75¢
Snow on the Grand Prairie (see p.6)
Volume 117 Number 7 - USPS 225-680
Community Events Calendar
Prairie County, Arkansas
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Prairie gets snowfall and low temps
Thursday January 25 Bingo Hazen Public Library Commodities Distribution First United Methodist Church 10:30am-12:30pm Friday January 26 Hornet Basketball VS Clarendon Lions Hornets’ Nest 4:30pm 7B, JG, SG, SB Tuesday January 30 Master Gardeners Meeting Bancorp South 6:00 pm Monday February 5 Chamber of Commerce Meeting Bancorp South 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Biscoe City Council Meeting City Hall 7:00 pm Thursday February 8 DeValls Bluff City Council Meeting City Hall 6:00 pm Hazen Lodge Meeting Lodge Hall 7:30 pm Monday February 12 Hazen Chapter # 5 OES Meeting Bancorp South 6:15 pm 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.
Dondies in the snow... The White River Princess was cloaked in snow this past week after the Grand Prairie got two to four (or more) inches of snow on top of record cold temperatures. Schools were out for snow days all across the state.
PAT certification begins in February Brent Griffin CEA- Staff Chair U of A, Prairie County Cooperative Extension Service The Prairie County Cooperative Extension Service will be holding its annual Private Applicator Training (PAT) in order for you to be certified or recertified for your restricted use pesticide (RUP) license. This is the license that you must possess in order to purchase restricted use pesticides such as Atrazine. 2-4D etc. This license is required by the Arkansas State Plant Board and is for private use only, not for commercial applications. You should have received (or will receive) notification from the Arkansas State Plant Board approximately one month prior to your old license expiring. This notification includes the application form you must have to order your new license from the Plant Board. You must send payment for your license to the Arkansas State Plant Board along with the application form after you have attended the PAT training. This year anyone can apply for a five year RUP
license. However, you still have the option of paying only one year at a time for the license. The applicator training itself is a totally separate expense from the license and will cost $10.00. This is to reimburse Extension's cost of educational materials, etc. This payment goes directly to Extension. You can make payment by check or cash. Make checks payable to Prairie County Extension Service. Be sure to bring your payment with you to the PAT meeting and we will collect it there. Again, this only covers your PAT training expense for Extension, not your RUP license fee to the State Plant Board. The date and location for the PAT training in Prairie County is as follows: "Thursday, February 8, 2018 at the Prairie County Fairgrounds near Hazen at 8:30 AM "Thursday, March 8, 2018 at the Prairie County Fairgrounds near Hazen at 8:30 AM Note: You must be on time and be there for the whole training in order to be certified. This will be the only
Dicamba use prohibited from April to October LITTLE ROCK, AR – Today, the Administrative Rules and Regulations Subcommittee of the Arkansas Legislative Council has reviewed and approved a rule proposed by the Arkansas State Plant Board that will prohibit the use of dicamba in Arkansas between April 16 and October 31. Regulations include exemptions for the use of dicamba in pastures, rangeland, turf, ornamental, direct injection for forestry, and home use. Read the entire proposed rule, here. On Friday the rule change will be considered by the full Arkansas Legislative Council at 9:00 a.m. Find a meeting agenda, here. Background: The State Plant Board voted on November 8th during a public hearing and board meeting to approve regulatory changes for the above referenced rule. On December 12, the Administrative Rules and R e g u l a t i o n s Subcommittee of the Arkansas Legislative Council considered the above referenced rule and approved a motion that it be held for final consideration and recommended
that the Arkansas State Plant Board consider its current rule and revise the rule using: 1) scientificbased evidence; 2) a dividing line to create north and south zones; and 3) ambient temperature and humidity applicable to temperature inversion during nighttime hours. On January 3, the State Plant Board’s Pesticide Committee and the full State Plant Board voted to maintain the proposed regulations as currently written, which were presented today, and reviewed and approved by the Administrative Rules and Regulations Subcommittee of the Arkansas Legislative Council. The Arkansas Agriculture Department is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Learn more: www.aad.arkansas.gov.
classes for Prairie County this year so try to make arrangements to attend. If you are unable to attend, you may attend training in any county of Arkansas. Feel free to contact us for a listing of other county meetings. If you do not attend training, you will have to make arrangements with the State Plant Board to meet with them and take an exam to obtain your license. There are no exams with the pesticide applicator trainings, but you must be present at the training. If you have any questions feel free to call us at (870)
998-2614 in De Valls Bluff Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (large print, audiotapes,
etc.) should notify the County Extension office (or other appropriate office) as soon as possible prior to the activity.
