By Jan White
[email protected]
CROCKETT – The Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce definitely found its “groove” last night, as members packed the Civic Center on Tuesday, March 21, to celebrate another year of growth and success.
The theme of the membership awards banquet was “Get Your Groove On.” Event organizers set the mood by playing top hit tunes from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Clips from iconic tv shows from the era streamed on the media screens while teen volunteers dressed in 60s and 70s garb handed out daisies and flashed peace signs to attendees.
The evening meal was catered by Chamber member Margaret Broughton, who served a dinner of chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans and a salad.
During the evening, awards were given to outstanding members and groups who distinguished themselves throughout the year. The Volunteer of the Year went to Ricky Yrias; Citizen of the Year was Robin Ogg; Non-Profit of the Year went to Piney Woods Lions Club, and Business of the Year was awarded to Bella Gifts From the Heart.
The Chamber also recognized several businesses as its “Rising Stars.” Bear Hall, Easy Pickens Resale, Filthy Gringos/FG Metalwork, Heavenly Esthetics, Mustard Seed Soap Co., Old Crockett Wine Emporium, Stesti Beer Garden, and Texas Family Doctor was awarded the honor.
One of the highlights of the evening was the “Scholarship Dessert Dash.” The Dessert Dash is a fundraiser that helps provide money for annual scholarships presented to qualifying Seniors. Each table submits a bid, and starting with the highest bidder to the lowest, diners can choose one of the desserts donated for the event. One person from the table is selected to ‘dash’ for their favorite dessert and stake their claim.
Another fan favorite is the auction of a specialty cake baked by Houston County Judge Jim Lovell. Although absent in person for the event, State Representative Trent Ashby won the cake through his authorized representative, Linda Parker, who made the winning bid of $1,000. During the live auction portion of the event, Lovell was also pegged to make several more cakes in order to entice buyers to increase their bids on some of the auction items. Ansel Bradshaw, the emcee of the live auction, did his best to rouse bidders to spend as much money as possible to raise funds for the organization.
Kudos to Chamber Executive Director Liza Clark and her board of directors: Karl Balmer; Greg Beaver; Julie Lehr; Carole Martin; Carey Minter; Margaret Broughton; Ron Forehand; Leanne Henson; Chris Ramirez; Greg Ritchie; Keshia Thomas and Tiffany Wiggins Blackmon for hosting this year’s membership award banquet.
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