Resident News Network

Arrest Reports 1/28

Police Reports

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5:52 pm

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Haley Cheyenne Brooks of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 3 at 3:25 a.m. and released on signature bond February 3 at 8:57 a.m. Brooks was charged with disorderly conduct – fighting.

Sierra Ann Johnson of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 3 at 1:42 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Johnson was charged with aggravated assault.

Chasitee Kaleena Painter of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 31 at 7:05 p.m. and released on February 3 at 2:18 a.m. Painter was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Ricky Rushworth of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 2 at 8:32 p.m. and released on signature bond February 3 at 5:05 a.m. Rushworth was charged with Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others.

Dustin Wayne Tankersley of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 1 at 7:02 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Tankersley was charged with Breaking or Entering- – Building, Structure or Vehicle, Obstructing Governmental Operations-ID, and Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Arresting agency – Mansfield Police Department:
Carl James Chapman of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 1 at 7:06 p.m. and released on bond February 2 at 10:15 p.m. Chapman was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony, and two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Anthony Dwain Peoples of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 1 at 9:23 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Peoples was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office:
Dustin Dakota Cripps of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 29 at 6:32 p.m. and released on signature bond January 29 at 9:11 p.m. Cripps was charged with game and fish reg. 5.02 night hunting violation, and game and fish regulation 13.02 chasing bears with dogs.

Daniel Vincent Guess of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 30 at 1:15 a.m. and released on bond February 1 at 10:40 p.m. Guess was charged with Resisting Arrest Misdemeanor, and Public Intoxication – Annoyance.

Sandra L Hutchins of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 29 at 8:48 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Hutchins was charged with Possession of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] with the Purpose to Deliver >4oz., Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, and Trafficking [Schedule I/II Controlled Substance].

Donald Allen Lackey of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 29 at 8:50 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Lackey was charged with parole violation, Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, Possession of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] with the Purpose to Deliver >4oz, and Trafficking [Schedule I/II Controlled Substance].

Timothy Leroy Martin, II of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 29 at 11:38 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Martin was charged with parole violation and Trafficking [Schedule I/II Controlled Substance].

Krystin Kimberly Rawles of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 28 at 12:40 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Rawles was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Misd., return to testify, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Shayna Raelynn Scrivner of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 2 at 10:42 a.m. and released on February 3 at 11:11 a.m. Scrivner was charged with drug court sanctions.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Heather L Hudson of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 28 at 1:19 a.m. and released on January 30 at 2:42 p.m. Hudson was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked, and Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.

Crystal Rose Wieneke of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 28 at 8:10 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond January 28 at 10:30 p.m. Wieneke was charged with DWI I – Drugs Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Obrien James Irwin of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 30 at 3:55 a.m. and released on signature bond February 1 at 2:56 p.m. Irwin was charged with Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others, Disorderly Conduct – Obscene Language or Gesture, Fleeing – By Vehicle-Misd., and Reckless Driving 1st Offense.

Arresting agency – Arkansas Parole:
Dustin David Johnson of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on January 30 at 12:14 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Johnson was charged with parole violation.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Tyner Tankersley, 35 of Russellville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on January 28 at 4:20 p.m. Tankersley was charged with two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, no insurance, and furnishing possessing using delivering prohibited articles.

Tammy Cotton, 51 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on January 30 at 1:47 a.m. Cotton was charged with failure to pay.

Haskal Swanson, 33 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on January 31 at 1:44 p.m. Swanson was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to pay.

Joshua Giddens, 44 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on January 31 at 4:39 p.m. Giddens was charged with resisting arrest, three counts of possession of a controlled substance, escape in the third degree, fleeing, two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, theft of property, and two counts of criminal mischief in the second degree.

Brenda Stinnet, 39 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on January 31 at 5:21 p.m. Stinnet was charged with possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Eric King, 29, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 1 at 5:35 p.m. King was charged with return for court.

Michael McGrath, 43, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 1 at 5:40 p.m. McGrath was charged with return for court.

Amanda Wilkins, 42 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 2 at 4:32 p.m. Wilkins was sentenced to ADC.

