Steve Willard of Texas County was elected president of Missouri Cattlemen’s Association for 2009 during the 41st annual meeting Dec. 13 in Springfield.
Willard, of Willow Springs, served as first vice president and chairman of the membership committee for the last year.
Willard is a native of Georgia but has made his home in Texas County. 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 of Miller was elected first vice president and Mike Grimes of Butler was voted in as second vice president. Ryan Bailey of Curryville was re-elected secretary/treasurer.
Kenny Beltz of Willow Springs was also named a region vice president in Region 3.
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 more than 65,000 beef producers in Missouri and represents their interests in state and federal legislation.