James W. (Bill) Patterson of Chesterland has been re-elected first vice president of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. He holds the second highest elected office in the state’s largest and most inclusive farm and food organization.

Patterson joined OFBF’s board of trustees in 2011. He will continue as the District 4 Trustee representing Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake and Trumbull counties.

Patterson and his family raise apples, strawberries and peaches. They also have a farm market and a wholesale cider operation. He has two sons.

A 25-year member of the Geauga County Farm Bureau, he served as its president and vice president. He is a member of the Ohio Produce Growers and Marketers Association. Patterson received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from Ohio State University. He also is a graduate of Ohio’s Leadership Education and Development Program – Class VII.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Learn more at ofbf.org.

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ty Higgins, 614-246-8231.

Editors: A high-resolution photo of Mr. Patterson is available to accompany this story.

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The plan we are on is great. It’s comparable to my previous job's plan, and we are a sole proprietor.
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Kevin Holy

Geauga County Farm Bureau

Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan
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To grow a network and gain perspective and knowledge in the industry through personal and professional development has been invaluable. Every day I learn and grow.
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Ryanna Tietje

Henry County Farm Bureau

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The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
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Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

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Bill and Charlotte Wachtman

Henry County

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I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
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Gretchan Francis

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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Because we are younger farmers just starting out, Farm Bureau has a lot of good opportunities and resources to help us grow in the future.
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Hannah Kiser

Sandusky County Farm Bureau

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Chad Ruhl

Farm manager, CSI Insurance

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So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
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Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

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