Arkansas Governor's Scholastic Day
2025 DAR Good Citizen Award Winners
Members and guests of the Mine Creek- Paraclifta Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution met last week to honor six graduating seniors from area school districts. Elizabeth Wilson Overton, Chapter Regent, presented each student a DAR Good Citizen Certificate and Pin, gift bag, and a Chapter Scholarship in the amount of $100. The DAR Good Citizens Award is a way to recognize outstanding young people who exhibit qualities of good citizenship in their homes, schools, and communities. Students are selected by teachers at each school district based on individual contributions to the school, personal character and achievement. Each DAR Good Citizen Award winner is given the opportunity to participate in a Scholarship Contest intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship in students. The program is open to all high school seniors enrolled in public or private schools accredited and in good standing with their state board of education. Students are not required to be US citizens. Three students submitted an essay this year. Gracie K. Wolcott of De Queen High School was the DAR Good Citizen Essay Chapter Award winner and was presented with a Certificate of Award and an additional $25 for her essay. Ma’Hongani Nicole Trotter of Mineral Springs High School also submitted an essay and was awarded a Certificate of Award for her participation. The other graduates presented with the DAR Good Citizen Award and Chapter Scholarship were Konnor D. Bailey of Horatio High School and Samuel Brady Ernest of Dierks High School. Nashville High School Student Blakely Reich was not present but will be given his award later.
De Queen Rotary Academic Awards
The De Queen Rotary Club presented students at the De Queen High School academic awards for being the top student in their respective core classes on Wednesday, April 16th, in the De Queen High School Auditorium. Winners of the awards are as follows: Marely Cuevas (English 10-Sims), Rikki Cain (Pre AP English 10), Ellie Morphew (English 11), Noemi Hernandez (English 12), Christian Ramirez (Geometry), Kyleigh Faulkenberry (Algebra II), Bryan Mendez (AP Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry), Ashley Hernandez (AP Statistics), Altin Kight (AP Calculus), Esmeralda Rojo Sanjuan (College Algebra), Caden Lindly (College Trigonometry), Jasmine Loaeza (Biology), Tristan Marrufo (Chemistry), Tessa Herrera (Pre AP Biology), Hailey Hernandez (US History), Lizbeth Bravo (World History), Brandon Marrufo (Spanish I), Miguel Ahumada (Spanish II), Elaine Tovar (Spanish III), Myrka Venegas (Spanish IV), and Keri Staggs (Physics).
Fiesta Fest 2025
Madelyn Jones, Foundation and Advancement Director for University of Arkansas Cossatot, visited the KDQN Studios on Wednesday, April 16th, to share exciting news about the upcoming Fiesta Fest Event. Fiesta Fest is returning on Saturday, May 3rd, as a free, family-friendly celebration of local cultures and a fundraiser for students who don't qualify for Pell Grants. This year's festival boasts returning events and exciting new additions, all expanding across several blocks near city hall. Fiesta Fest's primary purpose is raising scholarship funds for students ineligible for federal financial aid. Sponsorships, vendor registrations, and the Arkansas Arts Council grant are crucial funding sources. While vendors will be present, the event itself is free for attendees. The festival features a diverse range of activities, including:
Live wrestling (1:00 PM), Marshallese cultural dancers (12:30 PM & 6:00 PM), community talent show (3:30 PM) as well as new activities: Dog show (2:00 PM), awards and scholarship presentation (5:00 PM), concert by Easy Band (7:00-9:00 PM), and a beer garden (with wristbands required for purchase; Zuniga's Liquor and Tres Agaves providing alcohol).
Art Initiative: A community coloring sheet contest resulted in a coloring book giveaway for children. The winning design will be displayed at the event. Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are still available (contact Madelyn Jones at mjones@cccua.edu or visit www.fiestafest.org).
