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Lady Bulldog Softball Sends Three On Signing Day

Ross Fujibayashi
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Lady Bulldog Softball Sends Three On Signing Day

Three Greenwood Softball Seniors signed to further their college careers. Henderson State University got to double dip into the Sebastian County school netting Daisy Parker and Layken Dawson. Lyon College in Batesville picked up Alyssa Lovell.

“Three out of four signed to go play the next level. Just shows the amount of investment they put in their craft and how they work.” Lady Bulldogs Head Coach Donald Hart Said following the signing. “From an education standpoint, you know, they’re all getting an opportunity to get an education and play the game they love. So I think things are really awesome.”

Lakyn Dawson

The Greenwood Senior was a two-year starter for the Lady Bulldogs softball team with a .974 fielding percentage coupled with 148 put outs at first base. Alongside her time with the Greenwood Bulldogs, Dawson played four years with the Athletics National Team out of Northwest Arkansas. Lakyn’s brother Treyton Dawson, signed with the Henderson State Reddies for football in 2020.

“I was familiar with Henderson; I had been there a couple times because of him. [Treyton]” Dawson said on what drew her to Henderson State. “Then my parents’ kind of brought it up, and then Henderson actually reached out. I was like that would be cool if I got to follow in my brother’s footsteps.”

“He [Head Coach Joel Worthington] actually recruited me to be a first base for the Class of ’26, because their first baseman was graduating.” Lakyn Dawson said. “And he wanted it to be me. So, I thought that was pretty cool for him to say that, and I was excited for about.”

“I want to make sure that we do go a little bit further and stay.” Dawson said regarding the upcoming season. The Lady Bulldogs have finished with a Conference Championship the last two seasons but have found themselves with an early exit during the State Tournament. “It’s really important to me this year, so we finish up strong.”

Lakyn Dawson Photo by Peggy Barger

Daisy Parker

The other half of the Henderson State double-dip is Senior Daisy Parker. The future Ultrasound Tech plans to study Health Science or Pre-Med alongside her playing duties for the Reddies Softball team. A member of the same travel team with Lakyn Dawson, the Athletics National Team, Parker has played softball for fourteen years. In 2022, Daisy Parker was the Newcomer of the Year. For the 2024 season she garnered All-Conference and the Offensive MVP Award. Last Season she repeated the All-Conference honor and added All-State and All-Tournament Team. Going into the 2026 season, Parker is hitting .331 from the plate.

“The programs really great there. It felt like home and the culture there is great. But, yeah, I love it there.” Daisy Parker said of Henderson State.

“It’s great! I’m really really excited. It’s room with her, you know, another four years with her.” Parker talked about playing alongside longtime teammate Lakyn Dawson. “It’s awesome. Just having her by my side.”

“I obviously want to go out with a bang. Make some noise. I think this group is really talented. So, I’m super excited to se what we hold.” Parker said about the upcoming season. “Obviously would love another conference championship. But ultimately, we want to make it deep in the playoffs.”

Daisy Parker Photo by Peggy Barger

Alyssa Lovell

Lyon College broke the Henderson State stranglehold with their selection of Greenwood Senior Alyssa Lovell. A two-year starter at pitcher for the Lady Bulldogs, she earned a 9-2 record, pitching 75 innings with a 2.2 ERA. Lovell is carrying a 4.2 GPA with a 32 on the ACT that will translate into studying Pre-Medicine/Chemistry at the Batesville, AR school. Lovell is a two-sport athlete playing for the Lady Bulldog Volleyball team in the fall. She is a member of the Legends National 2026 team out of Northwest Arkansas.

“I went on my first tour, I got invited by a coach at the Senior Showcase. I happened to get a tour guide that’s in the same major that I was in.” Lovell said about going to Lyon College. “She was just telling me about all the opportunities I would have there, and I ended up really liking the campus and really liking the coaches. It just felt perfect.”

“I don’t feel that as much as I did last year, like stepping up for the first time. But I think it’s just cool that we have the opportunity to go as far.” Alyssa Lovell said about the upcoming season. “We’ve got a lot of underclassmen now, that I think are going to step up. So, it’s cool to see what we’ll do.”

Alyssa Lovell Photo by Peggy Barger

Piper Ames Signs With John Brown University

Ross Fujibayashi
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Piper Ames Signs With John Brown University

The John Brown University Golden Eagles doubled their Greenwood Bulldogs on their Cross-Country roster with the signing of Piper Ames.

A multi-sport athlete for the Bulldogs, Ames joins Paige Andrews next season. Ames was a two-time All-State selection and a two-time State Champion. Greenwood’s Cross-Country team has become a force when the State meet in Hot Springs comes around. For the 2025 season the Girls Cross-Country squad finished third in the state.

Piper Ames heads to the Siloam Springs, AR college not only running cross country but will run track as well. Ames brings a personal best of 20.03 in the 5K.

“Just the whole environment of the team and the coaches.” Piper Ames said about what drew her to John Brown. “I got to go this summer and do a camp there. And I got to experience what the team environment was like. The coaches and everything, and it’s just so amazing.”

