WARREN, Ark. – The 67th Annual All-Tomato Luncheon, a cherished tradition of the Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival, took place Saturday afternoon at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. The event was a delightful blend of community spirit, local cuisine, and recognition of agricultural excellence.
Top photo: Owner of South Arkansas Pet Cremations, Jason and Elizabeth Britton(far left and right), purchased the annual box of tomatoes auctioned off at the All-Tomato Luncheon. They are picture with Tomato Festival Pageant winners(from left to right in center) Teen Miss Pink Tomato Alivia Nixon, Pre-Miss Pink Tomato Paige Byrd, and Miss Pink Tomato Carly Shiver.
The menu, carefully planned, prepared, and served by the Bradley County Extension Homemakers Club, showcased a variety of tomato-based dishes. Attendees enjoyed a spread that included chicken salad stuffed tomatoes, tomarinated carrots, tomato bean almandine, tomato basil crackers, heavenly tomato cake, and refreshing iced tea.
State Representative Jeff Wardlaw presided as Master of Ceremonies. The luncheon began with a warm welcome from Bradley County Judge Klay McKinney, followed by an invocation by Rev. Dixon Platt, pastor of First Methodist Church. Warren Mayor Gregg Reep took the opportunity to recognize distinguished guests, including local political leaders, candidates, and various community leaders.
County Extension Agent-Staff Chair John Gavin introduced Dr. John D. Anderson, Sr. Associate Vice President for Agriculture-Extension with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. Dr. Anderson spoke about the significance of rural agriculture and the Bradley County Pink Tomato, highlighting its impact on the community and economy.
Hermit Corner Produce received a special plaque for producing the first box of tomatoes in the county this year. Additionally, the Harrod and Johnson families were honored as Farm Family of the Year, recognizing their contributions to local agriculture.
Keeton Hudson, 2024 Pink Tomato Festival Chairman and Mayor of Banks, acknowledged past festival chairmen, emphasizing the festival’s rich history and community involvement.
Local auctioneer Tony Cathey led a lively auction, where a box of tomatoes fetched a winning bid of $2,050 from Jason and Elizabeth Britton, owners of South Arkansas Pet Cremations. A tomato chocolate cake was also auctioned off, purchased for $750 by Representative Jeff Wardlaw on behalf of State Senator Ben Gilmore.
Winners of the Pink Tomato Festival Pie Contest and the Bicycle Decorating Contest were announced, with separate articles detailing the results available on the Saline River Chronicle’s website.
The luncheon concluded with closing remarks by Mrs. Penny Vance, County Extension Agent, who expressed gratitude to all participants and contributors, reinforcing the community’s shared commitment to celebrating local agriculture and traditions.