Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Rotarians Learn about Pilgrims

At the November 18th De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Pilgrims Accounting Manager Rotarian Daniel Martinez (left) gave a snapshot of Sevier County’s largest employer.  J.B.S. is the majority owner of Pilgrims with 85% of the outstanding shares.  Pilgrims is a global company with 52% of its products staying in the U.S.  Pilgrims is the second largest poultry producer in the U.S., and ranks first globally.  Around the world, Pilgrims employs 70,000 team members and produces 210 million four-ounce servings daily.  Martinez described the De Queen plant as part of the company’s case-ready division that primarily packages chickens for supermarkets.  In 2023, the local processing plant earned a third-place operational excellence award in the case-ready division.  That prompted a visit from the company’s President and Global Chief Executive Officer Fabio Sandri who presented the local plant officials with a check from corporate. Martinez says the cash reward was used to upgrade the cafeteria at the plant and to purchase microwave ovens.  In 2019, the company invested $54 million to construct a feed mill in Nashville that produces 12,000 tons of feed per week.  The total economic impact that Pilgrims has locally is over $131 million annually. That includes an $87.5 million payroll and $37.5 million for grower payouts.  Martinez says that Pilgrims strives to be a good corporate citizen having recently donated $480,000 for a splash pad at Herman Dierks Park and $225,000 to construct a walking trail at Sevier County Medical Center.  Pilgrims made a significant donation toward the turf at Leopard Stadium, and recently agreed to purchase 25 flags from the Rotary Club’s annual flag fundraising project in conjunction with patriotic holidays.  Daniel is pictured with Account Manager at Pilgrims in De Queen, Kimberly Martinez (right).

Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Holiday Promotions

Suzanne Babb (pictured) with the Sevier County Chamber of Office visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Wednesday morning, November 13th, to talk about the upcoming holiday promotions.  Black Friday-Sevier County Style will take place on Friday, November 22nd, where participating stores will hold their big sales events early, keeping the holiday spirit local.  Small businesses are encouraged to send their Black Friday promotion flyers by Friday, November 15th, to dqchamber@gmail.com.  The flyer will be shared across social media, website, radio, and newspaper and will be featured on both the Sevier County Chamber & Sevierly Strong Facebook pages for sharing, plus the Chamber website.  This is exclusive for Sevier County Chamber members, with no participation fee.  The second promotion is titled Blackout Holiday Bingo where the Chamber will promote this event across media outlets with participating businesses and their name or logo presented for shoppers.  Shoppers will then visit each business to get a custom sticker for the square from that store.  Completed “blacked out” bingo cards are dropped off at the Chamber office—one entry per person.  Weekly drawings will pick winners from individual squares, with prizes ready for pickup at each business.  You must be a Sevier County Chamber of Commerce member with a public storefront or office in Sevier County to participate.  Businesses then must provide a prize to be held at your business for winner pick-up.  Prizes should be at least $25 retail value for a business name on a square and at least $50 retail value for a business logo on a square.  The event is free for Chamber members to participate, and you can join by emailing your prize description to dqchamber@gmail.com by Wednesday, November 20th.

Wreaths Across America

Rick Gregory (pictured) came in your #1 Country Studios on Wednesday, November 13th, to talk about the upcoming Wreaths Across America event on Saturday, December 14th.  Wreaths will be placed on the headstone of an American hero on Saturday, December 14th, as part of National Wreaths Across America Day.  Wreaths can be purchased online at wreathsacrossamerica.org for $17 each.  Wreaths will be placed at the Campground Cemetery at 10 am, at Pauley Cemetery at 1 pm and Cerro Gordo Cemetary at 3 pm.  For more information, contact Local Wreaths Across America volunteers Rick Gregory at 970-533-7180, Rosie Jones at 903-826-5177, Lynette Boyd at 903-824-4298, or Roger Quilty at 903-824-0212.

Horatio High School Marching Band

The Horatio Roaring Lion Marching Band participated in the Class 3A ASBOA State Marching Assessment on Tuesday, November 12th.  Horatio was one of 22 Class 3A bands in the state that scored an “Excellent” or “Superior” rating in order to qualify for the state marching assessment. 
 

