I’m a firm believer in the good our organization does for this state and our agriculture industry every day of the year. I say it because I believe in it, I have lived it, and I see the fruits of our labor from the front porches of our farmhouses to the Capitol steps in Washington, D.C.

I was reminded of this as I looked out over the crowd during our recent KFB Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction, seeing so many familiar faces: people I’ve known for years, people I’ve been proud to work and serve with, people who make up the heart of our organization, KFB leaders and county members.

It was an honor to mention them first during my breakfast remarks. They truly are the foundation of this organization. Never doubt it.

In continuing my remarks, I also realized what a tradition we carry on with this event, and so many others that are a part of our heritage. We’ve lasted nearly 106 years and throughout we have forged a path that has led us to being a strong and true voice of agriculture.

And of course, there’s the ham. Who knew 61 years ago, a champion country ham would serve as the vehicle to drive us to such heights in helping people throughout Kentucky. We are truly blessed to have so many businesses and entrepreneurs who show up every year to keep this tradition alive and well. 

I say all that to say this: it is often good to reflect on positive events and successful outcomes to issues, but we also have to continue our advocacy efforts to ensure we move forward on those issues that present challenges on the farm and in our rural communities. 

As we get closer to our Resolutions Committee meeting and the next annual meeting coming later in the year, our local and state leaders will be doing just that…looking at ways to make our industry and rural communities better.

This process of moving suggestions from the local level up, is a part of the heritage that began more than a century ago and keeps our organization relevant and successful. Make no mistake about it, KFB has a seat at the table when it comes to discussions that affect our farm families.

This is a busy time of year, on and off the farm, but one we embrace as farmers, as community leaders, and as Farm Bureau members. We welcome the harvest, as well as the upcoming advocacy opportunities that are as much of a tradition as that champion country ham.

Eddie Melton, President
Kentucky Farm Bureau