2017 marked the 3^rd Annual Agriculture Appreciation Breakfast which is held to raise awareness of National Farm-City Week in Simpson County.  This event was presented by the Simpson County Extension Service in conjunction with the Simpson County Farm Bureau Federation, the Franklin-Simpson Chamber of Commerce and local farmers.  It is held in November during National Farm-City week in downtown Franklin at the Franklin First United Methodist Church.  This breakfast serves as an opportunity for local businessmen and women to enjoy fellowship with local farmers.  This breakfast allows everyone to say “Thank You” to those who work diligently throughout the year to raise the food products that we are so fortunate to enjoy. 

The breakfast begins with FFA and/or 4-H members who have given various speeches ranging from what agriculture has meant in their lives to their country ham speech. The program also features a keynote speaker that highlight achievements and challenges facing agriculture today. The breakfast features a meal that showcases many local farm products, and emphasizes that local foods are available year-round, especially due to the increasing popularity of high tunnel vegetable production in Simpson County.  

At the conclusion of the program, a country ham is sold and has raised between $500 and $600 each year. This money goes directly to fund the Simpson County 4-H Country Ham Project. Without these funds, it would be impossible to allow as many 4-H children to participate in the country ham project. The breakfast has provided invaluable experience for youth as they present their speeches to large crowds. This program is part of an ongoing effort to highlight agricultural awareness in Simpson County.