75¢
EAST presentation at DA Schools meeting. (See p. 6.)
Volume 120 Number 9 - USPS 225-680
Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie
Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Community Calendar of Events Sunday Cars in line waiting for vaccinations at Medsker’s in Carlisle... Vaccinations of the Moderna vaccine continue at Medsker’s Pharmacy. More than 600 people have received their innoculations since March 7 January. The number of people and the day on which the shots are given depends upon the number and date of delivery of the vacSand Hill cine. It can be as few as 10 people a day or as many as 100. First and second shots are the same but are given 24 to 28 days apart. (Debbye Harrison photo.) Cemetery Meeting 2:00 Hazen Council discusses p.m. Several items results of recent cold weather The Hazen City street repair and the Dolly Parton on agenda Council met on repaving, but that grant Imagination Library. Mask required. Thursday, February 25, was not approved. The The group provides Tuesday March 9 Quorum Court meeting 6:00 p.m. Des Arc Courthouse Annex Thursday March 11 DeValls Bluff City Council Meeting 6:00 p.m. City Hall Friday March 12 Hazen Methodist Men’s Shrimp Supper Drive through only 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Hazen Methodist Church Sunday March 14 Daylight Savings Time Begins 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.
at the Hazen Community Center to amend the 2020 budget and to pass a resolution to apply for an Arkansas Rural Community Grant (ARC) to benefit the Hazen baseball park, as well as discuss the recent damage left in the wake of the recent snow. Council Members Rick Wiggins, Tim Juola, and Barbara Rogers were present, along with Mayor David H a r d k e , Recorder/Treasurer David Hoover, and Mayoral Assistant, Tracie Vail. Assistant Utilities Manager Chad Swaim told the council that two main water lines had broken during the week of snow, but the repairs were done quickly. He said that the water plant is losing water because there are still some minor leaks. The city is having difficulty finding the leaks due to the present wetness of the ground. Swaim’s department had spent a great deal of time clearing away snow from the streets and businesses during the past week. “We did what we could with what we had,” he said. Vail reported that Aristotle is getting ready to start hooking up the internet to homes in the city within the next two weeks. She also said that she had applied for a grant for
request will stay on file until it is funded, according to Vail. Hardke took some time going over the amended 2020 city budget with the council, which was passed with the vote of the mayor, which was needed because a quorum was not present. He also asked the council to pass a resolution that would allow the city to apply for an ARC grant to create a batting facility next to the Hazen baseball park. The city would like to replace the metal on the sides of a building that the city recently acquired and then insulate and rewire it. The city wants to apply for a $30,000 grant, which would be a 50/50 split with the city. “The city will provide up to $20,500 toward the cost. So far, the city has only gotten one estimate for the work and will acquire others. In kind labor will count toward the city’s match. The city plans to pull down the granaries that are presently on the property. The city received a letter from Vicki Skarda requesting that the city continue to support the Margaret Fisher Literacy Challenge campaign, a non-profit agency which provides free books to pre-school children of the county every month until their 5th birthday. The organization partners with
books to 120 children in the Hazen area, a number that has nearly doubled in recent years. The council unanimously agreed to donate $1000 per year for the next five years. At the end of the meeting, Hardke told the council members that the cost of the natural gas that the city uses to provide to residents will be “significantly more” this month. Hazen is one of a few cities in Arkansas that runs its own gas company. The city will get an estimate on the exact amount the city will owe the first week of March. At that time, the mayor will probably call a special meeting to determine what to do about the increased cost. “We don’t make money on gas,” Hardke said. “We put an adder on to cover running the gas company.” The city purchases gas from Symmetry Energy Solutions, LLC. They pass on their increased cost to the city. Due to the recent cold weather, some of the gas wells froze and the distribution was not there, so Symmetry had to purchase gas on the open market to cover customer needs. The city plans to offer payment plans with no penalties to its customers, who will receive letters from the city explaining the short-term increase.
Alta Snider, aged 99, has been the oldest to receive the vaccine so far. Pictured with Mrs. Snider is Pharmacist Connie Medsker. (Debbye Harrison photo.)
