The Center for Rural Development

09/11/2026

Today, we pause to remember and honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and the courageous men and women who selflessly answered the call to help others.

Twenty-five years later, we continue to honor their sacrifice, remember their courage, and reflect on the strength and unity shown in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Their legacy remains forever in our hearts and in the history of our nation.

We Remember. We Honor. We Will Never Forget.

09/10/2026

2025 Rogers Scholar Tatum Begley was inspired by her late grandfather’s generosity and his commitment to helping families in Eastern Kentucky.

As part of her Rogers Scholars community service project, Tatum created “Hope in a Box” blessing boxes and filled with canned and nonperishable food items for those who may need a little extra help. The boxes are located at the entrances of Stinnett Volunteer Fire Department and Stinnett Elementary in Leslie County.

The project was inspired by Tatum’s grandfather, Jack, and his nonprofit organization, Hope in the Hills, which has provided food to thousands of families across Eastern Kentucky.

“People tell me and my family all of the time how much my grandfather meant to them,” Tatum said. “That’s why I knew I wanted to do something similar. My papaw Jack is one of my biggest inspirations for this project and I’d like to be just as helpful as him one day.”

Through The Center for Rural Development’s Rogers Scholars program, graduates are required to complete a community service project within one year of finishing the program.

09/09/2026

You're cordially invited to attend our upcoming Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon on Tuesday, October 6th.

We are excited to host United States Congressman James Comer as our guest speaker.

James Comer was elected to Congress in 2016 to represent the 1st Congressional District, which covers 35 counties from the Mississippi River to Central Kentucky. He currently serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, where he aggressively advocates for reducing waste, fraud and abuse in government.

In 2000, Comer was elected to serve the first of six terms in the Kentucky House of Representatives. With a reputation for a solid work ethic and conservative values, he was named National Republican Freshman Legislator of the Year during his first term.

Comer was elected to serve as Kentucky's Commissioner of Agriculture in 2011, and inherited growing problems at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. He immediately set out to work in a bipartisan way to clean up scandal, restore confidence, and crack down on waste, fraud, and abuse at the agency. Comer spearheaded initiatives to grow Kentucky's rural economy and increase opportunities for Kentucky farmers, while also standing up for taxpayers by selling unneeded equipment and returning money to the state treasury.

After his election to Congress in 2016, Comer immediately set out to replicate his record of conservative accomplishment in Washington. This includes serving as a member of the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Committee that negotiated an agreement to pass a farm bill making vital improvements to America's agricultural economy. He serves as the only formerly-elected Commissioner of Agriculture in Congress and remains active on policy matters facing the farm community.

He is married to TJ Comer and they have three children - Reagan, Harlan and Aniston.

PLEASE NOTE: With one of our largest crowds of the year expected, seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. While individual seats cannot be reserved in advance, 8-person tables may be purchased for $96 per table, allowing your group to sit together and guaranteeing your table for the luncheon.

Lunch will be held at The Center for Rural Development and will begin at 12:00 (Noon).

09/08/2026

Start Fall off Right at The Center for Rural Development!🍁🍂
Don’t miss out - Visit https://centertech.com/upcoming-events for a complete list of events, ticket details, and registration links.
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09/10: Pulaski County Denim & Diamonds: Retro Slumber Party
09/12: Pulaski County Miss Abilities Pageant 2026
09/17: School Time Theatre: Kentucky Shakespeare: Living History
09/19: Girls Day Out Somerset Fall 2026
09/23: Farmer Appreciation Day
09/29: 5th Annual Imagine the Possibilities Technology Showcase

09/08/2026

* SHOP LOCAL. SHOP HANDMADE. SHOP THE SHELTOWEE HOLIDAY MARKET

The holiday shopping season is almost here, and one of Somerset’s favorite holiday traditions is returning!

Sheltowee Artisans presents the 32nd Annual Holiday Market, featuring an incredible collection of handmade arts, crafts, gifts, food, and products from talented artisans and local vendors.

* Saturday, November 14 | 10 AM–5 PM
* Sunday, November 15 | 10 AM–4 PM

The Center for Rural Development
2292 South Highway 27
Somerset, KY 42501

You’ll find something for everyone, including:

Wood | Ceramics | Jewelry | Knives | Glass | Quilts | Paintings | Photography | Fiber Art | Candles | Local Farms | Food Vendors | …and MORE!

BEST OF ALL — ADMISSION IS FREE!

Skip the ordinary and give something truly special this holiday season. Come discover unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting talented artisans, makers, farmers, and local vendors!

Mark your calendar and make the Sheltowee Holiday Market part of your holiday tradition!

09/04/2026

In observance of Labor Day, The Center for Rural Development and the Rural Domestic Preparedness Consortium celebrate the dedication, hard work, and service of those who serve, protect, and work to make our rural communities stronger, safer, and more resilient.

We are grateful for all those who contribute each day to the strength and well-being of the communities we serve.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Labor Day!

09/03/2026

🎉 FIRST PUBLIC SHOPPING DAY IS HERE!! 🎉

Come shop Kiddy Kats TODAY from 9AM–9PM 🛍️

We’ve got racks FULL of amazing finds you won’t want to miss—get here early for the best selection!

💳 We accept:
• Cash
• Card
• Tap to Pay
• Apple Pay
• Check (with driver’s license)

Grab your friends, bring your bags, and come score some deals!! 💕

09/02/2026

‼IMPORTANT EVENT UPDATE‼

The Centered with Christ concert, originally scheduled for September 13, is being expanded into a special Weekend of Worship and will now take place January 22–24, 2027, at The Center for Rural Development.

Caleb and John will be in concert on January 24, 2027, as part of this Worship event. People of the Earth will be in concert with us on all THREE dates. And many more, as well as speakers and guest artists; watch for an upcoming announcement.

We are excited about this expanded event and look forward to sharing additional details, including the weekend schedule and ticket information, in the coming days.

Please save the new dates: January 22–24, 2027.

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to welcoming you for a meaningful weekend of worship, fellowship, and music.

09/02/2026

Today at The Center for Rural Development! Shop Kiddy Kats Event!

KIDDY KATS SHOPPING HOURS TODAY 🛍️
Wednesday September 2nd!

👶 New & Expectant Moms
Birth – 1 year
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Today!)

💼 Special Entry (12:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Teachers • Medical • Military • Professional Staff

🛒 We Accept:
Cash • Card • Tap to Pay • Apple Pay • Check (with driver’s license)

Come shop the best deals first—we can’t wait to see you! 💕

09/02/2026

Another great Somerset Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce luncheon!