Resident News Network

Obituary: Troy Gene Allen (1963-2024)

Obituaries

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1:30 pm

Troy Gene Allen of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at his home. Troy was born August 21, 1963 in Waldron, Arkansas to L.C. Allen and Mayrene (Franklin) Allen. He was 61 years old.

In his early years Troy worked at the sawmill. But he later went to work at Tyson Foods where he had retired from just a couple years ago. Troy was a simple man who lived a simple life. He loved to hunt and be outdoors. He looked forward to the annual family deer camp and being surrounded by many extended family members and friends. If he wasn’t hunting or walking in the woods, he could be found watching a good western or wrestling.

Troy leaves behind to cherish his memory, his siblings: Larry Allen, Donnie Allen, Gary Allen and wife Rosie, David Allen, Kenny Allen and wife Lavada and sister Kathy Helton. Troy will forever be remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and hunting buddies he loved dearly.

Troy was preceded in death by his parents: L.C. and Mayrene Allen, one sister Shirley Scott and two brother in laws James Helton and Almus Scott.

Troy’s family will host a memorial celebration of life service at a later date.

Arrangements and cremation are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory.

Obituary: David Drozdowski Sr. (1944-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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11:22 am

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Obituary: David Drozdowski Sr. (1944-2024)

David D. Drozdowski Sr. of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Sunday, November 3, 2024 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas with loved ones by his side. David was born May 25, 1944 in Elizabeth, New Jersey to Theodore J. Drosdowski and Helen Ann (Hamara) Drozdowski. He was 80 years old.

David was a man of many skills. He worked several jobs that he mastered well. He worked hard to provided for his large family. When time would allow, David loved going fishing and especially hunting. He was a skilled marksman. He enjoyed living in the country and the mere serenity of being surrounded by nature on a daily basis.

David leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife Carolyn Drozdowski, his children: Andrea (Drozdowski) Reynolds of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, David Drozdowski Jr. of Waldron, Arkansas, Elizabeth (Beth) and Calvin Kirkham of Greenwood, Arkansas, Sue and Walter Benedict Jr. of Owasso, Oklahoma, Monica and Bill Barrow of Muldrow, Oklahoma and Robert and Julie Broene of Clever, Missouri. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Cliff (Rene’), LeeAnna (Andrew), Jennifer (Kael), Whitney (Travis), Rachael (Chris), Sarah (Dakota), Michelle, Malia (Luke), Moses (Kassandra), Sarah (Levi), Luke (Morgan), Jeremy (Alaina), Tori (Marco), Ashton (Will), Andrew (Kaela), Jared (Emmalee), Ryan, Justin (Cathleen), Christopher, Joseph, Ashley, A.J., Hope (Carter), Dylan, Tyler and Steven as well as 38 great grandchildren and 7 great great grandchildren. David also leaves lasting memories with his brothers: Theodore Drozdowski Jr. (Janet), William (Bill) Drozdowski(Jana) and Mike Drozdowski (Dianne) and a host of extended family and friends dear to his heart.

David was preceded in death by his parents Theodore and Helen and 2 daughters: Christine Fate Drozdowski and Dee Dee Drozdowski and 3 grandchildren: Ray, Tiffany and Dagny.

David’s family will host a family celebration of life at a later date.

Obituary: Steve Alan Lunsford (1965-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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11:15 am

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Obituary: Steve Alan Lunsford (1965-2024)

Steve Alan Lunsford of Dutch Creek, Arkansas, born July 12, 1965 in Olton, Texas went to his heavenly reward while golfing at Chamberlyne Country Club on November 1, 2024. He was 59 years and 3 months of age. He leaves behind his wife of 39 years, Melissa (Vaughn) Lunsford; one child, Brandon and wife, Mary, with one grandchild, Fay Jordan Lunsford, of San Antonio, Texas; mother, Jean Lunsford of Russellville, Arkansas; one brother, Randy and wife, Jeri, Lunsford, of Amarillo, Texas. He was proceeded in death by his father, CB Lunsford; grandparents, Boyd and Bertha Lunsford and Bill and Vera Mae Billingsley.

He was an active member of the Union Hill Freewill Baptist Church, serving as Adult Sunday School Teacher for several years, and Deacon. He was a Christian and practiced his faith daily. Despite having endured emotional and physical abuse at an early age, Steve broke the cycle. He overcame, becoming a strong man, loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Steve loved sports, competition, and challenge — golfing, scuba diving, sky diving, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, running, snow skiing, water skiing, and martial arts. He and Melissa were taking dancing lessons in order to dance the Waltz in a New York ballroom in December.

LTC Steve Lunsford was proud of his military career and honored to serve his country for 33 years. His military career consisted of Commander of the Wounded Warrior Program at Camp Robinson, Commander of Reserve Unit at Fort Leavenworth, Training Commander in Africa and Germany, search and rescue for Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, and instructor for Officer Candidate School (OCS). He also served in the Gulf War in Saudi Arabia, as well as several deployments around the USA.

He also retired after 31 years from United Parcel Service. After retiring from both UPS and the military, Steve became a school bus driver and substitute teacher.

God blessed Steve and Melissa, allowing them to travel to Rome, Italy, England, Scotland, and Mexico; to scuba diving in the Florida Keys, Dominican Republic, Cauracao, Purto Vallarta with his brother Randy. They also took numerous Vaughn family trips throughout the US.

Steve had a great work ethic, doing everything full force, no reservations. He was the support of his family, helped any one in need, and gave generously to others in multiple ways.

Steve’s ultimate joy was being “Papa” to his granddaughter, Fay Jordan Lunsford. He took every opportunity to play with Fay — tea party, dress up, reading books, anything Fay wanted.

Steve’s life was well lived. God blessed him with abundance, which rippled to include his wife, son, granddaughter, family, and others who had the privilege to really know him.

The funeral will be Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 10:00 a.m. at Union Hill Free Will Baptist Church with Brother Zack Hale officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home in Danville. Burial will be at Union Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Josh Lunsford, Jeremy Lunsford, Virgil Lee Wilkins, Paul Lee Wilkins, Lincoln Hale, Walter Embrey, Terry Owens, and Shane Millard.

Arrangements are by Cornwell Funeral Home, Danville.

Arrest Reports 10/27

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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3:03 pm

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Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Ethan Cole Frederick of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 27 at 6:50 a.m. and released on signature bond at October 27 at 11:14 a.m. Fredrick was charged with Public Intoxication – Annoyance.

Brian Keith Luna of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 29 at 10:10 p.m. Luna was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor, Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), Obstructing Governmental Operations-ID, Public Intoxication – Danger to self or others, and Criminal Trespass – Premises.

Larry Joe Stark of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on November 1 at 6:44 p.m. and released on signature bond November 4 at 9:23 a.m. Stark was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office:
Wesley Leonard Hartsfield of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on November 2 at 4:37 p.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Hartsfield was charged with Return To Testify and ADC commitment hold.

Jason Lee Hill of Bonanza was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 28 at 2:39 p.m. and released on November 1 at 1:22 a.m. Hill was charged with two counts of Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), Fleeing – By Vehicle-Misd., and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor in the Second Degree.

William Maurice Jones of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 31 at 7:50 p.m. and released on November 4 at 12:21 a.m. Jones was charged with Parole Violation, and ACT 570 – Parolee.

Joshua Wayne Meinert of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 31 at 3:49 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 31 at 9:29 p.m. Meinert was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine (2-10g), and Possession Drug Paraphernalia – Felony.

Brad J Robertson of Waldron was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on November 1 at 3:48 p.m. and released on November 2 at 11:33 p.m. Robertson was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine), and Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.

Amber Noale Vanmeter of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 27 at 3:16 p.m. and released on October 30 at 6:01 p.m. Vanmeter was charged with Contempt of Court–(child support), FTAS, FTRespond Subpoena, FTComply WCO, and Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Arresting agency – Barling Police Department:
Kayla Marie Higgins of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 28 at 6:49 p.m. and released on cash bond October 30 at 5:09 p.m. Higgins was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Misdemeanor.

Shamus Walter Watson of Magazine was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on November 2 at 6:40 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond November 2 at 8:50 p.m. Watson was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Arresting agency – Greenwood Police Department:
Kevinn Alan Lund of Fort Smith was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 28 at 9:55 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 28 at 9:07 p.m. Lund was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

John David Vaughn of Van Buren was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 29 at 9:35 a.m. and remains at the SCADC with legally sufficient bond. Vaughn was charged with Habitual Offender, Rape – Forcible Compulsion, and Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree.

Arresting agency – Arkansas State Police Troop H:
Nathan Wayne Mackey of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 29 at 3:53 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 30 at 2:51 p.m. Mackey was charged with Failure to Appear – Class C Felony.

Ashton Wesley Waddle of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 29 at 7:02 p.m. and released on signature bond October 30 at 12:26 a.m. Waddle was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Office:
Karissa Garfield, 25 of Hartman, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 27 at 4:16 p.m. Garfield was charged with contempt of court.

Bobby Bridgman, 41, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 28 at 10:37 a.m. Bridgman was charged with hold for ADC.

Abigail Ruth Baird, 27 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 28 at 6:15 p.m. Baird was charged with contempt of court.

Aaron Klein, 43 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 29 at 5:01 p.m. Klein was charged with disorderly conduct.

Kara Gregory, 40 of Subiaco, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 30 at 4:48 p.m. Gregory was charged with four counts of failure to appear.

Jerry Barr, 46 of Charleston, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on November 2 at 1:39 p.m. Barr was charged with failure to appear, possessing instrument of crime, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine with the purpose to deliver.

Anna Mataya, 37 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on November 2 at 5:50 p.m. Mataya was charged with criminal trespass.

Christopher Kampmann, 33 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on November 2 at 6:07 p.m. Kampmann was charged with contempt of court.

Zechariah Reynolds, 42 of Ratcliff, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on November 2 at 8:27 p.m. Reynolds was charged with violation of an order of protection, and assault on a family or household member in the third degree.

Katherine Kemp, 49 of Booneville, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on November 2 at 11:04 p.m. Kemp was charged with nudism.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office:
Bridgette Louise Casner, 40 of Altus, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 29 at 11:55 a.m. Casner was charged with possession of firearm by certain persons, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, possession of SCH VI LT 4 oz., possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of drug paraphernalia meth/cocaine.

Barry Learvin Durham, 54 of Altus, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 29 at 12:08 p.m. Durham was charged with simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, possession of SCH VI LT 4 oz., possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of drug paraphernalia meth/cocaine, absconding / white warrant, and possession of firearm by certain persons.

Crystal Gail Cross, 37 of Hot Springs, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 29 at 7:37 p.m. Cross was charged with failure to comply with conditions of pre-trial release, and failure to appear on class C felony.

Zachary Knoles, 32 of Van Buren, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 30 at 1:12 p.m. Knoles was charged with domestic battering – 3rd degree / purpose of causing injury, causes serious injury, danger welfare of minor – 3rd degree – recklessly risks physical/mental harm, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and violation of a no contact order.

Terry Taylor, 55 of Texarkana, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 31 at 9:11 p.m. Taylor was charged with failure to pay child support.

Shannon Renae Buchanan, 55 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on November 1 at 5:05 p.m. Buchanan was charged with driving while license suspended, driving while intoxicated – DWI 2nd.

Amber Arlene McCabe, 33 of Alma, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on November 2 at 11:46 p.m. McCabe was charged with driving while intoxicated – DWI 1st, and danger welfare of minor – 2nd degree.

**The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts.**

SR Tigers “Arg”uably Perfect In Win Against Pirates

Sports

Adam Hecox

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7:10 pm

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SR Tigers “Arg”uably Perfect In Win Against Pirates

It is common for a program to go a little flat after a big game. The Mansfield Tigers had a huge game just last week against the Booneville Bearcats where they defeated the defending 2023 State Champions for the first time in 44 years. The game was extremely physically and mentally draining for the team so it wouldn’t be unexpected for Mansfield to go to Northwest Arkansas to face the Greenland Pirates a little bit drained. Word had it that this could be a trap game for the Tigers if they didn’t bring their “A” game, but the trap must’ve been poorly set as Mansfield brought their A, B, C, D, and the rest of the alphabet to the Pirates stadium to blast Greenland with a 66-20 final score.

Greenland’s offense is notorious for their high-flying air raid offense which is a style that has caught the Tigers by the heel this season, so naturally, the Pirates wanted to start the game with the ball on offense. But on the second play of the first quarter, Greenland’s quarterback slung a laser to the wrong color jersey as freshman, Jeremiah Burton, read the Pirates play like a book and took the interception 38 yards for a Tiger touchdown. Trey Powell slid his way into the endzone for a two-point conversion giving Mansfield an 8-0 lead with less than a minute taken off the clock. Greenland did a little better offensively on their next series, but the Tigers were able to shut the Pirate’s drive down and force a turnover on downs. Mansfield’s offense finally got a chance to step foot on the field with nine minutes left in the quarter to match the points their defense had already put up. It only took five plays to do so as Daniel Burton busted loose for a 36-yard Tiger touchdown. Quarterback, Jeremy Strozier, pushed past the goal line for a two-point conversion which gave Mansfield a 16-0 score with a full half-quarter to go. The Tigers’ defense again pinned Greenland back on their next series, but instead of going for it, the Pirates elected to punt the ball…or did they?

The Pirates attempted a fake punt, but Mansfield was ready for it and stuffed the attempt to earn another turnover on downs at the 24-yard line. With a short field in front of them, the Tigers went into the endzone yet again with a four-play drive that was capped off by a 14-yard Tiger touchdown run by Trey Powell. Mansfield didn’t make the two-point conversion, but the route looked to be chugging full steam ahead with the Tigers up 22-0 with 3:53 left in the first quarter. Greenland took the ensuing kickoff for a 64-yard house call bringing the Tiger’s runaway game to a screeching halt. Trey Powell blocked the Pirate’s extra point kick setting the score at 22-6 in the Tiger’s favor. With a total of 28 combined points and 3:43 still to go in the first quarter, the game looked like it could reach 100 points. The Greenland Pirates got the ball right back by recovering an onside kick leaving the shot of an early Pirates comeback a reality. Greenland had the Tiger’s defense pinned back in Pirate territory, but a handful of penalties and incomplete passes pulled the plank out from under Greenland’s feet. Mansfield’s offense took over the game from there. Still, with 1:55 left in the first quarter, Trey Powell again found a seem and turned on some “Powell-iful” speed to go 48 yards for a Tiger touchdown. Daniel Burton tacked on the two-point conversion to stretch Mansfield’s lead to 30-6. The Tigers sank Greenland’s offensive plans to get the ball again with just a second left on the clock. Seconds left in the opening quarter was all Trey Powell needed as he broke loose again to go 57 yards before finally being taken down at the one-yard line as time expired in the first quarter.

The second quarter started with the ball in Mansfield’s possession at the one-yard line. The call was simple for that situation as Jeremy Strozier got behind his offensive line to walk his way into the endzone for a Tiger touchdown. Jeremiah Burton worked his way past the goal to add on a two-point conversion pushing the Tiger’s lead to 38-6 at the beginning of the second quarter. Even with the passing game being the kryptonite for Mansfield’s defense, they seemed to power their way and continue to pressure the Greenland offense forcing more three-and-outs against the Pirates. By doing so, the Tiger’s offense was given free reigns of the field and continued to do what they do best. Score. Mansfield hop-scotched their way down into the endzone again with a Jeremy Strozier one-yard Tiger touchdown after just eight offensive snaps. The two-point attempt was no good, but the Tigers bumped the score up to a 44-6 Mansfield lead. Fans could’ve guessed what would happen next at that point and they would’ve been right as the Tiger’s defense chose to not bend or break to force Greenland to punt. One offensive play later, the Tigers aired the ball out with a Jeremy Strozier to Leland Powell pass for a 51-yard Tiger touchdown. The two-point conversion was good as the scoreboard light bulbs burnt up to a 51-6 Mansfield lead with 4:59 left in the first half. Mansfield kicked the ball to Greenland, but the Pirates bobbled the catch, then wobbled the ball on the ground, which allowed Alex Hecox to gobble up the recovery at the five-yard line. Even without the defense touching the field, the Tigers were set up with great field position and only ran one play to score as Jeremiah Burton jumped in from five yards out for another Tiger touchdown. With the two-point conversion being good, the score sat at 60-6 with 4:33 left in the half. Mansfield would again score at the 1:38 mark as Daniel Burton exploded up the middle of Greenland’s defense for an 84-yard touchdown. As the half ended, the score stood at 66-6.

The second half saw nothing but second-stringers playing for the Tigers as the mercy rule officially went into effect. With merely a 20-man roster, the Tigers put players in positions they’ve never been in and gave the ball to just about anyone who could carry it. Players like Dalton Knowles, Pacen Strozier, Chandler Whisman, Leland Powell, and Cooper Edwards all had carries in the second half. Even with minimal experience, each of them carried the ball well and earned yards with each carry. The defense subbed out also as the full roster wound up having the opportunity to step foot on the field in the game. Greenland left their starters out for the remainder of the game and was able to put up a couple of scores, but the game was well too far out of reach for a miracle comeback as the Tigers rolled to a 66-20 victory.

The blowout victory over Greenland proved that Mansfield could play a big game one week and follow it up without skipping a beat. The Tigers now sit with a 7-2 overall record and an undefeated 6-0 conference record. While all of that sounds good, the Tiger’s preseason goals have not been met yet. Their goal of becoming the 3A-1 Conference Champions had been partially met with their win over the Pirates, but there’s still one conference game to go. As of now, the Tigers are guaranteed a share of the 3A-1 Conference Championship, but a win over West Fork on November 8^th will give Mansfield their first outright 3A-1 Conference Championship for the first time since 2010. Mansfield has also locked up a 1Seed in the State Playoffs, but again, that isn’t the final goal. The Tiger’s final goal is to be the 3A-1 Conference Champions and the Arkansas 3A State Champions. Mansfield’s players and coaching staff believe that that goal is the only one that is acceptable, and the entire state is starting to see that the Tigers achieving their preseason goal has a very high possibility.

Obituary: William “Dub” Himes (1949-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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3:28 pm

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Obituary: William “Dub” Himes (1949-2024)

William “Dub” Himes of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Thursday, October 31, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Dub was born April 29, 1949 to James W. Himes and Evelyn (Cheesman) Himes. He was 75 years old.

As a young man, Dub married the love of his life, Judith. Together they conquered everything life threw at them. From hard times to good times, they shared a never ending love that was an example for all to see. Dub was a hard worker with many trades under his belt. Everything from panning for gold to working for Tyson Foods, Dub was very instrumental in bringing willow furniture to this part of Arkansas. As talented as Dub was, his favorite hobbies were anything fishing and simply being outdoors. With all that being said, Dub was happiest when he had a lap full of grandchildren or great grandchildren. He loved spending time with the littles, creating precious memories, sharing his wisdom, and leaving a legacy of heartfelt admiration.

Dub leaves behind to cherish his memory, his devoted wife of 55 years, Judith of the home and his children: William Himes Jr. of Waldron, Arkansas, Barbara Curtis and husband Jody of Parks, Arkansas, Bradley Himes and wife Trinity of Waldron, Arkansas, James Himes and wife Felica of Mansfield, Arkansas, April Himes of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Tashina Helton of Waldron, Arkansas and William Himes III of Waldron, Arkansas. Papa will forever remain in the hearts of his grandchildren:Paul Curtis, Tawni Curtis and great grandchildren:Kimberly, Kylee and Austin Helton, Ruger, and Jessie Curtis all of Waldron and Dalylah, Zariah, Jacelyn, Asher and Remington Himes from Mansfield. Dub is also survived by his brothers Howard Himes and Verney Himes.

Dub was preceded in death by his parents: James and Evelyn and siblings: Thomas Himes, Lonnie Himes, Wanda Hitchcock and Erline Brown.

Dub’s visitation will be Sunday, November 3, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.

Honorary pallbearers will be James Himes, Junior Himes, Brad Himes, Austin Helton, Paul Curtis and Howard Himes.

A memorial celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Bulldogs Win Big On An Emotional Night

Ross Fujibayashi

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9:26 am

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It took just 12 seconds, on the game clock, for the Greenwood Bulldogs to let the rest of the area know they were ready to play and honor fallen teammate Isaiah Arrington. “You know, it was almost like we had someone pushing us through there.” Head Coach Chris Young said after the 70-28 win over Fort Smith Southside. “I’ll tell you what, I’m not sure we didn’t play with 12 men on that first play.”

Greenwood opened the game with Senior Grant Karnes taking the opening kickoff in for a Touchdown to put the Bulldogs on the scoreboard with the Hudson Meeker point-after. On the ensuing kick-off, Southside bobbled the pitch back to the returner and Senior Zach Edwards pounced on the ball, giving the ball back to Greenwood. On the first offensive play, Greenwood came out in a missing man formation and took a knee for a delay of game penalty to honor Senior wide receiver Isaiah Arrington. Who tragically lost his life in house fire, with his mother Wendy Medrano, and sister Vivian Medrano. Southside declined the penalty and a few plays later, Junior Kane Archer found classmate Champ Davis for Archer’s first of eight passing touchdowns on the night. Bulldogs on top 14-0 with just 11:16 left in the first quarter.

The Mavericks’ next drive ended in a punt. Junior Wesley Raggio ran to the left side to get in for Greenwood’s third score of the night. Hudson Meeker’s kick was good pushing the Greenwood lead to 21-0 with 9:18 left in the first. The Southside drive was left to a punt after tackles for a loss by Seniors Paul Brixey and Mark Garretson. Kane Archer found Champ Davis for their second touchdown with 6:07 left in the first on the next drive. Southside would start driving the field on the Greenwood defense when Senior Zach Zitsmann intercepted the Maverick pass. Kane Archer would find classmate Cooper Bland in the middle of the field for the touchdown. After the Wyatt Edwards snap, Blaze McDaniel hold, Hudson Meeker kick, the Bulldogs were now in Sportsmanship rule territory 35-0. Southside got a deep pass down their right side to put them in scoring position. They scored on a run with 0:01 left in the 1st. 35-7. The long kickoff return and hit by Champ Davis ran the rest of the time off the clock.

Opening the second quarter, Kane Archer found Champ Davis again, this time Davis provided the highlight of a one-handed bobbled catch in the end zone. The Mavericks’ next drive ended with a punt. Kane Archer found his third different receiver in Junior Benton Hossley for a touchdown at the 6:58 mark left in the half. 56-7. Southside turned it over on downs on their next drive in Greenwood territory. A deep pass to Senior Grant Karnes and a long run by Junior Cooper Goodwin, set up an Archer to Scott Holland touchdown. The point after pushed the score 63-7 with 2:50 left in the half. The Mavericks find the end zone on a pass with 1:01 left in the half. 63-14. Greenwood’s next drive was punctuated by a Southside player being ejected and Kane Archer breaking the school record for touchdowns in a game and tying the state record for touchdowns in half. Kane found Senior Grant Karnes in the end zone for his eighth touchdown on the night with 0:01 left in the half. It broke the former Bulldog and Razorback Tyler Wilson’s school record of 7 and tied former Pulaski Academy Bruin Thomas Thrash’s state halftime record of 8.

The second half Sophomore Thomas Newcity intercepted Southside after classmate Griffin Mourton came up with a sack on a previous play. Southside scored twice more in the second half to push the score to 70-28. Greenwood ran out the clock in the fourth quarter to finish the game.

“We feed off of each other, we knew tonight could go one of two ways.” Head Coach Chris Young said, “It could be like this, where we played awesome. Or we knew it could be a tough night.”

“We have a lot of tough times still ahead of us.” Coach Young said, “We are going to continue to celebrate the things he brought to this program. Celebrate the lessons that he taught us. The memories he gave us. He was an amazing young man and he had a huge impact not only on our football team, our school. We’re missing him.”

“I was a lot more happy about the smiles I saw on the sideline and the hugging. It’s been a tough few days, so today was a good one for us.” Coach Young said.

The Bulldogs are at home next week against Mountain Home for Senior night, which undoubtedly be another emotional game for Greenwood. With a Shiloh Christian loss to Lake Hamilton, it puts the 8-1 Bombers in a position to play spoiler to the Bulldogs. A Mountain Home win puts them with a shot to steal the number 1 seed away from Greenwood going into the playoffs. The Bombers defense will be tested as this Greenwood Bulldog team has a possibility to finish scoring 743 points. It will place Greenwood sixth in the state record book, but just the third school not named Pulaski Academy or Shiloh Christian on the list. Joining the 2003 Junction City Dragons and the 2008 Fountain Lake Cobras. Kickoff is slated for 7 P.M.

Area Teams Show Support For Greenwood

Ross Fujibayashi

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7:55 am

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Since Wednesday morning, the support the Greenwood Community and the School District has been shown is nothing short of incredible.

Social media posts from area schools sending their condolences and support have been coming in from all over the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas. On Friday, four local teams came to serve a pre-game meal that was provided by Sho Bo’s Kitchen. Norris Service and Construction alongside the VFW in Greenwood gathered the money to provide the meal for the team before their game against Fort Smith Southside. The teams that participated in the meal were Fort Smith Southside, Hackett, Lavaca, and Mansfield.

The four schools have ties to the Greenwood Bulldogs, Fort Smith Southside has a few former Mavericks on the Greenwood roster. Hackett, Lavaca, and Mansfield have players and a coach that were a part of the Greenwood Pittbulls and Bulldogs program at one time. Several of those being Mansfield running back Daniel Burton, Lavaca Wide Receiver Keaton Whisenhunt and Head Coach Nick Stovall, and Hackett Wide Receiver Nick Bass.

“It’s sign you know communities pull together when there’s a tragedy. We’re very appreciative of all the local communities.” Head Coach Chris Young said following the meal. “It’s just an indication that it is a lot bigger than game. We all care about each other and lending a hand through tough times right now.”

Fort Smith Southside Honored the families of the Wendy Medrano, Isaiah Arrington, and Vivian Medrano with several tributes before and during Friday nights game. The Spirit Squads for Greenwood and Southside released balloons to honor Vivian’s sixth birthday which was Friday. Both teams came together in the middle of the field for a moment of silence for those lost in the Wednesday morning fire. All proceeds from the Southside Southern Belles portion of the 50/50 raffle were donated to the families. Coincidentally, a Greenwood fan won the 50/50 and elected to donate their portion as well.

Across the state several teams held moments of silence before their games as well. The Rogers Mounties, who have players that played travel football with Isaiah Arrington, held a moment of silence. The Purple Dogs of Fayetteville carried out a “G” flag on their run out.

Remembering Wendy, Isaiah, and Vivian

Ross Fujibayashi

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7:10 am

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These are never easy to write, frankly I tried to write this Wednesday night after the Prayer Vigil. Maybe, it was fate that I couldn’t log in as the emotions were raw. But for myself, Wednesday night is exactly what I needed mentally.

I first met Isaiah Arrington when he was a 4th grader. I was intermittently helping coach on my sons Pittbulls team when other coaches could not make it. Several kids on our team had siblings on the grade above so we would scrimmage each other. They had the kids I write about weekly in the game recaps, Grant Karnes, Cash Archer, Kaylor Jasna, Isaiah Arrington and others. Both of our teams were close. When they moved up to Junior High that is when you got to see the beginnings of what Isaiah was going to become. Fast, sure handed, just hard working and wanting to get better. If Grant Karnes ripped a long touchdown, the next possession Isaiah was going to get one too. Then their freshman year happened and my opinion of Isaiah just being a great athlete changed.

My oldest son had come home and was telling us he was getting bullied. He is on the spectrum, but he wanted to progress, to be in regular classes. But one kid….. I posted it on Facebook not aa a complaint about the district or anything like that. Just a different angle, a let’s teach our kids to do better. It grabbed the attention of Isaiah and Cash Archer. At the Freshman game that night, they both came up to me separately and said, “We found out who it was and he will not be bullying Charlie any more.” They were right. Ever since that kid never said another word. It was the fact they stood up for him that I was taken back. This is not just a kid that plays football, but a kid that stands up for others. Isaiah made all the photographers and videographers, no matter who we were, feel like superstars. Saturday morning Instagram messages of “What pics did you get?” or “Do you have video of that one play.” I’ll miss those.

It was hard to go to an event that the football moms participated in and not see Wendy Medrano. Always there to decorate the locker room. Helping get something ready for the boys. Just whatever it took. She was a proud mom of all her kids, whether it was Emory doing something in college to Vivian looking adorable in a photo. There was always a story she had to tell. I drive by the House Collective that she owned and there was always something interesting she had acquired.

Then there is Vivian Medrano. I started working with her dad Tony Medrano in 2020 when our company expanded during AVECC’s rural fiber boom. She was the center of his world. When Isaiah played travel ball with us in Kansas City, there was that little girl following his every move. She would come out to our company functions and not have a care in the world. I’ll miss the stories from her dad when he swings by my office to catch up on what our kids are doing.

As I walked to the field Wednesday, it made everything real. The In Loving Memory on the scoreboard brought tears to my eyes. Seeing the hurt in everyone’s face made the pain that much more. But. We stood together as a community, with the family, with the team, with the friends. We became one.

A Celebration of Life Service for Wendy Medrano, Isaiah Arrington, and Vivian Medrano will be held Tuesday, November 5th at 11 A.M. in the H.B Stewart Arena on the Greenwood High School Campus.

“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

Tammy Teague

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5:25 pm

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“Just Roll with It” Serving up Recipes and Humor

By Lifestyle Contributor, Sheri Hopkins

Hello everyone! Halloween was a huge success at my house. I had so many trick or treaters, I lost count. I loved seeing all the kids, they were so cute. I had all the family and a few friends over. I made a huge pot of chili, crock pot full of cheese dip and Jacob smoked some pork, and it was delicious. For dessert, I made peach cobbler (no peaches from Georgia thanks to Larry Wagoner) Two kinds of strawberry cookies, kisses cookies, two batches of brownies and lunch lady peanut butter bars. I was worn smooth out last night. It was worth it though!

I was driving to Fort Smith the other day and I heard an advertisement for cameras for your home. I am listening to the lady that is giving her spill and said, “I have these cameras in my home so I can keep an eye on my children when I am not home.” I’m thinking, what a good idea. I might need one of those to watch my chihuahua, JR, while I am at work. She keeps talking and she says, “we are thinking about getting some and putting them in my parent’s home so we can keep an eye on them also.”

Hmmm…well the wheel in my mind starts turning and I am thinking, I don’t know about that. Then it hits me, Jacob Hopkins could be looking at me this very moment. I am looking around for something he could have a camera hid in. He already calls me “Oldilocks.” He may have cameras watching me. So, just in case he has, I had to make some faces and act crazy just to see if he was watching me. I think that putting cameras in your parent’s home could be a little scary, no telling what they would see at my house. I talk to my dog, and myself. He will put me away if he watches me. Enough about that, who am I kidding he wouldn’t pay for a camera, he is a tightwad. Remember, he wants me to find a cemetery closer to him, so he won’t have to drive so far when I die.

Thanksgiving will be here before we know it. The time sure does fly by, seems like the older you are, the faster it goes.

This week’s recipe is a cinnamon roll apple crisp. I love anything apple. This is the perfect time of year for apple desserts. Did I ever tell y’all that my Granny Morgan always, and I mean every evening after supper, peeled an apple and ate it. That’s one of the memories I have of her. Of course, us kids, always wanted some of it.

CINNAMON ROLL APPLE CRISP
1 12.4 oz. package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough with icing
1 cup rolled oats (Quick Oats work fine)
1 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup margarine (softened)
8 Granny Smith apples (peeled and sliced)
1/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Roll the cinnamon rolls onto a work surface to desired thickness, big enough to fit into a 9×13 baking dish or you can just flatten them in the bottom of the pan with your hands. Mix oats, brown sugar, flour, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Then add margarine until crumbly (it’s easier with a fork). Spread apples over cinnamon roll crust. Mix the white sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon together in a bowl and sprinkle over the apples. Top with the oat mixture. Bake in a preheated oven until the apples are tender (about 40-50 minutes) depending on your oven. Place the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls in the microwave for a few seconds and drizzle it over the apple crisp while still warm. I would add a few crushed pecans sprinkled on top before baking if you like nuts. Have a wonderful week, we are so blessed folks.

R

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