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Tuesday evening, March 22, 2016, the Magee Chamber of Commerce Banquet was held at the FBC Family Life Center. The room was filled with good food…good folks…and good times.
Magee’s Miss Hospitality Taylor White welcomed everyone and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Whitney Baker, outgoing president, reflected on her year of service and recognized the outgoing board members.
Mayor Jimmy Clyde remarked that “Magee has 289 businesses.” He thanked the members of the Chamber for the support given to the city.
Miss Mississippi Hannah Roberts was the entertainment for the evening. Hannah spoke of the positive sides of “pageantry!” She told how the scholarships she has earned have paid and are paying for her education. Hannah will be entering Medical School at UMC upon completion of her reign. In the words of Pat Runnels, Hannah’s talents truly touch the strings of your heart. Hannah is a trained violinist. She has already traveled over 36,000 miles…and speaks almost seven days a week.
Simpson Academy Star Student, Jacob Berry and Teacher, Amy McWilliams were recognized. Magee High School Star teacher and student were unable to attend.
Oliver McLean and Ted Allen were presented plaques upon their induction into the Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame.
The Spirit of Magee was announced…and Paul A. (Awesome!) Arnold was selected for this honor. Paul had no idea he had been chosen. Kay got him to the banquet under the pretense that she was being given an award! Paul was totally shocked! Most of his family was in attendance. Congratulations, Paul…he’s always had spirit!
Gloria Lucas was chosen Outstanding Citizen….another great choice. Gloria owner of the McAlpin House has been so gracious in hosting fundraisers at her home. Where there is a need, Gloria is there. Probably one of the most talented ladies in Magee, Gloria has and is always willing to lend a helping hand. She is hosting “Tea in the Gardens” at her home Friday, March 25th for a Chamber fundraiser. Gloria is a past president of the Chamber as well as board member. Congratulations Gloria, you are truly outstanding in all that you do.
At the close of the meeting, outgoing President Whitney Baker presented the gavel to incoming President Chris Purdum. Chris performed his first official act by adjuring the meeting!
Special thanks to the members of Leadership Simpson County. These young people did an awesome job setting and cleaning the tables. I was so proud of these students…their manners are to be commended.
The gumbo and jambalaya was delicious…I saw BJ Smith, Bob Everett, James Smith, Jane Everett, Susan Smith, Mike Berry and Mark McArthur handling kitchen duty. These folks can cook. I probably missed someone…but the cooks almost stole the show.
Another Chamber Banquet has come and gone…as we move forward into 2016 consider joining the Chamber. One does not have to own a business…there are individual memberships available. As a city we need to band together and continue to move Magee forward…as a Chamber we need to lead the way.
Thank you to the Board members who worked tirelessly in “pulling” off the banquet…you did good!
