From the KMIL News Room

65th Annual Cameron Chamber Banquet Honors Top Members & Community Involvement.

     Some 300 people were on hand Thursday night for the Cameron Chamber of Commerce banquet highlighted by awards presentations and the entertainment of syndicated radio show host Tumbleweed Smith.  Outgoing President Ken Harriss presented the Outstanding Chamber Member award to Jim Bailey and Ronnie Kincaid, recognized for their efforts in the 1st Annual Christmas Classic Basketball Tournament.  Given the Outstanding Community Involvement Award was Bea's Kitchen.  Also recognized was Office Manager Faye Franklin for her devotion and work in 1998.   Harriss was also awarded a plaque by new Chamber President John Eggar, in appreciation of his leadership in 1998. 

     Harriss reviewed Chamber sponsored events held in 1998, including Festival Cameron, The Summer Farmer's Market, the Annual Arts and Crafts and Fun Run in October.  In November, the Chamber presented six awards to outstanding 4-H students.  And in December, the Chamber sponsored the annual parade, home decoration contest, Toys For Kids drive, and the 1st Annual Christmas Classic Basketball Tournament. (Harriss statement)  During the year the Chamber added 18 new members and held 7 ribbon cuttings for new businesses.  Harriss also recognized the two retiring directors, Al Dobos and Harrison Lanham.

     New President John Eggar of EBCO Development of Cameron talked of taking the Chamber to the next level, challenging new personal growth, and "insisting that Cameron be a center of excellence". (Eggar Statement)    Eggar also introduced 1999 officers and directors.  Officers are Janet Sheguit, First Vice President.  Donald Shuffield, Second Vice President.   Ken Harriss, Past President.  And   Directors are David Angell, Jeannine Dohnalik, Larry Hauk, Carolyn Hux, Teri Keratsopoulos, Ronnie Kincaid, Ed Magre, Jeanie Orsag, and Melanie Shuffield.  Retiring Directors are Al Dobos and Harrison Lanham. 

     Guest speaker Tumbleweed Smith entertained the crowd with Texas Folklore from his syndicated radio program that began some 30 years ago.  Through the years Smith has journeyed across Texas recording unusual and entertaining individuals including several right here in Cameron like Greer Condray and Gene and Silas.   Smith also touched on Cameron and Milam County, it's natural resources, historic past,  and namesake.  (Smith statement)

     Master of Ceremonies Thursday night was Cameron Mayor James Lafferty.  Jerry and Agnes Kostroun catered the meal.  And Bernadette Jochec provided the dinner music.

Jim Bailey and Ronnie Kincaid Receive Outstanding Chamber Member Award.

Mike Zajicek and Renae Mueck accept award on behalf of Bea's Kitchen

Incoming President John Eggar (right) presents appreciation award to Outgoing President Ken Harriss