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Busy Summer for Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative

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3:09 am

Busy Summer for Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative

By Dr. Curtis Varnell

From computer technology to catching macro-invertebrates, The Guy Fenter Education Service cooperative (GFESC) has had a busy year. Located at County Line schools, the education cooperative services school districts throughout a five county area. Organized more than 40 years ago to provide schools the ability to share resources and to jointly purchase educational materials at a reduced rate, the cooperative has grown to provide teacher professional development, train early childhood providers, promote vocational and technical education, migrant services, and to serve as a conduit between the Arkansas Department of Education and local districts.

School is out for students but most teachers are busy obtaining the 30-60 hours of education classes they are required as a part of their contract. This summer, GFESC offered 235 workshops for the several thousand educators found in the region. Teacher training varies according to the needs of the districts as well as the courses mandated by the state for teacher certification. State mandated courses include instruction of prevention of suicide, bullying, and child abuse to methods of improving reading and literacy scores.

With new emphasis on vocational and technical training, GFESC has been active in working with local districts and universities in arranging concurrent credit and training in everything ranging from welding and nursing to school based gardens.

Teacher shortage is a real issue. Tammy Brewer, GFESC novice teacher program director, provides on-job training to more than 400 first through third year (novice teachers). An on-going program, the novice teachers are provided training that will assist them in providing quality education to students. With an 85% teacher retention rate, it is one of the more effective programs in the state.

Content instruction is delivered by cooperative specialists, all of whom are experience teachers with additional ADE training. Specialist deliver training in both how to teach and in increasing the content knowledge of participants. This summer, teachers have experienced geology on a barge trip around lake Ouachita, learned water quality and ecology with the staff at the Janet Huckabee Nature Center, and explored the history and geology of Mt. Magazine. Social studies teachers, with an entire set of new standards, have devised lessons and mapped our units for next year, taking a few days off to explore the music and history of Arkansas with a session at U/AFS and the Marshall’s museum.

School begins for most districts on Aug. 14. When that occurs, GFESC staff will disperse out into the 75 plus school buildings in the region to provide training, resources, and support for all of our area schools.

As you meet area educators, give them a thank you and a pat on the back. Although far from the best paid and most acknowledged schools in the state, our districts state and national evaluations show that they are some of the very best. There is always room for improvement but area educators are working hard to provide the best quality education for our students.

Obituary –Iris Joan (Cox) Shadd (1934-2023)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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9:03 pm

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Obituary –Iris Joan (Cox) Shadd (1934-2023)

Iris Joan Shadd, of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with her Lord and Savior, Monday July 10, 2023 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She fought the good fight, she finished the race and she kept the faith. Joan was born August 4, 1934 to Otto and Merle (Newson) Cox in Corcoran, California. She was the middle of nine children and was full of life and brought life to wherever she happened to be.

Joan lived her life as a caring and devoted Baptist woman and mother. She loved her faith as evident in her involvement in Haw Creek Baptist Church as a church volunteer. Joan was a member and president of the Waldron Garden Club, a member of the Business Club and the Arkansas Extension Homemaker Council Good Neighbor Eh Club. Joan lived a long and wonderful life doing things she loved. She was a florist, artist, cake decorator and caterer. Joan lived with conviction to her values, with love, charity and hope. She gave her love freely and anyone who knew her knew of her love of flowers and was surrounded always by a beautiful garden. Joan forged lasting and deep relationships with friends throughout her life; childhood friends and church friends.

Joan leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband of 72 years, Lee Virgil Shadd of the home. Her daughter LeeAnn Branndon and husband Donald of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. Her son Scott Alan Shadd of Waldron, Arkansas. Grandma will be missed by her two grandchildren; Sierra Kendall and husband Tyler of Dallas, Oregon and Dawson Shadd of Portland, Oregon; as well as three great grandchildren: Ascher Kendall, Gavin Kendall and Caden Kendall and her two grand-dogs, Maddie and April Ann.

Joan was preceded in death by two sons: Russell Shadd and Robert Shadd; her parents, Merle and Otto Cox; two sisters and three brothers: Ruth Fox, Oleta Pharr, Glen Cox, Neal Cox and Jamie Cox.

Joan’s life celebration will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 14, 2023 at the Haw Creek Baptist Church in Waldron, Arkansas with Rev. Jack Smith officiating. Interment will follow in the Pearson Cemetery in Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Honorary pallbearer will be Mike Stringer.

Joan’s visitation will be Friday, July 14, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Haw Creek Baptist Church prior to Joan’s life celebration.

We will miss Joan deeply but know that she is living within the promises of eternal life with Our Lord Jesus Christ. Please hug your loved ones in her memory.

Arrest Reports 7/1

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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8:50 pm

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Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Bradley William Anderson of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 4 at 4:25 p.m. and released on July 6 at 3:59 p.m. Anderson was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Sarah Michelle Erb of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 7 at 8:45 a.m. and released on signature bond July 7 at 10:13 a.m. Erb was charged with two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Donald Eugene Harlan of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 1 at 9:48 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 2 at 10:35 a.m. Harlan was charged with Careless Driving – Failure to Maintain Control, Refusal To Submit To a Chemical Test-adult, and Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Jesse Dwayne Hedge of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 1 at 12:10 a.m. and released on signature bond July 1 at 8:46 a.m. Hedge was charged with Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others.

Mark Lewis Mitchell of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 5 at 1:41 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 5 at 2:36 a.m. Mitchell was charged with three counts of Battery in the Second Degree – Weapon.

April Norwood of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 6 at 3:22 p.m. and remains at the SCADC. Norwood was charged with Resisting Arrest Misdemeanor, and Domestic Battering in the Third Degree – Purposely.

Aaron Dwayne Young of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 5 at 1:28 p.m. and remains at the SCADC. Young was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony, Burglary – Residential Felony, Criminal Trespass – Occupiable Structure, and Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Otis Clarence Brooks of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 3 at 11:23 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 4 at 11:50 a.m. Brooks was charged with Assault On Family Or Household Member-3rd Degre, and Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree.

Bradley Jay Carver of Huntington was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 7 at 9:02 a.m. and released on signature bond July 7 at 12:20 p.m. Carver was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony, and petition to revoke, misd.

Jose Angel Cordova of Van Buren was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 2 at 8:53 p.m. and released on signature bond July 2 at 10:57 p.m. Cordova was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Tyler Grey Elmore of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 4 at 11:41 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 7 at 4:40 p.m. Elmore was charged with Theft by Receiving >$1k.

Arresting agency – Lavaca Police Department:
Rusty Lee Gregory of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 6 at 8:54 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Gregory was charged with absconding, Parole Violation, and Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office:
Billy Joe Head of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 2 at 10:09 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Head was charged with ADC Commitment Hold, Parole Violation, Absconding, and Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Samuel James Ewin Helton of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 6 at 3:54 p.m. and remains at the SCADC on hold for the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Timothy Lee of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 4 at 7:45 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 4 at 8:01 p.m. Lee was charged with Driving While License Cancelled/Suspended/Revoked, and Driving While Intoxicated 2nd offense.

Zachary John Scherbert of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 3 at 9:15 a.m. and remains at the SCADC. Scherbert was charged with Criminal Mischief in the First Degree – $1,000 or less, communicating a False Alarm – Places People Fear, Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree, and Possession of Firearms By Certain Persons – New Crime-Felon in Possession.

Ethan Struble of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 1 at 8:05 a.m. and released on July 8 at 10:33 a.m. Struble was charged with drug court sanctions.

Kevin Lindsay Thomson of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 2 at 8:39 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond July 2 at 10:32 p.m. Thompson was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Keith Wayne Ward of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on July 3 at 10:01 p.m. and released on cash bond July 6 at 3:31 p.m. Ward was charged with Assault On Family Or Household Member-3rd Degree.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Darin Stephens, 50 of Delaware, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 1 at 4:33 a.m. Stephens was charged with disorderly conduct.

Jason Palczynski, 40, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 2 at 7:44 p.m. Palczynski was charged with failure to pay.

Hannah Elizabeth Estes, 26 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 3 at 2:36 p.m. Estes was charged with failure to appear.

Jason Rowe, 29 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 4 at 8:56 p.m. Rowe was charged with possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Raymond Watson, 63 of Ft. Smith, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 6 at 5:20 p.m. Watson was charged with hold for U.S. Marshals.

Tabetha Emberson, 44 of Mansfield, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on July 8 at 4:02 p.m. Emberson was charged with failure to appear.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Brian Lee Novak, 56 of Springdale, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 4 at 4:22 p.m. Novak was charged with two counts of failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor.

Miranda Black, 43 of Fort Smith, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 6 at 12:00 p.m. Black was sentenced to the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Jordan David Edward Thomas, 29 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 6 at 3:44 p.m. Thomas was charged with violation of a protection order – misdemeanor.

Ottis Lane Owens, 47 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 7 at 8:51 a.m. Owens sentenced to days.

Benjamin Bonner, 37 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 7 at 11:46 p.m. Bonner was charged with public intoxication, disorderly conduct, contempt-failure to comply, and failure to appear on unclassified misdemeanor.

Brandon Stines, 22 of Huntsville, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on July 8 at 7:57 a.m. Stines is charged with hold for other agencies.

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

Four Diamond Hogs Selected on Day Two of MLB Draft

Sports

Resident News Network

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4:09 pm

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Four Diamond Hogs Selected on Day Two of MLB Draft

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas pitcher Hunter Hollan as well as outfielders Tavian Josenberger, Jace Bohrofen and Jared Wegner heard their names called on day two of the 2023 MLB Draft.

Hollan was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the third round (No. 74 overall) before Josenberger was picked up by the Baltimore Orioles later in the same round (No. 100 overall). Bohrofen was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the sixth round (No. 184 overall), and Wegner was scooped up by the New York Yankees in the ninth round (No. 282 overall).

Through 10 rounds, five Razorbacks have been selected in the 2023 MLB Draft, tying for third most among all SEC programs. Pitcher Jaxon Wiggins was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the second round (No. 68 overall) yesterday.

Hollan, the 18th Arkansas pitcher drafted since 2019 and the 14th taken in the top 10 rounds, posted a stellar 8-2 record with a 4.13 ERA and 74 strikeouts in 80.2 innings of work this past season. He led the Razorbacks in quality starts with six, including one complete game, and made a pair of relief appearances, recording one save in the process.

The Hallsville, Texas, native was named the SEC Pitcher of the Week as well as the NCBWA National Pitcher of the Week after tossing a nine-inning complete game with a career-high 10 strikeouts against No. 6 South Carolina on May 14. He became the first Arkansas pitcher since 2016 to throw a complete game of at least nine innings against an SEC foe.

Josenberger, who landed on the SEC All-Defensive Team, was the Razobacks’ leadoff hitter and everyday centerfielder in 2023. The switch-hitting speedster slashed .286/.414/.490 with 10 home runs and 33 RBI, finishing second on the Hogs in multi-hit games with 19. He also led the Razorbacks in stolen bases with 13 on the year.

Defensively, Josenberger logged a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage in center field. The Kansas City, Mo., native did not record an error in 137 total chances and carded a team-high seven outfield assists with five double plays turned.

Bohrofen, one of the Hogs’ three team captains in 2023, started all 60 games played in and slashed a team-leading .318/.436/.612 with 16 home runs and 52 RBI. He finished the season as the team leader in runs scored (54), hits (68), doubles (15), home runs (16), extra-base hits (31) and total bases (131).

The Oklahoma City, Okla., product also drew 32 walks and was hit by a team-high 16 pitches on the year. He racked up a team-leading 21 multi-hit games and 17 multi-RBI games during his tremendous junior campaign.

Wegner, who came to Arkansas as a graduate transfer from Creighton, slashed .313/.457/.673 with 15 home runs and 51 RBI in his lone season as a Razorback. Despite missing nearly 20 games dues to injury, he led the Hogs in slugging percentage (.673) and finished second on the team in both home runs (15) and runs batted in (52). Wegner matched a a single-game program record with five walks in a game against Louisiana Tech on March 12.

The Kearney, Neb., native racked up numerous accolades during his one season at Arkansas, including preseason All-America praise from the NCBWA, player of the week honors from the SEC and midseason All-America recognition from D1Baseball. He was named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team at the year’s end.

Additionally, through the first 10 rounds of this year’s draft, six Razorback signees – infielder Aidan Miller (1st round, No. 27 overall – Philadelphia Phillies), outfielder Kendall George (1st round, No. 36 overall – Los Angeles Dodgers), infielder Nazzan Zanetello (2nd round, No. 50 overall – Boston Red Sox), infielder Walker Martin (2nd round, No. 52 overall – San Francisco Giants), pitcher Dylan Questad (5th round, 150th overall – Minnesota Twins) and pitcher Barrett Kent (8th round, 234th overall – Los Angeles Angels) – have been selected. Arkansas leads all teams with six drafted signees.

The MLB draft concludes today with rounds 11-20 slated to begin at 1 p.m. CT.

For complete coverage of Arkansas baseball, follow the Hogs on Twitter (@RazorbackBSB), Instagram (@RazorbackBSB) and Facebook (Arkansas Razorback Baseball).

– 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, Oliver Grigg.

Obituary – Betty Jane Craig (1932-2023)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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9:32 pm

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Betty Jane Craig, 90, of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with her Lord and Savior, Tuesday July 4, 2023. Betty was born October 14, 1932, in Glendale, Oklahoma, to George and Jewell Ryburn. She married Earl Lee Craig and they had one child, Rickie Lee Craig, who died of leukemia at 10 years of age. Everyone who knew Betty knew that Jesus was first in her life. She was a faithful servant and witness for the Lord. She was a member of Winfield Baptist Church.

Betty graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University and an MBA from Northeastern State University. Betty’s love for children allowed her to pursue her dream of teaching at both elementary schools and as a librarian at Waldron High School. Her true passion was teaching Sunday school to children for Winfield Baptist Church. Betty, also, loved her animals. She raised miniature horses and always had dogs. Betty was a kind and caring person. The memories she made with her loved ones and friends will forever be treasured by each of them.

Betty is survived by her brother, Don and his wife Darlene of Arlington, Texas and several nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Lee Craig, her son Rickie Lee Craig, her parents, George Washington Ryburn and Jewell Dovie (Hunsucker) Ryburn, her two siblings, Annabelle Higginbotham and George ‘Don’ Ryburn.

Betty’s memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Bro. William Crelia officiating. Her interment will be a private family service to follow. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Betty’s family will be receiving friends with a reception to be held prior at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000 Boone, NC 28607.

Razorbacks’ Jaxon Wiggins Selected in Second Round of MLB Draft by the Chicago Cubs

Sports

Resident News Network

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6:41 pm

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Razorbacks’ Jaxon Wiggins Selected in Second Round of MLB Draft by the Chicago Cubs

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas pitcher Jaxon Wiggins was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the second round (68th overall) of the 2023 MLB Draft.

The hard-throwing right-hander, the Hogs’ lone selection on day one of the draft, is the 253rd overall draft selection in program history. Wiggins is the 17th Arkansas pitcher drafted since 2019 as well as the 13th taken in the first 10 rounds.

Wiggins was expected to headline the Razorbacks’ starting rotation before missing the entirety of the 2023 season after suffering a torn ulnar collateral ligament that required Tommy John surgery. In his Arkansas career, the Roland, Okla., native appeared in 34 games with 19 starts and recorded a 9-4 record with a 6.17 ERA and 110 strikeouts in 89 innings.

As a sophomore in 2022, Wiggins went 6-3 with a 6.55 ERA and 82 strikeouts in 66 innings across 17 appearances with 15 starts. He made 17 appearances, including four starts, on the mound as a true freshman in 2021 and posted a 3-1 record with a 5.09 ERA, 28 strikeouts and four saves in 23 innings pitched.

Wiggins is the second Arkansas pitcher in as many drafts to be selected in the second round. Fellow right-hander Peyton Pallette was picked up by the Chicago White Sox in the second round (62nd overall) of last year’s MLB draft.

Through the first two rounds of this year’s draft, four Razorback signees – infielder Aidan Miller (1st round, No. 27 overall – Philadelphia Phillies), outfielder Kendall George (1st round, No. 36 overall – Los Angeles Dodgers), infielder Nazzan Zanetello (2nd round, No. 50 overall – Boston Red Sox) and infielder Walker Martin (2nd round, No. 52 overall – San Francisco Giants) – have been selected. Arkansas and Vanderbilt lead all teams with four drafted signees.

The 20-round MLB draft continues with rounds 3-10 tomorrow beginning at 1 p.m. CT.

For complete coverage of Arkansas baseball, follow the Hogs on Twitter (@RazorbackBSB), Instagram (@RazorbackBSB) and Facebook (Arkansas Razorback Baseball).

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

Arkansas Law Enforcement Urge Drivers to Slow Down

News

Tammy Teague

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4:30 pm

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Arkansas Law Enforcement Urge Drivers to Slow Down

This summer, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with Arkansas law enforcement to keep drivers and passengers safe by raising awareness about the dangers of speeding and urging drivers to obey speed limits. From July 17 through July 31, law enforcement officers will be on higher alert for speeding vehicles while participating in the Speeding Slows You Down campaign. If you’re pulled over for speeding, you can expect to be issued a ticket for breaking the law.

Not only is speeding illegal, it’s deadly. In 2020, speeding killed 11,258 people, accounting for more than one-quarter of all traffic fatalities. Tragically, there was a dramatic increase (17%) in speeding-related fatalities from 2019-2020, with a projected 5% increase from 2020-2021. NHTSA and Arkansas law enforcement officers remind drivers that, no matter how experienced you are as a driver, ultimately, Speeding Slows You Down.

Much like impaired driving, speeding is a selfish choice that can have deadly consequences for the driver, vehicle passenger, and pedestrians. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around another vehicle, a hazardous object, or an unexpected curve. Even the safest cars with the newest technologies are limited in reducing the odds of a crash and the injuries or death that may result.

“Speed limit signs are not suggestions. They are the law,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar. “They are posted for the safety of the driver and others on the road. If you’re killed in a crash, or if you kill someone else, there’s no second chance. Speeding just isn’t worth the risk.”

According to NHTSA, local roads are more dangerous than highways for speeders: In 2020, 87% of all speeding-related traffic fatalities on American roads occurred on non-interstate roadways.

Additionally, young drivers and motorcyclists are especially susceptible to high speeds, and they represent the largest demographic involved in speeding-related crashes. In 2020, 27% of males ages 18-44 and 17% of female drivers ages 18-34 involved in fatal crashes were speeding.

Alcohol and weather also increase the likelihood of a crash while speeding. In 2020, 37% of the drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding and had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, compared to 17% of non-speeding drivers. The chances of a crash on wet roads also increases drastically when a vehicle is speeding.

Whether it’s the type of roadway, weather conditions, age of the driver, or impairment, speeding is dangerous for everyone involved. Don’t risk it, obey the posted speed limits and avoid the consequences. Remember, Speeding Slows You Down.

For more information, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. For more on Arkansas’ ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities, visit www.TZDArkansas.org

Obituary – Jessie Jean Fuller (1939-2023)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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4:14 pm

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Obituary – Jessie Jean Fuller (1939-2023)

Jean J. Fuller of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with her Lord and Savior, Thursday, July 6, 2023 at her home with her loving brother by her side. Jean was born July 23, 1939 in Waldron, Arkansas to Arvil and Elsie (Sellers) Fuller. Jean was 83 years old.

Jean was a lifetime member of Evening Shade Baptist Church near Waldron, Arkansas. She was small in size but big in heart and her heart was full of love for her siblings and friend but mostly her love for her Savior Jesus Christ. Jean always talked about Christ and what her future would be. Times were difficult when Jean grew up, but she learned to work hard and manager her life well. She and her siblings, Juan and Buddy Fuller, had a very close bond. Jean cared for her sister Juan when she became ill and cared the same for Bud. Jean worked for Whirlpool for 42 years. In her younger years, Jean and Juan were part of the Golden Girls Wrestling. Jean also had a love for traveling. She rode her motorcycle all around the country and even to Mexico. Jean enjoyed spending time with her brother, sister and friends. The memories made with her loved ones will forever be treasured.

Jean leaves behind to cherish her memory her brother Kenneth “Bud” Howard Fuller of Waldron, Arkansas; as well as a host of extended family, neighbors and church family.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Arvil and Elsie Fuller and her sister Etola Juan Fuller.

Jean’s memorial graveside service will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at the Freedom Cemetery near Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements and cremation are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Waldron, Arkansas.

Huskey Honored for Over Three Decades with Arkansas Forestry Commission

News

Tammy Teague

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9:38 pm

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Huskey Honored for Over Three Decades with Arkansas Forestry Commission

With over three decades of faithful service with the Arkansas Forestry Commission, Sebastian County’s Russell Huskey has decided to hang up his hat. And, on Saturday, July 1, family, friends, and co-workers turned out to honor him.

At Ranger Huskey’s surprise retirement celebration, held at Western Sizzlin in Fort Smith, co-workers shared stories and reflected on the memories throughout the years.

Director of Sebastian County Emergency Management, Travis Cooper, presented Huskey with a certificate of exceptional leadership within the county. Additionally, on behalf of Sebastian County Judge Steve Hotz, a proclamation of commendation for his loyal service and dedication to the departments through training and community service.

*Director of Sebastian County Emergency Management Travis Cooper (left) presented Ranger Russell Huskey (right) with a certificate and proclamation recognizing his dedication and service.*

He recalled his start with the AFC, noting that he was working at Fliteline Motors in Fort Smith when he heard about the job opening. “They (Fliteline Motors) had no benefits, or room for advancement. I was told forestry was going to have an open position…I wouldn’t have to drive to Ft. Smith, I would make more money, have room for advancement, the opportunity to learn how to operate equipment and be able to be outside working.”

Since that time, he has shared his knowledge and experience with countless others in the fire service and help give them their career start.

“As his wife I know how faithful and dedicated he has been to the state,” shared Teri Huskey. That dedication to service has spread far beyond the borders of the county and state, including multiple out-of-state deployments with the Razorback Crew.

Huskey recalled some of his career highlights, stating, “…going on fire details where you see all parts of the US that you probably would never get to see any other time in life. I have also met a lot of people and made lifelong friendships. I would send home pictures to my wife and make her jealous because you really do get to see God’s wonderful works in the beauty of the mountains and valleys in some of the NW regions of the US. I always liked being able to help others save their property and homes from being destroyed by a wildfire, even though your own life is at risk, it was always rewarding.”

Russell and his wife Teri with their grandchildren.

Even though he has retired his Ranger hat, he still plans to stay active, do fire details and work.

He concluded, offering words of advice for those interested in working in forestry. “You don’t have to have a college degree to work in forestry, but it does help. There are jobs where you will start at the bottom, but you have to start somewhere. This job can be a strain on your life if you’re married and have children because of all the weeks and weekends you may be ON call status. There will be special events or ballgames you have to miss because you’re on a fire in the county or getting a call in the middle of the night. So, if you’re thinking of entering the field of forestry, especially on the fire side, I would discuss it with your spouse and family just to make sure they are comfortable and understand that there is a commitment to be made with this job.”

For all the years your work took you from your family, and for all the times you went above and beyond the call of duty, we, the citizens of Sebastian County say, “thank you” Ranger Huskey. Your sacrifice has not gone unnoticed. We wish you nothing but the best in your retirement years.

AFC Rangers Huskey (Sebastian County) and David Yandell (Scott County).

Bourne Supremacy Ends, Greenwood’s Jim Philpot Picks Up Win

Networks

Ross Fujibayashi

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7:58 pm

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Bourne Supremacy Ends, Greenwood’s Jim Philpot Picks Up Win

After four straight wins in the Sunoco USRA Factory Stock class, Wesley Bourne had a front row seat as Jim Philpot took the win.

Weather looked like it might claim another race weekend early on Saturday, but the show went on at The Mighty Tri-State Speedway. With the weather not making up it’s mind track prep was pushed back and it was well worth the wait as 62 cars checked on the night. The headliner race of the night Was the USRA B-Mod class as they were running for $2000 to win in the B-Mod Madness presented by SDI (Sonny Davis Incorporated)

USRA B-Mod Madness

Lebanon, Missouri’s Kris Jackson would make the trek into Oklahoma to take on last weeks July 4th Weekend Sweep winner Dalton Ragsdale out of Muskogee, Oklahoma. Last weekend, Ragsdale put together quite the weekend by winning at Arrowhead Speedway in Colcord, OK, The Mighty Tri-State Speedway in Pocola, OK, and capping it off with a last minute decision to race and then win at Crawford County Speedway in Cedarville, AR.

Kris Jackson would jump out to the early lead while Ragsdale would make his way from 5th on the start. The 19K of multi-time Tri-State Speedway feature winner Kyle Slader would sit in 2nd. Six laps in the first caution would come out for a spin in turn 2 by the 00 of Cason Harris. Tightening the field back up found Jackson, Slader, and Ragsdale 1-2-3 repectfully. With J.R. Owen and Devin Baker rounding out the top 5. A few laps later would bring out another Caution with the top 3 unchanged but Greenwood’s Kyle Ledford and Hackett’s Jacob Campbell in 4th and 5th. Green flag laps would be short as another Caution would come out, the top 4 would be the same but Ty Evans in the 5E would now sit in 5th. The restart would be short lived as another caution brought the group back together. Ty Evans would get a great restart and push past Kyle Ledford for fourth. After taking the White Flag with one lap to go, an incident off of turn 4 completed the race.

Kris Jackson led flag to flag to take home the $2,000 purse with Muskogee racers Dalton Ragsdale and Kyle Slader coming in 2nd & 3rd. Big mover of the night was Ty Evans who jumped up 10 spots to snag 4th and Greenwood’s Kyle Ledford rounding out the Top 5

Hackett’s Jacob Campbell is the point leader going into the final July race weekend on the 15th. Kyle Ledford is in second 54 points back and Cody King out of Fanshawe is in third 61 points behind.

Medieval Chassis USRA Stock Car

it was a much calmer race with Coweta, OK’s Christopher Theodore starting on pole and Mt. Ida native Chad Abernathy starting alongside. It took two laps until H Wayne Palmer in the Palmer Brothers Racing legendary X-15 took the lead on lap 2. From there it was all Palmer as no cautions came out on the Speedway and he picked up his first win of the season at Tri-State Speedway

The points battle is close in Stock Car with Brandon Hunter up 13 points over Andy Morris in 2nd. Gentry, Arkansas’ Jeff Metcalf is in 3rd 20 points out of the lead. Greenwood’s Andy Milliken sits in 4th 82 points back.

USRA Modified

Stillwell, Oklahoma driver Drake Long would start on the pole alongside last weeks winner in a thriller Trevor Hughes. Hughes would jump out to a quick lead and go un-contested even after one caution for a slow car. Jake Davis from Hackett, AR had issues in the heat race but they were resolved by A Feature time as he would make up 4 spots and challenge Drake Long for second. On the only restart Roy Long would find himself in the 3rd position but would drop back to 7th after a few laps before pulling off. Van Buren’s Mike Hines would finish 4th and Greenwood’s Jason Payton would finish 5th.

Back to Back Modified Feature winner Trevor Hughes leads the points in Modified with 473. Jake Davis is second with 434, and Mike Hines in 3rd with 406.

Sunoco USRA Factory Stocks presented by PG Roofing

Wesley Bourne’s win streak has stopped at four, but certainly was not for a lack of effort as Bourne would finish 2nd on the night. Pole Sitter Rowdy Bonewell from Rudy, AR would lead the first lap. Starting lap 2 Greenwood’s Jim Philpot seized an opportunity to get past the leader as he bobbled out of turn 2, spinning cars behind them would negate the lap and the pass as the caution came out. Philpot would then take the lead on the restart and run away from the group with Bonewell in 2nd, Bourne in 3rd and Dallas Bourland in 4th. Another Caution would bring them back together but they could not catch the 25 of Philpot. Bourne and Bourland would get around Bonewell but the lead was to much to catch up. Jim Philpot would go on to win the Factory Stock A Feature with Bourne, Bourland, and Bonewell getting 2-3-4. Fifth place would go to Van Buren’s Justin Johnson.

With as many wins that Wesley Bourne had strung together between June and July he sits 2nd in points to Dallas Bourland, but it is a close as is the racing is on the track. 2 points is all that separates them. Justin Johnson is third in points just 48 points behind Bourland.

USRA Tuners

Chris Tuck would win his fourth feature on the year in his Honda Prelude. Ricky Foster did not bring the familiar Honda Del-Sol, but drove a Honda Accord to 2nd. Bobby Mulkey would bring his Acura Integra in 3rd. Making it a 1-2-3 finish for Honda Power.

Chris tuck is out to a commanding lead in the points, the closest competitor is 305 points back.

Tri-State will be back in action on July 15 for a weekly points night then off for two weekends and return August 5th with a USRA Factory Stock Special.

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