Ingle named to Williams Baptist President’s List (Walnut Ridge, Ark.) Hunter Ingle, son of Richie and Sonya Ingle, was recently named to Williams Baptist College President’s list for the first semester of the 201718 school year. The President’s List includes those full-time
students who achieved a perfect 4.0 grade point average. Williams is a four-year, liberal arts college in Walnut Ridge, Ark. It will formally become Williams Baptist University in July.
AR Soybean Association to hold annual seminar Jan.29 Little Rock, AR -The Arkansas Soybean Association has set Monday, January 29 as the date of their Annual Business Session and Seminar. The informative seminar and business session will be held at the Brinkley Convention Center (1501 Weatherby Dr, Brinkley, AR 72021) in Brinkley, Arkansas. Registration will begin at 8:15 a.m., program at 9:00 a.m. and will conclude in early-afternoon. Lunch will be provided by the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board and meeting sponsors. The program will include a report from the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board and recognition of the Grow for the Green Soybean Yield Challenge winners. Dr. Jeremy Ross will present an overview of the contest and provide information on what we have learned. Speakers scheduled at this time are Cynthia Edwards, Deputy
Secretary of Agriculture for Arkansas; Patrick Delaney, Director, Policy Communication, American Soybean Association.; Gary Sitzer, Chairman, Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board; and Dr. Gus Lorenz, Extension Entomologist. A tentative agenda is available online at www.arkansassoybean.com. Topics will cover Arkansas Agriculture, the latest on soybean insects, and an update on the Soybean Federal Policy Outlook. The Soybean Association will hold its Annual Business Session of membership. During this meeting, the winners of the 2017 Grow for the Green Yield Challenge will be recognized along with the newest 100 Bushel Club Members: Billy Wayne Tripp (Searcy), John Newkirk (Stuttgart), Mary Galloway (Gregory), and Jason Berry (DeWitt). The
2018 DuPont Young Leader, James Elton Wray (Truman) will also be recognized. Ag business reps will be present to answer your questions. We will also be holding a live auction to raise additional funds for special projects. Auction items, provided by members of the soybean industry, include soybean seed, crop protection chemicals, fish cookers, custom applications, pearls, and many other similar items. Arkansas President AJ Hood said recently, “This is a busy time of year for all producers and we have designed our meeting to meet the needs of our membership. We are providing information we feel is important to producers in a day.” All are invited to attend and bring a friend. CEU credits will be available. For more information, please contact the office at 501-666-1418 or swsoy@aristotle.net.
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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Johnie Mae Siitonen Johnie Mae Siitonen, loving mother & wife, 93, of Des Arc, AR, died on January 20, 2018, at Des A r c Nursing a n d Rehabilitation Center. Johnie Mae is survived by daughters, Carol Ann Camp (Joe)of Toad Suck, Conway, Laura Lee Burgess (Michael) of Aubrey, Texas, son, Paul Hamilton Siitonen (Coleen) of Little Rock, Daughters, Nancy Chappell (Dewayne) of Des Arc, and Janet Camp (Paul Allen) of Bigelow, 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren: 3 sisters, JoAnne Kelly of Hartsville, Tennessee, Mary Evelyn Smith of Houston, Texas and Carolyn Eagle of Little Rock, AR, and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and one sister, Betty Kocourek of Hazen. Johnie Mae was born in Biscoe, AR on May 5, 1924 to E.O. and Johnnie Hamilton. She graduated from Des Arc High School in 1942. She was the first DAHS homecoming queen, alldistrict in basketball, voted best dancer, most popular, and editor of the Eagle Yearbook. After graduation, she attended AR State University and then joined the U.S. Navy in 1944. She met Paul Simeon Siitonen during her service and they married in June 1945. They lived in Massachusetts until 1959, at which time they moved to Des Arc with their 5 children to farm. Johnie Mae went to work for Des Arc Schools in 1963 as the Cafeteria Supervisor until retirement in 1986. She was chosen as DAHS Citizen of the Year in 1983, Outstanding Community Citizen in 1972 and received the Amazing Spirit Award from
Arkansas Press Association National Newspaper Association Member 2018
The
Grand Prairie Herald
Baptist Health in 2006. Johnie Mae was a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church in Des Arc where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir & served in various UMW positions. A life-long Democrat, she was a Chair of the Prairie County Democratic Women’s group for many years until failing health limited her life of volunteerism. The family thanks the staff of Southridge Village of Cabot, AR, DARNC, and AR Hospice for the wonderful and loving care they provided to Johnie Mae. Visitation was at 10:00 A M Tuesday at First United Methodist Church in Des Arc with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 A M. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery. Rev. Dr. Naomi Rogers officiating. Pallbearers are Adam Chappell, Seth Chappell, Mike Burgess, John Siitonen, Wayne Pendley, and Troy Pendley.
