April 1, 2020 by The Pulse

April 1, 2020

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Polk County Man Charged with Rape in Utah The Polk County Sheriff's Department, acting on a felony warrant from Utah, arrested 34 year old Guillermo Farias at a residence in Wickes (Polk County) Thursday, March 26. Arrest records show Farias resides in Grannis. Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said that Farias was being held in the Polk County Detention Center awaiting extradition to Utah. According to the Desert News in Salt Lake City, Farias was charged Tuesday in the 1st District Court with rape of a child, a first-degree felony; and three counts of sexual abuse of a child, a second-degree felony. A woman recently contacted the Logan Police Department and reported that Farias raped her at his residence when she was 12 years old in 2012. As the investigation continued, a second victim reported Farias abused her when she was 14 years old. She said her sexual assulted also occured in 2012. Farias will extridited back to Utah to face trail.

Guillermo Farias

Cossatot River High School Teams Win UA Cossatot Battle of the Books

Cossatot River High School 7th Grade Division team took first place during the UA Cossatot Battle of the Books competition on March 13th. pictured from left to right: Cooper Hayes, Jayden Johnson, Easton Johnson, Riley Dunn, 7th Grade Sponsor, Suzanne Kesterson. More photos on pages 8 and 9. Submitted photos.

SWEPCO Donates to Mena/Polk County Senior Center The American Electric Power Foundation has announced $42,000 in emergency funding for two area nonprofits impacted by COVID-19 in Southwestern Electric Power Co’s (SWEPCO) service area. Mena Polk County Senior Center and Scott County Senior Citizens each were awarded $21,000 to provide additional meals to homebound seniors, as well as offer carryout meals, shelf-stable meals and other alternatives for their Meals on Wheels programs should delivery be suspended. The American Electric Power Foundation is funded by American Electric Power

(NYSE: AEP) and its utility operating units, including SWEPCO. “We are pleased to present these agencies with additional funding on behalf of the AEP Foundation as they provide vital services to our community during this extraordinary time of need,” said Jeff Milford, SWEPCO External Affairs manager in Fayetteville. “We want to help ensure that the programs serving our community’s most vulnerable residents can continue and expand.” The AEP Foundation recently approved $1.5 million in emergency funds in response to COVID-19 to support basic hu-

man needs – such as food and shelter – across AEP’s service area. The Foundation provides a permanent, ongoing resource for charitable initiatives involving higher dollar values and multiyear commitments in the communities served by AEP and initiatives outside of AEP’s 11-state service area. The Foundation focuses on improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and by meeting basic needs for emergency shelter, affordable housing and the elimination of hunger.

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April 1, 2020

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This week, the House convened for an Extraordinary Session to address the urgent funding needs in our state created by the COVID-19 crisis. For only the Representative John Maddox second time in recent history, we convened outside of the Capitol. The Jack Stephens Center at the University of Arkansas Little Rock provided additional space for members to adhere to social distancing guidelines of at least 6 feet. All of us were screened by medical professionals before entering the facility. The legislation we were asked by the Governor to consider creates the COVID-19 Rainy Day Fund by redirecting surplus funds. The state currently has a surplus of $173 million. The fund would be used to offset general revenue reductions, funding needs and unanticipated needs created by the COVID-19 crisis.

Polk County Pulse Any expenditure from the fund would require approval of at least two of three legislative leaders in both the House and Senate. Allowing this type of ﬂexibility with the budget is unprecedented, but we are in unprecedented times. This measure helps to ensure the needs we face in weeks ahead can be funded quickly. This legislation also makes it possible to extend the state tax deadline to July 15. Meanwhile, we continue to work on other needs you and your family may be facing during this time. Resources are being made available to reduce waiting times on the hotline for unemployment claims. You can call the hotline at 1-844-9082178 or 501-534-6304. Or go online at www.ezarc.adws.arkansas.gov. While we are facing uncertain times, know that your legislature is here and functioning on your behalf. If you run into issues navigating your way to needed assistance, reach out to your representative. Contact information for every representative is found on our website at www.arkansashouse.org.

Prescribed fire activity temporarily suspended by USDA Forest Service in southern states HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — The Southern Region of the USDA Forest Service announced today that all new ignitions for prescribed ﬁre have been postponed until further notice. The Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are within the Southern Region. “Health and safety are our top priorities,” said Shardul Raval, director of Fire and Aviation for the Southern Region. “This decision respects people in our

communities who are medically fragile and it supports social distancing because our fire crews won’t be out traveling to prescribed fire sites.” The Forest Service always considers the potential impact of smoke on the community when managing prescribed fires and wildfires. Forest Service officials will coordinate with local and state health organizations to adapt if conditions evolve.

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history

April 1, 2020

Reflections from History and Faith: The Pony Express By Jeff Olson “Can somebody tell us what has become of the U.S. mail for this section of the world?” lamented the editor of the Los Angeles Star in 1853, noting that “[it has been] some four weeks since it has arrived here.” Such was often the timeline in communications between the eastern and western parts of the country. This week we take a look at an era of our nation's history which was short in time but long in its impact on the speed of communications in the American West. Expanding settlement in this vast frontier created the need for a reliable means of mail delivery. Initially, this was met by overland stagecoach routes and by steamship routes that either went around South America or included an overland transfer across the Isthmus of Panama or the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico. With national tensions rising prior to the Civil War (1861–65), more expedient transmission of news became increasingly urgent, and the typical 24-day schedule for overland delivery from Missouri to the West Coast proved no longer sufficient. California Senator William M. Gwin is credited for the idea of a more efficient system which he conveyed to William H. Russell, Alexander Majors, and William B. Waddell, owners of a private freighting firm. This firm, the Central Overland California & Pike’s Peak Express Company, would come to be known as the Pony Express. The mail route planned was 1,966 miles long and would have about 190 stations across what are now Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada and California. It would require about 10 days to cover. Each rider: would carry up to 20 pounds of mail (in a specially designed saddlebag), would ride 75 to 100 miles and change horses every 10 to 15 miles or about every 8 stations. The system would use a total of about 400 horses and 80 riders, each of whom were to be paid $25 a week facing the harsh elements of mother nature and threats by bandits and Indians. The initial price for sending mail was set at $5 per one-half ounce, then $2.50, and by July 1861 $1. One Pony Express advertisement was said to have read:”Wanted: Young, skinny, wiry fellows not over 18. Must be expert riders willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred.” A rider’s weight was a factor because it was

important to keep the horses' loads as light as possible. Riders were typically between 100 and 125 pounds and with an average age of about 20, but some were teens and a few were pre-teens. They also were required to take a loyalty oath which stated, “I do hereby swear, before the Great and Living God, that during my engagement, and while an employee of Russell, Majors and Waddell, I will, under no circumstances, use profane language, that I will drink no intoxicating liquors, that I will not quarrel or fight with any other employee of the firm, and that in every respect I will conduct myself honestly, be faithful to my duties, and so direct all my acts as to win the confidence of my employers, so help me God.” Those who broke the rules risked being dismissed without pay, but many did. One hundred sixty years ago this week, April 3, 1860, the first Pony Express riders left St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California. On April 13 the westbound mail arrived in Sacramento, beating the eastbound delivery by two days. Never before in history had letters been delivered over such a distance so quickly. The Pony Express was used mainly by newspapers and businesses and it was remarkably efficient, though not profitable. Actually, it lost money and quite a sum! During its time service, only one bag of mail was reported lost. Perhaps the company’s finest moment came in March 1861 when riders carried the inaugural address of President Abraham Lincoln from Nebraska to California in just 7 days, 17 hours. On June 16, 1860, about ten weeks after the Pony Express began operations, Congress authorized a bill to subsidize a transcontinental telegraph line to connect the Missouri River and the Pacific Coast. While the telegraph lines were under construction the Pony Express operated as usual, essentially bridging the gap between the advancing eastern and western telegraph lines. On October 24, 1861, Western Union completed the transcontinental telegraph line at Salt Lake City and two days later the Pony Express was officially terminated when San Francisco and New York City made direct contact for the first time. In November 1861 the last Pony Express letters completed their journey. Despite operating for only 18 months, Pony Express riders had successfully delivered some 35,000

pieces of mail and traveled more than half a million miles across the American frontier. A total of six riders and sixteen stock hands (at the stations) died in the line of duty. Much has been written about the Pony Express, but very little of it paying homage to those mail carriers that were the most indispensable and worked the hardest. Author Stephanie Grace Whitson included this fitting tribute to them in her historical novel Messenger by Moonlight. “Farewell Pony:

Our little friend, the Pony, is to run no more ... Thou wert the pioneer of a continent in the rapid transmission of intelligence between its peoples, and have dragged in your train the lightning itself, which, in good time, will be followed by steam communication by rail. Rest upon your honors ... Rest then, in peace; for thou hast run thy race, thou hast followed thy course, thou hast done the work that was given thee to do. Sacramento Daily Bee, October 26, 1861”

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police

April 1, 2020

The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT The following information was received from Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer for the week of March 23, 2020 – March 29, 2020. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner. March 23, 2020 No reports were filed. March 24, 2020 No reports were filed. March 25, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 68 near Cherry Hill of a prowler. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 33 near Vandervoort of an ATV accident. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 44 near Dallas Valley of a dog bite victim. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 33 near Vandervoort of a vehicle break-in. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 75 near Acorn of harassment by a family member. Deputy responded. March 26, 2020 Report from complainant on West Dover near Hatfield of an incident involving a dog. Deputy responded. Arrested by an Officer with the Grannis Police Department was Guillermos Farias, 34, of Grannis on a Warrant from another Agency. March 27, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 231 near Cove of vandalism and theft causing damage and loss in the amount of $1145.00. Investigation continues. March 28, 2020 No reports were filed. March 29, 2020 Report from complainant on Hilltop Lane near Hatfield of a disturbance between family members led to the arrest of Dale W. Howard, 51, of Hatfield on Charges of

Public Intoxication and Criminal Trespass. Polk County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce worked no vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 12 Incarcerated Inmates , with 8 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORT Mena Police Department Reports for the Week of March 22, 2020 through March 28, 2020 follow: March 22, 2020 A burglary report was taken at a residence. March 23, 2020 David Sinyard, 44, was arrested for Inhaling an Intoxicating Substance after a call to a department store. March 24, 2020 A report of a dog running at large was taken at a residence. A report of a prowler was taken at a residence. March 25, 2020 A report of harassment was taken at a residence. A report of a dog bite was taken at a residence. March 26, 2020 No reports taken. March 27, 2020 No reports taken. March 28, 2020 Devyn Purcell, 25, and Cristian Kieren, 19, were arrested for Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a call to a department store. A theft report was taken at a residence. Ofﬁcers responded to a disturbance call at a gas station. (All subjects should be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law)

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Arkansans Ordered To Limit Gatherings, Keep 6 Foot Separation, Some Exceptions

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson has repeatedly said he does not want to order Arkansans to "shelter in place" or "lockdown" citing the need to keep residents working and the economy moving, but today, as he promised in his brieﬁng yesterday, the Arkansas Department of Health issued a Directive / Order limiting gatherings "occurring outside a single household or living unit" to consist of no more than 10 people who can stay 6 feet apart. There are some exceptions, as long as they can "maintain appropriate social distancing of at least six (6) feet to prevent the spread of this virus". The directive, which can be read below, also says that "The Secretary of Health reserves the right to exercise his authority to prevent the spread of disease in this State if, in his judgment, any of the excluded entities are operating in a manner that is a risk to public health." Secretary of Health issued a directive order limiting gatherings of 10 people and 6-feet apart. The Secretary of Health, in consultation with the Governor, has sole authority over all instances of quarantine, isolation, and restrictions on commerce and travel throughout Arkansas, as necessary and appropriate to control disease in the state of Arkansas as authorized by Ark. Code Ann. §20-7-109—110. Based on available scientiﬁc evidence, it is necessary and appropriate to take further action to ensure that COVID-19 remains controlled and that residents and visitors in Arkansas remain

safe. All public and private gatherings of any number of people are subject to the following directives and exceptions: Due to the high risk of community spread of COVID-19, gatherings of more than ten (10) people in any conﬁned indoor or outdoor space are prohibited until further notice. Gatherings subject to this directive include, without limitation, community, civic, public, leisure, commercial, or sporting events, concerts, conferences, conventions, fundraisers, parades, fairs, and festivals. This directive does not apply to gatherings of ten (10) or more people in unenclosed, outdoor spaces such as parks, trails, athletic ﬁelds and courts, parking lots, golf courses, and driving ranges where social distancing of at least six (6) feet can be easily achieved. This directive does not apply to businesses, manufacturers, construction companies, places of worship, the Arkansas General Assembly, municipal or county governing bodies, or the judiciary; however, these entities are advised to limit person-to-person contact and maintain appropriate social distancing of at least six (6) feet to prevent the spread of this virus. The Secretary of Health reserves the right to exercise his authority to prevent the spread of disease in this State if, in his judgment, any of the excluded entities are operating in a manner that is a risk to public health.

