Resident News Network

Waldron School Board Meets

News

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8:57 am

The regular monthly meeting of the Waldron School Board was held in the Central Office Building Monday, June 10, 2024,at 6:30 p.m. Board members present were Mac Davis, Angela Hunsucker, Konnor McKay and Stan Cottrell. Board member Clay Woodall was not present. Others present were Superintendent Daniel Fielding, Misty Owens, Chris Lipham, Darla Jeffery, Tonya Cluck, Cheyenne Smith, Zack Taylor, Toni Dozier, Josh Atchley and Kristi Sigman.

Vice-President Davis called the meeting to order at 6:32p.m.

Mr. Davis welcomed everyone.

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

Mrs. Angela Hunsucker led the Pledge of Allegiance.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve the Consent Agenda items: A) Approval of the May 13^th Minutes; B) Approve Financial Reports and Expenditures; C) Approve Invoice to Doggett Freightliner; D) Approve SHI Purchase Order for Annual Microsoft License; E) Approve Nearpod Purchase Order for Subscription; F) Approve AR App 2024-25 Assurances and GEPA Statement. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to approve the Petition for Transfer of Students. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve the 2024-25 School Level Improvement Plans. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to add Item C) Approve ASBA Invoices for the 2024/25 school years. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Stan Cottrell to approve the ASBA Invoices for the 2024/25 school year. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to add Item D) Approve Invoice to County Line School District. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to approve the Invoice to County Line School District. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to add Item E) Resolution to Comply with Act 1105. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to approve the resolution to comply with ACT 1105 of the 2017 regular legislative session regarding 20% carryover balance. The Board authorizes the Superintendent and district treasurer to move any amount above $2,000,000 ending balance in the 2000 funds to the building fund after categorical and restricted funds are first deducted from the ending balance. Motion carried 4-0.

Mrs. Jeffery reported that there is an average of 60 students attending summer camp. Assistant Superintendent Chris Lipham reminded the board members of the Dog Days of Summer, with several events happening at the football stadium on June 22^nd.

Superintendent Daniel Fielding reported that the Learns Act is offering funding to help with tutoring options, more to come on that in the future.

Adjourned to executive session. Time dismissed: 6:53 Time returned: 7:34

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to accept the resignation of Ericka Shrum as HS Teacher as of the end of 2023/24 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to accept the resignation of Cheyenne Owens, Bus Driver as of the end of 2023/24 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Stan Cottrell to hire Nonnie Thompson as High School Paraprofessional and Cassie Staggs as Elementary School Paraprofessional for the 2024/25 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to hire Donald McBride as Elementary Music Teacher for the 2024/25 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Stan Cottrell to hire Matt Euler as Middle School Assistant Principal for the 2024/25 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to hire Tyler Hankins as MS Computer ScienceTeacher, Assistant Sr. High Football, Assistant Jr. High Football, Assistant 7^th Grade Football, Assistant 7^th Grade Basketball, Assistant Sr. High Basketball and Assistant Baseball Coach for the 2024/25 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Stan Cottrell to hire David Jones as Level 1 Bus Driver with 9 years’ experience as of the 2024/25 SY. Motion carried 4-0.

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Konnor McKay to adjourn. Motion carried 4-0.

Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

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Arrest Reports 6/2

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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7:28 pm

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Arresting agency – Mansfield Police Department:
Jacob Richmond Alson Amos of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 4 at 2:16 a.m. and released on cash bond June 4 at 4:35 a.m. Amos was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Rodney Bruce Berkshire of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 5 at 4:16 am. and remains at the SCADC on time served. Berkshire was charged with Disorderly Conduct – Excessive Noise, and Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

William Douglas Taylor of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 3 at 12:43 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Taylor was charged with two counts of Battery in the Second Degree – Doctor.

Arresting agency – Hartford Police Department:
Amber Michelle Bowman of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 7 at 1:01 p.m. and released on bond June 7 at 7:52 p.m. Bowman was charged with Forgery in the Second Degree-deed, will, contract, check, and Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Branson Ray Carver of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 7 at 1:02 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Carver was charged with Domestic Battering in the Third Degree – Purposely.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Department:
Kenneth Destin Clark, Junior of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 8 at 3:39 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Clark was charged with Theft by Receiving >$25k.