Rotary Honors Veterans

Rotary handed out special recognition to eight veterans in attendance on Veterans Day.  They included left to right, along with their branch of military service, include Murray “Tuffy” Neely – Navy, Rotarian Jerry Davis – Navy, Jimmie Tollett – Air Force, Rotarian Orville Wayne Smith – Army National Guard, Larry Wakefield – Marines, Ricky Hendricks – Army National Guard, Charles Ault – Aymy, and James Jacobs – Air Force.  Chuck Ault, Vice-commander of the local American Legion Post 54 in De Queen, thanked the Rotary Club for their recognition. Ault showed appreciation to the City and County for their support.  Ault also recognized Patriot Railroad for recently providing a wheelchair ramp at the Legion’s meeting facility on Eighth Street.  Retired from the Army, where he served a stint in Vietnam, and also retired from law enforcement, Ault has visited all 48 contiguous states and closed his speech by saying he loves America!

Rotary Student of the Month

Riley Smith (center), daughter of Erik and Jill Smith, was recognized as the November Student of the Month at the weekly meeting on Monday, November 11th.  Riley was accompanied at Monday’s meeting by her mother, Jill (left), and her grandmother “G” Johnnie Vance, who have both taught at De Queen Elementary School.  As a third generation Leopard, Riley has attended De Queen schools since kindergarten. She’s an executive producer for DQTV, which has enabled her to take trips to California and to the Arkansas state capitol, where she had the opportunity to interview Governor Sarah Sanders and Secretary of Education Jacob Oliva. Riley is also involved with National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Drama Club, and tennis team.  Riley is a member of Kern Heights Baptist Church and has gone on a mission trip with the church to Mexico.  Riley plans to attend a four-year college and pursue a degree in sports broadcasting.  In her spare time, Riley works at KDQN as a board operator for sports broadcasts.  Riley received her Rotary Student of the Month certificate from Rotary President Michael Collins (right).

Rotary Awards Rotaract $375

Rotary Secretary Tammy Huddleston (left) presented a $375 donation to the Rotaract Club at U of A Cossatot at their weekly meeting on Monday, November 11th.  Rotarian Erika Buenrostro (right), Rotaract sponsor, and Makenzie Lauren Townsend (center), a student ambassador and Rotaract member, accept the contribution.  The Rotaract Club recently finished filling up 47 Operation Christmas Child Boxes that will be shipped to children in need around the world in time for the holidays.  Makenzie told Rotarians that she completed ten of the boxes herself.  After completing her studies at U of A Cossatot, Makenzie plans to transfer to U of A Fayetteville and pursue a degree and her masters in Speech Pathology.

Past District Rotary Governor Presents Basics

At the November 4 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Past District Governor Emil Woerner (center) of Bryant reviewed Rotary Basics for the local club members.  The De Queen Rotary Club sponsored Woerner’s Bryant Club in 2006.  Woerner reported that membership in Rotary has grown to 1.3 million members involved with 46,000 clubs around the globe.  The De Queen Club is part of District 6170 that encompasses south and western Arkansas.  Rotary was founded in Chicago back in 1905 by Paul Harris. The 2024-25 Rotary International President is Stephanie Urchick of Pennsylvania.  Rotary International has seven areas of focus: Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention; Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene; Maternal and Child Health; Basic Education and Literacy; Community Economic Development; and Environment.  Woerner was introduced by Rotarian Z.Z. Kamruddin (left), who arranged the program. Kamruddin, also a Rotary Past District Governor, currently serves as the Membership Attraction Committee Chairman at the district level.

Polio Plus Society Members

At the November 4 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Past District Governor Emil Woerner of Bryant (left) presented Polio Plus Society certificates and pins to Greg Revels (center) and Z.Z. Kamruddin (right) in appreciation of their $100 annual financial commitment to fight Polio until the dreaded disease is eradicated worldwide.  There are just a handful of Polio cases left.  They’re centered in a mountainous region near the Pakistan and Afghanistan border where the terrain and political concerns make it difficult to get Polio vaccinations into the area.  The Bill Gates Foundation continues to match Rotary contributions two-to-one in the fight to eradicate Polio.  The Rotary Polio Plus campaign is the world’s largest public health initiative ever.  Since the inception of the Polio Plus campaign in 1985, more than 2.5 billion children have been vaccinated against the terrible disease.

6th Annual Trunk or Treat

The 6th annual Trunk or Treat will be held on Saturday, October 31st, at the Sportsplex from 5-7 pm.  There will be fun, food, games and candy.  For more information, you can follow the De Queen Trunk or Treat page for more information.  The event will take place regardless of the weather.  Carlos Sandoval (left), Alicia Rivas (center), and Cristian Ceballos (right) came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Wednesday morning, October 30th, to talk about the event happening tomorrow.

