Disaster Assistance for 2026 Livestock Forage Losses
Producers in Scott County are eligible to apply for 2026 Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) benefits on [ improved pasture.]
LFP provides compensation if you suffer grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately owned or cash leased land or fire on federally managed land.
County committees can only accept LFP applications after notification is received by the National Office of qualifying drought or if a federal agency prohibits producers from grazing normal permitted livestock on federally managed lands due to qualifying fire. You must complete a CCC-853 and the required supporting documentation no later than March 1, 2027 for 2026 losses.
For additional information about LFP, including eligible livestock and fire criteria, contact the Sebastian County USDA Service Center at 479-646-8300 ext. 2 or visit fsa.usda.gov.
Extension Homemakers Clubs provide opportunities to learn, lead and serve
By Tristin Bolton
U of A System Division of Agriculture
Fort Smith, Ark. — Extension Homemakers in Sebastian County are celebrating the contributions of their organization to the community during May as Extension Homemakers Month in Arkansas.
The Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council is a volunteer organization associated with the Cooperative Extension Service, part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. It has more than 2,500 members in nearly 300 clubs throughout the state.
Sebastian County EHC clubs:
• Central EHC
• Cavanaugh EHC
• Excelsior EHC
The Extension Homemakers program provides its members with education, friendship, and leadership development. Individual clubs work on various projects throughout the year, depending on the interests of their members and the needs of their communities.
As part of the observance, Greenwood Mayor, Doug Kinslow, has officially proclaimed May as Extension Homemakers Month in Greenwood. The proclamation was recently presented to Sebastain County EH President, Denise Kaestner.
“We are always looking for new members and invite anyone interested to visit one of our meetings,” Tristin Bolton, Family Consumer Sciences Agent, said. “It’s a great way to continue learning, to serve your community, and meet friends.”
To learn more about Extension Homemakers, contact Tristin Bolton at 479-484-7737.
About the Division of Agriculture
The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s mission is to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best practices. Through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service, the Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation’s historic land grant education system.
The Division of Agriculture is one of 20 entities within the University of Arkansas System. It has offices in all 75 counties in Arkansas and faculty on three system campuses.
State Capitol Week in Review from Senator Terry Rice
LITTLE ROCK – Some highlights from the fourth and final week of the Arkansas General Assembly’s Fiscal Session:
The Senate started the week by passing appropriation bills for departments, divisions, and agencies, including the Department of Health; Parks, Heritage and Tourism; Department of Transportation, UA East Arkansas Community College, and more.
Meeting briefly Monday evening, the Joint Budget Committee voted on HB1034, the Treasurer of State appropriation. The members voted to remove all proposed pay increases.
The Joint Budget Committee met on Tuesday to deal with government contracts, funding requests, out of state contracts, and discretionary grants.
The Senate convened at 1:00 and passed appropriation bills for the Board of Election Commissioners, the Division of Emergency Management, the Division of Environmental Quality, the State Insurance Department, and other departments, agencies, and boards.
The Senate also approved HB1103 to increase the homestead property tax credit to $675.
On Wednesday, the Senate voted to approve HB1100 to amend the Revenue Stabilization Law. Members also passed the last appropriations bills for UA Little Rock, Tobacco Prevention and Cessation programs, the Division of Environmental Quality, and more.
The Senate passed a bill providing matching funds for Arkansas TV to continue to receive PBS programming, but the bill failed in the House.
Members elected Senator Breanne Davis as the next President Pro Tempore designee. Senator Ronald Caldwell announced he will run for President Pro Tempore on the floor in November. The deciding vote will be given by the 96th Senate during its organizational meeting after the elections.
Republicans chose Senator Joshua Bryant as Majority Leader and Senator Tyler Dees as the Majority Whip. Due to members who are term limited, the Democratic caucus will wait until after the elections to elect its leadership.
At the conclusion of the day’s business, the Senate adjourned sine die, finishing the work of the 2026 fiscal session. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed the completed $6.7 billion budget bills Wednesday afternoon.
The crack of bats and the roar of the crowd echoed through Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock on Wednesday night as the Arkansas Senate took on the Arkansas House of Representatives in the inaugural Home Run for Kids’ Sake charity softball game. The Senate power hitters were joined by sluggers from the Governor’s and Attorney General’s offices.
Previous matchups between the two legislative houses have taken place on the basketball court, where the Senate has dominated. This was the first year for softball.
The House edged ahead of the Senate in the final inning, winning 7-6. The real winners, of course, are the recipients of the game’s proceeds: Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Central Arkansas and the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas.
You can watch any of the fiscal meetings on demand at https://senate.arkansas.gov.
You can read and download PDFs of the bills that were filed for the session at https://arkleg.state.ar.us/. Click on “Bills” in the menu, where you can search by keyword or filing date.
Obituary: Richard Hall (1960-2026)
Richard Alan Hall, better known as Rick, passed from this life on April 28, 2026 at his home. Rick was born on October 26, 1960 to proud parents Robert (Bob) and Jean Hall in Chula Vista, California.
After serving in the military, Bob and family moved back to Scott County and bought a farm in Cauthron, Arkansas. This farm is where Rick grew up and learned from his parents that hard work, honest values and love would be his way of life.
Rick’s family moved to Waldron when he was sixteen and he loved it. Rick went to school in Waldron from first grade to graduation. He loved playing basketball, baseball and softball along side his buddies.Upon graduating, Rick went on to college where he worked to become a master electrician. This college helped him get the job at Arkansas Nuclear One Power Plant in Russellville Arkansas.
The move to Russellville led to marriage and children Kyle and Christopher Hall. Rick was very involved with both boys and enjoyed going to all of their sport activities and school functions. He also enjoyed taking the boys camping and hunting with some of his best friends Roy Pyle and Rick Deeds. Rick also played on a softball league during the summers as well as volleyball.
Rick also loved the outdoors which led him to his dream to move back to Scott County and buy some land at Cauthron which is where he spent his retirement years. Rick found the place that made him the happiest along with his dogs Buck, Ella, Rosie and Kitty.
Rick leaves behind to cherish his memory, his children: Kyle Alan Hall and Christopher Ryan Hall both of Waldron, Arkansas. Rick will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including friends, neighbors and loved ones.
Rick was preceded in death by his loving parents, Robert and Jean Hall.
Rick’s memorial life celebration will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Mark Ward officiating.
Rick’s family will visit with friends and relatives Tuesday May 5, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.
New Braum’s Location in Greenwood Set to Open
A new Braum’s location will officially open its doors in Greenwood at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, drawing early attention from residents eager to visit the popular restaurant.
Located at 811 Clarence Way, the new store sits adjacent to the new Sebastian County Library facility, placing it in a rapidly developing area of the city expected to see increased traffic activity.
The store features the company’s modern design and spans more than 6,000 square feet. It includes a Fresh Market area with seating for approximately 80 guests, along with double drive-thru lanes designed to improve convenience and traffic flow.
Greenwood Mayor Doug Kinslow acknowledged the excitement surrounding the opening but also expressed concerns about potential congestion in the area.
“We’re excited to welcome Braum’s to Greenwood,” Kinslow said. “At the same time, we want to encourage everyone to be patient and cautious, especially with the expected increase in traffic around the new location.”
City officials are advising motorists to remain alert, follow traffic patterns, and allow extra time when traveling near the area during the opening days.
Braum’s will host a grand opening celebration from May 11 through May 17. Customers who visit during that week can receive scratch-to-win cards featuring prizes such as a $100 Braum’s gift card, wireless headphones, a laptop computer, and free food and merchandise.
The addition of Braum’s marks another step in Greenwood’s continued growth, bringing a new dining option to residents while contributing to the city’s expanding commercial development.
Obituary: Chad A. Lane (1971-2026)
Chad Ashley Lane was a force to be reckoned with. Born on December 12, 1971, he met challenge after challenge, yet did not stop trying to be more than they said he would ever be. They said he would never walk, but he did. They said he would never talk, but he did. They said he would not have a full life, but he did! He learned to spell, count, and run even when the odds were not in his favor. He could quote numerous Bible verses and prayed with complete trust that God was hearing him. Chad was funny, witty, and did not hold back his opinion. He could communicate in ways most only wish they could. Chad loved well and was also loved well. He loved his mom the most and preferred her over all others. Their bond was unbreakable.
Chad Ashley Lane stepped into eternity and into the arms of Jesus on Friday, April 23, 2026. He spoke often of the Lamb’s Book of Life and made sure his name was written in it. He lived with confidence in the fact that his time on earth was temporary and that someday he would get to go to his forever home where he would see Jesus and experience the fullness of His promises. We can only imagine the things he now sees and experiences, but maybe a big banner was hung that said, “Welcome home, Chad, Welcome HOME!”
Chad Lane is survived by his mother Carolyn Lane, brother Cameron Lane (Krista Lane), brother Clark Lane, sister Courtney Lane ( Gregory Greenich), three nephews, four nieces and seven great nieces and nephews.
Chad was preceded in death by his father Collins Lane.
A Celebration of Chad’s life will be held Monday, April 27, at Connect Church in Russellville at 6 PM. A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 2, at the Hon Cemetery in Hon, Arkansas at 11 AM. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.In lieu of flowers the family request contributions be made to Gideon’s International.
Greenwood Promotes Jason Gill to Head Coach
In the 104 years of Greenwood Football, there have been just nine coaches to command the sidelines. At the start of the 2026 season, it will be 10. Since 2013, Jason Gill has been a part of the Greenwood Football program. Coached in Fordyce by former Greenwood assistant coach Jim Cox, which culminated in two state championships. Coach Gill went on to serve as an assistant coach under Clay Totty during his run of state championships at Rison. From there, Coach Gill went to Mansfield, just south of Greenwood. At Mansfield, he coached the Tigers to their first Conference Championship and a 47-33 record in his seven seasons. Then it was on to Greenwood. Coach Gill started as the Junior High head coach, earning back-to-back Conference Championships.
For the 2015 season, he was promoted to Defensive Coordinator under then Head Coach Rick Jones. A position he has held ever since. Along the way, he coached not only his son, Parker Gill, into a standout linebacker but also a Bulldog defense that held teams to a touchdown or less in 44 games. Including a three-game streak of holding a highly potent Lake Hamilton offense to zero points. For his work as the Defensive Coordinator, he received the 2024 Broyles Award, Arkansas High School Assistant Coach of the Year.
“I’m really excited with Coach Gill taking over. Obviously, we’ve been successful here at a level that hadn’t been seen. [at Greenwood]” Athletic Director Chris Young said. “I think Coach Gill is definitely prepared for this. He’s worked under three State Championship coaches.”
“He’ll be able to pull from each of us, I think that he’s worked under, and he’s had good experience as a head coach.” Chris Young added.
Since Chris Young took over a dual role as Head Coach and Athletic Director three years ago. Coach Gill was tasked with taking on a more Head Coach role when Coach Young was handling other duties.
“It’s something that probably all coaches think about, taking over a program like this. It’s awesome for me. I’ve gotten to experience and see two great head coaches here. I just hope that I can live up to that standard.” New Head Coach Jason Gill said.
“I’ve coached at other places. I was a Head Coach at Mansfield. I was happy here. I was happy my families here. I could have went and been a Head Coach somewhere else. But, I don’t know if it was in the plan, but if it ever came up, I was willing to step in.” Coach Gill said. “Coach Young has taken on a lot, he took on the AD, so over the last 2 or 3 years, he’s transitioned some of the stuff that he usually took care of.”