Devann Earl Kelley Elmore of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 8 at 8:05 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with $100,000 legally sufficient bond. Elmore was charged with Sexual Assault in the Second Degree <14.

Michael Lee Freeman of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 6 at 3:36 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Freeman was charged with ADC commitment hold and return to testify.

Sandra Laverne Hutchins of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 7 at 12:01 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Hutchins was charged with ADC commitment hold.

Randy Moses of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 2 at 2:19 a.m. at 2:19 a.m. and released on signature bond June 2 at 10:30 a.m. Moses was charged with Public Intoxication – Annoyance.

Emily Hope Owens of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 8 at 10:34 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Owens was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Justin Lee Schalski of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 2 at 1:36 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Schalski was charged with Aggravated Assault on a Family or Household Member – Choke.

Hannah Elaine Shultz of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 4 at 7:35 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Shultz was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, and Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Alicia Lynn Tanner of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 8 at 2:18 p.m. and released on signature bond June 8 at 2:46 p.m. Tanner was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Kendra Nicole Tanner of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 7 at 4:45 p.m. and released on June 9 at 2:18 p.m. Tanner was charged with Theft of Property – Debit Card.

Arron Wayne Taylor of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 5 at 1:41 p.m. and released on signature bond June 5 at 11:35 p.m. Taylor was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Tabatha Maria Cole of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 6 at 6:36 p.m. and released on bond June 7 at 12:10 a.m. Cole was charged with Failure to appear at FINS review, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Nathan Lee Helms of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 2 at 2:14 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond June 2 at 10:36 a.m. Helms was charged with Domestic Battering in the Third Degree – Recklessly.

Trey Lance Willet of Arkoma, OK was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 3 at 9:04 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond June 3 at 10:43 p.m. Willet was charged with petition to revoke – misd.

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Kayleigh Jones of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 7 at 9:54 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond June 8 at 1:01 a.m. Jones was charged with Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident $1k – 10k.

Brandi Leeanna Lindstrom of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 7 at 12:56 a.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Lindstrom was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony.

Mackenzie Nicole Webster of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 6 at 4:49 a.m. and released on signature bond June 6 at 6:18 a.m. Minor in Possession of Alcohol, and Public Intoxication – Annoyance.

Arresting agency – Bonanza Police Department:
Zachary Alexander Pursley of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 5 at 5:28 p.m. and released on signature bond June 5 at 9:41 p.m. Pursley was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Department:
Juballe Moore, 23 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 5 at 12:32 p.m. Moore was charged with hold for out of state jurisdiction.

Tatiana Wyatt, 28 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 5 at 6:25 p.m. Wyatt was charged with aggravated assault on a family or household member, and domestic battering in the third degree.

Frankie Cantrell, 64 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 7 at 2:39 p.m. Cantrell was charged with hold for other agency.

Jacob Shackleford, 48 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 7 at 3:15 p.m. Shackleford was charged with bond revocation.

Timmy Pettigrew, 34 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 8 at 10:39 p.m. Pettigrew was charged with probation violation.

Sharina Snow, 36 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 9 at 5:21 p.m. Snow was charged with contempt of court.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Department:
CJ Roberts, 19 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 8 at 10:30 p.m. Roberts was charged with no proof liability insurance, improper signal, stop or turn, refusal to submit to chemical test, driving while intoxicated – DWI 1st, possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kyle Anthony Rofkahr, 33 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 8 at 8:32 p.m. Rofkahr was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Joshua Gregory White, 42 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 6 at 4:54 p.m. White was sentenced to the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Randall Martin Hice, 50 of Ratcliff, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 6 at 4:00 p.m. Hice was sentenced to the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Trey D. Jordan, 25, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 6 at 3:22 p.m. Jordan was sentenced to the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Patrick Michael Snow, 45 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 5 at 2:30 p.m. Snow was charged with absconding.

