Stories from Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Blytheville and Gosnell took another step in establishing the crosstown rivalry on Nov. 19. The two schools met on the hardwood for the first time with the Lady Pirates securing a 50-34 home victory. Despite the Lady Chicks getting on the board first, it was Gosnell who took the momentum early and carried it throughout the game. ...

In their official return to the hardwood, the Blytheville Chickasaws made a statement against the Buffalo Island Mustangs. Blytheville took a commanding 72-42 victory, leading wire to wire. Senior Camron Jones helped kickstart the Blytheville offense, scoring eight of his game-high 12 points. His two three-pointers, along with a score in transition, put the Chicks ahead 12-4 early in the game...

Lake City Mayor Cameron Tate discussed city employee raises for the year 2022 during the council meeting held Monday, Nov. 15. A motion was made by Council member Danny Dunigan and seconded by Council member Brenda Hutcheson to make one step of $1,250/year by the salary schedule to all city employees for the year 2022. Motion passed 5-0 with Kate Wells abstaining...

Blytheville Code Enforcement condemnation/demolition coordinator Janice Smith clarified a report in Saturday’s edition of the NEA Town Courier on her presentation to the Rotary Club of Blytheville, saying Public Works does not have a program to clean alleyways...

Monette City Council reviewed holiday plans for November and December during the Monday evening meeting. “The town is decorated beautifully for the Christmas season,” said Mayor Bob Blankenship. “We plan to have a tree lighting ceremony on Sunday after Thanksgiving, from 5-6:30 p.m. We will add the final touch by turning on the lights to the big tree. We will have carolers there to sing, and Santa will be available for visits and photos.”...

The Great River Economic Development Foundation introduced a new incentive program for manufacturing companies during the Nov. 22 Mississippi County Planning and Development meeting. While being thankful the 1/2-cent economic development was renewed and is continuing to create jobs, GREDF expects this program to do even more. County economic developer Clif Chitwood, and GREDF board members Brad Harrison and Randy Scott detailed the new “Work Here, Live Here” program...

Mary Virginia Brooks, 79, of Manila, passed from this life Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, at the Manila Nursing Center. Born and raised in the Roseland Community, she was the daughter of the late Charley and Vivian Beal Hale. Mary was a lifelong area resident and had worked at American Greetings in Osceola, Mid-South Footwear formerly of Manila and Arlee Manufacturing formerly of Leachville. ...