eType Editor

eType Editor

Remote Work

This has been a topic in the news lately, and since it affects my family and also Searcy County, I thought I might throw some thoughts around. The president (and before him, Elon Musk at Twitter- now X) have brought all the federal employees in-house to work rather than working from home. The purpose is, as I understand it, two-fold. One, they don’t believe people are as productive working from home. Two, they would like to dislodge federal workers from some cushy contracts that can’t be undone, forcing the federal workforce down and hopefully, streamlining government efficiencies and budget.

PAUL WATERS

Paul “Pauly” David Waters, 66, of Omaha, Ark., passed away on January 22, 2025, at his home. He was born on February 28, 1958, in Kansas City, Mo. Condolences may be left at Diamond State Cremation.

Top Scams to Watch Out for This Tax Season

The days of filing paper tax returns are gone, and criminals are taking advantage. With taxpayers managing their sensitive information online, thieves are finding new ways to scam victims. In 2023 alone, the IRS reported $5.5 billion lost to tax fraud schemes. And the increased prevalence of artificial intelligence means tax scams this year will likely be more sophisticated than ever.

St. Joe News

I’m sure you have heard of the passing of James Drewry in his home during the snow weekend. James was a good friend and a neighbor and will be missed by those who knew him. I will miss the phone calls with news of his job, friends, and his dog Wayland. He and Wayland were always cooking up something good to eat, and passing on recipes of the same. James was a good cook, creating some wonderful eats which he shared with those he likes. Terry told me about him bringing things to Haskel’s for her, and he had brought things at different times for me while I was there. Again, James was a wonderful cook. I remember him bringing Wayland into the store to introduce him to me when Wayland was just a pup. Quite the adorable little guy and grew up to be the best friend in the world to James. I’ll sure miss him calling, I’ll miss running into him in town, I’ll just miss him. He had many friends and they will miss him also. I’m just glad I knew him.

REV. JIMMY DWIGHT DUNCAN

Rev. Jimmy Dwight Duncan, 64, of Danville, Ark., passed peacefully on January 23, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at home. Beloved husband, father, poppy and pastor, Jim lived a rich life of service. Known for his genuine kindness, his willingness to help regardless of the task or time and his gentle compassion, Jim loved with his whole heart. He was always there with a ready smile, a prayer, and a helping hand. Born on January 12, 1961, in Marshall, Ark., to James and Nina Duncan, Jim developed a love for hunting, fishing and cars at an early age. On January 31, 1981, he married the love of his life, Teresa Emerson Duncan. On September 6, 1982, his pride and joy, Shalisha Duncan Carroll, was born. In the early days of their marriage, Jim worked as a drywall finisher and established a career as a journeyman meat cutter. His greatest focus was his family and his church where he served in any capacity needed. From Arkansas to California, Kansas and Oklahoma, their home was always filled with young people, friends and music. Jim was an accomplished guitar/bass player and musician/singer extraordinaire. His idea of relaxing was landscaping his entire yard which he always kept immaculate and his greatest joy in life was time spent with his precious grand babies. Sharaya and Mallorie Carroll. For the last 21 years Jim has served as pastor for Abundant Live UPC in Danville where he poured himself into loving and ministering to his congregation and his community. He is preceded in death by his father, James Duncan, and his brother, Bobby Duncan. Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Teresa Duncan; daughter, Shalisha and Rev. Travis Carroll; mother, Nina Castleman Duncan; father- and motherinlaw, Rev. Jesse and LaDoyne Emerson; brother, Ricky and Elisha Duncan; sister, Tonya and Rev. Gary Sanders; brother-in-law, Rev. Jay and Deana Emerson; sister- in- law, DeOnna and Calvin Tichy; granddaughters, Sharaya and Mallorie Carroll. Funeral service was 2 p.m., Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Abundant Life Church with Bishop Bill Thomas officiating. Visitation was 12 to 2 p.m. Saturday before service at the church. Burial was at Russell Cemetery. A special thanks to Gentiva Hospice for their loving care and the rest of his care team: Judy Marie Jones, Sonya Avalos, David Tolentino, and Justin Vaughn Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville.

The Cozyhome Connection

Well, it sure has been an eventful beginning to 2025! Between the really deep snow that hung on for days and the arctic air that keeps hammering us, I’m beyond ready for spring to happen! The Cozahome Church parking lot was a sheet of ice, so services that Sunday were cancelled and all members encouraged to stay home and safe. I hope you and your loved ones have been safe, well and happy. We’re happy to report that our resident ‘outstanding neighbor’ – Devin Fryar, took his own time and equipment to blade off that big snow and spread salt in an effort to ensure we get to meet together this coming Sunday. Just another example of what makes the Cozahome community one to be emulated!