There is no guarantee that the hen will go back to the eggs since she has already left the nest. The best bet would be to put the eggs in the incubator. I would candle them to make sure that they are fertile.
Welcome to the site. I personally prefer the dirt. I have 8x8 indoor coops with runs on them. I leave the birds inside during the winter months and plant wheat or other greens in the runs. They enjoy picking through the greenery.
Welcome to the site. You might try doing a search for Arkansas on the site. I don't know about Arkansas but Indiana has thread. That will get you in touch with some of the local fanciers.
Hello from Indiana,
Sorry that you are having problems. The lack of respect for others seems to be some type of disease in this day and age. People should mind their own business. Though, I would attend the meeting just to see if someone else tried to cause problems. Easier to put and...