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What is Geocaching

Madison VanRavensway
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The first time I heard about geocaching was in eighth grade. If you are from Waldron you probably have heard of our since teacher who we affectionately referred to as “Momma Hill”. I couldn’t tell you why she told us about geocaching, if it was part of a lesson or just something we were discussing. But I remember thinking it sounded so neat to track down these things called “caches” that were logged by GPS coordinated. And then I sorta forgot about it, and never checked it out.

Fast forward a few years, and a friend suggested an article on it after her and her husband picked up the hobby. She is in a different state and I thought to myself I bet this isn’t a popular thing in Arkansas, will I even be able to find any caches here?

Yes. Yes, I will.

Geocaches around Waldron, AR

Caches come in a variety of sizes, and can be hidden wherever. Cemeteries are common places, but I’ve also noticed road signs are common places around this area. Many have logbooks, and some have big enough containers to take and leave trinkets. To find caches around you there is a geocaching app to download.

An look at the app I have in the App Store.

In the app are GPS coordinates as well as a hint to help you find the caches. Along with the physical logbook most have with them, you can log your find in the app to let others know if you found it and the condition.

Geocaching may be the perfect new hobby for you in the new year! Get your app and your eyes ready and head out to search for the next cache. Maybe we will see each other out caching!

What To Expect From a Career in Firefighting

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What To Expect From a Career in Firefighting

When people think of everyday heroes, firefighters are some of the most iconic examples around. Not only are their uniforms a symbol of safety, but firefighters are typically the first on the scene for all emergencies, not just fires. If you have an interest in exploring a career in firefighting, then allow us to explain what to expect from a career in firefighting.

Duties of a Firefighter

While the first and foremost duty of a firefighter is to, as the name suggests, combat fire, you can expect to be responding to other emergencies as well. Day or night, firefighters are on-call to respond to fires, rescue operations, and provide medical assistance. Furthermore, even if you are responding to a fire, there are likely victims who need to receive medical attention or could be trapped within the building. This ability to assist across multiple types of emergencies is why firefighters are held in such high regard, but it can be a bit grueling to have to respond to so many emergencies.

Training Regimes

Exercise is certainly something to expect from a career in firefighting. From carrying and operating heavy equipment to enduring long periods of physical strain, firefighters need to be in top form to perform their jobs. For this reason, training regimes to get you in shape will be the norm so that the weight of your own gear doesn’t immediately exhaust you.

The second part of the training regards academia. You’ll go through training at a fire academy to learn procedures, practices, and more, but you can also opt to get an EMT certification to become more desirable to fire branches you are considering.

Firefighting Equipment

We mentioned the equipment you’ll be carrying a few times now, but what does that involve? First and foremost, personal protection equipment for firefighters is the most important and vital equipment for you to become familiar with. You can’t help anyone if you aren’t properly protected first. After that, you need to know what kind of gear and tools you’ll need depending on the situation. For example, when responding to a building fire, doorstops are a handy tool to have on hand, while responding to wildfires may require digging tools to help control the blaze.

Things To Consider Before Installing a Pool

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Things To Consider Before Installing a Pool

A swimming pool can provide hours of entertainment for many people on a hot day. They’re a great addition to any backyard—but before you call any company to purchase one, take time to read these things to consider before installing a pool.

What Type of Pool Would You Like?

Would you like an above-ground or in-ground pool? If you’re leaning towards the luxurious in-ground pool, consider these three main types: concrete, vinyl-lined, and fiberglass. Take time to create a pros and cons list of each kind. Consider your swimming pool budget and the amount of space you have available in the backyard.

Think About How Much You Can Maintain

A properly maintained pool can be valuable to your home, especially when selling. On the other hand, a pool that is poorly maintained pool can decrease your property value. Consider hiring a certified pool technician if you’re worried about how much time you’ll have available for daily maintenance. They’ll keep your pool sparkling clean and in working order for years to come.

Who Will Be Using the Pool, and What’ll They Use it For?

Asking yourself questions about the pool’s use before installation is essential. Do you have young kids who’ll grow up using it? Do you have teenagers who’ll enjoy many pool parties? Or do you want the swimming pool specifically for relaxation after a long day? Your intentions will influence the rest of your plans; they provide clarity about the pool’s size and its features.

For instance, if your family and friends enjoy water games such as volleyball and basketball, you’ll need a shallow end in the pool. Deep ends, on the other hand, are great for diving and exercise. You could install a slide if you want.

What About Zoning Laws?

Typically, pool companies know the zoning laws, but it won’t hurt to do some research yourself before you hire a company. Different neighborhoods and municipalities have zoning laws regarding the size of the pool and the amount of water it can hold.

After you’ve installed your pool, the excitement can begin. Remember pool inspections and continued maintenance! If a friend or family member is contemplating a swimming pool, show them these things to consider before installing a pool so they can make an informed decision.

Key Advantages of Using LED Panel Lighting

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Key Advantages of Using LED Panel Lighting

LED lighting has a slew of advantages, especially in a professional setting, where quality, cost, and flexibility are all important considerations. Furthermore, this type of lighting looks great and provides an amazing quality of light. Whether you’ve chosen edge-lit or backlit panels for your space, here are the key advantages of using LED panel lighting.

Long Life Span

Most LED bulbs last between 35,000 and 50,000 hours on average. They achieve this longevity by avoiding the use of any heating elements and having no moving parts in their construction. The best aspect is that these bulbs will never fade or flicker, and they’ll deliver continuous, clear light at a consistent brightness. With their extended life spans and high efficiency, LED lights are clearly significant improvements over older lighting systems.

Extreme Efficiency

Because one of the key advantages of using of LED panel lighting is LED bulbs’ great efficiency, many businesses use this type of lighting to save money. The bulb technology is what makes these lights so much more efficient than others. This technology reduces the amount of power that gets converted to heat energy by up to 90%, allowing the bulb to create light with up to 90% of the power supplied. Other lighting methods are more inefficient because they might waste up to 40% of the energy they utilize through heat radiation. Some older bulbs require this to function effectively, but LEDs do not require heat or any other heated source to emit light.

Safe Construction

Unlike traditional lighting systems such as halogens and incandescent lights, LEDs do not rely on glass or harmful materials such as mercury to function. The lack of such materials reduces numerous safety concerns, such as exposure to dangerous substances or the risk of being cut by a shattered bulb’s glass.

No Noise or Distractions

LEDs will never flicker, screech, or generate obnoxious buzzing noises like some older lighting systems. They give clear, constant, and quiet illumination. Furthermore, most LED lights can change color tones, allowing you to dim the brightness of the lights to meet your individual needs in any workplace.

Lady Tigers Slip Past Mulberry

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Lady Tigers Slip Past Mulberry

The Senior Mansfield Lady Tigers took their first round of the Bill Frye Classic sponsored by Today’s Bank as if they were the third Tiger in line for Noah’s Ark when they tipped off against the Mulberry Yellow Jackets on Tuesday, December 28th. With an already slim roster of ten players, the Lady Tigers were short an additional three players for their matchup against the Yellow Jackets. Mulberry may have had more numbers on the bench, but at the end of the game the Lady Tigers had more numbers on the scoreboard as Mansfield scratched out a 40-35 victory.

The Lady Tigers jumped to an early lead with Sadie Roberts winning the jump ball followed by a quick Alyson Edwards layup. Mulberry quickly stole the momentum and the lead when the Yellow Jackets sunk a big three-point shot.  While the floor was heating up with aggression, the rims remained cold as the first quarter ended with Mansfield hanging onto a narrow 14-8 lead.

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Someone must’ve hit rewind as the second quarter commenced as Mansfield started off hot with Skylynn Harris sweeping the ball from the Yellow Jackets followed and after a few passes, Harris drained a three-pointer. Kynslee Ward was a wild child defensively in the second quarter by blocking shots, stealing the ball, and making Mullberry jam out of the Yellow Jackets offense. It was the Lady Tigers defense that kept them in the game as exhaustion slowly crept down on them. The Lady Tigers kept their offense going just enough to go into halftime with a 23-13.

It was very apparent that Mansfield was feeling rough coming out of halftime. The Lady Tigers started the second half off with back-to-back turnovers, three missed shots, and three fouls while Mulberry began to heat up offensively. Alyson Edwards broke the scoring woes with a free throw which lit a slight flame under the Lady Tigers tails. Natalie Allison snagged a steal and score, Harlie Fuller slipped by the Yellow Jackets for a steal, Seven Sanderson stuffed a Yellow Jacket layup, and the Mansfield defense forced a backcourt on Mulberry. All was going well with the Lady Tigers until disaster struck. Kynslee Ward stole the ball and flew down the court and lost control of a pass. As always, Ward fought tooth and nail for the ball all the way to the floor when she was landed on by a Mulberry player. Mansfield hung on to a 34-25 lead as the third quarter came to a close.

The Lady Tigers free fall didn’t stop as Mansfield fouled on their first possession of the fourth quarter giving them their 7th team foul. Shortly after, Sadie Roberts caught her fifth foul, cutting the Lady Tigers’ already small roster to just five players for the rest of the game. With their backs against the wall, Mansfield bowed up. The game was solely on the shoulders of Skylynn Harris, Natalie Allison, Alyson Edwards, Harlee Fuller, and Seven Sanderson. The Fantastic Five knew they had to get gritty and boy did they do it. The Lady Tigers defense continued the heavy pressure on the Yellow Jackets forcing Mulberry to not have any clear shots. Both teams nickel and dimed each other until the final minute where Natalie Allyson stretched the Lady Tigers lead to three points. As time closed out, Mulberry had to foul, sending the Lady Tigers to the free-throw line. Mansfield shooters dropped their shots through the net to win the game 40-35.

Alyson Edwards led the team in scoring with 16 points against Mulberry with Skylnn Harris racking up 13 points in the game. Sadie Roberts and Natalie Allyson both put up 4 points apiece while Kynslee Ward swished two free throws to round out the Lady Tigers scoring with 2 points. With the tough victory in the bag, the Lady Tigers will advance to the winners bracket in the Bill Frye Invitational where they will face Shiloh at 5:15pm on Friday, December 29th. One thing is for sure, so long as the Lady Tigers have even a single player left suited up, they’ll be playing their hearts out to win it all. 

Bulldogs Win First Round of Bill Frye Invitational

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Bulldogs Win First Round of Bill Frye Invitational

Heading into Christmas break the Bulldogs veered off course with back-to-back losses against Cedarville and Lavaca. This brought the Dogs recorded to 10-6 and 2-1 in conference play. Looking to get back on course, the Dogs would face the Vian Wolverines in the first round of the Bill Frye invitational sponsored by Today’s Bank.

The Dogs started off the game playing very sloppy. Coach Atchley substituted in two whole groups before allowing his starters to come back into the game. Thankfully, the Wolverines were sluggish too and the two teams only combined for 11 points in the 1st quarter. After getting the starters back onto the court the Dogs began to full-court press and create turnovers allowing Trenton Hunt to convert an and-one opportunity, and Ethan Mayberry to get another layup to fall to end the 1st quarter with the Dogs up 6-5.

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The offensive struggles continued in the 2nd quarter for the Dogs as they only scored 3 points. Upset again, Coach Atchley substituted in a whole new 5, but that group was not getting it done either. Vian was getting every offensive rebound and the Dogs could not buy a shot. The starters eventually got back in the game, and Hunt added a layup before the half to make the score 9-14 advantage Wolverines.

Coach Atchley must have given his squad a stern talking to during the break because after halftime it was all Dogs. The Dogs came out in a full-court press that was giving the Wolverines a fit. They could not get the ball past halfcourt and allowed the Dogs to go on a 9-0 run to put the Dogs up with a score of 18-14. “Fish” McConnell and Hunt did all the scoring during the run as McConnell converted two put-back layups and Hunt added an and-one and a floater. After a bucket by Vian, McConnell would bury a 3-pointer to put the Dogs up by 5. To end the quarter, the Dogs got easy baskets in transition from steals in their press defense. Camdon Holcomb, Chris Lopez, and Hunt were each able to add a layup to make the score 27-19 Dogs advantage. The duo of Hunt and McConnell brought the Dogs back into the lead as they combined for 14 points in the 3rd quarter.

To start the 4th quarter, Drew Owens knocked down a 3-point basket and allowed the Dogs to resume their pressure. Vian was still having problems getting the ball down the court as the Dogs were forcing turnovers left and right. After a layup by Hunt, the Dogs were up 34-23, but the Wolverines were not ready to give up yet. They went on a 6-0 run to get them within 5 with a score of 34-29. The Dogs would answer though as they would go on a 10-0 run to put the game away. The run included two-point baskets from Hunt, Mayberry, Holcomb, and McConnell. With Vian forced to foul, Lidge Stinson would make six free throws in a row to make the final score 50-34 Bulldogs victory.

Hunt led all scorers with 21 points and 5 rebounds. “Fish” McConnell added 10 points and Stinson had 6.

The Bulldogs will travel back to Tiger Stadium on Wednesday, December 28 to play the Pocola Indians at 4:00pm in the second round of the Bill Frye Invitational.

Obituary – Richard J Holmes (1980-2021)

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Obituary – Richard J Holmes (1980-2021)

Richard Jefferson Holmes of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Saturday, December 25, 2021 in Waldron, Arkansas. Richard was born June 16, 1980 to Leonard Ray Holmes and Tina Annette (Gray) Holmes in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was 41 years old.

Richard loved working on vintage trucks and being a mechanic. He enjoyed playing the guitar. He loved taking care of his two girls and his dog Yode and cat Trigger. Richard loved his home and his family.

Richard leaves behind to cherish his memory, two daughters: Vivian Cordelia Holmes and Hollie Annette Holmes, his parents Leonard and Tina Holmes all of Hon, Arkansas and one brother Robert Ray Holmes and wife Jamie of Ft. Smith, Arkansas as well his nieces and nephews, Amaya, Mazie, Laden and Bentley. Richard will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of extended family, friends and neighbors.

Richard was preceded in death by his grandparents: Loyd and Lucille Holmes, Helen Gray and step grandfather Freeland Ruthloff and IT Buddy Gray.

Richard’s family will hold a private memorial celebration of life at a later date.

AG ALERT: Rutledge Warns of Skyrocketing Energy Prices During Winter Weather Season

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AG ALERT: Rutledge Warns of Skyrocketing Energy Prices During Winter Weather Season

LITTLE ROCK – In the coming weeks and months Arkansas will likely experience colder temperatures and Arkansans will unfortunately be looking at significant increases on their energy bills from years past. Lower temperatures mean heating units are working overtime, and more money will be draining from pocketbooks thanks to the previous winter weather spikes, inflation, supply chain issues, cancellation of the Keystone pipeline, and the halt of oil and gas drilling. Arkansans have already seen a rise of prices from gas to groceries and the next surge of prices will affect home energy during the winter months. Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is urging all Arkansans to take precautions to prepare their home and finances from the challenging winter ahead.

“Financial trends indicate that Arkansans can expect skyrocketing price increases this winter,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “President Biden has failed us in not only governing, but stopping our nation’s ability to be self-sufficient in energy and Arkansans will feel the impact this winter with high heating bills.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to keep energy costs low throughout the colder months.

  • Use a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when no one is home. Some newer models can connect to smartphones providing access regardless of location.
  • Seal cracks or holes around the home by weather-stripping doors and windows and adding insulation to walls, the attic and crawlspace to prevent loss of heat.
  • Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise to recirculate rising hot air.
  • Make sure baseboard heaters, air vents and radiators are unobstructed.
  • Service the heating system at least once a year to ensure it is operating properly.
  • Consult with a licensed plumber regarding potentially wrapping the water heater in a water heater insulating blanket and turning down the temperature to the warm setting.
  • Close the vents and doors to rooms that are not being used.
  • Keep air filters clean and replace regularly.

Many Arkansans burn wood as a heat source, while other consumers heat with liquefied petroleum gas. Gas users should consider signing a long-term contract with a provider in order to lock in a specific price over a set period. Homeowners should also assess consumption needs and order propane refills prior to the current supply running out. Other heating sources like space heaters require caution and must be located away from flammable materials and can often impact energy costs. The Department of Energy reports that space heaters account for about 45 percent of energy bills in average U.S. homes.

Other tips and resources are available at EnergyEfficiencyArkansas.org, a partnership between Arkansas utility companies and the Arkansas Energy Office. For more information about navigating utility costs and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.

Discovering the Women’s Outdoor Network

Madison VanRavensway
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Discovering the Women’s Outdoor Network

The Women’s Outdoor Network (WON) started in 2007 in Central Arkansas. Ending 2021 with over 1,000 members this group is carrying out its mission to provide a safe place for women who are interested in outdoor pursuits to connect to like minded women, share their experiences, plan outdoor adventures together and put their skills to use.

WON has grown to have groups in six areas of the state- West Central AR (The closest for most of us, based out of Fort Smith), Northeast AR, South AR, Southwest AR, and Northwest AR. West Central AR has about 430 members heading into 2021.

Women interested in outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, hunting, boating, and any other outdoor activities will find kindred spirits. The WON is changing the narrative, and allowing women to venture into the outdoors together. No longer are these things dominated by men, women are showing they are just as capable and can enjoy it just as much.

The best thing about the outdoors is they are available to everyone. Despite the availability, not everyone may share your passion. WON exists to connect women with that passion together. It’s the perfect place to find a girl friend to hike or catfish with.

If you are unfamiliar with the skills needed to do the activities you are interested in, or looking for a new hobby the meetups are great for those. In the past year the West Central group has taught squirrel hunts that ended with how to cook the kills. Trips to waterfalls, kayaking, and campouts were just a few of the events organized by the group this year.

Each group has a coordinating Facebook group for sharing about upcoming meetups and just general outdoors talk! Every month there is also an outdoor challenge to encourage members to get outside and explore on their own. Most events have no cost involved and are open to any woman who would like to attend.

Get into the outdoors with WON in 2022!Check out the West Central Arkansas WON Facebook group.

Special thank you to Karen Westcamp-Johnson for answering my questions and providing the photo.

Obituary – Shirley June Morgan Kerlin (1938-2021)

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Obituary – Shirley June Morgan Kerlin (1938-2021)

Shirley June Morgan Kerlin of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with her Lord and Savior, Sunday, December 26, 2021 in Waldron, Arkansas with her loving family by her side. Shirley was born June 5, 1938 in Blackfork, Arkansas to John Thomas Burnett and Elizabeth Beatrice (Formby) Burnett. She was 83 years old.

Shirley was a kind, warm and gentle woman. She was welcoming to everyone she met. Shirley enjoyed working and being outside. To know Shirley was to know her love and devotion to the Lord. Her strength, her faith and her belief was evident in her daily life. She shared the gospel with everyone she crossed paths with. A true testament of a Godly person. Shirley loved her family and treasured time spent with them.

Shirley leaves behind to cherish her memory, her children: Denise Pittard and husband John of Albertville, Alabama, Tonya Morgan of Waldron, Arkansas, Butch Morgan and wife Leanne of Waldron, Arkansas and Johnny Morgan of Calico Rock, Arkansas. NANNIE will forever remain in the hearts of her 21 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren Shirley will be missed by all that knew her and the many whose lives she impacted including a host of extended family, friends and neighbors she loved dearly.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, JT & Bea Burnett, her husband Don Kerlin, one daughter, Penny Elizabeth Morgan, one son, Lee Anthony Morgan and grandchildren, Trey Barker, Ginger, Fawn and Dawson Morgan.

Shirley’s life celebration will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the Mt. Moriah Church in Hale Town, Arkansas with Butch Morgan & John Pittard officiating. Interment will follow in the Union Hill Cemetery in Union Hill Arkansas.

Shirley’s pallbearers will be grandsons: Bobby John Hunt, Jacob Morgan, Colter Morgan, Gage Morgan, Gunner Morgan, Morgan Barker and Zed Barker.

Shirley’s visitation will be Tuesday, December 28, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas. 

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