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Arkansas public access to benefit from modernized Marine Fuel Tax Program

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Arkansas public access to benefit from modernized Marine Fuel Tax Program

Randy Zellers Assistant Chief of Communications

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission unanimously approved at today’s regularly scheduled meeting a minute order authorizing AGFC Director Austin Booth to sign an agreement with the Arkansas Department of Transportation to update the existing Marine Fuel Tax program to enhance public boating access to The Natural State’s waters.

“From the community perspective, the two largest things we provide to Arkansans are our game wardens and public access to land and water throughout The Natural State,” Booth told commissioners during committee meetings held yesterday. “This modernization can help us better serve Arkansans by not only broadening the aperture on how much money we can invest in this sort of access, but also broadening the aperture of what we can do.”

The Marine Fuel Tax Program was created in 1970 in cooperation with the Arkansas Department of Transportation and AGFC to collect a portion of taxes on gasoline purchases devoted to boats and devote those funds toward public access on Arkansas’s waterways. Traditionally, MFT funds could be used only on boat ramps, parking areas and roads devoted to those boat ramps. The money was administered by ArDOT after projects were approved by the AGFC. Local partners were required to contribute matching funds or in-kind contributions to ensure local commitment to the project was healthy.

According to AGFC Chief of Staff Chris Racey, the Marine Fuel Tax Program currently delivers about $1.7 million per year in these construction projects to Arkansans, but there are even more opportunities available.

“We’ve been able to deliver more than $65 million in access projects through this program since 1970, and that’s great, but the formulas used to generate those numbers are based on calculations made in 1967 when the program was being established,” Racey said. We all know a lot has changed since then in how our constituents use our public waters and in the benefits we can offer them.”

According to Racey, updated calculations developed by ArDOT engineers project the funding for the program could be close to $3.7 million per year.

“The inter-agency working team discussed a lot of things that have changed over time and potential needs that have developed for boating access users since 1967,” Racey said. “Recreational boats have much larger motors than in 1967. Additionally, we have boaters who use kayaks and canoes who load them up in the back of a truck or on top of an SUV and drive to those accesses. There are just a lot more ways fuel is being used for boating than the traditional model was designed for.”

The modernized agreement not only will increase the amount of funding for the Marine Fuel Tax program, but it will give the AGFC and its partners more flexibility in the way those funds are spent.

“We’ll now be able to look at other aspects of public boating access,” Racey said. “Things like restrooms, kayak launches, fighting aquatic nuisance species at boat ramps, bank stabilization projects and other projects that can improve people’s ability to enjoy our waters.”

Lastly, the new agreement would transfer the administration of Marine Fuel Tax funds to the AGFC, and would create a position within the agency to develop and track these projects. This will reduce the complexity of approving and administering MFT projects and provide an additional level of oversight and accountability for contractors engaged in these projects.

Booth spoke about the amount of work within both the AGFC and the Arkansas Department of Transportation to bring the modernization to fruition.

“We’d be remiss if we did not thank [former AGFC Director] Pat Fitts for his vision to take an existing asset that the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission had and shared with ArDOT and reinvent that to address the needs of the agency, but also the desires of Arkansans in the 21st century,” Booth said.

One project made possible by the previous Marine Fuel Tax program also was approved at today’s meeting. Commissioners authorized Director Booth to enter into agreements with the Arkansas Department of Transportation and NUCOR-Yamato Steel Company to construct a concrete boat launch ramp and parking facility at the current location of Barfield Access on the Mississippi River in Mississippi County. The project, which is estimated at $1 million, with the AGFC reimbursing up to $250,000, will fill a void in public boating access from the Arkansas side of the Mississippi River between Osceola and Blytheville.

During yesterday’s committee meetings, AGFC Real Estate Officer Kevin Mullen explained that access points on the Mississippi River are a priority not only for fisheries and angler use, but also for search-and-rescue operations conducted by the AGFC Enforcement Division and other first responders.

“There was a man that fell off of a barge near this access, and rescuers had to drive all the way to Osceola to launch a boat to be able to get to him,” Mullen said.

The Commission also authorized Director Booth to execute a perpetual conservation easement with Potlatch Deltic Timber to add a 160-acre inholding to Moro Big Pine Natural Area Wildlife Management Area in Calhoun County. The Commission also approved a $54,000 budget increase from the agency’s Stability and Enhancement Fund to complete the transaction and add this interior piece of property to public access in perpetuity.

In other business, the Commission:

  • Recognized six employees with a combined 125 years of experience for their service and dedication to the natural resources of Arkansas;
  • Heard from AGFC Fisheries Division Assistant Chief Jason Olive on the division’s forage fish production in 2021 (LINK TO PRESENTATION);
  • Heard from AGFC Nongame Mammal Program Coordinator Blake Sasse on the 2021 furbearer trapping and hunting report (LINK TO PRESENTATION);
  • Heard from AGFC Fisheries Division Chief Ben Batten on the division’s strategic plan update (LINK TO PRESENTATION);
  • Authorized Director Booth to execute a grant agreement with The Nature Conservancy for $25,000 to implement a pilot program in summer 2022 that will offer 16- to 18-year-olds from the Little Rock area opportunity to work on conservation, recreation and community-improvement projects and build backgrounds in conservation for future career opportunities;
  • Approved code clarifications for youth turkey bag limits and turkey season dates on wildlife management areas. These clarifications state that youths will be allowed only one legal turkey during the youth hunt on each WMA, matching overall harvest limits for those areas. These clarifications were read at the agency’s November 2021 meeting and have been open for public comment for 60 days;
  • Awarded retiring AGFC Wildlife Officer Sr. Cpl. Joe D. Purdom his service sidearm after 29 years of dedicated service to the people and natural resources of Arkansas;
  • Approved the removal of outdated and obsolete inventory with a total original cost of $152,815 and a present net book value of $7,447;
  • Approved a budget increase of $2.2 million for fleet purchases to replace 57 vehicles that will be sold at auction to reclaim a large portion of their replacement cost;
  • Approved a budget increase of $500,000 to update information technology infrastructure that has exceeded its expected reliable lifespan;
  • Authorized Director Booth to enter into a lease agreement with F5 Investments, LLC to lease an office facility in Mountain Home. The facility will serve as a temporary regional office location to improve working conditions for staff due to the current state of the previously leased office space. Commissioner Rob Finley recused himself from the vote and all discussions on the matter to prevent any conflicts of interest, as he is an officer in the LLC which will serve as the leaseholder in the agreement.

A video of the meeting is available at https://www.youtube.com/user/ArkansasGameandFish.

‘Club in a tub’ program provides resources for new and returning 4-H club leaders

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‘Club in a tub’ program provides resources for new and returning 4-H club leaders

By Rebekah Hall
U of A System Division of Agriculture 

Among the many things the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted, the passing along of leadership roles within organizations — 4-H clubs among them — can be one of the most difficult to navigate. 

To help new and returning 4-H leaders gain their footing within their respective clubs, Johnson County extension 4-H agent Jeanie Rowbotham designed “Club in a tub,” a new resource for 4-H club leaders containing information and tools.  

Rowbotham said she worked with Clark County extension 4-H agent Cindy Ham to create a tub that contains “everything you need for a club in one spot” and aids 4-H leaders in starting the new program year.  

“Right now, I think recruiting and promotion for clubs is such a big deal, more so than it’s ever been before, because of these last few years,” Rowbotham said. “I think the tubs make that easier, and it gives leaders a resource that has everything right in front of them, so if someone is interested in becoming a 4-H leader, they have something to go off. This gets them started, this helps them, and it takes a little bit of stress off them.”  

Rowbotham said it was important to ensure the tubs were self-contained and portable, as many clubs meet in shared conference rooms or community buildings. The clear tubs, usually used to store files, measure 18 ½ inches long, 14 inches wide and 11 inches tall. The tubs contain a variety of tools and information for leaders, starting with the basics: a 4-H and American flag set, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer and disposable masks, pencils, a stapler and tape.  

Each tub also comes with file folders that have “everything you would need to conduct your club meetings,” Rowbotham said. This includes the Arkansas Volunteer Guidebook, a laminated copy of the 4-H pledge, club charter forms and bylaws, the club ritual agenda and 12 copies of the monthly 4-H club agenda, promotional materials, registration information and forms to enroll or re-enroll club members, leadership information packets and a list of officers with a book of officer responsibilities. The tubs also contain icebreakers, project ideas, programming resources, game ideas and club songs.  

Rowbotham said she and Ham came up with the idea for the tubs around Christmastime because “there’s so much transition in leadership with clubs.” After brainstorming what should be in the tubs, they also consulted with new and longtime 4-H club leaders about what items should be added or taken out. The leaders suggested they add record books, which club members use to keep track of their community service, leadership and projects throughout the year, “so kids could get started on record books from the very beginning.”  

The club in a tub program is still in its beginning stages, and Rowbotham said she hopes to eventually expand it to provide club leaders in all counties with the resource. So far, only club leaders in Rowbotham’s Johnson County and Ham’s Clark County will receive tubs. Rowbotham said she and Ham have plans to discuss the program with their district directors and with Angie Freel, Associate Department Head for 4-H.  

Rowbotham said she is excited about the potential for the tubs to help smooth leadership transitions and provide a fresh start for returning leaders.  

“In 4-H, you always have lulls where you have a change of leaders and new clubs forming, but right now, it seems like all of our clubs are there,” Rowbotham said. “We’ve kind of been on pause, and we’re getting things back going, so I think it’s the perfect time to implement this.” 

For more information about getting involved with Arkansas 4-H, visit 4h.uada.edu/ or contact your county extension agent.  

Prepared to Die, Prepared to Live

Tammy Teague
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Prepared to Die, Prepared to Live


Four years ago I shared a devotional on my timeline. It was based on scripture found in Job, chapter 14. 

Verse 1-2, 5: Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble. 2 He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not. 5 Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months are with thee, thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass;

I had no clue that on this very day in January 2022, I would feast on those words. As most of you know, I lost my dad on December 15, 2021. I’m not going to lie, it has been the most difficult and trying time of my life. My dad was an amazing man. I know he is with Jesus and that gets me and my family through the difficult times. Times when the hurt seems so bad you feel as if you cannot go on.

The devotional’s passage of scripture has been very helpful to me during this very dark time. If anyone knew difficulties and trials it was Job.

If you are familiar with Job in the Bible, you know he was a man the scripture describes as “perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.” Job’s words shed great light on how fleeting this life really is. Not only is man not permanent – but his life is also filled with trouble. Job was certainly experiencing both of these realities.

Notice the metaphors that Job uses to portray the brevity of mankind’s lifespan. Job speaks of a flower. And it’s the kind of flower that springs up quickly. And then – whether it’s cut down or it just withers – it’s gone just as quickly as it appeared.

And then, Job speaks of life being like a shadow – something so temporary. Once the light changes its angle or when the object casting the shadow moves – it’s gone. No more shadow. Just like that. And Job is saying that life for humans is like this, temporary, and troubled.

Verse 5, states that God has determined the length of everyone’s life. God knows how long each man will live. It is a boundary of time to which no man can pass. So, God determines our days – how long we live. That’s all in God’s hands. And that time is ultimately so short. So short, in fact, that Job urges God to basically just leave suffering mankind alone until their short life – over which God has complete control – is finished.

So we know and understand that every man has an appointment with death. But is that it? Is it where a question mark or period goes in this story? No, my friend…let me assure you this is not the end. In fact, I feel so strongly an exclamation point belongs there!

In Verse 14, Job continues and he states that there is hope for a dead tree: 

7 For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease. 8 Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground; 9 Yet through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant.

The introduction of water is the game changer! That is where Job is going with the tree discussion – in contrast to the dead tree – a man who dies has no hope of coming back to life in his same old body. The old tree just comes back to life with its same form – but it doesn’t work that way for man.

Verse 10: But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he? If all you have to go on in this life is what the eye can see, then that last question that Job asks is where you’re left. When your loved one’s body ceases to function, where is he? Obviously, I cannot tell you beyond what the scripture states about being absent from the body.

2 Corinthians 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Being present with the Lord after death is an assurance to those who have drunk from the “River of Life.”

Preparing for death, which we know is assured, means we are prepared to live! Jesus is that life, and in Him we can be assured of an eternal home.

JR Lady Tigers Control Burns Past Acorn

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JR Lady Tigers Control Burns Past Acorn

The undefeated Mansfield JR Lady Tigers had their momentum rolling like a freight train in the first half of the season. The question was though, could they maintain that momentum and defeat a talented team like the Acorn Blue Tigers twice in one season? The Mansfield faithful didn’t have to cheat, study, or even Google the answer to that question after Tuesday, January 18th because the Lady Tigers gave the answer away with a 48-12 win over Acorn. 

The Lady Tigers knew the game against Acorn would be different than their last meeting due to two Mansfield starters being out, but that’s what makes this group so special. Where one falls, another steps in place. Acorn was able to get under Mansfield’s skin early with a tight man coverage on defense forcing the Lady Tigers to fight for every inch of court. With pressure comes the inevitable fouls and Mansfield gave the first points of the game away with an Acorn of a free throw. While the pressure was frustrating for Mansfield’s high-powered offense, they were able to use their larger size at the boards to make up for it. The Blue Tigers concentrated heavily on shutting down Kaylee Wards rebounding abilities on defense and held the Lady Tigers star to only 2 points of offense in the first quarter. By doing so, they left the other Super K, Kaylie Lowery, open to rebound the ball multiple times in the first quarter. With those rebounds, Lowery burnt Acorn with a slew of put backs for 6 points. Acorn was just too hard nosed for the Lady Tigers offense to get reeling though as Mansfield held a narrow 9-7 lead at the end of the first quarter.

mansfield-lady tigers-acorn-tigers-basketball

It didn’t take long for Mansfield to start figuring out the Blue Tigers defensive plans after the first quarter as the Lady Tigers exploited the weaknesses in Acorns pressure in the second quarter. Mansfield went on a fast paced 6-0 run on the Blue Tigers forcing Acorn to call a time out with 3:23 left in the half. After the time out, Laney Woods showed Acorn that the time out was all for not as she drilled a 3-point shot on the Blue Tigers right after play resumed. The Lady Tigers defense stepped up and began to show Acorn how it’s done with big blocked shots by Kaylee Ward, monstrous rebounds by Kaylie Lowery, and smooth steals by Trinity Triska. Triska and Shelbie Fuller even got into the offensive mix by knocking down a bucket each towards the end of the half as Mansfield went into halftime with an 18-9 lead.  

The Acorn Blue Tigers were frustrated coming out of halftime and their fouling showed it. The successor of those fouls was Kaylee Ward and the “Quarter of Ward” was born from there. Ward scored nearly every time she touched the ball in the third quarter as she swished 5 points in free throws, 6 points off layups, and defensively had multiple blocked shots and rebounds. Ward wasn’t the only one dominating the boards though. Azlynn Stover and Kaylie Lowery proved that rebounds are a basketball team’s food, and they came to eat a full backboard buffet. The Lady Tigers defense as a whole held Acorn to a mere 3 points in the third quarter as they entered the fourth quarter with a commanding 30-12 gap on the scoreboard against the Blue Tigers. 

With a large lead, Mansfield was able to see what hidden jewels they had who hadn’t hit the court yet against Acorn. There’s no exaggerating that Meghan Emery was the Coupe Deville hiding at the bottom on the Lady Tigers Cracker Jacks box in the fourth quarter. Emery found a way to hit shots that most physicist has yet seen as she exploded 10 points onto the scoreboard in the late in the fourth quarter. The scoring spree from Emery along with Kaylee Ward and Kaylie Lowery putting up 2 points apiece set the Lady Tigers up for the win, but it was the defense that closed things out. The Lady Tigers held Acorn scoreless in the fourth quarter which finalized the Lady Tigers victory with a commanding 48-12 final score.  

The win over the Blue Tigers brings the JR Lady Tigers winning streak to 16-0. Mansfield may be on quite the run, but they know all too well that they can’t let their guard down. Especially with their next game on Thursday, January 20th against their rivals, the Hackett Lady Hornets. Even though it will count as a non-conference game, a win against Hackett always counts for something to Mansfield.

Most Common Plumbing Problems for Homeowners To Recognize

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Most Common Plumbing Problems for Homeowners To Recognize

Everything wears out over time, especially frequently used things like a home’s plumbing system. As your system wears out, you may notice a few signs that certain fixtures need replacement, such as leaky faucets or damaged pipe systems. Whether you just bought your first home or don’t know how to deal with plumbing issues, you should learn more about the most common plumbing problems for homeowners to recognize.

Leaky Pipes

Both clogged drains and leaky faucets are usually easy to spot and repair. However, you could also have a leak in your pipe, which isn’t as easy to see. You may not be aware of the problem until noticing a spike in your water bill.

Often, pipe leaks occur due to corrosion, improper installation, joint damage, or cracking along the material. The longer you ignore this issue, the more damage you risk to your home. So do a water test to check for a leak. Then, call a plumber right away if you discover there’s a problem.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are another one of the most common plumbing problems for homeowners to recognize. This is because hair, soap, and other materials that wash down the drain build up within the pipe, which may mean slower drainage.

Pro-Tip

Avoid dumping items down the drain and only flush toilet paper. By washing things like grease down the kitchen drain, you increase the chances of clogging it and damaging the plumbing system.

Sewer System Backups

For many homeowners, sewer system backups are worst-case scenarios for several reasons. First, they can smell awful. Also, proper cleanup to keep the area hygienic isn’t cheap. Furthermore, you’ll have to hire a sewer line repair company to fix the pipe. Depending on the location of the break, the contractors may have to dig up your yard. Thus, it’s always best to call for an inspection the moment you suspect something is wrong within your home.

Low and High Water Pressures

Neither overly low nor overly high water pressure is good. Low water pressure often indicates that one of your pipes has a leak. However, high water pressure damages your home since it applies too much force to your plumbing system.

High water pressure could also cause problems with your water heater as the increase in pressure forces it to work harder. In most cases, your water supplier is the reason for increased pressure, as they pump out more water for the residents. Contact a plumber to prevent an at-home emergency if you notice high water bills, leaky faucets, or noisy appliances. It’s always best to be proactive!

SR Lady Tigers Go Nuts On Acorn

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SR Lady Tigers Go Nuts On Acorn

Since the Mansfield Lady Tigers entered the 2A in 2020, one team has been a thorn in their side. Acorn. The series was 2-1 in Mansfield’s favor last season with both teams winning on their home court and the Lady Tigers being victorious in the Regional Tournament. Tiger fans may be in for a second helping of that kind of basketball as Acorn embarrassed Mansfield at Acorn earlier this season but the Lady Tigers enacted revenge on their home court on Tuesday, January 18th with a 68-52 victory.

Both teams eyed each other in warmups as tensions came to a T at the tip off. Acorn won the tip and headed down court only to be denied points by the Lady Tigers defense. Kynslee Ward and Sadie Roberts took turns stuffing the ball back into Acorns shooters faces to gain an early jump on the Blue Tigers. With a passionate defense tearing up the court, Alyson Edwards decided some offense was due. Edwards hit back-to-back layups, drew two fouls leading to hitting 3 of 4 free throws, and then drained a 3-point shot to top it off. Sadie Roberts and Skylynn Harris took not and put up some points of their own with Roberts downing a layup and Harris dropping some air mail with a 3-point shot. With all of the aggression and heart on both sides of the ball, Mansfield still knew the fight wasn’t over as they closed the first quarter down 18-15 to Acorn.

mansfield-lady tigers-acorn-tigers-basketball
Photo courtesy of Saylor Steward

The Lady Tigers defensive aggression began to bite them in the tail early in the second half. Although the defense was still solid, mental mistakes and fouls started stacking up. This forced Mansfield to peel off their hardnosed pressure for fear of fouls and gave Acorn a chance to go all out with their offense. The Blue Tigers rattled off smooth shots to gain a six-point lead on Mansfield. That lead closed quickly in the closing minutes of the second quarters as all five of the Lady Tigers on the court got hot at the same time. Sarah Fisher stood string in the lane allowing an Acorn player to hit her drawing a charge. Fisher sank her free throw, and it was off to the races from there. Kynslee Ward, Skylynn Harris, and Alyson Edwards got a couple of easy backboard buckets while Natalie Allison tipped in two layups and sank two free throws. With just seconds left in the half, the Lady Tigers were up by one point but a foul right at the buzzer resulted in two made free throws by the Blue Tigers giving Acorn the 32-31 lead going into the half.

Mansfield started the second half playing lights out basketball. Fouls were no longer a concern for the Lady Tigers, giving Acorn all they could handle was the game plan from here on out. Kynslee Ward was crowned the third quarter rebound queen as she fought tooth and tail for every basketball that came off the backboards. With those rebounds, Ward found her teammates down court with precise passes for scores to get the stands on their feet. Alyson Edwards and Skylynn Harris were a couple of the benefactors of Wards passing for score, but it was Sadie Roberts who teed off on Acorn in the third quarter. Roberts, who was picked on by Acorn for most of the first half, had had enough and went to town on the Blue Tigers hitting two 3-point shots and four big time layups. Defensively the Lady Tigers were determined to force Acorn to submit as Natalie Allison swatted away an inbound pass and Sarah Fisher rolled on the floor fighting for loose balls. This was an all or none game and Mansfield showed they were out to take it all. Acorn was able to close in on Mansfield, but the Lady Tigers ended the third quarter with their first lead of the night with a 49-41 edge over the Blue Tigers.

The fourth and final quarter was all Mansfield. Skylynn Harris took the fourth quarter personally and began to blow lightbulbs out of the scoreboard hitting 10 points on the Blue Tigers. The Lady Tigers were so in tuned in the fourth quarter, that Alyson Edwards and Sadie Roberts made a Sports Center Highlight when Edwards was knocked down with a rebound by Acorn allowing ball to go into the air, Roberts was there to catch it midair for a layup. Even though the Lady Tigers had 9 fouls going into the latter half of the final quarter, they still played full tilt and didn’t let off the gas until the final buzzer sounded with a 68-52 final. Sadie Roberts led the team in scoring with 22 points in the game. Roberts wasn’t the only one to hit double digits though as Skylynn Harris drained 17 points Alyson Edwards hung up 16 points against the Blue Tigers. Natalie Allison and Kynslee Ward rounded out the scoring for Mansfield with a combined 13 points in the game.

The Lady Tigers have a three-win streak against conference opponents with big wins over Magazine, JC Westside, and a redemption win over Acorn. Going into the second half of the season, all eyes in the conference are on Mansfield as the Lady Tigers as they are the hottest team on the court. Next up on the Lady Tigers road to redemption will be a rematch against the Future School Lady Rockets. The Rockets shocked Mansfield earlier on in the season with a blowout over the Lady Tigers. But the Lady Tigers are playing like they’re capable of now so the outcome may not be the same this go around.

Ma’s Pecan Pie

Madison VanRavensway
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Ma’s Pecan Pie

It feels a little funny to be sharing a pecan pie recipe in January. There are no holidays in January where pecan pie is customary. But why does it have to be a holiday for pecan pie?

My husband gave me a funny look when I announced I was making pecan pie. But it’s not every day someone gives you shelled pecans like we had some sweet friends give us! He didn’t put up much of a protest just commented it was a little random for me to choose pie to make with the pecans. Random I am, honey.

After poking around on Pinterest I decided to text my mom and ask how hard it was to make a pecan pie. She answered back with my Ma’s recipe and a not hard, but haven’t used this recipe.

Now I live in my grandparents’ house, but I always feel closest to my Ma when I’m using one of her recipes in her kitchen. She passed away in 2020. It always puts me in a good mood to do. I was delighted to try out her recipe on this pie, and after trying I wanted to share. It’s so easy!

Ingredients-

-3 eggs, beaten

-1/4 cup white sugar

-1 cup brown sugar

-1/2 cup butter

-1 teaspoon vanilla

-1 level tablespoon plain flour

-1 cup pecans

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350*.

2. Beat eggs, add remaining ingredients and mix well.

3. Pour in uncooked pie crust. Bake for 30-40 minutes at 350*. Jiggle pan to see if done in middle, cook longer as needed.

Note- I didn’t want to roll out my pie crust. It looks very ugly. I am someone who should use a store bought crust but I wasn’t going to wait until I got one.

My Ma’s recipe!

The Advantages of a Shipping Container Hunting Cabin

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The Advantages of a Shipping Container Hunting Cabin

Not everyone is looking for the rustic, lodge-like experience in their hunting cabin. Some hunters are choosing to turn used shipping containers into function-forward shelters due to the unique assets these containers bring to the table. Let’s explore the advantages of a shipping container hunting cabin!

Long-Lasting Durability

Shipping containers withstand rough conditions during their time on the sea. This durability makes containers ideal for hunting cabins prioritizing function over form. Shipping containers of a high enough grade are air and watertight, protecting what you store inside from the elements. Containers are also often stacked on ships, meaning that the top of your container can easily carry the weight of falling litter during a storm. With proper maintenance, even used containers stand the test of time.

Extensive Customization Options

Once a container is on land, welders can transform the metal shell to better suit the needs of its owner. Customization options range from installing windows and doors to rough-in plumbing, electricity, and HVAC systems. These extensive customization options create a versatile tool for hunters of all kinds seeking a unique structure.

Significant Security Measures

One of the most significant advantages of a shipping container hunting cabin is designing a structure with security in mind. Unlike standard cabins, the very walls of a container act as a safety measure. Installed lock boxes and high-security doors allow you to protect yourself, your supplies, and your firearms. You can also use alarms and security cameras to secure your property effectively.

Overall Cost

While modifications can increase the total cost of your finished project, shipping containers remain an affordable option. Prices range depending on the container’s grade and quality as well, allowing buyers to find an option that suits their budget. You can expect to pay between $2,000-$4,000 for smaller containers in most areas. Compared to the construction costs and time investment of building a cabin from scratch, a shipping container cabin can make for a great alternative.

As with any structure, there are a few steps to keep in mind before purchasing your container. First, your local government might require permits for owning a temporary or permanent shipping container. Once you have any necessary permits, work with your shipping container company to ensure smooth delivery and lasting placement. Done correctly, your shipping container hunting cabin can act as a secure shelter for years to come!

From Essential to Collectors’ Items, the Basketball Shoe Has Come a Long Way in Last 100 Years

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From Essential to Collectors’ Items, the Basketball Shoe Has Come a Long Way in Last 100 Years

It is certainly no secret that basketball shoes are a hot commodity in the world-wide market, and that the highly-coveted items command increasingly higher prices every year. But for those of us who can remember, it wasn’t always this way. Not only in the prices that are commanded today, but in the comfort and protection that the high-tech shoes of today offer. In fact, people in my age range can remember wearing the famous “Chuck Taylor All Stars” that were little more than a small width of rubber foam soles covered in cotton canvas. The shoes felt a lot like wearing rubber sandals compared to today’s shoes.

Back in the day, players wore the shoes to play basketball almost exclusively. Scenes of players wearing the shoes, and then tying the laces together and slinging them over their shoulders when they left the gym are a picture of the past. In more iconic photos, the famous Olympian, Jesse Owens, is seen wearing the famous shoes that at his time were dubbed as the official shoe of the United States Olympic Team. The famous Chuck Taylors made their debut in 1917 and were later redesigned 100 years ago in 1922. Since that time, the shoe enjoyed immense popularity over the years, peaking in the 1960s and then declining in the 1970s when other brands, such as Adidas entered the market for basketball and athletic shoes of other sports. The Converse Chuck Taylors are still today a popular casual shoe in its low-cut style.

The shoes’ namesake, Chuck Taylor, was a semiprofessional basketball player who later turned salesman at Converse Shoes. Converse is now a subsidiary of Nike; change that took place in 2003 when Nike paid $309 million to acquire the historic brand. For those who played on the hardwood back in the day with the Converse legends, I am amazed that more players did not suffer more from shin splints and lower back paid due to the lack of shock absorbancy in the shoes. But for all of us who wore the shoes, we didn’t know any better…it was the best thing on the market at the time.

But with the growth of popularity of basketball, its players, and the star power that those players have brought to advertising, the prices of basketball shoes have shot up at meteoric heights over the years. In fact, in a top ten list of the most desirable shoes to be owned by collectors, the least expensive pair of shoes, according to the website, luxactic.com, is $2500.

The top ten list of most desired shoes, according to luxactic.com is:

10. Nike Air Force One: $2500

Image Credit: luxactic.com

9. Air Jordan XI: $2700

Image Credit: luxactic.com

8. Addidas Golden KBB: $3000

Image Credit: luxactic.com

7. Air Jordan V: $10,000

Image Credit: luxactic.com

6. Nike Air Mag: $12,000

Image Credit: luxactic.com

5. Air Jordan I: $25,000

Image Credit: luxactic.com

4. Nike Air Zoom Kobe 1: $30,000

Image Credit: luxactic.com

3. Air Jordan VI: $35,000

Image Credit: luxactic.com

2. Air Jordan III: $50,000

Image Credit: luxactic.com
  1. Reebok Question: $65,000
At a value of $65,000, the Reebok Question is the most expensive basketball shoe on the market (Image Credit: luxactic.com)

The old supply / demand principle elevates these iconic shoes and brands to the prices they command by collectors. Fans of the game are more than willing to pay exorbitant prices for the celebrity endorsed shoes, and, perhaps, that is a topic for another story. I remember taking my son to St. Louis to watch the Cardinals play a regular season baseball game. We had pretty good tickets, and I took him into the stadium as soon as the gates opened. I couldn’t wait to point out some of the players on both teams that I followed and who someday might enter the baseball hall of fame. As I pointed out who the players were, I will never forget; he was more impressed with the shoes they were wearing than the players themselves!

But one thing is clear, we all have a price we are willing to pay for both name brand and popular shoes, especially those who are big fans of the game. And our player heroes that endorse the shoes make them even more attractive to buyers. And the market charges whatever it thinks we are willing to pay; and we have given the market the impression that we will pay a lot of money for these shoes.

For me, it will be a long time, if ever, that I will pay anywhere close to the price of even the least expensive model in this story. But, that is me…the last of the big spenders!

Tigers “Escape” Johnson County with Win over Westside

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Tigers “Escape” Johnson County with Win over Westside

The Mansfield Tigers travelled to Johnson County Westside to take on the Rebels for their Homecoming.  The Tigers had not had a road game in 36 days, as they stayed at home for the Bill Frye Invitational, during Christmas Break, and their game against Mountainburg had been postponed to a later date.  The Tigers came home with a conference road win! 

Peyton Martin got the night started off with a 15-foot jumper for the Tigers but Ashton Yarbrough would answer on the following possession for the Rebels.  Miles Lingar would hit a free-throw for Westside with 5:28 to go in the first quarter.  Braxton Byers would score a lay-up to give the Tigers the lead, 4-3, at the 4:30 mark.  The Tigers would never lose the lead from this point.  Ethan Pettus would score the next basket for the Tigers but a turnover and score from Yarbrough would get the Rebels back within a point.  Zayne Dugan would score back to back buckets for Mansfield and extend the lead to 5, with 1:30 left in the quarter.  Hunter Holman would create a turnover and race to the other end for a lay-up, to cut the lead back to 3.  Dugan would add another basket to push the lead back to five.  After a quarter of play, the Tigers would lead 12-7. 

Westside’s David Gregory would score the first basket of the second quarter and cut the Tiger lead to three.  But on the ensuing possession, Tyler Escalante would knock down a three-pointer extending the lead to six.  The Rebels would use a 5-0 run, with baskets from Holman and Gabe Hickey and a free-throw from Dakota Beavers.  Peyton Martin would stop the Rebel run with a three pointer off an E. Pettus assist.  Pettus would extend the lead back to six after a steal and score but Holman would get an and one opportunity for the Rebels on a transition basket.  The last 1:45 of the quarter was a defensive battle with the halftime score being 20-17, in favor of the Tigers. 

The Rebels would start the second half off with a D. Beavers basket to cut the lead back to one.  The Tigers would use a 4-0 run to extend the lead back to five, with baskets from Dugan and Clint Stovall.  With 4:23, Yarbrough would add a basket for the Rebels and a free-throw from Lingar would make the score 24-22, half way through the 3rd quarter.  This would spark a 7-0 run for the Tigers, with a free-throw make from Drew Elmore and Stovall.  Stovall would add a three point basket, and a putback from Zach Hayslip, would give the Tigers their biggest lead of the night, 31-22.  Carson Hurst would score his first basket of the game for the Rebels but Stovall would add two free-throws to net the 33-24 lead to end the 3rd quarter. 

The Rebels would start the 4th quarter with a basket from Beavers and a free throw from Holman.  Pettus would make two free throws to get the lead back to eight.  But four free-throws over the next few minutes would get the Rebels within four points, 35-31.  With 3:25 to go in the game, Beavers would cut the lead to two.  Zayne Dugan would score the Tigers only field goal of the fourth quarter on a putback shot.  With 2:24 to go in the game, the Tigers clung to a four point lead, 37-33.  Gregory would get a turnover for the Rebels and cut the Tiger lead to two with 1:09 remaining.  The Tigers would score the rest of their points from the free-throw line.  With the score 40-37, Yarbrough would score a reverse lay-up for Westside.  Ethan Pettus would add a free-throw for the Tigers and net the final score of 41-39.  Westside had a chance at the buzzer but Beavers attempt missed off the front of the rim. 

“I thought our guys played extremely hard tonight.  They made the last run but we made just enough free-throws down the stretch to escape with a win.  We overcame an off-shooting night and turnovers with a solid defensive effort.   We have to come back and get ready for Acorn on Tuesday.”  said Coach Brown.

Mansfield: Z. Dugan (10), E. Pettus (9), C. Stovall (8), P. Martin (5), T. Escalante (4), Z. Hayslip (2), B. Byers (2), D. Elmore (1)

Westside: A. Yarbrough (8), H. Holman (8), D. Beavers (7), C. Hurst (5), M. Lingar (5), D. Gregory (4), G. Hickey (2)

The Tigers will take on the Acorn Tigers on Tuesday at home.  The Jr Girls, Sr. Girls and Sr. Boys will play with a 5:00 p.m. tip.

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