Andra McClanahan, 23 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 2 at 6:15 p.m. McClanahan was charged with contempt of court.

Anthony Hampton, 27 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 2 at 7:03 p.m. Hampton was charged with rape.

Spirit McMurray, 27 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 3 at 3:46 p.m. McMurray was charged with failure to appear.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Jason Edward Miller, 41 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 3 at 8:32 a.m. Miller was charged with public intoxication.

Toan Nhut Nguyen, 40 of Tyler, TX, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 2 at 8:51 p.m. Nguyen was charged with failure to appear.

Theresa Ruffener, 54 of Oark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 2 at 5:56 p.m. Ruffener was charged with no proof of liability insurance, no driver’s license, driving while intoxicated – DWI 1st, open container containing alcohol in motor vehicle.

Christpher Beavers, 51, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 2 at 3:14 p.m. Beavers was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor.

Zachary Britt, 26 of Dardanelle, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 2 at 2:35 p.m. Britt was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor.

Hayley Dee Miesner, 46 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 1 at 8:51 p.m. Miesner was charged with possession of meth or cocaine LT 2GM, and possession of drug paraphernalia meth/cocaine.

Storm Logan Smith, 28 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 1 at 3:08 p.m. Smith was charged with failure to appear, and failure to comply with conditions of pre-trial release.

Derrick J Lawson, 33 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on January 28 at 9:07 a.m. Lawson was sentenced to ADC.

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

Extension financial expert offers filing tips for 2023 tax season

Lifestyle

Tammy Teague

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4:27 pm

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Extension financial expert offers filing tips for 2023 tax season

By Rebekah Hall
U of A System Division of Agriculture

With the start of tax season on Jan. 29, the Internal Revenue Service has begun accepting and processing 2023 tax year returns. The standard deduction, which is adjusted annually for inflation, increased for tax year 2023 and will also increase for tax year 2024.

TAX TIPS — Laura Hendrix, extension associate professor of personal finance and consumer economics for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said it’s important for taxpayers to gather and organize necessary documents and information before filing for the 2023 tax year. (Division of Agriculture photo.)

Laura Hendrix, extension associate professor of personal finance and consumer economics for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said a taxpayer may choose to take the standard deduction or to itemize their deductions.

“There are several factors that can influence a taxpayer’s choice, including changes to their tax situation, any changes to the standard deduction amount and recent tax law changes,” Hendrix said. “Generally, most taxpayers use the option that gives them the lowest overall tax, and most people take the standard deduction, which changes each year for inflation.”

Hendrix said deductions are subtracted from a taxpayer’s income to determine adjusted gross income, or AGI, which is the amount on which an individual pays taxes.

“The more deductions you have, the lower your AGI and the less you will pay in taxes,” Hendrix said. “Deductions can reduce the amount of a taxpayer’s income before they calculate the tax they owe.”

Itemized deductions that taxpayers may claim include state and local income or sales tax, real estate and personal property taxes, home mortgage interest, personal casualty and theft losses from a federally declared disaster, gifts to a qualified charity and unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of AGI.

Hendrix said the amount of one’s standard deduction depends on a taxpayer’s filing status, age, whether they are blind and whether the taxpayer is claimed as a dependent by someone else.

“Generally, if a taxpayer’s itemized deductions are larger than their standard deduction, it makes sense for them to itemize,” she said. “Taxpayers who choose to itemize deductions should read the instructions for Schedule A and complete Form 1040, Itemized Deductions.”

Standard deduction amounts for tax year 2023, filing in 2024:

For married couples filing jointly: $27,000, up $1,800 from 2022
For single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately: $13,850, up $900 from 2022
For heads of households: $20,800, up $1,400 from 2022

Standard deduction amounts for tax year 2024, filing in 2025:

For married couples filing jointly: $29,200, up $1,500 from 2023
For single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately: $14,600, up $750 from 2023
For heads of households: $21,900, up $1,100 from 2023

Preparation is key

The IRS expects more than 128 million individual tax returns to be filed by the April 15, 2024, tax deadline. Hendrix said it’s important for individuals and families to keep organized records for tax filing.

“It’s like getting all your ingredients ready before preparing a meal, though not as fun,” Hendrix said.

To do things “quickly and the right way,” Hendrix said taxpayers should have the following information ready before sitting down to file:

Social security numbers for yourself, your spouse and any dependents
Last year’s tax returns — federal and state
All of your W-2 forms if you were paid as an employee
All of your 1099 forms if you were paid, for example, as an independent contractor
Forms received from bank and investment accounts detailing interest earned, capital gains and losses and retirement account contributions
If you run your own business, a list of business expenses to see if they are deductible
Mortgage and property tax statements
Charitable contributions
Unreimbursed medical expenses
Education expenses
Child or dependent care expenses

Tax credits

Hendrix said the Earned Income Tax Credit is a refundable credit. “If you have worked and earned income under $59,187 in 2023, you may qualify,” she said. “Even if you know you won’t owe any taxes, you should still file for EITC. The credit will be sent to you as a refund.”

Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are tax credits for filers with qualifying dependents. The Child Tax Credit is worth a maximum of $2,000 per qualifying child. Up to $1,600 is refundable as the Additional Child Tax Credit. CTC is applied to the tax bill, and ACTC is refundable. Children must be under the age of 17 and must have lived with the taxpayer for more than half the year.
Child and Dependent Care Credit: Tax filers may claim between 20 and 35 percent of care expenses, up to $3,000 for one qualifying individual or $6,000 for two or more qualifying individuals. Expenses paid for the care of a qualifying individual are eligible expenses if the primary reason for paying the expense is to assure the individual’s well-being and protection. The percentage claim allowed (20-35 percent) is based on income, with lower-income filers receiving a higher percentage allowed for the credit.

The IRS Tax Assistant at www.irs.gov/help/ita is an online tool and calculator that can help filers determine qualification and estimate amounts.

Filing resources

The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically with direct deposit, as this is the fastest and easiest way to receive a refund.

“Avoid advanced refund options offered by tax preparers that charge high fees,” Hendrix added.

IRS Free File

If your income is $79,000 or less, you qualify for a free federal tax return. Access free online tax preparation and filing at an IRS partner site through IRS Free File.
If your income is more than $79,000, you can access fillable forms to prepare your own return without assistance.
irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free

MyFreeTaxes

United Way provides MyFreeTaxes in partnership with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program to help filers prepare their tax returns on their own or have their return prepared for them for free. Consumers making less than $60,000 qualify for free tax prep.
myfreetaxes.com

In-person tax prep

VITA and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) do free tax prep in person. For locations, visit treasury.gov/freetaxprepv or on the AARP Tax Aid at www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/locations.html

Tax filing assistance for Military

MilTax e-filing software is free for service members, eligible family members and survivors.
mil/financial-legal/taxes/miltax-military-tax-services/

For more information, visit IRS.gov. For extension resources on personal finance, visit uaex.uada.edu/money.

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

About the Division of Agriculture

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s mission is to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best practices. Through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service, the Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation’s historic land grant education system.

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

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

Obituary – Benny Hubby (1936 – 2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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4:23 pm

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Benny Hubby, 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior, February 2, 2024. Benny was born December 11, 1936 in Clovis, NM Benjamin and Ollie Hubby.

Ben was born in Clovis, New Mexico in 1936. He graduated from Clovis High School and joined the Navy. He served aboard the USS New Jersey and the USS Northhampton as a machinist. He is a veteran of the Korean War and sailed both across the Arctic Circle (Blue Nose) and across the equator (Shellback). He also served with the American Red Cross in the mid-1960’s in Cam Rahn Bay, Vietnam.

After his initial tour in the Navy, he began studying at Bethany Nazarene College in Bethany, Oklahoma. During this time, he would visit his parents, who then lived near Waldron, Arkansas. It was there where he met the love of his life, Freddie Jo (Hale) Hubby. They would remain married for 54 years, when Freddie passed away after a battle with Lymphoma. They would have two children together: Cindy (Hubby) Klatt and Tim Hubby.

