This Week's Issue

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Coping with COVID. (See p. 4.)

Volume 119 Number 14 - USPS 225-680

Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Carlisle Council holds Community special meeting to talk Events Calendar curfews and city services Prairie County District Court Hazen Department Court proceedings are postponed until May 1, 2020.

The Hazen and Des Arc School Districts will not be delivering any Grab and Go meals for the rest of the 2020 school year.

Tuesday April 14 Quorum Court has been cancelled for this week.

Thursday April 16 Hazen City Council will meet at 6:00 p.m. in the Hazen Community Center.

Thursday April 23 The regular monthly food distribution will be held at the Hazen First United Methodist Church by drive-through only from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

All schools in Arkansas remain closed for the remainder of this school year.

The governor has asked that Arkansans practice physical distancing and stay home if feeling sick.

When you are out and about, wear a mask and gloves to keep yourself and others safe.

Community events brought to you by Hazen Chamber of Commerce and the

Mayor Ray Glover called a special meeting of the City Council on April 6 to discuss the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

All Council Members attended and were seated in the large Community Center meeting room within safe social distancing.

Discussion was held concerning the current curfew for all school age children from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for all ages from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Currently there is no fine for curfew violators and very few have been in violation of the ordinance. However, the possibility of adding fines at a later date if violations get out of hand was discussed.

Mayor Glover reported that the City has a potential loss of 60% in revenue income due to the lack of sales tax being collected.

For example, Nick’s BBQ has seen a sharp decrease in business and Advada’s Diner has closed for two weeks. Both of these are huge income revenue for the city. The Mayor asks that all citizens support local businesses during this crisis.

In order to conserve funds, all departments will consolidate their allocations. All expenses in every category will be closely monitored and only those expenses that are absolutely necessary will be approved.

At the present time, the funds are substantial; however, shortcomings will possibly be seen in May. Oversight of these department expenditures is the responsibility of the department heads and they will report to the Mayor who will in turn report to the Council.

The following measures will be in place: No spending without approval from the Mayor.

No overtime allowed for any department except the Police.

City vehicles will only be used for business unless otherwise approved by the Mayor.

Utility usage will be monitored on a consistent basis.

Fire Department meetings are currently cancelled.

Limb/Leaf pickup will be cut down. This will help alleviate extra expenses.

City mowing will be reduced.

To help accommodate the needs of the City, the school will continue to pay the SRO for the remainder of the school year date as determined on the original calendar.

The annual trash pickup will be delayed until further notice due to the safety concerns for all involved.

(Reported by Ronnie Ashmore, acting secretary.)

Hazen Council votes for curfew for city residents The City of Hazen has passed an ordinance that will enforce a curfew on its citizens beginning immediately at a special meeting held on Friday, April 10. Ordinance 496 sets a curfew from 9:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. on all of those in Hazen with the exception of those traveling to and from work, businesses, government agencies, and any location to receive medical care, food, or any other essential goods and services. Other exclusions include persons traveling as the result of, or in response to, an emergency; persons walking their pets; and persons exercising outdoors as long as they remain at least 6 feet from other persons.

The ordinance was passed after a person with a case of coronavirus COVID-19 was discovered in Hazen. Mayor David Hardke contacted the Arkansas Municipal League about such an ordinance, and a generic copy of the ordinance that was passed was blessed

by the Arkansas Governor’s Office. (The full copy of this ordinance is published in this issue of the Grand Prairie Herald.)

Although there was some question pertaining to the “exercising outdoors” section, the council agreed to use the guidelines set forth by the Governor’s office. “This gives us a little authority,” Police Chief Bradley said. “Most everyone is already obeying the (Governor’s) recommendations (for social distancing.)”

After three readings of the ordinance, Councilmembers Tim Juola, Larry Anthony, Barbara Rogers, Dallas Taylor, and Rick Wiggins voted unanimously to pass it. The ordinance will stay in effect for 30 days, at which time the council will have to vote to reinstate it if reinstatement is deemed necessary.

The Hazen Council’s next meeting will be held on Thursday, April 16, at 6:00 p.m. in the Hazen

Baptist Health Clinics in Stuttgart and Hazen now offering virtual care visits STUTTGART, Ark. – In order to best protect our clinic patients from COVID-19, Baptist Health Stuttgart Medical Clinic and associated rural health clinics are now offering virtual care visits with their primary care provider.

