Politics

The latest census figures show 17.8% of our state’s population is over the age of 65. Nationwide, the population ages 65 and over grew nearly five times faster than the total population over the 100 years from 1920 to 2020.

August 21 is National Senior Citizens Day. It’s an opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives.

The Arkansas General Assembly has worked to pass legislation to empower people to choose how they live as they age. This year, we passed laws to lower taxes, strengthen our rural hospitals, and increase awareness and services available to those with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

In the 2023 Regular Session, we also worked to eliminate the red tape for seniors still in the workforce. Act 73 creates a lifetime certificate of license for contractors who have reached the age of 65 and have been licensed as a contractor for at least 12 years.

Protecting our seniors involves safeguarding them from abuse and exploitation. We did that with Act 783. This created the Vulnerable Person

Protection Act. It defines a vulnerable person as anyone over the age of 69 or an individual who is in an inpatient facility. It makes the abuse of a vulnerable person a Class B felony if it causes serious injury or death and a Class D felony for non-serious injuries.

In addition, we passed Act 70, Act 335, and Act 682. Act 70 requires home caregivers to have a specific number of hours in dementia training. Act 335 sets minimum training requirements for staff members who are employed by an assisted living facility that includes persons with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Act 682 creates the position of dementia services coordinator with the Department of Human Services.

National Senior Citizens Day serves as a call to action to ensure our seniors are treated with the respect and care they deserve. As we continue to find ways to improve their lives in the state, let us all take the time this week to increase our interaction with our elders. Their stories can inspire and their guidance can lead to a more thoughtful and compassionate society.

During the 2023 session the Arkansas legislature enacted a lengthy list of new laws to strengthen the integrity of the elections.

Act 620 grants more power to the state Board of Election Commissioners to detect and prevent voter fraud. The board has been conducting an audit after each general election, and Act 620 requires an audit after primary elections also. The new law sets up a review of elections every two years for the board to investigate any indications of wrongdoing, primarily in absentee voting and voter registration.

Act 620 makes it a felony to forge someone’s signature on applications for voter registration or for absentee ballots.

Act 444 outlines the rights of poll watchers, to ensure access to all parts of the election process. Poll watchers must complete an online training course, set up by the state board of Election Commissioners.

The main goal of Act 444 is to make sure that poll watchers have uniform and fair access to all stages of the voting process. For example, they’re to be allowed within three to six feet of the check-in area.

Poll watchers may bring a list of eligible voters and may challenge a ballot by speaking to an election official. However, they may not interfere with anyone’s ability to vote, either by harassment, intimidation or coercion. They must wear name tags and may not wear political badges promoting a candidate or an issue.

Bruce Westerman 101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901

Phone: (501) 609-9796

Fax: (501) 609-9887

Act 441 requires the Secretary of State to use multiple strategies to ensure the integrity of voter registration lists.

One strategy is to compare our lists with those in other states, to prevent a person from registering and voting in more than one state. Another strategy is to make full use of the Social Security Administration’s file of people who have died.

The Secretary of State’s office will develop an address verification process. The office will report annually to the legislative Joint Performance Review Committee on the accuracy of voter registration records.

Act 353 prohibits county election officials from using a drop box for the collection of absentee ballots. Unless absentee ballots are sent through the mail, they must be delivered into the hands of someone in the physical office of the county clerk.

Act 320 also tightens the rules governing absentee ballots. It requires anyone who goes to the county clerk to drop off absentee ballots for another person to present a photo ID. Anyone who helps a voter fill out an application for an absentee ballot must provide his or her name, address and signature on the application.

Act 320 prohibits county clerks from distributing unsolicited absentee ballots or applications to potential voters. County clerks may make the applications generally available online or in their office.

Act 141 creates a new criteria to allow a voter to use an absentee ballot. If you are prevented from voting in person due to an observance of your religious discipline or due to a religious holiday, you will be eligible to vote absentee.

Act 462 changes the laws governing the creation of new political parties. It requires 10,000 signatures to establish a new political party ballot. The threshold had been 3 percent of the total votes cast in the most recent race or governor.

Mae

“Elizabeth” Denny

Mae “Elizabeth” Denny, age 90, of Morocco, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, August 16, 2023, in Brook, Indiana. She was born on Tuesday, August 30, 1932, to James Norman Hamilton and Cleo Thompson Hamilton in Sumrall, Mississippi.

Elizabeth was a member at the First Baptist Church of Mena where she was recognized as a prayer warrior, often leading her community in prayer and guiding them through faith. Her unwavering faith and trust in the Lord were examples to all. She loved to sing in the choir, attend Sunday School classes and play the harmonica for people.

A co-valedictorian of her high school class in 1950, Elizabeth showed early on her commitment to hard work and diligence and was also a member of the BETA Club. She worked for General Mills in the Quality Control Department for over 17 years in West Chicago, Illinois. Elizabeth was also an active member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. She strongly believed in the importance of fellowship and community service.

