The Voice of Van Buren County - January 26, 2021

Of the people, By the people, For the people

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TUESDAY, January 26, 2021 / Vol. 7 Issue 4 / 75 cents

It Takes a Village

by Warren Johnson

Anita Tucker and Jeff Pistole at the "Worlds Largest Potluck" in 2014.

Terry O'Connor received a visit from Santa last month

On the afternoon of November 18, 2021, I received a voicemail from Clinton Mayor Richard McCormac. Richard typically calls to remind me of a City Council meeting or to tell me about a special session. When I listened to his message, I could discern something was wrong by the sound of his voice.

I returned the call, and Richard told me Anita Tucker had fallen asleep the night before and did not wake up.

I immediately went to the Voice's downtown office and offered my condolences to Terry. I said I would help her in any way I could. Terry responded, "We have a paper to publish next week."

I replied, I couldn't. I don't know-how. Terry repeated her previous statement, and I told her, "Okay, We have a paper to publish. We will take it one day at a time," I responded.

In October 2015, Anita and Terry had stepped out in faith to create a local paper with the primary focus being on the people of Van Buren County, including some stories from our surrounding counties.

While the ladies have secured their place in Van Buren County history, Terry has been quick to tell me they could have never accomplished what they have without our community's strong support.

She has a typed page on her desk, filled with contact information. The title reads "The Voice's People."

I had not spent more than a couple of hours at the office with Terry for the past two months. I have worked a full schedule during the day while working on writing and editing the Voice of Van Buren County during my nights and weekends at home.

The eighteen-hour workdays have been

exhausting but also very rewarding. I have learned what many folks have to pay for others to teach them, and learning new things is always a good thing.

Last week, I worked with Terry in the office for the first time. I realized that her health problems were significantly worse than they appeared and that these health issues have prevented her from giving The Voice the detailed attention she has given it in the past. I thought she could benefit from an office assistant, and I worked with Terry for the next four days to learn as much as possible to help her with the business side. We crammed a lot into a short amount of time, and I took detailed notes.

On Friday morning, Terry said she needed to go to the hospital. She is receiving professional care and is in good spirits.

A Yoruba proverb reads, "It takes a village to raise a child."

I have learned many lessons working on this publication for the past two months. Perhaps the most important is it takes a village for the Voice to make it into mailboxes all over the country each week.

The Voice's People have agreed to try to help me keep all of the balls in the air while Terry is convalescing. We have a great team in place, and we believe we have all of the bases covered. The downtown office will not be open at all times in Terry's absence. We will forward the business phone to my cell. If anyone needs assistance at the office, one of us will try to meet you. I will be in and out of the office while I am working both the business and editorial sides of the paper.

All of the "Voice's People" wish Terry a speedy recovery.

The Only Constant in Life is Change

by Warren Johnson

In September 2020, the company I work for brought all of the hourly supervisors together and announced a corporate restructuring. The new structure would allow the company to be more competitive in today's ever-changing marketplace.

The corporation was redefining the parameters of its business model across its entire U.S. operation.

The changes would mean fewer supervisors with larger responsibility areas, but all team leads would receive pay raises. The raises would be lucrative for less tenured employees. The new schedules would be revolving, and the supervisors would perform essential business needs by working during all three shifts. The new business model went into effect in October 2020.

After speaking with my manager and communicating with the CEO and COO of U.S. operations, I submitted my notice. It stated my last day with the company would be January 29, 2021. The company and my manager has been very good to me. He gave me the option to continue working on my current schedule until that date. If another job within the facili-

ty became available, I could opt-in, and the company would protect my hourly wage until October 2021.

I carefully considered my options, and I decided to take the severance package.

After three decades, I will no longer be working at the shop around the corner.

I confided with the people in my circle of trust. I told them that perhaps I was stepping out in faith for the first time in my life. I had no idea what would be next for me, but one thing was sure, I wanted to take six months to a year off and decompress.

I told my friends, "Over the past several years, I have become involved in county activities. I enjoy documenting and sharing various images, stories, and videos about our people on my social media platforms."

Perhaps, I could redeem some of the time the year 2020 had taken from us, I believed.

By Autumn, the virus and the division it was creating in our community was wearing on my nerves. The year 2020 took quite a toll on me. I remember telling my friend Ben who lived next door, "this year can not end fast enough! It can not possibly get any worse." Ben replied, It can, and it will. I did not realize how proSee Change on page 3

Foreman Randy Ward accepting an award on behalf of his crew from County Judge Dale James at the January QC meeting. The Department has gone three years accident free saving the county around $32,000 per year in Workers' Comp Premiums from 2016 - 2020.

County Roads and Equipment Report for January 2021

by Judge Dale James

The freeze-thaw cycle is undoubtedly taking a toll on our county roads.

We have had grader crews continually working on cutting out the potholes and smoothing up our roads as best as we can. We are spot blading currently not to mess up the good places as we wait for the weather to break.

Complete beginning to end grading will resume when the weather permits.

The Van Buren County Road Department celebrates three years of being accident-free as of January 17, 2021. Their jobs are dangerous, and this is no small accomplishment.

I proposed a resolution to the Quorum Court for a package, which was included in the budget to incentivize the crew to work toward and stay accident-free. The package was approved which rewards full time employees with a one time bonus of

$500. Part time receiving $250. The Sheriff is looking at this as a possible model for his department. A safer work environment not only saves the county money but keeps our people more productive and can increase their quality of life.

Most of the road crew chose to use their accumulated time to take off during the holidays. Immediately following the two weeks of having a small work crew, we had several quarantined with Covid-19.

We are slowly beginning to recover and are almost back to a full working staff.

Work continues on the large grant-funded projects, Archey and Peyton Mountain Road. We hope to have a ribbon-cutting on the Peyton Mountain Project within the next couple of weeks, weather permitting.

We are finalizing plans for the 2021 calendar. I do not want to get as overzealous as I did in 2020. We had to carry over some projects into this year.

Coronavirus Cases Drop in Arkansas By the numbers January 25, 2020 State of Arkansas

Van Buren County

• Total Covid Cases: 284,066 • Recovered Cases: 260,034 • Total Deaths: 4,606

• Total Cumulative Cases: 1,039 • Total Active Cases: 99 • Total Deaths: 12

“We again saw a decrease in active cases across the State today. This is the fourth consecutive day of a decline, and we have over 4,700 fewer active cases than this time last week. It’s up to each of us to ensure we stay on this trend and defeat this virus,”

Arkansas, Governor Hutchinson says.

The State has passed the 50% distribution threshold of vaccines received.

The number of active cases has continued to fall over the past week in Van Buren and our surrounding counties.

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 2

THAT

BANNER MOUNTAIN GIRL

by Freeda Baker Nichols

The Old Jail at Shirley

by Freeda Baker Nichols

When tourists come to Shirley, a town nestled on the banks of the Little Red River, one place they may visit is the small, concrete building that was once a jail. It has been there for many, many years.

I’m not sure there is any written record of its origin. The structure is very small but it served its purpose back when it was common to see drunks in a brawl along the streets of this quaint little town. And that has been a long time ago.

After World War II when men returned home to the Shirley area, some of them turned to drinking and fighting.

Perhaps it was their way of recovering from the tragedy of war. Their way to forget the horrors they had lived through, while winning that war.

According to my husband, Gene Nichols, who grew up at Shirley, there are lots of interesting stories of growing up there. He said, “Watching the fights was our entertainment.”

Before his folks bought a house, they rented houses in or around Shirley. Once they lived in a house across the street from the jail. Gene recalls hearing men in jail overnight, calling out, “Help!

Get me out of here!”

Gene also remembers a City Marshall, named William Williams.

He carried a weapon called a blackjack.

It was leather bound.

Gene has seen Mr. Williams use the blackjack on men who were resisting being put in jail.

The men were jailed because of being drunk, fighting, and disturbing the peace. They were kept overnight to sober up. There was no bathroom facility.

The historical Shirley jail house remains

January 26, 2021

Remembering Uncle Bob Pate

by Eugene Smith Courthouse going in the

This story is about Robert Franklin Pate, who everyone, or at least most of them, knew as "Uncle Bob" Pate, a fixture in downtown Clinton. He was born in Clinton on November 9, 1879, and lived an active life until he died at 98 on February 27, 1978.

Bob owned Pate's Grocery Store on the northeast corner of the Court Square in Clinton, at the Canaday Abstract Company's current location. This grocery store is not to be confused with a later Pate's Grocery on the same site, which was owned by a relative, John Pate.

Unfortunately, the store was not insured when it was destroyed in the fire of 1925, which devastated many of the Court Square businesses.

Although the store's loss broke Uncle Bob financially and took away his regular income, he worked different jobs around town over the next decade. He repaid every dime he owed to various wholesalers and suppliers for the lost store contents with interest. He said he had no choice as it was the right thing to do.

I remember uncle Bob as the man who worked for the county for years, keeping the coal-fired furnace in the

cold weather seasons.

He would go to the Courthouse at about 4:30 – 5:00 am and fire up the furnace so the Courthouse would be warm when the County Officials and employees came to work.

Another thing Uncle Bob is well remembered for was his love of fishing. I often went fishing with him down on the Town Branch in my younger days, back when it was more of a slow-moving "pond" that flowed in the dark shadows under a thick canopy of trees. We would also go on an overnight camping and fishing trip up Archey Creek, where we fished in places like the "Old Otter Slide" and the "Morgue Hole." The former had no otters any more, but Uncle Bob remembered in the old days when it had them, and those playful critters loved to slide down the sandy bank into the water.

