This Week's Edition by heraldpublishing

75¢

Hazen students attend techonology fair. (See page 6.)

Volume 121 Number 4 - USPS 225-680

Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Community Calendar of Events

Wednesday January 26 Hazen 10th grade parent’s meeting to plan for auction 5:30 p.m. Thursday January 27 Food Distribution Hazen Methodist Church 10:00 a.m.-noon Creation Station Program at Carlisle Public Library 4:00 p.m. Tuesday February 1 Black History Month Begins Wednesday February 2 Groundhog Day Wednesday February 3 Bingo at Hazen Public Library 11:00 a.m. Tuesday February 8 Quorum Court Meeting Des Arc Annex 6:00 p.m. Thursday February 10 DeValls Bluff City Council meeting City Hall 6:00 p.m.

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.

Hazen City Council members listen to the water tank maintenance presentation given by Water System Consultant Brian Woodring.

Hazen Council enters into tank maintenance agreement The Hazen City Council met to discuss the cleaning and updating of the city's two water tanks at its regular January meeting held on the 20th in the city hall. Brian Woodring, a water system consultant from Utility Service Co, Inc., presented a proposal for cleaning and updating the two city water tanks to Council Members Tim Juola, Larry Anthony, Dallas Taylor, and Steve Chlapecka and Mayor David Hardle and Recorder/Treasurer David Hoover. Woodring showed the council pictures of the present state of the tanks and informed them of the present state regulations pertaining to water tanks. His company says that under the proposed contract the tanks will be upgraded to meet state standards and will be cleaned and maintained as needed. The city formerly had a contract that maintained the tanks from 1997 until 2014, when the contract was canceled..

Woodring said that his company will work with the city to extend the life of the tanks indefinitely and keep them in “like new” conditions. They will be checked each year and will be washed out every other year. The annual fee includes any emergency repair that might be needed alson with interior and exterior renovations. The yearly contract can be canceled by the city at any time, but it cannot be canceled by the company. Maintenance fees can go up or down depending upon the services and the cost of labor and materials. The council passed ordinance 505 which enters into a contract with the company through 2028. The city will pay the company $100,000 plus a maintenance fee of $3820 per month. The upgrades to the tanks include extending the overflow pipes on each tank to within 24 inches from the ground, installing a state required mixing system, installing a

safety climb, and installing covered vents. In 2029 the sitting council can vote to extend the maintenance contract. The present board hopes to cap any increases to the contract to 5% at that time. The council also passed ordinance 506 which hires Johnny Raper as the city’s electrical inspector and sets the new electrical inspection fees. Inspection fees for residential and commercial structures will be based upon their square footage, and all meter loop inspections will be $25. Add-on construction or renovation will have a minimum fee of $60.00. Mayor Hardke told the council that the state legislative auditing committee had found no faults in the Hazen financial accounts for the year ending in December of 2020. He also told them that the city had received $1477.22 from the County and Municipal Aid Distribution for December 2021. Utility Department

Manager Chad Swaim reported that he and other members of his department are in the process of renewing their certifications. He also said that they have been cleaning brush and limbs from roads and doing maintenance work on equipment and the water plant. Hardke reported that the court has a new phone system from Nextel that cost $5510. He also asked for the council members’ input on moving the playground area in the city

park on the east side of town closer to the pavilion. The mayor intends to improve the playground equipment and upgrade the mulch in the area. The estimated cost for the project is $14,385.41, but some of the work will be done by city maintenance workers so the cost will be lower. The city also intends to buy some new playground equipment, including small-child swings. The new mulch will be made of engineered wood fiber.

Des Arc Council approves raises By Lisa Mills In a Zoom meeting held on January 18th, the Des Arc City Council approved a 5% raise for full time city employees and a 10% raise for city police officers. The raises will be retroactive to January 1st. Janice Huffstickler was approved as the new Recorder/Treasurer to

finish out Chrisanna Knupp’s term. A motion was approved to remove Knupp from bank signature card and add Huffstickler after she has been sworn in. Attending the Zoom meeting were Mayor Jim Garth and Council Members Gary Burnett, Anna Beth Fisher, Gail King, Jodie Mayher and Nicole Fisher.

