75¢
HHS holds awards ceremony. (See pictures on p. 6.)
Volume 120 Number 21 - USPS 225-680
Community Calendar of Events Thursday May 27 Hazen’s 6th grade graduation ceremony Elementary Cafeteria 9:00 a.m. Monday May 31
The annual Memorial Day event in Hazen City Park will not be held this year. The Grand Prairie Herald will be distributed a day late this week so that we can celebrate Memorial Day. Both Courthouses will be closed for Memorial Day, May 31, 2021. Tuesday June 8 Prairie County Quorum Court meeting in Des Arc Courthouse annex 6:00 p.m. Thursday June 10 DeValls Bluff City Council meeting DVB City Hall 6:00 p.m. Tuesday June 15 Prairie County Master Gardeners’ meeting Hazen First Methodist Church Fellowship 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.
Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie
Wednesday, May 26, 2021
PC Quorum Court views improvements on Des Arc courthouse Architects Robert Shelle and Jerrie Ott gave a presentation showing the renovation of the Prairie County Courthouse building in Des Arc at the regular May 11 meeting of the Prairie County Quorum Court. All of the Justices were present along with Judge Mike Skarda, Attorney Abram Skarda, and department heads Gaylon Hale, Tamara Dabney, and Sheriff Rick Hickman. Shelle and Ott opened the meeting with a Powerpoint presentation showing before and after pictures of the work that has been done on the Des Arc courthouse to date. The county has spent twenty-two thousand dollars so far on the expected one million dollar renovation. Ott showed pictures of the water damage on the outside of the courthouse, but “the biggest problem we had was interior water damage,” Ott said. Plaster is coming off in the jury room and courtroom. It was necessary to stop the water, so those repairs were done first. The gutter was not functional, so the support structure was replaced with cedar to meet Historical Society standards. “It’s not cheap, but necessary to keep the water out of the building,” Ott said. The masonry contractor for the project was MidContinental Restoration.
Robert Schelle and Jerrie Ott give a PowerPoint presentation showing the before and after pictures of work being done on the Des Arc courthouse. “They did an incredible job,” Ott said. Some windows were broken, and some had glass held in by caulk. The windows were removed and reinstalled properly, and then they were painted to make them water tight. The second floor windows were all original to the building. The louvers on the clock tower were replaced and the clerestory window was restored. The plan includes the repair of the clock so that it will work, using an electronic clock work which “will be a significant saving over time,” Ott said. The clock tower restoration is a $6000 project, but some overages in cost have already been encountered due to the replace-
ment of the balustrade. The interior courtroom project included taking out the current ceiling tiles. Although the uncovered tin ceiling showed some damage, replacement ceiling tiles have been found to replace those that are damaged. The wooden floor is in “fantastic” shape, Ott said, with only a few boards needing to be replaced. The plans are to leave some of the original brick exposed in some areas rather than plaster over them. The money spent so far is on target with the budget. “We’ve been very lucky,” Ott said. “The odds of having that kind of funding quality will never happen again. It’s well worth it if you can save the buildings.” Architect Robert
Schelle and Jerrie Ott designed the County Health Clinic, the Oak Prairie Fire Department, the Des Arc Senior Citizens Center, and the Des Arc First Baptist Church Family Life Center. They worked on designs for the Prairie County Library branch in Des Arc with no charge to the county. A list was presented to the justices by Schelle explaining how the dollars have been spent on the Des Arc Courthouse. The courtroom will be the most expensive part of the Des Arc courthouse restoration. The intention is to improve the comfort in the building and have functional wifi. The electrical systems of the courthouse and the county jail have been separated, and an
emergency generator has been installed at the courthouse. Upon completion of the Des Arc courtroom, bids will be taken for the start of the DeValls Bluff courtroom renovation. Another grant application has been submitted to the Historical Society to repair the DeValls Bluff courthouse. Judge Skarda told the court that he had an accident in the countyissued Ford F-150. The vehicle was totaled, and the county was reimbursed $32,000.00 by the insurance company. The truck purchased to replace the totalled vehicle is a Chevy Silverado that will cost the county $30,000.00. There are two countyowned 2001 Dodge pickups that are going to be scrapped for $200.00 a piece, and a Dell Server used by the Census Bureau will be removed from the Assessor’s office inventory. Sheriff Rick Hickman said that he will be conducting a safety meeting on May 27, 2021, from 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. for the Road Department and the City of Des Arc Police Department. At the end of the meeting, Amy Greenwalt Tallent, the new Prairie County Extension Agent, was introduced to the justices. Tallent will be taking the place of Brent Griffin who recently passed away.
Hazen Schools makes plans for spending federal money, updates salary schedule The Hazen School District School Board approved the spending of thousands of dollars for programs, furniture, textbooks and materials, professional development, and interim assessments with federal funds at its regular May meeting held on the 17th in the high school library. Board members Darlene Connors, Freddie Rogers, Vicki Skarda, Mason Sickel, Sandra Penn, President Ritchie Ingle, and new board member Robyn Cohen. Spending includes $23,968.40 for the purchase of classroom furniture from K-Log that will allow for social distancing for teachers and students, $13,207.11 for science textbooks and materials from McGraw Hill for seventh and eighth graders, $22,500.00 to continue the “Capturing Kids Hearts 2” program from Flippin Group with summer professional development, $50,046.74 to purchase StudySync Core McGraw Hill for grades 7-12 and six year bundles to supplement the literacy curriculum, $20,039.12 for the purchase of the Read 180 Universal intervention services from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for the Special Education reading and literacy program, and $25,056.25 to purchase interim assessment programs for three years from NWEA for grades 7-10 to acquire needed data and to replace the ACT Aspire interim assessments which have been dropped by the state. All of these will be paid for with Elementary
and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSA II) funds provided by the federal government. The board also approved the purchase of I-station Math and I-station Reading resources from Istation for student diagnostic assessment and interventions using Every Student Succeeds Act) ESSA funds. Another $11,000 will be spent for the Process Champions job embedded professional development to use the “Capturing Kids Hearts” program will be paid for with Title IIA funds. Superintendent Donnie Boothe said that the district was lucky to have these federal funds to spend on students. This funding is temporary and must be spent or it will be lost to the district. The board also approved Boothe’s recommendation to approve the updated Classified Salary Schedule for the 2021-22 school year, and hired the classified staff for the next school year. They voted to approve the and a stipend for Susan Booth, who provided Saturday and after detention for the district during the second semester for this year. Nine students were accepted as School Choice transfers to the Hazen School District for next year. The students approved for summer employment were Braylon Anderson, Easton Glover, Brayden Lindsey, Austin Rogers, and Shedrick Ward. Molly Sayer was hired as a K-12 paraprofessional for the 2021-2022 school year, and Mark Price
resigned as the high school baseball coach for the 2021-22 school year. Lucas Tenison will coach the baseball team with the help of a volunteer. The district is not planning to hire more coaches. “Coach Besancon and I have talked about changing up coaches,” Booth said. High School Principal Mark Price told the board that several endof-the-year events had been very successful, including the Honors Banquet, Senior Day, the Junior/Senior Prom, the Athletic Banquet, and graduation. “The prom was fantastic,” he said. “I’m grateful to our staff for getting the air conditioning going in the gym (for graduation),” he said. No other business was discussed, and the meeting ended.
DAR shows appreciation... The Grand Prairie Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is currently working on a project to express appreciation to area doctors, nurses, medical staffs, and nursing homes during this stressful Covid season. In order to show our gratitude for the long hours and extra work they have been doing for over a year now, we have written cards of thanks and appreciation. In the photo above, DAR member Cheryl Vickers (right) presents the appreciation cards to Chambers Nursing Home Center manager and part-owner Judy Glover Cordell last month in Carlisle.
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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, May 26, 2021
DA Council approves new rates for ambulance services “Sonny” James Hancock “Sonny”James Hancock, 54, of DeValls Bluff, formerly of Forrest City, Arkansas, left this world to be with our Father in heaven on May 19, 2021. He was born on April 10, 1967 in Jacksonville, Arkansas. James is survived by his mother, Barbara Hancock; his sister, Tammy Griffin; two nieces, Rebecca Hancock and Hayley Cooper, and one nephew, Jacob Cooper; brother-in-law, Ken Griffin and one great niece, Madelyn Lindsey plus a host of wonderful aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Hancock. “Sonny” graduated from Forrest City High School in 1986. He then
went on to serve in the military for a short time before he came home to help with the family business. He continued on with his life to do odd jobs and work at T&S Sawmill in Clarendon, Arkansas. James enjoyed spending time with his family and enjoyed playing video games, watching movies, and fishing. He was very loved by his family and friends and always had a big heart to help anyone in need. Visitation will be held Saturday, May 22 from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at the First Baptist Church in De Valls Bluff. Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Sunday, May 23, 2021 at the First Baptist Church in De Valls Bluff. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery in De Valls Bluff. Floral arrangements may be delivered to the First Baptist Church in De Valls Bluff.
