On August 4, 2010, the Dade County Farm Bureau met in Lockwood at the American Legion building at 7:00 p.m. for their annual meeting and fish fry. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, followed with the prayer given by Joe McGee. There were about 100 members and guests present. The keynote speaker was Charlie Kruse, Missouri Farm Bureau President. Accompanying him was his wife, Pam.
Charlie E. Kruse has served Missouri Farm Bureau Federation for 18 years and also as a member of the American Farm Bureau Board of Directors. During this time, Missouri Farm Bureau has grown from 77,000 to 108,000 member families. Charlie and his wife, Pam, farm near Dexter, MO and he has spent most of his career working in and for agriculture. He has served on many committees, both State and National. He has received many distinguished service awards.
Other special guests that spoke were Carl Bastin and Beth and Glen Cope and Leann. Both men are state Farm Bureau Board Members. There were also guests from Greene, Barry, Lawrence, Jasper, Barton, Polk and Vernon counties.
The meeting was organized by Gena Hargis. Board members, wives and members all pitched in to help. Wives brought corn bread and desserts. The fish was cooked by head cook, Drexel Atkisson, Robin Farmer and board members. The food was very good with board members and wives doing a fantastic job of preparing and serving the meal.
Officers and board members were elected. Door prizes were donated by Lockwood MFA, S & H Farm Supply, Meeks Lumber, Liberty Bank and Pennington Seed. The meeting adjourned at about 9 p.m.
