Dear Editor:

On behalf of the SC State Coonhunters Association I want to thank Newberry for the hospitality it showed to all who were involved in the AKC World Coonhound Championship. Everywhere people went they were met with smiling faces and kindwords, from the hotels, restaurants and stores.

We also want to thank the Fairground commission, Ms. Iris and all of her folks were very supportive, as well as the Chamber of Commerce and county administration for the support they gave us prior to and during this event. Crystal Waldrop worked with us to ensure the fairgrounds were ready for an event of this size. Thank you.

To Mary Willingham, Michelle Williams and Jan Piersol who sang our National Anthem every day, the accolades for your great performances continue to come in!

We want to thank Sheriff Foster and Major Johnson for all of your support as well as Chief Swindler with the city.

To Ted Williams, Jimmy Coggins, WSPA, WLTX and the DNR thank you for the coverage given to this event.

I know I have forgotten someone, but we are deeply grateful to the hospitality you showed to competitors from the 24 different states represented.

On Saturday there was three major outdoor events being conducted in Newberry County,the AKC World Hunt & Show at the fairgrounds, the bass tournament at the lake and the State Squirrel Hunt was taking place in Whitmire.

Newberry County supports outdoorsmen and this is one reason the AKC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP will return to Newberry again next year!

Thank you.

The Board of Directors of the SC State Coonhunters Association

David McKee, President

Whitmire