Rotary Crystal Award
The Rotary Crystal Award has been presented annually to the outstanding senior female athlete at De Queen High School since 2000. At Monday’s noon meeting of the club, Rotarian Tammy Huddleston presented the award for the 2024-2025 school year to two student-athletes, twin sisters, Shalyn and Jessie Lyle. The daughters of Maianne and Coach Bret Burgess, Shalyn and Jessie led the Lady Leopards basketball team to a sparkling 35 and 1 record capped with the Class 4A State Championship in Hot Springs last month. Both Shalyn and Jessie were awarded the following honors this season: All-State, All-State Tournament Team, All-Conference, and an All-Star Game nomination. Shalyn was named the All-State Tournament Most Valuable Player after the 62-54 win over Pulaski Academy when she scored 11 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and recorded three steals. In the thrilling 60-53 overtime win over Nashville in the Regional Tournament finals at Monticello, Jessie scored a team-high 27 points, including seven three-pointers. Shalyn and Jessie also excel in the classroom with 4.0 grade point averages. They’re members of National Honor Society and on the honor roll. Both ladies have volunteered with the Junior Auxiliary organization helping out the Breakfast with Santa event, book swaps, Halloween Trick or Treat, and other childrens activities. Both Shalyn and Jessie have also volunteered their time with the R.V. Heat organization by working weekend basketball tournaments and assisting with free kids basketball camps. Both Shalyn and Jessie have been recruited by Arkansas Tech University in Russellville where they’ll continue their basketball playing careers with the Golden Suns after graduating from De Queen High School next month. While Jessie is undecided on a college major, Shalyn plans to earn a degree in occupation and physical therapy with a special emphasis on pediatrics.
Rotary Student of the Month
Arturo Quintana was named Rotary Student of the Month at the Club's weekly meeting on Monday, April 14th. Arturo has attended De Queen Schools since 8th grade. He is a member of FBLA, Spanish Club, Student Council, Interact, Track & Field, Cross Country and Fire Marshal. He has earned numerous awards and accomplishments. His hobbies include baking, cooking, photography, running, listening to music, and painting. His future plans are to attend CCCUA for 2 years and then transfer to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and major in Obstetrics/Gynecology. He attends Saint Barbara Catholic Church. Arturo's parents are Laura and Jorge Quintana. Pictured with Arturo (left) is Rotary President Michael Collins (right).
Rotary Student of the Month
Perry Nickerson was named Rotary Student of the Month at the Club's Weekly Meeting on Monday, April 14th. Perry has attended De Queen Schools since Kindergarten. She is a member of National Honor Society and Lady Leopards Softball. She made all-conference 3 times and is a 3 time honor roll student. She has also been awarded a softball scholarship at Rich Mountain. Her hobbies include baking, cooking, photography, running, listening to music, and painting. Perry plans to major in Radiology. She attends De Queen First Baptist Church. Her parents are Chad and Tami Nickerson. Pictured with Perry (left) is Rotary President Michael Collins (right).
Golden Easter Egg #2 Found
Lauren Dirreen of Wickes found the 2nd Golden Easter Egg on Thursday, April 10th. She came by the station to pick up her $250 check. The egg was hidden under a trunk of a tree behind Lovewell Farm Supplies. There is just one Golden Easter Egg left, so make sure to pick up your clue sheets and tune in to your #1 Country Studios next week to receive the clues to find the final Golden Easter Egg.
SWEPCO Speaks at Rotary
New Member Induction
Golden Easter Egg #1 Found
Douglas (pictured) and Shirley Ruth of De Queen found the first Golden Easter Egg. The egg was located on Johnson Bridge Road. Douglas came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Monday morning, April 7th, to claim the prize of $250. There are still 2 Golden Easter Eggs left to be found. Make sure to pick up your clue sheets in tune into your #1 Country Studios this week to get the clues on the 2nd Golden Easter Egg. Pictured with Douglas is Bunyard Broadcasting's Carolyn Maurer (right).
Rotary Focuses on Weyerhaueser Foundation
At the March 31 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Weyerhaeuser Inventory Forester at Broken Bow Amanda Mangum explained opportunities available through the Company’s Corporate Giving Fund. The program is open each year for grant applications from February through September. Locally, the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to counties where the company operates and owns land across Arkansas. Although the budget is limited, Weyerhaeuser seeks to partner with organizations helping to advance the quality of life across rural Arkansas in seven focus areas. The focus areas include: affordable housing, education and youth development, environmental stewardship, human services, civic and cultural growth, workforce development, and inclusion. Mangum said that most grants are between $1,000 and $5,000, but it depends on the project and the budget available each year. Although the process is highly competitive with a lot of applications received annually from all across the state, Mangum pointed out that the goal is to choose from the highest need and highest impact within the seven areas of focus. Mangum also highlighted the new THRIVE program where Weyerhaeuser will invest $1 million in each of five different communities between now and 2030. As part of this $5 million investment, the company will work with innovative partners – including businesses, nonprofits, and governments – to further support these communities through grants and other types of funding and local engagement. To be eligible for a Weyerhaeuser grant, applicants must be a 501c(3) nonprofit like a school or a municipality. For more information, go to the Weyerhaeuser website and click the Company Giving Fund link or contact Corporate Giving Manager Katie Hooker of De Queen. Mangum was introduced by Rotarian Jay Bunyard, who arranged the program.
