SEVIER COUNTY RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION BOIL WATER ORDER LIFTED   09/02/10

The boil water order issued on Tuesday by Bryan Martz of the Sevier County Water Association for residents from De Queen Lake road north to King Road has been lifted.    The order was due to lightning strikes on two of their water lines. 

DE QUEEN LOSES SECOND BUSINESS IN A YEAR TO NASHVILLE 9/2/10

De Queen has now lost another business to Nashville according to announcements made by EPI officials.

According to De Queen Mayor Billy Ray McKelvy the official announcement was made Wednesday. EPI President John Graves and CFO Bob Kurilla said current facility conditions and the proximity to Husqvarna was the major deciding factor on the move. They are expected to start moving their production in early 2011.

Husqvarna has already started the process of shifting their operations to Nashville .

GROUND BREAKING AT NEW HORATIO HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING SITE     09/02/10

The Horatio School District held a ground breaking ceremony for their new Jr. & Sr. High School on this morning at 10:00 A.M.  

The new school will be located on Metcalf Street and will house grades 7-12. 

Total size is 83,818 square feet and will cost $12,214,718.  State funds will cover $7,515,787; District cost is $4,698,994.  The project should be completed in April 2012.

Superintendent John Ward thanked the community for the support received for the project.

Photos by Missy Whitlow

Steve Sharp does it again, and receives honors for heroic actions      09/02/10

Steve Sharp, MRO in De Queen, has been recognized again with the SWEPCO Good Samaritan Award for his recent actions this summer in an emergency situation.

On June 15, Steve was on his regular meter reading route on Highway 41 in De Queen when he heard a loud noise, noticing a small RV had lost control and gone off the road. The vehicle struck a tree, sideswiped the side of a church, hit a second tree and eventually came to rest within six feet of the front door of a house.

"Steve parked safely and approached the elderly driver to check on his condition. The gentleman was conscious and shaken up over the accident. Steve made sure the driver was not in danger, called 911 and stayed with him until both local police and ambulance arrived, assisting rescue personnel in getting him out of the damaged vehicle," said Steve's MRO supervisor, Roy Bermea, in Texarkana.

In 2009, Steve also was recognized with the Good Samaritan Award for coming to the aid of a customer in De Queen who had fallen overnight in her yard and was suffering hypothermia. He secured a loose dog who was protecting the woman, called for emergency assistance, and stayed nearby, keeping her calm until help arrived.

 by Scott R McCloud

MIKE ROSS VISIT TO DE QUEEN                9/2/10

Congressman Mike Ross recently held a town hall meeting in De Queen.

Ross said that the key to the success of a rural community is small businesses.

Ross said troops are being strategically pulled out of Iraq and some are being shifted to Afghanistan .   Those troops will also be brought home in the next few years according to Ross.

Mike Ross is running for re-election.  He will face Republican Beth Ann Rankin in the November General Election.

NTSB SAYS AIRCRAFT CAME APART IN FLIGHT                   9/2/10

A medical helicopter en route to pick up a patient crashed early Tuesday near Scotland in Van Buren County, killing all three crew members aboard, authorities said.

The crash occurred about 4 a.m. as the Air Evac Lifeteam helicopter, based in Vilonia, was on its way to Crabtree to meet an ambulance to pick up a patient, Air Evac spokeswoman Julie Heavrin said.

A federal investigator says the helicopter left a trail of parts for about a mile before it hit the ground near a mobile home.

NTSB investigator Jennifer Rodi said Wednesday the debris trail indicates the helicopter came apart in the air. She said the main rotor separated from the aircraft and was found north of the main crash site, and the tail was found to the southwest.

Rodi says investigators will try to reconstruct what's left of the aircraft at the Clinton Airport on Thursday and Friday. She said the agency has obtained radar data that will be examined and may reveal more about the aircraft's final moments.

She said nearby residents say they heard the sound of an explosion and a fluttering or flapping sound, the engine revving up, and then metal crunching when the helicopter hit the ground.

The victims were identified as pilot Kenneth Robertson of Searcy, flight nurse Kenneth Meyer Jr. of Center Ridge and flight paramedic Gayla Gregory of Clarksville .

STATE REVENUE HIGHER THEN EXPECTED                 9/2/10

Arkansas finance officials say the state collected more money in August than expected and also beat last year's figures.

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration reported Thursday that the state's net available revenues were $18 million more in August than forecast and $31 million more than the same month last year. The state saw an increase in sales and individual income tax collections, but corporate income taxes collections were down.

The state's net available revenues are $32.7 million above forecast for the fiscal year that began July 1.

Gov. Mike Beebe says the report is good news, but cautioned to not get too excited about the numbers since it's still early in the fiscal year.

Texarkana , Ark. , woman finds alligator in driveway   9/2/10

Tina Brewer said she went out to the front yard about 3 a.m. Tuesday when her Great Dane began barking furiously. Brewer said she didn't see anything amiss until she noticed a dark object moving in her driveway.

She said the object turned out to be a six-foot alligator.

According to Brewer, she contacted police, who then notified state Game & Fish Commission Wildlife Technician Mike Harris.

Harris, who captured the alligator, said it appeared to have taken refuge in Brewer's yard after having been struck by a vehicle. But he said the animal's wounds didn't appear severe - the worst was about a foot of missing tail - and he released it near the Red River at Fulton .

International Education Consultant Visits Legacy Academy       09/02/10

De Queen, Ark—Legacy Academy, a private grammar school in De Queen hosted a day long in-service with Cecile Taylor of Trinidad and Tobago last week in preparation for the new school year. Mrs. Taylor led a day long staff development session. She utilized her lifetime in education as a portal for learning that the school’s staff was able to look through and learn valuable and applicable principles and tools. The workshop included sessions on staff collaboration, creative teaching in the classroom, building a proper school culture, and the value of a child among others. The sessions were both instructive and interactive.

Mrs. Cecile Taylor is an Education Development Consultant with Congress WBN, an international non-profit organization focused on effecting human, social and national transformation through values-based development principles and initiatives.

She served for 10 years as the first Director of NorthGate College, a pioneering high school in Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies, which has established a track record of innovation in education and a reputation for its commitment to holistic human development. She has earned a reputation as a tireless champion of values-based education and, through Congress WBN, she continues her work globally to assist educational institutions provide balanced and well-rounded education programs. Over the years Mrs. Taylor has been responsible for planning and delivering numerous seminars to educators and education institutions. 

Mrs. Taylor holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from the University of Surrey in the UK, and a post-graduate Diploma in Education focusing on Educational Administration from the University of the West Indies. Mrs. Taylor lives in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies. She is married with three children and seven grandchildren.

Legacy Academy is a private school in De Queen which serves students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through third grade. For more information about Legacy Academy call 642.8937.

BURNED BODY STILL UNIDENTIFIED                 9/1/10

Oklahoma officials are investigating the death of a man whose body was found inside a burned vehicle near Tom , OK .

Jessica Brown, public service director of the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, said as of Tuesday, officials were still unable to identify the body.  The vehicle and body were found northwest of Tom , OK on August 24th by hog hunters who immediately called authorities.  Authorities have give no information on the burned vehicle.

Investigators stated that it does not appear to be foul play at this time but the incident is still under investigation, and they are still trying to identify the body.  Other agencies involved in the investigation include the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the State Fire Marshall.

WEDNESDAY 9/1 NEWS GOV . MIKE BEEBE IN DE QUEEN     9/1/10

Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe was in De Queen Tuesday evening for a fundraiser at the home of Larry and Cindy Hale. Governor Beebe says he always enjoys coming to Southwest Arkansas to see friends.

