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Hogs Name New Assistant Softball Coach with OU Ties

Resident News Network
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Hogs Name New Assistant Softball Coach with OU Ties

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas softball head coach Courtney Deifel named DJ Gasso the program’s newest assistant coach Friday. Gasso will serve as the program’s primary hitting coach.  

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome DJ, his wife Grace, and their son Parker to Fayetteville and the Razorback softball family,” said Deifel. “DJ brings an incredible understanding of mental preparation and offensive strategy, along with an infectious passion for the game that our players will love. He has learned from and worked alongside some incredible coaches in his career. He will deliver an aggressive and exciting style of Razorback softball that I can’t wait to see in action.” 

Gasso just completed his third season as the hitting coach for the Utah Utes in 2023. Since being hired as an assistant coach in June 2020, Gasso has navigated Utah’s offense to unparalleled success, a Pac-12 Tournament Championship and a Women’s College World Series appearance in 2023 – the program’s first WCWS appearance since 1994. Gasso was promoted to associate head coach in December 2022.  

Following the 2023 campaign, Gasso was part of a staff that earned ATEC/NFCA Pacific Region Coaching Staff of the Year along with being recognized as D1Softball’s National Coaching Staff of the Year.  

“My family and I are thrilled to be part of the Razorback family. Coach Deifel and her staff have been so welcoming, and I cannot wait to get started with this team,” said Gasso. “I want to thank Coach Amy Hogue for taking a chance on me and giving me the opportunity to live out my dream as a coach. The memories and relationships built at Utah will forever hold a special place in my heart. To be representing the great state of Arkansas in front of the best fans in the country will be an incredible honor. I am extremely excited to be in Fayetteville and get to work.” 

During his three-year stint at Utah, 11 Utah hitters garnered NFCA All-Region status while one clinched NFCA All-America accolades.  

Under Gasso’s tutelage in 2023, the Utes increased their batting average by nearly 40 points compared to their mark in 2022 and finished 15th nationally in scoring (6.05). The Utes seized single-season program records in runs (351), RBIs (316), slugging percentage (.483), doubles (84) and steals (99). Utah also tied for fifth nationally in batting average (.327) and blasted the program’s most home runs (47) since 2006.  

Gasso continued to make strides with Utah’s offense in 2022, helping the team improve its batting average by 22 points to .289 compared to its .267 average in 2021. Four hitters were named to the All-Pac-12 team, three named to NFCA All-Region squads and one claimed NFCA All-American status.  

Making an immediate impact on the Utah program in his first season in 2021, the Utes hit 46 home runs, the most by a Utah team since 2012, and scored 237 runs, their most since 2017. 

A native of Norman, Okla., Gasso earned his bachelor’s degree in communication from Bradley University in 2017 where he spent two seasons as a standout baseball player after one year at Hutchinson Community College.  

Gasso completed his collegiate baseball career at Central Oklahoma in 2018, slashing .303/.395/.364 as a senior. Beginning his postgraduate work at Central Oklahoma, Gasso finished his master’s degree in intercollegiate athletics administration at the University of Oklahoma while serving as a graduate manager for Oklahoma softball from 2018-19.  

A graduate of Norman North High School, Gasso is the son of Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso and the brother of Oklahoma assistant coach JT Gasso. His father, Jim Gasso, is the head softball coach at MId-America Christian University in Oklahoma City.  

DJ and his wife Grace have a son, Parker.  

For schedule updates and other news, go to ArkansasRazorbacks.com, or follow @RazorbackSB on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. 

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

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

   

“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

Tammy Teague
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“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

By Sheri Hopkins, Lifestyle Contributor

Hello everyone! The dog days of summer are here. Hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July.

If I repeat my story, I’m sorry. Just read them and act like it’s the first time you heard it. I’m sure I’ve told y’all all the crazy sayings my mom would say as I was growing up. Not just my mom, but all the moms and grandmas. My mom told me not to hang upside down on the monkey bars, I would turn my liver over. Let me add, she was serious. The summer before third grade, daddy and momma bought us a swingset and got it all put together and on the end was a monkey bar. Of course, in mom fashion, she told us not to hang upside down on the monkey bar or we would turn our liver over. Her and dad took off with the box to take them to the burner at the sawmill (which was in the backyard of our house). Guess what I did? Yep, I climbed on that monkey bar to try to turn my liver over and was hanging from my knees and fell off and broke my arm. So, don’t worry about turning your liver over.

She also said not to spin in circles, that would turn your liver over. Also, you have to wait 30 minutes to swim after you eat or you will get leg cramps and drown. I believed this one because I wasn’t fond of water. I sure didn’t want to get leg cramps and drown. The biggest problem was trying not to eat every 30 minutes so I could get in the water.

Don’t sit too close to the TV or you would go blind. So, me and my sister would scoot back, we didn’t want to ho blind. But, if you eat carrots, it will help you see better. So, I guess if you set too close to the TV, you could munch on a carrot to counteract the sitting too close.

Do not pick up frogs, because if they pee on you, you will get warts on your hands. We didn’t listen to that either. I sure would scrub my hands though, because those frogs always peed on me. I sure didn’t want to get warts on my hands.

Don’t step on a crack or you will break your mother’s back. That one traumatized me so bad, to this day I can’t hardly step on a crack. I could envision my poor momma with a broke back, all crippled up because I stepped on a crack.

One of my favorites was don’t eat any junk food before supper, you will ruin your supper and won’t eat. I will be 60 in July and I have never ruined a meal by having a snack beforehand.

I hear my mom’s words coming out of my mouth so much. I wish you could have seen Ella’s face when I told her not to hang upside down or spin circles, she would turn her liver over. She thought I was crazy. I remember the old saying, ”scream bloody murder.” One day we were shopping and I told her if anyone tried to grab her to scream bloody murder. As innocent as could be, she said, ”Nana why would I yell out ’bloody murder’?” I laughed so hard, she had no clue that I meant just to scream loud. She thought I wanted her to yell the words ”bloody murder.”

Good times, and good memories.

This week’s recipe comes from my friend Diana Hattabaugh and she said it is delicious. I haven’t had the chance to try it yet, but I’m going to.

CHOCOLATE NUTTER BUTTER ICEBOX CAKE
1 lb. package of Nutter Butter Cookies
2 small boxes of chocolate cook and serve pudding, has to be cook and serve.
4 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 8 oz. tub of Cool Whip
1/4 cup peanut butter
Combine pudding mixes, milk, sugar and vanilla in a medium saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once softly boiling remove from the heat. Spoon 1/3 of the pudding into the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish. Add a single layer of the Nutter Butter cookies on top of it. Pour another 1/3 of the pudding over the cookies then add another single layer of the cookies, top with the remaining pudding and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes then refrigerate until completely chilled. Top with Cool Whip. Melt the peanut butter for 20-30 seconds in the microwave and stir until then enough to pour and drizzle over the Cool Whip and serve. I would probably crush a few of the cookies and sprinkle on top. Keep in the refrigerator. If you want to make a 9×13 size, just double the recipe. The warm pudding softens the cookies. Enjoy!

Things To Consider When Restoring an Old Rocking Chair

Resident News Network
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Things To Consider When Restoring an Old Rocking Chair

Restoring an old piece of furniture is a fun, fulfilling pastime with challenges. Even if you’re up for the task, ensuring you learn these things to consider when restoring an old rocking chair first can make the process less stressful and more fun. We will outline guidelines on how to succeed in your restoration project while maintaining the chair’s longevity.

Identify the Chair’s Era and Style

An essential step is identifying your rocking chair’s era, style, or origin. Knowing this information improves your search for appropriate materials and techniques that don’t compromise its historical integrity or decrease its value. Examine the material, including fabric coverings, wood carvings, joint construction, and other design elements to determine the chair’s age and style.

Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies

Before grabbing any tools, research what supplies to buy for your project. Typical items like sandpaper, woodworking tools, wood glue, and clamps are commonly used for restoration projects. So, ensure you have the right items for a smooth refurbishing project. Also, consider whether you need new cushions, paint, varnish, or replacement parts like spindles, legs, or arms.

Examine the Furniture’s Structure and Stability

Carefully inspect your rocking chair’s stability. Pay attention to any broken or cracked joints on the chair, and especially look for loose or missing screws. Minor repairs might suffice, but looking at the chair thoroughly helps determine if the chair needs a complete reconstruction. Prioritize safety and structural integrity!

Preserve Original Design Features

Preserve the essential design elements of the chair, such as carving and paint patterns. You preserve the chair’s character and historical value by maintaining the original design features. Try to keep as much of the original detail as possible so the chair retains its origins, and its era is easily recognizable.

Refinishing and Painting

Be mindful of refinishing and painting. Restorers often debate between refinishing the whole piece or keeping the original patina. It’s best to consult a furniture restoration expert for advice on retaining the furniture’s identity while refinishing and painting it. Ensure the paint and refinishing styles are in tune with the original designs.

Restoring old rocking chairs adds a fresher style to a timeless piece. Feel accomplished restoring an old rocking chair, and remember these considerations if you ever need a reason not to change something drastically. To help maintain the life of your restored piece, we suggest following these tips for maintaining a swivel rocking chair to keep it rocking smoothly for years to come. Trust us—an old chair might seem pleasant to admire, but restoring it to its former glory is more fun. You’ll enjoy it more when you can use it in your home.

AGFC adds new crop of Florida bass to Lake Ouachita 

Tammy Teague
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AGFC adds new crop of Florida bass to Lake Ouachita 

Fisheries biologists and staff from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Andrew Hulsey State Fish Hatchery in Hot Springs recently added a boost to Lake Ouachita’s largemouth bass genetics by stocking more than 150,000 Florida bass fingerlings to the lake in two locations. 

Roughly 100,000 Florida bass fingerlings were stocked directly to the Rabbittail area on the lake’s north shore by boats to deposit them in prime nursery cover that will enable the fish to have an increased chance at survival. An additional 52,000 fingerlings were placed in the Lake Ouachita nursery pond for about four weeks to grow and eat a supply of fathead minnows before release into the lake via an underground pipe into the west end of the lake. 

Florida bass are a species of black bass that have increased potential to reach trophy sizes. Ultimately, growth rates in both northern largemouths and Florida bass are dependent on the right nutrients, water conditions and growing season length, but Florida bass trend toward a larger size potential given enough time.

This is not the first stocking of Florida bass into Lake Ouachita. According to the current Lake Ouachita Management Plan a pilot study to introduce Florida bass into the lake was initiated in 2007. Fingerlings were stocked at a rate of 100 fingerlings per lake surface acre for eight consecutive years. Evaluations following this pilot study indicated a significant increase in the number of bass with Florida bass genetics, prompting a continuation of the project on an every-other-year basis, alternating Florida stockings between Lake Ouachita, and DeGray Lake in Arkadelphia, which also showed promising results from a similar pilot project.

Sean Lusk, AGFC staff biologist, says the goal of these stockings is not to add more fish to Lake Ouachita, but to increase growth potential by adding Florida bass genetics to the existing population.

“Lake Ouachita produces plenty of bass on its own and these fingerlings will essentially replace some that would have been produced through this year’s spawn,” Lusk said. “Sure, an angler may catch one of these fish if it reaches trophy size, but the real goal is for these fish to reproduce and increase the Florida genetics in the lake.”   

During the pilot project, stockings were conducted at Rabbittail and Buckville on the north side of the lake. Once the project was expanded, biologists added the nursery pond at the west end of the lake to provide another point for Florida largemouth introductions.  

Rabbittail and the nursery pond received stockings in 2021, and they will again this year. 

This is all being done to provide anglers an increased opportunity to someday catch a trophy-size bass.

Brett Hobbs, AGFC regional fisheries supervisor in Hot Springs, said the fingerlings from the pond will see some advantage over those stocked at Rabbittail. Aside from a lack of predators, these bass were able to feed heavily before their addition.

“The nursery pond was stocked with fathead minnows earlier this year,” Hobbs said. “They have been allowed to spawn to provide an abundance of forage for the young bass. The bass fingerlings consumed all the minnows and we opened the pond gate that flows directly into the lake.”

Hobbs says the fingerlings in the nursery pond averaged 3½ inches when released, giving them a jump start on survival. 

Visit www.agfc.com/en/fishing/sportfish/black-bassfor more information on bass management in Arkansas. Visit the AGFC Fisheries Division Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AGFCFisheriesDivision.

WMA Deer Permit Hunt applications available July 1-31 

Tammy Teague
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WMA Deer Permit Hunt applications available July 1-31 

Deer hunters shooting for some of Arkansas’s best public land opportunities will have the full month of July to apply for one of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Wildlife Management Area Deer Permit hunts. Applications for these hunts are available from 8 a.m. July 1 until midnight July 31 through the AGFC’s licensing system at www.agfc.com.

Hunting deer on privately owned land and many WMAs throughout the state requires only a hunting license with big-game privileges, but many of the AGFC’s most popular areas can become crowded or overhunted without special restrictions. On many of the most popular areas, the AGFC conducts special draw hunts to maintain healthy deer herds and high-quality hunting experiences.

WMA Deer Hunt Permit applications are available for $5 per application type. Successful  applicants receive their permit without additional fees. Each hunter may submit one application for each type of permit hunt: youth hunt, archery, muzzleloader and modern gun. Mobility-impaired individuals also may apply for special mobility-impaired hunts through the permit system. Hunters must be at least 6 years old by the beginning of the hunt, and hunters applying for youth hunts must be at least 6, but no older than 15, the day the hunt begins.

To apply for a youth hunt, the youth hunter must be logged in under his or her own Customer ID in the licensing system. Youth hunts do not appear as an option to choose in the licensing system for any hunters older than 16.

Hunters applying for regular modern gun and muzzleloader hunts may do so as individuals or they may apply as a group of up to four, using the AGFC’s party hunt system. To apply as a group, the party hunt leader applies normally. Once the permit application is completed and paid for, he or she will receive a party hunt code listed underneath the application line on their updated hunting license via email. They may then share that code with up to three other individuals. The rest of the party will then apply, and respond “yes” when asked if they are members of a party hunt. They may then enter the code and continue with their application and payment. Applying as a party does not increase the chances of each individual being drawn.  

Click here to view a list of available permit hunts

Click here to apply for a WMA deer permit hunt

ADEM issues extreme heat safety tips 

Tammy Teague
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ADEM issues extreme heat safety tips 

With dangerously high temperatures expected in the coming weeks, the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) urges Arkansans to take precautions to reduce the risk of heat overexposure.

Find cooling centers in your area: Cooling Centers – Arkansas Governor – Sarah Huckabee Sanders

ADEM, a division of the Arkansas Department of Public Safety, recommends getting educated on watches and warnings.  
Excessive Heat Watch
Forecasters expect a prolonged period (2 to 3 days) of exceedingly hot and humid weather conditions. 
Heat Advisory
Issued within 12 hours before dangerous heat conditions are expected. Daytime heat indices of 100ºF–104ºF for two or more hours. The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in with air temperature.
Excessive Heat Warning
Daytime heat indices of greater than or equal to 105°F for two or more hours.

Extreme heat can be very dangerous – even life-threatening – if people do not take precautions to maintain a normal body temperature. Some individuals are at a greater risk of heat overexposure than others, such as children, the elderly and those who are disabled or have medical conditions. No one is immune, however. It’s important to monitor yourself and others for signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

Heat-related Illnesses include:
HEAT CRAMPS are muscular pains and spasms caused by heavy sweating that usually occur in the legs or abdomen. Get the affected person to rest in a comfortable position in a cooler place. Give them water or fluids with electrolytes to help them rehydrate.
HEAT EXHAUSTION occurs when people overexert themselves in a warm, humid place and often affects those doing strenuous work in hot weather. Body fluids are lost through heavy sweating and blood flow to the skin increases, which causes the blood flow to vital organs to decrease. This results in a form of mild shock. 

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include skin that is cool, moist, pale or flushed, nausea, dizziness, headache, weakness and/or exhaustion. 

Treat it by helping the affected person rest in a comfortable position in a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths (such as towels or sheets). If the person is conscious, give them half a glass of cool water or fluids with electrolytes every 15 minutes, making sure that they drink slowly. Watch them carefully for changes in their condition and call 9-1-1 if it doesn’t improve.
HEAT STROKE is the most serious heat emergency and is life-threatening. It develops when systems in the body begin to stop functioning due to extreme heat. Heat stroke may cause brain damage or death if the body is not cooled quickly.  

Symptoms include extremely high body temperature, hot and red skin (dry or moist), loss of consciousness, changes in level of responsiveness rapid and weak pulse, rapid and shallow breathing, vomiting, confusion and/or seizures. Someone suffering from heat stroke needs immediate assistance. Call 9-1-1 and move the person to a cooler place. Immerse the individual in a cool bath, wrap in cold wet sheets, or cover the person in bags of ice if possible.

During times of extreme heat, it is important to: 
— Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. 

— Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
— Find air conditioning, if possible. 
— Check on family members and neighbors – especially those without air conditioning.
— Avoid strenuous activities.
— Watch for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness (such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke).
— Wear light-colored, loose-fitting and lightweight clothing.
— If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours.

— Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. 

— Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
— Drink plenty of water even if you aren’t thirsty. (Avoid drinks containing alcohol and high amounts of sugar and caffeine.) Make sure that pets have access to water.
— Eat regular meals that are well balanced and light.
— Never leave people or pets in a closed car, even with the windows cracked open. 

For more information from FEMA about managing extreme heat: Extreme Heat (fema.gov)

Timepiece: Hot Springs Underground

Tammy Teague
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Timepiece: Hot Springs Underground

By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Much of Arkansas history revolves around Hot Springs. Before European settlers ever arrived in America, natives were bathing in the magical warm waters that flowed down the steep slopes along what is now Bathhouse Row. Legends state that Hernando de Sota and other early Spanish explorers visited the site in search of the fountain of youth but there is no clear evidence those events occurred. It is known that William Dunbar, in an expedition coinciding with Lewis and Clarks exploration, conducted a four-week study of the springs during the Christmas season of 1804.

Attracted to the area, settlers constructed homes, businesses, and bath houses along the stream flowing through the middle of the town. Crossed by numerous footpaths and small bridges, water collecting in Hot Spring creek flowed south carrying effluent of every type down-stream to the Ouachita River.

The Arlington, beautiful bath houses, and even a building used as a back-drop to a superman movie now adorn the main streets of Hot Springs but the stream is nowhere to be found- that is unless you are one of the brave souls that will venture into the world beneath the streets.

Introduced to the tunnels during a trip with the USGS several years ago, I was intrigued to discover the world that existed just feet beneath the surface and extended for great distances through the city. Going into the darkness was like entering a large dark sauna. Huge vaulted columns of native rock formed arches up to twelve-foot high and fourteen foot wide. The walls of novaculite and granite are three foot thick. Water slurped through the bottom of the tunnel, carried downward by gravity to a distant exit. Trudging even short distances in the 115 degree, 100 per-cent humidity atmosphere will leave one longing for the surface above.

The tunnel construction began in 1884 directly in front of Bathhouse Row and has been extended over the years. With the city’s association with bootleggers, gamblers, political crooks, and outright criminals, stories concerning the use of the tunnel abound. Many of the building, especially those connected to infamous deeds, constructed escape routes into the tunnels. Historians believe that Al Capone partied at the Southern Club on Central Avenue. The Southern Club site is where Madam Tussauds wax museum is now found. When trouble threatened he would disappear down an entrance way into the tunnel and exit at the Arlington Hotel. The Arlington was one of Capone’s favorite places, one where he leased the entire fourth floor for his entourage. One can still visit the Arlington and the Capone’s room but he wasn’t the only one using the tunnel. With illegal gambling rampant, the police would raid a den only to find the place mysteriously vacated upon their arrival. It is not known how many escape holes existed but openings today exist at the First Presbyterian on Whittington, and entrance on Central avenue and one close to the Hot Spring bus depot.

The tunnels still conduct the important function of draining water from the central part of the city during frequent and heavy rainfall. The walls are still stable for the most part and the city maintenance crew surveys them on a regular basis to ensure safety. In recent years, the tunnels themselves have been deemed unsafe and the public is not allowed exploration. As you shop along the main avenues of walk the sidewalks through the National Park, it is hard to envision the world that exist just beneath your feet.

Timepiece: Adam Brown, American Hero

Tammy Teague
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Timepiece: Adam Brown, American Hero

By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Approaching Blakely Dam on Lake Ouachita with a teacher group, Park interpreter Emily Stubblefield pointed to the quite, clear water rippling by our barge. “Directly beneath you lies a memorial to one of America’s heroes,” she explained. CPO Adam Brown, a Navy Seal, an Arkansas native, and an American hero has one of the most unusual monuments in the world, one placed deep beneath the waters recognizing his service to our country. I couldn’t wait to discover more of the remarkable story of his life and there was much to discover. The book Fearless by Eric Blehm, numerous YouTube videos, and a movie describe the life of a true American hero.

Adam grew up in Hot Springs, described as a sweet child with an adventurous streak. He eventually played football at Hot Springs and then attended Arkansas Tech at Russellville. Disappointed in his efforts to play college ball and with his academics, he soon dropped out and took up a much more hazardous sport; alcohol and eventually crystal meth and cocaine. His life became a downward spiral until landing in jail and facing a prison sentence. His lawyer plea bargained him into an opportunity to correct his life through the Teen Challenge organization. Soon after he completed rehab, he met his future wife Kelley, married, and three months later entered boot camp to become a Navy Seal. By 2003, he had managed a five-year mark of drug free, Navy Seal, and a member of the Underwater Demolition (BUD/S) team, a mark accomplished by only a handful of the elite Seals.

Injured in two separate accidents, he lost his right eye and use of his dominant hand but still managed to join the elite Naval Special Warfare Development Group. In 2006, he was assigned duty in northern Afghanistan’s Kunar Valley, a hot spot in the war. Aggressive and a warrior in battle, he had a soft spot for children. On one of his trips home, he asked Kelley to help him find shoes for children in Afghanistan. Her church collected 500 pair and Adam went door to door distributing them to kids.

With his natural adventurous nature, Kelley was concerned about her husband. After one of his deployments, Adam told Kelley, “I am not afraid. God gave me this gift- I don’t feel fear.” Described by his officer as, “a man who leads by example, the first to volunteer for the hard jobs—he leads, mentors, and sets the example for others.” In 2008, Brown was in Iraq, destroying the improvised explosive devices and men who created them. These devices accounted for 70% of the coalition deaths during that time. Their action saved thousands of lives. Adam was awarded a Bronze Star for valor for his actions.

On March 17, 2010, the 36 year-old Adam and his teammates were again in battle- this time in Afghanistan against hard-core entrenched Taliban. Adams group were sent into a special operations mission to eliminate or apprehend a Taliban leader responsible for the deaths of numerous allied soldiers. The mission was in a highly fortified region in the Hindu Kush mountains. Trapped in what was described as a hornet’s nest of the enemy, Adam’s unit was being fired at from every direction. Penned down by enemy fire, they quickly realized someone had to reposition themselves in order for them to survive. Adam yelled, “I got it,” even though it meant exposing himself to enemy fire. Adam was shot and killed while defending his comrades!

Posthumously he was awarded the Silver Star to go with his Bronze Star, his Combat V for Valor, and a Purple Heart.

The memorial, consisting of laser-etched, black granite was placed near Blakely Dam as a tribute to Adam Brown. “In Memory Of A Hero, CPO Adam Lee Brown/”Fearless Rock” Dedicated to the memory and life of Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) & Hot Springs, Arkansas native/who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our Nation in the mountains of Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom on 3/17/2010/proud son devoted husband loving father true warrior FEARLESS/John 15:13/This memorial was dedicated by Arkansas Scuba Divers & Friends to honor Adam and other members of the Special Operation community who have paid the ultimate price for our Freedom.”

Practice sun safety to enjoy summer fun and avoid sunburn, skin cancer

Tammy Teague
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Practice sun safety to enjoy summer fun and avoid sunburn, skin cancer

By Rebekah Hall 
U of A System Division of Agriculture 

As summer temperatures heat up and Arkansans enjoy the Natural State’s many hiking trails, swimming holes and state parks, it’s important to practice sun safety by using and reapplying sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.  

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it’s the biggest long-term risk of sun exposure. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 5 million adults are treated for skin cancer each year.  

To avoid sunburn and skin cancer, Bryan Mader, extension assistant professor and health specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said it’s important to protect skin against both UV-A and UV-B rays. Both types of ultraviolet rays damage skin and cause skin cancer, though UV-B rays have more energy and are a more dangerous type of UV light.  

Picking the right protection 

Mader said there are two main types of sunscreens. Broad spectrum sunscreen provides protection against both UV-A and UV-B rays, while higher value SPF sunscreens provide protection against sunburn caused by UV-B radiation. The SPF value, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates a sunscreen’s UV-B protection.  

“There is a popular misconception that SPF relates to time of solar exposure,” Mader said. “However, SPF is not directly related to the time of solar exposure but rather the amount of solar exposure. Since the strongest UV rays occur in the middle of the day, as compared to early morning or early evening hours, your risk of sun exposure, and therefore sunburn, is higher at midday — usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.”  

Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outside, and one should use enough to cover the entire face and body, including the ears, hands, tops of the feet and along the hairline.  

Mader said sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours and more frequently if the user is swimming or sweating. Check the bottle of sunscreen for specific directions on when to reapply.  

Like other products, sunscreens have an expiration date, and it’s important to check this before applying. “Sunscreen that has expired does become less effective and may not protect you from UV rays, depending on sun exposure time,” Mader said.  

Be extra sun-cautious with infants or if near water  

Mader said that sunscreen is not recommended for infants. The Food and Drug Administration recommends that infants be kept out of the sun between 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and that they wear protective clothing — which blocks against UV-A and UV-B rays — if they have to be in the sun. Mader said parents should consult their pediatrician regarding sunscreen on infants.  

Just like adults, children should have their sunscreen reapplied at least every two hours.  

It’s important to be especially vigilant about sunscreen use and reapplication when near light-colored surfaces, such as water, concrete, snow and sand, as these can reflect UV rays and increase sun exposure.  

“Everyone should be aware that sunscreen is not ‘waterproof,’ despite the labels, and it does eventually wash off in water or through sweating,” Mader said. “If you are on or near the water, consider using a higher SPF sunscreen — at least 50+ — to provide additional protection from UV rays.”  

Mader said no sunscreen provides complete protection from the sun, so it’s critical to use additional forms of sun protection as well. This includes sunglasses with a UV protection factor; wide-brimmed hats that cover the ears, neck and top of the head – unlike a visor or baseball cap, which leaves some of these areas unprotected; and tightly-woven clothing that covers the arms and legs. 

Some clothing is also made specifically with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor, or UPF. This indicates how much UV radiation can reach the skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a garment with a UPF of 30-39 offers “very good” protection, and a UPF of 50 and up rates as “excellent” protection. 

Burn care 

Mader said most sunburns can be treated at home with aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce swelling. Use a topical moisturizer or aloe vera to provide additional relief, or soothe burns with cool water or cool, wet cloths. Avoid sun exposure until the sunburn is completely healed.  

“Depending on the severity of the sunburn — if the burn covers more than 15 percent of your body, you are dehydrated, have a high fever or are in extreme pain for more than 48 hours — a visit to the doctor may be required to ensure there is no serious skin damage,” Mader said.  

For more information about sun safety and summer skincare, visit the Cooperative Extension Service’s Sun Safety page, or check out the Division of Agriculture’s YouTube channel for a video on Sun Safety in Arkansas.  

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @AR_Extension. To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on Twitter at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter at @AgInArk. 

About the Division of Agriculture 

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s mission is to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research to the adoption of best practices. Through the Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service, the Division of Agriculture conducts research and extension work within the nation’s historic land grant education system.  

The Division of Agriculture is one of 20 entities within the University of Arkansas System. It has offices in all 75 counties in Arkansas and faculty on five system campuses.   

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Local Ties Represent At All-Star Weekend

Tammy Teague
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Local Ties Represent At All-Star Weekend

Several local high school stars represented their respective sports as the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star weekend took place in Conway this past extended weekend. Included in the athletic package were three Mansfield Lady Tigers among other local products.

Recent Mansfield graduates Brooklyn Adams and Natalie Allison enjoyed the spotlight at the Arkansas Activities Association premiere event. Lady Tiger head volleyball coach Kaylie Pyles also joined the mix as All-Star weekend unfolded on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas.

Lady Tiger Brooklyn Adams is seen warming up in the bullpen at the All-Star softball game.

Adams played in the All-Star softball games. Allison and Pyles joined for the volleyball matches.

Just in those two sports alone, the AHSCA All-Star rosters included seven other local athletes and three more coaches. 

Leigh Swint of Booneville, Kyndall Haney of Charleston, Ireland Cooper of Greenwood, and Emberlin Caldwell of Van Buren fortified the West softball roster. Brailey Frost of Paris, Brianna Ball of Van Buren, and Landis Luke of Greenwood infused the West team volleyball roster.

Coach Kaylie Pyles of Mansfield is an assistant coach for the West All-Star volleyball squad.

Chad Simpson of Booneville, Jared James of Greenland, and Whitney Bateman of Scranton served as All-Star softball coaches.

Serving on this year’s West volleyball coaching staff as an assistant was Mansfield’s Pyles. Nearly nine years ago to the day, Pyles was a player on the West All-Star team as a recent Mansfield High School graduate. Her All-Star head coach was Mena’s Brad Lyle.

Fast forward to 2023 and you’ll find Lyle once again was on the sideline. This time he served as an assistant coach for the West alongside Pyles. 

To further bridge the link, Lyle’s daughter Madilyn was also on the 2023 volleyball All-Star roster. The connection went full circle as Madilyn was among the first players Pyles taught as a college intern working for Mena Junior High several seasons ago. 

Pyles rejoined Mansfield’s Player of the Year, Natalie Allison, on the volleyball court at Friday’s All-Star event. The two have been together throughout most of their careers and have won three consecutive state volleyball championships together.

Allison will move on in the Fall to play college volleyball at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. That’s the same school Pyles attended when she advanced beyond her own high school career to play next level volleyball.

The West volleyball dominated the East squad with a five game sweep. In the second match in particular, the one that Allison started, the West team rolled.

“I knew we were going to be pretty good, I just didn’t know how good the other team was going to be,” offered Allison in a post game interview. “We never had any miscommunications. We clicked instantly, our whole team.”

Mansfield’s Brooklyn Adams started the All-Star show on that same Friday about two hours before the first serve of the volleyball game that took place across the UCA campus at the Farris Center. Adams was the starting catcher for the West softball team that saw its first pitch at 4 PM at the Farris Fields Complex.

Adams caught the first four innings for starting pitcher Emberlin Caldwell. Caldwell went on to win MVP honors as the West swept the East in a double header 1 – 0 and 6 – 2.

“She pitches wherever I wanted her to,” explained Adams as she reviewed the reunion with Caldwell, her travel softball teammate. “I was calling the signs for her. She’s very accurate and a great pitcher all-around.”

Adams will extend her softball career at Carl Albert State College in Poteau, Oklahoma. This comes after leading her Mansfield High School team twice to the state finals.

“I love being in control of the game,” continued Adams. “I feel like that’s what I get to do when I’m behind the plate.”

Adams and Allison shared the field and courts as successful high school players. This past school year alone the two painted a historic landscape featuring Mansfield athletics. 

As teammates in 2022-23, the pair captured the 2A state volleyball crown. They sent the basketball team to the state tournament final four. They led the state to its longest softball winning streak this school year before it ended in a 1 – 0 loss in the class 2A state championship game. 

Both also scored in the 2A-4 District track meet. That program went on to win the ATCA indoor track title and took runner-up at the class 2A outdoor track finals this school year.

Allison concluded her All-Star appearance with positive emotions about meeting new teammates and making new friends.

“You’d think we’ve known each other for years,” said Allison as she spoke on the immediate chemistry felt among the West volleyball players. “It was like we were best friends. It was really fun.”

Adams shared her All-Star experience with similar insight.

“It’s been an awesome opportunity,” said Adams as she left Farris Field, the site of the 2023 state softball finals, a winner this time around.

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