The Voice of VBC December 1, 2015 by The Voice of Van Buren County

Of the people,

Home of subscriber Dan Huie

By the people, For the people

TUESDAY, December 1, 2015 / Vol. 1 Issue 8 / 75 cents

JPs pass voluntary tax for new library A voluntary tax for the new Van Buren County Library brought some questions from a justice of the peace at last month's meeting of the Van Buren County Quorum Court. The ordinance to levy the voluntary 1 mill tax on real property to equip and furnish the new library passed by a 7-1 vote on Nov. 19. JP Mary Philips had some pointed questions about the proposal before the vote. "Is there a re-

al need for this tax?" Philips asked, noting that a mandatory 1 mill tax on real property for the library already is in place. "If they don't want to pay it all they got to do is say, 'I don't want to pay it,'" JP James Kirkendoll said. Philips wanted to know what the projected revenue from such a voluntary tax would be and if there was a chance it might become a non-voluntary one. No one had a projection but said a sim-

ilar tax for soil conservation brings in $15,000 to $16,000 annually. Kirkendoll said it would have to go before voters to become a mandatory tax, and "at that time, it probably wouldn't pass." JP Dale James likened the tax to tipping at a restaurant -- figure the percentage then pay it if you want. Philips wondered if this tax request would lead to other agencies making the same request, say-

ing, "There are a lot of things that could use a voluntary tax." Librarian Karla Fultz said the Library Board suggested the voluntary tax rather than requesting a millage increase. She said earlier at the meeting that the old building is still up for sale after the bid they received was not satisfactory. The building is appraised at $195,000, and County Judge Roger Hooper said an acceptable price must be at least 75 percent

of that. Philips voted against the voluntary millage increase, and the ordinance proposal passed 7-1. JP Randy Story was not at the meeting. The new library should be completed around Christmastime, Fultz said. Also at the meeting, the Quorum Court: * Heard that the county's insurance policy premium will increase by $50,000 for 2016. Hooper said he will sign the pa-

pers with Scarberry Insurance in the next few days. * Was told to bring their audit books to the next meeting, after most said they forgot them this time. The JPs will go over the state legislative audit on Dec. 17. * Passed the annual school millage tax, which is set at 36.8 mills for Clinton; 38.6 mills for South Side; 35.5 mills for Shirley; 33.5 mills for Quitman; 32.75 mills for Marshall; and 33.6 mills for Westside.

Mobile home destroyed in fire

Homecoming royalty Mary Considine was crowned Senior High Homecoming queen at Shirley recently. Mary is the daughter of Kenneth Considine and Shelley Wheeler. She was escorted by Benton Berry, the son of Brian and Sandra Berry. The Junior High queen is pictured on Page 12.

A mobile home in the Barrens Community near Clinton was destroyed by fire Sunday, Nov. 22. Forty-one firefighters responded to the fire at the home of Lisa Stout, according to Choctaw Fire Department Chief Lamar Harvey. He said a boy at the home was taken to the hospital in a non-life threatening condition. No further information on his condition was available. The cause of the fire, Harvey said, is undetermined. The fire was reported by Stout around 7:30 a.m. Nov. 22. Trucks from fire departments including Choctaw, Burnt Ridge, Damascus, Fairfield Bay, Bee Branch and Culpepper responded. Some of the tankers stood by at the nearby Johnson Hole to carry water to the scene as needed. This was part of the newly created county Tanker Task Force. The tankers carry 1,000 to 3,000 gal-

A mobile home in the Barrens Community near Clinton was lost in a fire Sunday, Nov. 22. lons of water at a time and refill at designated points. Using alternate water sources eases pressure on fire hydrants.

The departments making up the Tanker Task Force are: Alread, Bee Branch, Botkinburg, Burnt Ridge, Damascus,

Dennard, Choctaw, Culpepper, Fairfield Bay, Highway 110, Gravesville, and Shirley.

--In brief--

It's Christmas in Clinton -- From 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, local merchants will be open for shopping, and cordially invite area residents to drop in for their open houses. Events include flash sales and pictures with Santa at the Clinton Fire Department. There will be prizes, deep discounts, refreshments and more. Sid King and the KHPQ Jambulance will be on the move with a live broadcast from store to store. It's a great opportunity to support your

local merchants and shop local.

Winners - The Voice of Van Buren County congratulates the winners of its November contests. Jo Smith of Clinton won a one-year subscription to The Voice by correctly identifying the location of a photograph in the Where in the County Is This? contest; and Vickie Overbey of Clinton was the winner of a $25 gift certificate from Rose's Country Fabrics for the winning entry in the Word Find puzzle. Their names were drawn from dozens of cor-

rect entries in the contests. The Voice would like to thank everyone who participated. The next round of puzzles starts with this issue, and we have another great prize to win in a new contest. See Page 7 for details. Letters, we need letters -- Attention first-grade teachers in Van Buren County. The Voice is planning to publish Letters to Santa from first-graders throughout the county. Send them to voiceeditor@ artelco.com, mail them to The Voice/ P.O. Box 1396/Clinton, AR 72031 or

bring them by our downtown Clinton office at 260 Griggs St. Please leave the letters just like the kids wrote them. Ballot position draw -- The Van Buren County Election Commission will hold a public meeting for the purpose of drawing names for ballot position for candidates in the 2016 Preferential Primary and Nonpartisan Election. The meeting will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015, at the Van Buren County Courthouse Annex. It is open to the public.

This gingko bilboa tree outside Arkansas Telephone Co. in downtown Clinton shows off its fall colors. The ginkgo is the oldest known species of tree on earth with its fossils dating back 270 million years, according to gingkotree.com. There are only a few of these trees in Van Buren County.

The Voice of Van Buren County

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Don’t cheat yourself out of sleep We don’t sleep enough. When we get busy, and we all are, the one area that we cut back on is sleep. And we pay the price. We wear our bodies out in the process, and our brains. We put our safety at risk and ruin our health, and for what? More TV time? So, if you’re looking for clues to determine your exhaustion level because you are not sleeping, here are a few. 1. You are irritable. Stressed out, snappy, grumpy. A lack of sleep will make you anxious, anxiety will make unable to sleep. It’s a vicious cycle. Sleep is restorative, it is the re-boot button. Your brain needs it to restore and recharge

itself. Without sleep your brain becomes a jumbled mess, which is why you get angry easily, you can’t think your way through situations. Which leads us to clue No. 2: 2. You can’t concentrate. Sleep is when the brain re-balances the chemicals it needs to work properly and to process memories and learning that you have acquired that day. That’s why you become forgetful, you haven’t slept properly. 3. Dry lips. Without proper rest we get dehydrated. Our bodies have been on high-alert for too long and it has had to drain all the water from our bodies to do its’ wakeful duties. So, without water we get dry mouths, cracked lips, we feel tired/rundown, thirsty. 4. You gain weight. When you

are tired, your body sends a signal that you need energy and you need it right now! So you reach for something quick and easy … candy, chips, muffins, cake, etc. This in turn elevates our body’s insulin level, and you’ve heard the old saying, “What goes up must come down.” And it does. With a low blood sugar, your body sends another signal to the brain, we need sugar! So you reach for … (you already know, don’t you?) So you gain weight, and because you have gained weight, you give up trying and eat more of everything. And so the vicious cycle continues yet again. – Ron Henson, RN

December 1, 2015

Skeeter’s Mailbag

Matching funds -- Bobbye Bennett of Modern Woodmen of America presents $2,500 matching funds for Meals On Wheels to Pamala Draeger of Van Buren County Aging Program. Matching funds are from the aging program's annual Cowboy Catfish Supper.

Police Report Stolen vehicle

Acting on an anonymous tip, the Van Buren County sheriff's office recovered a stolen Toyota Highlander outside a home on Highway 110 just off Highway 16 East in Shirley on Nov. 19. The homeowner told a deputy that she and her husband were looking for a motor for their Toyota when her husband's boss told them about the vehicle. They got the Toyota from a residence on Henderson Road in Clinton. Conway Police confirmed the vehicle was reported stolen in Faulkner County, and the Toyota was towed and will be turned over to Conway Police.

