Government politics by Jacob Brower

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2012

The

Daily Citizen TheDailyCitizen.com

Serving Searcy and White County, Ark., since 1854

3 WHITE COUNTY BASEBALL PLAYERS SIGN CITY APPROVES TRAFFIC LIGHT EXPENDITURE Harding Academy pitcher Trent Finley will continue his career with the Bisons next year. — PAGE 1B

Searcy officials thought they wiped their hands of the traffic signal on Highway 16, but the state disagreed. — PAGE 3A

City may mull sanitation cuts

City of Pangburn The city on Tuesday passed a projected 2013 budget that did not include revenue generated from the recently-passed 1 percent sales tax

Tax no factor in Pangburn budget

Reduced commercial pickup frequency, new trucks could save over $1 million per year BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

In 1998, then-Searcy Mayor David Evans and the city council had to come up with money,

Searcy sanitation Annual budget: Over $3.2 million Percentage of general fund: 22 percent quickly. The Arkansas Supreme Court

ruled that White County was guilty of illegal sales tax exaction. The ruling meant that the county and the municipalities therein had to set aside funds for residents who wanted to be reimbursed for taxes the court ruled were obtained illegally. To come up with the money, the city reduced its residential trash pickup from twice to once weekly. Evans said once-weekly

pickups saved the city around 30 percent of its sanitation budget. “We saved on oil, gasoline, tires,” Evans said. “It didn’t save us half, but it saved us a lot.” As the city begins 2013 budget talks, the sanitation budget will once again be a topic of conversation. With a budget of over $3.2 million, sanitation acPlease see SANITATION | 2A

LIGHTLE CENTER OFFERS BINGO

City to re-evaluate budget after analyzing sales tax effects BY M. A. WEBB Special to The Daily Citizen

PANGBURN — City officials are proceeding with caution despite the narrow passing of a one-percent sales tax. “It’s hard to get a tax passed,” said Mayor Gary Doyle. “I really appreciate the people voting for this.” The sales and use tax Doyle will be disbursed between the general fund, the street improvement fund and the public safety fund. Please see PANGBURN | 3A

Molly M. Fleming/mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

Evelyn Harms of Bradford waves her bingo card in the air after winning a game at the Lightle Center on Wednesday morning. The center offers a variety of activities and lunch daily for senior residents. At left, Noralene Washington (right) and her sisterin-law Carrie Ann Washington, both of Searcy, check their bingo cards during a game.

GOP has edge with 1 recount pending Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK — Provisional ballots to be certified Friday in Poinsett County will narrow the gap between two legislative candidates but the new figures won't reverse the outcome of the race by themselves. Republican John K. Hutchison defeated Democrat L.J. Bryant by 44 votes based on results received election night, but Bryant has asked for a recount that could leave neither party with a majority of the House's 100 seats. Control of the Arkansas House of Representatives depends on who ultimately wins District 52, which covers portions of Craighead, Independence, Jackson and Poinsett counties. Independence County will review its ballots Thursday; the other counties have completed their new tallies with Hutchison picking up one vote. Poinsett County Clerk Fonda Condra said Wednesday that Please see HOUSE | 2A

Beebe: Medicaid expansion can spare nursing homes BY ANDREW DEMILLO Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe said Wednesday that expanding Medicaid eligibility under the federal health care law would be the best way to avoid removing thousands of people from nursing home care, but he's open to other ideas. A day after state officials detailed a series of proposed cuts under a plan to fill a $138 million shortfall in the state Medicaid program's budget, Beebe said he wanted to find a way to avoid the nursing home reductions. Department of Human

“The one that bothers me the most and the one that we would work the hardest to try to keep from occurring is the level-three nursing home folks.” Gov. Mike Beebe Services officials have proposed eliminating the lowest level of nursing home care under the state program, a $35 million cut that would affect between 10,000 and 15,000 seniors. The nursing home cuts are part of service reductions or freezes that DHS officials say

would affect more than 75,000 people on Medicaid in the state. Even more would be affected by other cost-saving measures, including a rate freeze for providers. "The one that bothers me the most and the one that we would work the hardest to try to keep

INDEX NATION & STATE, 2A OPINIONS, 4A LIFESTYLES, 5A CALENDAR/OBITUARIES, 6A SPORTS, 1B CLASSIFIEDS, 5B

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from occurring is the level-three nursing home folks," Beebe told reporters. Beebe, a Democrat, said his preference would be to use the savings from a Medicaid expansion under the health care law to prevent the reductions. DHS officials project that expanding Medicaid's eligibility — covered by the federal government for the first three years — would add 250,000 people to the state's rolls and save the state $44 million next year. Beebe said he'll consider other

Please see BUDGET | 2A

Never be afraid to sit awhile and think. LORRAINE HANSBERRY 10th Century American playwright

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Page 2A • Thursday, November 15, 2012

The Daily Citizen

FROM PAGE ONE SANITATION CONTINUED FROM 1A

counts for 22 percent of the city’s $14.9 million general budget. The police department checks in at No. 2 ($3.1 million, 21 percent) and the fire department is third ($2.4 million, 16 percent). Assuming the city would see the same savings as in 1998, reducing pickup frequency could save the city around $1 million per year. “I plan to look at the entire operation of the sanitation department and get some guidance from the council,” said David Morris, Searcy mayor. “Oneday pickup for residential may be something we need to look at.” Residents of Searcy’s approximate 6,800 households pay $14 per month for sanitation services. Twice-weekly pickup for a city of Searcy’s size is rare. Of Arkansas’ 30 largest cities, only three others have twice-weekly pickup. They are Texarkana (No. 13; 29,119 population), Paragould (No. 19; 26,113 population), and Siloam Springs (No. 28; 15,039). Searcy checks in at No. 21 with a population of 22,858. Morris lived in Sherwood for three years, which has once-weekly residential pickup. “You get used to it,” he said. “In the middle of July or August, I’d open the garage door and the garage didn’t smell too pleasant. You learn to live with it, but there are problems and concerns with that. What do you do with the workforce? You’re reducing jobs. It would be through attrition, but it’s still eliminating jobs.” During the 1998 reduction, Evans said he had workers help with miscellaneous projects around the city. “We had some projects we worked on in-house,” Evans said. “We didn’t lay anyone off and we used them on some cleanup projects around the city instead of hiring extra help.” Evans said the reduction was not seen as a permanent budget solution. “We went to two pickups as soon as we possibly could,” he said. “People in Searcy had twice a week for a long time. They were used to it and there were a lot of people who missed it. We felt it was what the people of Searcy wanted to see.” The city may also consider the purchase or lease of sidearm sanitation trucks. Whereas the city’s current fleet requires one CDL driver and two people who ride the backs of trucks, the sidearm trucks — which require the use of custommade garbage bins — eliminate the necessity of people riding in the back. A new sidearm truck costs around $200,000. When fully staffed, the sanitation department has 45 employees. Fourteen of these employees are drivers and 23 are “throwers,” the people who ride the backs of trucks. Commer-

cial drivers start at $10.87 per hour and throwers start at $7.83 per hour. The city of Jacksonville last year reduced residential garbage pickup to once weekly and purchased three sidearm trucks and 8,000 to 10,000 specialized garbage bins for a total of $1.4 million. Jim Durham, Jacksonville’s director of administration, said he expects the purchase to pay for itself in less than two years. “For a few months, we dealt with phone calls, asking us what we were thinking,” he said. “Now [residents are] saying it’s the greatest thing in the world. The town is clean. There’s no garbage all over from cats and raccoons getting into it. It’s rare that we have a trash complaint now.” Shock said the purchase or lease of sidearm trucks is something the city should consider, though he described the situation as a “Catch 22.” The city’s current fleet is outdated and requires a lot of maintenance, he said, eating up money the city could apply toward purchasing a new fleet. He stressed that if the city were to choose this route, the sanitation workforce would be reduced through attrition, not layoffs, meaning that employees who leave would simply not be replaced until the city hits its target staff number. Shock said he is unsure what that number would be. “That in and of itself would save us on manpower,” he said. “That’s just my opinion. Instead of a 45-employee base, we can cut that by several employees.” A proposal to reduce pickup frequency may have drawbacks. Alderman Dale English, who served on the council in 1998, said he recalls complaints the city received when pickup frequency was decreased. “It was bad,” he said. “There were a lot of people really stirred up about it. You have some who think one pickup is fine, but the bigger household people were the ones who complained.” However, English said this may be the time to give reduced pickup frequency a second look. “I think it’s something we ought to look at and see where we’re at,” he said. Dale Brewer is the only other current alderman who served on the council in 1998. “People get used to having their trash picked up twice a week,” he said. “I’m not sure it would be the appropriate thing, but we’ll see. I think there will be a lot of disappointed people in town.” Brewer said he is open to the council discussing reducing pickup frequency once again. “I’ve had several people mention it to me,” he said. “If it would really reduce our costs in the sanitation department, it is something we should consider.”

Atlantic City’s poor endure superstorm quietly, humbly BY WAYNE PARRY Associated Press

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Atlantic City's poorest residents had next to nothing going into the storm, and they came out of it with even less. In the shadow of multibillion-dollar casinos that now boast of having come through Superstorm Sandy just fine, urging gamblers to return with their wallets, many of the seaside gambling resort's least fortunate endure hardship with quiet resignation — even gratitude for the help they're getting. Some lost heat, hot water or electricity for days, weeks. They lost many of their meager possessions, their food, and most of their clothes. But instead of complain-

ing about what they don't have, many say they feel blessed for what remains. Lonzie Tolbert's basement took on 6 feet of water, ruining his furnace. He has no heat, so he burns small pieces of wood and scraps of paper in a fireplace to try to keep warm. He has no hot water, so he tries to heat some in a kettle near the fireplace. "You do the best you can with what you have," said the 84-year-old Tolbert, sunning himself on a 66-degree afternoon outside his home three blocks from Revel, a $2.4 billion casino resort. "I can't complain and I'm not hollerin'." Life was tough for many Atlantic City residents even before the storm hit Oct. 29. One

Bryant will be awarded three provisional ballots in advance of Friday's vote-certification meeting while Hutchison could be awarded additional votes as well. "It appears there were two additional ballots for Hutchison. We haven't been able to verify that

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Second Baptist Church, which helped distribute supplies over the weekend. "Tough times and being without is nothing new to them. But we realize it could have been a whole lot worse, and we are not as bad off as our neighbors to the north," he said. "There's a lot of help out there, and they are grateful to it and to God." Tolbert counts himself among the thankful. "As long as you have your life, and we do," he said. "At least nobody lost their lives; people could easily have drowned." Farther north on the Jersey shore, they did; at least four deaths attributable to the storm involved people who drowned in their homes.

Associated Press

Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe speaks about expanding Medicaid during a speech to the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce Wednesday in Little Rock.

BUDGET CONTINUED FROM 1A

ideas, however, noting that the expansion would require the support of at least three-fourths of the House and Senate — a margin even more difficult after Republicans won control of the Legislature in last week's election. "There may not be any other realistic option, but we won't preclude or foreclose any thoughts by anybody," Beebe told reporters. The nursing home cuts faced opposition Wednesday from skeptical Republican lawmakers, who wondered whether it was an effort to prod them to support the Medicaid expansion. "I'm not even sure I

consider a proposal like that a serious proposal," said Sen. Michael Lamoureux, R-Russellville, who will be the Senate's president next year. Under the health care law, the federal government agreed to pay the full tab for the Medicaid expansion when it begins in 2014. After three years, states must pay a gradually increasing share that tops out at 10 percent of the cost. The U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in June upholding the federal overhaul gave states the right to opt out of the expansion. Lamoureux said the expansion and the shortfall are two different issues. "They're wanting to tell us they're going to solve

the immediate Medicaid crisis by expanding Medicaid and that's not what we want to hear," he said. "We want to hear how to solve the Medicaid crisis right now by itself." Rep. Greg Leding, the House Democratic leader, said he believed the cuts make a strong argument for expanding Medicaid's eligibility. "I think we help another group of vulnerable people and help protect those people who rely on and need these nursing home services," said Leding, D-Fayetteville. Lamoureux and other Republican leaders said they want to look in other parts of the state's budget to see if there are other cuts that could be made

to help save some of the Medicaid services. Beebe, who is expected to unveil his budget proposal on Thursday, said there's little room outside Medicaid and public schools to look for additional money. Another option, DHS officials say, may be through a request Beebe has made to the federal government for a "global waiver" that would give the state more flexibility on how it uses federal Medicaid funds but would put a cap on its spending over the next eight years. DHS Director John Selig said that flexibility could allow the state to require co-pays for some Medicaid recipients, an idea backed by some GOP lawmakers.

Corrections

HOUSE CONTINUED FROM 1A

in four Atlantic City residents lives in poverty, according to Census figures, a rate that has remained unchanged since 1970. That's well above the national rate. When an emergency shelter at the Atlantic City Convention Center closed over the weekend, 100 people were still there and had to be moved to hotels, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, or to the homes of friends. And about 20 percent of the apartments at Stanley Holmes Village, a 443-unit lowincome public housing project, remain uninhabitable since the storm. "These are people who have already had tremendous struggles in the first place," said the Rev. Collins Days Sr., pastor of

yet," she said. With a provisional vote Hutchison picked up last week in Jackson County, the Republican holds anywhere from a 42- to 44vote margin as Independence County prepares for its recount Thursday in Batesville. There were 790 votes cast in the race last week in Independence County.

Four military ballots also are pending: three in Poinsett County and one in Independence. They must arrive by the end of business Friday to be counted. If the results hold, Republicans will have a 5148-1 edge over Democrats

and the Green Party and hold control of the Arkansas House for the first time since Reconstruction. The GOP last week won the Senate for the first time since the postCivil War period and will enjoy a 21-14 advantage in January.

The Daily Citizen corrects factual errors promptly and courteously. If you have a correction or clarification, please call Editor Jacob Brower at (501) 2688621 or e-mail him at jbrower@thedailycitizen.com.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2012

The

Daily Citizen

TheDailyCitizen.com

Serving Searcy and White County, Ark., since 1854

SENATE CANDIDATES AIM TO LURE GAS INDUSTRY PLAYOFF PICTURE COMES INTO FOCUS Both District 28 candidates are looking at ways to revive the natural gas industry in White County. — PAGE 3A

Searcy and Harding Academy have playoff spots locked up. Everyone else has work to do. — PAGE 1B

Dems: Election compromised Senate challenger’s name truncated on county ballot BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

The Arkansas Democratic Party said Tuesday that the State Senate District 28 race

The name of Tiffany Rogers, D-Stuttgart, was entered in the balloting software as “State Representative Tiffany Rogers,” as Rogers entered on her political practice pledge, according to Winston Collier, White County Election Commission chairman. However,

has been compromised due to the Democratic candidate’s name being truncated on electronic voting machines in White County.

Please see NAME | 2A

Dismang

A&P committee The Say “Yes” to Searcy Parks Committee has started distributing fliers explaining information about the advertising and promotion tax that is on the ballot. The fliers were supposed to be given to people, but some ended up in mailboxes, which is against federal law.

A&P group may face problem

Rogers

HANGING AROUND AT BERRYHILL PARK

USPS says postcards placed in mailboxes violate federal law BY MOLLY M. FLEMING mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

The Say “Yes” to Searcy Parks Committee has started distributing literature, but the process of passing out some of their information could be found as a violation of federal law. Some Searcy residents received postcards with information in their mailboxes, without postage or a return address. “Nothing is supposed to be put in any mailboxes other than mail that is put in by a postal service employee with postage on it,” said Leisa Tolliver-Gay, spokesperson for the United State

Please see A&P | 2A

Molly M. Fleming/mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

Becca Patton, 3, of Searcy climbs up the jungle gym at Berryhill Park on Tuesday afternoon. She was visiting the park with her grandfather Bill Patton, also of Searcy. At right, Rhett Knight, 6, of Searcy hangs upside down on the jungle gym at the park. He was visiting the park with his aunt Trisha Allison.

Early voting When: Continues today Off-site voting: Today and Thursday at Beebe City Hall from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Early voting continues this week Polls open in White County Courthouse at 8 a.m.

Rivals for congressional seat debate BY ANDREW DEMILLO Associated Press

CONWAY — Republican U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin accused Democratic rival Herb Rule of disrespecting police during an arrest on drunken driving charges earlier this year, while Rule branded the incumbent lawmaker a "captive" of Karl Rove and other national GOP interests during a televised debate Tuesday. The exchanges between the

Griffin, Rule trade verbal blows in televised event two highlighted the 90-minute debate among the four candidates running for Arkansas' 2nd Congressional District. Griffin, a former interim U.S. attorney who worked in the White House with Rove, is seeking a second term. The taped debate was to be shown on AETN Tuesday night.

Rule, a Little Rock attorney and former state legislator, was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated after he was pulled over by Fayetteville Police in August. Rule has pleaded not guilty and has a November court date. When asked about the arrest, Griffin said he didn't want to

raise it as a campaign issue but said he found some of Rule's comments to police troubling. He cited a dashboard camera video that shows Rule asking an officer, "Is this the best thing you all have got to do tonight?" "I mean, come on, you don't talk to law enforcement that way," Griffin said. "It's inappropriate. It's disrespectful. If you take that attitude to Wash-

White Countians can continue taking to the polls this week to vote early for the November general elections. Early voting begins at 8 a.m. at the White County Courthouse in Searcy, ending at 6 p.m. Voting will continue today through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.

Please see DEBATE | 2A

Please see POLLS | 2A

INDEX NATION & STATE, 2A OPINIONS, 4A LIFESTYLES, 5A CALENDAR/OBITUARIES, 6A SPORTS, 1B CLASSIFIEDS, 5B

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BY KYLE TROUTMAN ktroutman@thedailycitizen.com

I can, therefore I am. SIMONE WEIL 20th Century French philosopher

”

Page 2A • Wednesday, October 24, 2012

The Daily Citizen

FROM PAGE ONE POLLS

A&P CONTINUED FROM 1A

Postal Service in Little Rock. “They could actually be fined and have to pay postage for all of those pieces of mail. It is against federal law.” Tolliver-Gay said that if a complaint is filed for the violation, it would be handled by the Postal Inspection Service. “Some carriers have picked up fliers and brought them back to the postal inspection service,” she said, in reference to occurrences that have taken place in the past. Susannah Streit, who chairs the Say “Yes” Committee, said the literature in mailboxes was a miscommunication between Streit and campaign volunteers. “I told them to go door to door,” Streit said, who is an attorney in Searcy. “I specifically told them not

to put them in the mailboxes.” She said committee officials decided to not mail the postcards because of the needed manpower to put literature in the mail. “We didn’t have the manpower or the funds to (mail them),” she said. “Plus, we wanted to go door-to-door so people could put a face with a cause.” The literature contains information about how the A&P tax revenue will be used, as well as why the tax does not have a sunset. However, the committee name itself is not listed as being the distributor of the information. However, that is not required on pamphlets, according to Graham Sloan, director of the Arkansas Ethics Commission. “‘Paid for by’ only has to go on radio, television, or newspaper ads,” Sloan

said. “Yard signs or a piece of campaign literature — the law doesn’t require there to be a tagline on those materials.” Streit said she didn’t have a specific reason as to why the committee’s name wasn’t on the literature. “We looked at two or three drafts before we went with the one we have,” she said. “It might have been there wasn’t enough space for it.” The committee ordered 5,000 of the postcards that are in the process of being distributed in various neighborhoods around the city, as well as at peewee football games, soccer games and the Lytle Center. The cards were paid for by the funds collected by the committee. The committee has raised $2,794 as of Oct. 12, according to the report filed with the Arkansas Ethics Commis-

sion. Of that total, nearly half of the amount was backed by two local banks, with $500 being donated by First Security Bank and another $500 from Liberty Bank. The other people who contributed more than $50, which requires their names to be listed on the financial report for the committee are as follows: Mike and Rhonda Wood, $100; Donnie and Kristy Parish, $50; Phillip Pyeatt, $300; Sowell Family Inc., $500; Jon David and Kim Yingling, $250; Robert Scott and Rosemary Bell, $200; Harley and Katy Bridger, $75; and Greg Rowden of Sonic One, $319.11. As of Oct. 8, the committee had spent $2,507 on yard signs at Conley Graphics. The total for the postcards has not yet been filed.

ballot. Collier said he was made aware of the mistake Monday morning. Afterwards, the commission had signs placed on printed paper inside each voting machine, saying that Rogers’ name was truncated with her full name printed. Collier said he took exception to the Democratic Party issuing a press release implicating wrongdoing by the commission. “The Democratic Party of Arkansas’ spinning of this is mischaracterized and inaccurate,” said Collier, a Democrat. “The allegation that the election commission has made some kind of error and the insinuation that there has been some kind of sinister reason that her name reads as it reads on the ballot is troubling and simply not true. “What their press release failed to mention is that Representative Rogers’ name was entered into the ballot exactly as she presented it to us in her political practice pledge, but her name as she presented it was too large for our software, so it added ‘...’ in place of ‘ers.’ What their statement also fails to point out is that, in a good faith effort to accommodate Representative Rogers’ concerns, we have placed a clarification inside every single voting machine listing the full text of Representative Rogers’ name

for voters to see.” Collier said the software the commission uses implements a 14-point font, adding that when tests were run on the machine, the software did not indicate any errors. “The election coordinator (Leslie Bellamy) is trained on how to enter candidates’ names and our policy has always been enter the name of the candidate as they present it on their political practice pledge,” he said. “We’re not in the business of abbreviating ‘Representative’ to ‘Rep.’ because that’s not an authority I or the election coordinator has. We ran that test to see if there are any errors and it came back that there was none.” Collier said that voting machines are not turned on and ballots are not loaded during the testing process, rather the machines are scanned to see if any errors are detected. Collier said he plans to meet with the State Board of Election Commissioners and the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office before deciding the next step. “We have to know for sure if we can change it,” he said. “It’s illegal to have two ballot forms. I need to find out what remedies we do have available.” He said early voting will not be suspended in the interim. “We’re going to focus

on running this election and we’re not going to let this press release sidetrack us from doing our best in running this election for people in White County,” he said. Rogers said she hopes her name is corrected as soon as possible. “I’m disappointed in what is going on,” she said. “If no one had voted yet when they noticed, why didn’t they fix it? I’m also confused why it would say ‘...’ instead of ‘ers.’ They’re both three characters.” District 28 encompasses southeastern White County, all of Prairie County and portions of Lonoke, Monroe and Arkansas counties. Rogers said she contacted the other four counties in the district and was told that her name appears in full on their electronic voting machines. Collier said he is unsure as to why Rogers’ name is not truncated in other counties. Rogers’ opponent, incumbent State Sen. Jonathan Dismang, R-Searcy, said he has does not believe the election has been compromised. “From what I understand, the election commission has corrected the issue by posting her name inside the machines,” he said. “Our voters are educated. I’m confident they know who they’re voting for when they vote. I don’t think anything has been compromised.”

Griffin, repeatedly tried to tie the freshman lawmaker to Rove and national Republican interests more than the seven-county district. "Our congressman in Washington is a captive of Karl Rove and the Republican Party, of the banks and oil companies, and of Stephens Inc.," Rule said, referring to the Little Rock-based financial services company whose executives and political action committee have contributed to Griffin's campaign. "He does what they tell him to, not what Arkansans need and want."

Rule also invoked Griffin's short tenure as interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. Griffin was appointed after then-President George W. Bush's administration fired a number of federal prosecutors and installed political appointees. A two-year investigation into the firings concluded in 2010 that the Justice Department under Bush took actions that

were politically inappropriate but not criminal. Griffin worked in the White House Office of Political Affairs under Bush adviser Karl Rove, who supported Griffin for the U.S. attorney post. Griffin resigned the prosecutor post after six months. Griffin defended his time as interim U.S. attorney and accused Rule of using the same attacks he faced in his 2010 bid.

CONTINUED FROM 1A

to 4 p.m. Voting resumes Monday, Oct. 29, and will continue through Friday, Nov. 2 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Polls will be open Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the final day of early voting will be Monday, Nov. 5, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voters may cast bal-

lots off-site at Beebe City Hall today and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Election Day, Nov. 6, all precincts will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information about early voting, people may call the voter registration department of the White County Clerk’s Office at 501-2796207.

Corrections The Daily Citizen corrects factual errors promptly and courteously. If you have a correction or clarification, please call Editor Jacob Brower at (501) 2688621 or e-mail him at jbrower@thedailycitizen.com.

NAME CONTINUED FROM 1A

her name appears on the electronic ballot as “State Representative Tiffany Rog...” In a 5:52 p.m. Tuesday press release from the Arkansas Democratic Party titled “Elections in White County Compromised Due to Election Commission Mistake,” spokesman Candace Martin said, “Our number one priority is ensuring the right to vote in fair and lawful elections is available to the people of White County. A citizen has filed an affidavit which asks the White County Election Commission to correct their error immediately and to ensure that Tiffany Rogers’ name is corrected on the ballot. We fully expect that the Commission will own up to their responsibility to the hard-working taxpayers of White County who deserve the right to vote in an election that adheres to the law.” The citizen to whom the press release refers is Laura McKinney of Searcy. McKinney told The Daily Citizen that she noticed Rogers’ name had been truncated when she took part in early voting Monday morning and contacted Rogers via email. She said the state Democratic Party contacted her Tuesday morning and asked her to file an affidavit with the White County Clerk’s office to have Rogers’ name corrected on the

DEBATE CONTINUED FROM 1A

ington, you're not going to get anything done." Rule vowed to continue fighting the charges and urged voters to look at video of the stop that his campaign says shows it was unjustified and unwarranted. "I am not guilty," Rule said. "I respect the law, but I also respect the courts as the place to work out and decide what happened at the time of that arrest and whether that arrest was done with probable cause and reasonable cause." Rule, who has struggled in fundraising against

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FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2012

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Serving Searcy and White County, Ark., since 1854

LADY ’CATS, LADY RAMBLERS MEET TODAY BEEBE POLICE MAKE 3 RECENT ARRESTS An all-White County doubleheader today will decide the conference championship. — PAGE 1B

Police arrested an intoxicated man after he entered the police station asking to use a restroom. — PAGE 2A

Beebe: I will not push bypass Beebe says highway commission will make cuts where appropriate BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen

LITTLE ROCK — Gov. Mike Beebe on Thursday said he is in favor of the Highway 36/67 Connector Route bypass project going forward, but will not press the Arkansas State Highway Commission to make a full commitment to the project. Beebe said that Senate Republicans’ decision during the fiscal session to vote against suspending the rules to consider repealing the

diesel tax exemption for truckers will knock $4 million per year out of the highway department’s funding, placing the Searcy project and other projects around the state in jeopardy. “I’m obviously for the Searcy bypass project, but I’m not going to ask the highway department to spend money they don’t have,” Beebe told The Daily Citizen Thursday. “If they don’t have the money, they’ll have to make adjustPlease see BYPASS | 3A Beebe

Dismang

CONDOLEEZZA RICE SPEAKS AT HARDING

Grant Who: Searcy Fire Department What: Will be going doorto-door in low income and elderly neighborhoods checking and installing free smoke detectors Why: The department received a $4,000 grant from the Arkansas Fire Prevention Board in May 2011 When: Beginning Monday

Yarnell’s back in stores When: Yarnell’s will be in Searcy Walmart freezers 7 a.m. Monday. Flavors: 17 from original line, including ice cream sandwiches. Workers: 16 former employees are working at the Searcy plant, and company officials say they hope to hire more as the brand expands.

Yarnell’s in stores Monday 17 flavors, ice cream sandwiches available at 7 a.m. BY JACOB BROWER

Searcy firefighters to check detectors

jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

LITTLE ROCK — The wait will not be long for White Countians who have missed the taste of Yarnell’s Premium Ice Cream. The brand will be available at Walmart in Searcy at 7 a.m. Monday, and all grocery retailers that will carry the product should have it in freezers no later than May 18, Yarnell’s general manager Alex Bell said Thursday. The product is expected to be available at all 80 Walmart retailers in Arkansas by Wednesday. As first reported in the March 3 edition of The Daily Citizen, the company will bring back 17 flavors in its relaunch. The “Premium Red” flavors are Butter Pecan, Cookies & Cream, Death by Chocolate, Homemade Chocolate, Homemade Strawberry,

Firefighters to visit neighborhoods

The Searcy Fire Department will be going door-to-door in low income and elderly neighborhoods checking and installing free smoke detectors beginning Monday. The fire department received a $4,000 grant from the Arkansas Fire Prevention Board in May 2011 to purchase the smoke detectors. The department has purchased 569 smoke detectors. The firefighters will begin the door-to-door campaign from 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The first neighborhoods to be visited will be between Vine and Moore, Park and Woodruff and the subdivision north of Race and west of Maple. All the firefighters will be in uniform and have a fire department identification card. “The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that in 2010 there were 384,000 residential fires resulting in 2,665 deaths and 13,800 injuries,” said Fire Inspector Lisa Coleman. “That amounts to a home fire every 85 seconds, and one fire death almost every three hours. Of those fatalities, almost twothirds of them resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.” The Searcy Fire Department along with the National Fire Protection Administration recommends having a smoke detector in each bedroom and in the hallway. As a condition of the grant the department has to install the smoke detectors. Individuals needing smoke detectors should contact the Searcy Fire Department by calling (501) 279-1066. The caller’s information will be taken and fire department personnel will be assigned to install the smoke detectors.

Please see YARNELL’S | 3A

Lawmakers start lengthy tax study Molly M. Fleming/mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice addressed a capacity crowd Thursday night at Harding University’s Benson Auditorium. Rice was the final speaker in this year’s American Studies Institute Distinguished Lecture series. Her presentation was titled, “Looking back and moving forward for a stronger America.” She discussed three main areas: the Arab Spring, the economic crisis, and the economic influences of Brazil, Russia, India and China.

Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK — Sen. Mark Pryor said Thursday he’s running for a third term in 2014, as Arkansas’ only Democratic senator dismissed rumors that he planned to retire or run for governor. Pryor said he’s months from organizing his re-election campaign, but that he’s begun telling close friends and supporters about his plans in an effort to tamp down speculation. He previously said he was leaning toward running, but wouldn’t make a decision until after the November election.

“I really look forward to going around the state and talking about what I’ve been able to accomplish in Washington,” Pryor told The Associated Press. “Washington is a dysfunctional place right now, and some people may wonder, ‘Can anybody sane really want to do this job?’ But I think it’s important and I love representing Arkansas, and I wanted to be clear with people that that would be my intention.” In a letter to friends and supports last month, Pryor said he’s heard rumors around the state that he would retire to run for governor or take a po-

Associated Press

sition with a university. Pryor wrote that he had even heard speculation that he may join the seminary. “Regardless of these rumors, I am planning on running for re-election in 2014,” Pryor wrote in the letter, which was first reported Thursday morning on the Arkansas Times’ website. “In the Senate, I have built relationships and I have worked hard to put myself in the position to best help Arkansas — and I’d like to continue those efforts.” Pryor said Thursday none

LITTLE ROCK — The cochairman of a legislative panel that will spend the next several months studying the Arkansas tax code said Thursday that the dozens of exemptions for industries should be reviewed more regularly. The House and Senate Revenue and Taxation committees reviewed 103 exemptions affecting sales of items ranging from groceries to baby chickens as lawmakers prepare for a legislative session that’s expected to be marked by competing tax cut ideas. The meeting was the first of several the panels expect to have on the state’s tax code ahead of the legislative session that begins in January. Rep. Davy Carter, the House panel’s chairman, said he doesn’t expect most of the exemptions to be changed by lawmakers during next year’s session. “I think it would be benefi-

Please see PRYOR | 2A

Please see TAXES | 2A

Pryor says he’s running for re-election BY ANDREW DEMILLO

BY ANDREW DEMILLO

INDEX NATION & STATE, 2A OPINIONS, 4A LIFESTYLES, 5A CALENDAR/OBITUARIES, 6A SPORTS, 1B CLASSIFIEDS, 5B

“

The empires of the future are the empires of the mind. WINSTON CHURCHILL British conservative politician

”

The Daily Citizen

Friday, April 20, 2012 • Page 3A

FROM PAGE ONE Clinton: I had cultural advantage on gun laws BY KAREN MATTHEWS Associated Press

Jacob Brower/jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

Gov. Mike Beebe speaks to hundreds in attendance at a press conference in Little Rock Thursday morning announcing the return of Yarnell’s Premium Ice Cream to store freezers, while Searcy Mayor David Morris, left, and Shulze & Burch Biscuit Company CEO Kevin Boyle listen. The ice cream will be on sale in Searcy, beginning at 7 a.m. Monday.

YARNELL’S CONTINUED FROM 1A

Homemade Vanilla, Real Vanilla, Ozark Black Walnut and Rocky Road. Frozen yogurt flavors will be Blueberries and Cream, Chocolate, Peaches and Cream, Strawberry and Vanilla. “Guilt free” flavors will be Butter Pecan, Chocolate and Vanilla. According a press release, the company will look to bring back other

flavors over time depending on consumer feedback. The company has no plans to produce Razorbackthemed ice cream, such as Woo Pig Chewy, because those products were part of a licensing agreement with the University of Arkansas that no longer exists. Kevin Boyle, CEO of Yarnell’s parent company Chicago-based Shulze & Burch Biscuit Company, reiterated at a Thursday press

conference at the state capitol that the recipes remain unchanged from the recipes used by the original Yarnell’s company, which closed its doors on June 30, 2011. One change is the squared container, while Boyle said will aid in storage. Another change is the number of employees. Yarnell’s employed approximately 200 workers when it closed its doors last

summer, but now employs only 16 — all of whom are former employees. Company officials say they hope to hire more workers at the Searcy plant as the company expands the brand. Yarnell’s is not limiting its product to the state of Arkansas. The brand will also be distributed in southern Missouri, eastern Oklahoma and northern Mississippi, according to a press release.

NEW YORK — President Barack Obama should not bother trying to pass gun-control legislation because the issue is partly cultural and Obama is from an urban area, former President Bill Clinton said Thursday. Clinton was asked about the gun issue during his keynote address at a New York City conference on sustainability. The former president said Obama is from Chicago and “he was in the state Senate from the most liberal district in Chicago.” Clinton said he was able to sign the 1993 Brady handgun law, which mandated federal background checks for gun buyers, because he was from Arkansas, had grown up among hunters and had hunted in his youth.

“I knew what to do,” Clinton said. “They couldn’t turn me into some freak, and I went after them.” He added, “I have an unusual cultural advantage to deal with this on a legislative basis.” Likely Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney told the National Rifle Association last week that Obama would like to erode gun owners’ rights. But the topic has rarely arisen during Obama’s time in office, and guncontrol advocates have expressed disappointment with the president. Clinton also mentioned the Romney aide who last month compared his candidate’s shift from the primary fight to the general election to an Etch A Sketch. “He told the truth,” Clinton said. “Sometimes it’s the worst sin you can commit in politics.”

BYPASS CONTINUED FROM 1A

ments.” Beebe said he would not speculate where the Searcy project should rank in the order of projects to be cut. “I’m not in any position to rank all the highways in the state of Arkansas,” he said. “That’s what the highway commission is for. Obviously, I have a little prejudice in favor of Searcy because that’s where I’m from, but I still have to govern the whole state.” Beebe said he was disappointed that Senate Republicans, including Sen. Jonathan Dismang, RSearcy, voted to block the diesel tax bill during the fiscal session. “You’ll have to ask those 13 senators why they did what they did, of which Dismang was one,” Beebe said. “There was an agreement. The House Republicans favored it. I don’t know what on earth motivated those folks down there, but it was pretty much a blocked vote. “It’s really sad. It’s sad for Searcy. It’s sad for any projects around the state.” The issue came to the floor three days before the fiscal session adjourned, and Dismang said he voted to block the measure because he did not want to have to choose between voting to repeal the tax exemption and voting on a bill he initially sponsored making it more difficult for online sexual predators to get released on parole. By the end of the session, neither measure was successful. “Right now, sexual predators are guaran-

Jacob Brower/jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

Gov. Mike Beebe speaks to reporters at the state Capitol Thursday morning. Beebe told The Daily Citizen that he hopes the Highway 36/67 Connector Route goes forward as planned, but said he will not press the highway commission to make the project a priority.

Bypass in question Gov. Mike Beebe on Thursday said he hopes the Highway 36/67 Connector Route project goes forward, but will not push the Arkansas State Highway Commission to make it a priority. teed mandatory parole, which means they’re serving one-third of their sentence time or less,” Dismang said. “We were under the understanding that no non-fiscal matters would be considered. I didn’t think it would be appropriate to consider a tax issue, but not an issue about keeping sexual predators off the streets.” Dismang said he spoke to Beebe on the next to

last day of the fiscal session, in which Beebe expressed concerns about the future of the Searcy bypass project. Dismang said he attempted to get the trucker tax issue brought back to the Senate floor, but was told by Democratic leadership that it was too late. Dismang said he was opposed to the exemption when it was first proposed during the 2011 regular session, and that he plans to support repeal during the 2013 session if reelected. Dismang did not directly respond when asked about Beebe’s comments. “I don’t want to get into an argument with the governor, but there was quite a bit more that occurred during the session,” he said. “If we’re going to point a finger at anyone, it’s the law itself.

