Beech Tree News Network

Tuesday, September 12, members of the Butler County Farm Bureau gathered at the Eva J. Hawes Agricultural Center for the 79th annual membership meeting.  After a welcome by Shane Wells and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Maggie Drake, Patrick Daugherty provided the invocation.  After a dinner prepared by Green River Catering, Vice President Gregory Drake II introduced the guests.

Joey Kirby presented the Outstanding Young Farm Family award to the C.W. and Michelle Taylor, and children Garrison and Mollie.  The Taylors have cows, chicken houses, and crops. 

The Outstanding Service to Agriculture award presented by Dwayne McKinney went to Roger Tanner who has served Butler County in various capacities. 

The Distinguished Service to Farm Bureau was presented by James Runion, Agency Manager, to former Farm Bureau Agent Jack Clark. After 16 years of service to Butler County,  Clark is now the agency manager at Hickman County.

President Shane Wells opened the business session.  Secretary/Treasurer Robert Taylor read the treasurer’s report and annual minutes.  Danny Farris read the resolution’s committee report. The Scholarship Report was presented by Amanda Taylor. Maddie McKinney was the recipient of the scholarship and is currently attending Murray State University.
Women’s Committee chair Rita Drake gave the women’s activity report.  Young Farmer Chair Joey Kirby presented the Young Farmer’s report. 

Agency manager James Runion gave the Insurance report. Holding his son Ben, Runion emphasizes that a lot had changed over the past year. He spoke briefly about texting and driving stating your vehicle can travel 300 feet in 5 seconds. To drive his point home the first person to text James won $100.  Reminder: Free Flu shots at the Farm Bureau Office on October 5th starting at 9:00 am.

Chairman Don Sullivan gave the Nomination committee report.  Shane Wells presented the election of Directors and Officers.
2017 Butler County Farm Bureau Directors:
Woody and Margaret Moore
Don and Barbara Sullivan
 Robert and Amanda Taylor
Gregory and Shanna Drake
Darren and Amy Rice
Shane and Felicia Wells
Johnny and Pam Rose
Caleb and Amelia Smithson
President Shane Wells and Vice President Gregory Drake were also re-elected.  Door prizes were awarded, and the meeting was adjourned.