“It was really good to get back to having the Elimination Dinner in person,” said Rotary President Ed Given regarding the annual event held at Braxton County High School last Saturday evening. “Even though we had a smaller crowd than usual, everyone seemed to enjoy the evening and it was great to get back to some since of normal,” he added.
For the past two years the event has been strictly virtual, so to have the final two contestant present and agree to split the grand prize was very satisfying according to the organizers. When all the numbers but two were drawn only Janet Six and Missy Jones, who was the holder of a ticket purchased by Kathy Parker, remained in the hopper. Both agreed to split the jackpot and took home $500 each.
Also returning to the 2022 event was an in-person silent auction. A separate online auction what has been active for a week also concluded at 8:00 p.m. with a host of winners claiming a total of 84 prize packages donated by community businesses and individuals. “We can not thank our supporters enough for the host of fine prizes and gift certificates that made up the auction and raffle prizes,” said Given. “Their generosity greatly contributed to our Club awarding $12,000 in scholarships to BCHS graduates.”
The evening began with a delicious meal prepared by Anita Miller and her crew. Sissy Price gave the invocation, followed by Given’s welcome to those in attendance and Dylan Johnson’s introduction of Rotary guests.
Master of Ceremonies Jamie Oates began the elimination at 7:00 p.m. All the activities were broadcast live via Braxton Live courtesy of the Eric Campbell and his crew.
“We have had a lot of input regarding the two formats used to keep the Elimination Dinner alive during the pandemic. We like this year’s combination which allows everyone to gather for fellowship and fun but gives those who live outside Braxton County or are otherwise unable to attend an opportunity to get in on the fun. We hope to improve on the new combination for future dinners. We also hope to return to our early spring date next year,” concluded the President.