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2018 Mansfield Tiger Football Camp

Who:  Students entering 3rd through 6th Grade
When:  10:00AM – Noon on June 18 and 19th
Cost:    $25.00 ($10.00 for additional sibling)
What to Bring:  Cleats, Water Bottle, T Shirt and Shorts
Description:  Students will be lead through a variety of offensive and defensive drills led by the coaches and athletes on the Mansfield Tiger football team. If there is a good turnout we will split up and participate in flag football games as well. A skills competition will be held on the 19th. Water will be provided. This will be a non-contact camp!
How to Sign UpYou can bring signed waiver and camp fee the day of the camp or sign up and pay the day of the camp. There will be a registration table set up at the stadium entrance. Please make checks payable to MHS Football.

For more information, contact Coach Bentley at (479) 243-3154

>>> CLICK TO DOWNLOAD / PRINT PARENTAL CONSENT FORM <<<

Mansfield Library Summer Reading Program

Children 4 years of age and above are invited to the Mansfield Public Library for a fun story hour every week on Mondays at 10:30 am.
The period will include books, crafts, and activities. The Library will also offer an independent reading achievement program for children to keep track of books read during the summer, earn prizes and incentives, and qualify for a party at the end of the summer on July 26, 2018. Registration begins Wednesday, May 30th.
When – June 11, 2018 – July 26, 2018
Where – Mansfield Branch of Scott-Sebastian Library (City Hall Building) 200 Sebascott Avenue, Mansfield, AR

Local School Providing Free Meals

By Tammy Moore Teague

Hackett Schools have joined the growing list of schools in Arkansas who are taking advantage of federal funding that provides all students with free breakfast and lunch.
The program known as Community Eligibility Provision, or CEP, has now been adopted by 58 schools in the state. The bill passed in 2010 is known as the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act. The bill itself is appealing to administrators as it eliminates the free/reduced meal application process. Additionally, schools are guaranteed reimbursement with the program. 
The greater benefit, however, is to the students. CEP eliminates the negative association of those receiving free and reduced meals. Also, eliminating the embarrassment of those students who lack funds on their account and denied a “regular” lunch. 
The idea behind the act is to ensure that all children, regardless of income, receive meals. School districts are eligible to apply for the program until June 30. 

ARDOT Warns Drivers of Highway 96 Construction

By Tammy Moore Teague
Drivers in Hartford will need to be aware of slow down areas on Highway 96, between Broadway and Olive Street. The Arkansas Department of Transportation, ARDOT, began work today cleaning ditches and replacing culverts.
Rain filled ditches and culverts have created problems for that section of the highway. The department will continue working until the area is cleaned up and necessary replacements made. Anyone traveling that area are encouraged to be cautious and aware of work crews.

Simon Inspires Hackett Team Camp

Over 200 football players descended upon Hackett last Tuesday with Football as their focus. Teams from Cedarville, Clarksville, Gore OK, Hackett, Keys OK, Mansfield, Panama OK and Waldron came to town for Hackett Football Team Camp.
Hackett Football Head Coach, Lonnie Hester stated “Our team camp has become a staple of our Summer program. We had 8 teams and over 200 players who got a lot of reps and gave Coaches an opportunity to evaluate those players in a game type setting. I really enjoy the opportunity to get to see the other Coaches and players in a setting that’s not as formal as a Friday night game. A lot of these kids, you know them and their families. And even though we compete against each other in a game, we want good things for our area kids and we wish them all the best.”
Yes, football was the reason for the gathering, but this camp had a special message far beyond sport. Tyson Simon who was asked by Coach Hester the night before via text message to share his Testimony. Simon showed up the next morning ready and willing. Simon’s message was clear and to the point how sports and Faith coincide, and how both played a vital role in his life, and the reason he was centered among these young men.

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Why did God give you your talents? To help you serve others.” – Tyson Simon

Above, Simon also known as “The FCA Guy” gave his Testimony to the crowd of 200+ who were all ears. Parents in the bleachers, and coaches on the field, were all ears as well. The message was clear and from the heart. Hackett was the destination, Simon was the vehicle, and God was definitely the Focus, the message, and the reason.
Well Done, Hackett.
Photos courtesy of Hackett Head Coach, Lonnie Hester

Tigers UNDEFEATED in Atkins Tournament

The Sr. High Mansfield Tiger football team traveled to Atkins yesterday for a “7 on 7” tournament. In the end, the Tigers went undefeated only to have the semi-finals cancelled by Thunderstorms that appeared late in the day.
The Tigers faced opponents from Little Rock Central (Score 10-7), Clinton (Score 21-7),Two Rivers (Score 30-0) and Sylvan Hills (Score 10-7) and proved to the coaches, and team that their hard work and commitment to Tiger Pride is strong, and paying off.
Without the cancellation of the storms, Mansfield would have faced off against Atkins, Springdale Har-Ber, and Conway Christian in the semi-finals where a Championship game would have followed.
Head Coach, Craig Bentley stated “We’re very proud of this RED TIGER team and what they accomplished.  Our boys were upset they didn’t get to finish what they started. Defense gave up only 21 points in 4 games, which is almost unheard of in 7 on 7. QB and WR’s were on all day. Zero interceptions thrown by us the entire day which is also tough to do. Hoping we can carry this into a big week next week leading into our break. We’d also like to give a huge thanks to all the Tiger Mom’s who donated food for our lunch. That made a tremendous difference.”
Photo credit: Tim Cothran

Vandals Mark Memorial Mile Highway Sign

By Tammy Moore Teague
Two years ago a memorial mile highway sign was erected honoring the lives of former Scott County Sheriff Cody Carpenter and Arkansas Game and Fish Wildlife Officer Joel Campora. 
It wasn’t long after that sign went up that it was stolen. The community and the families of both heroes were deeply shaken and upset by further loss.
The highway sign has since been replaced, however a week before the anniversary of his passing the sign was vandalized. “Please, this not only bothers us as his family but we know there is a community upset,” Cody’s wife, Amie Carpenter said.
She implored anyone who has information on the person or persons involved to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Department. Additionally, anyone who reaches out can do so anonymously. The number to call is 479-207-2024 or 479-637-4155.

Hackett Farmers Market Looking to Flourish

By Tammy Moore Teague

The City of Hackett held its first ever Farmers Market last weekend. Organizer Jordan Clark hopes that the new venture will grow and also encourage citizens to buy local.

The market is set up at 406 North Main Street in Hackett and is slated for each Saturday through October 27. Setup times are from 7 a.m. until noon and the cost is $25 for the season. If someone wishes to try out the market without having to pay for the entire season they can do that for a $10 fee. Vendors must pickup and fill out an application, which are available onsite.

The only requirement to be able to sell at the market is that all items must be locally grown or made within 60 miles of Hackett. If you have any questions regarding the Farmers Market, you may contact Clark at 479-739-7515.

Mayor’s 1st Annual 5K Registration Form

Last week, we wrote about the Mayor’s 1st Annual 5K that is planned for June 30th. We have received the official registration form that you can print, fill out, and return to City Hall, or Amanda Willson. Visit the link below to print.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW/PRINT REGISTRATION FORM

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Mansfield Schools Make Needed Improvements

It doesn’t seem that long ago when Mansfield Schools were in dire straits. A constant change in Superintendent leadership, school board meetings every week, and the cloud of uncertainty looming over the district. Fast forward, that’s all changed and Mansfield looks better than ever.
When Robin Ross, a Texas native was hired to take over the helm as Superintendent, he came in with a single focus. That focus was to get Mansfield back on track as quickly as possible. Ross has one motto that he firmly stands behind, “Our kids come first.”
Changes in a school system are the norm. But, Ross has a mindset that looks beyond what’s needed, and focuses on the what can be done to improve, and attract. “Our entire staff is a team of insightful opinions. Those opinions help us make the needed changes to make everyone’s daily routine better, safer, and more efficient” stated Ross. “It matters if a light bulb needs changed, or new paint is needed on a wall. The little things make a big difference.”
Ross, along with each School Principal took us on a guided tour of what’s taken place in the weeks prior to and immediately following dismissal for Summer break. Join us as we illustrate a few of the major improvements.

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When you walk into the buildings, you will quickly notice that you can’t “just walk in.” Cameras with two-way communications lets school officials know who is needing to come in, and their intent. The doors are remotely unlocked as needed.

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Fluorescent lighting has been replaced with LED lighting. The new lights are easier on the eyes, cost less to operate, and a huge improvement for lighting in general.

Improvements are the focus of Mansfield School Distirct administration, faculty, and staff
New roofing material for the 1st & 2nd grade building has been placed along side the library with planned construction in June / July.

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Mansfield School District was one of the very first districts to change to a lease program that adds safety, and cuts costs. Districts, such as Mansfield can lease (7) buses for what one would cost to buy. Only incurred expenses are tires, oil changes and general maintenance of wear and tear. The buses are covered by Thomas for 3years, or 50k Miles. In that 3yrs there are no major maintenance. “We, and the students are very pleased with our fleet right now” stated Joe Davis

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In the High School gym, a new sound system was installed just before graduation, along with LED lighting. Updating the WI-Fi system will hopefully take place by the end of the summer.

Improvements that are both readily seen, and some that were not is a process the Ross believes in. “We want our students, faculty, and parents to know that we’re working hard to make even more changes. Mansfield has a bright future.” added Ross.