Engaging Seminars and Workshops

2013 - 2014Program Catalog

Welcome to theBusiness Management Center

Seeking, interpreting and sharing knowledge about the industries we serve is a core

value of Northwest Farm Credit Services. We’re firmly committed to helping business

owners and their families be successful long term. That’s why we’ve invested in

educational programs and business facilitation to help you improve your management

skills and support the transfer of leadership and management to the next generation.

We have a strong history of working with family-owned businesses in our Business

Management Center. Knowledgeable and experienced facilitators have worked with

hundreds of family operations, non-family management teams and business boards,

helping to improve management practices, communication and strategic planning. Over

the years we’ve received tremendous feedback from our customers. They tell us these

educational programs and one-on-one facilitation have made significant and lasting

differences in their businesses.

We hope you will take advantage of the BMC programs offered in 2013 - 2014. The

schedule changes every year and we do our best to provide programs in a variety of

locations. During these sessions you will gain insights to better manage your business.

Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to network with some of the successful producers we

have the privilege of working with every day.

For program details, dates, updates and registration visit: northwestfcs.com/register

Table of Contents

2 2013-2014 BMC Calendar

4 RateWise™ Program

5 Ag Outlook Conference

6 Basic Financial Workshops: Level I & II

7 Advanced Financial Workshops: Level III & IV

8 Young and Beginning Producers Conference

9 Executive Producers Summit: Strategic Planning for Peak Performance

10 Family Business Succession Planning Seminar

11 Webinars

12 One-On-One Strategic Planning and Facilitation

14 BMC Faculty

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Business Management Center2013-2014 Calendar

Ag Outlook ConferenceAg Outlook Location - click to register

November 5, 2013 Salem, Oregon*

November 6, 2013 Tri Cities, Washington*

November 7, 2013 Twin Falls, Idaho*

*Conferences open to non-customers

Basic Financial WorkshopsLevel I Level II Location - click to register

November 12, 2013 November 13, 2013 Great Falls, Montana

November 19, 2013 November 20, 2013 Bend, Oregon

December 3, 2013 December 4, 2013 Idaho Falls, Idaho

December 10, 2013 December 11, 2013 Spokane, Washington*

December 12, 2013 December 13, 2013 Benton City, Washington

*Spokane Financial Workshops open to non-customers

Advanced Financial WorkshopsLevel III Level IV Location - click to register

November 14, 2013 November 15, 2013 Billings, Montana

November 21, 2013 November 22, 2013 Salem, Oregon

January 7, 2014 January 8, 2014 Spokane, Washington*

January 9, 2014 January 10, 2014 Benton City, Washington

January 14, 2014 January 15, 2014 Nampa, Idaho

*Spokane Financial Workshops open to non-customers

Register soon at northwestfcs.com/register Programs fill up quickly.

Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/register

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Featured Programs Location - click to register

Family Business Succession SeminarJan. 30 – Feb. 1, 2014 Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Young and Beginning Producers ConferenceFebruary 4-6, 2014 Spokane, Washington

Executive Producers Summit

February 5-7, 2014 Spokane, Washington

Webinars

Outlook for Agriculture – Dr. Dave Kohl September 30, 2013

Economic Outlook (Q3) – Dr. Ed Seifried October 25, 2013

Strategic Planning – Dr. Dave Kohl November 25, 2013

Family Business Succession – Rich Thornton December 2, 2013

Economic Outlook (Q4) – Dr. Ed Seifried January 17, 2014

Personal Finance – Dr. Alex White February 13, 2014

Family Business Basics – Dr. Deb Houden February 25, 2014

Register soon at northwestfcs.com/register Programs fill up quickly.

Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193

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Welcome to the RateWise™ Program

Northwest Farm Credit Services is dedicated to helping the next generation of producers learn and grow. Our RateWise program rewards young, beginning and small producers for continuing their management education with interest rate reductions on new loans.

Program Features

• LearnandEarn – Participate in educational programs, enhance your management skills, make your operation more successful, and accumulate RateWise credits to qualify for interest rate reductions on your next loan or renewed operating loan.

• RateWiseRegistration – Beginning October 1, 2013, register online at northwestfcs.com/RateWise to start accumulating your RateWise credits.

• EligibleEducationPrograms – Programs eligible for RateWise credits include: 1) programs hosted by Northwest FCS’ Business Management Center and Knowledge Center; 2) programs hosted by universities, industry groups and the Farm Service Agency; 3) programs hosted by other resources to improve producers’ management and production skills.

• EarningRateWiseCredits– Participants can accumulate RateWise credits for six years beginning on the date of their program registration. Credits will also be accepted online for eligible programs attended in the 12 most recent months prior to registering for the RateWise program.