GFWC Elsie McCain Club hears about Grandma Moses By Chris Weems Rosetta Van Houten gave a biography of “Grandma Moses” for the lesson at the GFWC Elsie McCain Club Meeting at the DeValls Bluff Diary Bar Tuesday at noon. Grandma Moses, who had been drawing and painting since she was a young child was not recognized as an artit until she was in her later years of life. Her fame became enormous. Chris Weems, president, presided over the meeting. Rita Farris, secretary, read the minutes that were approved. The meeting began
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with current events. In discussing some of the events, it was told to all the members present have had both parts of the covid vaccine. The GFWC-AR Zoom session was Saturday May 15, will be in place of the State Convention which was cancelled due to the covid-19. Members can watch it and vote on any issue that are brought up. The anouncements of awards for the departments will be published in the Federation Speaks. Rosetta thanked the club for the flowers when she had a procedure done a few days ago. One special point about Grandma Moses that Rosetta, chairman of the arts and culture department told was that she printed Christmas cards because she wanted more people to see her art work. She was callwas called a “Folk Artist because of the subjects she chose to paint. SHe painted what she saw. The next meeting will be May 27, and time and place will be announced.
Delivery of the Grand Prairie Herald will be delayed by a day due to the Memorial Day holiday.
At the May 17th city council meeting, an ordinance was approved to amend the ambulance rates effective immediately. Attending the meeting were Mayor Jim Garth, Treasurer/Recorder Chrisanna Knupp and Council Members Gary Burnett, Jodie Mayher, Nicole Fisher, Gail King, Ray McVay and Anna Beth Fisher. The new basic rate for ambulance services The will range from $400 to $650 and the mileage rates will range from $8.50 to $15.00. This is the first increase in several years and is still less than most ambulance rates in the area. These rates are in compliance with what Medicare and Medicaid allow. Butch Calhoun, along with the cemetery committee, reported that $25,682 has been donated to build a pavilion at the cemetery. He said that the committee has
looked at several pavilions at other cemeteries and has decided on the
Butch Calhoun addresses the council about the new gazebo at the cemetery. best option. They recommended a 28 x 24 steel structure with a pitched roof and back wall with concrete connecting it to the road. He said benches would be added as funds were available. Calhoun asked the council for permission to
advertise for bids to begin construction. The council approved a motion to advertise and accept bids to be opened at the June meeting. Jay Downing addressed the council concerning people speeding in his neighborhood of Pike and 2nd Streets. He said there are a lot of children, and he is very concerned for their safety. Downing made it clear that he knows police are doing their best and that when drivers see the police, they do slow down. Downing asked if speed bumps might be an option. Mayor Garth asked the street committee to look into the matter and bring a recommendation to the June meeting. Cecil Taylor addressed the council with his continued issue about enforcement of city building codes. He stated that he had not planned to come to the council again about the
matter, but he had been confronted by two people who were very upset about his complaints, and he is afraid that the city could end up in a court case for not enforcing the codes for a nonconformant structure. There was no response from the council. Michelle Barlow asked the council “How many different city positions can one employee hold and be paid for?” Mayor Garth answered “As many as needed that an employee is qualified for.” Council member Anna Beth Fisher gave an example “If a Police Officer was also an ambulance driver.” New Police Officer Micah Dukes was introduced by Mayor Garth. A motion was passed to bypass accepting bids for the renovation of the gazebos at Riverfront Park so that someone could be hired now to begin the work before the summer starts.
Federal rent, utility bill assistance now available Arkansans who are having trouble paying rent or utility bills due to COVID-19 can apply now for federal money to help cover costs incurred since April 2020, including Entergy Arkansas customers and others across the state. “Because of COVID19, many of our customers are facing unexpected financial hardship – some due to illness, loss of jobs and other factors,” said Entergy Arkansas Vice President of Customer Service Michael Considine. “These assistance programs along with payment plans can help Entergy Arkansas customers who rent their home keep their power on while they continue to navigate these unprecedented times.” The Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program has allocated $173 million to be administered through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), and state officials estimate some 56,000 households will qualify for the program. DHS established the Arkansas Rent Relief Program to distribute the available funds. Eligible households may receive up to 15 months of assistance for rent and/or utility costs incurred between April 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021. Covered utilities
Notice of Public Hearing The Des Arc Zoning & Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 7, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the Des Arc City Council chambers at the request of the Des Arc Cemetery committee members and at the request of Anna Beth Fisher. The cemetery committee is requesting a 29 foot variance relief to set back from Walls Street to build a cemetery pavilion. Anna Beth Fisher is requesting a 20 foot variance relief to set back from Fair road to build a carport and add a pool with a wrought iron fence. The purpose of the hearing is to receive public comments from the neighbors and citizens of the City of Des Arc. All interested persons are urged to attend.
include electric, gas and water. Up to three months of future rent may be applied for at one time; utilities may be applied for monthly once the bill is received. Officials said an eligible household is defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals: ·qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19; · demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and ·has a household income at or below 80% area median income. Landlords and tenants may submit an application for rent relief. Utility-only applicants do not need their landlord to submit an application. Funds will be paid directly to landlords and utility service providers, including Entergy Arkansas, for past due bills. Residents of Benton, Pulaski, and
Washington counties must apply through their local county government, and more information is available through DHS or online at ar.gov/rentrelief. Entergy Arkansas stopped all service disconnects for nonpayment in March 2020 but has resumed disconnections along with other utilities in the state per direction from the Arkansas Public Service Commission. “Entergy Arkansas customers who have outstanding bills should contact us online, through the Entergy app or by phone immediately to enroll in a payment plan and to avoid disconnection before it
occurs,” Considine said. For more information about the federal program, visit https://www.entergy.co m/covid-19/rentalassistance/. Other free programs are also available to help low income residential customers lower their energy usage and costs, along with bill payment assistance, and can be found online at https://www.entergyarkansas.com/payment-options/. To enroll in a payment plan, call 1-800ENTERGY or use the Entergy app, which can be downloaded for Apple IOS or Android at this link – www.Entergy.com/app.
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Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, May 26, 2021
Local club members attend Committee of 100 spring event at Folk Center
Rita Farris (left) and Chris Weems (right) with author Cindy Smith. By Chris Weems Rita Farris of Biscoe and Chris Weems of Hazen, attended the Spring Event of the Committee of 100, Friday and Saturday at the Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View. The committe of 100 is the support group for the Folk Center. The event began with dinner at the home of Kay and Jim Hinkle in Mountain View with a concert after dinner by the Pam Setser Band. Pam, the vocalist has made several records and performs regularly around the state. After breakfast Saturday morning, the group met in the small auditorium where they heard Grady Spann tell about stats of the State Parks in the last
year. John Morrow, Superintendent of the Ozark Folk Center talked about the renovation of the cabins in the park and improvements in the herb garden during the last year. The group also heard from Stacy Hurst who was appointed director of the Department of Arkansas Heritage of Governor Asa Hutchinson in January, 2015. She is responsible for the work of eight separate agencies that identify, protect, and promote the state’s nature, historic, and cultural resources. She talked about the dayto- day operation of the state parks. Cindy Smith, author and lecturer, who has had a
book recently published talked about her book, “Southern as I see It - A Practical Guide to Manners, Traditions, and Things Your Mama Should Have Taught You.” She was born in Minnesota and came to the South as a teenager. She says she loves it here, has lost her accent, and says “Y’all” naturally. She had a book signing after the morning session. The session resumed with business at 1:00. Then free time and dinner at 6:30 at JoJo’s. Saturday afternoon was a time to visit the Hub Garden and craft area. Sunday morning after breakfast, the executive committee met and the event was adjourned.
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 January 2021. 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) 661-2623.
