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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)

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


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

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)

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

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.

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.

Russell and Teri Huskey

“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

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.

Several Razorbacks Could Hear Their Names Called in Major League Baseball Draft

Note to Our Readers: RNN Sports would like to thank our Northwest Arkansas correspondent and photojournalist, John D. James, for his contribution to this story.

SEATTLE, WA- It is that time of year again for not only the Arkansas baseball program, but college programs around the country. The 2023 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft will begin Sunday, July 9 with the first two rounds. Rounds 3-10 will be held on Monday, July 10. In those first three rounds, several Razorbacks could hear their names called by major league teams.

Tavian Josenberger could be the second Razorback selected in the MLB Draft (RNN Sports File Photo / Jim Best)

The first projected Razorbacks player to be selected in the draft is outfield Jace Bohrofen. Bohrofen is a transfer to Arkansas from the University of Oklahoma and hails from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. As a freshman for the Sooners, Bohrofen played in 35 games, starting 29 of them. He hit for .252 for Oklahoma with two home runs and 18 RBIs. As a Razorback in 2022, he played in 32 games and started 24. He hit .333 with three home runs. Bohorfen batted .313 for the Hogs in 2023. Some mock draft predictions show Bohrofen as the 66th overall pick to be selected by the Kansas City Royals.

Another Razorbacks outfielder, Tavian Josenberger, could be the next Hog selected in the MLB Draft. Josenberger has been listed by some sources as possibly the 149th overall selection and to be drafted by the Chicago Cubs. According to the website, northsidebound.com, Josenberger, “looks like he can play center field in the pros and features good batted ball data with a barrel rate above 20%.” He is predicted to be a draft pick that would be slotted for “$416,000 with a $416,900 bonus”, according to the website.

The Hogs’ Hunter Hollan (39) is regarded as perhaps the best left-hander in this year’s MLB Draft (RNN Sports File Photo / Jim Best)

But Arkansas’s roster will not be affected by just losses to the outfield. Several Razorbacks pitchers, including flame thrower Jaxson Wiggins who did not play due to an injury in 2023, could opt out to professional baseball. Along with Wiggins, lefthander Hunter Hollan may be the best left-handed pitcher in this year’s draft, according to some sources. Hollan’s decision to go or remain at Arkansas will be huge for the Razorbacks. According to some insiders, he may opt to leave this year while his draft capital is at its highest. If he remains at Arkansas, he and pitcher Brady Tygart could form the nucleous of a very tough weekend, conference rotation in 2024.

Leading the list of unknown draft prospects that could affect the Hogs next season is the possibility of Will McEntire (41) being selected in the MLB Draft this week (RNN Sports File Photo / Jim Best)

And then there are the purely unknown and unpredictable selections and decisions for college baseball programs. For Arkansas, it is foreseeable that pitcher Will McEntire could be among the Arkansas pitchers who are drafted and decide to move on with their careers in professional baseball. Also, transfer strike out ace from the Indiana Hoosiers, Craig Yoho, could be drafted and decide to bypass the Razorbacks, moving also into professional baseball.

Craig Yoho, formerly of Indiana, and who announced his decision to transfer to Arkansas, could decide to play pro ball in 2024 if drafted this week (Image Source: Twitter)

So, for Hogs baseball fans, the unknown effect of the MLB Draft on the Arkansas program could again be a mystery until names are called and the players make their decisions. It is an effect of having a good college program that is always loaded with talent. Arkansas head baseball coach Dave Van Horn has done a masterful job in compensating for the MLB Draft and maintaining the influx of good talent in the Razorbacks baseball program. And once again, Coach Van Horn will bring new talent to the program while touting the success for former players in playing at Arkansas as a way to realize their major league dreams.

Good luck to all of the players, and here’s to wishing your dreams come true this weekend!

