January 25, 2023 edition

Carlisle City Council meets new City Clerk

By Debbye Harrison

The Carlisle City Council met on January 17 with new City Clerk Sissy Drye keeping minutes and assisting Mayor Ray Glover during the meeting. Mary Eddleman, a newly elected council member, joined Anne Anderson, Todd Turner, Larry Flynn and Jon Plafcan. Kevin Kegley was absent.

Ronnie Ashmore, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the leak at the City Gymnasium had been fixed, but the final basketball games would be played at Bison Arena. He said that the sign-up for baseball season would begin soon.

The Civic Center has been active, but old issues with water leaks remain. Crews have been hired to fix the water leaks located around the air vents on the roof. Currently, these are the only water leaks that have been located.

Issues with the tiles falling from the ceiling have been narrowed down to a shift in the building itself. When there are high winds there is a lack of bracing in the walls to provide support. This has

allowed the walls to buckle and shove the tiles out. More investigation is needed.

Street paving will begin soon. The plan has been approved, but citizens can still have input about the streets to be paved.

Megan White has been hired by the Carlisle Police. She will attend the Police Academy beginning in April. Her husband and father-inlaw are both law enforcement professionals.

Fire Chief Derryk Burks reported two house fires during the last month. The Fire Department is expecting

an ISO inspection in the near future.

The majority of the meeting was consumed with discussion about the 2023 Budget. The Budget Committee made the recommendations based on the needs of each department.

However, the Mayor encouraged each department head to avoid spending money early in the year unless it is absolutely necessary.

“If the budget is followed exactly as prepared, there is still a chance that we could end the year with a large deficit,” the Mayor said.

Anne Anderson ques-

tioned the 3% across the board raises given to all hourly employees as well as the mayor, office personnel, and The city attorney. She felt that hourly employees certainly deserved the raise, but she did not feel that the mayor, office personnel or city attorney did.

Mary Eddleman reminded Anderson that 3% was an insignificant amount and would do little to compensate anyone for the 8% inflation that is already hitting all households.

City Attorney Mike Stuart volunteered to refuse his raise. After further discussion, the resolution to accept the budget as written passed 4 to 1 with Anderson being the only nay vote.

Anderson later explained that it wasn’t so much the amount of money that would be saved, but the principal of the thing. “The city is in real trouble and every little bit helps,” she said.

The annual salaries for 2023 are:

AdministratorsMayor $31,847, Treasurer $53,560, Curlett $33,742, Renner $27,852, Rush $25,708.

Council Members $2,400, City Attorney $14,217, City Clerk $1,800 Part-time (2 days a week) $1,000, Parks and Rec $47,454. Fire Department Chief $2,868, Assistant $400, Mosquito Barnes $4,944, part time $5,040, Water Department Walters $58,887, Anderson $29,120, Cook $38,272, Kelly $16,380, Reeves $44,252.

A required public meeting will be held on January 31 at 5 p.m. in the Civic Center Board Room to allow the public to voice their opinions before the Council considers re-zoning residential property.

A request has been made to build a Super Dollar General on the Bobby Glover Highway where 5th Street would intersect the highway. Anyone with any interest in this issue needs to attend.

A special council meeting will be held on February 6, 2023, at 6 p.m. in the Civic Center Board Room to discuss the outcome of the public meeting and to decide how to handle the re-zoning issue.

Hazen School District to receive state money for positive high school NWEA testing report

The Hazen School Board met on Tuesday, January 17 to evaluate the superintendent and to approve and to honor the board members with certificates awarded by the Arkansas School Board Association. Present were Board President Vicki Skarda, Board Members Debbie Carlyle, Rusty Rogers, Bradley Taylor, Freddie Rogers, Mason Sickel, and Sandra Penn. Also present were Superintendent Donnie Boothe, High School Principal Amy Marek, and Superintendent’s

Assistant Cindy Ciganek.

Marek announced that students had undergone NWEA testing in January and had met the goals in English and Math. The district will receive $1200 for each of the two goals. She also said that high school events could now be found on Facebook and the district website.

The board approved Boothe’s recommendation to give stipend pay to Stacey Bowman - $1000 for being a Board Certified teacher and $25 / hour for after school

DA Chamber of Commerce meets

By Rita Dobson

On Monday January 9

the Des Arc Chamber of Commerce held a meeting to re-organize. Meetings had not been held since Covid in March 2020.

The meeting was well attended and lots of ideas were discussed. One of the ideas everyone agreed on was decorating the town for Christmas next year. One of those in attendance pledged an amount of money to go toward the Christmas lights on the Court House

under the condition that the Chamber would match the amount. A motion was made and second to match the amount. With that news the excitement in the room exploded. Many more suggestions were made about possible projects for the year.

There will be a follow up meeting to be announced. We hope to select committees for the projects.

The Chamber meetings are open to anyone and you are encouraged to become a member.

AR Rice annual meeting

Catch up with other members of the rice community at the Annual Meeting on Thursday, January 26, at the Grand Prairie Center in Stuttgart. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. There is no cost to attend, but everyone is asked to register so that appropriate plans can be made. You can go to https://www.arkansasrice.org/annualmeeting

to register.

