Steve Willard was elected president of Missouri Cattlemen's Association for 2009 during the 41st Meeting, Dec. 13 in held in Springfield. The Willow Springs beef producer has served as first vice president and chaired the MCA membership committee for the last year.

Willard owns and operates Clear Springs Ranch and launched Open Range, a restaurant in Willow Springs last March. Willard has been a long-time supporter and spokesperson for the association.

Jason McCann, Miller, was elected first vice president and Mike Grimes, Butler, was voted in as second vice president. Ryan Bailey, Curryville was re-elected secretary/treasurer.

MCA membership elected seven new regional vice presidents to serve the membership across the state. Region 1-Steve Krueger, Kahoka; Region 2-Sheryl Brewe, Marthasville; Region 3-Kenny Beltz, Willow Springs; Region 4-Carl Messner, Albany; Region 5-Gary Copenhaver, Lexington; Region 6-Lonny Duckworth, Butler; and Region 7-Ben Fizette, Golden City.

More than 800 members and guests attended the annual convention and trade show, which showcases the latest innovations and products in the beef industry and sets policy for the association. MCA is the voice of 65,000 beef producers in Missouri and represents their interests in state and federal legislation.

Source: MCA