The Voice of Van Buren County - February 16, 2021

Of the people, By the people, For the people

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Gilbert Ott

TUESDAY, February 16, 2021 / Vol. 7 Issue 7 / 75 cents

State Suggests County Seek Legal Counsel For Ozark Health Inc. Payments

by Adam Kuipers

For the past three years, Van Buren County taxpayers’ money has been used in violation of law to pay expenses related to two private companies, one owned by a member of the Ozark Health Inc. (OHI) Board of Directors, the other owned by a member of the Van Buren County Hospital Board of Governors.

The Arkansas Legislative Audit has again noted legal issues surrounding maintenance costs at the county hospital and nursing home in its 2019 audit of Van Buren County finances.

In the report recently issued for the year ending December 31, 2019, auditors noted the following findings: “A building owned by the County and operated as a nursing home per a lease agreement with a private nonprofit corporation [OHI], incurred flood damage in 2018.

This lease agreement states that routine repairs and maintenance and damage to or destruction of the property are the responsibility of [OHI]. Coun-

ty hospital millage funds may be used for maintenance and improvements if approved by the County.

[OHI] contracted with a company owned by a member of its Board of Directors [NOACON Inc.] to act as a construction manager for building repairs. A business owned by a member of the County Hospital Board of Governors [Ozark Construction Company Of Dennard Arkansas Inc. (Ozark Construction)] was then hired by this company as a subcontractor to perform a substantial amount of the work.

Subsequently, [OHI’s] insurance company denied a claim for repairs performed by [NOACON Inc.], and according to the County Judge, [NOACON Inc.] invoiced construction costs totaling $317,090 directly to the County, at the request of [OHI’s] Board member.”

The auditor continues, “We question the County’s responsibility for these expenses and noted the following issues regarding the payments made by the County:” “The County paid $155,851 in 2019 and $99,150 in 2020 of the

[$317,090] for the hospital building repairs.”

“Amounts were paid without a contract or bid documentation, in noncompliance with Ark. Code Ann. § 14-14-1102, which requires the County Judge to verify that state purchasing and other laws are complied with, and the payment has been incurred lawfully and is owed by the County. Furthermore, the remaining invoice balance of $62,089 was paid by [OHI.] in 2020 because the County did not have sufficient funds available for payment.”

“Amounts paid in 2019 and 2020 were for work performed by [Ozark Construction] owned by a member of the County Hospital Board of Governors without an authorizing ordinance, as required

by Ark. Code Ann. § 14-14-1202. A similar finding was issued in the previous report.”

The auditor concludes: “We recommend County officials seek legal guidance regarding these payments.”

In the report for the year ending on December 31, 2018, auditors noted the following issues:

“The County paid the following without authorizing ordinances, as required by Ark. Code Ann. § 14-141202:” “$1,086 to a business, in which the Hospital Board of Governors Chair (the Chair) had ownership interest [Ozark Construction], that was acting as a subcontractor for a company performing emergency repairs to the hospital.” “$18,749 to 19 employees of a business in which the Chair had ownership interest [Ozark Construction] for emergency repairs and other maintenance to the hospital.”

While the Legislative Audit for the year ending December 31, 2020, will not be completed for another year, the auditor has already noted that at least $99,150 has been paid to NOACON Inc. for work primarily performed

by Ozark Construction in violation of applicable laws in 2020.

In 2019 and 2020, Van Buren County voters were lobbied See Counsel on page 5

The first wave of snow brought over seven inches to Simlock Acres early Monday morning. photo by Warren Johnson

Clinton Fire Chief D.L. Webb

Fire Chief cautions residents as Old Man Winter settles into the County

by Warren Johnson

With the mercury dipping into low temperatures, the County has not seen in a decade or two, Clinton Fire Chief D.L. Webb has a few tips for navigating the arctic blast.

"The frigid temperatures can be especially hazardous for our older community and pets," Webb cautioned. We need to be mindful to check on the elderly, friends, neighbors, and family members.

Outside water sources will freeze over almost instantly, leaving animals without anything to drink, and ambient temperature can prove to be deadly for pets. Webb admonished, "please keep your pets inside."

Outside water sources are not the only concerns with freeze-ups, the Chief said. "Please keep your water slightly running. Water costs money, but not as much as a plumber if pipes burst."

Trying to stay warm is a primary cause of structure fires each year. Municipal fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated annual average of 48,530 house fires caused by heating equipment. Heating equipment fires resulted in estimated five-hundred civilian deaths, with 1,350 civilian injuries in 2018.

The Chief stated, "The wiring in your house can not support fif-

teen electric heaters.

Consolidate heat to one room if you have to." While electric heat can pose a fire risk, Webb wants to remind everyone to be mindful of propane and natural gas sources.

Gas heat can cause deadly and invisible carbon monoxide.

The models are predicting a significant weather event.

Chief Webb cautioned the community to prepare ahead of time, stating, "Please gather food, water, medicine, batteries, and fuel before the roads become hazardous.

Please stay off the roads if possible after precipitation covers them. If you get in a wreck, you jeopardize other people."

Fill your gas tanks in your vehicles, so you can keep warm if you must or can use the car to charge cell phones in case of a power outage. Remember proper ventilation when sitting in a parked car with an internal combustion engine running. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur.

One last word of advice in case of heavy snow involves watching structures with flat roofs or sheds. They can collapse under the weight.

Webb stated, "I know a lot of this is common sense, but we have not had these kinds of cold temperatures in a long time. Please stay safe and warm, and do not burn your house down."

K9 Officer has a nose for Crystal and Green Leafy Substances

by Warren Johnson

On February 7, 2021, at around 9:30 pm, a Clinton PD officer was traveling Northbound on US Highway 65 at Choctaw when he observed a Southbound vehicle near US 65 and Jason Street that appeared to be cruising at a high-speed rate. To confirm his visual observation, the officer used his vehicle radar and verified the vehicle was clipping sixty-nine miles per hour in a speed zone designated for forty-five.

The officer con-

ducted a traffic stop on the vehicle, a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, just south of the Choctaw bridge, contacting the driver, Jonathan Greenwood. As the officer spoke with Greenwood, he could smell a strong odor of Marijuana coming from the vehicle. He instructed Greenwood to exit the car and then asked him if there was anything in the vehicle he needed to know about?

Greenwood replied, "Yes, Marijuana."

The officer deployed his K9 Terry, started from the

vehicle's passenger side rear, and worked counterclockwise. The K9 showed a drastic change in breathing behavior from "Fast to slow" at the rear passenger tail light. Terry made a final alert at the back passenger door by sitting and pointing his nose to the door. A plastic Walmart bag was located behind the driver's seat with two clear plastic bags with a green leafy substance inside during the vehicle search. Also found was a Purple Crown Royal bag in the trunk with five clear plas-

tic bags with a green leafy substance inside and a plastic bag containing THC gummies and Ninety-Seven dollars, all five dollars bills, and one two-dollar bill.

Greenwood was cited for speeding and Possession of a Controlled Substance but released due to the Covid-19 restrictions at the Van Buren County Detention Center. During this traffic stop, a total of 82.214 Grams (2.9 See K9 on page 5

Clinton Police K9 Officer Terry posing with a green leafy substance sniffed out during a vehicle search on February 7, 2021

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 2

February 16, 2021

THAT

BANNER MOUNTAIN GIRL

by Freeda Baker Nichols

Old Man Winter is coming to town With all the buzz about the weather forecast, it’s enough to set one’s nerves on edge. My first thought is what if the power goes off? That’s my concern, as I’m sure it’s the concern of many other people. Up until now, we’ve had a fairly pleasant wintertime. But that’s about to change as we prepare for the incoming winter storm. The excitement of snow brings back our childhood memories of school turned out, having snowball fights and building snowmen. Also sledding down the hills and eating the most delicious dessert ever invented--snow ice-cream.

There is nothing else to compare to the sweet vanilla taste of those snowflakes in a bowl.

So, here’s hoping that a good old-fashioned snow will fall gently around the countryside, give us a chance to play a little in it, and eat some snow cream, and then see the sun come out and melt it all away. However, we are being told that the temperatures are going

Old Man Winter

by Freeda Baker Nichols

Old man winter with icy breath will make you shiver half to death, and frost hands,

your

give you mands

com-

to make you sneeze and nearly freeze in snowflakes stacked up to your knees.

Doors

by Tom Hogan

Choice or no choice Aware or unaware One way or revolving Clear or opaque Locked or not Life is doors Like it or not

to drop into the single digits. And stay like that for a few days.

Getting back to my question of what if the power goes off— I’m reminded of writers’ tips on how to begin stories. We are told to begin a story with “What if?” I suppose I could begin writing now and create a fictional piece of the many things that might happen if the power does go off in the next few days. Or, if it really does go off, I’ll have plenty of stuff to write about after it happens.

