April 8, 2020 by The Pulse

April 8, 2020

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Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com Governor Hutchinson Directs State Parks To Implement New Measures for Public Health Governor Asa Hutchinson has approved temporary changes to Arkansas State Parks’ operations to protect public health during the COVID-19 crisis, he announced at a news conference. The Governor has directed that Arkansas State Parks implement “day use” operations only, effective 8 a.m. on Friday, April 3, a decision he made in consultation with Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Stacy Hurst. “Arkansas State Parks will remain operational,” Governor Hutchinson said. “Arkansas is known for our outdoor recreation, and we want to allow Arkansans to safely enjoy what our state has to offer. These new safety measures will reduce the risk of overcrowding at our parks and discourage visitors from out-of-state until the threat of COVID-19 has passed.” “This Friday, we will move to ‘day use’ only across our state parks system, eliminating all overnight stay opportunities,” Secretary Hurst said. “This is consistent with 28 other states, and we believe it will further reduce the number of out-of-state visitors. We are staying on top of the data and best practices and will adjust if further limitations are needed.” Under the new “day use” directive, Arkansas State Parks will close overnight facilities, such as cabins and campgrounds. In addition, Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism is temporarily implementing safety measures to prevent visitation surges in state parks. Arkansas State Parks will deploy park rangers to enforce social distancing, disperse gatherings of more than 10 people, and implement parking restrictions to limit overcrowding at popular parks. Secretary Hurst will closely monitor problematic areas such as trails that are overcrowded or too narrow for proper social distancing and close such areas as needed. Information on the park closings can be found at https://www.ArkansasStateParks. com/covid-19-update.

Mena Regional Auxiliary, Inc. Awards Scholarships...

The Mena Regional Auxiliary, Inc. recently awarded $1,000 scholarships to three recipients who are currently enrolled in a medical-related field. Wesley Wells (pictured third from left) is currently a Nuclear Medicine Tech at Mena Regional Health System. Wes is applying for the 2021 Physicians Assistance program at UAMS. Ashely Bedwell (pictured center front) is a CNA currently enrolled in the LPN program at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain. Members of the Mena Regional Auxiliary, Inc. pictured presenting the scholarships from left: Ewanta Turner, Sara Mitchell, Melba Head, Linda Johnson and Marilyn Davenport. Submitted photo.

MRHS Updates Visitation Hours and COVID-19 Testing Information Mena Regional Health System continues to provide inpatient and outpatient services for our community. Extreme infection control precautions have been implemented in order to safeguard anyone entering our facilities for care. The following visitor restriction policy is now in effect until further notice. Visitation is restricted to 8:00 am - 7:00 pm using the main entrance only. Visitation

is restricted to one (1) single visitor per day per patient choice, non-transferable. Visitors must stay in the room and not make multiple trips to decrease traffic through the hospital. If you leave the patient care unit, you will not be allowed to reenter. Visitors under 15 years of age will not be permitted in the facility. Exceptions to the number of visitor restriction are as follows:

Labor/Delivery patients will be allowed a visitor and labor coach during the Labor/ Delivery process. The Postpartum Unit will allow only one (1) visitor. Senior Behavioral Health and Isolation areas will not be allowed any visitors at any time. MRHS CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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April 8, 2020

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The 2020 Fiscal Session is scheduled to begin April 8 at noon. The COVID-19 crisis will have an impact on the proposed budget as well as our meeting Representative John Maddox schedules. The Department of Finance and Administration released a revised revenue forecast on April 2. The forecast now reﬂects $5.6 billion in net available revenue for FY 2021. This indicates a decrease of $205.9 million from the prior forecast released in January. The schedule for meetings will be posted on our website. For precautionary measures due to COVID-19, the General Assembly is not expected to meet as long as in previous Fiscal Sessions.

Polk County Pulse By law, Fiscal Sessions cannot extend longer than 30 days without a ¾ vote from both chambers. The longest it can be extended is an additional 15 days. During Fiscal Sessions, the legislature can only address the budget and appropriation bills. In order for non-appropriation legislation to be introduced, a resolution substantially describing the bill must ﬁrst be approved by a 2/3 vote in both chambers. The House will convene at the Jack T. Stephens Center at the University of Arkansas Little Rock. We convened at this venue for the recent special session as it provides enough space for the recommended social distancing guidelines. Arkansas PBS will stream the House meetings. You can ﬁnd the links for those live-streams as well as the Senate meetings and Joint Budget Committee meetings on our website www.arkansashouse. org. As we prepare to address the state budget in this unprecedented time, we will continue to update and help constituents with needed assistance through this crisis.

editor

LETTER TO THE Letter to the editor, In 1973 I was living in Houston Texas. Johnny Carson made a joke on TV about how there was a shortage of Toilet Paper. That started the worst rash of toilet paper hording all over the country. Living in Houston, I did not expect anythings less because believe me when I say that Houston, Texas was NOT a shining example of brotherly love. Johnny had to come on TV and tell everyone it was a joke and to stop hoarding. It took months to get back to normal. Then I moved to Mena, AR in 2001, I witnessed ﬁrst hand what it meant to love your neighbor. Whenever someone's house burned, people from all over town brought clothes, food, offered help...it was actually shocking to me to see such

caring and compassion. I felt like I'd "come home". Then the COVID 19 virus came to Arkansas, and suddenly, all the Toilet Paper is gone from the shelves..and has been now for like 3 weeks or more. People...we are better than this. Hoarding is such a selﬁsh, hateful way to treat your neighbors. Again, PEOPLE...WE ARE BETTER THAN THIS..I HAVE SEEN YOUR COMPASSION AND LOVE FIRST HAND. DON'T LET THE FEAR OF THIS VIRUS TURN YOU INTO A HOARDING CURMUDGEON! NOT hoarding is a small way you can help others without endangering your self..remember who we are! Please! Cindi Hernandez

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The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must be less than 300 words and must not contain obscene or libelous language. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after hour convenience. TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS Email NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM or Contact One of Our MARKETING SPECIALIST

