THE ARKANSAS LEADER

JACKSONVILLE BULK WASTE PICK-UP SERVICE NOW WEEKLY

Jacksonville’s monthly bulk-waste pickup is canceled. It will be replaced with weekly service by appointment only.

All areas will be picked up on Wednesday. Residents must call 501-982-6071 to request a pick up. Bulk waste includes old appliances and unwanted furniture, for example. Also, the city has free mulch available at 1300 Marshall Road, which is open every day.

BEEBE CLEANUP DAYS BEGIN MONDAY THROUGH APRIL 24

Beebe residents may bring unwanted items to the city shop on Idaho Street from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, through April 24 as part of the city’s annual cleanup event.

Call 501-882-9379 for more information.

CABOT LIONS SEEK BOOK DONATIONS FOR APRIL 30 SALE

Cabot Lions Club will hold its annual book sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, April 30 at Centennial Bank of Cabot, 2171 W. Main St. Books will sell for $1 each.

The club is seeking book donations in a variety of subjects, including children’s and Christian books. Textbooks and encyclopedias are not accepted. Books may be dropped off at all Cabot First Security branches until Thursday, April 29.

Proceeds from the sale will be used to purchase eyeglasses for children and adults and support the club’s local community programs.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF WARD PLANS WEEKEND REVIVAL

First Baptist Church of Ward, 208 S. Scott St., will hold a weekend revival on April 17th and 18th.

Next Saturday’s services begins at 7 p.m. and Sunday’s events begin at 11 a.m. and again at 6 p.m.

David “Doc” Spurlin, evangelist, psychologist and a ventriloquist will speak on Sunday. For more information, call 501-843-5648.

CABOT KIWANIS CLUB HOLDS A PIZZA FUNDRAISER

Cabot Kiwanis Club will host a Pizza Parade fundraiser at 5 p.m. Monday, April 19 at Larry’s Pizza on South Second Street. Pizza will be served by Cabot High’s Key Club members. For information, call 501-941-4905.

BEEBE BEGINS ANNUAL FIRE HYDRANT TESTING MONDAY

Beebe will begin testing fire hydrants on Monday to ensure they are working properly. The testing is routine and can result in low water pressure and brown water. The testing will continue for several weeks.

SENATORS WILL SPEAK AT LONOKE DINNERS

Sen. Mark Pryor will speak at the Lonoke Chamber of Commerce banquet at 6 p.m. Friday at the Lonoke Community Center. For tickets, call 676-4399.

Sen. Blanche Lambert-Lincoln will be the guest speaker at the Lonoke County Democratic Central Committee’s banquet at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Lonoke Primary School in Lonoke.

The committee invites state and local candidates to join the group for dinner. Tickets are $20 per person or $260 for a table for eight.

To order tickets or a table, call chairperson Jaunita Horn, 501-605-3776; secretary-treasurer Pat Main, 501-676-7278, or Dawn Porterfield, 501-676-3020.

THAI/LAOS NEW YEAR'S SONGKRAN CELEBRATE SUNDAY

A celebration of the Thai and Laotian New Year will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, April 18 at the Wat Jacksonville VanaRam temple near Furlow. The festival called Songkran signifies spring cleaning and the washing away of sin. Three monks from Thailand will be on hand giving sermons. Food offerings will be given to the monks as alms. There will be the selling of Thai/Laotian food for donations, a symbolic water festival and music. The temple is located at 1410 Highway 294 near Furlow about 10 minutes away from Jacksonville. It is near Schilling’s Christmas Tree Farm.

NORTH METRO FUNDRAISER FEATURES JEWELRY AND PURSES

North Metro Medical Center’s Guys and Dolls Relay for Life team is planning a jewelry and purse sale from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday in the hospital’s cafeteria. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the American Cancer Society.

Jacksonville’s Relay for Life will be held from 6 p.m. Friday, April 23 to 6 a.m. Saturday, April 24 at Jacksonville High’s football field.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THRIFT SHOP open to the public. MWF, 10 am to 2 pm, first Saturday monthly. Great bargains. All revenues used to support mission. Volunteers and donations welcome. Jacksonville Care Channel, 201 Elm, 982-4647.

RUMMAGE SALE: Inside Landmark Baptist Church, 1701 General Samuels Road, Jacksonville (next to AR Federal Credit Union). Sat., 4/17, 7 am-1 pm. Toys, clothes, furniture & lots more. Great bargains!

GUITARIST SEEKING drummer & bassist. Rock & roll. (501) 680-1617 or (501) 838-5441, leave msg.

Jacksonville WILDHOGS need your used youth football helmets & shoulder pads. (501) 690-2395 to donate.


SERVICES

In-home daycare, 40 years experience. References available. Now accepting infants to 4 years. Conveniently located in Jacksonville off Graham Rd. (501) 985-3678.

Childcare in my home, meals & snacks provided, lots of TLC. Located in Jacksonville area. $85/week. Call Mrs. Melissa, (501) 580-8100.

ODDS & Ends Handyman Services, free estimates, small job specialist, fencing of all types. (501) 744-1283.

Brown's Lawncare. Reasonable rates. Commercial & residential service. Senior citizen & military discounts available. Includes mowing, weed eating, blowing & more. Free estimates. (501) 658-8572.

Full Service Landscaping Maintenance. Serving LRAFB, local area for 5 years. In the "GREEN" business for over 26 years. Free estimates. Better quality, better price. Max Worx, Inc. (501) 288-9638 or (501) 454-4562.


YARD SALES

NEIGHBORHOOD YARD SALE. Many homes & multiple families at each. Sat., 4/17, 7 am (no early birds please). Mt. Carmel Rd. to 1st road past water tower - Cedar Hills Rd. Sales on Cedar Hills, Evergreen Rd., & Pinetree Rd.

YARD SALE, Sat., 4/17, 8-5 pm, 211 James Price Rd., 1 1/2 mi. N. of Beebe, Hwy. 31. Yard equip., odds & ends, doll collection.

HUGE NEIGHBORHOOD yard sale, 4/16, 4 pm, 4/17, 6 am, 21 Shiloh, Cabot.

MULTI-FAMILY YARD sale, Sat., 4/17, 33 Azeala Dr., Bloomingridge Subdv. Furn., houseware, clothes & toys. 7 am-1 pm.

MOVING SALE, 7 am-2 pm, 4/16 & 17, 21 White Oak Dr., Cabot. Lots of furn., clothing, toys & much more.

YARD SALE, Sat., 4/17, 7 am, 1017 Richard St. Lots of stuff. Cancel if rain.

BEEBE GARAGE Sale, 404 Galina St., Beebe, 4/16 & 17. Furn., clothes, gun cabinets, 231-1373. Rain reschedules.

YARD SALE, Fri. & Sat., 4/16 & 17, clothes, baby items, seasonal & houseware. 48 Winners Cir. (off Kerr Station Rd.)

3-FAMILY Yard sale, riding mower, antiques & vintage items, lots more. Don't miss this one! 4/16, 7 am-5 pm, 220 Adams, Lonoke.

YARD SALE, Thurs. & Fri., 4/15 & 16, 7 am, 151 Hwy. 321, Beebe. Multi-family, lots of unusual things.

GARAGE SALE, 102 Jessica, Sherwood, Sat. 4/17, 7-noon.

YARD SALE, Sat., 4/17, 8-4, 901 Sweetwater, Ward. Antiques, collectibles, gift basket, supplies, clothes & more.

YARD SALE, Sat., 4/17, Remnant Church, 106 Pin Oak, across from Eastside Elem., Cabot. 7 am-?


HELP WANTED

Maintenance Coordinator, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, drywall, painters & all trades needed for large mobile home park. Compensation negotiable. Call (501) 835-3450 or email hillsidebayou@cebridge.net or wlaslo1@tampabay.rr.com

Need a reliable elderly lady to live in, to do light housework & cooking. Also, some extra time off. (501) 985-3665.

Now Taking Applications for Cooks and Servers at Petro Iron Skillet in Galloway. Apply now by phone or web, 1-800-6-PETRO-Job, 1-888-673-8765 Hiring or www.MYPETROJOB.com.

Cabot Job Opportunity, Health Care Office, will train, starting $8 per hr., 30 to 35 hrs. per wk., 4 days, must have strong multitasking skills. Send resume to Cabot Job Opportunity, 108 South Fourth Street, #207, Cabot, 72023.

Registered Dental Hygienist & Assistant. Experience required. Great attitude/team player a must. Fax resume to (501) 941-3572 or call (501) 843-5808, Cabot.

LAB/HISTO TECH for full-time position in Cabot. E-mail resume to: nurse_arskincancer@comcast.net or fax to (501) 941-3105.

FULL-TIME MEDICAL Assistant/Nurse for busy dermatology clinic in Cabot. E-mail resume to: nurse_arskincancer@comcast.net or fax to (501) 941-3105.

HELP WANTED: Need someone to install 3 rooms of carpet. (501) 676-9397.

Part-time Massage Therapist. Must be able to work three Saturdays a month. Approximately 20 hours a week. Please contact Georgetta at (501) 941-2321.

LAWN & Landscape Contractor looking for someone to run a crew. Must have a valid driver's license and dependable full-size truck. Experience preferred, but not mandatory. Starting at $500 per week, depending on experience. (501) 563-0840.

PRODUCTION POSITIONS: 1ST and 2nd shift in Jacksonville! Growing company with benefits! Clean background and drug test required. Apply Monday - Tuesday 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. at EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS, 11121 N. Rodney Parham, Suite 39 B, Little Rock. GET READY TO WORK!

Drivers: Co. Flatbed, 26% to start. Paid vacation & benefits available. CDL-A + 1 yr. exp. PI & I Motor Express, Pat, 800-321-2733.

Experienced newspaper carrier wanted for great route in the Cabot area. Good pay and only two days a week. Must have valid AR drivers license and dependable transportation. No phone calls please. Apply in person at 404 Graham Road in Jacksonville Monday thru Friday 9 am til 4 pm.


LOST & FOUND

LOST: CABOT/WARD area, female tabby cat, grey & white striped, spayed, declawed, 15 yr. family pet. (501) 843-7663.

FOUND: IN Northlake area, small brown dog, male, has collar w/tag. Call to identify. 835-7309.

FOUND: BOSTON Terrier, Hwy. 161, Jax. 983-4035.

REWARD $200. Missing Shih Tzu, Tasha, grayish/white, female, 16 yrs. old, from Hwy. 89 S. & Hwy. 236. (501) 442-6476.

FOUND: BLACK & tan small Miniature Pinscher/Beagle. 542-4293.

LOST: CHOCOLATE Lab., 4 yrs. old, neutered male, last seen in Toneyville area, Jax., 4/1. Slightly overweight & small spots of white on paws & chin, wearing camo. collar, answers to "Buddy". (501) 541-5662 or (501) 838-0914.


ANIMALS, & PETS & SUPPLIES

FREE white & black Jack Russell Terrier, 2 yr. old male, spoiled, smart, lovable, active dog. (501) 258-8239.

FREE 8 wk. old puppy, mixed, male. (678) 315-9880.

FREE BULL Terrier to good home, 6 year old male, AKC registered, fixed. (501) 626-7366.

RUSSIAN BLUE male cat, free to good country home, 1 yr. old, very loving. 941-3839.

2 TAME doves & 1 baby dove. (501) 563-8988.

FREE TO good home, 11 mo. old male Basset Hound & 5 mo. old spayed Beagle mix. Would like both to stay together. 843-3099, Brandy.

MALE PYGMY goats, $40 ea. (501) 843-1026.

FREE BARN cats, good mousers. 288-2603.

FREE BABY Guinea pigs. 985-2424.

