Resident News Network

Poachers pay Arkansas schools more than a half-million dollars in 2024

Outdoors

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6:55 pm

Poachers pay Arkansas schools more than a half-million dollars in 2024

By Randy Zellers

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission Division of Rural Services awarded grants worth $537,209 this week to schools throughout the state thanks to wildlife fines collected by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

The AGFC does not use any of the money derived from wildlife violation fines in capital expenditures or operating costs. Instead, all fine money is collected and distributed to schools and conservation districts in the form of grants focused specifically on conservation education in Arkansas.

“The best way to prevent future violations is to instill a love of the resource in our future hunters, anglers and outdoors enthusiasts and teach them why it’s so important to follow the regulations,” AGFC Director Austin Booth said. “Every hunter is faced with the decision to follow the rules or cheat the system every time they put on a pair of waders or hunter orange vest. The things they learn today through increased conservation education programs could be the very thing that molds them into the ethical sportsmen and sportswomen our wildlife resources deserve.”

Schools in 67 counties were awarded grants, and 240 awards were made, according to Becca Caldwell, Director of Rural Services for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.

“Outdoor recreation is a vital part of Arkansas’s quality of life, and it is an important draw for people looking at The Natural State as a place to live, work and raise a family,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “We are proud to help support wildlife education and conservation programs in schools across Arkansas, growing our outdoor recreation economy and building stronger communities throughout the state.”

JJ Gladden, AGFC assistant chief of education, said the fine money grant partnership has been a huge success for many schools, particularly those in rural areas with limited budgets.

All schools in the state are eligible to participate in the program, but only money collected in the county where the violation occurred may be used as grant funds for that county.

The funding has helped schools create and maintain archery, fishing, and competitive shooting sports programs. Schools also have used the money to help improve wildlife education by purchasing educational materials, materials for the creation of indoor and outdoor habitats, lab supplies, and field trips to AGFC nature and education centers. Conservation districts have used the funding to help promote wildlife conservation awareness in the communities by hosting environmental education days and fishing derbies for children of all ages.

“Budgets are so tight in some districts, they’re barely able to cover the cost of core classes,” Gladden said. “The fine money grant program enables us to help shoulder some of the load and bring all sorts of great education programs to the kids. Many of these children will be the future of conservation and we can’t let money get in the way of their future.”

For more information, including a complete list of 2024 Game and Fish Wildlife Grant Award recipients and program narratives, visit https://www.arkansasedc.com/Rural-Services/division.

Obituary: Bobby Bonds (1939-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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12:17 pm

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Bobby Gene Bonds of Elm Park, Arkansas went to be with his Lord and Savior, Tuesday, February 27, 2024 in Charleston, Arkansas with his loved ones by his side. Bobby was born May 15, 1939 in Elm Park, Arkansas to Lee and Ida Belle Bonds. He was 84 years old. Bobby was a longtime member of Packsaddle Community Church. He was a devout Christian and loved to share his faith with everyone.

Bobby met the love of his life, Minnie, at a very young age. They grew up together in the same area and became best friends, companions and eventually marrying. They enjoyed 61 blessed years before Minnie went to wait for Bobby in Heaven. The love they had for each other and their family was priceless and an example for all. Bobby was a very proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He was a huge supporter of all military organizations. Bobby spent countless hours enjoying long visits with his brother J.L. and together while sitting on the porch, they would “solve all the world problems”. He never met a stranger and always had a smile and a warm welcome for all. Gardening, shopping and eating fast food hamburgers were just a few of the things Bobby loved. However, spending time with his family, laughing and making sweet memories, was what Bobby treasured most.

Bobby leaves behind to cherish his memory, his children: Tammie Gray of Greenwood, Arkansas and Eugene Bonds of Elm Park, Arkansas. Papa will forever remain in the hearts of his grandchildren: Michael Gray, Samantha Jones, Paige Spann, Allison Griffis, Cameron Bonds and Madalyn Knight as well as his great grandchildren: Liam, Braxton, Kason, Adaleigh, Rylea, Tristen, Madisyn and Brinleigh. Bobby is also survived by his companion dog Foxy and one brother, J.L. Bonds. Bobby will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of extended family, friends, neighbors and loved ones dear to his heart.

