Artwork by
Dennis Murphy

For the students, by the students

Missouri Farmers Union Hosts 5th Annual State Convention
Silvia Christen, Corner Post Staff

February 1, 2004 - The Missouri Farmers Union hosted its fifth annual state convention January 30 and 31 at the Ramada Inn in Columbia, Missouri. This year's theme was "Rural Missouri-New Visions at the Crossroads" and focused on the revitalization of rural communities, and the protection of family farm agriculture. Family farmers, farm groups, food activists, workers, faith organizations and small businesses convened as a strong coalition of advocates for sustaining Missouri's agriculture and rural communities.

The day began with an address from Dr. Daryll Ray, University of Tennessee Director of Agriculture Policy Analysis Center. He spoke to the group about changes that need to be made in agricultural policy to ensure the future of small farms. He also addressed the need for global policy changes.

Following the speech, a panel of state legislators participated in discussion and answered questions regarding legislation affecting rural communities, including education, tax credits, agricultural policy and rural/urban cooperation. Representative Wes Shoemyer moderated the discussion between Senator Joan Bray (D), Representative Rachel Bringer (D), Senator Doyle Childers (R), Senator Maida Coleman (D) and Senator Sarah Steelman (R).

The afternoon session included speeches from Missouri Farmers Union President Russ Kremer, and Kelsey Thompson, an MU student. Kremer spoke positively about the future of Missouri agriculture, and commended the Farmers Union members for their leadership and commitment throughout the year.

National Farmers Union President David Fredrickson presented Kremer with a National Cooperative Science Award for his outstanding work in Cooperative development within the state of Missouri.

The Keynote speaker during the evening meal was Alan Guebert, an award-winning freelance agriculture journalist.

Saturday's events included business meetings, and discussion of the Missouri Farmers Union Bylaws. Policy changes were made, and new officers were elected for the upcoming year.The convention delegates voted on legislative priorities for the upcoming year, and set goals for future actions.

For more information visit the website at www.missourifarmersunion.org

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