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Obituary: James “Andy” Stokes (1965-2024)

Resident News Network
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Obituary: James “Andy” Stokes (1965-2024)

Funeral Service for James “Andy” Stokes, 59, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at 2:00 PM at Hartford Memorial Cemetery in Hartford, Arkansas under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

He was born on March 20, 1965 in Long Beach, California to Juanite (Butcher) Stokes and Charles Stokes and passed away on May 2, 2024 in Sallisaw, Oklahoma.  He was married to Debra (Novotny) Stokes on January 1, 2022 in Vian, Oklahoma.  He was a former iron worker and loved motorcycles, fishing and camping. He was a jokester and an excellent cook. His children and grandchildren were his life.

Survivors are wife, Debby of the home;

three daughters, Heather McCafferty of Huntington, AR, Shaylee Bates of the home and Rebecca Bates of the home;

three sons, Steven Stokes and Amanda of Huntington, AR, Jason Bates of the home and Daron Key and Jennifer of Hawaii;

seven grandchildren, Andrew, Alexander and Aria McCafferty, Luella Key, Addyson Marcotte, and Colton and Fallon Rowe; 

four great-grandchildren, Ashlynn Moore, Amerie Marcotte, Jace Marcotte and Nolan Rowe;

two brothers, Charles Lee Stokes and Nettee of Port Aransas, TX and John William Stokes;

and several other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by one daughter, Tasha Nicole Stokes; and his parents.

Active Pallbearers will be Shannon Pruitt, Dallas Kazy, Timmy Pruitt, Gary Pruitt, Corey Criddle and Anthony England. 

Viewing will be Noon – 8 PM Monday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, OK where the family will greet 6 – 8 PM.  

Leave ‘abandoned’ wildlife where you find it

Tammy Teague
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Leave ‘abandoned’ wildlife where you find it

Many species of wildlife have their young in spring, and many well-meaning Arkansans regularly call the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to report deer fawns and other young wildlife that look abandoned. But moving these animals can actually cause more harm than good.

Most wildlife cannot be with their young nonstop. They must search out food for their offspring or gain much-needed nutrition to continue nursing them. It’s not uncommon for a doe deer or rabbit to leave her young alone nearly all day while she eats and recuperates from the stress of nursing. Mother and father birds also take many trips scouring the nearby area for food they will bring back to the hatchlings.

It can be a shock to a person to see these young animals in such a helpless position, but this is how these species survive. In fact, the more trips back and forth a mother makes to her young in the wild, the more scent trails she leaves behind for predators to possibly follow.

Often, a doe deer is within hearing distance of her young, even though you may not see her. The best defenses fawns and rabbit kits have are to stay motionless so they blend into their surroundings and stay quiet so they don’t attract unwanted attention. Baby birds almost ready to fly hop around in the tree branches exercising their wings, and often end up on the ground a few times before finally getting the hang of things. Parent birds will continue to feed them on the ground until they fly off on their own.

Moving “orphaned” wildlife works against this plan. Instead of rescuing them, well-meaning people often mistakenly take them from their mothers and have little to no experience or idea on how to help that young animal. Wildlife rehabilitation permittees often are overwhelmed by kidnapped young owls and other birds that were mistakenly “rescued” by well-meaning people.

If you do find a young animal and have taken it from the area, the best practice is to place it back where you found it as soon as possible. In cases where the spot may have been unsafe because of a nearby road or predator, you can move the animal slightly and its mother will find it. Forget the wive’s tales about the mother rejecting the young because of your scent; when she comes back to the area, she will take care of her young regardless.

According to Dr. Jenn Ballard, state wildlife veterinarian for the AGFC, young deer and elk present an additional challenge because it is illegal for a rehabilitator to take them in.

“The transport of live deer can help spread chronic wasting disease, a fatal neurological disease in deer, elk and other cervids,” Ballard said. “Research in Arkansas indicates that it is possible for a fawn to be born with CWD, and that deer could not only infect others at a rehabilitation site, but contaminate their facility, making it possible to spread the disease to any future rehabilitated cervids.”

