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Honoring a Legacy of Service: David Millard Recognized for 25 Years with the Waldron Fire Department

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6:43 pm

Honoring a Legacy of Service: David Millard Recognized for 25 Years with the Waldron Fire Department

The City of Waldron recently paused to celebrate a man whose life’s work has been defined by service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to his community. David Millard—former police chief and current mayor—was honored on Thursday night, December 4, for an impressive 25 years of dedicated service to the Waldron Fire Department.

The recognition came in the form of a beautifully crafted plaque, presented as a token of gratitude from the Waldron City Fire Department. Its inscription reflected the depth of Millard’s contributions, commending his “selfless and sacrificial service” and calling his steadfast dedication “a testament to courage, duty and community.

Waldron Firefighter Mark Lystad presents Millard with his golden ax. (RNN photo / Cassie Coben)

For Millard, public service has never been a title—it has been a calling. Long before being elected mayor, he served the community through law enforcement, eventually becoming Waldron’s police chief. Yet even while wearing the badge, he continued to don the helmet of a firefighter, answering calls at all hours and placing the safety of others at the forefront of his life.

Colleagues describe him as calm under pressure and deeply devoted to the people he serves. That dedication carried him through countless emergencies, fires, rescues, and moments when the community needed steady hands and strong leadership. Whether responding to a blaze in the middle of the night or helping guide the city through its day-to-day challenges, Millard has been a steadfast figure in Waldron’s public safety landscape.

A surprised and emotional David Millard reacts as his 25 years of service to the Waldron Fire Department are recognized. (RNN photo / Cassie Coben)

Now, as mayor, he continues that tradition—working to support first responders, strengthen city services, and ensure that the next generation inherits a community built on trust, integrity, and resilience.

The Waldron City Fire Department’s recognition serves as a reminder of the often-unseen sacrifices made by volunteer and career firefighters alike, and of the extraordinary individuals who stand ready when crisis calls. For 25 years, David Millard has been one of those individuals.

As the plaque states, the honor represents the department’s “grateful acknowledgement of [his] outstanding service.” For the citizens of Waldron, it represents even more—a heartfelt appreciation for a man who has consistently embodied the very best of public service.

Congratulations to Mayor David Millard on this milestone achievement and thank you for your continued dedication to the City of Waldron.

‘A Flag’s Journey, A Nation’s Promise’: Stars and Stripes Sojourn 250 Inspires at Fort Smith National Cemetery

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12:27 pm

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‘A Flag’s Journey, A Nation’s Promise’: Stars and Stripes Sojourn 250 Inspires at Fort Smith National Cemetery

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Greenwood Athletics News and Notes

Ross Fujibayashi

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12:14 am

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National Signing Day

Seven kids have now signed letters of intent to further their athletic careers with several more on the horizon. Lady Bulldog Basketball Senior Kylah Pearcy started off the cycle by signing with University of Arkansas Fort Smith. She will join class of ’22 Lady Bulldog Abby Summit with the Lady Lions. Former Greenwood Bulldog and Gatorade Arkansas Player of the Year Anna Trusty, played for the Lady Lions last season, but has since transferred to Oral Roberts in Tulsa, OK. Trusty played against another former Lady Bulldog Mady Cartwright on November 17^th. Cartwright and the Golden Hurricanes defeated Oral Roberts 78-69 in Overtime.

Six players signed on the December signing day with Daisy Parker and Lakyn Dawson going to Henderson State for Softball. Alyssa Lovell will also be furthering her softball career at Lyon College, in the Christmas Capital of Arkansas, Batesville. Piper Ames will be a two-sport athlete for John Brown University, signing to run cross-country and track. Kane Archer made his decision by selecting Utah and Cody Taylor taking his talents to Charlotte.

“A special day for Greenwood community and Greenwood Athletic department. To see athletes from three different sports is such a huge deal.” Athletic Director Chris Young said. “It just shows that our school district and our community supports everybody, not just kids from one particular sport, but kids that are chasing their dream and want to play at the next level.”

“I think we’re trying to do that school wide, just combined, we’re all in this together as they’ve said for a long time here. And when you can do that, when other sports and other athletes support each other, I think it makes everybody stronger.” Athletic Director Chris Young said.

Moving on to Head Coach Chris Young, an additional signing is scheduled for February. Defensive end Cody Johnson is committed to the University of Central Oklahoma. At this time Wyatt Edwards, Akira Fujibayashi, Champ Davis, and others have not made their intentions known.

State Championship

Get your tickets for the Class 6A State Championship on Saturday night at 6:30 in War Memorial. Tickets can be purchased through the GoFan website by searching for Greenwood Bulldogs. There is a clear bag policy for the Stadium. Weather for the game looks to be clear with a high in 50’s but will definitely drop once that sun goes down. Due to Greenwood being the higher seed, the Bulldogs will be on the “home” side of War Memorial.

If you need a Friday night football fix, because you cannot make it to Little Rock the next day. Travel down to Mansfield, where our neighbors to the south will be taking on the Salem Greyhounds. This is for a trip to the Class 3A State Championship and is a battle of the unbeatens in that class. Or if you are the stay at home no matter what type, Booneville is playing Fordyce in the other Class 3A Semi-Final the game will be live streamed.

MORE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Cheer is gearing up for their State Championship on December 19^th in Hot Springs at the tongue-in-cheek “Reeves’ House”. Cheer is going for a 3-peat this year, on the heels of the Blue Dazzlers going Back-to-Back. Greenwood Bands is also gearing up for their State Championship in Winter Wind Ensemble, this will also be a Back-to-Back for the Devin West led squad. Fill the stands and take trophies.

Hooping In The Wood

Tournament Basketball returns to H.B. Stewart Arena next week! Fayetteville, Springdale Har-Ber, Tulsa Union, Searcy, Charleston, Paris, and Hugo, OK, will be at the Arena the 12^th and 13^th. Wash the end of the football season woes away with a cold beverage and some Nachos from the Concession Stand.

Greenwood Football Has Two On Signing Day

Ross Fujibayashi

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11:23 pm

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Greenwood Football Has Two On Signing Day

One was steadfast on his decision while the other had social media in a stranglehold for 48 hours. The Greenwood Bulldog Football team had their first set of players to sign letters of intent for college football. Quarterback Kane Archer ultimately went with Utah and Offensive Lineman Cody Taylor with Charlotte.

“The expectations that were put on both of those were completely unrealistic and not only have they met them, they’re exceeding them.” Head Coach Chris Young said after the signing. “Start with Cody, starting his fourth consecutive State Championship, starting his 52^nd game in a row is unbelievable. Not only has he been a great player on the field but seeing his leadership off the field.”

Kane Archer

Since November 30^th, there was the headline of Arkansas hiring Ryan Silverfield and then there was the constant barrage of comments “GET KANE ARCHER!” Alas, at noon on Tuesday it was made official via post from his father Adam, that Kane was signing with the Utah Utes.

Kane Archer is a player that needs no introduction, the stats and accolades are well published. And if you were a high school or college football fan in the state of Arkansas, you would have had to be in a coma the last few weeks not to know the name Kane Archer. 10,000 yards passing, 2,500 yards rushing, 100 touchdowns passing, 50 touchdowns rushing, a National Record on completion percentage, 2024 Gatorade and MaxPreps Arkansas Player of the Year. Utah in the Big 12 conference will be the future home for the Greenwood Bulldog. Coincidentally, forty minutes south of the University of Utah, longtime travel ball teammate and Rogers Mountineer Braxton Lindsey will be at BYU.

“I would say it was more of the culture than anything. I went up there with an open mind, obviously and it just felt a lot like home.” Kane Archer talked about the choice to go to Utah. “The culture, I watched them play Kansas State. They were down like 11 with three minutes, and I looked around and everybody just had hope. It was like, man usually when you go places, it doesn’t feel like this and to watch them come back and win. Told me everything I needed to know about the program.”

“I got the feeling they’re going to play their best player, so all I have to do is go in there, and prove myself. And that may not be year one, that may not be year two, that may not be year 3. But I’m eventually going to prove myself and that’s why I’m taking a chance.” Archer said.

“I think Kane’s probably had the most remarkable career in the history of Arkansas High School football. What he’s done has never been done before.” Head Coach Chris Young said regarding his quarterback. “The cool thing is, there is no telling what you’re going to see Saturday, he’s just a special talent.”

“It’s going to be sad when he walks off the field Saturday, knowing that we’re not going to have the opportunity number one, to witness what he does on the field at Greenwood. But, number two, to coach him.” Coach Young said.

Cody Taylor

The Senior Offensive Lineman transferred into Greenwood during his 8^th grade year. The 6’3” 310lbs Tackle, was moved up to Varsity his freshman year alongside his travel ball teammate Kane Archer. Taylor has played three different positions on the line but mainly spent his time at Guard for forty of the fifty-one games. There was a stint at Center his junior year, where injuries moved him back to Guard. This year was a change to left tackle to replace the graduated Christian Fleming.

Taylor has been a force on the line racking up 237 knockdowns in his four-year career. While Cody may be headed a short drive of fourteen hours away, it will be familiar as the offensive line coach for the Charlotte 49ers, also coached Greenwood’s offensive line coach Austin Moreton.

“The culture and how I felt wanted.” Cody Taylor said about what took him to Charlotte. “I can really go there and succeed is something I’ve really held on to. Being able to have faith in Coach [Allen] Rudolph and [Head] Coach Tim Albin, and what he’s doing is an absolutely amazing thing.”

“I think that’s actually really really cool. Because, you know, Coach Moreton’s way of coaching, I’m able to really pick up on and really do well.” Cody Taylor said regarding being coached at the next level by the same coach that coached Austin Moreton. “So, knowing he picked some stuff up from Coach Rudolph and he’s the originator. It’s really cool to be coached by him as well.”

“Seeing him get more comfortable talking with coaches and talking to kids, because he started off really shy. And it’s been awesome to see that.” Head Coach Chris Young said. “He’s worked extremely hard for what he’s gotten.”

Lady Bulldog Softball Sends Three On Signing Day

Ross Fujibayashi

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8:32 pm

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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.”

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.”

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.”

Piper Ames Signs With John Brown University

Ross Fujibayashi

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7:18 pm

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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 8^th.

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

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7:59 am

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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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5:33 pm

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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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9:14 pm

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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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12:59 pm

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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).

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