Local shoppers Dr. Mark Bryant ends 2017 score big contest with perfect entry 1B 1C ADVANCE-MONTICELLONIAN
75¢ WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2017 SERVING DREW COUNTY SINCE 1870
IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
All photos by Ashley Foreman/Advance-Monticellonian ANNUAL TRADITION Tuesday night’s 24th Monticello-Drew County Chamber of Commerce Carols of Christmas Parade drew old and young alike. The winning fl oats were: Business—Citizens Bank, fi rst place; Union Bank, second place; State Farm, Chris Bryant, third place; Schools—Monticello Elementary School, fi rst place; All About the Kids, second place; Drew Central Art Club, third place; and Church and Nonprofi t—Rockin’ L Arena, fi rst place; Holmes Chapel Presbyterian Church, second place; Girl Scouts, third place. Santa Claus even made his fi rst offi cial appearance in town.
Increase in vehicle break-ins is concern to county, city City updates mobile home BY ASHLEY FOREMAN time Tuesday morning, a shotgun was taken. the doors will deter those who might just be • Stash before, not after, parking: Get in ordinances [email protected] Anyone with information on this theft or waiting around for an easy target. the habit of putting shopping bags in the any other criminal acts, Gober said, can con- • Keep it tidy: Almost any worthless per- trunk right when returning to the vehicle, Both Drew County and Monticello have tact the sheriff’s department. The report will sonal item that’s visible from the outside— rather than after parking at the next place. BY ASHLEY FOREMAN seen an increase in vehicle break-ins, ac- be anonymous. even an empty shopping bag—could be seen According to National Insurance Crime Bu- [email protected] cording to Drew County Sheriff Mark Gober. Each year, more than $1.255 billion in per- as a valuable or a carrier of valuables. If peo- reau spokesman Frank Scafi di, thieves some- Other counties and cities are also reporting sonal items and accessories are stolen from ple have wagons or SUVs that leaves the car- times linger in busy parking lots looking for In a brief meeting Tuesday the same increase in this type of crime. vehicles in about 1.85 million thefts; and for go area on display, drivers should consider valuables being moved out of sight. Don’t night, members of the Mon- These criminals are looking for anything every theft, experts estimate, there are sever- getting a cover. Most of these vehicles can be display to them what you have. ticello City Council voted to of value from loose change to electronics— al break-ins and attempted break-ins, accord- fi tted with inexpensive retractable covers to • Completely close windows and sunroofs: update mobile home ordi- nances No. 480 and 785. and for a large part, fi rearms. ing to AOL Autos on cnn.com. With these help keep shopping bags or other belongings It’s not just because thieves might reach in The newly amended or- Gober said DCSO would urge citizens to common-sense habits and preventative mea- out of sight. through the gap and open locks with a coat dinance, that took affect not leave fi rearms unsecured and to always sures, drivers can greatly reduce the chances • Conceal all the evidence: Don’t leave hanger. Open windows will disable the pres- immediately, states that no lock their vehicle. The Monticello Police their vehicles will become targets: any bait out for thieves; stow electronics and sure sensor in some car alarms, leaving the mobile home shall be moved Department readily concurred with that sug- • Lock doors: While this piece of advice accessories well out of sight—or better yet, vehicle more vulnerable to break-in and po- gestion. should be a no-brainer, up to a quarter of take it along. The evidence alone might be into the city limits of Monti- tentially giving thieves more time before the cello unless a permit of com- Also, citizens are urged to report any suspi- vehicle thefts are from unlocked cars, ac- enough to pique the interest of thieves so alarm sounds. cious activity promptly to law enforcement. cording to some law enforcement agencies. hide that, too—including power plugs, tell- pliance has been obtained • Get an alarm: If drivers don’t have an from the city of Monticello. In the theft that happened on Old Arkansas Even if drivers are running into the store for tale iPod adapters or nav-system windshield alarm system, they should get one. The noise COUNCIL Highway 13 near the Lake Monticello access a Coke, that’s too long to leave the vehicle’s suction-cup mounts. To be doubly sure, even BREAK-INS See Page 6A between 6 p.m. Monday evening and some- contents open for the taking. Simply locking put the cigarette lighter back in place. See Page 6A County under Local extension agent gets national awards MORE GROWTH IN MONTICELLO immediate BY HAROLD COGGINS and will discuss the past, present her national attention. burn ban [email protected] and future of the society at a meet- When a person initially thinks ing sponsored the local AAS Tuni- about 4-H, they often envision Drew County Judge Rob- Monticello’s Hope Bragg, a 4-H can Chapter. State Fairs, kids showing livestock, or sewing and cooking. Today 4-H ert Akin ordered an immedi- agent and Staff Chair with the Uni- That gathering will take place at is so much more, with three main ate burn ban yesterday after- versity of Arkansas Division of Ag- 6:30 p.m. next Tuesday at the Uni- riculture’s Cooperative Extension versity of Arkansas at Monticello’s initiative areas—healthy living, noon because of dry condi- citizenship and STEM—being em- tions in the area. in Desha County, has been recog- School of Forestry and Natural Re- nized for the archeological pro- sources conference room. Bragg, phasized across the nation. All persons in Drew The National 4-H Council, part- County are directed to re- grams she has implemented across who holds her bachelor’s degree the state with the Denise Miller Na- in Forestry and master’s degrees in nering with the National Associ- frain from outdoor burning ation of Extension 4-H Agents, tional 4-H Innovator Award. That both Forestry and Elementary Ed- until further notice. promotes the award that recognizes ucation, was elevated to the AAS “The cooperation of ev- annual honor is bestowed upon the innovations of 4-H educators in eryone in Drew County is a program that meets the highest position she currently holds in Oc- honor of the timeless contributions urgently needed to prevent standard of quality and innovation. tober. of former council associate Denise destruction and injury by Bragg received her accolades She has combined her two dis- Miller. As a memorial tribute to Special to the Advance outdoor fi res during this dan- at the recent National Association ciplines by instituting a program Miller, her family and friends have FOR THE SWEET TOOTH Monticello-Drew County Chamber of Commerce gerous period,” Akin said of Extension 4-H Agents’ annual that utilizing archeology to teach created the Innovator Award to Executive Director Glenda Nichols (second from left) joins new business upon issuing the order. meeting in Indianapolis. She also science, technology, engineering continue the work which she was owner Irlanda Romero (holding scissors) as the chamber offi cially wel- is the incoming president of the and math (STEM) skills with 4-H BRAGG comed Cakeland Bakery to Monticello with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last Arkansas Archeological Society— in Desha County. That’s what drew See Page 6A Wednesday. Cakeland Bakery is located at 1011 U.S. Highway 425 South.
INDEX Opinion ...... 4A Calendar ...... 2A Religion ...... 3B HOLIDAY SUBSCRIPTION SPECIAL Classifi eds ...... 5C Sports ...... 1C Obituaries ...... 8A Tax list ...... 1D Ends December 31st! • See details on Page 8C To start a subscription to The Advance-Monticellonian call (870) OUR 146TH YEAR Reg. $39 367-5325, Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Offer good through NUMBER 48 • 34 PAGES Zip codes beginning in 716 $17.00 Newsstand December 31, 2017. In order to comply with U.S. Postal regulations Price for periodical mail, all mail subscriptions must be paid in advance by check, money order or credit card. Newspapers are mailed out every Reg. $45 All other zip codes $40.00 Subscription Price Wednesday afternoon (unless holidays force an adjustment). 2A | Wednesday, November 29, 2017 NEWS Advance-Monticellonian | mymonticellonews.net | 870-367-5325 COMMUNITY CALENDAR GOING ON NOW Burn ban now in effect Drew County Judge Robert Akin has placed Drew County under a burn ban Educator of the Week due to dry conditions. All residents are to refrain from outdoor burning until further notice. Editor’s note: The Ad- Drew County Museum open on select Saturdays vance-Monticellonian is high- DR. ROBERT “RED HAWK” MOORE The Drew County Museum will be open the fi rst and third Saturday of each lighting one educator each week month. The hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For special events, contact to call attention to their accom- Connie Mullis at 870-367-2431 or Tommy Gray at 870-367-2401. plishments inside—or outside— Support for local schools the classroom. The schools fea- Show support for local schools by purchasing a school mascot yard sign tured (on a rotating basis) are for only $20. All three (University of Arkansas at Monticello Boll Weevils, those in the Monticello and Drew Drew Central Pirates and Monticello Billies) may be purchased for $50. Call Central school districts, and the the Monticello/Drew County Chamber of Commerce offi ce at 870-367-6741 University of Arkansas at Monti- or stop by the chamber offi ce at 335 East Gaines Street. cello. Send nominations to Ashley MEDC now taking applications for SNAP Grant Foreman at reporter@monticel- The Monticello Economic Development Commission is now accepting lonews.net or call 870-367-5325. applications for the Special Needs Assistance Program grant. To qualify, Any educator is eligible, and all applicants must be 55 years or older and live in Drew County. To apply, call will be given careful consider- 870-367-4410 to make an appointment with City Property Inspection Man- ation. ager Brian Rodgers. You must provide two forms of identifi cation, current proof of income and a copy of the deed to the property that is applying for BY ASHLEY FOREMAN assistance. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 [email protected] Worship service When one wanders onto the The Great I Am Temple Church will host a night of prophetic word an campus of the University of Ar- worship service at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3. The guest speaker will be Tom kansas at Monticello, it is worth Spencer III. Pastor Jerome and Co-pastor Clarissa Pace invite the public to the second story walk up in the attend. Memorial Classroom Building NOW THROUGH MONDAY, DECEMBER 11 to meet Dr. Robert “Red Hawk” Moore. Hope Place food drive Moore has been a faculty mem- Majors Forest & Lawn, 314 East Gaines Avenue, is sponsoring a food drive ber at UAM for the past 20 years. for the Hope Place Monticello offi ce. Interested participants may bring six He teaches Comp I and II and re- non-perishable food items or $5 to the store and receive a chance to win a medial English classes. Husqvarna 125B handheld blower. The blower will be given away at 4 p.m. “I demand to teach the remedi- on Monday, Dec. 11. al and intro classes,” Moore stat- THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30 ed. “That is where you can really Greece Education First Tour parent meeting make a difference in a students Parents and students in grades 9-11 interested in traveling on the Grecian education.” Oddyessy Tour must attend the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30 Aside from molding the minds at the Drew Central High School Library. The nine day tour will be in June of aspiring Boll Weevils, Moore 2019. Please RSVP to Eva Arrington by texting your child’s name, your is a highly accomplished poet and name and number of people attending to 870-224-6545. writer. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 Since he was 18, Moore has Photo courtesy of Dr. Robert Moore been an avid poet, and is careful Cookies with Santa RED HAWK is an accomplish poet and published author. His latest book is titled, “Return to the Mother, A to only write what is necessary. Lover’s Handbook.” The Drew Central Parent Teacher Organization will host Cookies with Santa “Words have power to hurt and from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1 at the Drew Central Multipurpose gym. For to heal,” Moore said. “A poet has Ever since, Moore has vowed to “It was on the Buffalo River He has been married to the more information, contact Sheila Gardner at [email protected] to be very spare with his words live life to its fullest and use his that I asked for comfort and guid- light of his life, Chandrika Taylor SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 and write only what is necessary.” heart as his guide. ance,” Moore added. “The sun for 23 years. The couple met in Memorial dinner For the last 56 years, Moore “I found that relationships was rising behind a mountain and Oregon but they have called Ar- has lived by the same cardinal The Drew Park Hall of Fame will host a dinner in honor of Laron Tucker, Rev. were my path,” Moore noted. “I I could see two red hawks in the kansas home for many years. Sam Wherry, and Thomas Gathen and in memory of Shay Gillespie and rule, tell the truth about yourself, learned to surrender my heart to distance. I knew at that moment “I want people to know that Hank Thompson at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2 at the G-Plex SuberCenter no matter how bad it makes you love and allow my heart to show that was my Earth name.” it is the heart that is the source located 211 South Boyd Street in Monticello. Tickets can be purchased by look. me the right way.” Moore has two daughters, Lit- of great writing, not the mind,” contacting Joyce Jackson, Sharon Haynes and Deborah Daniels. His life was drastically changed Many know this quirky profes- tle Wind and Raindrop and three Moore added. “When the mind Deck the Diamond fundraiser after a painful divorce that sepa- sor not by Dr. Moore but as his grandsons who affectionately re- serves and the heart rules, great- The Miracle League of Southeast Arkansas will hold its annual fundraiser rated him from his two daughters. Earth name, Red Hawk. fer to him as Grando. ness happens.” at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Gibson University Center. Tickets are $25 per person or $300 for an eight person table. There will be a silent and live auction. For more information or tickets, contact Karen Connelley at 870-723-4921. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5 Drew County Bow Hunters Club meeting All former and prospective members of Drew County Bowhunters Club, Inc are invited to attend a meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5 at Drew County Farm Bureau located at 656 Barkada Road in Monticello. The purpose of the meeting is to elect new offi cers and discuss the forward movement or dissolving of the club. For more information, contact 870-723-0867. Music Club meeting The Monticello Music Club will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5 at the First United Methodist Church in Monticel- lo. The public is invited to listen to seasonal music performed by local musi- cians, Kathy Lyon, Bobby Brown, the Monticello High School Madrigals under the direction of Bennie Vincent and the handbell choir of FUMC. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 Christmas concert The Choral Music Department of Monticello School will present their annual Christmas concert at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7 at the Monticello Middle School auditorium. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8 AND SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Christmas Cookie Tour The second annual Christmas Cookie Tour will take place in Monticello on Friday, Dec. 8 and Saturday, Dec. 9. Tickets to the event are available at the Chamber of Commerce. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 Santa Train The 12th annual Santa Train event will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 in the mini park on South Main Street. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present. There will be games, rides gifts and free hot dogs and hot chocolate. Delta Sigma Theta Beautillion/Cotillion The Southeast Arkansas Alumnae of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority will host its fourth annual Beautillion/Cotillion at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 at the Univer- sity of Arkansas at Monticello Gibson Center. Winners of the contest will be awarded a scholarship. For more information, contact Dr. Belinda Wells at 870-723-3436. MONDAY, DECEMBER 11 Drew Central Facilities Master Plan public hearing The Drew Central School District will host a public hearing to discuss the facilities master plan at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 11 in the Drew Central Board Room. All patrons of the district are invited to attend. For more infor- mation, contact Billy Williams at 870-367-5369. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22 Santa visit The Prairie Grove Baptist Church will host Santa Claus at 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 22 in the fellowship haul of the church. There will be refreshments and a movie after the Santa visit. ONGOING • The Kiwanis of Monticello will have their regular meetings from 11 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at Two Brothers Restaurant, located on the downtown square. Anyone interested in joining is welcome to attend. • The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for abused and neglect children of the 10th Judicial District seeks volunteer advocates and board members. For more information, contact 870-367-9449. • The Drew County Relay for Life Committee will have its regular month- ly meetings at 5:30 p.m. on the fi rst Monday of each month at Pauline Missionary Baptist Church, 909 North Hyatt Street in Monticello. Anyone interested in serving is welcome to attend. • The Drew Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will meet at 10 a.m. on the fi rst Tuesday of each month in Conference Room A in the Allied Health Building. • Drew Memorial Hospital’s Cancer Support Group will meet every second Monday of each month at noon in Conference Room A. Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and family members are invited to attend. • The Monticello Winners Group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 8 p.m. every Monday, Thursday and Saturday at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 836 North Hyatt Street in Monticello. Monday meetings are closed but Thursday and Saturday are open to the public. The group also holds open meetings at noon every Tuesday and Friday at the church. For more information, contact 870-723-6568. • The Transitions Grief Support Group of Arkansas Hospice holds meetings at noon on the second Tuesday of every month at the Southeast Arkansas Regional Library-Monticello branch, 114 West Jeff erson Avenue. For more information, contact Reba Gaines at 501-748-3393. • Celebrate Recovery of Monticello meets at 5:30 p.m. every Friday at the Monticello Christian Church, 233 South Dillard Street (on the corner of Jackson and Dillard streets). It is free and open to the public. Registration is not necessary to participate. You do not need to be a member of Monticello Christian Church to attend. Celebrate Recovery is a support group aimed at helping people with emotional struggles, relational issues, addictions or any thoughts and behaviors that interfere with a joyful life. Meetings begin with fellowship and coff ee. Large-group meetings begin at 6 p.m. with biblically based teachings and music. At 7 p.m., sharing groups are off ered. These small groups are divided into men and women and provide a safe place to See CALENDAR Page 8A 870-367-5325 | mymonticellonews.net | Advance-Monticellonian NEWS Wednesday, November 29, 2017 | 3A
Arkansas Farm Bureau UAM BRIEFS ASBTDC to host pair of seminars holding 83rd convention How to operate a home-based business and how to boost sales are the topics of a Special to the Advance will serve as keynote speaker for the pair of free seminars to be hosted by the Women’s Leadership luncheon that Arkansas Small Business and Technology LITTLE ROCK—Today through is planned as part of the convention. Development Center at the University of Friday, farmers, ranchers and agri- Additionally, the conference will in- Arkansas at Monticello. cultural leaders from across the state clude a trade show that features ven- The first seminar, “Operating a Home- will come together for Arkansas dors of farm services, equipment and Based Business,” will be held from 9-11 Farm Bureau’s 83rd annual conven- supplies. a.m. Thursday in the Star City Civic Cen- tion, set for the Statehouse Conven- The convention’s theme, “Leading ter. The second seminar, “Boost Your tion Center in Little Rock. Across Generations,” will be rein- Sales,” will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Gov. Asa Hutchinson, author forced by Shaw, author of “Sticking on Dec. 7 in the House Room of the John Haydn Shaw, humorist Patrick Hen- Points: How to Get 4 Generations F. Gibson University Center on the UAM ry and AFB President Randy Veach Working Together in the 12 Places campus. headline the speakers for the conven- They Come Apart.” Shaw will dis- To register for either seminar, contact tion. The event is expected to attract cuss generational differences, simi- Stephanie Harton, ASBTDC director, at more than 1,000 farmers and ranch- larities and how to fi nd the common 870-460-1808 or register online at http:// ers, and will include workshops on bonds that can lead to organizational asbtdc.org/training/monticello-events/. state and federal tax reform, forestry success. Debate team competes in Louisiana certifi cation, labor and food safety is- Farm Bureau’s annual business sues, and legislative initiatives along session, where voting delegates de- Six members of the University of Ar- with discussions that cover manage- fi ne the organization’s policy posi- kansas at Monticello debate team brought ment and profi tability for livestock tions on items of importance to Farm home awards from the Festival of Lights and row crop producers. Bureau members, will culminate the Invitational Debate Tournament hosted re- Attorney General Leslie Rutledge event. cently by Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La. Blake Adkins of Vilonia, Brian Hunt- er Cook of Sheridan, Natalie Craig of Sherwood, McKenzie McClain of Mon- Lending a local hand ticello, Grace Nash of Mount Holley and Abby Rounsaville of Mabelvale received individual honors at the competition that Toy drive Canned food drive brought together debate students from 14 colleges and universities from Arkansas, UAM Media Services photo The Junior Auxiliary and Com- The Drew Central Elementary Louisiana, Texas, Tennessee, Missouri and NATIONAL WINNER Richard Sample of Winslow, a graduate student in the UAM School of For- munity Communications are spon- School will host a canned food drive Colorado. estry and Natural Resources, recently won fi rst prize for his research poster presented at the soring a local toy drive this Satur- from Monday, Dec. 4 to Wednesday, Adkins, a computer information systems Society of American Foresters national convention in Albuquerque, N.M. day. Dec. 15. major, was the ninth-place speaker in the Stop by the local Cablevision of- Interested people are encouraged tournament’s professional division. Cook, in Southern Oaks,” presented at the Society kaela Farmer, a junior from Randolph Center, fi ce and take a picture of a toy on to drop of non-perishable food items a criminal justice major, was the third- of American Foresters national convention in Vt.; Kaitlyn Barnes, a freshman from Warren; the tree or bring in a toy of your and canned goods at the DCE main place speaker in the junior varsity division Albuquerque, N.M. Tyler Raines, a member of the Quiz Bowl choice to donate to a child in need. offi ce. while Craig, a communications major, was The research presented in the poster illus- team and a junior from Warren; Jeffrey Han- Please bring an unwrapped toy Food donated will be distributed to the seventh-place junior varsity speaker. trates the timing and extent of nutrient cycling son, a freshman from Fouke; Brison Darling, McClain, an education major, reached the in oak tree species in Arkansas forests, provid- to the Cablevision off between 10 those in need in Drew County. a freshman from Morrilton; Cole Shaver, a quarterfinals in junior varsity debate while ing various ecosystem services such as habitat junior from Monticello; and Richard Sample, a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. Nash, an English and modern languages and food for waterfowl and other wildlife as graduate student from Winslow and a member major, reached the round of 16. Roun- well as wood. Nutrient cycling is important of the Quiz Bowl team. saville, an education major, was the first- for tree growth in survival. Current art students meet graduates place speaker in the junior varsity division Understanding the basic biology will help Night Owls EHC plans for Christmas and reached the round of 16 in debate. foresters understand how nutrient cycling is Six art majors at the University of Arkansas Others competing or participating were affected by environmental stresses trees in at Monticello attended the Arkansas Art Edu- cators Fall Conference held recently in North 16. Frito chili pies will be served. Kyle Hargis, a communications major Arkansas typically experience, such as fl ood- Special to the Advance Little Rock, where they were able to meet with All members attending are en- from Warren; Lou Dylan Hargis, an agri- ing, drought and overcrowding by compet- UAM graduates working in art education. couraged to bring a fi nger food or culture major from Warren; Gabriel Mc- itors, and will lead to better forest manage- President Judy Murphy called As part of the experience, students toured dessert. Please bring a dirty santa Dorman, a communications major from ment. Sample’s poster, co-authored with his the NIght Owls November meet- the Clinton Presidential Library, the Arkansas gift. Sheridan; Samhitsi Aumagamamanaia, advisor, Dr. Benjamin Babst, assistant profes- ing to order at 7:08 p.m. after en- Arts Center and the Historic Arkansas Muse- Our Club needs to decide what a communications major from Roswell, sor of forest resources, was judged to be the joying refreshing snacks served um. to do with our money for Christ- N.M.; Adeline Bowman, a political sci- top poster out of 135 posters presented at the by Hostess Margaret Reddick. Current students in attendance Lacey Jacks mas and suggestions made were ence major from Berthoud, Colo.; Jordan convention. The members sang “Mr. Sand- of Monticello; Deavon Smith-Collins of Fay- man” with Reddick reading Trea- Options, Hope Place, Samaritan, Lakin, an art major from Cabot; Tracey Quiz Bowl team reaches fi nal four Lawson, an education major from Tillar; etteville; Danielle West of England; Cari Mor- sures of Every Day Life” as the and the Presbyterian Home. Members of the Forestry Club and student ris of Ore City, Texas; Erika Barnett, a current inspiration and the members re- Several members were to check and Keeton Orrell, a political science ma- jor from Monticello. chapter of the Society of American Foresters student from Kingsland; and Cheryl Atkins of citing the club prayer Secretary with the organizations and see at the University of Arkansas at Monticello Crossett. Sue Anderson asked each member what they can use most or where Schools represented in the competition were UAM, Bossier Parish Community reached the fi nal four in the National SAF Educators who enjoyed the conference and to name a low-calorie party food could the money go to help. Jones Quiz Bowl competition held recently in Albu- a reunion of sorts were Nancy Abernathy, a with seven members answering thought the club could pay Gwyn College, Colorado Christian University, Drury University, East Texas Baptist, Lee querque, N.M. The Quiz Bowl was part of the 1979 graduate from McGehee; Cheryl Moring roll call. Clemons dues. Anderson second- national meeting of the Society of American (BA 1992) of New Edinburg; Lynn Smith (BA Anderson then read the minutes ed the motion and it passed. College, Louisiana State, LSU-Shreve- port, Louisiana Tech, Middle Tennessee Foresters and featured 32 forestry and natural 1978) of Little Rock; Lindsay Harper (BA which were approved and Mary Bullock let us know we need to resources teams from across the nation. 2003) of Monticello; Blair Ray (BA 2002) of Ann Jones gave the treasurers re- help at the Senior Citizens Center State, Northwestern State, Stephen F. Aus- tin, Southern Methodist, Central Arkansas UAM defeated Oregon State, Green River Little Rock; Patricia Singh (BA 1992) of Mc- port. from 8:30 to noon Friday, Dec. 8, College and LSU before falling to Mississippi Gehee; Jeffery Trotter (BA 2010) of Dumas; Murphy and Carolyn Bullock to help children shop. Anderson, and the University of Tennessee. Sample fi rst in national competition State in the semifi nals. UAM and Humboldt Christy Rowell (BA 2016) of Warren; Sarah attended the District Meeting Murphy, Maria Daniels, Regina State fi nished tied for third. Porter (BA 2017) and a current MAT student in Stuttgartm where members Dunn and Jones agreed to help Richard Sample of Winslow, a graduate UAM students attending the conference, from Crossett; Katie Meyer (BA 2013, MAT were honored for 25 years plus and were reminded to wear the student in the School of Forestry and Natu- including those on the Quiz Bowl team, were 2014) from Monticello; and Roger Darren in EHC. Both ladies received EHC shirt. ral Resources at the University of Arkansas Caleb Wilson, Quiz Bowl captain and a junior High (BA 2004) of Star City. pins for 39 years of member- The clubs next meeting will be at Monticello, was awarded fi rst prize for his from Elwood Neb.; Brody Nosal, a member if UAM Art Professor Tom Richard accom- ship. Shonda Harris spoke at the our Christmas pot luck at 5:30, poster, “Nitrogen Resorption Timeline in Re- the Quiz Bowl team and a junior from Sher- panied the six current students to North Little meeting on disaster prepared- Monday, Dec. 11 at Murphy’s. lation to Protein and Chlorophyll Degradation wood; Greg Craig, a junior from Mena; Mi- Rock. ness and Laura Hendricks, an There will be an ornament ex- Associate Professor of Family change. and Consumer Economics for The members then read the club the U of A System of Agriculture creed with Anderson reading the also spoke. Helpful Hint and the Thought of The County EHC Christmas the Month. party will be at the Farm Bureau The meeting adjourned to do a JOHNNY APPLESEED offi ce at noon on Saturday, Dec. Christmas craft. Lot #2, Southern Oaks, Monticello, AR ANNUAL MOVIE DAY!!! Join us at the Johnny Appleseed Members %HWKHÀUVWWRRZQWKLVEHDXWLIXOQHZHUEXLOWKRPHLQ6RXWKHUQ2DNV6XEGLYLVLRQ7KHUHDUHEHGURRPVIXOO Malco Cinema to EDWKVDQGDQRIÀFH&RQYHQLHQWO\ORFDWHGWRKRVSLWDOGRFWRURIÀFHVVFKRROVDQG8$0.LWFKHQKDVHOHFWULFDQG JDVKRRNXSVIRU\RXUUDQJH*UDQLWHFRXQWHUWRSVLQNLWFKHQDQGEDWKURRPV2YHUVL]HGGRXEOHJDUDJHZLWKVWRUDJH Only URRPDQGDWWLFDFFHVV&RYHUHGGHFNLQEDFN&RYHQDQWVDSSO\3ODWSURYLGHGXSRQUHTXHVW watch Disney’s “COCO” NTICEL O LO Please RSVP MREALTY at 460-6400 Virginia Ward, Principal Broker .\OH7KD[WRQ$JHQW 2IÀFH+Z\6 by Nov. 30 ZZZPRQWLFHOORUHDOW\SURSHUWLHVFRP
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Popcorn! FUN! Drink! “Uniting Our Family With Yours.” FUN! BELLEVIEW ESTATES Prizes! REHABILITATION AND HEALTHCARE CONNECT WITH UNION BANK 2/':$55(15'0217,&(//2$5 ID[ ADVANCE-MONTICELLONIAN | mymonticellonews.net Wednesday, November 29, 2017 4A CONTACT US Tom White, Publisher Harold Coggins, Editor OPINION 870-367-5325 870-367-5325 [email protected] [email protected] Adoptive families Christmas season is upon us are badly needed in Arkansas now Whatever your beliefs, enjoy this time with family and friends Black Friday and Small Business OUR VIEW fi nally fermented and ready for drinking. Saturday aside, Monticello offi cially In the early years of Christianity, Eas- This week’s topics are ones that are near to my This editorial refl ects the views of the heart. My more than 10 years of employment work- kicked off the Christmas season Tuesday ter was the main holiday; the birth of Je- ing with the Department of Human Services gave Advance-Monticellonian’s editorial board. me personal experience with the needs of foster and night with the annual Monticello-Drew Other opinions on this page may not sus was not celebrated. In the fourth cen- adoptive children in our state, and an appreciation County Chamber of Commerce Down- refl ect this view. tury, church offi cials decided to institute for the work of The CALL of Arkansas. town Christmas parade. Like many the birth of Jesus as a holiday. Unfortu- Currently, there are 375 children in Arkansas ed light and birth in the darkest days of holidays, the celebration of December 25 nately, the Bible does not mention a date waiting to fi nd a permanent family. November is winter. Many peoples rejoiced during National Adoption Month, an initiative designed to has ancient roots—and not all of them for His birth (a fact Puritans later pointed bring attention to the need for permanent families the winter solstice, when the worst of the align with the reason many in Southeast out in order to deny the legitimacy of the for children in the foster care system. winter was behind them and they could For a child, there is nothing more important than Arkansas enjoy Christmas today. celebration). Although some evidence having a parent to protect, love and care for them. In fact, according to history.com, look forward to longer days and extend- suggests that his birth may have occurred We know there are families in Arkansas capable of ed hours of sunlight. providing the stability, safety and commitment they Christmas wasn’t even declared a legal in the spring (why would shepherds be deserve. holiday until 1870. Some Puritans who The end of December was a perfect herding in the middle of winter?), Pope Several of the members of the Arkansas House time for celebration in most areas of know fi rsthand the joys adoption can bring. Six rep- celebrated the holiday were fi ned; from Julius I chose December 25. resentatives currently serving have adopted children. 1659 to 1681, Christmas was actually Europe. At that time of year, most cattle Whatever your beliefs are, we encour- To successfully adopt a child who is registered outlawed in Boston. were slaughtered so they would not have age all to enjoy this time of year. Family, through the Department of Human Services, a parent must have the ability to do all of the following: The middle of winter has long been to be fed during the winter. For many, it friends and those with whom we are just • Make a commitment, a time of celebration around the world. was the only time of year when they had acquainted deserve our best every day of • Deal with rejections, • Provide stability, Centuries before the arrival of the man a supply of fresh meat. In addition, most the year. We would like to wish all our • Laugh, called Jesus, early Europeans celebrat- wine and beer made during the year was readers a very “Merry Christmas.” • Provide safety, • Accept differences, • Set realistic expectations, • Look at progress in small steps, State colleges • Handle stress and change, • Learn new parenting skills, • Reach out for help/support and spend much • Be able to advocate for the child. Qualifi ed adoptive homes are needed for children of all nationalities, sibling groups and children with on athletics special needs to include children with emotional, mental or medical needs. Many of the children currently LITTLE ROCK—State-support- available for adoption were re- ed universities in Arkansas spent moved from their birth family or $176 million on athletics last year, legal parent due to neglect, physi- a 6.3 percent increase over the cal, emotional or sexual abuse. previous year. Two-year colleges An adoption cannot take place spent $600,000. unless the court has terminated About 72 percent of the income LEANNE the birth parent or legal parent’s that was spent on sports came from ticket sales, license fees and BURCH rights. The adoption process can take more than six months sources of athletic department ARKANSAS to complete. It includes a home income. Almost $26 million, or HOUSE REPORT study and background check. 13 percent, of the money spent on Financial assistance may be athletics came from fees charged available in form of monthly support for the child, to students. one-time reimbursement for expenses related to Universities may spend a certain initial adoption expenses and a federal tax credit for proportion of their state funding the year in which the adoption takes place. on athletics. Last year they spent I invite you to visit www.projectzero.org, which $12.6 million in state aid on features a collection of beautiful photographs of athletics. waiting children and teens, taken by professional A state law enacted in 1989 re- photographers from every corner of our state. quires colleges Adopting one child may not change the world. But and universi- for that one child, the world will change. If you are ties to submit interested in adoption or would like more infor- annual reports mation, contact me or visit www.humanservices. on athletic arkansas.gov. expenditure One organization that seeks to impact local Holiday season reminds of growth to the Higher children through fostering and adoption in a Education faith-based community is The CALL (Children of Department. EDDIE The institutions Arkansas Loved for a Lifetime). This organization With sweet potato-casserole season The records of the Arkansas Depart- their sweet potato dynasty will continue partners with the Arkansas Department of Human CHEATHAM must use uni- upon us, this is a good time to consider ment of Agriculture show that 13 farmers that they have named one line of their form account- Services. Drew County has an active program, and the signifi cant economic impact of the in eight counties grew sweet potatoes potatoes “Fifth Generation.” The Fifth ARKANSAS Ashley County is an “emerging county” according to SENATE REPORT ing procedures sweet potato on Arkansas. on 5,000 acres in 2017. Arkansas’ sweet Generation logo includes a photograph of and standard the website, thecallinarkansas.org. I saw sweet potato production in per- potato crop ranks sixth in the nation. their daughters when the girls were much The CALL in Drew County is hosting walkers defi nitions son in August when I visited Ridgeview Sweet potato farming is a labor-inten- younger. of what amounts to spending on and runners to participate in its second annual Run Farm near Wynne, sive crop, which makes it an expensive This has been a good season for Rid- Run Rudolph 5K at 8 a.m. on Dec. 2 at Monticello’s athletics, so that comparisons are where Terris Mat- crop. Sweet potatoes cost about $4,000 geview. The harvest came in more than valid. McCloy City Park. There will be a Best Christmas thews is the fourth an acre to produce compared to about a week earlier than usual, thanks to an Costume (individual and group), biggest group/team The report on athletic spending generation of his $600 an acre to grow cotton. early spring and the right amount of rain. overall runner, and age-division and overall walker in 2016-17 was presented to the family to grow sweet The value of Arkansas’s 2017 crop is Terris has been eating sweet potatoes awards. Proceeds will be used to provide The CALL state Higher Education Coordinat- potatoes. coming in at about $26 million, accord- all of his 48 years, and he still eats them in Drew County with resources to educate, equip ing Board at its October meeting. and encourage the Christian community to provide Rick Wimberley, ing to Wes Ward, director of the Arkan- three and four times a week. Sometimes, The University of Arkansas at a future and a hope for children in foster care. To the extension agent sas Department of Agriculture. he will dig one out of the ground, dust it Fayetteville has, by far, the largest register and/or to make a donation, go to https://run- ASA in Cross County, says Terris and Kim Matthews have sweet off and eat it raw. Terris prefers his sweet athletic program in the state. The the Matthewses grow potatoes to thank not only for their potatoes with butter and nothing else, Razorbacks’ total spending on signup.com/Race/AR/Monticello/TheCallofDrew- HUTCHINSON CoRunRunRudolph5k. more sweet potatoes livelihood but for their marriage. They but he enjoys the casseroles that include athletics last year was more than Many of us probably prefer fi shing to running. GOVERNOR’S at their Cross County met 18 years ago when Kim was a food brown sugar, pecans, cinnamon, marsh- $106 million. However, due to REPORT Several Lake Grampus fi sherman have reached out farm than any other merchandiser for grocery stores in Jack- mallows or the other extra ingredients. the popularity of athletic events, to me about a concern regarding the overgrowth of farmer in Arkansas. son, Tenn., and contacted the Matthews- So whether you eat your sweet the university brings in so much water hyacinth there. The problem is so big and Cross County planted 2,800 acres in es’ operation. Now, in addition to raising potatoes straight from the earth, baked revenue from ticket sales, royalties has gone on so long that many think the Arkansas sweet potatoes, more than any other hundreds of acres of sweet potatoes, they with butter only, as sweet-potato fries or and licensing fees that it does not Game and Fish Commission has forgotten about the county. The Matthewses cultivated about are raising their two daughters, Jaylie, fancied up for the holidays, this is one use any state aid to supplement its lake. That is not the case. The AGFC diverted a sig- 2,500 of those acres. Other top sweet 16, and Tacie, 14, in the sweet potato home-grown food that is easy to fi nd, sports budget. nifi cant sum of money from other budget categories potato counties include Phillips, Chicot patch. easy to prepare and gives you the satis- The only other institution that at the end of last fi scal year to do additional spraying and St. Francis. Terris and Kim are so confi dent that faction of supporting Arkansas farmers. did not transfer from its general at Grampus, but the tens of thousands of dollars education budget for athletics was spent on herbicide treatments there in 2017 have the University of Arkansas at Fort made little impact. Smith. Its athletic budget was $3.5 The main problem is that the only completely ef- We need to honor our veterans every day million. fective herbicide cannot be used within one mile of a Arkansas State University at cotton fi eld during April 15-Sept. 15, or when the air Jonesboro spent $18.2 million on temperature exceeds 90 degrees, according to Plant Honoring our veterans is one of the ability and Whistleblower Protection was a priority for us because these men athletics, the University of Central Board regulations. So AGFC has used a less effec- greatest privileges I have as a U.S. Act. This law strengthens accountability and women deserve better. To correct Arkansas at Conway spent $12.5 tive, more expensive herbicide, but admits there still Senator. Earlier this month, President at the Department of Veterans Affairs by this injustice, we introduced legislation million and the University of should have been better results. They have promised Trump proclaimed November “National allowing the Department to dismiss bad earlier this year as well as in the last Arkansas at Little Rock spent $9.2 million. they will continue to evaluate options this winter Veterans and Military Families Month.” employees while protecting those who Congress. I’m pleased it was included in Salaries represent a large pro- while planning for spring spraying. The overgrowth As we recognize our expose wrongdoing. the comprehensive GI Reform bill that portion of total spending on ath- veterans and honor We have also enhanced post-9/11 BURCH was signed into law this summer. letics. All Arkansas institutions of See Page 5A GI Bill benefi ts to increase educational the sacrifi ce and While we’ve made improvements, higher education spent more than heroism of those who opportunities. I’m proud to have played there is still more that needs to be done $62 million last year on salaries ADVANCE-MONTICELLONIAN answered the call to a role in crafting this law along with my including the expansion of VA services in their athletic departments. That serve our nation in colleague, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR). for female veterans. I encourage my col- was 35 percent of the total amount uniform, we must This bipartisan legislation is a great leagues to support the Deborah Sampson spent on athletics. Serving Drew County since 1870 recommit ourselves example of how we work across the aisle Act to address these concerns, and I urge The Razorback athletic de- to fi ghting on their to get things done. For several years, JOHN VA Secretary Shulkin to implement re- partment spent $30.1 million on TOM WHITE ...... Publisher behalf. we championed fi xing an oversight that forms written in the bill that don’t require salaries. ASU athletics spent $4.4 BOOZMAN As a member of the prevented combat-injured members of congressional action. million on salaries. UCA and HAROLD COGGINS ...... Editor U.S. SENATE Senate Veterans’ Af- the National Guard and Reserve from In the coming days, the Senate VA UALR each spent $2.8 million on REPORT fairs Committee, I am receiving the same GI Bill benefi ts as Committee will consider bipartisan legis- athletic department salaries. ASHLEY FOREMAN ...... Staff Writer committed to honor- active duty military members. lation to consolidate and improve access The second largest spending Published each Wednesday by: ing the promise made Wounded and injured service mem- to community care—a must needed category for university athletic to our veterans. We’ve made tremendous bers were being unfairly penalized DREW COUNTY NEWSPAPERS, INC. update to the Choice Program, created departments was scholarships for progress during this Congress. In June, from accruing educational benefi ts they BOOZMAN CHEATHAM 314 N. Main St., Monticello, Arkansas 71655 President Trump signed the VA Account- rightly earned while in recovery. This See Page 5A See Page 5A (USPS-007-560) Periodical postage paid at Monticello, AR. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to: P.O. Box 486, Monticello, AR 71657. SUBSCRIPTION RATES: $34.00 per HOW TO WRITE US year in zip codes beginning with 716; $45.00 per year else- where. The Advance-Monticellonian welcomes letters to the editor. BY MAIL BY EMAIL [email protected] To contact us, call (870) 367-5325 or When submitting a letter, please include the writer’s name, address and Advance-Monticellonian send an email to [email protected] phone number. The phone number is for verifi cation purposes only. We P.O. Box 486 BY FAX reserve the right to edit letters or to not publish certain letters. Monticello, AR 71567 870-367-6612 870-367-5325 | mymonticellonews.net | Advance-Monticellonian NEWS/OPINION Wednesday, November 29, 2017 | 5A
LOCAL YOUNGSTERS FARE WELL IN DANCE COMPETITIONS for. BURCH Whether you are running or fi shing or enjoying the holiday Continued from Page 4A parades and shopping this week, I hope you stay safe and also look is one good reason to hope for a out for others on the roads and very cold winter to help kill some lakes. of the plants. In this season of thanksgiv- The AGFC reports it is spend- ing, I am especially grateful for ing more money spraying weeds the opportunity to serve as your on lakes Wallace, Grampus and Representative. If I may be of Enterprise than all other lakes in assistance, please call me at 870- the state combined. It’s not a mat- 460-0773 or email me at leanne. ter of ignoring the problem. The [email protected]. You AGFC is just not having a lot of can also fi nd me on Facebook @ success combating these weeds. I BurchforAR and on my website at have assurances that AGFC will leanneburch.com. continue to seek ways to improve I look forward to hearing from until it gets the results we all hope you.
million. Rentals and maintenance CHEATHAM of facilities cost $7 million. Equipment and uniforms for Ra- Continued from Page 4A zorback players cost $3.6 million. Medical expenses and medical players. The statewide total was almost $31 million. insurance cost the athletic program The Fayetteville campus report- $1.6 million. Photos courtesy of Allison Pace ed that $9.3 million went for ath- Ticket sales to Razorback BUSY TIME Members of the Monti- letic scholarships. ASU reported games brought in $40.7 million in cello Dance Academy show off their $5.5 million, UCA $4 million and revenue. Another $16 million came trophies and other awards during UALR $2.5 million. from the NCAA and the Southeast- recent competitions. Top: The local Other signifi cant expenses of the ern Conference, which distributes dance academy won 37 awards, 18 Razorback athletic program were revenue from television networks overall placements and two nation- game guarantees to universities to its members. Broadcast rights al titles at the Starpower National whose teams play at Fayetteville. for television, radio and Internet Talent Competition this past sum- That item cost the program $3.6 streaming brought in $30.1 million. mer in Branson, Mo. MDA took 37 million last year. Debt service cost Royalties and licensing, from fi rms routines to this competition—one the athletic program $11.4 million. paying for the right to use the routine scoring a Five-Star Elite (the Team travel cost $9 million. Fringe Razorback logo and from sales of highest possible adjudication score benefi ts for personnel cost $6.9 souvenirs, brought in $14 million. only given out in the Advanced lev- el), 16 routines scoring fi ve stars, 19 routines 4.75 stars and one routine 4.5 stars. Twenty-three rou- Earlier this year I hosted listening tines placed fi rst in their categories. BOOZMAN sessions with Arkansas veterans to obtain their input on the strengths Plus, the dance academy had one Continued from Page 4A routine invited to perform their rou- and weaknesses of the program as we continue to expand access tine again in the Battle of the Stars by the Veterans Access, Choice to adequate health care options fi nals, where only fi ve routines out and Accountability Act. That law of all of the 12-14-year-old age in- for veterans. I am committed to termediate groups were chosen. was passed by Congress in 2014 ensuring our veterans are getting Right: Several members of the to expand access to community the very best care so hearing input dance academy competed at the health care for veterans. We knew directly from veterans was tremen- Motion Dance Force Competition then that this was just the fi rst step. dously helpful. in El Dorado earlier this month and We’ve made incremental improve- This country made a promise to kept the winning routines going. Six ments to the program since then, our veterans that we must live up routines earned Dynamic Platinum but more must be done. to and I’m proud to be a champi- status, the highest award given out The VA estimates that one third on for them to ensure we follow in the competition. of enrolled veterans live in rural through with our commitment. areas. We must improve how we Working together, we can fi nd are meeting their needs, especially solutions that deliver the results Saline River Stream Team, assisted by UAM students, helps with cleanup how we deliver treatment and care. they expect and earned.
Special to the Advance water mussels that were trapped in Booth, Halley Koenig, Marly For more information on the MONTICELLO BARN SALES low-water areas along the shore of Naron, Gale Lee, Kendall Wells team and/or the Saline River, The Saline River Stream Team the river were moved to more fa- and Madison Kinley. Koenig is contact Bacon at 345 Crestwood, No. 260 recenty conducted the 18th vorable habitat with better chances currently serving as the President Monticello, 71655 or via email at CHRISTMAS SPECIAL! annual Trash and Litter Campaign of survival of the low-fl ow condi- of the UAM Biology Club. [email protected]. on the Saline River above and be- tions in the Saline River that occur low the U.S. Highway 278 Bridge, in August to November. $25 Gift Card with Each Purchase! assisted by eight volunteers from According to Ed Bacon, Saline the Unicersity of Arkansas at Mon- River Stream Team No. 260 Co- Where Friends Become Family 5HQWWR2ZQ)UHHGHOLYHU\DQGVHWXSZLWKLQPLOHV ticello Biology Club. ordinator, trash and litter have de- &RQWDFW'HQHWWD-RKQVRQ+RXUV0)6DW The Arkansas Stream Team creased in the past fi ve years. The +Z\60RQWLFHOOR Program is co-sponsored by the reduction of trash and litter is large- 870-723-9847 &KHFN Arkansas Game and Fish Commis- ly due to the efforts of the stream &DVK ZZZGHUNVHQEXLOGLQJVFRP sion, Arkansas Natural Heritage team and other volunteers that as- Commission, Arkansas Depart- sist in the removal each year and ment of Parks and Tourism, Arkan- increased awareness of the citizens sas Department of Environmental in the region of the importance in Quality, Arkansas Soil and Water protecting the environmental quali- Conservation Commission, U.S. ty of the Saline River. Department of Agriculture Natural The Saline River is one of the Resources Conservation Service, few rivers in Arkansas that does USDA Forest Service, U.S. Geo- not have a large impoundment in logical Survey and numerous other the watershed. agencies. Members of the UAM Biology Two large bags of trash and oth- Club that assisted the Saline River er items were removed from the Stream Team in 2017 were Conner Saline River. More than 500 fresh- Callaway, Logan Pearson, Dustin 9EARS 3ERVING 9OUR &AMILY