The agenda includes panels discussing the Farm Bill/legislative issues, rice check-off, new innovations and USDA climate-smart grants. Attendees will also hear from USA Rice President/CEO Betsy Ward and an invitation to Governor Sarah HuckabeeSanders has been extended. The meeting will wrap up with lunch.

detention. An ethics resolution was passed to allow district work using local businesses that have some connection to the administration and board members. Freddie Rogers left the room before the vote.

Evaluations of Superintendent Boothe done by the school board members were handed in to Ciganek.

Boothe asked for suggestions concerning building maintenance in the dis-

trict. There was discussion about the condition of the bathrooms in the old gym. It was suggested that the old gym be torn down and allow the pee wee basketball team to use the new gym.

Boothe also told the board that he plans to sell two busses that are not being used by the district.

Sickel brought up a problem with trees growing on the north side of the football field. He said

that the trees needed to be cut down because they had grown through the fence. Penn also mentioned that the road next to the elementary school needs to be patched.

At the end of the meeting, each board member was presented with a certificate for their service.

“You don’t get paid anything, and you put up with a lot,” Boothe said as he handed out the certificates.

Local students named to fall 2022 Dean’s Lists

Harding University, Southern Arkansas University, and Williams Baptist have announced their fall Dean’s List students .Leigh Garth of Des Arc, a Junior studying elementary education, is among more than 1,200 Harding University students included on the dean's list for grades achieved during the fall

2022 semester. To be eligible, a student must be carrying 12 or more hours with a 3.65 or higher grade-point average and no incompletes.

Ella Christine Marek earned a 3.5 GPA or higher in the fall 2022 semester, securing a reputable position on Southern Arkansas University's Dean's List.

Marek is a senior Marketing (Retailing Option) major from Hazen, AR.

Tristan Richards of Griffithville was named to the Dean’s List at Williams Baptist University for the 2022 fall semester. The Dean’s List consists of those with at least a 3.5 GPA.

all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie

Photos

The new Council Member Mary Eddleman with newly-hired City Clerk, Sissy Drye.

Audrey Fran Clemons Davis

Audrey Fran Clemons

Davis of Hazen was born July 16, 1955 and passed away Sunday, January 15, 2023.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, William Ray Davis of Hazen; daughter, Amanda Yarbrough of Tennessee; son, Josh Davis of Oklahoma; granddaughter, Cheyenne Yarbrough of Hazen; two brothers, Sherman (Jeanette) Clemons of North Carolina and Marshall (Mary) Clemons of Stuttgart, Arkansas; four sisters, Georgia Woods of Clarendon, Glenda (Byron) Reiff of Tacoma, Washington, Shirley (David) Hayes of Hazen, and Phyllis Johnson of De Valls Bluff and many nieces, nephews, cousins, sisterin-laws, brother-in-law and friends and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Etta Lee Clemons of Clarendon and her sister, Patsy Clemons.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Carolyn Mae (Sanner)

DeGunion

Carolyn Mae (Sanner) DeGunion was born July 4, 1947, to Delferd and Paulette

Arc.

She was raised by her family and graduated Des Arc High School.

Carolyn married Harvey Joe Sanner in 1962. They resided in the Sand Hill community and began their family. She would soon become so much more than a homemaker, business partner, and the mother of both their sons in the year 1964. She was one of the most caring, selfless, softest, sweetest ladies and could outwork most men on any given day. Carolyn raised her sons Kelly and Matt who both adored their mother, always.

In 1999, Carolyn remarried to Vernie DeGunion. Together they were blessed with three sons: Kelly and Matt Sanner, Daniel DeGunion and one daughter: Carmen (Walter) McCombs, eight grandchildren: Jenna (Chad) Edwards, Talley Sanner, Natalie (Evin) Treadwell, Cameron Sanner, Summer King, Gauge McCombs, Kimber and Zachary DeGunion and six great grandchildren.

Carolyn passed from this earthly home on Wednesday, January 18 after an extended battle with cancer and other health problems. She was preceded in death by her parents, Delferd and Paulette Marsh and sister, Janet Dianne Morrison.

Carolyn will certainly be missed by all her family, community and coworkers.

Brenda Lee Miller

Brenda Lee Miller was born to Estern and Frances Geraldine (Lawhorne) Ruble on March 15, 1949, in Montgomery, Maryland.

As she grew into a young lady, she met the love of her life and married, James A Miller. Together they raised three children: Chris (Amanda) Espinosa of Beebe, Jeanette of CA and Nicole (Chris) Fisher of Des Arc. Brenda was blessed to see her eleven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren born.

On Friday night, January 13, 2023, at her home in Des Arc, the Lord called her to her heavenly home. Brenda

accepted the Lord as her personal savior, through salvation, last summer. Since then, she has been attending the Gospel Mission Church of Des Arc.

Brenda leaves behind her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, three brothers, three sisters and many nieces and nephews. She was proceeded in death by her mother, father, husband and sister, Gigi.

Brenda’s family and friends will truly miss her loving smile and sweet personality.

The family has chosen to not have a memorial service, at this time, but please remember them in your thoughts and prayers.

Eddie Martin

Eddie “Doyen” Martin, 70, of DeValls Bluff went to be with our heavenly father on January 16, 2023 with family by his side.

He was born on May 20, 1952 to Leo and Fannie Martin in McCrory, Arkansas. One of Doyen’s biggest accomplishments in life was being a father to Darren and Dane. His sons knew that they could call him at anytime, and he would drop everything to come help. He was always there for them during life’s challenges and to celebrate the successes. When daughter’s in law Denay and Katie joined the Martin family, he welcomed them in with open arms. He was a 1970 graduate of DeValls Bluff High School. In 2014, Doyen retired from Lennox Industries to devote his time to his family and the DeValls Bluff Fire Department. Doyen served on the fire department all his adult life and served as chief for the last years of his time with them until health issues overcame his love of serving people. He truly had a heart of helping wherever he could.

Doyen is survived by his sons Darren Martin (Katie) and Dane Martin (Denay), 7 grandchildren Ryan Martin, Destiny Martin, Trace Martin, Ethan Sullins, Layne Perritt,

Emerie Martin, and Everett Martin, parents Leo and Fannie Martin, brother Eric Martin, two sisters Glendora Terry and Marlene Martin, and 17 nieces and nephews all of DeValls Bluff. He is preceded in death by his sister Regina.

The Martin family would like to thank everyone for the kind words and prayers that were received while Doyen was ill. A service is planned for a later date.

Jackie TarterMcNeil

Jackie Tarter-McNeil, age 96, of Carlisle, passed away Saturday, January 21, 2023.

Jackie was a member of the First United Methodist church in Carlisle, the Altruistic Club of Carlisle, and retired from Bancorpsouth in Carlisle after several years.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mamie Taylor; her husband, Gordon Tarter, Sr. and Sam McNeil, Jr.; son, Gordon (Gordy) Tarter, Jr.; brothers, Melvin and Eugene Taylor and sisters, Evelyn Shelman, Opal Taylor, and Weecona Bednar.

She is survived by her daughter, Jan (Mike) Pasley; grandsons, Keith (Nena) Pasley and Wil (Amanda) Tarter; two granddaughters, Liz and Heather Tarter; stepchildren, Sara (Jack) McNeil Zibluk, Bill (Myra) McNeil, Roger (Reagan) McNeil, and Mary (William) McNeil Schoeffer; 6 great-grandchildren and 1 greatgreat and her caregivers, Sherry Cotner, Ashley Johnson (Mylee and Rylee), and Kolbie Ward (Keegan).

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 24, 2023 from 5:00 to 7:00 at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at the First United Methodist Church in Carlisle. Burial will be in the Carlisle Cemetery.

AR Single Parent Scholarship now accepting summer school applications

Forrest City, Ark. (Jan. 16, 2023) —

Eligible single parents are invited to apply for Summer 2023 scholarships at aspsf.org/applynow. The deadline to apply is March 15.

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) awards scholarships up to $1,200 to eligible single parents who are attending college or obtaining technical training. A full list of eligibility guidelines is available at aspsf.org/eligibility.

“ASPSF has impacted me in an amazing way. If it were not for ASPSF, I wouldn’t have had the extra resources to care for my children or maintain my daily living,” said recipient Charlene, a Forrest City resident studying social work at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

If awarded, recipients can use the funds for any combination of school and/or household expenses that remove a financial burden and help the student stay in school.

Scholarships are combined with wraparound services — including workshops, mentorships, and tutoring — to create a support system helping single parents along their higher education journey to graduation and professional employment.

If a single parent is not attending summer school, he or she can

apply later for another semester. Here are upcoming ASPSF scholarship application openings and deadlines: •Fall 2023 Semester: Apply between April 15-June 15, 2023

•Spring 2024 Semester: Apply between Aug. 15-Oct. 15, 2023

For more information about Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund — which has awarded more than $30 million in scholarships across the state to single parents since 1990 — contact ASPSF Program Manager Marci Langston at mlangston@aspsf.org or (870) 527-4070.

About Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund: Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund works to create stronger, more educated, and more self-sufficient families. Through scholarships and services, ASPSF opens doors for low-income single parents, helping them pursue education, secure employment, and transform the future for their families. With the help of volunteers and community support, ASPSF creates multigenerational change, transforming lives for both single parents and their children. For information about scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give, visit www.aspsf.org.

Baptist Health Community Outreach invites residents of Stuttgart and surrounding areas to register for a free, three-session diabetes education class in February.

Over the course of the program, participants will learn how to manage their health through nutrition and physical activity as well as techniques to reduce stress and help them cope.

Topics will also include diabetes risk factors, complications and carbohydrate counting.

The classes will be Wednesdays in February – Feb. 8, 15 and 22 –

from noon to 1 p.m. at the Stuttgart Public Library, 2002 S. Buerkle St. in Stuttgart. Space is limited and registration is required, so call (501) 202-1540 to reserve your spot and for additional information. Lunch will be provided.

Whether it’s administering free immunizations, providing health education, offering resources to expectant and new mothers, or partnering with schools, Baptist Health continues to meet the needs that arise in our communities. To learn more about Baptist Health

Community Outreach programs and classes, visit Baptist-Health.com or call 1-888-BAPTIST.

(Smith) Marsh of Des

Ex tension ser v ice o ff ers tips f or t h is y ear ’ s ta x f iling season

By Tracy Courage U of A System Division of Agriculture

LITTLE ROCK — Tax seasons officially starts Jan. 23, when the Internal Revenue Service will begin accepting and processing 2022 tax year returns. For those who haven’t started preparations yet, now is the time to collect documents and understand the changes to tax credits and deductions that may affect their finances.

“For tax year 2022, some tax credits that were expanded in 2021 will return to 2019 levels,” said Laura Hendrix, an accredited financial counselor and associate professor of personal finance with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

“This means that some tax filers could receive a smaller refund than last year.”

Hendrix offers these tips for preparing to file this year

Be aware of changes for credits and deductions

For tax year 2022 some tax credits that were expanded in 2021 will return to 2019 levels.

Changes include amounts for the Child Tax Credit (CTC), Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child and Dependent Care Credit.

Those who received $3,600 per dependent in 2021 for the Child Tax Credit will, if eligible, get $2,000 for the 2022 tax year.

For the Earned Income Tax Credit, eligible tax-

payers with no children who received roughly $1,500 in 2021 will now get $500 in 2022.

The Child and Dependent Care Credit returns to a maximum of $2,100 in 2022 instead of $8,000 in 2021.

Unlike 2020 and 2021, there were no new stimulus payments for 2022 so taxpayers should not expect to get an additional payment in their 2023 tax refund.

During COVID, taxpayers were able to take up to a $600 charitable donation tax deduction on their tax returns.

However, for tax year 2022, taxpayers who don’t itemize and who take the standard deduction, won’t be able to deduct their charitable contributions.

If you bought a new, qualified plug-in electric vehicle in 2022 or before, you may be eligible for a clean vehicle tax credit.

Get your refund fast One of the fastest ways to get your refund is to file electronically and use direct deposit. The IRS discourages people submitting paper forms to avoid potential delays. Tax refunds can be deposited in up to three accounts, and Hendrix recommends people deposit some of their refunds into a savings account to build financial security. Use IRS form 8888 for direct deposit.

Filers should also avoid using advance refund loans, which often have high fees. Several organizations offer free assistance to filers who meet income and age criteria.

Some of these include the following:

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance):

Your income is $60,000 or less, or You are 60 years old or older, or You have a disability or speak limited English

Find VITA Locations https://irs.treasury.gov/f reetaxprep/ AARP Foundation TaxAide: You are age 50 or older, or You have low to moderate income.

Find AARP Tax-Aide locations at https://www.aarp.org/mo ney/taxes/aarp_taxaide/l ocations.html

MyFreeTaxes: Your income is $73,000 or less.

https://myfreetaxes.com

IRS Free File:

If your income is $73,000 or less, you can access guided return preparation assistance.

If your income is more than $73,000, you can access fillable forms to prepare your own return without assistance.

https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free MilTax

Free software and support for military tax filers

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financiallegal/taxes/miltax-military-tax-services

Organize records for tax time

Whether you are doing your own taxes, using a paid tax preparation service, or using one of the free file options, you will need to gather the information that you will need ahead of time.

Hazen Council sworn in, water and sewer upgrades discussed

The Hazen City Council was sworn in at the beginning of its regular January meeting held on Thursday, January 19 by Prairie County Clerk Gaylon Hale. Those sworn in were Mayor David Hardke, Recorder/Treasurer David Hoover, and Council Members Steve Chlapecka, Barbara Rogers, Larry Anthony, Bob Juola, Tim Juola, and Dallas Taylor. Also present were Police Chief Bradley Taylor, Utilities Department Director Chad Swaim, and Mayoral Assistant Tracie Vail. Police Chief Bradley Taylor reported that a large amount of trash is being thrown out in areas around the interstate. Tickets have been handed out and people doing community service have been used to pick up the trash, but the problem is continuous. Taylor also said that there has been an uptick in thefts. “Report it if you see anyone that you don’t know,” he said.

He said that his department confiscated twelve pounds of marijuana on Wednesday night.Promethazine cough syrup has also been confiscated. As yet, no fentanyl has been

found in the area, but the police Department is going to get narcan to put in their cars to help with overdoses. The Fire Department will also receive narcan for its vehicles. Taylor also said that a planned joint tornado exercise will be held in March.

Swaim reported that the UV system for the water plant is on its way and that a technician from the company must be present when it is installed. A sewer machine has been installed for $15,000 less than what it costs new. The machine is expected to last 25 to 30 years. The old machine will either be auctioned off online or dept for culvert cleaning.

Swaim said that during the recent winter blast well number two was run by hand. “It saved us,” he said. There was some freezing and a few lines burst in homes. Two gas leaks were also repaired.

Swaim had a meeting with officials from Love’s about the two new truck washing bays that have been installed. The company plans to recycle up to 24,000 gallons of water a day that will be used. Limits for effluents were agreed to, and a testing port will be installed.

The installation of a grinder pump was also discussed.

The department also plans to put in a culvert on West Front Street and replace the bridge that crosses Hurricane Creek west of the high school.

Hardke said that he plans to bring in an engineer to alleviate the Crowley St. flooding. He also said that the city has been awarded $300,000 in state aid to do over a mile of street repair. The city has pledged to pay any extra costs up to $100,000.

The council passed a resolution to lease the city’s farm land to the Mareks for three years.

The rent for the land was increased by almost $9000. If and when the new irrigation canal passes through the farm, the loss of acreage will be adjusted. The rental on hangars at the airport was also increased by $25 per month, and all eleven are currently rented.

The library report and the fourth quarter budget was handed out to the council members. The library rents out over 1000 books and cds each month. Chief Librarian April Lago was praised for her hard work by the mayor and councilmembers.

Rice f armers aided b y bill

LITTLE ROCK — Rice farmers with questions about funding contained in the omnibus bill signed last month by President Biden can find answers in a fact sheet released Friday by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

NAVIGATING THE OMNIBUS — The Division of Agriculture has released a fact sheet designed to answer rice farmers' questions that may arise in light of the recentlysigned omnibus bill. The Fiscal Year Omnibus Appropriations Bill includes $250 million in funding for a one-time payment to rice producers to help them offset high costs faced by the industry. Drivers of those costs include weather, war and other

factors, said Hunter Biram, extension economist for the Division of Agriculture.

“We knew there would be a lot of questions and we wanted to have ready information for Arkansas rice farmers to make sound decisions for the 2023 growing season,” Biram said.

The fact sheet is available for download at https://www.uaex.uada.e du/publications/pdf/FSA 68.pdf.

Biram authored FSA68 along with Jarrod Hardke, extension rice agronomist for the Division of Agriculture and Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agricultural Law Center.

“Rice producers in particular were impacted heavily by major increases in production

costs in 2022, more so than other crops,” Hardke said. “Hopefully these payments ensure that rice farms are able to stay in operation moving forward and the economic outlook improves.”

Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agricultural Law Center said the ad hoc funding “was a huge legislative lift and a significant help to rice producers in Arkansas and beyond.”

Both Biram and Hardke urged rice growers to exercise caution where the payments are concerned.

“While this assistance will be key to growers remaining profitable, caution should also be exercised regarding expectations about how much each grower will receive and how that impacts their planning and operation for the 2023 season,” Hardke said.

Farmers should be sure to read the FAQs in the fact sheet and urged them to “not make any decisions until you get a check in the mail,” Biram said.

The Hazen City Council members were sworn in by Prairie County Clerk Gaylon before their monthly meeting. Pictured are (l to r) Larry Anthony, Barbara Rogers, Steve Chlapecka, Recorder/Treasurer David Hoover, Mayor David Hardke, Bob Juola, Tim Juola, and Dallas Taylor.

Calvary Baptist Church West North Front Street, Hazen, AR Phone: (870) 255 - 4038

Christian VanHouten, pastor Sunday School: 9:50 AM Worship: 10:45 AM BTC: 6 PM

Evening Worship 6:45 PM Wednesday Bible Study: 7 PM

First Baptist Church 224 N. Hazen Ave. Hazen, AR 72064 Phone: (870) 255 - 4464 Sunday Service Sunday School: 10:00 AM Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Evening Worship: 6:00 PM

What would my life be without a cookie

by Dr. James L. Snyder

This past week was about as crazy as they get. When I think it can't get any crazier, somebody hears me and makes it crazier just for me.

One morning I had to go across town to get some office supplies and other things. I try to ensure that when I go, it's for several things, not just one.

The traffic was somewhat crazy. Everybody was driving as though trying to escape some danger behind them. I don't like it when the traffic gets like this. I'm not sure why people drive the way they drive.

I must say, one of the craziest drivers seemed to be somewhat religious. He stuck his hand out the window and pointed toward heaven. Unfortunately, he got the wrong finger. It's the thought that counts.

Hearing a roaring noise behind me; I looked in my rearview mirror and saw a little red convertible zooming up past me, and behind the steering wheel was an older man looking like my grandfather. He had the biggest smile as he was roared past me. I guess he was living out his teenage years before he died, which could be soon.

Wednesday Service

Adult Bible Study and Prayer 7:00 PM Children's Program 7:00 PM "HYPE" Youth 7:00 PM

Center Point Missionary Baptist Church 2997, Center Point Road, Hazen, AR Bro. Billy Booth Pastor Sunday School: 10 AM Worship: 10:50 AM BTC: 5 PM Worship: 5:50 PM Wednesday - Youth Night6:30 PM

Then there was a motorcycle zinging in and out and crossing the double line several times, and he whizzed by me, laughing like he was having the time of his life.

Carefully driving home to avoid getting hit, I began to think about this. Where do these people get their driver's licenses? Perhaps it's an online service, and they don't have to take any driving test. So I would like to get a hold of the person that gave them a driver's license, and shake my finger in his face.

Then I asked myself, who in the world sold a vehicle to these people? Before I got home, I passed an accident along the way. I guess people don't know that there's a consequence in driving like an idiot. So again, where do idiots get driver's licenses?

