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Mansfield Early Childhood ABC Santa Letters

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11:57 am

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Mansfield Early Childhood ABC Santa Letters

Mrs. Deanne and Mrs. Danielle’s Class

Dear Santa,

My name is Clifton and I am 5 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a tv, spongebob robot, Patrick robot, Patrick phone and case and a Santa gift.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Clifton

Dear Santa,

My name is Easton and I am 5 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a tv, a WII, a Santa toy, some balls, a window and a frog toy with AA batteries

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Easton

Dear Santa,

My name is Everly and I am 5 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a Santa teddy, a Santa sticky note and a Santa blanket.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Everly

Dear Santa,

My name is Harriet and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a magic tree racecar, a grinch toy, a big Christmas tree and a big helicopter toy.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Harriet

Dear Santa,

My name is Hezekiah and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year I would like a water bottle, a t-rex toy, and more toys.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Hezekiah

Dear Santa,

My name Hope am 5 years old. This year I have been maybe both,nice and naughty. For Christmas this year, I would like a rocking unicorn.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Hope

Dear Santa,

My name is Kayden and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like racecars, Santa, ketchup and mustard

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Kayden

Dear Santa,

My name is Kylah and I am 5 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a horse, candy canes, barbie dolls and a makeup set.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Kylah

Dear Santa,

My name is Liam H. and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like an RC car, Nike’s and a new phone that’s real.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Liam

Dear Santa,

My name is Lizzie and I am 5 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like cookies, donuts and Paw Patrol toys.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Lizzie

Dear Santa,

My name is Louvik and I am 5 years old. This year I have been naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like candy canes, cookies and candy.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Louvik

Dear Santa,

My name is Mason and I am 4 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like toys.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Mason

Dear Santa,

My name is Orion and I am 4 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like Spider-Man web shooters, Spider-Man costume and a mask.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Orion

Dear Santa,

My name is Parker and I am 4 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a makeup set, a Minnie Mouse kitchen and barbie dolls.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Parker

Dear Santa,

My name is Raelynn and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a batteries for my toy dog, new makeup and a new kitchen toy.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Raelynn

Dear Santa,

My name is Silas and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a Spider-Man car, a Flash car and a Shadow car.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Silas

Dear Santa,

My name is Wrett and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a trackhoe and a scooby-doo.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Wrett

Mrs. Darla and Mrs. Rachel’s Class

Dear Santa,

My name is Colston and I am 3 years old. This year I have been naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a crane truck, a blue present, a BIG TRUCK! And a MONSTER car.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Colston

Dear Santa,

My name is Amaya and I am 4 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a cake, a robot toy-maybe 2, Elsa robots, and a turtle.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Amaya

Dear Santa,

My name is Amyra and I am 4 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a pink car, a new toothbrush, Christmas decorations and nails-Halloween style!!

Love,

Amyra

Dear Santa,

My name is Braelynn and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like Frozen toys, Wednesday toys and my own thing.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Braelynn

Dear Santa,

My name is Brynlee I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like pony cookies and a unicorn

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Brynlee

Dear Santa,

My name is Willow and I am 4 years old. This year I have been naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a baby, markers, play-doh and white paper.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Willow

Dear Santa,

My name is Sage and I am 7 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a control car, paw patrol pillow, a Christmas tree and some new cars.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Sage

Dear Santa,

My name is Weston and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a present with a helicopter, Christmas tree-I need 2, a turkey I can eat and a bigger helicopter.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Weston

Dear Santa,

My name is Lakelyn and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a Wednesday toy, Elsa toys, Elephant blanket like Emma and Play-doh

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Lakelyn

Dear Santa,

My name is Raegan and I am 4 years old. This year I have been naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a camera, a radio with microphone, a mouse and a buggie.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Raegan

Dear Santa,

My name is Paisley and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a ninja toy, a new costume, pink and red colors and play-doh.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Paisley

Dear Santa,

My name is Zaiden and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a toy robot, spiderman car that turns into a robot and a ninja costume with toys.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Zaiden