AEDC South Arkansas Rep Speaks at Rotary

At the October 28th De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Arkansas Economic Development Commission Regional Manager for Community Development Dana Poindexter (right) explained some of the activities that the state commission is focusing on and involved with.  Some of the divisions of the AEDC include: Business Development, Business Finance, Community Development, Grants, Military Affairs, Small Business Entrepreneurship, and Rural Services.  Poindexter says that the AEDC is now placing a special emphasis on the Department of Workforce Services to make sure that it’s applicable to current industry needs.  Poindexter described economic development as selling a product.  Community development makes that product more marketable and competitive by helping to make Arkansas communities a better place to live, own and operate a business, and creating a better opportunity for work.  As of the end of September, the AEDC has seen 2023 new jobs created in Arkansas this year with a capital investment of more than $334 million. The average hourly wage in Arkansas is $25.77.  The AEDC has assisted industries with 22 incentive packages in 2024, while the Arkansas unemployment rate sits at 3.3%, well below the national average of 4.2%.  In response to questions from Rotarians, Poindexter says the  Housing shortages were also discussed and Poindexter explained how AEDC participates in listening sessions with communities and tried to connect them with any state level resources or local contacts that may help address these challenges.  Poindexter was introduced by Sevier County Economic Development Director Veronica Ozura (left), who arranged the program.

Ashdown Schools are Now Certified Heart Safe Schools

Ashdown Public Schools is proud to announce that all three Ashdown campuses (Ashdown Elementary, Ashdown Jr High, and Ashdown High School) are now certified Heart Safe Schools through Project ADAM.  Thanks to a partnership with Domtar Everyday and Arkansas Children’s Hospital, our schools are equipped with a comprehensive sudden cardiac arrest response plan, trained staff, and a cardiac response team to keep our students, staff, and visitors safe.  Project ADAM was established in 1999 following a series of sudden deaths among high school athletes in Wisconsin and Georgia, many of which were attributed to ventricular fibrillation – a type of heart arrest caused by abnormal, sustained electrical stimulation of the heart muscle. The program focuses on placing AEDs in schools and providing training to ensure timely response to cardiac emergencies.

Legacy Academy Student Showcase

Legacy Academy proudly hosted its 2024 Student Showcase on Tuesday evening (October 22nd), celebrating the academic achievements and creativity of its students.  Attendees from Kindergarten through 12th grade showcased their classroom projects across a diverse range of subjects, including history, literature, art, biology, and more.  This event highlighted the commitment to a Classical Christian education, emphasizing the importance of academic rigor and holistic learning.  From original poetry and intricate models of colonial and frontier homes to handcrafted Egyptian papyrus and detailed aquatic biome dioramas, the showcase offered a unique insight into the life and learning experiences of Legacy students.  The event also featured a live art exhibit by Mrs. Wright's 1st to 4th-grade art students, showcasing A Sunday on La Grande Jatte – 1884 by Georges Seurat.  For more details about the Classical Christian education model, visit Legacy Academy’s website at legacywarriors.org or the Association of Classical Christian Schools at (http://classicalchristian.org).

The Walking Dog

Special Guests, Memo Ambriz (right) and Memo Jr. (left), visited the KDQN Studios on Friday, October 25th, to invite the community to their new restaurant The Walking Dog Station, located at 209 West Collin Raye Drive in De Queen.  The Walking Dog Station is a restaurant that serves the same gourmet dogs but with many more menu items….fresh salads, amazing burgers, sandwiches, fried pickles and mushrooms, etc.  They also make a variety of speciality lemonades.
The decor inside is impressive with an entire wall of art painted by a very talented local artist out of Horatio, AR.
Beginning November 9th, they will open Saturdays and Sundays.  Currently, they are open Mondays through Thursdays from 11 am to 8 pm and Fridays from 11 am to 10 pm.  For daily specials and menu items be sure to visit their Facebook page, The Walking Dog Station.

Rotary Golf Outing Winner

Chris Richards (right) was named the winner of the Rotary golf outing drawing on Thursday, October 24th.  Chances were worth $25, while the golf outing in Hot Springs was worth $375 for four people.  Chances were sold for World Polio Day as the De Queen Rotary Club works with other Rotary Clubs internationally to eliminate the total polio cases around the world.  Chris dropped by your #1 Country Studios earlier Friday morning, October 25th, to pick up his winnings.  Chris is pictured with Bunyard Broadcasting's as well as Rotarian Greg Revels (left).

Rotary World Polio Day

Tammy Huddleston (left) and Michael Collins (right) came in your #1 Country Studios on Thursday morning, October 24th, to discuss World Polio Day.  Rotary recently sold chances to win a golf outing in Hot Springs of a value of $375 for $25.  The proceeds went to the De Queen Rotary Club in efforts to end the cases of polio around the world.  Tammy, Michael, and Greg Revels then discussed the events Rotary has held as well as how those events help various organizations around the community. 

Cossatot River Schools Haunted House

The Cossatot River Senior Class will have a haunted house partnered with Cossatot Arts & Crafts on Friday, October 25th, Saturday, October 26th, and Thursday, October 31st.  The event will take place at King Schoolhouse on 104 King Schoolhouse Drive in Gillham, AR.  Price is $10 for ages 13 and up.  Price is $5.00 for ages 5-12.  Some members of the Cossatot River Schools Senior Class visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Thursday morning, October 24th, to talk about the event.

Horatio Lions Band Going to State

Since late July and early August the Horatio Roaring Lion Marching Band has worked very hard to rehearse and perform their 2024 competition show entitled “A 70s Soundtrack.”  The band performed in ASBOA Region II Marching Assessment and received a Division II (Excellent Rating) in Region Performance on Tuesday, October 22nd.  Horatio has once again qualified to compete in the Class 3A Arkansas State Marching Assessment that will be held at War Memorial on November 5th. 

UA Cossatot Foundation at Rotary

At the October 21 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, U of A Cossatot Foundation and Advancement Director Madelyn Jones talked about the history and the successes of the organization.  The Foundation was created as a 501(c)3 in 2002, and has grown to more than $750,000 in total assets.  Jones says the mission of the Foundation is to create attainable educational opportunities and further UA Cossatot institutional development by generating resources and funding through philanthropic and community support.  The Foundation’s purpose is to ensure that every person has the opportunity to further their education and professional development with minimal barriers to costs and expenses.  Jones pointed out that the Foundation awards around 40 scholarships annually, totaling approximately $60,000.  The school’s scholarship application cycle runs from October 1st through March 1st each year.  Jones encouraged Rotarians to consider endowing a scholarship.  The minimum gift amount for an endowment is $15,000.  The scholarship award is taken from the interest accrued.  The Foundation also supports all athletic scholarships given to students for Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Men’s and Women’s Soccer, and Shooting Sports.  Jones concluded by summarizing the ways to give to the Foundation.  They include cash or check donations, bequests and planned giving, corporate matching gifts, employee payroll deductions, and in-kind donations.  Checks can be made payable to: UA Cossatot Foundation and mailed to UA Cossatot Foundation, 183 College Drive, De Queen, AR, 71832.  Interested parties can also give online by going to the college’s website.  All gifts are tax-deductible, and donors will receive a tax receipt upon gift donation.  For more information, call Madelyn Jones at 870-584-1172.  Following the presentation, Rotary President Michael Collins (right) presented a $1,000 check to Jones (left) and the UA Cossatot Foundation to fund the non-traditional scholarship that the Club annually sponsors.

Horatio Homecoming Court

Horatio's Homecoming game will be Friday, October 25th, against Fouke.    Daytime Coronation will be at 2:30, Pep Rally at 3:00 followed by the parade at 3:30.  Evening Coronation begins at 6:30.  Game begins at 7.  Pictured left to right: First row – Crown bearer Esmeralda Zapata, Sr. Maid Kiara Zapata, Sr. Maid Yarixel Ramirez, Queen Emma Cleghorn, Sr. Maid Addison Wilson, Sr. Maid Olivia Frady, Football Bearer Marshall Moreland.  2nd Row Sr. Colton White, Sr. Leyton Ochoa, Flower Girl Hayli Lyon, Jr. Maid Alysson Gutierrez, So. Maid Paige Williamson, So. Maid Isabella Baker, Sr. Captain Trey Smith, Sr. Daniel Gideon.  Not Pictured – So. Maid Layla Tallant, Sr. Jake Terry, Sr. Ruben Callahan.  —

Daughters of the American Revolution

The Mine Creek – Paraclifta Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution will kick off the celebration for the upcoming Semiquincentennial  or 250th birthday of the United States of America.  This Friday, Oct. 18 beginning at 11 a.m., the public is invited to attend a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence, presented by Sevier County’s Ethan Wolcott, at the Micah 6:8 Coffee Shop.  Carrie McGaha (right) is with the local DAR chapter and hopes this Friday’s event fosters more interest for the organization within the community and excitement for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.  As they look ahead, the group – which consists of members in Sevier, Howard and Pike Counties – is encouraging everyone in Southwest Arkansas to honor the Veterans who sacrificed everything in order to preserve our freedoms and liberties.  Any Patriot or Veteran who has served honorably may be honored.  As 2026 nears, more information will be available to community members who would like to sponsor a tree or crepe myrtle.  The bulk of the sponsorship funds will go towards the purchase of a plaque with the names of those sponsored and maintenance of the trail and area around the permanent historical marker.

Treasure Chest Winner

Bobby Ruth was the winner of opening your #1 Country Studio Treasure Chest at Bailey's 55th anniversary.  Bobby stopped by your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, October 15th, to pick up his check of $50.  Pictured with Bobby (left) is Bunyard Broadcasting's Patrick Massey (right).  

Investment Calculator

LaTonya McElroy of Edward Jones spoke to the De Queen Rotary Club during their meeting on Monday, October 14th. LaTonya advised the club members to see if they are on track for retirement by documenting specific goals.  She advised the members to regularly review their progress and make updates as needed.  The investments you select should align with your risk tolerance as well as your portfolio objectives and long-term goals.  To identify ways to save for retirement, consider tax-advantaged accounts including traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and employer-sponsored retirement plans (401(k)s, 403(b)s, etc.).  As a general rule for retirement savings is about 15% of your salary, but that can vary based on situations.  The 2024 contribution limit for Roth and traditional IRAs is $7,000.  The 2024 contribution limit for 401(k)s and 403(b)s is $23,000.  Additional $7,500 catch-up contribution are available for individuals ages 50 and older. Participation in your employer-sponsored retirement plan does not affect your ability to contribute to an IRA or Roth IRA.  However, employer plan contributions may affect your IRA deductibility.  As for the Roth IRA, you need to make sure you meet the income limits to be eligible to contribute.  LaTonya (left) is pictured with Rotary Segearant of Arms Spike Dunlop (left), and Rotary President Michael Collins (right).

Rotary Student of the Month

Ulyces Coto was named the Rotary Student of the Month at their weekly meeting on Monday, October 14th. Ulyces is a Senior at De Queen High School. He has attended De Queen Schools since Kindergarten. He plays on offense, defense and special teams for the De Queen Leopards football team. He has been named All Conference, leading the team in 105 tackles. He was named All Defense MVP. Ulyces has won the Rotary Spanish Award in the past.   He is also active in DQTV and the Horatio Church of Christ. He is planning to attend a community college whether UA Cossatot or Tulsa Welding School where he will take part in their trade programs. Ulyces was joined by his mother, Miranda, at the meeting.  Ulyces (left) is pictured with Rotary President Michael Collins (right).

Home Builders Expo

The 2nd Annual Home Builders Resource Expo will be held on Friday, October 18th, from 4:30 pm-6:30 pm at the Courthouse Square in Downtown De Queen.  You can showcase your services to potential home builders and meet other industry professionals and contractors who can help grow your business.  There will be door prizes and dinner provided at the event.  Deadline to reserve your spot is Wednesday, October 16th.  You can text Dawn Naney at 918-557-4514 to reserve your spot.  Requesting $25 door prize in lieu of vendor table fee.  Company merchandise, gift cards, industry related items are okay.  Complimentary meals will be served for the first 150 attendees.  The event will be rescheduled if inclement weather occurs.  Angela and Katy Hanney also talked about Bailey's 55th anniversary that happened on Friday, October 11th, and Veronica Ozura talked about Denim & Diamonds that happened on Saturday, October 12th.  Pictured left to right are Veronica Ozura, Katy Hanney, Tara Morphew, and Angela Smith.  

De Queen Rotary Night

The De Queen Rotary Club will host their Rotary Night on Friday, October 11th, before the Leopards game vs Hot Springs.  Rotary will provide free tickets to the first 100 Leopard fans at Friday’s game.  Gates open at 6 pm.  The Club will also have a table set up to sell tickets for golf package (4 person team) to any course in Hot Springs Village, AR.  Tickets are $25 each for a $375 value.  All proceeds donated to Polio Plus for eradication of Polio worldwide.  Tickets will be on sale until Monday, October 21st.  The drawing will be held on Thursday, October 24th.  Winner will be announced on KDQN Radio and on Facebook.  Jason Sanders (pictured) also talked about the De Queen Jr. High Cubs football team including a big win Thursday night, October 10th, over Hot Springs as well as the facilities and achievements at De Queen Schools.

Sevier County Farmer's Coop Meeting

The members of the Sevier County Farmers Cooperative enjoyed a brisket dinner and all the trimmings before settling in to hear a good annual report Thursday evening, October 10th, at the De Queen High School Cafeteria.  Board member Mike Branson (pictured) reported that sales are up roughly 20% this year, compared to 2023.  Total sales were reported at $6.6 million compared to $5.4 million at this same time a year ago.  Pre-Tax income this year is some $84,000, compared to approximately $4,000 at this time in 2023.  Coop Manager Jason Needham attributed some of the financial improvements to upgrading the gasoline pump system at the service station on Lakeside Drive, and  adding hardware items and a tack room to the west Collin Raye Drive location.  Fertilizer buggies and offering cast-iron cookware, as well as the addition of general poultry supplies, have also been popular items that have attributed to the increased sales.  Re-elected to the Coop's Board of Directors Thursday night included: Tom Wagner, Charles Morris, and Richard Ruth.  Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to win door prizes contributed by the Coop's vendors following the business portion of the evening.

