatefairfoundation.com.

Farm Credit Services of America is a customer-owned financial cooperative proud to finance the growth of rural America, including the special needs of young and beginning producers. With more than $21 billion in assets and $3.7 billion in members’ equity, FCSAmerica is one of the region’s leading providers of credit and insurance services to farmers, ranchers, agribusiness and rural residents in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. Learn more at www.fcsamerica.com.

Agriculture is South Dakota's No. 1 industry, generating over $21 billion in annual economic activity and employing more than 122,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture's mission is to promote, protect, preserve and improve this industry for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at http://sdda.sd.gov or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Photo attached (Left to Right): Jason Edleman, vice president of Farm Credit Services of America’s Huron Office; Bob Schmidt, senior vice president for Farm Credit Services of America; Jerome Hertel, SD State Fair director