BOLIVAR, MO – Along with all of the family fun activities on tap during Missouri Beef Days 2024,
guests can also expect to learn more about the importance of the beef industry to Polk County as well
as the state in general.
“Since year one, Missouri Beef Days has always been about celebrating, appreciating, and educating
everyone about all that the beef industry means to the livelihood of Polk County and beyond,” said
event organizer Matt Henenberg. “If we ever take for granted this way of life, we risk losing it.”
Just how important is the beef industry to the area? According to Missouri Department of Agriculture
statistics, Missouri ranks third nationally in the number of beef cows with more than two million head
and is consistently one of the leading states for total cattle production. Locally, USDA estimates show
Polk County consistently ranking as one of the top three counties in the state in the number of head
of beef cattle, as well as one of the top 20 counties in the nation.
Accordingly, the weeklong Missouri Beef Days event includes multiple activities that, together, fulfill
the trifold mission of celebrating, appreciating, and educating about the beef trade. These include a
Classic Junior Jackpot Show, ag expo, rodeo and market, beef cook-off, other beef tastings, cowboy
church, western fashion show, art show, and much more.
“One event in particular is very meaningful in honoring the industry,” added Henenberg. “The Boots
& Bling banquet – sort of a cowboy formal – combines good food and fun with various Polk County
Cattlemen’s Association Hall of Fame awards.”
According to the event’s Facebook page, nominations are being accepted now through April 26 for
the Pioneer award and the Cattleman of the Year award. The Pioneer award honors former or
current beef producers with a record of dedication to Polk County’s beef industry, and may be
awarded posthumously. The Cattleman of the Year award bestows special recognition on one
particular Polk County beef producer or partner whose contributions of time, talent, and service have
contributed significantly to the advancement of the beef industry in Polk County. Awards are
presented during the Boots & Bling banquet sponsored by Edward Jones, to be held at the Diamond S
Indoor Arena in Bolivar on Saturday, May 4.
Each year, the Polk County Cattlemen and Cattlewomen are heavily involved in MBD activities –
including the preparation of beef lunches served to hundreds of students – that help raise public
awareness of the beef industry.
The Missouri Beef Days Facebook page includes a link to the nomination form for awards, and
nominations may be sent to Ed Vest by email (vestlanefarms@gmail.com) or mail (1413 West
Broadway, Bolivar, MO 65613).
Previous Polk County Cattlemen’s Association
Hall of Fame Inductees
Cattleman of the Year:
2023 – Mark Stanek
2022 – Keith Stevens
Pioneer Award:
2023 – Dennis (Doc) Hood, JC Meador
2022 – Robert Kifer, Velbert Walker
In addition to the Missouri Beef Days Facebook page, more information (including a complete
calendar of events and ticket purchase links) can be found at www.missouribeefdays.com or by
emailing info@missouribeefdays.com.
