The small West Kentucky county of Crittenden is typical of rural areas in the state or across the country. Agriculture is the top economic driver; the area is home to many small-town family businesses; and with a population of just over 9,000, knowing your neighbors is a common occurrence.

But within a 200-mile radius of the county seat, Marion, there are well over two million people in some of the largest cities in the country.

KFB Candid Conversation presents a discussion about the topical issues facing the agricultural industry and rural communities in a question and answer format. In this column, State 4-H President Landry Woodrum discusses the benefits of being involved in the organization and what he has experienced being a state officer during a pandemic.

"In the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us through the struggles of former years."

KFB 1st Vice President Eddie Melton says the 2020 harvest is going well.

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KY FFA President Mallory White says vocational agriculture is still growing young leaders.

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CBOT futures closed mostly higher (and at/near the day’s highs), led by Chicago and KC wheat. Cattle futures closed mostly lower as beef demand becomes less certain. Lean hog futures closed mixed with nearby December LH up 1.45 but April 2021 and beyond posting losses. 

KY FCCLA President Alyssa Cracraft says strong families are key to strong communities.

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CBOT futures were mostly higher with one percent gains or less.  Cattle futures closed slightly higher after a significant morning sell off into negative territory. Lean hog futures closed with minimal losses, having climbed back from sharp losses early in the session.