2008 Archives
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC Helps Finance The Farm Of Tomorrow in Cumberland County
HARRISBURG, PA (March 3, 2008) - The Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (HRC/CREDC) announced today that it provided financing to Rock Solid Dairy, Inc. to purchase a 157 acre existing dairy farm located in Shippensburg, Cumberland County, PA. This particular farm contains a very modern milking parlor and herd barn with the most advanced milking equipment and automated systems available for monitoring and maintaining milk quality.
Rock Solid Dairy, LLC is a newly formed company created for the purpose of buying and operating an ultra modern dairy with about a 300 cow herd at the location in Cumberland County. The members of this LLC are all family. Clifford and Maggie Hawbaker are current CREDC clients and one of our first First Industry Agriculture loans. Cliff has over 50 years of dairy experience. Zane and Juanita Garber are Cliff and Maggie's son-in-law and daughter. Currently, Zane and Juanita operate a 100-125 cow dairy and have done so for the last 3 years. Zane has the same agricultural background as Juanita, Cliff and Maggie. He grew up in the dairy and farming industry and is looking to build his legacy in that field.
"We want to thank CREDC for the financial loan to assist in starting Rock Solid Dairy," stated Cliff Hawbaker. "The purchase of this 157 acre farm with a 300 cow dairy facility will give the opportunity for Zane and Juanita to fulfill their dream of owning and operating a modern dairy."
HRC/CREDC provided a First Industries Agricultural loan of $200,000 in conjunction with the financing from Farmers & Merchants Trust Co., USDA Farm Service Agency, and additional equity contributions. Total project costs were $2,350,000. The project is expected to create 7 full-time jobs.
The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), is the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber, and is the leading organization for promoting and performing economic development activities in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties. The group offers a variety of programs and resources to help attract, retain and expand business in the region.
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry Counties by providing a unique blend of business, community and economic development and advocacy services under one roof to boost our economic vitality and livability as a region. HRC/CREDC has been accredited with four stars from the United States Chamber of Commerce.
