Stories from Thursday, December 29, 2011

Poinsett County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Martin Lilly has been terminated. In a statement released Wednesday by District Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, Ellington said he will announce who will fill the vacancy soon. Full story will follow in next week's Poinsett County Democrat Tribune...

Could your child be sexting or texting about drugs and/or alcohol? Before you answer this question consider the following statistics: Recent research involving sexting and teenagers indicates the percent of teenagers sending or posting sexually suggestive messages: * 39 percent of all teenagers * 37 percent of teen girls * 40 percent of teen boys * 71 percent of teen girls and 67 percent of teen guys who have sent or posted sexually suggestive content say they have sent or posted this content to a boyfriend or girlfriend. * 44 percent of both teen girls and teen boys say it is common for sexually suggestive text messages to get shared with people other than the intended recipient. * 51 percent of teen girls say pressure from a guy is a reason girls send sexy messages or images; only 18 percent of teen boys cited pressure from female counterparts as a reason. * 66 percent of teen girls and 60 percent of teen boys say they sent sexy content to be fun or flirtatious. * 52 percent of teenage girls used sexting as a sexy present for their boyfriend. * 44 percent of both teen girls and teen boys say they sent sexually suggestive messages or images in response to such content they received. * 40 percent of teenage girls said they sent sexually suggestive messages or images as a joke. * 34 percent of teen girls say they sent or posted sexually suggestive content to feel sexy. * 12 percent of teen girls felt pressured to send sexually suggestive messages or images. * 29 percent report receiving messages with sexual words or images by text or on the Internet. Statistics On Teenage Drug Use Consider the following teenage drug and alcohol abuse statistics: * Ten percent of teens report they have attended a rave, and ecstasy and other drugs were available at more than two-thirds of these raves. * 63 percent of the youth who drink alcohol say they initially got the alcohol from their own or their friend's homes. * More than 60 percent of teens said drugs were sold, used or kept at their school. * 20 percent of eighth graders report they have tried marijuana. * 28 percent of teens know a classmate or friend who has used ecstasy (Teen Substance Abuse). * Teenagers whose parents talk to them on a regular basis about the dangers of drug use are 42 percent less likely to use drugs than those whose parents don't. * Approximately 36.8 million Americans ages 12 and older had tried cocaine at least once in their lifetimes. * 19.5 percent of eighth graders, 28.2 perent of 10th graders and 38.9 percent of 12th graders reported that powder cocaine was "fairly easy" or "very easy" to obtain (Whitehouse Drug Policy, 2008). * Approximately 15 percent of 10th and 12th graders have used amphetamines. * Teen arrestees often test positive for recent drug use. The National Institute of Justices Arrestee and Drug Monitoring System (ADAM) drug testing program found that 66 percent of underage male arrestees tested positive for marijuana. Works Cited * "ADASK," Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Statistics, Trends, and Costs. May 2005. http://www.ni-cor.com/statisticandtrends.html * "Teen Substance Abuse" GDCADA. March 2005 and May 2005. http://www.gdcada.org/statistics/teens.htm * "The Teen Drug Scene" Diabetes Forecast: The Teen Drug Scene. 2003 and May 2005. http://www.findarticles.com/plarticles/mi_m0817/is_3_52/ai_54129994 Because research indicates that communication between parents and children is vital to the prevention of sexting and addiction issues, Drs. Ralph and Paula Ruby learned from interviews with drug counselors that communicating in the language of the texting youngsters was critical.

JONESBORO - Arkansas State University's Fowler Center, 201 Olympic Drive, Jonesboro, announces its fifth performance of the 2011-12 season when the series resumes with musician, songwriter and actor Billy Dean at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, in the Fowler Center's Riceland Hall. Tennessee has long been known throughout the world for its rich musical heritage. Talented musicians from across the nation have traveled to Nashville to begin legendary careers that have earned Music City USA a reputation that is unsurpassed in the pantheon of American music. One such talented musician is Billy Dean, whose insightful songwriting, clear and distinctive voice, and masterful instrumental gifts have earned him accolades from many awards academies and countless devoted fans. A native of Quincy, Fla., Dean was raised to appreciate the value of music -- his father, Billy Dean, played in a band named the Country Rock, and son Billy began performing with the group at age 8. The junior Dean's diverse array of musical influences also includes other family members, such as his uncle, country star Jimmy Dean. After attending college for a year on a basketball scholarship, Dean moved to Nashville in 1983, and by 1990 had recorded his first Top 5 Hit, "Only Here For A Little While." Dean has since transcended genres with his unique repertoire, earning numerous awards, including the Academy of Country Music's Song of the Year for "Somewhere in My Broken Heart," and the Academy of Country Music's New Male Vocalist of The Year award. He's also been the recipient of BMI Pop awards, BMI Song awards, the BMI Million Air Plays Award, Country Music Television's Rising Star Award, the NSAI Song of The Year award, and a Grammy for his country tribute, "Amazing Grace." His latest album, "Let Them Be Little," was inspired by those closest to him, his two children, Hannah and Eli, and his wife Stephanie. Deans' illustrious career was recently recognized with a proclamation from the State of Tennessee House of Representatives. Dean's appeal reaches beyond the music world. He has appeared on numerous television shows, as well as made-for-TV movies, including Blue Valley Songbird, A Face to Kill For, Lois and Clark, One Life to Live, Diagnosis Murder, Good Morning America and The Tonight Show. After decades of churning out hits, Billy Dean -- with his gratifying guitar and his distinctive voice -- gives every audience an unforgettable performance. Ticket prices are $30 and $20 for adults; $24 and $16 for ASU faculty and staff; $23 and $15 for senior adults and K-12 students, and $10 and $6 for ASU students. All seating is reserved, and tickets may be purchased at the ASU Central Box Office in the Convocation Center, 217 Olympic Drive, Jonesboro, or by calling (870) 972-2781 or toll-free at (888) 278-3267. Tickets also are available online from the ASU Central Box Office (http://www2.astate.edu/tickets/) and from Fowler Center (http://www.yourfowlercenter.com/). On performance evenings, the box office in the Fowler Center opens one hour prior to the event. Contact Fowler Center (http://www.yourfowlercenter.com/) at (870) 972-3471.

It's not unusual for his neighbors in Jacksonport, Ark., to see the ambulance pull into 87-year-old Clint Foust's driveway. He's battled pneumonia eight times so far this year, and pneumonia can be even more precarious while one is fighting a terminal disease. So when the stretch limousine pulled into the lifelong mechanic's driveway on Aug. 4, the neighbors were a bit taken aback. "They asked my son if I was going to Tunica," Foust said. "He told them I wasn't going to win money; I was going to get some memories." And he did. Foust had always had a wish to see and hear one of his country music favorites in concert. Thanks to his relationship with Lester Dierksen Memorial Hospice, and some "fairy godmothers" in the form of Crown Limo, the Jonesboro Holiday Inn and Couch's Bar-B-Q, Foust's "Cinderella" moment brought him not only to the Johnny Cash Music Festival, but gave him, he said, "one of the biggest honors of my days." Dierksen community liaison Donna Cullison coordinated the surprise. The limo carried Foust on his first-ever VIP ride with some family members, his hospice nurse, Jeannie Moore, and Cullison to Arkansas State University's Convocation Center. There, artists Rosanne Cash, John Carter Cash, Kris Kristofferson, George Jones, Rodney Crowell and others were rehearsing for the evening's concert. It was then his "Cinderella" dream came true. He was given a VIP pass to the sound check. He said he enjoyed hearing Johnny's brother, Tommy Cash, singing "Five Feet High and Risin." George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today" was a special favorite, he said. Not only did Foust watch the entire rehearsal with his family, he got to meet artists like Rosanne Cash and Kris Kristofferson and hold a guitar all the artists signed to benefit the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home. He even consented to an interview with a Little Rock radio station that was covering the concert. Cullison said Foust was beyond happy. "The memories made for Mr. Foust and his family through the generosity of these folks is something that will last for the rest of his life," she said. After the rehearsal, Crown Limo took Foust and his entourage to the Jonesboro Holiday Inn, where they were provided a room to rest between the sound check and the concert. It was there Couch's Bar-B-Q provided a meal with all the fixins' for the group. "We were thrilled and proud of the way they treated Dad," daughter Norine Barnhill said of her father's first live concert experience. The day's excitement was tiring, though, and the group decided it was probably best if they headed back home for some rest. Foust made sure his tickets to the sold-out event didn't go to waste; he gave them to the limo driver and his family to enjoy. Back in Jacksonport, Foust's VIP pass hangs on the wall of his living room for all his guests to see. He gladly retells his visitors what a thrill the day was and wants them to know everyone was so nice in making him feel like a "very important person." "That was a day to remember for always."

LITTLE ROCK - Amidst the carols, hot cocoa and cookies, the joy and merriment of the holiday season is here. As parents go out to purchase presents for their good little girls and boys, safety hazards need to be considered. According to a report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 181,500 children younger than 15 were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments due to toy-related injuries in 2010. "Injuries affecting the head are the most common and, unfortunately, the most serious," said Alison Rose, home safety and regional programs coordinator for the Injury Prevention Center at Arkansas Children's Hospital (ACH). "Supervision is the key piece of the injury prevention puzzle. We tend to visit others' homes more during the holidays, so it is important to remember not every home has been childproofed." Keep your children cheerful and safe this holiday season with these tips from the ACH Injury Prevention Center: * Choose toys appropriate for your child's age and skill level. Follow the guidance on labels about which ages a toy is most suitable for. * Head injuries are the most common toy-related injuries, so make sure your child wears proper safety equipment. Even young children on tricycles and scooters should wear helmets. * Choking is a big concern. Children tend to choke on balloons, small balls and other toys with small parts. Check toys regularly for damage that could create small pieces that are choking hazards. * Batteries are both a choking danger and a poison danger. Coin-sized "button" batteries, commonly found in remote controls and singing greeting cards, are easy to swallow and can cause holes in the throat, tissue damage or even death. * Immediately after opening gifts, remove plastic wrap, ribbons and other choking or suffocation hazards from a child's reach. * If secondhand toys are purchased or received, parents should visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website, www.cpsc.gov, or call 1-800-638-2772 to make sure the toy has not been recalled for safety reasons. * If a new toy comes with a product registration card, mail it in and the manufacturer will contact you if the item is ever recalled. * Establish rules and consequences for breaking the rules. Enforce them consistently. * Actively supervise children when they are playing with riding toys as well as any toy that has small parts, electrical or battery power, cords or any other potential hazard. Not only does it reduce the risk of injury, it promotes social and emotional learning for children. For additional safety information, contact ACH's Injury Prevention Center at 501-364-3400 or visit or visit http://www.archildrens.org/injury_prevention. Arkansas Children's Hospital is the only pediatric medical center in Arkansas and one of the largest in the United States serving children from birth to age 21. The campus spans 29 city blocks and houses 316 beds, a staff of approximately 500 physicians, 80 residents in pediatrics and pediatric specialties and more than 4,000 employees. The private, nonprofit healthcare facility boasts an internationally renowned reputation for medical breakthroughs and intensive treatments, unique surgical procedures and forward-thinking medical research -- all dedicated to fulfilling the mission of enhancing, sustaining and restoring children's health and development. For more information, visit www.archildrens.org.

Now that you have that fresh cut tree at home, what you do with it will have a major impact on how long it will retain its needles and not become a fire hazard, as you now have a little less than a week to keep a tree fresh that is already on a downhill run. If you haven't put the tree up already, store it in an unheated garage or some other area out of the wind and cold freezing temperatures. Decide where you will place the tree -- hopefully you have thought about this before you chose which tree would fit in your available space. If you're like me, be prepared to cut two to three feet off the tree so it will fit upright in the house. Those trees just don't look as big when they're outside do they? Be sure to choose a spot away from heat sources such as wall furnaces, radiators, air ducts and even TV's. Be sure to place the tree clear of doors. When you decide to bring the tree indoors, make a fresh one-inch cut at the base -- this allows the tree to draw more water -- and place the tree in a tree removal bag. You can use it as a tree skirt and then pull it up around the tree to keep the floor free from needles when it is being taken down. Next place the tree in a sturdy stand that holds at least one gallon of water. A good rule of thumb is one quart of water per every inch of diameter of the trunk. Be sure to keep the water level above the base of the tree. Check the tree daily. If the base dries out, resin will form over the cut end and the tree will not be able to absorb water and will dry out quickly. Care should be used when selecting lights for the tree. Miniature lights produce less heat than large lights and therefore do not dry the tree as rapidly. Be sure to check your tree lights for worn electrical cords. Use UL approved electrical decorations and cords. Be sure to unplug all your lights at night before going to bed. If you follow these tips they should help to make your cut tree experience more enjoyable -- and to have a safe and beautiful Christmas tree to put those presents under. For more information contact your local County Extension office at (870)578-4490.

Is Christmas a Christian holiday? Every year some fight to keep Christ in Christmas, and others fight to keep Christmas off public property. Christmas has become a season to fight the so-called war on Christmas. To the politically correct among us, Christmas is no longer just Christmas. Hanukah is older than Christmas, and I don't know anyone who's against celebrating Hanukah. But we also have Kwanza and Festivus and something called a flying spaghetti monster. Frankly, I don't know anyone who's against celebrating any of these holidays either. Out of all the holidays, the only one that appears to attract opposition is Christmas. Why is that? A few people on the fringe don't like Santa Claus and all the commercialization of Christmas, but they're not the primary opponents of Christmas. Atheists oppose Christmas, particularly if any public entity appears to celebrate or support celebration of Christmas even with Santa songs. That's understandable. Atheists are against so many things and for so few. Businesses are generally united in their support of Christmas even if they refuse to use "Christmas" in their holiday marketing. Retailers traditionally make between 25 to 50 percent of their profits between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Now that's a reason to celebrate! Believers celebrate Christmas to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. No one knows when Jesus was born --- day, month, or year --- but some scholars speculate the Western Church set aside December 25th to commemorate Jesus' birth in the fourth century. I don't know whether anyone opposed celebrating Christmas back then. Why in the world would anyone oppose a group of believers celebrating the birth of the Savior of the world? And, why would they oppose the celebration so vociferously? How could they tolerate celebrations of other holidays while denouncing Christmas? How could they justify vilifying one holiday and not others? At the very heart of Christmas is the Bible's claim that Mary conceived a child with the Holy Spirit, and God took on a human body. Now, that's a pretty fantastic claim! Why is Jesus' birth fundamental to Christian faith? Well, there's bad news and good news about that. The bad news: when Adam sinned in the garden, he condemned all humans to die. The good news: God sent His son to die in the place of all humans. Everybody knows God simply cannot die. And all descendants of Adam have been condemned to die. So we had to have a Savior not born of Adam's line, and that's where the Holy Spirit came in to produce Jesus Christ the God-man. Jesus had to have a human body in which to die as our substitute. That's what this fuss over Christmas is all about! Those who oppose Christmas say that couldn't have happened. Those who commemorate Jesus' birth give thanks to God for his indescribable gift to all mankind. Christmas is a Christian holiday filled with meaning, truth and grace for all believers. May you all enjoy the wonders of Christmas with your family and friends this year. Daniel L. Gardner is a syndicated columnist who lives in Starkville, Miss.

LITTLE ROCK - Farmers and landowners in Arkansas have until Jan. 13 to submit applications to receive cost-share assistance to implement conservation activities through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for the 2012 program year. Applicants can sign up at their local U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service field service center. Individuals and other entities engaged in livestock and/or crop production are eligible to participate in EQIP. Eligible land includes cropland, pasture, private non-industrial forest land, and other farm and ranch lands. The EQIP deadline is for general sign ups. EQIP in Arkansas is specifically designed to address the resource concerns of water quality issues related to animal manure management and sediment, improved management of irrigation water and reduction in ground water use, reduction of erosion, and improvement of wildlife habitat. All applications will be evaluated for funding based on a state developed procedure to optimize environmental benefits. Applications ranking highest in a funding category will be funded subject to availability. A list of eligible conservation practices and how they apply to regular participants or historically underserved participants (beginning, limited resource or socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers) will be posted on the Arkansas NRCS Web site at http://www.ar.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip.html. Most conservation practices in the Arkansas EQIP Payment Schedule are set at 60 percent cost-share with some receiving 75 percent. Some practices have payment caps that cannot be exceeded in a single contract. The 2008 Farm Bill also allows applicants qualifying as historically underserved to receive an additional 25 percent cost-share. However, no applicant can receive more than 90 percent. The Farm Bill also provides advance payments to historically underserved producers, of up to 30 percent of the anticipated costs to be incurred to purchase materials or services to implement a conservation practice. If a contract is cancelled by the participant or terminated because of non-compliance, the NRCS state conservationist may require repayment of cost-shares already paid or a proportion of the payments. For more information, visit http://www.ar.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip.html or contact the local USDA/NRCS field service center 505 Brooks Street in Harrisburg.

Food Giant's "Help Us End Hunger" campaign is helping many in the local community. Now through Dec. 23, area residents may ask an Edwards Food Giant cashier to scan PLU 44552 to donate $10. Edwards Food Giant then will gather and bag items and deliver them to the local food bank. The Food Giant in Harrisburg will be donating items to the Bread of Life Food Pantry at the United Methodist Church in Harrisburg. This will be done in time for Christmas delivery. "Your generosity today will make a difference in someone else's life," a spokesperson said. Donated items include: Best Choice spaghetti, Hunt's pasta sauce, Best Choice pinto beans, Best Choice macaroni and cheese, three cans Best Choice vegetables, Always Save Honey Nut Toasted Oats and Chicken of the Sea chunk light tuna. All of this is an estimated cost of $15. For more information on the program call 870-578-2434.

FORT HOOD, Texas - Before sunrise Saturday morning, Dec. 17, 11 weary members of the Arkansas National Guard's 77th Theater Aviation Brigade stepped off of an aircraft and onto U.S. soil following a deployment in support of Operation New Dawn. The soldiers are the final group of 125 with the Camp Robinson-based 77th Theater Aviation Brigade Headquarters, who originally departed the state for a year-long mobilization on Feb. 17 of this year. The end of U.S. operations in Iraq provided for an early return for the soldiers, with the first wave of 80 troops returning home just prior to Thanksgiving. This final flight also marks the first time since 2003 that all Arkansas Guard units will be home for Christmas. This final wave of returning troops began Dec. 14 with the arrival of 10 soldiers, followed by another eight on Dec. 15. The first group arrived back at Camp Robinson at approximately 8:15 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 18. The Saturday group is slated to hit Arkansas today (Wednesday, Dec. 21) following the demobilization process at Fort Hood. While deployed, the Arkansas soldiers served in Tallil, Iraq, providing corps-level command and control for all aviation assets under the United States Division-South (USD-S). While operations in Iraq have ended, the Arkansas National Guard continues to prepare approximately 3,000 of its soldiers for a potential mobilization to Afghanistan in the summer of 2012.

The Lepanto City Council recently reviewed bids to repair the roofs of city hall, the courtroom and the police station. The council accepted a bid from David Price Construction Company, with the water department paying for half of the repairs to city hall. Mayor Steve Jernigan said the repairs will be done in phases. The council reviewed the operating budget for 2012 and decided to table approving the budget until the January meeting. Mayor Jernigan said the city will lose 11 percent of state turnback money because of the decrease in population shown in the last census. "The biggest unknown is what the price of gas is going to be," Jernigan said. "The price of fuel and repairs have been driving the budget, and that's all over the country. The price of fuel is hurting everyone's budget, and the price of repairs is going up." Mayor Jernigan said a roof has been ordered for the dog pen and that several people have expressed interest in the dog catcher position. He said the dog catcher will be ready to start as soon as the city council figures out the budget for dog control. The council discussed where to take the money from for the $11,000 Jernigan estimates will be needed for the dog control budget. Some ideas discussed included adding to the mosquito spraying fee or keeping the fee the same but making it a dog control fee instead. "I guess it comes down to dogs versus mosquitoes," council member Mary Chaney said. The budget has to be adopted by Feb. 1. In other business, the council: * Accepted the 2010 Legislative Audit Report. * Amended ordinance #434 to clarify that the governing body of the city retains the right to name city parks. * Heard an update on Woodland Street. The mayor said 562 feet of sewer line is damaged from roots entering the pipe joints and that the sewer is hardly working for the block of 14 homes. Vaughn Engineering will provide an estimate to repair the line. * Adopted an ordinance amending the 2011 operating budget. * Voted in favor of taking down the one-way sign on Hugh Avenue.

Cody Allen Blake of Trumann was arrested Dec. 12 and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia with the purpose to manufacture and unlawful distribution of pseudoephedrine. Officers went to 286 Eastside Gardens after receiving a tip that there was drug activity at the residence. After arriving at the house, officers obtained consent to search the residence from Blake. During the search, a bottle was located that contained substances consistent with the manufacture of methamphetamine. Officers learned that Blake had purchased pseudoephedrine pills earlier in the day and, during questioning, he admitted to giving the pills to someone else. Blake's court date is set Feb. 27. On Dec. 15, Kevin Mason and Eric Davis were arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia and the possession of marijuana (Davis only). When an officer pulled over Mason's vehicle, he found an outstanding bench warrant for his arrest. The officer also noticed a strong odor of marijuana coming from the interior compartment of the vehicle and Davis, the passenger in Mason's vehicle, said he had smoked marijuana in the car earlier. Consent to search was granted by Davis, which yielded several plastic baggies with suspected methamphetamine and a glass pipe commonly used to smoke the drug. Davis voluntarily admitted to having a small amount of marijuana on him and neither claimed any knowledge of the suspected methamphetamine that was found. Mason's bond is set for $35,000 and Davis' bond at $250,000. Their court date is Feb. 27.

Mark A. Weston of Harrisburg, a Modern Woodmen of America representative, has attained the Fraternal Insurance Counsellor (FIC) designation. The FIC title is an educational designation that can be earned by career life insurance representatives associated with fraternal insurance societies. Representatives devote more than one year to meet the examination and career development criteria set by the Fraternal Field Managers Association.

Wade Brown, a nine-year-old cancer survivor from Trumann, was one of 70 pediatric cancer patients and families visited by Santa Claus at the annual CARTI Kids Christmas Party held Nov. 20 at the Scimitar Shrine Temple in Little Rock. CARTI Kids attending the Christmas party ranged in age from 2 to 18 years old, coming from all across Arkansas and as far away as Alabama, Missouri and Texas for the celebration. Santa delivered presents to each CARTI Kid and his or her siblings with the assistance of his "elf-for-a-day," Mrs. Arkansas 2012 Michelle Flake of Little Rock. Brown was diagnosed with a Wilms tumor in 2004 at the age of two and received treatment at CARTI/UAMS in Little Rock. Currently a third grader at Cedar Park Elementary, he is the son of Jamie M. Allen of Trumann. CARTI Kids are current and former pediatric cancer patients who serve as a network of support and encouragement to others. "CARTI is the primary radiation therapy provider in Arkansas for the treatment of pediatric cancer patients," said Mary Machen, CARTI director of Community Outreach and CARTI Kids program director. "Having the opportunity to bring these young survivors together each year is the best gift we could ever hope to offer the families of those who are going through, or who have gone through, the cancer diagnosis of a child. "At the CARTI Kids Christmas Party, we celebrate much more than the holidays," Machen continued. "We celebrate survivorship and we celebrate life." The CARTI Kids Christmas Party is funded by proceeds from the CARTI Kids Golf Classic and the CARTI Kids Memorial Trust Fund. To date, the CARTI Kids Golf Classic has raised over $3 million for CARTI pediatric cancer programs and services. In addition to the annual Christmas party, CARTI Kids also participate in other CARTI-sponsored activities throughout the year, such as summer trips and weekend retreats. CARTI is a nonprofit cancer care center with facilities located throughout Arkansas in Little Rock on the St. Vincent, Baptist Medical Center and UAMS campuses, and in Conway, Mountain Home, North Little Rock and Searcy.

The Trumann police department set up all of the gifts to be given to Trumann families through the Lions Club-sponsored Underprivileged Children's Fund. Shown are bags filled with Christmas day goodies for 36 families. The station has already helped distribute 50 bags to help those who cannot afford to give their children Christmas gifts on their own. (DT Photo/JACKIE WILSON)

The last Poinsett County History book came out in 1997. Linda Hinton of the Poinsett County Historical Society said the society is in the process of putting together a new edition and is encouraging community members to write up and send in their family histories. The two volume book will include a history of Poinsett County from the early 1800s to the present day. "Keep in mind, you don't want to forget current history," Hinton said. "We don't think we're history yet, but we'll be history at some point." Hinton spoke to the Marked Tree Rotary Club recently about the book, noting it will include histories of the different communities in Poinsett County, businesses, churches, schools, families and veterans. "We have communities that have disappeared all through Poinsett County," she said. She encouraged people to submit information and photos of lost communities. Hinton said family histories should be written or typed in 600 words or less and should include the date the family came to Poinsett County and interesting family stories. "We want everyone to get a family history in. We want your history, even if you recently moved to the county," Hinton said. Veterans will have a separate section for their pictures and military history. Each family history should also include one photo with a caption, with the name and address of the person sending the information written on the back in pencil. The Historical Society also has family history forms that can be filled out for those who find it difficult to write free-hand. Family histories in the last book were arranged alphabetically, but the ones in the new book will be divided into townships, making the information easier to find. The deadline to get materials in to the Historical Society is Nov. 30, 2012. "You've got a year, but if you're like me, that year goes by fast, so start working on it now. Give yourself plenty of time," Hinton said. Histories can be mailed to: Poinsett County History Book, P.O. Box 504, Harrisburg, AR 72432, or turned into Historical Society members. Each city will have a director to turn histories into and answer questions. Histories can be turned in to Soozi Williams and Mary Ann Arnold in Marked Tree, Linda Hinton in Tyronza, Kay Holiman in Lepanto, Judy Jernigan or Sylvia Evans. The Historical Society meets on the third Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. in the Harrisburg Senior Center.

Pecan gathering can be a hobby for some, but for others it can be a real moneymaker. Cord Needler has been collecting pecans since he was six, and on days when the weather is nice, he can collect 200 to 250 pounds. Needler picks most of his pecans on property owned by Mack Howington in Lepanto. He picks for free and gives half to Howington. Needler then can sell his portion for 75 cents to $1.15 to locals or sometimes up to $3 and $4 for those out of state. (DT Photo/BRIDGET BEAN)

Donnie Taylor of the Trumann Community House Foundation accepts a check from Anthony Patterson of Southern Bancorp for $2,500. The money will go towards the upkeep of the old Trumann Community House. Taylor said Southern Bancorp has been donating money for the past 25 years and these funds help keep the Community House going. He added that a Community House membership is open to anyone in the community at only $10 a year. Also in attendance were Cecilia Parker, TCHF secretary, and Marlene Hanky, TCHF treasurer. (DT Photo/JACKIE WILSON)

Tyronza native Gene Williams, founder and host of the Gene Williams Country Television Show, died unexpectedly Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 14. Harold Gene Williams was born Jan. 3, 1938, in Tyronza to Rubel and Elease Hughes Williams. His grandparents were James Albert and Unis Williams and Robert and Elizabeth Hughes. Williams grew up and attended school in Dyess, where his schoolmates included the country music legend Johnny Cash. Williams' 50-plus-year career in country music began as a DJ for KWAM in West Memphis in 1957. In 1961, he was named the Grand Ole Opry DJ of the year. The Gene Williams Country Junction Show began its live broadcast in 1963 on the new Jonesboro television station KAIT-8. A special on the station's 30th anniversary several years ago credited Williams' show with helping the new station stay on the air, since it was the show that generated the bulk of advertising revenue. Williams and the Country Junction Band opened tours for the Johnny Cash Show, which included Carl Perkins, the Carter Family and the Statler Brothers. One of these tours included the famous recording of Folsom Prison Blues live in Folsom Prison. Williams also was an entrepreneur and promoter. Over the years he had owned and operated movie theaters in several Arkansas communities. He also owned and operated KHAM radio in Horseshoe Bend, where his live country music shows featured country stars such as Bill Monroe, Dolly Parton, Johnny Paycheck, Ernest Tubb, Roy Acuff, Carl Smith and Mickey Gilley, to name a few. Williams also was editor and publisher of the former Mid-South Trucker's News and Ozark News. His Gene Williams House of Talent was the booking agent for many Grand Ole Opry stars of the 1960-70's and included such artists as Jack Greene, Del Reeves, Johnny Carver, Ronnie Sessions, Claude King and Tommy Cash. He also was a distributor for Lucas Oil Products. Williams and Forrest Lucas, the founder of Lucas Oil, had a friendship and business association for over 20 years. Lucas Oil Products was the main sponsor of Williams' television show. The Gene Williams Country Music Television show was taped live in Branson, Mo., and has been aired on 173 stations in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Ed McMahon, of the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, was a friend and announcer for the show until his death. The show featured Branson performers and country stars such as Mickey Gilley, Johnny Lee, Roy Clark, the Oak Ridge Boys and many others. The show was the recipient of four 2007 Telly Awards. His endeavors in the music industry resulted in his being named to the George D. Hay (founder of the Grand Ole Opry) Music Hall of Fame. Williams had the distinction of having eight different days proclaimed "Gene Williams Day" by five different Arkansas governors, including former President Bill Clinton. He mixed his love of country music and politics by providing musical entertainment for the political rallies of such diverse candidates as Winthrop Rockefeller and Justice Jim Johnson. Williams had invested heavily in the Dyess community in recent years to help preserve the rich history of the area. He made major contributions to help restore the Dyess Colony Community Building. A street in the town bears his name, and he currently was serving as a city council member. While country music was his passion, he also had a strong love for Arkansas Razorbacks basketball and the L.A. Dodgers. Williams was predeceased by his parents. Surviving him are his two sons, Glen (Donna) Williams of Dallas and Robert Williams of Little Rock; four daughters, Debbie (Bo) Plyler of Little Rock, Donna (Stan) Barrett of Memphis, Gena (Shaun) Wright of Haworth, Okla., and Jackye Palmer of Benton; 10 grandchildren, Kathryn Williams of Napa, Calif., Megan Williams of Dallas, Blake and Anna Kathleen Plyler of Little Rock, Austin Barrett of Memphis, Gage Williams of Little Rock, Britton, KateLeigh and Grayson Wright of Haworth, Okla., and Will Palmer of Broken Bow, Okla. Also surviving him are his brother, Jimmy (Billie) Williams of Marion and Judy (Jerry) Jernigan of Osceola, numerous relatives, friends and long-time family/business friend, Leroy Ware of McAlmont. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, in the chapel of Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock. Burial was at Potter's Cemetery in Lepanto. Memorials may be made to donor's charity of choice.

The Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce announced its has donated $8,775 to the Harrisburg community over the last year. Some of funds distributed include a donation of $850 for a beauty review building for the Poinsett County fairgrounds, a $200 donation to the Department of Human Services for foster children Christmas gifts and $100 for the Bread of Life food pantry. Maura Morgan said that along with the Chamber's donation to the Food for Kids program, $1,275 was raised for the local community. Other organizations such as the Women's Club and Rotary, added to donations from Food Giant and community members, allow children in the area to be given food to sustain them over the Christmas break. "The Rice Depot normally gives food to the program, but they were low this year," said Morgan. "Thanks to these efforts, children who need food over the break will have it." The Chamber also donated to the Christmas for Harrisburg Families Fund. The chamber gave $250 and Food Giant matched another $250. All of the money went to buy necessities like socks, shoes and underwear, along with a few gifts like diaries, games and bead making kits, to local families in need. A total of three families and five children were taken care of through this fund. The Chamber also agreed to donate $100 to the CYS book drive, which is taking place today (Dec. 22) from 1 to 3 p.m. All of the money will go towards a new library. New Chamber board members also were announced this week. Erin Baker, Tammie Stanford and Mark Weston will serve a three-year term on the board of directors. Weston will move up from vice president to president for 2012 and Rachel Morgan will be the new vice president. In other action, the board: * announced the winners of the 2011 Harrisburg Christmas decorating contest. Allen and Tiffany Brown won first place, Joseph Miller won second and Angie Doorman won third. Each of the winners received a plaque in honor of their Christmas spirit. * accepted the donation of a projector to be split with the Rotary Club, given by David Owens. * set the 2012 Auction and Banquet for March 30.

Arkansas State Representative Clark Hall initiated the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee, which has worked through the governor's office to get over a half million dollars to help pay off the $13.8 million boll weevil eradication debt owed by farmers. Pictured, from left, are: Cal McCastlain, attorney for the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee; Laudies Brantley, Boll Weevil Eradication Committee board member; Daryl Little, State Plant Board director; Governor Mike Beebe; Rep. Buddy Lovell; Rep. Clark Hall, and Rep. Homer Linderman with the check for $750,000. (Courtesy photo)

LITTLE ROCK -- Amanda Sobel Driver, education coordinator for the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, will present "History Happened in Arkansas?: National Historic Landmarks of Arkansas" to students at the Harrisburg School District's Weiner Campus on Jan. 6. Driver will show students a program on Arkansas properties that have been designated National Historic Landmarks, a status reserved only for those properties with transcendent importance in the history of the United States. For more information, write AHPP, 1500 Tower Building, 323 Center Street, Little Rock, AR 72201, call Driver at 501-324-9880 or send an email to amandad@aransasheritage.org The AHPP is the agency of the Department of Arkansas Heritage responsible for identifying, evaluating, registering and preserving the state's cultural resources. Other agencies are the Arts Council, the Delta Cultural Center, the Old State House Museum, the Natural Heritage Commission, the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center and the Historic Arkansas Museum.

The Trumann, Lepanto and Tyronza government offices will be closed Friday, Dec. 30, and Monday, Jan. 2, for the New Years holiday. Marked Tree government offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 2.

With the official start of winter last week, the professional medics at American Medical Response (AMR) remind everyone that plunging temperatures could pose a threat to life and limb. This is especially true for the elderly, small children, the chronically ill, substance-abusers and individuals who stay out in the cold for long periods. AMR suggests these tips to help avoid two potentially dangerous conditions, hypothermia and frostbite. Both can happen even in areas known for warm weather, especially when wind chill and the possibility of getting wet in cold water or rain are involved. * To avoid hypothermia and frostbite, wear clothing in layers. Layers of clothes provide much more protection than one thick garment. The layer closest to the body should be thin and made of polyester or similar material to pull moisture from your skin. The next layers should be bulkier, providing more insulation. Wool is a good insulating material, as are newer materials such as polyester pile. When you're outdoors, the outer layer should resist rain, sleet or snow and have zippers for venting body heat if you become too warm. * Wear a hat. Forty percent of body heat escapes through the head. * Wear mittens rather than gloves because mittens keep hands warmer. * Immediately remove any clothing that gets wet. In cold weather, elderly people should be checked on frequently because age can weaken the body's ability to sense and adapt to temperature changes. Hypothermia is a general cooling of the body's internal temperature. Hypothermia victims go through stages of shivering, numbness, confusion and drowsiness before becoming unconscious. Unless emergency aid is provided, death can follow. First aid for hypothermia includes removing the person from the cold setting. Give CPR if needed. Remove wet clothes and wrap the patient in warm materials. If the victim is alert, give them warm non-alcoholic drinks. Never give anything by mouth to someone who is less than fully alert. Frostbite is the freezing of a body part, most often the fingers, toes, ears or nose. The part often feels hard and waxy and may be discolored. First aid for frostbite includes removing the person from the cold setting. Handle the injured area gently to protect it from further injury and wrap it in dry, sterile dressing. Do not rub the frostbitten area and do not allow the victim to try to use the injured area, such as walking on frostbitten toes. Never put ice on frostbite. Re-warm the frostbitten body part only if medical care is remote or unavailable. After re-warming, keep the injury from re-freezing. When hypothermia or frostbite is suspected, call for help from your local ambulance service immediately. American Medical Response Inc. (www.amr.net), America's leading provider of medical transportation, provides services in 40 states and the District of Columbia. More than 18,500 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals, with a fleet of 4,100 vehicles, transport more than three million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. AMR, a subsidiary of Emergency Medical Services Corporation, is headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colo.

Christmas has passed and hopefully you got everything you wanted. New Years is fast approaching and you're probably in the mood to clean up before going back to work after the holidays. One question that always arises this time of year -- besides where to put all the toys from last year to make room for this years crop -- is, "What can I do with this dried up tree?" Well the good news is you have many options. Undecorated trees are an excellent source for fish habitat in ponds or lakes. If you don't have a pond or lake, then think about placing the tree in your back yard and decorating it with popcorn, bread and suet for the birds. Many communities will pick up trees after Christmas and shred them into chips for landscaping projects. If you don't have a community pickup, then take them to a community lot, where trees are collected for disposal. For more information contact your Poinsett County Extension office: (870)578-4490.

Arkansas State Parks are part of an effort among parks around the nation to issue invitations to everyone to join family and friends for a trek along a state park trail closest to home on Jan. 1 as a healthy way to launch 2012. First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Mass. The initiative targeted the first of January -- the start of a new year -- to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and the year-round recreation that can be experienced locally in state parks. Through the years, other states have joined this health initiative by also offering First Day Hikes and other outdoor recreation programs on New Year's Day. Jan. 1, 2012, will mark the first time all 50 state park systems will join together to sponsor First Day Hikes, according to the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) and America's State Parks (www.americasstateparks.org), an alliance launched by the NASPD to advocate for the healthful and economic benefits provided by the 50 state park systems across the nation. America's State Parks invites the public to enjoy free, guided First Day Hikes on New Year's Day 2012 at local state parks. According to Arkansas State Parks director Greg Butts, "State parks around Arkansas will join Americas State Parks' nationwide invitation to the public to enjoy First Day Hikes by offering individuals and families the opportunity to begin the new year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Jan. 1. "Enjoying a state park trail is a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature, and welcome the New Year with family and friends," he added. Butts noted that Arkansas's state park system includes 137 trails totaling 370 miles. "Explore a trail on your own, or join a state park interpreter on a guided hike. Our interpreters will connect you to the beauty and history found in the parks, and you'll enjoy shared experiences that will make memories to last a lifetime. "Diversity is the hallmark of Arkansas's state park system, and that is certainly represented in the variety of trail experiences to be enjoyed in our parks," said Butts. Arkansas State Parks trails range in length from short nature walks to overnight backpacking adventures. Trails lead hikers through rugged, scenic terrain in Arkansas's two mountain ranges, the Ozarks and the Ouachitas. Trails stretch along the shores of Arkansas's great lakes and into bottomlands teeming with wildlife. Hikers can follow the banks of renowned rivers including wild and scenic streams. Trail enthusiasts can explore state historic sites and Arkansas's diamond site. Barrier-free trails accommodate the needs of visitors with disabilities. And among this wide variety of trails are nationally-designated trails. In addition to walking and hiking trails, the state park system also includes biking, equestrian, river and off highway vehicle trails. There are even trails on the water. Arkansas State Parks' First Day Hikes on Jan. 1 will be held at the following state parks: * Bull Shoals-White River State Park (Bull Shoals) -- Big Bluff Trail from 10 a.m. to noon. * Davidsonville Historic State Park (Pocahontas) -- Black River Trail from 2 to 3 p.m. * Devil's Den State Park (West Fork) -- Devil's Den Trail from 2 to 4 p.m. * Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area (Rogers) -- Shaddox Hollow Trail from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Ozark Plateau Trail from 2 to 2:30 p.m. * Jacksonport State Park (Jacksonport) -- Tunstall Riverwalk Trail from 10 to 11 a.m. * Lake Fort Smith State Park (Mountainburg) -- Ozark Highlands Trail from 9 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a potluck lunch brought by the trail hike participants (RSVP to the park is requested). * Millwood State Park (Ashdown) -- Wildlife Lane Trail from 11 to 12:30 p.m. * Mississippi River State Park (Marianna) -- Bear Creek Lake Nature Trail from 2 to 2:45

JONESBORO - Girl Scouts in the region will be ringing in the New Year by putting their entrepreneurial and leadership skills to work through the Girl Scout Cookie Program. January 2012 marks the beginning of the 100th anniversary of the organization, and Girl Scouts of all ages will be celebrating with cookies. Girls will begin taking orders for these "cookies with a mission" on Jan. 14 and continue through Jan. 29. The cost of the cookies will remain $3.50 per box with proceeds supporting local troops and programs for the girls. The classics such as Do-si-Dos, Dulce de Leche, Samoas, Tagalongs, Thank You Berry Munch, Thin Mints and Trefoils will return, along with a new flavor that is sure to be a favorite among cookie enthusiasts. In honor of the 100th anniversary, Girl Scouts is introducing a new cookie called Savannah Smiles that will take the place of the Lemon Chalet Crèmes from previous years. Savannah Smiles will help commemorate the rich history of Girl Scouting by honoring the birthplace of the organization, Savannah, Ga., and by reminding everyone of that world-famous "Brownie Smile." As in previous years, Girl Scout cookies remain trans fat free. The cookie program is an important part of the Girl Scout leadership experience. "Through Girl Scouting, girls learn to be leaders in their daily lives and prepare for bright futures. The Girl Scout cookie program is a great way to help girls develop five key skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics," explains Diamonds Council CEO, Denise Stewart. For nearly 100 years, the Girl Scout cookie program has proven to be a successful tool in promoting leadership among girls, while encouraging creativity and fun. "Girl Scouts are part of a team during the cookie sale, all working towards a common goal, with all girls striving to do their best." Stewart notes. "Girls are able to earn money towards fun and exciting Girl Scout activities, as well as, contribute to their Council's ability to provide Girl Scouting in the community." As the organization embarks on its 100th anniversary, it is important to note that the cookie program has been around for most of its existence. In 1917, five years after Juliette Gordon Low founded Girl Scouts, members of an Oklahoma troop began baking cookies in their kitchens to sell at their school cafeteria as a way to raise money for their activities. As early as the 1930s, Girl Scouts were selling commercially-baked cookies in that now-famous Trefoil shape. "The Girl Scout cookie program is the largest girl-led business in the country and generates immeasurable benefits for girls, their Councils and communities nationwide. Girls set cookie goals to support their chosen activities for the year, to fund community service and leadership projects, to attend camp, to travel near and far, and to provide events for girls in their community," said Stewart. For individuals who are not cookie fans but want to support Girl Scouts, there are the Gift of Caring and Cookies to Troops programs which allow consumers to donate boxes of Girl Scout cookies to good causes. Gift of Caring benefits a cause that the specific troop has chosen, such as a children's home, animal shelter, etc. When consumers purchase cookies for Gift of Caring, the Girl Scout troop will deliver the boxes of cookies to the chosen location(s). Cookies to Troops is the council-wide Gift of Caring initiative, which is structured as a virtual donation. Through the Cookies to Troops initiative, consumers may purchase cookies and the Girl Scouts -- Diamonds Council bakers, Little Brownie Bakers, will coordinate the shipment of donated cookies to approved military bases overseas. "When you purchase Girl Scout Cookies, you are not only indulging in a delightful treat, but you are helping girls learn valuable skills and create bonds that will last them a lifetime," Stewart said. "Girl Scout Cookies can help provide aid to flood victims, small comfort to the terminally ill and education to those in need, just to name a few. What can a Samoa or Thin Mint really do? More than you can see!" For more information on purchasing cookies, contact the local Girl Scout office at (800)

The Harrisburg Water and Gas Division of the City of Harrisburg is offering a rebate program for new customers and existing customers who convert from another type of energy fuel (electricity or propane) to natural gas. "The program is designed to help with the cost of converting to natural gas. However, if an existing customer wants to update existing natural gas appliances, we can help with part of that cost," a department spokesperson said. To qualify for the rebate program the customer must complete an application form, supply a receipt of purchase and allow a representative of the city to inspect the installed appliance to compare the information on the application and information found on the appliance. This offer is good for a period of six months after the purchase of the appliance. The following rebates will be offered: * $400 furnace * $350 tankless water heater * $250 standard water heater * $150 range/cookstove with gas oven * $150 clothes dryer * $100 cook top * $50 gas logs/ventless heater/infrared heater Second like appliance will be eligible for half of the above amounts. Third like appliances will be eligible for a fourth of the above amounts. Some restrictions apply. Existing customers who want to update their existing natural gas appliances listed above will be eligible for half of the amounts offered for conversion. This offer is not connected with any supplier and no recommendation will be made by the City of Harrisburg as to brand, type, vendor or price range. Installation shall be completed at the customers cost and must meet state codes. The City of Harrisburg reserves the right to suspend or change this program at any time without notice. For further information, contact: Harrisburg Water and Gas Division at 201 North Main St, Harrisburg, AR or call 870-578-5461.

Sherry McMunn is the 2011 recipient of Ritter Communications' Larry B. Dinkins Eagle Ward, according to an announcement by Vice President of Operations Support Systems, Becky Smith. "A wise person once told me, 'If you surround yourself with people who have strength of character built around honesty, kindness, integrity and passion, you will always feel confident that you are moving yourself and your team in the right direction,'" Smith said. "Sherry has all of these traits and then some." McMunn, who is the Operations Support Administrator, has been with Ritter Communications for 12 years. Prior to her current position, she was Residential Supervisor of Customer Support. "When Sherry's current position became available, she stepped up to the challenge and was transferred to the Operations Support division," Smith noted. "Sherry began to learn all she could about our business units and their functions, and she soon became an expert in everything from system set-up and end user training to conversion of databases." McMunn and her husband, Scott, live in Marked Tree. They have two children, Seth and Skylar, who are both in college. The Eagle Award originated in 2004 to honor a much-admired and well-respected Ritter colleague, Larry B. Dinkins, who was an avid bird watcher with a special affinity for the bald eagle. His unexpected passing left an indelible impression on the Ritter family thanks to his uncompromising personality, feverish commitment to customer service and the exceptionally high performance standards he demanded, both from himself and the team around him. Ritter Communications began providing phone service in Northeast Arkansas in 1906. Ritter's residential and business services include local and long distance phone service, cable television and high speed Internet, as well as customized business communications systems and services, including web and e-mail hosting, custom networking, virtual services, hosted applications and remote data back-up services. For more information, visit www.getritter.info.

Some of the top New Year's resolutions this year include spending more time with family and friends, achieving a higher level of fitness and dropping pounds. All of these goals are achievable, but most lose faith early because no plan was put into place. The U.S. official website, at http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New-Years-Resolutions.shtml, offers a great ideas to help with New Year's planning. The website gives tips and research on popular New Year's resolution ideas to better help achieve that New Year's goal. Articles can be found on drinking less alcohol, eating healthier foods, improving your education and career, weight, debt and stress management, recycling projects, saving money, taking trips and even how to quit smoking. One article provided gives ten tips to eating healthier on a tight budget. For example, one way to stretch a dollar is to include meals like stews and casseroles with fresh, healthy foods. Another tip is to buy fresh fruits and vegetables in season, as they will be more expensive out of season. Some debt tips linked to the site include creating a budget for the family that will track the money you take in and spend. Another tip is to contact creditors to try and set up a modified payment plan that can reduce payments to a more manageable level. Researching an upcoming New Year's goal can help set out a plan that might make the goal easier and more realistic to reach. The website can also be used to give ideas life improving goals for a 2012 resolution, if one has not been made yet.

Three Trumann residents were arrested Dec. 7 for manufacturing meth. According to police, Patrolman Kevin Holt received an anonymous tip that drugs were being manufactured at 532 Edgerton Street in Trumann. Patrolman Holt, Sergeant Lenny Becker, Chief Tony Rusher, Detective Eric Willbanks and Detecive Anthony Parker went to the residence to make contact. After several attempts with no response, officers allegedly found evidence in plain view of the manufacturing process. After obtaining a search warrant, police say they entered the house and found Charles Gosa, 27, Matthew Maggard, 24, and Sheila Williams, 36, hiding in the bedroom. According to the report, a search of the house yielded a one-pot method meth lab and components to manufacture and use the drug. The three were charged with manufacturing methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a church, possession of drug paraphernalia with purpose to manufacture, and possession of drug paraphernalia with purpose to use. Bond was set at $50,000 for Gosa and $150,000 each for Maggard and Williams. Their court date is Jan. 30. On Dec. 8, Myles Armstrong, 20, of 201 Melody, Trumann, was arrested and charged with forgery after the Jonesboro Police Department alerted Trumann police to a stolen check being cashed at a local bank. According to the report, Detective Parker learned that Armstrong cashed the stolen check at Southern Bancorp. Armstrong allegedly admitted to cashing the check during an interview with police. He was released on his own recognizance. His court date is Jan. 30.

The Harrisburg Senior Center participants showed off their beanbag baseball skills Tuesday, Dec. 27, at the Harrisburg Juvenile Treatment Center. (DT Photo/JACKIE WILSON)

The Elm Lodge had its annual Christmas feast and installation program Thursday, Dec. 22, in Marked Tree. Rosemary Nichols headed the feast, and there were approximately 50 people in attendance. After the meal, installation of officers for the 2012 year took place. Brother Hershel Wright of West Memphis Lodge served as the Installing Marshal and Brother Drew Price of Elm Lodge served as the Marshal of Ceremonies. The Masonic Fraternity includes Blue Lodge Masons, Scottish Rite Masons and York Rite Masons. The Masonic Fraternity is a charitable organization that contributes more than $5,000,000 to persons in need.

Ben Kittler with the Arkansas State Land Surveyor's Office recently spoke to the Marked Tree Rotary Club about the history of land surveying in Arkansas. Kittler said the surveying of the Louisiana Purchase began in Arkansas. President James Monroe commissioned Prospect Robbins and Joseph Brown to survey the Louisiana Purchase in 1815. "They filled a barge and headed south down the Mississippi River," Kittler said. "When they hit the confluence of the St. Francis River and the Mississippi River, they let Joseph Brown out to find out the meridian and do a cardinal west line as the base line." This baseline forms the northern border of Phillips County. "Prospect Robbins then continued then continued South to the confluence of the Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers to determine the latitude line and go north," Kittler said. With one surveyor moving west and the other moving north, their lines intersected on Oct. 27, 1815, forming the Northeast corner of what is now Phillips County. With these two lines established, the rest of the state was surveyed from river to river. The entire state was subdivided between 1815 and 1859. Kittler said he has contracts with 32 land surveyors across the state and that the state surveyor's office also finances surveying books. This year helped finance "U.S. Public Survey System for Arkansas" to give young surveyors background knowledge for exam work. Kittler said the purpose of the book was "to teach young surveyors to survey the right way. With the invention of GPS, we've produced a group of professional measurers, not professional surveyors."

Dr. Angela Howell came to speak to the Trumann rotary about her new clinic and gave information on glaucoma. Howell is a graduate of Southern College of Optometry in Memphis and has been in practice for over 15 years. Howell also works at two other locations in Piggott and in Paragould. Her office in Trumann is located at 807 W. Main Street and she works Monday and Wednesday at that location. Along with Howell, Hayden Sowers, a board-certified optometric physician, also works at the Trumann location. "We opened in August and couldn't be happier here," said Howell. Howell stays busy with her clinic work, but also is a member of the Lions Club and has taken three trips, two to Costa Rica, to help deliver over 1,000 glasses to children. Howell also has two sons and currently lives in Piggott. Howell sees many eye problems in her line of work, but one eye problem she emphasized at the rotary meeting was glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye disorder that leads to the damage of the optic nerve. Permanently vision damage can be sustained from glaucoma if left untreated. Howell said that glaucoma is one of the major causes of blindness in people over 40 and that certain groups of people like those with a family history of glaucoma, those who are diabetic, African Americans and nearsighted have a higher chance of having glaucoma problems. She also said that African Americans were four times more likely to go blind from their glaucoma problems. "Eighty percent of glaucoma problems occur because of the drainage system in the eye," said Howell. "Fluid in the eye drains too slowly, which builds pressure and damages the optic nerve." This form of glaucoma can normally be treated with pills or eye drops, which help with the drainage and pressure buildup. Conventional surgery can also be used if the less invasive measures do not work. Although there are treatments available many do not use the resources simply because they do not know they have glaucoma. "It can go untreated at first because it is a gradual process, but once the damage is done it cannot be reversed," said Howell. "An eye exam is the only way to know. During the exam we check the patients field of vision and the pressure level in their eye." Howell suggests that those who are 40 and over, especially those in the higher case groups, should have their eye checked every one to two years. For more information on glaucoma, visit Dr. Howell's website at www.drangelahowell.com/eye_care/index.html or to make an eye appointment call 870-483-0096.

The Marked Tree Board of Education recognized two achievements at this month's board meeting. High School principal Matt Wright said the University of Arkansas called to inform him that Marked Tree has the fastest growing percentage of African-Americans enrolling in Advanced Placement courses in the entire state. Marked Tree High School also is one of the only schools in the state whose AP enrollment actually matches or exceeds its demographics. Wright said the district currently offers six AP classes -- calculus, biology, two history classes and two English classes -- and hopes to add a section of AP chemistry next semester. The board also recognized current board president Lee Whitfield, who received the Pinnacle Award from the Arkansas School Boards Association in Little Rock for completing 200 hours of continuing education through workshops, seminars or other board develop activities. "This is an achievement," board member Mike Dabney said. "It shows a commitment to the school and a commitment to the good of the kids." The board also recognized Anna Trego, who teaches high school science and is head of the Community Service Club. Trego said one of the things she tries to impress upon her students is that science is not just memorizing facts. It is about asking questions and looking for the answers. Through discovery projects and peer learning, Trego has succeeded in getting her students excited about science. Speaking of her first year teaching at Marked Tree, Trego said she feels she is "learning more from the students than I could possibly teach them." The board heard an update from Superintendent Annesa Thompson regarding the Nu-Tech network. She said Marked Tree has been accepted into the Nu-Tech network and is waiting for a June announcement to see if the district will receive a grant to help move in that direction. Nu-Tech schools are grounded in project-based learning where multiple skills are taught through projects, instead of through lecture as stand-alone skills, to help show students the relevance of the skills. Thompson said the district hopes to incorporate the program in grades seven and eight if it is able to move in that direction. The board also approved entering into a fire monitoring contract for the new fire alarm system. The monitoring has an annual fee of $495 per building a year.

Jonesboro mayor Harold Perrin announced last week the city of Jonesboro has set aside $100,000 in the City of Jonesboro Community Development Block Grant 2012 Action Plan to help build a Miracle League field for Northeast Arkansas. According to the budget, the funds will go toward construction of a Southside Ballpark softball field specifically designed for the physically and mentally challenged. The field will allow handicapped children and adults to participate in organized sports. The funding will contribute to the city's total renovation of the field and specially designed playground equipment for handicapped children. The tentative opening date was announced for the summer of 2013. Peggy McCall, executive director of the Miracle League in Arkansas, met with Perrin earlier this year in the hope of building a new Miracle League field near Jonesboro. The Miracle League is 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 will 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. In the fall of 2006, the field was opened, and soon McCall began working on expanding into Northwest Arkansas. In 2009, the Springdale field was opened with help from many from McCall's former youth group. With $700,000, two fields and a playground were added in Northwest Arkansas. Just this past year, McCall organized raising funds 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 the 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 that is enough to justify the expense of the project." McCall hopes to get the Jonesboro Rotary involved, as well as outlying Rotary clubs, like 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 with 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." Perrin has traveled to the Springdale field already to see their recently finished field and plans to make the Jonesboro field bigger. With the field located in Jonesboro, other cities, like those in Poinsett County, and even Memphis, will have easy access to the field, allowing more children with disabilities to have a fun and safe place to play.

Elm Lodge #766 in Marked Tree held a potluck last week to change leadership for the new year and to show off the new chairs they recently purchased as part of an ongoing effort to remodel the lodge. "We got the chairs because we've had a revival of interest in the lodge locally in the past few years," said Drew Price. Price noted they have been steadily remodeling the building and the new chairs are part of that. "In the Masons we have a lot of ritual and ceremony," Price said. "We have a lot of Biblical symbolism. King Solomon is an important figure for us, and we wanted some appropriate chairs. I think we ended up with the nicest chairs in Northeast Arkansas." Outgoing Worshipful Master Jackie Ragan passed the baton of senior officer to Scott McMunn. "It has been an absolute pleasure and honor for me to serve the past year," Ragan said. "I couldn't think of a better person to turn the gavel to other than Scott McMunn. Scott is my brother and great friend, and I know he will be a great leader for this lodge." Ragan said his goal for 2011 had been "to bring as many people into the lodge as possible. I believe doing so will show the public we are not a secret organization." Ragan thanked Jerry Wood, "without whom I might not have ever joined the lodge," he said. "The morals and ethics he lives by is what inspired me to ask him about the lodge." Ragan also thanked Bobby Austin and Drew Price, saying of Price, "I don't know what I would have done without his counsel over the past year."

The Trumann trash war is still going strong. Complaints have been pouring into the city office from customers who have once again waited over two weeks to have their trash picked up. Reports have come primarily from the neighborhoods behind the KFC on Speedway, continuing down East Speedway past the railroad tracks. Residents began circulating a petition in the unkempt neighborhoods on Tuesday, Dec. 20, demanding better service. Pictured is a resident's garbage on Wayne Street, where there have been several complaints over trash not being picked up over the two-week period.

The halls of East Poinsett County (EPC) High School rang with the sounds of simulated shots last week as officers with the Lepanto Police Department and the Poinsett County Sheriff's Department went through an active shooter training class. The two-day class involved a classroom portion on the first day, which went over basic tactics, team movements, and historical events such as the Columbine and Westside shootings, while the second day involved reality-based training scenarios in the school where officers put what they learned into practice. The training is called ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) and was developed in San Marcos, Texas, in 2002. "In 26 years, it's the best class I've ever taken. It brings everything to reality," Captain David Layman of the Lepanto Police Department said. Chief Deputy Kevin Molder with the Poinsett County Sheriff's Department taught the class. He is a certified ALERRT instructor and has taught at the Law Enforcement Training Academy in Pocahontas and the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in Camden. "No other training has matched this thus far. The best thing about the training is that it's as close to real life as possible. It gets the officers ready to see how they'll react under stress," Molder said. During the reality-based training portion of the class, officers took turns running through different scenarios in four-man teams. Each team entered the school and searched rooms for bad guys, one of whom was played by Layman. They used simunition guns similar to paintball guns except that the weapons function the same as the Glocks officers use on active duty. In addition to navigating the school under pressure and dealing with front and rear threats, the officers had to deal with students role-playing as innocent bystanders running from their captors. Students Casey Simmons, Lacui Welch and Whitney Walling role-played in different scenarios, including lying on the ground "injured" or running away from their captors screaming before the shooting started. The training is designed to teach officers how to deal with active shooters in a school, church or mall. "We appreciate that the school allowed us to come and use their building," Layman said. "That brings it into a more realistic situation. You can sit and read a book about this stuff, but that's not the same. Hogan's alleys and firing ranges don't compare to this." "Everybody trained since 2009 that leaves the academy receives this training," Molder said. "We're training the guys who graduated prior to that." Molder said that since 2009, all the officers in Arkansas have gotten on the same page regarding this training. "If the Sheriff's department responds with police, they can coordinate together. Everyone has the same training," he said. At the end of the day, with spent simulation rounds strewn throughout the halls, all the officers who had run through the training agreed on two things: they had learned a lot, and they had enjoyed themselves immensely.

Thelma Jean Hilburn Hacker, 84, of Portia, Ark., died Monday, Dec. 12, 2011, at the Five Rivers Medical Center in Pocahontas, Ark. Born Jan. 10, 1927 at Black Rock, Ark., she was the daughter of the late James Homer and Dora Swindle Hilburn and had been a long-time area resident. Mrs. Hacker had been a member of the Church of Christ for 69 years and at the Portia congregation since 1976. She enjoyed music, sewing, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. She is survived by three brothers, Billy Joe Hilburn and James Danny Hilburn of Portia and Jerry Lee Hilburn of Walnut Ridge, Ark.; two sisters, Reva Dean Doyle of Pocahontas, Ark., and Sharon Rose Turner of Imboden, Ark.; several nieces and nephews and a host of other family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Johnny Clay Hilburn. Funeral services were 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011, at the Portia Church of Christ with Mr. Robert Davis and Mr. Gerald Fears officiating. Burial was in Oak Forest Cemetery in Black Rock, Ark., under the direction of Faith Funeral Service of Manila, Ark. The family received visitors Thursday, Dec. 15, from noon until time of service at the church. Pallbearers were Bobby Turner, Jamie White, Kenny Doyle, Tommy Hilburn, Buddy Hilburn, and Jeff Medcalf.

Mr. Herman Utah McDaniel, 85, of Lake City, Ark., left this world to go to his heavenly home on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011, at the Lakeside Nursing Home. Mr. McDaniel was born Dec. 5, 1926, in Big Creek, Ark., to the late John and Hattie Mae Sea Perry. Mr. McDaniel was a member of the Church of God in Lake City and a former truck driver where he was accident free for over 60 years. He enjoyed gardening, truck driving, talking on the c.b. radio and spending time with his family and friends. He is survived by four daughters, Judy Russell of Lake City, Shirley Culbertson and husband Bill of Bald Knob, Ark., Brenda Croft of Kansas City, Mo., and Linda Miles of Grand Rapids, Mich.; two daughters-in-law, Shirley McDaniel of Lake City and Connie McDaniel of Cadillac, Mich.; one sister, Evelyn McKinley of Brownstown, Mich. Mr. McDaniel also leaves several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Herman McDaniel, Jr. and Ernest Roy McDaniel; one daughter, Mary Jean Basinger; two sons-in-law, David Russell and Carl Croft. Funeral services were 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at the Church of God in Lake City with Pastor Carl Edge officiating. Burial was in the Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Faith Funeral Service of Manila, Ark. The family received visitors from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the church Friday, Dec. 23.

Kinley Faith Wilbanks, infant daughter of John and Kathryn Simpson Wilbanks, was born and died Dec. 18, 2011, at the NEA Baptist Hospital in Jonesboro, Ark. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Riley Wilbanks of the home; grandparents, Larry Wilbanks of Althelstan, Ark., Janet Field of Manila, Ark., and Josh and Jennifer Simpson of Manila, Ark. Funeral services were 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ at Carroll's Corner Arkansas with the Rev. Tommy Wilbanks officiating. Interment was in Manila Cemetery under the direction of Faith Funeral Service. The family received visitors at the church from 1-2 p.m.

TRUMANN - Mr. James Baker, 76, of Trumann died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011, at NEA Baptist Hospital in Jonesboro, Ark. He was born in Jamestown, Ark., and had lived in Trumann for the past eight years and was formerly of Springfield, Mo. He managed a clothing store, was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, served in Vietnam and was of the Presbyterian faith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen E. and Dessie O. Barnes Baker. Survivors include his wife, Joy K. Cox Baker of the home; one daughter, Cathy R. Drew of Batesville, Ark.; two sons, David A. Baker of Hennessee Ark., and Donald E. Baker of Phoenix, Ariz.; four step-daughters, C.K. Dale, Janie Amos, Jackie Lofton and Linda D. Church, all of Springfield, Mo.; two step-sons, Ronald Church and Steve Church, both of Springfield, Mo., six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Private burial will be in Nettleton Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. An online register book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net

TRUMANN - Mrs. Geraldine Kate Fleming, 86, of Trumann, Ark., died Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro, Ark. She was born in Kansas City, Kans., and had lived in Trumann since 1961 and was formerly of Union, Mo. She was a housewife and a member of the First Christian Church in Trumann. She was preceded in death by her husband, Horace F. "H.F." Fleming; one great-grandson, Andy Arens, and was the daughter of the late John and Lela Kate Lindsey Sturman. Survivors include two daughters, Cathy Johnson of Winfred, S.D., and Tammy Stanley of Bay; four sons, Philip Fleming of Trumann, Craig Fleming of Russellville, and Mark Fleming and Tim Fleming, both of Jonesboro; 12 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. Funeral service was Wednesday morning, Dec. 21, at 10 a.m. in the chapel of Thompson Funeral Home with Rev. Leonard Harp officiating. Burial followed in the Nettleton Cemetery in Jonesboro, Ark. Grandchildren served as pallbearers. Visitation was Tuesday evening from 5 until 7 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home in Trumann. An online register book can be signedatwww.thompsonfuneralhome.net

Marked Tree's Lady Indians has made it look easy on their way to the semi-finals of the girls' Division I bracket. Marked Tree beat Cross County 75-15 in the opening round last Thursday and then topped Sloan-Hendrix 62-45 this past Tuesday. The Lady Indians will play Crowley's Ridge Academy Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. Jay Perry led three Lady Indians in double figures in their win against Cross County. Caflora Hillis added 14 and Poohnu Perry chipped in 13. Poohnu Perry led a trio of Perry's in double figures with 20 in the game against Sloan-Hendrix. Jay Perry added 18 while Lexi Perry added 12 points and grabbed 13 rebounds for Marked Tree.

The EPC Lady Warriors won their first round game of the Northeast Arkansas Invitational tournament over Walnut Ridge, 53-39, in a girls' Division II contest last Wednesday at the ASU Convocation Center. This win set EPC up to play the undefeated Lady Colts of Rivercrest. The Lady Warriors came up short in their quarterfinal matchup falling 69-65 this past Monday. Whitney Ball led EPC in scoring against Walnut Ridge with 21 points. Brittany Ball added 12 while Terrika Madden chipped in 10. "We started off slow and were sluggish on both offense and defense," Coach Bobby Lewallen said after the game. "We got back on course the second half and got the victory." In the Rivercrest game, after being down at the half, EPC fought back and Alicia Ross hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to pull EPC within 49-48 after three quarters. EPC found themselves down eight again in the final quarter before cutting the lead to four. This is as close as they got before the game ended. Madden led EPC in scoring with 26 points while Ross added 11 for the Lady Warriors.

Trumann's Lady Wildcats ran into a hot shooting Marmaduke team as they lost their opening game of the Northeast Arkansas Invitational Division II girls' tournament, 62-23. The Lady Greyhounds made 15 three pointers on their way to the win. Jazyme Nixon led Trumann with eight points.

Weiner's Lady Cardinals have won their first and second round games in the Northeast Arkansas Invitational tournament to find themselves in the semi-finals of the Division I bracket. Weiner picked up wins over McCrory 61-36 last Wednesday and then held on to beat Bay 73-69 this past Monday. Weiner used a double-double from Peyton Craft as she led her team to the win over McCrory. She finished with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Katelyn Junyor chipped in 11 points on the night. "We started off way to slow and gave up too many offensive rebounds in the first half," Coach James Halitzka said after the game. "We switched defenses in the second half and it helped us on the rebounding." Against Bay, Weiner led for almost the entire game, but a wild fourth quarter made this game interesting. The Lady Cardinals built and 11 point lead at half only to see that lead cut to three at the end of the third quarter. The final quarter was wild as Weiner stretched the lead to seven at one point to see Bay battle back to within a point before holding on for the win. Kaci Mack led the Lady Cardinals with 28 points. Peyton Craft added another double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Paige Craft chipped in 15 on the night. Bay's Hannah Willard led all scorers with 33 points. Sara Sharp tossed in 11 for the Lady 'Jackets. Courtney Francomano pulled down 12 rebounds.

Bay had little trouble in their opening round game of the Northeast Arkansas Invitational tournament held at the ASU Convocation Center. The Lady 'Jackets downed Ridgefield Christian 70-26 in a girls' Division I game last Thursday. Hannah Willard hit seven three pointers on her way to a game high 37 points for Bay. Sara Sharp tossed in 17 points for the Lady Yellowjackets.

Bay has advanced to the semi-finals of the Northeast Invitational Division II boys' basketball tournament being held at the ASU Convocation Center with wins over Sloan-Hendrix and Crowley's Ridge Academy. Bay will play the winner of the Augusta-Marked Tee game at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday night. Brad Craft scored 22 points for Bay as they easily handled Sloan-Hendrix 76-34. Tyson Oliver scored 20 while Damien Holt had 10. "Brad (Craft) played good on the inside for us tonight," Coach Brad Brannen said after the game. "Our defense wasn't quite as intense as we need it to be." In the CRA game, Bay used three scoring spurts pull away from the Falcons on their way to a 67-34 win. Bay opened the second quarter with a 7-0 run to push their lead to 11. CRA cut the lead to eight before Bay went on an 8-0 run to push the lead to 14. Bay ended the half on a 6-1 run to go up 40-23. Bay built on that lead in the second half on their way to the victory. Dylan Loven scored 15 to lead Bay. Oliver and Gunner Freeman add 13 and 12 points respectively for the Yellowjackets.

EPC has rolled into the semi-finals of the Northeast Arkansas Invitational Division II boys' tournament being held at the ASU Convocation Center. EPC posted a 81-36 opening round win over Tuckerman last Thursday while pulling away in the final quarter to hand Nettleton a 48-39 loss in their quarterfinal matchup. EPC will play Osceola Wednesday night at 9 p.m. in a semi-final game. Jammar Sturdivant had a game high 34 points to lead EPC to the win over Tuckerman. A.J. Turner and Jori Ford each had 13 points on the night. Turner grabbed 12 rebounds in the game. Against Nettleton, the game was close for most of the night. The Warriors led by one starting the last quarter but stepped up their defense to outscore the Raiders 10-2 on their way to the victory. Sturdivant again led the Warriors (9-1) in scoring with 28 points. Turner tossed in 13 for EPC.

The Marked Tree Indians have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the Northeast Invitational Division I boys' basketball tournament being held at the ASU Convocation Center. The Indians beat Weiner in the first round 64-48 last Thursday before handing Augusta a 76-60 loss this past Tuesday. The Indians will play Bay Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m. Marked Tree opened the game with a 9-0 run and never looked back on their way to the win over the Weiner Cardinals. Allen Buchanan led the Indians in scoring with 20 points as teammates Darius Ivy and Thadious Moore scored 18 and 14 points respectively. Drake Melton led the Cardinals in scoring with 13 points. Buchanan led Marked Tree with 27 points as the Indians jumped out to a 16 point halftime lead on the way to a 76-60 win over Augusta. Ivy and Gunner Pitts both added 15 points for Marked Tree as Moore tossed in 12.

Trumann has won its first two games of the Northeast Arkansas Invitational tournament being held at ASU Convocation Center to land a place in the semi-finals of the tournament. With wins over Highland and Marmaduke, the Wildcats will face Manila Wednesday night at 6 p.m. In the Highland game, Trumann led wire to wire on their way to a 77-44 victory. Matt Holt was the top scorer for Trumann with 15 points. Eichii Moore and Lee Conatser both 12 on the night. Malcolm Washington added 11. "The guys played a good game, we put pressure on them (Highland) from the start," Coach Skip Dulaney said. "Our scoring was pretty even with a lot of guys contributing." Dulaney added, "We just need to keep playing as a team, good things will happen." Against Marmaduke, Trumann (10-2) took a one-point lead into the final quarter and held off a late charge to claim a 73-67 win. Washington led the charge in this game with 22 points. Holt tossed in 16 while Conatser and Dylan Dulaney each had 10. Holt added 12 rebounds on the night.