My wish is that all will be well and everyone will be safe during the extremely cold weather.

When I wrote my first poem as a youngster, I thought all there was to writing a poem was to make it rhyme.

But I learned that words in poems are placed there according to a pattern or form.

The following poem, “Old Man Winter” is written in the Butterfly form. It has a syllable count of 8-8-4-4-88. It also has a rhyme scheme and it often is done in iambic meter.

How to get your Covid-19 vaccination in Van Buren County

by Jimmy Shull numbers listed to verify and

According to the Arkansas Department of Health, “If you are a long-term care resident or staff member.

You will likely receive the vaccine through a clinic at the facility. If you work in a hospital, you will likely receive the vaccine through a clinic at your worksite.

Others who are in 1-A can receive the vaccine through a community-based pharmacy.

Arkansans who are 70 and older can also make an appointment at a community pharmacy beginning January 18, 2021. Vaccine clinics and events may also be available in your area through hospitals and health care providers. For those who work in education, the district, facility, or college/university should determine how many doses are needed, and then reach out to an ADH Local Health Unit or a community pharmacy to schedule a vaccination clinic.”

All of the Van Buren County Pharmacies and their vaccination procedures are listed below. These procedures and locations may change over time.

You may call the phone

the current guidelines.

1. American Home Pharmacy, Clinton, Arkansas. You may call for a vaccine appointment at (501) 745-4266.

2. Clinton Drug, Clinton, Arkansas.

Phone (501) 745-8414.

Appointments can easily be made online with a smartphone or computer. Either search Clinton Drug or go directly to their website clintondrug.com. Locate the box labeled Vaccine Waitlist, click and then fill out the information requested.

The Clinton Drug website also allows other categories to sign up for appointments.

Such at category 1-A personnel and the age group 65-69.

3. Fairfield Bay Pharmacy and Home Medical, Fairfield Bay, Arkansas. Phone (501) 884-3388. As with the Clinton Drug, appointments can be made online with a smartphone or computer. By doing a search for Fairfield Bay Pharmacy or going directly to their website at fairfieldbaypharmacy.com, Their website will begin with the COVID-19 phase guidance, and you may scroll down to the box labeled BOOK NOW

click. This will take to the Vaccination times, your personal information required, and a confirmation box. After providing this information, you will need to go back to the BOOK NOW box, and just below it, you will see “click here to download and print the Consent form to fill out before your appointment.” If you are unable to print this form, it will be provided at your vaccination appointment.

4. Walmart Pharmacy, Clinton Arkansas. Phone (501) 7452498 and follow the

prompt for the pharmacy. Walmart is just beginning their vaccination program, and little information is available to the consumer.

At this time, for the Clinton Walmart, navigate to Walmart.com.

There is a Covid-19 link (box) near the bottom of the page. Clicking on it will take you to a vaccination page with verbiage indicating it is still pending development.

All indications are that it will be working soon and that you can shortly schedule a vaccine appointment online similar to other locations.

All vaccines will be scheduled based on the ADH directives and based on availability. All Covid-19 data may be found on the Arkansas Department of Health Website at healthy.arkansas.gov or Center for Disease and Prevention at cdc.gov.

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

February 16, 2021

Page 3

Mary Jean Hall's passion is still strong after 41 years

by Warren Johnson

James & Joyce Burns Scotland

Regs for details.

Every little warm spell makes me want to rush out and start my garden, but I haven’t botany plants yet.

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

Well, that's it for this week; I sure hope everyone stays warm for the next week or however long this weather lasts!

Prayers go out to all the people who are having health problems.

May God bless all with a good week.

Patsy Ward

Thelma Murray

Formosa

Shirley

Jeffry Burgess Crabtree

Compliments of a polar vortex, the ice, snow and extreme cold, has made life even more difficult lately. Thankfully the weather forecast predicts some moderation towards the weekend. We need to keep reminding ourselves “spring is just around the corner, spring is just around the corner.”

Friday, the first quarter moon is official at 12:49 p.m. It will be visible at dusk and set by 1 a.m.

Monday and Tuesday are “Best Days” for planting aboveground crops, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

Of course, that’s only if the ground has thawed out by then.

Weather permitting, the Arkansas Sports Car Club of America and Rally Arkansas will hold a RallyX “Test n Tune” event, Saturday, February 27, in Crabtree.

Scoring will not be kept but drivers will be able to see their times, making it a good opportunity for rookies to get dirty without the pressures of competition.

For more information go to their Facebook page or search: arscca.org.

The last day for hunting rabbit and squirrel this season is Sunday, February 28. Check the

Frankie and Erica Ward, and the boys spent the weekend with Marva and RG Ward. On Saturday evening, they met Erica's parents, Lori and Larry Brock, her sister Beverly and her husband and Dakota in Conway and had dinner at Market Place.

Sindee had outpatient surgery on Wednesday. She is doing ok. She goes back in a couple of weeks for more surgery. Hopefully, they will get her fixed up.

Scott went to the Dr. on Wednesday. He didn't get a good report.

He had a stroke recently, and it affected his eyesight.

Barbara Ashley and Katy Holloway, of Maumelle, visited their mother and grandmother, Sammie Story, on Saturday. Also visiting were her grandson, JB and Carla Story, and their girls, Isabella, Maggie, and Emileigh. It sounds like she had a good day!

I got my Covid-19 shot this week. So far, I've had no reaction and hardly any soreness in my arm. I sure do hope it works!

Ruth Hodge is staying safe and healthy.

Jim Hooten and I completed some spring garden planning by phone, Sunday afternoon.

I checked on Inez Privitt and Kathy Garrigus; they are staying home where they are safe and healthy.

Kelton Jones is at Indian Rock Village in Fairfield Bay and is doing pretty good, as reported by his grandson. The residents there can't have visitors so far this year, but maybe before this year has passed, they can.

Ruth Hodge had her 97 birthday on Friday, February 12, she shares her birthday with President Lincoln, and she is as tough as a pine knot, she drives her car down to her mailbox, and she drives herself to church on Sunday.

My birthday has lasted for over a week; I got my first gift on February 3 and my last on February 11.

There is ice on the mountain about 4 miles up Highway 110 from Shirley.

It really Happened

make a pot. Afterward, fee that tastes like that.

A Mom got up and went to work early one morning; later, her son got up and decided to brew a pot of coffee.

He had purchased a new coffee brand that he hadn't tried before, so he was anxious to

hot cup, but it was the worst coffee he had ever tasted.

When his dad got up, he had him try the peculiar brew, and his dad didn't know what was wrong with it. He couldn't figure out why anyone would sell cof-

by Thelma Murray He poured himself a It puzzled them all day.

When his mom got home, they had her try the new coffee. She told them there was nothing wrong with the coffee; she had put vinegar in the pot before leaving and forgot to run it through.

Mary Jean Hall, a generational native of Scotland, Arkansas, is a local historian whose roots run deep in Van Buren County.

Her great-grandfather Robert Hall and his family settled here in 1849, with his uncle, Joshua Hall, arriving ten years earlier.

In what would become a lifelong passion, Mary Jean began researching her genealogy and Scotland's history in 1980. Her early research involved combing through years of archived newspaper articles and photographs on microfiche.

Mary Jean's home is like visiting a time capsule. The walls display images from a by-gone era when the streets of Scotland bustled with activity. One photograph on display portrays a period when the town closely resembled the Wild West. Another image is one of the only known photos of the old Scotland bank building.

The similarity to the Old West brought filmmakers and technicians to Scotland in the Summer of 1959. Locations in and around Scotland were captured on film when the western movie "Terror at Black Falls" was produced. The picture starred House Peters, Jr. as the sheriff. In his autobiography, Peters recalled, "Scotland still had unpaved dirt streets, with buildings similar to those constructed in the 1880s. All the filmmakers had to do was cover up advertising signs and gas pumps."

Peters had worked with Roy Rogers and Gene Autry on the big screen and appeared in many shows developed for television, including Gunsmoke, Lassie, The Twilight Zone, and Perry Mason. He was probably best known for serving as the model and actor for the original Mr. Clean commercials.

Several folks from the Scotland area and Van Buren County became extras in various scenes of the feature, including Paige Bouyear of Clinton, who was gunned down in cold blood in the picture!

Bouyer operated the iconic Bluebonnet DriveIn at Clinton during the period.

Terror at Black Falls debuted in theaters during the summer of 1962 and was met with much fanfare when it

Mary Jean at the Civil War Marker dedication in Clinton in 2012 came to Clinton, with lines backed up for a half block.

Mary Jean collected memorabilia from the film and communicated with Peters until he died in 2008. Afterward, his family gifted her a canister with the original film inside.

