Savannah and Todd Dickinson
Family: Savannah and Todd Dickinson live in Gentry, Ark., with their two children, Aubrey and Dax.
In Town: “I have worked for Farm Credit of Western Arkansas in Siloam Springs, Ark., in a two-person office for the last 8 1/2 years where I am a loan officer/branch manager,” said Savannah. “Most of our loans are agriculturally related, either for purchasing a farm or building new facilities, but we also do country lifestyle loans such as home construction loans.
“My husband, Todd, has worked for Simmons Foods also in Siloam Springs for 7 years in research and development where he and his team develop products for national restaurant chains. He also ensures product quality and production efficiency.”
In the Country: “Our country life is all about the children. We purchased a small acreage almost two years ago. Todd and I were both used to living in the country, and wanted our children be a part of that lifestyle.
“Soon after we purchased the land, we built a livestock barn to raise show pigs. The barn contains farrowing facilities, a wash station and pens. We show pigs in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. Aubrey is 5 and has shown in many jackpot shows in Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Her favorite accomplishment was winning the Cloverbud show at the Benton County Fair with her pig, Sprinkles. One of our favorite family videos is of our son Dax, who was 2 at the time, walking Aubrey’s show pig, Rosie, with his pacifier in his mouth.
“In addition to the pigs, we raise club goats for the children to show later.”
Future Plans: “We intend to buy more land and in 10 years we would like to have expanded both herds and have the kids showing both pigs and goats in the region. Aubrey is now in 4-H and loves showing. Although, Dax is too young, he will probably join 4-H as soon as he is eligible. Our plan is for the children to be very active in livestock activities and carry the memories and values of an agricultural lifestyle with them throughout their lives.”