Debbie Akin Discusses Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention at Rotary
At the March 24 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, owner Debbie Akin presented a program on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Micah Mental Health Awareness, Inc. is a Christian-based organization that was formed to educate the public about mental health issues and combats the stigma associated with mental illness. Micah 6:8 hosts Mental Health First Aid training on a monthly basis. Funds raised through Micah 6:8 are used to assist the local adult community in connecting with the resources available to them, including counseling services. Funding for the 501C3 organization is raised through grants, proceeds from the Micah 6:8 coffee shop, and local fund-raising efforts like a 5K run held annually in October. Akin outlined a list of values that are key in the function of Micah Mental Health Awareness, Inc. which includes compassion, hope, empathy, community, and faith. Micah 6:8 hosts a regular event for widows and widowers as well as a popular bible class Wednesdays at lunch. Memberships are also available in the Micah 6:8 Coffee Club. Members enjoy a free coffee and pastry per month. The cost to join is $20 per month, $55 per quarter, or an annual $200 membership. All proceeds go toward providing mental health awareness training and to provide other mental health services and counseling. For more information about mental health awareness and suicide prevention, call Micah 6:8 at 870-584-3115.
Rumble for a Cause: Body Slams & Heartwarming Hands
Cossatot Volunteer Fire Department Membership Drive & Fish Fry
The Cossatot Volunteer Fire Department will host their Annual Membership Drive & Fish Fry on Saturday, March 29th, from 5 pm to whenever sold out. You can pay your $40 membership dues at the fish fry and get up to 3 plates. Meal plate includes fish, hushpuppies/fries, coleslaw, pinto beans, beverage, and dessert. Cost is $40 per household/911 address (for your membership) or $10 per plate. Any/all donations will be accepted. There will be live entertainment and a live auction. Please contact either Ashley Johnson at 870-784-1360 or Wanda Stover at 870-784-4347 if you are able to bring a dessert. If you are unable to attend the fish fry, you can mail your membership dues to the following address (Cossatot VFD, 857 Hwy 24 East, De Queen, AR 71832). Joey Shaver (left), Wanda (center) and Ray Stover (right) came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Friday morning, March 21st, to talk about the event.
De Queen High School Girls Basketball Wins Championship
Some members of the De Queen Leopard Lady Basketball team visited your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, March 18th, to talk about their recent road to winning the 4A State Championship. Pictured left to right are the twins Jessie and Shalyn Lyle as well as Emma Chambers. The girls ended the year with a 62-54 victory over Pulaski Academy. For their winning efforts, the team has been invited to the State Capitol by DeAnn Vaught.
Office of Emergency Services of Rotary
At the March 17 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, Sevier County Office of Emergency Services Management Coordinator Matt Webb discussed his role and outlined future plans and opportunities. When Webb assumed his role in emergency services in early 2024, his first task was to prepare for the April Total Solar Eclipse. Although the first responders were ready, the anticipated crowds didn’t come to Sevier County. The clouds cleared and everyone here enjoyed the natural phenomenon. Future plans for the Office of Emergency Services include a countywide extrication class with the “Jaws for Life” equipment. Webb hopes to obtain grants to upgrade communications equipment around the county from analog to digital and to explore AWIN radio access for better statewide communications. With two major highways and two railroads in the county, Webb plans a full-scale exercise in the near future for law enforcement officials and first responders to deal with a staged hazardous materials accident. The event will be well publicized ahead of time so that residents will be anticipating the exercise. Webb encouraged Rotarians to sign up for the free Code Red service. You can find a link at www.kdqn.net as well as on most of the city websites. Code Red will call and/or text your cell phone to warn of potentially dangerous weather conditions. Finally, Webb hopes to find a grant to expand weather sirens to serve residents in the county. Currently, De Queen has four sirens. Lockesburg and Horatio have two. Ben Lomond and Gillham have one. Each siren covers only about a one-mile radius. Webb plans to conduct tests once a month on a Friday. Webb was introduced by Rotarian Bill Lee, who arranged the program.
