Resident News Network

Saving More Than Structures: Hackett Firefighters Train in Overhaul

Featured

-

9:47 am

Saving More Than Structures: Hackett Firefighters Train in Overhaul

The Hackett Fire Department recently completed specialized training in fire overhaul under the instruction of Todd Johnson. According to guidance from the Arkansas Fire Academy, overhaul refers to the crucial phase after a fire is knocked down, when firefighters search for hidden hot spots, remove burned materials, and protect a property from rekindling. It also includes salvaging belongings whenever possible—an often overlooked but deeply meaningful part of the job.

Todd Johnson, AFTA adjunct II instructor, speaks on the importance of overhaul.

“It’s often one of the most overlooked yet vitally important parts of what we can do for a property owner,” said Hackett Fire Training Officer Todd Johnson. “It may be an old photo or a special item we can retrieve for them that means so much. I know a lot of departments may not do it, but if we are the primary department, we will be performing overhaul.”

The 16 hour training course ensures that Hackett firefighters are prepared not only to extinguish fires safely and effectively, but also to help homeowners preserve what they can during some of their most challenging moments.

A New, Exciting Era: Magazine Declares For 8-Man Football

Sports

Resident News Network

-

8:59 am

0

A New, Exciting Era: Magazine Declares For 8-Man Football

By Jonathan W. Gipson
MAGAZINE SCHOOLS MEDIA RELATIONS

An exciting new era of Magazine football will begin next fall as the Rattlers will take the field for their first season of 8-man football competition.

Magazine is one of six schools that have officially declared their intentions to compete in 8-man football next fall, joining former 2A-4 Conference opponent Johnson County Westside, Izard County, Rose Bud, Corning, Blevins and Lafayette County.

“I’m excited for our student-athletes to continue competing at a high level and showcasing their talents in a different format,” Magazine coach Ryan Chambers said. “Eight-man football is gaining traction in Arkansas, and we are excited to compete this upcoming fall.”

Only Class 2A schools and below are eligible to compete in Arkansas Activities Association-sanctioned 8-man football.

The AAA today released the updated football classification and conference alignments for the upcoming 2026-28 cycle. There will be 20 teams throughout the state competing in 8-man football with those teams being divided into three conferences – West, East and South.

Magazine will compete in the West Conference with Guy-Perkins, Izard County, Johnson County Westside, Rose Bud and Southside Bee Branch.

The East Conference will consist of Augusta, Brinkley, Cedar Ridge, Corning, Marvell, Midland and Rector. The South Conference will consist of Blevins, Dermott, Friendship Aspire, Hermitage, Lafayette County, Strong and Woodlawn.

Magazine will look to continue its proud tradition of success built during its recent history as an 11-man football program.

After more than a 60-year hiatus, Magazine restarted its football program in the fall of 1993. During the past 33 seasons, the Rattlers earned four conference championships, won one state championship and finished as state runner-up.

Eight-man football has increased in popularity in Arkansas, particularly among small rural schools, since it was revived in 2021 as a sanctioned sport after not being officially played in the state since 1964.

Since then, the number of teams competing in 8-man football has increased by more than 200 percent.

Eight-man football is a fast-paced, high-energy and exciting brand of football that emphasizes speed, space and opportunity. This transition allows student-athletes to compete and develop.

The format also produces higher scoring games than traditional 11-man football, with scores typically falling in the 40-60 point range, and high-scoring games can reach into the 70s. Some games have even seen individual teams score 100 points. This offensive explosion makes for thrilling, back-and-forth contests that keep fans engaged.

Despite having fewer players, 8-man football features diverse offensive formations and strategies—from spread offenses to power running games to option attacks. Coaches can be creative with their approach, and the reduced player count actually allows for more innovative play-calling and misdirection.

The combination of wide-open spaces, high scores and dynamic athletes creates an entertaining spectacle that’s particularly well-suited for fans who enjoy offensive fireworks and big plays.

“Football is so important to our community. No other event brings more people together than our football team. That speaks volumes to me,” Magazine alumnus, former Rattler football player and Magazine Mayor Josh Scott said. “I’m excited that we have the option. I’m excited that we still get to play football. We have amazing kids in our school, and I’m excited to support them as we step off into 8-man football.”

