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Walker Receives Master Municipal Clerk Designation

News

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4:09 pm

Walker Receives Master Municipal Clerk Designation

Rebecca Walker, MMC, City Recorder/Treasurer for the City of Mansfield, AR, received her Master Municipal Clerk designation on July 25, 2024, from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my pleasure to inform you that you have been awarded the International Institute of Municipal Clerks’ designation of Master Municipal Clerk…IIMC grants the MMC designation only to those Municipal Clerks who complete demanding education requirements; and who have a record of significant contributions to their local government, their community and state. In light of the speed and drastic nature of change these days, lifelong learning is not only desirable, it is necessary for all in local government to keep pace with growing demands and changing needs of the citizens we serve. We applaud your educational accomplishments and achievement of this milestone and congratulate you on your personal pursuit of professional excellence.”

Walker becomes one of 1,600 MMCs in IIMC’s 15,000 membership population base. Walker has been an IIMC member since 2013. She obtained her Certified Municipal Clerk designation in August 2016 and continued her professional development journey toward her MMC.

IIMC features two distinguished certification programs – the Certified Municipal Clerk and the Master Municipal Clerk – with the CMC designation becoming a prerequisite for employment as a Municipal Clerk in many Municipalities.

Clerks aiming to become CMCs must achieve points in Education and Experience categories, acquiring education from university-based Institutes, State Association Conferences, IIMC Annual Conferences and other forms of leaning to acquire their points. The MMC program is IIMC’s advanced continuing education program leading to the MMC designation and is IIMC’s highest level of educational achievement. The MMC curriculum employs similar learning platforms along with a more rigorous education program.

Founded in 1947, IIMC is a professional nonprofit association with more than 15,000 members throughout North America and 12 other countries, representing municipalities with populations of 1,000 to more than 10 million. Governed by a 28-member Board of Directors, IIMC prepares its membership to meet the challenges of the diverse role of the Municipal Clerk by providing services and continuing professional development opportunities in 46 permanent college-and university-based learning centers. IIMC offers Municipal Clerks a Certified Municipal Clerk Program (CMC), a Master Municipal Clerk Academy (MMCA) Program and other opportunities to benefit members and the government entities they serve.

Timepiece: Arkansas Earthquakes

Featured

Tammy Teague

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4:57 pm

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Two huge events have done more than anything else to shape the history of Arkansas; The Civil War and the occurrence of the New Madrid Earthquake of 1811-12. Much more is known of the Civil War and the bitterness, destruction, and death it engendered than is known of the enduring desolation and hardships created by the earthquake. Arkansas, just recently brought into the Union as a result of the Louisiana purchase, was sparsely populated so there was little loss of property and life, but the long-lasting effects of the quake was to change the entire history of the state.

The first tremors hit in late 1811 and was followed by several other quakes within the next few months. Although the 1906 San Francisco earthquake is the one most discussed in America, the New Madrid was larger and more extensive in nature. The quake caused the ground to rise and fall, opening deep cracks into the earth and setting off huge landslides. Water, sand, and gravel erupted from fissures deep within the earth, shooting into the air like geysers. From Cairo, Illinois, to Memphis, Crowley’s Ridge, and into Tennessee the land buckled and shifted, forming lakes and swamps in one area while pushing land into uplifted areas nearby. Large waves were generated on the Mississippi River, creating a waterfall flowing northward. Keelboats and small schooners were washed miles upriver, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.

Eyewitness accounts described the terror and carnage created by the quake. “Our family all were sleeping in a log cabin, my father leaped out of bed crying aloud, the Indians are on the house, only to discover it was far worse than the Indians. The cattle came running home bellowing with fear. Our house cracked and quivered so we thought it would fall to the ground,” stated John Reynolds, who later became the 4^th governor of Illinois. John Bradbury, a worker on a boat stated, “Perpendicular banks above and below us, began to fall into the river in vast masses. I could hear the crash of falling trees and the screaming of water fowl. The noise was inconceivably loud and terrific.” Agitated by the estimated 7.5 magnitude quake, church bells as far away as North Carolina and Washington D.C. clanged.

The region most seriously affected were the sunken lands, fissures, and sinks of the delta regions. Eastern Arkansas was devastated. Lake St. Francis in eastern Arkansas, some 30 miles long and over a mile wide in places, was created when the St. Francis River shifted due to the earthquake. Sinks, swamps, bayou’s, and downed timber made much of the delta virtually unpassable to overland travel. Damage to the region was so severe that William Clark, famous for his travels with Meriwether Lewis and in 1812, governor of the Louisiana Territory, became the first to request federal relief to assist the people of the region.

As late as 1836, a group of Indian on the Trail of Tear arrived in Memphis with all of their belongings. Women were shipped across the delta up the Arkansas River by boat while their men-folk and animals travelled by land. The women arrived in Little Rock and waited. Two-weeks later, a rescue group back-tracked down the river and found the men near the present day town of Lonoke. The animals and men suffered from malaria, foot rot, and other illness brought on by the trek over the sunken lands.

Travel through much of the region was difficult at best, impossible for much of the year. While rail systems were developing elsewhere, Arkansas lagged behind with less than 30 miles of track laid as the war began in 1861.

In 1849 the great California gold rush began. The most logical way west would have been from Memphis, across Arkansas, and then west following what is now interstate 40. In that scenario, the jump-off place to the west would have been Fort Smith and perhaps the Gateway Arch would have been located on the banks of the Arkansas River.

The people of the delta and Eastern Arkansas live with the possibility of future earthquakes. They mid-point of the cycle for the New Madrid quake is about 200 years. Let’s see, 1812, 1912, 2012—- we live with the very real possibility of future earthquakes in Arkansas.

Fall armyworm still menacing pastures

Outdoors

Tammy Teague

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4:56 pm

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By Mary Hightower
U of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

The early summer buildup of fall armyworms in Arkansas may have spurred memories of 2021’s “wormaggedon,” but their numbers in field crops seems to have plateaued, said Nick Bateman, extension entomologist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Armyworms are so named because the caterpillars appear in enormous numbers with an appetite to match. They can make grass — whether lawns, meadows or rice — disappear within a day or two.

The buildup prompted state agriculture officials to seek an emergency exemption to use the insecticide Intrepid 2F in rice to knock down populations, which was granted July 11.

Adding to the urgency was a weakened response to Lambda-cyhalothrin, a standby for farmers seeking to manage armyworms.

“Since 2021, we’ve been seeing poor control with Lambda,” Bateman said. “And that was our No. 1 control in rice.”

In 2021, farmers were finding 100 armyworms per 10 sweeps with a net in Arkansas fields. This year, farmers in southwest Arkansas started reporting armyworms in pastures as early as mid-May and by June 1, they were being found in St. Francis County rice fields.

The good news, at least for rice growers, is that the numbers of armyworms in rice seem to be static. On Monday, Bateman said “we’re getting 20-30 in 10 sweeps.”

“Rice can compensate for those numbers,” he said. “They can outgrow the damage caused by armyworms.”

Late planted rice is at the most risk right now, Bateman said, and that’s where the Section 18 for Intrepid will be of most use.

Other rice will be ready for harvest in a week or two and “we’re not worried about that rice.”

As the pressure decreases, so has Bateman’s phone time.

“My phone calls have been way down. I was getting 15-20 armyworm calls a day for 10-14 days,” he said. “Now it’s four to five calls.”

Pressure in pastures

However, farmers with pastures and hay meadows shouldn’t let their guard down just yet.

Kevin Lawson, Faulkner County extension agent for the Division of Agriculture, advised hay and forage growers on Monday to “scout if you have hay that has bermuda or crabgrass in it. Armyworms are bad again in the county.”

Kelly Loftin, extension entomologist for the Division of Agriculture based in Fayetteville, said that fall armyworm populations were “well above threshold in multiple areas of the state.

“We are seeing caterpillars of uniform size and mixed sizes that indicate overlapping generations,” he said. “Population levels of over 20 fall armyworms per square foot are not uncommon.”

Loftin said caterpillar populations have reached treatment levels around Van Buren in the western edge of Arkansas.

“From Van Buren east to Conway, south to Danville and north to Batesville, many fields with high fall armyworm numbers are being treated and have been for a while,” Loftin said.

