Resident News Network

Hackett School District Sets New Vaping Policy

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9:39 am

Hackett School District Sets New Vaping Policy

When Hackett students return to school following Christmas break, there will be a new policy in place by school officials, who hope to curb the vaping epidemic.

The policy, which was adopted at the last school board meeting, will be in effect on January 6. High School principal Michael Freeman said “as a district, we feel that vaping has serious immediate negative health effects on students, as well as harmful long-term effects. The new policy has stronger consequences for students that possess or use vape products on school campus or school trips. We will continue to look for ways to keep our students safe and hope this policy will encourage students to avoid vaping.”

The new policy adopted by the board reads as follows:

E-CIGARETTE (VAPING) PRODUCTS
Since it is generally understood that e-cigarette (vape) use can be harmful to one’s health, it shall be the policy of the Hackett Board of Education that all students shall be aware of the physical/mental effects of the use of e-cigarette (vape) products.
The smoking, use, or possession of e-cigarette (vape) products in any form in or on any property owned or leased by a public school district, including buses or at any location on a school-sponsored trip at any time is prohibited. Prohibition on the school campus includes use by students, staff, and school visitors. The prohibition includes any product that is manufactured, distributed, marketed or sold as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, e-pipes, or under any other name or descriptor.
ACT 1331 authorizes school personnel to confiscate and immediately destroy e-cigarette (vaping) products in the possession of persons under the age of 21.
Students who violate this policy may be subject to legal proceedings in addition to student disciplinary measures. The following penalties will result:
1st offense: 2 days out-of-school suspension and 2 days in-school suspension.
2nd offense: 3 days out-of-school suspension and 3 days in-school suspension, police will be notified with student subject to legal proceedings in addition to any student disciplinary measures.
3rd offense: 5 days out-of-school suspension and 5 days in-school suspension, police will be notified with student subject to legal proceedings in addition to any student disciplinary measures.
Additional offenses: disciplinary measures as determined by the principal, police notification, and/or expulsion.

Additionally, the school has a new emergency hotline set up. This allows anyone to submit confidential tips regarding self-harm, weapons on campus and/or serious threats of violence toward students and staff. The school urges anyone who is aware of such threats, to text “hacketttips” to 226787.

Sr Rattlers Add Wolverines To Their Winter Fur Collection

Sports

Megan Hecox

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8:41 am

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Sr Rattlers Add Wolverines To Their Winter Fur Collection

The Magazine Sr High Rattlers got their first win of the season on December 13 when they hosted the Western Yell County Wolverines. With a final score of 57-45, this game puts the Rattlers on the map with a 1-4 season record. The fire in the snake pit was ignited after WYC hit a three-pointer giving Magazine the push that they needed. Once the Rattlers found their place on top, they never relinquished the power.

Cameron Raggio kept a strong offensive pace the entire game leading the Rattlers with 23 points. Josh Brackett gave the boot to the Wolverines by putting up 14 points. Ashton Droemer lit up the board with six points. Jacob Hall and Brady Watson made their presence known with five points each. And Jack Kirbo and Nate Bryan secured two buckets apiece.

“The boys are really starting to come together as a team,” stated Head Coach Buck Chappell. “With a previous turnover average of 23 a game, the Rattlers were able to knock that down to 13. We played without Kaeden Trejo but he is planning to be back in action in our next game.” The Magazine Rattlers will next face the Golden Arrows at Lavaca on Tuesday, December 17 for their first conference game of the season. Games will start at 5 p.m.

Christmas in Bell Park

Networks

Tammy Teague

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7:16 am

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If you’ve never been to Bell Park in Greenwood at Christmas time, you simply must go! It’s a beautiful drive-thru display of lights, reminiscent of a Hallmark movie.

Every year, following the Thanksgiving holiday, members of Focus on Greenwood work tirelessly to create the display. And, every year, they have added a new feature for loyal patrons to enjoy. The light tunnel, the newest addition, has been popular for visitors and photographers.

There are still several more days to enjoy the display before it closes on December 26. Friday, December 20, is movie night. “The Grinch” will be featured from 6-7:30 p.m. Then, on Saturday, December 21, there will be a hayride, cocoa and live music from 6-7 p.m.

