June 22, 2022 edition by heraldpublishing

75¢

Fun days at the local libraries. (See p. 6.)

Volume 121 Number 25 - USPS 225-680

Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Community Calendar of Events Tuesday June 21 Des Arc City Council Meeting Public Hearing 5:00 p.m. City Council meeting follows. Retired Teachers meeting DeValls Bluff Methodist Church 12:00 noon Light lunch will be served. Summer begins! Summer Reading Program at Prairie County Libraries continued until August 31 Thursday June 23 Carlisle Public Library Ocean Commotion Shark Attack 10:00 a.m. Food Distribution Hazen Methodist Church Drive Through 10:00 a.m.-noon DeValls Bluff Public Library Arkansas Game & Fish shows animal pelts 11:00 a.m. Tuesday June 27 Des Arc School Board meeting 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.

The Prairie County Courthouse in DeValls Bluff has undergone a facelift on the second floor of the building. The old oak floors have been stripped, sanded, and refinished, and new furniture was ordered for the courtroom, judge’s office, and jury room. The work was done to national preservation standards using a federal grant for historic buildings. Work is also being done on the Des Arc Courthouse, and pictures of that work will be shown in a future Grand Prairie Herald. Special thanks go to Prairie County Clerk Gaylon Hale who has been overseeing the renovation.

PC Quorum Court discusses finances County Judge Mike Skarda was present for the regular June meeting held on the 14th. He reported on the Hwy. 11 chipseal work, despite higher prices for materials. “We need to watch everything that we do,” he said. Skarda also said that county employees were going to need raises at the end of the year to keep up with inflation. “I’m worried,” he said,

“I look at the numbers and I’m afraid.” Some money will be coming in this year, but Skarda expressed worry about next year. But Budget Committee Chair Lawrence Holloway said, “We look to be right on the mark (for this year). It’s in line.” In new business, the court appropriated money to buy two Durango ordered last

October for the Sheriff’s Department. The money to purchase the vehicles is already in the sheriff’s budget. The vehicles were expected to be delivered in January of 2023, but they came in last week. Justice Paul Hooks asked about the deadline for spending federal PPP money. Skarda said that the county had until 2028 to spend that money. Heating

and cooling systems in both courthouses need to be upgraded to improve air quality, he said. County Treasurer Tamara Dabney reported that “the money should be getting in at the end of this month or next.” County Clerk Gaylon Hale told the justices that the county received a court security grant for $20,000 which was used to pur-

chase two walk-through portals and one hand held metal detector. County Election Commissioner Rita Dobson told the court that early voting has begun, and that voting day is Tuesday, June 22nd. All the justices were present at the meeting except Judy Hinson. County lawyer Abram Skarda was also present.

Hazen City Council approves amended contract The city voted to enter into a contract with A&M Flying Service to provide aerial mosquito abatement this summer. The resolution was passed without an indemnity clause requested by A&M that would make the city responsible for any claims or action that result in bodily injury or property damage unless they are the result of sole negligence of A&M Flying Service. City Attorney Keith Rhodes told the council that the city can’t be responsible by law, and that the clause should not be included. Mayor David Hardke agreed, saying that the Municipal League, which represents and advises Arkansas cities, also advised against the additional clause. If A&M doesn’t agree to the contract without the clause, the city will approach another company that does aerial spraying for Carlisle, Lonoke, and Stuttgart will be contacted. Hardke said that the city will also be employing ground spraying throughout the city twice a week. The Hazen City Council also voted to apply for a fun park grant through the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism at its regular June 16 meeting held at Hazen City Hall. The grant will pay for upgrades to the park which is locat-

ed behind the Hazen Post Office. (For more information, see page 3.) The council voted to make Juneteenth, a federal holiday, a city holiday as well. At least 20 other Arkansas cities are doing this, Hardke said. The council also agreed to compensate city employees covered by the family plan with the Municipal Health Benefit Program. This was done because the city of Hazen has been upgraded to a medical rate class 4 with a $500 deductible. The city was a class 2 in 2021. The present family plan will be $497.12 per month, up from $414.62 in November of 2021, a difference of $82.50. The rate then went up another $49.50 in May of 2022, another $49.50 for a total of $132.00 per employee. The increase will be covered by the city for a total of $1419 per employee. The total cost to the city will be $10,469.67.”We can afford this,” Hardke said. Six employees are on the family plan. In departmental reports, Utility Manager Chad Swaim reported water leaks everywhere, which are being repaired. He also said that a new gas valve has been installed in Carlisle which will stop a leak there. He also announced that Clay Reynolds has been hired as a part-time

The Union Pacific caboose that sits beside the depot in Hazen now has its original markings. The painting was done by KD Graphics in Lonoke. employee and that Adam Bowman has been hired as a fulltime city employee. Swaim said that there is a major sewer collapse under Hwy. 70 at Leslie St. An emergency permit has been obtained to work on the problem. If the cost to the city is more than $50,000, a special meeting will have to be con-

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vened to approve the cost. The sewer is still flowing, but dirt is falling into the pipe, Swaim said. The repair could be as much as 500 to 600 feet of pipe. Fire Chief Seth Skarda reported one truck fire at Loves, two structure fires, and four first responder calls. The city has entered into a mutual aid

agreement with DeValls Bluff, which will be discussed next month. The new DeValls Bluff Police Chief will aid Hazen Police, and the Hazen Police will assist the DeValls Bluff Police Department as needed. The Hazen chief will assign duties as needed with no liability to the city.

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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Williams inducted into Phi Kappa Phi Carrie Bell Harris Carrie Bell Harris, 64 of Biscoe, passed away on Thursday afternoon June 9 at Baptist H e a l t h Medical Center in L i t t l e Rock. Ca r r i e was born March 6, 1958 in Biscoe, Arkansas to Jimmy Payne Sr. and Helen Saxton-Payne. Carrie was a lifelong member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Biscoe. Carrie received her formal education from the Biscoe and DeValls Bluff School Districts. In her earlier years, Carrie was employed by the Acco Corporation in Des Arc, Arkansas. Her husband Frank Harris, her parents: Jimmy Payne and Helen Payne; three brothers: Jimmie Louis Payne, Jerry Payne and Johnny Payne; four sisters: Rudeen Payne, Mary Lou Payne, Quincella Cohen and Bertha Payne a special niece Helen Marie “Winky” Payne all preceded Carrie in death. Survivors are: two daughters: Stacey Cohen of Biscoe, AR; Sharonda Payne of Jacksonville, AR; six grandchildren: Lakeisha Cohen of Stuttgart, AR; Destiny Burton of Lonoke, AR; Orlando Burton IV of Maumelle, AR; Brittany Jones of Little Rock, AR; Shamar Bouie and Kyron Clark of Jacksonville, AR; four great grandchildren; three special nephews she help to raise: Cedric Payne of Biscoe, AR; Keith Payne and Damien Payne both of Conway, AR; two sisters: Queen Ester Walker of Little Rock, AR and Bessie (Raymond) Scott of Biscoe, AR; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation was held on Friday evening June 17

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

from 5 until 7 PM at Branscumb Funeral Home Chapel, 911 North Main Street in Brinkley. Graveside services were held on Saturday June 18 at 10 AM at Harrison Cemetery, Highway 70 East in Biscoe with Reverend Willie Brown officiating. Services provided by Branscumb Johnson & Gilchrest Funeral Home of Brinkley (870) 734-2772 email: branscumbfuneralhome1928@yahoo.com & Facebook: Branscumb Funeral Home Pallbearers were: Raymond Watson, Clinton Payne, Cedric Payne, Keith Payne, Damien Payne, LaQuinton Payne, Reggie Cohen and Jonas Payne.

Rebecca Nell Rogers Patterson Rebecca Nell Rogers Patterson flourished for 100 years until she entered her heavenly home from her earthly home in Biscoe, Arkansas on Sunday, June 19, 2022. Walter and Ruth Rogers welcomed their new baby girl to the family that would eventually number eleven. Later, she met the loved of her life at eighteen, James R. Patterson. They welcomed two children, Patricia Ann and Billy Wayne to the home. She lived as a woman of dignity and virtue demonstrated in her appearance and behavior. She enjoyed interests both in the home and her yard. She invested her life in her home family and her church family proclaiming and living out her faith in Jesus Christ. She is survived by her children, Patricia Ann Parr and Billy Wayne Patterson. Her grandchildren, Clayton Parr (Kim), Tony Patterson (Vickie), Tonya Oxner (Willie), Lori Kelly (Andy) and a host of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and a great multitude of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two grandsons, Paul Alex Parr and Teddy Alton Patterson, and a great number of beloved family members. Services will be at the First Baptist Church in Biscoe with a Tuesday, June 21 visitation from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M.. Her Home going service will be Wednesday, June 22, 2022 at 2:00 o’clock at the church. Burial will follow at the Family Little Hill Cemetery. Services officiated by her pastor, Bro. David Rogers. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, 444 North Dixon Street, Biscoe, Arkansas 72017.