“Some producers have having very good results with the lambda-cyhalothrin/dimilin tanks mix and others are not — leaving some bigger worms in the field,” he said. “Vantacor and Prevathon are performing very well.”

Jonathan Kubesch, extension forage specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said “I’ve seen some hard-hit fields at Hope and in Grant County. There are some other areas where I haven’t seen any at all. It seems like the best-managed forages are getting hit first, but we’ve even had some fall armyworms eating bahiagrass demonstrations in the Ouachita district” which is composed of 25 counties in the southwestern corner of the state.

“If the fall armyworms weren’t enough, Loftin said “we are also seeing readily apparent Bermudagrass stem maggot damage in bermudagrass and sugarcane aphids above treatment levels sorghum-sudangrass.”

Treatment options for fall armyworm in pastures and hayfields can be found in this factsheet, “Managing Armyworms in Pastures and Hayfields.”

Mention of product names does not imply endorsement by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

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 Instagra.m.at @AR_Extension. To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on X at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on X at @AgInArk.

About the Division of Agriculture

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s mission is to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best practices.

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

The Division of Agriculture is one of 20 entities within the University of Arkansas System. It has offices in all 75 counties in Arkansas and faculty on five system campuses.

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

Timepiece: Arkansas Watermelons

Featured

Tammy Teague

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1:54 pm

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By. Dr. Curtis Varnell

Watermelons and summertime are synonymous memories of most of us in Arkansas. By late July, farmers began checking under the dark green vines, watching as the big melons rapidly expand and ripen. Kids began thumping the melons, hoping for the deep bass sound they felt indicated that the melon was sweet and ready to sample. More adept growers rotated the melons, checking the expansion of the yellow underside to more accurately determine the quality of the melon. Whatever the method, when the big day arrived when the melons were dark red, sweet, and juicy were times to be remembered.

Arkansas has always had a fondness for the melons; possibly because some of the largest and sweetest watermelons found are produced in the state. Hope, Arkansas proclaims to be the home of Bill Clinton, Mike Huckabee, and the worlds’ largest watermelons. I am not sure which they are most proud of but they hold a watermelon festival in August of each year. The biggest melon recorded there weighted in at a whopping 268.5 pounds.

Not to be outdone, Cave City, Arkansas lays claim to the sweetest watermelons in the world. A three-day festival in late July attracts hundreds of visitors celebrating the famously sweet watermelons produced locally.

Growing up, most farmers planted, with varying degrees of success, cantaloupes and watermelons as a part of their garden. Some locations; those with sandy loam soils, plentiful water, and good drainage, just produced better melons and those sites were known to all the teenage watermelon lovers in the community. Many a farmer discovered that his crop often diminished drastically overnight as visitors “sampled” a few of his products. My uncle Larry loved watermelon and was very proficient at purloining a few of Byron Trusty’s best melons. Observing a dramatic drop in melon production, Mr. Trusty determined the put a stop to some young men’s bad habits. Sitting his shotgun near the back door, he waited patiently until Larry and a couple other young thieves had their hands full of melons. In fact, Larry wasn’t content with just the melon he could carry, he inserted a small one into the front of his shirt. Stepping out the back door, Mr. Trusty let out a yell and began firing into the air. Three young men left the melons they carried and galloped across the garden and rolled under the fence. Forgetting the melon in his shirt, Larry rolled under the bottom strand only to discover a squishy softness and a red liquid dripping from his waist down. “I’m shot guys, he done shot me,” he screamed to his companions who burst into laughter as they realized his wound was the product of the five-pound melon tucked into his shirt.

There are a vast variety of melons, ranging from the small crimson sweet melons to the larger striped and Charleston Grey melons. Many in Arkansas prefer the dark skinned and red meat Black Diamond. A personal favorite is the yellow-meat watermelon gown on Sand-Ridge near Subiaco, Arkansas by Irban White. Mr. White grew hundreds of melons yearly, placing them for sale in front of his house. He left a price for each melon, a collection box for the customer to leave money in, and stated he never had a customer to cheat him or to take the money. Each year, everyone gathered at his house or at the local church for a watermelon party. The Arkansas Razorbacks did much the same in Fayetteville with a group bringing up a big load of melons from Hope and celebrating with the team during the hot, exhausting two-a-day practice sessions.