After completing college, Ben would enjoy a successful career in commercial insurance and as a loss control consultant. He would eventually retire from insurance and pursue his love of gardening, boating, etc. He would earn his Master Gardener designation and use these skills to plan and enhance gardens at various nursing homes as a volunteer. His service in the Navy gave him lifelong love of boating, and he would eventually buy a houseboat and spend hours on the water (sometimes lost).

He always loved spending time with family, and his cooking specialty was making the most delicious biscuits and gravy. Anytime family was in town, it wasn’t “breakfast” without Papa Ben’s biscuits and gravy. In his final years, he settled into an assisted living community that he loved, where he made many new friends and spent his last years happy and content.

Benny leaves behind to cherish his memory, his daughter Cindy Klatt and husband Larry, son Tim Hubby and wife Elizabeth Hubby. Papa Ben will forever remain in the hearts of his grandchildren: Whitney Barron (Taylor), Justin Deaton, Vivian Hubby, Grace Hubby and great-granddaughter Pearl Barron and great-grandson Duke Barron. Benny will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of nieces, nephews, friends neighbors and loved ones.

Benny was preceded in death by the love of his life, Freddie Hubby and his parents: Benjamin and Ollie Hubby.

Benny’s graveside life celebration will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 5, 2024 at the Union Hill Cemetery in Union Hill Arkansas with Rev. Zach Hale officiating.

We wish to thank the Fayetteville Home Based Primary Care unit at the Fayetteville VA for their years of devotion and care for our father. They were Godsend! In the end, the actions and services provided by the Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Arkansas were such a comfort to him and us. Their thoughtfulness and compassion made this very difficult time more bearable and helped us focus on just spending our final minutes with him in peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Obituary – Robert Sharpe (1949 – 2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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4:19 pm

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Robert Louise Sharpe of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with his Lord and Savior, Thursday, January 31, 2024 in Fort Smith, Arkansas with loved ones by his side. Robert was born September 13, 1949 to Harry Sharpe and Bessie Mae (Hadley) Sharpe. He was 74 years old. Robert attended the Winfield Baptist Church in Waldron.

Robert married the love of his life, Debra, in 1987. Together they raised their children and became treasured grandparents. Robert retired from John Deer as a machinist. After retirement Robert and Debra relocated to Waldron where they enjoyed living in the country. Robert went fishing every chance he could, he enjoyed watching car races, bull riding, and old westerns. His favorite past time was spending time with his family.

Robert leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife Debra of the home and his children: Robert Sharpe Jr. of Idaho, Frank Sharpe (Nina) of Claremore, Oklahoma, Joanie Rader (Scott) of Hot Springs, Arkansas and step daughter Angela Zuasanabar (Juan) of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Robert is also survived by his siblings: Harry Sharpe of St. Paul, Minnesota, Jimmy Sharpe of Delaware, Oklahoma, Billy Sharpe of Coffeyville, Kansas, Ann Rexwinkle of Coffeyville, Kansas and Sue Fisher of Kansas City, Missouri. Robert will forever remain in the hearts of a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren. Robert will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of extended family, friends and neighbors he loved dearly.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Bessie Mae, one son Kevin Sharpe, one stepson Brian Nalley and one sister Charlotte Bland.

Robert’s life celebration will be 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at the Winfield Baptist Church in Winfield, Arkansas with Rev. William Crelia and Rev. Konnor McKay officiating. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Robert’s visitation will be Tuesday, February 6, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.

ASP Seized More Than 11,000 Pounds of Illegal Drugs and $1.4 Million From Arkansas Highways in 2023

News

Tammy Teague

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7:20 pm

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ASP Seized More Than 11,000 Pounds of Illegal Drugs and $1.4 Million From Arkansas Highways in 2023

In 2023, Arkansas State Police (ASP) saw a significant rise in illegal drug seizures during traffic stops compared to the previous year. ASP’s Interstate Criminal Patrol (ICP) identified 138 significant seizures in 2023.

