The beautiful billboard sized banner of the Oliver Chilled Plow, courtesy of Mike Hodupp, made a stage backdrop that has not been equaled up until this time and probably never will be.  It was perfect as we reflected back to what was the beginning of the great Oliver company started by CW Hart, CH Parr, and James Oliver, whose work and products we had come to honor.
The back part of the building held the memorabilia, implements, and tractor display.  It was the largest display  assembled at a HPOCA Winter Get Together.
Saturday evening, as we looked out across the decorated banquet area, the room had been transformed into a sea of glittering green and white.  It was the most beautifully decorated tables that our eyes have ever beheld for an HPOCA banquet.    Balloons symbolized our spirit of celebration.  There were commemorative glass mugs and appropriate 1948 Oliver Shield key chains for every one there.  The greatest part of the evening was the delicious food catered by the Auburn House.  Approximately 466 people were fed. 
The banquet was followed by the evening's entertainment sung by Jim Vickroy and accompanied by Roger Ricketts.  I think the Dad's 88 Oliver  and the John Deere Blues original songs by Jim Vickroy drew the hardiest round of applause for HPOCA entertainment up to this time.  They deserved a standing ovation.
The surprise drawing and gifts received by the HPOCA ladies only  were also  fine ideas.

The fun auction conducted by auctioneers, Kurt & Jane Aumann followed the evenings activities.

There are many other successful aspects of the whole weekend that made it very enjoyable for those attending.  But, I don't want to bore you by naming everything.  As we look back at what was accomplished, it was a huge success under the direction of our fearless Oliver Gang leader and president, Larry Widner , and his understanding wife, Hope.