On this week's Sevier County Chamber chat, president Callie Miller tells us the Tri Lakes Big Bass Festival has been re-scheduled because of high waters for Saturday, July 17, and announces this Thursday's Chamber Board meeting will take place at UA Cossatot.
VIDEO: Greg Ray and Angie Walker Discuss Sevier County Senior Citizens' Appreciation Day
Sevier County Judge Greg Ray and Angie Walker visited today to give us an update on the upcoming Sevier County Senior Citizens' Appreciation Day.
VIDEO: Callie Miller of the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce at Ed 88 Studios Tuesday
On this week's Chamber Chat with Callie Miller, we discuss the three big upcoming events in Sevier County:
1. Litter Cleanup
2. Tri Lakes Big Bass Festival
3. Senior Citizens' Appreciation Day
Parade Participants Donate Winnings to Local Group in Need
DE QUEEN--Two local groups who participated in the De Queen Tour of Lights earlier this month made the holidays brighter for those in need this season as they opted to donate prize money earned in the float contest.
The De Queen Tour of Lights was a reverse style parade held Saturday December 5th at Herman Dierks Park in place of the annual event traditionally set for the square downtown. Local groups were asked to set up a display that would be evaluated by judges and the community was encouraged to view the floats from the safety their vehicles to avoid the spread of COVID-19. The top 3 winners of each category receive prize money from the local chamber of commerce in the amount of $100 for 1st place, $75 for 2nd and $50 for 3rd.
The folks of Kindred at Home - Home Health and Community Care services were contacted by The De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce this week about receiving their winnings after their grinch-themed set-up earned them a first place spot in the commercial category. Home Health Specialist Debra Morse had other plans for the money as she requested their $100 prize be donated to a local charity of the chamber’s choice instead. An additional parade participant, who asked to remain anonymous, requested that their $75 prize be donated to a local group in need as well. The two organizations who chose to give back to the De Queen community are not affiliated with each other and did not discuss the idea of donating in advance, proving two random acts of kindness were carried out by separate groups who unknowingly had one common goal of helping those in need.
As many area “shop with a cop” and “Angel tree” programs have already been completed for the year, the Chamber Board of Directors selected CASA of The Ouachita Region to become the recipient of these funds, which will now be used to help children during the holidays. CASA is an acronym for “Court Appointed Special Advocates” and their mission is to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children within the court system. Cynthia Martin and Espe Mosqueda graciously accepted the donation on the organization’s behalf and reported that support like this is “always appreciated.”
The funds will go towards clothing, gifts, and items for local children in the foster care system within Sevier, Polk and Montgomery Counties.
As the busy holiday season continues and the cold winter months roll on, the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce would like to express thanks to the groups who have chosen to donate their prize money to help local kids this time of year.
CASA of The Ouachita Region is always in need of volunteers and those interested in supporting the group can call 479-243-9277. They can also be reached by email at casaouachita71953@gmail.com
Annual Sevier County Banquet and Awards Ceremony to be Rescheduled Amid COVID-19
NEWS RELEASE
De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Contact: 870-584-3225
December 17th, 2020 DQchamber@gmail.com
DE QUEEN, AR- Due to COVID-19 safety concerns, The De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced that the annual awards banquet slated for Spring 2021 is being postponed with a new date to be announced at a later time.
Held in February each year, the chamber banquet typically takes place at De Queen High School with tables reserved for members and guests, a meal served, a silent auction, and an awards presentation for recognized organizations, volunteers and businesses. In years past the ceremony has also included performances by The De Queen High School Jazz Band, a live emcee and serving provided by The De Queen High School cross country team.
The decision to postpone the banquet came during a specially called Board of Directors meeting held this week on Tuesday, December 15th. With COVID case reports continuing to rise in Sevier County and the surrounding areas, the Chamber Board has agreed to prioritize the safety of the community by postponing the event until large gatherings can be held without concerns of COVID-19 exposure.
Though the event will be pushed back on the calendar, banquet attendees can still expect a fun theme, table decorating contest, silent auction, meal and awards to be distributed as usual. The 2021 Banquet theme will also be announced as the rescheduled date draws closer.
Questions can be referred to 870-584-3225, DQchamber@gmail.com or message the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
As always, The Chamber board of Directors appreciates the support of all members and community representatives. More information about the annual membership banquet will be released as details become available.
De Queen/Sevier County
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
P.O. Box 67 - 315 W. Stilwell Ave.
De Queen, Arkansas 71832
870-584-3225
De Queen Christmas Parade 2020
Callie Miller and Daniel Martinez of the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce discuss this year’s Christmas Parade in De Queen.
VIDEO: William Cheatham of the Arkansas DOT
William Cheatham of the Arkansas DOT addressed the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce on Thursday concerning road projects in Sevier County.