Alison Smith Retail and Food Service, Kentucky Beef Council
FOOD, FAMILY, AND FAIRS Awww summer! How I love this season! This is the time of year when I can finally say I am comfortable with the weather. Of course, most would say it is just “too stinkin’ hot”! It is also the time of year when folks are enjoying family cookouts, reunions, and vacations. But perhaps the best part about this season are the fairs because it really just brings all the things that I love about the summer together – family time in the barn, long summer days, and good food! I am not just talking about the funnel cakes and lemonade shake-ups, although those are tasty treats. It’s the Cattlemen’s Association’s ribeyes or the smell of the juicy burgers coming from the concession stand. I have such fond memories of my time in 4-H and FFA and how our projects brought our family together all through the summer. Now, with a family of my own, I am experiencing it from the other side. I am now the parent who pretends to be the judge as my kiddos circle around me with their heifers or drive their pigs. I get to be a parent who pitches in while my kids learn the responsibility of caring for an animal and develop a work ethic that will hopefully carry on with them for the rest of their lives. And what is even more exciting is I get to see my kids develop friendships with amazing families in our county and across the Commonwealth. Of course, it is also fun to see former 4-Hers and FFAers who now have kids of their own showing. It’s no different with the Beef Checkoff. Summer is the pinnacle of grilling season when family, food and even fairs come together. KBC provides recipes and give-a-ways to Beef Cattle Associations who are showcasing their best beef recipes during county fairs, festivals, and even family cookouts. Burger Weeks tantalize tastebuds with delicious beef burgers in restaurants all over Lexington and Louisville. Restaurants lure diners in with summer steak specials while sharing their knowledge of beef from pasture to plate. Hometown butchers highlighting their meat case with strip steaks and gourmet
64 • Cow Country • August
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Bluegrass Hospitality Group Staff Training. Hometown Butcher Promotion
