On the Road Again...

Angie Day • January 28, 2026

On the Road Again

I know I have talked about the NAFDMA Member Map benefit before, but I now have a personal story to add to the magic of this amazing member benefit.  It all started with a road trip.


Rocks and Dinosaurs

Our middle child has had an interest in Geology and Paleontology for many years, and we looked into various school options for him to pursue a university degree in these areas.  After visiting several schools, he settled on a smaller university located in South Dakota.  It is a great fit for him, and I can report that he is living his best life at his new school.  For anyone who may not know, mwe live in Indiana, so it is not a short drive to get him and his things to school.  But, he is allowed a vehicle his freshman year, and just to be safe and provide him with the flexibility of enjoying the neighboring Black Hills of South Dakota, we decided to drive his car out there.


The Interstate Blues

Things were great for the first several hours.  Conversation, fun, and snacks were in abundance during our drive, and my husband and I were relishing this 1:1 time with our middle child.  And then we hit Iowa.  The car apparently did not like Iowa and decided to show its displeasure.  After the 10th time of letting the car take a break with semis racing by on the interstate, we knew we needed help.


NAFDMA Member Map to the Rescue

One of the amazing benefits of my job is knowing people all over the US, Canada, and in several areas of the world.  I pulled up the trusty NAFDMA member map on my cell phone, and immediately saw that we were about 30 miles from a great NAFDMA member.  I made a quick phone call, and within a few minutes, we had the name and number of the local mechanic they use as well as offers to come pick us up and put us up for the night if we needed a place to stay.  Luckily, we were able to limp the car along to the mechanic, get it diagnosed, get a rental car, and finish the rest of our road trip so my son got to school on time.


Thank You, Thank You, Thank You

I can never fully repay the kindness provided to my family by this amazing NAFDMA member.  The NAFDMA community truly does care for each other and helps in times of need.  This was just one personal example of the caring and compassion held within our membership.  If you have put off membership because you were not sure of the value, please let this story be a highlight of the many daily ways in which everyone helps each other.  You are not alone in this agritourism journey, and our amazing NAFDMA members are here to have your back in times of need.

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