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April 15, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY
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The Best of the Best Combined: The Pulse and Mena Radio Announce Merger
[MENA, Ark.] A merger of two local media outlets has been announced that will be the first of its kind in the local area. Ouachita Broadcasting, Inc., [MENA RADIO] and The Polk County Pulse have announced a deal to merge their two operations into one. Ouachita Broadcasting includes KENA-FM 104.1, KQOR-FM 105.3, and 1450AM. The Polk County Pulse includes the weekly print newspaper as well as an online publication, MyPulseNews.com and live-streaming video through MyPulseNews TV. The combined operation will now allow advertisers to have a very simplified manner in which to purchase radio, print, web, and video all through one source. “Instead of multiple sales reps, advertisers will have one marketing specialist to handle all of their advertising needs, one payment, one place… all strategically working together, building a consistent message and brand, thereby, giving businesses the most out of their advertising dollars,” said LeAnn Dilbeck, who will continue to serve as Publisher and now General Manager over the combined operation. All the same faces you know from both the Pulse and radio will remain and all are looking forward to being able to better serve their customers’ needs and its readers and listening audience as well. “We strongly believe this merger will allow us to deliver stronger and more comprehensive news coverage and community service opportunities for our area. I’ve been impressed with the great products that LeAnn and her talented staff provide. The growth they’ve CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
Bear State Bank Donates to Lady Tiger Softball Program
Sheriff Announces Upcoming Town Hall Meetings
BY MELANIE BUCK Polk County Sheriff Mike Godfrey announced two dates for town hall style meetings that will center around discussion for a proposed $10.9 million new jail facility at the monthly Polk County RepubCONTINUED ON PAGE 14
School Choice Deadline Moved Up to May 1
BY MELANIE BUCK The Arkansas Legislature has amended the Public School Choice Act of 2013 and among the changes is a new deadline. The Act passed in 2013 was to sunset this summer and lawmakers knew they had to CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Bear State Bank Mena Market President Greg Goss presents a $2,500 check to Acorn Lady Tigers Head Softball Coach Chris Ledbetter on behalf of the Bear State Bank Foundation. The Lady Tigers will be using the money for new uniforms and equipment.The Lady Tigers are undefeated in conference play, 3-0. [PHOTO BY SUSAN HOWARD]
Judge Ellison Instrumental in Passage of Act 898
BY MELANIE BUCK The General Assembly has passed and Governor Asa Hutchinson has signed into law the Arkansas Unpaved Roads Program Act 898, which could significantly improve the way that some unpaved roads CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
www.washburns.com Mon-Fri 8:30 to 6:00 • Sat 9:00 - 3:00 (479) 394-4332 • (888) 394-4332
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
The Polk County Pulse & MyPulseNews.com
editor
A NOTE FROM THE
I’ve heard my whole life the old sayin’ “Don’t bite off more than you can chew,” and recently, that took on profound significance when the Pulse crew wanted to conquer the Talimena 13.1! If someone asked me if I would, on any given Saturday (that one and only day of the week I get to sleep in), want to get up on a very cool morning and run 13 miles up Rich Mountain, my expedient response would be, “Not this girl!” However, there we were, Team Pulse, doing just that with a healthy dose of community spirit and a heart for our friends at PCDC. Thank goodness for my incredibly out of shape lungs, we had a 13-member relay team so each would only have to run a 1-mile leg of the race, making it more “chewable” for me! And never has focus, determination, and the spirit of teamwork meant as much. Just as I was certain I would never feel my legs again or that I was either having a heart attack or a lung collapse, I began hearing fellow runners cheering me on… one foot after another hitting that pavement staying focused on my son who would take the baton to begin the final leg of the race appropriately dubbed “Upchuck Hill.” Race day came at the end of a very big week for the Pulse, the announcement of our merger with Mena Radio. Rich Mountain became a metaphorical reality for Team Pulse. None of us able to run a full 13 miles on our own, not to mention up a mountain, but as a team, there’s nothing we can’t do. Mile after mile… some uphill, some downhill… but always working as a team encouraging each other and each other’s families, and ALWAYS keeping our eyes forward. PROVERBS 4:25 - Let your
eyes look directly ahead, and let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you.
Running a mile isn’t much of an accomplishment for most people, but that day became more than just a race… that mountaintop symbolized the pride, love and respect I have for the incredible Team Pulse that God has blessed us with… that never tires or ceases but continues on up the hill with their eyes focused on the prize. PHILIPPIANS 3:14 - …press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. In most instances, we spend more awake time with our co-workers than we do with our own families so I only wish everyone could experience working in an environment as supportive as mine. Reaching that mountaintop Saturday gave us pride as a team and a tradition we plan to continue. We are looking forward to merging with another strong team with an incredibly rich heritage with grateful hearts for the continued upward climb to wherever He leads. All for His Glory -
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PHONE: 479-243-9600 FAX: 479-243-9603 1168 Hwy 71 South, Mena The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays with a distribution of 8,000 and estimated readership of 10,000. All rights to contents are reserved by D&L Publishing Co. MyPulseNews.com currently has an on-line audience of 31,000 giving us a combined readership of 39,000. POLICY: The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of D & L Publishing Co. & The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be pre-paid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
SUBMITTED BY PETE CHAMBERS There’s no better place to show your fantastic quilts – and your mother’s and your grandmother’s fantastic quilts – than the Ouachita Quilt Show, June 5-6. Held during Mena’s Lum and Abner Festival, the Quilt Show attracts visitors from all over. Plan now to let those visitors see your quilts. Mark your calendar to bring them to the Historic Armory on Wednesday, June 3 between 8 a.m. and noon. When you show your quilts, you’ll also be helping our community – proceeds from the Quilt Show will benefit the Polk County Single Parent Scholarship Fund and Extension Homemaker Clubs projects. If you have questions or need more information, contact Sharon Chambers at 479-243-0817.
Lum & Abner Fast Approaching SUBMITTED BY CANDACE RINER The Mena Advertising and Promotion is gearing up for Mena’s signature event, the 38th Annual Lum & Abner Festival on June 5th and 6th. This two day festival will kick off on Friday, June 5th at Janssen Park in Mena with an exciting line up of entertainment and events for the whole family. This year the festival is going back to its roots and will be a true arts & crafts festival with only arts & crafts vendors along with our great food vendors! In addition, there will be free live entertainment on the Aleshire Electric Entertainment Stage, the Lum & Abner Car, Truck, Corvette and Motorcycle Show; Kiddie Korner, Bounce Houses, and Rock Climbing Wall; 5K Run/Walk; Outhouse Races; Lil’ Miss and Mister Pageant produced by the Lady Ouachitas; 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament; Softball Tournament; Polk County Extension Office Quilt Show held in the Old Armory; Union Bank Firefighter’s Challenge; Fishing Derbies; Lion’s Club BBQ cook-off; Lum & Abner Radio Shows; RE/MAX Baby Crawlin’ Contest; All American Lumberjack Show; The Outlaws Gunfighter Group and more! The deadline for arts and crafts and food vendors has been extended through Friday, May 22nd. You can go online to www.VisitMena.com/vendor-reservation-forms to print a downloadable form or e-mail info@visitmena.com to request one to be sent by mail. You can also find a complete schedule of events and sponsorship forms on the website. The A&P welcomes interested businesses and organizations to be a festival sponsor and have their logo on the festival t-shirt. Please call 479-394-8355 by Wednesday, April 22nd if you would like to support the festival with your sponsorship. Janssen Park is the place to be on June 5th and 6th so mark your calendar now and don’t miss all the fun. Please “Like” us on Facebook “Lum & Abner Festival” and follow all the happenings for this year’s festival!
NEWS
Get Ready to Display Your Beautiful Quilt
When faced with a choice of which ambulance service to choose from our local hospital
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Mena Police Issue Telephone Scam Alerts BY MELANIE BUCK Mena Police Department has issued a statement informing citizens of two phone scams that have recently been reported to authorities. A local woman reported to Mena PD that she was contacted by telephone and was advised that she was the recipient of a $10,000.00 grant from the government. She was then told to send a $250.00 money gram to them for a transaction fee. The second instance regards individuals calling residences and claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The caller demands money, saying that a payment needs to be made online, or they ask for checking account information or credit card number. Mena PD warns that these calls are not from the IRS. The IRS works exclusively with the United States Postal Service and does not make phone calls to communicate with taxpayers.
Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
•394-1938• Owner: Stacy & Julie Nash
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office will be sponsoring the annual Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25th. This event will be held at the front door of the Polk County Courthouse, beginning at 10 AM and ending at 1 PM. They will be collecting prescription medications that are no longer needed or are old and out of date, so that they can be disposed of in a safe manner. Please mark this date on your calendars as a day to participate in an effort to help make Polk County homes a little bit safer.
‘Ladies Night Out’ Planned for Charlie Brown!
There are a number of special performances planned for the OLT’s upcoming “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!” Sunday, April 19, will be Nidec night with special discounts for Nidec employees. Saturday, April 24, will be Ladies Night Out. This includes a light dinner at American Artisans and of course the show. Reserve tickets for Ladies Night Out are available at Arvest Bank. For more information and performance times, check out page 29.
MRHS Conducts Ebola Safety Drill
SUBMITTED Mena Regional Health System recently participated in the River Valley Region Ebola Drill. Thirteen hospitals in the region participated in the event, which included Emergency Department physicians, nursing staff, laboratory technologists, and other employees that may come in contact with the possibly infected patient. A RMCC nursing student was used as the 22-year old ‘patient’ to help emergency workers prepare for an unexpected outbreak. The ‘patient’ showed symptoms associated with Ebola such as, flu like symptoms, complaining of high fever, muscle pain, headache, and abdominal pain. The ‘patient’ said that they had traveled to Sierra Leone and had contact with an ill family member while visiting. The drill continued with immediate and precise infection control ensuring the safety of the patients, staff, and community. The River Valley Region conducts tabletop and functional drills yearly in an effort to educate hospitals and communities on current issues affecting safety in health care. “The drills have proven to be extremely effective in ensuring safety, infection control, and overall preparedness,” said MRHS.
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Drug Take Back Day Announced
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April 15, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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More than a school, we are a family. Ouachita River School District...A place to belong! • Excellent test scores • RMCC courses tuition free for Acorn & Oden students • New Middle School for 6th - 8th grade students • AP courses • Family environment • Small and safe environment • Two full-time police officers • Nationally recognized archery program • State champion athletics • Expanding band and choir classes • Technology • New rodeo team • Varsity Baseball • New bass fishing team • Wellness clinic on campus • Tobacco free campus • After school tutoring program
School Choice Deadline is May 1st! Applications can be picked up at the central office on Acorn Campus (143 Polk 96) and turned in by May 1st.
479-394-2348
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Traveling Gavel Promotes 21 Years of Masonic Brotherhood
NEWS
BY MELANIE BUCK There are many things, people, and objects that can promote a sense of brotherhood and friendship among society, and in the case of the Masons, it happens to be a traveling gavel. For twenty-one years, the gavel has been ceremoniously passed from one Lodge to the next creating bonds between those that otherwise might’ve never met. On May 19, 1994, the Masonic Lodge in Selkirk, Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada, began the tradition of the ‘Selkirk Gavel.’ Sending the gavel to the next Lodge, along with a book for each Lodge to sign and record what the gavel was used for, Selkirk #55 was expecting to receive it back within 3 years. However, in 1997, the gavel was in New Mexico and it’s up to the Lodge in possession where it will travel next. Little did they know, it would still be traveling twenty-one years later still serving its purpose – “to promote brotherhood and enlarge the circle of fraternal friends between the Lodges visited.” It has traveled across Canada and the United States to one hundred seventy-six Lodges, Eastern Star Chapters, and Auxiliary Units, and on April 2, 2015, Mountain Meadow #218 – Hatfield Worshipful Master Jerry Smith, delivered the infamous gavel to Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 – Mena Worshipful Master Lou Brooks, making it’s one hundred seventyseventh stop. “The Master of the Lodge makes a note of what he did with the gavel, whether he opened and closed ceremonies with it, who was present, and if there were any dignitaries there,” said District Deputy Grand Master Rusty Gonzales. “One of the highlights was that it was put on an airplane, a C-9 which is a hospital airplane for the military. It was flown from El Paso to California,” said Brooks. It is also dedicontinued on page 8 [RIGHT]: Jerry Smith, W.M. Mountain Meadows #218, presents to Selkirk Gavel to Lou Brooks, W.M. Dallas Lodge #128, and Rusty Gonzales, DDGM.
Mark Campbell Honored
2642 Hwy. 71 N. Mena, AR 71953 (479) 243-9494
All showing Mark Campbell’s iconic “thumbs up,” Mark’s friends and family gathered Saturday at the Mena Elks Lodge on the day that Mena Mayor George McKee had proclaimed “Mark Campbell Day” to raise money for his family as he continues cancer treatments.
We sell the best and work on the rest!
Open Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m.-Noon
April 15, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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NEWS
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
School Choice
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE)
NEWS
amend the Act in order to continue to give parents the right to choose the school district their children attend. Now named the Public School Choice Act of 2015, the new deadline to choose is May 1, a full month earlier than the previous Act granted. The purpose of the Act was to give parents more options on the education of their children. In partial, it reads: (1) The students in Arkansas’s public schools and their parents will become more informed about and involved in the public educational system if students and their parents are provided greater freedom to determine the most effective school for meeting their individual educational needs. There is no right school for every student, and permitting students to choose from among different schools with differing assets will increase the likelihood that some at-risk students will stay in school and that other, more motivated students will find their full academic potential; (2) Giving more options to parents and students with respect to where the students attend public school will increase the responsiveness and effectiveness of the state’s schools because teachers, administrators, and school board members will have added incentive to satisfy the educational needs of the students who reside in the district. Public school choice was first brought about by an Act created in 1989, which was quickly changed in 2013 due to federal courts finding parts of the Act unconstitutional, in the middle of Legislative session. Because of time restrictions, the Act was temporarily changed and was due to expire on July 1, 2015. Other changes included in the 2015 Act include desegregation orders, transferring students, and changes within the standards and limitations given in the law. Standards for a student wanting to choose a district other than where they live are: (A) May include without limitation the capacity of a program, class, grade level, or school building; (B) May include a claim of a lack of capacity by a school district only if the school district has reached at least ninety percent (90%) of the maximum authorized student population in a program, class, grade level, or school building; (C) Shall include a statement that priority will be given to an applicant who has a sibling or stepsibling who resides in the same household and is already enrolled in the nonresident district by choice; and shall not include an applicant’s academic achievement, athletic or other extracurricular ability, English proficiency level, or previous disciplinary proceedings, except that an expulsion from another district may be included. A school district receiving transfers under this subchapter shall not discriminate on the basis of gender, national origin, race, ethnicity, religion, or disability. To find out more about school choice, contact your local school administrator to discuss your options in selecting the district that best suits your child.
City-Wide Spring Clean-Up Continues
Traveling Gavel
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6)
cated to visit the Sea of Tranquility, if ever there is a way to get there. The Sea of Tranquility is on the moon, which has a piece of land chartered by the Grand Lodge of Texas in Waco. In the book it states, “Bro. Gower will present the treasured gavel to Tranquility Lodge No. 2000, whose location is at the Sea of Tranquility (territorial jurisdiction of Texas) located on the moon whose address is Grand Lodge of Texas, Waco, TX, until such time the charter can be moved to the moon and stated meetings commence.” “Most traveling gavels require five or more members to deliver it to the next Lodge to promote brotherhood and the visiting of other charters,” explained Brooks. As to where it will travel next, Dallas Lodge #128 plans to carry the gavel to Lockesburg, Arkansas. Wanting to pass the actions of brotherhood along to the next generation, the local chapters of Masons are beginning to support local Cub Scout Troops and are also big supporters of education. “The Masonic Lodge built and supported the school at Old Dallas in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s,” said Gonzales. Brooks added, “That was one of the reasons for the existence of the Masonic Lodge, to build and support schools.” In recognition of educational support, the Mason’s also give a scholarship to a graduating high school senior. They will hold an Old Fashion Breakfast Scholarship Fundraiser, this Saturday, April 18, at the Dallas Lodge, 701 Port Arthur Street, Mena, from 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. Cost of the breakfast is donation only and proceeds will benefit the scholarship fund.
Crews from the City of Mena Street Department have begun the annual City-wide Spring Cleanup. Last Thursday crews were working their way through neighborhoods between Sherman and Reine Streets. The picture shows the crew loading a discarded hot tub. The Street Department expects the cleanup to take approximately two more weeks, however, with rainy weather in sight for the remainder of this week, delays are possible.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES The Ouachita River School District has two position openings for
Secondary English Teacher at Acorn High School
& District Treasurer Interested applicants should send resume or an email to: Jerrall A. Strasner, Superintendent of Schools Ouachita River School District 143 Polk 96, Mena, AR 71953 jstrasner@orsd.k12.ar.us
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Act 898
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE)
NEWS
are constructed and maintained in the state. Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison is a co-chair to the program and testified to the Arkansas Senate City County and Local Committee in the Senate and to the House Transportation Committee promoting passage of the bill, which became, officially, Act 898 on April 2, 2015. The bill will provide better funding opportunities for counties to provide training for road maintenance and techniques that minimize negative impacts to water and air quality. The funding will also allow for demonstrations of new and innovative techniques of dirt and gravel road construction and maintenance to assist in training of road crews, particularly in the area of sedimentation issues. Environmental groups, such as the Center for Biological Diversity, have been pressuring the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to create a way to prevent what they deem is a freshwater extinction crisis. A settlement was reached between the two groups in 2011 that moved the protection process forward on 757 species and plants that contribute to “contribute
to one of the most biologically diverse regions of the United States.” The program sites the problem of sedimentation to erosion on unpaved roads. Eroding unpaved roads can channel rainfall runoff, increasing erosion and sediment delivery to streams, rivers, and lakes. The sediment is said to have negative effects such as filling-in gravel streambeds causing the loss of in-stream habitats, freshwater sources become more expensive to treat for drinking water, and also contributes to loss of lake capacities. Eroding unpaved roads are expensive to maintain, requiring continual grading to smooth the surface of the roadway. Erosion damaged roads can also cause excessive wear and tear on vehicles. High levels of road dust are also a significant issue of unpaved roads in rural areas. Counties with mostly rural areas are hard pressed to find the funding to fix all of the issues. It often comes down to how much traffic the road has daily compared to another. To properly correct the issues at hand, Best Management Practices, or BMP’s, are being implemented to reduce erosion and sedimentation by providing better drainage to the road system, stabilizing erodible ditches and drainage outlets, and creating a more durable surface. BMP’s generally cost more at the beginning, but can greatly reduce long-term costs. Leaders of the program have set forth what they deem is the solution and say their vision is “to establish a proactive, incentive-based unpaved roads management program that results in the utilization of best management practices on rural unpaved roads to minimize erosion, stretch county dollars farther, and maintain and improve the health of priority lakes and rivers.” The Act states that unpaved roads in the state are the transportation backbone for rural communities and for many economic sectors in Arkansas, including timber, agriculture, ranching, and energy. Unpaved roads provide access to the public for hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, and other recreational and tourist activities and public access is vital to the economy, tourism, and public enjoyment of natural resources in the state. The erosion of unpaved roads can have negative effects on the state’s economy, tourism, and CONCLUSION ON PAGE 10
Williams Medical Clinic, L.L.C.
Dr. Robert S. Williams, M.D. All Major Insurance Accepted 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953
479-243-9024
New Patients Welcome
Thank You! We would like to take this time to thank our family, friends and the community for their prayers and support during Jack’s diagnosis of rectal cancer, radiation and chemotherapy treatments. He still has a long road ahead with additional chemo treatments and surgery in the near future. A benefit account has been set up at the Union Bank to help cover expenses.
Jack & Jessica Sickles
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
NEWS
Merger (CONCLUSION)
experienced over the past few years has been truly remarkable. Of course, everyone knows about the rich heritage and tradition that KENA has been known for since 1950. So we’re excited that our listeners, readers, viewers, and advertisers now have easy access to all the best of the best!”said owner Jay Bunyard. “Even items for the calendar,” said Dilbeck, “can be streamlined. Email or drop off to one source and they will be announced on-air, printed in
the Pulse newspaper, and online at MyPulseNews.com.” Ouachita Broadcasting, namely KENA, has been serving the local community for over 65-years. Nielsen ratings prove KENA-FM to be the radio station of choice to begin everyone’s day with an average listenership of 7,600. KQOR-FM has an average audience share of 4,900. The Polk County Pulse began in August 2007, circulating 4,000 print copies and in just 8 years, has now grown to 8,000 print and an average of 24,000 online readers. The merger is said to be complete by June 1. For now, both operations will continue to operate in separate loca-
tions. Phone numbers and emails will remain the same. “We want to keep everyone connected and while some like to listen, others like to read, and by saturating the market with our coverage, we plan to continue to be an integral and active part of our local area,” said Dilbeck. “We have lots of exciting things planned and want the community to be a part of it all. Join us as we celebrate May 29 at The Pulse’s office at 1168 Hwy 71 South with free hot dogs from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and KENA 104.1 will be doing a live remote! Come meet the familiar faces and maybe meet some new ones!”
Act 898 (CONCLUSION)
natural resources. Judge Ellison said of Act 898, “It inoculates us from litigation from environmental groups and it also gives a rural county judge a little bit of road money to work on roads. It’s a good thing.” Wolf Pen Gap has been one of the areas affected by clashing views of endangered species and unpaved roads causing sedimentation in a waterway. Environmentalists were concerned over the Arkansas fatmucket mussel, one of only two mussel species in the state, while all-terrain vehicle riders were concerned over the 42 miles of trails threatened with closure and county officials were concerned over the loss of $58.6 million in tourist dollars from the popular attraction. A decision was handed out in January, by the United States Forestry Service, that leaves 41.7 miles of trails in Wolf Pen Gap open, either seasonally or year-round, making it a compromise between the groups. The Arkansas Unpaved Roads Program will combine the resources of public and private organizations and provide incentives for the maintenance of select low-volume, unpaved public roads maintained by counties in Arkansas for the purpose of maintaining and improving the health of the state’s economy and natural resources. The state will use a public-private partnership arrangement to assist counties in funding unpaved road projects and provide funding for demonstration, training, promotion, and use of BMP’s in construction and maintenance of rural unpaved roads adjacent to or near lakes, rivers, or streams. Judge Ellison said, “Our team and partners have worked hard on this effort over the last two years. This program will bring dollars from private and corporate entities as well as from existing state and federal agencies that will help rural counties. Polk County has already benefitted via a demonstration project. The Arkansas Unpaved Roads Program will also help us and the state fend off environmental litigation over the sedimentation issue as it relates to the Endangered Species Act.” Partners of the program include Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts, Arkansas Farm Bureau, Arkansas Forestry Association, Arkansas Forestry Commission, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, Arkansas Natural Resources ComGet’s you back where you belong. mission, County Judges, Natural Resources Conservation Service, The Association of Arkansas Counties, The Nature Conservancy, Christy Medlin University of Arkansas, and U.S. Fish and Insurance Agent Wildlife Service, as well as many more. “There are targeted areas that are the MEDLIN most environmentally offensive. We have to INSURANCE be proactive in stopping the sedimentation.” AGENCY Judge Ellison explained that these projects will not only be proactive, but it also gives drivers a better roadway. “When someone LICENSED IN OKLAHOMA comes along to try to sue us over the sedi& ARKANSAS ment issue, and tries to shut down someplace like Wolf Pen Gap, or wants to close 900 Hwy. 71 N. more roads than are closed now, we can tell Mena, AR 71953 the federal judge, ‘look, we’re proactive on cmedlin@farmersagent.com this issue with this program. We do these 479-394-5555 things, to stop this problem,’ then the judge is going to see and know that we are trying.”
Auto-Home-Life Motorcycle Mobile Home Boat-ATV
Letter of Appreciation from Mitch and Miss Rae Lankford We would like to thank all of the parents who entrusted us with their most precious possession, their children, to love and teach since 1989. It has been our great pleasure to work with all the parents and children over these years. We have been blessed with great staff and our success is due to their hard work and dedication to make Kids 1st the very best it could be. We earned the highest 3-Star rating Arkansas Better Chance offers, which was due to the hard work of Lorene White, Director and Joanna Paniaqua, Cafeteria Supervisor. These two ladies, as well as their families, worked tirelessly to insure our pre-school’s success. We all loved working as a team with parents and children to help educate and teach their children to love learning through their experiences. Over the years we have had some excellent staff, too numerous to mention all of their names. Many of these went above and beyond what the job required by working and training past their normal eight hour day. Our hearty “thanks” goes to all who dedicated their time to better relate to our kids. Our present staff, Lorene White, Joanna Paniagua, Rachel and Josh Spencer, Ina Louis, and Donna Kiersey have unselfishly given of their love and talents to the very end. Additionally, I would like to thank Debbie Potter, Licensing Specialist as well as Pete Johnson and Marge King, Department of Human Services for their unyielding support over the years. Others include the Single Parent Program, T-Program and Ed and Aline Johnson of the Grandparent Program; two “grandparents” whom the kids loved for five years. Also, our appreciation goes to RMCC, Donna Lay of the Rich Mountain Nursing Home, and the staff of Louise Durham School. Our Mena Fire Department, Mena Police Department, Mena Regional Health System, Mena Mayor and Mena Street Department are all part of our success. Tommy Young and his Wildlife Program, The Mena Star, The Pulse, Dwight Douglas of KENA Radio have been friends of our kids for years. Walmart, James’ Super Save Foods, Arkansas Employment Security, Union Bank and ARvest Bank have all given their support for our kids, too. Lastly, we want to thank Diana Hicks of DeQueen/Mena Educational Cooperative, along with their educational specialists, Susanna, Mandy, Joyce, Billy and Bethany for professionally helping our kids. A final thank you goes to our Board of Directors, Gerald Bates, Joe Mannon and Griff Liles for their untiring effort to make Kids 1st, Inc., the very best. Apparently the old African Proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” more recently made popular by former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton is actually true. Thanks to all who have helped in any way and please forgive us if we failed to include you. It is our prayer that all of our former students will become future leaders and influential members of our community and that they will pass on their experiences at Kids 1st, Inc., to their children for generations to come. We love all of you. Sincerely,
Mitch and Miss Rae Lankford
Page 11
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Jean Moon, age 83 of Cove, AR was promoted to Heaven Monday, April 6, 2015 in Hot Springs, AR after a brief illness. She was born February 18, 1932 in Jonesville, LA to the late Coy Vardaman Nason and Jean Gallender Nason. She was raised in Louisiana, specifically Shreveport, before her move to Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Glen Moon; her only sibling, a brother, Neil Raymond Nason; and a stepgranddaughter, Monica Moon. She is survived by one daughter, Donna McCullen of Cove, AR; two step-daughters, Janet Parmelee and husband Doug of Shreveport, LA and Anita White and husband Jeff of Shreveport, LA; three step-sons, Timothy Moon of San Antonio, TX, Phil Moon and wife Carole of Shreveport, LA, Ben Moon and wife Nora, of Shreveport, LA; grandchildren, Jacob McCullen, Lisa Gaines and husband Dennis, Hannah McCullen, Katie Titsworth and husband Lee, Rachel McCullen, Nathan Parmelee and wife Kathy, Matthew Parmelee, Joshua Moon and wife Sveta, Caleb Moon, Kristen Moon, Kori Moon, Alex Moon, David Moon and wife Beth, Garrett Moon, Michael Moon, Olivia Moon, Frederick White, Anna White and Rebekah White. She is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, countless friends, and a very special niece, Laura Nason. Her body has been sent for cremation under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. A celebration of her life will be held at her church home, Penuel Assembly in Hatfield, AR on Saturday, April 18, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. A memorial service was held at the Christian Center in Shreveport, LA on Monday April 13, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. Her family would like to express their appreciation for the continual outpouring of love through words of encouragement expressed via e-mails, text messages, phone calls and most of all, prayers.
Judith (Judy) Ellen Sanderson Mrs. Judith (Judy) Ellen Sanderson, 75, of Monroe, NC, passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 8, 2015. She was born March 3, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, to the late John Augustus Hildebrand II and Ellen Marie Scott Hildebrand. Judy was a 1958 graduate of Lyons Township High School in La Grange, IL and earned an Associate’s Degree from Lyon’s Township
Shirley Ross Garrison Shirley Ross Garrison, age 70, of Wickes, Arkansas passed away Saturday, April 11, 2015 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born April 23, 1944 in DeQueen, Arkansas to the late Grady Ross, Jr. and Frances Runnells Ross. She was happily married to Charles Garrison for 38 years and was a loving homemaker. She will be greatly missed by all. She is survived by husband, Charles Garrison; children, Cindy McKee of Wickes, Arkansas, Kim and Howard Wilson of Wickes, Arkansas, Charlene and James Bailey of Cove, Arkansas, DeWayne Oglesby of Wickes, Arkansas; grandchildren, Justin Simmons, Klinton Wilson, Kevin Wilson, T.K. Bailey, Shelby Bai-
ley, Jessie Bailey; great grandchildren, Kasten Simmons, Kaden Simmons, Alaina Simmons, Ashlynn Simmons; nephews, Shawn Dees and Jeremey Lyle; several cousins and a host of family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jr. and Frances Ross and her sister Pam Lyle. Services were Tuesday, April 14, 2015, 2:00 p.m. at the Nazarene Church in Wickes, Arkansas with Reverend Chris Burke officiating. Interment will be at Crystal Hill Cemetery in Wickes, Arkansas. Arrangements are under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation for family and friends was Monday, April 13, 2015 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Beasley Wood Funeral Home in Mena. Pallbearers were Thomas Jenkins, Gary Thomas, Terry Thomas, Travis Garrison, Weston Burke, and Michael Parnell.
Price Kristopher Crawford Price Kristopher Crawford, age 27, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2015 in Mena. He was born August 25, 1987 in Fayetteville, Arkansas to Kristopher Ashley Crawford and Kristi Lee Price. Price worked in the family business at Price Mobile Homes. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and especially enjoyed being down on the Price farm in Wickes. He was a loving son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend and he will be forever missed. He is survived by mother, Kristi Lee Price of Mena, Arkansas; father, Kris Crawford and wife Kelly of Mena, Arkansas; maternal grandparents, Sherman and Norma Price of Mena, Arkansas; paternal grandparents, John and Becky Crawford of Fayetteville, Arkansas; brother, Karson Crawford of Mena, Arkansas; step-sister, Shelby Crawford of Mena, Arkansas; uncle, Kevin Crawford and wife, Leigh, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; aunt, Kim Johnson and husband, Mike, of Fayetteville, Arkansas; great-aunts and uncles, Kathy and Dood Baker of Wickes, Arkansas, Brenda Tate of Mena, Arkansas, Barbara Beaver and husband Eric of Atlanta, Georgia, Barbara Humphries of Little Rock, Arkansas, Larry Wilcher and wife Susan of Wickes, Arkansas, Roger Wilcher and Ellen of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; cousins, Leon Price, Jr. of Texarkana, Texas, and mom, Nancy, Tyler Johnson and wife, Kelly, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Taylor Matthews and husband, Josh, of New Orleans, Louisiana, Caroline Crawford of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Kayla Pullen and husband Jeff of Mena, Arkansas, Tracy Tate-Allphin of Mena, Arkansas. And a host other relatives, friends and, Dodger. He was preceded in death by his grand-
parents, Melvin and Bessie Wilcher, and Millard and Effie Price, and by his uncle, Leon Price, Sr. Graveside services were Monday, April 13, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Crystal Hill Cemetery at Wickes with Brother Ron Tilley officiating. Visitation was general. Arrangements were under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Honorary pallbearers were Karson Crawford, Larry Wilcher, Roger Wilcher, Dood Baker, C.J. Goforth, Mitchell Tidwell, Jerry Sanders, Leon Price, Jr., Zack Lunsford, Josh Lunsford, Derek Walker, Mason Johnston, Mike Wilcox and Trent Smith.
OBITUARIES
Jean Moon
Jr. College. She resided in Mena, AR from 1973-1991 where she was owner/operator of Stewman’s Floral Shop. Since then she has resided in the Charlotte/Monroe, NC area where she retired from First Citizens Bank in 2005. Mrs. Sanderson is survived by her husband of 53 yrs, Bruce Sanderson; daughters, Kathy Lynne Ryan of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Judith “Judy” Ellen (Billy) Graves, of Monroe, NC; four grandchildren, Clinton Alan (Stefanie) of Bentonville, AR, Erin Nicole Ryan (John White) of Bentonville, AR, Olyvia Marie (Michael) Gegorek of Charlotte, NC, and Kimberly Ann Graves of Monroe, NC; and six great-grandchildren, Ethan, Parker, Bailey, Payton, Owen, and Evelyn who loved their GiGi. Judy was preceded in death by her brother, John Augustus Hildebrand, III. Judy had an unwavering faith in God. She was a member of Central United Methodist Church of Monroe, NC. She was a dedicated choir member with a beautiful voice. She loved gardening and took great pride in caring for the landscape of our horse farm in Monroe. Judy loved to be with her children and most of all her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. During her fight with Ovarian Cancer, Judy spent her final days at home supported by her family and the gentle caregivers of Hospice of Union County. She is now at peace singing in God’s choir of angels and tending to the beautiful flower gardens in heaven. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday, April 16, 2015, at Central United Methodist Church, 801 S. Hayne Street, Monroe, NC 28112, conducted by Rev. George Freeman, pastor. The family will receive friends following the memorial service, at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: - Teal Diva http://www.tealdiva.org/donate - Central United Methodist Church Choir, 801 S. Hayne St., Monroe, NC 28112 Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory is caring for the Sanderson Family. Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com
Mike Barber On the morning of April 10, 2015, Mike Barber peacefully passed away at Hospice Home Care in Little Rock with his sister Teresa at his side. He no longer has to struggle to breathe as a result of COPD and is now free from chronic back pain. Mike was born on May 14, 1947 in Mena, Arkansas, where he lived most of his life. He spent the past year in North Little Rock, Arkansas, near his sister, Teresa. Mike loved the outdoors and watching sports, especially the Razorbacks. Upon completing high school, he joined the US Marine Corps. During his time in the US Marine Corps he was recognized for “Heroic Achievement” while serving in Vietnam where he assisted with the injured and fought flames after an explosion of a 155mm Howitzer while being exposed to exploding ammunition. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian and Thell Barber; brother, Randy Barber; and grandparents, Buster and Villa Brown and Dora and Frank Barber. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Barber-Benoit of Niantic, CT; sons, Zach Barber of Bowling Green, KY, Jeff Barber of Bozeman, MT, granddaughters, Isabella Benoit and Tori Barber; sister, Teresa Barber Smith (Rickey) of Sherwood, AR; niece, Amanda Smith-Tran (Trung); great-niece, Maggie Tran of Carrollton, TX, and a host of cousins and friends. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, April 20, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. at the Beasley Wood Chapel in Mena. Contributions may be made to Hospice Home Care, 2200 South Bowman Rd, Little Rock, AR, 72211. A special thank you to Ms. Linda Huggins and Bro. Paul Holderfield for their visits and support in Mike’s last days.
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AT THE CAPITOL
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
State Overhauls Technical Job Skills Training
Bell Not to Seek Re-Election
BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE LITTLE ROCK – Among the most important economic development legislation approved this year are three new laws that dramatically restructure how Arkansas trains people for the technical job skills they need to work in today’s work place. The governor and the sponsors of the three bills described them as foundational and momentum changing, adding that they will make Arkansas more competitive in recruiting industries that pay well. At the bill signing ceremony at the state Capitol were the directors of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, the Department of Workforce Services and the Department of Career Education. Also attending were the heads of the Higher Education Department and the Education Department. Leaders of the business community were there also. The three bills re-organize all the various components of the Arkansas vocational system and put them under the oversight of one board, which will have representatives of the state’s major industries. The board will determine which job skills are in most demand and it will coordinate training programs so that people have access to training. Carrying out the will of the board will be a new division within the Career Education Department. It will be called the Office of Skills Development. Act 892 outlines the composition and duties of the office and the new Career Education and Workforce Development Board. Act 1131, the Workforce Initiative Act, sets up a funding process for job training programs. Community colleges, technical institutes, universities, public schools and private organizations will apply for funding grants. Money will be awarded to programs that best meet the demand for job training skills. Grant renewals will be based on how well the programs place people in jobs. Act 907 outlines the authority of 10 regional boards composed of local industry leaders and whose recommendations will be factored into policy and funding decisions. The act also sets out the responsibilities of the Workforce Development Board, which will oversee job training for people who have a harder time finding jobs and who have to rely on food stamps or welfare. The board also will oversee job training for young people and workers who have been laid off. The governor said that about $17 million will be available for grants to job training programs that meet the new standards. ABLE Accounts for People Disabilities People with disabilities will not lose their eligibility for government services if they open new savings accounts under a state plan known as the “Achieving a Better Life Experience” program. It is labeled ABLE, for short. Money placed in the ABLE accounts will not count on their assets tests for government assistance. This prevents a problem that some Arkansans with disabilities had faced, which was that they risked being disqualified for services because they had accumulated too much money. One advocate said that in order to qualify for government services, people with disabilities were forced to remain poor. The ABLE accounts can accept up to $14,000 and will be exempt from federal and state taxes. House Bill 1239, approved during the 2015 legislative session, authorized the new accounts and implemented in Arkansas new federal guidelines enacted last year.
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BY STAte REPRESENTATIVE NATE BELL I’ve been approached by quite a few people about the possibility of running for a 4th term as your state representative. During my first campaign in 2010, I promised my wife and our daughters that if they would allow me to serve for 3 terms, I would not seek additional elected office. Phyllis, Tori, and Hannah have supported me despite the financial hardships, loss of privacy, and other considerations that go along with service in the legislature and I am forever grateful to them for allowing me the flexibility necessary for me to be a part of Arkansas’s state government for the past 4 ½ years. The 2016 campaign season will begin in just a few short months and although I’ve already made it clear to those who know me, I want to publicly announce to everyone in District 20 that I will not be seeking re-election and will be leaving elected office in January of 2017 when the 91st General Assembly convenes. It’s time for someone else to step forward. It has been the highlight of my life to serve as your representative. We’ve made a lot of positive changes in government that will benefit our state for generations and I’m proud that I could be a part of beginning the shift away from a steadily expanding bureaucracy and towards a more pro-liberty and less hassle state government. I’m looking forward to continuing to work for you for the next year and a half but I’m also looking forward to returning to a quieter, simpler and less stressful way of life at the conclusion of this term. I want to once again thank you for the confidence you have placed in me by electing me by overwhelming margins three times. I’ve done my absolute best to honor that trust, to give you my best efforts every day and to leave Arkansas as a better place to live, work and raise a family. History will decide the value of those efforts. Thanks again for the opportunity to be your voice in Little Rock.
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Page 13
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
BY U.S. SENATOR JOHN BOOZMAN WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement after President Obama announced the framework agreement between P5+1 and Iran. “A nuclear armed Iran would be a threat to the United States, our allies and the world as a whole. No option should be taken off the table to ensure that Iran never achieves its goal of becoming a nuclear power. Certainly a diplomatic resolution to this problem is in everyone’s best interest, but it must be one that is fully enforceable and verifiable to be successful. We are just now learning about this framework and it is imperative that it be fully vetted. What little that has been made public reinforces the concern that the Obama Administration gave up on efforts to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program in hopes of merely containing it. The heavy reliance on placing trust in the regime in Tehran— which has never been forthcoming about the true extent of its nuclear program, actively supports terrorism and works diligently to destabilize the region—does not lend much hope for an agreement of this nature working. Congress now has an opportunity to see in detail what the Administration has been negotiating behind closed doors. We must also have an opportunity to weigh in on it. This is why I support the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015, which would require congressional review of a nuclear deal if one is reached by June 30. ”
Ouachita River SCHOOL DISTRICT
Acorn Elementary School Kindergarten Registration and School Choice April 13-30, 2015 Please bring the following documents to enroll your child in Kindergarten for the 2015-16 school year: • Birth Certificate • Immunization Record • Social Security Card • Kindergarten Physical
Public School Choice Announcement This is a public announcement. Public school choice in Arkansas allows students to attend a public school in a district other than the one in which they reside. Applications much be postmarked or delivered to the Superintendent of Schools no later than May 1, 2015 for a child to be able to enroll for the fall semester. Students who have been accepted and enrolled in previous years do not have to reapply, as approved transfers remain valid for as long as the student attends that public school.
The Pursuit of Happiness
OPINION
Boozman Statement on Announcement of Iran Nuclear Deal Framework
BY MICHEAL REISIG I can hardly believe the number of people I run into who tell me how unhappy they are, here in America, the land of opportunity – the land of plenty – the land of “ if you don’t have something, just complain loud enough and we’ll give it to you.” Mostly this is because the new America has redefined the term, “happiness.” It used to mean, in my father’s time, to be content with a roof over your head, a job, and a family that cared about you. But today, happiness and contentment are not about a place in your head – they’re about things. We have quit trying to define our own contentment and we have fallen victim to what the stupid box(s) tells us contentment is. We have given up the pursuit of happiness for the pursuit of recognition – for acceptance – into whatever tribe it is in which we wish to belong. It’s time we quit playing the victim card, it’s time we stopped making excuses, and it’s time we stopped letting society tell us how to live. If you’ll look back, say to the days of drive-in movies, our heroes were all unique individuals – they didn’t dress like everyone else, they never wore their ball caps on backwards (still the stupidest %^$^%$ thing I’ve ever seen), they didn’t need to adopt someone else’s jargon, or movements – they knew who they were. That’s why they were the heroes. It’s never too late to become your own hero. Life is not about creating yourself – it’s about discovering yourself, and when you do that, you’ll discover the byproduct is happiness. If you don’t like something in your life, change it. There are no rules in the game of happiness. If you don’t like your job, quit. Step off that cliff and build your wings on the way down. If you don’t have enough time, give up the stupid box, put away your Gameboy, and find a hobby that expands rather than atrophies your brain and your body. Travel often – see the world, so that you actually understand it. Take chances, don’t be afraid to get lost – some of the greatest happiness is found in accomplishment and the conquering of your own fears. You have to avidly pursue happiness. It rarely walks up and bangs on your door (unless it’s Publisher’s Clearing House). Most importantly, don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Protect and cherish your dreams – they’re like flowers – without being fed and watered they will expire. Most importantly, remember that contentment is not actually achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness. It’s actually a byproduct of effort and achievement in numerous other activities. One day you’ll look around – at your friends, and family, and your business accomplishments, and you’ll find yourself smiling. You’ll realize then, where the pursuit of happiness has taken you. I’ll leave you with a quote by Benjamin Franklin: “The U.S. Constitution doesn’t guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself.”
#LOL
The Helper A pastor is walking down the street one day when he notices a very small boy trying to press a doorbell on a house across the street. However, the boy is very small and the doorbell is too high for him to reach. After watching the boys efforts for some time, the pastor moves closer to the boy’s position. He steps smartly across the street, walks up behind the little fellow and, placing his hand kindly on the child’s shoulder leans over and gives the doorbell a solid ring. Crouching down to the child’s level, the pastor smiles benevolently and asks, “And now what, my little man?” To which the boy replies, “Now we run!”
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April 15, 2015
Upcoming Town Hall Meetings
Weekly Publication
(CONCLUSION)
NEWS
lican Meeting on Monday, April 13. Godfrey said the first of the two meetings will take place in Cove on April 20, and the second will take place at the Polk County Jail on April 27. Godfrey said that visitors will be able to tour the jail at the second meeting so that current issues can be seen first hand. During his presentation to the Polk County Republican Party, Godfrey explained some of those current issues and why, if a new jail is not constructed, that the current facility will be shut down by the state. Godfrey explained that the current jail is 35 years old and was built to hold only 26 people. Pointing out overcrowding issues, Godfrey said, “In 2014, we averaged 39 people a day in the jail with another 10 out on ankle monitors.” He explained situations where some criminals are allowed to remain free simply because there is not a place to put them. Being unable to segregate inmates is a huge concern with the state, citing that not only should males and females be segregated but also violent/non-violent, misdemeanor/felony, sex offenders must be segregated and often times medical cases, such as those infected with certain diseases must also be segregated. “When we can’t segregate, we are opening ourselves up for a lawsuit,” said Godfrey. Other warnings given from the state have been that there is no exercise yard and no Halon suppression system above the four-burner cook stove that is used to cook inmate meals. Also, there are no exterior doors in the west wing. “If there’s a fire in the kitchen, we have no way to get them out,” said Godfrey. Sheriff Godfrey also gave examples of what would happen if the taxes to build the new jail don’t pass with voters on May 12. “We would only jail violent felons and could only jail them in other counties such as Sevier, Scott, Garland, and Howard Counties.” Sheriff Godfrey explained that there are three court days a week and the process of bringing inmates from where they are jailed to court and back takes valuable deputies out of the county for hours at a time and leaves the county vulnerable. “Say we put 10 inmates in different jails, every time we have court, an officer will have to drive to that jail, bring the inmate to court, and if the judge decides to keep them, the officer has to transport them back to that jail. Every time an officer arrests someone for battery, a deputy will have to transport that prisoner to another county. That is time that you do not have officers on the street. If I only have two deputies on shift and one is transporting a prisoner, that leaves one officer to cover the county. If he is on a call in Cherry Hill and a call comes in from Wickes, we’re just in trouble.” As the Pulse reported, the site for the proposed jail was announced at Polk County Quorum Court in March. Deputy Sheriff Scott Sawyer presented the plan to the Court and stated that land has been found and upon voter approval of the ¼ and ¾ cent sales and use taxes, the new jail will be constructed on property behind Papa’s Mexican Café. The new jail will be built so that no prisoners will be seen by the public with a sally port system in place and solid walls being built around the outside exercise yard. “We have the perfect opportunity right now; the rates on bonds are low, we have a County Judge that has a good construction background that can help oversee that and help us with the development of it, and we have the support of the City of Mena,” said Godfrey. He added, “If I could buy a used jail that would fit 100 people and have it dropped in Polk County, I would. I don’t need a new jail, I just need one that will hold 100 people and I need it to meet minimum state standards, I need it to be safe, and I need it to be secure. I’m not about having a brand new jail, I’m about keeping Polk County safe.” After a previous meeting, The Pulse asked Sheriff Godfrey about critics who advocate the use of the former Mena Middle School building located across Mena Street from the courthouse. Godfrey explained that he is not even aware of a construction company that would retrofit an existing building to match state requirements and if there were, Godfrey said, he suspected it would be cost prohibitive due to the concrete construction of the building. “They would have to be busting out concrete for plumbing lines, electric lines…and in the end, you would still have spent millions on a building that is over 60 years old.” The town hall meetings are scheduled for Monday, April 20, at 7 p.m. in Cove City Hall and at Polk County Jail on Monday, April 27, at 7 p.m.
April 15, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
April 15, 2015
April 15 , 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
TALIMENA 13.1 THE RESULTS...
2015 RELAY 13 PERSON TEAM RESULTS 1st – Mena Bearcats 2nd – Sterling Machinery 3rd – MRHS Pacemakers 4th – Union Bank of Mena 5th - Queen Wilhelmina State Park 6th – Pulse 7th – PCDC
2015 RELAY 4 PERSON TEAM RESULTS 1st – Jack & Copes 2nd – Non-Stop Fitness/Fitage
OVERALL MALE 1st -Kendal Repass 2nd – B J Johnson 3rd Tim Skimmer
MALES CATEGORY WINNERS 19 & UNDER: Clint Buck 25 – 29: Chris Ledbetter 30-34: Shawn Blickenstaff 40-44: 1st –Tom Brennan 2nd – David Meroney 3rd – Mike Harrison 45-49: 1st – George Haney 2nd – Kenneth Butler 3rd – Danny Butler 50 -54 1st – Robert Crawford 2nd – Ken Sayers 55-59: Wylie Luther 60-64 1st – Earl Rutter 2nd – George McDonald OVER 70 1st-- Chris Biagini 2nd – Greg Bourns
OVERALL FEMALE 1st – Sara Blickenstaff 2nd – Emily Emerson 3rd – April Wurtz FEMALES CATEGORY WINNERS 19 & UNDER 1at – Angelina Moe 2nd – Christanna Moe 3rd – Jessia Moe 25 –29: Kylynn Ledbetter 30 –34: Mandy Grammer 35 – 39 1st – Hope Sharp 2nd – Casey Hines 40 –44 1st – Rebecca Gartner 2nd – Doris Winlock 3rd – Michelle Baker 45-49 1st – Joan Rendon 2nd – Christine Meroney 3rd – Tammie Cannady 60 – 64: Tina Bentley 65 – 69: Betty Sobeski
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CITIZEN
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Tommy Stueart - To Protect & Serve
BY JACLYN ROSE
Senior Corporal Tommy Stueart has given his life to full time civil service. Born and raised outside of Murfreesboro, Arkansas, Stueart knew from a young age that he wanted to wear a uniform. He enlisted in the United States Air Force his senior year of high school through the delayed enlistment program. “Right after I joined the Air Force I knew I wanted to get into law enforcement so I became a Law Enforcement Specialist. I patrolled the air base just like a civilian patrol man does,” explained Stueart. After his initial training, Stueart was sent to a remote satellite base in Turkey where he served a year before moving to Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico. There he served for eight years and two months into his time when he met his wife, Cindi. They married after a couple months of dating and will celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary this year. “It’s so important to be good friends with your spouse, and we are good friends. We have a daughter, Sonja, and a grandson, Calvin Ayres, who graduates from Acorn High School this spring,” said Stueart. Stueart had ambitions to serve with the Arkansas State Police but when his initial enlistment with the Air Force was over, they were in the middle of a hiring freeze, so instead he re-enlisted and was stationed in Tokyo, Japan. After a very nice tour, Stueart was discharged in 1979 and he moved his family back to Arkansas where he served at the Texarkana, Arkansas Police Department until the Arkansas State Police lifted their hiring freeze in 1985. Stueart began his career with the Arkansas State Police in Little River County, where he worked until transferring to Pine Bluff. In 1999 he was transferred to Polk County, where he worked until his retirement on April 1, 2015. “I have never known any life besides a badge and a gun since I was 18 years old. I have never experienced adult civilian life until April 1 of this year. I am going to miss the camaraderie the most. The people I work with are the very best. The state police, the local police, the Polk County Sherrif’s Office and the Federal guys, we are all one big family. I also have to say that Rex Smart is one of the finest people I’ve ever known. He was a great influence on me early in my childhood when he served as ‘The Trooper.’ I’m thankful for his service,” Stueart said. Stueart’s wife, Cindi, plans on retiring soon from her career as a driver’s license examiner for the Arkansas State Police and the couple plan to enjoy their retirement in Polk County. “We love Polk County and plan to be here for the duration. I love the area and the little known secret that Arkansas has mountains. The people are wonderful and it just feels like home. As for my retirement, well, I have a long ‘honey do list’ and a lot of home projects I plan to tackle,” said Stueart with a smile.
“W
e love Polk County and plan to be here for the duration. I love the area and the little known secret that Arkansas has mountains. The people are wonderful and it just feels like home.”
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April 15, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 19
Page 20
April 15, 2015
CALENDAR
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
Hall. * 7:00 p.m. – Polk County Genealogy Society meeting at the Polk County Library, 410 8th Street. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Highway 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 2164606. Friday 4/17 * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Writer’s Guild meeting in the Mena Art Gallery classroom. * 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting - 812 Hwy 71South, Mena. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Saturday 4/18 * 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 Scholarship Fundraiser Breakfast. Get an old fashion country breakfast at the Lodge on 701 Port Arthur Street, Mena, for donation only, to support the scholarship program. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Young Artists Class, Gilda Meyers will be teaching a fun project called Shaving Cream Card for children ages 13 to 17. There is a $2 fee per child for cost of supplies. Call 479-3943880 to schedule your child. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena, For info, call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Sunday 4/19 * 10:00 a.m. – Christ’s Church, Cove, AR will be celebrating 35 years as a congregation with Gilbert and Barbara Forrest and The Texans. Everyone Welcome. * 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S. For information call 3947396 or 216-4606. * 3:00 p.m. A.B.A.T.E. (Arkansas Bikers Aiming Towards Education) monthly meeting at the Lime Tree Restaurant. Officers meeting at 2:30; general meeting at 3:00. You don’t have to ride to attend or
become a member. Non Profit organization. For more information, contact Jim Laing 243-3037. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall Monday 4/20 * 5:00 p.m. – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), Hatfield City Hall. For more information call 870-389-6678. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo, American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 6:00 p.m. – FREE Weightloss Warriors – First National Bank across from Depot. For information call 437-3560. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church, Everyone is welcome to attend. * 7:00 p.m. – Ouachita Beekeepers Association monthly meeting at Union Bank. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – 12 +12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 2164606. Tuesday 4/21 * 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission will be open in the 9th Street Ministries building. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. –“Art Day”, Mena Art gallery, 607 Mena Street. Bring your current project and join other artists working in the classroom at the gallery. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – FREE Delicious Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen, Mena Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk Rd 43 (Fairground Road), Mena,, 479-394-7404. Take –out is available. All are welcome! * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters in Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:30 p.m. – Art Awareness Presentation. Susan Sebren will be showing steps involved in creating a Paper Mache piece. Mena Art Gallery 607 Mena Street.. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S, Mena.
* 4:00 p.m. Today – Arkansas Geologist Sandra Chandler presents Arkansas Rocks and Minerals, Cove Branch Library. * 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. April 25 – Local Christian Motorcyclists Association chapter The Home Front Warriors annual yard sale for missions, Old Car Quest lot on Hwy 71 North. * Mena Head Start is taking applications for FALL enrollment for preschool children 3-5 and Early Head Start Children, birth – 3. The program is free to those who qualify. For an application, come by Mena Head Start at 606 Pine Avenue, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. For more information, call 479-437-3733. * 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Jr OLT Auditions for Charlotte’s Web, April 27, 28, and 30. Every Monday 3:30 – 5:00 pm, learn American Sign Language for free, Cove Branch Library with teacher Casey Kelley. Every Thursday 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.Learn to knit or crochet with teachers Patricia Ruskauff and Mollie Thomas, Cove Branch Library.
BEATS
Thursday 4/16 * 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Polk County/ Mena meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 216-3383 or Charles Pitman at 2164882 for more info. * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters In Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:30 p.m. – Polk County Cancer Support Group meeting at the Polk County Library, 410 8th Street. * 5:30 p.m. - Weight Watchers - meet at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. * 6:00 p.m. – We The People Tea Party meets at the Polk County Library in the North Room,. All are welcome. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous – meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish
Weekly Publication
* 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. For information 479-234-2887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday 4/22 * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – Book Study, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606.
Check out our online calendar of events at
MyPulseNews.com
Page 21
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication Paul Headings • 479-234-7553
3855 Hwy 88 E, Mena, Arkansas 71953
• • • • • •
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The James K. Polk Chapter of the Daughters of the Amercian Revolution - Keeping History Alive
ORGANIZATION
Quality Construction
by jaclyn rose The James K. Polk Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is a group of women with a direct bloodline to an ancestor that aided in achieving AmeriYour Satisfaction is Our Goal can Independence. These women meet once a month, for nine months out of the year, September through May, and work to preserve history in general, as well as the importance of women in history. The current local chapter of this national organization was chartered in December of 2009. However, a previous chapter with the same name had a local presence from 1937-1974. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a national group that was founded in 1890 and is headquartered in Washington D.C. There are 177,000 members in 3,000 chapters across the United States and internationally. Their motto is God, Home and Country and any woman who is at least 18 years of age, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, but that can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership. The James K. Polk Chapter was named after the 11th President of the United States and is a small chapter with 31 members. Locally they sponsor an essay contest, for graduating seniors, Manufacturer that has a first place price of $100 and a second place prize of $50. For this contest, students are 811 4th Street, Mena of Quality CNC Parts or 479-385-1085 not allowed to use any source of reference, with the ex- Mon.-Fri.479-385-2136 8:30 am - 5 pm • Sat. 8:30 am - 1 pm 479.394.4248 ception of a dictionary to check for spelling, they must “...I love that this gives us instead use their own knowledge. The local DAR also 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344 an actual connection to our contributes to the Marine Corps League Scholarship Fund. national history. I can Another area the DAR serves in Polk County is by “Serving your families with to pay final respects to military veterans. Essay, hey, my ancestor helped helping pecially in cases where the veteran has outlived their Dignity & Care for over 80 years” Funeral & Life Insurance Agent make this country what it is, family or their family is not in good health. They will Selected Member of the National Funeral stand a flag line at the entrance to the cemetery or the Directors Assoc. 703 F Hwy. 71 North it makes history come alive chapel. 611 Janssen, Mena, AR Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-1310 (479) 394-7766 and provides a “The ladies who are eligible for membership in DAR are not just ancestors of American Revolution personal connection.” Soldiers but anyone who worked toward our freedom, those who cooked for the soldiers or possibly provided a place for people to hide until the British got through town. Any connection to a patriot is accepted. I love that this gives us an actual connection to our national history. I can say, hey, my ancestor helped make this country what it is, it makes history Repairs done come alive and provides a personal connection,” explained Kathy Hagler, 1st Vice Regent for the in your home. James K. Polk Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Open 7 Days Bruce Erickson, Owner The DAR is always looking for new membership and anyone interested is welcome to ata Week tend a meeting, or contact Hagler at 479.216.9041. They will hold their next monthly meeting on Like us on Facebook! Wednesday, April 15, at the Union Bank Community Room.
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Page 22
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
April 15, 2015
ATTENTION Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles . . . Congratulate your graduate in the Pulse’s Special
FULL COLOR Section saluting these students and their accomplishments! Publication Date: May 13 Information & payment Must be Received NO LATER THAN MONDAY, MAY 4
Salute Your 2015 Graduate in the CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW!
Polk County Pulse 479-243-9600 Stop by 1168 Hwy 71 South, Mena or email to ads@polkcountypulse.com
Congr a Rachetulations Class l Buck We ar of 2015 e so p of you roud Love, Your F! amily EX
AMPL E
Page 23
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Christy Pruitt and Rusty Level, of Hatfield, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on April 3rd. Megan and Stephen Bass, of Waldron, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on April 3rd. Melanie Priest and Johnathan Libby, of Oden, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on April 4th. Erica Snider, of Dierks, is the proud mother of a baby girl, born on April 7th. Dedra and Kevin Poor, of Waldron, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on April 9th.
Welcome Baby Roman Angelica and Josh Waid, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby boy named Roman Eli-D. Waid, born on April 8th at U.A.M.S. He weighed 4 pounds 3 ounces and was 16 inches long. Proud siblings are Shaun and Cruxion. Grandparents are Terry and Lisa Cabello and Glenda and Brian Waid.
FAMILY
POLK COUNTY BIRTHS AT MENA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEMS
Coverstones Celebrate 70 Years of Marriage Dean and Jean Coverstone celebrated 70 years of marriage on April 8, 2015 with a dinner party at the Cherry Hill Café. Their son Randy of Newark, CA was unable to attend, however, their sons, Dino, of Syracuse, IN and Terry from Citrus Springs, FL were in attendance along with 24 members of the Cherry Hill United Methodist Church Wednesday night Bible study group. After the meal, each person told about where they had first met their spouse. A total of 662 years of marriage! All sang ‘Blest Be the Tie That Binds’ and a good time was had by all!
CUTEST PET PIC
Angus Crider
Angus Crider enjoying the sunshine. He is the son of Rodger and Cyndie Crider. Please share your favorite photo of your pet. You may drop it off or mail it to: The Polk County Pulse | 1168 Hwy 71 S, Mena, AR 71953 or email: classifieds@polkcountypulse.com
This week’s Cutest Pet Pic made possible by your friends at:
Gift Registry Amber Looney Brigetta Super & Dalton Standridge & Kylan Rakestraw 4/4/15 5/24/15 Whitney Young Manda Ham & Jordan Tatum & Kyle Jewell 4/18/15 (shower) 5/30/15 Alyssa Hunt Lizbeth Lopez & Wesley Seals & Leland M. Wiederhoeft 4/25/15 6/6/15 Hailee Graves Leigha Smith & Kyle Rutherford & Damon Newman 5/2/15 6/6/15 Brittney Miner Natalie Rose & Jeff Battenfield & Jake Ledbetter 5/9/15 6/20/15 Kelly Anderson Ashley Philpot & Peter Gandy & Colby Kennedy 5/16/15 6/20/15 Tara Lynn Warrington Darian Kinsey & Ethan Garrett Davis & Brett Shockley 5/23/15 7/18/15 Taylor Cheyenne Smith Emily Herod & Caleb Sebo & Logan McCourtney 5/23/15 7/25/15
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Page 24
SCHOOL
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
County School’s Third Nine Weeks Honor Roll Wickes Elementary
1ST GRADE: All As - Diego Alvarado, James Davis, Aspen Johnson, Bobbi Kelly, Connor McCormick, Eli Stark, Kenya Antunez, Vanessa Flores, Gerardo Gonzalez, Jayden Perez, Jhovani Perez, Abby Pinon, Tony Weinert, Raylee Youngblood, Thomas Goethals, Garrett Hennings, Diana Munoz, Nathan White, Madalynn Benning, Grayson Farringer. As & Bs - Rocibel Delgado, Ulysses Lopez, MacKenzie Molina, Dafne Avila, Fernando Cortes, Montana Higgins, Mairene Ruiz, Raul Rodriguez, Nathaniel Trinidad, William Ambriz, Ingreet Martinez, Viviana Ruiz, Sydney Sparks, Josilyn Harrelson, Sulem Lopez, Kylea Skaggs, Jose Ruiz, Leslie Esquivel, Mairany Marrufo, Addison Watkins, Diego Garcia, Natalie Delgado, Addison Watkins. 2ND GRADE: All As: Gustavo Cortes, Avenlei Bush, Easton Johnson, Rocio Ruiz, Marlenne Cecilio, Edwin Trinidad, Kendra Andrews. As & Bs - Cory Diaz, Vanessa Gomez, Brenna Roper, Santiago Maya, Sharis Campuzano, Joyce Antunez, Sabera Land, Nahomi Ruiz, Maria Perez, Sholeyve Campuzano, Cooper Price, Nadelyn Ruiz, Braden Thomas, Heidi Turnbough, Zachary McCormick, Bradley Thomas, Alyssa Hackney, Kevin Aguilar, David Ortiz, Jaylee Pollard. 3rd GRADE: All As - Mallory Farringer, Ethan Youngblood, Karah Salgado, Emanuel Trinidad, Madison Linker. As & Bs - Hazael Cordova, Annabelle Dixon, Landrey Richardson, Lacy Floyd, Issak Trinidad, Aylin Ortega, Brandon Moreno, Spencer Hammer, Jonathon Gonzalez, Sherlyn Brito. 4th GRADE: All As - Grant Stark. As & Bs - Brayton Flournoy, Breonna Cecil, Ale Rodriguez, Lucas Trinidad, Kyla Ferguson, Kayla Cary, Ricardo Esquivel, Ashley Castro, Reagan Bills. 5th GRADE: All As - Pate Taylor, Rendi Warren. As & Bs - Brycelynn Raines, Marissa Hammer, Trayton Johnston, Shanell Brito, Baylee Davis, Alyssa Wilson, Cole Brantley, Shelby Brewster, Kelcy Frachiseur, Laura Flores, Jacob Richardson, Kalli Smith, Labrayla Robb. 6th GRADE: All As - Leticia Aguilar, Dulce Gonzalez. As & Bs - Savanna White, Haley Masella, Debra Broach, Kayla Richardson, Teresa Bell, Kaylin McKee, Cori Hilton, Sosha Richardson, Nikki Cusher, Reese Driver, Edwardo Maya, Arecelia Antunez, Landrie Tadlock, Jacey Whisenhunt, Peri Smith, Blake Willis.
Vandervoort Elementary 1st GRADE: All As - Peyton Casey, Ethan Hall, Dylon Morris, Liliana Ruelas, Victoria Squires, Kaylee Thomas, Dakota Tindle. As & Bs - Gabe Bell, Michael Howard, Elijah Owens, Wyatt Gunn, Blane Brett, Jimmy Glenn, Aiden McKenzie. 2nd GRADE: All As - Bradley Wade, Chelsey Green, Riley Dunn, Laci Dixon, Shawn Harris, Bradley Harwood, Jayden Johnson, Kyler McKee, Elijah Smith, Jacob Squires, Aiden Wolfenberger. As & Bs - Dustin Pollard, Mattie Ross, Jalyn York, Jennifer Arce, Jasmine Wilkinson, Dillon Loving, Cloie Dollarhyde, Derek Dixon, Dani Atchley. 3rd GRADE: All As - Austin Bailey, Brodie Dickerson, Zenia Schmidt, Ethan Williams, Braylen Ralls, Ben Tooker. As & Bs - Breanna Parker, Thomas Broach, Caylynn Burke, Blake Evans, Falesha Harris, Meera Henry. 4th GRADE: All As - Christian Hoyle, Harley Loyd, Lily McIntyre, Wade Wolfenberger. As & Bs - Nathan Raney, Kendra Bell, Hunter Burke, Vivi Denton, Sadie Hall, Braylee Jewell, Hannah McLain, Nathan Watkins, Jessica Green, Kimberly Hackworth, Elizabeth Crawford, Kylie Owens, Hunter Hamm, Chyanne Brown, Connor Mink, Zachary McKee, Mia Dixon. 5th GRADE: All As - Cody Beck, Curtis Broach. As & Bs - Rilyn Gasca, Bethany Harper, Ashton Hicks, Katelynn Owens, McKenzi Summit, Tanner Williams, Shayna Bowen, Bela Diaz, Alaina Hopper, Jonny Loyd, Gracie Smith, Winnie Smith. 6th GRADE: All As - Ali Austin, Kadi Dixon, Melanie Dixon, Betty Jewell, Abby McIntyre, Kiersten Smith. As & Bs - Shyloh Crane, Lexie Graham, Kylie Gunn, Koty Martin, Kortlyn McKee, Kelly Parker, John Sisson, Kalie Smith, Kailyn Terry, Hattie Smith
County Schools Honor Roll continuted on next page
Mena Public School’s Breakfast Monday 4/20 Super donut, yogurt, juice, fruit, milk Tuesday 4/21 Cereal, toast, diced pears, juice, milk Wednesday 4/22 French toast sticks, sausage link, peaches, milk Thursday 4/23 Breakfast bar, bread, fruit, juice, milk Friday 4/24 Poptart, fruit, juice, milk Mena Public School’s Lunch Monday 4/20 Main: Taco soup, crackers, whole grain oatmeal cookie, broccoli, sliced pears, milk; Choice: Burrito w/ cheese sauce, lettuce, tomato, whole grain oatmeal cookie, broccoli, sliced pears, milk Tuesday 4/21 Main: Stromboli, garden spinach salad, baby carrots, strawberries, milk; Choice: Pizza, garden spinach salad, baby carrots, strawberries, milk Wednesday 4/22 Main: Country style beef patty, mashed potatoes, gravy, steamed broccoli, oatmeal roll, banana, milk; Choice: Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, gravy, steamed broccoli, oatmeal roll, banana, milk Thursday 4/23 Main: Turkey & cheese sub sandwich, french fries, lettuce, tomato, peaches, milk; Choice: Mini corndogs, french fries, lettuce, tomato, peaches, milk Friday 4/24 Main: Hot dog, baked beans, pickle spear, Fritos, oatmeal cookie, orange smiles, milk; Choice: BBQ pork on bun, baked beans, pickle spear, Fritos, oatmeal cookie, orange smiles, milk Acorn School’s Breakfast Monday 4/20 Morning sausage roll, fruit, juice, milk Tuesday 4/21 Muffins, fruit, juice, milk Wednesday 4/22 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk Thursday 4/23 Pancake on a stick, fruit, juice, milk Friday 4/24 Super bun, fruit, juice, milk Acorn School’s Lunch Monday 4/20 Chicken sandwich, french fries, lettuce & tomato, tropical fruit, milk Tuesday 4/21 BBQ on a bun, baked beans, coleslaw, peaches, milk Wednesday 4/22 Oven fried chicken, sweet potatoes, green beans, roll, applesauce, milk Thursday 4/23 Chicken crispito, broccoli, tossed salad, pineapple tidbits, salsa, milk Friday 4/24 Pepperoni pizza, tossed salad, assorted fruit, milk Cossatot River School’s Breakfast Monday 4/20 Muffin, applesauce, orange juice, milk Tuesday 4/21 Breakfast burrito, craisins, apple juice, milk Wednesday 4/22 Cereal, apple wedges, cherry juice, milk Thursday 4/23 Biscuit & gravy, pineapple, orange juice, milk Friday 4/24 Super Donut, orange wedges, apple juice, milk Cossatot River School’s Lunch Monday 4/20 Chicken noodle soup w/ crackers, cheese toast, tossed salad w/ dressing, peaches, milk Tuesday 4/21 Hamburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, french fries, mandarin oranges, cookie, milk Wednesday 4/22 Pork roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, blackeyed peas, fruit cocktail, roll, milk Thursday 4/23 Chicken Fajita, lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa, pinto beans, pears, milk Friday 4/24 Sub Sandwich, lettuce, tomato, pickles, broccoli w/ dressing, corn, strawberries/bananas, milk
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Page 25
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Honor Roll
2nd Grade: All As – Rylee Belcher, Christian Christiana, Sydney Holliday, Bradley McEntire, Rebecca Moore, Kayleigh Noble, Tyler Pippen, Hailee Shores, Damon Cruz, Tara Hart, Zach Neugent, Paige Smedley, Caden Tarkinton, Lucas Tunnell, David Warren, Arayah Wharton, Evan Yu. As & Bs – Kailee Branson, Kohlea Carmack, Duncan Dill, Timothy Hopper, Aiden Kimp, Gabrial Lickly, Kaden Dehart, MaryClaire Laing, Emma Long, Amy May, Konnor Odom, McKenna Pippen, Paul Puckett, James Sullivan. 3rd Grade: All As – Kora Carter, Daisy Dollar, Lucas Parnell, Nichole Philpot, Kensey Rosson, Kenzie Daniels, Payton Davis, Randy Dill, Sara Pippen, Sophie Strasner, Christina Velasquez, Rylee Wiles. As & Bs – Payge Adaway, Laila Billings, Coy Brumbleow, Elizabeth Duvall, Noah Holland, Audrey Holliday, Joshua Noble, Trinity Staggs, Sarah Tedder, Cadyn Wade. 4th Grade: All As – Kealin Harding, Westin Johnson, Gavin Strother, Racheal Miller, Braven Rodgers, Jayden Willborg. As & Bs – Johnathan Bodkin, Zacharie Bodwell, Ryle Cole, Charish Hill, Clayton Hobbs, Olivia Maechler, Reed McGee, Lori Richardson, Makayla Sandoval, Dakota Sullivan, Faith Tipton, Colton Tipton, Rebekah Tipton, Lucas Watts, Rachael Weddle. 5th Grade: All As – Faith Brandon, Kyla Kimp, Kiersten Larucci, Jake Lyle, Abby Nance, Raeghan Weddle. As & Bs – Michael Auces, Adrianna Bates, Emily Blair, Keaton Davis, Lexi Dilbeck, Angela Duvall, Tori Hackney, Alivia Harper, Trace Huff, Reece Rogers, River Rogers, Caleb Reynolds, Zephan Stevens, Ethan Sutherland, Joshua Tilley, Skyllar Wade, Austin Wagner.
SCHOOL
Acorn Elementary
CONT. FROM PAGE 24)
Mena FCCLA Travel to UCA
Magness Earns Certificate
Gabrielle Magness, a 12th grade student at Acorn, passed her Microsoft Office Specialist exam in PowerPoint 2010. She has earned all 4 Microsoft Office Specialist certificates which include Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint 2010.
On March 31 the Mena FCCLA chapter traveled to the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas for the State Leadership Conference. Members/Advisors in attendance were Carissa Gordon, Leea Carver, and Mrs. Kristi Wilson. The Arkansas Rice Depot was on site and MHS, as well as other schools, donated diapers and non perishable food to the Depot. At the Leadership Conference fellow FCCLA members and advisors from across the state were honored for their efforts to better their communities and make a difference in their schools. FCCLA scholarships and Adult Awards and Achievements were given to students and adults who went above and beyond their call of duty for the betterment of FCCLA. The keynote speaker for the conference was Mrs. Harriet Turk whose message was appropriately titled, “Just Get Up and Move.” Her spark, charisma, and overall optimism left the students and adults in attendance with a positive attitude and outlook on their futures. Her core message was, “This ain’t yo dream!” which she cleverly elaborated by stating that in order to achieve success and follow your dreams you mustn’t let anyone bring you down or try to belittle you and always stay true to you. Overall, it was a very positive leadership conference. Members also toured the University of Central Arkansas campus and enjoyed lunch at Za Za’s located at Hendrix Village.
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Page 26
SPORTS
April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Mena Track Teams Proving Hard Work Gets Big Results
BY MELANIE BUCK The Mena Bearcat Boy’s Track Team competed well at the Mansfield Tiger Relays. Zach Jewell finished as the overall high-point winner for the meet. Anthony Kennedy, Clint Buck, Cody Reid, Jackson Daugherty, Heath Schnell, and Caleb Ward all placed in various events throughout the meet. On Tuesday, April 7th, The boy’s were near full strength and competed very well in the Booneville Bearcat Relays finishing runner-up with 96 overall points as a team. Zach Jewell was once again the overall high-point winner with 40 points. Zach won first place in long jump, triple jump, 100-meter dash, and 200-meter dash. “Zach is a very talented young man who is turning some heads across the state,” said Head Track Coach Aaron Pennington. D’wayne Grinder placed in the 300 and 110 hurdles with a strong showing. Caleb Ward placed 8th in the shotput and continues to get better and better. Clint Buck won 1st place in the 3200-meter run and 2nd place in the 1600-meter run, and Cody Reid finished 5th in the 3200-meter run. “Clint and Cody have been working very hard since January trying to improve their distance times, and the results are showing. They keep improving each meet,” said Pennington. The 4x800 meter relay team consisting of Landon Stidman, Clint Buck, Cody Reid, and Anthony Kennedy placed first-place and competed very well for the win. Pennington said, “I was very proud of that group because they really came together and ran a very good race. As the season progresses, these guys are getting better and better. It is a process, and as the guy’s continue to work, the possibilities are endless.” The Mena Bearcat Girls are also showing promise with their team this season. At the Mansfield Tiger Relays, Sara Hamalanien placed 1st in 100-meter dash, 2nd in 400-meter dash; Jacquelyn Johnson placed 5th in 400-meter dash; Abbie Smith placed 2nd in 800-meter run, 1st in 1600-meter run, and 1st in the 3200-meter run. The girls’ relay teams placed 2nd in the 4x400 meter relay with runners Marley Jones, Sara Hamalainen, Keeley Jones, and Jacquelyn Johnson. The 4x800 meter relay team consisting of Evelyn Smith, Abbie Smith, Samantha England, and Taylor Harper took 1st place. The 4x100 meter relay team took 5th place with Jacquelyn Johnson, Marley Jones, Macy Baucom, and Keeley Jones. At Booneville, Abbie Smith took 1st and 2nd place, respectively, in the 1600-meter run and the 3200-meter run; Macey Baucom placed 5th in 100-meter dash; Evelyn Smith placed 3rd in 800-meter run; and the 4x800meter relay team took 1st place with runners Evelyn Smith, Abbie Smith, Samantha England, and Taylor Harper. With the 2nd place win for the Bearcat boys’ team at Booneville, they received their first ever track trophy to hang in the high school among other sports accolades.
Hendricks Signs Letter of Intent
Publications
has a Locally Owned
From Mena...we are located 1 mile down 88 East past Pitchford’s Animal Clinic. First drive past the truss shop...look for cedar post sign.
Inventory Continues to Expand!
Variety of Mulch
IN STOCK!
NOW carrying fresh ground pine bark mulch & aged, dark hardwood mulch!
COMPETITIVE DELIVERY RATES NOW Delivery & Set-Up of Large Landscape Rocks!
JOB OPPORTUNITY for YOU! The Pulse has an immediate opening for a delivery person -
Wednesday only. Route is in Mena and van is provided. Must have valid Driver's License, no traffic violations, and able to do moderate lifting.
Apply in person at The Pulse Office:
1168 Hwy 71 South.
BY MELANIE BUCK Mena Senior Bearcat Colton Hendricks signed a letter of intent Friday, April 10, to play football for Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri. Hendricks was recruited as a defensive end player. Hendricks is the son of Mike and Trina Hendricks. He is the fifth Bearcat to receive a football scholarship this year. Going from teammates to opponents, Hendricks will play against fellow Bearcat Justin Castor when they reach college play, as will Sage Kesterson as he plays against current teammates Luke Bowser and Jackson Daughtery.
April 15, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 27
Business & Finance 5 Tips to Avoid a ‘Break the Bank’ Summer Vacation
Help Your Employees Build a Better Financial Future Employee financial education benefits your entire oranization. Our no-cost program can help your employees:
(StatePoint) Vacations are good for you. But they can also be tough on the wallet. MENA | HATFIELD For more than one-third of Americans, the cost of a vacation will be one • Get answers to their financial questions & WICKES of their largest expenses in the coming year, according to Wells Fargo’s and concerns recent “How America Buys and Borrows” survey. 479-394-2211 How can you avoid vacation sticker shock? One option is sitting in your • Learn about meeting financial needs, www.unionbankofmena.com wallet, as certain credit cards offer rewards with virtually every purchase. such as retirement, education funding Here are five tips for how you can use your credit card to turn your and insurance vacation dreams into reality. • Enhance their satisfaction and loyalty • Read the terms and conditions thoroughly and understand how you through demonstrated concern for the can earn and redeem rewards. Some cards offer cash back while others benefits and retirement plan decisions offer points. Some credit cards allow customers to redeem for a variety of they face options, while other cards -- such as those offered by some airlines and hotels -- connect you to reward redemptions for their specific product. You’ll find that financial education is good Know what, if any, fees or charges occur when redeeming and whether for your employees and your business. your rewards ever expire. • Some consumers track rewards and redeem them regularly. Others Call today to get started. rarely think about them. If you fall in the second category, check your Visit us at any of our 4 locations. Ginger Sterner rewards balance. You may have earned enough rewards to offset vaca• Main Branch Financial Advisor tion costs like airfare, hotel stays or gift cards to merchants you plan on • Northside Shopping Center 501c Hwy 71 North visiting while vacationing. Alternatively, you may prefer to redeem your • Walmart Mena, AR 71953 rewards as an account credit and use the cash while traveling. • Cove 479-394-7940 • The average vacationer spends just over $1,300 for travel, including food, lodging and transportation, estimates the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By responsibly using your rewards credit card for vacation costs, rewards can add up. You can redeem them later -- perhaps, for MEMBER SIPC www.edwardjones.com 479-394-3552 next year’s vacation! • Traveling with your credit card offers a safer way to pay because if a card is lost or stolen, a quick call to your bank can stop charges to your account. In addition to rewards programs, many cards offer little known perks that may help make your travel smoother. For example, some credit cards offer 24/7 concierge services that can help you plan your trip or even make dinner reservations. Your card may also offer rental car insurance, no-fee currency conversions, competitive currency conversion rates, and travel protections like insurance for lost or damage luggage. To learn more about these benefits, read your credit card agreement. • Look for special travel offers from your rewards program. Also, check to see if your credit card offers special travel deals that come with additional rewards from specific retailers. To learn more about available offers, cardholders can typically check their rewards program website. To review Wells Fargo’s available offers, visit www.MyWellsFargoRewards.com and www.MyWellsFargoRewardsEMM.com. As you plan your vacation, keep budgeting and money management basics in mind. Be sure to let your bank know you’re going out of town, and consider using free tools -- like online banking or your bank’s mobile app -- to stay on top of your finances. That way you’ll come home refreshed, with no worries about having derailed your financial goals.
www.bearstatebank.com
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
Moments From American History McDonald’s
IN THE NEWS One Year Ago
HISTORY
BY JEFF OLSON LOCAL There is probably no other name in the restaurant industry more recognizable in America, or the 1. Four Local Schools Rank world for that matter, than that of McDonald’s. This not only is a supreme example of good business acumen and hard work, but more importantly it is a testament of how the dream and goal of Among State’s High Performing one person can not only become a reality in a free nation such as is ours, but how it can grow well Schools beyond any anticipated or even conceivable expectations. In 1954, a 52-year old salesman named Ray Kroc visited a restaurant in San Bernardino, Cali2. ARCO Receives Grant to Assist fornia. There he found a small but successful restaurant run by brothers Dick and Mac McDonald. Ouachita ATV Club at Wolf Pen He was amazed by the effectiveness of their operation, producing a small menu which focused on a limited number of items; burgers, fries and beverages which allowed them to concentrate more on Gap quality and quick service. This gave Kroc a vision for creating “McDonald’s” restaurants on a nationwide scale, so he promoted the idea to the brothers who agreed and Kroc became the first franchi3. Mena School District Considering see. Sixty years ago this week, April 15, 1955, Ray Kroc opened his first restaurant in Des Plaines, Restructuring in the Face of Illinois and the McDonald’s System, Inc., (which became McDonald’s Corporation) was created. Declining Enrollment Ray Kroc wanted to build a system that would provide food of consistently high quality and through uniform methods of preparation. He wanted to serve burgers and fries that would taste the same in Alaska as they did in Florida. This required buy-in from franchisees, suppliers and employees. His philosophy of “in business for yourself, but not by yourself” was a unique and expanded version of American NATIONAL capitalism which depended on commitment, teamwork and trust. 1. Obama, Putin Talk as Unrest Roils In 1961, Kroc bought the exclusive rights to the McDonald’s name. That same year he launched a training proEastern Ukraine gram, later called Hamburger University in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. There, franchisees and operators were trained on the proper meth“... an international ods for running a successful McDonald’s restaurant. Hamburger U 2. Study: Little hope for GOP on also had a research and development laboratory to develop new institution with over 36,000 cooking, freezing, storing and serving methods. More than 80,000 Immigrants have graduated from the program. restaurants around the world people 3. Social Security Stops Trying to The rest, as they say, is history. McDonalds has become an interin over 100 countries, includ- national institution with over 36,000 restaurants around the world in Collect on Old Debts by Seizing Tax Refunds 100 countries, including more than 13,000 in the United States. ing more than 13,000 in the over Like so many Americans, I can remember such terms and phrases United States.” as; “the Hamburgler; keep your eyes on your fries; you deserve a break today” and who can forget the famous Big Mac promotion, “Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions – on a sesame seed bun.” The Big Mac, and practically all of the new menu items over the years, was created by franchisees. Ronald McDonald entered the scene in 1963 and has been an icon ever since. It was always a milestone in small-town America when the golden arches of a McDonald’s would come to town, especially for the kids as Ronald would typically make an appearance to ceremoniously launch the popular addition to the community. Ray Kroc passed away in 1984. Shortly after his death, Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities was founded in his memory to raise funds in support of child welfare. Every time a customer pulls into the drive thru or approaches the counter of a McDonalds, Kroc’s legacy continues through the food we enjoy and in the fun the kids have in the Playland and in the Happy Meals with that surprise of a prize. Chances are - if we local folks don’t see one another at church on Sunday or at WalMart during the course of a week, it may just happen in one of the lines at McDonalds.
we are always on at
Mypulsenews.com
Page 29 Weekly Publication
WORLD SEAS: ADRIATIC • AEGEAN • ARABIAN • ARAL • BALI • BALTIC • BANDA • BEAUFORT • BERING • BISMARCK • CARIBBEAN • CASPIAN • CHINA • CORAL •
DEAD • FLORES • GREENLAND • IONIAN • IRISH • KARA • LAPTEV • MOLUKKA • NORTH • PHILIPPINE • RED • SARGASSO • SULU • TASMAN • TIMOR • YELLOW
by barbara m. tobias The Art Awareness program for April will be a presentation by Susan Sebren of how to create paper maché sculptures. It will be held at the Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street, on Tuesday, April 21, at 5:00 pm. Admission is free. Susan led one of our first classes for young artists recently, creating paper maché sculptures; everyone had such a great time that she held a second class the following week to go into it a little deeper. Many of you probably remember something about paper maché from elementary school art classes, but the medium is capable of creating much more sophisticated works. You have only to see some of Susan’s whimsical paper maché creations to realize that.
Asparagus, Considered a Delicacy Since Ancient Times
HOME & GARDEN
BY RUDI TIMMERMAN The Ouachita Little Theatre production of the musical “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” opens Thursday, April 16 at 7:30 pm. The show is being directed by OLT lifetime achievement winner, Judy Kropp. The characters are: Charlie Brown-Chris Benner, Lucy-Brandy Benner, Linus-Zane Sherrer, Sally-Paulette Sherrer, SchroederBrandon Zacharias, and Snoopy-Kelsey Wiggins. This show is great fun for the entire family, and everyone will enjoy the multimedia staging of the show. Charlie Brown plays two weekends, April 16 through April 26. Evening shows are at 7:30 pm. The Sunday shows start at 2:30 pm. There will be no show Friday, April 17. All times and prices are listed on the OLT web site, (oltmena.com). There are a number of special shows planned. Sunday, April 19, will be Nidec night with special discounts for Nidec employees. Saturday, April 24, will be Ladies Night Out. This includes a light dinner at American Artisans and, of course, the show. Reserve tickets for Ladies Night Out are available at Arvest Bank. All other shows tickets will be available at the door. Sunday, April 26, will be family day. One child will be free with every paying adult. (Season Tickets will be honored). It goes without saying that everyone is welcome every night even if the nights are indicated as being special shows.
Paper Maché with Susan Sebren
ARTS
Charlie Brown Coming This Weekend
April 15, 2015
by kim hughes, extension office agent, fcs Asparagus was first cultivated about 2500 years ago in Greece. The name is a Greek word, meaning stalk or shoot. The Greeks believed asparagus was an herbal medicine which, among other things, would cure toothaches and prevent bee stings. Second century Physician, Galen, described asparagus as “cleansing and healing.” Claims for medicinal benefits of asparagus persist to this day. The Romans became great lovers of asparagus, and grew it in high-walled courtyards. In their conquests, they spread it to the Gauls, Germans, Britains, and from there, the rest of the world. It came to the United States in the l870’s. When buying asparagus, look for closed, compact tips, smooth, round spears and a fresh appearance. Stalks should be tender almost as far down as the green extends. Due to its delicate nature, asparagus should be cooked the same day it is purchased. If you wish to keep it longer, it should be kept cold and covered. Refrigerate and use within 2 – 3 days for best quality. To maintain freshness, wrap a moist paper towel around the stem ends and place in a moisture proof wrapping, or stand upright in two inches of cold water. Asparagus is the leading supplier among vegetables of folic acid, which is necessary for blood cell formation, growth, and prevention of liver disease. Its wealth of nutrients, fiber and very low sodium and calorie content make asparagus a nutritionally wise choice for today’s health-conscious consumer. Asparagus contains only about 4 calories per spear. It also contains no fat or cholesterol, is a good source of potassium, a significant source of thiamin and vitamin B6. It is also one of the richest sources of rutin, a compound which strengthens capillary walls. There are several cooking methods for asparagus. In a saucepan or steamer, cook fresh asparagus in a small amount of boiling water until tender. Fresh asparagus will be crisp-tender in 5 to 8 minutes. Try stir-frying by cutting spears diagonally in 1/2 inch pieces, leaving tips whole. Stir-fry pieces in butter or hot oil, in a skillet or wok at medium high heat. Stir constantly until tender-crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Why not give this unusual vegetable a place at your dinner table? You might just find that it has become a favorite vegetable of yours. Fresh Parmesan Asparagus goes great with poultry or fish and is a quick vegetable for those busy nights.
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April 15, 2015
POLICE
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.
Mena Police Department April 5, 2015 A local convenience store reported a gas-skip in the amount of $61.52. Case is pending. April 6, 2015 A local woman was given a citation for using a handheld wireless telephone while driving. April 7, 2015 A local woman was charged with misdemeanor cruelty to animals after she abandoned a dog on a local street. April 8, 2015 A local woman reported that while her vehicle was at her brother’s house for repair, someone vandalized the car and stole a stereo from it. Case is under investigation. April 9, 2015 Eric Henry Margraff, 26, of Mena turned himself in on an outstanding warrant for failure-to-appear. He paid a cash bond and was released. Dennis Melvin Owens, 63, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure-to-appear. Jeffrey Dollarhyde, 27, of Mena was served an outstanding warrant for failure-topay fines and court costs. Daniel Howard, 38, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure-to-pay fines and court costs. A Mena woman reported that someone had stolen her license plate from her vehicle. Case pending. April 10, 2015 Donnie Dollarhyde, 41, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding bench warrant for violation of an order-of-protection. Gregory Don Brewer, 46, of Mena was charged with obstructing governmental operations after officers were called to a disturbance at a local residence. April 11, 2015 Ralph Tylor James, 19, of Mena was charged with driving on a suspended driver’s license. Officers responded to a call regarding domestic battery. The suspect had left the scene. An arrest is expected. Officers completed an additional seven reports and worked seven accidents. Polk County Sheriff’s Department April 6, 2015 Report of a domestic disturbance on Highway 4 West near Cove. Information has
Weekly Publication been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Christopher L. Ridley, 52, of Mena, on a Warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Report from a Hatfield woman of problems with her 17-year-old daughter led to the youth being issued a Juvenile Citation for Possession of a Firearm by a Minor. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested was Patric Warren, 35, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. April 7, 2015 Report of a disturbance on Polk 54 near Mena led to the arrest of William L. Copelin, 20, of Mena, on Charges of Assault 1st Degree, Fleeing, Reckless Driving and Possession of Intoxicating Liquor by a Minor. Arrested was Michael J. Harvey, 41, of Mena, on a Warrant for Domestic Battery 3rd Degree and Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report from complainant on Mossy Oak Lane near Mena of being harassed by an acquaintance. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Highway 375 West near Mena of a suspicious person led to the arrest of Mark A. Blehm, 22, of Mena, on a Charge of Disorderly Conduct. Arrested was John T. Lueck, 52, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. Arrested was Jason E. Tomblin, 36, of Mena, on Charges of Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License and Fleeing, and Warrants for Probation Violation and Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report of an individual being stabbed on Polk 44 near Mena led to the arrest of Rodney J. Emry, 43, of Mena, on a Charge of Battery 2nd Degree. April 8, 2015 Traffic stop on Reine Street in Mena led to the arrest of Greg D. Brewer, 46, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Pay Child Support. Arrested was Briar P. Yates, 18, of Mena, on Charges of Escape 2nd Degree and Resisting Arrest. Arrested was Lawrence V. Smith, 60, of Mena, on Charges of Fleeing and Resisting Arrest and a Warrant for Probation Violation. Also arrested was Kimberly J. Smith, 54, of Mena, on Charges of Hindering Apprehension and Obstructing Governmental Operations. Additionally arrested was Robert H. Williams, 39, of Mena, on Charges of Hindering Apprehension and Obstructing Governmental Operations. April 9, 2015 Report of suspicious activity on Polk 188 near the Acorn community. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Polk 88 near the Ink community of the break-in and theft of tools and household goods, all valued at $200.00. Investigation continues. Report from walk-in complainant of the theft of prescription medications from his vehicle. Investigation continues. Arrested was Joseph O. H. Brown, 32, of
Hatfield, on a Warrant for Violation of Suspended Imposition of Sentence. Arrested was Eric W. Thacker, 27, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. Arrested was William L. Copelin, 20, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. Report from complainant on Highway 8 West near the Shady Grove community of being threatened by an individual. Complainant refused to press charges. Arrested was Nick C. Stoicu, 39, on Charges of Possession of Meth or Cocaine with Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms. April 10, 2015 Report from complainant on Marion Street in Mena of the theft of a firearm, valued at $250.00. The firearm was later recovered. Traffic stop on Highway 71 South near Hatfield led to a Citation for Speeding and Defective Equipment being issued to Donald E. Drake, 56, of Mena. April 11, 2015 Report from complainant on Highway 71 South near Mena of the theft of a vehicle.
Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from a Hatfield woman of discovering stolen electronics, valued at $150.00. A Juvenile Citation for Theft was issued to a 12-year-old female. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Report from complainant on Polk 39 near the Potter community of an accident involving a lawn mower. Deputies responded. April 12, 2015 Report from complainant on Medlin Lane near Hatfield of $500 in damages to a door. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 224 near the Hatton community of the break-in to a shed and theft of collectibles and jewelry, totaling losses at $750.00. Investigation continues. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked two vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 25 Incarcerated Inmates; 14 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 6 are currently out of jail on
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April 15, 2015
Weekly Publication
ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID. Ad deadline is 5 p.m. on Monday. Payment is due with ad. Publishing and distributing 8,000 copies weekly. Clean & Comfortable Housing since 1969, J Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals, Hwy 71 N., Mena, 479-394-1252. TFN For Sale: Kenmore Refrigerator with ice maker. 417-342 4/15 6937 Books & Stuf, 704 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas – Open Monday-Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Check us out. 4/15 For Sale: Solid Wood Espresso Console/Sofa Table with drawer and bottom shelf. In good condition. Asking $200. TFN/INH Call or text 479-216-3091.
Experienced flatbed drivers needed. Home most weekends. Good pay. Great work environment. Local company. Must have two years recent flatbed experience. Jasper Trucking 479-243-4524 5/6
Rocky Service Center General Service on Ford Tractors & New Holland Equipment Vermeer Balers/Kuhn Mowers Bush-Hog Cutters & Mowers Tires Repaired Automotive/AG New Tires Available Oil Changes & Scheduled Maintenance on most equipment Round Baler Belts Relaced/Welding Call for Appointment
479-234-1396 Winter Hours: 9 am - 3 pm Pick up and Delivery on most equipment
I buy gold jewelry, scrap, dental and sterling silver. Also buying U.S. pre 65 Silver Coins one ounce silver and gold rounds and bars. Check with the rest, but sell to the best. Dan’s Cash-N-Gun. 100 Hwy 71 S at 1st Street, Mena. 479TFN 394-5515. J & N Dozer - Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357. TFN Wooden Decks, concrete patios, sidewalks, driveways, etc., driveway repair, install culverts, small backhoe and dump truck work. Welding and fabrication in shop and in the field. 479-394-5153 (evening) or 234-1602. 4/15 Yard Mowing, week eating, bush hogging, handyman services, power washing. Have own equipment and tools. Call 4/15 479-216-5204
Interested in Foster Parenting or Adoption? Call 479-394-3100 x 136 or apply online at www.fosterarkansas.org 4/29 New 4 wheel electric scooter with battery 4/22 and charger. Call 394-3416 Scott’s Lawn Care – Small, Medium and Large properties. Reasonable rates and Friendly service. 394-7599 or 234-3707.
CLASSIFIEDS
UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1
5/13
Inside sale, Saturday, 923 Mena Street, 10a.m. – 5 p.m. 4/15 New Items. Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair and painting. Small to medium jobs. Also lawn and garden work. 5/6 Call 870-334-2068
Custom Concrete. Specializing in Concrete, Speptic Tanks, Gravel, Backhoe, and Dump Truck Services. Over 40 yrs. 5/27 experience. Call Joe Bill Ward at 479-883-9298.
Humane Society of the Ouachitas Pet of the Week for the Week of
February 25, 2015 Ever is a mostly black kitty that is only a year old and ready to find her own home. Yes, yours would be perfect…. Ever will even let you live there with her forever. Ever is spayed, has her shots and is litterbox trained. Loving and sweet, Ever will make a great companion. And just look at that sweet face and precious white markings! Ready to adopt a kitty? Ever is ready! Give us a call. You’ll be glad you did!
OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (479) 394-5682 • WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org Publisher’s Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including the right to do so after the ad has been accepted for publication but before the publication occurs. The Advertiser’s sole remedy for such refusal shall be the refund of the funds paid to purchase the ad. Advertisements are accepted by the Publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or Advertiser is authorized to publish the contents and subject matter of the advertisement and that it is no libelous or does not infringe on the privacy of the individual or entity. All advertisements are accepted and published by the Publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or Advertiser will indemnify and hold harmless the Publisher from any loss or expense, including the cost of defense and settlement and/or judgment resulting from claims based upon the contents of any advertisement including claims or suits for defamation, libel, violation of right of privacy, plagiarism or copyright infringement. All advertisements created by the Publisher are not considered a “work made for hire” and the Publisher retains the copyright to all advertisements created by the Publisher for the Advertiser. The advertisement may not be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
April 15, 2015
April Showers BRING A entry hevrolet
2004 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Gentry Price:
45K Miles
$6,125
WAS $7,995 2015 Chevy Impala Gentry Price:
$25,795
WAS $27,899 2013 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Duramax Gentry Price:
$39,660
WAS $42,963
2013 Honda Pilot Gentry Price:
$27,968
WAS $29,795
www.GentryChevyInc.com 801 West Collin Raye Dr., • De Queen, AR
1-800-649-9929
2012 Ford F250 Lariat Powerstroke Gentry Price:
$43,980
WAS $45,963 2012 Nissan Frontier 4x4 Gentry Price:
$20,963
WAS $22,495 2011 Nissan Altima Gentry Price:
$15,753
WAS $17,425 2015 Buick Verano Gentry Price:
$20,965
WAS $23,925