January 31, 2024 edition

75¢

Crew builds handicap ramp for family. (See pictures on p. 6.)

Volume 123 Number 4 - USPS 225-680

Community Calendar of Events

Serving all of Prairie County and the Grand Prairie

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

District Judge Candidates speak in Des Arc

Thursday February 1 Hornets vs Clarendon 4:30 p.m.

Hornets’ Nest 7B, JG, JB, SB Friday February 2 Groundhog Day Monday February 5 Hazen Chamber of Commerce meeting 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday February 6 Prairie County Master Gardeners’ meeting Noon PC Fairgrounds Thursday February 8 DeValls Bluff City Council Meeting 6:00 p.m.

Monday February 12 Biscoe EHC meeting Biscoe Baptist Church 10:30 a.m.

Hazen School Board meeting 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday February 13 Caregiver Support Group Hazen Senior Center 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday February 14 Valentine’s Day 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.

Judge Mark Derrick On Thursday, January 25, Judge Mark Derrick, Justin Mercer, and Judge Eric Kennedy, spoke to a group in Des Arc at the Sno-White Dairy Bar. They are the candidates for the

Attorney Justin Mercer

district judge position in Prairie County.

Chris O’Neill was unable to attend.

Each candidate expressed their support for drug rehabilitation and probation when possible. Most of

the cases heard in district court are traffic violations and misdemeanor drug arrests.

Many would think this judgeship is not important. However, that is not the case.

This court is usually

Judge Eric Kennedy the first interaction a person has after they have made a bad decision.

The district court judge’s decisions, and the sentences each violator receives, can effect the rest of their lives. The

experience a person in court has can turn their life around. The meeting was well attended.

Judges run for office as non-partisans, and their election will be held on March 5.

Des Arc Council discusses baseball field lights

By Lisa Mills At the January 23rd city council meeting, the 2024 Baseball Association President, Kade Parnell, presented the council with a list of the 2024 board members. Members include President Kade Parnell, Vice-President Rueben McMillen, Secretary Kourtney McIntosh and members Rick Ford, Wade Allwhite, Brad Knupp, Josh Gibson, Duby Moore, Trevor Geisler, and Boog Whiting. Parnell said, “I think we have a real-

ly good board, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for us.”

Gail King asked Parnell to be sure to always interact with the council and let them know if something comes up the council can help with.

Mayor Roger Scott asked Parnell if all the lights had been installed and were working. Parnell said that he has not tried turning on all the lights yet, but did know that two were not work-

ing. Mayor Scott said that he wants to know that everything has been done and is working because it has already cost $31,000 and now there is another bill for $6,400 to be approved. Keith Knupp said, “Remember we had also approved an additional $1,600 for labor. I don’t understand all the confusion because the council approved paying Ward Electric $39,400 to install all new LED lights after the hail damage.”

King said,

Thomas promoted to Des Arc M&P Teller Coordinator Merchants and Planters Community Bancshares, the holding company for Merchants and Planters Bank and Merchants and Planters Insurance Services, is pleased to recognize the growth and expansion of their organization and the need for greater leadership that comes with it. To fill this need, they proudly announce the promotion of five of their staff members.

Hayley Thomas has been promoted to Teller Coordinator in the Des Arc market of Merchants and Planters Bank.

Hayley has worked as a teller in both White and Prairie counties for five years.

She made the switch to the banking industry after earning her certification as a dental assistant. Her favorite part of the job is visiting with her customers and laughing with her coworkers. She is bright, enthusiastic, and a true asset to the Des Arc team. Hayley and her husband have two young boys, and they love to hunt and fish together. She also loves to read and finished seventy-four books last year.

Additional promotions include: Calli Johnson to Vice President of Merchants and Planters Insurance Services, Eva Henriksen to Vice President-Loan Officer of the Newark market of Merchants and Planters

Haley Thomas Bank, Danny Worthington to Senior Accounts Manager of Benefit Lines at Merchants and Planters Insurance Services, Monica Goings to Head Teller in the Newark market of Merchants and Planters Bank, and Samantha Thompson to Head Teller in the Newport market of Merchants and Planters Bank.

Jim S. Gowen, Jr., President and CEO of Merchants and Planters congratulates all staff members.

“I’m proud to recognize the accomplishments and professional potential of each of these team members. They represent our organization with integrity and are invested in the success of our bank and our community. I’m always pleased to promote from

within the organization because it opens the door for others to excel and allows us to add new members to our Merchants and Planters family,” Gowen said.

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“no we approved $31,000 to Ward Electric, according to the invoice that Craig Treadwell provided from the association and we paid that, then we got another bill for $1,600 and paid that, and now a year later we’re getting another bill.”

Knupp replied, “Well apparently when he was questioned about the $1,600 he said it was for labor and was not included in the original quote.

King said “I did not vote to approve that original quote because I said that it was not detailed enough and didn’t understand exactly what we were supposed to be getting for that amount because it just said replace LED lighting damaged in hailstorm.” Knupp told Parnell, “Well, however we handle this issue I would just like to say that in the future when the association presents a proposal for the council to approve spending money on it needs to be detailed, for your benefit as well as for ours.”

Mayor Scott said “I will pay this $6,100 when the board tells me that everything is done, because Craig told me that everything was done but Kade is saying they are not all working.

A motion was approved that the final bill of $6,100 be withheld until the Baseball Association signs off that all the lights are working and they are

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satisfied with all the work.

An ordinance was passed approving the 2024 budget. The budget includes a 5% across the board raise for city employees.

A resolution was passed authorizing the destruction of 2015 and 2016 city records.

King reported for the gas committee that December’s gas price computation was 11.6%.

She reported for the Animal Control committee that she, Animal Control Officer Karmen Sutton, and Adoption Promoter Amy Patterson met with Best Friends Animal Rescue and Animal Control Officers from across the state on January 15th in Little Rock.

She said that information was shared on how to make animal control programs work better and solve problems.

A statewide adoption event will be held at the state fairgrounds on February 10th, and Des Arc will be presenting nine dogs for adoption.

For the Grants Committee, King reported that a sewer system grant and a festival grant have been applied for.

Mayor Roger Scott, Recorder/Treasurer Janice Huffstickler, and Council Members Keith Knupp, Judy Burnett, Gail King, Nicole Fisher, and Jodie Mayher were present.

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Page 2 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Chief Justice to visit...

Billy Ray Kee Billy Ray Kee of Hazen was born July 21, 1942 to Henry Frank and Modean Kee. He d i e d Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at the age of 81.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother.

He was a member of Center Point Missionary Baptist Church and a retired carpenter.

Survivors are his wife of 59 years, Jerrilea Kee of Hazen; children, Brian Kee and wife Fiona of Murphy, Texas, Sheryl Kee of Lonoke, Jennifer Lewis and husband, Dale of Nauvoo, Alabama and David Kee of Hazen; his sisters, Nona Gail Booth and husband, Billy of Hazen and Annette Meadows and husband, John of Hazen; eleven grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren.

Visitation was held from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M., Thursday, January 25, 2024 at Center Point Missionary Baptist church prior to the Memorial service at 11:00. Burial was held in the Center Point Cemetery

Shirley Deines Smith Parr Shirley Deines Smith Parr of Dalton’s Place of Star City, formerly of H a z e n , p a s s e d a w a y January 19, 2 0 2 4 .

Shirley was born March 25, 1938, to Julius and

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

Martha Deines in Hays, KS. The family later moved to Sharon Springs, KS where she lived until she graduated. She worked many years in the public school system and was very involved with the United Methodist Church and community wherever she lived. She was proud of her home state of Kansas and her German heritage, only surpassed by her pride and love for her children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harsley Parr; son, Randall Smith and stepson, Paul Parr.

She is survived by son, Rusty (Sarah) Smith of Des Arc; daughter-inlaw, Vivan (Kent) Shaw of Jonesboro; stepson, Clayton (Kim) Parr of Little Rock; grandchildren, Lauryn (Garrett) Qualls, Zachary Smith, Jeremy (Coral) Smith, Caleb Smith, Rachel Smith, Jamison Smith, Connor Parr and Jon Culbert Parr; brother, Harold Deines of Sharon Springs, KS; sister, Marlene Bolen of Goodland, KS, and sister, Janice (Don) Metcalf of Colorado Springs, CO; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Her first Memorial Service was held on Friday, January 26th at the First United Methodist Church in Des Arc with Rev. Melissa Maskell and Rev. Chris Wright officiating. Visitation begain at 1:00PM and the memorial service began at 2:00PM, both in the sanctuary. The second service will be held in her hometown of Sharon Springs, KS at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Hazen First United Methodist Church, PO Box 712, Hazen, AR 72064 or Des Arc First United Methodist Church, PO Box 498, Des Arc, AR 72040.

Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service in Star City.

Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net

Sherry Stavely Sherry Stavely, age 74 of Hazen, died January 18, 2024 at Maple Healthcare in Hazen.

She was born in Clarksville, Te n n e s s e e on November 28, 1949.

Sherry enjoyed making jewelry. She is survived by one niece, Christy Santiago of Plant City, Florida.

Her funeral service were held at 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at the Westbrook Funeral Home Chapel in Hazen by Bro. Billy Booth. Burial was held in the Hazen Cemetery.

Virgil Joseph Guidry Virgil Joseph Guidry, age 59, of Des Arc passed away at Unity Health at Searcy, on Monday, January 22, 2024.

Virgil was a transportation driver in the trucking industry and an offshore electrician.

He was preceded in death by his parents Yancy Paul and Gerry Guidry, Jessie and Betty Boudreaux and one sister Tabiatha Boudreaux and one brother in law Calvin Gagneaux.

Virgil leaves behind his wife, Maylynn Guidry of Des Arc, AR. two children, Travis Lacoste of Tennessee and Paige Taylor and husband Kaldric of Des Arc, four grandchildren. Siblings are three brothers, Roland Guidry (Paula) of Houma, LA, Jay Polit of New Orleans, LA, Jessie Boudreaux of Thibadeaux, LA., seven sisters, Leona Gagneaux (Daniel) of Schriever, LA, Angelle Foret (Danny) of Raceland, LA, Nancy Guidry, Gerri Lynn Lopez (Luis) of DeQuincy, LA, Juanita Del Villar (Tony) of Houston, TX, Charlene Authement (Ashful) of Iowa, LA, Hazel Gagneaux from Schriever, LA. and many friends and relatives.

The family had a private viewing and memorial service.

Local GFWC members attend Proficiency School

By Chris Weems Sue Price and Chris Weems attended the District 10 Proficiency School at Jacksonville Saturday at the Jacinto Lodge Hall.

The Worthy Grand Matron of Arkansas had charge of the questions part of the morning program. After lunch the initiation program was given by members of the District.

Mrs. Jones gave corrections along during the program.

Members from throughout the district did the 18 parts of the initiation.

Rita Sexton, Worthy Matron of Jacksonville Chapter and Deputy of District 10, presided for the opening and closing ceremonies.

Each participant who took the test and did a part of the initiation will receive a Grade A card for the year.

On January 19, the Deputy made her official visit to Jacksonville

Chapter #520 with a pot-luck supper at 6:00 and meeting following.

Arkansas Chief Justice Dan Kemp and AOC officials will visit the 17th Judicial Circuit at the White County Courthouse in Searcy on February 16th to give an update on several projects going on in the Judiciary: including court security and grant money availability, and the new building of our court management system that will allow for easier and efficient public access to court records.

Administrative Judge for Prairie and White Counties, Craig Hannah, will host the event.

Kemp has served as Chief Justice in Arkansassince first being elected to the bench in 2016.

GFWC holds January meeting

by Chris Weems GFWC Elsie McCain Club met at noon, Thursday, January 4, at Nick's Catfish and Barbecue in Carlisle.

Nell Pich was the hostess.

Chris Weems, president presided. The meeting opened with current events.

Weems distributed the revised annual report forms. Since the annual reports are due January 25, she also showed the cover sheet for each entry.

She also gave the Epsilon Sigma Omicron member report forms to those who are in the reading program.They are all due at the next meeting.

A letter was read from

problems or ones who live in nursing homes are at elevated risk.

Most healthy 60-yearold persons who don't live in group settings, and don't have underlying health factors--their bodies can probably handle fighting off RSV without a vaccine, one epidemiologist at U of Florida Health in Jacksonville, said.

Weems reminded members that the Operation Smile items will need to be sent before the next meeting, and members may select to do the same thing as last year and get them to her soon.

The next meeting will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 24,

Jordan Lopez, bride elect of Dusty Nichols honored with shower

By Chris Weems Miss Jordan Lopez, of Carlisle, bride elect of Dusty Nichols, of Hazen, was honored with a bridal shower Saturday morning, January 13, at Calvary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Hazen.

The honoree was assisted by her sister, Whitney Lopez, of Bay City, Texas and some of the hostesses, in opening and displaying her gifts. The gifts were displayed on a round tables with floor-length white tablecloths.

The guest were seated at tables with glass globes with miniature lights inside.

Special guest were Dusty’s mother, Carla Nichols, Hazen, Carla’s aunt Terri Vixon, Des Arc, Dusty’s aunt, Dorothy Woodall, Carlisle, and his cousin, Teresa Condor. Des Arc. The server table was

Hazen Cemetery Donations In Memory of: Woody Hill By: Linda Price Dale & Sara Perry Billy & Nona Gail Booth Donald & Dorothy Holmes Class of ‘66 In Memory of: Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Camp By: Lamar Coyle In Memory of: Versa Dean Jones By: Billy & Nona Gail

Jane Jackson, Stuttgart, the state president. She thanked the members for the honor of serving as president. She stated that Education and Libraries will be the focus of this administration. This being the second year of the administration, some projects will end.

Nell Pich, chairman of the Health and Wellness program, discussed the question, "Should I get the RSV shot?"

According to some authorities, you should ask your physician.

A Professor at Vanderbilt University says that older people with diabetes, lung, kidney or heart disease and persons with immune

Booth In Memory of: Carol Sue Beckham By: Billy & Nona Gail Booth In Memory of: Francis Neil By: Billy & Nona Gail Booth Donations are greatly appreciated and may be mailed to: Hazen Cemetery P.O. Box 92 Hazen, Ar. 72064

covered with a white table cloth with a partial overlay of pink and topped with white lace.

The centerpiece was a tall crystal vase with pink lillies and greenery and figurines of the bride and groom in front. Guest were served cake, punch. finger foods, and nuts and mints from crystal and silver appointments.

Hostesses were: Nanette Belford, Monica Lisko, Wendi Stock, Chris Weems, Trilby

Shelman, Terri Chapman, Christi Rounsavall, Freida Isbell, Gloria Strohl, Amanda Elder, Carolyn Van Houten, Sandy Felty, Donna Watson, Whitney McMullen, Sharron Stallings, Susan Anthony, Betty Thompson, Sherry Bullock, Kathy Addison, Lucille Vail, Joie McCarty, Cindy Hill, Stephanie Van Houten, Amy Van Houten, Sara Perry, and Tracie Vail.

-Public NoticePrairie County Election Commission

Public Logic and Accuracy Test Friday, February 8, 2024 3 PM Prairie County Courthouse Des Arc Arkansas 72040 The Commission will conduct the Public Logic and Accuracy test on the Voting Machines for the March 5, 2024, Preferential Primary, Non-Partisan Judicial and School Election.

Rita Dobson Chairperson 501-516-7264 Stan Ferguson 501-516-512 Harvey Joe Sanner 501-516-7000 Prairie County Clerk’s Office 870-256-4434 or 870-998-1304

Page 3 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Des Arc School Board rehires superintendent

By Lisa Mills The Des Arc School Board met on January 22nd. After going into executive session, a motion was approved to renew Superintendent Dr. Marc Sherrell’s contract for the 2025-2026 school year.

Superintendent Sherrell, High School Principal B.J. Paschal, Interim Elementary Principal Stacy Childers, Treasurer Natasha Richards and board members Billy Hinson, Johnny Reidhar, Charlie Brown, Drew Widener, T.J. English, and Jordan Smith were present.

Principal Paschal reported that grades 7, 8, 10, and 11 participated in the optional ATLAS Science Interim tests in December.

ATLAS will be the new testing system taking the place of ACT Aspire.

The percent of students scoring “Ready/ Exceeding” were 7th: 95%, 8th: 91%, 10th: 97%, and 11th: 97%.

Principal Childers

reported that K-6 students participated in a winter assessment for math and reading.

These assessments showed a 3% decline in math and a 6% decline in reading since the fall assessments. She said that it is typical to have a decline from fall to winter, one reason being that fall assessments are based on retaining what was learned in the previous grade, where winter assessments are based on new material learned in the present grade. “Jamie Eans is working with the teachers in grades that had the highest decline, and our paraprofessionals are providing as much individual extra help as possible, and we expect the spring assessments to be much better.”, Childers said.

Superintendent Sherrell reported that the current district enrollment is 637 plus 23 in Pre-K. Three school choice applications have been

received: one from Hazen, one from Brinkley, and one from Augusta. He said that there are currently two employees taking advantage of the $2,000 scholarships available for paraprofessionals for continued education .

They are Lee Garth and Julia Hasley. Make-up snow days are set for February 19th, March 24th, 28th, and 29th.

Sherrell stated that Elementary Principal Cheryl Holland is scheduled to return to work on January 29th, and thanked Childers for all her hard work as Interim Principal.

The board approved a motion to hire Carol Fisher as a long term substitute for Pre-K. A motion was approved to renew the School Board/Educators Legal Liability Insurance at $7,397.00.

Sherrell stated that there is a great need for substitutes and asked that anyone interested, please apply.

Lady Eagles pull away from Lady Bison

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor The Des Arc Lady Eagles improved to 12-8 on the season with a 5538 win over Carlisle on Friday night at Bison Arena.

The Lady Bison fell to 6-16.

Des Arc led 14-8 after one quarter and 25-15 at halftime.

Makenzie Williams led the Lady Eagles with 18 points. Grace Knight had 11. Emma Buckner had nine.

Kymber

Buckner had eight.

Kaylee McDonald and Kyrstin Horton scored four points each.

Calleigh Skarda and Jada Jones had three points each. Rachel Reidhar added two.

Paige Chadwick led Carlisle with 13 points.

Heather Buffalo had 11.

Atlantis Blancett scored seven. Bailey Dawson had four. Angie Petrus added three.

Des Arc lost to Barton 66-53 in a battle for first place in the conference.

Williams had 26 points

and 13 rebounds in the loss. McDonald had 10 points and four boards.

Grace Knight had six points and six rebounds.

Carlisle’s other game last week was a 42-30 loss to McCrory.

McCrory led 9-7 after one quarter and 24-16 at halftime.

Buffalo led Carlisle with nine points.

Blancett had seven.

Dawson scored six.

Petrus had four. Scoring two each were Paige Lee and Chadwick.

Bison get three big wins

By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor The Carlisle Bison had a big week, winning three games to improve to 10-7 overall and 9-3 in league play.

On Jan. 23, the Bison beat Hazen 62-53.

The score was tied 2323 at halftime. The Bison then outscored the Hornets 15-10 in the

third quarter and 24-20 in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.

Kaidon Clingmon led the Bison with 30 points. Bentley Parker had 13. Devin Cooney and Cajuan Percent had seven points each.

Isaiah Powell had four.

Lawson Petrus added a free throw.

Justin Schlenker led

-NOTICEFebruary 7th is the last day to register to vote for the Primary Election.

Call the Prairie County Clerk's Office in Des Arc to request absentee ballots.

870-256-4434.

Hazen with 21 points.

Carlisle also beat McCrory 55-41.

The Bison scored 13 points in the first, 11 in the second, 16 in the third and 15 in the fourth to get the win.

Clingmon led Carlisle with 19 points. Pernell had 12. Powell had 10.

Cooney scored seven.

Parker had six. Petrus added a free throw.

On Friday night, the Bison beat Des Arc 4341.

Carlisle scored 14 points in the first quarter, 10 in the second, seven in the third and six in the fourth.

Clingmon led the Bison with 14 points. Powell had nine. Petrus had eight.

Pernell and Cooney had four points each. Cam Cress had three. Parker added a free throw.

New board members Chad Greenwalt and Dave Hare

New Hazen Board members sworn in, Barrett rehired The Hazen School Board members Dave Hare and Chad Greenwalt were sworn in at the beginning of the January 22nd regular meeting by County Clerk Gaylon Hale.

Following the swearing in, the board decided to keep the same board officers: President Mason Sickel, VicePresident Rusty Rogers, and Secretary Kay Penn. All board members were present.

The students of Hazen Elementary were recognized for their 73% increase in growth on IStation testing.

According to Angie Williams, the elementary math specialist, grades K-6 showed a 63% growth in reading, with the classes of Donna Alexander and Lisa Martin having the most growth.

Elementary students were treated to a “red cape” assembly in December to celebrate the growth with a pep rally and games.

In other business, the board approved the legal transfer of a 4th grade student from Clarendon and purchased Educators legal Liability/Employment Practices Liability insurance for 2024-25 for $11,054.

The board revisited the Personnel Policies

Committee’s (PPC) request to allow teachers to take four early leaves from school in the afternoon each year in exchange for ½ of a personal day.

The request was tabled at the last meeting. The proposal was passed with President Mason Sickel breaking a three for and three against tie.

PPC President Susan Booth said that her committee will try to work on personnel policies during the summer before the PPC handbook is voted on by the board.

High School Principal Amy Marek announced that the annual honors banquet will be held on Monday, March 29. She also plans to have a senior/parent breakfast for graduating seniors before the graduation practice. Austyn Booth was signed to play softball at Central Baptist College in Conway.

Elementary Principal Laura Saranie told the board that her building had a dance party and class Christmas parties in December and that IStation testing will begin in the week of January 29 to collect the January data.

Superintendent Andy Barrett will ask for a waiver to start school as early as August 12 in 2024. There was also

some discussion about possibly changing to a “year round school” model. The staff will be surveyed to get their input.

Barrett said that he has been working on facility improvements, with lighting at the football field as a priority.

The board agreed to walk through the facilities to see what needs to be done in order to get a vision and direction on what the district needs to do before the next meeting.

Barrett also said that Michael McBryde from Stephens will come to the February meeting to give the board an update on the district’s financial status.

After a 30 minute executive session after which no action was taken, the board voted to renew Superintendent Barrett’s contract for another three years. The board then accepted the resignation of Paraprofessional Martha Williams, effective January 8, 2024. They also voted to reinstate a suspended student with the provision that the student attend ALE. The next regular school board meeting will be held on Monday, February 12, in the high school library at 6:00 p.m.

Garth, Hasley on Dean’s List Leigh Garth, of Des Arc, a Senior studying elementary education, and Julia Hasley, of Des Arc, a Senior studying elementary education are among more than 1,300 Harding University students

included on the dean's list for grades achieved during the Fall 2023 semester.

The dean's list is published each semester by Dr. Marty Spears, University provost, honoring those who have

achieved high scholarship. To be eligible, a student must be carrying 12 or more hours with a 3.65 or higher grade-point average and no incompletes.

Des Arc Jury Pool for January - April 2024 Des Arc Jury Pool January – April 2024 Stacey L Adams Tanya J Agnew Chester W Allwhite Wesley L Barnett Everett E Barrentine Davis W Bell Gregory D Bell Tony L Bell Megan D Bethell Terry E Bice Joel M Buck Terri L Buck Jeffrey R Bugiel Kyla J Bush Rebecca L Bush Bennie C Butler Aaron T Cain Brandon L Cain Shelby A Cain Jeffery B Calhoun Virginia L Calhoun Paul C Campbell-Lensing Hayden Childers Jacie K Childers Stacy A Childers Paul Cobb

Kelvin D Cohen Alison C Cox Reva Crisel Serena L Crook Gary Cunningham Allison A Davis Madalyn M Davis Matthew L Davis Vickie I Dougherty Ronald L Dunlap Abbey J Eans Clifton L Edwards Micheal D Elliott Robin D English Jason G Etheridge Samantha L Ethridge Kathryn A Ewing Dewanna L Fields Helen M Fields Christopher R Fisher Matthew C Fisher Tiffany L Fisher Krystal M Garcia Troy L Geisler Jennifer K Gentry Shauna J Gilbraith Claudia Gonzalez Jonathan R Gonzalez

Meagan J Gore John M Gray Charleen D Green Shannon V Greenawalt Bailey N Greenwood Candace L Gross Gayle E Guess Julia M Hambrick Laura J Hampton Hailey L Hardin Julia M Hasley Aubrey D Haynes Crystal M Haynes Brenda Herring Kriztain W Hickerson Chloe M Higgins Lisa L Hill Matthew H Hill Yvonne D Hill Dwight R Hill, III Mary R Hodges Aaron D Holloway Dwight W Holloway Jacob L Holloway Justus E Holloway Patricia A Holloway Bonita D Howland Betty J Huffstickler

Drake A Ingle Marcus C Inman Kenneth D James Ricky L Johnson Rochelle Johnson Timothy B Johnson William C Kearby Thomas J Kilgore James D Kirk Robin L Kirkland Denise M Lampkin Donna S Lewis Kimberly Lewis Burnett Mark E Lisko Carla M Long Sherry M Mack Michael L Madar James H McDaniel James H McDonald Eileen B McFarlin Karen McMillen William E McMullen, Jr Norman R Metcalf John W Mills Jacob D Minton Dawson C Moye Clara B Newton Paul D Norman

Janice G Parker Erika Parson Zachary D Payne William B Petrillo, Jr Andrea R Polk Jerry E Poole Nicole J Reid Tammy L Roberts Velda E Rogers Donnie L Sanderson Kelly D Sanner Mary F Sanner Charels D Sears Riley K Seevers Nichole R Sims Deborah R Skarda Patrick W Skarda Jamie D Skinner Anna Smallwood Adam L Smith Charles D Smith Connie D Smith Sarah M Smith Cindy G Stallings Charles D Stanley James W Tallent Zylar A Taylor Robert E Thatcher

April M Thomas Eddie L Thompson Savanna M Thornton Leona M Travis Natalie J Treadwell Tyler D Treadwell Janet L Turnage Alan L Vincent Linda K Voiles Shelly J Voiles Brenda S Wallace Marlaya F Washington Charles L Waters Norma J Watson Robert L Weatherley Sonia M Weatherley Lottie J White Theresa M Whiting Kenneth N Whiting, Jr Linda D Whittaker Kayla D Wiley Kevin N Willhite Eric O Williams, Jr Tracey A Wolfe Katie J Wolfenbarger Randi M Youngblood

Page 4 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Prairie County Election Commission

Notification Preferential Primary, Non-Partisan Judicial General & Annual School Election

March 5, 2024 Early Voting February 20, 2024 to March 4, 2024 Voters wishing to cast an early voting ballot may begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

Hours 8 AM until 6 PM at the Des Arc and DeValls Bluff Courthouses.