Puppy love?

A woman told the Van Buren County sheriff's office that she is being harassed and threatened through Face-

book messages after taking her puppy away from a child at a party. The Clinton woman told a deputy she and her stepson were at a child's party at Clinton City Park when one of the children took the puppy and began to walk away with it. She said she calmly took the puppy away from the child to keep it from getting hurt, but the mother of the child became angry. The deputy obtained a phone numbher for a woman who is in contact with the one allegedly making threats. The woman said she did not know how to contact the other woman, but would tell her via Facebook that if the threats don't stop she could face charges. The alleged threats occurred on Nov. 17.

Charge filed

A 35-year-old Clinton woman has

188 Potts Rd., Shirley, AR. 188 Potts Rd., Shirley, AR. Well-maintained mfg. home on just under an acre. Three bedrooms, one bath, large sunroom, open living area. Detached 2-car garage and a 9x20 storage barn. Nice paved circular drive. Only 5 minutes to Greers Ferry Lake!!!!

$50,500.00

MLS# 15033610

Highway 65 North, Clinton, AR. Commercial Acreage! Over 3 acres that borders Archey Creek and fronts US Highway 65. Easily accessible, this property would be an excellent location for a riverside restaurant or motel. Centrally located between Little Rock and Branson, MO. Great visibility!!! The possibilities are endless!!!

$213,365.00

MLS# 15033159

Ask about our collection of affordable homes. We have several homes between $45K-75K that we’d love to show you. Cheaper than renting! Let us help you get pre-qualified and get you moved into a place you can call your own. Stop paying someone else’s mortgage! REDUCED! 4/1.5 on the edge of town. New carpet, decking & more. Ready for you to move in! Lots of bedrooms, dedicated dining room, spacious yard.

$125,000.00

MLS# 15021023

been charged with misdemeanor resisting arrest after scuffling with police, according to a report. On a request by a parole officer, Clinton Police were trying to take Darci Brawner into custody when she refused to submit to being handcuffed and began to physically pull, push and hold onto objects, according to an affidavit from the city prosecutor's office. Once handcuffed, Brawner kicked and struck a police officer who was trying to place her into a police car, the report states. The officer used his taser device on Brawner, the report states. Once at the Van Buren County Detention Center, Brawner again became combative and tripped a detention officer, causing the officer to fall, the report states.

Shop Local this Holiday Season

In need of homes for the holiday -- This gorgeous young girl is called Sancy. She still has some growing to do, and could use more attention and training. What a beautiful addition she would make for a family. Meet Sancy at the Van Buren County Animal Control facility on Tester Street, just off Highway 65 in Clinton.

Thomas is a big, lazy tom cat. He has been at the shelter for awhile now and sure could use a good home. Call 745-2121 for more information about adopting Thomas, Sancy or another pet. (Photos by Pam Blackard)

The VOICE of Van Buren County

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Terry O’Connor - voiceads@artelco.com Display and Classified advertising deadline: 4 p.m. Thursdays Subscriptions or circulation Call Customer Service (501) 745-8040 Subscription rates: $25 per year in Van Buren County $35 per year outside of county To submit news: thevoice@artelco.com Deadline to submit news items: 4 p.m. Thursdays The VOICE of Van Buren County is published weekly by VBC Communications LLC at 260 Griggs Street, Clinton, AR 72031. Periodical Postage is pending 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 is available at: • Walmart Neighborhood Market, Damascus, outside • Snappy's, Bee Branch, outside • CashSavers, Clinton, outside • First Service Bank, Shirley, outside • The Austin Store, Austin • Lowder's General Store, Scotland • Caldwell Country Store, Bee Branch • Elite Auto Body Shop, Choctaw • PEH Supply, Choctaw • The Assessor's Office, Clinton • June's Cafe, Clinton • Chief's Little Steakhouse, Clinton • The Flash Market Citgo, Clinton • The Voice office, Clinton • Jack's, Fairfield Bay • Dennard Country Store, Dennard • Smith's Citgo, Leslie

Hey Skeeter, You are not going to believe what my human, Mary Jean, bought me. A Pet Stroller! Can you believe that? She said it was so we could go for a walk. A WALK? Dogs go for a walk! I’m a CAT! Cats play! I really tried to look interested as she explained that walking would be good for her and when I am in the stroller I could keep her company and be safe. She smiled when I let her put me the stroller and showed me that I could see through the mesh. I let her push me around the house and she keep saying, “Oh, you’re so good Lefty.” I was already looking for an escape route. After I found it, I just laid down and purred. Whoever designed the pet stroller surely did not own a cat. Where the handle connects to the stroller, there is a loose space between the straps. All you have to do is stick your nose in that space, shake your head and lift up. The snaps move closer, the space gets bigger. Just push on through. We start our walk and when we reach the pavement, I make my escape. Poor Mary Jean, “Oh! Lefty, why did you do that?” I pause and look back, she looked so sad, but “I’m a CAT!” Cats play. We don’t go for walks! I give her my “I showed you look” and head to the house. The next day, she still had her sad look, so I jumped in the stroller, laid down and pretended to nap. She said, “Oh! Lefty, I guess it does make a good place to take a nap.” I started purring. If taking a few naps in the pet stroller makes her happy, well, I can handle that. Until next time, Lefty

GOT NEWS? EMAIL US! voiceeditor@artelco.com

The Voice of Van Buren County

December 1, 2015

The Voice is Listening Brave youngster inspires volunteer

By Shay Belonie

This year will be the 13th year I have volunteered with Angel Tree. Often I look back and think of all the lives that have connected to mine because of this amazing program. I have many stories that motivate and renew my spirit in this season, but one story stands out over all of them. In 2001, I was asked to be Santa for a young boy. I have not asked his family for permission to use their names, but if they read this, I hope they recognize themselves and are honored by this article. Their young boy was the sweetest and most angelic definition of the Christmas spirit. As I sat with him, he asked for stuff for his family. More than anything, he wanted them to have everything they wanted for Christmas. I left that house feeling overwhelmed with emotions and uplifted by this wonderful child. This boy had cancer and a week before Christmas he went into Children’s Hospital. My wife, I and a really great friend gathered the presents that were donated to him and took them to him in the hospital. We wanted him to have a Christmas and to see that his wishes were answered. This beautiful child died on Christmas Eve. On the following year, I was approached to volunteer for the Angel Tree. I could not think of a better way to honor this child’s memory. It is amazing how only seeing this child a couple of

times had such an impact on my life. His spirit of giving will follow me each and every Christmas. To be sure of it, my daughter Victoria was late a week of her due date. She was born on Christmas eve 2002. Have a Merry Christmas full of the spirit of giving. Don’t forget to donate to the local programs, like our Angel Tree program If you can’t donate, get involved. Thank you, Van Buren County for all you do.

The Syrian refugee crisis

By David Cook

Last month the country watched in horror as the city of Paris, France, was attacked by unknown assailants. The wave of attacks across the city claimed the lives of 129 people and soon after the terrorist group ISIS claimed responsibility. As I watched the news roll in my mind I was brought back to that historic day September 11, 2001, when we experienced an attack on our own soil. The fallout from this tragedy led many people across the globe to be fearful of the onslaught of Syrian refugees who have been misplaced by their own crisis at home. The Syrian refugee crisis is now being viewed not as a humanitarian crisis but as a tangible threat to homeland security. In the wake of the Paris attacks Gov. Asa Hutchinson released a statement: As governor, I oppose any facility or installation in Arkansas being used as a Syrian refugee center.

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Policy: The Voice welcomes your views and opinions. Letters and articles are published at the editor’s discretion. Send your letters to voiceeditor@artelco.com.

