Arkansas hunters surpass $1 million in donations to fight hunger
Deer donated to AHFH are processed into ground meat and distributed to food banks throughout Arkansas. AGFC photo.
By Randy Zellers
LITTLE ROCK — Donations to Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry from hunting and fishing license buyers officially topped the $1 million mark, thanks to more than $18,800 dollars collected in December.
Donations, often gathered just a dollar or two at a time, are collected at checkout as an option when anyone purchases a license, magazine subscription or other product through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s online license system.
“We worked with the AGFC and state legislators back in 2012 to make this great donation opportunity possible,” Ronnie Ritter, AHFH president, said. “It started with a simple $1 donation option, but has bloomed into an option to donate $5, $10 or more. The Arkansas hunting and fishing community has responded with amazing generosity.”
AHFH receives 100 percent of the donations submitted through the AGFC’s licensing system, providing about one-third of the non-profit organization’s annual budget. The money pays for the gas and time needed to deliver ground venison to food banks statewide and to reimburse processors for labor and packaging costs to process donated deer.
“We really need two things to provide this much-needed food to needy Arkansans: deer and the money to process them,” Ritter said. “As we grow in donated deer, our need to pay the processors increases. Participating processors really do everything they can to keep the cost low, but they are businesses, and they have to pay their employees. I’m sure many of them are taking a loss to help out.”
Fresh meat is the most requested, yet rarest, item at food banks nationwide. While canned goods are staples of most food drives, the high cost and refrigeration needs of protein often leave a gap in a family’s diet.
Through AHFH, hunters in Arkansas step up to fill that need. The organization provides close to 100,000 pounds of venison annually, which equals 400,000 servings of meat to needy Arkansans.
“It’s really amazing to see the generosity of the hunting community, not just in donated money, but in donated deer,” Ritter said. “Hunters can tell our participating processors that they want so many pounds to go to AHFH, and many will donate their entire deer.”
State Capitol Week in Review from Senator Terry Rice
LITTLE ROCK – A new building is currently under construction for the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind (ASDB). At the end of January, the school celebrated the “topping-off” ceremony with the final white steel beam, marking a milestone in construction of the new school.
In 2023, state officials toured the Arkansas School for the Deaf (ASD) and the Arkansas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ASB). During the tour, many of the buildings and facilities were found in various states of disrepair. In the past, the schools were housed in independent buildings, side-by-side on West Markham in Little Rock. When the new instructional building is completed, the schools will be combined as the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind and will serve pre-K through 12th grade students.
By February of 2024, Governor Sanders along with a group of bipartisan legislators and school stakeholders announced plans to assist the school in making necessary changes to the campus. More than 200 school community members were surveyed and compiled three main priorities: keeping the campus at its current location, providing more resources for deaf and blind students beyond the Little Rock campus, and addressing the critical safety concerns students were enduring.
The group then consulted with school architects and planners to create a comprehensive vision for the future of the two schools to deliver high-quality instruction in a premier facility. The legislature initially allocated $30 million in 2021 to begin moving forward with plans and when completed the entire project has a final estimated price tag of $53.9 million.
In total, the school currently has approximately 167 students and half of the students live in the residence halls on campus. In addition, the state has identified 800 blind students and up to 1,500 deaf students across the state who would be eligible to receive services from the school. ASDB Superintendent Nicole Walsh believes the new school could attract more students and has plans to accommodate them.
Construction of the building has been very thoughtful. The design team considered details like the timing of natural light, which can impact visually impaired students, and lines of sight for deaf students to enable them to communicate anywhere in the building. They hope to make the building accessible for all students on campus, as well as those participating in distance learning. The new school will be equipped with the latest modern technology including Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts & Mathematics (STEAM) labs, a media center with maker space, adaptable labs that support hands-on experiential learning for deaf and blind students alike, and a flexible multipurpose room that also serves as a storm shelter.
In April 2025, the governor signed ACT 796 into law, consolidating the two schools, establishing a single board and appointing Walsh, then superintendent of the Arkansas School for the Deaf, as its new superintendent. The new 89,000 square foot building is projected to be completed by the end of December 2026.
Charleston’s Bryson Wibbing Signs to Play Baseball at University of the Ozarks
CHARLESTON — Charleston High School senior Bryson Wibbing will continue his baseball career at the collegiate level after signing with the University of the Ozarks, capping off a strong high school tenure for the Tigers.
Wibbing, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound right-handed athlete, has been a consistent contributor for Charleston baseball, earning recognition for his versatility on the field. He has seen action both as a position player and on the mound, bringing power at the plate and arm strength defensively.
During his high school career, Wibbing also competed in travel baseball with the US Nationals MidSouth, gaining exposure against top regional competition. His performance at showcase events and club tournaments helped draw attention from college programs, ultimately leading to his commitment.
In addition to baseball, Wibbing has been a multi-sport athlete for Charleston, contributing on the football field and further demonstrating his athletic ability and competitiveness. His experience across multiple sports has helped shape him into a well-rounded player prepared for the demands of college athletics.
The University of the Ozarks, located in Clarksville,Arkansas competes at the NCAA Division III level and is known for developing student-athletes both academically and athletically.
Wibbing’s signing represents another successful college commitment for Charleston athletics, and Tiger fans will be watching closely as he continues his baseball journey at the next level.
What does this opportunity to play college baseball mean to you and your family?
Well, given the opportunity to continue my career at the next level is truly a blessing. It has been my dream ever since I started playing baseball to play in college and make my family proud.
Why did you choose this college and baseball program over the others?
I chose this program because it’s pretty close to my hometown, and I’ve always had my eye playing there, and I think it’s gonna be a great place for me, and I hope I fit in well.
Who has had the biggest impact on your baseball journey up to this point?
I would have to say my dad, he has supported me ever since I started playing baseball from coaching me in Little League to paying for me to travel around the world to playing tournaments with the best competition. He’s been there throughout my entire process and I couldn’t have done it without him. I’m very thankful for him.
What are you most excited about as you prepare for the next level of competition?
I’m very excited to compete at the next level, and I’m prepared to work for it to earn a spot in the pitching rotation. I can’t wait to continue my career and play a part in winning games at the collegiate level with great coaches.
What message would you give to younger players who dream of playing college baseball one day? One message I’d like to share with younger players is to have a great work ethic. If you can develop a great work ethic and stay consistent with your training, then you have everything you want right in front of you and your career as a baseball player.
Photos courtesy of Charleston High School Principal, Rachel Fisher
Obituary: Jo Ann Farley (1952-2026)
Jo Ann Farley, age 73, was born on August 25, 1952, in Ventura, California, to Charles “Ted” Sales and Elsie (Forehand) Sales. She passed away on February 1, 2026, surrounded by love, leaving behind a family forever changed by her warmth, kindness, and unwavering devotion.
Jo Ann was the heart of her family-a loving mother, a faithful sister, and a guiding presence whose love reached across generations. To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was simply “Nanny,” a name spoken with affection, comfort, and joy. Her arms were always open, her heart endlessly patient, and her love unconditional. Time spent with family was her greatest treasure, and she made every moment together feel special.
She is survived by her daughter, Redonna Stafford and husband Gary; her son, Kenny Lynch; and her son-in-law, Ted Magill. She is also survived by her sisters, Marian Tipton of Waldron, Arkansas; Shirley Stone of Yukon, Oklahoma; and Carol Wright of Poteau, Oklahoma; her brother, Jack Sales of Killeen, Texas and the father of Redonna and Dana, Ron Sasse.
Nanny leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her grandchildren: Tandra Jewell (Archie), Justin Helton (Ashley), Tyler Magill (Haylee Oswald), Devin Magill (Constance), Gage Nichols (Breadan), Anastasia Bolin (Jeremiah), and Keegan Lynch. Her love continues to live on in her precious great-grandchildren: Adasha Jewell, Elijah Jewell, Emmett Tinsley, Kinsli Blanchard, Jenna Oswald, Creed Nichols, Penelope Bolin, and Paxton Bolin, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Dana Magill; her parents, Ted and Elsie Sales; her daughter-in-law, Nancy Lynch: her brothers, Charles Ray Sales, Millard Sales, and Melton Sales; her sisters, Mary Taylor and Charlene Sales.
Jo Ann found joy in life’s simple pleasures-browsing yard sales, resale shopping, crafting, sewing, and spending peaceful days fishing. Yet nothing brought her more happiness than laughter shared around family and friends, moments she held close and cherished deeply. Jo Ann had a great sense of humor, loved cracking jokes and most of all she loved to laugh.
The family will host a celebration of life at a later date.
Though her passing leaves an ache in the hearts of those who loved her, Jo Ann Farley’s gentle spirit, selfless love, and nurturing presence will continue to be felt every day. Her memory will remain a source of comfort, reminding all who knew her that love like hers never fades.
Obituary: Helen Faye Nelson (1948-2026)
Helen Faye Nelson, of Waldron, Arkansas, was born July 12, 1948, in Blythe, California, to Charlie Woodrow and Bessie (Smith) McFarland. She passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Waldron, Arkansas surrounded by loved ones.
Helen was the kind of woman who spent her life taking care of everyone else. For 30 years she worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), giving her time, compassion, and steady hands to those who needed her. Nursing wasn’t just her job-it was part of who she was.
At home, Helen found happiness in the simple moments that meant the most. She loved sitting on Amber’s back porch with a cup of coffee, visiting, laughing, and just enjoying being surrounded by family. She was a fan of watching TV, especially The Walking Dead, and she enjoyed crocheting-making things with love, stitch by stitch, in the same way she cared for the people around her.
But the greatest joy of Helen’s life was her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved them with her whole heart, and nothing made her prouder than being their “Nana or Nan.” She treasured every hug, every visit, and every moment she got to spend with them. She was also filled with excitement and anticipation as she looked forward to the birth of her great-granddaughter, Stevie Sochor.
Helen was united in marriage to William “Ed” Nelson on November 8, 1995, and the love they shared remained close to her heart throughout her life.
She is survived by her children: Amber (Brad) LeMaster, Adam Akins, Tyson Akins, Brandon (Kyla) Nelson, Rusty (Cindy) Nelson, and James (Lisa) Nelson.
She is also survived by her grandchildren: Makenzie Polen (Garrison), Elijah Polen (Paige), Peyton Boyd LeMaster (Morgan), Courtney Wood (Corby), Kyle LeMaster, Addyson Akins, Ayden Akins, Daisy Akins, Seth Akins, Eden Akins, Evan Akins, Nikki Holt (Joey), Kandi Nelson, Bailey Nelson, and Logan Nelson (Sierra); and her great-grandchildren: Carlee Wood, Cash Wood, Liam LeMaster, Letty LeMaster, Alli Perkins, Garrett Perkins, Abigail Holt, Everley Sochor, and Stevie Sochor.
She is also survived by her best friend, Shirley Shores, whose friendship brought comfort and companionship through the years.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband, William “Ed” Nelson; her son, Chris Akins; her parents, Charlie and Bessie McFarland; and all four of her siblings, including her best friend and baby sister, Betty “Punky” Charlieville.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home.
A celebration of life service will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rickey Hunt officiating.
Interment will follow at Sehorn Cemetery in Winfield, Arkansas.
Pallbearers will be Adam Akins, Brad LeMaster, Brandon Nelson, Elijah Polen, Morgan Ingle, Garrison Sochor, and Seth Akins.
Arrangements are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.
Helen leaves behind a family who loved her deeply and will miss her beyond words. Her love was steady, her heart was generous, and her presence was a comfort. Though she is gone, the memories she created and the love she gave will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
SR Tigers Step Up Big To Beat Charleston By Little
It’s the light at the end of the tunnel that draws folks to go for something good. That feeling that you can walk through the dark and still see success ahead. The Mansfield Tigers basketball team has been charging toward that light all season. Although it may have seemed like they would take one step forward, then two steps back, they continued to pursue the light. On Monday, February 2nd, that perseverance to endeavor attitude of the Tigers paid off as they stunned Charleston with a last second 61-59 victory.
Mansfield entered the game sitting towards the bottom of the 3A-4 while Charleston was a solid team looking to take another step towards the top of the conference. So naturally, the nod would initially lean towards the black and white Tigers being favored. Charleston won the jump ball and immediately dropped in four points before the Tigers could even tie their shoelaces. A pair of turnovers and missed rebound opportunities didn’t help matters any for Mansfield, but the Tigers weathered the early storm and got down to the five minute mark only down 4-0. Finally, Mansfield was able to get some momentum after multiple missed three-point attempts by Charleston as Hunter Whittaker pulled off a pivot, pump, pivot, shoot swish to put the Tigers on the board. Andrew Burton then sliced through Charleston’s defense for an easy layup to tie the game up with an early 4-4 score.
Charleston popped back ahead with an offensive rebound and put back to go up by two again. But Hunter Whittaker again made moves like Michael Jackson to put in a fade away shot for Mansfield. The score seemed to bounce more than the basketball as both Mansfield and Charleston continued to exchange points in what could’ve been an auctioneer’s dream game. “Charleston up 6-4, do i hear Mansfield for 6-6, yes, Mansfield ties 6-6. Can I get a Charleston 8-6, 8-6 Charleston thank you. Score of 8-6 to Mansfield, can I get an 8-8….8-8….score, 8-8 to tie”. The early auction bantering on the scoreboard ceased with a time out by Mansfield as both teams looked to buy big points instead of just matching each other. But matching each other is what the first quarter was all about as both Tiger teams ended the first quarter with a 10-10 tie on the scoreboard.
The first points of the second quarter came from Ethan Martin who knocked down one of two free throws to give Mansfield an 11-10 lead. Charleston came right back though and scored on back-to-back possessions to retake the lead, 14-11. But Hunter Whittaker again proved he can twist his way through any defense and pulled the Tigers back within one point with a layup. But turnovers and open lanes gave Charleston another pair of buckets to open the game up for the black and white Tigers. Joseph Carter put up his first points of the game to get the Tigers back within three, but it wasn’t enough as Charleston was just warming up. The black and white Tigers continued their run to stretch their lead up to 26-11. Carter again broke Charleston’s run with another board bucket as time wound down under a minute left in the first half. Drake Brunson drew down and hit the bullseye on a three-pointer cutting Charleston’s lead to five points, but that’s as close as Mansfield would get as the Tigers went into halftime down 26-21.
Charleston came out of the half with the same kind of energy as in the first half, while the Tigers couldn’t find a stop or a shot on either end of the court. Back down in double digits again, Mansfield needed players to step up and step up big time. Joseph Carter was first on deck to try and bring the Tigers back into contention by swishing a pair of free throws. Then Silas Burton dished in a mid-air putback to bring Mansfield back within six points of Charleston. Hunter Whittaker put his name in the step-up hat with a driving layup, but a foul nullified the bucket. No matter, though, Jubal Parks scorched the net with a three-pointer right after that to slash Charleston’s lead to 31-28.
But wait, there’s more! Drake Brunson zipped a three-pointer through the net to tie the game on the Tigers’ very next possession. Joseph Carter then scored on a rebound and put back to give the Tigers the lead again. It wasn’t just an individual player who was stepping up for the Tigers in the third quarter; it was the whole team. Now with a 33-31 lead over Charleston, all Mansfield had to do was maintain their poise and momentum. Joseph Carter again shone with a steal and was fouled on his way to the basket. Carter nailed both of his free throws to extend Mansfield’s lead to 35-31.
Charleston finally stopped the Tigers’ run right at the three-minute mark with a basket, but Mansfield picked the pace right back up with a Joseph Carter hook reverse layup. A Charleston three-pointer brought Mansfield’s lead down to a mere point as Charleston called a timeout with the score at 37-36 in Mansfield’s favor with 2:27 left in the third quarter. Charleston did regain the lead soon after, but Drake Brunson soared another three-pointer into the basket from downtown to take the lead back. The final second of the third quarter was back and forth, forth and back, every which way imaginable until the buzzer sounded with Charleston leading 45-42.
Both Mansfield and Charleston didn’t just want to win this game; they needed to win it. That need took the spotlight in the fourth quarter too as both teams poured every ounce of effort onto the court. Charleston struck first to extend their lead to 47-42, but Andrew Burton pulled out of the paint to hit a three-point shot to bring the game within two points. That three-pointer was short lived though as Charleston fired back with a shot beyond the arc to stretch out to a five-point lead. Hunter Whittaker and Joseph Carter teamed up to close the gap back to a single point with a 50-49 score and 4:43 remaining in the game. A few scores later, Jubal Parks succeeded on a free throw attempt to tie the game up at 52 all. Tie game. Under three minutes on the clock.
Everything, absolutely everything was on the line and that is where the game went from good to great. Silas Burton scored on a put back, but Charleston hit a three to take the lead back, 55-54. Hunter Whittaker was fouled with 2:15 left and hit one of his two shots to tie the game again at 55-55. Charleston retook the lead, but Hunter Whittaker tied the game up again, 57-57. With under a minute left in the game, Mansfield had to play mistake free. Jubal Parks was able to find a seam in Charleston’s defense for an easy layup, but Charleston took a layup of their own to put the score at 59-59 with only 0:22 seconds remaining in the game. With the ball on Mansfield’s side of the court, Coach Brown called a timeout to set up the perfect game winning shot. Once play resumed, Hunter Whittaker went straight for the basket but missed the layup. Even though Whittaker missed the layup, he came out ahead by catching a Charleston foul along the way. The clock read 0:05 and the score showed 59-59. Whittaker took shot one and made shot one. He took shot two and sank shot two. And that ladies and gentlemen is even more proof that free throws win games as the Tigers defeated Charleston with a 61-59 final.
The Tigers’ celebration will be short-lived though as they travel to Lamar on Tuesday, February 3rd, to take on the Lamar Warriors. Lamar is ranked third in the 3A-4 and comes into the game with a 17-6 overall record. The last time the Tigers and Warriors met, Lamar walked away with a 65-44 victory over Mansfield. But to be fair, Charleston beat the Tigers the first time they played them too. The Tigers are getting hot at the right time of the season, and an upset of Lamar wouldn’t be so far-fetched.
