Resident News Network

State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Terry Rice

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3:07 pm

State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Terry Rice

The Arkansas tourism industry continues to flourish and is soon to surpass $10 billion in economic impact, according to the most recent report from the state Parks, Heritage and Tourism Department.

The department closely monitors the effectiveness of promotion campaigns paid for with revenue from the state 2 percent tourism tax, which last year generated $25.8 million. That was a 5 percent increase over the previous year.

Advertising campaigns funded by the tax were expanded into 15 new media markets, mainly in western states and Illinois and North Carolina, according to the department director.

Traditional markets include Texas and other adjacent states. Now, California is one of our top ten markets. So is Iowa.

The marketing campaigns emphasize that the Arkansas outdoors can be enjoyed all year, regardless of the season.

Marketing efforts target three major categories. One is directed at people who like to hunt and fish. The second category is closely related. It focuses on people who like outdoor activities such as hiking, riding bicycles, bird watching, camping, floating rivers and boating in waterways.

The third category is known as the “travel-lifestyle” market. In contrast to emphasizing outdoor activities, it advertises the availability of art galleries, food, dining, historical and cultural events.

The “lifestyle” market includes people who plan trips around motorcycle rallies, blues music and barbecue. Those people are interested in historical locations such as Civil War battlefields and the sites of famous events in the civil rights movement.

The Arkansas tourism industry slumped during the pandemic, but has recovered strongly. The 2 percent tourism tax is an accurate gauge of the strength of the tourism sector. From 2019 to 2020 revenue dropped from $17.9 million to $14.2 million. However, since then it has increased steadily to more than $25 million. It is levied on hotels and tourist attractions.

Visitor spending in 2023 was about $9.9 billion, an increase of 7.5 percent over spending in 2022. Spending categories include transportation, retail, lodging, food and beverages and entertainment. Arkansas tourism supported more than 70,000 jobs last year, an increase of 2.8 percent over 2022.

In addition to revenue from the 2 percent tourism tax, visitor spending generated $574 million in state taxes and $232 million in local taxes. Those figures represent increases of about 7 percent over the previous year.

State parks had 8.4 million visitors and national parks registered 4.3 million visitors last year. The state operates Welcome Centers on the major highways near the state’s borders. Those centers had almost 1.2 million visitors last year, a 5.6 percent increase over 2022.

The state spent $20.7 million on marketing campaigns last year. Digital advertising continues to grow in importance, and last year helped prompt 4.6 million online searches for information about Arkansas hotels. Those searches led to 311,000 actual bookings.

Arkansas tourism officials say that they want to expand marketing campaigns nationally and internationally, so that people consider visiting the state in every season.

Tips for safe trick-or-treating and candy consumption this Halloween

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Tammy Teague

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3:06 pm

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Tips for safe trick-or-treating and candy consumption this Halloween

By Rebekah Hall
U of A System Division of Agriculture

To ensure all children enjoy spooky fun this Halloween, it’s important for parents to establish safe trick-or-treating plans and include children with food allergies in the holiday’s festivities.

Quad Whitson, extension culinary nutrition program associate for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said it’s critical for parents to always accompany young children during trick-or-treating.

“If trick-or-treating at night, stay close and always keep a watchful eye on them,” Whitson said. “Some Halloween activities are offered earlier throughout the day at churches, local businesses, community centers, schools or “trunk-or-treat” events in parking lots. Attending these types of events can be safer, and this also allows your child to stick to their regular bedtime.”

For older children who have been given permission to trick-or-treat with their friends, Whitson said parents should establish and review an acceptable and safe route for them to follow.

“Emphasize staying together as a group and help brainstorm ideas to ensure everyone makes it home safely by a predetermined time,” he said.

Parents should also discuss the importance of minimizing distractions while walking, especially for children with access to electronic devices.

“Staying on well-lit streets and utilizing sidewalks and established crosswalks can reduce the risk of unfortunate vehicular accidents,” Whitson said. “Motorists often have trouble seeing children, especially if their costume colors don’t stand out and blend in with the surrounding environment. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes for better visibility.”

Whitson said parents should also keep the following practices in mind:

Remind children never to enter a stranger’s house or receive a ride home from a person or people they do not know.
Before letting children eat any candy, sort and check them to ensure they have not been tampered with. Closely examine all treats and throw away anything unwrapped, spoiled or suspicious. If in doubt, throw it out!
Depending on a child’s age, some treats can be a choking hazard. Babies and toddlers should not have any hard candy, popcorn, gum, small candy, or anything with nuts or seeds.

Establishing healthy relationships with sweets

Whitson said that though parents may be tempted to enforce strict, rigid rules around candy consumption for their children, this can be an opportunity for children to “learn mindfulness and stay calm around sweet treats.”

“As parents, you have the best interest in mind for your child, which may result in concerns that your child may ‘eat too much candy’ or become ‘addicted’ to sugar on this holiday when sweets are so abundant,” Whitson said. “These fears that parents have for their children can usually be attributed to their own experiences as kids. Maybe you were told that if you eat too much ‘junk food’ or candy, you’d ‘ruin your teeth’ or perhaps even ‘gain weight.’