Anyone who ever fished with Bob knew well that he eschewed modern-day gadgets such as fishing reels... no way...he was strictly a cane pole angler.

He must have been part fish because he knew them better than they knew themselves, and he always knew exactly where a fish would be lurking and just how to

Bob Pate in the early Bob in his sunset years days convince it to "take the bait."

Us local boys loved to go fishing with Uncle Bob, including a distant nephew, Glenn Griggs, also one of Bob's fishing buddies.

In the mid to later part of the 1960s, many older folks around town had an old pair of ice skates hanging up in their shed or barn.

When asked about the skates, they would say that in the early 1900s, the winters were much colder, and Archey Creek would freeze over. Many townsfolk would gather at Archey, near the current highway bridge and beside Chicora Springs Park, to ice skate, and Bob Pate was well known as the most skilled and graceful skater who ever skated in this area.

He could do all of the spins and leaps but also could thrill the ladies who could pair up with him in a skating waltz.

One would be re-

and tells of a time gone by. Visitors like to take pictures of it. It’s a reminder to obey the law.

There were also many good things that made growing up at Shirley a wonderful experience. Gene talks of how much he missed the train, when it quit running through the town. The train once came through, crossing over the bridge that is still there across the Little Red. The river has good swimming holes.

And on its banks, the sandy soil is great for growing watermelons.

Sudoku Solution Fishing has been and still is a great hobby.

Gene says, “The people were so good.

They helped each other.

They got along with one another. When someone was sick, neighbors took turns sitting up at night to give the family a break.”

As well as the jail house, there were also church houses. The Community Church building in downtown Shirley is one of its attractions, still serving the community. Gene Vesta Waddell with Bess and Myrtle Kemp on recalls that Ben Holley, the frozen river in 1905 Photo courtesy of Van Buren County, the blacksmith, rang the Arkansas: Thanks for the Memories. church bell on Sundays Crossword Solution to remind people it was time for church.

Gene has many great memories of his hometown and its people.

there is for me.

I don't know, not

by Steve Evans ready to go.

Guess I'll stay here Laying on the banks awhile. of the river; I was watching the sunshine.

Feeling the warmth upon my face; Gotta cross to the other side.

I don't know, not ready to go.

Guess I'll stay here for a while I think of today, I dream of tomorrow.

What will I do, Who will I be, When will I fade away?

Who will remember the man I was?

Why is that so important to me?

I thought my name and where I'm from was who I am, but I know I'm made from everyone.

I think I'll miss them all when it's time to go.

Where to walk? I still don't know.

The breeze is cool; the sun is warm.

Maybe this is all

miss if they didn't mention that Bob Pate was a fantastic fiddler. He was well known for his fiddle skills and was always prodded to play a few tunes at any family gathering. Back during the early 1900's Bob, his sister, Clarkie Pate, and several others formed the Clinton String Band, which provided a lot of entertainment for folks in the area.

Bob Pate never drove an automobile; instead walked everywhere around town and up and down Archie Creek and the Little Red River to go fishing. When he did have to ride in a car, he would be quite nervous if the driver exceeded 40 mph. He would often say, "Slow down! You're goin' too fast!"

This concludes the first part of this story on Uncle Bob Pate.

Next week I will present some of Bob's ancestral background in Van Buren County.

Where To Go?

The VOICE of Van Buren County

328 Main St. / P.O. Box 1396 / Clinton, AR / 72031 tel: (501) 745-8040 / fax: (501) 745-8077 Advertising / Office Manager

Terry O’Connor - voiceads@artelco.com Subscription Rates: $35 per year in Van Buren County $45 per year outside of county Subscriptions or Circulation Customer Service voiceads@artelco.com or (501) 745-8040 To Submit News: voiceeditor@artelco.com Letters to the Editor: voiceeditor@artelco.com Display and Classified Advertising: voiceads@artelco.com or (501) 745-8040 Deadline to submit news items, letters and all advertising: News Deadline: 4:00 p.m. Thursday Ad Deadline: 4:00 p.m. Friday The VOICE of Van Buren County is published weekly on Tuesday by VBC Communications, LLC 328 Main Street, Clinton AR 72031 USPS Permit # 16970 effective 10-13-2015 Periodicals Postage paid at Clinton AR. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to The VOICE of Van Buren County P. O. Box 1396, Clinton, AR 72031

The Voice of Van Buren County

January 26, 2021

Page 3

of the nation is having. It is almost February, and it will not be long until the gardening time is upon us.

Stay safe, warm, and healthy, and if you have news, call 5923935, and we will get it done.

Patsy Ward Formosa

came over and brought cake and ice cream, and Sindee and David joined them to celebrate her big day. Marva and RG, Sindee and David, John, Scott and his grandsons, Remington and Riggin, Ashley and her friend, Sasha, and her daughter, Kylah, Dustin and his children, Hallie and Levi, all joined them at the Catfish barn in Quitman on Friday for a family dinner.

She got calls and cards from several people and lots of good wishes on Facebook.

She is closing out the seventy's this year, so she needed to celebrate BIG! Next year will be the big 80!

That's about all I can come up with this week.

Get well wishes to those who are sick and prayers that they will soon be on the mend.

God bless, and have a good week.

Ann Mann and I went to Leslie with Donna and Richard Sherrod on Friday to help him celebrate his birthday. We had dinner at The Grill.

We all wanted a catfish dinner, but we were a little early for it. They were nice enough to start the fryers early so we could have the catfish. It was a pretty good meal, especially the mushrooms!

After we got home, we went back up to play cards. Donna, Ann, and I played Skip-Bo. I'm not sure I like playing with her, she always comes out the winner!

It seems to me Sammie Story is the same way! We had a few games with her this week also.

Regardless of who wins, we sure do have fun trying to beat them!

Donna and Richard went to Heber Springs on Saturday to meet their kids and have a Thelma Murray birthday dinner with Shirley them.

February is a short Marva Ward had a birthday on Tues- month, and we can hope day. John and Teresa we will get a lower heat-

ing bill. We can expect to get a surprise valentine in the middle of February or candy to make life sweeter.

Troy & Marcella Treece, my cousins in Rolla, Missouri, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary today; Troy was the oldest grandchild of Perry and Effie [Cates] Treece and the oldest child of Lloyd and Marie [Huggins] Treece. Troy went to school in Shirley, several years before the family moved to Missouri. Troy and Marcella have always been faithful to come to Shady Grove to decorate every year. His family has lived in several houses on this mountain; he also has a younger sister and twin sisters born on this mountain.

James & Joyce Burns Scotland

It is excellent news to hear the Scotland Community Center is open again, with lunch served four days a week. Lunch begins at 11:45 each day, eat in or take out.

Activities include pool games, bingo, and puzzles. They need our support, so let's all help all that we can.

The First Saturday Breakfast is still off for a while yet. We are looking forward to changing this message, and for all things can get back to normal. It will be nice for old friends to get together again.

We still have several people in our community recovering or quarantined from Covid Virus and other health problems. Let's remember them in our prayers.

I am so grateful that we do not have the extreme weather that most

Lana Nelson-Goins and her husband Michael

Lana Nelson-Goins wedding Jeffry Burgess Crabtree

The Full Wolf Moon is official Thursday at 2:18 p.m.

The Crabtree Senior Night Potluck, at the Foursquare Church, originally scheduled for Friday, is cancelled. Organizers hope to restart as vaccinations become widespread.

Next Wednesday is “Carrot Cake Day.” Some say it was invented in the Middle Ages when sugar was high priced and rare. Carrots are said to fight free radical damage and promote good vision.

Reddish Mars continues to dim as its distance from us increases. Right after dusk, it is high in the southern sky, and then descends as the night advances.

The memory of longtime resident and colorful personality J.D. Puddy Jr., has been honored since 1988 with a perpetual scholarship in his name. Thanks to the efforts of James Gilliam and EHC, some deserving graduating senior will receive financial assistance for higher education. For more information, or an application, contact an EHC member.

I am convinced I saw some low growing bushes last week with the beginnings of bud swell.

And I’ve noticed winter garden weeds starting to seed. This all gets me to thinking about my spring garden and what I can do to get a jump on the season. For more on the subject check out the garden column found elsewhere in this edition.

If you have info about the greater Crabtree and west Hwy. 16 community, call or text Jeffry Burgess, 745-1249.

On January 10, 2021, businesswoman Lana Nelson of the Alread community family got a little bigger when

she joined in holy matrimony to Mr. Michael Goins of Mountain View.

Congratulations to the happy couple.

what he thought was Change food poisoning. Docfrom page 1 tors discovered he had stomach cancer, and phetic his statement twenty-five days later, would be. he passed away. Ben Ben Hayes and Ani- was 48. ta Tucker were two of The year 2020 was my best friends, and a thief. It took friends, both were part of my family, time, and money circle of trust. away from many peoOn November 17, ple across our land. It 2020, Anita went to gave us a virus and left sleep and never woke many feeling helpless, up. We buried her on afraid and isolated. Let November 23. Two us all hope and pray for days later, Ben began the darkness to lift and to have symptoms of for better times ahead.

The Time When My Brother's Goat Went To Church

by Joe W. Jones

Some may not remember, and some just might When all of our churches used coal oil light.

Nor remember the churches down the way The ones torn down, it seems, just the other day.

There was no air conditioning, no central heat In the wintertime, you froze your feet.

In summer, windows came up, and doors opened wide Letting almost everything come inside.

Olen had a goat that thought it was cool And would follow Olen to Church and school.

The goat came to Church once in a while He would just come on in and walk down the aisle.

One Sunday morning, as the Church closed with prayer

The room was hot, and we didn't have much air.

In ran the goat with hoofs very loud Then you could have heard a pin drop in that crowd.

The preacher got excited with the visitors intent He thought someone had come up to repent.

He turned around and to his surprise The goat was looking him straight in the eyes.

The women grew edgy and wanted to run But they just grabbed a pew till the praying was done.

If ever a goat got religion, this was as close as I'd seen He ran up the aisle and caused the women to scream.

He ran out the door, never to come back again Either our Church didn't suit him, or Olen put him in a pen.

Page 4

Obituaries

Judge Andrew E. McNeil

Retired Judge Andre E. McNeil, age 89, of Conway, Arkansas, departed this life on December 16, 2020.

He was born June 24, 1931, to the late Aubrey W. and Luzelle McNeil in Merigold, Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents and a younger brother, Aubrey E. McNeil.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Andi Elizabeth McNeil; his children, Mike McNeil (Jan), Scott Boone (Lisa), Michael Boone (Monica), and Kimberly Clymer (Rockey); grandchildren, Emily, Alec, Anna, Jamey, and Kylee.

He graduated from high school in Cleveland, Mississippi, in 1949 and entered Delta State the same year. In 1950 he interrupted his college education to join the United States Marine Corps and served with the First Marine Division in Korea from 1951-1953. After his tour of duty in Korea, he was assigned to Camp Lejeune, NC, where he continued to serve with the Fleet Marine Force as a Second Marine Division member until his enlistment expired. He was a Staff Sergeant at the time of his discharge.

Eager to complete his college education, he took a maximum caseload each term and at one time was simultaneously enrolled in both Delta State and the University of Mississippi.

He managed to earn a four-year undergraduate degree and a Master's degree from a four-year G.l. Bill program. Even though he worked parttime and carried a heavy

caseload, he continued to earn a place on the college's honor roll.

He graduated from Delta State University in 1957 with a BS in Business Administration and from the University of Mississippi in 1958 with a Master's Degree in Economics. He taught Accounting and Business subjects at Pearl River Junior College during the school year 1957-1958. In 1958 he accepted a position teaching Business subjects at the University of Central Arkansas and began working toward a Ph.D. in Business Administration requirements.

In 1965 he elected to change careers and entered the University of Arkansas Law School at Fayetteville. He graduated in early 1968 and was admitted to the bar the same year. From 1968 through 1984, he engaged in the general practice of law in Conway, Arkansas.

In 1985 he was elected to serve as Chancery Judge of the 20th Arkansas Judicial District and held that position until retirement in 1996. During his time on the bench, he was noted for his concerns for the parties involved in cases before him and the attorneys representing those parties. He would accept nothing less than absolute honesty from the litigants and excellence from the attorneys representing them. He also lobbied for legislation creating the Arkansas Juvenile Justice System. During his time on the bench, he always found time for his interests outside of the courtroom.

He found time not only to be a devoted husband, father, and grandfather but time to spend with the children and families of Conway.

He volunteered his time as a Cub Scout leader and as a Little League coach. He believed that our youth was our most valuable asset and devoted time and effort

The staff of The Voice of Van Buren County extends sincere condolences to all who have lost loved ones.

If you wish to express your appreciation to friends, neighbors, family, church and community members with a Thank You on the obit page, call (501) 745-8040 or email voiceads@artelco.com

The Voice of Van Buren County Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at Indian Rock Village in Fairfield Bay. On August 20, 1926, Angie was born in Wood Lake, Minnesota, to August J. and Emma (Fitzner) Bode.

He was the youngest of their 12 children and remained on the family farm in Posen Township from birth until the early 1960s.

He then moved from farmer to a business owner when he and his wife, Ordena, owned and operated a hardware store in Wood Lake, Minnesota. They later moved the business to Montevideo, Minnesota, where they lived with their five children.

He and Ordena moved to Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, in 1981, presumably to escape the Minnesota winters. Augie worked at the Bay IGA grocery store for several years and was familiar with many regular customers. Once he "retired" from IGA, he kept busy with odd jobs helping others, yard work, and church.

He was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church in Fairfield Bay for many years. Augie, always a farmer at heart, also maintained his garden until his declining health wouldn't allow it any longer.

Angie was preceded in death by his wife, Ordena (Prechel) Bode, in 2002. He was also preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, five sisters, and two sons-inlaw. He is survived by his son, Steve (Darlene) Bode of Bay City, Wisconsin; four daughters, Karen (Gene) Eddleman of Greers Ferry, Arkansas; Mary (Curt) Johnson of Ankeny, Iowa; Patty (Troy Huntley) Lenning of Montevideo, Minnesota; and Jennifer Bode of Kalispell, Montana; eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchilAugust Clifford Bode dren; and many relaAugust "Augie" tives and friends.

Clifford Bode, 94, of A special thank to projects designed to help develop young men and women into responsible, caring adults.

He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, Conway Chamber of Commerce, Faulkner County Saddle Club served as President of the Conway Noon's Lion Club, former Pilot and Captain for the Arkansas Civil Air Patrol, 32nd degree Mason and a Shriner, certified arms instructor, a Life Member of the NRA, and Friends of the NRA. Even as busy as his career was, he always found time to enjoy his love and appreciation for the great outdoors by canoeing, camping, hunting, fishing, and traveling.

In early retirement, he continued to serve the Arkansas Judiciary by filling in on cases throughout the state as needed. He was instrumental in convincing the Chief Justice to utilize retired judges' resources by banding them together into a workable organization.

In his later years of retirement, he enjoyed time telling stories about his life and outdoor adventures. Many from Van Buren County mourn his passing. He enjoyed going to gun shows and attending his gun club meetings. He very much enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, and of course, his dogs.

Per his wishes, due to COVID-19, there will be no services held at this time. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

January 26, 2021 you to Indian Rock Village staff for the loving care given to our Dad in his final days.

The public may make memorial contributions to Faith Lutheran Church, Indian Rock Village auxiliary, Arkansas Hospice, or your chosen charity.

Bobby Dale Weaver

Bobby Dale Weaver, 64, of Shirley, Arkansas, died unexpectedly at UAMS in Little Rock on Tuesday, January 19, 2021. He was born in Elgin, Illinois, on September 29, 1956, to Fay Weaver and the late Joe Weaver. He was married to Alice Burkert Weaver for forty-three years.

He lived most of his life at Shirley.

Bobby Dale had a short stint in the Army and construction jobs in several states. He was a jack-of-all-trades and had made many unique things over the years. Before moving back to Shirley and working as the county mechanic, he had a truck repair business in Tennessee. His biggest passion was the family farm acquired after retirement and spending time with family and friends. He helped so many people, and he will be a significant loss for us all.

Left to cherish Bobby's memory are his wife, Alice, two sons; Dameon Weaver (Angie), Nathan Weaver (Candace), four grandsons; Hunter Weaver, Colton Brown, Brayden Weaver, Wyatt Weaver, all of Shirley, mother, Fay Weaver of Clinton, sister, Brenda Hotz of Missouri, brother Larry Weaver (Sonia) of Texas, sister-in-law, Nancy Ward, ex-brother-inlaw, Ricky Ward both of Tennessee, numer-

ous nieces, nephews, step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, his many friends he grew up with, other family members, community members, and business associates.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jim and Ida Weaver and Claude and Martha Salmon, his father, Joe Weaver, brothers-in-law; Tom Terry, John Hotz, daughter, Misty Brown, and nephew Joe Terry.

A memorial service will be held later.

We want to extend our most profound appreciation to the first responders, medical team, survival flight, and police officers who assisted in our recent tragedy. We are thankful for the teamwork and professionalism showed.

We pray the others involved will be given peace as they face each day. Although we have many unanswered questions, we must rely on our faith and trust that God will guide us through this most difficult time and bring us all back to brighter and better days.

We truly appreciate the staff at Ozark Health who provide care for our loved one there and comfort her in our unfortunate event. All of you are genuinely angels with the more demanding job during this pandemic. You all go over and beyond when something unforeseen occurs. For that, we are ever grateful.

Last, we wish to convey thankfulness to our friends, neighbors, family, and others who have provided comfort, food, flowers, and many prayers in our time of need. Special recognition to Morris and Terri at Reaves Food Store for their thoughtfulness in memorializing our loved ones.

God bless each one of you; all of you have helped to lessen our loss.

See Obituaries on page 5

The Voice of Van Buren County

January 26, 2021 Obituaries from page 4

James Wiley Taylor

James Wiley Taylor, age 90, of Tilly, Arkansas, passed from this life on Friday, January 22nd, 2021, at Ozark Health in Clinton, Arkansas.

He was born in Dustin, Oklahoma, on April 12th, 1930, to Hugh Bassham Taylor and Lela Elizabeth Wood Taylor.

James joined the United States Navy at the age of 17 and served during the Korean War. After his discharge from the Navy, he returned to Oklahoma and married Phyllis Eileen, Clark's love. James began working for the Public Service of Oklahoma as a mechanic in Weleetka and Oologah. He retired after 37 years of service. After his son's death, James and Phyllis moved to Tilly, Arkansas, to be close to their daughter and family. He took great pride in watching his grandsons grow up and attending their sporting events.

James enjoyed hunting and watching sports of any kind but especially football.

He leaves behind his daughter, Lana Casto, and husband Danny of Tilly. His grandsons, Daniel Casto and wife Amanda of Tilly and Dylan Casto and wife Stephanie of Russellville; granddaughter, Stacey Green of Broken Arrow, OK; great-grandchildren, Jacob Casto, Brent Casto, Matthew Casto, Maci Casto, Tristan McMillan, Amee Green, and David

Green; one sister, Rubye Eldridge of Henryetta, OK; and many nieces, nephews and extended family who will also mourn his passing.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Lela Taylor. His wife of 57 years, Phyllis Eileen Clark Taylor, passed away in 2011. One son, Terry Taylor; granddaughter, Ginger Crittenden; and siblings, H.B., Walter "Tip," Harlan, Bennie, an infant brother, Eula, Billie Jean, Patsy, and Norma.