Many of the Syrian refugees are fleeing violence in their own country but Europe, Asia or Africa are logically the best places for resettlement or for temporary asylum. Syria is a war-torn country and the United States will support our European friends in fighting ISIL in Syria and elsewhere; however, this is not the right strategy for the United States to become a permanent place of relocation. Again, I will oppose Arkansas being used as such a relocation center. The hardships facing these refugees and their families are beyond most of our understanding, and my thoughts and prayers are with them, but I will not support a policy that is not the best solution and that poses risk to Arkansans. Some Van Buren County residents have taken to social media sites to voice their opinion about the current crisis. The barrage of comments range from hate to fear to a thread of compassion. I sympathize with the fear that ISIS could possibly use the refugee crisis as a vehicle to promote their agenda and increase their impact across the globe. I am somewhat taken aback as to how this so quickly has shifted from a humanitarian crisis to a political debate on U.S. foreign policy. The governor has joined others in his resistance of the Obama administration's efforts to provide safe haven for refugees who are fleeing horrible conditions at home to find a place of refuge and safety. Much of my objection to the gov-

ernor's remarks does not stem from its content but from the trickle down responses it has inspired from our neighbors and friends. It appears that we all too soon have forgotten several key ingredients that comprise the nation that we love so dearly. Standing proud in the harbor of New York is a robed lady proclaiming liberty to all who see her. Inscribed on this symbol of American freedom is the quote by Emma Lazarus “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” We should not forget that we are a country that was established and sustained by immigrants. A quick search on Ancestry.com will reveal that within the lineage of the reader is an immigrant who fled by boat to arrive in a land promising freedom and liberty. For people of faith the humanitarian crisis must reach deeper into our own personal theology. Many of my Bible-believing friends have responded in a way that tends to trouble me. We have neglected that the text is comprised of over 2,000 references to the ways in which we would treat and welcome the poor and oppressed. All too often it seems we are prepared to legislate morality and ethics when we can fit it into our own political agendas. To paraphrase the gospels we have swallowed camels while straining out gnats. The text has increased references to how we are to treat the sojourner who journeys amongst us,

the poor who sits outside our gates, and the widow and orphans. It would appear that the ways in which we respond to those in need will be the standard in which we are accepted before our God. The Bible makes no qualms about referring to us as sojourners, poor, in need, and afflicted. It is not a consistent practice to dust off our Bible when it appears to align with our political agendas. The text is meant to inform all aspects of our lives. While I will confess my application of the text is not always consistent I tend to tire when politicians and elected officials apply it to legislation only when it will appeal to their specific voting bases. I would charge those with a faith background to follow the example of the apostle Paul and utilize this moment in history as a time to weep for those who are weeping and suffering. The fear and hatred that this has inspired is the real tragedy of these recent events. The Muslim face has been cast into a new breed of stereotype. It is not all aspects of the Islamic faith that spread the doctrine that those associating with ISIS adhere to. One post that caught my eye last week suggested that we ought to load up and bomb every Muslim-believing country. This approach has no regard for the innocence of life that would be lost in such an air raid attack. U.S. foreign policy should not be based on fear but on sound judgment and regard for those who

may not be associated with known terror cells. Any U.S. military response should be carefully considered. I certainly understand that the terror groups take no consideration for the lives of the innocent, but we are a country that is better than that. This is not the time to further alienate ourselves from our neighbors who may or may not think like we do. As Syrian refugees continue to span across the globe we must realize that the United States and the current administration has a long-standing vetting process for allowing refugees of any kind into our country. Since the attacks on our soil in 2001, nearly 14,000 refugees have made their way into our homeland. Of those none of them have ever been accused of nor found guilty of any violent crimes. While this does not mean an attack on our soil is outside the realm of possibility, as American citizens we have a moral obligation to respond to humanitarian crisis with open arms and not neglect the opportunity to do good. I do not pretend to have all the answers as to how we should respond to such situations nor am I a policy expert. But I am saddened by the spirit that I see present in so many that have drawn unsubstantiated conclusions. I continue to struggle with a personal conclusion as to what I think or believe about this important issue that we are facing. I invite you to do the same.

Counter kitty Mister Scott relaxes on a bathroom counter. He was adopted two years ago by Tina and Warren Johnson of Clinton. To share your cute pet photos, e-mail voiceeditor@artelco.com.

Calendar

50 years of service in Clinton. Have lunch with Miss Betty and the rest of the crew from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 3. Faye’s Diamond Mine will host the Fancy Color Diamond Trunk Show Dec. 3-Dec. 6. Explore this

exclusive collection of rare and magnificent colored diamonds of all shapes and sizes. While you’re there, enter to win a diamond. For more information visit fayesdiamondmine.wordpress.com.

Through Dec. 12, the Van Buren County Library will be accepting canned goods in lieu of fines. Ingram’s Tire is hosting an open house to celebrate

Advertise with The Voice of Van Buren County. Call Terry at 745-8040 for more information.

The Voice of Van Buren County

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Obituaries William Miller Jr.

William Lykergus Miller Jr., 69, of Fairfield Bay passed away November 26, 2015, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born May 1, 1946, in Little Rock to William L. Miller Sr. and Grace Miller. William loved to play tennis and go flying. He also enjoyed traveling. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Laura Grace and husband Brian Shirley of Flower Mound, Texas, and grandchildren Mason Christopher Shirley and Austin William Shirley. William was preceded in death by his wife Dawn Miller and his parents. The family will hold a private service at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Clinton Funeral Service. To sign William's Book of Memories, visit www. clintonfuneralservice. com.

James Fisher

James Franklin Fisher, 87, of Fairfield Bay passed away Thursday, November 26, 2015, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Born February 15, 1928, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to the late Mryon and Louise L. Erdmann Fisher, James worked at his own business providing valuation for clients. James loved golfing, watching Fox News and was an outspoken Republican. James was also a Culvert University Alumni. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Linda Fisher; one brother, Robert Fisher; several nieces and nephews; and long-time companion and friend Maria Quillen. Arrangements by Clinton Funeral Service.

James Sexson

James Conway Sexson, 83, of Fairfield Bay, passed away November 24, 2015. He was born in Moorefield, Arkansas, on September 17, 1932, to Grover Cleveland and Rosie Slaydon Sexson. James was a member of the Eglantine Church of Christ and led the singing of many congregations. James earned a Bachelor's Degree from Harding University and a Master's Degree from the University of Arkansas. Left to cherish

James' memory are his wife of 58 years, Doris Sexson; daughters Kimberly Shawn Jacka and Peggy Sue Fulcher Poole; grandchildren Louis Anthony York, Martin James Sullivan, Jonathan Poole and Caleb Poole; great-granddaughter Layla Marie York; and many nieces, nephews and other family and friends. James was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Buford Sexson, Grover Sexson, Stella Byrum, Lou Pruden and grandson Christopher Todd York. Services will be Saturday, December 12, 2015, at 11 a.m. at the Eglantine Church of Christ with Brother John Carrey officiating. There will be a private burial at Eglantine Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted Clinton Funeral Service. To sign James's Book of Memories, visit www. clintonfuneralservice. com.

Bill Patterson Billie "Bill" Joe Patterson, 84, of Clinton, passed away November 23, 2015. He was born February 4, 1931, in Quitman, Arkansas, to John Robert and Wilma Ward Patterson. Bill attended Culpepper Community Church and enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, storytelling and gardening. Left to cherish his memory are children Elaine Curd of Dennard, Vickie Hawkins of Perryville, Debbie (Darrell) Johnson of Batesville, Danny (Joyce) Patterson of Clinton and John (Teresa) Patterson of Newark; brothers Bob Patterson of Clinton and James Patterson of Marion, Arkansas, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other family and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of over 50 years, Phyllis Rowena Stevens Patterson, and siblings Jean Cox and Olen Patterson. Services were 2 p.m. Sunday, November 29, 2015 at Culpepper Community Church with Brother Danny Patterson officiating. Arrangements entrust-

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ed to Clinton Funeral Service. To sign Bill's Book of Memories, www.clintonfuneralservice.com.