Northwest FCS University, Industry and Farm OtherPrograms Service Agency Programs Programs

½ day = 2 credits ½ day = 1 credit 1 credit regardless of duration1 day = 4 credits 1 day = 2 credits (maximum of 5 total credits earned)1+ days = 6 credits 1+ days = 3 credits

*Participation in and/or completion of degreed programs are not eligible

• InterestRateReductions – Rate reductions increase with the number of credits earned.

- 10 credits: 0.25 percent interest rate reduction for three years - 20 credits: 0.50 percent interest rate reduction for three years - 30 credits: 0.75 percent interest rate reduction for three years

• CertifyingRateWiseCredits– After registering for the RateWise program, participants can certify workshops and seminars completed by submitting a copy of the program’s agenda online.

• AdditionalBenefits – Book your first loan using RateWise credits and receive all the benefits of our nationally recognized AgVision® program for young, beginning, and small producers including an invitation to the Young and Beginning Producers Conference.

Contact your local Northwest FCS office for more information or,Register for the RateWise™ program at northwestfcs.com/RateWise

Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/RateWise

Ag Outlook Conference

November 5, 2013 – Salem, Oregon - click to register

November 6, 2013 – Tri Cities, Washington - click to register

November 7, 2013 – Twin Falls, Idaho - click to register

OverviewThis popular one-day seminar with Dr. Dave Kohl, Professor Emeritus at Virginia Tech., provides perspectives on the ‘Mega Trends’ in agriculture, including the global and national economies. Understanding trends helps producers determine the impact of macroeconomic factors influencing the future of agriculture. Dr. Kohl is a world leader in agricultural economics. His fun and engaging style makes complex macro-economic issues easy to understand and entertaining to learn.

Subjects Covered and Key Takeaways • U.S.Economics–Learnaboutthedomesticeconomyandkeytrendsimpactingyourbusiness• GlobalEconomics–Gainaperspectiveonglobalmarketsandhowtheyimpactdecisionsyoumakeeveryday• AgriculturalFocus–LearnhoweconomicandpoliticaltrendsimpactagricultureintheNorthwest• Networking–Meetandexpandrelationshipswithothersintheagriculturalcommunity

Who Should AttendFarmers, ranchers, agribusiness professionals and agricultural cooperative leaders. Open to Northwest FCS customers and non-customers.

What Participants Say“We are all very busy in our day-to-day operations. However, I’d urge anyone who has the opportunity to attend. Time spent with Dr. Kohl and gaining his perspective on global and national trends has been very, very beneficial to me and my business. It is time well spent.”

Times: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.Participants: 50 to 150

Fees: Nocharge–LunchprovidedAttire: Business casual

5Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193

Basic Financial WorkshopsLevelI:UnderstandingFinancialStatementsLevelII:UnderstandingFinancialAnalysis

Level I Level II Location - click to registerNovember 12, 2013 November 13, 2013 Great Falls, MontanaNovember 19, 2013 November 20, 2013 Bend, OregonDecember 3, 2013 December 4, 2013 Idaho Falls, IdahoDecember 10, 2013 December 11, 2013 Spokane, Washington*December 12, 2013 December 13, 2013 Benton City, Washington *Spokane Financial Workshops open to non-customers

OverviewNorthwest FCS’ hands-on, basic financial workshops are for those who want to understand financial statements and utilize financial information as a decision-making tool for managing a business. These courses emphasize fundamental skills and key lessons through case studies and the application of concepts. Participants may attend one or both of these interactive workshops. There are no prerequisites.

Level I: Understanding Financial Statements • FreeFinancialCalculator–Receiveaspecializedfinancialcalculatortokeepanduseathome • FinancialStatementBasics–Learnfinancialstatementterminologyandfundamentals • BalanceSheet–Buildandanalyzethebalancesheetthroughhands-onactivities • CashFlowBudget–Useabudgettoprojectcashneedsandmakemanagementdecisions • TimeValueofMoney–Evaluatetheimpactofpersonalandbusinessfinancialdecisions • FinancialRatios–Usefinancialratiostoassessthebusiness’financialstrengthsandweaknesses

Level II: Understanding Financial Analysis • FinancialRatios–Calculateandapply12financialratiostohelpmakedecisionsinyourbusiness • FinancialAnalysis–Applyfinancialandstrategicinformationtomakekeydecisions • IncomeStatement–Usetheincomestatementasadecision-makingtool,analyzingexpensesandprofits • Banker’sPerspective–Understandlenders’considerationswhenevaluatingyourbusiness • StrategicThinking–Learnandapplykeyfundamentalsusedinstrategicplanning • SWOTAnalysis–Assessinternalandexternalfactorsthatinfluencebusiness

Who Should AttendAll family members and key, non-family employees involved in record keeping or financial planning.

