Jerry Huffman honored for 35 years of CAT service

In their annual meeting, functioning as the first meeting since their performances of “One Christmas Eve at Evergreen Mall” and their first meeting of 2026, Crest Area Theatre reflected on their latest production and successful year.

The meeting also marked Jerry Huffman’s departure from CAT’s board of directors and position of treasurer. Taking the place of treasurer is new board member Dylan Linch.

Huffman was honored during the meeting for 35 continuous years of dedication to CAT. CAT’s summer production of 2025, “The Beverly Hillbillies,” was Huffman’s final show as a director.

Huffman, giving his final financial report, presented the full financials for “One Christmas Eve,” including a total production and advertising budget of $1,911.35. Ticket sales eclipsed the number at $2,030. An additional donation of $20 was also made to CAT. As is tradition for CAT productions, 10% of ticket sales were donated to the Crest Area Food Pantry at $203.

CAT President Bill Mullin, who also directed “One Christmas Eve,” noted how some additional purchases made during production, such as set materials, will be reused in future shows, hopefully reducing future costs.

Huffman recommended raising ticket prices to help keep CAT financially stable, but also said the start of 2026 marked a better year financially than the previous.

Other than Linch’s election as treasurer, President Mullin, Vice President Justin Kendrick and Secretary Linda Huffman remained in their officer positions. Additionally, Brooklyn Evans was elected to the board as a youth representative. The board hopes to encourage further youth participation.

Both of 2025’s shows, “Beverly Hillbillies” and “One Christmas Tree” marked a successful year for CAT. “Beverly Hillbillies” was especially noted for a strong turnout.

The next regular meeting will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1. The meeting will kick off discussions for an upcoming summer production.