DVB City Council makes decision to condemn Carrell building on Main By Lisa Mills The DeValls Bluff City Council met briefly on February 23rd after being delayed due to weather. A motion was approved to resume the condemnation process of the Howard Carrell building on Main Street. Attending the meeting were Mayor Brooks C a s t l e b e r r y , Treasurer/Recorder
Darlene Connor and council members Marie Flanagan, Carol Griffin, Richard Henry and Raymond Watson. The council entered an executive session to discuss personnel issues. After a 20 minute session, it was reported that the issues had been handled. No reports were given and no other business was discussed.
Des Arc City Council purchases emergency generator By Lisa Mills At the February 16th Des Arc City Council meeting, an ordinance was approved to waive the bidding process to purchase an emergency generator for the ambulance bay. During electric outages, the generator will supply power for heat, lights, operating the bay doors and keep the ambulance plugged in so it will always start during cold weather. A Honeywell 16 Auto Standby Generator and installation will be purchased from Knupp Service Company for $6,648.90. Funds will be deducted from the Ambulance fund. Attending the meeting were Mayor Jim Garth, Treasurer/Recorder Chrisanna Knupp and council members Ray McVay, Gary Burnett, Jodie Mayher, Nicole
Fisher, Gail King and Anna Beth Fisher. Mayor Garth reported that Court Clerk Melinda Richards has accepted the position of Office Utility clerk to replace Carolyn DeGunion. This will leave Richards position of Court Clerk open. Garth said that there are many applicants and someone should be hired by next week. Mayor Garth stated that Assistant Police Chief Dennis Mayher has been appointed as active Police Chief effective March 1st when Chief Rick Parson will retire. A recommendation for a permanent Chief will be discussed at the March council meeting. The position will be filled from within the department which will leave a vacancy for a patrolman. A Resolution was
approved to authorize Mayor Garth to submit an application to the State of Arkansas for grant funds under the
C o m m u n i t y Development provisions of the Arkansas Community and Economic Development
Program. If the grant is approved, funds will be used for various community development activities.
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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Doris Downs
Doris Downs, age 89, of DeValls Bluff, Arkansas passed away on Fe b r u a r y 25, 2021. She was born in D e Va l l s B l u f f , Arkansas in 1932. She later moved to Miami, Florida with her husband and raised four children: James Hardee, Catherine Martindill, Evelyn Colby, and Gene Hardee. The family relocated back to Arkansas, and Doris remarried Willie Downs. She worked as a bookkeeper for many years, as well as a writer for her local newspaper. As she got older, Doris got involved with the Silver Haired Legislature, a group dedicated to promote conscientious legislation for Arkansas’ seniors. An avid reader, gardener, and antiquer, Doris enjoyed the simple things. She was a smart-witted, civically engaged, and friendly woman. She is survived by her 4 children, 9 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. Graveside service will be private for family at a later date, due to COVID-19.
Carolyn LiaVonne Collins
Carolyn LiaVonne Collins, 67, of Cabot, passed away Tuesday, February 23, 2021. She was b o r n November 18, 1953 in Hazen to Harvey Junior and N a o m i (White) Raper. Carolyn proudly served her country as a nurse in the United States Air Force for nine plus years. She retired from her career as a nurse to veterans at the Veterans Hospital in Little Rock after thirty years of service. Carolyn loved gardening and looking after her animals. She was a very giving person and often made contributions to organizations such as Shriners and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. She was preceded in death by her father, Harvey Junior Raper. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Justin Collins and Taylor Collins; grandchildren, Aiden Payne, Jamie Clyde Collins, Allison Collins, Ashlynn Collins, Cash Pate and Austyn Rose Pate; sister, Kathi Tackitt and broth-
er, Pete Raper. The family will have a private memorial service. Arrangements by Moore’s Cabot Funeral Home, 501-843-5816. Please sign our online guestbook for the Collins family at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com.
