The Beggs Alumni Association’s annual banquet and silent auction was a resounding success, with a turnout of nearly 175 alumni and guests. The event was a great blend of nostalgia, camaraderie, and achievement, showing the spirit that such a small community instills in each person and leaving everyone eagerly anticipating next year’s gathering.
The high school cafeteria filled with excitement as alumni and guests gathered to reconnect, reminisce, laugh, and share stories, each one a testament to the impact Beggs has had on countless lives.
Alumni Association President James Maddux opened with a welcome and pledge of allegiance, which even Eddie Beasley was eager to rise to for the occasion (with his cool power chair).
Watson Farms Meat Market made another enjoyable meal, while this year’s dinner was served by a team of remarkable teens who navigated the room with grace and efficiency. Leading by example, Natasha Spencer guided these young servers, who ensured that the guests were well-cared for, allowing them to enjoy their meal and the evening’s program without interruption. In the kitchen’s heart, Matt Knier’s guidance was instrumental, ensuring the back of the kitchen’s chores were complete.
The highlight of the evening was a heartfelt speech by guest speaker Pooh Williamson, who shared his experiences and the profound impact his coaches and teachers had on his basketball career and life. He talked a lot about the late Coach Bill Wylie, which brought back memories for a lot of alumni. He had everyone laughing at his rendition of “Why the bike-a-thon route was permanently changed due to Sean Kouplen,” not only because it’s such a funny story but also because we heard both James Maddux’s version and then from Sean Kouplen’s perspective last year – all quite hilarious.
The Class of 84 was celebrating their 40th reunion. They had a classmate fly the impressively long trip from Australia just for the reunion. Kevin Plunkett spearheaded the get-together, which they had made into an all-weekend event.
Two deserving Beggs 2024 graduates, Macey McCoy and Cassidy Lamborn, were awarded scholarships, and we heard inspiring updates from past recipients Zoe Duck and Easton Barrett about their college careers. These stories underscored the importance and impact of the Alumni Association’s scholarship program.
The silent auction was a hit, featuring a range of unique and beautiful items. Standouts included a handmade bench with “The 2-6-7” carved into it, a nod to Beggs’ phone prefix, and a motto adopted by the alumni board but coined by Rod Thompson. Rex’s Woodworks donated several crafted items, including business cards made of wood. Other items included a roaster, local merchandise donated by Kanokie, and four rodeo tickets courtesy of board member Lee Ann Rice-Brantley, just to name a random few.
As we reflect on the success of this year’s event, a special thanks goes out to Beggs High School Principal Caldwell; Mr. Caldwell; Beggs Public Schools Superintendent Mr. Tennyson; the one & only Mr. Alvin “Pooh” Williamson; the server team & supervisors: Natasha Spencer, Matt Knier, Aubrey, Lily, Shayden, Jason, Kadence, Zander, and Zavier; Auction donors: The Maddux Family, Rex Woodworks, Carolyn Taylor, Ed & Connie Beasley, Carol Creason, Kanokie Coffee House, Kathryn Anson, Chicken and Pickle, Small Town Treats, Mathis Home, John Ladd, 4B Ranch, Mobil 1 Lube Express, T5 Knives, Barn Quilters Express, Clubhouse Leathers & Accessories, American Heritage, Angela Efurd, and Sushi Fork; Pearlie Daniels; Watson Farms Meat Market; Beggs Community; and the Okmulgee Times – Thank You.
Plans are already underway for next year’s banquet on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The Alumni Association is committed to making each year better than the last, but this is only possible through generous donations. These contributions not only make these wonderful events possible but also fund scholarships for two graduates each year.
Who knows what next year will bring? Perhaps a friendly competition between Rod and Pooh? Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: the Beggs Alumni Association’s annual banquet will continue to be an event to remember.
[Donations can be made by: Venmo: @BeggsAlumni-Association; PayPal: @PayPal.Me/BeggsAlumni; Cash App: $BeggsAlumni; Check or other: P.O. Box 509, Beggs, OK 74421]