Her friendship with the actor prompted Peters and his wife Lucy to return to Scotland in 1993. The townspeople gave a potluck at the community center in their honor. "We had a cake with "Terror at Black Falls," cowboy boots and horses on it. Local people who had parts in the film as extras came to visit and have lunch too. It was a lot of fun! House and Lucy enjoyed the visit."

Mary Jean recalled.

The Black Falls collection was on loan for several years, being on display at various venues. In 2013, it landed at The Old State House Museum, where it exhibited as part of their Lights! Camera! Arkansas! Presentation.

In 2017, She donated her collection to the Arkansas State Archives in Little Rock. "It made quite a journey while on tour. But will now live on and be enjoyed by the ages." Mary said.

Terror at Black Falls is only a tiny part of Mary’s story. The 1968 graduate of Scotland High School is a member of eighteen genealogy, historical, and lineage societies and holds offices in several. She has taught genealogy classes through community education at U.A.C.C.M in Morrilton and the Van Buren County Library in Clinton. She has seven books to her credit while writing articles for magazines and newspapers.

In her downtime, Mary participates in ancestor fairs, attends genealogical society seminars, and conducts historic cemetery walkthroughs.

She continues her education today at Ar-

Mary Jean Hall has been a student of local history since 1980

EuGene Smith and Mary Jean Hall portray early Pilgrims at a Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims meeting. kansas Tech University in Russellville and graduated from the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton in 2002.

Over the years, logging thousands of volunteer hours and assisting many people in their quest to obtain information has earned her Scotland High Schools Distinguished Alumnus award and the Community Service Award from the Pleasant Grove Lodge.

On April 14, 2012, her hard work's culmination became a reality when a Civil War Sesquicentennial Marker dedication took place at the Main Street Park in Clinton, Arkansas. The marker would have never come to fruition without her strong will and perseverance.

Mary Jean Hall is an inspiration to a new generation of historians following her footsteps.

Page 4

Obituaries

Diana Marie Lovett

Diana Marie Lovett, age 61, died peacefully in the arms of her loving husband on her birthday, January 24, 2021, in their home in Clinton, Arkansas, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Diane is survived by her husband, Paul Lovett; a son Donald Young McIntyre III; and her mother, Donna Shinall.

Diane loved traveling vacations, attending music concerts and motorcycle rides with her husband Paul and raising their third Doberman Pinscher, Brutus, together. But most of all, Diane loved living in the country again.

A great joy of hers was working in and around their home and property in the Choctaw area, where they relocated to in 2016.

Diane also enjoyed being a Fairfield Bay VFW Post 4513 Auxiliary member, where she was a Life Member. Diane was also a member of the VFW Post Auxiliary Color Guard, participating in Veteran's Day Parades in Branson, Missouri, and the 4th of July Parades in Fairfield Bay.

da Ross, John and Orpha Tipton, daughter Baby Girl, and son Eric Burchfield.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Teena Ross, Father, J.R Ross and Mother, Julia Ross of Imboden, AR; children, Jonathan Ross and Jessica Ross of Clinton, AR, Alison Fowler and husband Gregg Fowler of Essex, MO, Travis Burchfield of Alexander, AR, Andrea Howard and husband Colby Howard of Clinton, AR. Siblings, Annette Prater and husband Huston Prater of Southaven, MS, Angelia Pratt and Trey Sellers of Jonesboro, AR, Amy Freeman and husband Garald Freeman of Imboden, AR. Numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, family members and friends who love Allen and will miss home always.

To truly commemorate Allen, a celebration of life will be held at the Fairfield Bay Marina in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas on April 24, 2021. Other than home or on the rig, this was the place he loved to be.

Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.

Jane Ellen Evans

Allen Ross

Allen Ross, 59, of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas.

Passed away February 6, 2021 in his home surrounded by family.

Born September 3, 1961 in Jonesboro, AR to Virgil “JR” and Julia Ross.

Allen was the salutatorian of Lynn High School Class of 1979.

Allen graduated Black River Technical College Class of 1999 with Merit.

Graduate of Arkansas Fire Academy in 2002.

Allen pursued the life of being a Paramedic for 20 years. Many of those heartfelt years were spent as a manager of Southern Paramedic Services.

Allen’s passion, when not helping people, was being outdoors.

He enjoyed wood working and camping, but fishing most of all.

Preceding Allen in death are his grandparents, Virgil and Aman-

Jane Ellen Evans, 77, of Bee Branch, Arkansas, went to her heavenly home on February 9, 2021. She entered this world in Janesville, Wisconsin, to Rudolph and Leona (Reich) Wetzel to the delight of her parents.

She is preceded in death by both parents.

Jane married the love of her life Doice Evans on May 30, 1964, in Janesville, Wisconsin; together, they welcomed two sons and a daughter into their lives.

She retired after thirty years of service at Parker-Pen-Panoramic-Gillette in Wisconsin.

Jane loved cooking, baking, and the outdoors especially camping in Wisconsin. She enjoyed watching hummingbirds, riding horses, four wheeling, and gardening.

Jane also traveled and was blessed to have been able to see Alaska, Las Vegas, Florida, Tunica, and don't forget the cruises; Bahama, Jamaica, and Cancun, Mexico. Her love for her family and her rat terrier, Ollie, surpassed all the travels and adventures.

Your wings were ready, but our hearts

The Voice of Van Buren County were not. We love you.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Doice of the home, children; Michael (Julie)Evans of Milton, Wisconsin, Tim Evans, Amy Evans of Janesville, Wisconsin, grandchildren; Chase Evans, Trevor Evans, Sydney Evans, Tommy (Andria) Adams, great-grandchild, Blaine Adams and a host of family and friends.

On Monday, February 15, 2021, Visitation was from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton, Arkansas. Funeral services followed at 2:00 pm with interment at Blackwell Cemetery in Bee Branch, Arkansas.

To express condolences online, visit www. ro l l e r f u n e r a l h o m e s . com/clinton.

Jerry Wayne Brents

Jerry Wayne Brents, Sr., 75, of Russellville, passed away peacefully at 6:00 p.m. Monday, February 8, 2021.

He was born on May 3, 1945, in Cleveland, Arkansas, to Joe Laudis "Bill" Brents and Minnie Mae Henderson Brents.

He was a member of the Russellville First Assembly of God. He grew up moving with his family across Arkansas, Colorado, Oregon, New Mexico, and California.

This gave him a deep appreciation for traveling and being outdoors.

He settled in Arkansas after meeting the love of his life. He excelled in his profession of managing retail stores and retired from Alco after 47 years of service.

Jerry loved spending time with his family, who gather often singing karaoke, celebrating birthdays and holidays.

He loved watching each one of his grandchildren in their favorite activities. He enjoyed watching baseball and old westerns. Anywho knew him would say he always had a smile for everyone. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and his strong faith.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Jody Brents; a sister, Margean Brents Ralls; a brother-in-law, Gerald Plumlee; a sister-in-law, Lorene Brents.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Doylene Tyler Brents of Russellville. His children, Gloria (Gary) Ward of Little Rock, Darla (Doug) Rogers of Russellville, Jan-

ice (Russell) Brandenburg of Taylor, Arkansas, Jerry W. (Holly) Brents, Jr. of Danville. Two sisters, Faye Plumlee of Greenbrier, and Debbie (Raymond) Wells of Wilmar, His much-loved grandchildren are Alexia Elichiry of Little Rock, Devin (Breanne) Rogers of Van Buren, Tess (Jeff) Hicks of Russellville, Paige (John) Burt of Little Rock, AR, Brice Ward of Durango, CO, Mason (Kerry) Smith of Boston, MA, Matt (Tierney) Russell of Little Rock, AR, Porscha (Kyle) Coffman of Knoxville, TN, Adaline Grace Brents of Danville, AR, Jaxson Laudis Brents of Danville, and Sage "Sam" Ward of Little Rock. His adored great-grandchildren are Kota "Bear" Shipley, Skyler Hicks, Brently Hicks, James Burt, Jace Russell, Avery Rogers, and soon to be Bennett Russell and Addison Rogers, as well as many other beloved family members.

The funeral service was at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 12, 2021, at Harris Chapel, with the Reverend Kyle Coffman officiating. Burial followed at Brents Cemetery.

Pallbearers were his grandsons and grandson-in-laws Devin Rogers, Mason Smith, Matt Russell, Kyle Coffman, Jaxson Brents, and Jeff Hicks.

Lillian Fern Emerson

On Friday, February 5th, 2021, as the sun was setting, Lillian Fern Emerson, at the age of 84, entered the gates of Heaven and began walking down streets of gold. Though, in the end, her body was frail and tired, her memory sadly diminished, her spirit, her love for God, never wavered. She anxiously awaited her journey to join her beloved husband, Bryce Emerson, and finally worship at the feet of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her mission in life was simple, fulfill God's Great Commission. As she stated on her 80th birthday, "I want God to use me all the days of the rest of my life." Let me assure anyone curious; her mission was fulfilled.

There were few rules in grandma's house, but the number one rule was to, at all times, put God first. Many have heard the story of how Bryce asked her to marry him.

She prayed for God's will for several days before she decided to take

February 16, 2021 him up on his offer; 67 years later, I believe one would decidedly agree it was God's will. She was devoted as a wife, never leaving his side as they embarked on a journey pastoring churches, touching hearts, and changing lives.

Her proudest moments involved those spent with her family, usually around the dinner table. Fern took a lot of pride in being an amazing mother & cook.

When anyone came to visit, she would always have prepared a feast fit for a king.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bryce Emerson, and parents, Loyd & Carrie Harmon.

Fern is survived by her children Marvin & Judy, Gary & Lisa and Diane & Ron, seven grandchildren (Jeremy, Kayla, Haley, Isaac, Brian, Jennifer, Savannah), 7 great-grandchildren (Hannah, Abby, Canaan, Lily, Taylor, Landon, Brinlea), her Sisters, Lavern Emerson & Viva Phillips (Clarence), and many extended family and friends.

A private ceremony was held at Roller-McNutt in Clinton, Arkansas, on Monday, February 8, 2021, at 2:00 pm, with immediate family only; graveside service immediately followed at Pee Dee Cemetery. A Celebration of Life to be held at a later date, pending public health issues.

Mom, Grandma, Fern, we promise to cherish forever your words found in a letter to us following your passing. "Any of you that haven't, give your heart to Jesus and meet us in Heaven. This includes all in-laws and mothers, daddies of grandchildren and great-grandchildren & anyone else & everyone. Meet us there. Love you Love you Love you.

Linna Faye McDonald

Linna Inize ''Faye'' McDonald, 89, of Zion Hill, departed this earth on February 10, 2021.

Those waiting to greet her as she entered Heaven were her husband of 68 years, Berlie McDonald. Her parents; Alvin & Ocia (Walker) Pack, her daughter, Patsy Duncan, a son, Bobby McDonald, a grandson, Matthew Beck, a great-granddaughter, Mavis Van Dusen, her brother, Dennis Pack, sisters, Oklia Yarber, Tressie Bedford, Jew-

ell Boyd, Wray Lawson, and three infant sisters.

Mom took pride in keeping a tidy house and a beautiful flower garden.

All enjoyed her homemade pies, cakes, and dinner rolls. She loved to sit on the front porch and visit with family & friends.

Left to cherish her memory are her brother; James (Juanita) Pack of Roland, Oklahoma, sons; Charles McDonald of Russellville, Arkansas; Darrell McDonald of Zion Hill, Arkansas; Harold (Sandy) McDonald of Alread, Arkansas, her daughter, Eunice (Ronnie) Beck of Zion Hill, Arkansas. Her thirteen grandchildren, twenty-nine great-grandchildren, and thirteen great-great-grandchildren.

Visitation was on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm at Roller McNutt Funeral Home, Clinton, Arkansas. Funeral services followed at noon with interment at Zion Hill Cemetery at 2:00 pm. Any changes in service dates or times due to inclement weather will be announced before the service.

To express online condolences, visit; www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton.

Peggy Brown McCool

Peggy Brown McCool, 77, of Damascus, went to be with the Lord on Friday, February 5, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, Doyce S. and Helen Irene Wittick Brown.

Peggy is survived by her husband of 48 years, Bill McCool, son, Mark McCool (Kim), brother, Robert Brown (Judy), nephews, Paul K. Brown, Keith Brown (Yanru), great-nephews, Clint, Caleb, and Alex Brown, and one greatniece, Kelsey Brown.

Peggy was a First Baptist Church member in Damascus and was a retired schoolteacher of thirty-eight years.

She enjoyed bird watching and flowers and was a member of the Day Lily Club. Peggy will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

A graveside service was at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at Spires Cemetery in Damascus, Arkansas, with Brother Daniel Williams and Brother Keith Brown officiating.

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

February 16, 2021

Page 5

Wedding Shower to honor Christina Allen and Cade Brown There will be a come and go wedding shower on Saturday March 6, 2021, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm to honor Christina and Cade.

The shower will be held at 17050 Highway

65 South in Damascus, directly the road from John Deere.

If guess feel more comfortable they can wear a mask or drive by and leave a gift.

Hostesses will be,

Kathy Davis, Keri Edwards, Sandra Edwards, Peggy Eoff, Jami Fooshee, Brenda Linn, Kallie Linn, Dapple Eoff McCraken, Shannon Riner and Susan Stacks.

es and capital improveCounsel ment costs at Ozark from page 1 Health Medical Center.”

Nearly 60% of Van Buby Van Buren County ren County voters reofficials and OHI to sup- jected the tax issue on port a ¼% sales tax on the November ballot. the March primary elecAt its regular Jantion ballot that would uary meeting, The Van exclusively benefit OHI. Buren County Quorum That issue failed to gar- Court unanimously apner support from a ma- proved an acknowljority of Van Buren edgment of accepting County voters. the Legislative Audit inAfter the failure of to the minutes. Before the ¼% sales tax is- the vote, County Judge sue in March, OHI lob- Dale James noted to bied Van Buren Coun- the court that there was ty voters for a ½% sales “one major finding” in tax increase on the No- the audit. James statvember general election ed to the court, “I spoke ballot that would again with [Prosecuting Attorexclusively benefit OHI. ney] Carol Crews before Revenue generated by the meeting. She said if this sales tax would you have any questions have been used “for about that finding, just funding operation and give her a call at any maintenance expens- time.”

OHI CEO David Deaton also appeared before the Quorum Court at its regular January meeting, as previously reported in The Voice. Remarking on the financial report for its fiscal year that concluded June 30, 2020, Deaton noted that OHI earnings before depreciation & amortization amounted to a net profit of $922,410.

Ozark Health Incorporated is a privately owned 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that has held tax-exempt status since August of 1988. Its gross patient revenues for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2020, were $28,383,288.

K9 face to face. from page 1 The Policeman asked him if there was ounces) of marijuana anything in the car that and THC gummies were he needed to know seized. about, and Everhart In another traffic looked down and restop, Terry's nose once plied, "No." When quesagain proved invalu- tioning Everhart, the ofable. Around 8:00 pm ficer noted, "He couldn't on February 2, 2021, keep eye contact with an officer was sitting me, and his Carotid Arat United Transmission tery started jumping out facing Northbound, ob- of his neck." serving traffic, when he K9 "Terry" was desaw a silver passen- ployed for a free air sniff ger car traveling south of the vehicle. "I starton US Highway 65 ap- ed Terry at the drivpearing not to have a li- er's side headlamp of cense plate due to the the car and worked plate lamp not work- counterclockwise. Tering. He initiated a traffic ry showed a drastic stop on a 2001 Chrys- change in breathing beler Sebring at the Alon havior "Fast to slow" at station in Choctaw. He the vehicle's door and contacted the driver, then made a final alert James Everhart, and by sitting and pointing advised him of who he his nose to the driver's was and why the traffic door." The officer statstop occurred. The of- ed. ficer's statement said, He put K9 Officer "Everhart appeared to Terry back in his patrol be too nervous while I vehicle, spoke to Mr. was speaking to him." Everhart again, and adHe asked Everhart to vised him of the K9 alert. exit the vehicle so that Everhart looked down he could talk with him and informed the officer

that he had a small plastic bag of "Marijuana" somewhere inside the vehicle and that there were a few little "corner bags of Meth" in the pockets of his dirty jeans in the back seat, along with "Dirty Syringes."

During the vehicle search, three clear plastic bags with a crystal-like substance was found in the back seat along with two syringes with a clear liquid inside and an open container of alcohol "McCormick Vodka." A clear plastic bag that contained a green leafy substance was inside of Everhart's jeans that he was wearing. Everhart was transported to the Van Buren County Detention Center, where fingerprinted for Possession of a Controlled Substance "Felony," Possession of a Controlled Substance "Misd," Possession of Drug Paraphernalia "Felony," Open Container, Defective Equipment, and No Insurance.

After being fingerprinted, Everhart was released due to the Covid-19 restrictions.

Ten grams of suspected Methamphetamines and four grams of Marijuana was seized during the traffic stop.

Sudoku Solution

The CALL in Van Buren County Volunteer Team gathered recently in their new space for the first time. (From left to right) Kerri Jones, Ronnie Jones, Dr. Daniel Clark, Kristen Tucker, James Tucker, Renee Burroughs, Rebecca Prevost, Hannah Williams, Morgan Antie, and Hannah Rhoda

Until There Are No More Children Waiting - The CALL in Van Buren County

by Jeff Stansbery mous donor offered to that will be offered in

The CALL in Van Buren County is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that recruits, trains, and supports Christian foster families in our community. Their mission is to educate, equip, and encourage the Christian community to provide a future and hope for foster care children.

In Van Buren County, volunteers completely staff the CALL. They do not accept any government money. Local individuals, businesses, and church mission partners completely fund the organization. The CALL in Van Buren County has successfully raised $15,000 to purchase a building at 268 Main Street on Clinton's square, formerly the North Central Baptist Association's location.

It is refreshing to know there are folks committed to caring about our youth and children in foster care's well-being by providing support and guidance during these trying times.

"We are thankful to the churches, businesses, and citizens of Van Buren County, and we believe this center will benefit generations of families for years to come, right here in our community," said County Coordinator James Tucker.

While visiting Kristen Tucker, Communications Coordinator, I learned, "An anony-

match donations up to $2500 for January, February, and March 2021." Tucker stated, "The community has generously made this support center possible. We had planned to raise enough to purchase the building and then make necessary changes gradually, as we could afford them.

This incredible matching offer puts renovations and building updates within reach much sooner than we ever could have hoped or expected."

"This matching offer came as a wonderful surprise," said Mr. Tucker. "To be able to make these building repairs and updates now rather than later will help facilitate a faster opening and will prevent future interruptions to service that would likely happen if we were to renovate later after we open."

"We are very excited about this space," said fundraising and communications coordinator Kristen Tucker. "This Support Center will often be the first place children are brought after they have been removed from their home. We hope to create a clean, bright, fresh, and peaceful space for these children in their moments of greatest need."

"Van Buren County foster families must now drive an hour each way to receive even just a few of the resources

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Crossword Solution

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the Support Center," said Tucker. "Caseworkers must now host biological family visits in the DCFS office or at a playground if weather permits. This center will change all of that!

The Support Center will be a place where foster families can come and "shop" free of charge for clothing, diapers, formula, beds, cribs, and other necessities. The center will have a visitation room where biological families can spend meaningful time with their children in a home-like setting. An observation window will allow for necessary DCFS supervision while giving families the sense of privacy required to have a quality visit with their children. A kitchen will enable families to enjoy simple meals together.

The meeting space will host life celebrations like birthday parties in a safe and neutral setting, allowing biological families to be present for those important moments.

They hope the new center will be open sometime in May. "We would love to have The CALL Support Center open as soon as possible," said future Support Center Coordinator Morgan Antie, a local volunteer for The CALL. "Not only will it be wonderful to greatly expand our services to foster families and children in care, but this center will also provide an opportunity for everyday people in our area to be the hands and feet of Jesus as they serve these kids and families."

The CALL met their $2500 matching goal for January and has raised $1,625 of their $2500 goal for February.

To donate and help them reach their matching goals for February and March, text "CALLHomeVBC" to 41444 or mail your donation to The CALL, PO Box 881, Clinton, AR 72031.

You may also reach The CALL with any questions and register for their next Online Information Meeting at 6 pm Thursday, March 11, 2021, by emailing VanBurenCounty@TheCALLinArkansas.org or by calling (501)2517331.

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 6

February 16, 2021

George Counts, the founder of Clinton, traveled 2400 miles by wagon to be a California 49er.

Courtesy of the Mariposa 10, 1849, Traveled 15 County, CA historical society miles. We saw a "Dog

In the February 9, 2021, edition of the Voice, we wrote about George and Malinda Counts, who historians credit with establishing Clinton, Arkansas, in 1842. Their original 40-acre homestead later became the town of Clinton.

This abridged final installment from George Counts' journey to California to become a 49er on March 23, 1849, follows.

Wagon left home at Clinton, Arkansas, on March 23, and S. P. Grigg's, the 24th, and George Counts, on March 28, 1849.

On Sunday, April 29, 1849, we rested and had a sermon by Parson [A. B.] Bates.

Monday, April 30, 1849, we traveled 16 miles. We crossed a beautiful creek of limestone water and camped in a prairie with groves of timber.

Tuesday, May 1, 1849, we traveled 15 miles partly over good land and camped.

On Wednesday, May 2, 1849, We traveled 16 miles over good prairie upland, crossed a little muddy creek, and camped.

On Thursday, May 3, 1849, Traveled 18 miles. We camped at Choteau's old trading post, which stood on an elevated part of a large, rich prairie-used old gate post for fuel.

We marked 218 miles from Fort Smith.

Friday, May 4, 1849, we traveled 10 miles and experienced Northerner - as cold as November. We camped at a branch all wet and cold.

Saturday, May 5, 1849, we remained in camp all day - to repair guns, etc.

Sunday, May 6, 1849, we rested and had a sermon by J. B. Annis.

Monday, May 7, 1849, we traveled 11 miles over level prairie.

Tuesday, May 8, 1849, we traveled 12 miles over the prairie.

Wednesday, May 9, 1949, we traveled 14 miles. We camped without wood and cooked with chips.

There is rich land here.

Thursday, May

Town." We camped at wood and water.

On Friday, May 11, 1849, we traveled 14 miles and crossed the Canadian South Fork at Spring Valley. We camped on an elevated prairie ridge in a thunderstorm. We had wood and water plenty.

Saturday, May 12, 1849, we traveled 18 miles over the prairie with here and there a high mound rising majestically in it. We camped on the South of the road in wood and water.

Sunday, May 13, 1849, we rested and had a sermon by Parson Tatimore.

Monday, May 14, 1849, we traveled 19 miles. We camped at a creek running South and had plenty of wood and then a thunder storm.

Tuesday, May 15, 1849, we traveled 15 miles. We crossed three small streams.

Passed insight of the False Wachita [River] We camped and found wood and water.

Wednesday, May 16, 1849, we traveled 16 miles. We crossed a small stream of water—sew hills with izing [sic] glass. We camped at wood and water.

Thursday, May 17, 1849, we traveled 14 miles and camped to the right of the road.

We crossed a short distance today up a small creek in the morning.

Friday, May 18, 1849, and traveled about 20 miles.

We came to South Fork of the Canadian and turned up and camped. Three of our company being lost, guns were discharged, and they came in.

Saturday, May 19, 1849, we traveled 16 miles. Left the river on our right - passed some high mounds a Buffalo was killed Camped - found wood and water.

Sunday, May 20, 1849, we rested and had a sermon by Parson [A. B.] Bates.

Monday, May 21, 1849, we traveled 18 miles over rolling prairie. Camped at a Sandy Creek - Wa-

This photo shows Sheriff Doyce Casinger with the bottle of strychnine poison Lonnie Robbins used to murder his mail-ordered bride in 1948

Remembering Doyce Casinger

George Counts founder of Clinton, Arkansas ter standing in holes saw sandhills on North side of the river.

Tuesday, May 22, 1849, we traveled 15 miles in the morning. Crossed a large stream with but little water in it and at noon crossed the Canadian's dried fork.

Wednesday, May 23, 1849, Traveled 16 miles. We camped near the mouth of a clear creek of water.

The hills on the Northside of the river have assumed an impossible appearance today.

Thursday, May 24, 1849, Traveled 18 miles. We passed several sandhills and camped at a spring of water where we found wood. We have been traveling up on the Southside of the river.

Friday, May 25, 1849, [Entry missing!]

Saturday, May 26, 1849, we traveled 12 miles and camped at a small stream of water - wood and grass were scarce; Our "Inquirer" reported none short of 8 miles. In the morning, we left the river - crossed the hills at the winding. I started at noon found water standing in holes.

Green Barnes killed an antelope.

Sunday, May 26, 1849, we rested and had a sermon by A. J. Annis.

On August 6, 1849, just west of Guadalupe Pass in the Cordilleras Mountains of New Mexico, a division of what started from Clinton, Arkansas, on

Linnual Doyce Casinger was born December 9, 1913, in Scotland, Arkansas, to Richard Jefferson and Josephine Williams Casinger.

He married Ima Jeanne Rogers on June 1, 1935, in Scotland, and they celebrated more than fifty years together. They raised two sons and one daughter.

Casinger was retired as a lieutenant with the Little Rock Police Department after 20 years.

Mr. Casinger was

known for being the Van Buren County Sheriff who investigated the “Mail order bride murder” of Sadie Sue Robbins. She died of strychnine poisoning within a week of marriage in 1948, and her husband, Lonnie Robbins of Scotland, was convicted.

Doyce Casinger was the county Sheriff from 1947 - 1950.

Mr. Casinger passed away on July 9, 1993, in Clinton and is at rest in Foster Cemetery near Scotland.

March 28, 1849, as the Clarksville Mining Association, 44 wagons left the train and went their separate ways under the supervision of George Counts, ‘Captain.'

On Thursday, November 30, 1849, we remained in the city all day. In the evening, I got on board a schooner to sail to Stockton.

According to my memorandum, this makes 2470 miles from Fort Smith, but I suppose it to be some farther - say 2500 miles or more.

Log ends Thursday, November 30, 1849.

Editor's note, I skipped from May to August and again to November for this publication. The complete 5300-word account of George Counts journey is on Van Buren County, Arkansas: Thanks for the Pictured is the old Jones Grocery building in Memories Facebook Shirley at Highway 16 & 9 in 1984. Preparations were underway for a new building. After the page. construction of the new store, the old building was removed.

(501) 745-8040

Where to find the Voice Austin

of Van Buren County

• The Austin Store (Inside sales)

Bee Branch

• Snappy's (Outside Rack sales)

Choctaw

• Alon Gas Station (outside rack sales) • PEH Supply (inside sales)

Clinton • • • • • • • • • • •

Assessor's Office: (inside sales) Goode's CashSaver (outside rack sales) Doublebee's Exxon (outside rack sales) Flash Market-Citgo (inside sales) Huddle House: (outside rack sales L'Attitude Bistro: (inside sales) McDonald's (outside rack sales) Ozark Health Medical Center (outside rack sales) Petit Jean Electric (outside rack sales) The Voice of Van Buren County (inside sales, outside rack sales) Western Sizzlin (inside sales)

Damascus

• Goode's CashSaver (outside rack sales)

Fairfield Bay

• Craven's - Dollar General Shopping Mall (outside rack sales) • Jack's (inside sales)

Leslie

• Misty's Conoco & Convenience (outside rack sales) • Smith's Citgo (inside sales)

Scotland

• Lowder General Store (inside sales)

Shirley

• First Service Bank (outside rack sales) • Reaves Food Store, Hwy 330 S (outside rack sales)

www.voiceofvbc.com

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 7

Fun & Games

1 Biblical woman 2 Home 3 Slippery 4 Monetary unit 5 Fibrous 6 Beautify 7 Alternative (abbr.)

8 Woodwind instrument's need 9 Root of one's emotions 10 United Parcel Service 11 Compass point 12 Title of respect 15 Scottish fabrics 20 Underground part of plants 22 Inaccuracy 26 Unpack 27 Aloft 28 Mark 29 Love squeeze 30 Cheat 31 Gets older 33 Tapestry 34 Feudal superior 35 Finished 36 Fail to keep 39 Small pigeonlike birds 40 Tell a tall tale 42 Knotted again 43 Small fruit seeds 46 Men's jewelry 48 City in Ohio 49 Struck 50 Chief ancient Philistine god 51 Representative 52 Fence of small trees 54 Replace a striker 56 Heroic tale 57 South southwest 58 Dined 59 Scarf 61 Less than two

Puzzle solutions on page 5

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?

Music Trivia Who Sang It? In 1958, He said the tears he cried for that woman are going to flood you Big River.

In 1972, They were following that River, until it joined hands with the sea.

In 1974, they said, Ole Black Water keep on rollin.

In 1980, they said, Oh Tennessee River and a Mountain Man, we get together…..

In 1992, that said Oh you couldn’t dam that River

Answers

Johnny Cash

1 Talk back 5 France & Germany river 9 Colors 13 Efficienly 14 Loaf 15 Cola company 16 Churn 17 Brief letter 18 Intense light beam 19 One who observes another person with pleasure and approval 21 Letter opening 23 ___ you! (attention getter) 24 Possess 25 Ceremony 29 Used to attract attention 30 Greeting 32 BB association 33 Aleutian 36 Company symbols 37 Bow 38 Hoop 39 Napper 40 Tender and passionate affection 41 Color that resembles the color of blood 42 Flowers of love 43 Computer screen dot 44 Grow older 45 Poetic "evening" 46 Bind 47 Tranquilize 49 Drink slowly 50 Morse code dash 53 Press with lips as sign of love 55 Written communication of information 57 Cavalry sword 60 Chicken house 62 Mature 63 Arose 64 Opposed 65 Chinese chime 66 Deprive of mother's milk 67 Was 68 Wager

Rolling Stones

DOWN

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 March 1, 2021 at 2 p.m. The drawing will be at 4 p.m.

Doobie Brothers

Across

Rules

Alabama

Weekly Crossword

Alice in Chains

February 16, 2021

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 “Where in the County...” was Pistole Gun & Pawn, 829 US-65 BUS, Clinton)

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 8

February 16, 2021

CHURCH PAGE

Photo by EuGene Smith

Thanks to those of you who called and correctly identified last week's featured church as Kaley Hill Missionary Baptist. 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

Kaley Hill Missionary Baptist, 6505 Hwy 356, Bee Branch

Pawn • Shooting Sports

VAN BUREN COUNTY PROUD 794 Highway 65B Clinton, Arkansas

Tournament Fishing Tackle

(501) 745-2581

OPEN TIL 6:00pm MON-SAT (501) 745-6991

1863 Hwy 65 South, Clinton, AR 72031

195 Highway 16 E, Clinton, AR 72031 www.garypack.com GaryPackLumber

Deb's Fashions

Fashions

OPEN M-F 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

SAT 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

debsfashionsonline.com

501.745.3901

314 Ingram St behind EXXON off Hwy 65 in Clinton

The Voice of Van Buren County

February 16, 2021

Page 9

Classifieds • Legal RESEARCH

Reflect A Moment He said, “Happy are those who make peace, for they will be sons of God!”

REAL ESTATE

LEGAL

For Sale

For Rent

For Sale: 37acres +/-.

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

9658 Hwy 16E Street Address Shirley City/Town

$74,000 501-745-8484

Small 2BR, 1BA in Leslie.

Corner of 5th and Elm close to school close to Buffalo River ********** Big yard Good for single or couple

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

Said application was filed on January 29, 2021. The undersigned states that he/ she is a resident of Arkansas, of good moral character; that he/ she has never been convicted of a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude; that no license to sell alcoholic beverages by the undersigned has been revoked within five (5) years last past; and, that the undersigned has never been convicted of violating the laws of this State, or any other State, relative to the sale of controlled beverages.

Kayen Sawrie Name of Applicant Red River Market Name of Business Sworn to before me this 3rd day of February , 2021 . /s/ Lisa Mahler Notary Public LISA MAHLER Notary Public-Arkansas Van Buren County My Commission Expires 02-17-2027 Commission# 12700189

********** $24,000 negotiable call (501) 757-1617

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

Deposit required.

Call for availability (501) 581-8640

LEGAL

NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATION FOR RETAIL BEER PERMIT OFF PREMISES Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has filed an application with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division of the State of Arkansas for a permit to sell beer at retail for consumption off the premises described as:

Chimes community, Searcy County.

MISC. FOR SALE

LEGAL

NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATIONS FOR RETAIL BEER OFF PREMISES & SMALL FARM WINE - RETAIL PERMITS Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has filed applications with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division of the State of Arkansas for permits to sell wines produced at Small Farm Wineries and beer at retail to be carried out and not consumed on the premises described as:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS FIRST DIVISION

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS FOURTH DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID LEE JOHNSON, deceased NO. 71PR-2021-7 AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS LAST KNOWN ADDRESS OF DECEDENT: 408 Sitton Place Clinton, Arkansas 72031 DATE OF DEATH: August 7, 2020 The undersigned was appointed Administrator of the estate of the above-named decedent on January 29, 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 16th day of February, 2021.

CATHERINE JOHNSON, By: /s/ Nathan 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

FOR SALE OR LEASE Shop Booth 94 at Howard's Antiques for crocheted items, knickknacks, dishes and jewelry.

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

Call 501-940-5448

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

Donnie Miller Name of Applicant Choctaw Shell Name of Business Sworn to before me this 5th day of February, 2021 Lee Ann Lewis Notary Public My Commission Expires 3/30/2023 Commilalon # 12392433

EMPLOYMENT

FL Davis Cash Lumber is looking to hire a full time small engine mechanic.

Applicants must have their own tools.

Reliability, cleanliness and the ability to meet deadlines are necessary for this position.

Call 745-8040 to place an ad in the classifieds

NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATIONS FOR RETAIL BEER OFF PREMISES & SMALL FARM WINE - RETAIL PERMITS Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has filed applications with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division of the State of Arkansas for permits to sell wines produced at Small Farm Wineries and beer at retail to be carried out and not consumed on the premises described as: 1111 US 15 Street Address Bee Branch City/Town Van Buren County Said application was filed on January 28, 2021. The undersigned states that he/ she is a resident of Arkansas, of good moral character; that he/ she has never been convicted of a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude; that no license to sell alcoholic beverages by the undersigned has been revoked within five (5) years last past; and, that the undersigned has never been convicted of violating the laws of this State, or any other State, relative to the sale of controlled beverages.