Patricia McCallie
Patricia McCallie, age 68, died on February 24, 2021. Patricia was born on May 28, 1952 to Lloyd and Betty Elder. She was married to T i m McCallie, a farmer, and was a lifelong resident of Carlisle, Arkansas. They had three children. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Tim. Patricia is survived by her children, Steve (Jennette) McCallie, Crystal (Doug) Callihan, and Wendy (Jared) Greenwalt; six grandchildren, Timothy Callihan, Christian McCallie, Ashlee McCallie, Lydia Greenwalt, Amelia Greenwalt, and Kate Greenwalt; two sisters, Carolyn Elder and Linda (Kim) Waddell, and a brother, Bobby Elder;
brother and sister in law’s, Miriam McCallie Byrum (the late Tommy McCallie), Bob and Myra Sue McCallie, and Billy and Carolyn McCallie. She is also survived by an abundance of family and friends. Patricia was a graduate of Carlisle High School and a lifelong resident of Carlisle, Arkansas. She was a farmer’s wife, a mother, and a Nonna. She served as Lonoke County Tax Collector for many years and retired in 2017. Patricia’s life was a blessing and her memry will be a treasure! She will be greatly missed. There was a celebration of life for Patricia at a graveside service at Walter’s Chapel Cemetery on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Arkansas Hospice at ArkansasHospice.org/fou ndation/donate. Arrangements were by Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen.
Dezola Robinson
Dezola Robinson, 82 of Des Arc, p a s s e d away on Sunday morning Fe b r u a r y 21 at
Public Notice The DeValls Bluff 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, and is the basis of this notice. The water system failed to meet the requirements of Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Water Operator Licensing during December 2020.
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
The Rules and Regulations of the Arkansas Department of Health require each public water system to use the services of a qualified operator. A qualified operator is defined 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 Rules and Regulations pertaining to Water Operator Licensing are 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’s operator passed away. Currently, the water
system has an employee who is undertaking the required training to obtain his Water Operator’s license. Should you have any questions concerning this notice, contact the water system at (870) 998-2301 or the Engineering Section of the Department of Health at (501) 6612623.
Public Notice Biscoe 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 December 2020. 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 Operator License in March 2021 and the Water Treatment License in June 2021. 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.
Unity Health White County Medical Center in Searcy. Dezola was born on February 14, 1939 in Des Arc, Arkansas to Robert Humbert Sr. and Addie Brown-Humbert. Dezola received her education from the Biscoe Public Schools in Biscoe. Dezola was a member of Riverside Church of God in Christ in Des Arc for more than 30 years. Dezola was a formerly employed as a Home Health Care Aid for the Ingram family of Des Arc for 2 years before retiring in 2002. She was also formerly employed as a cook for Des Arc Nursing and Rehab Center in Des Arc for more than 5 years. Dezola was united in holy matrimony to Frank Robinson on April 14, 1972. Her parents, two sons: Favian Robinson and Rodney Robinson; two grandchildren: Semoria Robinson and LaShandria Barber; four brothers: Cary Miles, Grover Hunt, Robert Humbert Jr. and Lawrence Humbert; and two sisters: Carrie Polite and Mary Magdalene Robinson all preceded Dezola in death Survivors are: her husband of 49 years Frank Robinson of Des Arc, AR; four sons: Dearl (Makeisha) Robinson and Aaron Robinson both of Cotton Plant, AR; Kevin Humbert of Stuttgart, AR; Myron (Angela) Robinson of Cabot, AR; and Kenneth Earl Robinson of Little Rock, AR; six daughters: Janice
Saxton of Beebe, AR; Carol (Myron) Jones and Reba (Lacy) RobinsonThomas both of Little Rock, AR; Aline (Richard) Woods of Batesville, AR; Veronica McCoy and Tywana (Luther) Anderson both of Des Arc, AR; 38 grandchildren, a host of great grandchildren and great grandchildren; five sisters: Margaret Hill of Rochester, NY; Ola Mae Lincoln and Deloris (Donnell) Holloway both of Des Arc, AR; Betty Ann (Calvin) Foster of Kensett, AR: and Shirley Ann (Wendell) Bradley od Saginaw, MI; a brother in law Joe Bob Robinson of Des Arc, AR; two sisters in law: Eula Jean Humbert of Hazen, AR; and Margaret Humbert of Des Arc, AR; and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 27 at 12 PM at Gospel Mission Church, 210 Mission Lane in Des Arc with Elder Calvin Foster officiating. Interment will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Des Arc by Branscumb Johnson & Gilchrest Funeral Home of Brinkley (870) 734-2772 email: branscumbfuneralhome1928@yahoo.com and Facebook: Branscumb Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Donald McCoy. Tim McWright, Nathaniel Polite, Lavell Pettis Carl Wilson, D-Mato Robinson, Mike Chambers and Douglas Saxton.
