The Voice of Van Buren County - March 2, 2021 by The Voice of Van Buren County

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Donald Privitt

TUESDAY, March 2, 2021 / Vol. 7 Issue 9 / 75 cents

Pictured are Councilors Ward and Barnes at Tuesday's meeting.

Gayla Bradley - Why would we not get as much as we can? If the maximum allowed by state law is ten, why would we settle with five?

Clinton Council Doubles Proposed Tax On Adult Beverages During The Second Reading by Warren Johnson

On the second reading of an ordinance for on-premises consumption of adult beverages, Clinton Councilors voted to raise a proposed luxury tax from five to ten percent. During the public comments section of the meeting, Adam Kuipers stated, "The legislation you presented last month doesn't demonstrate a need for additional revenue for the city from what I could tell. The tax would go into the general fund." Kuipers continued, "The city had a surplus budget last year. You gave everybody a dollar an hour raise in the city, and you gave yourselves a raise because of the surplus." He continued, "That's

due in part to the fact the water department is carrying itself now because customers are paying significantly more on their bills since last year." He stated, "Now we want to tax an industry that the State of Arkansas has not been treating right over the past ten months during the pandemic. The hospitality industry has suffered the most at the hands of the State of Arkansas. When you factor in the nine percent, we already pay and add the additional tax you are proposing, now we are up to nineteen percent on a mixed drink or beer in a restaurant. The State also levies a tax on these drinks, ranging from ten to fourteen percent depending upon the purchased

drink. The taxes combined come to somewhere between twenty-nine to thirty-four percent, and the restaurants are limited to sixty-six percent of capacity. Since you have a surplus in your budget, maybe you shouldn't target an industry which has already suffered so much." Councilor Jeff Pistole responded, "We only have one restaurant in the city that currently sells alcohol. We have done two things. We have added a tax to on-premises alcohol sales, and we have also passed an ordinance to allow restaurants to sell beverages without being a private club." Pistole contin-

ued, "Private Clubs have to buy their alcohol from package stores. They currently have to pay full retail in addition to all of the surcharges and taxes, under our plan that goes away. They can stay where they are and purchase from a wholesale distributor eliminating the retail tax." Pistole said, "They will be better off, I believe, when the dust settles." Councilor Gayla Bradley added, "It is our role to run the city as efficiently and financially sound as we can." She said, "Why would we not get as much as we can? If the maximum allowed by state law is ten perSee Tax on page 2

Prosecuting Attorney Carol Crews to Clark, “It could be a civil liability.”

Illegal Payments for Ozark Health Under Investigation by Adam Kuipers

An unusually short Quorum Court meeting was largely spent discussing Ozark Health Incorporated questions and the illegal payments made by Van Buren County to NOACON Incorporated for work performed there, as previously reported in The Voice. Roy Clark requested an audience with the Court at Thursday's meeting and praised the County Road Department's work during the winter storm before referencing an article in the Feb 16, 2021, issue of The Voice. Mr. Clark asked, "Is that article accu-

rate as best the Court can determine? Are there any inaccuracies in that report related to the hospital?" Judge James referred the questions to Prosecuting Attorney Carol Crews, who said that, while she didn't know if she had read the entire article, her office did receive the Legislative Audit and was reviewing it as they do all the audits for Van Buren, Faulkner, and Searcy Counties. Crews said that upon the completion of the review by her office, she would comSee Quorum Court on page 2

Seat Belt Violation Yields Crystal and Green Leafy Substances On Thursday, February 11, 2021, at approximately 4:50 in the afternoon, Sheriff Lucas Emberton was patrolling US Highway 65 South close to the Damascus area. While on patrol, Sheriff Emberton made a traffic stop for a seat belt violation. During the traffic stop, the vehicle driver could not produce required documents, such as a driver's license, stating, "he didn't have it with him." The driver then provided Sheriff Emberton his name and date of birth. Sheriff Emberton was suspicious of the name he was given because he was extremely nervous and unsure of simple questions the Sheriff asked while speaking with him. Sheriff Emberton was then able to determine the driver's identity as a Mr. Paul Lovell who had warrants for his arrest. At that time, Chief Deputy Randy Churches

Allie Hensley of Clinton is the Indoor conference CHAMPION!

Hensley Wins Pentathlon and Moves Up to Second in School History!!

Brooke Bradford

Brooke Bradford Named Miss Arkansas Collegiate Lovell began a search on Mr. Lovell while Sheriff Emberton spoke with him. A white crystal-like substance, believed to be methamphetamine, weighing approximately 19.2 grams, was found on Mr. Lovell's person. The vehicle was then searched, and approximately 24.7 grams of suspected marijuana along with an unknown amount of suspected THC wax was located in the center console of the driver's vehicle. At that time, Mr. Lovell was arrested and transported to the Van Buren County Detention Center for booking.

Brooke Bradford, a Freshman at the University of Arkansas and a 2020 graduate of Clinton High School, was named 2021 Miss Arkansas Collegiate at their recent state competition in Little Rock, Arkansas. Bradford is an Agricultural Communications and Leadership major. She will spend her year as Miss Arkansas Collegiate promoting her personal passion, which is advocating for agriculture and agriculture education. She will also endorse the pageant’s national platform, B.R.A.V.E., an acronym for Building Respect and Values for Everyone.

Bradford is looking forward to presenting both in-person or Zoom sessions on both topics, especially elementary-age students. Bradford also serves as the 20202021 Arkansas F.F.A. President. At the U of A, she is an honors student and serves on the Freshman Leader Forum. She was also appointed as a commissioner for the Governor’s Commission on Community Service and Volunteerism. Bradford will represent Arkansas at the National Collegiate America Pageant on June 19-26, 2021, at the Robinson Center in Little Rock, Arkansas.

For the second year in a row, Arkansas State track and field packed their brooms for the Birmingham CrossPlex, sweeping the 2021 Sun Belt Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships. A-State’s women dominated from start to finish, totaling a school-record 145 points to win their sixth indoor title while the men fended off surges by Texas State and Louisiana to win their ninth indoor crown with 155 points. The Red Wolves have won a combined 15 indoor Sun Belt titles and became the first team since Middle Tennessee in 2004 to earn a repeat sweep. Our women’s team came and did their job. They came and competed hard,

and I’m proud of them.” In the pentathlon, Allie Hensley took control. The Clinton, Arkansas, native won the high jump with a personal-best 1.78m (510.0), launched a personal-best 11.89m (39-0.25) in the shot put and capped off the day with a collegiate-best 2:25.79 in the 800m to win the crown. Her total of 3,875 points moved her up to second in program history in the event and 10th in the NCAA this season. “We had a lot of great performances, but that was probably one of the best,” Patchell said. “To have Camryn get hurt and out of the competition and to see her teammates step up and win it. That was fun to watch.”