Local school districts in ACHI pink zone for first time LITTLE ROCK ― For the first time, all of Arkansas’s 234 contiguous public school districts have COVID-19 infection rates of 50 or more new known infections per 10,000 district residents over a 14-day period, up from 226 ― the previous record high from last week ― the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement reported Thursday, January 20, citing its analysis of Arkansas Department of Health data current as of Monday, January 17. ACHI has added a new color, pink, to the maps on its COVID-19 dashboard, available at achi.net/covid19, to signify an infection rate of 200 or more new known infections per 10,000 district residents over the past 14 days, or at least 2% of the district’s population. A district with 100 to 199 new known infections per 10,000 residents is shaded purple, and a district with 50 to 99 new known infections

per 10,000 residents is shaded red. The map released Thursday, January 20, includes seven districts in red, 57 in purple, and 170, or 73% of districts, in pink. Last week, ACHI reported that 48 districts were in red, 120 were in purple, and 58 were in pink. “Every school district being in red, purple, or pink on our map means that COVID-19 is spreading uncontrolled in all our communities.” said ACHI President and CEO Dr. Joe Thompson. “In nearly three-fourths of the districts, at least 2% of the local population is infected. In four districts, more than 5% of the population, or one out of every 20 people, is newly infected.” The districts with more than 5% of the local population newly infected are Brookland, Clarendon, Marmaduke, and Stuttgart. The Carlisle, Hazen, and Des Arc school districts are listed as having a rate of

200 or more new known infections per 10K residents. Thompson urged school boards and school leaders to act to protect students and staff. “Every available tool needs to be used to halt this hopefully short-term surge driven by the

37° 25°

highly infectious omicron variant,” he said. “That means requiring masks indoors; it means employing social distancing, good hand hygiene, and optimal ventilation; it means being prepared to make a temporary shift to virtual learning; and it means encourag-

47°

45°

31°

23°

ing vaccination and ensuring everyone eligible gets boosted. With omicron, full vaccination and a booster shot are necessary for maximum protection, but unfortunately, only about a third of Arkansans are both fully vaccinated and boosted.”

47°

29° 2%

57° 33°

Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Harper graduates from University of Iowa Robert Dale Gardisser Robert Dale (Goober) Gardisser of Lonoke, AR passed away on Sunday, January 16th at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock, AR. Goober struggled with cancer, chemo, surgeries, covid, and pneumonia and finally lost the battle. Bob was born April 18, 1953 in Fayetteville, AR. He grew up on a dairy farm with his five siblings in the Weddington community of Northwest Arkansas & graduated from Prairie Grove High School. He joined the Navy & was a Seabee. Upon his return home he began driving a milk tanker picking up milk from local farms and transferring to dairies and cheese plants. This experience then led into a long career as a longhaul truck driver. He was preceded in death by his father, Oliver Leon Gardisser, of Siloam Springs, AR in 1982. He is survived by his Mother, Martha Nell (Curtis) Gardisser of Bentonville, AR, his wife, Erlinda Gardisser & step-daughters Christine & Maylin Divinagracia of their home in Lonoke, AR, one daughter, April Gardisser Phillips & husband Ryan of Tontitown, AR, one son Matthew Gardisser & wife Marisha of Tontitown, AR, one granddaughter & 3 grandsons. He is also survived by his 5 siblings, Ronnie Gardisser & wife Debbie of West Siloam Springs, AR, Dennis Gardisser & wife Beverly of Lonoke, AR, Sandy Daugherty &

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

husband Jimmy of Prairie Grove, AR, Berniece Barnes of Prairie Grove, AR & Brenda Jarman & husband Lynn of Rogers, AR along with 10 nephews, 2 nieces & a host of great & greatgreat nieces & nephews. Goober lived life fully. He never met a stranger and would give them a full life story if they would stand still long enough. His charismatic and cheerful personality made him a friend to everyone he met. A Memorial/celebration of life service will be held at Boyd Funeral Home in Lonoke, AR on January 29th, 2022 at 1:00 P.M.

Elva Lee Griffin We mourn the loss of Elva Lee Griffin, 80 of Cabot. She passed away Thursday, January 20, 2022. She is survived by her three children, Danny Ray Griffin and wife, Cindy of Hazel Green, Alabama, Mindy Beaver and husband, Stan of Cabot, and Richard David Griffin of Saginaw, Texas, and her brother, David Ray Lawman and wife, Ramona of West Helena, Arkansas. She had three grandchildren, Jennifer, Taryn, and Brooke, and 5 greatgrandchildren, Aubrey, Caleb, Ainsley, Mercer, and Brody, and her beloved dog, Piper. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Griffin. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles. Visitation will be at 12:30 on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen with a private graveside service to follow at 2:00 p.m.