James's graveside services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, January 26th, 2021, at Union Hill Cemetery in Tilly, Arkansas, with Brother Bob Harmon officiating.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Casto, Dylan Casto, Jacob Casto, Brent Casto, Verlan Casto, Shawn Casto, and Milburn Small. Honorary pallbearers will be Matthew Casto, Maci Casto, and James' nephews.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are practicing social distancing at our graveside services, and all patrons are required to provide and wear their masks.

We ask anyone with underlying health conditions to stay home. You may sign our online guestbook on our website: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/marshall.

Janice Elaine Branscum

Janice Elaine Branscum, age 68, of Leslie, Arkansas, passed from this life on Monday, January 18th, 2021, at her home. In Hiawatha, Kansas, she was born on June 8th, 1952, to La-

Evelyn Prestage passed away at age 79. She was cherished by all who knew her.

Mary was born on November 23, 1941, and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, one of six children of Lee Roy and Clara Clytee (Crumpton) Pannell.

She was affectionately known as “Sister” by all of her family. Mary graduated from Frayser High School and attended Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. Among her many interests, she had a passion for sports and fulfilled her dream of playing basketball and volleyball while attending high school and college.

On March 14, 1964, Mary wed the love of her life, Leslie Gene Prestage, and they began their journey together. Mary and Gene’s lives were genuinely intertwined, but especially so during the last years of her life. Gene entirely devoted all his time to her care, rarely leaving her side. She was “his girl,” and he was her constant companion.

From their union came a precious son, Les, and a lovely daughter, Amber. For the past several years, Amber and her husband, John, and her sons, Alex and Ashton, devoted their lives to caring for their mother and brother during their extended illnesses.

Mary had several careers throughout her life. After more than 20 years, she retired from Dupont, then became a realtor and finally a Coordinator for the Van Buren County Senior Centers. Most importantly, Mary was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother.

She treasured Mary Evelyn Prestage her children and emOn Wednesday, braced every moment January 20, 2021, Mary of their lives as well as her grandchildren. She especially loved being a grandmother. She loved it so much that Verne Russell and Mary Ellen Ziegler Russell.

Janice was a woman with a strong Christian faith and attended the Marshall Church of God. She enjoyed gardening and any outdoor activity. Janice loved animals, especially her dogs. Janice was very accepting of others and made everyone she met feel like family. She was most at home visiting with her family and friends. Janice loved without questions, and her family was very dear to her heart.

Survivors include her son, Ronnie Branscum of Leslie; one sister, Mary Tipling of Gravette; and many other extended families and dear friends who will mourn her passing.

Janice is preceded in death by her parents, LaVerne and Mary Russell; her husband, Lonnie Branscum, passed away in 2001; one daughter, Rhonda Branscum; and her siblings, LaVerne, Harlan, Neil, Gary, Sharon, and June.

Janice's graveside services were at 2:00 PM Friday, January 22nd, 2021, at Pordue Cemetery near Onia, Arkansas. Sister Lorene Mason and Brother Bill Mann officiated. Pallbearers were Gunner Evenson, Van Moore Jr., Forest Cantrell, Randall Cantrell, and Earl Pruitt.

You may sign our online guestbook on our website: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/marshall.

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Page 5 she “adopted” a close friend’s three sons and became their grandmother also. Mary lived long enough to welcome her newest great-granddaughter, Sofia Grace Prestage, in October.

Mary may no longer be with us, but her legacy will always remain until we see her again. She taught us by her gentle example how a true friend, wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and person should be. Mary was a devoted Christian who lived her faith the way Jesus taught. She only saw the good in everyone. Mary gave generously, loved everyone, judged no-one, and freely forgave others.

She was a hard worker and never met a stranger. We will always remember her.

Mary is survived by her beloved, Gene Prestage, Sr.; daughter, Amber (John) McIntosh; grandsons, Wilson (Luisa) Prestage; Alex Klepko, Ashton Klepko; adopted grandsons, Wiley (Krista) Duncan, Michael (Danielle) Duncan and Brendan Pett; great-granddaughter Sofia Prestage; adopted great-granddaughters, Kylie Wade and Natalie Duncan; brother, James Pannell; sister, Judy (Allen) Green; and sister, Sherry (James) Moore and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, sister, Dorothy Hadaway, sister, Wilma Holland and son, Leslie Gene Prestage, Jr. (Les), who passed away on March 15, 2020.

Family and Friends are invited to attend Funeral Services for Mary Prestage at Fairfield Bay Baptist Church on Tuesday, January 26, 2021, at 2:00 p.m.

Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. before funeral services commence.

Burial will be at Eglantine Cemetery immedi-

ately following.

The funeral will be live-streamed on the Fairfield Bay Baptist Church FaceBook page.

Mark Melton Watson

Mark Melton Watson, the son of Samuel Watson and Yvonne Melton Watson, was born in Los Angeles, California, on January 1, 1962, and passed away in Clinton, Arkansas, on January 13, 2021, at the age of 59 years.

Mark was a member of the First United Methodist Church and worked as a salesman.

Mark grew up in West Memphis, Arkansas, graduated from West Memphis High School and graduated from Christian Brothers University. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and scored the 4th largest buck in Buckmasters History named The Watson Brothers Buck.

Mark was a resident of Bee Branch, Arkansas, and owned a home in Horton, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Yvonne Watson, and Melody Scott Watson, his wife.

Survivors include his father Samuel Watson, two brothers, Rob Watson and wife Mary and Matt Watson and wife Susan, and a very special friend Kristy Rakestraw. and friends Ric Cothren and Bruce Van-Epps. Also, surviving Mark is his wife’s Melody’s parents Don Scott and Ellagene Scott of Branson, Missouri.

The family will plan a Celebration of Life Service at a later date.

Death Notices

William Bart Madden November 1949 January 2021 Francis Bernice Williams July 1950 - January 2021

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Fun & Games

Music Trivia Who Sang It?

Puzzle solutions on page 2

Sudoku Sudoku: The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes (also called blocks

or regions) contains the digits from 1 to 9.

A cell is the smallest block in the game. A row, column and region consists of 9 cells and the whole game consists of 81 cells.

Where in the county is this?

He had memories pressed between the pages of his mind in 1968 He wanted to go back and do it all over again in 1986 They asked, Did you ever think we could be so close, like Brothers? in 1990 He said, Everyone I know goes away in the end in 2002 He believed, We’ll be glad for all the life we’ve had in 2003 He said, If it has to end I am glad you have been my friend in 2010

Answers

Eddie Money Elvis Presley

Down 1 Unit of electric capacitance 2 South American animal 3 Bidden 4 Person who attends something regularly 5 Hefty 6 Written material 7 Bad (prefix) 8 Cast metal 9 Brave 10 Abdominal muscles (abbr.)

11 Tell a tall tale 12 Explosive 15 Territory governed by a distant country 20 Island 22 Suggests 26 Natural resin 27 Diving birds 28 Hand shovel 29 Before (prefix) 30 Narrow openings 31 Evils 33 Sound 34 Household cleaner brand 35 Playing field 36 City in Yemen 39 Midwestern state denizen 40 Sign of the zodiac 42 Historic name for grapefruit 43 Formal expression of preference in an election 46 Mold 48 Specific area of land 49 Pet _ (annoyance) 50 Look at steadily 51 Celebrate noisily 52 Perfect 54 Ding's partner 56 Clawed sea life 57 Discs 58 Lube 59 Energy unit 61 Armed fighting between nations

Scorpions

1 National symbol 5 Partial 9 Thick drink 13 As well as 14 Russian ruler 15 Log house 16 Collect leaves 17 Capital of Norway 18 Beginning 19 United States of America 21 Void 23 Male parent 24 Heavens 25 Members of a monarch's family 29 Employ something as a weapon or tool 30 Signal 32 Wipe 33 Sound loudly and harshly 36 Back street 37 Constrictor snake 38 Greek stringed instrument 39 Heathen gods 40 Allow to borrow 41 Compass point 42 Poetry writers 43 Line of poetry 44 Long time 45 Has 46 Cow speak 47 Blood part 49 Cavity 50 Lanka 53 Watch out for 55 Voted in 57 Small group of people engaged in a secret plot 60 Overdue 62 Praise enthusiastically 63 Me too 64 Central church part 65 Domain 66 Swerve 67 Nourished 68 Makes a ringing sound when struck with a hard object

Solve the Word Find or Where In the County Is This? for your chance to win a one-year subscription to The Voice.

Puzzle entries may not be a photocopy; originals from newspaper only. A drawing from correct entries will be held each month and the winning name will receive a one-year subscription to The Voice. There will be one winner each month.

To enter, mail your puzzles to The Voice/P.O. Box 1396/Clinton AR 72031 or drop them by our downtown office, 328 Main St., Clinton. You can also call 745-8040 to tell us where the week's picture was taken.

Deadline to enter is February 1, 2021 at 2 p.m. The drawing will be at 4 p.m.

Johnny Cash

Across

Rules

Alan Jackson

Weekly Crossword

January 26, 2021

Tyrone Wells

Page 6

Where in Van Buren County can you see this?

Tell us for a chance to win a one-year subscription to The Voice. Rules on this page.

(Last week’s location was Davis Cash Ace, 812 Park Street, Clinton.)

The Voice of Van Buren County

January 26, 2021

January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Athan Hensley January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Avis Jean Black January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barb Ragland January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brian Jenkins January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danilyn Murray January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eddie Johnson January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holly Treece January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Imogene Black January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jack Hensley January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jose Zavaka January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Josh Felton January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Grillot January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Renia Robinette January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steven Jones January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sue Clark January 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Will Palmer January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ann Vaughn January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Donna Cleaver January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Faith Qualls January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gabe Williams January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Haley Stewart January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hannah Prout January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Herb Shockley January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jodi Wood January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Walker

Make us your Birthday Headquarters!

Main Street Florist & Gifts Happy Birthday Wishes Tammie Williams, owner 374 Main Street Clinton, AR • (501)745-3569 We deliver same day.

Teleflora & FTD Wire Services Available

www.mainstreetfloristclinton.com

January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Penny Standlee January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rosetta Sheets January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stanley Duncan January 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Will Palmer January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . Brandon Williams January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . George Silva January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Vittitow January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerri Kennedy January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerry Doyle January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerry Davis January 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jimmy Gaddy January 29 . . . . . . . . . . Larry Ray Lumpkins January 29 . . . . . . . Marsha Collister Gabel January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Meinke January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael Crowell January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . Rachael Newland January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . Sharon Anderson January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steven Maulden January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sue Grinder January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . Sylvia Smith Pool January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vera Ott January 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zed Sutterfield January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alice Chambers January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ashley Mason January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bridgett Jones

Page 7

January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danniell Kozma January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Evelyn Jacobs January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . Henry Jack Cotton January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jim Whisenant January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . John Hastings III January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Hazelwood January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Hudson January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Linn January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . Shawn Matthews January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tim Estes January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Bass January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dana Grantham January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fred Shook January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jack A. Koch January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeremy Blood January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lisa Dowling January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maegan Elkins January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Tucker January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Johnson January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruby Birkes January 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Russ Cullum February 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Cook February 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Hazelwood February 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheila McGrath

We will have a Monthly Drawing from the Birthday names for a gift from one of the Birthday Page Sponsors!

Simply stop by our office and add your family and friends to our birthday list or email names and dates to us at thevoice@artelco.com or call us (501) 745-8040.

Sign up once and you are done.

Happy Birthday Wishes

Clinton - 179 Elm Street - 501-745-2441 Fairfield Bay - 121 Lost Creek Pkwy - 501-884-3384 www.regions.com Member FDIC

from

Susie Allen’s Salon Please call for appointments

501-745-4247 for you and your family.

P.E.H. Supply Inc. Plumbing, Electrical, Hardware, Industrial.

Happy Birthday Wishes to You! Cletes "Bill" Blantz, owner MMC (SW) U.S. Navy (Ret.) 4319 Highway 65 South Clinton, Arkansas 72031 Phone: 501-745-6222 Fax: 501-745-2102

Happyhday birthes! wis RadioShack®

Northside Shopping Center 117 Bone St

501-745-4988

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 8

January 26, 2021

Classifieds • Legal RESEARCH

REAL ESTATE For Sale

Reflect A Moment He said, "Happy are the merciful, for they will have mercy shown to them!”

MISC. FOR SALE

For Sale: 37acres +/-.

Wooded, on county road, has power available. Nice views and wildlife.

Chimes community, Searcy County. $74,000 501-745-8484

REAL ESTATE

DUPLEXES FOR RENT Nice 1000 sqft 2-bedroom Duplexes with appliances. No Pets. No Smoking. $600-$650/month plus deposit.

Call: 501-745-5858 or 501-412-7682

LEGAL

SPONSORED BY J.P. DELL HOLT ORDINANCE NO. 2021-01

Small 2BR, 1BA in Leslie.

Corner of 5th and Elm close to school close to Buffalo River ********** Big yard Good for single or couple ********** $24,000 negotiable call (501) 757-1617

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF THE COUNTY OF VAN BUREN, STATE OF ARKANSAS, AN ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED: AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE TO ADDRESS LEAVE POLICIES IN TIMES OF A PUBLIC-HEALTH EMERGENCY DECLARED

BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ARKANSAS. WHEREAS, Governor Asa Hutchinson has declared a public-health emergency due to the COVID-19 virus entering Arkansas; WHEREAS, quarantine is one of the recommended management tools by the CDC to prevent the spread ofCOVID-19;

WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the County, it's employees, and the public, that persons who have been exposed to COVID-19 or who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 be able to remain in quarantine for the recommended period;

NOW THEREFORE; 1) During the state of public health emergency declared by the Governor due to COVID-19,the following rules will be in place:

20x40 Office with 8x40 Covered Porch and 3 Green Houses on 1 acre on Highway 65 South, Clinton, AR

Call 501-940-5448

For Rent

Shop Booth 94 at Howard's Antiques

Applicants must have their own tools.

Reliability, cleanliness and the ability to meet deadlines are necessary for this position. ************ Applications may be picked up at 160 Park Street, Clinton AR 72031

3) Employees who are diagnosed with COVID-19 shall not return to work until their suggested quarantine has been fulfilled. A medical release shall be required from the physician or physician's office who originally diagnosed the employee. An employee who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 shall be paid for up to fourteen days, from the date of diagnosis, or until they are released to return to work.

This paid time shall not be taken out of any leave bank of the employee.

a. Employees who choose to stay home under this option are required to use any accrued paid time off, including sick leave, vacation leave, comp time, and personal time off.

EMPLOYMENT

is looking to hire a full time small engine mechanic.

a. The elected official may use their discretion to identify an employee subject to quarantine based on identified risk factors as explained by the CDC, or based on fact specific information related to travel locations, or high-risk transmission settings, or personal contact with a presumptive case of COVID-19.

4) Employees who do not qualify for sections 2 or 3 of this Ordinance, but who have a school-aged child, who has experienced a school closing or mandatory quarantine, may choose to stay home with their child without being subject to discipline for attendance.

for crocheted items, knickknacks, dishes and jewelry.

FL Davis Cash Lumber

2) Employees who are placed on a quarantine, either by their physician or by their elected official, shall be paid for the quarantine period, up to fourteen days. This paid time shall not be taken out of any leave bank of the employee. For physician-imposed quarantine, the employee must provide documentation from the doctor's office.

b. Once paid time off has been exhausted, the employee may refer to the Catastrophic Leave Bank Policy. c. Unused leave time through this COVID-19 ordinance shall not convey to the Catastrophic Leave Fund.

For Rent 2 BR, 1Bath Apt near School and DownTown ***************** Trash removal and Water Furnished Call: 745-8644 or 253-0664

FOR RENT Apartments and mobile homes in Bee Branch area. $450-$650/month.

Deposit required.

Call for availability (501) 581-8640

5) Employees who choose to take time off during this declared public-health emergency for any reason other than those listed above, are still subject to the regular leave provisions as outlined in the County Personnel Policy.

6) Employees who have sustained payments from their accrued personal leave time for quarantines shall be reimbursed to January 1, 2021.

7) Employees of essential positions may be asked continue to work until a positive test is presented.

8) EMERGENCY CLAUSE. There is significant risk to public health and safety posed by the spread of COVID-19.

The Van Buren County Quorum Court has determined that this Ordinance is necessary to help prevent the spread of the illness within the County and to members of the general public who may visit county offices. Therefore, an emergency is hereby declared to exist, and this Ordinance, being necessary for the preservation of public health, safety and welfare, shall be effective from and after its date of passage.

Approved this 22nd day of January , 2020 APPROVED: /s/ Dale James Dale James, County Judge ATTEST /s/ Pam Bradford Pam Bradford County Clerk

LEGAL

LEGAL

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS

Sponsored by J.P. N. Brown

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS

FIRST DIVISION

FIRST DIVISION

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CYNTHIA ANN BURKHART A/K/A/CYNTHIA ANN LOPEZ, deceased NO. 71PR-21-6 NOTICE TO CREDITORS LAST KNOWN ADDRESS OF DECEDENT: 7340 LUXOR STREET DOWNEY, CA 90241 DATE OF DEATH: SEPTEMBER 25, 2018 The undersigned on the 20th day of January caused an Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate to be filed with respect to the Estate of Cynthia Ann Burkhart, deceased, with the Clerk of the probate division of the Circuit Court of Van Buren County under A.C.A. 28-41-101.

All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate.

THIS NOTICE first published this 26th day of January , 2021.

By: /s/ Kent Tester KENT TESTER, AR Bar #: 89123 Attorney for the Estate 230 Hwy. 65 North, Suite 7 Clinton, AR 72031 (501) 745-7077 FAX (501) 745-6161 kent@testerlaw.com

WHEREAS, the quarantine period recommended by the CDC varies from the time of exposure;

WHEREAS, the County is attempting to ensure employees are able to remain in quarantine for the recommended period, or are able to remain in quarantine after having a confirmed case of COVID-19, without suffering undue hardship which may be created by limited availability of leave;

FOR SALE OR LEASE

LEGAL

BEN BRADY HAYES, deceased 71PR-21-3 NOTICE TO CREDITORS LAST KNOWN ADDRESS OF DECEDENT: 123 E James Road Clinton, AR 72031 DATE OF DEATH: December 22, 2020 The undersigned was appointed Executor of the estate of the abovenamed decedent on January 19, 2020. A contest of the probate can be effected only by filing a petition within the time provided by law.

All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate. Provided, that claims for injury or death caused by the negligence of the decedent shall be filed within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of the notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in such estate.

THIS NOTICE first published this 26th day of January , 2021.