“They’re so encouraging, and it reminds me a lot of just like the family we have in our Greenwood team.” Ames said.

“Both my parents have always encouraged me to just work hard and try my best and give glory to God in all that I do.” Ames said. “So that has really brought me to just give my all in cross-country and it’s truly led me to where I am today.”

The Golden Eagles finished third out of nine in the Sooner Athletic Conference Championship on November 8th.

SR Tigers Look To Move Past Being A “Semi” Good Team

Adam Hecox
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SR Tigers Look To Move Past Being A “Semi” Good Team
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Obituary: Kenneth Moore

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Obituary: Kenneth Moore

Kenneth Wayne Moore, a proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025, at the age of 62 in Mansfield, Arkansas. 

Kenny dedicated 12 years of his life to serving his country with honor and distinction. He was a valued member of the 296th Medical Company based in Charleston, Arkansas. During his time in service, Kenny achieved the rank of Sergeant and was known for his camaraderie. He was honorably discharged in April 1992. He served in Operation Desert Storm from 1990 – 1991. Kenny was awarded the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Component Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal and the Arkansas Service Ribbon during his service. 

After his military service, Kenny carried the values of duty and service into his civilian life. However, his greatest joy came from his family, especially his grandchildren. He could be found spending his time at the ball fields, cheering on his grandkids at their sporting events. He cherished these moments, and the sound of the game and laughter of his family were among his favorite things.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Lisa Moore; his children, David Moore and wife, Brittany and Steven Moore and wife, Brittany; his cherished grandchildren, Colton, Clayton, Raylyn and Asher and siblings, Debbie Thomas and husband, Barry, Sue Efurd and husband, Stanley and Danny Moore and wife, Marilyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Plaz and Lucille Moore and sister, Kathy Nelson. 

A family led memorial service with military honors will be 10 a.m., Wednesday, December 3 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. 

Honorary pallbearers will be Aaron Oliver, Tyler Oliver, Nathan Shrum, Mikey Robles, Jr. Niblett, Dustin Edwards, Mikey Phillips, Michael Oliver, Tyler Elmore and Coby Elmore. 

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made in Kenneth’s honor to www.christmashonors.org or the Greenwood Senior Activity Center, P.O. Box 1300, Greenwood, AR 72936.

Sweet Tradition: Subiaco Academy’s Famous Peanut Brittle Continues to Bring Community Together

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Sweet Tradition: Subiaco Academy’s Famous Peanut Brittle Continues to Bring Community Together

SUBIACO, Ark. — In the kitchen of Subiaco Abbey, where generations of Benedictine monks have prayed, worked, and served, another tradition has quietly simmered for more than 90 years — a tradition that crackles with the sound of roasted peanuts and the unmistakable aroma of caramelized sugar. This is the home of Subiaco Academy’s legendary peanut brittle, a confection that has become as much a part of the Academy’s identity as its education and monastic heritage.

Originally crafted in the early 1930s, the brittle was first made by monks as a small-scale fundraising effort to help support the Abbey and the Academy. Over the decades, the recipe has barely changed — and that’s exactly how fans of the sweet, crunchy treat like it. What began as batches mixed by hand in oversized copper kettles has now grown into one of the region’s most beloved holiday staples.

Brother Adrian, one of the longtime stewards of the peanut brittle tradition, says the popularity comes down to simple, honest ingredients and a lot of patience. “There’s no secret ingredient,” he said with a smile. “It’s just peanuts, sugar, corn syrup, and a great deal of care. The monks believed that if you’re going to make something, you make it well — and people taste that.”

The candy is still made in small batches, cooked slowly, stirred consistently, and poured out onto long tables before being broken apart by hand. The process is a blend of discipline and craftsmanship, mirroring the Benedictine values behind it.

Each fall, volunteers — monks, students, alumni, and community members — gather to help with production as orders pour in from across the state and beyond. Many buyers are longtime supporters who have enjoyed the brittle for decades, often sending it to family members as a holiday gift or stocking up for seasonal gatherings.

For locals, the sound of brittle cracking is nearly as familiar as the ringing of the Abbey bells. Students at Subiaco Academy often take pride in contributing to the effort, knowing that the beloved treat not only sweetens holiday tables but also supports programs vital to their school.

“It’s part of who we are,” said one Academy staff member. “It represents community, tradition, and the hard work that keeps Subiaco thriving year after year.”

The holiday season is the busiest time for the peanut brittle operation, with boxes shipped nationwide. Each one carries the same handmade quality and the same connection to the Abbey’s heritage.

As Arkansas families unwrap their brittle this year — whether for the first time or as part of a long-standing ritual — they’re enjoying more than just a candy. They’re savoring a small piece of Subiaco’s history, sealed with tradition, faith, and the warmth of a community that still believes in doing things the old-fashioned way.