Donald Coats

Donald Wayne Coats, 39, of Cleveland, passed away November 22, 2015. He was born on a sunny day, April 24, 1976, in Conway, Arkansas, to Russell Wayne Coats and Tana O'Neal. He was a beautiful little boy at 2 lb. 9 oz. and lively as could be. He grew up in the Cleveland and Scotland area. He attended school in Scotland and college in Morrilton. Donald attended the Assembly of God Church and enjoyed fishing and working on electronics. Donnie worked as a jack-of-all-trades -- saw mill, Mobley Concrete, Koonce Electric, Wards Electric, Memphis Electric and as a roofer. He spent a portion of his life as a minister and he drifted from that and struggled, but he could still quote the Bible. He loved the Lord, everyone that he met, and he never met a stranger. He hugged everyone and always told them that he loved them and he meant it. He found peace at the end of his journey in his home. A precious, loving one has gone. His voice we loved, and is still in our home and hearts and always will be. A place is vacant in our home that never can be filled. He is with God, his body may be here, but his soul is safe in Heaven. Left to cherish his memory are his father Russell Coats, mother Tana O'Neal, daughter Destiny Raye Mahan of Centerville, son Christopher Austin Greenfield of Danville, and brother Christopher Russell Coats of Cleveland. Donald is also survived by grandparents Jerry and Ruth O'Neal; niece Krystin Coats and many other relatives and friends. Graveside services were 11 a.m. Monday, November 30, 2015, at Old Liberty Cemetery in Cleveland with Sister Sheila Gardner officiating. Arrangements entrusted Clinton Funeral Service. To sign Donald's book of memories, go to www.clintonfuneralservice.com.

December 1, 2015

Quentin Crowell

Quentin James Crowell, 77, of Clinton, passed away November 22, 2015. He was born February 9, 1938, in Formosa, Arkansas, to Havus and Thelma Honeycutt Crowell. Quentin served seven years in the National Guard. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and playing country and gospel songs on his guitars. Quentin was known as a very selfless person who would give you whatever he could, even his last dollar or the shirt off of his back, and he took care of his parents until both of them passed away. Quentin is survived by his brothers Kennith and wife Pat Crowell, and Charles and wife Barbara Crowell, all of Clinton; three nieces and three nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Services were 10 a.m. Friday, November 27, at Clinton Funeral Service Chapel. Arrangements entrusted to Clinton Funeral Service. To sign Quentin's Book of Memories, visit www. clintonfuneralservice. com.

Chester Cameron

Chester Wayne Cameron, 71, of Clinton, passed away November 22, 2015. He was born July 15, 1944, in Heber Springs, Arkansas, to Chester Calvin and Ora Marie Mayfield Cameron. He was very active in the Clinton Church of Christ and the Senior Center in Clinton. Wayne is survived by his sisters, Ora Jane Lacy of Concord and Lillian Elliott of Heber Springs; brothers Jimmy Ray Cameron of Hot Springs and Richard Simon Merrill of Hot Springs, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral service was 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2015, at Clinton Church of Christ with Brother Stan Smith and Brother J.E. Elliott officiating. Burial was in Chastain Chapel Cemetery in Tumbling Shoals, Arkansas. Arrangements entrusted to Clinton Funeral Service. To sign Wayne's Book of Memories, please go to www.clintonfuneralservice.com.

Hazel King

Hazel Mae King, 93, of Ventura, California, passed away November 21, 2015. She was born November 11, 1922, in Wooster, Arkansas, to Daniel Webster and Lena England James. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Danny King and Van King, both of Clinton, Arkansas, and Linda and husband Harry Kutzbach of Simi Valley, California. She is also survived by daughter-inlaw Edwina King of Ventura, California; siblings Arthur and wife Lorene James of Clinton, Willodene Bradford of Shirley, and numerous grandchildren and nieces, nephews, and other family and friends. Hazel was preceded in death by her husband, John Calvin King, and her parents. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 2, 2015, at Eglantine Cemetery with Brother Gary James officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Clinton Funeral Service. To sign Hazel's Book of Memories, please go to www. clintonfuneralservice. com.

Joe Nicholson

Joe Earl Nicholson, 80, of Clinton, Arkansas, passed away Friday, November 13, 2015. He was born July 9, 1935, on Culpepper Mountain in Clinton to Theodore and Ora (Hillis) Nicholson. Joe moved to Fairfield, California, with his family at the age of 17, and graduated from Armijo High School, a proud member of the FFA. Upon graduation he joined the Navy as an electrician during the Korean War. When he returned home he joined the carpenters union, Local 180, with 50 years of service and 12 years as an executive board member. He played a key role in helping build the majority of Fairfield, California, while doing construction as a union member. Joe was involved with Tolenas Riders Association, 4- H and enjoyed teaching all kids anything to do with woodworking, leather working, farming, horses and gardening. He firmly believed in a honest days work for a hon-

est days wage, and that the more skills they acquired, the more successful they would become. Joe was also known as a great story teller and practical joker. Joe moved back to Clinton, his home town, when he retired. He loved riding his tractors, gardening, going to rodeos, fishing and most of all attending his grandchildren and great-grandchildren's sporting events. Joe is survived by his wife of 13 years, Joyce; daughters, Renee Tobin and Shawn, Wendy Pelletier and J.P., Evelyn Allen, son Doyne Allen and Cynthia, grandchildren, Dave Tobin jr and Rachel, Joseph Tobin, Wesley Smith, Korey Smith, TeeJay Pelletier, and Jessica Ultes, and eight greatgrandchildren; sisters, Ruby and Lyle Graff and Laverta and Roy Broadley, numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Kimberly Beath Nicholson, and brother Robert Nicholson. Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer Association or FFA at your local high school. Pallbearers: Renee Tobin, David Tobin, Jr., Joseph Tobin, Wendy Pelletier, J.P. Pelletier, and Tee Jay Pelletier. Visitation and funeral services were Friday, November 20, 2015, at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was in Culpepper Cemetery with U.S. Navy Military Honors. Arrangements under the direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Clinton, Arkansas. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton

Dorse Pruitt

Dorse Pruitt, age 85, of Greenbrier passed away on Wednesday, November 25, 2015. Dorse was born October 8, 1930, in Dabney, Arkansas, a son of the late George Washington Pruitt and Slena Ann Bridges. Dorse was a lifelong resident of Conway County. He was of the Baptist Faith and long-time member of the Conway County Mounted Patrol. He retired from Coca Cola Co. He is survived Obituaries, page 5

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The Voice of Van Buren County

December 1, 2015

Neighbors Tom Hogan

Dennard

Most of us know someone who serves this community as a volunteer. We call them firefighters, which they are, but they are so much more. It’s humbling to realize that while we relax quietly these good people are preparing to be there when someone has a very bad day. Here’s a chance to give back in a small way. Our own Dennard Volunteer Fire Department needs a refrigerator. The current one, generously donated, has finally passed on. If you have one that you could part with, a new calling as a volunteer refrigerator would mean a great deal to our community. You can contact Debra Huie at 745-8875 to make it happen. Speaking of volunteers and giving back, training meetings are held every first Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.; business meetings are every third Tuesday at the same time. These dedicated men and women would love to welcome anyone who might think they are ready to answer the call. If it matters to you, it matters to Dennard. Call me at 592-2930

Debby Prout

Highway 110

Well, it has been quite a cold snap that has come up here on Highway 110. We had over 6.25 inches of rain and hard winds. Now I believe that winter has arrived! We had 23 degrees one morning, which I believe constitutes a hard freeze. Please join me in wishing W.C. and Grace West a wonderful Happy Anniversary! They have been married 71 years as of Nov. 18 and celebrated with a dinner at their home with family. I have been seeing tons of posts on Facebook with trophy bucks and does being shot. Congrats to all that have had success! Happy Birthday wishes to Barbara Lasater! She turned 98

on Nov. 28. There was a birthday celebration held for her at the Highway 110 Volunteer Fire Department on Saturday, the 21st, where many family and friends came and shared cake, coffee and lots and lots of stories. Thanks to the Highway 110 community for making this a memorable event for Barbara. Happy Birthday to Anne Holley as she celebrates her 80th birthday on Nov. 24. Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Be sure and remember to follow the basics, stay home if you’re sick, disinfect with bleach and water or Lysol wipes. Please be sure and check on the elderly with these cold winds blowing, we need to be sure they are warm and safe. Don’t forget to Thank God for all he has given us, especially his Son. As we celebrate our Thanksgiving holiday with family, friends and food, let’s remember to keep our military personnel in our prayers and give thanks for their service during this Thanksgiving season. Well, that’s all the news for this week. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and don’t overeat on turkey and pie! Be sure and send me more news on family visiting, or where you ventured off to for the holiday. Until then, stay safe, warm and dry! See you next week! Any news can be sent to DProut@artelco.com

Patsy Ward

Formosa

Thanksgiving guests of Johnny and Joyce James were their son, Chad and Destiny James and children Jaxtyn and Zaylee of Sheridan. Johnny’s brother, Gary and Nancy James from Spiro, Oklahoma, and his sister, Geraldine and Steve Crow of Morrilton. Johnny got a few days off work for the holiday. Visiting Margie Pounds for Thanksgiving were her daughters, Vicky Sullins of Kaufman, Texas, and Deborah Harrison of Jonesboro; granddaughters Jaime Cal-

lahan of Truman, Arkansas, Jan Hodge and children of Hamburg, Arkansas, Ginger and Pete Torres and son from Murphy, Texas, and April Washburn and children of Terrell, Texas. Margie had a total of 15 people for Thanksgiving dinner. Visiting Deniece and Ronnie Sikes over Thanksgiving was his mother, Barbara Lasater. I had Thanksgiving dinner with my niece, Susan and Justin Dees at Choctaw. We had a wonderful meal and a good visit. I got to play with my great-niece, Ashtyn. She painted a picture of me. I think it is a masterpiece! I just enjoyed the day visiting with family and friends. I don’t have much to report this week, maybe will have more later. Hope every one had a good day. Until next week, God bless.

Jeff Burgess

Crabtree

Most reports had people enjoying family and friends during Thanksgiving although some said they had difficulty saying no to gluttony. My neighbor Brad Attitudes was fussing about missing his shot at a big buck one of the rainy days. Fortunately modern gun season is open until December 6 and archery until February 29. So there is still opportunity. Interestingly Van Buren County is in 5 different deer zones. Check the regs for the specifics. It seems that out this way the county is a bit wilder. Wildlife sightings are common and for me have included fox, bobcat, skunk, beaver, bear, coyote, armadillo, possum, weasel, wolf, timber rattler and a mountain lion snarl, to name a few. Recently driving out from Clinton on 16 West, nearing the top of The Pinnacle I spotted a 2 foot tall barred owl standing in my lane. It was looking up hill away from me and as I approached it swiveled it's incredible eyes and head around to look at me. It didn't fly and I drove off the road to

miss it. As I marveled at what had happened, no more than 100 yards up the road a deer comes running out of the woods and runs right into the side of my truck. It was a doe which after a head shake proceeded on its way. What was all that about? If you have an incredible wildlife story that happened in the greater Crabtree and 16 West community, call Jeff Burgess, 7451249.

Mary Jean Hall Scotland

Jack Frost put in his first appearance at my house Friday morning, Nov 20. It’s just the beginning. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends. We have so much to be thankful for. Sometimes I forget and think about my problems instead of being thankful for what I have. The First Saturday Breakfast will be Dec. 5 starting at 8 a.m. at Scotland school cafeteria. The monthly pool tournament will also be Dec. 5 at the Scotland Senior Center. I have forgot the time and lost the paper I had it written down on. You must be 20 years or older and there is a sign-up fee. For more information, please call the Scotland Senior Center at 5923377. You can have breakfast and then go play in the pool tournament. The annual Christmas Potluck at the Scotland School Cafeteria held by the Scotland Community Corp. will be Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m. But I will have to miss it as I have surgery on my left shoulder Dec. 2. Recovery time will depend on what repairs they have to do on the shoulder. Left shoulder/arm will be in a sling and a brace on my right hand. Not good! Donny Coats passed away Nov 22, 2015. Graveside Memorial Services were Monday, Nov. 30, 2015 at Old Liberty Cemetery. Remember, I know more about the past then I do the present, so please e-mail me some news: mjhallartelco.com or phone me at: 592-3716 (I have an answering machine) with the news. One Hundred Years Ago: Herbert Dunsworth, John Griggs, and Goul Gross bought Prof. Harvey Williams’ Ice Cream Parlor and Barber Shop.

Page 5 From Page 4 by his son: Jimmy Pruitt and wife Donna of Wooster; daughter Regina McCoy of Morrilton; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were Saturday, November 28, at Bob Neal and Sons Funeral Home Chapel. Private interment was in Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Alread. Online guestbook go to w w w. b o b n e a l a n d sons.com.

great-grandchildren coming in the spring. She will be missed by many neighbors, friends and relatives including her other son, Herb Baker and special grandson, Payton Deckard. Visitation was Sunday, November 29, 2015. The funeral service was 10 a.m. Monday at Rupert Baptist Church in Rupert, Arkansas, with interment following at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton, Arkansas. For online guest book, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/ clinton

Ruth Nelson

Ruth Alma Nelson entered into the Joys of Heaven Friday, November 27, 2015. She was born June 3, 1921, to Jesse Coleman and Nicie Malinda (Ragland) Hefner. She married Norman Nelson on August 5, 1939. She was widowed April 18, 1976, and lived independently until the time of her passing. She was known for wearing a hat, making great rolls and chocolate cake, and her spunk and agility. She leaves a legacy of loving her Lord, her family, and friends, and her faithfulness to church. She worked for many years in the Alread School lunchroom where she became "Grandma" to many. She was preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings, her husband, and her son, Larry Nelson and daughter-in-law, Naomi Ruth Nelson. She is survived by two daughters, Alma LaDoyne (Wayland) Emerson and Sharon Kay Adams, eight grandchildren, Jesse "Jay" (Deana) Emerson Jr., Teresa (Jim) Duncan, DeOnna (Calvin) Tichy, Lisa Nelson, Lana Nelson, Rachel (Jim) Hooker, Laura Ruth (Joel) Gambrell and Chad (Julie) Davis. She alsi is survived by 10 great-grandchildren, Shalisha (Travis) Carroll, Caleb (Shannon) Tichy, Cayla (Justin) Harrison, Clarke Tichy, Jayla Emerson, Jasper Hooker, Coleman Davis, Jackson Davis, Cassidy Davis and Josephine Davis; three great-great-grandchildren: Sharaya Carroll, Mallorie Carroll, and Mia Tichy. She was excited about twin

Emma Collums

Emma Sue Collums, 79, of Bee Branch passed away November 28, 2015, in Clinton, Arkansas. She was born January 28, 1936, in Mount Vernon, Arkansas, to William Herman and Beulah (Terry) Garrett. Sue was a 1954 graduate of South Side High School, feared on the basketball court, a skilled bowler with several trophies and an avid fan of South Side Hornet athletics. She is survived by her sons, Monte Lee Collums (Maureen Ragsdale) and Sammy Lowell Collums (Jessica; three grandchildren, Tasha Griffin, Bailey Collums and Garrett Collums; four great-grandchildren, Zoey Griffin, Pierce Griffin, Lily Collums, Anastasia McLellan; one brother, Jerry Garrett (Ruth); and many other friends and family. She was preceded in death by her parent; her brothers, Ben Garrett, Clois Garrett, Hallous Garrett, G.W. Garrett, Hassell Garrett, Doug Garrett, Ed Garrett, Bill Garrett; and her sisters, Erva Lee Garrett and Erma Lee Garrett. Visitation was Monday, November 30, 2015 The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 1, 2015, and Roller-McNutt Funeral Home with interment following at Hardin Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton, Arkansas. For online guest book, www.rollerfuneral homes.com/ clinton.

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 6

December 1, 2015

The Scotland Post Office was in the N.A. Simpson Store in the 1920’s. Simpson was the postmaster.

The Scotland Post Office in 1966.

Communities dwindled as post offices closed By Mary Jean Hall Where have all of our communities gone? Small communities sprang up throughout Van Buren County as it grew in the 1800’s. These communities usually consisted of a church, a school, and a general store. Upon submitting an application and having it approved a post office would be established thus giving the community an official name. Better roads meant better transportation and better communication. Slowly the small communities started to dwindle away, post offices were discontinued, schools consolidated, the Depression came and then World War II. People moved away and now nothing is left of the some of these communities except a cemetery. Unfortunately even some of the cemeteries have disappeared because underbrush, tress, and lack of care. Have you ever thought of how many post offices have been in Van Buren County? How many of these do you recall? Or heard about? Alread was established in 1882 and discontinued in 1911. The mail went to Scotland. It was named for Thomas B. Alread. Archey was established in 1886 and discontinued in 1945. The mail went to Botkinburg. Argo was established in1911 and discontinued in 1912. The mail went to Clinton. Bee Branch was established in 1860. It is still there. Bloomington was established in 1840 and discontinued in 1842. Botkinburg was established in 1920 and discontinued in 1966. It was named for Olive Bell Botkin. Cap was established in 1897 and discontinued in 1897. Chalk was established in 1888 and discontinued in 1901. The mail went to Eglantine. Chimes was estab-

lished in 1914 and discontinued in 1973. Choctaw was established in 1880. It is still there. Claude was established in 1889 and discontinued in 1908. The mail went to Cleveland. Clinton was established in 1833. It is still there. Copeland was established in 1882 and discontinued in 1955. The mail went to Clinton. It was named for Joab Copeland. Crabtree was established in 1904 and discontinued in 1955. It changed from Mountain in 1904. The mail went to Clinton. Culpepper was established in 1896 and discontinued in 1914. The mail went to Clinton. Cumfort was established in 1857 and discontinued in 1866. Dabney was established in 1897 and discontinued in 1955. The mail went to Morrilton. Dardenville was established in 1872 and discontinued in 1873. It was named for John W. Darden. Debie was established in 1895 and discontinued in 1910. It became part of Searcy County in 1901. Dennard was established in 1886. It is still there. Diamond was established in 1890 and discontinued in 1910. It became part of Pope County after 1906. Edge was established in 1883 and discontinued in 1909. The mail went to Scotland. Eglantine was established in 1866 and discontinued in 1913. The mail went to Settlement. Elba was established in 1908 and discontinued in 1954. It was changed from Sullin in 1908. The mail went to Clinton. Ella was established in 1892 and discontinued in 1926. It became part of Pope County 1895. The mail went to Una. Fairbanks was established in 1905 and discontinued in 1920. The mail went to Bee Branch. Formosa was es-

tablished in 1892 and discontinued in 1968. The mail went to Clinton. Friehl was established in 1916 and discontinued in 1923. The mail went to Shirley. Gladys was established in 1904 and discontinued in 1924. The mail went to Clinton. Goff was established in1880 and discontinued in 1881 when it was changed to Waco. It was named for William F. Goff. Greasy Valley was established in 1877 and discontinued in 1879. Gridley was established in 1902 and discontinued in 1918. The mail went to Scotland. Gulf was established in 1906 and discontinued in 1907. The mail went to Scotland. Hanks was established in 1886 and was discontinued in 1894. The mail went to Rupert. It was named for Matthew E. Hanks. Harman’s Gap was established in 1880 and was discontinued in 1883. It changed from Red River in 1880. It was named for John W. Harman. Heber was established in 1881 and discontinued in 1910. It became part of Cleburne County in 1883. Hogan was established in 1901 and discontinued in 1911. The mail went to Gladys. Jones was established in 1907 and discontinued in 1908. It was named for Thomas H. Jones. Kinderhook was established in 1837 and discontinued in 1894. It became part of Cleburne County in 1883. The mail went to Shiloh. Koch Ridge was established in 1916 and discontinued in 1937. The mail went to Crabtree. It was named for Caroline F. Koch. Kubeck was established in 1915 and discontinued in 1916. The mail went to Lexington. Lamp was established in 1891 and dis-

continued in 1907. The mail went to Bee Branch. Latham was established in 1888 and was discontinued in 1918. The mail went to Scotland. Lexington was established in 1887 and discontinued in 1920. It became part of Stone County after 1899. The mail went to Shelley. Liberty Springs was established in 1855 and discontinued in 1890. The mail went to Edge. Meadows was established in 1851 and discontinued in 1852. Middle Settlement was established in 1878 and discontinued in 1888. The mail went to Clinton. Middletown was established in 1843 and discontinued in 1866. Miller’s Point was established in 1860 and discontinued in 1866. It was named for Christopher Miller. Morganton was established in 1866 and discontinued in 1974 Mountain was established in 1901 and discontinued in 1904 when it was changed to Crabtree. Murillo was established in 1886 and discontinued in 1931. It became part of Searcy County in 1908. It became part of Van Buren County in 1921. The mail went to Woolum. Oak Flat was established in 1873 and discontinued in 1926. The mail went to Dennard. Okay was established in 1892 and discontinued in 1900. The mail went to Sang. Oran was established in 1905 and discontinued in 1905. Phlox was established in 1907 and discontinued in 1914. The mail went to Dabney. Plant was established in 1895 and discontinued in 1954. The mail went to Botkinburg. Puran was established in 1861 and discontinued 1866. Quitman was es-

tablished in 1848. It became part of Cleburne County in 1883. Red River was established in 1879 and discontinued in 1880 when it was changed to Harman’s Gap. Retreat was established in 1902 and discontinued in 1914. The mail went to Rocky Hill. Rex was established in 1898 and discontinued in 1933. The mail went to Copeland. Rip was established in 1915 and was discontinued in unknown. Rocky Hill was established in 1913 and discontinued in 1941. The mail went to Dennard. Roundpoint was established in 1872 and discontinued in 1874. Rumley was established in 1907 and discontinued in 1966. It became part of Searcy County in 1910. It was named for Henry N. Rumley. Rupert was established in 1893 and was discontinued in 1955. The mail went to Clinton. Rurnley was established in 1907 and was discontinued in unknown. It became part of Searcy County. Sang was established in 1892 and discontinued in 1909. The mail went to Okay. Scotland was established in 1874. After a close call a few years ago, it is still there. Scullin was established in 1907 and discontinued in 1908 when it was changed to Elba. S e a r v a n / S e a rban was established in 1901 and discontinued in 1903. The mail went to Una. Settlement was established in 1889 and discontinued in 1915. The mail went to Shirley. Shiloh was established in 1871 and discontinued in 1954. The mail went to Heber Spring. It became part of Cleburne County in 1883.

Shirley was established in 1909. It is still there. Starbee was established in 1926 and discontinued in 1931. The mail went to Leslie. Una was established in 1897 and discontinued in 1955. The mail went to Leslie. Valley Springs was established in 1854 and discontinued in 1857. Waco was established in 1881 when it changed from Goff and discontinued in 1904. It became part of Cleburne County in 1883. Wellsville was established in 1837, the year it was discontinued is unknown. It was named for Timothy R. Wells. Whipple was established in 1900 and discontinued in 1906. It was changed from Conway County in 1904. The mail went to Bee Branch. Woolum was established in 1908 and discontinued in 1953. It became part of Searcy County in 1917. It became part of Van Buren County in 1919. Woolverton was established in 1894 and discontinued in 1910. It was changed from Conway County in 1903. The mail went to Formosa. It was named for Loretta N. Woolverton. Current post offices in Van Buren County are Bee Branch, Choctaw, Clinton, Dennard, Scotland, and Shirley. Fairfield Bay has its own zip code. More information on these post offices (locations, names of post masters, etc.) can be found at the Arkansas History Commission, Little Rock, Arkansas. Information for this article is from the following references: Arkansas Post Offices: From Memdag to Norsk, A Historical Directory, 1832-1990 by Russell P. Baker and The Van Buren County Historical Society.

18th Annual Live Nativity, Tue. Dec. 1st. - Sat. 7th. Held at Van Buren County Fair Grounds on Hwy 16 East.

Give A Gii e Wal-Mart Angel Tree Toy drive will be Saturday, December 55. We are happy to accept bought toys, monetary donations and good condition, clean, used toys. ank you and have a safe Christmas Season.

With 2 live performances nightly at 6:00 & 7:00 p.m. each showing with local children & animals.

Dress for the weather, cocoa & coffee served.

For more information; call Paul Rhoda at 501-745-8377 or Tamie at 501-745-8255. The “Nelson Family” will be singing between performances and it’s FREE to the public.

December 1, 2015

The Voice of Van Buren County

Fun & Games

Page 7

Post offices of yesterday

Weekly Crossword

By EuGene Smith

Rules Here at The Voice of Van Buren County, we love puzzles and games, contests and prizes. And we want you to play along with us. Solve our Word Find puzzle and enter for a chance to win a prize. Puzzle entry may not be a photocopy, originals from newspaper only. Let us know “Where In the County Is This?” and you become eligible for our drawing for a one-year subscription to The Voice. There will be one winner for each contest every month. To enter, mail your puzzles to The Voice / P.O. Box 1396 / Clinton, AR 72031 or drop them by our downtown office, 260 Griggs St., Clinton. You can also call us at 745-8040 to tell us where the week’s picture was taken. This month’s drawings will be held Dec. 31, 2015. Entries accepted through Dec. 30.

Where In the County Is This?

This week's location is a bit trickier, but some of you will know where in the county this can be seen. Tell us where for your chance to win a one-year subscription to The Voice of Van Buren County. See rules at left.

Another chance to win! The Voice of Van Buren County has commissioned a beautiful Christmas quilt from Rose's Country Fabrics. For your chance to win it, you need to tell us, in 250 words or fewer, about your favorite Christmas memory. Your entry must be in our office by Dec. 17, 2015. Our panel of judges will choose its favorite and the winner will be announced in our Dec. 22 issue. All decisions are final. E-mail your entry to voiceeditor@artelco.com, mail it to The Voice of Van Buren County / P.O. Box 1396 / Clinton, AR 72031 or bring it by our office at 260 Griggs St., Clinton. It's a lovely queen-size quilt. Good luck!

Our Van Buren County Family Album By Shay Belonie

(Solution on Page 5- no peeking!)

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 8

December 1, 2015

CHURCH PAGE Pleasant Grove Friendship Church 2221O 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

Photo by EuGene Smith

Only five of you called and correctly identified last week's photo as Archey Valley Community Church. Can you identify the Church pictured this week? 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 745-3530 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

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

Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church 250 Dave Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay 884-3304 Landmark Missionary Baptist Church ABA 229 Third St., Clinton

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

Faith Christian 10839 Edgemont Road, Edgemont 723-8109

Liberty Missionary Baptist Church 2712 Highway 254 W, Chimes Community

Shady Grove Baptist Church 5448 Shady Grove Road, Shirley 723-4273

Faith Lutheran Church 310 Snead Drive, Fairfield Bay 884-3375

Low Gap Community Chapel 4320 Low Gap Road, Alread

Shady Grove Chapel 4790 Highway 254 E, Dennard

Lute Mountain Community Church Victory Lane near Highway 16, Shirley 723-8299

Shirley Church of Christ 10509 Highway 16 E, Shirley 745-4859

MainLine Full Gospel 114 Mariposa Loop, Bee Branch 253-1005

Shirley Community Church/First United Methodist 784 Matthew Clark Memorial Drive, Shirley 723-4387

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

Clinton Church of Christ 184 Third Street, Clinton 654-2354

First General Baptist Church 664 Highway 16 E, Clinton 745-4043

Clinton Seventh-day Adventist Church 125 Skyhill Drive, Clinton 745-4043

First Pentecostal Church of Clinton Highway 65 S at 1128 Lyn Road, Choctaw

Clinton United Methodist Church 636 Joe Bowling Road, Clinton 745-5181 Colony Church of Christ Hwy 92 E, Bee Branch

Crabtree Foursquare Church 11301 Highway 16 W, Crabtree 745-2894

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses 3624 Highway 65 S, Clinton 745-8781

Salem Primitive Baptist Church Gravesville Cutoff Road, Bee Branch

Lexington Baptist Church 9525 Highway 110, Shirley 723-4787

Church of the Nazarene 1664 Highway 65 S, Clinton

Cornerstone Evangelical Church 3351 Highway 330 S, Fairfield Bay 884-6657

Kaley Hill Missionary Baptist 6505 Highway 356, Bee Branch

Rupert Baptist Church 21434 Highway 16 W, Clinton 745-8593

Faith Baptist Church Highway 65 N & Harper Mountain Lane Dennard,AR

First Baptist Church of Sugarloaf 557 Arkansas 337, Higden 654-2354

Corinth Baptist Church 5158 Holley Mountain Road, Clinton

Immanuel Baptist Church 498 Highway 16 E, Clinton 745-8528

Red River of Life Church of God 10839 Edgemont Road, Edgemont 723-8109

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 654-2402

Shirley First Baptist Church 10277 Highway 16 E, Shirley 723-8171 South Side Baptist Highway 65 N, Damascus 335-7423

New Beginning Church 12200 Highway 254 E, Dennard

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 250 Woodlawn Drive, Fairfield Bay 884-3349

New Hope Baptist Church 4198 Highway 65 N, Clinton 757-2332

Tabernacle of Praise 159 Boston Fern Road, Shirley 723-8280

Formosa Baptist Church Highway 9 and County Line Road, Clinton 745-7709

New Liberty Church of Christ 4815 Highway 95, Cleveland 669-2575

The Gathering Ministry Outreach 80746 Highway 16 W, Rupert 745-3883

Formosa Church of Christ 4940 Highway 9 W Clinton 745-4446

New Life Apostolic Church of Clinton 198 Richard Road, Clinton 745-6411

The New Tabernacle 12174 Highway 65 N, Dennard 514-8535

Friendship Baptist Church 1321 Third St., Clinton 745-7177 Full Gospel Tabernacle 128 Catland Lane, Shirley 723-4500

Culpepper Community Church 6055 Highway 336 W, Culpepper

Grace Baptist Church 3793 Highway 65 S, Clinton 472-7462

Culpepper Mountain Church of Christ 118 South Essie Road, Culpepper

Half Moon Baptist Church 1031 Half Moon Road, Clinton 745-2273

Damascus Church of Christ No. 6 Highway 124 W, Damascus 745-4446

Harmony Mountain Church of Christ Quattlebaum and Harmony Mtn Roads 745-2059

Damascus United Methodist Church 17194 Highway 65 S, Damascus

Hope Community Church 905 Damascus Road, Quitman

Peace Lutheran Church of Edgemont 10849 Edgemont Road, Edgemont 723-4726

Trace Ridge Bible Church Highway 254 W at Morris Road, Chimes Walnut Grove Church 6940 Highway 95 W, Clinton 745-3445

Pee Dee Baptist Church 2744 Highway 16 E, Clinton 745-4115

Zion Hill Missionary Baptist ABA 29129 Highway 16 W, Jerusalem 745-4467

Pine Grove General Baptist Church 102 Silvertree Road, Shirley

Last Week's Featured Church

Pine Mountain General Baptist Church Gravesville Cutoff Road, South of Bee Branch Plant Baptist Church 4897 Highway 110, Clinton 745-6887

Archey Valley Community Church.

