Members Gather for Christmas party
On Thursday December 8, twenty-five members of the Eastern Oklahoma section gathered at Freddie’s Steakhouse Event Center in Sapulpa OK for the annual Christmas party.
The food this year was better than ever, and the table decorations made for a special night. The evening was kicked off with a prayer by Section Vice President Nathan Armer. Members dined on their choice of Chicken, Salmon, or Filet Mignon entrees. Ron and Jean Hardage donated the poinsettia centerpieces and winning members were able to take them home.
After dessert, Section President John Kushnerick thanked the Officers, Board members, and event planners for their help in 2022. He recapped all the gatherings, special events, tours, and drives during the year and promised much more in 2023.
Members who had significant MBCA anniversaries were also recognized:
- Don East 45 years
- Rene Kessler 40 years
- Dave Hinnant 25 years
- Walt Miller 15 years
- Ron Hardage 15 years
- William Hill 15 years
- Ben Cunningham 15 years
The highlight of the presentation was the announcement of the Member of the Year Award for 2022. The award given by the officers and board members recognizes service, achievement, and contributions to the club. Kristen Bebout was shocked and surprised to learn that she had won. Kristen thanked everyone and told us that she has a “servant’s heart” and seeks to serve others in her life and job everyday as a person behind the scenes who does not seek recognition but gets joy in helping others. Her employer Jackie Cooper Imports provided us with outstanding reviews of her status as a very valued employee.
The pinnacle of the evening is always the “Dirty Santa” gift exchange. There was more nice than naughty this year as only the bottles of wine seemed to be stolen more than any other gift.
Members also donated canned goods and other dry goods for the needy at Bixby Outreach food pantry.
Finally, a calendar of upcoming first quarter 2023 events were communicated including a Route 66 Neon light drive and a trip to the Tulsa Air and Space Museum.