Ronald Keith Putt Ronald Keith Putt, 63, of Lonoke passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 16, 2022. after a long battle with congestive heart failure and COPD. Ron was an avid deer hunter and the most loyal friend anyone could have. He was a hard working single dad most of his life and incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Ola Putt of Hazen; his brothers, Dwight “Bo” Putt and David Putt both of Hazen; his sisters, Lyvonne Tucker of Carlisle and Dianne Brewer of Clarendon. Ronald is survived by his daughter, Amy-Putt Reeves (Brance) of Jonesboro; his son, Brian Putt (April) of Jacksonville; his five grandchildren, Dylan Yancey, Luna Putt, Willow Reeves, Sebastian Putt and Abel Reeves; his sisters, Rita Vaughn of Lonoke and Bertha Putt of Carlisle and his brother, Dale Putt of Hazen. Visitation services for Ronald was held on Friday, January 21, 2022 at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen, Arkansas from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M.

Melissa Gayle Kindrex Melissa Gayle Kindrex, 47, a lifetime resident of DesArc, passed away during the early morning hours of Saturday, January 22, 2022 at her home. Melissa Gayle Kindrex began her life's journey on Tuesday, February 11, 1975 in Searcy, Arkansas. She was the first born and only girl born to Walter L. and Suzanne Coles Kindrex. Melissa enjoyed her younger years playing and being teased by her three younger brothers. She received her education from Des Arc High School where she graduated in 1995. As a small child, Melissa’s life was changed forever after she had a severe reaction to a vaccine. Despite the challenges this caused, she grew up to be a determined and sassy young lady who had a zest for life, Jesus, and her family. She loved to sing and always had something to say. You never knew what she would say next. Melissa enjoyed going to church youth rallies, attending church camp at Budd Creek, and participating in the "Special Olympics.” As she grew older, she found pleasure in collecting teddy bears and making jewelry. She enjoyed watching The Golden Girls and old western movies on TV and listening to country music performers such as Garth Brooks and Reba McIntire. She had a passion for shopping and all things purple. Melissa enjoyed eating Dove and Lindor chocolate, broccoli and cheese, and cheesecake. She loved getting up early on Christmas morning and always felt the happiest when giving to others and making them smile. For years Melissa suffered from medical problems. During the last year and a half, she was confined to the bed. During all of that time, she never lost her determination and faith in God. In the early morning hours of Saturday, January 22, 2022, the angels came and carried Melissa home to be with her Lord and Savior. As

time passes on, may hope and love sustain Melissa's family and friends during this time of loss. Survivors include her Parents Walter and Suzanne Kindrex of Des Arc; Brothers Timothy and Tiffany Kindrex of Hazen, Jason and Angela Kindrex of Beebe, Jonathan and Katie of Little Rock; Nieces and Nephews Allison, Kaily, Sara, Hunter, Madison, Faith, Xander, Mackenzie and Cole; three great nephews and one great niece, as well as a host of extended family and friends. The family gathered at the funeral home Monday, January 24, from 1 until 2 PM to greet friends. A service of remembrance was held at 2PM with burial following at Sand Hill. Please check back later for more details.

Glynnisie Sue Leach Johnson Glynnisie Sue Leach Johnson age 51, passed away Friday afternoon, January 20, 2022 at Unity Medical Center at Searcy, Arkansas. The oldest of three children, was born, March 25, 1970, at Little Rock, AR. She graduated from Judon High School at San Antonio, TX and continued her education at the University of Arkansas at Beebe. Glenna, as she was lovingly known to her family and friends, was a happy, outgoing person who always had a smile on her face. She was formerly employed as a housekeeper at the Des Arc Nursing & Rehab. She loved working there and always felt like the residents were like her own children. She is survived by her father, Floyd Leach of Cripple Creek, Co; sister, Elizabeth Dorathy of Cripple Creek, Co; her cousin, Beverly McIntosh, nieces, nephews, other family and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Donald Leach and her husband Robert Johnson. Memorial services will be 2PM Saturday, January 22, 2022 at the Garth Funeral Home Chapel.

Samuel Harper of Hazen was among the nearly 1,800 undergraduate, graduate and professional students conferred their degrees last month at the University of Iowa. Harper was a student in the Graduate College whose program of study was Political

Science. The degree awarded was a Master of Arts. Despite the challenges of navigating their college education through a pandemic, Hawkeyes like Harper persisted. They continued to excel and stretch. To engage and choose and serve.

England native writes new children’s book A Hunting I Will Go..., a new book by Tony Frizzell, has been released by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc. A Hunting I Will Go was ranked #85 as a Children’s Book Bestseller on Barnes & Noble. The Barnes & Noble Best Selling Children’s Book tells the tale of a young boy who is excited thinking about the time when he is going to get to go hunting with his dad in hopes of killing a deer. However, he also understands it is just not about killing the deer; it is about getting to spend quality time with his father in the outdoors and nature. Parents can reflect on the importance of spend-

ing quality time with their children and making memories that will last a lifetime. Tony Frizzell was raised in the small town of England, Arkansas, where he was able to go hunting and fishing with his father. They spent countless hours fishing and hunting and staying at the Hunting Club, where they were able to make lifetime memories together. An avid hunter, he also enjoys boating and fishing. Tony is a born again Christian and understands that each day is a gift from God and the importance of spending time with family. He presently lives in Maumelle, AR.

ARDOT asks drivers to slow down to prevent workzone deaths The Arkansas Highway Commission and the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) are urging a unified effort between citizens and workers to increase work zone safety following two ARDOT employee deaths in work zones in a matter of weeks. “On behalf of the Arkansas Highway Commission, we are deeply saddened and concerned by the alarming rise in work zone crashes, injuries and deaths in Arkansas – especially the two most recent deaths in the past month,” said Robert Moore, Chair of the Commission. “Our hearts go out to the families whose loved ones went to work one day and never made it home.” In Fall 2021, ARDOT began development of a statewide work zone safety campaign. On

February 2, 2022, ARDOT and industry stakeholders, together with Arkansas State Police and Arkansas Highway Police, will roll out this campaign that includes a statewide increased enforcement of reckless and distracted driving laws in work zones. ARDOT is conducting a thorough review of the incidents to make sure crews are following all the proper safety protocols in work zones. The Department is also asking citizens to help by practicing safe driving through work zones. “We are urging Arkansans to do their part: slow down in work zones, stay off the phone, and pay attention,” said ARDOT Director Lorie Tudor. “It’s going to take all of us working together to reverse this concerning trend.”

Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 26, 2022

WRRID receives loan from Arkansas Natural Resources Commission The White River Regional Irrigation District in Prairie County received a $26,084,076 loan from the Arkansas Water, Waste Disposal, and Pollution Abatement Facilities General Obligation Bond Fund to complete segment 1 of the primary canal system that will serve approximately 40,0000 acres. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Commission approved $26,463,899 for four water and waste-

water projects on January 19, 2022. Three other water projects also received funding. The City of Louann in Ouachita County received $70,040 in additional funding from the Water, Sewer, and Solid Waste Fund for construction cost increases associated with an existing water well replacement project. The project currently serves 82 customers. The Town of Jennette in Crittenden County received a $103,000 loan and a $100,000 grant

from the Water, Sewer, and Solid Waste Fund to make improvements to the wastewater system pump station. The project currently serves 46 customers. Tucker Lake Levee and Drainage District in Jefferson County received a $106,783 loan from the Water Development Fund to replace two hydraulic flood gates. The flood gates will protect more than 4,000 acres of property to include commercial, residential, agricultural, and manufacturing businesses.

Exercise impacts body and brain health in America’s seniors by John Grimaldi Every year at this time there is a call for seniors to establish an exercise routine. The holidays are over and so is the copious feasting that goes with the season. It’s time to lose a few pounds. The Association of Mature American Citizens [AMAC] strongly encourages older Americans to stay in shape. But we offer this advice with an abundance of caution. Your health care providers call the shots and we recommend that seniors heed their advice when it comes to what you should or should not do for exercise, says AMAC’s CEO Rebecca Weber. Dr. Andrew E. Budson is chief of cognitive & behavioral neurology at the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, lecturer in neurology at Harvard Medical School, and chair of the Science of Learning Innovation Group at the Harvard Medical School Academy. He says that “Changes in strength, swiftness, and stamina