The amount of cocaine seizures showed a significant increase, with a total of 353 pounds confiscated in 2023. The street value of the amount of the confiscated cocaine is more than $15 million. These seizures represent a 146% increase from the 2022 seizure of 143.35 pounds of cocaine by ASP.

Sprinter van carrying over 1,000 pounds of THC-related items seized in Pulaski County.

“These substantial seizures should serve as a powerful warning to anyone engaged in unlawful activities on Arkansas highways,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar. “State Police will remain vigilant and committed to keeping the roads safe for law-abiding citizens.”

In June, ASP made the largest cocaine seizure of 2023 on Interstate 40 in Lonoke County. During a search of a truck hauling a track hoe near Lonoke, they discovered 146 pounds (or 66 kilograms) of cocaine. The estimated street value of the illegal drugs is over $6.5 million. The two suspects were transporting a Caterpillar excavator with hidden compartments in the frames of the trailer. As a result of the investigation, the rig, trailer, and excavator were all confiscated.

Illegal marijuana seizures were up by more than 2,000 pounds year to year. 10,386 pounds were seized in 2023 compared to 8,015 pounds in 2022. Seven out of the top ten illegal marijuana seizures came out of Crawford County, with the largest confiscation from a traffic stop on Interstate 40 in January. During that stop, 939 pounds of illegal marijuana and 141 pounds of illegal THC products were uncovered.

The second-highest seizure of illegal marijuana was in December of 2023. ASP found 869 pounds of high-grade illegal marijuana after a traffic stop on Interstate 30 in Lonoke County. The street value of that illegal marijuana was more than $3.6 million. The vehicle’s driver, a 33-year-old from Brazil, was driving from California to Miami. The suspect was charged him with Drug Trafficking, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and other charges.

Fentanyl seizures were down but still substantial (65 pounds in 2022 to 46 pounds in 2023). In June of 2023, ASP found 50,000 Fentanyl pills with a street value of over $2 million. The driver and a passenger were taken into custody after a Trooper stopped the vehicle for an improper lane change between Protho Junction and the Interstate 440 interchange. During a search of the vehicle, the Trooper seized 11.83 pounds or 5 kilograms of Fentanyl.

Cash seized during traffic stops increased from 2022 to 2023. Last year, ASP confiscated over $1.4 million, compared to $996,000 in 2022. In September, during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 in Lonoke County, Troopers discovered 18 vacuum-sealed bags of cash hidden throughout a tractor trailer, which led to the seizure of over $545,000.

In 2023, ASP confiscated various illegal THC products, including 187 pounds of marijuana edibles, more than 30 pounds of THC wax, and 1470 illegal THC cartridges from a driver who claimed he was driving through Arkansas from California to Georgia.

Additionally, in October of 2023, ASP and the Arkansas Tobacco Control seized an unprecedented number of illegal cigarettes. The seizure involved 32,671 packs of untaxed cigarettes worth more than $311,000. A Trooper stopped a cargo van on Interstate 40 near Carlisle and discovered numerous cartons of contraband cigarettes during a search of the cargo area.

A 35-year-old from of El Paso, Texas, was charged with Possession of Untaxed Tobacco and Unauthorized Use of Another Person’s Property to Facilitate Certain Crimes.

Other illegal drugs seized in 2023 include psilocybin mushrooms, 1 pound of black tar heroin, 420 bottles of promethazine, and 56 pounds of methamphetamine. During other traffic stops in the past year, ASP confiscated a variety of pharmaceutical drugs, including Xanax, Hydrocodone, and Ketamine, and 21 illegal weapons.

Seized drugs are sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for analysis and then stored during prosecution. After cases are adjudicated, the drugs are transported to an incinerator for disposal. Seized weapons are destroyed, later used by law enforcement, or sold at public auction.

Seized cash that is determined to be forfeited goes to prosecuting attorney in the jurisdiction where it was initially seized. Prosecuting attorneys decide how the money is distributed.

Sometimes, money is shared between multiple agencies. When ASP receives funds, it is used to purchase equipment and provide training. 20% of seized funds go to the U.S. Marshals Service in every federal forfeiture.

“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

Lifestyle

Tammy Teague

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5:29 pm

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“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

By Sheri Hopkins, Lifestyle Contributor

Hello everyone! We went from winter to spring. I love this weather, such nice days we are having. Punxsutawney Phil has made his prediction; an early spring is headed our way. I know he is just a rodent, but he’s a famous rodent.

Have I told y’all my house is haunted? Every time I look in the mirror, a chubby old lady appears. I thought that was sooo funny.

I want to tell y’all another story about my mother. I’ve told y’all 100 times she had Alzheimer’s. My mom always sang at church and led songs as long as I can remember. Even when she was in advanced stage, she could get up and sing and not forget the words. It makes me cry to think about it. Never missed a beat. She would bless people with her singing and loved to go to church.

I know y’all remember Shirley Gillis. She was such a precious person. Mom would ask her questions about her mom, Marie Clopton that had passed away. Shirley would always answer her and be so patent with mom. Almost without fail, every service mom would ask Shirley how her mom was doing. Even the most patient can break every once in a while. One night after service, mom, again, asked Shirley how her mom was. Shirley responded with, “Janice she is dead.” In my mom fashion, she replied, “whaaaaat?” I laugh thinking about it. That Shirley was a jewel for sure.

When my husband passed away, mom didn’t recognize many people. She was sitting in the kitchen, we had a house full of people, my two brothers were standing outside, and she could see them through the window. She looks and says, “there are my boys.” It made me cry, she remembered them. We had a lot of laughs at my house with her. She loved Jacob and Jimmy and all the little kids. If your mom is still alive, make time for her. You won’t regret it.

This week’s recipe is for a chocolate dump cake. I love chocolate.

CHOCOLATE DUMP CAKE
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
1 box chocolate cake mix (you can use fudge or milk chocolate, just whatever you like)
1 (5.1 oz.) box of chocolate instant pudding
2 1/2 cups of whole milk
1 (12 oz.) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
Spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly in the pan. Sprinkle the dry instant pudding on top of the cake mix. Add the milk to the melted butter (make sure the butter isn’t too hot). Pour the milk/butter mixture on top of the cake and pudding. Use a whisk to mix slightly, you don’t need to stir entirely, but you do want it slightly mixed, so it bakes evenly. Sprinkle the entire bag of chocolate chips across the top. Place in the oven to bake for 40-45 minutes. Serve with ice cream.

Clarksville fruit station to host March 6 pruning workshop for fruit, pecan growers

Tammy Teague

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12:17 pm

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Clarksville fruit station to host March 6 pruning workshop for fruit, pecan growers

By Mary Hightower
U of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

The art of pruning — knowing what and how to cut — is a key component to growing healthy, productive fruits, nuts and berries.

Horticulture experts with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture will be demonstrating proper pruning techniques on March 6 during a half-day workshop at the Fruit Research Station, 1749 State Highway 818, near Clarksville. The workshop runs from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Cost to attend is $20 and registration deadline is March 1.

For more info contact Meredith Crawford at [email protected] or (479) 754-2406. Participants may register online.

“Nutrients and protection from pests are only part of the equation for growing healthy and productive specialty crops,” said Jackie Lee, resident director of the Fruit Research Station, part of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. “Our hands-on workshop is for fruit and pecan growers who want to sharpen their pruning skills for better plant growth and yields.”

The workshop will demonstrate pruning techniques for peaches, blackberries, muscadines/grapes, blueberries and pecans.

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

About the Division of Agriculture

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s mission is to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best practices. Through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service, the Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation’s historic land grant education system.

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

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate or need materials in another format, please contact (479) 754-2406 as soon as possible. Dial 711 for Arkansas Relay.

Benefits of Fixed-Income Investments

Business

Tammy Teague

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12:05 pm

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When many people think about investing, the first thing that comes to mind is the stock market. And that’s not surprising, as the rise and fall of stock prices is constantly in the news. But if you’re going to achieve your financial goals, you may well need to look beyond stocks and include fixed-income investments in your portfolio.

Fixed-income investments offer three important benefits:

• Income – When you invest in fixed-income vehicles, such as bonds, Treasury securities and certificates of deposit (CDs), you receive regular income in the form of interest payments. And you continue to receive this income until your investment matures or you sell it, no matter what’s happening in the financial markets. Of course, the income you can receive fromfixed-income investments will always depend on the interest rates at which these investments were issued. But if you own a mix of long-term and short-term fixed-income investments, you can gain some protection against fluctuating rates. When market rates are low, you can get greater income from yourlonger-term bonds, which typically — although not always —pay higher rates. And when market rates rise, you can benefitby reinvesting the proceeds from your shorter-term bonds.

• Diversification – If you were only to own stocks, or stock-based mutual funds, your portfolio would be susceptible tohigher risks, especially with market downturns. But you may be able to reduce the impact of market volatility by adding fixed-income investments to your holdings. Bond prices often move in a different direction from stocks, so if stock prices are falling, you might find that the value of your bonds is rising. You can also diversify within the fixed-income portion of your portfolio by owning a mix of corporate and Treasury bonds, as well as CDs,just to name a few.

• Stability – As mentioned, you will always receive interest payments from your bonds if you hold them until maturity. But if you wanted to sell your bonds before they mature, you could get more, or less, than what you originally paid for them. When market interest rates rise, the price of your current bonds will likely fall, as no one will pay you the full price for them when they get newer ones that pay more — this is what’s known as interest-rate risk. Conversely, when market rates fall, the prices of your current bonds will probably rise. But here’s the key point to remember: Bond prices generally don’t fluctuate as much asstock prices. In other words, bonds are typically less volatile than stocks. Consequently, owning bonds can add diversification to your portfolio. And to maximize the stabilizing effects of bonds, you may want to stick with high-quality bonds rated as “investment grade” by independent bond-rating agencies.

How much of your portfolio should consist of fixed-incomeinvestments? There’s no one right answer for everyone. And over time, your interest in these types of investments may well change — for example, as you near retirement, you may want to consider shifting some of your growth-oriented investments into income-producing ones, though you’ll still need some growth potential to keep up with inflation. In any case, the combination of income, diversification and stability provided by bonds and similar securities should be compelling enough for you to find a place for them in your investment mix.

This article is provided by Jeffrey O’Neal, Financial Advisor

Edward Jones

20 N Express St, Paris, AR 72855

479-963-1321

jeffrey.o’[email protected]

edwardjones.com/jeffrey-o’neal

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

National survey sheds new light on outdoor participation

Outdoors

Tammy Teague

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6:43 pm

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National survey sheds new light on outdoor participation

By Jeff Williams

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has followed trends in the outdoors since 1955 by conducting the National Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation Survey about every five years. It’s a massive, continuous effort.

Public conservation and wildlife agencies across the U.S. – including the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission – and commercial enterprises rely on the survey to reveal peaks and valleys in the numbers of hunters, anglers and others who participate in outdoor-related endeavors. The latest version, the 2022 edition, marks a departure from methods used in the past.

“Though the intent of the survey remains the same, because of changes in the sampling design and how questions were asked, the USFWS is adamant that we not compare the results from the 2022 survey to previous iterations,” Jessica Feltz, an AGFC conservation social scientist, said. “The 2022 survey is now serving as the new baseline for estimates of outdoor recreation in the United States.”

The survey is paid for by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies’ Multistate Conservation Grant Program.

“Starting with the 1985 survey, individual state-level reports became available,” Feltz said. “On top of the national survey, every state automatically got results of a subsample from those who took the survey from their state.”

These state reports were no longer automatic with the 2022 survey, although Arkansas was one of 15 states that opted for a state-specific report. Fighting the urge to make comparisons with previous surveys isn’t easy, although changes in the way the latest survey was conducted make a clear case that such comparisons would not be valid.

According to the latest survey, about 15 percent of Americans 16 and older fished an average of 20 days during 2022. Sixty-seven percent of them were male, seventy-five percent were White and 36 percent were in the 25-44 age group.