Joseph Young Hicks, Sr. Joseph Young Hicks, Sr, died Saturday, January 20, 2018 at Beebe Retirement Center. Joe was born April 17, 1944 in Camden, Arkansas to John Connie and Beatrice (Foster) Hicks. Survivors include his wife, Gladene (Petty) Hicks, one son Joe Hicks, Jr, and wife Tammy, one granddaughter, Tabatha White, four great grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Halie, Jakob, and Dakota. He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Denna Faye Hicks, and one grandchild, Cindy Hicks. Visitation is Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at Garth Funeral Home with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 A M. Burial is in Biscoe Cemetery by Garth Funeral Home. Bro. Bobby Griffith and Bro. John Coffman officiating. Pallbearers are Bobby Petty, Cliff Petty, Jonathan (John Boy) Smith, Clayton Manuel, Mark Campbell, and
Keith Patterson. Honorary Pallbearer is James Farmer.
George Wesley Gentry George Wesley Gentry, 74 born July 15, 1941 in Lonoke , Arkansas to Mitchell a n d Evelyn Gentry. He passed a w a y January 13, 2018. He was a construction worker, loved to fish and had a lot of fun rescuing cats. He is survived by his wife, Thrisa; two daughters, Sherri Rollins (Richard) of Carlisle and Sonya Petrus (Jarrod) of Hazen; one son, Joey Grantham of Hattisburg, Mississippi, one step-daughter, Sheri Adams of Jacksonville; Granddaughters, Shaina Swindle of Fort Worth, Texas, Rachael Theidig of Austin, Texas, Amber Pool and Haley Dewitt both of Lonoke ; one grandson, Damon Holmes of Ward; four great-grandchildren; three brothers, Jerome, Ronnie, and Randy Gentry and sisters, Bonnie Gentry and Sharon Rainwater. George was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Browning. Funeral services were 2:00 P.M., Wednesday January 17, at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in De Valls Bluff. Visitation was from 5:00
Christy Jean (Crowly) Scott, 59, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, passed away o n Monday, January 15, 2018 at her home. She was born on January 7, 1959 in Little R o c k , Arkansas and was the daughter of the late Ralph and Ella Rae Crowly. She graduated from Sylvan Hills High School in 1977. She worked at Remington Arms for 10 years, and because of her love for children, she worked as a teacher at a daycare center. She was a loving mother to her son, Charles Joseph Wilson. She was a caring and loving Memaw to her two grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Ella Rae Crowly and her brother, Ted R. Crowly. She is survived by her son Charles Joseph Wilson, sister Patsy Crowly Fraser, brother Jimmy D. Crowly and sister- in- law Susan Crowly; grandchildren Hayden Lane Wilson and Easton Dean Wilson; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, and many
friends. The funeral service was Friday, January 19, 2018 at 1:30 pm in the Westbrook Funeral Home chapel in Hazen, Arkansas. Visitation was from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm prior to the service. Interment was in the Hazen Cemetery in Hazen, Arkansas.
Catherine Lea (Kerr) Major Catherine Lea (Kerr) Major, 68, of Lakeside and DeValls Bluff, Ark., died Jan. 3, 2018. She was born in 1949 to Ida (Alexander) Thomas and Wesley Kerr in her grandmother's home on what is now known as Alexander Road in Prairie County, A r k . Catherine has four children: Robert, Ronnie, Lynda and step-son Rafe. In September 1975, Cathy married Ronald Major and moved their newly combined family to Edenton, N.C. After only nine months in North Carolina, Ron accepted a new promotional position and they moved the family across the country to the beautiful White Mountains of Arizona. They resided at the Alchesay National Fish Hatchery near Whiteriver until they
purchased their current residence in Lakeside in 1978. Cathy was an avid reader, talented at sewing, quilting and upholstery. She was an excellent gardener, canner and cook. After the nest emptied, Cathy worked at Walmart for the first seven years the store was opened until joining Ron in retirement, stating that she didn't think he should have all the fun. She enjoyed working with the TRACKS organization, building many friendships while helping to build the local White Mountain Trail Systems that we have today. She often biked, cross-country skied, hiked and camped with her husband, Ron, and their many friends, foraging for wild mushrooms in the mountains. Cathy is survived by her husband, Ron; children: Robert (Diane) Chidister, Rafael (Robin) Major, Ronald Chidister, Lynda Subject; 13 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; six sisters: Clara (Larry) Pasley, Mary Baker, Grace (Manuel) Dominguez, Pansy (Dale) Shook, Connie (Lenny) Adams, Anita (Jeff) Cohen. Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Ida Thomas and Wesley Kerr; and sisters Carolyn (Wayne) Petrus and Wanda (Jerry) Tolbert. Memorial services will be in Arizona Feb 10th and Arkansas at a future date.
Thank You We would like to Thank you for your love and support at this time most difficult time. Your prayers, cards, food, flowers, calls, visits, memorials and love were all so much appreciated. Thank you for taking your time to show our family just how much Drake was loved by all. May God Bless You All, The Family of Drake Jones
The Grand Prairie Herald is happy to publish a picture and the first 300 words of an obituary for free as a service and as a courtesy to the families of our community. Beginning with the 301st word, the rate will be 10 cents per word to publish.The entire obituary will only be published if the paper is contacted directly either by email or by phone. heraldpublishing@gmail.com or 870-255-4538
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS SOUTHERN DISTRICT CIVIL DIVISION FARMERS AND MERCHANTS BANK , PLAINTIFF
(USPS) 225-680
VS. NO. CV-2016-__46_
The Grand Prairie Herald is an independent publication that has served Prairie County since December, 1901. It is published weekly by
MILDRED SAXON, DEFENDANT NOTICE OF COMMISSIONER'S SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That in pursuance of the authority and direction contained in the decretal order of the Circuit Court of Prairie County, Arkansas, made and entered on the 18th day of December, A.D. 2017, and recorded December 20, 2017, in a certain cause (No. CV-2016-46) then pending therein between the Farmers and Merchants Bank, plaintiff, and Mildred Saxton, defendant; the undersigned, as commissioner of said court, will offer for sale at public venue to the highest bidder, at the South door or Main entrance lobby of the Southern District, Prairie County Courthouse, in which Court is held, in the City of DeValls Bluff, Prairie County, Arkansas, within the hours prescribed by law for judicial sales on Thursday at 10:00 A.M. the 15th day of February, A.D. 2018, the following described real property situated in the Southern District of Prairie County, Arkansas to-wit:
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 -
Lot One (1), in Block Twenty-two (22), in Williams Subdivision to the town of DeValls Bluff, Arkansas.included with said property:
$17.50/year In Arkansas $22.50/year
2002 Fleetwood 56x32 Mobile Home, Serial #:xxxxxxxxxx3504and all products and proceeds thereof.
Out of State $27.50/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 Advertising RickJohnson Circulation/Accounts Trudy Johnson
Christy Jean Crowly Scott
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TERMS OF SALE: On a credit of three (3) months, the purchaser being required to execute a bond as required by law and the order and decree of said court in said cause, with approved security, bearing interest at the rate of 10% per annum from date of sale until paid, and a lien being retained on the property sold to secure the payment of the purchase money. GIVEN under my hand this 9th day of January, 2018. __________________________________________ GAYLON HALE, COMMISSIONER Circuit Clerk P.O. Box 283 DeValls Bluff, AR 72041 F&M/Saxton,Mildred/Notice of Commissioners Sale
(1/17/18 3tc)
Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Kemistri to be in concert at EACC
Biscoe EHC talks about disaster prep Biscoe EHC Learns Tips and Resources for Disaster Preparedness Eight members of the Biscoe Extension Club (EHC) met Monday,January 8, 2017, at the Biscoe First Baptist Church at 10:30 am. Members present were Janice Corpier, Juanita H u t c h i n s o n , LennieHolmes, Rita Farris, Gladys Tucker, June Cox, Bernadette Mosby, and Mitzi Osborne. Members welcomed our visitor, Debby Priest, who decided to become a member. Juanita Hutchinson shared an inspirational reading, ‘New Year.’ President Osborne served cake and coffee along with cookies from Hutchinson for members to enjoy during the meeting. Osborne opened the meeting with the Thought of the Day: ‘Remember when disaster strikes, the time to prepare has passed.’ –Steven Cyro Secretary Corpier called roll with , ‘Do you have a disaster plan?’ (It was discovered that none of us do.) She then read the minutes which were approved as read. Treasurer Hutchinson presented the financial statement which was filed for audit. A short business meeting followed. There was no unfinished business to discuss. New business was an update on the community service project and Love Box recipients were decided. The program, Resources and Tips for Disaster Preparedness, was pre-
sented by the January Program Leader, Mitzi Osborne. Members participated in a survey on this subject. Being prepared for emergencies such as tornadoes, earthquakes, terror attacks, etc., was discussed.. A list of items that should be included in an Emergency Preparedness Kit were handed out. If you are interested in any of this material, it is available at the Prairie County Extension Office – contact at 870-998-2614 or go to the courthouse in DeValls Bluff. For an eye-opener, Janice Corpier showed a copy of her recently deceased aunt’s 1939 Prescott EHC cookbook (sold for $.35) to benefit an orphanage. We looked through the recipes which included how to prepare drip coffee! She also showed a cap she knitted with a hole in the top for a ponytail to fit through. For a fun activity, members played ‘Build a Snowman’ played like the child’s game of ‘Cooties.’ Rita Farris was the winner. Bernadette Mosby won the door prize. Biscoe EHC meets every 2nd Monday at 10:30 am in the Fellowship Hall of Biscoe Baptist Church. We invite you to join us for discussions of educational topics, fellowship, service projects, creative skills, and fun. Th mission of Extension Homemakers Club is to empower and enrich the lives of individuals and families through continuing education leadership development and volunteer community service.
