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Local Branch Manager, a Community Mainstay

Networks

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7:07 pm

Local Branch Manager, a Community Mainstay

For the past 40 years, banking has been a way of life for Gina Epperson. Although the banking industry has changed a lot over the years, one thing has remained the same, her heart of service.

Epperson began her career in September of 1981 at the Scott County Bank in Waldron. After nine years at that location, she was transferred to Mansfield where she has worked for the past 31 years.

After being established in Mansfield, the bank would be renamed Chambers Bank.

“The banking industry has changed so much in the 40 years that I have been in banking,” stated Epperson. “I started in the bookkeeping department filing checks and working up statements. Now checks are imaged and statements are mostly done electronically or by online banking. Loans once made by typing on a typewriter are now keyed from a computer with a keyboard. Teller transactions were looked at by microfilm on microfiche which was delivered daily by the federal reserve. Now everything is downloaded on computers daily. Customers use ATMs for cash and deposits, faxes by email, Skype meetings, and debit cards. Almost any type of banking can be done by phone, internet, or online without even stepping into a financial institution.”

Although she has witnessed many changes in the industry, Epperson’s heart of service has been a mainstay. She admits that the best part of her job is being able to help customers with their needs.

“I believe the people that I have worked with through the years have helped me keep going at Chambers Bank,” Epperson added. “My fellow co-workers, whether they be at Mansfield or any other location, are like family to me and have treated me as ‘bank family’. When you work with good people, it makes your job so much better.”

Epperson has worked in bookkeeping, new accounts, as loan secretary, loan officer, teller, Assistant Vice President, and Retail Branch Manager.

She and her husband, Tracy Epperson, will celebrate their 32nd wedding anniversary this month. The couple’s daughter, Tymber Moreton and son-in-law, Anthony Moreton, graced them with two granddaughters, Selah Cheyenne Moreton and Brey Dakota Moreton. The Eppersons are also parents to a heavenly daughter, Cheyenne Dakota Epperson.

“The Lord has truly blessed me with my family, friends and my career,” concluded Epperson.

Biblical Principles

Lifestyle

Resident News Network

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5:30 pm

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By Vestal Hutchens
Contributor

Biblical principles work! Always! For every one or anyone who applies them.

Let’s look at the Biblical principle of “work”. Start in Proverbs with the statement of the principle: …he that gathereth by labour shall increase. (13:11); …In all labour there is profit. (14:23) – (“Labor” means “work”). Also, Paul said in 1st Thessalonians 4:11 to: work with your own hands”, and in 2nd Thessalonians 3:10: “…that if any would not work, neither should he eat”.

As important as the principle of work is, the principle of “how to work” is also important. This is found in the Old Testament, in Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might…” In the New Testament, Paul, in Colossians 3:7 and in Ephesians 6:7, basically said, “Do all things as unto the Lord”.

My personal experience in applying these two principles as a commercial construction superintendent from 1985 to 1996 and as owning and operator at a for-hire hay baling operation from 1996 until 2017 proved their worth to me. Now I didn’t get rich by the world’s standards, certainly didn’t become a millionaire, but I didn’t go hungry.

I think possibly one of the biggest lies I’ve ever believed is that you’ve got to have a “job”, “punch a clock”, and get a paycheck on Friday in order to “make a living”. Instead, choose an honorable occupation or profession, perform the “work” of it to the above Biblical principles, and “custom” and customers will beat a path to your door. Yes! Biblical principles work!

Lady Tigers Take State in Three Straight

Sports

Jason Baggett

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10:19 am

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Lady Tigers Take State in Three Straight

It has been said that to repeat state titles is hard, and to beat a team four times in one season, even harder.

The Mansfield Lady Tigers disproved that opinion in Hot Springs as they faced the Life Way Christian Warriors in the 2A State Championship on Saturday. They did so while making a statement in convincing fashion.

This Lady Tiger team is known for their tenacity at the net, well placed serves and an unwavering belief in their abilities on defense. Emotions leveraged towards one goal, and that goal was to WIN. From the many proud parents, supportive fans, and the “loud & proud” student section, momentum favored the Tigers.

The Tigers made easy work of the Warriors dominating three straight sets. 25-10, 25-19, and 25-22.

On familiar territory, the Tigers dominated the serve, standing strong on the line with an acute defense, and a purpose filled offense. One might even say, that there is in fact something to be said about having a pre-game Chick-fil-A meal.

mansfield-tigers-life way-Christian-volleyball-2A-state championship — Brooklyn Adams (L) and Kynsley Ward (R) stands tall against the Warrior offense.

It’s Championship Saturday in Hot Springs!

Sports

Resident News Network

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9:40 am

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It’s Championship Saturday in Hot Springs!

It’s a beautiful day in Hot Springs, and the Hackett Lady Hornets and the Paris Lady Eagles have taken the court to warm-up for their Class 3A state championship match! The championship tilt is a rematch of last year’s final in which the Lady Hornets won the 2020 state title in their first year as a 3A school.

Today’s match is the first game between the two schools after the 3A West tournament final where Paris came back to win a five set thriller. The Paris win was the second five set match between the two teams, and today’s championship final could follow suit.

Resident Press will have a recap of the final match along with photos from the game on Facebook at Paris Eagles Sports on Sunday! So if you are anywhere close to Hot Springs, stop by and watch “Super Fight IV” that has all the makings of another Paris / Hackett thriller. But this time….it is for the state championship!

Good luck to both schools!

Reasons To Invest in a Master Suite for Your Home

Lifestyle

Resident News Network

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1:19 pm

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Reasons To Invest in a Master Suite for Your Home

A master suite is one of the most exciting ways to upgrade your house, but is it really worth the time, effort, and money it takes? This is a grand undertaking, but the results can completely transform your home. Even better, a master bedroom is the perfect way to treat yourself and add a little more luxury to your life. Still not convinced? Find more reasons to invest in a master suite for your home with this guide.

All You Need in One Space

A master suite is more than just a spacious bedroom. You also get plentiful closet space and a luxurious en suite bathroom. The master suite includes everything you could want in a comfortable, functional bedroom. This means no more sharing a bathroom with kids or other members of the house. The upgrade in storage space is also incredibly useful. Plus, you can add other fun features, like your own fireplace, a reading nook or sitting space, or even a private balcony. A master suite offers comfort, privacy, and the perfect level of extravagance to give you the room you deserve.

Customize Any Way You Want

Your bedroom should always reflect who you are and what styles you enjoy. A new master suite presents a blank slate to display any design or décor you want. This is the perfect excuse to give your bedroom a refresh. Plus, the extra space of a master suite gives you even more room to decorate.

Remember that good bedroom design incorporates more than just what you hang on your walls. You must consider many factors when designing your master suite. Find ways to optimize your lighting for a cozy atmosphere. New furniture can also be a fun upgrade. Always make sure you keep functionality in mind as you design the space. When you balance function, comfort, and beauty, you create a master suite that meets every need you have.

Settle Down in a Home That Lasts

Many homeowners design a master suite because they want to stay in that house for the rest of their lives. After all, one of the best reasons to invest in a master suite for your home is to make your space more comfortable for years to come. You can also design your master suite for aging in place. Wide spaces, grab bars in the bathroom, and other accessibility features will keep your space comfortable and safe as you enjoy your home through the years.

Increase Your Home Value

Even if you don’t want to stay in your current house forever, a master suite increases the value of your home. The spacious design and luxurious features will make your home more desirable on the market, which in turn makes it easier to sell down the road. If you plan on eventually selling your home, try to incorporate desirable amenities and features into your master suite. A jetted tub, energy-efficient lighting and water fixtures, heated floors, and other additions will make your home stand out.

Class 3A State Volleyball Championship Match Features 2020 Rematch of Paris vs Hackett

Sports

Resident News Network

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12:02 pm

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Class 3A State Volleyball Championship Match Features 2020 Rematch of Paris vs Hackett

When Resident Press began this year’s coverage of volleyball, the 3A West, and the Paris Lady Eagles, we began by recounting that afternoon on Halloween, October 31, 2020, when the much-anticipated match between the Class 2A champion Hackett Lady Hornets and Paris was held in Hot Springs at Bank OZK Arena. And at the end of that day, it was Hackett rolling to a three set sweep and decisive victory over Paris to repeat as state champions. For Paris, it was a day that many seniors this year have not forgotten and has driven the Lady Eagles through the ups and downs of the regular season to again make an appearance tomorrow in the state championship game for the second consecutive year against the Lady Hornets.

There is not much left to be said that has not already been talked about throughout this season. Hackett has again been dominant throughout their season, having swept Paris twice in the regular season. But the Lady Eagles bounced back and defeated Hackett in a dramatic five-set win in the finals of the 3A West Tournament. The Paris win sent the Lady Eagles to the state tournament as a one seed, and Hackett as a two seed. This year, Hackett had the tougher path to the finals, but the Lady Hornets defeated their opponents impressively as to tell the fans, “We are still here.” So, for Paris, the old adage of “If you want to be the man, you have to beat the man,” holds true. If Paris wants to return as a state champion at the end of the day on Saturday, they will simply have to beat a determined Hackett team.

And with all of the pagantry and build-up to tomorrow’s game, that is the bottom line. Win and you are state champions, and lose, and you will receive a runner-up trophy that will feel like a bad consolation prize for the loser of tomorrow’s match.

The Lady Eagles were impressive in their district tournament win over Hackett. Paris showed a degree of mental toughness that frankly they had not shown earlier in the year. The Lady Eagles appear to be peaking at the right time of the year, but it will take that kind of effort and determination again if Paris is to win the state championship. Paris and Hackett are clearly the two best teams in 3A, and there is not much difference between the two teams. So, it will be the intangibles, such as focus and mental toughness, that will carry the day for tomorrow’s winner. Paris should not lack motivation based on the team’s lackluster performance in last year’s final against Hackett.

Game time tomorrow in Hot Springs is 11 a.m. Both schools’ fans travel well, and there should be plenty of support for both schools. There is ample seating at Bank OZK Arena, so, get up early tomorrow and make the trip to Hot Springs. Root for your team to win the championship, and go out in Hot Springs after the game for a great lunch!

Resident Press wishes both Hackett and Paris the best of luck tomorrow. Win or lose for either team, both teams have had a great run this season, and both communities can be very proud of their teams!

See you tomorrow for what I have dubbed as “Super Fight IV!”

Top Tips for Increasing Your Home’s Value

Lifestyle

Resident News Network

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11:53 am

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Top Tips for Increasing Your Home’s Value

Thinking about selling your home and moving on to greener pastures? You want to make as much money as you possibly can from selling your home to accrue the funds needed to purchase the home of your dreams.

You have a renovation budget ready, but what should you spend it on to increase your home’s value the most? Here are a handful of top tips for increasing your home’s value.

Focus on the Areas That Matter Most

If you want to increase your home’s value, you should focus on the areas of the home that matter most. Think—what do most house hunters want? A beautiful and functional kitchen, a bathroom where they can relax and unwind, a roomy master bedroom, and a finished basement are common high priorities. Conversely, not many house hunters are looking for a chandelier in the garage or a cat obstacle course that stretches from floor to ceiling.

For the best return on your investment, spend your renovation money on improving the main areas of the home instead of adding niche details that could be a hit or miss.

Aim For Efficiency

Another top tip for increasing your home’s value is to make it eco-friendly. Energy-efficient homes are valuable in the eyes of eco-conscious and cost-conscious buyers. Energy-saving appliances, lighting, and windows reduce a home’s environmental footprint as well as the cost of monthly utilities. Score—two birds with one stone!

When you’re out shopping for any of the above, look for products that are EPA-Energy Star certified. These products are deemed highly energy efficient by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy.

Replacing regular fixtures and appliances with Energy Star devices will save you money while you still own your home and make you money when you sell it.

Cover Up Imperfections

The cabinets and counters in the kitchen are outdated, the interior walls are scratched and stained, and the siding outside is dirty and discolored. Fortunately, there’s a one-size-fits-all solution—a brand-new layer of paint!

Paint is fantastic for those who want to cheaply and easily boost their home’s value. An interior paint job comes with a whopping 107 percent ROI while an exterior paint job offers a lower, but still excellent ROI of 55 percent. Get in touch with a contractor, pick out some nice hues, and bask in the instant profit!

Mansfield Postmaster Retires after 35 Years

News

Resident News Network

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10:05 am

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Mansfield Postmaster Retires after 35 Years

Retirement is indeed a time for celebration, and on Friday, October 29, Mansfield Postmaster Bettye Barnes closed out a chapter in her life after over three decades.