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Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Hazen School Board re-hires principals, discusses other faculty The Hazen School Board re-hired the high school and elementary principals along with two teachers for the 2021-22 school year at their regular meeting held on Thursday, February 25. Those present were Board Members Davy Williams, Vicki Skarda, Mason Sickel, Freddie Rogers, and Richie Ingle. The board went into executive session at 6:09 p.m. and returned at 6:31 with no action
taken. The board then re-hired Mark Price as the high school principal and Tiffany Glover as the elementary principal. They also unanimously approved the superintendent’s recommendation to hire Holly Boothe as a secondary English teacher and Rachel Lisko as a secondary science teacher for the 2021-22 school year. The hiring of Haley Meek as the Family and Consumer Science teacher for the 2021-22 school year was
tabled until the March meeting. Superintendent Donnie Boothe gave an update on the Personnel Policy Committee’s work regarding the 2-21-22 school year. The group is checking on start dates for 2021, and it has been working with the Wilbur Mills Educational Cooperative and with districts to determine calendar dates. There were no action items, and the meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.
Hazen Cemetery Donations The Hazen Cemetery donations for this past month are: In Memory of: Betty Long By: Billy & Nona Gail Booth In Memory of: Pauline Owen
By: Billy & Nona Gail Booth Ronnie & Kathy Simmons
In Memory of: Dub Hamric By: Frank & Susan Lisko
In Memory of: Tommy Forrester By: Frank & Susan Lisko
In Memory of: T.L. (Skinny) VanHouten By: Frank & Susan Lisko
ORDINANCE NO. 500 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE NO. 494, THE 2020 BUDGET ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF HAZEN, ARKANSAS BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HAZEN, ARKANSAS: THAT SECTION 1: The following funds are amended as follows and as attached: The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2. The 1. 2.
City of Hazen General Fund Income Total $ 2,134,196.84 Expenses Total $ 2,111,068.31 City of Hazen Sales Tax Fund Income Total $ 637,696.75 Expenses Total $ 551,209.17 City of Hazen Municipal Airport Fund Income Total $ 89,425.31 Expenses Total $ 26,551.65 City of Hazen Fire Protection Fund Income Total $ 38,058.79 Expenses Total $ 8,402.25 City of Hazen Firemen’s Pension Fund #1 Income Total $ 28,532.26 Expenses Total $ 22,757.50 City of Hazen Firemen’s Pension Fund #2 Income Total $ 11,741.93 Expenses Total $ 1,162.30 City of Hazen Criminal Justice Fund Income Total $ 37,570.48 Expenses Total $ 23,710.40 City of Hazen Prisoner Expense Fund Income Total $ 5,760.222. Expenses Total $ 5,739.00 City of Hazen Act 988 Police Car Fund Income Total $ 4,630.74 Expenses Total $ 0 City of Hazen Administration of Justice Fund Income Total $ 141,396.96 Expenses Total $ 141,396.77 City of Hazen Municipal Court Cost Fund Income Total $ 5,169.36 Expenses Total $ 3,635.71 City of Hazen Water and Sewer Fund Income Total $ 730,935.30 Expenses Total $ 586,041.15 City General Contingency Fund Income Total $ 587,480.84 Expenses Total $ 418,805.78 City of Hazen Street Fund Income Total $ 185,680.03 Expenses Total $ 119,186.75 City of Hazen Utility Contingency Fund Income Total $ 135,747.73 Expenses Total $ 99,950.38 City of Hazen Natural Gas Fund Income Total $ 551,805.42 Expenses Total $ 497,155.54 City of Hazen Hotel/Motel Sales Tax Fund Income Total $ 23,177.46 Expenses Total $ 18,957.88 City of Hazen Emergency Sales Tax Fund Income Total $ 623,608.94 Expenses Total $ 219,338.28 City of Hazen Court Automation Fund Income Total $ 43,220.34 Expenses Total $ 13,473.21 City of Hazen Public Safety Fund Income Total $ 438.13 Expenses Total $ 108.51
Emergency Clause: Whereas, it is necessary for the efficient operation of municipal government that the budget be amended to reflect actual numbers, an emergency is hereby declared to exist, and this ordinance being necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety be in full force and effect from and after its passage and publication. PASSED AND ADOPTED this 25th day of February 2021. Signed: ______________________ David Hardke, Mayor Attest: ______________________ David Hoover, Recorder/Treasurer
Donations to the Hazen Cemetery Fund are greatly appreciated and may be mailed to: Hazen Cemetery P.O. Box 92 Hazen, Ar. 72064
Blurred Vision -
By Nathaniel Bradow
“Snowpocalypse 2021”
I hope you were all able to weather Snowpocalypse 2021 with minimal damage to both your sanity and your water pipes. This is yet another opportunity for us Arkansans to be thankful that we do not live in Texas. I think it is safe to say that no matter how bad our situation was here in the Natural State, our troubles paled in comparison to those of our Texan brothers and sisters. I have family who live in Texas, and they have had a truly atrocious time in the past few weeks. If you haven’t picked something to do for Lent, donating to a local charity in the Houston or Austin area would be a good choice. Now that most of us are out of the blizzard (weather speaking at least), I would like to talk a little about the morbid milestone we passed last week in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. For those of you who don’t follow the news, we surpassed 500,000 deaths caused by the pandemic. Half a million of our fellow Americans have moved through the great divide as a result of this deadly disease. I personally can’t fathom that number of dead. I realize that people die all the time and it is a natu-