While making his campaign rounds in rural Arkansas , Governor Beebe says he’s hearing discontent in regards to Washington D.C. , but Arkansans are upbeat about their home state. The Governor pointed out that Arkansas was one of only four states enjoying a budget surplus.

Gary “Stoney” Walker presented a check for $1,000 to Governor Beebe on behalf of the Sevier County Democratic Central Committee, and Judy Smith presented a $500 check on behalf of the Sevier County Democratic Women. In all, the event raised over $12,000 for Governor Beebe’s re-election bid in the November General Election.

SEVIER COUNTY FARMERS CO-OP MEETING     9/1/10  

Approximately 400 members of the Sevier County Farmers Cooperative attended the annual membership meeting at the De Queen High School cafeteria Tuesday evening. Manager Darrell Payne said the Farmers Co-op had annual sales of over seven-point-eight million dollars in the past fiscal year, with net savings of just over sixty-five thousand dollars. Considering the economy, Payne says it was a very good year.

The Farmers Co-op spent money on remodeling and repairs in the past year. Darrell Payne say the project of removing underground storage tanks at the Service Station on Lakeside Drive is on schedule. Payne pointed out that the Co-op really appreciates the loyalty and patronage of its members and customers.

Loyd Montgomery of Lockesburg, Danny Lipsey of Horatio, and Tommy Wagner of Horatio were re-elected to the Co-op Board. 30% of the 2010 patronage will be paid in the form of cash dividends in December.

AARP DRIVER’S SAFETY CLASS                9/1/10

There will be a 4-hour AARP Driver Safety Class held at the De Queen Senior Citizen’s Center, 605 East Haes Avenue on Saturday, September 18^th from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.   The class is open to drivers of all ages.

Membership in AARP is not required.  There will be no tests.  Fee for enrollment is $14 ($12 for those with AARP National Membership).  The fee includes the cost of the workbook and is payable upon arrival at the class.

Completion of the class could result in a discount on your auto insurance. Participants are requested to register PRIOR to class by either signing up at the Senior Citizen’s Center or by calling 870-642-3420. 

CRATER OF DIAMONDS RENOVATED CAMPGROUND OPENS - 9/1/10

The Crater of Diamonds State Park campground opened yesterday after a year-long renovation and will be taking registrations and renting campsites for September. Improvements to the campground include access to water, sewer, electric, and most have tent pads. Forty seven sites are available with two ADA accessible sites. Also, the nearby River Trail, which can be accessed from the campground, has reopened. For prices or to reserve a campsite, call 285-3113 or visit Arkansas state parks.com. So far this year, 394 diamonds have been found at the Crater of Diamonds State park with several being found in August.  

COLLINFEST 2010 COMING TO DE QUEEN OCTOBER 2ND           8/30/10

Collinfest 2010 is coming to De Queen on Saturday, October 2nd.  De Queen native Collin Raye will return to De Queen and be the first major act at the new CCCUA De Queen Amphitheater.  Special Guest this year will be Jamie O’Neal who has had such hits as “There is no Arizona ”, “Shiver”, “When I Think About Angels”, and “Somebody’s Hero”.

Tickets for the concert are on sale at KDQN Studios.  Reserved seats are $20 each and general admission is $10.  Children age 5 and under are free with an adult for general admission only.  General admission attendees will need to bring a blanket or lawn chair.

Tickets may be purchased with a credit/debit card by calling 642-2446 or 898-3624.  There will be a $1 per ticket handling fee for all credit/debit card orders.    (Seating Chart)

FIRE DESTROYS HOME NEAR DE QUEEN LAKE    8/31/10

A fire destroyed a home on Mountain View Road near De Queen Lake Monday evening. 

The Gillham fire department responded and the De Queen Fire Department responded with mutual aid.  The home was fully engulfed at the time of arrival and the home was a total loss.  De Queen responded with 20 firefighters and 3 trucks.  No one was at home at the time of the fire. It is believed the fire started from a lightening strike.  The home belonged to Billy and Nancy Wilson and was located at 114 Mountain View Road in De Queen.  

SEVIER COUNTY RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION BOIL WATER ORDER 8/31/10

Bryan Martz of the Sevier County Water Association has issued a boil water order for residents from De Queen Lake road north to King Road .  The boil water order is due to lightening strikes on two water lines.  Customers should boil all water that will be used for consumption briskly for two minutes and dispose of any ice that has been made by an automatic ice maker.  As a precautionary measure, you also need to check the color before washing clothes.    All rural water customers north of De Queen Lake Road need to conserve water for the next 24 hours to allow the water tank to refill to a normal capacity.  The boil water order will last until further notice.

IDABEL MAN ARRESTED IN SEVIER COUNTY FOR POSSESSION    8/31/10

An Idabel, OK man was arrested and charged with possession in Sevier County during a traffic stop.  

According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s office, Deputies Wendall Randall and Clayton Yates were patrolling the Lockesburg area when then noticed a vehicle that appeared to have illegal window tinting.  The driver was identified as 31 year old Eley Odom.  Upon further investigation officers discovered a small bag of suspected marijuana.  The baggie was hidden inside a Burger King sack sitting on the front seat.  The driver admitted the marijuana was his.  Odom was placed into custody and transported to the Sevier County Jail where he was charged with possession of a controlled substance, marijuana.

MURFREESBORO SEEKS TO ANNEX DIAMOND MINE   8/31/10

The city of Murfreesboro wants to extend its boundaries to take in Crater of Diamonds State Park.

Patrons at the popular park dig for diamonds and keep what they find.

Park Superintendent Justin Dorsey says it would be easier for the park to operate if Murfreesboro approves the annexation. The change would provide city services to the park, such as police and fire protection.

Several other state parks are within the borders of cities.

A public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Sept. 20 at the Pike County Courthouse. If no one objects, the county can approve the proposal and submit to the state to make the merger official.

CONGRESSMAN MIKE ROSS TO HAVE TOWN HALL MEETING         8/31/10

Congressman Mike Ross will host a town hall meeting today beginning at 11:15 a.m.    The meeting will be held at CCCUA in the Agriculture Building at 183 College Drive in De Queen.  Everyone is welcome to come out and speak to the Congressman.

LAWMAKERS WITHDRAW RECOMMENDATION OF $69 M FOR SCHOOLS 8/31/10

Lawmakers are backing away their recommendation to increase the per-student funding Arkansas schools receive from the state by $69 million next year.

A legislative panel on Monday withdrew its recommendation to increase the per-student funding amount by 2.5% for the 2011-2012 school year. Lawmakers on the panel said they need more time to study whether that is an adequate amount to fund education in the state.

The subcommittee faces a Wednesday deadline to issue its report on school funding, and plans to meet again Tuesday. Chairmen of the panel said it's possible that they may recommend an amount that could be changed later.

The funding plan still needs approval from the House and Senate education committees, as well as the Joint Budget Committee.

COLLINFEST 2010 COMING TO DE QUEEN OCTOBER 2ND           8/30/10

Collinfest 2010 is coming to De Queen on Saturday, October 2^nd.  De Queen native Collin Raye will return to De Queen and be the first major act at the new CCCUA De Queen Amphitheater.  Special Guest this year will be Jamie O’Neal who has had such hits as “There is no Arizona ”, “Shiver”, “When I Think About Angels”, and “Somebody’s Hero”.

Tickets for the concert will go on sale this Wednesday, September 1^st at 9 a.m. at KDQN Studios.  There are only approximately 500 reserved seats available for the concert.  Reserved seats are $20 each and general admission is $10.  Children age 5 and under are free with an adult for general admission only.  General admission attendees will need to bring a blanket or lawn chair.

Tickets will be sold first come first served and there is a waiting list for tickets.  Those who are present at KDQN at 9 a.m. Wednesday morning will get first shot at tickets.  The waiting list will then be filled. Tickets will go on sale by phone starting at 10:30 a.m. by calling 642-2446 or 898-3624 and using your credit/debit card.  There will be a $1 per ticket handling fee for all credit/debit card orders.  

