April 6, 2016 by The Pulse

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April 6, 2016

THE POLK COUNTY

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

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Century Old Church is Beneficiary of the Heart of a Local Boy Scout

Governor Asa Hutchinson to Speak at GOP’s Reagan-Rockefeller Event BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson will be the keynote speaker for this weekend’s Polk County Republican Committee’s annual Reagan-Rockefeller Dinner. The event will be held at the Ouachita Center and will include the opportunity to “meet and mingle” with other ofﬁce holders and candidates. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

High Hazard Dam Exercises to be Conducted this Month BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

A mandatory duel exercise for high hazard dams will be conducted at Irons Fork Lake and Mena Lake on Tuesday, April 19th, with many of the city and county’s ofﬁcials and entities taking part. The training exercise is part of the emergency action plans required by regulators from the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Antique County Courthouse Elevator to Receive Much Needed Repairs BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

Several repairs are in store for the elevator inside the Polk County Courthouse that will cost the county around $25,000. The elevator is original to the building that was constructed in 1939 and according to County Judge Brandon Ellison, “has always had problems due to its age.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

[PHOTO BY MELANIE BUCK] Jordan Strickland of Boy Scout Troop 92 works on scraping the paint off of the Rocky Methodist Church in preparation of being primed and painted. His dedication to the exterior of the building will serve to gain him the highest rank in scouting - Eagle Scout. Strickland has also been joined by fellow boy scouts throughout the process. See his story continued on page 9 of this edition.

Welfare Recipients Subject to Drug Testing BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

Some Arkansans that receive welfare beneﬁts will now be subject to drug testing beginning this month. Governor Asa Hutchinson announced that what began as a pilot program for just a few counties, will now become a statewide program. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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April 6, 2016

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@MyPulseNews The Polk County Pulse is the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County 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 Pulse Multi-Media. MyPulseNews.com currently has an on-line audience of 24,000 giving us a combined readership of 32,000. 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 Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media & 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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PHONE: 479-243-9600 FAX: 479-243-9603 1168 Hwy 71 South, Mena

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Polk 274 Bridge Complete BY MELANIE BUCK

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he project to replace a bridge on Polk Road 274 in Cove that was damaged in the December 2015 flood is now complete says Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison. The timber structure bridge was replaced with a new concrete structure and was also widened in the process. Ellison said, “We appreciate the patience our citizens had during this inconvenience.” The new 19-foot bridge features new concrete footings, abutments, and wing walls. The estimated cost of the project including the cost of demo, the bridge itself, a 1/4 mile of road rebuild, and the bridge approaches, is approximately $66,000.

Rook to take Presidential Position BY MELANIE BUCK news@mypulsenews.com at Malvern D

r. Steve Rook, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Rich Mountain Community College, has accepted a presidential position at another school and will soon be leaving RMCC. Rook has been named as the new President of the College of the Ouachitas in Malvern, Arkansas. Phillip Wilson, President of RMCC, said “It is with the happiest emotions that I congratulate Dr. Steve Rook on being named President. He has been a friend, mentor, and tremendous asset to Rich Mountain Community College. He has worked tirelessly to make our college an outstanding institution of higher learning. I am confident that if you cut open Steve, he would bleed RMCC purple.” Rook will assume his new position on June 1, 2016. Although he is sad to leave Mena behind, Rook said, “I am incredibly honored and humbled. I look forward to working with everyone at The College of the Ouachitas and in the community. Connie and I couldn’t be happier.”

January 6, 2016

Governor Would like to give

A BIG THANK YOU!

To all involved in our Free Dental Fridays: • Consumers who waited patiently for service • Blue & You Foundation of Arkansas for choosing Healthy Connections, Inc. for the Grant • Mena Star, DeQueen Bee, The Waldron News, Montgomery County News, Glenwood Herald, The Pulse and KENA & KQOR. • Healthy Connections dental providers: Dr. Beasley, Dr. Tilgner and all staff for volunteering to work on Friday

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Asa Hutchinson was sworn in as the 46th Governor of Arkansas in January, and immediately set in motion his plan to bring more jobs and economic growth to his native state. Governor Hutchinson kept a major campaign promise by working to pass the biggest income tax rate cut in state history. His initiative to require computer-coding classes in every public high school makes Arkansas a national leader and signals to businesses everywhere that our students will be prepared for the 21st century economy. For tickets, contact Erma Mize 394-1982, LaDon Copelin 394-5570, or Gar Eisele at 394-4332.

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Service Lines Often Clogged with Local Teens Attend Rotary Youth news@mypulsenews.com ‘Flushable’ Items Leadership Awards Camp BY MELANIE BUCK

