by Debbie Graham

UNION CITY, Tenn. - The 15th annual Purchase Area Horseman’s Association Awards Banquet was held Nov. 22, 2003, at the Hampton Centre located in the Hampton Inn. The evening began with a social hour and was followed by dinner. A large crowd of members and guests enjoyed the excellent buffet meal in the beautiful Hampton Center ballroom, a new location for the annual event.

Kenny Ward, president, served as master of ceremonies. He gave members a report on the status of the association in 2003 and urged members to participate in the annual membership drive. Ward also reported on the Purchase Area Horseman’s Association Annual Charity Horse Show held in the spring each year on the campus of The University of Tennessee at Martin. He expressed appreciation to the officials and volunteers that make the show a success each year.

New officers were announced. The officers for for 2004 are Kenny Ward, president; Jimmy Faulkner, vice-president; Cheryl Lunsford, secretary; and Vicki Garland, treasurer.

Next on the agenda was the presentation of awards. Recognition was given to the owners of 2003 World Champions, and High Point awards and voted awards were presented. Following the awards presentation, there was special entertainment provided by singers impersonating country music stars.

Once again, the annual auction was held. This event has proven to be a good fund-raiser and provides fun as members bid on a variety of items including homemade baked desserts, Christmas decorations and many equine gifts.

A complete list of the awards given at the banquet including high point and reserve high point winners follow.