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'Down on the Farm' Event Memorializes Beloved Farmer

An annual agricultural event provided fun and paid homage to one of the community beloved farmers.

The Blair County Chamber of Commerce held its "Down on the Farm" event at Kulp Family Dairy LLC Thursday, Sept. 30, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The event is run through the Commerce's Farm-City committee as a way to raise awareness of the agricultural industry in Blair County.

"Agriculture continues to be the number one industry in the county," said Joe Hurd, president of the Commerce. "It is an industry that we often take for granted."

Each year, the committee chooses a different farm to host the event. It is the committee's largest event in terms of participation.

"It's a very family friendly event," Hurd said.

Before festivities began, presentations were made in honor of Larry Kulp, the patriarch of the Kulp family who passed away December 2020.

Kulp was a very active member in the community. He served on the Spring Cove School Board and was the representative for the Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center. He was also a corporate board member for Land O Lakes.

He and his wife, Mary Ann, ran the farm as Lar-Ann Dairy for 26 years before passing it to their son Phil in 1999.

State Representative Judy Ward provided a message of condolences to the Kulp family.

"Mr. Kulp represented many things to many people," she said. "Among that, a family member, a dedicated worker and a valued community steward."

She said his heart and love would continue to be cherished by his family and the community.

Blair County Commissioner Amy Bishop read a proclamation on behalf of the Commissioners.

She read his many accolades over the years, which included the Master Farmer Award.

"Mr. Kulp was a strong, kind hearted man of God whose benevolent in Blair County was exceptional and his encouragement was valued," she said.

Hurd said he never saw Kulp without a smile, showing his love for his work and family at each moment

Kulp's son Phil thanked the representatives for their honors. He said the family ideals placed by his father would continue with the farm.

"It was great working with my dad," he said. "Now it's the next generation's turn to take over and do what they want with agriculture."

After the speeches a pulled pork dinner was catered by Holland Brothers Meats of Duncansville. Drinks were provided by Ritchey's Dairy.

At the event, families had the chance to take hay rides and go through a hay bale maze. There were also crafts provided by Begin With Us Preschool.

Dairy Princess Alternate Daisy Hetzel was also in attendance to meet the community and provided information about dairy in Blair County.

The next event held by the Farm-City Committee will be its annual dinner Nov. 10 at the Freedom Township Firehall.

 

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