Stories from Friday, October 28, 2011

Three Rivers Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Marked Tree will hold a Fall Festival from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27. There will be a live petting zoo, games and refreshments. Three Rivers will host a Halloween Trick or Treat from 7 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31, in the dining room. The monthly Alzheimer's Support Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1. The guest speaker will be State Representative Butch Wilkins. The public is invited to attend all of these events.

During the Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce meeting, it was announced that Paint the Town Orange activities raised just over $1,600 for the city. The funds raised came from sales from Paint the Town Orange T-shirts, ads, yard signs and Boston butt sales for tailgating. Overall the event was deemed a great success, with 90 Boston butts and 100 t-shirts sold. Mauria Morgan reported the Paint the Town Orange Picnic and Bake Sale, held on Monday, raised $1,600 for the Bread of Life Food Pantry. The council discussed the possibility of buying banners to hang on the light poles in front of the courthouse that will support the Hornets. It was suggested the banners be hung to support the football and basketball teams during their homecomings. Also discussed at the meeting was the upcoming election for the new Chamber of Commerce directors. An Election Committee was formed, and members will be responsible for making the ballots, handing out and collecting the ballots, and counting the votes. First, nominating ballots will be distributed to Chamber members, with three members nominated per ballot. The nominating ballots must be received in the Chamber office before noon Nov. 10, and the top seven will be placed on a second ballot. This will be mailed by Nov. 15 and must be received by Nov. 25. A president and vice-president will be elected by the hold over directors of the existing board and the newly elected directors, meeting in a joint session, at the next board meeting after the election date. The Chamber of Commerce also discussed painting the light poles in front of the courthouse. Jim Poole gave an estimate of $1,660 to have them painted, but also noted there will have to be some electrical work done to weatherproof some wires. The board also announced Mauria Morgan as the Grand Marshal for the upcoming Christmas parade in December.

The East Poinsett County (EPC) Art Club enjoyed entertaining the Terrapin Derby crowd with their art profession's educational themes of Carlo's Cake Boss, Trick My Truck and Project Runway float on Saturday, Oct. 1, in the parade. Several EPC Art Club students were in character while riding on the float. The Project Runway side had Olivia Isleman who was the club's model (Art II student who plans to attend college for art and pursue a career in some art field) and Hillary Hale, who was the fashion designer (plans to attend art college in Memphis and become either a fashion or home designer). The art students threw Dum-Dum suckers out to the crowd to go with their "Don't Be A Dum-Dum, Get An Education!" theme.The decorations for the float were created in the classroom, along with working after school. Chase Langley (Art I student) helped with glittering the Project Runway sign. The EPC Art Club had a fun time auctioning off the "Sassy Seats" they had created in the art room by turning old chairs into works of art. The face painting booth was lined up for hours. The Art Club learned there is a huge need for full face painting. Several rub-on tattoos were sold along with some baked goods. Several hundred of dollars were raised to be used to purchase supplies for the art room. After the auction was over, there are three "Sassy Seats" done by the Art III group which are back up for a second auction. We have a beautiful Japanese influence chair painted in actual Gold Leaf by Chasnee Grant (11th grader), a gorgeous Spongebob chair made with an actual giant sponge designed by Emily Mayo (11th grade) and an adorable Razorback Hogs chair created by Paige Collins (11th grade). The chairs are up for auction to the highest bidder. (Please note: the highest bidder is responsible to pay the bid amount to EPC Art Club.) Those interested may go by the EPC High School inside the front lobby area and place a bid on the paper slip. Bids should be lpaced in a jar located next to the chair. Those who are unable to go by the school may call and place a bid on the art teacher's (Melinda Burcham) voice mail at 870-475-2331, ext. 1227. Callers should describe the chair they are bidding on and leave their name, phone number and bid amount. Ms. Burcham will check the voice mail and record the bids daily. The highest bid will be posted on the bulletin board behind the chairs every few days. The bids will be taken until the end of the school day Tuesday, Nov. 1. Ms. Burcham will contact the winners of the chairs. Winners will have three days to pay for the chair to Ms. Burcham at the high school. All proceeds will be used to purchase supplies for the art room.

The Lepanto City Council heard from city engineer Jerome Alford with Bond Engineering Tuesday night regarding the water system. Alford originally gave an estimate of $1.5 million to replace the city's corroding galvanized water pipes with plastic and put in a filter. However, he brought samples of water to show the council which caused him to revise his estimate. The water directly from well was clear with only a slight tinge while the tap water was cloudy. Because the water is clear before going into the pipe system, he said a filter is not needed, which would take a half million dollars off the estimate. Alford said that, though the water is cloudy, it is continually tested by the Health Department and is safe to drink. His estimate for replacing the galvanized pipes with plastic now is $1 million. He suggested the city apply for a grant and loan from either the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission or the Farmers Home Administration Rural Development. Alford said if the city moves forward on this, officials will receive a list of conditions after applying for the money. At that point, he said, the city can decide whether or not to commit. Alford estimated the project would take about 12 months to complete. The council decided to move forward on the project, recognizing there will have to be a rate increase of some kind in the future. In other business, Mayor Steve Jernigan said he is still interviewing candidates for the Parks Commission and noted he will be ready to present his candidates to the council at the next meeting. The council received one bid to repair the roofs at city hall, the courtroom and the police department. Council members voted to reject the bid until they can get more bids for comparison. The council also heard from David Tyler with the fire department who asked the council to consider either naming the ball park or the fire department after former fire chief Damon Tyler in recognition of everything he did while fire chief. Mayor Jernigan said there were several items asking to honor people that need to come before the council and noted the ball park is named after the Mosley family because they donated the land. No action was taken. The council also adopted the yearly tax millage resolution for the rate of 1.7 mills for the city and 0.4 mills for the firemen relief fund. The council also discussed which area to take money from to set up a budget for a dog catcher. Mayor Jernigan said $2,500 to $3,000 will be needed to finish out the year and $10,000 to $12,000 will be needed per year. Several ideas were discussed, such as holding a fundraiser or adding $1 to the mosquito spraying fee for animal control. No action was taken.

The Marked Tree Board of Education began a program this week to recognize a teacher at the start of each school board meeting. The first teacher to be recognized was agriculture teacher Chad Stoddard, who spoke about some of the things the agri program is doing. Stoddard said the agri program wrote a grant for iPads for the students to use and noted they will be getting a new table saw with a special brake that automatically stops it if it nicks a finger. He also talked about an endorsement called Career Preparedness which allows for an upper level class that teaches performance skills for the workplace. The board also heard from Kim Wilkins with Elbow 2 Elbow, a grant-funded program which provides instructional coaches to work with teachers. Wilkins said that with the coaching plan, teachers' skill and application goes up 90 percent. E2E worked with the elementary school last year and this year will work with the high school. The board voted on officers for the year and elected Lee Whitfield as president, Mike Dabney as vice president, and Josh Gallion as secretary. The board also designated Whitfield as chief board dispersing officer and Annesa Thompson as ex-officio financial secretary. During the financial report, Superintendent Thompson said that revenues are still down but noted expenses also are down and that the district is $8,000 ahead of where it was this time last year. The board voted to renew the Skills Tutor Program, formerly JEDI, for one more year. In this program, students go to the computer lab once a week and work on basic skills in math and literacy. The board also approved a food service contract with Bright Beginnings, identical to the one they had with the ABC program, to provide 18 meals a day. Bright Beginnings will pick up at $3 a meal for a total of $54 a day. Marked Tree School District also held its annual report to the public Monday. High school and elementary principals gave data presentations on Benchmarks scores and discussed what they are doing to improve scores. The superintendent reported on the budget and projects the school will undertake and said the largest project will be the installation of a more sophisticated fire alarm system.

Medicare Prescription Drug coverage open enrollment period will begin Oct. 15. This is a month earlier than in previous years. Each year there are some changes to the drug plans which participants will need to know. "Medicare Part D: Know Your Drug Plan" will look at the continuing changes due to healthcare reform including premium changes, deductibles, etc. The presentation will be held Thursday, Oct. 13, with two program times, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Both programs will be held at the Center on Aging-Northeast, 303 E. Matthews, in Jonesboro, just in time for the Medicare Part D open enrollment period. Cynthia Abel, MA, BSE, outreach specialist with the Center on Aging-Northeast, will be the presenter. There will be 30 stand alone drug plans in 2012, a decrease of 4 plans from 2011. This means that your current plan may not be offered next year. "If your plan will not be offered next year, then you will need to find a new one that will work for you," said Abel. "The open enrollment period is usually the only time during the year you can change to another plan." This program will look at the new special enrollment periods offered and including issues such as surviving the "donut hole." After the program, participants may make appointments to look at or change their drug plan during the open enrollment period. This is the seventh year that the Center on Aging-Northeast has assisted Medicare recipients in enrollment for Medicare Part D. To register or for more information, call 207-7595 or 1-800-745-0557.

Marked Tree native Don Canada, now of Orlando, Fla., will be inducted this weekend into the East Mississippi Community College Sports Hall of Fame. The recognition of Canada a and 10 other Sports Hall of Fame inductees will be part of the school's annual homecoming festivities Oct. 21-22 in Scooba. A two-sport standout (football and basketball) at Marked Tree High School, Canada was recruited to East Mississippi Junior College by Hall of Fame football coach Bob "Bull" Sullivan. Following two injury-filled seasons in Scooba, Canada joined the United States Navy as an aviation cadet in 1955 to begin an illustrious 30-year military career. Capt. Canada retired from the Navy in 1985 following his three-year stint as the Inspector General of the Navy Recruiting Command. Among the highlights of his decorated three decades of loyal service to our country include receiving the Vietnam Service Medal and Air Medal in 1965, Navy Achievement Medal in 1967, Meritorious Service Medal in 1973, and the Legion of Merit honor awarded in 1982 and 1985. Upon settling in Orlando following his retirement from the Navy, Canada spent 10 years as a real estate broker/investor before permanently retiring in 1994. EMCC's 2011 Sports Hall of Fame inductees will be honored on the Scooba campus with a Friday night reception and banquet. The 11-member class is also scheduled to be recognized Saturday afternoon at midfield prior to the Lions' 2 p.m. homecoming football contest against Mississippi Delta CC. Saturday's MACJC North Division gridiron battle will take place at EMCC's New Sullivan-Windham Field. The 2011 class of the EMCC Sports Hall of Fame also includes: Jay Boland (Lake City, Fla./Enterprise, Ala.); Terry Brown (Columbus); Gary Gibson (Collinsville); Jimmy Kelly (Foley, Ala.); Jimmy Kibe (Columbus); Charlie Morgan (Starkville); Bill Pearson (Gainesville, Mo./Columbus); Charlie Studdard (Columbus); Lyle Underwood (Elberta, Ala.), and the late Billy Westmoreland (Celina, Tenn.). In addition, East Mississippi Community College will also honor the school's 2011 Alumnus of the Year recipient, Langston Rogers, and Distinguished Service Award winner, Rick Garner. The public is invited to attend a Saturday luncheon at 11:30 a.m. honoring Rogers and Garner at EMCC's Keyes T. Currie Coliseum on the Scooba campus. The award recipients are also slated to be recognized during halftime activities of Saturday afternoon's EMCC-MDCC homecoming football contest. For additional information on these upcoming homecoming events on the Scooba campus, please contact the EMCC Development Foundation Office at 662-476-5063 or visit the school's website at www.eastms.edu.

Crossroads Coalition will present a free leadership training program on economic and community development from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Arkansas State University Newport Technical Center, located at 33500 Hwy. 63 East in Marked Tree. Lunch will be provided, but RSVP is requested by Oct. 24. Throughout October, the Crossroads Coalition will begin to implement one of the most critical objectives identified in the Regional Strategic Plan, the launch of the Regional Leadership Training Program: Cultivating Economic and Community Development in Eastern Arkansas. This program is made possible by a grant from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and developed and delivered in partnership with the Institute for Economic Advancement at UALR. The first stage of the program will be a series of free one-day training sessions, one at each Crossroads county, designed to provide an overview of the economic and community development process as well as county-specific data and analyses to support and strengthen the efforts of current city and county leadership and engage future leaders across the Crossroads region, including: * County Judges and Mayors * Economic Development Professionals and Chamber Directors * Chamber and Economic Development Boards * Quorum Courts and City Councils * Business and Civic Leadership * Others relevant to the economic development process, including up and coming, next generation leaders. Program topics include: * Introduction to Economic Development * Understanding the Local Product * Thinking Strategically * Leadership and Organizational Development * Community Development * Understanding the Business Development Process and Marketing Your Community * Workforce Assessment and Economic Development * Finding Your Niche * Discuss and Q&A Each participant will receive a tool kit packed full of information, data, directories, resources and other tools to aid in strengthening local and regional economic development efforts and promoting progress in eastern Arkansas. The Crossroads Coalition is a strong and growing regional partnership working to cultivate progress and prosperity in eastern Arkansas. The Crossroads region includes Crittenden, Cross, Lee, Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett, St. Francis and Woodruff counties. The work of the coalition is focused in the four primary areas of economic development, education and workforce development, community development and leadership development. For more information about the Crossroads Coalition, please visit our website or contact our office. Contact Jeff Bookout or Geraldine Overbey at the ASU-N Technical Center in Marked Tree at 870-358-8610 to RSVP for the upcoming meeting.

Jamie Lynn Cunningham was arrested Oct. 2 and charged with residential burglary and felony theft of property. After investigation of the burglary, police determined that Cunningham was a possible suspect. She resides at the home next to the burglary location. Based on the investigation, it was learned that Cunningham broke into the residence and stole some of the occupant's property. Cunningham's court date is Nov. 30 and her bond is at $50,000. Dale M. Riley was arrested Oct. 5 and charged with commercial burglary, criminal attempt of theft of property and criminal trespassing. An employee of Columbia Forrest Products called police to report that an individual was riding away on one of the company's forklifts. Upon the officer's arrival, the employee stated he caught the individual on the lift and identified him as Dale Riley. Riley then fled the scene. Police soon found Riley after he almost struck one of the officers as he walked down the street. Riley's court date is scheduled for Nov. 30 and his bond is set at $10,000. Tyler Joe Milligan was arrested Oct. 5 and charged with forgery and theft of property. Based on an offense report taken in reference to two checks being taken and written on the victim's account, police interviewed Milligan about his involvement. Milligan admitted taking the checks and writing them at two locations in Trumann. Milligan's court date is Nov. 30. Kevin D. Jones of Trumann was arrested Oct. 10 and charged with possession of a controlled substance. A Trumann officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation and Jones was a passenger in the vehicle. The patrolman was aware of an active parole warrant for Jones and, after confirming the warrant, Jones was arrested and transported to the Trumann jail. During the booking process, Jones emptied his pockets and police found a hidden compartment inside a large pocket lighter. Inside the compartment they found a small plastic baggie with a powdery substance Jones confessed was methamphetamine. Jones' court date is Nov. 30 and his bond is set at $35,000.

Tyronza's Vietnam Traveling Wall Committee, a part of the Stars and Stripes Committee, is sponsoring a memorial tree to help raise funds for bringing "The Wall that Heals" Vietnam Traveling Wall to Tyronza's annual Stars and Stripes Festival in May 2012. The wall is the same one displayed in Marked Tree in 2008. Donations may be made in memory of or in honor of a loved one. The tree will be on display in front of Tyronza City Hall from the first week of December until the first week of January. On Dec. 2, after the City of Tyronza Christmas parade, there will be Christmas caroling and the names on the memorial tree will be read. A lighting ceremony also will take place. Single names in memory of or in honor of are $10. Mr. and Mrs. names in memory of or in honor of are $12. Family names in memory of or in honor of are $15. The deadline for having a name or names on display by Dec. 2 will be Nov. 28, however, memorials will be accepted through Dec. 18. Forms for the names are available at the Tyronza City Hall and EPC Tyronza Elementary School (see Tabatha).

State Farm Insurance has provided a $10,000 grant to officials at Arkansas State University to be added to the insurer's endowed scholarship fund in the ASU College of Business. State Farm's spokesman for Arkansas, Gary Stephenson of North Little Rock said, "The purpose of the fund is to provide monies for a scholarship each year to an undergraduate student in the ASU School of Business. As a financial services provider, we believe that asolid foundation in business principles and financial literacy is a key factor for a productive future for an individual, a community, a state and a nation." The first recipient is Anderson Childress of Batesville. The presentation was made Saturday, Sept. 24, at the State Farm tailgating area next to ASU Stadium at the Red Wolves' football game with Central Arkansas. Dozens of State Farm associates and family members greeted ASU System President Dr. Charles Welch; interim Chancellor Dr. Dan Howard; Dr. Len Frey, dean of the College of Business, and ASU Foundation President Steve Owens among others at the presentation. The tailgating event was organized by ASU alumnus and State Farm agent, Skip Highfill, of Jonesboro. According to State Farm, dozens of its associates, working both in and outside of Arkansas, are Arkansas State alumni. One such alumnus, Steve Short, (B.A.'69; M.S.'71), is recently retired State Farm Vice President of Operations in State Farm's five-state Central Zone. Stephenson ('76), states that ASU, as a development and education entity, has been a very important component of State Farm's Operations, Claims, and Agency programs over the years.

At the monthly Poinsett County Quorum Court meeting, Poinsett County Assessor, Johnny Rye, Jr. spoke about the Property Ratio Report. "We passed the ratio," said Rye. "Everything is in great shape." The Assessment Coordination Department conducted the study for the county for business personal property and other personal property only. Both of the property classifications have been found in compliance of the state's legal standards. The assessed value of both personal and business personal is $54,080,355 countywide, with an estimated market value of $270,069,144 and a total county ratio of 20.02. The Poinsett County Assessor's office also plans to add a computer usage policy to its employee handbook. Some of the policy guides prohibit the use of pornographic materials, downloading or distributing material not related to the employee's job or protected by copyrights, introducing malicious programs to the network or servers, and a no privacy and monitoring clause. Employees who do not follow the rules set by the policy warrant the imposition of disciplinary penalties up to and including termination. Also at the meeting, the council approved Resolution 2011-07, which will allow the Poinsett County Fair to apply for a grant through the GIF County Fair Grant to build 30 x 40 metal building to be used as a poultry and rabbit house. The Poinsett County Fair Association recently was awarded $4,000 to build a 14 x 24 metal building to be used primarily as a beauty pageant room.

Arkansas Senator David Burnett, well known for being the original trial judge for the West Memphis Three case, visited the Women's Progressive Club of Marked Tree as a special guest speaker recently. Burnett spoke about some of his experiences serving in the legislature and his feelings on the West Memphis Three case. Burnett said the legislature on the state level is much less polarized than in Washington, D.C. "We maintain our principles, but we know when to draw the line and benefit people," Burnett said. "I wonder why they can't do that on the national level. I don't vote party lines. I vote for what benefits the people. You see that quite a bit." Burnett represents Senate District 15, and after the reapportionment, that district now covers Poinsett, Mississippi and the Eastern part of Craighead counties. He is also vice chairman of Local Affairs and on the Health Committee. When asked about his feelings regarding the West Memphis Three case, Burnett said if there had been a retrial instead of the three men entering the Alford plea, "I think it would have been a tie, because public opinion has been so manipulated. If they did have a retrial, I think it would have been a mistrial. I didn't see anything in the media about how they had to go before the judge and say the evidence against them is strong enough to convict them, but they don't want to take that chance. Letting them plead guilty but then letting them turn around and say they're not guilty doesn't make sense." Burnett said the state of Arkansas is fortunate to have a balanced budget requirement. "Last year we had a $94 million surplus," he said. "We're one of only five states not in debt. The last legislature cut the budget by almost $40 million. That saved taxpayers money, but that also means there are less funds." He also encouraged people to vote "yes" on renewing GARVEE Bonds, a 1996 bond measure that funds the refitting of the highway. "The bond issue won't raise your taxes one dime," Burnett said. "All you're doing is allowing the state to reinvest this money dedicated to the interstate system." Of working in the legislature, Burnett said, "It's a totally new experience. I'm really enjoying it. I feel I've found my niche. I'm having so much fun because of the variety of issues that come up before the legislature." One example of an amusing bill he talked about was a bill to prohibit the possession of simians as pets. The bill failed after "people came out of the woodwork and made persuasive arguments." Burnett also asked that people contact him if they have children or grandchildren who would like to serve as a Senate page. "I can take quite a few, and it's a real treat." Marked Tree Mayor Wayne Nichols also was on hand to present Senator Burnett with a plaque of appreciation from the Municipal League.

Northeast Arkansas is celebrating Adult Education Week after Gov. Mike Beebe announced the proclamation in early October. The ASU-N Technical Centers in both Trumann and Marked Tree helped raise awareness for the program by having an open house Thursday, Oct. 13. The event brought in Trumann Mayor Sheila Walters and other Chamber members, as well as community members. "A lot of people don't know, but the adult education program is free," said Shirley Kausler, who heads the ASU-N technical centers. "We set up a personal plan for each student and have an open entering and exiting policy. We are here to help local people reach their educational goals." To apply for the program, all that is needed is a social security card and a picture ID. "Some people may use us as a stepping stone for one basic class, like math or reading, to help them progress in their careers." Kausler said. "Others may use us to obtain their GED. Each student is different." ASU-N offers on and off campus classes in adult basic education, general adult education and English as a second language (ESL). The school also offers classes to adults who have already earned their diploma but would like to improve their skills in preparation for the ACT or COMPASS test and college courses. There is no tuition or charge for books for this program. Adult education is targeted for students over the age of 18, but if there are students 16 or 17 who meet certain eligibility guidelines, they may also enroll. The GED test is given free of charge at the campus and is given in regular intervals throughout the year. All students who wish to take the test must complete 60 hours of instruction in preparation and pass the GED practice test. Sites are located in Marked Tree at 33500 Hwy. 63 E. and Trumann at 104 E. Main St. For more information on adult education classes call 870-358-4117 for Marked Tree and Trumann at 870-483-7215.

Sandy Teague spoke to the Marked Tree Rotary Club recently about the business she is opening to provide 24-hour home care. Caring Hearts Home Care Providers will provide non-medical home care, grief counseling and target case management -- which helps with paperwork older people may not understand -- in 11 counties in Northeast Arkansas. Teague said she went to nursing school at ASU and worked with Dr. Vestal Smith until he retired. After that, she got another nursing degree and became a trauma nurse in Memphis. After her father died and her mother became ill with Alzheimer's, Teague moved back to Arkansas to care for her mother and worked for Home Health Care. Taking care of her mother for five years changed Teague's perspective on people. "I want to make sure that every individual I see, I look at them as family," she said. "When you look at them as family, you have better care and service." After retiring from Home Health Care for a few months, Teague decided she wanted to work again and thought about opening her own business in Marked Tree. Her main motivation in providing home care is to help people. "Some of these families have no one except themselves," she said. "Some have children who live out of town or out of state and don't visit. Nurses are the only people they have. We have great people in Marked Tree, but we have people in need in Marked Tree and Poinsett County. I'm not in this to make a profit. I'm in this to give back to someone who gave to me -- my mother." Teague said her faith has been very important in starting this venture. "I'm very involved in church. I start each day with prayer and the Bible, and I'll carry that to the office because God gave that office to me." Teague hopes in the future to open another office in Northwest Arkansas. Each office is allowed to cover a 50 mile radius. "I told my board of directors that we're going to give it our best because we're going to be the best. We'll keep that attitude and keep our sights on what's right." Caring Hearts Home Care Providers is located at 108 Nathan in Marked Tree and can be contacted at 870-358-3344.

There is talk swirling that there could be a new addition to Northeast Arkansas that will have an impact on the hearts and spirits of many. Peggy McCall, executive director of the Miracle League in Arkansas, hopes to build a new Miracle League field near Jonesboro. The Miracle League is a baseball league specifically for children with disabilities. Even the baseball field used is specially made with those disabilities in mind. "Our Miracle League field is made of a recycled tire product in a tile form that is designed to prevent injuries and also accommodate wheelchairs, walkers and other devices to assist in walking that our players use," McCall said. McCall worked with the Rotary 99 Club in Little Rock and KIDSource in 2004, and together they came up with the funds for the $400,000 baseball field there. In fall of 2006, the field was opened and soon McCall began working on expanding into Northwest Arkansas. In 2009, a Springdale field was opened with help from many in McCall's former youth group. With $700,000, two fields and a playground were added to Northwest Arkansas. Last year McCall organized fundraisers to pay for a disability-safe playground for the field in Little Rock. The playground includes swings for wheelchairs and a merry-go-round. McCall's next project is to build a field for Northeast Arkansas. "We did a demographic study for the area and something like the Miracle League could really benefit the Jonesboro area," McCall said. "A large population of children with disabilities would be benefited and we think that is enough to justify the expense of the project." McCall hopes to get the Jonesboro Rotary involved, as well as outlying Rotary Clubs, such as Trumann, Harrisburg and Marked Tree. With the community working together, McCall believes the funding for the project will come. Although McCall will need funds for the project, what she needs most are volunteers. "We can't have this program without buddies," she said. The system works by pairing up a child with disabilities with a volunteer who helps them swing the bat, run around the bases or just cheers them on to home. "Our buddies get so much out of the program," McCall said. "This is something where you will receive the most fulfillment for your time. It's an incredible experience for everyone involved." The Miracle League in Little Rock currently has over 375 players for the spring and fall sessions spread over three leagues. There is a competitive league, an adult league and the buddy league, which has the most participants. The competitive and adult leagues play baseball by the rules, allowing strikeouts, but the buddy league always ends in a tie game, allowing everyone to hit and pass home plate. "The Miracle League is a lot more than just playing baseball," McCall said. "It's a vehicle to experience something great."

Three Rivers Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Marked Tree will hold a Fall Festival from 3 to 6 p.m. today (Thursday, Oct. 27). There will be a live petting zoo, games and refreshments. On Monday, Oct. 31, Three Rivers will host a Halloween Trick or Treat in the dining room from 7 to 8 p.m. The monthly Alzheimer's Support Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1. The guest speaker will be State Representative Butch Wilkins. The public is invited to attend all of these events.

LITTLE ROCK--Heritage Month 2012 will be dedicated to working Arkansans. Organizations all across the state are invited to start planning Heritage Month projects and events that support the theme "Dreams & Determination: Arkansans at Work." Applications for grants will be accepted through Dec. 12, 2011. "Since territorial days, Arkansans have toiled, innovated and persevered to help build and improve our state--simply by going to work," said Cathie Matthews, director of the Department of Arkansas Heritage. "The first jobs found in Arkansas were for trappers and hunters, but today, some of America's wealthiest families call Arkansas home. "Even as we are dealing with tough economic times today, most Arkansans still believe that with hard work, anything seems possible," Matthews continued. "We want to applaud that ethic by honoring those who have made the life we enjoy possible--they are an inspiration to us all." Arkansans are encouraged to plan Heritage Month activities that explore the jobs of the past; how particular crafts or trades left their mark on communities or which jobs were necessary to settle towns and cities. Grants are available from the Department of Arkansas Heritage to help communities develop local events and projects for Heritage Month in May 2012. The grants are designed to help foster awareness and enjoyment of Arkansas heritage and to assist non-profit and community groups in planning and implementing meaningful Arkansas Heritage Month projects. The application packet is available at www.arkansasheritage.com. Guidelines and application forms are also available from the Heritage Month Grant Coordinator, DAH, 1500 Tower Building, 323 Center St., Little Rock, 72201; fax (501) 324-9154 [TDD (501) 324-9811], or by e-mailing randy@arkansasheritage.org. Applications must be received at the Department of Arkansas Heritage by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, December 12, 2011. The Department of Arkansas Heritage sponsors Arkansas Heritage Month each year in May to celebrate a particular aspect of our state's history and culture. Past Heritage Month activities have included art shows, poetry readings, nature walks, research projects and festivals that supported that year's theme. During Arkansas Heritage Month 2012, residents are invited to join with others around the state in presenting the heritage message in new ways and through new venues. Since 1975, the Department of Arkansas Heritage has been committed to the discovery, preservation and presentation of our state's natural and cultural heritage. The department accomplishes its goals through the work of seven agencies: Arkansas Arts Council, Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, Delta Cultural Center in Helena, Historic Arkansas Museum, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center and Old State House Museum.

The staff at Lake Poinsett invites all Boy Scouts who are working to earn a merit badge to take part in a badge workshop to take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5. During this workshop scouts will gain the training needed to acquire a badge. There will be several badge classes to choose from, but class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Each badge will cost $5. For more information or to receive a registration packet contact the park at 870-578-2064.

The East Poinsett County (EPC) boys basketball team is sponsoring a chili supper, Friday, Oct. 28, before the senior high home football game. The event will be in the EPC cafeteria from 5 to 7 p.m. The cost is $5 a plate.

A Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce board of directors meeting will be held from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1, in the Chamber board room at City Hall.

The Western Cherokee Nation of Arkansas and Missouri will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, in the lobby of Black River Coliseum at Poplar Bluff.

Free tutoring is being offered at the Marked Tree Elementary School. "This is a great opportunity to help your child succeed at no cost to you," said a school spokesperson. Those who want more information may contact the Marked Tree Elementary office at 870-358-2214.

A 19-year-old Harrisburg man died Tuesday, Oct. 25, as the result of an accidental shooting at his home, according to the Harrisburg police department. Police received a 911 call Monday just after 5 p.m. about an accident at a residence on West South Street. Officers Robert Wright and Ben Barrett responded. Police Chief Gary Hefner said Brian Kramer was shot when his father, Larry D. Kramer, 49, was unloading a nine millimeter semi-automatic pistol and a round accidentally discharged. The round struck Brian Kramer in the right leg. Attempts were made to airlift the young man, but he was rushed by Medic One ambulance to St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro. He died Tuesday night at St. Bernards while in surgery.

The Trumann Lion's Club will hold its 35th annual barbecue Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Cedar Park Elementary cafeteria. The entire community and surrounding area is welcome to attend the festivities. "We are the oldest club in Trumann," said Joe Walzonia, chairman of the Lion's Club Barbecue. "The Lion's Club is one of the oldest clubs in Arkansas, as we are closing in on our 80th anniversary, and this barbecue is our major fundraiser for the year." The dinner begins at noon Nov. 5 and lasts until 7 p.m. Barbecue, coleslaw, baked beans and bread will be served. "Anyone who has ever been knows it is a lot of food," Walzonia said. "Plenty for one person." Tickets are $6 each and can be purchased before the event or at the door. "We are a charity organization," Walzonia said, "so all of the money that is raised will go to help buy local students glasses and hearing aids. Once our students are taken care of, the rest will go to community members who need either glasses or hearing aids." Members of the Lion's Club and volunteers will begin cooking for the barbecue at Bill Teague's store Friday night. "We'll cook all night and have everything ready for Saturday," Walzonia said. "We are always looking for extra help from the community too." This is Walzonia's third year as the Lion's Club Barbecue chairman and he said it is not only a great social, but also a great way to give back to the community. "It is good for the kids and the community," he said, "and that's what the Lion's Club is all about."

Those who have asked "What can I do to make a difference in the world?" and would like to expand their knowledge of the natural world now have an opportunity to do so. Registration for the new Northeast Arkansas Master Naturalists Chapter is now open. Classes which begin Jan. 28 on topics such as geology, botany, entomology, meteorology, birding and butterflies will be held at Lake Frierson, Lake Charles, Village Creek and Crowley's Ridge State Parks and at Crowley's Ridge Nature Center. After completing the Master Naturalist program, participants will be armed with the knowledge to truly change lives, help the environment and make a difference in the world. This year Master Naturalists have logged nearly 20,000 volunteer hours in Arkansas, working with organizations such as Arkansas State Parks, Audubon Arkansas, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the National Park Service and others. Those who would like a registration form or more information may go to the Master Naturalists website at home.arkansasmasternaturalists.org and click on "How do I join" or contact Arkansas Master Naturalist Dwan Garrison at (870) 688-0961 for more information.

