April 15th paper sm

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FREE WEEKLY

April 15, 2015

THE POLK COUNTY

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1168 Hwy 71 S • Mena, AR 71953 • 479-243-9600

MyPulseNews.com . . . Your DAILY News Source!

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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