Ashley's Angels

Jessica Ann Smith Benefit, October 11

The Jessica Ann Smith Benefit, held in Hickory Flat on October 11 was a success, despite a smaller than expected turn-out. The combined proceeds from a motorcycle ride, barbecue dinner, auction and donations totaled $3,200.
The proceeds from the event will help the Smith family with the expenses they face during Jessica Ann Smith's treatment for leukemia.
Jessica Ann Smith was present at the benefit, posing for photos and presenting prizes to raffle winners. Though she was able to attend the benefit, Smith was hospitalized the following Sunday night. Her hospitalization was due to unexpected bleeding of her liver. She is due to come home from St. Jude this weekend for a visit.
The motorcycle ride went through Ashland to Falkner, proceeded to Ripley, through downtown New Albany, and returned to Hickory Flat by way of Myrtle. They were led by police escorts throughout the majority of the ride. Escorts were provided by Danny Joe Smith, Tippah County Sheriff's Department, City of Ripley Police Department, and New Albany Police Department.
Much of the participation in this ride came from members of "Ashley's Angels" which is a motorcycle group whose main charity is dedicated to underprivileged children. The group buys Christmas gifts for kids who otherwise would not receive many toys. Randy and Barbara Webb, who organized the Smith benefit, work with Larry and Kathy Ferguson of the Ashley's Angels each year.
Following the motorcycle ride was a barbecue dinner. Members of Hickory Flat Fire Department and other volunteers served smoked boston butts, cole slaw, french fries, cupcakes and more to ride participants and individuals who purchased plates. They cooked so many boston butts for the event, that they filled an old fashioned metal bath tub, which had been lined with tin foil.
The event continued with entertainment by Butch Owens of Booneville and the presentation of door prizes, raffle winners and an auction.
Randy Webb related that many people went out of their way to help with the benefit. Many stores including Wal-Mart and the Wal-Mart D.C., Mansel's Piggly Wiggly, Colonial Baking Company, Coca-Cola of North Mississippi, and many more contributed to the event. He also expressed his appreciation for the police departments, fire department, the City of New Albany, and the many individuals who jumped in and volunteered their help for this event.
Webb said, "So many people jumped in and helped, no matter their religious affiliations, that I couldn't possibly thank each one. They are all appreciated."