“He put that on me, and he’s talked about he’d walk away one day. I didn’t think it would happen, but it’s happened. Probably quicker than he wanted.” Coach Gill added.
Coach Jason Gill starts Spring Practice at 6am on May 4th and will be looking to fill several key roles, but has a large crop of returning players, especially on defense.
End of a Coaching Era: Chris Young Moves to Administration
The Coaching carousel in Arkansas High School football has seen some large moves this offseason. Fayetteville’s Casey Dick left for Texas High School football; in turn, former Razorback and Pulaski Academy Head Coach Anthony Lucas took over the 7A West program. With the opening at the Little Rock private school, Sylvan Hills head coach Mark Kelley was named Head Coach of the Bruins. Coach Kelley had engineered a turnaround at Sylvan Hills that had them in the Semi-Finals in just one season. Legendary Arkansas Head Coach Clay Totty was released by Wynne, then hired by Hazen. When it looked like Greenwood was going to go another season with minor changes, then Wednesday morning happened.
Chris Young to step into Administrative role
In February, Junior High Defensive Coordinator Brandon Godfrey was announced as the Safeties coach in place of Percy Arnold. Former Bulldog Parker Gill was hired in March to fill the spot opened on the Junior High staff.
Wednesday morning, Head Coach Chris Young met with the team to announce that he was stepping into an administrative role as Director of District Operations and Activities. It will be a dual role for the longtime Greenwood coach, combining his Athletic Director role with the duties and tasks of Kevin Hesslen. Hesslen was hired as the Superintendent of Alma Public Schools in March.
Chris Young started his coaching career at Greenwood as part of the Junior High coaching staff in 2000. Coach Young was the only coach on the staff who had been part of all 12 State Championships and 18 of the 19 State Title appearances. In his tenure as a Head Coach, the Bulldogs went to six consecutive state title games and posted a 71-8 record, including three State Championships. During that 26-year run as a coach, he mentored Bulldog household names like Drew Morgan and Kane Archer.
“Congrats, man. You played one of the most important roles in my career. Foundational. Forever thankful. Sincerely. Best wishes in the new adventure. Great opportunity ahead.” Former Bulldog and Arkansas Razorback Drew Morgan sent in a text message to Coach Young.
“Coach Young was the most detailed and THE MOST honest coach I ever had.” Former Bulldog and current Utah Ute Kane Archer said. Archer set national and state records in his four years under Chris Young. “He made everyone buy in and personally made me want to run through a brick wall at times, and I can never say that I’ve said that about anyone else,” Archer said with a laugh. “Coach Young has made one of the biggest impacts in my life, in my time playing for him. I will always be grateful.”
In the shadow of cleared shelves and State Championship rings, Coach Young reflected on his time as Head Coach. “It’s been a dream job. When Rick [Jones] left six years ago, I think there was a lot of fear about me taking over. I think we’ve taken it to another level, even our culture. The way the kids act, the way they treat each other in the locker room, the way they work. I think it’s better than it’s ever been; our numbers are better. We have 107 out for varsity right now. We have 200 in Junior High; we’ve never had numbers. You always want to leave a program in a good or better shape than when you took it. And I think we’ve done that.”
“When I combined Jobs and took the Athletic Director three years ago, I knew that you couldn’t do both forever. Obviously, at that point, there was kind of a plan. The school board has to make those decisions, but I kind of saw there was going to be an opportunity to move up into upper administration. I sure didn’t think that Mr. Hesslen was going to get hired as Superintendent at Alma right now and speed up the process, but that is essentially what happened.” Coach Young said.
“It’s going to be awesome. I’m going to have the ability to spend time with my wife and kids that I haven’t had in 27 years of working on the weekends. My wife (Kelly Young) has been a huge, huge part of my success personally, but just always being there for me. Now it’s a time, maybe I can do something with her and the kids and my parents that I haven’t been doing in the past.” Coach Young said about life after leading a team like Greenwood.