The Voice of Van Buren County

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March 2, 2021

tained, at least partially, Quorum Court in that [Legislative Audit] from page 1 report, so we will review everything that's in the municate her findings Legislative Audit report." with the Legislative Audit "Is a conflict of interand the Quorum Court, est a criminal issue?" inand these findings will quired Mr. Clark. "Genbe a matter of public re- erally no," responded cord. "The only decision Crews, "in what way do that I have to make is if you mean?" "Would it there's a criminal charge be a civil liability?" Mr. that stems from the file Clark asked. "It could that's provided to me be a civil liability," replied from Legislative Audit," Crews. Crews stated. Mr. Clark continMr. Clark continued, "The Court has ued, "Did the Audit re- been paying out several quest any investigation thousand dollars. And it on the part of the Court just appeared in the aror your office?" Crews ticle, asking for more responded that the Leg- money when there are islative Audit conducts only seemingly two or their own investigation three parties that have to compile information if been involved in the there are County funds hospital over the last that, in their opinion, several years. They want were potentially used in more money, but they a way they should not show a $1 Million profit have been used, but "it that doesn't add up to a doesn't mean they al- non-profit organization. ways are." "If the Prose- I've been involved with cutor's office thinks that 501(c)(3) 's for thirty or there needs to be more forty years." of an investigation, then I Crews replied, can make that request." "without going into the Mr. Clark further details of this necessarstated, "according to the ily since it's still under inarticle; it seemed to be vestigation, I would feel that there's some con- confident in saying, genflict of interest. I know the erally speaking, the type hospital wants more tax of conflict of interest that money, and it showed you've described is not quite a profit there even a criminal offense." "But though I understand it's civil liability?" Mr. Clark a 501(c)(3), which is sup- inquired. "It could be; it posed to be a non-profit certainly could," replied organization. For some Crews. "I think the Legparties listed in the ar- islative Audit report reticle, I wonder if that is ferring for counsel is in not a conflict of inter- the civil realm, not in the est from serving on the criminal realm." Board of Governors and Referring his quesBoard positions. That's tion to Judge James, my question." Prosecu- Mr. Clark asked, "what tor Crews responded by is the Court's assessconfirming, "what you're ment of the hospital sittalking about is con- uation?" "The Court as-

sesses that it's been turned over to the Prosecutor, so it's time for us to be quiet and let the Prosecutor do their job," James responded. Affirming Judge James' statement, Prosecutor Crews added, "in the interest of the County, I think at this point, because it is under investigation, I think that Judge James is right not to comment on that particular publicly until the investigation runs its course. That would be my legal advice." JP Ester Bass asked, "Was there ever an ordinance passed to relinquish this money to Ozark Health or these companies?" Judge James responded, "there wasn't a particular ordinance, but that is pretty much what the Hospital Maintenance fund is for." "To a point, not excessive," replied Bass. "14-14-1102 says large amounts like that have to be passed by the Quorum Court." Judge James added, "Also if the County incurs a debt, the debt must be paid. This is the same issue that stems back to 2018 before I was in office, I think before you were even on the Court. It keeps resurfacing because it took a while for that to get paid off. So because those checks were written each subsequent year, it kept rearing its ugly head. So it should be behind us, I think." As the Legislative Audit noted, the lease agreement between Ozark Health Incorporated and Van Buren

County states that routine repairs and maintenance, as well as damage to or destruction of the property, are the responsibility of OHI. OHI hired NOACON and, as a private corporation, incurred debt with that construction company. OHI does not have the legal authority to incur debt on behalf of Van Buren County. JP Bass continued, "Were their bids taken?" Judge James responded, "I believe that is answered in the Legislative Audit, and that's one of the reasons why it's turned over to [Prosecutor] Carol [Crews] because bids were not taken." Bass further stated, "14-14-1102 states that there has to be a bid taken to get the job, but they're also has to be an ordinance by the Quorum Court to relinquish those monies to those companies." County Clerk Pam Bradford noted, "wouldn't that be covered in the annual budget?" Judge James said, "the ordinance that failed to run was the Sunshine ordinance because we had a contractor that was already," before interrupting himself and stating, "I'm probably saying too much; I need to just shut up about that." In other business, Judge Dale James discussed the damage at the Courthouse Annex due to a burst water pipe, as reported in last week's issue of The Voice. Judge James told the Court that most

of the damage would be covered by insurance, though the County would be required to pay for the plumber. James stated that water had been left running to prevent freezing in County facilities during the freeze. The flooding that took place was attributed to the demolition of the back wing of the older part of the former hospital. The contractor at that time capped the pipes in the ceiling, which allowed still water to sit and freeze. The plumber performing current repairs has terminated those pipes at the source to prevent similar future issues. For comparison, Judge James mentioned the Miller County Courthouse, where they estimated $15 Million in damages due to flooding from burst water pipes. In new business, the Court unanimously

adopted two ordinances. The first amended the County's catastrophic leave policy to ease restrictions for those quarantined due to Covid-19. The second ordinance appropriated money obtained from a grant to the Sheriff's Department budget for special trauma response training through the nationally recognized Stop The Bleed campaign. The remainder of the money was reimbursement from the Prosecutor's office for lodging. Four resolutions authorizing the County Judge to apply for grants were unanimously approved. If obtained, the grants would provide money for various projects, including road improvements, Senior Center Program updates, and medical supplies for Ozark Health Medical Center.

Tax vey that I didn't like how from page 1 we make some employees feel less valued than cent, why would we set- others based upon raistle with five percent?" es." Bradley said, " If you In other news, Maydon't want to pay the or McCormac spoke tax, don't get a drink." about the renovation Bradley contin- and funding needed to ued, "I don't think we begin the new City Hall have a surplus. We ha- building. McCormac ven't given our employ- said, "Cities are allowed ees the raises we be- by the State to be their lieve they should have own contractor, and and deserve for the that is what we are gopast couple of years. ing to do. However, we For us to be able to pro- need a foreman. I have vide our city employ- contacted James Reed, ees raises is what I want and he was willing and to do." Kuipers point- has begun work. Tim ed out that Bradley was Clark and I got as far as the lone Councilor who we could with demolivoted against the pay tion." McCormac conraises. In an off-cam- tinued, "I would like to era statement, Brad- free up $40,000 at this ley said, "I was in quar- meeting to get started. antine when I voted I can't see us using the against the pay raises. money in the next week There was a delay and or so, and maybe not also an echo from being before the next meeton the speakerphone. ing in three weeks, but It was hard to commu- I want to appropriate nicate, and I didn't hear money from the generthe Mayor say it would al fund to begin work on be a dollar across the City Hall." board for all employCouncilor Gayla ees. I was trying to con- Bradley asked, "Has he

told you any amount at all? Have you sat down with him?" McCormac replied, "No, and this is probably what we will be doing from now on. It's not a good time to remodel, with lumber prices being three times higher." He continued, "I've kicked numbers around. It may cost $150,000, or it may be $200,000. I don't know." The councilors voted unanimously to appropriate the funding. Reports from other departments at the Council meeting included Fire Chief D.L. Webb expressed gratitude to the community for heeding the authorities' warnings and staying off the roadways during the last week's weather event. Webb thanked the street and water departments for doing a phenomenal job and working 24 hours straight in many instances. Clinton Mayor Richard McCormac appreciated Charles Wil-

son's effort and his street department clearing city streets. McCormac recognized the Arkansas Department of transportation's work, the Van Buren County Road Department, and praised his city workers' team for clearing driveways blocked by mounds of snow from the plows. Chief Wilson praised Officer Malcolm Cambron, who followed him with his blue lights on from Clinton to Choctaw to ensure his safety while clearing the driveways. Water Chief Will Hinchey reported water loss was at thirty-four percent last month. Hinchey stated after the extreme temperatures of last week, the system is pumping enough water for Clinton, Bee Branch, and Van Buren County, but delivery has been an issue. He said the system is pumping 3.1 million gallons per day, double the average daily amounts. Hinchey stated they had a few

problems with freezing on tank controls and generators going down, which has caused some water outages, with Dennard being down the most. He said the first Dennard outage was caused by a water tank freezing up, adding water restoration occurred fairly quickly. More recently, the water pressure in the downtown Clinton area has been so low the pumps that carry water to the north could not operate. Hinchey said his crew had been working twenty-four shifts and discovered a burst fire line in the Pilgrims Pride building. Repairs made by crews restored water pressure to the system. Hinchey praised the auto-read meter software known as the beacon for alerting the central office to potential customer leaks from broken pipes. Stating the system alerted the office to water leaks amounting to losses of thirty to seventy thou-

sand gallons. Zoning Officer Tim Clark reported the Clinton Walmart would begin its remodel in April with construction work conducted by a company from Chatanooga, Tennessee. Clark noted the city's emergency alert system requires repairs ahead of the spring storm cycle, which will cost $7218.24. The councilors voted to release $4000 in additional funding to complete the necessary repairs. Only $3500 was initially budgeted for sirens this year.

Roy Clark to Crews, “Is a conflict of interest a criminal issue?”

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The Voice of Van Buren County

March 2, 2021

scribed as quacking geese, can be deafening. The spring equinox is March 21. If you have info about the greater Crabtree and west Hwy 16 community, call or text Jeffry Burgess, 745-1249.

Jeffry Burgess

James & Joyce Burns

Crabtree

Scotland

Alread offers two scholarships each year, to deserving high school seniors: the JD Puddy Jr. Memorial Scholarship, and the Iris DeRow Memorial Scholarship. For information, or an application, contact Alread EHC or ACRDC. Thursday, the Volunteer Fire Department meets at 7 p.m. For details call 2535071. Friday morning, Jupiter and Mercury pair, barely above the east-southeast horizon, visibility begins almost an hour before sunrise at 6:34 a.m. Nearby Saturn, will be up and to the right. Venus is now lost in the glare of the sun. Do not look at the sun! Later that day, the third quarter moon is official at 7:30 p.m. Last Saturday’s RallyX auto racing tune up event in Crabtree was canceled. ARSCCA organizers apologized for any inconvenience caused but neither track was ready for use. The ground had not drained sufficiently from all the recent precipitation, and extensive damage would have been likely. The first round of eight RallyX racing events is scheduled for March 27. Last week, a neighbor excited showed me her flowerbed with blooming Lenten Roses, also called Helleborus. I noted many of her daffodils were forming flower buds. Back at my place, the green tree frogs have started the annual mating ritual in my pond. Their croaking, sometimes de-

So glad the snow is gone; everyone can start fixing all of their broken waterlines and frozen drains. Our drains froze the first night. The waterlines did not freeze until the last day. Thanks to a good handyman, we are finally back in business. Thank you, David. The Scotland Community Center had some broken pipes, but they are now fixed, and the center is open for lunch and games. You can even call in for take-out if you do not want to eat in. The cafeteria has broken lines, and we hope to get them all checked out soon. I have not talked to many folks, so I do not have much to write about. We spent the day in Little Rock on Friday. James had two appointments and some tests. When we get the results back, we will probably know more when he can get out and about. We did stop by the American Home Pharmacy (In Cash Savers) Last Wednesday and ask about the Vaccine. This Wednesday, when we came home, we had a phone call and got an appointment to get our Vaccine Thursday. It was quick and easy. Clinton drug said they were not getting very many vaccines at a time, and we were still three or four weeks from getting ours. We have waited almost a month already. We are so happy to get our first one and will get our second one on March 25. If you are still waiting, you might want to

check this out. Have a safe and warm week, and if you have anything that needs to go in the paper, please call 5923935, and we will take care of it.

Page 3

V A on Tuesday and then went by Searcy to visit their granddaughter, Brandi Crossen, and get acquainted with their new great-granddaughter. Brandi's sister, Kristi, was visiting from Texas, so they got an extra blessing there. Their daughter, Tammy and Randy Kelly of Milan, came and spent the night with them on Wednesday. She had surgery in Little Rock on Thursday, then they came back Thursday night and spent the night. They returned home to Milan on Friday. It is looking like we will be getting a lot of rain for the next week. I was hoping the rain would hold off for a few weeks to get my garden out early! Well, I guess I'll be happy with what the good Lord sends this way. Veterans Service Everyone take care and have a good week. Officer Paul Pronias's office was recentGod Bless all. ly moved to the North Courthouse Annex. Modern Woodman of the World, Bob-

Modern Woodman Of The World Presented A Flag For Veterans Service Officers New Office

Patsy Ward Formosa

Shelby Guerrieri was honored with a surprise party for her 30th birthday last Saturday. She was stunned, to say the least. They had lots of good food and fellowship with family and close friends. Katie Holloway of Maumelle visited Her grandmother, Sammie Story, on Monday. I'm sure they had a good and welcome visit. It's good to have visitors these days! We had some fantastic games of SkipBo with Sammie on Wednesday evening. We all won a game then played a tiebreaker. I won the last one, so that makes me the "WINNER"! I wonder who'll take that title away from me next time! Haha Sindee Morse had her second surgery on Wednesday, and she is home and doing well. That's good news! David and Pinyan Story was visiting his Mother, DeLane Story, this week and helped her celebrate her 90th birthday. They went out for a good breakfast at Huddle House. She had a birthday cake and received a considerable flower arrangement from all of her family that couldn't be here! All in all, I guess you could say she had a great day! Donna and Richard Sherrod went to Conway for his labs at the

bye Bennett, presented Pronia with a flag for his new office. Mr. Pronia can be reached at (501) 7455114

Thelma Murray Shirley

Lois Compton had a change of scenery out her back window while the snow was on the ground, but she was ready for it to change again by Sunday. Freda Sowell is ready to get started putting out her garden; this weather is holding things up. Visiting Kathy Garrigus, Sunday were her granddaughter Keena and Aaron Ivey and sons Colton and Sawyer. Jimmy & Thelma Murray had our 59th anniversary on February 24; now we are working on the big 60. Jimmy's cousin, Jewell Kocher of Fox, celebrated her 91st birthday on February 27. Martin Smith of Lute Mountain got his potatoes planted on February 25; the weather didn't slow him down. We got our first covid shot on Friday, and a lot of people have already got their second shot. That makes me feel safer to hope that we will stop losing so many of our loved ones.

Have You Seen This Blue Healer? When last seen in the Crabtree area, Duke weighed in at about fifty pounds and was wearing a collar with his family's contact information. If you have informa-

tion that can help bring Duke home, please contact Marcia at (501) 253-0155. The family will provide a reward for information that leads to Duke's safe return.

DeLane Story celebrated her 90th birthday on February 25th. She received a huge flower arrangement from her family and also had a lovely birthday cake.

The Voice of Van Buren County

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Obituaries

Bobby Joe Lee

Bobby Joe Lee, 56, of Mountain View, Arkansas, passed away at his home on Saturday, February 13, 2021. On July 29, 1964, Bobby was born in Clinton, Arkansas, to the late Lonnie Adam and Neda Merle (Bagley) Lee. Bobby grew up in a logging family, and for twenty-five years, he owned and operated L & L Logging. He was a great son, husband, father, and brother and a provider for his family. Bobby will be greatly missed by all of his loving family and friends. Bobby is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Sandra (Daige) Lee; two sons, Nathaniel Lee and Matthew Lee; one daughter, Tori Marie (Lee) Barnett and husband Seth; one granddaughter, Everlee Grace Barnett; one brother, William Richard Lee; five sisters, Freda Wilson, Neda Kay Adams, Dandra Bowren, Jan Stubs, and Tangie Callahan all of Mountain View, Arkansas; along with many extended family and friends. Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie Adam and Neda Merle (Bagley) Lee, and two brothers, Terry Lee and Roger Lee. There will be no services at this time. Roller Crouch Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Daltha Marie Dollar

Daltha Marie Dollar, 78, of Damascus, went home to be with the Lord on February 20, 2021. She was born May 25, 1942, to the late John and Ella (Hartwick) Adams. Marie was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Damascus. She was a bookkeeper during most of her work-

ing life. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. However, the most essential thing in life is she loved the Lord with all her heart and soul. Marie leaves behind her husband of 60 years, Gerald Dollar, one son, Todd Dollar, one daughter, Jan Welsh (Frank), four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, four sisters, three brothers, many other relatives, and numerous friends. Pallbearers were Luke Dollar, Frank Welsh, Russell Creasy, Marcus Creasy, Ralph Webb, and Leon Murphee.

Gene Dale England

Gene Dale England, age 79, of Ben Hur, Arkansas, passed from this life on Monday, February 22nd, 2021. He was going to do what he loved, working cows at the sale barn in Damascus, Arkansas. Gene met his Saviour in a one-car accident south of Leslie on US Highway 65 at the Searcy County line. He was born in Witts Springs, Arkansas, on August 15th, 1941 (if you ask him or his mother, Ora but August 15th, 1940, according to his birth certificate) to Willie England and Ora Drewry England. Dale was a man with many hats, a jack of all trades. He was a cowboy, a sale barn worker, a cattle hauler, a sheet rocker, an avid coon hunter, and a police officer. He loved to bush hog, shoe horses, and kept up with all his kids by phone. Dale accepted the Lord as his Saviour in 1998 at Falling Water Church. Presently he attended Moore Community Church. He played a big part in getting the church started. It began as the Moore Community School House. Dale helped purchase the materials for a new roof and hauled it to the church. Brother Bud Garrison is their Pastor and a good friend. Survivors include his wife, Jannifer Collins England of the home; her three children, Lenora Adams (Brian), Jared Henson (Megan) and Martha Henson; his six children, Adalea Horton (Donnie), Kaye Horton

(Tony), Ken England (Misty), Paula Deckard (Jeff), Cindy Sherwood (Dusty) and Bill England (Debbie); twenty-three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; siblings, WM England (Melita) and Coy England (Charlotte) and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends Dale is preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Ora England; siblings, Willa Dean England, Beale England Drewry, Billie Jean England Epley, Vernon England, and Joe England; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Graveside services for Dale were at 2:00 pm Thursday, February 25th, 2021, at Witts Springs Cemetery, with Brother Bud Garrison and Brother Jared Horton officiating. Bob and Ruth Harmon performed special music. Pallbearers were Lloyd Horton, Koby England, Daken England, Kayden Sherwood, Brayden Sherwood, and Payton Deckard. Honorary pallbearers were Bruce Long, Coy England, Stanley Collins, Glen Collins, Jared Henson, Josh Horton, Caleb Horton, Jared Horton, Dayden Sherwood, Trayden Sherwood, Hayden Sherwood, and Noah England. You may sign our online guestbook on our website: www.rollerfuneralhomes. com/marshall.

Jerry R. Warner

Jerry R. Warner, 70, of Damascus, passed peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 21, 2021, at his home. Jerry had a love for children, especially his grandchildren. He loved spending time with them and teaching them to build rock birdhouses. Jerry was loved by all that knew him. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Stanley Rue Warner and Eloine Frances (Youmans) Warner; three brothers: Danny Warner, Stanley Warner, and George Warner. Jerry left behind six children: Nancy Warner of New Jersey, Ralph Warner of New Jersey, Michelle Jamison of New Jersey, Adolph Warner of Florida, Jackelyn Anderson of Colorado, Nikkie Warner of Colorado, tons of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He was also survived by six brothers: Jay Warner of Heber Springs, Bernard Warner of Bee Branch, Harry James Warner of New South Berlin, N.Y., Monty Warner N.Y., Jonathan Warner of Ohio, and Gene Warner. Three sisters: Lynette Warner, Janice Milovshi of Maddison, N.Y., and Anita Rowe of Damascus, Arkansas. The family will be hosting a private service at a later time.

If you would like to share a special birthday with Voice readers, email voiceeditor@artelco.com

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

Johnny Keith Rhoda

Johnny Keith Rhoda, age 70, passed from this life on February 20, 2021. On October 29, 1950. He was born to Herman (Dutch) Rhoda and Genita Roberts (Rhoda) in Wharton, Texas. Johnny was a loving Father, Husband, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and a devoted family man. He wore many other titles; Pastor, State Executive Committeeman, Van Buren County Republican Chair, Entrepreneur, Motivational Speaker, Little League Coach, Army Ranger, but most importantly, friend. Johnny was a friend to everyone and was loved by many. He was devoted to building a better tomorrow for the community the Country that he loved. He was a Chaplain for the Christian Motorcyclists Association and the founder of the Cornerstone Christian Academy. Johnny took great pride in his time in the 82nd Airborne Division of the Army as an Army Ranger, who bred his absolute love for this Country. He always strived to be the best he could be, which allowed him to graduate with Honors from Special Operations Warfare School, he was a Jungle Warfare Specialist and top of his class in Ranger School, to be the Commandant of the Advanced 82nd Airborne School, get this Bachelor’s in Agriculture and Political Science, Masters in Business Administration (with a little help from Linda) and a Ph.D. in Philosophy. Johnny cherished his time with his family and considered them his greatest accomplishment. Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, Herman (Dutch) Rhoda and Genita (Roberts) Rhoda, Babe (Margie) Morris, and brother, Tommy Rhoda. Johnny is survived by his wife, Linda Rhoda, Daughter, Marsha (Kevin) Trammell, Grandchildren, Kyle (Maddison) Trammell, Ali (Shane) Pipkin, Alex (Chris) Ragland, Jesse (Bunnie) Churches, Great-Grandchildren, Lane, Zoey, Evelyn, Braelynn, Ranger, and Taelynn, Brothers and Sisters, Donald (Tammey) Rhoda, Rhonda Hunter, Peggy (Bobby) Dunham, Ronnie (Brenda) Rhoda, Paul (Jill)

March 2, 2021 Rhoda, Sister and Brotherin-law, Kathy and Tommy Halford, as well as a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and Friends. Visitation services were held at Clinton Funeral Service on February 25, 2021, at 10:00 am, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. Graveside service followed at the Trace Ridge Cemetery on Highway 254. Johnny Rhoda received Full Military Honors.

Vivian Price-Smith

Vivian Price-Smith, 91, left her earthly home for her heavenly home on Monday, February 22, 2021. She was born to Opie and Frances (Watkins) Price on November 19, 1929. She was raised in the Sidon Community on Little Creek in Arkansas. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Edwin Glen, son Jimmie R. Smith, and daughter, Jeanne K. Doyle. On January 19, 1946, she married J.R. Smith, and of this union, three children were born; Jimmie R., Patricia Elaine, and Jeanne Kay Smith. Vivian retired from Commercial Printing of Searcy in 1994. She attended Temple Baptist Church as long as she was able. Vivian was saved and baptized as a young girl at Sidon Baptist Church. She was a past member of the Order of Eastern Star. Her favorite scripture was John 14:1-3; Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, also believe in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may also be. Left to cherish Vivian's memory are one daughter, Patricia Elaine Griggs of Clinton, Arkansas, and two brothers, Raybon "Dude" Price of Sidon, Arkansas, and Dwight Price of Cabot, Arkansas. Graveside services were onThursday, February 25, 2021, at 2:00 pm at Foster's Chapel Cemetery in Searcy, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Foster's Chapel Cemetery Account, First Security Bank, PO Box 1009, Searcy, Arkansas 72145-9988

The Voice of Van Buren County

March 2, 2021

Page 5

Clinton High School EAST wins Cornerstone Award Kinley McMahan

Maggie Story

Weston Mask

South Side student winners of Farm Bureau contest South Side students won the Van Buren County Farm Bureau's Agriculture in the classroom art contest.

School Menus Clinton Pre-K and Elementary, March 1-5

Monday Breakfast: Cereal, Fruit, Juice, Milk, Lunch: Chicken Sandwich, French Fries, Lettuce/ Tomato, Fruit, Milk Tuesday Breakfast: Muffin, Fruit, Juice, Milk, Lunch: Beef Taco, Lettuce/ Tomato, Cheese/Salsa, Pinto Beans, Fruit,

Awards went to Kindergarten student Weston Mask. First-grader Kinley McMahan and sec-

ond-grader Maggie Story. Cindy Wilson headed up the contest. The kids received a book

and money for their awards. Submitted by art teacher Wendy Gross.

Cinnamon Roll, Milk We d n e s d a y Breakfast: Cereal, Fruit, Juice, Milk, Lunch: Italian Rotini, Romain Salad, Carrots, Fruit, Breadstick, Milk Thursday Breakfast: Super Bun, Fruit, Juice, Milk, Lunch: Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Wheat Roll, Fruit, Milk Friday Breakfast: Cereal, Fruit, Juice, Milk, Lunch: Pizza, Carrot Stix, Corn, Fruit, Milk

Clinton Junior and High School March 1 - 5

Cheese, Lettuce/ Tomatoes, Refried Beans, Fruit Cup/Fruit, Milk Thursday Breakfast: Biscuit and Sausage, Fruit, Milk, Lunch: Open Face Turkey/Gravy, Creamed Potatoes, Green Beans, French Bread, Dessert, Fruit, Milk Friday Breakfast: Mini Cinnis, Fruit, Juice/Milk, Lunch: Chicken Patty on Bun, Mustard/Mayo, Lettuce/Tomatoes, Fries/ Ketchup, Fruit, Milk

Monday Breakfast: Mini French Toast, Fruit, Juice/ Milk, Lunch: Chicken Fajita Flat Bread, Tossed Salad, Corn, Fruit Cup, Milk Tuesday Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza, Fruit, Juice/Milk, Lunch: Mexican Pie, L e t t u c e / To m a t o e s , Pinto beans, Muffin, Applesauce/Fruit, Milk We d n e s d a y Breakfast: Donut, Fruit, Juice/Milk, Lunch: Burrito/Chili/

Clinton High School EAST wins Cornerstone Award for Student Growth & Engagement. Clinton High School’s EAST program recently received the EAST Initiative Cornerstone Award for Student Growth & Engagement. Clinton EAST Facilitator Jennifer Fleming stated, “I am extremely proud of my students and the hard work they have put in not only this year but the past several years. They definitely deserve this award.” The Cornerstone Award winners will be recognized during this year’s virtual EAST Conference. Since winners have already been announced, EAST Conference is a time of celebration. As part of that celebration, each Cornerstone Award winner will have the opportunity to present an educational session at the virtual event.

About the EAST Initiative

many people from all over the state and elsewhere to visit our county and shop locally! Each year during the "Christmas in Clinton" celebration, the Eoffs have an outdoor market and trade show

and fundraisers, which benefit the Van Buren County food bank. Due to folks' creative entrepreneurship like the Eoffs, Clinton and Van Buren County are a great place to live, visit and shop.

The EAST Initiative’s mission is to provide all learners the opportunity to have relevant, individualized, life-changing educational experiences. It establishes and supports classrooms built on the principle that students can actively determine their learning when challenged to help their community and empowered by sophisticated technology. Headquartered in Little Rock, EAST currently serves 260 schools in four states. Additionally, the organization offers training to EAST students and professional development for EAST educators and traditional classroom teachers, regardless of subject area or grade level. To learn more, visit www.eastinitiative.org or www. facebook.com/east.initiative

Bar O F Western Store Community Profile

by Jeff Stansbery

A stunning sight no one can miss when driving down US Highway 65 through Clinton is an array of silver-painted animal statues lined up in the grassy landscape down below a large sign on the hill above, which reads WESTERN FURNITURE. 'Bar OF Western Store' is a family business owned and operated by Dan and Peggy Sudoku Solution

Eoff and their daughter Dapple. Esteban Saavedra painted these beautifully crafted animals. Saavedra is a Clinton High School graduate and a very talented cake-maker, stated Peggy Eoff. She said the animals were purchased in Mexico and brought to their store, where they are displayed. Peggy added their most significant stock of western-style furnishings is from small,

family-owned businesses in Mexico. Many of the beautifully hand-crafted furnishings in their store are one-of-a-kind items. Created as a feed store back in 1988, the Eoffs started their business, but their desire to furnish their own home with western-styled furniture prompted them to begin supplying their store with all kinds of western furnishings, clothes, and home decor. For over twenty years, they have stocked their business, which is housed in five buildings, with a wide variety of merchandise. Peggy said their place is quite the tourist stop for people traveling to and from Branson, Missouri. The Eoff's also founded the Chuckwagon Races about thirty-five years ago, a yearly event that attracts people from all over the United States. When they began the races, there were eight teams of horses and wagons. This past year,

170 teams came to the ranch from ten to fifteen states to participate. This yearly phenomenon continues to grow and gain popularity. It has been a tremendously successful event that has drawn

Crossword Solution

Get the scoop on courts and crime in the county. Subscribe to The Voice. $35/year in county; $45/year outside of county.

