Staff writer
The sounds of country music filled the air Saturday as almost 700 people flocked to Tampa to attend the annual hog roast sponsored by Tampa State Bank.
Seated on curbs, in lawn chairs, and on small square bales of hay along Main Street, they came from a wide area to enjoy a barbecued pork meal and music by the Justus Band.
Some used the occasion for family get-togethers and high school class reunions. Teenagers enjoyed getting together with friends, and adults were proud to show off children and grandchildren.
According to bank President Chris Costello, five 300-pound hogs were roasted and 24 gallons of baked beans were prepared for the occasion.
The food was all gone by the end of the evening, except for a few pork sandwiches reserved for participants in the co-ed softball tournament played Saturday and Sunday at the ball diamond.
“The crowd was outstanding,” Costello said. “We don’t like to have food left over and were more than happy to see it gone.
“We have a lot of loyal customers and just wanted to show our appreciation.”
Tampa State Bank was established in Tampa in 1901. A branch bank in Marion was opened in 1999.