Oyster Roast attendees take in view at Flake Haven

WADESBORO — The Anson County Chamber of Commerce held its annual Oyster Roast on the half shell at Flake Haven, a local event venue that features a sprawling paradise of picturesque views.

Though the beloved community event dates back to 2017, this year was Chamber of Commerce President Sandy Cox’s first year sponsoring the oyster roast.

“We are really excited to be here at Flake Haven again this year, it is a beautiful venue. I have a supportive board of directors and I am so thankful for those who helped us get set up for today,” said Cox, who admitted the task was a little daunting and she could not have done it without her team behind her.

Cox was also excited to have great weather for the event after Hurricane Helene tore through the Southeast.

“We are really blessed the weather turned out so great today. I know a lot of people waited to purchase tickets until today,” Cox said.

The event ended up having a huge turnout with hundreds of tickets sold. State Rep. Mark Brody, Sheriff Howell, and many other well- known people in the county came out to enjoy fellowship with the community. Rep. Brody, who has been a fixture at the Oyster Roast practically since its inception, shared he always has a good time when he visits Anson County.

“I really enjoy coming, it is great food and great people and it is a great cause to support the Anson County Chamber of Commerce. Flake Haven is a really beautiful place to hold it,” Brody said.

In addition to amazing seafood served up by Washington Crab, the Al and Friends Band out of Charlotte kept attendees grooving. A husband and wife management and ownership team, the band has been together for about six years. Val Gist handles booking while her husband Al Gist assists her with managing the band. He is also the band’s lead vocalist and has been known to create musical magic with the drums on occasion.

“Wadesboro has been really good to us,” Val said.

The band has performed for many notable Anson County events, including the Fourth of July celebration over the summer.

Serving up more than oysters on the half shell, Washington Crab, from Washington, NC, had shrimp, hushpuppies, BBQ sliders, and a variety of other southern delicacies for attendees to enjoy.