745-8040

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 6

A Birds Eye View On History

Remembering Bernice Evans Lizzy Evans knew it was time to fetch the doctor, who we believe was Dr. Hutto. One of her sons, probably our Uncle Polie, or Uncle Bill because Uncle Web was only seven, was sent by horseback to get the doctor. The snow was so deep the horse’s belly dragged the snow. The doctor made it to our grandma in time to assist her in having her thirteenth child, our mother, Bernice Evans. She was born on February 19. Bernice would marry Ellis Ward on August 12, 1939. They lived in the Bee Branch area then moved to Formosa, where their first child was born, Calla. Around the year 1941, they moved to Shirley, where Ronnie and Glenda were born. We celebrate our

Mom’s 100th birthday with a record snowstorm, just like when she was born. If Mom had been here during this snow, we would have had bananas and Pet milk for snow ice cream. Our Mom was a quiet person until she had something to say. She was very wise, creative, and a great cook. She would see a quilt, a dress, or a shirt, and she could figure out how to sew it without a pattern. She always made sure the birds had food, and when they had milk cows, you could see her slip a biscuit to her cow. She loved to fish and always made sure to go fishing on May 1 every year because that was her Mom’s birthday. Her Mom always went

March 2, 2021

fishing on that day, giving our mother a way to remember her. Mom left us on December 1, 2004. Daddy missed her so severely that he followed four months later. Mama will be re- Aerial view of the Clinton Walmart in 1990 Photo from Van Buren County, Arkansas: Thanks for the Memories. membered and loved by her family, and stories will be told to her great-great grandkids. We miss you, Mama. The family of Calla Linn the family of Ronnie Ward, the family of Glenda Keenihan

Coronavirus Maude and Leonard Cullum owned the gas station in the lower portion of Cullum photos are courtesy of Martha Mulford. the aerial photo above.

The baby pictured with Leonard Cullum is Dustin Isom. The Cullum's and their Self Service gas station was a fixture on US Highway 65 across from the hospital and Blue Bonett Drive-In for years long before Walmart came to Clinton.

Let's Talk Covid-19 Vaccine and Treatment by Jose Abiseid, M.D. vaccines in the pipe- pital and was first used and Caitlin Shull, APRN line; AstraZeneca, a for the Ebola virus. It

At this time, there are only two approved Covid-19 vaccines, the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccine. They are both ninety-four percent effective in producing immunity and preventing death. Both require two doses. Pfizer's doses are twenty-one days apart, and Moderna's doses are twenty-eight days apart. There are other

two-shot vaccine, is supposed to prevent Covid spread, and Johnson & Johnson's a single-dose vaccine. They are supposed to be available this summer. On the treatment aspect, there are no medicines that cure Covid-19 infection. Two medicines help and have emergency use by the CDC. Remdesivir, which is an antiviral given in the hos-

has been known to shorten the illness by two days. Monoclonal antibodies are to be given outpatient for mild to moderate disease within ten days of illness after a positive test result. It is approved for patients 65 and older. However, it can be given to younger patients with diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, morbid obesity, sickle cell anemia, and asthma.

Where to find the Voice Austin

of Van Buren County

• The Austin Store (Inside sales)

(501) 745-8040

Bee Branch • Snappy's (Outside Rack sales)

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

Clinton • • • • • • • • • •

Courthouse Annex (outside 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) Doctor's Building (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

March 2, 2021

March 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lyn Danson Smith March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catherine Calvin March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dewayne Myer March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doyle Edwards March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joesph Rooney March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kay Branscum March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kenny Whillock March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kimberly Beard March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Norman Avery March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sammy Alexander March 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandy Wieners March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Valentine March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . Billy Michael Bridges March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carl Manville March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Celina Helsel March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cynthia Heindi March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jim Clutes March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julia Daugherty March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kaylea Slack March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . Kimberly Ann Pearson March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry Hollet March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Laura Lolly Miller March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Rice March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slim French March 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Watkins March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Al Booher March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anita Duncan March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anna King March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sonia Pike March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Johnson

Make us your Birthday Headquarters!

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

www.mainstreetfloristclinton.com

March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Harris March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Braxton Honeycutt March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buster Beach March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel Beavers March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Darien Slayton March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Darla Smith March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elsie Ethridge March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ida Smith March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inez Privitt March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Bradford March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Justin Bintliff March 4 . . . . . . . . . Karen Hammerle Moore March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry Clayton, Jr. March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lexy Skye March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nettie Smith March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patricia Keith March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Randi Lynn Stripling March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Randy Pruitt March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rusty Taylor March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sherry Matthews March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tom Elliott March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zach Johnston March 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zoey Woodward March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adam Witt March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anita Ward Cook March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harold Walker March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hazel Massey March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan Bonds Mahan March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Scroggins March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rex Simmons

Page 7

March 6 . . . . . . . . . . Robert Andrew Walker March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shelia Watts March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andy Isom March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Angela Mathis March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buddy Skowron, Sr. March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Darrell Black March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . Frances Milton Wade March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gayla Frank March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Wyborny March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lorrie Flickinger March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mildred Bramlett March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nick Bane March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ramona Miller March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rebecca Bramlett March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Wheeler March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terry Sowell March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vicki Overby March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denna Tumbleson March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Derek Payne March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dustin Hall March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Evelyn Runnels March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jake Warner March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jamie Glideway March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joe Hurley March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joshua Dye March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Rhoda March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Renee Vinson March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shane Tharp March 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stephen Wildman

We will have a Monthly Drawing from the Birthday names for a gift from one of the Birthday Page Sponsors! Simply stop by our office and add your family and friends to our birthday list or email names and dates to us at thevoice@artelco.com or call us (501) 745-8040.

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

from

Susie Allen’s Salon Please call for appointments

501-745-4247 for you and your family.

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

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

Happyhday birthes! wis RadioShack®

Northside Shopping Center 117 Bone St

501-745-4988

The Voice of Van Buren County

Fun & Games

1 Sailors "hey" 2 Tie shoes 3 Appearance 4 Also known as (abbr.) 5 Lodged 6 Horse 7 Official canine registry (abbr.) 8 Seed bread 9 Toward a place or time beyond 10 Florida City 11 _ and pains 12 Intended 14 Excessively 22 Adopted time zones and began using DST in 1918 24 Being single in number 25 Properly 26 Surface a road 27 Wading bird 28 Coming 29 Garner 30 Unruly child 31 Holy person 34 Water pitcher 35 Zest 36 Raggedy Ann's friend 38 Southeast by east 39 Unit of time equal to sixty minutes 40 Hurried 42 "- out " tired ' 43 Invisible 44 Daylight Savings Time 45 And so forth 46 Confusion 47 Pointer of a clock 48 __ Lauder makeup 49 Deflect a sword or blow 51 "He swept her off her_" 52 Mr. Downs of 60 minutes 53 Throb 54 Dole out 57 Boxer Muhammad 58 Central daylight time 60 Telegraphic signal

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 1979 they proclaimed We are Family In 1979 he was carrying on a Family Tradition In 1980 he sang about the Family Bible on the table In 2012 he said Nothing beats a Family In 2017 they said, No other place can ease your mind like a Family table

Answers

Sister Sledge

1 matter 5 Winter neckwear 10 Mayan language 13 Japanese poem 15 National capital 16 Winter hazard 17 Pacific, for example 18 Stomache sore 19 Expression of surprise 20 Japanese money 21 Conduit 23 Adult females 25 Twilight 26 Plays piano 28 Interstellar gas 31 Cavalry sword 32 In the first stage of a time period 33 Eager 34 Estimated time of arrival 37 Doctor's picture 38 Moves in fright 40 Beautiful bird 41 Explosive 42 Lowest in rank 43 Turn over 44 Beginning of career or course 45 Power or heat from the sun that can be put to use by humans 46 Arthur, U.S. President 49 Posttraumatic stress disorder 50 "_ makes waste" 51 Surface of a clock 52 Type of meat 55 Colony insect 56 Racing car 59 Elicit 61 Poem of praise 62 Senior 63 Hours of darkness between sunset and dawn 64 Compass point 65 Little songs 66 Biblical "you"

Hank Williams, Jr.

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.

Willie Nelson

Across

Rules

Ricky Skaggs

Weekly Crossword

March 2, 2021

Zac Brown Band

Page 8

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 TLC Bookkeeping & Tax, 908 US-65 bus., Clinton )

March 2, 2021

The Voice of Van Buren County

Fishing Report low the flood stage of 26.0 feet. The stage at Augusta is still high at 20.75 feet, a big drop from last week's near flood stage reading, which is 26.0 feet.

Lake Monticello

The lake is undergoing a repair to the dam by the City of Monticello, and the AGFC is making improvements to the fish habitat while the lake is currently drawn down for the dam work.

Northeast Arkansas

be stocked. After the prey fish have established a base over the Lake Charles next year or so, predShelly Jeffrey at ator fish such as largeLake Charles State mouth bass and crapPark (870-878-6595) pie will then be stocked. said that the best fishing days, based on Crown Lake Boxhound Marimoon cycles, should be March 10-16. Good na (870-670-4496) redays are expected to mains closed until furbe March 25-31. When ther notice "due to unthe water thaws, the foreseen circumstanclevel should still below, es." However, they are and the clarity will be still accepting RV and cabin reservations. murky.

Lake Poinsett

At Lake Poinsett's gate at the dam was closed on December 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 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

Spring River

Mark Crawford with springriverfliesandguides.com (870-9558300) said water levels are running at 350 CFS, average flow, and water clarity has had a heavy green tint. "After last week with all the cold and snow, the trout were happy to see us floating down the river this week." Olive and brown Woollies are working well, and Y2Ks with a nymph dropper is the ticket for slower days. On spin-fishing, a gold Rooster Tail has been wearing them out. Trout cranks are working well in the deeper holes, significantly below waterfalls where the water can get deep. Mark says that starting in March, the

trout stocking "will increase a lot. That always makes for easier catching. For the next three months, the river will be prime fishing as long as a monsoon does not move through. The canoe hatch does not begin until the end of May when school lets out." John Berry of Berry Brothers Guide Service in Cotter (870-4352169) said the Spring River is fishing well. This is a great place to wade fish when running water on the White and North Fork rivers. Canoe season is coming, and it will get busy. Be sure to wear cleated boots and carry a wading staff. There is a lot of bedrock that can get very slick. The hot flies have been olive Woolly Buggers with a bit of flash (size 10), cerise and hot pink San Juan worms (size 10), and Y2Ks (size 10).

White River

The Army Corps of Engineers reported Thursday that the White River stage at Batesville was at 6.59 feet, well below the flood stage of 15.0 feet. At Newport, the river is at 8.22, a drop of nearly 7 feet from last week and almost 18 feet be-

Southwest Arkansas

Lake Greeson

As of Thursday, the Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake's elevation at Narrows Dam was 537.61feet MSL (full pool: 548.00 feet MSL). No reports.

DeGray Lake

The Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake's elevation was 403.02 feet MSL (full pool: 408.00 feet MSL). Local angler Charles Abernathy says water was around 40-42 degrees as of Wednesday, depending on location. "The water up in the river around Point Cedar/Cox Creek was a blueish-green color I have never seen before," he said. "I still see crappie schooled up in mouths of some significant creek channels. I'm also seeing the larger ones hanging out in open water. I was in 30 feet of water, and the fish seemed to be using the entire water column, but the majority seemed to be within 15 feet. On my latest trip, I used an orange hand-tie and a monkey milk Slab Slayer with a chartreuse green head.

They both worked fine. If you haven't seen my two previous reports, look them up. That information is still valid. "Spring is right around the corner, and these crappies know it. If you wait for the spawn, you will miss a pretty good bite. They are feeding right now. "I get quite a few emails, and I enjoy re a d i n g / re s p o n d i n g to every one of them. Thank you so much for reading these, and thanks to everyone for letting me know. As always, feel free to reach out at c.abernathy32@ gmail.com for more info. I have a new YouTube channel where I share some fishing content. Look me up. Good luck out there, and be safe and be nice.:

De Queen Lake

As of Thursday, the Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake's elevation was 437.34 feet MSL (full pool: 437.00 feet MSL). Shane Goodner, the owner of Catch 'em All Guide Service, reports that the water temperature below Carpenter Dam is 45 degrees with clear conditions in the tailrace. Water levels are now back to the original 5-foot drawdown level established in November. Entergy is currently scheduling generation in the afternoon hours, which has enabled the public to take advantage of fishing opportunities and much safer boating. The weekly generation schedule is posted on the Entergy website each Wednesday afternoon, and anyone planning on using the Carpenter Dam tailrace is advised to check out the report. Currently, rainbow trout

Page 9

are the main attraction for anglers to target below the dam. Many fish are present and feeding heavily on injured threadfin shad drawn through the dam from Lake Hamilton. Because of the vast influx of prey items, these fish are harder to catch and patience must be used for success. Fly-fishermen can still wade to areas that hold numbers of trout and should use a fly that imitates something other than a shad. A worm imitation such as the San Juan worm, often mentioned in this report, is a highly underrated fly that can produce good catches of rainbow trout in current or slack water conditions. Woolly Buggers in green or black have done well this week, cast with a strike indicator. Egg pattern flies in orange or white have drawn strikes from finicky trout that are stuffed from threadfin shad feeding. Bank anglers have had little trouble catching limits of fish by using PowerBaits, and redworms fished just off the bottom with a marshmallow floater. Much larger trout are scheduled to be released in March below area dams as the springtime approaches. The walleye spawn has begun, but no reports have come in due to the heavy snowfall amounts of the past week. Anglers have been unable to access the tailrace area to launch a boat. These fish will be spawning in Lake Catherine until mid-April. Both lakes Hamilton and Catherine, are scheduled to be refilled beginning Monday, March 1.

