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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.

Bulldog Days of Summer

It has been a whirlwind of Team Camps, 7 on 7 Tournaments, and College Camps for the Greenwood Bulldogs

As the Greenwood Bulldog football team is in their AAA Dead Period the action was heating up for the ‘Dogs across several facets.

Team Camps

Earlier in the month Resident News Network detailed the teams that participated in the Greenwood Football team camp. Since that article Greenwood participated in a Team Camp at Northside and Russellville. At the Northside camp they went against nearly all the same teams from the first camp but with the addition of Fort Smith Northside and West Memphis.

Fort Smith Northside is in arguably one of the toughest conferences in the State the 7A Central. With teams like Bryant, Jonesboro, Conway, North Little Rock, Cabot, and the talented upstart Little Rock Southwest. While the Grizzlies start the season with the Battle of Rogers Avenue again Southside, from there it is the gamut facing off against Greenwood and Fayetteville in non-conference and then… their conference run starts. Last year Northside finished 4-7 on the season with a 3-4 conference season.

West Memphis finished 6-5 last season with a close playoff loss to Russellville in the first round of the Class 6A playoffs.

I was not present to give an overview of the Russellville Team Camp

7 on 7

In the late 90’s then Greenwood Head Coach Ronnie Peacock brought a new type of competition to the state of Arkansas with 7 on 7 tournaments. Since then it has taken on a life of it’s own with several schools holding their own 7 on 7 tournaments during the summer. University of Arkansas holds a tournament in conjunction with their Lineman Camp. Last year it brought in teams from neighboring states including the occasionally Nationally ranked East St. Louis Flyers. This year Greenwood competed in three different tournaments in Alma, Russellville, and Siloam Springs.

Greenwood would go 6-0 making it to the Championship game against Fayetteville. A late afternoon storm rolling in cancelled the Championship game with both teams becoming Co-Champions of the Lumber One 7on7 Showcase. The following week it was off to Russellville for the Cyclone 7on7. Greenwood would once again repeat the feat of the week before and go on to the Championship game and win the Championship going 7-0 on the day. Three days later the Bulldogs would take the trip to NWA to Siloam Springs to play in the Stateline Shootout. Greenwood would drop one game in pool play to 2020 season opening opponent Muskogee. In bracket play the Bulldogs man handled Gentry in the first round. Then taking care of 7A West teams Springdale and Bentonville West to make it to the Championship. Siloam would stun the 7on7 participants beating Number 1 seed and defending Stateline Shootout Champion Muskogee. In the championship game it saw Greenwood vs the Bruins of Bartlesville. Touchdown passes to L.J. Robins and Isaiah Arrington and great defensive play from Arrington, Grant Karnes, Kaylor Jasna, and Junior DeLeon was to much for Bartlesville to overcome. Bulldogs win 30-6 winning their 3rd 7on7 of the summer and finishing 22-1 in all tournaments.

College Camps

Several Bulldogs hit the road this summer when the schedule of other sports and football allowed. The coaches took several players to the TCU Mega Camp. Camping from coast to coast the Bulldogs made an impression where ever they landed. Seniors L.J. Robins, Eli Whitaker, Jack Edwards, Riley White, Josh Allen, and Kaleb Garner. With Juniors and Sophomores Cash Archer, Isaiah Arrington, Ashton Stein, Kane Archer, Cody Taylor, Akira Fujibayashi, Landon Billy, Sullivan Shoppach, and Wesley Raggio visited or took part in camps at the following universities:

  • Arkansas
  • TCU – Mega Camp with several other universities in attendance
  • Oklahoma
  • Nebraska
  • Kansas State
  • Missouri
  • Southern California
  • Tennessee
  • Georgia
  • Florida State
  • Ole Miss
  • West Virginia – Cody Taylor won the OL Blue Collar Award
  • Virginia Tech – Cody Taylor earned an offer
  • Vanderbilt – Cody Taylor earned an offer
  • Arkansas State
  • Navy
  • Central Arkansas
  • Henderson State – LJ Robins would get fastest 40 time, Wesley Raggio fastest Pro-Shuttle
  • Lyon

(Author note, if I missed a student athlete or camp let me know on Facebook @ Ross Fujibayashi)

With the dead period to end July 9th and FasDogs to start on July 10th the Bulldogs will be back in full swing with just two more 7on7 and Lineman camps left on the schedule before Fall Practice starts.

I would like to also take this section and send our condolences to the communities of White Hall and Mountain Home after the untimely passing of Coach and Razorback great Ryan Mallett.

Truth in the Crosshairs

It’s like one of those dreams, you’re in a panic, late for the school bus–yet it’s Sunday and you’re 48. You waken to a feeling of confusion, what does this mean? I had that happen to me this week, except it wasn’t the school bus I was missing. It was truth.

Sounds strange doesn’t it? Let me explain.

I was visiting with one of our advertisers in the Waldron area, who was sharing that the “corporate daily,” had notified them they would no longer service subscribers. My response without really thinking was, “wow, they abandoned Waldron?” His response, “no, we abandoned them.” We finished our business, but the conversation was something I kept replaying in my head.

We all know the day is coming. It’s inevitable, a shift to digital delivery. I get it. The generation of folks who like a newspaper in their hand is shrinking. But, what happens next is what concerns me.

Legitimate. News Sources. Truth…it’s in the crosshairs. What does that mean? It means, if you aren’t concerned, you should be. No, this isn’t a doomsday speech. But, little by little you are seeing the journalists, the fact finders, the bridges between government and the people, abandoned for social media, community groups and blogs.

What’s the big deal you say? That’s what is convenient. I agree 110%. It is convenient. That is why it is imperative for news organizations to provide online and web-based news options. Here’s the caveat, however, who supports that free news you read online? Merchants? Maybe a few here and there. So then, how do paid employees, using costly web services, continue to provide a viable resource–truth in reporting?

I can’t answer that. I think that’s the “I’m late for the bus feeling.” Will the people be “abandoned?” That’s a real possibility.

When I say this, I mean it with the utmost respect. Community groups, blogs, etc., they are fun to engage in. But when it comes down to it, moderators and admins aren’t most likely taking the time to ensure that information that is published is factual. They are not going to send FOIA requests when a government official is in question. They are not going to read through a fatality report and decide what’s need to know and what will further harm an already devastated family. You cannot be assured that what you read is anything more than opinion.

Furthermore, with the closure of reputable newspapers, meeting notices, legal notices, notices that inform you, the public, are now just appearing haphazardly in your newsfeed.

We are NOT corporate media, we aren’t driven or influenced by politics. We take personally the responsibility of bridging the informational gap.

The APA’s motto states “Democracy Dies in Darkness.” The financial snuffing out of news agencies is a step into a giant black hole. I want to pause here a moment and say how much I appreciate the Arkansas Press Association’s support in fighting for publications like ours.

Ultimately, it’s up to the public to decide. I respect that, too.

But for the ones this may have struck a chord with, I ask that you support/continue supporting us:
1.) Subscribe to our newspaper
2.) Tell others about us (FREE)
3.) Like/subscribe to our social media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (FREE)
4.) Share our content (FREE)
5.) Support/shop local businesses who support what we do

It is my hope that we are able to continue to find new and improved ways to provide the locally focused, accurate news you’ve come to expect from us.

I would also like to add, that if you have questions, concerns or suggestions, we would LOVE to hear from you! – EMAIL

For now, we renew our commitment and pledge to deliver unbiased, factual news+sports to our coverage area, and to YOU, our readership.

Obituary –Charles Lindsey Whedbee (1929-2023)

Charles Whedbee, a devoted husband, loving father, respected Southern Baptist pastor, and cherished grandfather, passed away peacefully in his home in Dayton, AR, on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at the age of 94. He departed from this world leaving behind an abundance of memories and a profound legacy of faith.

On January 11, 1929, God blessed his parents Samuel Leroy Whedbee and Elouise Whedbee with his birth in Midland, AR. As a young man Charles felt called by the Lord to full time church ministry. While pastoring, he graduated from Southwestern Seminary and dedicated his life to nurturing the spiritual well-being of his congregation and inspiring them with his heartfelt sermons. He pastored and helped grow nine different churches including Fellowship Baptist in Witcherville. He also served many other churches as interim after his retirement.

Charles had a love for missions, preaching the word in Africa, the Philippines, and across the United States. Throughout his ministry, Charles touched countless lives. His words of wisdom provided solace and guidance to many during times of joy and hardship.

Charles was a devoted family man. For 77 years he shared a deep and abiding love for his wife Ivalee and together they created a warm and loving home. Charles is survived by two sons, Tom and wife Betty of Dayton, AR and Barry and wife Terry of Gilmer, TX; and one daughter Pamela Williams and husband Tom of Advance, North Carolina. Charles was not only a beloved father but also a proud grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his 6 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Charles also has one great great grandchild due this month.

He was known for his storytelling and his captivating tales of bygone eras. Charles will forever be remembered for his warm smile, his unwavering faith, and his love for ice cream and Black Angus cows.

Arrangements and cremations are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas. You may leave words of comfort and remembrance for Charles’ family by visiting: www.heritagememorialfh.com.

All those who were touched by his kindness, inspired by his faith, and charmed by his stories are invited to join in remembering him at a memorial service to be held at Fellowship Baptist Church, in Witcherville, AR on Friday, July 21, 2023, at 6:00 pm with visitation after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Fellowship Baptist Church Mission Trip Fund (111 College Road, Huntington, AR 72940) or Gideon Bibles to continue his legacy of sharing Jesus throughout the world.

Help Trout Keep Their Cool This Summer

Randy Zellers Assistant Chief of Communications

The heat wave that held Arkansas in its grip during the last two weeks had many Arkansans heading for the shade and comfort of air-conditioned buildings. The heat can also cause some major changes in the behavior of Arkansas’s fish populations, particularly the trout that inhabit cold-water streams and tailwaters from dams with cold-water discharge. Arkansas’s famous trout tailwaters provide year-round action for anglers and are some of the best opportunities for trout fishing in the entire Southeast. As summer sun continues to bake the land, it also has raised water temperatures enough in some locations to cause concern with avid trout anglers. 

Christy Graham, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Trout Management Program supervisor based in Mountain Home, has worked with the state’s trophy-class trout fisheries for nearly 14 years. During that time, temperature monitoring throughout Arkansas’s famous tailwater fisheries always takes top priority in summer.

“We conduct daily checks of water quality conditions and work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Southwestern Power Administration to address any concerns we have about the amount of water being released,” Graham said.

According to the American Fisheries Society’s “Trout and Char of the World,” most trout species grow best at temperatures between about 53 and 66 degrees. Once water warms too much (78 to 86 degrees, depending upon species) trout can perish from the hostile environment. But it’s not a hard-and-fast rule, as many variables come into play that can drop that critical temperature a bit lower. 

Graham says it’s not just the heat but, more importantly, the amount of oxygen in the water that plays a critical role in fish health during summer.

“Fish size, the length of time the fish has endured the hot water and any sudden rise that can shock the system all come into play as well, and that’s not even counting the added stress that comes from a long fight on an angler’s line,” Graham said. 

According to Graham a key surface water temperature anglers should keep in mind is 68 degrees. At that mark, added stress from long fights can increase mortality substantially. 

“At that point, if you’re still wanting to fish the same waters, you should consider keeping what you catch if it’s legal to do so,” Graham said. “I know there’s a very strong catch-and-release ethic with our avid trout anglers, but there’s nothing wrong with keeping a few fish occasionally for a meal. Survival rates from fish that came from 68-degree and warmer water are pretty low, and we do need some harvest of trout to keep the system in balance and increase growth rates of the fish left.”

Graham says the best way to keep an eye on the water temperature is to carry a small pocket thermometer and make periodic checks where you are fishing.

“If you come across that 68-degree threshold, you may want to move upstream to cooler water,” Graham said. “The fishing is likely to be better where the trout are more comfortable and in a feeding mood anyway.”

Even at water temperature ranging 65 to 67 degrees, anglers may consider only fishing during the morning and using heavier gear to get fish in quickly instead of adding undue stress from long fights. 

“Avoid fighting fish to the point of exhaustion and keep the fish in the water as much as possible if you plan to release it,” Graham said. “Even pulling it from the water for pictures can add enough stress to tip the scales and increase the chance of mortality after release.”

Angling is still one of the best ways to beat the summer heat, and the cold water of Arkansas’s trout streams make an ideal setting to enjoy a relaxing day on the water away from the noise of boats and beachgoers. With a few precautions, anglers can enjoy this resource and save the experience for the next generation to enjoy as well.

Financial Focus: Retired? Consider Benefits of Part-Time Work

After spending decades in the workforce, you might look forward to the day you retire. But if you decide, for one reason or another, that you’d like to redefine “retirement” to include part-time work or consulting, you could enjoy exercising your skills and meeting new people. But you can also receive some key financial benefits.
Specifically, bringing in some paychecks in your retirement can help you in these areas:
• You could contribute more to your IRA. During your working years, you may have contributed regularly to an IRA, but once you retired, you might have thought those days were over. But there’s no age limit – if you have any earned income, you can contribute to an IRA and boost the financial resources you have available for retirement.
• You could potentially lower your withdrawal rate. Once you’re retired, you will likely need to rely on your investment portfolio to provide you with some – or maybe most – of your income. Consequently, you’ll need to establish an appropriate withdrawal rate – a percentage of your portfolio that you can take out each year without running the risk of potentially outliving your money. Income from part-time work or consulting may lower your dependency on investment income, thereby reducing your annual withdrawal rate and extending the overall longevity of your investment portfolio.
• You could add to your grandchildren’s 529 plans. When you invest in a 529 education savings plan, the earnings and withdrawals are federally tax-free, provided the money is used for qualified education expenses. As a grandparent, you can contribute to a 529 plan with your grandchildren as beneficiaries. And a 529 plan can be used for more than college – it can fund some programs at trade schools and K-12 expenses in some states. So, by putting some of your earned income to work in a 529 plan, you can help improve your grandchildren’s prospects.
• You could reduce your debts. By the time you reach retirement, you may or may not have retired your mortgage, but you might have other debts on your books. If you can apply some of your earned income to these debts, you can improve your cash flow and possibly avoid dipping into your retirement accounts for short-term needs.
Of course, you’ll also have to consider some issues if you end up working in retirement, particularly if you bring in a sizable amount of money. For example, if you’re earning income and collecting Social Security before you reach your “full” retirement age – which is likely between 66 and 67 – your monthly benefits will be reduced. (However, these “lost” benefits will be restored once you do reach your full retirement age.) Also, the added income could push you into a higher tax bracket or even cause you to pay the Medicare premium surcharge or the 3.8%
surtax on net investment income if your income reaches certain levels. So, before embarking on any employment that may yield a large additional income, consult with your tax advisor.
Overall, though, the financial benefits of part-time employment income during your retirement years may be worth it – so give some thought to “unretiring.”
This article is provided by
Jeffrey O’Neal, Financial Advisor
Edward Jones
20 N Express St, Paris, AR 72855
479-963-1321
jeffrey.o’neal@edwardjones.com
edwardjones.com/jeffrey-o’neal
Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Lavaca City Council Meets in Regular Session

The City Council of the City of Lavaca met for a regular monthly meeting Monday June 12, 2023, at City Hall in Lavaca. Board members present were Mayor Hugh Hardgrave; Aldermen Mike Ray, Gerald Schaefer, Rick Edgerton, Lorie Robertson, and Benny Hunter; City Attorney John Verkamp; and Recorder Shelly Hockaday. Gerald Schaefer was absent. Visitors present were Toby Beavers, Dwayne Wallace, Randy Toon, Chris White, Barry McCormick, Brandon Fillinger, and Michael Plaster.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 P. M. Mike Ray led the Pledge of Allegiance and Mayor Hardgrave said the prayer.
The Council approved the minutes of the May regular meeting. Rick Edgerton made a motion to approve the minutes and Mike Ray seconded the motion. Al present voted in favor except Dale Teague. Teague abstained from the vote. Motion passed.
Council members reviewed the report from the Police Dept. The Department answered 582 calls in May. LPD issued 3tickets and 24 warnings. There were 4 arrests made in the month of May.
Council members reviewed the report from the Fire Dept. They responded to 17 first responder calls, 1 tree down across power line, and 1 structure fire.
Barry McCormick with Hawkins Weir Engineers presented the bid tabulation on the pump station backup generator project. There were 3 plan holders but the only bid received was from Associated Building & Development Corp. Total Bid schedule 1 for 7 sites was $408,531.00 with deductive alternative 1for $105,385.00, deductive alternative 2 for $48,743.00, deductive alternative 3 for $41,250.00. Mike Ray made a motion to award the bid to Associated Building a n d Development Corp. for the amount oft h e total lump sum bid less the first deductive alternative which would reduce the contract amount to be awarded to $303,146.00. Lorie Robertson seconded the motion and all others voted in favor. Motion passed.
Council members reviewed a request for variance from sewer connection for a new construction at 412 Hwy 253 NE. This property si not road frontage property and only has an access from the Highway for a driveway to the property. The sewer line from the main to the house would be about 330 feet. Rick Edgerton made a motion to approve the variance for this property and Mike Ray seconded the motion. Al voted in favor. Motion passed. Council members considered a recommendation on a rezoning request for property in the 100 block of W. Houston Street from the Planning Commission. After much discussion about the Voluntary Fire Tax Mike Ray made a motion to reject the recommendation and send ti back to the planning commission for further review. Dale Teague seconded the motion and all voted in agreement. Motion passed and will go back to the planning commission for review.
Council members heard from Brandon Fillinger with Cards Recycling about a proposed 5% increase. This would increase the contract per household from $10.93 to $11.48 per month. The council requested more specific information as to why this increase was necessary specific to Lavaca. Dale Teague made a motion to table this until the requested information was received. Rick Edgerton seconded the motion and all voted in favor. Motion passed.
Council members reviewed proposed resolution 2023-04 endorsing the continuation of the Sebastian County 1% Sales Tax. This will be voted on August 8, 2023 in a special election. This si a vital revenue source for the City of Lavaca and the council urged everyone to vote for this continuation in August. Lorie Robertson made a motion to approve the resolution. Dale Teague seconded the motion and all voted in favor. Motion Passed.
Rick Edgerton made a motion to pay the bills for the month of June. Dale Teague seconded the motion and all voted in favor. Motion Passed.
Dale Teague made a motion to adjourn. Mike Ray seconded the motion. All voted in favor.

They Will Come: Solar Eclipse Expected to Bring Influx of Travelers to Paris & Surrounding Areas

PARIS- Get ready. It’s coming.

People from across the United States will travel to Arkansas next spring to get a good view of the solar eclipse that is predicted to occur on April 8, 2024. Arkansas, specifically, Western Arkansas will be a prime location to view the eclipse. Businesses, residents, and other organizations are planning now for a significant influx of travelers to Logan County and the surrounding areas.

According to the website, eclipse2024.org, “The total solar eclipse visits Arkansas on April 8, 2024 beginning at 1:45 pm CDT with the final exit of the Moon’s shadow from the state at 2:00 pm CDT. Through Arkansas, the speed of the Moon’s shadow will accelerate from about 1700 miles per hour to about 1850 miles per hour.”

For a computer simulation on what we can expect to see on the day of the eclipse, click on this link to see the path and phases of the eclipse that is expected on April 8, 2024 in Paris: Paris, AR – 2023 eclipse simulator | eclipse2024.org

Referred to by some as “The Great North American Eclipse”, the Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun and will briefly block the light of the Sun. The maximum eclipse, or total blockage of the Sun’s light, is expected to occur over Mexico. When it occurs, it will be the first total eclipse over the country of Mexico since 1979. It will also be the only total solar eclipse over North America in this century and will be the last until 2045.

The unknown variable will be cloud cover during the spring month of April. Unpredictable cloud cover and rain could be a factor. In Canada and the Northern United States, snow fall is still a possibility in April, so, weather will certainly be the wild card leading up to this big astrophysical event.

A migration of viewers is expected to the local area and will create a need for lodging, parking areas for cars and recreational vehicles, as well as a possible boost to the local economies as travelers will frequent stores, gas stations, restaurants, etc. Certainly, more will become clearer in the expected impact on the towns of Western Arkansas as time draws nearer.

RNN will bring you updated stories on this once in a lifetime event throughout the next several months leading up to the big day. In the meantime, you may want to brush up on your science and your music, i.e., Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart”…just saying!