Bobby was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Minnie Bonds, his parents, Lee and Ida Bell, two brothers: Jimmy Bonds and Wayne Bonds and his beloved Shorkie, Remi

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Richard and Lou Gray who went above and beyond to help with Bob. Also a special thanks to Heart of Hospice who provided amazing care during the last few weeks of his life.

Bobby’s celebration of life will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 4, 2024 at the Packsaddle Community Church near Waldron, Arkansas with Rev. Jeff Wilkinson and Rev. Tim Smith officiating. Interment will follow in the Freedom Cemetery near Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Bobby’s pallbearers will be Eugene Bonds, Cameron Bonds, Billy Spann, Jeff Hendrick, Richard Gray, Justin Jones, Michael Gray and Jeff Gray. Honorary pallbearers will be J.L. Bonds and the men of Packsaddle Church.

Bobby’s visitation will be Sunday, March 3, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.

Arkansas bass tournaments tally solid statistics in 2023

Outdoors

Tammy Teague

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10:51 am

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Arkansas bass tournaments tally solid statistics in 2023

By Randy Zellers

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Black Bass Program has released the latest annual report from the Arkansas Tournament Information Program, and anglers may want to take note of some highlights as they prepare to hit the water this spring.

Jeremy Risley, BBP coordinator for the AGFC, explained that ATIP reports are derived from data voluntarily submitted by tournament directors throughout the state. Tournament weights, number of anglers, numbers of fish caught and numbers of fish over 5 pounds are submitted to the AGFC. Biologists compile those details to derive some interesting notes about Arkansas’s more popular tournament fishing locations. Tournament statistics can vary based on a number of factors, but biologists can still use some of the data for management decisions.“We can use the catch rates of 5-pound bass in tournaments to help make decisions on stocking Florida bass, for instance,” Risley said. “ATIP data alone won’t drive those decisions, but it definitely plays a part in the decision-making process.”

Largemouth bass are the most pursued species of fish in Arkansas. Photo courtesy of Trader Bill’s Team Trail.

For the third year in a row, Lake Nimrod stood out as the top destination for bass tournaments. The lake is too small and the surrounding area doesn’t have the hotels and other facilities to handle most large tournaments, but it’s become a regular stop for most small and mid-sized bass clubs in central Arkansas.

“Nimrod has really only been high in the rankings during the last few years,” Risley said. “Mainly because there haven’t been enough tournament cards turned in from it to get data that’s comparable to the rest of the lakes on the list.”

Anglers focused on larger lakes and larger bass tournaments should know most of the lakes rounding out the top five for 2023: Millwood Lake, Lake Chicot, Lake Ouachita and Bull Shoals Lake.

Risley also added some noteworthy highlights and a “State of Arkansas Tournament Fishing” in this year’s report to give some added insight into where the Black Bass Program is headed.

“Sharing the data with our anglers is great, but it’s also important to keep that line of communication open to keep them in the loop about what those numbers mean, how we work to interpret the data and what we are doing to improve the resource,” Risley said.

Some notable statistics from last year’s tournaments include:

Fifteen tournaments reported winning weights over 20 pounds, with a Trader Bill’s Team Tournament at Lake Ouachita in February having the largest bag, 29.74 pounds.
The largest fish reported during tournaments in 2023 was a 12.56-pound largemouth caught at Lake Hamilton during a Brooks Marine Tuesday Night Tournament in August. It was one of six fish over 10 pounds to be weighed in 2023.
The average first-place winning weight for all lakes and tournaments in 2023 was 14.39 pounds, slightly lower than 2022 (14.70 pounds).

Risley hopes more tournament trails contribute to the report in 2024, which will improve the data immensely. About 64 percent of the data came from AGFC Black Bass Program staff searching social media and internet sites to dig up results.

“We don’t mind doing the work, but this really is one of the few ways tournament anglers can contribute to the data we collect,” Risley said. “They can’t go out and electrofish or do samples for us, but they can send in their tournament results and be a part of the process. The more data we have from fellow bass anglers, the more pieces we have to complete the puzzle.”

Tournament anglers can send their results to the BBP through an electronic form at www.agfc.com/education/arkansas-tournament-information-program-atip. Most entries should take less than a few minutes to complete.