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April 1, 2020

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116 MORE BROADBAND AND TELEPHONE SERVICE PROVIDERS TAKE CHAIRMAN PAI’S KEEP AMERICANS CONNECTED PLEDGE 185 Providers Have Now Agreed to Take Specific Steps to Promote Connectivity for Americans During the Coronavirus Pandemic

WASHINGTON, March 2020 - Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai has announced that 116 more broadband and telephone service providers have taken his Keep Americans Connected Pledge. Chairman Pai launched the Keep Americans Connected Pledge with 69 broadband and telephone providers across the country agreeing to take specific steps to help Americans stay connected for the next 60 days. This announcement means that 185 companies in total have now taken the Pledge. “It’s critical that Americans stay connected throughout the coronavirus pandemic so that they can remain in touch with loved ones, telework, engage in remote learning, participate in telehealth, and maintain the social distancing that is so important to combatting the spread of the virus,” said Chairman Pai. “The Keep Americans Connected Pledge is a critical step toward accomplishing that goal, and I thank each one of these additional companies that have made commitments to ensure that Americans can remain connected as a result of these exceptional circumstances.” New pledge-takers include Advanced Communications Technology, Agri-Valley Communications, Alaska Communications, Appalachian Wireless, ATMC, Ben Lomand Connect, BEVCOMM, Blackfoot Communications, Blanchard Telephone Company, Bledsoe Telephone Cooperative, Bloomingdale Communications, Blue Valley Tele-Communications, Bristol Bay Telephone Cooperative, Bruce Telephone Company, Bush-Tell, Cap Rock Telephone Cooperative, C Spire, Cellcom, Clear Lake Telephone Company, Cochrane Co-op Telephone, Coons Valley Farmers Telephone, Copper Valley Telecom, Cunningham Communications, Cunningham Telephone Company, D&P Communications, Dallas Network Services, DTC Communications, Dubois Telephone Exchange, EarthLink, , Emerald Broadband, Farmers Mutual Co-Op Phone Co, Ethoplex, Fatbeam, Garden Valley Technologies, GCI,

Golden West Telecommunications, Granite State Communications, GRM Networks, Hancock Telephone Company, Hargray Communications, Hawaiian Telcom, Hiawatha Telephone Company, Highland Telephone Cooperative, Home Telecom, Hotwire Communications, Hughes, Industry Telephone Company, InterBel Telephone Company, Interstate Telecommunications Cooperative, KPU, Lennon Telephone Company, LTC Networks, Lincoln Telephone Company, Lynxx Networks, Madison Telephone Company, Marquette-Adams Telephone Cooperative, Matanuska Telephone Association, Merit Network, Midco, Mid-Hudson Cable, Midstate Communications, Midway Telephone Company, Mosaic Telecom, Mount Horeb Telephone Company, Nelson Cable, Nemont, NfinityLink Communications, North Central Telephone Cooperative, Northeast Nebraska Telephone Company, Northern Telephone Cooperative, Northwest Communications Cooperative, Northwest Missouri Cellular, Norvado, Nsight Teleservices, Ntec, Nushagak Cooperative, Ontonagon County Telephone Company, Palmetto Rural Telephone Cooperative, Peninsula Fiber Network, Peoples Telephone Cooperative, Pigeon Telephone Company, Pine Belt Communications, Polar Communications, Portative Technologies, Rainbow Communications, Red River Communications, Richland-Grant Telephone Cooperative, RT Communications, Sandhill Telephone Cooperative, SCC Networks, Segra/Lumos Networks, Silver Star Communications, Sirentel, Sjoberg’s, Skyline Membership Cooperative, Solarus, STRATA Networks, SRT Communications, TCT, Thumb Cellular, Totelcom, TOWARDEX, Tri-County Communications Cooperative, TrioTel Communications, Twin Lakes, Viaero Wireless, Viasat, Wabash Communications CO-OP, Wander Internet, Wave Wireless, Wavelinc Communications, Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association, West Carolina Rural Telephone Cooperative, West Kentucky and Tennessee Telephone Cooperative, West River Telecom,

and WorldNet Telecommunications. Additionally, the associations TIA—The Telecommunications Industry Association and the U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation have also endorsed the Pledge. The Keep Americans Connected Pledge reads as follows: Given the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on American society, pledges for the next 60 days to: (1) not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because

of their inability to pay their bills due to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic; (2) waive any late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic; and (3) open its Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them. For more information on the FCC’s actions related to the coronavirus pandemic, including the full list of signatories, visit: https://www.fcc.gov/coronavirus.

Arkansas Suspends Statutes Concerning Motor Vehicle Registratin Transactions

UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER (EO) 2006 Pursuant to the authority under Governor Asa Hutchinson’s March 17, 2020 Executive Order 20-06, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration has identified provisions of regulatory statutes stated below that prevents, hinders, or delays DFA’s ability to render maximum assistance to the citizens of Arkansas while adhering to guidelines to prohibit the spread of disease or seeking assistance from the state to obtain benefits or services related to health, education, employment, or any service rendered by the State in response to or to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The identified statutes below are suspended for a period of thirty days from the date of EO 20-06, which is April 16, 2020. Ark. Code Ann. § 27-14-1004(a) – Penalty for Late Registration of Motor Vehicles • Ark. Code Ann. § 27-14-1004(a) imposes a late registration penalty of $3.00 for

each ten days a person fails to properly register a motor vehicle until the penalty reaches the same amount as the annual license fee of the vehicle, which may range from $17.00 to $30.00. Under EO 20-06, DFA has suspended through April 16, 2020 the penalty under Ark. Code Ann. § 27-141004(a) for the late registration of a motor vehicle or the late renewal of a registration of a motor vehicle. This notice also does not suspend any statute, rule, or law requiring payment of sales or use tax (including any assessed penalty or interest on tax owed) on a vehicle purchase or payment of any registration or other fee. New motor vehicle registrations and renewals of registrations may be completed online at https://mydmv.arkansas.gov/. Renewal of registration is also available by phone by contacting DFA at 1-800-9412580.

obituaries

Georgia Faye Webb

Mrs. Georgia Faye Webb, age 90, of Cove, AR passed away Sunday, March 22, 2020 at Dierks Health and Rehab. Mrs. Webb was born on October 14, 1929 in Provence, OK to the late George Washington Hitt and Carrie Lou George Hitt. Georgia was married to her husband J.W. Webb for many wonderful years before he passed. Georgia was of the Baptist faith and loved her heavenly father. She was a devoted homemaker and loved taking care of her children. Georgia was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend to all that knew her and will be missed by all. She is survived by: Sons, Larry Webb and wife Donna of New Hope, AR, Gerald Webb and wife Brenda of Knoxville, AR; Daughter, Darla Hunter of Athens, AR; Sisters, Illa Dean Barnes of Laurens, South Carolina and Helen Franceline Rayburn of Virginia; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews and a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband J.W. Webb, sisters; Willie Stephens and Mildred Beasley, a daughter Linda Dunn, two sons-in-law; Ricky Hunter and Mike Dunn. Graveside services will be Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Cecil Chapel Cemetery in Vandervoort, AR with Brother Scott Vaughn ofﬁciating. Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

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April 1, 2020 Stephen ‘Steve’ Tristan Rye Sr. Stephen ‘Steve’ Tristan, Rye, Sr., 78, of Austin, TX, passed away on March 21, 2020 in Austin, TX. Steve was born in Phoenix, Arizona to Weldon and Marta Rye on November 20, 1941. Steve went to high school in Hatﬁeld, AR and graduated in 1959. He went on to earn a business degree from Arkansas Tech in Russellville, AR in 1963. Upon graduation he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant and served a tour in Vietnam. Upon discharge from the Army, he worked in multiple positions for the State of Texas at the Department of Welfare/Human Services and the State Comptroller’s Ofﬁce, retiring in 1993 with 25 years of service. During his retirement he was fondly known as ‘The Sign Guy’ at Kuper Sotheby where he met so many people he loved and he truly enjoyedthe job. Outside of work, he was a Master Mason and was a Past Master of Colorado Lodge #96 in Webberville, TX, a past District Deputy Grand Master, a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason, and a Past Potentate of Ben-Hur Shrine Temple in Austin, TX. Steve is survived by his wife Pat of Austin. Children, Stephen T. Rye, Jr. and

Goldie Louise Baxter Mrs. Goldie Louise Baxter, age 88, of Octavia, OK passed away Friday, March 27, 2020 in Poteau, OK. Goldie was born May 23, 1931 in Octavia, OK to the late Alva B. Marsh and Efﬁe Ollie White Marsh. She was married to Bill Smith until his passing. Goldie was the Head cafeteria cook for both Octavia and Smithville schools for 30 years. After retiring she was re married to Cletus Baxter. Mrs. Baxter loved to garden and plant ﬂowers. She loved to cook for family and friends. She was a member of the Octavia Baptist Church. She was a loving wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend she will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by: Sons, Jimmy Smith and wife Donna of Smithville, OK, Jerry Smith and wife Naomi of Wickes, AR, Larry Smith and wife Vickie of Smithville, OK, Perry Smith and wife Dana of Smithville, OK; 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her par-

his wife Melissa of Lago Vista, Robert B. Rye, Sr., and his wife Elizabeth of Scottsdale, Terri Hanson and her husband Greg of Austin, and Tracy Alexander of Austin. Brothers Weldon Rye, Timothy Rye, Sr., Gregory Rye, Sr., Sisters, Marta Tyler, Lou Ella Arnold, Margo Whitmore and Brenda Russell. Grandchildren, Sydney, Cecily, Brooke, Bethany, RJ and Bella, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Steve was predeceased by his parents, Weldon and Marta Rye, and by his brother, Seth Rye. Steve was a man of faith, a true friend and someone people liked to be around. He was always quick to lend a hand if you needed help and as the saying goes, ‘he would give you the shirt off of his back’ and if he said he would do something, he did it. To his family he was a great husband, father, brother, uncle and grandpa. Steve could always be counted on for some saying or other that might make you scratch your head. An example, ‘If I tell you a mosquito can pull a plow, you hook it up.’ He was an outstanding individual and will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. God rest his soul and welcome him into thy kingdom where surely, he will dwell forever in the House of the Lord and his Savior, Jesus Christ. As mentioned, Steve was a Shriner and if you desire to make a memorial contribution in his honor, please do so to the Shriner Children’s Hospitals.

ents, husbands; Bill Smith and Cletus Baxter, 4 brothers and 3 sisters. Graveside services will be Saturday, March 28, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at Octavia Cemetery in Octavia, OK, with Brother Ed Rogers ofﬁciating. Funeral services were entrusted to Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

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Group Combating Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Masterpiece Ministries of Arkansas held a meeting at the Mount Ida Mayor’s Office Tuesday night at 6 PM to discuss an up coming event to promote the new treatment center they are creating in Montgomery County. At the meeting they discussed holding a rally on May 2nd at a local church which could accommodate approximately two hundred and fifty people. Brent Furr, local pastor and current President of Masterpiece Ministries of Arkansas said, “We want the whole community involved, businesses, churches and concerned citizens. If we are going to tackle drug and alcohol addiction in Western Arkansas, the whole community must get involved. We are facing our own epidemic right here in our state and people are dying, families are affected and there is no answer to this silent problem. It is imperative that we come together as a community and address this issue.” The group cited a recent report by Millennium Health that showed Arkansas ranks Number One in Methamphetamine usage and another report by the National Institute which reported that as of 2017 there are 15.5 overdose related deaths in Arkansas per 100,000. Millennium Health did an indepth report on the West South-Central United States which includes Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas and discovered that methamphetamine use increased 468% and heroin use increase 834% between 2015 and 2019. Furr said “These numbers are shocking, and we are seeing the impact right here in our own community that is why we have to do something.” Masterpiece Ministries said that from Hot Springs to Oklahoma there are no treatment facilities set up to handle the problem, in fact there are no facilities from Fort Smith to Texarkana that are in operation and do what they plan on doing. Masterpiece Ministries is a faith based long term women’s treatment center, but the plans are to build a men’s treatment center after the women’s center has been up and operating for a while. What the group wants the public to know is that they are a non-profit Christian organization, they will be entirely supported by ADDICTION CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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April 1, 2020

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, HERITAGE, & TOURISM RELEASES SAFETY TIPS FOR USING TRAILS AND OUTDOOR SPACES

(LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas State Parks remain open at this time to provide needed outdoor spaces for our guests. While we have some diminished services, the parks are open for day-use activities including hiking, running, cycling, fishing, paddling, wildlife watching, etc. It’s vital that people find ways to engage in physical activity and be out in nature during this time; the benefits to our immune systems and our mental health are significant. But it is critical that we do so in ways that will help keep everyone safe and minimize the spread of COVID-19. Before a visit to one of our parks, check the current status at each park by visiting https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/covid-19-update. It is important to remember that Arkansas State Parks are not the only outdoor spaces that remain open. Arkansas is blessed with thousands of square miles of national forests, lakes and rivers, and regional and city parks right in your own backyard. While many of these places are also experiencing diminished services, most are still open to day-use activities and are excellent places to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining safe distances from other people. Please contact these parks directly for closure information or search online for updates. During the COVID-19 event, things are changing quickly and parks across the state are working to respond to these conditions to keep our guests safe. Please respect our park staff when asked to not congregate or when they must close various facilities in the parks. Social distancing means physical distancing. People who

live in the same household need to keep 6 feet from others. Below are some recommendations on how to keep yourself, other guests and park staff, safe when spending time out-

doors during this pandemic: GO SOLO AND AVOID CROWDS: #6FeetApart #PhysicalDistancing Do not hold social gatherings at parks or anywhere.

Stay 6 feet away from people you do not live with. Share the trail and yield to others SAFETY TIPS CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Brett and Cherri Counts with Insulation Works out of Wickes donated 100 N95 masks to Healthy Connections. During this shortage, this donation is much appreciated and will go a long way toward providing our employees with the protection they need. Insulation Works' Cody Barton is pictured here with Samantha Stovall, APRN, from our Mena clinic. Submitted photo.

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April 1, 2020

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PBS to Broadcast Curriculum-based Programming As Arkansas’s only statewide broadcasting network, Arkansas PBS is proud to partner with the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) to broadcast streamlined, curriculum-based programming for the state’s pre-K through 8th grade students in response to mandatory school closures due to the new coronavirus. Why Arkansas PBS? It’s important to meet the needs of Arkansans during this crisis, especially for our children who need educational instruction regardless of the circumstances. The goal of this creative solution is to limit lost instruction time and to limit the impact on our children as much as possible. When Arkansas PBS was founded more than 50 years ago, it was always with the intent that we would be an essential educational resource for the entire state. With six transmitters and as the state’s only educational television network, we’re thrilled to fulfill a critical need and serve Arkansas students, teachers and families during an unprecedented time. How will this work? Utilizing the power of television, Arkansas PBS will broadcast curriculum-based programming from ADE that’s specifically targeted to children enrolled in pre-K through 8th grade. This content will align with current state and federal standards so that programming is flexible enough to serve as both supplemental and fundamental, based on timing and need. All lesson plans are being developed by ADE. Beginning Monday, March 30, we will modify regularly scheduled Arkansas PBS programming for three weeks to offer specific pre-K-8 resources between the hours of 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Program modifications will go on throughout the duration of school closures, and they’ll address a wide variety of content areas. Educators and parents will be able to access the lesson plans and curriculum materials tailored to the PBS content to facilitate meaningful use of the content and learning. These AMI packets will be sent to school districts digitally so that schools can personalize the lesson plans before distributing them to their students. PBS CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Cossatot River High School 8th Grade Division team of Alison Thurston, Annabell Dixon and Madison Linker took first place during the UA Cossatot Battle of the Books competition on March 13th. The team sponsor is Helen Buxton. Pictured from left to right: Buxton, Thurston, Dixon, and Linker.

Cossatot River High School 7th Grade Division team took second place during the UA Cossatot Battle of the Books competition on March 13th. pictured from left to right: Janetta Long, Aylin Ortega, Jesse Dosch and Sponsor Helen Buxton.

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PBS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 Additional Resources An Arkansas PBS LearningMedia resource page has also been developed to aid teachers and parents in their kids’ athome learning and is available through ArkansasIDEAS, ideas.myarkansaspbs.org. AMI instructional packets, which include lesson plans and other resources, will be available. This page will allow teachers to search for the age range that most accurately applies to their students – ages 3-5, ages 6-11 and ages 12+ – to be connected with resources for online instruction, professional development and training, additional materials, and resources students can access from home. Parents can search the same age groups to find activities for children based on subject area. These resources include educational videos, activities and games. Arkansas PBS will also share daily resources on Facebook, and parents can sign up at myarkansaspbs.org/engage to receive daily learning resources emails. More information about the modified broadcast schedule, available online resources and virtual professional development opportunities is available at myarkansaspbs.org. Watching With Us Arkansas PBS is available statewide over the air or through select cable and satellite providers. To see what channel serves your region of the state, view our transmitter map at myarkansaspbs.org/ onair/transmitters. More information about how to watch with cable and satellite providers can be found at myarkansaspbs. org/channelinformation. Instructional content will also be accessible on the Arkansas PBS Facebook page and the Arkansas PBS YouTube page. Additional ways to watch are available at myarkansaspbs.org/ online.

April 1, 2020

Cossatot River High School 7th Grade Division team took second place during the UA Cossatot Battle of the Books competition on March 13th. Pictured from left to right: sponsor Helen Buxton, Landon Case, Bradley Wade, Mattie Jo Ross, Bradley Harwood and 7th grade sponsor Suzanne Kesterson.

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479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344

Could Your Home Pass An EnergyIf you’re Efficiency Inspection? worried your home might fail, RIch Mountain Electric Cooperative can help you find the answers to all your energy questions. 1-877-828-4074 For money-saving tips, contact us at After all, it’s our nature to be cooperative.

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April 1, 2020

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Senator Tom Cotton Releases China Virus Relief Information for Arkansans On March 27th, President Trump signed the CARES Act, legislation that will provide the emergency funds necessary to steer our economy through the outbreak of the China Virus and help Americans meet their financial needs. Part of that legislation provides a check in the form of a tax rebate to the vast majority of Americans. Information about those tax rebates is outlined below and can be found by clicking here. That legislation also provides loans to struggling

businesses, non-profits, and other entities through the Small Business Administration. Those loans are also eligible for forgiveness when used for the certain purposes, including payroll, rent, mortgage interest, and utilities. Senator Cotton encourages all Arkansans with questions about how the CARES act can benefit them to contact his office at (202) 224-2353 or (501) 223-9081 or by emailing through the form on his website.

LOVE ABUSED IS LOVE REFUSED Augustine said, ‘grace abused is grace refused.’ So is love. The Word of God has never changed and it will not change. John 3:16 is still true. God does love us! Jesus’ death was agony beyond words, and it was that in those minutes, that He took the judgement of our sin upon Himself. But as a people we have ignored much of what He has said to us through His Word. But it is written that, ‘Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord...’ (Phil. 2:11). The most reliable information available to us come from His Book! Every prophecy WILL come true. Every man has the right and responsibility to establish the rules of his own house; God has established the rules for this part of His house…good rules always reflect car and concern, love. America has been under the protective hand of God since its beginning. And for many years the Judeo-Christian ethic directed and influenced much of our national thought…no more. And it will get worse unless we finally recognize that our national behavior has angered Jehovah. If you do not know that a loving God can be an angry God, study Genesis 6:5-7, and II Peter 3:10. Very few things still resemble God’s design. We were created’ in His image, in His likeness.’ He designed us, and He designed a life for us. As a people we pay little attention to the Design. He designed the Church; and it is moving farther and farther away from the Design. He designed marriage, and we apparently pay little attention to His Design. Many do not even know there is a design. National prayer day? There will be no national prayer until there is confession repentance from our national sins. Words by themselves do not make prayer! Sins? Yes. Sin is still an ultimate reality. Abortion is not just socially and morally wrong; it is a sin against God. Homosexuality is not a ‘lifestyle choice;’ it is a sin against God. Adultery is not simply that ‘everyone is doing it’ so it must be OK. NO! It is a sin against God, and destructive to us. Believe it or not, at some point He will do whatever is necessary to get out attention! He may be doing it now. See Revelation 9:20 and 16:9. Thank God for those who are still seeking Him and His way, the God for them! Pray for them! God created us, He loves us and He designed a life for us, a life that, when observed, gives us freedom and meaning and purpose that we do not now have, a life that brings fulfillment as we live it out. How do we discover that life? Through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a serious study of His Word, and no place else. Casual reading will not do! Casual Christianity will not do! Study! ‘to show ourselves approved unto God’ (II Timothy 2:15). The Bible tells us ‘Be not deceived, God is not mocked, for whatsoever a man sows that he shall also reap’ (Galatians 6:7). The Old Gospel is still the Truth! God said, ‘If My people will humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from Heaven, will forgive their sin, and HEAL THEIR LAND.’ The world is in rebellion against its Creator and so is our own culture. We must open our eyes and see where we are in relationship with Him. We must seek the God Who is objectively real, not the ‘God’ we have made up in our own minds. The wage of sin is (still) death, but the Gift of God is (still) eternal life through Christ Jesus’ (Romans 6:23). Pray that it is not too late to get it right. My name is Gene Stacks, and I approve of this message.

Recovery Checks For Americans On March 27th, President Trump signed the CARES Act, legislation that will provide the emergency funds necessary to steer our economy through the outbreak of the China Virus and help Americans meet their financial needs. Part of that legislation provides a check in the form of a tax rebate to the vast majority of Americans. Information about those tax rebates is outlined in this document. Eligibility: All U.S. residents are eligible as long as they have a work-eligible Social Security number and meet the income requirements. People whose income is entirely from nontaxable, means-tested programs — such as Supplemental Security Income benefits — are eligible too. If a person is a dependent on someone else’s tax return — such as a young adult — they are not eligible for payments. For Individual Filers: Americans who file their taxes as individuals will receive up to $1,200 in assistance. If your income was less than $75,000 in 2019, you will receive the full amount of $1,200. For those making above $75,000, reduced checks on a sliding scale will be paid. For every $100 you make over $75,000, your assistance will be reduced by $5. For Married Couples Filing Jointly: Americans who file taxes jointly will receive up to $2,400 plus $500 for every dependent under the age of 17. If your joint income was less than $150,000 in 2019, you will receive the full amount of $2,400 plus $500 for every dependent under 17. For couples making above $150,000, reduced checks on a sliding scale will be paid. For every $100 you make over $150,000, your assistance will be reduced by $5. For Heads of Household: Americans who file taxes as heads of household will receive up to $1,200 plus $500 for every dependent under the age of 17. If your income was less than $112,500 in 2019, you will receive the full amount of $1,200 plus $500 for every dependent under 17. For those making above $112,500, Reduced checks on a sliding scale will be paid. For every $100 you make over $112,500, your assistance will be reduced by $5. SBA Paycheck Protection Loan Program Overview Background: On March 27th, President Trump signed the CARES Act, legislation that will provide emergency funding to steer our economy through the outbreak of the China Virus and help Americans meet

their financial needs. Part of that legislation provides loans to struggling businesses, non-profits, and other entities through the Small Business Administration. Those loans are also eligible for forgiveness when used for the certain purposes, including payroll, rent, mortgage interest, and utilities. Interested Borrowers/Lenders: If you are a potential borrower interested in participating in the Paycheck Protection Program, you should contact your financial institution and ask if they are a Small Business Administration 7(a) approved lender or if they intend to participate in the Paycheck Protection Program. If so, they can likely help steer you through this process. If you would like to find an approved SBA lender or if you are a financial institution interested in participating in the program, you can contact the Small Business Administration Arkansas District Office at (501) 324-7379. Borrower Eligibility: • The bill defines eligibility for loans as a small business, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, a 501(c)(19) veteran’s organization, or Tribal business concern described in section 31(b)(2)(C) of the Small Business Act with not more than 500 employees, or the applicable size standard for the industry as provided by SBA, if higher. • Applies current SBA affiliation rules to eligible nonprofits. • Includes sole-proprietors, independent contractors, and other self-employed individuals as eligible for loans. • For certain businesses classified under the North American Industry Classification System as “accommodation or food service,” those businesses may be eligible if they do not have more than 500 employees per physical location • Waives affiliation rules for businesses in the hospitality and restaurant industries, franchises that are approved on the SBA’s Franchise Directory, and small businesses that receive financing through the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program. Lender Eligibility: • Provides delegated authority, which is the ability for lenders to make determinations on borrower eligibility and creditworthiness without going through all of SBA’s channels, to all current 7(a) lenders who make these loans to small businesses, CARES ACT CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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April 1, 2020

Spring time in Janssen Park...

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April 1, 2020

04.01.20

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 03.25.20

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

A beautiful litter of large puppies is now available. Bogie and Buffy are the brothers and Barbie is their sister. You just can't go wrong with any of these wonderful dogs. Great age to start training them too! They were born in August (08/08/19). They are all good with other dogs. Because of their size already we recommend that children in your household be over 12 years of age. You can keep those teenagers busy training one of them! Pick out your favorite at HSO! ALL ANIMALS AT HSO ARE SPAYED/NEUTERED AND ARE CURRENT ON THEIR VACCINATIONS PRIOR TO ADOPTION.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

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April 1, 2020

CANCELLATIONS AND CLOSINGS

the public until further notice. You can drop your payment into the drop box, mail it or pay it at the Union Bank of Mena. For more information call 479-394-1025.

The Cove branch of the Polk County Library is closed. They will reopen April 20th unless conditions dictate otherwise.

Freedom Water office is closed until further notice. You may drop your payment in the drop box at the office, mail it or pay at First Financial Bank. If you need to know your balance or have any questions you may call the office 479-394-7500 during business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

To protect public health and safety and align with federal, state and local guidance, Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests officials has announced the temporary shutdown of recreational areas and campgrounds for the safety of visitors and staff. Effective immediately, some recreation areas and campgrounds are temporarily shut down. Dispersed camping is still available on both forests. On the Ouachita National Forest, all restrooms are shut down. For a list of closures, more information and updates, visit websites of the Ouachita National Forest at www.fs.usda.gov/ ouachita or the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests at www.fs.usda.gov/osfnf/. Updates can also be found at the Ouachita National Forest Facebook site at www.facebook.com/ouachitanf and OzarkSt. Francis National Forest at www.facebook.com/ozarkstfrancis/. Visitors will receive a full refund for their reservation. By closing campsites and group recreation sites, the USDA Forest Service is taking necessary measures to safeguard the health of employees and the public. The health and safety of employees and the nearby communities is always our top priority at the USDA Forest Service. Visitors are primarily responsible for their own safety. Keep in mind, trails and roads may be open for use, but please recreate responsibly and follow public health guidelines regarding social distancing while you recreate in National Forests. Law enforcement and search and rescue operations may be limited due to COVID-19 issues. High risk activities such as rock climbing or motorized activities that increase your chance of injury or distress should be avoided. For the most current and accurate information about COVID-19, contact your local health officials or visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov. Information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture is available at: www.usda.gov/ coronavirus. Mena Elks Lodge 781 Governor Hutchinson has mandated closure for 30 days effective March 20, 2020. The Second Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast at the Ross Tunnell American Legion Post in Wickes has been cancelled.

All schools in Arkansas closed until April 17th due to coronavirus.

Art Day at the Mena Art Gallery is closed until further notice. Hatfield Town Hall is closing the Lobby. All payments can be put in the Dropbox or pay at Hatfield Union Bank. Attach your Bill that is mailed out to you with your payment. The office personnel can be reached at 870-389-6611. Also during the Covid-19 social distancing time No Reservations can be taken for Use of the building. Thank you Mayor Linda Denton and Council. Even though Polk County Housing Authority has closed the lobby due to COVID-19, we are still accepting applications for public housing and Section 8. You may request an application by calling the office at 479-394-1569 or go to our website polkarhousing.com and print an application. Completed applications with required documentation should be mailed to Polk County Housing Authority at 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR 71953. Rent payments can be made at any Union Bank location or mailed to the housing office. Our staff is working to provide your housing needs and can be reached at 479-3941569 with questions or concerns. The Mena ARVAC office is closing to the public as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mandy Dunlap, the Polk County Family Support advocate siad today that "I just wanted to update our community partners regarding our office closing to the public, keeping in line with what the Governor has mandated for public schools; our Polk County ARVAC, Inc. office will be closed to the public until Monday April 20th. We are still able to help individuals with utility assistance. At present we will still be distributing Commodities to the general public Tuesday April 28, 10:00 am to 1:00pm at the Polk County Fairgrounds. The health and safety of the community is always our focus, therefore, for this distribution no one will have to leave their vehicle. If possible please post this updated sign where it may be visible to the public". Acorn Rural Water office is closed to

All activities at Arkansas State Parks at Queen Wilhimena State Park and Cossatot River State Park cancelled until May 13th. Hatfield Lions Club is cancelling their Easter Egg Hunt. In keeping with state and national guidelines regarding COVID 19, Board Camp Annual Pancake Breakfast has been postponed until further notice. All OLT shows and activities cancelled or postponed due to Covid-19 Pandemic. The OLT office will also be closed until further notice. All scheduled shows will ultimately be performed at dates compatible with the current health emergency. American Legion Bingo Saturday and Monday Cancelled TFN. FROM THE EXTENSION SERVICE OFFICE: We are having to suspend all 4-H, EHC, Master Gardener, & educational activities for the time being due to COVID-19. The Mena Federal Credit Union is temporarily closing their office. First Christian Church of Mena has canceled their worship services until further notice. Trinity Lutheran Church in mena is closed until April 19th. They do havea recorded video service on their website: https://trinitylutheranmena.weebly.com The Warriors for Christ youth service At the Southside Church of God has been cancelled for this week. The Mena 1st United Methodist Church has suspended all church activities like mens breakfast, youth group, kids club and Sunday services until further notice as per the CDC. All services at Hatfield Methodist Church cancelled TFN.

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Christ Community Fellowship has cancelled weekly Wednesday and Sunday Services from March 18th through March 29th. Sunday Services will be "Live Stream" via CCF Facebook each Sunday morning around 10:45am. Will resume normal schedule as soon as possible. Dallas Avenue Baptist Church will be live streaming Sunday service at 10:30am. All services cancelled on campus. Bible Believers Baptist Church has cancelled services Sunday. Christ's Church at Mt. Fork has cancelled services until April 5th. Grace Bible Church has cancelled services until further notice. There will be a video posted on social media later in the week and at least weekly afterwards. To contact the church dial (479) 394-4092. First Baptist Church of Mena will not have Sunday worship service. sermon will be streamed on FBC Facebook page only and on KAWX there will be a sermon broadcast. All events at FBC are cancelled through the coming week. We will not have Sunday School, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, nursery, or evening activities. We will also not be running vans until further notice. First Presbyterian church services are being filmed and put online. No in person service until further notice. The St. Ages Church will host a drivethrough food distictuion on Thursday, April 2 from 11 am to 1 pm in th curch parking lot at 203 *th Street in Mena. The DAV and Auxiliary meetings scheculed for April 2nd have been canceled. The Union Bank lobby. First Financial Bank lobby and other banks lobbies in the area are closed until further notice. Announce - Congregate meals at Cossatot Senior Center will be closed till further notice. Will do drive up/pick up from 10am11am. also will continue home delivered meals as normal. contact 479-234-3503 to be included or for more details. The Mena Polk County Senior Center will NOT be open for daily activities thru CANCELLATIONS CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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April 1, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

Ouachita National Forest Campgrounds, Recreation Areas Shutting Down

Need your land cleared? Let me mulch it for you! RC Customz Land Clearing, Mulching & More. Some services (but not all) include: Fence lines, cleaning of lots, bush-hogging & fencing. This is a great solution for clearing overgrowth while leaving desirable trees. We service both residential & commercial customers. Military discount available. For more info & estimates contact Russell Lane at (479) 216-2976 T040120 ARKANSAS TREE CARE for all of your tree removal, tree trimming, and brush clean up needs. Experienced and FULLY insured. Free estimates. Call (479)216-4328 T04082020 Complete Yard Care, mowing, weed eating, hedge trimming, and more. When you need an extra hand. Free estimates. Mena and Polk County (479)234-0509. T07292020 Tree removal and trimming. Experienced and fully insured. For ALL your tree needs. Call Wendellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tree Service (479)394-0227 or (479)216-4328 T04152020 (NEW) Mena Shuttle. Ground transportation to AR and Texas airports, doctor and emergency appointments. Also, lite deliveries (870)490-11941 T04152020

- GARAGE SALES HUGE GARAGE SALE, first time ever! Lots of large ladies clothes, collectables, antiques, and furniture. Remington shotgun, semi-automatic 12 gauge, boats and motors, fishing rods, reels, and gear. Starting April 2nd-4th 8am-6pm. Please no early birds. 909 Lake Side Dr (Cox Lake) Mena, AR T04012020

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Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System March 20 - March 27, 2020

Megan & Timothy Fair of Talihina, Oklahoma are the proud parents of a baby boy born March 22nd Randi Lawson of Waldron, Arkansas is the proud parent of a baby boy born March 22nd Elsinai & Edgar Zamora of DeQueen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born March 23rd

To protect public health and safety and align with federal, state and local guidance, Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests officials are announcing the temporary shutdown of recreational areas and campgrounds for the safety of visitors and staff. Effective immediately, some recreation areas and campgrounds are temporarily shut down. Some campgrounds and cabins have not yet open for season, and will remain shut down. Dispersed camping is still available on both forests. On the Ouachita National Forest, all restrooms are shut down. For a list of closures, more information and updates, visit the websites of the Ouachita National Forest at www.fs.usda. gov/ouachita or the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests at www.fs.usda.gov/osfnf/. Updates can also be found at the Ouachita National Forest Facebook site at www. facebook.com/ouachitanf and Ozark-St. Francis National Forest at www.facebook. com/ozarkstfrancis/. The Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and evaluate potential impacts and adjustments to reservations and our reservation policies through Rec-

March 31. We will still be serving the current home delivered meal participants as usual. We are going to stay operational with meals as long as possible. The building will be closed for activities and in house dining. If you are currently a participant and would still like a meal, you may call the senior center between 9 and 11:00 to place an order to be picked up. The Grab & Go meals are still suggested donation price of $3.00 each. Any extra monetary donations are greatly appreciated!! The number to call is 479-394-5459 to order a meal. No meals after 12 noon. Stay tuned to this facebook page and also local radio stations for further announcements. Prescribed Fire activity temporarily suspended by USDA Forest Service in southern states. This includes the Ouachita Na-

reation.gov. Reservation holders will be notified via email and/or cell phone text messages of any changes affecting their reservation. Visitors will receive a full refund for their reservation. By closing campsites and group recreation sites, the USDA Forest Service is taking necessary measures to safeguard the health of employees and the public. The health and safety of employees and the nearby communities is always our top priority at the USDA Forest Service. Visitors are primarily responsible for their own safety. Keep in mind, trails and roads may be open for use, but please recreate responsibly and follow public health guidelines regarding social distancing while you recreate in National Forests. Law enforcement and search and rescue operations may be limited due to COVID-19 issues. High risk activities such as rock climbing or motorized activities that increase your chance of injury or distress should be avoided. For the most current and accurate information about COVID-19, contact your local health officials or visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov. Information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture is available at: www.usda.gov/coronavirus. CANCELLATIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 tional Ozark-St Francis National Forests. Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative office lobbies are closed to protect health of members and employees. We will operate business as usual through the drive through. Members may report outages by call toll-free 1-877-828-4074 or call the Mena office at 479-394-4140. Payments can be made at the Drive Thru, Night Deposit or website www.rmec.com of by phone at 1-844-849-1513. Fresh Start Pregnancy Resource Center classes are canceled for the week, but they will still meet essential needs by appointment. Due to concerns with Covid-19, Holly Grove Missionary Baptist Church has postponed their Annual Homecoming Services on Easter Sunday.

WHEN NEWS MATTERS, WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE HERE TO KEEP YOU INFORMED. MyP U L S E NEWS.COM

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provides that same authority to lenders who join the program and make these loans. • The SBA Administrator and the Treasury Secretary can authorize additional lenders they deem to have the necessary qualifications to process, close, disburse, and service these loans. These additional lenders approved by Treasury are only permitted to make Paycheck Protection Program loans, not regular 7(a) loans. Loan Details: • The program will be organized through the Small Business Administration. • Under this program, the government will guarantee 100% of loans made through the Paycheck Protection program through December 31, 2020. • $349 billion is available for this program through December 31, 2020. • The covered loan period of this program is from February 15, 2020 to June 30, 2020. • The maximum loan limit is $10,000,000. • Size of loans will be determined by payroll costs incurred by business. • Allowable uses of the loan include payroll support, mortgage interest, rent, and utility payments. Payroll support includes employee salaries, paid sick or medical leave, and insurance premiums. • For eligibility purposes, requires lenders to, instead of determining repayment

April 1, 2020 ability, which is not possible during this crisis, to determine whether a business was operational on February 15, 2020, and had employees for whom it paid salaries and payroll taxes, or a paid independent contractor. • Provides a limitation on a borrower from receiving this assistance and an economic injury disaster loan through SBA for the same purpose. However, it allows a borrower who has an EIDL loan unrelated to the pubic health emergency to apply for a PPP loan, with an option to refinance that loan into the PPP loan. The emergency EIDL grant award of up to $10,000 would be subtracted from the amount forgiven under the Paycheck Protection Program. • Ensures borrowers are not charged any prepayment fees. • Requires the Administrator to provide a lender with a process fee for servicing the loan. Sets lender compensation fees at five percent for loans of not more than $350,000; three percent for loans of more than $350,000 and less than $2,000,000; and one percent for loans of not less than $2,000,000. Loan Forgiveness: • Establishes that the borrower shall be eligible for loan forgiveness equal to the amount spent by the borrower during an 8-week period after the origination date of SAFETY TIPS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

to maintain a safe distance. Choose less frequented parks and trails. Do not park in a crowded parking lot or use a crowded trail. During this crisis, some parks and trails are open for safe activities solo or with people living in the same household. Examples of safe activities to do solo or with people living in the same household: Hike/walk Bike Birding and wildlife watch Fish Kayak/canoe Frisbee/catch/kicking a ball Sit under a tree, read, write, listen to music, draw STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY: #KeepParksSafe Do not visit parks that are closed. Do not use water fountains or playgrounds. If the parking lot is full, pick a different park. Do not park on the side of the road near the entrance; in most places this is illegal and you may be ticketed or towed.

Many restrooms and facilities are closed; plan ahead before leaving home. Don’t stay long – give others the opportunity to have a safe experience. Stay at home if you or others in your household are sick. Keep your dog on a leash. Treat your dog as a family member by keeping them distanced from others and other dogs. Clean up after your pet. Leave no trace: pack out what you pack in because garbage collection is limited. ADPHT has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage, and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

the loan on payroll costs, interest payment on any mortgage incurred prior to February 15, 2020, payment of rent on any lease in force prior to February 15, 2020, and payment on any utility for which service began before February 15, 2020. • Amounts forgiven may not exceed the principal amount of the loan. Eligible payroll costs do not include compensation above $100,000 in wages. Forgiveness on a covered loan is equal to the sum of the following payroll costs incurred during the covered 8 week period compared to the previous year or time period, proportionate to maintaining employees and wages: • Payroll costs plus any payment of interest on any covered mortgage obligation (which shall not include any prepayment of or payment of principal on a covered mortgage obligation) plus payments on any covered rent obligation + covered utility payments. • The amount forgiven will be reduced proportionally by any reduction in employees retained compared to the prior year and reduced by the reduction in pay of any employee beyond 25 percent of their prior year compensation. To encourage employ-

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CARES ACT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 ers to rehire any employees who have already been laid off due to the public health emergency, borrowers that re-hire workers previously laid off will not be penalized for having a reduced payroll at the beginning of the period. • Allows forgiveness for additional wages paid to tipped workers. • Borrowers will verify through documentation to lenders their payments during the period. Lenders that receive the required documentation will not be subject to an enforcement action or penalties by the Administrator relating to loan forgiveness for eligible uses. • Upon a lender’s report of an expected loan forgiveness amount for a loan or pool of loans, the SBA will purchase such amount of the loan from the lender. • Canceled indebtedness resulting from this section will not be counted as taxable income. • Any loan amounts not forgiven at the end of one year is carried forward as an ongoing loan with terms of a max of 10 years, at max 4% interest. The 100% loan guarantee remains intact. ADDICTION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

the community and will accept no government funds. Tuesday night the group voted to hold the banquet rally on Saturday May 2nd at the Ouachita Baptist Church on Highway 270 East, Mount Ida. The purpose of the event is to raise funds for the new facility and to educate the public that there is an answer to the drug epidemic. At the rally, Dr. Larry Pillow, founder of We Can Ministries will be there along with numerous women who have recovered from alcohol and drug addiction. Dr. Pillow founded We Can Ministries, a faith-based recovery program about ten years ago and has opened a dozen centers for both men and women since then. Masterpiece Ministries is partnering with Dr. Pillow to get their facilities started here in Western Arkansas. Brent Furr said, “There is hardly a family in Montgomery or Polk County that has not been adversely affected by either drug or alcohol addiction. It is hurting our businesses, our schools, churches and families but it is our children that are hurt the most. We are going to lose the next generation if

we don’t do something now. One thing for sure if our community doesn’t take action, it will only get worse. That is why we are doing this; we simply can not go on looking the other way or hoping someone else will do it. We have to and that means all of us.” Tickets are selling for $25 and sponsorship from businesses, individuals and churches are welcomed. For more information about the event or how to get involved contact Monica Bridges at 870-4900630, or Brent Furr at 870-681-1945, or write to Masterpiece Ministries PO BOX 1546, Mount Ida, Arkansas. More information is available on their website which is Masterpieceministriesar.org. The group also wanted the public to know that they can help men or women now who are seeking recovery and if someone is in need they should call and Masterpiece Ministries will help them find a facility for them to recover. Contact for press release: Al Martin 479216-8302

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April 1, 2020

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