Rick Kennedy HELENA WORLD The February 7 regular meeting of the HelenaWest Helana City Council had little in official actions, but was heavy on discussions about the role of city government in condemna - tions. The big expected vote of the night -- to ratify the budget that was passed by a 4-3 vote last week -- was derailed as two of the council members, Monica Davis and LaToya Harris, were absent. Council member Don Etherly moved to table the ratification until the next meeting. Council member Kyle Miller expressed his concern that voting to ratify was inconsistent with his previous vote against the budget. HWH Mayor Christopher Franklin then introduced a pair of bills that he said the city needed to be paid. Franklin said, “These invoices are over the Mayor’s spending limit, but we need these things done.” Franklin presented bills for Brent Tag Midsouth at over $6,000 and Core and Main over $8,000 The council approved payment of the bills by a 4-0-2 vote. From that point, much Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD After HWHSD Superintendent Keith McGee and Board President Sandra Bagley met with MESD Superintendent Katina Ray and MESD Board President Clyde Williams and elaborated on their visit, both recommended and the HWH School Board agreed that no action be taken to pursue a voluntary consolidation or annexation with the Marvell–Elaine School District. MESD, which is in Level V because of chronically low test scores and does not qualify for a waiver from the state’s 3 5 0 - s t u d e n t enrollment minimum, has until March 1 to submit a voluntary plan to the state. If a voluntary plan is submitted, the State Board of Education will take it up in March. If one is not, the State Board of Education has until May 1 to impose a plan. McGee laid out the difference between a voluntary consolidation and an involuntary annexation, noting that in a voluntary consolidation a new Please see HWHSD on 2A Visit our website: www.helenaworld.org February 15, 2023 • Single copy $1.25 Volume 152 • Number 07 © 2022, Helena World Chronicle, LLC Please see MESD on 2A TO BE CONTINUED... HWHSD declines voluntary MESD merger Condemnations dominate discussions at HWH meeting Franklin McGee Ray Please see CITY on 2A This rendering, produced in 2016 by Lewis-Elliott Architects, HWHSD’s architectural firm and promoted by HWHSD during the 2017 millage campaign, clearly show the district’s plan promised voters an expansion of the CHS Gymnasium that would include retractable visitor side seating and enough additional square footage that multiple teams could practice simultaneously and the facility could host regional and state tournaments. Those elements are not in the second phase of renovations recently approved, leaving some Board members to call for immediately starting the planning for a third phase to fulfill all of the promised made to the taxpayers when the millage for facilities was passed. Andrew Bagley HELENA WORLD Members of the Helena-West Helena School Board grilled Superintendent Keith McGee during their discussion and ultimate approval of a second phase of renovations to the CHS Gymnasium, which does not include all of the upgrades promised to the voters. The second phase, which will cost $4.7 million and be paid for by a combination of building funds and ESSER funds from the COVID pandemic, does not include the addition on the west side of the facility promised during the millage campaign. The gym project has been a political football ever since previous Board members Sanetta Davis and Earnest Simpson began calling for changes to scale back the plan. The Helena World began reporting on those efforts in 2019. The Helena World has architectural renderings produced by Lewis-Elliott Architects and used by the district during the millage campaign that clearly show a set of visitor side seating that would be retractable. The addition would have added enough room for multiple teams to be able to practice simultaneously. McGee included a memo in the packet asking for approval of what is clearly a scaleddown plan that said, “This Gym renovations approved; portions promised to voters not included
Local The Helena World 2A — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Subscribe to the Helena World Court Dispositions MESD HWHSD CITY Morris Carver was found guilty for Nor Drivers License. Kendale Davis was found guilty for Careless and Prohibited Driving, No Seat Belt, Operating ATV on Public Hwy. district is created and both sides, including employees, are on a level playing field. He said, “Everyone starts from scratch and you have to elect a new board.” With an involuntary annexation, the receiving district is in the driver’s seat as the smaller district is simply dissolved and its property, debt, and territory is transferred to the district where they are being sent. Bagley pointed out that based on the information she had received from Attorney Cody Kees, which was not included in the packet provided to the media, any potential voluntary plan would require a public notice to be published in the respective local newspapers for two weeks, which made making a decision essential. McGee, after the Board had discussions of the dangers of having to assume Marvell-Elaine’s $3.9 million debt and holding board elections so soon after a wholesale election and reapportionment had just been completed, said, “I recommend you do nothing and let the State Board make the decision…The State Board has the final say.” Bagley added, “We are here to represent the best interests of the students, staff, and stakeholders of the Helena-West Helena School District…We are not raising our hands to volunteer. Let’s wait and see what the state has to say.” Board Vice-President Drew Smith also pointed out that his review of the financial analysis indicated a merger would put a financial strain on the district, noting the steadily declining student counts projected for the area and the built in expense of transportation and maintenance and upkeep of the MESD facilities, even if the campus is closed. He said, “Even if we get that debt forgiven, we would still have a $1.5 million deficit.” The Board ultimately decided not to take action to pursue a voluntary consolidation with MESD. Only one other district has publicly expressed interest in any voluntary arrangement with MESD and that is Lee County. price will complete the gymnasium project that was approved by the citizens of the Helena-West Helena community.” That prompted immediate questioning from Board Secretary Loistyne Burrell. During a discussion of the visitor side seating and related additions, Burrell asked McGee, “Will this keep our promise to the taxpayers?” McGee said, “I have never seen a plan with that in it?” Burrell later said, “You can’t find the money to keep our promises to the taxpayers?” Board President Sandra Bagley told McGee, “We need to have a Phase II to keep our promise to the voters.” Bagley continued, “This isn’t just for vanity. This is also about economic development. We can’t have tournaments and other events at a onesided gym.” Bagley also added it was an urgent matter since the voters had been betrayed by the administration and board that came between the one that got the millage passed and the one in place today. She said, “We need to get this project back on track. The previous board’s delay has cost us money by letting costs increase.” In response to Bagley’s call for a Phase III to keep the district’s word to the voters, McGee said, “I want to do it when we get additional money.” The district has the authority to issue second-lien bonds backed up by its current revenues that could be used to complete the project and keep its promise. This second of the next hour was spent discussing city condemnations. City Attorney Andre Valley presented a Condemnation ordinance from the Arkansas Municipal League, which did not include vacant lots. Valley said the city had a separate ordinance to deal with vacant lots. Valley said city code enforcement, needed everyone to be involved with coordination across multiple departments. Valley said, “The process ends with the city attorney’s office.” Valley said that the city presently had two persons working in code enforcement on payroll at this time. Valley also said there were approximately 100 properties that needed attention. Valley said the city was getting an inventory of properties. Valley said, “We are gong to send letters out.” Valley said the new AML version of the code enforcement would fast track the process. It would also enable the council to use resolutions instead of ordinances. Valley described the current condemnation process as a “civil process here, but a criminal process to a judge.” Valley claimed the city never could get enough information to move forward with the process on a wider scale. Miller noted, “We have issues with broken down cars.” Miller said the council needed a chance to read the AML proposal. The Council also heard from Planning Commission member Amoz Eckerson. Eckerson suggested that it important to break down list of fines. Valley said that fines would be up to the judge. Eckerson said that failed code enforcement could be a present day opportunity for new income streams. Eckerson claimed that he identified 28 properties in the downtown area alone that violated the current city ordinances on the books. “That is potential fines of $12,000 per day that are not being collected,” Eckerson said. Eckerson also noted that property tax rates were an average of $5,000 but only an average of $2,000 on dilapedated properties. “You are in affect rewarding these property owners to do nothing. They get a discount for not taking care of their properties,” Eckerson said. Eckerson claimed the city was missing out on nearly a quarter million a year in lost revenues. Eckerson also noted that buildings in use are paying taxes, while old and unused buildings are getting a break. Eckerson suggested the city impose what he called a “vacancy tax.” Eckerson also proposed the establishment of a new $600,000 per year code enforcement department. Eckerson said, “That may sound like a lot, but a full department can make the city money.” Franklin said, “We need to be involved.” Eckerson offered that the code enforcement dept. should be a fullfledged city department just like the police and fire departments. Valley said that the Santitation Dept. is supposed to tear down houses, but there has been a lack of documentation on the work presented to him. Valley said, “There have been no liens because that part has been missing.” Valley also said that third-party buyers are purchasing the properties, and then quickly selling them off to other owners. Valley said, “There has been some low level flipping going on.” Franklin said, “Once you tear them down, then you have to replace with something. Good and affordable housing is part of people not coming to Helena.” Franklin said, “We don’t have enough love for this community. We have so many agendas, and we have a lack of respect for individuals.” The council also heard an update on the water boil order from Chief of Staff James Valley. Valley also noted that “Word Street is operating like a ditch. Word Street is a mess.” Subscribe to the Helena World Call Us Today at 501-500- 0520 ext. 1
The Helena World Opinions WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 — 3A Last week, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders released more details of her education plan and, like any large legislative package, it has a lot of good and a few bitter pills to swallow. But at the end of the day when we look at the big picture of the plan, it is a major step forward in our ongoing quest to provide the children of this state an adequate and equitable education. First, it mandates a starting salary for all teachers of $50,000 and guarantees all teachers in the state a raise. That is huge and will take Arkansas from near the bottom in teacher salaries to a placement in the Top-5 in the country. Currently, a new teacher in the Helena-West Helena School District makes $36,779. Moving to $50000 puts us in a position to recruit teachers when you combine other positive factors like the low cost of housing in our community. While we have some things that we will still have to work on both at 305 Valley Drive and on Perry Street, this is a huge start. Second, the commitment by Governor Sanders to fund 120 literacy coaches to deploy where districts have low literacy rates like we do in Helena is a substantial commitment to working to improve literacy instruction as these specialists will work with teachers to improve teaching. Governor Sanders is also putting some teeth into her proposal by saying if students cannot read at grade level by the third grade then we will stop social promotion and crippling those students forever by insisting that the child master reading skills before moving on to fourth grade. What we do now is unconscionable and, in Helena-West Helena, approximately eight out of ten students are not reading at grade level today. Third, there are measures included to reward good teaching. In any industry, incentives work to improve production. Governor Sanders’s proposal rewards those teachers who get good results by making it possible for them to earn up to $10,000 bonuses. Our current situation where a teacher who sits and reads the paper makes the same as the one who engages students and enhances their skills stifles motivation and ultimately kills morale. Fourth, for far too long the Arkansas Teacher Fair Dismissal Act has served to protect bad teachers because you need to kill a tree to produce the paperwork needed to fire a teacher for incompetence. With all that administrators have to do and should do, we shouldn’t make it hard to get rid of someone that everyone in the building knows either can’t teach, won’t teach, or doesn’t care about kids. Our publisher sat on the HWH School Board for 5.5 years and has recounted how the Fair Dismissal Act and its odious and onerous paperwork requirements were used to lengthen the careers of those who shouldn’t be in any classroom and are stealing our children’s future away from them by not providing the instruction needed so they can succeed in life. Finally, the Governor’s package puts more funding into school safety and mental health for our students. This has been underfunded without appropriate attention for far too long. Too many of our students face challenges that we couldn’t imagine as kids. I have seen students who didn’t know where the night meal would come from which made the school meals so important. I have had students tell me they roamed the streets all night because their parent or guardian put them out of the house to have company. This list could go on and on but I remember many instances throughout my career in K-12 that sent me home in near tears at night. Safety and mental health are real needs and I am glad that Governor Sanders is tackling this as a part of her package. There will be those that hone in on one part of this or another and maybe in an ideal world all of this would be voted on separately. The parliamentarians of the House and Senate will have to deal with that question. But if it all comes up at once in one bill, then we can’t, to paraphrase Voltaire, let the perfect be the enemy of the good. And this bill has more good than bad in our opinion. Governor’s Education Plan a Step Forward No More Millages Until CHS Gym Promise Kept By Andrew Bagley Publisher There are few in this community that are more passionate about the importance of public schools for our students and our community than I have been. My political blood was shed to prove it. Our students deserve schools as good as any in Northwest Arkansas or in suburban Little Rock. I saw shortly after I was appointed President of what was then the Advisory Board during HWHSD Takeover II that the facilities in place then were unacceptable. Superintendent John Hoy and I began developing a plan for the high school and implementing the one that called for a new building at Wahl that was developed by Suzann McCommon and Ulicious Reed. The plan we came up with and ultimately campaigned on and won with was approved by former Board President Sanetta Davis, former Vice-President Earnest Simpson, and current member Troy Bobo. Former members Lynn Chadwick, Lynn Boone, the late Leroy Charles and myself rounded out the rest of that Board’s roster. We paid cash out of money saved to build what is now the Eliza Miller Building at J. F. Wahl Elementary, but the needs at the high school were much greater and the need much more urgent. So we developed a plan that required the property tax to rise by 9.75 mills to fund it. And the voters supported it after a grueling and bruising campaign that I emerged from with health problems that require regular visits to a cardiologist almost six years later. This community took a chance and said we need to support our public schools even as many feared about being betrayed once again as it had been so often by our school district. Lo and behold, an election threw me out, John Hoy chose to leave, and the previous Board led by Davis and prodded along by Simpson betrayed us once again. And this newspaper has chronicled that betrayal for the history books going back to before Chuck and I bought this publication. Davis and Simpson led that Board, which included current members Williams and Bobo backing them up as early as 2019, to approve scaling back the gym plans and breaking the promise to the people as they added jobs that weren’t needed and staff traveled around the country to high dollar conferences. Fast forward to our coverage today of last week’s School Board meeting. An attempt was made to claim that this second phase of renovation would “complete the project approved by the citizens of the Helena-West Helena community.” We are fortunate that Board Secretary Loistyne Burrell, who was the lone voice on the previous board against breaking the promises made to the taxpayers, provided the institutional memory and questioned that assertion. As her campaign slogan said, “She’s for right.” And once again she came through defending the jaded voters of this community who voted for a comprehensive gym renovation. Board President Sandra Bagley spoke up as well about the importance of keeping your word and noted the economic and community development potential of having a facility capable of hosting regional and state tournaments along with other events that would draw visitors to our community and its hotels and restaurants. Bagley called for planning of a “Phase III” to immediately begin while Phase II proceeds that would include all elements of the promised plan and make the facility what the community envisioned when they walked into that voting booth and said YES! Current Superintendent Keith McGee said, “I want to do it when we get additional money.” I want to preface what I am about to say by making it clear I like Dr. McGee. I have respect for Dr. McGee and I believe he can move the district forward if he embeds himself and his family in our community and commits to HWHSD for the long haul. I know he wasn’t here when those who sacrificed politically and financially to get our students top-notch facilities were subsequently betrayed after their sacrificial efforts. However, THERE SHOULD BE NO ADDITIONAL MILLAGE APPROVED FOR HWHSD UNTIL THE PROMISES MADE DURING THE LAST CAMPAIGN ARE KEPT WITH EXISTING REVENUES. I never thought I would ever see myself write those words. I have never voted against a school millage. But to ask the voters for more after such a blatant example of failing to keep your word is simply unacceptable and unconscionable. HWHSD has some room to leverage its existing millage to issue second-lien bonds that could cover the final phase. And that’s what this board should direct the administration to do. Anything less than that is a betrayal that allows those that campaigned against the millage to say, “I told you so” and deprives our students and community of the kind of facilities they were promised and deserve. Senators seem to be ‘Swift-boating’ on real problems By Rick Kennedy Columnist It is beyond dispute that a number of very real problems and kitchen table topics are clearly visible in the United States. We are seeing gas prices rise again, even as Forbes published an article saying that Chevron Oil was spending some $74 billion in stock buybacks. And although the national media keeps claiming that inflation is supposedly going down, I keep seeing the big three commodities at my local grocery store -- that would be milk, eggs and bread -- keep going up, up, and up. Against the backdrop of these issues as well as skyhigh healthcare and insurance premiums, we have had the United States Senate, specifically the Senate Judiciary Committee, open up an investigation of what they somehow deem as the most pressing of matters... Taylor Swift tickets. Yes, we must get to the bottom of TicketMaster’s practices selling tickets for Taylor Swift concerts across the country. Nothing like a bunch of angry moms and teenage girls to get the gears of the US Senate moving. That the US Senate’s Judicary Committee is even dealing with this subject, instead of Chevron or corporate greed, just goes to show you where their priorities lie. And, it is not with everyday Americans. As for TicketMaster, apparently they do have a near monopoly on the concert business in our country, and they apparently also encounter troubles with “bots” on their Internet ticket sales. These “bots” are automated to buy up the tickets for scalpers, who then turn around and sell them for outrageous profits. Somehow, the folks at TicketMaster haven’t figured out how to sell on line with real human interaction as does Amazon or Walmart. In reading up on this case, I learned that TicketMaster is part of a another company, whose job is to book venues and schedule these concerts across the country. If I read correctly, this TicketMaster-affliated company has contracts with 85-percent of the big concert venues in the country. I guess that qualifies as a monopoly, if I’ve every seen one. And, of course, we all know what monopolies do. don’t we? Swift, despite being the current biggest artist in the world right now, is attempting to fight these guys. So, did acts like Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, and Bruce Springsteen. All of them, however, figured out it was better -- and more profitable -- to join them rather than beat them. I haven’t figured out why the biggest stars like Swift or Beyonce don’t self-promote, but maybe the United States Senate can figure that one out for us. It’s not like they don’t have anything else better to do, right?
Local/Religion The Helena World 4A — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Dr. Keith Roach SPONSORED FEATURE DEAR DR. ROACH: I have read that there is a correlation between the use of statins and suicide in men over 60, especially if they have suffered from chronic depression. Can you tell me if this has been studied more? -- K.M. ANSWER: This concern has been studied extensively. An older class of cholesterol medication, the fibrates, was associated with a small increased risk of suicide and violent deaths, in several large studies. However, a very large study published in 2020 showed no increase in risk of death by suicide among those taking statin drugs. In fact, that study, as well as several others, have shown a decrease in depression risk among statin users. Statins have even been found to be (modestly) effective in treatment of drug-resistant depression. Men over 60 are certainly at a higher risk from death by suicide, but statin drugs do not appear to increase that risk. Anyone with thoughts of hurting themselves should seek care from their doctor, a mental health professional, or the suicide and crisis lifeline at 988 in the U.S. and 833-456-4566 in most Canadian provinces. *** DEAR DR. ROACH: I am 74. I have always been described as small-boned. I am on a statin, but otherwise, I’m healthy. I was recently diagnosed with osteopenia. I do not eat dairy, but I do take vitamin D. I am vegetarian and eat lots of tofu. I am very concerned about taking any additional medicines. Suggestions, please? -- F.M.D. ANSWER: Osteopenia, or low bone density, is analogous to borderline diabetes or elevated blood pressure. It’s not a disease in itself, but it puts you in a range between the healthiest condition and one that can put you at risk. In the case of osteopenia, you are at a higher risk for developing osteoporosis, which, in turn, puts you at a high risk for a fracture, especially one of the spine or the hip. We do not normally treat low bone density with medicine. Lifestyle interventions to help slow loss of bone density include not only the calcium and vitamin D you are taking, but I especially recommend exercise. Weight-bearing, muscle-strengthening and posture exercises are proven to help. Smokers should quit. You should have gotten a T-score on your report, which compares your bone density for a given bone to a healthy young adult. The worse the T-score, the closer you are to osteoporosis, which is a T score below -2.5. Depending on how close you are to osteoporosis, the sooner your bone density test should be repeated. People with osteoporosis should be considered for medication. I understand your concern about taking more medicine than you need, but you really don’t want a hip fracture to occur. *** DR. ROACH WRITES: In a recent column on glaucoma, I described it as a disease of the retina. Several eye physicians wrote to clarify that it is actually a disease of the optic nerve. Eye professionals look in the back of the eye at the optic nerve for “cupping,” which is an increase in the size of the optic cup related to the loss of nerve cells in the retina. But the site of the damage is in the optic nerve, where there is a difference between the eye pressure and blood pressure, either from high pressure inside the eye or from very low blood pressure. Many people with glaucoma who have normal pressures inside the eye have low blood pressure. Reducing pressure inside the eye remains the preferred treatment. I appreciate the clarifications, especially from Dr. Peter Libre at Columbia University. *** This Helena World feature is sponsored by John Edwards, Economic Development. Statins Do Not Increase Risk of Death by Suicide * “It can be tricky to add new keys to a key ring, especially if you don’t have much of a fingernail. I have found a foolproof way to get the key started. Just use a staple remover. It works wonders!” -- T.R. in Indiana * If you find that you have small scratches in your wood furniture, try this old trick: Rub a walnut over dings to cover them up. Or find a matching brown crayon, rub it lightly into the scratch, and finish with a hair dryer held 10 inches away for about 10-15 seconds. It melts the wax of the crayon, and then you can buff it with a soft rag. Any excess is swept away and the color remains. * Got small kids? If your little one keeps rolling out of his bed, here’s a tip: Use a pool noodle tucked under the fitted sheet, lengthwise along the edge of the bed. It’s just enough of a bumper to send a sleeping child back to the center of the mattress. * “If you have many mismatched frames that you would like to use, you can try spray painting them all the same color. I had several that were different colors and a little bit beat up, but I wanted to use them in one big group. I painted them all glossy black, and they look great!” -- W.F. in Arkansas * Hanging shoe racks are a wonderful organizational tool, especially the ones made of plastic that have see-through pockets. You can use them on the back of your bathroom door for small towels and toiletries, or how about on the back of baby’s door as a diaper organizer? My favorite use is on the back of my garage door to hold all the cleaning bottles and solutions with other supplies. They are nice and high, and out of reach of little hands. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. *** This Sponsorship is available now. To see your name or business here, call Andrew Bagley at the Helena World. Come Down From Your Mountaintop Experiences Sandra Bagley RELIGION COLUMNIST Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. (Matthew 17:1) Laissez les bon temps rouler (pronounced layzay lay bon tom roolay) is a Cajun French phrase that translates to “Let the good times roll!” You will hear it over and over again at Mardi Gras celebrations around the world as it strongly expresses the “joie de vivre” (“joy of living”) spirit associated with festivities in places such as Rio de Janeiro, Venice, and New Orleans. Not limited to just one day, Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday,” refers to the carnival events that lead up to and end on the day before Ash Wednesday, when the traditional fasting of the Christian season of Lent begins. People travel around the world to attend these perpetual parties. While the world indulges, there is a different kind of celebration by various Christian communities on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday in honor of the transfiguration of Jesus. This is based on recount in the “synoptic” gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke when Peter, James, and John experienced a moment so wonderful with Jesus on the mountaintop they did not want to leave. Matthew shared it this way, “Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James, and his brother John, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Peter responded and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If You want, I will make three tabernacles here: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground and were terrified. And Jesus came to them and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” And raising their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone” (Matthew 17:1-8). Luke tells us that Jesus “took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning” (Luke 9:28- 29). To Peter, it looks like quiet time changed to a party for the ages. Upon seeing Jesus shining as the sun, Peter offered to pitch a few tents and keep the party going. But then, everything about Peter’s mountaintop experience changes. The Father speaks from the cloud (17:5), and Peter and the disciples fall to their faces (17:6). Reflecting on this mountaintop experience, Peter later described what he heard as the “Majestic Glory” (2 Peter 1:17). Since we are in the midst of Black History Month, let us also reflect on another mountaintop experience. When celebrating the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, this is one of the clips we play over and over again: “We’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn’t matter with me now because I’ve been to the mountaintop. And I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land!” Like Peter, we would rather be transfixed what we can see from the mountaintop than to focus on the work we need to do at the base. It is much easier to look up to the top of the mountain than look down into the valley. If we stay on the mountain with Martin and Jesus we do not have to deal with the violence in our streets, homes and schools. There we do not have to deal with the failure of our schools to teach students to read on grade level. We do not have to deal with our crumbling physical infrastructure of housing and streets. We do not have to deal with the criminalization of black boys and hypersexualization of black girls by those inside and outside of our communities. On the mountaintop, we do not have to deal with employment, wages, and wealth inequalities. We do not have to deal with neglect and abuse of children and the elderly. Sometimes we can have such an inspiring experience at church or in our quiet time with God that we want to pitch a tent and stay there – away from the reality and problems of daily life. Knowing that struggles are waiting for us in the valley encourages us to linger on the mountaintop and “let the good times roll!” Jesus came down from that mountain because we needed him. There was a waiting cross at the foot of that mountain, just out of sight. As he did with Peter, Jesus is calling us to a time of retreat and renewal, but only so that we can return to minister to the world, enabling others to experience God’s “joie de vivre.” Sandra Bagley
The Helena World Church WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 — 5A 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 Barton Baptist 9718 Hwy 85 Pastor: TBA S.S. 9:45 a.m.; W.S. 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wed. 7 p.m. 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 Dr. James L. Allen, Min. 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 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] Salem (Lakeview) MB Church Second Baptist Church (3rd and Baldwin) Dean Watts For more information on a sponsorship of this church directory Please contact Wally Burchett at: [email protected] or call 910-528-0244
6A — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Local The Helena World
Candace Williams CONTRIBUTING WRITER The community of Elaine celebrated its’ eldest senior, Mr. Joe Zigler, turning 101 on February 7. Community members lined up on Main Street and rode around to the Christopher Homes of Elaine to hold a parade for Mr. Joe. Mayor Lisa Hicks-Gilbert was present and delivered Mr. Joe a city proclamation, celebrating this milestone. “What I admire about him most, is that he still has a strong faith in God.”, stated Christopher Homes of Elaine resident Pastor James Lamb. “First thing he says in the morning when he wakes up is, “Thank you Lord for another day”.” His favorite foods are chicken and dumplings, salt meat, spaghetti, tomato gravy, and beans. His favorite pastimes include watching westerns and admiring women. “Mr. Joe is a very sweet man and so lovable.”, stated Terania Gilmore, the Service Coordinator of Christopher Homes of Elaine. “From the time that Mr. Joe Zigler has been on the property of Christopher Homes, he has inspired people.”, Carolyn King, Manager of Christopher Homes of Elaine, expressed. “It’s been a blessing to have him as a resident here. He came in very sickly, but since being here, he’s received the best care from his caregivers and he keeps us all going.” Mr. Zigler has eight children, seven sons and one daughter. His family, caregivers and Christopher Homes of Elaine community will hold a celebration for him and others with birthdays in the month on February 16. No ordinary Joe: Zigler celebrates 101st birthday Cunningham The Helena World Local WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 — 7A Recipe of the Week BON APPETIT La CHOF Cindy Davis HELENA WORLD FOOD EDITOR CRAB SLAMMERS WITH AIOLI SAUCE Ingredients 1/3 cup Hellman’s mayonnaise 3 Serrano chilies, seeded and minced 1 TBSP. spicy Brown Mustard Cilantro, chopped finely, to taste 4-5 Green Onions, thinly sliced 1 whole egg, plus 2 egg yolks 2 TBSP. fresh lemon juice Cracked black pepper, to taste 1 cup plain bread crumbs Panko bread crumbs 1 lb. Lump Crabmeat Mix well Hellman’s, mustard, eggs and lemon juice. Add the Serranos, Cilantro, green onions and plain bread Crumbs. Form into small cakes for appetizers or large cakes for an entrée. Dredge in Panko, pressing to adhere, being sure to coat all sides. You can fry these over medium heat or bake in a 375 oven, turning once until golden brown. These freeze well AIOLI SAUCE Ingredients: 1 cup Hellman’s mayonnaise 3 large cloves garlic, pressed 2 TBSP. fresh lemon juice 2 egg yolks Cayenne pepper, to taste In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well combined and smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. CRAB SLAMMERS WITH AIOLI SAUCE Obits Joseph Thomas Cunningham (better known as Joe Tom) passed away at his home on February 3, 2023. He was born January 1, 1939, to Thomas Gordon Cunningham and Ida Blaine Cunningham in Helena, Arkansas. Joe Tom deeply loved his family, his friends, his church, and his community. He served in the Arkansas Air National Guard where he made many lifelong friends as a young man. Prior to that, he attended the University of Arkansas where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Joe Tom loved the Lord and was a Charter Member and Elder of the Cleburne Avenue Presbyterian Church until its closure in 2018. At that time, he believed it was important to be a part of a Christian community and j o i n e d the Hele n a F i r s t U n i t e d Meth - o d i s t Church. He was nicknamed “the praying man” by the children of his family because he believed that you needed to acknowledge and invite the Lord into all your situations. He lived by that principle of prayer until the last days of his life. Joe Tom was a devoted hardworking businessman. He ran Cunningham, Inc., a propane, gasoline, diesel, and bulk oil business that serviced agricultural, industrial, and residential customers and owned and operated several Kwik Stop convenience stores in East Arkansas, with his father, T. Gordon Cunningham, brother, G. Ernest Cunningham, and son, Gordon A. Cunningham, for close to 60 years. He believed in good service and his motto was, “We are faster, friendlier, nicer and easier.” He enjoyed his business because he really cared about his customers and greeted them all with a smile, a handshake, and a coke or bottled water. Joe Tom was appointed to the Arkansas Liquified Petroleum Gas Board by Governor David Pryor in 1977 and served on that Board for 42 years under seven different Governors, Democrat and Republican, until his retirement in 2019. A graduate and former quarterback of Barton High School, Joe Tom was the Voice of the Barton Bears on KFFA radio station for almost 40 years giving tirelessly and enthusiastically of his time to bring the Barton Bears football games to Phillips County listeners. He was honored this fall at the halftime of a ballgame as the first recipient of the school’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Joe Tom served on the Board of Directors of Partners Bank (formerly known as Helena National Bank) for 39 years and was Chairman of the Board when he retired from the bank in 2021. He was a long-serving member of the Helena Harbor & Phillips County Economic Development Board. He also served on the DeSoto School Board and was President of that Board for two terms. Joe Tom enjoyed running, exercising, and playing tennis and snow skiing with his many tennis and ski buddies throughout most of his life. He loved people, had a great sense of humor, and a servant’s heart. His life was a life well lived. Joe Tom was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lena Cotten Cunningham. Those who are left to cherish his memory are his wife of 56 years, Marcia Johnson Cunningham; his two sons, Cotten (Gwin) and Gordon Cunningham; his precious granddaughters, Kendall, Blaine, and Liz Cunningham; his brother and wife, Ernest and Cathy Cunningham; sister-in-law, Karen Johnson Barrow (John); nephews, Cotter (Edie) and Baker (Ashley) Cunningham and Harley (June) and Russ (Darnella) Barrow; and great nieces and nephews: Hailey, Peyton, Truman, Will and Walker Cunningham and Cole, Reid (Vinessa), Peyton and Gage Barrow. A Celebration of Life is planned for Monday, February 20, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 502 Porter Street, Helena, Arkansas, with a reception to follow the worship service in Hendrix Hall of the church. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be sent to the Barton Athletic Department, 5995 Highway 49, Lexa, Arkansas, 72355, for the refurbishing of the Press Box at Frank McClellan Field where Joe Tom called many a game on the radio or the First United Methodist Church, 502 Porter Street, Helena, Arkansas, 72342. Joseph Thomas Cunningham
8A — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Local The Helena World
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 — 1B Land for Sale. Approximately ½ acre located on the bypass at the intersection of Highways 49 and 242 near the Brookwood neighborhood. Also willing to consider donating to a nonprofit organization. For more information, contact Ernie Sibley at 870-817-1280. ****** Local Classifieds
Local The Helena World 2B — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER DeSoto School senior Leah Carnathan was the female recipient of the Robby Sartin Award, which was presented at the District 1-AAA Basketball Tournament at Marvell Academy. Senior athletes are nominated by their school based on their academics, athletics, citizenship, and community service. Leah excels in basketball and scored her 1,000th point in December of 2022. She has been actively involved at DeSoto School over the years. She is the daughter of Chris and Angie Carnathan of Helena. Robert Glen “Robby” Sartin, Jr., of Tunica, was a teacher and coach in the MAIS District 1 school, Tunica Academy. He had State A Champions in boys’ basketball in 1984-85, football in 1991, and boys track in 1990. He had North A Division Champions in Jr. High football in 1984-93, North A Division Champions in Jr. High boys’ basketball in 1987-93, and he was named MPSA North All-Star Baseball Coach in 1984-88 and 1990- 93. After a lengthy battle with cancer, Sartin passed away in 1994 at the age of 39. The Robby Sartin award was started in his honor and memory. Sartin believed that athletes should be well-rounded with a balance of academics and service to their community. He encouraged his students and athletes to give their best effort in all areas. The Robby Sartin award criteria exemplifies this philosophy. Desoto’s Carnathan receives Robby Sartin Award Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER At the conclusion of the District 1-AAA Tournament held at Marvell Academy, five Lady Eagles (pictured at right) were selected to the District All-Tournament Team. Sidney Simpson, Mabry Hall, Ella Hindsley, and Harper James were named to the All-Tournament Team. Kayla Warren was named to the AllTournament team as the Tournament MVP. Sidney Simpson is the daughter of Ken and Keri Simpson of Clarendon. Mabry Hall is the daughter of Mark and Holly Hall of Marvell. Ella Hindsley is the daughter of Jim and Jessica Hindsley of Marvell. Harper James is the daughter of Greg and Karen James of Clarendon. Kayla Warren is the daughter of Chris and Tasha Warren of Lambrook. The Lady Eagles were the District 1-AAA Champions and advanced to the North AAA Regional Tournament. Also, at the conclusion of the District 1-AAA Tournament, three Lady T-Birds (pictured at right) were selected to the All- Tournament Team. Anslee Barnes, Leah Carnathan, and Carsyn Gore were selected for this honor based on their performance throughout the tournament. Anslee is the daughter of Alan and Brooke Barnes. Leah is the daughter of Chris and Angie Carnathan. Carsyn is the daughter of John and Janna Stoker. The Lady T-Birds were the District 1-AAA Runner-up and advanced to the North AAA Regional Tournament. Eight area players selected to District 1-AAA All-Tournament Team
The Helena World Local WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 — 3B Call Us At 501-500-0520 ext. 1 Call Us At 501-500-0520 ext. 1
4B — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Comics/Puzzles The Helena World
Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER The DeSoto T-Birds defeated North Sunflower Academy in the consolation games in the District 1-AAA tournament and finished in third place. The T-Birds advanced to the North AAA Regional Tournament. Although North Sunflower scored first, the T-Birds quickly took control of the game. At the end of the first quarter, the T-Birds led 12-8. They kept the lead and were unfazed by the efforts of the NSA Rebels. Jace Turner scored 16 points, followed by Grant Dunigan with 14 points. Ethan Phillips had 10 points and Elijah Cleary had 8 points. Dunigan and Phillips were named to the All-Tournament team based on their performance throughout the tournament. Terri Ann Hall CONTRIBUTING WRITER At the conclusion of the District 1-AAA Tournament, two T-Birds were selected to the District AllTournament Team. Grant Dunigan and Ethan Phillips were selected for this honor based on their performance during the tournament. Grant is the son of Joey and Holly Dunigan of Helena. Ethan is the son of Eddie and Laura Phillips of Helena. The T-Birds placed third in the tournament and advanced to the North AAA Regional Tournament. The Helena World Local WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 815 2023 — 5B T-Birds advance to North 3A Regional Tournament Two Desoto players named to District AllTournament Team Helena Regional Medical Center Come Down From The Helena Regional Medical Center recently held a contest to see which department was the sweetest department at HRMC. The winners were as follows. Third Place --- Food Services with a cinnamon roll decked with delicious pink icing Second Place --- Laboratory with Banana Pudding (sweetest 1 --- yellow pan with spoon above) First Place --- Medical Records (HIM) with Red Velvet Cake (sweetest 1 --- lower right corner above) The third attachment (Sweetest 7) shows the winners l-r Food Services, Laboratory and Medical Records. Sweetest 6 shows all 11 entries in the competition today with a total of 57 votes cast for the sweet treats.
6B — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2923 Local The Helena World HWH Clears Trees In the aftermath of the recent ice storm, the City of HelenaWest Helena had several crews out clearing trees, cut - ting limbs, and performing storm debris removal. Contributed Photos
The Helena World Legals WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 — 7B Legal ad paid for by Phillips County at a cost of $ 232.65
8B — WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023 Local The Helena World