Local and Regional News 101424

 

FC Arson Fire

 

A two-story vacant house in Forrest City was destroyed in an arson fire Saturday night (10/11).

 

Forrest City Fire and Police personnel were dispatched to a structure fire at 810 East Broadway around 8:55 p.m. Saturday.

 

Fire Chief Jeremy Sharp said that the structure was fully involved in flames when firefighters arrived on the scene.

 

Police officers made contact with a possible witness, who claimed that the fire had been set intentionally.

 

He said that a local woman admitted to him that she’d set fire to a couch inside the residence.

 

Chief Sharp stated that the fire was definitely arson, adding that two suspects have been identified in the case. 

 

Chief Sharp also expressed his appreciation to the city’s Street Department for bringing their excavator to the scene to clear away debris so that firefighters could get underneath and extinguish any hot spots.

 

Firemen were on the scene for about six hours. No injuries were reported. The structure was a total loss.

 

 

FC Shots Fired

 

An apartment in Forrest City was hit by gunfire Thursday night (10/10).

 

A Forrest City patrol officer responded to a 911 call around 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Pecan Grove Apartments on North Washington Street.

 

At the scene, resident Catricia Holmes told the officer that she heard what sounded like gunshots coming from the area.

 

The officer checked the property and found a bullet hole in a back bedroom window of one of the apartments. He stated that the bullet entered the apartment, traveled through a bedroom wall and lodged in a shower wall.

 

No injuries were reported. Police are investigating.

 

 

FCPD Drug Arrest

 

Forrest City Police recovered drugs, a handgun and made an arrest during a routine traffic-stop Friday night (10/11).

 

A patrol officer stopped a black sedan around 8:30 p.m. Friday on North Washington Street for not having a tag light.

 

The officer noted a strong smell of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle and initiated a search.

 

The search uncovered 19 grams of marijuana and a Glock .40 caliber handgun.

 

The driver, ID’ed as 23-year-old Syndarien Jacobs of Memphis, was taken into custody on a misdemeanor charge of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver.

 

 

FC Man Charged

 

A Forrest City man was arrested on several charges after fleeing from police late Sunday night (10/13).

 

A Forrest City patrol officer was stationary at Nelson and Church streets around 11:45 p.m. Sunday when he saw an SUV run a stop sign on Day Street.

 

The officer conducted a traffic-stop and noted that there were four occupants inside the SUV, an adult male and three juveniles.

 

The officer noticed a strong smell of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle and began questioning the driver, later ID’ed as 19-year-old Aiden Boyd of Forrest City.

 

The officer stated that Boyd stepped out of the vehicle and took off on foot. He was quickly apprehended by other officers and taken into custody without further incident.

 

Police say Boyd was in possession of a clear plastic baggie containing just over six grams of marijuana.

 

Boyd was arrested at the scene on misdemeanor charges of possession of a controlled substance, fleeing on foot and three counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

 

 

FCPD DWI Arrest

 

A Forrest City woman was arrested on a DWI charge in the city Friday night (10/11).

 

A Forrest City patrol officer stopped 36-year-old Nicole Free for speeding around 8 p.m. Friday, noting that she was traveling 47- mph in a 30-mph zone.

 

The officer approached the vehicle and noticed a strong smell of intoxicants coming from inside. He also noted that Ms. Free’s eyes were bloodshot and that her speech was slurred.

 

Police say Ms. Free failed two field sobriety tests and later registered .231 on the breathalyzer. The legal limit in Arkansas is .08.

 

Free was taken into custody and later booked at the county jail on charges of DWI and speeding.

 

 

Campaign Sign Restrictions

 

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) reminds candidates for political office and their supporters that it is unlawful to place campaign signs on highway right of ways in Arkansas.

 

State laws permit only official directional, informational, and regulatory highway signs on state-owned highway property; the local ARDOT Area Maintenance Office removes all other signs.

 

ARDOT personnel will also remove any “yard” signs placed on the right of way and will contact owners of large “billboard” signs to remove them.

 

Owners can pick up the signs during normal business hours at the nearest ARDOT Area Maintenance Office.

 

 

FC Homecoming Parade

 

The Forrest City High School Homecoming Parade is set for Thursday, Oct. 17.

 

The parade lineup will begin at 5 p.m. in the High School student parking lot on Graham Street and will take a new route this year.

 

The parade will leave the high school parking lot (turning left) and travel east to Division St. The route will turn left on Division St., and continue north to Arkansas St. where it will turn right and continue to Washington Ave. After turning left onto Washington, the parade will travel north to Mississippi St. where it will turn left and travel west back to Division St.

 

The parade will end at the Jr. High football practice field at the intersection of Victoria and Division streets where a bonfire will be held.

 

The district welcomes community participation in the parade and is looking forward to seeing the support from Mustang fans along the parade route.

 

Political candidates are welcome to participate but cannot distribute campaign materials.

 

For more information or to sign up for the parade, contact LaSandra Bean at 633-1485, ext. 103.

 

 

Olly Neal Shot Clinic

 

The Olly Neal Community Health Center will hold a drive-thru flu shot clinic, Thursday (10/17) from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christopher Homes at 500 North Pecan Street in Elaine.

 

There will be no out of pocket costs for the shots, but please remember to bring a copy of your insurance card.

 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Olly Neal Community Health Center in Marianna or call 870-295-5225.

 

They’re always accepting new patients.

 

 

Yard Sale Fundraiser

 

There will be back-to- back yard sales coming up at the Aubrey Community Center in November.

 

The first sale will benefit the Aubrey Fire Department and will be held November 8 & 9, both days from 9-4. Prices will be marked down 50% off on the 9th from 1-4 p.m.

 

The second sale is November 15 & 16, both days from 9-4. Prices will be marked down 50% off on the 16th from 1-4 p.m. This sale benefits Spring Creek Cemetery.

 

Organizers say there are lots of donations coming in so new items will be added between sales.

 

Monetary donations can also be made at:

106 Triliby Street

Aubrey, AR 72311

 

The Aubrey Community Center is the yellow brick building next to Bennetts Tractor Supply.

 

 

Events

 

--The Jolly Elders of Ridgewood Baptist Church will meet Tuesday (10/15), starting with a potluck lunch at 12-noon, followed by a musical program. Everyone is invited.

 

--The City Council of Forrest City will meet Tuesday (10/15) at 6 p.m. at City Hall.

 

--The Palestine-Wheatley School District will hold its annual Report to the Public, Tuesday (10/15) at 6 p.m. at the Elementary School Cafeteria. That’ll be followed immediately by a meeting of the Palestine-Wheatley School Board.

 

--“Revive Us Again” Revival will be held October 16-18 at 7 o’clock nightly at New Bethel MB Church in Proctor. Guest Revivalist will be Pastor Theodis Cochran Jr. Hosted by Pastor Paul and Elect Lady Fowler.

 

--Forrest City High School Class of 1974 will have its 50th class reunion, October 18th, 19th & 20th. For additional information, contact Mackie Freeman at (870) 261-2529 or Ronnie Heard at (870) 261-2694.

 

--An “Overflow Revival” will be held October 23-25 at 7 o’clock nightly at Redeeming Christian Spiritual Church #24 in Widener. Guest Revivalist will be Bishop-Elect Theodis Cochran Jr. of Trinity All-Nations in Memphis. Hosted by Pastor Clarence and Antoinette James. Everyone is invited.

 

 

Obits

 

--Funeral service for Eli Wall, 32, of Forrest City will be Wednesday (10/16) at 10 a.m. at Beck Spur Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Forrest Park Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, which is in charge of arrangements.

 

--Funeral service for Sharon Denise Smith, 54, of Conway, formerly of Palestine will be Thursday (10/17) at 11 a.m. at Union Hill M.B. Church in Palestine. Burial will follow at Casteel Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Miles Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

 

 

Sports

 

--High School Football Scores--

 

In high school football action Friday night (1011):

 

--Little Rock Mills over Forrest City, 55-12

--Fordyce over Palestine-Wheatley, 42-13

--Helena-West Helena over Crossett, 36-8

--Subiaco Academy over Lee Academy, 46-22

--Strong-Huttig over Marvell-Elaine, 42-14

--Calhoun over Marvell Academy, 48-8

--Dumas over Barton, 28-7

--Desoto over Sylva Bay, 68-28

--Bearden over Clarendon, 57-20

--McCrory over Izard Co., 52-14

--Valley View over Wynne, 31-0

--Cross County over EPC, 36-28

--Marion over West Memphis, 48-6

--Heber Springs over Bald Knob, 48-6

--CAC over Little Rock Hall, 35-28

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Ark Drug Take Back Day

 

The annual Arkansas Drug Take Back Day is set for Oct. 26. (Channel 4, Little Rock)

 

The Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership (ARORP) is organizing the event, which seeks to take unwanted or unneeded drugs out of circulation.

 

Collection sites around the state can be found online or by using the ReviveAR app. The website and app also provide educational resources, including safe disposal practices.

 

Partnership officials say they’re coordinating with over 200 law enforcement agencies to collect unused medications at more than 300 permanent drop boxes throughout the state.

 

 

Kiwanis Pancake Day

 

The Kiwanis Club of Forrest City will hold its annual Pancake Day Fundraiser, Tuesday, November 5th at the First Baptist Church Gym at 507 N. Rosser Street in Forrest City.

 

Tickets are $10 in advance and $11 at the door. Serving times are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m.

 

Meals will include pancakes, sausage, bacon, a beverage of choice and accompaniments. Tickets are available from any Kiwanis Club member.

 

This annual fundraiser supports numerous activities and organizations throughout the year with an emphasis on children in the community.

 

Sponsorship opportunities and dining placemat ads are currently available.

 

For more information, contact Anna Howton at 870-317-5296.

 

 

FC After School Meals

 

The Forrest City School District has opened its 2024-25 After School Meals Program.

 

Meals will be served at Central Elementary School, Stewart Elementary School, and Forrest City Junior High School on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays through April 2025.

 

Forrest City High School will serve meals Monday through Wednesday through May 2025.

 

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲:

--𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 - 𝟯:𝟰𝟱 𝘁𝗼 𝟰:𝟭𝟱 𝗽.𝗺.

--𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 - 𝟯:𝟯𝟬 𝘁𝗼 𝟰:𝟭𝟱 𝗽.𝗺.

--𝗙𝗖𝗝𝗛𝗦 - 𝟯:𝟯𝟬 𝘁𝗼 𝟰 𝗽.𝗺.

--𝗙𝗖𝗛𝗦 - 𝟯:𝟯𝟬 𝘁𝗼 𝟰:𝟭𝟱 𝗽.𝗺.

 

All meals will be served at the school cafeteria on each campus and must be eaten on site.

 

 

FC Community Cleanup

 

The City of Forrest City will host a city-wide Community Clean-Up Event, Saturday, October 19, and they need your help.

 

City officials say whether you're part of an organization, a school, a local church, or simply a passionate volunteer, your participation will make a significant difference.

 

Officials say this is also a fantastic opportunity to earn community service hours while helping to beautify the city.

 

Volunteers are asked to be at City Hall on Saturday, October 19th at 9 a.m. Gloves and trash bags will be provided.

 

For more details, email Shenderson@cityofforrestcityar.com or call City Hall at (870) 633-1315.

 

 

​SFC Commodities

 

The Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas will host drive-thru commodity distributions in St. Francis County on Wednesday, October 16, from 8-10 a.m. at the following locations:

 

--Larry Bryant Multipurpose Center in Forrest City

--Palestine City Hall

--Wheatley City Hall

 

Persons receiving USDA foods must reside in St. Francis County and must meet the program’s income guidelines.

 

USDA foods are distributed on a first come, first served basis.

 

 

Olly Neal Shot Clinics

 

The Olly Neal Community Health Center will conduct a drive-thru flu shot clinic Thursday, October 17th from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christopher Homes at 500 North Pecan Street in Elaine.

 

There is no out of pocket costs for the shots, but please remember to bring a copy of your insurance card.

 

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Olly Neal Community Health Center in Marianna or call 870-295-5225.

 

They’re always accepting new patients.

 

 

FUMC Chicken and Dressing

 

United Women in Faith at the First United Methodist Church in Forrest City are now taking orders for chicken & dressing.

 

--Small pan is $15, which serves 4-6

--Large pan is $25, which serves 8-10

 

The pickup date will be Friday, November 22nd from 10-5 at the UMAC.

 

To place an order, call the church office at 870-633-1094, Susan Berry at 870-270-0064 or Debbie Montgomery at 870-261-2553.

 

 

SFC Extension Report

 

Packing a “grab-n-go” lunch is a great way to stretch your family’s food budget.

 

In her educational report for the month of October, St. Francis County Extension Agent Marla Lane talks about ways to save money and stay healthy with your lunchtime meals:  

                (click here to listen)

 

Thanks Ms. Marla.

 

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Those who wish to participate in a “Walk Across Arkansas” event have until November 3rd to get their walk in.

 

St. Francis County Extension Agent Marla Lane has more details:

                (click here to listen)

 

Again, you can sign-up at walk.uada.edu or call the St. Francis County Extension Office at 870-261-1730 for more information.

 

 

EACC Exhibit

 

The Arkansas Arts Council's annual touring visual arts exhibition, Small Works on Paper, is now open in the Fine Arts Center at East Arkansas Community College in Forrest City.

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The artwork will be on view through Wednesday, October 30. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 

Now in its 37th year, the exhibition spotlights Arkansas artists who are members of the Arkansas Artist Registry, an online gallery maintained by the Arkansas Arts Council.

 

The 2024 tour features 39 artists from across Arkansas and will make stops at nine venues statewide. Most works will be available for sale, with all proceeds benefiting the artists.

 

Each year, artists from around the state submit artwork that is no larger than 18 by 24 inches. An out-of-state juror selects the work to be included in the traveling visual arts exhibition.

 

Among those participating in the 2024 exhibition are a couple of  artists from the eastern Arkansas region, Jane Bonady Brackin of West Memphis and Tami Chandler of Jonesboro.

 

For more information about Small Works on Paper, contact Cheri Leffew, special projects/events manager, at 501-324-9767.

 

 

Challenge Race

 

The 2nd annual RUN FOR THE PINK OR BUST Challenge Race will be held Saturday, October 26th, at the Forrest City High School Football Field.

 

Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the races to begin at 10 o’clock.  

 

The races will be forty yards.  Everyone is encouraged to find a partner and participate.

 

There will also be a silent auction for numerous prizes. 

 

Raffle tickets are currently on sale for the Grand Prize, a Savage .308 Rifle.  Tickets are one for $10.00,  six for $50.00, and 13 for $100.00.  The drawing will be held the day of the race. 

 

There is no entry fee or charge for admission, but donations will be accepted.

 

All proceeds go to the Think Pink for Breast Cancer organization for breast cancer research.

 

For more information or tickets, contact Bobby Astin at 870-494-5077 or Fred Houston at 870-270-6430.

 

 

​​Grant Application Period Open

 

The fall application period for an Arkansas Heritage Small Museum Grant is now open.

 

Communities interested in applying for the Small Museum grant are encouraged to act now, as fall deadlines are approaching. Applications are due Oct. 18.

 

The goal of the Small Museum Grants program is to promote education, awareness and enjoyment of Arkansas history and to increase the ability of community-based small museums and organizations to research, preserve, present and conserve Arkansas history.

 

This grant program is funded by the one-eighth cent conservation tax. Eligible organizations must have an annual operating budget of $250,000 or less; must have a staff of at least one person, either paid or volunteer; and must be open to the public at least 90 days per year.

 

Eligible activities include buildings and grounds maintenance, operating costs, equipment purchases up to $1,000, accessioning of artifact collections, educational programming, research, exhibits and web site design and maintenance. The maximum grant award is $2,500.

 

For more information or to apply, visit www.arkansasheritage.com.

 

 

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