with age are all associated with decreasing muscle mass. Although there is not much decline in your muscles between ages 20 and 40, after age 40 there can be a decline of 1% to 2% per year in lean body mass and 1.5% to 5% per year in strength.” Dr. Budson notes that aging can also raise coordination issues as we grow older, issues that are associated to the brain and nervous system. He says that reduced strength and coordination, too, is the result of a lack of physical activity. Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialist Brock Armstrong, agrees. He says “Exercise affects the brain in many ways. It increases heart rate, which pumps more oxygen to the brain. It aids the release of hormones which provide an excellent environment for the growth of brain cells. Exercise also promotes brain plasticity by stimulating growth of new connections between cells in many important cortical areas of the brain. Research from UCLA even demonstrat-

ed that exercise increased growth factors in the brain which makes it easier for the brain to grow new neuronal connections.” The National Institutes of Health [NIH] also tells us that as we age cognitive issues may emerge. For example, it can get harder to make quick decisions. “Agerelated diseases accelerate the rate of neuronal dysfunction, neuronal loss, and cognitive decline, with many persons developing cognitive impairments severe enough to impair their everyday functional abilities, the definition of dementia. There is growing evidence that healthy lifestyles may decrease the rate of cognitive decline seen with aging and help delay the onset of cognitive symptoms in the setting of age-associated diseases.” In other words, says AMAC’s Weber, exercise can be good for the brain and body as we age; talk to your doctor about it. He or she can help you design an exercise regimen tailored to your needs.

People

read small ads!

YOU DID!

State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Jonathan Dismang The state Division of Children and Family Services intends to try out a new method of intervention, by assigning cases to a team of workers instead of to an individual. The Division is part of the state Department of Human Services (DHS). The department’s directors appeared during legislative budget hearings to explain their requests for funding increases and their requests for authority to reallocate funds. When the legislature convenes in fiscal session next month it will decide whether to approve the DHS request to add 109 positions in the Division of Children and Family Services. One reason for a “teaming approach” is that it would better ensure the safety of caseworkers. When they visit a home to investigate an allegation of child abuse or neglect, they would no longer have to visit alone. There would always be at least two workers on the visit. The department wants to add $11 million to the Division for added personnel costs. The additional money would not only pay for more staff, but would allow DHS to pay overtime and to pay staff when they’re on call. Those measures help

reduce the high turnover rate among family case workers, who burn out due to high caseloads and the emotional nature of their jobs. Also, the department wants to expand an intensive family services approach that it now has in about half the state. According to the top official at the agency, it has made “a massive difference” in reducing the number of children who end up in the foster care system. With an additional $4 million the department would like to expand the intensive family services to 16 more counties. DHS has a Division of County Operations. It staffs offices around the state where people apply for a wide variety of benefits, such as food stamps, Medicaid and welfare. DHS is seeking about $2 million in additional funding for the Division because it is paying more for utilities, janitorial services, rent and other costs that have gone up due to inflation. Also, the Division wants to expand and make permanent an automated address verification system. It has been a pilot program. DHS anticipates additional one-time costs when the federal medical emergency expires. During the period of

emergency the state has not been able to lower the number of people who are eligible for the health care program, because of federal restrictions. As a result, Medicaid participation has increased during the pandemic. Increases in enrollment are a main driver in the rising costs of Medicaid. For the current fiscal year, Arkansas Medicaid officials estimate the program will spend about $9.39 billion. The state’s share of that amount is $1.8 billion and the rest is provided by the federal government. Next fiscal year, which begins on July 1, Arkansas Medicaid will spend an estimated $9.4 billion. The state’s share will be $2.269 billion, the head of DHS told legislators during budget hearings. After the federal emergency declaration has expired, Arkansas should be able to hold down Medicaid spending because it will re-determine the eligibility of people enrolled. State officials expect that the number of people enrolled will drop by a “significant number,” the DHS official told legislators.

AR Farmers market promotion program now open The Arkansas Department of A g r i c u l t u r e (Department) and Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas are pleased to partner again for the seventh annual Arkansas Farmers Market Promotion Program and the Arkansas Farmers Market Bag Program. These programs, which are administered by the Department and funded by Farm Credit, help promote local farmers

markets. The 2022 program is now open. The Farmers Market Promotion Program may fund the following promotional items for a specific farmers market: signage listing names, seasons, times of operation and location details local advertising including print, radio and television media projects and social media campaigns. The program will provide cost share assistance for 75% up to $400.

In 2021, the Department provided $9,000 in program funding to 23 Arkansas Farmers Markets through the partnership with Farm Credit. Applications will be accepted to April 29, 2022, or until funds are no longer available. Mailed applications must be postmarked on or before April 29, 2022. For more program information Contact karen.reynolds@agriculture.arkansas.gov.

