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Today’s 61st Annual Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction at the Kentucky State Fair brought in a combined winning bid of $10 million in support of Kentucky charities, continuing the longstanding tradition of generosity that has made this event one of the commonwealth’s most anticipated gatherings.

During the live auction led by Auctioneer Rylan Shea, dozens of attendees eagerly bid for a chance to take home the prized ham. Eventually, Kelly and Joe Craft and Central Bank combined their bids and will each donate $5 million to causes across Kentucky. This year’s Grand Champion Country Ham, weighing in at 16.5 lbs., was produced by Josh Poling of Broadbent’s Country Hams in Kuttawa, Ky.

This is the second time the Crafts and Central Bank have partnered on the winning bid, with their joint donation of $10 million in 2023 making a difference in the lives of thousands of Kentuckians.

“Each year, this breakfast brings Kentuckians together to celebrate agriculture and to give back in meaningful ways,” said Eddie Melton, KFB President. “I am proud of how this event continues to grow in impact and tradition. Together, we’re showing that when our rural and urban communities unite around Kentucky agriculture, we can make a difference across the Commonwealth.”

The Crafts were out of town but sent their representative, Jennifer Barber of Frost Brown Todd, to bid on their behalf.

“Kelly and Joe Craft would like to thank Kentucky Farm Bureau for hosting this wonderful event again this year,” said Barber. “They hope their charitable contributions will help improve the lives of Kentuckians across the Commonwealth. This year’s $5 million donation will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County Craft Innovation Campus, the Craft Academy at Morehead State University and building houses in Eastern Kentucky through the Federation of Appalachian Housing Enterprises.”

Central Bank’s $5 million bid will be distributed to a variety of Kentucky charities, continuing its legacy of philanthropic giving. Beneficiaries are expected to include:

• University of Kentucky Athletics
• Markey Cancer Center
• Gatton College of Business & Economics
• University of Kentucky Alumni Association
• Transylvania University
• University of Kentucky Med Center
• BMW Academy
• Keeneland
• St. Elizabeth Healthcare
• Northern Kentucky University Athletics
• Horizon Community Funds of Northern Kentucky
• The Brighton Center
• Kentucky Derby Museum
• Louisville City Stadium
• Eastern Kentucky University and EKU Athletics
• Federation of Appalachian Housing Enterprises (FAHE)
• Kit Carson Commons of Richmond
• Georgetown College
• Asbury University
• The Hope Center
• Revolving Affordable Housing Fund
• Child Advocacy Center

“We are honored to once again support the Kentucky Farm Bureau Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction,” said Luther Deaton, Chairman, President & CEO of Central Bank. “This event is about more than a winning bid — it’s about making a lasting impact. Our team is proud to give back to charities that strengthen communities and provide hope for Kentuckians across the state.”

This year’s ham was presented to attendees by Miss Kentucky 2025, Ariana Rodriguez, with more than 1,600 people filling the South Wing B Conference Center at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Among those addressing the sold-out crowd were Senator Mitch McConnell, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, KFB President Eddie Melton, and other state and community leaders.

Since its inception in 1964, the Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction has raised nearly $54 million for nonprofit organizations and other charities across Kentucky.

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As the agriculture industry continues to introduce significant technological advances that help farmers cover more acreage, produce more crops, and harvest their land quicker than ever, Kentucky’s farmers have enjoyed increased grain yields over the last few decades. Accordingly, these efficiencies have also brought about a rise in the necessity of on-farm grain bins. Having these structures on site is often advantageous in the management of selling harvested crops at the right time, but, as grain bins increase in popularity, so should awareness about safe practices when working in and around these structures.    

If safety guidelines are not carefully followed, grain storage bin entry can be very dangerous and pose serious suffocation hazards – a leading cause of fatalities in the agriculture industry. Ensuring farm families are properly educated about grain bin entrapments can help decrease the number of accidents on Kentucky farms.