 VANDERVOORT WOMAN KILLED IN TWO VEHICLE ACCIDENT 8/27/10

A Vandervoort woman was killed in a two vehicle accident just north of De Queen around midnight Friday morning.

According to Arkansas State Police, 19 year old Amanda McAllister of Winthrop was traveling southbound on hwy 71.  McAllister stated to the trooper that she fell asleep while driving.  Her 2004 Honda Accord traveled across the centerline and struck a northbound 2001 Pontiac Van driven by 49 year old Tonya Robb of Vandervoort.  The accident was reported at 12:32 a.m. Friday morning.  Robb was pronounced at the scene by Sevier County Coroner Lawrence Chandler.  McAlister was cited for traveling left of center.  There were three passengers in Robb’s vehicle; one was air-lifted to Texarkana the other two were transported to De Queen Medical Center by ambulance.  McAlister was also transported to De Queen Medical Center by ambulance for treatment. 

DE QUEEN MAN SENTENCED TO ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS                    8/27/10

A De Queen man has been sentenced on five counts of residential burglary and theft of property.

According to reports, 25 year old Michael Philipe appeared before Circuit Court Judge Tom Cooper Thursday.  Philipe received 15 years with three years suspended on a residential burglary, 10 years on a theft of property charge, 6 years on a possession of firearms by certain persons charge, 10 years on 2 counts of theft of property and 12 years on another residential burglary charge.  All charges are to run concurrently.  Philipe was returned to the Sevier County Jail where he awaits transfer to the Arkansas Department of corrections.

DE QUEEN WOMAN RECEIVED 15 YEARS IN ADC         8/27/10

A De Queen woman was sentenced to 15 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections for manufacturing a controlled substance.

According to reports, 50 year old Gerri Wells appeared before Judge Tom Copper in Sevier County Circuit Court Thursday.  Wells was charged with manufacturing a controlled substance, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, and possession of firearms by certain persons.   Wells was sentenced to 15 years on the manufacturing charge and the other two charges were nolle prosessed.  Wells was also ordered to forfeit her 2008 Toyota Tundra pickup.  Wells remains in the Sevier County Jail where she will await transfer to the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

LOTTERY VENDING MACHINES HEADED TO RETAIL OUTLETS 8/27/10

Vending machines that dispense lottery tickets are headed to Arkansas retailers after a legislative committee reviewed rules governing the machines but took no action.

The Arkansas Lottery Commission Legislative Oversight Committee met Thursday and heard complaints about the new machines, but the panel isn't authorized to approve or deny rules regarding the machines. Under state law, the authority rests with the Arkansas Lottery Commission, which gave its approval earlier this month.

Opponents say the machines are one step closer to slot-machine-style gambling, and an automated machine makes it easier for minors to buy and cash in lottery tickets.

But lottery director Ernie Passailaigue says the machines require the buyer to swipe a government-issued ID, and they can only be placed in locations with a clerk or cashier on hand to oversee transactions.

PARTS OF ALBERT PIKE RECREATION AREA REOPEN FRIDAY - 8/27/10

Two areas of the Albert Pike Recreation area that were closed after a deadly flash flood in June are set to reopen. The U.S. Forest Service says the areas reopening today will be for day use only. Officials are still considering whether overnight camping will ever be allowed again. The two areas being reopened include access to a popular swimming area on the west side of the Little Missouri River . Also, those that were impacted by the flood can still collect personal belongings at the Pike County Fairgrounds today and tomorrow from 8 until 4:30 and also on September 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th.

LOCAL PLEADS GUILTY TO DRUG CHARGES - 8/27/10

A Nashville man plead guilty Wednesday in Howard County Circuit Court to Delivery and Possession of Marijuana. 22 year old Justin Byers was recently arrested following a search of his vehicle that turned up marijuana during a traffic stop. He also was arrested after selling marijuana to an undercover police officer in April. Byers has had numerous prior drug possession charges. He will serve five years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

LOCKESBURG MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO CHARGES - 8/27/10

A Lockesburg man has pleaded guilty to a felony count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine. 41 year old James Litchford was arrested last year after police conducted a traffic stop of his vehicle and found several items normally used in the manufacturing of meth. Litchford will serve five years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

INFORMATION NEEDED              08/26/10

De Queen Schools and Police Department are asking if anyone knows who ran into the fence surrounding the practice field at the football stadium sometime between 9 pm Friday night and 6 am Saturday morning to contact the School administration office at 584-4312 or De Queen Police Department at 642-2210.

Local Service Heroes Needed to Stitch The National 9/11 Flag       08/26/10

Historic Stitching Ceremony at State Capitol to repair American Flag destroyed on 9/11 will include FDNY Firefighters and local volunteers.

Destroyed in the collapse of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 and stitched back together seven years later by tornado survivors in Greensburg, Kansas, The National 9/11 Flag is a living testament to the resilience and compassion of the American people. It is the modern day version of The Star Spangled Banner. The New York Says Thank You Foundation is currently taking The National 9/11 Flag on a journey across America where local service heroes in all 50 states will be given the historic privilege of stitching the flag back to its original 13‐stripe format using pieces of fabric from American flags destined for retirement in each state. Once the flag is restored and made whole again by the 10th Year Anniversary of 9/11, The National 9/11 Flag will become a part of the permanent collection of The National September 11 Memorial Museum being built at Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan.

On Sept. 1, The National 9/11 Flag will make its way to Little Rock, AR where FDNY firefighters will assist local service heroes in an historic stitching ceremony and help sew the Arkansas patch onto The National 9/11 Flag.

The New York Says Thank You Foundation is asking local civic organizations and the public to nominate local service heroes in the community who deserve the honor of stitching The National 9/11 Flag. Nominees can be people of all ages who are shining examples of service and sacrifice to their local communities and to the Nation and may be a wounded warrior, military veteran, first responder, educator, student, or volunteer service leader.

The mission of The New York Says Thank You Foundation is to commemorate the generosity extended to New Yorkers by Americans from all across the country in the days, weeks, and months following September 11, by sending volunteers from New York City each year on the 9/11 Anniversary to help rebuild communities around the United States affected by disasters. The New York Says Thank You Foundation is proud to be the national custodian for The National 9/11 Flag. For more info, see www.NewYorkSaysThankYou.org or www.National911Flag.org

SHERIFF’S OFFICE INVESTIGATING BREAK-IN            8/26/10

The Sevier County Sheriff’s office is investigating a residential burglary that occurred in Horatio.  According to reports, Richard Jackson reported that someone had broken into his residence at 104 West Barnhart in Horatio.  The residence was last checked at 1 p.m. on Sunday, August 22 and everything was fine.  

On Tuesday, August 24^th at 3 p.m. a window on the north side of the home had been broken out.  Every room in the home had been gone through and trashed.  Jackson was working in Little Rock when the incident occurred and had his brother watching the home.  Several items were missing from the home including televisions as well as part of the cover from the beds. An investigation is continuing. 

DE QUEEN MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION             8/26/10

A De Queen man has been arrested and charged with possession after being stopped for a seat belt violation.  According to the De Queen Police Department, Officer Ernesto Echevarria was on patrol near Redman Cemetery when he observed a maroon Taurus and the Driver was not wearing a seat belt.  Echevarria perform a traffic stop and identified the driver as being 30 year old Andrew Kyle Bergum of De Queen.  

Further investigation revealed that Bergum had a smoking devise in his pocket and the officer also found Marijuana seeds in the floorboard of the vehicle. Bergum was placed into custody and transported to the Sevier County Jail where he was charged with possession of instruments of crime. 

ARKANSAS AG ENCOURAGE EXTENSION OF CHILD TAX CREDIT  8/26/10

Arkansas law enforcement officials have joined a campaign to encourage Congress to extend a federal child tax credit that's set to expire at the end of the year.

Attorney General Dustin McDaniel and several Arkansas police chiefs are supporting an initiative that says children in low-income homes are more likely to become involved in crime as they grow older. A $1,000-per-child tax credit is set to expire at the end of the year, and the group is urging Congress to extend the benefit.

Now, anyone earning $3,000 annually can claim the tax credit. If it expires, that level will rise to nearly $13,000 per household.

The group, Fight Crime: Invest in Kids, which supports the initiative, says the current child tax credit benefits more than 225,000 children in Arkansas .

GIRL SCOUT RALLIES TO BE HELD IN DE QUEEN AND LOCKESBURG        08/30

Girl Scouts Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas Pine Needles Service Unit will be having registration rallies at De Queen Elementary School Cafeteria on August 30th starting at 5:30 till 7pm and at Lockesburg Elementary on September 9th starting at 5:30 till 7pm .. If you are interesting in your child being a Girl Scout or helping with a troop as an Adult Volunteer then come out to see us. If you are not able to attend one of these rallies, you can contact Shannon Strother at 870-784-1270 or Crystal McDonald at 870-582-2692 for more information.  

HOWARD COUNTY ARRESTS ONE FOR DELIVERY OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE            8/25/10

A Mineral Springs man was arrested and charged with delivery of a controlled substance.  According to the Howard County Sheriff’s office, on August 23rd Deputy John Eric Glidewell and Investigator David Shelton arrested 30 year old Mario Booth for two counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance--Marijuana. The felony warrants were issued as a result of undercover drug buys conducted by the South Central Drug Task Force on February 16 and February 23, 2010 . Mario Booth resides at 521 Barton Bethel Rd., Mineral Springs, AR. Booth remains in the Howard County Jail and his bond has been set at $50,000.

LEGISLATIVE SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDS ADDITIONAL $69 MILLION FOR SCHOOLS 8/25/10

A legislative subcommittee will recommend that Arkansas ’ public schools receive an additional $69 million in per-student funding next year.

The Joint Adequacy Evaluation Oversight Subcommittee voted Tuesday to recommend that the state Legislature increase per-student and categorical funding for public schools by 2.5 percent in the 2011-12 fiscal year.

The panel also said it will recommend a 2.9 percent increase for the 2012-13 fiscal year. The Legislature will review that year’s increase during the 2012 fiscal session and can modify it then if necessary.

The panel based its recommendations on inflation indicators presented by the Bureau of Legislative Research.
The subcommittee also decided to recommend a new approach to transportation funding in an effort to help rural school districts struggling with high transportation costs.

Under the recommendation, per-student transportation funding would be frozen at the current level of $297. The House and Senate education committees will meet Monday to review the subcommittee’s recommendations and decide whether to make any changes before passing them on to the Joint Budget Committee.  

NASHVILLE CITIZENS FORM UPLIFT GROUP     08/25/10

A dedicated group of leaders, concerned for the well-being of Nashville residents have formed Project UPLIFT.

Project UPLIFT (Unity, People, Love, Integrity, Family, Teaching) is wanting to make a difference to the citizens of Nashville and surrounding areas.  This group met last week on the campus of Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas.  The group approved the final draft of the Project UPLIFT survey that is now available to complete on the Cossatot website: http://cccua.edu.

In order to serve and benefit the most people, the directors of project UPLIFT want to know what the citizens of the area think would be the most important addition or enhancements to our community, if funds were able to be raised.  Once the survey data is collected, UPLIFT directors will then pursue the best way to make the selections reality.

The group members who met were: Mayor Mike Reese, Mayor-Elect Billy Ray Jones, Cossatot Chancellor Steve Cole, Sandra Jones, and Gary Wenta.

To access the survey, residents can go to http://cccua.edu and then click on the PROJECT UPLIFT SURVEY link. The survey will only take a minute or less to complete.

GIRL SCOUT RALLIES TO BE HELD IN DE QUEEN AND LOCKESBURG.      08/25/10

Girl Scouts Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas Pine Needles Service Unit will be having registration rallies at De Queen Elementary School Cafeteria on August 30th starting at 5:30 till 7pm and at Lockesburg Elementary on September 9th starting at 5:30 till 7pm..  If you are interesting in your child being a Girl Scout or helping with a troop as an Adult Volunteer then come out to see us.  If you are not able to attend one of these rallies, you can contact Shannon Strother at 870-784-1270 or Crystal McDonald at 870-582-2692 for more information.  

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MEETING HELD        08/25/10

Around 40 business leaders attended the economic development forum held Tuesday evening at CCCUA's Agriculture building in De Queen. 

Items discussed included an opportunity for an entrepreneur to start a transit system between De Queen and Nashville that could be utilized by Husqvarna employees traveling to work at Nashville as well as providing service for the general public.

CCCUA Chancellor Steve Cole updated the group on actions that have already been taken: 

A group met with Husqvarna management to find out how we could best provide transportation for our residents whose jobs were transferring to Nashville.  They agreed to conduct a transportation survey to ascertain if a mass transit system would be utilized by their employees if provided at a reasonable cost.  A group has also met with a Governor's task force to determine if there were any grants available to assist with the project. 

Another group met with Shane Broadway who works for the Saline County Economic Development Corporation.  He offered share his ideas on ways to attract and retain business and industry in Sevier County.

Mayor McKelvy reported that the City of De Queen, the County of Sevier and the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce were sharing the cost of getting a new website designed.  This is one of the most accessible ways to market our area nationally and internationally. 

Scott Sullivan volunteered to compile a list of Arkansas businesses who may be thinking of expanding their operation into other areas of the state. 

Ray Still gave an update on activity at the Industrial Park.  A new business is open soon and an agreement to build a cell phone tower has been signed.

An Economic Development Board is being formed.  If you would like to volunteer to be on the board, please contact Patty Sharp at 870-642-2212 or e-mail Steve Cole at scole@cccua.edu

If you would like more information about the business opportunity starting a bus transit program contact Mayor Billy Ray McKelvy for more details at 870-584-3445.

TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT CLAIMS LIFE - 8/24/10

An accident Tuesday morning on Highway 70 claimed the life of a Dierks man.  According to Arkansas State Police Trooper Pete Penny, 39 year old Shane Eudy was killed when his east bound pick up truck crossed the center line and collided head on with an empty log truck. The truck was driven by 29 year old Charles Legg of Kirby.  

Police say Eudy was pronounced dead at the scene by the Howard County Coroner's Office. Legg was not injured. The accident happened around 6 a.m. Tuesday approximately two miles west of Dierks.

DE QUEEN MAN ARRESTED FOR DWI                 8/24/10

A De Queen man has been arrested and charged with DWI after the officers receive a report of shots fired.  According to the De Queen Police Department, Officer Bobby Bagley was dispatched to a residence on Red Bridge Road on a report of shots fired.   Upon arrival, Bagley spoke with the resident who stated that someone in a maroon Ford F-150 pickup drove in front of her home and fired approximately three shots and took off traveling south toward Hwy 41.  

While speaking with the victim, a vehicle fitting that description drove back by and the victim stated it was the same vehicle.  Bagley preformed a traffic stop and identified the driver as being 43 year old James McDougal of De Queen.  When asked, McDougal stated to the officer that he had not been drinking but he had a PBT result of 0.15. McDougal was transported to the Sevier County Sheriff’s office and had a BAC test result of 0.133.  He failed several field sobriety tests.  He was charged with DWI #3.  He was also driving on a suspended license for his prior DWI’s.

GILLHAM MAN ARRESTED FOR THEFT               8/24/10

A Gillham man was arrested and charged with theft of property after a deputy observed him loading railroad iron into a Ford Ranger pickup.  According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, Lt Chris Wolcott was patrolling the Gillham area when he noticed a pickup sitting beside the KCS railroad tracks and someone loading something into the back of the truck.  He identified the men as 43-year-old Shannon House and 66-year-old Mitchell Riley both of Gillham.  

When the deputy asked House what they were doing, House replied that they were helping with the Gillham beautification project by loading up all the old metal on the railroad.  Both men were arrested and transported to the Sevier County Jail where they were charged with theft of property.  

Another 20 fires fought over weekend in Arkansas     8/24/10

The state Forestry Commission says firefighters battled another 20 wildfires in Arkansas over the weekend.

A news release from the commission Monday says the weekend fires blackened 89 acres. The commission said later in the day that seven more fires, covering 73 acres, were suppressed on Monday.

According to the commission, the total number of wildfires since Aug. 1 is now 197. Those blazes covered 1,911 acres.

As the August heat continues, the commission said the wildfire danger across Arkansas is moderate to high for the entire state.

Possibly tainted meats sold at Wal-Mart recalled                 8/24/10

A federal agency says 380,000 pounds of possibly tainted deli meat products sold in sandwiches at Wal-Mart stores have been recalled by a food company in Buffalo .

The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service says Tuesday that roast beef and ham distributed to Wal-Mart delicatessens might be contaminated with Listeria bacteria.

Agency spokesman Gary Mickelson says no illnesses have been linked to the meats made by Zemco Industries and most have already been consumed. The sandwiches were removed from store shelves.

Mickelson says a retail sample collected in Georgia tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. The organism can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people.

REPARATIONS MADE TO 134 CRIME VICTIMS            8/24/10

Attorney General Dustin McDaniel says the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board has made $286,500 in reparations payments to 134 crime victims.

A news release from McDaniel's office said those payments were made in July. The announcement said additional expenses were paid in 67 previously submitted cases.

The state's victim reparations program provides compensation for unexpected expenses incurred by victims of crime, including medical treatment, mental health counseling, lost wages, replacement services and funeral expenses. Last year, the board awarded $3,821,954.01 in claims to 1,738 recipients.  

ASHDOWN SCHOOLS BACK IN FULL SWING       08/23/10

NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH MEETING     08/24/10

The local Neighborhood Crime Watch is having a meeting Tuesday, August 24th at the Community Building located in the Herman Dierks Park in De Queen.  it will start at 6:00 p.m.

There have been a series of neighborhood watch meetings in De Queen and over the county so as to get a functioning program "up and running".  it looks very encouraging following the meetings last week in Lockesburg and Horatio.  There was not a huge turnout at some of these gatherings, but those who did attend have committed to start watch activities in their area.

There is not a lot of work required for those involved since it is basically keeping an eye open as to suspicious activities going on in your neighborhood.  If you see anything unusual, you should be a license plate number or description of the vehicle or person being observed.  one would then report that information to law enforcement if it looks to be urgent.  if id does not see that critical, then simply write that information on a piece of paper along with the time and date and file it for future use.

The meeting is open to the public.  For more information contact the De Queen Police Department of the Sevier County Sheriff's office.

TWO TEXARKANA RESIDENTS ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION                  8/23/10

In a joint effort of law enforcement agencies around the area, two Texarkana residents were arrested and charged with possession.

According to Lt Mike Wilson of the Sevier County Sheriff’s office, Deputy Clayton Yates received information that a narcotics delivery was scheduled to be delivered to De Queen. 

Yates contacted Robert Gentry with the South Central Drug Task Force and Scott Bradshaw with Arkansas State Police Narcotics Division. 

During the investigation it was determined that the suspects lived in Texarkana. Gentry in turn contacted the Bi-State Drug Task Force in Texarkana who set up surveillance on a residence on Walnut Street in Texarkana, TX.  While watching the home, officers noticed the suspects leave carrying a white bag. They were traveling on hwy 71 north. 

Pending a review by the prosecuting attorney, Nelson and Collins face charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, cocaine, and possession of a controlled substance marijuana with intent to deliver, and simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms. 

 Agencies involved in the arrest included, the Sevier County Sheriff’s office, South Central Drug Task Force, Arkansas State Police, Bi-State Drug Task Force, and the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.

UMPIRE RESIDENT INJURED IN VEHICLE/TRACTOR ACCIDENT –8/23/10

An Umpire man was treated over the weekend for injuries he received when his tractor was struck by a vehicle.  Police reports say 53 year old Dennis Kitchens was traveling on Highway 278 in Umpire around 4 o'clock Saturday afternoon when his 1996 Massey Ferguson tractor was struck from behind by a Buick Lasabre. The car's driver, 59-year-old Roger Sharp of Charleston, told deputies he fell asleep. 

The impact of the accident caused the tractor to travel more than 50 feet and overturn in the ditch. Kitchens was transported by the Lifenet helicopter to St. Michael's Hospital in Texarkana while Sharp was brought to Howard Memorial Hospital by private vehicle. Howard County Sheriff's deputy Joey Davis said Sharp was given a ticket for following too close.

FORMER TYSON FOODS EMPLOYEE CHARGED WITH BEING AN ACCOMPLICE TO THEFT OF PROPERTY –8/23/10

A former supervisor with Tyson Foods in Nashville has been charged with being an accomplice to theft of property. 53 year old Franklin Danny White of Nashville is accused of using his position to put extra overtime pay on the checks of three employees who did not do the extra work. Nashville Police Investigator Larry Marion said two of the employees told police they were paid for extra work they did not perform...and then gave a portion of the extra pay back to White. Marion said the alleged theft occurred over a 5 to 6 week period..with Tyson officials reporting more than 4 thousand 165 dollars being paid out through the extra overtime.

OZAN RESIDENT FACING FELONY CHARGES IN HEMPSTEAD AND HOWARD COUNTIES – 8/23/10

An Ozan resident is facing felony charges in Hempstead and Howard counties following his arrest Thursday afternoon.

37 year old Steven Nelson was detained on charges in Nashville for delivery of a controlled substance--cocaine. Nashville Police Department narcotics officer David Stinson said Nelson's arrest was the result of an undercover operation conducted this summer by the local police department and South Central Drug Task Force.

Police say they also seized Nelson's 1992 Chevrolet Blazer. In addition to the charges in Nashville , Nelson is also facing numerous felony counts in Hempstead county..where deputies and personnel with the drug task force executed a search warrant Thursday afternoon at Nelson's residence, located at 213 County Road 58 near Ozan.

As a result of the search warrant, police say they recovered suspected crack cocaine and a defaced firearm. Nelson's charges in Hempstead county will include possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver--cocaine, possession of a defaced firearm, possession of a firearm by certain persons, and two counts of cocaine delivery. Nelson was detained in the Hempstead County jail following his arrest.

MINERAL SPRINGS RESIDENT ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGES –8/23/10

A Mineral Springs resident was arrested Friday for felony drug charges.  According to Howard County Sheriff Butch Morris, deputies arrested 32 year old Timothy Green on a warrant issued as a result of an undercover drug buy conducted by the South Central Drug Task Force on April 5th. At the time of Green's arrest he was found to be in possession of marijuana. 

As a result he has been charged with Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Crack Cocaine.  Green is currently in the Howard County Jail and has a bond of $50,000.

August 23-28 is  fair week in sevier county       08/18/10

There are some special events and deadlines coming up that you need to be aware of in connection with the Sevier County Fair, Livestock Show & Rodeo.

The Fair and Rodeo Pageants will all be held Saturday, August 21^st at the Fair Grounds Exhibits Hall. 