These were not fiscal matters, and it’s probably best that no action was taken.” Highway Commission John Burkhalter told The Citizen last Friday that he is optimistic about the project going forward, but could not say with 100 percent certainty that it would be completed as planned. White County and the city of Searcy have both committed to funding a combined $6 million toward the $40 million bypass project. The county was able to pay its portion of the $3 million with funds from the county general budget. The city had to pass a 1 percent sales tax in December in order to raise the necessary $3 million. The city tax collection began on April 1 and will sunset after 15 months.

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LETTER EXPLAINS MAYOR ASSAULT VERDICT BIG STOP SECURES TICKET TO TITLE GAME Judge Mark Pate said the state did not meet its burden of proof in prosecuting an assault case. — PAGE 3A

Harding Academy’s defense rose to the challenge, sending the Wildcats to the title game. — PAGE 1B

Pool in 2013 budget proposal Mayor recommends keeping pool open despite financial, environmental concerns BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

The proposed 2013 budget on which members of the Searcy City Council will vote this month will include a line item to reopen the leaky municipal pool for

Municipal Pool What: The proposed budget on which members of the city council will vote includes funding to keep the pool open another year. Cost: Pool season this past summer cost the city $128,152.39

the 2013 season. Mayor David Morris said he will pass along a budget proposal to the council that includes funding for the nearly Please see POOL | 2A

Searcy Sanitation

Morris

SEARCY CHRISTMAS PARADE DRAWS CROWD

Earlier this year, the Searcy Sanitation Department had lost nearly $50,000. However, the department has improved its financial state and is only down $23,457.

City sanitation finances improving Department still losing money, despite revenue sources BY MOLLY M. FLEMING mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

The financial situation at the Searcy Sanitation Department has improved, but the numbers are still in the red. As of the end of July, the department had a negative balance of $48,967.01, but as the end Shock of October, the department only had a negative balance of $23,457.67.

Please see SANITATION | 2A

World champion duck caller

Kyle Troutman/ktroutman@thedailycitizen.com

Santa Claus waves to people lining the street as he passes the White County Courthouse during Searcy’s annual Christmas parade Saturday evening. At left, Belinda Anderson and Kaleigh Anderson, 3, wave at Santa Claus as he passes them near the corner of Main Street and Race Avenue during Searcy’s parade.

Who: Brad Allen, 39, of Judsonia What: Recently won his second duck calling world championship in Stuttgart

Judsonia man revels in second title One-of-a-kind duck call helps Allen win

Local firefighters stress safety in winter Space heaters, chimneys leading cause of house fires BY KYLE TROUTMAN ktroutman@thedailycitizen.com

With winter weather quickly approaching, local fire departments are hoping to make sure residents stay safe while staying warm. Bald Knob Fire Chief Danny Holobaugh said space heaters are the biggest threat to homes, but not the only one. “Everyone uses space heat-

Fire safety What: Local fire departments hope citizens will make themselves aware of fire safety in the winter Leading cause: Heating equipment (space heaters) was involved in an estimated 57,100 house fires in 2010, resulting in 490 deaths, 1,540 injuries and $1.1 billion in property damage. ers and they never put them in the right place,” he said. “A

space heater is what it says — it needs space.” According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 57,100 house fires in 2010, resulting in 490 deaths, 1,540 injuries and $1.1 billion in property damage. Nearly half (49 percent) of these fires occurred in December, January and February. More than half of the fatal home fires (53 percent) were attributed to space heater placement. Space heaters should be kept away from

BY KYLE TROUTMAN ktroutman@thedailycitizen.com

things that may burn, such as furniture, clothing, mattresses or bedding. “People set up the space heater, plug it in, then never pay attention to it when it could be close to something and get hot,” Holobaugh said. “Space heaters need to be put in an area with plenty of room.” Lisa Coleman, Searcy fire marshal, agreed about the dangers of space heaters and shared her advice on how to handle them.

Every year since 1998, on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, 39-yearold Judsonian Brad Allen calls ducks. However, Allen isn’t in a blind or a field. He’s on Main Street in Stuttgart. This year, Allen won his Allen second duck calling world championship. Although the prize package is worth

Please see SAFETY | 2A

Please see ALLEN | 3A

INDEX NATION & STATE, 2A OPINIONS, 4A LIFESTYLES, 5A CALENDAR/OBITUARIES, 6A SPORTS, 1B CLASSIFIEDS, 5B

“

To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance. OSCAR WILDE 19th Century Irish writer and poet

”

Page 2A • Sunday, December 2, 2012

The Daily Citizen

FROM PAGE ONE

Teacher questions cost of insurance Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK — A northern Arkansas public school teacher wants to know why public school employees pay more than twice as much for insurance as state employees and what state lawmakers plan to do about it. The Arkansas DemocratGazette reported Shelley Branscum of Fox told members of the House and Senate education committees' Joint Subcommittee on Public School Employee Health Insurance that she learned how much less state employees pay while she investigated a

20 percent increase in insurance premiums that is to go into effect Jan. 1. Public school employees, including teachers, cafeteria workers and janitors, are considered employees of the individual school districts, not state employees. In 2013, a state employee with the best possible coverage and no dependents will pay $95.78 per month, while a public school employee with the same circumstance will pay $226.70, more than twice as much. A state employee with family members in the

top, or gold, plan will pay $419.62 a month. A public school employee in the same situation will pay $1,029.96 per month. "That's outrageous," said Branscum, an art, Spanish and journalism teacher at the Fox Rural Special School in Stone County. "We can't afford our insurance" The state provides $390 a month for insurance for every state employee, compared with $131 a month for each school employee. The $131 comes from the state's funding plan, which in the 2012-13 school year

provides districts $6,267 per student. The school districts are expected to add to that $131 minimum contribution paid by the state from their own funds. However, they aren't required to do so and some use the remainder for other needs, Arkansas Education Association Executive Director Rich Nagel said. Subcommittee Co-chairman Sen. Johnny Key, RMountain Home, said the Legislature will likely address the issue in the 2013 session, but he doesn't expect major changes to occur quickly.

through daily admission fees, season passes, pool party fees and day care fees. Besides the $85,837.56 cost of wages and benefits for pool staff, the largest expenditure was $39,311.52 for water and sewer services. No money changes hands for water and sewer, since the city donates the service to itself for pool season. City Engineer Mark Lane said the 275,000-gallon pool has used 13,342,100 gallons of water this year, enough water to fill it 48-1⁄2 times. A fiberglass liner was installed in 1990 and was intended to last the city 10 years. The liner is repaired annually in order for the pool to continue operations. The cost of repairs this past season was $3,003.13. In January 2011, Lane said that pool should only be using 1.1 million gallons, and recommended that the pool be closed due to environmental concerns regarding the large amount of chlorinated water being leaked into the soil and nearby Gin Creek. Lane said he has not reiterated his previous recommendation to Morris and the city council, but it still stands. “My recommendation has not changed,” he said. “It’s

not good to be losing water out of the pool. It’s either going into the ground or into the creek, probably some of both. A pool this size should be using nowhere near 13 million gallons a year.” Brian Smith, Searcy parks and recreation director, said he is frustrated that steps have not been taken toward acquiring a new pool, but believes the current pool is better than no pool at all. “As long as we do not have to spend a great amount of money on any repairs and if we can do business as normal within our existing budget, I think it offers another service to the community at a marginal cost to the city,” he said. “Considering the city’s annual budget is $15 million, this is money well spent to provide a recreational service for our community.” Price, who also serves as head coach of the Searcy Sharks swim team, said he hopes the council decides to continue funding the pool. The Sharks feature between 50 and 70 swimmers per year from ages 6 to 18. The team holds competitions and practices at the municipal pool during pool season and the Ganus Athletic Center at Harding University during the off-season. When asked what would

happen to the Sharks should the municipal pool close, Price said, “We would cease to exist.” The Sharks are funded through membership dues, but also through admission and concession fees for home meets. The Sharks do not pay for use of the city pool, but pay around $1,000 per year for use of the Harding pool, Price said. “We hosted the AAU state championships this past summer and, this summer, it’s moving to Bryant because they have a new municipal pool,” he said. “This will bring 500 swimmers to that meet alone. It hurts to lose that, but there are other meets we just can’t do without.” Morris said he will understands concerns about keeping the pool open, but believes the money will be well spent. “You could take that $100,000 and give employee bonuses or three new police cars of repave some streets,” he said. “But a recreational opportunity for our citizens is a good expenditure of our money because the kids need recreational opportunities in the summer. “A municipality the size of Searcy should provide a pool.”

POOL CONTINUED FROM 1A

50-year-old pool. Building a new similarly sized pool would cost the city at least $4 million, which the city cannot afford on its $15 million budget, he said. “My recommendation will be to patch it up as best we can and see how it goes,” he said. “Obviously, there isn’t any new revenue available to start a new pool and our only options are to patch the pool and operate under the existing funds or simply shut the pool down. “I feel like a tremendous amount of the people in Searcy who use the pool, a lot of them don’t have the means to go to the lake, or use a privately-funded pool or put a pool in their yard. There are a lot of people who use the pool that don’t have any viable option.” The cost of admission at the pool is $2 per day, single-person season passes are $50 and family season passes are $140. Including repeat customers, the pool served approximately 7,500 people this past season, according to Chad Price, pool manager. This past summer, the pool cost the city a total of $128,152.39, and the city generated only $13,465.90

SANITATION CONTINUED FROM 1A

Jay Shock, Searcy chief of staff, said the decline at the beginning of the year was because of a number of annual expenses the department has to pay during the first quarter. Those expenses include workers’ compensation, insurance on the sanitation building and vehicles. The department has paid $63,289.35 in workers compensation this year, but that amount is paid in four increments, rather than at one time. The total must be paid off by June, Shock said. The department has also paid $13,393.54 in insurance for the building and $20,915 for vehicle insurance, which is due by Jan. 15. “We then collected revenues in September and October, and we didn’t have to pay those expenses,” Shock said. “We were able to have more revenue and less expenses because we paid our bills up front.” He said the department — like everyone else in the county — has saved money on its bills because of a decrease in the cost of gasoline. Between July and August, the cost of gasoline reached $3.40 a gallon, but has since decreased to $3.17 in Searcy. Shock said the department has seen a increase in revenue from recycling and trash bins being used, but neither of those items are as high as they once were, which is one of the factors as to why the department is in the negative. A decrease in commercial pick-up, as well as a decline in companies using the city for cardboard recycling are two reasons why the revenue to the department has decline. A third reason is because of a decline in the amount of 40-yard bins that have been rented through the department, which Shock said is a reflection of the economic climate in the area. Shock has previously recommended for the city to increase commercial rates, as he said businesses would be able to pass those expenses off to their customers, whereas residents would have to pay those costs from their own pockets. Shock presented the financial state of the department to the city council in August. At that time, council members said they would like to have a special meeting to address the financial state of the department. However, that meeting has yet to be held. The council will have a special meeting on Thursday before its regular agenda meeting to discuss city employees receiving bonuses. Shock said the financial state of the sanitation department could improve as the year comes to an end. “It’s a moving target,” Shock said. “Everything is a moving target every month. It just depends on what expenses we’ve had to pay.”

SAFETY “I tell people there needs to be 3 feet around it that’s completely clear,” she said. “And never leave it on when you’re not at home. People do that to keep the house warm when they’re not gone long, but it’s never a good idea.” Coleman said people looking to buy space heaters should seek out newer models, as many have safety devices that shut them off if the units are knocked over. While space heaters are a major concern, Ho-

lobaugh said the department also gets lots of calls about chimneys, which can cause fires if not properly cleaned. “Creosote builds up from wood burned in a fireplace during the winter and sits there during the summer months,” he said. “Then, when someone lights a fire in the fireplace, it starts a fire in the chimney, and you can’t put water on it because it will crack. So, we usually have to wait until it burns itself out.” Coleman said chimney fires and controlled burns, people burning

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leaves or pine needles, are more of an issue in Searcy. “Have your chimney cleaned once per year and make sure you have working smoke detectors and a home escape plan,” she said. She also advises people with wood-burning stoves to use them properly. The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) advises people with such stoves to make sure they are installed properly and away from combustible surfaces,

along with ensuring proper ventilation to prevent smoke building up in the home. Coleman also said when using traditional fireplaces, be sure to use screens to prevent embers from escaping onto carpets or furniture. Beyond space heaters, chimneys, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and controlled burns, Holobaugh said basic fire prevention techniques are also important. “Check your smoke detectors and make sure the batteries are fresh,” he

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Daily Citizen TheDailyCitizen.com

Serving Searcy and White County, Ark., since 1854 4

COUNTY JUDGE RACE FEATURES 2 OPPONENTS RIVERVIEW HEADS TO LONOKE TOURNEY After expressing interest, a local radio executive decided not to enter the White County Judge’s race. — PAGE 3A

The Raiders are looking to gain experience with an early-season tourney this weekend. — PAGE 1B

Former JP to replace Osborn

Quorum Court The Republican Party will hold at least a 9-4 majority on the White County Quorum Court as of 2013.

GOP to widen Quorum Court majority Republicans will pick up at least one seat in county government

Pritchett is county GOP chairman, served as JP in late 1980s BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

The White County Quorum Court will see at least one change in 2013. Republican Joel “JP” Pritchett will replace Democrat Bud Osborn as Justice of the Peace from District 12, which covers the central portion of the city of Searcy.

Pritchett served as the justice from District 13 from 1988-89, but had to step down when he took a job as an auditor for the state of Arkansas. He has served as chairman of the White County Republican Party since January 2011, and his term expires on Dec.

New Justice of the Peace Who: Joel “JP” Pritchett Party: Republican Political experience: District 13 JP from 1988-89, current White County Republican chairman

Pritchett

Please see PEACE | 2A Osborn

BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

Republicans will hold at least a 9-4 majority in the White County Quorum Court, starting in January 2013. Seven Republican incumbents will return to the court, while one race will be a primary race between two Republicans. Democrat Bud Osborn, District 12, was the only incumbent to not run for re-election. He will be replaced by Republican Joel “JP” Pritchett, who is running unopposed. Republicans Bobby Burns (District 2), Cameron Cooper (District 3), Allen King (District 4), Shane Allen Sellers (District 6), Mike Cleveland (District 9), Bobby Quattlebaum (District 10) and Ron Gibbs (District 13) are running unopposed and will return to their seats in 2013. Republican David Schoenberger is challenging fellow Republican incumbent Ed Land in District 11. Four other seats on the Quorum Court will be contested. Republican Nathan Ray is chal-

CATS IN THE HATS ATTEND LITERACY EVENT

White County homicide Suspect: Derrick Lynn Williams Victim: Robbie Blagg Charge: Capital murder

Suspect found mentally fit for trial Defense can have suspect re-tested BY MOLLY M. FLEMING mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

A Searcy man charged with capital murder has been found to be mentally fit to stand trial, according to an examination by the state hospital. Derrick Lynn Williams, 31, of Searcy sought a mental exam in late December after being accused of stabbing to death Robbie Joey Blagg, 37. Williams has pleaded not guilty to the crime. The mental examination conducted by the state hos- Williams pital found that Williams was “mentally fit” to proceed with a trial, according to 17th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Chris Raff. A trial date has not been set yet. Williams is being represented by public defender Pat Aydelott. Williams will appear in White County Division 2 Circuit Court on Wednesday at 9 a.m. where his attorney will discuss whether Williams plans to seek a private mental examination. Raff said Williams has the legal right to have a second examination. Williams was arrested in November and charged with one count of capital murder in connection with the death of Blagg. The charge could bring him life

Please see WIDEN | 3A

Vehicle fatality Victim: Cheryl Hill, 55, of Ward Location: Highway 31 near mile marker 5.4 in White County Time: Approximately 2 p.m. Tuesday

Woman, 55, killed in White County crash Collision on Highway 31 claims life of Ward resident The Daily Citizen

A two-vehicle accident on Highway 31 near mile marker 5.4 in White County claimed the life of a Ward woman. Cheryl Hill, 55, was killed at approximately 2 p.m. Tuesday while traveling northbound in a 2005 Chevrolet truck. A 2006 Volkswagen, driven by Nathaniel Crump, 24, of Beebe, crossed into the northbound lanes and struck the Hill’s vehicle, according to a report from Trooper Mike McNeil of the Arkansas State Police. Hill, who was wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Crump was not injured. Road conditions were dry and the weather was clear at the the time of the crash. Police did not release any further details. The crash is still under investigation.

Marisa Lytle/mlytle@thedailycitizen.com

Cheryl Faulk watches Grayden Armstrong as he decorates a cookie at the “Red Fish, Blue Fish Art Fun” station during Dr. Seuss Night at McRae Elementary School Thursday night. Many booths were set up for the purpose of encouraging literacy and celebrating Dr. Seuss’ birthday.

6 local officials to serve another term in 2013 Sheriff, state representative, others gain no opposition BY JACOB BROWER jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

White County Sheriff Ricky Shourd, a Republican, will return to office in 2013 after not receiving an opponent as of the noon Thursday filing deadline.

WEATHER Today: Mostly sunny. Rain likely. Highs in the upper 70s. Southwest winds 20 to 25 mph. Tonight: Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 30s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Vol. 158, No. 53 ©2012 The Daily Citizen

Please see MURDER | 2A

Shourd took office in 2007 and has never faced a challenger since his initial race. His next term will expire in 2015. Shourd was not available for Please see SERVE | 3A

No opposition Six White County officials and State Rep. Jeremy Gillam, R-Judsonia, will return to office after not drawing opposition as of the noon Thursday filing deadline.

INDEX NATION & STATE, 2A OPINIONS, 4A LIFESTYLES, 5A CALENDAR/OBITUARIES, 6A SPORTS, 1B CLASSIFIEDS, 5B

“

Shourd

Gillam

Tact is the ability to describe others as they see themselves. ABRAHAM LINCOLN 16th President of the United States

”

Page 2A • Friday, March 2, 2012

The Daily Citizen

FROM PAGE ONE Briefs

Smith not eligible due to felony

Associated Press

Session end in limbo over trucker tax break

BY ANDREW DEMILLO

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas House and Senate leaders remained split Thursday on whether there’s still time to negate a tax break for truckers after they failed to reach an agreement on three nonbudget issues before a self-imposed deadline to end this year’s session by the weekend. Senate President Paul Bookout said the Senate was headed toward recessing the legislative session Friday as originally planned, while House Speaker Robert Moore said he was working toward a lastminute compromise. “Proposals have been made, counterproposals made, and there has been no finality to the process,” Moore said. “We’ll continue through the night and in the morning. We’ll either have some sort of agreement, or we’re going to go home at 10 o’clock tomorrow.” The tax exemption on commercial truck sales was among three final issues remaining before the Legislature wraps up a session intended to focus primarily on the state’s budget.

LITTLE ROCK — A former state representative who resigned last year after a felony theft conviction is trying to run for the Legislature again, but state Democratic officials say it appears he’s not eligible for the seat. Former state Rep. Fred Smith filed Thursday to run in the east Arkansas district from which he’d resigned last year because of the felony conviction that made him ineligible. State Democratic Party Chairman Will Bond says Smith’s attorneys told the party that Smith was in the process of having his conviction expunged. But the circuit clerk’s office in Chicot County — where Smith was convicted — said Thursday his record had not been expunged. The office also said there had been no papers filed to have Smith’s criminal record sealed. “As it stands right now, we don’t think we can certify his candidacy,” Arkansas Democratic Party spokeswoman Candace Martin said.

Associated Press

Court upholds sentence in Fort Smith case LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Supreme Court has upheld the conviction and death sentence of a man who crashed into his estranged wife’s car at a busy Fort Smith intersection then fatally stabbed her. Thomas Springs had argued that he had ineffectual legal counsel in his 2005 trial when he was convicted of capital murder in the death of Christina Springs. Thomas Springs argued that his lawyer should have called his son to testify during the sentencing portion of the trial. But the Arkansas Supreme Court noted Thursday that Springs’ lawyers called 14 other witnesses who provided positive testimony about Springs’ character, work ethic and love for his children. The court says the son’s testimony likely wouldn’t have changed the jury’s decision to sentence Springs to death.

Associated Press

Former Arkansas state Rep. Fred Smith pleads his case to Democratic Party workers as State Democratic Party Chairman Will Bond (left) talks on the phone to try to resolve whether or not Smith was eligible to file to run for his former seat on the last day of filing Thursday morning at the state Capitol in Little Rock. Bond says he told Smith — a former Harlem Globetrotter from Crawfordsville— that he would have to forfeit his $3,000 filing fee if he’s found to be ineligible. “Since we don’t know if the order has been entered or will be entered and filing is at the closing, we’re going

Prosecutor joins congressional race in east LITTLE ROCK — A prosecutor who agreed to the deal that freed the West Memphis Three joined the Democratic race for an east Arkansas congressional seat. Prosecutor Scott Ellington’s entrance creates a potentially heated primary for a district Democrats hope to regain in November. He submitted paperwork to run for the Democratic party’s nomination for the 1st Congressional District, making his bid official shortly before Thursday’s deadline for federal and state candidates to file in Arkansas.

BY CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER AND PAUL WISEMAN Associated Press

Associated Press

Obama’s commitment President Barack Obama talks about U.S. oil dependence Thursday in Nashua, N.H. At a fundraiser — a $5,000-a-person reception — Obama defended his commitment to Israel’s security, particularly amid the turbulence in the Middle East and North Africa, where some long-time leaders having been pushed from power over the past year. The sweeping changes, he said, make foreign policy in the region more complex. “It used to be easier to deal with one person who was an autocrat when it came to knowing who you could strike a deal with,” Obama said. With the region’s leadership structure changing, Obama said the U.S. would have to take into account the “politics and the attitudes of people in the region,” some of which he acknowledged were anti-Israel.

PEACE: Pritchett was only candidate to file for District 12 JP seat CONTINUED FROM 1A

31. He said he has not decided whether he will run for re-election as party chairman, though bylaws do not prohibit it. Osborn, who is in his 20th year on the Quorum Court, was arrested for driving while intoxicated four months ago on Thanksgiving afternoon. He is set to appear in court to face charges on May 1. Pritchett was the only candidate to file for the District 12 seat as of Thursday’s noon deadline, meaning he will run unopposed for the seat. Pritchett said Osborn’s arrest did not play a factor

in his decision to run. “Not at all,” he said. “This is an opportunity to serve the people. This is something I’ve wanted to do since I was formerly on the Quorum Court. I appreciate Mr. Osborn’s 20 years of service to White County.” Osborn said his arrest did not play a factor in his decision not to seek reelection. “It wasn’t something I considered,” he said. “All that kind of dies down over time. I’m almost 80 years old and I’ve been on the court for 20 years and I figured it was time that someone else do it. I’m still mentally able to do the job, but I’m not as able, physically, as I

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itol on Thursday, Smith gave a brief, rambling interview, in which he said he was running again “to clear my name and give God all the glory.” “I’m the Tim Tebow of state representatives,” Smith said, comparing himself to the devout NFL quarterback.

Jobs picture brightens, but economy awaiting liftoff

Bad Boy Mowers adds 150 jobs in Batesville BATESVILLE — Bad Boy Mowers says it will expand its operations in Batesville, investing $7.4 million and adding 150 jobs. With the expansion, Bad Boy Mowers will employ more than 550 people in Arkansas. The company makes zero-turn mowers and multi-terrain vehicles that are distributed throughout the United States and in Australia, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Bad Boy Mowers was established in 1998 in Diaz and began production at its Batesville location in 2002. The company’s owners say a strong workforce and demand for their products led to the expansion. With the expansion, the company will begin manufacturing additional versions of multi-terrain vehicles that are used for agricultural, recreational and industrial purposes.

to accept his paperwork with the understanding that he could ineligible and could lose his filing fee unless he’s met the requirements,” Bond said. Smith made his bid official shortly before the deadline to file for state office on Thursday. As he left the state Cap-

used to be.” White County Judge Michael Lincoln said he was not surprised by Osborn’s decision not to seek re-election. “I was under the impression even before the arrest that this was going to be Bud’s last term,” he said. “Twenty years is a long time to serve. I wouldn’t see myself wanting to run for office when I’m in my late 70s.”

Lincoln’s challenger, Bill Haynie, commended Osborn on his decision not to run again. “I think it was a wise move,” he said. “I’ve always liked Mr. Bud, but this was just an unfortunate thing. Maybe this is good for him, good for his health. I have a lot of respect for the man. “It hurts that he has to go out on this note, but he did the right thing.”

WASHINGTON — After years of bad news begetting more bad news, the American economy may finally be building momentum in the other direction. A flurry of economic reports issued Thursday captured some solid recent gains: Companies are hiring. Factories and department stores are busier. Americans are buying more cars. And the stock market just ended its best February in 14 years. But Thursday’s reports also showed that a healthier job market hasn’t translated into bigger paychecks for workers or a surge in consumer spending. And the progress of the past few months is now threatened by a rise in

gasoline prices. On one hand, analysts say the economy may be on the verge of a “virtuous cycle,” in which stronger hiring fuels more consumer spending, which leads to even more hiring and spending. On the other hand, even months of improvement have yet to demonstrate that the cycle can sustain itself. “When you get this sort of hodgepodge and notso-good results, you start to see the true nature of this recovery,” said Sean Snaith, director of the University of Central Florida’s Institute for Economic Competitiveness. A healthier job market hasn’t produced bigger paychecks or a surge in consumer spending. The housing market is still weak. A European recession threatens to hold back U.S. growth.

MURDER: Blagg found stabbed in ditch near Jusdonia highway CONTINUED FROM 1A

in jail or the death penalty. Blagg was found with multiple stab wounds in a ditch near 160 Highway 258 in the Judsonia area at 10:30 p.m. on Nov. 9. Admission $200 Tuesdays or Thursdays $100 PG

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WILDCATS PLAY FOR TICKET TO TITLE GAME PANGBURN HOSTS CHRISTMAS EVENT TODAY W H Harding Academy hosted Fountain Lake Friday ffor a chance to advance to the title game. — PAGE 1B

The Pangburn Museum will be decorated with holiday memorabilia for an Old-Fashioned Christmas. — PAGE 3A

Parties settle lotto lawsuit

Commission chairman resigns Who: Winston Collier Effective: January 2013

Terms of settlement kept confidential

Election panel head resigns

BY MOLLY M. FLEMING mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

The parties who were set to go to court to decide ownership of a $1 million winning lottery ticket settled out of court on Friday morning. Defense attorney Jimmy Simpson, representing Sharon

Lottery Defense: Sharon Jones, represented by Jimmy Simpson Plaintiffs: Sharon Duncan, Lisa Petriches, Luay Dejani, and Summer One, L.L.C. What happened: The parties settled out of court. The terms of the settlement were kept confidential. Jones, said terms of the settlement will not be made public.

“The terms are confidential and sealed,” Simpson said. “Any time there’s a settlement both sides have to give some, but we’re pleased.” The plaintiffs in the case were Sharon Duncan, Lisa Petriches, Luay Dejani, and Summer One, L.L.C. They were being represented by Sam Hilburn, Traci LaCerra, Steven Underwood and James “Red” Morgan. Morgan said the plaintiffs’ attorneys were pleased as well. “The attorneys met and the clients met, and we reached a

HARDING HOMES TOUR SET FOR SUNDAY

Collier cites desire to ‘pursue other opportunities’ in resignation

settlement before they started calling jury names,” Morgan said. “Everybody’s happy and pleased. We were very pleased. It’s been a long time.” There was $490,000 remaining from the jackpot when the lawsuit was filed. That was after the Jones family spent $190,000 and $320,000 was taken out for taxes. Simpson said he could not recall as to who made the first deal in terms of a settlement. Please see LAWSUIT | 2A

Open House Where: Pioneer Village When: Saturday, Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. What to expect: Santa Claus and his sleigh, roaming carolers, Christmas decorations

BY JACOB BROWER

Pioneer Village to celebrate Christmas

jbrower@thedailycitizen.com

The chairman of the White County Election Commission resigned from the panel Friday, citing a desire to “pursue other opportunities.” Winston Collier, who has served on the commission since 2009, declined to specify what inter- Collier ests he wants to pursue, but said he has not ruled out a run for public office. “Serving as chair of the election commission, you can’t

Center will host first-ever holiday open house BY MOLLY M. FLEMING mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

and is in the holiday spirit, and it’s a fun thing for people,” she said. “Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year and its great to see how different people deco-

Santa Claus will not be coming to town with gifts for a few more weeks, but he will be visiting Pioneer Village in Searcy during its first-ever Christmas Open House. The village usually hosts two open house events each year, but officials decided to help people get in the Christmas spirit with a third event. The open house will be held Saturday, Dec. 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pioneer Village is located at 1166 Higginson Street in Searcy. “This is really just a feel-good day to help get people in the Christmas spirit,” said Elizabeth Heard with Friends of Pioneer Village. “We want people to step back in time to a Christmas without all of the glitz and bling. It’s a great way to kick off the Christmas season and see how it was during simpler times.” Visitors to the village will be treated to hot apple cider and sugar cookies, made by Carolyn Bowman. All buildings will be opened and adorned with Christmas decorations similar to those used in the 1800s. People can have their pictures taken with Santa and his sleigh, but they must bring their own cameras. Donations will be accepted for a photo with Santa. All donations will help with the maintenance of Pioneer Village. To help set the Christmas spirit, carolers will be roaming the village singing favorite holi-

Please see HOMES | 3A

Please see VILLAGE | 2A

Please see COLLIER | 2A

Griffin named to Ways and Means Committee BY ANDREW DEMILLO Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK — Rep. Tim Griffin, an Arkansas Republican, was named Friday to the powerful U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, a move that he says rules out a run for governor or the Senate in 2014. The panel announced that Griffin, who represents central Arkansas' 2nd District, was among four new Republican members. It is the chief taxwriting committee and members are not allowed to serve on other committees unless they receive a waiver from congressional leaders. Griffin is the first congressman from Arkansas to serve on the panel since 1992 and the first Republican from the state. "Being on the Ways and Means Committee is one of the best jobs in Washington," Griffin said. "I think it's great news for my constituents and great news for all of Arkansas." Please see GRIFFIN | 2A

Kyle Troutman/ktroutman@thedailycitizen.com

Angie Stevens decorates a Christmas tree in her home in preparation for Harding University’s Christmas Tour of Homes on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased at each home. All proceeds from the tour will go toward need-based scholarships for Harding University students.

30th annual event to raise money for need-based student scholarships BY KYLE TROUTMAN During the holidays, many people open their homes to friends and family. But for six Searcy couples, friends and family also includes the Searcy community. The Associated Women for Harding is hosting the 30th annual Christmas Tour of Homes today from 1-4 p.m., with six west Searcy homes to be featured this year. Liz Howell, Harding University’s assistant to the president for alumni and parent relations, has been involved with the event for 14 years and said the tour offers people a chance to get in the holiday spirit. “Everyone on the tour loves Christmas

Christmas Tour of Homes

ktroutman@thedailycitizen.com

What: Six homes will be featured in the 30th annual Christmas Tour of Homes. When: Sunday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $20 per ticket

INDEX NATION & STATE, 2A OPINIONS, 4A LIFESTYLES, 5A CALENDAR/OBITUARIES, 6A SPORTS, 1B CLASSIFIEDS, 5B

“

True happiness involves the full use of one’s power and talents. JOHN W. GARDNER 20th Century American novelist

”

Page 2A • Saturday, December 1, 2012

The Daily Citizen

FROM PAGE ONE

Contributed photo

Beebe man wins $11,000 Duston Curtsinger of Beebe holds a check for $11,000 he won on a $10 Money Maker ticket through the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery. The ticket was purchased at the Miraj Flash Market in McRae.

VILLAGE CONTINUED FROM 1A

day songs. The Garner Train Depot gift shop will be open with a variety of “old time Christmas gifts,” Heard said. Some of the items on

sale will include handmade toys, books, cookbooks, and other handmade gifts. Toy trains will also be on display. The school house will feature a Christmas tree decorated with ornaments made by Girl

Scouts from across White County. For more information about Pioneer Village or to get involved with the Christmas Open House, people can call the White County Historical Society at 501-278-5010.

“As you get closer to a trial this all starts to take shape. It’s amazing what happens on the courthouse steps.”

she had placed the receptacle there to collect scanned non-winning tickets. Duncan was brought into the case after the trial in May, where she testified that she was the original purchaser of the ticket. Dejani was the owner of the store, under his company Summer One L.L.C. In May, Judge Thomas Hughes awarded the winnings to Duncan, as he said she did not give up her right to the winnings when she gave up the ticket. The defense appealed the outcome of the trial and asked for a jury trial, which was set to start on Thursday. Hughes had recused himself and the trial would have been heard by White County Circuit Court Third Division Judge Craig Hannah.

Molly M. Fleming/mfleming@thedailycitizen.com

Barkin Barn proceeds benefit Humane Society Larry Douglas of Pangburn browses through a container of door handles while shopping at The Barkin Barn on Friday morning. The store has all of its Christmas items on sale for 50 percent off. The store is open today from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is located at 108 N. Gum St. in Searcy. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Searcy.

GRIFFIN CONTINUED FROM 1A

Griffin said the appointment means he won't run for governor or challenge Democratic Sen. Mark Pryor in 2014, races he said he had considered. "I was going to give some serious thought to other options, but this is such an honor and it is exactly the subject matter I'm interested in, that I think holds the key to a lot of our fiscal problems," Griffin said. The panel is the oldest committee in Congress and also deals with legislation related to trade agreements, the national debt, federal revenues and pro-

grams such as Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security. Only eight Arkansas residents have served on the committee since it was founded in 1789. The last Arkansas congressman to serve on the panel was Beryl Anthony, a Democrat who represented south Arkansas' 4th District. The late Congressman Wilbur Mills, who represented Arkansas' 2nd District, chaired the panel for 18 years and remains the longest serving chairman of the committee. The announcement leaves Republicans uncertain on who will challenge Pryor, who announced

earlier this year that he would seek a third term. Others seen as potential challengers include Rep. Steve Womack and incoming Rep. Tom Cotton. Both have said they're focused on their jobs. Several Republicans are considering running for governor with Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe barred by term limits from running again. The potential candidates include former Congressman Asa Hutchinson, who said he'll likely announce a decision in January. Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, a Democrat, is the only announced gubernatorial candidate so far.

volved in a conflict with his party over Democratic state Senate candidate Tiffany Rogers’ name being truncated on early voting machines in White County as “State Representative Tiffany Rog...” The commission placed signs on printed paper inside each voting machine, saying that Rogers’ name was truncated with her full name printed. On the second day of early voting, the state Democratic Party issued a press release titled “Elections in White County Compromised Due to Election Commission Mistake,” which Collier publicly rebuked. “I was very disappointed in the way the state party treated someone who has worked very dili-

gently on their behalf,” he said. “They never picked up the phone and called me and told me that release was about to hit the press.” Collier insisted the release had nothing to do with his resignation, though he is considering leaving the Democratic Party. “I haven’t decided that yet,” he said. Each county party gets to appoint an election commissioner and the party that holds a majority of state constitutional

LAWSUIT CONTINUED FROM 1A

He said discussion of a settlement started on Thursday evening, and then as both parties gathered in the court room on Friday morning for jury selection, the settlement became a reality. “As you get closer to a trial this all starts to take shape,” Simpson said. “It’s amazing what happens on the courthouse steps.” He said that Friday was the first time that both parties and their clients had been in the same room since the trial in May. The dispute over the lottery ticket started in the summer of 2011, when Jones said she found the ticket in a trash receptacle at the Super One Stop in Beebe. She said she found the ticket in a pile of tickets that

Jimmy Simpson Defense attorney were not winners. She had picked up the pile to take them home and enter them in the computer for Points for Prizes, a program through the Arkansas Lottery Commission that allows people to submit codes on their ticket for points to be used for prizes. According to Petriches, the tickets, including the one that Jones had found, belonged to her because

COLLIER CONTINUED FROM 1A

campaign on behalf of a particular candidate and can’t be involved in the campaign process, and I’m looking forward to being active in that process moving forward,” he said. “[Running for office] is something that I’ll never rule out, but that is not the reason I’m doing this.” Collier served as chairman of the White County Democratic Club in 2007 and 2008, and was chairman of the Democratic Central Committee from 2009 to 2011. He resigned last year and was replaced by former Searcy Mayor Belinda LaForce. The position is now held by David Griffith. Collier was recently in-

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offices also gets to select an at-large member. Gov. Mike Beebe and Attorney General Dustin McDaniel are Democrats, and Secretary of State Mark Martin is a Republican. Collier’s resignation is effective January, meaning the local Democratic Party will need to appoint his replacement at that time. Collier said he is grateful to have served on the commission, the other members of which are Republican Cindy Barker and Democrat Jason

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Brooks. “I am thankful that I had the opportunity to serve,” he said. “[Barker and Brooks] are two of the most helpful people I’ve been around. I can’t say enough about the service [Election Coordinator] Leslie Bellamy provides to the citizens of White County. We have a wonderful election team and I will miss working with all of them.” Barker said she was saddened to learn Collier is stepping down. “With Winston, neither

of us looked at it as Republican or Democrat,” she said. “We wanted it to be fair. We tease each other, but there was never any issue about our parties. I wish all people could work together as good as our commission. Winston was an asset and we are going to miss him.” An attorney, Collier was a partner in what is now the Simpson & Simpson law firm in Searcy before taking a job as general council at Augusta-based ARcare earlier this year.

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