Before entering a grain storage bin, it is important to review, understand, and follow these tips provided by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration:

• Disengage all mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment that presents a danger, particularly grain-moving equipment.
• Prohibit “walking down grain” and similar practices where a person may walk on top of the grain to make it flow within or out of the storage structure.
• Do not allow entry into bins or silos underneath a bridging condition (i.e., when a build-up of grain products on the silo or bin sides could fall and bury an individual.)
• Always wear a body harness with a lifeline or a boatswain’s chair and ensure that it is secured prior to entering the bin.
• Outfit the grain bin with rescue equipment and/or fall protection systems such as a winch system or a rescue tube, often referred to as a “turtle tube” among farmers.  
• Station an observer outside of the bin or silo. This observer should communicate with the person inside of the bin and be equipped and ready to aid and perform rescue operations should an emergency arise.   
• Implement a preventative maintenance program with regularly scheduled inspections for all existing mechanical and safety control equipment.
• When it comes to grain bin safety, it is imperative to think quickly! Seconds matter. Grain acts like quicksand and can trap a person in four to five seconds and completely bury them in just 22 seconds.

Anyone working in or around grain bins should follow and share these tips to encourage safe behaviors and prevent unnecessary injuries or deaths from occurring. Please join us in promoting safety tips like these to our farm families and communities!

>> We want you to be safe out there on the road… but accidents still happen.
At Kentucky Farm Bureau, we’ve got agents in all 120 counties. Click to find one near you.

For many homeowners, there is no greater satisfaction than the sight of a freshly manicured property. No matter what type of lawn you prefer—a perfectly striped, vibrant green plot or one bursting with trees, shrubs, and flowers—doing a little clean-up here and there is bound to leave you with some yard waste on your hands. 

It’s important to know how to properly dispose of those lawn clippings, leaf piles, and stacks of sticks, as tossing these biodegradable materials in your garbage bin unnecessarily takes up precious landfill space. Disposal costs for state-of-the-art landfills range from $30 to $60 per ton, and landscape refuse accounts for up to 20 percent of the wastes being placed in landfills, according to the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. When yard waste decomposes in landfills, it generates methane and acidic leachate, both harmful to humans and the environment. Because of this, municipalities that offer yard waste pick-up often have rules banning the mix of organic waste with your everyday garbage. In some areas, improper disposal of yard waste items may leave homeowners subject to a fine.

However, if disposed of properly, your yard waste can be composted into beneficial mulch, soil, or compost. Follow these tips to ensure your yard’s leftovers land in the right place.  

• Know what is and is not considered yard waste.
  The general rule of thumb is that organic materials generated from regular yard and garden maintenance pass the yard waste test. Specific guidelines vary by area, but the following items are widely accepted as yard waste: grass clippings, leaves, tree trimmings or fallen branches/twigs, weeds, pine needles, and garden remnants. Things that generally do NOT count as yard waste include dirt, rocks, fencing, flower pots, plant tags, empty mulch/soil bags, and pet waste.
   
• Place trimmings and clippings in the proper container.
  If you have curbside yard waste pick up, make sure you are using a pre-approved container. In the long run, re-using a durable, plastic bin with sturdy handles for pick-up crews may be your best bet. (Pro-tip: Be sure to clearly mark the container with “yard waste.”) Another great option is a pack of paper yard waste bags. These large, reinforced bags can be composted and are conveniently available at most hardware or home improvement stores. Stray from the use of plastic bags, which interfere with the composting process and must be manually separated at the facility, a costly and tedious task.
   
• Put nature to work.
  • Fertilize: Are you a chronic bagger? It’s a common misconception that leaving grass clippings in the yard will reduce the health of your lawn. Clippings will not damage your grass. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Grass clippings will quickly decompose and release valuable nutrients back into the soil, reducing the need for supplemental nitrogen fertilization by 25 to 50 percent, according to the EPA.
  • Reallocate: If you’re thinking about raking your leaves into discard piles, why not mulch them with your mower instead? With just a few passes, the leaves will be barely visible, but they’ll work to stabilize soil temperature, prevent weeds, and feed the soil for healthier growth. In addition, a dose of mulched leaves reduces the need for watering your lawn and prevents leaves from clogging up stormwater drains and causing flooding.     
  • Enhance: For those who garden, grass clippings also make a great addition to vegetable plots or flower beds! Sprinkle dried remnants on the surface to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients for your plants, weeds, and feed the soil for healthier plants and grass that require less fertilizer and watering.
  • Repurpose: Composting is a great backyard science experiment that will leave you with a valuable nutrient-rich garden additive. Among gardeners, compost is known as “black gold” because of its many benefits as a soil amendment, including improvement of soil structure, aiding microbial activity, moderating soil temperatures and moisture levels, and providing slow-release, organic nutrients. Any organic material can be composted. However, some items are more desirable and easier to work with than others. Yard waste such as leaves, grass clippings, straw, and nonwoody plant clippings produce high-quality compost with relative ease. You can also throw in kitchen waste (such as coffee grounds, egg shells, and vegetable scraps), sawdust, and wood ash. Stray from adding pet feces (which can transmit diseases), meat, bones, whole eggs, or dairy products, which may attract rodents.

