Wednesday, May 25, 2005

SPORTS>> Early heat slows down Falcons' spring drills

By RAY BENTON
Leader sports editor

The North Pulaski Falcons got spring practice started again this week, and the unseasonable heat played a big role in just the third day of full pads.

“It’s hot,” North Pulaski coach Tony Bohannon said. “In a way you want it hot, but it’s taking its toll on ‘em. You could really see it (Monday).”

One of the biggest question marks the Falcons face heading into the spring session is at the quarterback position. Four players have been taking snaps, trying to fill the hole left by three-year starter Mitchell Regnas.

Scott Bolen, Shane Graham, Josh Wiley and Jason Regnas are currently working the position under center. Bolen and Graham may be moving ahead of the others as the top two for the spot.

“Scott Bolen and Shane Graham are both doing well, especially Scott,” Bohannon said. “He’s doing a good job and looking pretty good. It’s still way too early to tell though. That’s just for right now. They’re all four still kind of bunched up together.”

Bohannon made it clear that the 2005 football Falcons would attempt to put the ball in the air much more than in the past, while keeping much of their run formations intact as well.

“We’re not completely discarding the I-formation, but we’ve got some new stuff we want to put in. We’re doing a lot of learning.”
The new formations have required a lot of teaching time so far this spring. But the team has still gotten after it physically.

“We’re doing some learning but there’s been a few licks passed out too,” Bohannon said.

The physical nature of the practices hasn’t caused any injuries so far. One player has suffered a dislocated finger, but no other injuries have been reported.

“We’ve escaped injuries so far,” Bohannon said. “The kids are playing through some little aches and things. They’re responding very well to what we’re teaching them. It’s been a good spring so far.”

Bohannon says the Falcons plan to do some live scrimmaging on Thursday, their last day of spring practice.

Numbers haven’t increased, still hovering between 35 and 40 players dressing out per day. Athletic banquets for other sports, among other things, have interfered with football practice for some players. But more are expected to come out when two-a-days begin in August.

SPORTS>> Cabot southpaw signs with coach-less Trojans

By RAY BENTON
Leader sports editor

Cabot pitcher Tim Payne became just the second Panther baseball player to sign a Division I scholarship when he signed on with the University of Arkansas-Little Rock last Thursday afternoon. Payne is a 6-foot, 4-inch southpaw.

Payne is currently unsure about who will be his head coach when he arrives on campus late this summer. UALR just announced Tuesday morning that head baseball coach Brian Rhees has been terminated after nine years. Rhees compiled a 190-292 record while overseeing stadium and facility renovations.

UALR called Payne last week and offered him the opportunity to back out of the commitment, but Payne decided to stick with his original choice even without knowing who his coach will be. Payne was also informed by pitching coach William Colberson, the man who recruited Payne to UALR, that he would not be back next season either.

Still, Payne chose to stay a Trojan.

“I just told them to go ahead and send my paperwork in,” Payne said. “Coach Colberson had a lot to do with my decision. I really thought he could help me out a lot. But I just really liked everything about UALR so I decided to stick with my decision.”

He didn’t have as good of a senior season on the mound as he had hoped, but a tall, hard-throwing lefty was too much upside potential for colleges to turn away from.

Payne chose the Trojans over several other schools ranging from mid-major DI to NAIA. While lots of schools courted Payne, he felt all along he wanted to be a Trojan.

“I kind of knew I wanted to play there when I played there in the juniors All-Star game last summer,” Payne said. “I pretty much had my heart set on UALR.”

Payne had an outstanding outing in that Xtra Innings Magazine sponsored event, blowing through the state’s best underclassmen throughout the two-day event.

Culbertson called Payne just a couple days later to express interest in Payne joining his team. Colberson kept in touch frequently and finally made an official scholarship offer after the Panthers swept West Memphis earlier this season.

Payne compiled a 5-3 record this season. He struck out 53 batters in 53 innings of work and walked 37.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about Payne’s senior year at Cabot was hit hitting. Payne had his best season, by far, at the plate.
Payne had 65 at bats, picked up 29 hits including three doubles. He walked 14 times while striking out just seven times for a .446 batting average. He also drove in 14 runs this season.

Cabot coach Jay Fitch said Payne put in a lot of work to improve his hitting between his junior and senior seasons.

“Even though he’s always wanted to be a college pitcher, he has worked hard on his hitting mechanics the last three years,” Fitch said. “That coupled with him getting stronger and having confidence helped him to have the year he had at the plate. I like to call it senioritis—I expect them to have the best year of their careers as seniors.”

Payne plans to join a few of his senior teammates on the Jacksonville American Legion team this summer before reporting to UALR.

EDITORIAL>> The court 'next time'

There must be days when the title “justice” is a heavy mantle about the shoulders, and the bearer yearns to be on the other side of the bench. Such was Thursday, when the Arkansas Supreme Court heard oral arguments on a motion by 47 Arkansas school districts, including the Pulaski County Special School District, that the court reopen the Lake View school case.

We do not envy the court its task. However it rules, it cannot escape the criticism that it has been fickle and impetuous, not good qualities in an appellate court that is the final arbiter of law in the state. After finally holding the Arkansas public school funding formula unconstitutional and assigning responsibility to the Legislature and the governor, it declared the case closed in 2002, then reopened it when the legislature and the governor dallied in 2004, then seemed to close it again after the legislature had leaped into action and passed a few taxes and a lot of school laws.

Now the school districts contend that the 2005 legislature reneged on the commitments that led to the court’s finding last year that it was in compliance with the Constitution. The court has to decide whether it has retained jurisdiction or whether the Lake View case is indeed legally dead, in which case schools must start over with a fresh suit in Pulaski Circuit Court.

If it retains jurisdiction, then in very short order it may have to face a graver choice than the justices have yet faced, whether to order the legislature or perhaps the governor to take concrete steps to make the schools constitutionally whole. In the most painful and direct questioning by Justice Donald L. Corbin, the schools’ lead attorney, David Matthews of Lowell, explained what that final step might be. The court need not order new taxes — a truly unprecedented step in this state — but it could order the state’s chief fiscal officer, who serves the governor, to cut warrants to school districts representing the amount of money that the court deemed constitutionally appropriate.

The Supreme Court’s original order said the legislature could no longer simply divide up the state’s general revenues each year and assign a portion to all the services that it had mandated. That is the Revenue Stabilization Act, which has ruled the distribution of taxes since 1947. Rather, since an adequate education is specifically mandated in the Constitution and other programs are not, the state must determine what the schools must have first, then distribute what remains elsewhere.

Last year, that is precisely what the legislature did and the Supreme Court found it to be good. This year, however, the legislature kept the schools’ per-child aid for the coming year at exactly that of the current year because it had so many other demands to meet: colleges, prisons, Medicaid, public employee raises, the hustle by local groups for pork projects. That almost by definition defies the new rule of obliging the schools first.

It is always dangerous to predict future court votes by oral arguments, but we will be shocked if the court reopens the case and keeps jurisdiction. The court has seemed to be split 4-3 in the past. Justices Corbin, Tom Glaze and Betty Dickey have wanted to keep the case before the court and hold the legislators’ feet to the fire.

Glaze has been eloquent in saying that the court should not flinch when it is so close finally to achieving a constitutional school system. Corbin and Glaze still seem to be of the same mind. Dickey, who serves a temporary appointment on the court from Gov. Huckabee, was with Glaze and Corbin last time, perhaps because Huckabee at the time wanted the legislature punished for not embracing his school consolidation remedy. Now that Huckabee is on the other side — he says the legislature did marvelous work this time — Dickey may join Chief Justice Jim Hannah, Justices Jim Gunter and Robert L. Brown and another special Huckabee justice if she is needed, all of whom seem to want to consider the case over.

Justices Brown and Hannah have all along said the court could not be a superlegislature, mandamusing either taxes or the specific distribution of them, a role they say is assigned exclusively to the legislative branch. The newly elected Jim Gunter seems to be of the same mind.

Were we to guess, we would imagine that the court will let this cup pass from its hand this time but send a strong message to the state officials and to the next trial court that next time — next time, by golly — it will not brook half measures.

OBITUARIES>> May 25, 2005

DELBERT FLORY
Delbert Flory, 74, of Cabot, went to be with the Lord Monday, May 23.

He was a retired supervisor in the meat department for Sexton Foods. Mr. Flory enjoyed woodworking and listening to Bluegrass music. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Frances; one daughter, Deborah Wooten and husband Steven of Cabot; two sons, Dwight Flory and wife Peggy of Austin and Phillip Flory and wife Camellia of Houston, Texas; five grandchildren, Jason Flory, Detria Birch, Chris Wooten, Daniel Wooten, Sean Wooten; three great-grandchildren, Madison Tounzen, Noah Birch and Madison Birch; one brother, Winfred “Buddy” Flory of Cabot; two sisters, Lorine Arey of Benton and Catherine High of Little Rock.

Visitation begins at noon Wednesday at Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe, with family receiving friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Cabot, with burial at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
Arrangements are by West-brook Funeral Home.


SCOTT MCRANEY
Scott Alexander McCraney, 20 of Jacksonville died May 19. McCraney was born Feb. 24, 1985 to Kimberly McCraney.
He worked for Pathfinder.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home Chapel followed by interment in Chapel Hill Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Funeral arrangements are under direction of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.


THELMA GASSAWAY
Thelma Gasaway, 95, of Beebe, died May 22. She was a retired sales clerk and a Methodist. Graveside service is at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 25 at Antioch Cemetery. Arrangements are by Westbrook Funeral Home.


BETTEYE BAILEY
Bettye Ruth Bailey, 74, of Beebe, went to be with the Lord Saturday, May 21. She was born in Walker, on July 6, 1930.
Bettye was a devoted wife and mother. She retired from the VFW Post 7769 after eleven years of service as a janitor and was a member of the Beebe First Church of the Nazarene.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Louie Cosby Bailey, Sr.; one daughter, Juanita Evans; and one son, David Lynn Gray, Sr. She is survived by four sons, Louie Cosby Bailey, Jr. of Floyd, Charles Ray McElhaney, Sr. and wife Joni of Tall Timbers, Maryland, Allan D. McElhaney and wife Claudetta of Gravel Ridge, and Freeland Omar McElhaney and wife Michelle of Vilonia; two daughters, Shirley Dianne Haley and husband David and Lisa Monten Evans and husband Allen, all of Beebe; 20 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Orville D. Gray of Tuscumbia, Ala., and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 25 at Beebe First Church of the Nazarene, with burial in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are by Westbrook Funeral Home.


CLARA TUBBS
Clara Helene Kellogg Tubbs, 89, of Jacksonville, formerly of Ovid, Michigan passed away Sunday, May 22 at Woodland Hills Healthcare Center in Jacksonville.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Jacksonville for many years and enjoyed volunteering there.
For over 30 years Mrs. Tubbs was an active volunteer at the Rebsamen Regional Medical Center in Jacksonville where she cherished her life as a member of the Hospital Auxiliary.

She enjoyed many precious friendships made in these two areas of her life. She was preceded in death by her husband Gordon Tubbs.

Mrs. Tubbs is survived by two sons, Norman (Marilyn) Tubbs of Burnsville, Minnesota, Dan (Pam) Tubbs of Sherwood; three grandchildren, LeAnne (Keith) Spears of Minneapolis, Minn., Nicole (Derek) Girtman of Farmington, Minn., Joshua Tubbs of Sher-wood; two great-grandchildren, Hannah Lee and Jack Norman Girtman of Farmington, Minn.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Carol Goddard officiating. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pathfinder Inc., 2411 West Main St., Jacksonville, AR. 72076 or Rebsamen Hospital Auxiliary, 1400 Braden St., Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076.

Funeral arrangements are under direction of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.


CAROL YOUNG
Carol Franklin Young, 90, of Carlisle went to be with the Lord May 21. He was born Sept. 9, 1914 in the Hamilton Community to Charles and Lula Young. He was a member of Carlisle United Methodist Church.

He was a lifelong farmer and an avid sports fan.

He played semi-pro baseball for many years, and was chosen to play for the St. Louis Cardinals during the 1940s, but family and farming took precedence. He was founder of Babe Ruth baseball in Carlisle where he coached for over 20 years.

For his dedication to baseball and youth, a field was named in his honor, Carol Young field at Rockefeller Park.

Carol also had a passion for dancing and did this on a regular basis. He was considered one of the best waltzers to have ever danced. He enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest and loved this community and its people.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Tince Boals Young.

Survivors include four daughters, Betty Flo Elder and Sandra Hart of Carlisle, Barbara (Dub) Hamric of Hazen, Sherry (Kent) Barbee of Gilmer, Texas; also, John Hart of Carlisle; a twin brother, Harold (Inda) Young of Dewitt; a sister, Hazel Thomas of Nashville; 11 grandchildren 16 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services were held Monday at Carlisle First United Methodist Church with interment in Carlisle Cemetery.

Arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke.


CARLENE NICHOLS
Carlene “Nick” Claybon Nichols, age 70, of Jacksonville was called to heaven on May 21.

This sweet angel departed in peace and tranquility. Carlene was born in Madisonville, Ky. on Sept. 15, 1934 to Pete and Marie Logan Nichols, Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, George and Leroy Nichols, and sister, Effie Buell.

He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, with a wonderful sense of humor. Nick enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1954, rising to the rank of Technical Sergeant.

He served as a flight engineer for his entire 20 year career. He served in Vietnam and was stationed all over the world.
After his retirement in 1974, Nick opened an upholstery shop with a partner, becoming independent after about 10 years.
He continued in business until he became ill in 2000.

Nick also worked as a tax consultant for H & R Block for 15 years. Always wearing a smile, he never met a stranger and his jokes will always be remembered by those who knew him well.

Nick’s smiling face and sense of humor will be missed tremendously by his family, friends and acquaintances. His wings were truly earned and well deserved.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joanetta Steppe Nichols; daughters; Kimala Forrest, Carletta (Jerry) Wilson all of Jacksonville; son, Rochone (Cathy) Nic-hols of Arlington, Texas; brothers, James (Eula) and John (Frankie) Nichols of Madisonville, Ky., and Pete (Betty) Nichols of Indiana-polis, Ind.; sister, Annie Nell Nichols of Madisonville, Kentucky; mother-in-law, Mattie Larkin and Aunt Lillian Lyles also of Jack-sonville. Nichols leaves seven blessed grandchildren, Aramy Qualenta Forrest, Ashley Martin Nichols, Cortessa, Jerica and Jeremy Wilson and Adreanna Nichols. Nick cherished his friendship and love with Micheal Forrest, many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 25, 2005 at Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home Chapel followed by entombment in Chapel Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum.

Funeral arrangements are under direction of Moore’s Jacksonville Funeral Home.


RAY MJRRAY
Ray Murray, 92, passed away May 22. He was born to Lewis and Mary Stanfield Murray on Nov. 20, 1912.

He was a World War II veteran serving in the infantry 1942-1945. He was a veterans Friend, and life member of VFW and DAV.
A member of Lonoke Baptist Church and a self-employed timberman

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Walter, Marvin and Gilcy Murray.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Thelma Murray, and his nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were Tuesday, at Boyd Chapel with interment in Lonoke Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke.

TOP STORY>> Court, legislature could clash, Bond warns

IN SHORT: The Jacksonville representative tells the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce that the state Supreme Court could tell lawmakers how much the state should spend on public school education.

By GARRICK FELDMAN
Leader editor

Rep. Will Bond (D-Jacksonville) on Tuesday raised the possibility that the state Supreme Court could take over public school education in Arkansas if justices decide later this week that the legislature has not appropriated enough money for school districts.

Bond told a luncheon meeting of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce that the Supreme Court, as it revisits the Lake View lawsuit, could issue a narrow ruling in favor of the 47 state school districts that have filed suit against the state for more funding.

If that happens, the court would appoint a special master again who would decide how much the state should spend on public education, Bond said.

“They’re becoming the legislature,” Bond complained, referring to the Supreme Court. “They’ve gone about as far as they can without a showdown.”

