An abbreviated Henryetta Chamber of Commerce annual dinner went on Thursday night despite a change of location and deluge of rain.
Originally set at the golf course, the dinner was moved to The Briefcase on Main Street. About midway into the program, a strong storm rolled through town flooding the streets and even dropping small hail.
The evening saw special tributes to the late executive director Roy Madden and First Lady of Rodeo Sharon Shoulders.
An emotional Lyle Stogner pointed out Madden had the growth of the chamber and putting Henryetta, “on the map,” as his priorities. He went on to list the programs and events put in place by the retired military man including the Dee Boon Days, Cowboy Ball, addition of the spring roundup rodeo, Christmas parade and Cruise Knight.
He said Madden started the “Top Hand Award” as a way of recognizing people who have contributed to the chamber. This year that award went to Roy Madden and was accepted by his wife Lisa.
A second Top Hand Award was presented to the family of Sharon Shoulders.
In presenting the award, Tammy Hiatt pointed out Sharon Shoulders was active in all aspects of rodeo including helping found the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. Known as the First Lady of Rodeo, her name has been included in an annual award from the PBR recognizing the work of the wives of professional bull riders.
“She has always been a huge supporter of our chamber and rodeo,” Hiatt said. “Our goal is to continue to make her proud.”
The chamber Trailblazer Award went to Melissa Smith and Mel’s Country Market. “She started her business in the middle of a pandemic,” emcee Jeremy Roberts pointed out.
Honored for their work in the community and working with veterans, Kim and Mark Collins received the chamber’s Community Patriot Award.
During the evening, Roberts told chamber members and guests the people of Henryetta are the positive things about the community.
He pointed out businesses in town have persevered throughout the challenges of 2020 and the people have made it successful. “We are resilient as Oklahomans, as Henryettans.”
“The community is not just buildings or people moving to town. It is us,” he said.
He challenged everyone to pick up the best from everyone around them and build on that.
Outgoing president Stacey Blanchett and directors Ashley Morris, Jason Lilly and Mark Hiatt received awards marking the end of their terms in office.