Barnes was hired in 1986 by longtime Mansfield Postmaster, Neil Jones. She worked as a clerk in Mansfield, as well as in Hartford, Huntington, Fort Smith, Alma, and Waldron. In July of 2012, Barnes was named Officer in Charge at Mansfield, then in April of 2018, she became Postmaster.

“Bettye just brightens the day and it has been an honor to work with her the past three years,” shared clerk Sherri Kenner. “I have learned a lot and admire her calmness and take-charge attitude in an unseen situation. She is the best. We wish her well, but we will miss her!”

Long-time co-worker, Richard Henson agreed, stating: “I’ve worked under a lot of postmasters, and she is one of the best…She runs three post offices, and the amount of paperwork is unbelievable. But, with Bettye, you want to do your job well because of the kindness she shows her employees.”

Henson went on to reminisce, “one time she stole the spare tire out of the back of my route truck. I looked everywhere for that spare, even had Walmart review security to see if it was taken there. It showed up one day on our back docks with a note ‘I forgot I borrowed this and just remembered to bring it back.’ That spare cost me $250 to replace!” Henson laughed admitting he had it coming after the joke he had played on her! “I poured transmission fluid under her car after she got a new one put in to make her think it was leaking.” The antic costed Barnes a half-day of annual leave.

“When the carriers are out and our phones ring, if it is Bettye’s number, the first thing we think is ‘oh, crap!’ But, when we answer, she says one of two things. 1. You’ve done nothing wrong, or 2. Richard, you’re killing me!” He added that “Mansfield’s been so blessed to have her as a postmaster. She will be impossible to replace, and I will miss her dearly.”

Substitute mail carrier Linda Lowery shared, “Bettye has been the best boss anyone could’ve asked for. I feel blessed to have gotten to know her!” And, mail carrier Lana Owens added, “Bettye is a boss that goes above and beyond to meet customers’ needs and is diligent with their concerns. She’s a boss that truly cares about what is going on in your personal life and values your family time that you’ve asked off for, no matter what else may be going on during that time. She is a boss that will celebrate with you during the good times and will show sympathy during the hard times. She’s a boss that will send a Christmas care package to your military son that is deployed. Most people don’t get to work for a boss like this, but I have and it’s been wonderful! My boss has been such a blessing to me and I’m going to miss you dearly Bettye. I hope you enjoy your well-deserved retirement!”

Her co-workers hosted a farewell party for her on Friday. The come-and-go event was a time filled with laughter and reminiscence. Best wishes on your retirement Bettye Barnes!

Pictured from left: Phil Stevens, Sherri Keener, Bettye Barnes, Richard Henson, Shelley Tomlin, Linda Lowery, and Dean Gibbs

Retiring Postmaster Bettye Barnes with Dean Gibbs, who will be Mansfield’s new Officer in Charge.

Paris Faces Vaunted Bearcats Rushing Attack Tonight at Booneville

Sports

Resident News Network

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8:47 am

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Paris Faces Vaunted Bearcats Rushing Attack Tonight at Booneville

As they say, throw out the records in this one, it doesn’t matter when these two schools meet. But this year, as it has been now for the past two seasons, the records do matter as both Booneville and Paris will enter tonight’s game undefeated in conference play. The winner of tonight’s game in Booneville will be the 3A-4 conference champion and will enter the state playoffs next month as the conference’s number one seed. The loser will be the conference runner-up and will go to the state playoffs as a two seed from the conference. And as one additional incentive, the winner of tonight’s game will likely play home playoff games for the first three rounds, or as long as they survive in the first three weeks of the playoffs. That is a huge advantage not to have to make bus trips in excess of three to four hours.

Booneville will once again bring a very strong rushing attack into tonight’s game with Paris. The Bearcats have been virtually unstoppable and make no bones to their opponents as to what they want to do on offense. Booneville will line up and come right at you, telling their opponents, “try and stop us.” Their offensive line is very physical, as well as a deep and talented backfield. The Cats senior quarterback, Randon Ray, is one of the most talented and fiercest competitors in the storied history of Booneville football.

But the wild card in this year’s game may be the Eagles’ head coach, Jeff Weaver. Paris returns many of the players who narrowly lost in last year’s game in Paris, but this year’s edition of the Eagles is a little different team on offense. Last year’s version was a little more balanced with run and pass on offense, and this year’s team features a “quick strike” capability under their new coach. It will be interesting tonight to see how the Eagles approach the Booneville defense.

But to have success tonight against Booneville, the Paris defense has to step up and at least slow the Booneville rushing attack. The Bearcats are going to get their yardage on the ground, but Paris must make them earn every one of them and take a lot of time in doing so. The Paris offense has to protect their quarterback, Chase Watts, and they have to score points. Sounds simple, but in the trenches where war will be conducted all night, it is a proposition of both teams coming ready to play and to play in a hard-fought, physical battle. Turnovers will be key, and to win the game, Paris can not lose the turnover battle and give Booneville more chances to score. The Bearcats are simply too good of a football team, and Paris cannot afford to help them.

Kickoff for tonight’s game is 7 p.m in Booneville, and an overflow crowd is expected on a cold fall night for football. I highly recommend that fans get to the stadium early to secure a seat. Dress warmly, although the action in tonight’s game should be hot and furious!

Resident Press will have a story on tonight’s game on Sunday in its online edition. Photos from the game will be posted on Facebook at Paris Eagles Sports no later than Monday due to the Lady Eagles’ championship game on Saturday.

Good luck to both schools in what should be a classic in Logan County football history!

It’s Paris at Booneville, and it doesn’t get any bigger than that! See you at the stadium!

Hot Charleston Tigers Travel to Northwest Arkansas to Play at West Fork on a Cold Night for Football

Sports

Resident News Network

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8:06 am

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Hot Charleston Tigers Travel to Northwest Arkansas to Play at West Fork on a Cold Night for Football

You can never get tired of winning, and so it is for the Charleston Tigers and their fan base. Last Friday, the top ten ranked Tigers defeated Lincoln at Alumni Field by the score of 68-14, and in doing so, improved their record on the year to 8-0 overall and 5-0 in conference play. In fact, dating back to last season, Charleston has now won 12 consecutive conference games, and has an overall record of 16-2 going into tonight’s game. As I have written about all season, I expect the Tigers to go undefeated and finish the final two weeks of the season with wins before entering the state playoffs in November as a number one seed from the 3A-1 conference. And tonight’s game should be one of the last two wins the Tigers need for this year’s regular season schedule.

Charleston will travel to West Fork this afternoon to take on the Tigers on a cold night in Northwest Arkansas. West Fork, a fifth seed playoff team from the 3A-1 a year ago, has not met the expectations that many had for the Tigers this season. West Fork has badly missed some seniors who graduated last school year, and the Tigers have struggled all season. West Fork will enter tonight’s game with a 2-6 overall record and a 1-3 record in the conference. Last week, West Fork lost at Hackett by the score of 36-13. The Tigers’ only conference win to date was a win at Lavaca on October 8 when they beat the Golden Arrows by the score of 41-20. After tonight’s game with Charleston, West Fork will end their season with their rivalry game against Greenland.

So, frankly, tonight’s game should be no contest, but, as I preach every day, ALL opponents must be respected, and I believe Charleston coach Ricky May will have his team prepared and they will come out and take care of business early against West Fork. It will be an opportunity for reserve players to get playing time, and in what should be a time shortened game, it may be an opportunity for the Charleston fans to get into their warm cars a little early and head back to Charleston with another win.

Looking ahead a little bit, a win tonight and a week ten regular season ending game with Lavaca at Alumni Field should complete the unbeaten season, and Coach May and his Tigers will turn their attention to a home playoff game against a number five seed from across the state. Once again, coach Ricky May has done an outstanding job with the Charleston program, and the Tigers are positioned once again to have one of the finest high school football programs in Arkansas.

So Tigers fans, bundle up and get ready to make the trip to West Fork to support your Tigers! And Resident Press will have more on Charleston next week and into the state playoffs!

R

All You Need in One Space

Customize Any Way You Want

Settle Down in a Home That Lasts

Increase Your Home Value

Focus on the Areas That Matter Most

Aim For Efficiency

Cover Up Imperfections

RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK