The Farm Family of the Day program is a new addition to the N.C. State Fair. The program recognizes 11 farm families -one for every day of the State Fair – who work hard everyday to impact our state’s agriculture industry. Families either nominated themselves or were nominated by members of the community. Thanks to Tractor Supply Company for sponsoring this program, which runs Oct. 14-24.
Kee-Lang Farms in Trenton is a second generation hog farm founded on hard work, dedication and family. First started in 1995, the farm is now home to a total of seven hog houses as well as 30 Angus beef cattle. Not only has this family been honored as one of our 2021 N.C. State Fair Farm Families of the Day, but they were also recognized as the Murphy Brown Farm of the Year, and, current owner Ronnie Mills was named, Farmer of the Year in Jones County.
Langley Mills, daughter of Ronnie Mills, is proud of the work being done through her family farm and the morals it has instilled in both her and her sister, Keely.
In fact, the farm name, Kee-Lang Farm, is a combination of these sisters names, representing the family’s importance and love for one another. “Farming is not a business but a lifestyle,” Langley said. “I have always been proud of the work ethic that my grandfather and dad have shown my sister and me. These are skills that I hope to pass on to my children one day.” Langley’s grandfather continues to work on the farm each day at 88 years old and claims that it is what has kept him going through the years.
Growing up on the farm, Langley and Keely not only learned a lot about farming and it’s importance to our state, but established a lot of memories on the land itself, giving the family farm a special place in their hearts.
“This farm is where we spent our summers, celebrated birthdays and shared so many memories, from the garden and learning how to ride bikes to fishing in the pond,” she said. “This farm holds our fondest moments.” This passion for family and desire to influence the community through agriculture is one of the reasons they were selected as an N.C. Farm Family of the Day.
The small town of Trenton provides a tight-knit community for the Mills family to be involved with. “In this town, community is everything,” Langley said. “Everyone is family and somehow involved in the farming industry.”
In addition to providing fresh, local and high-quality meat products to customers, the family also is a sponsor for the local high school, Relay for Life and Distinguished Young Woman Scholarship program.
Farm owner Ronnie Mills prides himself on providing for his family and community as well as educating young people about the agriculture industry. “My dad provides young and aspiring farmers with training and experience to help them develop their professional career,” Langley said.
This passion for the future of agriculture is vitally important and we appreciate the work of farmers like Ronnie to build them up for success.
The N.C. State Fair has always been a tradition for the Mills family, both in work and play. In previous years, the family has enjoyed time together volunteering at the milk booth or helping work the parking lot.
“We have always been involved while attending the State Fair,” Langley said. “And while our favorite thing to do has always been the agriculture and farm exhibits, we can’t forget about the incredible food, countless rides and family entertainment.”
If you happen to see the Mills family today at the N.C. State Fair, be sure to congratulate them on this honor of being selected as a the Oct. 23 N.C. Farm Family of the Day and thank them for all their hard work in the agriculture industry!