Rotary Talks Razorbacks with Otis Kirk

At the October 7 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Razorbacks insider Otis Kirk came down from Fayetteville to talk Arkansas sports. Kirk’s visit was timely as the Razorbacks are coming off that thrilling 19-14 upset win over fourth ranked Tennessee Saturday night.  Kirk says if the Hogs don’t turn the football over, they can compete with any team in the country.  Against Texas A & M the week prior to the Tennessee victory, the Razorbacks suffered three turnovers and were penalized ten times in a four-point loss.  Kirk boasted that Arkansas has two of the best coordinators in the country in Bobby Petrino and Travis Williams.  Kirk went on to say that the Razorbacks should pony up the amount of money it takes to keep Williams around as Defensive Coordinator.  In fact, he added that Williams should receive serious consideration for the next head coaching vacancy at Arkansas.  With the transfer portal, teams can rebuild quickly.  The Razorbacks have 55 new players this year when compared to the 4-8 team a year ago.  Kirk expects that the transfer portal and N.I.L. (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals are here to stay.  He says that some 30 Razorbacks football players are earning $140,000 or more this season.  “And that still puts Arkansas in the bottom third of the S.E.C. in N.I.L. monies”, Kirk added.  Taking a quick look at basketball, Kirk says that John Calipari needed a fresh start, and he appears hungry again.  On the baseball diamond, Kirk predicts that Dave Van Horn’s team will again be among the best in the country.  Kirk (center) was introduced by Rotarian Jacob Bunyard (left), who arranged the program.  Jerry Meadows (right) accompanied Otis down on the trip.  

The 4th Annual Courtney Angel Benefit Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show will be held on Saturday, October 12th, in Lockesburg City Park on 118 W. Pine.  Registration will be held from 8-10 am with judging beginning at 10:15 am followed by awards at 2 pm.  The opening ceremony will begin at 10 am with the pledge of allegiance, opening prayer and announcements.  There is a $25 entry fee with $20 for each additional vehicle.  Judged awards will be for cars and trucks separate by decades pre 40- current, Best of Show Car 1st and 2nd, Best of Show Truck 1st and 2nd, Best of Show Motorcycle, and Best of Show Rat Rod.  Public voting will be for Favorite Car and Truck, Courtney’s Choice Car, and Courtney’s Choice Truck.  Public voting gives you a chance to win $100 cash.  There will also be a 50/50 drawing.  Rain out date will be determined in necessary.  This year’s beneficiary is Penny Stamps Burgess, 54 year old from Dierks, AR.  She is married and has 3 kids.  She has been an employee of Husqvarna for 31 years.  She was diagnosed with Cancer back in August and has recently started her chemo treatments.  Pictured is Chuck Martin who talked about the event on Monday, October 7th.

Denim & Diamonds Event

Suzanne Babb (left) and Veronica Ozura (right) with the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce stopped by your #1 Country Studios earlier Friday morning, October 7th, to talk about the upcoming Denim and Diamonds event on Saturday, October 12th.  Tickets are for sale at $65 per person, but price will be $75 per person at the door of the event.  People that purchase 10 or more tickets will be $60 per ticket.  The Chamber is only selling 200 tickets.  Tickets include a prime rib dinner, an open bar, live entertainment from The Jairumiah Ford Band, and live auction.  

Trunk Or Treat

Alicia Rivas and her daughter Leigha visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Friday morning, October 4th, to talk about the upcoming 6th annual Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 31st.  The event will take place on Thursday, October 31st at the Sportsplex from 5-7 pm.  There will be fun, food, games and candy.  For more information, you can follow the De Queen Trunk or Treat page for more information.  

Disaster Relief Donations

Kathy Hodges (left) and Scottie Morris (right) came by your #1 Country Studios earlier Thursday morning, October 3rd, a disaster donation relief drive from Monday, October 7th, to Friday, October 11th, from 5-7 pm.  Businesses in partnership are the Sevier County Fair Association, De Queen Student Council, Horatio Schools, Horatio Church of Christ, Scottie and Shelly Morris, Sevier County 4-H, and De Queen Auto Group.  Items needed but not limited to include water, non-perishable food items, first aid supplies, diapers, baby wipes, baby formula, hand sanitizer, feminine products, paper products, flashlights, and batteries.  You can drop off your donations at the Sevier County Fairgrounds located on 930 South Rockefeller in De Queen.  De Queen Auto Group will match any monetary donations up to $5000.

UA Cossatot Fish Fry

The Single Parent Scholarship committee at UA Cossatot is hosting a Fish Fry on Tuesday, October 15th, at the De Queen UA Cossatot campus to raise funds for single parents of Sevier County.  The event will begin at 4 pm.  Plates are $10 and include fish, french fries, cole slaw, and hushpuppies.  You can drive thru to pick up food or eat in and enjoy the live entertainment.  UA Cossatot is seeking sponsors.  UA Cossatot Colts will also host a fish fry this Friday, October 4th, to raise money for the basketball team.  Pictured left to right are Madelyn Jones, Erika Buenrostro, and Jessica Santiago.

Rocky Comfort Pecan Festival

The Rocky Comfort Pecan Festival will be held on Saturday, October 19th, on Schuman Street in Foreman from 9 am-11 pm.  There will be over 100 craft vendors, a food court, a classic car show, a kids zone, an arm wrestling tournament, a wild game cook-off, costume pet parade, costume 5K run, Little River Bake off, Farmer's Market, haunted house, street dance, tractor show, live music, cornhole tournmanet, beauty pageant, and hot dog eating contest.  You can find information on each of the events on the Foreman Community Foundation Facebook page.  Brother Rick Gregory talked about the event on your #1 County Studios earlier Tuesday morning, October 1st.

Rotary Hears about AR Latino Hall of Fame

At the September 30 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Jorge Gonzalez of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, spoke about the upcoming Arkansas Latino Hall of Fame induction ceremony of which a Sevier County man will be one of the five honorees.  The North Little Rock Chamber is sponsoring the event.  Roberto Martinez of Horatio will be inducted as part of the inaugural class of the state’s Latino Hall of Fame at a sold-out dinner on Thursday, October 24th , at the North Little Rock.  Four individuals, including Martinez, along with one group will make up the inaugural class of five members.  The induction ceremony will be available for viewing on the P.B.S. livestream.  There is also a Spanish news outlet that plans to show the event via Facebook live.  Gonzalez said that there were 56 nominations for the inaugural class. Besides being a successful rancher in Southwest Arkansas, Gonzalez said that Roberto Martinez stood out to the selection committee because of his dedication to the community that’s been demonstrated through his volunteer work and service on various boards, committees, and nonprofit entities.  Gonzalez (center) was introduced by Rotarian Daniel Martinez (right), who arranged the program.  Daniel is Roberto’s great nephew.  Also pictured is Veronica Ozura (left).

Micah 6:8 Coffee Hour and Open House

Micah 6:8 will host a coffee hour and open house on Tuesday, November 24th, between 9 am-1 pm at their coffee shop.  Visitors can enjoy free coffee today during the open house and learn more about Micah 6:8's goal to eliminate the stigma around mental health and offer support to those struggling with mental health issues.  Members can also join the coffee club by scanning the QR code.  Membership prices include $20/month, $55/quarterly, and $200/annually.  Pictured left to right are Helga Buenrostro, Debbie Akin, and LaTonya McElroy who talked about the event at your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, September 24th.

Rotary Hears About Arkansas Activities Association

At the September 23rd De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, the Associate Executive Director of the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA), Steve Roberts (right) spoke to the club.  Roberts said that every member school from 1A to 7A gets one vote.  It takes 2/3 vote to change the constitution.  Bylaws can be changed with a simple majority vote.  Roberts said there are about 200 schools that play football, however, there are some 320 school districts that compete in some other sport other than football.  The biggest 16 schools that play football are in 7A,  the next 16, based on enrollment are in 6A, followed by the next 32 schools, including De Queen, are in 5A. Classifications are based on enrollment over a 3 year average.  On October 1, school districts will submit their enrollment numbers for grades 9-11.  School districts want to show as high on an enrollment as possible to the Arkansas Department of Education as that also determines their funding received.  De Queen plays a Little Rock school in conference play as the schools have voted for 4 8 team conferences in 5A.  Little Rock is closer to De Queen geographically than the next option, a Pine Bluff school.   Roberts was introduced by Rotary Jason Sanders (left), Superintendent at De Queen Schools.  

Daniel Martinez Inducted into Rotary

Daniel Martinez (left) was inducted as a new member of the Rotary Club on September 23rd.  Daniel is employed at Pilgrims in De Queeen.  His Rotary classification is Poultry Industry.  Martinez is pictured with his sponsor, Veronica Ozura (right). 