Blurred Vision -
By Nathaniel Bradow
“Proof over Protection”
One sure sign that you are getting older, gentle readers, is if you start using phrases like, “You know, back in my day,” or “When I was younger we didn’t have…” or “The kids today don’t appreciate all the …” or “What is a TikTok?” I guess I am either feeling a little old or a little nostalgic this week because I have found myself muttering one or two of these under my breath a few times. But, sometimes I worry about the next generation or two that are coming down the proverbial pipeline. And what has me feeling the ache in my bones this week, you ask? Well, as a teacher there is no end to administrative bureaucracy and teen anxiety. This week however, I am concerned with a push to “protect” toddlers, children, and young adults all from the harsh realities of the world. Now, toddlers for sure do not need to be left to their own devices, nor am I suggesting that it is good practice to make Kurt Vonagut’s books or Shakespeare’s tragedies part of their reading time. Toddlers should be concerned with shapes, colors, speech development, and which side of the playpen smells the worst. Children (for the sake of argument let’s say those who have not reached puberty) are in much the same boat both physically and mentally. They are too curious, and rightly so, about the world to be asked to navigate the subtleties and shocks of Steinbeck or Morrison. Children need to be experimenting with the physical world; making mud pies, learning not to touch the stove, refining motor skills, and learning to play in the street. There is such a thing as age-appropriate materials. There are parts of the Bible I would not read in graphic detail with margin notes to kids in these age groups. I’m not a monster. However, young adults who are old enough for the things they do to have life-changing consequences, need to be taught and understand what the world of adulthood is about before it is thrust upon them with vicious relentlessness. Being an English teacher, I see this mostly from “helicopter” parents. For some reason
there is the overwhelming idea that whatever is written down in a book is more damaging than anything that might be heard or seen. I have parents who complain about the use of vulgarity in reading and about the use of graphic imagery in reading. I even have parents that complain about the use of magic or witchcraft in readings. I know they all mean well and wish to protect their adorable spawn from the evils and dark paths that such things can open. I get it. Your kids are precious to you, and you don’t want them besmirched in some way by an uppity English teacher. Here is the deal, gentle readers. Kids are sponges. They soak up everything around them, and you only have so much control over those things. Like toddlers needing to know the difference between Blue and Orange, young adults need to know the difference between heartlessness and compassion. For sure, both exist in abundance in the world, and you want them to carry more of one trait than the other. Books, with good yet troublesome themes can help your child understand their complexities. They learn and solidify empathy for others, and learn to think before they act. Young adults need to learn through the eyes of others. Just like you don’t want your 7-yearold to learn what hot is by branding themselves on the stove top, you don’t want young adults ignorant of all the ways the world has of beating them down or tripping them up learning that a police record will follow you to a job interview. Literature is an excellent place to gain those skills through the eyes of imaginary characters. If you don’t want your kids to grow up cruel, you don’t expose them to actual cruelty. You give them a story that illustrates cruelty and its effects and the virtues of kindness. If you don’t want your kids to be unjust, you don’t send them to jail. You read a story about what real unjustness looks like. If you don’t want them to use foul language, then you read something with foul language and explain why it is not appropriate or helpful. I know you don’t believe me, or are at
least a bit s u s p i cious, but teachers really do care for their students. My students are MY kids. I treat them like I would my own. I don’t caudle them, I hold them accountable to deadlines. I work through the tough times and the disagreements. We talk. I listen. They listen. Eventually, they say something like, “That would never happen to me or my family,” or “If I were them, I would have done …” And that’s the point! Without the comparison they have no clue what to do. Without experience, ignorance takes over. Reading allows young adults to have experiences that are troubling, unsettling, shocking, painful, illuminating, joyful, and euphoric in a safe place. They can work through their thoughts. Reason out their anger. Discuss their repulsion. Embrace their wonder. And learn what they would do if … Movies aren’t the same. Music isn’t the same. The good guys don’t always win. The princess doesn’t always get rescued. Sometimes the frog is just a frog. Don’t protect your kids from books and leave their moral compasses to point toward the most magnetic object in range. Talk to your kids about books and give them the ability to see true North. Guard them against the evils of the world by giving them something to practice on. Let them build their armor and skills while you are there to guide them. Don’t let them go like sheep into a world full of wolves unarmed and unarmored. Let them read. Then, let them talk. Let them prove they can handle the world. To comment, you can reach me at thatbradowguy@gmail.com