Obituary: Brooklyn Lawson (1990-2025)

Obituaries

Resident News Network

-

8:13 am

0

Brooklyn Kay Lawson, age 35, of Waldron, Arkansas, passed from this life on December 18, 2025, in Waldron. She was born June 5, 1990, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to David Lee Lawson and Gay Annette (Morran) Lawson.

Brooklyn was a beautiful soul whose presence brought warmth, smiles, and love to those around her. She lived her life surrounded by a family who cherished her deeply and made sure she always knew how loved she was. Brooklyn shared a special bond with her family, especially her grandparents, Danny and Kay Morran-her beloved Pawpaw and Mawmaw. She was truly Pawpaw’s Darling, a title she wore proudly and lovingly.

She is survived by her father, David Lawson; her mother, Gay Lawson; and her stepfather, Billy Lunsford, all of Waldron, Arkansas. She also leaves behind her treasured grandparents, Danny and Kay Morran of Parks, Arkansas; her aunts, Casey Wilder of Manila, Arkansas, Judy Self and Debbie Taff, both of Waldron, Arkansas; her step-sister, Kallie Houston; and her precious nieces, Josie, Kandice, and Macie, who brought her great joy. Brooklyn is also survived by her close cousins: Daniel, Charlye, April, Travis, Beverly, Renee’ and Nikki as well as many extended family members who loved her dearly and will forever hold her memory close.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents; her paternal great-grandparents; and her maternal great-grandparents, who surely welcomed her home with open arms.

Brooklyn found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved swinging, listening to music, and collecting musical snow globes that filled her world with melody and comfort. Blue was her favorite color, and her favorite song, “Just a Swingin’,” perfectly reflected her gentle joy and love for music. Brooklyn had a way of touching hearts without ever needing words, and her smile could brighten any room.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas.

A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Konnor McKay, Rev. John Elmore, and Travis May officiating. Interment will follow at Sehorn Cemetery near Waldron, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be David Lawson, Travis Taff, Wes Nelson, Billy Wayne Lunsford, Daniel Taff, and Dakota Taff.

Brooklyn’s life was a gift, her love was constant, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Scott County Quorum Court Approves Key Measures, Announces Bridge Grant and Interim Assessor

Insider

Cassie Coben

-

8:57 am

0

Scott County Quorum Court Approves Key Measures, Announces Bridge Grant and Interim Assessor

This content is reserved for RESIDENT INSIDER members.

Please login or subscribe to view.

Local Leaders and Hunters Unite to Support Senior Citizen Centers Through Holiday Deer Hunt and Donations

News

Resident News Network

-

3:44 pm

0

Local Leaders and Hunters Unite to Support Senior Citizen Centers Through Holiday Deer Hunt and Donations

A renewed spirit of cooperation and compassion is taking shape this holiday season as local leaders and residents come together to support area Senior Citizen Centers through both a charitable deer hunt and direct financial donations.

The initiative, titled Deer Hunting for a Greater Purpose, will take place December 26–28 and invites hunters to donate harvested deer to help provide meals for seniors across the district. One hundred percent of each donated deer will benefit local Senior Citizen Centers. After bagging and tagging a deer, hunters are asked to deliver it to J&D Custom Meat Processing, located at 3825 Boone Rd. in Greenwood, where the meat will be processed and distributed to the centers.

To ensure the program’s success, community members have stepped forward to cover processing costs so that no financial burden falls on the Senior Centers themselves. Wade Dunn has committed to covering the processing fees for the first 10 donated deer, while Adam Watson will cover the next 10. J&D Custom Meat Processing has also agreed to process the meat at a significantly reduced rate of $40 per deer, making the effort both efficient and impactful. Organizers say additional sponsors, processors, and donors are welcome to join in and help expand the reach of the program.

Watson said the idea grew out of recent conversations about the growing challenges facing Senior Citizen Centers. “We heard about issues facing our local Senior Centers from the panel last week at Resident News Network’s event in Booneville,” Watson said. “No one’s pretending this solves the problem, but it’s a creative way to help. If others want to get involved, we can work toward making it a regular thing.”

Alongside the deer hunt, direct financial assistance is also being provided to address immediate needs that food donations alone cannot solve. Ted Tritt announced he will donate $250 to each Senior Citizen Center within the district after learning more about the financial strain centers are facing.

“Like many in our community, I was deeply concerned to learn of the serious challenges currently facing our Senior Citizen Centers,” Tritt said. “Even when food is available, it does little good if meals cannot be prepared because centers are struggling to meet basic payroll obligations. My hope is that this donation will help address urgent needs while complementing other charitable efforts already underway.”

The state senate candidates involved in the effort emphasized that the initiative is not about politics, but about people. The combined approach—providing both nutritious food through the deer hunt and immediate financial relief through donations—reflects a broader commitment to supporting seniors with dignity and care.

While organizers acknowledge that no single effort will solve the long-term funding challenges facing Senior Citizen Centers, they agree that working together across communities and campaigns is a meaningful step forward. As one supporter noted, when neighbors come together with creativity and generosity, real help reaches those who need it most—especially during the holiday season.

Obituary: Mark Massongill (1964-2025)

Obituaries

Resident News Network

-

2:04 pm

0

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mark Henry Massongill, age 61, who left this world peacefully on December 13, 2025, in Beauchamp, Arkansas. Born on September 28, 1964, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Benjamin Loyd and Shirley Jean (Johnson) Massongill, Mark lived a vibrant life filled with passion, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and pursuits.

An avid outdoorsman and thrill-seeker, Mark found joy in riding his side-by-side on rugged trails, hunting in the serene woods, and competing on the dirt tracks in IMCA Modified races. His talent behind the drums brought rhythm and energy to those around him, sharing his musical gift with friends and family.

Above all, Mark was a devoted family man. He shared a deep and enduring love with his wife, Marlene, celebrating 43 years of marriage. He was a proud father to his daughter, Nicole Cue, and his greatest source of happiness was his eight grandchildren: Benjamin Jr., Trenton, Hayden, Caydance, Colton, Tacee, Addy, and Autumn. They were truly the light of his life, bringing him endless joy and pride.

Mark was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Massongill; his sister, Teresa Bouchard; and his parents, Benjamin and Shirley Massongill.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marlene; his daughter, Nicole; his cherished grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

The family is considering a private celebration of life at a later date and will share details if arrangements are made. In this time of grief, we remember Mark’s kind heart, adventurous spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and profound dedication to those he loved. His legacy will live on in the stories shared, the trails blazed, and the hearts he touched.

May he rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Waldron School District Holds Regularly Scheduled Meeting

News

Resident News Network

-

2:55 pm

0

Waldron School District Holds Regularly Scheduled Meeting

The regular monthly meeting of the Waldron School Board was held in the Central Office Building Monday, December 8, 2025; at 6:30 p.m. Board members present were Clay Woodall, Angela Hunsucker, Konnor McKay and Toni VanDewiele. Board member Mac Davis was not present for the meeting. Others present were Superintendent Daniel Fielding, Misty Owens, Kim Solomon, Chelsea Ridenhour, Erica Richardson, Marissa Lunsford, Riley Manning, Kristi Sigman, Tonya Cluck, Zack Taylor, Josh Atchley, Chris Lipham, Brittany Maine and Toni Dozier.

President Clay Woodall called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.

Konnor McKay began the meeting with a word of prayer.

Angela Hunsucker led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Public comment was made by Marissa Lunsford, a concerned parent, addressing bullying in the school.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Angela Hunsucker to approve the Consent Agenda items: A) Approval of the November 17th Minutes; B) Approve Financial Reports and Expenditures. Motion carried 4-0.

Each of the principals reported on what is happening at their school, with each principal reporting that interim testing is wrapping up with great achievements. Mrs. Solomon reported that Parent Night will be December 11th with Christmas Breakfast the following morning. She also informed the board that ABC students will be going to Dalton’s Place on December 18th to sing carols and then to the movies on the 19th to see The Grinch. Mrs. Richardson announced that the 3rd grade had a successful Literacy Night, GT took a field trip to the see a movie last week and the 4th grade Christmas program was amazing! Thank you, Mr. McBride, for all your hard work with the Christmas program. Mr. Taylor reported that the Christmas choir concert will be Thursday night with 126 choir members performing from grades 6th-12th. The band will be performing their Christmas concert Monday, December 15th. Archery competed at Charleston last Friday and finished in 3rd place, then competed on Saturday in 3D. Both Middle and High Schools are gearing up for semester tests next week. Mr. Atchley reported that both Jr. High and Sr. High Choirs will be attending the State Capitol Tuesday, December 9th. Mr. Atchley also reported that there are 11 seniors that scored Platinum on the Work Kays assessment. High School GT took a field trip to the ice-skating rink in Y-City. Sr. High Band and Choir will be marching in the Christmas parade on Saturday night. Several Art achievements and awards were mentioned as follows; VFW Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest, David Garcia won Local, District and 2nd Place at State, Scott County Fair (Grand champion and Judge’s Grand Honor Award), David Garcia and Jayce Powell, (Judge’s Grand Honor Award), Destiny McCafferty, Carmen Carrillo, Ashadan Poor, Kylie Norris, Kylie Hamner, AR-OK State Fair (Grand Sweepstakes), Kira Salmon, Cossatot Arts and Crafts Show (2nd Place), Ragean Long and Brian Scott, Sold Art Work, David Garcia, Honorable Mention; Shiloh Newlin, Ester Sung, Destiny McCafferty, Kira Salmon, Ashadan Poor and David Garcia.

Athletic Director, Chris Lipham, reported that the Arvest Invitational is underway this week. The State Cheer competition is Saturday, December 20th. Fall Sports banquet will be Tuesday, December 9th. Basketball girls’ and boys’ teams will be in tournaments over Christmas break at different locations. Substitute bus drivers are still needed if anyone is interesting contact Central Office for an application.

Superintendent Fielding took his time to update the board on the roofer’s progress at Elementary and Middle Schools. He also recognized the principals for the progress made on interim test scores.

A motion was made by Konnor McKay and seconded by Toni VanDeWiele to adjourn. Motion carried 4-0.

Meeting adjourned at 6:46 p.m.

Obituary: Marie Carnahan (1928-2025)

Obituaries

Resident News Network

-

2:48 pm

0

Marie Carnahan of Packsaddle, AR, known as Granny, not only to her 34 grandchildren, but to many other children and adults, went quietly to be with Jesus, her beloved Lord and Savior, December 11, 2025. Marie, 97 years old, was born in Little Rock, AR on January 10, 1928, to Pete and Iva Zimmer.

She was a faithful lifelong member of Packsaddle Church where she was “Granny” to all. She was an exemplary Proverbs 31 wife and mother; her children and grandchildren all arise and call her blessed. All her children, grands, greats, and great greats were loved by their Granny and knew of her love and prayers for them.

Her favorite hymn was Blessed Assurance, and her favorite verse was Galatians 6:9, “Do not be weary in well doing, for you shall reap in due time, if you faint not.” She stayed busy in “well doing.” She was blessed with a servant’s heart and generous spirit of hospitality. She was a great cook, remembering everyone’s favorite dish, never failing to prepare it for her visitors. She loved to garden and plant flowers; we called her the original “cabbage patch doll.”

She loved to read and study her well-worn Bible, and attend church and Bible studies. She loved to quilt and made a special quilt for each of her grandchildren and great grand children.

Her husband, Richard and her son, Randy, her son in law, Larry Ward, her parents, her sister Louise Garrick, and her brothers Perry, Lynell, and Robert Zimmer have all preceded her in death.

She is survived by her son, Gary (Lin) Carnahan, her daughter Pam Ward, her beloved Daughter in law Janet Carnahan, her nine grandchildren, Holly (Sam) Sellers, Elisabeth (Rick) Proenza, Daniel (Dallas) Carnahan, Natalie Jean Marie (Evans) Baggs, Kayce (Harold) Peters, Kelley (John) Hale, and Bryan (Sally) Carnahan, her eighteen great grandchildren and nine great, great grandchildren, her brother Amos Zimmer and many other dearly loved members of her large extended family.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday afternoon, December 14, 2025 at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, AR. A celebration of life service will be held at Packsaddle Community Church at 1:00 p.m. on Monday afternoon, December 15, 2025 with Rev. Jeff Wilkinson officiating.

Memorial gifts may be made to Packsaddle Community Church.