Arkansas has more than 200 commercial farms harvesting more than 1,500 acres of watermelons. The crops add more than 5 million dollars per year to the state economy. Many small farmers harvest roadside crops sold locally. One of the best known farmers in the River Valley is former Ozark school teacher Clinton King who sales hundreds of the best watermelons produced in the state. With his big straw hat and a pickup load of melons, he visits the county court houses throughout the valley and sales melons to those traveling through town. Now, his patch is somewhere just off the road near the river, not too distant from my home. A good moonless night, my four-wheeler. Hummmmm!

Obituary: Alice Singleton (1944 – 2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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1:49 pm

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Alice Faye Singleton, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, peacefully passed away on July 29, 2024, at the age of 80 surrounded by her loving family. Alice was born July 9, 1944 to James and Hazel Mason in Lindsay, California.

Alice was a compassionate soul who dedicated her life to taking care of others. Alice was an incredible woman of faith. She was one of Jehovah witnesses and her spiritual beliefs guided her compassionate nature and caring demeanor. She had a deep-rooted love for her family, especially her grandchildren. Known for her warmth and generosity, Alice left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She was described as kind-hearted, selfless, and always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Alice is survived by her husband, Vernal Singleton and four children: Leonard Singleton and wife Sherry of Y-City, Arkansas; Donna McCullum and husband Dennis of Y-City, Arkansas; Steven Singleton of the home; and Vernal Carl Singleton and wife Teresa of Y-City, Arkansas. Alice is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents James and Hazel Mason, a granddaughter, Jenna Singleton; her sister and brother-in-law Betty and Lee Singleton and her brother James Mason.

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

Arrest Reports 7/21

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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3:04 pm

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Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Hannah Nicole Bateman of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 21 at 11:26 p.m. and released on cash bond July 22 at 8:34 p.m. Bateman was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor and Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.

Thomas Wesley Higgins of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 27 at 1:02 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Higgins was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony, two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and petition to revoke – misd.

David Alexander Melgar of Van Buren was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 3:43 a.m. and transferred to an outside agency on July 26 at 8:36 a.m. Melgar was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Shawna Renee Uptigrove of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 21 at 11:24 p.m. and released on time served July 22 at 5:12 p.m. Uptigrove was charged with two counts of Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Department:
Derrell Wayne Britcher of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 24 at 10:15 a.m. and released on signature bond July 24 at 11:50 a.m. Britcher was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Samantha Ann Dotson of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 27 at 1:55 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Dotson was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Oliver Phillip Frith, Junior of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 23 at 1:01 a.m. and released on CAP signature bond July 24 at 9:21 p.m. Frith was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.

Terri Gabbert of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 9:37 p.m. and released on signature bond July 27 at 9:08 a.m. Gabbert was charged with Disorderly Conduct – Obscene Language or Gesture.

Antonette Elizabeth Mailloux of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 24 at 8:52 p.m. and released on signature bond July 24 at 11:36 p.m. Mailloux was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Jennifer Elaine McAnelly of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 22 at 8:25 p.m. and released on cash bond July 22 at 11:49 p.m. McAnelly was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Ryan Austin Millican of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 3:25 p.m. and released on bond July 26 at 5:13 p.m. Millican was charged with Battery in the Third Degree – Purpose, and Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Dylan Wayne Strozier of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 25 at 9:45 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Strozier was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Johnnie Lee Witt of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 9:12 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Witt was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Arkansas State Police Troop H:
Travis Scott Campbell of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 21 at 12:29 a.m. and released on signature bond July 21 at 1:45 a.m. Campbell was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Staci Leann Neu of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 9:12 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Neu was charged with parole violation and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Villeda-Martinez, Jacinto of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 21 at 4:57 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 22 at 5:50 p.m. Villeda-Martinez was charged with Obstructing Governmental Operations-Impair, Possession of Firearms By Certain Persons – Non Violent, and Drinking in Public – Highway or Street.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Tabatha Marie Cole of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 27 at 8:48 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with signature bond. Cole was charged with Disorderly Conduct – Fighting.

Trista Bree Griffith of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 9:39 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 27 at 12:23 a.m. Griffith was charged with Theft of Property – >$1k.

Arresting agency – Hackett Police Department:
Stephen Arthur Hanna of Midland was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 26 at 4:09 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Hanna was charged with Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree.

Kaitlyn Mae Reeves of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 24 at 11:04 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 27 at 10:58 p.m. Reeves was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule VI Misdemeanor <4oz, and Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Jagger Ray James of Central City was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 23 at 2:36 a.m. and released on signature bond July 23 at 9:22 a.m. James was charged with Public Intoxication – Annoyance.

Nicholas Jasna of Sallisaw, OK was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 21 at 5:29 p.m. and released on signature bond July 21 at 6:44 p.m. Jasna was charged with Theft of Property <$1k.

Jong Yang of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 27 at 1:58 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with cash bond. Yang was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Arkansas Parole:
Brock Leonard Kelly of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 23 at 8:27 p.m. and transferred to an outside agency on July 24 at 12:43 p.m. Kelly was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Department:
Ricky Safford, 60 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 21 at 12:11 a.m. Safford was charged with shoplifting and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Russell Allen, 42 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 21 at 4:48 p.m. Allen was charged with failure to appear and two counts of bond surrender.

Johnny Yancy, 37 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 21 at 7:51 p.m. Yancy was charged with theft of services.

Benjamin Stewart, 31 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 23 at 5:17 p.m. Stewart was charged with fleeing, speeding, careless and prohibited driving, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental operations, possession of an open container containing alcohol in a moto vehicle, and driving while driver’s license cancelled, suspended or revoked.

Raymond House, 42 of Scranton, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 26 at 1:01 a.m. House was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, and contempt of court.

Chrisopher Fleming, 50 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 26 at 6:08 p.m. Fleming was charged with failure to appear.

Skyler Peugh, 26 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 26 at 7:33 p.m. Peugh was charged with two counts of contempt of court, driving while driver’s license cancelled, suspended or revoked, fictitious license plate – improper use of evidence of registration, failure to register motor vehicle and failure to appear.

William Frost, 18 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 27 at 12:54 a.m. Frost was charged with murder in the first degree.

Paige Barr, 25 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 27 at 3:11 p.m. Barr was charged with disorderly conduct.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Department:
Robert Charles Smith, 42 of Booneville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 22 at 11:27 a.m. Smith was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA) and sentenced to days.

Howard Jay Willis, 23, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 22 at 5:31 p.m. Willis was sentenced to days.

Ashley Dawn Moore, 35 of Ratcliff, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 22 at 6:11 p.m. Moore was charged with three counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA), and failure to comply with conditions of suspended sentence or probation.

Agustin Palacios, 26 of Clarksville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 23 at 2:35 a.m. Palacios was charged with obstructing governmental operations, public intoxication / drinking in public.

Marty Lee Keck, 66 of Altus, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 24 at 10:58 a.m. Keck was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA) and sentenced to CCC.

Ronald Hawkins, 43 of Gould, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 24 at 12:01 p.m. Hawkins was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Steven Chance Young, 27 of Coal Hill, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 24 at 12:44 p.m. Young was charged with burglary, residential, and violation of a protection order – misd.

Rodney Glenn Crutchfield, 36 of Coal Hill, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 25 at 4:40 p.m. Crutchfield was charged with reckless driving, fleeing by vehicle – extreme indifference to human life, possession of meth or cocaine GT 2 GM, but LT 10 GM, no vehicle license, and possession of SCH drug.

James Joel Atkinson, 66 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 25 at 5:10 p.m. Atkinson was charged with public intoxication and sentenced to CCC.

Khua Hup, 54 of North Little Rock, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 25 at 10:41 p.m. Hup was charged with driving while intoxicated – DWI 2nd, open container containing alcohol in motor vehicle, and drinking on highway or public.

Jason Goslee, 42 of Royal, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 26 at 12:37 p.m. Goslee was charged with driving while intoxicated – DWI 3rd, following to close, endangering the welfare of a minor – 3rd degree – recklessly risks physical/ mental harm.

David Lee Hughes, 38 of Seligman, MO was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 27 at 12:05 a.m. Hughes was charged with driving while intoxicated – DWI 1st, careless and prohibited driving, no proof of liability insurance, and driving while license suspended.

Baldemas Betancourt, 49 of Springdale, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 27 at 5:45 a.m. Betancourt was charged with theft by receiving greater than $25k.

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

Single Vehicle Crash Claims the Life of a Hackett Man

News

Tammy Teague

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12:56 pm

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Single Vehicle Crash Claims the Life of a Hackett Man

A single vehicle crash claimed the life of a Hackett man on Saturday, July 27. The fatality occurred at 4:45 p.m., 23204 State Highway 45 in rural Sebastian County.

Dakota Gardner, 34 of Hackett, was traveling southbound in a 2001 Dodge. He entered a curve, veered off to the right of the roadway and collided with a tree before overturning and striking a second tree. The vehicle would come to rest on the driver’s side facing west.

The body was transported to the Sebastian County Coroner’s office and the next of kin notified.

Obituary: Raylyn Mays (2007 – 2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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9:58 am

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Raylyn Dawn Mays, born on August 22, 2007 to Douglas and Leanne (Forrester) Mays in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She tragically left this world on July 26, 2024, in Waldron, Arkansas, at the age of 16.

Raylyn was a vibrant soul who brought joy to all those around her. She took pride in being a member of the Waldron High School choir and was a dedicated daily runner, showcasing her talents and determination. Raylyn also had a deep love for children, showing her caring and compassionate nature. She was an avid reader and had a passion for music and was hardly seen without her headphones on. Her adventurous spirit led her to pursue various interests, including riding horses and actively participating in the Waldron Rodeo Club Playdays. Raylyn was known for her witty humor and ever-present smile, brightening the lives of everyone she encountered.

Raylyn leaves behind to cherish her memory, her parents: Douglas and Leanne Mays; and two brothers: Dustin and Bladyn Mays. Paternal Grandmother, Linda Weatherly of Boles, Arkansas; Maternal Grandfather, Michael Forrester of Parks, Arkansas; Maternal Grandmother, Terrie White and husband Bobby of Waldron, Arkansas; and Maternal Great Grandmother, Patricia Forrester of Waldron, Arkansas. Raylyn is also survived by a host of extended family: aunts, uncles and numerous cousins. Raylyn will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, forever remembered for her zest for life and the love she shared with those around her.

Raylyn was preceded in death by her Paternal Grandfathers, Bobby Mays and Paw Paw Richard Weatherly.

Raylyn’s life celebration will take place at the Waldron High School Auditorium on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. Pat Ray Biggs officiating. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Raylyn’s pallbearers will be: Dustin Mays, Bladyn Mays, Markus Smith, Kian McGhee, Stephen Smith and Tyler Mays. Honorary pallbearers will be Dylan Ditgen, Korben Phillips, Stele James, Little Stihl James and Michael Henry.

Raylyn’s visitation will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home.

Obituary: Terry Conduff (1955 – 2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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5:23 pm

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Terry Lynn (Lee) Conduff, 68, of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with her Lord and Savior, Friday, July 26, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Terry was born on September 12, 1955 to Jimmie Howard and Marjorie Elaine (Carl) Lee in Roseville, California. She was currently a member Union Hill Free Will Baptist Church in Union Hill, Arkansas after having been a member of Christian Life Cathedral in Fayetteville, Arkansas for over 30 years.

Terry was married to the love of her life, Ernie Conduff for 49 marvelous years. Together they raised two amazing children and played a huge role in the lives of their grandchildren. Known for her baking skills, Terry was a beloved figure at the school choirs’ afternoon practices, where the students affectionately referred to her as “Mommom.” Her culinary talents brought joy to many. An avid traveler, Terry’s love for exploring different cultures merged seamlessly with her passion for helping children, leading her on numerous missionary trips to Honduras, Argentina, Mexico, and Guatemala. Her playful spirit shone through as she delighted in dressing up as a clown and entertaining children wherever she went, along with her love of wearing dress hats for nearly all occasions.