DOG PEN, 10'x12' w/locking gate, chain link, $50. (501) 882-2996.

FEMALE YELLOW Lab. mix, 1 yr. old, not spayed, free to good home, (916) 333-9951, Jax, Sabrina.

FREE TO good home, 1 yr. old female Basset Hound, needs to be outside, great w/children. (501) 398-2329.

FREE KITTENS to good home. 366-1940.

APPALOOSA, REG. 4 yr. old gelding, line back dunn, started & has been turned out, gentle, $500. (501) 837-5798.

WHITE MALE cat, approx. 1 yr. old, gorgeous blue eyes. Free to good home only. (501) 837-8937.

WEIMARANER PUPPIES for sale. AKC Registered. Call 837-8937.

FREE TO good home, gray & black striped female cat, spayed, front declawed. (501) 593-2251, leave msg.

FREE TO good home, male Cocker Spaniel, approx. 2 yrs. old, all shots up to date. (254) 458-4576, Jax.

FREE GOLDEN Retriever mix puppies to good home. (501) 772-4435.

4 GUINEA PIGS, $30 ea. 541-8111.

MOVING, NEED home for male 6 mo. old Pug. Likes outdoors & inside, paper trained. Serious inquiries only. (501) 605-1788.

10 GALLON aquarium & metal stand, complete w/filter system, rocks, decor, gravel vacuum & fish food, $40. (501) 982-1077.

Saanen, sable dairy goats, 1 yr. old & 3 yrs. old, both gentle. $100 ea. (501) 882-3109, Beebe.

Tame Timneh African Grey Parrot, friendly, complete set up, $1,000. (501) 286-1216.


VEHICLES & ACCESSORIES

(4)-20" MILANNI Blizzard chrome rims & tires, bolt pattern 5/100 & 5/4.25, great cond., off of a Chrysler Sebring, only used 4 mos., $800 obo. 690-0387.

CHEVY CAPRICE, 1996, all pwr., air, leather, Corvette eng., good cond., $3,000 cash. (501) 676-5851.

2005 Silver GMC Envoy SLT, 75,000 mi., good condition, woodgrain, sunroof, P/W & pwr. leather heated seats, running boards, 6-disc changer, on-star & XM radio capable, $12,000 obo. (501) 837-4391.

1995 TOYOTA Camry SE, great looking car, sunroof, great tires, needs front head, never wrecked, $800 obo. (501) 882-2142.

MICHELIN PILOT tires, P235/65/R18, good for 20,25,000 mi., 3 for $40 ea. 982-3475.

2000 FORD F-150 short wide bed, V-6, 5-spd., exc. cond., very clean, new tires, cold air, towing, pkg., P/S, P/B, white, black bed cover, $4,750 obo. 982-1052.

2009 Saturn Vue, silver, great looking SUV! Pwr. driver's deat, OnStar, bluetooth & satellite Radio. (501) 217-2895, Neil.

2006 Dodge Ram 4x4, Quad Cab, HEMI! $16,288. (501) 217-2895.

2007 Honda CRV, moonroof, leather, heated seats, excellent condition, $17,988 (501) 217-2895, Neil.

2009 Toyota Sienna, 8-Pass., PW/L, cruise, sharp! $20,998, (501) 217-2895, Neil.

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT pkg.,V8, dark blue, crew cab w/low miles. $24,988 (501) 268-5333, Bill.

2009 Infiniti G37, V6, true luxury, loaded w/all the options! $28,788, (501) 268-5333, Bill.

2009 Mercedes C230, white, V6, leather, sunroof, Smart Key, CD/MP3/bluetooth capable, absolutely loaded! $29,988. (501) 268-5333, Bill.

NEW, SLIGHTLY used set of tires, Continental P215/60/R16, MT594TY (Nissan Rims), $100 obo. (501) 442-6254 or (501) 442-6264.

2007 Toyota Tundra, 5.7 V8, 4WD, dbl. cab/4dr., slate metallic, 6-disc cd, tinted windows, K&N air filter, Flowmaster exhaust. Scratch & dent free, like new! (501) 786-0243.

2002 MAZDA Millenium 4-Dr., loaded, sunroof, CD, leather, 147,000 miles, $3,200 cash. 941-8816.

2002 SILVER Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4, new Michelin tires, A/C, P/W, P/S, 1 owner, excellent condition, $6,000. (501) 882-2836 or (501) 454-3624.

1999 DODGE Intrepid, V6, clean inside & out, $1,675. 676-5838.

'98 GRAND AM GT, runs great, needs a little body work, $2,000 obo. (501) 541-3602, David, after 6:30.

1997 GMC Safari work van, motor good, but transmission bad, $500 neg. Text/call (501) 351-4968, Mitchel.

2009 Chevrolet HHR, black, loaded w/ only 15k miles! Must see to believe at only $14,988. (501) 517-2895, Neil.

2007 Chevrolet Tahoe LT, only 40,000 miles, PW/L, cruise, super low miles, $24,998. (501) 268-5333.

1998 JEEP Cherokee, 6-cyl., 4x4, auto., 4-Dr., 201,000 miles, $1,800 cash. 843-4501.

1954 PLYMOUTH, 2-Dr., new paint, upholstery & tires. Original. $6,800. (501) 843-8174.

1993 MAZDA Miata 5-spd., 100,000 miles, excellent condition, red. (501) 796-3901 or (501) 580-9950.

2001 CHEVY Cavalier, 4-Dr., auto., 183,000 miles, runs great, $2,250 firm. (501) 796-3901 or (501) 580-9950.

1997 FORD F150 Conversion Van & 300 Rascal scooter w/automatic lift, 133,000 miles. $5,900 obo.; Front & back bumper for 1998 Ford F-150, good cond., $40 for both. (501) 259-5498.

TOOL BOX for full-size truck, $50; Car towing plate for small vehicles, $100. (501) 982-9370 or (501) 590-7193.

1982 DATSUN king cab truck w/camper, runs, great body, $650. 454-8092.

BRAHMA CAMPER shell, small truck, fiberglass, $125; painted to your color, $225. (501) 941-4870.

2002 HONDA Odyssey, blue, 72,000 mi., very good cond., $7,500, with electric wheelchair lift, $8,400. 843-2858, Cabot.

2004 SATURN Vue, 1 owner, white, 4-Door hatchback, tan fabric interior, 150,000 hwy. mi., commuter car to LR daily, great mechanical cond., reg. maintenance, cloth int., fact. CD/Stereo, privacy glass. straight body, dependable car, $4,500 obo. (501) 744-8516, Cabot.

2001 Mazda 626, some engine work required, $1,500 obo. (501) 593-8868 or (501) 207-3970.

1999 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Club Cab. Nice looking truck, very good condition, $3,750. (501) 650-3612.

1998 DODGE Durango, runs well, good condition, $2,800. (501) 676-1722, Bryan.

2001 GMC Stepside Pickup, yellow chrome wheels, V8, auto., P/S, A/C, stereo, $7,250. 315-1357.

2002 CHRYSLER Sebring LX, 4-Door, extra clean, 4-cyl., auto., P/S, A/C, stereo, $3,950. (501) 315-1357.

EXCELLENT RESTORATION project, 1952 Chevy 1/2 ton truck, $2,000. (501) 605-7200 or (501) 605-8670.

12 BOLT Chev. rear end out of '76 GMC Pickup, $150. (501) 985-2726.

2003 CHEVY S10 truck, less than 39,000 miles, ext. cab, bedliner, air, 5-spd. trans., bronze w/gray int., excellent condition, $7,500 obo. (501) 758-6888 or 517-0876.

1996 CADILLAC Sedan DeVille, white, 118,000 miles, good condition, sell or trade for crew cab truck of equal value. (501) 605-2851.

1986 SILVERADO 10, 2WD, LWB, black, PW/PL, 350, auto., runs & looks good, $3,200 obo. (870) 530-2358, Jax.

'05 BUICK Rendezvous, loaded, exceptionally clean, 114,000 miles, $6,500. (501) 882-2996.

2009 TOYOTA Tacoma Extra Cab, 8,000 mi., 4-cyl., auto. trans., SR5 pkg., $21,400. 241-6802.

2001 CADILLAC Deville DHS, 76,000 miles, dk. blue ext., dk. blue leather int., heated seats, $5,250 obo. (501) 843-8886 or (501) 743-5910.

2000 CHEVY Cavalier, 2-Dr., block cracked, good for parts, no body damage. (501) 743-5768, after 6.

Brand new 2010 Toyota Camry SE moonroof, alloy wheels, tinted glass, power seat, white, only 4,200 miles $21,500 firm. Flawless, must see! (501) 912-8804.

1993 CHEVY Blazer 4x4, 4.3L, 6-cyl., needs fuel pump, $600 obo. (501) 259-6305.

1959 F-100 Ford Pickup, 292 V8, std. trans., runs great, needs paint, not rusted out, $2,500. (501) 288-4591, Beebe.

ENGINE STAND, rotates 360 degrees, $50. (501) 288-4591, Beebe.

2007 FORD Fusion, black w/only 28,000 mi. What a deal for only $13,998. (501) 831-3635, Dan.

2008 VOLVO S40, pwr. everything, silver, will go fast at only $15,688. (501) 472-4728, Jerry.

2007 DODGE Journey SXT, silver, super clean, roomy & sporty at the same time! $15,998. (501) 427-4728, Jerry.

2007 JEEP Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, V6, green, hard top. A great deal for only $19,988. (501) 268-5333, Bill.

CHEVY 350 block, 4-bolt main, no heads, block only w/some inner parts, incl. crank shaft, $150. (501) 288-1920, Cabot.

CHRYSLER LHS, 1997, extra nice, loaded, good tires & motor, A/C, $2,750. (501) 454-2124 or (501) 882-7590, Beebe.

1993 VOLVO 240, 150,000 miles, P/W, heated seats, good A/C, $4,000 or trade for 4-wheeler or golf cart. (501) 593-3770 btwn. 4 pm & 8 pm.

2001 LINCOLN Continental, loaded w/multi-CD, Presidential Series w/1/2 vinyl top, black w/gray leather int., runs exc., looks good, $3,000. (501) 606-9163.

2002 CHEVROLET Avalanche Z-71 4x4, pwr. everything, leather, good condition, $10,500. (501) 743-5885.

2000 TOYOTA Echo, eng. control module out, has other good parts, $800 obo. (501) 628-7664.

2003 DODGE Intrepid, 147,000 miles, gray, 4-door, CD player, all pwr., $2,750. (501) 438-2005.

2000 CHEVY Cavalier 2-Dr., not running, good for parts, $800 obo. (501) 743-5768.

2009 NISSAN Quest 5 Mini-van, 6-cyl., 6,400 mi., exc. cond., $24,000. (501) 843-4330.

1995 Bioc Riviera, supercharged 3.8 V6, loaded, leather, sunroof, new tires, clean, dependable, every option, new trans., $2,800. (870) 550-6159.


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2005 BASS Tracker Pro-Crappie, Model 175, 50 hp. motor w/trailer, less than 25 hrs., w/extras. (501) 580-8305.

(2) 2006 250cc Yamaha Virago motorcycles w/windshields, black, good cond., each has less than 900 miles. Includes 4 helmets & women's leather jacket. Must sell together, $4,500. (501) 259-8822.

1997 CAJUN Espirit 1700 17' fish-n-ski boat, 1996 115 hp. Johnson motor, good condition, $4,000. (501) 882-6823.

1995 32' 5th wheel camper, $1,200 obo. (501) 326-1227.

CAMPER, COLEMAN pop-up 1993 Newport, $1,000. (501) 230-5286.

Mariner 8 hp. motor, 1991, starts easily & runs great, made by Mercury, $800. (501) 843-5098.

2007 SUZUKI GSXR 1000 w/only 6,650 mi., excellent condition, $6,500. 615-5201.

14' FLAT bottom boat & trailer, 18" sides, electric start, 15 hp. Evinrude motor, 2 seats, trolling motor & depth finder, $1,700. 843-2789.

CENTURY 1985 19' Bowrider 35 Chevy wishbone trailer, $3,500 or trade for Tahoe or Suburban. 843-6900 or 831-9785.

2000 KOUNTRY Star by Newmar, 34" w/2 slides, $15,000. (501) 982-8707 or (501) 231-6121.

2000 GTI 3-pass. Sea-doo, 2 cyl., 2 stroke, 718 cc., Kelly Blue Book, $2,295, 1999 GSX Ltd. Sea-doo, 2-pass., 2 cyl., 2 stroke, 951 cc, KBB $2,705, 1999 orig. Sea-doo dual trailer, $1,000 value, $300. $5,000 obo. for all. 944-5346.

2007 HARLEY Davidson Sportster 883, silver, custom, garage kept, 1 owner, adult rider, 4,600 mile, some riding equip. incl., exc. cond., $6,500 firm. (501) 554-4953.

2003 PALOMINO fiberglass camper, 21', exc. cond., $6,000. (501) 231-8134.

22' RV Awning, ANE8500, like new, complete, $500 obo. 628-6423.

2003 HONDA Ruckus, 50 cc, 1345 miles, near new, $1,295. (501) 882-2871.

14' BOAT & Trailer w/6 hp. Yamaha motor, low hrs. on motor, $750. (501) 259-4786 btwn. 7 & 9 pm.

1997 ASTRO bass boat, fiberglass, 75 hp., trolling motor, trailer, fish finder, $5,000. (501) 843-4381.

1994 COACHMAN 30' camper, nice, $1,900. (501) 388-0542, Stephen.

GO KART, $250. (501) 843-0397 or (501) 944-7219.

3 DIRT bikes, (501) 743-5024, Cabot.

24' 2003 Ameri-Lite camper w/extend side queen bed, microwave, $6,000. (501) 843-6443.

2000 KOUNTRY Star by Newmar, 34', 5th wheel, 2 slides. 982-8707 or 231-6121.


LAWN & FARM EQUIPMENT

MATURE ROSE bushes, approx. 3' tall, red & pink, you dig up, $10 ea., (501) 920-5462.

DOZER, 2003 Cat D4GXL, Sweeps, 1400 hrs., good machine, $36,500. (501) 940-7580.

SEARS TILLER, front tine, runs good, $100; Troybilt tiller, 8 hp., rear tine, $600. 843-2789, Gene.

2007 JOHN Deere riding mower, L100, 17 hp., 42" cut, 5-speed, runs & cuts well, but needs a hood, $595. (501) 843-5376.

RIDING LAWNMOWER, 42" cut, $350. (501) 983-1445.

1986 INTERNATIONAL 19 hp. diesel tractor, canopy, 4' bush hog, finish mower blade & middle buster, $5,400 for all or will sell separately. 961-1111 or 837-0142.

Poulan 19 hp., 42" cut riding mower, used 2 mowing seasons, owner had stroke, must sell, $450 obo. 843-7989.

WANT TO buy good used square hay baler. (501) 827-0933, Beebe.

WEED EATER push mower, 20" cut, 4.5 hp., runs good, $50. (501) 288-4591.

BANANA TREES, $5-10. (870) 552-7774, Carlisle area.

MURRAY RIDING lawnmower, runs, $60. (501) 259-5498.

39" John Deere deck, 46" Murray, 42" Craftsman, $100 ea. (501) 983-1445.


MISCELLANEOUS

BASEBALL BAT, Easton Alloy Maxlite Reflex Extended C-405-MDL-DRX5E, maximum barrel, minimum weight, 2 3/4"x32", 27 oz., $25; Easton Ultra Light, 2 1/2"x31", 24 oz., Pro Baseball, $10. 843-6962

HARO 20" trick bicycle, retails $480, asking $200 obo. (501) 882-2142.

5 NINTENDO DS games in orig. case, will fit DSi, $15 ea. or $80 for all. (501) 843-3240.

WEDDING RING set, 1.5 ct., retail $3,800, asking $2,500. (501) 843-3240.

OASIS ESB upright tanning system, pd. $3,500; sell for $2,500. (501) 843-3240.

DRAIN PIPE, cement, 4' long, 15" diameter, 3" thick. Interlocking, $30 ea. 982-1220.

STORM DOOR, white, 36", glass top, metal bottom, $20. (870) 552-3626.

GAS GRILL w/cover & tank, used 5 times, $165. (501) 628-7853.

PAIR OF brown summer sandals w/wedge; pr. of black flats. Both size 8 & brand new. 983-4579.

WESLO G-30 Treadmill (space saver type), excellent condition, rarely used. Pd. $200, sell for $100. (501) 982-1077.

Men's motorcycle leathers: Jacket & chaps, sz. XL, both for $125; (501) 920-5462.

Motorcycle helmet, black, large, like new, worn very little, skid lid type DOT approved, $30. (501) 920-5462.

Woman's Motorcycle leathers: Jacket, sz. M; Chaps w/fringe sz. L; Vest, sz. L all for $125, (501) 920-5462.

Free 9' fiberglass satellite antenna for dog house or child's play toy. (501) 843-5098.

COMPUTER DESK, filing cabinet, bookcase, 2 side tables, Minolta XP700 camera, all attachments & programs, miscellaneous items. (501) 628-2795.

WINDCHASER PORTABLE A/C unit, works great, $150; Everlast punching bag w/gloves, $50. 985-6642.

2 EVENING dresses w/jackets & hand bag, size 8, only worn once, from Great Britain, $50 ea. 982-9598.

PROM DRESS, floor length, sz. 19/20, strapless, 2 shades of blue, corset style back, rhinestone decor on front, very pretty, $125. 843-6962.

FREE-STANDING ELECTRIC fireplace, heats very well, fake logs, lights up like real, 41"x50", 10 yr. warranty, used 6 mos., $300. (501) 563-6808, Lonoke.

SOLEUS-AIR PORTABLE A/C, dehumidifier, heather & fan, utilizes heat pump technology, used 1/2 of last yr., $350. (501) 951-3951.

WOMEN'S BLACK leather jacket, sz. med., zip front, $50; women's formal, spaghetti strap, lavender, empire waist, matching wrap, size 4, $35. 743-5760 after 3.

SINGER SEWING machine in floor cabinet, $40. 982-8407.

NEW HOME sewing machine in floor cabinet, $25. 982-8407.

CRAFTSMAN AIR compressor, 5 hp., 220v, 2-cyl. will deliver locally, $150. (501) 796-3901.

BURLAP FABRIC, great for garden cover, large bundle, $15. (501) 843-6233, Cabot.

TONY LITTLE'S Gazelle Sprint Master, manuals, CDs, used very little, $125. (501) 743-0133.

GIRL'S Sz. 4T-10 clothing & shoes, all seasons, some NWT, barely worn & cheap! Nothing over $10. (501) 983-1140, LRAFB.

BRAND NEW, never opened, Panasonic ventilation fan, quiet whisper, 50CFM, $130. (501) 983-1140, LRAFB.

GIRL'S CLOTHES, spring/summer, lot of 72 pieces, sz. medium 7/8, good condition, $30. (501) 259-8202, Ward.

PRO MOBILE electric wheelchair, like new, leather & upholstery, tilts, leg lifts, reclines & raises, $450 obo. 843-7989.

POWER CHAIR, Pride Jet 3 Ultra & reg. wheelchair, 9000 series. (501) 676-0750, leave msg.

COACH PURSE, authentic, Signature C Jacquard style, tan & brown, $150 obo. 940-1081.

2 TWIN & 1 king-size 2" mattress toppers, like new, $25 & $50. (501) 425-8291.

ANTIQUE TRUNKS, all sizes & shapes, very old, $30-$75. (501) 837-5798.

THE PETTY racing family, 3 generations #42, #43 & #44 Hot Wheels collection, immaculate cond., $60. (501) 882-2142.

WILL TRADE quart jars for pint jars, must be in good condition. (501) 838-2018.

SIZE 11 1/2 black Under Armour cleats (Cabot football shoes), used 2 days, pd. $125, sell for $50; sz. 11 Nike basketball shoes (Cabot basketball shoes), red & white, fairly new, $50. 941-0774.

LARGE DYNAGLO kerosene electric light heater, used 1 mo., $75 obo. 941-0774.

QUILTING MAGAZINES, 68 for $30; Country Women, 50 for $25; Quick Cooking, 17 for $10; Taste of Home, 49 for $25; Good Old Days 8 & Country 9, both for $10. 920-5462.

ELEC. COOK stove, $50; double sink, $25; butane hot water heater, $125; wood & glass gun case, $40; kitchen storage cabinet, $75; old cast iron claw foot bath tub, $150. (501) 843-8369.

4 MADISON 200W 32 ohm bass speakers, $250 obo. (501) 882-2142.

OHAUS TRIPLE-BEAM scales w/extra weights, $85. 982-6273.

UTILITY TRAILER 4x8 tilt, $250; table saw, $75. 983-1445.

AB Lounger II & exercise bike, $40 ea. 563-3494.

2 SMALL propane tanks, $10 ea. 835-3302.

APPROX. 10 concrete block, free, you pick up. (501) 988-0062.


FURNITURE & APPLIANCES

BEAUTIFUL WHITE crib, good for boy or girl, used for 2 babies, pd. $400, asking $80 obo., no mattress. 259-2821.

FREE ENTERTAINMENT center, 53"x45", 27" TV opening, glass doors. (501) 843-7295.

27" RCA color console TV, beautiful, excellent condition, cable ready, $175 obo. (501) 843-7897.

REFRIGERATOR, 25 cu. ft. GE side-by-side, ice/water beverage center door, almond, $300 cash, firm. 519-1079.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, $40. (501) 835-7354.

Sofa, sage green pillow back w/4 matching pillows. Love seat sleepe, country blue, $100 each obo. 843-8733.

WHIRLPOOL WASHER, 6 cycle, & Dryer, 3 cycle, white, only 5 yrs. old, great working cond., $350 obo. (501) 941-8595.

RUNNING MAY TAG dryer, needs work, $25. (501) 849-2726.

GE SIDE-BY-SIDE refrigerator, $250; table & 4 chairs, metal frames, very sturdy, $150. (501) 983-1445.

KENMORE UPRIGHT 16' freezer, $175. 985-2244.

21.7 cu. ft. Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator/freezer, ice maker in door, frost free, almond colored, $150. 982-3084, Larsen.

STOVE, NICE white Frigidaire range, $100 obo. 843-3099, Brandy.

WANTED: WASHER/DRYER, good condition, reasonable price. (985) 951-9127.

LIKE NEW Ashley furniture, chest, $300; dining table & 4 chairs, $450; love seat, $300; twin brass bed w/box springs & mattress, $135. (501) 743-6900.

PORTABLE DISHWASHER, very good condition, $100 firm. Cash only. (501) 676-1743.

CHERRY HIGH boy chest, $400; Bombay dressing table, $225; Cherry double bed, $150. Exc. cond., see to appreciate. 843-7229, Cabot, after 5 pm.

QUEEN ANNE wing back chair, burgundy, used 6 mos., $100. 982-7207.

COUCH, LOVE seat, coffee table, $300; King-size mattress, box springs & frame, $50; baby bed, no mattress, $30, 772-2539 or 985-2244.

QUEEN HEAD board w/mirror, footboard & frame, $75; full-size headboard & frame, $50. 772-2539 or 985-2244.

MAYTAG ELECTRIC dryer, $100. 982-8407.

PAIR OF heavy wood stools, $40 pr. 982-8407.

QUEEN-SIZE BLACK metal headboard, $20. 982-8407.

KENMORE GAS dryer, heavy duty plus, $90. 982-8407.

EXECUTIVE BLACK leather desk chair, torn, $10. 982-8407.

SIMMONS QUEEN-SIZE mattress set, $75. 982-8407.

OFFICE DESK, metal, painted brown, $75. 982-8407.

QUEEN-SIZE BOOKCASE headboard, footboard & rails, oak, $95. 982-8407.

FULL-SIZE headboard, footboard & rails, Oak, $45. 982-8407.

MICRO-FIBER COUCH, excellent condition, only 1 yr. old, $800. 615-5201.

FULL-SIZE MATTRESS & box spring, $100; twin-size bedroom set, frame, headboard, 5-drawer dresser & 5-shelf bookcase, oak, $200. 554-4564.

LARGE RECLINER, micro-suede, tan, good condition, $100. 985-2244.

QUEEN-SIZE bed, box springs & mattress, $50. 941-3489.

QUEEN MATTRESS, very clean, excellent condition, $75. 982-9279.

TV ARMOIRE, pine finish by Broyhill, $100. (501) 882-3387, Beebe.

2 Couches, pd. $648 ea. new, $550 ea.; Overstuffed chair, pd. $496, $350 obo. Matching set, but selling separately. (501) 983-4579.

SET OF floor to ceiling curtains, brand new, $40 pr. obo. (501) 983-4579.

GAS STOVE, GE, good condition, $175; Furnace gas, Partner's Choice, will heat up to 1,900 sq. ft., $250 obo. 843-3103.

WASHER/DRYER, works well, $150 pr. (501) 993-2370.

ANTIQUE SOFA & chair, good condition, wood trim, $350. Email litwoman74@yahoo.com for pics. (501) 941-8602.

QUEEN ANNE computer desk, chair & side table, excellent condition, $150 for all. (501) 983-1140, LRAFB.

GLASS TABLE top, 48", exc. cond., $100. (501) 983-1140, LRAFB.

SUPER-KING MATTRESS, clean, good condition, $150. (501) 551-5643.

KENMORE ELITE used washer & dryer set. both for $110 or washer, $65 & dryer, $55. Will deliver for $20 more. Call or text (501) 628-2788, Brett, or e-mail bbusby@cebridge.net

UPRIGHT FRIGIDAIRE frost free deep freeze, very clean, 21.7 cu. ft., $400. (501) 288-4591, Beebe.

LARGE GUN cabinet, holds 20 guns, side-by-side locking glass & wood doors w/locking storage underneath, $250. (501) 288-4591, Beebe.

CHINA CABINET/BUFFET, table, 4 chairs, accent tables, bedroom suite. Can e-mail pics. (501) 749-9232.

SOFA, DISTRESSED leather w/recliners at each end, brown, 1 yr. old, $400. (501) 743-0133.

ANTIQUE 4-POSTER beds (2), dark wood, full size, $55 ea. (501) 837-5798.

COMPACT REFRIGERATORS: Kenmore, 3.3 cu. ft., brown exterior, $50; Haier 1.7 cu. ft., white exterior, $35. 941-9664.

TWIN-SIZE MATTRESS, great condition, $40; 2-seater patio swing w/cushion, $40. 554-4564.

KING-SIZE MATTRESS & box springs, good cond., clean, $75. 843-5033.

GE STOVE, 40"x20", good cond., white, $100. (501) 605-3241.

DURABRAND SD TV, black, 9x11 screen, $60; Magnavox DVD player, $15; black wooden TV stand, $10. (501) 605-3241.


WANTED

WANTED: GUITARIST, looking for like-minded musicians to start acoustic band. Serious inquiries only. (501) 541-7361, Paul.

WANTED: RUNNING or non-running vehicle for reasonable price. (501) 613-1640.

WANTED: DOGHOUSE, igloo if poss., free or reasonable price, 941-3839, Cabot.

WANTED: PORTABLE saw mill, reasonable price. 613-1640.


CEMETERY PLOTS

Two cemetery plots for sale in Chapel Hill Cemetery, $1,500 total. (501) 231-3598.


COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

For Sale: Building & contents (furniture & collectibles, flea market items) sitting on 3 lots in Judsonia on busy Hwy. 367. Perfect setup for inside/outside flea market, $89,900 firm. (501) 279-2998 or (501) 827-4281.


LOTS & ACREAGE

LOTS FOR sale in Prairie and Lonoke County. No credit check. 1.5 acres & up. Call Gary, (501) 765-2099.


RENTALS

IN BEEBE: very nice, 2 Bedroom/ 2 Bath apartments. All utilities paid including basic cable. Washer & Dryer furnished. $700 month. Twin Lakes Apartments. Call Lisa at 278-0498 or 882-2882.

Sherwood/Jacksonville areas. Beautiful 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Mobile Homes. Pool. Extra large lots, in quiet safe park, close to LRAFB. Newer carpet and appliances. Clean, quiet, & safe park. $325-$595 plus deposit. Get TWO WEEKS FREE RENT. (501) 835-3450.

Jacksonville Mobile Homes for rent. Quiet safe park, internet security cameras, 2 or 3 bedrooms, kitchen furnished. Water/sewer, trash dumpster & yard care furnished. (501) 982-5267.

FOR RENT or sale: 3 bedroom, 2 bath brick home, 1700 sq. ft., fenced backyard. 12 Nevada Ln., Cabot (behind Walgreens). $1,100 month, $1,100 deposit. No inside pets. (501) 796-6322 or (501) 680-4317. Available 4/15.

2 bedroom, 2 bath, central heat & air, tree shaded, new big garden tub, 1 mile from 67/167. $400 month, $400 security. (501) 988-5187. Ask for Ed.


HOUSES FOR SALE

CABOT, close to everything! 3BR/2BA, 1600 sq. ft., oversized 2-car garage, vaulted ceilings, gas FP, tile/carpet/pergo, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen, alarm, Jacuzzi tub, walk-in shower, his/her walk-in closets & his/her vanities in master, large rooms, fully fenced, storage building. New Roof in '08! $140,000 By Appt. only. (501) 607-1561.

FSBO: Cabot, 2059 sq. ft., 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 2 living, fireplace, all wood & marble floors, fenced backyard, pool & deck, 3 acres, cul-de-sac, close to Hwy. 67. $176,500. Will help with closing. (501) 399-7595, (918) 857-8844.

Sherwood FSBO: 8509 Easy Street, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1523 sq. ft., corner lot, fenced backyard, vaulted ceiling, new roof, $135,000. (501) 519-1348, www.easystreethouse.info.

$129,900, 2200 sq. ft., 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car, updated brick home, quiet neighborhood. Open floor plan, fenced yard, Gravel Ridge 5 minutes from LRAFB. (501) 837-4535.

No Realtors! Sherwood by Bill Harmon Center, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1182 sq. ft., siding, covered patio, fireplace, fenced backyard, freshly painted, Pella windows, new roof, blinds. $117,000. (501) 231-9118.

611 Grandview St., Sherwood, split 2 BR, 2 BA, open LR/DR/Kit., 2-car garage, double lot, new roof/laminate floor/paint, approx. 1674 sf., $136,900 for info./pics./appt. call (501) 835-7396.

COACHES CALL US

The Leader would like to hear from all coaches in all sports in our coverage area. Please e-mail results, statistics or information to leadersports@arkansasleader.com or fax to 501-985-0026 or call 982-9421.

PANTHER EDUCATION FOUNDATION SETS GOLF TOURNEY AT GREYSTONE

The Cabot Panther Education Foundation will hold its third annual golf tournament on Monday, April 26 at Greystone Country Club. The tournament is in need of sponsors and donations for prizes and auction. For information call Debbie Walters at (501) 743 3530 ext. 1132 or send e-mail to debbie.walters@cps.k12.ar.us or to www.pantherfoundation.net. The foundation is a not for profit corporation founded in 2006 to enhance and support the Cabot Public School District.

SERTOMA CLUB TO HOLD CANFIELD MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT

The Jacksonville Sertoma Club will sponsor the James Canfield Memorial Golf Tournament on May 14. Registration for the four-person scramble begins at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Lunch will be served at noon. Entry fees include green fees, cart and lunch. Single hole sponsorship is $100, a hole and team sponsorship is $300 and a four-person team is $250. Gift certificates will be awarded to the top three finishers in each flight and Gwatney Chevrolet will sponsor hole-in-one prizes on the par 3 holes. Contact Rose Glover, 880 N. Redmond, Jacksonville, AR 72076; humpty@Centurytel.net; 501-982-5181

CHARITY GOLF EVENT, HUG HEATHER AGAIN, AT HICKORY CREEK

Hickory Creek Golf Course at Arrington Road in Jacksonville will be the site of the Hug Heather Again charity golf tournament May 8 at 8:30 a.m. The tournament will benefit Heather Keister, 12, of Cabot, who has been through a series of surgeries at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and will soon undergo her 29th procedure and is anticipating an 8-10 week recovery period. The tournament is seeking sponsors and donations. Call (501) 744-7910 or (501) 563-2505 for information.

JACKSONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL RUNS HERSHEY'S YOUTH TRACK MEET

Jacksonville Parks and Recreation and Hershey’s Track and Field are sponsoring a track and field event at Jacksonville High School on April 22 at 4:30 p.m. Kids ages 9-14 can compete in basic track and field events with a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the North American Final Meet held annually in Hershey, Pa. Beginners and enthusiasts are welcome. Visit hersheytrackandfield.com for details. For volunteer information and to preregister call (501) 982-4171.

DUPREE PARK HOSTS MLB PITCH, HIT AND RUN COMPETITION

The Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department will host a free Aquafina Major League Baseball pitch, hit and run competition May 1 at 11 a.m. at Dupree Park in Jacksonville. Competitors in age groups 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 12-13 and have a chance to advance through four levels including team championships at Major League parks and the national finals at this year’s Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Individual championships and an all-around championship will be awarded, with the age group winners advancing to sectionals. Participants must bring a copy of their birth certificates and fill out a registration/waiver from. Call Josh Mayes at (501) 982-4171 for information.

AFCU CLASSIC BENEFITS ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S HOSPITALS

The Arkansas Federal Credit Union will hold a four-person golf scramble to benefit Arkansas Children’s Hospital at the Greystone Country Club Cypress Creek Course on April 22. Prizes go to the top three teams in two flights, closest to the pin and longest drive. Registration is 11:30 a.m., shotgun start is 1 p.m. and awards are at 6 p.m. For information call (501) 533-2259 or (800) 456-3000 ext. 2259. E-mail info@afcu.org.

MILLICAN GOLF SCRAMBLE WILL BENEFIT DU GREEN WINGS

Foxwood Country Club in Jacksonville will be the site of the Michael Don Millican Memorial Golf Tournament on May 24. The event, hosted by the Millican family and friends and sponsored by ABC Financial Services, is an 18-hole, four-person scramble. Fee is $300 per four-person limit and the tournament field is limited to the first 25 paid teams. Lunch is incuded in the fee.

Registration begins at 11 a.m. with lunch at 11:30 a.m. and the shotgun start at 1 p.m. For information call Bill Millican at (501) 350-5118 or e-mail wmillican25@comcast.net or call Casey Kemp at (501) 960-0110 or e-mail caseyk@abcfinancial.com.

MYRON D. HUNT

Air Force Staff Sgt. Myron D. Hunt, 25, of Cabot passed away April 10.

He was born Sept. 22, 1984, in Lumberton, N.C., to Michael Hunt and the late Belinda Ransom.

He is survived by his wife, Amber Hunt; one daughter, Madison Gabrielle Hunt, and siblings Crstalynn and Bear Hunt.

Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 14 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.

The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 15 at the Little Rock Air Force Base Chapel with Chaplain Capt. Jeffrey Scott officiating.

Arrangements are by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.

JOHN L. NOLEN

John L. Nolen Jr., 84, of Romance was born Jan. 15, 1926, and he died April 11.

He served in the 187th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division during World War II from 1944 until he was wounded in 1945 on Luzon Island as a paratrooper.

John worked as superintendent of H. C. Price Construction for 33 years, laying pipe in every state in the country except one.

He also was involved in this work in the Netherlands, Iceland, Iran and South America.

He shared his love of the Gospel through his music wherever he went – from prisons to the Grand Ole Opry.

He was a Baptist and a very wonderful person who helped anyone who came his way.

His personality and big smile won him many friends. John L. was never without a smile on his face or a song in his heart. He also loved to be outdoors hunting and fishing. His love was as large as the great outdoors for family and friends.

We love him and we will miss him every day.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Katherine; his parents, John and Flora Nolen, and one brother, Tom King.

John is survived by one son, John L. Nolen, III and his wife Nicole of Vilonia; one daughter, Johnnie Cook and her husband Rodney of Conway; seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and two sisters, Ola Hutto of Conway and Ila Fowlkes of Austin.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 14 at Smyrna Baptist Church, with burial in Oliver Cemetery. Arrangements are by Westbrook Funeral Home in Beebe.

JERRY HUBBARD SR.

Jerry Beland Hubbard Sr., 57, of Cabot passed away April 10.

He was born June 27, 1952, to the late Kelcye Hubbard and Effie Dunn Hubbard in Greenville, Miss.

He was also preceded in death by one brother.

Survivors include his wife Wanda Hubbard of the home; four children: Veronica Lynn Turnbull and her husband Phil of Asheville, North Carolina, Jerry Beland Hubbard, Jr. and his wife Cathy of Asheville, N.C., Kristi Lynn Hubbard and Kelcye James Hubbard and his wife Deanna of Cabot; one brother Danny; two sisters Jean and Dorothy, and four grandchildren, Tristan Turnbull, Emma Hubbard, Alexander Cash Hubbard and Hayden Daniel Hubbard.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 14 at Thomas Funeral Service Chapel.

Arrangements are by Thomas Funeral Service.

HUNTER SAMPLE

Hunter Scott Sample, age 1, of Cabot went to be with the Lord on April 12.

He was born March 21 in Little Rock to Nicholas Scott Sample and Danielle Marie Stewart.

He is survived by his parents; a brother, Corey Stewart; paternal grandparents, Gary and Melinda Sample; maternal grandparents, Ron and Margaret Stewart and a host of other family.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 14 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Park.

Arrangements are by of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.

WILLIE BURNETT

Willie Carolyn Warner Burnett, 67, of Jacksonville went to be home with her Lord and Savior on April 11.

She was born Nov. 10, 1942, in North Little Rock to the late Carl Thomas and Willie Maude Sullivan Warner.

She was also preceded in death by two sisters and one brother.

She was a homemaker, loving wife and mother, and an active member of First Baptist Church of South Bend. ?

Survivors include her husband of more than 50 years, Jerry Burnett; two daughters, Lindy Sando Roberts and her husband Marty of Cabot, Donna Park and her husband Mark of Hot Springs; sister, Grace Branam; brother, Johnny “Billy” Warner; five grandchildren, Qiana Gardner, Nazareth VJ “Joey” Sando, Jeffrey Park and his wife Michelle, Jason and Jared Park; three great-grandchildren, Julia, Olivia and Sabrina Gardner, and others.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 14 at First Baptist Church of South Bend with Pastor John Powell and Pastor Jeremy Holley officiating.?Entombment will follow in the Chapel Hill Mausoleum. ?

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of South Bend Building Fund.

Arrangements are by Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.

EVELYN CYPHERS

Evelyn Ruth Cyphers, 87, of Jacksonville passed away April 12.

She was born Oct. 20, 1922, in Corbin, Ky., to the late Gordan Mann and Ethel Woodall Mosley.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, James F. Cyphers; granddaughter, Ruth Anne Beckham; two brothers and one sister.

She is survived by her four children, John C. Greer and his wife Toni, Pat Hines and her husband Larry, Pam Buchan and her husband Bill, and Tammy Beckham her husband Jim, all of Mountain Home; one sister, Shirley Duenke and her husband Don; 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 15 with graveside services following at 2 p.m. at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Cabot.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Meals on Wheel of Mountain Home through VanMatre Senior Center, 1101 Spring Cooper Park, Mountain Home, Ark. 72653.

Arrangements are by Thomas Funeral Service in Cabot.

GRACIE CLOPTON

Gracie Michelle Clopton of Cabot passed away April 8.

She was born to Adam Hendrickson and Heather Clopton. ?

The funeral was April 11 at Cabot Funeral Home’s chapel with burial at Evans Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday.

EUGENE F. GOFORTH

Eugene F. Goforth, 85, of Cabot passed on to be with his Lord on April 9 at Springhill Baptist Hospital in North Little Rock.

He was born May 8, 1924, in Cabot to the late Aubrey C. and Roxie Grace Herrin Goforth.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Goforth was preceded in death by five brothers, Claude, Basil, Lee “Hank” and Lewis, all of Cabot, and Harold “Jiggs” of North Little Rock and four sisters, Marie Elmore, Elsie Cole and Helen Bishop, all of Cabot, and Regina Jeffcoat of California.

?Goforth served his country in the Army in the 536th Amphibious Tractor Battalion in the Philippines during the Second World War.

After his service, his first job was at Willy Ray’s service station. He also worked at Fort Roots Hospital as an aide and a substitute mail carrier. From 1953 to 1955, he owned and operated Goforth DX Station. After 1955, he took Dick Cole as a partner and the station was called Goforth and Cole’s.

In 1973, the station was purchased by Jerry Cole. In 1973, Gene built a building at 502 West Main St. and operated an ice house, bait shop and sporting goods store.

Goforth retired in 1979. In 1980, he hired Ray and Boyd to build a Fina station on West Main Street, which was rented by Geraldine and Dean Horn, who later purchased it.

Goforth was a member of First Baptist Church in Cabot where he was ordained a deacon in October of 1966.

He loved to work in the yard and garden, and to go camping and fishing. He also had a great sense of humor and never met a stranger.

?Goforth is survived by his wife of 63 years, Fredia Boyd Goforth of the home, as well as two daughters, Teressa and her husband Shelby Robinson of Lamar and Anita and her husband Keith Ihms of Little Rock.

Also surviving him are a brother, Ralph Goforth of Jacksonville; and three grandchildren, Jason Tipton of Little Rock, Jennifer Tipton Campbell of Conway and Kalli Tipton of Little Rock and two great-grandchildren, McKinley Grace Tipton and Beau Taylor Campbell.
?
The funeral was on April 12 at First Baptist Church in Cabot with Reverends Harold O’Bryan and Dick Avey officiating. Burial was at Sumner Cemetery.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to First Baptist Church’s Library or the charity of your choice.

Tell us it isn’t so! The morning prints reported yesterday that Mike and Janet Huckabee have adopted Florida as their home and have moved into a $1 million rental abode in Miramar Beach, a resort community on a narrow spine of land between the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawatchee Bay. They are nestled among four championship golf courses.

By declaring themselves as domiciliaries of Florida, the Huckabees will not have to pay Arkansas income taxes on Mike’s high six-figure income from Fox News and book royalties, but we are sure that had nothing to do with their decision to become Floridians. Actually, only Janet Huckabee has made it official that she is a Floridian. A spokesman for the former governor, the daughter who is running the Arkansas Senate campaign of John Boozman, wouldn’t say whether her dad was an official Floridian or an Arkansawyer.

They still own the stately home that they bought in Shady Valley just west of us after he left office in January 2007. But we are quite sure that the couple who repeated their vows in a celebrated covenant marriage would never be separated even by a legal distinction.

This poses a dilemma for Arkansas media such as us, who give inordinate attention to the exploits of Arkansawyers who have moved on to the national stage. If Mike Huckabee is not an Arkansawyer but a Floridian, do we continue to mark the sparrow’s fall when he utters a banality or falsehood in some eastern venue, such as a Fox telecast or column, or when another criminal that he freed while he was governor goes on a killing spree outside our borders? We don’t do that with, say, Sarah Palin or Mark Sanford or Mitt Romney.

Were he not a Floridian, for example, we would take note of Huckabee’s interview this week in which he equated gay and lesbian people with drug users, polygamists and people who have sex with their sisters, brothers and children and opined that people who did not believe in a god live completely devoid of morals. Or the column he wrote for Fox the other day praising the idea of a national sales tax, which he said would be wonderful because prostitutes, pimps, bookies and drug dealers would be required to collect a big sales tax from their customers and remit it to the federal treasury. (Imagine the federal bureaucracy that would be needed to enforce that rule.)

See, wherever his abode is, the man is just too interesting to ignore.

It has been our habit to mark the governor’s philosophical pilgrimage after he left the Arkansas Capitol. For nearly 10 years he was a pragmatic and often compassionate if slightly quirky public servant. He raised taxes over and over to improve education, vastly expanded government-paid health care to the poor (he called it socialism when President Obama tried it), employed a wildly liberal policy toward long-term inmates of the penitentiary and tried to enlarge the rights of immigrants living illegally among us before a Democratic legislature beat him down.

But nothing he says or writes anymore reminds you of that incarnation. We think it is important for purely scholastic reasons that we record the philosophical journey of this modern prodigal.

No matter where he pays or avoids taxes and registers to vote, until Mike Huckabee is caught wearing a Florida Gators cap, he is going to be an Arkansawyer to us. —E.D.

Disappointments, disappointments. Now we read that our favorite Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate, the joyful and sweet-tempered Gilbert Baker of Conway, has joined the little rearguard clique that wants to substitute a giant national sales tax for corporate and personal income taxes.

We have lost count of how many Republican candidates for the Senate and House of Representatives from northwest Arkansas have come out for the “Fair Tax,” the name that its authors dreamed up 20 years ago, but we should have guessed that Gil

Baker would eventually try to get ahead of the parade. He does that.

Still, it is disappointing. In spite of his right-wing pronouncements in this race, Baker was always a pragmatic lawmaker in his stints in the Arkansas House of Representatives and Senate. He was known even to vote for taxes for good causes. His transmogrification into a reactionary follows the pattern of his mentor, Mike Huckabee, including his embrace of the national sales tax. (See comment below.)

Substituting a broad sales tax for income taxes would shift the tax burden more radically from the rich to working people. Its adherents, like Huckabee, claim that its regressive effect would be offset by a government rebate to everyone to offset the taxes on what it costs to live in poverty. But the tax rate would need to be so huge — more than 30 percent by independent estimates — that it would lower the lifestyle of people of median incomes and less, and also accelerate the shift of wealth to the top one percent of Americans.

If Huckabee, Baker and the other politicians who have climbed on the sales tax bandwagon are serious and not merely grandstanding, they will climb on board with the AR One Tax. That is the nutty constitutional amendment that some ideologues who call themselves the Arkansas Progressive Group are trying to get on the Arkansas ballot this fall. The attorney general and secretary of state have approved the popular name and ballot title and have asked the Arkansas Supreme Court to certify that it would not mislead people about what they are voting on. We don’t think the Supreme Court will do that because the name and ballot title are not only bewildering and stupid, but also dishonest. But the amendment may get on the ballot and, who knows, the voters may approve it.

It purports to repeal all taxes levied by the state, although by deceit or oversight the authors leave many taxes untouched. The $5.5 billion of state revenues that support schools, highways, health care, prisons and all the other functions of government would be replaced by a sales tax on everything you buy, from groceries and cars to haircuts, doctor visits and the services of your gardener and your tax preparer.

Businesses wouldn’t pay any taxes, but all 2.9 million Arkansawyers would get a big check each month from the government to pay for the necessities of life. Just for an example, the Jim Bob Duggar family in Little Rock — the 21 of them —would get about $70,000 a year from the state. You would, of course, buy your new car and appliances in Memphis to save a fourth of the cost.

If that sounds like a plan, vote for our friend Gil Baker, or one of his Republican foes. They’re for it.

Jacksonville Fire Battalion Chief Joe Bratton tells Rotary Club members he saw devastation in Haiti while he worked to save lives in that poor nation.

By JOHN HOFHEIMER
Leader senior staff writer

“Pray for the people of Haiti,” Jacksonville Fire Battalion Chief Joe Bratton told Jacksonville Rotarians at lunch Monday.

Bratton, himself an associate Baptist preacher in Sherwood, traveled to Port-au-Prince in February, just weeks after the devastating earthquake that flattened the capital city and killed about 230,000 people. Bratton was part of a six-person team organized by a Baptist group in Arkansas.

As a paramedic, Bratton was part of a three-person medical team, accompanied by a three-person construction team.

“With the earthquake several weeks old when they arrived, we found ourselves dealing with infection and parasites as opposed to traumatic injuries,” he said.

“We were trying to get people as healthy as possible for the rainy season,” he said.

“After a while, we stopped testing for worms and wormed everyone.”

Bratton and his companions paid their own airfare and expenses. The suitcases of medications—which quickly ran out—were donated, as was the water purification equipment they set up and left behind.

“They are the third world of the third world,” he said. Maybe the fourth world.’

“They were economically and resource challenged before the earthquake.”

He worked with a doctor, a nurse practitioner and a registered nurse.

He found the conditions hot and humid. They slept inside a church that survived the earthquake, ate there most of the time and held their clinics either in the church or outside under a tree.

“We called it the Mango Tree Clinic,” Bratton said.

“We lived and stayed with the Haitians,” he said, “and saw 1,227 patients in five days.”

The people were friendly, gracious, grateful and resilient, with a good spirit for people who have lost the little they had before the earthquake.

He said that despite the lack of water, the people he saw appeared fresh and appeared to be wearing clean clothes. “They smelled better than we did,” he said.

Children played and carried on, he said. “Kids were kids and teenagers were teenagers.”

He saw youngsters flying a kite made out of a plastic bag.

He saw no evidence of roving gangs or people stealing or looting, but relief supplies were on hand by then, as was armed security from several nations. He was mostly in the Canadian zone.

Water from broken water mains ran down the streets, which were also where the garbage was thrown.

“The garbage lay on the street, where it was burned or hogs rooted through it.”

Bratton said it would take Haiti at least 30 years to recover. Landlords and homeowners had no insurance and wouldn’t be rebuilding homes. Many he saw had improvised shelters in the medians of the highways.

Former Cabot Mayor Stubby Stumbaugh addresses supporters at city hall.

By JOAN MCCOY
Leader staff writer

Standing on the steps of Cabot City Hall with 15 U.S. flags behind him, former Mayor Stubby Stumbaugh told about 100 supporters Monday evening that he is running for a second term.

Stumbaugh is the third candidate to announce. Bill Cypert, secretary and spokesman for the Cabot Water and Wastewater Commission, and Alderman Eddie Cook also are running.

Stumbaugh told the group, which included friends, family, fellow Republicans and members of his church, Christ Worship Center, that if elected he will be a “more humble servant” than he was in his first term.

Stumbaugh, now in his mid-40s, had taken a leave of absence from the Little Rock Police Department to run for mayor eight years ago. He did not seek another term but ran for Congress instead and lost.

Today, he works with large accounts for the garbage company IESI.

Stumbaugh counts among the successes of his first term the new community center and animal shelter which he pushed for.

When money to build those projects fell short, construction required the extension of a one-cent sales tax, which he opposed.

Cook and former Alderman Odis Waymack sponsored the referendum that put the question of extending the tax to the voters.

The extension of the tax raised more than $30 million and also paid for the construction of the wastewater treatment plant without raising sewer rates, the city’s part of the railroad overpass and about $2 million for street repairs.

Although the community center and animal shelter were built during Stumbaugh’s term, the other projects were completed under Mayor Eddie Joe Williams.

Williams, who is running for the state Senate and not a second term as mayor, was the only candidate Stumbaugh alluded to during the 15-minute announcement.

Just before 6 p.m., the traffic light at Second and Main Streets allowed only two or three cars to cross Main at one time.

Without using his name, Stumbaugh said that despite Williams’ attempts at improving traffic flow, it is at its “all-time worst.”

“We rerouted traffic; we timed lights and it wasn’t like it was today,” Stumbaugh said.

Stumbaugh also counted among his successes the special census that brought in new tax revenue mostly for streets and the construction of sidewalks around the schools with a grant that started under his predecessor and ended under Williams.

Although he didn’t elaborate, Stumbaugh told the crowd of well-wishers that he had made some mistakes during his first term because he was human.

But he said he had always worked hard to “protect kids and families” and to build better police and fire departments and that he is the candidate who will be proactive in seeing to their needs.

The announcement started with a prayer by his pastor asking God to sanctify the start of Stumbaugh’s campaign and an introduction by longtime friend Robin Standridge.

“I’ll do anything for Stubby because he’ll do anything for me,” Standridge said, adding, “Stubby’s promised that if he wins this time, he’s going to listen to me.”

As mayor, Stumbaugh was often embroiled in controversy. He hired his friends, sometimes to positions for which they proved to be unqualified, his critics said.

Several lawsuits against the mayor, council and city were filed during that time, including a suit by City Clerk-Treasurer Marva Verkler, who wanted back the duties Stumbaugh had asked the council to take from her.

That suit was eventually dropped and her duties were restored when Williams took office.

Stumbaugh feuded with the Cabot Chamber of Commerce and his working relationship with the Lonoke County judge was poor. When Judge Charlie Troutman asked during a council meeting for financial help building the road that connects Hwy. 5 to Walmart, Stumbaugh asked Troutman if he owned land in the area.

And since some council members supported the mayor and some didn’t, council meetings were often long and confrontational.

Batesville driver and defending MSRA series champion Billy Moyer, Jr. hot laps at Beebe Speedway prior to the season opener.

By JASON KING
Leader sportswriter

The car was new but the number, paint scheme and driver were quite familiar to local late model fans.

It was Stacy Taylor’s first trip to Beebe Speedway in well over a decade in his white 27 car with florescent graphics and numbers.

Taylor, of Cabot, fielded one of 23 entries for the Mid South Racing Association season opener Friday. And, it was his first trip anywhere in his brand new Moyer Victory Circle chassis, from the same brand that sat in victory lane with driver Billy Moyer, Jr.

Taylor shook down the new machine by qualifying 12th and finishing in the same spot for the feature, the first car a lap down.

“It was okay,” Taylor said. “Actually, the car was probably better than the driver; the driver might have been a little rusty. I don’t think we ran but about ninetimes last year, about August, and this is our first race since then.”

Taylor’s night on the track was fairly uneventful. He briefly battled for a top-ten spot with Kyle Beard, Dewaine Hottinger and Bill Frye early before settling into the 12th spot in his own space before leader and eventual race winner Billy Moyer, Jr. caught him with two laps to go.

Taylor made a name for himself in late models by winning a number of weekly features at Batesville Speedway in the late 90’s before becoming one of the early stars of the Mid America Racing Series. Taylor won four races on the MARS tour from 2000-05, including one in each of the first three seasons.

His first MARS victory came on July 3, 2000 at Batesville followed by his triumph at Malden, Mo., on July 6, 2001. Taylor won another MARS race at Batesville in late August of 2002, but went almost three years before capturing his most recent victory at Bolivar, Mo., on July 8, 2005.

But with two young children and a successful family business, Taylor, 39, has become more of a part-time racer.

The 21-year, late-model veteran helps operate Taylor Electric service company based out of Jacksonville and he runs in a handful of events every year.

“We just kind of try to get a feel for things, then a little bit later on in the summer, stuff opens up a little more,” Taylor said. “We’ll travel out a little more. We just came and did this deal because we needed to get a little experience and learn from it, then we’ll go somewhere else and try it.”

Taylor stated that he intended on running in the Topless 100 at Batesville in August.

Nick Rodriguez delivers a pitch for Jacksonville on Friday.

By TODD TRAUB
Leader sports editor

It’s too bad for Jacksonville that Friday’s Arkansas Activities Association benefit game with Little Rock Catholic didn’t count.

It certainly was a keeper as far as Jacksonville was concerned.

Jacob Abrahamson and Patrick Castleberry hit home runs as the Red Devils broke open a close game in a 6-1 victory over the Rockets at Dupree Park.

“What I like about this group is we may not put the total thing together every day but they find ways to win,” Jacksonville coach Larry Burrows said. “We found a way to win today with our pitching and defense and just scratched a few out. That’s what we seem to have done so far.”

Burrows said Jacksonville and Catholic couldn’t get the benefit game played in the preseason. Burrows said he used a hole in the schedule to not only play the game Friday, but to treat it like a real varsity matchup.

Specifically, Burrows had a few pitching objectives to accomplish and saw everything he wanted out of starter Nick Rodriguez and relievers Mike Lamb and Castleberry.

Rodriguez went five innings with three hits allowed, one run, two walks and two strikeouts to get the victory, and Lamb and Castleberry, who started at catcher, worked a scoreless inning each.

“The pitching is exactly what we wanted to see,” Burrows said. “I didn’t know if Nick would get five but we wanted five out of him and today would have been Lamb’s bullpen day so we wanted him to throw one and we wanted Castleberry to close.”

If there were a wild card, it was Castleberry. Burrows, looking to improve his bullpen depth, wanted to see his junior slugger throw and Castleberry worked around two walks in his scoreless seventh.

“He has thrown a couple times,” Burrows said. “But we got in a situation where one game we wanted to use him and our catcher, I’d done pulled him and screwed up. But I think that’s his third appearance of the year. We’re kind of thin there and it’s something we’ve tinkered with. You never know when we may need that arm.”

Abrahamson, the Red Devils’ leadoff man, hit a two-run home run to make it 4-1 in the fifth and Castleberry led off with a homer in the two-run seventh.

“I didn’t feel like we swung it very good,” Burrows said. “Luckily we got a few that got out of the ballpark.”

The late-game power broke open what had been a tight struggle early.

Catholic’s Drew McMahon singled with one out in the first but was erased in a double play. The Rockets went down in order in the second, then leadoff man Nick Battisto reached on an infield hit to lead off the third and was caught stealing.

But Catholic’s defense was even more stingy in the early going. Castleberry got a one-out, infield hit in the first and was the Red Devils’ lone base runner though three innings as Rockets starter Conner Gilmore struck out three and Battisto made four assists at third.

Zach Gibson drew a two-out walk from Rodriguez in the Rockets fourth and scored when diving right fielder Alex Tucker couldn’t quite glove Drew Turner’s high fly and it fell in for an RBI double.

Jacksonville responded with three straight singles to right by D’vone McClure, Castleberry and Caleb Mitchell in the fourth. Mitchell’s drive drove in McClure, then Rodriguez scored Castleberry with a sacrifice fly.

But Mitchell, who was on second after a double steal, was caught off base and tagged out in a rundown and Jesse Harbin struck out to leave Jacksonville in front 2-1.

The Red Devils padded their lead with Abrahamson’s home run and made the Rockets pay for an error in the fifth. First baseman Stuart Montez muffed Logan Perry’s two-out roller and Abrahamson followed with a drive over the left-field fence to make it 4-1.

Jacksonville tacked on two more in the sixth. Castleberry, facing reliever Will Ogles, homered over the left field fence and Mitchell doubled, setting the stage for courtesy runner Jake Lovercheck to steal third and score on catcher Logan Wewers’ throwing error for the 6-1 lead.

“No matter if we’re struggling pitching, if we’re struggling hitting, our guys think they’re going to find a way to get it done,” Burrows said. “That’s what I’m encouraged to see.”

Jacksonville (13-3, 6-0 6A-East) had a conference game at Little Rock Parkview then was looking to a stretch in which it faces Jonesboro, Mountain Home and Searcy, all 6-0 late last week.

Jacksonville plays host to Jonesboro at Dupree Park on Friday.

“Late-season games, they’re supposed to be important,” Burrows said.

Cabot’s Chase Thompson dives back to first after reaching in a recent game.

By TODD TRAUB
Leader sports editor

It was two comebacks in one for the Cabot Panthers at Beebe on Friday.

Panthers third baseman Ty Steele continued his comeback from a torn leg ligament, and with his help Cabot bounced back from a late-inning deficit to blow past Beebe 9-2 in a non-conference victory.

“It was actually closer than the score appeared,” Cabot coach Jay Fitch said.

Steele, who tore his posterior cruciate ligament while sliding in February, hit a two-run home run to spark an eight-run, sixth-inning rally.

“Thank goodness we’re getting him back and he’s healthy now,” Fitch said.

Steele’s first game back from his injury was as a designated hitter against Conway on March 30. Steele, a Henderson State signee who has been wearing a brace, was clearly slowed by the torn ligament at the time but has been improving steadily ever since.

“He’s an RBI guy,” Fitch said. “We’ve got him hitting in the five and six hole. That’s been kind of the chink in our armor this year. Pitching has been great, defense has been great and hitting has been kind of inconsistent.”

Beebe was leading 2-1 when Steele hit his two-run drive to left for the 3-2 lead. Immediately the Panthers’ bats seemed to come to life, and Fitch hopes Steele continues to have that effect on the offense.

“Everybody started hitting and we just had a really big inning there and we scored eight runs,” Fitch said.

Cabot continued its quality pitching as Tyler Erickson got the victory to improve to 3-0.

“Tyler Erickson has been throwing some of these non-conference games and helped us beat a very good Beebe team,” Fitch said. “They’re going to give folks fits in the 5A Southeast. They could win the thing.”

Cabot is in the 7A-Central.

The Panthers’ Tuesday starter, Matt Evans, is 5-0 while Cole Nicholson is 3-4 as the usual Thursday starter.

“He’s been kind of the victim of our poor offense,” Fitch said of Nicholson and pointed out a hard-luck conference loss taken by Nicholson against Little Rock Central on Thursday.

Nicholson gave up three hits while Cabot out hit Central 7-3 and still lost.

But with Steele returning, Fitch hopes Nicholson, and the rest of the staff, will benefit from more run support.

Fitch is also hoping to see something out of some untried pitchers on his roster. During non-conference games, like the Beebe matchup or this Friday’s game with 6A-East member Searcy, Fitch hopes to test his pitching depth.

Catcher Andrew Reynolds may take the mound to start the Panthers’ home game with the Lions, Fitch said.

“It’s probably the hardest position to go from, from catcher to pitcher,” Fitch said.

“From the catching position you’ve got a real short arm arc where in pitching it’s real long so it’s a totally different throw. A lot of kids have trouble with that.”

But frequently, at the high school level, Fitch said a coach sometimes finds his best athletes behind the plate, which makes them capable of making the transition to pitcher.

“Catcher at our level has got have a good arm,” Fitch said. “So at the high school level he’s going to be a candidate to help you on the mound too.”

Cabot is locked in a tight race with the rest of the 7A-Central. Entering Tuesday, Central, Conway, Russellville and Van Buren were 3-2 in conference and Cabot, Bryant, Little Rock Catholic and North Little Rock were 2-3.

The Panthers were 9-5 overall while Bryant boasted the league’s best overall record at 15-5.

By JASON KING
Leader sportswriter

Batesville’s Billy Moyer, Jr. avoided an opening-lap pileup and overcame stubborn lap traffic to hold off Memphis driver Dane Dacus on the way to a $2,000, first-place payday at Beebe Speedway in the first round of the 2010 Comp Cams MSRA tour Friday.

The defending series champion known as “Kid Smooth” began his title defense in dominant fashion with a flag-to-flag victory in Heat 4 before pulling ahead of Dacus on the third circuit of the feature to claim his first career triumph at the quarter-mile bullring.

“On the first lap, you just hate to see something like that happen,” Moyer, Jr. said of the seven-car fracas on Lap 1. “But that gave me a chance to take advantage of it, and for once, I capitalized on it. Once we got clear of traffic, we got away from them.

We’ve got a really good piece here.”

A total of 23 entries battled for the 20 available spots, with Broken Bow, Okla., teen driver Gary Christian winning Heat 1, Dacus winning Heat 2 and Jon Kirby winning the third heat while Moyer took the third starting spot in the feature by claiming the last heat.

Wynne driver Charlie Cole won the ‘B’ main consolation feature while Terry Henson, Joseph Long, Shane Stephens and Jeff Sloan took the remaining four transfer spots. Driver Austin Rettig took the series provisional to send Stormy Derryberry, Wesley Crutchfield and off-the-pace Little Rock driver Eddie Provence home.

Moyer, Jr., son of late-model hall of famer Billy Moyer, set a fast pace once the field took a complete restart. The first attempt to restart the race resulted in bedlam between turns one and two when front-row drivers Dacus and Jon Kirby of Russellville made contact and were piled into by most of the first four rows.

Dacus did not receive significant damage and was able to retain his polesitter spot for the restart. Kirby was not as fortunate, as his car had to take the wrecking hook back to his hauler and was credited with a 20th-place did not finish after starting second on the grid.

Also involved in the dustup were Bill Frye, last year’s winner Wendell Wallace, Jack Sullivan, Dewaine Hottinger and two-time MSRA champ Joey Mack.

But Kirby’s car was the only one to sustain any real damage while the rest of the cars were able to rejoin the field for the restart.

The brief red flag and subsequent yellow were the only times the race was slowed. After the complete restart, the race went flag to flag with Moyer, Jr. and Dacus side by side for the first three laps.

Moyer, Jr. was able to make his way around Dacus’ outside down the backstretch and claim the point on Lap 3, but had little time to put any space between the top two spots with backmarkers quickly approaching.

The 21 JR car of Moyer caught up to the 94 of Sikeston, Mo., driver Rettig on Lap 13, but Rettig, the rookie-of-the-year candidate, did not initially respond to flagman Chris Ellis displaying the blue-and-yellow leader flag as he passed under the stand ahead of Moyer.

It wasn’t until Lap 17 that Moyer, with Dacus close in tow, was able to clear Rettig and begin to put a few lengths on the 54 car of Dacus. The leader lapped up to 12th place driver Stacy Taylor of Cabot before the finish and eventually outpaced Dacus by nearly a straightaway.

“I’ve been lapped a lot,” Moyer said. “I know to move over. A lot of people don’t know, so that needs to be preached and preached. I won; I’m the fastest car here tonight, but tomorrow, I might be getting lapped. I know to get out of the way, because I’ve been around this. There’s nothing more irritating than catching a lapped car like that.”

Further back in the field, Greenbrier veteran driver Frye took the hard-charger award by moving up from his 13th starting spot to finish eighth. Five-time MARS late model champion Frye battled with Hottinger and Trumann driver Kyle Beard in the early going and moved from 10th to eighth on Lap 10, when he finally cleared both drivers.

Moyer, Jr. backed up his victory at Beebe on Friday by winning the second night of the MSRA doubleheader at Riverside International Speedway in West Memphis on Saturday for the weekend sweep and an early points lead.

But while a repeat as series champ is on his radar, Moyer also has his sights set on Eldora Speedway in Rossberg, Ohio, home to the two biggest late-model races in the country every year.

“I’m not committing to this deal,” Moyer, Jr. said. “I’m going to start, and I’m going to run it for a while. I want to go to Eldora and run up there, so I’m going to have to go. But, if they’ve got a race scheduled here, we’ll fight that debate.

“If we’re leading, it’s going to be hard to leave. I don’t know, it would be awesome to go back to back, I hope I can do it. We’ll just have to play it by ear; I really want to go to Eldora, is the main thing.”

Dacus finished second while Christian had a quiet third-place run. Sullivan was fourth and Wallace completed the top five. Mack finished sixth, followed by Jon Mitchell, Frye, Hottinger and Jeff Floyd.

MSRA will be back in action at Malden Speedway in Missouri on April 23 and back to Arkansas at I-30 Speedway in Benton the following night.

Beebe Speedway will host the show car of NASCAR Sprint Cup star Ryan Newman this Friday from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m., with a regular race card scheduled to start at 8 p.m. Newman’s No. 39 Stewart-Haas Chevrolet will display the Tornados burritos sponsorship with an identical paint scheme to the car Newman won with at the Sprint Cup race in Phoenix, Ariz., on Saturday.

By TODD TRAUB
Leader sports editor

The Arkansas Travelers have gotten to know their roomy team bus during the first road trip of the Texas League season, but now they are back to where the real elbow room can be found.

After going 3-3 in a swing through Texas, the Travelers start their first homestand of the year against the Midland RockHounds at 7:10 p.m. Thursday at Dickey-Stephens Park.

Arkansas is affiliated with the American League West’s Los Angeles Angels.

Travelers left-hander Jayson Miller (0-1) will start Thursday’s game against Midland left-hander Carlos Hernandez (0-0).

Arkansas was swept at Midland then swept three games from the Frisco Rough Riders in a series that concluded with an 8-1 victory at Dr. Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas, on Tuesday.

Catcher Brian Walker hit two home runs, designated hitter Jeremy Moore hit one and center fielder Clay Fuller, brother of former Travs outfielder Cody Fuller, hit a seventh-inning grand slam.

Arkansas starter Tim Kiely (1-1), who took the opening-night loss at Midland, pitched six strong innings Thursday. Kiely scattered five hits, gave up one earned run, walked one and struck out three. Blake Beavan (1-1) took the loss for Frisco.

“This year we have some speed at the top and bottom,” Travs manager Bobby Magallanes said. “And I think we’re going to be the type of team that’s going to do the little things.”

While the offense, especially the power hitters, came to life in the final game at Frisco, the fireworks might be muted somewhat in spacious Dickey-Stephens Park. Center field depth is 400 feet with a 360-foot gap in left-center field and a 375-foot gap in right-center.

A new home-run basket in left and left-center gives right-handed sluggers more of a fighting chance to hit the ball out, and a new yellow line atop the basket and the center-field wall should help eliminate disputed home runs.

By TODD TRAUB
Leader sports editor

I backed my car out of the driveway and turned directly into the clouds of green pollen blowing down my street.

Feeling a little like Lawrence of Arabia squinting into a sandstorm, I motored off not to fight the Turkish but to check up on some Travelers.

It was a Tuesday night. My destination was Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. My mission was to learn what I could about this year’s Arkansas Travelers, who were holding their first workout under the lights in their home ballpark before motoring off to Midland, Texas, for Thursday’s Texas League season opener.

It was my first chance to get a look at the 2010 team, generously assembled during spring training by the Los Angeles Angels and shipped from Arizona to North Little Rock for the latest, Class AA Texas League season.

In the hour set aside for media availability at Dickey-Stephens, I spoke to exactly zero players. Apparently “media availability” means “team meeting” because that’s what the players and manager Bobby Magallanes spent most of the time doing.

I stood with the other media wallflowers on the warning track near the home dugout, waiting for someone, anyone, to talk to. I told a few colleagues that “workout,” when translated from the ancient Sanskrit, actually means “no players.”

Yes, I like that joke so much I used it in two paragraphs. So sue me.

The fans, who had taken advantage of the free admission to watch the practice, sat scattered through the stands, checking their watches and wearing a collective expression that said, “What did we come here for?”

Hopefully, that look won’t be seen much once the home schedule begins.

Eventually, Magallanes and the players arrived a fashionable half-hour late for the 7 p.m. workout, like a prom date sashaying down the stairs. The players promptly began stretching and warming up before moving on to the batting cage, the bullpen and the basepaths.

Magallanes warmed up a little himself, jumping up and down in the third base coaches box, where he hopes to spend a lot of time directing Travelers rallies this summer, and waving runners toward home. Then he grabbed a glove and played a little catch at second base.

Magallanes practices a form of the running game favored by the parent Angels and their manager Mike Scioscia. That has led to a lot of putouts at third and a lot of stolen bases — in fact Arkansas led the league in both categories in 2007.

I used the warmup time to bore in on Magallanes and grill him with some hard questions.

“Tell me about the makeup of this year’s team,” I demanded.

“Looks like your hitting roster might be suited to this ballpark,” I said intuitively.

“Your opening-night pitcher, Tim Kiely, looks like a fun-loving guy,” I shrewdly observed.

Under such hard questioning Magallanes buckled and told me he was really optimistic about the season, his hitters would find the gaps in the outfield and his staff would keep opposing batters off balance.

Also, ominously, he promised the team would continue to run the bases aggressively.

Okay, it was the usual preseason hoo-hah, which took something of a hit when Midland pounded Arkansas 11-1 in the season opener at Midland on Thursday.

But it’s a long year, 140 games, so it remains to be seen if the one-sided loss will be an anomaly or the norm. Like everyone else, I’ll just have to wait and see if streaks, slumps, injuries or promotions help or hurt the Travelers and their opponents in an eight-team league where you can win a championship with a losing record, as Arkansas did in 2008.

I did learn a few neat things Tuesday night.

For example, the Travelers have a really cool team bus. While Ryan Mount was pounding a few batting practice home runs to right field, Arkansas sportscaster of the year Phil Elson took a few of us media members to the parking lot for a tour.

The cab looks more like that of a semi truck while the passenger area is a comfortable barracks of double-decker beds, foldaway tables and flatscreen TVs. A bearded guy I didn’t know lay on one of the bunks reading a paper and watching a CSI spinoff as we toured.

“He comes with the bus,” Elson said.

Elson, and Magallanes, are proud parents of beautiful children who are under a year old. Which means both men were looking forward to the long bus rides as a chance to catch up on their sleep.

The rest of us are just looking forward to seeing the bus pull into the home parking lot so we can watch some baseball.

We will all have to wait until a trial this fall to figure out if the Conway Human Development Center is seriously negligent in the way that it houses and treats people who are left in its custody, and that may not be conclusive. But U.S. District Judge Leon Holmes was as right as he could be this week in refusing to immediately halt admissions to the colony based upon the as-yet unproven allegations of the U. S. Justice Department that residents there are in mortal danger.

The Justice Department for more than a decade — under three administrations — has been on a mission to reform the Conway center, which was once known as the Arkansas Children’s Colony when it was the first state institution to care for the developmentally disabled.

We are sure that the Justice Department lawyers are sincere in their belief that the program at Conway, which serves more than 500 severely disabled residents, is backward, needlessly harsh and often cruelly negligent. The Justice Department is sworn to implement the Americans With Disabilities Act, which requires that developmentally disabled people be treated in the least restrictive environment — in other words, in a way that leaves them maximum personal freedom.

Gov. Mike Beebe and the state Human Services Department say that the Justice Department wants to close the Human Development Center and put everyone in community settings, and they say that philosophy is misguided and would produce the very cruelty that the federal lawyers say is endemic to the large institutions. The anecdotal evidence has been that families of the Conway center’s residents side rabidly with the governor and the administration of the center, not with the Justice Department and its experts.

Since instituting the action in federal court against the Human Development Center years ago, the Justice Department has filed some disturbing reports on abuse and negligence at the center, much of it involving mechanical restraints on residents and improper medication, and worrisome statistics on how the Conway center and the other Arkansas programs stack up against other states.

The trial in September will come none too early for the judge, the government and all of us to evaluate the truth of the allegations. The feelings of family members who have loved ones at the institution are to us a testament at least as convincing as the Justice Department’s studies.

Judge Holmes had to decide whether the prospects of cruelty were greater by allowing people to continue to admit loved ones to the center for the next five months or by denying them. The center has a long waiting list of families who want to place youngsters in the center’s care. We admire his judiciousness, his judicial restraint.

If the danger to residents from carelessness, outmoded treatment and unduly harsh restraints is so great, the judge wondered, why did the Justice Department waited for years, until five months before the case was scheduled for trial, to suddenly allege that the dangers were so high that the public interest demanded that no one else needing care should be admitted? It simply did not meet the standard of proof to justify the court interfering with a program for which there is a huge demand.

Our hunch is that the trial will produce evidence that the Conway center needs more enlightened and, yes, more humane, treatment of many of its charges. Everyone up to the governor has acknowledged that another nearby state facility for the disabled, at Alexander, is so slipshod that it must be removed from its present governance.

But the greater injustice, as Judge Holmes seems to have concluded, would be to deny many the care that their families so desperately crave until everything is fixed.

By NANCY DOCKTER
Leader staff writer

The school board for the Pulaski County Special School District voted Thursday to call back Charles Hopson, an Arkansas native with Jacksonville roots, who was among four finalists previously considered for the superintendent’s post.

The board hopes to fill the position before the contract of the interim chief runs out June 30.

“I am shooting for the 14th (of April),” school board president Tim Clark said about an inter view with Hopson, “but we’ll talk with him whenever he is available.”

“He is an outstanding candidate. I had nothing but kudos for him,” school board member Bill Vasquez of Jacksonville said about Hopson when he was interviewed by the board several months ago.

Hopson has been a teacher and principal in Portland, Ore., schools and serves as deputy superintendent of the district, which has an enrollment of 46,000 students.

He graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a degree in elementary education and has a doctorate in educational policy and management.

Hopson has been away for 18-20 years. His mother lives in Jacksonville, according to Vasquez. “His first job after he graduated was with Pulaski County Special School District at Northwood in 1982. He knows what a tremendous district this was. He is ready to come home.”

Vasquez says Hopson has the leadership and experience to deal with tough issues. The teachers union is “tough” in Oregon, a pro-labor state, and by comparison, the Pulaski Association of Classroom Teachers is “really, really mild-mannered,” Vasquez said. In addition, Hopson has weathered the Portland district being under court supervision.

By NANCY DOCKTER
Leader staff writer

The Pulaski Association of Classroom Teachers once again is the bargaining agent for teachers in the Pulaski County Special School District, Circuit Judge Timothy D. Fox ruled Thursday.

For now.

Both sides are claiming victory in Fox’s ruling in the lawsuit brought by the union against the school board.

Fox ruled that the board did have the authority to terminate the union’s standing as bargaining agent, but did not follow the state law.

The district withdrew recognition of PACT at an emergency meeting Dec. 8, “effective immediately” but failed to first have a policies and personnel policy committee in place as required by state law.

Fox declared the board decision “null and void.”

“I was pleased with Fox’s ruling,” school board president Tim Clark said. “We do have the right to decertify the union, but our timing was not right. At least we know what we can do. We need to recognize (the union) for the remainder of the contract. We will definitely adhere to the conditions of the court.”

Marty Nix, president of PACT, on Thursday interpreted Fox’s ruling as a victory for the union.

“This is excellent,” Nix said, as she began to read through the document for the first time, just minutes before the start of the Thursday board meeting. “I am ready to go back to the table and get this contract finalized so the district can go forward.”

The school board has the authority to terminate its professional negotiating agreement with PACT if it is in compliance with these statutory requirements, Jay Bequette, attorney for the PCSSD, told the board at an emergency meeting Thursday night that had been called to determine the next steps in the search for a new superintendent.

Bequette said that the board had the option of immediately setting a date by which union recognition would be terminated that would give the board time to establish the policies and committee required by state law.

The board has approved the creation of a personnel-policy committee and it’s now up to the teachers to decide on their representation on that committee. The committee would then recommend personnel policies to the board.

Board member Gwen Williams, who had voted against union decertification, said that such action would be bad for the district.

“We are already in disarray…we are already in turmoil,” Williams said. “We look like fools in the papers. We put the cart before the horse.”

Board member Charlie Wood, who initiated the decertification action in December, indicated he was eager to do so again, but at another time.

“If and only if four members want to pursue this avenue, we have the legal recourse,” Wood said. “The judge has pretty much given us his blessings…I don’t think we can do that tonight. That was not the point of this meeting.”

Asked after the meeting when he might want to take up the issue, Wood replied, “Tomorrow.”

Clark, who also voted in December for decertification, said after the meeting he favored decertification, but did not want to set a definite timeline until the board could meet to discuss it.

Although the board voted in December to end the district’s relationship with the union, the teachers’ contract in effect at that time remains valid until a new one is negotiated.

Interim Superintendent Rob McGill said that the district administration was already working on policies so that a personnel committee could be established.

The districts in Arkansas in which teachers have union representation are in the minority. Most districts have personnel policy committees made up of elected teacher representatives as well as administrators.

After Nix heard what Bequette told the board, she said, “I am not going to address Mr. Bequette’s stuff. I want to check with our attorney. I don’t necessarily agree with his interpretation.”

Nix maintained that the board cannot decertify the union as long as the existing contract is in place and a successor agreement has not been negotiated.

“The contract has a recognition clause that allows PACT to negotiate on behalf of teachers as long as membership remains 50 percent plus one (member),” Nix said.

Nix said according to most recent estimates, about 920 PCSSD teachers out of about 1,200 are union members.

Fox also ruled that the teachers who walked out on Dec. 10 in objection to the decertification had indeed engaged in a strike, but that “no reprisal would be taken against any teacher for participating in the strike.”

The ruling stated that there is no state law or state Supreme Court ruling “on whether public employee strikes in Arkansas are legal or illegal, and the issue is accordingly, one of first impression.” Therefore, the teachers’ own contract, which specified that there would be no reprisals for a strike, and the rights enjoyed by nonpublic employees applied, Fox concluded.

Nix said she disagreed with Fox’s ruling that the walkout was a strike, claiming that the teachers actually took “accrued leave” as allowed by their contract and deserved to be paid.

“Those teachers were out on contractual leave; they didn’t walk out on their children,” Nix said. “It is leave guaranteed them.

We were charged leave without pay. The district changed the official leave forms they turned in.”

Nix she did not know if PACT would appeal that decision.

“I don’t know. I am looking at this as a great day.”

The union in December had ratified the tentative contract agreement reached by chief negotiators for the union and district administration.

Teachers went to the emergency board meeting on Dec. 8 with the expectation that the board would ratify the agreement.

When that did not occur, tempers flared. Wood saw his opportunity to get a majority on his motion to decertify, which had failed previously.

“I struck when the iron was hot,” he said recently, recalling that night. Clark, who had for months not been supportive of decertification, this time cast the swing vote.