What Participants Say“An overall focus on financials is widely overlooked in most of our operation - we mainly look at costs. I learned the value of knowing and studying the balance sheet and income statement to better understand my financial situation.” – Level I Participant

“The workshop has me thinking more about how we look financially. Case studies helped me understand how I am looked at by potential lenders. The session was thought provoking and made me realize that I need to put more emphasis on cash flow and all our financial reports in general.” – Level II Participant

Times (each day): 8:00a.m.to3:30p.m.(LevelI)4:30p.m.(LevelII)Participants: 10 to 35

Fees: Nocharge–LunchprovidedAttire: Business casual

Supplies: PleasebringacalculatorforLevelII

6 Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/register

Times (each day): 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Participants: 10 to 35

Fees: Nocharge–LunchprovidedAttire: Business casual

Supplies: PleasebringacalculatorforLevelII

Advanced Financial WorkshopsLevelIII:ManagingGrowthandCapitalLevelIV:ManagingProfits,CashandRisk

Level III Level IV Location - click to registerNovember 14, 2013 November 15, 2013 Billings, MontanaNovember 21, 2013 November 22, 2013 Salem, OregonJanuary 7, 2014 January 8, 2014 Spokane, Washington*January 9, 2014 January 10, 2014 Benton City, WashingtonJanuary 14, 2014 January 15, 2014 Nampa, Idaho *Spokane Financial Workshops open to non-customers

OverviewNorthwest FCS’ advanced financial workshops are hands-on, case study-focused and discussion-based sessions for participants who have a strong understanding of financial statements and analysis. Participants may attend one or both of these interactive workshops. There are no prerequisites.

Level III: Managing Growth and CapitalFocused on aligning your business strategy, vision and financial position, this workshop addresses two fundamental questions:1)Liquidity– Does the business have minimum, adequate or excess liquidity? 2)Leverage – Does the business have maximum, sustainable or strategic leverage?

Key focus areas: • GrowthandRightsizing–Exploreandapplyninefundamentalstrategicalternatives • InvestmentDecisions–Understandearningsandoptionsforinvestinginthebalancesheet • RepaymentSources–Analyzeriskandthebusiness’abilitytomeetupcomingobligations • CashCycle–Learnaboutthecashcycleanditsapplicationtobusinessstrategyandfinancialmanagement • LiquidityAnalysis–Learnandapplyadvancedliquidityconceptsandmanagementstrategies • LeverageAnalysis–Learnandapplyadvancedleverageconceptstomitigateriskandachievelong-termsuccess • StrategicDecision-Making–Evaluatetheimpactofstrategicbusinessdecisions

Level IV: Managing Profits, Cash and RiskFocused on key profit and efficiency drivers, this workshop addresses the following fundamental questions: 1) Cash – Do you have enough cash to operate your business? 2) Breakeven – What is your breakeven point?

Key focus areas: • StatementofCashFlow–Buildandanalyzethiscriticallyimportantandoftenignoredfinancialstatement • CashManagement–Assesstheappropriatelevelofcashtomaintaininabusiness • ActivityRatios–Useactivityratiostomeasureandmanagethecashcycle • Breakeven–Learnandapplybreakevencalculationstomakeoperationalandstrategicdecisions

Who Should AttendManagers, family members and employees with a strong foundation in financial statements and financial analysis, including a basic understanding of liquidity and leverage.

7Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193

February 4-6, 2014 – Spokane, Washington - click to register

OverviewWe’ve designed the YB Conference exclusively for young, small, and beginning producers. Meet and learn from others who share an understanding of the rewards and challenges of getting started in business. Build skills to tackle entrepreneurial challenges, succession issues, manage work/life balance and grow a successful operation. Participants also learn from and share perspectives with one another. This fun and engaging program provides tools and knowledge to build a business that meets each individual’s definition of success, featuring a great line-up of experts, with sessions on:

Mega Trends in Agriculture – Dr. Dave Kohl, Virginia TechLearntounderstandtheworldthrougheconomics,identifyingfactorsthatdirectlyaffectyourbusiness.Developbasic financial skills and decision-making strategies to ensure long-term, sustainable success and experience Dave’s famous Megatrends in Agriculture.

Business Communications – Michael Stolp, Certified Family Business AdvisorExplore individual communication styles through the DiSC behavioral assessment. This tool will help participants understandtheirownstyleandapproachtocommunication.Learntocommunicateeffectivelywithfamilymembers and non-family members inside and outside the business.

