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Ohio Farm Bureau recently recognized two members with the inaugural Advocacy in Action Award. This accolade is given to those who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to agricultural advocacy. Recipients, nominated by their peers, embody the spirit of leadership, initiative and commitment to advancing agriculture in Ohio.

The winners of the 2024 Ohio Farm Bureau Advocacy in Action Award are Roger Baker of Wayne County and Neall Weber (posthumously) of Franklin County.

“Ohio Farm Bureau’s bread and butter is advocacy on behalf of members,” said Bill Patterson, president of Ohio Farm Bureau. “Through signature events like Ag Day at the Capital and our leadership trips to Washington, D.C., plus grassroots meetings with legislators, making contact with their offices, and hosting farm tours, our success in the policy arena would not happen without our members.”

Baker is described by his colleagues as having a very ‘arms wide open’ approach to getting people in the room to talk about issues and advocate for a cause. He is diligent about including stakeholders at the table when advocacy is being discussed. He has hosted a Supreme Court candidate reception at his farm, hosted the Ag Advisory Council on his farm and is a relentless advocate in his local community.

Weber was a heartfelt advocate for the farm community, was stalwart in upholding the rights of farmers and excelled at sharing the story of agriculture with those in his metropolitan county.  

He gave generously of his time speaking to Rotary clubs and other professional associations, hosting Girl Scout troops and 4-H clubs for tours of his farm, and welcoming members of the media to visit his operation.

The Advocacy in Action Awards were presented at the 106th Ohio Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in December.

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

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

Editors: Photos of Mr. Baker and the Mr. Weber’s family and friends are available for download.

Mr. Baker is pictured with Ohio Farm Bureau Executive Vice President Adam Sharp.

Weber family and friends are pictured with Ohio Farm Bureau President Bill Patterson and Mr. Sharp. From left: Katherine Harrison, Jane Weber and Tina Williams