Bridal shower honoring Sydney Treadwell Bride elect of Blake Beckwith 60 Prairie Grove-Carlisle
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ral progression in the life cycle of both ourselves and the planet we inhabit. But you have to admit there is something sad and disturbing about the premature ending of any life whether it be by accident, ailment, assignment, or assasination. The math is overwhelming. More Americans have died due to this pandemic in the past year than in WWI, WWII, and the Vietnam Conflict combined. Many of those deaths, unfortunately, occured in populations that lived through at least two of those wars. I can’t imagine how a veteran of WWII or Vietnam who succumbed to the Coronavirus must have felt in the final days of his life. How can it be possible that a man or woman who dodged bullets and bombs for the defense of our great nation is taken out by an invisible yet preventable enemy. I don’t care what side of the political divide you fall on; that is a tragic place for our country to be. If you are one of those people who still believe the pandemic is a hoax and the numbers are being inflated to produce fear and restriction of freedom in the general population, I would like you to put this paper down and go stare at yourself in a mirror. Look really closely at your face, the one thing you have looked at more throughout your lifetime than anything else. Now, ask yourself, “Does my nose really exist?” If you come to the conclusion that, yes, your nose is real, ask yourself this followup question: “If CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, or any local affiliate stations reported that my nose was real and located around the center of my face, would I still believe in my nose?” Now, to most of you, I’m sure this seems like a ludicrous series of questions. However, for those of you who might have started to question the existence of your own nose, please go ask a friend to punch you on it just to make sure. Those who are unfortunate enough to have lost a loved one to the pandemic would be happy to volunteer to help you with that I’m sure. I will agree that the mainstream media is slanted to one side or the other, and that comes from a format that engages viewership but is light on actual reporting. I’ll save that subject for another time. The Covid-19 epidemic is real, and it is probably worse than the numbers of deaths and infections indicate. I say that only because of the FACT that makes the virus so insidi-
ous in the first place, the FACT that you can have it, not know it, and still pass it along to others. Asymptomatic infections for the most part go completely unreported. The real outrage about masks and the deniers of the pandemic comes from a deep-seated selfishness and entitlement we feel in this country. This also comes from the capitalistic culture we have as well. Our economy runs on our wants more than our needs. That is what advertising is for the most part. The only things we need are sustenance, shelter, and clothing in order to survive, but we have become accustomed to getting whatever we like whenever we like. So, it is easy to be offended by being asked to do something that is uncomfortable. I hate wearing my mask too, but I respect those around me enough to be uncomfortable for their benefit. I hate wearing my seatbelt as well, but I respect the hit my wallet will take if I am pulled over for not wearing it. And of course, I logically understand that it could save my life should I get into an accident. Though a mask doesn’t provide much protection from you getting the virus, it does provide some, so it could save your life as well -- logically speaking of course. Wearing a mask is a simple way to protect those around you. It is not a conspiracy to take away your self expression or freedoms. It is not a muzzle. Believe me I have been speaking through one all year. If my students can hear me, the kid taking your order at (enter a fast food chain of your choice here) will be able to hear you. We are not out of the woods in regards to this pandemic yet. Vaccines are being given and that helps, but that doesn’t mean it will be quick enough to save the lives of many, many more Americans and others around the globe. Do your part. Wear the mask and wipe that lovely nose of yours. Keep your distance. Let a piece of your selfish nature go when you are in public for a few more months and be a hero to someone you don’t even know. Or perhaps you will save the life of someone you do know. Have a great week, gentle readers. Stay healthy and safe. If you want to comment on this column or any of my other musings, you can reach me at thatbradowguy@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you. Until next week, gentle readers.
Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, March 3, 2021
State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Jonathan Dismang
LITTLE ROCK – The legislature has approved a broad tax relief measure for businesses that were affected by the pandemic. House Bill 1361 exempts income that people and businesses received through numerous disaster relief programs, such as the popular Paycheck Protection Program. More than 43,000 Arkansas businesses received more than $3.3 billion through PPP loans. As of mid-January, about 19 percent of those loans have been forgiven. The income exemption includes benefits from federal Small Business Administration loans and the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. State revenue officials estimated that HB 1361 would save Arkansans $33 million in tax year 2021 and $179 million the following year. Also, the tax relief in HB 1361 is retroactive to tax year 2019. The legislature passed and sent to the governor HB 1112, which tightens procedures that voters must follow when they show their photo ID before they’re allowed to cast a ballot. Current Arkansas law requires voters to pres-
ent their photo ID in order to cast a ballot. If they don’t have one they can still cast a ballot after signing a sworn statement affirming they are registered to vote. HB 1112 would repeal the provision. Any voter who has no photo ID at the polling site may cast a provisional ballot, but in order for it to be counted they must present their ID to the county clerk’s office by noon on the Monday following the election. Both chambers of the legislature have passed the “Stand Your Ground” bill. It is Senate Bill 24, which removes a provision in current law that says people may not use deadly force if they are able to retreat safely. A similar bill was filed in the regular session of 2019, but was bottled up in committee after much heated debate. The Senate has passed and sent to the House SB 170 to prohibit unlawful “doxxing” of a minor. “Doxxing” is a modern offense that means using electronic media to publish personal information about someone, or identifying information, for malicious purposes. Those purposes include intimi-
dation, threatening, abuse or harassment. An example is to publish a minor’s address on social media, while also urging everyone to go to the minor’s house and “get” them. The Senate also approved SB 301, directing state agencies to return fines collected from businesses last year for failure to comply with directives issued during the public health emergency. The bill’s supporters said that executive branch agencies did not gather input from legislators about the effect the health directives would have on businesses. Also, they maintain that fines were levied predominately against small businesses, and large franchises were given more leniency. The Senate Education Committee advanced SB 107 to require high school students to complete a computer science course in order to graduate. It applies to students who begin ninth grade in 2022. The bill also requires school districts to hire at least one teacher certified in computer science for each of their high schools, beginning in 2023-2024.
Do you have an emergency fund? If the past year has taught us anything, it is that we should be prepared for the unexpected. While we all have future savings goals, being able to cover things like a car breakdown, a dental bill, or even a lastminute fun treat should be a top priority. Today, I want to encourage you to save for the unexpected. Here are a tips to start and build an emergency fund: Set Small Goals. If you’re starting at “0”, saving enough money to cover even one month of expenses can seem over-
except in paranoid minds. Even after the lie of voter fraud was disproven, we have some in the state and in the federal legislative branches who are clinging to the Big Lie. They say, “well a lot of people have questions about the integrity of our elections”. DUH!! They have questions because they were lied too so many times that they began to believe the lie? The lie that caused the insurrection resulting in death, injury and mayhem in our nation’s Capital lives on in some quarters and after a long period of the
Arkansas law that caused absentee ballots from registered voters to be thrown in the dumpster was amended to allow shut-ins and others without a coping machine or a driver’s license to be included in their absentee ballot envelope to have their vote counted, now comes a legislator who sees fit to undo the correction and once again place registered voters with an unwarranted burden that will cost them their vote. Cruel or spiteful is the only excuse for such meddling in election laws. I hope that someone with good and common
switch to generic brands, clip coupons, utilize bonuses or extra money. Keep a spending journal and look for ways to cut expenses. Take the Saver’s Pledge. Join thousands of Arkansans who are making a commitment to save, pay down debt, and increase financial security. Make saving for an emergency fund one of your top money moves this year. The last thing you want is to be set back financially by not being prepared to handle things when life happens. Get started today!