She enjoyed listening to Gospel and Classical music. Her other hobbies included traveling and gardening, both of which she found spiritually enriching. Elizabeth was a staunch advocate of cancer research, having witnessed the devastating effects the disease can have on loved ones. Her life was a testament to the golden rule, treating others as she wished to be treated.

Elizabeth loved her two cats, Tebow and Tiger dearly. Her husband, the late Horace, was the love of her life, and their relationship was a source of great happiness for her. However, most important to Elizabeth was her relationship with the Lord and her family, whom she loved unconditionally. Her faith, wisdom, and loving spirit will be missed but never forgotten.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Horace Denny; three brothers, Charles Hamilton, Fredrick Hamilton, and Ray Hamilton; and one sister, Frances Jordon.

Elizabeth is survived by her son, Terrell Hebert of Germany; one daughter, Rebecca Gaylord of Morocco, Indiana; five grandchildren, Sarah Jacobsen, Jacob Lowery, Christopher Hebert, Jared Estes, and Jordon Estes; two great-grandchildren, Ava Jerman and Jackson Estes; her favorite niece, Gloria Hester; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Ron Tilley and Brother Jim Tennery officiating. Interment will follow the service at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Bereavement Fund.

Online guestbook: bowserffh.com

Bobby Frank Hughes

Mr. Bobby Frank Hughes, age 90, passed away Thursday, August 10, 2023, at New Braunfels, Texas. He was born June 29, 1933, in Mena, Arkansas, to Belulah Hughes and William A. Hughes.

Bobby was a devoted husband and father, who was also a trusted support for his community, friends and family. He served in the Army, Airforce and Army Reserves. He lived in Houston, Texas, where he was a skilled machinist for Texaco. He enjoyed a lovely social life in the mid-century suburbs, where he built treehouses, go-karts and mo- torbikes for his thankful son.

Mr. Hughes is survived by his wife, Joyce M. Hughes; son, William B. Hughes; granddaughter, Elizabeth J. Hughes; sisters, Gail Ora Engh, Gwen Dola Williams; nieces, Sherry Williams Hula, Natalie Williams Griffin; nephews, Greg Mitchell, and Jeff Mitchell.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Raymond Hughes, and by his sisters, Helen Bettencourt and Kate Wear.

Graveside services for Mr. Hughes will be held Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas. Brother Brian Richardson will be officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Betty Sue Weatherford

Betty Sue Weatherford, age 91, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Sunday, August 20, 2023, in Mena, Arkansas. She was born on Wednesday, July 13, 1932, to Ira Coffman and Ludie Bell Davis in Hopper, Arkansas.

Betty was of the Church of Christ faith, where she found great peace and fellowship. Her faith was an important part of her life and offered guidance and solace during difficult times. Betty enjoyed listening to old Country music. She nurtured a love for the simple pleasures in life, such as the company of animals and the tranquility of fishing. An accomplished crocket quilter, her beautiful creations warmed many homes and hearts. Betty also made sock monkeys for many that she loved, and was very talented at any craft she attempted. She found peace planting garden flower beds in her yard. Her passion for these activities was contagious, inspiring those around her to appreciate the beauty of life’s simple moments.

Above all, Betty was renowned for her warm spirit and life lessons. She believed in spreading love and being good to others. Anchored in her conviction of doing what is right, she became a guiding light to many. One of her proudest moments was winning the Senior Fishing Derby at Lum and Abner. However, the jewel in Betty’s life was undoubtedly her two adopted daughters. These girls were the apple of her eye, and she cherished every moment she spent with them. Her love for her daughters was deep and unyielding, embodying the essence of motherhood. Betty’s life was a testament to her kindness, resilience, and unwavering faith. Her friends and family will deeply miss her spirited laughter, comforting presence, and the wisdom she shared.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Clyde Weatherford; three brothers, Troy Coffman, Eugene Coffman, and Bobby Coffman; and three sisters, Retha Golden, Frances Thweatt, and Lucille Coffman.

Betty is survived by her two daughters and son-in-law, Margie McAnally of Arkadelphia, and Karen and Steve Slagle of New Walla, Oklahoma; one sister, Ila Betie of Shreveport, Louisiana; six grandchildren, Tara Chapell of New Walla, Oklahoma, Brian Slagle of New Walla, Oklahoma, Cole McAnally of Arkadelphia, Parker McAnally of Arkadelphia, Shelby McAnally of Arkadelphia, and Carson McAnally of Arkadelphia; three great-grandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Hopper Cemetery in Caddo Gap, Arkansas, with Brother Robbie Loudermilk officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home.

Online guestbook: bowserffh.com

Don Wayne Brown

Don Wayne Brown, age 67, passed away August 2, 2023, at home with the Elite Hospice. Thanks, God, for the help. He was born February 25, 1956, to Jimmie Monroe Brown and Clemmie Arvuile Grandberry in Reeves County, Texas.