Greenwood City Council Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 7:08 p.m. by Mayor Doug Kinslow. The roll was called by City Clerk/Treasurer Sharla Derry and council members present at roll call were AC Brown, Ralph Meeker, Tim Terry, Roger Rainwater, and Daniel McDaniel; a quorum was declared and Council member Rod Powell arrived shortly after roll call at 7:11 p.m.; City Attorney Travis Plummer was present, Prayer was offered by Bro. Ronnie Deal of First Baptist Church and Pledge of Allegiance was led by Parks Commission Chair Joel Goldstein.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Meeker to approve the May 1, 2023 regular City Council Meeting minutes as presented; motion passed unanimously.
Recognitions and Acknowledgements
Mayor Kinslow honored the Lady Bulldogs Basketball Team with a proclamation for their state championship win.
Committee Reports:
Boys & Girls Club -Report Submitted; Director Kenny Sunde directed council to tablets to view a video of a drone flyover of the club grounds showing the amount of cars parked there for an event. Mr.
Tim Terry inquired about an alternate exit to the grounds, and Mr. Sunde stated that a right-of-way would need to be obtained and said it’s a no-go so far; there was discussion that the Boys & Girls’ Club property
itself is annexed into the City; Mr. Sunde requested that help with funding for a lighting project be considered by council and there was agreement that this would be added to the agenda.
SRCA – Report Submitted
Parks Commission – Report Submitted
Water/Wastewater Commission- None
Citizen Forum:
Mireya Chavez updated council on La Fiesta’s pursuit of an alcohol sales
permit; Mr. Powell advised that he has added the alcohol ordinance to the agenda, and seeing no emergency it would go through three readings. Ms. Chavez said that she is willing to wait on that, loves
Greenwood, and wants to see it bettered and questioned why take money to somewhere else when it could be kept local. There was further discussion about various aspects of the alcohol ordinance and the fees.
Financial Report -Report Submitted
Agenda Additions
Mayor – Maintenance of City Rights-of-Way
Council – Lighting of SCBGC Ball Fields
Rod Powell – Proposed Amendment to Private Club License
there were no noted objections to these items being placed on the agenda.
OLD/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Animal Control – Repealing and Replacing Ord 22-01 Animal Control Ordinance- 3rd Reading – Mayor Kinslow stated that he has discussed changes to be made to alleviate certain overwhelming aspects of Mrs. Gwin’s dual duties. Mrs. Smith confirmed that there are no changes to this since the past reading and motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Brown to put this on third reading by title only; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the City Clerk.
Animal Control – Ordinance Repealing and Replacing Ordinance#502 Prohibiting Unnecessary Noise – 3rd Reading – There was discussion about Section 12 and who issues citations; Mrs. Smith elaborated on Section 12 and stated that the verbiage is modeled after the City of Fort Smith’s ordinance and the City Attorney stated that the Mayor could designate a code enforcement officer and Mrs. Smith stated that in order to issue a citation, a driver’s license has to be utilized in order to do that.
Mr. Plummer also confirmed that a citation would be the most effective way to get them into a court as it is a notice of a court date, whereas a summons is only a notice that someone has a pending lawsuit against
them, usually in the civil sense; after discussion of several other aspects of the ordinance, motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Meeker; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the
City Clerk.
Mayor- Ordinance Prohibiting Heavy Haul and Semi-Truck Traffic on Highway 10 Spur/Center Street – 3rd Reading – Mayor Kinslow stated that the intent of this is to preserve the maintenance of the road now that the City owns it and specified that Ms. Derry has filled in the blanks
where necessary compared to the blank spaces from previous readings; Police Chief Dawson stated that the Judge has also reviewed the ordinance and approves; motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by
Mr. McDaniel to put this on third reading by title only; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the City Clerk.
City Attorney – Ordinance Updating City Attorney Duties 1st Reading- Mr. Plummer referenced an email that he had sent to the City Council members that contained an agreement that he had with the City of Hartford, in conclusion, the City Council asked for all current ordinances to be combined into one, referencing the salary matrix resolution so that the ordinance wouldn’t have to be changed because of that, and bring back for a first reading at the next meeting.
There was discussion regarding the Finance Department requesting documentation for proof of payment for direct cost reimbursements; Mr. Plummer stated that, while auditors have never questioned his bills
from other cities, he did not see where this was required by law. Motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Meeker to pay the city attorney invoice as presented in the packet; motion passed unanimously.
Planning- Ordinance Repealing and Replacing Zoning Ordinance #22-13 to Change Zoning for Storage Units – 3rd Reading – Mr. Bell presented this and motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Terry to put the ordinance on its third reading by title only; Mr. Brown
questioned the inclusion of mentioned tables that were missing at the end of the ordinance and it was decided that these needed to be listed as “Exhibits” to the ordinance; there was additional discussion to
make “Planning/Building Department” consistent throughout and there was also change requested for Article V, Section 1(f) on page 13 and 25 to add “and city council in addition to the planning commission where those appear as related to conditional use; Mr. Brown mentioned an error that appears as “unifies” when it should be”unified”; these changes as specified were acknowledged by Mr. Bell; Mr. Terry expressed concern that, when rezoning of property occurs, the final decision should lie with the City council since any possible lawsuit would be against that body. Mr. Brown requested that the tables include headers on every page for ease of reference. Mr. McDaniel’s earlier motion was amended to table the ordinance with changes discussed, seconded by Mr. Rainwater; motion passed unanimously; Mr. Bell acknowledged inthe affirmative that changes would be applied as discussed and brought back to the July meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Planning – Ordinance Annexing City Lake Property- 1st Reading- Mr. Bell presented this and said it has been ongoing since 2013 and the Judge has signed off on it. He requested for the second and third readings to be passed in time for the Cuthbert Bridge dedication so that it can be part of the City; Ms. Derry asked Mr. Bell for clarification that the Parks Commission voted for these annexed areas to be part of the parks system, to which he agreed and said that it has been zoned Open Space and is Greenwood City property; there was a discussion about which ward the area would be designated. Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to put this on first reading by title only;
there was discussion as to the ward issue and Mr. Powell amended his earlier motion to fill in the blank space in Section 2 of the ordinance with the number “2”; motion passed unanimously and the title was
read by the City Clerk. Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to waive the second and third readings of the ordinance and to include number two in the blank; motion passed unanimously.
Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to adopt the ordinance; motion passed unanimously.
Parks -Ordinance Authorizing Related Party Transaction for Parks Project- Emergency
Passage – Mr. Goldstein stated that, as he understands it, this is needed due to a parks employee’s son having a laser cutting tool and an item is needed for the 4″ of July celebration and the Parks Director
needs the services rendered; motion was made by Mr. Terry, seconded by Mr. Powell to put this ordinance on first reading by title only; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the City Clerk. Motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Powell to waive the second and third readings of the ordinance; motion passed unanimously. Motion was made by Mr. Terry, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to adopt the ordinance; motion passed unanimously. Motion was made by Mr. Brown,
seconded by Mr. Rainwater to invoke the emergency clause; motion passed by majority with Mr. McDaniel voting no and all others voting yes.
Parks- Resolution Authorizing Outdoor Recreation Matching Grant Application for inclusive Park – Ms. Derry advised council that Mr. Craig could be reached by cellphone if needed for any questions related to this; Parks Commission Chair Mr. Goldstein was on hand to answer questions.
Ms. Derry stated that she believes this inclusive park project has been reported to become a destination for the tri-county area and is estimated to cost $375,000 to construct and is included in the 2024 budget; she directed the Council’s attention to the next-to-last paragraph and said that it is important to note; she also said that the wording in the resolution has been crafted by WAPDD as needed for the grant requirements. Mayor Kinslow stated that this is a matching grant, up to $250,000; motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. Meeker to approve this as presented; motion passed unanimously.
Finance – Resolution to Amend Budget for New Senior Center Property Real Estate Taxes
Ms. Derry stated that, since the City owned the property only part of the year, and the 2022 taxes were due in 2023, partial year ownership by the City still requires full year payment. Mr. Plummer stated that should have been taken care of at closing and Ms. Derry said that she would need to go look at the closing paperwork to determine how it was handled. Mr. Terry inquired about the other portion of taxes due listed
in the resolution and she asked Chief Bryan to explain the portion due for the lake property and he explained that those amounts were for the rural fire dues. Ms. Derry stated that if income is earned off of
city properties such as the rentals the City operates with the fire property on Highway 71, and not governmental purposes, then the City will have to continue to pay real estate taxes on those properties;
there was discussion and questions about the future SRCA building and why tax is not charged on the Senator Ed Wilkinson Building – to which Ms. Derry said that the County Assessor Zach Johnson would
need to explain. There was discussion as to the payment being made on this and Ms. Derry stated that she thought the payment has already been made on this and the resolution is needed to amend the budget
thereby; she also said she was not sure if the payment has been sent or not yet. Mr. Plummer read a law excerpt as follows: “public property which may be reserved for use by any person or organization with or
without a fee for such use, and is being used exclusively for public purposes, regardless if the event for which the property is reserved is open for attendance or participation by the general public” he stated
that is an exemption. In conclusion, motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Rainwater to table this resolution until what is talked about is known; motion passed unanimously and the item was tabled.
Wastewater – Resolution to Waive Competitive Bidding on Generator Purchases – Mr. Moore presented this and stated the need for the resolution; motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by
Mr. Meeker to waive competitive bidding on the purchase of these generators; motion passed unanimously.
Mayor – Maintenance of City Rights-of-Way – Mayor Kinslow stated that based on a discussion this morning in the department head meeting, he felt that a discussion would be beneficial to find out council’s feeling on the subject of what areas in the right-of-way are to be the property owner’s responsibility to maintain, or if the City should be doing this because of safety issues. There was general agreement that whatever the state mowed, the City should now be mowing; Mr. Turner stated that within the current ordinance, that would be in violation, especially in subdivisions with back-to-back fences and the easement and right-of-way he did not know; there was a lengthy discussion regarding fences and a request was made to bring a fence regulation back before council. Mayor Kinslow suggested that the current ordinance may need to be amended and his concern is for the mowing of the commercial corridor.
in conclusion, the Mayor stated that, with the City Council’s blessing, the Street Department will mow what needs to be mowed this season; there was no noted objection to this.
Daniel McDaniel -Lighting of SCBGC Ball Fields – Mr. McDaniel said that he was not sure anything could be determined, or that funding is available until Mr. Marsh was present to provide financial/information, but he wanted to get the discussion started. Ms. Derry stated that Mr. Marsh has requested that the quarterly budget work session be rescheduled from July 12 to July 13 and there was no noted objection to this. Club Director Kenny Sunde was on hand to provide detail on the various phases of the lighting project and Mr. Brown requested that the proposal be broken down into the four sections for the next meeting so that this could be considered at the budget review meeting, and this was
acknowledged in the affirmative by Mr. Sunde. In conclusion, it was decided that this be considered at the next council meeting in July.
Rod Powell – Proposed Amendments to Private Club License – Mr. Powell stated that he has visited with Mr. Plummer and has worked with Mr. Hunter Miles to determine 400 foot distances in town and amend Item L of ordinance #18-04 by that. He said that regarding Item K with the fees he would like consideration of restricting that revenue to trails, which could include sidewalks. He said the other item involves the Municipal League, or legalities and allowing entertainment districting of a square, over a portion of highway 10 Spur, or the Curve. He also said that he is trying to find out if a food court is eligible for a private club license. After discussion, he said when he gets defined answers, after visiting
with the city attorney and formation of amendments to the ordinance, he will bring them forward. There was additional discussion, including the distance requirements being too restrictive. There was additional
commentary and discussion with Ms. Chavez of La Fiesta who was present to answer questions about their plans to obtain a private club license. Mr. Bob Purvis encouraged the La Fiesta Ordinance to be read
concurrent with the amendment o the alcohol ordinance so that both could be adopted on a more favorable timetable.
Department reports and questionsfromCouncil
None
Council Forum
Mr. Purvis stated that all are officially invited to a ribbon cutting for East Village to take place on June 23, 2023 at 2:30 p.m.
Mayor Kinslow gave an update on the sidewalk project; there was discussion about the landscaping around the flagpoles by City Hall.
Adiournment
Motion was made by Mr. Terry, seconded by Mr. Rainwater to adjourn and the meeting was adjourned at 10:42 p.m.

RNN Test Drive: 2023 Volkswagen Taos SEL

A new series from the mind that brought you a cleverly written April Fools sports article about a Dome

There is a sea of Subcompact Sport Utility Vehicles. From American manufacturers to South Korean manufactures everywhere you turn there seems to be a new crossover SUV based on what is a sedan platform. Just how does Hyundai and KIA keep coming up with different variations for someone to put a Salt Life sticker on is just mind boggling. Originally the Taos was placed in the Volkswagen lineup to be a replacement for the Golf, but how do you replace the little nimble hatchback that set the bar for performance hatchbacks with the Rabbit GTI? Now it is seen as the entry level of the VW SUV lineup that includes the Tiguan, Atlas Cross Sport, Atlas, and the all-electric iD-4. What makes the Volkswagen Taos different, well until I get behind the wheel of one of the others I will never know. But! I did get the chance to drive the Taos for a bit and this is what I discovered.

The Taos is roomy. While it is based on the same underpinnings of the Volkswagen Jetta the space within the subcompact SUV was plenty. Interior layout on the VW is on par with other VW’s in the lineup. An all digital dash has a great layout with a very readable Speedometer and Tachometer. the center section is customizable to either vehicle information or GPS. The infotainment system is Apple and Android compatible for when you want to listen to your Spotify playlist, which is also controllable from the steering wheel. Did I mention the design? Ahh! When car makers line up the dashboard with the door it is absolute visual magic. Take note, look at the dash to door on the 1971-1974 AMC Javelin to see just some wonderful design. The Taos gets this perfect as well and I am here for it.

Space for groceries. I want these reviews to be something realistic for the consumer so we took the Taos to Sam’s Club for a grocery trip. The back held 6 cases of water, and other groceries quite nicely as you can see in the photo below. The trunk area seems as deep as either of my personal Jettas but the added height of essentially being a cooler looking station wagon definitely helps. Space in the back seat is also improved on this VW when compared to my Jetta as well. While cramped slightly in my personal car, there was more room in the back seat for my son’s 5’11” 245lbs frame.

Performance and Fuel Economy. While VW may never get the chance to bring the hyper-efficient Diesel back to the U.S. The work VW is doing to make their smaller engines reach the 40 mpg range is admirable. While I wish the Taos had the Turbocharged 2.0 liter Inline-4 the Turbocharged 1.5 Liter the whole line comes with averaged 34 mpg during the test. I must disclose my driving style will differ from someone else. I like to try and maximize fuel economy unless it is in my Jetta GLI and then that becomes a different story. Getting on highways is similar to the performance of the last generation Diesels VW offered, you will hit highway speed by the end of the ramp but it is for sure not put you back in the seat fast. Which is perfectly fine for this 5 seat family mover.

Handling wise it is very similar to my non-GLI Jetta, just taller. The ride is incredibly smooth and quiet. Let’s discuss the platform sharing that Volkswagen has mastered since the the original Type 1 Beetle, that spurned the the Type 2 Bus and a plethora of other Volkswagens in the 50’s-70’s. Maybe that’s what sets this Taos apart from the others in it’s class. 75 years of innovation in brand and platform sharing amongst it’s stablemates at Audi and Porsche.

What does the Taos come with. Price as tested was $37,730.00. The SEL is the top of the line package for the VW lineup. The 1.5 Turbo is matted to a 7-speed DSG Automatic with 4MOTION. The headlights are LED that are probably the one thing I got overly excited about. They are adaptive and will turn with the steering wheel to provide lighting to the inside of the turn. So why did I get excited? Honestly, getting to see technology Volkswagen Auto Group pioneered through racing Le Mans and rally with the LED headlights, Dual Clutch Automatic, and their all-wheel drive system is something that is just neat.

There is a long list of things included on the Taos for comfort that is becoming more standard. A panoramic sliding and tilting sunroof is very large and great for those clear summer night drives to look at the stars, well maybe not so much the drivers, but the passengers will for sure enjoy it. Dual-Zone climate controls dubbed Climatronic. A heated steering wheel along with heated and ventilated seats. USB charging ports front and rear, with wireless charging just under the climate controls. Ambient lighting inside the Taos is adjustable to a multitude of different colors. The IQ.DRIVE system is very responsive and if you have not driven a vehicle with a similar system it does take a minute to figure out the nuances of it. For example, lane assist will give you force feedback if you do not turn on the turn signal migrating into a center turn lane before you cross the line. Backing out of my driveway that is at a slight slope to the road, the VW came to a complete forced stop to avoid a perceived collision. The adaptive cruise control is a great addition on those trips up I49 to Northwest Arkansas for when you hit the hills at Chester and the Tunnel where trucks slow way down and drivers drop 15 mph to go through the Tunnel.

Would I purchase a Taos? 100% From the drivability and the room it is a slam-dunk for a small family. Stop in at your local Volkswagen dealer, as long as it is Bill White Volkswagen, to test drive the Taos for yourself.