Saturday was the first day of winter and the shortest day of the year. Have you noticed the days getting any longer yet?

Word has been received that former Hiwasse/Gravette resident Eugene Kerr passed away in Lubbock, Texas, on Saturday, Dec. 14. Eugene was in the last class to graduate from Hiwasse High School.

Sympathy is extended to the family of Beth Austin for their loss. Her funeral was graveside at Mount Pleasant Cemetery on Sunday afternoon.

Rick Banks is undergoing more testing.

Bill Habermehl was able to be at church Sunday morning.

Those having lunch with Lofty and DaleLynn Carrier on Sunday were Mr. and Mrs. Ward Carrier, Mr. and Mrs. Brian Carrier, Mr. and Mrs Skylar Carrier, Gabe Carrier and myself.

Novella Carlton went shopping on Saturday with her daughter Lisa and granddaughter Autumn, then the rest of the family met them and they all ate out together.

Kolton Hamilton is on leave from the Navy to spend the holidays with his family before reporting to Groton, Conn., to attend submarine school.

Von Philpott passed away this week. He was known in the area. His funeral was on Monday.

Remember all our sick and those who have lost loved ones in your prayers.

Dec. 25 -- Merry Christmas to all. Wind today brings a fruitful year.