Commodities hand out at Hazen Methodist Church 10:00- noon
Monday September 1 Labor Day
Most local and county businesses will be closed
Tuesday September 2 Master Gardeners’ meeting
Sunday September 7
Grandparents Day
Monday September 8
Hazen Chamber of Commerce meeting 6:00 pm.
Tuesday September 9 Quorum Court meeting Annex Building 6:00 p.m.
Dementia Care Giver meeting 10:00 a.m. Hazen Senior Center
Thursday Septembr 18
DeValls Bluff City Council meeting 6:00 p.m.
Community events brought to you by
Please call The Grand Prairie Herald (255-4538) to list events.
for the incredible new
Her creativity, time, and dedication over the summer has brought so much life and color to the school’s hall. These murals not only brighten the building but also inspire the students and staff every day. Hilary and her husband MaShawn,, both Carlisle High School graduates and high school sweethearts, have deep roots in the Carlisle community. Their love for Carlisle continues through their children, Grant and Maggie, who are current students here at Carlisle Elementary. (Courtesy of Carlisle Elementary.)
DeVa ll s B l uff Counci l discusses anima l contro l
By Lisa Mills
The DVB City Council met on August 14th. Mayor Darlene Connor, Recorder/Treasurer Marcus Metcalf, and council members Alice Metcalf, Pam DelGiorno, Shirley Goff, Scott Troy, Carol Griffin, and Raymond Watson were present.
Mayor Connor reported that she had spoken to Hazen Mayor David Hardke about having their animal control officer pick up dogs in DeValls Bluff. She said that Hardke agreed to work with DVB on the basis of the officer responding to calls to pick up dogs, but would not be able to patrol for dogs or be available on a regular basis. Hardke also said that the dogs could be housed at Hazen’s shelter. Connor asked the council what they thought. Everyone agreed that this was a good idea for now. Connor suggested that the officer be paid for each time he comes, not a set amount. Everyone agreed. Connor said that she would talk to Hardke again and pres-
ent a proposal next month.
Rick and Chris Harrell sent Connor an email offering $5,000 to buy the old hotel. They said that they want to apply for grants and other funding for money to restore the building, but can’t do so without the property being in their name. They also said that they would like to see inside the old Fire/Police Department to make an offer on it.
Metcalf stated that she would be interested in selling the hotel, but not the other building. DelGiorno said she would be interested.Scott said he would be interested in selling the hotel and wasn’t sure about the other. Metcalf said that if they vote to sell the hotel, the buyers have to state, in writing, what their plans are and when work will start. Connor asked Attorney Mike Stuart if they could do that. Stuart said that the first thing that needs to take place is for the buyers to make a formal written offer. He also said that the city would
Car l is l e El ementary h as ne w principa l
Carlisle School District is proud to introduce our new Elementary School Principal, Hope Bratton. Hope comes to us from the small town of Jesseville, AR where she has spent the majority of her life. She is a graduate of Henderson State with her Bachelor’s in Elementary Ed K-6 and Master’s in Administration P-12
Ed.S. She received a superintendency license from Arkansas State University and a doctorate in Supervisional Leadership from Arkansas Tech University. She has several years of experience in administration in the ALE setting, and is currently teaching 5th grade at Fountain Lake.
have to decide if you want to get an appraisal or a market analysis appraisal where realtors give you their opinion of the value, which is cheaper than an appraisal.
Police Chief Jeremy Murphy reported two arrests and eight traffic citations. He said that along with possibly using Hazen’s dog catcher, the city ordinance referring to dogs needs to be looked at and any updates made, so the ordinance can be enforced when a dog is
picked up. The Fire Department reported no major activity in July. They also reported that a $15,000 grant has been received for a tornado siren. The grant is a 50/50 match with the city paying $15,000.
School Superintendent Andy Barrett informed the council and audience of a new technology at the school. It is a huge touch screen that anyone can use to look up former class composites and other info like former homecoming roy-
alty or athletes, etc. He said that several people are working on submitting pictures and info and he would like to have someone in DVB to submit class composite pictures and other info from the DVB schools. Lee Robert Rhoden spoke to the council and audience about “DeValls Bluff Days”. The event will be held October 4th, beginning at Noon. There will be food and craft vendors, games, music, etc. For more information, call Rhoden at (901)494-1483.
Prairie County Quorum gets updates on county projects
The August 12 meeting of the Prairie County Quorum Court was called to order by Judge Holloway, and those in attendance were Justice Calhoun, Justice Payne, Justice Eans, Justice Childress, Justice King, Justice Stallings, Justice Willeford and Justice Hooks. Justice Smith was absent. Judge Holloway reported on the water project in DeValls Bluff on the South end of the
County. They are starting to build a new tier where the water will go under the road, and are going to make an overpass. The construction over Highway 70 will begin soon.
The county is under a burn ban effective as of August 12. The Road Department is starting to patch some potholes in the blacktop roads. The dam on Brown Acres road is now finished, Holloway said. Budget committee will be scheduled this first week of September. Ordinance 2025-13, an Ordinance to amend Ordinance 2025-1, was passed. It changes the annual operating budget for calendar year 2025 for the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant in the amount of $2,352.00. With no other business, the meeting adjourned.
Volume 124 Number 34 - USPS 225-680 Serving all of Prairie
Hazen library has craft day. ( See page 6.)
The Carlisle Elementary sent a heartfelt thank you to Hilary James, a proud Carlisle alumna,
murals throughout the school.
Ray Bell
Ray Bell, age 64, of Des Arc, AR, peacefully passed away at his home on August 13, 2025. Born on October 27, 1960, in Stuttgart, Ray was the cherished son of the late Marjorie L. West.
He was a loving brother, a dedicated worker, and a passionate sports fan. He attended Des Arc Schools, graduating in the class of 1979. Upon graduation, he began a long, industrious career that spanned several decades and industries. Ray worked for Riceland Foods for 4 years, then he spent 18 years working on the Riverboat followed by Union Pacific Railroad for over 21 years, contributing his hard work and dedication to the company. His work ethic was unmatched.
In his spare time, Ray sought solace in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing and was a die-hard Razorback fan. The joy he found in watching sports on television was only surpassed by the thrill he felt when casting a line into the water.
Ray attended the First Baptist Church as a young boy. He was preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie L. West, grandmother and his twin brother, Clay Bell. He leaves behind his broth-
er, Lynn Bell and sisterin-law, Judy of Cabot, AR. As we bid farewell to Ray, we remember him as a man of strong character and an unmatched love for life.
Frederick
Eugene Lisko
Member 2025
The Grand Prairie Herald (USPS) 225-680
The Grand Prairie Herald is an independent publication that has served Prairie County since December, 1901. It is published weekly by Herald Publishing Company
P.O. Box 370 111 Hwy 70 E Hazen, Arkansas 72064
Ph. 870-255-4538
Email: heraldpublishing@gmail.com Arkansas Press Association
of State$35.00/year
Postage paid at Hazen, Arkansas 72064 POSTMASTER: Send Address Changes to: Grand Prairie Herald P.O.Box 370 Hazen, Arkansas 72064
Managing Editor/Publisher
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Circulation/Accounts
Trudy Johnson
Sports Editor
Mark Buffalo
Correspondent
Lisa Mills
Correspondent
Debbye Harrison
Photographer
Ruth Corley
Frederick Eugene Lisko (Freddie), 69, of Slovak, Arkansas passed away at his home Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Freddie was born February 3, 1956 in Stuttgart, Arkansas to the late Steve and Clemie (Plafcan) Lisko. Raised on the family farm in Slovak, Freddie attended Hazen High School, where he played for the 1973 Hornet State Runner-up football team. After graduation Freddie went on to play football at Arkansas State University where he was part of the undefeated, award winning 1975 team and became a team Captain for the ASU Indians in 1978. After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education he married Babs Baldwin in February 1979, and they had 4 children. They made their home in Slovak where Freddie was a passionate farmer for over 45 years. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara (Babs Baldwin) Lisko. Freddie is survived by their four children Jennifer Holzhauer (Blake) of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Katie Madden (Matt) of Dyersburg, Tennessee, Brian Lisko (Ellen) of Hazen, Arkansas, and Zach Lisko (Kristy) of Athens, Alabama. He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren, Landon, Emerson, Lucy, Avery, Molly, Amy Jo, and Connor; 3 step grandchildren, Clayton, Tyler, and Stella all of whom adored their Boppy. Freddie is also survived by 1 sister, 5 brothers, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
As a lifelong parishioner of Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Slovak, Freddie served as a 4th Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of the Hazen School Board starting in 1990 and served the community for close to 15 years. Freddie was an avid football fan, still supporting the Hornets and Red Wolves every chance he had. His
grandchildren were one of his biggest joys. Freddie will be missed by so many, but Heaven gained a special angel. Visitation was held on Sunday, August 17, 2025 beginning at 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Slovak. Rosary began immediately follow the visitation. Funeral Mass was held on Monday, August 18, 2025 beginning at 10:00 AM at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church with burial to follow in the Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery. The family request any memorials made in Freddie’s memory to be made to Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Slovak, Arkansas or the Hazen Athletics Activity Fund; 305 N Hazen Ave, Hazen, AR 72064.
Elizabeth Ann Wagner Newkirk
Don and Ann were an inseparable duo. Her favorite place was outdoors with Don enjoying hunting, fishing, and gardening. Their love and devotion to each other was a true testament to what a marriage should be. Ann was a perfect example of a Godly wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her family deeply and shared her faith freely.
New chapter for Prairie County Extension Office
By Jacob Holloway
The Prairie County Extension Office is excited to announce some role changes for our dedicated staff. These shifts are designed to better serve the community by leveraging the unique strengths of each team member. While some roles may be new, the commitment of our entire staff to you, the residents of Prairie County, remains our top priority.
New Leadership and Roles for Our Agents
Jacob Holloway, who has been a cornerstone of our agricultural programs, will now serve as both our Ag Agent and Staff Chair. This new leadership position recognizes Jacobs dedication to the office as well as the community and will allow him to continue his vital work with local farmers while also guiding our team.
Elizabeth Ann Wagner Newkirk, age 90, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Amberwood Health and Rehabilitation in Benton.
Ann was born in Little Rock on February 15, 1935, to the late Jack and Allene Wagner. She graduated from Little Rock Central High in 1951 and began work at The Equitable Society Assurance Company in Little Rock. During this time, she met and married the love of her life, Don D. Newkirk, on June 18, 1955. After a brief time of farming in Roe, they lived and worked in Little Rock before relocating to the Oak Prairie community in Des Arc for Don to begin his career as a wildlife officer with the Arkansas Game and Fish. In Des Arc they raised two sons and engaged in minnow farming where Ann served as the farm manager.
Ann gave her life to Christ at the age of nine and was an active member of Lakeside Missionary Baptist Church. She could be found at church anytime the doors were opened and served as the church treasurer and Adult Ladies Sunday School Teacher for more than 25 years.
Don and Ann were married for 55 years until his death in 2010.
The Grand Prairie Herald Deadline for Submissions is Monday at 10 a.m. on the week the paper goes to press. Information can be emailed to: heraldpublishing@gmail.com or mailed to the Grand Prairie Herald P. O. Box 370, Hazen, AR 72064
Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister, Billie Crofford, and a brother, Bobby Wagner. She is survived by her two sons, Jeff (Janet) Newkirk of Forney, TX and Keith (Fara) Newkirk of Sheridan; three grandsons, Jonathon (Chelsea) Newkirk of Florence, MT, Jeremy (Nicole) Newkirk of Dallas, TX, and Alexander (Shelby) Newkirk of Heber Springs; five greatgrandchildren, Ava and Olivia Newkirk of Florence, MT, Jenna Newkirk of Dallas, TX, and Benjamin and Samuel Newkirk of Heber Springs; and numerous nephews and extended family members.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, August 19, from 5—7 PM at Garth Funeral Home of Des Arc. A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 10 AM at Lakeside Missionary Baptist Church of Des Arc with Bro. Eddie Addison officiating. Interment will follow at Lakeside Cemetery in Des Arc. Pallbearers include Jonathon, Jeremy, and Alex Newkirk; Johnny and Jeffrey Reidhar; and godson, Matthew Riley. Honorary pallbearers include nephews, Curtis and Lawrence Crofford and Bruce and Guy King; longtime friends, Leon Moon, Timmy Felty, Billy Hinson, Dennis Johnson, and Steve Crump.
Memorials can be made to Lakeside Missionary Baptist Church, Memorial Fund, PO Box 42, Des Arc, AR 72040.
We are also excited to see Josh Hambrick transition into the dual role of Ag and 4-H Agent. Josh has been an invaluable asset in our community, and he will now bring his energy and expertise to both our youth development programs and our agricultural outreach. This new position will allow him to foster the next generation of leaders while also supporting our farming community. Our Team Ongoing
Commitment While some roles have changed, our core team remains strong and dedicated. Emilee Moody continues to serve as our Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, bringing her expertise in health, nutrition, and financial literacy to local families. Our 4-H programs will also continue to thrive with the support of Amanda Stark, our 4-H Program Assistant, who works closely with our youth to deliver engaging and educational experiences.
We are also delighted to welcome Leslie Sullivan, our new Administrative Assistant. Leslie will be the first point of contact for many of you, handling calls and correspondence with a warm and welcoming demeanor.
The entire staff at the Prairie County Extension Office is committed to working together to provide you with the resources and support you need. We believe that by working as a cohesive team, we can make an even greater impact on our community. Call us at 870-998-2614 if you are interested in what we can offer in serving you. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity institution.
August Blood Drive
Erna Tosh Betty Juola
Dewanna Keys
Gary King
Brandon Tipton
Leigh Chlapecka
Steve Chlapecka
David Clawitter
Britt Stallings
Mary Van Houten
Dillion Cook
George Toll
Nancy Chlapecka
Shane Weems
There were 14 donors with 17 signing in. Two were new to giving
By Debbye Harrison
The Carlisle School Board met in its regular session on Tuesday, August 13, 202, with all members present.
Carlisle High School has been chosen as one of four schools in the state to receive the “Save a Life” program offered by Children’s Hospital. On August 27 students will receive intense training on the importance of avoiding drinking and driving as well as distracted driving.
The Safety Resource Officer this year will be through the Lonoke County Sheriff’s office.
Superintendent Greene expressed his gratitude
”
to the Sherriff for his cooperation in securing a deputy for this position. Parents are reminded that the Handbook is on-line, but a copy can be secured from each school’s office if one is needed.
Seat time waivers will be allowed this year for seniors who qualify.
Upon completion of all necessary driver certification, Kathleen Dewar will be hired as a fulltime bus driver for the Humnoke area. Bus drivers are still needed and can apply in the Superintendent’s Office. Once again the HVAC system for the gym was under consideration. A
low bid of $324,000 was submitted,butthe financing is still under consideration.
The Bus Transportation Discipline Policy was approved. It included three days off the bus for the first offense, 5 days for the second and suspension for the 3rd. It was voted to keep the Employee Benefit Policy the same for both Certified and Classified employees. The AI Acceptable Use Policy for Employees was also adopted.
It was reported that 42 students are currently being home schooled: 16 in high school and 25 in elementary.
The Arkansas Legislature had a full schedule this week, as the Arkansas Legislative Council (ALC) and its subcommittees met, as well as the House and Senate City, County, and Local Affairs Committees.
The ALC reviewed the recommendations from the Employee Benefits Division for 2026 health insurance rates for state and school employees. Rates will remain unchanged for active employees, while Medicare-eligible retirees in United Healthcare’s Medicare Advantage and Health Advantage supplemental plans will see a $6 monthly increase. In response to recent flooding in Texas, the Game and Fish/State
Police Subcommittee will conduct a study on Arkansas’ emergency flood preparedness.
Arkansas State Police Director Col. Mike Hagar also briefed the subcommittee on the recent homicide at Devil’s Den State Park. The Council reviewed proposed changes to how public school letter grades and performance awards are determined. Under the new rules, grades will be based on: Elementary/Middle Schools: Proficiency in English, math, and science; individual growth; and growth of the lowest-performing 25%.
High Schools: These measures, plus graduation rate and diplomas of merit/distinction tied to enrollment, enlistment, or employment.
Grades will be assigned relative to the performance of other Arkansas schools, not strictly by raw percentage scores. The House and Senate City, County, and Local Affairs committees met in Rogers this week and reviewed prison capacity needs. The state’s inmate population—currently about 20,000—is projected to grow 2% annually, reaching roughly 25,000 by 2035. Members were told the Protect Arkansas Act will require 1,500–2,000 additional beds by 2040.
The week’s meetings reflected the legislature’s focus on long-term planning—whether for education, public safety, infrastructure, or criminal justice.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PRAIRIE COUNTY, ARKANSAS
DES ARC DISTRICT CIVIL DIVISION
THE MICHAEL AND MELISSA BARRE LIVING TRUST PLAINTIFF V. CASE NO. 59NCV-25-43
BERRY EDDIE VALDEZ a single person or anyone having claim in the following Real Property:
A plot of ground located in the Northwest Quarter (NW1/4) Southwest Quarter (SW1/4). Section Thirty-six (36), Township Two (2) North Range Four (4) West, Prairie County, Arkansas, and described as beginning 350’ North of the Southwest corner, Northwest Quarter (NW1/4) Southwest Quarter (SW1/4), Section 36; thence East 855’ to a twin overcup tree; thence East 81 feet, thence north 34 feet for point of beginning; thence East 240 feet; thence North 40 feet; thence West 240 feet; thence South 40 feet to point of beginning. Thence Grantor further grants a perpetual easement available for the use of the Grantee to a strip of ground twelve feet wide on the South, East and West sides and a six (6) foot strip easement on the North side.
DEFENDANT
WARNING ORDER
TO: Berry Eddie Valdez or Anyone having claim in the above property.
You are hereby notified that The Micheal and Melissa Barre Living Trust Plaintiff, whose attorney is Christopher D. Brockett, Robertson, Beasley, Shipley & Robinson, has filed a Petition to Quiet Title against Berry Eddie Valdez and their Heirs, a copy of which Petition to Quiet Title shall be delivered to you or to your attorney upon request.
You are also notified that you must appear and defend by filing your Answer or other responsive pleading within thirty (30) days of the date of the first publication of this Warning Order; and in the event of your failure to do so, judgment by default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint as circumscribed by the laws of this State.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal as Clerk of the Court on this, the __ day of July, 2025 [SEAL]
By:_______________________________
CIRCUIT COURT DEPUTY CLERK
Prepared by: Christopher D. Brockett, ABA #2005192
Local teams open 2025 Newport golf season
By Mark Buffalo Sports Editor
The Carlisle Lady Bison golf team finished second in tournaments last week. They played both Tuesday and Thursday at Stuttgart.
Charly Cook shot the low round on Tuesday in the girls’ division.
The Bison did not place but Fisher Thaxton shot a personal best on Tuesday while Graham Clark shot a personal best on Thursday. Hazen golf
The Hazen golf team opened the season Thursday at Stuttgart.
“They all competed well and are looking forward
to their next match,” Hazen coach
Lady Hornets competing were Maci
and Ryleigh Cook.
playing were Weston Hare and Trever Fulmer.
The Hornets return to the links today at Newport.
Qu i lters h ol d August meet i ng
By Marsha Heien
The Grand Prairie Quilt Society met August 13, 2025 at First Christian Church, Stuttgart, in the fellowship hall with 9 members present. Shelley opened the meeting with the Thought for the Day, "Not all angels have wings, some have a sewing machine."
August Happy Birthday greetings were extended to Jean and Vivian.
The July minutes and treasurer's report were given. Shelley read a thank you note from Arkansas Children's Hospital for the teaching dolls the group sent.
Old Business: Several projects were discussed. Two members were delegated to find out more information on the size of the tote bags and what items are needed.
The Fall Quilt Trail
will be planned later in the year.
New Business:
The October 8th meeting will be at Jackie's Deli in Roe. We will meet at the church at 10:00 to carpool. We will look at some of Jackie's mother's lovely quilts and will also have lunch after the meeting.
Show and Share:
Maeola had a "Ladies" quilt top she is making for retreat. Marsha showed her purple afghan in progress. The meeting was adjourned and everyone browsed among many donated squares of fabric to find just what was needed to finished that special project. The next meeting will be September 10 at the church, come join us.
Heath Prince said.
Sickel
Boys
Carlisle High School golf team
Biscoe EHC members follow through on local projects
By Mitzi Osborne
Ten members of the Biscoe EHC gathered at the Biscoe First Baptist Fellowship Hall on Monday, August 15, 2025, at 10:30 am. Those attending were: Mitzi Osborne, Bernadette Mosby, Debby Priest, Ardie Yates, Janis Toll, Brenda Prince, Juanita Hutchinson, Connie Smith,Barbara Williams, and Jackie Fogerty plus two members brought grandchildren.
President Mitzi Osborne opened the
meeting with the thought, “A grateful heart is a magnet for miracles.” Then Juanita Hutchinson shared the inspirational reading based on Matthew 16:26 titled “What Have We Won?” by Helen Steiner Rice.
Members answered roll call by Jackie Fogerty, secretary, by answering, “What’s the last good book you read or movie you watched?” and giving the number of volunteer hours each had since last month’s meeting. Jackie recorded the total of 288 volunteer
hours. After passing on the reading of the minutes, Bernadette Mosby, treasurer, gave the financial report which she filed for audit. There were no August birthdays to acknowledge. September birthdays will be Brenda Prince - 4 th , Rita Farris – 11 th , and Debby Priest -17 th . For eye openers, Ardie Yates shared a new children’s book illustrated by her niece. Brenda Prince showed a sonogram to announce her newest grandchild... it’s a boy!
Ha z en S chool Boar d hears up d ates on buil d ing projects
The Hazen School Board met in a regular meeting on Monday, August 11, at 5:30 p.m. At the beginning of the meeting, Sarah Snider spoke to the board briefly about concerns over the ongoing building projects. She asked the board to keep the public informed by posting weekly construction updates on the district’s website and social media, including a brief construction update at every board meeting so the public knows exactly when to expect information, and to put updates in parent newsletters for families who don’t follow social media.
After the approval of the district financial report for July, the 6th grade High Achievers on the state Atlas Assessment were announced. Michael McBryde of Stephens, Inc. gave a financial report on the district’s finances. He reported that the district’s 41.33 millage rate produces $98,801 per mil per year assuming a 95% tax collection rate. This rate is slightly above the state average millage rate. The amount of millage that will go toward maintenance and operation is 26.43 mils, and 14.90 mils will go toward debt service. The district’s bond issue is $9,750,000. Representatives from C. R. Crawford Construction gave a construction update on the district’s building projects. They are still getting bids from contractors and construction managers. August 18 is
the last day to receive bids. The district expects construction on the pre-kindergarten building to begin in the late fall, and work on the girl’s weight room after that. The state must first approve the plans before construction can begin.
Board member Stevie Kee was designated to be the Qualified Elector for the purpose of casting a ballot for the district’s unchanged rate of property tax. The board approved the proposed budget of expenditures. They also approved updates and changes to sections 2,5,6, and 7 of the district policy manual. Some of the changes are as follows. There will no longer be semester tests, and instead students will take unit assessments to demonstrate mastery of the Arkansas State Essential Standards of that unit. Students will not be allowed to have personal electronic devices, including cell phones, which must be turned in each morning. Students who drive to school will now be subject to school discipline while in parked areas adjacent to the school. The changes were made to meet requirements updated by the state, and will go into immediate effect. All of the students in the district will receive free breakfasts this year.
Superintendent Andy Barrett told the board that interest on the district’s two 3 month certificates of deposit with Cadence Bank will
equal $116, 855. The district has also applied for a 30% partnership funding from the state. The plan will go through pre-evaluation, and the district will know if it has been accepted next year. Plans for another parking lot will require moving gas, water, and electrical lines, which will require city approval, Barrett said.
The district yard sale raised $1200, and the old cafeteria has been cleared out for use by the cheer team.
High School Principal Amy Marek reported that the district staff was given training by several speakers, including training in Special Ed/504 accommodations and de-escalation techniques for all of the staff. The Morgan Nick Foundation also spoke to the teachers. She also announced changes in the accelerated classes and a change in the Valedictorian and Salutatorian designations. This caused some questioning by the board, and various options will be looked into.
The board hired Brianna Staley for the position of Elementary paraprofessional teacher for the upcoming school year pending completion of all necessary background checks and requirements. After an executive session to discuss the purchase of property, the board returned with no action taken, and the meeting was adjourned.
Members chose as their new annual community service project to supply a personal hygiene closet for the local high school.
Members brought items to this meeting (see picture) and afterward, project chair Barbara Williams delivered them to the counselor and principal who were so appreciative.
Members will bring items to each monthly meeting for this ongoing project.
On August 9 at the DeValls Bluff Fire Station, Biscoe EHC
partnered with two local churches for the Backto-School Ministry providing school supplies for students. Members Jackie Fogerty, Mitzi Osborne, and Ardie Yates assisted with lunch takeouts at this event.
Members discussed the club’s educational exhibit board entry for the Prairie County Fair September 14 -21.
Connie Smith, Brenda Prince, and Mitzi Osborne remained after the meeting to begin work on it. President Mitzi Osborne encour-
aged members to enter items for judging. Eight members volunteered to serve as supervisors for the fair.
Connie Smith led the creative arts program. She taught the group Fire Art. Each member created a colorful ceramic tile. The meeting adjourned with the EHC prayer. The next meeting will be on Monday, September 8 at 10:30 am at the Biscoe First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
Arkansas State Senate Report
By Senator Ron Caldwell
LITTLE ROCK – The director of the state Division of Children and Family Services told lawmakers that much of the agency’s improvements in recent years is due to greater involvement on the part of faith-based groups, churches and private sector organizations.
For example, CarePortal is a program that the Arkansas Family Alliance uses to recruit volunteers, churches and potential foster care families. When the director of the Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS) described CarePortal, several legislators expressed interest and asked how to promote the program in their districts.
The division director said the program is operating in five of the largest counties in Arkansas, and the agency is working to add four more.
DCFS also partners with the state Health Department on a program titled “Baby and Me” for families who receive benefits through Women, Infants and Children, or WIC. It teaches parenting skills to mothers and fathers of newborns.
In late June it expanded from 15 to 18 counties. Lessons can be as simple as how to breastfeed. They’re designed to reduce the stress of parenting and thus to prevent possible abuse or
neglect. There is no cost to the family. The director of DCFS, alongside the Secretary of the Department of Human Services, updated the legislative Hospital, Medicaid and Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee. Legislators were so interested that the committee co-chairs plan to invite leaders of CarePortal and several other private organizations to next month’s meeting.
DCFS now uses evidence-based prevention services, and one result has been that the re-victimization rate for children remains low, at 7 percent. That is better than the national average.
From 2022 to 2024 the number of children in foster care decreased by 971 children. As of July 1, 2025, there were 3,390 children and youths in Arkansas foster care homes.
DCFS has more than 1,000 employees and the agency “continues to experience significant challenges with staff turnover,” the director told legislators. However, it is better than a few years ago when turnover among frontline staff was 60 percent to 70 percent. Since 2022 the turnover rate has improved by 19 percent, the director said.
Maintaining appropriate staffing levels has enabled the agency to lower case loads to an average of 17 cases per employee. In the recent past the work load has been significantly higher, which has negatively affected case management. For example, when the agency opens a case, family services workers are supposed to complete their findings and schedule regular visits to the home. High caseloads make it difficult to make scheduled visits on time.
Of all the children who went through the foster care system last year, 43 percent were reunited with their parents or a close caregiver. Another 30 percent were adopted, either by foster parents, by a relative or by families recruited by DCFS. The agency has a budget of $261 million this year.
Of that, $81.5 million is for salaries and benefits of staff. About $70 million is for room and board for children in the system. The state pays foster families, relatives and others with whom foster children are placed.
About $59 million is for contracts for services such as mental health counseling, therapy, substance abuse treatment and prevention and teaching parenting skills.
Representatives from C. R. Crawford Construction
To Whom It May
Concern: A 1987 Chevrolet Blazer VIN# 1GNEV18KXHF118494 was picked up at the request of the owner of the property on July 21, 2025.This vehicle is in the possession of Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service 1111 Hwy 70 W, Hazen Ar. 72064, (870)255-3305. Towing, storage, & administrative costs are accruing as legal liability of the owner.
Rick’s Automotive & Wrecker Service claims first priority possessory lien on the
said vehicle and its content for all such charges. The vehicle and its contents will be dismantled, destroyed, or sold at public sale to the highest bidder if not claimed within 45 days and constitutes a waiver by the owner and lien holder of all right, title, and interest in the vehicle.
To take possession of this vehicle, you must appear during normal business hours, MonFri, 8am-5pm, provide proof of ownership and pay all associated charges.
by Debbie Carlyle.)
Hazen Library had a craft day for adults on August 14.. (Photos below by Peggy Pullium,
