Nearly 200 people came together Monday night to celebrate a year of improvement and activity by the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce.
The annual dinner at the civic center was punctuated by award presentations and videos showing what the community has to offer.
“It takes every piece to come together. Without a vision, communities can survive,” said chamber executive director Roy Madden.
That was echoed in the talk by outgoing chamber president Jeremy Roberts.
He urged everyone to, “take pride in our town. Lets spruce up our living areas.”
Roberts cited statistics from the U.S. Census that showed the town has a population of 5,765. He said 25.8 percent are under 18 while another 18.4 percent of the residents are over 65.
“This is where we are today. Where do we want to be?,” he asked. He pointed out a lot of people tend to say, “they need to do this or that,” then reminded those attending that, “they” are us. “It is up to us. We are Henryetta. There is a great community here.”
Roberts, who was named Henryettan of the Year during the dinner, said the town needs a united spirit. “The mindset needs to change from they to us.” He then challenged everyone to, “find one thing you are passionate about in this community. Several small things add up to one big thing. We are Henryetta.”
During the evening a number of awards celebrated the impact that people have on Henryetta.
A series of “Trailblazer” awards were presented to businesses that make a difference in the looks and additional retail opportunities in the town.
Those recipients included Rheba’s Flowers and Gifts, Taco Bueno, Rustler’s Barbecue, Stanley’s Get It Today, The Shack and Company, Rosie Lavon’s Marketplace and 75 Junction.
Other special awards celebrated individuals and organizations that marked community involvement for all ages. They included: Best New Event, Kyle Kiner for the Hometown Pride Weekend; Youth Development, Katie Thompson at McIntosh Tumbling for Youth Development; Special Achievement award to Eddy Thomas and Bill Goodner; Community Enhancement awards to Chrystal Springs retirement Village, Air Evac Lifeteam, City of Henryetta and Shane Stanford.
Lyle Stogner and Bruce Jones received the “Top Hand” awards for work with the chamber of commerce.
Outgoing chamber officers Lyle Stogner, Kyle Kiner, Stacey Blanchett and Staci Alsover were recognized for their contributions during 2016 and presented with plaques.
Roberts presented Madden with a pencil drawing depicting “True Grit” of his efforts at the chamber during the past year while battling some serious health issues.
Freelance editor Ashley Wolsencroft said Roberts was selected as the Henryettan of the Year because of his, “positive attitude.” She cited his involvement with the youth including purchasing “Knight flags for downtown and being the announcer at both football and basketball games. “He gives a good impression of the city,” she added.
Some of the activities and events in 2017:
More videos from the evening: