Zac Dunlap Band at Stand Up For America
Zac Dunlap working the crowd at Stand Up For America!
Identity Crisis at Stand Up For America in Nashville
Stand Up For America Fest underway at the Nashville City Park as area band Identity Crisis kicks things off!
Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught
Arkansas had one of the most productive, if not most productive, legislative sessions in the country with regard to addressing occupational regulations. Occupational regulations are licensures, certifications, or registrations required for workers in certain occupations. A few examples of licensed occupations include real estate agents, cosmetologists, and veterinarians.
The success during the legislative session is partly due to Arkansas participating in the 15-state learning consortium through the U.S. Department of Labor (supported by the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL), National Governors Association for Best Practices (NGA), and The Council of State Governments (CSG)) and further addressing occupational licensure through the Governor’s Red Tape Reduction Working Group.
For the 2019 legislative session, 41 bills were passed into law that were related to occupational licensing, certification, and registration. One of the new laws (Act 250) ensures that an individual does not lose a license due to a defaulted or delinquent student loan. Another law (Act 820) provides automatic licensure for active duty members, veterans and spouses of military members if they were practicing in another state.
Those forty-one acts can be categorized into specific areas of concern that were discussed as part of the Red Tape Reduction Working Group and the related, Occupational Licensing Advisory Group, including:
(1) Removing Barriers to entry and having the least restrictive regulations in place.
(2) Addressing impacted populations; e.g., military spouses/ veterans/ military members, those with criminal records, and immigrants.
(3) Focusing on licensing board composition.
(4) Engaging in reciprocity agreements & multi-state compacts.
(5) Various administrative and organizational improvements.
One of the acts passed was Act 600 which creates annual legislative reviews of occupational authorizations and entities. This will help to ensure that we continue implementing the least restrictive form of authorization while protecting consumers.
In June, the Occupational Licensing Review Subcommittee of Legislative Council met to draft rules and begin establishing a timeline of occupations to be reviewed this year. The occupational authorizations and the occupational entities will be divided into six groups. The committee will review one group each year. The subcommittee will meet again September 19. You can review the materials and watch the proceedings at www.arkleg.state.ar.us.
Midnight Hurricanes performing tonight for Let Freedom Ring at the De Queen Sportsplex before the fireworks celebration at 9:30
Midnight Hurricanes performing tonight for Let Freedom Ring at the De Queen Sportsplex before the fireworks celebration at 9:30
Jug Hill Annie of Ft Smith, AR performance at Let Freedom Ring at the De Queen Sportsplex
Jug Hill Annie of Ft Smith, AR performance at Let Freedom Ring at the De Queen Sportsplex
Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin on Independence Day
Lockesburg Blue Darter Trade Days September 27-28
4-H’ers Compete at District 4-H O’Rama at Lake Hamilton
Thirteen Sevier County 4-H’ers competed against 4-H’ers from across the state at the District 4-H O’Rama at Lake Hamilton High School on June 18. To qualify for district level, they had to compete at the local County 4-H O’Rama.
The winners in the Senior Division (ages 14-19) were as follows: Amber Morris placed 1st in Health, Marcus Rosson placed 1st in Bait Casting & Sports Fishing, Hunter Frachiseur placed 6th in Gun Safety, Aubrey Seymour placed 1st in Human Development, James Bartek placed 4th in Bicycle, Ethan Wolcott placed 2nd in Public Speaking.
All 1st – 7th place senior winners are eligible to compete and represent Sevier County at the State 4-H O’Rama to be held at the University of Arkansas Campus in Fayetteville in July.
Junior Division (ages 9-13) winners were as follows: Jacob Seymour placed 4th in Health, Landon Frachiseur placed 3rd in Wildlife, Brayden Frachiseur placed 5th in Bait Casting & Sports Fishing and Raegan Frachiseur placed 1st in Fashion Revue-Purchased/Casual. Others that competed in the Junior Division were Gavin Carver, Evin Frachiseur, and Pace Frachiseur.
Sevier County 4-H'ers at Cossatot Reefs State Park
Over 50 4-H’ers attended 4-H Cloverbud/Jr. Day Camp at Cossatot Reefs State Park on June 10. They had four programs on the agenda and then enjoyed a hot dog lunch.
On June 10, Sevier County 4-H held its annual Cloverbud & Junior Day Camp at Cossatot Reefs State Park. This was the largest group so far, with over 50 4-H’ers in attendance. They had four programs on the agenda and then enjoyed a hot dog lunch at the park.
Harrell Sherwood from the Arkansas Forestry Department first taught the 4-H’ers how to identify trees based on the shape of the leaves, the fruit or seeds, and the bark. The 4-H’ers got to participate in a fun game to see which team could identify the most trees the quickest.
Robin Stacy from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) showed the 4-H’ers how to use two sticks to “Fiddle for Worms”. They first scouted out good locations with compost to do their “fiddling”. Each kid was given two sticks, the long one to place in the ground and a short one to rub on the long stick to cause vibrations, which will make the earthworms come to the top of the ground. Each kid found worms, some small and some really large ones. They got a little excited when the worms started popping up!
Jason Kaufman from Arkansas Farm Bureau taught the kids where their food comes from. He gave the percentage and types of foods that are raised in Arkansas. By the time he was through, everyone was hungry!
Casey Hardaway from Arkansas Game and Fish Commission brought three “friends” with her, an alligator, slider turtle, and a king snake. The 4-H’ers got to touch the reptiles, if they wanted to. Some of them even wanted the snake around their neck! Ms. Hardaway explained the state laws on harming wildlife and explained that snakes usually will not harm you unless you mess with them or accidently step on them. Everybody had a great time!
If you would like more information about 4-H, please contact the Sevier County Extension Office at 870-584-3013 or visit us on UA Cossatot Campus in the Adams Building.
Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught
Arkansas is home to more than 600,000 acres of lakes and more than 90,000 miles of rivers, streams, and creeks. As this is a popular time of the year for Arkansans to enjoy the waterways, we wanted to highlight boating safety in the state.
Last year, Arkansas saw a 9% decrease in boating accidents and a 36% decrease in the number of boaters who died from boating accidents. However, there were 60 reported boating accidents in 2018 which resulted in 29 injuries that required medical attention and seven fatalities. Of those seven fatalities, six drowned. According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, three of those six were not wearing a life vest and the other three were either improperly wearing their life vest or their vest was in poor condition and not functioning properly.
In order to ensure your safety, we wanted to remind you of some of the laws passed over the years regarding boating safety so that we can continue to reduce the amount of property damage and to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities associated with boating. Make sure to keep in mind that:
• Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986 must have successfully completed an approved Arkansas Game and Fish Boating Education course and carry proof while operating a motorboat or sailboat on Arkansas water.
• Every boat must have at least one U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket per person on-board. Children 12 and under must be wearing their life jacket at all times. Also, no matter the age, every person aboard a personal watercraft must be wearing an approved life vest
•To operate a personal watercraft, a person must be 16 year or older. Children aged 12-15 must be under the direct supervision of a person of at least 18 years old. Children 12 and under must be under the direct supervision of a person of at least 21 years.
For more information on boating safety please visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at www.agfc.com
Sevier County Fair School Saturday, July 13th
Do you remember your first fair?
The first American agricultural fair dates back to the early 1800’s with the Berkshire County Fair in Massachusetts, with a goal of creating a venue for farmers to come together, share information, and educate each other. Early fairs focused on the practical aspects of home farm life, such as preserving food and making butter and cheese. As modern times evolved in the 1900’s, “table luxury” categories such as cakes started appearing at fairs, indicating how rural life no longer needed to focus on just the basic necessities. Today, more than 3,000 state and regional fairs take place annually.
Sevier County held their first fair in 1937! This year will be the 82nd Annual Sevier County Fair and Rodeo. The Sevier County Arkansas Extension Homemakers Clubs (AEHC) and the Sevier County Fair Board would like to offer you an opportunity to participate in this community-wide annual event.
Join us on Saturday, July 13, at the Adams Building on UA Cossatot Campus at 10:00 A.M. as the AEHC hosts their first Sevier County Fair School. Refreshments will be served. Please call the Sevier County Extension office at 870-584-3013 and let us know you are coming. You will have an opportunity to learn about registering and displaying exhibits in the Education Building and about helping judges as they judge the items. There will be experienced volunteers to educate the public and to explain the opportunities available to show off your creativity and talent and to compete for a championship ribbon. They will also be answering any questions you may have.
Those of you that have a heart for canning, quilting, crafting, sewing, crocheting, cut flowers, potted plants, photography, oil painting, sketching, baking, and many other categories, Sevier County Fair has a place waiting for you!
Start on the path to becoming involved in your local community. Encourage a friend to join you in the Sevier County Fair School. Together, let’s make Sevier County a fun place!
De Queen Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Summer Movie Series
De Queen Sevier County Chamber of Commerce announces the Summer Movie Series beginning this Saturday at De Queen City Pool.
Daniel Martinez and Callie Miller with the DQ/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce were on the air Friday morning at 8:35 to talk about the Summer Movie Series.
De Queen / Sevier County Chamber of Commerce News Brief
JULY 1st is Opening Day for Bi-Annual Mobile Food Vendors Applications
On July 1st, the City of De Queen will accept applications for mobile food vendors for fifteen bi-annual permits. The bi-annual permits are available ($100 for 6 months) for vendors to set up on privately-owned property (not owned by the vendor) within the city. Event permits are also available ($50 for 3-days). All vendors applicants must meet state and city requirements and the mobile truck/trailer must pass inspection at the fire station. Applications and copies of the ordinance are available at De Queen City Hall or at the Chamber of Commerce. For questions, call 870-642-3445 or 870-584-3225.
Rural Business Conference for Southwest Arkansas
July 11th, from 8:30 am - 2:00 pm, the Rural Business Conference will be hosted at UA Cossatot. This is a 'must attend' for all of our chamber member business owners, and please share with any entrepreneurs, business students and graduates. The power-packed agenda starts with a breakfast with local lenders and representatives from organizations such as the United States Small Business Administration, USDA Business and Industry Loan Guarantee Program, and Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC). A sample of the topics includes discussion of small business technical assistance resources, and public and private procurement. Several speakers will also be introduced during the luncheon.
*Note by Suzanne ~ "When I took the position of Executive Director last year and asked businesses what was most needed from the Chamber of Commerce, the overwhelming reply was for more focus on business needs and resources to help grow the local economy. By working with strategic partners, we are able to offer opportunities for the business community, and this conference is one that has the focus and the tools!"
Click here: Rural Business Conference Registration
Tourism Magazine Deadline Mid-July
For Photos and Ads
The Sevier County Tourism Magazine will be published this fall. It will be full of photographs showing off Sevier County's places to go and things to do, along with stories highlighting festivals, points of interest, Sevier County history, local contact information, and fun curiosities. With tourism now a growing component of our local economy, the magazine will be looking at widespread distribution at welcome and visitor centers in-state and out, hotels, motels, cabins, tourist destinations, accomodations, restaurants, and retailers, etc.
If you are interested in placing an ad or submitting a photo in the magazine and have questions, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 870-584-3225.For the magazine ad rates and contact information, click the link below.
Click here: Tourism Magazine Ad Rates
Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Interviews
BRE Interviews have started! A big THANK YOU to the businesses that have already completed the interview or are on the schedule.
This information is vital to the health of our businesses, which directly affects the local economy AND the quality of our local communities. The Chamber of Commerce cannot help your business if we do not know the needs, and we are working hard to connect with you so your business can stay here, grow here and keep jobs here!
Interviews are conducted at your place of business (unless another location is requested), all information is kept confidential and anonymous, and the interview takes approximately one hour. For businesses in retail and accommodations, the interview data is kept anonymous and is compiled by CREATE Bridges to identify and implement strategies to grow the local tourism economy. We need all businesses to participate in BRE, call 870-584-3225 to get on the schedule!
Zac & Hannah Dunlap of the Zac Dunlap Band Live in the Ed 88 Studio
The Zac Dunlap Band will be at the Stand Up for America Patriotic Celebration in Nashville on July 6th! They were in the Ed 88 Studios of Nashville on Wednesday for a live video stream.
4-H Teens Recently Attend Teen Leader Conference
The Arkansas 4-H Teen Leader Conference was held in Little Rock June 11 – 14. From all across the state, teens travel to attend this once a year opportunity. We had five teens representing our Sevier County 4-H clubs this year. Amber Morris, Aubrey Seymour, Kaydee Cowling, Ethan Wolcott, and Alec Frachiseur all attended.
While at the conference, teens learned different ways of becoming a better leader for their community. For instance, this year’s theme was “Be the Spark”. Youth learned how to empower other young potential leaders. One skill that each teen really was impressed with was the 5 C’s to giving a speech. The 5 C’s, Character, Competence, Culture, Chemistry, and Caring, is a skill they can use for the rest of their lives as they continue to grow with their leadership skills.
De Queen Lions Club Year-End Meeting Tuesday Night
De Queen Lions Club had their year-end banquet Tuesday night to induct new board members and hand out Lions Club awards after dinner. De Queen Lions Club in the 2018-19 year gave $10,386.97 in community donations.
Past President Jeff Brown handed the gavel over to incoming president Bryan Blackwood
President Bryan Blackwood, 1st VP-Scott Simmons, 2nd VP-Helga Buenrostro, 3rd VP-Ben Renfrow, and Secretary/Treasurer-Noel Bard were all sworn in as officers for the new term.
Heather Brown, Eduardo Abril, Jeff Holcombe, Paul Lewis and Lee Hammond(not pictured) were all sworn in as board members.
Bryan Blackwood received honors for Lion of the Year
Jeff Holcombe was stamped "Instigator of the Year" by the Lions Club
Megan Blanton was honored at the banquet with a plaque for being the 1st ever '3rd generation Lion member' in the De Queen camp. Kevin Williamson presented it.
Gary Jones was honored at Tuesday night's banquet for serving in the Lions Club with perfect attendance for 53 years in De Queen.
Lighthouse Co-Ed Softball Tournament July 4th in Lockesburg City Park
Flash Flood Warning for the Area Until 11:00 Tonight
UAC Colt Bolt 5K Glow Run
UA Cossatot’s Colt Bolt 5K Glow Run was Saturday night at the Lockesburg City Park