Clay County Courier Narratives 1932 - 1952

Submitted by Danny Moore

1932
W. O. Wampler, who was served as Corning Chief of Police since last September 14, turned in his resignation on Christmas Day to Mayor Wyatt Johnson. Johnson immediately appointed Ralph Parrish as temporary police chief to serve until the next meeting of the city council.
Roy Cantwell is the new proprietor of a modern, three chair barber shop, recently opened in the Sunshine Cafe and Hotel building on West Second Street. Cantwell has removed his cleaning and pressing shop also to the above mentioned new location. Cantwell has employed three well known local expert barbers, Charles Davis, William Wright and Robert (Red) See.
Concerning vacancy in Corning Post Office: Salary $2200 yearly. To fill the vacancy in the position of postmaster and in accordance with an order of the President, an open competitive examination.
A large number of local citizens met at Corning Baptist Church last Monday evening in the interest of the organizing a Corning Troop of Boy Scouts of America. A citizens troop committee was selected as follows: Charles R. Black, chairman, County School Superintendent W. W. Henry, Mayor Wyatt Johnson. W. L. Oliver, W. M. Fowler, Elder G. E. Neely and H. B. Sheeks. Herman E. Niswonger was elected scoutmaster.
The Steinberg store, one of Corning's oldest mercantile establishments, and the City Barber Shop, located in the south room of the same building, a one-story modern brick structure on West Second Street, was totally destroyed by fire last Tuesday morning, resulting in loss and damage of approximately $30,000. For a while flames threatened to eat their way across the Sursea building, adjoining the Steinberg Store on the north and occupied by L. G. Latham's Lunch Room. The building occupied by the Fair Store on the south, was damaged to the extent of several hundred dollars, as were the Fair Store's stocks adjacent to the brick partition separating the two buildings. The Steinberg store was operated by N. N. Steinberg, a son of the late J. Steinberg, pioneer Corning merchant, who established the business here more than 30 years ago.
Dr. J. P. Hiller of Pollard was host to the membership of physicians who compose the Clay County Medical Society, and their wives with a picnic supper at Black River Tourists Camp just east of Corning last Tuesday evening. Dr. W. L. Brandon of Poplar Bluff, Dr. and Mrs. E. D. Jernigan and Rev. and Mrs. J. A. Sage of Corning were guests of the medical society. Members and their wives present were Dr. Hiller of Pollard, Drs. J. E. McGuire and Chon of Piggott; Drs. Parrish, Futrell and Blackwood of Rector; Drs. Latimer, Richardson and Newkirk of Corning.
Futrell is victor by big majority. Mrs. Hattie Caraway stages runaway for US Senate. Clay County nominates Mizell, Raley, Parsons, Hastings and Williams. Total of 2,500 votes polled.
Construction of 7.2 miles of pavement on US Highway No. 67, extending from Corning to the Arkansas-Missouri line, is included in projects given preference by US engineers and the Arkansas State Highway Commission, as a part of the work to be done with $4,200,000 federal funds soon to be available for Arkansas.
Corning Public School will open next September 5th for a full nine months school year and enter upon its fifth consecutive year as a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. This is the most highly rated school in Clay County. Only three changes have been made in the faculty for the coming year, as follows: Prof. Leo Wools of Batesville will teach mathematics and science. Miss Jewell Machen of Magnolia will teach French and Latin. Miss Jewell Ratcliffe of this city will be Corning's new first grade teacher. Members of the faculty who have been re-employed are: Superintendent and Mrs. E. P. Ennis, Professors G. A. Lamb and M. B. Albright, Miss Rubye McCarroll, Miss Sara Frances Sprague, Mrs. G. A. Jimerson, Mrs. Isabelle Wilson and Mrs. L. O. Day.
John Ermert will discontinue the restaurant business here within the next few days and open a variety store in the same location.
Ralph Skinner and J. F. (Buddy) Biggs, honor students of the 1932 graduating class, have the distinction of being the first all male honor students here in several years. Other members of the class are: Kenneth Livengood, Vernell Eggers, Loren Garland, Cleo Bowers, Edna Harold, Louie Ermert, Allene Smelser, Wanda Smithson, Lowell Cochran, William Weddle, Stella Graves, Lorraine Davis, Evelyn Belford, Anita Smith, Gladys Creason, Guy B. Crutchfield, Joe Julian, Don Harold, Ewell Companiotte, Ruth Mary Stanfield, Erma Gowen, Verneal Hicks, Charles Bowers, Glenn Wilson, Reginald Smith, Jesse Thorpe and Albert Jackson.
Last Sunday afternoon sheriff deputies R. R. Ruff, J. M. Rice and local night marshal W. H. Grayson raided a floating still just across Black River east of Brookings. The officers said that while they were in the woods that dinner bells were rung, other alarms sounded and signals made in that community as a warning of the approaching raid. The raft was deserted when the officers arrived.
A crowd of Corning girls recently spent a delightful weekend in the Sellmeyer houseboat on Current River. Among those were Misses Grace Tierney, Birdie W. Sullins, Tula Herndon, Edith Brown, Camile Lasater, Sudie Calaway, of St. Joseph, Mo., and Mrs. E. C. Eldrecker.
Esq. George W. Legate of Current River township has a cow that dropped four calves in ten months and three days. That would certainly be a good illustration for Ripley's Believe It Or Not. According to Legate, all of the four calves lived and were normal. The calves were two pairs of twins.
Wilson's Cash Market, a new grocery store and meat market will be opened next Saturday in the building formerly occupied by the Red and White Store, Second Street, owned and operated by Cecil Wilson of Senath, Mo.
Citizens of Corning are promised one never to be forgotten night of entertainment and fun on October 21st when the Korning Karnival is to be given at the gymnasium. This evening of merrymaking and entertainment is to be sponsored by the Epsworth League and the High School, jointly. The proceeds are to be equally divided by these two organizations, the Epsworth League using their part of the funds to apply on the church conference claims and the High School using their half of the ticket money for the benefit of The Corning Bobcats, our fighting football team. The minstrel and other musical features of the Karnival are to be directed by Rev. J. Abner Sage.
E. E. Nelson, local wholesale distributor for Sinclair Refining Co., will soon start construction of a modern automobile service station on the lot formerly occupied by the Joyland Theatre, at the southwest corner of West Second and Main Streets in Corning. Nelson bought the lot from the _____.
Corning is all set today, Friday, October 21, for first annual Homecoming of former Corning school students and alumni. Plans have been perfected by Corning School Superintendent Ennis and his faculty for a big day of entertainment. The main feature of the day will be the Corning-Rector football game, the initial contest of a triangular series, between Corning, Rector and Piggott for the Clay County grid championship. Another feature of the day will be the selection of a Corning Queen, to come from the junior and senior classes of C.H.S. Among the contestants are: Mademoiselles Naomi Fowler, Elizabeth Black, Ruth Harold, Geraldine Wilkerson, Maye Harris, Zelda Gregory, Georgia Revecca, Geneva Esmon.
An anniversary of more than passing interest, though not observed with formal function or celebration, was that of the J. W. Black Lumber Company of Corning. which passed its 36th milestone recently. Few industrial plants in Arkansas have had more rapid development than this organization which was started in Corning nearly four decades ago by J. W. Black, who still is active president of the company at the age of 74. The J. W. Black Lumber Co. has grown from a small country sawmill to a modern steam and electric hardwood manufacturing plant which exports large shipments of wagon, furniture and other small dimension hardwood stocks to Canada and many countries in Europe. The company also handles a large brokerage business. Oak and hickory are the principal hardwoods manufactured and sold by the concern. For many years until this depression, the company's annual shipment averaged more than a carload per day.
W. A. Vandover and C. V. Beloate, local citizens, have passed the half century mark as continuous subscribers to the Clay County Courier. Another unique feature is that each of these two gentlemen is 77 years old. C. V. Beloate is a son of the late Captain C. R. Beloate, who removed with his family from Pocahontas to Corning in 1873 and for many years served as Corning's postmaster and later engaged in the mercantile (drug) business with his son. With exception of two years residence in Batesville, C. V. Beloate has resided in Corning continuously through the past 59 years and has always been identified with the civic and religious life of this community. W. A. Vandover is a native of Butler County, Missouri. He was born in 1854 and removed to Clay County in 1892, settling on a farm in Richwoods community, a few miles west of Corning. There he built a home and cleared his land. After ten years of farming he removed to Corning where he has since been a permanent resident. Last Monday, Mr. Vandover observed his 50th anniversary as a Clay County citizen by spending that day as a guest of one of his farm managers, John C. Joyner, and dined in the house he built with his own hands 50 years ago. These two pioneers have watched the development of Clay County from a dense wilderness to a country of valuable farms, good roads and schools, recounting experience of the hardships of most persons here four or more decades ago. They can tell you of Clay County's "bad men" of those days, how officers, far out numbered waged a long and arduous battle for law and finally won, after holding it few public hangings.
A 26-inch King Heater for only $3.05. H. Goode, First Street, Corning.

A Brief History of Corning
by C. V. Beloate
In 1871 the St. Louis and Iron Mountain Railroad was extended from Iron Mountain, Mo., to Poplar Bluff, and connected with the Cairo and Fulton Railroad that was being extended shortly into Arkansas and on into Texarkana. In 1871 these two railroads were consolidated and named the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railroad, to be later absorbed by the Missouri Pacific Railroad, by which name it is now known. At that time there were only two trains a day, one each way, powered by small wood-burning locomotives. Passengers on those trains nearing Corning heard the brake men call out. "All out for Carpenter Station" and if you had wanted to send a letter to Corning you would have mailed it to Pocahontas, until a post office was established here. Then, your letter had to be addressed to Hecht City, when George Stephens, father of Mrs. Clyde Lasater and Miss Mabel Stephens, was made the first postmaster. Soon thereafter the name of Hecht City was changed to Corning, named for H. K. Corning, an official of the old St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern RR Company.
Clayton County was created in 1873 out of parts of Greene and Randolph Counties, with Corning designated as the first county seat. In 1886, Hon. J. C. Hawthorne, state senator for this district, had an act passed through the state legislature dividing Clay County into two districts, the Eastern and the Western, with Corning designated as the place for holding courts for the Western District. In 1875 the name of this county was changed from Clayton to Clay.
The first courthouse was located where Oliver and Company store now stands, and was a frame box building about 25 by 60 feet, with 20 feet partitioned off in the rear of the structure for the county clerk's and sheriff's offices. The building was used for a courthouse, Methodist Church, Sunday School, dance hall and all public gatherings. The first church in Corning was the present Methodist, organized by Rev. Phipps of Randolph County, a relative of the late Ferd Phipps and Mrs. J. F. Arnold, who served as pastor for several years. This church continued to use the courthouse as a place of worship until a frame school building was erected near where the present school building now stands; then the church used the new school building until a church edifice was erected on the site of the present Methodist church building. The second church building erected in Corning was built by the Baptists, led by Sylvanus Bishop, a sincere Christian gentleman, father of Mrs. W. B. Teters, now residing here. The next church building was erected by the Christians; then the Pentecostal church was organized and a tabernacle was built by members of that denomination.
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Pursuant to a call by Corning Board of Education, a mass meeting of citizens was held at Corning school gymnasium last Monday evening for the purpose of working out a plan to finance the remainder of the present term of Corning Public Schools. Funds for operating Corning Schools were exhausted on or about April 1st, and this school board is faced with the problem of either closing the school or financing the remainder of the term by tuition or public subscription. C. R. Black, president of the school board and chairman of the mass meeting, explained the situation and urged patrons to devise some fair and satisfactory plan to complete the remaining two months of the term. Local high school students have been paying $4 tuition each month for several months recently in order to keep the schools open as long as possible with the limited school funds available. The school board estimates that, in addition to the high school tuition now being paid, approximately $2,000 will be required to complete the remaining two months. The plan, adopted by the citizens' committee, is to charge a tuition fee of $3 per month for each pupil in grammar school, payable 75 cents per week, in advance.
Mrs. Minnie Johnson of Paragould, a district president of the American Legion Auxiliary, assisted the local Legion Post in organizing a Corning Auxiliary Chapter last Monday evening, with the following ladies as charter members: Mrs. Ed V. Sheeks, Mrs. S. M. Garrett, Mrs. T. H. Rhea, Mrs. T. G. Bridges, Mrs. C. E. Gage, Miss Ida Stevenson, Mrs. E. Vandover, Mrs. J. B. Belford, Mrs. E. M. Pfeiffer and Mrs. C. E. Hughes.
Corning School Honor Roll for October-First Grade: Maxine Campbell, Ermadean Charlton, Louise Davis, Peggy Jean Frazier, Altina Lester, Betty Jo Niswonger, Mary Alice Parish, Joe Parkinson, Jr., Donald Polk, Robert Polk, Buddy Whitehead, Joe Randall Etchison,.
Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected President last Tuesday by the greatest majority of votes ever polled in a national election.
Official returns from Kilgore township in last Tuesday's election show 367 votes polled, of which 258 were for Roosevelt and Garner, the Republican electors receiving 77, the Socialist 1, and Liberty and Communist tickets each 0. In the race for justice of the peace the two Democratic candidates were elected: Belford England receiving 274 votes and J. M. Blunk 206 Votes. B. H. Bowers, Republican candidate for reelection received 152 votes. For road overseer, H. E. Thompson, Democrat, received 283 votes and Wm. Wisdom, Independent, 78.
Graber's store is now open for business in their handsome new building on West Second Street, two doors south of The Corning Bank and Trust Co. All their stocks of merchandise were removed to the new Graber building on Wednesday of last week. The Graber building is one of the most attractive and modern business structures in northeast Arkansas and it's complete lines of merchandise carried offer the shopper advantages seldom found in a town this size.
Don't fail to see the Womanless Wedding at Corning Gymnasium next Friday night, December 9th. It is a scream from start to finish, with 26 of Corning's most prominent business men taking part, burlesqued as women. The play is being staged by Corning Business and Professional Women's Club under direction of Miss Rosalie Baynham and the entire proceeds go to the Corning Public School fund. Below is a cast of characters: Bride, A. B. Gallegly; Groom, N. N. Steinberg; Father of the Bride, R. C. Launius; Mother of the Bride, P. L. Oliver; Twins, L. V. Ruff and J. H. Magee; Uncle, J. M. Oliver, Jr.; Aunt, Aubrey Estes; Grandfather, E. L. Hollaway; Grandmother, Carl Toalson; Miss Spain, J. B. Belford; Mrs. Know-All, G. A. Jimerson; Miss Rusia, T. G. Bridges; Aunt Africa, Dr. E. D. Jernigan; Baby, L. G. Black; Trainbearers, Earl Polk and Roy Cantwell; Flower girl, Brooks Sheeks; Best Man, Clyde Lasater; Soloist, W. L. Oliver; Minister, T. C. Gallegly; Ringbearer, Tom H. Rhea; Bridesmaids, William Estes, L. L. Frazier and Clyde Harris; Groomsmen, W. M. Fowler, Prof. G. A. Lamb and Graham Black. Immediately after the Womanless Wedding, a one-act play entitled "Do men Gossip?" Will be presented with a cast composed of Profs. M. B. Allbright and G. A. Lamb, Wm. Estes, T. C. Gallegly, Brooks Sheeks and Miss Sara Frances Sprague. Admission 10c and 25c.
Mrs. Mae Haizlip, well known former local girl and famous actress, became the speed queen of the world at the National Air Races last Monday in Cleveland, shattering the women's land plane record with an average speed of 255.513 miles an hour.
Beautiful Black River Tourist Camp, located about two miles cast of Corning, was the scene of a delightful outing and fish fry for a group of local people one day first of this week. The party arrived at camp near the river. Other appetizing dishes, which had been previously prepared, were added to the menu. After dinner, the party enjoyed a motor boat trip up the river. Those present were Misses Birdie Sullins, Edith Brown, Edith Bennett, Eula and Beulah Bennett, Tula Herndon, Mary and Birdell Boshears, Mrs. Meta Boshears, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Toalson, H. W. Vandover, W. A. Vaught, A. D. Jones, Herman Day, Aubrey and Wm. Estes and D. Scott.
The Hawkeye Pearl Button Co. of Muscatine, Ia., large manufacturers of fresh water pearl buttons, is seriously considering establishing a branch cutting factory in Corning according to a communication received by Mayor Johnson of this city a few days ago. For several months past, there had been no local market for mussel shells and many shell diggers on Black River were idle. About three weeks ago, N. N. Steinberg of Corning announced that he is the market for shells. Now, more than 100 shell diggers on Black River between the Missouri state line and Pocahontas have been put back to work.
Attorney E. L. Holloway of Corning authorized the Courier this week to announce his candidacy for Representative of Clay County, subject to action of the Democratic primary next August 9th.
Miss Sterlene Blackwood has been chosen as Miss Corning to represent this city in the annual Crowley's Ridge Elberta Peach festival to be held at Forrest City the latter part of next month. Miss Blackwood's maids of honor are Misses Jewell Ratcliffe, Virginia Sprague, Kathryn Henry and Lucille Esmon.
Among the many beauties of Corning vicinity is her chain of lakes, the largest of which is Corning Lake. Here good fishing and boating abound and sportsmen from many states comes annually, stopping at the beautiful Knobel Clubhouse.
Corning has grown from a struggling village of cheap frame houses to a substantial town of some 2,000 people, with many modern brick business buildings and beautiful homes, large, solid business firms with good roads leading out in every direction.
In spite of a few bootleggers and scofflaws, Corning has as good citizens as can be found in any town of its size anywhere in the world. Some of the pioneer settlers of Corning community and their descendants are the Stephens, Woodall, Hardesty, Boshears, Tisdial, Polk, Harb, Beloate, Thomas, Bishop, Teters and Estes families.

1933
The recent heavy rainfall got Black River out of its bounds during the past few days, flooding a wide area between the levee systems in this territory. However, no levee breaks are known to have occurred near here, and the floods are receding.
After an absence of 30 years during which time he has sailed the seven seas on merchant marine ships, John Barnhill has returned to Clay County, his birthplace, to make his home. He arrived a few days ago from New York City, to make arrangements to remove his family to Palatka. He has been a captain on ocean liners and holds an unlimited master's license in the merchant marine service. He is a son of the late Henry Barnhill, pioneer Corning merchant and brother of Postmaster R. G. Barnhill at Palatka.
A perfectly gentle, well bred, full grown he mule, belonging to Cleve Cox of Blue School district, came to Corning last Saturday night and while strolling across Dr. J. M. Oliver's lawn, fell into an abandoned ten foot deep empty, brick-walled cesspool. J. B. Belford placed a tow line around the mule's body and amid languished, yet disturbing sounds, the animal was pulled to safety. Once again free, the mule took a deep breath, raised its tail and ears and "headed for home" none the worse for the experience.
Two Corning physicians were objects of robbery on Monday night of last week. Dr. N. J. Latimer's office was entered and ransacked and Dr. E. M. Pfeiffer was accosted at the door of his home by an masked stickup man. It is believed the robbery attempts were both the work of a drug-crazed person.
Last Thursday the Arkansas Highway Commission awarded a contract for paving the 7.2 mile gap on US Highway 67 between Corning and the Arkansas-Missouri line, to A. C. Kennedy of Little Rock, whose bid was $125,425.70. Contract provides that work must be finished within 130 calendar days from the date of beginning work.
Second annual Tuf-Nut Day, Saturday, February 11th. Oliver and Co., Corning.
Earl P. Day has been appointed local inspector for the Regional Agriculture Credit Corporation of Mo., through which federal government funds are now available for farm and livestock loans to prospective borrowers at six and one-half percent interest.
Announcement was made last Tuesday that J. R. Rhyne of Little Rock, for many years a resident of Corning and one of the most widely known engineers in Arkansas, has been appointed Director of Highways by the Arkansas State Highway Commission.
The Ben Franklin 5c and 10c Stores of America will open a unit in Corning soon, the new store to be located in the building recently occupied by the Graber store on West Second Street. W. Meadows is removing the store from Poplar Bluff to Corning and it will probably be open for business by Saturday, March 4.
The First State Bank of Corning invoked temporary curtailment of withdrawals last Tuesday, along with several other banks over Arkansas. The length of the restrictive period is indefinite and will end just as soon as conditions permit, officials of the bank said. Deposits made on and after last Tuesday are segregated and can be withdrawn on demand. The Corning Bank and Trust Company is doing business as usual, unaffected by the new banking law. Its officials stated that the Corning Bank and Trust Company will not apply the privilege of restricting withdrawals.
I. B. Langley, liquidating agent for the Bank of Pollard, which closed November 17, 1930, has issued checks to all depositors in payment of a final dividend of 80 percent, making 100 percent payments on the deposits, the State Bank Department reported yesterday.
L. A. Scrivner, Palatka, Ark., everything in general merchandise. We buy anything you have for sale and sell anything you want to buy. Livestock, poultry, eggs, corn, etc. We now have a building for furniture only. Trade us your old furniture for new. For the benefit of our lady customers and children customers we have opened a comfortable rest room where all are welcome.
A convention, attended by a large number of local citizens, was held at the courthouse here last Thursday evening when nominees were selected for Corning municipal offices. Four changes were made in the local municipal ticket to be voted upon next April 4th - L. Graber, J. J. Atkison and Aubrey Estes for aldermen, to succeed T. G. Bridges, F. A. Harold and D. L. Ousnamer, and H. B. Sheeks for recorder, succeeding C. D., Anderson. Mayor Wyatt Johnson, Aldermen L. E. Allen and J. H. Hardesty were re-nominated for their respective places. C. R. Black presided as chairman and Buck Estes as secretary of the mass meeting.
Sam and Miss Nell Hall recently awarded a contract for construction of a new home, a modern six-room bungalow on their lot at 517 West Third Street. J. W. Black Lumber Co. has the contract for a turnkey job and S. E. Riggs, a local carpenter, has charge of construction. The former Hall residence, recently bought by R. M. Hubble, is now being removed to a lot on West Fourth Street, one block distant.
The electric division of the Clay County Ice Co., of Corning, which has been closed for the past eight months, will resume operation within the next three or four weeks. J. F. Mullins of Pine Bluff, recently purchased all property of the Clay County Ice Co., electric, ice and sodawater manufacturing units, and the plant is now being completely overhauled. J. C. Mohrstadt and Lyle Richmond, owners and operators of moving picture theatres in Hayti and Senath, Mo., closed a deal last Thursday with W. M. Ward for a three year lease of his Starlight Theatre in Corning. Its name has been changed to New State Theatre and will be ready for opening on April 16th.
Deputy Sheriff R. R. Ruff and several of his deputies last Sunday destroyed a small liquor still on an east bank of Black River near Kelley Hole just southeast of Corning. Officer Ruff said that it was the crudest outfit he had ever confiscated. A large can, used for shipping cream, was part of the equipment.
Corning school boys junior club met and elected officers last Monday, April 3rd, as follows: president, Melvin Rice; vice president, Owen Phelan; secretary, Wendell Phipps. Others present were: Jimmy Rider, George Rhodes, Cleo Stafford, Bobby Lindsey, Edward Russell and Charles McCord.
Heavy rainfall during the past two weeks has delayed work of paving US Highway 67 just north of Corning, however, nearly a mile has been completed.
W. H. (Bill) Porter was sworn in by Mayor Wyatt Johnson last Saturday as Corning night marshal, succeeding Harrison Grayson, who recently resigned and is now employed as night watchman of paving machinery on US Highway 67, for Contractor A. C. Kenney. Salary of the local night watchman is paid by subscription of local merchants and property owners and costs this town nothing. His duties are to protect local property against burglary and fire danger and make arrests for any law violations. In making his night rounds over the city, he is constantly inspecting door locks of local business firms and looking after interests of property owners in general.
Gus Mills recently purchased an interest in Corning Home Bakery of Oscar Slife who has operated this business two years. Mr. Mills, now active manager of the Home Bakery, is making many improvements and adding new equipment and producing highest quality, sanitary breads and pastries.
The First State Bank of Corning was placed in charge of the State Banking Department last Monday, following a meeting of its directors and Joseph Sellmeyer, president of the bank, was immediately appointed manager of the bank's affairs. The First State Bank had been operated on a restricted basis since last March 1st, pending reorganization. The State Banking Department has approved a loan by the First State Bank, from the Corning Bank and Trust Co., of a sufficient amount to enable the First State Bank to make available at once in cash on demand 50 percent of its general demand time deposits and 100 percent of all prior claims against it and also all secured claims against it to extent of the value of the respective securities thereto; also expenses of said loan and to pledge, as security for such loan, all of its assets, and except only such assets as by previous provisions of Act 96 of the Arkansas General Assembly, are segregated and required to be kept intact. All deposits of the First State Bank have been transferred to the Corning Bank and Trust Company.
Black River is expected to reach the highest stage here in several years, if predictions of river men prove true. The high-water mark at Black River bridge, on Highway 62, just east of Corning stood at 12.7 feet on the government gauge yesterday, and with the big overflow from Poplar Bluff area now arriving, floodwater in this territory is expected to cover a still wider area. 
Speeding 65 miles an hour through Moark at 7:21 a.m. yesterday the Texan, crack northbound Missouri Pacific passenger train, struck a loaded gasoline truck on a grade crossing, instantly killing E. E. (Chuck) Nelson of Corning and the train's fireman, Ed Hurt, of Little Rock, who jumped or fell to his death when the engine cab became a flaming inferno from gasoline spray.
Floodwaters from Little Black River claimed the life of John J. Gibbs, 33, a prominent citizen of western Clay County, last Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Gibbs, riding a mule, was drowned as he attempted to swim the animal across Black Creek dredge ditch, almost within sight of his home, two miles southeast of Success.
Members of the Corning High School graduating class: Ruth Harold, valedictorian; Naomi Fowler, salutatorian; Reva Marjorie Wright, Velva Skaggs, Janetta Thompson, Catherine Tisdial, Geraldine Wilkerson, Zelda Winona Gregory, Mary Ellen Smith, Mary Ellen Barnhill, Opal Mae Haynes, Magdalene Hubbard, Geneva Jane Esmon, Marguerite Harris, Verneal Audre Smalley, Naomi N. Lewis, Sylvia Pauline Smith, L. V. Ruff, Jr., Thomas W. Ratcliffe, Jr., James B. Pugsley, Wilbur Brady, Juil W. Reeves, Jesse M. Abanathy, Sylvester Walls, Jr., Carvin Bennett, Basil M. Companiotte, Lowell Mizell, Arlie Taylor, Landis R. Smith, Kenneth Livengood, Adolph Charles Eggers, Byron Edward Graves.
Ladies of Corning Christian Church met in the home of Mrs. B. E. Redwine last Thursday and organized a Home Missionary Society, with the following officers: president, Mrs. J. H. Magee; vice president, Mrs. B. E. Redwine, secretary-treasurer, Mrs. P. M. Companiotte; chairman of entertainment committee, Mrs. E. V. Sheeks; chairman of program committee, Mrs. S. P. Lindsey; chairman of membership committee, Mrs. T. H. Rhea. 
Chicken thieves made a big haul near Palatka last Thursday night, taking 75 hens from two farmers' places. Forty hens were taken from the home of Ed Harpole and 35 from R. W. Brown who resides just across the road from Harpole.
A. H. Schweinegruber, owns a sow that may be a champion. The sow, a Duroc gilt, weighing 150 pounds, farrowed 26 pigs last Friday, the largest litter on record for this territory, and perhaps this state. Schweinegruber resides on his farm one-fourth mile south of Datto.
The annual banquet of Corning High School Alumni Association was held at the local gym last Tuesday evening with 192 members and guests present, most largely attended banquet of this organization which was formed 32 years ago. The banquet was presided over by Mrs. J. W. Baynham of Success, toast mistress. An introductory speech was given by the toast mistress, in which she outlined a brief history of the association and called attention to prominence of several of its members. The class of 1933 was welcomed into the association by L. G. Black and high tribute was paid by him for splendid work of the students and teachers. Response to the welcome address was given by Superintendent Ennis. The Association's welcome to local school directors was given by W. L. Oliver and a response speech was made by Mrs. O. L. Woods, wife of a director. A vocal solo was rendered by Miss Rosalie Baynham. Tap dancing was given by Caroline Black and Patty Adams Oliver. Piano solos were given by Miss Rubye McCarroll, local music teacher. An after dinner speech was given by C. R. Black, his subject, "Rhumatism and Scrapiron," containing many humorous wisecracks yet forcefully conveying the thought of one's purpose in life's work. A vocal solo was next rendered by Carl Toalson. At close of the banquet a business session was held and the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Donald Harold, president; Thomas Rahm, vice president and Miss Birdie Sullins, secretary.
Dr. C. H. Newkirk, age 62, pioneer Clay County physician, passed away at his home here last Tuesday morning following a heart attack. He had been a practicing physician here for more than 40 years, most of which time he resided at Datto. He removed to Corning several years ago and continued his profession.
Lamar Ratcliffe, son of Deputy Circuit Clerk and Mrs. T. W. Ratcliffe of Corning, will be graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, next June 13.
Sixteen youths, the quota allotted western Clay County, for National Reforestation Camps, reported at Piggott yesterday morning for examinations. Those who pass will be assigned to camps in Arkansas. Local youths who took the examinations are: Kilgore Township, Amby Robinson, Jack Rhodes, Roy Hart, Cleatus Greenwood, Arthur Raney, Noel Turner; Nelson Township, Woodrow Parrish; Carpenter Township, William Shifley, Elbert Reeves; Cleveland Township, Orville Smothers; Cache Township, George Davis, Delmer Livengood; Clark Township, Jesse DeVoe, Hubert Holland, Hubert Williams; Gleghorn township, Delmer Vines. They will be paid $30 per month and will be required to allot $25 to $27.50 to their dependents.
A movement for a Lakes-to-Gulf national highway, to be known as Roosevelt Speedway, to pass through Corning, is now proposed and already has an association formed and officers elected. The route through Arkansas would pass through nine county sites, Corning, Paragould, Jonesboro, Wynne, Harrisburg, DeWitt, Forrest City, Marianna and Helena.
A Queen of Highway 67 and her six attendants are now being selected for the dedication of this highway at Corning, July 31st. Governor Futrell will crown the queen here on dedication day. The committee of judges in charge of the popularity contest, is composed of the following ladies: Mrs. R. M. Houdek, chairman, Mrs. J. H. Magee, Mrs. P. L. Oliver, Mrs. T. C. Gallegly and Mrs. T. G. Bridges.
The seven mile link of new pavement north of Corning, to the Missouri line, is now open and traffic is increasing daily over this route. Completion of the 20 miles of US Highway 67 pavement through western Clay County represents an investment of approximately $450,000. It is one of the best and finest stretches of pavement in the United States.
The first serious automobile accident on the new pavement of US Highway 67 just north of Corning occurred last Saturday afternoon about 3 p.m. when a half-ton Ford truck, occupied by John Webb and Bud Alexander of Ring community was ditched at Cypress Creek bridge. The driver attempted to turn the car around at a side road and the vehicle rolled down a steep, embankment.
Queen entries in contest to select Queen of Highway 67 include: Marguerite Ratcliffe, Alice Wright, Naomi Fowler, Elizabeth Black, Sara Frances Sprague, Beulah Bennett, Zelda Gregory, Ruthmary Stanfield, Anna Rae Blackwood. Larue McCullough, Opal Frazier, Sterlene Blackwood. Marguerite Harris, Alma Polk, Louise Baynham, Sylvia Smith, Jean Allbright, Mazie Barnhill, Erma Gowen, Muriel Harper, Eva Crismon and Agnes Hughey.
Final plans have been completed for the dedication of US Highway 67 at Corning and the formal opening of 20 miles of pavement through Clay County next Monday. Governor J. M. Futrell will deliver the dedicatory address and other high officials of both Arkansas and Missouri will speak. The dedication will take place at the junction of US Highways Nos. 67, 62 and 1 in northwest Corning. Four city blocks will be roped off and all traffic, in charge of State patrolmen, will be directed around this area during the celebration. Mayor Johnson has declared a half holiday for the town and all local stores will be closed at noon Monday, remaining closed throughout the balance of the day. Local civic organizations will operate refreshment stands near the highway junction.
Deputy Tax Collector C. E. Skinner and his son, Ralph, of Corning plan to shove off soon in their motorboat for the World's Fair at Chicago, Ill. Skinner, during the odd times since last year, has been constructing a motorboat for the trip. The boat will be hauled by truck to the Mississippi river near Cairo, from which point the journey will start.
Lady Luck smiled on L. B. Barr, a shell digger at Black river a few days ago when he opened a muckett and found a 42 grain, perfect, ball pearl, valued at between $500 and $700. He made the find near Hargrove bridge just east of Neelyville within a week after he started "hogging" shells from the river bed. He sold the orb to N. N. Steinberg, local pearl and shell buyer.
The Parent-Teacher Association is the result of a need of closer cooperation of parents and teachers in child development, the earlier organization having been known as School Improvement Association of Corning (S.I.A.) the efforts of which were directed toward improvement and appearances of schools and premises. Corning S.I.A. was organized in 1915 with Mrs. F. B. Sprague as president. Corning S.I.A. first joined the state and national organization of the Parent-Teacher Association in 1926, with Mrs. E. D. Jernigan as president. 
Former Clay County Resident Writes Interesting Letter, Reminiscing Pioneer Corning Days 
A letter from Mrs. Stella Howell, Borger, Texas 
I missed the dear old Courier last week, but received the July 14 number today and, as usual, I sat right down and read the news from Clay County, also every newsletter in that issue. 
I noticed, especially your editorial, on the front page, about the achievement for Clay County. Also, that you people are to celebrate the dedication of US Highway 67 in a very impressive and appropriate manner, with the Honorable Governors and other high officials, respectively, of Arkansas and Missouri to be distinguished speakers in Corning that day, and I, as an old pioneer citizen of Clay County, am planning to come to Corning and enjoy and help celebrate this most notable occasion, and am anticipating meeting many of my dearly beloved friends once again.
Now for a little reminiscing of pioneer days. I wonder if there is living yet, in your vicinity, any person who was there when Lee Wilson and his father, Lafe Wilson, removed to Corning from Sumner, Illinois. Lee does not remember what year he located there, but said that the railroad was built only as far south as Ironton, Mo. and grading work was just being started on the railroad dump in Arkansas.
There was only one log house standing where Corning now is, and it was located near a big tree where the former Green Hotel stood. The next nearest house was on the Roberts' farm, and the next was a lone house near where Shiloh (Richwoods) church is now located; then, on to Joe Herren's and Dennis Reynolds' farms, over corduroy roads through that post oak flat and winding on through dense woods, with no section line roads at all. At that time about ten acres were cleared where Corning now stands, with many miles separating the new farms, scattered over western Clay County. That was some years before I removed to Clay County to reside, but those were real pioneer days, even in 1882; for there was the old Wilson log house, a half mile north of what is now Moark, and an old log school house just south, on the Teter farm. These were the only houses in sight, for dense woods surrounded us with small acreages in cultivation. The county road followed the slough's west bank between Corning and Moark and the mud was so deep in winter time that we could only take a couple of bushels of corn to mill between the front wheels of our wagon, and our teams would be fagged out when they got home. How well I do remember those early days, and no one knows what hardships we all endured, who have not passed through that experience.
As I have, maybe that is why my memories go back to the days when we worked so hard and were so poverty stricken. That was the year after the terrible drought of 1881.
That was the fall I was married, and we paid $1.50 per bushel for corn on which to make a crop and everything else was as high in proportion. Speaking of pioneer days in Corning. Abe Roberts was the first man whom Lee Wilson remembers meeting when he came to Clay County.

