By Matt Hartong
As summer begins to unfold across Northeast Ohio, I want to extend my sincere thanks to each of you who continues to support and strengthen agriculture in our community. Farming is more than a profession—it’s a way of life rooted in resilience, stewardship, and service. And as your local Farm Bureau, we’re proud to support the families, traditions, and hard work that define our region.
This spring, we were proud to host our annual Farmer’s Share Breakfast, and we were thrilled to welcome over 600 guests from the community. This event isn’t just about pancakes—it’s about perspective. The breakfast is designed to show just how little the farmer earns from the food we all enjoy. For just a dollar, attendees received a full meal, illustrating the small fraction of the cost that actually makes its way back to the farmer. It’s a powerful reminder of the value farmers bring to the table and the economic realities they face every day. We’re grateful to everyone who came out to support the event and help start meaningful conversations about the role of agriculture in our daily lives. And of course, a special thank-you to the volunteers who made it all possible.
We were also honored to award the Robert Eckart Memorial Scholarship to Nolan Luther. This scholarship is more than just financial support—it’s an investment in the future of Ohio agriculture. Nolan exemplifies the leadership, character, and commitment we hope to see in the next generation. We are proud of his achievements and excited to follow his journey in the agricultural field.
Of course, while we celebrate accomplishments, we also must acknowledge the significant challenges facing our farming community this spring. Persistent and above- average rainfall has made it extremely difficult for many farmers in Summit County and across Northeast Ohio to get crops in the ground. Some areas in the region have experienced upwards of 6 to 8 inches of rain over the past month alone, well above typical averages. Fields remain saturated, and the limited windows for planting have made it a stressful season. These conditions are a stark reminder of how much our livelihoods depend on factors outside of our control—and of the strength and adaptability of our farming families. If you see a farmer this summer, offer a word of encouragement. It goes a long way.
As we look ahead, we’re excited for one of the biggest events of the year: the Summit County Fair. This event showcases the best of local agriculture, youth involvement, and community spirit. I encourage everyone to attend and to take time to visit the Summit County Farm Bureau Antiques Museum while you’re there. It’s a great opportunity to explore the legacy of agriculture in our county—from the tools of the past to the stories of those who came before us. Preserving our agricultural heritage helps us understand where we’ve been and where we’re headed.
On a state level, there is good news to share. The Ohio Farm Bureau has been working tirelessly to advocate for policies that benefit our members. One notable development is the recent passage of the Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan through the Ohio House of Representatives. This is a significant step forward in providing affordable and flexible health care options for agricultural families and small business owners across the state. We are optimistic about what this could mean for many of our members and encourage you to watch for more updates as the legislation progresses.
I’d also like to take a moment to emphasize how critical Farm Bureau membership is to the continued success of agriculture in our region. Membership gives us a united voice at the local, state, and national levels. It allows us to provide scholarships, host events, advocate for sound policies, and support the next generation of agricultural leaders. Whether you’re a farmer, a business owner, or simply someone who values the importance of agriculture in your daily life—your membership matters.
As we head into the busy summer and fall seasons, I encourage everyone to stay safe, stay connected, and take pride in the important role you play in supporting local agriculture. It takes all of us—farmers, families, consumers, and advocates—to keep agriculture strong in Summit County and across Ohio.
Wishing you a safe, productive, and meaningful season,
Matt Hartong
President, Summit County Farm Bureau
