By Rita Howell
A professionally produced video promoting Panola County was shown in a debut presentation at the Panola Partnership’s fifteenth annual meeting and dinner at the the 211 Main Hall in Como last Thursday evening.

The banquet hall was filled to capacity with members and guests of the Partnership, Panola County’s chamber of commerce and industrial recruiting agency.

The short video begins with black and white images of Como-area blues musicians and continues in colorful progression to show vignettes of industry, business, homes, churches and recreational areas. The film touts the county’s location, proximity to Memphis and “shovel ready” properties at the new indistrial park.

The video was shown in conjunction with remarks by Partnership CEO Sonny Simmons, who reported that 1,000 new jobs have been added in the county in the past year.

Awards

Each year at the annual banquet, the Partnership recognizes individuals and businesses for outstanding contributions to the community.

The James Hal Moore Excellence in Education Award went to Kaye Smythe, retired math teacher from South Panola High School. Smythe had been serving as activities director at the school when she retired last spring, but was called back to work part-time in that capacity this year.

The Partnership presented its Citizenship Award to Mary Troxler, honored for her volunteer work in the community.

Designated as the Small Business of the Year was Batesville Dental Clinic, a practice owned by Dr. Andy Garrott. The dentist was recognized not only for the operation of a successful small business, but also for his mission work in Honduras.

The Large Business of the Year Award went to Tri-Lakes Medical Center. The award was accepted by Dr. Mike Havens, Chief Medical Officer for the hospital.

The Panola Partnership Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Glenda Bailey. The Ambassadors are volunteers who represent the Partnership at functions throughout the year. Bailey was cited for her dedicated service.

Miss Hospitality

Emily Bright was crowned 2011 Miss Hospitality. A student at Delta State University, she is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Bright. Emily represented the Rotary Club. 2010 Miss Hospitality Karlee Darby crowned her successor.

Contestants from this year’s competition had undergone a judges’ interview process  earlier, but the results had been kept secret until the banquet.

Chandler Llana, representing the Batesville Civitan Club, was named first alternate and Morgan Lawrence, nominated by the Batesville Garden Club, was selected second alternate. Other contestants were Marlee Goforth, representing the Junior Auxiliary; Emily Ridge, nominated by the Batesville Woman’s Club; and Chelsea Ratcliff, nominee of the Junior Women’s League.

After entertainment by mentalist Joe Turner, Partnership president Dennis Dye turned the gavel over to incoming president William Pride.

(See additional photos on page A16.)