eType Editor

Since opening Cate Pharmacy in 1976, Dennis Cate has remained a constant presence in Corning as the community’s hometown pharmacist. Under his ownership, the pharmacy has grown to include a boutique while continuing to focus on meeting the needs of local residents. Though he has stepped back from the counter, Cate still oversees the business and looks to the future with plans for continued growth and a strong commitment to the community. Known for greeting customers by name, offering a warm smile, and going the extra mile to ensure their needs were met, Cate is admired for the kindness and dedication that define his nearly 50 years of service. Cate and his wife Sherry, remain in Corning and are active in their community in many ways.

One of the greatest joys of putting together Faces of Corning has been reading the nominations. Each story reflected the heart of our community, people who show up, lend a hand and make a difference in ways both big and small.

For more than three decades, Jennifer Woolard has dedicated her career to education, with 22 of those years spent in Corning schools. A Biggers-Reyno High School graduate, she went on to earn multiple degrees from the University of Central Arkansas and Arkansas State University, including certifications in curriculum, instruction and leadership. Now in her 31st year as an educator, Woolard continues to focus on preparing students for success in college, careers and life.

Clay County 4-H Youth Leadership Citizenship Team members showcased their talents and dedication during Youth Day at the Clay County Fair. Twenty-one youth leaders volunteered at the fairgrounds, partnering with the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission and the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum to present an interactive program titled “4-H Reel into Arkansas Sport Fishing.”

Molly Jett of Corning has made community service a cornerstone of her life. Originally from West Memphis, she moved to Clay County in 2010 after marrying her husband, Logan. The couple lives on their family farm with their two sons, Mullen, 11, and Miles, 5.

Opal Lackey has dedicated her time and energy to helping Corning grow and thrive. After moving to St. Louis at 16, she returned home in 2014 following her retirement. She quickly became active in efforts to keep the community vibrant, determined that Corning would not lose its spirit after the loss of Walmart.

Sydney Stevens serves as Chief Operating Officer at 1st Choice Healthcare and has made it her mission to improve access to healthcare in rural areas. Having grown up in a rural community, she saw firsthand how hard it can be for families to get timely care, a reality that drives her work today.