Resident News Network

Shores on the Sheriffs’ Association Meeting

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12:48 pm

Shores on the Sheriffs’ Association Meeting

Scott County Sheriff Randy Shores returned home from the recent summer conference of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Association meeting. The meeting was held August 4-7 in Rogers, AR.

Shores said the conferences are extremely helpful in that they get to visit one on one with sheriffs across the state. “We talk, and if you have a problem, you can hear how they (other sheriffs) have handled things. Of course, bigger counties, they may have the same problems, just more of them.”

In the summer conference, Shores said they learned about changes in law, jail standards, mental health, and new marijuana laws.

The association hosts a conference bi-annually, and will hold the next meeting in the winter, February 2-5, 2020 in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Lavaca City Council Minutes

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Resident News Network

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7:25 pm

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The City Council of the City of Lavaca met for a regular monthly meeting Monday, August 12, 2019, at City Hall in Lavaca. Board members present were Mayor Hugh Hardgrave; Aldermen: Mike Ray, Rick Edgerton, Gerald Schaefer, Dale Teague, Lorie Robertson, Benny Hunter, attorney John Verkamp, and Recorder Shelly Hockaday. Visitors present were Steve Helms, Butch Maness, Ken VanDusen, Jack James, Lou Helms, Danny & Patti Dikeman, Randy Toon, Chris White, Paul Sanders, Jeff Hartsfield, Colby Swofford, Jake Parnell, Roy Holtz, Isaiah Schoeppey, Scott Brown, Robert & Wanda Sanders, Stacy Hardgrave, Billy & Shanda Cater, Johnny & Rita Helms, Dan Mello, Scott McDonald and Monte & Holly Hill.

The meeting was called to order at 7:20 P. M. Paul Sanders led the Pledge of Allegiance and Hugh Hardgrave said the prayer.

Lorie Robertson asked that the word dropped be changed to improved in paragraph 5 pertaining to the ISO rating. With this change, the Council approved the minutes of the July regular meeting. (Robertson/Ray) Dale Teague abstained from the vote due to being absent from the July meeting.

Council members reviewed the report from the Police Dept. The Department answered 420 calls in July. LPD issued 7 traffic tickets, 5 criminal tickets, and 8 warnings. There were 10 arrests made in the month of July.

Council members reviewed the report from the Fire Dept. The Department responded to 22 first responder calls, 2 fire call, 1 accident, and 1 road closure.

Mayor Hardgrave made a recommendation that Paul Sanders be appointed as the Lavaca Fire Chief. Steve Helms is retiring from the department after serving a total of 34 years, 14 of those as Chief. (Teague/Ray)

The Council voted to pay the bills for the month of August. (Edgerton/Teague)

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

Boles Community Center News

News

Tammy Teague

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5:49 pm

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The Boles Community Center Board of Directors held their regular meeting on Tuesday, August 6, with 15 people in attendance. Much of the meeting focused on plans for fundraisers.

A blue and yellow queen-size quilt with a pinwheel pattern will be given away on November 2 at the chili supper. The quilt was made in honor of the Boles High School Class of 1949, whose colors were blue and gold. Tickets are being sold for $1 each or 6 for $5. See Linda Weatherly, Vanessa Reed, Cheryl Ridenhour, Teresa Holleman, Sherry Sue Holleman, Joyce Miner, or Karen Williams for tickets; you can also email them for more information at bolescommunitycenter@gmail.com.

There will be a smoked chicken sale on Friday, October 25. County Judge James Forbes will be smoking the chickens. Pre-orders will be available. The chili supper is scheduled for for November 2.

More information about the Boles Community Center and its fundraisers, as well as historic photos, can be found at www.bolescommunitycenter.com. Check back often for updates and additions to the historical information. Feel free to email them if you have photos, yearbooks, or memorabilia you would like to share.

The next meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 3. Everyone is welcome. Plans are to spend cleaning the facility after that meeting. Those who would like to lend a hand, may stay after the meeting to help.

City Takes School Safety Precautions

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Tammy Teague

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4:57 pm

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Mansfield Mayor Buddy Black along with city employees, Joe Manes and Parker Shipman, have been working to improve the visibility of school zones by adding crosswalks.

Additionally, the speed limits in these areas were reduced from 45 mph to 25 mph.

According to Black, the additions were made along Tiger Trail and Slate Road. The speed limit in both of those residential areas is now 25 mph.

Vacancy Declared on Waldron City Council

Tammy Teague

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12:00 pm

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Vacancy Declared on Waldron City Council

The Waldron City Council met on Tuesday, August 13 at 5:30 p.m. All members of the council were present. Also present were, Mayor David Millard, City Clerk/Treasurer Sherry Johnston and City Attorney Mark Johnson.

After approving the minutes from the June meeting, the council heard the city services report.

Police Chief Jeremy Hunt reported that there were 61 cases reported to police, and 35 arrests made. Cases included one sex crime, four crimes against a person, one burglary, five theft of property, 18 citations, nine drug cases, 11 miscellaneous cases, 20 warrants served, eight public intoxication and three accidents.

The council discussed Chief Hunt’s proposal to implement the E-tickets system. The system will soon be mandated, and the council agreed to prepare a resolution for next month’s meeting to begin the transition. Every officer will have a portable laptop in their unit, and the system will eliminate hand written tickets. According to Hunt, the Arkansas State Police will train the department on how to use the new system. City Attorney Mark Johnson spoke positively about the transition, stating, “it will be more efficient.”

Brandon Nelson, City Superintendent, reported that the new aerators had been installed, and just in time. According to him, the single operating aerator had just quit, and they were able to get the new ones installed. He added that his department continues to do routine work, including brush clean up and work at the airport.

Next, the council voted to accept the resignation of Alderman Kelly Slaten. Slaten, who serves in Ward III, Position II, submitted a letter of resignation to the council, thanking them for their support and leadership. In Slaten’s letter, she explained the reason for her resignation. “…my family and I have a unique opportunity to purchase my grandparents farm…While we are very excited for the opportunity to raise our small children in a more rural setting, I am heartbroken to have to step down from my position on the city council. I am especially sorry to put you all in a position to have to replace this seat again in the same calendar year. I assure you, my heart was to serve a full term with honor for my ward.”

After the council voted to accept Slaten’s resignation, a vacancy was declared for Ward III, Position II.

The next item of business was for the council to consider adjustments to the salary schedule prompted by the three year increase in the state minimum wage. After a lengthy discussion, the council voted unanimously to accept the proposed wage increases for city employees. Increases range from $.86 to $4.42, all conditional on the number of years of employment. The state minimum wage increase, and the desire to remain a competitive workplace prompted the ordinance, 2019-06, which the council adopted.

Mayor David Millard asked the council to assist him as a committee to research the pros and cons of implementing a city business license. They will meet to discuss those findings in a workshop following the September agenda meeting.

City Attorney Mark Johnson reported to the council that he is prepared to take action, at their direction, on the condemnation of properties at 321 Redbud, 1056 Danville Road and 287 E. 5th Street. A property owner, who is also on the list, reached out to the mayor’s office and indicated he had attained an attorney. The council voted to allow the owner at 768 W. 4th Street time to get the property back in compliance with the city before taking any further action. “We don’t want to take people’s property,” stated Johnson. He added that this will ultimately benefit the city, though they will have to absorb the initial costs. Johnson indicated that later, they could recoup those costs through property auctions.

Rene Myers, the Director of the Scott-Sebastian Regional Library, was recognized to speak. Myers commented on the success of the summer reading program and made the council aware of the implementation of the E-Books system. “You can now read books from our library on your Kindle or smart phone,” concluded Myers.

With no other items of business, the meeting of the Waldron City Council was adjourned.

WCFL Reaping What They Sowed

Sports

Megan Hecox

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10:18 am

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“No matter what people tell you, an idea can change the world” – Robin Williams.

Last year was the inaugural season for the West Central Football League. The league was formed to give small school little league programs an opportunity to play equal competition and have the chance to create growth within their programs. With many towns in 2018 starting the season having barely enough players for a team, it was evident that it would take some time to get everyone up to par.

Over the offseason, WCFL Board Members worked together sharing “Tricks of the Trade” and coming up with ideas to help build programs. Although many teams are still holding signups, teams shared their most recent numbers and the results are very promising. The numbers don’t show explosions of growth, but the seeds the WCFL planted last season are definitely starting to break through the ground.

WCFL President and Magazine Representative, Doug Powell, is excited about the growth in his Rattler little league football program. “Growth of any amount is big for our league teams. We are the smallest school in the WCFL. With fewer athletes available, one player potentially makes a greater impact for us than the rest of the league. Gaining one kid per grade can be huge for us,” expresses Powell.

“Numbers for our Jr High have been dwindling over the years. Having growth and strong numbers in little league gives us a chance to change the program’s direction and accomplish my goal of consistent achievements. In the last five years, we have the most 7th graders playing football this season. Our goal is to continue this trend each year. If we achieve that, we will be competitive with our Sr High program and also have more success. I am pleased with where the little league program is right now. We want to continue to develop the league and make it even better.”

Hackett Little League President and WCFL Board Representative for the Hornets, Dave Slavens, adds “Being a part of the WCFL has created the opportunity for us to consistently compete with schools who are the same in size and numbers as we are. All schools in the WCFL are benefiting from this. We are starting to see more rivalry games now in the WCFL also, which you don’t see a lot of anymore.”

With school now in session, teams still have the opportunity to catch kids who were on vacation or at camps over the summer. The deadline for teams to turn in their rosters for the 2019 season is August 24th. The old saying goes “you’re either growing or dying” and even though it will take some more time, it is very evident that the small school programs of the West Central Football League are alive and well.

Man Arrested Following High Speed Chase in Scott County

Tammy Teague

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9:18 pm

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Man Arrested Following High Speed Chase in Scott County

On Saturday evening, August 10, a Scott County Deputy attempted to make a traffic stop on a vehicle with a broken tail light. The driver, Demetrius Hill, 20, failed to stop and lead the deputy on a high speed pursuit.

Hill managed to elude the deputy, however, the wrecked vehicle was later located in the Cauthron community. That vehicle, which authorities state contained drug paraphernalia, was discovered as stolen from Missouri.

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office requested the assistance of the Waldron Police Department in the search for Hill. Scott County Sheriff Randy Shores stated that they were grateful to the department for the use of their K-9 officer in the search.

Hill was eventually captured in West Fork after allegedly stealing another vehicle on Sunday, August 11. Hill reportedly collided with a parked car inside the City of West Fork after fleeing from an Arkansas Game and Fish Officer. A West Fork officer intercepted Hill, and the pursuit ended after another collision.

After being released from Washington Regional, Hill was booked into the Washington County Jail. He is currently being charged in Washington County for reckless driving, fleeing, theft by receiving, second degree battery and leaving the scene/property damage. Sheriff Shores stated that Hill will be returned to Scott County, where he will face additional charges.

Mountainburg Looks To Continue Winning Ways

Sports

Megan Hecox

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11:45 am

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Mountainburg Looks To Continue Winning Ways

The epitome of Mountainburg sports, veteran Coach Tom Harrell, is eager to start another round of Dragon football. Compared to 30 years ago when Harrell first started, the football program has changed drastically. “We average 30 players each year now, whereas, in the past, numbers were always an issue,” Coach Harrell says. “The facilities and equipment now are top of the line for a AA school in Arkansas. And the community has fallen in love with football. Even on long road games, we always have a great crowd.”

During the 2018 football season, Mountainburg finished 8-3 overall and made it to the second round of the state playoffs. This season though, the Dragons are geared up and ready to set things on fire. Mountainburg will be playing in the 2A conference alongside Hackett, Hector, Lavaca, JC Westside, WYC, and Magazine. If the Dragons are wanting to stay on top, Coach Harrell says, “We will have to win the close games, show improvement on both sides of the ball, and most of all stay healthy.”

Every year, the Dragons hope to compete for the title of Conference Champions and this upcoming football season is no different. Last year, Mountainburg shared the conference championship with Hector. This season though, the Dragons will share the top with no one. Coach Harrell says his team is looking forward to week 10 when they get to take on Hector at home.

Another exciting match-up Mountainburg is looking forward to is their game against Magazine. “Magazine will be for real this year. They have a very tough and talented senior and junior class.” During the 2018 football season, the Dragons annihilated the Rattlers 40-8. This season, Mountainburg plans to do it again as they are returning 12 offensive and defensive starters. Dragon football gets underway as they take on the Golden Arrows at Lavaca on August 30.

Waldron Nursing Center Gives Hope Through Therapy

Lifestyle

Resident News Network

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10:40 am

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Waldron Nursing Center Gives Hope Through Therapy

Quietly sitting on the East side of Highway 71 South Bypass, the Waldron Nursing Center is abound with social activities, a hub for community involvement and a staff of caring professionals.

Specializing in long term care, their licensed staff works closely together ensuring the best care possible. Boasting a 105 bed facility, with semi-private rooms the Waldron Nursing Center is designed to provide a warm, comfortable home where your loved one receives the care and assistance they need, and desire.

Sally White working with occupational therapy on upper body strength.

From restaurant style dining, and open courtyard, their amenities rival even the best home-like environments. A spacious dayroom allows residents to stay active while visiting among residents and visitors in the comfort of a smoke-free facility.

Within walking distance to the local hospital, and 24 hr. nursing care with RN’s and LPN’s, the daily activities, community outings, and visiting areas are a small sampling of the consistent attention to detail found inside the walls at Waldron Nursing Center.

Joyce Lowry working with occupational therapy on endurance

Aside from the comfortable atmosphere, their therapy services are often overlooked from those needing physical, occupational, speech, outpatient therapies. This is where the attention to detail really shines.

Therapy staff works with residents and patients on a daily basis to help your family member recover with a high success rate on short-term rehab stays. Therapy services are conducted under the watchful eye of certified staff who assist in personal needs, and recovery.

Kristy Young working with Sarah Weatherly on strengthening.

Waldron Nursing Center also assists in applying for Medicaid and accepts long-term care insurance.

For more information on their personal care, or to learn how they can help with physical therapy services, call (479) 637-3171, or stop by and visit with their staff at 1369 West 6^th Street in Waldron, who would be glad to give you a tour. Ask for Patti or Anne.

Kansas Hunt RN Educator and Kinnely Wagner LPN

2019 Rattlers Are Loaded With Venom

Sports

Megan Hecox

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10:19 am

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With a population of just under a thousand people, located in Logan County, sits Magazine, Arkansas. To the outside world, Magazine is just a speck on the map. A small town that is being overshadowed by the ever-increasing populated areas around it. Driving through town a few businesses you’ll encounter are gas stations, a bank, a hardware store, and a downhome country cookin’ cafe that has the best chicken fried steak in the River Valley.

But to the hard-working individuals and families that call Magazine home, its a town determined to succeed. A town filled with confidence, ambition, and motivation. And a town that’s going to take those qualities to the 2A football conference and knock everybody off of their pedestals. The Rattlers are headed by Coach Doug Powell, who will be starting his eighth football season as head coach with 14 years at Magazine altogether.

Over the summer, Coach Powell had about 45 athletes, grades 7-12, show up for summer workouts and football practices which is a far cry from his first year where only six kids turned up to participate. “Right now, I feel our strengths are strong leadership and experience,” Coach Powell explains. “Last year we were in the mix so this season we want to accomplish even more. Hopefully, luck will be on our side and we can send these seniors out with the best season that we are capable of achieving.”

Magazine will be returning seven starters on both sides of the ball this season. Fullback and Linebacker, Caleb Hyatt had a great season last year. Making plays on both sides of the ball, Coach Powell is expecting Hyatt to have an even better season this year. Running back, Quarterback, and Cornerback, Xeng Yang, “has been the most unselfish player. He is my blue-collar guy. I would take a team full of Xeng’s. He has made a lot of big plays for us.”

Offensive and Defensive Lineman, Bryce McDowell, “anchors our D-line and has the ability to both disrupt plays and make tackles.” Quarterback, Runningback, and Strong Safety, Tatum Scott, “finished last season as the QB. He is super competitive and capable of making big plays on both sides of the ball.” Running back, Fullback, and Linebacker, Kobe Faughn, “made a ton of tackles for us last year as a sophomore, and with more plays this year, we expect him to have a bigger offensive year.”

“We have several more athletes that we are expecting to make big plays for us this year. Unfortunately, there are only so many plays in a game and a season. When given the opportunity this year, they will have to take advantage of it, and make the most of it,” says Coach Powell.

The Rattlers will be playing their 2019 conference schedule against Hackett, Hector, Lavaca, Mountainburg, WYC, and JC Westside. “We have to bring our best every game. We have to be focused on our task at hand and on a mission to complete those task. We need to find a way to win every game. And most importantly, we need to provide an atmosphere that is conducive for our athletes to reach their full potential as well as accomplishing our vision and goals.”

Magazine will open their season on August 23 with a scrimmage at Cedarville followed by their first home game on August 30 against the Bigelow Panthers at 7 p.m.

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