Free health and wellness classes at Baptist Health Community Outreach LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – In March, Baptist Health Community Outreach will offer a variety of free health and wellness classes from the convenience of your computer or mobile device. Classes typically last one hour. The following courses can be accessed through Google Meet so that participants can watch the
Letter to the Editor Watching our Arkansas Legislature meet can be a painful exercise. Especially when you see the unknowing and uncaring wading ignorantly into the election laws of our state with unnecessary and suppressive voter efforts. Do any of these people watch the news? Do they not grasp the fact that the Big Trump Lie of Voter Fraud was a lie? It was a conspiracy as verified by 50 stated governors, Secretaries of State, State Election Commissions and the Attorney General of the United States who affirmed that voter fraud did not exist
whelming. Start with a goal of $500; then, $1,000 and work your way up. Eventually, you should aim for an emergency savings fund large enough to cover at least two to six months of living expenses. Save in a Safe Place. Keep your emergency savings in a separate bank or credit union savings account. If it’s in your checking account, you’ll be tempted to spend it. Automate. There’s that word again! Have a portion of your paycheck direct deposited into a savings account. Find Extra Ways to Save. Brown bag lunch,
sense heads this nonsense off. Perhaps some one in the executive branch or someone in the judiciary can rein in legislation that is not needed, not wanted by the people who actually have a working knowledge of elections and how they should be conducted. Blindly following a disproven conspiracy that has rocked the very foundation of our democracy is not a good thing. Sincerely, Harvey Joe Sanner Member of the Prairie County election commission.
presentation and interact with the presenters: Plant-Based Diets and Diabetes on Tuesday, March 2, at 10 a.m. COVID-19 Vaccine Education on Wednesday, March 3, at 10:30 a.m. Walking with Community Outreach on Wednesday, March 3, at 5:30 p.m. The DASH Diet on Thursday, March 4, at noon Postpartum 101 on Thursday, March 4, at 4 p.m. Breastfeeding: Latch and Holds on Tuesday, March 9, at 10 a.m. Diabetes Basics on Tuesday, March 9, at noon Walking with Community Outreach on Wednesday, March 10, at 5:30 p.m. Help to Control Your Diabetes with Exercise & Stress Relief on Thursday, March 11, at noon
Healthy Homemade Salad Dressings on Thursday, March 11, at noon Walking with Community Outreach on Wednesday, March 17, at 5:30 p.m. Safe Sleep on Thursday, March 18, at 10 a.m. Cooking with Community Outreach on Thursday, March 18, at 5:30 p.m. Gentle Chair Yoga on Tuesday, March 23, at 5:15 p.m. Walking with Community Outreach on Wednesday, March 24, at 5:30 p.m. Diabetes Support Group on Thursday, March 25, at 5:30 p.m. Foods to Reduce Inflammation on Tuesday, March 30, at 10:30 a.m. Walking with Community Outreach on Wednesday, March 31, at 5:30 p.m.
The Prairie County Adult Literacy Council is CLOSING its office! Come join us on
Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday-
March 6th, 8th, and 9th at the literacy building 105 South Hazen St. in Hazen. We will be giving away a wide variety of hardbound books and selling off fixtures including: Two computers, one refrigerator, one microwave, shelving units, tables, and chairs. (All sales will be final.)
Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Tim VanHouten Kitchen and Bath
INVITATION TO BID 870-255-5126
Cultured marble, flooring, custom showers, and countertops
Free Estimates 20 Years Experience
Des Arc Housing Authority is accepting sealed bids for Yard Maintenance until March 5, 2021. Specifications are on file at Des Arc Housing Authority Office, 505 S
2nd St., Des Arc AR 72040. Bids will be opened at 5:00 PM, March 10, 2021. The Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any and all bids. (3-3-21 2tc)
Chambers Nursing & Rehab Center Carlisle, AR
Dietary Department PositionContact: Available Heather Mealler Phone # 870-552-7150 Email: cnhc@chambers.com Competitive Pay & Insurance available
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
Come see Charlie Gerren at
Gwatney GMC Buick
Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical Keith Knupp 501.516.8285 knuppinc@hotmail.com
in Sherwood by Sam’s. Contact 501-681-9121 or the office at 501-945-4444. We sell New and Used vehicles.
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 2008 Jeep L i b e r t y V i n # 1J8GN28KXW246735 was picked up on 12-5 2020 at the at the mile marker 191 WB I-40 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 2003 Cadillac CTS VIN# 1G6DM577X40104283 was picked up on 1-20 2020 at 207 EB I-40 at 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 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, MonFri, 8am-5pm, provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges.
To Whom It May Concern: A 2003 Chevy 3 5 0 0 V i n # 1GCJC33153F183124 was picked up on 11-242020 from McCrory AR. at the request of Brandon Walker. 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.
Billy’s Body Shop & Wrecker Service. P. O. Box 696, Hazen Ark 72064. To whom it may concern: 2019 GMC Denali V I N # 1GT12SEY2KF108341 located at 1203 Hwy 70 East, Hazen Arkansas 72064. Vehicle stored at P.O. Box 696 Hazen Ar. Phone 870-255-4922 and is accruing storage as a legal liability of the
owner. The wrecker company claims fist priority possession lien on the vehicle and it’s contents for all charges. Unless vehicle is claimed within 45 days the owner and/or lien holder waives all rights, title, and interest in the vehicle and its contents and consents to the sale of the vehicle. Vehicle will then be sold for towing and storage fees.
Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, March 3, 2021
DAHS to join Farm to School program By Hallie Fleck DAHS Ag instructor Des Arc High School is joining the nationwide Farm to School initiative by starting our first school garden! This gar-
den will be part of our junior grade community service learning class for the next five years, and we are scheduled to begin executing our plan on March 1, 2021. Our goal is to have six 4
x 8 raised beds to start out with and add on as the project becomes more self-sustainable and feasible. We are reaching out to any Master Gardeners who are willing to give advice, donations, field trips, or to be a guest speaker. DAHS wants this project to be as successful as possible, and we are asking for any help from anyone who would may be able to give to make this project successful. We have priced the construction of our beds at about $500, but will also need soil to fill them, hand tools for students, and seeds to get the project off the ground. If you are willing to help in any way, please call the school or respond via email to me at fleckh@desarcschools.org.
EAST presentation... Callie Moore from Wynne Middle School gave a presentation on the Education Accelerated by Service and Technology (EAST) program at the end of the Des Arc School Board February meeting.. The EAST program emphasizes critical thinking and creative problem-solving has been expanding across Northwest Arkansas and the rest of the state. EAST programs allow students to do projects that benefit their community. (Lisa Mills photo.)
Molly Frakes is given shower at Calvary Baptist By Chris Weems Miss Molly Frakes of Little Rock, bride-elect of Mitchell McCarty, was honored with a bridal shower Sunday afternoon, February 21, at Calvary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Molly, assisted by Mitchell and her sister, Maggie Frakes, opened and displayed her gifts. Hostesses assisted her in displaying the gifts on a row of round tables covered with floor-length white tablecloths. After the gifts were displayed, guests were served cake and punch and an array of finger foods from crystal and silver appointments. The centerpiece was a pink multi-colored bouquet of alstromoneria and greenery. A row of pictures of Molly and Mitchel was displayed behind the serving table. Special guests were the bride-elect's mother, Susan Frakes, of Portageville, MO; and Mitchell's mother, Joie McCarty, Hazen. Other special guests were, Molly's grandmother, Carolyn Hayes, and sister, Maggie, of Portageville, MO; and Mitchell's grandmother, Janice Wooten, Cabot; his sister, Meghan McCarty, Little Rock, his greataunt, Jan Tapley, Greenbrier, and, aunt, LesLea Stewart, of Ward, AR. Hostesses were Nanette Belford, Sara Perry, Stephanie Van Houten, Cheryl Jenkins, Donna Watson, Carla Nichols, Connie Swaim, Trilby Shelman, Monica Lisko, Chris Weems, Gail Cox, Sandy Felty, Carolyn Van Houten, Amy Van Houten, Sherry Bullock, Susan Boothe, Carly Bokker, Wendi Stock, Freida Isbell, Hazel Swilley, Sharron Stallings, Christi Rounsavall, Wendy Perry, Robin McMullen, Megan Anderson, Holly Boothe, Brittany Owens, Dee Black, Jenny Simmons, Vickie Holmes, Angie Cagle, Cindy Strohl, Taylor Ferguson, Emily Perry White and Gloria Strohl.