Stories from Monday, December 12, 2011

The Poinsett County Quorum Court's budget and planning board met Tuesday, Nov. 29, to discuss the 2012 budget. Before the meeting began, the board announced that County Judge Charles Nix is doing much better. It was relayed that Nix said he hopes to be transferred to Health South this week to begin therapy. "This is his thing," said Fonda Condra, Poinsett County clerk. "He really enjoys working on the budget." Overall, the county general projected revenue was estimated to be around $2.8 million by the end of 2012. "This is a conservative projection," said Condra. In 2011, the budget reflected the revenue for county general would be $2.9 million, and in 2010 it was $2.8 million. The sales tax income for 2010 was $800,000, but in 2011 it decreased by nine percent to $742,000. "We have estimated another six percent decrease for the 2012," said Condra. The county jail is estimated to take in a little less revenue than in 2011, projected at $928,000. For the 2011 year, the board set aside $120,000 in a reserve fund. This year they plan to set aside $60,000 in the fund. One item that has not yet been figured into the budget is a 2.9 percent increase in insurance. At the meeting, Chief Deputy, Kevin Molder discussed the increases and decreases estimated in the Poinsett County Sheriff's Department section of the 2012 budget. "One increase we have is the cost of fuel," said Molder. "For 2011, we estimated gas costs to average $2.50 a gallon. The price of gas has risen tremendously, so for 2012, we have estimated gas to cost an average of $3.50 a gallon." Repairs for the department's fleet of cars also rose due to several cars being out of date. "We have an aging fleet," said Molder. "They are breaking down more frequently because of it. We have one car with 200,000 miles, another with 195,000 miles and several others around 150,000." The department hopes to add three new cars to the fleet, in order to retire some of the older cars for a total of $75,000. The estimated cost of clothing for the department was down, due to a generous donation last year of $10,000 for vests. The costs of medical and dental insurance for the jail is estimated to increase for 2012, but the water and gas bill should be decreased due to a lower inmate population. Another large chunk of the budget will be set aside for filling the county landfill. $60,000 has been set aside so far, but the board is hoping that using the county's own trucks and workers will lighten that figure. "We want to make sure there is enough room in the budget for unseen expenses," said Condra. Once the board agrees all of the details, they will present the final 2012 budget to the Poinsett County Quorum Court for approval.

The Marked Tree Historical Society and Friends of the Library will hold a holiday bake sale and silent auction fundraiser Saturday, Dec. 3. Benefitting both the Marked Tree Delta Area Museum and the Marked Tree Library, the events will be set up in library at 102 Locust Street and in the adjoining Community Room at 308 Frisco Street. Local cooks, well-known for their delicious holiday goodies, will provide bake-sale items, such at homemade pies, cakes, candy, casseroles, congealed salads, cheese rolls, fresh pecans and more. Raffle tickets will be sold at $1 each for a Hummingbird Cake. Auction items and gift cards from businesses in Marked Tree, Lepanto, Trumann, Jonesboro and the surrounding area include: car washes, oil change, lamp, three gallons of paint, a $20 gas card and many more items. Sales and bidding will start at 9 a.m. and end at 12 noon. Ample parking is available.

The Trumann Rotary Club will host a Breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec 10, in the Cedar Park Elementary School cafeteria. Breakfast will include two pancakes with syrup and butter, bacon or sausage, and juice, coffee or milk. One child and one adult can attend for $15 and each additional child or adult is $6 extra. A family of four can attend for $25 and a family of five for $30. Each family gets one family photo with Santa and additional photos may be purchased for $5 each. There also will be holiday themed activities at the event. Tickets can be purchased at Regions Bank, Southern Bancorp, Unico Bank and Victory Insurance. All of the food for the breakfast will be provided by Wal-Mart of Trumann and all proceeds will go toward future service projects conducted by the Rotary Club of Trumann.

A Trumann couple was arrested in Harrisburg early Thanksgiving morning on drug charges after being released from prison six to eight months ago for the same type of drug-related charges, the Poinsett County Sheriff's Department said. Taiera M. Barnes, 30, and Johnny C. Barnes, 31, both of 14982 Maple Grove Lane, Trumann, are being charged with possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to manufacture meth, manufacturing a controlled substance (meth), and violation of one or more conditions of suspended imposition of sentence. According to the Sheriff's Department, an ongoing investigation about suspected drug activity led investigators to a camping trailer at 13732 Dan Lane in Harrisburg. The Barnes' parole officer assured investigators they would not be at the location after midnight or would face arrest. Detective Bobby New went to the location on Nov. 24 at 12:30 a.m. and found the Barnes' vehicle parked near the camper. According to the incident report, Johnny and Taiera Barnes exited the camper after several knocks and consented to a search. Detective New allegedly found several components used in manufacturing meth, along with a one pot meth lab that was still activating. Bond was set at $50,000 cash only for Taiera Barnes and $50,000 cash only for Johnny Barnes.

