Resident News Network

Obituary: Lee Shadd (1929-2024)

Obituaries

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2:07 pm

Lee V. Shadd went to be with Our Lord on October 15, 2024. Lee was born to Virgil and Grace Shadd on November 24, 1929 in Waldron, Arkansas.

Lee served in the United States Air Force for twenty plus years, serving in Vietnam, Europe and throughout the United States.

Lee lived his life as a caring and devout Baptist father. He lived his faith as evident in his involvement in Haw Creek Church as Deacon and church volunteer. Lee was the rock for the whole family, giving love freely. Anyone who knew Lee, knew of his love of his country, his community, and his Church! Lee lived with conviction to his values, with love for his family, charity, and hope. Nothing meant more to Lee than his family – his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He forged lasting and deep relationships with friends throughout his life, childhood and church friends.

He is survived by his children LeeAnn (Shadd) Brannon, Scott Shadd, granddaughter Sierra (Shadd) Kendall, grandson Dawson Shadd, son-in-law Donald Brannon, grand son-in-law Tyler Kendell, great grandchildren, Asher, Gavin and Caden Kendall, and two grand-dogs, Maddie and April Ann.

He is predeceased by his wife Joan Shadd; two sons – Russell and Robert Shadd; his father Virgil Shadd and mother Grace Shadd.

Lee’s celebration of life will be 2:00 p.m., Sunday, October 20, 2024 at the Haw Creek Baptist Church in Waldron, Arkansas with Rev. Jack Smith and Rev. John Elmore officiating. Interment will follow in the Pearson Cemetery. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Lee’s visitation will be Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.

We will miss Lee deeply but know that he is living within the promises of eternal life with Our Lord Jesus Christ. May Our Brother in Christ rest in peace.

Please hug your loved ones in his memory.

RNN Sports: Stone Cold Lock Of The Week: Week 7

Ross Fujibayashi

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1:16 pm

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RNN Sports: Stone Cold Lock Of The Week: Week 7

Just 4 regular season games left. This season is going quickly! Week 6 recap: Hackett put a scare into Charleston leading by a point at halftime, before the Tigers grabbed another gear and took off. Greenwood Junior Quarterback Kane Archer threw seven touchdowns and nearly 400 yards. The signal-caller tied a school record that was set before he was born by former Razorback and NFL QB Tyler Wilson. What set his seven touchdowns apart from the record set in 2007, was Archer did it in just one half. Which placed him 2nd in the record book behind Hooten’s Arkansas Football owner Thomas Thrash. In last week’s predictions I mentioned I once questioned Booneville’s ability to defend the pass. They proved me right this go-round and held Greenland’s passing offense to 14 points.

There is not a guest picker this week and that makes us sad.

Stone Cold Lock Of The Week

Charleston vs Lavaca

Both teams are 3-3 and 2-1 in conference. Both have a loss to Mansfield. The one of things that separates them currently is that Lavaca won the Steffy’s Pizza Challenge. Their equal standing is what has them as the Stone Cold Lock Of The Week. Both teams have been looking to find their footing on the season. Charleston has scored more than double than Lavaca this season, but this Friday these two are going for the Battle of Hwy 22.

The Others

Mansfield vs Cedarville

Mansfield held Lavaca to just 6 points last week. The visitor side of the Cedarville scoreboard is going to be lit up early and often in this one.

Greenland vs Hackett

This almost became the Stone Cold Lock of The Week. Hackett’s first half against Charleston had us looking at our newspaper score update group text like we did the night Waldron beat Ozark. With as prevalent, high-scoring one sided games have become across the state it was nice to see one that was close. Greenland makes the trip to Sebastian County seeking a win to push them over .500 for the season.

Lake Hamilton vs Greenwood

The Wolves have not scored on the Bulldogs since December 2020, when there were seniors Jordan Hanna (UofA/UNLV), Jayden Jasna (Ark Tech), and Braden Stein (Pitt State). This year, their brothers Gage Hanna, Kaylor Jasna, and Ashton Stein are seniors. Could this be the year Lake Hamilton breaks the scoreless streak? Greenwood’s offense is on pace to have not one, not two, but three 1000-yard receivers. After two years of two 1000-yard receivers L.J. Robins (NSU) and Senior Grant Karnes. The latter is joined by classmate Isaiah Arrington and Junior Champ Davis to make it a long night for a Defensive Coordinator. Add Seniors Hudson Meeker and Scott Holland, Juniors Cooper Bland and Cooper Goodwin, it is a pick your poison scenario.

Mena vs Waldron

If you had Mena going 6-0 and Waldron getting wins over Paris and Ozark on your pre-season predictions or 2024 Bingo Card, go ahead and cross into Oklahoma and play a table or a slot machine. Because wow. Mena is rolling right now in the 4A, and they are flying under the radar in a class that has Elkins, LR Mills, Batesville Southside, Arkadelphia, and Malvern. With as top heavy as that class is, it has the makings of the must watch play-offs currently.

West Fork vs Booneville

Barring something wild happening, Booneville does Booneville things against West Fork. Prescott and the Booneville Bearcats are heading to a collision course for December 6th in Little Rock.

J.C. Westside vs Magazine

This one also almost became the Stone Cold Lock Of The Week. Two evenly matched schools looking for their footing in their season.

Paris vs Jessieville

The Eagles are making some trips to the Ouachitas this season. Humorously, last week all of the undefeated conference teams, at the time, Paris, Glen Rose, Perryville, and Jessieville played each other. Perryville defeated Paris and Glen Rose defeated Jessieville. This week Glen Rose faces Perryville to see who stays undefeated. Paris and Jessieville both have one loss and are going for the 3rd and 4th spot in the Playoff seeding.

LSU vs Arkansas

Since it seemed to work against Tennessee, I still feel the same way about Arkansas’ chances against LSU. Play them close or beat them in the first half, then LSU takes over. But, gosh it is in Fayetteville…..

	Ross’ Picks	Adam’s Picks
Charleston vs Lavaca	Charleston	Charleston
Mansfield vs Cedarville	Mansfield	Mansfield
Greenland vs Hackett	Greenland	Greenland
Lake Hamilton vs Greenwood	Greenwood	Greenwood
Mena vs Waldron	Mena	Mena
West Fork vs Booneville	Booneville	Booneville
J.C. Westside vs Magazine	Magazine	Magazine
Paris vs Jessieville	Jessieville	Jessieville
LSU vs Arkansas	LSU	Arkansas

Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association Supports Hunger Relief with Donation to Arkansas Hunger Alliance

Tammy Teague

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9:33 am

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Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association Supports Hunger Relief with Donation to Arkansas Hunger Alliance

The Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance is excited to announce a generous donation from the Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association (AADA), further strengthening efforts to reduce hunger across the state. This contribution will support the Alliance’s ongoing work to provide nutritious food to families in need and promote long-term food security for Arkansans.

“The Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association is proud to collaborate with the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance in our shared mission to combat hunger at home,” said Frank Hug of Hug Chevrolet GMC. “This partnership enables us to leverage our resources and community presence to make a meaningful impact.”

AADA will present the donation to the Alliance on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Hug Chevrolet GMC, located at 415 East Main Street in Charleston, Arkansas, at 11 a.m. The donation will enable the Alliance to expand its network of food distribution, enhance hunger-relief programs, and directly assist vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and rural communities.

“Auto and truck dealers throughout Arkansas have a long history of supporting the needs in their communities,” said Greg Kirkpatrick, president of the Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association. “We see this partnership with the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance as an opportunity for our members to assist in ensuring that more families across the state have access to nutritious food.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association’s commitment to helping us ensure that no Arkansan goes hungry,” said Sylvia Blain, chief executive officer of the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance. “This gift demonstrates the power of community partnerships.”

Arrest Reports 10/6

Police Reports

Tammy Teague

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6:19 pm

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Arresting agency – Sebastian County Sheriff’s Department:
Ashlie LeeAnn Arnold of Paris was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 11 at 9:25 a.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 11 at 1 p.m. Arnold was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Ingest Meth/Cocaine, and Possession of Methamphetamine <2g.

Brooklyn Nicole Bogard of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 7 at 2:48 a.m. and released on October 10 at 4:27 p.m. Bogard was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Torie Rae Cantrell of Hackett was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 9 at 3:15 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 9 at 3:15 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 9 at 5:26 p.m. Cantrell was charged with Attempted Residential Burglary.

Cody Coggins of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 11 at 3:47 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 12 at 3:29 p.m. Coggins was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance – Schedule I/II 28-200g Felony.

Amy L. Downs of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 11 at 11:15 p.m. and released on signature bond October 12 at 12:04 a.m. Downs was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Keryn Johnna Higginbotham of Lavaca was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 6 at 2:55 p.m. and released on signature bond October 6 at 6:35 p.m. Higginbotham was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Horace Martin of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 8 at 4 p.m. and released to another agency on October 9 at 10:08 a.m. Martin was charged with Assist Outside Agency-Felony.

Kenitay Cache Salyers of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 10 at 11:29 a.m. and remains at the SCADC without bond. Salyers was charged with ADC commitment hold.

Arresting agency – Fort Smith Police Department:
Zachary Fred Craig of Charleston was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 10 at 8:40 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 11 at 1:28 a.m. Craig was charged with Driving While Intoxicated 1st Offense.

Breanna Leshaye Diaz of Greenwood was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 6 at 9:40 p.m. and released on October 7 at 1:28 p.m. Diaz was charged with Failure to Appear – Class B Misdemeanor.

Deanna Lee Hudson of Booneville was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 12 at 11:59 p.m. and released on legally sufficient bond October 13 at 10:03 p.m. Hudson was charged with Petition to Revoke – Felony.

Arresting agency – Arkansas State Police Troop H:
Mary Elizabeth Morton of Hartford was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 12 at 8:12 p.m. and released on signature bond October 12 at 10:53 p.m. Morton was charged with Contempt-willful disobedience (Failure to Pay Fine).

Arresting agency Hackett Police Department:
Nathanael Ryan Tucker of Tahlequah, OK was booked into the Sebastian County Detention Center on October 8 at 2:09 p.m. and released on signature bond October 8 at 7:03 p.m. Tucker was charged with Public Intoxication – Annoyance.

Arresting agency – Logan County Sheriff’s Department:
Fernando Alcala, 28, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 8 at 12 p.m. Alcala was charged with hold for U.S. Marshal.

Jimmy Morgan, 58 of Scranton, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 8 at 6:28 p.m. Morgan was charged with contempt of court.

Thomas Gibson, 29 of Paris, was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 11 at 1:46 p.m. Gibson was charge with bond revocation.

David Lewis, 62 of Magazine was booked into the Logan County Detention Center on October 11 at 7:36 p.m. Lewis was charged with violation of conditions of suspension or probation.

Arresting agency – Franklin County Sheriff’s Department:
Kimberly Michelle Mouser, 46 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 12 at 10:18 p.m. Mouser was charged with possession of meth or cocaine LT 2 GM, and absconding / white warrant.

Randall Edwin Lee, 60 of Ozark was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 10 at 4:57 p.m. Lee was sentenced to CCC.

Horace Hamilton Martin, 54 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 9 at 10:46 a.m. Martin was charged with failure to appear, and failure to pay child support.

Brandon Michael Fenner, 25 of Charleston, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 8 at 1:22 p.m. Fenner was charged with failure to appear.

Jessie Brison, 45 of Ozark, was booked into the Franklin County Detention Center on October 6 at 7:54 p.m. Brison was charged with misdemeanor criminal trespass.

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

Obituary: Lou Ella Wright (1941-2024)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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1:49 pm

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Lou Ella Wright, known by most as Lucy and by those who loved her most as Nana, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Lucy was born on August 28, 1941 in Y-City, Arkansas. She was married to the love of her life, Don Wright, on June 17, 1959. They shared 65 wonderful years together. She lived a life rich in love, laughter, and hard work, believing wholeheartedly that her greatest treasure was the bond she shared with her family.

Born and raised as a spirited tomboy, Lucy embraced the outdoors with an infectious enthusiasm. From climbing trees to exploring fields, she was always happiest when outside. This love for nature carried into her adult and later years. When anyone came to visit, they would find her on the front porch watching her squirrels, hummingbirds, and flowers.

Lucy loved farming. From her love for her cows and chickens to gardening, she kept herself busy with farm life. Summers were a testament to her tomboy, nature-loving personality, as she often roamed barefoot. A cherished tradition she passed down to her grandchildren was the hunt for the first purple and white spring flowers, lovingly dubbed “barefoot flowers,” which signaled that shoes could be left behind until fall.

Lucy’s life was centered around God and family. She put Jesus first; she was a praying mother and nana and a light for the Lord. She was a member of Boles Southern Baptist Church in Boles, Arkansas. There wasn’t a day that passed when Lucy wasn’t studying her Word and praying for her family.

Lucy is preceded in death by her father and mother, Charles (Speck) and Lessie Slagle; her mother-in-law, Eunice Ledgerwood; her brother Bob Slagle; and her grandchildren, Aaron and Lisa.

Lucy is survived by her husband, Don Wright; her three children and their spouses, Steve and wife Sherri, Donna Duncan and husband Eugene, and Chuck Wright and wife Becky; her grandchildren, Chris Wright and Candace, Amy Slater and Keith, Travis Bottoms, and Tyler Wright; her great-grandchildren, Tristian, Pierse, Atticus, Olivia, and Remington; her sister, Treva Harberson and Tommy; her brother, Bill Slagle and Pat; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

As the family’s matriarch, Lucy nurtured and cared for everyone around her, always ready with a warm meal or a listening ear. Her strength, kindness, and unwavering support will leave an indelible mark on all who knew her.

In honor of Lucy’s memory, a celebration of her life will be held at 2:00 on October 15, 2024, at her beloved church, Boles Southern Baptist. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Boles Southern Baptist, to Chant Cemetery, or of Gideon Bibles in her memory.

Wicked Fun at the White’s Halloween Party

Featured

Tammy Teague

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1:42 pm

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Wicked Fun at the White’s Halloween Party

Sixteen years ago, Sean and Shannon White had an idea for bringing the community together. And that, was the founding notion behind their annual Halloween party.

The Whites are a name synonymous with the Hackett community. The couple is well respected and generous of their time and resources. Both continually look for ways to aid their town and its citizens, humbly and quietly.

2023 Halloween Party at the Whites (RNN photo / Joey Bolin Photography)

The annual Halloween event is one they both look forward to hosting each year. “We started it because I wanted an event in which kids and parents could have homemade goodies and feel 100% safe,” Shannon White stated. “I remember from childhood how it felt to get a popcorn ball or candied apple at a neighbor’s house and I wanted folks to experience that special and safe feeling.”

Sean White echoed that sentiment sharing, “we wanted to give the kids in this area something fun and safe to do on Halloween.”

The couple hosts well over 1,000 guests each year. They serve up hotdogs, nachos, cookies, punch and of course, good CANDY!

“We can’t count the number of those attending because we are so busy from the time we open the gates,” added Shannon White. “It’s so rewarding each year…”

Photos from the White’s annual Halloween party 2023 (RNN photos / Joey Bolin Photography).

Longtime attendee and Hackett resident, Renee Trent, shared her experience: “The Whites bring the community together in a way I’ve not ever seen anyone else master with their alluring and inviting Halloween party. Second to none, beginning with the decorations and connected by activities, food and fellowship, Shannon and Sean truly define the word ‘community.’ While the couple even calls it ‘The Chief’s Halloween Party,’ we all know that behind the scenes is a mom, a leader and a friend that has put much thought and effort into the festivities as she puts into her family and her husband’s reputation as the town Police Chief. Amongst the servant hearts that provide you will find Mrs. White’s mom and dad and the White’s children who are all grown now.
I think its a pretty neat little soiree that all the town people look forward to each year.”

Sean and Shannon White (RNN photo / Joey Bolin Photography)

The Whites will, of course be hosting the event this year. Sean White stated that they had completed the outdoor decorations. The event was slated for October 31 at 5:30 p.m. until they run out of goodies. The party is hosted at their residence, located at 201 South Main in Hackett.

A parade of party goers at the Whites on Halloween 2023. (RNN photo / Joey Bolin Photography)

Meet the Finalists: T‑Mobile Reveals Top 16 High Schools in Friday Night 5G Lights Competition

Featured

Tammy Teague

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10:02 am

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Meet the Finalists: T‑Mobile Reveals Top 16 High Schools in Friday Night 5G Lights Competition

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Oct. 14, 2024 — T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS) announced the Top 16 finalists in its Friday Night 5G Lights competition, which saw more than 1,700 high schools from small towns in all 50 states compete for a chance to win a game-changing 5G technology upgrade for their football fields. The remaining 16 finalists will each receive a $25,000 grant for their school, along with an epic T-Mobile celebration at an upcoming home football game where the Un-carrier will be onsite with games, giveaways and free food at the concession stands.

“Small town America went all out for Friday Night 5G Lights,” said Jon Freier, President, T-Mobile Consumer Group. “This competition truly showcases what makes small towns so special and the incredible sense of community that exists in these areas. We’re excited to see which school will walk away with the grand prize and the ultimate 5G-powered game night experience, bringing their community together like never before.”

The finalists move onto the final face-off, where people across the country will help decide which deserving high school will win an extraordinary $2 million grand prize to upgrade one small town’s pride and joy: its high school football field. The grand prize includes a $100,000 grant for the school, weight room from GronkFitness.com, new teched-out scoreboard, consultation with football field experience experts, 5G network upgrades package and an epic tailgate party celebration with live music and a 5G-powered halftime drone show. Whew!

The 16 Friday Night 5G finalist high schools hail from small towns and rural communities across the U.S.

Meet the Top 16 Contenders

The Friday Night 5G Lights finalists were each selected for their immense pride in their hometown and a compelling story for how an Un-carrier-style upgrade would transform their high school football stadium and local community. These are the Top 16:

Beaumont United High School (Beaumont, Texas): The Timberwolves know hard work pays off and are hoping to transform their playing field and improve the game experience for players and fans after being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and Imelda in 2019.
Crest Ridge High School (Centerview, Mo.): Located an hour east of Kansas City in the small town of Centerview, Missouri, lie the Crest Ridge Cougars. As a vital part of the community, the Cougars are seeking vital upgrades to their football field and facilities, including updated lighting, new turf, a new track, renovated press box and locker room to increase player safety and wellness and restore community pride for years to come.
Dumas High School (Dumas, Texas): Located just north of Amarillo, Texas, is the home of the Dumas Demons, ready to bring the competition and give their 57-year-old stadium an upgrade that includes new seating, stadium lighting, technology and amenities.
Greenwood High School (Greenwood, Ark.): Based just south of Fort Smith in Greenwood, Arkansas, the Greenwood Bulldogs are 11-time state football championship winners, the last being in 2023. They hope to create a state-of-the-art facility by upgrading seating, turf, technology and increasing accessibility that will serve the needs of their students, families and the community.
Hughson High School (Hughson, Calif.): Known for its vast orchards of almonds and walnuts, the northern California town is home to the 1997 and 2022 State Champion Hughson Huskies. With a football program nearly 100 years old, this community football program is rich in tradition and celebrates championship teams for life. The football field is the home for many activities beyond football and needs a new scoreboard, upgrades to both the locker room and weight room and updated bathrooms.
Inola High School (Inola, Okla.): Known as the “Hay Capital of the World” and home of the Longhorns, Inola, Oklahoma embodies the heart and soul of small-town Friday night lights football. The funding would not only breathe new life into the football program by replacing badly worn turf but would also replace and upgrade workout equipment and gear used daily by hundreds of students. The equipment has endured countless games and supported all Inola athletes since the 1980s, and updates would ensure that future generations of athletes can pursue their dreams with pride.
Loveland High School (Loveland, Colo.): Known as the “Outdoor Sculpture Capitol of Colorado” and home to the Red Wolves, the team is seeking vital infrastructure upgrades to the field’s lighting, bleachers and sound system that will completely transform their athletic departments and allow the Red Wolves the ability to host home games that will bring the entire Loveland community together.
Manchester West High School (Manchester, N.H.): Based in southern New Hampshire, the Manchester West Blue Knights seek to make an even bigger impact on the field and community with the addition of home and visitor facilities, a new sound system, a weight room renovation and new community green space, all while still providing resources to youth football players to support the future of the game.
Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf (Faribault, Minn.): Hailing from Faribault, Minnesota, the MSAD Trojans are all about school spirit, with students from all corners of Minnesota coming together to achieve their goals and prepare for life after graduation. The Trojans are seeking a new scoreboard to provide better accessibility for deaf spectators, new bleachers, a new concession stand and upgrades to both the team and visitor locker rooms.
Paradise High School (Paradise, Calif.): Located in northern California, the Paradise Bobcats and community show resiliency, determination and heart as they continue to rebuild after the devastating Camp Fire in 2018. Rebuilding the concession stand, upgrading the lighting, ADA access and improving parking and seating would make a tremendous difference to the school and community.
Ridgeview High School (Redmond, Ore.): Located in central Oregon, Ridgeview is home to beautiful, majestic mountain views in Oregon’s high desert. The region is a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Ridgeview High School says it would greatly benefit by being able to create an improved game-day experience for athletes, fans and guests.
Saks High School (Anniston, Ala.): Located just east of Birmingham, Alabama, the Saks Wildcats have a need to improve outdated seating, install energy-efficient lighting and create ADA-compliant areas so they will be ready to tackle adversity head on and lead the team to more victories.
Salisbury High School (Salisbury, N.C.): As the second oldest functioning school building in North Carolina at 99 years old, Salisbury would be able to upgrade the current lighting system on the field, so it is safe and welcoming for all who use it, whether for athletic competitions, community gatherings or youth programs.
Superior Junior/Senior High School (Superior, Ariz.): Centered in a small mining town east of the Phoenix, the Superior Panthers understand the hard work and determination it takes to lead their community to victory. Upgrades to the fields, lights and a new weight room would make a huge impact on the school and community.
Ware Junior/Senior High School (Ware, Mass.): With a town population of approximately 10,000, the school’s upgrade would provide much-needed support to a small, proud and high-achieving football community that could greatly benefit from updated lights on the field and provide the necessary resources to start the process of improving the fan experience with more seating and permanent bathrooms.
Warren Central High School (Bowling Green, Ky.): Home of the fire-breathing Warren Dragons, this football team is resilient, dedicated and ready to go for victory, seeking upgrades to its weight room, press box technology, scoreboard and team meeting spaces for all student-athletes and coaches across all sports programs to benefit from.

An additional 300 schools each walked away from Friday Night 5G Lights with $5,000 through T-Mobile’s $5K Fridays. The giveaway — which totals $1.5 million — ran through the competition’s six-week entry period to give high schools nationwide some extra cash for the project of their choice.

Choosing the Champion

Now, you — yes, you, America — have the power to help crown the winner. Here’s how. From now until Nov. 12, anyone in the U.S. can head to www.FridayNight5GLights.com to learn more about the Top 16 high schools and their stories via a 90-second Instagram video from each finalist. Just hit that heart on your favorite school and your vote is in.

There is no limit to how many times you and your community can share the video on all your social channels, so start spreading the word for your favorite school! The high school with the most-liked video will be crowned as the ultimate Friday Night 5G Lights champion and score the grand prize package. Results will be announced in early December.

In addition to the Instagram video, each school will participate in a day of giving back to a local food bank before Nov. 12. Through its partnership with Feeding America, T-Mobile will help identify local food banks near each of the Top 16 schools to host these drives. According to Feeding America, some of the most severe levels of food insecurity are found in rural communities — 9 out of 10 counties with the highest rates of food insecurity are rural. This effort not only combats food insecurity in communities near each of the Top 16 finalists, but also boosts team spirit as students work together to make a difference.

“It’s been incredible to see the excitement and community spirit pouring in from schools all over the country,” said Rob Gronkowski. “Friday nights truly unite people and watching the creative ways people show their school pride has been amazing. I can’t wait for the next stage of the competition and to see how the Top 16 finalists step up their game for their shot at the grand prize.”

T-Mobile’s Ongoing Commitment to Small Towns

Showing love to small towns is nothing new for T-Mobile. Since its 5G for All commitment to bring the most advanced wireless services to rural America in April 2021, T-Mobile has made incredible progress as the nation’s largest and fastest 5G network.

T-Mobile has invested over $14 million in small towns across the nation through Hometown Grants and has connected over 6 million students through Project 10Million, T-Mobile’s $10.7 billion initiative offering connectivity for eligible student families across the country. The Un-carrier has also opened nearly 600 stores in small towns while expanding its network to bring more than 500,000 square miles of 5G coverage to rural areas — now covering more than 98% of Americans across 2 million square miles. Plus, T-Mobile 5G Home Internet and Business Internet give homes and businesses across the country access to reliable and affordable broadband options.

Friday Night 5G Lights is yet another way T-Mobile is strengthening its connection with small towns, bringing communities together under the bright lights of local football fields while showcasing the power and potential of 5G.

Learn more and cast your vote by visiting www.FridayNight5GLights.com.

Follow @TMobileNews on X, formerly known as Twitter, to stay up to date with the latest company news.

SR Tigers Keep Rollin’ With 52-6 Homecoming Win Over Lavaca

Networks

Adam Hecox

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11:44 am

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SR Tigers Keep Rollin’ With 52-6 Homecoming Win Over Lavaca

The Mansfield Tigers beefed up their nonconference schedule in 2024, hoping it would prepare them better for their grueling 3A-1 conference slate. After winning only one of their three nonconference games, those hopes seemed pretty futile. Although Mansfield only lost two of their nonconference games by a combined total of five points, the team still saw their hopes of being better in 2024 slipping away. Knowing that the Tigers would start 3A-1 conference play against three programs that made the State Playoffs in 2023, there was even more concern. Instead of wallowing in self-pity though, the Tigers pulled up their big boy pants and went to work. A 36-6 blowout win over Sebastian County rival Hackett was nice, but more was needed. Mansfield then went to Charleston and beat the five-time State Champion Tigers on their home turf for only the fourth time in 20 years. The two big-time victories set up a critical game against the Lavaca Golden Arrows on Friday, October 11th where both the Tigers and Golden Arrows looked to remain undefeated in conference play.

The Tigers started the game by kicking the ball off to Lavaca and shipped out their defense to get a jump start on the Golden Arrows’ potent offense. Lavaca averaged 22.8 points per game against some stiff competition leading up to the matchup so the question was, could Mansfield keep the Golden Arrows air raid offense grounded? It didn’t look very promising at first as the Tigers allowed a four-yard run on the opening play then followed that up with a defensive offsides penalty to give Lavaca a third and short opportunity. The Golden Arrows then zipped a pass downfield for a 25-yard completion, but Andrew Burton and Samuel Burton laid down the boom on the Lavaca receiver forcing a fumble that was quickly recovered by Zander Walters. With the Tigers now in possession of the football, Mansfield was ready to roll with their ground-and-pound offense to wear down Lavaca. The Tigers started with a four-yard run up the gut by Andrew Burton, but on the next play from scrimmage, Trey Powell traded in the ground and pound tactic for a need, a need for speed that is. Powell took the pitch from quarterback Jeremey Strozier and screamed downfield for a 63-yard Tiger touchdown. Samuel Burton tacked on the two-point conversion giving Mansfield a fast 8-0 over Lavaca. Lavaca was able to put together an eight-play 46-yard drive on their next possession but stalled out turning the ball over on downs. The Tigers offense didn’t slow down any on the ensuing drive as Jeremy Strozier read the defense perfectly and kept the ball for a 40-yard run which helped set up a pass from Strozier to Samuel Burton for a 12-yard Tiger touchdown. Andrew Burton powered into the endzone for the two-point conversion to push the score up to a 16-0 Mansfield lead.

Lavaca was undefeated going into this game though and would not go down easily. The Golden Arrows took over the ball and quickly proved that they could change a game in just one play. The Golden Arrows quarterback heaved a pass downfield and landed a 54-yard touchdown after a wobble and bobble of the ball by the Lavaca receiver in tight coverage. The Golden Arrows went for a two-point conversion, but the pass was incomplete setting the score at 16-6 in the first quarter. Lavaca opted for the onside kick to try and gain more momentum, but Dalton Knowles scooped up the grounder and made his way downfield to set the Tigers’ offense up at the 35-yard line. The Tigers put the ball in the hands of their entire backfield as Andrew Burton, Trey Powell, Samuel Burton, and Jeremy Strozier took turns to drive the ball down to the one-yard line before Strozier pushed his way into the endzone for a Tiger touchdown. Andrew Burton tacked on the two-point conversion to boost the Tigers lead up to 24-6. That score wasn’t good enough for the Tigers though as Andrew Burton smoked the Lavaca returner on the ensuing kickoff creating a fumble that was recovered by Trey Powell. Mansfield’s Samuel Burton would get the final carry of the first quarter where he gained seven yards which set up the Tigers at the 23-yard line to start the second quarter.

With a commanding 24-6 lead at the end of the first quarter and in prime position for another score, Mansfield was looking to put the game away before halftime. It took the Tigers just three plays to get into the endzone again as Andrew Burton pushed a four-yard carry and was followed up by Samuel Burton darting 15 yards to set the ball at the one-yard line. With just a yard to go, the Tigers put their trust in the hands of a defensive lineman, yes defensive lineman. Senior Dakota Deer lined up in the offensive backfield for the first time ever and didn’t disappoint as Deer plowed in for a Tiger touchdown. The two-point conversion was no good, but Mansfield still was running away with the scoreboard with a 30-6 lead. Dominance can only be defined in a football game if both the offense and defense can put points up. Mansfield’s Matthew Burton accepted that challenge. On the second play of Lavaca’s next drive, Burton bulldogged the ball out of the hands of a Golden Arrow running back and steamrolled downfield for a 46-yard Tiger strip and score. Samuel Burton added the two-point conversion to the scoreboard pushing the Tigers into mercy rule territory with a 38-6 lead. The game went into a short streak of poor plays for both teams as Lavaca punted on a three and out and Mansfield coughed up a fumble, but that was short-lived as Mansfield corrected their course on a twelve-play drive that was capped off by a Jeremy Strozier to Andrew Burton pass for a 14-yard Tiger touchdown. The Tigers couldn’t get the extra point attempt, but the route was still on as both teams went into halftime with Mansfield leading the Golden Arrows 44-6.

With a massive lead and a running clock in effect, the Tigers looked to close the game out with some new faces on the field. With a small roster that was already hit heavily by the injury bug, the Tigers subbed in to gain some more experience for the team as a whole. Mansfield started the second half with the ball and ate up almost the entire third quarter on offense by running the ball for short chunks of yards. Trey Powell lit up the final light bulb on the scoreboard with an untouched 14-yard scamper into the endzone for a Tiger touchdown. Samuel Burton added on the two-point conversion to set the score at 52-6 in Mansfield’s favor. The Tigers subs on defense looked just as good as the starters as they forced a punt on Lavaca’s ensuing drive. On offense, Cooper Edwards stepped in at quarterback and ran the Tigers offense like a five-star general. Sophomore linebacker, Dalton Knowles, was converted into a running back at halftime and made the best of his opportunity busting loose a couple of solid runs on the Golden Arrows. Another sophomore to touch the ball for the first time and was successful at doing so was Chandler Whisman. When the clock struck 0:00, it was the Mansfield Tigers who stood tall in every aspect of the game with a 52-6 homecoming victory over Lavaca.

The Tigers victory sets their overall record at 4-2 and keeps them with an undefeated 3-0 record in conference play. Mansfield has outscored their opponents by half going 214-107 on the scoreboard. With their two losses against Bismarck and Lamar coming by a combined five points and outscoring their conference opponents by a total of 130-51, it’s hard to see how the two nonconference losses negatively affected the Tigers. It may prove that it made them even better. The Mansfield Tigers now sit at the top of the conference with the Booneville Bearcats as the only two undefeated teams in 3A-1 play. Even though many fans are looking forward to the clash of two 3A-1 titans on October 25th, the Tigers are merely looking at who’s next on the schedule. Mansfield will travel north into Pirate Country to take on Cedarville this upcoming Friday in what has historically been a hostile territory for Mansfield. Cedarville may be having a rough go at things in the first half of their 2024 season, but the Tigers aren’t going to look past a possible Pirate trap.

Bulldogs Improve to 6-0

Ross Fujibayashi

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1:50 am

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An offensive explosion and defensive stands were a plenty in Greenwood’s 62-7 defeat of Siloam Springs in 6A West Conference action. The #1 ranked Bulldogs were able to extend their win streak to 19 games Friday night. Coming into the night, the Bulldogs scored 39 touchdowns with only two not coming from the offense. Tonight, they added nine more.

Siloam Springs took the opening kick but were halted offensively by Seniors Paul Brixey and Mark Garretson with tackles for a loss. The Greenwood offense went to work after the Panther punt, a long touchdown pass to Senior Isaiah Arrington was negated by a penalty. Junior Kane Archer got his first of the school record tying 7 touchdowns, on a pass to Senior Grant Karnes. The Hudson Meeker point after was good putting the Bulldogs up 7-0. Siloam Springs next drive would end in a punt pinning the Bulldogs deep into their own territory. Kane Archer would find Senior Isaiah Arrington from 71 yards out pushing the Bulldog lead to 14-0 with 5:52 left in the first quarter. The Panthers attempted to go to the air on their drive and found a waiting Senior Radley O’Neal who would intercept the Siloam pass. Archer would find classmate Cooper Goodwin for what seemed like a touchdown after a long run by Goodwin. A penalty brought the play back. It would take only a little bit of time for Archer to find Junior Champ Davis for the touchdown. Greenwood 21 Siloam Springs 0, with 3:45 left in the first. Siloam would get some momentum, getting a first down, then running out the remaining minute on the quarter.

Facing fourth down the Panthers attempt a fake punt early into the 2nd quarter, only to run into Senior Cash Archer, setting the Bulldogs up in Siloam territory. Kane Archer would find Champ Davis for a second time in the game for the touchdown. 28-0 with 11:02 left in the half. The Panthers continuing their running attack that gave them momentum in the first quarter was halted by defensive stops by Seniors Gage Hanna and Kaylor Jasna. The Panthers went for it on fourth down and found a wall of Bulldogs turning the ball back over to the Bulldogs. Kane Archer went to Isaiah Arrington again, and after some moves, Arrington got into the end zone putting the Bulldogs up 35-0. On the Panther’s next drive, they were halted by a Cash Archer sack turning the ball over to Greenwood. To the air the Bulldogs went with Archer passing to an open Junior Cooper Bland, the score now at 42-0 after the point after attempt. Siloam’s next possession ended in a punt after tackles for a loss from Gage Hanna and Senior Eddy Castelo. Kane Archer found Champ Davis for the third time making the score 49-0 with 2:19. On the ensuing kickoff, the Panther returner would break free only to be stopped by Sophomore kicker Landon Franklin. The tackle stopped the Panthers attempt at a touchdown. Siloam would try to run and pass to get in the end zone on the final two minutes of the half settling for a Field Goal. The kick was blocked by Greenwood and spun on the ground at the 10-yard line before it was picked up by Radley O’Neal. The return was stopped just short of the midfield stripe.

Greenwood received the opening of the second half. Maddox McCallip would lose the football on a run turning the ball over to Siloam. Siloam, on their next drive, broke a 53-yard run to get on the board 7-0. Junior Goodwin came in at quarterback and quickly got to work finding Senior Hudson Meeker for the touchdown 55-7 in the third quarter. Siloam ran out the rest of the 3rd quarter clock.

Siloam punted on their next drive. After giving the ball back, Goodwin took the ball in for the game’s final score. 62-7

“Really proud of them. We have really high expectations for our kids and I thought they delivered tonight.” Head Coach Chris Young said following the game. “They came out and offensively, we scored on every possession for the second week in a row.”

Junior Kane Archer tied a 2007 Tyler Wilson record of seven touchdowns that was set in a second-round playoff game against Pulaski Academy. In that game the former Bulldog and Razorback went 30 of 54 passes for 450 yards to beat the Bruins. That night both teams threw for a combined 1004 yards with a score of 57-50. In contrast, Kane Archer was 16 of 21 for 347 yards in just the first half of play.

Greenwood is at home next week at 7pm against Lake Hamilton.

State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Terry Rice

News

Tammy Teague

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7:06 pm

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State Capitol Week in Review From Senator Terry Rice

Legislative budget hearings have begun at the state Capitol, in preparation for the 2025 regular session that begins in January.

Members of the Legislative Council and the Joint Budget Committee will review in detail every state agency spending request. In November the governor will submit a balanced budget proposal, which will be a starting point in writing budgets for state government. According to the Arkansas Constitution, the legislature has the final say in all fiscal decisions.

The Senate and House Education Committees completed a vital first step in the budget process. They recommended a 2.48 percent increase in all the various categories that make up foundation school funding.

Public school funding is the starting point in the legislative budgeting process because the Constitution mandates that the state provide all children with an adequate and equitable education.

The state Supreme Court has ruled that the legislature’s constitutional duty is to fund an adequate education system. Legislators must first determine how much money is needed for education, rather than simply funding schools based on how much the state can afford after it has funded other programs.

Arkansas operates under a balanced budget law known as the Revenue Stabilization Act, which requires state agencies to reduce spending if tax revenue declines due to an economic downturn. The importance of school funding was reaffirmed in 2003 when the legislature passed the so-called “doomsday law” that protects school funding from budget cuts.

State government in Arkansas spends more than $39 billion a year. More than $6.3 billion comes from state revenue sources such as sales taxes, individual income taxes and corporate income taxes. The largest single expenditure of state tax dollars will go to public schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Last year that was $2.57 billion.

State agencies will spend more than $12 billion in federal funds. Last year most of that amount, about $7.4 billion in federal funding, went to the state Human Services Department for Medicaid and other health services. State government paid for about $1.8 billion of the DHS budget.

The state collects about $894 million in special revenues, which come from taxes levied for special purposes. The Transportation Department maintains highways and bridges and collects about $673 million in special revenue from motor fuels taxes and fees.

Colleges and universities receive about $783 million in state aid. They generate an additional $5.4 billion in cash funds, derived from tuition and fees. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has the largest source of cash funds, raising about $2.5 billion a year.

The University of Arkansas at Fayetteville generates about $1.3 billion in cash funds, compared to $212 million it receives in state funding. Arkansas State University at Jonesboro generates about $224 million in cash funds and receives about $63 million in state aid.

Last year the state spent $568 million on corrections, including $25.8 million paid to counties for holding state inmates in county jails. State prisons also generated about $40 million in special revenue and cash funds from their farm and industry operations. In all, the total operating budget for corrections was $662 million. That included the costs of supervising parolees who had been released early from prison.

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