Want to learn more? This document from the UK Cooperative Extension Service is full of information for composting beginners.

>> At Kentucky Farm Bureau, we’re just as invested in your home as you are. We help protect what’s important to you – from farms and fishing boats to minivans and mobile homes. To see a full list of products we insure, click here.

Do you have a life insurance policy provided by your employer? Millions of working Americans receive group term life insurance as a workplace benefit. If you're covered by a group policy at your job, it's important to understand how it works and whether or not the provided coverage is enough.

Although employer-sponsored life insurance policies can be a convenient and affordable (or free) job perk, here are some reasons why you may want to purchase an additional individual policy on your own to help protect your loved ones:

• Your workplace policy may not provide enough coverage for your family’s needs.
  Some employer-provided life insurance policies offer benefits that are one to three times your current salary. For someone who is debt-free, single, and without dependents, that might be enough. However, some families need more than one, two, or three times their annual salary to secure their dependents' financial future.
  
  Imagine you make $60,000 a year, and you secure somewhere between $60,000 to $180,000 in employer-sponsored life insurance for your family. While this may sound like a lot of coverage, you may find that it doesn't fully cover end-of-life bills, debts, and your family's daily living expenses.
  
  Southern Farm Bureau^® Life Insurance Company has an online tool that can help you calculate the right amount of life insurance for you and your family. Click here to determine your family’s needs now.¹
   
• It may not be guaranteed.
  With group-term life insurance, your coverage can be linked to your employment. You could possibly lose this coverage if you leave the company, at which point you will be left to seek out an individual life insurance policy. In addition, your employer might be able to drop this benefit at any time.
   
• Buying an individual policy may become more difficult as time passes.
  Generally, the earlier in life you purchase a life insurance policy, the lower the premium rates will be. Rates typically go up with age, so that means if you’re 40, you’re likely going to pay more than someone who is 30 and in similar health. Many life insurance policies also require a health examination, so purchasing a policy after you develop a health condition may prove to be difficult or expensive.
  
  There are two major types of life insurance sold to individuals—term and whole life (sometimes referred to as “permanent”). Term pays if death occurs during the term of the policy, which is usually from 1 to 30 years, and whole life pays a death benefit whenever you die – even if you live to 100, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Click here to explore the life insurance products offered by KFB Insurance through Southern Farm Bureau^® Life Insurance Company.

So, is employer-provided life insurance enough? No two families are alike. It is important to take the time to weigh your needs against the coverages provided. At KFB Insurance, we want to make choosing the right life insurance policy for your family’s needs as stress-free as possible by giving you the information you need to make educated decisions. We’re proud to offer life insurance coverage through Southern Farm Bureau^® Life Insurance Company. Click here to get in touch with a local agent who can help you pick a plan.

_{¹The amount of life insurance coverage that you may qualify or apply for is subject to medical and financial underwriting by Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company in Jackson, MS.}

Did you know that nearly half of Kentucky is farmland?

That means Kentucky drivers are pretty likely to encounter slow-moving farm equipment on the roadways, especially during planting and harvest seasons. During these times, farmers often need to move equipment from one field to another, but sometimes those transitions require their machinery to travel down or across public roads.

According to Kentucky State Police statistics, there were 228 collisions involving tractors and other farm equipment on Kentucky roadways in 2023, the latest report available. 83 of those accidents were labeled by Kentucky State Police as the result of "inattention"—further proof that increased caution during harvest and planting season is needed to prevent tragedy. Other prevalent causes for collisions included misjudgment of clearance, failing to keep in the proper lane, and improper passing.   

Check out the following tips on how to be a polite motorist in the presence of farm equipment:

• Watch for road signs. Many roads next to farms will have a yellow sign with the silhouette of a farmer on a tractor posted to warn drivers that they are entering an area where slow-moving vehicles are likely to be on the road.
• Don't assume the farmer knows you are there. While most farmers check frequently for vehicles approaching from behind them, their focus must remain on the road ahead. Also remember that farm machinery is very loud and may prevent the operator from hearing your vehicle's approach.
• Keep your distance to ensure farmers can see your vehicle in their mirrors.      
• Stay back and don't tailgate. The triangular slow-moving vehicle emblem displayed on the back of farm equipment signifies that the machinery will not be traveling at high speeds and maneuverability is limited. Additionally, if the farm equipment you are following pulls to the right side of the road, it does not necessarily mean it is making room for you to pass. It is quite possible that the farmer is slowing down and drifting right to gain extra room for a wide left turn.      
• Use extreme caution when passing. If you cannot clearly see what lies ahead of both your vehicle and the equipment you intend to get ahead of, do not pass. Never pass farm equipment when approaching a hill or curve, and do not attempt to pass when you are within 100 yards of an intersection, bridge, railroad crossing or tunnel.  Additionally, turbulence created by speeding past machinery may cause it to sway and become unstable.   
• Exhibit patience and slow down as soon as you spot a piece of farm equipment. Those tractors don’t want to be on the road any more than you want them to be. You are not the only one eager to get the farm equipment off the road and out of the way. Farmers must move their machinery carefully along roadways and have lower maximum speeds by which they can travel. When traveling behind these slow-moving vehicles, patiently wait for the operator to find an appropriate time to let you pass. Don't assume this can be done at any time. The farmer must survey the shoulder of the road for an area that is not soft, wet or steep and can support the weight of the equipment without causing it to tip.

Farmers are part of what makes Kentucky the great state it is—keep them in mind when traveling our state’s beautiful roads. 

>> In Kentucky, there’s so much to live for. Join us in driving distraction-free. To learn more about distracted driving’s prevalence in the Bluegrass State, click here.

Recycling is a great habit, but it’s important to know that those curbside bins aren’t a catch-all. The key to being a responsible and effective recycler is educating yourself on what should and should not go into your recycling bin. That’s right—just because something says “recyclable” does not necessarily mean it is accepted via curbside recycling, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some items need to be taken to a special facility.

Why is it so important to learn what can and cannot go into your curbside bin? When unrecyclable items arrive at recycling centers, they can clog up the equipment and cause costly damage. Also, those non-recyclables must be tediously sorted out and sent to landfills, which is time consuming and costly for the facility, according to the EPA. A few misplaced items can cause entire loads of recycling to be rejected!

A local example of this was a plea from the city of London, Ky., in 2019, urging residents to “recycle smarter.” At the time, London’s Public Works Director Steve Edge said, “We are losing all the way around. Misuse is the biggest thing. The more garbage they put in, the more we have to pay to sort it. We’re losing a lot of recycled garbage because of contamination.” As of 2025, London's curbside recycling program was still suspended, but the city was offering recycling through a drop-off center.

A little research can get you on the right path to becoming a more conscientious recycler. Remember, it’s important to check with your local recycling provider to ensure that they will accept certain items before placing them into a bin.

Here are a few ground rules that apply to most single-stream curbside recycling in communities across Kentucky:

• Do not place plastic bags in curbside recycling.
  Very few communities in the U.S. accept plastic bags, wraps, and films in curbside recycling. These bags, wraps, and films get tangled up in the equipment, and once they’re cut free, they’re sent straight to the landfill, according to How2Recycle. Not exactly the outcome you desired, huh? This includes plastic shrink wrap (like on a 24-pack of bottled water) and the bubble wrap pouches your online orders are shipped in. The good news is that you can easily take these to a store drop-off location for recycling. On your next run to the grocery store or major retailer, gather up all your plastic bags and drop them at the bins typically located just inside the store’s doors. 
   
• Do not bag your recyclables.
  Plastic bags are curbside kryptonite. You may think you’re helping the recycling workers out, but do not bag your recycling! Typically, this results in the entire bag going straight to the landfill. Instead, How2Recycle suggests freely placing items into the bin or stick them into an open-top paper bag. Recyclables will likely tumble out of the bag by the time they get to the recycling center, and in most cases, the paper bag will also get recycled, according to the nonprofit How2Recycle.
   
