Chamber of Commerce holds annual banquet

The mayor's table in seasonal finery at the annual Piggott Area Chamber of Commerce banquet last Tuesday evening. (Times photo/Tim Blair) [Click to enlarge]

The Piggott Community Center took on the sights and sounds of Christmas Tuesday, Oct. 20, as the Piggott Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet and business meeting.

With a theme of "An Old Fashioned Christmas," those taking part in the annual table decorating contest had the opportunity to bring out their holiday finery. Chamber president Tim Blair also got into the spirit of the season, serving as master of ceremonies and conducting the annual business meeting dressed as Santa Claus.

Following Blair's welcome to those on hand, Larry Holcomb offered the invocation and the crowd enjoyed the catered meal. Entertainment during the meal was provided by Emma Gookin, daughter of Gary and Lorre Gookin of Jonesboro and granddaughter of Piggott State Bank president Paula O. Blackwell.

Following the meal Blair introduced Piggott mayor Gerald Morris, who introduced several visiting dignitaries. Those on hand included Corning Mayor Wayne Phelan and his wife Connie and Paragould-Greene County Chamber of Commerce executive director Sue McGowan and her husband Tim.

Blair then gave the annual president's update as the business portion of the banquet was conducted. He told those in attendance the past year had been an interesting one for the chamber. "We took on operations of the annual car show, increased our hours at the visitor center thanks to help from the city and are looking forward to more progress in the coming year," Blair noted.

Blair, with help from past president Wanda Morris, then handed out the corporate bronze and silver membership certificates. Bronze corporate members include Arkansas Western Gas, Glen Sain Motors, Gregory Insurance Agency, Kennett National Bank, Piggott Community Hospital, Centurytel, Piggott Diner, Qualchoice Insurance, Aerial Bouquets and General Baptist Health Care.

The silver corporate members recognized were Piggott State Bank, L.A. Darling, ISA Internet and New Wave Communications.

Blair also took time to recognize the contributions of past president Morris, former chamber secretary Sharon Bellers and banquet co-chair Lottie Gookin for their efforts with a small token of appreciation to each.

In the table decorating contest third place went to L.A. Darling, second place was Sugar Creek Kids and first place went to Piggott State Bank. The award for best portrayal of theme went to New Wave Communications and the people's choice award went to the entry by Fry Equipment Company.

During the bidding for the silent auction those in attendance enjoyed sounds for the season by Patrick Patterson and the band. The auction, which included nearly 100 items, also was a big success this year and proved to be a profitable venture for the chamber.

Blair offered his thanks to everyone who made the event possible, especially Morris, Gookin and chamber secretary Lynette Cale.