FBLA News Page

Arkansas
Business

Leader

Here are some of the top stories from the latest issue of the Arkansas Business Leader!

ARKANSAS IN VIRGINIA

On November 13, 292 excited FBLAers and their advisers boarded 5 chartered buses at 2 p.m. headed for Virginia to attend the Southern Region National Fall Leadership Conference. Once again Arkansas FBLAers had an opportunity to travel across the country, meet new friends, hear outstanding speakers, attend interesting workshops, and test their knowledge of FBLA in the Battle of the States.

After a trip planned to take 22 hours, the Arkansas delegation traveling from Little Rock finally arrived in Virginia Beach 30 hours later due to several delays. Upon arrival at the Holiday Inn Sunspree, the delegation, with spirits undaunted, checked into their rooms and dressed for the first general session. The keynote speaker, Mr. Gary Zelesky, who has over 15 years experience working with youth and teachers, was both inspiring and informative.

Among the many workshops presented for students and advisers were "Economics of Life," "Memory Magic," "Money Isn't Everything, but It's Right Up There With Oxygen," "Podium Poise," "Speechcraft," and "A Star is Born--Let's Make it Healthy Through Project HELP!"

On Saturday morning students had a chance to visit the FBLA/PBL marketplace and view exhibits. During the afternoon the infamous Battle of the States was held. Arkansas was represented by Anna Smith, Nettleton; Mindi Hill, El Dorado; and Nicole Moore, Pangburn, who weathered the fierce competition. After the final round with Georgia, Arkansas was victorious winning first place!

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR PRESIDENT . . .

FBLA Members and Advisers:

I am honored to be your State President this year. If I can ever help you in any way, please feel free to ask. First of all, I would like to thank Arkansas FBLA for all your help and support during my campaign for Southern Region Vice President. Running for a national office is something that one cannot do alone. Even though my bid was unsuccessful, this was a learning experience that I will never forget. Thank you so much.

Each of the state officers attended the first Institute for Leaders and are prepared to better meet the needs of Arkansas FBLA. Through the many national winners, Arkansas was well represented on stage at the NLC.

I hope you are all prepared for a very exciting year in FBLA. District and state officers worked hard to plan a fantastic program of work at Ferndale this past summer. I encourage each member, chapter, and district to help Arkansas fulfill our goals. Each district has already completed part of the program of work by conducting its District Fall Leadership Conference. I encourage each chapter to participate in the "Go for the Gold" and "Go for the Silver" projects as well as other national programs and partnerships. American Enterprise Day, Linking Leaders, Connecting Chapters, and FBLA-PBL Week are a few examples of adopted national programs. The Investment Challenge, Johnson and Wales University, National Businessperson of the Year, and Actions Speak are a few of the national partnerships. A complete list of partnerships can be found in your chapter planning guide. I also encourage you to participate in each of the State Service Projects. They are the March of Dimes, the Arkansas Children's Hospital, the Gift of Life, and the Leukemia Society.

Let's make this the best year ever in Arkansas FBLA. If I, or any other state officer, can be of any assistance to you, please don't hesitate to ask.

Amy Whitaker, State President

IN PRAISE OF AGE By Amy Whitaker, State President

In Praise of Age is a National FBLA-PBL program that promotes understanding, appreciation, and respect with regard to senior citizens. FBLA members can learn from the senior citizens in the community by listening to their past experiences while gaining the satisfaction of helping others. In Praise of Age is a wonderful opportunity for the FBLA members and the senior citizens to work together. For helpful project suggestions, contact your local Area Agency on Aging.

ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL By Alisha Baker, District I State Vice President

Arkansas Children's Hospital is a pediatric care unit that helps to improve the lives of children in need. The hospital depends on contributions from organizations such as ours to fund these expenses.

Arkansas FBLA has raised over $150,000 to benefit the children of Arkansas and beyond throughout the years. Arkansas Children's Hospital takes care of little children and older ones as well. Its burn unit is the only one throughout a widespread area treating people of all ages. Consider conducting a fundraising project to help improve the lives of these children.

GOING FOR THE GOLD By Mimi Mangrum, District II State Vice President

One of the challenges of the National Office is the Go For The Gold and Gold Key Incentive Program. Chapters who submit documents and ten different activities to the National Office are on the road for "Go for the Gold." You may ask yourself where do I find the information? A brochure with an entry form is included in the Chapter Planning Packet. If you are successful in going for the gold, you will receive a Certificate of Recognition and your principal will receive a letter of commendation from national FBLA. Your adviser will receive an adviser lapel pin, a gold key chapter award ribbon, and your name will be included in the Go For the Gold Honor Roll. In the past, Arkansas has led the nation in Gold Key Chapters. Go for the Gold is a great challenge!

TOURETTE SYNDROME By Amanda Stevens, District III State Vice President

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by tics--involuntary, rapid, sudden movements or vocalizations that occur repeatedly. The cause has not been established, although current research presents considerable evidence that the disorder stems from the abnormal metabolism of at least one brain chemical called dopamine. The most common first symptom is a facial tic such as rapidly blinking eyes or twitching of the mouth. However, involuntary sounds, such as throat clearing and sniffing or tics of the limbs, may be the initial signs. For more information contact: Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc., 42-40 Bell Blvd., Bayside, New York 11361-2820.

FBLA AND COMPETITION By Jarrod Yates, District IV State Vice President

Competition is an important aspect in the life of many students. Whether competing in the classroom, on the field, or in school-sponsored events, students have the opportunity to strengthen and develop skills. FBLA's competitive spirit provides a variety of challenges that can help students prepare for the future. Students have the opportunity to enhance their character, leadership skills, and workplace readiness skills through competition. Developing the skills to compete in FBLA activities is a long and difficult process. Students select competitions that are most suited for their specific interests and personality. Students will compete either individually or as a group. Through diligent study and practice students will develop a variety of skills to prepare for the world of work.

Although competition is one facet of the FBLA program, there are many components that help students become well-rounded and prepared for the world of work. Community service, for example, benefits FBLA members as well as those receiving the help. Holding an office or serving on a committee helps members learn to organize and use parliamentary procedure. In the competitive and technological world of today, everyone must be able to compete on all levels of the playing field. Being an active part of FBLA competition helps members prepare for the future with confidence.

DO YOU HAVE A LOCAL CHAPTER HOME PAGE?

By Todd Regan Strawn, District V State Vice President

We say that "technology is the wave of tomorrow." Wait a minute! If we referred to tomorrow yesterday, then tomorrow is finally today, right? Anyway, with that in mind, let us look at the greatest technological innovation of the decade. This innovation is, of course, the Internet. The easiest way of publicizing an individual or organization using Internet is by writing and hosting an Internet home page. The page can be simple, extremely complex, or anywhere in between. Nonetheless, a home page has one purpose and that is to inform the world about an individual or organization. So if it is so easy, why doesn't your FBLA chapter have its own home page?

The Arkansas FBLA Web Page is currently under development, which we will host at www.arfbla.org. All of us at the State Office are encouraging local chapters to write or develop their own FBLA home pages. Arkansas has long been a leader in new ideas and programs so it is only right that Arkansas should lead the way in use of the Internet. After writing a home page, you must host it. This means that you must save the home page and all associated files on a computer continuously connected to the Internet so other people all over the world will connect to it and read it. It is quite possible that your school already has an Internet server capable of hosting your home page. Contact the Internet or systems administrator at your school or me, and we can make your chapter world renowned with your FBLA chapter home page.

MEMBERSHIP MADNESS By Kimberly Cox, District VI State Vice President

Last year the National Officers decided to create an incentive for members called "Membership Madness." Members are the key to FBLA, without them we could accomplish nothing. Even though we concentrate on membership recruitment at the beginning of each new year, you can always recruit members any day of the year! "Member Madness" recognizes members who recruit five or more new members and recognizes these star recruiters in the Tomorrow's Business Leader and at the State and National Leadership Conferences.

Local chapters may also set up their own form of recognition and reward, such as pizza parties, discounts on dues, etc. To receive national recognition, please send recruiters' names by fax to the Membership Department at (703) 758-0749 or by e-mail at membship@fbla.org. Thanks to a special partnership with R&R Educational Resources, a Seattle-based magazine service, members in all four divisions of FBLA-PBL will receive a free one-year subscription to one of several popular magazines. FBLA members can choose from Inc., Entrepreneur, Business Start-Ups, and Working Woman. These magazines are available so that you can stay competitive in the job market or keep up to date on current events. For more information visit www.fbla-pbl.org. Remember . . . "Without you FBLA can do NOTHING, with you FBLA can do ANYTHING!"

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!! By Shane Phelps, District VII State Vice President

Ten years ago this past October, a life saving agency was started that has touched many lives in countless ways. Arkansas FBLA believes in this cause and has helped to raise money and awareness for this agency. Have you guessed the name of this agency? That's right! I'm talking about ARORA (Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency). ARORA celebrated its tenth anniversary in October, and Arkansas FBLA helped commemorate the event by holding an Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Day. It was a great success, but ARORA still needs your help. Every day thousands of people all over Arkansas and America are waiting for organ transplants. Many will receive one; some will not. By helping sponsor this state service project, you will help to save lives. For those already involved in promoting ARORA, keep up the good work; for those who aren't, please reconsider. It will be well worth all your time and energy.

SCHOLARSHIPS/PARTNERSHIPS By Hannah Dolle, District VIII State Vice President

Scholarships are one of the many benefits of being in FBLA. Johnson and Wales University and the Discover Card offer FBLA members scholarships. Another lesser known scholarship is the Bob Kieler Entrepreneurial Scholarship. In addition, Arkansas has its own Mildred Brading and Mary Alice Elam Scholarships, as well as the Heather Stocks Memorial Scholarship. Operation Enterprise and the Presidential Classroom are two of FBLA's more widely known partnership programs. Operation Enterprise is a ten-day course that offers students a chance to learn about business and leadership from today's top-level businessmen and women. The Presidential Classroom is a week long course held in Washington, D.C. Students participate in workshops and tour national landmarks and world famous museums. Get involved and take advantage of these opportunities.

FBLA FUNDRAISING By Michelle Moore, State Secretary

Fundraising is an essential part of FBLA. Some of the FBLA fundraisers are Otis Spunkmeyer, Champion's Challenge, World's Finest Chocolates, Tom Wat and many others. By working with these companies, members learn about money management, marketing, teamwork, and goal setting.

Funds raised are used for FBLA activities such as registration and travel expenses for district, state, and national events. They are also used to support several worthwhile charities including the March of Dimes, the Arkansas Children's Hospital, ARORA, the Leukemia Society, and local community service projects.

MARCH OF DIMES By TaShauna Moore, State Treasurer

March of Dimes is both a state and a national project adopted by Arkansas FBLA. The March of Dimes project was adopted 26 years ago by the National FBLA-PBL, and it has been a success ever since. Arkansas FBLA-PBL has consistently been ranked in the top three nationally. FBLA local chapters are constantly raising money to support project HELP (Health Education Leads to Progress), and they also promote awareness of the March of Dimes mission against birth defects.

March of Dimes recognizes all hard working chapters by presenting them with a certificate or a plaque for their dedication. The three chapters raising the most money per capita and the three chapters completing the most creative educational activities will be recognized at the 1998 SLC. If you want to learn more about March of Dimes contact me at 548 Lincoln Court, Monticello, AR 71655 or at (870) 460-0417. You can also contact the March of Dimes Headquarters at 204 Executive Court Suite 207, Little Rock, AR 72205.

LEUKEMIA SOCIETY PROJECT By Shannon Wiley, State Reporter

During the 1992-93 school year, the FBLA Executive Council endorsed a new state service project, the Leukemia Society.. Since that time, chapters around the state have organized various activities to support the Leukemia Society in its fight against this terrible disease.

Leukemia can strike anyone at any age, but it most often kills young people who never have a chance to fulfill their dreams and ambitions. Perhaps you, like me, know of someone who has leukemia or who has already died from it, but because of organizations like FBLA we come closer each day to finding a cure. Your chapter can help by participating in the traditional Leukemia Type-a-Thon held during National FBLA Week in February or by conducting a "Pasta for Pennies/Pennies for Patients" project. With the "Pasta for Pennies" project students bring pennies and spare change to theirclassrooms during a three-week period. The top fundraising classroom is awarded a spaghetti luncheon or a pizza party. Remember, all funds we raise benefit the research, patient aid, and community service programs of the Leukemia Society.

As "Tomorrow's Business Leaders," let's do all we can to make today better for those suffering from leukemia. For more information about this project contact Cheryl Reale at the Leukemia Society office in St. Louis, (800) 264-CURE, or Holly Jackson in Little Rock at (501) 224-4492.

CHAPTER PLANNING PACKET/COMMUNICATION

By Amanda Lane, State Parliamentarian

Imagine leaving your home in mid-summer hoping to go on the best vacation ever! Everything possible has been considered--you have made the hotel and dinner reservations, reserved tickets at all places of interest--literally you have planned out your events for every hour of your vacation. Then, you realize you have forgotten one thing--a map! What is your first reaction? I hope it is to locate a map as soon as possible so you can find the best route for a fun and effective trip.

In the exciting world of FBLA, the Chapter Planning packet is like a road map. It has important information about our program of work, scholarships, recruitment ideas, and awards. In it you will find all programs that are supported by your national and state FBLA along with posters and ideas promoting these activities. With this essential information, your chapter can get in tune with the state and national association, as well as be advised about upcoming events and important deadlines.

I encourage each of you to go to your adviser and ask to check out your Chapter Planning Packet. It has a wealth of valuable information needed to conduct all your chapter activities. By using this information wisely, you could help make a difference in your chapter. You can lead your chapter down the road to success!

ARKANSAS IN CALIFORNIA

From June 28-July 4, 175 Arkansas FBLA members and advisers joined more than 4,500 other members at the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California. President James Macauley from Oregon presided at the conference. This year's conference theme, "Spotlight On The Stars," reflected the locale of southern California. Conference highlights included Linetta Wilson, gold medalist at the 1996 Olympics, and John Kilcullen, CEO of IDG Books, who created the world famous "For Dummies" series of computer books. Mickey Mouse and this year's March of Dimes poster child made a special appearance. Other highlights included touring Universal Studios, Disneyland, and Hollywood.

Arkansas placed in 25 events and had 4 first place winners. They were Kayla Capps, Riverview, Business Law; Andrew Klenczar, Harrison, Computer Concepts; Arkansas Junior High Division, Largest State Chapter Membership; and Conway Junior High School, Largest Local Chapter--Middle Level. Ten schools received the Gold Seal Award of Merit. Arkansas was also proud to have many advisers recognized for their years of service. A complete listing of all national winners appeared in a special edition of the Arkansas Business Leader published in October for the SBEA conference and was also in your school's fall packet.

STATE OFFICERS

WORK AT SBEA

The Arkansas FBLA State Officer Team served as hosts and hostesses for the Southern Business Education Association's 71st Annual Convention held October 22-25 at the Excelsior Hotel in Little Rock. The convention theme was "SBEA--A Gem in the Making," an appropriate theme for a convention held in the only state where diamonds are found.

FBLA officers manned the FBLA booth in Governor's Hall of the Convention Center and welcomed delegates from all over the South. Displayed on the exhibit table were pamphlets and brochures promoting FBLA, the March of Dimes, ARORA, and other state and national service projects.

The "hit" of the booth was a video prepared by the FBLA state reporter, Shannon Wiley, and her adviser, Jane Wiley. The video, complete with a musical background, was produced at the Arkansas Educational Television Network by scanning over 225 photographs of Arkansas FBLA members from all over the state. A special edition of the Arkansas Business Leader was also published for the convention.

FERNDALE FIRST!

State and District Officers gathered at the Arkansas 4-H Center in Ferndale on May 27-29 for intensive training to prepare them for their new leadership positions. The officers participated in workshops focusing on our state and national projects, listened to guest speakers and practiced public speaking.

They participated in Executive Council Meetings, boundary breaking, a scavenger hunt, and recreational activities. In addition, they selected district and state uniforms. Most importantly, they developed complete programs of work for the districts and the state as a whole.

The traditional Candles on the Hill was an inspirational ending for the three days of working on projects and learning more about FBLA.

District News

DISTRICT I

By Josh McKee, Reporter

The District I Fall Conference was held on October 1 at Barnhill Arena at the University of Arkansas. Dean Doyle Williams welcomed members to the campus. We had record attendance at the conference, and heard speakers from the Arkansas Children's Hospital and ARORA.

The motivational address was given by Coach Nolan Richardson of the Razorbacks. The Houndstooth Clothing founder, Michael Baker, was the keynote speaker. Before leaving he gave several Houndstooth t-shirts to lucky members.

DISTRICT II

By Amy Whitaker, Reporter

District II held its annual Fall Leadership Conference at the Southwest Church of Christ on September 25. Approximately 1,400 students and advisers participated. Amanda Lane, State Parliamentarian, and Amy Whitaker, State President, brought greetings from the State Office.

After the business session , district and chapter officers participated in a balloon launch by ARORA. Crayton Sams, four-year-old heart recipient, released the first balloon. Officers participated in a leadership workshop by Darren Irby, a former national FBLA officer. Other chapter members and advisers took part in workshop presentations by Ms. Hettie Lou Martin, State FBLA Adviser, and Dr. Terry Roach, Business Graduate Programs Director at ASU. Ron Sheffield, keynote speaker from Little Rock, encouraged members to "stay on the yellow brick road."

The District II FBLA officers are Mimi Mangrum of Crowley's Ridge Academy, State Vice President; Bridget Pittman of Buffalo Island Central, Vice President; Sara Short of Riverview, Secretary; Josh Brooks of Weiner, Treasurer; Amy Whitaker of Brookland, Reporter; and Chelsea McCaghren of Nettleton, Parliamentarian. The District Coordinator is Ms. Bobbie Timmermann of Nettleton.

DISTRICT III

By Cliff Haynes, Reporter

The District III Fall Conference, held on October 7 at the El Dorado Municipal Auditorium, had as its theme, "Part of the Many, One of the Best!" Guests included Mike Duman, Mayor of El Dorado; John Gross, Superintendent of Parkers Chapel; and Mrs. Hettie Lou Martin, State Adviser.

Recognition and awards were presented to the Go for the Gold and Gold Seal chapters as well as those that participated in state service projects. Guest speaker Bret Brown entertained with magic and song encouraging members to believe in themselves. Junction City High School won the chapter scavenger hunt, and Parkers Chapel High School won the chapter spirit competition. Members learned about a variety of topics through skits performed by officers and members.

DISTRICT IV

By Elizabeth Fite, Reporter

District IV met at Henderson State University on October 22. There were 635 members, 35 advisers, 6 officers, and 13 guests attending the conference for a total of 689. District officers are Jarrod Yates, President from Prescott; Julie Pennington, Vice President from Magnet Cove; Michelle Moore, Secretary from Magnolia; Jonathan Elrod, Treasurer from Glen Rose; Elizabeth Fite, Reporter from Camden Fairview; and Teriyaki Calloway, Parliamentarian from Walker.

The program opened with the FBLA Pledge, Creed, and Emblem Ceremony. The Chapter Challenge allowed chapters and individuals to compete for cash prizes ranging from $5 to $25. Guest speakers were Mrs. Liz Tebbutt, Marketing Director from Arkansas Children's Hospital, and Keith Maddison from ARORA. Mrs. Tebbutt discussed the needs of the hospital, and Mr. Maddison introduced Brad Roberson, a heart transplant recipient. The keynote speaker was Dr. Janice Sjostrand. She allowed us to see the star within each of us. She also entertained by singing and accompanying herself on the keyboard. Otis Spunkmeyer provided cookies and muffins for conference refreshments, and District IV T-shirts were distributed.

DISTRICT V

By D. J. Durham, Reporter

The District V Fall Conference was held at Arkansas Tech University at Russellville on Friday, October 3,. There were 1,223 members, advisers, and guests present. District officers are Todd Strawn, State Vice President; Alex Chatman, Vice President; Alesha Hauser, Secretary; D. J. Durham, Reporter; Christy Tate, Treasurer; and Shannon Wiley, Parliamentarian. The guest speaker, Ms. Tiffany Pettus, motivated members "To Become A Star." The district balloon release ceremony sponsored by ARORA honored people who have given an organ so that others may live. A cover design contest was held to determine which school's design would be used on the cover of the District V Spring Leadership program. The Atkin's chapter won the contest. The competitive spirit was definitely alive when the members competed in the first annual Battle of the Chapters competition based on FBLA history and trivia. Holly Pratt of Riverview won first place this year.

District V is very proud of its members and chapters that placed at the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA, this past summer. Those chapters receiving the Gold Seal Award of Merit were: Cushman, Greenbrier, Guy-Perkins, and Vilonia. Gold Key Chapters were: Cushman, Greenbrier, and Vilonia. FBLA members that District V is very proud of are Kayla Capps of Riverview, who placed First in Business Law; Rachel Lott of Vilonia, who placed Fifth in Accounting I; and Kim Ferren of Riverview, who placed Fifth in Keyboarding Applications.

DISTRICT VI

By Amanda Cain, Reporter

District VI Fall Leadership Conference was held on October 17 at the John E. Miller Complex in Melbourne. The Conference was organized and led by the District VI officers: Kim Cox, State Vice President; Nickolas Deckard, Vice President; Stefanie Powell, Secretary; Ricky Collins, Treasurer; Amanda Cain, Reporter; and Curtis Hall, Parliamentarian. Over 450 FBLAers attended the conference, setting a record number.

Workshop presenters included Kathy Carter (Colors of Our Personality), the Bank of Salem, and the district officers. A highlight of the conference was a balloon release sponsored by ARORA. Ms. Kay Alvarez, representing ARORA, and several organ recipients, thanked FBLA during the first general session for its help with ARORA. Other special guests were Mrs. Hettie Lou Martin, State Adviser, and J. R. Bennett, former District VI State Vice President. The keynote speaker was Darren Irby, former national FBLA officer from District VI and former Red Cross Public Relations worker.

DISTRICT VII

Meet the District VII Officer Team: Shane Phelps, State Vice President; Emily Bailey, Vice President; Kelly Hinsley, Treasurer; Anna Plumlee, Secretary; and Stephen Smith, Parliamentarian. These officers put together a fantastic Fall Conference on October 17. The Conference was held at Quapaw Technical Institute and Garland County Community College in Hot Springs. The following workshops were presented by the officers: Campaign Strategies Made Easy, True Colors, Ins and Outs of the Internet, Shoot for the Stars--Leadership for Everyone, Get Fired Up FBLA, and Boundary Breaking. We also had workshops by Judy Lively from Dawson Cooperative on True Colors and Jan Langston from Horizon Sales on Dress for Success. We were lucky to have Tashauna Moore, State Treasurer, in attendance giving greetings from the state office and presenting a workshop. An ARORA balloon release was held in recognition of donor awareness. Guest Speaker, Duey Hatton, talked about enthusiasm and reaching for the stars to be successful.

DISTRICT VIII

By Jamie Ehenger, Reporter

The District VIII Fall Conference held at Sherwood Forest was attended by approximately 1,200. Mrs. Hettie Lou Martin, State Adviser, gave an update on "What's Happening at the State/National Level." Darren Irby, former state and national FBLA officer, discussed the FBLA-PBL Foundation. The keynote speaker was Ms. Stacy Freeman, Miss Arkansas, who entertained the group.

Scott Allen, Community Relations Coordinator for Children's Hospital, and Keith Maddison, ARORA Educational Specialist, were guest speakers. Other projects discussed included March of Dimes, Leukemia Society, and local service projects. Nick Keith from Kathryn Beich Candy used impersonations to promote fundraising for FBLA.

Hall, Lonoke, and McClellan were recognized for receiving Gold Seal Awards. Recognition was also given to Holly Grove and McClellan for receiving the Go for the Gold Award. Brandy Gray, McClellan, was recognized for receiving 5th place in the nation for Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure.

Chapter Presidents were recognized in the Parade of Presidents. Central Arkansas Christian received first place in the poster contest, Sylvan Hills won second place, and Lonoke won third place. Over 150 door prizes were donated by the District VIII schools and Kathryn Beich and Great American, Inc. At the end of the Conference, balloons were released in honor of ARORA's Awareness Day.

District VIII officers include Hannah Dolle, State Vice President, McClellan; Stephen Parker, Vice President, Lonoke; Travis Young, Secretary, Central Arkansas Christian; Marshall Jones, Treasurer, Sylvan Hills; Jamie Ehenger, Reporter, North Pulaski; John Goss, Parliamentarian, Lonoke. Mrs. Phyllis A. Smith, McClellan High School, is the District VIII Coordinator.

Chapter News

ALTUS-DENNING--Chapters officers are President, Alisha Baker; Vice President, Amanda Smith; Secretary, April Marble; Treasurer, Jennifer Marble; and Reporter, Shelly Ross. Fourteen students attended the fall conference in Fayetteville. Speakers were Nolan Richardson, Michael Baker, owner of Houndstooth Clothing, and representatives from ACH and ARORA. Officers participated in a balloon release sponsored by ARORA. The chapter has conducted Kathryn Beich fundraising. ASMS--Enthusiastic chapter members at Arkansas School for Math and Science have already conducted several activities including an ARORA Awareness Lunch and a Costume Dance. The members are proud of their pet project, the FBLA Dolphinshop. The Dolphinshop is a store managed and staffed by FBLA members that sells everything from pencils to toothpaste, as a service to the ASMS population. The store also provides practical business experience to the workers.

BALD KNOB--For the past three years Bald Knob has participated in the Noel Project, an effort by local people to help the less fortunate during Christmas. This project has helped students understand that Christmas is a time for sharing and giving. This year FBLA will be assisting a single parent with one boy who wants a bike and two girls who want a Barbie and a baby doll. Each child usually receives toys, socks, clothes, and other items. Participation is great, and members never hesitate in their generosity.

BARTON--The officers are President, Barrett Petty; Vice President, Renee' Cobson; Secretary, Brandi Hunter; Treasurer, Mitchell Fitts; Historian, Micheal Burchett; Reporter, LaRhonda Fulcher; and Parliamentarian, Nikki Schwantz. Following officer installation on October 1, the chapter had lunch with the adviser. On October 7, members attended the Fall Conference in El Dorado. Twenty-one members went to support Barrett Petty, our District III Vice President. Several members participated in a skit showing the incorrect way to go to a job interview. We also participated in the FBLA scavenger hunt. Barrett Petty, Renee' Cobson, and Mrs. Sims attended the NFLC in Virginia Beach.

BAY--The chapter has been busy working on membership enrollment, election of officers, and fundraising ideas. The chapter attended the District II Fall Conference in Jonesboro. The officers are Adam Brown, President; Justin Allen, Vice President; Nichole Quinn, Secretary; Jamie Thomas, Treasurer; Kari Simmons, Reporter; Andrea Quinn, Parliamentarian; Holly Hager, Historian; Matt Mink, Student Council Representative; and Kwinn Halfacre, Special Projects CEO. During October, FBLA sponsored a WonderWalk for the March of Dimes raising $2,144.22. The annual sale of Tom Wat resulted in orders for $4,826. Members have developed their Annual Program of Work to become a Gold Seal Chapter.

BROOKLAND--Officers are Amy Whitaker, President; Jake Goza, Vice-President; Elizabeth Hammett, Secretary; Rebecca Walker, Treasurer; Bryan Hook, Reporter; Janessa Morgan, Historian; and Brad Hook, Parliamentarian. Officers participated in the Adopt-A-Chapter project by installing the Brookland Jr. High officers. The chapter held a balloon launch on October 1 to kick off ARORA awareness month. Approximately 40 members attended the District II Fall Conference on September 25 at the Southwest Church of Christ. Ron Sheffield was the keynote speaker with his message, "Follow the Yellow Brick Road." Other activities include American Enterprise Day, NFLC, Arkansas Children's Hospital, and an FBLA booth for open house.

BROOKLAND JR. HIGH--On October 7 Brookland Jr. High held an installation ceremony conducted by the senior high officers. Greetings from state were brought by President Amy Whitaker. Ms. Evans, adviser, recognized last year's officers. At the closing, Principal Gene Goza, guests, and members enjoyed refreshments. The new officers are Andy Whitaker, President; Autumn Tubbs, Vice President; Laura Brock, Secretary; Brian Emison, Treasurer; Kendra Throgmartin, Reporter; Katrina Warren, Historian; and Jonathan Hill, Parliamentarian. Sheila Evans and Cindy Whitaker are the advisers. Committees have been selected to carry out activities for local, state, and national projects. Members are selling Kathryn Beich candy to support these projects.

BRUNO PYATT--With 30 new members and 21 returning members, we have an 82% increase in membership. Our officers are Kim Cox, President; Tiffany Harris, Allen Louis, and Andrea Hobbs, Vice Presidents; Tera Tabor, Secretary; Jimmy Ply, Treasurer; Misty Giles, Reporter; Charlie Richardson, Parliamentarian; and Gwen Keymer, Historian. Four local officers, Kim Cox, Tiffany Harris, Tera Tabor, and Charlie Richardson, and our adviser, Mrs. Shelli Jones attended the NLC in Anaheim. Each were graduates of the First Annual Institute for Leaders. Bruno-Pyatt FBLA hosted the District VI Fall Conference at the Ozark Campus in Melbourne with Kim Cox, District VI State VP presiding.

BUFFALO ISLAND CENTRAL JR.--With 54 members, chapter officers are Nicole Kirby, President, Patricia McFarlin, Vice President; Erin Willyerd, Secretary, Megan Gathright; Reporter; Kristen Bennett, Treasurer; Keri Hawkins, Historian; and Leslie Cobb, Parliamentarian. The Chapter participated in the ARORA Awareness Day October 1. Chapter members have completed a fundraising activity for Halloween and will sponsor the Dime Card Project November 3-10 along with the help of the BIC East Elementary children and the March of Dimes. Plans are being made for FBLA week activities in February and for the District II Spring Leadership Conference in May.

CLINTON--In June Clinton held a computer day camp for kindergarten through third grade. With over 40 kids, the camp was a success and enjoyed by kids and officers. At the beginning of the year, members welcomed back the teachers and students. All teachers received a bottle of teacher pills (M&Ms), and many students received their invitations to join FBLA. Banners and signs were made by officers and displayed in the halls. FBLA officers attended Southern Region Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach. Officer installation was held on Wednesday, September 18, with Mrs. Cherie Hall as installing official for our 72 members.

CONWAY--Conway now has two FBLA chapters. The Conway Senior High School Chapter consists of members from grades 11-12, while the High School Chapter consists of members from grades 9-10. At the first meeting of the Conway Senior High Chapter officers were installed and plans were made to attend the Fall Conference in Russellville. Thirty-one members and two advisers attended. At the conference members Rob Quinn and Kevin Kelly participated in the Battle of the Chapters. The Senior High chapter is participating in the Champion's Challenge. FBLAers of both campuses will soon join to hold a Rock-a-thon for the Arkansas Children's Hospital. Each member will take pledges for how long they can sit and rock. Our goal is to rock for five hours.

CUSHMAN--On October 13 an installation banquet was held to install new officers, Jennifer Dew, President; Crystal Franks, Vice President; Ryan Haley, Secretary/Treasurer; Susan Bennett, Reporter; Kristen Carlson, Historian; and Amber Edwards, Photographer. Our guest of honor, Mrs. Mary McGaha, was presented a plaque in appreciation of her years of service to the Cushman school, FBLA, and the community. The chapter took orders for carnations that were delivered during Homecoming. We are making plans to participate in Christmas Brings Hope, a project designed to give food to needy families during Christmas.

DARDANELLE--We began the year with a contribution to a local agency called "Sharing and Caring," an agency that helps those whose homes have been destroyed. We donated food, home furnishings, linens, baby formula, and bottled water. We are raising money to purchase a color copier for the Business Department. We have organized a "3-on-3 Hoopfest" to cover costs. We will tour a business in the fall and spring semesters and sponsor the high school's home page which is "under construction" at this time. Our adviser, Mrs. Sherri Campbell, is in her fifth year of sponsoring FBLA.

EAST POINSETT--The chapter has 27 members, and is working hard to "Go for the Gold!" During October our chapter participated in the ARORA Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Day by releasing balloons and distributing educational information. Activities for the March of Dimes and Arkansas Children's Hospital are being planned. The 1997-98 FBLA officers are: President, Jason Cooksey; Vice President, Jamie Johnson; Secretary, Danny Helms; Treasurer, Bradley Weathers; Reporter, Karen Laden; and Parliamentarian, Shayla Montgomery.

EL DORADO--The El Dorado chapter hosted the District III FBLA Fall Leadership Conference. A popular project this year is our Elementary Goodies program. FBLA members will bring articles of clothing and other items to donate to needy children in several elementary schools. Members will help with the Salvation Army "Dinner for the Homeless." During Halloween we gave members Halloween grab bags containing anything from a piece of candy to $20.

December will be a special month for El Dorado FBLA. We will be celebrating FBLA's 40th year at El Dorado High School with an anniversary party. Some members attended the NFLC in Virginia Beach, and many members are already preparing for competition at the Spring Leadership Conference in Pine Bluff.

FARMINGTON--During the membership drive in September, we recruited 110 members. We decided on fundraiser projects, community, and school service projects. As a school service project, we began a recycling program in November. We sat up a box in each classroom for paper disposal. The boxes are emptied every other Friday. We just finished a fundraiser selling jewelry and made $2,779.40. The profit will go to the March of Dimes and the Arkansas Children's Hospital. We will also sell balloons for Halloween and Valentines Day. Our chapter would like to develop an exchange program with other FBLA chapters. We think it would be good to visit other schools in our district and share ideas about FBLA, business classes, and the school as a whole.

FORREST CITY--Officers for the 1997-98 school year are President, Shantique Robinson; Vice President, Tamara Vanardo; Secretary, Steven Wright; Treasurer, Dresdian Gatlin; Reporter, Alesha Coleman; Parliamentarian, Kenya Hamlin; Historian, Edwina Mosby. We are conducting a March of Dimes fundraiser and selling Nestle-Beich candy. Each officer is captain of a team. The team selling the most will win a pizza party, and the highest seller will also get a prize. We have 65 members, and 33 attended the District VIII Fall Leadership Conference at Sherwood Forest. One of our members, Sara Harris, was crowned Miss Arkansas State Fair. We are very proud of her talents and accomplishments.

FORT SMITH--The officers met in August for a cookout at the home of their adviser. Those attending were Vicki Echols, Spencer Forsgren, Terri Turner, Kim Dejaeger, Sarah Sebo, Chris Daily, and Garett Withcer. The next officer meeting was a breakfast held at Calico County the first week of school. The first function was a doughnut/juice breakfast at 7:45 a.m. in the school cafeteria to kick off the membership drive. Installation of the new officers took place September 18 in the school cafeteria. At this meeting the candy fundraiser began. Southside is looking forward to the fall conference in Fayetteville.

GUY-PERKINS--The Guy-Perkins officers for 1997-98 are President, Samantha Glover; Senior Vice President, Alex Chatman; Junior Vice President, Latoya Criswell; Sophomore Vice President, Tramale Ealy; Secretary, Penni Baker; Treasurer, Alyson Warren; Reporter, Melody Humphrey; Historian, Katie Brown; Parliamentarian, Lorianne Hicks. Alex Chatman is also serving as District V Vice President.

Members who participated in the Great Arkansas Clean Up Day on Saturday, September 6, were Samantha Glover, Penni Baker, Alyson Warren, Katie Brown, Shanna Boling, and Adviser, Nansi Ridling. The chapter was represented in the Faulkner County Fair Parade by Penni Baker, Miss Guy FBLA, and Alex Chatman, Mr. Guy FBLA. Tramale Ealy rode on the Guy-Perkins High School float. The chapter participated in the Statewide Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Day on October 1 and was represented at the District V Fall Leadership Conference on October 3 at Arkansas Tech University by 33 members. Latoya Criswell and Jerry Tyus represented the chapter in the "Battle of the Chapters." Fundraising activities include a silent auction and concession stand at basketball games.

GILLETT HIGH--Officers are President, Cliff Haynes; Vice President, Sarah Poll; Secretary, Jennifer Smith; Treasurer, Brent Reed; Reporter, Amber Box; Historian, Brooke Meeks; Parliamentarian, Casey Hesser; Adviser's Assistant, Sarah Johnston; and Executive Council Member, Crystal Parker. We have 64 members--15 more than last year. We will again be selling Otis Spunkmeyer cookies with a portion going to the March of Dimes and Arkansas Children's Hospital. We hope to be a Gold Seal and Go for the Gold Chapter again this year.

HACKETT--Hackett FBLA has several projects under way. During October we sold Spookie Cookies for Halloween. On Saturday, November 1, we had our annual Halloween party at our adviser's home. There were games, snacks, and a costume contest for funniest, scariest, and most original costumes. As a community service project, we are working on a Hackett City Brochure telling about the founding of Hackett and about Hackett today. Other service projects include fundraisers for the Arkansas Children's Hospital and the March of Dimes, as well as finger printing local children for the Special Olympics. In November we will have a pizza party to begin our Fasco fundraising efforts. Two of our members, Kelly Reeves and Trever Caldwell, and our adviser, Tracie Cosgrove, attended the NFLC in Virginia Beach.

HALL--Officers are as follows: Seth Lomack, President; Monica James, Vice President; Fatima Hall, Secretary; Michael Reynolds, Treasurer; Rhema Pekar, Reporter; Ray Kennard, Historian; and Marlon Willis, Parliamentarian. During our first officers' meeting we made plans for committees and fundraisers. On Monday, September 8, FBLA members assisted during our school's annual Open House. Our next activity was Clubfest on Wednesday, September 10. FBLA members set up tables and encouraged fellow students to join FBLA. On October 1 our chapter attended the District VIII Fall Leadership Conference at Sherwood Forest. We were introduced to our District VIII officers, informed of recent and upcoming activities, and given advice about creating a successful chapter. On October 6 we made plans for our Homecoming float, and members volunteered for various committees. We also discussed plans for the March of Dimes Halloween project. At the 1997 NLC we were proud to receive the Gold Seal Award of Merit for our hard work.

HARMONY GROVE--Harmony Grove in Camden is participating in the school's Halloween Carnival this year as a fundraiser. We will have a booth where we pretend to marry people. The bride will don a veil, and the groom a top hat and bow tie. Each couple will receive a marriage certificate, bridal ring, and photograph.

HATFIELD--The officers assisting Mrs. Lisa Rackley this year are Kameesha Christensen, President; Jennifer Davis, Vice President; Amy Singleton, Secretary; Dana Lane, Treasurer; Amanda Glover, Reporter; Misty Rose, Historian; and Maggie Keener, Parliamentarian. The chapter will participate in Champion's Challenge to raise money for conferences. On Thursday, October 9, the chapter had a party as the grand finale to our membership drive. On Friday, October 17, the chapter attended the fall conference at Quapaw Vo-Tech in Hot Springs. Kameesha Christensen and Jarrod Jeffcoat participated in the Battle of the Chapters. Nikki Miskow won second place in the program cover design.

HEBER SPRINGS--Officers are President, Justin Barnum; First Vice President, Shannon Wiley who is also serving as District V Parliamentarian and State Reporter; Second Vice President, Ashley Altom; Secretary, Emily Hunter; Treasurer, Sarah Adcock; Historian and Photographer, Margaret Tilley; Parliamentarian, Michelle Crouse; and Reporter, Amy Goff. Membership currently stands at 101.

Activities this fall have included having a cookout at Greers Ferry Lake, making a sign for homecoming, conducting our fundraising campaign, and attending the District V Fall Conference. Stephen Baker and Amy Goff represented the chapter in the Battle of the Chapters, and Heather Sewell sang the National Anthem. The Chapter is working with the Rotary Club of Heber Springs to develop a Work Day project. An essay contest was held in November to honor American Free Enterprise Day with $100.00 in cash prizes being given to winners. Members also brought nonperishable items for the chapter's traditional Thanksgiving Basket for Cleburne County Cares, a nonprofit organization that helps needy families. Shannon Wiley, Cindy Carpenter, and Ms. Dana Hunt attended the Southern Region NFLC.

HOLLY GROVE--Officers are Alisha Cobbs, President; Harriet Mayo, Vice President; Lakeya Porter, Secretary; April Hampton, Treasurer; Dalton Daniels, Reporter; Kendra Braggs, Historian; and Kizzie Cleveland, Parliamentarian. Our adviser is Ms. Fannie Johnson. District VIII Secretary, Shameeka Cobbs, and her adviser attended Operation Enterprise in Hamilton, New York, June 16-25. Shameeka earned this opportunity by completing the FBLA Operation Enterprise application. Shameeka stated, "This was truly a rewarding experience, and I would like to encourage other FBLA'ers to take advantage of this unique opportunity." Plans are being finalized for several school, community, and fundraising projects. The chapter is considering selling Otis Spunkmeyer cookies and just completed a candy sale. In November school calendars will be sold to raise money for the Arkansas Children's Hospital, and an "In Praise of Age" Pre-Thanksgiving Luncheon will be held for senior citizens. Four students and the adviser attended the NFLC in Virginia in November. The chapter is proud to have captured the Gold Key Award for the fifth consecutive year!

HOT SPRINGS MIDDLE SCHOOL--Our new chapter began October 3, and we now have 42 members. Our President is an 8th grader, Ashley Samuels, and our Vice President is a 7th grader, Hanna Reilly. Other officers are sixth graders, Lance Burroughs, Treasurer; Michael Wiley, Secretary; and Sydney McLeod, Reporter. We are in the process of having fund raisers so that we may purchase FBLA attire, go to the conference in April, and help charities. We have two advisers--Ms Debbie Reed and Mr. Ted Dean.

HOXIE--The Hoxie chapter met recently to elect officers and to discuss attending the Fall Leadership Conference in Jonesboro. Officers for the 1997-98 year are President, Courteney Wall; Vice President, Anna Gipson; and Secretary, Lea Killian. We have 24 members, and 22 attended the conference.

IZARD COUNTY--The ICC FBLA chapter started the year with one member, Amanda Cain, District VI Reporter, attending the National Leadership Conference. We elected the following new officers: Amber Elbert, President; Missy Sherrell, Vice President; Louise McBride, Secretary; and Nick Bailey, Treasurer. Fifteen members attended the District VI Fall Conference in Melbourne on October 17. The chapter has started its fundraising project, Nestle-Beich candy. Four members, Jeff Barnes, Louise McBride, Dusty Chapman, and Amanda Cain attended NFLC.

LAKE HAMILTON MIDDLE SCHOOL--Lake Hamilton, in its second year as a middle school chapter, has 96 members. We are busy doing things for others. We took over $133 in change to our District IV Middle Level Conference. The chapter won the spring program cover design contest. We collected 60 bags of candy to help the PTA supply the fall carnival on October 25. We had a field trip planned for November 13 to observe the Arkansas Law Enforcement Academy at Camden. We will collect food for the needy for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and we will take four names--two boys, two girls--from a local church's Angel Tree. After the first of the year, small groups will visit the juvenile court on Friday mornings.

MAGNOLIA--Among Magnolia's activities has been the selling of Otis Spunkmeyer cookies during lunchtime once a week. Demand rose dramatically, and we could not seem to bake enough. Plans for a future fundraiser are to wash windows to raise money for our chapter. We are in the process of launching our community service project. This year's theme is the elderly, and our project is titled the "Puppy Project." Once a month, members will take puppies to a local nursing home and visit with the residents. We received positive feedback from the project last year. As another service project, several members participated in a Heart Walk Marathon to raise money for the March of Dimes.

MCCLELLAN-- The membership goal this year is 300 members, and the chapter now has approximately 265. Officers are Brandon Craft, President; Anton Bland, First Vice President; Tammy Toki, Second Vice President; Tameka Woodley, Secretary; Carl Silas and Kelvy Matthews, Co-Treasurers; Hannah Dolle, Historian; Leigh Marts, Parliamentarian; Erin Johnson, Reporter; Shelly Steed, Senior Representative; Colletee Baugh, Junior Representative; and Amanda Fields, Sophomore Representative. Officers were installed in a candlelight ceremony at Austin's Wood and Grill on November 3.

The first FBLA Day, held September 23, was conducted by Mrs. McCallie. Members attended the District VIII Fall Leadership Conference on October 1, at Sherwood Forest in Sherwood, and the NFLC in Virginia Beach. Other events include American Enterprise Day on November 15 and Media Day which will be held in December. A Christmas party is being planned at Chuck E. Cheese. The first service project is collecting school supplies for the Southern Christian Home in Morrilton. Our goal is to collect at least 200 items. Other service projects include Coats for Kids, Toys for Tots, the Southwest Nursing Home, Children's Hospital, March of Dimes, Thanksgiving baskets, and an Angel Tree for needy children. School projects include beautification of the campus, auditorium project, paint the lockers, teacher appreciation days, and clothes closet for the needy. We will again work on Gold Seal and Go for the Gold!

MULBERRY--The Mulberry Chapter has met and elected officers for the coming year. They are Jered Medlock, President; Sam Bright, Vice President; Kim King, Secretary; Stephanie Jeffers, Treasurer; and Josh MacLachlan, Parliamentarian. We have 21 members, which is an increase from last year. The members will be selling Otis Spunkmeyer Cookies and JAD Acrylics which include personalized keychains, locker mirrors, picture frames, clip board, etc. We will designate part of our profits for the Arkansas Children's Hospital. One member spent some time there this summer so we are targeting the Children's Hospital as our first fundraiser. Mulberry sponsors two blood drives each year. Nineteen members from our school attended the Fall Conference at the University of Arkansas.

OZARK JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL--The chapter had an incredible membership drive of 108 members, which is quite an increase from 88 members last year. The officers are President, Ashley Pledger; Vice President, Ivy Schaffer; Secretary, Mandy Pyron; Treasurers, Sandy Ott and Paul Miller; Parliamentarian, Emily Cline; Reporter, Timbre' Franklin; Historians, Melissa Zinzi and Charlotte Coats. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency, the chapter held a school awareness day on October 1, with refreshments, a guest speaker, a moment of silence, and a balloon release. Mrs. Jeannie Duerr and her son Eddie Duerr, who received a liver transplant when he was in the 6th grade, spoke to approximately 80 students. Afterwards, the students formed a circle around the flag pole for a moment of silence and released 50 balloons in honor of those who have given life to someone else through organ donation. Eighty-five members and five guests attended the District I Fall Conference. In November we will hold an essay contest on Free Enterprise.

OZARK--The Ozark Chapter sold Tom Wat products to finance our activities. Mrs. Bratton, Advisor, took 18 members to our District I Fall Conference at Fayetteville on October 1. We will celebrate National Education for Business Week, National Vocational Education Week, and National FBLA Week this year. We are already studying for district competition in March.

PANGBURN--Pangburn has a record membership this year of 97 members! To celebrate we took a fun filled trip to Qzar Laser Tag in Little Rock. Our officers for 1997-98 are Amy Reaper, President; Bryan Sloate, Vice President; Shannon Harper, Secretary; Georgia Fuller, Treasurer; Adam Baser, Reporter; Nicole Moore, Parliamentarian; and Jeremy Kurck, Student Council Representative. Five of our officers attended the NFLC in Virginia Beach with Nicole Moore competing on the Arkansas team in "Battle of the States." Our chapter has been busy selling Otis Spunkmeyer cookies and Nestle Beich candy bars to raise money for our service projects and other expenses.

PARIS HIGH SCHOOL--Paris began the year by installing the following officers: President, Lecia Schluterman; First Vice President, Amanda Jorgensen; Second Vice President, Teri Kelley; Third Vice President, Josh Beers; Secretary, Jessica Johnson; Treasurer, Nakita Martin; Reporter, Alanna Johnson; Historian, Lenette Cates; Parliamentarian, Chris Blake; and Ninth Grade Representatives Kayla Todd and Amy Ashlock. We are proud to have Alanna Johnson serving as District I FBLA Secretary and Brittany Butte serving as District I Parliamentarian. This summer we participated in the First Annual Mt. Magazine Butterfly Festival, and we also participated in the Mt. Magazine Frontier Days during October. Forty-five of our members attended the District I Fall Leadership Conference at the U of A, Fayetteville Campus. We have projects scheduled for ACH, Leukemia Society, Coats for Kids, and a food drive.

PRESCOTT--The Prescott FBLA started the year with a membership drive. We currently have 92 members and 2 professional members. Our officers include Jarrod Yates, District IV State Vice-President and Local Chapter President; Laura Johnston, VP of Publicity; Jessie Ward, VP of Membership; Tamara Marlar, VP of Fund Raisers; Al Johnston, VP of Community Service; Lindsay Franks, VP of Partnership with Business; Jana Barfield, VP of American Enterprise; Jarrod Miller, Treasurer; and Tricia Thompson, Secretary. Prescott FBLA held its Annual Fish Fry in October with proceeds designated to help pay students' fees to state and national conferences. The chapter held a roadblock during October to raise funds for the Arkansas Children's Hospital. Sixty members from the chapter attended the District IV Conference at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. Five members and one adviser traveled to Virginia Beach to attend the NFLC. In the spring, the chapter will begin its second fundraiser--selling Kathryn Beich candy. Other activities include traveling to Little Rock to tour two businesses, raising funds for the March of Dimes, and attending the Spring Conference.

RIVERVIEW--The Riverview officers are President, D. J. Durham; Vice President, Josh Schmidt; Secretary, Kristy Noble; Treasurer, Kim Ferren; and Reporter, Becky Schrand. On September 16, the chapter had a cookout at a local park. The chapter celebrated ARORA Awareness Day and honored all donors, who gave so that someone else may live, with a balloon release at noon. On October 3, the chapter had 51 members and 2 advisers that attended the District V Fall Conference held at ATU in Russellville. The guest speaker for the day was Tiffany Pettus and the highlight of the day was when Holly Pratt, a member of Riverview FBLA, won First Place in the Battle of the Chapters Trivia Contest. The members enjoyed the conference and the opportunity to meet other District V members. Seven members are looking forward to the NFLC in Virginia Beach.

ROGERS--New officers are Dionne McNeil, President; Mandy Mills, Vice President; Sarah Parsley, Secretary; Amanda Coffee, Parliamentarian; Sara Gray, Public Relations; McCrea Fry, Community Service. We now have 196 members. To raise money for the Arkansas Children's Hospital, Rogers is hosting a Powder Puff football game on October 24. The teams consist of Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, and Moms. During the games, we will be selling raffle tickets for two sets of Razorback football tickets to the Mississippi State game on November 22. The tickets were donated by The Morning News of Northwest Arkansas, and all proceeds will go to the Arkansas Children's Hospital. We are having a "Black Out" at Rogers High School, and FBLA is going to help make this happen. For $1.00 you can black out a section of the Media Center windows with proceeds going to the United Way.

SALEM--This year's officers are President, Crystal Tharp; Vice President, Sheryl Campbell; Secretary, Amanda Sublett; Treasurer, Amber Taylor; Reporter, Heather McKnight; Historian, Stephanie Saunders; Parliamentarian, Chad Towns; and Student Adviser, Sarah Brown. The year has been busy for everyone, but we found time to attend the District VI Fall Conference on October 17 at the John Miller Complex at Ozarka Technical College in Melbourne. On October 30, our chapter distributed Halloween treats to elementary students with a note emphasizing Halloween safety rules in each bag. Red Ribbon Week was held October 27-30 with members participating in a drug-free pep rally by creating a cheer using the motions to the Hokey Pokey and rewriting the words to emphasize drug-free students. On November 6, members enjoyed a bowling and pizza party.

SEARCY--The chapter has elected officers, attended the District V Fall Conference, heard guest speakers, and participated in Tom Watt fundraising. Officers are Jennifer Hunter, President; Shannon Parks, Vice President; Julie Miller, Secretary; Ryan Johnson, Treasurer; Melody Burman, Historian; Jennifer Woodruff, Reporter; Allison Bunn, Parliamentarian; Stephanie Vaughn, Photographer; and Jessica James and Molly Holiday, Fundraising Chairpersons. Two officers, Shannon Parks and Jennifer Woodruff, competed in Challenge of the Chapters at the District V Fall Conference. With help from our advisers, Debbie Latimer, Vikki Mosley, and Donna Turner, we welcomed Rita Smith from ARORA who shared information with us about being an organ donor.

SILOAM SPRINGS--Siloam Springs has a new record of 114 members this year and received the award for largest school in attendance at this year's FBLA District I Fall Leadership Conference. To promote FBLA, we are having monthly business lunches every Tuesday. Speakers have consisted of small business owners Rich Allen of the Kismet Group and Fat Toney of Fat Toney's BBQ. As our first fundraiser of the year, FBLA kicked off a back-to-school dance. Plans have been made to sell candy bars.

SPRINGDALE--Springdale will host its 4th Annual Entrepreneurship Conference on Friday, November 14, at the Jones Center for Families from 8:30 a.m. until noon. Cost is $7. The purpose of the conference is to bring FBLA members of Northwest Arkansas together with business leaders to learn about Entrepreneurship. We will have motivational speakers from many different businesses including Mr. Bill Matthews, McDonald's Inc.; Mrs. Blake Woolsey, Outer Limit Provisions Clothing; Mrs. Frances Mayo, Around the World Travel Agency; Ms. Audra Lee, Footworks Dance Studio; Mrs. Margret Parrish, Service Corp. Of Retired Executives; Mr. John George, Groundsport Clothing; Mr. Jim Crouch, Cypert, Crouch, Clark & Harwell Law; Mr. Bob Ryan, Ryan's Clothing; Mr. Kirk Thompson, J. B. Hunt CEO. All FBLA members in District I are invited to attend with their advisers.

SYLVAN HILLS--Thirty-four members and three advisers attended the Fall Leadership Conference on October 1 and visited the Retirement Center of Arkansas in Sherwood afterwards as a community service. At the conference, Stephanie Haynes won 2nd place in the poster contest. Since we plan to have a project this year with the travel industry, we invited Sheila Yount of Arkansas Parks and Tourism to speak on October 7. She explained what part members can play in this industry and how it works. Officers are Brian Brook, President; Crystal Broadway, Vice President; Amanda Winley, Secretary; Marshall Jones, Reporter; Natalie Lawson, Historian Rachael Dickerson, Parliamentarian. Marshall Jones from Sylvan Hills is the District VIII Treasurer.

VAN BUREN--The Van Buren Chapter is geared up for an exciting year with two new advisers, Kelly Todd and Gary Boyle, along with newly elected officers--President, Amanda Glass; Vice President, Tiffany Belt; Secretary, Tiffany Norwood; Treasurer, Rene Rowe; Reporter, Amy Lewis; Historian, Lalisa Lingo; and Parliamentarian, Alisha Cooper. This year members will participate in conferences, competitions, and community service. The FBLA, COE, GCE luncheon has been planned for April.

VILONIA--We recently concluded our membership drive and have 120 members. Our first general meeting was held on September 23 with Shannon Wiley, State Reporter and District V Parliamentarian, as our guest speaker. She spoke to over 200 returning FBLA members and business students on the advantages of getting involved in FBLA. On September 5, business students cleaned up a stretch of Highway 64 as part of the Great Arkansas Clean-Up. Our annual officers' breakfast was held on Saturday, September 13, at Shoney's in Conway. Sixty-one members and two advisers attended the District V Fall Leadership Conference in Russellville on October 3. Brandon Rodgers and Morgan David participated in the Battle of the Chapters competition. Miss David, Jamie Massey, and Ashley Frantz won door prizes at the conference. Candy is currently being sold as our annual fundraiser. Pans are being made for the American Free Enterprise activities, collection of food and toys for SCAN, pumpkin sales for March of Dimes, and the sale of candygrams for Arkansas Children's Hospital.

VIOLA--Our new officers are as follows: Mindy Shrable, President; Jennifer Bruns, Vice President; Kristina Smith, Secretary; Sarah Peterson, Treasurer; Penny McFarland, Reporter; Claudia Huett, Historian; and Rachel Hively, Parliamentarian. Our chapter adviser is Mrs. Loyola Cain. On October 17, 24 out of 34 Viola members attended the District VI Fall Conference at Ozarka Technical College. Our chapter was recognized for the Gold Seal Award and for national attendance. Our adviser attended the national conference at Anaheim, California. Two of our members, Crystal Martin and Amber Robbins, won second place in the program cover design contest. In November four of our members, Jennifer Bruns, Sarah Peterson, Claudia Huett, and Rachel Hively, and our adviser plan to attend the Southern Region National Fall Leadership Conference.

WEINER--Officers are Josh Brooks, President; Cale Block, Vice President; Reagan Greeno, Secretary; Katherine Rosalejos, Treasurer; Wendy Pate, Reporter; and Shannon Tubbs, Parliamentarian. After Mrs. Holt installed the officers, a six-foot sandwich was served to members and teachers. Items on the agenda include a bonfire/tailgate party for FBLA members before a WHS basketball game, a Thanksgiving luncheon, and service projects. Kathy Rosalejos, Josh Brooks, and Carrie Pohlner attended the NFLC along with chaperone Beckie Brooks.

WHITE COUNTY CENTRAL--During the first week of September, we elected the following officers for the year: Matt Donnell, President; Beverly Kimbriel, Vice President; Tina Villareal, Secretary/Treasurer; and Lindsay Griffis, Reporter. Twelve of our members attended the District V Fall Leadership Conference held in Russellville on October 3. Two of those members also participated in the Battle of the Chapters.

WITT SPRINGS--Witt Springs is off to a good start with 10 members. Officers are President, Richard VanDyne; Vice President, Michael Oerlemans; Secretary, Bethany Casto; Treasurer, Betty Lawrence; Reporter, Aleah Caughron; and Historian, Becky Rehm. Our group attended District VI's Fall Conference in Melbourne on October 17 and had a great time! We are busy making plans for our coming year's activities. One of our plans is to "Go for the Gold." We also plan to hold a change collection in elementary school for March of Dimes with the class collecting the most winning a pinata.

YELLVILLE-SUMMIT--With 54 members, YS has the largest chapter in several years. A cookout was held at Buffalo Point on October 2 with 34 guests treated to a gourmet dinner by chefs Brandon Fogerty, Jonathan Kelly, and Ryan Florio. Chaperones were Brad and Susan Treece and Mrs. Jackson. At the October 15 meeting, members watched a video from the National Center that described the projects and opportunities available to members. Plans for American Free Enterprise Day include having Mr. Roger Gilley speak at our monthly meeting and working in area banks handing out cookies and brochures describing the rights of all Americans to own their own business. Thirteen members and Mrs. Jackson attended the Fall District Conference held at the Ozarka Technical School in Melbourne. The highlight of the day was the keynote address by former FBLA member Darren Irby. He encouraged members to make the world a better place for everyone by performing unselfish acts.

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