Eva Jean Phifer Eva Jean Phifer was born to Forrest and Libby Horton on June 7,

1934 in Slovak, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jack. On June 15, 1951, she married Earl Brown Phifer and they had four children. The majority of their life together was spent in Stuttgart, Arkansas. When Earl retired, they relocated to his hometown of Hazen, and when his health declined they moved to Memphis, Tennessee to be near family. Jean was active in First Christian Church of Stuttgart, as well as the Arkansas County Home Demonstration Club. She loved golf and vacationing at the lake. She was an excellent cook and seamstress. When she joined the workforce, Jean worked for Dr. Dean Laird as a dental assistant and then as an associate at Majestic Dress Shop, where she and her colleagues became lifelong friends. A loving mother and grandmother, Jean is survived by her four children, Sherry Welch of Lexington, Kentucky; Vicki Hornbeck (Rob) of Jonesboro, Arkansas; Chuck Phifer (Karen) of Flower Mound Texas; and Tracy Gibbs (Steve) of Memphis, Tennessee. She is also survived by grandchildren Matthew Welch, Benjamin Welch and Kathryn Perry; Lucas Hornbeck, Elizabeth Reber, Melanie Esp and David Hornbeck; Jake and Cody Phifer; and Jordan Rorie, Haley Sartor and Rainey Gibbs. In her later years, Jean adored spending time with her 19 great-grandchildren and with the “sister she never had”, Beverly Phifer Wood. Services are pending. Memorials in her name may be sent to the Museum of the Grand Prairie, 921 East 4th Street, Stuttgart, AR 72160.

Marsha Kay Castleberry Snyder Marsha Kay Castleberry Snyder, 71, of Stuttgart passed away Friday, June 17, 2022, from injuries sustained in an autom o b i l e accident. Marsha was born June 19, 1950, in DeValls Bluff to Bedford and Gracie Lee Brooks Castleberry. She was a 1968 graduate of Altheimer High School and was former director of Stuttgart Housing Authority. She was a member of Jacksonville Chapter #520 OES and a former member of Hazen Chapter #5 where she was a Worthy Matron several times. She was active at Stuttgart Senior Citizens and loved flea markets. She was a member of Trinity Assembly of God Church. Besides her parents, she was preceded in

death by brothers, Pete Castleberry and Gene Castleberry; a sister, Doris Downs; and the father of her children, Tony Max Harrison. Survivors are two sons, Kevin Eugene Harrison (Crystal Duke) of Benton and Jimmy Lee Harrison of Stuttgart; two daughters, Rhonda Fields (Chris) of Stuttgart and Stacie Fin ley (Darren) of Malvern; her significant other, John Warnock of Stuttgart; brothers, Brooks Castleberry of DeValls Bluff, Ray Castleberry of Altheimer and Gerald Castleberry of Rose Bud; sister, Charlotte Tipton of Conway; seven grandchildren, Zachary Fields, Lance Fields, Ayshton Finley, Shannon Finley, Meagan Finley, Robert Greer and McKensey Greer; three greatgrandchildren, Thali Gerlatch, River Denton and Lockland Denton; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services, officiated by Bro. Joe Poss, are 10 a.m. Wednesday at DeValls Bluff Cemetery. Visitation is 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Turpin Funeral Home.

Brayden Williams of DeValls Bluff, Arkansas, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Williams was initiated at Arkansas State University. Williams is among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may

also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction. Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 325 campuses in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Its mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others."

THE CITY OF DES ARC AND DES ARC UTILITIES WILL BE FLUSHING LINES ON THE NORTH PRAIRIE COUNTY WATER EXTENSION. CITIZENS SHOULD NOT BE ALARMED TO SEE HYDRANTS FLOWING WATER OR WATER DISCOLORATION.

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS SOUTHERN DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN HENRY BATES, II, DECEASED 59S PR-21-24 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Last Known Address of Decedent: 208 West Adams, Hazen,

Arkansas 72064 Date of Death: July 13, 2021 The undersigned was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of the abovenamed Decedent on May 24, 2022. All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded

from any benefit in the estate. This notice first published this 15th day of June, 2022. JOHN BATES III 139 BROOKLAND ST, APT 3 BROOKLAND, AR 72417 ROBERT M. ABNEY, P.A. ATTORNEY FOR THE ESTATE P O BOX 246 DES ARC, AR 72040 870-256-4183

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL GLENN PINKERTON, DECEASED 59SPR-22-29 Last Known address of Decedent: 319 E. Brinkley St., DeValls Bluff, AR 72041 Date of Death: April 22, 2022 On June 7, 2022, an Affidavit for Collection

of Small Estate by Distributee was filed with respect to the estate of Daniel Glenn Pinkerton, deceased, with the clerk of the probate division of the Circuit Court of Prairie County, Arkansas, under Ark. Code Ann. § 28-41-101. All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, properly verified, to the distributee or his or her attorney within three (3) months from

the date of the first publication of this notice or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit of the estate. The name, mailing address and telephone number of the distributee’s attorney is J. Michael Stuart Stuart Law Firm, P.A. P.O. Box 206 Lonoke, AR 72086 (501) 676-5500 This notice first published on the 15th day of June, 2022.

Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, June 22, 2022

CHS hosts Prospects’ Camp, Carlisle Board hires staff By Debbye Harrison

Mayor’s Assistant Tracie Vail (far right) addresses local parents to ask for suggestions about renovations to the Hazen Play Park.

Hazen to apply for grant The City of Hazen held a public meeting to discuss the application for a parks grant to improve the Play Park. Mayoral Assistant Tracie Vail asked for community input regarding the renovation of the Hazen Play Park located behind the post office. The grant, which can be as much as $100,000 will allow the city to replace some of the present equipment and make the park more handicap a c c e s s i b l e .

Improvements include replacing the pea gravel with mulch, and adding concrete pathways. Central Arkansas Planning and Development (CAPDD) and the Arkansas Parks and Tourism Department will be involved with the processing of the grants. Improvements include providing some concrete parking space and a sidewalk to the park. The city intends to replace the times that

define the park and add swings for toddlers and a teeter totter for wheelchairs. The city also wants to add other new equipment, The grant does not require matching funds from the city. Parents of some of the city’s children made suggestions about equipment.There will be a site evaluation on July 18. The city also intends to move the play park in Hazen’s City Park East closer to the pavilion area in August.

S’More fun with EHC By Amanda Stark Prairie County Extension Homemakers recently met for “S’More Fun” at the Prairie County Fairgrounds. The ladies met to fill S’More Bags for foster families in Lonoke and Prairie County for The Call. Each summer The Call takes donations for S’More Bags to give foster families a fun summer activity. This year the Prairie County Extension Homemakers provided S’More Bags for all 30 foster families. Seven of our EHC ladies helped fill the bags and several sent donations to help with the cost. Each bag contained a

bag of marshmallows, a box of graham crackers and Hershey chocolate bars. After filling all the bags, the EHC member enjoyed ice cream with s’more toppings and played bingo. It was a great opportunity to server out community and have fellowship with members across the county. The Call is a non-profit organization that mobilizes local churches to serve local children and youth placed in foster care. They provide a way for Christians to invite the mission field into their homes, to serve those most vulnerable in their communi-

ties. The CALL partners with the Division of Children and Family Services to recruit, train and support foster and adoptive families for children and teens in foster care. Our hope is to see a day where there are no children in Arkansas waiting for families. Because what children and youth in foster care need most is a family to care for them as they heal from abuse or neglect. The Extension Homemakers is a volunteer organization that offers its members opportunities for education, leadership development and community service. For more information on Extension Homemakers contact Emilee Moody at 870998-2614.

Talented softball players from around the area have been invited to show their skills at the Carlisle Prospects’ Camp on June 22. Scouts will be evaluating each girl’s skills with the potential of a college scholarship. Schools that will be sending scouts are: (Division I) Ohio State, Mississippi State, University of Memphis, University of Louisville, University of Arkansas and University of Central Arkansas; (NAIA) Williams Baptist; and Division II) Ouachita Baptist, Arkansas Tech, and Southern Arkansas University. These college programs have also been involved in organizing the Youth Camp which worked with players from grades 3-7 on two afternoons last week. In other business, it was reported that teachers and administrators will be focusing their professional development on Professional Learning Communities (PLC) throughout the

summer. This is in preparation for the 50 on-campus visits by various PLC trainers from around the country that are scheduled during the school year. Part of the PLC training will include a three-day institute on July 6-8. Two announcements brought positive responses from the School Board. The school year ended with money in the food service account, and the school had an excellent state audit. Following an executive session, the following resignations were approved: Austin Malnar, elementary teacher; Brooke Jackson, elementary teacher; Shane Wright, elementary teacher and high school coach; Shirley Bryant, food service worker; and Keely Roberts, Administrative Assistant and Board Secretary. The following classified personnel were hired: Kari Sayger, full-time Food Service and Nutrition Director and Wyoma Metcalf, ISS Director.

The following certified personnel were hired: Mitchell Bradford, Jr., Spanish and ESOL Interventionist; Melanie Angell, high school English; Gage Johnson, high school Science and coach; Kelsi King, high school Literacy Facilitator; Carly Bokker, high school Agri teacher; Sydney Reid, high school Art teacher; Courtney Thrift, elementary teacher; Hannah Hamric, elementary teacher; and Ashley Campbell, elementary teacher. The Board also voted to give a retroactive stipend for the District Level Testing Coordinator of $1,500 and stipends for the two Building Level Testing Coordinators of $750 each. In addition, a $2,000 stipend will be paid to the two building registrars with job descriptions to be discussed later. The Board also approved a transfer from a student coming into the Carlisle district from England.

Locals on UALR scholar list UA Little Rock announces its Spring 2022 Chancellor's List, recognizing students with superior academic performance in a semester. To be eligible for the

Chancellor's List, students must earn at least nine credit hours and at least a 3.9 GPA. Local students who made the UA Little Rock Chancellor's List are:

Cory Gibson of Des Arc, and Virgil Griffin of DeValls Bluff, AR More than 615 UA Little Rock students were named to the Chancellor's List for the spring 2022 semester.

Slovak Lutheran Cemetery Donations Slovak Lutheran Cemetery Donations are: In memory of Paul Marek: Mr. & Mrs. Don Vaught Geneva Chlapecka Lori Marek Doug Marek In memory of Paul & Emily Havlik: Sue Havlik Hein Upkeep:

Mr. & Mrs. William Griffin III Geneva Chlapecka

Mail donations to PO Box 224, Hazen, AR 72064

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS SOUTHERN DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JANET CHARLENE KNOX, deceased CASE NO. 59SPR-22-2 NOTICE

GRAND PRAIRIE RICE FESTIVAL MEETING NOTICE The Hazen Chamber of Commerce will host a meeting on Monday, June 27, at 6:00 p.m. in the BancorpSouth Community Room to discuss whether or not to continue the Grand Prairie Rice Festival. Anyone interested in starting the festival back up and working with planning and finding vendors and entertainment should attend. Work needs to begin early in July for a successful festival. Call the Hazen Mayor’s office at 255-4521 for more information.

Last known address of decedent: 808 Hwy. 86W, Stuttgart, AR 72160 Date of Death: August 29, 2021 The undersigned was a p p o i n t e d Administratrix of the above-named estate on the 10th day of March, 2022. All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to

the undersigned within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate. Claims for injury or death caused by the negligence of the decedent shall be filed within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of the notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded

from any benefit in such estate. This notice first published the 15th day of June, 2022. Kerry Longnecker, Administratrix c/o Dennis R. Molock Molock Law Firm, P.A. Attorney for the Estate 300 W. 3rd / P. O. Box 92 Stuttgart, AR 72160 Estates\knox.janet.noti ce

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF WOODRUFF COUNTY, ARKANSAS PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE NATHANIEL PALTON, DECEASED NO. 59PR-2022-30 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The Decedent, Nathaniel Palton, whose last known address was 9428 Palton Road, Biscoe, Arkansas 72017, died on September 17, 2020. An Affidavit for Collection of a Small Estate by Distributees, was filed with the Court on June 9, 2022. All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned within

three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate. This notice first published June 22, 2022. John W. Martin Attorney for Distributees P.O. Box 472 Brinkley, AR 72021 870-734-1787

Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Work begins on WRID’s Canal 2000 system By Leigh VanHouten The White River Irrigation District (WRID) has begun dirt work to continue its canal system. Topsoil removal began on Canal 2000 on May 31 in Prairie County near Old Highway 70 road. Once the topsoil stripping was completed, on June 17, the Core Trench was started, and canal excavation and earth fill began and continues. This section of canal work is located East of Highway 63 between Hazen and DeValls Bluff and will run for approximately two miles. The entire project, once complete, will bring water to area farmers in portions of Prairie, Arkansas, Lonoke and Monroe Counties. “What we are doing now is working on each segment and getting crossing designs finalized, updated with any changes we come across,” Charlotte Bowie, with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), explained of the process to break down each section. WRID is fully funded for the first 12 miles of construction after a vote of approval from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture (ADA). The ADA commission members voted in favor of the $26 million loan through the Arkansas Natural Resource Commission (ANRC) in January. “This funding is a loan and will be used to match $48 million of

NRCS funding already approved. This means we are fully funded for the first 12 miles of canal started just west of DeValls Bluff and ending at the Hazen airport,” WRID Director and Chief Engineer Dennis Carman explained. Along with Canal 2000, segment No. Seven, which is described as running West from Highway 63 to Woodlawn Avenue near Hazen has been approved for construction plans. “We just received that one back from review. We are looking at getting that one so that it should be ready to go. We are skipping around Halls Crossing simply because that one is a lot more complicated. We are trying to get that 100 percent ready to go so,” Bowie said. Other recent work includes the Downs Road crossing, which is located just north of Highway 70 near DeValls Bluff. This work was done in what WRID describes as the Canal 1000 portion of project. The Canal 1000 dirt work was completed in December. The current work at Downs Road will tie into the Canal 1000 and reroute traffic over the canal portion of the project. There are five rows of the concrete culverts with 13 boxes per row, 65 total. “Two more county road crossing designs are being completed by Michael Baker I n t e r n a t i o n a l Engineers, and state

winter when we can’t move dirt.” WRID is excited about the continued progress. They continue to work on future construction plans to see the project make its way to the Hazen Airport.

Map of construction phases Highway 63 and 70 crossings are being evaluated for box culverts rather than bridges. We believe changing from the current bridge concept to box culverts will be easier to maintain and save significant money,” WRID Director and Chief Engineer Dennis Carman said. Tony Stevenson, WRID engineer, says 80 percent of the work is complete on the Downs Road crossing. “They are down to moving dirt. We are shooting for the end of June on completion. I don’t know if we will make it or not, but we should be really close,” Stevenson explained saying weather has been the only factor

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS NORTHERN DISTRICT IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY JOE KIRBY, DECEASED 59N PR-22-15 NOTICE Last known address: 10702 Highway 323, Des Arc, AR 72040. On June 10, 2022, and

Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate by a distribute was filed with respect to the Estate of Billy Joe Kirby, deceased, with the Clerk of the Probate Division of the circuit court of Prairie County, Arkansas under ARK Code. Ann 28-41-101. The property listed is real property and personal effects. All persons having claims against must exhibit them, property

verified, to the court within three (3) months from the date of first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate. This notice will be published on June 22, 2022. The name and address of the distribute is stated below. Margarette Foster 8123 Highway 5 N Alexander, AR 72002

HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2022 SUMMER REGULAR & CRISIS INTERVENTION Starting on Monday, July 11, 2022, Mid-Delta Community Services, Inc. will be accepting Applications for the 2022 Summer Regular & Crisis Home Energy Assistance Programs in Phillips, Lee, Monroe, and Prairie Counties until funds are depleted. These funds will provide a one-time assistance to low-income eligible households with electricity only. Applicants must provide the following when submitting an application that apply to the Previous Month: • Name, Age, Birthdate, Social Security Card for ALL Household Members. A printed copy of both Gas and Electric Bill. Proof of Income from Prior Month: Check Stubs (showing PAY DATE, not the pay period), SSI, SSA Award Letter, Unemployment Statement, Retirement, VA Pension, TEA, Alimony, and Utility Allowance. ID or document which establishes identity such as an Arkansas Driver's License, Medical ID, Birth Certificate. Applications will be processed on a first come first serve basis. Applicants may contact their local Community Centers shown below with questions: PRAIRIE COUNTY DeValls Bluff Community Center Sycamore & Ash Streets DeValls Bluff, AR (870)998-2005 Applications will be accepted Monday through Thursday starting at 9 AM. Des Arc Housing Authority 505 S 2nd Street Des Arc, AR (870)256-4577 Applications will be accepted Fridays 8AM – 11:00 AM

when it comes to completing the work. “We got the culverts being delivered for the Old Highway 70 crossing that will be put in this

“We are getting dirt, pipes and crossings delivered. We have this simplified down to contracts and are on track to make needed adjustments in the future. We can get this done on time and under budget, because we are able to control our cost to a certain extent,” Carman said. “When completed this work will serve about 50,000 acres of irrigated crop land. This is exciting. We have worked a long time to get to this point. Now we have to deliver a construction project in the field.” The WRID will be holding neighborhood “shop meetings” over the next couple months to help explain the

schedule and answer questions from the public. Individuals can find information regarding the time and dates of those meeting by following the WRID on Facebook at www.facebook.com/White-RiverIrrigation-District “Another milestone on this long journey to bring sustainable water to the Grand Prairie,” WRID Board of Directors President Dan Hooks said. “We are enjoying the support, cooperation and guidance from our partners, ANRC, NRCS, Army Corps of Engineers and others as we continue to meet our goal of providing water that is affordable to the farmers. We are farmers working for farmers and we are succeeding.” Prior work includes a pump station, 7,500 feet of twin 10-foot diameter pipelines and the regulating reservoir constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS NORTHERN DISTRICT IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VELMA ELIZABETH PRINE, DECEASED 59S PR-22-31 NOTICE Last known address is 663 Downs Rd., DeValls Bluff, AR 72041. On June 10, 2022, and

Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate by a distribute was filed with respect to the Estate of Velma Elizabeth Prine, deceased, with the Clerk of the Probate Division of the circuit court of Prairie County, Arkansas under ARK Code. Ann 28-41-101. The property listed is real property and personal effects. All persons having claims against must exhibit them, property

verified, to the court within three (3) months from the date of first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate. This notice published on June 2, 2022. The name and address of the distribute is stated below. Archie Prine 2306 Shady Grove Rd. Stuttgart, AR 72160

Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, June 22, 2022

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To Whom It May Concern: A 2010 Chevy 1500 Vin# 3GCRCTE0XAG205900 was picked up on 3-2722 at the EB 200 mile marker under White River bridge on 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 prior-

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

To Whom It May Concern: A 2002 Yamaha Mc Vin# J4ARJ04E32A019824 was picked up on 5-82022 at the 201 mile marker 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 prior-

Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Learning about dinosaurs, making bookmarks at libraries The Prairie County Libraries have been hosting programs for the young and young at heart throughout the summer. Magic Mr. Nick’s Dinosaur Crew were at the Hazen City Park at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 13, to introduce a fiveyear-old, 12 foot long, 2000 pound velociraptor named “Spike.” The Dinosaur Crew then traveled to the front lawn of the Des Arc library and presented another program at 2:30 p.m. Then on Thursday, June 16, The White River Museum representative taught children and adults about the ancient art of loom weaving, and everyone made their own bookmark to take home. The DeValls Bluff Library will also host a presentation of real animal pelts given by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The event will be held on Thursday, June 23, at 11:00 a.m.

Carlisle’s public library has fun programs for all ages By Autumn Strode The Carlisle Library’s Summer Reading Program is off to a great start, and they still have two weeks left. The programs are averaging between 30-50 kids each. The children's programs are on Mondays at 2:00 p.m., Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Thursdays at 10:00 a.m., and Fridays at 2:00 p.m. During our Kid's Cooking Club program, the kids made "ocean water ice cream" in a bag. They love pouring in their ingredients and shaking their bags until the ice cream forms. Most of all, they love eating it! In Creation Station, the kids do cool underwater crafts. Week one was "mason jar aquariums", which turned out amazing, and the kids had a blast! Week two they made "sand art" in

bottles, where the kids got to choose their colors and layer the sand. Pamper Yourself is an adult program, and the ladies enjoyed making "mermaid bath bombs." Ocean Commotion is our weekly outdoor water game program. Week one we played a game called "underwater races", which is a relay race to see which team can move water from one bucket to another the fastest using a sponge, but they have to carry the sponge on their heads! We ended up playing round after round after round because the kids loved it so much! Week two, we utilized the splash pad and played "toe diving". I set out small plastic fish and other aquatic animals on the pad, and the kids had to pick them up with their toes and carry them back to their buckets. It was much more difficult for some of them than I pre-

dicted, but they had so much fun and it was pretty entertaining to watch! We also have movies every Friday where we provide popcorn! Attendees will be painting rocks to look like the ocean on 06/21,

playing a game with water balloons on 06/23, and making ocean slime on 06/27. The library also hosts Storytime on Tuesdays at 10:00 am, and their genealogy program will be held on Monday, 06/27 at 9:00 am.