Neither high winds, pouring rain, nor flash flood warnings could stop the dedication ceremony held Friday for Audrain County's own native son. Some 70 or more friends, neighbors, city and county officials – many drenching wet from the storm – gathered to honor Sen. Kit Bond with the unveiling of a bronze bust.
The statue, created by Missouri sculptor Sabra Tull Meyer, was presented as a gift from the citizens of Mexico for the "exceptional service" Bond has paid to the people of Missouri. Displayed before the front entrance of the Audrain County Historical Society Museum, beyond a path of purple irises, the concrete-based pedestal is etched with both Bond's full and nickname, and the dates of his public service as both governor and U.S. senator.
Hats off to the sculptor for the notable likenesses between the man and the bust – shiny cheeks, knobby chin, frown lines and all. Who would believe all she had was a photograph to work with?
Opening the ceremony, Bond's longtime friend Col. Charles Stribling III used words including "distinguished," "legendary" and "fiercely loyal" while noting the myriad contributions the senator has made to both his hometown and state.
"Through his actions and influences, Mexico and Audrain have been favored with the Advanced Technology Center, a four-lane Highway 54 to Kingdom City, two bio-fuel plants, Mexico Memorial Airport improvements, the new plant science center, and much more," Stribling marveled, while other distinguished guests spoke of Bond's character in their toasts.
Mayor Virginia Robertson referred to Bond as a "man of many talents," and showed her gratitude with two simple words. "Thank you" she said, "for the past, the present and the future."
During the social held before the unveiling, many of Bond's longtime supporters shook his hand, recalled fond memories, and one even presented him with a gift – and glimpse – of years gone by.
"I found it in a drawer," Joyce Duckworth said as she held up a full-page photograph of Bond that was printed in The Mexico Ledger more than 30 years ago, when he first entered the political arena in 1974. "And, I would like to give it to you." Her husband Charles and Sen. Bond, she said, were elementary school classmates.
Audrain County Commissioner Tom Groves recalled memories working as a bag boy at Smiley's IGA, and watching Bond on television, after his election as governor. "I remember how proud I was to know him," Groves said.
"Someone from Mexico, Mo. A hometown boy. It was a great feeling."
 Now, joining the ranks of his grandfather A.P. Green, Bond too, has his place in the museum. While most people only receive such an honor posthumously, Bond said he is "grateful" to witness his tribute.
In his acceptance speech the senator made light of his age saying "When I started out I was part of the kiddy core, now I'm part of the history category." And everyone laughed. Then on a more serious note he added, "Quite a few people were there when we started out, and many are still here today.
"Though I feel I've attended my own services, heard the eulogy and said my own epitaph, I am honored to be recognized by the citizens of the community, and feel that I am truly blessed."
Friday's dedication was the brainchild of a group of local citizens – called the Committee to Honor Christopher S. "Kit" Bond – who three years ago began thinking of more permanent and significant ways to recognize Bond. The Mexico Area Chamber Board has since officially authorized the volunteer group as a sub-division of the Chamber and a "Chamber Restoration Fund" account designated for Bond recognition has been formed.
Committee members include: Dan Erdel, Carol Gallaher, Joe May, Bruce Oliver, Barbara Pickering, Charles Stribling, Larry Webber and former chamber director Sue Caine. A total of $8,900 was solicited in private funding for the purpose of Friday's unveiling.