Hazen Cemetery Donations The following contributions have been made the the Hazen Cemetery. In Memory of: Cobb By: Debra Acree
Ella
In Memory of Dr. Arthur and Carolyn Camp By: Karen & Sarah Tipton In Memory of : Janet Hayes By: Karen & Sarah Tipton In Memory of: Minnie Perry By: Karen & Sarah Tipton In Memory of: Bill Bartley By: Karen & Sarah Tipton Geraldine Rhodes In Memory of: Rick Johnson By: Freida Winkler Billy & Nona Gail Booth Rosetta VanHouten Eric& Angie Greenwalt Barbara Rogers In Memory of: Rudy VanHouten By: Freida Winkler In Memory of: Margaret Pich By: Freida Winkler In Memory of: Jim Guenther By: Billy & Nona Gail Booth Upkeep: Wheeler
Melinda
Donations are greatly appreciated and may be mailed to: Hazen Cemetery P.O. Box 92 Hazen, Ar. 72064
Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, May 26, 2021
City of Hazen to purchase Ray Dental building
DAR shows appreciation to healthcare workers... Pictured above are medical secretary Crystal Tosh, left, along with MA Dorothy Walker of ARcare Carlisle on Wednesday, May 19, as they receive appreciation cards from Grand Prairie Chapter DAR. This effort is part of the chapter's Service to America project to honor and show appreciation for the long hours and extra work provided by medical workers in the area. Thank you, ARcare Carlisle. (Cards presented by DAR member, Judi Jones, not shown.)
Des Arc High School adds new EAST program for the 2021-22 school year Des Arc High School has been chosen as one of the eight new schools in Arkansas to receive an EAST lab for the 2021-22 school year. EAST stands for “education accelerated by service and technology.” Through EAST, students are empoweredwith technology, by encouraging critical thinking and creative problem-solving and by engaging them in positive, real-world experiences. A nonprofit organization headquartered in Little Rock, EAST currently serves more than 270 schools in four states. EAST promises to equip each program with the tools necessary to produce the next generation of STEM leaders, business owners, and problem solvers. EAST advocates lifelong learning and community service so that participants can become positive agents of change to improve the world around them. The programs are committed to using technology, critical thinking, communication and service to enhance the lives of community members Each program receives industry-grade technology, significant professional development for facilitators (teachers who manage in the EAST environment) and administrators, access to over 70 specialized student technology trainings, and real-world experiences that the students use to pursue projects based on their interests and career goals. Matt Dozier, president and CEO of EAST shared his thoughts: “We are very happy to see the EAST family growand expand in these eight schools. The projects that the students in these schools will undertake will have a lasting impact on their communities and help tie together the learning that is at the heart of their school experience. The decision to add EAST is a commitment to innovation
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and longevity in theworkforce. We are extremely thankful for the continued support of the Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson, the Arkansas Legislature, the Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education for making it possible to provide the opportunities that EAST represents." The new EAST schools for 2021-22 are: Acorn High School Arkansas Virtual Academy High School Arkansas Virtual Academy Middle School Des Arc High School Fulbright Junior High School (Bentonville School District) International Studies Magnet School (Jonesboro School District) Lakeside Junior High School (Lakeside School District – Hot Springs) West Side Elementary School (West Side School District – Greers Ferry) To learn more about EAST, visit www.EASTinitiative.org
The Hazen City Council voted to purchase the building that once held Dr. Stephen Ray’s dentistry office at its regular meeting held on May 20 in the Hazen Community Center. Present were Councilmen Larry Anthony, Dallas Taylor, Tim Juola, Rick Wiggins, and Steve Chlapecka. The now closed dental office has a roof that is only 5 to 6 years old and in good shape according to Mayor David Hardke. It also has a fresh coat of paint, good carpeting, and custom-made cabinets. Currently, a rent of $100 a month is being paid by Charles Ingle for his building, which was formerly a barber shop, that is on the property behind the clinic. Ray has asked $28,000 for the building, and is in the process of removing the rest of his equipment from it. Hardke told the council that Ray has agreed to pay half of the closing costs and pay the taxes. “We have the funds,” he said. The office is at the end of the block where City Hall is located on North Hazen Avenue.
The council also discussed the sewer fee recovery that will begin with the June billing. Hardke said that the calculations for the additions charged to the Sewer System customers are expected to be completed next week. “I don’t think it will be a tremendous burden on anybody,” Hardke said. This will be the last council meeting for Utilities Manager Phillip Foot, as he will be retiring at the end of the month after 24 years of service to the city. Foot addressed the council saying, “Thank you for the support you have given the Utilities Department.” He praised the incoming Utilities Manager, Chad Swaim. “Chad is the most loyal employee I’ve ever had,” Foot said. Swaim has been with the department for 21 years. A come-and-go reception for Foot will be held in the City Hall office building on North Hazen Avenue on Thursday, May 27, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend. Swaim told the council that his department is downsizing the utilities
department crew by one employee. He said that there had been some problems with the Aristotle internet fiber cable installation, with a water main and a gas main cut. Most of the problems encountered were due to old and/or incomplete city records, and Swaim said that the problems had been fixed without too much problem. Swaim also said that the grass at I-40 had been mowed. Hardke said that the McClelland engineering firm was helping with a capital improvement plan for the water and sewer systems. He said that the work is being done in preparation for expansion of services for more businesses locating at I-40. Swaim gave the report for the Fire Department, stating that they had fourteen first responder calls, two 18-wheeler fires, a vehicle fire, a fire at the Grand Prairie Country Club, and one burned house. Mayoral Assistant Tracie Vail told the council that 504 tires had been picked up during the recent city-
wide collection. The three trailer loads of tires and rims weighed 900 pounds each, according to Vail, and filled two bins. The city still has fifteen to twenty tires to recycle after collecting tires on the north side of town. Councilman Wiggins said that he will take the extra tires. The city plans to collect tires on the south side of town next. Vail also said that there have been some problems with Aristotle internet reception in the Grady addition. Aristotle owner, Elizabeth Bowles, says there could be a dead spot. The company is still working on towers and fiber installation to houses. Vail said that citizens interested in Aristotle internet service should “go to aristotle.net and let them know that you want fiber.” Hardke reported that two mosquito flights have already been done and the truck will start fogging the city as soon as the mosquito population begins to pick up. He also handed out a copy of the budget for the county library and its summer schedule.
Stuttgart’s Meekins Middle School will participate in Arkansas Professional Learning Communities at Work The Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, in partnership with Solution Tree, a national professional development provider, announces tha Meekins Middle School of the Stuttgart School District will be part of the fifth cohort selected for the Arkansas Professional Learning Communities at Work® project. Thirteen schools and two districts from around the state were selected for the 20212022 school year and join 39 schools and five districts chosen over the last four years. Because of additional funding allocated by legislators, DESE was able to select additional schools and districts to participate this upcoming school year. As with the first four cohorts, each school and district in the fifth cohort will receive up to 50 days of training, coaching, and support to build and sustain a
strong culture of collaboration that will enhance student learning. Those chosen completed a rigorous application and evaluation process. A panel of education professionals reviewed all applications “The PLC model has proven to be a successful best practice implemented in many schools around the state,” Gov. Asa Hutchinson said. “Schools that have embraced the PLC partnership, teacher coordination, and studentfocused learning have seen improved learning and a culture that breeds success. I am excited that additional schools and districts now have the opportunity to learn about the benefits
associated with this highly-successful program.” “Since the first cohort was announced four years ago, we have seen tremendous growth in teacher collaboration, school culture, and student learning,” ADE Secretary Johnny Key said. “This new cohort has joined the others by making an important commitment to rebuilding internal systems, leveraging best practices, and creating a strong culture of learning. I congratulate them on their dedication to student learning and embracing the hard but rewarding - work involved with this initiative.” As with the previous
four cohorts, the 20212022 cohort will be matched with a certified PLC at Work associate from Solution Tree and receive intensive jobembedded training, observation, and coaching. The schools and districts will create action plans that focus on increasing student achievement through aligned curriculum, formative assessments, and proven instructional strategies. During the second year, the schools and districts will deepen their understanding and focus on implementing multi-tiered systems of support, followed by strengthening their systems and sustaining the process in year three.