“It’s integral that positive relationships are created around all food, including sweets,” Whitson said. “The best way to do this is to not micromanage your child during this joyous time, and instead allow them to learn from their experiences — most kids learn that having way too much candy is not necessarily a good thing and will learn to regulate their intake of treats down the road.”

Whitson suggested that instead of getting angry and punishing children for overeating candy, approach the situation with kindness and care, and discuss the problem together.

“Ask why they think they feel sick, what they could do next time to avoid the same feeling, and ultimately explain that overeating candy takes the fun out of Halloween.”

In the first two years of life, children do not need candy and other treats high in sugar, such as soda and sports drinks. For children aged two to four who have not had much opportunity to develop self-regulation skills, they will need help managing their candy stash.

“Try helping them out by giving them a daily amount of candy spread throughout the day that seems fair — maybe two or three pieces — and allowing them to decide when they will have it, such as one with their snack, lunch and dinner,” Whitson said. “Children older than four years old are likely ready to begin managing their candy stash with boundaries, such as when and where parents designate eating to occur.”

Whitson said taking this approach can help deal with some of the adverse effects of high sugar consumption, such as cavities and digestive issues.

Even with food allergies, make time for fun

Whitson said it is essential that children with food allergies are not left out during Halloween fun with friends and family.

“Accommodate your child,” Whitson said. “Halloween can be scary for parents of children with food allergies but allowing them to participate in events such as trick-or-treating with their friends can still happen.

“To better accommodate them, establish ‘safe homes’ on your predetermined route by talking to friends or neighbors to see if they could have allergy-friendly or non-food treats available for your child when they come by, so they can still participate and get that classic Halloween experience,” Whitson said.

Parents could also try the following ideas:

Consider a “trading system” with your child. This system consists of your child trading out a candy or treat they receive for safe candy or snacks, or perhaps toys, that they would typically enjoy.
Make Halloween about more than just candy. Brainstorm with your child about other aspects of the holiday, such as creating their costume, carving pumpkins, or planning a Halloween party with games and carefully chosen food items.

Parents should always carry epinephrine and other life-saving medications. Be sure to always have a child’s epinephrine device on hand in case of an emergency.

“Accidents happen sometimes, but being prepared can help ease tension surrounding this time, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone,” Whitson said.

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on X and Instagram at @AR_Extension. To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on X at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on X at @AgInArk.

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 five system campuses.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Consider a “trading system” with your child. This system consists of your child trading

out a candy or treat they receive for safe candy or snacks, or perhaps toys, that they

would typically enjoy.

• Make Halloween about more than just candy. Brainstorm with your child about other

aspects of the holiday, such as creating their costume, carving pumpkins, or planning a

Halloween party with games and carefully chosen food items.

Parents should always carry epinephrine and other life-saving medications. Be sure to always

have a child’s epinephrine device on hand in case of an emergency.

“Accidents happen sometimes, but being prepared can help ease tension surrounding this time,

making the experience more enjoyable for everyone,” Whitson said.

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension

Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on X and Instagram at @AR_Extension.

To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment

Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on X at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about

the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on X at @AgInArk.

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 five system campuses.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research

programs to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual

orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information,

or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Forgotten Expedition

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Tammy Teague

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3:01 pm

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Like any proud new land owner, it was time to explore your new land-ownings. The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 doubled the size of the United States and, most being bought sight unseen, it was imperative that the U.S. explore and mark the boundaries of their new territory. Making the matter of greater importance was the fact that Spain and Great Britain claimed some of the same land and permanent boundaries needed established.

Every school child has studied the Lewis and Clark expedition that traversed the country by proceeding up the Missouri River and across the Rockies to the Pacific Ocean. Actually, that was just one of the four missions of exploration and the other three are virtually forgotten. In 1806, the Pike Expedition traveled up the Missouri, crossed over to the Arkansas River Basin, and explored much of Colorado and the inter-basin region. Another group attempted a journey up the Red River with little success.

The fourth group is known and the Dunbar expedition and the notes, artistic sketches, and scientific information collected by this group provides great insight into the animal and plant life of Arkansas and Louisiana. William Dunbar, an aristocratic landowner in Vicksburg, Mississippi was a well-known and respected friend of Thomas Jefferson. With his close ties to the region and its people, he was a natural for Jefferson to select to lead the expedition. To assist, Jefferson assigned a chemist and druggist by the name of George Hunter. Hunter has previously explored areas of the Ohio and Indiana frontier and was known for his ability to record the scientific data collected.

Originally the expedition would have traversed the southern portion of the purchase, traveling up the Red and Arkansas River and into the interior of the new nation. If not for the uprising of the Osage Indian tribe, the expedition would have rivaled that of Lewis and Clark. Fearing trouble from the warring tribes, the trip was scaled back to an exploration up the Red River and into Arkansas through the Ouachita River. Today, we know the Ouachita River begins in the mountains of western Arkansas near Mena, Arkansas and winds for six-hundred miles through Arkansas and Louisiana before joining the Red and Black River as a tributary of the Mississippi. A beautiful scenic river, the Ouachita comes from the Indian word Washita which means sparkling silver water.

