About 200 people attended Saturday’s Greene County Cattlemen Association’s annual banquet and fundraiser.

There were over 50 live auction items that brought in $17,700.  Last year’s total was about $17,500.  A new feature to this year’s event was the location.  The Cattlemen’s Association moved it from the Elks Lodge to Clover Hall on the Greene County Fairgrounds.

President Pat Fields describes his reaction to how well received the banquet was.

“This is the most people I’ve seen at the banquet since I’ve been coming.  As far as the total (amount raised) I can’t speak to that, I’d have to look at the past (documents).  But it’s right up there with the top we’ve ever raised and we’re very appreciative of that.”

The organization also awarded one scholarship for the 2014-15 school year to Abby Bravard.  Fields says they are planning on giving more scholarships in future years.

“Just trying to get more and more kids interested in cattle and livestock and agriculture (and) help them out with school expenses.  Whether you have a cow or not and you’re wanting to join the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and fill out an application, you’ll be eligible.  So any kid in town, country, city or wherever wants to get a chance for a scholarship, become a member, fill out an application and you have a chance of getting a scholarship from us.”

All proceeds from the banquet go towards projects that the local Cattlemen support throughout the year.