On Monday, September 5th, we will all enjoy having the day off from work, school, and other obligations as our nation observes the Labor Day holiday. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Labor Day holiday “is rooted in the late nineteenth century, when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.” And this year, taking a moment to reflect on the value of work and how it contributes to our country’s over all welfare as a nation is, in my opinion, warranted now more than ever.
As a writer, I am not going to engage in a political discussion on the state of labor in our nation. Our nation is at a point in time where we are divided politically on virtually every issue, and the topic of work is perhaps one of the more sensitive issues of our day. So, I will suffice it to say that the Labor Day holiday is more than just an opportunity to be at home or to spend time with family and friends. It is a brief respite in our daily routines where the opportunity is there to take a moment to reflect on the state of our workplaces and the economical contributions that employment brings to all of us.
Schools will be closed as well as other governmental offices on September 5. Banks and other businesses will be closed, and there is no mail delivery on this day.
Governmental offices will be closed on Sept 5 in observance of Labor Day (RNN File Photo / Jim Best)
On behalf of everyone at RNN, we wish you and your family a pleasant and restful Labor Day, and we thank you for your subscriptions and your loyal readership to our publications.
As you know, the stock market has attracted a lot of attention – and for good reason, as we’ve seen considerable volatility almost from the beginning of the year. But if you own bonds, or bond-based mutual funds, you might also have some concerns. However, it’s important to understand why bonds should continue to be an important part of your portfolio.
To begin with, let’s look at what’s happened with bond prices recently. Inflation has heated up, leading the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates to help “cool off” the economy. And rising interest rates typically raise bond yields — the total annual income that investors get from their “coupon” (interest) payments. Rising yields can cause a drop in the value of your existing bonds, because investors will want to buy the newly issued bonds that offer higher yields than yours.
And yet, despite this possible drop in their value, the bonds you own can still help you make progress toward your financial goals. Consider these benefits of bond ownership:
• Income – No matter what happens to the value of your bonds, they will continue to provide you with income, in the form of interest payments, until they mature, provided the issuer doesn’t default — and defaults are generally unlikely with investment-grade bonds (those rated BBB or higher). Your interest payments will remain the same throughout the life of your bond, which can help you plan for your cash flow and spending.
• Diversification – As you’ve probably heard, diversification is a key to successful investing. If you only owned one type of asset, such as growth stocks, and the stock market went into a decline, as has happened this year, your portfolio likely would have taken a big hit — even bigger than the one you may have experienced. But bond prices don’t always move in the same direction as stocks, so the presence of bonds in your portfolio — along with other investments, such as government securities and certificates of deposit — can help reduce the impact of volatility on your holdings. (Keep in mind, though, that by itself, diversification can’t guarantee profits or protect against all losses in a declining market.)
• Reinvestment opportunities – As mentioned above, rising interest rates and higher yields may reduce the value of your current bonds, but this same development may also offer you some favorable reinvestment opportunities. If you own bonds of varying durations — short-, intermediate- and long-term — you should regularly have some bonds maturing. And in an environment such as the current one, you can reinvest the proceeds of your expiring short-term bonds into new ones issued at potentially higher interest rates. By doing so, you can potentially provide yourself with more income. Also, by owning a mix of bonds, you’ll still have the longer-
term ones working for you, and these bonds typically (but not always) pay a higher interest rate than the shorter-term ones.
It might not feel pleasant to see the current value of your bonds drop. But if you’re not selling them before they mature, and you take advantage of the opportunities afforded by higher yields, you’ll find that owning bonds can still be a valuable part of your investment strategy.
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
Before investing in bonds, you should understand the risks involved, including credit risk and market risk. Bond investments are also subject to interest-rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of bonds can decrease, and the investor can lose principal value if the investment is sold prior to maturity.
Your child has been outgrowing clothes since they were an infant. But now that they’re transitioning from toddlerhood, it’s time to transform their bedroom into a big kid’s room.
Use these simple tips to avoid feeling overwhelmed by all the changes. Find out how to transition a little kid’s room to a big kid’s room.
Determine What Needs To Change
Before you make any changes, take stock of the areas in the room that cause issues for your kid. Do toys they no longer play with take up too much space? Are bookshelves too small now that they’re learning to read? Do you need to increase available floor space?
You can make the best plan for the room by removing outdated items and repurposing the space. Having a plan will help you create a room that easily evolves with your child.
If your child needs a place to write, draw, and work on crafts, get a desk. As they grow older, they can use the desk for homework and other activities, too.
If you need more floor space in the room, consider giving your child a loft bed or bunk bed. These popular bedframes help you efficiently use vertical space.
Use Your Kid’s Ideas
While you’ll have the final say on the room’s design, using your kid’s ideas is a great way to give them a space they’ll love. Whenever you have a chance to get your child’s input, narrow down the options and ask. Whether that means letting your child choose between three different wall colors or two different desks, it’s a wonderful bonding experience.
Involving your child in the process of redecorating the room will result in a space that reflects their personality and interests. It’ll be a room you can both enjoy for years to come.
Don’t Change It All
Whether you’re excited or anxious about changing your kid’s room, don’t feel the need to change it all. On a practical level, not everything will need a makeover. But on another level, your child’s comfort items may continue to bring your kid bliss.
Focus on the practical changes, and keep them fun as you make them. Over time, you’ll make more modifications to the room; if you continue to choose child-safe, quality items in a style your kid likes, you’ll love the room at all stages.
Bay windows provide a wonderful source of light for homes. That’s why they’re popular. On top of this, they’re quite aesthetically pleasing. Maybe you want to use your bay window creatively. These are a few tips to help you decorate your bay window.
Conversational Sitting Area
If you love entertaining, this conversational sitting area idea is perfect. Pick out or relocate two comfortable chairs and place a side table between them for a place to set down drinks or food. Snuggle them into the bay window to create a functional sitting area perfect for deep conversations.
Add in a sophisticated-looking floor lamp or additional overhead lighting to brighten up the space. Drape a blanket over the chair and a few decorative floor pillows to make the corner look aesthetically pleasing.
Cozy Reading Nook
A bay window is the perfect setting for a good view and a good book. Create a cozy little area for you, your partner, or your kids to read. Plus, you can watch the rain fall or soak up the sunshine from inside. The best way to turn a bay window into a window seat is to build a custom bench. Then, you can store your comfortable blankets and pillows underneath. It makes the space easy to clean up, and you can quickly grab a soft blankie before nestling in for hours.
Comfortable Workstation
Who doesn’t want to watch the birds fly by while they work? Windows provide ample light for you to work productively. Ensure you pick out the correct window treatments when you need some privacy. You can create a built-in desk to fill the space or purchase a desk that fills out the window. Occupy the leftover space with your favorite plants, pictures, or artwork.
Create a Breakfast Nook
Do you have a bay window in your kitchen? Seize the opportunity to create a place for your family to gather at the cozy breakfast nook each morning. You don’t have to install a bench, but it’s the perfect way to have a unique eating space. You can also find a set of chairs and a table that decorate the window while also making the area next to it more functional. You’ll enjoy your morning coffee and eggs with the natural morning sunlight.
Plus, you can use the area for more than breakfast. Enjoy family game night nestled around the table or gather friends and family for dessert at the end of the day. It will quickly become the best spot in the house.
Choosing which creative decorating idea you’ll choose for your bay window may be challenging. The above tips can help spark your juices and inspire you. Find the best option for your home and create the corner of your dreams.
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by Mayor Doug Kinslow. The roll was called by City Clerk/Treasurer Sharla Derry and council members present at roll call were Ralph Meeker, Rod Powell, Daniel McDaniel, Tim Terry, and Lance Terry; a quorum was declared; City Attorney Mike Hamby was present and Councilman AC Brown arrived after roll call at 7:12 p.m. Prayer was offered by Bro. Jeff Ivey of Greenwood First Baptist Church and Pledge of Allegiance was led by Police Chief Will Dawson.
Approval of Minutes: Motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Meeker to approve the July 11, 2022 regular city council meeting minutes as presented; motion passed unanimously.
Recognitions and Acknowledgements None Committee Reports: Boys & Girls Club – Report Submitted SRCA – Report Submitted Parks Commission – Report Submitted Water/Wastewater Commission – Reports Submitted
Citizen Forum: Jim Newcomb – Mr. Newcomb stated that he recently made a request to see the City’s Fire Board minutes and found that minutes of those meetings do not exist, to his knowledge. He requested that minutes to those meetings be recorded due to the fact that three councilmen sit on that board and make decisions with the City’s tax money, to which Mr. Hamby clarified that 2 or more council together discussing city business is considered a meeting. Mr. Newcomb said that he was curious about the recent purchase of a fire truck and expressed doubt that the Fire Department could have made that purchasing decision without the councilmen discussing the city’s business therefore. He said he has looked at some of the City’s meeting notes and questioned that if he were to look at the Fire Board’s minutes, would what was discussed match what went on at the City Council meeting; Mayor Kinslow stated that this would be looked into. Upon further discussion, Mr. Powell acknowledged Mr. Newcomb’s point as valid and offered commentary and said he would visit with the City Attorney and consider when all three councilmen are discussing city business, maybe minutes should be taken and, in later comments, expressed his desire for transparency to the citizens; Mr. Tim Terry inquired of Mr. Newcomb as to why it took 12 months after a new fire truck was bought for him to inquire about this and found it interesting that this question has been raised during an election period. Mr. Brown offered the statement that, in order to maintain a low ISO rating of 2, certain purchases are made to maintain the standard required to stay at that rating. In conclusion, Mr. Newcomb stated that he is not griping about the fire department, first responders, or the council members, he simply would like to read minutes from the meetings.