Proceeds from the Trail of Lights benefit Greenwood families in need through the charitable organization, Focus on Greenwood.

Other seasonal activities for the family include visiting the Santa House on the square. The event is limited to the first 20 children each night. The Santa House will be open on Tuesday, December 17, Thursday, December 19 and Friday, December 20. Storytime begins at 5:30 p.m., and children can visit with Santa from 6-7:30 p.m. To receive a free pass to the Santa house, contact Stephanie Griffith at 479-597-0170 or email her at stephanie.griffith@greenwoodk12.com.

City of Hartford Hosts Tree Lighting and Parade

News

Tammy Teague

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9:29 pm

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City of Hartford Hosts Tree Lighting and Parade

On Saturday, December 14, the City of Hartford celebrated by bringing back a tradition to the town with a Christmas parade.

The festivities kicked off with breakfast at the Masonic Lodge at 7 a.m. Emergency responders from Monroe, OK, Midland, Huntington and Mansfield joined Hartford fire and police. The Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, and the mounted patrol was a unique addition to the parade.

Everyone had a great time, and the parade was a huge success. Following the parade, the community once again came together to witness the lighting of the town’s tree.

Kinslow Credits Team Effort in Success of Special Election

Tammy Teague

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2:19 pm

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Kinslow Credits Team Effort in Success of Special Election

It’s no secret that the traffic in Greenwood has been an issue for drivers and commuters for years. As the city has continued to grow and expand, the problem has continued to worsen.

Mayor Doug Kinslow celebrated as voters passed a traffic relief measure, 3-to-1, last week. He is quick, however, to give credit to all who made its passage possible.

“It was a huge team effort,” stated Kinslow. Adding that Finance Director Tom Marsh, Dr. James Burgess, Senator Mathew Pitsch and former Representative Charlotte Douglas helped push the proposal.

Kinslow wasn’t the first mayor to search for answers to the age-old problem. He was, however, the one who was able to get the job done and submit a feasible plan to the Arkansas Department of Transportation. Furthermore, Kinslow’s plan was put together without asking for any new tax.

In order to formulate that plan, ARDOT recommended Kinslow have available four things: money, easements, right of ways, and be willing to take over the section of highway. Burgess, whom Kinslow dubbed “Mr. Greenwood,” was one of the land owners who made the plan possible. “He was clear, he wanted to see the traffic relief proposal pass,” added Kinslow. “It was very important to him. He wanted it for the future of Greenwood…and at 88 years of age, he let me know that he wants this to be done in his lifetime.”

The city held several town hall meetings to help the residents understand how the plan will be implemented. “I was not confronted by a single business person downtown who was afraid they would be shut down.” In fact, he recognizes that business owners could very well benefit from the bypass, noting that drivers often avoid pulling out of traffic to grab a bite to eat or shop out of concern that they won’t be able to get back onto the highway.

The plan will help disperse traffic. For example, a semi-trailor truck will be able to bypass Greenwood on their way to or from Booneville. Drivers won’t be out of the way if they need to access a street back into the city, but the bypass will provide them a way around for the work commute.

The preliminary surveying has already been done, but now the real work begins. Kinslow estimated that the “shovel will go in the ground within two years.”

Although the mayor hadn’t yet spoken with Burgess, he admitted that the pair will most likely “hug and shed a tear or two.” Congratulations to Kinslow, and to all who played a part in accomplishing the passage of this traffic relief plan. The future is bright for the City of Greenwood!

Waldron PD and SCSO Team Up For Shop with a Cop

News

Tammy Teague

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12:12 pm

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Waldron PD and SCSO Team Up For Shop with a Cop

On Saturday morning, December 14, the Waldron Police Department partnered with the Scott County Sheriff’s Office for Shop with a Cop. Officers and deputies assisted 45 children in fulfilling their Christmas wish lists.

It’s an annual tradition for both departments, who partner with the school district. The event takes a great deal of planning and financial assistance from the community, but the payoff is well worth it, seeing the smiles brought to children’s faces.

One officer recalled a child from a previous trip who wanted to shop for members of his family instead of himself. “It was truly heartwarming,” he stated.

Driver Ken Overturf bussed the children to the Walmart in Greenwood. Associates there greeted and entertained the kids as each eagerly waited their turn to shop. Also attending, Mayor David Millard, who has spent many years himself alongside children at these events as a former police officer and chief.

The Waldron Police Department was gracious to those who made Shop with a Cop possible. “Many thanks for the generous donations from businesses and individuals, which made this event possible! Thanks also to the Walmart associates for hosting the event and for helping entertain the kids as they waited their turn to shop…We also want to recognize Sherry Johnston, Waldron Schools, Ken Overturf (our brave bus driver) and Linda Vaughn for their efforts in coordinating this event each year. This is a wonderful opportunity for our officers to build relationships in our community and spread the joy of Christmas!”

Lady Hornets Are Taking Cheer All The Way To The Top

Sports

Megan Hecox

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2:34 pm

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Lady Hornets Are Taking Cheer All The Way To The Top

The Hackett Hornet Cheerleaders continue to improve with every competition that passes. One example is that they’re scoring 20 points higher than they were at the beginning of the tournament season. “On November 16, Hackett placed 3rd at Hot Springs with the team that placed first having won State in our division for the last two years,” explained Coach Courtney Sangster. “The team that placed 2nd has made it to finals the last 2-3 years. To even be close to teams like that our first year makes me so proud!”

On December 14, the Lady Hornets brought home TWO first place trophies at the Bentonville Invitational. The girls had to perform their cheer in prelims, then the whole routine in the finals. This set up is to help teams prep for State. Hackett won 1st in prelims and 1st in finals.

Next, they’ll head to Hot Springs for State on December 21 with plans on continuing their Hornet takeover. At State, Hackett will have to perform all three components of their routine (cheer, fight song, and band dance) individually. Based on those scores, the top teams will move onto the finals where they’ll perform their routines as a whole. There are 24 teams in the 1-3A Game Day Division this year so the bar is definitely set high.

“Coach Katey and I are so excited for state. We could not be any prouder. These girls have worked so hard this competition season. They have fought to prove that cheer IS a sport and they are a force to be reckoned with. We are looking forward to State and the future of the Hackett Hornet cheer squads!”

2019 Arvest Invitational A Success

Sports

Megan Hecox

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2:00 pm

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The 2019 Arvest Invitational did not disappoint this week as it featured some thrilling basketball games, great performances, and big-time shots. The Acorn Tigers, Mansfield Tigers, Ozark Hillbillies, and Waldron Bulldogs all showcased their talent and crowned two teams champions.

The girls’ side of the action featured the Lady Tigers of Acorn and Mansfield battling it out for the title. The game was close throughout but saw Mansfield finishing on top to be awarded the 2019 Arvest Invitational Championship and the Acorn Lady Tigers bringing home the runner-up plaque. In addition to the team awards this year, the tournament included the “Lacey Pollard MVP” award. This award is in remembrance of Lacey who was a Lady Bulldog basketball player who approached life with determination and an infectious smile. That same determination was displayed by Natalie Allison of Mansfield as she was awarded the MVP award.

The boys’ championship game matched the Ozark Hillbillies against the Waldron Bulldogs. The Hillbillies, which features a squad packed with young talent, flew to the Bulldogs behind some solid defense and good guard play. The boys’ MVP award is in remembrance of Josh Waddle whose hard work, commitment, and no-quit attitude was just a few of the characteristics that made him an impact on the Waldron community. This year’s MVP displayed those same traits and was awarded to Trenton Hunt of Waldron.

“I would like to offer a tremendous ‘Thank You’ to the Arvest family and especially Mrs. Shelley Buckles,” expressed Coach Josh Atchley. “Her desire to support the area kiddos and mine are aligned, and she is the facilitator of a phenomenal Jr High tournament. This week could not be possible without her and all the ladies at Arvest. There are a lot of moving parts to run a successful tournament and several people stepped up to rock this past week. Rogers Sparks, Ray Jett, Mac Davis, Cody Mahar, and Kerry Barnett are some of the best score table people around, along with Mrs. Gina Efurd and Kristen Atchley running the hospitality room, and Coach Brown doing whatever needed to be done. We are so blessed as a community to have people ‘step up’ and help our kiddos. Thank You!”

Jr Lady Tigers Crowned Champions At Arvest Invitational

Sports

Megan Hecox

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1:18 pm

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Jr Lady Tigers Crowned Champions At Arvest Invitational

This past week, the Mansfield Jr High Lady Tigers kept themselves busy participating in the 2019 Arvest Basketball Invitational held at Waldron. The Lady Tigers started gameplay on Wednesday, December 11 against the Waldron Lady Bulldogs. The Lady Tigers wanted to start the tournament off with a dominant victory and that’s just what they did pummeling Waldron 48-23. Skylynn Harris was on fire as she led the ambush with not one, not two, but four nothing but net 3-point shots and ending with a grand total of 20 points.

Also helping the scoreboard light up was Kynslee Ward and Harlie Fuller with 10 points each. Natalie Allison, Alyson Edwards, and Seven Sanderson combined for the remaining eight points. And Harris and Serenity Brunson each snagged six rebounds. The Lady Tigers should have worn ski masks to the game as they brought in a total of 19 steals also.

The next night on December 12, the Lady Tigers were chomping at the bit to square up against a much larger Ozark Lady Hillbillies squad. The matchup wound up being a walk in the park for Mansfield as they were firing on all cylinders to take their second victory of the tournament 41-13. The Lady Tigers defensively owned the Lady Hillbillies as the team racked up 22 rebounds, seven assists, and 23 steals. Offensively, Allison and Edwards mopped the floor with the Hillbillies and led the Lady Tigers in scoring with 10 points apiece. It was a breakout game for Sanderson as she made her presence known by powering her way to eight points along with multiple rebounds.

Fuller secured five buckets for the Lady Tigers while Ward, Harris, and Raine Hecox combined for eight. The final day of the Invitational came on Saturday, December 14 and the Lady Tigers were slated to play the Acorn Lady Tigers in the championship round. Both teams were in this spot for a reason. They were equally matched in skill and determination. Getting the win was going to come down to who could achieve the final push.

The entirety of the game was back and forth hardwood madness. Both Lady Tiger teams delivered incredible speed offensively and pure grit defensively. Scoring was a team effort in this one as Mansfield had seven different players making buckets. Harris started out strong with nine points, but Acorn forced foul trouble on the Tigers star to keep her in check. That’s where teamwork made the dream work for Mansfield. Natalie Allison led the team with 11 points. Ward and Edwards combined for four points each. And Sanderson, Fuller, and Brunson combined for 12 points on the game.

In the end, Mansfield was able to pull ahead and take the win 37-30 along with the championship. Natalie Allison racked up a double double with 11 points and 11 rebounds in the game. Allison was also named girls MVP of the 2019 Arvest Invitational. Next up for the Jr High Lady Tigers will be the Lady Wolves at Lincoln on Tuesday, December 17 starting at 4 p.m.

Waldron Falls In Dardanelle Sand Storm

Sports

Megan Hecox

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9:12 am

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After falling 60-64 against the Dardanelle Sand Lizards on the road this past Friday, December 13, the Waldron Sr High Bulldogs are ready to focus on their upcoming conference play. The Bulldogs sit with a 7-3 total season record and come December 16, prepare to watch the first column start spiraling out of control.

Helping to secure the 60 points from Friday nights game versus the Sand Lizards was Payton Brown with 38. Gada Wagner with seven. Jacob Avila with four. And Mason Ford, Bryson Bailey, Braden Williams, Isaac Villarreal, and Ruben Valdez combining for 11. Waldron earned a 47.7 field goal percentage also making 28 of their points in the paint. The Bulldogs snagged five steals, seven assists, and 36 total rebounds with Ford leading with 11.

For the first time in a month, the Bulldogs will be playing back at home on Monday, December 16 when they open conference play against the (4-4) West Fork Tigers. During the 2018 basketball season, Waldron took a close one-point victory of 68-67 on West Forks’ home court. This time around, the Bulldogs plan to vastly improve on the point gap when the Tigers come to town. Games start with Jr High at 4 p.m.

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