Spring 2012 Ranch Report Now Available!
04/13/2012
Click the image below to download the Spring 2012 Ranch Report (PDF).


A recent visit to the beautiful hills surrounding Mountain View led me to the home of long-time Ranch supporters Shirley and Hannah Dyke, who reside south of town approximately six miles off of a beautiful country road.
For our visit, the Dykes had something they were indeed excited to show me. They are constantly improving and upgrading much of their land and buildings. Recently, they purchased a property adjoining their residence and after nearly a year of diligent work, they have completed the entire restoration of a second “home” for the benefit of the Ranch children, our house parents, and even the Ranch Boy Scout Troop to potentially use and enjoy!
Read below for the inside scoop from Ranchers Abbi, Zeke, Lizzy, Jon-Michael and Zack! We asked them questions about some of their favorite things and future goals.
Remember back in July when Rancher Kris was featured in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette for his stellar acting abilities? Well his video filmed at the T Tauri Movie Camp, along with another video created in part by Ranchers Zeke and Miranda, were both chosen to be screened in the Youth Showcase at the Indie Memphis Film Festival in November. Click the links below to watch Zeke and Miranda’s video “Movie Mania” and Kris’ video “Humanimation.”
A generous donation of sheep at the Batesville Ranch a few months ago has led us to begin a show program for our new additions. I know that this is the easiest project to start as far as a show project for anyone just starting out. After a few emails, a donor offered to buy the Ranch a set of four ewe lambs to show in the fall, and then we are going to use the lambs to start raising our own flock of sheep. The lambs came from a breeder in Mississippi who is very well known for raising high quality show lambs. The kids at the Ranch are excited about the new project and are starting to prepare the animals to show at the North Central Arkansas District Fair in the fall of 2012.
The ranchers have finished up the first half of the school year and are doing great. Each child attends tutoring sessions
Monday through Thursday where the tutoring staff is made up of volunteers and school employees. Students can get help on their homework during sessions and spend time reading in our library.
A few of the ranchers are taking Spanish this year and are trying to master conversation skills. Math, a large part of every child’s education, takes time and dedication to understand. So, every day they learn a new lesson to build upon what they have already learned. Read more…
The following is a list of needed items compiled by our house parents and staff. Help the ranchers ring in the New Year by helping out with their daily needs! Read more…
Youth Ranches to Honor Steve Landers at 16th Annual Children’s Award Dinner

BATESVILLE, Ark. – The Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches (the Ranch) will honor Steve Landers at its 16th Annual Arkansas Children’s Award Dinner Thursday, Oct. 13 at the Statehouse Convention Center- Wally Allen Ballroom in Little Rock. The Children’s Award is given annually recognizing an individual who has made outstanding contributions to create better opportunities for today’s youth.
“Steve has always been a supporter of the young people of Arkansas, whether it’s through monetary donations or his time,” said Mike Cumnock, Ranch CEO. “More importantly, he’s an exceptional role model for the young men and women the Ranch serves, as he demonstrates how hard work and dedication can elevate anyone to the top. We appreciate Steve’s unwavering commitment to give back and are proud to present him with this honor.”
The event will begin with a reception at 6 p.m. in the Peabody’s Grand Ballroom followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe is scheduled to serve as Master of Ceremonies for the 16th consecutive year. Past recipients of the Arkansas Children’s Award include:
All proceeds from the dinner benefit the Ranch, and tickets may be purchased by contacting Diana Holland at 870.793.6841 ext. 301, diana@youthranches.com.