By Rupert Howell

Tickets are still available for Thursday nights “Toasting” of retired Circuit Clerk Joe Reid which begins at 6 p.m. at Batesville’s National Guard Armory.

Former U. S. Attorney Jim Greenlee, retired Circuit Judge Andy Baker,  retired Assistant District Attorney Robert Kelly, Election Commission Chairman Ronald McMinn, and Memphis newsman Dennis Turner will all get to “shoot back” at Reid whose cutting quips are a trademark of his personality and livened the office of circuit clerk for the 20 years he served.

But Reid will get the last word as he will be allowed to respond to the toasters before the smoke clears.

Last year’s event “roasting” former football coach and high school coaching legend Willis Wright raised thousands of dollars for sponsoring organizations and thrilled all who attended the dinner/roast.
Social time begins at 6 p.m. with refreshments available before the evening meal at 6:30. Shortly after emcee George C. Carlson, voice of the South Panola Tigers, will begin introducing the evening’s toasters.

The event is an annual fundraiser for the Panola County Community Foundation, which supports local charitable causes with grants.

Tickets may be purchased at BancorpSouth, Pride Hyundai, First Security Bank, The Panolian, Panola Partership and The Southern Reporter. Tables are still available or tickets for $55 or $100 for couples.