Rector, Arkansas

Rector residents are extremely proud of the city's beautiful community center, located among the trees in Memorial Park on Highway 49.

The facility, which opened in 1992, features a large multi-purpose room with stage and concert lighting, a dining room with commercial kitchen, meeting rooms and office area.

Prior to the opening of the new center, the community really had no central location for hosting the tremendous variety of meetings, concerts, dinners and reunions that now find home each week at the center. It has truly been a flexible facility and a popular gathering point for the entire community. Among the largest events each year at the center are the Rector Area Chamber of Commerce banquet in April and the Community Christmas Reception in December.

The building was constructed through years of donations by community residents, a state grant and the special contribution of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Crockett. Donations of $1,000 or more are recognized in the center lobby, but all gifts were greatly appreciated in making the facility a reality. Donations still are needed for the maintenance and operation of the facility and persons wishing to contribute may contact the center at 870-595-2188 or Rector City Hall at 870-595-3035.

Nelda Chadwick has served for many years as director of the community center and has been instrumental in the success of the facility. She is assisted by Reuben Seay and Eva Clardy. The center is open from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday and at other times for civic events or rented use and the public is encouraged to use the facility. For information, please contact the center staff.

The Rector Community Center is operated by the city under the supervision of a volunteer committee. Members are Paul Schwager (chairman), Nancy Kemp, Bill Martin, Jessie Malin, Cyndi Corkran and Jasa Hollis.