Meadowlark will host Gary LaGrange as he speaks on a variety of topics at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, in the Event Center. Gary is retired U.S. Army Colonel who served three tours of duty in combat in Vietnam. He commander Fort Riley and retired just after the first war in Iraq. Gary’s local endeavors include Golden Prairie Honey Farms and the SAVE Farm.

The concept for the SAVE Farm  began nearly a decade ago, when Gary and his daughter saw results from training beekeeping and providing therapy to soldiers at nearby Ft. Riley. A non profit was formed by a diverse group of veterans, farm and ranch experts and educators.  

With the help of organizations like The Nature Conservancy, and the Conservation Fund, the SAVE Farm is now a reality. It provides therapy as needed and hands-on teaching to veterans and transitioning servicemembers through experienced professionals. They learn how to successfully and sustainably manage cropland, livestock animals, orchards, horticulture, and beekeeping.