Dunbar and Hunter were provided 3,000 dollars to fund their journey. Purchasing supplies and a boat, they journey upstream from the Mississippi and Red River and entered the Ouachita. Near present day Monroe, Louisiana the water became too shallow for their boat requiring them to rent a keel boat with little draft as they proceeded up-stream. Hunter took copious notes along the way and both he and Dunbar recorded various encounters with the native Indian tribes as well as with the scattered French, Spanish, and English settlers already living within the area. By November, the crossed into what is now Union County and Camden. They proceeded upstream, having heard of and wishing to explore, the healing hot springs of central Arkansas. The men struggled against the river current as they hauled, rowed, or pulled the boats upstream. Near modern day Malvern the men heard a tremendous noise, compared by Dunbar to the sounds of a hurricane he once encountered in New Orleans. Stretching before them was white water ripping through a land-mine of boulders. Stretching for a mile, the rapids known as the chutes, was a formidable obstacle.

Eventually overcoming the obstacle of the chutes, Dunbar and his men reached the mouth of Gulpha creek and thus travelled overland to the Hot Springs. They noted that there was one ormore uninhabited cabins near the springs, thought to have been constructed for individuals that came to sample the healing waters. Intrigued by the many stories, the men began an extensive study of the springs and of the animals and plants in the area. Christmas day found them recording the temperature and composition of the waters. They remained in the area until January 8, 1805. They were some of the first to describe the limestone formations, the organisms living in the hot waters, and even the temperatures of the various springs.

On the return trip, they meet the Frenchman Jean LeFevre who had lived in the region for years. Lefevre provided a wealth of information about the surrounding region and its people. Upon his return, Dunbar’s notes and journals were sent to Jefferson, arriving more than a year before Lewis and Clark returned from their expedition. Although smaller in scope, the President received his first glimpse into the new lands acquired through the Louisiana Purchase. Today, we might call Dunbar’s the Forgotten Expedition.

$85K Raised for Single Parent Students in Arkansas

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Tammy Teague

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2:59 pm

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$85K Raised for Single Parent Students in Arkansas

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund revealed the winners at The Lunch Break, which raised $85K for single parent scholarships.

Little Rock, Ark. (Oct. 22, 2024) — Nonprofit Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) celebrated the winners of its 2024 Outstanding Partner Awards at The Lunch Break, a statewide fundraiser held at Little Rock’s City Center on Oct. 17.

In total, The Lunch Break raised over $85,000 to help low-income single parents stay in school, graduate, and jumpstart professional careers with family-supporting wages. The awards program recognized ASPSF’s community partners for their exceptional generosity and commitment to single parent success. Here are the winners:

The Outstanding Corporate Partner Winner was Simmons Bank. Since at least 2016, Simmons Bank has been a steadfast financial supporter of ASPSF, generously donating thousands of dollars to help fund scholarships and support services for single parents. Simmons employees also volunteer and serve on the nonprofit’s Board of Directors. (Finalists: Southern Bancorp and Wear & Share Inc.)

The Outstanding School Partner Winner, Enrollment Over 2,500, wasUniversity of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College. UA – PTC’s unwavering commitment, both in resources and in the passion of its faculty and staff, truly aligns with ASPSF’s mission to uplift single parents and equip them for a brighter future. The school sponsors ASPSF events, works directly with its single parent students, and volunteers with the ASPSF. (Finalists: Texarkana College and University of Arkansas at Little Rock)

The Outstanding School Partner Winner, Enrollment Under 2,500,was East Arkansas Community College. From financial aid and student support services to advisors and marketing, EACC is a strong supporter that helps ASPSF foster a culture of education among single parent families. Over the past two years, ASPSF student numbers have grown immensely, greatly due to the school’s actions to promote and support our mission of ending single parent poverty. (Finalists: Arkansas Northeastern College and North Arkansas College)

The Outstanding Philanthropy Partner Winner was Edelma Simes of West Helena. Simes has been an unwavering pillar of support for the ASPSF, dedicating her time, resources, and energy to the ASPSF cause with unparalleled generosity and dedication for over 20 years. (Finalists: Freda Calloway and Mary Kate Snow)

In addition to the awards program, the event included inspiringstories from current recipient Raquelle Roulette and past scholarship recipient Kwami Abul-Bey. Keynote speaker Dr. Sherece Y. West-Scantlebury of the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation also shared a message about the power of education to transform lives, uplift families, and create brighter futures for generations to come.

A special thank you to The Lunch Break Presenting Sponsor Carol and Witt Stephens and Gold Sponsors Baptist Health, Conger Wealth Management, Little Rock Public Radio, Simmons Bank, The Rebsamen Fund, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College. A list of allsponsors is available online at aspsf.org/lunchbreak.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact ASPSF Communications Director Jen Para at [email protected] or 501-550-6304.

About Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund: For more than 30 years, Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund has worked to create stronger, more educated, and more self-sufficient families. Through scholarships and services, ASPSF opens doors for low-income single parents, helping them pursue education, secure employment, and transform the future for their families. With the help of volunteers and community support, ASPSF creates multigenerational change, transforming lives for both single parents and their children. For information about scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give, visit www.aspsf.org.

Waldron School Board Meets

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Tammy Teague

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2:58 pm

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The regular monthly meeting of the Waldron School Board was held in the Central Office Building Monday, October 21, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. Board members present were Clay Woodall, Konnor McKay, Stan Cottrell and Angela Hunsucker. Board member Mac Davis was absent. Others present were Superintendent Daniel Fielding, Misty Owens, Cheyenne Smith, Kim Solomon, Darla Jeffery, Toni Dozier, Tonya Cluck, Chris Lipham, Amanda Falconer, Kristi Sigman and Zack Taylor.

President Woodall called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.

Mr. McKay began the meeting with a word of prayer.

Mrs. Hunsucker led the Pledge of Allegiance.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to approve the Consent Agenda items: A) Approval of the September 9^t^h and September 24^th Minutes; B) Approve Financial Reports and Expenditures; C) Approve Purchase Orders to ITSAVVY; D) Approve Proposal for Safe Fleet; E) Approve Invoices to Midwest Bus Sales; F) Approve Purchase Order for Pearson Virtual School. Motion carried 4-0.

Each of the principals spoke on things that are happening at their building. At ABC, Mrs. Solomon reported that the kids took a trip to the Pumpkin Patch and Bell Park. She also advised that there will be a Flu Clinic on October 28^th. Atlas scores are out and each of the principals will be going to the Co-op to learn how to read the data since this is the first year this test has been taken. Mrs. Jeffery stated that Thursday, October 24^th will be picture day at Elementary School. The Fall Festival will be Saturday, October 27^th from 10:00 to 1:00 on Main Street. Mr. Taylor informed the board members that 8^th graders have now completed the Hunter’s Education course in October. Red Ribbon week is next week and there will be a guest speaker. Mr. Atchley commented on the great turnout of Homecoming week and Future’s Day on October 9^th. There will be a free ACT for Juniors coming soon. Band and Choir have had outstanding ratings and Band will be going to state competition on November 4^th. Mr. Lipham stated that we need bus driver subs once again. Fall sports are winding down and basketball will be starting soon.

Superintendent Daniel Fielding reported that the school does not have anything to compare Atlas scores to this year being that this is the first time we have taken this test.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Stan Cottrell to accept the resignation of Alyssa Jones as FirstStep Paraprofessional as of 10-4-2024. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Konnor McKay to transfer Ashton Parsons from First Step paraprofessional to ABC contracted paraprofessional as of December 1, 2024, providing she completes and maintains all required certifications for the position. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to hire Bethlene Davenport for the ABC toddler paraprofessional as of November 1, 2024, providing she completes and maintains all required certifications for the position. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded byKonnor McKay to adjourn. Motion carried 4-0.

Meeting adjourned at 7:03p.m.

Mansfield Elementary School 2024-2025 First Quarter Honor Roll/Principal’s List

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Tammy Teague

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2:57 pm

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Mansfield Elementary School 2024-2025 First Quarter Honor Roll/Principal’s List

Kindergarten Honor Roll:

Leah Boyster, Nova Connor, Waylon Elmore, Aaron Fry, River Hamilton, Saylor Hamilton, Lynnex Marion, Evan McBride, Adrianne McCool, Ava McCutcheon, Athena McDonald, Lynnlee O’Bar, Sonny Oxford, Veda Purifoy, Jaylie Richmond, Harper Shrum, Minka Sterling, Camrie Witt

Kindergarten Principal’s List:

Noah Baker, Hudson Bond, Raelyn Dooley, Jude Garrison, Hope Harris, Drayden Hartman, Monica Herrera-Vidana, Logan Howell, Myles McCaslin, Rhett Moore, Cecilia Newman, Josie Nichols, Annagrace Overton, Lynnden Reano, Talon Shrum, Conor Smith, Ocie Walden, Case Walls

First Grade Honor Roll:

Ava Bowman, Jessica Boyd, Kylie Brown, Tucker Brumbelow, Jimmy Case, Matthew Francis, Emilee Freeman, Maci Grissom, Castyn Hancox, Weston Hattabaugh, Avery Hensley, Deklan Highsmith, Emerson Krigbaum, Kimber Kuettle, Savannah Morton, Finn Moss, Colten Ronzzo, Redwater Stick

First Grade Principal’s List:

Jani Cowan, Penelope Dang, Lawson Gitthens, Lainey Hattabaugh, Hadley Heydenreich, Aurora King-Drew, Emily Langford, Logan Leland, Leena Little, Addison Mize, Zayne Morrison, Zoey Nguyen, Lucas Pennington, Allison Nichols, Jessie Swearingen

Second Grade Honor Roll:

