Chamber’s Best Of The County Winners

Last month, local movers and shakers gathered at River Ranch Resort to recognize businesses that strive to serve the county during the Chamber of Commerce Business Banquet.

Last month, local movers and shakers gathered at River Ranch Resort to recognize businesses that strive to serve the county during the Chamber of Commerce Business Banquet.

Chamber President, Shawn Cooper, took a moment to speak about the organization’s goal before the night’s festivities began. He explained his involvement with the chamber began because of a longterm goal he holds dear.

“I have a dream that one day McDonald County will be the number one place to raise your children,” he said. “Currently, we’re ranked 110/115. Forty-six percent of children under the age of 6, live below the poverty line.”

“But there’s hope. I believe, through commerce, government, schooling, and job training, we can be the best.”

Cooper noted a pressing goal is to transform unskilled labor to skilled and mold a dependable workforce. Board members are also actively working to increase tourism and expand business along I-49.

The banquet was prepared and served by students from various levels of Marie Strader’s Pro-Start culinary classes. The three-course meal featured chicken cordon bleu, a vegetable medley, and a mouth-watering chocolate dessert.

After dinner and before dancing, Cooper recognized award winners. Businesses that are involved with the chamber were nominated, then voted on my board members.

The winners for ‘Best In The County 2016’ are as follows:

• Volunteer – Derek Shawn Cooper

• Business – McDonald County Telephone and Internet

• Burger – Sonic (Anderson)

• Event Director – Bob Williams

• Pizza – Mazzio’s

• Insurance Agency – Corner Stone Insurance Agency

• Campground/Canoe – Big Elk Floats & Campground

• Convenience Store – Stang’s Travel Plaza

• Veterinarian – Anderson Animal Hospital

• Steak – Haven 55

• BBQ – Junior’s Smokehouse

• French Fries – Haven 55

• Feed/Farm Store – The Feed Store & More

• Breakfast – Poppy’s Daylight Donuts

• Park – Anderson City Park

MEGAN DAVIS MCDONALD COUNTY PRESS MCHS Juniors, Grant Cooper and David Roark, were two of the culinary students who helped to cater the banquet. Students spent a week preparing the menu items for this event.

MEGAN DAVIS MCDONALD COUNTY PRESS Poppy’s Daylight Donuts, located on Main Street in Anderson, was named the best place to eat breakfast. They specialize in fresh donuts, but their menu offers a variety of delectable breakfast items.

MEGAN DAVIS MCDONALD COUNTY PRESS Anderson City Park, located in front of City Hall, was named Best Park in the county. The park has recently undergone an update thanks to the Anderson Betterment Club and the city council.

PHOTO SUBMITTED After two competitors tied for the costume contest, a friendship was forged when the masked gentleman offered the plaque to his mysterious co-contestant.

MEGAN DAVIS MCDONALD COUNTY PRESS The Feed Store & More, located on Beaver Street in Anderson, was voted the County’s best feed/ farm supply store for 2016.

MEGAN DAVIS MCDONALD COUNTY PRESS The last course of the meal was a fudgy brownie, garnished with a chilled raspberry, and creme brulee. Needless to say, it was a crowd favorite.