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Mansfield Officer Receives Lifesaving Award

Tammy Teague
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Mansfield Officer Receives Lifesaving Award

The Mansfield City Council met in regular session on Thursday evening, September 17 at city hall. The meeting was called to order at 6 p.m. Council members present were: Jan Carlton, Dave Johnson, Beverly Lyons, Rick McDaniel, and Sheri Hopkins. Council woman Julie Thomas arrived at 6:10 p.m. Also present, City Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker and Mayor Buddy Black.

After approving the minutes and financials from the previous meeting, the council heard the city services reports.

The public works report included: 162 work orders, four water leaks, assistance with traffic control during high water, and work with engineers and contractors.

Fire Chief Michael Smith reported a total of 20 calls, six fire and 14 EMS. Smith assisted Officer White in the Scott County swift water rescue near Elm Park, and provided traffic control on Highway 71 when water covered the roadway. Lastly, the department has been working home sporting events at the high school.

Police Chief Wayne Robb reported that the department received a total of 44 calls, and had 22 agency assists. There were a total of 17 incident/arrest reports, three accident reports, 168 traffic stops, issued 133 warnings, 28 citations in Scott County and 13 in Sebastian County. The department executed one felony warrant in Scott County, and two felony and four misdemeanor warrants in Sebastian County. There were a total of 11 animal calls for the month.

Mayor Buddy Black presented Officer Sean White with a “Lifesaving Award.” White was given the award following his actions, which ultimately led to the swift water rescue of a Scott County woman. Flood victim, Beverly Bonds, stated that White was her “knight in shining armor.” White responded that he was “just in the right place at the right time.”

In items of unfinished business, the council took action on a new dog ordinance. Ordinance number 2020-3 repealed and replaced ordinances 92-1, 95-2, and 2007-3. The council had reviewed the proposed ordinance in a recent study session and voted unanimously on Thursday to approve it. Ordinance 2020-3 regulates licensing, housing and maintenance of animals, animal noise, ownership and maintenance of dangerous and/or vicious animals within the City of Mansfield. A copy of the ordinance in its entirety will be available at city hall.

In items of new business, the council approved the proposal from Black to install an electric gate at the waste water plant. The estimated project cost is $9,849.68. The city will be responsible for providing the 110v electricity to the operator pad.

Next, the council heard from Mansfield resident Kari Dickinson. The council approved the proposal for Dickinson to design and maintain a City of Mansfield website. The city will pay Dickinson $200 to set up the website and will pay her monthly at a rate to be determined.

Mayor Black read resolution 2020-4: a resolution by the City of Mansfield supporting the house joint resolution 1018 of 2019 (HJR 1018 of 2019,) proposing an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution to continue a levy of a 1/2 percent sales and use tax for state highways and bridges; county roads, bridges and other surface transportation; and city streets, bridges, and other surface transportation after the retirement of the bonds authorized in Arkansas Constitution, Amendment 91, as special revenue to be distributed under the Arkansas Highway Revenue Distribution Law. The council voted unanimously to to support the legal proposals found in HJR 1018 of 2019, as well as its adoption by the people of the State of Arkansas at the next general election.

Next, the council voted unanimously to approve Resolution 2020-5, calling on Congress to allocate fair and direct federal support to all of America’s communities, regardless of population and size. Furthermore, it called on funding for expenses incurred by communities in response to the pandemic emergency. The resolution declared that “Mansfield has been part of the emergency response and now calls on Congress to build a united national partnership for a safe, healthy, prosperous life.”

Ordinance 2020-4, a continuance of property assessments in the city, was read and approved unanimously by the council. The ordinance is to continue assessments for property located in the City of Mansfield.

In the last two items of business, the council voted unanimously to eliminate employee comp time and return to regular overtime pay, and to revise the personnel policy manual.

In closing remarks, Mayor Black asked that everyone please respond to the census. With no other items of business, the meeting of the Mansfield City Council was adjourned.

Band Opens Doors for Bryd at Charleston

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Band Opens Doors for Bryd at Charleston

In 5th grade, someone suggested to Krystal that she would be good in band. That suggestion made a major impact on her life. Since 6th grade, she has been playing the flute and piccolo. She has auditioned for All-Region and performed at the Arkansas State Band Convention as a member of a Honor Band. And this year she has been name the Drum Major for the 2020 Charleston High School Marching Band. In her life, nothing has stopped her, not even her disability.

When you meet Krystal Byrd, you will notice that she is extremely kind and confident. You may notice that she is in a wheelchair. She was born with spina bifida, which is where the nerves in her back did not form properly and she is unable to walk. Her handicap has not stopped her from working hard and being devoted to what she loves, and that is band.

I first saw Krystal perform with the Charleston Band two years ago at our 2018 Week 4 Friday Night Features. She marched in the halftime show with the assistance of her Band Director, Jessica Holt. This spoke volumes about Krystal and the Band Program at Charleston. Krystal did not let her disability stop her from marching or becoming Drum Major.

During her time at Charleston, Krystal became interested in being Drum Major. As she saw upper class men conducting and leading the band, she decided that is something she wanted to also do. During her Junior year, she auditioned for Durm Major but was not selected. Did that stop her? No! She took her success and faults and learned from them and prepared for next years audition.

This is what Ms Holt had to say about Byrd, “Krystal tried out for drum major last year against some really tough competitors. She took our feedback to heart and she’s been methodically preparing for this year’s audition for over a year now. She made unbelievable progress over the summer and during our drum major training last week! I’m excited for the community to see her in action and I know that she will inspire so many other band students in our program and across Arkansas this marching season.”

Now a Senior in band and Drum Major, Krystal looks forward to the most about this upcoming marching season is the football games, where she will be conducting and leading the band in the stands and on the field. She is upset that the band is unable to travel to away games to to the pandemic but she is grateful for the time she has with her band family and new leadership role. In her spare time, Krystal enjoyed the outdoor, spending time with friends, and painting. After High School, she plans to attend Arkansas Tech at Ozark and major in Nursing with a minor in music.

During our interview, Krystal had the honor of being the first student to participate in our “ARVBands’ Quick 5”.

What is your favorite High School Marching Show?
Spiro High School 2019 Show “The Nightmare Before Christmas”

What is the best meal that you have ever had?
Her mom’s Spaghetti

What annoys you the most in band?
Ms Holt’s amplifier

If you could do anything, what would be your dream career?
A Band Director

What is your best memory in your band career?
Traveling to away football games with the band

Ms Holt had this to add about Krystal,
“Krystal has shown such grit and determination throughout her entire six-year band career. She chooses to face every day with a positive attitude and that’s not always easy for a teenager to do! She is, and always has been, an excellent ambassador for our band program and I’m proud for her to be the face of the high school band this year.”

I wish Krystal the best of luck with this upcoming marching season and her senior year. Charleston has an extremely hardworking an methodical Drum Major leading their band. And that is what every band hopes for in this time of uncertainty .

Obituary- Earl Blanton (1949 – 2020)

Tammy Teague
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Obituary- Earl Blanton (1949 – 2020)

Earl Blanton of Waldron, Arkansas passed from this life, Tuesday, September 15, 2020, in Waldron, Arkansas. Earl was born September 16, 1949, in Fox Town, Kentucky to Buddy Blanton and Alpha (Baker) Blanton. He was 70 years old.

Earl was a member of Winfield Baptist Church. He was a truck driver for Tyson Foods for many years before retiring. He was a hard worker and loved his family.

Earl leaves behind to cherish his memory two grandchildren: Audra Blanton and Katelyn Ferren and numerous great grandchildren. Earl is also survived by his siblings: Mary Walton, Kathy Yarber, Geraldean Biggs, Ada Taylor, Vess Blanton and Cecil Blanton. Earl will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of extended family, friends and neighbors.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Buddy and Alpha, his wife Brenda, one daughter, Lasha Johnson, one son Richard Blanton and one brother Don Blanton.

Earl’s graveside life celebration will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 18, 2020, at the Kirk Cemetery in Cauthron, Arkansas with Rev. William Crelia officiating. Interment will follow.

Paris Remains Perfect in Conference Play, Defeats West Fork 3-0

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Paris Remains Perfect in Conference Play, Defeats West Fork 3-0

The Paris High School campus was alive with action on a beautiful Thursday night. The Eagles seventh and junior high football teams were hosting Danville at Eagles Stadium, and across the parking lot at Paris Gymnasium, the Lady Eagles volleyball team was hosting the West Fork Lady Tigers in a 3A West conference match-up.

On a night when the Paris volleyball program notched wins by its seventh grade team, junior high team, junior varsity team, and its varsity Lady Eagles, both the present and the future of Paris volleyball was on display. A young varsity team continued its unbeaten streak in conference play, not having lost a match. In fact the Lady Eagles only loss was a non-conference loss at Fort Smith Southside back in August.