Virtual care allows providers to speak with patients on the phone or through video chat via MyChart, the Baptist Health Virtual Care app, FaceTime, Skype or other programs to discuss medical needs without coming into the clinic.

Please call the clinic to schedule a virtual appointment for basic acute care needs, medica-

tion refills and more. The clinic can help with any questions you may have about the virtual visit process.

Baptist Health Stuttgart Medical Clinic – (870) 673-7211 Baptist Health Family Clinic-Brinkley – (870) 734-4405 Baptist Health Family Clinic-Clarendon – (870) 747-3349 Baptist Health Family Clinic-DeWitt – (870) 946-0300 Baptist Health Family Clinic-England – (501) 842-3819 Baptist Health Family Clinic-Hazen – (870) 2553954 Baptist Health clinics

continue to offer face-toface services for sick patients. In those cases, patients will be prescreened for COVID-19 signs, symptoms and exposure. Patients who do not pass the screening will be instructed to go on home isolation or quarantine. Should they be showing life-threatening symptoms, they will be referred to the nearest emergency department.

For more information about the services that Baptist Health provides to Arkansas County and surrounding areas, visit baptist-health.com or call Baptist Health HealthLine at 1-888BAPTIST.

Special enrollment periods for new Marketplace Health Insurance plans LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Insurance Commissioner Alan McClain released the following statement on Tuesday, April 7, reminding Arkansans who may have recently lost jobbased health insurance that they are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in a Health Marketplace qualifying health plan (QHP): “The loss of job-based insurance is considered a ‘qualifying life event’ under the Affordable Care Act and triggers a special enrollment period for a Marketplace plan. The Arkansas Insurance Department has a tollfree number available for Arkansans eligible for special enrollment where licensed Navigators can provide assistance.”

The Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace

(AHIM) toll-free number is 844-355-3262.

Act 107 of 2019 disbanded AHIM as a private entity and placed it under the Arkansas Insurance Department. Arkansans can learn more about QHPs offered on the Marketplace by visiting http://myarinsurance.com.

Qualifying Life Events that can qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period 1. Loss of qualifying health insurance in last 60 days OR expects to lose in next 60 days, including: *Losing job-based cover age; *Losing individual health coverage for a plan or policy you bought yourself; *Losing eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP; *Losing eligibility for Medicare; or

*Losing coverage through a family member.

2. Changes in household if you or anyone in your household in the past 60 days got married; had a baby, adopted a child, or placed a child for foster care; or got divorced or legally separated and lost health insurance.

3. Changes in residence if you had qualifying coverage in 60 days before: 4. Moving to a new home in a new ZIP code or county; 5. Moving to the U.S. from a foreign country or United States territory; 6. If you're a student, moving to or from the place you attend school; 7. If you're a seasonal worker, moving to or from the place you both live and work; or 8. Moving to or from a shelter or other transitional housing.

Hazen utility offices locked Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the City of Hazen’s doors will be locked at the utility department.

Payments may be mailed in, left in the night deposit box or phoned in if paying with

a debit/credit card. We are accepting checks, money orders, and credit cards. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, but the safety of our employees and your safety is our number one priority.

The Grand Prairie Herald only has papers on sale in Des Arc and in Carlisle at the following places due to COVID-19:

Please call F&M Bank (255-3042) or The Grand Prairie Herald (255-4538) to list events.

Baptist Health Clinic in Hazen

Carlisle City Market Des Arc City Market

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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Ernest Dale Ingle Ernest Dale Ingle, 76, of Carlisle, Arkansas left this earth for his heavenly home on April 8, 2020.

He ws born June 30, 1943 to E r n e s t Franklin Ingle and Willie Maudie Taylor Ingle.

Ernest Dale joined the Navy in 1964. He defended our nation in the Vietnam War and Cuban Missle Crisis on the USS Iwo Jima and was involved in Atomic Bomb testing on Johnson Island and received an Honorable discharge in 1967. Ernest Dale went to work for the Arkansas Game and Fish commission in 1977. He worked for AGFC for 31 years in which time he received District Wildlife Officer of the Year twice before retiring July 31, 2006.

He enjoyed turkey hunting and crappie fishing but what brought him the greatest joy was talking to people about his Savior Jesus and studying the Bible. He had a love for prophesy and would spend countless hours reading books and watching shows related to prophesy.

Ernest Dale was a proud member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Ernest Dale was preceded in death by his parents along with a brother, George Franklin Ingle

and four sisters, Hazel Newton, Ruby Pearl Kelly, Carolyn Jackson and Joyce Sok, and one granddaughter, Katie Beall. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ray Ingle; his children, Kiley (Mandy) Ingle of Scott and Erika (Paul) Lott of Des Arc; his grandchildren, Cody Hall, Courtney Ausbrooks, Lexi Ingle, Gunnar Lott and Grayson Lott.

Ernest Dale had three greatgrandchildren, Kroy (Bubba) Hall, Kaydin Randall, and Jaxson Randall. He is also survived by one brother, Bobby Ingle and two sisters, Faye Spicer and Dorothy Mertsoc.

Graveside services will be held for immediate family only, due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, on Friday, April 10, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. with interment at the Center Point Cemetery with Pastor Freddie McCann officiating.

Arrangements were by Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen.

Mary Jane Love Grommett Mary Jane Love Grommett, age 69, of Little Rock, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2020.

Mary Jane was born August 3, 1950 to Robert and Cordee Love. She graduated from Carlisle High School in 1968 and attended Ouachita Baptist University. She was the owner of Vada’s

Reweaving Shop and continued her work in reweaving up until her passing. She was married to Ernest Dalton Grommett Jr., for 26 years until his death in 2003. Together Mary Jane and Dalton had one daughter, Arielle.

Mary Jane’s creativity did not end with her reweaving. She was talented at all types of crafting. Whether she was helping her daughter create an elaborate school project, or working on jewelry or multimedia pieces later in life, she was always pouring her heart out to create something beautiful and expressive. She was also passionate about gardening, another area in which she excelled. Mary Jane was truly an eclectic and unique person who will be missed by many.

Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Cordee; husband, Dalton.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Arielle and Eric Pettus; her beloved shih tzu, Camille.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to all of those who cared for Mary Jane during her last days.

Due to current restrictions regarding gatherings, a memorial will not be held. For those who wish to do so, memorial contributions may be sent to The One, Inc., (aka “the van”).

Cremation Services of Arkansas (501) 313-5431 www.cremationservicesofarkansas.com.

Hazen City Council agenda for the Thursday, April 16, meeting The Hazen City Council will be following the agenda printed below at its Thursday, April 16 meeting, which will be held at the Hazen Community Center. The

main order of business will be the discussion of a firearms discharge control ordinance.

Guests are asked to wear masks for safety.

AGENDA 1. Call to order 2. Roll Call 3. Approve the meet ing’s minutes 4. Standing committee reports & department

head reports a. Bradley Taylor b. Phillip Foot c. Ashley Loudermilk 5. Old Business 6. New Business Discussion of Ordinance No. 297-current ordinance to control the discharge of firearms in the city limits of Hazen 7. Announcements 8. Adjourn

Hickory Plains residents practice distancing...

King Kat employees wearing are shown here doing their civic duty by wearing masks. They are doing grab and go meals on Saturdays at their headquarters so people can get some fish to eat.

Stimulus package- what do family farms need to know

By Anna Johnson, policy manager, Center for Rural Affairs In the face of our public health crisis due to the coronavirus, Congress recently passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provides unprecedented levels of aid to individuals and industries, including a variety of supports for agriculture.

The first is the creation of a $9.5 billion disaster relief program for producers. Funding is for specialty crop, livestock, and local food producers.

The bill also includes an additional $14 billion for the Commodity Credit Corporation, the same fund previously used to make trade mitigation payments to commodity growers.

As of this writing, the

U.S. Department of Agriculture has not announced how it will administer this aid.

The legislation also provides funding for small business loan programs, including the newly-created Paycheck Protection Program. Farms apply through existing Small Business Administration lenders, including many banks and participating Farm Credit institutions.

Farms with 500 or fewer employees are eligible.

Lenders will accept applications through June 30, although interested individuals should not delay in applying. Visit sba.gov to learn more.

The CARES Act also provides $10 billion in funding for an existing program — the Economic Injury Disaster Loans — which many small businesses, but not farms, are currently eligible for.

These loans are for working capital following a disaster, for paying fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid due to a disaster.

Finally, self-employed people, including farmers, are now eligible to apply for unemployment benefits.

Congress has already begun discussions on the next aid package.

Farmers seeing adverse impacts from the coronavirus may contact their legislators’ offices to share concerns.

(Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, non-profit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.)

How to draw on the power of perseverance during the crisis 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

People’s ability to keep up their spirits is being put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health concerns, job concerns, and disruptions to day-to-day routines have combined to create a challenging situation for Americans and for people throughout the world.

But for anyone wondering whether they can persevere through these difficult times, it’s important to keep something in mind – others are likely counting on you, says Troy Nix (www.troynix.com), a motivational speaker, businessman and author of Eternal Impact: Inspire Greatness in Yourself and Others.

“Anytime you are in a tough place in life or in business, when you feel as if you cannot go on, you can summon energy from knowing you must carry the load so others can succeed along with you,” says Nix, founder and CEO of First Resource Inc., an association-management company specializing in manufacturing networks.

“Whether it’s your employees, your co-workers or your family, you do not want to let them down.”

Here’s the positive, Nix says. People have inside themselves the capability

to develop the kind of perseverance that will see them through the world’s current health and economic crisis – and through future crises they are certain to encounter.

His tips for developing that level of perseverance include: Have a strong vision of the future. Olympic athletes often picture a perfect routine or a perfect race, playing it over and over in their minds until they can actually perform it. Similarly Nix, who attended West Point, says the only thing that kept him from dropping out of the demanding military academy was to visualize himself tossing his hat in the air on graduation day. “I envisioned that day on every single one of the nearly 1,410 days I was on the academy grounds,”he says. “People can get through our current times the same way.

Try to envision what success will mean to you once this crisis is over.”

Understand how others survived tough times.

History is filled with stories of individuals or entire populations who struggled through the most difficult of times.

Friends and family members who overcame health concerns, financial troubles or personal tragedies can be the source of such stories, too, Nix says.

“Look at how they prevailed over challenges or obstacles in life,” Nix says. “Draw lessons and inspiration from what they did.”

Be okay with being uncomfortable. “People who consistently challenge themselves are more likely to persevere when they fail or when they encounter difficult times because they don’t feel that failure is a permanent condition,” Nix

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says. “The more times you put yourself out there in tough situations and fail, the more failure just doesn’t matter.” Those who get comfortable and avoid risks don’t develop that fortitude, he says.

“The one major thing that I’ve learned about perseverance is that we can all become mentally tougher,” Nix says. “In the end, the only thing that makes a person give up and quit are the thoughts that drive their final behavior; it’s all about mental fatigue. The question to ask yourself is this: Do you have the grit

to overcome that fatigue?”

Troy Nix (www.troynix.com), author of Eternal Impact: Inspire Greatness in Yourself and Others, is the founder, president, and CEO of First Resource, Inc., an innovative association management company for America’s manufacturers.

Nix, a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, served in the armed forces for a decade before moving into the business world.

Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, April 15, 2020

County Court’s proceedings suspended through May 1 for public safety PRAIRIE COUNTY DISTRICT JUDGE MARK PATE According to the Arkansas Supreme Court, all in-person court proceedings have been suspended through May 1, 2020, effective immediately.

The Prairie County District Court (Hazen Department) has postponed court dates as followed: Monday, March 23, 2020 has been rescheduled to Monday, May 11, 2020.

• Monday, April 13, 2020 has been rescheduled to Monday, May 18, 2020.

• Wednesday, April 15, 2020 has been rescheduled on a case by case basis.

• Monday, April 27, 2020 has been rescheduled to Monday, June 8, 2020.

Court will be held at 1:15 p.m. Notices have been mailed to the party's address issued on the citation. If your case involves a minor traffic violation, (Speeding, No Proof of Insurance, Failure To Yield or Stop at a Stop Sign, Expired Tags, Improper Lane Change, etc.) you may be able to pay your citation by money order, debit or credit card.

If more information is

needed, please contact the court at (870) 255-4513, ext. 1.

Certain court proceedings which require a sooner hearing may be handled on a case by case basis by the Judge using technological availability.

Contact the court at (870) 255-4513, ext. 3 for any questions.

The Prairie County District Court (Hazen Department) offices are open to answer your calls and assist you in rescheduling your case. We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience, but your safety and the safety of our court employees comes first.

Harding University postpones graduation SEARCY, Ark.— Due to the global spread of COVID-19 Harding University has rescheduled its commencement program, originally set for May 9, 2020, for Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020. The program will have multiple ceremonies, as usual, to accommodate the large number of graduates from its ten colleges.

While the commencement ceremony will take place in August, students who complete graduation requirements by the end of the spring semester will

have their degree conferred on schedule in May. Students who may be delayed in completing their graduation requirements will have their degrees conferred in August or upon completion.

“These decisions and measures are so difficult for all of us, but this is a temporary situation,” said Bruce McLarty, University president. “We will resume normal life and will be back together as soon as is feasible. It’s important for our students

to walk across the Benson stage and receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication. Our prayers are with all of the Harding community and with our entire world as we pray for protection, healing and strength through this difficult time.”

Students will receive further instructions for accomplishing tasks related to graduation, such as securing caps and gowns.

Additional information will be posted at harding.edu/graduation.

Harding University is a private Christian, liberal arts university located in Searcy, Arkansas.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, it is the largest private university in the state.

Harding’s student body represents 49 states and 55 nations and territories.

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Hope, Hope, Hope

What a year the first 3 months of this year started out to be. Some of us are asking, “What could be next!” The last month has been a lifetime event for so many of us that, but hopefully we can say “wow” in a couple of years.

As the author of this ad, I can say it doesn’t sound right. Coming on 8 years ago, many of us faced a once-in-a lifetime “wow” event with the Flood of 2011.

Do I want to go through another one? The answer is No!!!

I have seen many historical events in my short time on Earth - too many to mention in this ad. The purpose of this ad is to ask everyone to support the local businesses, especially the ones that have been dramatically impacted by this event. This too shall pass. Continuing to have a positive attitude when things look gloomy will get us through it.

Supporting others when things look bad is great. But the time that is the most crucial to the local business owner is when life begins to return to some form of normality. Restaurants that most of us frequent, either at breakfast or for dinner on Friday or Saturday nights, will need your support. The small boutiques, flower shops, clothing stores, and other kinds of businesses will need your help.

In closing - because of COVID-19, the state, county, and city governments will have to make some hard decisions in the coming weeks, especially concerning the school districts. Say a prayer for wisdom for our leaders who will make those decisions.

Also, give a big thank you to the first responders and the medical professionals who put their lives on the line for us and those we love!!!

Here is a small list of the local restaurants and other businesses that need your support. If you see the owners say thank you: Murry’s, Hurley House, Hornet Dairy Bar, Scoots, Craigs, T.J.’s Kitchen, Anna’s, Kristi Kitchen, SnoWhite Dairy Bar, Dondie’s, Will Pizzeria, El Amigo, Tortulas, Nick’s, and the Love’s Station restaurants. There are probably others that are missing from the list. You know who they are. Support them as well.

Easter is the season of hope. We will all get through this. But right now, we need to help those who need our help. So please support our local businesses.

Rick Dobson

Are you doing it correctly?

by Shea Wilson, Prairie County Extension Agent-FCS/4H We have all heard how important it is to sanitize to prevent the coronavirus from spreading, but are you doing it right? If you have been spraying your favorite commercial product on kitchen counters with one hand and wiping with the other, you probably are not disinfecting. You are just cleaning. While this is a good thing you must do a two-step process to effectively disinfect.

What’s the difference?

Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

Cleaning works by using soap (detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. You need to clean before disinfecting.

How you clean is just as important. Wiping down surfaces quickly is better than nothing, but during times like this, you need to really put some elbow grease into it.

Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces.

Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces after cleaning to reduce the risk of spreading infection. Here are some guidelines to follow when using these products.

First and foremost, plain old soap and water is your best friend. Proper hand washing is the best defense against the spread of germs. Wash your hands often and rub them together for a minimum of 20 seconds before rinsing. Use a paper towel to dry your hands and then turn off the faucet. Antibacterial soap will not give added protection. They are designed to kill bacteria, not viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has information on proper hand washing at http://bit.ly/HandWash1.

Start by cleaning hard surfaces. Wipe off countertops, faucets, doorknobs, telephones, electronics, tabletops, chair backs, light switches, handles, sinks and toilets - anything you come in contact with. While it may be impossible to

clean and disinfect every surface you encounter, you will be minimizing the spread of Covid-19.

Try to do this daily.

If you use kitchen towels for cleaning, they should be washed frequently in hot water.

Make a point to wash them especially after cleaning.

To disinfect, you must have a product that does that job. While that sounds silly, not all cleaning products disinfect.

Some are great at just making your home smell good. Read the label instructions to see if they are designed for disinfecting.

Many times, consumers will spray the product on and then wipe it off.

Disinfecting? Not necessarily. Again, read and follow the instructions for disinfecting on the product label. Many products state you must leave the solution on the surface for a certain length of time before wiping. It could be anywhere from 2 to 10 minutes before wiping.

All products work differently so you must follow the instructions.

What about liquid disinfectants? Many of these products are designed to disinfect if you do not dilute them. Read and follow the instructions on the product label. Most are already diluted and should be used full strength.

Finding disinfecting products in the store right now is almost impossible.

You can make your own disinfectant using household bleach solution. To prepare a bleach solution use 5 tablespoons or 1/3 cup of bleach to one-gallon water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water.

Bleach solution loses its effectiveness after 24 hours. Therefore, you will need to make a new batch every day. Consider making small amounts and discarding the rest when you are finished.

Remember, if you are using a spray bottle to store bleach solution in, label the bottle so everyone knows what it is.

Never, ever mix it with ammonia or other cleaners.

Wear disposable gloves when disinfecting to protect your hands. Many of these products are abra-

sive to skin. Once you are finished throw the gloves away. If using reusable gloves, be sure to disinfect them when you are finished. Also wash your hands properly after disinfecting surfaces.

Isopropyl alcohol solutions with at least 70 percent alcohol are effective against the coronavirus on hard surfaces. As with any other disinfectant, you will need to clean the surface with soap and water. Then apply the alcohol solution, full strength, and let it sit for at least 30 seconds to disinfect. Alcohol is considered safe for most surfaces.

Hydrogen Peroxide is an effective disinfectant.

According to the CDC, 3 percent hydrogen peroxide is effective in deactivating rhinovirus, the virus that causes the common cold. Pour it undiluted into a spray bottle (labeled) and spray it on the surface to be cleaned. You will need to let it sit for at least 1 minute before wiping down.

Hydrogen Peroxide is not abrasive and can be used on metal surfaces.

Bleach is abrasive and can damage metal surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide will discolor fabrics, just like bleach, so use it carefully.

Vinegar is not recommended as a disinfectant.

Contrary to what you may see on social media, vinegar is not effective in killing germs.

Do not mix cleaning chemicals! Cleaning products can be toxic especially when used improperly.

Again, be sure to label any containers you are using and store them out of the reach of young children.

Cleaning and disinfecting are good practices anytime and is something you need to do on a regular basis. No one knows how long the coronavirus will stick around. Do your part at home by protecting yourself and your family. Clean and disinfect daily. For more information on Covid-19 and protecting yourself, check out the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture at www.uaex.edu/covid-19 to find research based information.

USDA unveils tool to help rural communities address COVID-19 WASHINGTON– U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today unveiled a one-stopshop of federal programs that can be used by rural communities, organiza-

tions and individuals impacted by the COVID19 pandemic. The COVID19 Federal Rural Resource Guide (PDF, 349 KB) is a first-of-itskind resource for rural

leaders looking for federal funding and partnership opportunities to help address this pandemic.

“Under the leadership of President Trump, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities preparing for and impacted by COVID-19,” Perdue said.

“This resource guide will help our rural leaders, whether they are in agriculture, education, health care or any other leadership capacity, understand what federal assistance is available for their communities during this unprecedented time.”

USDA has taken many immediate actions to assist farmers, ranchers, producers, rural communities, and rural-based businesses and organizations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on these actions, visit www.usda.gov/coronavirus.

People

DO read small ads!

YOU DID!

Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Grand Prairie residents are finding ways to cope with COVID

Here are some more pictures of Hazen High School Senior Doors/Windows. They honor (from l to r): Easton Glover, Abby Richardson, Lexi Nicholas, and Madelyn Bokker. Parents began honoring their seniors this way after the2019-2020 in-building school year was ended by the state.

Make the most of your stimulus benefit...

by Shea Wilson, County Extension Agent-FCS/4H Many Americans are set to receive money from the government in the form of a stimulus benefit.

There will be tough financial decisions to make once received. Plan now to use your stimulus check wisely by saving for emergencies, paying bills and paying down debt.

Saving is more important now than ever.

Build savings by starting or contributing to an emergency savings fund.

Most personal finance experts recommend an emergency fund with enough to cover at least 2 months and up to 6 months of expenses. An emergency savings fund is your best protection in times of economic uncertainty.

Pay bills to stay current on payments and avoid defaulting. Missing payments can lead to foreclosure or repossession. Late and missing payments lower your credit score, making future credit more expensive and more difficult to obtain.

Pay down debt on credit cards. Paying off credit card debt can free more money in your future budget and save money on interest.

The amount of the stimulus benefit will vary depending on your income and family size.

Adults with annual income up to $75,000 will receive $1,200, plus another $500 per child.

Benefits will be distributed by check or direct deposit. This online calculator will tell you what your COVID-19 stimulus benefit will be: https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/busi-

ness/coronavirus-stimulus-checkcalculator/ Also, be aware of scammers who impersonate government officials by phone, email or social media demanding personal and banking information to verify eligibility for the government’s stimulus check.

To keep your stimulus and other financial information safe, only rely on official government websites (.gov) for economic relief information and

never give out your personal information over the telephone or by email.

The Cooperative Extension Service is your source for reliable information. We connect trusted research to the adoption of best practices, we are a catalyst of prosperity for Arkansans. For more information, visit our webpage at www.uaex.edu/money.

Prairie County

For Your Consideration: March 18, 2020 A friend, a Republican friend sent a text message to me, a Democratic friend, that said Joe Biden has done nothing “notable” in his career so why expect more if he were president?

Given the current unheard of condition of our nation and the threats it faces due to the coronavirus, I sent this reply to him with a plea to please forget the partisanship and personal attacks for a time and consider the needs of our families, communities and nation in a serious manner.

Dear Friend: As far as “notable” contributions of Joe Biden, I would count among them his role in stopping a Depression following the economic crash during the Bush/Cheney Administration. Saving the auto industry was very “notable’ as well as the housing and financial industries. Lowering the deficits of the Bush/Cheney era by 50% was “notable.” Engineering a recovery that created a positive growth cycle that lasted until the coronavirus interruption is very “notable.” Delivering American justice to Osama bin Laden was “notable” in light of the fact that the previous administration failed to do so for seven years. Delivering healthcare to tens of millions of Americans who had been excluded was “notable.” It’s both “notable” and honorable that Joe Biden was the Number 2 Man of the administration that had 0 indictments and no criminal convictions against its members and a record of honest dealings when compared to the 16, 241 dishonest claims recorded by its successor. Most “notable” but unappreciated by some was the work of Joe Biden to create a Pandemic Response Team of experts. Sadly, the current administration abolished that “notable and laudable body and we are seeing the shortsightedness of that reckless decision in the current health care and economic crisis. The Pandemic Team could have swung into action weeks earlier than the federal response time we’ve seen.

As Joe Biden might say, “Folks, this is no time to worry about who did what or did not do what, this is a time that we should pull together and face this crisis as Americans. Demonizing one another does not combat a deadly virus nor does it allow bipartisan efforts necessary to address the economic crisis we face.”

Truth from a leadership team that can earn our faith and trust to combat the massive dilemma we are facing is far more important than political gains or losses. Whomever is best suited to return civility to our political discourse and bring our nation’s focus back to its pressing needs and away from the chaos and divisiveness that has placed walls of rancor between friends, family members and neighbors deserves support from Americans of all political stripes.

Sincerely and humbly, The opinion of one very concerned American/Arkansan who happens to be a Democrat by choice.

Extension Agents are telecommuting to follow the social distancing best practices during the COVID-19 crisis. For the latest information on Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) topics follow LIVINGWELLONTHEPRAIRIE on Facebook or contact Shea Wilson at smwilson@uaex.edu or 870-998-2614.

Meyah Stovesand wipes down shopping carts at the City Market in Carlisle.

Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Tim VanHouten Kitchen and Bath

Bowman Plumbing 870-255-5126

Serving the Entire Grand Prairie Adam Bowman, MP 6142

Cultured marble, flooring, custom showers, and countertops

Free Estimates 20 Years Experience

INMAN DENTAL CLINIC Thomas G. Inman DDS IDC

PO Box N 513 N. Williams Street Carlisle, AR 72024 Ph: 870-552-3500

Repair - Remodel New Construction Dependable Service Free Estimates Family Owned and Operated Call: (870) 256-5230

To Whom It May a 2008 BMW 528 VIN#WBANU53X8CT136 75 was picked up on 9-1-19 at Tim’s Repair 6725 Hwy 70, North Little Rock at the request of the owner of Tim’s Repair 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.

(4-15-2tc)

Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical Keith Knupp 501.516.8285

Sell what you don’t need in the GRAND PRAIRIE HERALD CLASSIFIEDS!

knuppinc@hotmail.com

Call 870-255-4538

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

free Call 2554538

Billy’s Body Shop & Wrecker Service. P. O. Box 696, Hazen Ark 72064.

To whom it may concern: 2011 Infiniti G37X VIN# JN1CV6AR6BM353792 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

first 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.

(4-8-2tc.)

To Whom It May Concern a 2001 Chevy Monte Carlo VIN#2G1WX15K8192794 was picked up on 9-1-19 at Tim’s Repair 6725 Hwy 70, North Little Rock at the request of the owner of Tim’s Repair 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 chargeswaiver 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 2004 Mercury Mountaineer # 4M2DU86W94ZJO6619 was picked up on 9-12019 at I Hazen, AR at I40 at the request of the Prairie County Sheriff’s Dept. 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 2011 Toyota Tundra 4x4 VIN# 5TFUW5F18BX172722 was picked up on 4-32020 at the Bryant McDonald’s at the request of the owner. 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.

Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Local basketball players are chosen for all-conference teams

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor Several area basketball players earned all-conference honors for their respective schools.

Carlisle senior Creed Carter was named to the 2A5 South All-Conference team.

Several Hazen players earned postseason honors for the 2A-5 South conference. Lady Hornets receiving the honor include sophomore Trelby Gipson and junior Kristen Curlett. Hornets receiving all-conference honors are: senior Deangelo Buchanan and sophomore Malik Larkin.

Creed Carter

Deangelo Buchanan

Kristen Curlett

Soil test now for optimum yields

by Carol Sanders UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences A soil test is essential to maximize yields in gardens, said Shaun Francis, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Extension Program horticulture specialist. A soil test not only reveals which nutrients are needed, and in what quantities, but also whether or not the soil pH should be corrected.

This is important because if the pH level is not in the correct range, plants cannot take up nutrients in the soil, he said.

Soil sampling provides the most efficient use of nutrients thus maximizing fertilizer and lime application dollars.

Excess nutrients waste money and compromise the environment through groundwater contamination, Francis said. Careful soil testing and correction ensures that each crop gets exactly what it needs to grow and yield its full potential, while protecting the environment from contamination by runoff and the leaching of excess fertilizer.

Tools needed for a sample collection include a clean bucket, a soil auger, a hand trowel, a pen or waterproof marker and a soil sample box that can be picked up at your nearest county Extension office. Collect a representative sample by randomly collecting at least 25

soil cores from each sample area using the soil auger. However, avoid taking samples from nontypical or abnormal spots such as close to a fence or where you handled fertilizer or have a compost heap.

Using a hand trowel, mix the soil thoroughly in a bucket to form what is called a composite sample that should represent no more than 20 acres. For home gardens, five to 10 soil cores would be sufficient to form a composite sample.

The soil lab report provides recommendations for nutrients and lime for pH correction.

Recommendations will be given in pounds per acre, which you must convert to pounds of a manufacturer’s mixture. The county Extension agent can help you do so and also suggest alternative fertilizer combinations that may match recommendations, which could save you money.

Although soil sampling can be done at any time of year, Francis suggests that the ideal time to do so is about three months before planting. This allows time to work the soil, adjust the soil pH and add any organic material if needed, he said.

For more information on soil sampling or help interpreting your soil sample results, contact your local county Extension agent.

Trelby Gipson

Creed Carter

He is risen!...

David and Nita Hardke, along with other members of the Hazen First United Methodist Church decorated a resurrection cross for the Easter season,

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