Resident News Network

Big Night at Tiger Center as Charleston Sweeps Waldron

Sports

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2:06 pm

Big Night at Tiger Center as Charleston Sweeps Waldron

The stars were out in Charleston Tuesday night at Tiger Center. In front of the home crowd that included Charleston Great Ty Storey and college basketball scouts from such schools as Stephen F. Austin and Indiana State, the Charleston basketball program swept the senior girls and boys games each by more than 30 points. The wins vaulted both the Charleston girls and boys teams into first place in their respective conferences.

In the girls game, the Lady Tigers continued their defensive domination combined with a fast-break offense that exploited many scoring opportunities in the Waldron defense. Charleston coach Jason Rucker believes his team is finally playing the game in keeping with its personality and team philosophy as it focuses on the stretch drive of the season. “I really thought for the first time all year we played fast, so, hopefully, we can continue to build on that moving forward.” For the Lady Tigers, Payton Rucker led Charleston scorers with 16 points. Gracie Koch had 10 points, and Raegan Oldridge had 9 points. Charleston defeated the Lady Bulldogs 56-26.

The boys game included the much-anticipated match-up with conference-leading Waldron and their prolific player, Peyton Brown. But it was the Bulldogs’ Mason Ford who stole the show early. Early in the game, Ford broke lose for a spectacular slam dunk that left fans gazing upward with mouths open.

The boys game, at times, resembled a track meet as both teams pressed the ball offensively and played pressure defense. The Bulldogs were able to reach the paint early in the game with their athletic guards and forwards. Charleston seemingly adjusted with their low post players and began to stop Waldron’s offensive penetration to the basket. Tiger senior Brayden Ross had a big game for Charleston, both offensively and defensively. A lot was at stake for both teams, and the intensity level was at a fever pitch for the entire game. For the Bulldogs, the team got off to a fast start, but seemed to cool off offensively after Charleston began to block the lane. Waldron uncharacteristically missed shots that they normally make, and when it was all over, Charleston, behind a physical and relentless defense, and a good offensive performance from Ross and Jordan Fenner, proved to be too much for Waldron on this night. The Tigers survived a furious fourth quarter comeback effort from Waldron to eventually win the game 82-52.

Brayden Ross led Tigers scorers with 32 points. Jordan Fenner poured in 31. Tigers Trenton Goodson had 7, Brandon Scott 5, Geoffery Scott 4, and Dalton Curtis 3. The offensive explosion, combined with holding Waldron and their explosive scorers to 52 points was the story of the game.

Charleston coach B. J. Ross was excited over the team’s total effort on Tuesday night. “I thought we played a complete team basketball game. We executed our defensive game plan. I thought the difference in the game as the energy and intensity. Geoffery Scott did a great job on Peyton Brown. Big turning points in the game were Trenton Goodson’s three-pointer at the buzzer at half and Brayden Ross’s three pointer at the buzzer to end the third quarter. Jordan Fenner played his most complete game of the year. Brandon Scott (a freshman) has really handled the pressure well and did an outstanding job controlling the game.”

Make no mistake; Waldron is a great team, and Tuesday night, playing on the road, it was not the Bulldog’s night. The rematch in Waldron should be a barn burner, and it will be a game that fans from both schools will not want to miss. Waldron will be tough in their building given the desire to even the score with Charleston and what will be at stake for both schools in the conference standings.

With the win, the Lady Tigers maintained their hold on first place in the conference. Charleston is now 14-2 overall and 5-0 in conference play. The Lady Tigers are in first place with Elkins at 3-1, West Fork 3-2, Lincoln 3-2, and Cedarville 2-2. Waldron is now 2-3 in conference with Greenland 1-4 and Mansfield 0-4. Charleston will host Mansfield this Friday night at Tiger Center.

The Tigers win improved the boys record to 7-5 overall and 4-0 in the conference. The Tigers are tied with Elkins in league play; both with 4-0 records. Waldron drops to 4-1 on the season in conference play. Greenland is 2-2, Cedarville and Mansfield are 1-3, and Lincoln is 1-4. West Fork rounds out the conference at 0-4. The Tigers will play Mansfield this Friday and have a make-up game to be played with West Fork (postponed last Friday due to severe weather in West Fork.)

For the senior boys, there is a lot of basketball left to be played. The rematch with Waldron later in the season will be an important game for both schools with respect to the conference standings. Games with Elkins will also play an important role in not only who wins the conference but the eventual order of finish in the conference and seedings in the all-important district tournament. Last night’s win was huge for the Tigers, but they will have to come off of the win quickly to refocus on the next game coming up in the conference schedule.

Barring injury, the Lady Tigers appear to be hitting mid-season form on their way to the district tournament and beyond. Charleston is an experienced team, both in varsity play and in playoff experience. I expect Charleston to continue their march to the district title and deep into the state playoffs. If this team continues to hit their stride and play the way they are capable, Charleston should be a strong contender for another state title. There is a lot of basketball left in the season, and the playoffs are certainly no guarantee for any team, but this is a state tournament experienced team and they know what it will take to be successful in the tournament.

The Tigers played a tough non-conference schedule that, although it resulted in early season losses, has toughened the team and has prepared them to play their best in the conference. This was evidenced last evening against a very good Waldron team, and the boys have an opportunity to make a state playoff run of their own.

The next six weeks should be fun for Charleston fans. But first things first. The Tigers and Lady Tigers will need to simply focus on the next game up and not get ahead of themselves. But, this is what they know. It is part of the championship culture at Charleston High School.

Waldron City Council Votes to Continue Business as Usual

Tammy Teague

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12:50 pm

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Waldron City Council Votes to Continue Business as Usual

The Waldron City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, January 14 at 5:30 p.m. All members of the council were present. Also attending, Mayor David Millard and City Clerk/Treasurer Sherry Johnston.

After the approval and passage of the December meeting minutes, the council heard the city services reports.

Police Chief Jeremy Hunt presented the police report, as well as the department’s annual summary.

Next, Mayor Millard gave a general update on happenings within the city. He also expressed his appreciation to the community and employees at City Hall for making his first year in office a success.

In other reports, City Attorney Mark Johnson discussed district court fines and collections. Then, Johnston reviewed the financial reports and audit schedules.

City Superintendent Brandon Nelson discussed several large water leaks that have recently occurred, and the work within his department. He also reported on the progress at the City Park, flash flood damage, and gave an update on the water treatment plant projects.

Lastly, Fire Chief Ken Overturf provided an annual fire department report. He also discussed the needs of his department, grant applications, and other general business.

A resolution was unanimously approved to set the meeting date, rules and procedures for the Waldron City Council. It is reviewed annually, and was approved with no changes from the prior years.

Construction in residential areas outside of normal business hours was discussed, along with the possible need for a noise ordinance. After some discussion, it was determined that the problem had been resolved.

With no other items on the agenda, the meeting of the Waldron City Council was adjourned.

Greenwood PD Offers Service to Local Churches

Tammy Teague

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11:18 am

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Greenwood PD Offers Service to Local Churches

On Wednesday, January 15, the Greenwood Police Department announced that it would be offering a new service to local churches in an effort to keep parishioners safe.

The department is offering extra patrols, including walkthroughs, and the presence of off-duty officers during service times. “The Chief and the Mayor also gave permission for those officers who are off duty to drive their units to church,” stated Lieutenant Brad Hobbs.

Hobbs, who is spearheading the effort, is also serving as a liaison and point of contact between the department and local churches.

Hobbs and Chief William Dawson learned of the idea from a sheriff’s office in Alabama. “It is something small that we can do that will have a big impact,” added Hobbs.

The service, which is free to those churches located within the city limits, began last week. In fact, five churches have already reached out to the department expressing interest. “We’ve had nothing but positive feedback,” concluded Hobbs.

If your church is interested in this service, please have your pastor call Lieutenant Hobbs at 479-996-4119.

Hackett Earns Sweet Digs In Tournament

Sports

Megan Hecox

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8:55 am

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Hackett Velocity has four volleyball teams representing their town and they are already showcasing their talent and making their community proud. On January 11th, the Lady Hornets took their skills to “Volley in the Ville” in Russellville and walked away with some nice bling. Their 13U team earned a fifth-place spot while the 14U team remains undefeated on the season after snagging the Champions title. The 15U group picked up a second-place title and the 17U squad was crowned Champions as well. Team Velocity 17U (pictured) is coached by Mandy Foster and represented by Kenadi Wright, Sarah White, Madeline Freeman, Jamye Durham, Kandace Byrd, Madi Taylor, Rain Vaughn, Shayla Foster, and Brooke Holt.

Team Velocity 15U is coached by Bethany Crosswhite and is formed by Olivia Bouse, Teonna Best, Abby McBride, Tori Blanton, Laci Cox, Kyleigh Hill, Lilly Slavens, and Mackenzie Mendenhall.

Team Velocity 14U is coached by Bridget Freeman and consists of Makenzie Freeman, Lexi Gann, Taylor Nichols, Prairie Vaughn, Aubree Ruggles, Alona Rothwell, Lilly Oxford, and Mallory Craig.

And Team Velocity 13U is coached by Audrie Chaney and her players are Jessie Mendenhall, Maya Carter, Payten Oliver, Addison Nemeth, Laitlyn Holbert, Camryn Stiles, Jenna Honkala, and Pate Jones.

All four teams will remain busy playing and dominating in tournaments all the way until March.

Jr Lady Tigers Claw Past Pirates Plank

Sports

Megan Hecox

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4:38 pm

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Anytime the Mansfield Jr High Lady Tigers are on the court, a victory is expected. But on Monday, January 13th, the Lady Tigers were faced with an actual challenge as the Cedarville Lady Pirates pushed Mansfield to their limit. It took the Lady Tigers a full four quarters to finally sink Cedarville, but sink they did.

The first quarter was full of mental mistakes by both squads as bad passes were made and simple shots seemed daunting. Ending the quarter with a mere 8-6 score in the Lady Tigers’ favor, you could feel the tension in the air. Once both teams got a feel for each other, what was a sloppy offensive game soon became a solid defensive game. Steals, blocks, rebounds, and pure aggression was the name of the game. With all of that on the court at once, the Lady Tigers still held on to a small 18-11 lead at the half.

The third quarter was a mixer filled with a combination of the first half. But, as everyone knows, the fourth quarter is where games are won. The Lady Tigers came to life as they sent a title wave of Mansfield Lady Tiger basketball roaring towards Cedarville. Mansfield brushed off their offensive rust and laid down the law of Tiger court.

The break-out star of the night award most definitely goes to freshman Seven Sanderson who led the way with a season-high 11 points including going 5/6 from the free-throw line. Harlie Fuller and Natalie Allison made short work of the Lady Pirates with cat-like moves to score seven points each. Skylynn Harris used her keen precision to knock down four points.

Kynslee Ward made four points and seven of the 21 total steals. Ward is now just a slight handful of steals away from setting the junior high steals record in a season. Alyson Edwards played another incredible game where she yet again earned a double-double on the night with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

After Monday nights out of this world victory against the Cedarville Lady Pirates, the Mansfield Jr High Lady Tigers move full speed ahead in their season with an 11-2 basketball record. The junior high will play their makeup away game against Greenland on Wednesday, January 15th at 4:00 then turn around and play Charleston at home on Thursday, January 16th at 6:00.

Spikes For Days For Mansfield Team Velocity 15U

Sports

Megan Hecox

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3:19 pm

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Spikes For Days For Mansfield Team Velocity 15U

On Saturday, January 11, the girls from Mansfield Team Velocity 15U hustled their way through nine other teams in the “Volley in the Ville” held in Russellville. The girls went 7-1 in pool play and came out with a third-place win in the gold bracket. “There is always room to improve but the girls looked good all day long,” explained Coach Shannon Elmore. Coach Elmore along with Coach Tari Ward are beyond proud and excited about how far their girls have come.

Skylynn Harris finished the tournament with two aces, 39 digs, 50 kills, and 17 blocks. Natalie Allison ended with 53 assists, four blocks, 10 kills, 32 digs, and 14 aces. Brooklyn Adams earned three aces, 42 digs, and 16 kills. Alyson Edwards netted two assists, four blocks, 13 kills, 34 digs, and three aces. Cole Smith grabbed six aces, six digs, three kills, and 25 assists. Alayna Turner obtained three assists, one block, three kills, three digs, and five aces. And Kinsley Ward scored 26 digs.

“The girls play very well together. This is year five of club play for most of them. They put in the hard work needed to achieve the bigger goal which is a state title for the school. All these girls deserve that and continue to work hard to get there. The future looks very bright for these girls!” Team Velocity 15U will travel this weekend to Fayetteville to play in the Ozark Challenge.

Mansfield 14U Velocity Team Attacks V-Ball Tournament

Sports

Megan Hecox

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2:40 pm

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Mansfield 14U Velocity Team Attacks V-Ball Tournament

Coached by Brandi Heydenreich, the Mansfield 14U Velocity volleyball team saw successful tournament play this past weekend on Saturday, January 11th. The girls spiked their way through four other teams at “Volley in the Ville” held in Russellville at the Tucker Coliseum. The team consists of Kaile Sysakyavong, Rachel Johnson, Katelyn Corson, Kynley Simpson, Trinity Triska, Presley Curry, Kaylee Ward, Harlie Fuller, and Shelbie Fuller.

Team Velocity fought their way through three teams, Paris, Fort Smith Juniors, and Alma, during pool play placing 2nd and placed third in the gold bracket. The girls lost in tournament play to Hackett. “We are pretty much a first-year team together. I have four returning players from last year. So to me, it’s pretty impressive that they are doing this well just out of the gate,” exclaims Coach Heydenreich. Team Velocity 14U will compete next on February 8th in the MidSouth Power League in Conway.

Paris Sweeps Booneville in Monday Night Junior High Hoops Action

Sports

Resident News Network

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1:17 pm

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Paris Sweeps Booneville in Monday Night Junior High Hoops Action

Paris made the short trip to Booneville on Monday night to play the Bearcats. When the night was over, the Eagles left town with a pair of wins in both boys and girls junior high games. Both games were played with the intensity you would expect from this long-time rivalry. Booneville is a very tough place for visiting teams to play, and even tougher to leave with a win. The Paris wins are big for their teams and their futures next year as senior high teams.

The Paris Junior Eagles improved their record to 9-4 on the season with a 50-43 win. Jesse Wells led Paris with 16 points and Konnor Edwards had 15. Sam Muldrow rounded out the scoring leaders for Paris with 11 points. The game could be characterized as heated and intense. Paris, behind hard defensive pressure and pressing the ball on offense to create scoring opportunities, bounced back from their Thursday night loss at Fountain Lake by winning in a tough environment at Booneville. This team continues to improve and should make an immediate impact once they are eligible for senior high play.

The Paris Junior Lady Eagles won an intense game over Booneville by a score of 32-25. Rachel O’Neal was the leading scorer for the Lady Eagles with 10 points and 4 rebounds. Annabelle Perry, a seventh grader, came off the bench to score 9 points. Brailey Forst had 7 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, and 3 steals. Jayden Wells had 6 points and 2 steals. Annalise Stanford had 4 points and 3 steals. The Lady Eagles, playing on the road in a hostile environment, survived significant foul trouble to hang on to the lead to defeat the Lady Bearcats.

Paris coach Dustin Williams was pleased with his team’s ability to overcome adversity on the road in the victory over Booneville. “It was a tough, physical game versus a rival school. I thought we did a good job of handling some adversity early. We had a seventh grader (Perry) contribute tonight with some important points and minutes off of the bench. She provided a much-needed spark off the bench and scored the last 6 or 7 points of the first half when we found ourselves in heavy foul trouble. We turned up the defensive pressure in the second half and started playing our style more. We were solid from the free throw line in the second half. In fact, I’m not sure we missed a free throw. Booneville is a very well-coached team. They have an identity and system in place over there and you can tell the kids feed off of it. They always play well at home. It’s always good to come out of there with a win.”

The next game for the Paris junior Eagles and Lady Eagles is next Monday night, January 20, at Lamar. The games should be another intense conference match-up between two schools who have talented junior high squads and will continue the traditions of good high school teams for both schools over the next three years.

Booneville travels to Paris tonight for the senior high match up between the two schools. Both the Eagles and Lady Eagles are on an upward trend having won big road games last Friday night at Two Rivers. Both teams look to continue the improvement and to move up in the standings in conference play as the season goes into its final month before the district tournament.

Jr Tigers Edged Out By Cedarville’s Sword

Sports

Megan Hecox

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12:12 pm

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Jr Tigers Edged Out By Cedarville’s Sword

If you missed the match-up between the Mansfield Jr High Tigers and the Cedarville Pirates on Monday night, you sure missed a good one. If the game were to be summed up into one idea, it reminded me of the old Batman television show with its Booms!, Zaps!, and Pows! The first quarter ended with Cedarville up 10-8 on the Tigers. By halftime, the scoreboard read 24-15 Pirates. The Tigers might have been down they sure weren’t out yet.

Mansfield came back out after the half with a bigger fire in their stomachs than they started with. The Tigers did everything in their power to claw their way out of the Pirates clutches but by the final buzzer, it was Cedarville that took the win 44-37. Mansfield finished the night with nine steals and 16 rebounds. Tyler Turnipseed ended the game in double-digits with 12 points while Clint Stovall trailed with nine.

Drew Elmore put up six points, Austin Quinalty netted five, Braxton Byers laid claim to three, and Darton Hoopengarner put two points under his belt. With a few areas left to work on like defense on the perimeter and running shooters off the line, the Tigers are a sure bet at becoming an unstoppable force. The Jr High Tigers will play in a make-up game against Greenland on Wednesday, January 15th starting at 4 p.m.

7th Grade Lady Tigers Lose Loot To Pirates

Sports

Megan Hecox

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11:23 am

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7th Grade Lady Tigers Lose Loot To Pirates

The Mansfield 7th Grade Lady Tigers recently fell short to the undefeated Cedarville Lady Pirates in a tough game on Monday, January 13th. “Our improvement over the course of the last few weeks has been in great strides,” explains Coach Joshua Bryan. “This group continues to work hard and their willingness to learn is showing more and more each day.” The Lady Pirates took the 16-9 treasure but the Lady Tigers aren’t letting this discourage them. Their improvement up to this point of the season is proof enough that Mansfield is only getting started.

The Lady Tigers kept it close at halftime 10-5 with Cedarville leading but just couldn’t keep a tight grip on the scoreboard. Shelbie Fuller led her team offensively with four points in the books along with five rebounds and one steal. Trinity Triska played with speed and agility giving her three points, one rebound, and three steals. “The girls are becoming more patient with the ball and not forcing as much as they have been at the start of the season. We reverted back to that bad habit a few times during the game and Cedarville capitalized on it. Take away our forced turnovers and it’s a 1 point ball game.”

Maylei Rogers is always a powerhouse when she hits the court knocking opponents out of the ring as she dominates the game. Rogers brought in two points, six rebounds, and two steals. Ambria Whittaker, Presley Curry, and Kaylie Lowery accomplished rim control duty as they successfully earned a combined eight rebounds. “Our hustle is more than it has been because our girls are getting used to the speed of the game and knowledge of their positions on the floor. We’re covering the help side and rebounding much better on defense; again knowledge of the game.”

“The 7th Grade girls have an abundance of intellectual and athletic young ladies that will only continue to get better the more they play the game. If they keep growing at their current pace, they’ll be ready for junior high next year.” The 7th Grade Lady Tigers will next play the Charleston Lady Tigers on Thursday, January 16th at home at 4:30 p.m.

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