Chamber presents annual awards
The Holdenville Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture presented their annual community awards during their monthly general meeting on Thursday, August 20. These awards are normally presented during the Chamber Banquet. However, this large event was cancelled this year due to concerns about the COVID 19 virus.
Chamber President Tonya Weaver announced this year’s winners and gave a brief overview of why the recipients were chosen before presenting them with a plaque.
ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR – This award was presented to the Holdenville Business Women. Weaver explained that this organization does a lot for the community, including promoting childhood cancer awareness, provide children with goody baskets, maintain a free children’s shoe and clothing closet, organizing and sponsoring the annual Fall Festival Parade. They provide Christmas gifts for over 40 children each year, host the annual Senior Tea, and provide gifts and cookies for the nursing home residents on Valentine’s Day. They also provide scholarships to graduating seniors and recently started a back-pack program for school kids.
Weaver commented that they are a great organization and the community is fortunate to have them.
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – This award was presented to Hemingway’s Social Club and Neighborhood Bar. Weaver stated the owners have lived in Holdenville for a number of years and saw the need for a nice place where people could relax and enjoy themselves. They purchased the old Elks Lodge and began remodeling, and have now been open for over a year. Last year they sponsored a cornhole tournament and auction, with all proceeds going towards the annual 4 th of July Firworks show at Holdenville Lake. They have also sponsored and organized a Poker Run for homeless veterans as well as fund raisers for Holdenville Schools. Hemingway’s is now serving delicious lunches and dinners. Weaver commented they serve some of the best food you will ever have, and Holdenville should feel lucky to have them in the community.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – This award was presented to Jeff Hinze. Weaver stated that Jeff has lived in Holdenville all of his life, and retired from the Holdenville Fire Department. Jeff plays a major role in keeping the Holdenville American Legion active, and, and helps place the American flags that are displayed throughout Holdenville on all major holidays. He also placed and maintains the flagpoles that display the American flags at the major entrances to Holdenville, keeping these areas mowed and looking good.
Weaver commented that Holdenville is lucky Jeff loves his community.
DALE TURNER FARM FAMILY OF THE YEAR – Weaver stated she is always happy to announce this award, which was conceived by former Chamber President Dale Turner. This year’s winners were the family of Ryan and Rachel Brown, who were unable to attend the event. Weaver stated that the Browns have lived in the Holdenville/Moss area most of their lives and have two children. The Browns operate a 155 head cattle ranch on 1,200 acres. Ryan also manages his father’ 1,000 acre cattle ranch.
PLATINUM SPONSORS – The Chamber recognized their platinum sponsors who, Weaver stressed, they are so happy to have every year. They never fail to help the Chamber, and that help is greatly appreciated. These sponsors are: First National Bank; First United Bank; Security State Bank; Boomerang Restaurant; Corterra Energy; Core Civic Davis Correctional Facility; Save a Lot grocery; and Carol Pryor in memory of Victor Pryor.
PAST DIRECTORS – The Chamber concluded with a recognition of past directors. Weaver stated these individuals have worked hard for years, helping with the car shows and other Chamber sponsored events, and they will be greatly missed. These directors were Elizabeth O’Malley, Jerrye Giles, and Andy Baca.
Before concluding the meeting, Jim Davis reminded the other Chamber members that they are still planning to host the Fall Car Show on October 3 “one way or another.” Hopefully they will be able to host this event on Main Street, but if not they have an alternative location. Davis reminded everyone that any promotional items the businesses have, such as pens, key chains, business cards, etc. are needed to fill the ditty bags all car show entrants receive. They will also once again be giving away door prizes throughout the day, and hope to keep things as normal as possible.