Family Business Basics – Dr. Deb HoudenLearnthefundamentalsoffamilybusiness–howtonavigatethechallengesandopportunitiesallfamiliesfacewhen answering questions about transitioning roles and assets from one generation to the next. Take home tools to start a constructive conversation that gets the ball rolling towards a successful transition.

Personal Financial Management – Dr. Alex White, Virginia TechPersonal financial management is a critical element of everyone’s success. Discuss and learn about the family budget, managing personal debt, credit scores, savings, investing, insurance and college funds. Dr. White helps participants understand these issues and take control of their financial future.

Subjects Covered and Key Takeaways • GettingStarted–Prepareforsuccesswithuniqueinsightsaboutgettingstartedinbusiness • Communication–Becomeamoreeffectivecommunicatorinsideandoutsidethebusiness • FamilyBusiness–Gaininsightsonfamilybusinessrelationships,communicationsandsuccession • PersonalFinance–Learnstrategiestobalanceandprioritizepersonalandbusinessfinances • EconomicInsights–Learntoapplyeconomiclessonsfromtherealworldtoyouroperation

Featured Dinner Speaker – “SummitingMountEverest,”withDr.LanceFox,atechnicalserviceveterinarianforthedairyfeedindustry.Lanceshareshisexperienceandinspiresaudiencesacrosstheworldtodareto dream and overcome life’s obstacles.

Who Should AttendAgVision customers who have not attended the YB Conference. Spouses and significant others welcome.

What Participants Say“My batteries were charged and I was reminded again to focus on the important things. All the speakers were great. The sessions were energizing, networking with folks in similar circumstances.”

Young and Beginning Producers Conference

Time: 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 4, 2014 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, February 6, 2014Participants: 50 to 65

Fees: No charge – All meals providedLodgingcomplimentsofNorthwestFCS.Participantsresponsiblefortravelexpenses.

Attire: Business casual

8 Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/register

ExecutiveProducersSummit:Strategic Planning for Peak Performance

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Time: 1 p.m. Wednesday, February 5, 2014 to 11 a.m. Friday, February 7, 2014Participants: 40 to 65

Summit Fees: No charge – All meals provided Participants responsible for lodging and travel expenses to Spokane.

Attire: Business casual

February 5-7, 2014 – Spokane, Washington - click to register

OverviewThe Executive Producers Summit provides insights and perspectives on managing business in a dynamic, peer-ori-ented environment. Participants’ interests and questions drive the Summit’s roundtable discussions and actionable takeaway lessons from nationally recognized speakers and BMC facilitators. This year’s Summit will feature:

Strategic Planning Wayne Rivers: Co-Founder and President, Family Business Institute Long-termsuccessinbusinessrequiresaclearlydefinedplanthatalignsownersandemployeeswithasharedvisionfor the future. The strategic planning process does not need to be complex, but it should be comprehensive to make the most of your human, financial and natural resources. Through hands-on learning and application, you will leave the Summit with the tools, knowledge and processes to complete a strategic plan in your business.

Dr. Dave Kohl: Megatrends in Agriculture Explore national and global agricultural trends that directly affect operations in the Northwest with one of the national leaders in agricultural economics. Dr. Kohl’s unique, straightforward style makes learning about the economy engaging and interesting.

Dr. Ed Seifried: Interest Rates and Wall Street EconomicsLearnthelatesteconomictrendsaffectingthefutureofagricultureintheUnitedStatesandtheworld,focusedonkey indicators and applied information to help business leaders make smart, informed decisions. Also receive a copy of Dr. Seifried’s in-depth data sheet of current economic indicators.

Subjects Covered and Key Takeaways • ExclusiveSpeakers–Learnfromnational-levelspeakersontopicsaffectingagriculturetoday • StrategicPlanning–Learnhowtobuildastrategicplanforyourbusiness • AgricultureTrends–StayaheadofthecurvewithinsightsfromDr.DaveKohl • EconomicTrends–GaininsightoneconomictrendsandforecastsfromDr.EdSeifried • PeerApplications–Identifymanagementchallengesandsharereal-worldsolutionsinroundtablediscussions

Featured Dinner Speaker –“SummitingMountEverest,”withDr.LanceFox,atechnicalserviceveterinarianforthedairyfeedindustry.Lanceshareshisexperienceandinspiresaudiencesacrosstheworldtodareto dream and overcome life’s obstacles.

Who Should AttendThis seminar is open to all Northwest FCS customers. Attendees should be owners and/or key decision makers in the businesswhoenjoyengagingdiscussionsandprofessionalnetworking.Participantsshareaprogressivemindsetandinterest in lifelong learning from experts and one another.

What Participants Say“I enjoyed this whole experience. Peer interaction was great and the speakers are top notch. All the information we learned will be taken back to our day-to-day operation. Well worth my time.”

Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193

Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/register

Jan. 30 – Feb. 1, 2014 – Coeur d’Alene, Idaho - click to register

OverviewThe Succession Seminar is an interactive program featuring two of the nation’s top family business experts. The strategies and proven processes covered in the seminar help families transition ownership and management from one generation to the next. Northwest FCS recommends this seminar for all family members impacted by management succession and asset transfer to ensure all are informed and prepared for the process.

Dr. Don Jonovic and Rich Thornton: Family Business ExpertsLedbytwoprominentfamilybusinessexperts,participantswilllearntoassessbusinessandpersonallifecycles while understanding generational differences and motivators to enhance the succession and estate planning process. This seminar provides a foundation and real-world steps to complete a successful business and asset transition while preserving family relationships.

Subjects Covered and Key Takeaways• BusinessandFamily–Learntorecognizeandbalanceindividual,familyandbusinessneeds• FinancialImplications–Understandthefinancialrequirementsandpotentialpitfallssurroundingsuccession• BusinessAssessment–Identifyyourfamilybusinessstrengths,challengesandphilosophies• Communication–Reviewbestpracticesinfamilycommunications• FlexibleSolutions–Identifysuccessionalternativesforvaryingfamilyandbusinessneeds• PracticalApproach–Exploreproven,real-worldstepsinmanagementsuccessionandassettransition• LegalIssues–Learnthelegalconsiderationsandbestpracticesforsuccessionandestateplans• Buy/SellAgreements–Identifyoptionsforfundingandstructuringbuy/sellagreements• RoadMapforSuccess–Developpracticalnextstepsinbuildingsuccessionplans• ExpertPerspective–MeetandlearnfromexpertsinsuccessionplanningandNorthwestFCS’staff

Who Should AttendAll family members impacted by management succession and asset transition.

What Participants Say “We now have a great start going into our transition. This was the push we needed to communicate, ask the right questions and make decisions.” “This seminar has opened up dialogues and stimulated a lot of positive family communication. We can now all go forward with cooperation – not conflict or hesitation.”

Time: 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2014 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 1, 2014Participants: 50 - 65

Fees: IndividualParticipants$450–AdditionalParticipants$350All meals provided except dinner on Friday.

Participants are responsible for lodging and travel expenses.

Attire: Business casual

Family Business Succession Planning Seminar

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Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193 11

Webinars

LeadingexpertshostNorthwestFCS’freeone-hourwebinars.Thesedynamic,web-basedprogramsprovide the opportunity for real-time question and answer sessions from the comfort of your own computer.Inthecondensedwebinarformat,expertsprovidehigh-level,actionableinformationtohelpyou make the right decisions in your business. All you need is a computer and an internet connection.

Dr. Dave Kohl – Ag Outlook September 30, 2013MajorshiftsinglobalanddomesticeconomicsimpactagriculturaloperationsthroughouttheNorthwestnowmore than ever. Economic mega trends are quickly dividing the winners and losers in the agricultural and rural landscape. Explore national and global agricultural trends that directly affect your operation.

Dr. Ed Seifried – Economic Outlook and Interest Rates DiscussionOctober 25, 2013 & January 17, 2014Join Wall Street economist, Dr. Ed Seifried, as he helps economics make sense for your business. These webinars focus on interpreting recent headlines with an eye on the economy’s past, present and future direction. Gaininsightoninterestrates,contextformakingbusinessdecisionsandkeyinformationtohelpdevelopassumptions in budgets and business plans.

Dr. Dave Kohl – Practical Strategic PlanningNovember 25, 2013Strategic planning is critical to business success, but taking the first steps to develop a formal plan can be daunting. Dave Kohl shares how to kick-start the planning process and develop a strategic plan that works for you and is right-sized for your business.

Rich Thornton – Succession Planning ToolsDecember 2, 2013Managing asset transition and management succession are two top issues that determine success or failure for agricultural businesses. This webinar provides the nuts and bolts for a successful transfer of management responsibilitiesandassetstothenextgenerationofleadersandownersinyourbusiness.Learnhowtobea‘cutabove’ the competition by executing strategy and avoiding succession pitfalls.

Dr. Alex White – Personal Finance February 13, 2014Personalfinancialmanagementisacriticalelementofeveryone’ssuccess.Learnthefundamentalsofbudgeting, managing personal debt, credit scores, savings, investing, insurance, and college funds. Dr. White helps participants understand these issues and take control of their financial future.

Dr. Deb Houden – Family Business BasicsFebruary 25, 2014Workinginfamilybusinesshasrewardsandchallenges.Learnhigh-levelstrategiestocommunicate,worktogether and make decisions more effectively in your family business. Also gain insights and tools for building a shared vision for the future.

Who Should AttendAnyone interested in the topics above. Northwest FCS’ webinars are open to everyone.

Times: Times vary – check northwestfcs.com/register for more details Fees: No charge

Customized AgendaWe customize each session to meet your unique needs with a framework that builds a strong foundation be-fore addressing key questions and hot button issues. Our focus on creating alignment between the business and people helps generate understanding and buy-in from everyone. A high-level agenda might include:

Build the Foundation: -Discuss family business basics -Establish effective communication -Learnskillsforhealthydecision-makingandconflictresolution

Develop the Plan: -Build a strategic plan for the business -Build a succession plan for people and roles -Build an estate plan for business and non-business assets

Address the Issues: -Strategic problem solving to address key questions and hot button issues

Follow-Through: -Develop goals and action items to define next steps and establish accountability

OutcomesFacilitated planning sessions lead to direct results and a solid plan for the future. Key outcomes include: -More effective communication -Clarity in roles, decision-making and chain of command -A shared foundation in family business basics -Answers to the ‘tough’ questions -A common vision -A documented plan to move forward

The DetailsLength: Planning sessions typically run 2 days, but may vary depending on the group’s needs.Location: Flexible, to accommodate a productive group setting.Fees: Based on an hourly rate plus travel and meeting expenses.

OverviewNorthwest FCS’ Business Management Center offers custom facilitation and planning services to help families and businesses answer questions like, “How do we…”

• Buildanonrampforsuccessors? • Designanestateplanthat’sbusinesssmartandfamilyfriendly? • Communicateinawaythatinspiresdialogueandallowsforhealthyconflictandresolution? • Createclarityinourrolesandresponsibilities? • Gettherightpeopleonourbus,andthewrongpeopleoff? • Developasharedvisionandalignourefforts?

Answering these questions is tough for any business and especially challenging for family businesses where colleagues are relatives. Facilitated planning can help, providing a constructive and safe setting to build consensus.

One-On-One Strategic Planning and Facilitation

Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/register

To learn more, call or email the BMC at 866-552-9193 or bmc@northwestfcs.com.

What we do:We facilitate discussions that create solutions based on clients’ insights and our experience working with hundreds of other businesses.

What we don’t do:We don’t provide technical solutions (we’re

not attorneys or accountants) and we don’t tell participants what to do (we’re not advisors).

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Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193

For more information about Michael and Carl’s backgrounds, refer to the bios on page 14

Feedback from customers best illustrates the impact facilitation and planning can have. The following comments reflect results of the process for several customers:

• “Ileftwithanincrediblesenseofrenewedvisionandhopeforourfamily,andforthetraditionthatisourfarm.”

• “Ithoughtthiswasanawesomeexperienceasafamilyandabusiness.Creatingtheplantopursueouropportunities has provided a sense of teamwork and security.”

• “Thiswasfastmovingandenergetic,yetthorough.Iappreciatedavenuewithaskilledfacilitatortohelpusunderstand questions and issues we needed to explore and ways to break them down.”

• “Thesessionwasstructured,comfortableandcomplete.Thetopicscoveredbuiltafoundationfortheimportant,big questions. There weren’t any unorganized or unproductive conversations. It feels like we accomplished something real and validating.”

• “Ican’tbelievethatourjourneyoffamilysuccessionstartedayearago!Thosefirsttwodaysofmeetingsplayedasignificant role in starting our succession process, but even more so, the take-aways helped us guide the process in a positive and successful manner. Our plan update was a wonderful review and reminder of the successes that we have had and I think it also gave us enthusiasm and momentum to move forward and further develop key areas.”

Meet the FacilitatorsWe have two facilitators on staff, both with a passion for strategy and people. Each grew up in agriculture and their own family businesses. We select the facilitator that will best meet your specific needs.

Michael Stolp Vice President, Market Research and DevelopmentCertified Family Business Advisor

Michael’s enthusiasm and insight for business, strategy and family dynamics are well grounded in his family business background and work with hundreds of Northwest farms, ranches and agribusinesses. By participating in his family’s farm and ranch, three generations have formed Michael’s perspective and empathy for family business. Michael earned his master’s degree in agribusiness from Purdue University and worked forCargillandCenex/LandO’LakesbeforejoiningNorthwestFCS.Hisworkwithfamilybusinessesreflectshisexperience and unique background in customer and industry insights. Michael is a member of the American SocietyofAgriculturalConsultantsandtheFamilyFirmInstitute.

