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Bringing Light to the Community: Tegan Stimac, 15, Receives Prestigious Gold Medal President’s Volunteer Service Award

Tammy Teague
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Bringing Light to the Community: Tegan Stimac, 15, Receives Prestigious Gold Medal President’s Volunteer Service Award

Greenwood, October 2023— In a heartfelt recognition of her unwavering commitment to community service, Tegan Stimac, a 15-year-old Junior at Greenwood High School, has been awarded the prestigious Gold Medal President’s Volunteer Service Award for accumulating over 100 hours of volunteer work. Tegan’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of others has left an indelible mark on the Greenwood community, as she selflessly lent her time and energy to various local organizations, including the White Bluff Rye Hill Fire Department, Miracle League Baseball, and Harvest Time, among others.

One of Tegan’s significant volunteer contributions was with the White Bluff Rye Hill Fire Department. She has been an active member, dedicating numerous hours to support the firefighters and first responders in their mission to keep the community safe. Her role involved a variety of tasks, from assisting in equipment maintenance to participating in the annual “Santa Visits” throughout the White Bluff community. Tegan’s dedication to the fire department reflects her deep respect for the brave individuals who risk their lives to protect others.

Tegan’s involvement with the Miracle League Baseball program exemplifies her commitment to inclusivity and compassion. She spent Saturdays assisting young athletes with disabilities, ensuring they had the opportunity to participate in the joy of playing baseball. Her positive attitude and unwavering support have made a lasting impact on the players and their families.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a testament to her outstanding commitment and dedication to serving others. Along with a gold medal, she was presented with a certificate and congratulatory letter signed by the President of the United States. Her achievement serves as a reminder of the power of youth to effect meaningful change in their communities.

Tegan’s parents, Tony and Taylor Stimac, expressed their pride and gratitude for their daughter’s efforts. “Tegan has always been compassionate and caring, and we couldn’t be prouder of the young woman she has become,” said Taylor Stimac. “We hope her journey will inspire others to become active participants in their communities.”

Tegan Stimac’s story is a reminder that acts of kindness and selflessness can create a ripple effect of positive change, and her dedication to volunteering is sure to continue making a difference in the lives of those she serves for years to come.

Common Debris Found in Your Gutters and How To Remove It

Resident News Network
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Common Debris Found in Your Gutters and How To Remove It

Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and mold growth, among other issues. Debris in the gutters can threaten your home’s structural integrity, so knowing how to clean them decreases the stressors of home care. Use this guide to learn about common gutter debris and handy tips for removing it.

Leaves and Twigs

Leaves and twigs can fall on your roof at any time of year, though they tend to accumulate during the fall season when trees shed their foliage. You can remove leaves and twigs with a gutter scoop or by hand while wearing gloves. Collect the debris in a bucket or bag to dispose of it easily. Consider installing gutter guards or using a leaf blower to clear debris from the gutters periodically.

Snow and Ice

Surprisingly, snow and ice are gutter debris. Cold conditions can cause significant issues for your roof and gutters. Snow can accumulate, melt, and freeze in the gutters, leading to ice dams. These dams prevent water from flowing freely through the gutters, causing leaks and water damage to your home.

Remove snow and ice with a roof rake or a heated cable designed for gutters. Prevent snow from accumulating by installing heated gutter guards to melt the flurries and prevent the formation of ice dams.

Moss and Algae

Moss and algae growth is common in damp and shaded areas around your home. They cause gutters to rust and decay over time due to moisture retention. They also encourage mold growth and facilitate water damage. You can remove this debris from your gutters with a specialized cleaning brush or a scraper. Consider using commercial moss and algae removal products to expedite the cleaning process.

Taking steps to prevent the regrowth of moss and algae ensures your roof stays in good condition. Ventilate the roof to mitigate water buildup and prevent water damage in your attic that could ruin your roof, especially the gutters.

Roofing Material Granules

Asphalt shingles lose their protective granules over time. These granules can accumulate in the gutters and prevent them from draining. Damaged shingles are a common roof issue you shouldn’t ignore, and improper draining can affect other parts of the roof.

You can remove asphalt granules with a gutter scoop or a wet/dry vacuum with a gutter cleaning attachment. Regularly inspecting your roof and gutters can help you identify and address granule buildup before it worsens.

Numerous types of debris accumulate in gutters, and it’s essential to remove them before they can cause problems. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your gutters prevents blockages and potentially expensive damage to your home. Maintain your gutters to safeguard your home and family!

Obituary – Homer Stinson (1944-2023) 

Tammy Teague
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Obituary – Homer Stinson (1944-2023) 

Homer Stinson of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Friday, September 29, 2023 in Waldron Nursing Home surrounded by loved ones. Homer was born July 10, 1944 to Luke and Meddie Sue (Owens) Stinson in Forrester, Arkansas.

Homer was married for 59 years to the love of his life, Vickie Sue Gibson. Homer retired from Tyson as a chicken catcher after many years of service. Homer loved his family and really enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Homer leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife Vickie of the home, his children: Shawn Stinson and girlfriend Steaphanie Hudson of Waldron, Arkansas, Toshia Mullinax and husband Harley of Waldron, Arkansas, Chad Stinson and wife Amber of Waldron, Arkansas, Keria Stinson of the home, and Christie Baldridge and husband Tim of Kentucky. Papa will forever remain in the hearts of his grandchildren: Tyler Aydelott and wife Jasmine of Mulberry, Arkansas, Jesse Stinson and wife Shelbie of Waldron, Arkansas and Kyla Stinson of Russellville, Arkansas as well as sever great grandchildre: Lukus, Alsie, Daxon, Vicky, Libby and Kaurmice.

Homer was preceded in death by his parents, Luke and Meddie, and two brothers: Harold Stinson and J.W. Stinson.

A celebration of life will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 6, 2023 at the Cedar Creek Cemetery with Rev. Konnor McKay officiating. Arrangements and cremation are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Waldron, Arkansas.

Fusarium Wilt Confirmed in Commercial Arkansas Blackberries, Growers Should be on the Lookout

Tammy Teague
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Fusarium Wilt Confirmed in Commercial Arkansas Blackberries, Growers Should be on the Lookout

By Sarah Cato
U of A System Division of Agriculture 

Fusarium wilt, a soil-dwelling fungal disease known to wipe out susceptible crops in affected areas, has been confirmed for the first time on a commercial blackberry operation in Arkansas.  

Blackberries are a multi-million-dollar market in the United States. According to the Agricultural Marketing Resource Center, U.S. blackberry production was valued at $31.1 million in 2017. 

Most Arkansas producers are familiar with Fusarium wilt in watermelons, tomatoes and other fruit and vegetable crops. Until recently, Fusarium wilt had only been confirmed in commercial blackberry varieties in California, North Carolina and Mexico. But where these new cases of Fusarium wilt in Arkansas originated isn’t known.  

“It’s unclear whether these new cases are due to new, more susceptible cultivars being infected by a pathogen that was already present, or introduction of the pathogen somewhere in the plant supply chain,” said Aaron Cato, extension horticulture integrated pest management specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “What we do know is that there is likely a large amount of variation in susceptibility to this disease by cultivar.”  

Cato said the cultivar ‘Twilight’ is known to be very susceptible and is where the disease was first observed in many areas including Arkansas. Fusarium wilt has also been observed on other commonly grown varieties such as ‘Ouachita’ while cultivars such as ‘Navaho’ appear to be resistant to some degree.

Should Arkansas growers be worried? 

Cato recommends that all Arkansas blackberry growers should scout their plants to catch a possible infection early to prevent spread.  

“It’s hard to know exactly what we’re dealing with right now, but the short answer is that all growers should be on the lookout,” Cato said. “When plants get this disease they will die. There is an inherent risk to not finding this disease early, as farmers in North Carolina have documented the capacity of the disease to spread across a farm. What we know for sure is that we found it in the state and all growers need to be looking for it.”  

What to look for  

Although Fusarium wilt in blackberry is not very well understood yet, there are some key diagnostics that make it relatively easy to identify.  

“Blackberry plants that have this disease will exhibit wilting accompanied by the appearance of longitudinal black streaks on canes, that will begin only on one side of the cane,” Cato said. “Black streaks will generally originate from the base of canes or near the ground and grow upward. These canes will wilt rapidly and leaves will die and often remain attached to the plant.”  

Cato also said to watch for the presence of spores as masses present on the surface of the cane in whitish-pink or tan-colored streaks on necrotic areas.  

What to do after finding Fusarium wilt 

Because there is no remediation for soil near infected plants, it is important that growers avoid re-planting blackberries in affected areas. Additionally, Cato recommends removing plants and avoiding cross-contamination with other, nearby plantings. 

“In fields where Fusarium shows up, it’s likely that you need to do more than just remove the infected plants,” Cato said. “The current assumption is that plants of a similar cultivar nearby are likely to be infected, but not all growers are going to be willing to get rid of these plants. For small-scale growers, it is likely worth the time to remove infected plants as soon as possible and try to be as sterile as possible when working from plant to plant.” 

For larger growers, Cato said it may be best for growers to cut their losses and remove the entire field. 

“We’re still waiting to see what the spread is like here in Arkansas, but growers in North Carolina have really preached isolation and cutting your losses on infected fields,” Cato said. “Ultimately, if you think you have found Fusarium wilt on your farm you need to contact your county agent and send in a sample to the Plant Health Clinic.” 

Preventative measures 

Although this disease is not well understood in blackberry yet, there are some best management practices to help avoid infection.  

“First, growers should be sure to avoid introduction of the pathogen by only buying disease-free, tissue-cultured plants from reputable sources,” Cato said. “It’s a good idea to always rely on these reputable sources of plants to avoid the many diseases that could possibly be moved with blackberry plant material.” 

Cato also recommends practicing good sanitation by removing nearby wild blackberries, avoiding handling plants when wet, clean any equipment used to work the soil or make beds prior to moving to new fields, and be sure to handle, prune or harvest fields that are not known to have issues before going into any infected or suspected Fusarium infected plantings.  

Read more about Fusarium wilt in Arkansas blackberries, and what to do with suspected infected plants in Cato’s blog post.  

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on Twitter 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 Twitter at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter 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. 

Arrest Reports 9/24

Tammy Teague
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Arrest Reports 9/24

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office:
James Stephen Alderman of Boles was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 25 at 6:22 p.m. and released on September 28 at 12:57 p.m. Alderman was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), Contempt-Failure to Comply w/ Court A Misd., petition to revoke – misd., and petition to revoke – felony.

Kenneth Wayne Basinger of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 24 at 1:31 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 25 at 4:09 p.m. Basinger was charged with Petition to show cause, Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule I/II Felony <2g, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine.

Regina Dawn Daws of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 29 at 10:40 a.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Daws was charged with Drug Court Sanctions.

Kamron Michael Hurts of Ratcliff was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 25 at 1:05 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 25 at 1:34 p.m. Hurts was charged with Possession of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] with the Purpose to Deliver >4oz., Possession of [Schedule I/II Controlled Substance] with the Purpose to Deliver >2g., Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule I/II Felony <2g., Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, and Furnishing a Prohibited Article-Correctional Facility.

Dalton Jerome Johnson of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 25 at 1:06 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 25 at 5:06 p.m. Johnson was charged with Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, Possession of [Schedule I/II Controlled Substance] with the Purpose to Deliver >2g., and Possession of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] with the Purpose to Deliver >4oz.

Kristy Anne Krigbaum of Ratcliff was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 28 at 12:12 a.m. and released on cash bond September 30 at 3:11 p.m. Krigbaum was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Lana Kaye Miller of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 30 at 11:21 p.m. and released on cash bond October 1 at 12:55 a.m. Miller was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Nicholas Andrew Morgan of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 30 at 2:51 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 30 at 8:41 a.m. Morgan was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Dontae Kiwan Norwood of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 24 at 11:04 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 25 at 9:33 p.m. Norwood was charged with two counts of Breaking or Entering- – Building, Structure or Vehicle, and heft of Property >$25k.

Jess Dee Phillips of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 28 at 7:44 p.m. and released on signature bond September 28 at 11:04 p.m. Phillips was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Central City MVFD
Austin Lee Chastain of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 25 at 2:38 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 25 at 8:38 p.m. Chastain was charged with Theft by Receiving.

Arkansas State Police – Troop H:
Jeremy Steven Long of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 28 at 7:02 p.m. and released on signature bond September 29 at 12:36 a.m. Long was charged with Possession of open container.

Jacob Brad-lee Schmidt of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 25 at 1:12 p.m. and released on signature bond September 25 at 5:26 p.m. Schmidt was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Kayci Danielle Leflore-Miller of Ozark was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 28 at 3:59 p.m. and released on signature bond September 28 at 8:20 p.m. Miller was charged with two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Bobby Don Walker of Ozark was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 27 at 10:36 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Walker was charged with Fugitive from Justice Out of State.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Tammy Lynn Parker of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 30 at 12:57 p.m. and released on signature bond September 30 at 9:10 p.m. Parker was charged with Criminal Trespass – Occupiable Structure, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Robert Wesley Quinn of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 24 at 1:13 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond September 24 at 8:48 p.m. Quinn was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Misdemeanor, Refusal To Submit To Arrest Misdemeanor, and disorderly Conduct – Obstructs Traffic.

Gregory Shawn Stinson of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center September 30 at 8:35 p.m. and remains at the SCADC on $2,500 legally sufficient bond. Stinson was charged with Battery in the Second Degree – Health Professional.

Dearl Edward Suttles of Magazine was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 30 at 11:08 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Suttles was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, and Assist Outside Agency-Misd.

Arresting agency – Arkansas Game and Fish:
Jeremy Shane Sanders of Magazine was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 30 at 11:30 p.m. and released on signature bond October 1 at 1:04 a.m. Sanders was charged with Fishing Without A License – Nonresident, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Bonanza Police Department:
Melissa Sue Spencer of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on September 27 at 7:59 p.m. and released on signature bond September 27 at 10:54 p.m. Spencer was charged with Disorderly Conduct – Excessive Noise.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Adam Lee Swafford, 50 of Magazine, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 30 at 8:50 p.m. Swafford was charged with failure to pay child support.

Dennis Charles James, 32 of Magazine, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 30 at 12:21 p.m. James was charged with possession of schedule I or II LT 2g., possession of drug paraphernalia, and public intoxication.

Jim Adron Ridenhour, 45 of Mountainburg, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 28 at 8:13 a.m. Ridenhour was charged with sentenced to days.

Randall Martin Hice, 50 of Ratcliff, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 27 at 10:25 a.m. Hice was charged with two counts of computer child pornography.

Mathew Harold McLeroy, 61 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 25 at 10:01 p.m. McLeroy was charged with assault-3rd degree /creates apprehension of imminent injury, harassment, criminal trespass in or on a vehicle or structure/premises.

Clayton Jack Gerrard, 18 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 25 at 8:23 p.m. Gerrard was charged with possession of schedule IV LT 27 gm., driving while intoxicated – DWI 1st drugs, and careless and prohibited driving.

Christina Marie Bauer, 40 of Atkins, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on September 25 at 4:23 p.m. Bauer was charged with failure to appear, and failure to comply with conditions or pre-trail release.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Barry Cook, 61 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on September 24 at 11:56 a.m. Cook was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kasandra Rogers, 26 of Muskogee, OK, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on September 24 at 12:03 p.m. Rogers was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

William Phillips, 43 of Charleston, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on September 30 at 3:13 p.m. Phillips was charged with failure to appear.

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


Preventing the Worst Accidents in Your Restaurant

Resident News Network
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Preventing the Worst Accidents in Your Restaurant

As a restaurant owner or manager, you must prioritize safety and health in your establishment. Injuries and accidents can happen, but you must minimize or prevent them as much as possible.

Recognizing and preventing the worst accidents in your restaurant is paramount. Accidents can cause harm to your employees and customers and result in legal and financial consequences, so you want to avoid them as much as possible.

Burns and Scalds

Burns and scalds are common accidents in the kitchen due to the use of hot surfaces, equipment, and liquids. All employees should know how to handle and use every piece of kitchen equipment, specifically ones with hot surfaces and liquids. Provide protective gear (like gloves or mitts) when necessary and keep a fully stocked first aid kit for emergencies.

Slips and Falls

Slippery floors, cluttered areas, and uneven surfaces can cause slips and falls in a restaurant. Employees should never hesitate to clean spills because these accidents can result in serious injuries. Ensure your floors are always dry, clean, and slip-resistant to prevent this. Place warning signs in areas that may be slippery, and use anti-slip mats in heavily trafficked areas.

Cuts and Scrapes

Sharp knives, broken glassware, and other sharp objects in the kitchen can cause cuts and scrapes. Workers should properly handle protective equipment when using sharp cutting tools. Discard broken glassware immediately and always monitor kitchen equipment for any signs of wear and tear. Always keep a fully stocked first aid kit on hand.

Choking Hazards

Unfortunately, choking hazards come with the territory when you own a restaurant. Any improperly prepared, served, or consumed food can be dangerous. You should also teach staff what to do in case a customer or employee starts choking.

Electrical Accidents

The most lethal type of accident that could happen at a restaurant is of the electric variety. Electrical accidents can happen because of outdated or faulty equipment. Regularly inspect and maintain all electrical equipment to guarantee one’s safety. Provide proper safety (like gloves or goggles) when necessary and educate employees on how to recognize and handle electrical accidents. Always keep a fully stocked first aid kit and a fire extinguisher.

Preventing the worst accidents in your restaurant is crucial when running a business. Create a culture of safety in your establishment by prioritizing training, monitoring safety hazards, and inspecting and maintaining equipment.

Remember, preventing accidents ensures the well-being of your employees and customers and protects your business from legal and financial consequences. You can keep everyone in your restaurant safe by taking the necessary precautions.

Lady Eagles Impressive in 3-0 Sweep of Little Rock Episcopal Collegiate

Jim Best
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Lady Eagles Impressive in 3-0 Sweep of Little Rock Episcopal Collegiate

PARIS- To borrow a phrase from Razorbacks baseball head coach Dave Van Horn, it was “all gas, no brakes” for the Paris Lady Eagles on Monday night.

This time, it was the Little Rock Episcopal Collegiate Lady Wildcats visiting Paris Gymnasium. And in short time, it was Paris playing one of their more impressive matches of the regular season, defeating Episcopal by the set score of 3-0.

But perhaps more impressive than the Eagles’ intensity was the clean match they played on Monday night. Paris gave up no more than 11 points in any of the three sets along their way to a dominate non-conference win.

Episcopal plays in the 3A Central conference, and according to Scorebook Live, the Lady Wildcats unofficially sit in third place in the conference and are battling with Central Arkansas Christian (CAC) for the conference’s second seed. Their conference is led by Little Rock Baptist Prep who also defeated Episcopal earlier in the season by a 3-0 set score.

In addition to the win being a quality non-conference win for the Lady Eagles, the game provided a bit of a preview of what could be in store for Paris in the state playoffs.

The first three rounds of the 3A state playoffs will be hosted by Valley Springs High School starting October 24. Paris is locked in a battle for the second seed in the 3A West. Tomorow night, Paris will host Elkins who sits in third place and who will be traveling to Paris to fight for the second seed. Paris wants to finish with the second seed going into the district tournament. In doing so, the Lady Eagles will have a bye to the tournament semifinals and will guarantee them a berth in the state tournament by finishing no worse than fourth in the district tournament. A semifinal win in the district tournament gives them a shot at the district championship and a guarantee of no worse than a two seed in the next week’s state tournament.

Looking down the line at the state playoff brackets, Paris could play in one of three opening round games:

As a one seed (would have to win the district tournament):

October 24: 12 p.m. vs. the fourth seed from the Northeast

As a two seed (would have to win their semifinal game in the district tournament):

October 24: 6 p.m. vs. third seed from the Northeast

As a three seed (would have to win the district tournament consolation game (if played):

October 24: 2 p.m. vs. second seed from the Northeast

Aa a four seed (would have to lose both their semifinal and the consolation games of the district tournament):

October 24, 4 p.m. vs. the one seed from the Northeast.

If Paris wins the second seed and plays at 6 p.m. on October 24, should the Eagles win, more than likely, Little Rock Baptist Prep will await Paris in the second round.

So, a lot can happen between now and October 24. Tonight’s dominate win against the central’s third place team is a good sign for Paris as they go down the stretch of the regular season. The Lady Eagles will look to continue to build momentum that they hope will carry over to the post season.

RNN Sports will be in Paris on Tuesday night to bring you coverage of the all-important conference match with the Elkins Lady Elks.

Watch for photos from tonight’s game on Facebook at Paris Eagles Sports on Wednesday.

Hartford Hosts Ribbon Cutting for McClung Music Park

Tammy Teague
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Hartford Hosts Ribbon Cutting for McClung Music Park

It was beautiful weather on Saturday, September 30, perfect for a day in the park. At 2 p.m. the City of Hartford hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at McClung Music Park.

The project has been in the works since the city received a $100,000 fun park grant in December 2022. The grant funded the installation of play equipment, sunshade, interactive musical play structures, and site amenities.

Western Arkansas Planning and Development’s Tracee McKenna was present for the ribbon cutting ceremony and the day’s festivities, which included food, a raffle, and firetruck tours. McKenna worked closely with current Recorder/Treasurer Danielle Woodard, throughout the grant process.

Mayor Hartsfield swears in “Mayor for the Day,” Kyla Heck
Kyla Heck and Danielle Woodward

Hartford Mayor Richard Hartsfield swore in a “Mayor for the Day,” Kyla Heck. Heck assisted Woodard in the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

McClung Music Park is located at the old Hartford Elementary School building on West Main and Maple Street.

John Alexander McClung
McClung joined the army during World War I where he was awarded the Purple Heart during action in France. After his honorable discharge from the army, he moved to Hartford and attended the Hartford Music Institute. He then became an instructor and later purchased the Hartford Music Company & Institute. He traveled all over the United States with his singing schools and the Hartford Quartet of which he was a member. He wrote over 300 published songs, his most noteworthy being “Standing Outside” and “Just A Rose Will Do.” He published church song books that are still in use today, his last being “Living Faith” copyrighted in 1942. In April 1992 he was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in gospel music.

Is compost always feasible? A look at the benefits and risks

Tammy Teague
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Is compost always feasible? A look at the benefits and risks

By Sarah Cato
U of A System Division of Agriculture

Compost has a reputation for nourishing soils, but large- and small-scale growers should consider its benefits and risks before solely depending on it for key nutrients.

Compost is a great tool for those wishing to recycle materials and reduce waste, among its other benefits.

“Compost has a lot of advantages,” said Matt Bertucci, assistant professor of horticulture for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “It stimulates soil biological activity by introducing beneficial soil microbes, adds soil organic matter and serves as a slow-release source for nutrients at low levels.”

However, those low levels of nutrients mean compost cannot be depended on as a replacement for much-needed fertilizer.

“Compost can rarely be used as a sole source of nutrients without putting on literal tons of that material, or supplementing it with something else,” Bertucci said. “Handling the quantities needed can be difficult and requires different types of equipment. You need some sort of vessel to distribute the material across your site.”

Bertucci also said growers should be wary of the potential presence of noxious weed seeds or even herbicides in compost.

“This is a big red light, flashing ‘warning’ about the risks of the compost source,” he said. “Many of our county agents have seen instances of compost material that had vegetation that had previously been treated with herbicides.”

Understanding the supply chain of a chosen compost is important. Compost that includes material from pasture and hay fields, commercial turf and lawns, and commercial vegetables and fruits should be used cautiously. These production systems have registered chemicals that could make compost a hazard. Those concerned about herbicide presence in their compost can run a bioassay, a test which involves planting seeds in the compost and monitoring them for affect from potential herbicide contaminants.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that compost does offer several benefits when used appropriately.

“The compost process offers us a lot of great things,” Bertucci said. “But it is best used in small-scale operations with caution and not as a sole source of much-needed nutrients.”

Those interested can have their compost nutrient levels tested by contacting their local county agent.

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on Twitter 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 Twitter at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter 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.

Home Improvement Projects You Should Never Do Alone

Resident News Network
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Home Improvement Projects You Should Never Do Alone

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, keeping your tools and belt in the garage may be difficult when the opportunity for an upgrade arises. Some projects are doable with minimal complications or risks. Meanwhile, there are certain home improvement projects you should never do alone because leaving it to the pros is the most sensible action; find out which tasks you should avoid tackling yourself here.

Tree and Branch Removal

As you trim your shrubbery, you may be motivated to trim those pesky tree branches that overshadow your garden or reach too close to powerlines. After all, maybe you think trimming trees isn’t any different from maintaining your hedges.

Well, you’d be wrong—very, very wrong.

You can take care of an errant branch here or there if it’s not too high. However, cutting down massive trunks at uncomfortable heights requires professional help. The last thing you want to do is fall and hurt yourself or have a branch fall on something—or someone—below.

Roofing Issues

After a thunderstorm brings heavy rain or the snow begins to melt, you might realize the roof has a small leak, allowing water into the house. Since roofing problems cost a chunk of change, you may want to take life by the horns and do this task yourself.

But we highly advise that you don’t.

You might have all the tools to give it a go, but you won’t do it as proficiently as the experts. The problem may be larger than a few loose shingles; professional roofers can diagnose any issues better than your untrained eye. A roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so don’t cut any corners.

Window Replacements

When your energy bill skyrockets, you may consider getting replacement windows. As with roofing jobs, the initial cost of window replacements is higher. Because of the cost, some people might try doing the job themselves when they notice the signs that they need a window replacement.

In a perfect world, you would be an expert window installer, ensuring sealed windows have no leaks letting in or pushing out air. Unfortunately, that perfect world doesn’t exist, and the more likely outcome will be a more noticeable draft than ever before.

A professional window installer knows this task like the back of their hand. They will be able to install your new windows flawlessly and quickly.

Plumbing Concerns

If Super Mario Brothers proved anything, it’s that plumbing systems are complicated. You’re on a pipe one minute, and the next, you enter an underground lair. While you’re not taking on a Koopa Troopa in the sewers, you may encounter another set of problems when you try fixing your pipes yourself.

Plumbing systems are incredibly intricate, so don’t put your house at risk by trying to repair your pipes solo. Professional plumbers have seen and handled everything under the sun—or in this case, in your basement or crawlspace.

Painting the Home’s Exterior

After painting your kitchen or bedroom, you might think you could use your newfound talent to paint your home’s exterior. However, painting a room inside your home is nothing compared to what you’d have to do on the exterior.

You’d need plenty of prep time, tools, and general knowledge to paint your home’s siding and exterior. Instead, hire experienced painters to get the job done.

Recognizing which home improvement projects you should never do alone should put a full stop to attempting these challenging tasks. While DIYs have their place in any home, certain tasks are better left to the professionals.

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