2023.8.23

Southard Valley Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD Just weeks after his appointment, Jay Southard tendered his resignation from the Phillips County Election Commission. In a letter dated August 17 to Phillips C o u n t y Republi - can Party Chair - man Martin Rawls and copied to Phillips County Election Commission Chairwoman Barbara King and Democratic Party member Evelyn Schmidt, Southard cited employment responsibilities at his new position as a teacher in the Barton School District as the reason for his departure just weeks after his appointment and roughly two months before the annual school election. He wrote, “Due to unforeseen scheduling issues with my current position, I cannot dedicate the required time to the commission to fulfill the duties obligations of this office.” Rawls said the party committee will meet soon to fill the void created by the abrupt resignation of Southard saying, “No one saw this coming so close to the annual school elections. We are committed to safe, secure, and well-run elections and I will call a meeting of the Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The I Marvell Mission Project achieved its goal and was quite successful according to First Baptist Church Marvell’s preacher, B. J. Chatman. To start at the beginning, First Baptist Church Marvell and First Baptist Church Rose Bud connected at the Delta Vision Tour hosted by First Baptist Church Marianna on March 13, 2023. In May, after discussing the vision and needs within the community, the two churches began to meet and organize this project. First Baptist Church Rose Bud wanted to come to serve in Marvell. They wanted to partner with First Baptist Marvell to make a difference in a small town. Their pastor, Mitch Vickers, brought ten members to Marvell, along with a ton of equipment and supplies to get the tasks done. These tasks were planned and put together ahead of time. Mid-Delta donated to this project and RF Beef donated meats for the meals. There was lots of support from many aspects. That support helps make this an Rick Kennedy HELENA WORLD In a one-hour-and-a-half meeting on August 15, the HWH City Council did little but approve a grant-writing program with Memphis State University. Much of the rest of the meeting was talk. The start of the meeting was delayed as Mayor Christopher Franklin was said to be showing off the city’s newly purchases tractors. Much of the rest of the meeting showed unpreparedness, and proved to be unproductive at every turn. With reference to the $125,000 lawsuit against the city by Riggs for unpaid bills? It was said that not enough information was available, so that issue was deferred. Buying equipment for the city’s landfill? Chief of Staff James Valley said he needed more information, including a request for a debt schedule by one of the vendors. Visit our website: www.helenaworld.org August 23, 2023 • Single copy $1.25 Volume 152 • Number 34 © 2023, Helena World Chronicle, LLC Please see CITY on 2A Please see QUIT on 2A 911 AT THE ROTARY HWH Council does little in August 15 meeting Southard quits County Election Commission Janice Jarrett, a Crisis Intervention Technician with the Phillips County 911 program, spoke to a recent meeting of the HelenaWest Helena Rotary club about the county’s 911 operation and things people can do to be informed of emergency information in a more timely fashion. Jarrett said that the 911 operation fields approximately 13000 calls per year with about 10% of those calls being hang ups requiring an operator to call back. For the other 90% of calls, operators have. Photo Credit: Liz Dowda I Love Marvell Mission Project deemed successful Support Local News * Support Local Journalism Please see MARVELL on 2A

Local The Helena World 2A — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Subscribe to the Helena World Call Us Today at 501-500- 0520 ext. 1 QUIT CITY The Council was, instead, talked into another month of renting an escalvator for $6,700. City Treasurer Derrick Turner asked for information about a new escalvator, and Valley replied “It has been given to the body a couple of times.” Turner also asked “What is going on with dozers at landfill?” Valley replied “They will not come down due to dispute we are in.” As Valley continued with the next agenda item, which involved a minimum wage adjustement per CPI, more confusion prevailed. Turner said he estimated the adjustment would cost the city $70,000, and then said he needed to speak with Valley in private. No action was taken. No action was also taken on the proposed Animal Control ordinance, even as Valley said “They are running way over budget.” Valley cited a $7,000 water septic tank as well as plumbing and fencing issues that needed to be addressed. Valley also said, “The Landfill people are complaining about dogs at landfill.” Franklin said, “She is over her spending authority for animal control. She is talking about $7,000 for septic tank and another $10,000 for fencing.” Franklin continued, saying “With a salary and vet bills, we are already way over budget.” City Clerk Sandi Ramsey also said “We still owe 66,000 on the kindle.” Valley also said a proposal for bond financing was not ready, so no action was taken there. Likewise Valley said the lawsuit with the Phillips County Jail was still ongoing as the Municipal League has swapped several emails with the county. Valley said, “The county has not done a very good job of tracking inmates. We are supposed to get an invoice monthly for our city inmates at $45 per day.” Valley added, “Sometimes we have people there 30 days. We need to establish the facts about whether these people are misdemeanors or felonies? That is the question. Their billing records are not the best.” Valley also offered his opinion that “The citizens of HWH are paying twice for the jail.” Turner said “They get $1 million dollars in county sales tax.” Council member Don Etherly said, “They also get revenue from a Jail Fee on speeding tickets.” Valley said, “And, it is our people are writing the tickets.” Valley said, “It was sold to the public as it is going to reduce crime.” Ramsey gave a brief financial report, saying the city still owed over $400,000 to various vendors.” She said, “We’ve got equipment repair in all departments. The city attorney has negotiated settlemtns, but sales taxes have been down.” Franklin said, “We are trying to pay local vendors first. We need to spend our money locally.” Cody Bayless of Memphis State University presented his proposal, which was a pilot project his university was working on to assist Delta towns with obtaining grants. Bayless said, “Grants are a way to get money, and we are working with eight communities in a pilot project with the Delta Regional Authority to get funding that aligns with your stratagic plan for community.” Franklin said, “This is free to the city.” Bayless that the DRA is funding three cities in Arkansas, including Eudora, Osceola, and Helena. Republican committee very soon to fill this vacancy.” In the interim, King, a Republican, and Schmidt, a Democrat, will continue to prepare for the annual school elections that will be held in November. No one filed to run for the Zone 2 position in the Helena-West Helena School District currently held by Troy Bobo. Anthony Arnold will be unopposed for reelection in the Barton School District. Marvell-Elaine’s board has been dissolved by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. All three school districts are required under Article 14 Section 3 of the Arkansas Constitution to place their millage rates on the ballot even though none are seeking a property tax increase. With no contested school board elections, all three districts will likely only have early voting at the Phillips County Courthouse. overwhelming success. Before, during, and after pictures of the project can be found on the Helena World website. Over the course of the weekend the FBC Marvell Missions team, led by Ms. Susan Ligon, hosted the workers. Many volunteers from the church helped serve lunch and dinner at FBC for the mission teams and provided snacks and refreshments throughout the weekend. Martin Rawls for his leadership during this event, as well. Completed Mission projects include cleaning the lot coming into Marvell (US49) from the East; clearing a large tree and brush behind the Marvell Splash Pad; pressure washing, clearing debris, and landscaping the First Christian Church; cleaning the food pantry; cleaning the interior of the Levon Helm House; and hosting a community-wide block party Saturday afternoon with music and activities. The gospel was shared by FBC Marianna pastor, Steven Price. I Marvell was able to present TVs to two city workers (Ceneca & Tracy) who worked very hard with the Mission Teams throughout the weekend. Bro. Chatman was thrilled with the event, “Relationships were built, the Gospel was shared, and projects were done in the name of Jesus. Rose Bud gave a large contribution toward this project to see that this not be a one-time event, but a project that continues moving forward. Because of this partnership and the support of the church body and community, I Marvell is just getting started, with more things to come. God has been all over this entire project from start to present.” MARVELL

The Helena World Opinions WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 3A Arkansas forges new identity in energy, defense, steel By Steve Brawner Columnist For a long time, northwest Arkansas and central Arkansas have driven the state’s economic growth. Many other areas have not prospered as much. Two-thirds of the state’s 75 counties lost population between the 2010 and 2020 censuses. That’s not surprising. People move to where the jobs are. But lately, there’s been a lot of good news coming from other parts of Arkansas. The Wall Street Journal recently reported – as relayed by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – that Exxon Mobil plans to build processing facilities near Magnolia capable of producing annually up to 110,000 tons of lithium. That metal is used for batteries for electric cars and other applications. The amount would be equal to roughly 15% of the world’s total production last year. South Arkansas is home to the Smackover Formation, once the base of the state’s oil industry, which has brine deposits containing lithium. Other companies including Standard Lithium are also planning to extract resources from the brine. The Magnolia Reporter recently reported that Tetra Technologies plans to build a halfbillion-dollar production facility. It will p r o d u c e b r o m i n e , which can be used in the oil and gas industry and for energy storage. The developments could make south Arkansas an international player in a rapidly growing field. But it’s not just in lithium production that the area is seeing economic growth. The Highland Industrial Park in East Camden is a major player in the defense industry. About 2,700 individuals work for companies like Lockheed Martin, which employs 1,000 there, and Aerojet Rocketdyne, which recently announced it was adding a couple of hundred employees to the 1,100 it already has. Weapons produced there include Lockheed’s HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) and others being used by Ukraine. Defense is also becoming a major economic driver for the Fort Smith area. Ebbing Air National Guard Base at Fort Smith was selected by the U.S. Air Force to be the training center for foreign pilots learning to fly F-16 and F-35 fighter planes. The new mission will bring 230 U.S. Air Force personnel to the area. Singapore, one of the first customers, will send 300 military personnel with their families. Finally, Mississippi County in the state’s northeast corner has become the nation’s steel-producing capital with more than 3,600 workers, according to the area’s Great River Economic Development Foundation. The area is home to huge operations run by Nucor and U.S. Steel. The latter last year announced it was building a $3 billion factory, the largest capital investment project in Arkansas history. The company said the project would create 900 jobs with an average pay of more than $100,000. The plant will process recycled steel into the kind of advanced steel used by the auto industry. Of course, these economic developments by themselves won’t guarantee prosperity throughout those regions. They still have many challenges to overcome, including housing and a lack of amenities. An acquaintance of mine recently told me he had started working for Aerojet Rocketdyne but was still living in Little Rock. That’s a long drive, but there’s really nothing in East Camden for him except a job. To help turn workers into residents, Mississippi County’s “Work Here, Live Here” campaign will pay for 10% of the cost of a new home bought by a manufacturing worker. But while good news can create its own challenges, it’s still much better than bad news. These areas are forging identities as major players in steel, energy and defense – or in south Arkansas’ case, the latter two. Just as Walmart has done in northwest Arkansas, these industries will create a ripple effect. They will indirectly create thousands more jobs and spread the prosperity to nearby counties. People will move to where the jobs are, or at least they’ll drive there. When they do, it will be in cars made of steel. In the near future, many will probably be powered by lithium. Arkansas will produce a lot of both.. Recently, we editorialized about the importance of rallying around Helena Regional Medical Center, patronizing its services, and the essential place our local hospital occupies in our economy and quality of life here. Mayor Christopher Franklin has made several public statements since taking office and at recent City Council meetings about the importance of doing business locally and keeping our money at home. While we have often been at odds with the Mayor, we agree with him on this point. We must support our local businesses and build our local economy, just as we must support Helena Regional Medical Center. Since that editorial urging support for HRMC, the Helena-West Helena School Board has published a request for proposals from attorneys to provide the district legal services. We urge the School Board to choose someone from our relatively large local legal community to provide this service. If there is one thing that Helena-West Helena has plenty of, it is attorneys. There are choices. There are varying levels of expertise and assorted areas of specialization. We can keep that money at home with individuals committed to the success of our community that are actually paying the property taxes funding the district’s recent facilities projects and people that shop here, pay local sales taxes and contribute to our local economy in significant ways. Let’s pay our neighbors instead of some large central Arkansas law firm with ties to extreme rightwing political candidates. It just makes sense. While we recognize that there are instances where vendors from outside Phillips County must be used in order to obtain a service not available here, whenever we can do business with local vendors and entities, we should. HWHSD should do that with its legal services. In addition to supporting the local economy, there needs to be a locally-based voice in the ear of the Superintendent on those matters that have been taken from local control thanks to the chaos and chicanery generated by the now disgraced former leadership of former Board President Sanetta Davis and VicePresident Earnest Simpson that resulted in the state’s return to power over HWHSD affairs. Pulaski County perspectives on school operations dominate the top echelons of 305 Valley Drive and we don’t need to add more of that with a LR lawyer. In closing, in addition to all of us doing more business locally to obtain all of the services that we can here to build up our own community, we urge more of our school administrators and leading officials at other institutions to move to this community and become a part of it. That’s the only way to truly understand the community, its families and its culture. And that understanding is essential for leading this community to greatness. Join the fight with us to do something special for a potential jewel of the Delta. Unpack your suitcases and stay with us awhile. It’s a buyer’s market for homes. Our churches would love to have you and your tithes. Our restaurants would love to serve you and help you gain a few pounds. Our civic organizations need board members and volunteers. We have a lot of nice places beyond the convenience stores where gas and snacks are purchased on your way out. You will find us to be a loving sort to those that love us back. Do Business Locally Whenever Possible What in the world are we celebrating? By Rick Kennedy Columnist In his column this week, my friend Steve Brawner talks glowingly of economic development and industry in Arkansas. After years of economic well-being in Northwest Arkansas and Little Rock, Brawner notes places like Magnolia, Smackover, and Camden seeing gains in lithium production and defense contracting. Brawner also cites Mississippi County -- think Blytheville and Osceola -- with new plants from Nucor and U.S. Steel and average salaries of $100,000. Mississippi County is even now contributing 10-percent towards housing as they try to get skilled workers into their area. Missing from Brawner’s column are places we are more familiar with. No mention of Helena, West Helena, Brinkley, Clarendon, Marianna, Lake Village, or Dumas. No $100,000 jobs in any of these places to speak of -- unless you are a school superintendent. And, in Phillips County, two out of the three of those folks don’t even live here. Good grief. We do have an abundance of failing schools and falling apart buildings. These high priced superintendents certainly have their work cut out for them. And Brawner is right about sometime else, when he says people are going to where the the good paying jobs are in this state. But, in our part of Arkansas, nearly every place has seen population declines over the past 10, 20, and 30 years. It certainly causes me to question what in the world we are celebrating in our region? The state of mediocrity? Outside of the before mentioned superintendents, where are the good paying jobs around here? Who is hiring 200 or 300 persons for average wages of $75,000? In Phillips County, our per capita income is $20,242, and approximately 35.7-percent of the population live in poverty. In Monroe County, the per capita income is only slightly better at $23,446, and 25.3-percent of its population lives in poverty. I guess all of these $50,000 a year teachers are supposed to lift our region out of poverty? Or, is it the high priced administrators, city officials and department heads, and corporate shrills that don’t live here that are supposed to do something? When does Southeast Arkansas have its day in the sun? When are our people going to do well with good paying jobs and good schools? When do our people see meaningful progress on our wages and quality of life? I am so sick of constantly reading year after year how every place in Arkansas is doing well, doing better, and doing more than us.

Local/Religion The Helena World 4A — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Dr. Keith Roach SPONSORED FEATURE DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 74-year-old woman who loves to read the newspaper every morning. I have a problem that’s not serious, just annoying. My eyes tear up frequently while I read, causing me to wipe them. After I’m done reading, the problem stops. I see my ophthalmologist every year and have my vision glasses updated as needed. I am not yet a candidate for cataract surgery. Could you enlighten me about a probable cause for this irritating problem? -- A.H.G. ANSWER: By all means, ask your ophthalmologist at your next visit, but the most common cause I see for watery, tearing eyes are ... dry eyes! This apparent paradox is caused by the fact that your eyes have three different fluids. One of them, called meibum, is a long-lasting, oily material secreted by the meibomian glands, found around the edges of the eyelids near the eyelashes. This covers the eye and prevents fluid from evaporating quickly. Without this fluid, the lacrimal gland (near the temple above each eye) then has to make a lot of its watery secretions, which cause symptoms of tearing. Most commonly, the meibomian glands get clogged up by secretions becoming dry. Gently cleansing the eyelash area with warm water and baby shampoo helps many people unclog these glands. Artificial tears lubricate the eye and will reduce the symptoms of watery eyes (and maybe some eye irritation, too, which you might not have mentioned). *** DEAR DR. ROACH: I am about to undergo gallbladder removal due to recurring pain from gallbladder sludge. Should I be taking replacements for the bile salts that I will no longer be able to produce, and if so, what is the best type of replacement? -- S.C. ANSWER: Your liver makes bile salts, which are necessary for fat absorption. The gallbladder doesn’t make them at all; it just stores the bile until you eat a meal, at which point the gallbladder contracts and the bile salts are released into the small intestine to help you digest fat. Most bile salts will be reabsorbed later at the end of the small intestine, recirculating them for reuse. In people without a gallbladder, the liver itself will continuously release bile salts into the small intestine, rather than on an as-needed basis by the gallbladder. Sometimes, the ability of the terminal ileum (the part of the intestine where bile salts are reabsorbed) gets overwhelmed, and bile acids enter the colon, causing diarrhea. This is very common in the first few weeks after gallbladder surgery, but the small intestine usually “learns” to absorb more bile salts. The colon also learns to live with bile salts, and the diarrhea mostly goes away. However, some people continue to have diarrhea after surgery, and medication to restrain bile salts (such as cholestyramine) can make a huge difference. After surgery, avoiding a high-fat diet is prudent for a month or so to minimize the amount of bile needed. ***** This Sponsorship is available now. To see your name or business here, call Andrew Bagley at the Helena World. Most common cause behind teary eyes are dry eyes * R.L. in Utah writes: “Do onions make you cry? Tip: Cut off root first. Cut off top second. Remove outer skin and discard the first outer layer of the onion. Slice/dice/rings. Works great.” How do you cut your onions, and what helps to keep your eyes from watering? Write to us with your onion tips! * You may not think to do this often, but you should: Clean your laptop! Not just the screen or keys, but the exterior as well. Get a microfiber cloth, spritz the cloth (never the machine itself) with a bit of isopropyl alcohol and rub away dirt and grime. * “Grass stains can be removed from kids’ clothing by rubbing the stains with a bar of Ivory soap. (I keep one just for stains.)” -- M.F. in Washington * Special for S.P. in California. To remove ball point ink from leather, your best weapon is a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol. Be sure to test first in an inconspicuous spot, as not all leathers are equal. Certain synthetic leathers that are dyed may experience color loss in a spot cleaning with alcohol. Work slowly and don’t rub too hard. Condition afterward to protect the leather. * It’s important to include only approved materials when recycling curbside, but conserving space allows the trucks to fit more per load, which is another great way to help the environment. A reader in North Carolina had something to say about this! They sent a great tip about nesting steel cans inside one another to compact space. You should also cut cardboard to smaller sizes and break down boxes, as well as crush plastic bottles and replace the caps. * Making a smoothie with banana in it? When you’re done with that peel, chop it up (you can use a rinsed-out blender bottle) and chuck the pieces in your garden to provide food to plants and beneficial bugs.. *** This Sponsorship is available now. To see your name or business here, call Andrew Bagley at the Helena World. Nothing Is More Predictable Than the Unpredictable Sandra Bagley RELIGION COLUMNIST “The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all.” Ecclesiastes 9:11 Life is so unpredictable at times. One minute everything is going exactly as planned and then out of the blue, like a flick of a button and your world is turned upside down. You never know what sort of event will happen. It’s like when the tortoise beat the hare. In Aesop fable of The Tortoise and the Hare, a fast but often-distracted hare (rabbit) challenges a slow but determined tortoise (turtle) to a race. The hare, overconfident in his speed, takes a leisurely nap during the race, while the tortoise continues to plod along steadily. When the hare awakens and resumes the race, he finds that the tortoise is near the finish line. Despite the hare’s swift last-minute efforts, the tortoise crosses the finish line first. This iconic story reminds us of the profound truth that, “The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all” (Ecclesiastes 9:11). In a world where we often strive to be the fastest, the strongest, the wisest, and the most skillful, these words stand as a humbling reminder that life is filled with unpredictability and uncertainty. It is easy for us to believe that success and triumph are solely the results of our own efforts, but the words of this verse challenge us to consider a different perspective. Uniquely positioned among the books of the Bible, Ecclesiastes is a profound book which King Solomon wrote to spare future generations the bitterness of learning through their own experiences that life is meaningless away from God. Recall that when Solomon became the third king of Israel, he asked God for wisdom (2 Chronicles 1:7-12), and he became the wisest man in the world (1 Kings 4:29-34). He is the one person in the bible who had everything – wisdom, power, riches, honor, good reputation, and God’s favor. As Solomon describes the unpredictable nature of life under the sun, he first noticed that the race is not always given to the swift. You can be the best athlete on the field, and still come in second or third place. Next, he says that the battle was not always won by the strong. The one with the biggest arsenal or the most troops does not always come out on top. Then, he points out that bread does not always go to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to those with knowledge. The very ones that you would expect to be winners sometimes turn out to be losers. The verse speaks to the unpredictability of life itself, where the outcome of our endeavors is not always determined by our abilities alone. As much as we plan, prepare, and work diligently, there are moments when time and chance intervene, shaping the course of events in ways we cannot foresee. It is a reminder that humility should be at the core of our journey, recognizing that there are factors beyond our control that influence the paths we tread. Solomon takes all of this into consideration and says, “Time and chance happen to them all.” The word ‘time’ there refers to the seasons of life. ‘Chance’ refers to something unforeseen on the path of life. Ordinarily, we would expect things to go well for the one who has strong ability. However, we learn that speed, strength, or smarts are no real guarantee of success because time is always working against us. Those who place their confidence in such things will always come up disappointed. Nothing is more predictable than the unpredictable. The tortoise can beat the hare. The weak can win against the strong. In times of success, we should remember that our achievements are not solely a reflection of our prowess, but a culmination of factors beyond ourselves. And in times of challenge and setback, we can find solace in the fact that even the strongest and wisest among us are not immune to the twists and turns of life. This understanding should draw us closer to our faith, seeking guidance and strength from our God who is working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This insight should encourage us to live with an open heart and open hands, embracing the uncertainty of life while we trust God. As we navigate the journey of life, let us strive to cultivate a spirit of gratitude for both the victories and the lessons that come our way. For in embracing the uncertainty of time and chance, we find opportunities to learn, grow, and deepen our connection with God, as our lives are enriched, and our spirits refined. may we approach each day with humility, gratitude, and an unwavering trust in the plan that transcends our own understanding. Rev. Sandra Bagley is an Associate Minister at New Haven Missionary Baptist Church, and an award-winning columnist. Readers may send feedback to [email protected]. Sandra Bagley

The Helena World Church WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 5A St Mary’s Catholic Church St. Johns Episcopal Church For more information on a sponsorship of this church directory Please contact Wally Burchett at: Wally@ burchettmedia.com or call 910-528-0244 ASSEMBLY OF GOD FIRST Assembly of God 1807 Stringtown Rd. Pastor Dwight Miner 338-3882 S.S. 9:45 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m.. & 5 p.m. Wed. 5 p.m. Hope Church 417 E. Baldwin Pastor Qway Duvall 501-655-0359 Worship Service Sundays 10:45 BAPTIST Asbury M.B. Church Wallace St. Marvell Rev. Leroy Williams Min., Rev. Gray Asst. S.S 9:30, M.W. 11:00 a.m. 2nd & 4th Sundays Bible Study Wed. 6:00 Harmony M.B. Church 801 Airport Road Fred Garrison, Min. 572-9342 S.S. 10 A.M. W.S. 11am & 5pm Wed 7pm Beautiful Zion Miss. Baptist 218 Ponotoc 338-3977 Danny Robinson, Min., S.S. 9 a.m.; W.S. 10 a.m. Beulah Missionary Baptist Onieda - Robert L. Goldsberry, Min S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. County Line Baptist P.O. Box 273, Marvell, AR 72366 Nate Lawerence, Min., 829-3260 S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Elaine Baptist Church 200 Main St. Elaine Luke Watson/Pastor., 870-827-3469 S.S. 9:45 a.m.; W.S. 11:00 a.m. & 6p.m. Wed. 7:00 p.m. First Baptist M.B. Church Comer of Miller & Walnut St., Helena, 338-8652, Derrick L. Hughes, Pastor S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11:30 a.m. Helena First Baptist Church 600 Franklin, Helena Cliff Bernard/Pastor., 338-6764 S.S. 9:15 a.m.; W.S. 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 6:45 p.m. First Baptist Ward St., Marvell S.S. 10:00 a.m.; Randy Williams, Pastor W.S. 11:30 a.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Every Sundays First Missionary Baptist Church 125 N. Coanza Von Daniels, Min., 870-228-5007 S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Fourth Street Baptist B.MA Pastor: Lance Madden SS, 10am; WS, 11am &6pm Wed.- Adult Bible Study/ Children/Youth Classes 6pm Fountain Head M.B. Baptist Willis DR Marvell Pastor Vincent Bell. 870-829-2558 S.S. 9:30 a.m.; M.W. 11:00 a.m. Evening Service 1st & 3rd Sundays 6:00 p.m. Galilee Missionary Baptist206 Adams 338-3024 S.S. 9:30 a.m. Pastor Jessie King Greater First Miss. Baptist Comer of Sam and Bonanza St. Arthur Hughes, Min. S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m., 1st & 3rd Sunday Lambrook Baptist 827-3918 S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Lexa Baptist 213 Cedar St. Pastor: Nathan Perry 572-6533 S.S. 9:45 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Morning Grove Missi. Baptist Hwy 44 - Elder Robert Davi, Pastor, 572-0667 S.S. 10:00 a.m.; W.S. 12:00 noon every Sun. Bible Class every Tues. Morning Star Baptist 885 S. Biscoe 338-6727 S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11:00 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 6 p.m. 1st & 3rd Sun Rev. Larry Edwards, Pastor Mount Oliver Miss. Baptist Onieda - Moses Tillman Sr., Min. S.S. 10:30 a.m.; W.S. 12 Noon every 2nd Sun. Mount Tabor Miss. Baptist 1160 Holly & Adams Streets S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11:00 a.m. 2nd & 4th Sun. Tues. 7:30 p.m. 2nd & 4th Tues. New Haven Missionary Baptist Rev. Rodney D. Corbin, Pastor 404 W Street West Helena, AR 72390 S.S. 9:30 a.m.- W.S. 11:00 a.m. - Prayer, Mon. 6 p.m., B.S., Wed. 7 p.m. Ph. 870.572.6314 New Hope Missionary Baptist Jackson & Holly • Billy G. Williams, Min., 338-9095 S.S. 9:45 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Wed. 6 p.m. New Light Baptist 522 Arkansas Andre K. Valley, Min., 338-8677 S.S. 9:15 a.m.; W.S. 10:45 a.m. Bible Study 6:30 pm Wednesday New Zion Missionary Baptist - 225 Plaza L.A. Gamble, Min., 572-2159 S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11:30 a.m. 2nd & 3rd Sun. B.S. 2nd Wed. Pleasant Grove Miss. Baptist Hwy. 316 Kenion Williams, Min. S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11:00 a.m. 1st & 3rd Sun. Salem M.B.Church - Hwy. 44 So. S.S. 10:00 a.m. W.S. 11:00 am. 1st & 3rd Sunday Paster Randy Williams, Sr. St.John Missionary BaptistPerry ext., Helena S.S.9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Rev. Walter Debro Jr- Pastor St. John M.B. Church Perry Ext., Helena, AR Rev. Walter Debro Jr., Pastor Sunday School 9:30 A.M. Sunday Worship 11:00 A.M. Each Sunday St. Joseph Missionary Baptist - Postelle S.S. 10 am.: W.S. 11:30 am. Wed. 6 p.m. Spring Lake Missionary Baptist S.S.9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Rev. Garland Lee Restoration Outreach Center Int. and Non-Denominational Worship Service Sundays at 11:00 a.m. ICTC (I Can Through Christ) Tuesday nights at 7:00 p.m. I am the Sr Pastor Matthew McKing Sr. St. Paul Missionary Baptist Old Little Rock Phillips County Road 300 Billy Ward, Minister 572-2870 S.S. 10100 am; W.S. 11:30 every Sunday Bible Class 7:00 pm - Wednesday St. Paul Missionary Baptist Corner of Walnut & Adam St. -Amos Newell, Min., S.S. 9:45 am.: W.S. 11 p.m. Bible Study 6:30 p.m.-Tuesday St. Peter Missionary Baptist Old LR Road - Devin Brown, Min., 338-7164 S.S. 9:30 am.: W.S. 11:30 a.m. Bible Study: 6:00pm Wednesday followed with every choir rehearsal Second Baptist SBC 3rd & Baldwin St. Mike Collins, Senior Pastor., 572-3264 S.S. 9:00 a.m.: W.S. 10:00 a.m. & 7 p.m. Wed. 6:30 p.m. Second Baptist - Park & Hernando St. Jarvis Smith, Min., 572-9647 S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11:00 a.m. NS. Sun., 6:30 p.m., BC., Tues. 5:00 p.m., Every 1st. Sat., Mo. Mus. 7:30 p.m. Second Baptist Church Lexa - 113 Mapl & Maine St 572-1525 S.S. 10:00 a.m.; M.W. 11:30 a.m.; Bible Study (First & Third Wednesdays) at 6 p.m. Silver Cloud 206 Riverview James L. Williams, Pastor 338-6822 Sunday School 9:30 , Morning worship 11:00 am, Wednesday night Bible Study 7:00 p.m. Trenton Baptist Pastor: Brother Mike Shelley S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Truevine Missionary Baptist 415 W. Garland Dr. Pastor: TBA S.S. 9:30 a.m.; 1st and 3rd Sundays 11 a.m. Wed. Bible Class 6 p.m. Tucker Grove MB PC Road 115 Marvell, AR S.S. 9:30 am W.S. 11:00 am Rev. Earnest Womack Jr.- Pastor Mt Shelly MB Church Marvell Arkansas Pastor Vincent Bell West Acre Baptist Church S.S. 9:45 a.m. W.S. 11:00 a.m. Pray meeting Wed. 7:00 p.m. West Helena Baptist 702 Plaza St. S.S. 9:30 a.m.: W.S. 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 6:30 p.m. Zion Hill Baptist - 1108 Pecan St. 338-3712 Leroy Harper Sr., Min., S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m., 1st & 3rd Sunday Zion Travelers Mis. Baptist Rev. Austin D. Hill SR Pastor 32610 HWY 44 Mellwood, AR 72367 S.S. 10:30am W.S. 11:30am CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic 123 Columbia 338-6990 - Sun. Mass: 10 a.m. CHRISTIAN First Christian Carruth St. - Marvell Alton Merchant, Min. S.S. 10 a.m.: W.S. 11 a.m.; E.S. 5 p.m. Bible Study: Wed. 6:30 p.m CHURCH OF CHRIST Hicks United Church of Christ Marvell Alton Merchant, Min. S.S. 10:00 a.m.; W.S. 9:00 a.m. Twin City Church of Christ Wallace Wally Scaife, 572-1215 S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 10:30 a.m. & 5 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Southland Church of Christ Bro. Derek Wilson, Minister 5625 Hwy 242 West I Lexa, AR 72355 S.S. 10am - W.S. 1 lam 572-2240 CHURCH OF GOD Church of God - 1736 Hwy 49 Gene Rutledge, Min., 572-2099 S.S. 10:00 a.m.; W.S. 11:00 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Church of God of Prophecy 210N.9TH Pastor: Doris Smith, 572-7587 S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. Wed. 5 p.m. Elaine Church of God Dan Wessell, Pastor S.S. 10:00 a.m. W.S. 11:00 a.m. Living Water Ministry 227 N. 8th St. West Helena Judy Carter, Pastor 572-5327 S.S. 10:00 a.m.; W.S. 11 am & 6 pm. Wed. Bible Study: 7 p.m. New Beginning Church South Seven Audie Richardson Sr., - Pastor CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Christ TempleFranklin & Jefferson, Helena Supt. Alex J. Smith, Pastor; Min. Abram Johnson, Pulpit Chairman; SS 9:00 am, MS 10:30 am, YPWW 5:00 pm. Evening Service 6:00 pm, Wednesday Prayer & Bible Band 7:00 pm, Holy Communion-Third Sundays Greater Powerhouse/Adams Temple 519 Plaza Street - Alex J. Smith, Min. First Lady-Clinton Smith S.S. 9:30 am.; W.S. 12 Noon, Tlies. Thurs, Fit, Nightly 7:30 pm St. Luke COGIC Elaine, Robert Tackett, Min. - S.S. 9:30 a.m. W.S. 11 a.m. 2nd & 4th Sun Upper Room Pentecostal COGIC Jalen Phillips, Pastor. Sunday Worship 10 am. Wednesday Prayer Service 7:00 pm. 870-995-5128 Power House COGIC - 2nd St Kim Smith, Min., 572-9901 S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. Tues. 7:30 p.m. Watson Temple Church of God Hwy 49, Lexa Tues. Bible Study 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fri. Regular Services 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sim. S.S. 9:30 to 10:30 Regular Services 10:30 to 1:30 p.m. Evening Services: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. EPISCOPAL St. John Episcopal Perry & Pecan St. Rev. Ray Brown, 338-8115 W.S. 10:30 a.m„ S.S. 9:00 a.m. Allen Temple A.M.E. - 120 S. Ashlar SS 9:30 am -10:45 am Worship: 11:00 am Each Sunday Pastor T.B. Lamb METHODIST Carter Chapel AME 419 Columbia Deborah Senter, Pastor S.S. 9:30 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Elaine United Methodist Pastor William Joe Head W.S. 9:00 am. First United Methodist in Helena 502 Porter 338-7418 Rev. Buddy Hamner S.S.9:30 a.m.; W.S. 10:30 a.m. Lexa United Methodist Pastor: Kenneth Lee - Cedar - S.S. 9:55 a.m.; W.S. 9 a.m. Marvell United Methodist Pastor: Kenneth Lee - Hwy. 49 S.S. 9:55 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Pettis Memorial CMJZ. 121 Coranza 572-5046 Pastor William C. Gant S.S.9:30 a.m.; W.S. 5 p.m. Sun. CYF: 5 p.m. Wesley Chapel A.M.E. Center & Wallace St., Marvell W. Simmons, Min., 338-8651 S.S. 9:45 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. West Helena United Methodist - 109 N. 6th St. 572-2559 Pastor William Joe Head S.S. 9:30 am.; W.S. 11 a.m. PENTECOSTAL Pentecostal Porter Kenneth D. Harman, Pastor S.S. 10 am.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. Apostolic Life Center Church 1335 Hwy 49, Marvell, AR Pastor Bishop S. R. Jackson S.S. 10 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. Tues & Thurs 7 p.m. Bible Study Thurs 7:30 p.m. Pentecostal Church of Holiness 52 ST. Francis Glenn Jackson, Min., 388-8974 S.S. 10 am.; W.S. 11 a.m. Wed. 7 p.m. United 7TH DAY ADVENTIST Seventh Day Adventist Church Hwy. 49, Bill Neptune, Min. -W.S. Sat 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Pastor Jeny Kenyon, 572-9141 Faith Lutheran Church 4525 North Washington Forrest City, AR 72335 Earl D. Burhhart, Deacon OTHER Greater Miracle Temple - 228 No. 2nd St Bro. Willie Manuel, Min. S.S. 9:30; W.S. 11:00 Tuesday Bible Study 7:30-9:00 p.m. Gods House “A Safe Place to Come To” Outreach Ministries, Inc. - Pastor: Elder Robert Davis 9th Street & Plaza 815 Plaza Street West Helena AR 72390 870-753-4050 870-995-3533 mobile Church Services Every Sunday: S.S. 9:30 am Morning Worship: 11:00 am Every Tuesday even. Bible Teachings 6:00 pm Every 2nd & 4th Sunday after service Lords Supper Free Food Pantry schedule: 1st Tuesday & 3rd Tuesday Call Pastor 870-572-0667 House of the Lord Church - 8365 Phillips 300. J.L. Sanders 572-2469 or Bill Home 572-5679 True Gospel Church - 542 Cooper St., West Helena Tony Dyce, Pastor., 870-572-9651 Sunday 10:00 am-12 noon. Sun, Evening 6pm-till, Wed. 7pm-till. Church of the Living God 700 Park Ave West Helena, AR 72390 (870) 572-7188 Pastor Jenkins P.S. 7-7:30 Wednesday B.S. 7:30-8:30 Wednesday S.S. 11am - 1pm Every 2nd Tuesday Food Pantry Giveaway NON-DENOMINATIONAL Faith Outreach Church - 1430 Springdale Rd. Jim D. Harrison,Pastor -572- LORD W.S. 10 a.m. Mid-Week Service (Wed.) 7 p.m. This local church directory is made possible by these supporting businesses that are positioned around these page. The basic church listings are provided at no charge to all our area churches. If your church is not listed or an information change is needed, please contact Andrew Bagley at [email protected] Dean Watts For more information on a sponsorship of this church directory Please contact Wally Burchett at: [email protected] or call 910-528-0244

Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER In the opener of his second season at the helm of Marvell Academy, Eagle Head Football Coach, Greg Wallace, got his first win with a narrow 40-38 victory over Union Christian Academy (Farmerville, LA) at Fletcher Field on Friday, August 18. The last win at Fletcher Field before this was September 24, 2021, when the Eagles defeated district rival North Sunflower Academy 36-26. The energy from the Eagle fans was tremendous. The Eagles began with a solid defense that held. The UCA Lions turned over the ball on downs. Positive yards from #7 Christopher Cutlip, #2 Patrick McCall, and #23 Bryce Edgin put the Eagles in scoring territory. A 5-yard run from Cutlip put the first touchdown on the scoreboard. The 2-point attempt was no good. Sam Sabbatini kicked off for the Eagles and then made two play-stopping tackles to keep the Eagles’ momentum going to end the first quarter 6-0. The second quarter started with the duo of Cutlip and McCall getting yards and first downs. However, a fumble resulted in the Lions gaining possession. A touchdown pass, coupled with the conversion, put the Lions in the lead 8-6. The Eagles weren’t ready to give up; a pass from Cutlip to #25 Jordan Strickland, gained the Eagles 25 yards. The next two attempts to run the ball left the Eagles short of their first down. On what Eagle fans called a “trick play”, Cutlip passed to McCall who tossed the ball to Strickland. Strickland ran 27 yards for an Eagle touchdown. Although the conversion attempt was no good, the Eagles took a 12-8 lead. The Eagle defense was led by #74 Will Fowler and #20 Sawyer Roth who took turns making play-stopping tackles to end the Lions’ running game. The Lions changed tactics and with completed passes, they scored and got the extra points. With the Eagles trailing 12-18, and the time winding down in the half, Cutlip came alive with a 20-yard run, a completed pass for 17 yards, and then a 7-yard run for a touchdown. At halftime, the Eagles led 18-16. In the third quarter, another Eagle fumble led to scoring by the Lions, who took the lead 24-18. The Eagles walked the ball back down the field and scored another touchdown, to tie the game 24-24. The Lions roared back and scored again in this back-and-forth scoring match. The third quarter ended with the Lions leading 32-24. Wallace started the final quarter with a passing game from Cutlip. Three successful passes moved the Eagles nearly fifty yards and resulted in a touchdown, and this time, the conversion was good. The score was again tied, 32-32. As the clock was ticking down, it was anyone’s game. The Lions scored again but missed out on the extra points. The Eagles knew it was a now-or-never situation with less than a minute on the clock and a 32-38 scoreboard. With a final pass play from Cutlip to McCall to Strickland, Strickland ran and scored a 50-yard touchdown. With the score tied 38-38, McCall scored the final conversion to give the Eagles their first victory with a 40-38 win. The Eagle crowd went wild. On their first win, Cutlip was 10/14 on passing for 160 yards, 2 touchdowns, no interceptions, rushed 11 for 101 yards, 2 touchdowns; Strickland had 6 receptions for 138 yards, 2 touchdowns, 6 tackles on defense; McCall rushed 11 for 88 yards, 1 TD, 2 conversions (one was the game-winner), five tackles on defense; Sabbatini had 11 tackles, Fowler had 4 tackles (two for loss), 1 fumble recovery; Edgin and River Bennett played well on both sides of the ball. Wallace was proud of the team and stated, “We made some mistakes and have a lot of work to do, but we played with great effort and played as a team all night. Our young guys also played a big role, stepping in and coming up big, in some very key situations. Kemper is a good team, and we will need to have a great week of practice this week.” The Eagles will travel to DeKalb, MS, on Friday, August 25 to play Kemper Academy. Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD The Desoto Thunderbirds (1-0) had no trouble with the Calhoun Academy Cougars as they scored on all six first half possessions and cruised to a mercy-rule win by a score of 50-28 in the season opener for both schools. Desoto opened the game on fire. On the second play of the game, Quarterback Ethan Phillips took a designed quarterback run over the left side and broke free for 37 yards to the Cougar 35. Four plays later, Phillips scored on a 4-yard run to cap off a 6-play, 72-yard drive. Phillips hit Clayton St. John for the two-point conversion and Sam Howe Field was coming to life with Desoto in front 8-0 with 8:35 remaining in the first quarter. On the ensuing kickoff, the T-Birds recovered the onside kick and needed only three plays to hit paydirt again. Phillips went to the air and found Peyton Gregory streaking down the field for a 35-yard touchdown pass. With 7:13 to go in the first, the two-point try was unsuccessful but Desoto had stunned the Mississippi contingent into silence on the east side of the stadium with a 14-0 lead just over two minutes into the game. Calhoun, trying to take advantage of its superior size tried to grind it down the field on the ground on its first possession. But a couple of tackles for losses stalled the drive and the Cougars were forced to punt. Desoto needed little time to make them pay. On 3rd and 1 from their own 30-yard line, Phillips handed the ball to Clayton St. John who blew past everyone on the field for a 70-yard touchdown run. After the two-point try failed, Desoto was firmly in control with a 20-0 lead with 1:37 to go in the first quarter. The Cougars tried to mount a comeback, getting on the board early in the second quarter. Calhoun scored on a 19-yard run with 8:24 to go in the first half to cap off a 6-play, 52-yard drive. The try for two was good and the Cougars had pulled within 20-8. But Calhoun’s defense had no answers for the well-oiled offensive machine that Desoto fans have become accustomed to under veteran Head Coach Sam Pearson. On the third play of the ensuing possession, Phillips connected with St. John again on a screen pass and St. John took it the distance for a 52-yard score. Phillips found Grant Dunigan for the two-point conversion to push the lead to 28-8 with 6:42 remaining in the first half. After forcing the Cougars to a three and out, Desoto needed only one play to score again, handing the ball to St. John for a 59-yard touchdown romp. The try for two failed again, leaving the Thunderbirds up 34-8. Then as time was winding down, Calhoun methodically drove from their own 39-yard line down to the Desoto three. But the Cougars fumbled the football and as the horn sounded at the end of the first half, St. John scooped it up and left everyone in the dust as he raced 96 yards for the score. St. John got the call for the two-point conversion to put the Thunderbirds up 42-8 at the intermission. After Calhoun scored on the opening possession of the second half on a 20-yard touchdown run on 4th and 13 but failed get the two-point conversion, the T-Birds responded with an 8-play, 56-yard drive capped off by a one-yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion from St. John to make it 50-14 and put the mercy rule in effect with 4:36 to go in the 3rd period. Calhoun added a couple of touchdowns as Desoto played some reserves and coasted to a 22-point win. Pearson was largely happy with the team’s performance in the season opener saying, “I am real happy. We still have some things to work on. We got a little sloppy in the second half after we pulled away. Finishing strong and playing the whole game is one of those things we need to work on.” Desoto gets to stay in the friendly confines of its 4th Street home again next week as the Thunderbirds take on Humphreys Academy. Pearson said Desoto will have to take advantage of its speed to be successful. He said, “They are big and physical. They definitely have the size advantage. So we have got to maximize the use of our speed, execute on offense and take care of the football. We were plus two on turnovers against Calhoun. We need to keep that up. We also need to make some adjustments defensively to negate their efforts to control the tempo and time of possession.” Kickoff at Sam Howe Field on Friday is scheduled for 7:00. 6A — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Local The Helena World Desoto downs Calhoun in 2023 season opener Wallace gets 1st win over Union Christian

Fred Cromwell, of North Little Rock, AR, died Sunday, August 6, 2023, at the age of 87. He was born in Memphis, TN., on May 24, 1936, and grew up in West Helena, AR. He was preceded in death by his parents, George E. Cromwell, Sr., and Margaret Graves Cromwell, and by his sister, Mary Laura Binger. He is survived by his brother, George E. Cromwell, Jr., of Alexandria, Va. Fred is also survived by his wife, Judy Cromwell, who loved him dearly; his children, Peggy Cromwell (Liz Adams) of Maumelle; Rick (Kim) Cromwell of Gulf Shores, Ala.; and Michael (Kelly) Cromwell of Oklahoma City, OK., and his three grandchildren, Mason Cromwell, Kaylee Burris, and Brooklynn Cromwell, plus two great-grandchildren, Scarlett and Bennett, and several nieces and nephews. Fred also loved his stepchildren like his own Carri (Cal) Holmes of Romance, AR and Tricia (B.J.) Homman of North Little Rock, AR.. He also leaves behind Judy’s grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a member of Fellowship Bible Church, North Little Rock. Fred touched many friends’ lives… some more than thirty years young. Fred had been an avid golfer and leaves a host of friends who will miss helping him find his golf ball. A memorial service is planned for Monday, August 28, 2023. Visitation is at 1 p.m. and Services at 2 p.m., at Saint Nicholas’ Episcopal Church, River Stone Plaza, 2001 Club Manor Drive, Suite “N”, Maumelle, AR. Obits The Helena World Local WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 7A Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER This year one of the two interns at MidDelta Health Systems, Inc., was Lauren Turner of Marvell. This was the second summer for Lauren to intern with Mid-Delta Health Systems, Inc. She interned in the Outreach Department. As part of the Outreach Department, Lauren volunteered at the Monroe County Library in Clarendon with Tricia Rogers for the second year. She helped with crafts, assisting the children, setting up, and cleaning up before and after the Summer Reading Programs each week. “Lauren is a very sweet young lady who is always willing to do whatever needs to be done and is very patient and helpful with the children,” Rogers stated. Lauren is the daughter of Thomas and Courtney Turner of Marvell. She is a junior at Mississippi State University. She is a 2021 graduate of Marvell Academy. The internship was made possible through a grant ARHP participates in with UAMS from their HRSA Value-Based Medical Student Education Training Program grant, in which one component is to support students in rural and underserved areas that are training to enter the healthcare workforce.   At Mid-Delta Health Systems, they believe in a patient-centered approach to healthcare.  Their Mission is to improve the total well-being of the Delta community by providing a welcoming healthcare home for all. MDHS has three facilities located in Clarendon, DeWitt, and Stuttgart.  Some of the services provided include comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, immunizations, and much more.  Please visit the website  www. mid-delta.org  to find out more about services and career opportunities available.  Turner interns for the second year at Mid-Delta Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER DeSoto School announced the 2023 Homecoming Court. The Homecoming Ceremony will be Friday, September 1st, at 6:00 p.m. on Sam Howe Field. The Homecoming game will follow at 7:00, when the T-Birds face the Lee Academy Cougars from Marianna. To prepare for this rival game, the student body will have a fun-filled spirit week. The 2023 Homecoming Court: Flower girl - Benton Brown (not pictured - Crown Bearer John Rivers Yancey) Front row, L to R, Merrie Leigh Taylor - Junior Maid, Emory Barnes - Sophomore Maid, Anslee Barnes - Senior Maid, Mary Pillow - Senior Maid, Harmonee Griffin - Senior Maid, and Charly Allen - Junior Maid. Back row, L to R, Morgan Allen - 7th grade Maid, Madi Wiggins - 7th grade Maid, Payslee McKaskle - 8th grade Maid, Ava Allen Loveless - Freshman Maid, Molly Wood - 8th grade Maid, Katherine Pillow - Freshman Maid, and Natalie Henson - Sophomore Maid. Desoto Homecoming Court announced Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER A few weeks ago, the Desoto Thunderbird Junior Varsity football team and Coach PK Pearson came out to volunteer with the Drop Off – Mobile Food Trailer. The football players helped to lift and load boxes of food. Coach PK was excited about the opportunity for his JV players to give back and support the Drop Off, “I think community service is very important and my JV players worked as a team to get the job done!” The Drop Off is a mobile food pantry operating in Phillips County. The Drop Off travels to a different location each month. This project is made possible by a collaborative partnership between the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, the Phillips County government, and the Arkansas Food Bank. The Drop Off is mostly grant-funded, and the mission of this program is to increase access to food, largely nutritious foods to improve wellness and health. The Drop Off locations generally are in areas that don’t have any stores whatsoever. Volunteers are needed every month to help with this important project. The Drop Off welcomes the help of individuals and groups/teams. Contact the Project Leader, Darby Treat (UA Cooperative Ext) for ways you can get involved. The Facebook page The Drop Off - Phillips County Mobile Food Trailer is the best place to find out where they are headed each month. JV T-Birds help the Drop Off

Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER Coach PK Pearson has returned to DeSoto School. Coach PK, as he’s called by his players, is the Assistant Coach for Varsity and JV Football, the Assistant Coach for Boys Varsity Basketball, and the Head Coach for the Boys JV Basketball team. Coach PK was on staff previously in 2019. The 2023-24 season is Coach PK’s ninth season as a coach in the MAIS. He began at Marshall Academy and assisted there from 2015-2018. During that time, Coach PK was young and eager to learn and help. He subbed in the classrooms when needed and helped with football and boys basketball. During that time, Marshall was very successful, winning football district titles and state basketball champ i o n s h i p s . Coach PK stated, “I learned a lot at Marshall. My dad (Sam Pearson) was coaching there, so I was able to learn from the best”. After Coach PK’s successful year at DeSoto in 2019, he then joined the coaching staff at Calhoun Academy. During his time there, his roles and responsibilities expanded. He was the assistant football coach at Calhoun, coaching alongside his brother, former DeSoto School assistant coach, JoJo Pearson. Coach PK also coached Varsity and JV basketball at Calhoun and was able to make great improvements in the basketball programs. Coach PK’s focus is on the DeSoto youth, their education, and their future. He is teaching the World Cultures class and Physical Education class at DeSoto School and is excited to be in the classroom. Whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or on the court, Coach PK tries to instill the Three Cs – communication, confidence, and character – into his students and athletes. These are critical to their growth and development. Another thing Coach PK believes in, is leading by example. He sets the example with the order of God, Family, Football as his priorities. God comes first in Coach PK’s life. On July 28, 2004, he was saved when he prayed next to his father and asked Jesus Christ to be his Lord and Savior. He is open about his salvation and his relationship with God. He believes when Christ is at the center of his life, all things will fall into place. When asked about the upcoming season, Coach PK didn’t sugarcoat his expectations. His number one expectation is for the team to strive for perfection. For Coach PK, this translates to winning everything. “The goal is NOT to be average; the goal is to win everything. It seems so many young athletes don’t set their goals high enough, excuses can be a convenient path to mediocracy. As my dad has frequently said, “Don’t tell me how rough the water is; get the boat home”. The road to State is long and grueling summer practices are tough; this is the rule, not the exception,” Coach PK explained. Although he has high expectations and is all business when it comes to winning, Coach PK applies this philosophy to all areas. “As a coach, I want my teams to win, I want the players to do their best. This expands outside the sport and into the rest of their lives. Academics and learning matter and the players will need to make it a priority. I care about all aspects of the player’s life; we are raising them into the men they will become,” Coach PK said solemnly. PK Pearson is happily married to Katie (West) Pearson. She is a Paralegal in Oxford, MS. While Coach PK is currently commuting for work, he is open to relocating closer to the Helena-West Helena area. PK Pearson returns to coach at DeSoto School Pearson 8A — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Local The Helena World

The Helena World Puzzles/Comics WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 9A

10A — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Legals/Classifieds The Helena World Subscribe Today to the Helena World Thank you for reading this edition of the Helena World

The Helena World Legals/Classifieds WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 11A Thank You for Reading this Edition of the Helena World

12A — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Recipe of the Week The Helena World Subscribe Today to the Helena World Cindy Davis HELENA WORLD FOOD EDITOR SPICY SHRIMP AND GRITS Ingredients 6 c water 1 12 oz can evaporated milk (do not use fat free) 1 ½ cups quick cooking grits 1 ½ cups coarsely grated sharp white cheddar cheese 5 slices of bacon, chopped 2 cups sliced baby bella mushrooms 1 cup chopped onion ¾ cup chopped green bell pepper 2 ¼ chopped plum tomatoes, divided 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 TBSP hot sauce Directions Saute bacon in a large skillet over medium high heat until crisp. Transfer bacon to paper towels. Add mushrooms, onion, bell pepper and 1 ½ cups tomatoes to drippings in skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Saute over medium high heat until veggies are tender and sauce is thick. . Add shrimp, hot sauce and ¾ cup tomatoes to skillet. Saute until shrimp are just opaque in center, about 5 minutes. Bring water and milk to a boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to medium. Simmer until grits are thick, stirring often, about 20 minutes. Mix in cheese, season with salt and pepper, Spoon hot grits onto plates; top with shrimp and sauce. Serves 4. I am inviting our readers to submit a favorite holiday recipe to me at [email protected]. Any category of your choice. SPICY SHRIMP AND GRITS BON APPETIT La CHOF

Wednesday, August 23, 2023 A Special Section presented by the Helena World The Helena World Fall Sports Preview * B Section 2023 Phillips County Fall Sports Preview

2B — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Fall Sports Preview The Helena World Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD Married into a family steeped in Barton Bear history and tradition, new Bear Head Football Coach Steve Sexton knows that at Barton, the “goal is a state championship.” Sexton, whose wife Kellie was a women’s basketball standout and brothers-in-law Jerry “Bruiser” Pryor and Scott Pryor both played on state championship teams for the Bears, will be looking to improve upon last year’s .500 regular season and return to the playoffs in 2023. With 32 players on the senior high roster, the Bears will have more depth than in recent years. Sexton said the Bears are particularly deep at receiver. He said, “I like to run the football, but we are going to be whatever we need to be. And we are very deep at the receiver spot. Conner Willis returns at quarterback. Leading that receiving corps will be Nataveus Johnson, who is very fast and can get open down field. Also expected to be among Willis’s reliable targets are Jacobi Lews, Derelle Daniels and Ladaveon Willis. Joining Willis in the backfield are talented running backs Braylon Harvey and DeQuincy Wilson. Sexton said, “We can go up temp or we can be deliberate. We are going to mix it up depending on our personnel and the game situation.” Across the front protecting Willis and opening lanes for the running backs, Sexton says there are eight guys looking to fill the five spots on the front line. At 6’4” and 310 pounds, Junior Gabe Gant anchors one side of the line at tackle. He is joined by Sophomore Chase Harden at the other tackle slo. Jakylin Riley snaps the football while Johnnie Sumpter and Gunner lIvingston are leading the way at the guard slots. Defensively, Sexton said to expect the Bears offer multiple looks to opposing offenses. He said, “We have one quick package and a one run package. We have a tremendous secondary. They are very solid.” Many of the skill people on offense will be playing both ways. Sexton said, “Lots of people will be seeing playing time, but those receivers are showing themselves to be excellent defenders. Among those not mentioned as an offensive starter that is expected to either start or contribute significantly on defense is Makhi Hands at cornerback. On special teams, Sexton said Landon Hernandex can kick the football and is a great addition. He said with Quaylon Green as the holder and three good deep snappers with Riley, Harvey, and Harden, “We won’t have to go for two.” Sexton also applauded the work of his staff, all but one of which is new to the program this season. Returning from last year’s staff is Stanley Gaines, who is coaching running backs and linebackers. Brian Allen, a record-setting running back at Arkansas Tech is the defensive coordinator. Fred Carter, who played at Arkansas under Lou Holtz will coach the lineman. Sexton will handle the play-calling duties. He said, “They have all been phenomenal. All care about kids and are pushing themselves to get better every day just like we push the players.” The Bears open the season Friday when they travel to DeWitt. Sexton knows importance of Barton tradition as he takes reins Helena World 2023 Fall Sports Preview **** Advertising Sales Andrew Bagley **** Writing/Photos Andrew Bagley Terri Ann Hall **** Advertising Design & Page Layout Rick Kennedy

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 3B Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD With only 25 players on the senior high roster and playing in the powerful 8-4A conference, the Helena-West Helena Central Cougars will have to avoid the injury bug in order to return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2018 season. Intending to take advantage of their speed and experience at the skill positions while compensating for a lack of linemen, Coach Russell Smith will pivot away from the double-wing formation utilized a year ago in favor of a spread formation. Smith said, “We are going to try and spread the field. We will look to the quick passing game to be an extension of the run.” Leading the offense will be Jr. Quarterback Treyzaughn Johnson. Smith says Johnson is a dual threat who is just as likely to move the ball down the field with his legs as he is his arm. When he looks to throw, Johnson will have an experienced complement of receivers. Seniors Trezon Rogers and DeTravis Fulton along with transfer Devon Green and sophomore Matt Goldsberry all have the speed and height necessary to be genuine deep threats. Smith said, “We have got some guys that can get open and catch the football.” At running back, the Cougars are more experienced with two sophomores and a junior vying for playing time. Antonio Webb, Darious Smith, and Jamarious Parker are all expected to make significant contributions on the ground. The Cougars will also have an inexperienced front five with sophomores Deminio Patterson and Anthony Brown anchoring the left side while juniors Ramon Burgess and Kiyon Hillard hold down right guard and center. Anthony Webb holds down the center slot. Defensively, Smith said to expect the Cougars to be aggressive. He said, “We coming. There is no sense in standing back and getting picked apart. We are going to try hit hard and force turnovers.” The Cougars will sport a 3-man front defensively with Patterson, Anthony Webb, and Burgess the likely starters. At outside linebacker, Antonio Webb is started to start at one spot while Green and William Sykes are expected to get significant playing time as well. Smith expects Emon Trancy, Tristian Fitzhugh and Hillard to all get extensive playing time at inside linebacker. Smith is looking to Zamarion McKinney and Fulton to lead the way at the safety position with Willie Whitfield making significant contributions at that position as well. Rogers and Goldsberry are expected to hold down the corners. With the Cougars having lost 34 of the last 35 games, Smith was asked about how he was working to instill confidence in a group that has struggled their entire careers. He said, “We are just trying to keep things positive. The guys are working hard. We are going to be playing a lot of young guys. There will be growing pains but we are going to be better.” Smith, who remains the winningest CHS coach since integration and the only one to lead them to a conference championship since the CHS Indians won one in 1948, sees a bright future for the program. He said, “The Jr. High has about 40 kids. The community has brought back peewee football and that is helping. I think the future is very promising.” Smith said the goal for the Cougars this season is to get back to playing .500 football and reach the playoffs. He said, “Everybody is focused on turning things around.” Central High Cougars Lack Depth for 2023 Campaign

4B — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Fall Sports Preview The Helena World Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER After back-to-back years of the DeSoto T-Birds making the trip to Jackson, MS, for the State Football Championship, the T-Birds are ready for the 2023 season. They are not the only ones. Aside from the players and coaches, the cheerleaders, teachers, parents, fans….basically the entire T-Bird Nation does not merely “hope” to return to State, they one hundred percent EXPECT to go to State and are counting down the days. Head Varsity Coach, Sam Pearson echoed this exact sentiment, “We are very excited about the 2023 season, it can’t get here fast enough. Expectations are high within and outside T-Bird Nation.” The DeSoto T-Birds narrowly missed going to State in 2019 and 2020. These near misses added fuel to their fire. In 2021, they won the Class A State Championship. They returned in 2022 to defend their title but fell short to Lee Academy – Marianna in the final moments of the game. Those moments have replayed in the minds of several players, and they are more determined than ever to right that wrong by winning the Class 2A State Championship this year. “We are reminded daily that we need to make each moment count if are going to reach the top. Our Seniors have been looking forward to these days ever since they first put a uniform on; it’s hard to direct the focus on “now” because the season holds so much opportunity for accomplishing the unfinished business from 2022,” Pearson stated, rolling the emotions of last season and this season into one. The T-Bird team has worked hard at practices all summer long. They have shown up, focused and ready, to do what is necessary. The philosophy can be simplified to “win every game.” “ We have unfinished business, and we have to make sure to find a way. If hard work and desire can get it done, these guys will go out Champions!” Pearson said of the T-Birds. This season, Pearson has a deep bench. The players are competing and fighting for a spot on the field while still working together as a team. Each player is expected to step up and be responsible, be a leader, but also be a good teammate. When each player can do what is expected and lead, the field is full of leaders who are ready, willing, and able to put it all on the line. This is just the T-Bird way. The Varsity team members are Ethan Phillips, Clayton St. John, Eli Pillow, Dalton Mabry, Aiden “Pnut” Liston, Wyatt King, Rance Turner, Peyton Gregory, Dawson Spakes, Hunter Kelley, Blane Smith, Landon Holland, Avery Jones, Jack Pillow, Maddox Young, Hunter Brown, Jackson Pittman, Grant Dunigan, Holden Harmon, Bogan Robbins, Matthew Gregory, Riley Vondran, Cooper Cannon, Luke Pryor, and Jenkins Ruth. Pearson is assisted by Assistant Coach Eddie Phillips, along with Ben Pittman, Demarcus Borum, Butch Turner, PK Pearson, and Nash VonKanel. Managers for the team are Carsyn Gore, Hannah Reynolds, Emily Saia, Emily Beard, Ann Marie VonKanel, and Skylar Engleman. The Varsity T-Birds first game of the season was Friday, August 18 against Calhoun Academy at Sam Howe field. T-Birds focus on the ‘now’ to win every game

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 5B Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER Marvell Academy Head Football Coach Greg Wallace has high hopes for his second season at Marvell Academy. He faced many challenges last season, one of which was tough district rivals coupled with a shallow bench. These challenges resulted in a winless season for the Varsity Eagles. However, Marvell Academy’s team has dropped down to Class A from Class 2A for the 2023-24 season, which will help them be more competitive. In addition, Marvell Academy has gained a new coach. Scott Nash has joined the Coaching Staff and is serving in the role of Defensive Coordinator OL/ DL Coach. Wallace is excited about Assistant Coach Nash, “Coach Nash is coming in and done a great job as Defensive Coordinator. We spend a lot of time being physical in practice. Coach Nash has been working on tackling and making stops. Tackling is something the team struggled with last season but shouldn’t be a problem going forward.” The Varsity Eagles still struggle with bench depth season, but Wallace feels this won’t be an issue unless the team has injuries. That’s why his number one goal for the season is no injuries. He feels the effort that has been shown at practice and in the weight room has prepared the players for the rigors of each game. “We had record attendance at summer practices this year and probably record effort since I’ve been here for sure. The kids came in on their own. We didn’t have to chase them down. They were here, on time, and ready to work,” Wallace said. Wallace sets sights on District Title for Eagles The Varsity Eagles have several new players this season. Wallace sees this as an asset, “We have some new blood, and they want to be part of what we’re doing. They want to be good. They jumped right in and boughtin to the entire culture. They work hard. They do what you ask them to. They have been great teammates; they don’t miss practice. They don’t cut rips, they don’t cut corners, so I’m happy with them. They are a good fit.” A few players that are standing out as leaders are Christopher Cutlip, Jordan Strickland, and River Bennett. According Wallace, these players are paying attention to details, give maximum effort, and are good teammates, leaders, and role models. He feels this leadership with the team’s full effort is the key to winning each game and ultimately winning the District Title. The Varsity Eagles played their first game on August 18 at Fletcher Field against Union. Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The newest addition to the Marvell Academy Eagle Coaching Staff is Coach Scott Nash. He will be the Assistant Varsity Football Coach, Head JV Football Coach, and Head Baseball Coach for the 2023-2024 school year. Nash is a 2005 graduate of Blue Mountain Christian University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science with a minor in Bible. He has served as an educator and coach for 18 years in both the MAIS and public schools in Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and even abroad in the Czech Republic. He has coached several sports throughout his career, including football, basketball, baseball, fastpitch soft - ball, and t r a c k . Nash has acquired Dis - trict and N o r t h S t a t e Championships in baseball, and a State RunnerUp finish, while also being selected as a District Coach of the Year in 2015. He was also part of the State Championship coaching staff at Canton Academy last season. The Corinth, MS, native is especially excited to serve in the role of Defensive Coordinator OL/DL Coach for the Varsity Eagles this fall and hopes to assist Head Coach Greg Wallace with building and expanding the boys’ athletic programs at Marvell Academy. “What stands out to me about Coach Nash is his willingness to be involved with mentoring and coaching our students in all facets, both on and off the field. He is an excellent teacher, he facilitates competitiveness, and he supports our mission to mold wellrounded, Christian young men. His multisport coaching experience is a perfect fit for Marvell Academy, and we are beyond excited to have him as part of our Eagle Family,” stated the Head of School, Robin Chastain. “I am excited to be an Eagle, and I’m looking forward to a great year,” Nash said of the upcoming year. Nash joins MA coaching staff Nash

4B — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Fall Sports Preview The Helena World

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview * C Section Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD After a summer that Marvell-Elaine High School Football Coach Jarred Murphy described as filled with “adversity and upheaval,” the Mustangs are ready to focus on football and get back to the 8-man playoffs. While MESD staff, students, and families didn’t know who was going to be running the district for much of the summer due to a lawsuit brought by a small group of disgruntled MarvellElaine patrons and central Arkansas activists, Murphy set out to start preparing for football season. The 24-yearold graduate of Mississippi Valley State University and Marvell-Elaine alum focused on the positive and his own excitement to come home and coach his alma mater. He said, “It has always been a passion to come back home and help Marvell-Elaine High School. I am excited to be the head football coach and PE teacher. Murphy said eleven players went through summer workouts but that he hoped more would show up when school starts. He said that the Mustangs have some talent on the field to work with. Anchoring the front line will be Laron Harris who comes in at 6’4” and 310 lbs. Bendarius Boyd will be the top running back with Terry Bledsoe expected to anchor the receiving corps. Jabaris Green will be the field general for the Mustangs at quarterback. Murphy said he wants to emphasize running the football saying, “I want to be able to run the football. We want to use our speed to get to the corners. Then we will throw it when we need to.” Defensively, Murphy said the options are wide open. He said, “We are still learning the team and assessing where people fit in best on the defensive side. We have been getting good effort from everyone in practice. I expect we will be very competitive.” When asked about his goals in his first season at the helm, Murphy channeled some themes from Elton John saying, “To show everyone that Marvell-Elaine is still standing…And we want to make the playoffs. Fall Sports Preview The Helena World 2C — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Mustangs glad to get back to football Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Marvell Academy Lady Eagles Softball team is ready for the new season. Since last year, there has been a change in their district, and the Lady Eagles are now in the MAIS District 1-2A. Other schools in this district include Lee Academy – Marianna, Calhoun Academy, and Delta Academy. The team is led by Head Coach Dub Reyna and Assistant Coach Tiffany Wooten. Reyna had mild concerns going into the pre-season tournaments. Due to busy and conflicting summer schedules, the first time all nine starters were on the field together was at their first tournament at Tunica Academy. However, his concerns quickly faded. The Lady Eagles played well and meshed together. “We’ve been real competitive, especially against some of these bigger schools. We’ve been close on just about every game. They have had a chance to win on the games we lost, so now we’re just working out kinks,” Reyna said of the season so far. The team is promising with seven of nine starters returning to the field. Of those seven, four are seniors; Mabry Hall, Ella Hindsley, Reese Schaffhauser, and Kynsley Wooten. These four are playing positions that they each have experience with. Kynsley is an experienced and dependable pitcher. Ella is back at first base, after a short stint as their catcher during a few earlier games in the pre-season. Mabry is playing second base, she made sever key plays at this position last year. The left field position is being played by Reese. These experienced senior players will be the backbone of the team. The team has one junior, Laney Wallace. The two sophomores are Katelyn Bartlett and Addison Ford. The Freshmen are Lindsey Wallace, Bella Walker, Annaline Jackson, and Austin Camp. Kylee Holder, Addison Chastain, and Amelia Brown are the 8th graders. The 7th graders are Kenzie Cook, Miya Mora, Hadley Booker, Audrey Kemmer, Rylee Hall, Mary Igou, Conley Ferebee, and Kori Jackson Hislip. The 6th graders are Olivia Chastain, Perry Brown, Kareline Chastain, Bennett Powell, Kemmer Gurley, and Macie Gibbs. When asked about his gut feeling for the season, Reyna said, “I’m optimistic. I think we’re going to be where we need to be once district play starts. I think if the team plays the way that I know they can play, we could take it a long way. We could go forward into the playoffs.” Lady Eagles Softball looking for successful season

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 3C Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Marvell Academy Cross Country team has two established leaders returning to lead the girls’ team this season, McKenzie Beliew and Kayla Johnson. McKenzie Beliew is a senior, and this will be her 3rd year running. Kayla Johnson is in 9th grade, and it will be her 4th year running. The members of the team also include Macy Ward, Audrey Kemmer, Isabella Bartlett, Kemmer Gurley, Macie Russell, Perry Brown, and Kareline Chastain. The team has been training and running all summer. These young ladies are looking forward to the first meet of the season. The number of runners fluctuates from year to year. This year will be a rebuilding year for the team, and Coach April Johnson is excited for the upcoming season. She has nine runners and knows that it is possible other students will come out for the team in the first few weeks of school. Regardless, Coach Johnson has a dedicated group and is proud of the effort she has seen so far this season. The first meet is scheduled for Tuesday, August 29th, in Jonesboro. Marvell Academy Cross Country is ready to run Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Marvell Academy Cheer Team is ready to cheer and shout at the first football games! The Varsity Cheer Team cheered on the Eagles in their opener last Friday against Union. The JV Cheer Team will get started this week when the JV Eagles travel to West Helena to play the JV T-Birds on Thursday, August 24. Both teams participated in NCA Cheer Camp at the end of May. The cheerleaders learned new cheers, chants, and dance routines. They worked on stunts and jumps, as well. Two JV cheerleaders (Dru McCormick and Kayla Johnson) and four varsity cheerleaders (Mabry Hall, Ella Hindsley, Katie Kale, and Reese Schaffhauser) were selected for the NCA All-American Team. The JV Cheerleaders are Isabella Bartlett, Conley Ferebee, Rylee Hall, Kori Jackson Hislip, Audrey Kemmer, Amelia Brown, Addison Chastain, Kayla Johnson – Co-Captain, and Dru McCormick – Co-Captain The Varsity Cheerleaders are Briley Bartlett, Alyssa Davis, Bentley McCoy, Sydney Medford, Katie Kale, Madison Lambert, Mabry Hall, Ella Hindsley, Kynsley Wooten, and Reese Schaffhauser – Captain. The teams are coached by Allison Kale and April Johnson. MA Cheer Team is ready for football season

Fall Sports Preview The Helena World 4C — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER After four years of the Lady T-Birds having a predominantly young team, it is finally their time. The Lady T-Birds softball players are seniors Anslee Barnes #38, Sarah Lane Riddell #32, Harmonee Griffin #8, and Jaycee Worstell #7; juniors Raelynn Darby #9, Charly Allen #22, and Carsyn Gore #1; sophomore Emory Barnes #3, Olivia Rawlings #12, and Josie Wooten #75; Freshman Kourtney Mabry #11; 8th graders Payslee Mckaskle #99, Eden Garrison #13, and Andersyn Watson #25; and 7th graders Morgan Allen #2 and Madi Wiggins #6. The Lady T-Birds are in MAIS District 1, Class 3A. Their district includes Tunica Academy, North Sunflower Academy, West Memphis Christian, and Regents (however at the time of print Regents is not fielding a softball team). After being the underdog team with many young players for the last four years, the Lady T-Birds expect to be a top contender this year. They have worked hard for years and seen their share of successes and disappointments, but this may just be their year to go all the way. However, Head Coach Alan Barnes is cautious in his optimism. He knows that anything can happen and expects the unexpected. This holds true with injuries. The team has a few players that have faced injuries and are currently recovering. Even with these struggles, the team has finished in second place in both pre-season tournaments. “We are a competitive team and I feel like we can compete with anyone. We are right there; we just haven’t gotten over that hump. The players have had to play out of position, and we have younger players stepping up to fill positions. The team has been competitive in every game, even with the bigger schools; I expect big things from them this season,” Coach Barnes stated. The DeSoto Softball coaching staff has expanded this season. Joining Head Coach Barnes and Assistant Coach Rob Kendrick are Joe Garner Jr. and Morgan Spakes. With the additional coaches, the team should be able to accomplish more at their practices and be better prepared for games. The team is relying on the leadership of a few key players. Senior Anslee Barnes, junior Raelyn Darby, and sophomore Emmy Barnes have stepped up to help guide and lead their team. These three players are humble but fiercely competitive; they know the team has been building for this year and they plan to make is as successful as possible. Lady T-Bird Softball team hopes to reap rewards Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The DeSoto Cheer Squads are ready to cheer on the mighty T-Birds. The Junior High and Senior High Squads attended Cheer Camp in Jonesboro at Arkansas State University June 6th-8th. They were able to meet and compete against other squads from all over Arkansas and even some from out of state. Liz Bird and Tasha Mitchell are the Cheer Squad sponsors. Four Junior High and five Senior High Cheerleaders were named All-American Cheerleaders. The Junior High Cheerleaders were Eden Garrison, Payslee McKaskle, Liz Cunningham, and Morgan Allen. The Senior High Cheerleaders were Harmonee Griffin, Emmy Barnes, Sarah Lane Riddell, Mary Pillow, and Claudia Pittman. The 2023-24 Junior High Cheerleaders are Ava Allen Loveless – Captain, Sara Beth Mitchell - Co-Captain, Katherine Pillow, Kinsley Helton, Hazel Hunt, Eden Garrison – All-American, Andersyn Watson, Addison Mayville, Molly Wood, Payslee McKaskle - All-American, Zeina Asad, Morgan Allen - All-American, Maddi Wiggins, Liz Cunningham - All-American, and Aubrie Jones. They will cheer on the JV T-Birds on August 17th, when they travel to Deer Creek. The 2023-24 Senior High Cheerleaders are Anslee Barnes – Captain, Mary Pillow – Co-Captain and AllAmerican, Sydnee Johnston - Co-Captain, Claudia Pittman - All-American, Sarah Lane Riddell - All-American, Harmonee Griffin - AllAmerican, Merrie Leigh Taylor, Charly Allen, Maddie O’Bryant, Allie Reynolds, Mollie Lewis, Raelynn Darby, Emory Barnes - AllAmerican, Kirkley Rawls, Jewel Brokeshoulder, and Jenna Reed. Thunderbird Cheer Squad is here to cheer

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 5C Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD When Michael Roca came to Helena from the Philippines, he never expected to be sitting at the end of the bench coaching, but the computer science teacher is the new head coach of CHS Volleyball, a once proud program with four state championships that will be taking the court for the first time since 2019 this fall. Roca, who has coached men’s volleyball and played the game in his home country, mentioned his past experience to the administration in HWHSD one day. The next thing he knew, he was coaching. He said, “I want to share these skills and knowledge.” Roca says his philosophy is grounded in a system where the main fundamentals are “receiving and spiking.” He said he looked forward to teaching that system to his new team saying, “We’ve got to start with basics. That’s most important. If we don’t have good strategy, everything else is useless.” Depth will be a concern for the Cougars, with just seven varsity players completing summer workouts. But Roca was upbeat saying, “We expect more to show up the first week of school. It’s really like we are starting a new program” When asked about his goals for the season, Roca was realistic with a team that will not be playing a conference schedule because the school did not declare its intentions in time under AAA rules and didn’t hire Roca until near the end of the last school year. He said, “We are expecting good effort and steady improvement every game. We want to play well. Winning trophies will be a great bonus. Computer Science Teacher reviving CHS Volleyball with ‘New System’ Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD Entering her 3rd season, Barton Volleyball Coach Chastan Carpino says the goal is to get better each season. For the coach that has taken the young program to new heights, that means returning to the state tournament and contending for a conference title. After her first season saw Barton grab a 4-seed in the state tournament and her second campaign brought home a winning season and a 3-seed, Carpino knows that the Bears won’t be sneaking up on anyone. But she says she believes this team can be in the upper echelon of the conference. Carpino said, “We want to get better every day in practice. We want to improve on last season.” That would mean at least a second-place finish in conference play and a return to the state tournament. To accomplish those goals, the Bears will be counting on the leadership of senior and two-time All-Stater Jesalyn Carpino, the Libero. The coach said, “We are looking to her to do multiple things. She can pass and she can generate points. She is our cornerstone.” Also expected to make a significant contribution senior Kiersten Long. Carpino described long as “tall and athletic” and said, that she expects Long to “help us at the net. She can pass the ball in the middle as well.” Carpino also expects junior Chelsea Camp to step up after sitting out last season due to a broken foot suffered in the first game last season. Sophomore Tab Moore is expected to see significant playing time after helping lead the junior high team to a conference title last season. Carpino also cited the team’s increased level of experience as a significant asset as it attempts to break through and win the first conference title in school history. She said, “We have more game experience and we have some kids returning that played a lot last year as 9th graders.” With the program on the cusp of raising the bar at Walnut Corner, Carpino hopes the community will fill the seats at the Partners Bank Gymnasium. She said, “I would really like to see the community come out and see these girls play. We are a program on the rise and have an exciting product to watch. It’s exciting.” Barton Volleyball looks to take another step under Carpino

6C — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 Fall Sports Preview The Helena World

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview * D Section Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Fall Sports Preview The Helena World 2D — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23. 2023

The Helena World Fall Sports Preview WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023 — 3D

Fall Sports Preview The Helena World 4D — WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2023