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Grand Prairie Quilters share their talent. (See pictures on page 4.)
Volume 121 Number 3 - USPS 225-680
Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie
Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Community Calendar of Events Wednesday January 19 Friendship Luncheon, DVB United Methodist Church, 11:30am -2pm. Wednesday January 19 Carlisle Public Library, “Pinch of This” (Adult Program), 4pm. Thursday January 20 Carlisle Public Library, Creation Station, (Children’s Program), 4:00pm Thursday January 20 Hazen City Council Meeting City Hall 6:00pm Friday January 21 Carlisle Public Library, Family Fun, 4pm. Thursday January 27 Food Distribution Hazen Methodist Church
10:00 a.m.-noon
Tuesday February 1 Black History Month Begins. Tuesday February 1 Master Gardeners meet. Community events brought to you by Hazen Chamber of Commerce
and the Please call F&M Bank (255-3042) or The Grand Prairie Herald (255-4538) to list events.
The Prairie County Quorum Court discussed possible changes in its organization, but that discussion will have to wait until Judge Mike Skarda returns.
PC Quorum Court discusses audit and changes The Prairie County Quorum Court met for an abbreviated session on Tuesday, January 11. The only business on the agenda was the discussion of the 2020 Legislative Audit findings. All of the justices were present, with the exception of Lynn Hatcher who was absent. Judge Mike Skarda was also absent, and
Justice Lawrence Holloway was voted to be in charge of the meeting. County Clerk Gaylon Hale, County Treasurer Tamara Dabney, and County Attorney Abram Skarda were also present. According to Skarda, the state legislative auditing committee found no problems with the county finances in 2020. There had been
some problems with the county budget audits in the past. “We owe a round of applause for our county officials,” Holloway said. Holloway, who is the chair of the budget committee, also reported that the county sales taxes were ahead of expectations this past year. At the end of the meeting, Justice Rick
Stallings handed out a list of some organizational suggestions taken from the Arkansas Association of Counties that included setting the organizational structure of the court at the January meeting. He also suggested that the court choose a permanent person to stand in for the judge when he is absent. Skarda said that the statute concerning
who can preside over quorum court meetings does not call for a permanent “stand in” position, only that a person must be chosen from the body of the court. Stallings also wanted to set a deadline for the budget report, but Holloway stated, “That’s the executive’s job.” With no other business or discussion, the court adjourned.
Hazen School Board given state COVID guidelines Superintendent Donnie Boothe handed out a copy of the Arkansas Ready for Learning COVID guidelines to the Hazen School Board in its regular January meeting held on Monday, January 10. Board Members Darlene Connors and Roben Cohen were absent from the meeting. There was little discussion about the handout other than members asking when the schools would not be able to hold classes at the school and go to a virtual school status. Boothe said that the schools would probably go to virtual when 40-50% of the student body was absent due to the virus or when there were not enough faculty members to hold classes. At the time of the meeting, approximately 30% of the students were not attending classes. “There’s no rule,” Boothe said. But Boothe did say that the district has 10 AMI days that could be used. “If anything happens, we’re ready to go,” he said. The handout recommends that the schools continue the safety precautions of vaccinations, disinfecting, ventilation, physical distancing (3 feet between people for schools), face coverings, and good hand hygiene. Isolation for at least 5 days is required for anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 regardless of vaccination status, but if after those 5 days the person has no symptoms the person can return to school as long as they continue to wear a mask for another 5 days. Those with fever must stay home until the fever is gone for 24 hours. If you came into close contact with some-
Sarah Snider (left photo) was presented with a certificate stating her certification as a school finance officer, and School Board President Vicki Skarda was presented a plaque for 50 hours of school board training. Superintendent Donnie Boothe made the presentations. one with COVID-19 and have had all of the recommended vaccine doses, including a booster or have had the virus within the last 90 days, you do not need to quarantine. Exposed persons also will not have to quarantine if they have no symptoms and if both the exposed person and the infected person were wearing a mask properly. If at least 70% of the people in the school are vaccinated, then individuals in the school are not required to quarantine, but Boothe said that Hazen is “not there yet.” Anyone who is unable to wear a mask, no matter what the reason, should complete a full 10 days of quarantine. In other business, the board approve a resolution for the local support of the 2022 Facilities Master Plan and Partnership project application for the 2023 -2025 biennium and approved the superintendent’s recommendation to pay stipends of $25/hour for four staff members who provided after school detention during the first semes-
ter. They also accepted the resignation of H.I.P.P.Y paraprofessional Susan Hueller-Fritz effective January 4, 2022. Elementary Principal Tiffany Glover reported that because of quarantines, several staff members were out in her building. “We’re doing the best we can,” she said. High School Principal Mark Price said that the basketball schedule had some changes due to COVID-
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19, but the AMI packets were ready if needed. He also said that the fabric over the greenhouse had been cut over the Christmas holidays, but a camera system is now watching the area. He said that seeds had been ordered for plants that would be sold in the spring. The board went into executive session from 6:22 p.m. until 6:48 p.m., but took no action after returning. During the session, the board
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discussed the superintendent’s evaluation. At the end of the meeting, Sarah Snider was congratulated for receiving her School Finance Officer certification and was presented the certificate. President Vicki Skarda also received a plaque for completing 50 hours of school board training. The next Hazen School Board meeting will be held on February 7th at 6:00 p.m. in the high school library.
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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Charles Hanson Senior Master Sergeant USAF (ret) Charles (Chuck) A. Hanson (81) p a s s e d peacefully in his sleep at home where he wanted to be- in the early morning hours of December 24th. He was born on April 8, 1940 in Independence, Missouri. He was preceded in death by both parents, Elveta (Veta) Hanson and Fredrick William Hanson of Independence, MO; his brother, Jimmy Don; his son, William Donald Hanson, and his stepdaughter Jennifer Glover of Des Arc, Arkansas. He is survived by his wife Teresa Pugh Hanson of Des Arc; son, James ( Jim ) Hanson and his wife Carolyn of Pace, Florida; daughter, Melissa Kennedy and her husband Robert of Maumelle, Arkansas; stepson, Eddie Kemp of Alamogordo, New Mexico; and grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many friends. After his retirement, Chuck became a very successful realtor, then started building homes and businesses. His reputation as a contractor was unmatched and he was a stickler for detail. He was also very active in the local business community and well respected. My personal memories of Dad was that we moved many times and following him to all the different bases within the United States and abroad. With each move Dad would change our surroundings giving my
brother and I a greater view of what this world offers. Dad was the kind of person that would do anything for another person, if he knew they really needed help, and he knew the difference.
Miller Wayne Silverman Miller Wayne Silverman, the infant son of Andrew and Sara Silverman, was born January 12, 2022 into the loving arms of Jesus. He weighed 4 pounds and 17.75 inches long. He is survived by his parents, brother, Jackson. sister, Parker, and brother, Bennett; grandparents, David and Shelia Woods of Carlisle, Detroy Silverman, Jr. of Humphrey and Sheila Robinson of Stuttgart, great-grandparents, Hurselene Silverman of Humphrey, Shelia Childress of Scott, Katherine Skaggs of Carlisle and William Miller of Lonoke; aunts, Emily Woods of Carlisle, Jennifer Woods of Miami Beach, Florida, Michelle Robinson of Stuttgart and Yvonne Robinson of Little Rock; uncles, Barry Childress of Scott, Gavin Lawson of Scott, Lamar Robinson and Braylyn Robinson both of Stuttgart and numerous great aunts, great uncles, and cousins who love him very much. He was greeted in Heaven by great-grandparents, Wes and Ruth Woods, Carl Skaggs, Detroy Silverman, Sr., and Charles Childress. A graveside memorial service will be held on Monday, January 17, 2022 at 2:30 p.m. at Carlisle Cemetery in Carlisle, Arkansas with arrangements by Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen.
Willis G. Tucker
Arkansas Press Association Member 2020
The
Grand Prairie Herald (USPS) 225-680 The Grand Prairie Herald is an independent publication that has served Prairie County since December, 1901. It is published weekly by
Herald Publishing Company P.O. Box 370 111 Hwy 70 E Hazen, Arkansas 72064 Ph. 870-255-4538 Email: heraldpublishing@gmail.com
Subscription Rates In Prairie County $20.00/year In Arkansas $25.00/year Out of State $30.00/year Periodicals Postage paid at Hazen, Arkansas 72064 POSTMASTER: Send Address Changes to: Grand Prairie Herald P.O.Box 370 Hazen, Arkansas 72064 Managing Editor/Publisher Roxanne Bradow Circulation/Accounts Trudy Johnson Sports Editor Mark Buffalo Photographer Ruth Corley
Willis G. Tucker was greeted into the open
arms of his Savior on January 13, 2022. Born and raised in Arkansas, Willis was born with music in his heart, playing piano and banjo, which he would later teach his grandchildren to play. He shared these musical talents with his church, where he made a joyful noise with all of his heart, playing the old gospel hymns. After retiring from Keeler Brass following 50 years, he went on to operate a furniture business with his step-son, selling country primitive furniture. In his spare time, Willis was an old car fanatic, and loved working on his old Model A and Model T. He has a great sense of humor to the very end, and was always making his family laugh. A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Willis loved his family above everything, and we will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his daughter Denise Oliver, father S.L. Tucker, mother Esther Tucker, and sisters Rachel Page, Frankie Kellum, and Dorothy Thorpe. He is survived by his daughters: Deb (Bobby) Lewis, Laurie Linton; step-son Tory Carter; grandchildren: Kari Lawrence, Nolan (Pam) Ferris, Dylan (Trinity) Crittenden, Mike (Amanda) Kelly, Raymond Linton; greatgrandchildren: Madison Kosters, Mayci Overweg, Taylor Ferris, Nora Crittenden, Ellie Crittenden, Adrian Kelly, Noah Kelly; dear friend Ina Tucker; many nieces and nephews. Please join the family on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 from 5:00-8:00pm at Lakeshore Memorial Services to share memories, look at photos, and sing some old southern hymns - feel free to bring your instrument to play with all of us. Willis will be laid to rest in Zeeland Cemetery. Please visit www.lakeshorememorial.com to leave a memory for the family.