The Hazen Elementary PTO is sponsoring two fundraisers to benefit the Lance Turner family. The first is a “Kiss a Barnyard Animal” contest in which students can bring money to “vote” for their favorite (?) teacher. The second will be a bake sale held on Friday, Jan. 26 and Thursday, Feb. 1 which will take place in the Hornets’ Nest Gymnasium beginning at 4:30 p.m.
ASO presents new Nashville hitmakers Little Rock, ARK The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Philip Mann, Music Director and Conductor, presents the second concert of the 2017-2018 Acxiom Pops Live! season: Music City HitMakers, Saturday, February 10th at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 11th at 3:00 p.m. at the newly-renovated Robinson Center. Nashville songwriters Chris DeStefano, Marcus Hummon, and Rivers Rutherford take the stage with the ASO to perform and share the stories behind some of the biggest hits they have penned for iconic music stars like Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Lady Antebellum, Kelly Clarkson, and many more. DeStefano, Hummon,
and Rutherford have more than 30 number one hits between them, and their music has been arranged to feature the sounds of a symphony orchestra by Charles Judge. Judge is known for arranging and conducting Carrie Underwood's performances with the Hollywood Bowl and Blake Shelton's NBC Not-So-Family Christmas Special. The Pops Live! Series is sponsored by Acxiom. Music City Hit-Makers is sponsored by University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The media sponsor for the Pops Live! Series is The Point 94.1. Tickets are $15, $35, $55, and $65; active duty military and student tickets are $10 and can be purchased online atwww.ArkansasSymph ony.org; at the Robinson Center street-level box office beginning 90 minutes prior to a concert; or by phone at 501-6661761, ext. 100. All Arkansas students grades K-12 are admitted to Sunday’s matinee free of charge with the purchase of an adult ticket using the Entergy Kids’ Ticket, downloadable at http://www.arkansassym phony.org/freekids. Please note: the Entergy Kids' Ticket Voucher
East Arkansas Community College will present the Kemistri band featuring the powerhouse vocals of Nicky Parrish on Friday, February 2, at 7:00 p.m. at the EACC Fine Arts Center. Kemistri featuring the lead vocals of Nicky Parrish, brings a natural excitement that audiences have come to love. Articulating the emotions that individuals feel, Kemistri’s style of music is captivated by a vast audience of R&B, Gospel, Jazz, Neo Soul, Country, Blues, Hop-Hop, Reggae, and Salsa, genres of music that touch the heart and soul of everyone. A native of Little Rock, lead vocal Nicky Parrish is a six-time Amateur Night Apollo winner. She also toured for seven years with the GRAMMY award winning gospel
recording artist Smokie Norful. Parrish was named Arkansas Urban Music R&B Artist of the Year in 2011, won the Arkansas Platinum Hood Award in 2013, and was featured in the HBO documentary, “Little Rock Central: 50 Years Later,” where she sang the national anthem. Tickets for this event are $10 and may be purchased via telephone by calling 870 633-4480, ext. 352 or in person at the EACC Fine Arts Center Ticket Office located at 1700 Newcastle Road in Forrest City just off I-40. EACC Students will be admitted free with Student ID. This concert has been sponsored by EACC’s Office of Student Activities and is part of the events scheduled on campus for African American History Month.
