State
Police give report on stand
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. —
On Friday, July 26, 2024, Arkansas State Police (ASP) Colonel Mike Hagar and U.S. Attorney Jonathon Ross briefed the media on the latest developments related to a 4-hour standoff that occurred on Thursday, July 25, 2024, in DeValls Bluff, which resulted in the death of fugitive suspect Darrell Lawayne Esau II, 32, of Little Rock. The U.S. Marshals Service had been searching for Esau for over a year and a half. Esau was wanted on multiple felony warrants out of Little Rock, Sherwood and Pulaski County, and was being sought as an absconder by the Arkansas Division of Community Correction (ACC). Active warrants included multiple counts of First-Degree Battery, multiple counts of Terrorist Act, Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons, Aggravated Residential Burglary, and Domestic Battery. Esau had previously been convicted of homicide charges. Agents from ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) determined Esau’s whereabouts on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. The U.S.
H a z en
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The Hazen School Board held its regular meeting on Monday, July 15, with all members and Superintendent Andy Barrett present.
The main order of business was to look at plans for district upgrades should the millage pass in November.
Brandon Ruhl from Taggart Architects handed out drawings that showed options for a new agri building, upgrades for the high school’s lower hallway classrooms, the building of a new preschool building, and the rebuilding of the fieldhouse at the football field. In one option, the agri building would also house the science and art classes. Or the agri building could be built for agri only behind the high school, and the lower hall classrooms would be rebuilt where they are.
The new fieldhouse would separate the junior high athletes from the senior high. The building would be 10,000 square feet and would cost the district $325 per square foot for a total of approximately $3 million. The board told Ruhl that a tape room and the storage room in the plan were not necessary.
The Arkansas State Police SWAT team and the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, along with the Hazen Police Department, the Prairie County Sheriff’s Office, the Des Arc Police Department, and the Arkansas Division of Community Correction participated in a four hour standoff in DeValls Bluff on Thursday, July 25. (Picture and story courtesy of the ASP.)
Marshals Service
Fugitive Task Force, which includes ASP personnel, went with additional Troopers to the DeValls Bluff address in an attempt to take Esau into custody around 9 a.m. Thursday. The suspect opened fire on the team when they arrived. ASP’s SWAT, Crisis Negotiation, Tactical/Air Support and Drone teams were activated. ASP personnel contacted Esau by phone and
attempted to negotiate his surrender for over two and a half hours. Esau died after an exchange of gunfire with members of the ASP SWAT team.
Investigators have determined that Esau fired at least 169 rounds from six different weapons, which included fully automatic and high-powered rifles, commonly referred to as “assault weapons.” More than 400 rounds were
exchanged between the suspect and law enforcement. ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division will lead the investigation, the FBI will assist with evidence recovery and the ATF will process the weapons for further analysis.
“This is just one more example of local, state, and federal partners working together for the overall mission of keeping the citizens of Arkansas safe,” said
The preschool plans had two options, the first to tear down the schools’ administration building on Hazen Avenue and build the preschool there or to tear down the HIPPY building and building there. The new building would have four classrooms or a multi-purpose room plus three classrooms. The preschool presently has
ASP Director Col. Mike Hagar. “I would like to take this opportunity to remind our citizens that we are YOUR Arkansas State Police. We want you to know that law enforcement operations are conducted daily in the most rural parts of Arkansas, including a town like DeValls Bluff, which has a population of 500. We thank God no innocent civilians or law enforcement officers were injured due to the collective resources applied. Our sole mission is and always will be public safety. We are committed to keeping our citizens safe and will always put your safety above our own.” U.S. Marshal Cory Harris; Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Kevin Sanders (both for the Eastern District of Arkansas); and Supervisory Special Agent Clayton Merrill from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives participated in the briefing. Other assisting agencies included Hazen Police Department, Prairie County Sheriff’s Office, Des Arc Police Department and the ACC. (ASP press release.)
h ool Board plans for m illage increase
over 40 students and a waiting list. The board also wants the back of the old gymnasium renovated, which will cost about $150 per square foot. The plans for the cafetorium, which would cost $200,000, have been put on the back burner.
Barrett told the board that work is being done on the gym lobby floor, and that the electrical wiring at the football field is ongoing. There are now three sponsors for the scoreboard, and fencing has been put at the top of all of the bleachers for a cost of $15,000. There are also plans for a new ticket booth and new black fencing at the field. Barrett also told the board that the parking lots had been striped, and he wants to have a work day for the elementary playground. There were no principal reports due to out of town professional development. Barrett gave a report on the Build Program, which focuses on kindergarten and first grade literacy. Test scores showed 100% growth for the first semester in reading and also showed tier growth in 18% of the students.
The LEARNS Act requires that students who do not read on
grade level by the end of the third grade must be retained. This affects this year’s second graders. Cassandra Sims is in charge of K-3 literacy. In other business, the board approved the superintendent’s recommendation to use Sysco as the district’s food service suppliers for the coming year. The board also agreed to purchase milk from Hiland Dairy Foods and to buy cleaning supplies from C&S Cleaning Supply Co. Two students were accepted as legal transfers from the Clarendon
School District. The board agreed to meet in a special meeting on Monday, July 22, to continue to discuss building plans. The next regular meeting will be held on Monday, August 12. Special Meeting
At a special meeting of the Hazen School Board held on Monday, July 22, members of the board voted to ask for a 7.5 mil increase in the election that will be held in November. The present millage, which is 33.83 mils, would be raised to 41.33 mils which would cover the
costs of building a new pre-k building, an agriculture building, new high school high school classrooms in the lower hallway, a new Family and Consumer Science (FACS) classroom and lab, renovation of the high science rooms, the renovation of the old gym to build a girls’ weight room, and to build a new fieldhouse at the football field. Representatives of Taggart Architects presented the board with four building options on which to spend the money raised by the new millage. The four options ranged from a cost of $8,830,125 and $10,300,125. In the end, the board decided for Option C and against building a two-story Career and Technical Education (CTE) building that would have housed Agriculture, FACS, and Art and would have cost $2,945,000, for just a one-story building housing Agriculture only (Continued on p. 2)
Des Arc Library hosts “Foam Day.” (See p. 6.)
Rebecca Jean Bryant Anderson
Rebecca Jean Bryant Anderson left this world for her heavenly home on Monday, July 22, 2024. She was born on August 24, 1955 to E. Wayne Bryant and Barbara Heavener Bryant in South Bend, Indiana. Known to her close friends as "Becky", she grew up mostly in Des Arc. She was a guiding light to those around her, always sharing her love of God with others. Some of her favorite memories were the years she spent in Mexico with her family doing mission work. She married Richard (Ricky) Anderson in 1973 and they began building their lives together. They had three children, which they raised in Brinkley. Family and friends were blessed to hear Becky's beautiful voice for many years when she sang in church, and all who knew her were blessed by her loving and peaceful spirit. Besides "Momma", her other favorite titles were being "Ganny" and "Nanghee" to her grandchildren. They were all the joy of her life. Becky was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, her sister Karen [Dave] Harbor, and her brother David [Angie] Bryant. She leaves behind her son Patrick [Joni] Anderson of Moro, Heather [Steve] Bline of
Russellville, and daughter Carmen [Steven] Johnson of Hazen; her grandchildren Sierra [Chris] Gardner, Autumn Self, Lexi [Naaman] Fryer. Kolbie Anderson, Gabriel Johnson, Faith Johnson, Layna Bline, and Abby Anderson; a great grandson Dean Fryer; her sister Debbie [Doug} Heston; and a host of family and friends.There was a visitation at 2 p.m. followed by a celebration of her life at 3 p.m. at Family Christian Fellowship in Hazen on Sunday, July 28. After the services, loved ones will be welcome to join the family at a graveside service at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Brinkley.
Kevin Eugene
Phillips
daughter, Beth (Mike) Butler, of Mountain Home; his brother, Donnie (Pat) Dunn, of Chicago, Illinois; grandchildren, Tiffany and Marc; great grandchildren, Kaleb, and Trent; a host of relatives; and many friends.
Jon is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Evelyn, his three daughters, Cynthia Hayes, Julie Shaw, and Donna Manuel.
A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at the Pepper’s Lake Church of Christ with Bro. Kenny Alexander officiating. Burial will be in Pepper’s Lake Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Doty Southside Funeral Service of Southside, Arkansas.
Beckett Lawson helps local dog shelter...
Eight year old Beckett Lawson of Hazen, Arkansas came up with his own idea of how he could raise money to help the local shelter foster and rescue dogs. He set up his own lemonade stand and sold enough lemonde to buy four big bags of dog food for the dogs. Beckett delivered the dog food personally to Friends of Hazen Shelter to help.
Arkansas Press Association
Member 2023
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
Correspondent
Lisa Mills
Correspondent
Debbye Harrison
Photographer Ruth Corley
Kevin Eugene Phillips, age 53 of Carlisle left this earth Sunday, July 21, 2024. Kevin was born on March 24, 1971 to Leslie Wayne and Phyllis Pruitt Phillips. He was preceded in death by his father, Leslie Wayne. He is survived by his mother, Phyllis of Carlisle; brother, Kenneth of Carlisle; sister, Lisa Craig and husband, Dale of Waterford, Mississippi; 5 nieces and nephews; 9 great nieces, nephews and too many loved ones and friends to count. There was a a graveside service Thursday, July 25, at 2:30 P.M., at the Center Point Cemetery at 2997 Center Point Road in Hazen, Arkansas. Pallbearers were Tad Herrington, Jake Herrington, John Crofford, Hugh Tubbes, Dale Craig and Kenny Underwood. Services will be by Bro. Jim Byrum.
Margaret McMullen
Jonathan Lynn Dunn
Friends of Hazen Shelter said, “Beckett you are an amazing young man, and we really do appreciate that you took the time and your own money to help care for these fur babies, We are so blessed to have young guys like you that care so much to help.”
Hazen School Board__________________ (Continued from p. 1)
which will cost one million dollars less. The renovation of the high school’s lower hallway and science rooms will cost $1,802,500, and the construction of two new classrooms and a FACS lab where the portable building is presently located would cost $1,746,000. The cost of building a new pre-K (which will be built directly north of the third middle school building) will cost $1,812,000; the old gym renovation will cost $239,875; a new fieldhouse would cost $2,031,250. The total cost for the 37,135 square feet is believed to be $9,553,625. Each mil
is expected to pay for $1.5 million in construction according to Michael McBride, who works for Stevens. The district has approximately $1 million in its building fund at this time. There was also some question as to how the district will continue to pay for the raised
teacher salaries. The hope is that the extra illage will pay for that as well. At the end of the meeting, the board voted to extend the contract of Taylor Morphis, who will teach math and coach, and to hire Ashley Elliot as an elementary paraprofessional.
Jonathan Lynn Dunn, 81, of DeValls Bluff, departed this life on Monday, July 22, 2024. He was born on August 30, 1942 in Paducah, Kentucky, to Clifford and Mae Francis Farmer Dunn.
Jon worked for Alcoa Industries for over thirty-two years as a supervisor. After his retirement from Alcoa he drove a long haul truck for Salmon Postal Contractors out of Little Rock for over fifteen years.
He and Evelyn Mae Parr were married on April 7, 1984 and they enjoyed over thirty six years of marriage until her death on August 13, 2022. He was a member of Pepper’s Lake Church of Christ.
Jon loved Corvette cars the best and enjoyed collecting guns and knives as a hobby. He is survived by his
Margaret McMullen, 97, of Hazen entered into eternity with her Lord on July 27, 2024. Margaret was born to Emil and Ida Teichman in Michigan on June 24, 1927. Margaret was married to the love of her life Bud McMullen for 42 years. Their life together was the definition of love and commitment. She loved the Lord with all her heart and showed that devotion in every part of her life. She was the happiest when she was surrounded by her kids and grandkids; if she wasn’t spending time with family, she was holding down the bingo table. Her sense of humor could not be matched, even until the end of her days. You could always count on her to give it to you straight. She will be dearly missed by all who loved her most. Margaret was one of the oldest members of Calvary Baptist Church in Hazen, she loved her church family dearly, but most of all, she loved the Lord.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 42 years, Buddie Lee McMullen; three brothers; and two sisters.
Margaret is survived by her four children, Susan (Larry) Anthony, Emil (Patsy) McMullen, April (Rick) Hickman, and Tracie(Tim) Vail; her five grandchildren, Heather (Andy) Neel, Scott (Jody) Anthony, Cortney (Brittney) Kocourek, Blake (Sydney) Vail, and Cameron (Alex) Vail; eight great grandchildren; and one greatgreat-granddaughter.
Services for Margaret will be Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at Calvary Baptist Church in Hazen with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM, funeral services to follow at 2:00 PM. Interment following in Centerpoint Cemetery North of Hazen, Arkansas.
PUBLIC RELEASE
AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS
SCHOOL YEAR 2024-2025
The following school districts in Prairie County; Des Arc and Hazen School District have announced their policy for providing free and reduced price meals for children served under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Each school district’s Central Office has a copy of the policy, which may be reviewed by any interested party. The price charged for a paid student breakfast is: Des Arc $2.00 and Hazen $2.25. The price charged for a paid student lunch is: Des Arc $2.75 and Hazen $1.25.
HOUSEHOLD APPLICATIONS
The household size and income criteria identified below will be used to determine eligibility for free and reducedprice benefits for SY 2024-2025. Children from households whose income is at or below the levels shown are eligible for free or reduced price meals.
Household application forms are being distributed by the school with a letter informing households of the availability of free and reduced price meals for their children. Only one application should be submitted for each household. Applications are also available at the principal’s office in each school. To apply for free or reduced price meals, households must complete the application and return it to the school. Applications cannot be approved unless it contains complete information as described in the instructions provided with the application. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year as circumstances change. The information households provide on the application will be used for the purpose of determining eligibility and verification of data. Applications may be subject to verification at any time during the school year by school officials.
CATEGORICAL ELIGIBILITY
Children who are members of a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly food stamps, households are categorically eligible for free meals. School officials will determine eligibility for free meals based on documentation obtained directly from the SNAP office. School officials will notify households of their eligibility.
Households who are notified of their eligibility but who do not want their children to receive free meals must contact the school. SNAP households should complete an application if they are not notified of their eligibility by August 13, 2024 for Des Arc and August 14, 2024 for Hazen.
Households with children who are members of currently approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, formerly food stamps, may submit an application with abbreviated information as described in the application instructions.
Children who are enrolled in Head Start / Even Start programs are categorically eligible for free meals. Contact Beth Calhoun at 870-256-4166 for Des Arc and Amanda Whitney at 870-998-7071 for Hazen with questions regarding Head Start / Even Start meal benefits.
Children certified as migrant, homeless or runaway by the district are categorically eligible for free meals. Contact Jamie Eans at 870-256-4166 for Des Arc and Cindy Ciganek at 870-255-4549 with questions regarding migrant, homeless or runaway meal benefits.
Foster children who are the legal responsibility of a welfare agency or court are also eligible for benefits regardless of the income of the household with whom they reside. Eligibility for the foster child is based on the child being the legal responsibility of a welfare agency or court. An application for a household that includes both foster children and nonfoster must be completed for eligibility to be determined for the non-foster children. Contact Rachel Ladner at 870-256-4164 for Des Arc and Amber Edge at 870-255-4547 for Hazen with questions regarding foster children.
Children in households that receive WIC may be eligible for benefits. An application must be completed for determination of eligibility. If a household member becomes unemployed during the school year, the household may be eligible for free or reduced price meals PROVIDED that the loss of income causes the household income to be within the eligibility criteria. An application should be completed for determination of eligibility benefits.
Under the provisions of the free and reduced price meal policy the listed official will review applications and determine eligibility at: Des ArcLana Leggett at 870-256-4166 and Hazen - Katie Reynolds at 870-2551222.
Parents or guardians dissatisfied with the ruling of the determining official may wish to discuss the decision with the determining official on an informal basis. Parents wishing to make a formal appeal for a hearing on the decision may make a request to: Dr. Marc Sherrell at 870-256-4164 for Des Arc and Andy Barrett at 870-255-4549 for Hazen. A household may SUBMIT an application ANYTIME DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR.
Nondiscrimination Statement:
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits.
Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 6329992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) Fax: 202-690-7442; or (3) Email: program.intake@usda.gov
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
E agles w orki
n g har d this
s umm er f or 2024 seaso n
By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor
The Des Arc Eagles are working hard this summer in preparation for the 2024 football season.
Third-year coach Brandon Barbaree said his team has a chance to be pretty good this year.
“We’ve had several team camps, going to Stuttgart and Clarendon to Beebe,” he said.
“We’ve played in two 7on-7 tournaments in England and Poyen.
“We’ve completed a lot this summer and had a good summer. We’ve had really good attendance. It’s been a really solid summer for us.”
The Eagles currently have 31 players coming to summer practice.
“That’s most I’ve had in
probably 20 years,” Barbaree said. “It’s a really solid senior class. We’ve got 11 seniors. They’ve been with me the whole time. It’s just different for us. We’ve got three good classes coming at the same time.”
Barbaree had some health issues during the spring.
“They just kept showing up, doing what they are supposed to do,” he said. “It’s just a different group of kids. Their mindset … they don’t want to let you down.
That’s really important in this day and age. They are hard workers and do exactly what we want them to do.”
The Eagles will scrimmage the Lonoke
Jackrabbits on Aug. 22 at James B. Abraham Stadium in Lonoke. They open the season Sept. 6 at Hazen. It will be the Hornets second game as they open the season Aug. 30 at Conway Christian.
“I think it’s a good thing,” Barbaree said of playing in Week 1 as opposed to Week 0.
“We’ll get to test ourselves against Lonoke. They’ve got a really good sophomore class and will put us in some situations. Then we’ll have a little time off to prepare for Hazen after that, get healthy and get the bumps and bruises out of the way. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Des Arc hires girls’ basketball coach
By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor
The Des Arc Lady Eagles have a new girls basketball coach.
Zakk Knoerr was hired by the Des Arc School District on Thursday night, replacing Chris Brown, who left after one year to become a junior high girls basketball coach in northwest Arkansas.
Knoerr is a recent graduate of Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. He is a 2014 graduate of Clinton High School.
“I went to Clinton for school pretty much my whole life,” Knoerr said. “I graduated from Arkansas Tech in December. This is my
first official coaching job.”
Knoerr’s degree is in health and physical education.
“It seems like a great opportunity,” Knoerr said of being hired at Des Arc. “They’ve got a really great staff and a great administration. Everyone I’ve talked to so far has been supportive. I had a shootaround yesterday [Friday] with some of the girls. The parents seem really awesome and supportive as well.”
Knoerr said he’s got a lot of passion for coaching basketball.
“I hope we can get things rolling pretty quickly here in Des Arc,” he said.
Des Arc athletic director Brandon Barbaree said Brown did a good job in his one year at Des Arc after several years at Lonoke.
“I thought he did a really solid job of working with our girls,” Barbaree said. “He set some expectations. He’s young and wanting to move up and get back closer to his family.” Barbaree said Knoerr had volunteer coached in Conway and Morrilton. “He’s young and excited,” Barbaree said. “He seems to be doing a solid job for the three days that I’ve had him here. He’s really trying to make a relationship with the kids.”
Des Arc S chool B oar d
acce p ts resig n atio n, hires
By Lisa Mills
The DA School Board held their monthly meeting on July 22. The resignation of Girls’ Basketball Coach Chris Brown was accepted. The board approved the employment of Special Education Aide Rebecca Walters, 2nd grade longterm sub Julia Hasley, and 4th grade long-term sub Leigh Garth. Changes to the handbooks for 2024-2025
were approved. High School Principal B.J. Paschal reported that the only major change for High School is that the two college visit days will now include Juniors, as well as Seniors. Elementary Principal Cheryl Holland reported that the only major changes for Elementary are that afternoon pickup time will be 3:15, and nap mats have been removed from the kindergarten supply list since they will no longer be taking naps. Property and vehicle insurance was approved for 2024-2025. The cost has been reduced to $97,598. Other items approved for the new school year included recurring electronic transfers of funds, and personnel/model policies. Assets for the 20232024 school year were retired, and the proposed budget of expenditures for 2025-2026 was approved.
Des Arc’s Dayvion Bell tries to get away from EPC defenders during action last season. (Amanda Smith photo)
Getting ready for tax season...
The members of the Prairie County Equalization Board (BOE) (pictured left to right: Pam DelGiorno, Jimmy Shelman, and James Gray) attended the state Equalization Board meeting on Tuesday, July 23, in the Commerce Building in Little Rock. They attended learning sessions throughout the day.
According to the Arkansas Assessment Coordination Department, County BOEs serve a vital and integral role in the property tax system in Arkansas. They have two responsibilities: (1) to review and equalize overall county assessments as assessed by the County Assessor; and (2) to hear assessment appeals by property owners.
Arkansas State Senate Report
By Senator Ron Caldwell
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas sales tax holiday this year will be on the first weekend in August, Saturday and Sunday, August 3 and 4. Consumers will not have to pay sales tax on any articles of clothing that cost less than $100.
The exempted items include pants, shirts, dresses and shoes. Also free from sales tax are bathing suits, baby blankets, underwear, raincoats, uniforms, hats and caps, aprons, neckties, scarves and steel-toes boots.
Diapers, even disposal diapers, are included on the list of exempt items. However, sports equipment will not be exempt, so you will pay sales tax on cleats, baseball gloves, goggles, life preservers, shin guards and shoulder pads.
Accessories are also on the list of exempted items, as long as they cost less than $50. The list of articles is extensive, and includes handbags and purses, sunglasses, jewelry, hair notions, wallets, watches and wigs.
More than 65 categories of cosmetics are exempt from the sales tax, such as mascara, many types of hair products, fingernail polish and fingernail remover, bath salts, artificial eyelashes, perfume and stretch mark cream.
School supplies will be exempt from the sales tax. Officially the first weekend of August is called the sales tax holiday, but many people refer to it as the “Back to School” sales tax holiday. That’s because the legislature intentionally scheduled it for early August, to benefit families with children going to school.
School supplies include pens, pencils and paper as well as art supplies. Thanks to Act 944 of 2021, approved by the legislature earlier this year, some electronic and computer equipment were added to the list of tax exempt items. Laptops, desktops, tablets, printers, keyboards, calculators, cell phones, e-readers and monitors are exempt from the sales tax. However, video games, stereos and televisions are not included.
Arkansas families will save an estimated $2.6 million on purchases of electronic and computer equipment.
The sales tax exemption applies to single articles, and is not based on the overall cost of everything you buy. For example, you can buy three shirts $25
each and a pair of pants for $50 and you will not be charged the sales tax, even though the total is $125. Because each item is less than $100, the exemption is applied.
However, if you buy a pair of shoes for $120, you will have to pay the sales tax on the full amount of the purchase.
When you take advantage of a sale that allows you to buy one item and get another for a reduced price, the holiday exemption applies only to the items costing less than $100. For example, a store may offer a pair of jeans for $120 and you can get a second pair for half price, or $60. The sales tax exemption will apply only to the second pair.
The exemption applies to all sales taxes, not just state sales taxes. That means exempt items are free of all city, county and local sales taxes.
All retailers have to participate. Articles cannot be separated in order to lower their price under the $100 and $50 thresholds.
Men’s suits and pairs of shoes, which normally are sold as one unit, cannot be split into separate purchases. New Income Tax
The state Department of Finance and Administration has published new income tax withholding tables.
That’s good news for 1.1 million Arkansas taxpayers, because it means they will take home more money on their next paycheck.
The adjustment to the tables was sent to about 80,000 businesses that employ more than a million Arkansans. The income tax cut was the major achievement of a recent special legislative session. The legislature approved the governor’s proposal to reduce the state’s top individual income tax rate from 4.4 percent to 3.9 percent. The legislature has approved numerous income tax cuts over the past several years, but the current tax reduction took effect immediately and applies to tax year 2024. The tax cut will save Arkansas residents more than $256 million every year.
Most legislators and the governor say that Arkansas income taxes need to be lowered or repealed altogether, in order for Arkansas to compete economically with neighboring states. Every tax reduction makes it easier for the state to recruit industry. The top corporate
A recent survey by the National Retail Foundation revealed that families plan to spend an average of $875 for children starting or returning to school. This time of year can be financially burdensome for many families across Arkansas. To ease this burden, we want to remind you about the upcoming Arkansas Sales Tax Holiday.
This year, the event starts at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, August 3, and continues until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 4.
income tax rate is going down from 4.8 percent to 4.3 percent, saving 7,800 businesses based in Arkansas about $66.2 million every fiscal year.
In a recent speech the president of the state Chamber of Commerce said that Arkansas is more economically competitive than it has ever been, largely due to recent tax reductions that have allowed businesses to pay higher wages and make more capital investments. He also gave credit to recent positive changes in the collection of unemployment insurance taxes and favorable workers’ comp rates.
However, one issue continues to concern policy makers– the lack of skilled labor in certain sectors. It’s a reason legislators and officials of Arkansas colleges and universities support programs to recruit and retain more college graduates.
The City of Carlisle, Arkansas is accepting applications for a Parks and Recreation Director. This position is essential for managing and improving local parks and recreational facilities.
Job Title: Parks and
Recreation Director
Location: Carlisle, Arkansas
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: Minimum $35,000 (negotiable based on experience and qualifications)
Job Summary:
The Parks and Recreation Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the activities and operations of the Parks and Recreation Department. This position ensures the effective delivery of recreational programs, the maintenance of parks and facilities, and the promotion of community engagement through various activities.
Key Responsibilities: Program Development and Management: Develop, implement, and oversee recreational programs and events that meet the needs and interests of the community. Evaluate program effectiveness and community feedback to make improvements.
Coordinate with local schools, organizations, and volunteers to enhance program offerings.
televisions are not included.
Statewide, the sales tax holiday is estimated to save Arkansans millions of dollars annually.
Online purchases of specified items will be tax-free as long as the transaction is processed between 12:01 a.m. on the 3rd and 11:59 p.m. on the 4th and the items are shipped to an Arkansas address.
The changes below, which became effective on July 1, are the result of efforts by the State Board of Education Committee on Early Learning and local early childhood lead organizations and their continued engagement with stakeholders.
Act 757 of 2011 established a sales tax holiday in Arkansas during the first weekend of August each year. During this period, state and local sales taxes are not collected on certain products.
Clothing items priced under $100 each and clothing accessories priced under $50 each are exempt from sales tax during this weekend. Accessories include handbags, cosmetics, jewelry, umbrellas, and more. Most school supplies, such as book bags, binders, paper, crayons, pencils, and rulers, are also tax-exempt.
In the 2021 Regular Session, we passed Act 944, which extended the sales tax holiday to include electronics. Examples of exempt electronics include calculators, desktop computers, cell phones, ereaders, laptops, monitors, printers, keyboards, and tablets. Video game systems and
The sales tax holiday was created to help Arkansas families. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. For a complete list of tax-exempt items and answers to frequently asked questions, visit arkansashouse.org.
Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning. Improving access to high-quality childcare programs helps to provide structured environments where children can explore, play, and interact, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and cooperation.
This week, we would like to share a recent announcement regarding increased access to affordable childcare. The Arkansas Department of Education announced important changes to the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) subsidy program under the LEARNS Act. The Child Care Assistance is a program available for low-income families. This program provides financial assistance for quality childcare and is made possible by the CCDF.
SUBSCRIBE
HELP WANTED
Facility and Park Maintenance:
Responsible for the maintenance and improvement of parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and recreational facilities.
Ensure all facilities comply with safety standards and are wellmaintained.
Coordinate with public works or contractors for larger maintenance and improvement projects.
Budget and Financial Management:
Prepare and manage the department & budget, including forecasting future financial needs.
Seek and manage grants, sponsorships, and donations to support programs and facilities.
Monitor expenditures and ensure costeffective operations while maintaining quality services.
Community Engagement and Promotion:
Serve as the primary liaison with Carlisle Public School District, community members, local government, and other stakeholders.
Promote parks and recreation programs through various channels, including social media and community events.
Address public inquiries and concerns in a timely and profes-
Required work hours: Families must now show they completed 20 hours of work each week, a reduction from 30 hours. This change expands access to high-quality early childhood opportunities, making it easier for working families to balance work and home life.
Household income determination: Instead of updating the eligibility-based state median income every two years, ADE will update this criteria every year. This ensures eligibility determinations are more accurate.
Family Co-Payment: Arkansas now waives family co-payments for families at or below 75 percent of the state’s median income. This is a change from 40 percent, so more families can afford high-quality early childhood opportunities for their children. Removal of lifetime limit: The previous 60month limit to receive benefits has been removed, allowing eligible families to now qualify indefinitely.
Unified application: Families can now use one application for both Arkansas Better Chance and CCDF programs.
sional manner.
Policy and Planning:
Develop and implement policies, procedures, and standards for the effective operation of the department.
Prepare long-term strategic plans for parks and recreation development and improvement.
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and best practices in parks and recreation management.
Minimum Qualifications:
Experience in Parks and Recreation Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in parks and recreation management or a related field.
Proven experience in program development and budget management. Strong leadership and organizational skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in using computer software for budgeting, scheduling, and promotional activities.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.
Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic
requirements, upon approval of the city council and/or hiring committee.
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
Certification as a Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP).
Experience working in a municipal or public sector environment. Familiarity with grant writing and fundraising.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to perform physical tasks related to the maintenance and inspection of parks and facilities.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work in various weather conditions. Application Process: Interested candidates should submit an online application. In addition, they must submit a resume, cover letter, and references to sdrye@carlislear.org. Review of applications will begin on July 24 th and continue until the position is filled. Carlisle, Arkansas is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.
Background checks will be performed on the selected candidate.
SEASONED Part/Full Time PAINTER NEEDED IMMEDIATELY.
Are you a skilled and detail-oriented painter looking for a new challenge? Do you have experience painting custom-built exhibits or displays? Are you ready to work with creative teammates in a clean and well appointed studio environment? As a Painter with NAPERVILLE Studios… You will work closely with Project Management, and Design teams to create top-quality assets that will be used in experiential marketing, exhibitions, or installations for our clients.
Candidates should submit a letter of interest & work history to:Massey Anthony at email: anthonymassey210@gmail.com or Call/Text:?(424) 327-8028.
Des Arc Public Library hosts “Foam Day” for
The Des Arc branch of the Prairie County Library System held a “foam party” on Wednesday, July 24. The event hosted several Pre-K through 6th grade students beginning at 2:00 p.m. (Photos courtesy of
Debbie Carlyle.)