STEVE EVANS, Executor By: /s/ M. Edward Morgan M. EDWARD MORGAN, Bar No.82113 MORGAN LAW FIRM, P.A. Attorney for Estate 244 Highway 65 N, Suite 5 Clinton, AR 72031 (501) 745-4044

VAN BUREN COUNTY QUORUM COURT ORDINANCE NO. 2021-04 BE IT ENACTED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF THE COUNTY OF VAN BUREN,STATE OF ARKANSAS, AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED: AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ORIGINAL APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE #2020-42, THE ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET FOR 2021, TO INCREASE THE PROJECTED REVENUE AND APPROPRIATE $15,579.00 INTO THE COURTHOUSE ANNEX BUDGET#1000-120.

WHEREAS: A loan was taken out for the Heat and Air Units in the Courthouse Annex at First Service Bank; and WHEREAS: Monies will need to be appropriated so that monthly payments can be made.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS THAT: a total of $15,579.00 be appropriated into the Courthouse Annex Budget #1000-120 as follows; 1000-120-5003 Note Principal $12,709.00 1000-120-5004 Note Interest $2,870.00 Approved this 21st day of January , 2021 APPROVED: /s/ Dale James Dale James, County Judge ATTEST /s/ Pam Bradford Pam Bradford County Clerk

Sponsored by J.P. R. Hensley IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS FOURTH DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LARRY R. LINN, deceased NO. 71PR-20-82 NOTICE Last known address of decedent: 5153 Hwy 95 East Bee Branch, Arkansas 72013 Date of Death: July 30, 2020 The undersigned was appointed Administrator of the estate of the above decedent on the 18th day of August, 2020.

All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall forever be barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate.

This notice first published the 26 day of January , 2021.

Doris Linn, Administrator By: /s/ Chad J. Brown CHAD J. BROWN, I.D. No. 2010085 Attorney at Law 203 Court Street Clinton, AR 72031 501-745-8801 FAX 501-745-6262

ORDINANCE NO. 2021-01 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE POLICY AND PROCEDURES MANUAL OF THE CLINTON POLICE DEPARTMENT REGARDING RESPONSE TO RESISTANCE AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY. WHEREAS, the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police updated its model policy regarding response to resistance in 2020; and WHEREAS, the Policy and Procedures Manual for the Clinton Police Department needs to be amended to reflect the update to the model policy.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Clinton, Arkansas: Section 1. Title 14 of the Policies and Procedures Manual as set out in a final draft dated May 4, 2018 by the Chief of Police of the Clinton, Arkansas Police Department is hereby amended as set forth in the attached Exhibit A, which is incorporated herein word for word.

Section 2. That a copy of said Policies and Procedures Manual shall be on file with the City Clerk of the City of Clinton.

Section 3. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of that conflict.

Section 4. EMERGENCY CLAUSE. It is hereby declared that an emergency exists as the city police department must implement updated practices for the safety of officers and the general public.

This Ordinance is necessary to preserve the peace, health and welfare of the citizens of the City of Clinton, Arkansas, and therefore shall be enforced from and after the date of its passage.

PASSED: January 14, 2021 APPROVED: /s/ Richard W. McCormac Richard W. McCormac Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Dena R. Malone Dena R. Malone, CMC, CAMC Recorder/Treasurer

VAN BUREN COUNTY QUORUM COURT ORDINANCE NO. 2021-03 BE IT ENACTED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF THE COUNTY OF VAN BUREN,STATE OF ARKANSAS, AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED: AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ORIGINAL APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE #2020-42, THE ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET FOR 2021, TO INCREASE THE PROJECTED REVENUE AND APPROPRIATE $669.04 INTO THE DETENTION CENTER BUDGET#1000-418.

WHEREAS: $100.00 was donated by the First Baptist Church to help with a Christmas meal for Inmates; and WHEREAS: $100.00 should be appropriated into line item #1000-418-2005 Food; and WHEREAS: $569.04 was reimbursed from the Van Buren County Sheriff Inmate Commissary Account for inmate supplies; and WHEREAS: $569.04 should be appropriated into line item #1000-418-2009 Inmate Supplies.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS THAT: a total of$669.04 be appropriated into the Detention Center Budget as stated above.

Approved this 21st day of January, 2021 APPROVED: /s/ Dale James Dale James, County Judge ATTEST /s/ Pam Bradford Pam Bradford County Clerk

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS FOURTH DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS LILLIAN DUNN, deceased NO. 71PR-20-108 NOTICE TO CREDITORS LAST KNOWN ADDRESS OF DECEDENT: 16089 Highway 16 West Clinton, AR 72031 DATE OF DEATH: September 8, 2020 The undersigned was appointed Executor of the estate of the abovenamed decedent on December 23, 2020. A contest of the probate can be effected only by filing a petition within the time provided by law.

All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, duly verified, to the undersigned within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in the estate. Provided, that claims for injury or death caused by the negligence of the decedent shall be filed within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of the notice, or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit in such estate.

THIS NOTICE first published this 19th day of January , 2021.

JOSHUA RADCLIFF, Executor By: /s/ Natan S. Morgan NATHAN S. MORGAN, Bar No.2009269 MORGAN LAW FIRM, P.A. Attorney for Estate 244 Highway 65 N, Suite 5 Clinton, AR 72031 (501) 745-4044

Sponsored by J.P. S. Brown ORDINANCE NO. 2021-02 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CLINTON, ARKANSAS TO PERMIT STEVE NUNLEY TO CONDUCT BUSINESS WITH THE CITY. WHEREAS, Steve Nunley’s submitted the lowest bid for work on Town Branch; and WHEREAS, Steve Nunley is appointed to the Clinton Zoning Commission and is therefore an official of the City of Clinton, Arkansas; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Arkansas Code Annotated § 14-42-107, a council member, official or employee of a city shall not be interested, directly or indirectly, in the profits of any contract for furnishing supplies, equipment, or services to the municipality unless the governing body of the city has enacted an ordinance specifically permitting council members, officials, or municipal employees to conduct business with the city and prescribing the extent of this authority; and WHEREAS, this ordinance is necessary to comply with the requirements of the above referenced statute.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Clinton, Arkansas that Steve Nunley is permitted to provide services for with the City of Clinton, Arkansas as specified in the bid attached hereto and incorporated herein as “Exhibit A”.

PASSED: January 14, 2021 APPROVED: /s/ Richard W. McCormac Richard W. McCormac Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Dena R. Malone Dena R. Malone, CMC, CAMC Recorder/Treasurer

VAN BUREN COUNTY QUORUM COURT ORDINANCE NO. 2021-02 BE IT ENACTED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF THE COUNTY OF VAN BUREN, STATE OF ARKANSAS, AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE TO BE ENTITLED: AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE TO TRANSFER AND APPROPRIATE MONIES BACK INTO THE COUNTY GENERAL FUND FROM THE COUNTY ROAD FUND. WHEREAS: Two payrolls were paid out of the County Judge's General budget for two employees; and WHEREAS: these two payrolls should have been paid from the County Road Fund, and WHEREAS: the following will need to be transferred and appropriated back to County General.

2000-200-1001 to 1000-1001001 Salaries-FIT $4,162.06 2000-200-1006 to 1000-1001006 Social Security $ 295.11 2000-200-1008 to 1000-1001008 Retirement $ 571.60 totaling $5,028.77 NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE QUORUM COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS THAT: $5,028.77 be transferred and appropriated to County General Fund from the County Road Fund.

Approved this 21st day of January, 2021 APPROVED: /s/ Dale James Dale James, County Judge ATTEST /s/ Pam Bradford Pam Bradford County Clerk

January 26, 2021

The Voice of Van Buren County

Fishing Report past couple of days.

Crappie has moved to deeper waters; some people have been able to find them, but it's hard. Overcup has started to clear up. The lake is high by about 1 to 1.5 feet over the normal level.

Lake Maumelle

Central Arkansas

Lake Beaverfork

Angler Dennis Charles said water remains clear and cold.

Crappie very slow. Catfish are deep and hiding. Black bass is roaming all over and all depths, but the bite is questionable. For more information, visit his Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/groups/arkansasfishingadventures

Little Red River

Greg Seaton of littleredflyfishingtrips. com (501-690-9166) said, "First of all, Happy New Year! I hope 2021 brings a more typical year health-wise to all. 2020 was a stressful year for most, and I hope the fishing trips on the river ease this stress. Sorry I have not posted a report in a while. I have excuses, but you don't want to hear them. Getting busier in December, more than average, and not fishing much in early January are the main ones.

"After no generation for a majority of the time during December and early January, the schedule has returned to a more typical winter generation. Mostly early morning generation

for 2-4 hours. There has also been a slight bit of generation in the evening hours. This should continue until the temperature warms or we get a large amount of rain to put the lake into the flood pool. As always, this is not written in stone, so please check the schedule before planning your trip.

"The app, USACE Little Rock, is a good source and is free to download to your mobile phone. The current generation and past 24 hours are found by pressing the 'Releases' icon on the home page's upper left corner. The predicted generation is found by pressing the SWPA Forecasts icon on the third row of icons on the home page. Select the day and scroll to the GFD row to view Little Red River (Greers Ferry Dam). Be sure the date is correct because the postings occur after 4 p.m. each day for the next day. After 4 p.m. on Friday, they are posted for Saturday, Sunday and Monday."

Greg says the river is clear with rainbows taking midge pupas, size 16 hare's ear nymphs, and small emergers. There is a midge hatch daily with some winter caddis coming off as the

temps warm in the afternoons. The browns are ending the spawn, and a few are being caught above and below the shoals. Reports show the spawn was successful, with a lot of redds being seen.

Greers Ferry Lake

The Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake's elevation at 461.77 feet msl (regular conservation pool: 462.04 feet msl). (updated 1-212021) Fish' N Stuff (501834-5733) in Sherwood says the lake is clear and at a normal level.

Bass fishing is good on red crankbaits, green pumpkin Chatterbaits, jerk baits, and Alabama rigs.

Harris Brake Lake

Harris Brake Lake Resort (501-889-2745) says the lake clarity is clear, and the water level remains low. Crappie is fair on minnows and jigs. Bream fishing was poor this week.

Bass are fair on topwater baits and crankbaits. Catfishing is fair; use chicken liver.

Lake Overcup

Randy DeHart at Lakeview Landing (501-354-5309) said Wednesday the bream are biting a little but have slowed down the

The Dirty Worm (501-317-5046) on Highway 5 at Crows Station in Saline County reports that crappie fishing is excellent in 35-feet or more water depth. Crappie is being caught around structure on No. 6 crappie minnows with a 1/8-ounce jighead. Crappie is also being caught on Kalin's Triple Threat Grubs in assorted darker colors.

The Dirty Worm opened late in 2020 near the intersection of Arkansas highways 5 and 9; the store's address is 17572 Arkansas Highway 5, Lonsdale, AR 72087.

Arkansas River at Morrilton

Charlie Hoke at Charlie's Hidden Harbor at Oppelo (501354-8080) had no report.

Little Maumelle River

Ray Hudson at River Valley Marina (501517-1250) says the water is very clear, and the level and current are back to normal. Both black and white bass fishing has been excellent the past week, Ray says. Throw crappie jigs and target 7-10 feet depth of water while you're crappie fishing, and you'll probably also snag a black bass or white bass. Crankbaits are also getting bit by the bass at that level. Crappie will bite those crappie jigs, too, even at 7-10 feet depth

of water. Anglers report catching them early or late in the day, and they say catches are good.

Minnows also will work along with the jigs.

There are no reports on bream or catfish.

Arkansas River (Maumelle Pool)

On Thursday, the Corps of Engineers said water flow at the Toad Suck Lock and Dam was 32,106 cfs.

No report.

North Arkansas

White River

Cotter Trout Dock (870-435-6525) said Bull Shoals Lake is currently at the stated power pool goal of 659 feet MSL, and it appears that generation flows will begin to slow. Predicted levels for Thursday are at minimum flow, which is less than 1,000 CFS, the first shallow water level for several weeks.

That means wading opportunities will abound; great anchor fishing is in-store and the use of floating stick baits instead of diving or sinking lures. Use a smaller hook than you might be used to: a No. 8 or 10, stick to bronze hooks; leave the gold hooks on the shelf. We've had success with orange and peach egg patterns placed just above the knot at the eye of the hook. If you don't get a rapid response, add a sliver of shrimp to the barb. The supply chain for all types of fishing gear dried up during the last six months, but we're finally able to get our hands on some baits and are finding some good looking Mepps spinners.

Try the new Aglia streamer with a long

Page 9

white skirt with flash and a gold or bronze blade. Perfect time of year for white baits, as they imitate the White River minnows that are a favorite trout meal and lure the bigger trout as they're coming off the spawning beds. Spring is still a ways away, so make sure you bundle up for early morning trips to the river; the temperature can be 5 to 10 degrees colder on the river than the thermometer reads. Stay warm and keep anglin'.

Bull Shoals Lake

As of Thursday, the Army Corps of Engineers reported the lake's elevation at 658.61 feet MSL (normal conservation pool: 659.00 feet MSL). The reported lake elevation at Table Rock Lake was 914.91 feet MSL (normal conservation pool: 915.00 feet MSL).

Del Colvin at Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock says the baitfish are moving again in the creeks and main lake pockets. Spend your idle time on the graph looking for loons and video gaming, and that will pay off. Fish 50-80 feet in the guts. Most of the shad are suspended over the old creek channels. A Rapala Ice Rig or a Jewell Spoon is useful if it's windy.

Use a Damiki drop-shot or McMinnow if it's flat.

Go power fishing shallow if there's wind, cloud, bushes/snags with deeper water close and shad. Rock Crawler, Wiggle Wart, and square bill are all working with some wind on 45-degree banks with nasty rock transition. Moss is becoming prevalent and is a pain.

As the sun comes up, or after a front, change tactics and slow down.

Jackson's Farm Service Water Well Drilling & Pump In-

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VBC TRANSFER STATION & RECYCLING CENTER OPEN: Mon-Fri 7am-3:15pm & the 1st SAT of each month 8am-noon 745-6996

Got a story, a history or an event to share?

Send it to: thevoice@artelco.com

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 10

January 26, 2021

CHURCH PAGE

Photo by EuGene Smith

Thanks to those of you who called and correctly identified last week's featured church as Corinth Baptist Church. If you can identify this week's Church call 745-8040.

(Remember to give me a contact for the history of your Church. We want to print the history of every Church in Van Buren County. With your help, we will!)

Antioch General Baptist Church 1608 Highway 9, Fox (870)363-4509 Archey Valley Community Church Highway 254, Chimes Bee Branch Baptist 11509 Hwy 65 South, Bee Branch 654-2630 Bethel Community Church 17904 Highway 95 W, Cleveland Botkinburg Baptist Church 9297 Highway 65 N, Botkinburg 757-2069 Botkinburg Community Foursquare Church 7054 Highway 65 N, Botkinburg 745-2311 Burnt Ridge Community Church 5846 Burnt Ridge Road, Clinton 745-6737 Calvary Missionary Baptist Church ABA 144 Nickie Ave., Clinton 745-3245 Choctaw Baptist Church 208 Highway 330 E, Clinton 745-7370 Choctaw Christian Center 4157 Highway 65 S, Choctaw 745-8264 Choctaw Church of Christ 233 Highway 330 E, Choctaw 745-8264 Christian Fellowship Church 674 Highway 658, Clinton Church of Christ 20452 Highway 16 W, Alread 745-5498 Church of the Nazarene 1664 Highway 65 S, Clinton Clinton Church of Christ 184 Third Street, Clinton 745-4252 Clinton Seventh-day Adventist Church 125 Skyhill Drive, Clinton 745-4532 Clinton United Methodist Church 636 Joe Bowling Road, Clinton 745-5181 Colony Church of Christ Hwy 92 E, Bee Branch Corinth Baptist Church 5158 Holley Mountain Road, Clinton Cornerstone Evangelical Church 3351 Highway 330 S, Fairfield Bay 884-6657 Crabtree Foursquare Church 11301 Highway 16 W, Crabtree 745-2894 Culpepper Community Church 6055 Highway 336 W, Culpepper Culpepper Mountain Church of Christ 118 South Essie Road, Culpepper Damascus United Methodist Church 17194 Highway 65 S, Damascus Eagle Heights Baptist Church Independent Fundamental VBC Fairgrounds, Clinton 757-0013

Eglantine Church of Christ 3796 Highway 330 S, Shirley 884-6880 Fairbanks Community Church 4753 Arkansas 356 E, Bee Branch Fairfield Bay Baptist Church 481 Dave Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay 884-3371 Fairfield Bay United Methodist Church 765 Dave Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay 884-3373 Faith Christian 10839 Edgemont Road, Edgemont 723-8109 Faith Church Highway 65 N & Harper Mountain Lane, Dennard, AR 72629 Faith Lutheran Church 310 Snead Drive, Fairfield Bay 884-3375 First Assembly of God Church 2466 Highway 65 N, Clinton 745-2285 First Baptist Church of Clinton 211 First Baptist Road, Clinton 745-6113 First Baptist Church of Damascus 43 Oak Tree Road, Damascus 335-7440 First Baptist Church of Sugarloaf 557 Arkansas 337, Higden 654-2354 First General Baptist Church 664 Highway 16 E, Clinton 745-4043 First Pentecostal Church of Clinton Highway 65 S at 1128 Lyn Road, Choctaw Formosa Baptist Church 630 Highway 9 W, Clinton 745-7709 Formosa Church of Christ 6603 Highway 9 West Clinton AR. 745-4446 Friendship Baptist Church 1321 Third St., Clinton 745-7177 Full Gospel Tabernacle 128 Catland Lane, Shirley 723-4500 Grace Church 3793 Highway 65 S, Clinton 472-7462 Half Moon Baptist Church 1031 Half Moon Road, Clinton 745-2273 Harmony Mountain Church of Christ Quattlebaum and Harmony Mtn Roads 745-2059 Hope Community Church 905 Damascus Road, Quitman Immanuel Baptist Church 498 Highway 16 E, Clinton 745-8528 Kaley Hill Missionary Baptist 6505 Highway 356, Bee Branch Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses 3624 Highway 65 S, Clinton 745-8781

Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church 250 Dave Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay 884-3304 Lexington Baptist Church 9525 Highway 110, Clinton 723-4787 Liberty Missionary Baptist Church 2712 Highway 254 W, Chimes Community Low Gap Community Chapel 4320 Low Gap Road, Alread Lute Mountain Community Church Lute Mountain Road, off Highway 16, Shirley 723-8299 Main Line Full Gospel 114 Mariposa Loop, Bee Branch 253-1005 Maranatha Assembly of God 11929 Highway 16 E, Shirley 723-8181 Mount Zion Church of Christ 1202 Highway 16 W, Clinton 745-2572 Mount Zion General Baptist 2333 Mount Zion Road, Bee Branch 362-3807 New Beginning Church 12200 Highway 254 E, Dennard New Hope Baptist Church 4198 Highway 65 N, Clinton 757-2332 New Liberty Church of Christ 4815 Highway 95, Cleveland 669-2575 New Life Apostolic Church of Clinton 198 Richard Road, Clinton 745-6411 Peace Lutheran Church of Edgemont 10849 Edgemont Road, Edgemont 723-4726 Pee Dee Baptist Church 2744 Highway 16 E, Clinton 745-4115 Pine Grove General Baptist Church 102 Silvertree Road, Shirley Pine Mountain General Baptist Church Gravesville Cutoff Road, South of Bee Branch Plant Baptist Church 4897 Highway 110, Clinton 745-6887 Pleasant Grove Friendship Church 22210 Highway 16 W, Alread 745-8450 Pleasant Valley Baptist Church 5092 Banner Mtn Road, Shirley 723-4737 Pleasant Valley General Baptist No. 1 5153 Highway 92 W, Bee Branch Point Remove Baptist Church 10954 Highway 336 W, Formosa Rabbit Ridge Church of Christ 215 Rabbit Ridge Road, Bee Branch 745-4634

Red River of Life Church of God 10839 Edgemont Road, Edgemont 723-8109 Rupert Baptist Church 21434 Highway 16 W, Clinton 745-8593 Salem Primitive Baptist Church Gravesville Cutoff Road, Bee Branch Sand Springs Missionary Baptist Church Highway 124 E, Damascus 335-8003 Sardis Freewill Baptist 4141 Highway 124, Gravesville 335-8027 Scotland Baptist Church 278 Postal Lane, Scotland 592-3787 Scotland Church of Christ 297 Scotland-Formosa Road, Scotland Scotland Lighthouse Christian Fellowship Church 1476 Scotland-Formosa Road, Scotland 592-3311 Settlement Baptist Church 10277 Highway 16 E, Shirley 501-215-1595 Shady Grove Baptist Church 5448 Shady Grove Road, Shirley 723-4273 Shady Grove Chapel 4790 Highway 254 E, Dennard Shirley Church of Christ 10509 Highway 16 E, Shirley 723-8101 Shirley Community Church/First United Methodist 784 Matthew Clark Memorial Drive, Shirley 723-4387 South Side Baptist Highway 65 N, Damascus 335-7423 St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 250 Woodlawn Drive, Fairfield Bay 884-3349 St. Jude Catholic Church 3178 Hwy 65 S, Clinton 745-5716 Tabernacle of Praise 159 Boston Fern Road, Shirley 723-8280 The Gathering Ministry Outreach 80746 Highway 16 W, Rupert 745-3883 The Zoo Church 12174 Highway 65 N, Dennard 514-8535 The Power House (non-denominational) 159 Mt. Zion Road, Bee Branch, AR 253-2385 Trace Ridge Bible Church Highway 254 W at Morris Road, Chimes Walnut Grove Church 6940 Highway 95 W, Clinton 745-3445 Zion Hill Missionary Baptist ABA 29129 Highway 16 W, Jerusalem 745-4467

Last Week's Featured Church

Corinth Baptist Church 5158 Holly Mountain Road, Clinton

Pawn • Shooting Sports

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January 26, 2021

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 11

WE GIVE HONOR TO OUR VETERANS THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN OF OUR ARMED FORCES

Thank You!

SPONSORS VETERANS DAY

Bank of the Ozarks City of Clinton City of Damascus

City of Fairfield Bay Crowell Saw & Supply Dan & Debby Prout First Security Bank First Service Bank French Feed Jim Gillam L'Attitude Bistro Leon & Cindy Wilson Lucas Emberton Main Street Florist PEH Supply Regions Bank Roger Hooper Soaring Eagle Camp Town of Shirley The Grillot Family Clinton Drug Stephen and Shayne Daly

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 12

January 26, 2021

12 Months of Gardening

by Jeffry Burgess raised. This is particu-

I know morning temperatures are still downright cold but many days are warming up nicely. As a result, my mind can’t help but turn to thoughts of a lovely spring garden filled with bounty.

If you are new to gardening the whole process can seem a bit overwhelming. My advice is just don’t bite off more than you can chew. Success in a small effort is likely to lead to more effort.

Failure in a big way will lessen the likelihood of persistence. My longtime friend and fellow organic gardener, Lalla Ostergren, had a childlike enthusiasm for gardening that was infectious. She once told me, “I’m a gardener all the way down to ma toes!”

I laughed and said I was looking forward to spring. She responded, “Me too, I’m so excited I could wet my plants.”

I asked, “Are you punning with me?”

Her response was quick, “Yes, just dill with it. But now I’m off to the garden for some peas and quiet.”

I said, “Ok, I’ll seed you later.”

She laughed and replied, “Lettuce be thankful.”

While Lalla had a humorous side she was very serious about gardening and approached it as a year round activity. By this time of year she would have many seedlings growing indoors, like mustard, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, celery, turnip, kale, broccoli, onion, Swiss chard, peas, spinach and lettuce.

She would use the thinnings, roots and all, in her morning raw vegetable juice. Her little backdoor garden, in grow boxes, with lettuce and greens, produced throughout most winters. Her greenhouse often had tomatoes and peppers producing and she would have planted cabbage in her coldframes by now.

Most of us are not as serious as Lalla was but one of many lessons she taught me was starting seeds indoors gets a jump on the season. Sure it’s easier to wait for transplants to become available at stores and nurseries, but varieties are usually limited to the most popular, and often not offered when you want them. Also, there is no way to determine how those seedlings were treated.

We’re they doused in chemical fertilizers? Are they covered with pesticides? Do they harbor parasites and disease? When you plant your own seeds, you have control over how your young plants are

larly important to those of us who support organic gardening methods.

Also, raising plants from seed and then transplanting, widens our choices for what actually is planted in the garden. Inferior plants never make it to the garden to waste space and instead end up in the salad bowl or raw vegetable juice.

And, if you are planning a big garden, using seeds rather than transplants is less expensive.

Taking full advantage of early, and late season, gardening is having the transplants ready to go when weather and soil are ready. And, by holding back a few seedlings, you’ll have replacements immediately available if the first transplants don’t survive.

Seeds already have the blueprint for success within themselves.

They know how and when to sprout. The seedlings know how to grow. The gardener’s role is to provide the means for a plant to realize its full potential. With care and assistance, plants will do more than just survive, they will thrive with vigor and bounty, and richly reward all our efforts.

I like to start my seeds in recycled six or four-packs that have been cleaned and sterilized, although any small containers will do. Just remember that if you use recycled yogurt cups or or cottage cheese containers, poke a few holes in the bottoms. Good drainage is required. Use a sterile germination medium to avoid exposing seedlings to contamination. Some regular potting soils are not fine enough to allow many seeds’ roots to easily penetrate the soil and do not allow oxygen to flow well.

Usually I start early enough that the plants are ready to set out in the garden when the seedlings are needing more space for root development. Occasionally I’ll transplant them into a slightly larger pot for further growth if outdoor conditions are not yet right. This is partic-

ularly true if you start warm weather crops like peppers and tomatoes now, which can not be set out until all danger of frost has passed. As a general rule, most annual vegetables should be sown indoors six weeks before the last average frost. Seed packages often contain specific timing suggestions.

Seeds need to be kept moist until they germinate, so cover loosely with a plastic wrap until they sprout.

Then the soil’s surface should be allowed to dry to prevent the fungus called dampening-off. Watering from below with a saucer or tray can help prevent this.

Lalla always had all her south facing window shelves filled with seedlings by now. Supplemental lighting may be needed to prevent plants from becoming leggy. A few extra cents of electricity is worth it at this crucial stage of development.

And since plants grow towards the light, regularly rotating the plant strengthens the stem and helps keep them straight.

The most critical next step is hardening off. Seedlings are tender and need to be toughened up before being planted in the garden. We do this by gradually decreasing a plant’s temperature, water and light so that it is better able to withstand outdoor conditions. Many gardeners do this by setting plants in a sunny but sheltered location outside for longer and longer periods over about a week.

You can start this process indoors if you can control the temperature where your seedlings are located.

I love growing flow-

ers in the winter. Pansies and violas are two of the best options for our county. I’ve noticed they do best when the cold comes gradually in the autumn. It gives them time to “beef up” their leaves, they become thicker, more protective. So by the time the temperatures drop into the teens, they’re ready for it and recover faster. Preparing tender seedlings, started indoors for the move outdoors, is using the same process at a different time of year.

So when is the best time to transplant to the garden? Lalla used to sniff the air, look at the moon, watch the birds at her feeders, crumble a clod of dirt and stick her fingers down into the soil, then say, “It’ll be time soon.” I don’t know whether she was

pulling my leg or not but I also remember her saying that when coccus and early daffodils were blooming it was “time to plant out”. It changes from year to year based upon Mother Nature’s whims but many suggest early March. I recently saw a daffodil sending up a flower bud so maybe soon.

If the rest of winter continues to be mild and you have a cold frame, there are some plants that could go out now.

Cabbage, carrots, kale and Swiss chard are reported to survive at as low as 15 degrees, cauliflower 10 degrees, collards 5 degrees and parsnips and leeks zero degrees.

Onions and garlics that sprouted out in my garden in December, have been getting bigger ev-

er since.

When it’s time to plant, some suggest doing it in the evening or on a cloudy day. Don’t let the roots dry out in transitioning from indoors to the garden. The less stress on the plant the quicker it revives. Make sure the soil is ready and a trench or series of holes are dug. Have water on hand to wet the soil as the small plants are placed. And if you’re going to do this soon make provisions to protect from frost.

Some say turnips, parsnips, radishes and early peas can be direct sowed in the garden now. We’ll talk more about direct sowing seed in the next gardening column.

Hope to seed you in the garden next month.