Gerster retires after 20 years as northern county commissioner

Not one but two cakes -- one vanilla, one chocolate -- are waiting to be cut by Neal Gerster at his retirement reception, Wednesday at the courthouse. As the cakes say, "20 years serving Vernon County" and "Happy Retirement, Neal." (Photo by Johannes Brann/Daily Mail)

Above: At his retirement reception, Wednesday at the courthouse, Neal Gerster, outgoing northern district commissioner, is presented a copy of a Missouri House of Representatives resolution introduced by district 126 Rep. Patricia Pike. Family, friends and colleagues were on hand to present tributes and gifts as they enjoyed cake, punch and shared, as the resolution says, "our most hearty congratulations to Neal Gerster for 20 wonderful years of service and in further wishing him continued success in all future endeavors." (Photo by Johannes Brann/Daily Mail)