Several farmers, citizens, elected officials, and business people converged at Reid’s Orchard on Thursday night for the 102nd Annual Meeting of the Daviess County Farm Bureau. U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie and other federal, state, and local officials attended to vow their support to the local farming community.
The Daviess County Farm Bureau (DCFB) was formed in 1922 to advocate at the state’s Capitol in Frankfort for electrical and phone services in rural areas. DCFB is part of the American Farm Bureau Federation, which considers itself the country’s largest general farm organization and a leading advocate for farm and ranch families.
Local president Wally Taylor said one of the organization’s current efforts is to expand broadband internet access across the state’s rural areas.
“We do a lot of things,” Taylor said. “People typically recognize us as an insurance company, but that’s just one of the added benefits. We try to do what’s good for the ag community and the community as a whole.”
The organization awarded Mack Estes and Estes Farm the prestigious Legacy Award, recognizing the farm’s long-standing commitment and significant contribution to the local community.
Estes farmed for over six decades before retiring at the age of 78. It didn’t last long, though, as he assisted his son in getting crops in the ground this past spring.
State Rep. Suzanne Miles said she couldn’t think of anyone more worthy of the award.
“At a minimum, this gentleman is an excellent steward of the land, a source of knowledge to elected officials, and always lends a hand to anyone in need. He’s one of the best mentors and friends you could ever ask for, and I know he’s always just a phone call away,” she said.
Federal legislators are currently working on the Farm Bill, a multiyear law regulating mandatory and discretionary spending bills appropriated to provide assistance related to food and farms.
Guthrie expressed his support for the local farming community and listened to insights about some of their needs as he continues his efforts in Washington.
“It’s great to be here and to have an opportunity to talk to people I get the opportunity to represent,” Guthrie said. “It’s nice to hear what’s going on in the agricultural world and to discuss issues like the Farm Bill and what’s important to be in it.”
Guthrie also complimented the event’s attendance and emphasized the community, state, and country’s commitment to the farming community.
“The Farm Bureau here is fantastic, and agriculture is so important to this county and this region,” he said. “Because of the nature of the land, economically, this is one of the best growing areas of my district, and it’s good to know and interact with people here in the farm community.”