“We’re treading on dangerous ground,” he warned, saying that the court could become a superlegislature.
“Can courts dictate spending?” Bond asked. “This is a separation of powers issue.”

Bond, who is running for House speaker next year, laid out the possibility that the court could double the amount the state should spend on school building improvements.

“What if the special master says the legislature should spend $200 million for facilities?” Bond asked. “They’re taking over the job of the legislature.”

He said the legislature appropriated $100 million for school building improve ments, but if the special master demands more spending, the governor would have to call a special session.

“What if the governor won’t call a special session?” Bond went on. “He’s the only one who can do it. It’s a pretty scary thing.”
Special masters were appointed last year but took no action as they let the legislature decide how to fund education.

Bond thinks the legislature during the last special session spent about as much as it could with the limited resources it has.

Per pupil spending has in-creased to $5,400, and the legislature has allowed for additional funding for the poorest districts, although the figures are the same for next year, which is why many school districts are suing the state.

Compounding the problem of state funding is a disparity among school districts when it comes to teacher salaries. Bond pointed out that the Bentonville School District has given teachers $5,400 in teacher raises, while poor districts cannot match that and will lose teachers to better-paying districts.

The state could equalize teacher salaries, Bond said, but he didn’t think that was a good idea.

Arkansas faces two immediate problems, he said: Lack of available revenues and inexperienced legislators who must leave office after just a few years at the Capitol.

Bond, who believes Arkansas is not investing enough in its future, said the state is next-to-last in property taxes, with $371 per capita, compared with, say, more than $1,100 in Texas.

But Arkansas has one of the highest sales-tax rates in the nation, ranking fifth after the latest eighth-cent sales tax for education.
Expenses are rising not only for education, but also for the Department of Human Services, which has seen a 29.5 percent increase in its 2005 budget. The Department of Correction is up 12 percent, he said.

“These are significant budget issues that we have to deal with,” the representative said.

With a $15 billion budget, Arkan-sas’ revenues are not keeping up with its needs. General revenues are ex-pected to increase to $4.7 billion in 2005-06, up from $4.6 billion in 2004-05.

Yet the part-time legislature must tackle complicated finances when many lawmakers get less than a year of actual legislative experience over six to eight years in office.

Calling himself a progressive. Bond said he’s concerned about “the politics of individualism” as more people are concerned only about themselves and not the community’s general welfare.

“Arkansas has viewed itself as 49th and 50th. That’s not how it should be. Should we accept stagnant growth? That’s my challenge — to do better,” he said.

TOP STORY>> Aquatic center grand opening delayed one week

By RICK KRON
Leader staff writer

The opening of Jacksonville’s $2.5 million aquatic park has been delayed a week.

The original Memorial Day weekend opening has been shifted to noon, Saturday, June 4.

The main reason? No slides yet.

“They’re in transport,” said Annabelle Davis, with the Parks and Recreation Department. “Besides that, we’ve got just some bits and pieces yet to do.”

The infrastructure for the slides is in, so it won’t take long to install them. The aquatic manager, Dianne Novotny, said, “The baby pool looks great, the lap pool water is still a little cloudy, but everything is just about ready to go, except the slides.”

The ribbon cutting for the three-pool facility, located on Martin and First streets, will be at 4 p.m., Friday, June 3, followed by an open house until 6 p.m. “there’ll be no swimming during the open house, but it’ll give residents a chance to tour the facility,” Davis said.

Fees for the new water park are higher than those for the community center pool, but the hours of availability and variety of activities are so much greater, according to Novotny.

Daily fees will be $4 for anyone over the age of two. A 20-visit pass will be available for $60. An individual season pass will be $75, while a family pass (up to four members) will be $150.

To use the plunge pool, which contains the slides, will cost an extra $1 a day. Visitors must be at least 48 inches or taller to use the slides. Groundbreaking for the three-pool aquatic park was July 6, 2003. The water park replaces the Martin Street pool, which slowly became a health and safety hazard after about 30 years of use.

The exterior work was substantially completed earlier this year and the crews have been focusing on interior work and final touches since.

Some of that final touch work was the reason the lap pool water was cloudy Monday. It was caused by water run off from some of the construction work.

With the construction, residents only had use of the indoor pool at the community center, and based on end of the year reports, the pool stayed busy in 2004.

Pool parties at the community center were up 10 percent, and pool party revenue was up 20 percent.

Swim lessons were so popular that more instructors were added to keep up with the demand, according to Novotny. Overall, there was a 60 percent increase in the number of participants.

Three swim teams use the Community Center pool for practice and meets: The Arkansas Dolphins, the Cabot Piranhas and the Jacksonville High School swim team.

Some of that activity will paddle over to the new park when it opens.

Davis expects the new park will become a popular recreation destination for residents and visitors from the surrounding area.

The facility will feature a three-foot-deep plunge pool with water slides and zero-depth entrance; a two-foot-deep play pool complete with shade areas, play structures, a “rain shower” area; also, a deeper diving and swimming pool with painted lanes, hydrotherapy seating and ramp access.

Other site features will include an entry area, shaded party area, a concession stand with tables, offices and a lifeguard training and rest area.

The $2.6 million park is funded in part by a voter approved one-cent sales tax increase.

That will also help fund construction of a $14 million joint education center with the Air Force, moving college level courses currently offered on base to the off base facility. The city has pledged $5 million, with the Air Force awaiting funding for the rest through Congress. The tax will also fund a $2 million fire and police training center to be located on part of the former Vertac site.

Getting the project started was more difficult than getting voter approval for the tax increase. An original cost estimate of $2.1 million for the park turned out to be more than 20 percent below the low construction bid of $2.78 million due to increases in the cost of steel among other issues.

The city’s parks commission then whittled some amenities off the project, bringing the price tag down to $2.6 million.

From there, a court ruling on an unrelated tax case unlocked thousands of dollars for cities in Pulaski County, including Jacksonville, which covered the rest of the project’s cost.

TOP STORY>> Cabot group seeks ways to pay for sewer plant

IN SHORT: Disbanded commission meets to discuss options that would lessen the impact of rate increases on senior citizens.

By JOAN MCCOY
Leader staff writer

The group formerly known as the Cabot Public Utilities Commission met Monday to discuss raising sewer rates to pay for a much-needed sewer treatment plant.

The current plant is out of compliance with both state and federal standards and is not expected to pass a June inspection.
The city could be fined about $10,000 for its non-compliance.

The group, which now has no official standing in the city and whose members are referring to themselves somewhat jokingly as “seven concerned citizens,” will recommend increases over the next three years that will more than double sewer rates for most customers but will only raise the rates 60 cents a month for customers who use 2,000 gallons or less.

The four former members who attended the meeting Monday are not in favor of a flat surcharge added to every bill to pay for a $16.5 million plant or any combination of a surcharge and rate increase, because both would significantly raise rates for senior citizens, a situation everyone involved with the issue is trying to avoid.

If the council approves of the rate increase as proposed by the former commission, rates for customers who use an average of 7,000 gallons a month would go up this year from $12.95 a month to $25.70 a month, a 98 percent increase. In 2006 that same bill would increase an additional 15 percent to $29.45. In 2007 it would go up another 18 percent to $34.70.

City Finance Director Dale Walker, working with bond attorney Jack Truemper with Stephens Inc., ran the numbers the former commission will recommend to the council when it meets in special session probably in early June.

Mayor Stubby Stum-baugh, who will call the meeting when he finds a convenient date, will likely appoint three of seven former commissioners to the new Water and Wastewater Com-mission that was created by ordinance last week to replace the Public Utilities Commission, which was essentially without power to run the water and sewer departments as it was expected to do.

Attending the Monday meeting were chairman J.M. Park, vice chairman Don Keesee, Bill Cypert and Bob Jackson.

Not attending were Doyne Plummer, David Hicks and Don Tripp. Of those three, Plummer has moved outside the city limits and is assumed ineligible to serve and Tripp has told the mayor he doesn’t want to be appointed to the new commission.

The members of the former commission were appointed by the city council.

