Carroll County Farm Bureau honors community leaders at annual meeting

The Carroll County Farm Bureau’s annual meeting, held Sept. 10, was more than just a gathering, it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service and the enduring spirit of agriculture that continues to shape the region.

The evening brimmed with pride and fellowship as members, guests and local leaders came together to reflect on the Farm Bureau’s accomplishments and look ahead to a promising future for Carroll County’s farming families.

The organization joyfully welcomed Kayla Scott as its new organization director, whose enthusiasm and fresh perspective promise to carry the bureau’s mission forward with renewed energy and purpose. Farm Bureau leaders also recognized the board of trustees and special guests whose steady guidance and commitment continue to nurture the growth of agriculture throughout the county.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of several prestigious awards honoring outstanding dedication and partnership within the community. CYA Livestock Exchange earned the distinction of 2025 Partner of the Year, with Wendy Davis accepting the award on behalf of the organization. 

The Member of Distinction Award was presented to Todd Davis for his decades-long service to the FFA, Farm Bureau and agricultural education. In a touching moment, his daughter, Kady Hartong, accepted the award in his absence.

Another moving highlight came with the induction of Bruce Burgett into the Carroll County Farm Bureau Hall of Fame. His son, Jason Burgett, and family accepted the honor, reflecting on Bruce’s lifelong contributions and unwavering devotion to the agricultural community. 

The Farm Bureau also celebrated its investment in the next generation of agricultural leaders by presenting a $1,000 scholarship to Paul Leslie, whose dedication to his studies and the farming way of life embodies the bureau’s values of hard work and stewardship.

Guests were inspired by remarks from Don Jones, Ohio’s state executive director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency, who shared wisdom drawn from a lifetime of dedication to agriculture. His insights into FSA programs and USDA priorities offered encouragement and a broader vision for the future of rural communities. 

Special gratitude was extended to Brad Luckey and Jim Coy for their diligent efforts in crafting policies that safeguard landowners and strengthen local leadership in negotiations involving oil, gas, natural resource and carbon storage initiatives.

Rounding out the evening was the warm hospitality of the Sandy Valley and Carrollton FFA officers, who helped serve dinner with smiles and professionalism that impressed all in attendance — a shining example of the bright future of agriculture resting in capable young hands.

Gratitude was expressed to Encino Energy for sponsoring the event, Our Lady of Mercy Church for hosting and The Chop House for providing the meal. 

The Carroll County Farm Bureau extends thanks to its members and volunteers for their unwavering support of grassroots agriculture. Together, they continue to advance agriculture and strengthen the community — ensuring the spirit of cooperation and dedication that defines Carroll County’s farming heritage endures for generations to come.