Annual Neosho watermelon feed gives you a chance to hear from candidates
What do you think?
The Newton County Republican Central Committee will host its annual free watermelon feed next week, combining a summertime community gathering with an opportunity for voters to hear directly from candidates and learn about issues on the upcoming primary election ballot.
The event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, at Big Spring Park in Neosho.
Organizers will provide free watermelon and bottled water, while attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
In addition to refreshments, the event will feature brief remarks from candidates running in contested Republican primary races. Each candidate will be limited to a three-minute presentation before attendees have the opportunity to speak with them individually following the program.
Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick and Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway are also scheduled to address the crowd. Hanaway is not on the ballot this year.
Organizers said sample ballots will be available so voters can follow along as candidates speak and familiarize themselves with the offices and issues they will see at the polls. Presentations will also explain the four statewide constitutional amendments appearing on Missouri ballots.
Newton County Republican Central Committee Chairman Nick Myers said the goal of the event is to help voters make informed decisions before casting their ballots.
Myers noted that while the event is hosted by the county Republican organization, it is open to anyone interested in learning more about the election.
Because the statewide constitutional amendments and some legislative races extend beyond Newton County, residents from neighboring counties are also encouraged to attend.
The program is expected to conclude around 7:30 p.m., after which attendees will have another opportunity to meet candidates and ask questions. Organizers also plan to hold prize drawings at the conclusion of the event.
Missouri's primary election is scheduled for Aug. 4. Early no-excuse absentee voting is already underway.