Find news from Hazen, Carlisle, and Des Arc in the Grand Prairie Herald! Call our office at 870-255-4538.

Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Members continued to review agency budget proposals in preparation for the 2022 Fiscal Session. This week, the hearings focused on requests for public safety and for the Department of Human Services. The Governor is requesting a $7.4 million increase in the budget for Arkansas State Police. If approved, this money would be used to help raise the starting salary of state troopers to an amount between $52,000 and $55,000 a year. Currently, the starting salary is $42,357. Arkansas State Police Director Bill Bryant testified this week that out of 525 trooper positions,

61 are currently vacant. Director Bryant told members an increase in starting salary would make the agency more competitive when it comes to new recruits. This week, members also reviewed requests from the Department of Human Services (DHS). The Governor has proposed an $11 million increase for the Division of Children and Family Services, the division of DHS responsible for child abuse prevention, protection, foster care, and adoption programs. The requests for DHS also include $37.6 million to provide services for Arkansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Currently, more than 3,000 Arkansans are on

a waitlist for services. Those services could include medical and hospital, mental health services, early intervention day treatment, adult day treatment, personal care, and occupation, physical, and speech therapy. The latest general revenue report shows net available revenue at 6.1% above this time last year. Members of the Joint Budget Committee review agency requests and current revenue reports before filing appropriation bills. The 2022 Fiscal Session begins at noon on February 14. You can watch all House sessions and committee meetings at www.arkansashouse.org.

Public comment period for Historical Monument Protection Act of 2021 LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, Division of Arkansas Heritage, today announces a public comment period for the proposed rules for the Arkansas State Capitol and Historical Monument Protection Act of 2021. The Arkansas State Capitol and Historical Monument Protection Act prohibits the removal, relocation, alteration or renaming of a memorial that is located on public property. The Act provides that a public entity exercising control of a memorial may petition the Arkansas History Commission in writing for a waiver from the prohibition if the monument will be moved or

relocated for more than 60 days. The Act also requires governmental entities to register historical monuments erected after April 28, 2021, the effective date of the Act with the Arkansas History Commission. These proposed rules establish processes for an application procedure for waivers, a registration process for historical monuments as well as a process to request an advisory opinion to determine whether a structure or object is considered a historical monument. The department is accepting public comment on these proposed rules through Feb. 17, 2022. Interested persons may review these proposed rules and make comments online at

arkansasheritage.com/pu blic-notices. Written comments may be returned to Leslie Fisken, Chief of Legislative Affairs, Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, 1100 North St., Little Rock, AR 72201. A public comment hearing will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at the headquarters of Arkansas Heritage, 1100 North St., Diamond Room, Little Rock, AR 72201. A link to sign up for virtual attendance will be made available through online registration at arkansasheritage.com/pu blic-notices. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Waterfowler Hall of Fame rescheduled for May 19 Stuttgart, Ark. - The Arkansas Waterfowler Hall of Fame has announced this year's induction ceremony will now be held on May 19. The event will still highlight honorees from both the classes of 2020 and 2021. "This is a very significant, special honor for our inductees and we

want to make sure their legacies receive the proper celebration and recognition they deserve," said committee Chairman Jim Ronquest. "In light of recent COVID-19 numbers, moving the event will allow us to ensure all attendees remain safe and healthy." The "southern comfort-

able" induction ceremony at Chenal Country Club will include a predinner reception from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm, live music, a live auction and a local flare spread. Additional information and sponsorship opportunities are available by v i s i t i n g waterfowlerhof.com.

-Public NoticeBiscoe Waterworks is a public water system subject to regulation under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Those regulations require the notification of customers whenever a violation occurs. That is the basis for this notice. The violation occurred when the water system failed to retain a qualified, licensed operator for the period of November 2021. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets national standards for drinking water and has established a requirement that certain public water systems must be operated by a qualified operator. The Arkansas Department of Health defines a qualified operator as a person holding an appropriate valid Water Operator’s License based on the type of water system and population served. The system will remain in violation until the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Arkansas Department of Health’s Water Operator Licensing is met. Failure to meet this requirement does not necessarily mean that the water is unsafe or that alternate sources of water should be used. The water system currently has employees enrolled in the required training courses and will test for the required Water Treatment License in January 2022. Should you have any questions concerning this notice, contact the Biscoe Water Department at 870-998-2226 or the Engineering Section of the Department of Health at 501-661-2623.

Subscribe to

The Grand Prairie Herald

Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 26, 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.

Sell what you don’t need in the

GRAND PRAIRIE HERALD

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

Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical Keith Knupp 501.516.8285 knuppinc@hotmail.com

Free Ads for Free Stuff If you’re giving it away, we’ll give you an ad for

free Call 2554538

To Whom It May Concern: A 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Vin# 3GTU2EC3E538040 was picked up on 1-2-22 at the Hwy 11 North at DesArc Hazen, AR at the request of the Arkansas State Police. 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 priority 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, Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm, provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges.

To Whom It May Concern: A 2014 Chevrolet Malibu Vin# 1G11E5515EF223740 was picked up on 12-2922 at Hwy 70 DeValls Bluff at the request of the CPD. 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 priority possessory

Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Hazen Elementary students attend technology fair Students from Hazen Elementary School participated in a Technology Fair at the Wilbur Mills Cooperative in Beebe on December 3rd. The sessions attended by students included instruction in green screen design, makerspace lab, Sphero coding, and inventor task cards. (Pam Chandler photos.)

Kami Perry and Makaela Guenther

Students left to right: Weston Hare, Kami Perry, Makaela Guenther, and Chloe Smith.

UAPB offers programs to assist small farmers, disadvantaged farmers, and beginning farmers By Will Hehemann UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences A new University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) project provides assistance to socially disadvantaged and limited resource farmers in 35 Arkansas counties, Dr. Henry English, head of the UAPB Small Farm Program, said. Through participation, farmers will learn how to take advantage of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation programs to operate and maintain their farm businesses more efficiently.

In addition to learning about beneficial USDA programs, producers will receive training and technical assistance in: •farm financial planning •crop and livestock production •developing marketing plans for fresh vegetables •developing weed control plans •increasing yields through Extension production practices. “We will also provide counseling for landowners who own heir property and lack the clear titles that allow for

active management of their land,” Dr. English said. This project targets farmers in the following 35 Arkansas counties: Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Chicot, Clark, Cleveland, Columbia, Crittenden, Cross, Dallas, Desha, Drew, Grant, Hempstead, Howard, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Lincoln, Little River, Lonoke, Miller, Mississippi, Monroe, Nevada, Ouachita, Phillips, Pike, Pulaski, Sevier, St. Francis, Union and Woodruff.

The Small Farm Program at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is providing assistance to socially disadvantaged and limited resource farmers on behalf of the Farm Service Agency (FSA), Dr. Henry English, head of the program, said. Program personnel are informing Arkansas farmers about: •FSA loan programs. The agency offers loans to help farmers and ranchers get the financing they need to start, expand or maintain their family farm. •Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance

Program. This program provides financial assistance to producers of noninsurable crops, such as vegetables, when low yields, loss of inventory or prevented planting occur due to natural disasters. •FSA Farm Numbers. Farmers must have a farm number to participate in U.S. Department of Agriculture programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) and Farm Loan Programs. To inform the public about FSA programs, the UAPB Small Farm Program will be hosting a series of virtual meet-

ings. Participants will learn about farm financial/business planning, record keeping and the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act, which was designed to assist families in keeping their land. “These meetings are a great opportunity for farmers to learn how to make their operations more efficient and profitable,” Dr. English said. “Participants will have the opportunity to ask Small Farm Program staff for advice. Our team will also help producers with obtaining USDA Farm Loans and Farm Numbers.”

The Small Farm Program at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is accepting applications for its Beginning Farmers Class, Dr. Henry English, head of the program, said. Intended for individuals who have operated a farm for 10 years or less consecutively, the course will consist of seven monthly workshops, starting on March 28 and ending on September 26. Crop and livestock producers in east, southeast and southwest Arkansas are eligible for the program. Course topics include agriculture business, soils and soil

health, crop and livestock production, pest control and services offered by U.S. Department of Agriculture agencies. The program will also include field demonstrations and farm tours. Participants will be provided information about all services offered by the Small Farm Program, including one-on-one assistance through site visits and consultations to help with business and conservation planning. Dr. English said the course will be held virtually due to social distancing guidelines related to the pandemic. However, if the situation improves,

some sessions may be offered face-to-face. For information on how to participate, farmers should contact Karen Lee, UAPB Extension assistant, at leek@uapb.edu or (870) 575-7225.

Weston Hare

Chloe Smith