The Voice of Van Buren County

December 1, 2015

Page 9

Fishing Report A Touch of Lime Goes a Long Way

Family and Community Fishing Program staff recently worked with the City of Little Rock to apply 2,000 pounds of bagged agricultural lime to MacArthur Park Pond. MacArthur Park Pond hosts some of the FCFP's largest fishing derbies each year. This addition will stabilize the water quality of the pond, so stocked trout and catfish can continue to thrive in its waters and attract new anglers for years to come.

Central Arkansas

Lake Conway

(Updated 11-242015) Daniel Zajac at Gold Creek Landing (501-607-0590) said crappie fishing is very good on minnows and jigs, but jigs are producing better than minnows. The best action has been in Gold Creek and back in the pond. No report on any other species.

Little Red River (Greers Ferry Tailwater)

(Updated 11-242015) Lowell Myers of Sore Lip ‘em All Guide Service said the Little Red River is receiving water release from one-generation unit. Expect this to continue until the Greers Ferry Lake gets below top pool level. Use long leaders and fish deep during the heavy water release. Streamers, sow bugs, egg patterns and San Juan worms are working well. For Trout Magnet fishing, use cotton candy and purple bodies on silver and chartreuse jig heads. (Updated 11-242015) Greg Seaton

with Little Red Fly Fishing Trips (501690-9166) said generation continues to be one unit about 20 hours per day. The river is clear after the big rain last weekend. Fishing has been slow due to the higher water. Drift fishing is the only option at this time. The lake is about 8 inches high in the flood pool, so the generation will probably stay the same until the lake returns to normal. Brown trout are moving up but still are not in the numbers you would expect at this time. The colder weather will probably start the spawning process. The rainbows are still trying to spawn and some large rainbows are being caught. Egg patterns, large nymphs and San Juan worms seem to be the best choices for flies.

Greers Ferry

As of Wednesday, the Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake’s elevation at 462.39 feet msl (normal conservation pool – 462.04 msl). Updated 11-242015) Tommy Cauley of Fish Finder Guide Service said the water level is 0.43 feet above normal pool and falling. Fishing for black bass is pretty good shallow using spinner baits, small crankbaits and jigs. The water clarity is not so good for the deeper fish, but is improving. Crappie are getting settled back down from the 4-foot rise. They are suspended in 1225 feet of water in the guts and points of the main lake and all secondary points in the pole timber. No report on catfish. Walleye are on the move

and are hit-and-miss. Try trolling big crankbaits around points in 15-40 feet of water over 80-100 feet. Bream have shut down. The hybrid and white bass bite is soso with the dirty water. As it clears the catching should be great on topwater baits, spoons and inline spinners.

Harris Brake Lake

(Updated 1124-2015) Whiskers Sporting Goods in Perryville (501-8892011) said the crappie are biting on minnows and Bobby Garland Baby Itty Bit Swim’Rs in monkey milk, pennyback shad, blue ice shimmer and Cajun cricket in 6 to 10 feet of water. Catfishing is good on worms, shad and minnows. Bass are biting buzzbaits and worms. White bass are biting well on Johnson Silver Minnows and Bobby Garland Itty Bit Swim’Rs. Bream are biting on crickets and worms.

Arkansas River (Little Rock Pool)

(Updated 1124-2015) McSwain Sports Center (501945-2471) said the water is a little high and muddy right now. There haven’t been many fishing reports come in to the shop. Be aware that duck hunters may be on some of the sandbars and islands in the river.

Clear Lake

(Updated 1124-2015) McSwain Sports Center (501945-2471) said the water is up about 3 to 4 inches from last week and is still very muddy. About the only fish worth mentioning right now is the

crappie. They are biting fairly well on minnows. Everything else has been very slow.

North Arkansas

Lake Norfork

As of Wednesday, the Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake’s elevation at 557.89 feet msl (normal conservation pool: September-April – 553.75 msl, April-September – 556.75 msl). (Updated 11-242015) Tom Reynolds of STR Outfitters said Norfork Lake went through a lot of changes last week. We had more than 4 inches of rain that raised the lake about 5 feet above normal pool. The cold weather and water rise has changed the whole striper pattern. The stripers are now feeding in the Blue Lady area in the 50-foot range along the channel heading toward Crystal Cove. They are also in Float and Panther creeks. Again, stay in the 40to 50-foot range with your baits set 35 feet deep. Also set out a free line with just a split shot 50 feet behind your boat. There are very large bait balls all the way up to Fout Boat Dock. For all you live bait users, the shiner bite has started. Shad are still working well, but shiners were catching stripers the whole weekend.

Northwest Arkansas

Beaver Lake

As of Wednesday, the Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake’s elevation at 1,120.05 feet msl (normal conservation pool – 1,120 msl).

(Updated 11-242015) Bailey’s Beaver Lake Guide Service (479-366-8664) said the water temperature is in the high 50’s. Stripers are using deep water next to roadbeds, gravel bars, tree lines and bluffs. The stripers in the White River and War Eagle arms are in clear water pockets or close to the banks and on the bottom along gravel bars. Use the mud line to your advantage, as it often concentrates schools bait fish and stripers. The bite will improve after this cold front gets settled and the weather gets back to normal. Striper fishing should be good on live shad taken on live shad fished from the surface down 25 to 30 feet deep. Also try trolling small umbrella rigs with white grubs (chartreuse for stained water) or plugs on flat lines or slightly weighted lines. Rapala no. 14 Husky Jerks in black back or purple back colors and 5- to 6-inch Smithwick Rogues in similar colors are working well. Striper are also being caught at night by trolling main lake points with large surface lures like Redfins and Rapalas on bottom bouncers or 3-way rigs, Don’t be afraid to go big for hungry striper. Indian Creek still has some stripers in it. Check past the marina near the power lines. Be sure to check main lake structures and secondary points around Larue and Rocky Branch to catch Beaver Lake Striper as they make their way towards the river. The hot spots are Coppermine, Ventris, Shaddox Hollow, the Highway 12 Bridge, Prairie Creek, Coose

Hollow and Beaver Shores. Horseshoe Bend, Monte-Ne and Hickory Creek are also hot right now, as are War Eagle and the White River upstream of Point 12. Most walleye have moved to the second drop and are being caught about 2030ft deep they can be caught using a variety of methods. Threeway rigging Rapalas in natural colors for clear water or chartreuse/orange and clown colors in areas of stained water. Try shad raps in natural colors and rattle traps trolled at 1-2mph. Bink pro scale 1-oz jigging spoons in white or white/chart combo are producing walleye (Updated 11-242015) Southtown Sporting Goods (479443-7148) said the water is stained in the river arms, but is clear in the main lake. The water level has risen back to normal level from the recent rain. Crappie are biting very well. Red/chartreuse and black/chartreuse jigs and live minnows fished around brush in 8 to 12 feet of water are working the best. A few crappie also are being caught shallow in random brush and laydowns. Bass are fair on spinnerbaits, crankbaits and topwater lures early in the morning. Once the sun is up, spoons and jigs fished around deep ledges and cover are working well for the black bass. Stripers are fair at best with the recent rain. They are starting to hit topwater lures early in the mornings. White bass are biting well upriver on Rooster Tails.

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The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 10

December 1, 2015

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Call (501) 253-0924 Thank you, Gene and Terry, for making our Thanksgiving Day so wonderful. You open your heart and your home and invite us all in to overindulge in the here and now, even as we reflect on the past. For Thanksgiving with you, we travel from far and near, because we love being here!