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

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The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 10

March 2, 2021

CHURCH PAGE

Photo by EuGene Smith

Thanks to those of you who called and correctly identified last week's featured church as Shirley Church of Christ 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

Shirley Church of Christ 10509 Hwy 16E, PO Box 45, Shirley, AR 72153-0045

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

March 2, 2021

Page 11

Classifieds • Legal RESEARCH

Reflect A Moment He said, “You are the world's light - it is impossible to hide...”

MISC. FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

REAL ESTATE

Wanted Live in Care Provider

FOR SALE OR LEASE

Live in Care provider wanted for widowed elderly man in Pee Dee.

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

Room and Board provided and wages are negotiable. Contact Randall at (479) 747-0996

Call 501-940-5448

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

For Rent

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:

REAL ESTATE

LOT 12; LEWIS SUGARLOAF; FAIRFIELD BAY, ARKANSAS

For Sale

NOTICE OF QUIET TITLE ACTION

For Sale: 37acres +/-. Wooded, on county road, has power available. Nice views and wildlife.

For Rent

Chimes community, Searcy County.

2 BR, 1Bath Apt near School and Down Town ***************** Trash removal and Water Furnished

$74,000 501-745-8484

Call: 745-8644 or 253-0664

EMPLOYMENT

Small 2BR, 1BA in Leslie.

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

Corner of 5th and Elm close to school close to Buffalo River

Apartments and mobile homes in Bee Branch area. $450-$650/month. Deposit required. Call for availability (501) 581-8640

********** Big yard Good for single or couple

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

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, Grocery store wine and beer at retail to be carried out and not consumed on the premises described as:

VS. NO. 71CV-20-134

2051 Hwy 65S Street Address Clinton City/Town Van Buren County Said application was filed on January 4, 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. Whitney Boudreaux Name of Applicant Casey's Name of business

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.

NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATIONS FOR RETAIL LIQUOR AND OFF PREMISES PERMITS

/s/ Olivia Gilmore BY Olivia Gilmore D.C.

FOR RENT

NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATION FOR RETAIL BEER OFF PREMISES, GROCERY STORE WINE & SMALL FARM WINE -RETAIL PERMITS

Sworn before me this 22nd day of February 2021

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

for crocheted items, knickknacks, dishes and jewelry.

LEGAL

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.

WITNESS my hand and seal of the Court this 15th day of December, 2020.

Shop Booth 94 at Howard's Antiques

LEGAL

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

/s/ Lori Jones Lori Jones Notary Public My Commission Expires 08/28/2024 Commission # 12401058

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 spirituous, vinous, and malt liquor, and beer at retail to be carried out and not consumed on the licensed premises described as: 101 Hwy 9 West Street Address Shirley City/Town

BEN C. MATTOCKS PETITIONER

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. WITNESS my hand and seal of the Court this 7th day of December, 2020. First Published: 01-05-2021 /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

Van Buren County Said application was filed on February 25, 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. Joseph J. Linn Name of Applicant RAGIN' Name of business Sworn before me this 26th day of February 2021 /s/ Landon Ray Bagley Landon Ray Bagley Notary Public

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

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

DUPLEXES FOR RENT Nice 1000 sqft 2-bedroom Duplexes with appliances. No Pets. No Smoking. $600-$650/month plus deposit. Call: 501-745-5858 or 501-412-7682

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

The Voice of Van Buren County

Page 12

THAT

BANNER MOUNTAIN GIRL

by Freeda Baker Nichols

Two Special Mail Carriers Mail call is an important part of everyone’s day. Although Facebook and iPhones are fast becoming a way to communicate, there will always be something special about reaching in the mailbox, taking out an envelope, holding it in my hand and looking at the nearby or far away return address in the upper left corner. Just knowing that a friend or relative has thought of me makes my day brighter. All those who work with mail delivery are people to be commended for a job well done. Today, I’d like to tell you about two very special, rural mail carriers who have been a pleasant part of my life––Hugh Piggee McKnight and Patsy Willoughby. At Banner Mountain, my folks received mail on RFD 2, Shirley, Arkansas. Our mail carrier was Hugh Piggee McKnight. Everyone called him Piggee. A dirt road brought him by our farmhouse. Piggee brought mail down that seldom-traveled road every day except Sunday. Back in the bygone days––there at Banner––my sister and I anxiously waited to see what Piggee would bring in the mail. Sometimes he brought postcards with pictures of Monte Hale and Roy Rogers—pictures we had ordered from Hollywood for our collection. And he brought new school clothes

which our parents had ordered from the mail order catalogue. Back then, we heard Piggee’s car before we saw it coming down the road, with swirls of dust rising high in the air. And we heard Piggee whistling. Something about his whistling made the whole world seem safe, good and right. Back when I was a teenager receiving letters from my sweetheart, Piggee brought them every day except Sunday. If I chanced to be at the mailbox when he came by, he stopped whistling long enough to smile and say, “Here’s your daily!” In his mail car, he carried a pick and shovel, and often he stopped to fill a chug hole with dirt or dig up rocks to make the road a little smoother. I married the young man who wrote the daily letters. He was in the U.S. Air Force and he took me far away from Banner to many different places but in all our travels, I never met another postman like Piggee. Retired, and living by a highway near Clinton, Arkansas, my husband and I were fortunate to finally meet another special mail carrier––a young lady named Patsy Willoughby who delivered our mail. She had many of the good qualities that Piggee had. Her white truck with flashing light on top turned into our

drive from the busy highway, eased around our circle driveway and stopped at our mailbox. She brought the mail with dependability and assurance that we would receive all correspondence, whether it was something as important as a bank statement or unimportant as an ad for an extra credit card. We listened for the sound of her truck and watched for the flashing light on top. Sometimes our barking dog alerted us that she was at the mailbox. “The mail lady came,” my husband would sometimes announce. She was so regular in her timing. She was one of the best. Although there was not much time to talk to Patsy, she was friendly and smiling when we did have the opportunity to speak with her. She was definitely an asset to our community and to our local postal service. Rain or shine, snow or ice, we could count on her white truck to make its daily, except Sunday, trip to our mailbox. If the red flag was up, she picked up the out-going mail and took it on its way to the addressee. More often than not, she left interesting cards, letters and newspapers for us to browse through in our leisure. With fond remembrance, I write about these two special mail carriers––Piggee, who passed away some years ago, and, Patsy, who now enjoys her retirement and hangs close to the farm. She says she misses the people on her mail route. I’m sure the people miss her, too. Just as I do.

March 2, 2021

This sign of the coming spring was spotted last week, north of Dennard. Commonly called Lenten Rose, Helleborus is an evergreen flowering plant in the buttercup family and found throughout the county. Photo by Jeff Burgess

Ann Mann helped celebrate her granddaughter's birthday recently and got a four-generation picture made. From left to right-Ann, Brian Tatum, Photo submitted by Patsy Ward. Shelby Guerrieri, and her baby girl Sadie.

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