Missouri Lt. Gov. David Wasinger Visits Revived Dairy Bar

Missouri’s Lieutenant Governor, David Wasinger, visited The Dairy Bar in Fredericktown on March 15, 2024, as part of his trip to Cape Girardeau for an elder abuse forum. The Dairy Bar, a beloved local establishment, has recently been revitalized by owners Jim and Mary Spiker, who reopened it in 2023 after its previous closure.

During his visit, Wasinger enjoyed the newly installed shaded overhang, a feature designed to enhance the customer experience. The Spikers provided him with a tour of the facility, where guests sampled their signature smash burgers and vibrant, dairy-free Dole whip ice cream. The event drew positive remarks from Tessa Rhekop, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, who emphasized the significance of local businesses in supporting community economies.

“Local businesses, where sales tax revenue returns to the community, are invaluable for small towns,” Rhekop stated. “Having places like this where residents can gather and support local entrepreneurs is essential.” She noted the community’s sadness upon the original Dairy Bar’s closure and expressed gratitude for the Spikers’ commitment to reviving such an important institution.

The Spikers purchased The Dairy Bar after it had closed a few years prior, and they have since upgraded the drive-thru and created a welcoming outdoor eating area. Wasinger shared his own experiences working in small-town establishments, recalling his time at Hardy’s and his wife’s involvement in local government. His visit to The Dairy Bar served as a reminder of the importance of community engagement, which he aimed to highlight at the upcoming forum.

The discussion also touched on the sensitive issue of elder abuse. Rick Polete, an alderman from Fredericktown, spoke with Wasinger about the challenges of identifying such cases, sharing insights from his background in banking. He explained that while it is difficult to prove instances of elder abuse, there are subtle signs that can indicate something is amiss, such as family members pressuring an elderly individual to make financial decisions.

A local resident, who reminisced about his own experiences with community governance, underscored the value of participation in local councils. He humorously recounted how, as a farmer in Cedar Hill, he once conducted court proceedings in his dining room due to the need for judicial services in the village.

Accompanying Wasinger was his Director of Policy and Communications, Chris Walker, who shared a personal connection to The Dairy Bar, noting that his wife, Anna Littrell, is the granddaughter of the Spikers. Walker mentioned that stopping at The Dairy Bar was a brief detour on their journey.

Wasinger also promoted the “Buy Missouri” initiative, encouraging residents to support local products. “We’re trying to get the most out of the counties,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of local commerce.

Before concluding his visit, Wasinger took a moment to thank the Spikers, Alderman Polete, and other attendees. “It doesn’t get more Missouri than this,” he declared, expressing his appreciation for the community’s dedication to supporting local businesses and fostering a strong local economy.