Saturday voting hours will be from10 AM to 4 PM. The last day for casting an early voting ballot will end on Monday March 4, 2024 at 5 PM. Early Voting and Absentee Ballot tabulation will be at 4 PM in the County Clerk’s office at the Des Arc Courthouse on March 5, 2024.

On March 5, 2024 the polls will open at 7:30 AM and close at 7:30 PM Polling Sites: 1. Belcher /Tyler---Slovak Community Center 2. Bullard/Hickory Plains---Hickory Plains Methodist Church 3. Calhoun---Sand Hill Fire Station 4. Center/Union---Prairie County Fairgrounds 5. Des Arc---North Side Community Center 6. Hazen Ward 1,2,3 and Hazen Country ---Hazen Civic Center 7. Lower Hill City/ Lower Hill Country and Upper Hill ---Biscoe Fire Station 8. Roc Roe City/Country---Ulm Community Center 9. Wattensaw City/ Country---DeValls Bluff City Hall 10. White River, Ward 1,2,3 and White River Country---Des Arc Methodist Church After the polls close the precinct ballots will be tabulated at the Prairie County Courthouse in Des Arc. The Prairie County Election Commission along with the Prairie County Clerk’s office will tabulate the unofficial results from the voting machines.

The Prairie County Election Commission will certify the official results within 15 days after the election to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office.

A list of election officials working the March 5, 2024 Preferential Primary, Non-Partisan and Annual School Board Election will be posted in February 7, 2024 in the Prairie County Clerk’s office in Des Arc and DeValls Bluff. If there is any objection to a poll worker it must be filed within 7 days of the posting to the Prairie County Election Commission.

Prairie County Election Commission Rita Dobson Chairperson----501 516 7264 Stan Ferguson 501 516 6156 Harvey Joe Sanner----501 516 7000 For Additional Information Call Prairie County Clerk Des Arc 870-256-4434

Page 5 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 31, 2024

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical Keith Knupp 501.516.8285 knuppinc@hotmail.com

The Central Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc. will be accepting applications/resumes for a Career Consultant to work in the Arkansas Workforce Center at Lonoke, Arkansas serving Lonoke, Monroe and Prairie County.

Career Consultant must possess a formal education equivalent of an associate degree and additional experience in the delivery of job training or people oriented services will be a plus; applicants must be self motivated and able to effectively communicate accurately in both oral and written modes; Related or equivalent education or experience may be substituted; must have computer skills; must be able to work with little supervision; and must have reliable transportation and be willing to travel in the Central area, as needed.

Applicant selected to fill the position will be required to submit to Criminal background checks and drug screening after a conditional offer of employment, unless you currently have a background check on file.

Interested applicants should submit a resume to Tina Roush at CAPDD, P.O. Box 300, Lonoke, AR 72086 or tina.roush@capdd.org.

Resumes must be accepted until this position is filled by a qualified applicant.

CAPDD is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program; and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

DeValls Bluff Police Department is accepting applications for a part time officer. Pick up application at the DeValls Bluff City Hall.

I am looking for a woman to help take care of a disabled elderly man. Light house cleaning and cooking is required. Some driving is required if a valid D.L. is legal. Only serious inquiries only. Call 501-2885006.

3 bedroom, 2 bath brick home with fireplace in Des Arc near the elementary school. One car garage with storm cellar, backyard shop building, and large fenced in backyard. Kitchen appliances, washer and dryer included. Call 501-858-7407 or 870-256-5758.

FREE PUPPY Healthy Gorgeous English bulldog pup available for a new home. Free to a caring family. The dog is registered and has had all of its shots. Email me for more information: washingtonriley18@gmail.com.

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Page 6 - The Grand Prairie Herald - Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Ozark Mission Project builds ramp in Hazen On Friday, January 26, members of the Ozark Mission Project, along with volunteers from the community of Hazen, got together to build a handicap ramp in front of a trailer located in Hazen. The owner of the trailer is disabled and was having difficulty getting into his home. All materials for the project were donated, and it took about 6 hours for the work to be completed.

Ozark Mission Project has existed since 1986 with the simple goal of transforming lives through worship, fellowship, and hands-on mission. They continue to see a significant need across Arkansas communities. Many residents cannot safely access their homes or complete necessary repair and care projects for their homes.

For 38 years, OMP has brought together youth and adult volunteers together in a Christ-centered program to help meet these needs. They encourage a life-long love of service through the projects completed, the lessons learned, and most importantly, the relationships built. In other words, OMP exists

to build community and serve our neighbors.

Beyond the projects that they do, they aim to foster connections that transform neighborhoods and churches into closer, more supportive communities.

OMP was was born out of a United Methodist Church but now brings together volunteers from many different denominations coming from several different states.

