Newton County Republicans to Host Annual Free Bean Feed Ahead of November Election

NEOSHO, MO –The Newton County Republican Central Committee will host its annual Free Bean Feed Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Neosho Middle School Learning Center, bringing together candidates, community members and voters ahead of the November general election.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner served at 6 p.m. The event will take place at 1400 Hale McGinty Drive in Neosho.

Nick Myers, chairman of the state GOP, said the annual gathering will serve as a kickoff for the party's efforts to encourage voter participation ahead of Election Day on Nov. 3..

The program will feature Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick and U.S. Rep. Eric Burlison, both of whom are seeking reelection. Additional speakers will be announced as the event approaches.

Newton County Assessor Cheryle Perkins, who is running for the Missouri House of Representatives in the 160th District, will also speak. State Sen. Jill Carter will discuss initiative petition reform, Amendment 6 and her reelection campaign, while Newton County Sheriff Matt Stewart will address Amendment 8.

Myers said the program will cover contested races and ballot measures, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more before heading to the polls.

"We're going to cover the entire ballot at that event," Myers said. "We're going to talk about each one of those items. So we'll have presentations on that and we'll have sample ballots at the event for you to look at before you vote."

In addition to candidate presentations, the program will include discussions about proposed amendments, ballot questions and judicial retention. Organizers plan to provide information about Amendment 3, other constitutional questions and the judicial retention ballot.

Myers said the event is intended to help voters understand not only the candidates running for office but also the potential long-term effects of ballot measures.

"These questions on the Constitution, they may never be voted on again," Myers said. "So not only is it who's going to be administering the laws, it is the laws themselves that you're going to be voting on."

He encouraged voters to research the issues and make informed decisions before casting their ballots.

"If you know how you're going to vote, you can go vote today," Myers said. "But if you're not sure how to vote, come to the bean feed. That's a good opportunity to hear presentations on the entire ballot and you'll be informed."

Myers also emphasized the importance of participating in the election, saying voters have an opportunity to influence the direction of their communities and state.

"Well, you know, that's your opportunity to have your voice heard," Myers said. "It's very important that you go out and make your voice heard, but be informed when you vote."

The event will also include a silent auction hosted by the Republican Women of Newton County. The auction will feature a variety of items, and those interested in contributing or learning more may contact RWNC President Chris Yaudas at 417-434-1218.

Dinner will include ham and beans, cornbread, dessert and iced tea, catered by the Neosho High School Future Farmers of America. Coffee will be provided by Joplin Greenhouse and The Coffee Shop.

Organizers will also hold a straw quiz, with prizes awarded by drawing at the end of the event.

Myers said the gathering is open to Republican attendees from across Southwest Missouri and encouraged people to invite friends and neighbors.

Those who have already voted are also welcome to attend and can learn about opportunities to volunteer in efforts to encourage others to vote.

"If you've already voted and you want to help turn out more people to vote on Election Day, come to the Bean Feed and we'll sign you up there as a volunteer to help turn your friends and neighbors out, inform them and get them out to vote," Myers said.

Although tickets are not required, organizers are requesting an estimated head count to ensure enough food and seating are available.

Those planning to attend may email [email protected] or call 417-623-2214.

Additional information, including the event flyer, sample ballot and voter guide covering ballot issues, is available at NewtonCountyRepublicans.org and on the Newton County Republican Central Committee's Facebook page.

Myers encouraged eligible voters to take advantage of the available resources before Election Day.

"If you're eligible to vote, you should go do it," Myers said. "But be informed when you vote."