The Magee Chamber of Commerce hosted the 64th annual banquet last Thursday at the Magee First Baptist Church Family Life Center.
Former Mayor Jimmy Clyde opened the ceremony with the playing of the national anthem, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Dinner was served by the Simpson County Future Leaders and the Magee Mayor’s Youth Council.
After dinner Mayor Dale Berry spoke briefly of the progress that has been made by the city, highlighting the revitalization of Main Street and the rapid sales tax growth that the city has experienced. Berry also announced the improvements of the Magee Fire Department, which has a class five rating. Berry said, “Magee is a good place to do business. We’re growing, and I want to thank you business people.”
The banquet featured a table decorating contest which was won by Prince CPA. The scheduled keynote speaker, Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann, canceled his appearance. Chamber President Lacye Evans explained that Hosemann was busy working with other state officials on plans to combat the coronavirus.
The STAR student for Simpson County Academy, Emily Davis, was announced by Skip Russell. Davis of SCA scored a 34 on her ACT and chose Amy McWilliams as her STAR Teacher. Neither was able to attend the banquet. Patrice Boykin introduced the Magee High School STAR Student Emily Reed, who chose band director Amanda Sumrall as her STAR Teacher.
Julian Harper presented Reverend Ralph Walker with the Spirit of Magee Award. Harper described Walker as a “dedicated member of the community that personified the spirit of Magee.”
Alfred and Kim Pace were awarded the Outstanding Citizen Award for their work with the local food pantry. The Paces, along with others, work to help families in need throughout the community.
Alfred Pace said, “It’s an honor that goes beyond recognition. It’s not what you do, but what’s in your heart while you do it, and from the bottom of my heart we thank you.”
Hall of Fame inductees were announced as Charlie Bob Prince and Diane McPhail. Brett Duncan introduced Prince, saying that he exemplified what it meant to be a true man of God who values his family and unselfishly gives of himself without the need for recognition. Prince said that hewas honored to receive the recognition, adding, “I am humble and grateful. I’ve never entertained the thought of living and working anywhere else besides Magee.” He spoke lovingly of his family, coworkers, and his wife Judy. He shared a story about being at a conference. Before it closed, Prince said he was asked where he was from. He replied Magee, and was asked if he had lived here his entire life. Prince said, “I looked at him proudly smiled and said not yet.”
Diane McPhail was there was introduced by Sue Honea. Honea said McPhail saw the entire town as her family and it showed through her actions. McPhail echoed Honea’s remarks, saying, “Everyone here is my family, and I love each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart.” McPhail was surprised by her family who all came out to celebrate her honor. McPhail closed by saying, “Magee is a happy place to be, it’s home and where I want to be till the lard takes me.”
The Business of the Year award was given to Peoples and Priority One Bank for their continued support of the community. Julian Harper was named the new president of the Magee Chamber of Commerce after Lacye Evans officially passed the gavel. Harper gave brief remarks before adjourning the meeting. He spoke of continuing to grow the Chamber of Commerce. He said, “We’re looking ahead to more growth which means a lot more members, more businesses, and more ribbon cuttings.”
