Vol. 1
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ACLE No. 1
Jan. 28, 2021
Arkadelphia plant SGL Carbon Henderson State University scholars to expand with $4.5 million
Photo courtesy of SGL Carbon.
Last week it was announced that SGL Carbon, a major carbon-based solution producer for automotives, will sink $4.5 million in its existing facility in Arkadelphia.
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – SGL Carbon, a provider of carbon-based solutions for automotives, aerostructures, and other sectors, today announced that it will expand its operations in Arkadelphia, Ark. in order to increase its carbon composites production. The company plans to invest approximately $4.5 million at its existing facility and increase its workforce by 35 full-time employees within three years. “Composite battery enclosures fit perfectly to the specific needs of modern ecar chassis,” Steve Swanson, Vice President of Operations at SGL Composites Inc., said. “Thus, with the ongoing enhancement of our Arkadelphia operations, we also support the great trend towards more e-mobility in the U.S. In addition, our facility produces a variety of carbon and glass fiber-reinforced products for a wide range of industrial applications within the automotive and aerospace industries as well as the energy sector.” The company’s Arkadelphia facility currently produces a variety of carbon and glass fiber-reinforced products that have a wide range of industrial applica-
tions within the automotive and aerospace industries as well as the energy sector. SGL Carbon will expand its Arkadelphia operations by ramping up production of carbon composites to be used primarily in electric vehicles. “SGL Carbon is not only a global leader and innovator, it is also a valued member of our state’s business community – a position it has held since it began production here in 1996,” Governor Asa Hutchinson said. “It’s a pleasure to congratulate the company for its continued investment in Arkadelphia. We look forward to many more years of partnership in the future.” For decades, SGL Carbon has served as a leading producer of unique graphite and composite materials and manufacturer of products known for their versatile industrial applications. Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary and Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Mike Preston praised SGL Carbon’s decision to expand its Arkansas operations. “The strength of our workforce in southwest Arkansas, partnered with our
low cost of doing business, makes Arkadelphia a prime location for SGL Carbon’s new production processes,” Secretary Preston said. “We look forward to our continued partnership with the company as it embarks on this new endeavor.” The project also received support from local community partners. “The Economic Development Corporation of Clark County is pleased to partner with one of our local industries to promote job creation and expansion,” said EDCCC Chairman Celya Taylor. “This announcement shows our local tax dollars play an important role in encouraging job creation in Clark County.” Arkadelphia City Manager Gary Brinkley said, “We are thrilled about the news that SGL will be ramping up its production and hiring additional employees. SGL’s corporate philosophy of partnering with their customers is the same philosophy we follow in Clark County, partnering with our industries for job retention and expansion. The soundness of the Arkadelphia workforce coupled with the quality of life we enjoy in southwest Arkansas is
truly a win-win scenario for everyone.” County Judge Troy Tucker said, “We are excited about the future expansion of SGL Carbon in Clark County and with the future possibilities of this company.” The company anticipates that the production expansion will be fully operational by the end of 2021. About SGL Carbon Employing around 5,100 people, SGL Carbon is a global company with more than 31 high-performing production sites in Europe, North America, and Asia. The company is a world leader in the development and production of carbonbased solutions. Its highquality materials and products made from specialty graphite and composites are used in industrial sectors that determine the future: automotive, aerospace, solar and wind energy, semiconductor and LEDs as well as in the production of lithium-ion batteries, fuel cell and other energy storage systems. In addition, SGL Carbon develops solutions for chemical and industrial applications.
Scott County homicide and Johnson County shooting under investigation Arkansas State Police Public Affairs Office
Arkansas State Police Special Agents are investigating an apparent homicide reported to the Scott County Sheriff’s Department earlier today. A resident at 1091 Ross Creek Road south of Waldron contacted the sheriff’s department at 4:10 AM to report hearing gunshots. Upon their arrival outside the home, deputies found a deceased female sitting in a pick-up truck passenger seat. State Police special agents later today identified the victim as Brehana Lee Duran, 24, of Booneville. The body will be examined at the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory to determine the
manner and cause of death. A man who attempted to flee from Waldron police officers earlier today and who matches the description of the driver last seen in the truck found on Ross Creek Road is being questioned by state police. The Arkansas State Police is investigating an officer involved shooting incident that occurred in the Knoxville community south of Clarksville about 11:20 AM today. Johnson County sheriff’s deputies had been searching for Randal Schabell, 23, of Knoxville after receiving reports of vehicle tires being slashed by an individual believed to be Schabell. As Schabell drove his truck onto the driveway of
a residence at 168 Private Road 3289, Johnson County officers pulled in behind him. Schabell fled by driving the truck around the residence, then attempted to run over the officers who fired on the driver. Schabell continued to flee, but encountered an Arkansas State Police patrol car and rammed his truck into the patrol car, leading the trooper to open fire on the driver. Schabell was taken into custody and transported to an area hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident. Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division are
leading the investigation and will submit an investigative file to the Johnson County prosecuting attorney who will determine if the use of deadly force by law enforcement officers was consistent with Arkansas laws. Felony charges against Schabell are pending. Questions relating to the administrative status of Johnson County Sheriff’s Department personnel should be directed to the sheriff’s department. As required by Arkansas State Police policy relating to the use of deadly force, one Arkansas State Trooper has been placed on paid administrative leave.
Pertinent information on the move to Oracle: Community Edition Pete Tubbs Editor in Chief
As stated in the final issue of the Arkadelphia Dispatch, that paper will no longer print. What you have probably already surmised if you are reading this, however, is that our town’s news will continue in Oracle: Community Edition. For the most part, everything is remaining the same. I am still your Editor in Chief, and I still have the
same great staff. Some things will change, though. For one, you can no longer reach us at arkadelphiadispatch@gmail.com. The new email for Oracle: Community Edition is oraclece@gmail.com. The phone number, though, will remain the same at 870230-5221. We will continue to put our stories on hsuoracle. com, and our full issues can be found on that website as
well as issuu.com. The pick up spots will remain the same as well. Along with our ever popular Brookshire’s location, the assorted convenience stores, library, etc. will carry this paper just as they did the Dispatch. While the move to the Oracle: CE was a wild ride, it’s not over yet. We’d like to improve this paper as much as we can over the coming weeks.
If you or anyone you know has any suggestions on changes to the paper or its content, please don’t be afraid to contact us. Also, I would encourage any businesses in search of advertising to contact us as well. Thank you all for supporting us through this change. We look forward to serving the city for as long as we can, and we can’t wait for feedback.
Arkadelphia Dean’s list grad: Erica L Bailey, Emily J Blanton, Tracee F Brown, Brett C Burks, Saba F Chaudry, Raegan E Cheatham, Natalie B Cook, Sabrina E Cooper, Mary E Farley, Darla C Fishback, Elizabeth H Fisk, Janet G Franks,Allie E Giuliano, Darla G Givens, Katja Hajdinjak, Courtlin B Haygarth, Rebekkah D Hughley, Taylor A Johnson, Amarya A Jones, Brian A Koller, James R Loy, Brookes J Mays, John M McManus, Gina L Milam, Payton N Morris, Joseph G Myers, Wallace M Senter, Cody J Sparks, Lisa A Stanley, Anna L Thibodeaux, Claire E Thomas, Jordyn A Troy, Wade L Tubbs, Katlynn N Williams, Laci D Williams, Railey D Williams, Aubrey M Wilson, Dawn M Coffman Dean’s list undergrad: Mary J Adame, Kacie E Allen, Alexis N Boyer, Jeremy A Brents, Maci I Davis, Carley E Goff, Hannah M Hodge, Scott J Holbrook, Mykiah R Overstreet, Shreeyad Pant, Lorish Puluspene, Jenna L Purifoy, Gabriela a San Pedro, Nicole Schranz, Kelly N Stiles, Kenley Turner Honors list grad: Charles N Blacknall, Michelle A Carter, Tia C Gulley, Dalton A Guthrie, Nyasia L Harris, Charles R Lane, Cecilia N Lock, Micah L Resnick, Lesa E Simpson Honors list undergrad: Joseph R Andrews, Michael L Ankton-Evans, Raquel M Baes, Baylee N Bethell, Autumn B Blankenship, Matthew R Bosley, Magen C Bright, Tea N Burgess, Tiara M Burgess, Chloe E Cline, Georgia G Davis, Abdel Nasser Djibril Hamidou, Bailey A Dougan, Caitlyn M Engelhorn, Heathman G Ennis, Hannah E Fenocchi, Diedra R Green, Shanna M Harrison, Jayla L Henderson, Kenzi A Land, Blanton C Matthews, August N McClure, Lacarol R Newborn, Lori A Norwood, Turner G Pentecost, Brandon C Rook, Maegan D Schweitzer, Breanna P Shelby, Nicholas B Shuffield, Jun Young Song, Ashlyn G Taylor, Sydney L Thoeny, Tolman Vo, Ashley Whittle Benton Dean’s list grad: Paige D Cullins, Kristin D Dickerson, Roxana L Gosvener, Jordan E Hiblong, Alexis M Jefferson, Ashlee D Mays, Deanna L McGrew Dean’s list undergrad: Seth F Ambort, Taylor R Banks, Abigail A Brockway, Maria C Carmona, Rebecca Garcia-Balderas, Alana A Guthrie, Janae M Guthrie, Connor B Hilton, Emily E Hughes, Kiara Jackson, Macy E Johnson, Angel Juarez, Serenity A Myers, Shelby R Myers, Melissa T Sledd, Delilah J Ward, Aidan A Watson Honors list grad: Victoria L Viera Honors list undergrad: Auxilius J Ambort, Justin T Beard, Ethan T Buggar, Jason B Caple, Jackson O Carder, Anthony B Carman, Carson R Cates, Graham C Chenault, Katie L Clifton, Jessica A Cullins, Andrew A Davis, Jesse M De La Cruz, Matthew E Glover, Samuel E Harrison, Hayden S Hilson, Lauren A Jones, Natalie E Keen Atkins, Parker M Lashbrook, Karissa R Lindsey, Carmen C Little, Payton M Mabry, Beth A Minyard, Reid W Mobley, Aleidra S Rasberry, Kathryn M Specht, Amanda R Stovall, Nathaniel R Suarez, Tessa F Wagner Bismarck Dean’s list grad: Dianna L Boothe, Katie M Carver, Kaylee N Jennings, Sarah L Keithley, John P Stokes Dean’s list undergrad: Jimmie J Harper, Kimberly K Harper, Cecilia G Howell, Jordan B Lancaster Honors list grad: Serene A Garcia, Madison K Hardage Honors list undergrad: Anan C Baccam, Emily J
Cole, Riley F Eads, Isaias M Filipek, Courtney P Helton, Jayden B Howell, Kalee R Newsom, Mason P Thornton Conway Dean’s list grad: Kathryn E Johnson Dean’s list undergrad: Mattison G Fairchild, Addison A Jordan, Brett A Thompson Honors list undergrad: Ella H Greeley, Hayden A White Gurdon Dean’s list grad: Krystal A Bell-Green, Robin A Campbell, Rachel A Pierce, Kimberly L Riley Dean’s list undergrad: Brooklynn E Halliday, Katharine C McClure Honors list grad: Jordan L Swayze Honors list undergrad: James T Dickens, Hannah B Dykes, Heidi B Green Hot Springs Dean’s list grad: William T Beall, Kamryan L Bennett, Matthias A Capaci, Grace E Carter, Leana M Edrington, Matthew W Gordon, Lisa M Hardage-Wade, Michael A Hartmann, Olivia C Hatley, Heather D Hughes, Rolando C Johnson, Candy C Jones, Lonell R Lenox, Maiga L Maynard, Amy C McAnly, Justin M McArthur, Patsy A McWhorter, Ryan T Morrow, Leanne M Nugent, Stephanie R Ocker, John J Pew, Stefanie M Ray, Kalie M Roberts, Julienne R Shepperd, Angela G Smith, Rayna A Southern, Amber E Thomas, Taylor A Wilson Dean’s list undergrad: James A Barron, Brandon E Bennett, Allison R Caldwell, Brian A Carter, Destiny K Clowers,Elam D Fulton, Abram S Graves, Katherine A Hardister, Katelyn L Holmes, Regina D Lusby, Jenny Martinez, Sarah J Moore, Vallory M Newton, Calie Plummer, Abby R Reynolds, Jazmin E Rodriguez, Madalyn R Simmons, Jenna M Sims, Monica M Tedford, Walton P Wood Honors list grad: Jennifer A Bradley, Howard Cheresnick, Destiney N Ellis, Robert A Fisher, Megan E Ford, Paula K Gonzalez, Amanda L Hambrecht, Jeremy L Mackey, Mary J Muldoon, Monica Porter, Nicole D Taylor, Alicia M Ussery Honors list undergrad: Gracen M Blount, Ariel C Bridges, Danielle R Cantrell, Taylor G Christian, Javauna N Clenney-Felan, Clay D Cockerill, Carly E Dassenko, Courtney A Decker, Kristy K Deloach, Landon D Dockery, Kevin B Dubon Uribes, Kimberly M Emerson, Cassandra L Ford, Danielle N Gillham, Anastasia S Hall, Brianna Horton, Jamie R Huisman,Michael O Igbokidi, Adhina Joseph Rose, Leonardo D Lozano, Samuel K McWhorter, Reyes Ortiz, Amanda L Pennington, Christopher B Porterfield, Hailee N Quilici, Taylor D Richardson, Laquela D Roberts, Cytlaly Rodriguez, David O Rodriguez, Sara M Santillan, Kalyn Sharp, Samuel B Simmons, Andrew J Sowerbutts, Kelli N Suta, Krystyna Rosa S Valdivia, Teresa S Valdivia, Annemarie B Van Oversteeg, Austyn D Van Wagner, Willa M Vaughn, Taylor B Werst, William K White Hot Springs National Park Dean’s list undergrad: Rhett H Barrett Hot Springs Village Dean’s list grad: Chae D Brewer, Cameron C Nickels, Maria C Roubik Dean’s list undergrad: Gabriella Guest, Jessica K Johnson, Alina Y Rudakova, Whitney B Speers Honors list grad: Barry K White Honors list undergrad: Claudia A Kemp, Taylor J Mason
2 News
Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021
Gov. Hutchinson on the peaceful tansfer of power Asa Hutchinson AR Governor
The inauguration of President Joe Biden was like no other in our history. I have had the privilege of attending five inaugurations before President Biden’s this week, and the atmosphere this year was understandably more somber than the others. With all that our nation has been through over the past year, including the recent attack on the U.S. Capitol, it was if the nation was holding its breath. But as we always have, the United States peacefully transferred authority from one administration to the next. This year, I attended the inauguration as a member of the opposition party. After more than two months of angry debate about the outcome, Democrats and Republicans put the arguments in the past and convened peacefully in the nation’s capital to witness our new president swear that to the best of his ability, he will “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” The inauguration of President Reagan was special for me, even though I watched it from a distance. He followed Jimmy Carter when the country was still healing from the Vietnam War, and we were struggling with high inflation in a sluggish economy. The two main political parties were as divided as they ever had been. But we handed off the baton without incident.
In his inaugural address, President Reagan noted that Americans take for granted the peaceful quadrennial transfer of power. He said, “The orderly transfer of authority as called for in the Constitution routinely takes place, as it has for almost two centuries, and few of us stop to think how unique we really are. In the eyes of many in the world, this every-fouryear ceremony we accept as normal is nothing less than a miracle.” At this year’s inauguration, my seat was about fifteen yards behind the 46th President of the United States as he delivered his first speech as our Commander in Chief. When you are there, you can’t help but think of all the other presidents and significant Americans who have walked on that very ground over the past two centuries to participate in this wonder of self-government. This year’s inauguration was no less a miracle than the fifty-eight others that preceded it. Amanda Gorman, the 22-year-old youth poet laureate who delivered her poem, The Hill We Climb, captured it beautifully when she said: “And yet the dawn is ours before we knew it. Somehow we do it. Somehow we weathered and witnessed a nation that isn’t broken, but simply unfinished.” One of the most difficult hand offs was in 1801 when selection of the president fell to the House of Representa-
tives, who elected Thomas Jefferson over the incumbent John Adams. In a letter that President Jefferson wrote to President Adams towards the end of their lives, Mr. Jefferson recalled that time through the long lens of history. When it was all said and done, he wrote, they had fought for the same cause. He wrote, “It carries me back to the times when, beset with difficulties and dangers, we were fellow laborers in the same cause, struggling for what is most valuable to man … Laboring always at the same oar, with some wave ever ahead threatening to overwhelm us, and yet passing harmless ... we rode (safely) through the storm.” Once again, the United States has sailed safely through the storm of an election and the transfer of power. It’s a journey I don’t take for granted. As President Reagan said: “That’s our heritage; that is our song. We sing it still. For all our problems, our differences, we are together as of old, as we raise our voices to the God who is the Author of this most tender music. And may He continue to hold us close as we fill the world with our sound—sound in unity, affection, and love—one people under God, dedicated to the dream of freedom that He has placed in the human heart, called upon now to pass that dream on to a waiting and hopeful world.” These words still ring true today.
National Plan for Vacation Day is January 26, and now is the time to start planning for travel when the time is right. “Vacation planners have a wide variety of choices when considering what to do in Arkansas,” said Stacy Hurst, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “From Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art to incredible new hiking and biking trails, we have something for everyone. A trip in The Natural State is the perfect getaway.” For information about planning a trip in Arkan-
sas, visit www.arkansas. com. To learn how tourism and hospitality partners are keeping visitors safe, visit www.arkansas.com/ arkansas-ready-travel. “Arkansas Tourism is celebrating National Plan for Vacation Day to encourage travelers to plan ahead for a future trip and take some much-needed time off,” said Travis Napper, director of Arkansas Tourism. “By committing to vacation planning on January 26, Arkansans can enjoy the many benefits of taking a break while giving themselves something to look forward to.” National Plan for Vacation Day takes place during
the last Tuesday in January as a day to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the entire year at the beginning of the year. Now more than ever, National Plan for Vacation Day is a chance for travelers to do what is safe and productive: plan. According to the U.S. Travel Association, simply planning a vacation can increase happiness, boost optimism and relieve stress. For tips on how to stay healthy while traveling in Arkansas, visit www.arkansas.com/articles/tips-avoidgetting-and-spreading-covid-19-while-traveling.
Bruce Westerman on paying respects to the National Guard Bruce Westerman AR Representative
As the men and women of the Arkansas National Guard return to their homes, they can be proud of the incredible service they provided to our country. After the U.S. Capitol was attacked on January 6, 2021, 500 Arkansans answered the call to protect Washington, D.C., and the inauguration of President Biden and Vice President Harris. I was alarmed to learn
on Thursday that National Guard heroes were banished to freezing parking garages to rest after 12-hour shifts. We can do better honoring those who have given up their time and safety to protect us. Thankfully, the Guard members were quickly moved back inside the Capitol where there is plenty of room. These men and women have conducted themselves with the utmost professionalism and integrity in their time in Washington,
D.C., and we owe them a debt of gratitude. As always, the Arkansas National Guard stands ready to defend our country and serve our communities in some of our greatest times of need. Thank you, as well, to the families of these brave men and women who waited patiently for their loved one’s return. If you see a guardsman in Arkansas this week, make sure to thank them for their service to our country.
Current happenings in Gurdon by Mayor Sherry Kelley Sherry Kelley Gurdon Mayor
Things are hopping in Gurdon. The Smoke Shop and neighboring building have been remodeled, the new Gurdon Pharmacy construction is progressing and the new Game On Tumble and Cheer is nearly complete. New housing opportunities are popping up. I hear that there will be an upcom-
ing auction of a brick home on Beech Street. More new construction and trailer homes are being added to Gurdon. The Georgia Pacific Gurdon Wood Products Mill is busy. We appreciate everyone who works at GP for doing such a good job. A great dog was adopted by a great family last week at the Gurdon Animal Shelter. The Gurdon Light was seen by a woman from
Prescott also last week. She said that her group followed the light for nearly a mile. The Gurdon Light will be a birthday party destination for some children this month. If you would like to visit the trail, simply turn at the Gurdon Sonic and travel 5 miles to the parking area. Look for signage on Highway 67, Highway 182 (Sticky Road) and the parking area.
HSU Swimming and Diving “cruise past OBU” twice in a day
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. — For the second time in 24 hours, and the third time overall this year, the Henderson State Red Wave men cruised past Ouachita Baptist in head-to-head competition, this time defeating the Tigersharks 13768 at the Wells Natatorium on Saturday. The women’s team also swam against its rival in the dual meet and fell 128-75. The Red Wave men took the top two spots in the 200-yard medley relay with the foursome of Marcus Hernandez, Jaren Tippett,
Jase Pinckney and Patryk Dabrowski claiming first place (1:35.96). HSU also won the 200-yard freestyle relay to end the meet as Stephen Jones, Luis Guerrero-Del Toro, Ty Gibbs and Dabrowski touched first in a time of 1:26.95. Henderson got individual victories from Dabrowski in the 200-yard free (1:45.01), Tim Holt in the 50-yard free (21.47), Pinckney in the 100-yard butterfly (51.37), Oscar Patten in the 100yard free (47.58), Stephen Jones in the 100-yard backstroke (51.71) and Tippett in
the 100-yard breaststroke (1:01.58). The short-distance freestyle races proved to be big events for the Red Wave as Gibbs (49.01) and Lamar Taylor (49.48) took second and third, respectively, in the 100-yard free while Guerrero Del-Toro (22.40) and Jason Seiner (22.45) did the same in the 50-yard free. HSU also got a big effort in the 500-yard free, where Constantinos Hadjittooulis (5:12.32) and Seiner (5:12.76) finished second and third.
Oracle: CE
Upcoming Events Upcoming Events The Annual Arkansas Auctioneers Association Annual Conference will take place on February 4-7, 2021 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. >>> <<< The “TUFF ON THA TURF” State Preview tournament is a preliminary event taking place Feb. 20 in Hot Springs, months before the ac-
tual State Championship Tournament and is broken down into divisions based upon age and competition. All divisions in tournament play allow co-ed competition but have no requirements on gender specific participation. Sign up on EventBrite.com. >>> <<< The Iron Mountain Legend trail run is held on the epic trails of Iron Mountain in the DeGray Lake State Park area. With 10K, 25K and 42K options...there is something for all types. Post-race food and drink, plus a unique finisher medal will make it a day to remember. The start/finish line will be the Iron Mountain Lodge & Marina on DeGray Lake. On course aid stations with lots of tasty treats to keep fueled for a day in the Ouachita Mountains. It will take place on March 13.
Celebrate ‘National Plan for Vacation Day’ January 26 AR Tourism
Ongoing >>> <<< Alcoholics Anonymous hosts two meetings a week in Arkadelphia. The meetings are open to anyone interested in AA’s program of recovery. The Arkadelphia Group meets at 7 p.m. every Tues. in the Sturgis Building at North 9 and Caddo Streets. For more information on the Arkadelphia Group Meetings, call 870-403-3001. The U-Turn Group meets at 7 p.m. every Thurs. on the front, upper level of Park Hill Baptist Church, 3163 Hollywood Road. For information on that group’s meetings, call 870-230-2975 or 870-260-9277. >>> <<< H& R Block has a new location at 2749 Pine St in Arkadelphia, AR! Visit their new office today to put their expertise to work on your refund. >>> <<< The Arkadelphia Arts Center directors are looking forward to the day when we can open the doors to the public. Meanwhile, enjoy our rotating exhibits that may be seen through the window and glass door. Contact information is listed on identification cards near each piece. For more information about the Arkadelphia Arts Center and the Caddo River Art Guild find their pages on Facebook or visit CaddoRiverArtGuild.com or CCAHC.org. >>> <<< With Late ‘til 8, local businesses stay open to 8:00 pm so that customers can shop and also win door prizes! this is a monthly event that happens every first Thursday of every month. >>> <<< Pediatrics Plus is excited to announce that our brand new facility is now open. Our new facility is located at 702 Hickory Street. The new facility offers includes a Developmental Preschool and Therapy Services that include: ABA, Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy. In addition, our brand new, state-of-the-art facilities include a House Next Door suite which offers a homey feel for children learning daily living activities like cooking, feeding therapy, making the bed, getting dressed, and more! Other features of the new facility include a new playground, gross motor gym, high stimulation and low stimulation gyms, and a library! Enroll Now to get a spot in our new location! >>> <<< Al-Anon meetings, designed to help family and friends affected by alcohol, are held three days a week in the Arkadelphia area:
- Tues. at 7 p.m., Sturgis Building, corner of 9 and Caddo.
870-403-2019; Thurs. at 6:30 p.m., Park Hill Baptist Church.
870-403-2019; Fri. at noon, Clark County Library, 609 Caddo St.,
side door. 512-
750-2292.
Oracle:CE
Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021
Arkadelphia High School first semester honor roll All A’s 12th Grade – Caroline Bennington, Rachel Bosley, Maegan Cooper, GraceAnn Covington, Carson Craft, Danny Curl, Emma Durand, Kennady Garrett, Lily Kesterson, Shepherd Molinari, Mary Morgan, Madison Morris, Kerigan Overturf, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Dave Rohant, Emma Taylor, Jenna Taylor, Rebecca Thomas, Benjamin Tibbs, Roger Ward and Ashari Whitaker All A’s & B’s 12th Grade – Trey Bledsoe, Mauricio Cervantes, Kerrah Charles, Anna Cobb, Gracie Dunaway, Taylor Dunkelgod, Tyler Edwards, Kyla Elgas, Anyah Evans, John Fairchild, Logan Garner, Nayan Ghodela, Khilah Gulley, Cydney Holmes, Rocky Hughes JR, Olivia Lock, La’mya Luster, Haylee McClain, Mikayla Middleton, Kelin Nelson, Kyler Phifer, Latanya Price, Michael Rich, Andrew Rodgers, Octavio Saldana Katelyn Scott, Braeden Thomas and Ke’asia Tilson 3.000+ 12th Grade – Hannah Calhoon, Victoria Cervantes, Dazalyn Colvin, Isaac Conant, Deneasha Dangerfield, Preston, Demorrow, Jackson Forthman, Hayden Harris, Kyler Hayes, Adrien Hickson, Carson McAnally, D’metria McDuffie, Justin Miller, David Opiri, Corbin Saldana, Katherine Turner, Gabriella Wempe, Katelyn Wilson and Logan Wilson
All A’s 11th Grade – Kennedy Campbell, Audrey Cordero, Taylor Echols, Breanna Edington, Mohammad Faiq, Mallery Gilbert, Tate Goodrum, Sierra Haynes, Colby Helms, Katelyn Hunting, James Jackson V, Tucker Johnson, Joshua LeVar, Peyton Lowery, Lori Maxey, Trinity McKenzie, Nancy Miller, Hannah Moss, Colin Phillips, Matthew Porter, Gracie Simpson, Lillian Trammel and Jhene Utley All A’s and B’s 11th Grade – Colby Adair, Jarrett Bell, Kobey Buckley, James Daniell, Jaishon Davis, Jason Haddox, Ryan Harris, Matyas Johnson, Asia Joseph, Landon Kuhn, Kyle Matocha, Noah McAllister, Joshua Motl, Wynn Pentecost, Kanen Rutledge, Emily Smith, LaCoriyana Thomas, Alex Turley and Jamelle Williams 3.000+ 11th Grade – Spencer Allen, Braylon Bailey, Savannah BeardMiller, Ty Bearden, Dakota Black, Ta’Seliya Blanchett, Brooklyn Buford, Mary Cain, Cahleel Campbell, Ethan Campbell, Colin Conroy, Courlton Crow, Kade Ferguson, Te’shanna Gordon, Jameeka Green, Lovell Hayes, Terra Hembree, Ayden Hewitt, Kaylen Hunter, Latavia Johnson, Collin Jones, Taylor Killackey, Kendrick Knox, Sasha Maxey, Charles, Muncrief, Timothy Rushing and Ollie Ware III
All A’s 10th Grade – Carter Babb, Logan Barnett, Manning Batson, Brooklynn Boyette, Bailey Boyles, Nathanael Campbell, Julia Carter, Calvin Clardy, Anna Derby, Laila Dickerson, Olivia Fenocchi, Makayla Gentry, Kirstin Hall, Julia Jones, Gray Manning, Mtende Moyo, Madelyn Neel, Joy Opiri and Savannah Zeiler All A’s & B’s 10th Grade – Alena Alcala, Judsen Coon, Avery Garner, Amaya Garrard, Kevin Ghodela, Hope Howerton, Cameron Jones, Alana Lynders-Gonzalez, Isabel Martin-Tyler, Andrew McGlone, Timothy Morgan, Hailey O’Neal, Kathleen Ramirez, Landon Ratliff, Britzel Rivera, Madison Runyan, Mariah Rutherford, Liyah Smith, Dakota Sorrells, Emily Talley, Aliyah Ware, Conner Welcher, Gabrielle Williams, Max Wilson and Taylor Woodson 3.000+ 10th Grade – Camryn Allison, Stanley Cordero, Tifton Covington II, Broc Currey, Leslie Dennis, Brandon Dickey, Felicia Dixson, Alexander Gatlin, Jahmaii Hall, Latonnieo Hughes II, Aiden Jones, Lauren Jones, A.J. Lambert, Caitlyn McGough, Skyler Mountz, Celia Pritchard, Connor Robbins, Nigel Robinson, Jakyri Scott, Darrel Simpson JR, Ja’lyus Solomon, De’lion Summerville, Haedyn Taylor, Thomas
Thacker, Madison Trigg, Angelina Turner, Conner Vance and Donovan Whitten
Page 3
AR Tourism Travel Guide
All A’s 9th Grade – Kennedi Arnold, Hunter Blakeney, Tanner Cotton, Savannah Currey, Kourtni Foster, Noah Heard, Bret McDill, Summersky Molinari, Isabel Rodgers, Angela Rosas, Tristan Smith, Catherine Turner, Kevin Williams and Kahlea Wilson All A’s and B’s 9th Grade - Maddox Atkins, Lydia Benjamin, Nakia box, Zoe’ Davis, Lexus Diehl, Kennedy Gentry, Landon Gladstone, Samara Hammack, Phillip Hill, Avery Hrabal, Zachery Johnson, Miles Jones, Daniel Kesterson, Mychia Leatherwood, Jacob Lewis, Lexie Miller, Zachary Miller, Tori Millerd, Kate Perrin, J’layiah Perry, Rowan Phelps, Yharely Ramirez, Parker Schaeffer, Sydney Tatum, Hunter Thompson, Chase Vantilborg, Annabeth Wyatt and Emilee Young 3.000+ 9th Grade – Anthony Askew, Evan Bailey, Ava Beck, Brayden Bledsoe, Shelby Burris, Ethan Burton, Anaiya Ford, Madison Hill, Aiden Killackey, Kayla Knox, Michael McBride, Logan McLane, Jayme Melugin, Chase Rutledge, Adrian Smith and Nicholas Williams
Continuing COVID-19 tracking by Arkansas Dept. of Health
AR Tourism
The 2021 Arkansas Travel Guide is now available at Welcome Centers and tourism locations across the state. You can order a print edition or view the guide online at arkansas.com/ publications. “For those of us who call The Natural State home, the virtues of the state are clear – stunning scenic views, compelling sites and awardwinning culinary opportunities,” said Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Stacy Hurst. “We hope the 2021 Travel Guide will help you explore these places.” Featuring stunning photography and content meant to educate and inspire, the guide is designed to encourage travelers to discover their own adventures in The
Natural State. “Arkansas is full of unique destinations for visitors of all ages. This guide aims to help travelers discover both the highly popular places as well as the lesser-known attractions in The Natural State easily so they can focus on enjoying all our state has to offer,” said Arkansas Tourism Director Travis Napper. The 2021 edition features a magazine-style format that showcases images and content in dynamic layouts. Topics include Arkansas’s natural attractions, museums, arts destinations, mountain biking, live entertainment, historical sites, dining and much more. Written and designed by Arkansas Tourism and CJRW, the travel guide is published annually.
A letter from Clark County NAACP Doug Nelson, President Arkadelphia MLK Commission Henry Wilson, President Clark County NAACP The Arkadelphia MLK Commission and the Clark County NAACP would like to thank Mr. Steve Montgomery, owner of both McDonalds located in Arkadelphia and the Caddo Valley area, as well as being the Mayor of the City of Hope, Arkansas. On January 18, 2021, the two organizations joined together and hosted a successful, MLK Drive by Breakfast. Due to the current pandem-
AR. Department of Health
According to the Arkansas Department of Health Administration in its COVID-19 update, there are a total of 56,292 probable cases in the state as of Jan. 26. In reference to ADH’s graph, there are a total of 228,410 cases with 262,229 recovered. The counties are colored by light to dark in terms of density of cases.
The Dispatch will post an updated version of this graph weekly according to what is available from the Department of Health and state officials. As the cases continue to rise, more and more states are reverting back to more strict quarantine and social distance rules. Masks are nearly universally required to enter most businesses. They are available in most grocery and
convenience stores. Sports are in full swing, with the basketball season currently underway. That’s not to say that there aren’t precautions, however, as games are being cancelled left and right to coincide with regulations. With Joe Biden as the new Presidential, many are expecting the nation to
re-enter shutdown. Schools are encouraging self checking and most offer virtual learning. People are encouraged to continue social distancing and staying at least six feet away from others. Testing is widely available in most cities.
ic, it was decided that we would not do the celebration as we have done for the past 30 years or more. Therefore, we decided not to cook breakfast, not have classes/ workshops/afternoon program, nor would we have the MLK March down Pine Street (Honorary Dr. MLK St.). Hopefully in January 2022 it will be safe for us to resume our normal celebrations of Dr. King’s Birthday. Again, thank you Mr. Montgomery for your contributions in making this a successful event. May God continue to Bless you and your family.
Oracle: Community Edition Editor: Pete Tubbs oraclece@gmail.com 870-230-5221 Calls will be returned.
4 News
Cold shooting dooms Henderson in loss at SAU
Photo courtesy of HSU Sports.
Pictured is guard Damian Dear, junior from Jackson, MISS. The Reddies couldn’t quite swing it last Sat. as they fell short of besting SAU David Salley HSU Sports
derson with 15 points in defeat. Malik Riddle was in double figures for the sixth-straight game with 14, Xavier Davenport had a career-high 13 and Raekwon Rogers added 11 with nine rebounds for HSU. Southern Arkansas, who led 40-35 at the break and by as many as 11 points in the second period, seemed in control down the stretch of the game and held a 6858 advantage with 2:04 remaining. However, despite its offensive struggles, Henderson made a frantic last-gasp effort and put together an 8-0 run behind three transition baskets
from Dear, Davenport and Riddle, to close the gap to 68-66 with 6.4 seconds to go. SAU missed back-toback front ends of one-andone free throw opportunities to open the door for HSU. After fouling once again to put the Muleriders on the line, the Reddies watched SAU miss its third-straight front end free throw. Jeremiah Toney tracked down a long rebound for Henderson and the ball ended up in Dear’s hands as the final seconds ticked down, but he could not get a clean look and his heave from 40 feet was off the mark to end
the valiant rally in bitter fashion. The Reddies held SAU to just 36.8% shooting for the game but were out-rebounded 44-38 and 18-11 on the offensive glass. All three makes for HSU from behind the 3-point line came in the first six minutes of the game. Henderson missed 19-straight 3-pointers to end the game after starting 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. HSU has a quick turnaround and will host rival Ouachita Baptist at 7 p.m. on Monday night in the Duke Wells Center.
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. — Henderson State hit Ouachita Baptist with an offensive avalanche in the first half on Monday night and the Tigers never recovered, as the Reddies cruised to a blow-out victory in the first Battle of the Ravine on the hardwood, 96-67. Malik Riddle was the story of the game and finished with a career-high 32 points on 11-of-17 shooting. His 32 points were the most for a Henderson player in the last two seasons. Rogers was the only other player in double figures for HSU with 13 points and 10 rebounds, but all 14 players who played
in the game scored, including Jaelin Ferrell and Kavon Key, who each scored their first points as Reddies. It was the Riddle show all night for HSU, but particularly in the first half. The junior transfer from Holly Springs, Mississippi hit his first five 3-point attempts and finished the period with 17 points — just one behind Ouachita Baptist’s entire team. Collectively, Henderson shot a scorching 9-of-13 from 3-point range in the first 20 minutes, and held OBU to just 24% shooting from the floor, to take a commanding 46-18 lead at
the break. The contest was once tied at 7-7, but the Reddies finished the half on a massive 39-11 run to blow the game open. Ouachita Baptist did its best to make things interesting and began the second half with a 16-6 run to trim the deficit down to 52-34 at the 14:28 mark. The Reddies responded in kind to the OBU run with a counterpunch of their own. Seven quick points from Riddle, two buckets from Raekwon Rogers and a 3-pointer from Graham Chenault spearheaded a 19-7 answer on the part of HSU, which extended its lead back out to
71-41 with 10 minutes left. The result was a formality from that point on, as the Tigers never again got within 20 points and Henderson cruised to victory. Henderson dominated OBU 46-28 on the glass in the win and out-scored the Tigers 31-17 in points off turnovers. The Reddies’ 29-point margin of victory extended their winning streak against Ouachita Baptist to five games. HSU takes to the road on Thursday to face UAM at 6 p.m. in Monticello, Arkansas.
ARKADELPHIA, Ark.THE RUNDOWN Ouachita Baptist volleyball makes its long-awaited return to the court Tuesday as it hosts Arkansas Tech at 6:00 p.m in the first match of the 2020-21 season. No fans will be permitted at Sturgis Physical Education Center, but the match will be streamed on the Ouachita Digital Sports Network’s YouTube page. The Great American Conference announced in December its teams would each play a 10-match schedule against teams within their division. Ouachita is predicted to finish fourth in the GAC East division
preseason poll. The Tigers are coming off a 2019 season in which they went 14-14 overall with a 9-7 conference record. Ouachita returns five of seven starters from last season, including 2019 Second Team All-GAC libero Lexie Castillow. Also returning are Temi Fayiga, who led the Tigers with 644 assists and Emily Low, who was second on the team in kills and hitting percentage in 2019. Head coach Allison Frizzell-Kizer has also added nine newcomers to her roster with 10 total players returning. SCOUTING ARKANSAS TECH The Golden Suns are
bringing back 10 players from the 2019 squad, including All-GAC honorable mention selections Mackenzie Eford and Brianna Merkel ATU is projected to finish
third in the GAC East The Golden Suns finished 2019 16-14 overall and 8-8 in the GAC
Henderson State shot just 34.4% in the second half on Saturday afternoon and its furious late rally came up short in a 68-66 road loss to Southern Arkansas. After shooting 52.2% in the first half and making eight of its first nine shots, the Reddies went cold in the second and were just 11-of-32 from the field in the final 20 minutes. HSU also had little luck from beyond the arc in the loss and finished just 3-for-22 from the 3-point line. Damian Dear led Hen-
Oracle: CE
Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021
Reddies Hammer OBU 96-67
Ouachita Baptist volleyball hosts Arkansas Tech to kick off season
Wrestling falls to two ranked opponents ARKADELPHIA, Ark.The Ouachita Baptist wrestling team lost a pair of dual matches to No. 4 Lindenwood and No. 24 Maryville on Sunday in Springfield, Missouri. The Tigers fell to 2-7 on the year and 0-4 in Great Lakes Valley Conference action. Against Lindenwood, sophomore Johnny Green claimed the lone victory for Ouachita, defeating Tage McNutt at 285 by a 3-1 decision. Freshman Noah Yeamans won by 5-4 decision over Maryville’s Anthony Pisciotta at 125 to start the second dual of the afternoon. Freshman Jackson Carter pinned the Saints’ Caleb Knobel to give the Tigers six points. Full Results Ouachita vs. No. 4 Lindenwood 125 – Cevion Severado (LU) def Brandon Anderson (OBU) - Dec 11-6 133 – No. 6 Tanner Hitchcock (LU) def Evan Kennedy (OBU) - Dec 8-6 141 – Kallen Napier (LU) def Alex Thyes (OBU) - MD 12-4 149 – No. 1 Gavin Londoff (LU) def Jaylon Otero (OBU) - Dec 8-1 157 – No. 7 Ronnie Gentile (LU) def Chase Howerton (OBU) - Dec 10-5 165 – Nate Trepanier (LU) def Jackson Carter (OBU) - Dec 10-5 174 – No. 1 Abner Rome-
ro (LU) def William Martin (OBU) - TF 16-1 184 – Kyle Dickhaus (LU) def Brady Marple (OBU) Fall 1:17 197 – Keaton Fogler (LU) def Rickey Rogers, Jr. (OBU) - Fall :36 285 – Johnny Geen (OBU) def Tage McNutt (LU) - Dec 3-1 Ouachita vs. No. 24 Maryville 125 – Noah Yeamans (OBU) def Anthony Pisciotta (Maryville) - Dec 5-4 133 – No. 7 Tyler Kreith (Maryville) def Evan Kennedy (OBU) - TF 15-0 4:55 141 – Taylor Jokerst (Maryville) def Alex Thyes (OBU) - Fall 0:54 149 – No. 10 Tyler Stegall (Maryville) def Jaylon Otero (OBU) - Dec 4-1 157 – Michael Peters (Maryville) def Chase Howerton (OBU) - Fall 1:58 165 – Jackson Carter (OBU) def Caleb Knobel (Maryville) - Fall 4:09 174 – Bret Heil (Maryville) def William Martin (OBU) Fall 1:35 184 – Bailey Kelly (Maryville) def Brady Marple (OBU) - Fall 1:28 197 – Chase Stegall (Maryville) def Rickey Rogers, Jr. (OBU) - 1:27 285 – Logan Radik (Maryville) def Johnny Green (OBU) - Dec 3-2
Tigers defeat Harding in opener ARKADELPHIA, Ark.THE RUNDOWN The long-awaited home opener for the Ouachita Baptist men’s basketball team ended victoriously, as the Tigers held on for a 7874 win over Harding at Bill Vining Arena on Saturday. DJ Kane’s layup with 60 seconds left in the game put the Tigers ahead for good, and Kendarious Smith scored five points in the final 21 seconds to keep the Bisons at bay. Ouachita took control early, jumping out to a 14-5 lead that dwindled to a 2929 tie at halftime. Dennis Nutt’s crew regained a slim lead in the opening minutes of the second half, but after the under-16:00 media timeout, Harding regained the lead and kept it until after the 3:00 minute mark in the second half. To pick up the victory, Ouachita had to outlast a hot-shooting Bison squad that made 14 of its 31 threepoint attempts. The Tigers were able to capitalize on Harding’s mistakes, scoring
23 points off of 21 turnovers. Deaveon Bankston led Ouachita with 17 points on six-of-eight shooting from the floor. Matt Stanley added 12 points. Smith’s seven rebounds were a game-high. THREE THINGS TO KNOW - The Tigers entered the game just one day of practice removed from a 14-day layoff due to COVID-19 contact tracing. Saturday’s game was the Tigers’ first action since January 9 at Southern Arkansas. - Ouachita has now won nine of its last 10 home openers - Smith increased his career scoring total to 835, 165 points shy of joining Ouachita’s 1,000-point club. BY THE NUMBERS 10 - Saturday’s tight contest saw 10 lead changes and seven ties 14 - Harding’s 14 made three-pointers were a season-high 57.8 - The Tigers held the lead for 57.8 percent of the game