News

News for Friday, June 20,2025 

Governor announces appointments,including to Carroll County Quorum Court
LITTLE ROCK - Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders today announced the following appointments:
Carroll County Quorum Court
David Blakenship, Eureka Springs, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 1, for Carroll County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Jackie Deaton.
Chicot County Quorum Court
William Borgognoni, Lake Village, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 7, for Chicot County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Ralph C. Jones.
Hempstead County Quorum Court
Krystal Goshen, Hope, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 2, for Hempstead County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Cherry Stewart.
Joe Raschke, Hope, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 6, for Hempstead County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Troy Lerew.
Hot Spring County Quorum Court
Peyton Murphy, Malvern, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 7, for Hot Spring County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Jennifer Corley.
Johnson County Quorum Court
Lewis Hobbs, Clarksville, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 1, for Johnson County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Mike Jacobs.
Searcy County Quorum Court
Tarance DePriest, Marshall, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 4, for Searcy County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Danny Loggins. Sebastian County Quorum Court
Brandon Morrison, Fort Smith, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 5, for Sebastian County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of John Spradlin.
St. Francis County Quorum Court
Kevin Vandiver, Forrest City, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 3, for St. Francis County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Margarette Winfrey.
Van Buren County Quorum Court
Paul Wellenberger, Fairfield Bay, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 4, Van Buren County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Mary Phillips.
Woodruff County Quorum Court
Gary McCue, McCrory, to serve as Justice of the Peace for District 5, Woodruff County. Term expires December 31, 2026. Fulfills the remaining term of Charles Dallas.
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TCWR launches new mission and logo amidmajor U.S. and international rescue efforts
EUREKA SPRINGS - Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) has unveiled a bold new look and sharpened mission statement, reinforcing its role as a global leader in the rescue and lifetime care of captive wild animals. The rebrand comes as the refuge takes on critical new rescue operations across the U.S. and internationally.
New Mission. New Logo. Same Lifesaving Work.
At the heart of TCWR's rebrand is a new mission statement that clearly defines its purpose:
To rescue and provide lifetime sanctuary for captive wild animals.
Alongside the mission, TCWR is debuting a modernized logo that reflects the organization's growth, compassion, and commitment to ethical animal care and advocacy.
"This mission statement says exactly who we are and what we do," said Tanya Smith, TCWR President and Founder. "It's simple, powerful, and puts the animals -- our reason for existing -- at the center."
California Witness Protection Case
In a recent confidential Witness Protection rescue, TCWR's Rescue Team traveled to California to assist the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and USDA in removing exotic cats from a facility with a long history of serious animal welfare violations. After the state denied the facility's permit renewal, the cats were initially placed in temporary housing within California. When those arrangements proved inadequate, TCWR stepped in to provide permanent, specialized care.
Eight new cats now call TCWR home: 3 female lions, 1 male lion, 1 male serval, 1 male caracal, 1 male leopard and 1 female fishing cat. Many of them have lasting medical challenges -- including metabolic bone disease (MBD), which requires ongoing treatment, custom diets, and expert veterinary oversight.
"These animals are safe now, but their needs are significant and ongoing," said Emily McCormack, Animal Curator at TCWR. "We're committed to giving them the second chance they deserve."
Two Major International Rescues Underway
The California case is just one of several large-scale rescue efforts currently in progress. TCWR is also working on two international missions:
Canada: TCWR is coordinating with government officials to rescue and rehome a group of African lions.Honduras: The team is preparing to assist in the relocation of big cats from Little French Key, where animals are living in precarious conditions on a private island tourist attraction."These rescues involve complex logistics, international coordination, and long-term commitment," Smith said. "But these animals have nowhere else to go, and we won't turn our backs on them."
Support the Mission
TCWR invites the public to be part of these critical efforts. Donations directly fund transport, medical care, nutritious diets, and habitat improvements for rescued animals -- all requiring lifelong care.
For more information, visit www.turpentinecreek.org or contact us at (479) 253-5841.
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Carroll County Extension hosting Fair Judging School
BERRYVILLE - The Carroll County Extension Office will host a Fair Judge School on June 27.
The class will begin at 9 a.m. in the Carroll Electric Community Room. The class will help attendees learn how to judge entries in a variety of fair categories, including household arts, food preparation, food preservation, photography, crafts and horticulture/floriculture.
Those interested in attending must pre-register by June 20. Cost is $30 and includes the book, class fee and lunch.
For more details and to RSVP, call the Carroll County Extension Office at (870) 423-2958.

News for Thursday, June 19, 2025

CCSO launches new website feature
BERRYVILLE - The Carroll County Sheriff's Office is announcing a new sex offender feature to its popular website.
This new feature gives citizens the ability to view photos and information regarding sex offenders living in the county. The new feature can be found on the website's homepage (www.carrollcountysheriffar.gov) by clicking on the Sex Offender button after the top photo. The direct link is available here: www.carrollcountysheriffar.gov/sex-offenders
For more information about the website, contact the Carroll County Sheriff's Office at (870) 423-2901 or visit www.carrollcountysheriffar.gov
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Public invited to meet newCEO of Eureka Springs Hospital
EUREKA SPRINGS - The public is invited to meet the new CEO of Eureka Springs Hospital, Tiffany Means, this Friday, June 20, between 4:45-5:30 p.m. at the Hospital Clinic located at 25 Norris Street.Tiffany holds a Masters in Healthcare Administration, a Doctor of Nursing Practices, is a Certified Executive in Nurse Practice, AONL, and is a Registered Nurse in Arkansas, California and Illinois.
She worked for the Mercy Health System in Rogers and was Director of Emergency Services for Northwest Health System in Springdale, AR, and was awarded Clinical Director of the Year. She was also recognized as Community Healthcare Leader by the Marshallese Coalition. This is just a sampling of her experience and recognition as an outstanding healthcare professional.
Everyone is invited to join the Eureka Springs Hospital staff and Commission this Friday afternoon to welcome Tiffany and her family to Eureka Springs.
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Arkansas Academic ChallengeScholarship deadline is July 1
Fifteen years since its launch, the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery (ASL) continues to support Arkansas students.
Since 2009, ASL has raised over $1.4 billion in scholarship proceeds for more than 822,000 scholarships for both traditional and non-traditional students in Arkansas.
“Supporting students has always been the cornerstone of our mission at the lottery,” said ASL Executive Director Sharon Strong. “We’ve seen for the past fifteen years how Arkansans have benefited from the scholarships we fund, and we’re excited to keep up the good work.”
“Everyone wins when students succeed,” she added.
The deadline for students to apply for the Arkansas Academic Challenge, a lottery-funded scholarship, is July 1.
The scholarship is available to Arkansas residents attending either two-year or four-year in-state colleges and universities. Both traditional and non-traditional students are eligible to apply.
“Regardless of whether you’re a high school senior or you’re re-enrolling after some time away, this scholarship is for you,” Strong said.
In addition to the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, the lottery also raises funds for the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship and the ACCESS to Acceleration program.
The Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship is designated for students seeking training and certification in high-demand fields. These fields include construction trades; healthcare; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC); information technology (IT); and industrial maintenance.
The ACCESS to Acceleration program will replace the Concurrent Challenge Scholarship, which is currently funded by ASL. It will support students enrolled in college courses during high school.
Although ASL plays a crucial role in fundraising for scholarship initiatives, the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) is responsible for awarding these scholarships. To learn more about the eligibility requirements for these scholarships or to apply, please call ADHE at (501)-371-2000 or visit sams.adhe.edu.
For more information about the lottery, visit MyArkansasLottery.com.
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Holiday Island Fire Departmentannual Golf Tournament this weekend
HOLIDAY ISLAND - The Holiday Island Fire Department will host its 24th annual Golf Tournament & Silent Auction this Friday and Saturday, June 20-21.
Events kick off at 5 p.m. on Friday with a Smokin' Hot BBQ at the Clubhouse, followed by a silent auction and plenty of door prizes. The public is invited to attend and tickets are $15 and $8 for those 10 and under.
The 18-hole, three-person scramble tournament kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Entry fee is $75 per person and proceeds will benefit the Holiday Island Fire Department. For entry information, visit or call Pro Shop at (479) 253-9511. 