If you happen upon a fawn, you legally must leave it where you find it. Just because an adult deer was found dead nearby does not mean the fawn is alone. That deer that was hit by a car may not be the fawn’s mother. Even in cases where the mother has been killed, there is still a chance other does are nearby that will take in the fawn as their own if they find them. In either case, that animal’s best chance of living a healthy life in the wild is for people to step aside and let Mother Nature take care of things.

If you know the animal is injured or truly orphaned and it is not a bear, deer or elk, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission keeps a list of licensed rehabilitators available on its website at www.agfc.com/rehab.  These rehabilitators do not receive pay for their efforts, have limited space, and often are available only during certain hours, so calling ahead to find one that will take in the animal is highly recommended.

Mansfield Police Department Makes Felony Fleeing Arrest

Tammy Teague
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Mansfield Police Department Makes Felony Fleeing Arrest

On Saturday, April 27, Mansfield Police Officer Eric Townley was patrolling Highway 71 when he attempted a traffic stop on a speeding vehicle. That pursuit led to the driver abandoning his car and a subsequent foot chase.

According to Townley’s report, he observed a vehicle speeding at approximately 70 mph, and attempted to make a traffic stop. It was then the subject reportedly accelerated, reaching speeds of over 114 mph. The driver turned into the Sonic Drive-In, exited his vehicle and fled on foot.

Officer Townley would later identify the suspect as Issac Woolsey, 18, of Waldron. Woolsey fled to the area between Sonic and West Fraser and eluded Officer Townley, and assisting agencies, Sebastian County and State Police.

While waiting for a wrecker to retrieve the vehicle, Officer Townley observed a white Kia Forte drive up on scene. Townley recognized Woolsey and ordered him out of the car and placed him under arrest.

Officer Townley performed a search of the vehicle which yielded open beer cans. Woolsey was transported to the Scott County Adult Detention Center where he was booked in for felony fleeing, fleeing on foot, reckless driving, purchase or possession of alcohol by a minor, and speeding.

Townley also noted in his report that possible charges are pending with the Waldron Police Department for the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Timepiece: Arkansas Boomers

Tammy Teague
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Timepiece: Arkansas Boomers

By Dr. Curtis Varnell

The ground shook and a rumbling came from deep within the ground.  Fearful onlookers began to flee the immediate area.  A black mushroom cloud rose high into the air, falling back onto the earth is dark, oily splotches.  Sheep in a nearby field turned black from the falling petroleum and people from as far as a mile away described the sky dripping oily debris for minutes after the explosion.  Bussey #1 had just come into money and created an “oil rush” in Southern Arkansas.  The Bussey produced millions of cubic feet of unwanted, at that time, gas and up to 10,000 barrels of oil a day.

Prior to the Jan. 10, 1921 gusher, there had been minor discoveries of oil and gas in the region but this was the first of the big-time discoveries.  Within days, thousands of “wildcatters” arrived in El Dorado, transferring the small, sleepy farming village into a town of over 25,000 people.  Hamburger Row, an entire street of eating joints, sprang up overnight.  Hotels overflowed and barbers rented out their chairs at $2 per night as places for people to sleep.  Tent villages surrounded the town, the only accommodation available to the fortune seekers arriving daily.  The Arkansas legislature, stirred by the news and no doubt excited by the possibility of a new source of taxation, made a special train expedition to personally observe the boom town.  

Among those arriving was one H. L. Hunt.  Hunt came into town with no money but a vast skill at the card tables.  Within days, he had either won enough money to invest in the oil fields and, when they came in, he became a millionaire.  He later built on that capital by investing in the East Texas oil fields and became an oil tycoon.  By 1957, his estimated wealth was from $400-$700 million dollars. He probably needed that money to assist in raising his 15 children and to pay alimony to several wives.  His children became famous in several enterprises including his son Lamar who was founder of the American Football League.

Six months after the oil boom hit the El Dorado field, another giant oilfield was discovered 12 miles north near a small community with the unusual name of Smackover (Arkansas butchering of the French term Sumac Couvert which means covered with sumac).  Smackover, a small town of 131 individuals, swelled to a population of over 10,000.  By 1925, it was the largest-producing oil field in the world and would eventually produce more than 583 million barrels of oil. So many oil wells were drilled within the field that the distribution companies could not ship oil to the refineries as fast as it was produced.  Large earthen pools were filled with petroleum, waiting on transportation to the refineries.  Mixed with rainfall, thousands of barrels were diluted and wasted. 

The ten oil-producing counties in Arkansas produced more than 1.8 billion gallons of oil.  Today, the region is depleted of most known oil fields but wildcatters are still seeking reserves as well as natural gas, a product once deemed as virtually useless.  Murphy Oil is still active in Arkansas and supplies most of the petroleum products for Walmart stores. The Fayetteville shale boom, involving lateral drilling and the newest techniques in production, brought in a modest boom but is now dying out.  Lithium, found in the bromine-rich brines of the Smackover formation, are the newest in booms for Arkansas and the region and may lead to a resurgence of days gone by.

Both Smackover and El Dorado have museums dedicated to the history of this time period and provide insight into the period of the Arkansas oil boom.

Celebrate Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council Month in May

Tammy Teague
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Celebrate Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council Month in May

By Rebekah Hall
U of A System Division of Agriculture

As the largest volunteer organization in the state, the Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council and its nearly 3,000 members are dedicated to improving their communities and their quality of life. To recognize the organization’s achievements and contributions to the state, celebrate May as Extension Homemakers Month in Arkansas.

The Arkansas Extension Homemakers program was started in 1912 by the Cooperative Extension Service, the outreach and teaching arm of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, to expand the reach of extension programming. The organization has a three-part mission: lifelong learning, community service and leadership development.

“The purpose of the three-part mission of EHC is to empower people to improve quality of life,” said Laura Hendrix, extension associate professor of personal finance and consumer economics for the Division of Agriculture and advisor to EHC. “While EHC has been around for decades, recent years have seen increased use of new technology and methods to stay connected. Members meet via Zoom and Facebook Live, and webpages and materials are updated for accessibility.”

Hendrix said that in 2023, 5,491 volunteers with EHC contributed more than 200,000 hours of community service, valued at $6.7 million.

“The Cooperative Extension Service and Arkansas Extension Homemakers have partnered on EHC programs for more than 100 years,” Hendrix said. “EHC clubs and councils collaborate with business, community and public service organizations and leaders in their local communities. Arkansas EHC also partners with a variety of organizations at the state level, including the Arkansas Food Bank, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children’s Hospital.”

From 2019-2022, Arkansas EHC focused on food insecurity as its state project. Members raised more than 4.5 million meals through food drives and monetary donations to local food pantries and the state’s six regional food banks.

In 2023, the organization kicked off its next state project, EHC Cares, focusing on mental health awareness. Dot Hart, a member of the New Horizons EHC Club in Jefferson County, said she brought this topic to the state EHC board.

“Mental health awareness is close to my heart,” Hart said. “I pitched that to our board, it’s personal to me. We’ve offered mental health first aid training to our EHC members and community members, and a couple of counties have done crafting for mental health awareness or mental health walks.”

Hart said the project aims to destigmatize mental health and educate members — and by extension, their communities — about available mental health resources.

“It’s just about being that advocate,” Hart said. “I always say, Extension Homemakers are boots on the ground. That’s how I look at us.”

Leading and learning with EHC

As part of the continuing education mission, Hendrix said extension specialists and agents develop non-formal educational programs and train volunteers to teach others the latest research-based information about money management, health, nutrition and personal development.

EHC also offers training and opportunities for members to serve in leadership roles, such as in their club, county and state offices. Deb Teague, a member of The Scrappers EHC Club in Lawrence County, said EHC has helped her become a leader in her day-to-day life.

“The leadership development portion of our organization has benefitted me more than any other part,” Teague said. “It’s helped me with other roles I hold in my life.”

Teague has served as president of her county Extension Homemakers Council, the creative skills chair, and district director of the Delta District for the EHC state office. She currently serves as the organization’s president-elect and will take office as president in July.

“When I talk to people about EHC, the most common thing they say is, ‘I have a job, I’m not a homemaker,’” Teague said. “I always tell people that if you have a place where you live, where you cook and clean, you are a homemaker. Our organization has valuable information that can help you on a wide variety of subjects, to help you do what you’re already doing in a better way.

“Our leadership focus can give you tools to do your job better,” Teague said. “Our community service can help get your name out there, and it can go on your resume and look good to employers. Our organization can assist you with what you’re already doing.”

Hart said EHC has helped her become more vocal as a leader and an individual.

“I have grown so much as a person, as a leader,” Hart said. “I’m originally from Kentucky, and people don’t believe me when I say that I’m shy, I’m quiet. But if there’s a passion, I’m an advocate. If I feel that there’s a need, I want to be that voice. I want to make that difference. And extension has allowed me to do that.”

Hart has served as associate and district director of the Delta District. She has also served as vice president of the National Volunteer Outreach Network, a collection of service organizations from ten states, with which Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council is affiliated. Arkansas EHC is also affiliated of Associated Country Women of the World, a global organization with members from 82 countries.

Power of social connection

EHC also provides an important opportunity for members to socialize with each other, which has emotional and physical benefits.

“Social connection provides value in increased physical health, improved mental health and lower risk of hospitalization, emergency department visits and death,” Hendrix said.

Hendrix said a recent survey of EHC members shows that 83 percent have increased social connections because of the program.

“This is especially important because social connection is a critical component of well-being, healthy aging, longevity and prevention of neurodegeneration,” Hendrix said.

Teague, who owns a 1,000-acre rice and soybean farm with her husband, said EHC has helped her connect with women in her community, which is especially welcome in her male-dominated field of agriculture.

“I am around men all the time, there are very few females in the farming world,” Teague said. “Whether I’m picking up parts or paying bills, it’s all men. So, Extension Homemakers Council gives me an outlet that’s mostly women to socialize with. When you get a bunch of women together, we can commiserate and build each other up.”

Hart said her favorite part of being in EHC has been the fellowship with fellow members.

“I love community,” she said. “I am a community volunteer, and I just like the programs that extension offers. I really like sharing and taking part in that. It’s one big family, and it gives us a chance to have fellowship and enjoy each other.”

To learn more about Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council or join a local club, visit the Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council webpage or contact Laura Hendrix at [email protected].

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.

Mansfield School Board Meeting Minutes

Tammy Teague
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Mansfield School Board Meeting Minutes

A meeting of the Board of Education of Mansfield School District No. 76

At the regular meeting of the Board of Education of the School District aforesaid, at the Administration Building, on April 16, 2024, there being present Rick Nicodemus, Lesli Baggett, Steve Hattabaugh, Owen Edwards and Kylie Efurd; Absent: None.

All members of the board, the following business were transacted to wit:

(Minutes were recorded by Carol Reano)

STAFF PRESENT: Joe Staton, Carol Reano, Julie Ferguson, Joshua Brown, Justin Bond, Mary Jane Brewer, Kim Arnold

The meeting was called to order by Nicodemus, School Board President, at 6:11 p.m.

IN THE MATTER OF: Consent Agenda Items

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Hattabaugh, to approve the consent agenda items as presented.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Academic Report

Academic Report, included with IV, section I.

IN THE MATTER OF: Change May Board Meeting Date

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Baggett, to approve moving the May board meeting to May 14th, 2024 due to graduation.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Audit Approval

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Baggett, to approve the 2022-23 audit.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: ESSA-IDEA Assurances GEPA Statement

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Hattabaugh, to accept Mr. Staton’s recommendation to approve the ESSA-IDEA Assurances GEPA Statement.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approval to Hire Summer Workers

A motion was made by Baggett, seconded by Edwards, to accept Mr. Staton’s recommendation to approve to hire 8 summer workers at minimum wage.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approve Occupational Therapy Contract – Heavenly Therapy Services, LLC

A motion was made by Baggett, seconded by Efurd, to accept Mr. Staton’s recommendation to approve contract services with Heavenly Therapy Services, LLC for occupational therapy services.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approve Physical Therapy Contract – Heavenly Therapy Services, LLC

A motion was made by Edwards, seconded by Nicodemus, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve contract services with Heavenly Therapy Services, LLC for physical therapy services.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approve Speech Therapy Contract – Therapy Connections

A motion was made by Hattabaugh, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve contract services with Therapy Connections for speech therapy services.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approve Medicaid Billing Contract – Bryannia Burke

A motion was made by Edwards, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve speech Medicaid contract billing services with Bryannia Burke.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approval of Curriculum

Presentation on Curriculum and Academic Report

A motion was made by Edwards, seconded by Efurd, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the proposed literacy and math curriculum for 2024-2025 as presented.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

Executive session was requested at 7:08 pm.

The meeting was called back to order at 8:25 pm.

IN THE MATTER OF: Approval of Certified Salary and Stipend Schedule for 2024-2025

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the certified salary and stipend schedule as presented for the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Edwards, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Personnel

Resignations:

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Efurd, to approve Staton’s recommendation to accept the resignation of Addyson Marcotte effective 3/25/2024.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Edwards, to approve Staton’s recommendation to accept the resignation of Rhonda Bullard effective the end of the 2023-2024 contract year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Contract Renewals

A motion was made by Baggett, seconded by Edwards, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the presented list of classified staff for contract renewal for 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the presented list of certified staff for contract renewal for 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Baggett, seconded by Edwards, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the presented list of certified and classified contract changes for the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

IN THE MATTER OF: Personnel

Hires:

A motion was made by Hattabaugh, seconded by Edwards, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Kandis Howard as middle school counselor and e-school coordinator effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Efurd, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Ruth Schlinker as high school counselor effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Edwards, seconded by Nicodemus, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Kim Arnold for federal programs and duties effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Baggett, seconded by Efurd, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Karon Sterling as Special Ed Supervisor effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Hattabaugh, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Trevon Moore as teacher and coach effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Edwards, seconded by Hattabaugh, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Abby Cagle as teacher and coach effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

A motion was made by Nicodemus, seconded by Baggett, to accept Staton’s recommendation to approve the hire of Kimberly Redding as special education teacher effective the 2024-2025 school year.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT:

Staton reported on the following:

Sept 5, 2024, the Coop will host an all day training in Fort Smith.

FFA Banquet is at 6pm, April 20, 2024.

Middle school has atlas testing next week, April 22-26.

High school testing starts in 2 weeks.

Graduation – May 13, 2024

Athletic Banquet – May 6, 2024

Academic Banquet – May 7, 2024

OTHER BOARD COMMUNICATION:

Bridges by the elementary have all been fixed.

Graduation: Recognize the graduating student that attended Mansfield K-12th grade.

Graduation: Recognize all the alumni graduates in attendance.

Bent/broken fence east side of football field near track.

IN THE MATTER OF: Adjournment

A motion was made by Baggett, seconded by Efurd, to adjourn the meeting at 8:45 p.m.

Voting for the motion: Nicodemus, Baggett, Hattabaugh, Owens, Efurd

Voting against the motion:

Motion passed 5-0.

Forestry Division Awarding 87 Wildland Fire Suppression Kits to Rural Fire Departments

Tammy Teague
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Forestry Division Awarding 87 Wildland Fire Suppression Kits to Rural Fire Departments

The Rural Fire Protection Program (RFP), managed by the Arkansas Department of
Agriculture’s Forestry Division is awarding 87 wildland fire suppression kits to rural fire departments across 46 counties in Arkansas. The RFP received $303,904.30 through the Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant from the United States Forest Service to purchase the kits.

Volunteer fire departments are the primary partner to Forestry Division crews in wildfire response and suppression, but they are often in need of specialized equipment and gear necessary for safe wildfire suppression. Since 2014, more than 757 wildland fire suppression kits have been distributed to volunteer fire departments throughout the state. The necessary equipment and gear in the kits include lightweight wildfire-resistant coveralls, gloves, rakes, and leaf blowers.
Fire departments receiving kits in 2024 are listed below:

  • Portland (Ashley)
  • 101 Gamaliel (Baxter)
  • Clarkridge (Baxter)
  • Midway (Baxter)
  • Rocky Branch (Benton)
  • Holiday Island (Carroll)
  • Caddo Valley (Clark)
  • Gurdon (Clark)
  • Rison (Cleveland)
  • Emerson (Columbia)
  • Mt. Vernon (Columbia)
  • Philadelphia (Craighead)
  • Cedarville (Crawford)
  • Crawford Co. District 4 (Crawford)
  • Natural Dam (Crawford)
  • Halley (Desha)
  • Clear Creek (Drew)
  • Holland (Faulkner)
  • Liberty (Faulkner)
  • Altus (Franklin)
  • Pleasant View (Franklin)
  • Watalula (Franklin)
  • Morning Star (Garland)
  • Lafe (Greene)
  • Lono-Rolla (Hot Spring)
  • Perla (Hot Spring)
  • Rockport/Mt. Willow (Hot Spring)
  • Athens (Howard)
  • Mineral Springs (Howard)
  • Desha (Independence)
  • Floral (Independence)
  • Oxford (Izard)
  • Pineville (Izard)
  • Altheimer (Jefferson)
  • Island Harbor (Jefferson)
  • Linwood/Moscow (Jefferson)
  • Southeast Jefferson Co. (Jefferson)
  • Swan Lake (Jefferson)
  • Wabbaseka (Jefferson)
  • Hoxie (Lawrence)
  • Sedgwick (Lawrence)
  • Cornerville/County Village (Lincoln)
  • Star City (Lincoln)
  • Oak Hill (Little River)
  • Booneville City (Logan)
  • Magazine (Logan)
  • Austin (Lonoke)
  • Peel (Marion)
  • Doddridge (Miller)
  • Bright Star (Miller)
  • Etowah (Mississippi)
  • Clarendon (Monroe)
  • Maddox Bay (Monroe)
  • Two Bayou (Ouachita)
  • Harris Brake (Perry)
  • Perry (Perry)
  • Antoine City (Pike)
  • Nathan (Pike)
  • Dallas Valley (Polk)
  • Appleton (Pope)
  • Bayliss (Pope)
  • Dover City (Pope)
  • Dover Rural (Pope)
  • Martin Township (Pope)
  • Arch Street (Pulaski)
  • Crystal (Pulaski)
  • Runyan Acres (Pulaski)
  • Scott (Pulaski)
  • Sweet Home (Pulaski)
  • Turtle Creek (Saline)
  • Boles (Scott)
  • Highway 250 (Scott)
  • Leslie (Searcy)
  • Witts Springs (Searcy)
  • Hartford (Sebastian)
  • White Bluff Rye Hill (Sebastian)
  • Cave City (Sharp)
  • Caldwell (St. Francis)
  • 6th District (Stone)
  • Mountain View (Stone)
  • Hutting (Union)
  • Junction City (Union)
  • Pangburn (White)
  • Augusta (Woodruff)
  • McCrory (Woodruff)
  • Plainview (Yell)
  • Rover (Yell)

Volunteer fire departments interested in participating in the program must submit an application to the RFP. The applications are scored according to specific criteria including fire district population, the size of the response area, wildfire equipment response needs, and other factors. The next application period is expected to begin in August 2024.

Fire departments should receive an application by mail, or they can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/rural-fire-protection-program/ when the application period opens. For more information, fire departments should contact Kathryn Mahan-Hooten at [email protected] or (501) 679-3183.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of
policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources conservation to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while sustaining natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Obituary: Keith VanRavensway (1971-2024)

Tammy Teague
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Obituary: Keith VanRavensway (1971-2024)

Keith Alan VanRavensway, 52, of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life on Sunday, April 28, 2024 in Boles, Arkansas. Keith was born August 28, 1971 to Ernest Jay van Ravensway and Jeanie Dianne (Parks) Hunnicutt in Frankfurt, Germany.

Keith was a proud Navy Veteran who served during Desert Storm. He was a decorated veteran receiving many medals and ribbons including: Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal with a Bronze Star and many more. Keith found his calling in law enforcement and served at the Waldron Police Department, Fort Smith Police Department and the Scott County Sheriff Department. Keith enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. The memories made with each of them will forever be treasured.

