The Clay County Cattlemen Association held their annual meeting banquet on Jan. 15 at The Great Hall of Royal.

The Cattlemen started the event with a social hour, followed by a bountiful catered meal. They enjoyed conversation with fellow members before guest speakers took the stage going over the past year in the industry. Speeches included Branding Iron proceeds, sponsor highlights, scholarship information and brief presentations by the current Beef Ambassadors, Gracie Dehrkoop and Saul Christensen.

IESHA TOFT/SENTINEL-NEWS

2022 Friend of the Industry honoree Tom Olin thanked everyone for the honor and promoted volunteering whenever possible.

Highlighted members of the evening were retiring board members Steve Steinbeck, Matt Cooper and Brendan Steinbeck, alongside new board members Charlie Woodall and Mitch Fahnlander. Member Tom Olin was honored as the 2021 "Friend of the Industry" and gifted a plaque for all of his continued support and volunteerism as a Cattleman.

Ending the award's ceremony, retiring board president Steve Steinbeck was surprised at the receipt of his award and new found title of "Cattleman of the Year". Taking over the reigns of president is former VP Andrew Quail, whose role will now be filled by Wes Christensen.

Following the awards ceremony was a brief live auction before local band She's With Us took the stage to end the night with an eclectic mix of songs. More than 250 guests were present for the event, making it a successful return to Cattlemen banquets after a brief pause due to the pandemic.