ften we find ourselves with backed-up sewer lines and calling a service company to come clean them or septic systems out only to find that some item was ‘flushed’ that really shouldn’t have been. Sometimes these items are common sense items, but others are seemingly flushable and harmless. However, according to Mena Water Utilities Manager, Charles Pitman, some of those ‘harmless’ items are actually quite the contrary. Flushable wipes are one such item that causes serious problems on not just septic systems, but also plants. Pitman exarysewer 6, 2016 Weekly Publica plained that his first encoun- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Six students, four from Mena High School and two from Acorn High School, were selected ter with flushable wipes was to attend a four-day intensive leadership camp presented by Rotary International. The as a new homeowner. “They had all caught up on a tree root and in addition to digging Mena/Polk County Rotary Club sponsored the local students who all spoke of the amazing out the wads of wipes, I had to repair my line and disinfect my bathtub.” experiences they had while attending the camp. Pictured are Rotary members Kim Hughes He explained further, “The problem is usually that one item didn’t make its way out of and James Earl Turner, who transported the students to the camp that is located in Fernyour service line because they weren’t made to float. They find a place to start collectdale, Arkansas. Camp attendees were Dustin Dilbeck, April Rose, Clint Buck, and Joseph Linden from Mena and Harley Dearing and Brooke Bates from Acorn High School. ing and before long, there’s far more than any size pipe could ever handle.” He said the buildup is what causes drains to begin to overflow into yards, a ditch, or even the street. Pitman said there are many other items consumers flush that cause issues as well. Hypodermic needles, condoms, and feminine hygiene products are items that are found quite often in service lines and many times, at the sewer plant itself. “Hypodermic needles are an example of something that should never be flushed,” he explained. “Nor should they be thrown away. There are too many chances of someone getting hurt with used needles.” Pitman suggests that if you are unsure how to properly dispose of hypodermic needles, to contact your doctor’s office, pharmacy, or the Polk County Sheriff’s Department. He also suggests proper disposal of all items. “In short, unless you properly dispose of these things, chances are pretty good that it will be causing problems for yourself, or someone else,” said Pitman. “And remember, that when any of those things gets backed up, whether in your lines or at the sewer plant, someone has to dig it out, sometimes by hand. If it doesn’t start disintegrating before it leaves the customer’s service line, chances are good that it will cause someone a disgusting problem.”

“Unless you properly dis-

pose of these things, chances are pretty good that it will be causing problems for yourself, or someone else.”

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Mayor Proclaims April as Child Abuse Awareness Month

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Mayor George McKee recently signed a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Awareness Month in Polk County. CASA joined with DHS, Andy Riner, Elena Cannon and Krisiti Schuller to bring public awareness to this heartbreaking, on-going issue. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Child abuse casts a shadow that will last a lifetime. Please join our cause and lets stand up for children, there is no excuse for child abuse,â&#x20AC;? said Renee Hendrix, CASA Assistant Director. Pictured are: Keith Rose, CASA volunteer and CALL Representative; Cynthia Martin, CASA Program Director; Kristi Schuller, Witness Coordinator; Elena Cannon, Investigator 18th W Judicial District; Mena Mayor George McKee; Kendra Tarkinton, Polk County Resource Worker; Karla Green, DCFS Family Service Worker; Andy Riner, Prosecuting Attorney; Renee Hendrix, CASA Assistant Director.

April 9, 2016 Race Starts at 10 am

City Council Approves Expenditures news@mypulsenews.com M BY MELANIE BUCK

ena City Council held a special called meeting on Tuesday, March 29, to hold a vote on the expenditure of funds for the East Boundry street project. The project will see a section of East Boundry that runs between Ransom Road and the Mena School Bus Barn at the Mildred Street intersection, hard surfaced. Estimated cost of the project that was prepared by Morrison Shipley engineers is $293,010. A grant is being sought through the Western Arkansas Planning and Development District for the amount of $200,000. The road is co-owned by the city and county, who are responsible for any costs above the grant amount. Both Mena City Council and the Polk County Quorum Court have approved the cost share of $46,505 each. It will take several weeks before it is known whether the grant will be approved or denied but officials remain hopeful. The purchase of two new police cars for the Mena Police Department was also approved at the special meeting of the City Council. The city is opening bids on the purchase on April 21st. Once purchased, the city will have to outfit the cars with new equipment such as light bars and cages and will also paint the outside. The city has a budget set aside for the cars but is hopeful that bids will come in under that amount.

January 6, 2016

Mena High School 8:30-9:30 am Registration Pre-Register at any Bear State Branch for a discounted price and t-shirt!

Contact Heather Lackey or Tabatha Viera at 479.394.3838 with questions.

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City Announces Spring Clean-Up Dates

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The City warns that it is

Roberts Wins Lions Club news@mypulsenews.com Gun Raffle

citizen

he City of Mena Annual Spring Clean-Up BY MELANIE BUCK is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, 2016 through Monday, May 2, 2016. City trucks will pick up items you want to dispose of at no charge. This clean-up service is free for residences within the city limits of Mena only. There are certain regulations that must be followed in order for the pick-up to run smoothly and materials will not be picked up unless they are placed at the curbside and separated. The City warns that it is very important to keep separate any items that you want to keep, such as trashcans, and place them away from the items to be discarded. 23 The following items cannot be picked up by the city: January 6, 2016 ...................................................................................................... tires, concrete, brick, rocks, dirt, shingles, batteries, and construction debris. The city asks that you separate your items to be discarded into 5 distinct piles: 1. Furniture--couches, chairs, televisions, window frames, etc.; 2. Household trash--paper items, etc. (place trashcans that you wish to keep to one side so that they will not be disposed of inadvertently); 3. Metal materials--hot water heaters, stoves, appliances, etc.; 4. Yard waste--tree limbs, shrubs, grass, etc. 5. Yard debris--it is required that all yard debris such as small limbs, gum balls, and leaves be placed in garbage bags. The Mena Street Department will begin pick up in the Northwest part of the city and work their way across town Rene Roberts was the winner of a drawing that the Mena following the same routes as Southern Disposal. Trucks will run one to three days after the day of your normal Lions Club had over the weekend at their gun and knife show. trash pick-up. The response to this Clean-Up is usually overwhelming, so the city asks for patience if the trucks Roberts purchased a raffle ticket and got her choice of an American Ruger rifle. She is pictured with Lions Club President are running somewhat behind the posted schedule; however, each route will only be covered one time. It is not Wes Gann. necessary to call City Hall in order to receive this service.

very important to keep separate any items that you want to keep, such as trashcans, and place them away from the items to be discarded.

GIVE ONLINE THROUGH

ARKANSASGIVES.ORG ON APRIL 7 TO HELP

CASA of the Ouachita Region CASA will earn bonus dollars and have a chance to earn prizes for every gift given online through ArkansasGives.org from 8am - 8pm Thursday. Your online donation April 7 will help CASA of the Ouachita Region, serving as a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advocate in the court system for abused and neglected children. The public will be able to give online from smartphones, tablets or personal computers by going to ArkansasGives.org and making a credit card donation.

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CONTINUEDFROM FRONT PAGE Nursing Home Dam Exercises The Commission enforces federal regulations on dams and requires Bound Air ‘tabletop,’ or small-scale,’ exercises to be performed yearly and full-scale every three years. For the exercise, a scenario is set up that requires Force Veteran operations emergency action, communication, and rapid response, training locals with the knowledge of what to do if the dam is somehow breached. Honored by The initial premise in this year’s scenario, is that Local DAV 13 ½ inches of rain has fallhe instant failure en in 24 hours. During that time the ‘rapidly developAuxiliary

“T

citizen

On March 7th, two members of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary Unit #46 presented a veteran’s 23 plaque to a patient January 6, 2016 in the Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation Home. Betty Cross presented the plaque to Robert Madden, an Air Force Veteran. Carol Burns, not shown, was also present.

Apartments for Rent at our locations in Mena, Hatfield, Cove and Wickes. Our apartments are "Smoke Free" and you will find the following included in the rent you pay. Cooking and Heating are both Natural Gas and this is paid by the housing authority. Your water, sewer and garbage pick-up is also paid by the housing authority. You will be responsible for your own electric, phone and TV service. Rent amount based on income. Lawn mowing service is provided to elderly/disabled residents and the service is available for a fee to all other resident's. Apartments are equipped with a range, refrigerator and central heat and air conditioning.

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phase is a simulation of the ing condition’ phase of the emergency action plan is dam breaking and sending followed and all participating units will be on location massive floodwaters through when the alarm is sounded for the ‘practically instantly surrounding terrain.” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . failure’ . . . . . . .phase . . . . . . to . . .start. . . . . .The .....

instant failure phase is a simulation of the dam breaking and sending massive floodwaters through surrounding terrain. During this phase, both emergency search, rescue and recovery are all practiced during the exercise. The rescue of two flood trapped citizens and the recovery of one drowning victim will be included in the training. Iron’s Fork Lake previously held the record for highest score in the state for their high hazard exercise but was recently knocked out of the top January ranking. Crews 6, 201 involved in this year’s exercise are dedicated to bringing the top numbers back to Irons Fork Dam. The training at Irons Fork Dam will kick-off at 1 p.m. and will last until around 10 p.m. The ‘dam failure’ alarm will be sounded at 7 p.m. Polk County’s Office of Emergency Management will set up a command center at the pavilion at Mena Lake to control both scenes. The ‘dam failure’ at Mena Lake will occur around 8:30 p.m., creating a duel-training program. Ward Lake is also considered a high hazard dam but is not included in the training this year. Graydon Clark, Consultant for Technical Services Group, conducts the exercise where more than 300 people are expected to participate. Those participants include members of Mena Fire, Mena Water Utilities, Polk County OEM, Sheriff’s Department, City of Mena, Mena Police Department, Southwest EMS, Liberty EMS, Air Evac, and Cherry Hill, Dallas Valley, and Ink Fire Departments.

Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

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Courthouse Elevator Repairs

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE The elevator is in working condition but requires routine maintenance. An elevator company performs quarterly inspections, costing the county a $2,000 per year retainer fee. Ellison explained that any additional work by the company costs extra. Thyssen Krupp Elevator Americas is one of only two companies that the county can seek the work from and the other company refuses to work on the courthouse elevator because of its age. The ‘extra’ work is needed this year to make the elevator safe for not only passengers, but for the workers that inspect and maintain the elevator and shaft. In fact, many of the repairs are strictly for worker safety. A pit ladder is needed, along with a car-top handrail, hoistway cover, brake cover, and a new traveling cable and cartop inspection station will be added. On the inside of the elevator, a new hardwired telephone is to be installed, as well as a toe guard, and emergency light kit. The elevator is very small, measuring only 2 ½ ft x 5 ft, and is old-style. Ellison said it is used several times a week and is required by the state for visitors of the courthouse that are unable to scale the stairs to the upper and lower floors. Approaching the elevator, it looks like a normal door, until you open it, revealing an accordion-style door. Once inside the elevator, it’s antiqueness is apparent. The buttons that take you to other floors must be held down for the entire ride for it to work. There is also tape on the accordion door that must line up properly to the tape on the outside door for the doors to open, requiring particular savvy on when to pull your finger from the button. It is also very narrow, making it difficult for wheelchairs to enter and exit. A new elevator would be ideal for the situation; however, the cost of such is very high. To bring it to modern status, the elevator and shaft would have to be started from new, requiring a wider shaft and losing much needed office space. Ellison said former Judge Stanley had estimates made of the cost of starting new, which turned out to be more than $1.5 million, a budget Polk County does not have. Being on the National Historic Register has allowed the county to be ‘grandfathered-in’ and avoid millions in county funds being allotted to the project. Also, Ellison explained, the county is not the only entity that would be involved. “If we changed the elevator much, we would have to seek an easement from the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program for permission. Anything we do that changes the appearance or the footprint of the building, AHPP has to be involved in,” stated Ellison. The Polk County Quorum Court has approved the appropriation of funds to repair the elevator at their March 2016 monthly meeting. The project is expected to begin by June 2016.

Welfare Drug Testing

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

The new drug-screening program was set up through Act 1205 of 2015, commonly referred to as the Drug Screening and Testing Act of 2015. Whether applying for Transitional Employment Assistance, also known as TEA, or for TANF, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, screenings will be conducted and drug testing possible. Drug tests with negative results for illegal drugs would be paid for by the state. If a drug test comes back positive for illicit drugs, applicants would not lose their benefits, but they must enter a drug treatment program that has benchmarks to be met to allow applicants to continue receiving benefits. A positive drug test, however, would be paid for using the applicant’s government benefits. Initial estimates projected by the Department of Workforce Services put implementation of the drug screening/drug testing program at around $1.7 million.

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Keith and Sharon Aleshire Broker/Owners

Keith’s cell - 479-243-5341 Sharon’s cell - 479-394-8514 3626 - If you have been searching for a home in the country with a mountain view, pond, National Forest across the road and near a fishing lake this 1856 sq. ft 3bd 1 1/2 ba may be for you. Call today to view this property. $129,500

OUACHITA RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT Kindergarten Teacher at Acorn Elementary School

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3576 - Attention river lovers this 2.87 ac. with lots of river frontage with easy access. The log sided home has 1680 sq ft, screened porch and deck over looking the Ouachita River also the home comes mostly furnished There is lots of outside storage and a work shop. This place is ready for you to bring your fishing supplies then enjoy the evenings on the deck watching the river flow by. $127,000

3574 - This 3 bd 2 ba brick home comes with large living room with fireplace, across the breeze way you have a 2 car garage with 780 sq ft apartment above the garage which also has 1/2 ba. .There is a 30 x 36 shop for your hobbies and also a storage building. $129,500

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Local Teen Makes Church his Eagle Scout Focus O

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

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ne local Boy Scout is making a longtime dream come true for supporters of Rocky Methodist Church. Jordan Strickland, a senior at Mena High School and member of Boy Scout Troop 92, is seeking the highest scouting award, Eagle Scout, and has chosen the church as the recipient of this community project. Scraping and painting the almost century old church is Strickland’s agenda and he is working diligently, along with help from other scouts, to bring new life to the 99-year old historical piece, that no longer holds services but sits silently overlooking the Rocky Cemetery. His fellow scouts include David Chaney, Travis Mos, and Jake Sawyer. Strickland’s family owns property around the church and the cemetery that sits adjacent. He said that each year when he and his family attend the cemetery decoration, he looks at the old church and thinks, “wouldn’t it be nice to look up from the decorations and see a beautiful church sitting there. People come here to mourn the loss of their loved ones and so I thought it would be nice to make it look good.” And that’s where his idea came from; he just wanted to beautify his surroundings. After conceiving the idea, he approached keepers of the church and found that they had been trying desperately for some time to raise the money to do exactly that, restorate the church by painting the building and building a new roof. Although roofing is not in his future, Strickland has been more than happy to spend his days off from school scraping the old paint off and preparing for a fresh coat of primer before paint is applied. The Rocky Cemetery Association, which is separate from the Rocky Methodist Church and they have donated $750 for the painting project. Also, Mike’s Home Specialties and Handy Hardware have both donated materials for the project. This is actually not the first Eagle Scout project that has been completed at the church. Strickland’s father, Will Strickland, explained that several years ago the inside of the church was painted by another scout earning his Eagle Scout award. Jordan has been a Boy Scout for ten years and said his favorite thing about it is, “it kinda helps you grow up. It teaches you things that you wouldn’t otherwise learn unless you’re out in the woods everyday. I’ve learned a lot of things that I will take with me for a long time.” Paula Cox of the Rocky Methodist Church Association said, “The Rocky Methodist Church Association and I are looking forward to seeing the outstanding accomplishments of these members of our community’s youth. We are very excited and thankful

January 6, 201

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is planned for the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce 2016 Chamber Banquet & Membership Celebration

Tuesday, April 19th at 6:00 pm in the Carver Grand Hall of the Ouachita Center at RMCC

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Eagle Scout

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

for all the time and hard work the boy scouts are putting in scraping and painting the historic old church.” Fundraising efforts continue so that the rooﬁng project can be completed as soon as possible. Although some donate to the cemetery, many don’t realize that the church is separate and until recent fundraising, the last donation to the church was made in 2009 in the amount of $50. “The church has been a part of the lives and memories of everyone that grew up in and around the Rocky Community. This beautiful old building still stands vigil over our soldiers, fathers, mothers and loved ones buried in the cemetery next to it. This old church has withstood storms and droughts. It has seen weddings, funerals, meetings, fellowships and decorations and it will stand for another hundred years if we get the repairs done quickly,” said Cox. Aside from monetary donations, local artist Bill Wells, painted a rendition of the church and prints are available. Prints of Wells’ painting can be purchased in support of the building’s repairs. The original copy of the picture is currently on display at the Union Bank of Mena and limited edition, 8 x 10 signed prints can be purchased for $35 from The Union Bank of Mena, The Shop, and George Davis State Farm Insurance on Main Street in Mena. In addition to the prints, greeting cards, post cards and 4 x 6 prints can be purchased at The Shop and George Davis State Farm Insurance. All of the proceeds of these sales will go directly to the repair and restoration of the church. Donations can also be made by depositing or mailing them to: Rocky Methodist Church Building Fund, c/o Union Bank of Mena, P.O. Box 898, Mena, Arkansas 71953.

Crews Remain Busy on Streetnews@mypulsenews.com scape Project BY MELANIE BUCK

Crews from Township Builders in Little Rock continue the work on Mena Street to replace the sidewalks from Sherwood Avenue to Maple Street for the completion of the Downtown Streetscape Project. As of press time, workers were still improving the section in front of Skyline Cafe and The Mercantile.