Beverly Holmes Kelly Beverly Holmes Kelly, 70, of Hazen was welcome to enjoy eternity with her Lord and Savior on January 14, 2022. She was born to the late John and Joy Faye Holmes. She was a member of centerpoint missionary Baptist Church. Beverly embraced life. She was always faced with love and laughter. That legacy is what she leaves to her family and friends. Her greatest joy was spending time with family. This includes cooking fried chicken and deer meat, having breakfast waiting on her favorite Deerhunters and
always meeting each one of us with a hug. In the last five years her days were filled with joy and love as she was blessed with raising Melanie, her great granddaughter. As she entered heaven, she was greeted by her oldest daughter Becky Miller Taylor. The family waiting to join her in heaven is her husband Gene Kelly, her daughters name Leslie (Wes) Cates, Jamie (Paul) Blumhorst, stepson Steve (Lindsey) Kelly and his family. She cherished her grandchildren Carmen (Cody) Ellison, Katie Taylor, Devan (Michael) Tillman, Heather Kinley, Braxton (Brooklyn) Kinley, Micah Cate, Tanner Blumhorst and Payton Blumhorst. Her love was extended to her great grandchildren John Preston and Phoebe
Ellison, Lucas and Melanie Taylor, and Caleb and Casey Tillman. She cherished her brother and best friend Dennis Holmes and three sisters Pam (Allen) Watson Jacqueline (Don) Campbell and Teresa Holmes. She touched the life of all her nieces nephews, including the great nieces and nephews. The family greeted family and friends during the visitation at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen on Monday, January 17 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Beverly celebration service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, January 18 at Centerpoint Missionary Baptist Church in Hazen. Dennis Holmes and Billy Booth led the service.
DVB Council approves 2022 budget By Lisa Mills At the January 13th meeting, the DeValls Bluff City Council passed a re3solution to adopt the 2022 proposed budget. A resolution was also passed to amend the 2021 budget. Attending the meeting were Mayor Brian D o d s o n , Treasurer/Recorder Darlene Connor and council members Alice Metcalf, Richard Henry, Marie Flanagan, Raymond Watson, Carol Griffin and Lalisa
Wright. Mayor Dodson reported that he and Mr. Hilsdon will be meeting with Attorney Mike Stuart to begin drawing up contracts to begin the water and sewer projects. He also said he had learned that the grant for the engineering phase is a 100% grant. Dodson said that 5 resumes have been received for the Police Chief position and applicant packets will be sent to them. In regards to the “Robinson property” project, Dodson reported that
re3novations are is moving forward and 1800 bricks had been purchased from the city for the project. Sheriff Rick Hickman reported from December 9th through January 13th there were 187 patrols and 18 calls. Calls included 1 accident, 1 house fire, 1 criminal mischief, 1 suspicious person, 1 theft, 1 civil standby, 1 unwanted person, 1 door kicked in, 1 loud music, 1 motorist assist, 5 medical calls and 3 welfare checks.
Arkansas receives at-home testing kits to be distributed free to public LITTLE ROCK – In December, Governor Hutchinson directed the Arkansas Department of Health to acquire 1.5 million rapid at-home tests to be available for free to Arkansans. Arkansas has received the first shipment of 211,000 at-home testing kits and the process of delivering those to the respective distribution locations will begin shortly. Governor Hutchinson said that the cost of these tests is around $10 million and will be covered by existing funds available in the COVID response budget. The tests will be available at public local libraries, public health units, and other locations. The
National Guard will be assisting in the delivery of these at-home tests. Expanding Hospital Beds Governor Hutchinson requested $50 million be distributed to hospitals around the state to fund extra beds which will be used to help with the surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations. This request was approved by the Arkansas American Rescue Plan Act Steering Committee, and the disbursement of this funding requires legislative approval. Governor Hutchinson created the Arkansas American Rescue Plan Act Steering Committee in 2020 to make recommendations on the distribution of approxi-
mately $1.57 billion in funding from the federal government. The proposed plan includes adding 98 COVID ICU beds and 167 COVID medical beds to be funded for timelines of 28-45 days based on the recommendations from the Arkansas Department of Health. The hospitals which will receive those beds are: St. Bernards Medical Center, Mercy Rogers, Conway Regional, SVI - LR, SVI Hot Springs, Washington Regional, Unity Health - White County, Baptist Health Conway, Baptist Health - Van Buren, Mercy Fort Smith, and Arkansas Children's.