If you are interested in entering the Professional Dodge (CRRA-ARA-UPRA sanctioned) Rodeo as a contestant, you may register on Monday, August 23^rd between 5 & 10 pm by calling 580-244-3121.

Faye Janes is asking for volunteers to help in the Education Building.  If would like to help call 8770-642-4566.

Admission to the fairgrounds is $2 per person.  You may purchase a pass that gets you in all week for just $5.  They will have them for sale this Saturday, August 21^st at the Fair office or you may purchase one at the gate next week.

There are lots of new food vendors this year.

Special arm bands will be on sale for $5 during School Day Wednesday afternoon from 1 until 4 pm.  Carnival arm bands will be available from 7 until 10 each night Wednesday through Saturday for $15. 

The 4-H & FFA Premium sale will be held Friday, August 27^th from 10 am until noon.  Money raised is a tax deductible donation by the buyers to the 4-H and FFA exhibitors of Sevier County.

Click here for Fair Book

TEXARKANA MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION IN DE QUEEN      8/20/10

A Texarkana man has been arrested and charged with possession in De Queen after he was stopped for speeding.  According to the De Queen Police Department, Officer Ernesto Echevarria was on hwy 329 running radar when he clocked a vehicle traveling 51 in a 35 mph zone.  Echevarria stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as being Beverly Hawkins and the passenger as being 33 year old Michael Johnson of Texarkana.  Johnson had an outstanding warrant out of Howard County.  He was placed into custody.  

by Amanda Williams

FIRES CONSUME OVER 1500 ACRES IN ARKANSAS               8/18/10
The Arkansas Forestry Commission says its crews have battled blazes this month that charred 1,574 acres.

The agency said in a news release Tuesday that the acreage burned by wildfires since Aug. 1 occurred during the course of 151 fires to which its crews responded.

The mid-afternoon release said the total included 21 fires fought since 3:30 p.m. Monday that covered 238 acres.

The agency said county judges have issued burn bans in Ashley, Chicot, Clark , Columbia , Conway , Dallas , Garland , Hempstead , Hot Spring, Howard, Jefferson , Johnson, Lafayette , Lincoln , Miller, Monroe , Nevada , Ouachita, Phillips, Pike, Polk, Pope, Prairie, Pulaski, Saline, Searcy, Sharp, St. Francis, Van Buren, and White counties. According to the commission, the wildfire danger is moderate to high for the entire state.

THEFT UNDER INVESTIGATION –8/18/10

The theft of several items from an unoccupied home near Umpire is under investigation by the Howard County Sheriff's Department. Mary Schumaker of Greenville , Texas reported to deputy Randy Bohn that her vacation home on Highway 278 West of Umpire was broken into recently. Deputy Bohn's report says a tv, dvd player, several hand tools, and a light fixture were taken from the residence. The report said the items were taken sometime in the past month.

GOVERNOR MIKE BEEBE RELEASES 5.9 MILLION FOR SCHOLARSHIPS             8/18/10

Gov. Mike Beebe has directed the state Department of Higher Education to release an additional $5.9 million in lottery proceeds to fund college scholarships for nontraditional students.

Beebe said he made the decision after learning today that the state lottery’s net proceeds in its first nine months were $5.9 million higher than he had been told previously. He said higher education officials believed the lottery netted $76 million in that time, but in fact it netted $82 million.

The additional money is expected to provide scholarships for all of the 391 students on a waiting list for scholarships to attend a two-year institution and for nearly 1,000 of the 4,842 students on a waiting list for scholarships to attend a four-year institution.

Beebe noted that the only one category of students — nontraditional students — was not fully funded.

Beebe added that he may release more money if he can do so while still following the law. If he can, he will do so “as soon as possible” since classes are about to start, he said.

The cause of the confusion over the lottery’s proceeds was unclear today. Beebe said lottery officials had reported the $76 million figure to the Higher Education Department in what apparently was “a mix-up.”

DE QUEEN CITY COUNCIL MEETING                   8/18/10

The De Queen City Council met in regular session Tuesday, August 17^th with the following action being taken.

Mayor Billy Ray McKelvy informed the council members that AT&T has put in an application to construct a cell phone tower in De Queen.

McKelvy also said the police department received a JAG grant and the fire department now has a new brush truck.

The council also passed a resolution to dispose of surplus property and discussed the purchase of property adjacent to the city.  The council asked Mayor McKelvy to get more information on the property.  Council members also approved a sponsorship of the Collin Raye Concert to help with tourism to our city. 

The Chamber of Commerce and the City of De Queen invite you to a public forum to discuss how we can support and enhance economic and social development. 

This “Call to Action” economic meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 24th at 5:30 p.m. in the Agricultural Building at CCCUA.   A light meal will be served

We want to get the whole town and county involved in recruiting/retaining business in our area.  From those that attend, we would like to establish an Economic Development Committee. 

Chamber of Commerce President Patty Sharp said, "Our community is strong, but we can make it even stronger.  We want to market our community aggressively to industries of all sizes and help keep our existing industries strong.  Let's get that "old tyme community spirit." 

Please come and show support for our community and share your ideas.  We need your leadership to help inform and engage the public in economic development.

SEVIER COUNTY RODEO ROYALTY CONTESTANTS ANNOUNCED     08/17/10

Pageant will be held Saturday, August 21st, 7:30 pm at the Sevier County rodeo grounds.  Winners will be crowned on Saturday, August 28th during the Rodeo.

MARIJUANA SEEDS FOUND IN GILLHAM DRIVEWAY 8/17/10

A woman found a bag containing what she believed to be marijuana seeds in her driveway.

According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s office, Deputy Kristopher Hundley was dispatched to a residence in Gillham. Upon arrival he spoke with a female who stated that she had found a bag containing seeds that she believed to be marijuana seeds.  She said she had noticed a vehicle in her driveway the day before and when she had come back from visiting her mother she noticed a bag in a tree next to her gate.  The bag of seeds weighed 24.12 grams and were turned over to the proper authorities for proper disposal.

DE QUEEN MAN AND HORATIO WOMAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION   8/17/10    

A De Queen man and a Horatio woman were both arrested and charged with possession at the De Queen Spillway.

According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s office, Deputy Kristopher Hundley was dispatched to the Spillway to assist Arkansas Game and Fish Officer David Hall.  Upon arrival, Hall told Hundley that he had found a bag with a clear crystal like substance believed to be methamphetamine. Upon further investigation, the officers found 11 syringes, a spoon with residue and a small red straw containing residue.  The man was identified as 52 year old Noram Ray Fines of De Queen and the woman was identified as 48 year old Sandra Maureen Layden of Horatio. They told the officers that after they purchased the drugs, they went home and consumed part of what they had purchased then they decided to go fishing. Both subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Sevier County Sheriff’s office where they are charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia

SEVIER COUNTY EXTENSION OFFICE GETTING A NEW HOME     08/17/10

The Sevier County Extension office is moving to CCCUA in the new Agri building this week and will be closed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. August 18-20.

Blanche Lincoln to Highlight Record Standing Up for Arkansas Communities in Visits to De Queen &  Ashdown TODAY    08/17/10

Little Rock-Tuesday, August 17, Senator Blanche Lincoln will highlight her record standing up for Arkansas's rural communities and fighting for Arkansas jobs in visits to De Queen, Ashdown, Van Buren and Fort Smith.

Senator Lincoln will address the Sevier County Lion's Club in De Queen at 12 p.m. and deliver the keynote address at the dedication of the Little River Nursing Home & Rehab in Ashdown at 2 p.m.

Senator Lincoln will attend two local Democratic Party events Tuesday evening.  At 4:30 p.m., she will join Crawford County Democrats for an office opening in Van Buren.  At 6 p.m., Senator Lincoln will attend the Sebastian County Democratic Party's "Evening with the Senators" event.  

Tuesday, August 17 - Little Rock,  De Queen, Ashdown, Van Buren, Fort Smith

12 p.m. Sevier County Lion's Club Lunch Speaker. Fat Chance Café, 607 W. Collin Raye Drive, De Queen.

2 p.m. Little River Nursing Home & Rehab Dedication Keynote Address. Little River Nursing and Rehab Center, 162 Healthcare Dr., Ashdown.

4:30 p.m. Crawford County Democratic Party's Office Opening. 927 Main St, Van Buren.  

6 p.m. Sebastian County Democratic Party's "Evening with the Senators." Holiday Inn - Ball Room, 700 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith.

DE QUEEN SCHOOL BOARD MEETING                08/16/10 

The De Queen School Board met in regular session Monday night and approved 20 student transfers, 3 resignations, and hired 6 personnel.  The board also approved financial statements, polling places for school board elections, the Migrant Education Program and ESL handbook revisions. 

Superintendent Bill Blackwood discussed the financial statement for the district and lunchroom.  Food service is down about $30,000 from last year.  The major result of the financial drop was hiring new employees in the cafeteria expansion.  The activity funds are up about $40,000 and the district is up about $300,000 from last year. 

The floor problem in the new Middle School was fixed over the summer.  Superintendent Blackwood said the cost of the repairs totaled $49,000.  The contractor took the floor out of the affected area, fixed the ground, and has poured a new concrete flooring.  After a 45 day wait period, tile will go down on the concrete.  But, Blackwood said that everything is ready for school now. 

Student transfers included 11 from De Queen and Lockesburg to Horatio:  Brandon Crow, Ashley Parrish, Laiken & Lauren Emerson, Matthew Murphy, Matthew Harrison, Brooklyn Roberts, Blake Boykin, Dominique Carr, Steven Cook, and Carmen Contreras, 4 from Cossatot River in Wickes to De Queen:  Brentley Morris, Carrie & Brent Craver, and James Daniel Brinkley, 3 from De Queen to Nashville:  Nikobie Janes, Jewell Tatum, and W.E. Thompson, and 3 from De Queen to Dierks:  Amber Rapp and Jordan & Joshua Mixon.   

Resignations were accepted from Cafeteria Worker-Virginia Boykin and D.I. Paraprofessional-Jessica Swan.  The board hired Dana Cole & Crista Wise as D.I. Paraprofessionals, Marsha Higgins, Jewell Hill, & Lilia Sanchez in the Cafeteria, and Bobby Black as a Bus Driver. 

Over twenty-four hundred students have enrolled in the De Queen School District as of Monday, Blackwood says, with more students enrolling each day.  In Lockesburg, there are 91 students in K-6.  There will also be some minor bus route changes for Lockesburg in the new school year.  The routes will run the same, but they will run 30-40 minutes earlier than last year.  All the students will bus to Lockesburg Elementary School.  The students that are going to De Queen will then be picked up by another bus routed to De Queen.  The students will be brought back in the afternoon in the same location before returning home. 

The next regular meeting of the De Queen School Board will be Monday, September 13^th at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Building.

LOCKESBURG MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION        8/16/10

A Lockesburg man was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance during a traffic stop for a seat belt violation.

According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s office, Deputy Clayton Yates was on patrol when he noticed a driver who was not wearing a seat belt.  Yates preformed a traffic stop and identified the driver as being 48 year old Michael Dixon of Lockesburg.  Upon speaking with Dixon , Yates smelled a strong odor of alcohol coming from inside the vehicle.  Further investigation revealed a small round black container containing a glass smoking pipe and two bags of suspected methamphetamine.  Dixon was taken into custody and transported to the Sevier County Jail where he was charged with possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

7 YEAR OLD CALLS 9-1-1 TO HELP HIS MOTHER                  8/16/10

A 9-1-1 call from a seven year old resulted in the arrest of a De Queen man that had been beating up the child’s mother.

According to the De Queen Police Department, the Call came in Sunday morning around 1 a.m.  The child reported that a man was hurting his mother at 925 East Collin Raye Drive .  When Officer Larry Gibson arrived, 22 year old Troynell Theadgill of De Queen came out of the house yelling and smelled of alcohol.  Three young children also ran out of the house toward the officer.   The children’s mother also came to the door and had blood coming from her nose and her face and neck had swelling and redness.  She stated that Threadgill had tried to strangle her and had head butted her in the face causing the nose bleed.  She also had a small laceration to her head.  The victim also stated that Threadgill had been drinking and they had gotten into an argument when he came home.  Officer Gibson started to take Threadgill into custody and Threadgill started resisting arrest.  He was holding on to the door facing and yelling at the victim.  Once Gibson got Threadgill cuffed, he was then transported to the Sevier County Jail where he was charged with domestic battery in the 3^rd degree and resisting arrest. 

DE QUEEN PILOT SELECTED AS PILOT OF THE YEAR  8/16/10

Leon Harwood, pilot for the De Queen Air Evac Lifeteam crew, was selected as the 2010 Region 4 Pilot of the Year. The winner was chosen from other pilots at bases in Arkansas , Oklahoma and Missouri .

The Regional Pilot of the Year award is presented to the pilot who has exceeded job expectations by presenting a professional image, is a team player, demonstrates a desire to increase knowledge and skills, and actively pursues opportunities to promote Air Evac through community involvement.

Harwood has been a pilot with Air Evac Lifeteam since August 2006.

Air Evac Lifeteam is a membership-supported air ambulance company that provides emergency care and rapid medical transport to rural communities throughout the central U.S. The company operates 91 bases in 14 states and is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Medical Transport Services. For more information about Air Evac Lifeteam services, call 1-800-793-0010, or visit www.lifeteam.net.  

INDIVIDUALS CAN CLAIM PROPERTY LOST IN ALBERT PIKE FLOOD THIS WEEK - 8/16/10

Individuals will have the opportunity to claim recovered personal property collected and impounded by the U.S. Forest Service as a result of the Albert Pike Flood. The items will be located in the Pike County Fairground Crawford building in Glenwood. Forest Service staff will be at the fairgrounds from 8 until 4:30 August 26th through the 28th, September 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th. For more information call 501-321-5202.

REPRESENTATIVE OF SENATOR LINCOLN’S OFFICE TO BE IN DE QUEEN AND HORATIO MONDAY     8/16/10

Ashley Ridlon, Senator Lincoln’s health care adviser and a native of De Queen, and Donna Kay Yeargan, Senator Lincoln’s state director, will be in Sevier County on Monday to highlight a new law called the Elder Justice Act, which Senator Lincoln helped pass this year. They will visit the Horatio Senior Center at 1106 McCoy in Horatio at 9:30 a.m. , and they will visit the De Queen Senior Center at 605 E. Haes in De Queen at 10:30 a.m. The Elder Justice Act is intended to prevent, defect, treat, understand, and intervene in, and – where appropriate – prosecute elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. Elder Justice is the right of every older individual to be free of abuse, neglect and exploitation.

SEVIER COUNTY FARMER ’S COOP SERVICE STATION GAS PUMPS CLOSED              8/16/10

The Sevier County Farmer’s Co-op Service Station will be closing their gas pumps starting Monday, August 16^th according to manager Gary Clift.  The pumps will be closed for 4 to 6 weeks to allow new tanks, lines, and pumps to be installed. In the 4 to 6 week construction period, the co-op will have an attendant at the store downtown to assist customers with their fueling needs.  The Co-op appreciates your patience while these updates and improvements are being made at the service station on Lakeside Drive in De Queen.  Farm deliveries will not be affected by the construction and all other services will still be available at the service station.