Stella Adams, Aurora Alvarez, Kenzi Battin, Damien Brown, Trynadee Bryen, Eli Clay, Dakota Coplin, Addison Deeds, Mason Dickinson, Marleigh Fuerst, Sawyer Godwin, Emily Griffin, Piper Hall, Chase Hansel, Roque Hattabaugh, Liam Helms, Wyatt Howard, Samuel Jordan, Cambrie Mason, Mylah McNeill, Cayson Milligan, Gabriella Moore, Della Newman, Ellie Polk, Eyana Reed, Jayce Reed, Tyler Smith, Aurora Sylva

Second Grade Principal’s List:

Wade Roper, Aiden Whittaker, Deacon Wilson

Third Grade Honor Roll:

Presley Adams, Rayleigh Bascue, Abbi Battin, Noah Branche, Anaya Brown, Kylor Cox, Skylar Deer, Annabell Elmore, Journey Elmore, Maddie Francis, Tobias Fuerst, Coda Griffin, Hadley Guillory, Legend Handlang, Ainsley Hawkins, Roslyn Himes, Divina Hunt, Edmund Krause, Toby Mahaffey, Corbin Mason, Asher Moore, Sarah Morton, Emery Newman, Ethan Nguyen, Skye Pruitt, Beau Shaver, Ava Silvey, Olivia Smith, Hugh Strozier, Colten Williams, Temperance Wingate, Easton Winters, Natalie Young

Third Grade Principal’s List:

Lincoln Bozant, Jerra Dewitt, Gus Krigbaum, Elijah McCutcheon, Adalynn Pennington, Elaine Robinson, Karleigh Boswell

Fourth Grade Honor Roll:

Ryleigh Andrews, Brently Battles, Paige Bryan, Jaxon Dickinson, Nora Godwin, Jedidiah Guinn, Madalyn Hope, Genesis Huff, Kamryn Jackson, Oliver Jones, Ella Jordan, Woodrow Krigbaum, Aria McCafferty, Raegan Nichols, Jessica Risner, Kyren Ross, Rebel Sanders, Jayden Schaefer, Wyatt Shelton, Hayden Smith, Jaymes Tynan, Ashlynn Uselton, Luke Wingate, Bobbie Wright, Erik Wright

Fourth Grade Principal’s List:

Alexis Bates, Ella Brown, Emma Carlton, Coraline Cook, Racyn Clopton, Hunter Elmore, Aiyanna Gordon, Peyton Grissom, Braylee Hamilton, Montana Hattabaugh, Layton Heydenreich, Alexandria Howell, Matthew Hudcovic, Brooklynn Johnson, Harper Jolley, Riley Kelley, Tyler Lawrence, AnniegayLe Minden, Kinsley Norton, Hailie Prater, Delani Purifoy, Brody Schefe, Ashlynn Thompson, Ethan Trinh, Skyla Webb

Obituary: Collins Lane (1943-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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11:42 am

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If you knew Collins, you knew that his relationship with Jesus was the most important relationship he had. He was passionate about sharing the Good News about Jesus’ gift of salvation for anyone who believed. He wanted everyone to believe and have the hope of eternity with God. He lived his life for Jesus and on the morning of October 17, 2024, Collins entered into the presence of His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Collins Andry Lane was born in Hon, Arkansas, on September 21,1943, to Campbell and Eran Lane. His childhood was challenging, but he worked hard and made the most of what little he had. He graduated from Waldron High School and shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War in 1965.

Collins married the love of his life, Carolyn Long, on July 21, 1965. Collins cherished his beautiful wife and preferred to be with her over anyone else. Their 59 years of commitment and love to each other is a beautiful picture of God’s commitment and love for each of us.

Collins could not wait to start a family, and their children meant the world to him: Cameron (Krista) Lane, Clark Lane, Courtney (Greg) Greenich, and Chad Lane. Collins worked hard to provide for his family, to ensure their safety, and to make sure they knew that what really matters is a relationship with Jesus.

Though Collins loved his children, he happily moved into the role of grandpa. Collins treasured his time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved being their “Popee” and he never failed to give a hug and a smile (and a piece of candy). He was loved dearly by Collin (Hannah) Lane and their children Harper, Hazel and Dean, Kendall (Tymon) Duinker and their children Huckston and Thatcher, Karah Lane, Kate (Neil) Smith, Keaton(Bre’) Duvall, Khloe Duvall, Kohlton Duvall and Kaden Duvall.

Collins knew that working hard would honor God, so he was determined to do his job well. After graduating from Arkansas Tech University, he became an insurance adjuster for Shelter Insurance. He worked for the company for 27 years.

When Collins dedicated his life to serving Jesus, he was willing and eager to fill whatever roll was needed. He absolutely loved being a part of the bus ministry at the church. His Saturday mornings were spent visiting the families and children and inviting them to church, then on Sunday he, along with the friends he served with, would pick them up and take them to church. He knew that this may be the only way for these children to hear about Jesus and His love for them. Along with the bus ministry, Collins taught Sunday School classes, spent many hours visiting people in the community, was a Deacon at Connect Church, and was the pastor at the Evening Shade Baptist church in Waldron, AR. Collins loved his community and did all he could to let everyone know how much Jesus loved them. He spent years knocking on doors and praying for people to know Jesus. In the mid-90’s, an opportunity opened to go abroad to share the Good News, and Collins was ready. Through the years, he was able to go and tell people about Jesus in Honduras, Guatemala, Columbia, Tajikistan and India.

