Thanks to innovative thinking and a generous donation from Russellville Superintendent Bart Flener’s mother, Ms. Jean Flener, and his nephew, Andy, happiness and smiles were seen on the faces of many students on Wednesday, May 20.

Earlier this year, Ms. Flener contacted her son and stated she was concerned about the students spending too much time inside their homes in front of screens. Ms. Flener is a huge sports fan and will turn 90 years old in October. Her son stated she always loved to see her own children actively playing in the yard with any kind of sports equipment and toys. Therefore, she wanted the Russellville students to have something to play with outside.

She asked her son to order all sorts of playground items: footballs, basketballs, 4-square balls, wiffle balls and bats, and soccer balls. Mr. Flener affectionately titled this project as “Memmaw’s Memories.”

The plan was to distribute them at the same time the meals would be delivered by buses. One of the bus drivers said when a ball was given to one of the students, he dropped his meals and took off with the ball! He thought they had their priorities straight.

Superintendent Flener said, “What an awesome day for Russellville schools! Food Service meals and some very cool sporting goods delivered via ‘Meemaw’s Memories Project’ brought over 200 balls and bats to our students.”

Meemaw said, “I want those kids playing sports outside this summer!” Her wishes were fulfilled! Such a thoughtful gesture! Please know We R grateful!