USDA/FSA Executive State Director Cody Simpson Speaks At Dillon County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

By Betsy Finklea
The Dillon County Farm Bureau held their annual meeting on Monday, September 8, at the Twin Lakes Country Club.
Keith Allen, president, led the meeting. After a delicious meal, the meeting was held with some initial business to start off the meeting including the approval of the minutes, treasurer’s report, and President’s report. A county agency report was also given.
The report from the nominating committee was approved.
The officers of the Dillon County Farm Bureau are as follows:
President-Keith Allen
Vice-President-Cullen Bryant
Secretary-Joe Gleason
Treasurer-Tommy Stephens
State Director-Cullen Bryant
Alternate State Direct0r-Joe Gleason
Executive Committee: Keith Allen, Cullen Bryant, Joe Gleason, and Tommy Stephens
Directors: Elizabeth Snipes, Daniel Coleman, Randy Berry, Caleb Coleman, Heather Benjamin, Daniel Baxley, Fitzhugh Bethea, Caleb Miller, Curt McSwain, Bruce “Sonny” Price, Jr., Gerald Arnette, Tre Coleman, Harold Gasque, Joe Hayes, and Wesley Price.
Woman’s Committee Chairman-Kate A. Miller
Legislative & Public Affairs Chairman-Cullen Bryant
Young Farmers Committee Chairman-Caleb Miller
Voting Delegates: Cullen Bryant, Joe Gleason, Bruce “Sonny” Price, Jr.; Alternates are Daniel Coleman and Daniel Baxley.

The Dillon County Farm Bureau presented a resolution to the family of Lavern Brigman at their annual meeting on Monday, September 8th. The resolution read as follows:
A Resolution For Our Dear Departed Friend
Whereas, Lavern Brigman, because of his love for his fellow man served and dedicated a great amount of his life to the Dillon County Farm Bureau;
Whereas, he was an advocate for agriculture; and
Whereas, the Eternal God in His wisdom saw fit to call Lavern, our fellow farmer, to be with Him;
Whereas, we are sure that Lavern has found a way to have grits in heaven;
We recognize that the Lord has accepted Lavern into heaven where he will have eternal life.
Now, therefore, let it be resolved by the Dillon County Farm Bureau Board of Directors:
1. That we express our sorrow for the loss of our friend and fellow farmer and dedicated board member;
2. That we appreciate his loyal service to agriculture and Farm Bureau;
3. That we express our sincere gratitude for a job well done;
4. That a copy of this resolution by presented to the family of Lavern Brigman.
Signed by Keith Allen, President, and Cullen Bryant, Vice-President and State Director
Keith Allen made the presentation, and Lavern’s daughter, Caroline Brigman Mishoe, accepted the plaque on behalf of the Brigman family. Many stories were shared about Lavern and his love of grits and agriculture. Caroline said that he was proud of agriculture not only in South Carolina, but in this country. Keith Allen said that he was a good person and will be missed.

The Dillon County Farm Bureau presented Dillon County Emergency Services with a grain bin facility rescue tube at their annual meeting on Monday, September 8th. Cullen Bryant said this had been a project near and dear to his heart since 2018 when someone he know was a victim of an accident. He said he was proud they were able to do this and hoped that it would never have to be used. Emergency Services Director Daniel Moody spoke about an incident that happened recently where this type of equipment was used. He thanked the Farm Bureau for this donation. Dillon County Council Chairman Stevie Grice also thanks the Farm Bureau for this equipment. Pictured are Keith Allen, President of the Dillon County Farm Bureau; Dillon County Council Chairman Stevie Grice; Emergency Services Director Daniel Moody; and Cullen Bryant.
Cullen Bryant introduced the guest speaker USDA/FSA Executive State Director Cody Simpson, who gave an informative presentation. he talked about the value of Inland Port Dillon. He said South Carolina is feeding the world, and it all starts in Dillon County. He said Dillon County has a history rooted in agriculture. Simpson went on to speak about how FSA is working to keep American agriculture growing.
After his presentation, some flowers were given away and the meeting disbanded.