Douglas Blue Rogers, 47 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 2 at 5:55 p.m. Rogers was charged with indecent exposure, disorderly conduct, aggravated assault, possession of controlled substance schedule VI <4 oz., and possession of drug paraphernalia meth/cocaine.

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

“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

Food

Tammy Teague

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7:00 pm

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“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

By Sheri Hopkins

Hello everyone! It’s a beautiful day here in the River Valley. I hope y’all got some good laughs over that dog hiking its leg and peeing on me. Well, I thought I had washed my shoe really good, and I went to my son’s house on Memorial Day and as soon as I got set down here come my grand dogs and they both went straight to my left foot and started smelling my shoe. I am marked for life, I guess.

I’m telling ya crazy things happen to me. I’m 60 years old and this is another thing you young whipper snappers need to know once you get older. You cannot sleep at night. I literally can go to bed and fall asleep and wake every two hours just like a baby. I could probably eat but won’t let myself. It’s awful, thankfully I don’t require a lot of sleep and never sleep in. I don’t know if y’all know this about me, but I don’t like spiders. I got bit by one when I was young and had to have the bite lanced so ever since, I am scared of them. Back to my story, I was in bed one night and I woke up and thought there was a spider on my face. Well, I am flouncing around like fish in that bed, going wild, slinging covers and I am half asleep. Then, I decided it bit me, and it was a brown recluse, and my face was going to rot off.

Who knows what really happened. When I woke up, I couldn’t find a spider or a spider bite, so I don’t know if I dreamed it, or it really happened. One morning I got up half asleep and went in the kitchen to take my medicine. I have a glass on the sink that I use. I felt something on my throat, and I think there was a spider in that cup, and I swallowed it. You know I was gagging and carrying on over that. So, if y’all see me hanging from a web on the side of a building, keep in mind it’s going to have to be a strong one, think nothing of it. I had enough encounters with spiders to be Spiderwoman, the senior citizen version.

Hope y’all have a good week. Enjoy the hot weather, because that’s what we are having.

This week’s recipe is a four-layer delight and I have all those white chocolate chips, so I am going to make it.

VANILLA DREAMBOAT DESSERT
1 package of golden Oreos crushed fine
6 tablespoons of butter melted
1 tub of Philadelphia no bake cheesecake filling
1 regular tub of Cool Whip
2 packages instant vanilla pudding
3 1/4 cups of whole milk
1 bag of white chocolate chips
In a large bowl, combine the Oreos and butter until fully coated. Press into an ungreased 9×13 dish. Spread the cheesecake filling on top of the Oreos (you can make your own with cream cheese if you prefer). Mix the pudding and milk together with a whisk until well combined and starts to thicken and spread on the cream cheese layer. Let this set in the refrigerator for a little bit and then put Cool Whip on the top and sprinkle the white chocolate chips on top. Keep in the refrigerator and let cool for about four hours before serving. Enjoy!

Logan County’s Mills and Reddy Arkansas 4-H Teen Stars

Featured

Tammy Teague

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3:17 pm

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Logan County’s Mills and Reddy Arkansas 4-H Teen Stars

By Tracy Courage
U of A System Division of Agriculture

Arkansas 4-H recognized a new crop of young leaders on Wednesday, naming 50 new Teen Stars and inducting one teen into the Arkansas 4-H Hall of Fame.

The honors were bestowed June 5 during the Arkansas 4-H Teen Leader Conference that brought more 143 teenagers from across the state to the C.A. Vines Arkansas 4-H Center for leadership development this week.

The three-day conference is open to 4-H members ages 14-19 and prepares teens for leadership and service responsibilities in their local clubs and counties.

Hall of Fame

Zach Gardner, 18, of Fayetteville, was inducted into the Arkansas 4-H Hall of Fame, an award given to one 4-H member each year who demonstrates high achievement, commitment and service.

“Zach represents the highest level of achievement in Arkansas 4-H,” said Debbie Nistler, assistant vice president for 4-H & Youth Development for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “He has developed life skills that will continue to serve him well as an engaged member of his community. We are so excited to see him succeed in his next adventure.”

