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Representatives from Knox County Farm Bureau recently traveled to Atlanta for the American Farm Bureau Annual Convention. Knox County earned a County Activities of Excellence award for its event, Date Night at Glen Hill Orchard. The award celebrates unique, local, volunteer-driven programs that serve as models of innovation for local program development. AFBF received 77 entries from across the country. Although all applications showed quality and innovative thinking, only 18 activities were named winners.

Attending to represent Knox County were Sam Fawcett, Knox County Farm Bureau president; Vicki Vance, Knox County Farm Bureau vice president and Kayla Jones, organization director.

Date Night at the Orchard served as a way to get the local community on a farm and show them local agriculture while also having a fun night out. The event also raised funds to support the county Farm Bureau scholarship fund. The event took place within Glen Hill Orchard; the attendees were able to sit at tables scattered throughout the rows of apple trees within the orchard to enjoy their evening. Their ticket gave them a choice of two local food trucks, plus entertainment by a local favorite musician and a s’mores bar. We exceeded our attendance goal of 100, with 146 participants. More than $1,500 was raised for the scholarship fund.

While in attendance at the AFBF Convention, representatives were able to meet AFBF President Zippy Duvall and receive a certificate of achievement. Farm Bureau members from across the country were able to visit the booth in the trade show and learn more about Date Night and gather ideas about hosting events in their local area.

Save the Date: Date Night at Glen Hill Orchard will be held Sept 17, 2022.

Pictured are: Sam Fawcett, Vicki Vance, AFBF President Zippy Duvall and Kayla Jones. Photo courtesy of American Farm Bureau.