A truly 'unforgettable evening in Benton

When Rick Knight arranged for his friend, David Slater, to highlight an upscale evening at the Benton Civic Center, he wanted the event to be unforgettable.
For one Benton couple, that is certainly true.
As Slater, the 1987 "Star Search" male vocalist champion, crooned the Nat King Cole tune “Unforgettable,” Mike Williams had dessert delivered to his girlfriend, Amber Holland.
When Holland looked down, nestled atop her dessert was a ring. Williams then took the traditional approach on his knee and popped the question.
The couple was among about 150 guests at the inaugural “Valentine’s Celebration” held Saturday evening at the BCC.
Knight, who serves at board chairman of the BCC, spearheaded the event planning.
“What I’m trying to create is a very eloquent atmosphere for people to enjoy a luxurious meal and wonderful music,” he said.
The evening looked to be a success, although both Knight and BCC Director Bill King were hoping for about 200 attendees.
“We had hope for at least 200,” King said , “but we are very pleased with how this turned out.”
Sharing a table with Williams and Holland, Kim and Kevin Cummins drove nearly an hour from Eddyville to attend the event.
“We saw it advertised on television,” Kevin said, “and I said to my wife, ‘let’s do that.’”
For Holland and Williams, who have been dating since July, the evening was perfect.
“She wanted to get a new dress and go out to a nice dinner,” Williams said. “I just decided to try and make it perfect.”
He must have done something right. She said “yes.”