Arkansas Highway Commissioner Visits De Queen
Arkansas Highway Commissioner David Haak (Center) and Arkansas Highway District Engineer William Cheatham (left) visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Monday, November 27th, before speaking to the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting. Haak graduated from Henderson State University and is owner of First Tape and Label in Texarkana. Haak told the Rotary Club that highways build economic development. Haak believed the three most important highways in Arkansas are I-49, I-69, and Highway 82. Haak talked about the Arkansas Primary Network and the tax that was passed to dedicate help the commission department look and plan ahead to take care of roads in need. He then answered questions from the members. Also pictured is Bunyard Broadcasting’s President Jay Bunyard (right).
DQTV Check Presentation
Bunyard Broadcasting's Toney Stowers, Jay Bunyard, Jennifer Higgins, and Jacob Bunyard presented Arkansas Teacher of the Year Beau McCastlain and the students of DQTV a $3000 check for football. Special thanks to the following sponsors for making this partnership happen: De Queen Auto Group, Southern Home Furnitures, Rise and Shine Cafe, Tri-Lakes Realty, Arkansas Army National Guard, Air-Evac, S&C Tire Shop, Simply Chiropractic, San Juan's Automotive Repair, De Queen Self Storage West, Body Temple, Bristow Custom Metals, Jorge Rivas Garage & Wrecker, Kawasaki of Idabel, Twisted Tines Outfitters, and Southwest Arkansas Accounting Services.
Arkansas Broadcasters' Association Internship
UCA Awards De Queen Senior $18,000
De Queen senior Kaitlin Villeda has been awarded the UCA University Scholarship valued at $18,000. She is the daughter of Jose and Cynthia Villeda. Kaitlin is a member of National Honor Society, FCCLA, FBLA, Quizbowl, TSA, Student Council, Senior Class President, Spanish Club, Interact President, National Art Honor Society treasurer. She has received Rotary Academic Award and All Region band and choir. Kaitlin plans to attend the University of Central Arkansas in Conway and major in Dietetics.
De Queen First Assembly Thanksgiving Grocery Blessings
Jerry Minchew came in to your #1 Country Studios earlier Thursday morning, December 16th, to talk about the upcoming De Queen First Assembly Thanksgiving Grocery Blessings on Sunday, November 19th , at 10:30 am. This event will help provide to the first 100 families in need. To receive a grocery blessing you will get a ticket at the information center as you arrive, and the groceries will be given out after service. No deliveries are available. For additional information, please call 870-584-3435. The church address is 1440 W Collin Raye Dr De Queen.
Goin' Showin' 4H Club Christmas Angel Tree
Jake Seymour with the 4H Club in De Queen came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, September 14th, to talk about the Christmas Angel Tree program. Applications will be set up at First State Bank and Horatio State Bank. The applications will have a kid's age, gender, and size. You can call Linda at 870-584-9592 or Debbie at 870-582-3340 for applications. You can also reach out to the 4H Office at the Extension Building for more information. You can drop finished applications off at the banks listed as well as Shelter Insurance. Applications open up today, November 14th, through Monday, November 20th. Gifts have to be turned in by Tuesday, December 19th.
Secretary of Arkansas of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Visits De Queen
The Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism Shea Lewis visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Monday, November 13th, before speaking to the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting. Shea started his career with Millwood State Park in 1995. Shea talked about the resources offered in Arkansas as well as provided statistics over tourism in 2022. For instance, 48.3 million people visited Arkansas in 2022 which represents a 17% increase from 2021. Transportation, food, and lodging make up a big portion of tourism. The goal is to connect with you and the next generation of park guests and to build lasting and permanent connections in Arkansas. He also talked about events and attractions opening in the next few years such as the Pinnacle Mountain Visitor Center, Details Heritage Trail, and the 2024 Eclipse. Pictured with Shea (left) is Bunyard Broadcasting's Jay Bunyard.
Crossing Paths by Jason Horn
Jason Horn from Nashville visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Friday morning, November 10th, to talk about his new book, “Crossing Paths”. Jason talked about his personal background, where he loved to write poetry but hated to read. The novel took him 18 days to write. The story begins with an 8 year old killing his first man to protect his father, a young widow. They branched in the 1800 Westward Expansion to move down to Southwest Arkansas. The fictional book will use factual events, people and places for the time period. Jason then talked about the process of getting the book published.
Ouachita Baptist University Awards De Queen High School Student Presidential Scholarship
Ashlee McCullough, daughter of Dalton and Christy McCullough, has been awarded the OBU Presidential Scholarship valued at $80,000. Ashlee is a De Queen High School senior who is an active member of the following: Student Council Fundraising Chair, President of the Spanish Club, National Honor Society, FBLA Reporter, FCCLA, DQTV Executive Producer and Interact. She has won regional and state awards for DQTV, National Indigenous Recognition Program and named Leopard of the Week. Ashlee's plans are to attend Ouachita Baptist University and major in Communications and Media with an emphasis in Sports Media.
Horatio Schools Career Day
On November 8th, Alejandra Resendiz, Career Coach at Horatio High School took the students to the Explore Success at Hope Campus so they can learn various careers. There were various partnerships from the industrial technical, agriculture, nursing, firefighter, EMT, and police who showcased what they did in their everyday life. It was a very fun, hand-on learning experience and the students even got to see the different types of simulations.
Sevier County Medical Center Update
The Sevier County Medical Center CEO Lori House (right) and CNO Stacy Dowdy (left) visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Thursday morning, November 9th, to give an update about the Sevier County Medical Center. They will host thier 1st ever Womb Care Clinic on Thursday, December 7th. This outpatient service will help you treat and prevent further damage in wombs. They also talked about hosting their first ever Prenatal Clinic yesterday. They discussed the smooth transition of deliveries of babies up to 36 weeks. Patients are then transferred to the doctor of their choice for delivery. The Medical Center will host students at college in shadowing later in March. They concluded by encouraging the public to visit if you haven't already and applauded their cafe for their daily menus.
De Queen Rotary Club Veterans Program
The De Queen Rotary Club held its annual Veterans Program on Monday, November 6th, during their scheduled meeting! Pictured right to left are Jerry Davis, James Jacob, Larry Wakefield, Ricky Hendrix, CL Ault, Landon Stidman, and Orville Wayne Smith. Jerry Davis and Jamie Smith also honored their fathers who served in the military but have passed away. Larry Wakefield followed the presentation by speaking about American Legion. Special thanks to all the veterans for all they have sacrified for our freedoms!
Rotary Student of the Month
Laura Mae Harp was named the Rotary Student of the Month for November at their weekly meeting on Monday, November 6th. Laura has lived his De Queen her whole life. She is a member of the Lady Leopards basketball team, named All Conference in Track, and played soccer. She is a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and a member of the First Baptist Church. Laura plans to attend UA Cossatot to earn her associates degree and then transfer to the University of Arkansas to pursue a degree in communication science and disorders. Laura plans to get her masters and pursue a career field in speech therapy. Pictured with Laura Mae Harp (left) is Rotary President Greg Revels (right).
De Queen Elementary School Music Program
De Queen Elementary Music Teacher Anissa Manasco (left) and Principal Terri Phillips (right) stopped by your #1 Country Studios earlier Monday morning, November 6th, to talk about the music program. The elementary school held programs the past few weeks. There will be a program on Thursday, November 9th, beginning at 9:30 am and 1:30 pm to talk about the history of America. This will involve the Star Spangled Banner, the pledge, a skit involving the history of America, as well as honor veterans. The program will also honor veterans. Razzle Dazzle will perform at the event as well as the Senior Citizen's Banquet on Thursday, November 16th, at 11 am. The Razzle Dazzle will do a tour around De Queen in December. Terri also talked about the elementary and primary school setting up a PTT or PTO program. The program will meet on Thursday, November 9th, at 5:30 in the Elementary Cafeteria. There is also a canned drive to replenish the food closet. The school will take donations for 1 more week.
De Queen Leopard Basketball Coaches
The De Queen Leopard Basketball Coaches spoke to the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting previewing their upcoming season. The Sr. High Girls and Sr. High Boys will begin the season with an exhibition game at Arkansas High on Tuesday, November 11th. De Queen will also host a regional tournament on Monday, December 4th, through Saturday, December 9th. Both teams will also play in the Mansfield Tournament over Christmas Break. The conference games include Nashville, Magnolia, Arkadelphia, Camden Fairview, Ashdown, Hope and Malvern. Coach Eden Spears and Coach Logan Lindley were excited about the depth and quality of players they have out as well as the upcoming year. Pictured left to right are Jr. High basketball coach/Sr. High assistant Jacob Paxton, Sr. High Girls Coach Eden Spears, and Sr. High Boys Coach Logan Lindley.
KDQN's Pumpkin Carving Contest Winner
Carlie Mickle (center) was the 1st Place Winner for KDQN's 1st Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest. She stopped by your #1 Country Studios to pick up her grand prize gift basket with her sister Cayla (right). Thanks to everyone that participated in KDQN's 1st Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest and thanks to Bunyard Broadcasting's Jen Massey for setting up the event. Pictured with Carlie and Cayla is Bunyard Broadcasting's Patrick Massey (left).
KDQN's Pumpkin Carving Contest
De Queen Sr. High Girl's Basketball Coach Eden Spears was the 3rd place Winner for KDQN's 1st Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest. She stopped by your #1 Country Studios to pick up her gift basket prize. Pictured with Coach Spears (right) is Bunyard Broadcasting's Jacob Bunyard (left).
Otis Kirk Visits De Queen
Otis Kirk with Pig Trail Nation in Fayetteville visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Monday morning, October 23rd, to be a special guest on the Southwest Arkansas Sports Page on the Air podcast. You can listen to the podcast live when it airs on Friday, October 27th, at 5 pm on KDQN FM 92.1. Otis then spoke to the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting. Otis talked about the current state of the Razorback football team, the basketball team, and the baseball team. He then answered many questions from those in attendance. Pictured with Otis (center) is Bunyard Broadcasting's Jacob Bunyard (left) and Jay Bunyard (right).
De Queen First Assembly Fall Fest
Deidra Reeves (left) and Jerry Minchew (right) stopped by your #1 Country Studios earlier Wednesday morning, October 18th, to talk about the upcoming Fall Fest on Sunday, October 22nd. The event will start with worship at 10:30 AM. The church wants to invite everyone to wear their favorite camo and join them for Fall Fest after service until 2:00 PM. There will be walking tacos, inflatables, candy, and so much more! For more information, please contact the church office at 870-584-3435.
Arkansas Economic Development Commission
Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Executive Director Clint O'Neal spoke to the De Queen Rotary Club at their weekly meeting on Monday afternoon, October 16th. Clint talked about the history of AEDC dating back to the date chartered in 1955 as well as his personal history in getting involved in economic development. He said his goal as a former teacher is to help young people gain experience between their education and real world experience. He then discussed how to grow the Arkansas economy through AEDC's mission statement and his personal goals. Clint wrapped up by answering questions such as internships, business incentives, and opportunities to grow through housing. To read more about Clint's talk at Rotary, visit the Local News Page.
Former Arkansas Razorback And NBA Superstar Speaks at Horatio Schools
Horatio School District was honored to have former NBA Superstar Sidney Moncrief as a guest speaker on Tuesday, October 10th. Sidney Moncrief, native of Arkansas, started his basketball career as a shooting and point guard for the Arkansas Razorbacks basketball team from 1975 to 1979. Moncrief was named Southwest Conference MVP and went on to help lead the Razorbacks to the NCAA tournament and ultimately to the NCAA Final Four in 1978. Moncrief is known for his remarkable career in the NBA, primarily with the Milwaukee Bucks, solidifying him as one of the league's all-time “greats.” But beyond his athletic achievements, Sidney has dedicated himself to community service and advocacy. He is known for his passion for bringing people together, fostering unity, and promoting positive change.
Trunk Or Treat
Alicia Rivas and her daughter Leigha came in your #1 Country Studios on Wednesday, October 11th, to talk about the 5th Annual Trunk or Treat. The Trunk or Treat will be held on Tuesday, October 31st, at the De Queen Sports Plex from 5-7 pm. Alicia is still trying to get candy for the event. She has 7,000 lbs, and she said the goal is 30,000. You can drop off candy at the following locations: Cutting Room, Baker's, Conquest Industries (Horatio), Leopard Nutrition, and Meraki Hair Studio.
Governor Sarah Sanders Visits De Queen
The First Female Governor of Arkansas Sarah Sanders visited your #1 Country Studios on Monday, October 9th. She was in De Queen to award Beau McCastlain as Arkansas Teacher of the Year as well as interview with KDQN's CEO Jay Bunyard. Thank you Governor for listening and visiting to your favorite radio station!
Denim and Diamonds Event
Jamie Smith (left) and Veronica Ozura (right) with the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce stopped by your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, October 10th, to talk about the upcoming Denim & Diamonds Event on Saturday, October 14th, starting at 6 pm. The event will take place at the El Ray Ranch west of town. Tickets are on sale for $65 before the event at the Parsonage behind the De Queen Church of Christ, your #1 Country Studios, Bailey Discount, and the Sevier County Housing Authority. Tickets will also be sold by the Chamber at the entrance for $75. You must be 21 and up to attend the event. Refreshments and a meal will be served. You can also purchase T-shirts. Jamie also talked about the eclipse glasses for sale for the upcoming partial eclipse on Saturday, October 14th, as well as the full eclipse on April 8th, 2024. Glasses will be for sale at your #1 Country Studios, Baileys and the De Queen Rotary Club. Jamie and Veronica also discussed some upcoming events held by the Chamber such as the Christmas Parade.
De Queen Rotary Club Centennial Banquet
The De Queen Rotary Club held their Centennial Banquet on Monday night, October 9th, at the De Queen High School Cafeteria. The UA Cossatot Student Ambassadors served the club members refreshments and dinner. President Greg Revels started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a song. ZZ Kamruddin then introduced Greg as current president and named the past presidents followed by the Rotary District Governors. District Governor Emil Woerner then awarded the club for their 100th anniversary. Sevier County Medical Center CEO Lori House was also awarded as a Paul Harris Fellow. KDQN 92.1 CEO Jay Bunyard was named in the Paul Harris Society. ZZ Kamruddin then introduced the Paul Harris Fellows (pictured) as well as named the benefactors in Rotary. To read more about the Rotary Centennial Banquet, visit the Local News Page.
Beau McCastlain Named Arkansas Teacher of the Year
De Queen Public Schools hosted a special visitor Monday afternoon to honor one of its teachers as the top educator in Arkansas for 2023. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and other state officials personally presented Beau McCastlain with an award honoring him as the 2023-2024 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. McCastlain edged out three other finalists to earn the award as the state’s top educator of the year. McCastlain serves as the communications director and DQTV instructor for De Queen High School. The award was presented during a surprise ceremony hosted by the school district Monday afternoon. To read more about Beau being named Arkansas Teacher of the Year, visit our Local News Page.