I AM FARM BUREAU...

BEEMAN
Jeff Collins of Olmsted Falls

Jeff Collins of Olmsted Falls, also known as "Beeman", has been instrumental in establishing three beehives at the county fairgrounds.

"This year a new window hive inside the building will give fairgoers a chance to see honeybees at work", Collins said.

"Interest in bees is really growing in Cuyahoga County. Over 100 people interested in bees and beekeeping attended a recent meeting held at the fairgrounds."

I AM FARM BUREAU...

David Peth of North Royalton

David Peth of North Royalton raises a variety of vegetables to market at local farmers markets during the season."I concentrate on potatoes and onions mostly. In the winter months, I do research for the best storing varieties."

A long-time advisor to the 4H animal science program, Dave and his wife Joyce are in charge of the 4H Market Auction held at the County Fair each year. "It is very fulfilling to see the children complete their market project and learn responsibility and dedication to that animal along the way."

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Joseph Porach - Starlite Stables, Berea

Joseph Porach has operated Starlite Stables in Berea for the past 25 years. "I recently completed training offered by O.S.U. Extension to become a R.E.I.N.S. (Regional Equine Information Network System) instructor and hosted our first meeting for local animal control officers in Cuyahoga County." Joe is the chairman of the Farm Bureau Equine Advisory Committee. "I have always had a passion for horses and want to help others learn the proper way to care for horses." Horses are considered livestock whether they are for pleasure riding or work. Horse population in Cuyahoga County is one of the largest in the state. Joe and his wife Georgeann reside in Parma.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Fred Holzman of North Royalton

For the past 48 years, Fred Holzman and wife Gail have resided on 18 acres in North Royalton and own a 166 acre parcel of hardwood forest in Jefferson County. Fred recently purchased a saw mill to help with tree harvesting.

Fred enjoys restoring antique tractors. He is the current president of the Cuyahoga FB Antique Tractor Club (APACC- The Tractor Club) and is a county Farm Bureau board member.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Jim Burnette - Burnette's Farm and Bird Aviary, Olmsted Township

Burnette's Farm and Bird Avairy has been on Columbia Road in Olmsted Township for 37 years. Owner Jim Burnette maintains over 1,500 birds, about 30 different species at the farm along with several other farm animals. "The farm is home to over 20 varieties of chickens and I gather four different colors of eggs daily.

I've written many articles about poultry that have been published in several languages. Over the years I have collected photos, statues, paintings, carvings and many other items to establish a poultry museum, now all I need is a building."

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Gayle Hansen - Hansen's Greenhouse, Olmsted Falls

Hansen's Greenhouse has been a family business in Olmsted Falls for 45 years. "My sister Lois and I co-own and operate a cut flower business along with greenhouse seasonal plants and annuals. Four acres of outdoor cut flowers and vegetables that we sell at a local farmers market keep us busy all summer long."

Gayle Hansen has served in various positions on the County Farm Bureau Board for over 25 years, and prior to that was involved in the Farm Bureau youth and young farmer programs.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Tom Washtock - TJ Stables, Olmsted Township

"I purchased my first horse, Blake, who is now 16 years old, during my years as director for the Cuyahoga Agricultural Society (the fairboard). When I decided to retire and sell my hardware store business, I bought 5.5 acres in Olmsted Township and built TJ Stables, a six stall stable. Recently I added an indoor arena for my granddaughter and my boarders to ride in during inclement weather."

Tom Washtock has been a Farm Bureau board member for four years and has served on various committees.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Tom Kaskey - 74 acre farm in Ashtabula County

Tom Kaskey, a retired school teacher, plants and harvests a variety of vegetables on his 74 acre farm in Ashtabula County and sells his produce at various farmers markets in season.

Tom and his wife Patti live in Olmsted Falls. Tom currently serves as the county Farm Bureau board secretary.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Gerald Wilson - Cuyahoga Farm Bureau Communications Action Leader

For the past several years Farm Bureau board member Gerald Wilson has served as the Cuyahoga Farm Bureau Communications Action Leader. "One of our projects is to introduce agriculture into the classrooms in schools in Cuyahoga County. We provide teachers will all kinds of resources and have developed several lesson plans and educational programs that share the importance of Ohio agriculture. We also participate in several consumer events during the year, including Vintage Ohio and the Fabulous Food Show."

During his retirement, Gerald has worked at various greenhouses and lives in Cleveland with his wife, Sandra.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Deborah Dean-Espie - Dean's Greenhouse

Deborah Dean-Espie continues in the family business, Dean's Greenhouse, established in 1924. Along with blooming seasonal plants, ferns, bedding flats, hardy mums and pansies, the family started a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), a program where consumers buy produce in season directly from the farmer. Her love of growing vegetables and eating locally-grown food grew into an annual event, Tomato Fest, held in August each year.

Deborah and her children also tend to beehives they recently started on the 18 acre farm in Westlake.

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Kim Rassi - Vintage Alpacas, Brooklyn Heights

Kim Rassi raises show quality alpacas on her twelve acre farm, Vintage Alpacas, in Brooklyn Heights.

"I am from a greenhouse backround so, of course, I love farming and being outside in the dirt!

I work full time breeding quality bloodline alpacas for show and other breeders."

I AM FARM BUREAU...

Dennis Eck - President Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association

Dennis Eck is an animal control officer for the City of Middleburg Heights and president of the Greater Cleveland Beekeepers Association.

"I was raised on a farm and was involved in 4H as a youngster. I have always had an interest in animals. Along with beekeeping, I enjoy restoring classic cars and trucks and cooking."

Dennis resides in Strongsville with his wife Valerie.