Stories from Friday, January 30, 2015

The Plain and Fancy Quilters Club held its monthly meeting Jan. 6 at the Blytheville Public Library.

Justin and Kelsey Smothers of Gosnell announce the arrival of Olivia Wren Smothers, born on Dec. 13, 2014, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro.

Carmine Nichol Wright, 4 months, died Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, at St. Bernards Medical Center Jonesboro.

"Can I put your flag up for you?" This question was asked by an individual who introduced himself by the name of Lawrence Gibbons. He said, "I have noticed your flag has not been flying when I pass by and have missed it." It so happens I have a disability at the present and cannot raise Old Glory as I had been doing everyday the weather allowed. I was surprised and also very proud he had stopped by. I readily answered, "I would be very pleased if you would."...

Farmers Bank & Trust recently announces the promotion of Justin Bell to the position of vice president.

Melissa Logan, who was recently appointed by the Democratic Party of Mississippi County to fill its slot on the Election Commission, said she has garnered a respect for the commission's process in recent years and looks forward to now being a part.

After experiencing a spike at the end of 2014, tax revenues across Mississippi County are down again, according to the most recent report released by county Treasurer Peggy Meatte.

Blytheville police are conducting a death investigation after a customer found a man deceased in the bathroom of the old Mark's Exxon on Division Friday, according to Chief Ross Thompson. Thompson said investigators haven't ruled the death a homicide yet. The name of the deceased has not been released. Details will be released as they become available...

GOSNELL -- It's been a tough two weeks for the Gosnell Pirates. Coming into Friday night's 3-4A contest against visiting Highland, the Pirates had played four consecutive games that were decided by four points or less. Friday night's result was nearly as close with the Pirates finding themselves on the short end of a 61-56 decision to the Rebels at the Gosnell Physical Education Center...

FORREST CITY -- The Blytheville Chickasaws dipped below the .500 mark in the 5A East after an 83-70 loss to defending 5A East and 5A state champions, Forrest City Mustangs at Mustang Arena. Blytheville led 21-16 after one period. Forrest City outscored the Chicks, 19-10 in the second period to take a 37-31 lead into halftime. The Mustangs distanced themselves from Blytheville in the third outscoring the Chicks 24-9 in the period to take a 61-40 lead into the fourth...