STUTTGART — Locals flocked to the Grand Prairie Center with excitement and celebration this past Juneteenth, marking a significant milestone with the historic hosting of the inaugural Mr. & Miss Juneteenth Pageant during their Juneteenth celebration on Saturday.
The community gathered for a day filled with joy, reflection, and the crowning of two remarkable individuals, along with an awards ceremony.
The Grand Prairie Center also buzzed with activity as vendors lined the hallway, showcasing a diverse array of goods and services. Attendees explored unique offerings from local businesses and artisans, adding a vibrant marketplace atmosphere to the celebration. Outside, a barbecue food truck served up tasty delicacies, filling the air with enticing aromas and satisfying hungry guests.
The highlight of the festivities was undoubtedly the Mr. & Miss Juneteenth Pageant, a new tradition that brought out incredible talent and heartwarming moments. After a spirited competition, the esteemed titles were awarded to two shining stars: Miss Juneteenth Stuttgart 2025, Cali Reed, a talented 12-year-old from Pine Bluff, and Mr. Juneteenth Stuttgart 2025, Kace O’Mari Grayson, an adorable 1-year-old from Stuttgart.
Cali captivated the audience during the talent portion with a powerful and moving spoken word performance about the profound meaning of freedom. Her words resonated deeply, painting a vivid picture of liberation and hope. Some of the words included:
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“I wish you could know what it means to be me. Then you’d see and agree that every man should be free. I wish I could give. Oh, I’m longing to give. I wish I could live like I’m longing to live. I wish I could do all the things that I can do, and then I’m way overdue. I’ll be starting anew.”
Young Kace charmed everyone with a simpler, yet equally effective talent – simply being adorable, a quality he showcased effortlessly to the delight of the crowd until he saw his grandparents in the audience and reached out towards them.
The community also gathered to celebrate Juneteenth by honoring five exceptional individuals whose dedication has significantly impacted the city. The awards recognized leadership, service, and entrepreneurial spirit across various sectors, highlighting the rich contributions of these local heroes.
Pastor Al Allen received the Community Legacy Service Award in honor of his life dedicated to faith, family, and community. As the founder of Integrity Funeral Home and Monuments with Integrity, alongside his wife, Philomena, Allen provided comfort and dignity during difficult times.
“His true calling, however, has been in ministry as pastor of Lively Stone Church, where he serves as a spiritual shepherd,” said Kylia Neasly, founder and organizer of Stuttgart’s Juneteenth. “He also founded the New Creation Youth Group, mentoring and empowering at-risk youth.”
The Community Culinary Heritage Award was presented to Tracy Frye, founder of Frye-Guys, the home of the Famous Beanie Burger.
“Her passion and commitment to excellence have made Frye-Guys a cherished institution in Stuttgart, known for its hand-formed burgers and generous portions,” said Neasly.
Located at 204 N. Buerkle St., Frye-Guys is more than just a restaurant; it’s a local landmark where patrons feel like family.
Julia Thomasson was recognized with the Community Trailblazer Award for breaking barriers, leading with purpose, and inspiring generations. Thomasson made history as the first person of color to serve as co-postmaster in Stuttgart, a groundbreaking appointment that marked a turning point in the city’s journey toward inclusion and progress.
Beyond her role in the postal service, Thomasson is a proud and active member of the Stuttgart Rotary Club, having served as president and honored as a Paul Harris Fellow.
Kenneth Avery, co-owner and president of KenReg Trucking, Inc., was honored with the Community Leadership & Service Award.
“Since 1998, he has guided KenReg Trucking to become a cornerstone of the Stuttgart region, serving the agricultural and construction sectors with unmatched reliability,” said Neasly.
Beyond his business success, Avery gained recognition for his heroic actions during a catastrophic flood in Humnoke in 2018, where he used his excavation equipment to build a makeshift barrier, diverting floodwaters and saving countless homes and lives.
Finally, Walter Kibble, founder and owner of Kibb’s Bar-B-Q, with several locations in Stuttgart and Pine Bluff, received the Business Legacy & Community Impact Award.
“Since the early 1980s, Kibble has built more than a beloved restaurant; he has built a legacy,” said Neasly.
Kibb’s Bar-B-Q is renowned for its signature Central Arkansas-style barbecue and serves as a gathering space for fellowship and storytelling.
“For over 40 years, Kibble’s dedication to quality, tradition, and service has left an indelible mark on Stuttgart, earning him the Stuttgart Juneteenth Award for Black Business Excellence and a spot on Southern Living’s 2023 Top 50 Barbecue Joints in the South,” she said. “His story is one of faith, flavor, and fearless commitment to community.”