Gardner has been a member of Washington County 4-H member for 13 years, and leadership is one of his project areas.He served as an Arkansas 4-H state officer from 2022-2023 and has represented Arkansas 4-H at National 4-H Congress in Atlanta and at Citizenship Washington Focus in Washington D.C.

More than 1,000 hours of his community service has revolved around honoring veterans. He volunteers at Fayetteville National Cemetery where he serves on the advisory board and has participated in the National Wreaths Across America project. He is a VA Hospital teen volunteer and has helped with the National Salute to Veterans on Valentine’s Day for eight years. During the pandemic, when visitors were not allowed inside the hospital, Gardner organized car parades through the hospital parking lots.

Gardner has been a leader not just in 4-H but also in scouting, sports and his community.

He attained his Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts and served two years as captain of his high school’s lacrosse team. He also served on U.S. Senator John Boozman’s Congressional Youth Leadership Cabinet, attended Boys State, and served on the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Teen Leadership Council.

Gardner credits his mom, Jana, with getting him involved with 4-H at age 5.

“I’ve been in 4-H forever and have had many leaders who I’ve looked up to,” he said, after receiving his award. “To berecognized as one feels like a full-circle moment.”

Gardner recently graduated from Fayetteville High School in the top 1 percent of his class. He will attend the University of Arkansas this fall to pursue a finance degree and later plans to go to law school.

“4-H has shown me success is not based on winning elections, competitions or awards, but instead results from the process and steps along the way that help me understand who I am, what I believe, and what I am capable of,” he said. “4-H has motivated me to serve others, live my life with purpose, and use my time, talents and abilities to make a difference.”

Jack Berryhill of Hot Spring County was recognized as a Hall of Fame finalist. Berryhill served as the Arkansas 4-H state president from 2022-2023 and has held numerous leadership roles as a Teen Star and 4-H Ambassador. His project areas include foods and nutrition, animal science and leadership, which he is most passionate about.

“It’s about understanding others, what they’re working towards, and then how to work together to achieve a common goal,” he said.

Teen Stars

Arkansas 4-H recognizes members for outstanding achievement in their projects and activities, leadership and community service with the Teen Star recognition. To be a Teen Star, 4-H members must be at least 14 years old and have proven success in their project work.

“Our Teen Stars have worked very hard to earn this award,” Nistler said. “They are a wonderful reflection of the years of service, record books, and project experiences. I am so excited to see them grow even more in our program.”

This year’s 50 Teen Stars were selected from hundreds of applicants and represent 20 counties. The recognition paves the way for these young people to move into higher positions of leadership as 4-H Ambassadors, who can run for state officer positions.

This year’s new Teen Stars include:

Benton County — Kayley Ashlee, Noah Darnell, Garrett Haley, Lilyan Lubbess, Bailey Malone, Emma Millsap, Graceyn More, Belvia Powers, Lucas Rea and Lillian Swarengin

Carroll County — Kaitlyn Armer, Katelyn Rexwinkle and Dalton Warner

Clark County — Daniel Jackson, Emilie Taylor and Blakely Thompson

Craighead County — Justin Morris

Faulkner County — Chloe Parish

Grant County —Miley McGinley and Aubrey Ottens

Greene County — Joseph Haywood and Leona Hickman

Hot Spring County — Amanda Berryhill

Independence County — Logan Wiltrout

Logan County — Alyssa Mills and Emily Reddy

Madison County — Jade Emitt

Miller County — Carlie Keahey

Monroe County — Gracie Delk

Pope County — Aaron Nuckols

Pulaski County — Lillian Reynolds and Trusten Reynolds

Saline County — Lily Boris

Sevier County — Charlie Collins, Nick Diaz, Raegan Frachiseur, John Moe, Monica Rivas, Chip Stamps, Katie Williamson and Evan Wolcott

Stone County — Addison Kennon

Washington County — Joshua Bailey, Makyla Cox, Catelyn Stearman and Yahya Sridjajamerta

White County — Hannah Gaskin, Lynnlee Morrison, DeLylia Sanderlin and James Shourd

Arkansas 4-H is the youth development program conducted by the Cooperative Extension Service, part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. It offers programs for youth ages 5-19 in every county in Arkansas.