Sue Edwards – Mrs. Edwards offered thanks and praise for the Greenwood Fire Department, the Police Chief, the Mayor, and the Parks Director for their efforts in successfully saving their house from catching fire recently while they were not home.
Financial Report Report submitted with tax receipts updates from Mr. Marsh; ARPA second tranche was received at $975,195.00 that is still unallocated but some recommendations will be brought to council, possibly next meeting; solar savings update; Fire property loan has been paid off; flood related expenses update – $61,000 plus expected sewer issue at the lake which is likely to bring the total to $160,000 to date.
Mayor Kinslow stated that FEMA and WAPDD grants are being pursued which would allow purchase of flood prone properties to remove the homes and convert the properties to a park-like setting, along with funding to relocate inhabitants of those homes.
Agenda Additions Police – Resolutions to Amend Budget for Purchase of Flood Damaged Vehicle Police – Ordinance to Waive Bidding for Purchase of Vehicles There were no noted objections to this addition.
OLD/UNFINISHED BUSINESS Mayor – Ordinance Authorizing Water Tap Outside City Limits on Property Owned by Farmers Bank – 3rd Reading – Mr. Powell asked that Section 4 of the ordinance be edited to remove the 25% surcharge language and replace it with language that refers back to the city ordinance that enacts the surcharge so that, if anything about that changes in the future, said change will not affect this section of this ordinance. Motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Meeker to approve this by title only, with change discussed; motion passed by majority with Mr. Tim Terry voting no, and all others voting yes. The title was read by the City Clerk.
Mayor – Approval of Water Rights Purchase for 35.96 Acres of Land at Highway 71 and 10 Spur – Tabled from Previous Meeting – Mr. Marsh distributed a “cover letter” that is to accompany the letter provided in the packet “A Memorandum of Water Rights Agreement and Agreement for Binding Arbitration”; a lengthy discussion followed with additional commentary by Greenwood Water/Wastewater Commission Chair Tate Cole, Planning & Building Director Sonny Bell, Cheryl Garner, John Van Gorder, Buddy Loyd, Joanna Brandt, and Water/Wastewater Commission member John Bailey. After discussion, motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Powell to accept this agreement with “council approval” acknowledged on the cover letter; motion passed unanimously; this was followed by a round of applause.
Mayor – Approval of Agreement Regarding Extending Water Services for Library – Tabled from Previous Meeting – Mr. Tim Terry clarified that this is just to run a line under the street, to which Mayor Kinslow answered in the affirmative and referenced a map to confirm location. After discussion, motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Powell to approve this agreement as presented; motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS City Clerk – Ordinance to Approve Related Party Transactions with Jim Reynolds Outdoors – 1st Reading – Motion was made by Mr. Tim Terry, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to approve this ordinance; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the City Clerk. Mr. Tim Terry inquired as to what type of business could be done with Mr. Reynolds, to which Mr. Reynolds clarified that it is an advertising agency. Mr. Reynolds addressed council and spoke on the plans for moving dirt for the library and stated that it is the County that will be doing that and thanked the Council for the yes vote that raised the standard of living here in Greenwood, Arkansas. Ms. Derry entertained passage under emergency, to which it was decided that this would be read over three separate readings.
Finance – Resolution to Create Restricted Funds Account and Amend Budget for City Lake Bridge Trail Project – Mr. Marsh stated that this is a subaccount under the General Fund for the Parks and donations for the stated purpose will go into the account; motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to adopt this resolution as presented; motion passed unanimously.
Finance – Resolution to Amend Budget for Increasing Capital Improvements for City Lake Bridge Trail Project – Mr. Marsh explained the dynamic of the donated funding for this project and how it relates to additional funding from City Sales & Use Tax – Parks; motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Powell to approve this resolution with the following change in Section 1 of the document: Change “Oak Street” to “The Oaks Subdivision”; motion passed unanimously.
Mayor – Approval of Ordinance to Waive Bidding for City Lake Bridge Trail Project – Ms. Derry asked Mr. Marsh if he took issue with the passage of waiving bids by ordinance, rather than resolution, to which he stated that he and Mr. McDaniel have questioned the reasoning for passage of these by ordinance, as it delays progress in projects with having to wait for three readings, etc. Mr. Marsh explained that state law mandates passage by resolution but city ordinance legislates that waiving bids be passed by ordinance, instead; and it was then discovered that state law recently changed to direct that bids be waived by resolution instead of ordinance; it was requested that next month’s agenda include changing the City’s bid requirements to match that of the statute.
Mr. McDaniel asked for an update on the areas at the City Lake being within city limits, to which Mr. Hamby stated that he is waiting on the title company for certification that the City owns the property there and it has been taking them a significantly longer time to determine this due to the governmental lots that exist there and he said without this, he cannot proceed.
Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. Meeker to put this on first reading by title only; Mr. McDaniel explained the process for placing the bridge as being pickup of components, which are 90 feet long, taking them to a fabrication yard, customizing them to fit the location, and the work will be done by Holmes Erection, Crawford Construction, and Mickle Wagner Coleman Engineering – once these processes are complete, a better budgeting figure will be arrived at for cost to complete the project. The earlier motion passed by majority with Mr. Tim Terry voting no, and all others voting yes. 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 by majority with Mr. Tim Terry voting no and all others voting yes. Mr. Powell thanked Mr. McDaniel for his work in pushing this project forward; motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Powell to enact the emergency clause; motion passed by majority with Mr. Tim Terry, Mr. McDaniel and Mr. Lance Terry voting no and all others and Mayor Kinslow voting yes to the pass the measure.
City Attorney – Authorization to Allow Remittance of Restitution in Payments – Mr. Hamby stated that he had contacted Ms. Shepherd’s attorney inquiring as to the status of the $1,000 payment for tree damages at the lake and was informed that Ms. Shepherd had lost her employment and was needing to make payments of $100 per month and that he would not recommend that council accept that offer, rather he will advise her attorney that if the City does not receive payment within 30 days as initially discussed litigation would proceed. Ms. Derry clarified that the payments Ms. Shepherd stated that she could pay was $50 or $60 per month. Motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Powell to not accept the proposed payments for this restitution; motion passed unanimously.
Water Commission – Repeal and Replace Ord #04-33 Authorizing Refund of Water Deposits – Emergency Passage – Mr. Posey presented this ordinance and explained that the water office has switched software and the new system no longer accommodates the procedure which this ordinance requires to select customers that would receive the refund of deposit based on good payment history; Mr. Posey stated that these checks are due in August under the current ordinance and if delayed further, this will not change until next year, to which Mr. McDaniel questioned why this change has been requested at this late time. Mr. Marsh stated that the new system does not accommodate the procedures necessary as the previous software did, and this has just been discovered as of late. After discussion, motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Meeker to put this on first reading by title only; motion passed unanimously; motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Meeker to waive the second and third readings of the ordinance; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the City Clerk; motion was made by Mr. Tim Terry, seconded by Mr. Brown to adopt the ordinance; motion passed unanimously. Motion was made by Mr. Tim Terry seconded by Mr. Brown to enact the emergency clause of the ordinance; motion passed by majority with Mr. McDaniel voting no and all others voting yes.
A&P Commission – Confirmation of Debra Thomas to Fill Vacancy on Commission – Mr. Powell stated that Mrs. Thomas owns the restaurant Cucina and the A&P Commission has requested council confirm her to replace the vacancy created by the leaving of the McDonald’s manager. Motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Meeker to confirm this appointment; motion passed unanimously.
A&P Commission – Term Renewals for A&P Commissioners Tanner, McAlister, Powell and Brown – Mr. Powell stated that Mr. Tanner is with KMAC, Mr. McAlister is at large, and Mr. Powell and Brown are council members. Motion was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Tim Terry to confirm these appointments; motion passed unanimously.
Finance – Proposed Retirement Plan Change to Allow Loans on Vested Employee Retirement Balances – Mr. Marsh stated that this has been explored and the Retirement Board has met and would like to implement the plan change with the retirement attorneys drawing up the changes to the plan. He said that vested amounts up to $50,000 or 50% of lower vested amounts for up to a 5-year period can be drawn and if an employee leaves employment without repayment, the employee would receive a 1099 tax form as income; a fee of $75 would be applied with prime plus 1% interest to any employee taking advantage of this, with only one loan per application allowed at any one time. After discussion, motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Powell to approve this change to the retirement plan as presented; motion passed unanimously.
Police – Resolutions to Amend Budget for Purchase of Vehicle Due to Flood Damage – Chief Dawson explained the reasons for his actions at last meeting and expressed his frustrations with police officers vs. firefighters as they relate to votes on the council. He said his officers responding to a scene are being paid less than the first responders/firefighters responding to the same scene and that his officers are risking their lives just as much and are full-time employees. He apologized for lashing out at the Fire Department and had built up frustration that was let out and stated that he shouldn’t have done that; he added that he didn’t have much time left at the City and explained further these thoughts, also adding that he is not against the Fire Department but would like these problems solved. Mr. Lance Terry responded to Chief Dawson’s comments by asking of him to name what he has not received in all of the years that he has made requests of the Council and also inquired as to why his agenda additions were made at the meeting instead of ahead of time as others do, to which Chief Dawson stated that he was waiting on quotes to arrive. Mr. Lance Terry included a response to Chief Dawson’s earlier comment about not having much time left at the City, and expressed that Greenwood is not a priority for him, which prompted an outburst from citizen John Van Gorder seated in the audience. Mr. Van Gorder shouted expletives, became unseated and walked toward the council bench while Mayor Kinslow called for order in the room; he asked for Mr. Van Gorder to address council in a calm manner, to which Mr. Van Gorder apologized and returned to his seat by his own volition. Mr. Lance Terry went on to respond further, along with comments from other council members and some citizens.
Two resolutions were presented for approval and Mr. Marsh and Chief Dawson explained the reasons for both; there was a discussion that the items can be purchased with DTF funds but the outfitting and insuring them was requested to be provided by the General Fund. Chief Dawson mentioned that he had reported after the fact that he took the DTF purchased Command Trailer and the 1992 Hummer acquired through government acquisition and traded it for a CID truck as an even trade.
Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. Meeker to approve the resolution as presented for purchase of a 2022 Chevy Camaro and a 2022 Dodge Durango; motion passed unanimously.
Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. Meeker to approve the resolution as presented for a Dodge Charger to replace a flood damaged 2014 Chevy Tahoe; motion passed unanimously. Mr. Tim Terry asked if Council should have been involved in the trade of the DTF purchased vehicles and Chief Dawson responded that he has done this in the past, but feels that his job administrating assets is to make those decisions and didn’t believe that he had made decisions asset-wise that was negative to the City. He said that he had shared with the Mayor that he wished to trade his truck in for a gas powered truck since he will no longer need to pull the Command trailer anymore and stated that if council wants him to come before them, he will; Ms. Derry acknowledged that assets are under the control of the Council for disposition but, regarding trade-ins, did not know if that was a different gray area. Mr. Hamby advised that it is whatever is adopted by ordinance, to which Ms. Derry stated that she believes that is designated as the Mayor or his agent. Chief Dawson updated council on personnel needs at Mr. Powell’s request, additional discussion followed, in which Chief Dawson clarified that the school is paying half of two officer’s salaries and one whole officer salary with a goal to have one officer at every school.
Police – Ordinance to Waive Bidding for Purchase of Vehicles – Chief Dawson presented this for consideration and again offered his apologies for previous interactions and expounded on ways the City of Greenwood Police Department is proactive rather than reactive. After discussion motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. Brown to put this on first reading by title only; motion passed unanimously and the title was read by the City Clerk. Motion was made by Mr. Powell, seconded by Mr. Meeker to waive the second and third readings of the ordinance; motion passed unanimously. Motion was made by Mr. Tim Terry, seconded by Mr. McDaniel to adopt this ordinance; motion passed unanimously. Motion was made by Mr. Brown, seconded by Mr. Meeker to invoke the emergency clause of the ordinance; motion passed by majority with Mr. McDaniel voting no, and all others voting yes.
Department Reports and Questions from Council Police – Mr. Powell asked about the demographics of the Greenwood Police Department, to which Chief Dawson confirmed that there is an average young age present, and offered his thoughts on why that exists. He also touched on training and lessons he has learned during his tenure as Chief regarding hiring trained officers versus training them through the department; training pools, salaries, climate and environment of safety and competitive pay.
Planning – Mr. Tim Terry asked about the area of construction on Highway 10 Spur where storage buildings are to be placed and inquired of Mr. Marsh what kind of tax revenue that brings the City, to which Mr. Marsh stated that Mr. Terry knows the answer to that. Mr. Tim Terry then asked Mr. Bell how that was approved, to which Mr. Bell indicated that the area is zoned commercial and whomever owns a piece of land can build something that they are allowed to build there that fits the zoning. Mr. Tim Terry and Mr. McDaniel inquired as to the option that the City might have to define its commercial zoning so that only tax-generating businesses are allowed to build in a commercially zoned area, to which Mr. Hamby said he does not have an answer to that but he will have one at next meeting and Mr. Tim Terry acknowledged that. There was additional discussion and Mr. Bell again clarified that the law is getting sensitive where selective building is concerned.
Council Forum Mr. Meeker inquired about Ms. Brandt’s earlier request for a parking lot and Ms. Briley displayed via her cellphone a previous rendering by MAHG for a proposed parking lot and park that could be developed adjacent to those buildings and showed it to the council members for reference. Mr. Buddy Loyd notified council that a community outreach is being planned by the Masonic Lodge to hold an ice cream and watermelon social hosting the fire, police and first responder departments coming up with a time and date yet to be announced. This prompted a conversation from Mayor Kinslow about consideration of the use of the Masonic Lodge parking lot in the event that it has to be relocated due to the location of the bypass in the future, in that it could possibly be used as public parking while not being used by the Lodge. Mr. Meeker mentioned the consideration of expanding the pipe size, at the City’s cost, when the waterline is built to provide access to the area known as the Burton Property; the Mayor agreed that the pipe referenced should be a 12” pipe. Mayor Kinslow praised the firefighters for the job they did in the recent fire and also praised the Water Distribution workers for the work they did in an emergency waterline break the night previous.
(Photo courtesy of the Greenwood Police Department)
Chief Dawson thanked the Street Department for fabricating a trailer to mount the radar sign atop so that it can now be moved around town to different locations. Chamber Director Bob Purvis announced the Teacher Appreciation Banquet to be held the coming Thursday at the high school. He praised Greenwood for its safety and good schools, and invited everyone to come show the teachers of the school how much they are appreciated at 11:30 at the school cafeteria; Mayor Kinslow called upon his wife, Pam Kinslow, to stand and be recognized for her 27 year teaching career; this was followed by applause.
Adjournment Motion to adjourn was made by Mr. McDaniel, seconded by Mr. Tim Terry; the meeting adjourned at 10:42 p.m.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas’ KJ Jefferson has been named to the preseason watch list for the Manning Award, which is presented annually to the nation’s best college quarterback.
The Manning Award, created by the Allstate Sugar Bowl in honor of the college football accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning, is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting.
Jefferson, who is one of 30 quarterbacks on the watch list, led the Hogs to a nine-win season in 2021 – their most wins in a year since 2011 – as well as their first New Year’s Day bowl game win since the 2000 Cotton Bowl. The Sardis, Miss., native started all 13 games at quarterback, completing 198-of-294 (67.3%) passes for 2,676 yards and 21 touchdowns.
The face of the Razorback offense, Jefferson threw just four interceptions on the year and completed 171 consecutive passes without an interception, the second-longest streak in program history. He finished the season as one of only five FBS quarterbacks to total 20 or more touchdown passes with four or fewer interceptions.
Jefferson also rushed for a team-leading 664 yards on 146 carries with six scores on the ground. He was one of eight FBS quarterbacks with 2,500+ passing yards, 20+ passing touchdowns, 500+ rushing yards and 5+ rushing scores on the year.
In an epic performance at Ole Miss, Jefferson completed 25-of-35 (71.4%) passes for 336 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 85 yards and three scores, accounting for six touchdowns – the second-most total in program history – in the high-scoring shootout. He became one of only six SEC signal-callers since 2000 to throw for 3+ touchdowns and rush for 3+ scores in a game, joining Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel, Mississippi State QB Dak Prescott, Ole Miss QB Chad Kelly, LSU QB Joe Burrow and Ole Miss QB Matt Corral.
Finalists for the Manning Award will be selected prior to the postseason, and the winner will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship. The winner will again be selected by a voting panel, which includes national media and each of the Mannings.
No. 19 Arkansas opens the season at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, against No. 23 Cincinnati on ESPN. Season tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here or by calling the Razorback Ticket Center at (479) 575-5151.
Note to Our Readers: This story was sourced from the University of Arkansas Office of Communications, Oliver Grigg, Assistant Director of Communications.
She’s young, but well past her years in business sense. Remington Lee, age 5, is a local artist who has found a market for her masterpieces.
The daughter of Tyler and Brittney, Lee has been influenced by her roots in entrepreneurship. “I sell soap at the Greenwood Farmer’s Market,” her mom shared. “She’s watched me produce it at home, making it, packaging it, shipping it. She comes to markets with me and helps me sell it.”
Lee, a student at Westwood Elementary in Greenwood, calls the Hackett area home. She has always had a passion for art and drawing. “She would come home from preschool with several pieces of artwork every day,” her mother added. “She wants to be a better artist, so we’ve tried to help her follow her interests. We’ve been to the library looking for kid’s drawing books and looked up Youtube tutorials to help her learn more about art. She’s very confident, and while she’s just starting out, she is very proud of her work!”
The two notions were bound to collide, the ability to sell and her passion for art. Lee informed her mother that she wanted to sell her artwork at the market. “We went through several iterations of mediums (different markers, canvases, papers, etc.) to find something she was pleased with. She’s a lefty, so finding a marker and paper combination that didn’t smudge was trial and error. I told her she had to have six pieces to set up a table, and she worked to create pieces with flowers, flags, butterflies, and unicorns. At the market she even drew a few pieces on demand, to replenish her inventory as she sold them.”
Her mother shared her ability to market her masterpieces, noting that “she can be a little forward, approaching people and asking if they want to buy her artwork. But while I think that’s a little too direct, most people want to support a young entrepreneur, so she’s had good luck at the market.”
Lee has big plans for the funds she generates from her art sales. These include a birthday trip to Dallas and a visit to the American Girl Doll store. Additionally, her parents have encouraged her to give some of her money at the church. “She gave this summer at First Baptist Church Greenwood’s Crazy Awesome Fun Camp, which went toward the church’s Acts 1:8 offering,” her mom concluded.
If you are interested in learning more about Lee’s art creations, you can find her at the next Farmer’s Market in Greenwood, on September 3 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Look for the SoapBop Soaps Booth. Lee sells most of her art pieces for $8. She also sells art on canvas.
Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office: Deborah Dawn Archer of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 17 at 12:44 p.m. and released on August 20 at 12:07 p.m. Archer was charged with Contempt of Court–(child support), FTAS, FTRespond Subpoena, FTComply WCO.
Jeremy Allen Brown of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 18 at 7:26 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 19 at 12:10 p.m. Brown was released from ADC – has previous charges they have not bonded on.
Jace Garin Chrisman of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 18 at 2:05 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 18 at 4:58 p.m. Chrisman was charged with petition to revoke felony.
Darren Raye Hutchins of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 17 at 11:23 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 17 at 1:53 p.m. Hutchins was charged with petition to revoke – felony.
Matthew Edward Murry of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 22 at 10:10 p.m. and released on signature bond August 23 at 11:03 a.m. Murry was charged with Theft by Receiving – Firearm (<2500).
Chelsey Brooke Kuykendall of Central City was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 18 at 12:16 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 18 at 8:39 p.m. Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree
Cherady Lane Phillips of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 17 at 11:20 a.m. and released on signature bond August 22 at 5:17 p.m. Phillips was charged with petition to revoke – felony, and failure to appear – class B misdemeanor.
Cody Houston Second Sparkman of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 19 at 7:51 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 19 at 11:59 a.m. Sparkman was charged with assault in the 2nd degree.
Megan Nichole Sparkman of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 20 at 10:13 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond August 20 at 10:52 a.m. Sparkman was charged with Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree – Tamper.
Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department: Jimmy Jay Junior Bridges of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 14 at 11:42 a.m. and released on cash bond August 14 at 4:39 p.m. Bridges was charged with two counts of Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.
Arresting agency – US Marshall: Joshua Keith Farnam of Subiaco was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 19 at 9:24 a.m. and remains at the SCADC on hold as a US Marshal Detainer. Farnam was charged with theft of property >$1km failure to appear – class B misdemeanor, and petition to revoke -felony.
Arresting agency – Barling Police Department: Valerie Raquel Greenbush of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 19 at 7:30 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Greenbush was charged with parole violation and absconding.
Arresting agency – Fort Chaffee Police Department: Kaen Nicole Jones of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 18 at 3:31 p.m. and released on bond August 18 6:24 p.m. Jones was charged with two counts of contempt – willful disobedience (failure to pay fine).
Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department: Nathan Wayne Mackey of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 16 at 9:48 a.m. and released on bond August 16 at 3:30 p.m. Mackey was charged with two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).
Arresting agency – Hackett Police Department: Debbie Antoinette Torres was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on August 17 at 2:16 p.m. and released on August 22 at 2:39 p.m. Torres was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.
Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office: Heath Bonczyk, 38 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 15 at 3:23 p.m. Bonczyk was charged with breaking or entering, theft of property, and violation of probation/suspended imposition of sentence.
Lonnie Mitts, 62 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 17 at 1:59 p.m. Mitts was charged with possession of firearm by certain persons.
Russell Wysong, 68 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 19 at 7:15 p.m. Wysong was charged with aggravated assault upon a law enforcement officer or an employee of a correctional facility, and fail to pay.
Letisha Bradley, 35 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on August 21 at 7:01 p.m. Bradley was charged with violation of a no contact order, domestic battering in the 3rd degree, disorderly conduct, aggravated assault upon a law enforcement officer or an employee of a correctional facility.
Aaron Klein, 40 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center August 22 at 5:31 a.m. Klein was charged with public intoxication and criminal trespass.
Charles Cundiff, 47 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center August 22 at 5:12 p.m. Cundiff was chargedwith failure to appear.
Annie Jeffries, 60 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center August 22 at 6:34 p.m. Jeffries was charged with two counts of aggravated assault, and two counts of domestic battering in the 3rd degree.
Sidney Muse, 33, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center August 22 at 11:52 p.m. Muse was charged with failure to appear.
Tabetha Emberson, 43 of Magazine, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center August 23 at 1:07 a.m. Emberson was charged with disorderly conduct.
**The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts.**
Kason Andrew Jacob Dedmon was granted his beautiful angel wings on 08/22/2022. His final days were spent at home surrounded by family and friends that he loved so dearly.
Kason’s life may seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of his life far exceeded the amount of time in which he lived. His radiant smile melted the hearts of those who knew him and even the heart of those who did not. Although he never spoke a word, his voice and thoughts could always be heard. He truly had an immense love for every person he met. The love he had for his parents radiated through his big brown eyes and through his breathtaking smile. He touched everyone who knew him in some way, throughout his short, yet very memorable life.
Although Kason’s illnesses made him appear frail, he possessed a strength unlike any other, perseverance, the ability to overcome incredible odds as well as so many physical challenges. With his courage and bravery, he led us to believe that each day is a blessing. Each and every day is also an opportunity to create priceless memories.
He spent many hours rocking with his dad in the recliner while cuddling his Momma and Daddy who loved him so much. He enjoyed old country music, watching The Greatest Showman, and eating cake although it was typically more icing than cake. He loved the sounds of Sunday morning services & always helped Brother Keith preach. He spent Saturday mornings with Dad watching College Game Day and calling those Hogs. He spent every evening cuddled up in the recliner with either his mom or his dad. Mom and Dad’s arms were one of the few places he could always sleep peacefully through the night. He enjoyed swimming in his pool with his baby brother and taking turns giving Mama and Daddy wet, slobbery kisses.
Kason also enjoyed playing with his best friends Caroline Tyson, Addie & Sutton Deramus, and all of the Raybourn kids. He loved riding the tractor at Boo and Pop’s! Kason enjoyed going to Mammaw & PeePaws house where he would be treated with DumDum suckers & fishing trips. Kason also loved being called “Boomer” and loved listening to the Oklahoma University Fight Song. He loved taking long fat naps with his MeMe and DoDo and riding the four-wheeler with Dan.
With Kason’s passing, we want to remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss him severely every day, especially his precious smile, he will remain forever in our hearts. Through his unintentional teachings about life, we were able to create wonderful memories that will last us a lifetime and it has been an honor to be his parents. We are so blessed to have been the parents of God’s greatest miracle.
Kason leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support that enhanced his quality of life. Kason’s love extends to his wonderful nurses Stephanie Tyson and Thina Raybourn. He will be dearly missed by his special caregivers at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, all of his therapists he met along the way, and his all of his friends we have met during Kason’s medical journey. All of these incredibly special people, too numerous to mention, provided Kason with love and dignity in his life and also in his death.
Kason is survived by his loving parents, Keith Allen and Kimberlee Dedmon of Mansfield, Arkansas and one brother Kaine of the home; paternal grandparents, Keith and Tracy Dedmon of West Hartford, Arkansas, paternal grandmother, Betty Jo Phillips of Greenwood, Arkansas, maternal grandparents Tim and Christi Combs of Parks, Arkansas, maternal great grandmother, Wathenia McCauley, maternal great grandparents, Harvey and Pat Combs, paternal great grandparents Eugene and Janice Dedmon and Buck and Mary Byford, aunts Trinity Combs of Waldron, Arkansas, Taely Dedmon of West Hartford, Arkansas, Mindy Combs of Nashville, Tennessee, Madison Allen of Lavaca, Arkansas, and Paige Hamm of Greenwood, Arkansas, uncles Seth Allen of Lavaca, Arkansas, Kyle Combs of Parks, Arkansas, and Duncan McCauley of Conway, Arkansas.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Henry Andrew “Andy” McCauley in which he was named after, great-grandfather Henry McCauley, cousin Kory Jacob Dedmon in which he was also named after and great-grandmother, Bob and Irma Dean (Kirk) Brown, great grandparents Sherill and Berthie Phillips and great great grandmother Betty Jo Frost and Brittnie Harrison.
Kason was loved and will be missed by MANY other cousins, friends, and family members.
Kason’s Celebration of Life service will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, August 26, 2022 at Waldron Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Keith Elmore officiating. Interment will follow in the Kirk Cemetery in Cauthron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.
Pallbearers will be Seth Allen, Garron Deramus, Kyle Combs, Roy Holtz, Dan Newman, Robbie Tyson, Chris Williams, and Cody Raybourn. Honorary Pallbearers are Kaine Dedmon, Keith Dedmon SR, Keith Dedmon JR, Tim Combs, Junior Newman, Waylon Deramus as well as all of the other friends & family members who loved and cherished Kason dearly.
Kason’s visitation will be Thursday, August 25, 2022 from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Kason to: Cure GRIN Foundation Arkansas Children’s Hospital GRIN1 Scholarship fund at Todays Bank in Mansfield, AR.
It was a big and raucous crowd last evening at Paris Gymnasium that came out to see the next class of Paris Lady Eagles volleyball. And the young Lady Eagles did not dissapoint; all of the preseason hype about the dramatic development of the team was on full display Tuesday evening. Paris played a spirited and exciting match, defeating the Russellville Lady Cyclones by the set score of 3-1. Paris easily won the first set and then dropped the second as the Paris coaches substituted freely, seemingly experimenting with different rotations and combinations on the floor. Paris came roaring back and decidedly won the next two sets to win the match.
Paris will host the Pulaski Academy Lady Bruins on Thursday at Paris Gymnasium. A junior varsity game will start at 5 p.m., and the varsity game will follow immediately afterwards. Watch for a recap on the Lady Eagles’ first week of the season later this weekend on the RNN online platform. Readers can go to residentnewsnetwork.com this Sunday to access this story at no charge. Logan County subscribers can now read the preview of next week’s Paris volleyball games in this week’s Logan County weekly newspaper. Persons interested in subscribing to the Logan County newspaper can go to the same address to subscribe to this rapidly growing and popular publication!