News for Wednesday June 18,2025

KTHS, Berryville Chamber announce
Red, White and Blue Bash on July 4

BERRYVILLE - KTHS 107.1 is accepting vendors for the July 4th Red, White and Blue Bash at the Carroll County Fairgrounds! This will be a fun event for all ages. The event will start at 10 a.m. and go until after Fire on the Mountain.

For more information or to register as a vendor, email manager.kths@gmail.com or text 870-654-3938. You can also visit the official Red, White and Blue Bash event page on Facebook.

The event will include vendor booths from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. along with gospel singing from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The band Rescue will perform from 4-6 p.m. with a Kickin' Country Dance Party to take place from 6-11 p.m. Other activities include kids games, face painting, bounce houses, a concession stand, truck show and much more.

Everyone is invited to join KTHS along with the Carroll County Junior Fairboard and the Berryville Chamber of Commerce for a day of good, clean family fun. Parking is $3 per car at the gate which, along with concession stand proceeds, will go to support the Junior Fair Board fundraiser. Music is completely free.

No alcohol, fireworks or pets are allowed at this event.

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Arkansas AG Griffin announces Medicaid fraud convictions, arrest

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announced an arrest and two Medicaid fraud convictions on Tuesday, June 17.

On June 9, 38-year-old Tameka Collins of Eudora and 19-year-old Takobe Larry of Arkadelphia were convicted. 

Collins pleaded guilty to one count of Medicaid fraud and was ordered to pay a $500 fine, court costs and restitution in the amount of $2,646.87 to the Medicaid Program. Collins is also required to serve 24 months of Suspended Imposition Sentence (SIS) after claiming to have provided personal care services to Medicaid recipients while she was working at the Arkansas Department of Corrections. 

Larry pleaded guilty to one count of abuse of adults and was ordered to pay a $700 fine, court costs and serve 36 months of SIS. Larry was arrested after being caught on camera using a utility vehicle to run into a resident of the Arkadelphia Human Development Center.

On June 12, 55-year-old Monica Heaggans of Little Rock was arrested and charged with the exploitation of an endangered or impaired person. Heaggans allegedly took thousands of dollars from an endangered person with reduced mental facilities. 

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Big catfish donation adds smiles for community anglers across Arkansas 

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Family and Community Fishing Program locations will see some hefty bonus catfish stockings this week, thanks to a generous donation by Baxter Land Company Fish Farm in Desha County.

Thousands of catfish ranging in size from 5 to 45 pounds will be hauled to program ponds. The total donated weight of catfish is expected to exceed 20,000 pounds.
Dick Baxter, who was named the Arkansas Catfish Farmer of the year by The Catfish institute in 2023, said most of the fish are in the 5- to 7-pound range, but there are some jumbo-sized blue catfish that will definitely add some excitement for anglers fishing community ponds throughout the state.

“The biggest one I’ve seen so far is about 45 pounds, and I wish I could be there when some kid hooks into that fish and has the time of their life,” Baxter said.

The fish were grown to be used in the farm’s spawning ponds and are past the preferred size for most food markets, but they still hold a lot of value in other commercial markets. Baxter hopes the fish pay much higher returns in the future of conservation.

“I really just think it’s important to get new people involved in conservation, and you have to get people excited about hunting and fishing to do that,” Baxter said. “If you take a kid to a pond and they don’t catch anything, they may not know how fun the outdoors can be, but if they go to a public pond and they hook into one of these fish, we may have just created a future biologist or supporter of the outdoors. I think we need more of those experiences everywhere in the state.”

Jason Miller, AGFC Assistant Chief of Fisheries, said this is the fifth time Baxter has donated fish to the anglers of the state.

“These fish could still bring Baxter some good profit, but he’s always had a great relationship with us and these donations give us something that we don’t provide through our hatcheries. He’s donated well over 100,000 pounds of fish over the years for people to catch.”

Miller said catchable-sized catfish AGFC hatcheries provide anglers at FCFP locations range from three-quarters of a pound to two pounds because that size provides the best combination of value and numbers for anglers to pursue.

“It would require too much pond space on our hatcheries and food to regularly grow fish to this this size for stocking, so this is a treat that we don’t get to offer very often,” Miller said.

Clint Coleman, Assistant FCFP Coordinator, said he can always tell when the big blue catfish come to program ponds by the calls and reactions of regular anglers.

“We get calls from anglers and people send in pictures of their big catches,” Coleman said. “People really get a kick out of fighting these bigger fish, but I’d suggest bringing a dip net along on your next fishing trip or two to the ponds. More than one angler has hooked into one just to have it break his line right at the bank when he finally got it within reach.”

Baxter offers this bit of advice for anglers looking to hook into one of these fish.
“Be sure you have at least 20-pound-test fishing line and a 3/0 circle hook,” Baxter said. “Suspend the bait about a foot under a bobber and make sure the drag on the reel is loose. Bring a kid and get ready to have a great time.”

Visit www.agfc.com/familyfishing to find a FCFP location near you. Aerial views of the ponds and the most recent stocking dates are available through the program’s web page.

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Safer Internet Month: ASP shares
new safety rules for a new online world

“Children as young as seven are being targeted online, and we’re seeing a sharp increase in sextortion cases involving minors,” said Sergeant Corwin Battle, Commander of the Arkansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. “Last year in Arkansas, there were 169 sextortion reports. Already in 2025, Arkansas has received 170 sextortion reports — exceeding last year’s total, with half the year still ahead. The threat is real, but it’s different from what many of us grew up worrying about.”

The ICAC Task Force is encouraging parents, caregivers, and the entire community to enhance their strategies for child safety. This call to action coincides with Safer Internet Month in June and follows the nationwide initiative Operation Safe Online Summer (SOS).

Operation SOS was a coordinated national initiative conducted throughout April 2025, spearheaded by the ICAC Task Forces working with federal partners to address the technology-facilitated exploitation of children.
Despite the passage of the REPORT Act, the number of cyber tip reports remains high, with a concerning rise in certain types of online exploitation.

Nationwide, there are over 19,000 reports of sextortion involving minors each year. In comparison, there are only about 350 to 400 child abduction cases by non-family members, and about 1,000 confirmed child sex trafficking cases reported annually. The most common platforms for this activity are Snapchat and Instagram.

The shift to end-to-end encryption on major tech platforms has made it more challenging to detect and report harmful content, placing a greater responsibility on parents, caregivers, and young people to recognize and report suspicious activity. To help families navigate today’s digital landscape, the Arkansas ICAC Task Force is sharing updated safety rules for kids:

Old Rule: Don’t talk to strangers in public.New Rule: Don’t talk to strangers online—even if they seem friendly or say things you like.
Old Rule: Never get into a car with someone you don’t know.New Rule: Never click on links or accept friend requests from people you don’t really know.
Old Rule: If something feels wrong, find a trusted adult right away.New Rule: If something feels wrong online, tell a trusted adult immediately.
Old Rule: Don’t share your home address or phone number.New Rule: Don’t share personal details like your school, hometown, or photos online.
Old Rule: Don’t take candy from strangers!New Rule: Don’t accept gifts, money, or promises from people online—no matter how good it sounds.

The Arkansas ICAC Task Force urges all parents, educators, and community members to stay alert, stay involved, and help keep Arkansas’s children safe both online and off.
If you encounter suspicious online activity or potential threats, report them to local law enforcement or the Arkansas State Fusion Center at (501) 618-8001.

Contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

Together, we can make the Internet a safer place for every child.

News for Tuesday, June 17,2025 

Carroll County Quorum Court to meet this evening
BERRYVILLE – The Carroll County Quorum Court will convene this evening at 5 p.m. in the Eastern District Courthouse in Berryville, where justices of the peace will consider a packed agenda that includes a formal grievance challenging the legality and public safety of the Nimbus Scout Wind Energy project.
Submitted by Carroll County landowner Steve Chase and sponsored by JP Caroline Rogers, the grievance alleges that Scout Clean Energy’s proposed 30-turbine project is proceeding without adequate compliance with Arkansas fire and building codes. The turbines—each over 500 feet tall—are slated for installation in steep, forested terrain, which Chase contends poses a significant wildfire risk due to the lack of access roads, hydrants, suppression systems and lightning protection.
In his letter to the court, Chase cited Arkansas Attorney General Opinion No. 2005-075 by then-Attorney General Mike Beebe, which affirms that the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code has the full force of law and applies statewide, regardless of local adoption. He is calling on the Quorum Court to vote on whether it agrees the Nimbus project must comply with state code and whether further oversight is necessary.
The grievance comes amid mounting concern in the county over the $400 million project, which some opponents argue is proceeding without adequate local regulatory review. The court is expected to discuss the matter during the meeting’s new business section, following a broader discussion on the county’s grievance process, also sponsored by Rogers.
In other business, justices will consider a resolution endorsing Messer, LLC to participate in the state’s Tax Back Program under the Consolidated Incentive Act of 2003. The resolution would allow the company to receive a refund on sales and use taxes for eligible purchases tied to its operations in Carroll County.
Also under new business are several resolutions to confirm appointments to local boards and commissions, including:
-Walt Kenyon to the Grassy Knob Volunteer Fire Association District Commission,
-Larry Markley and Will Starnes to the Sylvan Shores Subordinate Service District,
-Dan Horn to the Bluffs at Jackson Cove Subordinate Service District.
Additionally, a ceremonial resolution is expected to recognize the Arkansas 250 Commission as it begins its work to commemorate the state’s 250-year history from 1776 to 2026.
The meeting is open to the public.


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AGFC seeking schools to breaknew ground in outdoor education 
LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is accepting applications from school administrators to join in a pilot program developed with Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ office and the Natural State Initiative Advisory Council that will offer outdoor education opportunities within curriculum that can be seamlessly incorporated into lesson plans throughout the school day.
The pilot project, announced at a press conference held by Gov. Sanders at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center June 4, will be a partnership between the Arkansas Department of Education and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and will help equip students for a future career in outdoor recreation.
Thirty schools will be chosen from across the state to participate in the program during its first year. If successful, the partnering agencies will prepare for a statewide launch. School administrators and teachers interested in elevating outdoor education opportunities on their campuses can apply through the AGFC’s School of Conservation Leadership program and complete a letter of intent to AGFC Chief of Education Mary Beth Hatch at marybeth.hatch@agfc.ar.gov.
Natural resource agencies have worked for years to develop additional curricula and lesson plans for educators to bring the outdoors into the classroom, but Hatch says this new program takes an entirely fresh approach, working with teachers to develop pathways into regular coursework instead of proposing additional workloads for teachers and students.
“As a teacher with 13 years of experience in the classroom, I know how educators are constantly asked to add this ‘one more thing’ into their curriculum, and that those additions add up to an overwhelming and unachievable task,” Hatch said. “What we’ve designed is a playbook to truly incorporate outdoor education in your school, not just as one more thing a teacher has to add to their already taxed workload, but as something that integrates seamlessly into science, social studies, math, language arts, art, PE and a variety of elective courses. It’s not one more thing; it’s a new way to present what’s already being taught that’s been developed with the help of professionals in the outdoor recreation and conservation industry.”
Sanders said the program will help students develop skills and knowledge that can be applied to career tracks in outdoor recreation and conservation, which is one of the largest driving factors in Arkansas’s economy.
In 2022, the most recent year for which data is available, Arkansas welcomed more than 50 million visitors who spent nearly $10 billion, much of it on outdoor recreation opportunities.
 “A student’s education should not be fully reliant on technology and smart devices,” Sanders said. “This program emphasizes another reason why my husband, Bryan, and I started the Natural State Initiative: to get kids off screens and outside. Thank you to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for investing in our kids’ future and promoting outdoor education.”
“Getting kids outside is one of the best things we can do for them, improving their education, health and quality of life,” said first gentleman and Natural State Initiative Advisory Council Chair Bryan Sanders. “This program will inspire our kids to develop a greater appreciation for The Natural State and help Arkansas build a pipeline of future workers and entrepreneurs to support our growing tourism industry and outdoor economy.”
Email marybeth.hatch@agfc.ar.gov for more information.
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Tickets on sale for Friends of theBerryville Library's Eats, Beats, & Sweets BERRYVILLE - Join the Friends of the Berryville Library and Marquee Sponsors Equity Bank and Bank of 1889 this Saturday, June 21, from 4-8 p.m. at the Berryville Community Center Banquet Hall for a fun mid-summer celebration of local talent. Rancho Latino and Taqueria El Guerito will be providing carnitas, rice, beans, and pico de gallo (chicken and vegetarian options also available) and the library bakers will provide cookies and lemon bars. The Highway 13 Band will provide live music, and there will be a silent auction that includes gift cards. All proceeds raised will support the library.   Purchase tickets in advance at the Berryville Public Library 104 Spring St. or by calling 870-423-2323 or emailing friends@berryvillelibrary.org.
Tickets include meal, drink, and entertainment. Adults are $20, children 7-12 get in for $10, and children 6 and under are free.  The event will be indoors and air conditioned!  Don't miss out on the fun!

Arrest Reports: 06/16

Diandra Green of Golden - Failure to Pay x2, Possession, Possession of Drug Para/Felony

Jason Darrell Moore of West Fork - Hold for Other Agency

Tiibwaa Bwebwetaake Torejak of Springdale - Court Commitment

Jason Wayne Woods of Green Forest 0 Driving on Susp D/L Due to DWI, Failure to Pay Registration Fee, Possession of Open Container, Possession, Possession of a Controlled Substance

There are currently 90 inmates housed at the Carroll County Detention Center. 

For more information visit the  Carroll County Sheriff's Department  website - Click Here

News for Monday, June 16 2025 

Two Green Forest residents killed in accident
GREEN FOREST – A two-vehicle accident in Carroll County last week claimed the lives of two Green Forest residents and left two others injured, according to the Arkansas State Police.
According to the incident report released over the weekend, the accident occurred around 9 a.m. on June 11 on County Road 814 in Carroll County. The report states that a 2015 Ford was traveling westbound on County Road 814 when it was struck head-on by a 2020 Honda traveling eastbound that failed to negotiate a curve.
The crash resulted in the deaths of the Honda's driver and a passenger. The driver was identified as 18-year-old Floridalma Ochoa, and the passenger was identified as 26-year-old Dayari Anahi Cifuentes. Another passenger in the Honda was injured, as was the driver of the Ford.
Both injured individuals were transported to North Arkansas Regional Medical Center.
The investigating state trooper noted that road and weather conditions were clear and dry at the time of the accident.
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Give blood, get game tickets atMercy Hospital Berryville Blood Drive
BERRYVILLE – Area residents will have a chance to save lives and score some baseball fun at the upcoming Bleed Blue Blood Drive, hosted by Mercy Hospital Berryville in partnership with the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks.
The drive will take place Tuesday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Medical Arts Conference Room at Mercy Hospital Berryville, located at 211 Carter Avenue.
All successful donors will receive a three-quarter sleeve Northwest Arkansas Naturals baseball T-shirt and two free tickets to an upcoming Naturals game, while supplies last.
The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks is the sole provider of blood, plasma, and platelets to all northwest Arkansas hospitals, including Mercy Hospital Berryville and more than 40 other medical facilities across the Ozarks.
“We are honored to continue our partnership with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks to help save lives in northwest Arkansas,” said Justin Cole, Vice President and General Manager of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. “The Bleed Blue Blood Drive is a powerful way for the community to come together and make a lasting impact for local patients in need.”
Organizers encourage donors to make appointments in advance to reduce wait times. Appointments can be scheduled online at www.cbco.org/baseball or by calling 417-227-5006.
Blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health. Parental consent is required for donors age 16. Valid photo ID is also required.
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State Capitol Week in Review
By Senator Bryan B. King
Tuition will increase at almost all Arkansas universities and colleges in the fall.
The University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees has approved tuition and fees for the school year that begins in the fall of 2025. The system comprises five four-year universities,  several colleges in the medical school, an online university and eight two-year colleges. More than 70,000 students are enrolled. The system employs 28,000 people and has a total budget of more than $4 billion.
A typical undergraduate at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville who takes 30 hours will see an increase of 3.89 percent. Tuition will go up 2.5 percent to $8,092 and mandatory fees will increase 8.88 percent to $2,404.
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock will increase fees by 1.93 percent, to $3,161, and tuition for undergraduate residents will not change. The University of Arkansas at Monticello will see tuition increase from $189 to $194 per credit hour.
At the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff the cost of a credit hour will go from $211 to $219. The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith will increase tuition for the typical undergraduate from $5,940 to $6,600. Fees will go up from $3,188 to $3,226.
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences will raise tuition by $475 to $17,475 at the College of Medicine. Tuition at the College of Pharmacy will remain $10,428.
The Board of Trustees of the Arkansas State University System has also set new rates for tuition and fees at its campuses. The system has four-year universities - ASU in Jonesboro and Henderson State in Arkadelphia.
It has a two-year college in Beebe with campuses in Heber Springs, Searcy and the Little Rock Air Force Base. It has a two-year college in Newport with additional campuses in Marked Tree and Jonesboro. Also, the system has colleges in West Memphis, Mountain Home and Malvern.
The ASU system includes a campus in Queretaro, Mexico. In total, the system enrolls almost 35,000 students.
ASU at Jonesboro will raise tuition and fees by 3.3 percent, to $10,430. Henderson State will raise tuition and fees 2.5 percent, to $10,560. At both ASU-Newport and ASU-Beebe tuition and fees will be $4,290, up 3.6 percent and 2.9 percent respectively.
At ASU Mid-South in West Memphis tuition and fees will increase 1.9 percent, to $4,770. At ASU-Mountain Home tuition and fees will increase 1.4 percent, to $4,200.
The University of Central Arkansas at Conway will raise tuition and fees by an average of 3.96 percent for graduate and undergraduate students. A typical undergrad who enrolls for 30 credit hours over two semesters will pay $10,940, up from $10,523 this year.
Arkansas Tech in Russellville will increase tuition and fees for a typical undergraduate by 2.55 percent. A student taking 15 hours a semester will pay $5,113 a semester. That is $127 more than last year. Students at the Ozark campus enrolled in skilled career education and skilled trades will pay $140 per credit hour, up from $136 last year.

Arrest Reports: 06/12

James Darling of Clover, MO- Hold for Other Agency. 

Virginia Gage of Berryville- Contempt of Court, Failure to Appear-Misd. 

Katrina Gonce of Berryville- Contempt of Court. 

Tosha Hardesty of Blue Eye- Failure to Appear-Felony. 

Heather Lander of Holiday Island- Failure to Appear X2, Revocation X2. 

Roger Tovar of Berryville- Contempt of Court, Driving on Susp. D/L due to DWI, Possession Drug Para/Misd. 

There are currently 85 inmates housed at the Carroll County Detention Center. 
For more information visit the
 Carroll County Sheriff's Department
 website - Click Here

News for Thursday, June 12,2025 

4th Annual Turpentine CreekMopar Classic to light up Eureka Springs
EUREKA SPRINGS - Car enthusiasts and families alike are invited to kick off summer at the Turpentine Creek Mopar Classic, a community-fueled celebration supporting Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR). This year’s lineup features Friday Night Lights on Friday, June 20, and the main car show on Saturday, June 21, both in beautiful Eureka Springs.
Friday, June 20 – Friday Night Lights & Moparade
-MOPARADE through downtown Eureka Springs | 6 PM – 7 PM
-Parade begins with vehicle lineup at 5 PM, departing sharp at 6 PM from the Eureka Springs Community Center
-Friday Night Lights, sponsored by Fasty’s Garage | 7 PM – 10 PM at Eureka Springs Community Center
-A dazzling display of underglow, interior, trunk, and underhood lighting – open to all ages and free to attend
-Awards for “Top 10 Best Lighting” and the special “Fasty’s Choice” will be presented at 10 PM
Saturday, June 21 – 4th Annual Mopar Classic Car Show
-9 AM – 3 PM at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs
-Presented by Lewis Auto Group, this Mopar-only car show features:
-Registration limit: 150 vehicles ($30; day-of registration available)
-Category awards, specialty awards (e.g., Best Engine, Best Paint, Best Interior), Best of Show, and TCWR’s own choice award
-Food trucks, vendors, silent auction, and an exciting 50/50 pot
About Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR)
TCWR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing lifetime sanctuary for abandoned, abused, and neglected big cats – tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, and more. Attendees at Saturday’s show can tour the refuge and support the animals; registered participants also receive discounted admission to visit the rescued wildlife.
Community Impact
-Since its inception in 2022, the Mopar Classic has donated over $20,000 to TCWR and committed $25,000 toward Freedom Field, the newly developed portion of the refuge completed in 2024
-Last year’s event alone contributed $8,000, and this year organizers aim to surpass that milestone
-All proceeds from registrations, sponsorships, vendor fees, the silent auction, and the 50/50 pot directly benefit TCWR after covering minimal admin costs
Join the Fun & Make a Difference
-Who: Open to all Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Chrysler, and other Mopar-family vehicles
-When:
-June 20: Moparade at 6 PM ® Friday Night Lights 7-10 PM
-June 21: Main show 9 AM – 3 PM at TCWR
-Registration: $30 per vehicle (day-of registration available)
-Admission: Free for all to enjoy Friday Night Lights; Saturday car show free admission – discounted admission to tour the refuge for car show registered participants; regular admission fees to tour the refuge for the public
Why It Matters
The Turpentine Creek Mopar Classic combines automotive passion with wildlife philanthropy. Every lighting setup, roar of an engine, and prize awarded helps fund world-class care and permanent homes for big cats in TCWR’s sanctuary – giving these incredible animals a second change at life.
About Turpentine Creek Mopar Classic:
Founded in 2022 by Aaron Hoyt and Ed Bausman, this all-Mopar car show quickly became Arkansas’s premier community fundraising event. With volunteer power and Mopar spirit, the event has grown each year and remains dedicated to shining a light – both literally and figuratively – on wildlife rescue.
For more details, vehicle registration, sponsorships, vendor opportunities, or press inquiries, please contact the organizers at tcmoparclassic@gmail.com or (501) 590-0003.
Visit tcmoparclassic.com for full event info.
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Navigate with care in high water
CARROLL COUNTY - Arkansas has experienced one of the wettest springs on record, causing swollen streams and extended high water throughout most of the state’s large lakes and reservoirs. Table Rock, Beaver, Bull Shoals, Norfork, and Greers Ferry lakes have all been above their conservation (full) pool levels for many weeks, and a smattering of other large lakes around the state are also within their flood pool level. While these elevated water levels can open up exciting opportunities for anglers looking to find bass, bream and crappie in newly flooded habitat, they introduce a new set of hazards in the form of floating debris and unknown structures hiding beneath the surface.
Always operate your boat at a reduced speed in unfamiliar or newly flooded areas. This gives you more time to react to unexpected obstacles and minimizes damage if an impact does occur.
High water may appear serene once the storm has passed,  but what looks like open water may conceal submerged obstacles that can quickly turn a peaceful outing into a costly accident or a dangerous situation. Submerged tree stumps and sunken logs can wreak havoc on a boat’s hull or smash the lower unit of an outboard. What may look like a small twig at first glance can turn out to be the top of an entire tree hidden just beneath the water’s surface. Fence posts, submerged gates, courtesy docks and picnic tables are other shoreline amenities that can turn into obstacles when the water rises.
Even away from the shoreline, keeping a proper lookout during these conditions is paramount to boating safety, especially for anglers running in low-light hours.
“Don’t assume a familiar area is free of danger simply because you’ve safely navigated it before,” AGFC Black Bass Program Coordinator Jeremy Risley said. “Floating debris is difficult to see first thing in the morning and as the sun sets in the evening. As days grow hotter and night-fishing becomes more prevalent, extra caution becomes even more important.”
Boaters should also know how much water their vessel needs to operate safely and avoid venturing into areas that are too shallow. Allow for extra clearance, remembering that you may not be able to see submerged debris. Pay close attention to your depth finder, but remember that it only reads where you’re at, not what is just ahead. When in doubt, opt for slow and steady, even using the trolling motor if you know you’re in an area likely to be riddled with underwater obstacles.
Wearing a properly fitting life jacket is always encouraged, but even more so when navigating unfamiliar high water. Strong currents, floating debris, and unexpected impacts can cause boaters to be thrown into the water, and a life jacket can be the difference between an embarrassing plunge and a tragic situation. By law, all boats in Arkansas must have a properly fitting, wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket readily accessible for every person on board. Children 12 and under must wear their U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket the entire time they are on board any vessel unless such occupants are within the enclosed area of a houseboat or cruiser, or within the area enclosed by railings of a houseboat, party barge, or cruiser, and the vessel is not underway.
High water amplifies the need for focused, responsible boating. Be mindful of these new challenges and you can unlock the key to some fantastic fishing on Arkansas’s beautiful lakes and reservoirs this summer.
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Tickets on sale for Friends of the Berryville Library's Eats, Beats, & Sweets Mid-Summer evening of fun
Submitted by Kristy Noble/Friends of the Berryville Library BERRYVILLE - The Friends of the Berryville Library, along with Marquee Sponsors, Equity Bank and Bank of 1889, invite you to attend an evening of fun, live music, and great local food Saturday, June 21, from 4-8 p.m. at the Berryville Community Center Banquet Hall.  
Rancho Latino and El Guerito will be providing carnitas, rice, beans, and pico de gallo.  Dessert and drinks will also be provided.  The Highway 13 Band and The Bookworms will be providing the live music. There will also be a silent auction that includes gift cards. All proceeds raised from the event will support the Berryville library.   Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased in advance at the Berryville Public Library or by calling 870-423-2323 or by emailing friends@berryvillelibrary.org. Tickets are $20 each, children 7 to 12 are $10, and children 6 and under are free.
Tickets make a great Father’s Day gift for the whole family!  Don't miss out on this mid-summer evening of fun while helping a great cause!

News for Wednesday, June 11,2025

Carroll County Quorum Court to heargrievance over Nimbus Wind Project
BERRYVILLE – The Carroll County Quorum Court will convene Tuesday, June 17, at 5 p.m. in the Eastern District Courthouse in Berryville, where justices of the peace will consider a packed agenda that includes a formal grievance challenging the legality and public safety of the Nimbus Scout Wind Energy project.
Submitted by Carroll County landowner Steve Chase and sponsored by JP Caroline Rogers, the grievance alleges that Scout Clean Energy’s proposed 30-turbine project is proceeding without adequate compliance with Arkansas fire and building codes. The turbines—each over 500 feet tall—are slated for installation in steep, forested terrain, which Chase contends poses a significant wildfire risk due to the lack of access roads, hydrants, suppression systems and lightning protection.
In his letter to the court, Chase cited Arkansas Attorney General Opinion No. 2005-075 by then-Attorney General Mike Beebe, which affirms that the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code has the full force of law and applies statewide, regardless of local adoption. He is calling on the Quorum Court to vote on whether it agrees the Nimbus project must comply with state code and whether further oversight is necessary.
The grievance comes amid mounting concern in the county over the $400 million project, which some opponents argue is proceeding without adequate local regulatory review. The court is expected to discuss the matter during the meeting’s new business section, following a broader discussion on the county’s grievance process, also sponsored by Rogers.
In other business, justices will consider a resolution endorsing Messer, LLC to participate in the state’s Tax Back Program under the Consolidated Incentive Act of 2003. The resolution would allow the company to receive a refund on sales and use taxes for eligible purchases tied to its operations in Carroll County.
Also under new business are several resolutions to confirm appointments to local boards and commissions, including:
-Walt Kenyon to the Grassy Knob Volunteer Fire Association District Commission,
-Larry Markley and Will Starnes to the Sylvan Shores Subordinate Service District,
-Dan Horn to the Bluffs at Jackson Cove Subordinate Service District.
Additionally, a ceremonial resolution is expected to recognize the Arkansas 250 Commission as it begins its work to commemorate the state’s 250-year history from 1776 to 2026.
Miscellaneous reports will include updates from Suzanne Villines of Juvenile Probation, the Carroll County Airport Commission, and Berryville Mayor Tim McKinney regarding participation in the Tax Back Program.
As always, a period for public comment will be provided early in the meeting, with a three-minute time limit per speaker.
The meeting is open to the public.
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Rain and thunderstorms expected across Carroll County region through Friday, flooding possible
CARROLL COUNTY – The National Weather Service in Tulsa has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for Carroll County and the surrounding region, warning of increased thunderstorm activity and the potential for locally heavy rainfall beginning Wednesday and continuing through the end of the week.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop throughout Wednesday as an area of low pressure moves in from the southwest. Storms are forecast to begin south of Interstate 40 after 7 a.m. before spreading northward into eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas, including Carroll, Benton, Madison, Franklin, Crawford and Washington counties.
While the NWS said the risk of severe weather remains low due to weak upper-level winds and marginal wind shear, the storms may bring dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning and locally heavy rainfall.
Rain chances are expected to persist overnight and into Thursday and Friday, with the heaviest precipitation forecast over southeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas. Rainfall totals between 1 to 3 inches, with localized higher amounts, could contribute to flooding concerns, especially in areas already saturated from recent rainfall.
The Weather Service notes that the severe weather threat will likely stay low, but flood risks may rise as moisture continues to build over the region. Precipitation is expected to begin tapering off Friday night into Saturday, though additional rounds of thunderstorms may return over the weekend and into early next week due to a lingering upper-level disturbance.
No spotter activation is anticipated at this time, but residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and remain alert for any changing weather conditions.
More information and updates are available at weather.gov/tulsa.
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Fruit, vegetable growers in NWA try torecover from season-ending hailstorm
By Mary Hightower/UAEX
WASHINGTON COUNTY - Just before noon on May 18, Sta-n-Step Blue Berry Farm at Tontitown posted Facebook photos of healthy blueberry bushes heavy with fruit.
“The season is getting close! We’re thinking blueberries may be ready for picking on Memorial Day Weekend,” the post said.
Eight hours later, the farm’s Facebook page had drastically different images: A yard covered in white hail the size of marbles. Once-lush blueberry foliage lay shredded on the ground, with a few green tatters still attached to the branches.
Not a berry remained.
“It was a season-ender for me,” said Sta-n-Step’s owner Les Dozier.
Sta-n-Step, along with other fruit and vegetable growers in northwest Arkansas, saw a full-season’s expectations lost in minutes to a barrage of hail and high winds. The warned storm, which struck Springdale and surrounding areas, carried gusts up to 70 miles per hour and hail up to 2 inches in diameter. Images posted on social media showed so much hail; it appeared the area was blanketed by snowfall.
“We’ve got about 3.5 acres that has blueberries,  an acre of blackberries and then about a half-acre of raspberries,” Dozier said.
Dozier said the farm “normally produced around 1,200 gallons of blueberries and 600 to 800 gallons of blackberries. I told my wife we probably will not even be able to find one gallon.
“It destroyed them all,” he said. “We lost everything basically in 10 minutes.”
Counting his investment in mulch, pest and disease control products, and his own labor so far this season, “I’m already out 15 grand,” Dozier said.
The hail “was fast, sometimes large, and was coming in at a pretty low angle versus from straight overhead due to straight line winds,” said Colin Massey, Washington County extension agent for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
As part of his extension work, Massey made the rounds checking on local growers and helping rebuild where he could and providing guidance to mitigate damage. The hail damaged approximately 30 acres of fruit and vegetable growth among the farms he visited.
“I can only imagine how defeating it can feel to have your season's work get dropped in a matter of minutes,” he said. “Worst hit were berry farms in Tontitown and Goshen.”
The hail couldn’t have come at a worse time for fruit growers.
“Blueberries were set to be picked the weekend following the Sunday storm,” Massey said. “The majority of berries were knocked off, defoliated, and the stems and branches were wounded by hail.
“Blueberries in these locations are done for this year,” he said. “The plants can recover but this will likely require an additional treatment to try and prevent fungal pathogens from entering open wounds, especially with wet and humid conditions.”
Managing for recovery
Damage to blackberry plants was serious.
“It looked like someone took a shotgun to the plants,” Dozier said. “The primocanes were more fragile than the floricanes. Some of the primocanes were 5 to 6 feet high and they took so many hits, some of them just kind of collapsed.”
Massey said that in addition to the defoliation and bruising or destruction of fruit, he saw “wounding on the canes.”
Most blackberries and raspberries have a two-year growth cycle. First-year stems are called primocanes. The following year, they become floricanes, which bear flowers and fruit before dying back.
“Especially hard hit were the new primocanes that were already 5 to 6 feet tall,” Massey said. “These canes were shredded at the tops leaving a lot of open surface area. These will need to be pruned so they have a clean cut and a fungicide application would be wise to prevent infection.”
Amanda McWhirt, extension specialist-horticulture crops for the Division of Agriculture, said growers “will need to keep the plants healthy with irrigation, fertility and pest management,” adding that surviving plants will likely require less fertilizer since they have no fruit.
However, there is some hope for blackberry growers.
“This year's fruiting floricanes can produce new shoots that could try and compensate for some of the upper plant loss,” Massey said. “So, there is a chance they get some berries later in the season, but it won't be a huge flush.”
The blackberries were showing their toughness after Dozier worked on the plants for a couple of weeks.
“I’ve got new growth, from 2- to 10 inches high right now and that will save next year’s crop,” he said.
Other crops
Massey said one Springdale area orchard saw moderate leaf damage to grape vines and apple trees, but he didn’t see much damage to developing apples.
 “As far as other specialty crops, it ended one grower's strawberry season early and damaged some summer vegetable starts like tomato, peppers, and cucurbits, with one farm having its peppers and tomatoes wiped out,”  Massey said. “Onions were damaged and torn but some may have been far enough along to limp through and get some harvest, and possibly the same scenario on some potatoes.”
Massey said the destruction “certainly is a major setback for both those U-pick berry growers as their season is pretty much done, not to mention having enough for farmer's market sales.”
“Another challenge would be for growers who have Community Supported Agriculture subscription boxes. People have paid up front for, say, a 12-week subscription of vegetables,” he said. “This damage could limit the diversity of vegetables they can provide each week, and it could delay crops they would normally be adding to summer CSA's if things like tomatoes, peppers, and cucurbits are having to be replanted.”
The cucurbit family includes cucumbers, watermelons, squash and pumpkins.
“I think most people who participate in a CSA are going to be understanding of this, and the growers are very good about weekly communication with their clientele,” Massey said. “They may have to make some adjustments on the timeframe.”
Dozier’s clients were more than understanding. His farm’s Facebook page had more than 120 comments from customers who expressed sorrow over the losses. One went a step further, “I would love to send the money I would have spent picking blueberries on your farm. It’s just a small way some of us could help.”
Dozier said the farm isn’t his family’s sole income. He and his wife, both retired from other jobs, still have a pension. The family declined the client’s offer to help raise money. “We are fine. God just has a different plan for our summer!”
Food system fragility and the role of small growers
“This storm was a hard hit for many local growers and clearly highlights the vulnerabilities of specialty crop production, but it also underscores the strength of community, and the importance of Farm Bill supports like crop insurance and infrastructure investment,” said Amanda Philyaw Perez, associate professor and food systems and safety extension specialist with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
Perez noted that small farms, even those operated part-time or alongside other income streams, are essential to the resilience of local food systems. “Farms that diversify their income, or operate as a secondary profession, may be able to weather short-term losses,” she said. “But they’re also critical in sustaining local markets and food access, especially in times of broader disruption.”
She emphasized that the next Farm Bill is an opportunity to strengthen support for these growers through more accessible crop insurance, disaster relief, and investments in on-farm infrastructure.
“Investing in diversified, community-based food systems enhances long-term food security,” Perez said. “These farms keep food closer to home, maintain soil and land stewardship, and provide stability when national supply chains falter due to extreme weather or other shocks.”
“The community response shows how relationships built around local food go beyond transactions,” she added. “These growers are embedded in the fabric of their communities. But even strong communities need better tools to bounce back, and that means making sure small and specialty growers aren’t left behind when policy decisions are made.”
Crop insurance
Dozier had crop insurance, but not all those affected did. His Farm Service Agency representative already surveyed the crop damage. During Farm Bill hearings in 2022, growers called for stronger safety nets for specialty crop growers like Dozier.
Crops weren’t his only losses though. Hail broke windows in his barn, damaged roofs and downed a dozen trees, including one on a fence.
“It was a big disaster,” he said.
Farmers helping farmers
Massey said that in his rounds, he saw “farmers who were not hit — though they barely dodged tornadoes the day after — come out and help folks that were.”
“I spent half the day Thursday after the storms at Sunny Acres Farms helping rebuild about four planting beds, and getting some fresh pepper starts into the field,” he said. “I learned of the opportunity from another specialty crop grower and part of his crew that I work with who had volunteered to go help clean up and rebuild the damaged beds at their neighbor's farm.
“There is solidarity in that and especially among the growers, sharing resources, sharing time and labor, and being a community,” Massey said.
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USDA approves Sanders' waiver to bansoft drinks, candy from Food Stamps
On Tuesday, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins signed Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ waiver to ban soft drinks and candy from Arkansas’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also referred to as food stamps. Governor Sanders submitted her waiver in April. The State will use the GS1 US food categorization system to implement these policy changes. “This approval sends a clear message: President Trump and his administration are tackling America’s chronic disease epidemic and Arkansas stands with him in that fight,” said Governor Sanders in a statement. “I am incredibly grateful for Secretary Rollins’ quick approval of our waiver. Arkansas leads the nation in getting unhealthy, ultra-processed foods off food stamps and helping our most vulnerable citizens lead healthier lives.” Food stamps are a $119 billion federal program designed to supplement the lowest-income Americans’ nutritional needs. However, about 23% of food stamp spending – $27 billion annually – now goes toward soft drinks, unhealthy snacks, candy, and desserts. One-third of Arkansans have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Studies have consistently shown the link between the overconsumption of sugary, highly processed foods like soft drinks and candy and chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. One study from Stanford found that just banning sugary drinks from food stamps could prevent obesity in 141,000 kids and Type 2 diabetes in 240,000 adults. Earlier this year, Governor Sanders signed SB59 into law, providing every student in Arkansas with free school breakfast. The legislation also repurposes Medical Marijuana tax revenue to ensure both Summer EBT and Arkansas’ free lunch and breakfast programs are fully funded into the future. Governor Sanders previously announced Arkansas will continue its Summer EBT program this year after serving 260,000 last summer. The Governor previously signed legislation to provide free school lunches for students who previously qualified for reduced-price meals.

Arrest Reports: 06/10

Wilfer Anien of Berryville- Breaking or EnteringX2, Theft X2. 

Jordan Julios of Lincoln- Failure to Appear-Misd. 

Randy Burelang of Huntsville- Contempt of Court, Failure to Appear. 

Kevin Patterson of Bentonville- Failure to Appear. 

Shane Russell of Benton- Failure to Appear-Misd. 

Laura Scott of Fayetteville- Failure to Appear. 

Matracia Spicer of Grove- Failure to Appear. 

There are currently 83 inmates housed at the Carroll County Detention Center. 
For more information visit the
 Carroll County Sheriff's Department
 website - Click Here

News for Tuesday, June 10,2025

Groundbreaking held for state's new crime lab
NORTH LITTLE ROCK - On June 6, 2025, the Arkansas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officially broke ground on a new, state-of-the-art Arkansas State Crime Laboratory (ASCL) in North Little Rock. This marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to modernize and expand its forensic science capabilities, better serving Arkansans.
“The opportunity to build a new Arkansas State Crime Laboratory is truly once in a lifetime – a moment that will shape the future of forensic science in our state for decades. We understand the critical role our laboratory has on the lives of Arkansans we serve, often during their most difficult and vulnerable moments,” said ASCL Director Dr. Theodore Brown. “This new facility represents more than just a building; it’s a commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science. Our team is dedicated to meeting the highest standards of science, quality, and service, and we are confident that the new laboratory will not only support our mission – it will elevate it. We are honored to serve the people of Arkansas and are inspired about the future we are building together.”
In April 2024, DPS announced the purchase of the nearly 19-acre property located between 5301 Northshore Drive and 5300 Northshore Cove for $4.095 million. Earlier in January 2024, the Arkansas Legislative Council approved ASCL’s request for funding to cover the land purchase.
Once completed, the new crime lab will be a 190,000-square-foot facility equipped with the latest forensic technology and infrastructure. This upgrade will enhance the lab’s ability to conduct scientific analyses and investigations, aiding in crime-solving efforts across the state.
“We understand that many people hope they never have to rely on the criminal justice system, but if the need arises, it’s vital that they can trust it to serve them effectively,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar. “Our goal is to ensure that our citizens feel supported and know that we are committed to making the necessary investments to provide the best possible service. We truly believe that this facility will help us achieve that mission.”
The ASCL analyzes evidence from crime scenes and conducts forensic examinations of deaths to support investigations. It offers a wide range of services, including forensic pathology, toxicology, drug analysis, DNA analysis, ballistics, digital evidence processing, and latent fingerprint identification.
Established in 1981, the current Arkansas State Crime Laboratory has provided forensic science services to law enforcement in Arkansas for more than forty years. It has reached capacity, prompting the need for a new, larger, and more advanced laboratory to continue delivering and expanding forensic science services.
Nabholz Construction is the general contractor and WER Architects designed the $200 million project, which is expected to be completed in 2027.
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39th Annual Berryville Ice Cream SocialReturns this weekend in downtown Berryville
BERRYVILLE - Summer officially begins this weekend with the highly anticipated 39th Annual Berryville Ice Cream Social, returning to the historic downtown square on Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14 .
The weekend promises a true community festival with something for everyone:
Homemade Ice Cream Contest — A popular new addition this year invites local families and ice cream aficionados to submit their best homemade flavors for judging 
Live Music & Entertainment — Several local bands will fill the air with upbeat tunes as visitors enjoy food, craft vendors, children’s games, and inflatable bounce houses 
Local brewery presence — Tractor Beverage Co. returns as a featured provider for refreshments and festivities 
Library Engagement — The Berryville Public Library hosts “ExperiMentals on the Go” under its tent, offering hands-on science activities for kids between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday .
Activities will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday.
A volunteer-run celebration, aided by sponsors like Kinetic, Mercy Clinic, Arvest Bank, Walmart Berryville, and others, ensures the event remains a beloved, free-to-attend hometown tradition.
Nestled in the heart of Berryville, this social celebration marks 39 years of summer, family, and community. It’s the perfect weekend to enjoy sunshine, laughter, homemade treats, and friendly competition.
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2025 District Farm Families announced
LITTLE ROCK — The 78th annual Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program has announced its eight district farm families, encompassing the breadth of Arkansas agriculture, the state’s largest industry.
Judges will visit these farms to determine the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year, who will be announced Dec. 12.
The District Farm Families of the Year are:
East Central District: the Mitchell family of Des Arc (Prairie County) – Brothers Drew (Audrey) and Luke (Elise) Mitchell have been farming for 10 years. They grow rice, corn and soybeans on nearly 4,000 acres. Drew and Audrey have four children: Baylor, Anniston, Rivia and Laken. Luke and Elise have one child: Lyndon. North Central District: the Henley family of Evening Shade (Sharp County) – Bryan and Mary Ellen Henley have been farming for 20 years. They raise cattle and grow hay on more than 500 acres. They have two children: Audra and Addley. Northeast District: the Dilldine family of Blytheville (Mississippi County) – Dalton and Skiver Dilldine operate Dilldine Farms, marking 99 years of the family’s multi-generational operation. They grow cotton, soybeans, rice and corn on nearly 6,000 acres. They have one child: Daphne. Northwest District: the Spears family of Fayetteville (Washington County) – Randy and Dawna Spears have been farming for 45 years, with the help of their adult children. The raise cattle and sell direct-to-consumer beef, and grow silage and hay on more than 1,000 acres. Southeast District: the Hoover family of Monticello (Drew County) – Charles and Carolyn Hoover have been farming for 49 years. They raise cattle and grow hay on more than 900 acres, along with operating a logging business. They have two adult children who assist with the farm. Southwest District: the Lockeby family of Ashdown (Little River County) – Shane & Kim Lockeby have been farming for nine years alongside their adult children and spouses. In addition to raising poultry, they grow hay and pecans on more than 600 acres. West Central District: the Smith family of Dierks (Howard County) – Jared and Cathren Smith have been farming for 17 years. They raise cattle and poultry on nearly 250 acres. They have two children: Cooper and Clara. Western District: the Staton family of Magazine (Logan County) – Bruce and Laura Staton have been farming for 53 years with the help of their two adult children. They raise cattle and grow hay on more than 1,000 acres.Beginning with the selection of top farm families in each county, the Farm Family of the Year program comes to a close in December with the selection of the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. The Arkansas Farm Family will go on to represent the state at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year competition. Arkansas has three Southeast Farmer of the Year winners, Brian and Nan Kirksey (Clark County), 2008; Wildy Family Farms (Mississippi County), 2016; and the Cobb, Lyerly and Owen Family/Partnership (Craighead County), 2023.
Families are judged on farm production, efficiency, management, family life and rural/community leadership.
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State Capitol Week in Review
By Senator Bryan B. King
Arkansas ranks first in the nation in election integrity, according to the most recent study by the Heritage Foundation.
Last year Arkansas ranked number eight. At a press conference at the Capitol, the Governor, the Secretary of State and members of the legislature announced the newest ranking.
They attributed the state’s moving up in the rankings to prioritizing in recent years the passage of laws that secure the integrity of voter registration and processing ballots.
According to one senator, the Heritage Foundation rankings have long been the gold standard for comparing how well states prevent voter fraud.
Arkansas scored 91 out of 100 on the recent scorecard, including 20 out of 20 in the category of voter ID implementation. We scored three out of three in granting access to election observers, four out of four in verification of citizenship of voters, three out of three in requiring identification of people who assist others to vote and three out of three in prohibiting election officials from receiving pay or benefits from private sources.
Arkansas scored six out of six in how we monitor voter registration to prevent fraud. For example, Arkansas does not allow registration on the same day as elections. Requiring voter registration ahead of an election allows more time to verify the accuracy of applications.
However, Arkansas scored 26 out of 28 in the category that measured the accuracy of voter registration lists. One negative score was for not including photographs of voters on the lists of registered voters, where they are kept electronically.
The legislature’s approval of Act 840 of 2025 may correct a negative score in the Heritage rankings. The act allows the Secretary of State to share voter registration lists with federal courts, which use them for jury selection. In return, the courts will notify the state of ineligible voters such as non-citizens, convicted felons, dead people or non-residents of the state.
The Heritage Foundation scorecard did not include a package of bills enacted earlier this year that prevent  deceptive practices when canvassers collect signatures in order to place an issue on the ballot.
However, the governor specifically mentioned several of them, such as Act 218 of 2025 to require canvassers to inform people, before collecting their signatures, that petition fraud is a Class A misdemeanor. The disclosure could be verbal, or in a separate written document that would be shown to people before they sign.
She also mentioned Act 240 to require canvassers to view a photo ID of each person signing the petition. If canvassers are unable to verify someone’s identity, they may not collect a signature.
The governor mentioned another bill that strengthens the protections of the signature-gathering process - Act 241. It requires canvassers to submit a sworn statement that they have complied with all state laws governing the collection of signatures, and with the Constitution. Unless canvassers submit the sworn statements, any signatures they submit will not be counted.
The Secretary of State listed measures to ensure the accuracy of voter registration lists, such as partnering with credit bureaus to determine that people actually live where they say they do on applications. Agreements with other states reveal whether people are registered in more than one state.

Arrest Reports: 06/09

Alex Bevil of Springdale- Contempt of Court,Failure to Appear-Misd. 

James Bowen of Punta Gorda, FL- DWI#!, Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test. 

Feliciano Corona-Medina of Green Fores- Domestic Battering in the Third Degree. 

Dustin Davis of Stilwell-Driving While Intoxicated, Fleeing-Misd. 

Joshua Parson of Eagle Rock-Terroristic Threatening. 

Cherie Varley of Branson-Public Intoxication, Theft by Rec X2. 

There are currently 83 inmates housed at the Carroll County Detention Center. 
For more information visit the
 Carroll County Sheriff's Department
 website - Click Here

News for Monday, June 9,2025

Former police chief who escapedfrom prison re-apprehended on Friday
A former Arkansas police chief was recaptured Friday after nearly two weeks after his escape from a state prison, where he was serving decadeslong sentences for murder and rape.
Grant Hardin escaped on May 25 from the Calico Rock prison by donning an outfit designed to look like a law enforcement uniform, said officials with the Izard County Sheriff's Office.
In a statement Friday, Sheriff Brandon Long said Hardin was apprehended at about 3:45 p.m. "just a short distance" from the prison.
Arkansas law enforcement officers and the U.S. Border Patrol located Hardin near Moccasin Creek in Izard County, roughly a mile and a half west of the prison's North Central Unit, the Arkansas Department of Corrections said. Tracking dogs were able to pick up a scent in the area.
Law enforcement officials said they confirmed his identity by fingerprint analysis before notifying the public.
Hardin had been held at the prison since 2017 after pleading guilty to first-degree murder for fatally shooting 59-year-old James Appleton. The fatal shooting happened following Hardin's brief time as the police chief of the small town of Gateway, Arkansas.
He was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder.
Hardin's DNA was then matched to the 1997 rape of a teacher at an elementary school in northwestern Arkansas. He pleaded guilty to two counts of rape and was sentenced to 25 years in prison for each count, for a total sentence of 50 years.
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Berryville Library hosts Summer Reading Program
It's not too late to sign up for the Berryville Library Summer Reading Program, which kicked off with a big splash and a bit of wonder on June 2 with a magical balloon show. Special programs, open to all ages, run now through July 25 and feature varied events and activities each week. Each Monday, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center, enjoy special performances such as Wonders of Wildlife, an electrifying magic show, a World of Raptor show plus much, much more!   All are welcome to attend and a complete schedule of shows is available at the library. Wednesdays and Fridays are hands-on learning and activities with Wednesdays being all about the tools and giving those 8 years and older a chance to try out various tools like sewing machines and 3D printers! Friday mornings will be Blue Ribbon Daze featuring crafts that can be made and entered into the county fair in September.   Tuesdays and Thursdays offer special playground storytimes for the little ones at the City Pool Park and the Berryville Community Center's playground.  Be sure to check the schedule for times and locations. For more information and a complete list of events, stop by the library to pick up a schedule or check us out online at berryvillelibrary.org. ---
Senator King calls for Governor to stoppromoting DEI initiatives in Arkansas
Submitted by Senate Information Office
LITTLE ROCK - The governor should follow hers and the legislature’s own rules and the state of Arkansas should terminate multi-million dollar contracts to promote DEI policies that enrich "woke" companies, Senator Bryan B. King of Green Forest said Friday.
The governor and the state Board of Correction have pushed through plans for construction of a new prison unit in southern Franklin County, and have chosen companies that actively brag about their policies of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), King said.
The state of Arkansas should not award multi-million contracts to promote DEI policies and enrich “woke” companies, King said.
The governor and the state Board of Correction have pushed through plans for construction of a new prison unit in southern Franklin County, and have chosen companies that actively brag about their policies of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), King said.
“They say they’re against government programs that give preference to certain groups, but judging by their actions they don’t care when it’s their chosen friends who get the preferential treatment,” King said.
“In the 2025 legislative session we passed Act 938 and Act 747 to do away with DEI programs in local government and to repeal preferential treatment in government,” King said. “In the 2023 session we passed Act 411 to stop government pension funds from investing in companies that use environmental, social justice, or governance related metrics.”
Other state policies against DEI are in provisions of the newly enacted ACCESS Act, which prohibits indoctrination in higher education.
“Arkansas elected officials have made clear that they are against DEI programs and using tax dollars to benefit certain groups of people at the expense of others,” King said. “That’s why prison officials should not award multi-million contracts to companies that openly and proudly boast of their DEI policies.”
The companies are Vanir Construction Management, Inc. of Sacramento, California and JE Dunn of Kansas City. Vanir has been awarded a contract valued at up to $16.5 million to be a liaison between the state and the construction firms chosen to build the proposed prison. JE Dunn is one of the general contractors chosen for the prison, which is estimated to cost a minimum of $825 million.
Here are samples of JE Dunn’s policy on diversity, taken from its web site. “We strive to promote inclusion in all aspects of our business, celebrating all aspects of diversity of our associates…”.
“In 2020, CEO Gordon Lansford took the CEO Action Pledge to build productive, diverse, and inclusive workplaces. The CEO Action Pledge is the largest business commitment to advance diversity and inclusion in the workplace.”
Here is a link to the web page: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - JE Dunn Construction
Here is a sample of Vanir’s policy:
At Vanir, we understand that our employees are our most valuable asset. As such, we are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion by embracing and encouraging differences in: Race, Ethnicity, National origin, Religion, Gender, gender identity or expression, Age, Family or marital status, Language, Physical and mental ability, Political affiliation, Sexual orientation, Socioeconomic background or status, Military or veteran status, Other characteristics that make our employees unique.
After all, it is the collective sum of these characteristics, together with our unique life experiences, knowledge, innovation, self-expression and capabilities, that has led to the immense success of our company, people, programs and projects.
Here is a link to the page on Vanir’s web site: https://www.vanir.com/about-us/our-people/
King is one of many skeptics who believe the prison will cost much more to build, and will be a financial burden on the state for decades because the site in southern Franklin County is so unsuitable for a prison. It lacks an adequate workforce, and prisons are labor intensive. It lacks every category of necessary infrastructure, such as water, sewer, utilities and access to roads. The state purchased the land for $2.95 million before conducting any studies of its suitability, and before informing local officials of the plan.
“These contracts have already gone through Legislative Council, but the governor and the Board should not award them,” King said. “It’s never too late to follow the spirit of the law.”
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Kiwanis hosting youth fishing derby
BERRYVILLE - The Berryville Kiwanis Club is hosting its annual Youth Fishing Derby this Saturday, June 14.
The derby will take place at George's Fishing Pond, located at 200 Hanby Avenue, with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. The event will be held from 9-10 a.m. and will include hot dogs, drinks, prizes and trophies. The event is completely free to attend. 

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