Capacity Crowd Enjoys Annual Hope/Hempstead County Chamber Banquet and Annual Meeting
Hempstead Hall was the perfect venue for the large crowd in attendance for the annual Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Banquet. The event provides the opportunity to gather as a community and shine the light on area organizations, businesses, and individuals who represent the best of our city and county.
As guests arrived and were seated, they enjoyed a delicious, smothered chicken meal provided by Sheba’s Family Restaurant. The chicken was paired with baked potato halves and a mixed vegetable medley. The delicious strawberry shortcake with complimentary sauce strawberries on top provided the perfect dessert. Both owners, Sheba and Milco, were on hand for the event and made sure everyone was satisfied.
Musician Jeff Smith and the Green Patinas provided delightful background music throughout the evening and even paired with vocalist and Hope businesswoman Arnetta Bradford to close the program with Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’”
The evening began with the presentation of our nation’s colors by Scout Troop 5, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem performed by Arnetta Bradford.
The featured guest speaker was Randy Zook, a leader in the State Chamber/AIA and former deputy director of administration and finance for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. He also spent 34 years with Atlantic Envelope Company, a $250-million manufacturer of custom-printed envelopes and business products, serving as President and CEO from 1989 to 2004. He delivered a message of promising figures for the Natural State which leads the nation in GDP growth, total annual cost savings as a recent result of income, and corporate tax reform. Ultimately, Arkansas has lowered taxes which has led to faster economic growth, resulting in higher tax revenue for the state.
The Young Leadership Award went to Haley Rae Bane, a young businesswoman of “HR Sweets” who has blazed a trail of her own locally as a kitchen expert while baking delicious goodies, which raises money that she uses to support missionaries.
The Nonprofit of the Year was awarded to the Hope Evening Lions Club whose efforts include supporting the community and tirelessly meeting the needs of many. From helping local families, assisting in community events, or providing resources to those in need. The group was specifically recognized for their provision of weekly food essentials for many in the area.
The Business of the Year went to Main Street Cleaners and in memory of longtime businessman and friend Larry Moses. They were recognized for their reliable service and most of all, their friendships created throughout the community.
The Educator of the Year was awarded to Virginia Moore, a longtime instructor and favorite of many. She was surrounded at the banquet by friends and many supporters. Moore was recognized as “not just a teacher but as a guiding light. Someone who doesn’t just teach, but inspires.”
The Citizens of the Year were Ben and Jamie Pafford, who recently made critical decisions to acquire the former Wadley Regional Medical Center and open the new Southwest Arkansas Regional Medical Center. Presented by 2024 Citizen of the Year Jimmy Courtney, he recognized them as a duo that has “worked side-by-side for three decades, making a lasting impact on Hope and Hempstead County”. The pair thanked those in attendance and promised with God’s help, the residents of our area will be guaranteed quality healthcare and service for years to come.
Lastly, the entertainment for the Watermelon Festival this summer was revealed to be Classic Rock lead singers Jason Scheff from Chicago and Tommy DeCarlo, formerly of the rock group Boston. Fans of the two bands will certainly enjoy the talented duo as they sing many of their favorite hits old and new.