Rotary District Governor Sherry Taylor

Rotary District Governor Sherry Taylor visited the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting on Monday, September 16th.  Sherry said as District Governor, she plans to make a stronger push toward improving literacy.  Sherry talked about the various projects Rotary has sponsored students to travel internationally.  She used the example of a student studying in Sweden that is using funds in the Mary Dowdle Scholarship Fund which currently is at $37,000.  She said the previous Rotary District Governor Bill Fish is organizing a service project trip to Guadalajara.  The theme of Rotary this year is “The Magic of Rotary” which means that every member, every project, every dollar makes a difference.  She said through Paul Harris Fellows, every dollar donated to the Rotary Foundation turns into $3 which helps immunize a child diagnosed with polio.  She presented the leadership team with 12 goals to enhance participant engagement because over 150,000 people have joined Rotary the past year, but over 160,000 leave because they don’t feel like they get as much as expected from Rotary.  She then presented the Star Thriver Club, which gives leadership 17 objectives to meet for the year.  There are 4 levels: the blue star (1-3 objectives), the yellow star (4-6 objectives), the teal star (7-11 objectives), and the orange star (12-17 objectives). Every club that meets the objectives for a star will be recognized at the District Conference in June.  Pictured with Sherry (right) is Rotary President Michael Collins (left).  

37th Annual Provo Kids Rodeo

The 37th Annual Provo Kids Rodeo will be held on Saturday, September 28th.  Registration will begin at 9 am, and the rodeo will begin at 10 am.  There will be a chicken dinner at 5 pm for $10 a plate.  Keith Friday Band will have live music between 7-11 pm.  Pictured left to right are Amanda Hundley, Amanda Hibbs, and Amanda Miller who came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, September 10th, to talk about the event.

New Member Induction

Kimberly Martinez was inducted as a new member of the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting on Monday afternoon, September 9th.  Kimberly is the Executive Secretary for the Pilgrims Complex Manager.  Pictured with Kimberly (center) are her sponsor, Veronica Ozura (left) and Club President Michael Collins (right). 

Rotary Student of the Month

Riley Carlton was named the Rotary Club Student of the Month at their weekly meeting on Monday afternoon, September 9th.  Riley is a Senior at De Queen High School.  She is the daughter of Jason Carlton.  Riley plans to attend UCA in Conway and pursue a nursing degree.  Riley talked about her involvement at De Queen High School to the club members.  Pictured with Riley (left) is Rotary President Michael Collins.  

De Queen High School Announces Homecoming Festivities

The De Queen High School Student Council is excited to announce Catherine Socash as the 2024 DHS Homecoming Queen and 9 DHS homecoming maids.  The De Queen Leopards Football team will play their homecoming game against the Hope Bobcats on September 27th.  The homecoming festivities will begin at 1:45 PM with a downtown parade around the square, continuing down School Drive at 2:15 PM for Kindergarten through 12th grade.  The afternoon coronation ceremony will begin at 2:30 PM at the DHS Coliseum followed by a pep rally.  The evening ceremony will begin at 6:30 at Leopard Stadium before the Leopards vs. Bobcats game starting at 7:00 p.m.  Pictured is the homecoming court.  Front Row left to right is Attendant Adleigh Lawrence, Queen Catherine Socash, and Attendant Silas Carver.  2nd Row left to right is Ashley Hernandez (12th), Stephanie Villeda (12th), and Katelyn Ponce (12th).  3rd Row left to right is Lizaneth Gutierrez (12th), and Vianey Dominguez (12th).  4th Row left to right is Noelia Munoz (10th), Jordan West (11th), Marlene Tellez (11th), and Alize Bahena (10th).

Be Pro, Be Pride

Veronica Ozura (left) and Holly Chater (right) visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Thursday morning, August 29th, to talk about the upcoming Be Pro, Be Pride on Tuesday, September 3rd, through Thursday, September 5th.  UA Cossatot will be partnering with the Economic Development Workforce.  Sponsors for the event include Pilgrims, Weyerhaeuser, Domtar, Ledwell & Son Enterprises, Pafford Emergency Medical Services, Tyson Foods, DeQueen Mena Coop, and Farmer's Bank.  Donors include Prime Country Meats, Peak Therapy, REA, and Weyerhaueser.  Randy Henderson will be speaking on Thursday with DQTV recording almost 600 students.  The schools in attendance will include De Queen, Mineral Springs, Horatio, Ashdown, and Murfreesboro.  

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