• Crinkly, flexible packaging belongs in the trash.
  The vast majority of pouches, crinkly bags, and other flexible packaging, like candy or granola bar wrappers, should go into the trash because they are made of many layers of different materials, according to How2Recycle. Examples of “pouches” include the little zipper baggies that contain gummy bear candy, dog treats, detergent pods, and dried fruits. This category of non-recyclables also includes chip bags, and any squeezable yogurts, baby food, or gel snack packaging.
   
• When in doubt, throw those foam containers out.
  Next time you are about to throw a Styrofoam cup, take-out container, egg carton, or box of packing peanuts in the curbside bin, think again! Most communities do not accept Styrofoam containers via curbside recycling, according to the Recycling Partnership. We know that’s confusing, as most takeout containers have the “recycle” symbol stamped right on the bottom of them. It’s true that those polystyrene containers are recyclable, but only when taken to the proper facility. Some local governments and recycling companies have drop-off locations specifically for foam packaging. A quick internet search can tell you if there are any locations near you.
   
• Rinse off any food particles or residue.
  Do your recyclables need to be spotless? Nope! But anything with food particles or residue should be rinsed. According to Waste Management, the goal is simply to make them clean enough to avoid contaminating other materials, like paper and cardboard. Speaking of cardboard, cardboard pizza delivery boxes without leftovers or liners are recyclable…but garlic butter containers, pizza crusts, and leftover slices are not.
   
• Steer clear of tanglers!
  Tanglers are items that get jammed up in the recycling discs, forcing workers to shut down the equipment and unravel the convoluted mess – a dangerous, tedious, and probably very frustrating task. So, what is a tangler? How2Recycle puts it pretty succinctly: “If it’s durable and stringy and you can get it in a knot, then don’t recycle it.” How can you help out those workers at your local facility? The Recycling Partnership recommends that you steer clear of placing the following items in your curbside bin: Hoses, cords, clothes, wires, metal hangers, Christmas lights, headphones, and other electrical cords. Small items can also cause issues during the sorting process. The Recycling Partnership also recommends keeping objects smaller than an index card out of your curbside recycling bin. They’re better off in the trash, and your local facility will thank you!

So, after that long list of no-nos, what CAN you recycle? Plastic bottles, cans, paper, and cardboard are always a safe place to start. As contrary to popular belief as this may seem: When in doubt, throw it out! It’s better to be 100% sure than to wishfully throw an unaccepted item in the bin and risk jeopardizing the entire batch!

Check out the video below and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more Tools and Resources.

Only one percent of earth’s water is available for us to use—the rest is either frozen or salt water. As the planet’s population continues to grow, our most precious resource grows scarcer. According to the Environmental Protection Association (EPA), the average American family uses more than 300 gallons per day at home—and 70 percent of that is water used indoors.

Fortunately, there are many things we can do to save water in our homes. Read on for some ways to reduce your water consumption: 

1. Shower instead of bathe
   Every now and then, a bath is a great way to wind down, but taking a shower is a much more environmentally-friendly way to scrub-a-dub-dub. According to the EPA, filling a bath tub can use up to 70 gallons of water, while a shower only takes 10 to 25 gallons.
    
2. Turn off the tap
   Simply turning off the tap while you brush your teeth in the morning and at night can save a whopping eight gallons of water per day.
    
3. Test for and fix leaks
   Did you know that a simple toilet leak can waste as much as 200 gallons of water per day? That’s equivalent to flushing your toilet 50 times! Testing for a leak is simple. Place a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. Wait 30 minutes. If the color shows up in the bowl without flushing, then you have a leak!
    
4. Wash wisely
   Ah, the age-old dish debate: hand-washing vs. using a dishwasher. Studies show that today’s dishwashers have grown so energy- and water-efficient that they’ve taken the lead. According to the EPA’s Energy Star Program, a new certified dishwasher uses less than half as much energy as washing dishes by hand AND saves nearly 5,000 gallons of water a year. Another tip: Don’t run half-loads. Doing so can quickly add up to dozens of gallons of wasted water.
    
5. Insulate water pipes     
   Have you ever let the taps run full blast while waiting for warm water to flow? We’ve all been there. Insulating your pipes will allow you to get hot water faster so you can avoid wasting water while it heats up.
    
