Chamber finishes parade, works on banquet
By Lori Mellinger editor@bullardnews.com

After it was all said and done, Bullard Chamber of Commerce members were pleased with the success and the turnout for this year's Christmas parade, held on Dec. 17.

"It was definitely a cooperative effort," said parade organizer and chamber member Sandy Ray. "Without some dedicated volunteers and help we couldn't have pulled it off successfully. "

And if success is measured by food consumed - then they hit the mark there, too.

"We passed out about 400 hot dogs," said member Chris Thompson, who, along with his wife Mary Beth, wrapped up the hot dogs donated by Brookshires and local manager Tony Johnson. Thompson and his wife own Snow Coney Island and the two pitched in with buns, cocoa and other treats at O.L. Ferrell Park. Member Sue Hornbuckle of Flowers By Sue contributed cookies and cocoa as well.

"Darline McKay and Sue helped us out tremendously," Ray said. McKay, who owns Remember When, helped with the after parade get together, while Chamber President Danny Ray held court as Santa for the children under the pavilion at O.L. Ferrell Park.

The parade - which had about 25 entries - ran the gamut from bands to churches to elected officials.

"Several people said the parade was great and already want to be in next year's," Ray said. "Everything just fell into place.

"Between Dot West, who answered the chamber phone and took entries and the people helping line up, it went smoothly."

Honors were handed out by judges on parade entries. First place went to the Bullard High School Band, second place was the City of Bullard, third place was First United Methodist Church's train and a special recognition went to Trails to Christ.

"We're just happy that the community enjoyed it," Ray said. "And we look forward to doing it again.

Meanwhile chamber members are working on the annual banquet.

"This is a time for the chamber to really showcase itself," said President Danny Ray. "And we want all the community to join us."

The annual banquet, set for 6 p.m. Jan.28, will be held at Eagle's Bluff Country Club. A committee is already at work - picking winners for the annual awards handed out by the organization.

Each year the chamber recognizes a Man of the Year, Woman of the Year, Chamber Member of the Year and Business of the Year.

Last year a new award was started.

The Cecil B. Harper Humanitarian award, named for the late Cecil Harper, goes to any person in the community who has made significant contributions to the welfare and benefit of Bullard.

Last year's award went to Hazel Mason, founder of FUMC's Mission House.

Tickets are on sale at the chamber office for $25. For more information, call the Bullard Chamber of Commerce at 903-894-4238.