************

Donnie Miller Name of Applicant

Applications may be picked up at 160 Park Street, Clinton AR 72031

Bee Branch Snappy Mart Name of Business Sworn to before me this 5th day of February, 2021 Lee Ann Lewis Notary Public My Commission Expires 3/30/2023 Commilalon # 12392433

VS. NO. 71CV-20-134 CHEE-CHIEH T. JAN, and any unknown spouse or heirs; JOSE S. PEREZ and GLADYS A. PEREZ, husband and wife, AND The following lands in Van Buren County, Arkansas: LOT 110 BLOCK 19 LAKEWOOD ADDITION, FAIRFIELD BAY, AR RESPONDENTS NOTICE OF QUIET TITLE ACTION As required by A.C.A. § 26-38-203, et seq., notice is hereby given that a Petition has been filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk of Van Buren, Arkansas, to quiet and confirm title in the surface rights of the following described property in Van Buren County, Arkansas which was sold under the authority of Act 626 of 1983, as amended, at a public sale of tax delinquent lands after the property remained unredeemed following the expiration of the time required by law, and by Limited Warranty Deed from the Commissioner of State Lands of the State of Arkansas to Ben C. Mattocks to: LOT 110, BLOCK 19, SECTION 9-T11N-12W, LAKEWOOD ADDITION. All persons, firms, corporations, or improvement districts that can set up any right to the property so conveyed and forfeited must appear and show cause why the title to the surface of the real property should not be confirmed, quieted, and vested in the Petitioner in fee simple on or before 30 days from the first publication of this notice and assert his/her title or interest in said property and to demonstrate why title to this property should not be quieted and confirmed in Petitioner.

If no one has so appeared within the time allowed by law, then the Petition shall be taken as confessed and the Court shall render a final decree confirming said sale.

/s/ Debbie Gray DEBBIE GRAY VAN BUREN COUNTY CIRCUIT CLERK

Clinton City/Town

DUPLEXES FOR RENT

BEN C. MATTOCKS PETITIONER

WITNESS my hand and seal of the Court this 7th day of December, 2020.

First Published: 01-05-2021

489 Hwy 655 Street Address

Van Buren County Said application was filed on January 28, 2021. The undersigned states that he/ she is a resident of Arkansas, of good moral character; that he/ she has never been convicted of a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude; that no license to sell alcoholic beverages by the undersigned has been revoked within five (5) years last past; and, that the undersigned has never been convicted of violating the laws of this State, or any other State, relative to the sale of controlled beverages.

LEGAL

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS FIRST DIVISION VENABLE PROPERTIES, LLC PETITIONER VS. NO. 71CV-20-136 CARL D. BUSBY and ELGIE BUSBY, husband and RESPONDENTS

/s/ Olivia Gilmore

BY Olivia Gilmore D.C. Prepared by: Melanie Beltran Attorney at Law Sprott, Golden & Bardwell PO Box 1155 184 Griggs St. Clinton, AR 72031 (501) 745-3111 office melanie@arkansaslawpartners.com

Wife; JIMMY MCENTIRE and NELLIE MCENTIRE, husband and wife; and MANUELL RODRIGUEZ LAND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY and any other interested parties, unknown spouses, heirs, successors, or assigns of the named parties herein; AND The following lands in Van Buren County, Arkansas: LOT 12; LEWIS SUGARLOAF; FAIRFIELD BAY, ARKANSAS NOTICE OF QUIET TITLE ACTION As required by A.C.A. § 26-38-203, et seq., notice is hereby given that a Petition has been filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk of Van Buren, Arkansas, to quiet and confirm title in the surface rights of the following described property in Van Buren County, Arkansas which was sold under the authority of Act 626 of 1983, as amended, at a public sale of tax delinquent lands after the property remained unredeemed following the expiration of the time required by law, and by Limited Warranty Deed from the Commissioner of State Lands of the State of Arkansas to Venable Properties, LLC to: LOT 12; LEWIS SUGARLOAF; FAIRFIELD BAY, ARKANSAS. All persons, firms, corporations, or improvement districts that can set up any right to the property so conveyed and forfeited must appear and show cause why the title to the surface of the real property should not be confirmed, quieted, and vested in the Petitioner in fee simple on or before 30 days from the first publication of this notice and assert his/her title or interest in said property and to demonstrate why title to this property should not be quieted and confirmed in Petitioner.

If no one has so appeared within the time allowed by law, then the Petition shall be taken as confessed and the Court shall render a final decree confirming said sale.

WITNESS my hand and seal of the Court this 15th day of December, 2020. /s/ Debbie Gray DEBBIE GRAY VAN BUREN COUNTY CIRCUIT CLERK /s/ Olivia Gilmore

BY Olivia Gilmore D.C. Prepared by: Melanie Beltran Attorney at Law Sprott, Golden & Bardwell PO Box 1155 184 Griggs St. Clinton, AR 72031 (501) 745-3111 office melanie@arkansaslawpartners.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS FIRST DIVISION ROGER WILEY AND TINA WILEY PLAINTIFFS VS. No. 71CV-21-11 CHRISTOPHER RAND, EQUITY TRUST COMPANY AS CUSTODIAN FBO CHRISTOPHER RAND SEPIRA, ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY LEGAL OR EQUITABLE RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, OR ANY CLOUD ON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE THERETO: THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED LANDS: LOT 38, ISLAND AT CHOCTAW BAY SUBDIVISION VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS, AS SHOWN REVISED PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 7, PAGE 91 THROUGH 98, RECORDS OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS DEFENDANTS NOTICE OF QUIET TITLE ACTION AND CONFIRMATION Notice is hereby given that a Petition has been filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk of Van Buren County, Arkansas, to quiet and confirm title in and to the following described property in Van Buren County, Arkansas: LOT 38, ISLAND AT CHOCTAW BAY SUBDIVISION VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS, AS SHOWN REVISED PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 7, PAGE 91 THROUGH 98, RECORDS OF VAN BUREN COUNTY, ARKANSAS Any person claiming any title or interest of any kind to said property is hereby notified to appear on or before 30 days from the first publication of this notice to assert his/her title or interest in said property and to demonstrate why title to this property should not be quieted and confirmed in Plaintiffs.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court this 15th day of February, 2021.

VAN BUREN COUNTY CLERK BY _____________________________ DC

Page 10

North Arkansas

Bull Shoals Lake

The Army Corps of Engineers reported the lake's elevation at 658.89 feet MSL (regular conservation pool: 659.00 feet MSL). The reported lake elevation at Table Rock Lake was 914.94 feet MSL (regular conservation pool: 915.00 feet MSL).

Norfork Lake

The Army Corps of Engineers reported the lake's elevation at 553.91 feet MSL (regular conservation pool: Sept.-April, 553.75 feet MSL; April-Sept.

555.75 feet MSL).

Norfork Tailwater

John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service in Cotter (870-4352169) said Norfork Lake rose 0.6 foot to rest at 0.5 foot above the seasonal power pool of 553.75 feet MSL and 25.7 feet below the top of the flood pool. The Norfork tailwater had little if any wadable water.

All of the White River System lakes are now below or at the power pool, and the tailwaters should receive wadable water shortly. The Norfork tailwa-

The Voice of Van Buren County

Fishing Report

ter is fishing well. Navigate this stream with caution as things have changed a bit during recent flooding. There has been significant gravel recruitment at the bottom of Mill Pond and the dock hole. The most productive flies have been small midge patterns (sizes 18, 20, 22) like ruby midges, root beer midges, zebra midges (black or red with silver wire and silver bead), and soft hackles (sizes 14, 16) like the Green Butt.

Egg patterns have also been productive. Double-fly nymph rigs have been very useful. Try a pheasant tail size 14 with a root beer midge dropper. "My wife, Lori, did well recently with an olive Woolly Bugger. The fishing is better in the morning," John said.

Dry Run Creek is fishing well. There is less pressure with the colder weather. The Norfork National Fish Hatchery is open, but the restrooms are still closed. The hot flies have been sowbugs (size 14), Y2Ks (size 12), various colored San Juan worms (worm brown, red, hot fluorescent pink, and cerise size 10), mop flies, and egg patterns.

Buffalo National River/Crooked Creek

John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service in Cotter (870435-2169) said the Buffalo National River and Crooked Creek are navigable. With the cooler temperatures, the bite has slowed.

John's favorite fly is a Clouser minnow. Carefully check the water level before entering Crooked Creek or the Buffalo River. There are no dams on these streams. They both have large drainages and are prone to flooding during and following any rain event. The water can rise very quickly.

Northwest Arkansas

Beaver Lake

The Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake's elevation at 1,120.09 feet MSL (normal conservation pool: 1,120.43 feet MSL).

Southtown Sporting Goods (479-4437148) said stripers are good on brood minnows at the deep end of the lake. Walleye are biting well below the dam.No reports on bream. Crappie is excellent and being found deeper this week, in 1015 feet depth; use min-

nows or jigs and work around the brush piles.

Black Bass is fair, with crankbaits and jigs working best—still no reports on catfish. The lake clarity is clear, and the surface temperature is mid-to-high 40s.

The level is average.

Beaver Tailwater Guide Austin Kennedy (479-244-0039) says fishing has been consistent this past week with the trout bite.

Since the Army Corps of Engineers has two floodgates open a foot, it may be difficult to fish from the shore. However, if you're fishing from a boat, you may do a little better. The trout have been biting on various Fire baits, fished with light terminal tackle. Throwing spoons and hard baits have also produced some nice fish. The water temp is still around 43 degrees in most of the river. This week's hotspot has been around the Spider Creek area. Just remember to watch out for the hidden structures if you decide to go up that way. While the water is flowing, try fishing the slack water around the structure to locate the trout.

You can also try to driftfish as well, just downsize your weight, and you should do just fine.

If you get out this weekend, bundle up, it may be quite chilly. Good luck, stay safe and catch some fish!

Lake Fayetteville

(updated 2-112021) Lake Fayetteville Boat Dock (479444-3476) is temporarily closed.

Lake Sequoyah

Lake Sequoyah Boat Dock (479-4443475) said that the lake has cleared up and

is normal. Crappie is good using minnows and jigs. Black Bass are good on spinnerbaits and crankbaits. No reports on bream or catfish.

Northeast Arkansas

Lake Charles

Shelly Jeffrey at Lake Charles State Park (870-878-6595) said anglers should match jig colors to water conditions for best results at Lake Charles.

If the water is slightly stained, she recommends trying jigs in the colors Refrigerator White, Pepper Shad, and Glimmer Blue. You should go with Tuxedo Black/chartreuse, Electric Chicken and Cajun Cricket in dirty, muddy water. She notes that the best days to fish based on the moon cycle runs Feb. 8-14.

On Monday, the surface temperature in the morning was 46 degrees. The water is low, but now with waterfowl season completed and Lake Charles' water not needed for Shirey Bay/ Rainey Brake flooding, look for water to pick up. Clarity is murky.

There were not reported catches this past week.

Lake Poinsett

At Lake Poinsett's gate at the dam was closed on Dec. 1, allowing the lake to begin refilling with rainwater. The lake, at Lake Poinsett State Park, has been undergoing a three-year renovation with a new water control structure, more than 10,000 linear feet of shoreline work, more than 100 habitat structures placed on the lakebed, and nearly 100 trees anchored for

February 16, 2021

fish habitat with more anchoring in the plans as the lake begins to refill.

When the lake has enough water for stocking, channel catfish will be stocked to give anglers target fish to seek, while prey fish such as shiners and shad will be stocked. After the prey fish have established a base over the next year or so, predator fish such as largemouth bass and crappie will then be stocked.

Crown Lake

Boxhound Marina (870-670-4496) remains closed until further notice "due to unforeseen circumstances." However, they are still accepting RV and cabin reservations.

Spring River

Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-9558300) said water levels are flowing at 360 CFS, which is about average flow. Water clarity the last few weeks has had a heavy green stain to it. It's normal for the Spring to have a heavy tint to it, making for less spooky fish.

On the fly lately, eggs and Woolly Buggers work great on days the bite is on. On the slow days, nymphing has been hot. About a size 14 hare's ear or pheasant tail will do the trick. An extra nymph as dropper can help.

During this time of year, slowing the presentation down can work great. A big indicator with a White Lightning/ big white fly on a jig hook, fished about 3-4 feet below the indicator, works great when fishing those deeper green pools.

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The Voice of Van Buren County

February 16, 2021

February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Betsy Bramlett February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fancis Munn February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gail Watson February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gerald Coogan, Jr. February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ida Holt February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jake Shipp February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Cannaday February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Lowder February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Hamilton February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nina Duncan February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Baugus Bradford February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Randy Thomas February 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Signe Rushing February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brandy Nance February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cody Hiland February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jared Mc Daniel February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jed Privitt February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jill Ward February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Mcghee February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leon Emerson February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parker Williams February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Raymond Keck February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ricky Wright February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tawny Long February 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trina Jones February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bonnie Brighton February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dewey Bohannon February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doug Brown

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February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . Jasper Harer Burgess February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Khristian Rico February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kim Bramlett February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Sue Smart February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reid Hensley February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Riley McDaniel February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert Williams February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shasta Kempson February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Styles Booher February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adam McJunkins February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brandy Cullum February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charity Ellius February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jay Feagley February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth Loeshner February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kristie Felton February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marx Mitchell February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Wilson February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mason Linn February 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Dollahites February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brandi Gann February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clell Lewis February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crystal Sigler February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Ryan February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeremy Olson February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathy Barger February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marty Fields February 20 . . . . . . . . . . Rose Michelle Woosley February 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Willie Wilkinson

Page 11

February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Art Sluder February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chad Brown February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan Prout February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danet Snow February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diana Huie February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eugene Rooney February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jackie Crow February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Coward February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Bressett February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Morton Rana February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sara Bowden February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Skylar Long February 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Nunley February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charles A. Wilburs February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connie Bett February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Cullum February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deward Jackson February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jesse Jackson February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joyce Bramlett February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lyda Jones February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marlene Rollins February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patricia Walker February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rick Johnson February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandra Thomas February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Willeford February 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wendy Anderson

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The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 12

Selma and Cliff Mitchell in their beautiful garden.

February 16, 2021

Audrey Raines garden spans the front yards length

Master Gardeners February - We Noticed Awards

by Bertha Christensen Selma and Cliff have or the fish. Selma pro- just fell open in disbe- It was fenced and ter- is no exception. Thank

The Van Buren County Master Gardeners were out on Sunday on patrol for the 'We Noticed' program.

We had a great plan, armed with nominations and ready to visit the gardens. Well, there was no answer at one place, and we rescheduled the second one for Tuesday. So, we spontaneously stopped by a house that we had noticed....and were we surprised.!! We had noticed the roses that Selma and Cliff Mitchell of Fairfield Bay have surrounding their front yard. We were surprised to see a fully landscaped and beautiful back yard as well.

lived in their house since 1999. They usually winter in southern Texas, but this year they stayed home. This lovely couple invited us in from the cold and shared their garden and stories of how the garden has changed over the years. One story was about a large pond and waterfall that was in the front yard. They had stocked it with fish, but the fish kept disappearing. They could see no evidence of who or what was taking the fish. Finally, one sunny day they caught a glimpse of a snake living under the waterfall. He had been having a feast. They no longer have that pond

vided pictures of what the yard looked like in the summer. Walking out the back door, we stood on a large, covered deck, overlooking the garden and the birds happily enjoying the bird feeders. They have done a lot of work, and that deck is a perfect place to sit and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Congratulations on a job well done.

The second recipient of the 'We Noticed' award is Audrey Raines of Bee Branch. Donna Ozment nominated her. We drove and drove, and then nearly at the end of the road, we found heaven. This was one of those places where our mouths

lief. She started to build this house in 2008, and it finished in 2010. That is when she began the yard. There is a beautiful picket fence in the front yard that is the backdrop to a flower garden that spans the front yard's length. At the end and just outside the picket fence is an exceptionally large rock. Audrey has used this rock as the floor of a little sitting spot; its little garden surrounded that. In the back of the house, there was a spectacular view of the valley. To one side, there was a shade garden with arbor entrances and a stone walkway. Then there was her vegetable garden.

raced. She had blueberries, raspberries, figs, blackberries, muscadine grapes, and much, much more. She planted it partially so that her grandchildren could come and enjoy it. She also has a hothouse, where she has lettuce ready to eat and has started many other things. One of the most amazing things to me is that she is a single lady who has done most of this work by herself.

She is an inspiration to me. One other thing was that she had put together a slide show of her yard for our enjoyment. That was so special. I feel like gardeners are some of the nicest people, and Audrey

you so much for making us feel so welcome in your piece of heaven.

Many gardens won't be this large, but even the small ones are special. We are running low on nominations, so please consider sending me a message with your nominee.

Please send it to birdies_nest2004@yahoo.com. It can be a large yard, or a small flower bed, or even some nicely trimmed trees. If you enjoy it, then we will also enjoy it. I would enjoy seeing the ones in different parts of the county on roads that we would never think of going down.

Some of our FCCLA members passed out sweet treats to the High School students last week.

These students were recognized at Clinton Elementary for working hard and exhibiting great The special message reads “you are loved beSTING behavior! We are so proud of you Coy, Alexis and Wyatt! yond measure”.

Send your favorite food recipe Email

voiceeditor@artelco.com

Are you proud of your Hornets and Blue Devils?

The Voice welcomes photographs of sporting events from local schools.

To share, email voiceeditor@artelco.com