6. Defrost efficiently
   Try to avoid running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Plan ahead to defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Taking steps to conserve water at home is one of the simplest ways to preserve our planet for years to come.

>> KFB lives and works in the Bluegrass State. To see some of the ways we’re invested in helping Kentucky flourish, click here.

Check out the video below and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more Tools and Resources.

Life insurance: One of those things many people don’t think about… until it’s too late.

We understand – no one wants to think about dying. But do you ever wonder how your loved ones would fare should something ever happen to you? If someone depends on you financially, life insurance is a topic you shouldn’t avoid.   

There are many different types of life insurance, but in every plan, the goal is the same: to provide money from your active policy to your beneficiaries after you die. These proceeds can be used to manage financial obligations in the absence of your income. In more direct terms, life insurance can help keep your family from having to make drastic changes to future plans following your death.        

Life insurance payments can be used to cover a variety of things like:

• End-of-life expenses, such as uncovered medical bills and the cost of your funeral and burial. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the median cost of an adult funeral with viewing and burial, according to a recent study, was $8,300.   
• Unpaid debts, like a home mortgage or car loan, credit card debt, taxes, and estate settlement costs. When someone dies owing a debt, the debt usually does not go away. Generally, the deceased person’s estate is responsible for paying any unpaid debts, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
• Day-to-day expenses, like groceries, housing, utilities, transportation, and clothing. Would your family take a financial hit if you weren’t bringing home a regular paycheck? Life insurance can help cover ongoing expenses for your family.
• Future needs, like a spouse’s retirement or a child’s education. According to the most recent report released by the United States Department of Agriculture, the average cost to raise a child in the United State was $233,610. The study has not been updated since 2015, but when adjusted for inflation, the number jumps to $322,427 in 2024 dollars, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Do you want your spouse to have to pay for that alone?       

Yes, we understand that delving into the world of life insurance for the first time can be an overwhelming task. At KFB Insurance, we want to make choosing life insurance for your family's needs as stress-free as possible by giving you the information you need to make educated decisions. KFB Insurance is proud to offer life insurance coverage through Southern Farm Bureau^® Life Insurance Company. Click here to get in touch with a local agent who can help you pick a plan.   
 

Boone County sits at the northernmost tip of Kentucky, hugged to the north and west by the Ohio River. This county, joined by Campbell and Kenton counties, makes up part of the official Northern Kentucky region (NKY), an urban area to the south of Cincinnati, Ohio.

The city of Florence is a bustling metropolitan area with much to see and do. You’ll know you’re there when you see the “Florence Y’all” water tower (continue reading for more on that one). Catch the Florence Y’alls in action at Thomas More Stadium, home to NKY’s minor league baseball team, or experience the adrenaline of cheering your favorite horse over the finish line at Turfway Park Racing & Gaming. If you’d rather be the one racing, swing by Full Throttle Adrenaline Park and hit speeds of up to 40mph in one of their state-of-the-art pro karts.

So, back to that water tower. This iconic local landmark has long been the subject of lore. When the tower was erected in the 1970s, it was originally emblazoned with the words “Florence Mall” and was intended to be an advertisement for the forthcoming and much anticipated modern shopping mall. But advertising a non-existent entity was found to be in defiance of the National Highway Beautification Act, and thus, the city had an M-shaped problem on their hands. A new paint job would be costly, so then-Mayor Hop Ewing proposed an economical solution: Simply add an apostrophe and paint over the legs of the M to morph “mall” into “y’all.” The fix was meant to be temporary, but the phrase found a permanent spot in the hearts of residents (hence the affectionately named baseball team).

Boone County’s metropolitan areas quickly give way to rural, rolling hills. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, coined the birthplace of American vertebrate paleontology, is a great place to learn about the giants that once roamed this idyllic landscape. The park is recognized as a key to understanding Ice Age life on the North American continent, according to the National Park Service. The bones of many prehistoric mammals, including mammoths, mastodons, ground sloths, stag-moose, and more have been found at Big Bone Lick. Today, visitors can catch a glimpse at the park’s bison herd or try their hand at orienteering, a woods navigation sport using a map and compass or GPS, via two permanent woodland orienteering courses.

The small Boone County community of Rabbit Hash oozes charm. The anchor of this riverfront locale is the Rabbit Hash General Store, originally constructed in 1831. This nearly 200-year-old landmark still stands today, despite being completely submerged in the Great Flood of 1937 AND suffering a devastating fire in 2016. The store survived the flood thanks to a series of iron rod anchors, but the wooden structure was no match for an inferno, which left no more than the store’s charred skeleton behind. Rabbit Hash enthusiasts rallied around the historic landmark, and, in a little more than a year’s time, the community gathering spot reopened its doors—restored to its former glory with historic quirks intact… right down to the sloped floorboards. Because the store’s original details were so painstakingly preserved, it is proudly still listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a scenic drive and pay a visit to yesteryear at this beloved spot, open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. While you’re there, pop into Folksiders to shop for handmade and vintage items, sip on a glass of wine at Gunpowder Creek Vineyard’s Wine Tasting Room, or grab a bite and enjoy the view from the deck at Chef Hip E’s Cocina Loca.

Another quirk of this unincorporated community is that it’s governed by a “pawlitician.” Since 1998, folks have exercised their democratic right to elect the top dog. With votes costing $1 apiece, this election serves as a fundraiser for the Rabbit Hash Historical Society, which owns and maintains the quaint riverside hamlet. The current mayor, Boone the Bluetick Coonhound, was elected in 2024. His campaign raised more than $14,000 toward the town’s preservation.

Continue the scenic drive along the Ohio River from Rabbit Hash to Petersburg, where the Creation Museum is located. This 75,000-square foot facility allows families to experience biblical history. The museum is full of excitement for kids, from a special effects theater and planetarium to a zoo and ziplines.

While you are in the area, be sure to visit one of the Kentucky Farm Bureau Certified Farm Markets in Boone County: Eagle Bend Alpacas/Eagle Bend’s Yarn & Fiber (note that tours are by appointment only), Kinman Farm Market, and McGlasson Farms. 

Hometown agents. Because personal service still matters.

For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has multiple offices located in Boone County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well. 

Emergency kits are crucial to have in times of unprecedented weather and crisis. Both the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Red Cross recommend that all families maintain an emergency supply kit that is easily accessible and stocked for use anytime. Emergency kits should include household necessities and address any unique needs that may not be readily available at a disaster relief center. No matter where you may find yourself, it’s important to have a kit on-hand. The CDC urges that families have separate emergency kits for the home, car, and workplace to be prepared for any situation.  

Before assembling your kit, it’s important to take stock of your family’s individual requisites, such as baby formula, prescription medication, a mobility aid, or any other unique needs. After gathering your family’s specific needs, you should begin with the most critical supplies—food and water. The Red Cross states there should be one gallon of water per person per day in your family’s kit, and to be most prepared you should have at least a two-week supply of water stored in your home, with a three-day supply ready for evacuation. The same recommendation goes for non-perishable food items. 

If little ones are involved, the CDC also suggests making your family emergency kit a scavenger or treasure hunt to involve the kids and make them aware of where supplies are stored. Make it a “treasure hunt” by giving your kids their own list of supplies to search for and add to the kit. To best organize your family’s emergency kit necessities, you can use a large backpack, duffle bag, or storage container to hold all supplies.

Emergency kit essential supplies: 

• Flashlight 
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio 
• Extra batteries 
• First aid kit (the Red Cross recommends always having antiseptic wipes) 
• Medications 
• Personal hygiene items 
• Multi-purpose tool 
• Copies of important personal documents (medical information, proof of address, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc.) 
• Family and emergency contact information 
• Cell phones with chargers
• Extra cash 
• Emergency blanket 
• Maps of your surroundings 
• Dust or N-95 masks 

Additional supplies include: 

• Plastic sheeting, scissors, and duct tape (to shelter in place) 
• Sleeping bags 
• Extra clothes and shoes 
• Manual can food opener 
• Hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes 
• Disposable plates, cutlery, and paper towels 
• Matches 
• Books, games, or other activities for kids 

Once your kit is put together, store it in a cool, dry place, ensure that expired goods are replaced as needed, and be sure to update your kit as your family’s needs grow and change. A good tip is to check your emergency kit every six months to make sure all items are functional and up to date. 

If your family has a pet, click here for information on ensuring their safety in the event of an emergency weather event or evacuation.