Keith leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Jonai Bates of the home. Three sons: Myk and Brooklyn VanRavensway, Grant and Madison VanRavensway and Weston VanRavensway all of Waldron, Arkansas. Grand Papa will be missed by his six grandchildren: Skylyn, Kavan, London, Jensen, Cody and Ellia. Keith is also survived by his parents; Dianne Hunnicutt of Harvey, Arkansas and Ernie and Anita of Russellville, Arkansas. Two brothers; David Wayne VanRavensway of Panama City Beach, Florida and Steven Lee VanRavensway of Danville, Arkansas; one step-sister; Melody Slitter-Yopp of Russellville, Arkansas; three step-brothers: Bret Ward of Batesville, Arkansas; Preston Hunnicutt of Ola, Arkansas and Nick Hunnicutt of Alaska and a host of nieces and nephews. Keith will be deeply missed by those who loved him, and most certainly by those that had the honor and privilege of knowing him and calling him friend.

Keith’s life celebration will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, May 6, 2024 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Rev. Pat Ray Biggs officiating. Arrangements and cremation are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Arrest Reports 4/21

Tammy Teague
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Arrest Reports 4/21

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office:
Billie Jean Bodine of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 23 at 12:01 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond April 23 at 7:55 p.m. Bodine was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine.

Corey Dean Brown of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 10:45 a.m. and released on cash bond April 24 at 1:22 p.m. Brown was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor, and two counts of failure to appear – class C felony.

Melissa Rae Cundiff of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 3:17 p.m. and released on cash bond April 25 at 2:40 a.m. Cundiff was charged with

Melissa Rae Cundiff of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 3:17 p.m. and released on cash bond April 25 at 2:40 a.m. Cundiff was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Jennifer Regina Ervin of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 25 at 4:22 p.m. and released on cash bond April 25 at 5:23 p.m. Ervin was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Furbeck, Jason Everett of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 11:14 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond April 26 at 8:40 p.m. Furbeck was charged with Aggravated Assault – Firearm, Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms-Firearm, Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule I/II Felony <2g, and Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony.

Miranda Leah Gibson of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 25 at 12:45 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Gibson was charged with petition to revoke – misd.

Amanda Lynn Taylor of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 26 at 12:12 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Taylor was charged with ADC Commitment Hold.

Arresting agency – Hackett Police Department:
Tammy Lee Branham of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 6:54 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Branham was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor.

Michael Lee Freeman of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 6:46 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Freeman was charged with ADC Commitment Hold, absconding, parole violation, Failure to Appear – Class C Felony, petition to revoke – felony Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, Obstructing Governmental Operations-ID, Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms-Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor.

Kimberly Ann Glass of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 6:52 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Glass was charged with Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms-Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor.

Ashley Marie Kimberling of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 6:58 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Kimberling was charged with Manufacture of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] >4oz (marijuana), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor.

James Raymond Lishbrook of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 6:52 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Lishbrook was charged with Manufacture of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] >4oz (marijuana), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Kyle Ray Brown of Stigler, OK was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 27 at 2:55 p.m. and released on April 28 at 2:03 p.m. Brown was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor, Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Contempt of Court–(child support), FTAS, FTRespond Subpoena, FTComply WCO.

Tyler Lane Chappell of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 21 at 2:13 a.m. and released on signature bond April 21 at 8:21 a.m. Chappell was charged with Reckless Driving 1st Offense and Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Joseph Daniel Cowan of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 25 at 11:18 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Cowan was charged with Petition to Show Cause, two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), Domestic Battering Purposely, and parole violation.

Kaden Matthew Jarosinski of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 22 at 10:10 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond April 23 at 3:48 a.m. Jarosinski was charged with Burglary – Residential Felony, Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule VI Misdemeanor <4oz, and Theft of Property <$1k.

Hollee Joanne Putman of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 23 at 11:16 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Putman was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule I/II Felony <2g, Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, Driving While Intoxicated 3rd offense, Endangering the Welfare of a Minor in the Second Degree, Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule VI Misdemeanor <4oz, and Possession of Misbranded Drugs.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Heath Jefferson Chapman of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 5:14 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond April 24 at 9:07 p.m. Chapman was charged with Violation Of A Protection Order Misdemeanor.

James Taylor Stuckey of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 21 at 9:35 p.m. and transferred to an outside agency on April 26 at 11:44 a.m. Stuckey was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony.

Arresting agency – Arkansas Game and Fish:
Brandon Alan Crabtree of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 11:40 p.m. and released on signature bond April 25 at 12:43 a.m. Crabtree was charged with Criminal Trespass – Premises.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Colton Duane Goff of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 24 at 12:16 p.m. and released on signature bond April 24 at 6:37 p.m. Goff was charged with Theft of Property <$1k.

April D. Hagar of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on April 26 at 3:58 p.m. and transferred to an outside agency on April 27 at 6:56 p.m. Hagar was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Misd., and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
William Gaines, 38 of Yucca Valley, CA, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 21 at 10:42 p.m. Gaines was charged as a parole hold.

Tabetha Emberson, 45 of Mansfield, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 23 at 11:41 a.m. Emberson was charged with failure to appear.

Douglas Nelson, 37 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 24 at 10:31 a.m. Nelson was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while driver’s license cancelled, suspended or revoked, and arson.

Jessie Dow, 33 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 24 at 12:50 p.m. Dow was charged with two counts of failure to appear.

Sierra Lewis, 25 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 24 at 4:06 p.m. Lewis was charged with contempt of court.

Alisa Scates, 39 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 25 at 2:58 p.m. Scates was charged with violation of a no contact order.

Travis Smith, 33 of Waldron, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 25 at 7:03 p.m. Smith was charged with parole hold.

Loretta Dean, 55 of Subiaco, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 25 at 10:01 p.m. Dean was charged with assault on a family or household member in the third degree, and terroristic threatening in the second degree.

David Lewis, 61 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 26 at 8:55 p.m. Lewis was charged with driving while driver’s license cancelled, suspended or revoked, windshield, etc., to be unobstructed, and possession of a controlled substance.

Billy Harris, 47 of London, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 27 at 5:23 p.m. Harris was charged with theft by receiving.

Susan Bradford, 43 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on April 27 at 10:08 p.m. Bradford was charged with theft by receiving, no insurance, defective headlights, driving while driver’s license cancelled, suspended or revoked, and contempt of court.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Chase Phillip Linstrom, 29 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on April 27 at 8:13 p.m. Linstrom was charged with public intoxication, possession of SCH 1 or 2 GT 2 GM LT 28 GM with purpose to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of SCH III LT 2 GM, failure to comply with conditions of suspended sentence or probation, burglary, commercial theft $1,000 or less – all others.

Thaddeus Cain Wilkins, 32 of Booneville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on April 26 at 9:09 p.m. Wilkins was charged with contempt – failure to comply, and failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Charlie Harper, 41 of Stillwell, OK, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on April 24 at 1:25 p.m. Harper was charged with domestic battering – 2nd degree / physical injury, endanger welfare of minor – 3rd degree – recklessly risks physical/mental harm.

Cleaveland Williams, 57 of Maumelle, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on April 23v at 6:53 p.m. Williams was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Mitchel Earl Gifford, 25 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on April 22 at 8:44 p.m. Gifford was charged with burglary, commercial theft $1,000 or less 0 all others, and refusal to submit to arrest.

Nathan Scott Henard, 28 of Booneville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on April 22 at 4:26 p.m. Henard 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.**

Be Part of a Winning Team of Lifesavers with Our Blood Institute!

Tammy Teague
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Be Part of a Winning Team of Lifesavers with Our Blood Institute!

Join Our Blood Institute’s Team Donor by giving blood and saving lives this May!

Our Blood Institute (OBI) will hold a blood drive with Walmart Greenwood  on Saturday, May 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the bloodmobile.   

Successful donors will receive a free “Team Donor” T-shirt and one free entry to Magic Springs Theme Park and Water Park.

“We take our role as the community blood provider very seriously,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “Our blood supply is an essential part of our health care system, so we’re extremely thankful for partners like the Magic Springs for helping ensure we have a healthy blood supply for patients in need.” 

When you visit Magic Springs Theme Park and Water Park, you get two parks for the price of one! Immerse yourself in over 80 attractions including Arkansas Twister roller coaster and thrill rides such as Plummet Summit and The Gauntlet. When you’re ready to cool off, head over to Crystal Falls to take a dip in the pool and action-packed water slides. There’s something for everyone at Magic Springs.

Every two seconds, someone needs blood, and the supply must be constantly renewed. It takes approximately 1,200 donors a day to meet those needs.

Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome. 

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required. 

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