There were several “celebrities” on hand to entertain at the annual Henryetta chamber of commerce banquet Saturday night.
With palm trees and a peaceful south seas shore lining the wall, the over 150 chamber members and guests celebrated 12 months of accomplishments and recognized individuals and groups for their efforts.
Doug and Nancy Wadley received the Trailblazer award for their efforts launching Shoney’s Restaurant. Emcee Jeremy Roberts called it a, “great asset to our community.”
The Youth Development award went to the newly-formed FFA chapter at Henryetta high school. “This is a new program in our community. They have helped with downtown cleanup and have already won numerous state awards,” Roberts pointed out.
Another organization receiving recognition was the Nichols Park Restoration Project. Members Vernon Britt and Eddy Thomas along with representatives from the city of Henryetta received the Community Enhancement award. “This is a great treasure and a lot of people have put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into it,” he said.
One of the oldest civic clubs, the Henryetta Lions club also received the Community Enhancement award. “They have a large active membership, and are one heck of a group for the city.” The club was recognized for work at McCutcheon Park as well as the Christmas basket program, and gift bags to the nursing homes. One of the members, Ron McAfee, was singled out for his involvement for over 50 years with the club.
The final honor of the night, Henryettan of the Year, went to Eddy Sires Thomas. She was honored for, “her individual passion for the town and her dedication to its improvement.” That effort included repeal of the 40-year-old ordinance prohibiting dancing, ringing the bell for donations to the Salvation Army, helping with the Lions lLub Christmas basket program, and numerous murals painted in schools and on railway underpasses.
“This is a great honor, Thomas said. “I love doing what I do. It is a pleasure for me and helps beautify Henryetta.”
During the evening, Roberts pointed out the chamber has had a number of activities that has promoted the town. He recognized the committee chairpersons for their efforts from Cruise Knight to Living Legends rodeo, Christmas parade and Chamber Ambassadors.
He went on to encourage everyone to get involved. “If you see something in the community that needs to be done, help out.”
Entertainment for the evening included voiceover skits by Donnie Smith as Willie Nelson, Lyle Stogner as John Denver, Tammie and Mark Hiatt as Sonny and Cher and Billie Been as Elvis.
Photos from the evening's events:
