Politics

From battlefield tours in Prairie Grove to sunset boat cruises in DeGray Lake, Arkansas State Parks hosts more than 42,000 educational programs, activities, and special events.

In Arkansas, there are 52 state parks in 48 counties covering 54,643 acres.

If you haven’t visited one of our state parks this summer, now is a perfect time to start planning. July is National Park and Recreation Month. And in Arkansas, we have a reason to celebrate.

Park and recreation professionals play a vital role in bringing people together, providing essential services, and fostering the growth of our communities. They make a positive impact on our state every single day. Parks help protect open spaces and natural resources. They also play a crucial role in our overall health and help to fight obesity by providing activities and resources for all people.

No matter where you live in Arkansas, a state park is nearby. The beauty of Arkansas’s parks is that they are all unique in their own way and all free for you to enjoy in your own way.

State parks include 12 swimming beaches, 37 boat launches, 9 marinas, 19 fishing piers, and access to 24 lakes and 18 rivers.

There are over 450 miles of walking and horse riding trails and the Monument Trails provide a worldclass mountain biking destination within Arkansas State Parks.

In addition to providing recreation for Arkansas families, state parks are playing an essential role in our economy. Our parks attract more than 7,600,000 visitors annually. Visitor spending to our state parks, including goods purchased from local businesses, is estimated to have a $1 billion impact every year.

We encourage you to celebrate National Park and Recreation Month by exploring our parks. You can find a list of events, trails, and accommodations at arkansasstateparks.com

Arkansas officials announced that the state is about to receive more than a billion dollars in federal funding for expanding broadband access throughout the state.

Before the end of the year, the state Broadband Office will submit a five-year plan with details of how we intend to spend the funds.

The Broadband Office is within the state Commerce Department, whose secretary called the federal grant “an economic game changer.”

In announcing the award of $1.024 billion, he reiterated what educators, economic development recruiters and public health officials in Arkansas have been saying: access to high speed Internet is not a luxury but a necessity for communities to prosper.

The governor praised the award, calling it “transformational.” It will allow Arkansas to close the digital divide between rural and urban areas, she said. It will level the playing field between isolated and urban areas, and unlock the economic potential for businesses, schools and ordinary people who live without Internet access, she said.

Officials in the Broadband Office said that a priority would be addressing the lack of Internet access in about 215,000 households and businesses across the state.

Also, some of the funding will pay for improvements at vital community centers, such as hospitals, libraries and schools. Some funding will be used to enhance training in digital skills among the workforce.

Expenditures from the broadband grant will go through the legislature’s review and appropriation process, according to the state Commerce Department’s announcement.

Under current Broadband Office guidelines and its Rural Connect Grant Program, the standard for high speed Internet is universal access with download speeds of 100 megabits per second and upload speeds of 20 Mbps.

Arkansas is one of 19 states that is due to get more than $1 billion for broadband access. Texas will receive the largest award of $3.3 billion. Nationwide, the federal Commerce Department is distributing $42.5 billion.

The federal agency within the Commerce Department that is distributing the funds is called the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. Its mission is similar to that of the Rural Electrification Administration, a federal agency that subsidized construction of transmission lines to bring power to farms across the country. In the early 1930s an estimated 90 percent of farms lacked electric power.

The cost of running power lines was too high for most rural residents. In a city, the electric utility would spread the cost of building a ten-mile power line among thousands of customers. However, in the country those same costs would be shouldered by just a few families. For that reason, government funding was essential for bringing electricity to Arkansas and rural America.

Water Projects

The state Natural Resources Commission approved $702 million in loans and grants for 122 water and waste water projects, which will benefit more than 1.2 million Arkansas residents. With some of the loans, the principle will be forgiven.

It is the largest single distribution of money for water and waste water projects in state history.

Yvonne Louise Dial Chapel Friday, June 30, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Online obituary and guest book available at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Mrs. Yvonne Louise Dial, age 62, of Mena passed away Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, to the late Hubert Leon Lee and the late Ruth Ann Lewis Lee.

Yvonne had many passions in life, she loved to be outside doing various things. Such outdoor activities included gardening, and fishing with her husband. Yvonne loved her pets, but truly loved her family and showed this love by cooking for them. She did, however, have a great like for going to haunted houses. Above all else Yvonne was a very devout Christian and loved attending her church Koinonia Christian Fellowship.

Mrs. Dial is survived by her husband, Tommy Dial of Mena; son, Dustin Atkins and wife April; daughter Christy Atkins; grandchildren, Christalyn, Dominque, Annebelle, Cameron, Aiden, and Gage; great-grandchild Miguel Mondragon; brother, Randy Lee; sister, Lisa Ganey. She is also survived by Amber, Chasidy, Taylor, Kellie, and Kim, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Mrs. Dial was preceded in death by her parents.

Services for Mrs. Dial will be held Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Beasley Wood Chapel in Mena. Brother Gene Stacks will be officiating the service.

Visitation will be at Beasley Wood

Veronica Diaz de Leon

In Loving Memory of Veronica Diaz de Leon August 20, 1975 - June 21, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Veronica, (Bearonica, to those who knew her best), who departed this world on June 21, 2023. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Born on August 20, 1975, Veronica was a remarkable woman whose presence illuminated the lives of all who knew her. She was a devoted wife, a cherished mother, a doting grandmother, and a loyal friend. Her unwavering love and selflessness were the foundations of her character, and she lived each day with a radiant smile that could brighten even the darkest of moments. Veronica was a beacon of warmth and compassion, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her gentle nature and nurturing spirit made her a natural caregiver, and she touched the lives of many with her unwavering support and guidance. She had an innate ability to make everyone around her feel valued and loved, and her acts of kindness will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to receive them.

Family was of paramount importance to Veronica. She created a loving and nurturing home, filled with laughter, joy, and profuse swear words. Her children were her pride and joy, and she showered them with unconditional love and support. As a grandmother, she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will forever be treasured.

In addition to her role as a devoted family woman, Veronica had many passions and interests. She possessed a vibrant spirit and delivered a breathtaking rendition of “Creep” by Radiohead. Whether pursuing her hobbies or engaging in the community of Mobile Legends Bang Bang, she approached life with a sense of adventure, an open heart, and an “I can do anything!” attitude.

Veronica will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us as we navigate life’s challenges and triumphs. Though she may no longer be physically present, her love and influence will forever remain a part of our lives.

As we bid farewell to Bearonica, let us remember the lessons she taught us — to love unconditionally, to embrace each day with gratitude, and to cherish the bonds of family and friendship. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to us all.

She is survived by Los Aguacates and their families; Monica Marie Lupkin (Marcus & Samuel), Oscar Edilberto Ramirez (Brooklyn, Quentin, Aspen & Adalyn), Francisco Alberto Ramirez, Marco Antonio Ramirez, and Miguel Angel Ramirez, Her mother, Maria de Je- sus Velasquez, and siblings; Milton Diaz de Leon, Maria Lourdes Velasquez, Lionel Diaz de Leon, Edilberto Diaz de Leon, Fernando Diaz de Leon.

She was preceded in death by her father Edilberto Diaz de Leon; her husband of 30 years, Oscar Ramirez Jr; and her favorite children: Izzy, Bandit, Trouble, Baby, and Piggy Smalls.

A private memorial service to celebrate the life of Veronica was held by her family on June 29th. The family is eternally grateful for the support of the community and the outpouring of love they have received during this time.

Forever in our hearts, may Veronica rest in eternal peace.

Online obituary and guest book available at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Raquel (Chavez) Tucker

Mrs. Raquel (Chavez) Tucker, age 70, passed away Monday, June 26, 2023, in Mena, Arkansas. She was born May 30, 1953, in Lucena City, Philippines, to the late Lorenzo Chavez and Juliana Bautista.

Raquel was a cook by occupation, and enjoyed crocheting, fishing, gardening, cooking and cleaning. She also loved tending to her rose garden, but above all else she loved her family.

Mrs. Tucker is preceded in death her parents, Lorenzo Chavez and Juliana Bautista and by her granddaughter Makayla James and Grandson, Brayson James.

She is survived by her loving husband, Joe Tucker; sons, David James and Richard James; grandchildren, Alexis James, Adian James, Leah James, Caleb James, and Kolton James; as well as by several brothers and sisters in the Philippines, along with several nieces and nephews.

Services for Mrs. Tucker will be held, Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at Sulphur Springs Church in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas. Interment will follow at the Sulphur Springs Cemetery in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas. Visitation will be general.

Online obituary and guest book available at beasleywoodfuneralhome. com

Madelyn Joy (Hughen) Ellison

Mrs. Madelyn Joy (Hughen) Ellison, 89, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away at her home June 30, 2023. Joy was born March 11, 1934, in Grayson, Louisiana, to the late James Cleveland and the late Maude Elizabeth (Sayes) Hughen.

Joy’s first house was on the railroad tracks in Grayson, Louisiana. She would watch for Hobos walking on the tracks from their barn loft. Her Mom would feed the Hobos in exchange for work around the house.

When Joy was 5 years old, she would stay with her Aunt Phemia and Uncle Charlie on their plantation. The sharecroppers had Saturday night barn dances. One Sunday morning Uncle Charlie was notified that there had been a killing at the dance so Joy rides with Uncle Charlie down to the quarters to pick up the suspect and take him to the sheriff.

At the age of 10, Joy and her friend would take the bus from Grayson to Columbia to go to the picture show. One day, they got out late from the movie and missed their bus, so they decided to walk the 4 miles back home. An old man stopped and offered to take them home. Joy never forgave her friend for making her sit in the middle next to the old man and his spit can.

In 1946, Joy moved to Mena and attended Central School in the 6th grade. At Mena High School, she loved being a Band Majorette.

Joy and L. G. were married December 31st, 1950, one month before L. G. shipped out to Korea for a year. Joy worked at many different businesses in Mena including the Mena Studio, Renova Shirt Factory, French’s Variety Store, Garmon Jewelry, Golden Crown and Leisure Lodge. She loved to fish and would take her middle son with her to Tom and Sid McBride’s pond near Acorn. Joy would tie him to a tree to keep him out of the water while she fished. Joy enjoyed going on camping trips in their RV and growing flowers. Joy was a longtime member of the Primitive Baptist Church of Mena. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Agnes Davis and Ruth

Orman, Brothers Bill Hughen and Junior Hughen; and son Michael Ellison.

Joy is survived by her husband of 72 years, L. G. Ellison; sons, Larry Ellison of Mena, Rick and Karen Ellison of Acorn; Granddaughters, Lindsay and Michael Pitts of Greenwood, Arkansas, Kimberly and Jason Matejek of Vesta, Arkansas; grandson, Cody Ellison of Orlando, Florida; 8 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Jane Barron of Johnson, Arkansas; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special thanks to all the nurses and doctors at Mena Regional Health System and caregiver, Mandy Huber. Joy will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Graveside service will be Monday, July 3, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Pinecrest Memorial Park with Brother Dana Kinsey officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Dorthy Jean Southern

Dorthy Jean Southern, age 92, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, June 27, 2023, in Mena. She was born January 22, 1931, in Hatfield, Arkansas, to John Kimsey Floyd and Florence Eliza (Lacey) Floyd. She was united in marriage to Victor Raymond Southern on April 3, 1952.

Dorthy loved to bowl and received many awards for her talents. She enjoyed attending state and national bowling tournaments with her special bowling friends. She worked as a vet tech for many years for Dr. Ann Hatley and Dr. Gordon McDonald. In 2004 she was honored to be chosen as the “Vet Tech of the Year” for the state of Arkansas.

Dorthy was a cattle rancher most of her adult life. In addition, she was an excellent seamstress. She made most of the school clothes for her two girls all through their childhood. She also made both of their wedding dresses and bridesmaids’ dresses. Her skills were even carried forward when she made dresses for her granddaughters.

Dorthy was a wonderful cook and baker. She made cakes or pies for all her family on their birthdays. She even made wedding cakes for her grandchildren.

She loved her cats and hated to leave her special cat and companion “Prissy.”

Dorthy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 32 years, sonin-law Kent Shrader, four brothers: Kimsey Floyd (Gladys), Marcus Floyd (Ethlyn), Howard Floyd (Josie), and Argus Floyd.

Survivors include daughters, Becky Horton (Randy), Dixie Shrader, Grandchildren Rachael Horton Hopper (Liden), Randall Horton (Sarah), Katrina Shrader Evans (David), Kendra Shrader Myers (Justin), Great Grandchildren Ruby and Remington Hopper; Bella, Layla, Dustin, Tessa and Emma Horton; Chisum and Addis Myers.

Services for Mrs. Dorthy Jean Southern will be held Friday, June 30, 2023, at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, at 10:00 a.m. Brother Donnie Jewell will be officiating. Interment will follow at the Mollie Gann Cemetery in New Potter, Arkansas. There will be a scheduled visitation Thursday, June 29, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The pallbearers are Dr. Gordon McDonald, Tommy Floyd, Ricky Yahn, Jimmy Jones, Bill Wetherington, and Phillip Hatley.

Honorary Pallbearers are Dicky, Kenny, Jimmy Don, Ronny, Donnie, Dean, and Larry Paul Floyd, Raymond Yahn, and Dr. Richard Calleton.

Online obituary and guest book available at beasleywoodfuneralhome. com