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2023 Scott County Rodeo Royalty

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Tammy Teague

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5:45 pm

The 2023 Scott County Rodeo Royalty Pageant will be held at the Scott County Rodeo Arena on June 1 at 6 p.m. The following are the pageant contestants:

Buckaroo Contestants:
Paisley Jo Jeffrey
Paisley is the 3 year old daughter of Brandy Jeffrey of Waldron, AR. Her favorite color is pink
and her favorite animal is the horse. Currently, her favorite hobby is going to tumbling class.
Paisley hopes to work at the vet clinic someday like her mama. When asked about participating
in the rodeo pageant last year, she confidently answered that her favorite part was…. “the
popsicles.” Her pony Tina Turner agrees.
Cora Bohanan:
Cora is the 3 year old daughter of Kyle and Malena Bohanan of Waldron, AR. Cora loves to start
the weekend with pink pancakes with sprinkles and chocolate milk on Saturday mornings. She
loves riding and petting her horses, June and Pinto Bean. Her favorite pastimes area splashing
in the creek and mud puddles, feeding all of her animals and shopping with mommy.
Aubree Cox
Aubree is the 4 year old daughter of Colton and Hannah Cox of Charleston, AR. She has 2 dogs,
Doz and Augie and a horse named Magic. She attends Branch Church of Christ in Branch.
Aubree loves to play outside in the mud with her dogs.
Levi Parnell
Levi is the 1 year old son of Victoria and Jesse Parnell of Vandervoort, AR. He loves playing in
the mud, feeding his goats, chickens and cows. He also enjoys helping his mom and gram plant
the garden and flowers. He also enjoys riding the tractor with his dad and riding horses with his
Aunt Maggie.
Little Miss Contestants:Dallie Mathews
Dallie is the 8 year old daughter of Buck and Anne Mathews of Waldron, AR. She not only loves
barrel racing, team penning and roping but also playing softball. She has 3 horses, Salty, George
and her main stick Brandy. If she’s not riding or playing softball she is definitely pestering her
little sister Clancy! Dallie is sponsored by Mathews Custom Meats in Waldron, AR.
Callie Myers
Callie is the 8 year old daughter of BJ and Beth Myers of Waldron, AR. Callie is an active
member of Westark Horse Show Association and was the pony all around High point champion
for 2022. She attends Waldron Elementary School. She enjoys riding her horses and raising
corgis. When she grows up she wants to be a teacher. Callie is sponsored by her parents, BJ & Beth Myers.
Layla Willson
Layla is the 7 year daughter of Ronnie and LaTisha Willson of Mansfield, AR. She loves riding
horses with her mom and brother. She also enjoys gymnastics and softball. She lives on a farm
and like to help do farm chores, especially helping her mom with her beehives. Layla is sponsored by Saddle Up Tack Shop in Greenwood, AR and Steven Layne Properties, LLC in Mansfield, AR.
Rockie Moore
Rockie is the 8 year old daughter of Travis and Crystal Moore of Waldron, AR. She rides her
horse almost daily and is responsible for the care of her horse Socks. Her hobbies include
spending time in the barn with “Socks” and mini cow “Luna”. She plays basketball and softball,
but her favorite times are playdays and rodeos. Her dream is to be a farmer raising cattle and
horses. Rockie is sponsored by her aunt, Beverly Rush.

Princess Contestants:
Julia Skulman
Julia is the 12 year old daughter of Rob and Shirley Skulman of Fort Smith, AR. She is an honor
roll student and cheerleader at Chaffin Middle School in Fort Smith. She also plays basketball,
tumbles and rides horses. Julia’s connection to Scott County runs deep on her mother’s side of
the family. Her great-great grandfather, Tom Gray, was the mayor of Waldron for 15 years and
is remembered as a kind, gentleman citizen. He and his wife, Beulah attended the Methodist
church with their many children and grandchildren. Julia’s great grandfather is the late I.T.
“Buddy” Gray, and her late grandmother is Helen Rawlings Gray. Their eldest daughter, Lois
Gray Wade, is her only living grandparent. Further Scott County roots extends to Dutch Creek
where her late grandfather Jerry Wade is the son of Gladden and Ocia Wade. Julia’s paternal
grandparents are the late Walt and Delores Skulman of Ozark. Julia has a special bond with
horses since she was a toddler and always dreamed of owning a horse. Christmas Eve, 2021,
was when her dream came true and her parents found a beautiful, sweet palomino, Pistolena
Chic, who needed a little girl. You’ll often find Julia not only riding Chic, but grooming her,
playing with her and just chilling out laying across her back as if Chic was a lounge chair! These
two just seem to trust and completely get each other. Julia and Chic participate in the Royal J
Legends, the Greenwood Roundup Club, Stigler Oklahoma Round Up Club, A-OK barrel racing, Lavaca Southern Fringe barrel series and other rodeo and barrel events in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. Julia is sponsored by Carly & Company in Fort Smith, AR.
Camryn Huschka
Cami is the 13 yr old daughter of Ryan and Hilary Huschka of Dayton, AR. She is excited to be a
member of the Scott County Rodeo Royalty this year. Cami is new to horses and has been riding
for 2 years. She is very proud of her horse, Tortilla. Tortilla is a 5 year old Cayuse Indian horse.
Cami enjoys spending her free time working her horses, volunteering for Urban Acres Horse
Sanctuary and trail riding. Cami is sponsored by Urban Acres Horse Sanctuary and trail riding. She is also sponsored by Sebastian Interiors, Milltown Valley Meats, Chaffee Nutrition, Saddle Up Tack shop, Greenwood Air, Leaonette’s Style Shop, Chance Howard Farrier Services, Pure Country Bling, 71 Express, Mama’s Log Cabin, MadHappy Designs, Greenwood Nutrition Den, Heidi Wubbels, Big Red Realty, ENJAY Livestock, Ralls Family, Alicia Kirkpatrick, Grandma Rox & Hot Dottie.
Grace Shrum
Grace is 11 year old daughter of Ericka and Nate Shrum of Mansfield, AR and Candace and
Brock Grouse. She enjoys playing with her cousins, riding horses, hog hunting, playing softball,
basketball and swimming. Her favorite holiday is the 4th of July. When she grows up she wants
to be a teacher. A fun fact about her is she has 34 first cousins. Grace is sponsored by RB Transport in Waldron, AR and Brent Mays Pumping in Mansfield.
Brenlei Mirus
Brenlei is the 14 year old daughter of Kayla Walston of Hatfield, AR and James Mirus of
Mountainburg, AR. She will be a freshman at Mena High School this fall. Brenlei enjoys riding
horses, hanging out with friends and family and showing animals. Her future goals are to go to
college to become a large animal veterinarian. Brenlei is sponsored by Hornet Tire and Automotive in Cove, AR.
Lexi Escalanta
Lexi is the 12 year old daughter of DJ Escalanta and Brittany Willet of Mansfield, AR and Rosie
Samo and Jeremy Southerland of Panama, OK. She goes to school in Panama, OK and is in the
7th grade. Her hobbies are spending weekends playing fast pitch softball with her travel team
and riding her horse “Lilah.” When Lexi grows up she wants to be a vet. Lexi is sponsored by her parents, DJ Escalanta and Brittany Willet.

Queen Contestants:Vivian Holmes
Vivian is the 18 year old granddaughter of Tina and Leonard Holmes of Waldron, AR. She will
begin college this fall at UA Rich Mountain where she plans to obtain an associates in general
science. After obtaining that degree she plans to transfer to UAFS to further her education in
dental hygiene. As a senior at Waldron High School, she was the captain for the basketball team
and part of the FFA horse judging team. She was also a member of BETA, FCA and Talent
Search. In her free time she enjoys swimming, spending times with her friends and teaching her
dog, Skip new tricks. Vivian is sponsored by R&H Body Shop in Waldron, AR.
Haley Myers
Haley is the 15 year old daughter of BJ and Beth Myers of Waldron, AR. She is a 9th grader at
Waldron High School. Her interests include basketball, barrel racing and bull riding. She was the
2022 Crossroads Cowboy Church Champion Jr barrel racer, the 2022 DD Rodeo Co. Champion
14-19 steer rider and is a member of the Women’s Professional Bull riding Association.
Haley is sponsored by her parents, BJ and Beth Myers.
Sadie Espinoza
Sadie is the 15 yr old daughter of Kandy and Ramon Espinoza of Waldron, AR. Sadie is involved
in her youth church group at Haw Creek Baptist church. She loves all sports. She plays
basketball, volleyball and runs track for Waldron High School. She also plays travel basketball
with her Intensity team. When not on a court or track field, she can be found horseback,
roaming the bottoms along the river. She is competing on her palomino “B”, but back at home
is red mare “Diamond and new colt “Maverick”. Sadie wants to thank everyone who bought
tickets and supported her during this pageant. Sadie is sponsored by Southside Vet Clinic in Waldron, AR.

Sr. Queen Contestant:Aubrey Gaines
Aubrey was born in California and moved to Arkansas less than a year later. She has lived in or
near Waldron for the last 18 years. She loves her family, horse, “Boo”, the Lord and her
amazing fiancé Grady. She has been working with her mare for 4 years now and can’t wait to
see how well they do together in the arena. Aubrey is sponsored by Allen Mechanical Services in Waldron, AR

The Scott County Rodeo will be held on June 2, and 3.

It’s #2 Arkansas at #12 Vanderbilt For the SEC Regular Season Championship

Sports

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4:29 pm

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It’s #2 Arkansas at #12 Vanderbilt For the SEC Regular Season Championship

NASHVILLE, TN – Sitting alone atop the SEC standings with three games left to play in the regular season, No. 2 Arkansas (38-13, 19-8 SEC) ventures east to No. 12 Vanderbilt (35-16, 17-10 SEC) with a prime opportunity to clinch the program’s fourth overall conference championship.

First pitch in the series opener between the Hogs and Commodores at Hawkins Field is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, May 18, on SEC Network with Tom Hart (play-by-play) and Chris Burke (analyst) on the call. Game two is 7 p.m. Friday, May 19, on SEC Network, while the regular-season finale gets underway at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20, on SEC Network+.

Arkansas enters the final weekend of the regular season with a one-game lead over No. 4 Florida (40-12, 18-9 SEC) in the SEC standings. The Razorbacks, who lead No. 5 LSU (39-12, 17-9 SEC) by 1.5 games in the SEC Western Division, can clinch a share of the overall SEC title with two wins and win the conference outright with three wins at Vanderbilt.

Schedule

Thursday, May 18

#2 Arkansas at #12 Vanderbilt – 6 p.m. – SEC Network – Listen – Live Stats

Friday, May 19

#2 Arkansas at #12 Vanderbilt – 7 p.m. – SEC Network – Listen – Live Stats

Saturday, May 20

#2 Arkansas at #12 Vanderbilt – 2 p.m. – SEC Network+ – Listen – Live Stats

On the Mound

Thursday, May 18

Arkansas – LHP Hagen Smith (7-1, 2.47 ERA)
Vanderbilt – RHP Patrick Reilly (3-2, 6.43)

Friday, May 19

Arkansas – TBA
Vanderbilt – LHP Devin Futrell (6-3, 2.93)

Saturday, May 20

Arkansas – TBA
Vanderbilt – TBA

Tune In

Tom Hart and Chris Burke will be on the call for all three games of this weekend’s series in Nashville. Thursday and Friday’s contests will be broadcast on SEC Network, while Saturday’s regular-season finale will stream on SEC Network+.

The entire series can also be heard on the Razorback Sports Network from Learfield, including locally in Fayetteville on 92.1 FM or through the Razorback app, with Phil Elson on the call. A full list of radio affiliates is available here.

History Lesson
Arkansas is 34-31 all-time against Vanderbilt, including a 14-13 record in games played in Nashville. Under head coach Dave Van Horn, the Hogs are 21-24 overall with a 7-10 on the road against the Commodores since 2003.

The Hogs, 5-5 in their last 10 games against the Commodores, have not won a regular-season series against Vanderbilt since 2017 at Baum-Walker Stadium. Arkansas, which has played six road series against Vanderbilt since Van Horn’s first season as head coach, owns a 3-3 series record in Nashville, including series wins in 2004, 2006 and 2010.

Here’s the Situation
For Arkansas entering this weekend…

* Two Arkansas wins would clinch a share of the SEC title; three would win outright.

* If Arkansas and Florida finish in a tie atop the standings, both would be considered co-champions. Tie would only be broken for SEC Tournament seeding purposes.

If Arkansas goes 2-1…

* Arkansas and Florida would be co-champions if Florida goes 3-0.

* Arkansas would be champion if Florida loses at least one game.

If Arkansas goes 1-2…

* Florida would be the outright champion with three wins this weekend.

* Arkansas and Florida would be co-champions with two Florida wins and one LSU loss.

Machine of Consistency
Under head coach Dave Van Horn, Arkansas has won 18 or more SEC games for six consecutive seasons.

2017: 18-11 SEC record

2018: 18-12 SEC record

2019: 20-10 SEC record

2020: N/A

2021: 22-8 SEC record

2022: 18-12 SEC record

2023: 19-8 SEC record

Since Van Horn’s first season in 2003, Arkansas has won 18 or more SEC games 11 times. LSU is the only other team in the SEC to post at least six consecutive seasons of 18 or more SEC wins, doing so in 10 straight seasons from 1996-2005.

With just one win this weekend at Vanderbilt, the Razorbacks can secure their 20th conference win of the campaign. Arkansas has won 20 or more SEC games just three times since 1992, the team’s first season competing in the SEC.

1999: 22-8 (SEC champions)
2019: 20-10 (T-1st SEC West)
2021: 22-8 (SEC champions)

Hagen on the Hill

Arkansas pitcher Hagen Smith will start his third consecutive series opener, getting the ball in Thursday night’s game against Vanderbilt. The left-hander was the Razorbacks’ No. 1 starter to begin the year but transitioned to a “wild card” role due to early-season injuries to the team’s pitching staff.

For the year, Smith has made 14 appearances with eight starts, including four in SEC play. He is 7-1 with a team-leading 2.47 ERA and two saves over 58 1/3 innings of work on the mound. The true sophomore has struck out a team-high 86 batters and limited opposing hitters to a meager .184 batting average.

Three of Smith’s four SEC starts this season have come on the road. In his last SEC road start, Smith spun five innings of two-run ball at Mississippi State on May 5, matching his season high with eight strikeouts to earn the win.

For complete coverage of Arkansas baseball, follow the Hogs on Twitter (@RazorbackBSB), Instagram (@RazorbackBSB) and Facebook (Arkansas Razorback Baseball).

– ArkansasRazorbacks.com || On Twitter @ArkRazorbacks || Facebook.com/ArkansasRazorbacks

Note to Our Readers: The previous story was sourced directly from the University of Arkansas Office of Communications, Oliver Grigg.

Four Ways to Use Cash Wisely

Tammy Teague

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11:24 pm

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There has been a lot of talk about a “cashless” society, but it’s not here yet. In fact, cash
can still be a valuable element of your overall financial picture – if you employ it wisely. But
how?
Consider these four key uses of cash:
• Everyday spending – Of course, you need sufficient cash on hand to pay for your cost
of living – mortgage, debt payments, utilities, groceries, etc. You’ll likely rely on your savings or
checking accounts to pay for these needs.
• Unexpected expenses and emergencies – It’s never a bad idea to establish a monthly
budget. But, as you know, life is unpredictable – and sometimes you may encounter “budget busting” expenses, such as a major home repair or a large medical bill. If you haven’t planned
for these costs, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments, such as your IRA
and 401(k), which can result in taxes, penalties and less money for your retirement. A better
alternative is to prepare in advance by building an emergency fund containing up to six months’
worth of living expenses in cash, or at least in a highly liquid account, held separately from your
regular checking or savings account so you won’t inadvertently spend the money.
• Short-term savings goal – When you are investing for a long-term goal – especially
retirement – you will likely need to own a reasonable percentage of growth-oriented vehicles,
such as stocks and stock-based mutual funds. The value of these investments will fluctuate, so,
if it’s possible, you’ll want to avoid selling them when their price is down – which may make
them unsuitable for short-term goals. But if you’re aiming for a goal that you want to achieve in
a year or so – a wedding, a long vacation, and so on – you’ll want to be sure a specific amount
of money is there for you when you need it. Consequently, you’ll want to put away cash for this
type of goal, possibly in a short-term savings or investment vehicle that might pay somewhat
higher interest than a regular checking/savings account.
• Source of investment – In regard to your longer-term investment strategy, cash can
play two important roles. First, it can serve as its own asset class, alongside other classes, such
as stocks and fixed-income vehicles. Unlike these other classes – especially stocks and stock based mutual funds – cash won’t fluctuate in value, so it can potentially help lessen the impact
of market volatility on your portfolio. And second, having the cash available in your portfolio
gives you the opportunity to quickly take advantage of other investment opportunities that may
occur. And you may be able to use your existing investments to help replenish the cash in your
portfolio. For example, if you choose to take stock dividends in cash, these dividends can be
“swept” into your brokerage account and held there until you’re ready to invest them. (However,
depending on your comprehensive financial strategy, it may be a good move to simply reinvest
the dividends into the same stocks or stock funds.) Keep in mind that you won’t want your
investment accounts to contain too much cash, as its purchasing power can erode due to
inflation.
By managing your cash efficiently, and putting it to work in different ways, you can gain
some key benefits – and you’ll help yourself to keep moving toward your short- and long-term
goals.
This article is provided by Jeffrey O’Neal, Financial Advisor
Edward Jones
20 N Express St, Paris, AR 72855
479-963-1321
jeffrey.o’neal@edwardjones.com
edwardjones.com/jeffrey-o’neal
Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Area Students Explore the Universe

Featured

Tammy Teague

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11:21 pm

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Students from several area schools have been exploring space travel and the universe through the
Young Astronauts program. The program, developed by Guy Fenter Education Coop Science
Specialist’s Amber Cobb and Dr. Curtis Varnell, introduces k-2 students to the basic science
concepts involved in space travel. Students explore the forces of gravity and the requirements
for astronauts to enter space as they prepare to launch space rockets that they assist in designing.

Once in space, they learn that loss of gravity had dramatic effects as they learn how astronauts
sleep, eat, and adapt to a trying environment. Students try out space food in the form of space
ice cream and learn to drink tang from an enclose bag and through a straw in order to prevent it
from drifting about the space craft.
As part of the program, students study rocketry by launching several classroom rockets and
engineering the rockets so that they can fly longer distances and land on designated islands (hula
hoops). The culminating activity allows students to explore the space environment by donning
space suits complete with helmets and gloves and trying to perform work in a zero-gravity
simulated setting. An important portion of the program involves learning about the role(s)
women now play in space exploration- including the fact that many women serve as engineers as
well as astronauts. The program has also been adapted and used by older students who design
and launch two-liter water rockets.
The program, funded with a grant from AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and
Astronautics) and NASA, the program has impacted the study of aeronautics and astronomy
throughout the region. Area schools participating in the Young Astronauts program include Van
Buren, Clarksville, Waldron, Paris St. Josephs, Franklin County Montessori, Hackett
Elementary, County Line Elementary, and Magazine. Other schools are scheduled for the fall
semester.

Timepiece: Old South Restaurant

Featured

Tammy Teague

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11:13 pm

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

World War II had ended and the age of the automobile was in full swing. All across America,
new style, pull-in restaurants were being constructed to cater to the needs of the modern traveler.
Along major highways, restaurants entrepreneurs constructed sleek new buildings with large
parking lots to accommodate families as well as the truckers who frequented the roads. Neon
lights flickered in the darkness to attract those who wanted twenty-four around the clock service.
Booths built around lacquered colorful tables allowed groups to sit comfortably while they
ordered and consumed the “special” of the day or the centerpiece food offered by the café. Many
of the restaurants expanded, offering their brand of food to the hungry highway travelers.
McDonalds, Hardee’s, and Dairy Queen became household names with stores along every major
thoroughfare.

Most Arkansans have fond memories of stopping in at AQ chicken or Minute Man and enjoying
time and a meal with family. Minute Man, developed in Arkansas, was known for fast service
and for their “radar” microwaved deep dish hot pies. AQ was a one of a kind chicken palace and
just the thought of those delicious hot buns and chicken cooking bring back childhood and
nostalgia for what is perceived a better and slower pace of life.
Many of those stores have gone the way of the dinosaur. Minute Man, once consisting of a chain
of 57 stores is down to one remaining at last count. A/Q recently closed its Springdale store and
ended a business that lasted three-quarters of a century. Other chains have adapted to the times,
destroyed the old type buildings, and replaced them with a modern design.
A few of those old time road house type stops still exist. A visit to the Old South restaurant in
Russellville is like a step-back into time. The neon lights still flash, the booths are still sleek and
waiting, and the country-style food is delicious. Build in a modular style in 1947, the building is
a part of local history and lore and is on the national register of historic places. Advertised as
serving two presidents and a king, one quickly recognizes which one people most identify with.
Elvis busts and pictures adorn the walls. The Old South once served a venue of deep fried food
including the fried honey bun and deep fried pickles. If Elvis wasn’t attracted by those, he
certainly could not have resisted the turtle pie, a local favorite still served today.
The Old South is located highway 64. The highway was once the most direct route from the east
to the west coast, connecting with route 66 in Tulsa. Famous travelers were attracted to its food
as well as to its never-closed venue. Bill Clinton was fond of the food offered there and
President Jimmy Carter once stopped in for a meal. Famous entertainers that visited included
Ernest Tubb, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash but it was the common working guy stopping in for
breakfast, coffee, or a delicious evening meal that has kept it open through the years.
Today, the Old South Restaurant looks virtually the same on the exterior and interior as it did
when constructed in 1947. It has a streamlined design, large rounded front windows, padded
booths, and lots and lots of neon lights. The menu still offers many of the same items that were
included in the original store. Visiting the place is like a step into the past with travelers and
working people enjoying coffee, pie, and conversation. The prices are reasonable and the
nostalgia is free.

Magazine High School Holds 2nd Annual Rattler Scholars Banquet

Featured

Tammy Teague

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4:57 pm

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Magazine High School Holds 2nd Annual Rattler Scholars Banquet

Seniors James Haugh, Brayleigh McCubbin, Trace Nicholas, and Adalyn Staton

By Brandy Young

Magazine students, parents, and school staff gathered on Monday, May 15 for the 2^nd Annual Rattler Scholars Banquet. This program rewards students in their freshman through senior years who have maintained a GPA of 3.5 or higher each semester. 43 students were recognized for their academic success this year and were presented with certificates and gifts to celebrate their achievements. This year’s guest speaker for the event was Dr. Brian Sheppard.

Dr. Brian Sheppard addresses his Alma mater

Dr. Sheppard was born and raised in Magazine, Arkansas, and is an Alumnus of J.D. Leftwich High School (now Magazine High School), Class of 2001. He earned his Doctor of Clinical Christian Counseling Psychology in 2009 from Emmanuel Baptist University in Wilmington, North Carolina. He is a licensed Family and Marriage Therapist with the American Christian Therapist Society. In 2006 he received an Honorary Doctor of Divinity, conferred at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C. He owns Sheppard and Associates, LLC, a Christian Mental Health organization that offers therapy, counseling, and Church consultations. He is also the Senior Pastor of Park View Baptist Church in North Little Rock.

Freshman Mattie Terry with her 1st-Year Scholar tee

Sophomores Briare and Trinidy Harding with their 2nd-Year Scholar gifts

In 2020 “Doc Brian,” as he is known, became a mental health influencer on TikTok and Instagram, and launched a podcast, Doc Talks with Dr. Brian Sheppard, produced by SoundLounge Studios New York, NY. He has over 90 virtual properties encompassing nearly 10 million followers. In 2023 he will launch a web series and virtual content with Lifeword Media Ministries. Lifeword will broadcast his content in 147 languages with a potential listening audience of 3 billion people.

Dr. Sheppard spoke to the audience about the importance of kindness and the huge impact it can have on an individual, a community, and the world. He quoted Maya Angelou in stating, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” He also spoke about the removing the stereotypes surrounding mental health, assuring the students that no matter the path they are on, or how their plans may change, “you will survive, and you will make it through.”

“What a privilege to speak to the Rattler Scholars this year!” stated Sheppard. “So much has changed since I was a student, and the facilities are impeccable. I hope that everyone was encouraged and reminded that if we want to change the world, it starts with us being kind.”

Dr. Sheppard currently resides in North Little Rock with his wife, Jennifer, and son, Luke.

Lady Tiger Softball Team Headed to State Finals

Sports

Tammy Teague

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4:26 pm

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Lady Tiger Softball Team Headed to State Finals

Mansfield High School’s softball team earn their ticket to the class 2A state finals with a 14-4 semi-final win over East Poinsett County.

The sound of thunder this past week wasn’t completely from the rainstorms that covered the area in recent days. Much of it was from the hot bats swung by Mansfield’s state finals bound Lady Tiger softball team.

With a 14-4 beat down of East Poinsett County on Saturday, May 13, Mansfield now packs its collective bags for a trip to the 2023 class 2A softball state finals to be held at the University of Central Arkansas.

Brooklyn Adams of Mansfield sets up to receive a pitch from Alyson Edwards in the state semi-finals softball game versus EPC.

“We have played some of our best ball in the tournament thus far,” said Mansfield center fielder Natalie Allison. “We’re hitting the ball well and our defense is on point.”

Allison, a senior with big time game experience under her belt, was obviously elated as were her Lady Tiger teammates, coaches, and fans.

Mansfield hammered home 28 runs in the first three rounds of the class 2A state tournament held in Greenland on May 11-13. After a close 4-3 victory over the Bigelow Panthers in game one, MHS heated up with 24 runs over the next 2 days and 12 innings. That included a quarter-finals 10-3 victory over the McCory Jaguars.

Alyson Edwards checks the dugout for a pitch call.

“Right now we are zoned in and playing the best ball we have played in our softball career,” expressed Brooklyn Adams after the semi-final game versus EPC. “I’m so proud of my teammates and the family we have made this season.”

Adams plays catcher for the Lady Tigers and recently committed to play softball next season for Carl Albert State College.

Sophomore second baseman Trinity Triska scans the field versus EPC in the class 2A state tournament.

Battery mate Alyson Edwards has been in the circle throughout the state tournament. Not only has her command of the pitches held opponents to four scores or less through the first three rounds, her bat has sizzled too.

In the semi-finals matchup against EPC, Edwards launched a three run rocket over the left field fence to put Mansfield firmly in control.

“Alyson is doing a great job pitching as always,” pointed out Allison about her junior teammate. “She really does bring us the momentum for the game. We always want to back her up the best we can.”

Senior Natalie Allison runs the base path putting pressure on the EPC defense.

Sophomore second baseman Trinity Triska confirmed the same sentiments as her older senior teammate as it pertains to backing up teammates. It was Triska that scored the 14th run for Mansfield ending the semi-finals game with a run rule decision in the bottom of the sixth inning.

“It’s always good to know you have your team behind you on the field and cheering for you in the box,” expressed Triska. “We’ve created a bond that helps us stay encouraging and fun to be around yet stay disciplined.”

Mansfield started the season with a modest 4-3 record. Early losses came against seasoned teams with high caliber pedigrees. Since that time the softball group ran their record to 25-3 behind conference, district, and regional championships before entering the state tournament.

Now, the team stands with 28 wins against still only 3 losses. They look for one more victory to complete a dream season that’s been under construction for three years.

This is the second time in three years that Mansfield has advanced to the state finals. In 2021, the Lady Tigers dropped a 4-3 heartbreaker to Tuckerman to finish state runner-up. In 2022, Melbourne got hot and ended the Lady Tigers tournament stay in the quarter-finals.

“This is our revenge season with last season not ending the way we planned,” confessed Allison who has already been to four state finals through volleyball and softball over her high school career.

“We are proud to make it back to the finals,” continued Allison. “Almost all of the team and I have been in the state championship position before. We know how to get things done under pressure and hopefully we bring home another state championship trophy for our town.”

Adams is one of 16 players on the softball roster to have at least one or more championship ring. She, like her many teammates, knows experience and family atmosphere goes a long way.

“I couldn’t ask for a better group of girls to play my last high school season with,” spoke Adams. “We’re all thankful for the community’s support all throughout our season.”

Mansfield will face the Riverside Rebels out of Lake City in the championship game. The Arkansas Activities Association, as of press time, had yet to announce the day and time for the class 2A title match. The AAA will release the finals’ schedule after reviewing graduation dates for all teams involved in championship games across all 6 classifications.

Mansfield softball is under the direction of third year head coach Donnie Eveld. Eveld was recently voted as the 2A-4 conference softball coach of the year. He is assisted by three-time state volleyball coach Kaylie Pyles.

Click it or Ticket Campaign Reminds Drivers: Buckle Up May 22-June 4, and Everyday

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Tammy Teague

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4:08 pm

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Click it or Ticket Campaign Reminds Drivers: Buckle Up May 22-June 4, and Everyday

The Arkansas law enforcement community is urging motorists to buckle up during the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) national Click It or Ticket high-visibility enforcement effort. The national seat belt campaign, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, runs from May 22 to June 4, 2023.

“We want seat belt use to be an automatic habit for drivers and passengers alike,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar. “It’s not only the safe thing to do — it’s the law. During the Click It or Ticket campaign, we’ll be working with our fellow law enforcement officers across local and state lines to ensure the message gets out. Buckling up is the simplest thing you can do to limit injury or save your life during a crash. We see the results of not wearing a seat belt all the time. We see the loss of life. So often, tragedy could have been prevented by just wearing a seat belt.”

According to NHTSA, there were 11,813 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in the United States in 2021. In that same year, 57% of passenger vehicle occupants killed at night (6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m.) were not wearing their seat belts. That’s why nighttime enforcement is an important focus of the Click It or Ticket campaign. Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, writing citations both day and night.

No matter the type of vehicle you’re driving in or the type of road you’re driving on, the best way to stay safe is to wear your seat belt. Unfortunately, many families are suffering because their loved ones neglected to follow this simple step. In fact, 228 of the Arkansas motorists killed in 2021 were not buckled up. Additionally, NHTSA data show that seat belt use is higher among females than males. In fact, nearly twice as many males were killed in crashes as compared to females in 2021. Of the males killed in crashes during that same year, more than half (54%) were unrestrained. For females killed in crashes, 42% were not buckled up.

“If the Click It or Ticket enforcement effort alerts people to the dangers of not wearing a seat belt, we’ll consider our mission a success,” said Colonel Hagar. “If you know someone who does not buckle up, please ask them to consider changing their habits. Help us spread this lifesaving message. Seat belts save lives. Remember to buckle up.”

For more information on the Click It or Ticket mobilization, please visit NHTSA.gov/ciotor call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136, and go to https://www.tzdarkansas.org/ to learn about Arkansas’ Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities.

Hogs’ Hollan Throws Complete Game, Wins Weekend Series Over South Carolina, 5-1

Sports

Resident News Network

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6:50 am

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Hogs’ Hollan Throws Complete Game, Wins Weekend Series Over South Carolina, 5-1

FAYETTEVILLE – Hunter Hollan threw a complete game gem to lift No. 3 Arkansas (38-13, 19-8 SEC) to a 5-1 series-clinching win against No. 6 South Carolina (37-14, 15-11 SEC) on Sunday afternoon at Baum-Walker Stadium.

With the win, the Hogs secured their seventh SEC series victory of the season and improved to 30-4 at home this year.

Hollan struck out a career-high 10 batters, limiting the Gamecocks to just one run on five hits and one walk. The left-hander threw a season-high 113 pitches in his nine-inning complete game and recorded 19 consecutive outs until a two-out single in the top half of the ninth inning.

The performance marks the Razorbacks’ first complete game of at least nine innings against an SEC team since Dominic Taccolini’s 10-inning complete game shutout against Kentucky in 2016. Hollan is the second Arkansas pitcher to throw a complete game this season after Will McEntire twirled a nine-inning complete game against Louisiana Tech on April 11.

South Carolina’s lone run of the game came via a leadoff home run in the top of the third. Hollan was untouchable from that point forward, however, allowing the Arkansas offense to hit its groove and take control of the ballgame.

John Bolton’s one-out RBI double to right center in the bottom half of the third tied things at one apiece before Parker Rowland’s go-ahead two-run single to center in the fifth. Rowland’s clutch piece of hitting put the Hogs ahead, 3-1.

Arkansas tacked on two more runs with a two-out RBI single by Caleb Cali in the sixth followed by a two-out solo home run by Ben McLaughlin in the eighth, extending the lead to 5-1. Cali and Peyton Holt both finished with a team-leading three hits, and Rowland collected the Razorbacks’ lone multi-RBI performance of the game.

The Hogs’ four-run lead was more than enough for Hollan to protect as he finished off his complete game with a scoreless ninth inning, securing the Razorbacks’ series-clinching win and put the Hogs in the driver’s seat of the SEC.

Arkansas now owns a one-and-a-half-game lead over LSU in the SEC Western Division and a one-game lead over Florida in the overall SEC standings with three games left to play in the regular season.

Up next, the Hogs will travel to Nashville, Tenn., to close out the regular season at Vanderbilt. First pitch between the Razorbacks and Commodores is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, May 18, on SEC Network.

For complete coverage of Arkansas baseball, follow the Hogs on Twitter (@RazorbackBSB), Instagram (@RazorbackBSB) and Facebook (Arkansas Razorback Baseball).

– ArkansasRazorbacks.com || On Twitter @ArkRazorbacks || Facebook.com/ArkansasRazorbacks

Note to Our Readers: The previous story was sourced directly and in its entirety from the University of Arkansas Office of Communications, Oliver Grigg.

2022-2023 Athletic Awards Revealed at Booster Show

Sports

Tammy Teague

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1:44 am

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2022-2023 Athletic Awards Revealed at Booster Show

T. Franklin Boyd Tigers of the Year Drew Elmore and Natalie Allison are seen after the 2023 MHS Booster Club Athletic Awards Banquet.

Master of ceremony, Travis Pettus, said “it’s been a pretty good year”. Seconds later, he corrected himself. “No, it’s been a great year.”

Those were among the opening remarks as Mansfield athletes and coaches gathered with Tiger fans at the 2022-2023 Mansfield Booster Club Athletics Awards Show on Tuesday, May 9.

Mansfield athletes share 128 individual awards at the recent awards banquet.

Following those opening remarks, Pettus was assigned the task of reading a review of athletic achievements to all Mansfield sports seasons. The lists of year end accolades were so long that Pettus was joined on stage by MHS alumnus Jordan Martin for the reading of the script. The two alternated announcing snippets of the year along with individual award winners such as All-District, All-State, and Players of the Year.

The presentation of awards concluded with special recognitions for Rising Stars, Continue the Race Scholarship, MAPY awards, and the T. Franklin Boyd winners among a few other highlighted moments.

For all the Tiger teams that competed in the 2A-4 Conference (3A-1 in football) this school year, the list of accomplishments was extensive. The team trophies by themselves included 2 state championships, 1 state runner-up, 4 state playoffs, 2 regional championships, 2 regional runner-ups, 2 final four, 9 district championships, and 4 district runner-ups. Individual accomplishments total 128 separate awards.

What’s perceived to be one of the highest honors among the individual awards was the T. Franklin Boyd Tigers of the Year. This school year the awards went to seniors Natalie Allison and Drew Elmore.

Allison landed multiple awards and state championships along her illustrious playing career. The senior had been recognized as a state MVP, All-District, All-Conference, All-State, and All-Star through her participation in volleyball, basketball, softball, and track.

Elmore garnered many of the same types of awards through an award winning stint in football, basketball, and baseball. This year in particular his play in all three sports stood out as effective and efficient.

The T. Franklin Boyd Tigers of the Year were selected via an extensive rubric. That rubric accumulated points for such things as sports participation, individual honors, and academic success.

Daniel Burton and Alyson Edwards are the first recepients of the Mansfield Athletics Player of the Year awards.

A new award added to this year’s ceremony was the MAPY Awards. The Mansfield Athletics Players of the Year were selected based upon a ranking system tabulated by a panel of coaches, faculty, administrators, event volunteers, and booster club representatives.

The presentation of the MAPY was based strictly on athletic appeal, presence, and star power. All high school grade levels across all sports were considered.

This year’s Mansfield Athletics Players of the Year were Alyson Edwards and Daniel Burton.

Edwards, a junior, was a three sport star that picked up state volleyball MVP honors as her team won their third consecutive state titles. She was the state volleyball MVP, and another leading candidate as the pitcher on this week’s state softball finals bound Lady Tigers.

Burton was an electrifying kickoff return man on the football field and a dynamic scorer on the basketball court. The junior showed a level of speed and explosiveness that stood out among league wide competition.

Ethan Martin and Kaylee Ward take home the freshmen Rising Stars awards.

This year’s Freshmen Rising Stars were Kaylee Ward and Ethan Martin.

The Rising Star awards go to outstanding freshmen that have made significant contributions to their school teams as voted on by the MHS coaching staff.

Ward was selected after fabulous seasons in volleyball, basketball, track, and softball. Having been elevated to the high school level in all of those sports, the freshman phenom was recognized as the River Valley Democrat Gazette Newcomer of the Year in both volleyball and basketball. She earned her way to the class 2A state track meet, and has recently started on the state softball team.

Martin was described as tough, calculating, and motivated. He was a four-sport star that made significant contributions to his junior high football, basketball, and track teams before moving up to the high school baseball team. Coaches shared that his athleticism, academic knowhow, and strength of character that set him apart.

Mansfield senior Madelen Jones is the first recepient of the Continue the Race: Kevin Mackey and Grayson Reese Memorial Scholarship as awarded by retiring Athletic Director John Mackey.

Also new to the athletic awards night was the introduction of the “Continue the Race” Scholarship. This educational endowment in memory of Kevin Mackey and Grayson Reese, respectively the nephew and great-nephew of Mansfield coach John Mackey, was awarded to Madelen Jones.

Jones was selected through an application process, and awarded a monetary sum to be applied to the postsecondary school of her choice.

The three time volleyball state champion described how athletics taught her life lessons, self discipline, and the ability to make hard choices. She described the necessity to balance athletic involvement around priorities such as academics and personal well-being.

Jones started the evening’s awards section with a speech offering her unique insight into Mansfield athletics. She recalled fond memories, recognized talented Tiger teammates, and offered sound advice on how to treat people and how to represent Mansfield in a positive way.

Special attention was given to four college bound seniors. Brooklyn Adams (Carl Albert), Natalie Allison (Henderson State), Braxton Byers (Hesston College), and Drew Elmore (Carl Albert) were all highlighted as Tigers moving on to the next level.

Five Mansfield coaches were also showcased as winning coach of the year honors. Ethan Bowman (girls basketball), Donnie Eveld (softball), John Mackey (cross country and track), Kaylie Pyles (volleyball), and Layton Robinson (baseball) were all awarded conference coach of the year plaques.

Mackey was also cited as the class 2A athletic director of the year. Pyles was also recognized as an AHSCA All-Star volleyball staff member.

Players of the year from each sport along with specific individual honors were announced over the two hour awards ceremony.

For the sake of brevity only the primary individual players of the year will be listed here. As of press time baseball and softball award winners were being held due to the unfinished state tournament.

Cross country: Laney Wood and Joey Williams.

Golf: Skylynn Harris and Bryson Elmore.

Cheer: Madelen Jones.

Volleyball: Natalie Allison.

Football: Daniel Burton, Drew Elmore, Fisher Willsey, and Tyler Woolbright.

Basketball: Kynslee Ward and Clint Stovall.

Track: Seven Sanderson and Ashton Hinkle.

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