BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

The Iredell County Farm Bureau held its annual meeting Thursday evening at the Statesville Civic Center.

The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the agricultural industry — and honor two pillars of the county’s farming community. 

The meeting room was packed with area farmers, their family members, elected representatives, and others who support the agricultural community.

During the evening, Farm Bureau elections were held, FFA chapters from area high schools gave reports, representatives of the Young Farmers & Ranchers spoke, and other state officials were represented.

Most importantly, Iredell’s farmers and other key players in the agricultural community were acknowledged.

“They’re the backbone of our country,” Neal Johnson said.

State Treasurer Dale Folwell agreed, applauding all the farmers who work so hard to bring food to the table.

“Food doesn’t come from a store, it comes from a farm,” he said.

Iredell Farm Bureau President Doug Holland emphasized how hard the farmers work and listed the many activities the Farm Bureau has participated in.

“The Farm Bureau has been busy this year,” he said. “We’re a very active program.”

The bureau helped with the District Dairy, the Kentucky Disaster Relief, EMS recognition, FCA Coaches dinner, Friday Night Football, ICSO Deputy of Month, Teen Suicide Prevention, Iredell Garden Fair, the Iredell County Agricultural Fair, Wake Up To Agriculture Day, the Livestock Club, National Archery in Schools, and many more projects.

The highlight of the evening was presenting two families with the “Ken Vaughn Friend of Agriculture Award.”

Charles Carter and Bob Stamey were honored posthumously for their contributions to the community and beyond.

“Both were strong agricultural advocates,” Holland said.

Charles Carter served 47 years on Iredell County’s Farm Bureau, and was known as an “accomplished poultry farmer.”

“What an honor to have known him,” Holland said. “He always talked eloquently about family, farm, and his faith. He would always begin by talking about his faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Holland shared that Carter wasn’t afraid to speak his mind.

“He always had an opinion and was not afraid to give it— we needed that.”

Bob Stamey was also highly valued, respected, and loved by many. The global cattle trader died on August 22 in an accident.

“We lost one of the best,” Holland said.

He shared that Stamey sold cattle in 30 countries across the world, hosted many functions on his property, and was a champion of young people.

“He gave 100 percent,” Holland said. “If he got behind it, it would be all the way or not at all. We’re not going to replace him.”

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