DHS Quiz Bowl Team
De Queen Lady Leopards Basketball Send Off
The De Queen Lady Leopards basketball team was sent off for their state championship basketball game in Hot Springs against Pulaski Academy earlier Friday morning, March 14th, with the intersection starting at TJ's. Toney and Greg will have the exciting game play by play action beginning at 11:45 on KDQN 92.1 FM for anyone wanting to tune in.
Horatio High School Band Concert Results
Ashdown New Superintendent
The Ashdown School Board has voted to hire Mr. Robert Poole as the next superintendent for Ashdown Public Schools. He will officially assume his role on July 1, 2025. Mr. Poole brings a wealth of experience to Ashdown, with 15 years as a superintendent and 25 years in education. Since 2010, he has served as the superintendent for Prescott School District. His career in education also includes roles as an elementary assistant principal, federal programs director, and teacher of physical education, health, and driver’s education. The community is invited to a Meet and Greet with Mr. Poole on Friday, March 21, from 2-4 p.m. at the Ashdown Public Schools Administration Building, located at 751 Rankin Street.
Horatio Schools New Superintendent
4-H Day at the Capital
Sevier County 4-H members participated in 4-H Day at the Capitol, where they met legislators, learned about the legislative process, and shared how they are making a difference in their communities through 4-H. They were among the 500 4-H members from 54 of Arkansas’ 75 counties who participated in the event held every other year when the Arkansas Legislature is in session. The statewide gathering is also a chance for 4-H to showcase its impact on a large scale. The Sevier County delegation included 4-H members John Moe, Chip Stamps, Evan Wolcott, Max Rosson, Wade Melton, Kambree Haarmeyer, Leighton Frachiseur, Caselyn Van Voast, Braylee Reynolds, Margaret Moe, and Raegan Frachiseur along with Rex Hering and Kim Frachiseur. To learn more about 4-H, contact Kimberly Frachiseur at the Sevier County Extension office at 870-584-3013.
Rotary Hears About Fiber Network Engineering Program at UA Cossatot
At the March 10 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, University of Arkansas-Cossatot instructor Marty Allen described a new Fiber Network Engineer program that prepares certified network engineers for employment. The 15-week program, that features free tuition for students through a grant from the State Broadband Office of the Arkansas Department of Commerce, will launch on Monday, April 14th, and continue through Monday, July 28th. Space in this first class is limited to ten, and five students have already signed up for the initial offering. The course will be offered on the Lockesburg campus. After this initial pilot program, courses will be offered starting in August and in January each school year. Funding has been received to support the course for a four-year period. Upon completion of the course, students will receive a certification. Allen predicts that students who complete the design and installation training can start to work earning $50,000 per year. After hands-on and virtual training, Allen says the students will also gain skills in writing resumes, job interviews, as well as certification tests. With funding for the Fiber Network Engineer program provided by the state, free tuition is available. There are also free supportive services, such as gas cards, available. Also, at the completion of the course, students may keep their tools valued at close to $1,000. Prospective students must be 18 years of age, have a valid drivers license, and possess basic computer skills. For more information about the Fiber Network Engineer program, call the college at 870-584-4471. Pictured with Marty (right) is UA Cossatot's Director of Public Services and Workforce Development Tammy Coleman (left).
Rotary Student of the Month
De Queen Student Awarded Bronze Scholarship
De Queen High School Spring Coaches
At the March 3 De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, the club heard about the spring sports season now underway at De Queen High School with previews of the boys and girls track squads, baseball, softball, as well as girls and boys soccer. Drew Dykes says the senior high track teams have eight meets scheduled this spring beginning with a trip to Prescott on March 6. The De Queen track squads were both conference runners-up in 2024, and Coach Dykes believes that the Lady Leopards have a shot to win the league title this year. Baseball Coach Ethan Crocker has seven of his nine starters returning from a team that advanced to the regional tournament last year. The fields, located behind De Queen High School, have a new concession stand as well as more comfortable seatback chairs and stadium seating. De Queen will host the regional baseball and softball tournaments in May. Softball coach Chad Lites used the word “excitement” to describe his team. The Lady Leopards return all but one starter and Coach Lites described his girls as “great people”. The softball team opens up April 10 in Ashdown. Girls soccer coach Estiven Garcia thanked Rotary for the support the club gives student athletes at De Queen High School. After fielding a young team a year ago, Coach Garcia returns all but one starter. Despite dropping a 4 to 1 decision to Class 6A Fort Smith Northside on February 28, Coach Garcia was pleased with how his girls were better prepared physically this year. He hopes the Lady Leopards can advance to the final four in the state in Class 4A. Finally, Coach Stephen Sloan, proud owner of seven state championship rings, gave a preview of the Leopards soccer squad. The boys soccer team started out with 90 players. 60 boys made it through preseason drills. However, only 40 can earn a spot on the travel squad. The Leopards made it to the state semifinals in 2024. In a 2 to 1 loss to Class 6A Fort Smith Northside in a benefit game on February 28, Coach Sloan played five freshmen significant minutes. So, the future of De Queen soccer is bright as the Leopards just need more playing experience. Pictured left to right are Michael Collins, Stephen Sloan, Chad Lites, Estiven Garcia, Ethan Crocker, and Drew Dykes.
