Workforce Speaks to BCEDC

During the regular monthly meeting of the Bradley County Economic Development Corporation's board of directors, staff of the Department of Workforce Services made a presentation.  The lead staff person was Nancy Jones.  She and other members of the department provided an overview of workforce programs, including unemployment services and efforts to help individuals find jobs.

In addition to reviewing the financial statement, the board voted to host the Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition meeting to be held September, 26th.  The event will begin at 11:30 A.M. on the 26th and should be attended by 15-20 representatives from the five counties of southeast Arkansas.

According to the BCEDC financial statement, the organization has current assets of $264,400.26.  Income for use by the corporation comes from public and private sources with the largest amount being paid by the City of Warren at the rate of $5000.00 per month.  The city and corporation operate under an annual contract.  In addition to the $5000.00 per month payment, the city is paying $2942.09 to make payments on a 40,000 square foot spec building located in the city industrial park.  The funding provided by the city comes from the city's one cent sales tax, designated by the city council for economic development.

SEACAC Board Meeting

Southeast Arkansas Community Action Corporation Governing Board of Directors will meet in their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 20, 2016.  The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will be held at the SEACAC Complex located at 1208 North Myrtle Street in Warren.  The meeting is open to the public.  SEACAC serves Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha and Drew Counties in Southeast Arkansas.

Rotarians Hear Program of Masonry Work

Rotarian Samuel St. John had the program for the August 30th meeting of the Warren Rotary Club which was held in the Fellowship Hall of First United Methodist Churc.  Mr. St. John spoke about his career doing masonry work on residential properties to 20+ story high commercial buildings.

LIVE: Watch Warren vs. Little Rock Christian

CLICK HERE TO WATCH WARREN VS. LITTLE ROCK CHRISTIAN LIVE AT 7:30pm CST TUESDAY.

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David Wilkerson Named To Hermitage School Board

JP Alton Richard swears in David Wilkerson.

The first item of business for the Hermitage School Board called meeting conducted August, 29th was the appointment of David Wilkerson to a vacancy on the board.  Mr. Wilkerson will represent Zone 3.  Immediately after the unanimous vote to appoint him, Wilkerson was sworn in by Justice of the Peace Alton Richard.

In other business the board listened to a presentation from Chad Hale with Midwest Bus Sales.  Mr. Hale made a proposal to lease the Hermitage District a school bus at a cost of $15,100.00 per year for three years.  The bus is a 2017 model and seats 77.  It has air conditioner, luggage compartment and cameras.  Under the terms of the lease, a warranty will cover all repairs during the three year period of time, except for normal oil changes and regular maintenance.  Most of the warranty work, if needed, can be completed in El Dorado according to Mr. Hale.

After discussing the benefits of leasing and asking several questions, the board voted to lease the bus at a cost of $15,100.00 per year for three years.  The mileage is not to exceed 17,000 per year.  At the end of the lease the district may lease another bus or purchase it at market value.  The bus is to be used as a trip bus and will not be used for normal school routes unless needed in an emergency.  It should be received in about six weeks.

In one other item of business, the board approved a transfer of a school employee.  Erandi Acuchi was approved to work in the cafeteria and 30 minutes per day as a para-pro.  

Power House to Celebrate 84th Anniversary

Power House will celebrate their 84th anniversary September 2 - September 4.  Special guests for the event will be Evangelist Dayle Jones of Toronto, Canada.  The schedule of services is as follows: Friday, Sept. 2, Worship  Service at 7:00 p.m.; Saturday night, September 3, Musical at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday morning. September 4, Morning Worship at 10:45 a.m. and church anniversary celebration at 3:00 p.m.  James Yarbrough is the pastor and LaToya Yarbrough is the First Lady.

Arrest Report: August 29, 2016

The following are innocent until proven guilty:

LaKedra Warner, 415 W. Central, Warren, AR  71671, age 27, charged with battery 1st (8-22-16)

Abram Romero, 318 Park Lane, Warren, AR 71671, age 26, charged with driving on suspended license, no insurance, arrested on warrant (8-22-16)

Vertrell Davis, 203 S. Bradley, Warren, AR  71671, age 44, arrested on warrant, 30 days jail time (8-25-16)

James Henry Land, 208 Cemetery Ste., Warren, AR  71671, arrested on warrant, charged with driving on suspended license, 5 days jail time (8-24-16)

Jeffery Ingram, 39 Pinewood Dr., Warren, AR  71671, age 42, arrested on warrant x2, charged with criminal trespassing (8-26-16)

Kyeatia Leonard, 713 McCauley, Warren, AR., age 24, charged with driving on suspended license (8-26-16)

D'Angelo McCoy, 107 Phillips St., Warren, AR  71671, age 19 charged with driving on suspended license, arrested on warrant (8-26-16)

Dacris Lawson, 504 Rock St., Warren, AR 71671, age 46, charged with criminal trespassing, fleeing on foot, criminal impersonation, and arrested on warrant (8-26-16)

LaKisha Davis, 316 Coruthers St., Warren, AR  71671, age 43, arrested on warrant x2 (8-26-16)

Benjamin Clay Foster, 1678 Highway 371 W, Nashville, AR, age 43, charged with driving on suspended license, arrested on warrant (8-27-16)

Christopher Triplett, 236 Wheeler St., Warren, AR  71671, body attachment (8-27-16)

Stacey McKinstry, 185 Bradley 49 S., Wilmar, AR 71671, age 42, charged with driving on suspended license)

Library to Offer FREE Kidney Smart Class

Kidney Smart will be offering a FREE class at Warren Branch Library, Thursday, September 8 @ 2:00 pm.  You will learn: How to create an action plan to manage your health, What causes kidney disease, What diet resources can help you manage your diet, Why continuing to work may keep you happier and healthier, & How insurance counselors can help you navigate coverage.
You can register at KidyneySmart.org/Class or call 1-88-MYKIDNEY

Race to the Fair

Pre-registration ends next Friday, September 2 for the annual 5K Race/Walk to the Fair and One Mile Fun Walk/Run to be held at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds September 10 at 8:00 a.m.  All pre-registered participants will receive a t-shirt, participation medal, "Goody" bag and door prizes will be awarded.  The race is sponsored by FBT Bank & Mortgage and applications are available at both Fordyce and Rison locations along with Warren Bank West in Warren and the Cleveland County Herald office in Rison.  All proceeds go to the fund the Cleveland County Fair to be held September 13-17th in Rison.  Contact Patricia McClellan at pcmcclellan13@gmail.com or 901-606-4162 for additional information.

Fair Catalogs Now Available

It’s Fair time in Bradley County and the 2016 Bradley County Fair and Livestock Show catalogs and entry tags are ready.  Catalogs are available at the Bradley County Cooperative Extension Office, located at 100 East First Street in Warren.  Pre-registration for the Home Economics Division Exhibits is encouraged and may be done at the county Extension Office from 8:00 a.m.-noon and 1:00-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

For more information, you may contact the County Extension Office at 870-226-8410.  The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution.  If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate or need materials in another format, please contact your County Extension office as soon as possible. Dial 711 for Arkansas Relay.

Hospital Board Member Resigns

Stating that he had served almost 20 years on the Bradley County Medical Center Board feeling that it is time to conclude his service on the board, Lathan Hairston submitted his resignation to the board by letter.  The announcement was made by board Chairman Freddie Mobley during the August 25, 2016 monthly board meeting.  Mr. Mobley stated that Mr. Hairston went on to say he was not unhappy or that no problems exist that caused him to step down.  According to Mr. Mobley, Mr. Hairston just feels it is time.  Anew appointment will have to be made in the future.

In regular board business, Brandon Gorman presented the financial reports and the home health care statistics.  He also reported on the hospital sales tax fund.  It has a balance of around $1.7 million.

On motion by Dr. Wharton, the board approved the following medical staff recommendations:
Ian Birkett, M.D., RAPA
Robin Bohra, M.D., Emergency Medicine/ESS
S. Killeen DesLauriers, M.D., OB/Gyn
Michael Flick, M.D., RAPA
Ioana Irime, M.D., Emergency Medicine/ESS
Andrew Kumpuris, M.D., Cardiology
Perkins Mukunyadzi, M.D., Arkansas Pathology
Muhammad Yusef, M.D., Emergency Medicine/ESS

Chief Nursing Officer, Tiffany Holland updated the board on the nursing staff and indicated that several job openings exist, including in ER and labor and delivery.  She stated that some contract nurses are being used to fill in.

Administrator Rex Jones provided and executive report.  He told the board a new agreement has been reached with the radiology firm that will save the hospital over $100,000.00 per year.  He reported on a meeting with the ambulance provider for Bradley County and indicated it went well and he hoped issues of finding locations out in the county in a timely fashion will be improved.  It was noted that one of the causes of a slow response to a call was that a state highway was improperly marked.  Mr. Jones updated the board on OB coverage and office upgrades within the hospital.  Staff will be relocated to the new offices from the building across the street from the hospital that will be demolished in the future.

The administrator also stated that plans are proceeding on planning for a new doctors clinic to be constructed sometime in 2017.  The new clinic will house a new family doctor.

The board elected Joe Don Greenwood as Vice President and Treasurer of the board to fill the two positions previously held by Lathan Hairston. 

Two Men Arrested In Animal Cruelty Case

According to the Bastrop Police Department, two individuals who were wanted in connection with an animal cruelty case widely reported on social media have been arrested.

Below is the official statement released by the Bastrop Police Department's facebook page:

The Bastrop Police Department has arrested Boots Stanley w/m and Steven Sadler w/m in connection with the complaint this department received on yesterday 8-24-2016 to Sgt. Carl Givens with the Detective Division. Both subjects have each been arrested with 1 count of Cruelty to Animals- Aggravated and 1 count of Conspiracy. The warrants were obtained through 4th District Court and these two subjects were booked at the Morehouse Parish Jail. 
Thank you for all assistance from the Ashley County Sheriff's Office, Morehouse Parish Sheriff's Office, and Hamburg Police Dept.

Chief Allen Campbell

Authorities Searching for Two Men in Animal Cruelty Case

Photo courtesy of Hanna Gospin's facebook page.

According to authorities of the Drew County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in Arkansas and Louisiana are searching for two men who are wanted in connection to an animal cruelty case.  The two men are Boots Stanley and Steven Sadler, both residents of Arkansas, though the incident took place in Morehouse Parish, Louisiana.  The search began after many reports of the two men abusing a dog in a video.  In the video, the dog has a collar with a rope around its neck.  The man in the video is seen putting the dog on the back of a horse as well as taking a knife to the throat of the dog and killing it.  The Ashley County Sheriff's Department has released a statement that they are aware of the video and ask people to hold calls to report the video.  However, all authorities could use help in finding these two men. 

M.D. Jirous and Barbara Jirous Foundation Donates $2500 to WHS

Mr. Greg Skowronski, owner of the local Sonic, presents $2500 to Warren High School Student Council President Jakrya Miller while a group of fellow students watch.  In the group of students are:  Kalex Miller, Jacob Hicks, Imaury Hamilton, Omar Villareal, Parker St. John, Jose Torres, Khadijah Marks, Haley McDaniel, and Yaireth Tapia

Mr. Greg Skowronski, owner of the local Sonic, presented a check to Warren High School in the amount of $2500.00.  Accepting the donation on behalf of the student body was WHS Student Council President Jakrya Miller along with a number of WHS students.  The contribution was made by the M.D. Jirous and Barbara Jirous Foundation.  The Jirous Foundation enjoys giving back to communities.

A donation of this amount has been presented to Warren High School for at least the past four years. In the past, it has been used to purchase choir robes, help fund homecoming, and more.  The funds will be used for needs of Warren High School students.

Sentences Approved In Criminal Cases

Three separate criminal cases before the Bradley County Circuit Court, resulted in negotiated pleas during court conducted August, 22nd.  Judge Sam Pope presided in each case and approved the sentences.

1. Michael Wayne Florence-sentenced to 36 months probation and required to pay restitution for residential burglary and theft by receiving.

2.  Detraveone L. Simmons-84 months in the department of corrections and 84 months additional suspended.  The charges were for fleeing and possession of cocaine and meth with purpose of delivering.

3.  Deidrick Morris Calbert-Probation revoked and sentenced to 24 months in community corrections.  Charges were for breaking and entering.

UAM's Master's Programs Ranked Among Nation's Best

            MONTICELLO, AR — The master’s degree programs in education and creative writing at the University of Arkansas at Monticello have been ranked among the nation’s 10 best values for online master’s degree programs by two online clearinghouses for prospective master’s and doctoral students.
            UAM’s master of education degree program was ranked ninth nationally by GradSource.com while the master of fine arts program was ranked ninth nationally by GreatCollegeDeals.com as of the best online and low residency master’s degree programs nationwide.
            “This is wonderful news for both our education and creative writing programs,” said UAM Chancellor Karla Hughes. “I continue to be so proud of the academic quality of this institution. This speaks volumes about the efforts of our faculty to deliver programs equal to or better than those found at colleges and universities across the country.”

More Goods Being Collected for Relief for Flood Victims

Roland Blanchard has announced that he will be delivering a load of goods to Louisiana flood victims on Friday, August 26.  Anyone interested in making donations may contact him at 870-466-8440 or drop them off at the office of Attny. Bruce Anderson.  He has a place to store goods in Banks until the delivery.  The goods will be delivered to United Way.

Watch Week Three of Chop Talk Tonight At 9pm CST

CLICK HERE TO WATCH CHOP TALK LIVE.
Have a Lumberjack related question for Rob and Ryan?  Text it to 870-820-2894.

Donald W. Reynolds Y Receives $6000 from Armstrong Flooring Foundation

Employees of the Armstrong-Witt Hardwood Flooring Plant were on hand Tuesday August, 23rd to present a check in the amount of $6000.00 to the Donald W. Reynolds YMCA of Warren and Bradley County.  Also present were YMCA staff and Mr. John Nazzaro, President of the "Heart of Arkansas United Way."  The money goes to Y's operating fund.

Pictured are: front row L-R  Tammy Jones, Marty Reep, John Nazzaro, Heather Nicole Tittle;
back row L-R  Keith VanDee, Jorge Miranda, David Richey, Bart Goodwin, Stacie Stone.

The funds donated are from the Armstrong Flooring Foundation and are given through the United Way.  Armstrong is a strong supporter of the Warren community and the Donald W. Reynolds YMCA.

Calls Answered By Warren Fire Department

During the past week the Warren Fire Department answered three calls for assistance.  The first was on August, 17th to a false alarm on N. Martin Street.  On August, 20th the department responded to two calls.  One at 604 Hankins around 1:26 A.M., which turned out to be smoke from a stove, and another for a downed power line near 402 N. Etheridge.  No major damage or injuries resulted form any of the calls.

Ashcraft, Gray, and Adams Serve as Jr. Rotarians

Payton Ashcraft, Magnus Gray, and Logan Adams are serving as Jr. Rotarians this period.

Warren Rotary Clubmet Tuesday, August 23rd in the Fellowship Hall of First United Methodist Church and were excited to have their first group of Junior Rotarians from Warren High School.   Payton Ashcraft, Magnus Gray, and Logan Adams earned the invitation to serve as Jr. Rotarians through their outstanding academic excellence and their exemplary discipline records.  They will join the Rotary Club each Tuesday for a month to learn more about being civic-minded.

Rotarian Bob Smalling and his guests Donna Lawhon and John Lipton of BCEDC.

Rotarian Bob Smalling invited Donna Lawhon and John Lipton from the Bradley County Economic Development Corporation to speak about the importance of Bradley County becoming an "ACT Work Ready Community".

Watch Warren vs. McGehee Scrimmage On-Demand

CLICK HERE TO WATCH WARREN VS. MCGEHEE SCRIMMAGE GAME ON-DEMAND.

Please note:  You will be required to subscribe to watch.  Good news: If you decide to subscribe for the $50 plan to watch this game on-demand, you will also gain access to the entire 2016 season of Lumberjack Football LIVE.

Arrest Report: August 22, 2016

The following are innocent until proven guilty:

Phillip Hays, 1505 US 63 S., Warren, AR., age 30, charged with domestic battery 3rd and disorderly conduct (8-15-16)

Terry W. Adams, 215 Bradley 16, Warren, AR., age 33, arrested on a warrant (8-16-16)

Holly Temple, 1205 S. Martin, Warren, AR., age 32, charged with disorderly conduct (8-16-16)

Robert W. McCann, 21050 Hwy. 63, Rison, AR., age 28, arrested on a warrant failure to appear and speeding (8-17-16)

Aletha Broughton, 1010 S. Myrtle St., Warren, AR., age 51, charged with shoplifting and instrument of crime (8-19-16)

Terrance York, 606 W. Central, Warren, AR., age 40, charged with driving on suspended license (8-20-16)

Aletha Broughton, 1010 S. Myrtle, Warren, AR., age 51, charged with failure to yield, leaving the scene of an accident, drinking on highway, and shoplifting (8-20-16)

Darren Patton, 601 N. Chestnut, Warren, AR., age 29, arrested on a warrant (8-20-16)

Robert Compton, 2504 Forest Lawn Dr., El Dorado, AR., age 63, charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and fleeing by vehicle (8-20-16)

Bruce James, 507 Howard St., Warren, AR., age 56, arrested on a warrant (8-2-16)

Micah Richey, 406 S. Myrtle, Warren, AR., age 19, charged with DWI, driving left of center, and failure to stop at stop sign (8-22-16)

Man Charged in Oil Spill

Bruce James was issued a citation charging him with three offenses in the late Saturday afternoon spilling of oil throughout several streets and a highway in Warren.  He was charged with obstruction of streets, spilling destructive and injurious material, and spilling on the highway.

Update on Woman Sought in Battery Case

Last week, the Warren Police Department issued a call to the public for assistance in locating LaKedra Warner, who had an active warrant for her arrested on battery charges.  With the help of the public, the police were able to locate the woman.

See what is inside on our other pages...

Want to know who is running for Warren, Hermitage, and Banks city councils?  Check it out on the political page.

Learn how you can get your tickets early for the Football Kickoff Classic to watch the Warren Lumberjacks in action at War Memorial Stadium.

See what is happening at the Warren Library on the Feature Page.

Single Parent Scholarship Applications for Fall Semester Open

The Bradley County Single Parent Schoalrship Fund has the fall semester application open until September 1st.

To apply, visit our website: http://www.aspsf.org/scholarships/find-your-county/bradley/
Resident of Bradley County, Arkansas

Single, head of household with custody of a minor child under the age of 18
A high school graduate or have obtained a GED
Pursuing an undergraduate course of study at a vocational,  2-year, or 4-year institution
Must have completed the FAFSA
Must have and maintain a 2.50 GPA
Must be a full-time student (12+ hours) or part-time student (6-11 hours)
Applicants are required to provide supporting documents, along with a completed scholarship application, by the deadline.

Hermitage Alderman Resigns

During the Hermitage City Council's monthly meeting conducted August 15, 2016, Alderman Frank Ford submitted his resignation and it was accepted by the council.  The reason for the resignation was not listed in the minutes of the meeting.  The minutes did state that Mr. Steve Baker was present for the meeting and that he "had" interest in being on the council.  He may be considered in the future.

Reports were given concerning the water department, the sewer department, street repairs, the fire department and the police department which reported 15 citations issued during July.  There were no fire calls for the month.  The financial statement was presented by Lanette Vines, and it was approved.

Under old business the council was informed that the Arkansas Municipal League health Insurance has to be "piggy backed" with the city of Hampton since Hermitage only has two employees on the program.  Hampton has agreed to the arrangement.

In new business, the council approved to accept Jay Harrod as a city worker for a couple of hours a day to clean ditches and put in culverts at a rate of pay of $25.00 per hour.  the council was informed that ETC Engineers has submitted a letter to ADEQ stating that all corrective actions have been completed.

Aldermen were informed there was one 2014 audit finding.  the city had lent $750.00 to the Hermit Huddle Fund.  State code prohibits such transactions.  The $750.00 was paid back and the city's Hermit Huddle Fund account was closed.  There were no findings for 2015.

The council then voted to transfer $10,000.00 from the depreciation fund to the water operating fund to assist in payment of interior pressure washing and painting of water tank #1.  The city will apply for a grant for another $10,000.00 to pay the total expenses.

An executive session was held to discuss employees.  No action was reported.

$8040 Raised by Local Girl to Help Veterans with PTSD

Shelby Gardner

About a year ago, Shelby Gardner, who is now a 17-year-old senior at Warren High School, approached her parents Chad and Marissa Gardner with her desire to raise funds to go to the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder department at the Veteran's Memorial Hospital in Little Rock.  Shelby's idea was to host a dessert auction to raise funds for care packages for veterans suffering from this disorder.  With the support of her parents, Shelby began organizing the auction by signing up donors to give desserts and even some to make cash contributions.  This normally quiet and reserved young lady, stepped out of her comfort zone and spoke to civic clubs about her project. She sought the support of the local veterans groups, contacted Mike Nichols to serve as auctioneer, and worked to gather a crowd for the silent and live auction.  

The event was held in the fellowship hall of Shelby's church, Central Missionary Baptist on Saturday, August 20. When all the proposed bidders arrived, there was standing room only.  The room was filled with sweet savory aromas of honey bun cakes, peanut butter cakes, apple and cherry pies, cream cheese strawberry cake, and more. The auction was made fun by the auctioneer and bidders proved willing to spend for a great cause.  When the final bid was cast, Shelby had raise $8040.00.

There was standing room only at the Dessert Auction Saturday morning.

But hold on.  She isn't through yet.  Shelby will be at the Bradley County fair selling pulled pork sandwiches to continue to raise money for the veterans.

Her mother, Marissa Gardner, sent this thank you out to all who helped make this worthy cause a great success, "Shelby came to us with an idea a year ago. We started small and her desire for helping those in need only grew larger. Today, we held a Dessert Auction for the Veteran's Memorial Hospital, PTSD Department, in the hopes of raising $1,000. We raised over $8,000. This absolutely would not have been possible without many wonderful people who donated baked goods, everyone who came to our exciting auction, and our great Auctioneer, Mike Nichols. Mike made sure all of the baked goods were sold at fair prices. Shelby's dream came true and everybody's generosity has blown her away and greatly humbled my family. Thank you so very much for your support. We appreciate each and every person that has reached out and helped in every way. "

With sincere gratitude,

Chad, Marisa, Shelby & Dayton Gardner

Left to Right:  Shelby's idea was supported by her whole family.  Her father, Chad Gardner and brother Dayton listen as auctioneer Mike Nichols works the crowd to get top dollar for the cause.

City Employees Called Out to Respond to Oil Spill

City crews worked until midnight putting sand on an oil spill that meandered through several city streets.

According to the Warren Fire Department, a driver pulling a trailer with a 55-gallon drum of oil drove through several streets within the city of Warren spilling oil onto the streets.  The vehicle was entering Warren from the east.  Oil began spilling when he turned onto Clingman Road.  The spill continued as he traveled north on Clingman and when he turned left onto East Cedar Street.  The spill became worse as he turned right onto North Gannaway and continued as he turned left onto Pennington Street and  right onto North Bradley Street, left onto East Pine, and north onto Myrtle Street.

Mayor Martin, the city street crew, fire department, and police department all responded.  Traffic had to be rerouted and sand was put on the oil spill throughout the route of the spill.  The incident was reported around 5:00 p.m.  Crews worked until midnight dispersing the sand.

At this time, the incident is still under investigation.

Don't Miss the Dessert Auction Saturday!!!

Shelby Gardner is hosting a Dessert Auction this Saturday August 20th @ Central Missionary Baptist Fellowship Hall (facing Bond St.).  Doors will open @ 9:30 a.m. with the auction starting at 10:00 a.m.  All proceeds will go to Veterans Memorial Hospital, PTSD Department. Come out and support our Veterans and Shelby!! Check out just a few of the delicious desserts awaiting you at the auction.

Cream Cheese Brownies

Honey Bun Cake

Linda Gardner's Hershey Bar Cake

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Linda Gardner's Strawberry Cake

Called Quorum Court Meeting, Debate About Sheriff's Vehicles

A called meeting of the Bradley County Quorum Court was held Wednesday evening August, 17th.  Seven of the nine JP's were present.  The announced purpose of the meeting was to approve a resolution authorizing the County Judge to apply for a outdoor recreation grant to pay one half of the cost of purchasing land adjacent to the county park for the purpose of expanding the park in the future.  The court approved the resolution by a vote of 7-0.  If the grant is approved in the future, the county would have to come up with something around $121,500.00 to buy the property.

The court then voted 7-0 to waive their pay for the called meeting.

Judge Neely then asked the members to vote to amend the agenda and to add another item to the called meeting.  The Justices voted to do so.

Judge Neely informed the court that at the regular monthly meeting conducted Monday night the 15th of August, the court had approved the purchase of a new sheriff's car to replace a vehicle that was totaled as a result of being damaged by a falling tree during a recent storm.  He indicated he thought the car was to be replace by another car using the insurance money.  The Judge stated he received an invoice for a new truck to replace the car.  He indicated the insurance would pay $25,872.00 and the new truck will cost $27,797.00.  The county will have to pay the difference plus the cost of radios and lights.  He went on to say a car would cost less and there would be sufficient insurance to pay the total price.  He told the court they must decide whether to buy a truck or a car.

Sheriff Rick Anders told the Justices that a truck was more practical and that most sheriffs departments are going to trucks in the rural areas.  Chief Deputy and the presumed sheriff-elect Herschel Tillman agreed with Sheriff Anders.  What followed were a number of questions and comments by several JP's concerning the need for the truck, the difference in the cost of the car vs. the truck,  the overall status of the sheriffs fleet of vehicles and the cost of operation of the car vs. the truck.  Sheriff Anders stated the department has eleven vehicles and only four have under 100,00 miles.

At times there appeared to be some frustration among the court as to the needs and the facts.  Sheriff Anders indicated that he not only needs the new truck but he also needs to purchase another vehicle to replace one of his existing vehicles that have excessive miles and stays in the shop constantly. There was considerable  discourse back and forth among the sheriff, the court and the county judge.

Justice Pat Morman made the motion to buy a new vehicle of the sheriff's choice to replace the car totaled by the tree during the storm.  The cost is to be $27,927.00.  The county will pay any balance in excess of the insurance settlement.  The motion was approved 7-0.

24/7 Corn Dispenser Open On Martin Street

The newest retail business to open in Warren is a corn dispenser that is fully automated.  In other

words it is self serve.  It is located on Martin Street between the tabacco store and the At&T/Life Hospice building.  Those desiring to purchase corn for deer feeding will be able to secure the product at their convenience 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The new business is owned by the Shannon Wilkerson and Rick Reep families.

Warren Police Seeking Woman Suspected of Battery

Lakedra Warner has an active warrant for first degree battery. If anyone knows the whereabouts of this subject, please contact the Warren Police Department at 870-226-3703.

AAD ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NATIONAL ORGANIC COST SHARE REIMBURSEMENT

Little Rock, Ark. – The Arkansas Agriculture Department (AAD) is now accepting applications for the 2016 Certified Organic Cost Share Reimbursement Program. Organic certification fees paid between the dates of October 1, 2015 – September 20, 2016 are eligible for reimbursement. If you would like to apply, please submit a completed application along with required documents (included in the application), located at www.aad.arkansas.gov.

Reimbursement is available for companies who have been certified by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved certifying agent. The AAD administers the USDA National Organic Program’s Organic Certification Cost Share Reimbursement through funding provided by the USDA Farm Bill. Learn more about the USDA Cost Share Reimbursement Program at: https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/occsp

Contact Melissa Lambert with questions about the application and/or reimbursement process at 501-683-4851.

The AAD is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation.  Learn more about the AAD by visiting www.aad.arkansas.gov. 

Holy Hill to Host 1st Annual Musical

Holy Hill Church of God in Christ, located at 7447 Bradley 1 N, Banks, AR,  will be hosting their 1st Annual Musical which will be held Sunday, August 28, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.  The guest speaker for the event will be Elder Rodney Henderson of Holy Temple Church of God in Christ of Monticello, AR.  The theme is "Sing unto the Lord a new song."  Psams 98:1-4.  Supt. Joseph L. Mosley and 1st Lady Cynthia Mosley invite all.

Youth Day to Be Held

Bethel A.M.E. Church Annual Youth Day will be held Sunday, August 21, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.  The guest speaker for the event will be Rev. Christopher Jones of Rose Hill Missionary Baptist  Church  of Pine Bluff.  Pasteor Welton Boyce, Presiding Elder Rev. James Hooper, and Presiding Bishop Rev. Michael Mitchell invite all.

Head Start Employees Receive Pre-training

Michelle Carter, Bradley County Cooperative Extension Agent, recently provided the Southeast Arkansas Community Action Head Start Employees with two hours of pre-service training to jump start the new school year.  Amy Howard, Head Start Director, coordinated the workshop and included the following five counties: Bradley, Drew, Ashley, Desha, and Chicot.  Carter's presentations included "Getting Your Hearts Right" and "Color Me Happy".  

Rotarians Hear Programs

Joel Tolefree and Jimmy Sledge

Rotarian Jimmy Sledge on August 9, 2016 had Joel Tolefree from Chamber of Commerce speak to club about all the events scheduled for the county fair.

Stephanie Harton and Mayor Bryan Martin

Rotarian Bryan Martin on August 16, 2016 had Stephanie Harton with Small Business & Technology Development Center speak about the services they have to offer to help individuals looking into starting a new business.

Poultry Testing For Fair

All poultry to be entered into the Bradley County Fair must comply with the poultry health regulations by being tested for Pullorum-Typhoid.  The Bradley County Agent, John Gavin, will test chickens at the Bradley County Fairgrounds on Tuesday, September 6th, from 4:00-6:00 p.m.  No Pullorum-Typhoid testing will be conducted during the Fair.  Contact the Bradley County Cooperative Extension Service at 870-226-8410 to register your poultry to be tested.

Lakeport Legacies to Close Out 2016 Series Aug. 25

Attachment: Pension files sometimes contain
photographs of claimants, like
 this attached one of John Gordon who
joined the 11th Louisiana Infantry in 1863.
Gordon was a slave on George Falls
 plantation on Deer Creek in Washington County, Miss.

LAKE VILLAGE, Ark. — “The Other Lycurgus Johnson: U.S. Colored Troops and Civil War Pension Files in the Delta” will wrap up the Lakeport Legacies series, Thursday, Aug. 25, at 6 p.m. The monthly history talk at Lakeport Plantation will feature Dr. Blake Wintory, director of the Lakeport Plantation, who will discuss on-going research on the lives of former enslaved laborers in Chicot County, Ark. and Washington County, Miss.

Lakeport Legacies is a monthly history talk held on the last Thursday of each month at the Lakeport Plantation during the spring and summer months. Each month a topic from the Delta region is featured.

The event is free of charge and is in the dining room of the Lakeport Plantation house, located near the Greenville Bridge at 601 Hwy 142, in Lake Village. For more information and to RSVP, contact Dr. Wintory at (870) 265-6031, or by email at bwintory@astate.edu.

During the Civil War, nearly 200,000 African-American men served in the Union Army, with over 47,000 coming from Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Many of these men and their families filed for pensions from the federal government. Those files, often filled with interviews with family, friends, comrades and former owners, can be a trove of information on 19th century African-American life, sometimes providing complete life histories for former enslaved laborers.

"Many of the interviews for pensions took place in the 1880s and 1890s—years before the Works Progress Administration (WPA) slave narratives,” explained Wintory. “When we can find pensions for former slaves at Lakeport or nearby plantations, we can learn a lot of local history that is simply not available anywhere else."

Among the pensions examined by Wintory is one for a man named Lycurgus Johnson. Lycurgus, a contemporary who happened to share the name of Lakeport’s owner, enlisted at Lake Providence, La., on May 5, 1863 in Company D of 8th Louisiana Regiment Infantry (African descent). Sgt. Johnson died of tuberculosis just over a year later on July 20, 1864, in Vicksburg.

Lycurgus’ widow, Mary, in a 1900 interview, revealed she and Lycurgus were slaves on Edward P. Johnson’s Avon Plantation on Lake Washington. Edward Johnson and Lakeport’s Lycurgus were first cousins. She arrived on the plantation as a “mere child,” while Lycurgus arrived from Kentucky around 1849 when he was likely in his early 20s.

He and Mary were married by “a slave-preacher long before the war on the Avon place and we lived together without separation ‘til Lycurgus Johnson enlisted,” she recalled.

Mary was a house servant and Lycurgus worked around the house. He would “drive the wagon and did things that did not require heavy work” due to the illness that eventually took his life. The record also provides important details about plantation communities. For example, the file also includes interviews with two other slaves on the Avon Plantation, Matt Harris and Downing Williams, and an affidavit signed by the slave preacher, Hilliard Holmes, who married the couple in 1850.

The Lakeport Plantation is an Arkansas State University Heritage Site. Constructed circa 1859, Lakeport is one of Arkansas's premier historic structures and still retains many of its original finishes and architectural details. Open to the public since 2007, Lakeport researches and interprets the people and cultures that shaped plantation life in the Mississippi River Delta, focusing on the Antebellum, Civil War and Reconstruction periods.

Arkansas Heritage Sites at Arkansas State University develops and operates historic properties of regional and national significance in the Arkansas Delta. A-State's Heritage Sites include the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Educational Center, Southern Tenant Farmers Museum, Lakeport Plantation, the Historic Dyess Colony: Boyhood Home of Johnny Cash and Arkansas State University Museum.

Fair Pageant Information Released

Bradley County Fair Pageant will be September 13 at 7:00 in the Warren Cultural Center. A junior queen (ages 13-16) and a senior queen (ages17-21) will be crowned with winners competing in the state fair pageant in October.  The senior queen will receive a tuition scholarship to University of Arkansas in Monticello.

Applications available from JeNelle Lipton (226-5457) or Glenda Cross (226-5758).  Also available at the Extension Office.

Intermodal Authority Grants approval to Renew Loan

In a relatively brief board meeting on Wednesday August, 16th, the Southeast Arkansas Intermodal Authority Board voted to renew its revolving loan with Commercial Bank of Monticello in the current amount of $359,147.19 and to pay current interest in the amount of $638.52.  The loan is due August 22, 2016, thus the need to renew.

The board granted authority to apply for $150,000.00 from the Delta Regional Authority to be used to conduct road work within the Intermodal Park.

According to the financial statement presented and approved, the two cities and two counties currently owe the authority the following:
City of Monticello-$105,921.79
City of Warren-$107,269.33
Drew County-$154,364.51
Bradley County-$224,261.06

The Mayors of Warren and Monticello continue to be committed to contribute on a annual basis as approved by their respective city councils.  No official information has been provided concerning future financial plans of the two counties.  

City of Warren Officials Receive Appointments

According to the Arkansas Municipal League, two City of Warren elected officials have been appointed to committees and board of the League.

Alderman Dorothy Henderson was place on the Executive Committee for the coming year and Mayor Bryan Martin was placed on the Workers Compensation Board of Trustees.  Both have served in the past.

The newly elected President of the Arkansas Municipal League is Mayor Harry Brown of Stephens, Arkansas.  The League is made up of some 500 municipal governments in Arkansas.  The cities range in population of close to 200,000 down to less than a hundred.  The League advocates for the cities and operates self insured insurance programs for member communities.

Dessert Auction Set for Saturday

Shelby Gardner is hosting a Dessert Auction this Saturday August 20th @ Central Missionary Baptist Fellowship Hall (facing Bond st) doors open @ 9:30, auction starts at 10. All proceeds go to Veterans Memorial Hospital, PTSD Department. Come out and support our Veterans and Shelby!!

Acting Superintendent Named at Human Development Center

According to the Department of Arkansas Human Services, Steven Farmer has been named acting superintendent for the Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center located in Warren.  The former superintendent Glenn Clark's employment was terminated August 9.

Quorum Court Discusses Purchasing Land

The Bradley County Quorum Court was updated by County Judge Keith Neely regarding his negotiations to purchase up to 81 acres adjacent to the county park, during the Court's August 15, 2016 monthly meeting.  In July the JP's had given the Judge permission to look into a price to buy the property.  The Judge told the Quorum Court that after some give and take between the parties, a price of $3000.00 per acre has been submitted to the county.  He went on to say the county is eligible for a state grant that could pay half the cost.  The total cost at $3000.00 per acre would amount to $243,000.00 with the county share being $121,500.00 if the grant is secured.  The grant would have to be applied for and it is not at this time guaranteed.  The concept of buying the land is to expand the county park.

Justice Bobby Hargraves stated that he did not believe there was any way the county could afford the entire $243,000.00 and it would be difficult to handle the $121,500.00 even should the grant be approved.  He then made a motion to allow the Judge to negotiate up to $3000.00 per acre and come back to the court for final consideration, all being subject to a grant being secured to help.

Judge Neely then reported that he is still looking into options to repair or replace the roof on the search and rescue building on Cedar Street.  The matter was tabled.

There was considerable discussion about proposed new labor regulations that may have an impact on overtime pay and compensated time off for county employees.  The judge and the court indicated they did not understand what the new regulations would require of the county and needed more information.  There had been past discussions about taking part in a lawsuite against the federal government in an attempt to stop the regulations from taking effect.  No action was taken.

The court then approved the appropriation of $3500 for the Bradley County Fair & Market Association to be used to repair the riding arena.  The money is being made available through general improvement funding.

Regular reports were submitted from the County Treasure and Sheriff and Collector.  Judge Neely also informed the court that a new bridge has been approved for County Road 18 W at a cost of $86,110.00.  The federal government will pay 50% of the total and the county must cover the other half in labor and cash.

The JP's were made aware that a tree fell on one of the Sheriff's cars during a recent storm and the insurance company totaled the vehicle.  Sheriff Anders has located another car to purchase. 

Community Action Board Reverses Action

Having voted by secret ballot in July to not seat Angela Meeks of Bradley County to the Southeast Community Action's Board of Directors, the board reversed action  and approved Angela Meeks as a representative of low income residents of the county during the August 16th board meeting.  The vote was done by a motion and second and by a show of hands.  Ms. Meeks was immediately seated and took part for the remainder of the meeting.  The matter of reconsidering Ms. Meeks appointment was brought up by Danny Mays and the motion to appoint her was made by Al Dixon.

Two other new members were seated :
Carolyn Harris of Ashley County representing the private sector
Alether Wright of Desha County representing the private sector

There has been a good deal of controversy over the appointment of board member such as who is legally appointed and whether or not proper procedures have been followed in the past to fill vacancies.

After spending well over thirty minutes trying to get the July board minutes corrected and approved, the board moved on and received reports on headstart, CSBG programs and reviewed and approved the financial reports. The Acting Executive Director also gave an administrative report, informing the board that the annual audit is underway.

During public comment time, several questions were asked about agency programs, especially relating to Desha County.  Mr. Darryl Johnson told the board that some of the members of the board are still not legal and should repay funds they have utilized for agency activities.

Gregg Reep submitted a written request to state officials present asking four things:
1. Are all current board members legitimately on the board?
2. Cite the law or regulations governing the boards authority to accept or reject appointments.
3. Can a properly selected person be rejected for appointment to the board for no reason or
    cause?
4. Have all minutes from the past been corrected?
A copy of the request was presented to the local board.

Several board members were more engaged throughout the meeting, asking questions and voicing their desire to get things straightened out and moving forward to benefit the low income of the southeast region.

Two Vehicle Accident on Martin Street

On August 5, 2016 there was a two car accident on Martin Street (Hwy 63) near the Martin/Pine intersection.  A car pulled out of the shopping center parking lot turning north onto Martin hit another car causing damage to both vehicles.  Both drivers were transported to Bradley County Medical Center.  There were apparently no serious injuries.

A Warren Police unit was traveling North on Martin Street and witnessed the accident.  The two drivers are residents of Warren.

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Arrest Report: August 15, 2016

Abilio Natera-Naka, 95 Orchard St., Apt. 43A, New York, New York, age 30, charged with no drivers license, fictitious tags, possession of controlled substance, drinking on highway (8-8-16)

Samuel Copel Diaz, 95 Orchard St., Apt. 43A, New York, New York, age 24, charged with drinking on highway (8-8-16)

O'Dario Moseley, 511 Boyd St., Warren, AR, age 28, arrested on warrant (8-10-16)

Deshundra Thomas, 235 S. 5th St., Wilmar, AR., age 27, charged with failure to report, abuse of an adult (8-10-16)

Erin Terrell, 502 West McCrary, Mineral Springs, AR., age 39, charged with failure to appear, theft, parole hold (8-11-16)

Ruben E. Quivel, 604 S. Main St., Warren, AR., age 25, charged with public intoxication (8-?-16)

Juan Cabrera, 112 W. Church St., Warren, AR., age 21, charged with DWI, No driver's license, careless driving, and no seatbelt (8-13-16)

Walter Wright, 416 Elm St., Warren, AR., age 56, charged with shoplifting (8-14-16)

Marcus E. Davis, 425 Hwy 278 W., Warren, AR., age 43, charged with body attachment (8-14-16)

School News Has Picked Back Up...Check it Out!

On our other pages:

More than 40 opening day of school at Warren photos - schools page

Warren School Menus - schools page

Gates and Stucks Presented Awards for Realty Excellence

Linda Stucks and Jerry Gates

The professional, ethical service of Jerry Gates in the real estate industry has earned the Platinum Level as a recipient of the AWARD FOR EXECELLENCE as certified by the Arkansas Realtors Association.

Gates is truly a “Key” when it comes to opening doors in the real estate market.
Jerry was presented his award at the Southeast Arkansas Board of Realtors meeting.
Key Realty Principal Broker, Linda Stucks-Taylor earned the Silver Level AWARD OF EXECELLENCE.

Key Realty has served Southeast Arkansas for over 20 years striving to serve the public with professional high standards, having earned designations of Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Graduate Realtors Institute (GRI), Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource (SFR), & Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC).        Key Realty has been members of state, local, & national Realtors Association since 1992.  Key Realty works with residential, commercial, farm, & timber land, as well as rental management.  

Rural Fire Department Responds to Hay Fire and Mobile Home Fire

On August 5, 2016, the Bradley County Rural Fire Department was called out at 6:17 p.m. to Highay 278 W.  Mateo Gonzoles of 408 Bradley 32 was pulling a 16-foot utility trailer with 6 to 8 round bales of hay.  Friction from the tire rubbing the fender caused the hay to ignite.  When the first firefighter arrived the fire was so intense the driver could not disconnect the utility railer from the truck towing it.  The first firefighter was able to dawn his protective equipment and disconnect the trailer from the truck.  There was not much damage to the trailer and the owner salvaged much of the hay.  Around four thousand gallons of water was used to extinguish the fire.

On August 9, 2016 at 11:19, the Rural Fire Department was called out to 814B Highway 189B to a fire at a mobile home.  When the first unit arrived, the fire was exiting the front and rear windows near the middle of the mobile home.  An attack was made from the outside and knockdown was achieved from that position.  Firefighters then made entrance for salvage and overhaul.  Bradley County Rural Fire Department, the City of Warren Fire Department and County Line Fire Department responded to the fire.  The cause of the fire is undetermined but according to the report, no human factors contributed to the ignition.  The owner of the property is Haley Taylor.

Rutledge Announces Two Women Arrested by Medicaid Fraud Control Unit

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge announced the arrest of an Izard County woman and a Bradley County woman by the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

Anna Moore, 59, of Melbourne, turned herself in to the Izard County Sheriff’s Office on one count of Medicaid fraud. She is accused of marrying the Medicaid recipient she was providing services to and continuing to submit billing documents for her services, totaling more than $10,000 for services she was not eligible to provide due to the marriage, a Class B felony. Moore was released after posting bond and is scheduled to appear in Pulaski County District Court in September.

This case was referred to the Attorney General’s office by the Office of the Medicaid Inspector General.

Deshundra Thomas, 27, of Wilmar, turned herself in to the Warren Police Department on one count of failure to report adult or long-term care facility resident maltreatment, a Class B misdemeanor. She observed another employee abuse a resident and failed to report it to the facility. Thomas was released after posting bond and is waiting on a court date to be set in Drew County District Court.
 
To report Medicaid fraud or abuse or neglect in residential care facilities, contact the Attorney General’s Medicaid fraud hotline at (866) 810-0016 or oag@arkansasag.gov.

Local Young Woman Represents UAMS Pharmacy School on KATV

Taylor Ashcraft (center) speaks for UAMS about immunization importance.

As schools kick off across the state, parents are concerned with purchasing supplies and school clothes.  They are rushing about to meet teachers and learn where the classrooms of the children are located.  One thing they should not forget to do is to take care of all immunizations. On Friday, May 12, representatives from UAMS Pharmacy School were guests on Midday ARKANSAS on KATV.  One of the representatives was a Warren, Arkansas hometown girl, Taylor Aschract.  She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Ashcraft.

Superintendent of Human Development Center Replaced

According to sources, Glenn Clark is no longer the Superintendent of the Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center located in Warren.  Linda Scales, who has been serving as Assistant Superintendent, has been made Acting Superintendent.

In a conversation with SRC, Scales indicated that the work of caring for the clients and their families is continuing.  She stated the staff is working hard to get more input from family members of clients and the community at large to help carry out the mission of the Center.

More information will be forthcoming.  The Southeast HDC employees around 200 people and serves nearly 100 clients.  Many of those served require 24 hour/7 day a week services and monitoring.

Hermitage School Board Member Resigns

Hermitage School Board members were informed during their regular monthly meeting, conducted August, 8th, that board Vice President Daniel Haigwood had submitted his resignation from the board due to health issues.  The board voted to accept his resignation and will be seeking a qualified person from zone #3 to appoint to fill out Mr. Haigwood's term, which runs till 2019.  The board must take action within 30 days.

In other business, the members voted to take part in the LED lighting project which will entail replacing lights throughout all school facilities with more efficient lights that is guaranteed to save the district money.  Athletic facilities are not included in the project.

Reports were provided by Dr. Tucker, Mistie McGhee and Devin McDiarmid. Dr. Tucker informed the board that since the district has no contested school board races pending the annual school elections in September and no new millage proposals, voting in the election will be limited to absentee and early voting.  This will save the district money.

A vote was approved to purchase a used car for the superintendent at a cost of $16,775.00.  The vehicle will be bought from George Motts.  As part of the deal, Motts will buy several old vehicles from the district and will deduct the amount paid form the cost of the vehicle being purchased.  The board then approved the following:
-Disclosure notifications
-Electronic transfer authorization
-Accepted ABC funding
-Approved migrant assistance funding
-Resolution for grant for kitchen equipment
-Approved academic standards of the state of Arkansas

The board voted to elect Kevin Reep Vice President of the board due to Daniel Haigwood's resignation.

After returning from executive session the board took the following actions:
-accepted the resignations of Joel Avance as facilities/compliance for baseball and Avia Thomas who worked for the cafeteria
-Hired Tyler Caruthers as facilities/compliance fro baseball, Yulonda Thomas for child nutrition, Trynesha Jackson for child nutrition and Erandi Acuchi as a para professional for special education and meal tracker.

BCEDC Sponsors Breakfast For AEDC

On Friday, August 8th, the Bradley County Economic Development Corporation  sponsored a "First Friday Breakfast" for staff members of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission in Little Rock. " First Friday Breakfast" is a program put together by Entergy to encourage communities to sponsor breakfast for the AEDC staff on the first Friday of each month for the purpose of providing
local communities the opportunity to meet with AEDC officials and discuss marketing strategies.
The idea is to give cities like Warren a chance to educate the AEDC staff on ways the local community can assist industry and to secure more prospects.

Attending from the area were Rep. Jeff Wardlaw, Warren Mayor Bryan Martin, Bradley County Judge-Elect Klay McKinney, BCEDC Chairman John Lipton, Carlton Davis and BCEDC Executive Director Donna Lawhon.  

16 Year Old Drowns at Gee’s Landing

Story courtesy of MonticelloLive.com

The body of a 16-year-old high school student, who was last seen around 1:30, Thursday morning, was recovered, Thursday afternoon, around 5:15, at Gee’s Landing, on Saline River in Drew County.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE ON MONTICELLOLIVE.COM.

Chamber Board Meets

The Bradley County Chamber of Commerce Board meet for their monthly meeting August,11th at El Ranchitos located at 209 E. Cedar Street in Warren.  After reviewing the minutes of the last meeting and the July, 2016 financial statement, the board was updated on the financial status of the 2016 Pink Tomato Festival.  According to Mike Nichols, who is chairman of the chamber board and was chairman of the 2016 festival, the festival finished in the black and all but a handful of bills have been paid.  A few bills just came in recently and are being processed.  In answer to a question, he indicated that a complete financial written report will be made available soon.

Chamber President Joel Tolefree reported on the efforts to secure additional grant money to repair and restore the railroad depot.  The board approved a conservation easement as required.  Mr. Tolefree also reminded the members that a committee consisting of himself, Mike Nichols and Gregg Reep will be meeting to come up with recommendations concerning the Bryant's building.  Mr. Reep was given permission to consult an engineer regarding the feasibility of the options.

Reports were given on the upcoming Bradley County Fair scheduled for September 16-17, 2016, and plans for Christmas and a santa train.There was information provided relating to the future chamber banquet and the "work ready program" being promoted by the BCEDC.

The next chamber board meeting is set for September 12, 2016 at Molly's.

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Cleveland County Fair Announces Schedule of Events

The Cleveland County Fair Association has announced the 2016 Schedule of Events which commences on September 10, 2016 at 8:00 a.m. with the Race to the Fair 5kRun/Walk and 1 Mile Run/Walk.  The race will begin and end at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds in Rison.  First, Second and Third place awards will be given in the men and women’s division.  Participation medals will be given to all who pre-register along with a race shirt, “goody” bag plus door prizes will be awarded on the day of the race. All ages are invited to participate in this FUN Family event.  For additional information or a race registration form, please contact  HYPERLINK "mailto:pcmcclellan13@gmail.com" pcmcclellan13@gmail.com.  Registration forms are also available at FBT Bank & Mortgage (race sponsor) at the Fordyce and Rison banks, Warren Bank and Trust, west branch location along with the Cleveland County Herald office in Rison.  Exhibits (excluding livestock/poultry and baked goods) must be entered between 1 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13.  Wednesday baked goods and livestock may be entered plus free gate admission from 5 to 7 p.m. for a special church night with live Christian music and motivational speaker. Inflatable games and entertainment will also be available. The Cleveland County Fair Parade will be held at 5 p.m. along Main Street in Rison with dinner served at the Fair grounds plus entertainment from the Now and Then Band.  Saturday the county Fair pageants and talent contest will be held commencing at 4:00.  The Fair Tabloid will be mailed to the subscribers of the Cleveland County Herald and can also be picked up at local businesses throughout the county..