GILLETT -- Those in the know didn't mind driving down the gravel road to the farm shop of former Congressman Marion Berry in Gillett on Jan. 14. They knew that once inside there would be good music, good eats and a good cause to support. And despite a gray and foggy afternoon, a crowd of 200 or so arrived at the shop for the annual Berry Pre-Coon Supper Reception.
Friends and former staff of the congressman were busy at large smokers outside. They kept food tables inside the shop stocked with a steady supply of bacon-wrapped duck bites, ribs and smoked sausage. Vegetable trays, chips and dips and a chocolate sheet cake filled out the rest of the buffet. Entertainment was by the central Arkansas band The Going Jessies.
The event was formerly a campaign fundraiser for the now-retired congressman. For the last five years, proceeds have gone to the Marion and Carolyn Berry Scholarship Fund at Arkansas State University. This year, the party raised more than $10,000 for the scholarship fund. The reception precedes Gillett's annual Coon Supper hosted by the Gillett Farmers and Business Club.
High Profile on 01/22/2017