Perhaps the most noticeable difference in the continued development of this team is the growth of junior middle Akira Robinson. In Thursday night’s game against West Fork, Robinson was all over the floor, aggressively going for the kill shot at every opportunity. Robinson is becoming the player that everyone has expected she would become. Her aggressive play is starting to match her athleticism. If she continues to develop, the imposing front line of Paris is going to become that much better. The depth on the front will be a significant factor for the Lady Eagles as they move into post-season play.

Paris (9-1, 8-0) will have the weekend off before they make the trip to Mena on Monday to play a non-conference match against the Lady Bearcats. Next week will be a big week for Paris, as they will return home Monday night and then travel to Charleston on Tuesday to resume conference play. The week will conclude on Thursday when Paris hosts the Booneville Lady Bearcats. It will be an endurance test for the team as they will play two matches on the road against good teams and then play a third match at home in the same week. And it will continue to be important for the Lady Eagles that they remain perfect in conference play before the Hackett Lady Hornets come calling on October 6.

The first match at Mena will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. Junior A, Senior B, and Senior A matches will be played.

Stay with Resident Press as we will bring you Lady Eagles coverage all next week for our readers. Photos from the Lady Eagles matches against West Fork will be posted this Sunday on Facebook at Paris Eagles Sports.

Must-Have Beekeeping Supplies for Beginners

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Must-Have Beekeeping Supplies for Beginners

Beekeeping isn’t just the run-of-the-mill, average hobby. It isn’t like gardening, where you might already have the supplies and equipment you need in your shed. Do some research and read the information below to find out what the must-have beekeeping supplies for beginners entail. Being prepared and ready to go is always the best course of action.

Veil

This is the most important piece of equipment you’re going to need. It will indeed keep you safe! This supply keeps the bees from stinging your scalp and face, which can be very painful.

Gloves

Any gloves will do the trick! It’s recommended that they’re made of leather and that they go to your elbows. If you can’t find gloves that go to your elbows, you can duct-tape the wrist areas of the gloves so that no bees get inside.

Smoker

The smoker is used to calm the bees. The smoke masks the pheromones that the bees use to communicate. The inability to communicate forces them to calm down. You’ll use a smoker to get into the hive to do whatever beekeeping task you need to do.

Beekeeper’s Suit

This is the equipment everybody assumes you need for beekeeping. It is the staple supply. However, while this suit is recommended, it’s not absolutely necessary. If you don’t want to buy everything at once to lessen the overall upfront costs, this would be something you don’t have to have to begin beekeeping. Obviously, safety is still a key component, so if you don’t purchase this, make sure to thoroughly cover your body.

Many other beekeeping tools, supplies, and equipment make the job easier, but those listed above will do the job in getting you ready to begin beekeeping. Follow this list of must-have beekeeping supplies for beginners to get started on the right foot!

AAA Lifts Travel Ban to Away Games for High School Cheer & Dance Spirit Groups

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AAA Lifts Travel Ban to Away Games for High School Cheer & Dance Spirit Groups

The Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) has relaxed its ban on out-of-town travel for high school cheerleaders and dance team spirit groups. In a memo released by the AAA, there was no mention of high school bands in its list of spirit groups that will be allowed to travel.

The AAA memo stated in part, “Starting Monday, September 21, 2020, travel to away sporting events for spirit groups (CHEER/DANCE) will be a local district decision.” The memo relaxes the restrictions placed by the AAA at the start of current fall sports seasons that prohibited travel by spirit groups and band to away events. The restrictions were put in place as a response to the COVID -19 virus and efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Resident Press will continue to follow this development and will report any new information to our readers when updates are available.

Stay with Resident Press for the most complete coverage of high school sports in the River Valley.

Sr Lady Tigers Exceed In 8 Week Winning Streak

Megan Hecox
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Sr Lady Tigers Exceed In 8 Week Winning Streak

“May the odds be ever in your favor!”– Effie Trinket from The Hunger Games

Nearly halfway through their undefeated volleyball season, the Mansfield Sr High Lady Tigers continue to approach every opponent as if that quote was their team motto. On Tuesday, September 15, the Mansfield Sr High Lady Tigers strolled into Decatur cool as a cucumber looking to upgrade their 5-0 conference record. Although this was the first time these 2A conference foes had faced each other, the Lady Tigers and the Lady Bulldogs knew it wasn’t going to be the last.

With sets ending in 25-8, 25-9, and 25-10, this match was over before the Decatur Lady Bulldogs even knew what hit em’. As the Lady Tigers graciously accepted the 3-0 win, they bid adieu to the Lady Bulldogs while beefing up their conference record to 6-0. The Sr Lady Tigers were able to secure top-notch stats by the end of the game. Never having to do a lick of jail time for their continuous “kill” habits was Skylynn Harris with 15, Brooke Wright with 12, Natalie Allison with 10, and Sadie Roberts and Brooklyn Adams with 2 each. With more serves than a butler at Buckingham Palace was Adams with 8 aces, Wright with 6, Allison with 3, and Madelen Jones and Alayna Turner with 1 apiece.

With better “blocks” than a hockey goalie was Harris and Wright with 1 each. More helpful than Lassie to Timmy in “assisting” their teammates was Jones with 23 and Allison with 10. And with more “digs” than Martha Stewart’s garden was Kiara Thomas with 15, Adams with 8, Jones with 5, Haylee Helms with 2, and Turner with 1. As the Sr Lady Tigers take control of their division with an 8-0 season record, they are looking to upgrade that number tonight on the road when they take on the Mulberry Lady Yellowjackets in round two of conference play. The first time around, Mansfield won 3-0 against Mulberry with five-star sets of 25-2, 25-12, and 25-4. This match is happening tonight in Mulberry starting at 4:30 pm.

Fort Smith Attorney in Runoff Race for Circuit Court Judge, Division VI

Tammy Teague
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Fort Smith Attorney in Runoff Race for Circuit Court Judge, Division VI

Fort Smith attorney Greg Magness is a candidate in the runoff race for the nonpartisan position of Sebastian County Circuit Court Judge, Division VI, a position now held by Judge James Cox, who is retiring.

Magness has been an attorney with Hardin, Jesson, & Terry, PLC, for more than 25 years with a general practice focused primarily on civil and business matters. Magness has served as a board member for the Western Arkansas Legal Services and recently completed a term as a member of the Fort Smith School Board.

Magness is a lifelong resident of Fort Smith and attended Southside High School. After graduating from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry, Magness received his law degree with honors from the University of Texas. He and his wife, Van, have two children who are both graduates of Southside High School and students at the University of Arkansas.

Magness describes himself as a Constitutional conservative. “One of a judge’s most important functions is to uphold and protect the Constitutional rights of citizens whether the threat comes from outside forces or the government itself.” Magness also believes that judges “should endeavor to apply and enforce the laws passed by our legislative and executive branches – not to make the law.” Magness said “that is the only way to ensure justice for everyone on an equal basis.”

Car Accessories That You Didn’t Know You Needed

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Car Accessories That You Didn’t Know You Needed

The time you spend in your car should be enjoyable. There are many different ways to improve your daily commutes. Accessories, in particular, can help you accomplish an enjoyable ride. There are many items that can be beneficial in this respect. Read this list below for some car accessories that you didn’t know you needed.

Car Mount

If you’re constantly on the go and exploring new areas, having a car mount is extremely useful. With a car mount, you can place your phone at a convenient eye level, which will help you avoid the hazard of driving with your phone in your lap. Driving with your phone in your lap can be very dangerous, as it can cause you to constantly look down and take your eyes off the road as you drive. Instead, with a car mount, your hands will be on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all times, ensuring you have a safe commute.

Car Seat Covers

If you have kids or pets, car seat covers will be your best friend. There are various styles, materials, and designs to choose from. You’re guaranteed to find a perfect fit for your car. And, if you need something specifically tailored for your car, there are great benefits to custom-made seat protectors.

Car Trash Can

Long commutes can really make you feel as if you live in your car. After a few trips, you start to notice the evidence of this. Don’t let trash pile up in your car. Instead, invest in a car trash can. These come in many different sizes and styles, so you’ll be sure to find one that goes great with your car’s interior.

Car Vacuum

Messes and spills are inevitable, so you want to prepare for these types of accidents as much as possible. A car vacuum can help you in so many different ways. If you accidentally spill your lunch, having your car vacuum on hand will help you avoid ants and stains. The free vacuums at the car wash don’t always have the best suction, so having a car vacuum will be helpful for future car wash days.

Car Hangers

This car accessory is great for space optimization. If you find yourself placing your purse or bags in the passenger seat, you probably have to scramble to clear off the space when you have someone join you. Save yourself from these few awkward seconds and invest in a car hanger. This will give you a convenient place to hang your items.

These car accessories that you didn’t know you needed will make your commute safer and more enjoyable.

WCFL Completes Week1 But Aren’t Done

Megan Hecox
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WCFL Completes Week1 But Aren’t Done

For months, football as a whole was questionable for 2020. Little League football was an even bigger question. With the COVID pandemic going on, even if Little League sports were allowed to play, how would smaller schools with already low numbers survive? The West Central Football League faced all of these issues and moreover the board tried to dot every “I” and cross every “T” to create a safe environment for their programs while still allowing kids to play and enjoy the sport of football. The league lost a program as Greenland respectfully bowed out of the 2020 season earlier in the summer. But with a lot of hard work and dedication from the coaches, the West Central Football League kicked off on Saturday, September 12th.

Magazine vs Hackett (courtesy of LaWaynea Cox)

Hackett traveled to Magazine for a defensive blockbuster with the Hornets walking away with an extremely close 2-0 victory. With both programs having a history of lighting up WCFL scoreboards, neither could seem to pull away from each other’s steel wall defenses. In fact, it was the Hornets defense that created the only score in the game when #69 Collin Cooper secured a solid tackle for a safety. Due to low numbers, Magazine canceled their 3rd and 4th Grade game against Hackett. Fans from both communities flowed in for this great game and were not left unsatisfied. Even better, everyone followed COVID precautions wonderfully. Hackett WCFL Representative, Kevin Stiles said “I think the fans on both sides Friday did a great job with the COVID guidelines. Magazine created a great atmosphere for the kids to play in. Both teams’ fans made it feel like we were playing a normal pre-COVID football game so this was a win for everyone no matter what the score was”.

JC Westside vs Mountainburg (courtesy of Tanya Kasper Robinson)

JC Westside took a road trip to Mountainburg’s Dragons Den. Both teams left the fans on the edges of their seats as the Rebels edged out the Dragons by a mere extra point attempt to win 8-6. Although the game was a bulldozer vs tank defensive game, both the Rebels and Dragons found the end zones for their first scores of the season. Fisher Bowden scored the lone touchdown for Mountainburg but the Dragons could not fire their way in for the two-point conversion. The Rebels Rylan Mendez found a weak spot in the Dragons scales to plow in for JC Westside’s score. It was Mendez who drove his way in to tack on the two-point conversion for the Rebel win. The 3rd and 4th Grade game was redemption for the Dragons, however, as they cruised to a 20-0 win over JC Westside. Mountainburg’s offense set the Rebels boots ablaze scorching JC Westside’s defense for three touchdowns. RJ Young flew through the Rebels defense scoring twice. To make those scores twice as nice, each touchdown run of Youngs was for 30 yards. Brody Guenther clawed his way past JC Westside’s defense on a big run also screaming downfield to cross the goal line for another Dragons touchdown. The Dragons secured a two-point conversion on one of those scores when “Powerful” Jeremiah Powell clawed his way across the goal line.

Mansfield vs West Fork (courtesy of Joanna James)

The Mansfield program headed north to face off with West Fork in a clash of the Tigers matchup. West Fork clawed at Mansfield with all they had, but the cards were not in their favor as they dropped both games to Mansfield. West Fork 5th and 6th Grade head coach, Rob Preston stated.“Aiden Stanton was the player who delivered our lone touchdown and Robbie Preston scored our two-point conversion. The key player’s trophy went to our QB, Carson Jones, and the offensive line!” Mansfield’s speed was the kryptonite for West Fork as big-play ensued throughout both games. Mansfield ended up winning their 3rd and 4th Grade game 38-6. The stand out players of that game were Colton Nelson, Layton Pyles, Sammy Cooper, and Payton James. The 5th and 6th Grade ended up with a 34-8 victory. Holding the football torch for that game was Hunter Whittaker, Cordel Stone, Keyton Oliver, and Caden Whittaker.

Magazine vs Hackett (courtesy of LaWaynea Cox)

The WCFL programs put on quite a show for their fans. With everything still uncertain in the world today, one thing that seemingly makes everything better is kids having fun. Win or lose, when these young men and women hit the field, they bring joy not only to themselves and each other but also to everyone in the stadiums and communities. Pandemic or not, the programs that played Saturday brought some normalcy into everyone’s Saturdays again.

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