Hazen School Menu
JANUARY 26- FEBRUARY 2 2018 Elementary students do not have the sandwich line option. **Menus are subject to change without notice** MONDAY Pizza Tossed Salad Corn Cookie Fruit /Milk
MONDAY Chicken Fajita Sandwich Bake Potato Pickle Spear Fruit/ Milk
MONDAY Cereal & Toast or Blueberry Muffin Sausage & Biscuit Fruit Juice/Milk
TUESDAY Chicken Strips Mashed Potatoes/Gravy Green Beans Fruit Hot Roll Milk
TUESDAY Hot & Spicy Chicken Potato Wedges Lettuce/Tomato/ Pickle Fruit Milks
TUESDAY Cereal & Graham Cracker or Pancake & Sausage Sausage & Biscuit Fruit/Juice/Milk
WEDNESDAY Cheeseburger French Fries Lettuce/Tomato/ Pickle Fruit/Milk
WEDNESDAY Turkey Ham Sub French Fries Le tuce/Tomato/ Pickle
WEDNESDAY Cereal & Toast or Egg, Sausage & Cheese Biscuit, Sausage & Biscuit Fruit/Milk
THURSDAY Beefy Nacho Pinto Beans Lettuce/Tomatoes Cinnamon Sticks Fruit/Milk
THURSDAY BBQ Chicken Sandwich Pinto Beans Slaw Fruit Milk
THURSDAY Cereal & Graham Cracker or Breakfast Pizza, Sausage & Biscuit Fruit Juice Milk
FRIDAY Chicken Sandwich Potato Wedges Lettuce/Tomato/ Pickle Fruit Birthday Cake Milk
FRIDAY Quesadilla Corn Tossed Salad Fruit Milk
FRIDAY Cereal & Graham Cracker, or Biscuit & Gravy or Sausage & Biscuit FruitJuice/Milk
Fruit/Milk
Sponsored by Herald Publishing Co., Inc.
ORDINANCE NO. 484 AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR AND ADOPTING FOR THE CITY OF HAZEN, ARKANSAS FOR THE TWELVE (12) MONTHS BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2018, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2018, APPROPRIATING MONEY FOR EACH AND EVERY ITEM OF EXPENDITURE THEREIN PROVIDED FOR, DECLARING AN EMERGENCY TO EXIST, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES Whereas, the City Council has made a comprehensive study and review of the proposed budget, and Whereas, it is the opinion of the City Council that the schedules and exhibits of financial information prepared and reviewed anticipated revenues and expenditures for the calendar year appear to be as accurate as possible for budgetary purposes, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HAZEN, ARKANSAS: That Section 1: this ordinance shall be known as the budget ordinance for the City of Hazen, Arkansas for the twelve (12) month period beginning January 1, 2018 and ending December 31, 2018, reflecting estimated revenues and expenditures as hereinafter set forth on the succeeding pages. All revenues herein are estimated and subject to change, and all appropriations are calculated upon available revenues;
ORDINANCE NO. 483 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 11.12.02 OF CHAPTER 11.12 ENTITLED ELECTRICAL CODE OF THE CITY MUNICIPAL CODE BOOK WHEREAS, The City Council of the City of Hazen has found it necessary to amend a section of the municipal code book in order to stay current with the most electrical code adoption. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HAZEN, ARKANSAS THAT: SECTION 1: Section 11.12.02 Adoption should be amended to read as follows: The City Council of Hazen, Arkansas, hereby adopts the most current electrical standard code set forth by the National Electrical Code as the official document for the City of Hazen, Arkansas. SECTION 2: The parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. An emergency is hereby declared to exist, and this ordinance shall be in full force from and after its passage and publication. PASSED AND ADOPTED this 18th day of January 2018.
Section2: The respective amounts of funds for each and every item of expenditure classification herein proposed in the budget for 2018, are hereby approved by the City of Hazen, Arkansas and are hereby authorized and appropriated for the purposes herein set forth for the calendar year ending December 31, 2018; Section 3: Whereas, it is necessary for the efficient operation of municipal government that a budget be planned and adopted, an emergency is hereby declared to exist, and this ordinance being necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and publication. PASSED AND ADOPTED this 18th
day of January 2018. Signed:
__________________________ David Duch, Mayor
Signed: ___________________________ David Duch, Mayor Attest: _______________________________ David Hardke, Recorder/Treasurer
Attest: _____________________________ David Hardke, Recorder/Treasurer (1-24-18 1tc)
Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Consumer Alert The Cost of Refund Anticipation Loans From Attorney General Leslie Rutledge LITTLE ROCK – Although some companies offer refund anticipation loans during tax season, these loans can actually cost consumers money. Arkansans planning to receive a refund this year often are excitedly looking forward to a lump sum return. But when opting to use a refund anticipation loan, consumers rarely plan to give a large portion of their tax returns to interest rates. Refund anticipation loans (RALs) and refund anticipation checks (RACs) are high-interest loans that must be repaid by the actual tax return proceeds, essentially borrowing your own money. If the actual tax refund amount is less than estimated, the buyer is on the hook for the difference. “Waiting on the government to issue a tax return can be frustrating,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “But a refund anticipation loan or check can take a substantial amount of your hardearned money out of your tax return check. I
encourage all Arkansans to practice patience to ensure they receive their entire tax refund.” Free or low-cost options such as the online Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Free File program or the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance may be options. Electronically-filed returns can be deposited in bank accounts in as few as eight days. The IRS can also provide refunds by check or prepaid debit card. Always get a written list of fees before entering into any agreement or requesting tax preparation assistance. Refund Anticipation Checks are similar to Refund Anticipation Loans and can be attractive to some consumers because businesses often waive tax preparation fees, but many Arkansans can obtain free tax preparation services. The IRS provides a Free File program online that is a federal tax preparation and electronic-filing program for approximately 70 percent of taxpayers who earn less than $66,000. Eligible consumers can go
to IRS.gov and choose from multiple private companies that will file federal returns at no charge. Some Arkansans may also be eligible to receive free help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. Meanwhile, seniors can contact AARP to learn more about the tax preparation services they provide. Arkansas’s “Refund Anticipation Loan Act” requires rates to be posted and clearly stated for all consumers to see, and, among other requirements, they must be provided with a written statement explaining the loan or check-issuing process. Those offering Refund Anticipation Loans are prohibited from charging additional fees or requiring consumers to take out such loans in exchange for tax services. For more information about the Arkansas Attorney General’s office, call (800) 482-8982, email consumer@ArkansasAG.g ov or visit ArkansasAG.gov
With several schools across the state closing their doors for severe weather recently, you may have been hearing about something called alternative methods of instruction or AMI. The legislature has passed a few laws in recent years giving schools more options to make up time rather than simply extending the year into the summer. Alternative methods of instruction is the latest option. Act 862 of 2017 allows a public school district and open-enrollment public charter school to develop a plan for alternative methods of instruction to be used on days when the superintendent closes school due to exceptional or emergency circumstances. As stated in the legisla-
tion, the Commissioner of Education may grant up to the equivalent of ten student attendance days for public school districts that have an alternative instruction plan approved by the commissioner. The alternative methods can include virtual learning online or even packets that are sent home ahead of time. Schools can make use of the alternative methods for snow days or even when schools need to close for a contagious illness outbreak or utility outage. The public school district’s alternative instruction plan shall demonstrate how teaching and learning in the public school district will not be negatively impacted by the use of alternative methods of instruction.
In the application, schools must describe how technology and resources will be available to the students if needed. Schools must also detail teacher responsibilities, how attendance will be determined, and how the district will communicate the expectations with parent and students for an AMI day. So far,175 districts in the state have had their plans approved. This is just one more way to ensure our students have the most instruction time possible before taking standardized tests in the spring. We look forward to hearing how the legislation is impacting our students in the months ahead. To learn more about the program visit www.arkansased.gov
State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Jonathan Dismang LITTLE ROCK – The governor presented his balanced budget proposal to legislators, who will act on the plan during the fiscal session that begins on February 12. The bulk of the increased spending next year would be for the Medicaid program, which subsidizes health care for people with disabilities, the elderly who need long term nursing care, and low-income families. The Division of Children and Family Services, which recruits foster families for children who have been abused or neglected, is set to receive an additional $7.3 million. That will allow it to hire 65 additional caseworkers. Under the governor’s proposal, state prisons would get an additional $3.5 million, bringing their estimated total from state general revenue to $353 million. The agency that administers drug courts, parole and probation is due to get an additional $1.7 million, bringing its total to almost $88 million for next year. Although the governor proposes a balanced budget every year, it is the legislature that has final authority to review and approve all state agency spending requests. For example, during budget hearings when the governor presented his plan, one senator expressed a desire to increase funding above the governor’s recommendation so that the state can hire more parole and probation officers. The average caseload is 120 for about 468 officers. The senator said he would introduce an amendment to add 30 new officers. During the fiscal session legislators will adopt budgets for state Fiscal Year 2019, which begins on July 1. Fiscal sessions last for 30 days, but can
be extended to 45 days if a 75 percent majority of each chamber votes to extend. The state Constitution does not allow for an additional extension beyond 45 days. The Arkansas legislature used to meet every two years, but voters approved a constitutional amendment to authorize yearly sessions, with session in even-numberedyears strictly devoted to appropriations. The first fiscal session was in 2010. Although the legislature will only consider budget bills during the fiscal session, there is a mechanism for considering nonbudget matters. However, it requires the approval of a supermajority of twothirds in each chamber to be able to introduce a non-budget bill. Typically during a fiscal session, the legislature will approve about 300 separate appropriations to authorize spending by state agencies and institutions of higher education. The proposed budget for next fiscal year is based on an estimated increase in spending of almost $173 million, which
would bring the total of state general revenue spending to $5.6 billion. Arkansas also collects special revenues, such as motor fuels taxes for highway construction, and we receive federal matching funds for highway programs, education and health care. This fiscal year the total of all sources of government spending in Arkansas will be an estimated $29.6 billion. Medicaid relies heavily on federal matching funds. Arkansas, like other relatively poor states, receives a high percentage of matching funds compared to prosperous states. The federal government has matched our Medicaid funding by paying for 70.87 percent of total costs. However, due to recent improvements in our per capita income, the match rate is dropping slightly, to 70.51 percent. The change means that the state will contribute an additional $48.6 million to the total cost of Medicaid in Arkansas.
WATER CONTAMINATION LAWSUIT
There is a pending lawsuit on behalf of the City of Biscoe and Prairie County residents concerning sewage contamination of the Biscoe and East Prairie County water systems which occurred in September of 2017. If you or someone you know became sick or suffered damages as the result of the water contamination, please contact: John Doyle Nalley, Attorney Lovell, Nalley & Nalley Phone (501) 315-7491 E-Mail: johndoylenalley@hotmail.com
Randy Hall, Attorney Hall & Taylor Law Partners, PLLC Phone (844) 885-2948 E-Mail: randy@littlerocktriallawyers.com
Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Five “healthy” resolutions to give up this year
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(StatePoint) While most New Year’s resolutions are well-intentioned, sometimes they look better on paper than in practice, actually doing more harm than good. Here are five so-called “healthy” resolutions worth giving up in 2018, as well as better solutions. Resolution 1: I’m going to take up permanent residence in the gym. Working out is an important piece of the weight loss puzzle, but moderation is key. Studies suggest that too much exercise can lead to a number of issues like hormonal imbalance, fatigue, insomnia and even depression. Many people also report experiencing a drastic increase in appetite after extreme bouts of physical activity, which can lead to overeating and negate the weight-related benefits. Plus, if you exercise so intensely that you’re injured or sore for days, it will be difficult to sustain this otherwise healthy habit. Resolution 2: I’m saying goodbye to fats completely. Fatty foods have gotten a bad rap. The reality is there are good fats and bad fats. In humans, fat helps support normal growth and development, provides energy, allows for proper cellular function, provides protective cushioning for organs, and helps with absorption of certain vitamins. Bad fats are found in foods like meat, butter, lard, cream and trans fats (found in baked goods, fried foods and margarine) and can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aim to replace these with good fats, which are associated with a decreased risk of chronic disease. Good fats include plant-based oils like olive and canola, avocados, nuts, seeds, and dairy, since these also offer the nutrition your body needs.
Resolution 3: I’m going to skip breakfast to cut calories. According to The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, if you’re skipping breakfast, you’re doing something wrong. Research shows breakfast helps support brain function, energy and mood. And research suggests that people who eat breakfast consume fewer calories throughout the day, weigh less and have fewer risk factors for heart disease. Just a few reasons to load up in the a.m. Resolution 4: I’ll just crash diet to lose the weight. Crash diets don’t work and many people who do them end up just gaining the weight back. “Sustainable weight loss should not involve hunger or deprivation,” says Mandi Knowles, dietitian for South Beach Diet. “Your weight loss efforts should include sensible changes that are easy to follow.” Find a weight loss plan that’s convenient and lets you know with confidence that you are losing weight the healthy way. Plans like South Beach Diet teach portion control through a low-carb, highprotein approach with meals delivered to your door. Resolution 5: I’m going to stop snacking. Snacks can account for more than a quarter of one’s daily calories. But if you munch on nutrient-dense foods (high in vitamins, minerals and fiber and low in calories), you’re more likely to maintain a healthy weight, according to the “National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.” So, snack wisely. For more weight loss tips, visit palm.southbeachdiet.com. In the new year, ditch extreme diets and exercise schemes. You’ll find more success with sustainable health and wellness habits.
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Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Snow covers the Grand Prairie
Veterans’ memorial in Hazen Snow covered roads in DeValls Bluff
A train passes over snow-covered tracks. (picture courtesy of Greg Shelman)
Soldiers in the snow at the Hazen gazebo
Des Arc Library (picture courtesy of Jeffery Crisel)
The White River Bridge at Des Arc (picture courtesy of Jeffery Crisel)
Downtown Hazen looking east from Front Street (picture courtesy of Greg Shelman)
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