Families honored at Opening Day ceremonies

Opening Day in Pike is a grand tradition and this year the parade stretched longer than ever and two special families were honored during the Opening Ceremonies.

Dozens of members of the Hatchett family stood on the field as Betty Hatchett was honored for her years of helping out at the recreation department. She passed away April 22, 2025 at the age of 86. For 40 years she worked tirelessly in the concession stand. She also coached her children and grandchildren in baseball and softball. When they played school sports she traveled with them and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on.  

“If Ms. Betty was here, there would be free Popsicles for everyone,” said Parks and Recreation Authority chairman Chris Childress. “For those who knew Ms. Betty, you knew there was no separating her from this ball field. The Pike County recreation fields was her true happy place. If there was a game going on, that’s where she wanted to be. She worked in the concession stand for 40-plus years and it is our honor to dedicate it as the Betty Hatchett Concession Stand in her honor. A permanent sign will go up after construction is completed on the park.”

Jeff Garner and dozens of family members were also present on the field as it was announced that PCPRA would be dedicating field 3 to Garner. He was presented with a plaque and it was noted that a dedication at the field would be held at a later date.

At their March 11 board meeting, members of the board of commissioners discussed the families’ impact on the recreation authority. Tim Guy thanked the Parks and Recreation Authority for a wonderful parade and Opening Ceremony for the start of baseball and softball seasons.

“It was just a great day for the kids and a great day to recognize Jeff Garner who did countless hour of loader work building ball fields at the recreation department and Ms. Betty Hatchett who volunteered at the concession stands for many, many years. We appreciate them for all they did.”

Commissioner Briar Johnson noted that he was out of town but that he was able to watch the ceremonies and parade online.

“There were huge crowds out at the ball fields for Opening Day,” he said. “We’ve known for years that’s a huge deal. My son when he was young, he played out there. I appreciate Chris Childress and his involvement in that and Heather, the director. I was just amazed by the turnout and number of kids that are involved in that and I think that’s a great thing. I also want to thank the recreation board for their planning.”