Corning Churches, A Great Power in Our Community
The Corning Christian Church dates back to the 1880s and the work of the Rev. Mobley, the first pastor. Services were held for some time in the old courthouse. Rev. Mobley was the pastor when the first church was erected on the present site of the building housing the Clay County Ice Company. The construction of this, the third church building in Corning, in the early 1890s, was entirely supported by free will offerings. The work of Mr. Black, the father of Mrs. J. M. Rhea, was especially significant in this connection. This church building was used until 1921 when it was destroyed by fire. Services were then held for a short while in the old Starlight Theatre until it burned. The church transferred its activities to another building located on the corner now occupied by Belford Garage. The present church building was erected under the pastorate of Rev. J. Murray Taylor in 1923-24 and was dedicated by him in June, 1925. The Rev. Hoffman, father of Monroe Hoffman, has served the local Christian Church both in the old building and at various time in the new structure.
The Methodist Church obtained a firm hold in Corning in the 1880s, due to the work of the Rev. Phipps and the Rev. James Jernigan. Services were first held in the old courthouse which was located on the corner now occupied by the present Oliver and Co. store building. The local Methodist Church was, for a time, in what was known as the Old Reyno circuit. Preaching services were also held in the Richwoods community. The local charge was made independent of the circuit in the early 1890s. The Rev. N. E. Skinner was the first pastor to devote his entire services to the Corning charge. For a few years the church used the local school building which was located near where the present school is located. The Methodists constructed the first church building in Corning upon the corner of Third and Pine in the late 1880s. 
Subsequently additions were made to the building as the church expanded until 1906 when the old frame building was replaced by a brick building with five Sunday School rooms. This building was used until destroyed by fire in January, 1916. Services were once again held in the school house until the present structure was completed in 1917. This building provides adequate departmental rooms for all activities.
For a period of over 40 years the local Methodist Church has had the regular service of a resident pastor. At the present time the church has a membership of approximately 200 with a supporting church group in Blue School district. The Sunday School enrollment also approximates 200.
The Corning Pentecost church had its beginning in the tent meeting held in Corning in the summer of 1914 by the Rev. O. J. Marine and the Rev. H. E. Reed, both of Malvern. In the fall of that year the church was organized and the present church building constructed. Since this first meeting was very successful the church started with a large membership. For some time the practice of holding tent meetings at least twice a year was continued. Rev. Reed remained as pastor in Corning for a period of approximately four years and was to return as pastor at various other times. During his pastorate the present parsonage was acquired for the church.
The Rev. Marine returned as pastor in 1918 of the church he helped to found, and has served as pastor at other times since that date. He gave up his last pastorate of the Corning church, in May, 1929, and died in September of that year.
Revs. A. J. Frost, H. A. Riley, Oliver Walkman and C. P. Kilgore have also served the local church. The latter especially experienced unusual success in his first evangelical meeting. 
After the resignation of the Rev. Marine in the spring of 1929 the assistant pastor, Rev. T. R. Reed, served the church until August of that year when he was called as the regular pastor. Under Rev. Reed's pastorate the church has increased its membership to a total of approximately 250 in the congregation. New seats have been installed in the church building and the parsonage has been remodeled.
The foundation of the Corning Baptist church is very largely due to the work of Sylvanus Bishop beginning long before the Corning church was served by a regular pastor. The devotion and generosity of Mr. Bishop made possible the fruition of his ambition, the foundation of a permanent Baptist organization. He gave the lot where the present church building is located with a provision in the deed which shows the spirit of his relationship to the church. The deed provides that the property shall remain as the possession of the church for so long as it is used for church purposes, otherwise it is to revert to his heirs.
The Baptist church building was the second church structure erected in Corning and dates back to the 1880s. It was remodeled and the Sunday School rooms were added in the early 90s under the pastorate of Rev. Brumfield. During that period the church was served at various times by Rev. Cunningham, Rev. Beardon, Rev. Davis and Rev. Russell. The Rev. Neeley, father of the present pastor has served the church on several occasions.
When we announce the location of our church, we say now: You find the Lutheran Church on Highway 67, three miles north of Corning. Only a few years ago, who would have thought it possible that our church would be located on a paved highway and an international route running from Canada into Mexico.
The first Lutheran colonists, who settled in the neighborhood of our present church, surely did not dream of such a highway nor of heavy traffic passing through their settlement. The beginning of the settlement dates back to the year 1890, and even before that year. It was at that time when the first Lutheran settlers moved in and built their homes three miles north of Corning. These first Lutheran settlers were served with the teaching of the Word of God by Rev. E. Bangarter of Loulyma (now Lafe). Under the leadership of Rev. Bangarter, a Lutheran congregation of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, was organized and efforts were made to provide a suitable place for public worship. Those efforts were crowned with success.
The first Lutheran pioneers and founders of his congregation were J. J. Bollenbacher, A. Mager, Wm. Mobius, Chr. Bauschlicher and W. F. Becker. As soon as it was known that these Lutherans intended to build a church, their friends and neighbors voluntarily offered help. Clark Sheeks donated and deeded to them the half acre of ground on which this church now stands, for religious and educational purposes. Business men and other citizens of Corning donated either cash or furnished building material, free of charge. The Lutherans themselves did all the work. They hauled logs to mill and brought back lumber. The dedication of the church was celebrated with appropriate services, Rev. I. W. Miller of Little Rock, who later was first vice president of the General Synod and residing at Fort Wayne, Ind., was invited to deliver the sermon at this festive occasion. The memorable event took place in the spring of 1893. Ministers that have served Saint Matthew Lutheran Church at Corning are: Rev. E. Bangarter, from 1890 to 1893; Rev. F. Steyer, from 1893 to 1912; Rev. C. Steyer, from 1912 to 1920; Rev. R. Daeumler, 1920; the present pastor, H. O. Bruss, from 1920 until now.
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The first women's club organized in Corning was the Corning Culture Club, organized in April 1901, at the suggestion of Mrs. A. R. Simpson and Mrs. W. O. Beard. Its first meeting was held in Mrs. Beard's home and the following officers were elected: president, Mrs. W. W. Bee; vice president, Mrs. W. O. Beard; secretary-treasurer, Mrs. A. R. Simpson. The 31 charter members were: Mrs. Beard, Mrs. Bee, Mrs. C. V. Beloate, Miss Ethel Beloate, Mrs. A. L. Brown, Mrs. W. R. Brown, Mrs. C. L. Daniel, Mrs. J. C. Dickson, Miss Jessie Dickson, Mrs. C. C. Estes, Mrs. M. M. Green, Miss Victoria Gilliland, Mrs. J. W. Harb, Mrs. O. C. Harb, Mrs. Sm. Kisner, Mrs. H. W. Lasater, Mrs. N. J. Latimer, Mrs. H. T. Lindsey, Mrs. S. P. Lindsey, Mrs. S. B. Neill, Miss Carrie Osborn, Mrs. G. B. Oliver, Mrs. M. E. Schnable, Mrs. E. V. Sheeks, Mrs. W. T. Stephens, Mrs. A. R. Simpson, Mrs. W. T. Stephens, Mrs. Grace Taylor, Miss Estelle Webb and Mrs. D. Hopson.
The Corning Culture Club continued for five years with Mrs. Beard, Mrs. Beloate, Mrs. Simpson and Mrs. G. B. Oliver serving, in turn, as president.
In 1906 the club was discontinued and Corning was without a woman's club for two or three years. In 1909, the Wednesday Club was organized with much the same membership as the old Culture Club. Mrs. Beard was elected president, followed by Mrs. Eugene Hawks, Mrs. W. D. Polk and Mrs. D. Hopson. During the World War this club adjourned for a period of 18 months but resumed activities soon thereafter.
The Business and Professional Women's Club of Corning was organized January 29, 1930 with 19 members. This club's first president, Miss Birdie Sullins, instrumental in its having been organized, served two years. Mrs. Iva Owen Baker was secretary, Miss Edith Brown, corresponding secretary and Mrs. Ada B. Ousnamer treasurer.
The Pro and Con Club was organized in 1923 with the following as charter members: Mrs. E. P. Day, Mrs. N. N. Steinberg, Mrs. Carl Toalson, Misses Edith Brown, Elsie Teter, Ruth Brown and the late Miss Vana Arnold.
The Corning Study Club was organized early in the fall of 1931. It had for its object study of literature and has a limited membership of 13.
The word Oowala is of Indian origin, meaning beautiful. About 30 years ago this word was selected as the name of a club of 14 young Corning girls organized by Mrs. Willie B. Sheeks and her daughter, Mrs. Maude Sheeks Johnson. Girls over 18 only were admitted as members and meetings every two weeks were strictly social. Mrs. C. M. Reves was this club's first president. At present the club meets every two weeks, as a bridge club. Of these active members only two, Mrs. C. E. Skinner and Mrs. Clyde F. Lasater are of the original 14.
Miss Mazie Barnhill, Palatka, was chosen Queen of Highway 67 celebration at Corning, Monday. Miss Barnhill was crowned by Governor Futrell at close of the ceremony opening Highway 67 from Corning north to the Missouri line. Miss Barnhill's court of honor: Miss Alice Wright, Miss Elizabeth Black, Miss Muriel Harper, Miss Erma Gowen, Miss Zelda Gregory and Miss Alma Polk.
Dr. A. D. Cox, a physician and surgeon, recently of Success, has removed his office to Corning, now in the location formerly occupied by Dr. E. D. Jernigan, local dentist.
A. C. Bailus, 61, well known Corning citizen passed away in a Poplar Bluff hospital last Monday morning of injuries received in a fall on Wednesday of last week while doing janitor work at the local school building. He served as chief of police of Corning for 14 years. 
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney J. L. Taylor was elected city attorney of Corning at a recent meeting of the city council, succeeding City Attorney G. B. Oliver, Jr., who served in that capacity during the past two years.
Checks totaling $14,785.25 will be paid to Clay County farmers next Saturday for cooperation with the federal government in its cotton reduction program this year.
Local citizens, again taking advantage of this town's offer of free labor, are constructing much new concrete sidewalk. Property owners supply all materials for such construction. Miss E. Morrison recently has had paved 192 lineal feet of sidewalk and an 8-foot alley crossing at her residence property at the northeast corner of Main and West Third Streets. P. M. [Maurice] Companiotte is having paved 192 lineal feet of sidewalk and an 8-foot alley crossing adjoining his rental property at the southwest corner of West Third and Elm Streets.
Winners in baby popularity contest held at Coming's New State Theatre last week: Bobby Joe Hannaford, age 3, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Hannaford; Joan Robinson, age seven, daughter of Mrs. Zerna Robinson; Bettie Corbin, age five, daughter of .Mrs. and Mrs. Dean Corbin.
US Highway 62 is to be paved through Corning if money allotted by the National Industrial Recovery Act is expended according to rules and regulations for administering the apportionment.
C.H.S. students are very enthusiastic over the election of a queen for their homecoming game with Piggott. Leading candidates for queen are Miss Elizabeth Black and Miss Mary Lee Raborn.
Since the government public works program has been inaugurated, many citizens and taxpayers in Corning Water and Sewer Improvement District have become interested and desirous to learn if these districts are eligible for loans from the PWA fund for the purpose of refunding outstanding bonds, or in any way refinancing these districts. T. W. Ratcliffe, secretary-treasurer of Corning Water Works District No. 1, recently wrote Congressman W. J. Driver of Osceola, for information regarding a loan from the government to these districts. Last Thursday Congressman Driver advised Ratcliffe that government funds are not available for relief of distressed municipal improvement districts.
A special meeting of the local city council was held last Wednesday evening to work out plans for civic improvements in Corning under the US government's Civil Works Administration, which will spend between $5,000,000 and $7,000,000 in Arkansas before February 15, 1934. Mayor Johnson and the city council outlined plans for several civic projects for Corning, most important of which is the graveling of principal business streets, tile drainage, construction of 7,000 lineal feet of paved sidewalk and 40 paved street crossings.
O. H. Taylor recently moved his variety store from the Webb building to Mr. Taylor's new stucco building, 425 First Street, now open for business.
One of the most attractive decorations of this Christmas season is a large, living, outdoor Christmas tree here in the front yard of Dr. J. M. Oliver and his son, J. M. Jr. on West First Street. The tree, a magnolia, stands 50 feet high and is of perfect pyramidal type.
Sheriff Jack Wallain of Clay County is now equipped to meet any of the most up to date criminals who chance to come this way. Nearly all holdup men carry machine guns. Sheriff Wallain does not care to take any chances in battling such criminals with an ordinary .44, so local citizens and this county recently purchased a new type machine gun for the sheriff's office.
Leasing a tract of land near Corning, with option to buy, will be necessary before an airport can be improved as a CWA project. Local citizens interested in establishing an airport. here have been looking over several tracts of land just west of town, with view toward securing a lease. A tract of 80 acres is needed.

1934
J. M. Schauer, member of a Chicago, Ill., real estate firm, spent a part of this week inspecting farm lands in the Western District of Clay County, preparatory to opening a large real estate office in Corning.
Mayor Wyatt Johnson declined nomination for a fourth term, and two new aldermanic candidates were entered in a mass meeting at the courthouse last Friday evening, when a ticket was nominated for Corning municipal election next April 3rd. The new ticket follows: for mayor, E. V. Grayson; for recorder, H. B. Sheeks; for aldermen, L. E. Allen, J. J. Atkinson, J. B. Belford, J. H. Parkinson and Aubrey Estes.
T. G. Bridges, the dark horse candidate for Mayor, was elected over the regular nominee, E. V. Grayson, in the local municipal election Tuesday. Bridges received 60 votes to Grayson, 54. No opposition in the mayoral race developed until afternoon hours of the election when several supporters of Bridges took to the field. Mayor-elect Bridges, unaware of his candidacy, was out of town Tuesday and Wednesday and did not learn of his election until he returned home yesterday morning.
The biggest little button shop in Arkansas is the way N. N. Steinberg referred to his new plant which began operating here last Wednesday morning. Located in a frame building at the rear of the Steinberg residence lots, corner West Third and Vine, the same plant is equipped with three standard Chalmers machines, powered by electric motors. Three local veteran cutters, Lon Easter, Louis and Cecil Lloyd comprise the force which made the initial start of Arkansas' smallest pearl button industry and which promises to expand rapidly.
Last Saturday midnight was the deadline for operation of slot machines in western Clay County. Last Week, Sheriff Jack Wallain issued "ceased and deceased" orders, under penalty of law to all persons in this district operating slot machines at their places of business or otherwise.
All local churches and civic organizations were represented in a meeting at the relief office here last Tuesday afternoon when Mrs. A. B. Gallegly, Clay County Social Service Director, outlined plans for taking care of aged and sick destitute people of the Western District of this county. Since the Government rehabilitation program makes no provision for assisting this class of persons, it is now up to each community to look after their own aged needy people, Mrs. Gallegly explained.
Corning Novelty Company, believed to be the only manufacturers of pool tables in Arkansas, passed its third milestone last week and is still going strong. Having started three years ago, manufacturing miniature pool tables for sale locally, this company has employed a steady growth and its products are now sold in many states. J. W. Black, a pioneer lumber man of Arkansas, calls the Corning Novelty Company his pet hobby. Past 75 and very active for his age Mr. Black is enthusiastic about possibilities of the little company and frequently makes trips into nearby states selling his company's products.
Graber's Store is celebrating its 19th anniversary in Corning with a sale starting today and continuing throughout next week.
$15,000 concrete highway paving through Corning starts Monday; 50 men to work. Contractors expect to complete job in week. Local labor to benefit in double shifts. Extending Highway 62 through incorporate limits of Corning. The Corning job will cost the government approximately $15,000.
Miss Elizabeth Black, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. G. Black, will represent Corning as "Queen of May" at a Mardi Gras festival in Poplar Bluff on Saturday of next week. 
A special train, 19 cars, of mules, all purchased by the government at Fort Worth, Texas, for distribution to needy Arkansas farmers, arrived in Little Rock first of last week. Approximately 600 mules are included in the shipment.
Announcement has just been made that Dr. J. S. Compere has accepted the permanent pastorship of Corning Baptist Church and will assume his duties here next July 1st.
Corning community canning kitchen is now ready for operation, Mrs. Frank Grayson, supervisor in charge. The local canning kitchen is for use of this entire community and all local citizens who have canning to do are requested to take advantage of this new, modern plant.
Winfred Polk, local government weather observer, said that the official figure for last Tuesday was 111 degrees.
Corning school faculty for the ensuing term, follows: superintendent, E. P. Ennis; high school, Mrs. E. P. Ennis, L. M. Wools, Miss Jewell Machen; seventh grade and music, Miss Rubye McCarroll; sixth, M. B. Allbright; fifth, Mrs. L. M. Wools; fourth, Mrs. H. N. Ratcliffe; third, Mrs. F. C. Bowers, Jr.; second, Mrs. Isobel Wilson; first, Miss Jewell Ratcliffe.
Local officers, assisted by officers of two states and Department of Justice agents, are running every clue, but, so far, no trace has been found of the three young bandits who held up Cashier Ewell Vandover, robbed the Corning Bank and Trust Company and got away with nearly $10,000 last Saturday morning shortly after eight o'clock. The stickup was without a doubt, the smoothest piece of banditry ever perpetrated in this section of country, and the job has every indication of being the work of professionals.
A new, light chocolate colored V8 Ford coupe, used by the robbers in making their escape from Corning and a disabled black Plymouth sedan, into which the robbers transferred soon after making their getaway, were found Saturday afternoon, a few miles northwest of Current River Beach, in a heavily wooded hill section, by Sheriff Jack Wallain and his deputies of Clay County and Sheriff Brooks and his deputies of Randolph County.
Both autos were stolen in East St. Louis. The Ford belongs to an East St. Louis Physician and the Plymouth is owned by Cookson Motor Company of that city.
Shortly after the robbery here, the bandits, cutting across the country from near Current River Beach toward the Pocahontas-Doniphan highway, had traveled about six miles in the Plymouth car when it struck a large rock and the oil pan was cracked.
Trace of the robbers was lost a this point, and it is believed that they made their way on foot into the nearby hills of Missouri.
Near the disabled Plymouth car, in a woodland area were found three suits of men's clothing, a pair of gray trousers, several shirts and caps and a few large caliber, loaded shells, discarded by the robbers. The Plymouth contained an East St. Louis automobile salesman's portfolio and a letter addressed to an East St. Louis woman. All evidence in hand is being thoroughly investigated and officers believe that they have strong clues which will result in identifying several members of the stick up gang.
A light chocolate or brown colored Ford V8 Coupe, occupied by the three robbers, all between 25 and 30 years of age, was parked in front of the bank about seven o'clock that morning, according to Bert Wilkinson, who operates a restaurant adjoining the bank. All three bandits got out of the car and stationed themselves near the bank's side entrance, where they remained for nearly an hour, waiting the arrival of Cashier Vandover. During that time, one of the trio entered Bert's restaurant, brought a drink and looked the place over.
Several local people had noticed the three bandits, but paid no attention to them.
When Vandover stepped into the bank's side entrance, a few minutes past eight o'clock, he noticed one of the robbers sitting on a bottom step of the stairway that leads to the second story of the building. Vandover said the bandit appeared to be asleep, with his head resting on his forearms. "I spoke to him, but he did not move until I unlocked the bank's side door and started to step into the lobby," Vandover said. "Then he did quickly drew a revolver and told me to get inside and he would take it over." A second bandit followed closely behind, locked the door and stood guard in the front part of the lobby, near the door through which we had entered. As we stepped into the bank, the first robber grabbed hold of the back of my coat, pressed a revolver barrel against my back and asked me to open the large ball safe into the lobby. I told him there was no money in that safe. Finally, he directed me to open the vault and told me that I had better not make any mistakes. The time clock on the vault was set for 8 a.m. I unlocked the vault door and we entered the vault, all the while this robber gripped my coat and remained behind me. I handed him all of the cash in sight, $9,560, and he stuffed it into a long white sack. The loot consisted of $3,000 in old $1 bills, about $300 in silver and the remainder in old and new $5 bills. The bandits did not appear to be in a hurry, and neither of them at any time was nervous or excited. They were in the bank fully ten minutes. As they were leaving the leader told me "stand in there and don't come out." I quickly called the telephone operator up stairs and she sounded the alarm. 
Many local citizens saw the bandits before the holdup was staged and several watched them leave the bank and speed down Second Street, but their presence aroused no suspicion, because many cotton men and timber men frequently drive to the bank early in the morning and wait arrival of the Clay County Cotton Co. and J. W. Black Lumber Co. officials, who occupy upstairs offices in the bank building.
This was the first bank robbery ever staged in Corning; however, local citizens have been expecting a bank stickup here since completion of good roads which make escape easy. Four banks have been robbed in Clay County by hold up men and, in every instance, the robbers have been killed or caught. The former bank of Greenway was burglarized about 17 years ago. On another occasion, a robber attempted to stick up the cashier of the Knobel bank, but it was frustrated, and he got two years in the end.
Within a week following the robbery of the Corning Bank and Trust Co., of nearly $10,000, local officers have arrested the man who assisted the stick up trio in their escape into Missouri in a borrowed automobile, have learned the positive identity of one of the robbers and apprehended another man suspected of being a member of the bandit gang. Solution of the robbery was brought about through efforts of Sheriff Jack Wallain of Piggott, his deputy R. R. Ruff of Corning and Sheriff Brooks and his deputies of Randolph County, who have worked constantly on the case. Harold Hogan of Maynard, Randolph County, and Cecil W. Worsham of St. Louis are jailed in Corning, the former charged with assisting the robbers in their escape and Worsham as a suspect in the actual robbery. Federal officers are now looking for Howard Hogan of St. Louis, a brother of Harold Hogan charged with being one of the three who stuck up the bank.
B. P. Howell and Arch Cook of Peach Orchard were Corning business visitors last Tuesday. Howell, 35, weighs 381 pounds and doubtless, is the biggest man in Clay County. He is a blacksmith.
Three masked boys entered the local Sinclair Service Station last Sunday, shortly after 7 p.m., held up Ralph Ballard, attendant, and Otto Law, a bystander, and robbed Ballard of $4.95. Upon entering the station, one of the robbers covered Ballard and Law with a revolver while another member of the gang switched off the lights. Ballard and Law were then gagged, their hands bound with electric wire, and both youths were thoroughly searched, while another robber pried open a cash register and took $3.53. No money was obtained from Law.

1935
A bullet mold and caper for muzzle loading rifles and revolvers was found a few days ago on a farm owned by Mrs. Annie Day, near Datto. Sylvester Hays found the relic in a freshly plowed field.
E. G. Ward and W. O. Irby, both claimants of the Clay County judgeships, were still holding forth late yesterday afternoon, each presiding with all authority of that office. W. O. Irby, who was certified as the winner over this opponent E. R. Winton in the August primary, was sworn in last Monday morning by Circuit Clerk L. E. Parsons and immediately entered upon the duties of the judge's office, while Judge Ward, incumbent, is holding over upon advice from Attorney General Walter L. Pope, until an election contest suit, filed by Mr. Winton shall have been heard.
John Allen Magee had his first local exhibition in magic and sleight-of-hand, at Bunny's Skating Rink last Friday evening and was well received by a packed house.
Nearly every business firm in Corning was represented at a meeting held at the Corning Bank and Trust Company, building last Monday evening in response to a call by Mayor Bridges for discussion of a plan to employ an extra night watchman for greater protection of local places of business against burglary. Several Corning stores have repeatedly been burglarized during the recent months and local business men have devised a plan for raising additional funds to pay for an extra night watchman. The plan provides for a voluntary assessment of from 50 cents to $3 for each business firm, payable monthly and the two men to be placed on the night police duty are first to be recommended by a secret committee of three local businessmen. Mayor Bridges is to employ and direct the night police as to their duties and discharge them if they fail to be efficient.
Howard Hogan, 24, alias Charles Walker, wanted for the $9,650 robbery of the Corning Bank and Trust Company last October 6th and several robberies in Missouri, was arrested in Springfield, Mo., last Sunday night by police of that city, and his companion, Peter Raster, a Missouri ex-convict, was shot and wounded when officers found the pair in a stolen automobile. Police traced Hogan and Raster to the stolen car, found parked on a side street, and Raster was shot when he is said to have resisted arrest. Raster was armed with two revolvers. Upon learning Hogan's identify, Springfield officers called Deputy Sheriff R. R. Ruff, notifying him of Hogan's capture, and Tuesday morning Sheriff Jack Wallain, Deputy Ruff, J. B. Belford and B. Wilkerson, owner of Bert's Cafe, drove up to Springfield to question Hogan. Later that day Hogan was removed to Alton, Mo., where he will be tried for robbery of the Bank of Grandin Mo. Hogan, charged with the Grandin robbery committed almost a year ago, was apprehended soon after that robbery, but was released on bond, pending trial at Alton, after he obtained a change of venue from Carter County to Oregon County. Hogan failed to make his appearance for trial at Alton, and Missouri officers were looking for him when the Corning Bank robbery was staged.
Harold Hogan is alleged to have positively identified his brother Howard Hogan as one of the trio who robbed the Corning Bank and Trust Company of nearly $10,000 last October. Hogan is scheduled to be tried some time next month on a charge of robbing the Bank of Grandin in which $400 was taken. If he is not convicted, Missouri authorities will turn him over to face the Corning Bank robbery charge, it was said.
Waters from Black River overflowed the levee opposite Moark in several places near midnight Wednesday, inundating thousands of acres of land between the Missouri Pacific railroad and Black River south of the Arkansas-Missouri state line. Tuesday, residents of Black River flood district were warned of the impending break and many had already moved out with livestock and what personal property they could salvage. The crest of the flood was reached at Moark Wednesday about midnight and the greatest rise just east of Corning was expected sometime last night or early today. The levee east of Moark was dynamited in two places about 4:30 last Monday morning. Citizens residing in that district were awakened by the blasts and quickly repaired the breaks. The floodwater at that time had not risen to a point high enough to flow through the blasted crevasses. Blasting of the levee was done to relieve flooded farm lands in Missouri, it is believed. Another break in the levee system along Black River occurred in the Big Gun district levee about five miles southeast of Corning last Wednesday. Records of that Black River's previous highest level known here occurred in the early morning of Monday April 18, 1927, when 300 feet of the Missouri Pacific RR dump just south of Corning was ripped out, and three miles of track between Knobel was under water.
Floodwater from Current River early this week reached the highest stage on record in Clay and Randolph counties, sweeping over an area extending from three miles wide, with great damage to property and loss to livestock. Louis Pringle operating a motor powered barge, and Dan Harold with a motorboat, assisted by local workers, removed about 60 persons, many head of livestock and much household goods to high ground. Most of the flood victims spent Wednesday night and last night in Datto, most of whom slept in empty store buildings and garages and were fed by Datto citizens.
Corning grammar school honor roll, month of February: first grade; Charles Albright, Chester Bracken, Faye Miller, Margaret Ann Hicks, Jody Gallegly, Jacky Townsend, Milicent Cobb, Mildred Brown, Rachel Bailey, Johnny Mack Ward, Fonzine Huddleston, Carl Whitledge, Bernard Ousnamer, Loma Lee Stephens. Second grade; Emmett Hastens, Les Woods, Billy Johns, Buddy Bridges, Hannah Oliver Joel Price Tharp, Tommy Grayson, Dixie Polk, Dale Gobel, Elmer Smith, J. C. Hollis, Hazel Ruth Long, Mary Francis Ford, L. H. Mizell, Kathleen Wynn, Sally Hardesty, Ralph Keller, Norma Jean Gage, Faye Pierce, Alta Romine, Marylea Vines, Kathryn Redwine and Helen Rogers.
One of Corning's old landmarks, a frame business on the northwest corner of West First and Vine Streets, opposite the Missouri Pacific passenger station, is being razed by its owner Wm. Felsberg. This building erected in the early 90s was occupied by several important and prosperous firms in Corning's early days. J. W. Harb, for many years operated a general mercantile establishment there. Later Jas. Johnson operated a saloon in the same building. After liquor was voted out, Jim Langdon operated a big restaurant there for several years.
The town of Corning, in a special election held last Wednesday, voted to prohibit the sale of liquor by nearly an eight to one majority. The official count was 100 against and 15 for the sale of liquor. This was the first local option election on the liquor question in Corning since 1898, when saloons were voted out. At present, the only retail liquor store in Clay County, operating under the present Thorn liquor law is located at Peach Orchard.
Prof. J. B. Kiersey, local musician and orchestra director, reported to officers that he was held up and shot by a lone bandit near the western limits of Corning last Sunday night at about 11 o'clock, while driving to his home near Success. Kiersey said that a youthful bandit jumped onto the running board of his automobile as it rounded the curve at the junction of US Highways 67 and 62. The robber covered and commanded him to "keep driving and keep quiet." After he had driven about two miles Keirsey said that he grappled with the bandit and was shot once in the right hand, the bullet passing between his thumb and index finger. He said that the bandit then quickly searched him and took $2 from his hip pocket and disappeared.
At a regular monthly meeting of the local town council, held last Monday evening, after routine business was transacted, the council voted an increase in Police Chief Ralph Parrish's salary, from $60 to $75 per month and issued orders that all moneys collected by him should be turned in to Recorder B. E. Redwine.
Corning School Superintendent G. A. Lamb reports that registration on the opening day here last Monday totaled 517.
M. B. Ainley, Leon (Wimpy) Jolly and others in the morning, at the rear of Woods and Ainley store, routed a large number of rats beneath a ware room floor and killed 35 or 40 with a baseball bat.
One of the most important building improvements now being added to Corning business district was started last Monday, construction of a modern brick office building by Charles R. Black on his newly acquired lot located at the northwest corner of West First and Vine Streets, opposite the Missouri Pacific passenger station. Mr. Black will remove his offices from the second floor of the Corning Bank and Trust and Company to his new building.
James E. Matthews, 72, pioneer resident of Corning and a former sheriff of Clay County, died at his home in Little Rock at noon last Tuesday following a brief illness. He was a native of Illinois and removed to Corning in 1879, among his early enterprises was the first telephone system at Corning, which he built and operated for several years. Later he built the St. James Hotel which became widely known for its slogan, "This Hotel Has as Good as Salt and Toothpicks as Any Hotel." The hotel was of brick, two story construction, one of the best in northeast Arkansas for that day and attracted a lucrative patronage. It was destroyed by fire, and a few years later Mr. Matthews erected another hotel on the southwest corner of Main and West First Streets, which retained the same name. His second hotel was sold a few years later to the late Wm. Stephens and it was operated by that family for many years, or until it burned in 1929. Mr. Matthews served as Sheriff of Clay County from 1910 to 1911 when he removed with his family to Little Rock.
E. E. (Bert) Clarkson farms 80 acres up near the Arkansas-Missouri state line, near Corning, in Clay County, Arkansas. A rugged, sunburned individual, Mr. Clarkson impresses you at once with his utter capability of properly looking after himself and his own. He looked after his own again this year, winning first place in The Commercial Appeal's $1,550 Plant to Prosper competition in Clay County. He is eligible for the state contest and will be invited to the annual Plant to Prosper dinner at Memphis on December 11.
L. L. Fowler, a popular local young business man, closed a deal last Saturday by which he became owner of the Hubble (formerly Cantwell) cleaning and pressing business.
The newly elected city officials are: P. L. Oliver, mayor; B. E. Redwine, recorder and Wyatt Johnson, Joe H. Parkinson, J. H. Hardesty, N. N. Steinberg and Aubrey Estes, aldermen. Only 48 votes were polled in one of the quietest municipal elections held here in years.
J. B. Kiersey, recently of Ft. Scott, Kansas, is organizing a symphony orchestra in Corning. Those who have enrolled in this new music unit are: Miss Rubye McCarroll, piano; R. M. Houdek, clarinet; saxophone; C. E. Gage, trombone and string instruments; R. M. Humbill, violin: Dan Snodgrass, trumpet; Miss Frances Harold, clarinet; Lowell Gibbs, clarinet; Arthur Woods, saxophone and L. G. Black, Jr., saxophone.
Jerry L. Halbert, 85, a well known resident of Corning, was instantly killed here last Wednesday morning at 6:29 by fast passenger train No. 26, northbound Missouri Pacific Sunshine Social. The accident happened at the most important grade crossing in Corning, that of Elm Street and US Highway 62, as Mr. Halbert was leisurely walking east to view the floodwater near the foot of Elm Street.
Two men, one in jail here and another held at Alton, Mo., probably will be tried eventually for the $10,000 robbery of the Corning Bank and Trust Company, a somewhat spectacular affair last October, followed by an all day chase in Clay and Randolph counties. Sheriff Deputies R. R. Ruff and J. M. Rice and W. H. Grayson, local night policeman, a few days ago went to Springfield, Mo., and returned Peter F. Raster to Corning to await action of the next grand jury. Three men took part in the robbery. Only two are in custody, excepting the brother. who had no part in the actual robbery.
Candidates for graduation from Corning High School are: Virginia Elliott, Gwendolyn Adams, Retha P. Hubble, Alma Mae Hubble, Wilma L. Tinsley, Grace G. Pry, Helen J. Hughey, Frances Annis Harold, Marion Willistine Cherry, Margaret Louise Johnson, Anna Rae Blackwood and Mary Lee Raborn, Roy Brown, Harvey Sharpe, Clifton C. Schride, Paul Allbright, Doyne H. Smelser, Daniel Willfred Harold, John Allan Magee, James Edwin Tucker; Frederick Ogden Ratcliffe, Thaddeus Kellett, Remmel H. James. Othel J. Handley, Reuben W. Ashby, Elmo Garrett, Patrick Dove, Dorman Dismang, Roy Penter, Dill Sloan, Sterling Nidever and Herbert Dicus.
Corning Public Library was opened last Tuesday with Mrs. Mary Beard in charge as librarian. The old K. of P. lodge rooms, over the Ben Franklin store have been rented, and a collection of over 200 volumes has been assembled. The library is a community project, supported by the local American Legion and the Wednesday Club. The following. citizens are members of its board: Mrs. L. G. Black, Mrs. W. D. Polk, Mrs. E. V. Sheeks,. J. M. Oliver, W. W. Henry and T. G. Bridges.
A petition, containing names of more than 50 percent of qualified voters in the town of Corning, asking for an election to decide the question of granting license for sale of legalized liquor in this town, has been filed with County Judge Ward. We have been informed that Judge Ward has agreed to call the election for next July 31st.
At a regular monthly meeting of the Corning Town Council last Monday evening, Ralph Parrish was elected police chief of Corning, succeeding Eugene V. Grayson, who has resumed employment. with the Missouri Pacific signal maintenance department with headquarters in Augusta.
Gordon A. Lamb of Bono, popular former Corning High School teacher and Superintendent of Biggers Public Schools during the recent year, has been elected superintendent of Corning Public Schools for the ensuing year, according to announcement of the local board of education.
Hogan and Raster each get fifteen years for Corning Bank. robbery. Fifteen years in the Arkansas penitentiary was the sentence imposed here in circuit court last Tuesday upon Howard Hogan and Peter Raster for the $9,960 robbery of the Corning Bank and Trust Company last October 6th.
John Pace, age 70, prominent. resident of Palatka community, was knocked in the head and robbed near his home late last Saturday and officers are looking for a man who got only 15 cents, a nickel's worth of chewing tobacco and a small pocket knife from Pace.
An Oliver Grain Master combine was recently purchased by Eddie Ahrent and Roy Creek through J. M. Rhea, local Oliver farm equipment dealer. On this same farm 27 years ago, the late Wm. Ahrent, father of Eddie Ahrent, cut his wheat with an old fashioned binder. It was a slow and laborious task, with horse power only. Threshing machines in those days were few and a farmer had to wait his turn, perhaps many weeks, before his wheat harvest could be completed.

1936
Our readers attention is called to a financial statement of The Corning Bank and Trust Company printed in today's Courier. This statement placed The Corning Bank and Trust Company among the very strongest banks in Arkansas.
A deal was closed last Monday by which Bub Arnold became owner of the Bridges' Drug and Jewelry Store in Corning.
J. R. Briney and H. W. Lasater had a birthday anniversary last Saturday, February 29th, their first in four years, and that occasion was fittingly celebrated at the Briney family and a goodly number of their friends.
Nineteen girls and boys, attending Corning High School, will be candidates for graduation at the close of the current school year which ends May 22nd. Following are members of the senior class: June Arnold, L. G. Black, Jr., Nellie Charlton, Arthur Cox, Winfield Ellis, Earlene Fitzgerald, Beatrice Goodman, James Hubbard, Kenneth Harmon, Wade Henderson, Jimmie Rider, Verneal Ruff, Vernon Ruff, Edith Smalley, Conlee Troxel, Jessie Wright, Isabel Wynn and Lena Crafton.
In an election held at the Corning Elementary School, with regular pupils of the first six grades being eligible as candidates, Miss Paula Oliver of the fifth grade, in a very close race, won over Miss Lorene Hughes, a fourth grader to be named queen of the May Day Festival. Miss Oliver will serve the grades as their queen and Miss Hughes automatically becomes maid of honor. Misses Dorothy Leah Black, Ruth Nelson, Regina Rhea, Violet Smith, Altina Lester, Gwennedene McGuire, Mary Margaret Ryder, Vonda Johnston, Nettie Mae Niswonger and Joann Belford are to be the queen's attendants.
Tomorrow, Saturday, afternoon between 2 and 3 o'clock, J. R. Wisdom will pay off an election bet by pushing one Ally (Snide) Snider in a wheel barrow from the north end to the south end of West Second Street, thence to the north end of West First Street. The take off will be staged promptly on time, Mayor Oliver and Chief of Police Pittman have agreed to furnish protection, so that Snide can take a nonstop ride and Wisdom can push his 190 cargo without interference or delay. Those two streets recently have been graded for the big event. 
Dr. J. S. Schirmer, a well known local physician and surgeon, recently bought of the American Surety Company, the Blackwood residence property in northwest Corning, and is having that property rebuilt for a modern hospital which he expects to open on or about August 1st. Dr. Schirmer said that the hospital will be equipped to take care of 15 patients at a time. The surgical staff will comprise Dr. Schirmer, Dr. L. L. Marshall of Research Hospital, Little Rock, Dr. Hugh O. Turentine of Little Rock, the latter a specialist of operations in the head. The hospital will be in charge of Dr. Schirmer and an intern. The nurse staff will be composed of Mrs. Schirmer, Miss Lillie _____ of Research Hospital, Little Rock, Miss L. Frazier of the US Public Health Service and Mrs. Poag of the Arkansas State Hospital, all registered nurses.
As a test case of the legality of a section of Ordinance No. 208 of the Town of Corning, which prohibits dancing in connection with places of business, J. R. Blunk, proprietor of Blunk's Beer Garden was, last Tuesday, assessed a fine of $100 and costs by Mayor P. L. Oliver for alleged violation of said ordinance. Mr. Blunk expects to appeal his case to circuit court. Attorney J. L. Taylor represents the Town of Corning and Attorney H. Bloodworth represents the defendant.
The city council last Monday evening designated certain streets in the business district of Corning within a parking zone and fixed new rules. Corning City Council, cooperating with the local school board, has appointed Police Chief Pittman as truant officer. Parents will be held responsible for children under 16 years of age found the streets of Corning after 8:30 a.m. unless children are on business errands or accompanied by their parents.
On Wednesday morning of last week at six o'clock the Arkansas-Missouri Power Co. tied-in with the electric distribution system formerly operated by the Clay County Ice Co., and began to service all patrons on those lines. Sale of the Clay County Ice Company's electric distribution system to the Arkansas-Missouri Power Co. was approved last September 2nd.
Roosevelt Sweeps Nation. Maine, Vermont only states carried by Republicans: Landslide for New Deal.
Shipment of the sixth car of radishes from Corning this season was made last night and with continued favorable weather two more cars are expected to leave here before the end of the week.
Mayor P. L. Oliver has appointed the following citizens to serve as members of the Corning Volunteer Fire Department during the present administration of the city council: F. A. Harold, chief; H. B. Sheeks, assistant chief; Guy B. Crutchfield, driver; Robert (Buck) Motsinger and Robert Huddleston, electricians; R. H. Powell, Elmo Garrett, Percy Bailey, Floyd Baker, Glenn Sharp and Jesse (Dink) Motsinger, nozzle man and Lucien Bailey, hydrant and hose man.
Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Smith, recently of Rector, are this week opening a bakery shop in the south room of the building, 911 West Second Street, formerly occupied by the Fair Store.
W. Earl Polk will assume charge as Corning's postmaster next Wednesday, July 1st. His appointment was confirmed by the US Senate last June 2 and yesterday he received his commission for this office for a period of four years, signed by President Roosevelt and Postmaster General Farley.
J. H. Magee, who has served as Corning postmaster during the recent four years, will devote time for the present to his farm interests in Palatka.
John Casinger of Reyno claims of being the oldest living native of Corning. We would not dare challenge Mr. Casinger's claim, and if and person can prove birth and residence on the present town site of Corning more that 74 years ago, it is up to him to come forward with the proof, for Uncle John has told us more pioneer history of this old town than we have ever heard before.
Uncle John's parents, Dan and Nancy Casinger, drove over by team and wagon from Kentucky in 1861 and built a home on a small plot of ground about one-fourth mile north of the present Missouri Pacific freight depot, it what is now Corning. There he cleared a small acreage of land and began farming. One year later, in 1862, John Casinger was born and during the ten or 12 years time that followed, several more children were born to this pioneer couple, but the children died at an early age. Uncle John says that half a dozen families lived on the present townsite when he was a small child, nearly ten years before the Old Iron Mountain Railroad was built through Corning.
As a climax of one week of carnival spirit, the students and patrons of Corning High School last Friday evening crowned Miss Virginia Smith of Success, the Corning Harvest Queen. The five upper grades in high school selected a candidate for each grade and votes were counted at the rate of one for one cent. At a voting, previously Bix Box, a junior from Knobel, was selected as the Prince Charming to crown the queen. Queen attendants were Miss Mary Wilkerson, 12th grade; Miss Camille Futrell, 11th grade; Miss Edna Allensworth, 8th grade; Frank Dahmus, 12th grade; Ted Dove, 10th grade; Elmer Wilcoxson 9th grade and Johnny Gallegly, eighth grade. Flower girls were Sally Black and Margaret Ann Hicks: crown bearer, Bobby Joe Hannaford. Miss Violet Sharpe was selected as the best amateur for her vocal number: Miss Camille Futrell and Frank Bennett were second and a trio, John Oliver Black, Sammy Ratcliffe and Billy Atkinson won third place. Mrs. Ezra Burns received the giveaway quilt: Mrs. Smalley, the electric sandwich toaster: T. C. Gallegly, the food basket: the electric lamp and D. L. Ousnamer, the fruit cake.
Clay County Tax Assessor-elect, A. B. Wheeler of Piggott, announces that he has selected Esq. B. C. England as his deputy for the Western District. England has been employed in the assessor's office here for several months each year by Assessor Mizell.

1937
Belief that J. Will Jordan, aged about 42, local news dealer, has drowned himself in Corning Lake, was strengthened Tuesday when Virgil York, a local man, reported that he had found Will's cap on the lake trestle, just south of Corning. He disappeared last Friday afternoon, soon after telling several of his local friends that he intended to drown himself in the same place that another local man committed suicide a few years ago. Citizens have been dragging the lake daily, but bad weather and swift currents, due to a sudden rise in the lake, have made work of recovering the body difficult. S. P. Lindsey of Cabool, Mo., brother-in-law of Mr. Jordan, last Wednesday employed an expert diver from Memphis who arrived yesterday afternoon. Mr. Lindsey has offered a substantial cash reward for recovery of Will's body. Will's disappearance first was announced at noon Saturday by Mayor P. L. Oliver, proprietor of the Crystal Drug Store, where Will Jordan kept his newsstand. Will was the younger son of the late Judge and Mrs. Jordan, pioneer Corning residents, brother of Mrs. S. P. Lindsey of Cabool and J. L. Lindsey of St. Louis. In addition to his physical handicap, Will had been in ill health as a result of burns sustained in the St. James Hotel fire here several years ago.
Among the strongest banks in Arkansas is the Corning Bank and Trust Company, as shown by its financial statement printed in today's Courier. The statement is as of December 31, the date fixed by the State Banking Department. The Corning Bank and Trust Company statement not only indicates an expansion in deposits, but reflects a strong condition of liquidity which enables the bank to pay off all deposits on demand. Total assets of this bank are rapidly approaching the half million dollar mark and benefits to the community by this institution have contributed much to the recovery of local business.
Introducing Stum-Mix, Dr. Cox's stomach and bowel mixture for young and old. Contains no narcotics. Price 35 cents. Ask your druggist for it. Prepared by Dr. A. D. Cox. Corning, Arkansas.
Floodwaters from Black River here is expected to approach within a few inches of the highest record of March 1935, according to government engineers, who have been on the job since Saturday. Rainfall since last Tuesday night totaled about four inches and on Wednesday night an additional seven-inch rise was recorded at Corning. The floodwater level yesterday at 5 p.m. in east Corning was exactly 35 inches under the highest record known, March 1935. A heroic effort to prevent a break in the west levee just east of Moark was abandoned last Monday morning when water started running over the dike in several places, and quickly a section of the levee washed out, flooding a wide area between the Missouri Pacific right of way and Black River. US Highway 62 just east of here was closed to traffic Tuesday afternoon
Last Monday, exactly one month from the day Will Jordan, local news dealer, drowned himself in Corning Lake, his body was found floating a short distance from the Missouri Pacific trestle from which he jumped, ending his life. His body was recovered by local fishermen, James Bracken and J. W. Dillon, the former residing near the lake.
Monday and Tuesday Sheriff Dan McLeod was in town warning all owners and operators of slot machines to discontinue their practices.
Raymond Moyer, Clay County WPA engineer, announced one day last week to the Corning school that the Works Progress Administration has approved plans for a $10,000 football and general recreation field at Corning, the WPA to furnish approximately 85 percent of the cost, local donors supplying the remainder. This is the first big WPA project to benefit Corning. Included is the buying of a plot of ground suitable for the field, grading and leveling the plot of five acres and sodding it; erection of an eight foot wooden fence enclosure, installation of floodlights for night ball playing and stationary and movable bleachers, erection of a field house with shower baths, grading and cindering a standard one fourth mile track outside the playing field and graveling a parking space on all sides of the field.
A financial state of the town of Corning, as of March 1, 1937. furnished by Recorder B. E. Redwine, shows a cash balance of $845.95. The statement also shows no outstanding script. When Mayor P. L. Oliver assumed office, the treasury had a cash balance of only $3.60, an outstanding scrip totaled more than $800. Since that time this town has been put on a cash basis, and scrip is dollar for dollar. Mayor Oliver has conducted Corning's municipal affairs in a business like and efficient manner, giving much of his personal time.
One of Corning's oldest landmarks, a warehouse, completely filled with baled hay, built 50 years ago by merchant E. A. Kelly and his brother, A. M. (Bud) Kelly, a well known local carpenter, was destroyed by fire last Tuesday just before midnight. The structure and its contents, mostly baled hay, valued at about $1,500, the feedstuff, only having been the property of Woods and Ainley, local merchants. The old wareroom was used by the firm of Klein and Rosenblum for many years after Mr. Kelly retired from the mercantile business.
Corning's new State Theatre, under construction on a lot just north of the Sunshine Cafe and Hotel here, nearing completion, is expected to be opened within the next two weeks. The building is being erected by L. G. Black for lease to Mrs. Ann Hutchins and G. L. Hutchins, owners and operators of the State Theatre. Contractor A. W. Ahrent is in charge. Mrs. W. M. Ward, owner of the building to be vacated by the State Theatre, announced yesterday that she will resume operation in the same building under the name of Ward Theatre within two weeks. Mrs. Ward and her husband, the late W. M. Ward, operated the Starlight Theatre here for many years. She has arranged for purchase of the latest sound equipment and expects to completely overhaul and redecorate her theatre.
The number of books now in Corning Library is something over 1,000 and the present aim is to bring the circulation for April up to 1,000. Circulation for February was 893. Mrs. W. E. Polk last week sent ten books to the library and Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Oliver this week brought in 18. Through kindness of the Black Lumber Company and Clyde Lasater, a set of new shelves has been placed in the library room but, on account of the book collections growing at such rapid rate, other shelves will have to be added. Thanks to Orville W. Taylor for placing in the library each week a current number of the Saturday Evening Post. 
The former D. L. Bennett residence on the west bank of Black river, just north of US Highway 62 bridge, two miles east of Corning, one of the few old landmarks of western Clay County, was destroyed by fire at ten o'clock last Wednesday morning. Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Briscoe, occupants, lost practically all their household furnishings.
The largest individual gift ever presented to Corning School District was recently made by F. B. Sprague, the gift is a valuable $3,000 plot of ground in northwest Corning to be used as a football and general recreation field. Sprague executed the deed to the school district on March 10 and construction work was immediately started on a $10,000 athletic field project, by the Works Progress Administration. 
Announcement, I have bought the Holt Furniture Store on West Second Street and have assumed charge. Niswonger Furniture Store, J. Oscar Niswonger, proprietor, Corning, Ark. 
Corning municipal town election will be held next Tuesday. Following is the ticket: for mayor, P. L. Oliver: for recorder, B. E. Redwine: for aldermen, J. H. Hardesty, Wyatt Johnson, Aubrey Estes, N. N. Steinberg and S. Futrell. Election judges are O. J. Harold, O. L. Woods and A. D. Downs; clerks are Miss Birdie Sullins and Miss Edith Brown.
Corning W.M.S. will serve chicken dinner in the Gallegly building next Tuesday, April 6. Plate, 35 cents.
In the annual May Day Queen contest held at the local school, Miss Virginia Smith of the sixth grade won over all opponents and consequently will be crowned May Day Queen at the local gymnasium on Friday night, April 30. In the run off contest, two candidates were selected from each of the three elementary grades those candidates being: fourth grade, Hannah Oliver and Thelma Walker; fifth grade, Lorene Hughes and Peggy Jean Frazier; sixth grade, Virginia Smith and Helen Bailey.
A sit-down strike at the local radish shipping plant late last Monday afternoon was quickly terminated Tuesday morning when W. T. Lane, large radish broker and buyer of the local crop, telephoned his manager J. N. Rankin, to "close up" the plant and come home. The workers struck for higher wages when they received their pay checks Monday. The women and girl radish packers contended that they should have received 15 cents per hour instead of ten cents an hour, as they said had been promised them, and the washers, drawing the same wages, joined in the sit-down through sympathy. The local radish plant employees about 25 people. Mrs. Floyd Baker, one of the leaders and spokesman for the strikers, said that the manager of the company had refused to tell them the rate of pay for their work, and other workers said that they were promised an increase of five cents per hour and were working with that understanding. The workers also protested against the long hours without extra pay rate, the crew remaining on the job until after midnight several times and that during the recent cold weather it was unreasonable to expect one to work in cold water at night for only ten cents per hour. When Lane was told of the strike situation, he instructed Manager J. N. Rankin to send all radishes on hand to Monette from which point they would be packed and shipped. The strikers quickly started action to prevent removal of the radishes. The strike was settled Tuesday morning when 12 of the strikers were paid for work done the day before and the 12 left the plant. Rankin resumed operations at the radish shed late Tuesday afternoon with 12 new workers and 12 of his former employees, at no increase in pay.
Following is a list of candidates for graduation from Corning High School: Ruth Baker, Roy Cochran, Elsie Crafton, Frank Dahmus, Leo Dahmus, Shelton Futrell, Lowell Gibbs Marguerite Harold, Julia Hettel, Ernest Lee Holloway, Berniece Kellett, Wanda Koester, Earl Mizell, Ethel Myers, Berniece McCall, Annie Lee Ratcliffe, Rheda Rice, Wyeta Simpson, Geraldine Vines, Paul Walls, Mary Wilkerson, Glendon Wilson, Ester King, Roy Crites and Mary Eleanor Wilcoxon.
Rev. T. Richard Reed, for many years a pastor of Corning Pentecostal Church, and whose charge is now with the Trumann church, is receiving thousands of letters and cards each week in praise of his recent weekly sermons known as the "Blessed Old Bible Hour."
Lucien's Orchestra, popular local group of young musicians, will play this evening for the Junior-Senior High School Banquet and dance at Doniphan. Lucien Fowler's orchestra is composed of the following members: J. E. Butler, piano; Lucien Fowler, trumpet and saxophone; Lowell Gibbs, clarinet; Don Thomasson, trumpet; Roy Crites and Paul Walls, guitars; Howard Green, drums; Elmer Wilcoxon, violin and Miss Camille Futrell, talented young singer.
Selection of Corning Public and High School faculty for next year is now practically complete, according to announcement made one day this week by the school board members who have employed the following: R. D. Haynes of Paragould, superintendent. High school : Miss Jewel Machen, Miss Rosemary Hoffman and Professor Lynn Fretts. Grade school, Miss Grace Napier, Mrs. Charles Bowers, Jr., Miss Marie Oates, Mrs. Isobel Wilson, Mrs. R. D. Hayes and Miss Zelphia Hulen.
A. L. Hines of Memphis, driver of a Missouri Pacific bus, was killed and seven passengers injured, four of them critically, in a bus wreck on Highway 67 five miles north of the Arkansas- Missouri state line at 2:20 last Tuesday. The driver apparently lost control of the bus and it slipped off the shoulder of the blacktop highway and overturned in a deep ditch.
Orlando Charles Harb, a well known former Corning resident, passed away at his home in Little Rock on Wednesday of last week. He was a member of one of Corning's pioneer families, was the youngest son of the late Dr. and Mrs. W. B. Harb. He was born in Van Wert, Ohio on January 9, 1864, and removed with his parents to Corning in August, 1876. In 1900 he removed to Little Rock. He will be remembered by many older local citizens, as a businessman of Corning, operating a bakery for several years near the old St. James Hotel, which properties burned on lots now occupied by G. B. Oliver's law office.

1938
A meeting of the boards of all Corning churches was held on December 28th when a new organization was formed to be known as "The Men of the Churches." The following churchmen were elected: J. M. Oliver, chairman; J. M. Rhea, vice chairman; and W. M. Fowler, secretary; C. L. Bailey, treasurer.
Mr. and Mrs. Wilfred Meadows recently moved from Corning to Poplar Bluff where they have reentered business. During their stay in Corning they formed many close friends in business, church and social circles.
L. G. Black, owner of Corning State Theatre building, recently destroyed by fire, announced this morning that construction work on a larger and even more modern theatre building would start within the next few days at the same location. Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Hutchins and Gordon Lee Hutchins will again operate the new State Theatre.
Mrs. Albert Smith, 36, prominent resident of Richwoods community just west of Corning, was abducted by a man and a woman near the western limit of Corning last Monday evening about 10:15 as she was returning alone to her home by automobile after attending a meeting of the local Rebekah Lodge. She escaped two hours later under gunfire about five miles south of Pocahontas.
Fifty-five members of Corning's newly organized Young Men's Civic Club and seven visiting club members from other towns in northeast Arkansas were present at the club's first monthly dinner served by ladies of the local PTA in the school gymnasium last Monday evening. G. A. Lamb, president of the local club, introduced several Young Men's Civic Club officers and other prominent businessmen of northeast Arkansas.
Arthur Lynn Brown, 69, pioneer local attorney and insurance agent, passed away at his home in west Corning last Sunday. Mr. Brown, a native of Allegan, Mich., removed to Arkansas at the age of 10, with his father, the late Dr. George Brown and brother, Clayton, locating at Old Reyno. Two years later, the family removed to Corning. His early education was received in Corning school and he was graduated from Valparaiso, Ind., University with degrees of AB and LLD in 1896, and in that year he was admitted to the practice of law in all courts in Arkansas. Brown held the position of deputy prosecuting attorney for the Western District of Clay County for many years and served as local agent for the Union Central life insurance company for more than 30 years. A resident of Corning for almost 60 years, he was a member of Corning First Church, South.
George Benjamin Clagg, age 77, a resident of Corning for 54 years, passed away last Friday in a Poplar Bluff hospital. He was born in Gallia County, Ohio, on February 29, 1860. He removed to Corning in 1884 and for 20 years was in the barber business with his brother, S. L. He was a member of the Church of Christ since 1883.
A Trades Day for Corning will be held one day each week, beginning in about two weeks. On that day local merchants will sponsor many inducements to bring people of this trade area to Corning. A community public auction, to be conducted by a licensed auctioneer on each Trade Day, will be held at Arnold and Harold barn in east Corning.
Corning school eighth grade Who's Who contest winners: cutest girl, Joann Belford; cutest, most athletic, sportiest, silliest and most likable boy, Sammy Ratcliffe; prettiest, most popular, studious and likable girl, Gussie Dee Smith; most popular, handsome, conceited, studious and talented, John Oliver Black; most conceited, Lucille Wisdom; most athletic and sportiest, Louise Gallegly; most bashful, Nettie Mae Niswonger and J. B. Smith; most talented girl, Violet Smith. 
Senior class members are: Ludena Fitzgerald, Eddie Mae Wright, Mildred Schirmer, Bobbie Smith, Alfreda Mizell, Louise Smalley, Camille Futrell, Faye Hettel, Merle Smelser, Caroline Black, Billie Rayborn, Pat Oliver, Lora Green, Willie Parks, Eula Huggins, Jessie Fisher, Juanita Johnson, Mary Sue Richardson, Margaret Magee, Catherine Rhea, Frank D. Bennett, Bruce Barnhill, Vernon Parrish, Grey Ruff, Lynn Mabry, Arthur Woods, Ralph Maddox, Prentiss Park, Frank Mabry, DaVell Button, Milburn Mills, Freddy Schirmer, Norman Knowlton and Ralph Park. This class met at the school building on Saturday evening and enjoyed hay riding. After driving round town and to Corning Lake, wieners and marshmallows were roasted and enjoyed and games played at the lakeside.
Mrs. Elizabeth Barnett last week moved her beauty shop from the S. B. Neill residence property in east Corning to the former First National Bank building on West Second St., recently occupied by the Production Credit Association.
Sportsmen of the Western District of Clay County last Wednesday evening met in the circuit clerk's office in the courthouse to consider formation of a local fish and game association for conservation of wildlife. Local sportsmen who attended were J. M. Rhea, O. J. Harold, Ed Sheeks, DeWitt Hines, Tom Rhea, P. M. Companiotte, Bryan McCallen, George Bridges, Carl Launius, Columbus Wilson, Everett Long, Tezzie Smith, Charles R. Black, Jr., H. D. Hicks and Game Warden B. E. Redwine.
Mrs. Sarah Melinda Miller, age 80, passed away on Thursday of last week at her home near Palatka. Mrs. Miller had been a resident of Palatka community for 75 years and was probably the oldest living pioneer citizen in western Clay County, she was born in Ripley County, Missouri, and removed with her parents to Palatka community when she was a child. Her father, the late Captain John Anson Mulhollen, was a resident of Palatka community when he joined the Confederate army during the Civil War and was killed during the last months of the war in battle near Ironton, Mo.
In the death of F. B. Sprague last Sunday, Clay County lost another of its honored citizens and Corning a prominent business and community leader. He had been a resident of Corning for nearly 30 years. Mr. Sprague long had been an important factor in Corning's development and is prominently identified through his business interests in northeast Arkansas and southeast Missouri. For many years he owned and operated the Corning Telephone Company, selling his property to the Southwest Telephone Company several years ago. He has served continuously as president and otherwise as a member of the directorate of the Corning Bank for about 20 years, and is a large stockholder in the institution. He was one of the organizers of the Clay County Cotton Company, a ginning system now operating 15 plants in southeast Missouri and northeast Arkansas with headquarters in Corning.
Dr. and Mrs. J. S. Schirmer of Corning Hospital were involved in a very serious automobile accident on Highway 67 last Friday while returning to Corning from a professional call at Success. The Schirmer sedan left the pavement and rolled over twice into a ditch. Dr. Schirmer's left leg, just below the knee, sustained a compound fracture when his foot was thrust through a window and was crushed, as the vehicle overturned. Mrs. Schirmer was seriously bruised and shaken. Dr. E. M. Pfeiffer gave first aid treatment and late that afternoon Dr. Schirmer was removed in Black's ambulance to Baptist Hospital in Little Rock. Dr. J. S. Guentherner, a well known Little Rock surgeon, is now on duty at Corning hospital, pending Dr. Schirmer's recovery.
Some person or persons cut or bored an opening through Black River levee just east of Moark last Monday afternoon, resulting in a fifty-foot washout in the dike with little damage to farm property.
G. B. Oliver, Jr. chairman of the Arkansas Fish and Game Commission, told Corning Young Men's Civic Club members last Monday evening that land in western Clay County has been selected for location of another Arkansas fish hatchery and that the commission is ready to spend $80,000 for construction and development of a new hatchery if the land selected can be purchased at a reasonable figure.
One of the most worthy projects ever sponsored by local citizens is the beautifying and permanent upkeep of Corning Cemetery. A committee composed of C. R. Black, chairman, W. E. Edmondson and L. D. Russell, recently appointed by the local Young Men's Civic Club, has done splendid work during the past three weeks in directing the cleaning off of this cemetery and soliciting funds to pay for same. A crew of eight workmen has already cleaned off the entire cemetery, filling in low places and improved the property in many ways.
Grand opening of the beautiful new State Theatre of Corning was held last evening. This new theatre building, recently constructed by L. G. Black on the same site of the former State Theatre, which was destroyed by fire last December, is one of the finest and most elaborate theatres in Arkansas. Mrs. Ann Hutchins and Gordon Lee Hutchins are proprietors and operators of the State.
Corning Civic Band, recently organized under the able direction of Charles E. Hughes, will soon be heard on many local special occasions. The new band now has 18 regular members, including several experienced musicians.
An annual motor vehicle tax for the town of Corning carried by an almost unanimous vote in a special election held here last Tuesday. Results were: 70 for tax, 16 against. The motor vehicle tax applies to automobiles, trucks and locomobiles and all other motor vehicles except motor bicycles, tractors, traction engines and road rollers. The tax is $2 per year. Election officials were W. W. Henry, N. N. Steinberg, G. A. Lamb, judges; J. F. Arnold, Jr. and Lowell Cochran, clerks.
Freddy Joe Arnold, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Arnold on his 8th anniversary, Thursday afternoon, entertained with a party for several of his young friends. Games were played and ice cream, cookies and cold drinks served to Marguerite Ann Hicks, Patsy and Georgia Lee Lafferty, Willie Jean Walker, Ermadean and Corky Chariton, Millicent Cobb, Marylea Vines, Helen Baccus, Betty Rider, Joe Price and Danny Ray Tharp, Johnny Mack and Jigger Ward, Bobby Lee and Buck Keller, J. L. Wisner, Jimmy Oliver, O. J. Niswonger and Jimmy Kennedy.
Members of the Sunday School Junior Department were entertained at the home of their superintendent, Mrs. W. E. Polk, on Thursday evening with a party and treasure hunt. Games were played and the treasure hunt was much enjoyed. Refreshments were pimiento cheese sandwiches, butter cookies and punch. Present were Johnny Mack Ward, Philip Wilcoxson, Kathleen Wynn, Hannah Oliver, Billy, Don, Rob and Dixie Polk, Joe Gallegly, Buddy Bridges, Emaline and Caroline Wright, Louise Davis, Marylea Vines and Nancy Ruth Boulton.
Veto by President Roosevelt of a $3,260,000 appropriation for development of fish hatcheries will not block construction of a proposed $60,000 hatchery on Current River between Corning and Pocahontas,
Three Corning women were injured, one seriously, when a Missouri Pacific local freight locomotive struck W. D. Russell's automobile, in which the three ladies were riding, on to a grade crossing one block north of the old freight depot here last Monday. The injured are Mrs. Ella Johnson, possible fracture of left foot and injuries to lower limbs; Miss Mattie Russell, possible rib fracture, severe bruises and injury to left leg; Mrs. W. D. Russell, left leg injuries and body bruises. They were removed to Mrs. Russell's home and have been receiving treatment by Dr. S. P. Blackwood.
Through work of the local Civic Club and Postmaster W. E. Polk, a new US mail route is expected soon to be designated from Corning post office to serve 250 families residing in White and Ring School districts, Hickoria and McDougal communities.
$100,000 fish hatchery is assured for Corning. Construction to start in six to eight weeks. Glenn S. Leach of Washington, DC, chief of the Federal Bureau of Fisheries, last Tuesday assured Corning YMCC that the site for a proposed federal fish hatchery here has met all requirements of the government and actual construction work on the $100,000 project will start within the next six or eight weeks. A beautiful five acre park, with improved driveways, a water system, picnic benches, chairs and shelters will be opened to the public in connection with the hatchery.
S. V. (Tiddle) Walls, Jr., 24 year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. S. V. Walls, residing in south Corning, very painfully injured his right foot when a .22 caliber pump rifle in his hands accidentally discharged. The bullet fractured bones in the upper part of his right foot. He and other youths had been fishing last Sunday at Taylor Lake about three miles northeast of Corning and were returning home. He was unloading the gun when a bullet jammed.
J. W. McCauley and Son, owners and operators of mercantile stores in Neelyville and Naylor, last Monday purchased the local Odd Fellows building from the Corning Bank and expect soon to open their third store in the newly acquired property. The J. W. McCauley family have removed to Corning and he will personally manage his local store.
Clay County Electric Cooperative made another step toward furnishing electric lights and power to the rural sections of this county last Monday evening when teams were appointed to accompany a civil engineer on a preliminary survey of the proposed lines. The secretary reports that 480 contracts have been signed to date, indicating that approximately 150 miles of REA lines will be constructed.
S. B. Neill last Tuesday was appointed a deputy sheriff for the Western District of Clay County to fill a vacancy caused by J. M. Rice's death.
Corning Theatre early last Monday morning was damaged by fire to the extent of $10,000 to $12,000. The blaze, believed to have originated in the projection room, was discovered about 2 a.m. by Town Night watchman Chester Hollis who turned in an alarm.
Corning public school will reopen next Monday morning, September 5, with the following faculty: Silas D. Snow, superintendent; J. B. Dunlap, coach and social science; Miss Jewel Machen, foreign languages; Louis Webb, science and mathematics; Miss Edyth Griffin, commercial subjects; Miss Rosemary Hoffman, English; Miss Marjorie Durham, junior high school English and social science; Miss Grace Napier, sixth grade; Miss Zilphia Hulen, fifth grade; Mrs. Lucien Fowler, fourth grade; Mrs. Chas. Bowers, third grade; Mrs. Isabel Wilson, second grade and Miss Eula Davis, first grade.
Superintendent S. D. Snow reports that enrollment in Corning public school for the ensuing term is the largest in the history of the school, with more than 500 in attendance, 310 in the grades and 200 in high school. Ninety-six students from other districts are enrolled in Corning High School.
At a special meeting of the local YMCC last Monday evening, several plans were discussed to secure WPA aid in paving Corning streets with asphalt.
The federal government is ready to start work on one of the largest flood control projects ever undertaken in northeast Arkansas, so construction of a $750,000 levied flood way system along Black river in western Clay County. The money has been appropriated and government engineers and contractors are ready to start work on the huge project when a few remaining small strips of land can be obtained from landowners.
Clay and Randolph counties have been allotted $300,000 to erect 271 miles of rural electrification lines, according to the Rural Electrification Administration in Washington, DC, in a telegram to Geo. F. Metzler, Clay County agriculture agent. On Tuesday, Clay and Randolph County Agents and L. A. Scrivner, president of the Clay County REA, J. C. Latta, vice president and Jess Dismang, Pocahontas, met with REA officials in Little Rock to get instructions for completion of the work which will enable rural families to get electricity at a very reasonable rate.
At a meeting of the local YMCC last Monday evening, committees were appointed to erect a community Christmas tree for Corning and arrange for gifts to local needy families.
Corning public school honor roll - First grade: Isaac Bracken, Harold Bowers, Billy Hollis, Thomas Kinsey, Billy Oliver, Jacky Ousnamer, Charles Patterson, A. C. Roberts, Sammy Motsinger, Fern Ainley, Wilma Bergman, Dorma Jean Davis, Betty Lou Grant, Jerry Lee Jackson, Francis Perrin, Billy Joe Taylor, Doris Ann Wisdom and Wilda Dean McGuire.

1939
The REA authorities have designated Corning as headquarters for a $300,000 rural electrification program in Clay and Randolph counties. Construction of electric lines is expected to start soon, according to L. A. Scrivner, president of the local REA. The office at Corning is being set up this week.
Meeting of directors and stockholders of The Corning Bank was held last Tuesday afternoon. Officers elected for the ensuing year are: E. Vandover, president; Mrs. F. B. Sprague and Ed V. Sheeks, vice presidents; G. A. Lamb, cashier. The board of directors is composed of Joseph Sellmeyer, chairman, E. Vandover, G., A. Lamb, S. Talkington, Ed V. Sheeks, W. M. Fowler, M. G. Hoffman, L. G. Black.
Corning YMCC held its first meeting of the new year on January 2 with 49 members present. The meeting was in charge of the new officers: G. A. Jimerson, president; E. V. Sheeks, vice president and L. L. Fowler, secretary.
L. D. Oaks, 76, passed away at his home here last Monday. He had been a resident of Corning for 40 years. He operated a photograph studio here for many years until ill health and physical disabilities forced him to give up his profession.
Another important improvement for Corning is the recent construction of a new and completely modern lumber mill by the J. W. Black Lumber Company. The new plant, located on the old mill site, was placed in operation last Tuesday. A crew of eight men operate the mill.
Reva Ainley, Bess Jane Gallegly, Wanda Joyner, Mary Marie Robinson, Ida Vonne Taylor and Jewel Curtis, charter members of the National Honor Society, inducted the newly elected members into the society before the PTA and again before the High School assembly. Newly elected members are: Maxine Ainley, Ruby Gibson, Anna Hettle, Ernest Jernigan, Freddie Kimball, Elmer Wilcoxon, all juniors; Mildred Fowler, Catherine Garland, Malissa Green, Paula Park and Melvin Crafton, seniors.
At a mass meeting of local citizens last Friday evening at the courthouse, candidates for Corning municipal offices were selected as follows: P. L. Oliver, mayor; D. L. Ousnamer, Punk McElvin, J. B. Belford, W. D. Yeargain, O. L. Woods, aldermen; Lowell Thomason, recorder.
Tezzie Smith's mercantile store was opened in his new building in Corning first of this week. His store at Success has been discontinued and mercantile stocks are being moved from Success to his Corning store. Smith recently purchased the J. L. Taylor-C. R. Black south half of the concrete building on West Second Street and has completely remodeled this property.
The Reliable Drygoods Company at St. Louis, last Saturday purchased the stock and fixtures of Lindsey's Store of Corning, owned and operated by Clarence E. Lindsey. Lindsey has engaged in the mercantile business here continuously for 33 years
A frame dwelling, owned by Special School District No. 8 and occupied by the school janitor, Wm. Wright and his family, was destroyed by fire last Monday at 2 a.m. The Wright family now occupy the Searcy brick property on West Second Street near the courthouse.
A strong endorsement was given candidates for Corning municipal offices in last Tuesday's election. Although the candidates had no opposition, 96 votes were polled. Mayor P. L Oliver is now entering his fourth term.
Plans for paving (blacktop) of Corning's streets were explained by officials of the local YMCC at a citizens meeting held at the courthouse last Monday evening. Brooks Sheeks, chairman of the YMCC committee on paving, presented a detailed report on plans for securing a WPA project for paving all Corning streets, gave figures on cost to taxpayers and outlined legal steps necessary, Sheeks explained that with the WPA furnishing all labor, and the usual percentage of material, it is estimated that $64,000 worth of pavement construction can be secured at a cost of approximately $20,600 to local taxpayers. A five mill property tax would be necessary to retire the $20,000 bond issue over a period of 16 years, he said, which would result in an increase of approximately one-eighth of present county, state and general tax payments. Such tax cannot exceed five mills. Plans call for 45 foot asphalt pavement in the business district and 18 foot, clay-gravel base, with blacktop surface in the residential district.
Clay County Electric engineers are now staking the line from Corning through McDougal, Hickoria, Pollard, Piggott and St. Francis. They have staked between 25 and 30 miles of line in Randolph and Clay counties in the last two weeks.
An 1883 act placing a tax on peddlers and rolling stores was repealed by Act 63 of 1929, and repeal of the first 51 sections of the latter measure by Act 119 of 1929 did not have the effect of reinstating the 1883 statute, the Supreme Court decided last Monday. The decision affirmed a Clay Chancery Court decree enjoining Sheriff and Collector Dan McLeon of Clay County from collecting a $25 peddlers license fee from John B. Shaver, rolling store operator.
J. D. Pittman, who has served as chief of police of Corning during the past three years and five months, has placed his resignation, effective May 1st.
Mayor P. L. Oliver has called a special election for Tuesday, June 6, when local qualified electors will vote upon the question of converting the incorporated town of Corning into a city of the second class for the purpose of holding a second election 30 days later to vote upon the question of a five mill property tax to pave the streets of Corning.
Largest class in history of C.H.S. to graduate. Thomas Bibb, Bixx Box, Melvin Crafton, Teddy Dove, Cleo Frazier, Thomas George, Amos Hamilton, Ira Hubbard, Robert Keelin, Jr., Emul King, J. T. Jenkins, Wendell Phipps, Troy Porter, Milburn Rapert, Don Thomason, Paul Webber, Bill Malone, Reva Ainley, Florance Cole, Jewell Curtis, Freddie Ermert, Sammye Flanigan, Mildred Fowler, Bess Jane Gallegly, Catherine Garland, Ethel Grayson, Malissa Green, Wanda Joyner, Modena Kimball, Laverne Moore, Paula Park, Ilene Richardson, Mary Marie Robinson, Elonda Scrivner, Virginia Smith, Ida Vonne Taylor, Margaret Ann Vandover, Charlene Ward, Elizabeth Wright.
Corning High School Alumni Association annual banquet, attended by 110 members and guests and was held last Tuesday evening at the local gymnasium. Decorations of the Junior-Senior banquet, held on the previous evening were used for the alumni banquet. Brooks Sheeks served as toastmaster. At the conclusion of the banquet, Kenneth Harmon was elected president; Mrs. Lowell Cochran, vice president and Miss Birdie Sullins, secretary-treasurer.
On June 5th the first pole for construction of the rural electric transmission lines for Clay, Randolph and Greene counties will be set in Corning. The substation site has already been purchased, and the pole will be erected on this site. It is located just north of Corning on Highway 67 and across the road from the new ball park.
A grand jury has been summoned for the regular June term of Circuit Court (Criminal Division) for the Western District of Clay County, to convene on Monday June 12, to investigate a number of alleged violations in this district. Grand jurors summoned to serve are: John Kamerman, J. H. Magee, W. M. Beaty, Sug Chandle, Felix Holt, Ed Cleveland, H. S. Cunningham, G. A. Rahm, Jerry Price, Lee Geckler, Roy Creek, Sam Williamson, G. E. James, J. M. Oliver, Jr., W. M. Fowler, W. M. Letbetter. Alternates: Sam Button, J. F. Sharpe, J. M. Montgomery, John Ermert, W. F. Ezell, Russell Day.
An opportunity to inspect one of the finest steam passenger trains ever assembled will be given residents of this city at 3 p.m., Friday, June 16, when the Missouri Pacific Lines' exhibition special pulls into the local yards for a 30-minute stop in its course of its 2800 mile tour of the west and southwest.
Actual construction of rural electrification lines for Clay, Randolph and Greene counties was appropriately observed in Corning last Monday afternoon with an impressive and interesting program of the historical event - the setting of the first REA pole. About 500 citizens of the three counties attended the celebration held at the substation site in northwest Corning, adjacent to US Highway 67. Speakers included many prominent officials. The parade traveled from the REA office to the substation site, music by Corning and Randolph County bands. Speakers George Jimerson, L. A. Scrivner, Judge T. A. French, Rev. C. C. Cunningham, Mr. Davenport project engineer with Lund-Guxton Engineering Company, M. S. Carroll, Robert Cherry, project superintendent from Jonesboro and Willie C. French, project superintendent.
Announcement - Effective Thursday, June 8, 1939, the new barber laws of Arkansas force us to charge the following uniform prices for work: Hair Cut, 35c; Shave, 20c. We appreciate your patronage and assure you that we will strive to give first class work to all alike. Ralph and Bill's Barber Shop, Chas. Barber Shop, Ed and Marvin Dortch, and Bowers.
Milton Edwards, pioneer resident of Success, Clay county's oldest and one of the most highly respected citizens, passed away last Saturday in Corning Hospital at the age of 98. He would have reached his 99th year next October 10th. Uncle Milt came near being with General George A. Custer in the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876 when not one of his men survived the massacre that stirred the nation to battle the Red man for many years.
The first crew of 15 men started work of clearing right of way for government flood control levees on Black River east of Corning last Tuesday under Horton and Coleman, contractors of Memphis. Additional men for this work will be given employment within the next five days.
Corning's beautiful new Baptist church building will soon be completed. Contractor A. W. Ahrent expects to have the edifice erected and ready for use before September 1st. Located on the site of the former Baptist Church building, this modern new structures in 75 feet by 50 feet in area, constructed of mat faced variegated brick. The old church building, in use for over 52 years, was razed last January to make way for the new structure. Dr. J. S. Compere, pastor of the church, is now planning the dedication of the new building.
J. W. Black, 81, oldest member of Corning. Baptist Church and one of the building fund committee, was among the first Baptists to start a movement, for a new church building here about two years ago.
25 cents - Is twenty-five cents too much to pay for quick relief from stomach misery such as heart burn, bloating after meals, sour stomach. Present this ad and 25c for a full size of Nash's Ac-Aid tablets. This offers good for a few days only at Crystal Drug Store.
An official announcement from the State Department of Education was received last week by local school officials, giving the Corning school. an "A" rating again. The high school was approved for 24 mills units of work. This is significant in that only 16 units are required for graduation but means that Corning High School students have that wide a range of subjects to choose from.
Details of the new Corning school bus route to serve Bennett, Ring, McDougal, Hickoria, Wildwood and Texas No. 10 school districts were completed this week. N. E. Morgan from Quitman has been employed to operate the bus on this route. About 150 high school students are expected to take advantage of this new route and enroll in Corning High School. The bus route established last year will be continued with very few changes.
A record enrollment has been made in every department at Corning Public School. Over 600 students have enrolled in the whole system. There are approximately 225 students enrolled in the high school.
Ralph Shelton, owner and operator of the Sinclair Service Station on the Arkansas-Missouri state line north of Corning, has recently been appointed local agent for the Sinclair Refining Co., succeeding E. Bailey, who has served as that company's local agent during the past six years. Shelton purchased the agency rights from Bailey on September 1. Shelton has opened an office in the Wynn building just north of the Clay County Ice Co., plant on West Second Street, with Sterling Richardson in charge as manager.
Angle Station Special - Inner tubes, 90c up.
Wednesday afternoon, September 19, the Corning High School Pep Squad was organized. Miss Durham and Mr. Thomas were elected as the sponsors. "The Peppy Peppers" was elected as the name for the squad. The following officers were elected: president, Boots Skaggs; secretary, Virginia Baldridge. Gussie Dee Smith, Louise Gallegly and Regina Rhea were appointed as temporary cheerleaders.
Notice is hereby, given that the special municipal election, held in the City of Corning, on October 3, 1939, called for the purpose of voting on questions of whether or not this city should issue $15,000 in bonds to raise funds to pay part of cost of paving the streets was as follows: for issuing bonds, 188; against issuing bonds, 71.
The first grade children experienced a new happiness, Tuesday, when they received their first report cards. Those making the honor roll were: Betty Alexander, Minnie Brown, Ray Cavett, Loren Highly, Jo Ann Phelan, Maudie Rush, Don Sorrells, Juanita Wilkins, Ula Mae Harbison, Mary Louise Stephens, Futrell Braussand, Mary E. Ballinger, Joyce Garrett, Glenna Dean Julian, Patsy Lafferty, James Mizell, Maudie Richardson, Sammy Taylor.
First line of Clay County REA energized Monday. On October 30, at 9:00 a.m., the three phase line known as line Z, running east from the Corning substation was energized. Lines 5, 4, and 3, respectively, are being energized as the service crew comes to them.
Night football tonight, November 10, Sprague Field, Corning vs. Dyess. Adm. 15c and 40c.
The seventh grade had a Who's Who election, Tuesday in home room. The prettiest girls are Grace Garrett and Hannah Oliver; most handsome boy, Billy Sorrells; cutest, Jimmie Arnold, Dorotha Garrett; most polite, Hannah Oliver and Buddy Bridges; most conceited, Emma Leslie Esmon and Buddy Bridges; best all around, Philip Wilcoxon and Dixie Polk and Lorene Wright; wittiest, Helen Rhea and Kenneth Baker; best student, Lorene Wright; most popular, Hannah Oliver, Philip Wilcoxon and Buddy Bridges; best dressed Billy Sorrells and Hannah Oliver; laziest, Helen Rhea, Kenneth Baker and Billy Riggs; model seventh grader, Lorene Wright.
At the annual North Arkansas Conference of the Church, held last week at Morrilton, Rev. J. T. Wilcoxon was reassigned as pastor of Corning Episcopal Church. He has served as pastor of the local church for the past five years.
Corning's new First Baptist church building will be formally opened next Sunday, November 19, with special services.
Corning's beautiful new First Baptist church was formally opened last Sunday with large attendance at all services. Dr. Ben Bridges of Little Rock, secretary of the Arkansas State Baptist Board, was the speaker at the 11 o'clock hour and Rev. Golden Neely of Pattonsburg, Mo., a former pastor, of this church, was the speaker at the evening service. Mrs. Forrest McGinley, organist of St. John's Episcopal Church, Memphis, gave an impressive organ recital from three until four in the afternoon. Rev. F. C. Neely gave an interesting account of the progress and history of the church.
Sixth Grade - Recent tests in spelling indicate that the following pupils are best in spelling at the end of the second six weeks of school: Bessie Phelan, Roaslie Schirmer, Jerry Butler, Joe Gallegly, Vernon Hastens, Johnny Mack Ward, Berdie Jean Loyd, Josephine Crites, Burl David Gentry, Hugh Max Grant, Arthur York, Jr., Marley Baker, Judith Motsinger, Faye Miller, Emaline Wright, Roberta Kennedy, Leon Richard Brown, Bernard Ousnamer.
Rev. Golden E. Neely of Pattonsburg, Mo., a former pastor of Corning First Baptist Church, has been called as regular pastor of this church and will conduct services here next Sunday. Rev. Neely served as pastor of Corning Baptist Church for four years prior to his removal to Missouri, five years ago.
Last Friday at 2 a.m. death quietly and unexpectedly folded its shroud around the mortal remains of one of Clay County's best known and most prominent citizens. Stilled is the nimble mind and eloquence that gained not only high recognition for him in the legal profession, but a deep sense of respect for a southern gentleman of the old school. Hon. Felix Grundy Taylor of Corning, former Judge of the Second Judicial Circuit, who would have been 80 years old yesterday, passed away in a Little Rock hospital. Ill health forced his retirement about a year ago. Coincident with his work in the schools here, he studied law in the office of the late Judge E. Foster Brown in Corning and was admitted to practice early in 1882. Later the same year he married Viola Beloate, a member of a well known Corning family, who preceded him in death many years ago. In the 1891 legislature, he was the representative from Clay County and in 1894, at the age of 34, he was elected circuit judge. Judge Taylor was a delegate to the Democrat National Convention in 1896 and was a presidential elector in 1916.
Mrs. Ella See, 83, resident of Corning for more than 60 years, passed away last Sunday in a Fort Worth, Texas hospital. Mrs. See had made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Fred Hakin in Fort Worth during the past few years, but returned to her home here each summer until her health failed. Mrs. See was a native of Birmingham, Ky., she removed here in 1878 and was one of the very few early pioneer Corning residents left at the time of her death. 
Chris Bauschlicher, 84, a highly respected pioneer citizen of western Clay County passed away last Sunday after a month's illness at his home in the German community three miles north of Corning. He was a native of Elmendingen, Baden, Germany. He was 23 when he came to the United States and had lived here for 50 years.
A new US star mail route was put into services last Monday, serving all towns in US Highway 67 between Corning and Hoxie, also the town of Success.
Mayor P. L. Oliver announced yesterday that work on Corning's paving project will start on Tuesday, December 26th. The first work to be done is grading and drainage of seven and one-fourth miles of streets. 
The huge Christmas tree located on West Second Street will be the center of big Christmas party for all children in this community tomorrow night at 7:30 when candy and fruit will be given by Santa in person. The local YMCC sponsors for this happy event, have appointed T. C. Gallegly in charge of the tree, assisted by School Superintendent Silas D. Snow, Coach Dunlap and ten volunteers from the club. Corning Band will play at the tree. H. Bridgeforth, local manager of the Arkansas- Missouri Power Corp., is in charge of illuminating and decorating the tree. The community Christmas tree is made possible through donations by local business men. 
Employees of the J. W. Black Lumber Company were honored with a banquet last Saturday night, December 16, at the company's retail store. This banquet is an annual affair given by the company in appreciation of the employees' service and each year a service award is given to the employee with the most years of service to the company. This banquet was the fourth to be given and it was presided over by Chas. R. Black, Sr., and C. R. Black, Jr. Ed. V. Stephens was presented the fourth annual service award and a dollar for each of his 19 years' service. Each of the other employees was awarded a crisp new, one dollar bill as a Christmas present from the company. The fruit cake prize went to Crate Bradney. During the evening vocal and dance numbers were played by a string ensemble composed of Tiddle Walls, Chet Walls, Lute Walls, Bill Norris, Johnnie Pounds, Cletus Greenwood. Attending were: Henry Alexander, Clarence Baccus, Edward Bracken, Crate Bradney, Tom Carter, Lahman Esmon, Roy Fisher, Wilbur Garland, Johnnie Glass, Dude Hollis, Jim Bob Hollis, Sid Hollis, Perry Lafferty, Chas. Long, Cecil Loyd, Earl Loyd, Rufus Loyd, Ralph Magee, Bill Norris, Jimmie Pounds, Louis Powell, Curt Richardson, Herman Riggs, Ed V. Stephens, Elmer Vines, Chet Walls, Lute Walls, W. F. Walls, Cletus Greenwood, Paul Walls, Tiddle Walls, Perle Webb, R. C. Launius, David Woodring, Charles Black, Sr., Charles R. Black, Jr., J. A. Jimerson, L. D. Russell, Nellie Riggs and Birdie Sullins.
L. Scrivner's general mercantile store in Palatka was destroyed by fire Monday morning with a loss estimated at $12,000. He had operated the store about 16 years. 
Coach James Dunlap of the Corning High school football team has announced the following lettermen for the 1939 season: ends - James Wilson, Ernest Jernigan and John Oliver Black; tackles - Namon Johnson, Melvin Creek, Billy Richardson and Fred Cox; guards - John Jonas, Lawrence Grayson and Freda Brown; centers - Homer Pillow and Edward Gallimore; backs - J. C. Stotts, Aubrey Park, Harold Allensworth, David Smith, Johnnie Gallegly, Gene Cox and Thomas George. Sam Ratcliffe and Gordon Grayson will receive reserve letters as will Lawrence Creek and Richard Ermert as they are out for spring practice.

1940
Corning YMCC held its final meeting of 1939 on December 18 and elected Brooks Sheeks president, Louis Graber vice president and Charles Bowers secretary for the ensuing year.
At the regular meeting of Corning F. and A. M. Lodge No. 719 on Thursday evening the following officers were elected to serve during the ensuing year: Sam Arnold, WM; D. Niles Ruff, SW; A. T. Hubbard, JW; Shannon Reed, treasurer; Clyde Lasater, secretary; John Ermert, SD; Charles Mulhollen, JD; T. W. Wynn, chaplain; Chas. M. Vines, tyler. John Joyner and B. M. Bryant were appointed Masters of Ceremony.
At the close of business December 30, 1939, The Corning Bank deposits passed the half million dollar mark, $557,269.77, a gain of $208,337.49 in just one year.
Postmaster W. Earl Polk announced first of this week that total receipts from all sources of Corning Post Office during 1939 totaled $10,339.18, a gain of $1804.32 over total receipts of 1938.
Luster U. King recently opened a radio and electrical repair shop in a new building one block west of Oliver and Company store.
The annual meeting of the members of the Clay County Electric Cooperative Corporation was held in the State Theatre building at Corning, Wednesday, January 17, 1940. The meeting was well attended and was called to order at 10 a.m. by the president, L. A. Scrivner. The welcome address was given by Corning's mayor, P. L. Oliver. 
Corning City Council met with a local YMCC last Monday evening and passed Ordinance No. 216, granting to the Southwest Telephone Company a permit to install a manual (flash) telephone system for Corning and establish new monthly rates.
Curly Penter, operator of pearl button manufacturing plants at Kennett and Parkin, was here first of this week in the interest of reopening his button plant in Corning.
W. W. and J. M. Futrell, formerly of Paragould, have opened a Western Auto Associate Store in Corning in the Barnett building recently vacated by the Sunshine Cafe. 
James M. Briney, well known local rice farmer, who was 60 years old on February 29th, celebrated his 14th Leap Year birthday at his home three miles west of Corning on Thursday of last week with a dinner attended by 30 friends and relatives.
Attention is directed to a city ordinance which requires that all chickens and other fowl be kept in an enclosure and not permitted to run at large under penalty of law. Owners of hogs are also ordered to clean up pens and place same in sanitary condition. Barn lots in which horses and cows are kept must be also cleaned up at once. By order of the mayor, P. L. Oliver; Harrison Grayson, city marshal. Street and dog taxes are now due. 
Louie Allmandinger, 82, pioneer resident of the German Community three miles north of Corning, passed away at his home an Thursday of last week. He was born in Butler County, Ohio, on May 21, 1857. He came to Arkansas in November, 1894 and located north of Corning in the area now known as the German settlement. He cleared his land and helped to build a community. He served as a school director for 21 years.
After 55 years in business in Corning, Mrs. Mary L. Oliver recently announced her retirement. Oliver and Company is now owned and operated by her son, J. M. Oliver, who has been associated in the business for many years. The business was established in 1885 as C. O. Watts and Co., under management of M. L. Watts, C. H. Crabtree and M. L. Crabtree. The business was located on the same site now occupied by Oliver and Company. In December 1886, Mr. Crabtree died and Mary L. Crabtree carried on the business under the same name. In June 1891, she became the wife of Dr. J. M. Oliver and later the name of the store was changed to Oliver and Company. In May, 1935, the death of Dr. Oliver left Mrs. Oliver in control of the business again and she has remained so until her retirement on April 1st at the age of 79. She will continue her farming interests. In October 1922, J. M. Oliver, Jr. was admitted as a third partner of the firm and he continued in the partnership until a few days ago when he became sole owner of the business.
Thomas F. (Uncle Tom) Ray, one of Poplar Bluff's best known citizens and for many years active in civic, fraternal and church affairs, died peacefully at his home in the Ray Apartments on North Main Street, Friday. Thomas Franklin Ray was born on September 15, 1853 in Henry County, Tenn., near Paris; grew to manhood there and in Marshall County, Ky., on his parents' farm and as a clerk in a general merchandise store. In the autumn of 1879 he located in Corning, Arkansas, and established the Corning Advocate, a weekly newspaper which he edited and published until the fall of 1885 when he sold the paper and engaged in the mercantile business. He was made a Mason on November 29, 1884 at Corning.
Big Hoss Swapping - Bring in your old nag and swap for one of these registered thoroughbreds, no cash needed. If your nag is worth 20 percent of one of ours. We have been pasturing 'em long enough. Finest corral of "Hoss Flesh" is on the block and in order to move them faster we have cut prices again. They've got to go. You save from $10 to $100 on any car in our big corral, look 'em over, drive 'em. A written guarantee with any above $150 what we say it is, it has to be. Terms to suit you - A peppy three year old, a fine strong stallion named Ford Tudor. Sleek green coat, good shoes and talking machine. Rarin' to go to a proud new owner. Was $375. Now $295, Bennett-Sheeks Motor Co., Corning.
About 15 cases of smallpox in Palatka and Heelstring communities have been reported to the county health department. This is a deplorable condition since the health department visited Palatka and vicinity on February 8th, 1940, offering smallpox vaccination to the school children. The school children in most cases were told by their parents not to take the smallpox vaccination. Now several of these same children have smallpox which absolutely could have been prevented had they taken the vaccination at that time. Hereafter any child in Clay County who is attending school without having been vaccinated will be immediately sent home and must remain out of school until they are vaccinated.
Dr. John Bruce, a practicing physician in White County for many years, who has resided at Success during the past several months, has removed to Corning where he will conduct a general practice of medicine. He and his family will occupy the Thos. Rhea residence on West First Street.
The Corning grade school will again present its annual May Day Festival on Friday evening at the high school gymnasium. Miss Sue Stephens, lovely daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Stephens, will reign as queen over this gala affair. She will be escorted to the throne by Master Jimmy Oliver, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Oliver, Jr. Her attendants are: Patsy Lafferty, Doris June Wisdom, Jane Oliver, Rosalie Schirmer and Sara Frances Smalley. Maudie Richardson and Kathryn Long will serve as flower girls with Johnny Stephens carrying the train. Donald Gene Roberts will act as crown bearer.
Work on Corning's $50,000 street paving project was started last Monday. The first work to be done is grading and drainage of the seven and one-fourth miles of streets. The first work will be upon streets of south Corning.
Corning public schools will close another successful term next Thursday when 28 seniors will receive diplomas. Instead of awarding the traditional valedictorian and salutatorian honors, six of the strongest students with equal standing have been selected as honor students of the class of 1940, as follows: Merl Kathryn Pence, Maxine Ainley, Elmer Wilcoxson, Ernest D. Jernigan, Jr., Pauline Hubbard and Mary Sue Smith. Other members of the graduating class are: Mary Jane Cox, Edna Allensworth, Fred Cox, Jr., Melvin R. Creek, James England, Ruby Maxine Gipson, Anna Louise Hettel, Geneva Mary Kellett, Freddie M. Kimball, Loren J. Maddox, Cathleen Ousnamer, Aubrey D. Park, Delma Elaine Rawlings, Howard Russell, Tommie Russell, Wandeena Skaggs, Wayne Simmons, Loren T. Sorrels, J. C. Stotts, John W. Tracy, John W. Tracy, Gladys H. Wideman and Denzil C. Wright.
Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Drilling of Morrilton recently purchased the Franklin Store of Corning, owned and operated by Mrs. E. K. Meadows during the past several years. Mr. and Mrs. Drilling, during the past two weeks, have had in their employ an expert merchandise stockman, R. Storey of Memphis who has completely rearranged the stocks, directing the installation of new fixtures, redecorating windows and adding new lines of merchandise.
Piano recital by pupils of Mrs. Cora York, assisted by Anna Hettel and Gussie D. Smith, Baptist Church, May 9, 1940. Participating: Robert Wynn, Sally Black, Eddie Sheeks, Helen Wynn, Jodie Gallegly, Kathleen Wynn, Dorothy Day, Lou Ellen Walker, Helen Bailey, Margaret Elizabeth Davis, Peggy Jean Bridges, Leta Snodgrass, Lataine Spencer, Mary Lou Dunn, Minnie Grizzle, Betty Joe Cochran, Maureen Daly. Ushers: Johnnie Gallegly and John Oliver Black. 
A two-story frame residence in west Corning, owned by Mrs. W. E. Sursa and occupied by the Elmer Bailey family, was destroyed by fire last Friday afternoon.
The Clay County Ice Company's modern beverage division recently added the Century line of pure fruit extracts for the various flavors of sodawater bottled.
One of the most beautiful and modern business buildings ever constructed in Corning has recently been completed by O. L. Woods and occupied by the Woods' Mercantile Co., which will stage its grand opening tomorrow, June 1. Contractor M. E. Eakers was in charge of erecting this modern, two-story, brick structure which covers an area 50 by 150 feet, including ware room and concrete basement.
Look Boys! Get a Lone Ranger Pistol Free. Save 100 Century bottle caps and get a genuine Lone Ranger Pistol, nine inches long, absolutely free. Clay County Ice Co., Corning.
Mrs. Mary A. Dudgeon, pioneer Corning resident, passed away at her home here last Friday afternoon. She would have been 71 years of age on July 18th. Mrs. Dudgeon was a native of Benton, Ky., a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Cal Woodall who removed to western Clay County in 1872. A devout Christian, she was a charter member of Corning Church and the second oldest member at the time of her death. Her husband, the late John A. Dudgeon, died in 1919.
Crazed by jealousy and separation from his wife, Ellis Green, 30-year-old farmer of Taylor Lake community just east of Corning, killed his wife, Edith, 21, her parents, J. A. Mahan, 49, and Mrs. Esther Mahan, 44, and then took his own life with the same weapon, a single barrel 20 gauge shotgun, last Friday afternoon in one of the most gruesome and carefully planned murders in the history of Clay County.
Preliminary US census returns for Clay County: Clay County Total, 28,373; Piggott, 2,034; Rector, 1,734; Corning, 1,619; Knobel 375; Success 281; Datto 198; St. Francis 259; Pollard 169; Greenway 303; Peach Orchard 374; farms, 3,312.
Graber's 26th Anniversary Sale starts tomorrow, Saturday, July 13, with reduced prices on hundreds of seasonal items throughout the large store.
Corning City Council passed ordinance to stop peddlers.
Thomas Bridges, Jr., 15, son of Mr. and Mrs. T. G. Bridges of Corning, suffered a serious injury to his spine when he fell from the diving stand at Current River Beach, Wednesday afternoon. Examinations at Campbell's Clinic, Memphis, show that the young man's neck is fractured, he is in a very grave condition.
One of the most spectacular attractions staged for the first. time in this section of the country, will be witnessed Saturday night as a part of the big Hillbilly Jamboree in the Sprague Athletic Field. Speed Pierce, internationally known daredevil will ride a standard stock model motorcycle through a solid, one-inch board wall at 60 miles per hour. In order to make the stunt more spectacular and at the same time more dangerous, the wall will be soaked in gasoline and set on fire just a second or two before the rider crashes through.
Earl Fitzgerald, a well known local pharmacist, will open his own drug store in the building formerly occupied by Arnold Drug, Co., on West Second Street, here.
Clyde Lasater, proprietor of the Model Grocery, will close his store and quit business this week after 30 years of continuous operation of a grocery store in Corning.
Ralph Cochran, a well known local beautician, has opened a beauty shop in rooms over the Western Auto store on West Second Street. He is a licensed operator with many years experience.
H. Goode is erecting a modern brick and tile building on the site of his business lot on West First Street here, to be occupied by the Goode store when completed.
Another important step forward for Corning is the installation of a modern telephone system which will be put into operation this week by the Southwest Telephone Company. Installation of 404 outside cable pairs have been made to accommodate 404 local subscribers and 32 rural and toll lines. Hosey Gresham is local wire chief and Miss Beulah Bennett, local chief operator. Thomas Brothers recently enlarged their store on West Second Street here by leasing the north, adjoining store room in the Lindsey building. Complete lines of dry goods, shoes, clothing have been added.
Mack Blackwood of Paragould will open a new and used furniture store in Corning next week, in the south room of the brick building adjoining H. W. Lasater's store on West First Street.
Corning Postmaster W. Earl Polk has been notified that RFD No. 1 Datto has been consolidated with RFD No. 1 Corning and mail service on the combined routes will start next Monday, September 16th by Henry W. Smelser, carrier on Corning RFD No. 1. Service on the former Datto route was served by Carrier W. G. Amick who has been retired after 25 years of service. Corning RFD No. One will now serve 354 boxes and Corning RFD No. Two, 203 boxes. Corning Post Office advanced to an office of Second Class on July 1, 1940.
President Roosevelt signed into law today the nation's first peace time draft bill and immediately issued a proclamation requiring the registration, October 16, of 16,500,000 men, 21 through 35 years old.
Employees of the local REA office and several friends enjoyed a picnic and wiener roast at Barnhill Camp near Black River northeast of Corning on Monday of last week. A motor boat trip up the river was enjoyed. Attending were; Mr. and Mrs. Willie French and niece Syble, Mr. and Mrs. Hughes Bennett and son Johnny, Mr. and Mrs. James Rhodes and son James Harold, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Whitaker, Maurice Cooper, J. S. Cole, Marion Irwin, Bob Boughton, M. S. Carol, Jesse Dismang, Victor Pond, Harry Bennett, Don Harland, Miss Loretta Edington, Mrs. Alice Wiley, Miss Louise Barker, Miss Muriel Smelser and Miss Catherine Ousnamer.
Acting upon petition of a majority of the qualified electors of Ring School District No. 72, Wildwood School District No. 57 and Heelstring School District No. 37, presented at a regular term of county court here last Monday, Judge French issued an order annexing the three above mentioned districts to Corning Special School District No. 8.
It would be humiliating for the Western District not to be represented in the Mayors' Mule Race which is the outstanding feature of the fair at Piggott next Sunday, so I will accept the challenge and be there with my favorite mule, Jake, to defend our home district. We should do our part to make a place for the mule in America's great racing sport. He is like a man without a country, no pride in the past, nor hope for the future. P. L. Oliver, Mayor of Corning.
There are close to 600 pupils enrolled in grade school and high school in Corning. Ten of the 14 teachers are graduates of four year colleges and hold the BA degree, also several have done graduate study. There are 64 pupils enrolled in the commercial department under the direction of Miss Edyth Griffin. The new agriculture department has three double period first year classes with an average of 20 high school boys in each class.
The Corning School Board is composed of L. G. Black, president; W. W. Henry, secretary; W. L. Oliver, T. C. Gallegly and T. G. Bridges.
There are 41 classes taught in Corning High School and the average size is 28 members.
Peter F. Raster, 28, sentenced to 15 years for robbing the Corning Bank of $8,560 in October, 1934, was recommended by the state parole board for commutation of sentence to seven years which would make him eligible for immediate parole. The board met Monday at Cummins Farm. Raster and Howard Hogan held up the bank while their companion sat in a stolen auto near the bank's entrance and assisted in their escape. Raster and Hogan were apprehended several days later, but no trace was ever found of the third accomplice. Hogan also received a 15 year sentence. The bank's loss was fully covered by insurance.
Louis D. Johnson of Piggott, listed as No. 158, was the first Clay County man to be drafted under the peacetime conscription. The first drawn from the Western District was No. 2914, Charles Alexander of Corning.
New grates have been installed in the school furnaces and local authorities do not anticipate any trouble from this source this year. This equipment is old and everything possible is being done to get by at a low cost to the district until other arrangements can be made. W. F. Nettle starts fires in these furnaces about three o'clock in the morning in order that the building will be comfortable when the students arrive.
Some Corning High students get up as early as three or four o'clock in the morning in order to catch the bus or get in to school and are never tardy. This sort of spirit is catching until today a tardy is one of the rarest things in school.
Rev. Ben Few, assigned as pastor of the Corning Church by the annual Conference at Jonesboro, arrived here with his family, Friday. Rev. J. T. Wilcoxon, pastor of Corning Episcopal Church during the past five years, has been assigned to Paris Episcopal Church. 
Mrs. T. S. Reed was seriously injured at her home just north of Corning last Friday when a cow she was milking kicked her, dislocating her left arm.
The Selective Service Board of Clay County has called the following named men for induction into the US Army for a period of one year's military training. Francis Marion Davis, Lee Franklin Evans, Silas Nelson Easterbrook, Harley Henry Cushion, Mert Warbritton. Because one or more of the men named above may not be inducted at the induction station by the armed forces, the following named men may be required for replacements. Any man so required to report as a replacement shall be duly notified at least five days before he is required to report: Odie Paul Boone, William Thomas Hollis, Robert Joseph Wheeler, Royal Lenear Wheeler, James Frederick Wheeler. 
On Monday evening, December 9, an informal dinner will be given by the Corning school faculty for the five Corning directors, the five new teachers and Mrs. Earl Day, president of the PTA. The new teachers are Miss Ruth Jones of Bennett School, Miss Dorothy Barnett of Ring School, Mrs. Jessie Avery of Wildwood School, Mrs. Eula Huggins Watson of Scott School and Miss Jewell Curtis of Watson School. The purpose of this meeting will be to create a closer feeling of cooperation and altruism.
F. R. Wisdom and L. G. Black, Jr. of Corning have been appointed as dealers for Chevrolet automobiles for Corning territory. The new firm will be known as the B and W Chevrolet Company, operating under a full dealership of the General Motors Corp. Headquarters for the new company are located at the Sinclair Service Station on the southwest corner of West Second and Main streets.
Special services were dedicated to J. W. Black, pioneer local resident, at Corning First Baptist Church last Sunday. Mr. Black was 82 years of age on December 3. Mr. Black has been a resident of Corning for 45 years. He was born in Williamson County, Illinois, on December 3, 1858. On May 18, 1880 he was united in marriage to Mary Gold. From this union six children were born. The family resided in Illinois until 1895 when they moved to Corning. His early life in Illinois was devoted to the sawmill and lumber business and was carried on after he moved to Corning where he became one of the largest operators in lumber in this section of the United States. He has been a member of the Baptist Church of Corning for 35 years and it was largely due to his efforts and liberal contribution that the present beautiful Baptist church building was completed. Despite his advanced age, Mr. Black is still active in business, operating the Corning Novelty Co., the only manufacturer of billiard tables in the south. He is on the job every day and going strong.
New members inducted into the Corning High School chapter of the National Honor Society are: Jean Arnold, Loburtis Stepp, Anna Bartlett, J. O. Black, Evelyn Barnhill, Gussie Smith, Regina Rhea, Nadean Kamerman, Minnie Ahrent, Louise Gallegly, Joan Belford, Virginia Baldridge, Glenna Horn and Rosemary Powell.
Allen Taylor, 28, who resided near Black River, two miles east of Corning, was fatally injured Saturday night when he was stabbed in a fight near Black River Camp and Murrel (Shorty) Casteel, 30, is held in the county jail at Corning on a murder charge.
A Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year from Harold's Grocery, Don B. Harold, proprietor, successor to W. M. Fowler, Corning.

1941
Junior Pillow and Roy Barnhill were presently presented with gold footballs for having been placed on the northeast Arkansas all conference team. Johnny Gallegly and Roy Barnhill, seniors, played in the Dream Game at Memphis last Sunday. This is an annual affair between the star players of Tennessee and those from Arkansas.
At the annual meeting of the officers and directors of the Corning Bank, held last Tuesday, a 15 percent dividend was declared and $2,500 was passed from the undivided profits fund to the surplus fund. All employees received a month's salary bonus. No change was made in the bank's directorate. The Corning Bank's recent statement shows deposits totaling $631,290.23, certified surplus of $15,000 and undivided profits of $25,980.43.
Students from 25 or 30 school districts have been attending Corning High School for the past several years. It is not longer possible to take these out-of-district students free in that the Equalization Fund will not allow claims to be made one from students outside the district. In other words the Corning district has been drawing $18 for each student in average daily attendance plus $12 for each one transported. This is no longer possible unless the students are within the Corning district. Thus if these boys and girls from out of the Corning district wish to be able to have a free high school to attend, the district in which they live must become a part of the Corning district. The two big problems of consolidation, roads and poor transportation, have been practically eliminated now. Good, all-weather roads lead into Corning from every direction and also all-steel body, well heated school busses can be operated every day in the year.
Perhaps no event has touched the people of Corning as did the passing of one of its young men, Thomas Bridges, Jr., 16, who slipped quietly away last Saturday at 5:45 p.m. after nearly nine months of suffering from a fractured spine.
Corning YMCC held its regular meeting at the State Theatre building, Monday evening. About 40 members were present. President J. E. Butler was in charge of the meeting. First business of the meeting was election of a board of directors as follows: C. R. Black, T. C. Gallegly, E. J. Cox and Dr. E. D. Jernigan. L. G. Black, president of Corning Public School Board, gave a report on the progress made toward construction of new school buildings for Corning. He stated that the architects' plans of the new structures will soon be ready to present to WPA authorities. The plans call for a high school and a grade school building with greatest possible floor space, modern throughout, a home economics cottage and vocational agricultural building.
The Franklin 5c and 10c store has been moved to the Day building, at the entrance of Hop Alley on West Second Street.
Three youths were killed here Saturday at 6:30 p.m. when the northbound Missouri Pacific train No. 8 struck a pickup truck at a grade crossing on US Highway 62. Lester Rice, 16, and Mildred Rice, 14, children of Mr. and Mrs. Claud Rice, and Victor Bratch, 15, stepson of Bert Snider, met death almost instantly. The truck was driven by Mr. Rice who lives six miles northeast of Corning. His wife and daughter, Betty Ruth, 9, were riding with him in the cab. 
A. L. Hays recently sold the Corning Lake Club grounds to G. A. Jimerson, C. R. Black, Jr. and Miss Birdie Sullins of Corning. The new owners plan to improve the property as a recreation center.
S. B. Neill of Corning assumed his duties as Game Warden of Clay County last Saturday, succeeding B. E. Redwine.
Plans for modern new school buildings for Corning were unanimously approved at a meeting of the local YMCC at the Christian church basement last Monday evening. It was stated that total cost of the structures, high school and grade school, home economics cottage and vocational agriculture buildings, would be $140,000, of which $50,000 would be the school district's part, $90,000 to be paid by WPA. It will require ten to 12 months to complete.
J. M. Rhea, local hardware dealer for 33 years and one of Corning's outstanding civic leaders, will retire from active business this week. Mr. Rhea has sold his hardware to his nephew, T. H. Rhea, with whom he has been associated in business for many years and J. E. Butler, well known local business man and official of the Clay County Cotton Company. The new partnership will operate under the same name, Rhea Hardware Store. T. H. Rhea will have active management of the business.
The cornerstone of the old brick school building of Corning was opened last Friday by WPA workmen in charge of the razing of the burned structure. Many local residents, including several older citizens who attended the ceremonies of the cornerstone laying nearly 40 years ago, viewed the papers, still legible, although yellow with age. Contents of the cornerstone are now in charge of the school board. Among the interesting and historic papers found were minutes of Corning Brilliant Rebekah Lodge No. 54, written by the late Ida M. Beloate, wife of C. V. Beloate, pioneer resident of Corning. This lodge was organized on July 2, 1901, just four months before the cornerstone was laid, and the names of the charter members were recorded as follows: Brothers, C. V. Beloate, J. F. Cox, Jacob Brobst, Sisters Ida Mae Cox, Ida M. Beloate, Bettie Woodall, Sophia Thomas, Lola Orr, Eliza West, and Mae Roberts. Records of Corning School District No. 8 removed from the stone gave the following interesting information of that day: Corning School District No. 8 embraces the Town of Corning with surrounding territory of some 22 square miles in extent. Enumeration for the year of 1901 gave the total number of white males 190 females 187. A printed program of the first annual commencement of Corning Public School exercises would be held at the Opera House on Thursday, March 28, 1901, at 7 p.m. Among the numbers were: Address, W. T. Stephens; Salutatory, Estella Black; Corning High School, R. C. Steward; Our Associates, Opal Barnes; Recitation, Janie Tinsley; Arkansas, Class Orator, Clarence E. Beloate; French Revolution, Murtle Hettle; Purpose of Life, Effie Crabtree; Class Historian, J. W. Crabtree; Class Prophet, Wm. K. Spillman; Valedictorian, Mazie Barnhill. Eugene Hill; Queen Victoria, Maude Oliver; The Modern Woman, F. H. Dickerson; The Modern Woman, Bessie Barnhill. Names of the members of the Board of Education of Corning Public School for that year appeared on the program: Dr. J. G. Dickson, president; Dr. A. B. McKinney, treasurer; J. W. Harb, secretary. Teachers W. T. Stephens, principal; Mrs. W. T. Stephens, J. T. Black, D. A. Seibert, Mrs. Estelle Webb. The cornerstone was laid on Tuesday October 1, 1901. Two Indian head pennies were found in the stone, one dated in 1896 and deposited by J. M. Oliver, Jr., who was born in the year the coin was dated. Four copies of the Clay County Courier and one copy of the Corning Leader were found in the cornerstone. 
Mrs. J. W. Black, 78, beloved pioneer Corning resident, passed away last Sunday at 5:30 p.m. in Corning Hospital, following a long illness. She was a faithful member of Corning Baptist Church for 46 years and was an important force in the early expansion of the church.
Approximately 200 women of Corning and Clay County gathered in the State Theatre, Thursday afternoon, May 8, for the Vitamized Cooking School and Food Fair which was conducted under the joint sponsorship of the Arkansas-Missouri Power Corporation and the Clay County REA, in cooperation with this newspaper, the electric appliance dealers and food merchants in this community.
The Corning Baptist Church will dedicate its new house of worship Sunday, June 1st. Dr. J. S. Compere, former pastor who led in the erection of the building, will preach the sermon. The building was erected in 1939, and the opening services were held November 19. At that time there was a small indebtedness against some of the equipment, and the baptistry was not complete, so the dedication services were postponed.
P. L. Oliver, local cotton man, purchased the Corning Roller Mill Gin from Arnold and Harold last Wednesday. Oliver now owns and operates gins at Nimmons, Carryville, St. Francis, Lafe and Pollard.
Corning Oddfellows and Rebekahs will stage a big two-day picnic for the public at Wynn's beautiful park, one-half mile west of Corning on Friday and Saturday, July 11 and 12.
The Arkansas Electric Medical Association and the National Electric Medical Association are holding a joint four-day convention in Little Rock first of this week. Dr. J. S. Schirmer of Corning First Vice President of the Arkansas Electric Medical Association, is scheduled to be elected president of the state association.
The vote on the question of a nine mills building fund tax for Corning School District, in a special election last Tuesday almost unanimously favored the bond issue. The vote was 103 for and two against the proposed tax. The school board announced yesterday that work of removing remains of the old school building would start July 15th and that construction of the new school building is expected to begin about August 15th.
John Ermert has moved his variety store to his beautiful new building on West First Street, next door to Fowler's Grocery.
Plans are rapidly nearing completion for the regular opening of Corning High School Monday morning, September 1.
The high school will be housed in the Fred Arnold building formerly occupied by the Ben Franklin store, and the entire second floor of the same building now occupied by the Public Library and WPA office and Mr. Arnold's office. Two new school buses have recently been purchased to serve more adequately the high school students in the districts that have been announced to the Corning Districts. One of these buses will serve Hopsonville, Dell and Mager schools and the other will serve the Woodall, Heelstring and Richwoods schools.
Western Clay County has a new industry, a ski factory. New York capitalists recently bought large tracts of timber in this district and have opened a mill at Brookings where the hickory timber will be worked up into blanks and shipped to northeastern plants for finishing. A little pulling together and boosting might induce other northern industries to locate in western Clay County. Labor troubles are few in Arkansas.
Plans are complete to begin the regular 1941-42 Corning school term Monday morning, September 1, at 8:30, September 1. Bus number one will be driven by Charles (Skeet) Ward again this year. Bus number two will be driven by Earl Blaylock. The busses will unload the students directly in front of the Fred Arnold building down town where all the high school work will be conducted. This building has been remodeled to the extent that there will be more room in it for high school purposes than in the old building. First grade will report to the basement of the Baptist Church. The second grade will report to the Church. Third grade will report to the Baptist Church basement. All fourth grade students are asked to assemble at the courthouse. The fifth and sixth grades will assemble at the Church. Berel Boyce will be band director.
A new, important gravel road in the western Clay County, extending from Wildwood school, is nearing completion. The three and one-half mile road is being constructed entirely by public donations of cash and labor. The Wildwood-Ring communities have long needed an outlet to the main highway.
The regular meeting of the P.N.G. Club was held in the home of C. V. Beloate on August 28th with 18 members present. A most interesting meeting followed. The meeting was a complete surprise to Mr. Beloate, who is a charter member of Brilliant Rebekah Lodge No. 54 of Corning. This lodge was organized July 2, 1894. The president, Mrs. A. N. Johnson, presided over a short business session, followed by good talks. Mr. Beloate made each one present to feel very welcome and invited the club back just any convenient time. The minutes of the Rebekah Lodge, dated October 1, 1901, with Mrs. C. V. Beloate as secretary, were read by Mrs. J. N. Hughes. These minutes were found in the cornerstone of the school building after it was destroyed by fire and was very interesting to all. Mrs. May Ward and Mr. Beloate are the only living charter members and each was presented a gift by the members. The minutes contained date of institution, 1894; name of Assembly President, charter members and officers of that year, and were written and signed by Mrs. Ida M. Beloate. Miss Vi Beloate, May Ward, Maud Webb, Mamie Folsom, Ada Ousnamer and Clara Hughes made very impressive talks.
Robert Johnson, 13 year old son of Mr. A. W. Johnson of Corning, fell from the Missouri Pacific railroad trestle just south of town, Friday afternoon and drowned. He had been swimming with several companions in Corning Lake.
Homer Pillow, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Homer Pillow, was elected captain of the 1941 Bobcat football team in an election held last Thursday. Pillow is playing his third year at center, having lettered at tackle his freshman year in school. He has twice been picked on the first string NE Arkansas Conference football team at the center position. Lawrence Creek, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Creek of near Corning, was elected sub-captain. Creek has lettered twice at guard position, but this year has been shifted to the backfield.
The Clay County Selective Service Board has sent notices to the following named men to report at Piggott at 7 p.m. on October 1st for induction into the U.S Army: James William Long, Ural Ray Amick, Clifford Reel Tombs, Melvin Ingram, Jesse Willard Woof, Edwin Virgil Ahrent, John Virgil Crittenden, Bert Bronel Busby, Nolan Lee Fox, Alfred Eugene McMullen, Harold Henry Carter, Orville Watson, Roy Grant Blanton, Harold J. Duff, Dee Willard Madison, Cloyce Leslie Stacy, Thomas Earl Arnold, John Lewis Phelan, Jr., Hubert L. Lowery, Ivan Doyle Casey, Avery Luther Harpole and Herman Joe Hobbs.
Herbert Johnson, 32, Corning man was shot to death as he sat at the supper table with his family, Monday, at 7 p.m. The charge from a shotgun instantly killed Johnson and several of the small pellets narrowly missed Johnson's wife. Johnson's father in law, Lee Blue, 55, a local carpenter, surrendered to Deputy Sheriff R. R. Ruff, a few minutes later and admitted that he fired the charge through a window in the Johnson home, Ruff said.
J. W. Black and L. A. Sorrels have opened a new factory in Corning for the manufacture of bowling alleys, auto truck beds, kitchen cabinets and other wood products. The company, known as the Dixie Bowling Alley Manufacturing Co., started production in its new 30 by 50 foot building on the lots adjoining Garrett's Garage in northwest Corning.
One of the most important real estate transactions here in several months was consummated last Monday when Ed. V. and Brooks Sheeks purchased the Corning Inn from G. E. Raborn. The new owners have taken charge and will continue to operate the business under the name, Corning Inn, which is also the local Missouri Pacific Bus Station. Mrs. Marie Watson will be in charge of serving regular meals. Mr. and Mrs. Raborn, who have operated the Corning Inn for 12, years, will move to Cape Girardeau, where they will reside until next spring. 
Last Monday evening the first and second year Latin students of Corning High School and their teacher, Miss Pen Lyle Compere, were hosts at an Old Roman banquet given in the educational department of the church with the high school faculty and their wives as guests. Invitations in the form of scrolls had been issued earlier and the guests entered the banquet room through an ivy twined entrance to the banquet tables. Attending: Superintendent and Mrs. S. D. Snow, Mr. and Mrs. M. O. Thomas, Miss Alice Black, Miss Edith Griffin, Mr. and Mrs. Ned Mosley, Hampton Ethridge, Miss Compere, Herbert Ahrent. Carolyn Belford, Jack Butler, Carroll Cox, Louise Davis, Peggy Frazier, Altina Lester, Veda Maddox, Jim Bob Neely, Don Polk, Geneva Ballard, Buddy Bridges, Maxine Brown, Betty Jane Drilling, Emma Leslie Esmon, Pat Few, Mary Francis Ford, Dorothy Garrett, Sally Hardesty, Sylvia Kisner, Juanita Miller, L. H. Mizell, Verneta Redmon, Dixie Polk, Doris Smith, Marylea Vines, Betty Joe Wilson and Kathleen Wynn.
Robert Largue of Corning, charged with burglary and theft of $89.99 from Ed Eldracker's home here last January, was removed to Blytheville last Saturday where he appeared before Judge G. E. Keck, entered a plea of guilty and received a sentence of two years in the penitentiary.
Drilling started last week on two wells which will supply water to the new Corning Fish Hatchery expected to produce its first fish next spring. The wells will be about 100 feet deep. The office and workshop building has been completed. The supervisor's home is nearly completed. Luther Hinkle has charge of the work.
Harold Hodges of Jonesboro has been appointed superintendent of the Clay County Electric Cooperative Corporation, REA project, serving Clay, Randolph, and Greene Counties, with the headquarters in Corning, succeeding Willis French who resigned to devote his time to farming interests. French had been in charge of the REA project since its organization in 1939.
Albert Elders, 43 of near Corning, died at 6 p.m. Sunday of injuries received when struck by a Missouri Pacific train at noon that day. Elders had visited the home of relatives in Blue School District north of Corning and was returning here when struck by an engine and caboose. He was carrying a shotgun and a tool box. Passenger train No. 4 had just gone north and apparently he was unaware of the second train.
Four local youths, Charles (Shod) Bailey, Jack Williams, George Southerly and J. B. Webb, charged with grand larceny, have confessed to local officers. Monday the youths appeared before Justice of the Peace B. H. Bowers and waived hearing and are all held in the county jail awaiting action of the January term of circuit court. All confessed to being present when J. H. Companiotte's garage here was burglarized several days ago of brass valued at $6.80 and a quantity of bed clothing.
N. T. Patrick, 50, who resided in New Hope community, southeast of Knobel, was instantly killed last Saturday near his home when he was struck by a limb of a large tree he was felling.
Deputy Sheriff R. R. Ruff and two officers of the US Revenue Department captured a still on Little River Island near Brookings one day last week.
About 200 employees of O. L. Woods' cotton gin, mercantile company and tenants of his farm properties were given a big barbecue and outing near Taylor school last Sunday. The happy occasion was also Mr. Woods' birthday. Entertainment featured music by the Whelchel Cousins six-piece band and interesting contestants.
Miss Virginia Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Smith of near Corning, was crowned C.H.S. queen at the annual homecoming football game last Thursday afternoon.
The United States declared war against Germany and Italy on Thursday, December 11. These two nations declared war against the United States Wednesday. A war declaration was drafted for Congress Monday at the same time the White House disclosed that American forces lost two warships and 3,000 dead and wounded in the Japanese attack on Hawaii, Sunday. The White House said that the surprise dawn attack of the Japanese, Sunday, resulted in the capsizing of an old battle ship, the destruction of a destroyer, damage to other vessels and destruction of a relatively large number of planes.
Harrison Grayson, local chief of police, resigned Monday and immediately went to work as guard for the Missouri Pacific Lines at Black River bridge, three miles south of Corning. Every precaution against sabotage of property is being made by the Missouri Pacific and other railroads since the US entered the war. J. O. Meadows of Corning is now serving as temporary chief of police.
Clarence G. James and William H. Romine, both of Corning, were accepted for enlistment in the United States Marine Corps on December 15, at the Jonesboro Recruiting Office.
The YMCC and local merchants will stage a big Christmas party at 6:30 next Wednesday (Christmas Eve night) when gifts of apples, oranges and candy will be presented to children of Corning community. Charles Bowers is chairman of the finance committee, assisted by Bill McCauley. Thomas H. Rhea will have charge of the tree and M. O. Thomas will direct the Boy Scouts in sacking candy and fruit, Hilley Bridgeforth, local manager of Ark-Mo Power Corporation and James Rhodes, electrical engineer for the REA, will have charge of lighting the tree. Postmaster W. Earl Polk and McCauley will have charge of distribution.

1942
Mrs. W. E. Pulliam, who resides near Corning, has received word of her two sons in the US Navy. M. E Pulliam, a Chief Petty Officer, has served 20 years in the US Navy. He was on the USS Oglala which was sunk a few days ago. He escaped without injury. L. E. Pulliam, Seaman First Class, has served 16 years. He was on the USS Nevada which also was sunk. He was wounded in the bomb explosion and is in the hospital at Honolulu. Mrs. Pulliam's daughter, Mrs. James E. Cruce, lives in Honolulu. Her husband was also on the USS Oglala.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Johnson recently of Neelyville have purchased the Sunshine Cafe from Mr. and Mrs. O. J. Harold and the new owners are now in charge.
William Cleabert Collins is the first Clay County boy known to have been killed in action in the Philippines, according to word received here by the soldier's uncle, Harry Collins. He died in action on December 11, 1941 in Manila harbor, Philippine Islands. He was born in Corning, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Collins, who resided in Corning and Knobel for many years. He was employed at the local Steinberg Pearl Button Plant, leaving for St. Louis about two or three years ago, where he resided until he enlisted in the US Army.
Barney Towell, 28, of near Moark was shot and seriously wounded during a disturbance at Black River Camp last Wednesday night. It was reported that Deputy Sheriff J. O. Meadows, who was called to quiet the disturbance, shot Towell. Meadows is also serving as Chief of Police of Corning.
C.H.S. Freshman, Who's Who Contest: prettiest, Betty Jane Drilling; handsomest, Gene Brent, Kathleen Wynn, Lehman Fowler and Elmer Smith; most popular, Gene Brent and Betty Jane Drilling; most likely to succeed, Marylea Vines and L. H. Mizell; wittiest, Marylea Vines and Sterling Blanton; best cut-up, Betty Jane Drilling, Marylea Vines and Richard Rogers; smartest, Wilma Coonce and L. H. Mizell. 
Judge Neil Killough issued a court order last Tuesday afternoon temporarily padlocking Black River Camp, located two miles east of Corning., The order was executed immediately by Sheriff Ross Magee and his Western District Deputy, R. R. Ruff. The petition, filed with the court Tuesday by Prosecuting Attorney Marcus Fietz, was signed by 30 taxpaying residents of Gleghorn Township in which Black River Camp is located.
A thief unbolted a spare tire and wheel from a Model A sedan, parked on the street next to McCauley store here Monday at 6:30 p.m. and leisurely rolled the tire and wheel away as shoppers looked on. No one suspected the theft.
A deal was consummated on Thursday of last week in which T. G. Bridges became the owner of the Crystal Drug Store of Corning and P. L. Oliver now owns the former Bridges Cotton Gin at Datto.
One of the most important business deals consummated here since the first of the year, was the sale of Harold's Grocery last Monday to Lowell and Eulis Cochran who are now in charge of the business.
The nation's new draft lottery was fixed today for March 17, St. Patrick's Day. And there will be green capsules to hold the numbers that will decide the order in which between 8,000,000 and 9,000,000 more men will be subject to call for possible military service. 
The public school teachers of the nation have been called upon to begin the sugar rationing program. On March 5, 1942, every teacher is required to make an estimate number of people living in this school district. (This has been completed in the office of the County Supervisor of Schools for every district in the county.) On March 9 and 10 the teachers are required to register all persons that sell sugar, both retailers and wholesalers. On March 18 to 21 teachers in every school district are required to issue books to every consumer of sugar in his district.
P. L. Oliver and J. B. Massey, local cotton men, have opened a feed and seed store in the S. B. Neill concrete building on East First Street.
We, the undersigned, persons who operate places of business in which beer is sold, do agree to the following: That we will not sell beer to any person whom we know or whom we have reason to believe is under 18 years old; That we will not sell beer to any person who is an habitual drunkard, or who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor; That we will not permit any gaming in our place of business; That we will not permit minors to loaf about our places of business, except where they are there to purchase other articles, such as lunches; That we call upon the local officers to assist us in maintaining order about our places of business and ask that they frequently come into our places and where persons are disorderly that they be removed from our place of business: Delmer Smith, Walter Upshaw, J. C. Humphrey, Jim Blunk, Arcade Billiard Parlor, C. E. Ballard, J. W. Smith, W. D. Bennett, Ernest Smith. Copy of this agreement is to be given to the Mayor of Corning.
D. P. Day, 69, prominent and highly respected pioneer citizen of Datto passed away at 11 p.m. last Sunday following a stroke of apoplexy suffered the previous Friday. He was one of the few remaining pioneers of western Clay County. He was born in North Vernon, Ind. and located in the community now known as Datto in 1891.
Big city business property rental values are often determined by the number of people who pass by a given point during the shopping period. Probably that has something to do with Chas. L. Bailey's curiosity in his attempt to estimate the traffic flow through Hop Alley for one hour during a recent Saturday. Sitting in a rear window of his newly erected tin shop, Mr. Bailey clocked 1,781 people who passed by a fixed point in Hop Alley in an hour.
Benjamin Riggs, 32, well known local carpenter committed suicide at his home on East First Street between 9 and 9.39 a.m. yesterday morning. He shot himself in the head with a 12 gauge shotgun, using his left foot to pull the trigger.
Six local boys enlisted in the US Marines here last Tuesday and were assigned to Little Rock for physical examinations: George Ardie Miller, James Lawrence Grayson, Albert Rufus Poynor, Harold Edward Poynor, Sheldon Gregory Nelson, and Cleat Davis.
Drive for scrap rubber nets 73,000 pounds in Clay County.
The Oliver Amusement Company of St. Louis will be here with all kinds of entertainment for the big annual Rebekah-Oddfellow Picnic at Wynn's beautiful park just west of Corning on Friday and Saturday, July 10 and 11.
Actual construction of the Air Forces Basic Flying School, located north of Walnut Ridge, began last week when crews of Forcum-James Construction Company of Dyersburg, Tennessee, began operations.
The Palatka School will open on Monday, July 13th. Mr. and Mrs. Roy Smith, teachers.
According to a statement given to the Courier today by Corning's Mayor Charles R. Black, 24 of Corning's unpaved streets have been oiled to date. This improvement has been made possible by the city officials at a minimum cost to the property owners. The cost is $12 per block.
Walter Upshaw, age 59, well known western Clay County retired farmer-business man terminated his life early last Saturday morning by internal poison. Two Corning business firms were burglarized in the early morning hours last Saturday and Sunday, netting the robber, or robbers approximately $650. The first theft was reported at 1:30 Saturday morning when local night Marshal Frank Woolard, on his regular checkup round, found one of the front doors of the Angle Service Station open. E. V. Sheeks, owner, and M. D. Heppe, manager of the station, were called and investigated. The second robbery occurred at the State Theatre between closing time, 1:30, Sunday morning and daybreak.
The Corning City Council met Wednesday night and reorganized the local fire department, appointed new members as follows: fire chiefs, James Rhodes and Sol Lester, other members are Dan Harold, Charles Lester, Brance Dawson, David Woodring, Percy Bailey, Tobe Whitehead, John Gross and N. Heppe.
Certificates have been issued by the Clay County War Price and Rationing Board No. 11 to the following persons for the purchase of automobile tires and tubes: B. A. Scott, Knobel; G. E. James, Datto; G. G. Smith, Success; Thomas Brothers, Corning. Retreads: Chas. Moore and Sons, Success; Thomas Brothers, Corning; M. C. Richardson, Corning.
Next Thursday, August 27, is Junk Rally Day in Corning. G. A. Jimerson, president of the Corning YMCC will be in charge of arrangements for the day. Rev. B. C. Few will preside as chairman. A. B. Gallegly and Mack Blackwood will take care of collection of waste grease. Others active on the salvage committee are: S. D. Snow, G. A. Lamb, T. G. Bridges, Rev. Harvey Grey, Louis Graber and Wm. Estes.
The Bishop L. Gage Post No. 67 of Corning has far exceeded its quota in the national drive for old phonograph records. The old records will be sold and the money received will be used in providing new recordings for the armed forces. The Corning Post is under the leadership of T. G. Bridges.
Harold Grey, Corning's new Baptist minister, arrived with Mrs. Grey and their two sons, Tuesday evening.
J. F. Baker, former Hickoria merchant, has opened a modern food market in the Lindsey building, two doors south of Corning Post Office.
Dr. J. S. Campbell, State Veterinarian, made laboratory tests on local dairy cows, Friday, and has officially stated that no trace of Bangs disease was found. He conducted the tests for Adams Dairy, 25 cows; W. O. Hettle, five cows; W. E. Polk, one; Norace Adams, one; Tezzie Smith, one.
List of all servicemen from Corning in armed forces was in September 4, 1942 issue.
Bus and motor carriers operating in Arkansas were notified by the Arkansas Corporation Commission Tuesday that effective immediately they must revise their schedule to comply with the new 35-mile war time speed limit.
Corning public schools will open for a regular eight month term Monday, November 2. The new high school building will be ready for occupancy and all the high school classes will be housed in this building. The second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth grades will be housed upstairs in the Fred Arnold building occupied last year by the high school. The first grade will be located in the new high school building. No grades will be taught in the churches or courthouse this year.
R. R. Ruff this week was appointed game warden for Clay County, effective October 1, 1942. Ruff will success James Smith who is resigning his commission that date.
Registration for gasoline will begin November 9th in all parts of the country except the already rationed East. 
Miss Annie Rae Taylor, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. W. O. Taylor of Corning, this week enlisted in the US Army Nurses Corps and is stationed at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. So far as we can learn, Miss Taylor has the distinction of being the first girl from Clay County, and perhaps northeast Arkansas, to become an active member of Uncle Sam's Army.
Coffee will be rationed starting at midnight November 28, at the rate of one pound for each person over 15 years old.
William Edgar (Buck) Pulliam, 21, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Pulliam, Corning, has been unaccounted for since the Battle of Corregidor, according to information received from the War Department. The last communication received confirmed that report they had previously received that he was on Corregidor, May 1, 1942, after Bataan was taken. Six days later Corregidor fell and with it many American boys.
Patiently waiting word of Lieutenant Lucas Cockrum and Private James C. Stacey missing since Bataan and Corregidor Island fell, are their parents and many relatives. Lt. Cockrum was last heard from February 12, 1942 when he wrote from Bataan. Private Stacey was serving in the Philippines at the time of surrender of Bataan.
Registration of 18-year-old youths starts Friday; will defer men past 37.
Saturday is the last day when motorists may turn in all tires in excess of five to be eligible for rationed gasoline. No automobiles for which the owner has more than five tires is entitled to gasoline after December 12.
Over 50 members of the Corning YMCC were present at the annual banquet held at the Sunshine Cafe, Tuesday night. President George A. Jimerson presided over the meeting. Mayor C. R. Black made an interesting report on the year's accomplishments as chairman of the Corning Cemetery Association. The highlight of the evening was the War Bond Auction sponsored by Mrs. M. G. Hoffman, chairman, assisted by Mrs. J. E. Butler.
Glenn D. Kimball of Moark was notified by Sheriff-elect Bill Bookout, Monday, of his appointment to the office of deputy sheriff and county jailer for the Western District of Clay County.
F. R. Wisdom announced that the new B. and W. roller skating rink will open in the building formerly occupied by the B. and W. repair shop, one block west of the Junction of Highways 67 and 62, in northwest Corning on Saturday, March 21.
The C.H.S. Senior Play, "Abner Snidge from Turnip Ridge," a three act comedy, will be presented at the State Theatre on April 17. The cast: Regina Rhea, Anna Bartlett, Bill Atkison, Gussie Smith, Joann Belford, Lawrence Creek, Lobourtis Stepp, Louise Gallegly, Junior Headly, Douglas Kimball, Perkins Day, Vonda J. Johnson.
Harry McIlvoy, 38, local welder, had a narrow escape from serious injury last Monday when a 280 gallon capacity gasoline storage tank he was repairing exploded at the rear of Woods' Mercantile Company store here.
The second annual Boy's Day will be held on the last Tuesday of this month, March 31, when the Hi-Y Club of Corning High School will take charge of Corning city government. Billy Richardson will serve as mayor and Billy Polk as recorder for the day. The first local Boy's Day was held last March 25 with Melvin Puckett as mayor and Ralph Robinson as recorder.
A total of 220 votes were polled in the annual city election for Corning last Tuesday, the first election held here as a Second Class City. The ticket was unopposed except for the office of city marshal, in which F. S. Rothe, the regular candidate received 190 votes and James Meadows, a write-in candidate received 28. Following are the newly elected city officers: mayor, C. R. Black; recorder, Winfred Polk; aldermen, J. E. Butler, Dan Harold, H. B. Sheeks, J. H. Magee and Punk McElvain; city attorney, J. L. Taylor; marshal, F. S. Rothe; treasurer, G. A. Lamb.
The annual meeting of the Clay County Electric Cooperative Corporation was held at the State Theatre in Corning last Friday with approximately 150 members and friends from Clay, Greene and Randolph Counties present. The board is composed of the following directors: F. M. Ermert of Corning, Hite Stubblefield, Elevenpoint; J. F. Ellis, Pocahontas; H. B. Beardslee, Rector; Mrs. Katie Allbright, Peach Orchard; Mrs. Esther Hitt, Piggott and J. C. Latta, Pollard.
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Mizell of Corning now have four sons in the service. Lieutenant Winton Mizell, Corporal Earl Mizell, Jr., Cadet Sergeant Walter Mizell and Lowell, who volunteered February 2 and was assigned to the Signal Division of the Air Corps.
The Office of Price Administration fixed wartime maximum prices for "virtually everything Americans eat, wear and use" at levels prevalent during March.
Corning Central Elementary School remains as an "A" grade school, according to recent classification by the State Department of Education.
A motion has been passed by the Corning, Piggott and Rector school board members, fixing the opening date for the three schools sometime between October 15 and November 1. An eight month, 5-day week continuous term will be held by Piggott, Rector and Corning for 1942-43.
All the farmers, businessmen and other citizens of Clay County are requested to collect and deliver to salvage dealers, all scrap iron, rags, paper, rubber, brass, copper, and aluminum on Saturday of this week which has been designated Clay County Salvation [Salvage?] Day.
Thirty-seven seniors of Corning High School will receive diplomas at commencement exercises next Thursday evening at the State Theatre. The graduates are: Lawrence Creek, Elsilene Yates, Loburtis Stepp, Nadine Kamerman, Bill Richardson, Louise Gallegly, Ezra Cates, Dolly Misenhamer, Olive Upshaw, Juanita Reeves, Glenda Reeves, J. B. Smith, Doyne Parrish, Everett Mitchell, Wayne Rogers, Regina Rhea, Bill Atkison, Evelyn Barnhill, Minnie Ahrent, M. B. Ainley, Jr., Edna Helms, Gussie Smith, Thomas Keelin, Vonda June Johnson, Bill Belford, Joan Belford, Sammy Ratcliffe, Wilma Wisdom, Juanita Ousnamer, Perkins Day, Douglas Kimball, Anna Bartlett, Kathryn Moore, Rosemary Powell and John Jonas.

1943
The J. W. Black Lumber Company held its seventh annual Christmas party and dinner for employees at the IOOF Hall, Saturday evening, December 19. The dinner was served to 60 employees and officials of the company by the PTA under the supervision of Mrs. J. E. Butler.
John Quincy Adams, 41, foreman of the Missouri Pacific section crew at Corning, was killed at an Army troop train late last Saturday just north of Corning Lake trestle, while attempting to remove a rail motor car from the tracks.
Corning Masonic Lodge held its annual supper at the Sunshine Cafe Thursday night and installed the following officers: John P. Ermert, WM: Chas. M. Vines, SW: E. W. Cochran, JW: T. George Bridges, treasurer; Clyde F. Lasater, Secretary; Leslie D. Russell, SD; John C. Joyner, JD; Bedford C. England, Tyler; Lowell F. Cochran, W. W. Henry, masters of ceremonies and T. W. Wynn, chaplain.
At the Merchants Night meeting of YMCC Monday, it was unanimously agreed by a large attendance to close their stores at 6 p.m. each week day and 10 p.m. Saturdays, beginning February 1.
Fire damage to the State Theatre building and four occupants last Friday night has been estimated at $8,500, and plans for reopening the theatre for Saturday showing are being rushed. The fire started in the projection room. Chas. S. Ward and his son, Johnny Mack, were in the projecting room at the time. Three other occupants of the building suffered little damage, The Dorlene Beauty Shop, Dr. E. D. Jernigan and the Corning Public Library.
Calvin Huddleston, age 32, Corning night marshal and Chester Hart, age 33, button cutter, were instantly killed at 5:30 a.m. last Saturday when the 1934 Chevrolet coach they were driving was reported to have run into the side of a Frisco locomotive. The fatal accident occurred on Highway 67 about six miles north of Neelyville junction.
Rationing of canned, dried and frozen fruits and vegetables will begin March 1, and retail sales of the more than 200 items to be rationed will be frozen on February 20. Beginning Monday, February 22, housewives will register for War Ration Book No. Two which will allow a total of 48 points for each member of the family for the month of March.
Winston Young, naval gunner, age 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Young of Corning, was one of the survivors of the USS Chicago, sunk January 30 in the Solomon Battle, which occurred between January 29 and February 4.
Fire of undetermined origin burned the house and barn owned by Jim Shephard in south Corning last Saturday afternoon. Two horses were lost and total loss was estimated at about $800.
Fighting with the US forces on the Tunisian Front, Staff Sergeant Gerald Theodore Crafton was cited by his commanding general Monday for heroism during the landing of American forces in Tunisia, North Africa. He was awarded the Silver Star.
Mr. and Mrs. Hosea Davis and daughter, Miss Virginia, of Mammoth Springs, have moved into the resident house at the federal fish hatchery, west of Corning, where he will be in charge.
Sgt. Ralph Melvin Crafton is reported missing in action since February 20 on the North African Front, according to a telegram received by his father last Saturday from the War Department.
Rationing of meats, fats, oils and butter effective Monday.
The city council met last Friday night with Mayor Charles R. Black at his office with councilmen John Magee, John A. Butler, Dewey Ousnamer, Mack Blackwood and Dan Harold present and elected J. D. Pitman city marshal. Roy Carroll, former Biggers marshal, is on the night shift.
One of the largest real estate transactions in Corning in a number of years was closed the first part of this week when J. F. Arnold purchased 280 acres of farm land from Henry Higginbotham near Peach Orchard. The Higginbotham farm was turned over to Earl Day, later in an exchange for the group of stores known as the Hopson Building, occupied by the Corning Post Office, Fitzgerald Drug Store, Drilling's 5 and 10, Ark-Mo Power Co., Sunshine Cafe, Arcade Billiard Parlor, OK Barber Shop, the room formerly occupied by Doc's Bowling Alley, the Cameo Beauty Shop and in Hop Alley, the Gross Cafe, Gage's shoe repair and Townsend's Radio Shop. The Hopson Building was built by the late Judge Hopson. The city property acquired by Mr. Arnold gives him 25 units of rental property in the heart of Corning's business section.
The Corning school auditorium has been completed and will officially be opened to the public Friday at 8 p.m. when the Corning High School Junior Class presents their annual play, "Hobgoblin House." The cast: Charles Ainley, Loretta Kennedy, Jack Butler, Carroll Cox, Mazie Smith. 
Definite plans were made Monday night by the YMCC for the erection of a billboard which will bear the names of soldiers, sailors, marines and other local men in the service of their country.
W. A. Kamerman has purchased the former H. Goode home and 40 acre farm located three quarters of a mile north of Corning on US Highway 67. The deal was recently closed with the former owner, John Marr.
As announced in last week's issue by Mayor Black, Saturday, May 15, will be the last day that swine will be permitted to be kept in the city limits.
The five school board members of School District No. 8 are L. G. Black, T. G. Bridges, T. C. Gallegly, Oscar Bennett and W. W. Bennett. The 11 outlying wing schools included in District No. 8 are: Scott, Watson, Wildwood, Williams, Hopsonville, Richwoods, Woodall, Dell, Mager, Ring and Bennett.
Graduation exercises will be held in the auditorium, Thursday, May 27. Members of the class: Mary Alice Ahrent, Milburn Banks, Geneva Ballard, Billy Bennett, Nellie Bennett, Osel Bennett, Thelma Bennett, Merle Brooks, Norman Bryant, Jack Butler, Fauniel Cantwell, Doris Smith Carter, Mildred Crabtree, Betty Cochran, Lester Crafton, Harold Cunningham, A. D. Downs, Jr., Alma Lea Gibbs, Lawrence Grayson, Carrel Hester, Jr., Wilma Burns Hubbard, J. E. Kennedy, Jr., Lee Roy Kringbaum, Helen Lunsford, Marietta Magee, Chloe Masterson, Georgia Moore, Edith Mulhollen, Aden Parrish, Mary Lee Phelan, William E. Polk, Jr., Clarence Rice, Jo Ann Robinson, Betty Lee Russell, Marie Shaver, Norma Simpson, Doyle Smith, Fred A. Smith, Virginia Smith, Anna Belle Tilton, Gerald Dee Wisdom and William Robert Wynn.
The schools in District No. 8 have a faculty of 28 teachers. The teachers in the Wing schools are: Miss Eula Huggins Watson, Scott; Mrs. Vivian Walker, Watson; Miss Tessie Crafton, Wildwood; Mrs. Jack Stafford, Dell; Mrs. Wilma Endicott, Mager; John Hawkins, Ring.; Mrs. Oscar Bennett, Bennett. Teachers in the central system are: Mrs. Cecil McCormack, Mrs. George Bridges, Mrs. Charles Bowers, Mrs. Mack Blackwood, Miss Fannie Mae Burrell, Miss Jewell Curtis, Miss Emmagene Turner, Mrs. Joe Cox, Miss Isabel Wynn, Miss Pat Oliver, Wendell Rollans, Miss Maurine Hatfield, Miss Mildred Hatfield, Supt. Silas Snow, and Mrs. J. S. Compere.
Private William E. (Buck) Pulliam dies in Japanese prison camp in the Philippine Islands.
Corning school officials were notified by the vocational division of the State Department of Education that an application for a Home Economics department had been approved. The department will be federally aided. Mrs. Frances Pettit has been employed to head its department. 
The Italian Government ceased fighting the Allied forces and agreed to unconditional surrender terms at 11:30 Wednesday. General Dwight Eisenhower, who led the Allied forces to victory in Tunisia and Sicily, announced that the armistice was granted with the approval of Russia, as well as Great Britain and the United States.
Mrs. Dade O. Cox, wife of Tax Collector Fred J. Cox, has been appointed deputy county clerk, succeeding Belford C. England, who has handed in his resignation effective November 1.
Sheriff Bramlett, formerly of Paragould, was elected to serve as city marshal, at a meeting of the city council in Mayor C. R. Black's office Monday morning.
Gene Oliver Ermert, 15, son of Mr. and Mrs. James A. Ermert of Richwoods Community, was seriously injured last Sunday afternoon when his car was ditched three miles west of Corning on Highway 67.
President Roosevelt met with Stalin and Churchill; Map plan for three-way invasion of Europe.
Armed with a certified copy a court order, issued by Judge Neil Killough as of February 12, 1942, in the Circuit of the Western District of Clay County, Sheriff Bill Bookout and Deputy Glenn Kimball padlocked Black River Camp near here. Taken into custody at the time were 41 cases of beer, seven quarts of apple jack cider and a juke box (beetle organ) all being held at county seat in Corning.
The Church of Christ has announced that they have purchased the Felsberg lots where the Felsberg Lumber Company and Mortuary buildings formerly stood, across from Letbetter Blacksmith Shop. A new building will be erected on this site in the spring.

1944
Pfc Clifford Fowler, former Corning boy, was killed November 15 on an assignment with the British Commandos in Italy.
Deposits at the Corning Bank have increased more than $245,060 during the fiscal year, 1943, ending December 31. Considering the past year as the worst crop year in 12 years, this speaks highly for the management of our local banking institution, especially in view of the fact that the bank has sold thousands of dollars worth of war bonds during that time that ordinarily would have been placed on deposit.
Lowell F. Cochran, who has been serving as chief clerk at the Clay County Western District War Price and Ration Board, has been advanced to Field Price Representative for the district embracing ten boards, including Clay, Randolph, Lawrence, Craighead, Crittenden, Greene, Poinsett and Mississippi Counties. Mrs. D. M. Hines who has been assisting Cochran at the local board, was named chief clerk.
The financial statement of the City of Corning, which is included in The Courier this week, issued by our mayor, C. R. Black, is even better than last year's, despite the heavy expense incurred during the past year and his untiring efforts in providing the city with competent peace officers to enforce necessary measures for law and order and in securing laborers to keep our streets and alleys clean and sanitary. At the beginning of his first year as mayor of Corning, during his 1942 term, Mayor Black concluded the fiscal year with $875.12 in cash deposits at the Corning Bank, an increase of $755.35 when he took office. In addition, there were $2,965.45 reserved for payments of bonds.
This year, as the statement shows, there is $2,103.75 in the general fund, an increase of $1,228.40 over last year. War bonds credited to the city's account, reserved for bond payment, are $2,220.
Mack Blackwood and Norace Adams closed one of the largest business transactions of recent years in Corning last Thursday, when they purchased the entire stock of the H. Goode Hardware and Implement Company.
Members of the Corning Young Men's Civic Club enthusiastically endorsed plans for a school band to begin preparation within two weeks and voted unanimously to sponsor the new musical unit of Corning public schools.
The two-story stone building occupied by the local OPA office and Stephen's Cleaners on Second Street and owned by Mrs. Elizabeth Barnett, was sold last Saturday to R. O. Smith, who recently purchased the Arcade Recreation Parlor equipment. Smith also purchased the furniture and fixtures of the rooming house in the top floor of the Barnett building.
Announcing the opening of The Corning Implement Co., complete John Deere farm implement and tractor sales and service. Sales, Service and Parts, The Corning Implement Co., H. H. Harris, manager, Corning.
Fresh, pure cream, 50 cents per quart, delivered. H. S. Johnson, Corning, Arkansas.
Fire of undetermined origin caused heavy damage to the home of Mr. and Mrs. D. L. Ousnamer on East First Street early Wednesday afternoon.
John W. Black, pioneer Arkansas lumber man, died Tuesday, March 21, after a short illness. He was born December 3, 1858 and was one of the oldest lumber men in the south, establishing the firm that bears his name, almost 50 years ago. He decided to move to Arkansas and loading their possessions into a box car, they arrived in Corning on January 17, 1895. Mr. Black's first job was that of cutting and hauling ice from the Corning Lake. The next three years he tried farming after which he established the present J. W. Black Lumber Company.
Winnie D. Simpson, age 83, one of Corning's oldest residents, died in a Little Rock hospital, Friday, March 24. She was the widow of the late Dr. A. R. Simpson and came here at the time of their marriage 57 years ago in 1885. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church and the Order of the Eastern Star for 35 years. She served as Worthy Grand Matron in 1907.
Bruce Barnhill, son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Barnhill, Route two, has received his M. D. degree at University of Arkansas. He has taken four years of medicine at the U of A and his last year was under the supervision of the US Naval training program. He will receive his commission as Lieutenant in the near future.
Ann Hutchins and Gordon Hutchins purchased the Ward Theatre building from Mrs. Mae Ward on March 29. The real estate transaction included the two rooms in the rear of the theatre building facing Highway 62.
William Anthony Brown, who had been a resident of western Clay County for nearly 78 years, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Perry Poyner, one and one-half miles northeast of Corning.
Corning High School, for the first time, is sending a student representative to Boys' State which will be held in Little Rock from May 28 to June 3. Joe Gallegly, son of Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Gallegly, was elected by faculty members as an outstanding student who ranks high scholastically, possesses degrees in leadership, irreproachable character and one who has given outstanding service to the school.
About 100 homes and other structures were damaged in Corning and surrounding area early Sunday morning and two business structures were also damaged by the windstorm, accompanied by the rain, that struck here about 1:30 a.m.
Miss Patsy Ruth Ballenger, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Ballenger, of Corning, has been selected by the faculty of the Corning High School to be a representatives of the school at the Third Annual Girls State convention.
Volunteer member-workers and laborers are making good progress in the erection of a new structure for the Church of Christ at Fourth and Elm Streets. The 36 by 40 basement has been dug out and preparations for laying the foundation are under way. John Ermert, Joe Ballenger, local merchant, and Marion Dudlay an employee of the Mo-Pac Railway lines here, are leaders in the movement for a new Church of Christ building. The membership of approximately 30, who have been active, were using the Ward Theatre building for a meeting place, and it is stated that more activity in church affairs will result in having their own church, although difficult to build in the present restricted times. Efforts are being made to complete the structure by June.
Several real estate transactions of interest have been made here recently, one of which is the sale of the Letbetter's Court, located at highway junctions 67 and 62, to Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Cochran. The business which was sold Monday by W. M. Letbetter was built by him in 1928 and has not previously changed hands. Additions have been made from time to time since 1928 and now there are 13 rooms in the court, with 22 beds, including the apartment. Miss Elizabeth Morrison sold the building occupied by the Bennett-Sheeks Motor Company located on Highway 62 in east Corning, to P. L. Oliver on Saturday of last week. Miss Morrison purchased the building in 1922 from W. D. Bennett who built it a few years prior to that time at a cost of $16,000.
Properties belonging to the estate of the late J. W. Black have been sold of recent date, including five residential dwellings and two business locations. Mrs. J. W. Baynham purchased the Corning Novelty Company property and buildings located in southwest Corning and the building formerly housing the equipment of the bowling alley manufacturing company, just east of Junctions 67 and 62. Other real estate transactions of Mr. Black's properties were the homes purchased by J. E. Butler, Mack Blackwood, Guy Baynham, O. H. Howell and Adolph Eggers.
C.H.S. graduates, class of 1944: Imogene Smith, Carolyn Frances Belford, Herbert Ahrent, Erabadel Adams, Bertha Boatman, Virgie Ann Moore, Veda Maddox, Paul McFatridge, Charles Ingram, Robert B. Polk, Donald E. Polk, Adren Ridger, Carl Ponds, Zella Mabry, Ruth Hicks Bennett, Rena Jane Choate, Gladys Cates, Louise Davis, Mildred Ahrent, Thelma Creek, Wilma Creek, Loretta Kennedy, Lillian Louise Richardson, Mazie Smith, Stewart Kimball, Joe Nichols, Elizabeth Smart, Ronald Perry Bridges, Charles Ainley, Anita Carter, Janis Clark, Mable Grayson, Altina Lester, Dorothy Hester, Lyden Moore, Junior Garland, Vern DeArmon, J. C. Dearing.
Corning's sleeping sixteen hundred and some residents were awakened at 3:00 a.m. Tuesday morning by the local fire siren, followed by youths driving over the town's streets shouting that the long-awaited for invasion for Hitler-held Europe had begun. Some arose and hurried to their radios.
Definite plans for an annual Corning Civic Club Fourth of July Picnic were completed at a special called meeting of the Corning Young Men's Civic Club, by President Harold H. Hodges, Tuesday evening, at Letbetter's Court. Parade committee: John O'Donoghue and Bryan McCallen; grounds, Leslie Russell, George Jimerson, Chess Gallegly and Jim Oliver; entertainment, S. D. Snow, George Bridges, Gordon Lamb; show and concessions, John Magee, Glenn Kimball, M. Companiotte; Civic Club Sales Stand, Ed Sheeks, Kenneth Pettit, Eulis Cochran, Charles Bowers; workers, John Butler, Fred Cox, L. G. Black; publicity, Buck Estes, Mack Blackwood and John O'Donoghue.
The Supreme Court held in a case from Clay County that lower courts do not have authority to order permanent closing of buildings under the public nuisance statute except in cases where violation of an order enjoining a nuisance. It reversed Clay Circuit Court in a case involving the Black River Camp in Clay County, which had a liquor store, beer parlor and dance hall. The lower court, on February 12, 1942, issued a permanent injunction against operations of these facilities and ordered that all buildings be closed for 12 months. Twelve months from the date of the order the owner, J. F. Futrell, issue a new lease on the place and new proprietor, J. J. Steel, began operations of the dance hall. The sheriff again padlocked the premises and removed Steel's fixtures.
Every old time fiddler in Clay, Randolph, or Ripley County is invited to come to Corning on the Fourth of July and participate in an Old Time Fiddlers Contest to be held at the July 4th Picnic at Corning.
A transaction of interest was made last week when Mr. Jim Blunk purchased the merchandise stock of The Corning Inn last week from Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Allen. Building and fixtures are the property of Lt. Brooks Sheeks.
The Russell Burial Association will open their new funeral home and mortuary in the Ward Theatre building on July 1st. Leslie Russell, local mortician, formerly with Black's Mortuary, will be in charge.
Mr. and Mrs. Lambert Going, who recently purchased the Midway Tourists Cabin, Midway Cafe and Filling Station from Mr. and Mrs. S. M. Garrett, Sr., took over the business Tuesday. W. M. (Bill) Wright will continue to operate the cafe. Donald Baker and Clifford Denton are station attendants.
Robert Wynn, Corning, experienced an accident last Saturday that could have easily been fatal when he rode a Buick coupe into Black River just north of Highway 62 bridge. He had just loaded a boat onto his trailer, intending to move it to a lake for a fishing trip and was attempting to pull up the line on the east side of the river when the brakes on his car failed to hold and the boat, trailer and car were pulled into the river. Freeing himself, he swam about 25 feet to shore and the car rolled to about mid stream, covering the top of the coupe by about four feet of water. Carl Whitledge was with Robert at the river.
Figures as reported by picnic treasurer, O. J. Harold, showed a net profit from the 4th of July picnic to be $1,205.
Cpl. Albert Poynor son of Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Poynor was killed in action in the Southwest Pacific while serving with the US Marines.
David Newton Gage, age 78, one of Corning's pioneer residents, died at his home here Saturday afternoon, July 29. After moving to Corning he took a job as blacksmith for Black and Arnold then later did carpenter work and built several homes in Corning. He was engaged in farming for a time and was in the insurance business for about 30 years. He was administrator for the Jacob Brobst estate.
Local mail carrier Henry W. Smelser retires after 33 years of service. Smelser said that only six of his original patrons are still living. Those whom he delivered mail to the first year, they are: Mrs. H. H. Williams, Mr. and Mrs. Karl Hartwig, Mr. and Mrs. James Ermert, Mrs. Ida Ahrent and Mrs. Snodgrass. He served with six postmasters, namely, C. T. Bloodworth, Dr. A. B. McKinney, C. E. Skinner, George Stanfield, J. H. Magee and present postmaster, W. E. Polk.
About 550 members of the local REA were present at the annual meeting at Barnhill Camp last Wednesday, establishing an all time record in attendance.
E. C. Sprague, former superintendent of the Clayton, Okla., schools, has been elected to be superintendent of Corning School District No. 8.
First Lieutenant James O. Gomer, 23, husband of Mrs. Edna A. Gomer, formerly Edna Allensworth, Corning, was, killed in action August 14, 1944, in the European sector.
The Corning school opened the 1944-45 term Monday with an enrollment of 462. Seniors, 38; 11th, 53; 10th, 53; 9th, 60; 8th, 36; 7th, 34; 6th, 27; 5th, 25; 4th, 32; 2nd, 33; 1st, 45.
A telegram was received Saturday from the War Department stating that SSgt. Norman N. Rapert, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Rapert, Route One, Corning, had died from wounds received in France. His wife, Alma, is the sister of Cpl. Albert Poynor who was killed in action in the battle of Saipan, July 8th.
W. B. Denton, county agent, informs us that the Clay County Rice Growers Association, Knobel, has secured 150 German war prisoners for use in the rice harvest. A tent camp is being set up one-half mile south of Knobel where the prisoners will be housed. They will go out under guard to the farmers in numbers of not less than ten and will be used for shicking and threshing rice.
J. E. Ballenger purchased the See residence and lot from Mrs. Fred Makin, Fort Worth, Texas. The lot had been in the See family for the past 65 years.
C. D. McKay, drug salesman of Cape Girardeau, was freed of responsibility in the death of six-year old Paul Grayson Miller who died immediately after being hit by McKay's automobile Tuesday afternoon at Cypress Creek bridge, one mile north of Corning on Highway 67. Paul Grayson, a primary student in Corning schools, and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Miller, had, a few minutes before the fatal accident occurred, alighted from the school bus with ten other students. 
Let's Vote Liquor Out of Clay County. Who wants liquor kept? The bootlegger, the beer parlors, Every shady character in the community. Who wants liquor outlawed? All churches, every prominent educator, the FBI. Who would you rather line up with, Mr. Voter? U. L. Uggins, Baptist minister and Benjamin C. Few, pastor for Citizens' Committee. 
To the Voters of Clay County-You will vote on Saturday, October 21, to determine whether beer, wine and whiskey will continue to be sold legally in Clay County. Is it fair to hold this election when so many of our men are away from home fighting to save democracy? Will the voting out of legal liquor stop the sale of beer, wine and whiskey in Clay County? Who will benefit by voting dry? The bootlegger and Missouri merchants. Leave it like it is-Clay County Legal Control Committee for the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquor.
Settlement was reached out of court in the damage suit of Stella and C. E. Rice vs. the Missouri Pacific Railway Lines early this week with both parties agreeing on a settlement of $3,500 and all court costs involved in the trial of five cases, by the defendant. The case was tried in Clay County Circuit Court last April and after three hours' deliberation the jury returned a no decision verdict. Judge Zal B. Harrison continued the trial for October term, circuit court which begins Monday, October 30. Mr. and Mrs. Rice asked $12,000 and costs from the railroad after the deaths of their two children, Lester 16 and Mildred 14, who were hit by Train No. 8 at the grade crossing on First Street and Highway 62, March 1941.
Jimmy Dewart Phelan, age 25, died early Tuesday morning at the Corning Hospital from burns received in his home in west Corning, early Monday morning.
J. M. Blunk one of Clay County's oldest citizens, died at his home in east Corning Wednesday night. He came here in the pioneer days from Illinois and was woods foreman and timber man for the Ferguson-Wheeler Mill some 50 years ago, and in later life bought and sold railroad pilings and served as justice of the peace in Kilgore Township.
Three new buildings are being erected here, which will add largely to the business section of Corning. The first to begin construction was the Woods' Equipment Company owned by O. L. Woods, which is nearing completion on Highway 67 one-half mile west of Corning. Bennett-Sheeks Motor Company is erecting a modern white-faced brick building. The local button factory, owned by N. Steinberg, is being completely rebuilt and will be one of the most modern button factories in Arkansas when completed, housing 24 button cutting machines, giving steady employment to about 28 men.
E. W. Cochran, Lance Ferguson and Leslie Russell received the Royal Arch degree of the Masonic Lodge in Kennett, two weeks ago.
Corning Young Men's Civic Club, in a regular session at the high school home economics cottage, Monday evening, elected Ed V. Sheeks, president; Bryan McCallen, vice president; and Kenneth Pettit, secretary-treasurer.
Mr. and Mrs. Joe T. Wilson, Corning, Route One, received a message December 11 notifying them that their son, Cpl. John Diggs Wilson, age 22, had been killed in action on November 30. He was serving as an artillery gunner with the Third Army, near Metz, when he died. His father was among the first to be called in World War I and was with the 79th Division antiaircraft for six months in France.
Lieut. Paul Snowden, 32, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Snowden of Success arrived Tuesday night on 30-day leave from Washington, DC, where he had been a patient in a government hospital for the past few weeks recuperating from the effects of 27 months spent in Japanese Prison Camp No. 2 in the Philippines.

1945
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Holcomb of Blue community received a telegram on December 16, informing them that their son, Pfc Colton C. Holcomb, 19, was wounded in action in Germany on November 13, while fighting with the First Army. December 27 they received another telegram stating that he died in Belgium on December 7. Monday, a third message was received, informing Mr. and Mrs. Holcomb that their other son, Otis O. Holcomb, was seriously wounded in action in Italy on December 7.
Mrs. Loyd Leonard, Corning, received a telegram Thursday, January 11, informing her that her husband, S1-c [Seaman First Class] Loyd William Leonard, 23, was killed in action in the Pacific theatre. He is known to have participated in the invasion of Leyte in the Philippines. He was the son of Mrs. Herbert Smith.
Mrs. Alfreda Sicurella, the former Alfreda Mizell, received a message from the War Department last Sunday stating that her husband, Pfc Chas. J. Sicurella, was killed in action in Belgium on December 16.
Ila Fay Brickley, age three months, and her brother, Donald English, age 15 months, were burned to death about 1:30 p.m. Monday when the two-room house in which they lived with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Brickley and four other children, burned to the ground on the Greenwood farm, one-fourth mile northwest of Moark.
Bernie Beard, 44, better known around Corning as Barney Beard, was found dead in bed in a one-room shack in which he lived alone about two miles east of Murphy Lake early last Thursday morning.
Hallie Collins, 65, second-hand clothing merchant on Second Street, was hit by a Ford sedan driven by Private Howard Russell, Saturday night, and suffered a fractured ankle and one rib broken. The accident happened in front of his store, one door north of Dr. M. C. Richardson's office.
William Edward Galemore, Technician 5th grade, 22, was killed December 30, according to a second message received Tuesday by his wife, Mrs. Myrtle Galemore. He was previously reported missing in action on December 22.
After over four years service on the Clay County Selective Service Board, L. G. Black has resigned as one of the three board members, effective last Friday, January 26.
Brown Out, a wartime measure to save coal and other fuel becomes effective February 1st. 
Private Mallard F. Jones, 22, formerly of Corning is reported killed in action, January 15, on Leyte Island in the Philippines. He is the son of Mrs. M. A. Jackson. 
Sgt. Eugene Cottle was killed in action January 12 in Belgium.
S-Sgt. Virgil W. York, 22, former Corning resident, was reported killed in action January 23 in Belgium.
The Corning school band celebrated its first birthday with a banquet, Thursday, March 1. Present were the members of the band numbering about 45, band director O'Donoghue, Miss Mildred Horton, Miss Earlene Beasley and Supt. E. C. Sprague.
A real estate transaction, which changed the ownership of Cochran's Tourist Court and filling station was made last Saturday with Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Hughes as the new owners. E. W. Cochran was the former owner, having purchased the property from W. M. Letbetter last year.
A. L. Drilling, proprietor of the Franklin 5 and 10 store, purchased the general merchandise stock of the John Ermert Store last week. The light hardware stock has since been purchased by the Blackwood-Adams Store.
Herbert S. Johnson was appointed as deputy circuit court clerk for the Western District of Clay County and took office Monday, April 2. The new appointment follows the resignation of George Bridges, who since has accepted the management of the Wood's Equipment Company here.
Pfc Avery Harpole, 27, died on Luzon Island in the Philippines March 18.
Pfc Erwin W. Martin was killed in action while fighting with the 5th division, 27 marines, on Iwo Jima, in the Southwest Pacific Theatre, March 15.
The senior class of Corning High School has chosen the play, "A Little Honey." This play will be given in the high school auditorium on May 4th. The cast: Hannah Oliver, Junior Snodgrass, Marylea Vines, Betty Jane Drilling, Sally Hardesty, Lowell Poyner, Oliver Cox, Emma Leslie Esmon, Pat Few, Evelyn Roberts, Kathleen Wynn and Jimmy Snider.
Black River flood waters early Thursday morning registered 13.8 feet on the government gauge at the highway bridge two miles East of Corning. State highway foreman for this district, C. M. Vines, closed highway No. 1 below Knobel 'Y' Wednesday afternoon. Highway 62 to Piggott was under water at Cache ditch East of McDougal, but still passable.
Sgt. Joseph G. Herren, son of Mr. and Mrs. Soula Herren, Route One, has been listed as killed, instead of missing in action, according to a message from the War Department.
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was laid to rest in the quiet rose garden of the Roosevelt homestead at Hyde Park, N. Y., Sunday, April 15, three days after his sudden death at Warm Springs, Georgia. President Truman to carry on with Roosevelt's policies.
E. W. Cochran recently purchased the Ben Franklin Store in Festus, Mo., and will take possession at a formal opening of the store under his management on May 7.
It is estimated that about one-third of Clay County is now under water, in what is said to be the worst flood condition in many years from a standpoint of time. Black River has been out of its banks. The gauge at Highway 62 bridge East of Corning registered 15.3 Thursday which is six feet, three inches above flood stage. Many homes in the Tipperary vicinity have been in water since December.
Pfc Presley H. Edwards, 28, son of J. A. Edwards, was killed in action on Luzon Island in the Philippines, March 17.
Bedford C. England has been appointed by Sheriff Bill Bookout as deputy sheriff for the Western District of Clay County. He replaces Glenn Kimball who is now a member of the state police force.
Dr. John W. Bruce, age 53, former Corning physician, died Monday afternoon at the Newport Hospital.
Candidates for graduation from high school are: Geraldine Williams, Juanita Miller, Wilma Coonce, Maxine Brown, Mary Frances Ford, Sarah Ellen Hardesty, Geraldine Sutton, Cleo Culver, Margaret Ruth Few, Veda E. Headley, Margaret Ruth McClure, Wanda Wooldridge, Clara Bauschlicher, Betty Jane Drilling, Kathleen Wynn, Marylea Vines, Velma Lee Asher, Christine Jackson, Hannah Sue Oliver, Adena Ridger, Evelyn Carol Roberts, Jo Fernimen, Dorothy Garrett, Imogene Johnson, Alyce Rowe Edwards, Helen Rogers, Emma Leslie Esmon, Rosalie Schirmer, Lowell Poyner, Jimmy U. Arnold, Oliver E. Cox, Dewey James Snider, Floyd E. Chappell, Richard Carroll Polk, Harry E. Snodgrass, Jr., L. H. Mizell (OBC [Ouachita Baptist College], Arkadelphia), Tommy Beaumont Grayson, US Navy, Billy E. Sorrells, US Navy overseas, James Richard Rogers, US Army overseas, Jackson Headley, US Army overseas.
The Day brick building in Datto has been purchased by H. Goode and work will begin Monday wrecking the structure, salvaging the brick and plate glass for the erection of a modern brick building on the corner of Main and West First.
Twelve lots were recently sold between Third and Fourth streets just north of Hazel Street in Corning and will be the location of several new homes as soon as war time restrictions are lifted. One residential building has already been started, to be owned and occupied by the W. R. Waldon family. Across Fourth Street west, which has been marked off to run one block north of Hazel street, Tom Puckett has bought seven lots which will be used as residence lots. The property was purchased from C. R. Black, Sr. City water will be made available to the new home owners.
Sgt. Ralph M. (Snooks) Crafton, who had been a prisoner of the German government since his capture in North Africa, Feb. 20, 1943, is alive and in good health, waiting transportation home. The news was received by his sister, Mrs. R. W. Mulhollen, early this week, when she received a letter from her husband, Bill Mulhollen, who had also been a captive of the Germans and was released May 2, in Germany by the Russian Army. Sgt. Mulhollen wrote that after he was released from prison, he traced his brother-in-law and found him in Le Havre, France, May 21, also waiting transportation to the States.
Lemuel Harrison Mizell, age 17, drowned while swimming in the Ouachita River at Arkadelphia, Wednesday afternoon. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Mizell of Corning and he was a 1945 mid-term graduate of Corning High School and was taking a special course at Ouachita, preparatory to entering the service in August.
Mrs. Pansy Gross of Piggott is now chief operator at the local Southwestern States Telephone Company office, following the resignation of Mrs. Virginia Blair of Cabot, on May 25.
A community observance of Memorial Day was conducted by the Bishop L. Gage Post No. 67, the American Legion, on Wednesday afternoon. The Legion was assisted by the C.H.S. Band. The parade formed on Pine Street for the march to the cemetery. Servicemen here on furlough and leaves who participated in the services were Melvin Wright, Freddie M. Brown, Harold Allensworth, Arlie E. Smith, Wm. H. Eaton, Billy Joe Sprague, Andy Sorrels and Gene Smith.
Double funeral services were held last Saturday at Red Top Hill near Lafe for William Doyle Dollins, age 11, and Nelba Annis Dollins, eight, who drowned in flood waters near Black River last Wednesday morning.
R. O. Smith recently bought the two-front brick building, occupied by the Sunshine Cafe and Arcade Recreation Parlor, from J. F. Arnold. The Sunshine Cafe moved Wednesday to the building formerly occupied by the Franklin Store. Smith will install a one-lane regulation ten pin and three five pin bowling alleys in the room as soon as it is completely decorated. Smith Wholesale Supply Company will occupy the stone front South of the OPA office, now occupied by the Young Bowling Alleys.
Plans for Corning's second annual 4th of July picnic celebration are proceeding smoothly. Actual construction of the stands on the picnic ground at the Wynn Park west of Corning on Highway 67 will commence Monday. A parade will again herald the commencement of the picnic. The parade is under supervision of John O'Donoghue.
In a report made by E. V. Sheeks, chairman of the YMCC Waterworks Commission, at the Monday night meeting, he stated that the new 300 gallon an hour capacity Cook turbine pump will arrive Sunday. Installation will begin next week. Purchase of the new pump which will be installed in the 60 foot well in south Corning was recommended by the Civic Club, as a means of meeting the State Fire Commissioner's requirements to lower fire insurance rates here. J. F. Arnold stated Wednesday that the present water supply is being furnished by two of the five shallow wells with the remaining three wells kept in good condition ready for immediate use.
Sgt. Cloyce Stacy who was captured by the German government November 28, 1944, has returned to his home in Thorn Grove near Knobel.
James Ellis Smith, Boilermaker First Class, was killed in action April 1, 1945 and was buried on Zomomi, Ryukyus, on April 11, 1945.
A telegram was received July 9 by Mrs. Mary Hancock High of Knobel stating that her husband, Pfc Vernon High, was killed on Okinawa on June 15.
Missouri State Patrolman John N. Greim and Claude Hayes, Campbell [Missouri] automobile dealer, were killed when Hayes' two seated, dual controlled Raynairplane [Ryan airplane] crashed into a ditch on US Highway 62, four miles east of Corning last Friday morning.
Corning Summer High School has completed nine weeks of a ten weeks term and will close August 11th. The school is under the supervision of Tommy Tulles and has the following students enrolled in American History and English III; James Huggins, C. R. Lewis, Vaunita Poynor, Margaret Danner, Lilly Pillow, Betty Dearing, Helen Wynn, Frances Smalley and Velma Joyce Hagerman.
Atomic bomb killed so many Japs they can't count them. New developments may bring quick end to war with Japan. Russia declares war on Japan, fighting began Wednesday.
Corning joined the nation in celebrating the victory over Japan, Tuesday, with a din of automobile horns, shouting, firing of firearms and the sounding of the fire siren at several intervals. It seems as though everyone had been sitting beside their radio when President Truman gave the official announcement at six o'clock. The Corning band joined the celebration about dusk. Although rained out, they played from the school bus. 
A Victory Service with all churches participating was held at the Methodist church Wednesday morning with Rev. L. C. Tedford, local Baptist pastor, as speaker. Stores were closed Wednesday in observance of the victory.
Japan surrenders; General MacArthur named Supreme Allied Commander.
Gasoline rationing ended Wednesday. So did the rationing of fuel oil, oil stoves and all blue point foods; but rationing of meats, fats and oils, butter, sugar, shoes and tires will continue until lowered military requirements and increased production bring civilian supplies more nearly in balance with civilian demands.
The first annual picnic of the Clay County Farm Bureau members and their families, held in Wynn Park last week, was acclaimed a big success by Fred Ahrent, Farm Bureau president.
Bishop L. Gage Post No. 67, the American Legion, met in regular session at the vocational building, Monday night. The following officers were elected: commander, E. C. Sprague; adjutant, W. L. Oliver; first vice commander, Bill Berry; second vice commander, Joe Wilson; third vice commander, P. H. Rice; finance officer, T. H. Rhea; sergeant at arms, Fil Turner; service officer, Ralph Cochran; chaplain, J. M. Oliver, Jr.
Football! Yes, football is coming back to Corning High School. Under the coaching of C. E. (Stormy) Lynch, the old pigskin is being pushed around, and head bumping and shin skinning are the spirited pastimes for the boys who have time around the campus of Corning High again.
The War Department early this week notified Mrs. Elsie Cockrum, Little Rock, that her husband, Lt. William Lucas Cockrum, age 34, died of colitis on February 16 on Honshu Island, Japan. Lt. Cockrum, who survived the death march, was on the west end of the peninsula of Bataan and was with the last troops to be taken prisoner. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Monroe Cockrum. 
Corning Central Schools opened September 10 with an increase in enrollment over the first week of last year. The enrollment in grades 7-12 reached 310 and grades 1-6 passed the mark 262, making the total for the first week of 572 enrolled.
The American Red Cross, early this week, notified Mr. and Mrs. Tom L. Stacy, Route One, Corning, that their son, James Clifford Stacy, 25, had been liberated from a Japanese prison.
War Time officially ends Sunday, September 30, when clocks over the nation will be set back one hour at 2:00 a.m.
L. A. Scrivner purchased two lots on West Second Street, which he now occupies with his motor sales, from Mrs. Mary Agnes Staley.
Corning YMCC to sponsor Western Clay County [Community] Chest Fund Drive.
After 30 years continuous service in the cleaning and pressing business in Corning, Sam and Nell Hall have sold out to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Linder of St. Louis. The Halls have operated in the same location for 26 consecutive years without missing a single weekday's work.
M. B. Ainley has started construction of a 45x70 concrete block building on the southwest corner of Main and Second St. He plans to move his grocery and market to the new building as soon as it is completed.
Corning is in line for a new post office building, according to an announcement made in Washington this week.
New autos soon to go on sale, will not be rationed, the government has announced.
The sudden death Saturday, October 27, of Miss Mary Agnes Staley, known to her friends as Miss Tip Staley, terminates a life span that stretched across 80 years and in her passing blots out a family name that has been a byword in Corning for 64 years. Miss Tip's father, Dr. J. C. Staley, came to Corning in 1881 to establish a drug store and rear his six children. When the elder Staley died in 1899, Tom Staley took over the store which had by that time become a tradition in this community. When Tom died in 1925, Staley's Drug Store passed to other hands.
Armistice Day will be celebrated in Corning, Saturday, November 10, starting with a parade which will form at the courthouse and march to the business section at 2:15 p.m. The parade and program will be sponsored by the local Legion Post and Legion Auxiliary.
Forty members and guests were present at the YMCC dinner held at this home economics cottage, Monday night. The principal topic of discussion was planning for a community building. Superintendent of Schools E. C. Sprague led the discussion and said that Corning's civic pride should see to it that such a building be provided.
Dr. James Schollenberger, recently discharged front the Army Dental Corps., was in Corning Wednesday and stated that he will open a dental office in the State Theatre building about the middle of December.
Joe T. Wilson, Corning Route One farmer, has won the state championship in the Plant to Prosper contest for 1945 in Arkansas, sponsored by the Memphis Commercial Appeal.
T. G. Bridges sells interest in Crystal Drug Store to Loren Garland.
Pvt. Ellis Ward, 23, son of Mrs. Carrie Rider, Route One, Corning, was killed by Jap sniper fire on Guam Island, Saturday afternoon, December 8.
The Corning YMCC held election of officers for the ensuing year at its annual Christmas dinner meeting Monday night at the home economics cottage. Arvel Hicks was elected president; Ed V. Sheeks, vice president and Winfred Polk, secretary. Elected as board of directors were: Gene Barber, J. M. Oliver, Jr., Kenneth Pettit and G. A. Lamb. Retiring officers for the past year were: Kenneth Pettit, president; Bryan McCallen, vice president and Leon Chambers; secretary.

1946
Sam Hall, of a pioneer Corning family, died at the Hall home on Third Street midweek. The Hall brothers, Sam and Ed, operated their barbershop on First and later on Second Street for many years. A sister, Miss Nell, was Sam's business partner when the shop closed and Sam entered the cleaning and pressing business and ordered tailor-made suits from Ed V. Price of Chicago for his clients. The funeral was conducted in the home by Rev. J. F. McDonald, pastor of the First Methodist Church. Burial in the Hall plot in the Corning Cemetery. The deepest sympathy of The Courier and Corning is extended to Miss Nell, who was a gifted violinist, the brothers played cornet and drums and the trio were the nucleus of many early orchestras. The brothers were also members of bands formed in Corning from the turn of the 20th century.
The 4th of July picnic in Wynn Park was the best since the celebration was resurrected in the early 40's. The weather was perfect and the huge crowd packed the grounds from 10 a.m. until the fireworks display at 10 p.m. Receipts from the stands have soared to a new high. The usual perfect conduct and the pleasure was not marred by fighting or brawling on the grounds. The parade at 10 a.m. was directed by J. M. Oliver, Jr., and excelled any parade ever presented by the town. An outstanding feature was the gigantic flag of the USA that was carried in a horizontal position by the Boy Scouts. The Corning High School Band, in their new uniforms of black and gold, directed by Bandmaster O'Donoghue, marched in good formation and furnished well rendered patriotic music. Corning citizens are working together as never before on the annual picnic and the editor prophesies that July 4th will be the Red Letter Day in Corning for years to come.
The C.H.S. Bobcats ended the football season with a perfect winning record. Most of the opponents including Piggott, wound up with goose eggs. The team, under the coaching of "Stormy" Lynch, has benefited from former students who have answered the call to arms and have returned to graduate including Butch Moore, Adrian Rider, Burley Cox, Red Higginbotham, Preston Walker, James White, Thomas Phelan, Jimmy Oliver, Calvin Spense, Marley Baker, Bill Chappell, Marshall Young, Ralph Shelton, Jr., and Fuzz Shelton, Gene Magee.
Joe Cox, popular station agent for the Mo-Pac was guest at a surprise birthday party at the Oliver home on First Street. Joe's age is given at 45 years, affidavit made and sworn to by a local N.P. [notary public]
The first snow of the season fell on Corning the night of January 21st. The January thaw arrived two days later, nothing on hand now except mud.
Glenn Kimball has bought the cotton gin at St. Francis and will be moving to that Eastern District town by summer.
The railroad strikes have interrupted train service from St. Louis to Texas over the Mo-Pac. Passenger service is limited to No. 3 and No. 4 for the duration.
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Reed have returned to Corning from Texas where Mr. Reed has been employed by the National Cash Register Corp. Mr. Reed will be associated here with the P. L. Oliver Cotton Gin Co., on East Elm.
Bolling cotton began in January and has continued until the last of April due to the many rainfalls since the picking season began in the fall of 1945. We are praying for a dry planting season in May.
Prayers for dry weather went down the drain in May with a record of 14 and one-half inches of rain in 17 days. The thermometer ran below normal with the usual result, replanting on most of the cotton acres. Cotton seed is being brought in by express and June cotton needs a late killing frost. The line up for late frost is on the right.
The death of Mrs. G. B. Oliver at Bradenton, Fla. was reported on the last day of the year. Mrs. Oliver arrived in Corning with the Harb family in 1876 when she was ten years of age. She enrolled in the public school when public education was begun in 1877. Her teacher in 1884 was a young man from Pennsylvania and she became his bride in 1886. A charter member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, when it was organized, and she had continued a faithful attendance at the services until ill health forced her to remove to Bradenton to live with her daughter, Mrs. Curtis Black. Funeral services were conducted at the church January 3, and interment was in the Oliver plot where she was laid to rest beside her husband who died in 1935. She is survived by her daughters, Maude Black of Bradenton, Sarah Black of Corning and Miss Jane of Bradenton. Two sons, Atty. Goldsmith B. Oliver, Jr., of Little Rock and Wm. L. Oliver of Sikeston, and several grandchildren.
At nuptials performed at 12 o'clock noon Tuesday, June 18, at the Corning Methodist Church, Miss Regina Rhea daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Rhea, became the bride of H. J. Pillow, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Pillow.
Miss Paula Laurena Oliver, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Luther Oliver of Corning, became the bride of John Oliver Black, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lanie George Black, also of Corning, Friday evening, June 14, at the Corning Methodist Church with the Rev. H. Frank McDonald officiating.
Fibber and Mollie are at present the drawing card on radio.
Joe Gallegly presented an organ recital at the First Methodist Church Sunday evening to a large, appreciative congregation.
Charles R. Black, Maurice Companiotte, John Magee, Sam Arnold and P. L. Oliver attended a Republican rally at Piggott midweek.. P. L. Oliver nominated for representative and W. W. Henry for county judge on the GOP ticket.
The Corning Bobcats played the Piggott Mohawks on Armistice Day and swamped the Eastern District 11 by a score of 26 to 0. Eat your hearts out, Piggott!
The thermometer plunged to 30 degrees on the 12th of November and Jack Frost paid his first killing visit.
1947
The newly elected county officials took their respective offices Wednesday, January 1, and since then there has been no official announcements made concerning all appointments. In the sheriff and collector's office, B. O. Dalton replaces Bill Bookout. For his deputies Sheriff Dalton has appointed Chief of Police D. A. Snider as special deputy until his appointment is made. Fred J. Cox is deputy collector. In the county judge's office, Attorney T. A. French took the oath for the next two years, taking over the duties of the retiring County Judge John Terry. A. B. Wheeler will have the responsibility of the county treasurer's office for two years. Fred J. Cox has been re-appointed as deputy in our district. In the county clerk's office R. E. Shannon is a new face in this office. As deputy for this district, Mrs. Dade O. Cox has been re-appointed. In the circuit clerk's office, W. M. Woodard will continue in office for a second term. Denzil C. Wright, returned veteran, will continue a deputy in the Corning courthouse. In the tax assessor's office W. F. (Uncle Willie) Woodard, another second termer, will be assisted in this district by Deputy Assessor Mrs. Mable Kimball.
The collection drive for the $3 DDT house spraying fee will close on January 31, in accordance with an official notification from the State Health Department. H. M. Robinson is supervisor of the malaria control work in Clay County.
Plans for the installation of a new "white way" lighting system in the business district and improvement of residential street lighting as a public service of Arkansas-Missouri Power Company, has been announced by Mayor Wm. L. Oliver.
Mr. and Mrs. O. L. Woods and son Kip, announce the grand opening of their newly remodeled store in this issue of The Courier.
The four-room frame dwelling house owned and occupied by Mrs. Janie Thompson, located at north Fourth and Hazel Street, was completely destroyed by fire last Saturday afternoon.
After three years serving the public as owners and operators of the Sunshine Cafe, Ted Lowe, sold out Tuesday to Bill Ballard.
The Knobel Milling Company is now owned by Orville T. Watson, former co-owner. Watson purchased the half interest formerly owned by Lora Wilkerson, Monday.
Street and Alley Commissioner J. E. Ballenger stated Tuesday that the city officials were definitely preparing to repair all blacktop streets in Corning.
The Agriculture Department Wednesday discounted talk of $1-a-pound pork chops with an assertion that housewives won't stand for it.
Superintendent E. C. Sprague, who has headed Corning Central Schools for the past three years, this week tendered his resignation to the school board.
Riley's ladies ready-to-wear shop here was last week sold to Mrs. Arvel Hicks.
Attendants at Corning Hospital said that about 90 cases of influenza were being given medical aid, Wednesday.
Ralph Lipscomb, who recently assumed the management of the local Ark-Mo office, and Mrs. Lipscomb and three children have moved to Letbetter's Tourist Court temporarily, waiting for a vacancy in a house here.
D. A. Snider, local police chief, came near losing his left eye Monday in a freak accident. He was playing a game of pool during the noon hour with Otis Taylor, one of the proprietors of Taylor's Pool Room, when a billiard ball bounced from the table. The ball struck a cue stick which was leaning against the wall, just as Snider stooped to retrieve it. The tip of the stick struck his left eye socket, forcing out the eyeball. The stick broke, leaving the tip end in the eye socket, which was removed and the eyeball placed back in the socket by the officer. He received surgical treatment at Corning Hospital.
G. A. Lamb and L. G. Black, members of the Board of Education, School District No. 8, informed The Courier Monday that the Corning grade schools will be enlarged during the coming summer vacation months. Plans include construction of six additional rooms adjoining the present six rooms on the south, with a central entrance similar to the one in the high school building. Construction costs which are estimated at between $25,000 and $30,000 are to be met by a loan from the revolving school fund, made available by the voting of a two mill tax at the recent local school election in which Black was elected as director of the local board for the ensuing five years, by a majority of 76 votes.
Joe Thaxton and Robert Barnhill, both juniors at C.H.S., were elected by the faculty members to represent Corning at Boys' State in Little Rock the first week in June.
The Lions Club held its first organized meeting Tuesday at 7:30 with dinner served at the Sunshine Cafe. Lion President G. A. Lamb presided and announced the appointment of C. R. Black, Sr., as authority on constitution and by-laws.
Saturday, May 24th, will be observed as Poppy Day in Corning and surrounding communities. Those who have been recommended by faculty members of Corning High School to sell Poppies are: Willodean Leach, Peggy Blaylock, Joan Smith, Sue Johnston, Rebecca Sheeks, Dorothy Day, Sue Stephens, Glenna Johnson and Zelith Snodgrass.
Memorial Day will be observed here Friday, May 30, with the Corning American Legion and Corning Veterans of Foreign Wars as sponsors of the program. Dinner will be served picnic style on the school grounds at 12 noon. A speaker from the army has been engaged to give the Memorial Day address, following a band concert by the Corning Band. After the speaking, the Legionnaires and VFW's will march to the Corning Cemetery where ex-service men's graves will be decorated and the salute fired, honoring the dead who served their country.
Work of some DDT spray crews is being slowed down by finding homes unprepared for the job. 1,900 houses have been sprayed in Clay County since the program began March 10, 1947.
Down with prices. Due to the cooperation of all the merchants and our many customers, we are able to reduce the price of our fine loaf of Polk's Bread back to the old price, 16 ounce, or over, loaf for 12 cents. Same high quality. Baked fresh every night. Delivered fresh to your local grocer each morning at Corning, Reyno, Datto, Success, Biggers. If it's Polk's it's good.
The mobile x-ray unit of the Division of Tuberculosis Control, State Board of Health and the Clay County Tuberculosis Association will conduct a countywide chest and x-ray survey in Rector, Tuesday and Wednesday and Corning on Thursday.
Local Rural Electrification Administration employees and their families sponsored a party at Barnhill Camp last Friday night honoring their manager, James Rhodes.
It is beginning to look as if Corning may become a freight terminal with two Missouri Pacific Lines eight-ton trailer trucks now tying up here.
About 30 members were present at the regular Tuesday night meeting of the Lions Club. New members present and introduced were A. C. (Kip) Woods, Winfred Polk, Marshall Young and Ted Low.
County Clerk Roderick Shannon said, after an investigation in regard to a couple applying for license, the wedding was on him. The reason was that the man's first wife died a few weeks ago and left 16 children, and the girl who was to marry him had three children of her own. Mr. Shannon thought the man was entitled to a free wedding.
Harold Tedford, son of Rev. and Mrs. L. C. Tedford, has written a three-act play on the family name of Weids, called "How Green Are the Weids." Two showings were given Thursday in the Tedford garage to a full house of interested neighborhood children and mothers. Admission was five and ten cents. The cast: Harold Tedford, Ruth Ann Magee, Madolyn Blackwood, Sharon Benish, Sandra Bowers, Harriet Lamb, Marcella Blackwood, Stanley Graber, Carol Thomas, James Harold Rhodes. 
Pfc William Ray Mabrey, age 19, of Knobel was killed in Tsingtao, China, May 11th.
Laura Richmond, her son, Dan Richmond, and Estel Bland, charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Sam Peoples, were fully exonerated by a circuit court jury early Tuesday afternoon following a joint trial which commenced Monday noon.
Several local residents were thrown into a state of confusion at the early hour of about 5:30 Monday by their telephones literally ringing off the walls and by wild rushes to the business section of town to investigate reported robberies, emergency meets, etcetera. One of the first to be awakened from a state of peaceful slumber was our local garage man, J. B. Belford, who rushed to his garage on Second and Main to observe what was reported to be left of his business, expecting to find it in wreck and ruin. Next was the local Ford dealer, Ed V. Sheeks, then Peoples Gin Company's Earl Day, G. A. Lamb of the Bank, Postmaster Earl Polk, insurance man Kenneth Pettit, Jim Blunk of the Corning Inn and R. C. Carter, railroad clerk. After each responded to the emergency call and found that they had been victims of an April Fool joke, they began to look the situation over and soon found the answer, parked in a car near the scenes one smiling Fred J. Cox, Corning's number one April Fool prankster. Later in the morning Deputy Sheriff D. A. Snider appeared at Deputy Cox's office at the courthouse, armed with a bench warrant for his "arrest". Deputy Snider, after reading the arrest warrant, handcuffed the "culprit" and marched him to Mayor Bill Oliver's city court. The charge - disturbing the peace (slumber) of local late sleepers. Trial was set for just after the noon hour Monday and each complainant testified as to how they had been so unjustly disturbed and caused to lose a couple hours of much needed shut eye. The court handed down the verdict of guilty after deliberating only a minute or two and set offender Cox's "fine" at $100 on each charge, or a total of $600, with a provision - the provision was that if the culprit would buy sodas for everyone in the court, the court would waive the fine and allow him to serve it out in jail, whereupon Cox threatened to make bond and appeal the sentence until he heard the final verdict "five minutes in jail."
A Recordax check photographing machine has been installed at the Corning Bank which will eliminate many hours of tedious book work each week. Every check is now photographed at the bank.
The Corning School Board, at a called meeting Saturday, elected O. E. Barber of Jonesboro to be Superintendent of Corning Schools for the 1947-48 school term.
18 trains and buses now operated through Corning daily by Missouri Pacific Lines.
Don and Dan Harold, owners of the Harold Brothers Allis-Chalmers Farm Implement Agency here, have moved their stock into their new 50 by 90 foot building located on a five acre tract of land near the city limits on US 67 North.
Miss Robin Byers has reopened the Corning Floral Shop, one door south of Scrivner Motor Sales.
A Lions Club was organized here Tuesday night with approximately 40 local businessmen accepted for membership. Officers elected for the local chapter were: President, G. A. Lamb; first vice president, N. N. Steinberg; second vice president, L. F. Cochran; third vice president, Gordon Lee Hutchins; secretary, Kenneth W. Pettit; tail twister, R. J. Selig, Jr. and lion tamer, Harry Stephens.
Over 200 members and visitors attended the 60th anniversary services at the Corning First Baptist Church, with 189 in attendance at Sunday School. The anniversary sermon was delivered by the Rev. Golden E. Neely, former pastor of the church. Dinner was served to over 200 persons.
Forty-four to graduate from C.H.S. on May 15th: Johnny H. Atkison, Marley A. Baker, Eugene Bauschlicher, Donna Woods Bennett, Erma Dean Buffington, William F. Chappell, Ruby Culver, Dorothy Earline Day, Wilma Jean Easterwood, Wilma Fern Eaton, Millison Margene Grayson, Hattie Eulala Gross, Harold E. Helms, Beverly Jean Henderson, Donald Jackson, Gerald Jackson, Donald Ray James, Imogene Kamerman, Louise Kamerman, Floy Jean Kinney, Dorothy Faye Lewis, Lewis Dale Lock, Virginia Miller, Robert A. Owens, Jr., Almeda, Park, Thomas E. Phelan, Francis Ann Rice, Wanda Lee Rice, Margaret Danner Shaver, Eddie Sheeks, Audrey Simpson, Elmer Smith, James Linden Smith, Calvin C. Spence, Martha Hartwig Spence, Barbara Lee Stephens, Thomas Lee Tedford, James A. Vinson, Herman Walker, Tommie Sue Ward, Johnny Mack Ward, Nona Colleen West, James White, Marshall Young.
Mrs. Mary L. Oliver, prominent pioneer and retired business woman of Corning, died at her home here November 27 at the age of 83. Mrs. Oliver was born January 27, 1864, the daughter of Catherine Ogan Watts and M. L. Watts in Chauncy, Ill. The family moved to northeast Arkansas in the early 80's. In 1884 she married C. H. Crabtree who died two years later. In 1884 the present firm of Oliver and Company was founded by the deceased, her husband and her father. In 1886 she married Dr. J. M. Oliver. After a few years, about 1891, Dr. Oliver gave up his medical practice and was associated with Mrs. Oliver in the store business, until his death in 1935. Mrs. Oliver retired from business in the early 40's after 56 years of activity in the same location.
J. T. Montgomery, age 60, Walnut Grove farmer and his two daughters, Lois Janette, age seven, and Delta Jean, age 12, were killed about 5:20 Saturday evening when the 1937 Plymouth sedan in which they were returning home from Corning, crashed into a heavy truck tractor, said by State Police to be owned by Harold Brothers, local implement dealers. The accident occurred about one and one-half miles south of the Corning 'Y' on Highway No. 1.
Fire said to have been caused by the explosion of a coal burning furnace, resulted in considerable loss at the Missouri Pacific express room early Wednesday morning.
The local Army store, operated by Mr. and Mrs. John L. Moore, has expanded its business, taking in the entire brick building owned by Mrs. Ethel Skinner, located at Hop Alley and West First Street. The north half of the building until Monday was occupied by Jim's Cash Store.

1948
A business transfer effected during the past holiday week, transferred full ownership of the Southern Auto Store in the H. Goode building on northwest First Street to Thomas George, World War II combat veteran. 
The First Baptist Church of Corning was a complete loss by fire shortly after noon Wednesday. Fire was said to have been started by lightning which struck at the top of the roof about the center of the building. All contents, including the records and history of both the church and the Current River Baptist Association, were consumed in the flames. Estimated replacement value of the building and equipment was said to be in excess of $50,000. The Baptist Church was built in 1939 and was one of the finest and best equipped in this area.
Following a custom of many years, five sons of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Steinberg, pioneer former Corning merchants, enjoyed a happy reunion here at the home of their aunt, Miss Amelia Hammerslaugh, during the recent holidays. Present for the enjoyable occasion were, Sol of Paragould, who engages in the cotton business at Cardwell; Jake a merchant at Cardwell who is also mayor there; Harry, prominent El Dorado attorney; Simon who conducts a wholesale business at Hayti; and Nathan, owner of the local pearl button manufacturing plant.
C. D. Anderson, retired farmer, stockman and merchant, died Tuesday night after a critical illness of about ten days. He was affectionately known as "Uncle Fud" to his many friends and admirers. He was born at Cotton Plant and after receiving his education at LaCross Academy and Arkansas College at Batesville, was married to Miss Marina Hawks in 1888, who preceded him in death 45 years ago. Coming to Corning in 1902, Anderson acquired farm land and engaged in cattle raising and farming. He became prominent in local and county politics and served as Mayor of Corning, held office as Recorder for this district and for a number of years served on the Equalization Board of the county as well as a member of our school board. For the past ten years he was secretary-treasurer of the local Methodist Sunday School.
R. M. Miller, former Pocahontas peace officer, has been added to the local police force.
A lengthy discussion about a much needed civic improvement, namely a building to house our fire truck and equipment and a paid 24-hour attendant to see that all equipment is in good condition and in its appointed place with attendant on hand in case of fire, was the principal interest at the Lions Club meeting Tuesday night. G. A. Jimerson, member of the Water and Sewer District Commission reported that a contract had been signed with the Layne-Ark Co., deep-well drillers of Stuttgart, to install a new pump at the water tank on north Second Street. The new pump will have a capacity of from 750 to 1,000 gallons per minute. 
Corning experienced another major fire loss early Monday morning when the A. G. Nance frame building on North First Street was completely destroyed. Total real estate and personal property damage was estimated by the owners at approximately $25,000. The three business houses which went up in the flames were the W. F. McCauley and Son Grocery and Market, The Dortch Barbershop and Bloom's Cafe. The fire Monday is the fourth to have occurred in Corning since December 31, with total losses estimated at over $80,000.
Mr. and Mrs. U. E. Riley and Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Nance on Monday morning took over the ownership and management of the Ainley and Sons Grocery and Market. They purchased the stock and fixtures from the Ainleys. The building remains the property of the Ainleys. 
One of the most damaging wrecks ever to occur in the history of the Missouri Pacific Lines, occurred about one-half mile south of the city limits last Saturday morning, when a ball Mo-Pac diesel-pulled freight car derailed causing 16 freight cars to pile up on the right of way. The 16 cars, all loaded with assorted merchandise, were strewn on both sides and on the road bed where about 450 feet of rails were completely torn out. None of the crew was injured. One flat car, loaded with seven combines, was dug in crosswise and the merchandise scattered among the other cars, apparently smashed beyond repair. Other merchandise damaged consisted of new Buick and Studebaker automobiles, light pickup trucks, carload of beer, pulp paper, conduits and steel pipes.
The fourth class of Veterans Agricultural Training under the GI Bill is scheduled to begin Monday. Instructor for the class is Robert O. A. Myers.
Lions to start good will tour March 9th, visiting Biggers, Reyno and Datto.
The Corning Bottling Plant has completed renovation of all equipment and is now operating on a full time basis in the new modern building on Second Street. The Plant and property is owned by W. F. Mullins, who, with the new plant manager, L. P. King, has been overseeing the changeover and improvements for the past two months.
A new laundry service was opened Wednesday in the Latimer building, offering at present wet wash service. Operators are Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Melton.
Gerald Farrell, local REA manager, said Tuesday that the local Cooperative is now making contact with engineers for drafting blueprints for the new REA building which is to be built here soon. Construction costs, he said, were roughly estimated at between $50,000 and $60,000, however, a fairly accurate estimate could not be made until the plans are completed. The ground, which is 150 by 200 feet, facing the highway, was provided by Corning business and professional men under sponsorship of the YMCC.
The Courier is authorized to announce Homer Porter as a candidate for city marshal of Corning, subject to the city election on Tuesday, April 6.
A school board election was held here Saturday, March 20, for the purpose of electing two members. G. A. Jimerson was elected to serve for a term of five years and E. W. Cochran for three years. Incumbent members T. C. Gallegly and W. W. Henry were not candidates for reelection. These two men (Gallegly and Henry) have been very instrumental in building the district from a one brick building, 14 teacher system into the 45 teacher system with building and plant investment of over $200,000.
The city ballot, which is being printed this week, will show the following list of candidates from which the local electors will make their choice of their city officials for the next two years: mayor, J. E. Ballenger and Brooks Sheeks: recorder, J. F. Arnold, Jr., and Wyatt Johnson: treasurer, G. A. Lamb: city attorney, Bryan J. McCallen, city marshal, Homer Porter and D. A. Snider; for aldermen, Arvel Hicks, Everett Thomas, H. Goode, Walter Hastings, James Rhodes, H. E. Bridgeforth. E. J. Cox. J. H. Magee and D. L. Ousnamer.
The Baptist Church of Corning will begin construction on a new building about the middle of April. The new structure will replace the building which was destroyed on December 31st when lightning struck the building and started a fire. Aaron Ahrent, who built the other structure, will have charge of the construction work.
Corning's population has increased approximately one-third since the 1940 census was taken. The census last week by the city gave the population as 2,140. The 1940 federal census listed Corning at 1,619 or 521 less persons that the present population. Counting was done by Mr. and Mrs. Cloyd Wright.
In one of the hottest contested municipal elections held here in many years, J. E. Ballenger was elected mayor by only the slight plurality of 12 votes, Tuesday.
A United States 50 cent piece, dated 1928,[1828 ?] with 13 stars represented the 13 colonies, encircling the profile of Martha Washington. was found by Charles L. (Scatter) Smith here Monday afternoon while cleaning his back yard.
Shortly after the Courier was placed in the mail last week, our neighbor, Charley Bailey, veteran tinsmith, brought in a pocketbook full of early dated coins. The oldest was a 50 cent piece dated 1810 which takes first place in the contest which is taking shape for the holder of the oldest US coin possessed by a local resident. Bailey's collection also contains a one-dollar gold piece dated 1851; a Jackson penny dated 1833, Civil War coins with inscription "No Submission to the North" (1860) and another inscribed "The Wealth of the South, Rice and Cotton."
Charles E. Rhea died suddenly at about 10:30 Sunday night from heart failure. He had been suffering from heart trouble for about one year. He fell dead while attempting to reach the rear door at the Corning Hotel here, which he and Mrs. Rhea owned and operated. As a youth he worked in the Weindel stave factory which was located in southeast Corning. He later farmed for several years and entered the grocery business.
Look under your Pop-Kola bottle caps, there are numbers. Numbers 7 and 11 get a free bottle of Pop-Kola. Have fun, see who gets the low number. Corning Bottling Company. 
First place in the Courier Old Coin Contest this week goes to the 1799 silver dollar. As promised, the silver dollar showed up and takes top place today. The US coin was submitted by Mrs. Irvie Deering of Success. It is one of a collection owned by the Deering's son, Perrimen Deering, of Flint, Michigan. His old coin collection, many of which he obtained while he was a B-24 gunner in the Pacific Theatre, is one of the largest presented. Other old coins presented by them were an 1837 penny and a two cent coin dated 1864. Another oddity in the possession of Gus Mills, is a US currency bill for 25 cents, dated 1874.
A mass meeting has been called for Tuesday night at the Corning school auditorium for all citizens of the Western District who are interested in the Western Clay Community Recreation Council. The meeting will be sponsored by the civic, religious and youth organizations. Free eats, old fashioned community singing, entertainment and band music will feature the evenings program. 
Clyde Campbell Estes, editor and owner of the Clay County Courier for 50 years, died Thursday afternoon, April 22. 
Arthur J. Brannon has received his permanent appointment from the US Post Office Department as Rural Route One mail carrier, effective as of Saturday, May 1. He replaced Edward Spence. Champ Clark has been appointed to fill the position of Brannon as State Weight and Traffic Inspector at the local permit station. 
C.H.S. graduates, class of 1948: Betty Carnahan, Doris Carter, Lessie Cate, Willene England, Mary Jane Hardesty, Betty Henkle, Glenna Johnson, Dulcina Kimball, Wilma M. Adams, Natelia Mulhollen, Anna Faye Parrish, Helen Rider, Helen Robertson, Erma Lea Rahm, Bette Walls, Loice Eagle, Rosie Baker, Gloria Cates, Georgia Carter, Shirley Crafton, Wanda Downs, Helen Goodman, Mary Kathryn Goldman, Jacquelyn Green, Muriel Hawkins, Dorothy Rushing, Jessie Smith, Sue Stephens, Delsoe Teasley, Sally Wright, Otto Ahrent, Clyde Bailey, Joe Hubbard, Lowell Jones, Luster Jones, Luster King, Gene Magee, Gene Phelan, Johnnie Shelton, Joe Thaxton, Paul White, Carl Whitledge, Robert Barnhill, Lloyd Cannady, Glen Cate, Alfred Cox, Dale Gobble, Bob Hanaford, Lloyd Jacobs, Carl Lafferty and Jimmy Oliver.
R. A. Reed was elected to head the Lions organization, as president, Tuesday night. Other officers elected were: G. A. Jimerson, first vice president; E. J. Cox, third vice president; R. J. Selig, secretary-treasurer; and C. E. Lynch, tail twister. Harry Stephens will serve his second term as lion tamer.
The Corning School Band, under the direction of John O'Donoghue, will present the first series of ten summer concerts, Thursday evening, May 27, at the court square.
Stunt Night, sponsored by the Literary and Garden Club and presented last Friday night at the Corning school auditorium, was a huge success and proved to be a very entertaining event. First prize was presented to the Business and Professional Women's Club who presented a review of "Aunt Samantha's". Aunt Samantha was characterized by Ann Hutchins. Second prize was presented to the YMCC. C. E. Lynch was master of ceremonies and introduced members of the Civic Club who modeled the latest in women's street, evening and beach wear. Other participants: "The Educated Horse" by the Library Board: "Worst Aid" by the Girl Scouts. "Blackface Skit" by the Lions and "Once A Sailor, Always a Sailor" by the bridge club. Proceeds of the event are to be used to landscape the grounds of the new library building.
The Courier Old Coin contest ended June 1, with Dr. J. S. Schirmer winning the $25 cash award. His winning coin was a one cent piece dated 1793, just one year after the first mint was established by an act of Congress in 1792. The coin was only one of many in his large coin collection, one of the largest in the state. Dr. Schirmer, president of the Mo-Ark Numismatists Club, in entering the winning coin, displayed a part of his collection, one of which he said, is one of the original 1913 proof nickels, which is valued at from $15,000 to $20,000 and is of the famous McDermott (of Milwaukee) collection. These 1913 proof nickels have caused considerable interest in the recent Lion Club Hobby Show where he placed it on display with the other coins in his collection. Another oddity in his collection is a one shilling piece, minted on the first mint at Boston, Mass. in 1652. These 1652 coins, according to a coin collector's guide book, were minted without royal license by the first colonies, by order of the General Court of Massachusetts, by one John Hull, on a fee basis of one shilling for every 20 made. Other coins in Dr. Schirmer's collection which are proving very interesting to coin collectors in this area, are an 1894 fifty cent piece, 1783 one-half cent piece, 1791 small Washington eagle one cent piece.
Deputy Sheriff Belford C. England, age 50, died of a heart attack late Friday about one-half mile north of Knobel while searching for two youths who broke jail here about one hour earlier.
Ed G. Downey, who, with his wife operated the Sunshine Cafe here, had a narrow escape from drowning Monday afternoon while seining for minnows on Black River, east of Corning. Downey, his stepson, Jack Collins, 16, and John O'Donoghue were wading in shallow water along the bank of the river when Downey stepped into a deep hole and submerged.
Although he is a good swimmer, he was immediately handicapped due to the fact that he breathes through a tube in his throat made necessary by an accident several years ago. Water rushed into his lungs through the tube, strangling him. Young Collins, jumped into the water and pulled his stepfather to safety.
American Legion Officers. Winfred Polk, commander: Harvey Sharp, first vice commander: Roy Mabry, second vice commander: Troy Jackson, third vice commander: Carl Launius, adjutant: Sol Lester, sergeant at arms: J. M. Oliver, Jr., chaplain: R. J. Selig, service officer: and W. L. Oliver, athletic director.
The new office building constructed by Attorney Bryan McCallen, is nearing completion with most of the inside finishing done. The north half of the brick structure is now occupied by Dr. M. C. Richardson and the south will soon be occupied by McCallen.
A modern residential five-room dwelling is in the process of being built by C. R. Black on north Third Street in the Black Addition. In the concrete block and brick building being constructed across the street from the post office on Second Street, concrete floor is being poured and is expected to be occupied by the A. N. Johnson and Son Jewelry and Appliance Store within a few weeks.
Wing schools in Corning School District No. 8 which have been opened for the summer term: Mager, Mrs. Mabel G. Spence: Dell, Reginald Sorrells: Hopsonville, Mrs. Martha Dean Spence: Hopson Valley, Mrs. Hosea Davis: Williams, Miss Louise Gallegly; Wildwood, Mrs. Elsie Holifield; Ring, Miss Vaunita Poynor; White, Mrs. Ellis Wright; Success, Alvin Cole Principal, Mrs. Eula Watson, Miss Magdaline Hubbard, Mrs. Elsie Cole, Mrs. Reva Phipps, Miss Nell Romack. These schools will run two months and dismiss for the cotton picking season.
Immediate delivery on the new Kaiser and Frazier automobiles, no trade in needed, regular dealers price on the new Willys Overland Jeeps, pickups and station wagons. Modern Motors, Louise Morrisette and John Staples. 
Water service was shut off several hours early Sunday morning due to a water main bursting at the south end of Second Street. The four inch pipe burst shortly after midnight Saturday, flooding the field to the south with about 100,000 gallons of water.
Postmaster W. E. Polk this week announces that free parcel post delivery service is extended to the City of Corning. Ed Spence, former Route One Rural mail carrier, was awarded a temporary contract on the low bid basis.
The new church building of the Jesus Name Pentecostal Church near Main and 4th streets in Corning has been completed and dedication services will be held August 8, followed by a revival meeting with Evangelist H. E. Reed of Hot Springs, conducting. The new church building is a 30 by 66 stucco, valued at about $10,000.
Rue Luter, former Datto resident, has been appointed deputy sheriff for the Western District, filling the office held by the late B. C. England.
The Corning Library will be closed one week commencing August 30th through September 4th during which time the library will be moved into the new library building which is located directly in front of the high school building.
A new streamliner Pan-Am filling station and modern cafe is now being constructed on the Wood's Equipment property on US 67 and is expected to be in operation some time this fall.
The front room in the J. F. Arnold building, occupied by the Corning Post Office, was enlarged last week by removing a partition back 16 feet, thus somewhat enlarging the facilities for our rapidly expanding post office department.

1949
The Mary Construction Company of Cape Girardeau has moved some of its equipment here preparatory to putting down a 14-mile section of gas pipe line from Reyno to the Missouri state line. This section will join sections previously put down last summer will fill gaps of a second 24-inch gas line
Corning residents awoke Monday morning to the worst flooded street conditions experienced here since 1945. A torrential rain, which fell after two o'clock that morning, flooded streets and over taxed the city's sewage system, causing water to back up into the basements of many homes and buildings over the town.
Fire again took a heavy toll in personal property here early last Saturday morning when the two-story three apartment frame structure owned by Mrs. Mamie Folsom burned to the ground. Consumed in the flames were practically all household furniture, clothing and personal effects of the three families who occupied the building. Families burned out were the Royce Hobbys, Mr. and Mrs. Max Wier and two children and Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Vanhook. The Folsom apartment, better known here as the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Daniels' residence, was a landmark, having been built in 1888 by the late Willis Ray, father of Mrs. W. W. Henry.
The city council, with Mayor J. E. Ballenger, in a special called meeting, Tuesday night, passed a resolution which effected a contract with a Little Rock bonding firm to make available funds to provide Corning with natural gas.
John B. Shaver, local merchant, was seriously injured east Saturday morning when he fell from a heating stove to the concrete floor while adjusting a stove pipe and lost his balance.
The main interest or concern of local property owners who attended the YMCC Community Clinic at the high school gymnasium Thursday night, was storm sewer drainage and street and sidewalk improvement.
Corning has at last been advanced to a class eight city, this paper was informed by Mayor Ballenger, Wednesday. The official notice was received the same day from the Arkansas Inspection and Rating Bureau, whose engineers made a detailed inspection of our city on January 25.
The city council at a meeting held Friday night, voted to purchase a new self-propelled street and road grader. The machine will be similar to the grader used by the county, only on a smaller scale and will cost approximately $2,000.
The Polk Chevrolet Company, Inc. of Corning was issued articles of incorporation by Secretary of State Hall last week, opening Corning's newest business enterprise. The new firm set up for business with capital stock of $30,000 is owned by Winfred D. Polk, H. H. Harris and Harold Riggan.
The razing of the old city Light Plant engine room in southwest Corning is nearing completion by the Black Lumber Co., owners of the property.
Fire tragedy struck Corning it 9:30 Tuesday morning, the worst since the St. James Hotel fire 20 years ago. It brought the death of little Mary Evelyne Landers, pretty three year old blond headed daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Landers of south First Street.
Contract let Wednesday for $75,000 Cooperative building here, new headquarters for the Clay County Electric Cooperative Corporation.
The business men of Corning have leased Pringle Field in east Corning for the purpose of equipping it as a public playground and athletic field.
John O'Donoghue, local band director, with the Corning School Board, has worked out plans to give music instructions free to any student from the fifth grade through the 12th grade for the summer months of June, July and August.
The Corning American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars with J. M. Oliver, Jr., chairman of graves registration are compiling a list of all armed service connected veterans who have been buried in Corning Cemetery, as a permanent record for all communities in the area. The following is a list of all who have been identified to date. Grand Army of the Republic-Calvin D. Buckley, W. H. Clark, Alfred B. Curry, George Elliott, S. A. King, William Powers, George M. Thomas, W. W. West; Spanish-American- Grant Lamb, Claud E. Skinner; World War One-Alonzo Bloom, Jessie J. Brown, Charley W. Brown, Claud Cravens, Williard R. England, George Graves, Fred Kimball, William Larue, Doc Ousnamer, Luther E. Smith, George M. Thomas, Charles E. Ulmer, Thomas J. Ward; World War Two-Albert Poynor, Norman Rapert, M. F. Richardson, Herbert Ellis Ward, Benjamin A. Wilson, John D. Wilson, James Buffington, William L. Cochran [Cockrum], Charles Easterwood, Wm. E. Galemore, Avery L. Harpole, Vernon High, Delbert D. Howell, A. T. Hubbard, Jr., Millard F. Jones, Lloyd William Leonard, John C. Miller.
One of Corning's oldest residential structures is being razed by orders of the owners, the heirs of the W. B. Teters estate. The house, located on West Seventh and Highway 62, was built before 1880, the date not known. C. V. Beloate who came here from Pocahontas in 1873, 76 years ago, said the structure was here when he moved here. Beloate celebrated his 94th birth anniversary July, 15. Hugh Risner came to Corning in 1888 from a farm near Arlington, Ky. He didn't ever recall ever having heard when the old Bishop houses were built, but said he did clearly remember that it was in the center of a forty acre tract Mr. Bishop farmed and later was known as the Bishop addition. Mr. Risner will celebrate his 76th birthday August 6. Another old-timer, W. M. Felsberg, said the house was here when he moved here in 1895, and that there had been so many changes he could not recollect, only that it was in farm land owned by the Bishops. Mr. Felsberg will be 88, October 6th. Found in an upstairs room Monday, when the razing began, was one of the journal of accounts used by the late Sylvanus Bishop. The book was rubber stamped, "S. Bishop, Wagon Maker and Painter" and bore mute evidence of an era long gone, when all transportation was by horse drawn carriages and other such vehicles. Examining the contents of this journal, one can readily realize that the United States dollar was a real asset to its owner during the years from 1878 to 1884. A few of the debits and credits listed are: three log boats were made for $6; one large, single tree, 25 cents; two young sows, in trade, $8; cypress lumber, $1.15 per hundred feet; one hog, 134 pounds at four cents, $5.44; one wagon bed, $4.50; one neck yoke, 25 cents; seven crayon racks for Corning School Board, 40 cents; one calico covered coffin, panel, top and box, $5; one ox tongue, $1.15; one load of firewood, 50 cents; spoking hind wheel on doctor's carriage, 50 cents; one 15 and one-half pound ham, $1.93; one axle in log wagon, $2.05; five bushels corn, $2.50; one four inch axle in mule wagon, $2.50. Coffins for infants and adults were made in great numbers each month by the late Mr. Bishop's wagon shop, prices ranging from $2 to $15 for velvet trimmed coffins with handles and coffin box.
The largest Clay County Electric Cooperative membership meeting ever held here since the cooperative was organized in 1939 was Tuesday's meeting at Wynn Park with an estimated crowd of about 7,000 attending the annual event. Governor McMath was the speaker.
The Polk Chevrolet Company, Inc., purchased the Teter Estate property which consists of five lots, located on Highway 62 in northwest Corning. This property has been in the hands of the Teter family for many years, originally charted as city property by the late Sylvanus Bishop, who, according to old settlers here, farmed that part of Corning prior to 1880.
Corning's house numbering project, under the sponsorship of the Lions Club, will get underway this week, Mayor J. E. Ballenger announced Monday. Business houses and residences will be 75 cents for each location or house. The business section will be numbered first.
Dr. J. F. Schirmer will enter practice at the Corning Hospital the latter part of August, his father, Dr. J. S. Schirmer, informed this paper Monday. Captain Schirmer received his degree from the U. of A. School of Medicine. He and Mrs. Schirmer will occupy the home owned by Mr. and Mrs. Brack Smith soon after he is to be placed on inactive duty, August 12.
Joe Companiotte's Machine Shop is now opened on Highway 62 between 4th and 5th Streets.
Darrell Hicks, 14-year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Hicks of Blue community, suffered the loss of his right foot as a result of a sawmill accident last Friday.
Announcement is made this week of the purchase of a plot of land containing approximately 12 and one-half acres by the Corning School District from T. W. Wynn. The land is on the western edge of Corning and bounds the Civic Club Wynn Park on the east and south. The western edge of the plot expands to within 300 feet of the Corning Air Field. Included in the plot is the present Wynn baseball field. The purchase of the land is announced by Gordon Lamb, school board president and Eulis Cochran and George Jimerson, school board members.
Mills Addition to Corning, comprised of seven square blocks in southwest Corning, has been platted on the documental records here and is now open for home site seekers.
Beginning September 11, Catholic Mass services will be held in the room formerly occupied by the Corning Library, second floor, State Theatre building.
Arthur Bramlett, former local peace officer, has been employed as night marshal, taking over his duties September 1.
Three more new houses are being added to the Hastings' Addition is southwest Corning, making a total of 11 new houses built in the new addition since it was charted last year. Nearing completion is the modern five-room house being built by Mr. and Mrs. Louis Simmons. Under construction are two more being built by Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Lester and Mr. and Mrs. Shorty Cochran. Homes completed and occupied to date are by: Mrs. John Phelan, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Delaney, Mr. and Mrs. John Cargil, Mr. and Mrs. John Barksdale, Mr. and Mrs. Cleo Johnston, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Dawson, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Grayson and Mr. and Mrs. Harviell Baker.
Seventeen men were fined in J. P. Court here on a charge of crap shooting by Prosecutor Grant Ward of Piggott, Thursday, September 1. All pleaded guilty and were released after paying fines of $50 each, which included costs. Sheriff B. O. Dalton and four Eastern District deputies took 20 men into custody about two o'clock Thursday afternoon shortly after they walked up to the group, who apparently was unaware that they were officers.
Kenneth Pettit was elected member of the school board, receiving 168 votes. He replaces Oscar Bennett, Bennett Township who had served several terms. Mack Blackwood, whose name did not appear on the official ballot, received a write in vote of 73.
The brick building formerly occupied by Polk Insurance Agency, and originally occupied by the long extinct Corning Bank, is now vacant for the first time since it was built over 50 years ago.
Dr. L. B. Golden, the recently called pastor for the Corning First Baptist Church, and Mrs. Golden will move into the parsonage Saturday. 
A city ordinance, referred to as the gas ordinance, was passed at a city council meeting last Friday night should prove to be of interest to all local property owners or those renting property here. The ordinances sets forth all rules regulations which will govern safety measures in the installation of gas appliances, gas pipes and to regulate the sale, maintenance and repairs of natural gas and such appliances. The passage of this ordinance is another step toward bringing natural gas to Corning by our council, headed by Mayor J. E. Ballenger.
Rue Luter has been appointed Deputy Sheriff for the Western District, Sheriff B. O. Dalton announces.
A great many Christmas and other greeting cards will fail to be delivered this season because they are mailed without sufficient postage, Postmaster W. E. Polk announces. There is no more one half cent postage rate on greeting cards, the postmaster said. All greeting cards require at least a two cent stamp and some of them require three cents whether sealed or not.
The city council, at a meeting Thursday night, approved the extension of Olio Street, three blocks west, into Wynn Park. Work of grading and graveling approximately the three blocks extension, Mayor Ballenger said, was to start immediately. The land was recently dedicated to the city by T. W. Wynn. A petition to change the name of Olio Street to Harb Avenue has been submitted to the council and will be given a final reading before passage at the next council meeting. The new name will be officially filed, honoring the memory of one of Corning's prominent pioneer county officials, the late Will H. Harb.
O. E. Barber, Corning School Superintendent for the past two school years has notified the local school board of his resignation. The local school board has employed M. D. Forrest, now superintendent at Lake Village, as Superintendent for Corning Schools for the 1949-50 school term.
Another novel plan for entertaining the huge crowd of celebrants at Wynn Park on the 4th has been planned by the picnic committee will be releasing of some 200 toy balloons filled with helium gas, offering cash prizes to the persons finding the balloons.
Services were held here Sunday for Dr. Jacob Frederick Schirmer, father of Dr. J. S. Schirmer, owner of the Corning Hospital, who died June 23. He celebrated his 100th birthday just four days before he died at the local hospital where he had made his home with his son since 1946.
William Duncan Polk, 84, pioneer Clay County banker, merchant, county official and land owner, died at his home here Monday, July 18. He established the first bank in Clay County, the same year of his marriage, which operated with Mr. Polk as president for many years.

1950
US Highway 67 from Corning to Little Rock has been designated as a Memorial Highway, honoring Arkansas war heroes and commemorating the services of the armed forces of the nation. Thus a plan initiated in New Jersey in 1943 has been brought to Arkansas in an effort to extend the drive across the nation. A location three miles north of Corning on Highway 67, directly in front of the Landmark Baptist Church, has been selected as one of the four memorial sites in Arkansas.
Tornadoes, high winds and twisters which brought hundreds of dollars of damage reported. A two-place Luscomb plane valued at $1,500 owned by Walter Baker, anchored at the Corning Flying Service Field on US 67 was practically demolished when the wind storm pulled the plane from the concrete mooring, overturning it twice.
Mayor Joe Ballenger was notified Wednesday that a car load of gas pipes were shipped Monday from Ohio and should arrive here the latter part of this week. The pipe, which is a second shipment to arrive, is for gas mains in the city, measuring six inches in diameter and 47 feet long. Work of installing the gas system by the Fort Smith Gas Company will start immediately after the Pocahontas gas system is completed, or about May 15, company officials said.
The Corning Central School Annuals for 1950 were distributed to the students the past week and are creating considerable interest among the students, faculty members and school patrons. The Annuals, first to be printed here, are very attractive in their black leatherette covers, with gold embossed lettering. Miss Maurine Hatfield and Mrs. Joe Cox were sponsors of the Annual.
The first spring meeting of the YMCC was held at the home economics cottage, Monday night, with ham dinners served to 45 members and guests by students of Mrs. Donald Young. Many reports and discussions were heard relative to community activities, programs and events. Additional acreage for Corning Cemetery has been purchased, adjoining the Cemetery on the north side and will be leveled for much needed additional burial lots in the near future. C. R. Black, chairman of the cemetery committee, financed purchase of the property, under the sponsorship of the YMCC.
Work of planting redbud and dogwood trees on this section of the Blue Star Memorial Highway began this week. As stated in a recent issue of the Courier the planting will extend from the site of the memorial plaque opposite the Landmark Baptist Church on Highway 67 to Corning and is a memorial to friends and relatives who served in the armed forces in World War II.
Two families in this district lost all personal possessions when the houses in which they resided burned to the ground last Thursday and Friday. Mr. and Mrs. Norman Knowlton and their four children of Brazzell community, were the first of the two families to be dispossessed of all household equipment, clothing and food supplies. The second burnout, which, like that of the Knowltons, took all family possessions, occurred here the following morning when the house occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Royce Hobby and daughter, Betty, and son, Brewster, located in the Pritchard Addition, northwest Corning, also burned with total loss.
Good representation of Lion membership heard Max Mehlberger, Little Rock drainage engineer, outline recommendations for Corning's proposed new water and sewer systems at the Tuesday night meeting. His firm has just completed a preliminary survey of the city to determine the needs to modernize and enlarge the water and sewer facilities.
A tentative plan for construction of a modern swimming pool for Corning may become a reality next year, that is, if the Corning Lions Club is given the whole support of other local civic organizations, business men and individuals. 
Dr. Charley A. Barnhill of Indianapolis, Ind., visited relatives here for the first time since he left 54 years ago. While here he was a guest of his nephew, Roy G. Barnhill, at Barnhill Camp. Early settlers here remember Dr. Barnhill, who practiced dentistry in Corning in the early 90's. He was a member of the Corning Band at that time. Dr. Barnhill said he could not believe his eyes when he viewed the old Jim Matthew's Fair Grounds, then out in the country, as he expressed it. The Matthews home was located where Day's Tourist Court is now located and the fair grounds just to the west. He also failed to recognize the home site of the late Cal Woodalls, which is now where Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Maddox reside.
$260 Million H-Bomb Plant May Located Near Corning-Since it was announced recently that $260 million hydrogen bomb plant is likely to be built either in Newton County, northwest Arkansas, or in the Irish Wilderness, 19 miles northwest of Doniphan, approximately 50 miles from Corning, interest of the residents of both states is gaining rapidly.
Miss Edith Bennett of Corning, vice chairman of the Clay County Democratic Central Committee for the past two years, has acted as chairman since W. O. Irby resigned to run for office. Miss Bennett has presided over four meetings in a very capable manner.
Here is what happened to old age and survivors insurance in the northeast Arkansas area this week when President Truman signed the 1950 amendments to the Social Security Act. The $2,500 now being paid to 156 persons in Clay County will be increased to $5,500.
An overflow attendance of Lion Club members heard G. A. Lamb, president of the school board, in an informative talk on the subject of better schools for better education, Tuesday night. In opening his address, he reminded the 48 Lions and guests that our schools are our biggest business in Clay County with an annual turnover of approximately one third of a million dollars. The district now employs some 56 teachers and is maintaining a Grade "A" school at a very economical cost per pupil for the education they receive. In order to maintain a Grade "A" school it will be no longer possible to force as many as 75 children on one teacher. The present school budget is approximately $165,000 this year. Of this amount the state pays $120,000 leaving a balance of $45,000 to be paid by local taxpayers. This certainly is no burden for the people to carry to educate 2,200 future citizens and it is only one half the nations average for student education.
Mr. and Mrs. Garland Melton of near McDougal were notified by telegram from the Adjutant General's Office, September 15, that their son, Cpl. J. T. Melton, had died of wounds received while fighting in Korea.
A 33 mill tax for Corning School District Number Eight was voted in by small margin, in Tuesday's school election. The six mill increase from 27 to 33 mills was vigorously contested over the district with four precincts out of six voting the increase down. The 360 votes polled in Corning precinct swung the election with the narrow margin of 38.
Pfc Olen R. Suftin, 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Suftin of McDougal is receiving treatment at the US Naval Hospital in Memphis for wounds received in Korea.
A meeting of Corning Industrial Development Association was held at the Corning High School agriculture building last Monday evening when plans were discussed to induce more industries to locate here. John Magee, president, and H. Brooks Sheeks, secretary, presided at the meeting.
Natural gas was turned on for the first time here Wednesday night. There was no official ceremony, but the gas was here, real, burning, heating, natural gas. A dedication program will be announced soon, when the city's gas system will be officially opened.
Voters in Kilgore Township will decide next Thursday, October 17, at a special election whether or not they want a proposed bond issue for the construction and extension of Corning's Water and Sewer Improvement Districts. The proposed issue to construct a modern sewage treatment plant southwest of Corning, provide treated water to the entire population of the city and modernize and extend water and sewage service to all residents of the city. At the present time an estimated one-third of the homes in Corning are not offered water and sewer service. The bond issue proposed is for a total of $227,000.
The Parkview Tourist Court, located on US 67 in west Corning, will formally open Saturday, July 1. Construction work on the new court started last September, by O. L. Woods, the builder, with Doyne Boyds, as supervisor. W. J. Rigney has been employed to manage the Parkview Courts.
A meeting sponsored by the Corning Lions Club called by the Mayor J. E. Ballenger at the Corning school study hall on Thursday night for the purpose of bringing to a head the long talked proposal to enlarge and modernize Corning's Water and Sewer Improvement Districts. 
At a meeting of the city council, Monday, two water and sewer commissioners for Corning Water and Sewer District, were elected. They were Winfred Polk and G. A. Lamb. They will replace G. A. Jimerson and W. M. Letbetter who, resigned in favor of reorganization of the two districts under the city management.
James Fred Arnold, prominent Corning business man for over half a century, died June 30. He was born in Vandalia, Ill., March 27, 1874 and came to Corning about 1885. He was associated with the late J. W. Black in the lumber business and operated a wholesale and retail grocery business here during his earlier business career. In later years he was associated with the First National Bank before entering the real estate business in which he was engaged until the time of his death. He was a commissioner of Corning Water and Sewer District No. 1 since it was organized some 25 years ago. He was a former member of the Oddfellows Lodge and became a member of the local Methodist Church in 1900.
The unexpected, never dreamed of, long thought to be impossible has happened to the Courier publisher. Lady luck visited briefly Tuesday and presented us with a new Chevrolet sedan at the YMCC July 4th Celebration at Wynn Park.
Highway 62 east of Corning is being prepared for asphalt paving between Corning and Junction 62-1 'Y' four miles east of Corning, according to information furnished this paper by Guy Cobb, maintenance engineer and assistant director of State Highway Department, Little Rock. Specifications call for 40 yards of gravel to each 100 feet with asphalt surface.
Two blocks of street hard surfacing are being completed soon between Second and Fourth Streets on Vine. Asphalt has been applied by city workers and rolled by a State Highway Department power driven roller, loaned to the city at the urging of Mayor J. E. Ballenger. The two blocks of pavement are being constructed on a trial basis on a pay as we go basis at the rate of approximately $300 for each block, with property owners defraying actual costs for material and work.
Dr. Fred Schirmer left here this week for transport to Yokohoma, Japan where he will be assigned as staff medical doctor with the regular Army, Far East Command. He will be commissioned as major upon arriving at his destination. Dr. Schirmer has been associated with his father, Dr. J. S. Schirmer, at the Corning hospital for the past six months when he was released from his duties as a transport ship surgeon in the Atlantic Ocean.
Harley B. Nesler, Jr., 23, former Corning resident, died at two o'clock Wednesday morning at the Kennedy General Hospital in Memphis. His death was attributed to injuries received when his 1950 Nash sedan overturned several times at a curve south of Kennett early Saturday morning, July 22. Harley B. Nesler, age 21, his brother, who was also in the car when it overturned, died in a Kennett hospital a few hours after the accident occurred. The brothers were returning here from a visit with their father who died at Paragould the day of the fatal accident.
Dr. A. D. Cox 78, prominent Clay County physician for 38 years, died at the Lucy Lee Hospital in Poplar Bluff, Tuesday night. Dr. Cox was reared and educated in Maine. After receiving his medical degree in 1903, he was ordained as a Baptist minister and preached in his home state. Later he joined the staff of the Loyola University of Medicine, Chicago, as instructor and lecturer for the following nine years. He came to Corning in 1912, casually stopping here for a few hours, enroute to the west coast. He set up his office and established his first practice at Moark. The following 38 years, until his death August 8, he practiced medicine in Corning, Palatka and Success, establishing his last practice here in 1932.
Mack Blackwood, who has been operating the Blackwood and Adams Hardware and Furniture Store here in partnership with Norace Adams since 1944, took over full ownership of the business Monday, when he bought Mr. Adams' interest.
Vickie Ann Williams, two year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Homer Williams, was burned to death Sunday when the house in which they were residing in Ring community, went up in flames at about 1:30 p.m., Sunday.
Renford E. Pogue is new veteran's instructor at Knobel High School. The class has the following veterans enrolled: Austin Arnold, W. T. Bennett, Miles A. Bolick, Walter F. Bowers, James O. Coyles, Lee O. Dicus, Eugene F. Fitzgerald, Hubert R. Foley, Herbert Forehand, Perry V. Gott, Leroy Hill, Ira A. Maddux, Randal S. Miller, Ivan L. Milburn, Delbert K. McDonald, Doyle C. McElyea, Chester A. Pierce, Jerome Scheller, Henry C. Townsend, Lonnie L. Watkins. 
T. B. Hollinworth, of Stuttgart, Arkansas, district manager of Southwest States Telephone Company, was in Corning last Thursday in an effort to interest someone in the construction of a brick building in which to locate the local telephone office.
Thirty-eight lakes and streams have been reported to Pete Gregory, president of the Greene County wildlife group, as open to year around fishing in Greene, Randolph, Lawrence and Clay counties. Game Warden R. R. Ruff of Clay County, listed Taylor Lake, Anderson Lake, Long Lake, Murphy Lake, Peoples Lake, Woolfork Lake, Pointer lake, Moark Lake, Hinkle Lake, Old River, Lost Lake, Knobel Lake, and Ring Slough.
James M. Oliver, Jr., was awarded the VFW Americanism plaque at a dinner held Thursday night in the home economics building. Phil Lehman, in presenting the plaque, explained that Oliver had been chosen by the local VFW Post for his excellent spirit and untiring efforts in fostering Americanism in our communities.
The Corning Parent-Teacher Association's drive for a hot lunch program here has been enthusiastically supported by local citizens with total contributions to date amounting to approximately $3,300. Contributions literally poured in over the past weekend when it was announced by the PTA that turn back or refund money to patrons of the Arkansas-Missouri Power Company would be accepted and ear marked for the hot lunch program.
The largest delegation ever to assemble at the State Capitol from western Clay County was received in Governor McMath's reception room Monday afternoon. Estimated at about 250, the crowd represented practically every type of citizen and nearly 50 seniors from Corning High School. The motive for the mass movement from Corning to Capitol Hill was the hard surfacing of Highway 1-W from Corning to Paragould, one of the most depleted and hazardous 30 mile strips of state highway in our state. It has been worn out for many years and traffic over the strip after the rainfall is extremely dangerous due to slippery conditions.
The Scrivner Motor Sales Chrysler-Plymouth dealership here was sold early this week by L. A. Scrivner to G. D. Hammock and Dee and Gordon Hammock, former Blytheville residents.
The city water tank is being repaired and repainted with considerable work necessary to protect the water improvement district's investment of an estimated $22,000.
George Bridges was appointed as temporary deputy circuit clerk, March 6, by Chancery Judge C. M. Buck, and took over duties at the courthouse here the same day. He replaces Denzil C. Wright, who has been deputy circuit court clerk here. Denzil's resignation was accepted by Judge Buck, Monday.
Sidney Hunt, age 33, was critically burned about the head, shoulders, arm and back, at about six o'clock Saturday morning while removing his six children from their burning home near Murphy Lake, southwest of Corning. The fire destroyed the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Hunt with all the family's clothing and home furnishings.
Street markers are soon to be erected at 96 intersections in Corning, under sponsorship of the Lions Club. Steel posts arrived the latter part of last week, Roy Goodman, secretary of the Lions Club, said, thus ending the reason for delay of installation.
The Corning Central School Band, under the direction of John O'Donoghue, has entered the Stunt Night competition sponsored by the Literary and Garden Club. The band will present two numbers entitled, "Ragtime Wedding" and Circus Parade". The four other competing organizations and the titles of their stunts are: B. and P. W. Club, "Martha Biggers' Pumpkin"; VFW, "A Miracle of Modem Science"; Lions Club, "The Bridge Club"; YMCC, "Saying Their Pretty Pieces." In addition to the stunts special entertainment will be provided by Miss Nell Keen, Miss Rosemary Carter, and Frank David Bennett. YMCC cast: George (Slim) Henderson, Max (Spud) Wier, Dick (Sally) Reed, Herman (Sidney) Day, Owen (Sluggo) Henderson, Fred (Dickie) Cox, Gordon L. Hutchins, Harold Riggan, Champ Clark, Dixie Polk, Carl Walker and Doby Cochran; B. and P. W. cast: Ann Hutchins, Grace Belford, Letha Thompson, Beverly Shephard, Opal Creason, Helen Carter, Edith Bennett, Lilly Pillow, Sue Dennis; VFW cast: Phil Lehman, H. J. Pillow, Jr., Gray Ruff and ??. Lions Club cast: John Black, James Poteet, Louis Graber, Buck Estes, Gordon Hammock., John A. Magee, C. R. Black, Jr., Lem Scrivner and Roman Selig, Jr.
Fitzgerald's Drug Store was being moved into its new location south of the post office, Wednesday night. The 45x80 foot building, formerly owned by C. E. Lindsey, was purchased a few weeks ago by Earl Fitzgerald.
Junior Rice, who resided south of Corning, was driving a one-ton truck when it stalled in the middle of the Mo-Pac main line grade crossing which leads to the J. W. Black hardwood lumber yard in southeast Corning, Sunday evening. Rice and two friends who were in the truck attempted to push it from the path of the passenger train which was slowing down for the curve north of the Corning Lake trestle. Unable to move the truck, the men flagged down the train just in time to prevent a serious crash. The engineer applied brakes to bring the train to a speed of about 12 miles per hour when it struck the truck.
State Board of Health and Sanitation engineers inspected Corning's water and sewer systems Wednesday and surveyed the city for the purpose of making recommendations to correct any conditions, which may endanger the health of local residents. Mayor J. E. Ballenger, members of the city council and Water and Sewer Commissioner W. M. Letbetter met with the engineers after the inspection tour for a lengthy discussion about proposed and needed improvements and extensions in the city's system. Department officials recommended three definite improvements to be made in order to comply with state and city health ordinances: Provide the city with a sanitary sewage disposal plant where city sewage now empties into open ditches; All outdoor toilets be disposed of at once; Contamination of open streams be stopped in accordance with state health and sanitation laws.
C.H.S. graduates of 1950: Ruby Baker, Georgia Beck, Peggy Blaylock, Oma Dean Brown, Rosie Carter, Jean Cate, Rosamond Crafton, Genivee Culver, Dorma Jean Fischer, Betty Grant, Wyone Hartwig, Willadean Leach, Louise McFann, Anita McKinney, John Phelan, Muriel Phelan, Esta Lee Poyner, Laska Robertson, Glenna Smith, Loveta Smith, Velma White, Billy Ainley, Marvin Baker, Johnny Bartlett, Richard Baxter, Thural Berry, John Chappel, Louis Decker, Don DeArmon, Charles Durham, Billy James Douglas, Donald Gene Goodman, J. W. Hagerman, Earl Hester, James Hollis, Bobby James, Lynden Kamerman, Eugene Maddox, Gene Mitchell, Bill Oliver, Jr., Jackie L. Ousnamer, Charles Patterson, Lavarell Poyner, Charles Propst, Deward Rapert, Gene Scrivner, Webster Smith, Carroll Sutton, Archie Taylor, Jigger Ward, Charles Wilson and Glenn Witcher. 
Although census work has been completed, official figures are not available due to federal regulations. Unofficial count is 2,250 persons. Latest approximately 32 per cent more acreage. Widest area from east to west is one and one-fourth miles and north to south is one and one-half miles, with a total of some 640 acres compared to 440 acres in 1946. Included in this expansion of 200 acres are Black's re-subdivision in north Corning; W. R. Arnold's six additions; Prichard's two additions in northwest Corning; Hastings and Mills additions in southwest Corning; and the Griggs and Estes additions in west Corning.
New headquarters building for Clay County Electric Cooperative Corporation, just completed, at a cost of $95,000 will be formally opened at Corning, May 24, 1950. Jess Dismang, whose home is at Maynard, is manager of the Cooperative. Officers and directors are Mrs. Agnes Pillow, Lem Presson, Mrs. Katie Allbright, J. F. Ellis, Mack Dalton, Roy Creek, E. G. Ward and Elmer Johnson. James Rhodes is construction superintendent and Mrs. Louise P. Gallegley is Home Electrification Advisor. Employees are: Charles E. Adams, Imogene Eaton, Letha C. Thompson, Wanda King, Kenneth Harmon, Mamie Street, James Huggins, Basil Eaton, Veda Maddox, Maxine M. Lacy, H. J. Pillow, Jr., Dixie Jean Adams, M. C. Hufstedler and Nelma Lee. Co-op servicemen: Lester Johnson, Delaplaine; Omar Arnold, Pocahontas; Ott Law, Corning and E. C. Johnson, Greenway. 
The latest figures on the number of children ages birth to 18, who are residing in the Corning School District are reported by M. D. Forrest, superintendent. The total number of children is 3,322. Of this number 1,076 are preschool children and 2,246 are of school age.
The Corning Home Appliance Center will hold its formal opening here Friday and Saturday in the J. F. Arnold building, formerly occupied by the Fitzgerald Drug Store. Mrs. Louise Nash is owner.
For Sale-Six room house, $1,000. This is the house located at the corner of West Second Street and Highway 62, known as the Corning Inn. The lots upon which the house now sets are not included, neither are the foundation blocks. Purchaser may have up to 60 days to remove said house from present location. Ed V. Sheeks.
Corning's 1950 population 2,209. Clay County loses 1,743.
Arnold's Third, Fifth and Sixth Additions were legally annexed to the city of Corning on June 8, 1950, and are now officially a part of Corning. the new addition comprises about 40 acres and the recent census started on April 1.
Construction work was started Monday of this week on the combination elementary and cafeteria building for the Corning school. The concrete footings are now being poured. The building, when completed, will house 12 elementary classrooms, a kitchen, a large combination dining hall and auditorium-gymnasium, with a clinic room, music room and office space. The unit being constructed now will not include all 12 classrooms. Eight of these rooms will be left off, to be added as the need for additional space is felt. The building is in the form of a large 'U'. The two wings of the 'U' are the classrooms. In the center part, which will face Polk Avenue, will be the kitchen on the south end, the multipurpose room in the center and the office, clinic and music rooms on the north end.
A number of Corning residents spent the holidays and are starting the new year in their new homes which they recently built. Among them are: Mr. and Mrs. O. L. Woods whose two-story brick English colonial home with nine rooms and basement is located on US 67 West; Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Drilling who have recently occupied their new white brick ranch type home with six rooms and two baths, located on south Third Street; Mr. and Mrs. L. F. Cochran are now settled in their new seven room and bath buff brick modern design home on Harb Avenue; Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Cox spent the holidays in their new six room and bath white frame dwelling in the Brooks Sheeks Addition; Mr. and Mrs. Ed Allensworth have moved into their new modern one and one-half story frame dwelling located on West Vine Street; Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Lester are in their new six room, two bath ranch type home built of white brick trim, located on Polk Avenue in southwest Corning and Mr. and Mrs. Shelton Futrell are occupying their new five room and bath home in the Brooks Sheeks Addition in northwest Corning.
Garland Owen Rice, 39 year old Wildwood community resident, was killed Saturday when his .22 caliber rifle was accidentally discharged, sending the bullet through his neck, severing the jugular vein.
Last rites for William Mathies Felsberg, 87, Corning resident for over 60 years, were held at the Methodist Church January 20. He came to Corning in 1890 at the age of 27 and was married to Maude Hughes in 1907. He was active for a number of years as a building contractor. Several business houses and residential structures which he built during those years still stand here. One is the old State Bank building on Second and Pine. After establishing himself in the contracting business, Felsberg opened the first retail lumber yard in this part of the state. About seven years later, he became Corning's first mortician, operating the only funeral home between Walnut Ridge and Poplar Bluff. He was widely known as a successful business man during the years of his activity here. He retired from active business in 1929.
The new cafeteria of the Corning Central School will open on Thursday October 19. All of the equipment has been completely installed and is ready for use. The cafeteria will be under the supervision of Mrs. Frank Johnson, who will have general supervision over all the Corning School District No. Eight cafeterias. Assisting her as manager of the Corning Central Cafeteria will be Mrs. Christine Blackburn. Additional workers in the Central cafeteria will be Mrs. Zerna Robinson, Mrs. Sterling Shepard, Mrs. Laura Robinson and Mrs. Louise VanHook.
I, J. E. Ballenger, Mayor of the City of Corning, Arkansas, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, November 7, 1950, as general election day for the election of all municipal officers for the said City of Corning, which officers include: a mayor, a clerk-recorder, a treasurer, a marshal, a city attorney and five councilmen.
The proposed revenue bond issue for enlarging and bettering Corning's water and sewer districts was defeated in a referendum election Tuesday by a vote of 248 against and 156 in favor of the issue. The election was probably one of the most hotly contested city elections in the city's history. Opponents of the bond issue waged a bitter campaign for several days preceding the election and on election day. They contended excessive rates of interest and that the $277,000 bond issue was too high in cost for the proposed improvements and extensions.
Ten thousand acres of Black River bottoms land, located in what is known as Little River Island are just southwest of Corning, was purchased Tuesday for a game refuge by the State Game and Fish Commission.
The city election this year will be held on the same day as the general election, Tuesday, November 7, only the ballot boxes will be separate, with a different set of judges and clerks for each in two voting places.
The Blue Star Memorial Marker, honoring all Arkansas war heroes, will be erected and dedicated in a ceremony to be held at the chosen site, a location three miles north of Corning on Highway 67, directly in front of the Landmark Baptist Church, Friday, November 10. 
The Corning Industrial Development Association will meet at the Sunshine Cafe, Monday night, for another dinner meeting. At this meeting, a project will be explained and discussed, relative to establishing a small manufacturing plant in Corning which will give employment to some 25 men.
Fifty-eight members of the Corning YMCC enjoyed an excellent dinner and meeting in the new grade school cafeteria, Monday night. Vice President Harold Riggan presided over the meeting in the absence of President Bryan McCallen. Senator-elect Jack Hurst of Rector was a guest of Walter Hastings. He spoke briefly on progress being made toward the completion of US Highway 62 between Corning and Piggott. The highway, according to information Hurst related, will be completed with asphalt hard surfacing during the coming year.
The Southwest States Telephone Company has been granted authority by passage of a city ordinance to increase telephone service rates in Corning, effective at next billing date. The new monthly rates which go into effect upon approval of the Arkansas Public Service Commission are: one party business, $5; two party business, $4.25; business extension, $1.50; one party residence $3.50; two party residence, $2.50; residence extension, $1.
Three traffic accidents occurred at Junction 67-62 in northwest Corning during the past ten days, but fortunately no one was injured. Damage, according to local officers, was confined to several hundred dollars to five cars and a Mo-Pac bus. Adequate electric flasher type signal lights are definitely needed on the heavily traveled trunk highways leading into Corning from the west and north. Markers approaching the junction are inadequate to the extent that many car and truck drivers run through the junction at high rates of speed to overrun the corner one or two blocks before realizing they missed the route.
The Corning Industrial Development Association met Monday at the Sunshine Cafe for its regular monthly meeting.
Nominated and elected as officers for the ensuing year were E. W. Cochran, president; N. N. Steinberg, vice president; F. A. Thompson, secretary and Brooks Sheeks, assistant secretary. The two new board members elected were Arlie Taylor and Ed V. Sheeks. Arlie Taylor announced that he will offer free of any charge, all equipment and tools necessary for someone to open and operate a small plant in Corning for manufacturing brooms, rag mops, feather dusters, toy brooms and whisk brooms. It was announced that a reliable estimate has been made from post office data for changes of addresses since the middle of September and approximately 320 persons have left Corning for Rockford, Ill., and other northern manufacturing centers for work.

1951
Corning's new city official were sworn in at a council meeting Tuesday night. They are: Frank Johnson, Mayor; L. F. Cochran, treasurer; Leslie Russell, recorder and councilmen Ed V. Sheeks, Dan Harold, Ed Eldracker, A. W. Ahrent and Thomas George.
Amelia Hammerslaugh, Miss Amelia, as her innumerable intimate friends knew her, was a woman who possessed the quality many writers have described as a beautiful character. She will long be remembered for her acts of thoughtfulness and helping kindness to others during her residency here for half a century. Miss Amelia was a familiar name to all who have lived here many years. She was born in Germany and came to America while quite young to live with the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Steinberg, prominent merchant-residents of many years ago. Mrs. Steinberg was an elder sister, residing then at Neelyville. In 1901 she moved with the Steinbergs to Corning after their general merchandise store at Neelyville burned. They opened another general merchandise store in the Matthews building here, then located at Main and West First Streets. Miss Amelia immediately became the topic of discussion among Corning folks, as a lady sales clerk which was unprecedented in this part of the country at that time. She was unexcelled in personality and sales ability and became a favorite among the citizenry. In later years, after the death of her sister, Mrs. Steinberg, she took over the responsibility of the Steinberg household, helping to rear the five Steinberg boys. Her death which occurred December 25 was attributed to heart failure.
Mayor Frank Johnson announces this week that the current five mill tax to retire the City of Corning bond account will no longer be necessary. There are enough US bonds held in escrow at the local bank with the interest they will earn, to satisfy the outstanding balance of approximately $12,500. The bond issue, which went into effect in 1940 to pay for seven and one-fourth miles of asphalt street paving and drainage improvements here, amounted to $60,000 in non-recallable bonds, retirable in 1961.
Dave Haskins, Route One, farmer recently in looking over old papers at home, discovered statements for purchases made during the crop season of 1897, which provided all the "store bought" necessities of life for the family of 11 of his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. O. O. Haskins of near Palatka. All supplies were purchased on "crop terms" at Klein and Rosenblum General Merchandise Store, which operated where Shaver Mercantile Store is now located. Purchases dated from February 18 to September 9, 1897 when the total amount, $32.85 was paid. Some of the items listed as used by Haskins and their children were: 17 pounds meat, $1.36; shoes, $1.75 pair; barrel salt, $1.10; sack of potatoes, 60 cents; overalls, $1 pair; pick sacks, 60 cents each; dress material, six cents per yard. According to the statements, which were bought to Oliver and Company Store here for comparison, it took $1.60 worth of tobacco to make the crop.
At a regular meeting of the Corning Industrial Development Association held Monday evening at the B. and P. W. Club room, President E. W. Cochran exhibited to the members present samples of common stock certificates and the seal of the recently incorporated Corning Industrial Building Corporation, the instrumentality through which the industrial development of Corning and surrounding trade territory will be advanced. Just as soon as points of policy have been solved, the books of the corporation will be opened for the sale of stock certificates, Cochran said. Brooks Sheeks made an interesting and encouraging report with reference to the possibility of securing the location of a garment factory here. Another subject receiving action by the association was that of effecting a radish growers association among the farmers for the purpose of growing radishes in large quantities for commercial sale. Radishes were once grown here successfully by farmers back in the mid-thirties. Lloyd Smith was designated to head a committee consisting of M. G. Hoffman, O. L. Woods, Charles Bowers and Dick Reed to organize and direct this endeavor.
Two Moark grade school pupils, Freddie Crego, ten, and his seven year old sister, Nancy Louise Crego, children of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Crego of Moark, were fatally burned Saturday morning when fire destroyed the home of Mrs. Hazel Redman, a neighbor which whom the children were staying.
Ezra Lee Smith, ten year old fourth grade student at Success, lost his life Saturday when he fell from his bicycle while riding on the bridge over the Little Black River just west of Success. Riding the boards of the old bridge, Ezra apparently lost his balance and fell into the swollen waters of Little Black.
The Corning schools are facing a financial crisis as a result of the lack of action of the State's legislature in its recent 60 day session. The crisis has been brought about by the fact that the state is not carrying out its previous commitments to the school district. The Corning district has been promised a total of $111,283 in state funds for operation during the present fiscal year. This amount has now been reduced to $91,678.90.
Construction work has begun preparatory to reducing the curve on the Missouri Pacific track just south of Corning, from a three degree curve to one and one-half degree curve. The track will be moved 55 feet eastward from its present location. The trestle over the Corning Lake will also be moved to conform with the curve when moved. Right of way for the move was obtained from the Wesley McElvain estate. Many persons who visit Corning from time to time and witness the Eagles as they slow down for the curve are somewhat awed at the display of what appears to be fireworks when the brakes are applied at speeds estimated at 80 miles per hour or more, as the crack passenger trains approach the curve. Each wheel appears as a band of sparks.
At a special meeting of the Western Clay County Berry Association held Friday evening at the agriculture building, 163,000 certified Blakemore strawberry plants were distributed to local FFA and 4-H members.
Your local newspaper has added a new Model 31 Linotype typesetting machine, greatly increasing the facilities of the plant.
Equalization plan recommended as means of obtaining funds to operate Clay County schools. 
At a recent meeting of the stockholders of Corning Industrial Building Corporation, a permanent board of directors was elected to serve for one year. The individuals were Ed V. Sheeks, John A. Magee, E. W. Cochran, Loyd Smith and Bryan McCallen. Last Friday the board of directors met and determined the CIBC should promptly proceed with the sale of stock to secure funds with which to construct an industrial building in or near the city of Corning. The building contemplated will contain approximately twenty thousand square feet of floor space and will cost approximately $60,000. If a building is not commenced by July 15, 1951, or by a date thereafter authorized by the stockholders and donors, all stock subscriptions and donations will be refunded.
The Corning Bottling Company was recently sold to Bruce W. Holt and Pat McAdams, both of Jonesboro. J. B. Belford was the former owner. Holt is now enlarging the facilities of the plant. The plant at present is providing employment for seven men and operating two trucks six days weekly.
The new street leading into Wynn Park from Harb Street, three blocks south of Highway 67, is scheduled for completion this week, with gravel to be placed on the east approach to the park. Cinders were used to construct the road leading north from the west end of Harb Street, connecting with the driveway that leads to the new archway entrance facing US 67.
Charles Valentine Beloate, highly respected and honored Corning citizen for nearly 82 years, died at his home here Sunday. He was a charter member of the Methodist Church which was founded in about 1873. Coming to Corning with his parents as a youth, about 1869, he engaged in general merchandise business for the most part of his active years, later working in a bank here until he began traveling as a commission merchant in northeast Arkansas and southeast Missouri.
Employees of the P. L. Oliver Gin here, who have gone to Mission, Texas, where they will operate the Oliver Gin there are: Lowell Poyner, Warren Frakes, Carrel Allen, Cloyd Wright, Henry Sells, J. U. Cockrum, Fred Pierce and Walter Ulmer.
The city council passed on a motion to pave one block in the business section in the near future. The first street to be paved will be one block on West Second Street from Elm Street north to Main Street, Mayor Frank Johnson said early this week. The new 300 gallon capacity asphalt spreader will be put into use for the first time since the city made the purchase.
Western Clay County taxpayers took steps last Friday night to bring about a more equitable method of assessing and collecting real and personal taxes. About 200 district taxpayers met at the Woods' Equipment Company building where a general discussion was held about the proposed plan to get all property owners names on the tax books and equalize all assessments. O. L. Woods, who called the meeting, made an excellent talk. Ed V. Sheeks, who spearheaded the equalization plan in the district several weeks ago, also spoke to the group explaining the merits of an equalization program to provide money needed for our rapid school expansion program. T. G. Bridges, another ardent supporter of our school system for many years, also made an enlightening talk. Dr. J. E. Smith also made an interesting talk at the meeting. His talk dealt with economic operation of schools.
A Chevrolet tractor trailer loaded with 48 head of yearling cattle overturned just west of Corning on US 67 Thursday afternoon killing four and scattering the remaining cattle along the highway.
The State Weight and Permit Station remodeled and enlarged just north of Junction 67-62. The building is to be larger, with larger scales and gas heat when completed.
The Texas-Illinois Gas Pipeline has located one of its inspection offices here, preparatory for the completion of construction work for the 30 inch gas pipeline in this area.
The State Highway Commission awarded contracts totaling more than $4,100,000 Wednesday. Officials said it was the largest construction letting in the history of the state. Contracts for this area were approximately three miles of bituminous surfacing on the Corning-East road, State Highway 62; Interstate Construction Company, Pine Bluff, $33,282.
A new drive-in movie for Corning and surrounding trade area will be opened next spring, two miles north on US 67. Gordon and Ann Hutchins, local moving picture theatre owners, announce this week.
The Brooks Sheeks Company, local building material and Frigidaire appliance dealers, has practically completed moving its display merchandise and office into its new, modern glass fronted brick and tile building located on West Second Street, near Main Street.
High tribute was paid to Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Henry at a dinner held in the parlor of the Methodist Church, Sunday evening, in recognition and appreciation for their 40 years of devoted service to the church and its membership.
Mr. and Mrs. Albert Smith's losses by two fires on their farm west on Highway 67 were considered heavy when one equipment building and thousands of dollars worth of valuable farm equipment were lost and another building in which beans were stored, damaged.
F. L. Pattison, dental student at Loyola University, New Orleans, was here Wednesday making acquaintances with local businessmen. He will receive his dental degree in May and stated that he and Mrs. Pattison plan to move here in June where he will start practicing dentistry.
Construction of a factory building was the principle subject discussed as a joint meeting of the YMCC and the Corning Industrial Development Association, Monday night, at the agriculture building. E. W. Cochran presided as chairman, explaining that a representative of an eastern state garment manufacturer met with a smaller group of local business men last Thursday night. It was indicated that the garment firm plans to locate a group of five plants in this area, giving Corning favorable consideration. C. R. Black, Sr., spoke briefly outlining details type of building and of raising funds for construction costs, stating that the most practical plan would be for the citizens of Corning and other communities who would benefit from the proposed $10,000 a week payroll, to subscribe for about $40,000 to $50,000 then place the balance in some form of loan. Black said that Corning needs such a payroll, but warned against short term contracts, stressing the need for a solid front, so far as cooperation of local citizens is concerned, in making the payroll plan a success.
Owen Doris, age 50, Kennett, timber worker was fatally injured Tuesday afternoon while cutting timber about one half mile east of Long Lake, southeast of Corning. A tree they were falling struck a branch of another tree causing it to change its course to strike him on the head.
Government engineers from the War Department offices were in Corning Tuesday making preparation for repairing the levee running parallel with Black River from US 62 North to about one and one-half miles southeast of Moark. There are two points on the levee that are a constant threat to thousands of acres of land east of the levee during high water seasons, one just southeast of Moark and the other on the W. W. Fitzgerald farm, just north on Highway 62.
Construction work has started on a building program to enlarge the Corning Hospital from its present 21 rooms and 28 beds to 65 rooms and 125 beds. The building, when completed, will be constructed in a T-shaped structure with the main entrance and ambulance entrance facing south onto Main Street and will cover most of the square block on which the present hospital buildings are now located. Dr. J. S. Schirmer, who owns and operates the hospital, in financing the building program which will cost approximately $80,000.
A delegation of citizens from Corning, Knobel, Peach Orchard, and Delaplaine met with Greene County citizens at the courthouse in Paragould, Tuesday night, for the purpose of planning a campaign for the completion of State Highway No. 1 from Paragould to Corning.
The largest vote ever polled in a school election here and over the school district was polled in the annual school election Tuesday. Total for Kilgore township was 482, with 801 for the district total. Two members were elected to the Corning Board of Education. They are: Dan Harold of Corning who ran unopposed, after the resignation of L. G. Black the latter part of last week, for a regular five year term. Loyd Brown of Success won a four year unexpired term over Fred Ahrent. Both winners were sponsored by the Western Clay Taxpayers Association, headed by O. L. Woods. The taxpayers association headed by O. L. Woods, conducted the campaign, opposing the policies and practices of the present board of education. The 33 mill tax met with opposition. 
Brack Smith served as deputy sheriff this week during regular Deputy Bill Seagraves' few days leave from his duties while hunting and fishing on Black River.
The 21 mile strip of Highway No. 1-W not scheduled for black topping at the present time, will definitely be programmed under the State's $80 million road program, Governor McMath told the crowd of about 2,500 Clay and Greene County citizens who attended the Highway 1-W Association meeting and barbecue at Oak Grove School grounds north of Paragould last Friday afternoon.
The newest eating establishment here, The Whiteway Drive-in and Cafe, was opened on US 67 West last weekend, featuring hickory barbecued meats and a full menu of their foods. The Whiteway was recently constructed one block west of the junction with ample parking space for curb service. Mr. and Mrs. Walter Baker are owners and operators.
Lynn Edwards of Doniphan has assumed management of the Black Mortuary and the Peoples Consolidated Burial Association here.

1952
Bank deposits in the Western District are now at an all time high, with total deposits of $3,314,441.77 shown in the Corning Bank's statement of December 31, 1951, published in this issue of the Courier. The increase in deposits at that time show an increase of almost three quarters of a million dollars more than a year ago, E. Vandover, president of the bank said, indicating that the district is in excellent financial conditions. Lowest cash deposits during the depression days were approximately $250,000.
J. A. Lillard, former field manager of the Farmers Co-op Electric Corporation at Newport, has been appointed as resident manager of the Clay County Electric Cooperative, Corning. He has been acting manager for the past several weeks.
Fain White, the new manager of the Knobel Milling Company, expects to move his family here from Poplar Bluff within the next week or two. The Milling Company recently was sold to P. B. Forbes, a Poplar Bluff feed dealer, by Buford Odom and son Jim Odom. The Buford Odoms plan to move to Arizona next month.
Two youths are being held in the county jail here on a charge of felony, resulting from passing a blank check on Bill McElhaney, blind local pool room operator. They are Johnny Crutchfield and Harry Watson, both in their 20s.
At a meeting of the Corning Industrial Development Association held on Monday evening at the high school cafeteria building, a committee was appointed to collaborate with and aid a similar committee of the Western Clay County Berry Association in the erection of a sizable market shed to facilitate the assemblage and consignment of farm products and strawberries. While an exact location was not immediately determined upon, it was decided that the local place for such a facility was on US Highway 67 in or near Corning since the bulk of farm produce is now moved by truck. The estimated cost of a shed with graveling of driveways and parking areas is $2,000. Harold Riggan and John Magee were named as representatives of the joint committees to solicit funds for the erection of the market building CIDA. President E. W. Cochran reported that quite a number of farmers are planning to raise turkeys on a large scale this season.
The third attempt by an arsonist to destroy the farm buildings owned by Albert Smith, prominent district farm operator six miles west of Corning, was successful Saturday night. Two previous attempts occurred December 11, when several thousand dollars in expensive farm machinery was burned, one barn lost and one end of a grain building burned out with a loss of a quantity of grain. Saturday night's fire, which happened at about seven o'clock, like the December 11th fire, was started by fuel oil placed on scattered [hay] in the buildings and from description by a witness, ignited simultaneously. Total damages from the fire bug's work is estimated at about $14,000.
The grand jury was in session Monday, during the term of criminal division of Clay County Circuit Court, for the Western District with Judge Charles Light, presiding. In an intensified investigation of Corning School District's financial records, a no true bill of indictment resulted. The investigation by grand jury was made by the request of local citizens who charged mishandling of school funds. Jurisdiction of the grand jury is limited, by law, to one year prior of its session. School officials were questioned from three o'clock Monday afternoon until eight that night by the grand jury and District Prosecuting Attorney Charles Partlow of Blytheville. All phases of the school's operations included purchases and other financial transactions and the school's books were examined.
At ceremonies in the studio radio station KNEA, Jonesboro, Marine Corporal Sterling L. Garrett, son of Mrs. Edna Maddox of Corning, was presented with the Silver Star medal for action against the enemy in the present conflict in Korea.
The Western Clay County Taxpayers Association met Friday night, January 18, with a good representation of ladies from over the Western District as guests. O. L. Woods, who presided over the meeting, made a very interesting talk on "Freedom of the Individual."
Clarence Elmer Lindsey, age 70, member of one of the few remaining pioneer northeast Arkansas families, died Sunday night at his home here, of a heart ailment. He retired from the general mercantile business which he operated for about a half century on Second Street here in 1937. Since that time he operated a popcorn concession near and in his former location, keeping in contact daily with his many friends and admirers. During his long residency in Corning, he also served as city recorder and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He was married to the former Miss Emma Jane Woodall, who preceded him in death 16 years ago. They resided on the corner of Third and Elm Streets many years and were familiarly known as Aunt Jane and Uncle Clarence. He was widely known in this trade area, having come to Corning in 1886 from Vernon County, Mo., with his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. I. M. Lindsey. He was one of 11 children who made the trip here in three covered wagons, bringing 14 draft horses with them. Unable to find a vacant house, the family lived in a tent near Corning Lake for a time. His father later became deputy sheriff and constable.
The proposed Water Valley Dam near Pocahontas has created considerable interest there in the past few weeks. Proponents and opponents of the $25,720,000 federal power flood control project, faced each other at public meetings in the new courthouse Monday night.
Over 100 friends and relatives gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Briney east of Moark, Sunday, to help him celebrate his 17th birthday. He was 72 on the 29th of February and is one of those who may celebrate their birth anniversary every four years-on leap years.
Dr. and Mrs. G. G. Dickerson and children, Dick 15, Sherry 8 and Kay 2 years, arrived in Corning Friday from their former home DeQueen. Dr. Dickerson has opened a dental office here in the State Theatre building formerly occupied by Dr. J. S. Shollenberger, now of Ozark, Missouri.
Ralph J. Howard has been employed as a Veterans Agriculture instructor to replace Dan Lynch who resigned to go into the farm implement business.
The hottest contested school election probably in the history of Corning will be held here Saturday with four candidates vying for two vacancies, one district and one county office. They are M. G. Hoffman and Hubert Brown, of Datto, for member of the Corning School Board to fill a regular five year term. J. E. Ballenger is retiring member. For county school board member, O. L. Woods is opposing J. M. Oliver for a three year, unexpired term of G. A. Lamb who is now a resident of Lakeland, Florida. Also being voted on is a 33 mill tax, of which 19 mills is for maintenance and operations of schools and 14 mills for retiring existing indebtedness as evidenced by bonds previously voted. Campaigners are working over the district both day and night.
A record vote was polled in the district's school election last Saturday, with an unofficial count of 1,090, to elect M. G. Hoffman as member of the Board of Education for the Corning School District and J. M. Oliver as member of the County Board of Education.
An invitation for the first commencement for Corning Public Schools has turned up and in a very good state of preservation. The invitation was printed by The Courier 51 years ago. Some of the type used in the invitation is still in our type cases and used occasionally. The printing, in blue ink, appears as clearly as if it were printed only a few days ago. C. R. Black, a member of the class, received the invitation from another member, B. R. Jenkins of Covington, Okla. Other members of the class were: Perry Simpson, Estella Black, R. C. Stewart, John Crabtree, Gussie Reed, F. H. Dickson, Bessie Barnhill. School board members were Dr. J. D. Dickinson, president; Dr. A. B. McKinney, treasurer and J. W. Harb, secretary. Teachers were W. T. Stephens, principal; J. T. Black, Mrs. W. T. Stephens, D. A. Seibert and Miss Estella Webb.
The Corning Post Office will soon be moved into the Arnold Building on Second Street, between rooms occupied by the Western Auto Associate Store and the H and H Auto Parts. A ten year lease has been signed by the Post Office Department, J. F. Arnold., owner of the building, said.
Members of the First Baptist Church will witness the burning of the church mortgage Sunday evening, April 6, at 7:30, climaxing the program dedicating the church building. The former pastor, Rev. L. C. Tedford, now of Little Rock, will preach at the morning services beginning at eleven o'clock. The pastor, Dr. L. B. Golden, urges all members to attend and bring friends to celebrate the occasion.
Brooks Sheeks, local lumber man, in a talk at Tuesday night's Lion Club meeting, told that Corning's water supply is rapidly diminishing and will probably be inadequate during the dry summer months when use is stepped up far greater than in other seasons. Speaking as a citizen and Lion Club member, and not as a member of the Water Commission, he presented the condition of the Water District as he saw it, a serious threat to the welfare and health of the entire population within the bounds of the district. The problem of an inadequate water supply, according to the local lumber men, is due to the demand by some 450 units or connections to mains, using all of the 300 gallons being pumped every minute from to 40 foot deep well, the pump having to run constantly to keep up with the water demand. No surplus can be accumulated on the round-the-clock basis. This is due to two factors, increased number of connections and less water in the well than there was when first put to use. The 800 gallon per minute pump on a 120 foot deep well stands idly by, as an emergency pump, and can pump more than the necessary water needed for the city use, but it cannot be satisfactorily used since the water has a high iron content, is extra hard and has an odor that renders it unpalatable. To use this water, Sheeks, explained a water treating plant would have to be installed, which he estimated, would cost about $35,000. Another improvement that will eventually have to be made, he cited, is the sewage discharge south of the south end of Fourth Street. A lawsuit is now pending demanding that the sewage disposal be diverted from property owned by Gus Mills. A sewage treatment plant, Sheeks said, would cost from $75,000 to $85,000. As an alternate plan, the present sewage outlet could be tiled about 2,000 feet, into Western Clay Drainage Ditch at a cost of from $10,000 to $12,000. The district at present has outstanding bonds amounting to $32,500, which pays out in 1957. This amount remains from the original $103,000 bond issue of 1926 when the water and sewer districts were organized and the systems constructed. There has never been a sewage fee here, making necessary the payment of operation and sewer extension expense from other funds. Water commissioners are C. R. Black, Walter Hastings and Brooks Sheeks.
Members of the C.H.S. graduating class, 1952: Wilton Gambill, Carlene Barrow, Weldon Rapert, Zena Snodgrass, Ollie Townsend, Worlene Finley, Donald Roberson, Jackie Ward, Billy Gene Wright, Lou Erma Rapert, Jessie Phelan, Carolyn Hays, Melvieda Wilson, Harold Hogard, Betty White, Frank Johnson, Jr., Joann Alexander, Dale Ahrent, Josephine Simpson, Verle Winningham, Jimmie Williams, Rodney Watson, Shirley Cole, Glendel Smith, Betty Joe McElvain, Walter Ulmer, Joyce Collins, Lariel Avery, William Richardson, Harvey Brown, Norma Jean Hartwig, Aubrey Lunsford, Claudia Cate, E. W. Onstead, Elaine Hogard, Joe Witcher, Duane Luter, Jacqueline Ward and Johnny Rawlings. 
Harold Dean Robbins, age 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Robbins, Route Two, Malden high school junior, drowned in Corning Lake at about 5:30 Tuesday evening. He had been fishing with a group of other 4-H Club students on the lake, using the McElvain cabin as headquarters.
A strange, bright object in the sky was observed over Corning late last Friday afternoon by at least six persons. It evidently was the same one seen over North Little Rock or one of the same description. Mrs. Warren Cooper reports having observed a comet like object, illuminated with extremely bright red lighting. It's tail, she said, was white and short. It was moving southeast, at about five o'clock and quickly disappeared.
Bland F. Bryant, postmaster at Success for over 18 years, was taken into custody last Thursday and held at Jonesboro until Tuesday, on a charge of embezzlement of postal funds. He was released on $5,000 bond Tuesday. The complaint, filed by the United States Post Office Inspector H. W. Start, of St. Louis, declared that over $13,000 in postal and savings funds were converted to Bryant's use.
The work of digging the foundation for the new Methodist parsonage was begun last Wednesday morning under the direction of A. W. Ahrent. The parsonage, to be located on the lot just west of the church, will have six rooms, two baths and attached garage. It will be of frame construction and asbestos siding.
Fire has destroyed one of Corning's most familiar landmarks, the former residence of the late Dr. and Mrs. A. R. Simpson, owned since 1947 by Mrs. A. D. Cox. The house had quite a historic background as far as Corning is concerned. It was first built in 1892 as, a three room structure by the doctor, who was one of Corning's first medical men. The original kitchen (with an extension recently added by Mrs. Cox) is part of what is left. In later years (1908) after some 16 years practicing medicine here, Dr. Simpson had prospered and rebuilt the small dwelling into one of the most modern homes (at that time) in this part of the state. More rooms were added, also a second floor, basement, hot water heat, with large white colonnades gracing the front of the house. The colonnades were a part of a carload shipped here the year before when the late Ed V. Sheeks remodeled the present colonial home of his son, Ed V. Sheeks and family, across the street to the south. Mrs. Cox purchased the Simpson residence from Mrs. Perry Simpson, wife of the late Mr. Simpson, a son of Dr. and Mrs. Simpson, in 1947.
At least five persons in Corning are taking rabies vaccinations after being bitten by dogs thought to be infected with rabies. Mayor Frank Johnson, in declaring a state of emergency in order to protect all persons from danger of being bitten by an infected dog, has issued a warning that all dogs roaming the streets between November 20 and November 27, inclusive, are subject to destruction by gun shot.
An ordinance was approved and passed last Wednesday by the city council, providing for the establishment of a police court for Corning. This will be the first occasion for such a court to exist here, replacing the justice of the peace courts of years past. A judge, appointed by the mayor, will preside over the court, with the same power as that of the justice of the peace, in rendering verdicts and decisions pertaining to civil and criminal matters or offenses. Fees, the same as those collected by the mayor or justices, will be assessed offenders coming before the court of the police judge.
The new 67 Drive-In Theatre, two miles north, on US 67, will be opened in about two weeks, providing rains do not further delay the construction workers.
Mayor Frank Johnson has appointed W. M. Wisdom, local justice of the peace, as city Police Court Judge, who will hear all the cases previously tried in the mayor's court.
It is a rare occasion to find an old-timer who remembers Corning in the 70's, 80's and 90's since very few historical records of that time have been written. Many accounts have been passed on throughout the years, about the days when Corning was without law and order, except by the law of that day-the Ku-Klux. We have heard of the days when bad men roamed the area and descriptions of Corning when hearsay gave it a hard boiled reputation, backed up by a community composed mostly of saloons, boarding houses, a few hotels, stores and homes. Uncle Tom Elliott gets quite a kick in describing those days some 50 to 75 years ago, with faculties that are remarkable for a man his age. As best he remembers, Uncle Tom unfolds his recollection of the past as follows: He was born on September 21, 1869, and celebrated his 83rd birthday this year. In 1867 his father bought a farm near Corning and the family moved from their home in Jasper County, Illinois, to the farm where Mr. Elliott still lives. The following summer the elder Elliott died, and his mother was left to care for the family. With the exception of a few years when his mother owned and operated a boarding house in town, Uncle Tom has spent 76 years living on his farm about one mile north of Corning near the Missouri Pacific tracks, where he made 55 consecutive crops before retiring a few years ago. In 1914 he married the former Clara Curry, who had been his schoolmate in Illinois. The Curry family moved here in 1913 when Mrs. Elliott was 26. They lived just north of the Corning schoolhouse, across the street from where the home economics cottage now stands. Mrs. Elliott still owns the property. Both fathers of Mr. and Mrs. Elliott served for the North in the Civil War. Uncle Tom's son by an earlier marriage was one of the first of the Corning citizens to enlist in the armed forces when this country entered World War One, serving France. When Mr. Elliott came to Corning, the settlement consisted of a boxcar moved from the narrow-track Cairo and Fulton railroad, which served as depot, plus a few saloons, stores, boarding houses and dwelling houses scattered along the tracks. One of the larger stores was owned by a Mr. Hecht, described by Uncle Tom as boss of the local Ku-Klux and influential man in northeast Arkansas. In those days the town was called Hecht City, named after the aforementioned Mr. Hecht. Corning, or Hecht City, was second to Moark as the trading center of the area, since Moark was an important link in the railroad. The large general store owned by Mr. Hecht was at the present location of McCauley's Store. In those days many of the farmers still used oxen instead of horses to do their work, because they worked better in the mud and mire and all planting was done by hand. Much of the land was still in the shade of the abounding forests and could be bought for fifty cents per acre. Industry in the town consisted for the most part of a hardwood factory owned by a Mr. Weindel, and a few sawmills. Many of the workers were a class of rough, unmarried men, who lived in Corning's several thriving boarding houses. It was these men who helped give Corning a reputation as a wild town. The residential section of Corning was built along the south end of First Street. As the town grew and more houses were built farther west of the tracks, a block was left vacant in order to have space for a courthouse, in case Corning should be selected as the site for a county seat. The space was used years later when Corning's courthouse was built. In the earlier days of the town, although it was generally considered a safe place to live, there was occasionally some cause to take action against the evil doers of the area. The Ku Klux Klan was a strong organization in those days and they dealt justice swiftly as they saw fit. Mr. Elliott was a spectator at two hangings conducted by the Ku Klux Klan. One of the men to be hanged rode to his scaffold on top of a coffin singing church hymns. Mr. Kilgore, the man for whom his township was named, was shot in the back through a saloon window and his murderer was never found. This murder was committed a few feet southeast of the Crystal Drug Store site.
As Corning and the old narrow-gauge railroad gave way to the Iron Mountain, several hotels were built in Corning and catered to the patronage of traveling men, those whose travels led them to Corning. Two of the larger hotels were the St. James and the Green, both of which stood for several years until they were burned in the Roaring Twenties. Corning still maintained a goodly number of saloons, some of which were well known over northeast Arkansas and southeast Missouri. Among them were Irish Pat Martin's and Cassidy's, the scene of the Kilgore shooting.
According to Elliott, the first brick structure to be built in Corning was the building built by G. B. Oliver and still stands about one block north of the courthouse. The first automobile was bought in 1909 by W. D. Bennett who operated a store at the location now occupied by the M and O Seed Company.
Corning's expansion after the turn of the century moved from the courthouse north, Bishop's wagon and coffin shop was located where the Rhea Hardware building now stands. Saloon stood at the present Black Lumber shed location. J. M. Hawks' store was where the Ben Franklin Store now stands, and the Green, St. James, Carter and Nabor's Hotels were grouped at the north end of the First Street.
In 1920 the entire block with the exception of the Crystal Drug Store building, from the Highway to Main Street, between Second and Third Streets, was destroyed by fire.
The Rev. Andy Heskett of Celina, Tenn., who has been called to fill the pastorate at the First Baptist Church, arrived here Tuesday evening. He was accompanied by Mrs. Heskett and will fill the vacancy left by Dr. L B. Golden who resigned August 1.
The Irby Funeral Service, Burial Association and real estate were sold last Friday to Leslie Russell and Richard O. Ermert. Russell is proprietor of the Russell Burial Association and the Russell Mortuary here. Ermert has been manager of the Irby Service for nearly six years. Both are popular young, local businessmen.
Dedication services for the French Grove Methodist Church will be held Saturday morning, November 29. Bishop Paul E. Martin, Bishop of the Arkansas-Louisiana area, will preach the dedication sermon. The church, which is located one and one-half miles north of Hickoria, was built in the spring of 1950. The first service was held June 4th, before completion. The first members were Mr. and Mrs. George French and Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Clarkson. There are now 23 members with Sunday School attendance averaging 40 the past two and one-half years.
The road off of South First Street, known as the Clyde Taylor Road, has been completed. The road was started five years ago by the people living in the area, the County Judge T. A. French and our road overseer John Joyner. Out of seven and three-fourths miles, six miles of right of way had to be cut and dynamited, several fills had to be made with a dragline and bulldozer. The road cost about 25 thousand dollars, including the gravel hauling and building of the dump.
Gordon Graber, age 72, local merchant since 1915, died suddenly at his home at 5:45 Tuesday evening, after a brief illness. Born in Russia, Mr. Graber came to America in 1900. He operated his own mercantile business on the present site of the Rhea Hardware store building. The Graber store prospered under his efficient management for many years, and it was moved into the present Graber building south of The Corning Bank.
Plans are well underway for the opening of the Teen Town Club before the Yule holidays. The youth club will be located in the former Sunshine Cafe building, the equipment having been purchased last week.
Graveling of the road leading south from Highway 62 one-half mile east of Corning to the levee south of Kelley Hole on Black River was completed Wednesday. This road improvement was made possible by funds paid by residents in that area and local citizens and matched by the county.
A real live black bear was seen near Black River east of Moark recently by J. R. (Uncle Jim) Briney.
The Woods' Mercantile Company grocery department has been sold to Norace Adams, who actively took over its operation the latter part of last week.
The Blackwood and Bone Hardware Store will open here about January 1 in the present location of the Rhea Hardware and Furniture. The remaining stock and fixtures of the Rhea store, after a clearance sale of several weeks duration, will be sold to Mack Blackwood, who operates the Blackwood Store here, and B. D. Bone, farm implement sales representative, of Paragould.
Serving continuously as general superintendent of First Christian Church Sunday School for 25 years, is the record recently set by Brooks Sheeks. Sheeks took office October 1, 1928 succeeding S. P. Lindsey and, until his retirement last September 30, was the fourth superintendent to serve in more than 60 years of the church's history. The newly elected superintendent, is Robert E. Linder.
Nearly 1,000 feet of water mains were constructed in west Corning recently, greatly increasing the water pressure and reducing fire hazards. Six hundred feet of four-inch mains replaced two-inch pipes on Polk Avenue, extending west from Polk Avenue, 350 feet of two-inches from Main Street north across Highway 67 to Clark's Tourist Court, where a fire hydrant was installed. Extending west from Polk Avenue, 350 feet of two-inch pipes were laid to the Scrivner property west of the Corning Implement Company.
Over $1,000 worth of truck and auto tires stolen here were recovered last Saturday by Clay County Sheriff Ghuyrane Woolk and his Western District deputy, Bill Seagraves. Taken into custody in connection with the thefts were Millard Tripp of Dexter, Lawrence Tripp of Van Buren, Mo., Lyman Pemberton of Corning, Manuel Grider of Neelyville and I. B. Laroe of Success. Henry Hahn, employee of the Clark Pontiac Co. here notified Deputy Seagraves, Friday night, that two truck tires had been stolen.
A new implement building will be constructed one mile west of Junction 67-62 in the near future. H. A. (Red) Smith, local Ford Tractor dealer, will build the building.
Saniford Franklin Grayson, age 67, died suddenly of cerebral hemorrhage Thursday evening at his farm home on Route One, Corning. In 1900 he became a member of the local Methodist Church. He was a member of the first graduating class of Corning High School in 1903 and a member of the Corning National Guard. After graduating from school he worked at Oliver and Company store and Sheeks-Stevens Mercantile Company, later engaging in farming.
Dr. F. L. Pattison, a recent graduate from the Loyola College of Dentistry, New Orleans, is now practicing dentistry in the office formerly occupied by Dr. G. G. Dickinson, in the State Theatre building.
It was a close race but the stork won, and the baby, a girl, entered this world in a Russell ambulance near Westwood Country Club, about six miles this side of Poplar Bluff, at 7:30 last Friday evening. Mrs. Paul Miller, who resides about one and one-half miles northwest of Corning, accompanied by her husband's aunt, Mrs. John Carter, with Leslie Russell, driving his ambulance, attempted to reach the Poplar Bluff Hospital before Mrs. Miller gave birth to the new daughter, but lost by only about ten minutes.
The New Home Methodist Church was established with 13 members. Methodism was first brought to the community by Brother Blevins and Brother Allbright of the Corning Methodist Church. Brother Wilcoxon, also pastor at Corning followed and services were held in the Blue School House. But this time we were having too many in Sunday School every Sunday so we told him we wanted him to help us build a church. T. W. Wynn of Corning gave us [the land?] and after several names were suggested, the New Home Methodist Church was suggested by Mr. Eaker of Williams community, now of Harvell. The name was voted in and our church plans progressed. Fred Kimball and Ovid Ward were appointed on the building committee. Mrs. Orpha Kimball and Mrs. J. W. Wells were in charge of raising the money to build the church. We had food sales, a pie and box supper with a quilt given away to the prettiest girl at which we made $50. The quilt was made by the Ladies Aid. The Women's Society of Christian Service of the Corning Church gave a big dinner for us, with our own Ladies Aid furnishing the dressed chickens, cream, eggs and butter. The Corning Ladies cooked and served the dinner. Brother Wilcoxon sold the tickets and a good sum was made for our church building. The Methodist conference sent us a donation of money, and in 1935 work was started on our church.
When it was finished E. L. Esmon built the altar and helped in other ways for which we were grateful. Brother Few came and was also a great help to us in our church. It was not until Brother S. O. Patty came to preach that our Sunday School was started again. He came out every Sunday morning and acted as superintendent, teaching the Bible class and preaching twice each month. During his stay in Corning we had one of the best Christmas programs and the largest tree we have ever had. One of our most faithful members, O. W. Jackson, drove his truck 50 miles to get the Yule tree. Next to come was Brother A. W. Harris who has also worked with us. He appointed Don Harold as superintendent and our church has really grown. We have painted the building and built a new porch. We wanted to seal it inside with wall board so Don said he would see that we got the wall board. He did, for he bought it and paid for it himself. Roy and Bill Smalley, Jack Eaker, Bill Ponds, Ben Roberts, Jerald Jackson, Don Harold, Freddie Harold, O. W. Jackson, Fred Wright, Bud Wright, Andy Skillern, Andrew Prince, Loren Allen, Howard Deering and "Hap" Robinson all did the work of sealing it and staining the woodwork. Mr. and Mrs. Lem Scrivner donated the material for our concrete walks with the men of the church doing the construction work. We also have the bell from the Blue School donated by E. W. Cochran and James Rhodes and put up by donated work. Officers and teachers now are as follows: O. W. Jackson, secretary-treasurer and Mrs. Mary Jackson and Mrs. Edna Allen, junior teachers; Mrs. Louise Eaker and Mrs. Orpha Kimball, primary class teachers; Sharon Harold, secretary of the Sunday School and Mrs. L. A. Scrivner, pianist.
A construction office for the Arkansas Highway Department is being moved here from Tryonza the middle of next week, according to Paul Stephens, resident engineer, who will supervise base, grade and drainage construction on Highways 62 and 90. The office will be located across Second Street from the Country Store.
Local merchants employed the service of a crop dusting airplane last Saturday for an experiment, often employed in many localities over the nation to cause rainfall, by dropping crushed ice from a crop dusting airplane. The plane, hired from a crop dusting service at Blytheville, was engaged to arrive here at 4:30, when a far concentration of what appeared to be rain clouds were overcast in the vicinity of Corning. Due to some changes in flying equipment for the job, and by the time dry ice arrived from Jonesboro and had been crushed and loaded, the sky had cleared considerably. However, the mission for rain was carried out even though clouds to the northwest were diminishing somewhat, but look fairly favorable to the pilot. After two wide circles around Corning the plane disappeared into the clouds. Whether or not the mission was successful, it was not certain, as the clouds soon continued north and east out of sight. Reports came that rain fell southeast of Poplar Bluff early Saturday night. A second attempt was made Monday afternoon by the same plane, however, like the first, no definite results were reported.
Atty. E. L. Holloway, who moved to Russellville from Corning in May, 1945, returned to Corning as his permanent home and place of practice on July 15 and opened his office on July 28.
A lone masked bandit robbed the Farmers and Merchants Bank at Reyno of $17,414 at 8:45 Wednesday morning and left town without anyone knowing of his bold deed except Glenn Brown, vice president, a customer, R. R. Athy, and Otistean Ahrent, assistant cashier. All were left locked in the bank vault after the bandit threatened them with their lives.
Highway construction which will total $690,860 is now underway in Clay and Greene counties, according to Paul Stephens, field engineer for the Arkansas Highway Department, who has moved his family to Corning and opened a field engineer's office here. Three projects are included at the present in the local improvements. They are: Highway 62 from Pollard to Corning 'Y', 15.1 miles; Highway 90 from Rector to Boydsville, 8.8 miles and Highway 34 to the Stonewall road near the Greene-Clay County line. Improvements on Highway 62, now under contract include grading, drainage and base, seven new concrete bridges with steel rails. Contractors are D. B. Hill of Little Rock and S. M. Dickson of Warren for $472,460 Earthwork should be done in about three months, Stephens said, with asphalt paving to follow next summer.
The Corning Board of Education, at a meeting held August 22, decided to increase the charges in all cafeterias to 20 cents for children in grades one, two, and three; and 25 cents for children in grades four through 12. The former charges, which have been in effect since the cafeterias were started in the Corning District, were 15 and 20 cents.
Thomas Brothers of Corning were low bidders for the levee work to be done immediately on Black River in the development of the new 10,000 acre public shooting grounds in the Little River Game Reserve near Brookings. Work began last Saturday.
Norman Lee Butler, age 17, died Friday night in the Baptist Hospital, Memphis, from a crushed skull he received when a car under which he was working at his home one mile north of Corning, fell from a jack. The accident occurred the previous Saturday morning.
A service of installation for the new minister of First Christian Church, Lester M. Vickford, has been planned for this Monday evening.
A. L. Drilling's new self service variety store opens Saturday in the location formerly occupied by the Post Office.
Herschel Talkington, age 52, local farm operator, was killed instantly when his 1949 Plymouth sedan crashed head on into a tractor-trailer truck four miles north of Corning on US 67 at about eight o'clock Monday night.
N. N. Steinberg will open his Bargain Center three doors south of the Post Office Saturday morning.
E. Button, well-known local resident, lost his right leg, just below the knee, when his trousers became entangled with the mechanism of a power take off machine near here Sunday. He was working at the Harold Brothers' rice farm north of Corning when the accident happened.
Three million, six hundred forty thousand, six hundred twenty seven dollars and sixty one cents on deposit at the Corning Bank, as of October 18 establishes an all time record of cash deposits according to E. Vandover, president of the local banking institution.
Corning's city election was rather a quiet one with only one contested office, that of city marshal. D. A. Snider was reelected, receiving 444 votes over his opponent Sol Lester, who received 168 votes. The most votes polled were for Mayor Frank Johnson who was complimented with 562 votes. City officials, all reelected except A. L. Drilling, a new alderman, are now as follows: Mayor, Frank Johnson; recorder, Leslie Russell; treasurer, L. F. Cochran; city attorney, Bryan McCallen; city marshal, D. A. Snider; aldermen, Ed C. Eldracker, Thomas George, A. W. Ahrent and A. L. Drilling.