“The average expenditure per angler in 2022 was about $2,500,” Feltz said. “This could have been trip expenditures, equipment, license fees or other expenses.” Feltz pointed out that among ethnic groups, Asian-Americans had the highest rate of fishing participation at 20 percent.

In Arkansas, 516,000 people 16 and older fished, or about 28 percent of residents 16-34. Thirty percent of men and 15 percent of women in Arkansas fished; they spent $3.8 billion in 2022. Hispanics led all ethnicities in participation rate at 28 percent. About 391,000 people came to Arkansas to go fishing.

About 5.5 percent of Americans hunted in 2022, and 80 percent of those pursued big game such as elk, deer, bear or wild turkey. They averaged 12 days hunting big game and eight days chasing migratory birds, and spent an average of $857 on hunting-related costs. Seventy-seven percent of hunters were male and 35 percent were 55 or older. About 270,000 Arkansans hunted, or 19 percent of residents 16-34. Eighteen percent of men and 6 percent of women hunted; they spent about $1.7 billion. About 127,000 people came from other states to pursue game in Arkansas.

The survey defined wildlife watching as “closely observing, feeding or photographing wildlife, visiting public spaces to view wildlife, and maintaining plantings and natural areas around the home for the benefit of wildlife.” Trips were captured as either being done around the home or greater than one mile away from the home.

Fifty-seven percent of Americans fit the definition. Birding was the most popular activity among wildlife watchers; birders averaged 78 days in 2022, and 44 percent of them traveled to observe birds. Each wildlife watcher spent an average of $2,188.

Sixty-four percent (1.5 million) of Arkansans 16 and older were wildlife watchers, including 69 percent of men and 60 percent of women. About 1.2 million people came to see wildlife in Arkansas. Wildlife watchers in the state spent $7.1 billion during the year. Sport-shooting statistics were included in the survey for the first time, revealing that 47 million Americans participated in target shooting in 2021 (579,000 Arkansans). Nineteen million people participated in target archery (248,000 Arkansans) and 48 million (499,000 Arkansans) took part in motorized pleasure boating (not fishing). These figures are just a glimpse of the statistics captured within the revamped national and state surveys, which will stand up to comparison in the future.

Visit the USFWS survey site to learn more about the results of the survey on a national level.

Catholic School Week in Logan County

News

Tammy Teague

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7:33 pm

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Paris Saint Joseph’s Catholic school celebrated the National Catholic Schools week on Jan. 28^th to Feb. 4^th. The school organized a week of special events to celebrate the role and importance of Catholic education to the community. The week began with a proclamation by Mayor Daniel Rogers followed by a special science program presented by the Doctor of Science; Curtis Varnell, science specialist at the Guy Fenter Education Service Coop. All students dressed up in sports jerseys for the ‘Souper Bowl” canned soup drive to benefit the community Outreach of Logan County. On Tuesday, it was teacher dress day with students dressing as teachers for a day. During the day, the living Rosary was presented in the church hall and the kids enjoyed a day of fun with a movie and a trip to Daddio’s arcade with games, pizza and snacks.

The Kinders music group, presented a 45-minute concert on Wednesday. Supported, in part, by the Arkansas Art Council, the group were a big hit with the students.

Other events were conducted throughout the week with special mass services, singing, guest speakers from the community, and a grandparents visit.

St. Joseph’s school and church has been a big part of the community for more than 100 years. The first St. Joseph’s was built at the present site in 1881. It consisted of a white frame building with an “onion” steeple with no bells. Bells were later added when a platform was built on the west side of the church and daily tolling of the hours became a part of downtown Paris.

A four room house and a one room school eventually were added south of the main building. Over the years, the facilities have been improved and expanded to include the present day campus. The church is now a large beautiful building, a bell tower, and an expansive chapel and organ. The school is located directly behind the church and consist of several classrooms, a basement cafeteria, and a new two room building that houses pre-school and kindergarten. School days began daily with a visit to the church followed by every student meeting at the flagpole for the pledge. The goal has always been a quality education in a Christian environment and St. Joseph’s has, and continues, to provide this for the students of North Logan County.

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RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK