Buckeye People

From the cotton fields in the South Plains of West Texas and broilers and cattle of Shenandoah Valley in Virginia to America’s Dairyland in Wisconsin and the broad diversity of pigs, sheep, corn and soybeans in Ohio, the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance’s (USFRA) next class of Faces of Farming & Ranching capture the passion behind agriculture and drive for sustainability and technology on today’s farms.

Unveiled at the National Association of Farm Broadcasting (NAFB) Convention in Kansas City, the winners include two Ohioans: Emily Buck of Marion County and Lauren Schwab from Butler County.

Buck farms with her husband John and daughter on their 1,000 acres of no-till farmland in the Lake Erie and the Mississippi River watersheds. They farm corn, soybeans and a flock of 40 Southdown ewes.

“I have different hats from the farmer, to the mother to the shepherd, but one of my big roles is an associate professor at Ohio State,” Buck said.… Continue reading

The Ohio Pork Council announced Emily Bir as the director of communications, effective immediately. Bir will serve as the media relations contact and manage all internal and external communications efforts on behalf of the Ohio Pork Council.

“We are pleased to have Emily join the Ohio Pork Council as the communications director and are confident her professional abilities will benefit the Council, and its members,” said Bill Knapke, Ohio Pork Council president. “We look forward to what Emily’s knowledge and experience will bring to the Ohio Pork Council and working with her in this position.”

Prior to joining the Ohio Pork Council, Bir served in numerous communications roles in Ohio, Michigan and New Hampshire. Most recently, she worked for Strategic Public Partners, a Columbus-based public relations firm, where she managed media relations and grassroots engagement for clients in Ohio, and across the country.

Bir began her career in Michigan where she led communications efforts for several political campaigns and offices, including the Michigan Senate Majority Leader’s office.… Continue reading

JD Equipment is proud to announce the hiring of Peter Gallant as Aftermarket Marketing Manager. Gallant is a graduate of the University of Dayton and has experience in the equipment industry, having worked previously in aftermarket management, equipment rental and equipment sales management.

His extensive equipment knowledge and aftermarket experience will help ensure JD Equipment provides a customer-focused approach to parts and service offerings and strengthens our commitment to being the area’s top agricultural and turf products dealer.

“We are committed to providing our customers with the service and parts they need to maximize their equipment uptime,” said Cody Kirkpatrick, owner and store manager at JD Equipment’s Washington Court House location. “We are investing in additional personnel and service equipment to continue supporting our customers.  Peter brings both knowledge and experience to help us continue our efforts to provide excellent customer support.”… Continue reading

Celina Industries continues to excel in all aspects of Agricultural equipment, most recently delving into the design and production of numerous styles of ventilation. It is with this in mind that Jamie Dues, Account Manager for Agriculture at Celina Industries, has undergone extensive training to become a certified Positive Pressure Tube Ventilation (PPTV) Consultant.

Through seminars at the University of Wisconsin, she has studied all of the various aspects that affect proper ventilation systems. This includes air changes per hour, ventilation design variables, and the proper amounts of fresh air required for the barn contents. As a PPTV Consultant, Jamie is able to assess any agricultural installation for the proper ventilation apparatus, providing both personalized layouts and also providing sales of Ventilation Tubing that is the proper size for the space.

Adequate ventilation is extremely important for the wellbeing of farm animals, especially when housing younger animals. Proper air flow is enough to decrease respiratory disease, minimizing any sort of draft on any livestock contained within. … Continue reading

With passionate farmers and ranchers across the country eager to share the story behind our food with consumers, the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance announced the eight finalists in its third Faces of Farming and Ranching contest. This program searches for the men and women who grow and raise food, from row crops and veggies to beef and pork, to help put real faces on agriculture. Ohioans Lauren Schwab and Emily Buck made the list.

Schwab is a freelance journalist and is employed on her family’s 1,100-sow farrow to wean swine farm in Butler County. She works as the farrowing house manager.

AUDIO: The Ohio Ag Net’s Ty Higgins visits with Schwab about being named a finalist

USFRA Faces Lauren Schwab

Buck is an Associate Professor at The Ohio State University in agricultural communication and lives and works on a Marion County grain and sheep farm with her husband John and their daughter Harlie Grace.… Continue reading

Ohio-native Chad Lee, who serves as the University of Kentucky grain crops Extension specialist, started a new role as director of the Kentucky Grains Center of Excellence.

The new center was funded in part by a grant from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board. The center’s faculty and staff, located primarily at UK’s Research and Education Center in Princeton, study water quality and sustainable methods for intensive agriculture production of grains and forages. As director, Lee will coordinate the center’s research and outreach efforts and develops and expands partnerships with agribusinesses, growers and other stakeholders while continuing his duties with grain crops through Extension.

A native of Ross County, Lee grew up on a family farm raising grain crops and swine and participated in 4-H, FFA and Farm Bureau youth programs. He received a bachelor’s in agriculture from Berea College, a master’s in agronomy from University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a doctorate in crop and soil sciences from Michigan State University.… Continue reading

Nick Zachrich began his new position as manager of the Farm Science Review on Sept.12, just days shy of when the 2016 show will open its gates.

One of the nation’s premier agricultural trade and education shows, the Farm Science Review is an annual three-day event sponsored by the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University.

Zachrich is a six-year employee of the Review, having served as site manager since 2010.

“Nick possesses a unique combination of education and experience that has prepared him well for this important role within the college,” said Roger Rennekamp, director of Ohio State University Extension, the outreach arm of the college. “Our goal is to continually improve the visitor experience while showcasing cutting-edge innovations and best practices of modern agriculture. Nick has the ability to take what he learns on a day-to-day basis and use that information to craft innovations that will help us achieve these goals.”… Continue reading

Chris Baker of Hilliard has been promoted to executive director of Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, a 501 (c) nonprofit, public charitable organization. Established in 1985, the foundation strives for measurable agricultural community improvement in Ohio by supporting projects that focus on agricultural education, the environment and economic growth in rural, suburban and urban areas. 

In his position, Baker is leading the Strong Foundation campaign, which has a goal of building a stronger Ohio by supporting local programs, funding scholarships and driving economic development. Baker joined Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation in 2015 as its director of development and has been interim executive director since April. 

Previously, Baker worked as director of development and marketing for RiteCare of Washington in Seattle and in various executive roles with Boy Scouts of America. He is a 2003 graduate of Wittenberg University with a bachelor’s degree in Russian area studies. He also is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.… Continue reading

The Ohio AgriBusiness Association (OABA) has retained Belinda Jones of Capitol Consulting Group, Inc. (CCG) for government relations work in Ohio. The partnership with Jones will allow OABA to have a full-time presence at the state capitol.

“As the state trade association for Ohio agribusinesses, OABA works every day to educate and engage public officials and strategic partners on policy issues affecting our membership,” said Chris Henney, president and CEO of OABA. “Belinda’s policy experience and background in plant nutrient and protection products will be invaluable as OABA continues to grow and strengthen our presence at Ohio’s capitol.”

Jones has more than 20 years of experience in legislative and regulatory affairs. She started her career lobbying with a Cleveland-based law firm, working on behalf of a number of trade associations, including the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association, the Ohio Professional Applicators for Responsible Regulation and more.”

After being sworn to the Ohio Bar in 1994, Jones joined The Scotts Company, the world’s leading manufacturer, formulator and marketer of lawn and garden products.… Continue reading

Photos by Meghan Bruns.

The winners by age in the Beef Outstanding Market Exhibitor competition were: (9) Carly Sanders, Fayette Co. and Garret Agle, Clark Co.; (10) Sydney Sanders, Fayette Co. and Drew Waymouth, Clark Co.; (11) Brice Phelps, Union Co.; (12) Paige Pence, Clark Co.; (13) Alex Linder, Huron Co.; (14) Allison Davis, Carroll Co.; (15) Elizabeth Heintz, Auglaize Co.; (16) Adam Kinsman, Fulton Co.; (17) Carter Roy Smith, Holmes Co.; and (18) Curtis Harsh, Delaware Co. The overall winner was Carter Roy Smith.

The winners by age in the Swine Outstanding Market Exhibitor competition were: (9) Seth Fearon, Darke Co.; (10) Jesse Stewart, Clinton Co.; (11) Luke Spracklen, Clark Co; (12) Madelyn Fearon, Darke Co.; (13) Lindsey Dore, Knox Co.; (14) Madelyn Harrison, Butler Co.; (15) Jenna Siegel, Marion Co.; (16) Micah Smock, Shelby Co.; (17) Kaci Way, Wayne Co.; and (18) Katie Siegel, Marion Co. The overall winner was Katie Siegel.… Continue reading

The Ohio Soybean Association (OSA) has announced that Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) has been named one of two Legislators of the Year in recognition of his tireless work on Trade Promotion Authority.

“TPA is a priority for OSA and Ohio soybean farmers,” said Adam Graham, OSA president and soybean farmer from Logan County. “We thank Congressman Tiberi for his dedication to seeing TPA through, as well as his continued support for farmers and Ohio’s number one industry, agriculture.”

Congressman Tiberi has represented Ohio’s 12th congressional district since 2001 and serves on the House Ways and Means Committee.

“Ohio soybean farmers rely on free trade to expand exports and reach customers in new markets,” said Congressman Tiberi. “It is vitally important that our trade agreements work for them. That is why TPA was so important to pass — to ensure we get the best trade agreements possible so Ohioans can keep their farms open and running.… Continue reading

AgriGold is excited to welcome Mike Reveal as our newest Field Advisor.

Reveal currently resides in Hillsboro with his two children and his wife. He comes to AgriGold with several years of agricultural experience.  Previously, he owned a feed, farm, and garden store for 13 years. He also brings experience to AgriGold as a current crop insurance adjuster.  Reveal enjoys sports and is very active in Highland County Pork Council and 4-H swine projects. As a Field Advisor, he will assist Corn Specialist, Kyle Wilson, in covering Highland, Adams, Ross, and Clinton Counties.  Reveal will be the face of AgriGold to customers and provide seed recommendations, agronomic information, seed delivery and other customer support services throughout the year.

He can be reached at 937-402-3333 or mike.reveal@agrigold.com.… Continue reading

Jack Irvin has been named senior director, state and national policy for Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. He will be responsible for managing the organization’s legislative and regulatory team and will represent the interests of Farm Bureau members with Congress, the General Assembly and with federal and state regulatory agencies.

Most recently, Irvin served as director of government and industry affairs with the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association where he directed development of public policy and legislative priorities at the state and national levels. He also served that organization by managing communications efforts and developing grassroots volunteers. He previously served as legislative aide to several senators including Tom Niehaus, Larry Mumper and Doug White.

He received bachelor’s degrees from Miami University in human resources and organizational behavior. He is an active member in Vista Community Church in Worthington. He and his wife, Erika, reside in Columbus with their two daughters.… Continue reading

John Linder of Edison, Ohio was elected to serve on the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) board for a three-year term during Corn Congress.

Linder is a 5th generation grain farmer with years of experience working on behalf of corn and agriculture.

“I am honored to serve this industry that is so important to my family and our country,” Linder said. “For me, it is all about giving back,” he said. “Agriculture has been so good to us, and my family has been able to enjoy farming for many years. We feel very bullish about agriculture still and love farming. The opportunity to give back and see a future for our children is motivation enough.”

During his three-year term, he will combine hands-on leadership experience that he has gained from his current and past leadership experiences. Linder is a board member of the Ohio Corn Checkoff and recently served a two-year term as chairman.… Continue reading

Congratulations to Sonny Beck and Jack Fisher, who recently received awards at the 2016 National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association’s (NAADA) Annual Conference.

At an awards banquet held in Asheville, N. C., approximately 250 people saw both donors recognized for their continual support of The Ohio State University and of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

Fisher is the first of our college’s alumni to receive NAADA’s Volunteer Service Award and Sonny received the Ruby C. McSwain Outstanding Philanthropist award.

The Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals who have given their time to further the goals of their institutions, and have demonstrated leadership and organizational skills to inspire and encourage others to further the success of their alma mater’s agriculture and alumni programs.

For nearly 50 years, Fisher has served Ohio State in almost every manner possible. Fisher has dedicated his time, energy and talents to advocate for Ohio State students and programs.… Continue reading

Axis Ohio is representing Axis Seed as an Independent Regional Company for all counties in Ohio. According to owner Nathan Louiso, his company will sell corn and soybeans with the most advanced and selected genetics available. This will be the first crop year for Louiso in selling Axis Seed. He is the 19th seed company to become affiliated with Axis.

Louiso has worked with the seed industry for 16 years and brings that experience to help farmers make the right decisions for their growing conditions and geography.

“I understand the unique and challenging environment that Ohio presents. Every farm is different. What works well in Iowa or Illinois might not be best for my customers. What works in Hancock County won’t necessarily grow well in Highland County,” Louiso said.

As an independent regional company for Axis Seed, Axis Ohio has access to all current trait and technologies. Complete information about the varieties that Axis Ohio carries is available on its web site at www.axisohio.com… Continue reading

Three farmers have been elected to serve on the board of directors for one of northern Ohio’s largest lenders to farmers, agribusiness and rural home owners.

Dusty Sonnenberg of Hamler, Jerry Layman from Kenton and Deborah Johlin-Bach who resides near Elmore, have been elected to serve three-year terms on AgCredit’s board of directors.

Sonnenberg will be serving his first term on the board, representing members of the co-op in Region 2 which consists of Henry, Wood and western Lucas counties. He replaces former board chair Charles Bostdorff, from Wood County, whose tenure on the board expired after serving five consecutive three-year terms.

Layman and Ms. Johlin-Bach were each re-elected to serve an additional three-year term. Jerry was originally elected to serve on the board in 2004 and will continue to represent members in Region 3 (Hancock and Hardin counties). Deborah will continue to serve members who live in Region 4 (eastern Lucas, Ottawa and Sandusky counties).… Continue reading

 Kelli Milligan Stammen of Grove City has been named director of publications for Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. She will write and coordinate content for the organization’s two publications, Our Ohio and Buckeye Farm News, as well as Buckeye Farm e-newsletter and the ofbf.org website.

Previously Milligan Stammen worked for Ohio Farm Bureau as a freelance contributing editor. She has worked as a journalist with The Community Press in Cincinnati, This Week Newspapers in Columbus and contributed freelance writing to The Associated Press, Columbus CEO and The Columbus Dispatch. She also was development and communications coordinator for South-Western City Schools Educational Foundation. 

Milligan Stammen graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a degree in writing and communications. She is active with the Grove City Rotary and is a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Grove City. She and her husband Ken have two children.… Continue reading

The National Auctioneers Association (NAA) has recognized Plain City-based The Wendt Group’s marketing work by naming the company winner of two national awards in its 2016 National Auctioneers Association Marketing Competition.

According to the NAA, the 2016 contest included 880 entries from across the country. The Wendt Group’s awards were both in the Public Relations & Marketing category. Winners will be recognized in July at the competition reception in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

“To be recognized by your peers on a national level is the ultimate honor an auction company can receive,” said Kevin Wendt, The Wendt Group president. “We’ve also been blessed to be affiliated with Wes Sigler and Blue River Digital to bring award-winning and unique marketing design options to our sellers.”

The Wendt Group consists of full-service real estate professionals serving Ohio, Indiana, and the Midwest, offering both auction and traditional brokerage services. They specialize in farmland, recreational land, and farm equipment and are currently booking auctions for the fall.… Continue reading