Features Editor

The Brundidge Business Association’s annual banquet was a sellout before the tickets hit the street.

Delatha Mobley, association treasurer, said the response to this year’s banquet has been overwhelming, as it should be because Brundidge has had a banner year.

"So many good things have happened in our town this year and our future is very bright," Mobley said. "We have a lot to celebrate."

Brundidge Mayor Jimmy Ramage will give the state-of-the-city address highlighting the ground breaking ceremony for Wal-Mart’s newest and largest distribution center in March. The center will bring as many as 600 jobs to the area once it is at full work force.

Ramage will also talk about Southern Classic Food Group’s plans to relocate in an expanded facility on the town’s northside, Carter Brothers Manufacturing recent expansion, the opening of a Subtitle D landfill and other projects affecting the city.

A highlight of the banquet will be the recognition of the Brundidge Business Association’s man and woman of the year.

"The winners are a close-kept secret and it’s always an honor to recognize two of our citizens who have made outstanding contributions to our community during the year," Mobley said.

The award winners are chosen by a committee from nominations submitted to the BBA from the membership.

Mobley said everyone is to be reminded of the banquet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Brundidge Station.

"We expect everyone who bought a ticket to be there," she said. "Sometimes tickets are bought to a event with little or nor intention of being there. But, we expect a packed banquet facility with no no-shows."

The

installation of new officers will take place during the program and a large number of door prizes will be given out before the 2002 BBA Banquet is called an evening.