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Waldron School Board Meets

Tammy Teague
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Waldron School Board Meets

The regular monthly meeting of the Waldron School Board was held in the Central Office Building Monday, August 14, 2023; at 6:30 p.m. Board members present were Clay Woodall, Angela Hunsucker, Mac Davis, Konnor McKay and Stan Cottrell. Others present were Superintendent Daniel Fielding, Misty Owens, Ryan Walker, Kristi Sigman, Darla Jeffery, Josh Atchley, Tonya Cluck, Kim Solomon, Toni Dozier, Cheyenne Smith, Randi Hickman, Zack Taylor and Chris Lipham.

President Woodall called the meeting to order at 6:31p.m.

Mr. Woodall welcomed everyone.

Mr. Konnor McKay began the meeting with a word of prayer.

Mrs. Hunsucker led the Pledge of Allegiance.

A motion was made by Mac Davis and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to add Item D) Discuss the Rewording of the Deed with The City of Waldron on the Sawyer Wright Field, to New Business. Motion carried 5:0.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Mac Davis to approve

the Consent Agenda items: A) Approval of the July 10th Minutes; B) Approve Financial Reports and Expenditures; C) Approve Purchase Order to O’Reilly Auto Parts; D) Approve Purchase Order for MHC Kenworth; E) Approve Purchase Orders for BSN Sports; F) Approve Purchase Order for Pearson Virtual Schools; G) Approve Milk Bid for Food Service; H) Approve Bread Bid for Food Service. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Stan Cottrell to approve the Petitions for Transfer of Student (3). Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Konnor McKay to approve the Request for Proposal received by Community National Bank and move the operating account. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Mac Davis and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve the Elementary, Middle and High School Handbook changes. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve for Mr. Fielding to explore the rewording of the Deed with The City of Waldron on the Sawyer Wright Field. Motion carried 5:0.

Each of the principals reported that the first day of school went great! Meet the Teacher Night was a success. Mr. Walker also commented that there are 87 students enrolled for Pre-K, and he is still enrolling students in the on-line virtual academy at this time. Mrs. Jeffery informed the board that there are 104 Kindergarteners enrolled as of now. She also reported that

the 3rd and 4th graders last year improved in all areas except for 2 on their testing last year. Mr. Taylor announced that Middle School improved in 9 of the 16 areas of the testing, his building grew by 9% in Exceeding and Ready categories. Mrs. Solomon also commented on the growth in testing scores, with an increase in scores in all 8 areas, 22% overall increase in Science, 16% in Math, 14% in English and 15% in Reading! Great things are happening all around!

Assistant Superintendent Mr. Lipham reminded the board about the AAA Volleyball Benefit Game at Pottsville on Thursday and Scrimmage Football Game on Friday against Dequeen. He reported that the Transportation Department is still in need of substitute bus drivers. Superintendent Daniel Fielding expressed how proud he is of the teachers and students over the improvement on the test scores.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Mac Davis to accept the resignation of Jessica Neely as Middle School Special Education Teacher as of July 27, 2023. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Mac Davis and seconded by Stan Cottrell to accept the resignation of Tammy Forrest as Elementary Paraprofessional as of July 31, 2023. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Mac Davis to transfer Elizabeth Gonzalez to Middle School Special Education Teacher, pending the receiving of a provisional license, effective July 27, 2023. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Mac Davis and seconded by Stan Cottrell to hire Kevin Hillier as Elementary Paraprofessional and Leticia Smith as Middle School Special Education Paraprofessional effective August 7, 2023. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Angela Hunsucker and seconded by Konnor McKay to hire Tracie Adams as a Level 2 Bus Driver with 2 years’ experience effective August 10, 2023. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Mac Davis and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to hire Kyra Taylor as High School Special Education Paraprofessional, pending she receives necessary credentials, effective August 15, 2023. Motion carried 5-0.

A motion was made by Stan Cottrell and seconded by Konnor McKay to adjourn. Motion carried 5-0.

Meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m.

Arrest Reports 8/6

Tammy Teague
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Arrest Reports 8/6

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s office:
Sherry Lea Adams of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 11 at 9:56 p.m. and released on August 14 at 9:37 p.m. Adams was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Driving While Intoxicated 2nd offense.

Cathy DeAnne Barnhill Beach of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 11:01 a.m. and released on cash bond August 9 at 1:11 p.m. Beach was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Christopher Ray Beaty of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 7 at 8:50 p.m. and remains at the SCADC. Beaty was charged with Surrender Off Bond, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Andrea Rayne Brown of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 8:39 p.m. and released on signature bond August 9 at 10:58 p.m. Brown was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Dakota Cheyenne Bunch of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 10 at 7:57 a.m. and released on August 12 at 8:18 a.m. Bunch was charged with Domestic Battering Third Degree – Purposely a misd.

Justin Ray Carroll of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 7 at 10:37 p.m. and released on cash bond August 7 at 11:46 p.m. Carroll was charged with petition to revoke – misd.

Ruben Allen Dampier, Junior of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 2:58 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 9 at 9:47 a.m. Dampier was charged with Delivery of [Schedule VI Controlled Substance] >14g, and Delivery of Methamphetamine or Cocaine >2g.

Amanda Loraine Gregory of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 6 at 10:33 a.m. and released on cash bond August 7 at 11:32 p.m. Gregory was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Tyler John Light of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 11 at 8:26 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 11 at 9:23 p.m. Light was charged with Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree.

Staci Leann Neu of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 10 at 11:59 a.m. and remains at the SCADC as a Arkansas Department of Corrections hold.

Jeffrey Luke Ridenhour of Mansfield was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 11 at 12:45 p.m. and released on signature bond August 14 at 4:50 p.m. Ridenhour was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor.

David Nathanael Sage of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 11 at 8:21 p.m. and released on August 13 at 9:58 p.m. Sage was charged with Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked.

Rebekah Lynn White of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center August 11 at 9:31 a.m. and released on signature bond August 11 at 2:43 p.m. White was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Morgan Christine Bonfiglio of Hot Springs was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 6 at 6:31 p.m. and released on signature bond August 6 at 10:42 p.m. Bonfiglio was charged with Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked.

Hunter Luke Brandenburg of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 8 at 11:07 p.m. and released to an outside agency on August 9 at 4:52 a.m. Brandenburg was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony.

Amanda Sue Yancey of Ft. Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 4:28 p.m. and released on signature bond August 14 at 5:35 p.m. Yancey was charged with Failure to Appear – Class A Misdemeanor.

Brandon Tyler Haneline of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 11 at 8:19 p.m. and released on bond August 14 at 11:01 p.m. Haneline was charged with Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony, and two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine.

Ryan Alexander Martinez of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 8:25 a.m. and transferred to an outside agency on August 9 at 1:22 p.m. Martinez was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Misd., and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine.

Carl Wayne Spearman Jr. of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 4:33 p.m. and remains at the SCADC. Spearman was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Caitlyn Gilbreth of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 12 at 9:18 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 12 at 1:06 p.m. Gilbreth was charged with six counts of Theft of Property <$1k.

Arresting agency – Bonanza Police Department:
Jason Lee Hill was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 8 at 7:50 p.m. and released on signature bond August 9 at 1:10 a.m. Hill was charged with Theft of Property <$1k.

Arresting agency – Arkansas State Police Troop H:
Regina Faye Rector of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 10 at 8:09 p.m. and released on signature bond August 10 at 11:01 p.m. Rector was charged with Driving on Suspended or Revoked DL – DWI.

Michael David Rush, II of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 12 at 12:16 a.m. and released on signature bond August 12 at 2:25 a.m. Rush was charged with Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked, Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor, Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Steve Allen Sexton of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 3:02 p.m. and released on bond August 12 at 8:47 p.m. Sexton was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Dustin Wayne Tankersley of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 9 at 1:30 p.m. and remains at the SCADC. Tankersley was charged with Fleeing -On Foot-Misd., Refusal To Submit To Arrest Misdemeanor, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Jacob Shackleford, 47 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 6 at 1:55 p.m. Shackleford was charged with possession of controlled substance, defective signal or brake lights, possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brant Kuykendall, 39, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 7 at 3:18 p.m. Kuykendall was charged with failure to appear.

Letitia Schouweiler, 61, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 8 at 7:02 p.m. Schouweiler was charged with public intoxication.

Karl Bradley, 48, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 8 at 7:44 p.m. Bradley was charged with domestic battering in the third degree, and parole hold.

Joseph Srutka, 49 of Subiaco, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 10 at 4:26 p.m. Srutka was charged with contempt of court.

William Evans, 38 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 11 at 10:15 a.m. Evans was charged with two counts of failure to appear.

Robert Wells, 46 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 11 at 11:33 a.m. Wells was charged with violation of an order of protection, disorderly conduct, and terroristic threatening in the first degree.

Elijah Schluterman, 28 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 11 at 11:54 a.m. Schluterman was charged with hold for ADC.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Aiden J Brown, 20, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on August 7 at 12:43 a.m. Brown was charged with battery – 2nd degree/purpose of causing injury, causes serious injury, terroristic threatening – 2nd degree a person threatens to cause physical injury or property damage, resisting arrest, criminal mischief – 1st degree/property of another w/value over $1,000 but $5,000 or less, burglary, commercial, theft $1,000 or less – all others, three counts of impairing the operation of vital public facility, two counts of obstructing governmental operations (use or threaten physical force), domestic battering – 3rd degree/purpose of causing injury, two counts of failure to appear, failure to comply with conditions of suspended sentence or probation, fail to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA), two counts of impairing the operation of vital public facility, obstructing governmental operations (use or threaten physical force), and criminal mischief – 1st degree/property of another value $1,000 or more.

Thomas Anthony Figgins, 36 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on August 7 at 2:38 p.m. Figgins was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Natalie M. Lopez, 40, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on August 8 at 3:36 p.m. Lopez was charged with failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor (FTA).

Montez Laument Ward, 31 of Olive Branch, MS, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on August 10 at 8:19 a.m. Ward was charged with possession of SCH VI LT 4 oz., reckless driving, driving left of center, driving while license suspended, obstructing a highway or other public passage, failure to register vehicle, and no proof of liability insurance.

Daniel O’Connor, 19, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on August 11 at 1:57 a.m. O’Connor was charged with two counts of fleeing by vehicle – extreme indifference to human life, theft by receiving less than $25,000 but greater than $5,000, criminal mischief – 1st degree/property of another w/value over $5,000 but less than $25,000, theft by receiving $1,000 or less, cruelty to animals, possession of defaced firearm, speeding, reckless driving, fictitious tags, failure to wear seatbelt, and no proof liability insurance.

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

Project: Beautify Mansfield

Tammy Teague
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Project: Beautify Mansfield

A local business owner, and resident of Mansfield saw a blank canvas and an opportunity to showcase the beauty of the city. Anita Miza, CPA, has launched Project: Beautify Mansfield.

“As you know, we have a nice city area with a pavilion and picnic tables in the center of our town. This area is currently used for several community events throughout the year. There is an unappealing large white wall on the building just west of the pavilion area. Our project involves having a mural professionally painted on this wall to make the area more beautiful for the community. The artist chosen is Mr. Jason White of Whites Artworks. Mr. White was featured on Channel 5 News in response to a mural he painted in Fordyce. You can google “White’s Artworks” and pull up the business Facebook page which features many of the wonderful murals he has completed. We contacted the lady who managed the Fordyce mural, and they were so please with him, they have contracted him to do more murals in their town. He will research Mansfield and meet with some locals to gain knowledge of the town before he creates a design for the mural. Major contributors will be invited to join us in meeting with Mr. White to discuss the design.
We have discussed our project with Ms. Boyd, owner of the building, and she is open to having this mural on her property. She is willing to give us a 10-year agreement to secure the painting – meaning she, nor any new owner would change the mural in any way for a period of at least 10 years.”

Currently, Mize, in cooperation with the Mansfield/Huntington Area Chamber of Commerce, are seeking sponsors/contributors to help make the mural possible. All donors will be represented by a plaque mounted to the wall.

On Tuesday, August 15, Farmers Bank made a $1,000 donation towards the project.

“Please consider showing your community support by contributing to this project,” added Mize. “The total cost of the project is estimated to be $13,000.00. This is $11,000.00 for the mural and $2,000.00 for the bronze wall plaque. The plaque cost is an estimate, if there are any funds left over, they will be used for refreshments for the dedication of the mural to the City of Mansfield. If necessary, we will also be reaching out to the community for private donors to complete the project.”

Platinum Sponsorship – $3,000.00 or greater
Gold Sponsorship – Silver Sponsorship – Bronze Sponsorship –
$2,000.00
$1,000.00 $500.00

For more information on “Project: Beautify Mansfield” you can contact Mize at 479-522-4420; Email: anita@amizecpa.com; Website: www.amizecpa.com.


Bond Set for Man Charged with Murder of Infant

Tammy Teague
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Bond Set for Man Charged with Murder of Infant

Bond has been set for the man charged with first-degree murder in the August 2, 2023, death of an infant.

Rodger Sorg, 24, was given a $1,000,000.00 cash or commercial bond. His next court appearance is slated for September 18, 2023 at the Scott County Courthouse. Sorg currently remains in custody at the Scott County Detention Center.

(original story published 8/15/23 at 6:19 p.m.)
ARREST MADE IN SCOTT COUNTY CHILD DEATH

On August 8, 2023, Rodger Sorg, 24, was charged with first-degree murder in the August 2, 2023, death of 2-month-old Kyzer Fry.

The Mansfield Police Department asked Arkansas State Police to investigate the death after they were called to a home on Huntington Avenue by the child’s mother, Samantha Dotson. Dotson told investigators that she discovered the child unresponsive when she returned home from work.

Kyzer and two other children were in Sorg’s care.

Sorg is being held at the Scott County Detention Center.

Jefferson Added to the Manning Award Watch List for Nation’s Best College Quarterback

Resident News Network
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Jefferson Added to the Manning Award Watch List for Nation’s Best College Quarterback

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas’ KJ Jefferson is one of 33 quarterbacks named to the preseason watch list for the Manning Award, which is presented annually to the nation’s best college quarterback. 

The Manning Award was created by the Allstate Sugar Bowl in honor of the college football accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning. It is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting. 

Jefferson is poised to rewrite a large portion of the Arkansas record book this fall as he heads into his third season as the Hogs’ full-time starter. The Sardis, Miss., native sits inside the career top 10 in school history in completions (436 – 7th), yards (5816 – 7th), touchdown passes (48 – 6th), 300-yard passing games (5 – 3rd), total plays (1028 – 6th), total yards (7245 – 5th) and touchdown responsibility (67 – 4th). Jefferson’s name is dotted throughout the school record book for numerous single-season records, including twice for completion percentage in 2021 (.673 – 3rd) and 2022 (.680 – 2nd). 

Jefferson, who passed for 2,648 yards and 24 touchdowns with 640 yards and nine rushing scores on the ground in 2022, is the first Arkansas quarterback to earn preseason All-SEC accolades since 2012. He was also named to the preseason watch lists for the Maxwell and Davey O’Brien awards.  

Inclusion on the Watch List is not necessary for the quarterbacks to be selected for the honor. Transfers and other newcomers at schools were not eligible for the preseason Watch List, but additional quarterbacks will be added to the Watch List during the season. Finalists will be selected prior to the postseason and the winner will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship. 

Jefferson and the Razorbacks kick off the season at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 2, against FCS foe Western Carolina at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, Ark. The game will be available on SEC Network+/ESPN+. Season tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here or by calling the Razorback Ticket Center at (479) 575-5151. 

– ArkansasRazorbacks.com || On Twitter @ArkRazorbacks || Facebook.com/ArkansasRazorbacks

Note to Our Readers: The previous story was sourced directly and in its entirety from the University of Arkansas Office of Communications, Grace Tafolla.

 

New Law Office Opens in Greenwood

Tammy Teague
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New Law Office Opens in Greenwood

Tara Crippen, who opened a law firm in Mansfield in 2022, has now expanded her firm to serve the residents of the City of Greenwood, and surrounding communities.

Crippen opened her office, located at 5 S. Main in Greenwood on July 1. Although new to the area, she certainly is no newcomer to the legal profession.

Prior to becoming an attorney, she worked as a legal assistant and law clerk for 16 years.  During that time, she assisted counsel with preparing and filing appellate briefs, trial preparation, research, and has participated in every stage of the litigation process. 

Tara’s practice is primarily focused on family law.  Her practice covers a broad range of family law issues, including paternity, custody, parenting time, support and property issues.   Tara’s training in dependency neglect proceedings translates to a more child centric approach in her domestic relations matters.  In addition to family law, however, Tara’s smalltown practice is evolving to include LLC formation, estate planning and many other facets of law.  She appreciates a challenge and wants to work with people who want to work with her. 

“I do some special interest cases sometimes…I am working on a single parent adoption right now in Benton County. That’s the joy of working for yourself, you get to pick the clients you want to work with.”

Tara went to law school to learn to be an advocate for people who were not able to advocate for themselves. Her approach to law brings her straight to your door, and she will meet you where and when it is convenient for you.  

With the heart of this local attorney, you can be sure your interests will be top priority!

What To Expect From Your First Home Inspection

Resident News Network
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What To Expect From Your First Home Inspection

Embarking on the path of homeownership is not just an adventure where paint swatches become part of your daily vocabulary and furniture placement turns into a fun yet challenging puzzle. But before you can turn the key and step into your new abode, there’s one critical task that stands between you and your dream home: the home inspection. This process, while essential, can often seem intimidating, particularly for those diving into the realm of real estate for the first time. But fear not because it is possible to break down this seemingly complex procedure into a manageable process. Learning what to expect from your first home inspection will prime you for the process and help ensure everything goes off without a hitch.

Common Issues Unearthed During Home Inspections

While every home is unique, there are several issues that commonly crop up during inspections. Structural problems top the list and can include anything from foundation cracks to uneven floors. Another regular offender is the roof, where issues like missing or damaged shingles and leaks often reveal themselves. Plumbing problems, such as outdated systems or slow drains, are also common, as are electrical issues, such as faulty wiring or an inadequate electrical panel. Remember that while these issues may seem daunting—especially when stacked together—they’re not necessarily deal-breakers. They simply give you a more accurate picture of what you’re buying and can be helpful in negotiating the final purchase price of a property.

Different Types of Tests Conducted During Home Inspections

Home inspections are comprehensive evaluations that look at various aspects of the property. The inspection will typically include a review of the home’s structure, including the foundation and roof. The inspector will also check the heating and cooling systems, plumbing and electrical systems, doors and windows, and insulation and ventilation. Additionally, some inspectors will conduct specific tests for radon, mold, or asbestos, especially if the home is older or there are signs of potential issues. It’s important to note that these additional tests may require an extra fee. Always discuss what an inspection includes before getting started to ensure you and the inspector are on the same page.

Interpreting Your Home Inspection Report

Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will provide a detailed report of their findings. This document can appear overwhelming at first glance, with its long list of potential issues and technical jargon. However, it’s essential to remember that the report covers both minor and major issues, so there’s no need to panic when you see multiple entries. Each issue will typically be categorized as a safety concern, a major defect, or a minor defect. Safety concerns and major defects are the ones to pay most attention to as they could impact the home’s value or your safety. Minor defects, while worth noting, aren’t usually immediate deal-breakers. If you have trouble understanding any part of the report or are concerned about what to expect from your first home inspection, don’t hesitate to ask your inspector for clarification. They can provide valuable insight into which issues are critical and which are merely routine maintenance tasks.

Former Razorbacks and NFL Running Back Alex Collins Dead at Age 28

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Former Razorbacks and NFL Running Back Alex Collins Dead at Age 28

BULLETIN- Media outlets are reporting that former Arkansas Razorbacks running back Alex Collins has died at age 28. Collins played five seasons in the NFL and most recently for the Memphis Showboats in the USFL.

The cause of death has not been reported. Collins played for the Razorbacks under former Hogs head football coach, Bret Bielema.

RNN Sports will post additional information as it becomes available.

UAFS Police Complete Safety Upgrades

Tammy Teague
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UAFS Police Complete Safety Upgrades

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is closing out a major upgrade of its campus safety equipment this month in preparation to welcome students back to campus on Monday, August 21, installing the final set of cutting-edge camera systems across campus.

The new platform features high-definition audio and video recording, 360-degree coverage, 24-hour activity alerts, facial recognition for safety and emergency management, individual and vehicle identification and query functions, and license plate recognition. 

More than 300 new cameras have been installed since the spring, including adding 100 cameras to new locations, and upgrading 210 existing cameras to higher-quality systems. In addition to the 300+ new cameras, many of the still-functional older cameras are being be moved to lower traffic areas, rather than being taken offline completely.

University Police Department Chief Ray Ottman expressed his commitment to the safety of the campus community: “Our department is dedicated to the philosophy of community policing and continually seeks to build partnerships with students, faculty, staff, and visitors to enhance their experiences. This camera upgrade project is a result of our collaboration with our campus community, our Student Government Association, and our university administration, and aims to address the local and nation-wide increase in concern over campus safety, while providing improved functionality for police investigations, and overall health and safety preparations.”

The initial phase of the project focused heavily on the Sebastian Commons apartment complex, and included the installation of 40 new outdoor camera systems in the multi-building complex, which provide complete coverage of the facilities, recreation spaces, and parking areas. It was one of many initiatives to improve safety at the complex said Stephanie London, Assistant Dean of Students, whose role oversees campus housing.

Last year, UAFS Housing introduced live-in UPD officers to the Commons, ensuring rapid response to the area in case of emergencies. This year, the live-in officers will engage even more closely with the facility, participating in housing activities throughout the year and getting to know students living in the Sebastian Commons and Lion’s Den Residence Halls.

The UAFS Police Department comprises uniformed officers certified by the Arkansas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Training, as well as full-time dispatchers and student members who serve as additional eyes and ears on campus. UPD serves the UAFS campus 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Obituary – Richard Allen Ransom (1942-2023) 

Tammy Teague
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Obituary – Richard Allen Ransom (1942-2023) 

Richard Allen Ransom, 81, of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Saturday, August 5, 2023 in Fayetteville, Arkansas with his wife by his side. Richard was born July 27, 1942 to Harland John and Margaret Elizabeth (Haag) Ransom in Charles City, Iowa.

Richard was a member of Evening Shade Baptist Church in Waldron, Arkansas. Richard enjoyed visiting with people and hearing about their lives. He had a passion for wood working and making jewelries. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. The memories they made will forever be treasured by each of them.

Richard leaves behind to cherish his memory: his wife Edita of the home, one daughter, Mercedita Manuzon of Malaysia; one son, Jeff Manuzon of the Philippines; niece, Esther Slater of Waldron, Arkansas; one nephew, BJ Ransom of Iowa; sister-in-law, Maria Slater of Waldron, Arkansas; two sisters: Dixie Ann Steele and Duane Richard Steele of St. Paul, Minnesota and Kathy Elizabeth Jensen and Robert Jack Jensen of Wisconsin and close family friends Bill and Treva Cox of Waldron, Arkansas; nephew Billy Joe “BJ” Ransom and wife Sandra Kay Ransom and several nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Harland “Sam” John Ransom and Margaret Ransom and one brother John Ransom.

A family led life celebration will be held on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Evening Shade Baptist Church in Waldron, Arkansas with Bro. Larry Shores, Rev. Robert Presson and Rev. John Eigsti officiating.

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

You may leave words of remembrance for Richard’s family by visiting: www.heritagememorialfh.com

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