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April 8, 2020

Reflections from History and Faith Remembering Okinawa

By Jeff Olson With 2020 marking the 75th anniversary of the final year of World War II, we will continue to commemorate some of the more consequential events of the war. Several weeks ago, we remembered Iwo Jima. This week we will remember the last major battle of World War II, and one of the bloodiest. Okinawa, only 340 miles from the Japanese mainland, was the site of the final battle in the island-hopping campaign that brought the Allies closer to Japan. Knowing an invasion of Japan was America’s next move, the Japanese high command wanted to delay it for as long as possible for time to prepare. The Americans knew securing Okinawa’s airbases was critical to launching a successful invasion of Japan. Plans for such (code name “Operation Downfall”) had been in development since early1945. The invasion of Okinawa was part of Operation Iceberg, a complex plan to occupy the Ryukyu Islands. It was the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The U.S. Navy's fifth Fleet and Four divisions of the U.S. 10th Army and two Marine divisions (more than 180,000 men) fought in the battle, supported by amphibious and tactical air forces. The operation began on Easter Sunday, April 1, 1945 when a contingent of U.S. ground troops landed at Hagushi on the west coast of central Okinawa. At day's end, some 50,000 men had gone ashore and established a beach head about 5 miles long. The American troops anticipated conditions similar to those at Normandy - enemy fire immediately after landing. However,

wave after wave of troops, tanks, ammunition and supplies went ashore within hours and with little resistance. And, unlike Iwo Jima which was uninhabited by native peoples, Okinawa had a large indigenous civilian population which added an unknown number of conscripted civilians and unarmed Home Guards to Japan's 76,000 army. The Japanese strategy was to watch and wait for the Allied troops, mostly in rugged areas of southern Okinawa where Japanese defense positions could be best fortified and where American troops would be most vulnerable. As troops of the 10th Army moved south toward the main population centres of Naha and Shuri, they encountered strong resistance, fighting many battles and at times with heavy rains making the hills and roads watery graveyards of unburied bodies. The battle for the island was referred to by the Okinawans as a "typhoon of steel" for the ferocity of the fighting. The first major Japanese counterattack came on April 6–7 in the form of suicidal raids by over 300 Kamikaze planes and the battleship Yamoto attacking the American fleet. The Japanese had hoped that Yamato might destroy the Allied fleet after it had been weakened by the wave of kamikazes, but with no air cover the largest battleship ever constructed was easily destroyed for American carrier-based planes. As American troops moved south toward the Japanese headquarters at historic Shuri Castle, they were faced with a series of well-defended hills and high ridges, one of which was the Maeda Escarpment, a 400-foot plateau better known as Hacksaw Ridge. Japanese troops defended it from a heavily fortified system of caves, tunnels,

bunkers and trenches. One American soldier who fought there was PFC Desmond Doss, a medic and conscientious objector. Refusing to seek cover and unarmed, Doss alone save the lives of 75 of his fellow solders by carrying them one by one to the edge of the escarpment and lowering them on a rope-supported litter down to awaiting medical personnel. After 10 days of often hand-to-hand combat, Americans won on May 6. Nearly 500 of the 800 men in Doss’ battalion became casualties atop Hacksaw Ridge and close to 3,000 Japanese were killed. For his selfless service, sacrifice and courage, Doss was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Besides Doss, there were 23 other Medal of Honor recipients from the Battle for Okinawa. By mid-May, U.S. forces took the city of Naha and on June 1 Shuri fell. By June 6, the Naha airfield was in Allied possession. After 82 days of fighting, major combat operations ceased on June 21. In the aftermath, Okinawa was described as a "vast field of mud, lead, decay, and maggots." The deaths from the battle totaled 240,931, including 149,193 Okinawans, 77,166 Japanese, 14,009 Americans and some from South Korea, the United Kingdom, North Korea and Taiwan. The commanding generals on both sides were killed

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history

as was beloved American war correspondent Ernie Pyle. On April 18, while in route to a forward command post on the island of lejima, he was mortally wounded by Japanese machine-gun fire. With Okinawa in possession of the Allies, there was nothing left for the Japanese to do but either finish preparing for an impending invasion or surrender. If Operation Downfall was to be implemented, the Joint Chiefs of Staff estimated American casualties at 1.2 million, with 267,000 deaths. However, the successful testing of the Atomic Bomb gave President Harry Truman another option. On July 26, an ultimatum was issued through the Potsdam Declaration demanding Japan's unconditional surrender and threatening heavier air attacks otherwise. The thirteenth and final point of the Declaration closed with the warning, “The alternative for Japan is prompt and utter destruction.” With Japan's rejection of this ultimatum, and in the interest of expediting the end of the war to save American lives, the decision was made to use the atomic bomb - on Hiroshima August 6 and subsequently on Nagasaki August 9 after Japan's second refusal to surrender. The Japanese unconditionally surrendered on August 14, 1945.

police

April 8, 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 March 30, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 93 near Shady Grove of missing firearms valued at $600.00. Investigation continues. March 31, 202 No reports were filed. April 1, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 288 near Cove of a possible break-in. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 76E of a vehicle fire causing damage in the amount of $12,000.00. Deputy responded. Arrested was Jason G. Myers, 42, of Mena on Charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, Possession of a Defaced Firearm, and Maintaining a Drug Premise. April 2, 2020 No reports were filed. April 3, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 482 near Vandervoort of unauthorized use of a vehicle. Deputy responded. Arrested was Jason W. Busby, age 46 of Mena on a Charge of Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License. April 4, 2020 Report from complainant on 71S near Cove of a road rage incident. Deputy responded. Report from complainant near Mena of finding personal belongings of an unknown individual on their property. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 147 near Potter of a structure fire. Deputy responded. April 5, 2020 Traffic stop on West Johnson near Hatfield led to the discovery of a suspicious substance. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Trailwood Lane near Shady Grove of a domestic disturbance. Deputies responded. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 10 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 29, 2020 through April 4, 2020 follow: March 29, 2020 A theft report was taken from department store. A theft by deception report was taken from a department store. Marsha Denton, 36, and Hunter Johns, 20, were arrested for Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a call to a department store. Tina Richey, 33, was arrested for Theft of Property (Shoplifting) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a call to a department store. March 30, 2020 A theft report was taken from a department store. A report of criminal mischief was taken at a funeral home. March 31, 2020 No reports taken. April 1, 2020 No reports taken. April 2, 2020 A theft report was taken at a residence. April 3, 2020 No reports taken. April 4, 2020 A report was taken at the hospital of an accidental gunshot wound that occurred at a residence. April 5, 2020 No reports taken. (All subjects should be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law)

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Arkansas Supreme Court Suspends Summonses of Jurors

By a per curiam order delivered today, April 3, 2020, the Arkansas Supreme Court has suspended summonses for jurors until June 30, 2020. All but a few categories of in-person court proceedings are suspended until May 1, 2020. In Montgomery and Polk Counties we

are using Skype to conduct criminal ﬁrst appearances and arraignments, but there will be no jury trials until July 1, 2020 at the earliest. No criminal pretrials will be held until May 1, 2020 at the earliest. If you have jury duty this term, you may not have to serve.

Cite as 2020 Ark. 132 SUPREME COURT OF ARKANSAS IN RE RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Delivered: April 3, 2020 PER CURIAM In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court of Arkansas delivered per curiam orders on March 17, 2020, and March 20, 2020, implementing emergency precautions to help protect the public from unnecessary risks. See In re Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020 Ark. 116 (per curiam); In re Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020 Ark. 125 (per curiam). Today the Supreme Court of Arkansas announces additional measures to combat the spread of the disease to the public, including the employees of the Arkansas judiciary. The courts of the State of Arkansas shall remain open. The previous suspension of all in-person proceedings in all appellate, circuit, and district courts shall be extended through Friday, May 1, 2020, and may be extended by this court as circumstances warrant. This Order allows in-person hearings for the excepted proceedings listed in the March 17 per curiam, In re Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020 Ark. 116. While hearings in individual cases of these types may be set by judges, and such hearings may be held in person, judges are encouraged to utilize all available technologies––including teleconferencing and video conferencing––to further limit in-person courtroom appearances. The administrative judge of each judicial circuit is authorized to determine the manner in which the listed in-person exceptions are to be conducted. Such proceedings shall be limited to thc attorneys, parties, witnesses, security officers, a press-pool representative, and other individuals necessary to the proceedings as determined by the presiding judge. AIl proceedings that do not require in-person appearances of parties or counsel are not suspended and may continue or be suspended at the discretion ofthe presiding judge as circumstances allow. For the duration of this Order,judges may exercise their discretion to conduct proceedings that do not require in-person appearances or in-person proceedings suspended as a result of this Order, by teleconGrencing, video conferencing, or other available technology. Any criminal or civil court rules that would impede a court clerk's or a judge's ability to utilize such technologies are hcreby suspended for the duration of this Order. Any summonses for persons to participate in jury panels are hereby suspended through Tuesday, Jrne 30,2020. For criminal cases, in light of the public-health emergency, any delay for speedy-trial purposes during this emergency shall be deemed to be extraordinary circumstances that shall presumptively constitute good cause as an excluded period for the period of delay under Arkansas Rule of Criminal Procedure 28.3(h). This Ordcr is to be interpreted broadly for protection of the public from the risks associated with COVID-I9. This Order applies statewide to all courts and court clerks' offices except administrative courts of the executive branch, federal courts, and federal court clerks' offices in Arkansas. It is so OI\I)EIIED. FOI{THE COUI{T:

5 news Sheltering at home can increase energy bills; here’s how to get help mypulsenews.com

With schools closed and many workers temporarily unemployed or telecommuting due to the coronavirus pandemic, many families have a full house during times the home would normally be empty. The result is often an increased demand for energy to fuel daily lives, and that can quickly lead to a higher-than-normal energy bill. Family members may ask how to keep bills from rising when there is an increase

April 8, 2020

in demand. Or your neighbor might want to know how to get help if he or she is struggling to pay a higher-than-normal bill. The best way to keep energy use—and bills—in check is to follow simple energy-saving tips, like wrapping your water heater; regularly replacing HVAC filters and insulating doors and windows. But if a high bill has already arrived, there are ways cus-

Wal-Mart Limiting Number of Customers at a Given Time From Wal-Mart corporate officials: Starting Saturday, we will limit the number of customers who can be in a store at once. Stores will now allow no more than five customers for each 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly 20 percent of a store’s capacity. To manage this restriction, the associates at a store will mark a queue at a single-entry door (in most cases the Grocery entrance) and direct arriving customers there, where they will be admitted one-byone and counted. Associates and signage will remind customers of the importance of social distancing while they’re waiting to enter a store – especially before it opens in the morning. Once a store reaches its capacity, customers will be admitted inside on a “1-out1-in” basis. Shopping Inside the Store We’ll also institute one-way movement through our aisles next week in a number of our stores, using floor markers and direction from associates. We expect this to help more customers avoid coming into

close contact with others as they shop. We’ll continue to put signage inside our stores to remind customers of the need to maintain social distancing – especially in lines. And once customers check out, they will be directed to exit through a different door than they entered, which should help lessen the instances of people closely passing each other. We always want people to feel welcome at Walmart, and we know that in ordinary times a store is a gathering place for members of a community to connect and socialize. We look forward to the time when that is again the case; however, we now want to prioritize health and safety by encouraging customers to do their shopping at a distance from others, then head home. As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, our leaders and operations teams will continue to listen to advice from medical experts, associates and customers, and consider how we can best serve people while helping slow the spread of the virus. The health and safety of our associates and customers is what matters the most.

tomers can get help managing their costs or even paying their bill. Working with its regulators, Entergy Arkansas has temporarily suspended service disconnections. However, Entergy encourages customers to make payments on their account if possible, and will work directly with customers to make payment arrangements if they are unable to pay in full. Customers requiring such arrangements should call 1-800-ENTERGY (800368-3749) or visit myAccount. Here are four more ways customers can manage through the higher costs of powering their homes: • Level Billing –Entergy averages your bill over a rolling 12-month period so you have a consistent bill each month of the year. Pay about the same every month, with no surprises. • Pick-A-Date –Choose what day of the month you get billed to line up with your budget and manage your cash flow. • Payment Extension–Qualifying customers who need additional time to pay their bill can call our automated answering

system at 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-3683749) or request an extension through myAccount. • Power to Care–Through Entergy’s The Power to Care program, local nonprofit agencies can provide emergency bill payment assistance to seniors and disabled individuals in crisis. Find out more at entergy-arkansas.com/bill-help/. • LIHEAP–LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is a program that provides money to help people with energy bills and other energy-related expenses. LIHEAP is funded through the federal government and works with the community action agencies to help customers pay for and keep electric service in their homes. For information on how to apply for assistance, visit liheapassistance.org If you know someone who thinks they’re going to need help with their power bill, let them know they shouldn’t delay. Have them call Entergy’s customer service representatives at 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800368-3749) to see what solution might be right for them.

Polk County Births

Has Your

Mena Regional Health System

March 27 – April 3, 2020 Sandra Vazquez Martinez & Eduardo Martinez of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born March 27th Sharai & Elijah Beaty of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born March 31st Anadreysi Gonzalez & Cecilo Trejo Lorenzo of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born March 31st

Weekend Project Become A

5 Year Lawn Ornament?

Maybe It’s Time To List It

Maria & Tim Mosley of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born March 31st Courtney & Aaron Lawrence of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born April 2nd Amber & Casey Fendley of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born April 2nd Meagan & Wesley Kimberlin of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born April 2nd Tiffany Marschall & Alban Beckwith of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born April 3rd

Polk County Pulse Classifieds

obituaries

Jerry DeWayne Staggs

Mr. Jerry DeWayne Staggs, age 60, of Mena, AR passed away at home surrounded by his loved ones, Tuesday, March 31, 2020. Jerry was born July 11, 1959 in Waldron, AR to the late Verle Dee Staggs and his mother Armel Mae Byford Staggs Davis. Jerry married his wife Tamara “Tammy” Terrell March 18, 1989. Mr. Staggs worked at Nidec for 40 years until retirement. Jerry loved to hunt and the Razorbacks. He also enjoyed NASCAR and the Dallas Cowboys football and St. Louis Cardinals baseball. He liked playing softball and was a deacon at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. Jerry was also very fond of his dog Frankie. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, uncle and friend to all that knew him and will be dearly missed by all. He is survived by; Wife, Tamara “Tammy” Staggs of Mena; Daughters, Laney Elizabeth Staggs of Mena, Katelyn Dea

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April 8, 2020 Staggs of Mena; Mother, Armel Mae Byford Staggs Davis of Mena; Sisters, Sandy Egger and husband Ron of Mena, Verla Kinsey and husband Dana of Mena; Mother-in-law, Johnye Faye Terrell of Mena; Special Great Nieces, Kylie Ezell of Mena, Brylin Clark of Mena; Sisters-in-law, Rolinda Allen and husband Ralph of Mena, Paula Cox and husband Chuck of Mena; And a host of other relatives and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his father Verle Staggs, stepfather Arnold Staggs, grandparents John and Addie Staggs, Bob and Mary Byford, and father-in-law Arnold “Pete” Terrell. Graveside services will be Thursday, April 2, 2020 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Gilead Cemetery in Rocky. Brother Carl Fair will be officiating. Services have been entrusted to Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general. In leu of flowers donations can be made to Acorn Alumni Association, contact Margo Kimp. Honorary pallbearers are: Chuck Cox, Dana Kinsey, Ralph Allen, Ron Egger, Evan Kinsey, Justin Kinsey, Johnathan Cox, Allen Ray Ezell, Clint Ezell, Danny Staggs, Terry Staggs, Bruce Staggs, Todd Aynes, and Mike Staggs.

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Social Security Scam Demands Arkansans’ Information for Continued Payments

‘The Social Security Administration will not suspend or discontinue your payments due to COVID-19’... LITTLE ROCK – Scam artists thrive on fear, and the COVID-19 pandemic has not slowed their illegal schemes. They are now using today’s financial uncertainty to trick Social Security beneficiaries into thinking their payments will be suspended unless they provide personal information to the scammer by phone, email or text. The Social Security Office of the Inspector General has confirmed, however, that beneficiaries will continue to receive scheduled payments during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Any letters, texts, emails or phone calls stating otherwise are a scam. “The Social Security Administration will not suspend or discontinue your payments due to COVID-19,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “I urge anyone who receives a scam request for your personal bank account information to hang up the phone immediately.” Scam artists have sent letters to Social Security beneficiaries by U.S. Mail and stated that benefit payments will be canceled unless he or she contacts the phone number identified in the letter. Some of these letters may even include a reference number in order to suggest that the letter is legitimate. Upon calling the phone number provided, beneficiaries are asked to give personal information or to make a payment with gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency or by mailing cash to ensure social security payments. Attorney General Rutledge has provided the following tips to protect Arkansans from con artists:

• Government benefits do not require up-front payment of money, and requests for payment by gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, cash, or debit or credit cards are scams. • Rely on information from wellknown or government sources and websites that end in .gov. Examples include the Social Security Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Arkansas Department of Health; • Beware of requests that ask for your personal information, credit card information, Social Security number or banking information; • Check the URL link for a "lock" icon before you proceed to make sure that the website is a secure site. • Look for non-personalized email greetings like “Dear Sir or Madam,” and delete emails that insist you act urgently or immediately. • Consider contacting a friend, loved one, or financial professional before providing information or agreeing to any proposal from a possible governmental entity. To report this scam to the Social Security Administration, contact its Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271, or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. The Attorney General’s Office created a page that links to state and federal government resource pages for COVID-19 at ArkansasAG.gov/COVID19. Contact the office with any concerns about scams at (800) 482-8982.

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April 8, 2020

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New Protocols for Commercial Lodgings, Short-Term Rentals LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has issued an executive order mandating new safety measures for commercial lodgings, short-term rentals, and other institutions and operations in order to protect public health during the COVID-19 crisis, he announced at a news conference today. “Every day, we review guidance from state and federal health experts and evaluate additional steps we can take to protect Arkansans from the spread of COVID-19,” Governor Hutchinson said. “I am grateful that Arkansans have taken extraordinary efforts to practice social distancing and flatten the curve. It is my hope that these new measures will provide further protection for Arkansans as we prepare for the peak number of COVID-19 cases in our state.” The Governor has directed that commercial lodgings and short-term rentals, including, hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, only permit occupancy for the following authorized guests:

• Healthcare professionals; • First responders; • Law enforcement; • State or federal employees on official business; • National Guard members on active duty; • Airline crew members; • Patients of hospitals and their families; • Journalists; • Persons unable to return to their home due to COVID-19 travel restrictions; • Arkansas citizens unable to return to their home due to exigent circumstances, such as fire, flood, tornado, or other disaster; • Persons in need of shelter due to domestic violence or homelessness; • Employees of hotels, motels, or other service providers/contractors of a hotel or motel; • and persons away from their home due to work or work-related travel.

Lake Ouachita State Park Closed Arkansas State Parks temporarily closed all facilities, including day-use areas, at Lake Ouachita State Park to the public Friday morning following a report that three people who camped there in late March tested positive for COVID-19. “The Lake Ouachita State Park is temporarily closed because it was reported to Arkansas State Parks late (Thursday) afternoon that three people who were RV camping at Lake Ouachita State Park in late March have recently tested positive for COVID-19,” said Melissa Whitfield, com-

munications director for Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Whitfield said these three campers “were in some level of contact with 12 of the park’s 23 employees.” Because of that, “we have made the difficult decision to temporarily close the park." The closure was made at 8 a.m. Friday. All of the park employees, both those who were in contact with the campers and those who weren’t, are now self-quarantining.

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SEVEN WORDS FROM THE CROSS

“Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) “This day you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43) “Woman, behold your son.” (John 19:26-27) “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34; Matthew 27:46)

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(John 19:28) “It is ﬁnished.” (John 19:30) “Into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)

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AGFC opens virtual nature center LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Game and Fish Commission nature and education centers may have had to shut their doors to the public because of the coronavirus, but that doesn’t mean our educators can’t continue introducing families to the outdoors. Thanks to collaboration between nature centers, regional educators, program coordinators and other AGFC staff, a virtual nature center is open at www.agfcnaturecenter.com to keep the conservation message alive. “Since the centers were closed to the public, our educators have shown some real creativity with how they can continue teaching people about the outdoors,” said Chris Colclasure, deputy director of the AGFC. “With over half a million students at home, this is a great time to launch an online nature center.” The virtual nature center combines some previously existing content with new material developed from years of popular education workshops at nature centers. Subjects run the gamut from how to get started crappie fishing, to searching for morel mushrooms, to recipe segments from the Emmy-nominated Arkansas Wildlife Television show. “Some people may be familiar with the older content, and some of the new content has already seen some excellent re-

sponse through Facebook,” said Spencer Griffith, marketing director for the AGFC. The nature center content will continue to evolve, showcasing topics relevant to the current season. “AGFC staff is hard at work producing new videos and programs for the virtual nature center. Make sure to check back for new content every couple of days or drop us an email at askagfc@agfc.ar.gov if you have a program request,” Griffith said. In addition to the virtual center work, many staff have been able to make improvements around the physical nature center sites, including the removal of invasive privet on nature center grounds and the continued renovation of the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Fort Smith. “Schools have had to close, organized sports are canceled or postponed, but the outdoors is always open,” Colclasure said. “Even when some cities and states have issued stay-at-home orders, getting outside for exercise and fresh air is recommended as long as people are not gathering in large groups while they’re doing it. We want to offer people ideas on what all is possible now and after this period of social distancing is over.” Visit www.agfcnaturecenter.com to explore the new online AGFC nature center.

Boozman Urges USDA to Ensure Continuity of Food Supply & Relief to Farmers

Supports Continued FSA Loan Flexibility During Pandemic... WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) signed onto a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue urging the Trump administration to ensure the continuity of our country’s food supply and support rural areas during the coronavirus pandemic by providing needed relief to farmers. “Americans always depend on our nation’s farmers to grow the food, fuel, and fiber that we all need, but that reliance becomes much more pronounced in times of crisis,” the senators wrote. “To provide additional support for those whose operations are being affected by the coronavirus, we urge you to consider making emergency measures such as deadline extensions, loan payment deferrals, payment forbearance, and a full suspension of all current and pending foreclosure actions effective for the duration of the pandemic and

subsequent economic recovery.” The bipartisan letter was led by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Hoeven (RND). In addition to Boozman, the letter was signed by Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Bob Casey (D-PA), John Thune (R-SD), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Steve Daines (R-MT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Barrasso (R-WY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Angus King (I-ME), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Bill Cassidy (RLA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Todd Young (R-IN), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Doug Jones (D-AL), Tom Carper (D-DE), Gary Peters (D-MI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jon Tester (D-MT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).

Flattening the Curve in Arkansas LITTLE ROCK – Today I want to discuss the steps we have taken together to fight the coronavirus called COVID-19. Since March 11, the day I signed the Executive Order that declared a public health emergency, our public health team has guided our response and targeted our actions to stop this virus. I’d like to review a few of the steps we have taken. We have closed schools, bars and the state’s three casinos. We have closed restaurants except for take-out meals. We have shut down barbershops, and hair and nail salons; massage-therapy clinics and tattoo parlors. We have closed fitness centers, movie theaters, bowling alleys, and indoor amusement centers. We have shuttered state park lodges and prohibited camping in the park. I directed state employees to work remotely when possible, and we suggested companies allow employees to work from home. All of these actions mean people have lost their jobs, and this is so difficult to do, and it goes against everything we are trying to accomplish. But these steps are necessary in this public health emergency. Our measures are more stringent than those in many other states. That is the reason the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arkansas is 400 fewer than our projections. If necessary, we can go farther, but the typical stay-at-home order exempts essential activities and businesses. In many states, essential activities include manufacturing, hardware stores, and legal, accounting, and insurance services. California’s executive order exempts grocery

stores, farmer’s markets, convenience stores, banks, and laundromats. Every morning in California, which has one of the strictest orders in place, millions of people leave home for work. If I initiated a stay-at-home order similar to California’s, more than 700,000 Arkansans would still get up and go to work the next morning. Thousands of others would visit hardware stores, Kroger, Walgreens, and Walmart. But there is another impact that many don’t consider. An order that shut down the state could put a couple hundred thousand people out of work. At this time, we have not issued a stayat-home order primarily because most people are making responsible choices. Arkansans are putting the good of the state ahead of personal convenience or comfort, and in many cases, people are sacrificing their financial security. Concert halls, sports arenas, and even churches have closed voluntarily. In theory, we could have ordered all of those places to close. But that wasn’t necessary. Our targeted actions are working. In Arkansas, even without the stay-at-home order, the rate of growth in the number of cases has flattened. That’s not true in some states that began sheltering-in-place early on. We’re basing our decisions on scientific data. We can’t be pressured into taking measures simply because all the other states are doing it. When we need to do more, we will. And let me assure you, we will continue to listen our public health experts.

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Governor Allocates Additional $45 Million For Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Establishes Committee to Advise on COVID-19 Spending... LITTLE ROCK – With the approval of the General Assembly, Governor Asa Hutchinson has allocated an additional $45 million to the $30 million he authorized earlier for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilators for health care professionals and first responders as they test and treat patients who have contracted COVID-19, he announced at a news conference today. The $45 million is being allocated from the new COVID-19 Rainy Day Fund, which the state legislature established in the recent extraordinary session of the 92nd General Assembly. The Governor previously authorized the

release of $30 million for the purchase of PPE that, combined with the additional $45 million, raises to $75 million the funding for the procurement of PPE. This funding will help Arkansas meet the need for PPE and ensure that Arkansas health care workers have sufficient supply of protective gear. In addition to the procurement of PPE and ventilators, there are additional funds that can be used for a social distancing media initiative. “Our health care workers are on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19,” Governor Hutchinson said. “I have no higher priority than ensuring that they have the protection they need as they test and treat

State Capitol Week in Review for the week of April 3rd From Senator Larry Teague LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas state parks will be open only during the daytime, in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus among dense gatherings of visitors at trailheads and campsites, state officials announced. Also, state officials and legislators joined in requesting that federal authorities close the Buffalo River National River, because so many out-of-state tourists were gathering there. According to a count on a single day, 60 percent of visitors to the Buffalo River were from out of state. The prevalence of outof-state visitors goes against the efforts of medical professionals trying to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. The new version that is spreading across the globe is called “coronavirus disease 2019.” The secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism said that 28 other states had closed overnight access to parks. Also, several popular trails have been closed. They are the Cedar Falls Trail and the Cedar Falls Overlook in Petit Jean State Park, the east and west Summit Trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and the Fossil Flats Mountain Bike Trail and the Woody Plants Trail at Devil’s Den State Park. Being outside is encouraged because ultraviolet rays from the sun degrade many viruses, the Secretary of Health said. However, gathering outdoors is as unsafe as gathering indoors. That’s why

beaches have been closed. Popular music festivals and sporting events have been postponed or canceled, to avoid dense groupings of people. State park rangers will have authority to disperse gatherings of people, and to issue citations for parking illegally. The Secretary of Commerce said that personnel in the Workforce Services Department had been realigned to better handle the flood of applications for unemployment insurance. The rate of applications had averaged 1,000 to 1,500 a week, but has spiked to about 30,000 in a single week. State revenue dropped dramatically due to the sudden downturn in economic activity. In late March the official revenue forecast for the current fiscal year was reduced by $353 million. The filing date for state income taxes has been postponed to July 15. Also, the Department of Finance and Administration has suspended penalties for motorists who are late renewing their car tags. The Human Services Department is now accepting documents by email, and is setting up drop boxes in the lobbies of local county offices. This is to help people applying for ARKids, food stamps (SNAP) or Temporary Employee Assistance, and people who need to provide additional documentation for other benefits. Applying in person for benefits will take longer because of statewide restrictions that allow only 10 or fewer people at any one time in the lobby of a county office.

Arkansans. This funding will allow Arkansas to better compete in the worldwide marketplace and secure the necessary equipment to keep Arkansans safe.” In a second announcement at today’s news conference, Governor Hutchinson issued an Executive Order that created the Arkansas Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act Steering Commit-

tee (Arkansas CARES Act Steering Committee). The steering committee is composed of fifteen members appointed by the Governor, six of whom are members of the General Assembly. The committee will identify the needs of the state and make recommendations to the Governor for the best use of the federal CARES Act funding.

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Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Puppies! We have lots of puppies! These are just a sample! Look at our website! Great fun for children of all ages and you can spend time training one of them to be the dog of your dreams! The really young ones are all in foster homes so you must call the shelter to schedule a time to meet them! Our older puppies are at the shelter. Many breeds and breed mixes to pick from. Call today! Puppy kisses and hugs included! ALL ANIMALS AT HSO ARE SPAYED/NEUTERED AND ARE CURRENT ON THEIR VACCINATIONS PRIOR TO ADOPTION.

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Closings and Cancellations 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. Dispersed camping is still available in both forests. At 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/. Lake Ouachita State Park is now closed after three people who went RV camping there in late March have tested positive for coronavirus. State Parks officials said they learned about it late Thursday(April 2nd) afternoon. A spokesperson stated the campers had "some level of contact with 12 of the park's 23 employees." For that reason, all of those 23 employees went under self-quarantine Thursday night. The park said they are being pro-active and working with the Arkansas Department of Health to proceed in the safest manner possible. As long as the park stays closed, rangers from two other parks will be on patrol. It is not known when park will re-open. Fresh Start Pregnancy Resource Center Classes are canceled for the week, but we are still meeting essential needs by appointment. Mena Elks Lodge 781 closed at least through April 20th. The Second Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast at the Ross Tunnell American Legion Post in Wickes has been cancelled.

April 8, 2020 Updated on PCDC's closings: Adult Services, Kids Store, Resale Store, Donation, and Recycling will be closed until April 17 in effort to help stop the spread of Corona Virus. We appreciate your understanding in this.

may call the office 479-394-7500 during business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Mena Art Gallery is closed until further notice.

Hatfield Lions Club is cancelling their Easter Egg Hunt.

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.

Board Camp Annual Pancake Breakfast has been postponed until further notice.

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. 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 can be reached at 479-394-1569 with questions or concerns. The Mena ARVAC office is closing will be closed to the public until Monday April 20th. We are still able to help individuals with utility assistance. For more information call 394-4707.

All schools in Arkansas closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school years.

Acorn Rural Water office is closed to 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 479-3941025.

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

All activities at Queen Wilhimena State Park & Cossatot River State Park cancelled until May 13th.

All OLT shows and activities cancelled or postponed due to Covid-19 Pandemic. The OLT office will also be closed until further notice. 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. Trinity Lutheran Church in Mena is closed until April 19th. They do have a recorded video service on their website: https://trinitylutheranmena.weebly.com The Warriors For Christ youth service at The Southside Church of God cancelled until further notice. Church is at 101 Dallas Avenue. The Sunday morning services are not cancelled but Sunday Night service are cancelled. Sunday Morning service begins at 10:30 and is a drive up service outside. Mena 1st United Methodist Church suspended all church activities. All services at Hatfield Methodist Church cancelled TFN. Dallas Avenue Baptist Church will be live streaming Sunday service at 10:30am. All services cancelled on campus. Bible Believers Baptist Church has no in the church building events. They will be having drive-in church Sunday mornings at 11am in the church parking lot. There will be no Sunday School. Christ's Church at Mountain Fork will not be holding services at the church until further notice. However, We invite you to visit our Facebook page: Christ's Church at Mountain Fork where you can view Bible

closings

Study lessons each week, and you may also visit You Tube sermons by typing in Mark Berrier you will have a selection of sermons to listen to. Grace Bible Church has cancelled services until further notice. There will be a video posted on social media. To contact the church dial (479) 394-4092. First Baptist Church of Mena will not have in person Sunday worship service until further notice. Sunday School lesson will be available on the Mena FBC Facebook page. Also Childrens Chat recording will be on Mena FBC Facebook page. Sunday sermon will be streamed on FBC Facebook page and recording played on KAWX radio. Also there will be a Bible Study each Wednesday at 6pm on the Mena FBC Facebook page. First Presbyterian church services are being filmed and put online. No in person service until further notice. The Union Bank lobby, First Financial Bank lobby and other banks lobbies in the area are closed until further notice. Congregate meals at Cossatot Senior Center will be closed until further notice. Will do drive up/pick up from 10am-11am. 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 NOT open for daily activities through April 17th. If you are senior citizen 60 years of age or older and would like to be pick up a meal to go at the center, call for more information at 479-394-5459. 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. We will continue serving meals to go every day form 11:30am thru 12 Noon. The Grab & Go meals are still the suggested donation price of $3.00 each. Any extra monetary donations are greatly appreciated!! The number to call is 479394-5459 to order a meal. No meals after 12 noon. Stay tuned to facebook page and alocal radio stations for further info. Prescribed Fire activity temporarily suspended by USDA Forest Service in southern states. This includes the Ouachita National Ozark-St Francis National Forests.

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Boozman Warns Arkansans of Scammers Working to Profit off Coronavirus Fears WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) is warning Arkansans to be aware of coronavirus-related scams as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports an increase in complaints of fraud and nationwide losses of $4.77 million to consumers. “Scammers and con artists are preying on fears Arkansans have related to the coronavirus, and are using this crisis to steal our money and personal information. It’s important to remain vigilant and learn how to recognize and identify schemes scammers use to avoid becoming a victim,” Boozman said. Scams have become increasingly complex and may sound or look official, but it’s important to know how thieves are operating and identify the authenticity of letters, emails, calls and websites. Below are some of the schemes offenders are using during this crisis. Boozman has published the following notice to his website, along with other resources and information related to the coronavirus, which can be viewed by visiting https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/coronavirus Recovery Checks In the coming weeks, Arkansans will be receiving recovery checks approved by Congress in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. There is no need to sign-up. The IRS will issue the one-time tax rebate check of

$1,200 to every American whose 2018 tax return, or 2019 if filed, showed income at or below $75,000. Individuals without bank information provided will receive their recovery checks in the mail. IRS representatives will not: Require you to pay a fee; or Ask you to confirm personal or financial information (including bank, PayPal or financial institution accounts.) Click here for more information on the coronavirus recovery checks guidance issued by the IRS. Social Security Seniors citizens too often fall victim to scammers. The Inspector General of Social Security is warning about fraudulent letters some beneficiaries have received that threaten suspension of Social Security benefits due to coronavirus and related office closures. It’s important to remember: Social Security will not: Threaten you with benefit suspension, arrest, or other legal action unless you pay a fine or fee; Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment; Require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire transfer, internet currency, or prepaid debit card; Demand secrecy from you in handling a Social Security-related problem; or Send official letters or reports containing personally identifiable information via email.

Not only are scammers using letters to target seniors, but they’re using illegal robocalls. Government agencies won’t call to confirm your sensitive information. Listen to this call scammers are circulating so you can be prepared if you answer a similar call. Hang up if you find yourself on the receiving end of a call like this. Block the caller and report it to the FTC. SNAP Benefits The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has received reports of possible fraud attempts targeting recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). USDA officials urge participants to be suspicious of any individual or organization that asks for your personal information including social security number, bank information and SNAP EBT or PIN number. In one potential scam, SNAP recipients were asked to enter their personal and bank account information on a website to qualify for coronavirus assistance. Federal Trade Commission The FTC supports consumers who believe they have been targeted by scammers. The agency reports an increase in coronavirus-related complaints nationwide and advises consumers to safeguard against these scams: Undeliverable goods: A website advertises in-demand products like cleaning supplies and medical equipment. Unfortunately, the order never arrives. Fake charities: Individuals want to help in trying times, but thieves create hoax charities that exploit on this generosity. The best thing to do is research charities online. Fake emails, texts and phishing: Beware of fraudulent emails and texts that ask for your personal information. Sometimes links in these scam emails can install ransomware and lock you out of your computer. Robocalls: Listen to some of the latest robocall pitches the FTC is warning that scammers are using to steal money and personal information: Fake tests for Medicare recipients Small business listing scam The FTC has a lot of information that is helpful to avoid becoming of victim of scammers. Avoid Coronavirus Scams Seven Coronavirus scams targeting your business Thinking critically about Coronavirus news and information Socially distancing from COVID-19 robocall scams If you suspect your or someone you know may have been the victim of a scam, you can file a complaint with the FTC.

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Schools Closed for Remainder of the 2019-2020 School Year Schools across the state of Arkansas will be closed for on-campus instruction for the remainder of the year, according to Governor Asa Hutchinson as stated during the latest COVID-19 press conference held Monday afternoon, April 6th. Many districts will continue to supply packets to be picked up and dropped off on site to provide resources for students who do not have reliable internet connections. Governor Asa Hutchinson reports that the decision was made out of concern for public health in our state. As far as new cases go, the state is now up to a total of 875 people who have now

tested positive for the coronavirus. No additional people have been reported to have passed away from the illness, as the death toll has stood at 16 since Sunday, April 5th. There are also 74 people currently hospitalized from COVID-19 and there is now one new county. With the addition of Izard, 65 of the 75 counties in Arkansas have reported positive coronavirus cases. With tests continuing to increase, and school out for the rest of the year, Elementary and Secondary Education Secretary Johnny Key encourages flexibility to be practiced as the home-bound situation is new for many families, and additional

learning support may be needed for students who are struggling to adjust. Many questions still remain unanswered for educators and students alike following Monday's school closure announcement. The issue of SAT/ACT testing for high school students seeking college admissions and attendance requirements varying in state public school districts still linger, as Secretary Key reports theses issues and similar concerns have begun to circulate upon the closure news. Although its "too soon to tell" how these issues will be addressed, one thing is now certain for Arkansas public school students as schoolMRHS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ent to be seen by a healthcare provider at Mena Medical Associates or The Walk-In Care Center, will be screened before entering the facility. If they present with a fever, a front entrance staff member will take their name and date of birth. The patient will be asked to wait in their car until it is time for them to go directly into an examination room. Before entering, the patient will be given a mask to wear inside the facility. Patients that are not presenting with fever or symptoms related to COVID-19 will be allowed to wait in a designated area of the waiting room. Under the guidelines of the Arkansas Department of Health, not all patients with COVID-19 symptoms will be tested. Stringent testing guidelines are designated by the state and are not decided upon by our local clinic providers. If you have knowledge of being exposed to the coronavirus (COVID-19) or become symptomatic, act as if you are infected and self-isolate immediately. Call your local provider before you seek medical attention, unless you have emergency warning signs (such as difficulty breathing), then seek medical attention right away. There is no cure for COVID-19, therefore patients are advised to treat the symptoms at home, keep track of their symptoms and remain isolated to minimize the spread of the virus. In light of the new evidence that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (asymptomatic) can transmit the virus to others, the CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings, especially in areas of significant community based transmission. The cloth face coverings are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those critical supplies must be reserved for healthcare

workers and other medical first responders. At MRHS, we continue to emphasize the critical need for social distancing to slow the spread of the virus.

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Pediatric patients may have two (2) parents or legal guardians present. Emergency Department will be limited to one (1) visitor of the patient’s choice, is non-transferable, and must stay in the room and not make multiple trips in and out of the unit. Mena Medial Associates, Mena Surgical Clinic and Ouachita Rehabilitation Center may have only one (1) visitor. Others must wait outside of clinic. Diagnostic testing and Therapy (Radiology, Laboratory and Rehabilitation Therapy) may have only one (1) visitor accompany the patients. All others must wait outside of the facility. All visitors will have their temperature checked prior to entry. Those with fever will not be allowed to enter the premises. Visitors must be healthy and not have any of the following symptoms: ▪ fever ▪ shortness of breath ▪ cough ▪ symptoms of respiratory illness ▪ close contact with someone who has tested positive or is under quarantine for COVID-19 Overnight visitors are required to stay in the patient’s room at all times and not leave the hospital from 7:00 pm until 8:00 am. Exception to this policy will be made for end-of-life situations and approved by the Clinical Director. The Comfort Café Cafeteria will be closed to the public until further notice. Important COVID-19 Testing Information: The Walk-In Care Center, located inside Mena Medical Associates at 1103 College Drive is one of three local COVID-19 screening sites in Mena. Patients that pres-

work will still be implemented through AMI packets and internet-based instruction. Officials report that internet capacity should be expanded where feasible in order for teachers to upload assignments and students to receive their work. Another issue addressed regarding the school closures is child nutrition. Secretary Key reports that meal programs will still be supplied so long as campuses comply with the Arkansas Department of Heath's regulations. More updates will be reported on the COVID-19 Pandemic developments as information is released. Again, there are total of 875 people who have tested positive for the coronavirus in the state of Arkansas. No additional people have been reported to have passed away from the illness, as the death toll still stands at 16. There are 74 people hospitalized from COVID-19 and there is now one new county. With the addition of Izard, 65 of the 75 counties in Arkansas have reported positive coronavirus cases.

The Mena Regional Auxiliary, Inc. recently awarded $1,000 scholarships to three recipients who are currently enrolled in a medical-related field. Kensie Sawyer is a junior attending the University of Arkansas Fort Smith in pursuit of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing degree. Submitted photo.

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MyPulseNews.com

April 8, 2020

COMMENCEMENT OR NOT

OUR SENIORS ROCK! THE CLASS OF 2020 KENA GRADUATION CELEBRATION on

Today's Best Country 104.1 KENA! It's simple! We want to give a shout out to your graduating high school senior! Submit their name, school, extracurricular activities or honors, and their plans for the future. We'll announce your senior salute live on air weekdays on

The Morning Ride with J.P. J.

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Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Country - KENA-FM 104.1

Graduate Salute

Date:_________________ Name of Graduate: ________________________________________ School: _________________________________________________ Special Honors: ___________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Extracurricular Activities (Clubs, Athletics, Hobbies):____________ ________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________

at 7:50 starting on April 20th

Future Plans: _____________________________________________

Send us the info today on your senior via:

________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________

NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM

Let's hear it for the Class of 2020 from Mena, Mount Ida, Acorn, Cossatot River, Oden.... Tune in for the KENA GRADUATION CELEBRATION as we salute ou our seniors on Today's Best Country 104.1 KENA

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Call (479) 243-9600 (or) Email NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM