Other Days: April 26, 2023

10 YEARS AGO APRIL 24, 2013 While no one has been formally charged for setting the fire a little more than a year ago that destroyed Rison City Hall, investigators feel that they are close to possibly making an arrest in the case if they can only get a little more evidence. Law enforcement officials have reported that they believe they know who set the fire, and are looking to strengthen their case against the possible 'local' suspect. The building was nearly a total loss and had to be torn down to the bare metal frame and completely rebuilt from the ground up. The Woodlawn School Board was scheduled to hold a special meeting today to review the resumes that have been submitted for superintendent to replace Supt. Billy Williams, who is taking the head job at Drew Central School in Monticello. 'Community Gardens' are gaining in popularity across the United States, with students and adults in Cleveland County getting a chance to not only learn about gardening, but enjoy the bounty of their harvest as well. The first community garden in the county was set up early this spring on the playground at Woodlawn Elementary School. County Extension Service agent Les Walz said the gardens can be used not only for growing vegetables, but for educational purposes as well. The Arkansas State Highway Commission awarded bids Tuesday totaling more than $34 million for major road improvement projects along Highway 167 and Highway 63, both jobs including work in Cleveland County and adjoining counties. 20 YEARS AGO APRIL 30, 2003 A low turnout of voters from the Rison School District overwhelmingly approved the district's request for a four-mill increase and to restructure its debt service bonds in a special election held Tuesday. A special called meeting of the Woodlawn School Board could take place within the next two weeks to discuss the district's options in light of a court-mandated minimum millage for maintenance ...