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Logan County Students Selected for S.T.E.A.M Conference 

By Brandy Young

On April 7, 2023, 9 Logan County students attended the Girls of Promise Conference, held at the C.A. Vines 4-H Center in Little Rock. The attendees were selected after completing a lengthy application that included essays and letters of recommendation.

Girls of Promise is an initiative of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas that exposes girls to opportunities and mentors in STEAM fields with the goal of increasing the number of girls in higher-level STEAM courses and careers.

The annual Girls of Promise Conference is open to 8th-grade girls who are interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math in Arkansas. Students learn about various STEAM careers, enhance their skills, and meet women mentors excelling in their fields.

Abby Crandall, an 8th grader at Magazine, stated the most memorable part of the conference was watching an all-female flight crew land a Black Hawk helicopter and getting to meet and interact the crew.

The Logan County attendees were Abby Crandall from Magazine School, and from Booneville Junior High (back row L to R): Georgia Littleton(chaperone), Taylor Danekas, Isabella Scantling, Makiya Lewis, Lindsey McGrath, Hailey Robertson(chaperone), (front row L to R), Makinley Ensey, Kaylee Fisher, Paige Roper.

Timepiece: Moonshine

By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Stumbling down the slope, skidding over rocks and grasping roots to prevent catastrophe, I arrived at the opening that a friend had described to me.  Sliding back into the darkness of the overhanging cliff, the flashlight illuminated an old wooden door, askew and hanging on rusted hinges.  Sure enough, it was as described.  Old shelves lined the wall and jars and bottles littered the floor.  Left from the prohibition time, we had stumbled on one of the many moonshine stills that produced illegal alcohol during the twenties, thirties, and from the looks of it, probably more recently.

Arkansas, a major producer of corn, has always found it more profitable to convert grain to the liquid variety than to try sale it by the bushel.  In 1890, long before prohibition, twenty bushels of corn would bring ten dollars.  Forty bushels of that same corn, converted to 120 gallons of liquor, was easier to transport and would bring one-hundred and fifty dollars.  What couldn’t be sold in Arkansas could easily be transported to Memphis and New Orleans.

As the New Awakening religious movement swept through America in the mid-1800’s, more and more people joined the temperance movement in opposition to the sale of alcohol.  By the turn of the 20th century, political groups organized to oppose the use of alcohol.  Some, like Carrie Nation were more active in opposition and actually went into taverns and took hatchets and axes and destroyed the businesses.  It is somewhat ironic that Nation and her group head-quartered in Eureka Springs, one of the most liberal communities in Arkansas today.

The temperance movement peaked in 1919 when 68% of the House and 76% of the Senate passed the 18th amendment which prohibited the production and sale of all alcohol.  America had a problem- with alcohol banned but still having a large population that demanded the product, illegal operations producing alcohol sprang up across the nation.  Peak production centered in rural areas which produced corn and where stills could be easily hidden.

The hollows and forests of Arkansas provided great location to hide from the revenuers. Producers soaked bushels of shelled corn, allowed it to sprout, and then used a pestle to crush the corn.  The resultant crushed corn was then placed in an oak barrel for several day and then distilled.  The resultant material, known as sanglins, was then observed until the resulting bubbles formed from the mixture was just at the right stage, and then it was re-distilled to form “white lightning.”  The prime market in Arkansas was the resort city of Hot Springs.  Al Capone, Frank Costello and other big-time mob members spent a lot of time in the resort town known for its gambling and fun times.  A town of more than ten thousand when Las Vegas was still a desert community of less than a thousand, Hot Springs was a central location for, not only the use of alcohol, but also as a location from which illegal liquor produced in the Ouachita mountains could be shipped all over the nation.

The prohibition ended in 1933 when the 21st amendment repealed the 18th.  Arkansas counties were allowed to decide for themselves the issue of alcohol consumption.  The result was the hodgepodge laws that are still in force today.  “Wet” communities allow the sale of all alcohol, dry allows the sale of no alcohol, and “semi” wet allow the sale of beer and wine but no hard liquor.  Nowhere is it legal to manufacture hard liquor without a license but some, even in our local communities, still find it profitable to manufacture.  

The local state trooper pulled the speeding driver over to the side of the road.  As he walked up to the driver’s side of the vehicle, the driver shifted back into drive and took off.  After the ensuing chase, the car was checked thoroughly. Row after row of bottles containing clear liquid filled the trunk of the car. Moonshining is still alive and well in Arkansas.

How To Be a Successful Cop: Tips Every Rookie Needs

Being a police officer is rewarding, but many go at it from the wrong angles. Some like the status that comes with the job, but there is more to this role than just a title. An officer upholds the law and does right by the law—it’s nothing compared to the fictional crime dramas you might see. Although many cop dramas hold some truth to regulations and standards, there is much more to learn. Learn how to be a successful cop with these tips every rookie needs to succeed in the job field.

Make the First Day on the Job Memorable

The first day on the job isn’t the same for everyone; some new officers are overconfident, but some hesitate and don’t participate at all. Still, some individuals in the latest class of officers want to participate and learn.

So, the tip here is to make the first day on the job memorable. Go into your job hungry for opportunities but aware that the academy won’t hand everything to you. Your superiors had to go a long way to get to where they are now, and you will too.

Have an Understanding of Case Law and Code

While on the job, you’re required to know case law and code. For example, case laws established in the courtroom are judicial law. Meanwhile, code law is civil law.

It is common for senior officials to forget the difference because, most of the time, these differences aren’t clear-cut. It’s wise to keep your workbook on case law and code for reference so that you know the difference in every situation.

Go to College To Get More Knowledge

College is a great step to understanding the judicial and civil system before journeying through the law and defense career path. It’s not a requirement, but seeking high education—it doesn’t matter where—can set you up for success and higher chances of promotion early in your career.

Many universities offer degrees in law enforcement, but any major revolving around serving the public is desirable in police work. Majoring in social sciences, psychology, or even social work could pave the path for a career in criminal justice, as the knowledge is helpful in every branch.

Don’t Act Tough—Do Your Job and Be Safe

Acting tough won’t do you any good. In fact, it’s better to remain humble and remember you’re serving the public for the greater good, not pushing them around. This job requires a lot of self-awareness, as you’ll be in situations where it’s difficult to control emotions. No matter what, you need to remain level-headed.

Being safe on the job is crucial, especially when working with law enforcement tactical gear. The gear you use is helpful, but you need to be sure you know how and when to use these items and what the consequences of misuse are.

These are only a few of the tips rookie police officers need to succeed in their careers. Grow your knowledge, stay humble, and don’t hesitate to take on opportunities—these are the characteristics of a good cop.

Tips for Making Your Truck Feel More Like Home

Truckers spend much time on the road in their rigs. As a truck driver, decorating your space and making it more comfortable is important. This could help you feel more at home and comfortable sleeping at night. Dealing with homesickness is one of the hardest things a trucker must endure. Although seeing many different cities is nice, wouldn’t it be nice to be in your bed?

You can bring it home to you on the road by following our tips for making your truck more comfortable and homier.

Incorporate a “Kitchen” Space

To survive, you have to eat! It’s one of the fundamentals of life. Think about your personal needs and how they will make your life easier while on the road. Being on the road for a while can make you homesick for a home-cooked meal. Creating a mini space to sit and eat is important to help add normalcy.

Many truck drivers will urge beginners to eat healthy when on the road. Consider adding a few on-the-go kitchen appliances. By adding a mini-fridge, a basket for snacks, and a portable stove top, you can make “home-cooked” meals in your cabin.

Don’t Be Afraid To Decorate

Don’t be afraid to show your personality through your truck—it’s your space! The easiest way to decorate your room is by bringing in small items like floor mats, seat covers, posters, banners, and anything that reminds you of home. You could also add renter-friendly wallpaper to take your rig to the next level. Transform the dull, dark space into a vibrant, homier space you’re comfortable living in for however long your trucking journey is.

Upgrade Your Sleeping Area

Upgrading your sleeping area can make your truck feel more comfortable and like home. Adding small rugs, window shades, and curtains will help bring everything together. Add a few decorative pillows and a mattress topper to make your sleep more comfortable on your bed. Decorating and upgrading your sleeping area could help improve your wellness while on the road.

Add Some Entertainment

When you’re not on the road, finding ways to relax in your cabin can be tricky when you would rather be home in bed. You may think it’s hard to unwind in a confined space, but there are ways to relax at a rest stop. Some truck models have TV hookups that allow you to watch your favorite shows and movies while away from home. All you need is Wi-Fi, and you’re set! If you don’t have Wi-Fi, you turn on your hotspot to activate 5G or LTE.

5 Ways To Increase and Maintain Cows’ Growth Rate

Farm animals are unique creatures that require special care and food to ensure their safety and help them deliver high-quality products. Some of these animals are raised for a specific purpose. For example, different cows are raised to deliver either milk or meat, while others are bred specifically to reproduce in the interest of expanding a farm’s cow population.

These five ways to increase and maintain cows’ growth rate will give you important information on safety practices that ensure the good development and performance of the animals. A farm will greatly benefit from happy cows, as it will increase their output of goods, resulting in stronger partnerships with industries that purchase their products.

Nutritious Supplements

Scientists and researchers keep expanding their knowledge on how to feed cows so that they can gain weight effectively. Mixing the right food with nutritious supplements like cobalt, calcium, and protein will deliver positive results in the short and long term. Cows eat between 9 and 12 meals daily, requiring a great intake of vitamins and nutrients for healthy development. Alongside these meals, cows also need access to clean water at all times.

Keep Them Comfortable

Cows spend most of their time relaxing, which is why providing them with a comfortable space will positively impact their lives and development. Providing a clean space with grass, shade, and access to food and water is the perfect way to stimulate growth and keep animals happy. Cows enjoy daily routines, so having them do the same activities on a regular basis will help them develop a sense of confidence and trust in their careers.

Track Their Weight

Tracking your cow’s weight is essential because the results will determine whether you must adjust their food, begin tracking pregnancy, or provide assistance when they are sick. Having and maintaining a livestock scale is essential to this practice because it will deliver clear and accurate numbers to track healthy development. A weight shift is often the first sign of a health issue; quickly recognizing such a change will allow you to take immediate action to fix any problems.

Prevent Illnesses

A clean space that’s away from mud and other animals and protected from weather conditions will prevent illnesses that would affect your cattle. Preventing illnesses is the best way to ensure cows’ growth and reproduction because health is key to performance. Some signs of sick cows are eye and nasal discharge, coughing, and blood in the urine.

Reduce Stress

Stress can have a negative effect on your cattle’s minds and bodies, which could result in a lack of sleep and loss of weight. Reducing stress in your livestock will help them live a more well-rounded life in which they yield more milk, which will benefit you, your farm, and your business. Transportation is one of the main causes of stress in animals; sometimes, there is no way around that, but you can implement certain procedures like safe loading and driving to reduce the stress your cattle feel when being transported.

Tips for Improving Heating and Cooling in Your Home

Maintaining adequate comfort levels throughout your home can take some effort. This is especially true as the seasons change. Proper heating and cooling will ensure the temperature and humidity levels stay where you want them throughout the year. However, it can be challenging to get your HVAC settings just right.

Inefficiencies can cost you money and make your living spaces less satisfactory. Use these tips for improving heating and cooling in your home.

Maintain Existing Systems

Your existing HVAC system may not be perfect, but there are some steps you can take to ensure it’s running at maximum efficiency. First, check that your filter is clean. Excess dirt and debris can build up and block the flow of air. Changing or cleaning it every 90 days or so is ideal, as a result.

Inspecting and tuning your HVAC unit at least once a year is also a good practice. Cleaning the ductwork and sealing gaps will ensure temperatures remain stable throughout the home. Updated windows and insulation will ensure the house doesn’t leak air, eliminating energy waste as well.

Create Zoned Areas

Most homeowners don’t use every room throughout the day. Constantly leaving temperatures at the same level is inefficient, especially if you aren’t home. A zoned HVAC system will allow you to fine-tune your heating and cooling to fit the needs of each room.

By regulating airflow and redirecting it where you need it the most, you can improve your HVAC’s existing heating and cooling capacity. The benefits of a zoned HVAC system will allow you to invest where needed and ensure your home fits your lifestyle.

Use Smart Devices

Today’s homeowners are discovering the power of connected smart devices. They can automate equipment and allow users to control settings remotely. You can easily network lighting, security, and HVAC systems together to give you 24/7 access to essential functions.

Connecting a smart thermostat to your home’s heating and cooling will give you greater control over it. You can set a schedule or make subtle adjustments while out of the house. Customizing the home to fit your needs will maximize comfort and efficiency.

Make Your HVAC System Work for You

Understanding your home’s heating and cooling system can make living there much more convenient. You don’t want to adjust the temperature constantly because the HVAC system isn’t meeting your needs.

With these tips for improving heating and cooling in your home, you’ll be able to reduce your energy footprint and ensure the space is as comfortable as possible at the same time.

721 vs. 1031 Exchanges: What Are the Differences?

Owning multiple properties outside a personal home and vacation homes can bring in passive income. However, 1031 and 721 exchanges are excellent real estate investment exchange mechanisms to defer capital gains taxes.

However, there are slight nuances in how they will affect your portfolio. So, what are the differences between 721 and 1031 exchanges? Here’s a guide to help you understand how each exchange operates and how you can potentially benefit as a property owner.

What Is a 721 Exchange?

A 721 exchange is a resource used by real estate investors. If you find a portfolio or trust that expresses interest in purchasing your property in favor of swapping, you can trade for shares in an investment trust. Something to know about 721 exchanges is that they allow you to earn a steady income and upside potential, transitioning from an active investor to a passive one.

Like a 1031 exchange, 721 exchanges don’t trigger taxable events; you won’t have to pay taxes on exchanges until share redemption. In addition, you can do it all at once or spread it out over time, and you get shares in a diverse portfolio that protects your investment from unpredictable market changes.

What Is a 1031 Exchange?

1031 exchanges allow you to trade one investment property for another and defer capital gains taxes. According to the IRC Section 1031, real estate investors must find “like-kind” replacement assets to qualify.

A 1031 exchange helps you grow your real estate investment without paying expensive taxes. However, it isn’t tax-free—you must pay taxes when selling your replacement property unless you pass away, in which case your heirs won’t have to pay capital gains taxes.

What Are Their Differences?

Now that you know more about 721 and 1031 exchanges, let’s review their differences. What responsibilities, ownership capabilities, and diversification opportunities will you have with each?

Responsibility

Ownership of a property comes with a plethora of responsibilities. In situations where you can’t find tenants for your property, you’ll deal with vacancy costs. Similarly, you must deal with paying for repairs directly out of your wallet.

When you go with a 721 exchange, you won’t have maintenance and management responsibilities. However, 1031 exchanges keep you as a direct, active owner where you still have responsibilities on your shoulders.

Diversification

721 exchanges allow for diversification by giving you instant access to extensive portfolios of different property locations and types. 1031 exchanges help diversify your portfolio, especially if you already own other real estate types.

Ownership

In a 1031 exchange, you have complete control of decisions regarding your property. In a 721 exchange, you make a trade that relinquishes ownership of the real estate. You instead own shares in a partnership or trust that has 100 percent control over the property.

Not every property can qualify for a 721 exchange, but they can all be used in a 1031 exchange. Both exchanges can help with tax deferrals but can lead you down two different paths. See what you have in your possession and speak to a financial fiduciary advisor to get you started.

Hogs’ Fletcher Recalled to the Majors

Former Arkansas Razorback outfielder Dominic Fletcher was recalled from Triple A to the Arizona Diamondbacks on April 30. Fletcher, who was hitting .323 at Triple A Reno, was promoted to provide depth in the Arizona outfield.

According to Tom Kuebel of Arizonasports.com, Fletcher, “provides some depth in the outfield for the first place D-backs after sending down Jake McCarthy earlier this week and a collision during Saturday’s match-up with the Rockies that sent Corbin Carrol to the bench in the sixth inning.”

The former Razorbacks star has performed well in the minor leagues, especially this season at the Diamondbacks’ Triple A affiliate Reno. There, Fletcher has hit .323 with five doubles, three triples and three home runs. According to Kuebel, “He’s also shown discipline at the plate with ten walks in 22 games while providing some added pop with 13 RBIs.”

Fletcher was drafted in 2019 by Arizona as the 75th overall pick in the draft. In 2022, the former Razorback was added to the D-backs’ 40-man major league roster. He was later optioned to Triple A Reno in 2023 until his recall back to the majors on April 30 of this year.

Fletcher and the D-backs play at Arlington, Texas on Tuesday, May 2 versus the Rangers. Game time is 7:05 p.m.

Arkansas Defeats Tennesse 2-0 in Game Three to Win the Series and Give the Vols Their First Series Loss of the Season

FAYETTEVILLE – No. 12 Arkansas (37-14) shutout No. 3 Tennessee (39-7), 2-0, for the series win Monday night at Bogle Park. It’s the program’s first three-game series victory vs. a top-three ranked team. 

Arkansas moves to 37-14 overall and 13-8 in SEC play. Arkansas is 69-19 at home over the last three seasons. With the win, Arkansas also has two top-10 series decisions this season.  

The Razorbacks have back-to-back series wins vs. the Lady Vols. Arkansas has also clinched two straight series wins vs. Tennessee in Fayetteville.  

Freshman LHP Hannah Camenzind and redshirt senior RHP Chenise Delce combined for the shutout.  

Camenzind (4-2) got the win after twirling 5.2 scoreless frames and restraining Tennessee to five hits while striking out two. Camenzind’s pitching was lethal as she forced 11 ground outs throughout the ballgame.  

Receiving a standing ovation, Camenzind handed the reigns over to Delce, who was lights out in her fourth save of the season. Delce tossed the final 1.1 innings and retired all four batters she faced. Delce entered in the top of the sixth with runners at second and third with two outs. Delce struck out the final batter to put up another zero for Tennessee.  

Delce retired the side in the top of the seventh to secure the win.  

Arkansas’ pitching staff was electric all weekend against a dominant Tennessee offense. Across 21 innings, the Razorbacks held the Lady Vols to seven runs.  

Arkansas combined for two runs on four hits and has homered in back-to-back outings. Redshirt junior Rylin Hedgecock was the star of the show, blasting her 20th home run – a two-run shot – to put the Hogs on the board. Hedgecock now holds the outright SEC lead in homers this season.  

It was a scoreless game until the bottom of the fourth. Freshman Reagan Johnson started the bottom half with a leadoff, infield single. Sophomore Raigan Kramer reached on a fielder’s choice as Johnson was forced out at second.  With one out, Hedgecock smoked a two-run Bogle bomb to right center for a 2-0 lead. 

Reagan Johnson, sophomore Kacie Hoffmann and junior Hannah Gammill scattered a hit apiece. Johnson, the reigning SEC Freshman of the Week, increased her hitting streak to four games.  

Bogle Park was the place to be all weekend as Arkansas set a new series attendance record of 9,595.  

Up Next 

Arkansas travels to Missouri to wrap up conference play on May 5-7 at Mizzou Softball Stadium. The series opens at 7 p.m. CT Friday on SEC Network+. All three games will be available on SEC Network+.  

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 Tafolla.

Hogs to Make Final North Little Rock Appearance of the Season on Tuesday

FAYETTEVILLE– No. 6 Arkansas (33-11) makes its annual trip to North Little Rock to square off against first-time opponent Lipscomb (23-21) in a midweek matchup at Dickey-Stephens Park.

First pitch between the Razorbacks and Bisons from inside the home of the Arkansas Travelers, the Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 2. The game will not be televised or streamed.

Tuesday night’s game can be heard on the Razorback Sports Network from Learfield, including locally in Fayetteville on 92.1 FM or through the Razorback app, with Phil Elson on the call. A full list of radio affiliates is available here.

Schedule

Tuesday, May 2

Lipscomb vs. #6 Arkansas – 6 p.m. – Listen – Live Stats

On the Mound

Tuesday, May 2

Lipscomb LHP Michael Dunkelberger (2-6, 6.35 ERA) vs. Arkansas LHP Parker Coil (0-0, 6.23 ERA)

In the Polls
Collegiate Baseball – 5

Perfect Game – 5

Baseball America – 6

D1Baseball – 6

NCBWA – 6

USA Today Coaches – 6

Hogs in The Rock
Arkansas will play at Dickey-Stephens Park for the 12th time since its first game there in 2010. Prior to the pandemic-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons, the Hogs had played a non-conference game in North Little Rock every year since 2010.

The Razorbacks boast an impressive 10-1 record at the ballpark, including last season’s extra-inning win against UCA.

2010: vs. Louisiana Tech – W, 5-4 (10)

2011: vs. Memphis – W, 7-2

2012: vs. Louisiana Tech – W, 6-5 (10)

2013: vs. Mississippi Valley State – W, 2-1

2014: vs. Mississippi Valley State – W, 3-0

2015: vs. Memphis – L, 5-4

2016: vs. ULM – W, 3-1

2017: vs. Memphis – W, 2-0

2018: vs. Grambling State – W, 2-0

2019: vs. Grambling State – W, 17-3

2020: N/A

2021: N/A

2022: vs. UCA – W, 2-1 (10)

Know Before You Go

  • Gates open at 4 p.m.
  • Dickey-Stephens Park is a cashless facility. Patrons can exchange cash for an in-park gift card at the info booth near the Home Plate Gate. Cash is still accepted in the DSP official parking lot west of the Broadway Bridge.
  • Clear bag policy is in effect. Clear bags (plastic, vinyl or PVC) must not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in size. Small clutch purses (no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″) and one-gallon plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar) are permitted.
  • Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed inside Dickey-Stephens Park. Chairs are not permitted in the Beer Garden.
  • Have your print-at-home ticket printed or your mobile ticket saved to your phone before arriving. Please call (501) 664-1555 if you are having any issues with digital or PAH tickets.
  • No outside food or beverage is allowed into Dickey-Stephens Park.
  • All forms of smoking are prohibited inside the stadium. For fans who wish to smoke, a designated area will be available outside the ballpark.
  • Cameras with tripods, monopods and/or detachable lenses are not allowed. Guests seen with these items will be asked to return them to their car before entering.

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

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

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