To learn about Arkansas 4-H, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit Arkansas 4-H online at http://uaex.uada.edu/4h-youth/.

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 Xat @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. The Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation’s historic land grant education system through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service.

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.

Timepiece: Dardanelle Rock

Lifestyle

Tammy Teague

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7:16 pm

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

What could be better than a warm spring day and a beautiful and historical place to explore. The waters of the Arkansas River spoke a melodious tone as it rushed below the dam, tumbling over submerged snags and lapping against the wide sand bar that fronted both sides of the river at Dardanelle. Scattered groups of people threw weighted lines into the waters, hoping to snag some of the large catfish known to inhabit the area. Others sat around campfires built on the sandbar, bringing back memories of the days I spent with my family doing the same things.

Towering over the site, Dardanelle rock juts upward hundreds of feet into the air. A small but steep trail allows access to the exposed sandstone overlook. Historically, the cliff face was a marker for both natives and early settlers and was used bylookouts scouting the river during the Civil War. The old ferry to Norristown (Russellville) was located just below the rock and it was used by armies of both sides as they traversed the state. A nearby marker notes Sgt. William Ellis was awarded the Congressional Medal for the heroism he displayed during an 1865 battle in Dardanelle.

A romantic, but probably non-historical tale, cites that the rock was so named when a Cherokee brave by the name of Dardanelle stood on the rock awaiting a sign from his Choctaw lover Leonietta that she would join him. When she failed to appear, he jumped to his death below and the rock was thus named for him. More likely, the craggy cliff was named after the ocean passageway found in Asia-Minor or after Jean Baptiste Dardenne, an early French land-owner.

A short distance downstream is the Council Tree. A huge white oak, estimated to be 400-500 years old is said to be the site of the signing of a document referred to as the “Treaty of Council Oaks.”

On June 24, 1823, Acting Governor Robert Crittenden of the Arkansas Territory meet with a group of Arkansas Cherokee to work out a land agreement that would allow settlers to move into the western part of the state. Previous treaties had provided substantial territory in Arkansas and Oklahoma to the tribe in exchange for lands they were driven from in the East. Although land south of the Arkansas River technically belonged to the Choctaw, over 1,000 Cherokee occupied prime farm lands along the river tributaries. Meeting with Cherokee leaders including John Jolly, Black Fox, and Wat Webber, the group actually had little or no authority to construct a treaty but were able to dictate a letter presenting their respective cases to Secretary of War John C. Calhoun. The Cherokee agreed that the land south of the river was not theirs or the U.S. but, instead belonged to the Choctaw, who didn’t care one way or another whether it was occupied by Cherokee. The U.S. Government at the time wanted to see all land opened up to white settlement and in subsequent years worked out a series of treaties pushing the Cherokee and the Choctaw completely into Oklahoma territory. A nice park was constructed around the tree commemorating the event.

A town marked by historical events, the city is now billed as the fictional starting site for Mattie Ross as she begins her adventures in the movie True Grit.

My wife cares little for the history lesson. As I set and contemplate the cultural and historical significance of the area, she wonders up the beach with my son Lucas, enjoying splashing in the water and discovering unusual rocks along the path.

Lake Wilhelmina anglers encouraged to catch and keep all they can eat

Outdoors

Tammy Teague

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7:15 pm

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Lake Wilhelmina anglers encouraged to catch and keep all they can eat

By Randy Zellers

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has lifted all daily limits and size limits on all fish species at Lake Wilhelmina in Polk County. The action, approved at the Commission’s May 16 meeting, is in preparation for extensive repairs to failing infrastructure this summer.

The repairs to be made require the lake to be drawn down, so the AGFC is letting anglers catch and keep as many fish as they like to make the most use of the resource before the lake is temporarily drained.

Tommy Laird, AGFC fisheries chief, said repairs are expected to be complete by the end of summer 2025, and the lake should fill quickly post-renovation.

“Local anglers are going to be without this lake for a little while, so we want to make sure the fish are used by anglers instead of being trapped in shallow pools or pulled through the dam and into Powell Creek,” Laird said. “The watershed is very large, and we may see times when the lake fills substantially even when the renovation is taking place, but it will drain quickly, too. Once we’re finished with work, the lake will refill and we’ll stock forage species, followed by game fish like bluegill, catfish and bass.”

