Resident News Network

Arrows use Airedale Classic to stay sharp during Christmas break

Sports

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9:35 pm

Arrows use Airedale Classic to stay sharp during Christmas break

Photos by Amanda Hall

The Lady Arrows took on the Lady Panthers from Clarksville today in the third place game of the Airedale Classic. The Arrows came out and found success driving the ball taking a 22-19 lead into the half. After the break the Lady Panthers came out and rattled off 14 unanswered points. The Ladies from Lavaca cut the lead back to 8 but were not able to close the gap beyond that. The Lady Arrows played short handed due to vacations and injuries which allowed for big minutes by Julianne O’Dell and Shailey Rudd.
Julianne lead the team with 14 points tonight.

Julianne O’Dell season high of 14 points

It would have been nice to win this tournament, but even with the back to back loss, the Lady Arrows gained valuable experience against 4A and 5A schools with deep benches. This level of competition will reap rewards as the Lady Arrows go down the stretch in the 2A. The Lady Arrows are currently in control of their own destiny being undefeated in Conference and tied with Danville for the top spot.

Lavaca boys took on the Elkins Elks in the 3rd place game of the Airedale Classic. The Arrows came out and played solid in the first half. At the end of the 1st quarter, the Arrows lead 15-9. The 2nd quarter was also solid. And the Arrows took a 29-21 lead into halftime. The Arrows came out in the 2nd half and controlled the tempo of the game. When the clock hit 0:00, the Arrows were victorious by a score of 55-48. Andrew Wright lead the team with 16 points.

The Golden Arrows boys team also will come out of this tournament having gained valuable experience having competed against two 4A schools and having only one loss to a 5A school. This should pay off big time down the stretch. The Golden Arrows are currently ranked number 4 in the 2A and tied with Danville for the top spot in conference.

Stay tuned for the back half of the season, it will be fun to watch both of these programs as they prepare to make their playoff run. Both these teams will take the court next on January 3rd at home vs Union Christian. Junior High will also play that night. Junior High girls will start at 4:00. Make plans to cheer on your Arrows.

Cherry to Leave City in “Good Hands”

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5:27 pm

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By Tammy Moore Teague
In a few days there will be a change in leadership within the City of Waldron. However, current Mayor Neil Cherry leaves big shoes to fill. Cherry stated upon his departure he’s leaving the city “in good hands” with Mayor-Elect David Millard.
Cherry has led the city these past few years with great heart and compassion. His departure and decision not to run saddened many residents and community members. It’s evident that throughout his tenure, his decisions and actions reflected the best interest of the City of Waldron.
“During my tenure of working with him I knew that he had great Christian morals and integrity. He always had the City of Waldron’s best interest at heart. I am honored to be able to call him my friend,” stated Millard.
Cherry has spent a lifetime serving others and is truly the heartbeat of his beloved town. Personally, it has been a great privilege to get to know Cherry, and learn his story. Anyone who visits his office and city hall will note the signs that read “In God We Trust.” Cherry is strong and steadfast in his faith and openly expresses his love for Christ. He’s taken this same message abroad with him on mission trips accompanied by his church.
Also adorning his office walls, the shadowbox reflecting the precious memories of his son who served in the military, and a pair of worn black cowboy boots sitting on a shelf in his office. These are the same boots he campaigned door-to-door in.
Those who work with him are all quick to share their emotions regarding Cherry’s departure. And, anyone who visits city hall feels the hospitality of family and home.
City Clerk/Treasurer Sherry Johnston, who works with Cherry on a daily basis, reflected on a lifetime of memories. “I have enjoyed working with Neil at the city during this past four years while he’s been in office as Mayor. However, we have actually worked together for many years and been lifelong friends. Our families have been intertwined for many years. When my husband Butch first moved to Waldron, his dad was the first feed mill manager and came when it was being constructed. Butch met Neil when Butch was about 10 years old and Neil began working at the feed mill for Butch’s dad. The original poultry business here in Waldron was AVI. Later in life, Butch worked for Neil as the store manager at Cherry Auto Parts, the NAPA parts store Neil owned and operated. I first met Neil’s dad, Herbert Cherry, when I was a teenager. He had an airplane and I would take rides with him occasionally. Herb was also a carpenter and he built lots of homes around here, including one for my parents during the late 1960’s. I have worked with Neil through community events before he came into office as mayor and I have a business relationship through my income tax business.” Johnston agrees that Cherry will be one who cannot be replaced and has been a great friend and colleague.
Cherry has spent countless hours working with businesses, laboring to bring commerce to the city. During his time, he has overseen many new business constructions and the new City Park. One of the achievements he’s most proud of is obtaining the access point on Highway 71 bypass for future business development. It will allow for a street to connect to the 71 Bypass between Harp’s and the former Wal-Mart property. Additionally, he has overseen the sidewalk construction along West 6th St from Elm to Harp’s Foods, and has overseen the water and sewer improvements during the past four years.
Cherry’s time as mayor can certainly be celebrated, and he will be missed by all. It truly has been a pleasure to get to work with him. In my 20 years of working with city leaders, I cannot recall a mayor whom was more dedicated, caring and faithful. May God continue to bless you my friend. Thank you for all you’ve done for the city and for others!

Rough night for the Golden Arrows, but will be stronger from the battle.

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Resident News Network

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11:36 pm

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Rough night for the Golden Arrows, but will be stronger from the battle.

Photos By Amanda Hall

The Lady Arrows took to the court in round two of the Airedale classic tonight. Coming off of a big first round win against the Westfork Tigers, they advanced to the semi finals were they took on the Alma Airedales on Friday. The Lady Arrows had difficulties moving the ball in the first half and went into Halftime down by 13.

Alma came out in the 3rd and pushed the led to 21 before Lavaca rallied and cut the lead back to 13. The Lady Arrows eventually cut it down to 8 but was it too late to grab momentum. Arrows fell 49-38. Hope Headley lead the team with 14 points and BethAnn May added another 12. Lady Arrows will play at 3:30 Saturday against Clarksville for the third place game.

Golden Arrows boys also took on the Alma Airedales in the semi finals of the Airedale classic Friday. Again, the Arrows had a difficult time in the first quarter dealing with Alma’s full court press and found themselves down by as many as 11 points. The Arrows battled back to only trail by 4 at the break 31-27.

The 3rd quarter was a draw with both teams extending the score but not the lead and the quarter ended 45-41 with Alma on top. In the 4th quarter Alma again extended the lead to 8 and Lavaca had to resort to fouling to battle against the clock but to no avail. The final score was 64-55. Jordan Fenner had 17points and Andrew Wright added another 12. The Boys team will play the Elkins Elks at 5:00 Saturday in the 3rd place game.

Both Lavaca teams battled hard but came up short. Both of these games were a David vs Goliath story that was not to be,…..at least not this night. Alma is a 5A school with huge benches, while Lavaca is a 2A school. For Lavaca, playing this caliber of team will pay off down the road.

CASA Volunteers Needed

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Tammy Teague

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8:44 pm

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By Tammy Moore Teague
CASA, court appointed special advocates, for children of Sebastian County is in need of volunteers. On January 7 at 5:30 p.m., there will be a volunteer/advocate training.
“We really need CASA Volunteers,” a representive stated. “Every child needs a CASA to light their journey through the darkest time of their little lives, foster care. Please let this be your New Year’s resolution, to be a voice for a child. If you don’t do it, who will?”
All you need is common sense and a heart for kids. The staff will train you and stand beside you every step of the way. The number of children entering foster care in our county continues to rise, and the need for volunteers is great.
If you are interested and would like to learn more, you can call 479-785-4171. Additionally, you can learn more by visiting their Facebook page.

Three New Area Mayors to Take Office January 1

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Tammy Teague

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7:42 pm

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Three New Area Mayors to Take Office January 1

By Tammy Moore Teague
On January 1, we will say goodbye to 2018 and welcome in a new year. The cities of Mansfield, Hackett and Waldron will also be welcoming in new mayors.
Mansfield Mayor Buddy Black will be sworn in at the Sebastian County Courthouse in Fort Smith at 10 a.m. on January 1. Additionally, Waldron Mayor David Millard will be sworn in at the Scott County Courthouse at 2 p.m., and Trini Harper will be sworn in at Hackett City Hall at 6 p.m.
Over the next few weeks we will be bringing you stories from each of these city leaders. We will be at each of these ceremonies and bring you complete coverage.

App that Could Save Your Life

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Tammy Teague

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4:17 pm

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When it’s as serious as life and death, you know it’s no game. That’s what the app Vital ICE is, and this simple, free download, could very well save your life.
Heritage Funeral Home owner Sammy Callahan said he highly recommends the app. In any emergency situation, EMS and First Responders play a critical role in life-threatening emergency situations. “Any medical information for the patient that can be provided to them upon their arrival increases the odds of a more favorable outcome. Time saves lives, and Vital ICE saves time.”
According to the website, individual confidential medical information is exclusively stored on the owner’s mobile device and is not able to be viewed or stored by the company or its affiliates.
Vital ICE provides a platform on which to list your vital medical information, such as blood type, allergies, medications, medical history, ICE (in case of emergency) contacts, and much more. This information will then be readily available to EMS and other First Responders when they need it most.
Standard features include, but are not limited to:
• Vital medical information and photos for you and up to 8 dependents
• Email your information to any email address (hospital, physician, or other recipient)
• List of emergency (ICE) contacts
• List of physician contacts (as well as pediatricians and OBGYN when applicable)
• First aid protocol for 16 medical emergencies, when medical help is unavailable
• Record and save a voice overview of your medical information, which can further assist EMS
• Call 911 directly within app, saving time in emergency situations
• Sound an audible alarm to alert first responders to your location
• Receive alerts and notices from local first responders (if a participating organization’s key code is entered)
• Backup / Restore data from your personal Dropbox account (free and easy setup if you do not already have an account)
• Send a group text to up to 10 emergency contacts notifying them of your emergency along with your map location – a mobile life alert system.
• Create a custom wallpaper/lock screen image with your vital information listed on the sides, which can provide first responders with some information if your device is locked
• Medication, immunization, and physician appointment reminders helps keep your medical schedule organized
• Attach photos of current insurance cards, stored in one convenient location, for medical staff to quickly access
Protect yourself and your family by downloading this free In Case of Emergency app today. It is available on both iTunes and Google Play.

Proclaimation Declares Fred Potter Day

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Tammy Teague

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3:50 pm

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By Tammy Moore Teague
On December 26, Fredrick Potter, formerly of Waldron, turned 89 years young. This day in 2018 is particularly special as the Mayor of the City of Alma, where Potter currently resides, proclaimed 12/26 as “Fredrick Rodney Potter Day in Alma.”
Potter has been in an ongoing civil court battle with niece Cassandra Holmes since 2013. Since that time Potter has moved from Waldron to Alma. Mayor Keith Greene described Potter as a “citizen in good standing and through his actions, career, determination to succeed, and inspiration to others, personifies the true nature of how a person can by his example make today a better time for our leaders of tomorrow.”
Green went on to describe Potter’s service record in the United States Marines and Army including a deployment to Korea during the Korean War and in Germany. Additionally, according to the proclamation, Potter has served in the California Army National Guard.
Congratulations to Potter on this great honor, and from all of us at Resident Press, happy birthday!

Putnam Blacksmith Shop

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Resident News Network

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12:42 pm

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By Jack James
You’ll have to really search for a photo as great as this vintage photo, taken in 1908, of the Putnam Blacksmith Shop! This blacksmith shop was on Highway 22 and owned by Mr. William Warren Putnam.
There’s not a lot known about this building and the people, not yet anyway. What we do know is from information written by Roy Putnam on the back of the original photograph: “This picture made 1908 by Dad’s old Blacksmith Shop in Bloomer, Ar. Picture left to right Floyd (Buck)Ward, William Warren Putnam blacksmith, Dewitt Ward merchant, Gerome Tapley Farmer, Roy E. Putnam farm age 13, Albert Price mail carrier to Lavaca.”
The back of a copy of this photo lists the people pictured as Roy Putnam, W.W. Putnam, Rome Tapley, Dewitt Ward, Buck Ward, Price (mail carrier). The sign above door says 7 miles to Charleston.
If you know more about this or other photos on this site, please let us know.

City Honors Mayor at Farewell Reception

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Tammy Teague

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6:33 pm

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By Tammy Moore Teague
Residents of the city turned out to Mansfield Mayor Mike Gipson’s farewell reception on Friday, December 27. Most came and offered thanks to Gipson for the work he’s done for the city.

Mansfield city offices secretary, Stephanie Morgan and Recorder/Treasurer Becky Walker presented Gipson with a plaque of appreciation. “He came in during a tough time and took the job anyway,” said Walker. “He didn’t even take pay for the job. He’s served selflessly.”

Gipson and his wife Karen, and their daughter Miranda Allison all greeted and visited with those who came out. He leaves the city in good hands with Mayor-Elect Buddy Black. Black also attended the reception and vowed to continue working to bring the city together.

Remember The Alamo – Lavaca Cheerleaders head to San Antonio Texas

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Resident News Network

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10:58 am

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Remember The Alamo – Lavaca Cheerleaders head to San Antonio Texas

“Remember The Alamo” will always have a special meaning for two Lavaca Jr High Cheerleaders. Friday December 28th 2018 at 8:00 PM CST, ESPN will be airing the Valero Alamo Bowl live from San Antonio Texas. It should be a good game between the Big 12’s 24th ranked Iowa State Cyclones and the PAC 12’s 13th ranked Washington State Cougars. But the halftime act could steal the show. You will not want to miss it. This year the halftime show will bring together a cast of over 1,000 high school musicians, dancers and cheerleaders from across America. Two of which are from Lavaca Arkansas.

The Lavaca Golden Arrow Cheer squad is deep with talent. Coached by Danielle Overton, their hard work is evident and has paid off in a big way. Not only did Coach O’s team perform on the sidelines during football and basketball games this year, but they also competed in 5 competitions and brought home a State championship. They also had four of the Junior high cheerleaders and five of the High School Cheerleaders qualify as B2 All Americans. Those All Americans are: from the JR High;
Rylie Green, Selena Shelly, Payton McMahan, and Reshia Sparkman; and the Varsity qualifiers are; Morgan Taylor, Taylor Lile, Ali Simpson, Austin Walchli , and Allie Colclasure.

All nine of Lavaca’s All Americans have all been invited to participate in the halftime show for the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio on December 28, 2018. However, only Rylie Green and and Selena Shelly will be participating this year.

The B2 All Americans have arrived in San Antonio for the Alamo Bowl Performance Tour! The group enjoyed dinner on the famous Riverwalk last evening at Casa Rio! Today will be a full day of rehearsal and preparation for what will be an incredible show. See Itinerary below. Tune in tomorrow night and watch for Rylie and Selena to show off their skills on the Big Stage. This will be an event that they will never forget.

Day 1 : Welcome to San Antonio!
– Hotel check-in:
– Alamo Bowl Pep Rally: Join in the fanfare by performing on the legendary San Antonio River Walk at the official Alamo Bowl Pep Rally!
– Directors Reception: Meet your fellow Alamo Bowl coaches and instructors at the Director’s Reception.
– First Rehearsal: Your performers will meet their halftime show choreographer and get right to work! During this first evening of rehearsals, your choreographer will adjust the show as necessary and put on the final touches to the show.

Day 2 : Get Ready for the Big Show!
– Breakfast at hotel.:
– Morning Rehearsal: Today is all about rehearsal! Spend the morning practicing for the halftime show.
– Master Class: In the afternoon, participate in a special master class with our star choreographer!
– Optional Activity: You have the evening free to take in the sights of San Antonio. Enjoy SeaWorld®, Six Flags, or the San Antonio Zoo.

Day 3 : Game Day!
– Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out for the day.
– Final Rehearsal: Head off to the Alamodome for your Final Halftime Show Dress Rehearsal with the entire show cast of marching bands, dancers, cheerleaders, color guard, etc.!
– Alamo Bowl Kick-Off!:

Day 4 : Enjoy San Antonio!
– San Antonio Exploration: After a good night’s rest, enjoy San Antonio a bit more before heading home!

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RESIDENT NEWS NETWORK