Chamber hosts banquet, dinner meeting

This year's theme of "Hats Off to Piggott" made for some festive décor at the annual Chamber of Commerce banquet and dinner meeting. (Times photo/Tim Blair) [Click to enlarge]

"Hats off to Piggott" was the theme for the 2008 Piggott Area Chamber of Commerce banquet and dinner meeting. The event, which was held last Tuesday, Oct.21, at the Piggott Community Center, drew a good crowd, many of whom wore their own special hats in honor of the occasion.

Piggott Mayor Gerald Morris opened the meeting with a word of welcome and then turned the proceedings over to this year's chamber president, Wanda Morris. Following her brief welcome, Jerry Morgan offered the invocation. Featured entertainers were introduced as the crowd enjoyed an excellent meal.

Providing the entertainment this year were "The Sons of the Western Bootheel," a group from Kennett which specializes in a unique brand of cowboy music. The quartet, which includes a banker, a teacher, a farmer and a veterinarian, performed several selections of traditional cowboy music along with a variety of classics with a cowboy theme.

While those in attendance enjoyed the music and the catered meal, they also had a chance to view the 25 tables decorated in the "Hats Off to Piggott" theme and check out items in the annual silent auction.

Following the meal, Mayor Morris and Clay County Judge Gary Howell introduced several dignitaries on hand for the occasion. Wanda Morris then was aided by chamber secretary Sharon Bellers in giving special recognition to many.

Bronze corporate members Aerial Bouquets, Gregory Insurance Agency, Hoggard and Son's Funeral Home and Piggott Auto and Farm Supply were first recognized. The chamber also recognized silver corporate members ISA Internet, Kennett National Bank, L.A. Darling Company, NewWave Communications, Wise Company and Piggott State Bank.

The chamber also gave certificates of recognition to last year's chamber president, Rhonda Harlan, and to past president Lloyd Russell, who served in that capacity from 1955-57. Russell also was one of the organizing members of the local chamber during that time.

The Piggott Times and Times news manager Tim Blair were recognized for contributions to the chamber and its efforts, and Bellers received a special "Flower Buddy Boss Lady" certificate for her work with the flower pot project in the downtown area.

At the conclusion of the event the table award winners were announced. The award for "Best Portrayal of Theme" and the "People's Choice" award both went to Sugar Creek Antiques and were accepted by owner Nancy Hardcastle. Third place went to Piggott Public Schools and was accepted by Superintendent Ed Winberry, while second place went to Irby Funeral Home, accepted by Belinda Graddy.

The first place honors in the table decorating contest went to the Downtown Inn, and owner George Forrest was on hand to accept the honor.

The event also served as the annual business meeting for chamber members, and an update was given by Morris on the organization's many projects and efforts.