LARGE CROWD ENJOYS ANNUAL CHAMBER BANQUET – OUTSTANDING CITIZENS & BUSINESSES EARN AWARDS AND ADMIRATION

A near capacity crowd gathered Monday night in Hempstead Hall for the annual Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Banquet. It is the area’s opportunity to gather in fellowship while recognizing the organizations and individuals who bring our city to its best.

As guests arrived, they were served a delicious meal of chicken, potatoes, a vegetable medley and bread with delicious cheesecake for dessert. All were expertly prepared by local caterers from Sheba’s Restaurant with Sheba and Milco Smith on hand for the event.

The evening began with the presentation of our Nation’s colors followed by a moving duet rendition of the National Anthem performed by musicians Bitsy Carter and Arnetta Bradford.

The featured guest speaker this year was former Arkansas Razorback great David Bazzel, who brought an inspiring message of building on the talent and human assets found in our city and surrounding area.

The first of the 2023 awards came with the Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award that went posthumously to Dr. Roy Turner of Hope Public Schools (Beryl Henry). His impact on the many students and people he came in contact with was felt far and wide. In a moving award presentation, he also became an inductee into the Education Hall of Fame. Many members of the Turner family were present to receive the award.

The Nonprofit of the Year was awarded to Hope Connexion Outreach, an outstanding group which provides so many services to our city such as an outreach center, a clothing closet, Blessin’ Boxes and much more.

The Business of the Year award went to Steve Lance and the staff at Lance & Associates Real Estate. A most humble and emotional Steve accepted the award, and he gave sincere thanks to his entire staff who gathered along the far wall of Hempstead Hall to witness the event.

The Educator of the Year for 2023 is Mrs. Karen Townsend of Yerger Middle School. Townsend heads up the Special Education classes and students at Yerger. She’s known for going above and beyond for the school and her charges, who depend upon her and her assistants daily.

The Citizen of the Year went to Sharon Caldwell of Tailgaters Burger Company. Known for their delicious home-style grilled burgers and hand cut French fries. Caldwell is known for her many roles in the management of the activities and services events in the downtown area.

Lastly, Hope High School Senior Anthony Hall was also recognized as the Young Leadership recipient for his academic and outside activities.

Lastly, the motto of the upcoming Watermelon Festival was revealed and will be “It’s a Seed-Spittin’ Good Time” and the entertainment for the Watermelon Festival concert will be Country/Rock legends the Marshall Tucker Band.