FELTON, DE – Kent County Farm Bureau (KCFB) recognized members for their contributions to agriculture during the annual banquet, held September 28, 2026, at the Felton Fire Hall. The evening celebrated agricultural leadership, service, and the next generation of Delaware agriculture.
KCFB President James Minner welcomed members and guests to the annual banquet as the organization recognized individuals and families whose service and involvement continue to strengthen agriculture in Kent County.
Rising Star – Nathan and Mikayla Thompson
Nathan and Mikayla Thompson of Hartly were recognized as the 2026 Kent County Farm Bureau Rising Star Award honorees.
Nathan, a fifth-generation farmer, has been involved in agriculture from an early age and continues to support the industry through both his family farm and his own agricultural parts and equipment business.
He has served on the Delaware Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee for seven years, including multiple years as chair of the YF&R Tractor Pull Committee and as a member of its Fundraising Committee. Nathan also helped establish the International Harvester Collectors Club of Delaware, Chapter 46, serving three years as vice president before becoming president.
Together, Nathan and Mikayla are building their life with agriculture at its foundation while remaining committed to supporting the farming community and carrying agricultural traditions into the future.
“Their leadership, volunteerism, and passion for supporting fellow farmers reflect a dedication to strengthening Delaware agriculture today while helping ensure its traditions continue for generations to come,” Bobby Thompson said proudly while presenting the award to his grandson.
The couple also received tributes recognizing their achievement from the Kent County Levy Court and state elected officials.
Distinguished Service to Agriculture – Representative Charles Postles
State Representative Charles Postles of Milford received the 2026 Kent County Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award for his service to Delaware agriculture.
For 10 years, Postles has served as a state legislator and advocate for Delaware’s farming community. As a farmer, he brings firsthand agricultural experience to his work in the General Assembly and has supported policies affecting farmers and the agricultural industry.
His service to agriculture began before his legislative career. Postles served on the Delmarva poultry industry’s Board of Directors and as chairman of its Grower Committee. He is also a longtime member of Kent County Farm Bureau.
“Throughout his legislative career, he has championed the interests of farmers, supported policies that strengthen agriculture, and represented his farming community with pride,” KCFB Vice President David Marvel said while presenting the award.
Postles also received tributes from the Kent County Levy Court and state elected officials recognizing his service to agriculture.
Farm Family of the Year – The Palmer Family
The Palmer Family of Camden was named the 2026 Kent County Farm Family of the Year in recognition of five generations of dedication to Delaware agriculture.
Since 1979, the family has continued to grow and adapt its agricultural operation, which today includes turkeys, grain, hay, chickens, pigs, beef and other livestock, along with a year-round retail market, T A Farms.
In 2016, the next generation joined the operation as partners, continuing the family’s agricultural legacy. Beyond their farming operation, members of the Palmer family have served Delaware agriculture through Farm Bureau leadership, agricultural organizations, 4-H, school programs, farm tours and community outreach.
Today, a fifth generation is growing up on the farm and learning the values of hard work, responsibility and service that have guided the family for decades.
“Their longstanding dedication to farming, their community, and Delaware agriculture makes them truly deserving of this recognition,” KCFB Secretary Caroline Kane said while presenting the award.
The Palmer Family also received tributes from the Kent County Levy Court and state elected officials.
Livestock Rate of Gain Awards
Drew Harris, Kent County Agriculture Extension Agent, presented the Rate of Gain awards recognizing 4-H and FFA members in Kent County whose livestock achieved the highest rate of gain among animals shown at the Delaware State Fair.
London Mohr and Emma Fair, both from Harrington, tied for the highest rate of gain in sheep for FFA at 0.686 lbs/day.
Lucas Scott of Lincoln earned the highest rate of gain in sheep for 4H at .586 lbs./day.
Hadleigh Gissy of Harrington earned the highest rate of gain in swine for 4H at 1.571 lbs./day.
Kirra Gardner of Hartly earned the highest rate of gain in the goat department for 4H at 0.51 lbs./day.
For more information on Kent County Farm Bureau, visit https://defb.org/about-us/counties/kent-county-farm-bureau/.