I, Dewayne Chappell, a longtime resident and farmer in Prairie County, announce my candidacy for County Judge. I believe my education and past work experience make me capable of executing the duties of this office I graduated from Des Arc High School in 1973. I then attended the University of Arkansas and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture in 1978. Upon graduation, my wife Nancy Siitonen Chappell and I moved back to Des Arc and began a farming operation which continued for 37 years. During that time, I served on the Farmers Gin Co-op Board of Directors, the East Prairie Water Board of Directors, and the Arkansas Agricultural Board of Directors. Each of these gave me experience in working with people and working within the budgets that those organizations represented. If elected, I will continue to carry on the great work Judge Skarda has done. I will serve Prairie County diligently as it continues to improve and prosper. I am looking forward to visiting with fellow residents of Prairie County and talking about the future of our great home. I will file as an independent, and if elected, I will serve in a manner that does not involve partisan politics in our county government. Unity, not division, will be my focus for our county.
Dewayne Chappell
Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Work completed on WRID Canal 1000 Groundwork for White River Irrigation District’s (WRID) Canal 1000 is complete. This is a momentous step in bringing water to area farmers in portions of Prairie, Arkansas, Lonoke and Monroe Counties. Work began on the twomile section near DeValls Bluff on July 1, 2021 and wrapped up just before Christmas Day. This project will be signed off as complete once final inspections are approved through the multiple agencies that helped make this possible. “We have done everything on the ground. The seeding and mulch are complete,” Tony Stevenson, WRID water management engineer, explained. “We are ready to make final payment. All the work is completed.” For nearly three years the WRID has been focused on the canal construction after the completion of the 70acre reservoir, also near DeValls Bluff. “It has been a long three years, but the next three years will show that the effort was
all worth it,” WRID Board President Dan Hooks said. “We have a lot to do, but it will be an exciting time when water is flowing to the farms through this canal and the distribution pipelines.” Prior work includes a pump station, 7,500 feet of twin 10-foot diameter pipelines and the regulating reservoir constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As the WRID celebrates this achievement they look to continue this momentum. According to Dennis Carman, director and chief engineer for WRID, the district has awarded a $393,000 contract for the delivery of 10-foot square box culverts for the Downs Road crossing in Prairie County. “A second bid has been opened for placement of the boxes and roadway,” Carman said. “Two more county road crossing designs are being completed by Michael Baker International Engineers, and state Highway 63 and 70 crossings are being evaluated for box culverts
rather than bridges. We believe changing from the current bridge concept to box culverts will be easier to maintain and save significant money.” Along with the box culvert designs by Michael Baker Engineers, Natural Resources Conservation Service has also delivered the design for the next canal segment. “We don’t know what the weather will be like for the next few months, but next summer and fall should be a busy time with the road crossings and canal work underway,” Carman added. The prime contractor for Canal 1000 is Garrett Excavating, of Hot Springs, with local contractors John Neukam, of DeWitt, and Dale Shook, of Casscoe/Stuttgart, doing most of the dirt work. The bids for this work ranged from $3.6 million to $5.2 million. Money was secured through a National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) grant along with loans from the Arkansas Agriculture Department.
Hazen Elementary announces 2nd Nine Weeks Honor Roll 2nd Nine Weeks Honor Roll 2nd Grade Liam Bowman*, Destin Butler, Austin Carpenter, Ella Carroll*, Christopher Essex, Wyatt Flatness*, Noah Hare, Tyler Hollander, Madelyn Lindsey*, Dalton Marks, James McDaniel*, Isaiah Metcalf*, Aaryn Owens*, Kyl Peeples, London Raper, Asher Rogers, Archer Skarda*, Scarlett Snider, Jaleah Sullivan*, Cameron Taylor*, Braxton Tosh, Abbygail Vick* 3rd Grade Beckett Adams, Storm Antilley*, Madox Beatty*, Mason Beatty, Kinlee Boothe*, Joshua
Cooper*, Jaicee Dolphin*, Ella Duval*, Olivia Edge*, Bentley Hodges, Vince King*, Cooper McElroy*, McKinley Owens, Jayli Penn, Lane Petty, Bella Raper*, Kennedy Raper, Cameron Seely, Eden Sims*, Cache Skarda, Jaycee Thomas*, McKenzi Turner 4th Grade Harper Cook*, Braydon Davies, Jacob Geisler*, Payton Glover, Twylla Harsson*, Pierce Henderson*, Luna Horton*, Austin Kee, JaCoby King, Addy Leach, Trace Martin, Wyatt McMullen, Abigail Owens*, Lillian Sayger, Jacob Swink, Makenzie Taylor*, Lylliana Threlkeld*,
Keaton Weems 5th Grade Gavin Boland, Addie Carroll*, Mathew Essex, Xachary George*, Calle Gray*, Pierson Griffith, Dalton Jones, Kayleigh Linder*, Peyton Lisko, Braxton Mills, Kami Perry*, Landon Spradlin, Zackary Threlkeld, Michael Wright 6th Grade Kiera Anderson*, Payten Bacon, Zoey Barnhill*, Reece Cash, Jaxon Craig*, Izzy Gaither-Taylor, Shayne Gillioun*, Madison Graham*, Makaela Guenther*, Weston Hare, Bryan Harrison, Chloe Hinshaw*, Emma Hollis*, Jacob Kitchens, Ethan Lindsey, Rileigh McIntosh, Jaylon Mullins, McKenzi Owens, River Pennington, Leigha Raney, Taylor Reynolds, Bella Roberts*, Paycen Seely, Kennedy Self*, John Simmons*, Chloe Smith*, Justis Smith, CJ Swaim, Tesla Van Houten *Denotes all A’s
Stuttgart native named Junior Sailor of the Quarter serving in Rota, Spain By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach MILLINGTON, Tenn. A Stuttgart, Arkansas, native was named Junior Sailor of the Quarter for the fourth quarter of fiscal Year 2021 serving with Public Works Department (PWD) Rota, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Europe Africa Southwest Asia (NAVFAC EURAFSWA). The Sailor of the Quarter program recognizes the superior performance of enlisted personnel and emphasize outstanding achievement, exemplary personal conduct, exceptional military bearing and superb initiative. Petty Officer 2nd Class Alex Jackson is a Navy Seabee and equipment operator responsible for operating heavy transportation and construction equipment including, trucks, bulldozers, backhoes, graders, forklifts, cranes and asphalt equipment. "My favorite part of being a Seabee is how versatile of a job it is," said Jackson. "One day you are operating a crane in Spain and the next, you are building schools in the Philippines." The Navy Seabees are an elite group of person-
nel trained in both combat and the craft skills of the construction industry. Seabees have served in all American conflicts for nearly 80 years and have also supported humanitarian efforts using their construction skills to help communities around the world following earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters. According to Jackson, who joined the Navy to better himself as a human being, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Stuttgart. "I learned to treat everybody the way I want to be treated," said Jackson. "When you treat people respectfully you tend to get respect back, and it makes you a better leader." Located at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain, PWD Rota is a forward deployed extension of NAVFAC EURAFSWA and as such provides quality construction, proactive operational support for utilities and infrastructure services and expert engineering solutions to the DoD tenants aboard NAVSTA Rota. NAVFAC EURAFSWA manages facility project planning and design, including all related acquisition, construction, leasing, environ-
mental, maintenance and contingency support required by the Navy and Department of Defense commands throughout Europe, Southwest Asia and the Gulf of Guinea, Africa and the Horn of Africa. Serving in the Navy means Jackson is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy. "According to Navy officials, maintaining maritime superiority is a vital part of a Navy that is present today and prepared for tomorrow," said Jackson. "The impact affects Americans and their interests around the world, as more than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by water and 90 percent of all trade travels by sea." Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Jackson is most proud of building schools in the Philippines. "I was very proud to see the impact that we had on the community," said Jackson. "It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life."
USDA to invest up to $225 million on agricultural and forest conservation WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced up to $225 million in available funding for conservation partners through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). RCPP is a partner-driven program that leverages collective resources to find solutions to address natural resource challenges on agricultural land. This year’s funding announcements include opportunities for projects that address climate change, benefit historically underserved producers and support urban agriculture. “RCPP is public-private partnership at its best,” said Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Chief
Terry Cosby. “We’re harnessing the power of partnership to create lasting solutions to global challenges, like climate change, and support producers and communities who have been underserved in the past.” There are two types of funding opportunities under RCPP: RCPP Classic and RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA). RCPP Classic projects are implemented using NRCS contracts and easements with producers, landowners and communities, in collaboration with project partners. Through RCPP AFA, partners have more flexibility in working directly with agricultural producers to support the development of new conserva-
tion structures and approaches that would not otherwise be available under RCPP Classic. Project types that may be suited to AFA, as highlighted by the 2018 Farm Bill include: Projects that use innovative approaches to leverage the federal investment in conservation. Projects that deploy a p a y - fo r - p e r fo r m a n c e conservation approach. Projects that seek large-scale infrastructure investment that generate conservation benefits for agricultural producers and nonindustrial private forest owners. USDA is accepting project proposals for both components of RCPP through 11:59 p.m. on April 13, 2022. View the funding opportunity on grants.gov for RCPP Classic and RCPP AFA. Additionally, a webinar with general program information for RCPP applicants is scheduled for 3-4:30 p.m. ET on Jan. 20, 2022. Visit the RCPP website for information on how to participate.
Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Grand Prairie quilters share their projects By Marsha Heien The Grand Prairie Quilt Society met January 12, 2022 for their Sit 'n Sew at the First Christian Church fellowship hall, Stuttgart, with 9 members present. Glenda opened the meeting by welcoming everyone to "kick off the New Year" together....she continue with the "Thought for the Day," .... Oh, the weather outside is frightful But my fabric is so delightful And since I've no place to go... Let me sew, let me sew, let me sew. I don't see signs of stopping And my ideas are a' popping Unless my stash gets down low.... Let me sew, let me sew, let me sew. When I finally get set at night And my blocks are cut out right I won't have to go out in the storm....
sew... Let me sew, let me sew, let me sew. Happy Birthday greetings were extended to Betty, we called her on the phone and everyone serenaded her with a lively rendition of "Happy Birthday to You." Under Old Business, we have 8 signed for Country Quilt Camp VIII at Cross Heirs Retreat Center in Humphrey, on June 2-5, 2022. Registration is still open. Marsha read a thank you letter from Arkansas Children's Hospital for Ann's pillowcases and Maeola's Ladybug pillows: from the letter..."Your thoughtful donation will help deliver joy to patients and families at Arkansas Children's during the holiday season and beyond--thank you! The generous gift of your time and talent to create these beautiful, handmade gifts will help brighten the holidays for kids and their
Kay's fabric crosses So I'm making a quilt that is warm. The fire is slowly dying And I'm not out a buying But as long as I love to
families, who are struggling right now to cope with serious illnesses and devasting injuries. Because of you, kids are better today and will be
Maeola's baby quilt. better tomorrow. Thank you for being a champion for children at Arkansas Children's!..." New Business: Glenda asked the members to bring ideas for a civic project for 2022 to the next meeting. Past endeavors have included lap robes and colorful pillowcases for Crestpark, items for Arkansas Children's Hospital, and baby items for Hope of the Delta. Also, don't forget to bring beans to the church for the ICCM food bank. Show and Share: Glenda had a vintage smocked baby dress, circa 1950, that she made for her niece. Now that niece needs it repaired so she can give it to HER granddaughter. Glenda has also made an assortment of crocheted baby hats for Hope of the Delta. Marsha showed some special embroidery scissors she received as a Xmas gift.
A vintage smocked baby dress, circa 1950's made by Glenda.
Assortment of handmade items from Kay's family. Ann brought a bag of fabric remnants that
were gleefully received by the members as they
searched for treasures to take home to transform into something new. Kay had a set of her fabric crosses and an assortment of handmade items made by her family....a pieced pillow made by her aunt and several Xmas motifs made by her mother years ago. Charlotte showed a striking Horse portrait made from counted cross-stitch. Shelley had an interesting fabric-covered box just right for those special collections. She also had a cute reading titled: The Ten Commandments of My Sewing Room: In My Sewing Room Thou Shalt Not: Ask when it will be finished Cut anything with my fabric scissors Request that I hem your pants Speak to me as I hold a seam ripper Tell me I have too much fabric Push buttons on my sewing machine Bring me your clothes to be ironed Pull on any loose threads Wonder aloud why I'm still in my pajamas Come looking for food; this isn't the kitchen. The subject of dues was tabled for 2022 and will be revisited again in 2023. Several members donated money for beans for the ICCM food bank. The meeting was adjourned and after lunch members got busy with their various projects. Shelley worked on a Mojo doll, Maeola sewed on the blue tote bags for Children's Hospital, Kay needlepointed and Charlotte worked on her quilt. Marsha crocheted on her Afghan and Glenda and Ann discussed future projects. The next meeting will be February 9th at the church.
HHS announces 2nd nine weeks and semester honor rolls 2021/2022 Hazen High School 2nd Nine Weeks Honor Roll 7th Grade Michael Bowman*, Ryleigh Cook*, Jacob Grable, Isabelle Gray*, Kylee Jackson, Kylee McElroy, Kiersten Shatzer, Jase Simmons, Bailey Sims, Luke Snider, Jalynn Thomas*, Kadence Weems* 8th Grade Alantis Blancett, Wesley Clifton, Peyton Kocourek, Ethan Lisko, Emily Mills, Maddox Prine, Sophie Raper*, Hayden Rogers, Maci Sickel*, Dylan Skarda* 9th Grade Rileigh Barnhill, Chloe Caldwell, Faith Duell, Alexis Dulany, Pheonix Ervin*, Jaci Hackelton, Carson Kee, Karly Kinard, Austin Kocourek, Ryan Martin, Laila Schultz, Hope Seeber, Kendall Sisemore, Brance Williams 10th Grade Austyn Booth*, Shelby Brown*, Savannah Glover, Colton Holloway, Cleo Huelsmann, Grayson Lott, Allison Prine, Shanerika Roland, Kaycie Seely, Brooke Wooten 11th Grade Kelcie Dorathy, Lane Harper*, Cora Hodge,
Brett Jordan, Remi Kajiyama*, Luke King*, Holden Lawless, Ece Maral*, Sakura Onozaki*, Natalie Robinson, Ivan R o d r i g u e z , Layton Rogers, Griffin Shultz, Greenlee Simmons, Halli Sisemore, Shakeva Washington 12th Grade Maci Bokker*, Wesley Clayton*, Halley Cossey*, Larry Craig, Austin Duck, Trelby Gipson, Malik Heard, Faithe Hussey, Emma Hyatt, Gabriel Johnson*, Kelsey Kinard, Lyndsey Lawman, Jake Leavy*, Daja Pargo, Gabe Pfleger*, Whitney Sayger*, Rosalie Shuck*, Laney Shultz, Hailey Smith*, Cayden Stallings, Sidnee Steeland, Benjamin Tomboli, Braiden Tosh*, Shedrick Ward*
2021/2022 Hazen High School Semester Honor Roll 7th Grade Jase Arnett, Michael Bowman*, Cayden Calvert, Ryleigh Cook*, Landyn George, Isabelle Gray*, Kylee Jackson, Hannah Linder, Destiny Martin, Kylee McElroy*, Cael Robnett, Jase Simmons,
Bailey Sims, Luke Snider, Jalynn Thomas*, Kadence Weems* 8th Grade Peyton Anderson, Chase Heinmiller, Peyton Kocourek, Ethan Lisko*, Gabby Morgan, Maddox Prine*, Sophie Raper*, Maci Sickel*, Dylan Skarda* 9th Grade Rileigh Barnhill*, Emma Cantwell, Faith Duell, Alexis Dulany*, Pheonix Ervin, Jaci Hackelton, Madison Humbert, Joseph Hurley, Carson Kee, Karly Kinard, Austin Kocourek, Ryan Martin, Makayla
McCray, Laila Schultz, Hope Seeber, Kendall Sisemore*, Brance Williams* 10th Grade Kamryn Blackard, Austyn Booth*, Shelby Brown*, Savannah Glover*, Cleo H u e l s m a n n * , Grayson Lott, Allison Prine, Shanerika Roland, Kaycie Seely 11th Grade Lane Harper*, Cora Hodge*, Remi Kajiyama*, Luke King*, Ece Maral, Sakura Onozaki*, Levi Powers, Natalie Robinson, Ivan Rodriguez, Layton Rogers, Ran Seike*, Griffin Shultz, Shakeva
Washington, Brooke Weems 12th Grade Maci Bokker*, Wesley Clayton*, Halley Cossey*, Larry Craig, Austin Duck, Trelby Gipson, Faithe Hussey, Emma Hyatt, Gabriel Johnson*, Kelsey Kinard, Lyndsey Lawman, Jake Leavy*,
Daja Pargo, Gabe Pfleger*, Whitney Sayger*, Rosalie Shuck*, Laney Shultz, Hailey Smith*, Cayden Stallings, Sidnee Steeland, Benjamin Tomboli, Braiden Tosh*, Shedrick Ward* Denotes All A’s for 9 weeks and semester *
Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Piano Lessons Want to play keyboard like a pro? Now you can! “Piano Lessons by Samuel” offers lessons from beginner to collegiate levels. We’re located in Hazen with in-home lesson options. Call 501-680-6489.
Bowman Plumbing Serving the Entire Grand Prairie Adam Bowman, MP 6142 Repair - Remodel New Construction Dependable Service Free Estimates Family Owned and Operated Call: (870) 256-5230
Chambers Nursing & Rehab Center Carlisle, AR
Housekeeper Phone # 870-552-7150 Email: cnhc@chambers.care
Find all of your city and county news in the Grand Prairie Herald each Wednesday
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Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Prairie County redistricting completed
The Carlisle Lady Bison listen to pregame instructions from Coach Jonathan Buffalo prior to their game with Riverview in the Goldfish Classic at the Gina Cox Center in Lonoke. (Mark Buffalo photo.)
Basketball delayed By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor The three schools in the Grand Prairie Herald coverage area have been delayed playing several basketball games the past month because of COVID-19. The Des Arc Lady Eagles are currently 2-7 on the season with wins over Carlisle and Newport. The Des Arc Eagles are 4-8 with wins over KIPP Delta, PalestineWheatley, Bradford and Scott Charter School.
The Carlisle Lady Bison are 7-8 with wins over Riverview, Abundant Life, Jacksonville Lighthouse, Pulaski County Home School, Hazen, Brinkley and Barton. The Carlisle Bison are 8-5, having one of it’s best seasons in a decade. They have wins over Bauxite, Abundant Life, Bismarck, KIPP Delta, Hazen, Bradford, DeWitt and Des Arc. The Hazen Lady Hornets are 0-3 The Hazen Hornets are 0-4.
Pre-fiscal budget hearings began this week with the Governor outlining his balanced budget proposal calling for a 3.3% increase in spending. We will be reviewing the proposal while we continue to hear requests from state agencies and commissions in the days ahead. As we prepare for the 2022 Fiscal Session, we want to remind you of another series of legislative meetings with a significant impact on our state. Earlier this month, the House and Senate Education Committees met to begin the 2022 Adequacy Study. Public education is the largest spending category in state government. The Adequacy Study statute requires the House and Senate Education Committees
to evaluate the entire spectrum of public education to determine whether students receive equal opportunity for an adequate education. Committee members research everything from teacher salaries to technology needs. Arkansas uses a specific formula, known as the matrix, to arrive at the per-student funding amount. The current foundation funding for public education in Arkansas is $7,182 per student. It is scheduled to increase to $7,349 per student for the 2022-2023 school year. Arkansas ranks 38th in the nation on spending per student. In February, the committees will review state-level and districtlevel funding and spending.
$3.9 million, or 1 percent, bringing its annual spending level to $379 million. The Division of Community Correction has residential treatment centers, and is in charge of probation and parole. Its annual budget would increase by 0.78 percent, or $753,000, to $97.7 million for Fiscal Year 2023. About 55 percent of the state’s general revenue fund goes for education.
That
State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Jonathan Dismang LITTLE ROCK – The legislature has begun budget hearings in preparation for the 2022 fiscal session, which begins on February 14. Legislators will consider the governor’s proposed balanced budget of about $6 billion for Fiscal Year 2023, which officially begins on July 1. The governor’s proposal would increase state general revenue spending by 3.3 percent over this year’s budget. This year’s budget is about $5.85 billion and the governor proposes to increase it to $6.04 billion. The governor’s proposed budget is a starting point, and the legislature will finalize all financial decisions, because under the Arkansas Constitution the legislature has the power to authorize state government spending. No matter how the legislature changes the governor’s spending plans, the final version of next year’s budget will be balanced. Arkansas does not deficit spend. If tax revenue declines due to an
unforeseen economic downturn, state spending will be reduced proportionately. The governor proposes to increase the Public School Fund by $69.6 million, 3.08 percent. That would bring the fund to $2.33 billion. The governor proposes an increase of $66.3 million in the Department of Human Services budget. That is a 3.72 percent increase, and would bring the state’s share of the DHS budget to $1.85 billion. The federal government provides matching funds for services offered by DHS. Medicaid is the main one. The Children and Family Services Division within DHS administers foster care, child welfare and adoption services. The governor’s proposal would increase funding for child protective services. The budget proposal would reduce the waiting list of families who need home care or community care for loved ones with developmental disabilities. Now, there are a little more than 3,000 people on the
waiting list. The governor and legislative leaders are trying to eliminate the need for a waiting list by 2025. Four-year universities would receive an additional $12.2 million in state aid under the budget proposal. That is a 2 percent increase over the $612 million that universities get this year. Two-year colleges now receive about $118 million in state aid. The proposed budget would
increase that to $119 million. The increase would be 0.69 percent. The State Police would get a 10.6 percent increase, from $70.6 million to $78 million. The governor said that raising pay for State Troopers would be an incentive for local law enforcement agencies to make their salaries more competitive. The Division of Correction, which operates state prison units, would get an increase of
includes institutions of higher education, which get 13 percent, and K12, which gets 40 percent. The state Education Division gets 2 percent. About 32 percent of state general revenue is spent on health and human services, and about 8 percent on prisons and correctional institutions. Various smaller agencies receive the rest.