Broward County Farm Bureau

Speakers & Awards Featured at Broward Farm Bureau Events

The Broward County Farm Bureau’s 2024 annual meeting was held Nov. 17 at the Davie Womans’ Club. Broward County Farm Bureau President Fred Segal emphasized that agriculture is still very active in the urban county.

The first speaker at the meeting was Florida House Rep. Daley. Segal acknowledged Daley’s continued efforts in the state capital on behalf of equines in agriculture with a plaque for the “Broward County Farm Bureau Legislative Appreciation Award.”

Property Appraiser Kiar introduced Davie Mayor Judy Paul, former Property Appraiser Lori Parrish, and his father Monroe Kiar, a past mayor of Davie, and thanked them for their help and inspiration.

Next was the introduction of Farm Bureau Insurance’s Broward Agency Manager Ray Palhegyi. He briefly spoke on the relationship of the association members to its insurance arm, and noted he is proud that claims are paid promptly. Segal credited Palhegyi’s office for the growth of the association.

Segal shared that Broward County Farm Bureau annually sponsors 20 school gardens as well as the 4-H Master Gardner program and described how the agricultural organization partners with other groups such as Kiwanis, chambers of commerce and others to benefit community members. Broward County Farm Bureau members also help with the Kiwanis “Christmas in July” event which provides clothes & school supplies to over 5,400 homeless children.

Several other awards were given out. The doors to the Pompano Beach State Farmer’s Market officially opened for business in Nov. 16, 1939. It was renamed the Edward L. Myrick State Farmers Market by the Florida legislature in honor of longtime occupant Ed Myrick. Segal noted that whenever Broward County Farm Bureau held a fund-raising event to help with its education programs that Ed always made sure fresh fruits and vegetables were donated. Thus, Myrick was honored with the “Appreciation Award for supporting Broward County Farm Bureau Programs.”

The final plaque went to beekeeper and Broward Farm Bureau member Dr. Leo Gosser. Dr. Gosser and his wife visit retail food stores, gather outdated but still edible produce and distribute to those in need. In the past 12 months, this couple has given out 50 tons of food. They were recognized with a plaque for their outstanding volunteer service.