Former Lady Tiger distance runner, Hannah Holstein, breaks from her own training routine to wish the Mansfield junior girls well before their first race of the 2018 season.
It was 7:30 AM as the Mansfield school bus drove down Massard Road in Fort Smith. The long yellow dog was less than five minutes from its destination at Ben Geren Park. Inside the bus was a load of junior and senior high kids alert and anxious for their first cross country competition of the year.
“Look over there,” exclaimed John Mackey, Mansfield’s current head coach. “There’s your 2012 state champion. That’s Hannah! She’s still running.”
Mackey was pointing out the window of the school bus towards one of his former star pupils. Mansfield High School Lady Tiger, UA Fort Smith Lion, and University of Central Arkansas Bear alum, Hannah Holstein, was running the trails of Chaffee Crossing.
“That’s how you become a champion,” proclaimed Mackey as he proceeded to fire up his troops before the morning races. “Hannah’s always running. She just graduated college with a masters degree, and running paid for it. You want to be a champion? Be like her.”
Hannah Holstein graduated from Mansfield in the spring of 2013. That previous fall in November of 2012, the ultra-dedicated, spit fire runner rocked the infield of Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs to win the class 3A state individual cross country championship.
Recently retired teacher, Bill Frye, was the head cross country coach back then. Mackey was an assistant distance coach at the time, and Holstein’s head track coach.
“Hannah really worked at it,” remembered Mackey as he reflected back on Holstein’s cross country and track career in high school. “Most people want to win, but aren’t willing to do what it takes. Hannah was willing. She wanted to be the best, and did something about it. She was incredibly disciplined.”
Holstein was out this particular morning because she’s in training to run a half marathon in November. Although her collegiate athletic career ended in May as she completed a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics at UCA, her desire to run still remains.
After an outstanding high school running career, Holstein signed to run cross country for UA Fort Smith. Two years later she transferred to the University of Central Arkansas, a NCAA Division 1 school, to continue her education and athletic prowess.
Now, as an employee of Sparks Regional Hospital, Holstein is putting her college education to use and spending her free time doing what she has always done best; run.
Mackey sent Holstein a message after he parked the bus for the Fort Smith Invitational. He had a group of nearly 30 kids eager to participate in the four race schedule that morning, and he wanted to know if she would come by and say hello.
“I’m getting some water and heading over,” was the replay from Holstein as she completed her 10 mile morning jog.
“So good to see you. How many you got running? Tell me about your team,” rapid fired Holstein as she found Mackey and the gang at camp along the fringe of the Ben Geren course.
“Let me introduce you to some of our kids,” responded Mackey as he knew some of the younger runners in particular were in awe of the famous Lady Tiger graduate.
It didn’t take long for Holstein and some of the current Tiger troops to pose for a picture after hellos were exchanged.
“It was such a thrill having Hannah interrupt her own training just to come by and say hi to the kids,” spoke the coach. “She’s a real success story that our kids can look too. She once brought her Lion teammates to help time at our track meet. She’s always willing to come speak to our kids about nutrition and training tips.”
When asked before the start of the junior girls’ 2 mile race that morning, Holstein was quick to give a few pointers.
“Stay to the inside on the curves,” advised the former state champion. “Don’t get boxed in, and stride out on the downhills.”
For now, Mansfield’s hometown hero is staying close to the area and willing to give advice. As Mackey confessed, Holstein helped as he mentored 2018 MHS graduate, Megan Rose, as she finished her high school career and now runs for Southeastern Oklahoma State.
Holstein’s immediate future includes qualifying for the New York half marathon. Don’t be surprised if a few extra Tiger fans aren’t in her corner, cheering for the girl that said hello.
Hometown Hero Runs in for a Hello
Freshmen Turn Page At Magazine Event
If cross country season were a novel, you might say that Mansfield’s freshmen class did a speed read over its first two chapters.
After turning a ream of awards at their first meet, the rising freshmen core once again flew through the pages at their second. At the Magazine Invitational on September 11, ninth graders Ethan Chapman, Steven Perez, Faith Rainwater, and McKenzie Griffin each collected another armful of accolades.
Rainwater, the lead runner for the Lady Tiger junior girls’ team, was only 11 seconds away from first place at the Magazine 1.5 mile race. Keira Hall of class 4A Mena took the individual title at 9:43. Rainwater (9:45) poured it on in the closing 600 meters to snag second place among 103 runners.
“Faith has really been training hard this season,” exclaimed head coach John Mackey of Mansfield. “She’s followed the plan since May and through the summer. She’s on top of her game and it’s showing at the meets.”
A week before Magazine’s shorter distance race, Rainwater was first at the longer 2 mile race in Fort Smith.
“The shorter race kind of hurt all our athletes,” observed Mackey. “We’ve been training for much longer events, especially in the senior high. The short mile and a half track threw off our pace.”
Chapman, also a winner at Fort Smith, crossed in third place for the MHS junior boys’ team. His time for the 1.5 mile distance was 8:15.
“Ethan had another good showing,” confessed the coach. “Again, I think the shorter distance but us at a disadvantage. Our junior high kids, especially the freshmen, are built for the longer runs.”
Griffin and Perez made the top ten in consecutive weeks for their respective junior high squads. Griffin came in at 10:17 for eighth place among the girls. Perez pushed through at 8:26 for eighth place among 124 junior boys.
Mansfield’s junior girl squad carried home their second trophy this infant season. This one was a runner-up plaque with 76 accumulated points. Lamar finished first with 62 points. Pottsville picked up a third place team finish among nine scoring schools and a dozen schools represented.
“We had a home volleyball game that same day,” revealed the Mansfield mentor. “That may have hurt our overall scoring. Two of our top five players play volleyball.”
Harleigh Mars, Hope Rainwater, and Raine Hecox completed the Lady Tiger scoring. Mars and Hope Rainwater are among that freshmen core making a solid name for themselves. Hecox is a seventh grader that the coach describes as a fast learner with a will to win.
Heidi Ebarb, Jadelynn Wood, and Alyssa James provided blocker positions. Darby Jones and Lauren Poston also competed among the large group of Mansfield distance runners.
Mikeal Harrison, John Branche, Ashton Hinkle, and Logan Yoss completed the junior boys racing docket. Harrison, Branche, and Yoss also hail from the freshmen class. Hinkle is a grade younger.
Collectively, Mansfield’s junior boys finished fourth as a team.
Mansfield’s senior teams ran the same course as the junior teams. Learning of the shorter distance just before the start, the older Tiger players had little time to form a fast paced strategy. Consequently, their times made little dent in the standings.
Newcomer Anina Reutter of Germany led the MHS senior girls as the first Lady Tiger to cross the finish line. From there the consecutive order of Mansfield finishers were Alyssa Berry, Josefin Lofving, Jessica George, Sara Willadsen, Addison Goetz, and Janna Coplin.
As a group, the Mansfield women were fifth among all contending schools.
Among 99 senior high boys, Mansfield’s two entries finished in the upper half of the large field. Renden Emery (9:05) and Artem Zirka (9:09) were 38th and 41st place overall.
The Mansfield cross country schedule shows Acorn as the next stop on the Tiger tour. That event was scheduled for September 18. Looking ahead even further, some team members will travel north to Fayetteville for the University of Arkansas’s Chile Pepper Festival on September 22.
A week beyond that, Mansfield will host its home meet on September 29 at 9:00 AM along the boundaries of the high school campus.
Waldron Historic Signs, a “Badge of Honor”
By Tammy Moore Teague
A decade ago the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program recognized the City of Waldron as a Commercial Historic District. It wasn’t until recently, however, that the city received the signs to mark the notable historic sites.
Waldron City Clerk and Treasurer Sherry Johnston was instrumental in the city being recognized. “There was a team who came, they did an architectural resources survey and researched our downtown to help determine if we qualified for the designation,” explained Johnston. Adding that “AHPP guidelines state that to be eligible to form a historic district, at least 51 percent of buildings within the proposed district must be at least 50 years old and not have undergone extensive alterations.”
This endeavor called for labor intensive research. Local resident, Kim Keener, played a vital roll in that area. Johnston acknowledged the invaluable support of the Scott County Historic and Genealogy Society as well as Blythe’s Museum. It was discovered that the oldest buildings still standing were built circa 1880. The National Registry of Historic places found “Many of the buildings, vacant and occupied, have boarded windows and original facades making it seem as if time has stood still in this district.”
The AHPP’s goal is to add more of the state’s historic downtown areas to the National Register of Historic Places. In exchange, they offer cities like Waldron a tax credit and some grants. “The Arkansas Regional Coalition of the Ouachitas has placed a priority on tourism development for our three county area,” explained Johnston. “Tourism is one of the easiest and less expensive industries to develop when you live in an area where there are so many resources. Our goal for ARCO-Scott County is creating a sense of place and community that’s intimate, genuine and organic. We want to draw people to our community and to Main Street because we know once they are downtown they are more likely to stay awhile, visit shops, and eat in one of our area restaurants.”
After being placed on the registry, signs were erected to mark notable historic places. These signs promote heritage tourism and recognizes the historical value of the community. Johnston noted that the placement of the historical signs were a long-time coming. The Board of the Arkansas Coalition of the Ouachitas (ARCO) is comprised of some of the business and elected leadership of Montgomery, Polk, and Scott counties. “We each have a local group that works directly in each county,” stated Johnston. “Our ARCO-Scott County has been driving this effort for the historical signs. However, we needed some assistance.”
Historian and Preservationist Ty Richardson, owner and operator of Richardson Preservation Consulting, was just the person who was needed. Johnston praised Richardson’s efforts by adding that “not only does he have a passion for preservation, but he especially has a passion for preservation in his hometown of Waldron!” Richardson prepared a written plan for placement of the signs, researched the information for the signs, and ordered them. WeighTech saved the city money by fabricating the poles and city employees installed them. This provided the city with significant savings.
The north and south boundary of the Waldron Commercial Historic District are each indicated with a small sign. Within the boundary, there is a historical sign on both the east and west sides of Main Street with information about different time periods. There are additional historic signs at the C. E. Forrester House, an 1896 home located at 140 Danville Road, and the Old Scott County Jail, a 1908 block and stone building located at 125 West 2nd Street. The former jail building now houses the Scott County Historic and Genealogy Society.
With the historical signs now in place, the Arkansas Department of Transportation will place “official” state signs on U.S. Highway 71, indicating the historical designation. The signs will be on either side of the West 2nd Street exit on U.S. Highway 71.
“The designation as a commercial historic district and the placement on the National Register of Historic Places are really a badge of honor. We wear the recognition proudly as it reminds us of the past history of our town and reminds us of where we’re going,” concluded Johnston.
If you are interested in reading the full report from the National Register of Historic Places, you can –click here.-
Midgets and Pony’s Hit the Field
By Joe Hall
The Lavaca Little League Football teams opened their 2018 seasons on Saturday. Both the 3&4 grade “Pony” and the 5&6 grade “Midget” teams took the field to face the Mena Bearcats. Both Lavaca teams took it on the chin to open the season. Lavaca Pony’s lost 28-0 while the Midgets lost 28-6.
As these Arrow teams prepare for next weeks games at Heavener, these are some positive things to look at. For the Pony’s, there were several good tackles at the line of scrimmage. The Bearcats had difficulties running up the gut. If the Pony Arrows can contain the ends against Heavener, they can eliminate the big plays that cost them today. Sammy Miller (42), Mason Brown (26), and Gavin Oliver (22) all had tackles for losses. Offensively, Finn Schmalz (5) ran the ball hard with some success. The other key to this game was turnovers. Pony Arrows coughed up the ball 3 times. The good news is that is something that can be resolved.
For the Midget team, they found themselves or the wrong end of field position most of the night, having to start their drives from deep in their own side of the 50. Like the Pony’s, the Midgets were stingy between the tackles and as they tighten up the containment they should be able to right the ship. The Bearcat scores mostly came on end around and pass plays. But again, theMidgets do have some really good things to hang their hat on. Caleb Brewer (44), and Ethan Leonard (4) ran the ball hard picking up extra yards after contact. Defensively, Hudson Noel (34) recovered a Bearcat fumble. Lavaca’s only points came from a pick 6 interception by Tanner Griffith (23). Tanner returned the ball 75 yards for the score.
This was not the results that these two Lavaca teams were looking for, but they need to keep their heads up. There are adjustments that no doubt will be made before their next outing. If these kids will keep working hard and believe in each other, they will see the results that they are looking for.
As Always
Go Arrows!
Arrow Pride!
MPIC’s Blue Ribbon Cook-Off, a Tasty Success!
By Tammy Moore Teague
Around 33 hungry people showed up at the Mansfield High School Cafeteria on Saturday and they didn’t leave disappointed! The Blue Ribbon Cook-Off, sponsored by Mansfield Parent Involvement Committee, was spearheaded by President Amanda Wilson.
The food categories were main dish, side dish and dessert. Servers plated up sample portions of each entry and the public voted for their favorite. Winners were:
Main dish: Rose Slaughter, Italian cheese tortellini.
Side dish: Brittney Himes, sweet and spicy meatballs.
Dessert: Donna Gillis, blackberry cake.
Additionally, a dozen of Hurt’s Doughnuts were prized to Lisa Cass. Wilson extended her gratitude to those who helped volunteer and make the inaugural event a success. Special thanks to Candy Davis, who purchased the donuts and Travis Pettus, who donated the use of his PA system.
Robertson Appointed to City Council
By Tammy Moore Teague
The Lavaca City Council met last week and appointed Lorie Robertson to fill a vacated seat. Robertson, who was the only interested party, was unanimously appointed by the council. She was immediately sworn-in by JP District 1, Johnny Hobbs.
In other business, the council unanimously voted to increase employee compensation for the 2019 budget. Those raises will include at $.30/hour increase for all employees, except for those who are making less that $11/hour. Those earning less than that amount will be raised to $11/hour. Officer Rusty Wilson will get a pay raise of $12/hour and all new hires, regardless of position, will earn a minimum of $10/hour.
Alderman Dale Teague motioned that sealed bids be taken for the retired police car, a 2008 Crown Victoria. The vehicle has 139,758 miles and according to Police Chief Charles Toon, “is in good shape with cold air and good tires.” Teague added that any proceeds from the sale of the vehicle should be earmarked to fund a generator at the new police station. Bids will be accepted at City Hall through the end of September. If you have questions about placing your bid, you can call 479-674-5617.
Prosecutor Seeks To Revoke Williams’ Bond
By Tammy Moore Teague
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Mark Johnson has petitioned the Scott County Circuit Court to revoke the bond of Jessica Williams.
Williams, a former Middle School Assistant Principal, confessed to having an ongoing relationship with a 16 year-old student. Following her arrest, she was released on a $100,000 bond.
However, as part of her release, she was ordered to have no contact with the underaged victim. According to court documents, Williams has allegedly violated those terms. You can view the complete filling here.
Williams faces up to five counts of sexual assault in the first degree as well as one count of tampering with evidence.
See related story–
State Representative Marcus Richmond: Arkansas Rice
PRESS RELEASE-
Half of all the rice grown in the United States, is grown right here in Arkansas. With more than 9 billion pounds of rice produced each year, Arkansas grows more rice than any other state. September is National Rice Month, a time to celebrate the harvest of the small but mighty grain that has been growing in our state since 1910.
Several Arkansas farmers experimented with rice in the early twentieth century, but William H. Fuller of Carlisle is known as the father of the Arkansas rice industry. He was on a hunting trip in Louisiana when he first saw rice being cultivated. Noting similarities between the Louisiana soil conditions and those of the Grand Prairie, he resolved to experiment with rice on his own land.
Today, rice grows in more than 40 counties in Arkansas. There are 2,300 rice farms in our state. Of those farms, 96% are family owned and operated. The annual Arkansas rice crop contributes billions to the state’s economy and accounts for approximately 25,000 jobs, crucial to rural communities.
Arkansas rice farmers are decreasing their use of natural resources. Collectively, the industry is using more than 30% less land and energy than it did 20 years ago. During that same time span, farmers have reduced water usage by half. The industry also gives 100,000 pounds of rice annually to fight food insecurity in Arkansas.
Consuming Arkansas-grown rice helps support our neighbors who continue to produce a quality food supply. One half cup of rice contains only 100 calories. It’s naturally sodium, cholesterol and gluten free. And at 10 cents at serving, its budget friendly. If you are looking for ways to incorporate more Arkansas rice in your diet or if you are looking for recipes, try searching the hashtag #nationalricemonth on social media.
State Representative Marcus Richmond: Arkansas Rice
PRESS RELEASE-
Half of all the rice grown in the United States, is grown right here in Arkansas. With more than 9 billion pounds of rice produced each year, Arkansas grows more rice than any other state. September is National Rice Month, a time to celebrate the harvest of the small but mighty grain that has been growing in our state since 1910.
Several Arkansas farmers experimented with rice in the early twentieth century, but William H. Fuller of Carlisle is known as the father of the Arkansas rice industry. He was on a hunting trip in Louisiana when he first saw rice being cultivated. Noting similarities between the Louisiana soil conditions and those of the Grand Prairie, he resolved to experiment with rice on his own land.
Today, rice grows in more than 40 counties in Arkansas. There are 2,300 rice farms in our state. Of those farms, 96% are family owned and operated. The annual Arkansas rice crop contributes billions to the state’s economy and accounts for approximately 25,000 jobs, crucial to rural communities.
Arkansas rice farmers are decreasing their use of natural resources. Collectively, the industry is using more than 30% less land and energy than it did 20 years ago. During that same time span, farmers have reduced water usage by half. The industry also gives 100,000 pounds of rice annually to fight food insecurity in Arkansas.
Consuming Arkansas-grown rice helps support our neighbors who continue to produce a quality food supply. One half cup of rice contains only 100 calories. It’s naturally sodium, cholesterol and gluten free. And at 10 cents at serving, its budget friendly. If you are looking for ways to incorporate more Arkansas rice in your diet or if you are looking for recipes, try searching the hashtag #nationalricemonth on social media.
MMS FBLA Sponsors Pajama Day
By Raine Hecox
Mansfield FBLA sponsored a Pajama Day, where students were allowed to buy an armband for a $1 in order to wear Pajama’s to school.
All proceeds were donated to sponsor a Christmas Angel. Mansfield Middle School FBLA, raised $100,
Thank You to all the students who donated money for this wonderful cause!