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The Biggest Risks That Farmers Need To Know

Many people have the wrong idea about farming. It’s not always soaking in the sunshine and tending to animals. In fact, farming can be a very dicey job if you don’t know what you’re doing. This piece will overview the biggest risks that farmers need to know to be successful.

Production Risks

The first gamble farmers face is classified as production risks, which tie to the possibility that the farm’s yield will be lower than the baseline projections that have been made. Luckily, there are ways farmers can increase crop production. Some of these ways include diversifying by growing different craps, buying crop insurance, adding mitigating procedures like irrigation and drainage, and upgrading equipment to increase yields.

Marketing Risks

Marketing risks are next up on the list. Farming is a very competitive business, and these risks include increased competition, changing preferences among consumers, or changes in wholesale buyers who change the basic terms of purchasing. The best way to deal with these is to have an effective marketing plan. The tactics involved may not be all that different from those applied in other businesses, but there are some pertaining to harvests that are specific to farming.

Financial Risks

It should come as no surprise that financial risks also come into play. These, too, are similar to many of the risks in other businesses, such as cash shortfalls, falling short of profit projections, increased costs, changes in interest rates, and so on. Financial plans are the obvious solution to this, and once again, many of these will sound familiar to any business owner. But it is possible to purchase farm revenue protection plans unique to farming, and some farmers actually seek off-farm employment to get benefits like health and life insurance.

Legal Risks

Many people aren’t aware that farming is a business conducted largely through contracts, and any time contracts come into play, some risks come with them. These include liability and breach of contract, so it’s important to know the legal basics that apply to farming and hire a lawyer familiar with how they’re applied.

Environmental Risks

Finally, environmental risks are an important element of farming as well. The obvious ones relate to issues like water quality, the level of pesticide use, and soil erosion, especially when this last factor affects crop yield. Fortunately, there are established practices to deal with environmental risks, but they are one of the biggest risks that farmers need to know if they will to be successful.

MMS 8th Grade Students of the Month

We would like to recognize our December 8th grade students of the month! Each month, teachers nominate a male and female student for their hard work and their positive attitude displayed throughout the school day.

The young man that has been selected as the 8th grade student of the month is Caiden Ore. Caiden has great manners, is respectful, and helps other students with their classwork. His favorite subject is math and his future plans are to become a mechanic. When not at school he likes to fish, play football or play video games. He loves eating pizza rolls while watching, “Free Guy”.

Delilah Gass is the 8th grade female student of the month. Delilah is a quiet student who thinks creatively. Her sense of fashion is unique and cutting edge. Her favorite subject is science. During her free time she enjoys drawing, crocheting and sleeping. Favorite food is Cookie and Cream mocha ice cream and watermelon.

We are extremely proud to have such great students at Mansfield Middle School, and we are even more encouraged by the positive impact their parents are making in their lives. These students continue to lead their peers by being positive examples. They will be greatly missed next year!

Congratulations Caiden and Delilah!

Obituary – Gary Charles Sanderson (1946-2022)

Gary Charles Sanderson, 75, of Dayton, Arkansas, went to be with his Lord and Savior and reunited with his loving wife Patricia Ann Hope Sanderson on January 21, 2022. Gary was born September 12, 1946 in Dayton to Charlie and Mabel Foote Sanderson.

Gary retired from SWEPCO/AEP after 40 devoted years and was a member of the Arkansas Valley Antique Tractor Club. He was of the Assembly of God faith and had many Christlike qualities. To know Gary was to love him, and one could never walk away from a talk with him without feeling exhorted and truly heard, no matter the conversation or situation. Gary loved to love others, and it showed to literally every person he happened to meet. He lived to brighten another’s day and exemplified the Scripture that commands us to “rejoice when others rejoice”. His encouragement will be missed by so many.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann, daughter-in-law Jama Sanderson, parents Charlie and Mabel Sanderson, and sister & brother-in-law Kendra & Carroll Elmore.

Gary is survived by his children Brian Sanderson, Chris Sanderson & wife Brandi, and Dana Sanderson Buckner & husband Jeff, as well as bonus children J.D.& Bobbie King, Jared & Jamie King, and Jason & Holly King, two sisters Kay Voss & husband Sam and Karen Coyle, and brother Lynn Sanderson. He was blessed to be called PaPa by his grandchildren Tristian-Lyn Buckner Coe & husband Justin, Haylee-Danielle Buckner Koenig & husband Patrick, Garyn Sanderson, Bri and Seven Sanderson, Dru and Zachariah Buckner, as well as his bonus grandchildren Ally, Bella, Matt, James and Kaleb King. Gary loved spending time with his great-grandchildren Paizlee and Asher Coe and was anxiously awaiting two more coming this year; Colston Coe and Evelynn (Evie-Mae) Koenig. Gary is also survived by a host of extended family and friends that he treated as family.

Visitation will be Friday, January 28, from 5:00-8:00 pm at Martin Funeral Home in Mansfield, AR. Graveside service will be Saturday, January 29, at 10:00 am at Union Ridge Cemetery in Dayton, AR.

Pallbearers will be Garyn Sanderson, Bri Sanderson, Dru Buckner, LaJohn Jones, Tony Jones and Tim Cumbie. Online condolences may be sent at http://www.martinfuneralhomes.com

The Benefits of Having a Metal Roof Installed

Your roof is a crucial feature of your home. After all, it provides shelter, structural stability, and beauty to your exterior. That’s why it’s so essential to select your roofing material carefully. And if you ask us, metal roofing is one of the best options on the market. Don’t believe us? Take a moment to scan this quick guide on why metal roofs are so beneficial. You’ll be glad you did.

Durable and Long-Lasting

The benefits of having a metal roof installed begin with its durability and longevity. In fact, traditional asphalt’s overall life span pales in comparison to that of metal roofing materials. When installation and maintenance are performed correctly, standard metal roofing can last 25 to 50 years. And if that isn’t impressive enough to convince you, higher-quality metal materials such as standing-seam and aluminum shingles are durable enough to last well over 50 years. Plus, some roofs comprising zinc and copper can outlast any other material, with a life span of 100 years.

Energy-Efficient and Eco-Friendly

Don’t let the myths and misinformation about metal roofs being harmful to the environment fool you. Because the truth is, metal roofs are among the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly options on the market. Because they have a design that allows high emissivity and reflectivity, metal roofs deflect much of the heat and light that comes from the sun. This means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to keep up in the summer months. And of course, this leads to much lower electricity and energy bills.

Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly, as they’re typically made with a minimum of 25 percent recyclable materials and are 100 percent recyclable. So the benefits of having a metal roof installed should be obvious here.

Speedy, Easy Installation

Of course, when it comes to the installation itself, you can’t beat the benefits of a metal roof. The materials’ dimensions and lightweight composition make them very easy for contractors to handle. Moreover, most metal roofing materials come with multiple shingle sections or panels. This makes them easy to handle and carry, and it also means they’re easier to install. As a result, contractors won’t have to spend nearly as much time on the installation, and you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of your gorgeous, durable new roof much sooner.

MHS EAST Classroom Completes Little Library Book Box

The Mansfield High School EAST Classroom has completed the Free Little Library Book Box which is located in the downtown square next to the Mansfield Police station. The project was started in the 2019/20 school year but was delayed due to the pandemic. The students partnered with Donorschoose.org and received over $300.00 in books to be placed in the book box. The EAST students goal was to help our community by providing free books to children in the area. Studies have shown that children who own their own books do better academically in school. A child who is surrounded by books has a better vocabulary and increased awareness and comprehension.

The EAST Classroom would like to thank everyone who donated to the DonorsChoose campaign providing books to the children in our community. We would like to give special thanks to James Jones for constructing the box, Beverly Jeffery for consulting the group on starting a Free Little Library, Coach Tim Cothran for helping the students install the box, and Rhianna Wagner for assisting in making the sign.

The beginning phase of the Little Free Library is to give away books to students in our community from preschool to 6th grade. The free books have been placed in the box and are ready for area children to pick one out and keep. Please limit each child to one book so that many children can receive a book. 

The 2nd phase will begin when all the childrens books have been given away. The box will then be used for all the community to borrow and bring new and gently used books. If you have books that you would like to donate to the Free Little Library please bring them to the Mansfield High School Office for the EAST Classroom. If you have any questions you may reach Mrs. Annette Smith at asmith@mansfieldtigers.org or 479-928-1105. 

MMS 6th Grade Students of the Month

We would like to recognize our December 6th grade students of the month! Each month, teachers nominate a male and female student for their hard work and their positive attitude displayed throughout each school day.

The young man that has been selected as the 6th grade student of the month is Jakob Morris. Jakob is outgoing and a hard worker in class. He has such a big heart and truly cares about his friends. His favorite subject is math and he hopes to one day play in the MLB. When not at school, he likes to play outside or video gaming. His happiest memory is when he made a friend at school.

We are extremely proud to have such great students at Mansfield Middle School, and we are even more encouraged by the positive impact their parents are making in their lives. These students continue to lead their peers by being positive examples. We look forward to watching them grow over the next several years. 

Congratulations Jakob!

MMS 5th Grade Students of the Month

We would like to recognize our December 5th grade students of the month! Each month, teachers nominate a male and female student for their hard work and their positive attitude displayed throughout each school day.

The young man that has been selected as the 5th grade student of the month is Zach Miller. Zach has a smile that will light up the room. He stays on task and challenges himself to do his best every time. His favorite subject is math and after graduation he hopes to join the military. When not at school he likes to play soccer. Favorite meal is spaghetti which he eats while watching Star Wars.

Braylee Meyers is the 5th grade female student of the month. Braylee is quiet but super sweet. She is always eager to help the teacher or other students. Her favorite subject is also math and hopes to get all A’s through school. During her free time she enjoys playing outside and swimming. Her happiest school moment was Christmas break.

We are extremely proud to have such great students at Mansfield Middle School, and we are even more encouraged by the positive impact their parents are making in their lives. These students continue to lead their peers by being positive examples. We look forward to watching them grow over the next several years. 

Congratulations Zach and Braylee!

Chemical Free Cleaning

My husband says I’m a hippie. I always say I’m just part hippie. But I do like using natural things whenever possible.

The need to find alternative cleaners from things I had in hand came from my bad shopping skills. It would come time to clean the bathroom and I would realize I was out of cleaner. When I would run out I would fail to put it on my grocery list because I would jump to my next task. Overtime I’ve migrated to new cleaning products.

My favorite things to clean with are distilled water, vinegar, and baking soda. Occasionally I throw some bleach in the mix to make sure everything is really disinfected, but that’s mostly just on the toilets. For the most part, though I use those three basic cleaners.

What kind of vinegar is best? There are probably a dozen different kinds of vinegar, one of them is specifically called cleaning vinegar. White vinegar has an acidity of 5, while cleaning vinegar has an acidity of 6. The acidities are close, but the difference in cleaning is 20%, making cleaning vinegar much more effective. I’m sharing this simply so readers can make an informed decision. Because I always buy and have white vinegar, its what I clean with.

Baking soda- baking soda is excellent for making a paste out of, it can decrease in the kitchen, and remove soap scum in the bathroom. I use it on my shower and tub, and flush down the drain with vinegar to help remove any clogs. To really clear the drains follow up with a pot of boiling water.

Vinegar- for my mop water, kitchen sink and counters, and toilets I use vinegar. Additional uses you may not have thought of are descaling coffee makers, deodorizing and removing tough foods from food processors.

Distilled water- I love cleaning with steam. I own a handheld steamer and a steam vacuum mop. The handheld steamer I use to clean my microwave, refrigerator shelves, stovetop, kitchen sink, mirrors, bathroom sinks, toilets, and anything else that I can throughout the house. I have different nozzles and attachments for each room to keep it sanitary. My steam vac is excellent for everyday, and with three messy kids 4 and under some form of maintenance mopping is necessary everyday.

Chemicals are sometimes necessary, but can be hazardous and prolonged use could result in damage to yourself or others. There’s nothing wrong with using store bought cleaners, but it’s always nice to know there are alternatives for those that prefer them.

Obituary – Ricky Edmond Thompkins (1962-2022)

Ricky Edmond Thompkins of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Tuesday, January 18, 2022 in Waldron, Arkansas.  He was born August 27, 1962 in Waldron, Arkansas to Lester Thompkins and Emma Lou (Starr) Green.  He was 59 years old.

Ricky grew up in and around the Waldron area. He graduated Waldron High School and went on to pursue a career at a vocational technical college. He worked as a diesel mechanic but he loved working on cars.

Ricky leaves behind to cherish his memory, his mother Emma Green of Bentonville, Arkansas, his father Lester Thompkins of Mena, Arkansas, one sister, Sheila Cox of Bentonville, Arkansas, one brother Michael Thompkins of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Ricky will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of extended family, friends and loved ones.

Ricky was preceded in death by his grandparents: Evelyn and Audie Starr and Gladys and Clarence Thompkins.

Ricky’s life celebration will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 22, 2022 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Jimmy Pope officiating. Interment will follow in the Duncan Cemetery in Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Ricky’s pallbearers will be Roy Bailey, Dominic Jones, Chris Thacker, Darrel Thacker, Leonard Thacker and Aaron Cox. Honorary pallbearer will be Dale Bailey.

Ricky’s visitation will be Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Let’s Talk About Miscarriage

In 2016 I got pregnant for the first time. The test popped positive almost immediately. We were elated and terrified. We had only been married a few months, but being a wife and momma was my dream. I had already checked the first box and I was eager to check the second.

At roughly nine weeks pregnant I started bleeding. The little baby inside of me wasn’t growing, I was losing the pregnancy.

We were so excited we had already announced we were expecting. And for a little bit after the ultrasound showed there was no baby, I couldn’t bring myself to fully share we lost the baby. It was an odd limbo.

When we decided we had to share our loss, I found out just how common miscarriage is. I learned how many people I know that have experienced this sort of loss, but I didn’t know they had.

Miscarriage is hard. But no one talks about miscarriage and how to cope which makes it harder. It’s hard to know why the pregnancies don’t survive because it ends so rapidly. And then expecting mother’s are left with empty arms and people around them who have no idea how to provide support because, again, we don’t talk about miscarriage.

I fully believe everything happens for a reason. It may not feel like there’s a good enough reason for a lot of things, but there’s always some reason. Once I got out of the fog and depression I endured following the loss of my first baby I realized we need to talk about the babies who don’t make it earth side, and maybe that’s why I went through it.

An estimated 1 in 4 women experience miscarriage. The number isn’t exact because of the number of pregnancies lost before they are found out about. That’s a lot of women who have felt this pain.

So, what can you do for a friend having a miscarriage?

-Listen to them.

-Talk about the baby, or don’t talk about the baby. Follow the parent’s lead.

-Remind them it’s okay to grieve. Please don’t say it could be worse. You don’t tell someone who loses their adult child it would be worse if they had 40 years with them instead of 20. Mommas do not need to hear that it’s better that they lost the baby at 9 weeks and not 39 weeks. They still lost their baby.

-Bring food, offer a helping hand, childcare, etc. just like you would for any other loss close to the family.

-Share your stories if you relate. Knowing the emotions I was feeling were normal was very helpful for me.

I have three beautiful, healthy children. I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world. But my baby, my River, will always be my favorite what-if, and I will always wonder who they could have been.