In 2019, uncontrollable falling water levels indicated a failure somewhere in the dam or water control tower. The lake level dropped so much that launching a boat became impossible. After a thorough inspection using side-scan sonar, AGFC staff discovered two holes in the lake bed between the water control tower and the dam. In 2020, AGFC contractors dropped a dozen 1,800-pound sandbags over the two holes to slow the leak for inspection.

The sandbags slowed the leak, but were never intended to be a final solution. Contractors inspected the leak from the downstream end of the discharge pipe once the flow had slowed and discovered the source of the problem.

“This structure has been underwater since 1958 and has gone well past its expected lifespan,” Laird said. “Holes in the 30-inch outflow pipe have formed, letting water flow through the structure between the control tower gates and the dam. We’ve been able to secure funding and develop a plan for a renovation, and we’re ready to implement a more permanent fix.”

In addition to the dam repair, AGFC staff plan to improve and extend the boat ramp on the lake, renovate the parking area, add a courtesy dock and complete many habitat enhancement projects to take advantage of the low water.

“Several road improvements are planned to provide more locations to pull alongside the lake and fish,” Laird said. “We’re working with (Polk) County Judge Brandon Ellison to try and get those road improvements, and he’s been great to work with.”

The project is expected to cost roughly $1.4 million, with $1 million of that coming from a special transfer from the Restricted Reserve Fund Game and Fish Grants Set-Aside authorized by the Arkansas General Assembly in 2023. AGFC Director Austin Booth said this authorization was critical in moving forward with the project.

“Lake Wilhelmina is a legacy fishery for the people of Polk County, an area of the state where infrastructure dollars can be tight,” Booth said. “We are extremely grateful to the General Assembly for helping us provide this much needed improvement for the people of Mena and the surrounding area.”

Lake Wilhelmina is a 200-acre reservoir built on Powell Creek six miles west of Mena. The lake’s dam was constructed in 1958. The lake is well known for good populations of bluegill as well as largemouth bass and channel catfish. The lake also is home to Arkansas’s state record black crappie, a 5-pound giant caught in 2011 by then 11-year-old Donivan Echols of Mena.

Visit https://www.agfc.com/resources/habitat-and-access-improvement/lake-wilhelmina-renovation-project/ for more information about the Lake Wilhelmina Renovation Project.

Obituary: Pandora Bray (1952-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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2:03 pm

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Cheryl Pandora Bray, 71, went home to be with Jesus on June 3, 2024. After an accidental fall and awaiting a surgery to repair a broken neck, she took off her earthly body to go to heaven. She left this world with a soft smile on her face. Pandora was born September 25, 1952 in Mena, Arkansas to John and Patricia (Richmond) Frost.

Pandora married the love of her life, James, June 5, 1970. They lived a fun filled 50 years together until his death in 2020. Pandora worked as a secretary where she made lifelong friends and retired from North Little Rock School District in 2015.

Pandora enjoyed spending time with her friends and loved her family with every ounce of her being. She loved playing board games and card games and just sitting around talking and laughing. She enjoyed going out to eat, going on road trips, and traveling with her North Little Rock School District colleagues and friends on cruises. She loved buying pretty things to decorate her house and took lots of pride in making her home be the most warm and welcoming to anyone who wanted to stop by for a visit. She was a member of Brockington Road Church of the Nazarene and enjoyed her Sunday school classes and Sunday sermons immensely.

Pandora’s exuberance for life and genuine kindness touched all who crossed her path, leaving a lasting impact on each soul she encountered. Survived by her beloved son Corey Bray, daughter-in-law Sasha Bray; cherished granddaughter Mahalia Bray, and loving sister Rita Winn and brother-in-law Darron Winn. Pandora will be missed by all that knew her, including an extended family of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many friends. Her memory will forever be treasured by those who knew her.