Collins will always be remembered for his smile, his genuine love for people, and his heart for Jesus. We could not have asked for a better husband, friend, father, and Popee.

Collins would want you to know that, “since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ out Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)

A Celebration of Life will be held at Connect Church in Russellville on Saturday, November 2nd. There will be a time of visitation at 5:00 where the family will receive guests, and the Service will begin at 6:00. We welcome anyone who is able to attend.

Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the RussBus. This faith-based ministry is about helping people by showing them the love of Jesus in a tangible way. You can go to their website https://therussbus.org to donate.

Mansfield City Council Meets

News

Tammy Teague

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12:57 pm

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The Mansfield City Council met in regular session on Thursday evening, October 17. All members of the council were present including Julie Thomas, James Steele, Glen Hurt, Beverly Lyons, Sheri Hopkins, and Boyd Farmer. Also present, Mayor Buddy Black, and Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker.

After approving the September financials and minutes, the council heard the city services reports.

Fire Chief Michael Smith reported a total of 51 calls, eight fire and 43 EMS. Additionally, that the department trained alongside other agencies in a full-scale disaster drill with James Fork, simulating a dam break. Smith reported that the keypads at the station had to replaced due to a power surge or lightning strike. Also, that the station would be utilized as a polling place for the November election. Lastly, Smith reported that there are 10 active fire fighters on the department, in addition to his Assistance Chief, Albert Haysmer, and himself.

Police Chief Wayne Robb reported a total of 45 calls, 21 agency assists (four in Scott County and 17 in Sebastian). Additionally, four school calls, six medical calls, four incident/arrest reports, and four animal calls. In total, 20 citations and 26 violations were issued in Scott County, and 13 citations and 14 violations were issued in Sebastian County. Robb reported eight training hours for his department.

Public Works Director Derrick Pollard reported that his department had completed 135 service orders, and 39 One Call requests. Pollard also reported that the R&R gas line project was ongoing and in phase 2. Additionally, that three water leaks had been repaired, a new water tap added on Freedom Road, a manhole repaired on Highway 96, and the ditch on Otis Street restored. Pollard also reported that the advertised smoke test had been completed, and that his department continues working on cleaning up brush and trimming limbs along the roadways. Lastly, that the new city trash truck had been received and is in operation.

City Attorney Travis Plummer was not at the meeting in person but was present via video. Plummer stated that he had no new reports to give the council.

In matters of unfinished business, the council voted to repeal 2014-1 and replace it with Ordinance 2024-5 (starting salaries of elected officials). The council also discussed the management of the Dixie Theater, deciding that an ad would be placed to find a volunteer to help with setup, cleanup and the sound system.

The next item of business, the discussion of the Recorder/Treasurer position. The council voted to go into executive session and include the party who had applied for the position. Upon returning, Mayor Black stated that they discussed the position with the candidate. No action was taken.

Next, a discussion regarding the vacancy on the police department. The council advised that they had given raises to the current officers, and that there was no way to fund another paid position.

In matters of new business, the council approved unanimously the following:
Ordinance 2024-4 (Scott Co. millage continuing for 2025), a letter to Sebastian County Clerk Sharon Brooks to continue Sebastian County 2025 millage, and a letter to SRCA/Deanna Rice to support the senior center in 2025.

The council then voted to approve the sale of the older trash truck for $20,000, agreed to consider bids to sell the old dump truck and flatbed truck, and voted to approve the bid from KAST Contruction to build a new pump house at the city lake.

Before adjourning the meeting, it was announced that the Christmas parade would be coming up on Saturday, December 7. With no further business, the meeting of the Mansfield City Council was adjourned.

Arrest Reports 10/13

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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5:47 pm

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Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Rodney Bruce Berkshire of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 19 at 2 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Berkshire was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor and Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Daniel Ray Brown of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 16 at 9:13 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Brown was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Felony, Contempt of Court–(child support), FTAS, FTRespond Subpoena, FTComply WCO, Absconding, Parole Violation, Fleeing on Foot- Misd., Refusal to Submit to Arrest Misdemeanor, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine.

Meghan LaShea Bryant of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 13 at 11:27 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 14 at 1:44 a.m. Bryant was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Jacob William Clark of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 15 at 10:27 p.m. and released on signature bond October 16 at 2:30 a.m. Clark was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Kolton Brook Hughes of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 19 at 3:27 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 19 at 6:03 a.m. Hughes was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 2nd offense.

Susan Elaine Koch of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 14 at 1:01 a.m. and released on cash bond October 14 at 3:51 a.m. Koch was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Kristina Nicole Russell of Midland was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 17 at 6:32 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Russell was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule I/II Felony <2g.

William Barnaby Tafoya of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 15 at 6:05 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Tafoya was charged with DWI I – Drugs Misdemeanor.