Don was known as a house painter. He took pride in his work. He worked for Dewayne Morgan.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie Monroe Brown and Clemmie Arvuile Grandberry, and son Don Wayne Brown.

He is survived by Sheila M. Schumacher and sister Sheila Roberts, sister Carolyn Gilliam and John Gilliam, uncle Rex Brown and lots of cousins, nieces and a grandchild.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 26 at 1:00 p.m. at Freewill Baptist Church, 411 Petros Ave., Mena. Brother Donnie Jewell will be officiating.

James J. Brett

Mr. James J. Brett, age 82, passed away, Thursday, August 17, 2023, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born November 22, 1940, to the late James Brett and Mary (Jones) Brett, in Duckett, Arkansas.

Mr. Brett was an engineer by profession, working for General Telephone, and continuing to do contracting work for phone companies, after his retirement. James was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, and a Mason. James was an outdoorsman at heart, he enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, basketball, farming, and travelling. Mr. Brett also had his private pilot license and enjoyed flying his plane.

James is preceded in death by his parents, James Brett and Mary (Jones) Brett, and by his sister, Betty Gentry.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Wanda (Wilkins) Brett; daughter, Angela Brett of Little Rock, Arkansas; sons, James Brett and wife Nicole, of Wickes, Arkansas, Jason Brett and wife Kari, of St. Michael, Minnesota; grandchildren, James Brett, Madelynn Brett, Cameron Brett, Drew Brett; sister, Christine Pinson of Langley, Arkansas; and by his aunt, Margaret Brett.

Services for Mr. James Brett will be held, Monday, August 21, 2023, at the Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, at 10:00 a.m. Brother Scott Ray will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Duckett Cemetery in Wickes, Arkansas. There will be a scheduled visitation held, Sunday, August 20, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Pallbearers are Johnny Barrett, Allen Lowery, Tim Smedley, Brett Gentry, Bob Pinson, and Chief Bush.

Honorary Pallbearers are the members of the Mason Lodge #548 of Wickes, Arkansas.

The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Skin Deep Medical Spa to the Chamber membership with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Skin Deep offers a wide variety of products/procedures designed to make you look and feel young. Check them out at www.arkskindeep.com/ .

They are located at 400 Port Arthur Ave., in Mena. They can be reached at 479-234-3161.

Grannis citizens approve first-ever sales tax-deductible

By Patrick Massey

GRANNIS – Grannis voters cast their support for the city’s first-ever sales tax during a vote held on Tuesday, Aug. 8.

In all, 60 people cast their ballots during the sales tax election – 37 for and 23 against. The measure was approved and will mark the first time the City of Grannis has ever implemented a sales tax.

The one-cent sales tax will be levied on the sale of goods and services within the city limits of Grannis.

Grannis Mayor Dwight Billings said the additional revenue will help the city maintain the 17 miles of roads for which Grannis is responsible.

“That’s a lot of roads for a community our size and as everyone knows, fixing them isn’t cheap these days,” Billings said. “This sales tax is really going to help us tackle some of the road issues we’re having.”

Billings added that he is thankful to all the Grannis citizens who came out to vote during the election and support the new sales tax.

“The city can’t be more appreciative to those folks for coming out and voting in support of this measure,” Billings said. “This is going to be a good thing for our community.”

By Richie Lawry

In June 2022, an obituary was published in Bay City, Michigan: “Lonzo F. Green of Gladwin, Michigan passed away on June 17, 2022. He was born on August 14, 1928, to Frank and Melverta Green in Cherry Valley, Arkansas. He was a member of Good Shepherd Church and the Michigan Bluegrass Hall of Fame. He enjoyed attending church, Preaching, playing music, and spending time with family. He was active with Wilma Caraview, often attending church together, visiting friends, and playing music together.”

At the end of his life, Lonzo wasn’t known outside his friends, family, and community, but that wasn’t the case when he was young. Frank and Melverta Green raised Lonzo in a Christian home and paired him with his younger brother, Forrest, to sing at churches and revivals throughout Arkansas. He worked in the fields with his family and was always close to the land and the rich musical heritage of his neighbors.

In 1951, Lonzo and his wife Maxine moved to Flint, Michigan, with other members of the Green family. Lonzo, Maxine, his brother Forrest, and Forrest’s wife Margie sang gospel music throughout Michigan as The Green Family. They also had a one-hour radio program on WMRP in Flint, Michigan. At that time, Forrest met businessman Rudy Kotelas who believed in his music and sponsored his first record in Nashville, Tennessee.

After getting their start in Nashville, Forrest recorded “Rain Must Be Teardrops” and “Day for Leaving” on Ranger Records, which made the national charts! At that time, these were Michigan’s No. 1 selling country records! The success of his records led Forrest to perform on the Grand Ole Opry and shows through-out the United States and Canada. When Forrest began touring nationally, Lonzo decided that life on the road wasn’t for him. Although Forrest Green spent his life performing and running a recording studio and record label, Lonzo faded into obscurity.