Pandora was preceded in death by her husband James Bray and her parents John and Patricia Frost.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the public visitation, to be held at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas on June 8, 2024, at 12:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life ceremony, honoring Pandora’s legacy of love and joy, will follow at 2:00 pm at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow in the Hawkins Cemetery in Parks, Arkansas with Rev. Paul Kinsey and Rev. Roy Edwards officiating. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Pandora will be missed by all. May Pandora’s spirit of love and laughter live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her boundless warmth and kindness. She will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

Pandora’s pallbearers will be Darron Winn, Trevor Hattabaugh, Steve Hattabaugh, Chase Hattabaugh, John Keener and Tracy Epperson. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Sartin and David O’Dell.

Tedford Elected to Fill Vacated Seat on Greenwood City Council

News

Tammy Teague

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4:52 pm

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Tedford Elected to Fill Vacated Seat on Greenwood City Council

The Greenwood City Council met last month in regular session, and one item on the agenda, the appointment of a council member to fill the vacated seat left by former alderman Daniel McDaniel.

All members of the council were present including AC Brown, Ralph Meeker, Tim Terry, Roger Rainwater, and Rod Powell. Also present, Mayor Doug Kinslow, Clerk/Treasurer Sharla Derry, and City Attorney Travis Plummer.

Several interested in the position were in attendance and were given time to address the council. Among those, John VanGorder, Raymond Kennedy, Sr., Tom Ransom, Steve Tedford, and Cameron Kehler.

The council would adjourn into executive session to discuss the appointment to fill the vacancy in Ward 1 Position 1. After reconvening 30 minutes later, Councilmember Brown made the motion to appoint Steve Tedford. Councilmember Rainwater seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously.

Tedford stated: “(I’ve) lived here for a long time and have talked to a few of the council members about (my) interest in this. (I have been) self-employed in Greenwood since 1998 and know a lot of the council…(I have) a background that has spanned some of the departments here…when you get the opportunity, you feel compelled to serve and if (I) get the opportunity that’s great…There’s been some political things that have gone on over the years and (I) don’t harbor any of those…(I want) to bring a level head and make decisions on behalf of the community.”

Mayor Kinslow stated that Tedford would sit on the council following his swearing in. Mayor Kinslow also stated that this position will be open again in two years, at which time an election will be held. Mayor Kinslow encouraged the applicants to consider serving on any open commissions or committees the city might have.

88-Year-Old Paris Man Dies in Crash

News

Tammy Teague

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4:48 pm

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An early morning motor vehicle crash on June 2 left an 88-year-old Paris man dead, and four others injured. The crash happened at approximately 1:28 a.m. at the 5000 block of State Highway 22 in Carbon City.

According to the Arkansas State Police, Russell Bradley was traveling west on State Highway 22 in a 2007 Ford. Russell reportedly crossed left of the center lane and struck the left front end of a 2015 Ford driven by Dustin Schluterman, 38 of Paris.

Schluterman and three passengers sustained injuries and were transported to Mercy Hospital. Bradley was pronounced dead following the crash, and according to the ASP report, the next of kin had been notified.

Arrest Reports 5/26

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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3:46 pm

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Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Melody Ann Allen of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 31 at 8:11 p.m. and released on signature bond May 31 at 11:30 p.m. Allen was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Armando Guzman of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 1 at 10:26 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Guzman was charged with Assault On Family Or Household Member-3rd Degree.

Michael Alan Hutchins of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 28 at 9:47 p.m. and released on signature bond May 28 at 10:57 p.m. Hutchins was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Barling Police Department:
Branson Tyler Austin of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 30 at 12:55 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond May 30 at 7:59 a.m. Austin was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 2nd offense.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Kenneth Warren Barfield of Magazine was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 26 at 8:13 p.m. and released on signature bond May 26 at 8:13 p.m. Barfield was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor.

Christian Lewis Bednar of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 28 at 11:24 a.m. and released on signature bond May 28 at 2:18 p.m. Bednar was charged with Reckless Driving 1st Offense.

David Westbrook of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 28 at 4:36 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond June 1 at 12:24 p.m. Westbrook was charged with Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked and Driving While Intoxicated 2nd offense.

