Other Days: November 8, 2023

10 YEARS AGO NOVEMBER 6, 2013 With the 2014 budget meetings set for later this month, county treasurer Jack Hopson reported to the Quorum Court Monday night that the balance in the county general budget continues to see improvement as a result of cuts made in the 2013 budget. The latest figures show an $83,497 improvement in the budget compared to the same date last year. County Judge Gary Spears asked the court's budget committee for their input on ways the county might squeeze a little extra money out of the 2014 budget for non-appropriated funds. Also at the meeting, a concerned citizen of the Calmer community complained that Ryburn Road, which runs between Hwy. 63 south of Woodlawn to Hwy. 114 west of Calmer, is in poor condition and presented Judge Spears with some letters signed by several residents and others asking for something to be done. The first annual Rison Trunk-or-Treat held in downtown Rison last Thursday evening, Halloween, was a huge hit, as hundreds of trick-or-treaters made their walk through a line of cars, trucks and other vehicles collecting candy. Some people gave away more than $100 worth of candy at the event, co-sponsored by area churches, Rison Shine Downtown Development and the Cleveland County Herald. Following what Mayor Vernon Dollar described as a 'good year' for the city financially, the Rison City Council unanimously approved the 2014 city budget that includes a 5 percent pay increase for city employees. Rison city councilman Curtis Hopper announced during Tuesday night's meeting that he will not seek reelection next year. Hopper has been serving on the council since 1994. The Rison Wildcats, down 10 points with just under 10 minutes left in the game, punched out touchdown drives of 80 and 70 yards, climaxed by the go-ahead score by Zuntario Oliver from one yard out with just 45 seconds remaining, to stun the Strong Bulldogs, 30-24, in a big 8-2A Conference battle at Strong Friday night. Ris...