Friday night’s high school football match-up between the Mountain Home Bombers and the Harrison Goblins was full of surprises on the sidelines, but not from the student athletes.

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After the first quarter, representatives from the Arvest took the field and announced four $5,000 gifts from the Arvest Foundation. The Mountain Home High School booster club, band and the Mountain Home Education Fund each received donations in memory of Lucas Todd, a Mountain Home High junior who was killed in a pedestrian accident before the beginning of this school year.

Todd was involved in athletics and band, and had intentions of applying for the Promise Scholarship from the Mountain Home Education Fund.

“Our students and community will always remember Lucas for his character, perseverance, achievements and his kind heart,” said Dr. Jake Long, superintendent of the Mountain Home School District. “This gift is a lasting way to honor him, as it will benefit many students this year and in the future. On behalf of our students, their parents and our faculty, we are very appreciative of the thoughtfulness and generosity behind these donations.”

In recognition of the theme of Friday’s game, “Tackle Cancer,” Arvest asked anyone in the stands who was battling cancer, or who had tackled cancer, to stand and be recognized. In recognition of their battle, and in honor of each individual, Arvest representatives presented a surprise donation of $5,000 to the Peitz Cancer Support House.

“The fight against cancer is draining – for those who are ill, and for their families,” said Melissa Hudson, director of the Peitz Cancer Support House. “Every gesture of support for our patients is incredibly meaningful and beneficial in their recovery, so we are very grateful to Arvest for this support.”

“Tonight was very meaningful for us and we were honored to be able to support the people of Mountain Home through these investments in education and health care,” said Sally Gilbert, market president of Arvest Bank in Mountain Home. “Our communities are stronger, healthier and a greater place to live when work together to support our friends and neighbors.”

Prior to the game, Arvest and the Peitz Cancer Support House co-hosted a Bomber tailgate party at the stadium to celebrate the first home conference game of the season.

About the Arvest Foundation

The Arvest Foundation seeks to provide funding to grantees who are actively working to create positive change for others. Major areas of focus include: K-12 education, economic development, and enhancing the quality of life throughout the Arvest footprint. For more information, go to www.arvestfoundation.org.