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Rodney Bruce Berkshire of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 29 at 10:10 a.m. and released on signature bond May 31 at 11:36 a.m. Berkshire was charged with Disorderly Conduct – Obscene Language or Gesture, and Assault in the 3rd Degree.

Austin Michael Hurst of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 1 at 5:30 p.m. and released on signature bond June 2 at 12:05 a.m. Hurst was charged with Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others, Disorderly Conduct – Fighting, and Obstructing Governmental Operations-ID.

Gabriela Marisol Hurst of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 1 at 5:26 p.m. and released on June 2 at 2:37 a.m. Hurst was charged with Resisting Arrest Misdemeanor, Disorderly Conduct – Fighting, and Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Department:
William Lamont Bowen of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 26 at 9:11 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Bowen was charged with Domestic Battering in the Third Degree – Purposely, Aggravated Assault – Choke, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Minor in the Third Degree.

Zachary Allen Chittenden of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 31 at 1:35 p.m. and released on May 31 at 3:29 p.m. Chittenden was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Felony, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Kyla Degen of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on June 1 at 9:18 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Degen was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony and return to testify.

Ronnie Alexandera Gillispie of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 28 at 11:44 a.m. and transferred to an outside agency on May 28 at 2:45 p.m. Gillispie was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Misd., and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Zachary Marcus Hatton of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 28 at 4:37 p.m. and transferred to another agency on May 30 at 4:55 p.m. Hatton was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, return to testify, and Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Maliki Ezekial Jackson of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 27 at 7:39 a.m. and released on signature bond and released to an outside agency on May 27 at 9:33 a.m. Jackson was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Misd., and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Cristi Lynn Weaver of Magazine was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 31 at 5:29 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without legally sufficient bond. Weaver was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Johnnie Lee Witt of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 27 at 4:41 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Witt was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Hackett Police Department:
Corbin Travette Huskey of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 31 at 6:47 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Huskey was charged with Sexual Assault in the Second Degree – Forcible Compulsion.

Arresting agency – Arkansas Parole:
Timothy Ryan Wood of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on May 29 at 10:02 a.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond as a parole hold. Wood was charged with parole violation.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Department:
Michael Inman, 52 of Delaware, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on May 23 at 2:47 p.m. Inman was charged with delivery of methamphetamine, heroin or cocaine.

Nicholas Schouweiler, 41, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on May 28 at 5:16 p.m. Schouweiler was charged with rape.

Boniface Ramos, 38 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on May 29 at 9:10 a.m. Ramos was charged as a parole hold.

Amanda Hood, 40 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on May 29 at 3:26 p.m. Hood was charged with possession of a controlled substance.

Mary Williams, 38 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on May 31 at 11:43 a.m. Williams was charged with two counts of bond surrender, contempt of court, and failure to appear.

Russell Allen, 42 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on May 31 at 11:44 a.m. Allen was charged with warrant served, and contempt of court.

Brittany Terry, 34 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on June 1 at 3:23 p.m. Terry was charged with contempt of court, and failure to appear.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Department:
Walter Dale Purdion, 34 of Clarksville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on June 1 at 7:50 p.m. Purdion was charged with hold for another agency.

Bobby Gerald Early, 77 of Altus, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 31 at 11:30 p.m. Early was charged with driving while intoxicated – DWI 1st, and careless and prohibited driving.

Jayme T Edwards, 37 of Clarksville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 31 at 6:51 p.m. Edwards was charged with public intoxication, and littering – 1st offense.

Arek Hanuska, 18 of Hartman, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 31 at 8:41 a.m. Hanuska was charged with hold for another agency.

Kelsey Knight-Robinson, 28, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 30 at 3:23 p.m. Robinson was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA), and failure to appear.

Brian Henderson, 53 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 30 at 8:41 a.m. Henderson was charged sentenced to days.

Amy Alyssa Lindsey, 29 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 29 at 4:36 p.m. Lindsey was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA), and failure to pay child-support.

Brianne Hald, 39 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 29 at 2:30 p.m. Hald was sentenced to days.

Melissa Leann Burlison, 30, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on May 28 at 1:49 p.m. Burlison was charged with ACT 309 inmate.

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

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RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK