HFD Rib Supper and Auction a great success

At the recent rib supper and auction, Hayti Fire Chief Glen Whitener recognized Eli Pavy as an honorary member of the Hayti Fire Department.

The 38th Annual Hayti Fire Department Barbecue Rib Dinner and Auction was held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 at the cafeteria of Hayti Schools and, by all accounts, the event was another huge success. Filled to capacity, the cafeteria was bustling with activity as Hayti firefighters and their families (including several hardworking kids), as well as numerous other volunteers, greeted the hundreds of visitors with a smile and a delicious plate of barbecue ribs and all the trimmings. Those who anticipated an outstanding

meal were not disappointed!

Hayti Fire Chief Glen Whitener says the event was a complete and total success, noting that more plates – whether from dine-in guests or carry-outs – were sold this year than at any of the previous 37 suppers. “We had a good number of auction items and a good diversity too, with artistic paintings by local artist, delightful cakes and candies, as well as tools and guns for the guys and many items for women and children,” he said. “There were even Cardinals tickets and Memphis Grizzlies tickets [with seating] just behind their bench.”

Whitener further noted that Lt. Eric Tanner of the Hayti Fire Department and Bobby Khourie were exceptional with their auctioneering duties. “All of this together made for the most successful fundraiser yet,” he added.

Whitener expresses his gratitude to the Hayti School District for the use of school facilities, as well as “Sheriff Tommy Greenwell and his outstanding BBQ crew, Larry Ray for the delicious beans and Timmy Gardner and Ernie Babcock for their continued help and support,” he said. Additionally, Whitener thanks the local businesses and individuals who generously donated to the auction as well as everyone who purchased tickets.

During his introductory comments at the event, Whitener honored the memory of Curt Sanders who recently passed away. Also, as a special part of the festivities, Whitener recognized local Hayti elementary student Eli Pavy as an honorary member of the Hayti Fire Department.

“Eli touched everyone with the singing of the national anthem,” he said. “It made the evening extra special.”