At Kentucky Farm Bureau, we’re just as invested in your home as you are. We help protect what’s important to you – from farms and fishing boats to minivans and mobile homes. To see a full list of products we insure, click here.

Young Farmer Leadership Conference

Get ready for two days packed with inspiration, learning, and fun! Our event features dynamic general sessions and hands-on workshops designed to help young farmers like you develop top-notch leadership skills and practical operational knowledge that you can use every day, both on and off the farm.

What to Expect:

• Inspiring Sessions: Kickstart the conference with motivational talks from industry leaders and fellow farmers who will share their success stories and insights.
• Interactive Workshops: Dive into extensive workshops where you'll learn the latest leadership strategies and agricultural knowledge.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, industry leaders, and subject matter experts. Share ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a fun and engaging environment.
• Fun for All: Join the group for our pre-conference event and closing celebration, where the focus is fun. These experiences provide the opportunity for attendees to build relationships and discuss the content of the conference in a fun setting.

Save the Date: The 2026 Young Farmer Leadership Conference will be held January 30-31 in Louisville, KY.

American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Conference

Each March, hundreds of young agricultural leaders gather together from across the country to learn, share, and grow.  

What to Expect:

• Leadership Development: Apply takeaways from sessions on consumer outreach, membership value, advocacy, education, and leadership development.
• Networking: Share experiences and build lasting relationships with YF&R in various states.
• Community Service: Give back to the local community through charitable outreach and acts of kindness.
• Agricultural Tours: Experience agriculture in the host state through agriculture and industry tours.
• Celebration: Engage and celebrate Farm Bureau YF&R members at the Annual YF&R Banquet.

This event is also called the FUSION Conference. On alternating years, the event is held with the American Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership and Promotion & Education groups.

Registration: Registration for this event is completed through the AFBF registration site. Kentucky Farm Bureau does not register or book hotel rooms for members. Registration questions should be directed to AFBF’s events team.

Save the Date: The 2026 Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Conference will be held March 13-16 in Portland, Oregon.
 

Young Farmer Summer Outing

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the KFB Summer Outing! This event is all about connecting and developing young farmers in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Explore diverse agricultural operations throughout the state, and enjoy a mix of learning, competition, and entertainment for the whole family.

What to Expect:

• Agriculture Tours: Embark on exciting tours of various farms and agricultural operations. Discover new techniques, innovative practices, and the beauty of Kentucky's farming landscape.
• Informative Sessions: Dive into interesting and engaging general sessions where you'll learn from industry experts and fellow farmers. Gain valuable insights and knowledge to boost your farming skills.
• Young Farmer Contest: Show off your skills and compete in contests designed for young farmers. It's your chance to win some great prizes!
• Community Service: Make a positive impact by participating in our community service activity. Give back to the community while connecting with fellow farmers.
• Family Fun: Enjoy entertainment and activities designed for all ages. From games to live music, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Regional Young Farmer Outings

These events are all about bringing young farmers together for a fun and easy networking opportunity. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just starting out, these outings are designed to help you connect with others in your region and engage with the KFB Young Farmer Program. These events are hosted across Kentucky, so you can determine which event is closest to your home and best fits your schedule.

What to Expect:

• Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the kids along! Our events are inclusive of children and designed to be enjoyable for the whole family.
• Half-Day Adventures: We know you're busy, so our outings are no more than half a day of programming. Perfect for fitting into your schedule!
• Free Participation: That's right, no cost to join in the fun. Just come ready to have a great time!

Eastern Regional Outing
Sunday, September 14
REGISTER HERE

Central Regional Outing
Coming Soon

Western Regional Outing
Coming Soon
 

Young Farmer Luncheon

Hosted during the Kentucky Farm Bureau Annual Meeting each December, the Young Farmer Luncheon is a celebration of our young farmers' achievements! Enjoy lunch with friends while we honor young farmer contest winners and celebrate county young farmer successes. Join us as we reflect on the year behind us and gear up for an even better year ahead! Register for the luncheon through your county Farm Bureau.

Please use the form below to order your 2025 UK Football posters. 

Each poster is 18” x 24” and will include a KFB ad. Posters cost $2.95 each, and there is a minimum order of 10. 

If you have questions, please contact Johnny Graybeal at Johnny.Graybeal@kyfb.com. Orders will be accepted through August 29.