The new commission is of the type allowed by state law. When it takes full control in January, it will be autonomous, with power over the department’s finances, equipment and personnel. Its members are appointed by the mayor and approved by the council.

Stumbaugh isn’t saying which of the five who are eligible and willing to serve will be appointed, though it is common knowledge that the ordinance creating the new commission has a January startup date at the request of Park, who said he would not serve otherwise.

The former commission unanimously favored paying for the new plant by continuing the city’s one-cent sales tax that was passed in 1999 to pay for water improvements.

The mayor and several on the council are opposed to paying for utilities with a sales tax since utilities are supposed to be self supporting and the tax money is needed elsewhere.

But the tax is not a dead issue. Supporters for continuing the tax have the option of forcing the council by referendum to call for an election to let voters decide if they want to continue the tax or raise sewer rates.

“I’ve heard it’s coming,” the city finance director said of the rumor that is circulating about a petition calling for an election.

“I don’t know who’s doing it, but I’ve heard it’s coming. It should be an interesting (June council) meeting,” Walker added.

TOP STORY>> LRAFB biggest AF winner

IN SHORT: The base would see the most gains in the Air Force if the closure list is upheld and Bush and Congress sign off on it.

By JOHN HOFHEIMER
Leader staff writer

Advocates for many bases chosen for closure will take their cases to the Base Relocation and Closure (BRAC) Commission over the next four months, but if they fail, Little Rock Air Force Base will realize the full growth detailed in the Defense Department recommendations.

Tentatively selected to get about 3,900 new jobs, the Jacksonville air base is slated to have the ninth largest gain in personnel of all bases — and the largest gain among all Air Force bases.

The recommendations calls for increasing the number of jobs at the base 7,166 to 11,064, most of them military jobs.
The only installations making larger gains all are Army bases.

Those bases expecting larger gains in personnel than Little Rock are:
- Fort Belvoir, Va., 11,858
- Fort Bliss, Texas, 11,501
- Fort Benning, Ga., 9,839
- Fort Sam Houston, Texas, 9,364
- Fort Lee, Va., 7,344
- Fort Meade, Md., 5,361
- Fort Carson, Colo., 4,377
- Fort Bragg, N. C., 4,325

In earlier rounds of base closings, about 85 percent of the Defense Department’s recommendations have been approved.
The BRAC Commission has nine members, and it takes only a simple majority—five—to remove a base from the closure list, but seven commissioners to add a base to the list.

The purpose of BRAC is to make the most efficient and effective use of all the Department of Defense’s resources.

Commission president Anthony Prin-cipi has said he expects changes to be made and that the commission would hold 16 hearing around the country between early June and the end of July, according to

CLASSIFIEDS>> May 25, 2005

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE LEADER'S CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to The Leader Classifieds, P.O. Box 766, Jacksonville AR, 72078. Deadline to advertise in Wednesday issue is 5pm Friday: and 5 p.m. Thursday for the Weekend issue.


SERVICES

HOUSECLEANING Great rates, free estimates. Commercial and residential. Call Wanda at 501-416-7307. 6/01

ODDS AND ENDS HANDYMAN SERVICE All kinds of house repairs. Free estimates. No service charge, fully insured. Call 501-606-1048 or 501-240-7061.

NEED SOMEONE to come and clean yor house that is a mature woman, very trustworthy and dependable? References available. Please call Vicki Brooks, 501-241-0572 or 501-541-0225. 6/01

IN-HOME CHILDCARE flexible hours, meals, dependable with over 35 years exp. Jacksonville 501-985-3678. 5/25

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE pruning, topping, removal. Call James Arnette 501-960-0926. 6/29


YARD SALES

YARD SALE: Furniture, tools, misc., May 27 and 28, 21 Bell Aire Drive, Cabot, Cancel if rains.

HUGE SALE! White elephant/rummage sale. Will be held at The Worship Center, Hwy. 89 in Cabot, Sat., June 4, 8 a.m. to noon, Most booths inside, carwash outside, congregational effort to raise funds needed. all profit to assist with nursery, children’s church and youth activities.
estate sale: 5610 Jim Hall Rd., May 27 & 28, 8 am - 5 pm. Call 834-8525 for more info.

YARD SALE: Everything must go! 146 Illinois Drive, Little Rock Air Force Base, Sat. May 28, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. 501-596-0012.

LARGE FAMILY yard sale: Friday, May 27 and Sat., May 28. Something for everyone! 6300 Hwy. 321 East, Austin.

moving sale: Furniture, knick knacks, chairs, desk, TV, green colored picture, previous owner, Madre Hill. Other good stuff. 4208 Maddox Rd., Jacksonville. May 19 - 27.


HELP WANTED

JACKSONVILLE-AREA, PT OR FT, Legal assistant in a busy law office, Microsoft Word skills necesssary. Fax resume to 501-982-9414.

EXPERIENCED PHONE COLLECTOR for attorney’s office. 35 hrs. per week, hours will vary. $10 per hour plus commission. Fax resume to 501-882-9901.5/25

OLAN MILLS is hiring photographers and sales people. Part time & full time. No photography experience necessary. Call Dixie, 1-800-249-4555, ext. 7271. 6/01

DENTAL ASSISTANT, registered, to work front and back office 3 to 4 days a week. 982-9476 or fax resume to 982-2621. 6/01

CARPENTER/SUB CONTRACTOR needed for small construction company. Must have remodeling experience, a dependable vehicle, hand tools and verifiable references. Most work will be in Cabot/Jacksonville/NLR/Lonoke areas. Call Mr. Honey Do. 501-676-5010. 5/25

SMALL CONSTRUCTION company needs a clean cut, hard working energetic person in a laborer position. Applicant MUST have a contact phone, valid drivers license and dependable transportation to and from work. Starting pay $8 to $9 per hour depending on experience, attitude and desire to work. Hard work and heavy lifting required. Working conditions are mostly outside, hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Will train the right person.Call Mr. Honey Do, 501-676-5010. 5/25

KIDDIELAND NAZARENE DAYCARE in jax is looking for a mature dependable teacher. A person who loves children and is willing to work flexible hours. For more information, contact Wanda or Carol Riddle. 982-5271.

2 COSMOTOLOGISTS needed, booth rental, Jax. 985-1879 or 843-2909. 5/28

LAB/XRAY person needed for busy Family Practice Clinic. Please fax resume to Carmen at 501-843-5700.

PT SALES customer service position in busy office, comp. experience required, fax resume to 501-882-2880.

DEPENDABLE CHILDCARE in my Cabot home. Child must be potty trained. $100/week. Have references, meals and snacks provided. After school care available. Call Samantha at 501-516-5012.

janitorial! Dow Building Services has several part-time (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Mon thru Fri) postitions available in the Cabot area. Top pay and medical insurance. Background check will be required. Call 1-800-791-2902, for appointment. Mon - Fri: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT center looking for loveing caregivers who will promote a learning environment for young children. If you are a team player, hardworker, patient, loveing, dependable and enjoy working with children in a fun environment, please call 501-985-2715. Immediate full time position available.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT center looking for loveing caregivers who will promote a learning environment for young children. If you are a team player, hardworker, patient, loveing, dependable and enjoy working with children in a fun environment, please call 501-605-9228. Immediate full time position available.

LAWN CARE/ASSISTANT CREW LEADER Dow Building Services has an opening for a Lawn Care/Assistant Crew Leader with experience in mowing, edging and weedeating. Some weekend work required. Must have good driving record. Background check required. We offer medical insurance, vacation, sick leave, and retirement plan. Apply at 4320 E. 43rd, NLR. Mon-Fri 10:am-6:00 pm.

janitorial! Dow Building Services has several part-time (evening hours ) postitions available in the Little Rock area. Top pay and medical insurance. Background check will be required. Apply at 4320 E. 43rd, NLR. Mon-Fri 10:am-6:00 pm.

Janitorial! Dow Full -time postitions (evening hours ) available in the Conway area. Top pay and medical insurance. Background check will be required. Dow Building Services Call 1-800-791-2902 or 501-791-2900. Mon-Fri 10:00 AM 6 PM.
janitorial! Several part-time postitions (after 5:00 PM) in the Cabot, Carlisle and Conway areas. Top pay and medical insurance. Background check will be required. Dow Building Services Call 1-800-791-2902 or 501-791-2900. Mon-Fri 10:00 AM 6 PM. 5/25

Janitorial FLOORmAN Dow Building Services has immediate openings for floormen experienced in stripping, waxing, & buffing. Company truck and equipment provided. Full time evenings. Health insurance and vacation. Must have a valid driver’s license. Background check will be required. Apply at 4320 E. 43rd, NLR. Mon-Fri 10:am-6:00 pm.


FURNITURE & APPLIANCES

for sale: Couch, loveseat, occassional chair and ottoman, brtown w/animal print. $200. Call 988-2903. 5/25

FULL SIZE BEDROOM set: girls bed, night stand, dresser with mirror, $60. 941-7774. 6/4

for sale: Child’s all wood play set, blue cupboard, wood sink with wood table, great condition, $25 941-3922. 6/8

for sale: 7 ft. tan couch, exc. shape, $150 OBO. Free refrigerator. LaZ-Boy recliner, $75 OBO. U-load, U-haul! Call 501-749-7478. 5/25

GAS DRYER: Heavy duty, Frigidaire, works, $25. 882-2142. 6/8

for sale: 7 ft. tan couch, exc. shape, $150 OBO. Free refrigerator. LaZ-Boy recliner, $75 OBO. U-load, U-haul! Call 501-749-7478. 5/25

HEAVY DUTY WASHER and dryer, good condition, $250, 20 cubic ft. fridge with ice maker, $200. 501-982-4115. 6/8

MOVING. MUST SELL: TV, too heavy for mom to move, on swivel stand, Colortrak, RCA, great picture, $150. 501-305-1130, Cabot. 6/4

Dining room table w/3 chairs & bench, light colored solid wood, $175. Call 985-7686. 5/25

dresser: 9 drawers, w/mirror and matching chest, solid wood, good cond., $150. Call 843-5980. 5/25

for sale: Long glass top coffee table, $40. 882-3171. 5/25

for sale: Jenny Linde crib and mattress, $70. Changing table, $30; toddler carseat, $25; stroller, $25; swing, $20. 605-2157. 5/25

30” ELECTRIC range, $95. Queen sized mattress set, $125. Twin size futon, $60. 501-988-4094. 6/01

WHITE mAYTAG washer and dryer. Electric, heavy duty, $100 each. Real good shape. 843-3817. 6/01
TWIN SIZE bed with trundle, excellent condition, plus bedding, $150. Couch and love seat, blue checks, both w/end recliners, $200 cash. Small loveseat, $50. 843-3763. 6/01

CANOPY DAYBED with trundle, 2 new mattresses, linens, comforter, pillows, $300. 22 CF refrigerator, w/freezer, oversized ice maker, excellent condition. $300. 590-2695. 6/01

CHERRYWOOD coffee table, end tables, $150. Green recliner w/massage, $60. 55 gal. aquarium, w/acc., black stand, $250. 985-3533. 6/01

1.1 CU. FT. GE microwave with stand. $50 OBO. Excellent condition. 940-4701. 6/01

QUEEN HEADBOARD, $30. Iron bench, $50, Lazy boy, $65 OBO. 749-7478. 6/01

CHERRYWOOD dining table w 2 leaves, 6 chairs, seats upholstered. 1 yr. old, pd. $1,200, asking $500, 982-9004.6/01

WASHER, $50. Sofa/recliner w matching relciner, $300 both. retail shelving and racks, 2 lighted jewelry display cases, $100 each. 605-8682. 6/01

GE UPRIGHT freezer. White, 19.1 Cu. Ft. Works good, looks nice. $100. 676-5220. 6/01

2 OAK end tables, $15 each or free with purchase of lg. extra comfy sage/khaki cotton twill down alt. sofa. New with Scotchguard. $150. 749-7478. 6/01

6 DRAWER dresser with mirror, 2 drawer matching nightstand, $125. White French Provencial secretary desk, $75. 843-9761. 6/01

for sale: LaZ-Boy sofa, burgundy, green and cream stripes, fair cond. $50. Coors double pool table light, $50. Call 676-5994. 5/25

for sale: 2 blue swivel rockers, 1 matching ottoman, $150. 1 blue tone Bassett loveseat, $150. Call 843-5518. 5/25

for sale: King size mattress and box spring and frame, $150. Call 259-8740 or 882-2287. 5/25

for sale: Oak roll top computer desk, bookshelves, entertainment center, good cond. Call 749-2047. 5/25

washer: Whirlpool heavy duty, almond, works good, looks good, $75. Call 676-5220. 5/25

for sale: Posture Perfect twin size mattress and box spring, new, $85. Call 982-1097. 5/25

Dining Room Table Set; Pennsylvania House; Server buffet, 6 chairs, solid oak $675 Cabot 501-843-6705. 6/01

bedroom suite: 5 pc. set, exc. cond., oak color, $400. Call 501-407-0815. 5/25

for sale: Matching sofa and loveseat, earth tones, $175; microwave stand, $15; exc. cond. Call 843-2177 after 4:30. Call 843-2177. 5/25

dining table: 1920’s Duncan Phife, no chairs, $125. Call 941-5951. 5/25

for sale: Coffee table w/matching end tables, matching love seat & couch, entertainment center, kitchen table, few more items. Call 259-1055. 5/25

Desk - sturdy, solid wood. Great for homework/computer. Three drawers each side, one center drawer. Needs TLC but must see to appreciate. $25. Leave message day or night 843-1145. 5/25

DINING ROOM table and 5 chairs, $75. Tall entertainment center, $40. 501-743-9198. 5/25


LOST & FOUND

FOUND: FULL blooded Chihuahua, black. Call to identify. 501-239-0056. 6/01

LOST 2 MALE toy pomeranians. Red colored. Beebe. 5/9/05 Reward. 501-41-8798. 5/25

FOUND Redbone hound, female. Call 501-726-3700. 5/25

found sunday, small reddish brown dog on Military Rd. Call to describe/identify. 241-2379. 5/25


MISCELLANEOUS

WURLITZER Spinnet Piano with bench for sale, good condition, $500. 501-454-5336. 6/4

COLEMAN TENT: 10x13, used very little, full size back and front doors, large windows on sides, $95 501-843-5376. 5/25

WHITE WEDDING GOWN: size 6 with matching veil, $300 941-7774. 6/4

AM/FM CONSOLE stereo with 8 track player and record player, works great, might need needle, comes with over 100 records and 8 track tapes, $350 OBO. 501-259-8740 or 501-882-2287. 6/4

CRAFTSMAN 12” BAND saw: $150, Craftsman contractor series, 20” scroll saw with stand, $150, 501-843-0615. 6/8

LARGE IGLOO DOG house: excellent condition, $27, Graco baby walker, excellent condition, $12; Jensen AM/FM CD/cass., 1.5 DIN, $75 FIRM, 501-982-2201. 6/8

portable building: 12x20, currently used as a beauty shop. Has bathroom, A/C, water heater, everything inside is newly built/installed. $6,500 OBO. Call 870-552-7905. 5/25

MEN, WOMEN and CHILDREN’s quality clothing. 1/2 price sale every day. Courtesy Consignments, 123 S. Bailey Blvd. (1/2 block off Main St.) 241-0970. 6/8

new comode chair 1500 Body Beggy, used 2 times, $10; stroller, $5; 80 large padded plastic mens diapers. Call 988-2763. 5/25

work boots: Steel toe, exc. cond., $30 OBO. Call Marion at 982-6509. 5/25

hoG fans! Go Hogs Go! Pair of size 7 Hog shoes, $35 OBO, new in box. Call 882-2142. 5/25

GRAPHIC ART station complete with juke box music system. All graphic arts software and over 2,000 songs of great variety. Free delivery and setup. $1,300. (501) 676-7735. 6/01

butane tank: 500 gal., $550. Call 988-9969. 5/25

JOE WEIDER complete exercise equipment. 2 benches and all weights, you move! $150. 743-9198. 5/25

for sale: Iris’ $1 ea., Buy 2, get 1 FREE. Chrysanthemums, $1 ea. Call 985-1388. 5/25

Frazer speakers: $40 firm. Call 982-2201. 5/25

for sale: Samsung microwave, large fruit jars. CAll 982-1192. 5/25

IRIES, SPIDER plants, suprise lillies. Leave message. 541-4717. 6/04

clothes: Boys size 14, name brands, $3 & up. Call 501-407-0815. 5/25

single crypt: Original price, $2950, will sell for $2300. Includes transfer fee & new front. Located at Chapel Hill Memorial Park, Jacksonville. Call 753-7935. 5/25

BEDSPREAD, PILLOW shams, king size, clean, just like new, $75. 501-837-1554. 5/25

GIRLS TRAINING bike w/training wheels, hardly ridden. $50. 985-3407. 6/01

SCHWINN BICYCLE built for two, old. Good condition, needs tires, $200. 501-882-3817. 6/01

WHEELCHAIR, $25 Also, Sears heavy duty washer and dryer set, grey. $175. 843-7662. 6/01

GOLF CLUBS, King Cobra graphite. sr. flex. Cobra bag, all excellent condition.882-7760. 6/01

OMNICHORD, never needs tuned, easy to play. $225. 843-3270. 6/01

GOLF CLUBS, men’s and ladies complete sets. Woods, irons, bags. Pull golf carts. 941-7795. 6/01

DELTA TOOLS 10 in. bench saw, bench sander, grinder, industrial paint sprayer, router. All slightly used. 843-9197. 6/01

E-MACHINE COMPUTER, brand new scanner and printer. Has large computer desk/workstation. $1,300 for all. 941-1924. 6/01

DISNEY BOOKS, whole collection, great for collector, $25 for the whole box. (501) 882-2142. 6/01

WEDDING DRESS slip included, size 20W, ivory color, short sleeves made of lace. Dress has pearls, lace and satin. Tea length in front, swoops to floor in back. $75. 501-882-3448 or (501) 827-3015. 5/25

FOR SALE Lace, different widths, many colors, 10¢ -15¢ per yard. Zippers, many sizes and different colors. 10¢-15¢. 982-5422. 6/01

12x16 BUILDING, wired, on skids, 7 plugins, 6 verhead lights, sealed inside, painted, brand new, $1,800. 501-794-0353. 6/01

CERAMIC DOLL collection, buy 1 or all. 983-1445. 6/01

MOTORCYCLE HELMET, dark red, best offer. 920-9691. 6/01

MEN, WOMEN and children’s quality clothing, 1/2 price sale every day. Courtesy Consignments, 123 S. Bailey Blvd. (1/2 block off Main St.) 241-0970. 6/15

BOX OF girls summer clothes, sizes 12-14. Starting at $1 each. 843-3763. 6/01

HAND APPLIQUED quilt tops for sale. 501-882-3771. 6/01

FOR SALE: Wheeled golf travel bag, asking $25.00.  Never Used.  Call afternoons. 988-1889. 5/28


LAWN EQUIPMENT AND FARM

riding mower Yard Machine by MTD, 12 1/2 HP, overhead valve engine, 38” cut, exc. cond., $350. Call 843-4488. 5/25

For sale: Murry push mower, 22 in., 3.75 h.p., good condition, $50. Also, WANTED non-running push mowers. 843-5376. 6/01

Murray Riding Mower. Grass bagger included. About 3 years old. Call after 5:30 pm. 501-941-7829. 6/01

free hay! You cut, bale and haul. Call 988-1620. 5/25

2 TRACTOR tires, new, rims included & mounted, fits Ford tractor. $125 eac, cash. (501) 726-3788. 6/01

LOWES 14 HP. 42” cut riding lawn mower, $400 firm. 843-0542. 6/01

SIDE DELIVERY hay rake, 3 pt. hitch, $200. 501-993-0253. 6/01

sears garden tiller 3 1/2 HP, $125. Call 416-3071. 5/25

FORD 8N w/ bushhog, $2,000. 843-2543. 6/01
hay is ready! If you need square bales or round bales or wrapped for outside, call 843-5939 or 454-7398. 5/25

CRAFTSMAN 6.5 HP chipper shredder vacuum. Self-propelled. $300, used twice. (501) 843-6617. 5/25

lawn boy mower: 36” cut, self propelled, mulching blade, 4.5 hp motor, $100. good cond. 843-3817. 5/25

craftsman push mower: Mulches, key start, rear bag. 743-6556. 5/25

for sale: 20’ Beachcomber pontoon w/50 hp Suzuki 4-cycle, trailer, cover, live-well, exteneded warranty. Less than 40 hrs. $12,000 OBO. 501-556-4596. 5/25


ANIMALS, PETS, & SUPPLIES

horse for sale: 7 yr. old broke & bred, registered paint mare, $850. 2 yr. old Missouri Fox Trotter, no papers, white Roan mare, grain broke, but very gentle, $900. 501-605-0098 or 501-259-0318 5/25

FREE WALKER Deer dog to good home. Spayed, all shots current, for more info, call 501-835-8030. 6/01

free to good home: 2 adult cats, both male. 1 gray and white, 1 brown and white. Serious inquiries only. 501-835-6472. 6/01

free to good home: Cute & fuzzy kittens, 605-0470. 5/25

free to good home: Puppies and their mom. Mom is yellow Lab. All friendly & playful, great outside dogs. Call Bruce Roe, 516-6706, Des Arc. 5/25

for sale Ferret cage w/all accessories. Must sell! $100 OBO. Call 259-5325. 5/25

FREE KITTENS. Beautiful colors. 941-8613. 5/25

free kittens: Born 4/1, male and female, different colors, have been wormed. Call 501-743-6096 after 5 pm. 5/25

COCKATIEL CAGE with stand, $35. Parakeet cage, $10. 843-3763. 6/01

PUPPIES - Giving away to good homes. 4 females, 3 male. Call Wendy Spencer. 501-941-8402. 6/01

for FREE TO good loving home, many kittens, different ages and sizes. Healthy. 241-9026. 6/01

TWO ROOSTERS, $2 each, 1 guinea, $5, 2 mallard ducks, $6 ea. 843-3270. 6/01

FREE FLUFFY black persian kittens. 988-5390. 6/01

rabbit-rex: Female w/accessories. Free to good home. Call 988-5561. 5/25

3 cockatiels w/cage, $50 ea. Call 501-563-4038. 5/25


VEHICLES & ACCESSORIES

1993 mustang LX: Convertible, white, black top, $2100. Call 843-5001. 5/25

12 INCH, 4.80 4-hole utility or boat trailer tire, brand new, never used, $35; also have 5-hole, 12 inch, tires, $30 each. 501-843-5376. 6/4

2000 yamaha bear Tracker, 250 cc, $1,200, 626-9577 or 726-9305. 6/4

1991 FORD RANGER: with front end damage on passenger side, motor in good shape, $400. 626-9577 or 726-9305. 6/4

1988 ford tempo 5 speed, good transmission, needs motor. $200. Call 259-8740 or 882-2287. 5/25

jensen AM/FM/CD/
Cass., 1.5 DIN. $75 firm. Call 982-2201. 5/25

1970 jeep jeepster Commando, 4WD, V-6, heavy duty wench, $2500. Call 676-7165. 5/25

full cowboy sleeper for full size PU, $300. Call 590-0887. 5/25

1990 Chrysler Lebaron, non running, $500. Call 985-3076. 5/25

1989 ford F-150 LWB, 6 cyl., new tires, good cond. $2250 OBO. See at 1603 W. Iowa St., Beebe. Call 882-3415. 5/25

motorcycle parts: Honda Spirit, 2000/2001, exhaust pipes, chrome, $175 OBO for both. Call 882-2142., 5/25

1990 nisan sentra Less than 100 miles on engine, new clutch, AC works, 5 speed, 2 door. $1800 OBO. Call 882-2142. 5/25

1986 ford F-150: PU truck. Call 870-674-4727. 5/25

1988 chevy PU: Runs good, $1500. Call 563-0188. 5/25

2003 honda 400 EX 4-wheeler, DG Nerf bars, bumpers, low miles, orig. tires, $2950. Call 983-8025. 5/25

1991 pontiac Grand Am rebuilt eng, new starter, batt.$1600 OBO, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 14,000 miles, like new, $13,500 OBO. Tony 501-231-8737. 6/01

1993 town car: 143K miles, many new parts, $2850. Call 416-3071. 5/25

1988 delta Olds: Runs good, one owner, exc. interior, great body, $1200. Call 563-5629. 5/25

1998 cHEvy silverado Ext. cab, 110K miles, very good cond. $10,500. Call 256-2288. 5/25

1998 chrysler sebring parting out, $1,000 for whole car. 1994 Ford Aerostar, good cargo van, runs good, $800 OBO. Call 882-0837. 5/25

HOMEMADE TOW boom and sling. No winch or cable. $150 firm. 529-0913 6/01

SET OF 4 chrome wheels and tires, 16”, 6 hole, $500. Se of ICW racing wheels and tires, 16”, 4 hole, 55 gal. fish tank w/oak trim and oak cabinet stand, $200 OBO. 501-259-4806. 6/01

1978 DODGE pickup 3/4 ton, bad head gasket, body beat up. $150 cash. 529-0913. 6/01

16” wheels & tries: center caps & lugnuts, 90 model Ford & up, $250. Call 843-2251. 5/25

1988 LINCOLN Towncar, signature series, 198K miles, $1,300 OBO. 501-412-3339. 6/01

1995 FORD Explorer Limited. White, greay leather interior, 4 door, new tires. Runs great, all options, all power. $4,500. 835-8534. 6/01

1990 LINCOLN TOWNCAR, gold w/cream leather interior. Garage kept, 155K miles, sharp car, excellent condition, $3,500. Hazen. 870-255-3642. 6/01

1995 DODGE Dakota SLT, extended cab, V-8 automatic, $1,000.288-0946 or 288-0484. 6/01

1968 FORD MUSTANG, 289 motor, auto with B&M shift kit, 90% restored, must sell, going overseas, $7,000 OBO. 501-941-5896 or 501-259-0441. 6/01

2003 FORD EXPLORER Limited. Pearl white, sunroof, Loaded. 39K, $19,500. 501-920-5203. 6/01

1985 FORD ECONOLINE van. New motor, 6ply tires, excellent condition inside and out. $4,500.6/01

1989 CHEVY S-10 4x4 Blazer. Black, 4 dr, has 171K plus miles, great body runs good, cold AC, needs small repairs. Asking $2,200. 241-1862. 6/01

TOYOTA SPARE parts, left fender, grill, front drive shaft fits 1981 4x4 Toyota, $100. 983-1445. 6/01

1995 MAZDA MX-6 red, 5 speed, bod kit, 17 in. tires, good condition. $3,695 OBO. 501-771-5039. 6/01

20 16” TIRES for sale, used. 870-552-3025. 6/01

1985 GMC High Sierra 1500 truck. Looks good, runs good, have all reciepts of work done. $3,200, OBO. 501-985-9763. 6/01

1994 PONTIAC Sunbird, convertible V-6. New transmission, teal blue with white top. $2,500 firm. 501-749-3959. 6/01

1997 FORD F150-XL extended cab, 4.2 liter, 6 cylinder, looks and runs great. $6,700. 941-1865. 6/01

cast aluminum 15” Jeep Cherokee rim and tire, $60. Call 882-6582. 5/25

1977 CADILLAC, 4 door sedan, runs, $700 OBO, 501-982-8844. 5/25

1997 CHEVY LUMINA, 1 owner, like new inside and out, new tires, 4 door, 21,245 miles, power windows, $5,000 firm. Serious inquiries only. 501-541-0815. 5/25


RECREATIONAL
650 Kawasaki jet ski, w/traier. Runsa good and will trade for riding lawn mower. Call 516-7255 5/25

1977 CLASS C Coachman motor home, air and generator, 3.5K, 24 foot long. 501-425-3231. 6/4

1989 layton 8X37 feet, 2 bedroom, fully self-contained, nice camper, $6,500. 501-351-0955. 6/8

2000 SUZUKI motorcycle 800 intruder. Black metallic w/lots of extras. $4,250. 941-1303. 6/01

1996 NITRO Bass speed boat with trailer, Tracker 120 outboard motor, depth finder. Great condition. $6,500 firm. 501-350-8475. 6/01

4-wheeler 2002 polaris scrambler 90. Automatic, electric start, low hours in perfect shape. A great starter for your child. $1,100 firm. Leave message at (501) 676-6866. 6/01

1996 Skyline 22' fifth wheel, garaged, ex. condition. $5,800. 501 676-7130, or cell 765-1588. 5/28

Party Barge, 1988 Grumman 24 ft, 60 hp Johnson, depth finder, am/fm cassette, with trailer. $3,000. 501-825-8126 or 982-9056. 6/01

4-wheeler 2002 polaris scrambler 90. Automatic, electric start, low hours in perfect shape. A great starter for your child. $1,100 firm. Leave message at (501) 676-6866. 5/28

14FT ALUMINUM boat, $300 OBO. 982-8844 5/25


WANTED

wanted to buy rice slicks & crawfish. Call 870-499-7368. 5/25

WANTED TO BUY: Roller pigeons, any color, call 501-843-5381 or 501-772-3540. 6/4

WANTED: Small female, around 3 years old, lap dog, spayed and shots to date, 501-843-2385. 6/8


REAL ESTATE

why rent? No bank qualifying loan application. 10% down MOVES YOU IN 1600 square foot 2 BR, 2 1/2 BA townhouse on North Hills CC. Full tax deductions of homeownership. Only $659/mo. + association dues. CALL (214) 837-6188. 5/28

FSBO - MUST SEE. 3 BDRM/2 ba. 1,550 sq. ft., wood floors. extensive crown moulding, a Claude Irvan built home, 42 Nevada Lane. Cabot. Call 259-1522. 6/04

BEAUTIFUL WESTHAVEN S/D in Cabot – 3 BR, 2 bath, greatroom, c/trey ceiling crown moulding, large fenced back yard. $109, 900. Linda Ferstl, MacKay & Co. 501-529-1439. 6/01

FOR SALE: Time share, Apt. A-10, Sunbay, Hot Springs, AR., week 23, June 10-17. @ BR, 2 BA, LR, DR, full kitchen, washer, dryer, $5,000. 501-241-6813. 6/01

REDUCED $10,000 for quick sale. Custom built contemporary, 2,000 sq. ft., 3 bedroom/office/2bath, hardwood and tile, 12 foot ceilings, open floorplan, cul-de-sac in great subdivision, children’s treehouse, shady large yard, $169,999. Call 605-3027 to view. #16 Paradise Cove, Crestwood Estates, Cabot. Open house Saturday & Sunday. 2:00-5:00. 5/28

6 ACRES within Cabot city limits. Cabot City utilities, paved street. Day phone 416-3551. Nights 843-5544.

LAND FOR sale-1 acre, ready for mobile home or build. Bowen Rd., in Furlow area. For more info call 501-236-2231 or 501-259-4550.

VILONIA, 3 ACRES with big, beautiful trees and view. Small down, owner financing. Call 501-412-7070 or 501-412-5000. 6/15

WERE YOU PROMISED steak and all you got was BULL-ongy? We have houses, financing and refinancing available. All we need is YOU... Freedom Note Liquidation. 501-843-6685.

FSBO BEAUTIFUL home w/view. Austin/Cabot area near town, 2,800 sq. ft. located on 3 wooded acres. Attached garage. 3BR, 3FB, FP. 3 decks, 1 covered. $249,500. For appointment, call 843-5902.
GOOD NEWS! We can find you a home, Guaranteed! Sometimes bad things happen to good people. Bankruptcy, foreclosures, tax liens or bad credit. Let us help you find your new home. Freedom Note Liquidation. 501-843-6685.


COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

COMMERCIAL LOT for sale on busy Hwy. 367 N. in Judsonia. 230X264 w/2 buildings, all city utilities. Cll 501-729-3592.

COMMERCIAL RENTAL SPACE available. Dude’s Place in ward - Serious inquiries only! Perfect for beautician or barber shop. Call 501-743-0003 or 743-8427. 5/25


RENTALS

JAX 1 & 2 bdr. apt., utilities paid $425 & $450 mo. $250 deposit. 501-612-5520 or 982-7544.
Jacksonv Square 1 & 2 bdr. 501-612-5583. 6/1

JACKSONVILLE: 2 bedroom, 1 bath duplex on dead end street. $425 a month. Call 501-43-0003 or 743-8427. 5/28

MOBILE HOME lot, private fenced, in Jacksonville, All city utilities available. $150/mo. 982-2003 or 993-3278. 6/15

FOR RENT: 3 bdrm mobile home, 31 North. 2BA on 1 acre. $500/month., $500 deposit. 501-676-0830. 5/25

HOUSE IN CABOT 3 bedroom/2 bath, large yard. 27 Pond St. $875/month. Call 425-9200. 5/28

FOR RENT OR SALE: Stonewall 107 Amherst. 3 BR, 2 BA. $975 month rent, $750 dep.; year lease OR $125,000. 1,777 sq. ft. LR and den w/FP. Large deck & fenced yard. Call 951-1304. 5/28

Oakwood Apartments Jacksonville, AR 1310 Smithwick Drive 2 blocks from the main gate. Spring Special: 1/2 off deposit for all One Bedrooms, pets allowed, king size pool, furnished/unfurnished call 501-982-9563. Also 2 Bedroom flats & Townhouses. 5/28

Oakwood Apartments Jacksonville, AR 1310 Smithwick Drive 2 blocks from the main gate. Spring Special: 1/2 off deposit for all One Bedrooms, pets allowed, king size pool, furnished/unfurnished call 501-982-9563. Also 2 Bedroom flats & Townhouses. 5/28

2 BEDROOM, 1 bath moble home HUD approved, $450 month, elderly encouraged to apply. Call 501-743-0003 or 743-8427. 5/28

2 BDRM. 1 BATH house on one acre, $425/month. 501-743-0003 or 743-8427. 5/28

CABOT OFFICE suite for rent. Prime location FREE utilities FREE Internet access, month to month lease, $300 per month. Call 501-259-8958. 6/08

VERY CLEAN 2 and 3 bedroom manf. homes, $200 deposit, no pets, on-site managers, country setting with city services. Homes in Cabot and Beebe schools. Call 501-982-9351 daytime. 501-843-0709 Cabot 501-882-0142 Beebe. 6/8

for rent ward: New duplexes, 2 BR, 1 BA. Washer, dryer, refrigerator, dishwasher & range furnished. HUD accepted. $485 per mo. rent plus $350 deposit. Call 501-804-2304.

EXCEPTIONALLY NICE Cabot, 1 br. apt., CH/A, laundry room, new berber carpet, $365 mo. No. smoking, no pets, you’ll be impressed. 501-605-9234. 5/25

CABOT - 4 bdrm. 3 ba. w/office space. Custom built home on 2 acres in quiet neighborhood. $1,200 mo. Call 259-0547. 5/25

LEGAL NOTICE
Legal notice as published in the May 21 and May 25, 2005 edition of The Leader:
RESOLUTION NO. 27 OF 2005
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A BID FOR STREET SEALANTS, AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the City of Cabot has received bids for a contract for street sealants; and
WHEREAS, the bids were opened on April 21, 2005. Hawk Systems, Inc. was found to have submitted the most advantageous bid for $1.25 per square yard of sealant and $.09 per linear foot for restriping after sealant is applied to each affected street.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF CABOT, ARKANSAS THAT:
SECTION 1: The Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to negotiate and execute the proposed contract between the City of Cabot and Hawk Systems, Inc. providing for the necessary work.
SECTION 2: The City Attorney shall review all contracts prior to their execution.
SECTION 3: This resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage.
SPONSOR: Mayor Mickey D. (Stubby) Stumbaugh
PASSED: 8-0
DATE: May 16, 2005
APPROVED: Mayor Mickey D. (Stubby) Stumbaugh
ATTEST: Marva Verkler, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM: Kenneth R. Williams, City Attorney

Monday, May 23, 2005

FROM THE PUBLISHER>> Call of the wild bird

BY GARRICK FELDMAN

“The greatest recovery this country has seen in 200 years,” Sam Hamilton, southeast regional director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, told a town hall meeting Wednesday evening in Augusta.

He was talking about the discovery last year of the ivory-billed woodpecker and efforts by state and U.S. officials to ensure the bird’s survival in the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge east of here.

The announcement last month of several sightings in the cypress and tupelo swamps created a worldwide sensation as people from across the country and from abroad started arriving in Arkansas in hopes of catching a glimpse of a bird that hadn’t been sighted in 60 years and was believed to have been extinct.

The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission have been holding public meetings near the Cache River bottoms to tell area residents about the bird’s miraculous survival and the need to protect it without interfering with the rights of hunters, fishermen and farmers.

Audiences have seen an all-too-brief video of the bird in flight in the swampy forest. The clip, which showed the ivory-bill’s huge black-and-white wings, seemed genuine.

Hamilton, who is overseeing the U.S. Interior Department’s $10.1 million program to save the rare woodpecker, said the sightings have confirmed the existence of just one bird.

Everyone’s hoping there’s another bird in the woods that will make it possible for the ivory-bill to reproduce, Hamilton said.

“We almost lost the Cache River bottoms,” he continued, referring to efforts 35 years ago to dredge the area. Environmental-ists and their political allies, including then-Gov. Dale Bump-ers, halted those plans.

“The ivory-billed woodpecker wouldn’t be here without the Cache River bottoms,” Hamilton said.

Arkansas hunters have contributed to the preservation of the Cache River bottoms with $38 million in duck stamps, according to Scott Henderson, chairman of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

The bird has survived here because of the rich bottomland forests that are ideal for its survival.

“We have the best and largest ecosystem in the Delta,” said Nancy DeLamar, regional external affairs director of the Nature Conservancy in Arkansas, which had been buying thousands of acres in recent years to help the wildlife in the area.

AG&FC, which hosted the meeting at the Augusta National Guard Armory, had brought along the video of the ivory-billed woodpecker, but the projector unfortunately malfunctioned, and there was no sound. But for about five seconds, you could see the magnificent bird flying with its white wings spread out 30 inches above the water and heading toward a dead tree, where the bird thrives on grubs and seems to enjoy its isolation.

Although you couldn’t hear it, the bird is supposed to make a “toot-toot” call like a child’s horn.
There had been few credible sightings till an outdoorsman named Gene Sparling III from Hot Springs spotted the ivory-bill on Feb. 11, 2004 while kayaking in the Bayou DeView at the Dagmar Wildlife Management Area and posted his finding on a Web site.

Tim Gallagher of the Cornell (N.Y.) Laboratory of Ornithology contacted Sparling, and Gallagher and a friend soon headed for Arkansas and spent hundreds of hours looking for the bird.
They were in tears when they found it.

Gallagher has written a book about his adventures in Arkansas called “The Grail Bird: Hot on the Trail of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker” (Houghton Mifflin, $25). It’s a gripping story, with several photographs of the Cache River bottoms.

You can take it with you while you’re looking for the rare bird and read it at night while you’re camping out in the woods.

Bird lovers have a better chance of seeing the woodpecker now that the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has reopened much of the refuge that was closed when the ivory-bill’s sighting was first announced.

Parts of the wildlife habitat between Hwy. 38 and the Dagmar Wildlife Refuge remain closed to the public for canoeing, although the Game and Fish Commission has reopened entrances to the swamps in many areas after ornithologists isolated the ivory-bill in a small area around Bayou DeView.

You can see why the ivory-billed woodpecker chose to live in the wilds of east Arkansas: Apart from some highways and dirt roads that cut through the Cache River refuge — few people know that I-40 goes through the refuge, as the freeway moves along just feet away from the bayou — the area farther north and south is where an outdoorsman and a bird can still find isolation, at least until the crowds arrive.