Well, the ‘big event’ is over for yet another year. The trophies have been handed out, the decorations have come down and the winners are winding down their celebrations. No, I’m not referring to the big Super Bowl game or congratulating the Steelers on their win but I’m referring to a much more important event – the 90th Annual Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce’s Banquet.

The banquet, held this past Monday night, was a wonderful event for all who attended. We had a large turnout of guests; almost 225 people attended the event to take part in the silent auction and reception, to listen to our speaker, and to celebrate with the award winners.

The silent auction, which is used as a fundraiser for the Chamber, had over 150 items this year thanks to the generosity of our local merchants. We are always able to provide a wide variety of items for our guests to bid on and this year was no different. We had baseball caps, gift certificates, goody baskets, cameras and even an I-pod. Thanks go to all those who participated in the auction.

Our speaker for the event was Dr. Lester Crawford. As former Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration he was able to give an interesting insight on this organization and he had everyone laughing as he shared some of his experiences and adventures on his personal road to success. We appreciate him taking the time to return ‘home’ to be with us.

The highlight of the night for many is the awards presentation. This is a time for the Chamber to recognize individuals and businesses who have gone above and beyond the call of duty as good neighbors and good citizens. Congratulations go to all of the well-deserving recipients this year including the Community Volunteer of the Year, Kayte Melton; the Chamber Volunteer of the Year, Jim Parr; the Business Volunteer of the Year, Collins Communications; the Citizen of the Year, Burnquetta Johnson; the Business of the Year, Foster Farms; and the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Claude Neilson. To all of the winners; congratulations and thank you!

P.S.

I’d like to extend my gratitude to all those who helped make the evening possible. Thanks go to Kirk Brooker for helping with advertisements, Lindsy Gardner for helping with the PowerPoint, the Key Club for setting up, the InterAct Club for serving, the Chamber Board members for their assistance and Pat Brady for everything. Also, thanks to all the businesses who donated items for the Silent Auction. Your kindness is beyond compare!