Resident News Network

Waldron School Board Approves Roof Replacement Contracts at Special Meeting

News

-

4:00 pm

Waldron School Board Approves Roof Replacement Contracts at Special Meeting

The Waldron School Board held a special meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Central Office Building to address critical infrastructure improvements across the district.

Board members in attendance were Vice-President Mac Davis, Angela Hunsucker, and Konnor McKay. Members Stan Cottrell and Clay Woodall were absent. Also present were Superintendent Daniel Fielding, Chris Lipham, and Josh Wegenka.

Vice-President Davis officially called the meeting to order at 5:25 p.m.

The primary agenda item focused on roof replacements for two of the district’s facilities. Following discussion, a motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve a bid and enter into contracts with Escola Roofing for the Waldron Middle School roof replacement and with Aduddell Industries for the roof replacement at the Adventure Learning Academy. The motion passed unanimously, 3-0.

With no further business, a motion to adjourn was made by McKay and seconded by Hunsucker. The motion passed 3-0, and the meeting was officially adjourned at 5:47 p.m.

These upgrades mark continued progress in the district’s ongoing efforts to improve learning environments and ensure the safety and comfort of students and staff.

Mayor Black Moves Forward on Major Infrastructure and Quality of Life Improvements in Mansfield

Insider

Resident News Network

-

1:32 pm

0

Mayor Black Moves Forward on Major Infrastructure and Quality of Life Improvements in Mansfield

This content is reserved for RESIDENT INSIDER members.

Please login or subscribe to view.

Buckley Announces Candidacy for Circuit Court Judge, Division 5

News

Resident News Network

-

11:51 am

0

Buckley Announces Candidacy for Circuit Court Judge, Division 5

Fort Smith, AR (April 8, 2025) – Local attorney and longtime public servant Ashleigh Buckley has officially announced her candidacy for Circuit Court Judge of Division 5 in Sebastian County. The election will be held on March 3, 2026.

With a legal career spanning 15 years of litigation across civil, criminal, state, and federal courts, Buckley brings an experienced, well-rounded legal background and a deep commitment to justice and community engagement.

“I’m running for Circuit Court Judge to serve the people of Sebastian County with fairness, diligence, and a fresh new perspective,” said Buckley. “Having represented both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases, and worked as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, I understand the importance of a balanced perspective and impartial leadership on the bench.”

Buckley began her legal career with Leitner, Williams, Dooley & Napolitan, PLLC, where she represented Fortune 500 companies in complex civil litigation. She later returned home to the River Valley to serve as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Sebastian County, where she focused on cases involving child abuse and domestic violence. Her dedication to protecting children led her to a federal role as Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Arkansas, prosecuting cases under the Project Safe Childhood initiative and working with the Department of Homeland Security’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Child Abduction Response Team.

During her tenure as a federal prosecutor, Buckley collaborated with federal and local law enforcement to track and prosecute child predators and unregistered sex offenders. She also argued cases before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, including United States v. John Hill, a landmark case strengthening federal regulations on convicted sex offenders.

In 2017, Buckley joined her husband, William, at The Buckley Firm, LLC. In private practice, she has represented clients in civil matters including real estate, probate, construction, contracts, and personal injury. She also has experience defending individuals charged with federal financial crimes. In addition, Buckley has served as interim prosecuting attorney for the City of Fort Smith, handling city misdemeanor cases and Sebastian County’s DWI Court andAshleigh Buckley for Circuit Court Judge, Division 5 RISE Court programs, which offer alternatives to incarceration for individuals struggling with substance use or mental health challenges.

Beyond her legal career, Buckley has been a committed advocate for community development and nonprofit work in the River Valley. She served as President of the Junior League of Fort Smith in 2018, where she founded a college scholarship for teens in foster care. She is a co-founder of Fort Kids Children’s Museum, a 501(c)(3) organization working to bring a children’s museum to Fort Smith’s riverfront. Buckley also serves with Girls Inc., the Mercy Health Foundation, and Grace’s Toy Closet, a nonprofit supporting children undergoing cancer treatment.

Buckley is a proud honors graduate of Southside High School and earned her undergraduate degree magna cum laude from the University of Arkansas Honors College. She received her Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas School of Law where she was a member of the school’s mock trial team. In 2009, she and her partner became the first all-female team to win the William H. Sutton Trial Competition and she was recognized as Best Oralist in appellate advocacy in 2008.

Buckley and her husband have dedicated time to coaching the Southside High School mock trial team and she was elected to serve as President of the Sebastian County Bar Association in 2025 by her peers in the legal community. She was also selected for the 2025 Citizen Merit Award by the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association for her efforts to protect car wreck victims from fraudulent solicitations.

Ashleigh lives in Bonanza with her husband, William, and their two sons, Will (8) and Ben (3). They attend Immaculate Conception Church where Ashleigh is a lector and eucharistic minister.

Raised in the River Valley, she credits her upbringing—including time spent riding horses with the Greenwood Round-Up Club and Old Fort Days Dandies and playing AAU basketball —for shaping her strong sense of community and commitment to service.

“The best thing about Sebastian County is the people who live here and I would be honored to serve them as Circuit Court Judge.” Buckley said. “I believe in the value of hard work and will dedicate my time and best efforts to thoroughly reviewing every case to ensure the most fair and just outcome. The people of Sebastian County deserve nothing less.”

Learn more about Ashleigh Buckley at buckleyforjudge.com. To contact Ashleigh, please email [email protected].

SR Tigers Look Stout At Charleston Camp

Insider

Adam Hecox

-

11:31 am

0

This content is reserved for RESIDENT INSIDER members.

Please login or subscribe to view.

Obituary: Wanda Kuhlmann (1930-2025)

Obituaries

Resident News Network

-

1:06 pm

0

Wanda Jo (Frazier) Kuhlmann, of Waldron, Arkansas, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on October 19, 1930, in Iowa Park, Texas, Wanda lived a life rich in love, family, and community, leaving behind a legacy that will be felt for generations to come.

Wanda was preceded in death by her beloved granddaughter, Kristina Kuhlmann; her great grandsons, Jonathan Dotson and Colby Kuhlmann; and her devoted husband of 68 years, J.W. Kuhlmann. Together, they built a warm and welcoming home on their farm, where they nurtured their three children: Danny Kuhlmann (Beverly), Jackie Wright (Steven), and Janis Martin (Brad). Wanda’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she took immense pride in being a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother.

A woman of many talents, Wanda was an avid quilter, creating hundreds of beautiful quilts that she lovingly shared with friends and family. Each stitch was a testament to her creativity and generosity, wrapping her loved ones in warmth and comfort. Her passion for life was evident in everything she did, from her commitment to her faith as a Christian to her dedication to her family.

Wanda’s professional journey began when she pursued her education and became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She played a vital role in her community, helping to raise funds for the construction of the first Waldron hospital. Even into her 80s, she maintained her nursing license, always ready to lend a helping hand if needed. After her time in healthcare, she transitioned to a fulfilling career as a bank teller at the Bank of Waldron, where she was known for her kindness and dedication until her retirement.

Wanda’s love for farming was matched only by her love for her family. She cherished the moments spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often involving them in the daily joys of farm life, from feeding the animals to sharing stories under the open sky. Her nurturing spirit ensured that everyone around her felt valued and loved.

Wanda leaves behind a remarkable legacy, including nine grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss her dearly. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

As we remember Wanda, let us celebrate a life well-lived, filled with laughter, love, and countless memories. She will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and her spirit will live on in the lives she touched.

Wanda’s celebration of life will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Rev. Ray Jett and Rev. Johnny Kuhlmann officiating. Interment will follow in the Duncan Cemetery in Waldron. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Wanda’s visitation will be Sunday, June 8, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.

Arrest Reports 6/25/25

Insider

Resident News Network

-

1:03 pm

0

This content is reserved for RESIDENT INSIDER members.

Please login or subscribe to view.

Two Killed in Logan County Crash on Morrison Bluff Bridge

Insider

Resident News Network

-

5:04 pm

0

Two Killed in Logan County Crash on Morrison Bluff Bridge

Two people were killed late Friday night in a multi-vehicle crash on the Morrison Bluff Bridge in Logan County, according to the Arkansas State Police.

The fatal collision occurred at approximately 11:17 p.m. on May 30, along State Highway 109.

Authorities say 20-year-old Mackenzie Arthur was traveling southbound across the Morrison Bluff Bridge in a 2010 Toyota, with a minor passenger in the vehicle. Directly behind them, a 2011 Chevrolet was also headed southbound.

According to the preliminary crash report, the driver of the Chevrolet struck the rear of Arthur’s vehicle, causing it to veer across the centerline into oncoming traffic. The Toyota then collided head-on with a Peterbilt truck heading northbound.

Both Arthur and the minor passenger were pronounced dead. No other injuries were reported.

The Arkansas State Police confirmed that the next of kin have been notified.

Obituary: Clifford Dailey (1930-2025)

Obituaries

Resident News Network

-

4:47 pm

0

Clifford T. Dailey of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Saturday, May 31, 2025 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Cliff was born November 24, 1930 in Kentucky to Thomson Dailey and Edith Pauline (Harp) Dailey. He was 94 years old.

Cliff was originally from Kansas. After retirement he and his lovely wife moved to Waldron, her childhood home town. Together they enjoyed working in the yard of their pristine home making it a showplace that caught the eye of passers by. They especially enjoyed decorating for Christmas. Cliff was retired from the United States Air Force after 23 years of dedicated service. He proudly served his country moving up the ranks and earning many commendations. Cliff was a character and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Cliff leaves behind to cherish his memory, his children: Cheryl Hodge and husband Paul and one son Keith Sanders as well as his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Cliff will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including an extended family, friends and loved ones.

Cliff was preceded in death by the love of his life, Genevieve, his parents and his siblings.

Cliff’s graveside celebration of life will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 2, 2025 at the Hawkins Cemetery in Parks, Arkansas. Interment will follow. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Barham Seeks Office of Prosecuting Attorney

News

Resident News Network

-

12:08 pm

0

Barham Seeks Office of Prosecuting Attorney

Tyler Barham announced he will seek the office of Prosecuting Attorney, 15th Judicial District in the March 3, 2026 Primary Election. The District covers Conway, Logan, Scott, and Yell Counties. The current Prosecuting Attorney, Tom Tatum, is not seeking re-election.

“I have served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in the judicial district for a number of years. Being Prosecuting Attorney is an important position, and I have a deep sense of commitment to the office, and I believe my firsthand experience in the justice system will be invaluable. I look forward to visiting with people in our communities to ask for their vote and support.”

Barham received a Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas School of Law, Fayetteville, and a BS Degree from the University. Barham Law Firm is in Paris.

In addition to serving as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and civil attorney for Logan County, he also serves as city attorney for Coal Hill and Lamar.

Active in his community, Barham is involved in a variety of civic services. Over the years he has supported organizations such as the Paris Boys and Girls Club, Rotary Club, Paris Area Chamber of Commerce, and numerous local nonprofits.

A lifelong resident of the district Barham grew up in Paris where he and his wife, Danielle, currently live with their three children. He and his family are members of First Baptist Church of Paris.