The fact that I got home without any accident was a real blessing. I was frustrated with all the nonsense on the highways. I come from Pennsylvania, and the most traffic is horse and buggy. So what would it be like if all vehicles, both gas and electric, were banned in our country and everybody had to drive a horse and

First United Methodist Church 211 North Hazen Avenue, Hazen, AR

Phone (870) 255 - 4657

Pastor Chris Wright Sunday School: 9:45 AM Worship Service: 10:55 AM

Hazen Church of Christ 204 Adams Street, Hazen, AR. Phone (870) 255 - 3633

Sunday - Bible Study: 10 AM Worship Service: 11 AM Sunday Night: 6 PM Wednesday Bible Study: 7 PM

St. Peters Episcopal Church Highway 86, Tollville, AR. Worship Service: 9 AM Sunday School: 10:30AM

Family Christian Fellowship 603 W WashingtonHazen, AR.

Pastor Scott Skarda 501-516-5971 Sunday: 10 AM, Wed, 7 PM

New Bethel MB Church 8525 New Bethel Road P.O. Box 87 Hazen, AR.

Pastor Bro. Freddie McCann Sunday School 10 am Sunday Service 11 am

Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Pastor Dyrek Foshee 7474 Highway 86 North, Hazen, AR

Sunday School: 10 AMService: 11 AM Sunday Night: 5 PM

Prairie Chapel MB Church Center of North Washington & Woodlawn, Hazen, AR.

Rev. Maurice WilliamsPastor Sunday School: 9:30AM Worship: 11AM Wednesday 7 PM Bible Study

Carlisle Pentecostal Church of God Scott & McDonald Sts., Carlisle, AR.

Phone 501-438-1643

Pastor Daniel Strength Sunday School: 10 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11 AM Sunday Evening Service: 6 PM Wednesday Evening Service: 7 PM

Mt Zion MB Church Rt 2 Carlisle, AR

Rev. Cruthfield, Pastor Sun. School 9:45 A.M.

Worship 11 A.M. Wed Prayer & Bible Class 7 P.M.

Fellowship Baptist Church Des Arc, AR

Elder Lee Russel Penn, Pastor

First Pentecostal Church of Prairie County 3201 Hwy. 70 E., Hazen, AR (870) 255-9177

Pastor J N Holmes Sunday 10 A.M. Wednesday 7 P.M.

First Baptist Church 319 Court St., P. O. Box 25, Carlisle, AR

Phone (870) 552 - 7732

David Lee - Pastor Sun School: 9:45 AM

Worship: 11 AM Awana: 5 PMWorship: 7 PM

Holy Temple COGIC Elder McFadden, Pastor St. John's Lutheran Church Fifth and College Streets, Stuttgart, AR Phone (870) 673 - 2858

Rev. Andrew Toopes, Pastor Worship: 8:00 am-10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Class: 9:15 AM Radio - KWAK 10:15 AM Sundays www.stuttgartlutheran.com

buggy?

It ain't ever going to happen, but it was at least worth thinking about, as nervous as I felt at the time.

I finally arrived home, parked my vehicle, and went inside. The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage met me as I walked in and said, "What happened? You look terrible."

Well, I did look in the mirror that morning, so I did look terrible, but that wasn't what she meant.

I told her about all the crazy drivers I had to deal with driving across town.

"Who," I said to her most frantically, "gave these people a driver’s license?"

She looked at me sympathetically and smiled. Then I said, "Who in the world sold them a vehicle thinking they could drive?"

She knew I was frustrated and tense with all of this nonsense on the road.

It wasn't anything new, but sometimes things have a way of building up.

I went into the living room, sat in my easy chair, and decided to watch a little TV to calm my nerves. I'm not sure what I was watch-

First United Methodist Church 215 East Third St., Carlisle, AR Phone (870) 552 - 7789

Rev. Michael Daniel, Pastor Sunday School: 9:45 AM Worship: 10:45 AM

Immanuel Baptist Church Pastor Bill Ricks Highway 13 North Carlisle, AR. Phone (870) 552 - 3100 Sunday School: 9:45 AM Worship:11 AM

Sunday Evening: 6 PM Wednesday Evening: 7 PM

Landmark Baptist Church 517 East Third, Carlisle, AR.

Phone (870) 552 - 3568

Pastor Albert Young Sunday School: 9:45 AM Worship: 10:45 AM BTC 6 PM - Worship 7 PM Wed. Evening: 7:30 PM

St. Rose Catholic Church Highway 70, Carlisle, AR. Phone (870) 552 - 3601

Father Shaun Wesley Sunday Mass 10:30AM English 12:00PM Spanish Tuesday Mass 6:00 PM Wednesday Mass in Spanish 5:30 PM Holy Hour & Confessions 6:05PM Friday (except First Friday) Mass 8:30AM Saturday Mass in Spanish 7:00 PM

United Methodist Church of DeValls Bluff Highway 70 West, DeValls Bluff AR.

Pastor Chris Wright Sunday Morning Worship: 9 AM Friendship Lunch: 3rd Wed. of Month, 11:30 AM

First Baptist Church of DeValls Bluff

Pastor Bobby Powers P. O. Box 358 Highway 70 West, DeValls Bluff, AR.

Phone (870) 998 - 7118

Sunday School: 9:45 AM

Morning Worship: 11 AM Evening Worship: 5 PM Wednesday Evening: 7 PM

Mount Olive MB Church Highway 70, DeValls Bluff, AR.

Rev. Tony Haskins Sunday School: 9:30AM Worship Service: 11 AM

Peppers Lake Church of Christ Hwy 302, SE of DeValls Bluff, AR.

Sunday - Bible Study: 10 AM

Worship: 11 AM Evening Service: 6 PM

Wednesday - Bible Study: 7 PM

Union Chapel FreeWill Baptist Church Metcalf Road, Rt.1, DeValls Bluff, AR

Pastor Darrell Foster Sunday School: 9:30 AM

Worship Service: 11 AM

Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church Highway 86, Slovak, AR.

Fr. Shaun Wesley, School: 9:45 AM Mass: 8:30 AM

Thursday Holy Hours 5:00 pm and Mass at 6:00pm

Biscoe Baptist Church Biscoe, AR.

Pastor David Rogers Sunday School: 10 AM Worship Service: 11 AM & 7 PM Training 6 PMWed. Serv. 7 PM

First Assembly of God Hwy 33 and U.S. 70 Biscoe, Arkansas Sunday Services: 10:30 A.M., 6 P.M.

Wednesdays WNYG, Kids Club, Bible Study 7 P.M.

St. John's Baptist Church Biscoe, AR 870-998-2777 Sunday School 10 A.M.

ing; I just wanted to take some time and unwind from the crazy day I had. Then, The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage brought me a nice hot cup of coffee.

"Here," she said. "Maybe this will calm you down a little."

I smiled and thanked her because nothing calms me down like a nice hot cup of coffee. Whoever invented coffee should get a Nobel Peace Prize.

I took one sip, and I could feel my nerves starting to unravel. How I love a cup of coffee!

Then, The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage did something unexpected. She came in and brought me some cookies. "Here, these cookies may help you calm down a little more."

She handed me not one but two cookies. This was something that had never happened in my life before.

I sat in my chair, sipped some more coffee, and then gently smelled those cookies. That morning my wife was making cookies for somebody, so the kitchen was full of the cookie aroma. Walking in, I was so stressed that I did not smell those cook-

Worship 11 A.M. Rev. William Brown - pastor

Holy Temple Church of God in Christ Elder James Clark, Pastor Sunday School: 9:30 AM Worship Service: 11 AM

Jehovah Community Temple Church 710 Sycamore St, DeValls Bluff, AR Elder Ronnie Mosby Sunday 10:30 AM Monday Bible School 7 PM

Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Alan Minton Hwy. 70 West of DeValls Bluff Sunday School-10:00 a.m. Sunday morning -11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening-5:00 p.m. Wednesday Night-7:00 p.m.

Zion Lutheran Church Hwy 79 PO Box 158 Ulm, AR 72170 Phone: 870-241-3778 email: zionlutheran@hotmail.com Sunday School at 10 am Worship at 11am

ies. The aroma of that cookie seemed to fill me with good vibes, like it was 1969.

I took one bite and began slowly and delicately munching on that cookie. Nothing so wonderful in all the world as a freshly baked cookie. So I leaned back, closed my eyes, and enjoyed that cookie.

In no time, the first cookie was gone. Then I picked up the second cookie, looked at it with admiration, and began nibbling it.

As I was chewing that cookie, I thought to myself, what would life be without cookies?

In a rather relaxed mode, I remembered what the apostle Paul said. “The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain” (2 Timothy 1:16).

It’s amazing how God sends people into our lives to refresh us when we seem to be under some kind of stress.

Dr. James L. Snyder lives in Ocala, FL with the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. Telephone 1-352-2163025, e-mail jamessnyder51@gmail.com, website www.jamessnyderministries.com.

Bible study: Wed at 5:30

The Apostolic Church of Des Arc 712 Calhoun Street Services Sunday at 10:30 and Wednesday at 7:30 Pastor Russell Penn St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Biscoe Pastor Jerry Saxton Sunday School 10:00-11:00 Service 11:00-12:00

Oasis Church of Hazen 113 North Hazen Ave. Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Night Service 7:00 p.m. Pastor Teddy Walker 870-255-5640

Family Worship Center 9th & Main St. Des Arc, AR 72040 Sunday School 10 am Sunday Service 11 am & 6 pm Wednesday Bible Study 7 pm Pastors Mike Edwards and Patrick “Woody” Lantrip

the house of Onesiphor us; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain”

CDL DRIVERS NEEDED

Local hauling. Home every night. Weekly pay. Call T J Pauschert Trucking at 870-552-9400.

To Whom It May Concern: A 2011 Mazda 6 Vin# IYVHZ8CH3B5M26919 was picked up on 9-3-22 at the EB 189 mile marker I-40 at the the request of the Hazen Police Department. This vehicle is in the possession of Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service 1111 Hwy 70 W, Hazen Ar. 72064, (870)255-3305. Towing, storage, & administrative costs are accruing as legal liability of the owner. Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service claims first prior-

To Whom It May Concern: A 2014 Toyota Corolla Vin# 5YFBURHEP040891 was picked up on 12-04-22 at the EB 190 mile marker I-40 at the the request of the Prairie County Sheriff’s Office. This vehicle is in the possession of Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service 1111 Hwy 70 W, Hazen Ar. 72064, (870)255-3305. Towing, storage, & administrative costs are accruing as legal liability of the owner. Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service claims first prior-

ity possessory lien on the said vehicle and its content for all such charges. The vehicle and its contents will be dismantled, destroyed, or sold at public sale to the highest bidder if not claimed within 45 days and constitutes a waiver by the owner and lien holder of all right, title, and interest in the vehicle. To take possession of this vehicle, you must appear during normal business hours, MonFri, 8am-5pm, provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges.

ity possessory lien on the said vehicle and its content for all such charges. The vehicle and its contents will be dismantled, destroyed, or sold at public sale to the highest bidder if not claimed within 45 days and constitutes a waiver by the owner and lien holder of all right, title, and interest in the vehicle. To take possession of this vehicle, you must appear during normal business hours, MonFri, 8am-5pm, provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges.

THE CITY OF DES ARC IS CURRENTLY HIRING FOR WATER PLANT OPERATORS WITH DISTRIBUTION AND TREATMENT LICENSES. THIS IS A FULL-TIME POSITION WITH HOURLY PAY AND BENEFITS. APPLICATIONS MAY BE PICKED UP AT CITY HALL AT 107 S 3RD STREET IN DES ARC, AR. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (870) 256-4316.

Ea g l es win over H ornets F ri da y nig h t

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor

The Des Arc Eagles knocked off Hazen 52-41 on Friday night, January 20 in Des Arc.

Des Arc led 11-8 after

one quarter, but the game was tied 22-22 at halftime.

The Eagles outscored the Hornets 20-7 in the third quarter to take control of the game.

Jonah Winkowski led Des Arc with 18 points.

Hayden Brown and Landon Dobbins had nine points each. Cache Flanagan had eight. Jayden Adkins had six.

Daviyon Bell had two. Cameron Johnson led Hazen with 17 points. Justin Schlenker had 12. Kolton Tosh added eight. Brance Williams had two.

L ad y Ea g l es st a y a top conference st a n d ings

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor

The Des Arc Lady Eagles won two games last week, beating KIPP Delta and Marianna.

The Marianna game was stopped right before halftime because a fight broke out with the Marianna team against each other. The score was 37-11 at the time.

J

Des Arc led 15-8 after one quarter.

Gabi Berry led Des Arc with eight points. Bella Flanagan had seven. Makenzie Williams had six. Harleigh Holloway had five. Cami Eldridge had four. Jyllian Smith had three. Scoring two each were Alaina Fields and Grace Knight.

Des Arc also beat KIPP Delta 66-26.

Des Arc scored 39 points in the first quarter to lead 39-7. The Lady Eagles scored 12 points in the second quarter, four in the third quarter and 12 in the fourth quarter to get the win.

Berry led Des Arc with

17 points — all in the first quarter. Calleigh Skarda had 12. Shyanne Bell had nine. Holloway had six. Jada Jones scored five. Knight had four. Eldridge had three. Scoring two each were Williams, Fields and Kymber Buckner.

Des Arc leads the conference standings at 7-0.

H ornets p la y B a rton a n d P al estine /W h e a t l ey

H ornets b e a t P W for se a son ’ s first win

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor

The Hazen Hornets got a much-needed win last week, beating PalestineWheatley 45-42. The victory was Hazen’s first of the season.

Hazen scored four in the first quarter, 16 in the second quarter, 14 in the third quarter and 11 in the fourth quarter to get the victory.

Three Hornets scored in double figures, led by Kolton Tosh’s 16 points. Justin Schlenker had 12. Brance Williams

scored 10. Josh Dawson added five. Cameron Johnson scored two. Hazen lost to Barton 95-57

The Hornets scored 23 points in the first quarter, 11 in the second quarter, 15 in the third quarter and eight in the fourth quarter.

Schlenker led Hazen with 27 points. He was 9 for 9 from the free throw line in the game.

Tosh added 13. Dawson scored eight. Williams had six. Sam Clayton had two.

Bison get wins over KIPP, McCrory

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor

The Carlisle Bison got two big conference wins last week, beating McCrory 62-42 and KIPP Delta 77-54. With the wins, the Bison are now 7-14 overall and 55 in the 2A-6 conference.

Against McCrory, Carlisle led 20-16 after one quarter and 35-28 at halftime.

David Hayes and Kaidon Clingmon led the Bison with 19 points each. Isaiah Powell had eight. Braxton Cooney scored five. Lawson Petrus had three.

Scoring two each were Joseph Cook, Andrew Whaley, Devin Cooney and Caleb Croucher.

In the win over KIPP, Carlisle trailed 16-13 after one quarter but rallied to lead 33-27 at halftime. The Bison then scored 30 points in the third quarter to take control of the game.

Hayes led the Bison with 25 points. Powell had 22 He scored 12 in the third quarter.

Clingmon had 10. Braxton Cooney scored nine. Cook had seven. Scoring two each were Andrew Fricker, Devin Cooney and T.J. Barnett.

Junior boys game - Hazen vs. Des Arc (Ruth Corley photos.)

Senior boys Eagles/ Hornets game.