Honor Awards celebrate community greats
An evening filled with emotion, cheers, jeers & a few tears
By DON WILBURN
donaldfwilburn@gmail.com
On a chilly December 17th evening, the Civic Auditorium in West Memphis was electri_ed with a palpable sense of community, pride, and celebration. The venue was packed to capacity as Mayor Marco McClendon presided over the highly anticipated 2024 Honors Awards Ceremony to an atmosphere of anticipation and warmth as attendees, both honorees and spectators, gathered to celebrate a tapestry of excellence across diverse _elds.
The event began with a dynamic introduction by hosts Stan Bell, Jeremy Soto, and Dequanda Smith, whose rapport and charm immediately captivated the audience. Following their welcome, Pastor McCool of River Church led a moving prayer, reminding everyone of the power of faith and gratitude. The Academies of West Memphis Choir delivered a soul-stirring rendition of the National Anthem, their voices blending in harmony to underscore the spirit of the evening.
As the ceremony progressed, the spotlight turned to those who have tirelessly worked to make West Memphis a better place. The city’s Clerk and City Council were recognized as “West Memphis Treasures” for their instrumental roles in driving progress.
The Community Service Awards were among the _rst honors of the evening. Lorraine Mohammed, James Holt, and Tracy Catt were commended for their unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. Their heartfelt speeches reected a shared vision of giving back to the community that shaped them.
A vibrant performance by Kyia B added a touch of musical magic to the evening, setting the stage for Mayor McClendon’s grand entrance.
See AWARDS, page A2
Nick Coulter (center) said upon winning his award for City Family Member of the Year that he thanked the people of West Memphis for allowing him to do what he loves.
Photos by Don Wilburn
Mayor McClendon poses for a quick photo with the legendary Shirley Brown.
Ms. Minnis was celebrated as Teacher of the Millennia, her lifelong dedication to shaping young minds earning her a standing ovation.
From page A1
The Mayor, known for his dynamic leadership, took the podium to deliver a rousing speech. His message, encapsulated in the mantra “We win together,” resonated deeply with the audience. “Unity is the foundation of everything we’ve achieved and everything we aim to build,” he declared. “When we come together, no challenge is insurmountable.”
The honors continued with a tribute to public service legends. The Honorable Joyce Ferguson, former Mayor of West Memphis in the 1970s, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Ferguson’s legacy as a trailblazer was evident, her contributions to the city’s development still deeply appreciated.
Keith Ingram was named Public Servant of the Year, recognized for his steadfast dedication to civic leadership. The Seacrest Family, known for their generosity and impact, received the Ness Seacrest Humanitarian Award, furthering their legacy of philanthropy. If it has been any colder that evening, one might have even seen snow flurries from the tears shed after their speech.
Youth and community awards followed, showcasing the city’s bright future. Taylor Jackson, a shining example of young leadership, was named Youth of the Year. Nick Coulter, recognized as City Family Member of the Year, said of receiving the award “Being named City Family member of theYear is such an incredible honor. I can’t thank my family, the Mayor and the people of this city enough for trusting me to do what I love every single day.”
Volunteer Service Award winner Steve Jones was lauded for his countless hours of selfless work, while the Athletics and Non-Profit Excellence segment brought the crowd to their feet. Athletes of the Year, Sonny Weems, Tawanna Smith, and Mrs. Sherry Levy, were celebrated for their dedication to sports and community development. Families in Transition, named Non-Profit of the Year, was praised for their tireless work in supporting vulnerable families.
The Business Excellence Awards highlighted the economic drivers of West Memphis. Serenia Curtis Construction and Michael Rushing Quality Flooring were jointly named Entrepreneurs of the Year. Robert Bosch Tool Corp earned the Business Community Impact Award, and Southland Casino and Hotel took home the Business Excellence Award, a testament to their contributions to the local economy.
Education leaders were also honored, with Wonder Legacy crowned School of the Year. Richland Elementary’s Kristi Rice received the Principal of the Year title, while Ms. Minnis was celebrated as Teacher of the Millennia, her lifelong dedication to shaping young minds earning her a standing ovation.
Faith leaders were not forgotten. First Baptist Missouri, led by Pastor Josh Hall, was named Community Church of theYear, while Old St. Paul Church and Pastor Anthony King of Faith International were recognized for their transformative impact on their congregations. Pastor King, named Pastor of theYear, emphasized the role of faith in fostering unity and hope.
The healthcare sector was celebrated with Dr. Susan Ward Jones and the East Arkansas Family Health Center taking top honors. Dr. Jones, known for her compassionate care and innovative approach, was named Physician of the Year, drawing heartfelt applause.
As the night reached its crescendo, tributes flowed for Citizen of the Year Billy Joe Hayes and special guests Larry Dodson, Cicely Wilborn, and Joyce Turner Glaspie, who were lauded for their contributions to the arts and civic life. Shirley Brown, the recipient of the Musical Legend Award, delivered a performance that truly brought down the house. Her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence left the audience spellbound, a fitting close to an evening that celebrated the best of West Memphis.