Carl SohnBusiness Management Center CoordinatorFamily Business Facilitator

Carl’s passion for business and strategy comes from his personal experience as a third generation owner in his family’s timber and ranching business based in Roseburg, Oregon. Carl lived the strategic planning process first-hand as his family tackled tough questions and developed a unified vision and plan for the future. Now, as a member of the Family Council, Carl stays involved in key decisions and participates in providing high-level directiontotheboardofdirectors.Carlearnedhismaster’sdegreeinorganizationalleadershipfromGonzagaUniversity, where he focused on the dynamics of family business and strategic planning. Carl is a member of the American Society of Agricultural Consultants and the Family Firm Institute.

One-On-One Strategic Planning and Facilitation Customer Comments

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Michael Stolp – Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from Washington State University and his master’s degree in agricultural economics from Purdue University. His agribusinessexperienceincludesworkingwithCargillandCenex/LandO’Lakes.Today,MichaelisNorthwestFCS’VicePresidentofMarketResearchandDevelopment.Inthisrole,MichaelleadsNorthwest FCS’ market research, Knowledge Center, Business Management Center and is a facilitatorfortheBMC.MichaelisamemberoftheFamilyFirmInstitute,afacultymemberofTheExecutive Program for Agricultural Producers (TEPAP) and is a Certified Family Business Advisor. Michael grew up in Sprague, Washington, where his family owns a farm and ranch. Michael and his wife, Jeanine, have a daughter and live in Spokane, Washington.

Northwest FCS Facilitators and Staff

Carl Sohn – Carl received a bachelor’s degree in management and finance from Boston College andamaster’sinorganizationalleadershipandservantleadershipfromGonzagaUniversity.Heis a member of the American Society for Agricultural Consultants. Carl began his Northwest FCS careerin2005withtheCapitalMarketsGroup,wherehewasaSeniorCreditOfficer.Inhiscurrentrole as BMC Coordinator, Carl is responsible for customer education programs and is a facilitator for the BMC. Carl grew up in Roseburg, Oregon, where his family owns a third generation timberland company and ranch operation. Carl is a member of his family’s Family Council and a graduate of the WashingtonAgForestryLeadershipProgram.HeandhiswifeNicole,liveinSpokane,Washington,wheretheyenjoycookingandfood,spendingtimeoutdoors,fishingandtravel.

Linda Hendricksen –AsSeniorVicePresidentofMarketing,LindacurrentlyoverseesNorthwestFCS’ marketing, communications, public relations, research, events and legislative activities and the company’s Business Management Center and Knowledge Center. She also facilitates planning sessionsforemployeeteamsandothers.LindagraduatedfromMontanaStateUniversitywithadegree in business. She is also a partner in her family’s Montana wheat operation.

Dr. Deb Houden – Deb Houden, Ph.D, is the Director of the University of Wisconsin Family Business CenterandaconsultantwiththeFamilyBusinessConsultingGroup.Dr.Houdenhelpsfamiliesinbusiness, concentrating on family communication, transition and next generation development. Deb has lectured in various courses at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, including InterpersonalCommunication,CommunicationandConflictResolution,andIssuesinFamilyBusiness Ownership at the Wisconsin School of Business.

Dr. Don Jonovic – An advisor to business owners since 1973, Don focuses on family business leadership development, succession and ownership transition. His consulting practice has included industrial and agricultural clients throughout North America, and he serves on 15 private company boards. Don’s management column in Successful Farming reaches more than one million readers every month, and has been one of the most popular features in that magazine since inception of the column in 1984.

External Facilitators

Heidi Whitman – Heidi earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Eastern WashingtonUniversity.InhercurrentroleasEventCoordinator,Heidiisresponsiblefortheplanningand execution of all corporate, internal training and Business Management Center events. Heidi grew up in Washtucna, Washington, where her family owns and operates a dry land wheat farm. Heidiandherhusband,Greg,havetwochildrenandliveinCheney,Washington.

Registration and details: northwestfcs.com/register14

Business Management Center Faculty and Staff

External Facilitators (Cont.)

Wayne Rivers –Wayneistheco-founderandpresidentofTheFamilyBusinessInstitute,Inc.,inRaleigh North Carolina. He also runs the Peer Excellence for Agricultural Knowledge™ program which helps farm CEOs make more money in less time with fewer headaches through a process of peer review and accountability. Wayne is the author of three books on family businesses and has written hundreds of articles. He has appeared on the Today Show, CNN, MSNBC and CNBC and is quoted in the Wall Street Journal and Business Week.

Dr. Dave Kohl – Dave is Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Finance and Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics at Virginia Tech. Dave currently energizes agricultural lenders, producers and business people with his keen insight into the agricultural industry gained through extensive travel, research and exposure during his career. He has traveled more than eight million miles, conducted more than 8,000 workshops and published more than 1,300 articles.