“Most of the data we need is already being collected, it’s just a matter of turning it in. Add in the number of 5-pound and larger fish caught in the tournament. It’s honestly just a matter of sending in the information.”

Visit www.agfc.com/bbp for more information on the Black Bass Program and the AGFC’s efforts on black bass management in Arkansas.

Area Cemetary Decoration Dates

Featured

Tammy Teague

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12:20 pm

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Antioch Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Barling Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Birdsview Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Buffalo Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Buggy Hill Cemetery – Last Sunday in April
Bull-Norried Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Bush Community – First Sunday in May
Carolan Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Cauthron Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Cedar Grove Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Clark’s Chapel Cemetery – Second Saturday in May
Coleman Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Coop Prairie Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Cross Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Dawson Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Dayton Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Douglas Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Duncan Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Egypt Cemetery- Third Sunday in May
Ferguson Valley – Second Sunday in May
Friendship Cemetery – Fourth Sunday in May
Freedom Cemetery – Fourth Sunday in May
Gentry Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Gilliam Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Greenwood Memorial Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Hartford Memorial Park Cemetery – Mother’s Day weekend
Hawkins Cemetery- Fourth Saturday in May
Hickory Ridge Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Huntington City Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Ione Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Island Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Jenny Lind Cemetery- Third Sunday in May
Jamesfork Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Landmark Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Lamb Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Lavaca City Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Liberty Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Lovelace Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Midland Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Mt. Harmony Cemetery – Second Saturday in May
Mt. Olive Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Mt. View Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
New Providence Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Pearson Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Pine Log Cemetery – Second Saturday in May
Pleasant Grove #2 – Second Sunday in May
Sehorn Cemetery – First Saturday in May
Shiloh Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Slaytonville Cemetery – Third Sunday in May
Square Rock Cemetery – Fourth Sunday in May
Steep Hill Cemetery- First Sunday in May
Stroud Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Trotter Cemetery- Third Sunday in May
Valley View Cemetery – Second Saturday in May
Old Union Cemetery – Second Sunday in May
Union Ridge Cemetery – First Saturday in May
Washburn Cemetery – First Sunday in May
West Hartford Cemetery – Fourth Sunday in May
Lowe Cemetery – First Sunday in May
Weeks Cemetery- Mother’s Day

*If you would like to add a cemetery that may have been inadvertently omitted, or need to submit a correction, please click –HERE –

Arrest Reports 2/18

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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6:58 pm

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Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office:
Jimmy Jay Bridges, Junior of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 25 at 8:41 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with jail time. Bridges was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 2nd offense.

Jose Cardenas of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 21 at 8:51 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 22 at 11:54 a.m. Cardenas was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule VI 4-10oz Felony.

Cassandra Rose Disch of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 11:38 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 25 at 2:18 a.m. Disch was charged with Theft of Property <$1k.

Shelly Denise Johnson-Foote of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 3:13 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Foote was charged with Possession of [Schedule I/II Controlled Substance] <2g-inmate, Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule VI Misdemeanor <4oz, Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor, and Poss Misbranded Drugs.

Andrea Jordan Kopec of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 18 at 2:55 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 18 at 8:17 a.m. Kopec was charged with Domestic Battering Third Degree – Purposely A Misd.

Trinity Adonica McKusker of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 22 at 9:08 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. McKusker was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor, Criminal Trespass premises C misdemeanor, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Dylan Ray Nicholas of Ratcliff was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 12:48 a.m. and released on cash bond February 24 at 5:20 p.m. Nicholas was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Ammie Pearl Richard of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 18 at 12:49 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 18 at 10:42 a.m. Richard was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Curtis Dean Smith of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 10:47 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 25 at 2:34 a.m. Smith was charged with Theft of Property <$1k.

Perla Paola Via of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 23 at 11 p.m. and released on February 25 at 11:11 p.m. Via was charged with Drug Court Sanctions.

Jared Michael Vines of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 10:30 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 25 at 8:36 a.m. Vines was charged with Domestic Battering in the Third Degree – Purposely.

Arresting agency – Barling Police Department:
Haley Deshae Davidson of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 21 at 2:57 p.m. and released on signature bond February 21 at 7:5 p.m. Davidson was charged with Driving on Suspended or Revoked DL – DWI.

Kelly King-Ullrich of Subiaco was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 18 at 2:31 p.m. and transferred to an outside agency on February 21 at 4:15 p.m. Ullrich was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Arresting agency – Arkansas State Police:
Ashley Marie Osborne of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 12:44 a.m. and released on cash bond February 24 at 8:53 a.m. Osbourne was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Robert Lee Deer of Van Buren was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 20 at 2:28 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Deer was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine) and Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Krystal Spryng Jacobs of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 23 at 10:07 p.m. and released on signature bond February 24 at 1:18 a.m. Jacobs was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Tianna Lee Larson of Bouey, MN was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 10:33 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Larson was charged with DWI I – Drugs Misdemeanor.

Jerry Allen Mcclain of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 23 at 8:07 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 24 at 7:59 p.m. Mcclain was charged with Aggravated Assault on a Family or Household Member – Choke.

Felicia Nicole Mitchell of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 22 at 3:46 p.m. and transferred to an outside agency on February 23 at 12:32 p.m. Mitchell was charged with Theft by Receiving >$25k, Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), Contempt of Court–(child support), FTAS, FTRespond Subpoena, FTComply WCO, and Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Haley Leann Sears of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 18 at 6:40 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 18 at 11:24 p.m. Sears was charged with Theft of Property <$1k.

Arresting agency – Mansfield Police Department:
Patrick French of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 20 at 11 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond February 21 at 12:35 a.m. French was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Robert Hiatt of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 24 at 10:28 p.m. and remains at the SCADC with bond. Hiatt was charged with Assault in the 3rd Degree, and Disorderly Conduct – Excessive Noise.

Arresting agency – Arkansas Parole:
Kimberly Diane McMichael of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on February 20 at 10:44 a.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. McMichael was charged with ADC Commitment Hold, Absconding, and Parole Violation.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Leroy Daniels, 78, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 19 at 7:12 p.m. Daniels was charged with failure to appear on class A misdemeanor (FTA).

Kristy Malarkey, 45 of Caulksville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 20 at 2:03 p.m. Malarkey was charged with possession of methamphetamine or cocaine with the purpose to deliver, and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

Richard Round, 64, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 20 at 7 p.m. Round was charged with criminal impersonation 1st degree, perjury, and forgery 1st degree.

Makaven Narcisse, 36 of New Iberia, LA, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 21 at 12 p.m. Narcisse was charged with parole violation and failure to appear on class A misdemeanor FTA.

William Woodall, 40 of Waldron, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 22 at 10:58 a.m. Woodall was charged with failure to appear on class C misdemeanor FTA.

Terry Johnson, 48 of Dardanelle, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 22 at 1:06 p.m. Johnson was charged with contempt of court.

Jeffrey Whitman, 53 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 22 at 7:33 p.m. Whitman was charged with failure to pay.

Amanda Looper, 30 of Subiaco, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 23 at 2:20 p.m. Looper was charged with parole violation.

Dustin Mayer, 39 of Scranton, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on February 24 at 8:21 p.m. Mayer was charged with public intoxication.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Kennith Allen Maul, 23 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 23 at 2:42 p.m. Maul was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Tyler Ray Ward, 23 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 22 at 7L25 p.m. Ward was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Matthew D. Miller, 30 of Mulberry, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 22 at 2:31 p.m. Miller was charged with theft of property <$2,500 >$500, breaking or entering / building or structure, theft $1,000 or less – all others, and failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Bobby Wayne Williams, 47 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 22 at 2:25 p.m. Williams was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor.

Jessie Brison, 44 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 21 at 2:52 p.m. Brison was charged with a warrant.

Jack L Reynolds, 26 of Little Rock, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 21 at 2:32 p.m. Reynolds was charged with failure to appear.

James Joel Atkinson, 66 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 21 at 9:41 a.m. Atkinson was sentenced to days.

John Sparks, 37 of Ratcliff, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 19 at 9:21 p.m. Sparks was charged with domestic battering 3rd degree – purpose of causing serious injury.

Raymond Joseph Hanson, 42 of Hartman, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on February 19 at 9:23 a.m. Hanson was charged with delivery of meth or cocaine GT 10 GM but LT 200 GM.

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

Waldron Teen Dies in Single Vehicle Accident

News

Tammy Teague

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12:51 pm

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Waldron Teen Dies in Single Vehicle Accident

A 19-year-old teen from Waldron was killed in a single vehicle accident on Saturday, February 24 at 2:21 a.m.

According to the Arkansas State Police, Fernando Guerrero was traveling west on Highway 80 in a 2009 Subaru. Guerrero crossed the center line, left the roadway into a ditch and struck a tree.

The ASP stated that the next of kin had been notified.

Obituary: Fernando “Fabi” Guerrero (2004 – 2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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12:27 pm

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Obituary: Fernando “Fabi” Guerrero (2004 – 2024)

Fernando “Fabi” Fabian Guerrero of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Saturday, February 24, 2024 in Waldron, Arkansas. Fabi was born December 15, 2004 in Mount Pleasant, Texas to Fernando and Misty (Sullivan) Guerrero.

Fabi was a people person who loved to give hugs and a good handshake. He was funny and his since of humor was unmatched. Fabi was proud of his muscles, enjoyed fishing, cars and loved eating. His smile would light up a room and he never met a stranger. Fabi was determined no matter his circumstances. His will was strong and he was an overcomer. Fabi enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. The memories made with those close to him will forever be treasured.

Fabi leaves behind to cherish his memory, his mother Misty Guerrero of Waldron, Arkansas and sisters: Gracia, Jasmine and Fernanda. Fabi is also survived by his fiancé Allyson Dye; his maternal grandmother Ora Bell Sullivan and paternal grandparents; Virginia Campos and Antonio Guerrero. Fabi will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends he loved dearly.

Fabi was preceded in death by his father, Fernando Guerrero; brother Jessie Guerrero; and maternal grandfather, Jessie Sullivan.

Fabi’s visitation will be Thursday, February 28, 2024 from 2:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Waldron First Baptist Church with Fabi’s life celebration immediately following at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, February 29th, 2024 at the Waldron First Baptist Church in Waldron, Arkansas with Rev. Ken Overturf officiating. Interment will follow in the Square Rock Cemetery near Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Fabi’s pallbearers will be Bryce Passmore, Lidge Stinson, Ethan Fielding, Logan Fielding, Noah Carnes and Alex Hernandez.

Obituary – Ronnie Rhyne (1958 -2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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12:23 pm

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Ronnie Eugene Rhyne of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with his Lord and Savior, Saturday February 24, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. Ronnie was born February 3, 1958 in Modesto, California to Danny and Linda (Ballard) Rhyne. He was 66 years old.

Ronnie attended Waldron High School and later Tulsa Welding School. He was a talented welder, certified in all fields. He traveled across the United States and internationally for work. He especially enjoyed his time in the Aleutian Islands repairing and working on the fishing boats. Ronnie retired from Arkansas Fabricators Specialist in Van Buren, Arkansas. Ronnie enjoyed a good time, fishing, swimming, motorcycles, his Momma’s cooking, gardening, shooting pool, trading cars and time with family.

Ronnie leaves behind his wife, Marilyn (Ritter) Rhyne of the home; daughters: Riana Rhyne of Barling, Arkansas; Chancey Yandell of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Jodi Perry of Poteau, Oklahoma. Poppa Ron will remain in the hearts of his grandsons: Benjamine Yandell, Parker Chrisman, Bryson Jones and Jake Perry. Ronnie is also survived by his parents, Danny and Linda Rhyne of Greenridge, Arkansas; one sister, Dana Chrisman of Waldron, Arkansas; one brother, Stephen Rhyne; nephews Matt and Jace Chrisman, Bradly Rhyne, Eric, Derek and Dillon Yandell.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his sister Debbie Yandell; paternal grandparents, Ed and Chloe Rhyne; maternal grandparents, Tommy and Grace Ballard and Sam and Lucy Riggs; uncle James Rhyne and aunt Paulette “Polly” (Rhyne) Goble.

Ronnie’s life celebration will be at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Butch Morgan officiating. Interment will follow at the Birdsview Cemetery in Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being intrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Ronnie’s Pallbearers will be Alan Ritter, Bryan Thompson, Jace Chrisman, Derek Yandell, Steve Rhyne and Eric Yandell. Honorary Pallbearers will be the Men of Arkansas Fabricators.

Ronnie’s visitation will be prior to his life celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 27, 20254 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Timepiece: Subiaco Abbey and Monastery

Featured

Tammy Teague

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9:48 pm

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

The morning sun was burning through the mist as I traveled east on highway 22. My guest, a fellow teacher from Idaho, was amazed as the saw the medieval towers and spires poking through the clouds. “A castle in Arkansas,” he asked in amazement? Growing up in the area, it was just part of the landscape, something I passed without notice daily. Indeed, beautiful and inspiring, Subiaco academy and monastery stands as a testament to the faith and hard work of the German population living in the area.

Railroads acquired huge tracts of land as compensation for laying track across America. Much of the land was unpopulated and virtually worthless tracts that lacked development. Recognizing the industrious nature of the German Catholic population, the Little Rock and Fort Smith Railroad Company decided to entice immigration by establishing a church and monastery to build near their line. A masterful plan, not only would they sale land to the immigrants but would establish a community which would require the transportation of goods and people to the outside world for perpetuity.

Working with the Benedictine order of St. Meinrad Abbey in Indiana, the railroad convinced the order to send a delegation to build in the area. In 1877, Father Isidor Hobi was sent to explore the area and he sent back glowing reports about the region. His superior, Father Wolfgang Schlumpf was not quite as impressed with the wild, tangled forest offered them by the railroad when he arrived, nevertheless, construction began and church services were provided for the 30 or so families living in the area.

The monks and settlers cut native stone and timber to construct the first building on site. By 1891, Pope Leo XIII was able to raise the status of the Priory to the rank of abbey. A new monastery was built in 1901 after the first monastery was destroyed by fire. That monastery, even though it also suffered a devastating fire in 1927, still stands in the present location atop a small hill overlooking Subiaco and the surrounding valley.

The industrious monks soon added other building and facilities around the central church. Housing some fifty monks, the monastery now raises cattle, operates a sawmill, keeps a vineyard and brew house, and make and sale their own Monk sauce. Brethren assist and minister to the area churches and many assist in teaching at Subiaco Academy, an all-boys school for high school students located adjacent to the church.

My friend, a devout Catholic, wanted to visit. Setting up a tour was an easy matter and one obviously enjoyed by our guide as much as by my friend. I was somewhat abashed because I had only visited once before, a wedding of a friend. St. Benedicts church, the face of the abbey, is a beautiful cut sandstone building with the soaring towers that my friend first noticed. Inside are soaring ceilings, a bubbling baptistery, and huge pipe organs illuminated by beams of light entering through the stained glass windows. It was also the site of a visit by former President Clinton during the wedding of a friend as well as by other notables from around the country. The museum was of special interest. It contained not only material related to the church, but items shared by the early settlers of the area. The courtyard, a beautiful garden lawn bursting with flowers, is well worth the visit.

Coury house, located on the premises, offers private retreats and meeting places for groups and organizations. If you’re lucky, you might visit on a day the abbey and school are hosting a jazz night, a play, or a performance by the Subiaco Academy band. The surrounding communities contain many old barns and homes of German construction. Just up the road is the Cowie winery with its huge collection of church bells from around the world. The abbey, located about six miles east of Paris, it’s a great place to visit and learn about the influence of German culture on the history of our state.

ASP Seized More Then 3,400 Pounds of Illegal Contraband and Weapons in Recent Traffic Stops

News

Tammy Teague

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9:25 pm

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ASP Seized More Then 3,400 Pounds of Illegal Contraband and Weapons in Recent Traffic Stops

Six recent traffic stops by Arkansas State Police (ASP) resulted in the seizure of 824 pounds of illegal marijuana, 2,638 pounds of illegal marijuana products, and multiple weapons. All six seizures took place on Interstate 40, with three occurring on a single day. And five of six seizures occurred in Crawford County.

ASP TRAFFIC STOP FINDS CAR HAULER TRANSPORTING MORE THAN JUST CARS

On February 14, around 2 p.m., ASP pulled over a tractor-trailer carrying three vehicles at the 1-mile marker Eastbound on Interstate 40 in Crawford County.

During a search of the trailer, Troopers found 18 bags of contraband marijuana, weighing a total of 412 pounds, concealed in trucks being hauled.

Two minor children were also in the tractor-trailer.

More than 400 pounds of illegal marijuana found in vehicles being hauled on I-40

ASP transported the driver, Jezreel Otey, 29, of Little Rock, and passengers Robert Sanders, 33, and Ciara Hewlett, 27, both of North Little Rock, to the Crawford County Jail, where they were charged with Possession of a Scheduled VI Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Minor. Hewlett also had an outstanding Felony Warrant out of Little Rock.

ASP seized all three vehicles along with the tractor-trailer.

The children were released into the custody of the Department of Human Services.

MORE THAN 200 POUNDS OF ILLEGAL MARIJUANA AND LOADED HANDGUN DISCOVERED BY ASP DURING TRAFFIC STOP

At approximately 12:10 p.m. on February 20, 2024, a black GMC pickup truck was pulled over by the ASP on Interstate 40 Eastbound at the 8-mile marker for a traffic violation. The driver told the Trooper he was traveling from Oregon to Florida.

More than 200 pounds of illegal marijuana and loaded gun found on Oregon traveler.

Troopers searched the truck and found nine duffle bags containing 211 pounds of illegal marijuana in 190 vacuum-sealed bags. Troopers also discovered a loaded 357 Magnum revolver in a fanny pack on the passenger side of the vehicle, along with $3,978.

ASP transported the driver, Thomas Elliott, 51, of Deerfield Beach, FL, to the Crawford County Jail. Elliott is facing multiple charges, including Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and a Firearm.

ASP FINDS ILLEGAL MARIJUANA AND HANDGUN DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN CRAWFORD COUNTY

On February 20, 2024, ASP stopped a white Chevrolet Suburban traveling Eastbound on Interstate 40 at the 5-mile marker in Crawford County.

Upon searching the SUV, Troopers discovered three large boxes containing 50 pounds of illegal marijuana in the rear cargo area. Additionally, a 9mm Glock handgun was found in the center console.

ASP transported the driver, Wynton Foy, 33, of Snellville, GA, and the passenger, De’Ja Johnson, 28, of Atlanta, GA, to the Crawford County Detention Center, where they were charged with Possession with Purpose to Deliver Controlled Substance, Possession of Felony Drug Paraphernalia, and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and a Firearm.

ASP SEIZED MORE THAN A TON OF THC VAPES AND 21 POUNDS OF ILLEGAL MARIJUANA

On February 22, 2024, at approximately 10:30 a.m., at the 2-mile marker Eastbound on Interstate 40, ASP pulled over a white Silverado pickup truck towing an enclosed trailer due to a traffic violation.

Troopers searched the trailer and found 2,628 pounds of illegal marijuana vapes and 21 pounds of contraband marijuana.

Troopers arrested Janet Arreola, 29, and Jose Escobedo, 35, both of Cumming, Georgia, and transported them to the Crawford County Detention Center. Both were charged with Trafficking Controlled Substances and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor.

Troopers seized 2,628 pounds of illegal marijuana vapes during traffic stop.

ASP FINDS MORE THAN 100 POUNDS OF ILLEGAL MARIJUANA DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN LONOKE COUNTY

On February 20, 2024, ASP stopped a black 2023 Chevrolet Equinox near the 173-mile marker on Interstate 40 Eastbound in Lonoke County for a traffic violation.

Upon searching the vehicle, the Trooper discovered a shrink-wrapped package containing 119 bundles of illegal marijuana weighing a total of 126 pounds.

Troopers transported driver Zang Xiong, 34, of Holmen, Wisconsin, to the Lonoke County Detention Center, where he was charged with Felony Possession of a Scheduled VI Controlled Substance with the Purpose to Deliver. Xiong told the police he was traveling to Mississippi from Oklahoma.

FOURTEEN POUNDS OF ILLEGAL CONTRABAND DISCOVERED DURING TRAFFIC STOP ON INTERSTATE 40

On February 22, 2024, at approximately 4:04 p.m., ASP stopped a gold Chevrolet Malibu near the 2-mile marker Eastbound on Interstate 40 in Crawford County.

Troopers searched the trunk of the vehicle and located approximately four pounds of illegal marijuana and 10 pounds of illegal marijuana products. Troopers seized the contraband and arrested the driver, Chip Ervin, 45, of Mississippi.

Troopers transported Ervin to the Crawford County Jail, where he was charged with multiple charges, including Possession with Intent and Deliver Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

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RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK