July 26, 2023 edition

Page 1

Monday July 31 HHS, HJH football and Cheer pictures taken

Wednesday August 2 Master Gardeners Meeting Noon

Wednesday August 2-4 Cheer Clinic 4:00-6:00 Hazen High School Gym

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

Hazen City Council ok’s filming, hears reports

The Hazen City Council passed resolution 582 allowing “On Patrol Live”, a cable television show, to film the Hazen Police Department beginning next week at its July 20 meeting held in the city hall. Only Councilman Dallas Taylor was absent from the meeting.

Utilities Department Manager Chad Swaim reported that several water leaks had been repaired and that the installation of 1000 feet of gas line at the Loves station has been completed. The department has patched some potholes with asphalt, and mowing the city’s grass has kept the summer workers busy. Swaim’s son was hired part-time to help with the mowing. The cleanup of limbs after the last major storm has also kept the utilities department busy. Seven large trees were uprooted in the town, and with the help of the Hazen Fire Department and local citizens, Swaim hopes to finish the cleanup soon.

“It’s the worst that I’ve seen,” Swaim said.

Hardke said that the city can rent additional equipment for larger jobs and use the city’s chipper for smaller limbs. The city will put together a plan and hopes to have the limbs removed in two weeks.

Councilman Steve Chlapecka said that the limbs in ditches and in Little Hurricane Creek, which runs through town, need to be removed as soon as possible . “We’ll just have to make time and do it as we can,” Swaim said. Taylor said that there might be some OES funding available and that he would contact them. When asked if the city could pay someone to do the work, Hardke said, “We’re looking at what will be the best and quickest way.”

Hardke also reported on the status of the old sewer pipe that collapsed under Highway

70 a year ago. The old sewer pipe is continuing to cause problems under the highway although Hardke says that it doesn’t seem to be getting worse. The only way to end the problem is to excavate down to the line, vacuum it out, put in slurry to seal it, and finish with concrete and asphalt. This would require blocking at least one lane of the highway, and a contractor has estimated that the repair would cost $73,000. The Arkansas Department of Transportation has already given the city $68,000 to overlay city streets some of which the city might be able to use for the repair.

Concrete sewer lines have a fifty year lifespan and deteriorate over time due to sewer gases. Swaim said most of the city’s sewer lines are just as old as this one.

Hardke said that the state audit report on the water and gas department was good. There was only one comment made, which the city gets after every audit due to the number of city employees in the office. Hardke assured council members that he and the staff reviews everything as much as possible,” which includes looking at expenditures every week and noting anything unusual. Hardke also said that as of June 30th, all city accounts had spent about 50% of the money in each account. He saw no problems with the budget report.

The council received the Hazen Library 2nd quarter report which listed 24 children’s programs with 374 people attending them and nine adult programs with an attendance of 79. The library recently hosted “Popsicles with the Police,” where children got to meet local law enforcement officers. The number of books and DVD’s circulated was 3550. April Highfill is in charge of

Hazen PD feature d on “O n P atrol L i v e ”

The “On Patrol Live” cameras will be filming the City of Hazen’s Police Department during their day-to-day activities, including arrests, and the videos will be aired on the Reelz channel on Friday and Saturday nights, according to Police Chief Bradley Taylor. The filming will begin this week and will continue for eight weeks.

The department was given permission by the council to enter into a

the Prairie County Library System.

Andy Barrett, the new superintendent of Hazen Public Schools introduced himself to the council. Taylor praised Barrett’s emphasis on school security. Hardke reported that Mark Mosby has decided

to renovate his house that was recently condemned by the city. City employees inspected the property and gave Mosby a list of needed repairs, reminding him that all plumbing and electrical work must be done by workers permitted by the city. No one

can live in the house until an inspector pronounces it habitable. “It’s going to be a challenge,” Hardke said. The other condemned house, located on Front Street, will be pushed down and disposed of since there is no estate with which the city can file a claim.

Colla b oration b et w een Carlisle S chool D istrict an d city d iscusse d at council

addressed the City Council on July 18 about the Bison tennis team using the City Gym (the old gym at the park) for early morning practice. On the occasional morning when it is raining and players are unable to practice on the adjacent tennis court, Rountree asked for permission to use the gym for tennis practice.

Council members questioned him concerning what equipment would be used, how often this could happen, would the restrooms be left in proper condition, and would Ronnie Ashmore get proper notice. Getting the answers they needed, the council voted to allow the tennis team use of the gym on the rare occasions that morning rain forbade practice. Rountree also discussed collaboration between the school and city for flag football beginning in the fall. The advantages of flag football would include continuity of teaching fundamentals by the high school coaches, decrease in expenses for equipment, no traveling, safety for players, and the possibility of including all students. After discussion the Council passed a resolution in favor of the collaboration beginning this fall with details to follow.

Ordinance 350, regulat-

ing burning in the city ban was passed. The ordinance stipulates that wood and wood products can be burned during daylight hours under supervision. No plastic products or trash can be burned. Wood can be burned outside at night if burned in a fireproof container and supervised by an adult aged 18 and older.

chips have been accumulated with more to go.

Damage was widespread across the town and was varied. Besides the three houses destroyed, some sustained major damage from falling trees and roof damage. Other homes had minor damage such as fences blown over or out-buildings destroyed. In all, 82 residences were affected in one way or another. Electricity was out from Sunday until Saturday for some.

Superintendent William Rountree

Ordinance 351 repeals

Ordinance 299 and raises the rate for mosquito control from $4 to $7 a month. The last time the rate was raised was in 2012. The ordinance passed and will be in effect starting with the August water bill. A full report was made on the consequences of the recent windstorm. By state standards three houses were destroyed and two people were killed. In five days 189 dump truck loads by the county and 180 regular dump truck and truck loads were carried to the dumping station outside of town. Twenty loads of

The state, not the county, will measure the piles of debris that the city hauled out to evaluate the costs from the paperwork that people turn in concerning whether they had insurance or not and inventory the city’s use of its equipment, hours worked, and payroll. After the mounds of paperwork has been submitted, the state will evaluate whether or not the city is eligible for any reimbursement. If so, the maximum that can be received is 35% of the city’s expense.

The City wishes to thank the Lonoke County Road Department, Clay Parker, Lance Kirkman, Ben Wilson, Jake Jordan, Collin Torian and Robert’s Tree Service from Brinkley for their help in cleaning the city up after the storm. Their willingness and their work were invaluable.

contract with the filming company for one year and up to two years. The city can opt out at any time.

According to Taylor, the episodes cannot be shown until he watches them and agrees to their release. There will be a 20 to 30 minute delay between the filming and the film’s release.

The first Hazen documentary will air this Friday and Saturday night from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m.

Volume 122 Number 30 - USPS 225-680 Serving all of Prairie County and
Wednesday,
26, 2023
the Grand Prairie
July
PC
6.) 75¢ Community
of Events
4-H STEM camp held at
fairgrounds. (See page
Calendar
Hazen Senior Center opens daily from 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Lunch is served from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. All Seniors are welcome. Family and children stories, craft, snacks DeValls Bluff Library Every Thursday 4:00-4:30 Hazen Library Every Wednesday 10:00 a.m.10:45 a.m. Thursday July 27 Des Arc School Board Meeting 6:00 p.m. Food distribution at Hazen Methodist Church 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon
Please call F&M Bank (255-3042) or The Grand Prairie Herald (255-4538) to list events 3% 4% 75° 76° 3% 76° 8% 1% 98° 97° 75° 95° 95° 96° 76°
Patti Rye and Janie Starr presented information on the dangers of 5G microwaves to humans and asked the city to ban 5G towers within the city limits.

Jerry L. Davis

Jerry L. Davis age 78 went to his final resting place on July 9, 2023.

He was born on October 24, 1944 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to Carl and Marie Davis. Jerry was a graduate of Hot Springs High School and Henderson State University.

He was a band director in the Hazen, Ashdown, and Lakeside Schools.

Jerry was preceded in death by two sons, Clay Davis and Clint Davis, brother, Carl Edward Davis. He is survived by sons, Jeb Davis and Andrew Davis; ten grandchildren; special cousin, Judy Garacia. No memorial service is schedule at this time. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Cremation Services of Arkansas.

Paul Earvin Williams

Paul Earvin Williams, 73, of Benton, Arkansas passed away July 17, 2023. He was born on January 14, 1950, in Des Arc, Arkansas to the late Arlie Lee “Bud” and Syble G. (Voiles) Williams. Paul graduated from UCA with a Bachelor of Business Administration. He and Doris owned and operated Williams Tax Service, with offices in Benton and Sherwood, for over thirty-five years. Paul loved

fishing, playing the stock market, and a cold beer. He was a big jokester and believed in having a good time. One of Paul’s favorite places to be was at his second home in Griffithville, Arkansas where special memories were made with his family and friends. Paul also enjoyed spending time riding in his boats, four wheelers, side by sides, or in his Mercedes Benz convertible, affectionately called his “Super Car”. Family and friends were very special to Paul, and he was very generous to them. Paul is dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

Preceding Paul in death are his parents; and a nephew. Paul leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of fifty years, Doris Kay Williams of Benton; daughter, Sara Elizabeth “Sara Beth” Williams of Tull; three grandchildren: Alazae “Alli” Sharp, Teegan Sharp, and Arianna Hooker; siblings: Janice West and husband Lynn of Pangburn, Carlos Williams and wife Deb of Shirley, Joyce Williams of Griffithville, Danny Williams and wife Brenda of Griffithville, Delores

Winfrey and husband David of Floyd, and Tonya Tacker of Searcy; nine nieces and nephews; and many special family members and friends who love Paul and will miss him always.

Graveside service were held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 22 at Welcome Home Cemetery, Griffithville, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook:

HHS Class of ‘68 has reunion...

The Hazen High School Class of 1968 celebrated their 55 year reunion at Murry’s Restaurant in Hazen on May 20th. Those who attended were: (front row) Teacher Christine Weems, Elizabeth Carpenter, Sherry Jennings Johnson, Paula Drotar Coburn, Malessie Kee Sims, Jeanette (Marie Kocourek) Stephens, and Kathy Clayton Hughes. In the second row are: Danny Black, Teacher Danny Shedd, Phillip Johnston, Dennis Harper, Bruce Proctor, Buddy Hall, Buster Guthrie, George Kerr, Jim Foot, Eddie Beam, and Gayle Holmes (who provided the picture).

L i g ht Y our Home f or Christmas Contest

Residents of Carlisle

will be eligible to win a $1,000 first prize in the 2023 Light Your Home for Christmas Contest. The second prize in $500. The deadline to enter is November 27.

The sponsors for this contest are Kirkman Generator and Carlisle Pentecostal Church of God. The sponsors are also making an additional donation of $2,000 to the lighting fund. This contest is part of the recent efforts led by the Christmas Ladies Deb Madar and Barbara Phillips to light up the City of Carlisle at Christmas. Registration will cost $5 per home with the exception of the first five which will be free. Only homes inside the city limits are eligible. Two judges will come from the Carlisle

Deb Madar and Barbara Phillips, aka the “Christmas Ladies”, receive prize money for the Christmas contest from Lance Kirkman

Pentecostal Church of God and two more from outside the area.

Lance Kirkman spoke to the City Council, “In

doing this we hope to bring in some out-oftown people to enjoy our lights while possibly bringing in extra rev-

enue for the city in sales for our local businesses. We are the light of the world! So we want our town to shine!”

Prairie County Master Gardeners help with Green Thumb Camp set-up

The Prairie County Master Gardeners met for their regular meeting on Wednesday, July 5, at the Prairie County Fairgrounds. The plan

for the day was to help set up for the upcoming 4-H Green Thumb gardening camps that were held on the next two days. Eleven members were present.

President Rhonda Betzner presided, and the treasurer’s and secretary’s reports were approved.

Debra Carpenter reported that 17 azaleas have been bought to plant at the Des Arc courthouse, and that she is keeping them until they can be planted.

bers of the committee are Sue Clayton and Janis Toll. The Master Gardeners plan to work at the fairgrounds the day before the fair begins.

Box 92, Hazen, Ar. 72064

Amanda Stark volunteered to chair the fairground committee, and it was announced that the Prairie County Fair will be held September 18-22. The other mem-

S ales ta x holiday this wee k

LITTLE ROCK – Every year the sales tax holiday is the first weekend in August. This year it will be Saturday, August 5, and Sunday, August 6.

Consumers will not have to pay sales tax on any articles of clothing that cost less than $100. The exempted items include not only ordinary clothing such as 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. 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, sun-

glasses, jewelry, hair notions, wallets, watches and wigs.

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. .

Essentially, there is no limit on the number of exempt items you can purchase, as long as each item costs less than $100 for clothes or $50 for accessories. There is no price limit on electronics and computer equipment, nor is there one on school supplies.

The exemption applies to all sales taxes, not just state sales taxes.

The plant sales in Hazen and Des Arc netted just under $1000. The money will be used to fund scholarships for local students. Some changes to the plant sale were discussed, including bringing plants from home and possibly selling some lawn items as well. No date has been set for the annual pumpkin sale.

Carpenter reported that next year’s Master Gardener Conference will be held in Hot Springs on May 30June 4. Carpenter said that this year’s conference at Russellville

High School was wellattended with about 400 at the annual awards banquet. Amy Tallent and Amanda Stark were applauded for receiving awards at this year’s conference. Stark was awarded for her monthly newsletter, and Tallent was named Agent of the Year for small counties. The P and G days will be held on August 4-5 at the Embassy Hilton in Hot Springs. The 35th Master Gardener Appreciation Day will be held on October 13 at St. James United Methodist Church in Little Rock. Carolyn Marek and Linda Price served lunch, and Larry Anthony provided dessert. Emily Moody will be the August speaker.

Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, July 26, 2023 Member
The
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 The
Herald is an independent publication that has
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 Arkansas Press Association Hazen Cemetery Donations Hazen Cemetery donations for the month are: In Memory of: Don Shelman BY: T.P. Enterprise In Memory of : Samuel and Mabel Humphries Family By: Dereice McClard and Vivian Humphries In Memory of: Charles and Jeanie Webb By: Clara Crownover In Memory of: Alan Sickel By: Billy and Nona Gail Booth Janie Westbrook Starr Donations are greatly appreciated. They may be mailed to: Hazen Cemetery P.O.
2023
Grand Prairie Herald (USPS) 225-680
Grand Prairie
served

Hazen School District raises classified employee salaries, security discussed

The Hazen School Board met in the elementary school library on Monday, July 17, for its regular July meeting. Present were new superintendent Andy Barrett and new elementary principal Laura Saranie, high school principal Amy Marek, CFO Sarah Snider, and the superintendent’s assistant Cindy Ciganek. All board members were present with the exception of Kay Penn.

The classified salary schedule for the new school year was approved, giving employees a $2.00 an hour raise. The district expects additional foundation funding of $128,000 which can be used for staff member raises. “We needed to do something for classified staff,” Barrett said. “We fully believe we can afford it.” The cost to the district is expected to be around $70,000.

FCCLA member

Kaycie Seely and the FCCLA sponsor Summer Greenwalt were recognized for attending the FCCLA national convention in Colorado this summer. They gave a report about the national conference.

The board approved the superintendent’s recommendation to allow the DeValls Bluff Alumni Association to collect the DeValls

Bluff sports trophies to put on display at the DVB gym.

The board approved the Federal Assurances for Programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, the use of Sysco and Hiland Dairy Foods as a service supplier for the coming school year, and agreed to use C&S Cleaning Supply Co. for cleaning supplies for the cafeteria.

The district will have to pay the Arkansas School Board Association $79,419.32 to renew the property insurance for the 202324 school year and $6510.01 for vehicle insurance renewal and mobile equipment. There will only be one district-wide student handbook this year.

“We aligned this so it will flow better,” Marek said. New this year is the permission for students to wear hats in the school buildings. Hoodies will still not be allowed. “In other schools it's a non-issue,” Marek said. There were no other major changes to the handbooks, according to Marek. The handbook will be posted online with links to specific areas of interest. “We’re trying to make it more userfriendly,” she said.

The board had another discussion of stipends for the athlet-

ic staff took place, but it was tabled with no action taken. A spreadsheet comparing schools surrounding the district was handed out to members.

Athletic Director Joe Besancon wants to double the athletic stipends across the board. “Those stipends have been the same since I’ve been here,” Besancon said. “We need to stay competitive,” Barrett added.

When Board Member Debbie Carlyle asked “What are you going to do with other people who are on stipends?” Barrett said that increases for them would be determined on a case by case basis. “We can’t shy away from this conversation,” Barrett said, but he added that the district needs to make sure it knows where money is being spent.

Susan Booth gave the PPC report. Marek told the board that she and Donna Felty will oversee the Essential Standards, and make sure that there is alignment between grades. She said that the high school open house will occur on August 10 and school will start on August 16. Saranie introduced herself and said that she is looking forward to working for the district.

The board then went into executive session

to consider personnel and get a security report from School Resource Office Teddy Walker. Upon re-opening the meeting, the board hired Laura Smith for a certified teaching position at the elementary school pending her completion of all Arkansas educational licensure requirements. The board also voted to transfer Marisa Murphy to a para-professional position in the pre-K from employment in the cafeteria.

Carol Smith was hired as a full-time cafeteria worker, and Lynn Mack was hired as a substitute cafeteria worker.

The resignation of the school nurse, Kim Anderson, was accepted. Anderson has worked for the district for 18 years.

Barrett told the board that new locks and door knobs, with key card access, will be installed in all buildings. He also said that the roof on the old gym had been peeled back during the recent storm. Barrett plans to have a meeting to draw up a one to five year plan for the district. In the plan will be the old cafeteria and the pre-K playground. Barrett said that other things are planned if the money allows.

PC farmer directs donation to 4- H

Local farmer George Marion Mack recently directed a $5,000 Bayer Fund America’s Farmers Grow Communities donation to Prairie County 4-H. Prairie County 4- H will use the funds to spread agricultural awareness with programs for the youth in our county.

“We sincerely thank Marion Mack for selecting Prairie County 4-H to receive this donation. These funds will support in-school programs, day camps, and various other youth activities to strengthen their knowledge of agriculture”, said, Amy Tallent, University of Arkansas Systems Division of Agriculture Research and Extension, Prairie County Staff Chair.

Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded nearly $65 million to nonprofits, aspiring ag students and public

schools across rural America. Farmers are leaders in their communities, which is why America’s Farmers programs rely on them to help identify the worthiest causes.

Dedicated to making a difference in rural farming communities, the Grow Communities program asks farmers across the country to participate by nominating nonprofit organizations with resources to strengthen their local communities. Last August, farmers entered for the chance to direct a $5,000 Grow Communities donation to a local eligible nonprofit of their choice. Farmers have directed donations to food banks, emergency response organizations, schools, youth agriculture programs and many others that reflect the spirit and support the vibrancy of rural America.

Des Arc C ity C ouncil accepts grant/loan for water system

At the June 18th Des Arc City Council meeting, a resolution was passed designating Mayor Roger Scott to sign and execute paperwork to accept a grant/loan from the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission.

The 75% grant/25% loan at 1.75% interest provides over two million dollars to be used for upgrades and repairs to the city’s water system, towers, and plant.

City Attorney Ginger Stuart offered her resignation to the council. She said that with her regular duties as an attorney, as city attorney for Lonoke and England, and living in North Little Rock, she felt the need to lighten her schedule. Stuart

offered to continue doing necessary legal work for the city without attending meetings until a new attorney could be hired. She also offered to provide names of some possible replacements and said that she would help get them started.

The owner of Tortuga’s Mexican Restaurant, who asked the council last month for approval to apply for a mixed drink license asked the council if they had an answer. After some discussion, a motion was made to give approval.

The council took a vote which resulted in two for and three against.

Gail King, Jodie Foster, and Keith Knupp voted no, and Judy Burnett and Nicole Fisher voted yes. Doug Estes was absent.

addressed the council for the Baseball Association. He said that they would like to see what options are available to repair and improve the “old gym” located at the ballpark. He said the association would like to use it for a practice facility during bad weather. Mayor Scott recommended that they have a contractor look at the building and see what it would take to make it usable and then bring the information to the council’s work meeting on Tuesday, the 25th at 6:00 pm.

Ambulance Director

Christy Rogers told the council that something has to be done to allow her to schedule certified drivers and EMTs to handle emergency runs when the first ambulance is already on a

run. She said there had been several times that she needed backup but was afraid to call those who work for the city or are on the council.

Mayor Scott told her that she has his permission to call anyone when there is an emergency.

Attorney Stuart reminded him that they cannot legally do that without an ordinance and that even if an ordinance to allow city personnel or council members to also work on the ambulance, those people can’t be on the schedule, but can work on an as-needed, emergency basis. Scott said they would discuss it at the work meeting on Tuesday.

Roxanne Bradow, owner and editor of The Grand Prairie Herald newspaper, spoke to the council about the “Freedom of Information

Act.” She provided the mayor and council members with a “FOIA” handbook for reference. Bradow reminded the council that cities are required to print the yearly budget and all ordinances in the legal county newspaper. She added that the paper must be notified before any meetings. She said that when the White River Journal was discontinued, the Grand Prairie Herald became the only legal newspaper in the county and began adding Des Arc news. Mayor Scott asked her if they had been meeting the requirements, to which she replied, “No.” Scott said that he would make sure it was done from now on.

Paul Guess addressed the council about his request last month, to consider featuring the city on his morning show on KATV. He reminded them that there is an option for a full one-hour show at a cost of $9,000 or segments featured on his show at $1,600 each.

King asked Attorney Stuart if the city could

legally pay for advertising. Stuart replied that they could pay for either option. Mayor Scott said the city should give the funds to either the Chamber of Commerce or the Des Arc Industrial Development Commission to pay for it. Scott said he would speak to them before the work meeting on Tuesday and the council would discuss it more then.

Gail King reported for the Gas Committee that gas consultant Michael Lindsey will be doing a study on the large percentage of gas loss. He also recommends purchasing a meter at the point of purchase. King said the committee will start getting quotes and recommends a work meeting soon to discuss the results of Lindsey’s findings and what needs to be done to prevent the loss.

Mayor Scott reported that one sealed bid had been received for the 2016 police vehicle. The bid was from Michael Neal for $3,000. A motion was approved to accept the bid.

Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, July 26, 2023
Amanda Stark, the 4-H sponsor for Prairie County, holds the $5000 donation check.

Bison looking good during football summer workouts

Wilson said he’s been pleased with the progress of his team during summer workouts.

The Bison have competed in two team camps and various 7-on-7 passing events.

Wilson succeeded Caleb Shock, who resigned to enter the private workforce again following the Bison’s Class 2A state runner-up finish in 2022.

“We’re real happy with what we’ve done,” Wilson said. “I feel like we’ve had good showings at the team camps. It’s the same for our 7-

on-7. I think we’re really encouraged from our passing game. We’re pretty happy with where we’re at right now.”

The Bison have two quarterbacks, including three-year starter Holden Jones and Lawson Petrus.

The Bison lost running back Jason Sullivan, who set a state record for touchdowns a year ago. He also set the school record for rushing yards in a season and career.

“Both quarterbacks have done a really good job,” Wilson said.

“Lawson has done a really good job running some read-option stuff, making the throws we ask him to make.

Holden has thrown the ball better than I’ve ever seen him do it. He’s going through his progressions better than he ever has. I think he’s more confident than he’s ever been too.

“He’s got some guys who can run and throw the ball to. They are doing a really good job of getting open and catching the ball.”

Wilson said his defense is getting better.

“It’s been solid,” he said. “We’ve been able to look really solid when we’ve been able to have everyone out there. There have been some times we’ve been banged up during the summer where we had to rest some guys.”

S warm finis h es fourt h in USSSA national tourne y

The Hazen Swarm finished four in the USSSA National 10-and-under softball tournament in Gulf Shores, Ala last week.

“They fought hard,” Swarm coach Gary Raper said. “It was over 100 degrees. They did what I asked. They put the ball in play. The pitching did good. They’ve done everything that they were taught to do.”

Carlisle FFA goes to camp...

It’s Chapter President Camp Week at Camp Couchdale! Chapter Future Farmers of America officers Nina Catherine Brown and Joey Gonzales are representing Carlisle at the camp.

The Swarm lost their first two games 9-8 to the Coastal Wolverines and Sweet Heat Elite 93. They came back to beat The Louisiana Cajust Assault 15-0 and the Oklahoma Twisters 19-5 before losing to the Texas Elite Lady Lobos

3-1. The Swarm’s last victory came over the Oklahoma Ducks 4-3 before the season ended with a 4-2 loss to the Texas Heat 2K12.

In the win over the Cajun Assault, the Swarm scored five runs in the first, seven in the second and three in the third.

Kennedy Raper hit a home run in the victory.

Katelyn Scott, Ashley Fisher and Raper each scored three runs. Harper Cook scored twice. Also scoring runs were Piper Raper, Olivia Edge, Bella Raper and Lydia Zeferjohn each scored a run.

Kennedy Raper and Cook combined to throw a three-inning no hitter. Raper struck out seven. Cook struck out three.

In the win over the Twisters, the Swarm scored 14 runs in the top of the first and five in the top of the second. Scott and Piper Raper each scored three runs to lead the Swarm. Fisher, Kennedy Raper, Edge, Lily Lisko and Zejerjohn each scored two runs. Also scoring were Cook, Bella Raper and London Raper.

In the 4-3 win over the Ducks, the Swarm trailed 1-0 before scoring three runs int he bottom of the second. Each team scored single runs in the third inning. The Ducks added a run in the top of the fourth. Piper Raper scored two runs to lead the Swarm. Also scoring were Kennedy Raper and London Raper.

Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, July 26, 2023 26th July
Ray Glover
26th July Ray Glover_____________
Drye_____________ 333 334
Sissy Drye
Sissy
The Hazen Swarm 10-and-under softball team pose for a picture on the beach in Gulf Shores, Ala. (Submitted)

Vin Number

2C3CDZAG8PH553586

2023 Dodge Challanger

To: Ean Holdings LLC

The above mentioned vehicle was towed to our lot on June 15, 2023 per request of the Hazen Police Department and was towed to storage lot of 1111 Highway 70 West in Hazen. The initial fee due is $275.00. The storage fee due is $50.00 per day and continues to accumulate daily. The administrative fees due are $130.00 for the processing of the lien, the processing of a stolen vehicle report by our Police Department and the processing of certified letters sent to the owner and lien holder (if any) via mail. The above mounts do not reflect the 11% tax that is due upon releasing the vehicle. Tower storage & administrative costs are accuring daily as legal liability of the

owner, Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service claims first priority lien on the said vehicle and its contents 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 the lien holder of all right, title, and interest in the vehicle.

To take possession of this vehicle, you must appear during normal business hours, MondayFriday 8am-5pm, and provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges. Please contact us immediately at 870-2553305 if you wish to pick up the above-mentioned vehicle.

Rick Wiggins, Owner Rick’s Automotive and Wrecker Service.

Vin Number 5FNYF18525BO1O853

2005 Honda Pilot

To:Lauren Hill

The above mentioned vehicle was towed to our lot on May 12, 2023 per request of the Prairie County Sheriff’s Office and was towed to storage lot of 1111 Highway 70 West in Hazen. The initial fee due is $250.00. The storage fee due is $50.00 per day and continues to accumulate daily. The administrative fees due are $130.00 for the processing of the lien, the processing of a stolen vehicle report by our Police Department and the processing of certified letters sent to the owner and lien holder (if any) via mail. The above mounts do not reflect the 11% tax that is due upon releasing the vehicle. Tower storage & administrative costs are accuring daily as legal liability of the

To Whom It May

Concern: A 1999

Chevrolet Pickup Vin# 1GCEC14W6XZ154431 was picked up on 3-6-23 at Hwy 302 North of Hazen 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-

To Whom It May

Concern: A 2001 Chevrolet Suburban Vin# 3GNEC16T51G103083 was picked up on 8-23-22 at T-Rick’s Parking Lot Hwy 63 at the request of the Property Owner. This vehicle is in the possession of Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service 1111 Hwy 70 W, Hazen Ar. 72064, (870)255-3305.

Towing, storage, & administrative costs are accruing as legal liability of the owner. Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service claims first priority possessory lien on the

owner, Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service claims first priority lien on the said vehicle and its contents 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 the lien holder of all right, title, and interest in the vehicle.

To take possession of this vehicle, you must appear during normal business hours, MondayFriday 8am-5pm, and provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges. Please contact us immediately at 870-255-3305 if you wish to pick up the above-mentioned vehicle. Rick Wiggins, Owner Rick’s Automotive and Wrecker Service.

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.

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

Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, July 26, 2023 Find all of your city and county news in the Grand Prairie Herald ---------------Due to the increase in postage, one year subscription prices will be raised to $25 in county, $30 in state, and $40 for out of state beginning in September. Free Ads for Free Stuff If you’re giving it away, we’ll give you an ad for free Call 2554538 Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical Keith Knupp 501.516.8285 knuppinc@hotmail.com CDL DRIVERS NEEDED Local hauling. Home every night. Weekly pay. Call T J Pauschert Trucking at 870-552-9400. Prairie County is now accepting applications for Prairie County Assessor. Applications and resumes can be turned in at the Des Arc County Courthouse Annex in Des Arc for the next two weeks. For more information about the position and its requirements, call 870-256-3741 .

Fairgrounds is venue for 4-H Camp: STEM is our Superpower

By Amanda Stark Prairie County

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is our Superpower. This camp allowed campers to learn coding skills while using robots and do spin art on a bicycle. They put their engineering knowledge to the test

and built boats out of recyclable material to carry rubber ducks across a pool. They also had the opportunity to enjoy our ooblek pool and learned how it is a solid and a liquid. Campers were engaged the entire camp and developed crucial skills of critical thinking, communication, collabora-

tion, and creativity. This camp was broken into two days by the campers’ ages. The June 27th camp was for Cloverbuds (5- to 8-yearolds) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the June 28th camp was for Juniors (9to 12-Year-olds). Both camps were held at the Prairie County Fairgrounds.

The Grand Prairie Quilt Society met July 12, 2023 for their Sit n' Sew at the First Christian Church fellowship hall, Stuttgart, with 6 members present.

Glenda opened the meeting with the "Thought for the Day,"...Two women talking: "What's the difficulty level of this quilting pattern?" and the other one replied, "On a scale of "Blissful Tranquility" to "Rage Inducing" that one is between "Moderate Swearing" and Intermittent Tantrums." The June minutes and treasurer's report were given. July Birthday greetings were extended to Winnie, Happy Birthday, Winnie!

Old Business:

Summer Quilt Day Camp report: Eleven ladies attended over the 3 days; many bags of dry beans were donated to the ICCM Food Bank. Many projects were completed, lots of visiting and great quilting tips shared. Everyone pronounced a great time was had by all.

Show and Share:

Glenda had many items for the Christmas Show Boxes: skirt sets & dresses,.

Marsha took the 8 lap robes to Crestpark she made during the day camp.

be August 9, come join us.

LCCA Des Arc Senior Center had a great time on Tuesday, July 11, touring the State Capitol. They learned some new things and remembered some of the old. Arkansas is the only state that allows access to their vault. They got to hold six hundred thousand dollars all in one hundred dollar bills. Pictured are Shirley Holloway in front and (l to r) Jane Krablin, Retha Allred, Sandra Webber and Jennifer Lucero. Also attending, but not in the picture were Leaslie Lucero, Aydin Travis and Leona Travis. They had lunch in the cafeteria at the Capitol and afterwards went to Trader Joe's and Barnes & Noble.

Lou Anna showed her lovely quilt top made from different patterns Charlotte also showed a photo of her first quilt that she finished and presented to her friend. The meeting adjourned. After a quick pizza snack lunch, everyone got busy on their projects. Shelley sewed a cute bib/collar; Kay and Charlotte honed their skills in jewelry making; Glenda made several tote bags for the Christmas Shoe Boxes; Marsha made 3 more lap robes for Crestpark; Lou Anna cut out quilt blocks for her next quilt. The next meeting will Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, July 26, 2023
Prairie County Extension Agent Emilee Moody shows campers how to make art with bicycle power above. The campers are building boats out of recyclable materials (right above) and playing with the ooblek pool (right below.)
GP Q ui lt ers
si t and sew
Charlotte's Friendship quilt; this is the first quilt she has made.
Mrs. Lou Anna Spears' multi-pattern quilt top. Sherrye cutting out fabric. Senior Citizens at the capitol...

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