Resident News Network

Jr Tigers Fall Short But Still Stand Tall

Sports

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6:56 pm

Jr Tigers Fall Short But Still Stand Tall

On Tuesday, August 27, the Mansfield Jr High Tigers suited up for war and headed into enemy territory as they took on the Hackett Hornets. As the battle insued both teams took turns firing off massive shots at each other in a close and very exciting rivalry game. After the smoke settled, the Tigers came out with a 20-13 loss.

The first half of the game was dominated by defense. The Tigers didn’t hold back on their massive tackles as they hit the Hackett offensive players with pops so loud they had fans putting in earplugs. Manfield defensive backs Tyler Woolbright, Greyson Baggett, and Logan Cravey were head hunters all night putting the Hornets on notice with hit after hit after hit.

Mansfield went into halftime down 6-0 to Hackett, but that didn’t last long as the 3rd quarter started with Tiger fireworks. On the opening kickoff of the 3rd quarter, Drew Elmore imposed his will on the Hornets by forcefully stripping the ball from the Hackett returner and taking it all the way to the house tying up the game at an even 6-6.

On Hacketts very next possession, Mansfields Ashton Toon picked off a Hornet pass giving the Tigers the ball right back. Quarterback Fisher Willsey then threaded the needle with a pass hitting Darton Hoopengarner for the quick Mansfield Tiger touchdown. Clint Stovall tacked on the extra point giving the Tigers their first lead of the night at 13-6.

Although the Tigers lost a close one, they definitely showed intensity and grit as a team by defensively creating multiple turnovers and offensively creating big-play capabilities. “Overall I thought we did fairly well,” says Head Coach, Tim Cothran. “The humidity really got to us. When we got tired some of our assignments and our discipline broke down. That hurts a little bit but we will work to improve all of those things and be ready for the next one.” The Jr High Tigers will see action again when they host the Waldron Bulldogs on Thursday, September 5 starting at 5:30 p.m.

These Birdie Gurus Are Up To Par

Sports

Megan Hecox

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6:01 pm

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Its been a tee-mendously hot golf season, but the Magazine Rattlers are doing their best to not only beat the heat but their opponents as well. Magazine golf sits in the 2A-4 conference with Acorn, Danville, Hackett, Lavaca, Mountainburg, and JC Westside. Headed by Coach Buck Chappell, the Dragons golf team does swing better than the 1920s.

“The kids are really starting to get better,” says Coach Chappell. “Every player has improved their scores throughout the three matches they have competed in. Michal-Ann Dobson is my leading girl. She will shoot below 100 at District. Newcomer Carter Betz and 2nd-year player Cole Gilbert are my best two players on the boys’ side. Both groups are suffering with this heat and are more than ready for this cool weather.”

Skunks, Bats Chief Reservoirs for Rabies in Arkansas

Outdoors

Tammy Teague

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4:29 pm

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Skunks, Bats Chief Reservoirs for Rabies in Arkansas

By Mary Hightower
U of A System Division of Agriculture

There have been 23 reports of animals testing positive for rabies, according to a year-to-date map released by the Arkansas Department of Health.

“Skunks and bats are the main reservoirs for rabies in our state,” said Heidi Ward, extension veterinarian for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

Fifteen rabid skunks and six rabid bats were reported from Jan. 1-Aug. 27 this year. “We have had two horses positive for rabies this year,” she said, which is very unusual. “Last year, we had a positive cow.”

One of the horses was in White County, the other in Pike. On the plus side, “so far, this has been a good year with low numbers,” she said. “Not long ago, we had over 100 cases by this time of year.”

In 2012, there were 131 cases of rabies, with 101 being skunks and 22 being bats. In 2013, that number leapt to 152 with 118 skunks and 26 bats. In 2014, there were 150 reports of rabid animals. Skunks made up 109 of those reports, with bats at 33. Numbers of reported infected animals began to decline in 2015.

“The weather has a huge impact” on the numbers of reported rabid animals, Ward said. “Wild animals are seen around populated areas more frequently during times of extreme heat and/or drought, presumably to seek out water sources.”

Both 2012 and 2013 saw areas of intense drought in Arkansas. To see the maps from 1990-2018, visit https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/pdf/Rabies_Maps_1990-2018.pdf. To learn more about the Arkansas Department of Health’s rabies reports, see: https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/rabies.

Rabies can be transmitted from animals to humans through a bite and the saliva of an infected animal getting into the wound. It can also be transmitted if the virus-bearing saliva gets into mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth. The virus works its way through the body’s nerves toward the brain. It is fatal when left untreated.

“This is a disease that can be prevented in people and domestic animals by a vaccine,” Ward said. “If someone sustains a bite from a bat or a skunk, be sure to clean the wound and see your doctor immediately. People should stay away from bats and skunks at all times, but especially if the animals appear sick or disoriented.”

Rabies kills more than 60,000 people worldwide every year, mostly in Asia and Africa. For more information about this disease, see the fact sheet “Rabies” at https://www.uaex.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-8018.pdf.

Magazine Jr High Not “Rattled” By Non-Conference Loss

Sports

Megan Hecox

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3:49 pm

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Magazine Jr High Not “Rattled” By Non-Conference Loss

On Monday, August 26, the Jr High Rattlers exchanged blows with the Bigelow Panthers in an old fashioned ground and pound football game. Although the Rattlers didn’t walk away with the win, they did walk away with some much-needed game time experience. “We saw a lot of positive things on Monday,” said Coach Doug Powell. “We saw improvements from last Friday nights scrimmage against Cedarville, as a whole, and as individuals.”

“I felt we competed well and accomplished our goal of betterment. Defensively, we had several kids be more aggressive and improve their tackling. Offensively, we saw improvements on the line and our backs cut upfield for positive yards.” Tuesday, September 3, the Jr High Magazine Rattlers will host the Lamar Warriors.

“There is no real prep for Lamar, just line up and find a way to get the job done. We will take the previous experiences, whether it be practice or games, and win the battles presented that given night. We are focusing on the refinements and the successes that each player achieves. We will always play to win, but our primary goal is to amplify our players’ knowledge and ability. With those two things and some success along the way, we will do well in future seasons!”

Photos courtesy of LaWaynea Cox

Henson Pinned for 45 Years of Service with Post Office

Networks

Tammy Teague

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3:33 pm

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Henson Pinned for 45 Years of Service with Post Office

On Tuesday, August 27, 2019, Mansfield Post Office employee Richard Henson was pinned and honored for his 45 years of service.

Also present were former Postmaster Neil Jones, and several of Henson’s co-workers. District Manager David Camp commended Henson by stating “…I am pleased to recognize your accomplishment. The good reputation of the postal service depends on the loyal service of its employees and I thank you for your contributions throughout the years.”

In addition to the 45 year service pin, Henson was also honored with lunch, cake and cards. Henson responded with gratitude, “I want to give special thanks to all the wonderful employees that I work with for the surprise party, and to Neil Jones for being there.”

Henson has no plans to retire, however. He has become part of the daily lives of so many. His customers are delighted that they will be able to keep him around for a while longer!

Congratulations to Henson on this monumental achievement!

Richard Henson celebrating his 45 Years’ Service Award with Hartford Clerk Shelley Tomlin and Rural Carrier Associate Linda Lowery.
Richard Henson with his 45 Years of Service Award from District Manager David Camp.
Former Postmaster Neil Jones recalling past adventures of Rural Carrier Richard Henson during his 45 Years of Postal Service.
Rural Carrier Richard Henson celebrating 45 Years of Service with Mansfield employees and former Postmaster Neil Jones.

Obituary – Pauline (Milligan) Stuart (1932- 2019)

Obituaries

Tammy Teague

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3:23 pm

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Obituary – Pauline (Milligan) Stuart (1932- 2019)

Pauline (Milligan) Stuart of Waldron, Arkansas went to be with her Lord and Savior, Sunday, August 25, 2019 surrounded by her loving family. Pauline was born November 3, 1932 in Maulden, Arkansas to Ben Milligan and Alena (Fryar) Milligan. She was 86 years old. Pauline was a lifetime member of Hon Baptist Church in Hon, Arkansas. She served as song leader for many years. She was strong in her faith and loved the Lord.

As a young woman, Pauline met and married the love of her life, J.C. “Red” Stuart. Together they worked hard, made a life in Hon, Arkansas and raised two children they were very proud of. Pauline loved going to the lake, crocheting, quilting and reading Louis Lamar books. She was notorious for her green thumb and being able to grow anything or revive what others couldn’t grow. A lot of people have memories of Pauline during her 35 plus years of working as security guard in what started as Burns Security for Valmac Ind. that eventually became what is known today as Tyson Foods, Waldron.

She might have been wearing a uniform of a security guard, but she was always a lady with her hair fixed and doting a crisp, pristine uniform. She had a smile that lit up a room and was a very kind and loving woman.
Pauline leaves behind to cherish her memory, one daughter, Debra Hefner and husband Steve of Russellville, Arkansas and one son, Harvey Stuart and wife Linda of Y-City, Arkansas. Grandma will forever be missed by her grandchildren: Anastacia Meredith and fiance Patrick Johnson of Russellville, Arkansas, Anthony Meredith and wife Camillia of Rocky Comfort, Missouri, Lindsay Sliger and husband Chris of Waldron, Arkansas and Hannah Stuart of Y-City, Arkansas as well as her great grandchildren: Katie Strunk, Kymberlee Strunk, Avarie Meredith, Kasey Kincaid and Kylie Sliger. Pauline is also survived by two sisters: Diane Nixon of Van Buren, Arkansas and Jewell Yandell of Plainview, Arkansas, and one sister in law, Lessie Dean Stuart of Hon, Arkansas. Pauline will be missed by all that knew her and the many whose lives she impacted including a host of nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones dear to her heart

Pauline was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, J.C.”Red” Stuart, her parents, Ben and Alena Milligan, four sisters: Ann Watkins, Imo Jean Bentle, Francis Hunt, Janie Isom and one brother, O’Dell Milligan.

Pauline’s life celebration will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 30, 2019 at the Hon Baptist Church in Hon, Arkansas with Rev. Don Nelms officiating. Interment will follow in the Center Point Cemetery in Hon, Arkanas.

Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas. Pauline’s pallbearers will be Anthony Meredith, Eric Terry, Billy Bentle, Joe Bob Bentle, Michael Hall and Steven Passmore. Honorary pallbearers will be Bobby Strunk, Jerry Green Travis Yandell, Justin Nichols and Philip Nichols.

Pauline’s visitation will be Thursday, August 29, 2019 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home.

You may leave words of comfort and remembrance for Pauline’s family by visiting: www.heritagememorialfh.com.

MMS Students Celebrate Heydenreich on Her 100th Birthday

Networks

Tammy Teague

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2:39 pm

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MMS Students Celebrate Heydenreich on Her 100th Birthday

Mansfield Middle School students greeted a special guest of honor on Tuesday, August 27, 2019. Ms. “Margie” Heydenreich celebrated her 100^th birthday in the cafeteria with seventh and eighth grade students. She was given a large card signed by MMS students, a golden card from the faculty and she also received a dozen long stem yellow roses which are her favorite flower.

A loud chorus of “Happy Birthday “ echoed through the cafeteria as students and faculty welcomed her on this special birthday. Mrs. Lamb’s class invited Ms. Margie to a special luncheon in their classroom. Students prepared fruit and vegetables to compliment the beautiful birthday cake served in the class. “Ms. Margie’s stories were amazing’, stated Jeremiah Butler. “She was so inspiring to listen to; her stories are like a never ending book,” said Aspen Seajack. The classroom was decorated with a banner, balloons, and Ms. Margie was given a Birthday sash that lit up like her eyes as she interacted with the students. Jesse Cook reflected, “I loved her being here with all of us”. Nathan Conley summed up the day; “When she hugged me, it felt so awesome, it made me feel good about myself!” The students worked hard to ensure Ms. Margie’s visit to the school was a success. All of them were excited to have her here and are looking forward to her coming back to visit again! Mansfield Middle School students hope that Ms. Heydenreich had the best birthday ever!

Attention All Basketball Lady Tigers Between 2004-2017

Sports

Megan Hecox

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2:03 pm

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Attention All Basketball Lady Tigers Between 2004-2017

Coach Bryan is updating the record book for Mansfield Girls Basketball. He is looking for any female athlete between 2004-2017 that might see somewhere their name should be added in any of the following categories. Please have proof of the potential record(s) to give to Coach Bryan so that he can get you in the rightful place in the school record books. Examples of proof are newspaper clippings and or other news based outlets that show your record setting performance.

Holiday Hot Spots

Outdoors

Tammy Teague

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2:00 pm

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By Jim Harris, AGFC

Looking for a fishing getaway over a long holiday weekend? West-central Arkansas has some hot locales, according to customers who frequent Lisa Spencer’s bait shop in Benton. Lisa says that for two weeks in a row she’s been hearing that many people are catching lots of little bass and then some nice-size crappie at Lake Nimrod. Most are using No. 12 bass minnows there. And at Lake Ouachita, some very nice crappie being caught off the No. 4 crappie minnows by several people, and big bream off of crickets there as well. “Plus, I have a guy that has been going to Ouachita and using No. 6 crappie minnows and said him and his wife have been averaging 20-25 crappie but they have been huge slabs,” Lisa reports. Or, you can stay rather close to Lisa’s Bait Shop and fish for some really big bream that are biting near the Saline River Access right now. Bass are good, too.

At Norfork Lake in north Arkansas, Tom Reynolds (above right) or STR Outfitters informs us that said the August full moon has helped the striper bite on Norfork Lake. “I had five guided trips this past week and all but the last one caught their limits. (Sunday) we boated eight and missed or broke off 10 more. The bite has been awesome for us. I’m fishing at the dam and caught limits of stripers that must be kept because of the depth of the water column the fish are in. My son is fishing north on the Missouri side of Norfork Lake and catching big stripers that can be released.

“I went with him on Tuesday and boated seven that were between 12 and 20 pounds. The last two days he has boated a 22-pound and 26-pound striper, again all of them have been released. They are also catching stripers above the state line before Udall but those must be kept since the water is warmer. The fish are in 30 feet of water on the bottom.”

If you journey to Northwest Arkansas for the football game and bring a pole with you, Lake Sequoyah has a great catfish biting going on now, they say. Maybe you can catch your tailgating meal before the 3 p.m. kickoff Saturday for the Hogs’ opener. Over at Lake Fayetteville in the NWA Mall area, the black bass are good in the mornings (perfect!) and the bream are good as well. On the northeastern side of the state (where A-State opens its season at 6 p.m. Saturday night vs. SMU) you can spend the first half of Saturday fishing for bream at Crown Lake, as big ones are being caught there, according to Boxhound Marina. Bass are biting well late in the evening.

Folks hanging around central Arkansas and wanting a catfish bite ought to check things out at the Little Maumelle River. Ray Hudson at River Valley Marina says the catfish bite is great. Black bass and bream are good, too, so that should keep things interesting for anglers.

Jr Hornets Shut Down Tiger Ambush

Sports

Megan Hecox

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11:16 am

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When the Hackett Hornets and the Mansfield Tigers get together, fans across the area know there’s going to be an epic showdown. With a rivalry that dates back decades ago, the Jr High Hornets and Tigers were up first to get things started for the 2019 football season. Mansfield landed in black and gold territory on Tuesday, August 27 and as expected, a supernova pigskin battle ensued.

The Hornet captains for the night were Nate Gordon, Cole Ketchum, Cameron Rundel, and Tyler Pittman. The first quarter of the game saw evenly matched action between Mansfield and Hackett. But by the second quarter, the Hornets were warmed-up and the action was in full bloom. Eli Slavens set the field on fire during this round with a running total of almost 50 yards. Nate Gordon got in his own 15-yard run and at the two-minute mark, Cameron Rundel was the first Hornet to slap a touchdown on the board putting Mansfield and Hackett into halftime with a 6-0 score.

After a Tiger steal for a touchdown put the score at 13-6 Mansfield, the Cole Ketchum quarterback dynamism was set into motion. Securing a 36-yard carry on the Tigers kick return, Ketchum keeps the ball for another Hornet touchdown. With the added two-point conversion, the score is brought to 14-13 Hackett and the fourth quarter gets underway.

With four minutes left in the game, Ketchum scored one more Hornet touchdown and the game ended with the scoreboard reading 20-13 Hackett. The Hornets defense was over the top with their colossal blocks and their precise prevention in allowing the Tigers very little scoring opportunity.

“I thought we played well at times,” stated Coach Michael Meador. “We need to be more consistent at executing on offense and defense. The best thing about the Jr. High last night was how we battled back after adversity. We had a chance to lay down but we didn’t. We kept on fighting the entire game. Our coaching staff thinks this team has a bright future if we continue to bring a great attitude to practice and work hard!” The Jr High Hornets will next hit the road to face Heavener on Thursday, September 5.

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