ASHDOWN MAN ALLOWED MORE APPEALS BY FEDERAL COURT          8/13/10

A man condemned for killing his best friend and the man's wife has won a federal appeals court decision that allows him to further his appeals at the state level, even though he's lost twice at the Arkansas Supreme Court.

Timothy Lamont Howard was convicted in 1999 of capital murder the 1997 slayings of Brian and Shannon Day in Little River County. Brian Day’s body was found in an empty U-Haul trailer parked on land owned by Howard’s family near Ogden. Police found Shannon Day strangled to death when they went to her home to tell her that her husband had been shot to death. The couple’s son, then 7 months old, was discovered alive inside the home.

The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in St. Louis on Thursday agreed with Howard that he should be able to again challenge his convictions in state court.

Prosecutors argued that Howard had already had exhausted his state appeals, but Howard argued that the state sometimes allows further action in capital cases. The state Supreme Court in 2002 upheld his convictions, but on a 4-3 vote.

DE QUEEN MAN ARRESTED FOR LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT          8/13/10

A De Queen man was arrested after he left the scene of an accident Thursday morning.

According to the De Queen Police Department, Sandra Renfro of Horatio was pulling out of a parking lot directly across from the De Queen School and did not see an oncoming vehicle.   The other vehicle was a 1993 Chrysler Concorde driven by 36-year-old Jason Alexander Greenwood of De Queen.  A passenger in Greenwood’s vehicle was complaining of injuries and was transported to De Queen Medical Center for Treatment.  Officers learned that Greenwood had left the scene and Officer Amy Turner located him at a construction site near the school.   Greenwood was transported back to the scene.  He was arrested and charged with driving on a suspended license, Leaving the scene of and accident and he had an outstanding Sevier County warrant.   Damage to Renfro’s truck was estimated at $1,000 and damage to Greenwood’s car was estimated at $2,400.      

ARKANSAS LOTTERY COMMISSION TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING 8/13/10

The Arkansas Lottery Commission says it will hold a public hearing on its plan to place 100 lottery vending machines in retail outlets.

The Thursday announcement came as the anti-lottery Family Council held a news conference to demand a hearing and try to pressure the commission into waiting until the Legislature can act on the matter.

Family Council director Jerry Cox says he believes there is enough public opposition to warrant legislation that would ban the machines. Cox argues that the machines will lead to underage gambling and make it easier for compulsive gamblers to lose money.

Lottery director Ernie Passailaigue (PASS-uh-lay) has argued that the lottery needs the machines to ensure sales growth.

The hearing is set for 1 p.m. on Aug. 19.

ARKANSAS TOURISM SLIGHTLY SLOWER SO FAR           8/13/10
Arkansas tourism is clicking at a slightly slower pace in the first half of 2010, but state officials are confident that their product and message is not the problem.
Tourism tax collections, which help gauge the strength of visitors to the Natural State, are down 2.9 percent year-to-date compared to one year ago.

Arkansas' Tourism Director, Joe David Rice said the economy has  had the most impact on tourism.  Not only is the country suffering from high and chronic unemployment, the American psyche is damaged. Folks are cautious and therefore reluctant to spend money. The travel industry has been hit hard by this situation.
Through May 2010, tourism taxes stood at $4.41 million. One year ago, those tax collections were $4.53 million.
BURN BANS IN EFFECT FOR HOWARD, PIKE AND HEMPSTEAD COUNTIES - 8/13/10

Arkansas Forestry Commission crews battled seven fires in the Southwest Arkansas area on Wednesday. One major fire in Pike County burned 60 acres near Lake Greeson before it was contained. According to Michael Whelan of the AFC district office, all of the fires on Wednesday were caused by lightning strikes. He says they are anticipating more fires due to lightning and afternoon thunderstorms over the next several days. Crews also battled at least one fire yesterday in Howard County. Many counties including Hempstead, Howard and Pike remain under a burn ban. In related news, the city of Nashville set a new high temperature record Thursday at 105 degrees. The previous record was set back in 1980 at 104. 105 is currently the warmest temperature Nashville has experienced so far this year.

OZAN MAN PLEADS GUILTY IN CIRCUIT COURT -8/13/10

 An Ozan man charged with two counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Cocaine, plead guilty Wednesday in Howard County Circuit Court. 28 year old Myrone Gilliam was arrested in September of 2008 and then again in December of 2008 for selling cocaine. In both counts he unknowingly met with an undercover police officer on Front Street and sold about $30 worth of cocaine. Gilliam's sentencing is to be September 15th and he will serve 14 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

THREE REQUEST BENCH TRIALS IN CIRCUIT COURT TO BE HELD NEXT TUESDAY -8/13/10

 Three defendants Wednesday in Howard County Circuit Court requested to appear before a judge in a bench trial next week in separate cases. 23 year old Brandon Burton of Hope is charged with robbery and criminal trespass stemming from a 2009 incident, where Burton is alleged to have stolen a cell phone case and computer software from the local Wal-Mart. 38 year old Tomas Castro of Hope is charged with second degree forgery. He allegedly has been using the social security number of a Florida man. 34 year old Cornelius Ester of Ozan also requested a bench trial Tuesday and is charged with aggravated assault. Ester was arrested in September of 2009 for allegedly pulling a pistol on two individuals and hitting them. All three cases will be tried Tuesday.

Ashdown Schools Begin with “An Attitude of Excellence”          08/13/10

Ashdown School District Superintendent Mike Walker told his district employees, “It’s all about attitude:  The choices we make, make us,” as he directed the annual District Faculty Meeting and Breakfast on Thursday, August 12, in the AHS cafeteria with a program entitled “An Attitude of Excellence.” 

Walker welcomed staff and employees to the new school year and asked campus administrators to introduce new additions and announce alterations in their staffs.  In addition, District Homeless Liason Kim Befeld spoke to the group about Homeless Education Compliance, and District Services Director Dean Lillard delivered his mandatory Hazardous Materials Compliance report.

Walker closed the district meeting with a motivational presentation entitled “Talent is Never Enough,” emphasizing that Talent must be energized, activated and directed by elements of Teamwork such as Belief, Passion, Perseverance, and Responsibility.

The 2010-11 school year gets underway this week as teachers participate in staff development, campuses hold Open Houses and Meet the Teacher Nights, and students return to the classroom on Thursday, August 19. 

NEWS CREW FILMS IN DE QUEEN      08/12/10

KTBS Channel 3 film crew out of Shreveport and Texarkana shot footage today during lunch at the Ranch House Cafe in De Queen. 

The Community Caravan spoke with several diners asking why they though Sevier County was a great place to be.

Thanks to Brenda Sullivan and her crew for being such gracious hosts!

DE QUEEN SCHOOLS HOST DMEC "SUPER DAY"    08/12/10

 If you took a trip down Coulter Drive today, you would think that school was already in session. In fact, it was!..........but only for teachers.

The De Queen-Mena Educational Cooperative was hosting what we call "SUPER DAY" held at De Queen High School Auditorium. Guest speakers come yearly to give motivational words of encouragement, oftentimes engaging members of the audience to participate.

This year's keynote speaker was Bill Stainton, expert and author on The Beatles, the 1960's singing sensation, and how we as teachers could apply five basic principles that they mastered in each of our classrooms.

During a trivia contest, De Queen schools was very well represented. Each participant had to be the first to answer a question about The Beatles from the audience. These participants, however, had to complete a task on stage...they became The Beatles. Good-natured ribbing will continue for years to come from these priceless photos of Kimberly Jarrell, 3rd grade teacher; Sarah Jane Hooper, Kindergarten teacher; Steve Schlesselman, High School English; and Murray "Tuffy" Neely, High School Assistant Principal. Now who said teachers never have fun?

by Stefani Jones

Bottom two photos by Stefani Jones