Jonathan Wayne Vincent of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 19 at 4:10 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Vincent was charged with Domestic Battering in the Second Degree – Serious Physical Injury.

Arresting agency – Arkansas State Police Troop H:
Justin Scott Brown of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 15 at 11:10 a.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Brown was charged with absconding and parole violation.

Richard Victor Glasener, Fourth of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 15 at 9:32 a.m. and released on signature bond October 15 at 8:10 p.m. Glasner was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Steven Lyndell Goodson of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 15 at 4:35 p.m. and released on signature bond October 17 at 11:47 a.m. Goodson was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.

Terrell Marquis Lawson of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 18 at 11:02 a.m. and released on signature bond October 18 at 3:44 p.m. Lawson was charged with Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Department:
Darion Terrence Brumfield of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 18 at 10:31 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 19 at 1:04 a.m. Brumfield was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Nathan Conley of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 19 at 3 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 19 at 4:28 p.m. Conley was charged with Domestic Battering in the Third Degree – Purposely.

Isaac James Mannon of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 17 at 11:28 a.m. and transferred to an outside agency on October 18 at 11:59 a.m. Mannon was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor, Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Rodney Charles McKee of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 19 at 9:37 a.m. and remains at the SCADC on jail time. McKee was charged with No liability Insurance.

Jerome Andrew Schluterman of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 17 at 2:27 p.m. and remains at the SCADC on jail time. Schluterman was charged with Assault On Family Or Household Member-3rd Degree.

Arresting agency – Barling Police Department:
Patrick Parker Martin of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 16 at 10:09 a.m. and transferred to an outside agency on October 16 at 2:56 p.m. Martin was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Haley Hice, 22 of Charleston, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 14 at 12:38 a.m. Hice was charged with possession of a schedule VI-controlled substance with the purpose to deliver and hold for other agency.

Michael Jackson Johnathan, 50 of Houston, TX, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 15 at 12:41 p.m. Johnathan was charged with public intoxication – drinking in public.

Alexander Mason, 25 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 15 at 4:42 p.m. Mason was charged with three counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

Roger Justus, 28 of Subiaco, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 16 at 11:57 a.m. Justus was sentenced to days in jail.

Robert Smith, 42 of Waldron, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 17 at 9:22 p.m. Smith was charged with fleeing, refusal to submit to arrest, hold for other agency, resisting arrest, and criminal mischief in the second degree.

Benjamin Deer, 33 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 18 at 12:21 a.m. Deer was charged with contempt of court.

Zanna Lemmond, 33, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 18 at 6:21 p.m. Lemmond was charged with contempt of court.

Nicholas Anderson, 38 of Dover, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 19 at 8:46 p.m. Anderson was charged with domestic battering in the third degree.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Mark Anthony Buchanan, 54 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 19 at 3 p.m. Buchanan was charged with disorderly conduct, and misdemeanor criminal trespass.

Candace Marie Beshears, 35 of Clarksville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 18 at 1:17 p.m. Beshears was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Billy Lovell, 52 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 17 at 3:03 p.m. Lovell was charged with theft $25,000 or more – all others.

Jim Adron Ridenour, 46 of Mountainburg, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 17 at 1:12 p.m. Ridenour was charged with failure to comply with conditions of suspended sentence or probation.

Ronald Hawkins, 43 of Gould, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 17 at 8:48 a.m. Hawkins was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Lucas Grigsby, 41 of Altus, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 16 at 8:29 p.m. Grigsby was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor.

Cody Lee Hill, 22 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 16 at 4:05 p.m. Hill was charged with six counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Dawn Denise Cockerham, 36 of Mountainburg, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 15 at 7:28 p.m. Cockerham was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Jeffrey Aaron Privett, 33 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 14 at 10:29 p.m. Privett was charged with domestic battering – 3rd degree / purpose of causing injury, causes serious injury, absconding / white warrant.

Alston Lee Taylor, 29 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 13 at 7:03 p.m. Taylor was charged with two counts of failure to appear, no license plate light, owner failed to register vehicle – expired tags, no proof of liability insurance, driving while license suspended, obstructing governmental operations, absconding / white warrant, and failure to comply with conditions of pre-trail release.

Johnathan Dwayne Mcgee – Spencer, 33 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 13 at 2:45 a.m. Mcgee was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

**The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts.**

The Good Fight Continues The Good Fight

Networks

Adam Hecox

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11:41 am

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Three young men started a band at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1987. There’s nothing new about college kids starting a band. But the type of band they started drew in young men and sent some parents and elders into a fit of rage. The music was Christian music, but the sound wasn’t coming from a choir or hymnal, rather it was mixed with a rock/pop sound. The band was DC Talk. The Christian rock movement was real and DC Talk’s “Jesus Freak” was the anthem. An explosion of Christian rock bands took over in the late 80s and early 90s as young Christians blasted bands like Audio Adrenaline, Jars of Clay, Stryper, and DC Talk through their speakers. Those young Christians are now middle-aged parents and they are face to face with what their parents saw a couple of decades ago. Christian rock is back and just like back in the day when it all began, it may seem kind of taboo to some who are looking for that “old-time religion”.

So why would someone drag up the past to tell a story of the future? Well, simply because the man who is front and center of this new Christian rock movement in the area started as one of those “youngins” jamming to old-school Christian rock. He just happens to be the pastor of Huntington’s Assembly of God, the one and only, Travis Pettus. Pettus has transitioned the old-school ways into these new-school days by bringing Christian rock to the youth of the area by presenting a concert series called The Good Fight. Travis started pastoring at the Huntington Assembly of God in 2015 but played a key role in starting concerts at the church before stepping up to the pulpit. In 2012 the church started The Good Fight by bringing in a band called War of Ages and the event exploded from there. “We had the building built with a big stage and concerts and events in mind but was mainly just using the building for weekly youth services for quite some time,” said Pettus. “It wasn’t until 2012 that JC Patterson had the idea that we should use our building for a battle of the bands. The battle of the bands went well so after that, we started doing monthly Saturday night shows called “The Good Fight”. A young man named Justin McCubbins was the one booking the Saturday night shows and he was the one who had the idea of calling those shows “The Good Fight”. After that, the name just kind of stuck.”

Many folks know and recite the biblical verse of 2 Timothy 4:7 that says, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” and The Good Fight is all about keeping the faith in their concerts. “Our goal is to impact the world with God and His goodness,” said Pettus. “We want to show people that God is a God that is more real than the air we are breathing, to show people He loves them and that just one touch from Him can transform their lives forever. The Good Fight is now much more than just concerts, although concerts are a big part of what we do. Within the main goal of sharing Jesus with everyone, our other goals are to have a clean positive environment for people of all ages to come and enjoy concerts, have church, do gymnastics, have birthday parties, fellowship/hang out, and much more”. The proof of this is easy to see too. Sure, the music is modern and loud but the change The Good Fight has made is much much louder. One would expect young people to be impacted by the loud music and flashy scenes, but The Good Fight has made its way into all ages according to Pettus. “It’s much more than just young people getting changed at these shows. We are seeing as many or more adults coming to know Jesus at these shows. Over the years as far as lives impacted with the gospel of Jesus is literally in the thousands”. The amount of people who have come out to the Huntington Assembly of God over the years has been quite impressive. People come in from other towns, other states, and even other countries to experience The Good Fight. The concert series is pushing the good word and doing good work too. In fact, in a single concert this past summer, the church saw multiple salvations and even baptized 26 people….at the concert itself!

The Good Fight has brought in bands like Disciple, Seventh Day Slumber, Spoken, War of Ages Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh, and has even hosted bands from other countries like Kazha from Japan and Saving Grace from New Zealand. It would be easy for the success of such events to lose their luster or even forget their purpose. Things like money, popularity, and worldly conflicts could sneak their way into such an event to sour the goal of spreading the Word of God. But that isn’t the case for Travis Pettus and his Good Fight. It’s his personal walk with Christ that keeps his purpose going and nothing could have made that purpose clear what he witnessed in July of 2023. As a pastor, Travis’s goal is to bring people to Christ, but little did he know that one day he himself would baptize 34 people at a Good Fight show. Baptizing 34 people is a big deal, but mixed in that group of people were both of his parents, his wife, and his youngest son. “I cried for days after that night,” said Pettus. “I can still barely watch the video to this day without crying”.

The Good Fight has run the race and done a solid job of keeping the faith, but what’s next? Initially, the next goal is the Thanksgiving Throwdown on November 24 with Disciple, Seventh Day Slumber, and Magdalene Rose. Yet another concert to draw the Word of God into the hearts and souls. But with the current venue, the Good Fight can only bring in so many at one time. What Pettus would like to do is bring in a crowd that surpasses the population of an entire town. “Our goal is to get more people in The Good Fight for this show than is in Huntington’s population,” says Pettus. “To give over 500 people the opportunity to worship and come to God in a singular venture would be awesome. With money raised from the Thanksgiving Throwdown show we hope to continue construction in the venue. We are currently building a new children’s sanctuary inside the venue, and we have plans to build much more”. As The Good Fight grows, so does the church. Even though the concerts are crowd drawers, the church is the crowd keeper. Unfortunately, with the success of The Good Fight, the church is outgrowing its current four walls. That’s not a bad thing though. So, the Huntington Assembly of God plans to bring the two venues together as one in the next few years. This will allow the church and concert series to grow together and be functional enough to have Good Fight concerts and Sunday morning services in.

Just as in the beginning of Christian rock, the music has changed but the goal is still the same….to bring the world to Christ. DC Talk, Jars of Clay, and others of the Christian rock push of the late 80s and early 90s were different, just like The Good Fight. But their impact was unimaginable. There is a war going on between good and evil that has gone on since the beginning of time. While the bad in this world seems to grow more and more each day, some continue to walk the straight and narrow. “I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us”? The Huntington Assembly of God, The Good Fight, and pastor Travis Pettus have proudly stood up and said “Here am I, send me”

R

RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK