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By John C. (Jack) Fisher, OFBF executive vice president

Farm Bureau isn't an organization that fixes blame. We fix problems. And over this past year, we have had some huge successes in taking steps to fix challenges to your businesses and quality of life.

Facing a dramatic change in leadership in state government, OFBF educated, informed and motivated our members to take active roles in campaigns and the election. We were instrumental in protecting the rights of property owners by helping lead the efforts to reform and improve Ohio’s eminent domain laws. We created awareness and sought resolution on challenges to farmers and landowners on topics such as wildlife control, line fence law, septic system regulations and the farm bill. We have led the public policy and public relations initiatives to help make farm-based fuels more prominent in Ohio and the nation. We have been a vocal proponent of Ohio's livestock industry, working with lawmakers, regulators and the public to help them understand the industry's positive contributions. And through the Our Ohio brand, with the great support of our partners at Nationwide, we are shaping public views about who you are and what you do – and making farming accessible and understandable to millions of Ohioans. Over this past year, we again have proven that Farm Bureau gets things done.

I sat down to prepare these remarks the day after Ohio State beat Michigan. Despite being 11 and 0 and being ranked the number one team in the nation, the Bucks weren’t satisfied being good. They wanted to be great. And to do so, they were willing to do some things differently than in the past.

There's a lesson from that big win that we in Farm Bureau should take to heart. We are number one. But if we want to stay that way, we need to consider inventive ideas and innovative actions. We need to take the steps that will move us from good to great. We must excel at balancing what we want with what we have to get it.

Part of that work will be done by the special committee appointed by President Peterson. I’m excited about their work and anxious to hear their thoughts and recommendations on how we can maximize all of Farm Bureau’s important resources.

Another step has been taken in response to input from the members. We are increasing the value of an already valuable resource: your county's organization director. You have told us that you want your OD to be available to help counties carry out Farm Bureau priorities, to be face to face with members, figuring out what needs done in the county and then assisting you in those efforts. To get there, we are returning to our previous structure of four regions. By reducing the size of regions and adding a fourth regional supervisor, we will be able to eliminate some of the administrative work that has taken so much of your OD’s time. This will free him or her to concentrate on carrying out the important work of your county Farm Bureau.

Again, I want to thank you for your involvement in Farm Bureau. Your passion for agriculture and this organization is unparalleled. You are the consummate advocates for our members and our industry.

And you will wisely direct our efforts to tighten our focus, anticipate challenges and apply our resources effectively. Remember, Farm Bureau will move only as well and as far as you take it. I encourage you to take ownership and pride in Farm Bureau's evolution from good to great.