COME AND JOIN US!!! The City of Hazen is hosting a come-and-go reception for our retiring Utilities Manager
Phillip Foot Come to the City Hall office building on North Hazen Avenue this Thursday May 27th from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and help us thank him for his 24 years of service to the City. Everyone is invited to attend.
Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, May 26, 2021
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Hazen High School presents awards for academic achievement in ceremony Hazen High School recently held its annual 20202021 awards ceremony in the HHS Hornets’ Nest gymnasium. Wendy Perry kindly provided the pictures and names of the students who were honored.
7th Grade Academic Awards: Emily Mills, Remington Fegley, Wesley Clifton, Matthew Bokker, Dylan Skarda, and Sophie Raper.
8th Grade Academic Awards: Chloe Rose, Lexi Dulany, Kendall Sisemore, Lora Beth Webb, Carson Kee, Matti Alberson, and Emma Cantwell.
Junior High Beta Club Inductees: Payton Anderson, Matthew Bokker, Wesley Clifton, Remington Fegley, Eli Kitchens, Payton Kocourek, Ethan Lisko, Emily Mills, Ally Mooney, Gabrielle Morgan, Sophie Jane Raper, Maci Sickel, Dylan Skarda, Brody Swaim, Matti Alberson, Chloe Caldwell, Emma Cantwell, Sam Clayton, Lexi Dulany, Phoenix Ervin, Jaci Hackelton, Maddie Humbert, Joseph Hurley, Carson Kee, Karly Grace Kinard, Austin Kocourek, Forest Lawless, Ryan Martin, MaKayla McCray, Chloe Rose, Ethan Simmons, Owen Simmons, Kendall Sisemore, Jameion Stigall, and Brance Williams. Senior High Beta Club Inductees: Nash Arnett, Jordyn Elaine Besancon, Austyn Leigh Booth, Savannah Glover, Taylor Griffin, Colton Holloway, Abby Leigh Hopkins, Faith Michelle Johnson, Arianna Pabon, Mattie Karoline Perry, Allison Nicole Prine, Kaycie Seely, Katelin Renee Wallace, Robert Lee Brennon, Kelcie Dorathy, Lane Thomas Harper, Presley Danielle Isbell, Collin Kee, Luke King, Holden Lawless, Jagur Morgan, Miguel Pabon, Daja Emma Pargo, Natalie Grace Robinson, Ivan Alejandro Rodriguez, Lacey Rena Rogers, Layton Olivia Rogers, Griffin Shultz, Shakeva Marie Washington, Brooke Michaela Weems, Trelby Gipson, Faithe Nakia Hussey, Emma Madalin Hyatt, McKynzie Jones, Gabriel Seth, Harold Pfleger, Laney Shultz, Sidnee Madison Steeland, Braiden Tosh, Emily Foot, Dayonna Moore, and Beyonce Pargo.
Freshmen Academics: Faith Johnson, Arianna Pabon, Shanerika Roland, Allison Prine, Kaycie Seely, Austyn Booth, and Nash Arnett.
National Honor Society Inductees: Seniors- Emily Foot, Jaida Hollingshead, Nicole Holmes, Rebecca Munnerlyn, and Mary Katherine Perry; JuniorsWesley Clayton, Halley Cossey, Emma Hyatt, Kelsey Kinard, Lyndsey Lawman, Yonatan Romero-Dawson, Whitney Sayge, Laney Shultz, Hailey Smith, Cayden Stallings, Sidnee Steeland, and Delaney Wilkerson.
Junior Academics: Gabe Johnson, Sidnee Steeland, Hailey Smith, Delaney Wilkerson, Kelsey Kinard, Maci Bokker, Halley Cossey, and Lyndsey Lawman. Sophomore Academics: Lily Parson, Natalie Robinson, Luke King, Jagur Morgan, Lane Harper, and Ivan Rodriguez.
Outstanding Students of the Year: 7th Grade- Ethan Lisko and Sophie Raper; 8th Grade- Karly Kinard and Forrest Lawless (not pictured); Freshmen- Nash Arnett and Austyn Booth; Sophomores- Lane Harper and Brooke Weems; and Juniors- Wesley Clayton and Kelsey Kinard.
Hornet Awards: Gabe Johnson, Character; Kelsey Kinard, Service; and Whitney Sayger, Leadership.
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