Dear Santa,

My name is Barnabas and I am 2 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a dino that roars, a car and packets

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Barnabas

Dear Santa,

My name is Emma and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like toys, a princess, a unicorn and play-doh.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Emma

Dear Santa,

My name Scarlet am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a tablet, a secret Halloween party, a big house and a baby with pink play-doh.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Scarlet

Mrs. Emily and Mrs. Tristian’s Class

Dear Santa,

My name is Walker and I am 3 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like the grinch, pop, pizza and slime

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Walker

Dear Santa,

My name is Jaxon and I am 3 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a fishing pole, t-rex, legos, robux, a toy phone and something to color!

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Jaxon

Dear Santa,

My name is Ellison and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like an airplane with a controller, a racing car, a Christmas present and a xylophone.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Ellison

Dear Santa,

My name is Lucas and I am 7 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a Christmas present.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Lucas

Dear Santa,

My name is Peyton and I am 3 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a tree, candy, a toy and a hug!

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Peyton

Dear Santa,

My name is Kaylee and I am 6 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a new house, a “jumpoline” and a ball.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Kaylee

Dear Santa,

My name is Kahmarri and I am 3 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a a dump truck and playdough.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Kahmarri

Dear Santa,

My name is Xavier Cole and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a dragon, cars, a road they can drive on and a monster truck with cars.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Xavier

Dear Santa,

My name is Hartlyn and I am 3 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a kid phone, a little bunny rabbit and a puppy dog.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Hartlyn

Dear Santa,

My name is David and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like hot wheels and monster trucks!

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

David

Dear Santa,

My name is Jaddex and I am 3 years old. This year I have been naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a monster car!

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Jaddex

Dear Santa,

My name Jayce Marcotte Charles and I am 4 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would like a big gun and a motorcycle.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Jayce

Dear Santa,

My name is Penelope and I am 3 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like unicorn toys, 3 shirts, some paint, play-doh, paper and a new phone.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Penelope

Dear Santa,

My name is Amelia May and I am 3 and a half years old. This year I have been NICE! For Christmas this year, I would like more barbies(2 of them), and a dinosaur car.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Amelia

Dear Santa,

My name is Jace and I am 4 years old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year I would like a Christmas present, a lot of them.

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Jace

Dear Santa,

My name is LaineyLynn and I am 1 year old. This year I have been nice! For Christmas this year, I would like a barbie, a jingle bell, colorful shoes, 2 more rooms and a new Santa jacket

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Laineylynn

Dear Santa,

My name is Liam B. and I am 3 years old. This year I have been maybe both, nice and naughty! For Christmas this year, I would likeHot Wheels and a Mario Hot Wheels truck

Merry Christmas Santa

Love,

Liam B.

Students fill Commission meeting with passion and pride

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11:56 am

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Students fill Commission meeting with passion and pride

Jill McMahan and students from East Pointe Elementary talked about their quest to become one of the AGFC’s designated Schools of Conservation Leadership. AGFC photo by Mike Wintroath.

Students from three Arkansas elementary and high schools attended the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s monthly meeting at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center to talk about their experiences being a part of two growing educational efforts in the AGFC: the School of Conservation Leadership Program and the Generation Conservation Summit, which took place Nov. 5-6 in Hot Springs.

Third-grade Teacher Jill McMahan and students from East Pointe Elementary in Greenwood spoke about their experiences as East Pointe has worked this year to attain the AGFC’s School of Conservation Leadership designation.

“This program has really lit a fire with a bunch of our kids,” McMahan said. “It has definitely been a learning opportunity for us.”

To achieve a School of Conservation Leadership designation, schools must accomplish a variety of tasks that incorporate some of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s many educational offerings focused on conservation and outdoor recreation. AGFC programs such as Archery in the Schools, Fishing in the Natural State and Schoolyard Habitat are all keystones in the program, and all have been adapted to ensure they are aligned with Arkansas educational standards.

East Pointe jumped in with both feet this year; all grades had at least one teacher involved in conservation and outdoor recreation curriculum as well as their special education instructors and leadership team.

“We even got our school resource officer involved. It really was a whole school effort,” McMahan said.

The school has already applied for grants to the National Rifle Association to acquire archery equipment and an Arkansas Environmental Education Association mini-grant to start a butterfly garden.

“We really want to develop that butterfly project into a pollinator garden, and we want to create another garden to develop a seed-to-table project to show our students where their food comes from and get them eating more vegetables,” McMahan said.

Students from East Pointe spoke about some of the activities they’ve enjoyed so far and what they were looking forward to completing. Growing plants, shooting a bow and participating in a fishing derby next spring were a few of the top items students were excited to explore — all components of the School of Conservation Leadership designation.

Much of the curriculum presented to Schools of Conservation Leadership was put to the test this year with the inaugural Generation Conservation Summit, a two-day event filled with competitions spanning all aspects of the AGFC’s conservation mission.

According to Mary Beth Hatch, chief of the AGFC’s Education Division, the initial goal for this year’s Generation Conservation Summit was to have 75 schools represented between the 22 on-site competitions and five pre-conference competitions completed at the schools.

“Our goal was 75 schools; we saw 110 join us in Hot Springs,” Hatch said at a briefing on Wednesday. “We had over 1,000 students competing during the two-day event, and had 60 vendors and partners present.”

Hailey Robinson spoke about her experience at the summit, where her students at Lincoln High School dominated the events and earned first-place overall in the high school division. Robinson, who teaches life sciences and outdoor education, said the programs offered by the AGFC and brought to her school have made a real difference in her students’ lives, both in academics and real-world applications.

“These kids won’t be the lost generation,” Robinson said. “We are outside and we are unplugged, at least a few hours every week.”

Jhett McLavey, a junior at Lincoln High, said the outdoor education program has changed the way many students look at science and how it fits into their communities and daily life.

“It makes science real and reachable, and gives students the chance to learn strengths they didn’t know they had,” McLavey said. “Some of my classmates have even been inspired to explore careers in environmental sciences, biology and conservation because of this program.”

Rainey Yeager, Mt. Judea Elementary school counselor, also brought a few of the students who participated and excelled at the summit.

“We live in one of the most beautiful places in the country, but sometimes we forget to stop and appreciate it,” Yeager said. “This is what this program has reminded us and our students; how special our home really is and that they belong in conservation and outdoor leadership…. It wasn’t just a competition for our students, it was a door opening, a big one.”

Deke Whitbeck, president of the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, added to the excitement surrounding the summit, announcing the creation of the Bob L. Martin endowment, thanks to a generous donation by the Fisher Family Foundation. The endowment, named after former Commissioner Bobby Martin, will enable schools to apply for and receive grants to offset expenses related to attending the summit in the future.

Martin, who was in attendance, said the summit and endowment were far beyond his expectations in its initial year and that he’s excited to see how much it grows in the future.

“Serving as a commissioner is still one of the most meaningful things I’ve done in my life,” Martin said. “I don’t know another state or foundation and its agency that’s come close to doing what you’ve launched with the Summit. This and Arkansas’s lead will be transformative, not just for Arkansas but the nation in conservation education.”

In other business, the Commission:

Heard from Darrell Bowman, recreation and access coordinator, who gave a thorough presentation on the many ways various AGFC divisions support outdoor recreation tourism and public access to the outdoors throughout the state.
Recognized U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Assistant Regional Director Paul Wilkes, who presented Matt Warriner, assistant chief of wildlife management for the AGFC, with the Conservation Partnership Award for his leadership of the Federal Aid Working Group on behalf of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs, benefitting wildlife, sport fish and their habitats as well as public access both nationally and throughout The Natural State.

Recognized Chad Warner from PRADCO Outdoor Brands, who updated the commission on the current state of the fishing industry and PRADCO’s investments in Arkansas’s outdoors.
Recognized Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation President Deke Whitbeck, who updated the Commission on the Foundation’s fundraising efforts and progress on the revitalization of exhibits at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center.
Authorized AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock to complete a permanent property easement over approximately 0.40 acres within Camp Robinson Special Use Area and Stone Prairie Wildlife Management Area to Mid-Arkansas Utilities to build and maintain an underground water line across the property.
Authorized Director Schoenrock to execute all documents needed to accept a 0.39-acre easement and a 0.12-acre easement on the Little Missouri River at Gilmer Bridge in Pike County to be used as a public access area on the south side of the river off Pike County Road 153.
Authorized Director Schoenrock to execute all documents needed to execute a permanent right-of-way easement on 2.8 acres at Bell Slough Wildlife Management Area for the construction and maintenance of overhead power lines through the area.
Authorized the removal of a building on Harold E. Alexander Spring River Wildlife Management Area from commission inventory.
Authorized a budget increase of $23,000 to the capital outlay budget from existing operations and maintenance funds to purchase hardware needed for satellite internet service at the Fiocchi Shooting Sports Complex in Mayflower and the Jim Hinkle Spring River State Fish Hatchery at Mammoth Spring.
Authorized a budget increase of $227,000 to the FY2025-26 agency budget from the Stability and Enhancement Fund to pay for demolition and removal of the remains of the Jonesboro Field Office that burned earlier this year and design services for a similar replacement building.
Authorized Director Schoenrock to enter into and amend the agency’s subgrant agreement with the University of the Ozarks to provide $202,500 of available federal funding through unobligated federal Wildlife Restoration Program and Hunter Education funds for its ongoing shooting range partnership with the university. The AGFC has already committed to helping fund up to $2 million in matching funds to construct an outdoor public shooting facility with a combination skeet, trap, pistol and rifle range on university property in Johnson County.

A video of the meeting is available on the AGFC’s YouTube Channel.

State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Terry Rice

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11:52 am

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State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Terry Rice

LITTLE ROCK – In 2023, the Arkansas Legislative Council set aside $200 million for the construction of a new state-of-the art, Arkansas State Crime Laboratory (ASCL). The legislature approved requests totaling $19. 4 million for the architectural designs, purchase of the land and to cover contractor costs. In September 2025, the Legislative Council’s Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review (PEER) Subcommittee approved $131.9 million for construction and building costs. The Arkansas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the umbrella agency for the crime laboratory and as good stewards of the state’s money the new building is projected to come in approximately $48 million under the original projected cost of $200 million.

The current crime lab moved into a building at #3 Natural Resources Drive in Little Rock in April of 1981. It shared the building with the Arkansas State Police until 1997 when they moved to their new headquarters in southwest Little Rock. The laboratory then took over the 80,000 square foot building. However, it quickly outgrew the space.

According to the ASCL, the number of deceased Arkansans has increased by 25% in the last two years. Furthermore, the state’s forensic capabilities have fallen behind mainly due to the fact the current crime lab is more than 40 years old. Limited space and outdated infrastructure have made the job harder. In many cases two employees working in a space meant for one, and lab and administrative duties are carried out in the same small and cramped areas. The laboratory plays a critical role in public health and safety and the new building will improve and expand the space needed to transform forensic work across the state.

The new building is expected to be completed by July 2027 and will be three stories tall, 190,000 square feet and sit on 19 acres in North Little Rock. It will more than double the current capacity. The facility will allow the lab to advance its technology and expand its capabilities. Plans include implementing rapid DNA testing at law enforcement booking stations across the state that will help improve turnaround time and statewide coordination. In addition to lab functions, the new facility will create opportunities for public engagement, training, and education. Officials hope these upgrades will not only improve service delivery but also strengthen partnerships with communities and law enforcement across the state which is invaluable to their work.

DPS has made a conscious effort to significantly boost salaries for lab employees to the established labor market rate to attract qualified candidates and retain them. In fact, two new forensic pathologists were recruited to the crime lab in October, marking significant advancement in forensic science in Arkansas, addressing the nationwide shortage of board-certified forensic pathologists. Across the United States, there are only about 800 board-certified forensic pathologists despite an estimated need for nearly twice that number. By securing two top-tier recruits, ASCL is strengthening its capacity to serve the citizens of Arkansas while setting a new standard of excellence.