A true Proverbs 31 woman, Terry dedicated her life to serving others. She remained a prayer warrior, even in her final days as she bravely battled cancer. With a servant’s heart, she touched countless lives through her ministry work alongside her spouse, Ernie, serving in vocational ministry for 49 years.

Having a gift of hospitality, Terry welcomed over 300 mothers and children into her home over the years, providing shelter, mentorship, food, and love. Terry’s memory will live on through the lives she touched and the compassionate work she dedicated herself to; including founding the nonprofit organization LifeSource International with Ernie where they served as executive directors. She leaves behind a profound impact and a legacy of love, generosity, and service that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Terry leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband Ernie and two children: JoAnna and husband Zachary Hale of Waldron, Arkansas and Jimmie and wife Lupe Conduff of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Mommom will forever remain in the hearts of her nine grandchildren: Lincoln and Keylor Hale; Jimmie, Paxton and Chloe Conduff; Jessica Gomez; Breanna, Alex and Brandon Lopez. Terry is also survived by her mom, Barbara Lee of California; six sisters: Janet Van-Y, Patti Ferguson, Laurie Dibble and Trisha Gregory of California; Valerie McDonald of Arizona and Debbie Engle of Florida; and two brothers: Thomas Spindel of California and Mike Spindel of Alabama.

Terry was preceded in death by her parents: Jimmie Lee and Marjorie Spindel, and granddaughter Elvia Conduff.

In honor of her legacy, a celebration of life will be held to honor Terry’s remarkable life at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Waldron Pentecostal Church of God with Pastor Zack Hale officiating. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Terry’s visitation will be Friday, August 2, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 pm. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home where Terry’s family will receive friends.

Memorial Donations may be made to Life Source International Inc., 682 S Lt Col Leroy Pond Ave, Fayetteville AR 72701-5379 or at https://www.lifesourceinternational.org/donate

Golfers Set World Record, Raise Money and Awareness for Rare Genetic Disorder

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Tammy Teague

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5:15 pm

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Golfers Set World Record, Raise Money and Awareness for Rare Genetic Disorder

This spring, five local golfers set out to play an unprecedented round of golf. The goal? to raise money and awareness for a rare genetic disorder, Phelan-McDermid Syndrome.

Golfers Zach Brunet, Philip Robertson, Lex Mickle, Alex Graziani, and Derek Frail participated in the 2024 fundraiser, Endure4Eden (E4E). The team would successfully complete a 24-hour endurance golf challenge in Alma at Eagle Crest Golf Course. The goal was to raise $10k through donations and auctions. However, the team exceeded that amount by raising over $12k.

Not only did the team exceed their fundraising goal, but they also shattered personal records. “We started at 8 a.m. on a Friday (April 12) and finished at 8 a.m., Saturday,” shared Mickle. “We walked over 65 miles and 8,000 ft. elevation total.”

Mickle and the extreme golfing team shattered their own personal bests, as well as those in the Guinness World Records. (RNN photos / Lex Mickle)

To land a world record in Guinness, the team had to beat 180 holes. They completed 200, all in a 24- hour time span. The team was also required to video their attempt and have two witnesses present at all times.

Night fell on Eagle Crest Golf Course as the five-man team endured the 24-hour challenge by headlamp. (RNN photo / Lex Mickle)

On Tuesday, July 23, Robertson received an email from Guinness World Records that the Endure4Eden challenge was officially recognized as a successful world record.

Robertson initiated E4E in hopes of bringing awareness to the rare condition and for his daughter, Eden. Robertson was recently honored for his unique fundraising efforts at a Phelan McDermid Foundation Syndrome family conference.

The team was required to record the entire 24-hour, 200-hole challenge to be eligible for the world record. (RNN photo / Lex Mickle)

Another member of the golfing team, Brunet, has a sister who is also impacted by the condition.

The Phelan McDermid Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing hope, help and answers by supporting and connecting families, improving medical care, and driving research breakthroughs. E4E raises money and awareness through athletic and endurance challenges to benefit the Phelan-McDermid Foundation.

Guinness World Record holders! (RNN photo / Lex Mickle)

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