Vesta Methodist Church in Charleston Welcomes New Pastor
We, at Vesta Methodist Church, are excited to welcome Pastor Gina Hamlin and her husband Steve to our Global Methodist congregation! Pastor Gina will begin her ministry with us on Sunday, July 6th, 2025, in our 9:00 AM Worship Service!
Pastor Gina has both her Bachelors and Master’s Degrees in Education from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville and is the Library Media Specialist for the Middle School and High School in Roland, OK. This is her 30th year in Education…with some years in Arkansas, but many more in Oklahoma, just 30 minutes away from their home in Alma. Her husband, Steve, is Shipping Supervisor at International Paper in Fort Smith. Pastor Gina adds, “He has been there for 36 years. This is hard to believe, since he’s only 30!” He has also been a referee for many years and has called games just about everywhere!
Pastor Gina and Steve enjoy fishing, going to Christian concerts, and watching football, boxing, and other sports. The pastor also loves to run, sing, go to consignment stores, and spend time with family and friends! Between the two of them, they have three grown children: Cody, Bethany, and Christian.
Pastor Gina says, “First, I would like to thank God for assigning my husband, Steve, and myself to Vesta Methodist Church! We have always believed that God calls us for a season and a reason. And, we can’t wait to see what He has in store for all of us during this time! So thankful that God can use me and my hubby to serve Him!”
She adds, “I have felt a calling since I was young to preach, but my mother confirmed my calling back in 2013, before she passed away. I was blessed to be raised in church and have much gratitude for my dad and mom’s influence. I went to Local License to Preach School in Conway, took Continuing Pastoral Classes, and then disaffiliated from the United Methodist Church. I was ordained as a Deacon in The Global Methodist Church in 2024. However, I may continue taking classes.”
To Vesta Methodist congregants and the surrounding communities, Pastor Gina says, “Can’t wait to get to know you all! Praying for you already. Please pray for us!”
All are welcome to worship with Vesta Methodist Church (8833 Hwy 217, Charleston, AR) on Sundays at 9 AM. Sunday School classes, for all ages, are held from 10:15 AM to 11 AM as well. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
State Capitol Week in Review from Senator Terry Rice
LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas ranks first in the nation in election integrity, according to the most recent study by the Heritage Foundation.
Last year Arkansas ranked number eight. At a press conference at the Capitol, the Governor, the Secretary of State and members of the legislature announced the newest ranking.
They attributed the state’s moving up in the rankings to prioritizing in recent years the passage of laws that secure the integrity of voter registration and processing ballots.
According to one senator, the Heritage Foundation rankings have long been the gold standard for comparing how well states prevent voter fraud.
Arkansas scored 91 out of 100 on the recent scorecard, including 20 out of 20 in the category of voter ID implementation. We scored three out of three in granting access to election observers, four out of four in verification of citizenship of voters, three out of three in requiring identification of people who assist others to vote and three out of three in prohibiting election officials from receiving pay or benefits from private sources.
Arkansas scored six out of six in how we monitor voter registration to prevent fraud. For example, Arkansas does not allow registration on the same day as elections. Requiring voter registration ahead of an election allows more time to verify the accuracy of applications.
However, Arkansas scored 26 out of 28 in the category that measured the accuracy of voter registration lists. One negative score was for not including photographs of voters on the lists of registered voters, where they are kept electronically.
The legislature’s approval of Act 840 of 2025 may correct a negative score in the Heritage rankings. The act allows the Secretary of State to share voter registration lists with federal courts, which use them for jury selection. In return, the courts will notify the state of ineligible voters such as non-citizens, convicted felons, dead people or non-residents of the state.
The Heritage Foundation scorecard did not include a package of bills enacted earlier this year that prevent deceptive practices when canvassers collect signatures in order to place an issue on the ballot.
However, the governor specifically mentioned several of them, such as Act 218 of 2025 to require canvassers to inform people, before collecting their signatures, that petition fraud is a Class A misdemeanor. The disclosure could be verbal, or in a separate written document that would be shown to people before they sign.
She also mentioned Act 240 to require canvassers to view a photo ID of each person signing the petition. If canvassers are unable to verify someone’s identity, they may not collect a signature.
The governor mentioned another bill that strengthens the protections of the signature-gathering process – Act 241. It requires canvassers to submit a sworn statement that they have complied with all state laws governing the collection of signatures, and with the Constitution. Unless canvassers submit the sworn statements, any signatures they submit will not be counted.
The Secretary of State listed measures to ensure the accuracy of voter registration lists, such as partnering with credit bureaus to determine that people actually live where they say they do on applications. Agreements with other states reveal whether people are registered in more than one state.
Arvest Invites Community to Million Meals Campaign Reveal June 12
FORT SMITH, Ark. (June 4, 2025) – Arvest Bank will host a community event to reveal fundraising totals from its 15th annual Million Meals campaign. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, in the parking lot of the Arvest Bank Tower at 5000 Rogers Ave. in Fort Smith. Food trucks will be on-site for attendees to purchase food, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit next year’s campaign.
The annual Million Meals campaign, which ran April through May this year, helps raise awareness about food insecurity and collects donations to donate directly to the bank’s more than 80 food partners throughout Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Kansas. Arvest associates from the Fort Smith region will also present checks to their food partners during the reveal.
The event, which will feature leaders from the city of Fort Smith and area food partner organizations, will also include a special presentation to honor the late Charolette Tidwell, who founded Antioch for Youth & Family in Fort Smith 25 years ago.
“We’re very excited to celebrate another successful Million Meals campaign and recognize the food partners who work tirelessly all year long to help those in need,” said Jennifer Caldwell, Community Marketing Manager for Arvest Bank – Fort Smith Region. “While our campaign just ended, their work continues, and we want to take a moment to say thank you to them and everyone who contributed to this year’s initiative.”
Money collected during the Million Meals campaign goes directly to the bank’s food partners to help them meet an increase in demand during the summer months when many families with children don’t have the benefit of free or reduced lunches at school. Over 14 years, the campaign has provided more than 25 million meals and collected more than $4.6 million in donations through 2024.
For more information about Million Meals and local food partners, visit arvest.com/millionmeals.
Veteran Law Enforcement Officer Announces Campaign
FORT SMITH, Ark. (June 4, 2025) – John Miller, a veteran law enforcement officer with over two decades of experience serving Sebastian County, has officially announced his candidacy for Sebastian County Sheriff in the upcoming election scheduled for March 3, 2026. Miller enters the race with the full endorsement of current Sebastian County Sheriff Hobe Runion.
A Fort Smith native and graduate of Southside High School, Miller began his law enforcement career with the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office in August 2001. Over the years, he has steadily risen through the ranks, gaining extensive experience across multiple divisions. His career includes service in the Patrol Division, S.W.A.T., Dive Team, and numerous leadership roles within the department. Miller also previously served in the United States Army Reserve.
“I am running for Sheriff because I believe in leading with accountability, experience, and integrity,” said Miller. “My time in law enforcement has taught me the importance of transparency, strong leadership, and a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our community.”
Miller’s leadership roles have included Director of Inmate Management, Jail Administrator, Division Commander of the Bailiff Division, and most recently, Chief Deputy Sheriff. In these positions, he has overseen budget management, staff supervision, crisis response, and policy development. His career is marked by a dedication to both operational excellence and community engagement.
“John has been a cornerstone of our department for many years. His dedication to public service, his experience at every level of the organization, and his unwavering commitment to the people of Sebastian County make him the ideal choice to lead our agency into the future. I am proud to endorse him as the next Sheriff of Sebastian County,” said Sebastian County Sheriff Hobe Runion.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Miller is a recipient of multiple commendations, including the Meritorious Service Award, Life-Saving Award, Unit Service Citation, and a Marksmanship commendation. He is a graduate of the FBI-LEEDA Executive Program and the School of Law Enforcement Supervision.
“As Sheriff, I will continue to serve our citizens with the same dedication and humility that have guided me throughout my career,” said Miller. “Together, we can ensure that Sebastian County remains a safe, secure, and supportive place for all its residents. I will work tirelessly to achieve that goal.”
City, County Officials Join Executive Director for Roundtable Discussion on Senior Center Funding Challenges
On Wednesday, June 4, Deanna Rice, Executive Director of the Region 8 Senior Centers, convened a roundtable discussion with city and county officials to address the pressing financial challenges facing local senior centers.
Attendees included Mansfield Mayor Buddy Black, City Recorder/Treasurer Joy Maly, Scott County Judge Brian Jones, District JP Bob Hattabaugh, and candidate for State Representative for Arkansas House District 52, Mike Jones. The discussion highlighted the critical funding shortfalls that senior centers are currently experiencing.
Mike Jones inquired of the myriad of problems contributing to the overall hardships the centers are facing. “I think that there was a lot of money spent in places where it would have been better served to have helped our seniors,” stated the political hopeful.
Deanna Rice noted that when she began working in the field two decades ago, state and federal grants covered between 50–66% of the budget. Today, that funding has dwindled to just 42%, leaving local centers struggling to maintain essential services. “Our cities like Mansfield have been very supportive of us,” said Rice, expressing gratitude for municipal assistance but emphasizing that the financial gap remains a growing concern.
The impact of budget cuts has forced difficult decisions, including turning away seniors seeking meals due to a lack of available food. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue, increasing the number of people relying on senior centers as they feared leaving their homes. While temporary pandemic-related funds helped support operations, the Sebastian County senior centers never shut down, continuing to distribute food and even hosting socially distanced activities such as bingo in the parking lot. However, inflation has continued to drive up costs, with no corresponding increase in funding.
Scott County Judge Brian Jones echoed Deanna Rice’s concerns, reaffirming his commitment to supporting his constituents. “My number one priority is helping the citizens of my county,” stated Jones. Jones discussed potential funding options through state initiatives and budget negotiations. Judge Jones also expressed a willingness to explore further solutions.
State Representative Zack Gramlich, representing District 50, which includes Sebastian County, acknowledged the scope of the issue, stating that senior center funding is a statewide challenge. “We have to figure this out at fiscal session,” said Gramlich. “We need to find the money to bridge the gap… this is an emergency, and we as legislators need to stop talking about it and take action.”
Senator Terry Rice, known for his longstanding advocacy for seniors, underscored the importance of finding solutions to keep senior centers operational. Senator Rice pointed out that keeping seniors active within their communities and ensuring they receive regular meals is a significantly more cost-effective approach than transitioning them into nursing homes. “Any nation that does not take care of its seniors is making a statement about its values as a whole,” the senator concluded.
As local and state officials continue discussions on funding solutions, senior centers remain hopeful that urgent action will be taken to ensure that these vital community hubs can continue serving those who rely on them.
Contact information for legislators in our coverage area:
Arkansas State Senator: District 5
Terry Rice – (R)
479-637-3100
Terry.Rice@senate.ar.gov
Arkansas State Senator: District 27
Justin Boyd – (R)
(479) 262-2156
justin.boyd@senate.ar.gov
Arkansas State Senate: District 26
Gary Stubblefield – (R)
479-635-4314
gary.stubblefield@senate.ar.gov
Arkansas State House District 52
Marcus E. Richmond – (R)
479-299-4416
richmond4staterep@gmail.com
Arkansas State House District 46
Jon S. Eubanks – (R)
479-438-0533
Jon.Eubanks@arkansashouse.org
Arkansas State House District 47
Lee Johnson – (R)
(479) 883-6393
lee.johnson@arkansashouse.org
Arkansas State House District 51
Cindy Crawford – (R)
(479) 883-1667
Arkansas State House District 51
Cindy Crawford – (R)
(479) 883-1667
cindy.crawford@arkansashouse.org
Arkansas State House District 50
Zack Gramlich – (R)
zack.gramlich@arkansashouse.org
Editor’s note: We have reached out to District 27 Senator Justin Boyd (R) but have not received a response as of press time. We will update the story in the event we do receive a response.
Waldron School Board Approves Roof Replacement Contracts at Special Meeting
The Waldron School Board held a special meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Central Office Building to address critical infrastructure improvements across the district.
Board members in attendance were Vice-President Mac Davis, Angela Hunsucker, and Konnor McKay. Members Stan Cottrell and Clay Woodall were absent. Also present were Superintendent Daniel Fielding, Chris Lipham, and Josh Wegenka.
Vice-President Davis officially called the meeting to order at 5:25 p.m.
The primary agenda item focused on roof replacements for two of the district’s facilities. Following discussion, a motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve a bid and enter into contracts with Escola Roofing for the Waldron Middle School roof replacement and with Aduddell Industries for the roof replacement at the Adventure Learning Academy. The motion passed unanimously, 3-0.
With no further business, a motion to adjourn was made by McKay and seconded by Hunsucker. The motion passed 3-0, and the meeting was officially adjourned at 5:47 p.m.
These upgrades mark continued progress in the district’s ongoing efforts to improve learning environments and ensure the safety and comfort of students and staff.
Buckley Announces Candidacy for Circuit Court Judge, Division 5
Fort Smith, AR (April 8, 2025) – Local attorney and longtime public servant Ashleigh Buckley has officially announced her candidacy for Circuit Court Judge of Division 5 in Sebastian County. The election will be held on March 3, 2026.
With a legal career spanning 15 years of litigation across civil, criminal, state, and federal courts, Buckley brings an experienced, well-rounded legal background and a deep commitment to justice and community engagement.
“I’m running for Circuit Court Judge to serve the people of Sebastian County with fairness, diligence, and a fresh new perspective,” said Buckley. “Having represented both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases, and worked as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, I understand the importance of a balanced perspective and impartial leadership on the bench.”
Buckley began her legal career with Leitner, Williams, Dooley & Napolitan, PLLC, where she represented Fortune 500 companies in complex civil litigation. She later returned home to the River Valley to serve as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Sebastian County, where she focused on cases involving child abuse and domestic violence. Her dedication to protecting children led her to a federal role as Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Arkansas, prosecuting cases under the Project Safe Childhood initiative and working with the Department of Homeland Security’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Child Abduction Response Team.
During her tenure as a federal prosecutor, Buckley collaborated with federal and local law enforcement to track and prosecute child predators and unregistered sex offenders. She also argued cases before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, including United States v. John Hill, a landmark case strengthening federal regulations on convicted sex offenders.
In 2017, Buckley joined her husband, William, at The Buckley Firm, LLC. In private practice, she has represented clients in civil matters including real estate, probate, construction, contracts, and personal injury. She also has experience defending individuals charged with federal financial crimes. In addition, Buckley has served as interim prosecuting attorney for the City of Fort Smith, handling city misdemeanor cases and Sebastian County’s DWI Court andAshleigh Buckley for Circuit Court Judge, Division 5 RISE Court programs, which offer alternatives to incarceration for individuals struggling with substance use or mental health challenges.
Beyond her legal career, Buckley has been a committed advocate for community development and nonprofit work in the River Valley. She served as President of the Junior League of Fort Smith in 2018, where she founded a college scholarship for teens in foster care. She is a co-founder of Fort Kids Children’s Museum, a 501(c)(3) organization working to bring a children’s museum to Fort Smith’s riverfront. Buckley also serves with Girls Inc., the Mercy Health Foundation, and Grace’s Toy Closet, a nonprofit supporting children undergoing cancer treatment.
Buckley is a proud honors graduate of Southside High School and earned her undergraduate degree magna cum laude from the University of Arkansas Honors College. She received her Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas School of Law where she was a member of the school’s mock trial team. In 2009, she and her partner became the first all-female team to win the William H. Sutton Trial Competition and she was recognized as Best Oralist in appellate advocacy in 2008.
Buckley and her husband have dedicated time to coaching the Southside High School mock trial team and she was elected to serve as President of the Sebastian County Bar Association in 2025 by her peers in the legal community. She was also selected for the 2025 Citizen Merit Award by the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association for her efforts to protect car wreck victims from fraudulent solicitations.
Ashleigh lives in Bonanza with her husband, William, and their two sons, Will (8) and Ben (3). They attend Immaculate Conception Church where Ashleigh is a lector and eucharistic minister.
Raised in the River Valley, she credits her upbringing—including time spent riding horses with the Greenwood Round-Up Club and Old Fort Days Dandies and playing AAU basketball —for shaping her strong sense of community and commitment to service.
“The best thing about Sebastian County is the people who live here and I would be honored to serve them as Circuit Court Judge.” Buckley said. “I believe in the value of hard work and will dedicate my time and best efforts to thoroughly reviewing every case to ensure the most fair and just outcome. The people of Sebastian County deserve nothing less.”
Learn more about Ashleigh Buckley at buckleyforjudge.com. To contact Ashleigh, please email ashleigh@buckleyforjudge.com.