Danforth, Kinder to be in Neosho Tuesday

A couple of Republican heavy-hitters will be in Neosho Tuesday night. The following news release was issued last week:

Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador John Danforth will deliver a special message at a local Southwest Missouri Republican event; Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder will also be speaking. The Annual Free Watermelon Feed, hosted by the Republican Women of Newton County and Newton County Republican Central Committee, will be held Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at 6:30P.M. This event will be at Big Spring Park, 308 West Spring St, Neosho, MO 64850. Special guests also include two candidates for State Auditor.

“The Free Watermelon Feed is an informal occasion that allows you to connect with friends, neighbors and prominent Republicans from Missouri like Sen. Danforth and Lt. Gov. Kinder,” said Missouri Speaker of the House Ron Richard who represents Jasper and Newton counties. “This is an entertaining, all-ages political event the whole family can attend.”

The Free Watermelon Feed is open for everyone from surrounding counties to attend. Watermelon and bottled water will be provided—free of charge. Bringing your lawn chairs and appetite is recommended.

John Danforth is a fifth generation Missourian and served Missouri as State Attorney General and as a three term U.S. Senator from 1976 to 1994. Sen. Danforth also served as U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan and as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations under President George W. Bush.

Peter Kinder is a native of Cape Girardeau, MO and served 12 years as the State Senator for the 27th District. In 2001 Peter Kinder was elected President Pro Tem when the Republicans gained a majority in the Missouri Senate for the first time in 53 years. Elected Lt. Gov. in 2004, Peter Kinder was reelected to his second term in 2008

Republican candidates for State Auditor, State Representative Allen Icet and Ambassador Tom Schweich, will each have three minutes to address the Free Watermelon Feed attendees.

A straw poll will be available to those in attendance. The ballots will serve as entries into a 12 gauge and .22 ammunition raffle drawing to take place at the conclusion of the Free Watermelon Feed.

In case of rain, the Free Watermelon Feed will be moved to the Neosho Recreation Center at 418 Fairground Rd, Neosho, MO 64850.