Dr. Alex White – Alex was raised on a small farm in northeastern Maryland. Alex has taught a wide variety of courses at Ohio State, NC State and Virginia Tech for the past 20 years. He has also served as an extension specialist in agribusiness management and personal financial management for VirginiaCooperativeExtension.Currently,AlexisanadjunctprofessorofDairyScienceatVirginiaTech, as well as a financial advisor and business consultant.

Dinner Speaker: Dr. Lance Fox – Dr. Fox is a technical service veterinarian in the dairy feed industry.HeisbasedinNewLondon,Wisconsin,withhiswifeandcolleagueDr.KatherineFoxandtheirtwoteenagers,JordanandBailee.OnMay21,2009Lancefulfilleda12-yeardreambybecoming one of less than 5,000 people in the world to stand on the world’s highest point, the summitofMountEverest.Lanceshareshisexperienceandinspiresaudiencesacrosstheworldtodare to dream and overcome life’s obstacles.

Rich Thornton–TheFirmDirectorofBOSSImplementationforMossAdamsLLP,RichThorntonspecializes in business ownership and estate transition planning. Rich’s experience in working with farm families and practical, easy-to-understand approach make him a leader in farm business asset transfer.

Dr. Ed Seifried –EdisProfessorEmeritusofEconomicsandBusinessatLafayetteCollegeinEaston,Pennsylvania.HeisalsotheChiefEconomistform.raeresourcesInc.,acommunitybankinvestment firm. Ed frequently appears as a guest speaker at regional and national conferences and has delivered over 2,000 presentations to various groups both in the United States and abroad. Ed has traveled extensively in the former Soviet Bloc countries where he served as an advisor and consultant to newly privatized commercial banks.

Questions: bmc@northwestfcs.com or call 866.552.9193 15

Dennis Bigness – Dennis Bigness began his career with Northwest FCS more than 25 years ago and currently serves customers throughout Washington’s Columbia Basin and Yakima Valley as an Agribusiness Relationship Manager/Vice President. Dennis grew up on a cattle and timber ranch in Newport, Washington. He graduated from Washington State University in agricultural economics andanimalscience.DennisisalsoagraduateoftheWashingtonAgForestryLeadershipprogram.

Wendy Knopp – Wendy began her career with Northwest FCS shortly after graduating from GonzagaUniversitywithamaster’sdegreeinadministrationandorganizationalleadership.AsVicePresident of Northwest FCS’ AgVision program she oversees programs that meet the unique needs of young, beginning and small producers.

Valentin Celaya – Valentin Celaya began his career with Northwest FCS more than 15 years ago andcurrentlyservescustomersthroughoutIdahoasanAgribusinessRelationshipManager/VicePresident.Valentingrewuponhisgrandparents’rowcropfarminGooding,Idaho,andgraduatedfromtheUniversityofIdahowithabachelor’sdegreeinagriculturaleconomics.HeisalsoagraduateoftheWesternAgBankingSchoolandLeadershipIdahoAgriculture.

John Gates – John has served Northwest FCS customers throughout central and eastern Montana for29years.JohnisanativeMontanan,raisedincentralMontananearLewistown.Hewaseducatedat Montana State University in Bozeman, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in range resource management and agricultural economics.

Northwest FCS Learning Leaders

Andrea Krahmer – Andrea Krahmer began her career with Northwest FCS 10 years ago and currently serves customers throughout northwest Oregon as a Relationship Manager/Assistant Vice President. Andrea grew up on a small, part-time farm in Banks, Oregon and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business management from Oregon State University. She, her husband and two kids live in Salem, Oregon on a small farm.

Paul Nelson – Paul has served Northwest FCS customers throughout Montana for 19 years and is currently Senior Vice President-Appraisal Services and Policy. Paul comes from a durum wheat and livestock operation in northwest North Dakota and has a B.S. degree in agricultural finance from North Dakota State University and a MBA from the University of Montana.

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Business Management Center Faculty and Staff

Northwest FCS Learning Leaders (Cont.)

Herb Sanders – Herb has financed the agricultural and forest products industries for more than 30 years in various positions at Northwest FCS. He is currently an Agribusiness Relationship Manager/Vice President. Herb holds a degree in agricultural engineering from Montana State University. He is also a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School.

Erien Preus – Erien Preus has worked for Northwest FCS for seven years, serving customers throughoutsouthernIdahoasanAgribusinessCreditOfficer/AssistantVicePresident.Eriengrewup on a cattle operation in White Salmon, Washington. She graduated from Washington State Universityinagribusinessandnaturalresources.ErienisalsoagraduateoftheLeadershipIdahoAgriculture program.

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