The Poinsett County Historical Society currently is gathering family histories to be compiled in a two volume Poinsett County History Book, which will be published in 2012. This is a chance for community members to send in their family histories and record their heritage for future generations. The books are to include a history of Poinsett County from the early 1800s up through 2012 and will include the history of the communities, businesses, churches, schools and families of Poinsett County. Some historical treasures in the books include the original plans of the Old Bolivar Courthouse, Civil War letters, Swamp Land transactions, mercantile records and old Bible records. The Poinsett County History Society wants to hear history from old-timers and newcomers alike and is asking for people to write and type a family history in 600 words or less and send it, along with a historic or recent photograph, to the Historical Society at: Poinsett County History Book, P.O. Box 504, Harrisburg, AR 72432, ATTN: Ms. Sylvia. Each family history should have the date your family came to Poinsett County and should indicate what state or country your family originated from and your family's vocations before and after settling here. Family histories can include marriages, children, jobs, military experiences, education, organizations participated in, and any interesting stories from childhood. Be sure to write the story in the third person (use he, she and they). Family histories should be submitted on 8 Ω x 11 inch paper, double spaced if possible, with your name, address, and phone number. Also be sure to write your name and address on the back of the photograph sent with each family history and indicate who is in the picture, the date, and include a caption for the picture. The photos will be handled many times, so the Historical Society asks that people send professional copies, no Xeroxes or valuable or irreplaceable photos. Photographs will be returned when the book is completed. Also feel free to send any rare historic photos. The Historical Society will try to print as many of those as they can. The Historical Society also is accepting family histories from sister counties that have helped Poinsett County, including Lawrence, Greene, Jackson, St. Francis, Crittenden, Mississippi and Craighead. The deadline to get family histories and photos in is Nov. 30, 2012. For more information on the books, contact Sylvia Evans at 870-227-1048. "And spread the word," she asks.

Charles Nix, Poinsett County Judge, has gone back to the hospital after an infection set in from his quadruple heart-by-pass surgery on Oct. 11. Nix had his original surgery at NEA BAptist Memorial Hospital in Jonesboro, and after the surgery, was sent home. Nix later fell ill with a high fever, which sent him back to the hospital. Doctors performed surgery on Tuesday, Oct. 25, using a vacuum tube to remove the infection. Fonda Condra, Poinsett County Clerk, said that Nix was moved to the ICU after his surgery and so far is responding well to the treatment.

Trumann School District is having a great year. The hard work of the faculty and administration with the addition of several new highly-qualified staff members is helping the district get off to a terrific start. Everyone is working hard to ensure the best possible learning environment for students. The district has started the year with two new district administrators. Myra Graham assumed the superintendent's role this summer and looks forward to the opportunity to lead the Trumann School District to new heights. The district also gained David Rutledge as their new assistant superintendent. The two new top administrators, Graham and Rutledge, are impressed with the beautiful high school facility. "Seeing students work in such an extraordinary learning environment is very exciting," Graham said. Other facilities projects completed over the summer were the addition of new classroom furniture at Cedar Park Elementary and interior renovations such as new doors, ceilings, and classroom furniture at Trumann Intermediate School. Grades kindergarten through second are implementing the new Common Core State Standards this year and teachers in grades three through eight are working hard toward implementation next year. Teachers and students are excited about the availability of new technology to enhance student learning. "Our goal is to put as much technology in the hands of students as possible," Rutledge said. The district recently upgraded its network to include wireless access and completed a bandwidth expansion project which increased the speed and accessibility of the internet throughout the campuses. "This project is a great step forward for the district because it will help us meet our technology needs in the future and give students the skills and experiences they need to be successful," Graham said.

Effie Dungan, president of the Trumann Schools Alumni Association, spoke at this week's Trumann Rotary Club meeting. The Trumann Schools Alumni Association was started in 1996 by a group of older alumni. Soon they established by-laws and a board. "The Trumann Alumni Association includes all Trumann schools, even McCormick and Central, which were consolidated," Dungan said. There currently are 340 active members in the association. Anyone who has been a former student, teacher or administrator is welcome to join. Yearly dues are $10. "Some of that money goes to mail out our newsletters," Dungan said. "Any extra is put toward our scholarship fund." The Alumni Association gives out $2,000 scholarships to local students. "We used to give $1,000 scholarships, but now we've been able to raise that to $2,000," Dungan said. "Most scholarships end after one year, but students who have won a scholarship with us are allowed to reapply for a $1,000 scholarship the following year." Members also have the option of becoming lifetime members for a flat rate of $500, and do not have to pay yearly dues. The money collected from this goes toward building up the scholarship fund. Local community members also can give a donation to the scholarship fund through a memorial or regular donation. Another activity the Trumann Schools Alumni Association provides is a reunion. "Every other year our board members plan a reunion," Dungan said. "In 2009, there were 345 people who attended our banquet and this year there were 307 who attended the function at First Baptist Church. The reunion always brings a lot of people back to Trumann." Dungan has helped plan eight total reunions and enjoys working on newsletters to send to all of the members. "I've heard a lot of positive feedback from the newsletters," she said, "especially from alumni who live out of town." The Trumann Alumni Association has even made history themselves. Wayne Tims, a former student who currently lives in Indiana, began scanning Trumann annuals with his daughter and uploading them to the computer. "He began with the first yearbook in 1943 and each year he adds the most current," Dungan said. Trumann schools uploaded all of the scanned annuals to their website, making them the first school in the United States to have a complete annual history online. "This year Wayne made a DVD of all of the annuals from 1943 to 2011," Dungan said. A DVD of the school's history can be bought from the Alumni Association for $25. To join the Trumann Schools Alumni Association, send your name, address and the year you graduated to: P.O. Box 784, Trumann, AR 72472.

Red Ribbon Week is one of the oldest and largest drug prevention movements in the nation and its impact is greatly felt in local schools. This week Cedar Park Elementary in Trumann helped celebrate the launch of Red Ribbon Week by having a balloon release on Monday. "The balloon release was to show our students the support we have for Red Ribbon Week and that we stand to be a drug-free school," said Natalie Teague, one of the two Cedar Park counselors. Teague has been working with Shawn Renshaw, the other Cedar Park counselor, to make Red Ribbon Week memorable for the students. "We've talked to the students about the history of Red Ribbon Week, how to make good choices and every day they have a different lesson," Teague said. "The lessons focus on how to live a healthy lifestyle, how to be successful in school and the benefits of remaining drug-free." According to the Red Ribbon Week website, the history began with Enrique "Kiki" Camerena, who served in the Marines, was a police officer and later joined the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. "The DEA sent Camarena to work undercover in Mexico investigating a major drug cartel believed to include officers in the Mexican army, police and government. On Feb. 7, 1985, the 37-year-old Camarena left his office to meet his wife for lunch. Five men appeared at the agent's side and shoved him in a car. One month later, Camarena's body was found in a shallow grave. He had been tortured to death. Within weeks of his death in March of 1985, Camarena's Congressman, Duncan Hunter, and high school friend Henry Lozano, launched Camarena Clubs in Imperial Valley, Calif., Camarena's home. Hundreds of club members pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Camarena and others on behalf of all Americans. These coalitions began to wear red badges of satin, red ribbons, as a symbol Camarena's memory. The Red Ribbon Week campaign emerged from the efforts of these clubs and coalitions." Today, Red Ribbon Week is nationally recognized and celebrated, helping to preserve Special Agent Camarena's memory and further the cause for which he gave his life. The Red Ribbon Campaign also became a symbol of support for the DEA's efforts to reduce demand for drugs through prevention and education programs. The Red Ribbon Week website www.iamdrugfree.com continues: "By wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, Americans demonstrate their ardent opposition to drugs. They pay homage not only to Special Agent Camarena, but to all men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of our nation's struggle against drug trafficking and abuse."

The Marked Tree Rotary Club hosts a 5K Walk/Run/Ride each year during the Cotton Pickin' Jubilee in memory of Peggy Bankston. Bankston was a community leader who worked tirelessly at school and church events and brought a smile to all who knew her. Nearly 70 people showed up for the walk, which kicked off events for the Cotton Pickin' Jubilee. Proceeds of the event went to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. As part of the event, a tree was planted in Bankston's memory and participants in the walk released pink balloons. The tree was planted across from the First United Methodist Church, where the walk begins every year. Members of the Rotary Club were on hand last week to place a sign in front of the tree which reads: In Loving Memory of Peggy Bankston. The Marked Tree Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at noon. Those who are interested in joining may contact club president David Adams at 870-358-4133.

Poinsett County government officials gathered this week in Waldenburg for their quarterly Intergovernmental Cooperative Council meeting. Everyone seemed to agree that budgets are tight due to rising fuel costs and indicated they hope to break even for the year. Waldenburg Mayor William Wood, who hosted the meeting at Woody's Barbecue Sauce Company, said one of the major issues his town faces right now is the prospect of the Post Office closing. "We're fighting like crazy to save the Post Office," Wood said. The U.S. Postal Service announced in July that it is considering closing 3,700 post offices next year because of falling revenues. A public meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at Waldenburg City Hall to allow people a chance to meet with a representative of the Postal Service to discuss potential changes. Mayor Wood also said the city has done a lot to clean vacant houses. He said the city sent out several letters to property owners of vacant properties telling them to clean up their property or the city would clean it up. He was surprised at the response he got, he said. Several of the property owners did clean up their properties while others gave the city permission to take the houses down. Mayor Wood added the city still has not seen a drop in sales tax since Highway 67 opened up. "We were scared to death the highway would affect us," he said. "But our sales tax is still the same. So far so good." Wood also said the city of Waldenburg has been trying to get a grant for a new city hall for the past few years. Harrisburg mayor Randy Mills said that city has a matching grant program going for businesses with $10,000 earmarked and noted sales tax is down a little bit. "We need businesses,"he said. "We're unique in that we're so close to Jonesboro that people don't see the need for retail businesses in Harrisburg. We're trying to entice businesses." Trumann Mayor Sheila Walters gave an update on businesses that opened in Trumann since in the last quarter, which include Second Avenue, which sells refurbished furniture, and the Kream Kup. She said Tropical Twist Pizza has also expanded to open a game room. Trumann will use a GIF grant for an Adult Education Center and currently is applying for a Tiger Grant for bike paths. Mayor Walters also expressed interest in Poinsett County cities working together to promote tourism. Lepanto Mayor Steve Jernigan agreed on the importance of and potential for attracting tourism. "One of our biggest things right now is how do we attract individuals for tourism," Jernigan said. "In Lepanto, we see quite a bit of traffic from out of state. I've noticed several cars parked on the side of the road with people looking at cotton." He added that a long term plan for tourism would pay off if they could get some overflow from people visiting Dyess for the restored boyhood home of Johnny Cash when it's completed. Mayor Jernigan also mentioned that Lepanto is working on looking for grants to replace 13,000 feet of galvanized water lines that are around 60 and 80 years old. Marked Tree Mayor Wayne Nichols said that city still is working on the Awesome Products plant Burlington Northern and is making some progress. He and city clerk Pam Wright also talked about the importance of petitioning to get the National Gas Severance Tax on the ballot for 2012. "We ought to support this because it will really help our streets," Wright said. "This sets severance tax at seven percent. Annually, that's $33 million generated for towns and streets." Mayor Nichols added that since Arkansas buys its natural gas from other states and exports most of its natural gas to other states, Arkansas consumers would see very little difference in cost, if any. County Clerk Fonda Condra mentioned the special election Nov. 8 on whether or not to extend the highway bond proposal. She said extending the bonds would fund work on the interstate and would not mean a higher tax.

Fifteen Poinsett County residents were recognized Friday, Oct. 21, as recipients of scholarships awarded by the Poinsett County Single Parent Scholarship Fund. The scholarships were for the fall 2011 semester. The ceremony took place at Southern Bancorp in Trumann. Scholarship recipients are Jo Ann Anderson, Chris Gardner, Stephanie Haskins, Regina Hindman and Shannon Henrix, all who have received single parent scholarships previously, and Tammy Brown, Angelice Coleman, Kayla Fleming, Heather Harkey, Antinika Joplin, Mariah Moore, Trinice Powell, Sundra Porter, Candice Russell and Jamaica Walker, who earned the awards for the first time. Scholarship donor Furniture and Appliances Now (FAN), represented by store manager Allen Armstrong, was recognized during the ceremony, as well as Mary Ann Arnold from Ritter. The Entergy Corporation and Arkansas Department of Higher Education also were recognized for their donations. Current board members present for the ceremony included vice chair Virginia King, secretary Fonda Condra, Jan Osment and Gale Nichols. The Poinsett County Single Parent Scholarship Fund is a 501(c) 3 private, nonprofit organization that awards scholarships to single parents of minor children who are pursuing a college education for the purpose of obtaining skilled employment. The PCSPSF has awarded 49 scholarships valued at $21,500. In 2011, 33 scholarships with a value of $14,785 have been given. PCSPSF operates completely on donations with any amount accepted. Donations can be made in honor or memory of someone and the person will be sent correspondence notifying them of the donation. Donations may be sent to: PCSPSF, P.O. Box 821, Trumann, AR 72472. Those who want more information may contact chairman Glenn Bien at 870-4830-2300 or email him at tbassn@centurytel.net.

It is almost time for the magic and mischief of Halloween.But as parents prepare their children for a night of fun, they should remember to be cautious about cars, costumes and candy. The very whimsies that are so much fun can sometimes contribute to danger. "Planning for safe costumes and trick-or-treating can keep Halloween fun and injury-free," said Mary Aitken, MD, MPH, director of the Injury Prevention Center at Arkansas Children's Hospital (ACH) and a professor of Pediatrics in the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine. "Making sure children are visible as they walk, that they can see well themselves, and that they are supervised are all important. Simple common sense measures can make the difference between a fun family evening and a trip to the emergency department." The following are some tips from the ACH Injury Prevention Center to help ensure that trick-or-treaters have a fun and injury-free Halloween: Costume Safety: * Costumes should be brightly colored and made of flame-retardant fabric * Be careful of candles and luminaries * Avoid costumes that drag the ground and cause a tripping hazard * Make sure that shoes fit properly to avoid tripping * Use reflective tape on costumes or provide children with flashlights, glow sticks or glow-in-the-dark bracelets so cars can see them * Masks should not obscure the child's vision * Face paint is a good option, but be careful to avoid skin and eye irritation * Carry only flexible "weapons" (knives, swords and other props) * Have your child carry some form of I.D. with emergency contact information. Trick-or-Treat Safety: * If possible, limit trick-or-treating to daylight hours * Select a predetermined route for your children * Trick-or-treat in familiar neighborhoods and visit only houses that are lighted * Never enter the home of a stranger * Children should trick-or-treat in groups and be accompanied by a responsible adult or older sibling * If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic * Watch for oncoming traffic when crossing the street to visit the next house * Remain on well-lighted streets. Candy Safety: * Instruct children to bring candy home to be inspected before they eat it * Dispose of any loosely wrapped or unwrapped items, or those that have any suspicious-looking marks or punctures * Small hard candies, popcorn, peanuts and very sticky candy can be possible choking hazards for children three years of age and under * Throw away home-made treats. Driving Safety: * Drive slowly and watch carefully for children crossing the street * Check for children before backing out of driveways * With many children on the streets and tagging through neighborhoods, it is especially important to put down the cell phone and not text behind the wheel; * Keep car headlights on to ensure you see all little ones nearby * Be sure to use your child's car seat or booster seat each time you get in the car, even if you're only traveling a short distance. Homeowners: * If trick-or-treaters are welcome at your home, leave the porch light on * Remove any tripping hazards from the lawn and walkways to the home * Try using strings or lights instead of candles, which can cause fires * Consider healthy food alternatives or non-food treats.

Harrisburg: Haunted Hospital The Harrisburg High School Choir is hosting The Haunted Hospital at the Verser Clinic located next to Harrisburg City Hall on East Street. Tours will begin at 6:30 p.m. and last until 11 p.m. on Oct. 27-31. Haunted Barn The "Haunted Barn" in Harrisburg is open every Friday and Saturday night in October.There is no admission fee, but they are accepting donations of canned goods for the Salvation Army.You can find them five miles down 163 North, about 1/2 mile past Raceway Rd. Haunted Homestead The grounds of Parker Homestead have been deemed haunted. The brave of heart in the community are invited to go out and explorer the ghostly grounds Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28 and 29. Visitors will be dropped off from a hayride and forced to fend their way past all the haunts and back to the parking lot. "Do you have what it takes to make it through?," asked a spokesperson. Hours are 7 p.m. until midnight. Parker Homestead is located at 16738 Homestead Road near Harrisburg. For more information on this event, contact Mary Ann Parker at 870-578-2699. Marked Tree: House of Horror The Marked Tree Fire Department House of Horror Haunted House will be open from 7 p.m. till ? Thursday, Oct. 27, to Saturday, Oct. 29, and on Monday, Oct. 31. Admission is $5 per living soul and $3 for children 10 and under. The Haunted House is located on Highway 163B in the old Holly Chevrolet Building. Black Oak: Black Oak Baptist Church will hold its annual Fall Festival from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29. There will be games, prizes, a wiener roast, hayrides and a costume contest. Everyone is welcome for food, fellowship and fun. They are located on Hwy. 149, five miles south of Marked Tree. Halloween stories Children will love hearing Halloween stories by Jonesboro author Linda Nance at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at the Marked Tree Public Library. Nance has a children's Halloween book out entitled "The Pumpkin Field" which she has also illustrated with watercolors. Nance also has two novels, "Life Goes On" and "Journey Home." "Come and hear this remarkable storyteller as you get ready for the Harvest and Halloween season," said a spokesperson. Halloween treats will be given at this special "Meet the Author" event by the Women's Progressive Club of Marked Tree. Trumann: CarnEvil haunts Trumann Trumann welcomes a gruesome haunted house, CarnEvil, just in time for Halloween. The cost is $5 a ticket and the scarefest will be held at the Sports Complex located on 16179 Pecan Grove Road in Trumann. The haunt times are as follows: Thursday, Oct. 27, 7 to 10 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 28, 8 p.m. until midnight; Saturday, Oct. 29, 8 p.m. until midnight; Sunday, Oct. 30, 7 to 10 p.m., and Monday, Oct. 31, 7 p.m. until ??? Discount passes can be printed at www.trumannparks.org. For more information on the haunted house contact Brandon Shrader at 870-483-5355. First Assembly of God festival Trumann First Assembly of God Family Fall Festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. The festival is open to all and will include food, games, hayrides, a chili cook-off, archery contest and Trunk-or-Treat. The Trumann First Assembly of God church is located on West Main Street. Lepanto: On Monday, Oct. 31, the First Baptist Church in Lepanto will host a fall festival called HallowHim. Activities begin at 6 p.m. The church is located on Kenwood Street in Lepanto.