They now bring close to 1000 volunteers together each year. Some of projects they completed this past summer, in addition to building relationship with our neighbors, was to build 52 wheel chair ramps, 40 porches, 51 sets of steps and handrails, paint many homes and complete lots of yardwork. OMP helped with tornado clean up in Wynne and partnered with another nonprofit to build 35 beds for children in Washington and Benton county who had been previously sleeping on the floor.

OMP relies on grants, special offerings and individual gifts to close the gap between summer participation fees and what it really costs to fully operate a mis-

sion week and to provide year round assistance for our neighbors, like our Hazen neighbor.

This summer, they will be in communities all over Arkansas but closer to Hazen, in North Little Rock, Maumelle and Forrest City. They are always looking for partners to host a meal for their volunteer leadership teams or a meal for our whole mission group. People with construction skills can volunteer in the summer with the community builders and during the year for urgent needs.

Year round, they get urgent accessibility needs that need immediate attention, so they look to volunteers and sponsors to complete those projects.

These are just a few ways that individuals, churches, civic organizations and businesses can be involved with OMP. Their Community D e v e l o p m e n t Coordinator, Karen Anderson, would love to talk with anyone personally about how to get involved. Karen can be reached at kanderson@ozarkmissionproject.org.

Slovak holds annual oyster supper...

Men were lined up for about a block waiting to get into the annual Slovak Oyster Supper held at the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Fellowship Hall last Friday, January 26. The wait was long, but the food was excellent according to attendees.

DeValls Bluff Courthouse jury pool January-April 2024 DeValls Bluff Jury Pool January – April 2024 Ryan K Abel Jackie D Adcock Bobbie R Alberson James A Alberson Geraldine Allsup Terry A Ashmore Jacquelyn S Ayala Jennifer M Berry Kendrick L Blackard Paul L Blaylock Barbara J Boehn Bobby F Bonds Bobby F Bonds, Jr Cecilee F Boothe Holly C Boothe Tyler J Boudreaux Kelly D Clifton Steve Cohen Mary I Conell Marilyn Conner Tanesha L Conner Halley L Cossey Nicholas Costea, III Dax G Cox

Tyler Crosby Mischelle L Cullum Taylor M Cullum Zachary R Dale Allen D Densmore Jayme E Dixon Timothy A Doepel Kelly F Douglas Dale A Duell, Jr Stephanie Y Duncan Alice F Dunlap Michael E Edge Stacy A Edge Sharon A Ferguson Opal L Flippo Robert C Fogerty, Jr Elizabeth G Foot Leslie J Gaddy Kelly P Gilmore Pamela G Governor Johnny M Graham Jimmy Guenther, Jr Kathy J Hahn Anthony L Hardmon, Jr Jesse D Hartley Donna L Helms Donna M Hendricks

Jamie D Hickman Amy Holmes Chasity E Howell Illiana Hurt Jason A Jackson Bryanna N Jones Burl E Jordan Timothy J Juola Lisa K Keffer Robert P Kerr, II Bryan C Kieffer Kamden M Kieffer Craig M Lee Tiffeny M Leonard Timothy W Lindsey Rachel M Lisko Tammy T McDonald Rita J McElwaine Jonathon K McMullen Tia M McMullen Anthony R Melcher Deanna M Melcher

Latasha C Metcalf Terence C Metcalf Frederick D Metcalf, Jr Matha J Miller Barry L Mills Jennie R Mills Vera H Moore Jagur C Morgan Kathleen Morrison Rita N Nail John J Nielsen Angela M Norton Drew M Parish Billy D Paschal Billy D Paschal, Jr Monika N Patel Nevil M Patel Eric C Pearson Mary K Perry Dewayne A Pledger Elizabeth A Prine Philip I Prine

Charliene R Raines Daniel E Randleas Leah E Raper John L Reinhart, Sr Michael E Reitz Freddie Rogers, Jr Linda A Roy Bridget L Rupe Jeremiah S Rupe Stephanie R Sayger Laney C Shultz Jennifer M Smith Tracey E Smith Ronny G Snead Cheryl A Starr Taylor E Strong Tracie A Strong Terry D Sullins Misty Swaim Cassandra L Thomas Morgan F Tosh Vina D Tosh

Sue H Tschoepe Amanda M Turner Molly D Vick Autumn A Walker Fay C Wallace Ketrina A Wallace Mathew A Wallace Mark A Wallace, Jr Kenneth J Wallin, Jr Michelle L Weems Dianna J White Leah N White Rosie L White Joseph S Willeford Curtis L Wilson Jarrod W Wilson Toni A Wilson Curtis L Wilson, Jr Micaela R Wine Christopher A Wright

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