Chamber Banquet
The Sevier County Chamber of Commerce will host the 2025 Chamber Banquet on Thursday, February 27th. The theme is Playing to Win. Games include board games, video games, and family friendly games. Doors open at 5:30, and a silent auction will occur shortly afterwards. A meal consisting of teriyaki thighs, mashed potatoes, green beans, and triple flan for dessert. There will also be a live auction and award ceremony during the banquet. The Chamber will also give awards for best table designs. Individual tickets are still available, but you better book them soon if you want to attend. Pictured are Michael Collins (left) and Fernando Balderas (right) who spoke about the event in your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, February 25th.
The CALL
Kara Brackett (pictured) came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Tuesday morning, February 25th, about the CALL. The CALL will have an online information meeting on Thursday, March 6th, at 7 pm. The CALL is a local foster care program used to help kids find foster parents though it's not just limited to that. You can also volunteer in other ways such as donating freezer meals. For more information, you can contact Kara Brackett and visit their local Facebook page.
Mayor's Proclamation
Rotary Hears About De Queen FFA
At the February 24th De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, the club heard about the progress of the new agriculture-animal science facility and farm under construction on the De Queen High School campus as well as an update on the local FFA chapter. Superintendent Jason Sanders, who arranged the program, opened the meeting by talking about the new Ag Building under construction. The School District expects the final cost of the new project to be between $800,000 and $1 million. A $30,000 state grant for the facility will be used for start-up costs. Construction is expected to be completed prior to the start of the 2025-26 school year. FFA Instructor Morgan Frachiseur (right), who has been with the De Queen district for 18 years, said that he’s seen lots of changes during that time. Frachiseur introduced Chapter Vice-President Kyle Williamson (left) and Chapter Sentinel Kix Lee (center). Williamson outlined the local chapter’s FFA Week activities from February 17 through 22. This included reading books to Parkhill preschool students, a slide show presentation for junior high and middle school students, assisting with the Fair Association’s drawdown dinner, as well as a couple of events that will have to be rescheduled due to inclement weather. Williamson focused on the Career Development Events associated with FFA. He said the local chapter sent two buses full of students to recent competitions held at Nevada County High School. The De Queen FFA, which attracts over 300 students per year, entered four-member teams in approximately twelve different competitions. Lee, who recently took home first place honors in the Creed speaking competition in Magnolia, focused on the Leadership Development Events associated with FFA. He impressively cited the FFA Creed for the Rotarians. The local De Queen FFA chapter is busy preparing for spring competitions at the district and state levels.
Kinetic Spreads Kindness and Connection in Lockesburg for National Random Acts of Kindness Day
Representatives from Kinetic, an Arkansas-headquartered residential internet service provider, hosted a “Kinetic Kindness” event with the Lockesburg community on Monday, February 17th, to celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Day. Partnering with Zeb’s Lunch Box, Kinetic surprised community members with free ice cream to share the power of connection through kindness. Nearly 20 residents came out to partake in the Kinetic Kindness experience. The event is a part of a special milestone celebration for the Lockesburg community, as they reach official Gig-Ready Community status, meaning more than 75% of residents and businesses now have access to Kinetic’s Next Generation Gigabit Internet. Attendees were able to receive more information about how residents and businesses can take advantage of the new services and how Kinetic’s expanded high-speed fiber internet access will impact and enhance everyday connections for the community. Kinetic remains dedicated to empowering communities with cutting-edge broadband solutions while fostering kindness and connection. For more information on Kinetic’s services and Gig-Ready Communities, visit www.windstream.com/gig-ready.