4-Hers focus on leadership, service at National 4-H Congress

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11:50 am

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4-Hers focus on leadership, service at National 4-H Congress

DELEGATES — Thirty Arkansas 4-Hers represented the state at National 4-H Congress in Atlanta. (UADA photo)

Thirty Arkansas 4-H members had much to be grateful for over the Thanksgiving break: the opportunity to attend National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, the premier leadership event for senior 4-H members.

The event, held Nov. 28 – Dec. 2, brought together more than 900 4-H members from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Arkansas’ delegation included 4-H members, 4-H staff, extension agents, and volunteers from 15 counties.

“Congress provides opportunities for skill development, service learning, and exploring how 4-H works in other states,” said Debbie Nistler, head of Arkansas 4-H and Youth Development for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “Italso provides opportunities to explore careers within their project passions and beyond.”

Benton County 4-H member Brooklyn Luedecke said 4-H Congress inspired her to not only better herself as a leader, but also to help others become leaders.

“It was a very meaningful trip because I got to see how much other leaders from across the nation care about 4-H and how they also want to better the program in their communities,” said Luedecke, whose main 4-H project is leadership. “My favorite memory from Congress was getting to meet people from other states and find out what things were different while also realizing that many things were the same, because 4-H was our common ground.”

The group left the morning after Thanksgiving from Little Rock National Airport and Northwest Arkansas National Airport in Fayetteville. Once in Atlanta, they heard from several keynote speakers, including New York Times best-selling author Dan Clark and John Beede, an Everest mountaineer who shared his success strategies.

“My most enjoyable experience was the talented comedian and juggler who cheers up children at a local hospital in Atlanta,” Pulaski County 4-H member Isaiah Breshears, 18, said. “He reminded us that we are loved by our friends, valued by our clubs, and that suicide is never the answer.”

The Arkansas 4-H members also worked on variety of community service projects in the Atlanta metro area — from landscaping Piedmont Park and the Atlanta History Center, to reading to elementary students, to sorting and packing books for Children in Africa, for which Breshears volunteered.

The teens also did some sightseeing in Atlanta with stops at the Atlanta Zoo, College Football Hall of Fame, World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, and Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.

Breshears, who has 4-H projects in Workforce and Career Development and Environmental Science, said his favorite stop was Truist Park.

“We got to visit the press box, dugout, and the field,” he said. “I learned a lot about the important role sports management and mass communications play in nationally broadcast sporting events.”

All of the Arkansas delegation earned their trip to 4-H Congress by winning advanced record book contests in their respective projects.

“This trip is a culmination of years of work on their projects, building skills, and preparing for life after 4-H,” Nistler said. “These are some of the hardest working, strongest young people you’ll meet.”

The Arkansas 4-H Foundation paid for their trip.

“Arkansas 4-H stands out as one of the few states that fully funds every delegate’s trip to National 4-H Congress,” foundation Managing Director John Thomas said. “That tradition is made possible by donors who believe in our young people and want to celebrate the dedication, service, and leadership it takes to earn this honor.”

Attendees include the following:

• Benton County — Lydia Brown, Kolby Campbell, Krystal Edith Estrada, Zachariah Hinojosa, Zoey Hinojosa, Emily Jackson, Brooklyn Luedecke, Bailey Malone, Emma Millsap, Gracelyn Moore, Ramsey Puryear, Addison Robins and Lillian Swarengin

• Carroll County — Andrew Rexwinkle

• Clark County — Blakley Thompson

• Columbia County — Dawson Dooly

• Howard County — Anna Kate McKinnon

• Independence County —Annaleigh Mead and Logan Wiltrout

• Lonoke County — Kaitlyn Caswell Mogish

• Madison County — Andrew Hendricks and Vallie Yancey

• Montgomery County — Opal Samons

• Pulaski County — Isaiah Breshears

• Sebastian County — Mary Dunn and Royston Drake Slate

• Washington County — Joshua Bailey and Alyosha Wood

• White County — Sadie Lillard and Delyia Sanderlin

The group was accompanied by 4-H staff member Breanna Wade; Howard County staff chair Samantha Horn; Garland County 4-H agent Sara Jackson; Madison County volunteerJeneal Yancy and Benton County volunteer Nicole Swarengin.

For more information about 4-H, visit https://4h.uada.edu/ or contact your local county extension agent at uaex.uadca.edu/counties.

Follow us on Facebook at arkansas.extension and on X and Instagram at @AR_Extension. To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on X at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on X at @AgInArk.

Resident Press (Scott & So. Sebastian County edition) 12/10/25 Vol. 7 No. 50

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5:48 pm

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Resident Press (Scott & So. Sebastian County edition) 12/10/25 Vol. 7 No. 50

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“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

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3:53 pm

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“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

By Sheri Hopkins

Hello everyone! It sure has been cold. I went to Greenwood yesterday and it sleeted on me almost the whole way there. I am a hot-weather girl! It is December, though—we have to expect the cold weather.

I have to tell y’all a funny story before I get to the other one. I went to Cato in Fort Smith and bought a skirt, and as I was checking out, I asked the girl, “Did I get a size 18?” (Yes, I’m plus size.) She said, “Yes, you did. Would you like a gift receipt?” I said, “Nope, it’s for me.” I guess she was implying that I was too fat for a size 18. She never said another word—guess she thought better of it!

This time of year is always hard, because my husband passed away in November, twelve years ago. My son and I were talking about him the other day, how much we miss him, and all the great memories we have. He worked out of town a lot during our married life. He would always come home on Christmas Eve and meet us at LongHorn Steakhouse in Fort Smith for dinner. We haven’t missed a Christmas Eve meal there since he passed.

He worked in the Conway area a lot, and one year he couldn’t come home, so Jacob and I headed to Conway for Christmas. We got up on Christmas morning, had our Christmas together, and decided to go eat in Conway. Now, if you haven’t seen the movie A Christmas Story, you need to—because this was our day.

In a city the size of Conway, you’d think there would be a restaurant open for a nice Christmas meal. I assure you, there was not. We drove all over town and finally found this Japanese Fuji place. It was the only thing open. So we went in, and let me tell you—I do not like that kind of food. I’m a southern-food kinda gal. That’s why I wear a size 18! I think we were the only ones there, maybe one other couple. We laughed and talked and had a great time. I just really wanted them to come out to our table and sing us a Christmas song like in the movie.

Y’all hug your loved ones. Tell them you love them and cherish every moment together.

Until next week, y’all stay warm and be safe out shopping.

MARASCHINO CHERRY CAKE
For the cake:
3 large eggs
1/2 cup oil
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
1 box of vanilla cake mix (I am going to try the almond cake mix next time)
16 maraschino cherries cut into quarters (I just put in my chopper)
Bake in a 9×13 pan sprayed with cooking spray according to the box directions. It may take a little longer, you will know when it is done.
Icing:
1 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
1/3 cup softened butter
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
Mix this till smooth and creamy. You can add more powdered sugar or cherry juice to get it to the consistency you prefer. Enjoy and have a blessed week.

Two Logan County Families Named 2025 Farm Families of the Year

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2:21 pm

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Two Logan County Families Named 2025 Farm Families of the Year

The Arkansas Century Farm Program recognizes Arkansas’s rich agricultural heritage and honors families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. The program is administered by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.

Two Logan County families have been recognized:

Ferguson Family Farm
Logan County, Est. 1847

Starling Wingford Farm
Logan County, Est. 1917

The Arkansas Century Farm Program is a cost-free voluntary program. The program places no restrictions on the farm and offers no legal protection. Approved applicants receive an Arkansas Century Farm certificate and metal sign for their property that will list the farm name and year established.

Congratulations to the Ferguson and Wingford families on being recognized as the 2025 Farm Families of the Year — an honor well-earned.

Scott County Holds Ballot Draw

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Cassie Coben

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12:50 pm

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Scott County candidates learned their official ballot positions Wednesday as the Board of Election Commissioners conducted the random drawing for the March preferential primary.

A ballot draw is used to assign placement without relying on alphabetical order or incumbency.

Clerk Brianna Freeman, Deputy Clerk Dawn Austin-Richmond, SCBEC Chairwoman Barbara Templeman and Commissioner Ken Stricker performed the draw as several candidates looked on.

Local candidates attending the drawing, include County Treasurer Teresa Scantling;
clerk candidates Taylor Carpenter-Steele and Jeanette Byford; Assessor candidate Sheri Thompson; County Judge candidate Brian K. Jones; JP Position 2 candidate Melvin “Dee” Parker; and JP Position 9 candidate Roger G. Rice.

County Races

Treasurer
(Republican Primary) 1. Bridget Herr
2. Teresa A. Scantling (Incumbent)

Sheriff / Collector (Republican Primary)
1. Mark Chapman
2. Jason Daggs

County / Circuit Clerk (Republican Primary)
1. Taylor Carpenter-Steele
2. Jeanetta Elmore Byford

Assessor (Republican Primary)
1. Sheri Thompson
2. Kim Lane

County Judge (Republican Primary)
1. David Lee Taff
2. Brian K. Jones (Incumbent)

Justice of the Peace – Position 1
(Republican Primary)
1. Roger D. Rich
2. Bobby J. Hattabaugh (Incumbent)

Justice of the Peace – Position 2
(Republican Primary)
1. William Bates
2. Melvin “Dee” Parker (Incumbent)
3. Peter Herr

Justice of the Peace – Position 9
(Republican Primary)
1. Roger G. Rice
2. Tara L. Brackett (Incumbent)

State & Federal Races
U.S. Senate
Democratic Primary

1. Mayor Ethan N. Dunbar
2. Hallie Shoffner

Republican Primary
1. Micah Ashby
2. Jeb Little
3. Senator Tom Cotton

— U.S. Congress – District 04
Democratic Primary
1. James “Rus” Russell III
2. Steven Layne O’Donnell

Republican Primary
Congressman Bruce Westerman — unopposed

— Governor
Democratic Primary
1. Supha Xayprasith- Mays
2. State Senator Fred Love

Republican Primary
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders — unopposed

— Secretary of State Republican Primary
1. Judge Cathy Hardin Harrison
2. Senator Kim Hammer
3. Bryan Norris

Democratic Primary
Kelly Grappe — unopposed —

Commissioner of State Lands
Republican Primary
1. Christian Olson
2. Secretary of State Cole Jester

(No Democratic candidates filed.)

—
State Representative – District 52
Republican Primary
1. Justice Brent Montgomery
2. Mike Jones
3. Councilwoman Crystal Malloy
4. Kristain Thompson

(No Democratic candidates filed.)

— State Supreme Court – Associate Justice Position 3
Nonpartisan Judicial Election
1. John Adams
2. Justice Nick Bronni

There are also several local positions that are either uncontested or have no candidates filed.

Oregon-California Trail Association visit area to film historical documentaries

Featured

Resident News Network

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9:00 pm

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Oregon-California Trail Association visit area to film historical documentaries

By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Recently, Travis Boley and Chip Ashby of the Oregon-California Trails association visited the Fort Smith area to film a series of documentaries on the importance of the region during the California Gold rush days as a departure point to the many westward trails. In 1849-50, Senator Borland of Arkansas promoted Fort Smith as the natural jumping off point for people heading to the gold field. Using his political clout, he was able to get wagon trains a military guard that would protect the migrants as they crossed the dangerous Indian territory. Eventually, 3,000 immigrants and over 900 wagons left from various sites in western Arkansas.

Boley and Ashby are a part of the Oregon-California Trails Association, an organization that seeks to preserve and protect the history and heritage of the various trails west. Working out of Independence, Missouri, they partner with the National Park service to achieve the goal of, not only preserving the sites, but promoting an understanding of the historical significance of the trails and the movement westward. Nationally, the Independence group serve as a hub for more than a dozen sister groups across the U.S.

A big part of their efforts has been creating documentaries that tell the history and significance of the people and events surrounding the movement westward, one of the biggest being the Gold Rush. Over the past few years, they have created a series of documentaries ranging from simply following the trail westward to telling the individual stories of people that suffered the hardships and trials of crossing what was then known as the Great American Desert. Ranging from titles of The Mountain Man to the Curious Case of Sarah Thomas’ Tombstone, they describe the life and times of one of the most exciting periods in American history.

Local historians, Bob Crossman, Dr. Curtis Varnell, and UAFS professor Tom Wing were area consultants for the project.

During November, the crew visited and filmed the Old Fort, the Fort Smith Museum, and the debarkation points along the river. During visits with Dr. Varnell, the crew decided to do one of the first documentary programs on the life of local pioneer James Garner. Garner was a colorful character and much involved in local and state history. He left Arkansas for California during the gold rush and was successful in finding a wealth of the shiny mineral. Bringing the gold dust home in a teapot, he was able to buy a large homestead and a grist mill on the side of Magazine Mountain. He was a Union captain during the Civil War, a state representative for Logan County, and the first sheriff of the county. That segment is expected out in March of 2026 followed by other segments documenting the importance of this region to the western movement.

Individuals interested in the trail’s organization can access the website at www.octa-trails.org and www.octa-journals.org. The best was to see some of the prior work is to simply go to Youtube at www.youtube.com/@octatrails . The series has been made available on-site free for public use. They are also available on Youtube TV.

Interviews with local historians and others with appear in several clips as the documentaries are made but the program on Garner and some of the other stories will air as complete programs. The first of these should be available in March of 2026.

Honoring a Legacy of Service: David Millard Recognized for 25 Years with the Waldron Fire Department

Cassie Coben

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6:43 pm

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Honoring a Legacy of Service: David Millard Recognized for 25 Years with the Waldron Fire Department

The City of Waldron recently paused to celebrate a man whose life’s work has been defined by service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to his community. David Millard—former police chief and current mayor—was honored on Thursday night, December 4, for an impressive 25 years of dedicated service to the Waldron Fire Department.

The recognition came in the form of a beautifully crafted plaque, presented as a token of gratitude from the Waldron City Fire Department. Its inscription reflected the depth of Millard’s contributions, commending his “selfless and sacrificial service” and calling his steadfast dedication “a testament to courage, duty and community.

Waldron Firefighter Mark Lystad presents Millard with his golden ax. (RNN photo / Cassie Coben)

For Millard, public service has never been a title—it has been a calling. Long before being elected mayor, he served the community through law enforcement, eventually becoming Waldron’s police chief. Yet even while wearing the badge, he continued to don the helmet of a firefighter, answering calls at all hours and placing the safety of others at the forefront of his life.

Colleagues describe him as calm under pressure and deeply devoted to the people he serves. That dedication carried him through countless emergencies, fires, rescues, and moments when the community needed steady hands and strong leadership. Whether responding to a blaze in the middle of the night or helping guide the city through its day-to-day challenges, Millard has been a steadfast figure in Waldron’s public safety landscape.

A surprised and emotional David Millard reacts as his 25 years of service to the Waldron Fire Department are recognized. (RNN photo / Cassie Coben)

Now, as mayor, he continues that tradition—working to support first responders, strengthen city services, and ensure that the next generation inherits a community built on trust, integrity, and resilience.

The Waldron City Fire Department’s recognition serves as a reminder of the often-unseen sacrifices made by volunteer and career firefighters alike, and of the extraordinary individuals who stand ready when crisis calls. For 25 years, David Millard has been one of those individuals.

As the plaque states, the honor represents the department’s “grateful acknowledgement of [his] outstanding service.” For the citizens of Waldron, it represents even more—a heartfelt appreciation for a man who has consistently embodied the very best of public service.

Congratulations to Mayor David Millard on this milestone achievement and thank you for your continued dedication to the City of Waldron.

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RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK