Introducing Olivia Wightman: Ag Lender and Relationship Manager

We’re excited to introduce Olivia Wightman, the newest member of our Ag team! Olivia interned with our Ag department in 2023, and it was clear she would be an amazing candidate to add to team F&M.  Since joining our team, she’s already rolled up her sleeves to represent F&M Bank at the Farmers Livestock Exchange in Winchester, showcasing our strong connection to the agricultural community and our unique services.

 

agriculture lender Olivia Wightman ag lending farm lending

My name is Olivia Wightman, and I am from Edinburg, Virginia. In my family, I have my dad, Bryon, my mom, Karen, and my brother, Gus. Agriculture has always been a passion of mine; this sparked during my time in high school when I joined FFA and served as an officer. This experience encouraged me to pursue a career in agriculture. At college, I majored in Agribusiness Management with a minor in Professional Sales. I was actively involved in campus life, joining Alpha Delta Pi and I was a sweetheart for Alpha Gamma Rho. Additionally, I was the president of the National Agri-Marketing Association during my senior year. This spring, I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Virginia Tech. Last summer, I interned at F&M Bank, spending five weeks in the agriculture department and another five weeks in the credit department. I knew that becoming an ag lender was something that interested me, so I decided to make a career out of it!

 

To help you get to know Olivia a bit better, we decided a round of 21 Questions (it’s really only 12) was in order.

 

Why F&M? What made you want to join our team?

I interned in the summer of 2023, and I really enjoyed it. Agriculture has always been a passion of mine and to be able to help the agriculture community and to be a helpful resource is super important to me. Additionally, I knew that F&M was a fit because of the culture and how welcoming F&M was to me!

 

What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute to your work ethic, and why?

I would say being optimistic and having a determined attitude contribute a lot to my work ethic.

 

The four core values that F&M holds dear are Gregarious, Resolute, Original, and Wholehearted. Which of these values resonates with you the most? Why?

I would say “wholehearted” resonates with me the most because I consider myself a person who goes the extra mile to make someone happy, and I care about relationships with others.

 

How do you start your day? What gets you going?

I start my day with a cup of coffee and listening to music. (country specifically)

 

What is your hidden talent?

If I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret.

 

What’s an accomplishment that you’re really proud of?

Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Virginia Tech and making the dean’s list all eight semesters.

 

What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?

Going to the gym after work.

 

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Eating popcorn and watching literally anything on Netflix.

 

What’s the top destination on your must-visit list?

Greece.

 

If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?

My superpower would be to read minds!

 

What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

Even when you do not believe in yourself, it is important to keep going. You might not think you’re good at something, but with practice and determination, you might surprise yourself.

 

List three items on your bucket list

Go outside the country.

Go to Pig Island.

Learn how to snowboard.

 

If you could quickly and easily learn any new skill, what would it be?

Juggling.

 

To learn more about our ag products or about our ag team, contact agribusiness@fmbankva.com or Olivia directly!

 

Customer Appreciation on Eclipse Day 2024

Join us for a special Customer Appreciation event at participating branches and locations on Eclipse Day, April 8th! While Virginia may not be in the path of totality, we’re still celebrating with gusto. F&M turned 115 last August, and the eclipse totality is 115 miles wide—so that sounds like a great reason to have a little party!

Join the fun and visit your preferred banking center for eclipse-themed snacks and sunny smiles as we celebrate this momentous occasion!

Shenandoah Valley Spring Fires: Emergency Donations Needed

As our local fire and rescue departments battle against the raging fires that threaten our communities, it is crucial that we stand united and extend a helping hand. These brave men and women are working around the clock, risking their lives to contain the flames and protect lives and property.

F&M Bank has always prioritized supporting our local first responders and is committed to doing our part to donate to those who protect our communities. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our local fire and rescue departments have the necessary support to combat these fires effectively. Remember, even the smallest contribution can make a significant impact. Whether it’s donating supplies, giving financial assistance, or spreading awareness, every act of support counts.

Listed below are links and contact information for various organizations that are actively seeking supplies or monetary donations. If there is an organization not listed that you know is in need of assistance, please email marketing@fmbankva.com with donation details.

Learn how you can get involved with local departments in need below:

 

Bergton Fire Department

Bergton Fire Department is accepting food supplies such as water, Gatorade, peanut butter, crackers, snack foods, and other non-perishables. Hygiene necessities such as baby wipes are also very helpful.  These supplies or monetary donations can be either dropped off at or mailed to 18140 Crab Run Rd, Bergton, VA 22811

Contact Phone Number: (540) 852-3331

Facebook Page

 

Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company

Monetary donations can be submitted online at this link: BVFC Donations

Contact Phone Number: (540) 828-3121

Facebook Page

 

Broadway Volunteer Fire Department

Broadway Volunteer Fire Department is accepting food supplies such as water, Gatorade, peanut butter, crackers, snack foods and other non-perishables. Hygiene necessities such as baby wipes are also very helpful.  These supplies or monetary donations can be either dropped off at or mailed to 117 N Central St, Broadway, VA 22815

Contact Phone Number: (540) 896-5101

Facebook Page

 

Clover Hill Volunteer Fire Co.

Clover Hill Volunteer Fire Co. does not currently need material donations. However, monetary donations to replenish its funds can be mailed to 2100 Clover Hill Rd, Dayton, VA 22821.  Donations can also be made on its website: www.cloverhillfd.com

Contact Phone Number: (540) 879-9930

 

New Market Fire & Rescue

New Market Fire & Rescue is asking for donations of water, Gatorade, peanut butter, crackers, snack foods, and non-perishables. They are also in need of baby wipes.  Donations can be delivered to their station at 9771 S Congress St, New Market, VA 22844. 

Contact Phone Number: (540) 740-8904

Facebook Page

 

Luray Fire Department

Supplies and donations can be delivered directly to their station at 1 Fire House Ln, Luray, VA 22835.

Monetary donations can be submitted online at this link: LFD Donations

Contact Phone Number: (540) 743-5585

Facebook Page

 

Rockingham County Department of Fire & Rescue

Donations of food, medical supplies, hygiene necessities, or monetary donations can be dropped off at the Port Republic Road Emergency Response Station at 2654 Port Republic Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.

Contact Phone Number: (540) 433-1389

Facebook Page

 

Shenandoah County Department of Fire & Rescue

SCD Fire & Rescue is not currently in need of material donations.  If you wish to contribute monetarily, please contact Stacy McFarland with the American Red Cross at: 681-247-9472

Facebook Page

 

Shenandoah Fire Department

Supplies and donations can be delivered directly to their station at 201 Pennsylvania Ave, Shenandoah, VA 22849. 

Contact Phone Number: (540) 652-8888

 

Stanley Volunteer Fire Department

Supplies and donations can be delivered directly to their station at 190 E Main St, Stanley, VA 22851. 

Monetary donations can be submitted online at this link: SVFD Donations

Contact Phone Number: (540) 778-3177

Facebook Page

 

Woodstock Fire Department

WFD is currently not in need of material donations. However you may make a financial donation at the link below:

WFD Donations

Contact Phone Number: (540) 459-3242

Facebook Page

 

A Season of Generosity: F&M Employees Join Together for Collective Impact

Embracing the season’s generosity, F&M employees have once more showcased their dedication to community and compassion. In the current year, employees took part in a survey to recommend non-profit organizations for a unique surprise donation to celebrate the Giving Season. We are thrilled to announce this year’s #GivingTuesday recipients: EAUS, Camp LIGHT, and Response. Each organization receives a $2,500 contribution to support their admirable missions.

Empowering Dreams with EAUS

Elkton Area United Services (EAUS) is a comprehensive social service agency serving eastern Rockingham County since 1972, that provides assistance with housing, electricity, heat, food, GED classes, school supplies, books, aid to stranded travelers, senior citizen activities, and a joyful holiday season to those in need. Visit this link to see how you can help https://elktonatheart.org/how-you-can-help-eaus

Board members and F&M bank employees hold a donation check in front of EAUS building sign

Illuminating Lives with Camp LIGHT

Camp LIGHT began with a simple notion that ‘every kid deserves the chance to experience the joys of summer camp.’ Fun, it turns out, helps children to reach beyond their challenges to discover new strength, hope and resilience. Programs help families release the emotional, physical, and financial burdens caused by serious childhood diagnoses and provide a peer network that reaches far beyond the LIGHT of a summer campfire. Support Camp LIGHT here https://www.creativeworksfarm.org/ and be sure to check out Christmas Wonderland this holiday season!

Rapid Relief with Response

Response is Shenandoah County’s only agency dedicated to assisting those affected by sexual and domestic violence. Begun in 1980 as a grassroots effort to fill a need in its community, Response has grown over the years to now have an 18-bed shelter for women and children and extensive supportive services for survivors, both in- and out-of-shelter. Response advocates serve men, women, and children who are survivors of intimate partner and domestic violence; this includes victims of physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. Show support for Response by visiting their donation page: https://www.responseva.org/make-a-donation

Response board members and F&M Bank employees hold a donation check in celebration of Giving Tuesday

Why Give on Giving Tuesday? Incredible things happen when we unite for the greater good.

Falling right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday is a meaningful counterbalance to the material gift-driven days preceding it. It’s a reminder that the holiday season is not just about shopping but also about giving and making a positive impact. In the true spirit of Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join us in celebrating compassion, community, and collective impact. Let’s make this Giving Tuesday a powerful testament to the impact we can create when we come together.

A Driving Force in Agriculture’s Future

Agriculture stands as a cornerstone of the Valley’s economy, contributing significantly to its growth and prosperity. An essential aspect of sustaining this vital industry is fostering the involvement of the younger generation. Friday, August 18, F&M Bank had the privilege of participating in the Market Animal Show & Sale at the 75th Annual Rockingham County Fair, making a resounding statement of support for individual exhibitors and the broader agricultural community. The event was not only a celebration of hard work and dedication but also a reminder of the critical role youth play in shaping the future of agriculture.

A Driving Force in Agriculture’s Future

The Market Animal Show & Sale was a testament to the immense value that youth participation brings to the world of agriculture. Eight exceptional individuals – Jamie Humes, Nolan Driver, Kenley Rhodes, Aden Bazzle, Kolton Hoover, Sawyer Wilkins, Allison Rhodes, and Kaley Runion – showcased their commitment and expertise by presenting animals that represented months of hard work, dedication, and learning. We were proud to support these individuals by purchasing their animals. The active involvement of these young exhibitors demonstrates how the agricultural industry can be rejuvenated and fortified through their passion and enthusiasm.

 

Collaborative Efforts

We would like to thank Integrity Insurance (Brian Showalter – Ag Board), G&M Sales of Virginia, Inc. (Rick Reeves – Ag Board) and Kim Showalter (Ag Board) for their partnership this year in purchasing animals.  We would also like to thank Matt Robinson – F&M Investments for contributing to our efforts as well! The support extended by these organizations showcases a collective commitment to nurturing the Valley’s agricultural legacy.

 

A Testament to Youth’s Dedication

The heartening results of the Market Animal Show & Sale speak volumes about the dedication of the youth exhibitors and the community’s willingness to support them. With a total of 267 young exhibitors and a staggering 655 animals marketed, the event raised over $1,080,000 in funds. These numbers underscore the resilience of the agricultural industry and the potential for growth when individuals, businesses, and the youth unite for a common cause.

Looking into the Future

The Market Animal Show & Sale at the 75th Annual Rockingham County Fair encapsulates the spirit of unity, dedication, and collaboration needed to secure the Valley’s agricultural future. The Bank’s participation, alongside the support of organizations and individuals, sends a powerful message: youth involvement is the bedrock on which a thriving agricultural community is built. By recognizing and nurturing the potential within our young exhibitors, we collectively sow the seeds of prosperity that will sustain the Valley’s economy for generations to come.

F&M Celebrates 115 Years

Locally Grown Since 1908

In a world where institutions come and go, reaching a milestone of 115 years is a testament to unwavering trust and exceptional service. F&M Bank celebrated its 115th birthday with celebrations at each of our 14 branches throughout the valley. This event not only honored the bank’s legacy but also extends its gratitude to the loyal customers who have been an integral part of this journey. These celebrations reflect the values that have guided the bank for over a century – trust, excellence, and a genuine commitment to its customers and community.

 

Branch Celebrations

On August 24, all F&M branches hosted customer appreciation events. These events provided an opportunity to personally thank each customer for their loyalty and trust, fostering a sense of belonging that goes beyond mere transactions. While each branch hosted a slightly different gathering, they all had sweet treats from local bakers and giveaways available for clients to take part in.

See all of our branch celebrations here!

115 Winners

It never hurts to earn a little extra cash, right? 115 lucky checking account customers were randomly selected to win $115! Why? As our way of saying thanks. As part of our customer appreciation celebrations, 115 names of customers with checking accounts opened prior to May 17, 2023, were chosen at random to win this prize. Branch managers have been calling these customers to let them know of their good fortune.

One of our lucky winners pictured with Assistant Branch Manager, Katie Robertson and F&M Mascot, Sammie the Squirrel

Looking Ahead

While we will continue celebrating for the rest of the year, we look forward to serving you for many years to come. We are dedicated to serving our loyal clients and strive to provide the best banking experience for our neighbors and community members.

 

F&M Bank, Wealth Management, Ag & Mortgage Named Shenandoah Valley’s Best

On June 1, several F&M Bank associates spent a beautiful afternoon at Bluestone Vineyard celebrating with several hundred other businesses nominated for Shenandoah Valley’s Best, an annual contest organized by Harrisonburg Radio Group. The program showcases and celebrates the businesses, people, and places the Shenandoah Valley loves most — as voted by listeners.

We wish to thank our incredible community for voting for us in the 2023 Shenandoah Valley Best contest. We’re honored to have brought home Gold for Best Bank and Best Wealth Management Firm, and Silver for Best Ag Lender and Best #Mortgage Lender.

Check out this year’s contest and prior year’s winners at https://www.shenandoahvalleybest.com/categories/2023

Pictured above (left to right): Terri Bradley, Barton Black, Kevin Russell, Katherine Preston, Charles Driest, Kate Bray, Mike Wilkerson, Lista Campbell, Holly Thorne, Matt Robinson.

 

F&M Bank Named “Best of Virginia”

BOV2023_WinnerBadge

Virginia Living Magazine has released its annual 176-page statewide guide listing the more than 1,500 winners from its January readers’ survey. Nearly half a million votes were cast in 104 categories, covering the best in Food & Drink, Living & Recreation, Services, and Shopping across the Commonwealth’s five regions.

“We are delighted to be among the top three financial institutions named Best of Virginia in the Shenandoah Valley region. Since 1908, our team has been grateful to play a part in the growth of the Shenandoah Valley economy and today remains more committed than ever to the success of our neighbors, the agricultural industry, small business ventures, and the nonprofit sector,” said Holly Thorne, F&M Bank’s director of marketing.

The twelfth annual Best of Virginia issue is available by subscription and at newsstands, including select Barnes & Noble, Kroger, Wegmans, Publix, Harris Teeter, Books-A-Million, and Target stores. Learn more at VirginiaLiving.com. View the digital edition here https://issuu.com/capefear/docs/2023_bov_issuu

Press release content courtesy of Virginia Living Magazine. CONTACT: Vayda Tarleton, Associate Editor, Special Projects, VaydaTarleton@CapeFear.com, 804-343-0778

F&M Bank’s 2023 Community Shred Day Events

One in 14 will become a victim of identity theft. Protect your identity by safely disposing of personal documents at our Community Shred Days at a location near you.

Please note: This event may end early if the Shred-It truck reaches full capacity. Limit of five “banker boxes”/bags per customer.

Crossroads (Harrisonburg)
Friday, April 21st, 2:00 PM -5:00 PM

Stuarts Draft
Friday, May 12th, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Edinburg 
Saturday, May 20th, 9:00 AM – 12:00PM

Staunton (Myers Corner)
Friday, May 26th, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Bridgewater
Friday, June 2nd, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Staunton (N. Augusta St.)
Friday, September 1st, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Crossroads (Harrisonburg)
Friday, September 8th, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Woodstock
Friday, October 13th, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Winchester (Amherst Street)
Saturday, October 21st, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Broadway
Friday, October 27th, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Find a location near you

Learn more about F&M Bank’s Identity Theft Protection Service, provided free with Cash Back and Cash Back Plus Checking

“Fraud Department” Text Scam

We have been made aware of an unsolicited text and phone call scam circulating through our area. In this reported case, a customer received a text message that appears to be from the F&M Bank fraud department. The text message asks for a simple reply – YES, if you initiated a transaction, or NO, if the charge is fraudulent. Two sample images are below for your convenience.
Text Fraud

When the customer responded “NO” and denied the charge, the criminal fraudster followed up with a phone call. The caller ID also appears to be from F&M Bank, Timberville. The caller claimed to from the F&M Bank “fraud department” and asked the customer for more information. The customer became suspicious and began asking questions of the fraudster leading to the fraudster ending the call.

Unfortunately, fraudsters can configure a text message or phone call to appear to come from any source. This scam is extremely dangerous because it seems legitimate. To best protect yourself, never give out your confidential information over the phone or via text.

Our fraud detection services will text, email, or call clients if a transaction is suspicious; however, our platform will not place a follow-up call after a transaction has been confirmed valid/fraudulent or ask for you to provide sensitive information. 

If you receive such a call or text message, do not respond. Contact your local F&M Branch using a number you know to be valid. Do not use numbers contained in the caller ID on your mobile phone.

Here are our tips on how to recognize text scams.