Sevier County Economic Development
Mayor Jeff Brown (left) and Veronica Ozura (right) came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Thursday morning, February 13th, to talk about the recent award won by Sevier County. The award was for Trend Setter of the Year also known as Diversity and Inclusion. Members attended a conference in Little Rock where they only handed out 6-7 awards total where Sevier County was awarded a prestigious honor. Members attended seminars over a wide range of topics including zoning and budgeting. Thousands of members across Arkansas attended this conference a few weeks ago. Veronica and Mayor also talked about landing a grant for Fiesta Fest which will be held on Saturday, May 3rd.
De Queen First Assembly Wild Game Cookoff
De Queen First Assembly Ironmen Ministries is hosting the 12th Annual Wild Game Cook-Off on Saturday, February 22nd, at 5 pm. Please bring entries no later than 4:30 pm. Late entries will not be accepted. The address for the church is 1440 W. Collin Raye Dr. in De Queen, AR 71832. Pictured are Mike (left) and Kyle (right) Willis who came in to speak about the event on the radio earlier Wednesday morning, February 12th.
Rotary Student of the Month
Sophie Hunt was named the Rotary Student of the Month at their weekly meeting on Monday, February 10th. Sophie has attended De Queen School District since 1st Grade. She made it to State Golf Championship in 2024. She is in Drama Club and participated in “The Great North Pole Bake Off” where she played the lead of Mrs. Claus. She is also the Executive Producer of DQTV, where she had the opportunity to participate in several competitions. Sophie currently has 3 hours of college classes. She is a member of First United Methodist Church of De Queen. Her future plans are to attend the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and major in Communications and minor in Marketing. Sophie's parents are Leslie Branson and Dylan Hunt. Her grandparents are Mike and Lorena Branson. Sophie (left ) is pictured with Rotary President Michael Collins.
Super Bowl Squares Winner
Lewis Wester (left) came in your #1 Country Studios earlier Monday morning, February 10th, to pick up his winnings for Super Bowl Squares. He was awarded a $500 check by Bunyard Broadcasting's Jacob Bunyard (right). Thanks to all our sponsors for making this year's event a success! Make sure to tune in the next few weeks for some giveaways!
Rotary Hears Update from Hospital CEO
At the February 3rd De Queen Rotary Club meeting at Micah 6:8, the club heard a promising progress report from Stacy Dowdy (left), the C.E.O. at Sevier County Medical Center which opened its doors on January 23, 2023. This past year, the local hospital served a total 5,627 patients in the E.R., 429 Inpatients, and 320 Observation patients. While the numbers were a slight decline in the E.R. and in the Observation areas compared to the year before, the number of Inpatients increased by a whopping 64%. Dowdy reported that Sevier County Medical Center had a total of 15,283 encounters in 2024, which is an increase of 85% utilization. The local facility saw a big 63% increase in the Outpatient Therapy Department due to the needs and demands of therapy services in our community. Another area that has helped the hospital financially is the implementation of the Swing Bed Program. It’s for individuals that need a little more care and therapy services to ensure they are strong enough to go home. Typically, Swing Bed patients stay an additional 7-14 days, and can stay up to 21 days. Dowdy was excited to announce that the hospital employed its first provider, Dr. Jeffrey Hamby, on February 1st. The hospital C.E.O. shared with Rotarians several goals for 2025. They include: employing our own providers, growing the Therapy Department, and growing the Swing Bed program. Dowdy also hopes to open the west wing for patients in 2025. The current census is five-to-seven patients per day. There are seven rooms on one wing and eight rooms on the other. Adding Dr. Hamby should mean opening that second wing. Another goal for the coming year is to achieve a Level Four trauma center designation meaning extra funds for the E.R. Finally, Dowdy will continue to hone and craft processes in the Revenue Department to ensure that the hospital is capturing all costs and reimbursements that are possible. The local hospital currently has 88 full-time employees. Once a 501C3 status is obtained, it will allow the hospital to apply for more grants. For more information on how you can help your local hospital, contact a member of the Sevier County Medical Center Foundation, which is actively raising funds to help purchase needed health-related equipment. Dowdy was introduced by Rotarian Veronica Ozura (right).