Hempstead Hall was the perfect venue for the large Razorback-loving crowd in attendance for the annual Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Banquet. The event provides the opportunity to gather as a community and shine the light on area organizations, businesses, and individuals who represent the best of our city and county.
As guests arrived and were seated, they enjoyed a delicious meal of Mexican favorites provided by Amigo Juan’s Mexican Restaurant. Both owners, Juan and his wife Lulu, were on hand for the event and made sure everyone was satisfied.
The evening began with the presentation of our nation’s colors by Scout Troop 5, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of the National Anthem, and lastly a prayer by Maurice Henry.
The featured guest speaker, Former Arkansas Razorback Football Coach Houston Dale Nutt, was introduced, but not before the entire crowd was led in a loud rendition of “Calling the Hogs”, which got the everyone in the proper mood for his entertaining speech. He mentioned several former Razorback players who competed under him who were also in attendance including Hope’s own David Johnson. Over the course of his career, Houston Nutt coached 20 All-Americans, and 175 All-SEC selections. Nutt also ranks as the second-winningest coach in the University of Arkansas, behind only the legendary Frank Broyles.
The Young Leadership Award went to Emma Cooley, a young businesswoman who was inspired by the work of last year’s Young Leadership winner, Haley Rae Bane of “HR Sweets” who has blazed a trail of her own locally as a kitchen expert. Cooley has found her niche in delivering “Leggo” toys to many in hospitals and has also included cozy blankets to patients to help brighten their day.
The Nonprofit of the Year was awarded to the Hope Rotary Club. Their efforts include supporting the community and tirelessly meeting the needs of many. From helping local families, assisting in community events, or providing resources to those in need.
The Business of the Year was Becky Williams and Ivan Smith Furniture. She was recognized for her tireless efforts within the community, serving on the ROCOH Board of Directors, among other outside roles of which many go unnoticed. She was noted as a person who made Hope a place where others would want to live and most of all, the lasting friendships she has created throughout the community.
The Educator of the Year was awarded to a very popular role model, “Captain” Ronald Smead, Principal of Spring Hill High School. He was described as a supporter, mentor and built strong relationships with his students.
The Citizen of the Year was Hope Mayor and local longtime auto shop owner/operator Don Still. Presented by 2025 Citizens of the Year Ben and Jamie Pafford. The first thing Still wanted to do was thank his wife Betsy for being supportive of him and his various roles he took on over his long career as not only a reputable mechanic and boss, but very active in his church and serving on many boards and committees that helped plan the direction of Hope and its citizens.