As the cold weather envelopes us and Christmas fast approaches, there's nothing like relaxing in front of your fireplace to make being home for the holidays a warm and enjoyable experience. But danger can lurk in your fireplace or chimney, said Dr. Tamara Walkingstick, a forester with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 20,600 fires and 40 deaths per year are associated with fireplaces and chimneys. "Every year, Arkansas homes are destroyed by fires that start in fireplaces and chimneys and woodburning stoves and furnaces," she says. Arkansas ranks among the leading states in fire deaths. Burning wood in homes is popular for aesthetic and economic reasons, according to Walkingstick. She estimated that nearly 250,000 homes, about one in four Arkansas homes, burns wood. Most of the time, burning firewood is a safe experience. When the first big cold front comes through, people stoke up a fire in their fireplace, and invariably there will be several chimney fires, according to the state fire marshal's office. A roaring fire can ignite tar and creosote that have built up in the chimney. Safety begins with an annual inspection and, if necessary, a thorough cleaning of the chimney. You should hire a reputable chimney sweep to inspect and clean, according to the state fire marshal's office. Some insurance companies will provide homeowners a financial incentive to get an inspection. To inspect it yourself, take the cap off the top of the chimney and either shine a flashlight down the chimney or drop a light bulb on the end of an electric cord down the chimney to inspect the tile for cracks and for tar and creosote buildup. If there is a pipe from a fireplace insert in the chimney, check it for rust and creosote buildup. If there is a problem with buildup, clean the tile or pipe with a brush designed for that purpose, then reinspect to make sure you didn't cause additional damage. Also, check the firebox for cracks and buildup. Walkingstick suggests that people make sure their smoke detectors are in working order and that flammable objects are moved at least three feet from a fireplace or wood-burning stove. She says detectors are a cheap prevention for a devastating fire. She offers additional tips. If your fireplace is not equipped with a gas starter, use kindling wood. Newspaper shouldn't be used because the flaming paper can rise and ignite a chimney if it has creosote buildup. Don't use wood treated with a preservative for kindling or firewood. Inhaling the smoke from this wood can be dangerous. It's also important to make sure you start the fire and finish the fire with hot, dry wood to help eliminate residue buildup in the chimney. Don't put a large green log on the fire and let it smolder through the night. It doesn't burn as hot as dry wood, and it causes creosote buildup. "It's important to burn only seasoned firewood," said Walkingstick. "The wood should be cut and stacked for use the following year. It will burn hotter and cause less residue buildup in your chimney." Artificial logs made from compressed sawdust or wood chips mixed with wax or paraffin burn evenly and have the advantage of not being as messy as firewood, Walkingstick says. However, they are expensive. "They make excellent fire starters, or you can use them instead of firewood," she said. For more information contact your local Extension office at (870) 578-4490.

With the holiday season fast approaching, the Poinsett County Department of Human Services is again asking for help to provide Christmas gifts for the children in foster care and other needy children in Poinsett County. "There are no funds available to provide anything extra for these children at Christmas," County Administrator Dianne Stirling said. "It is only by the generosity of individuals and various religious, civic and business organizations that we are able to provide Christmas gifts for these children. Any financial assistance or donated items would be greatly appreciated." Anyone wishing to donate may contact Stirling, Mildred Hill (supervisor of Division of Children and Family Services) or Karon Leonard (local Administrative Assistant Specialist) at (870) 578-5491.

It's kind of like the soda or pop controversy -- it depends on who you ask as to whether it is dressing or stuffing. But almost everyone would agree that it wouldn't be the holidays without it. Many say it depends upon the bird -- was it cooked inside the bird or outside? Inside the bird and it's stuffing; outside and it's considered dressing. I personally think it is more of a geographical issue. Go south of the Mason-Dixon line and cooks will call it dressing, regardless of if it is prepared in the bird or alongside in a casserole dish. Likewise, northern states and New Englanders generally refer to the dish as stuffing across the board. Could the ingredients be the difference? Traditionally, northern stuffing begins with sturdy white bread, while the most common southern ingredient in dressing is cornbread. But that may not hold true either. While bread is the base for both dressing and stuffing, the rest may be as different as what you call it. You may find white bread mixed with saltine crackers, oysters in coastal communities, andouille sausage in Louisiana, or sourdough and mushrooms in California. Both likely have similar herbs, such as sage and thyme, and vegetables, onions and celery as a base. So with Thanksgiving passing and Christmas arriving, regardless of whether you call it stuffing or dressing, you have to love that side of seasoned starch and vegetables; it's only a matter of where you're eating. But one thing for sure, we can all call it one thing: delicious. The University of Arkansas Division of Ag, Research and Extension has information to assist you in making healthy holiday choices. Contact me in Poinsett County at 870-578-4490. You may also email me at slowery@uaex.edu. Follow me on Facebook at Sharon Lowery. Used with permission by Carla M. Haley. This is the dressing recipe she uses every year for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. It's a little different from others, but it is a moist, wonderful dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds. Fantastic Dressing Bake 1 chicken or turkey rubbed with salt and pepper. Reserve the broth. If using a smoked turkey, use one half to 1 can of chicken broth. Bake 1 pan of cornbread Sage, salt and pepper, to taste 1/2 cup chopped celery 1/2 cup chopped onion 4 tablespoons margarine 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 eggs raw 3/4 cup skim milk 2 boiled eggs, chopped Topping: 1 can cream of chicken soup 1/2 cup sour cream SautÈ the onion and celery in margarine. Allow to cool and lightly toss with mayonnaise. In a large mixing bowl, crumble cornbread. Pour reserved chicken broth over cornbread, until it is the consistency you like. (More broth equals moist dressing.) Sprinkle with sage, salt and pepper as desired. Mix in celery, onion and mayonnaise mixture, and chopped eggs. Beat together raw eggs and milk. Pour over mixture and stir. Pour into 9 x 13 inch baking dish that has been coated with non-stick cooking spray. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In two-quart mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake dressing, spread with topping. Cover with foil and bake at 375 degrees for about 45 minutes to one hour or until lightly brown and firm.

A lease company based out of Illinois is threatening litigation on Friday if the mayor of Fisher does not arrange payment on two leases on which the city has defaulted. The city of Fisher was in default on the two leases, one for a squad car and one for a drug dog, in January after months of missed payments. According to Paul Graver, president of First Government Loan Company, the city started making payments in March but stopped in August. Mayor Homer Anschultz signed lease purchase agreements with FGLC for the purchase of a narcotics detector dog and 2004 Dodge squad car. Adding in late fees for the first six months of missed payments, the city still owes $6,725.65 for the dog and $3761.56 for the car. In a letter to Mayor Anschultz dated Nov. 29, Graver threatened to initiate litigation if he is not contacted by Friday to arrange payment or a payment plan. According to the lease, if FGLC has to litigate it would be entitled to declare the entire amount of rent immediately due and payable. After late fees, that would amount to $7,400 and $5,600 plus legal costs. "I'm going to sue them Friday," Graver said. "They're deadbeats. They write checks with their mouths. I'm going to turn their couch upside down and shake out all the change." As of press time, the mayor of Fisher could not be reached by phone.

Tis the season for poinsettias, and we get the usual flood of questions on how to care for them. Poinsettias start flooding the market usually as soon as we've eaten the last of the turkey. Poinsettias like bright sunlight, warm growing conditions and even moisture. If you bring home a lovely wrapped plant and place it in a dark spot, be prepared for the leaves to begin yellowing and dropping. With bright light and a cool location indoors, and given ample moisture -- not too wet or too dry, they can be attractive for months. Since they are lasting so long these days, there are many new color choices, helping them fit into the interior decor much easier. From muted reds, pinks and whites, there are also purples, yellows and bi-colors. Sizes also run the gamut from miniatures to tree form. Whatever the size or the color, care is pretty much the same. Speaking of seasonal plants, this is also the time when we choose the family Christmas tree. Unless you use an artificial tree, I am sure there is some horror story associated with the annual tree. Everyone that has dealt with a real tree has probably had one fall over completely decorated. Others I am sure have also had to do some serious pruning once they got it home to make it fit indoors! Choose your tree wisely. Don't just look for a straight stem and a reasonably sized tree, but make sure it is fresh. Cut trees dry out extremely fast indoors. The needles should be pliable and not drop off at the slightest touch. Once you get your tree home, give it a fresh cut to remove at least an inch off the bottom of the cut end. Get it in water immediately, even if you aren't bringing it indoors. Warm water works best. There are numerous preservatives on the market, but research has shown that plenty of fresh water is the main ingredient for success. For more information contact the Poinsett County Cooperative Extension Service at 870-578-4490.

Lepanto's 23rd annual Community Christmas Parade will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. No entry fee is required, but everyone must complete an entry fee and waiver to participate. This year's Grand Marshal is Mack Howington of Lepanto. The master of ceremonies is Jody Duffel, assisted by Tarra Wright Holt. Those who want more information may contact Kaye Holiman at (870) 475-6084 or mericiakh@rittermail.com. The deadline for entries is Saturday, Dec. 3. Elementary School Event The East Poinsett County (EPC) Elementary Lepanto campus will host a Polar Express Literacy Night from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, for elementary students. Children are asked to wear pajamas to school that day and night. The teachers will have golden tickets for the students to travel from room to room for the activities. Community leaders and parents are encouraged to go to the school that day and read to the students. Those who want more information may contact Paige Tyler at the school, (870) 475-2632. Christmas Program The The EPC Lepanto campus will have its annual Christmas program Thursday, Dec. 15, in the school cafeteria. Those who want more information may contact Ms. Fischer at (870) 475-2632. Decorating Contest The Lepanto homeowners and merchants Light Up, Fix Up and Decorate It contest will be from 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14. Participates are asked to turn on their displays and keep them lit during this time. The winners will be announced the following day. The top three will have a yard sign displayed in their yard during the month, receive a plaque and recognition in the Poinsett County Democrat-Tribune newspaper.

Hoecakes, johnnycakes, journey cakes -- these are all names for that thin, flat cake, prepared from a batter and cooked on a hot griddle or frying pan, that we affectionately call pancakes. These flat cakes were an important food to early settlers of New England. Without the cornmeal cakes, or johnnycakes or journey cakes, they learned to make, they might have starved. By 1745, Americans began referring to pancakes as hoecakes, possibly because they were cooked on a flat hoe blade. Most of the pancakes we eat today are made with some kind of leavener, to make the cakes lighter. Leavening is a chemical reaction caused by the formation of carbon dioxide. In pancakes, and other kinds of baking, carbon dioxide is formed by baking soda, baking powder or yeast. These leaveners all work in different ways and need different ingredients to make them work. Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate, but it also includes an acidifying agent, like cream of tartar, and a drying agent, such as a starch. Baking powder is available as single-acting baking powder and as double-acting baking powder. Single-acting powders are activated by liquid; with double acting powder, some gas is released at room temperature when the powder is added to the dough, but the majority of the gas is released after the temperature of the dough increases with the cooking. Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate. When baking soda is combined with moisture and an acidic ingredient such as yogurt, buttermilk or honey, the resulting chemical reaction will produce bubbles of carbon dioxide. The reaction begins immediately upon mixing the ingredients. Yeast is tiny plants that need food and water to grow. In breads and other baked goods, sugar and water provide food for the yeast. The yeast digests the sugar and gives off carbon dioxide gas bubbles which cause the air spaces that help the dough to rise. The yeasts themselves are killed by heat in cooking. If you would like to receive additional information on how to modify your recipes for better health, contact me at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture in Miller County at 870-779-3609. You may also email me at chaley@uaex.edu. Follow me on facebook at Carla M. Haley. Instead of making pancakes from a mix, try this recipe. It is so easy and will make irresistible pancakes everyone will love. Serve them with any fruit of your choice, such as sliced strawberries, sliced peaches, or blueberries and lowfat whipped cream. You won't even miss the melted butter or syrup. Can't Pass Them Up Fluffy Pancakes 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons white sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 egg 2 tablespoons butter, melted 3/4 cup buttermilk cooking spray Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk egg and butter with buttermilk. Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and whisk until lumps are gone. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and coat with cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip with a spatula and cook until browned on the other side. Yield: 8 pancakes, 2 per serving, 230 calories, 8 grams fat, 650 mg sodium, 33 carbohydrates, 1 gram fiber, 6 grams protein.

Give the gift of warmth. Ritter Communications and Southern Bancorp are holding a coat drive this Christmas season. They are asking for donations of new or gently used coats for area students. Simply drop coats off at any Ritter Communications or Southern Bancorp location.

The Alzheimer's Support Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, at Three Rivers Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Marked Tree. The guest speaker will be State Rep. Butch Wilkins.

Trumann school board members approved this week a disclosure resolution agreement to disclose the relationships of potential vendors to the school and employees. Board members disclosed the relationship between Keith Johnson of Tru-Clean Carpet Cleaning, a potential vendor to the Trumann School District, and his spouse Donna Johnson. Also discussed was the relationship between potential vendor Steve Horn of Couch's BBQ and his spouse Tammy Horn. The board denied the transfer request to Valley View School District for Paige Blasingame and accepted the resignation of Dana Spencer, a third grade teacher at Cedar Park Elementary School.

The ASU Department of Social Work will sponsor its fourth annual World AIDS Day Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 1-2, on the third floor of ASU's Carl R. Reng Student Union,101 N. Caraway Road. The conference is designed to help raise awareness about the impact of HIV in Arkansas. Free confidential HIV testing will be provided. The HIV test is a non-invasive procedure in which the cheek inside the mouth is gently swabbed. Testing is confidential, and the immediate results and prevention counseling are provided in a sensitive, supportive, and professional manner. Those tested during the conference will also receive a free t-shirt to help raise awareness in Craighead County. The conference is free and open to the public. On Thursday, Dec. 1, the itinerary includes a panel presentation addressing HIV prevalence, prevention efforts and care resources in Arkansas by Dr. Dirk Haselow, medical director, Communicable Diseases and Immunizations, Arkansas Department of Health; Debbie Biazo, director of the Northeast Arkansas Regional AIDS Network (NARAN), and Dr. Carl Abraham, Infectious Disease and Control Consultants (IDCC). Small breakout sessions addressing concerns on vulnerable populations for African American males, youth, religious communities, women and elders will be followed by a free public screening of the film "A Closer Walk." The day will culminate with the creation of a human "living ribbon" on the Heritage Plaza lawn. The conference resumes at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2, with a discussion on living life with HIV by Connie, the "Condom Lady," followed by a candlelight ceremony on the Heritage Plaza lawn, on the east side of the Reng Student Union. This year's conference will conclude with a keynote address by Dr. Jocelyn Elders, a passionate advocate of public health, appointed as the 16th Surgeon General of the United States by President Clinton in 1993. A native daughter of Arkansas, Dr. Elders was the first African American and only the second woman to head the U.S. Public Health Service. Committee members for this year's conference include Dr. Patricia Guy Walls, Dr. Kat Carrick, Dr. Gauri Bhattacharya, Dr. Peggy Wright and Niya Blair. Co-sponsors for World AIDS Day 2011 include ASU's College of Nursing and Health Professions, the Multicultural Center, the Office of Diversity Initiatives, Minority Health Services, the Delta Studies Center, the BSW and the MSW Social Work student organizations, and also the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW), the Arkansas Department of Health, the North Arkansas Regional AIDS Network, Dr. Carl Abraham, Infectious Disease and Control Consultants, and Life Strategies Counseling, Inc. Free continuing education units are available for social workers. Pre-registration by email is appreciated. To register, contact Terri Clark (terri.clark@smail.astate.edu), Dr. Patricia Walls (pwalls@astate.edu), or Dr. Kat Carrick (krcarrick@astate.edu). For additional information, contact ASU's Department of Social Work at (870) 972-3984.

MARKED TREE - James Earnest "J.E." Stidem, 87, of Marked Tree died Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro. Mr. Stidem was born July 30, 1924, to Jesse and Flossie Stidem. He was a Methodist and a retired oil truck driver for Ritter Oil Company. Mr. Stidem was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, L.D. Stidem, and two sons, Gary and Randy Stidem. Survivors include his wife, Geraldine Stidem of the home; daughter-in-law, Connie Stidem of Marked Tree; granddaughter, Misty Hicks (Allen) of Marked Tree; great-grandson, Brayden Hicks, and nephew, Terry Seaton of Jonesboro. Graveside services were Nov. 17 at Marked Tree Cemetery with Rick Kimery officiating. Honorary pallbearer was Brayden Hicks. Murphy Funeral Home in Marked Tree was in charge of arrangements.

TRUMANN - Mrs Helen M. Reeves, 83, of Trumann died Friday morning, Nov. 25, 2011, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro. She was born in Trumann, the daughter of Vernon and Juliann Pipkin, and lived most of her life in Trumann. Mrs. Reeves farmed with her husband. She was a member of the First General Baptist Church of Trumann. She enjoyed time spent with family, picking up pecans and cooking. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother and one sister. Survivors include her husband, Mayo Reeves of the home; two daughters, Sharon Hopper and husband Cliff of Trumann and Karen Dunkerson of Jonesboro; two sons, Murray Reeves of Trumann and David Reeves and wife Edna of Harrisburg; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral service was Monday morning, Nov. 28, at 10 a.m. in the chapel of Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann with Bro. Darrel Miller and Bro. Leonard Harp officiating. Burial followed in Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. Pallbearers were Tracy Holt, Ben Barker, Terry Coots, Tommy Coots, Paul Gairhan and Derek Walton. Honorary pallbearers were Keith Davies and Steve Coots. Visitation was Sunday evening, Nov. 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann. The family asks that those who would like to make donations in memory of Mrs. Reeves please consider the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro and the First General Baptist Church in Trumann. An online register book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.

TRUMANN - Mr. James E. Moon, 84, of Trumann, died Monday, Nov. 21, 2011, at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital in Jonesboro, Ark. He was born in Bay, Ark. He worked for the Singer Company and Trumann Upholstery. He was of the Baptist faith. Mr. Moon was preceded in death by his parents, Vick and Inez (Doty) Moon; step-mother, Quida Moon; brothers, Bill, Charlie, Tom and Paul Moon, and sisters, Jennette Marby and Rochelle Norman. Survivors include his wife, Auda Bell Moon; sons, James Dennis Moon of Allen, Texas, Roger Moon of Trumann and H. Gregory Moon of Eureka Springs; daughter, Kathie Waymon of Jonesboro; brothers, Floyd Moon of Trumann, Larry Moon of Lake City, Jackie Moon of Bay and Craig Moon of Trumann; sisters, Vicky Holden of Houston, Texas, and Louann Moon of Jonesboro; grandchildren, Roger Moon Jr., Stacy Bailey, Melanie Tiemeier, Jeremy and Derek Waymon, Chelsey Gann, Ryan Vericker, Mat Vericker and Heather Coin, and great-grandchildren, Rylee Bailey, Hadlee Bailey, Hallie Tiemeier, Draven Tiemeier, Olivia Waymon and Ella Waymon. Funeral service was Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 23, at 1 p.m. in the chapel of Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann with Dr. Tad Rogers officiating. Burial followed in Nettleton Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. Pallbearers were Tommy Coin, Gary Goodwin, Pete Porterfield, Bubby and Hunter Robinson and Keith McElyea. Visitation was Tuesday, Nov. 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home. An online guest book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.

JONESBORO - Mr. Frederick Charles Carl Kaufman was born June 22, 1935, son of the late Charles H. and Gladys Ada Whitney Kaufman. Mr. Kaufman died Tuesday, Nov. 22, at the age of 76. He was born on the farm of his aunt and uncle, Charles and Evelyn Whitney Green. The farm was located in the Town of Florida, Montgomery County, New York. Frederick's father, Charles, liked to travel and was infatuated with the western way of life in Arizona. Frederick grew up in the back of a 1938 Chevrolet traveling, with his father and mother, from upstate New York to Arizona, California, Florida and back to New York. Frederick attended six grade schools and seven high schools. He attended college at Northwest Mississippi Junior College in Senatobia, Miss., on the GI Bill for two years. He was pledged to Phi Theta Kappa fraternity. Frederick enlisted in the U.S. Navy on Sept. 2, 1952, and retired from service on Jan. 1, 1972. After leaving the service, he worked as a Factory Service Representative for a business machine company , a production supervisor for Parker Hannifin Inc., and retired because of bad health in 1960. He was a member of McCormick Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Anna Dorothy Connelly, Wilma Leona Ferrara and Emma Louise Donnelly; his parents, and wife, Janet J. Short Kaufman. Survivors include wife, Glenda Richardson Kaufman of Jonesboro, Ark.; one daughter, Marie A. Mabry of Memphis, Tenn.; two sons, Kurt Charles Kaufman and wife Verla of Rapid City, S.D., and Eric Carl Kaufman of Batesville, Miss.; one grandson , Joseph L. Kaufman of Shreveport, La.; four granddaughters, Benolyn M. Craig and husband Alex of Memphis, Tenn., Melody L. Mabry of Memphis, Tenn., Erica Kaufman of Sardis, Miss., and Dakota Isaacs of Rapid City, S.D.; five great-grandchildren; two step-daughters, Rhonda Jones and husband Bobby and Sherry Taylor and husband Scott; three step-grandsons, Jordan Long and wife Emily, Preston Jones and Cameron Jones; three step-granddaughters, Ashton and Josh Carr, Morgan Taylor and Haven Taylor, and one step-great-granddaughter, all of Trumann, Ark. Funeral service was at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, in the chapel of Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann. Burial followed in Nettleton Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. Pallbearers were Gary Beard, Ronnie Samuel, Terry, David and Richie Richardson and Buley Raymond. The men of the McCormick Baptist Church served as honorary pallbearers. Visitation was from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, at Thompson Funeral Home. An online guest book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.

TRUMANN - Mr. Delvin B. Harlan, 94, of Trumann died Sunday morning, Nov. 27, 2011, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House. He was born in Mt. Vernon, Ark., and had lived most of his lifetime in Trumann. He was a veteran of World War II, where he received a Purple Heart, a retired farmer, member of the Trumann Masonic Lodge, and charter member of the First General Baptist Church, where he had served as a Deacon for over 60 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita (Robertson) Harlan; two sisters, Geraldine Eads and Eddie Faye Eads, and his parents, Golden Kye and Hattie Breeding Harlan. Survivors include one daughter, Charlotte Ann Harlan of Jonesboro; one son, Gary Don Harlan of Jonesboro; four grandchildren, Holly and Justin Harlan, Melanie Goodwin and Dana Bingham; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters, Georgia Qualls of Kansas City, Mo., and Erma Jean Wood of Pine Bluff, Ark., and one brother, KG Harlan of Jonesboro. Funeral services were Tuesday morning, Nov. 29, at 10 a.m. at the First General Baptist Church of Trumann, with Bro. Darrel Miller and Bro. Joey Ruppard officiating. Burial followed in the Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark., under the direction of Thompson Funeral Home of Trumann. Pallbearers were Justin Harlan, Trevor Blasingame, Tyler Goodwin, Cole and Paul Bingham, Danny Harlan, Michael Clem and Wally Bradsher. Honorary pallbearers were Rusty Jones, Eugene Richardson, Shorty Hargrove, James Pagan, Bud Bingham, C.A. Jones and Herman Robertson. Visitation was Monday evening, Nov. 28, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home. The family asks that those who would like to make donations in memory of Mr. Harlan please consider the First General Baptist Church in Trumann, and Flo and Phil Hospice House in Jonesboro. Online guest book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net

JACKSONVILLE - Martha Annette Harvison, age 73, of Jacksonville passed away Friday, Nov. 25, 2011. She was born April 3, 1938, in Poinsett County, Ark., to the late Vaughn and Molly Eva Harvison. She was a loving mother and a devoted sister. She is survived by her children, Debra Brasfield and her husband Eddie, Ricky Presley and Duane Presley and his wife Sharon; two brothers, Julian Harvison and Hix Harvison; grandchildren, Jason and Brian Hampton, Jessica, Jared and Jenna Presley and Gabriel Cantu, and great-grandchildren, Sarah Grace, Jonathan and Caleb Hampton and Kaliegh Presley. Visitation was from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, 2011, at the funeral home. Funeral services were at 12 noon Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011, at Moore's Jacksonville Funeral Home with Bro. Richard Thompson officiating. Interment followed in Chapel Hill Memorial Park. Arrangements by Moore's Jacksonville Funeral Home (501) 982-2136. Sign online guestbook at www.mooresjacksonvillefuneralhome.com.

TENNESSEE - Mrs. Judy Kay Baker Pennington Ford, 56, of Whiteside, Tenn., died Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011, at Erlanger Health System in Chattanooga, Tenn. Mrs. Ford was born in Trumann and had lived in Tennessee for the past 11 years. She was a home health caretaker and of the Pentecostal faith. Mrs. Ford was preceded in death by her parents, Betty Dean Pipkin and C.J. Baker. Survivors include her husband, Randy Ford of the home; one son, Jeffrey Pennington of Chattanooga, Tenn.; two sisters, Deneace Tate and Connie Baker, both of Trumann; one brother, Joey Baker of Bono, Ark., and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, in the chapel of Thompson Funeral Home of Trumann with Rev. Jerry Dunning officiating. Burial followed in the Herman Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. Active pallbearers were Allen Tate, Tanner Tate, Cameron Gay, Jason Gay, Billy Joe Baker and Jesse Baker. Visitation was Friday evening, Nov. 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann, Ark. An online register book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.

WALNUT RIDGE - Mr. Joe David Crossno, 62, of Walnut Ridge, Ark., died Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro, Ark. He was born in Jonesboro and had lived in Walnut Ridge for the past 22 years and was formerly of Trumann. Mr. Crossno was a former parts manager for Lawrence County Tractor Company, a 1967 graduate of Trumann High School and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Trumann. He spent most of his pastime flying model airplanes and working with model trains. He was preceded in death by his first wife, June Crossno, and his second wife, Betty Crossno; one brother, Edwin Sonny Crossno, and was the son of the late Jathen Ray and Sylvia Olene Kendall Crossno. Survivors include one daughter, Holly Leigh Criss and husband Jeff of Bay, Ark.; two grandchildren, Allison Martin and husband Anthony of Bono, Ark., and Christa Arnold of Bay; one sister, Janane Crossno Kidd and husband Ray of Jonesboro, and two nephews, Adam Kidd of Heber Springs, Ark., and Mark Kidd of Portland, Ore. Funeral services were Saturday afternoon, Nov. 26, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Thompson Funeral Home with Rev. Doug Criss officiating. Private burial followed in the Oaklawn Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. Visitation was Saturday afternoon from 12:30 until 2 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann. The family requests that memorials be made to the American Lung Association. An online guest book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.

Charles Headrick, a native of Trumann, shows one of three old Trumann newspapers dating back to the 1940s. The papers were found in his home after moving and were used as shelf liners. Headrick is 73 years old and worked for Singer for 23 years, followed by Roach's for 14 years. (DT Photo/JACKIE WILSON) This newspaper, brought in by Charles Headrick, was printed on Nov. 13, 1942. The issue wishes World War II soldiers overseas a Merry Christmas. It was printed in November so that soldiers who had loved ones to mail local papers to them would receive it around Christmas. (DT Photo/JACKIE WILSON)

Leroy May and Bob Sowell wash pots at the 35th annual Lions Club Barbeque held Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Cedar Park Elementary cafeteria. (Photo provided)

Christmas lights will be twinkling, bonfires will be roaring and music will be playing as Parker Pioneer Homestead hosts its second annual Homestead Holidays Wine Tasting. Wine stations will be set up in six cabins on the homestead. The cabins will be decorated for Christmas with different wines and food in each. "Participants will go from cabin to cabin tasting wines, trying foods, and stopping to visit at bonfires along the way," Mary Anne Parker said. Food stations will include a smoked meats station, two appetizer stations, a dessert station, a cheese station and a seafood station. Last year's meat station featured smoked and peppered pork tenderloin, bacon-wrapped duck, cream cheese and jalapeno stuffed-belly goose and various sausages. "The food is great," she said. Several different wines will be showcased, including Arkansas wines. The general store also will be open for Christmas shopping. The Holidays Wine Tasting will be held from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. The event is drop-in, but reservations are required. The price is $25 per person. To secure a spot, e-mail maryanne@parkerhomestead.com or call (870) 530-3123. Parker Pioneer Homestead is a recreated 19th century town located six miles south of Harrisburg featuring a vast collection of buildings and artifacts from the past. It is owned and operated by four generations of Parkers and evolved through an interest in local history and a desire to preserve it for the enjoyment of others.

Hot cocoa, festive music and bright lights all signal the coming of Christmas, and what better way to celebrate good cheer than by attending one of the many Christmas parades to be held in Poinsett County. The Harrisburg Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade is set to roll Saturday, Dec. 3, according to parade chairman Mark Weston. "We are scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. and all entries need to be checked in and lined up by 3:30 p.m.," Weston said. Leading the way will be the Harrisburg High School ROTC and the award-winning Harrisburg High School Band. The parade will follow the same route as in the past, starting at the court square and proceeding west on Highway 14 to Cole Street. It will continue past the Woodbriar Nursing Home and end at the Harrisburg High School parking lot. The theme for this year's parade is "The Sights and Sounds Of Christmas." The city will be honoring Mauria Morgan as the parade's official Grand Marshal. "Mauria has been an asset to this community for many years and it is time we give her the honor she deserves," Weston said. "We want to encourage everyone to come out and help support the parade. A lot of hard work goes into putting together a nice parade and it is really nice when the community comes out in strong support." All dignitaries and beauty contestants are urged to participate. Local school groups and city clubs are welcome to design and enter their own personal floats as well. "We are not going to have our antique car competition this year, but we do want to encourage all those who own those special vehicles to participate in the parade," Weston said. "We will have our costume characters walking again this year and that always adds such a great feel to the parade. But, of course, the biggest attention getter is always the prize giveaway at the conclusion of the parade. "Once again, the big-ticket winner will go home with $1,000 in Harrisburg Bonus Bucks, the second place winner will receive a $200 gift certificate from Food Giant and 10 winners will claim $100 each in Harrisburg Bonus Bucks." Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate in the decorating contest this year. Home decorations prizes are $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place. "Make plans to be in town Saturday, Dec. 3, and support Harrisburg's Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade," Weston said. Other scheduled Christmas parades in Poinsett County include: * Trumann Christmas Parade Thursday, Dec. 8. The theme is "Rockin' at Christmas Night" and all who enter are encouraged to play music from their float. Lineup will begin at Burger King and the parade will march through town to the old community building. First, second and third place trophies will be awarded. * Marked Tree Parade at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. Lineup will take place at 5 p.m. at First Delta Bank. Those who want more information or wish to register for the event may contact Linda's Flowers and Gifts. * Lepanto Christmas Parade at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, beginning at The Painted House. Kaye Holliman is in charge of the event. Those who want more information may contact her at (870) 475-6084. * Tyronza Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2. There is no cost to enter and floats can be registered at city hall. Lineup will take place at A and A Service station. Tyronza also will hold a home decorating contest for those who live in the city. This December, don't let the winter chill keep you away from having some warm fellowship with the folks of Poinsett County. Parades are a source of pride and this holiday season is sure to be full of Christmas spirit.

The 14th annual Trumann Community Christmas Dinner will take place on Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25. A lunch will be served starting at 11 a.m. and continuing through 1 p.m. at the Trumann Sports Complex, located at 16179 Pecan Grove. "The Christmas dinner normally takes place at the Old Community Center," said Lindsay Miller, who has helped organize the event. "This is the first year we are having it at the Sports Complex." The meal is open to the community and is completely free of charge. Everyone is welcome to either eat at the recreational facility or have their Christmas meal delivered. "Residents are welcome to call and have their dinner delivered up until Christmas day," Miller said. To have a meal delivered, Trumann residents should call Cecilia Parker at 483-6219 or 483-3846 to make the arrangement. "Churches from all over the community and volunteers make the sides, like mashed potatoes and dressing," Miller said. "Right now, we need meat donations." The community is welcome to donate turkeys and hams up until Dec. 20. Any meat donation can be dropped off at Couches BBQ in Trumann. Couches restaurant will cook all of the meat for the Christmas dinner. "All of the other food is accounted for," Miller said. Last year, over 774 people were fed through the Trumann Community Christmas Dinner. Volunteers still are needed for the day of the event to help deliver and serve food. "If anyone would like to volunteer, I'll give them something to do," Miller said. Lindsay Miller can be reached for further questions about the event or to enlist volunteers at 483-3183.

Emergency crews responded to a fire at a residence on Third Street in Trumann Wednesday morning. Owner Bonnie Ashe was at home when the fire started, but managed to get out safely. The Trumann Fire Department cleared the scene by noon. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.