Obituary: Esther Whedbee (1930-2025)

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Obituary: Esther Whedbee (1930-2025)

Esther Ivalee Whedbee was born on July 10, 1930, in Dayton, Arkansas, and passed away on November 28, 2025. The daughter of Edgar and Lucy Yancey, Ivalee came to know the Lord at a young age at Coop Prairie Presbyterian church in Mansfield. She was instilled with strength, strong faith, and a loving spirit – qualities that shaped the life she built and the family she treasured.

Those qualities shone especially bright when, at just fifteen and a half, she married her lifelong partner Charles on the day he turned seventeen. Their marriage of 77 years became a powerful testament to resilience and commitment. Together they created a home filled with warmth, devotion, and countless family memories.

Ivalee became a mother at eighteen with the arrival of her first child, Tommy. In time, she also welcomed twins, Barry and Pam, and embraced the role of motherhood with immense joy. A devoted helpmate as a preacher’s wife, Ivalee lived a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering support. She was also known for her strong will and honesty. Ivalee never hesitated to speak her mind, but she carried it with gentle humor and a good-heartedness that endeared her to all.

Ivalee was known for her delicious pecan pie, warm scones, and chocolate-covered peanuts. She loved homemade ice cream, ribs, and a fun game of Wahoo with her grandkids. Despite her beautiful snow-white hair, Ivalee never seemed to look her age. She carried a youthful spirit and appearance that left people guessing. 

Ivalee was a devoted wife and mother. For 77 years she shared a deep and abiding love for her husband Charles and together they created a warm and loving home. Ivalee is survived by two sons, Tom and wife Betty of Dayton, AR and Barry and wife Terry of Gilmer, TX; and one daughter Pamela Williams and husband Tom of Advance, North Carolina. Ivalee was not only a beloved mother but also a proud grandmother of 6 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister Imogene McAlister and husband Dan of Texarkana. She is preceded in death by her husband Charles, parents Edgar and Lucy Yancey, and sister Wilma Black and her husband Galen Black.

Arrangements and cremations are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Waldron, Arkansas. You may leave words of comfort and remembrance for Ivalee’s family by visiting: www.heritagememorialfh.com.

All those who were touched by her kindness and inspired by her faith are invited to join in remembering her at a memorial service to be held at Fellowship Baptist Church, in Witcherville, AR on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 4:00 pm with visitation after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Fellowship Baptist Church Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (111 College Road, Huntington, AR 72940).

Mansfield Trucks Past Bismarck To Earn Third Semifinals Appearance

Adam Hecox
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Mansfield Trucks Past Bismarck To Earn Third Semifinals Appearance
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Bulldogs Headed Back To State

Ross Fujibayashi
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Bulldogs Headed Back To State
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Arrest Reports 11/23/25

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Arrest Reports 11/23/25
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Winter Home Fire Prevention Tips

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Winter Home Fire Prevention Tips

Cold weather brings cozy nights, warm fires, and extra time spent indoors—but it also brings a spike in home fires. As heating systems, holiday décor, and electrical use increase, so does the risk. Here are essential winter fire prevention tips to help keep your home and family safe:

1. Heat Your Home Safely

  • Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn—furniture, curtains, blankets, and décor.
  • Plug heaters directly into wall outlets, not power strips or extension cords.
  • Turn off heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Have chimneys and wood stoves inspected annually to prevent creosote buildup.
  • Use a fireplace screen to catch flying embers.

2. Maintain Furnaces & HVAC Systems

  • Schedule a yearly furnace inspection to ensure safe operation.
  • Replace filters regularly to avoid overheating or airflow issues.
  • Keep flammable items away from the furnace or hot surfaces.

3. Be Smart With Holiday Lighting

  • Inspect holiday lights for frayed cords, damaged plugs, or broken bulbs.
  • Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
  • Use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors—they’re not interchangeable.
  • Turn off all holiday lights before bed or when leaving home.

4. Candle Safety

  • Use sturdy candle holders and place candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn.
  • Never leave burning candles unattended.
  • Consider flameless, battery-powered alternatives for worry-free ambiance.

5. Cook With Care

  • Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
  • Keep flammable items—towels, pot holders, packaging—away from heat sources.
  • Keep a lid nearby to smother small grease fires.

6. Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

  • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and in each bedroom.
  • Test alarms monthly.
  • Replace batteries twice a year and replace the entire unit every 10 years.
  • Install carbon monoxide detectors, especially near sleeping areas.

7. Practice Safe Fireplace & Wood Stove Use

  • Burn only dry, seasoned wood.
  • Store ashes in a metal container, with a lid, outside and away from the home.
  • Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids to start a fire.

8. Use Generators Properly

  • Never run a generator inside the home, garage, or any enclosed space.
  • Place portable generators at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents.

9. Create and Practice an Escape Plan

  • Make sure everyone in the home knows two ways out of each room.
  • Establish a family meeting spot outside.
  • Practice your escape plan regularly.

A Safer Winter Starts With Prevention

Winter may bring cold temperatures, but a little preparation can keep danger at bay. By staying mindful of heating equipment, electrical safety, and regular maintenance, families can enjoy the season knowing they’ve taken steps to prevent home fires.

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