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................................................................................................................................ family and friends. Margaret was a Prayer Warrior and was RICKY LOONEY He is survived by, wife, Cindy Looney of praying for her family, her church and others MARGARET Mena, Arkansas; sons, Michael Looney of several times during her day. She loved her Ricky Looney, age 58, of Mena, BISTRICAN Mena, Arkansas, Rickey Looney and wife family and spending time with her daughter, Arkansas passed away Thursday, Angie of Mena, Arkansas; grandchild, Cael Pat and her grandchildren. Margaret’s hobISAAC March 31, 2016 in Mena.

Ricky was born to the late James Looney and the late Louise Egger Looney on July 26, 1957 in Mena, Arkansas. He was married to Cindy Looney for 38 years. Ricky worked for 32 years as a heavy equipment operator for Polk County Road Department and Arkansas State Parks Department. He was a member of the Elks and was a hard worker, most of all Ricky loved his family dearly. He was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Ricky will be missed by all

MENA REAL ESTATE

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Looney of Mena; brother, Donnie Smith and wife Regina of Mena; sister, Linda Dempsey and husband James of Mena He was preceded in death by, his parents and grandparents. Graveside services were Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at Board Camp Cemetery with Brother Mark Lyle ofﬁciating under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friend’s visitation was Saturday, April 2, 2016 at Beasley Wood Chapel from 6-8 p.m.

Margaret Bistrican Isaac, age 95, of Mena, died Thursday, March 24, 2016 at Mena Regional Health System in Mena. She was born on Tuesday, March 8, 1921 to Joseph and Mary (Pitak) Bistrican in East Chicago, Indiana. Margaret loved life and always trusted the Lord. She was a member of the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena and served many years as the head of the Altar Society; serving her church and Lord any way she could.

bies included knitting, crocheting and sewing. She also enjoyed listening to Classical music, watching musical movies and watching EWTN. Margaret was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. Margaret is survived by, her daughter, Patricia White of Mena; one brother, Richard Bistrican of Mena; two sisters, Teresa Mears of Portage, Indiana and Bettie Anderson of Gilbert, Arizona; two grandchildren, Charlene Gear of Bentonville, Charles White III of

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April 6, 2016

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................................................................................................................................ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 Gilbert, Arizona; seven great grandchildren, Christina, Corianna, Cassandra, Carley Jo, Nikki, Catie and Stephanie; two great-great grandsons, Urijah and Seth; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by, her parents; four brothers, Stanley Bistrican, Joseph Bistrican, Tom Bistrican and Wendell Bistrican; two sisters, Mary Talarek and Dorothy Davis and her granddaughter, Rebekah Johnson. Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, April 1, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Father John Tuyen Tran as celebrant. Interment followed in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery under the direction of the Bowser Family Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation and Rosary service was Thursday, March 31, 2016 starting at 7:00 P.M. and Rosary service at 7:30 at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena. Pallbearers were Ron Anderle, Larry Lamia, Jose Hernandez, Darren Gear, Jason Gibson and John Titsworth. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

LELAND WOOD Leland Wood, age 87 of Cove, Arkansas died, Sunday, March 27, 2016 in Mena. He was born on July 30, 1928 to Clarence William and Lena May Query Wood in Bourbon County, Kansas. Leland served his country proudly in the United States Army during World War II. He was a hard worker who took pride and enjoyment in his work. He was employed as the Systems Maintenance Supervisor with AT&T for over 29 years. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening and growing fruit trees.

Leland’s family were most important to him; especially all his grandchildren. He was a Christian who believed in helping people who were in need by giving generously to several different charities and causes. He was a member of The Gathering of Christ in Cove. Leland was a loving father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.   Leland is survived by, two sons, Michael Wood of Mena and Paul Wood and wife Allie of Cove; one daughter, Teresa Love of Cove; three brothers, Walter H. Wood of Amarillo, Texas, Kenneth Wood of Fort Scott, Kansas and C. Bryrne Wood of Ellsworth, Kansas; one sister, Loreta Jent of Bloomington, Illinois; seven grandchildren, Debra Buschman of Mena, Amye Robards of Mesquite, Texas, Lauren Hernandez of Memphis, Tennessee, Alexis Hensley of Mena, Emily Bailey of Rockwall, Texas, Michael Wood II of Yokohama, Japan and Brandon Bailey of Wickes; three great grandchildren, Colton Hunter of Mesquite, Texas, Paul Buschman III of Mena and Sarai Hernandez of Memphis, Tennessee; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by, his parents; his wife, Wanda Wood and one great granddaughter, Hazel Robards. Funeral services with military honors were Saturday, April 2, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Steve Squires officiating. Mr. Wood was sent for cremation after the funeral service. Visitation was Friday, April 1, 2015 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

BILL WOOD Bill Lauck Wood, born November 8, 1926 in Mena, Arkansas passed away peacefully

The family of ROBERT W. DAVIS

would like to thank all who called, came by to visit, sent flowers, brought food and other necessities. Please know that words cannot express our appreciation for all these things and especially for anyone who shared a funny story or good memory of Robert. He was a very special man - a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. A special “thanks” to the ICU staff at Mena Regional Health System, the caregivers at Elite Home Health and American Home Patient for the care and compassion shown to us throughout the past several months. He loved and was loved. We miss him greatly now, but know that we will see him again... Mary Davis, Lisa Houser & family, Laura Keiss and family

at his home on March 18, 2016. Bill was a devoted and loving father, son, brother, husband, grandfather and friend. He will be greatly missed by, his family, his friends, his co-workers, and fellow Razorback fans. He grew up in Mena, Arkansas and in Wasco, California as the son of Lake J. Wood and Ellen Lauck Wood. He graduated from Wasco High School in 1944 and attended the University of Arkansas where he was a member of Sigma Chi. He enlisted in the Army Air Corp Pilot Cadet program in 1943 and was called to active duty in January, 1945. He served as a technician and pilot with the 35th Fighter Group, and spent his tour of duty at Johnson Field in Tokyo, Japan immediately after the end of World War II. While there he helped develop the first ever pilot technical for the P-51D fighter plane. He returned to the US in 1947 and graduated from Henderson State in 1949 and spent his tour of duty at Johnson Field in Tokyo, Japan immediately after the end of World War ll. After two years in the oil business near El Dorado, he began his banking career at the Union Bank of Mena, a business founded by his grandfather William J. Lauck in 1932. Starting as a teller in 1951, he worked in virtually every position at the bank, eventually rising to president, director and stockholder. Bill continued his service at the bank until his death, a period of 65 years. During this time, he also served as a director of the Arkansas Bankers Association. Bill was very dedicated to his community of Mena serving in many capacities including: president of the Chamber of Commerce; member and president of the Mena Airport Commission; board member of the Rich Mountain Community College; president of the Lion’s Club and he was a Mason. A man of quiet faith, he also served in many leadership capacities with the First United Methodist Church of Mena. From childhood, Bill had a love of aviation. Before he was old enough to drive a car, he soloed at age 14 in a Piper Cub flying from a cow pasture near Mena. Over the years, he flew many different types of private and military aircraft from single to multi-engines. As a private pilot, he and his family enjoyed many vacations in the family plane. He was a long time member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and was a founding Commander of the Mena Chapter of the Civil Air Patrol in the 1960’s. Upon retiring as president of the bank, he began constructing his own World War I Fighter plane replica from only a set of plans. He successfully completed and flew the plane and enjoyed many hours of flying this aircraft at airshows around Arkansas. His flying career was capped in 2011 when he was awarded the Wright Brother’s Mas-

ter Pilot Award by the FAA. This award is extremely rare and is a testament to his skill as a pilot and his passion for flying. Bill was also an avid sportsman and adventurer. He enjoyed golf, tennis, hunting, fishing, water skiing, snow skiing and car racing. He also raised quarter horses and enjoyed riding and rodeo. His love for Razorback football and basketball was topped only by the enjoyment of his many pets. His many dogs and cats were always with him, especially his faithful Bulldogs. Most important in Bill’s life was his family-his pride and joy. He was married to Julia James in 1949, and later to Marg Johnson Cox and had four children. He was preceded in death by, wife Marg, and by his father, Lake J. Wood; his mother, Ellen Lauck Wood Boswell: his sister, Mary Jo Gooch; his half-brother, Jay Wood; and his son-inlaw, Cotton Ashley. Bill is survived by, his four children, Beth Strickland and husband John of Bentonville, Arkansas; Ken Wood and wife Kathy of Prosper, Texas; Keith C. Wood of Bentonville, Arkansas; and Lynn Ashley of Mena, and by his beloved grand-children and great grand-children, Garland Autry and wife Sarah of Fayetteville, Arkansas and their children, Titus and Haddie, Garrett Autry and wife Alex of Lowell Arkansas; Lakelin Ashley of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Morgan Ashley of the University of Arkansas his half-sister, Judy Lambert of Beverly Hills, California, and by numerous nieces, nephews; cousins, and countless dear friends and associates. Bill will be greatly missed by all. The family wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the blessed and devoted care-givers Bill had in his life: Ann Hughes, Beverly Huber, Barbara Rice, Darlene May and Bonnie Stiltner. Your love and kindness will be forever remembered. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Rich Mountain Community College Foundation in honor of Bill Lauck Wood. Funeral services were at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 25, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church of Mena with Pastor Ann Ferris officiating. Interment followed in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation was Thursday, March 24, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Garland Autry, Garrett Autry and Lakelin Ashley, which are his grandsons. Other pallbearers were Billy Ray Cathey, Darrell Whisenhunt, John Maddox, Danny Thrailkill and Jeff Montgomery. Honorary pallbearers were the members of the Board of the Union Bank of Mena.

January 6, 2016

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April 6, 2016

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Louise Durham Super Students of the Week

SUBMITTED BY MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

uper Students at Louise Durham Elementary for the week of March 28th, 2016 are: Top row - Sawyer Golden, Lina Byrd, Allison Howard, Beck Vacca, Mallori Brotherton, Sylvia Hogan; Middle row - Mariah Dilbert, Cater Quillin, Gavin Griffin, Caylee Yeager, Daxx Chambers, Dori Walker, Ike Richie; Front row - Naomi Shone, Lane Starr, Kloey McVicker, Jasmine Parker, Auden Woods, Marcus Jackson, Aiden Martin.

MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 4/11 Biscuit, ham slice, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal TUESDAY 4/12 Mini french toast, fruit, juice, milk Choice: Cereal WEDNESDAY 4/13 Breakfast boats, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal THURSDAY 4/14 Mini donuts, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal FRIDAY 4/15 Biscuits & gravy, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal

MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 4/11 Pizza, salad, broccoli, fruit, milk; Choices: Chicken stir fry, hot roll, broccoli, fruit, milk; or Baked Potato TUESDAY 4/12 Stromboli, baby carrots w/ ranch, salad, cookie, fruit, milk; Choices: Cheeseburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, Chex Mix, baby carrots w/ ranch, cookie, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad WEDNESDAY 4/13 Chicken sandwich, french fries, lettuce, tomato, fruit, milk; Choices: Mini corn dogs, french fries, salad, fruit, milk; or Pizza THURSDAY 4/14 Popcorn chicken, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, hot roll, fruit, milk; Choices: Steak fingers, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, hot roll, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad FRIDAY 4/15 Chicken enchilada bake, beans, Mexicali corn, sidekick, milk; Choices: Cheese nachos, beans, Mexicali corn, sidekick, milk; or Pizza ACORN SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 4/11 French toast, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal TUESDAY 4/12 Mini donuts, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal WEDNESDAY 4/13 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk THURSDAY 4/14 Biscuit, sausage gravy, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal FRIDAY 4/15 Muffins, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal

Cossatot River Presents Art Scholarship C

SUBMITTED BY COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOLS

ossatot River High School was recently presented with an Art Scholarship grant from the Ouachita Arts & Guild, Inc. The grant was for $10,000, which covers a $500 per year scholarship for the next 20 years for an art student scholarship.

ACORN SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 4/11 Italian melt on flatbread, broccoli & cheese, corn, fruit, milk TUESDAY 4/12 Chicken spaghetti, tossed salad, carrots, garlic bread, roll, fruit, milk WEDNESDAY 4/13 Pork roast & gravy, potatoes, green beans, roll, fruit, milk THURSDAY 4/14 Beef nachos, lettuce, tomato, salsa, pinto beans, fruit, milk FRIDAY 4/15 Hot dogs, french fries, California blend, fruit, milk COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 4/11 Cinnamon round, applesauce, orange juice, milk TUESDAY 4/12 Biscuit w/ sausage, raisels, apple juice, milk WEDNESDAY 4/13 Poptart, orange wedges, cherry juice, milk THURSDAY 4/14 Sausage roll, apple wedges, orange juice, milk FRIDAY 4/15 Super donut, fruit, cup, apple juice, milk

COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 4/11 Chicken fajita, lettuce, tomato, cheese salsa, pinto beans, mandarin oranges, milk TUESDAY 4/12 Corn dog, french fries, carrots & broccoli w/ dressing, fruit cocktail, milk WEDNESDAY 4/13 Vegetables beef soup w/ crackers, cheese toast, tossed salad w/ dressing, pears, milk THURSDAY 4/14 Chicken strips mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, pineapple, roll, milk FRIDAY 4/15 Hamburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, baked beans, chips, strawberries, sugar cookie, milk

This weekly info proudly sponsored by:

GEORGE S. DAVIS STATE FARM AGENT SINCE 1964

Insurance with a name you know STATE FARM INSURANCE 624 Sherwood Avenue, Mena, AR

479.394.4521 Res. 479.394.1895

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Honor Roll for County Schools Acorn Middle and High School

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th Grade: All As – Emily Blair, Damian Bohlman, Mason Cunningham, Kyla Kimp, Kiersten Larucci, Jacob Lyle, Abigail Nance, Raeghan Weddle. As & Bs – Michael Auces, Faith Brandon, Kayla Curry, Lexi Dilbeck, Trace Huff, Reese Rogers, Kaylee Tedder. 7th Grade: All As – Emmy Goss, Corryn Holland, Halli Holland, Abi Marks, Harlee Rodgers. As & Bs – Ashlynn Bissell, Keelan Brown, Jaden Miller, Dustin Poor, Cody Smith, Autumn Strother, Sarah Wallace, Austin Zarrella. 8th Grade: All As – Makenna Goss, Kacey Head, Brady Lyle. As & Bs – Corinne Branson, Matthew Chaney, Olivia Cranfield, Elizabeth Denley, Cara Driggers, Vivan Harper, Mindy Hibbs, Sophie Jackson, Shianne Johns, Jacob Moore, Mercedes Mowdy, Andrew Philpot, Alexius Powell, Chad Sutton, Daniel Warren, Brody Webb. 9th Grade: All As – Makayla Anderson. As & Bs – Adam McDaniel, Haley Richardson, Mason Stout, Noah Stout, Braxlie Strother, Kaitlin Warren, Jeb Willborg. 10th Grade: All As – Zane Barr, Blake McCourtney. As & Bs – Makenzie Goss, Elizabeth Hachtel, Josey Webb. 11th Grade: All As – Harly Dearing, Morgan Fagan. As & Bs – Brooke Bates, Pleng Peungjor. 12th Grade: All As – Macie Adams, Taylor Deramus, Selena Maechler. As & Bs – Kameron Atkinson, Elizabeth Baker, Ethan Bird, Lane Ferguson, Shawn Goss, Zephrey Harvey, Taylar Loyd, Ashton Pardun, Rachel Wallace.

Mena Middle School

th Grade: All As – Allison Bates, Katie Benefield, Sam Cross, William Davis, Grayson Fairless, Sarah Grenier, Tate Hunter, Emily Liles, Zachary Medlin, Gage Mortimer, Justice Neufeld, Drey Ozanich, Avery Powell, Austin Rose, Cathy Miller, Annika Thompson, Travis Thrailkill, Tanner Williams, Rachel Wilson. As & Bs – Jett Baber, Isabella Balkenhol, Olivia Betz, Jaimeson Biard, Amanda Booth, Brendon Brown, Aryana Carter, Braxton Claborn, Dalton Crawford, Courtney Curry, Clay Davis, Whitney Dilbert, Gage Gorden, Christina Gragg, Evan Graves, Triston Green, Alez Harper, Jayden Harris, Breeanna Hendrix, Nathaniel Jewell, Leilani Knight, Abigail McConnell, Tre’ McMellon, Jaiden Milam, Jerrod Najar, Allison Ogden, Rachel Pennington, Abby Perez, John Pfister, Liberty Sharp, Sarah Simmons, Brenton Simpson, Brenna Smith, Kyra Stephens, Taylor Thacker, Vanessa Vue, William White, Madison Wigley, Alexis Williams, Alex Young. 7th Grade: All As – Brenna Aynes, Madison Blair, Mason Brotherton, Ivy Curtis, Cori Hilton, Vivie Hooper, Cauy House, Ciara Lance, Abbi Langin, Grace Lyle, Max Montgomery, Morgan Puckett, Lauren Sikes, Brianna Timms, Alex Wright. As & Bs – Jacie Allen, Chris Bollmeyer, Elizabeth Cecilio, London Copelin, Sam Cude, Saleen Dixon, Jacob Flemens, Makori Gabourel, Addison Gibbs, Zoie Goforth, Jetzai Hernandez, Gaven Hooper, Kyleigh Johnson, Allie Marton, Davy McDonald, Levi McIntyre, Cylie Moody, January 6, 201 Thaddaeus Nance, Marissa Ortiz, Jessalyn Pierce, Jayden Quebedeaux, Sarah Sharp, Latonia Siler, Kolbe Smith, Micah Smith, Elvis Stricklin, Cameron Terwilliger, Emily Wagner, Destiny Westbrook. 8th Grade: All As – Cadie Cannon, Cason Cannon, Brendon Catlett, Faith Chaney, Paige Evans, David Grenier, Caleb Holmes, Lindy Hull, Macie Johnson, Kiara Kesterson, Lauryn Maechler, Aaron McConnell, Autumn Powell, Cypriss Pruitt, Susie Rivera, Kaitlyn Simmons, Chantal Sims, Skyler Smedley, Zane Stephens, Marc Wilson. As & Bs - Jennifer Adams, Abbie Alvarez, Caleb Baber, Tristen Beck, Avery Bowling, CJ Brown, Haley Caldwell, Ashtan Carr, Lila Chapman, Eli Cook, Bethany Cude, Teresa Cude, Olivia Ferguson, Eden Furr, Marissa Grafton, Andrew Graves, Sierra Grimsley, Ariana Hicks, Autumn Hill, Austin Johnston, Julianna Kennedy, TJ Kiser, Misael Knight, Jenny Laxamana, Macy Maddox, Morgan Miller, Jocelyn Parsons, Alexis Payne, Jacinto Perez, Heath Peterson, Angel Ramirez, Kyndon Schuller, Milia Sibbot, Jeremiah Swint, Amy Thompson, Kaitlyn Titsworth.

Wickes Elementary School

st Grade: All As - Leo Barranco, Kinnah Ferguson, Colton Finley , Gracie Linker, Nicole Martinez, Rynley Richardson, Marvin Brito, Jonas Hernandez, Axel Moreno, Alan Munoz, Liliana Gasca, Clint Hennings, Lexi McCarley, Kaleb Olalde, Braden Smith, Abigail Goethals, Alex Aguilar, Brent James, Noah Saxour, Adric Willis, Claira Morris, Luke Helms, Kaden Whitmire, Jayro Campuzano. 2nd Grade: All As - Eli Stark, Thomas Goethals, Diego Alvarado, Kenya Antunez, Madalynn Benning, Aiden McKenzie, Diana Munoz, Mairany Marrufo, Nathan White, Connor McCormick, Abby Pinon, Garrett Hennings, Raylee Youngblood. As & Bs - Leslie Esquivel, Diego Garcia, Fernando Cortes, Johan Ortega, Mady Dowell, William Ambriz, Oliver Cannon, Rocibel Delgado, Tony Weinert, Josie Harreslon, Aspen Johnson, Jhovani Perez, Nathaniel Trinidad, Grayson Farringer, Addison Watkins, MacKenzie Molina. 3rd Grade: As & Bs - Sabera Land, Zachary McCormick, Easton Johnson, Brenna Roper, Edwin Trinidad, Bradley Thomas, David Ortiz, Jaylee Pollard, Gustavo Cortes, Santiago Maya. 4th Grade: As & Bs - Landrey Richardson, Kaylee Williams, Mallory Farringer, Jocelyn Hernandez, Monse Salgado, Emmanuel Trinidad, Derek Perez, Hazael Cordova, Madison Linker, Ashton Miller, Ethan Youngblood. 5th Grade: As & Bs - Ale Rodriguez, Breonna Cecil, Grant Stark, Reagan Bills, Kyla Ferguson, Ricardo Esquivel, Ashley Castro, Kylie Bailey, Julian Bone, Bria Dotson, Eric Pinon, Toby Brown. 6th Grade: All As - Pate Taylor, Rendi Warren, Kalli Smith, Shelby Brewster. As & Bs -Marissa Hammer, Trayton Johnston, Shanell Brito, Cole Brantley, Kyler Wilson, Baylee Davis, Laura Flores, Kelcy Frachiseur, Trayton Johnson, JT Miller, Labrayla Robb, Jacob Richardson, Noelia Gomez.

More School News Available Online at MyPulseNews.com

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April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Acorn High Students Receive MOS Certificates SUBMITTED BY ACORN SCHOOLS

he Microsoft Office Specialist Exam assesses a person’s ability and knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite. The Exam covers the programs Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook, SharePoint, and OneNote. At Acorn High School the students only test on Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. This test gives the students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of these programs. The students take practice tests before taking the actual MOS test. When they have tried the test, they are given the opportunity to take the MOS exam. If the student scores at least a 700 on the test, then they are certified in that program. Once passed, the certification can be presented on résumés and possibly receive college credit. These 9th grade students passed the PowerPoint and Excel test for Microsoft Office 2013. Pictured are: back row: Cheynne Reynolds, Makayla Anderson, Faith Walker, Stran Strother, Leo Jacinto, Tyler Bates; Front row: Kinzie Kyle, Jakob Ward, Nick Fairless, Haley Richardson, Kendra Branson, Emilee Harvey, Abby Lay. Not pictured: Zak Abbot.

RMCC Hosted Calculator Workshop T

he Rich Mountain Community College Math & Science Department and TRiO SSS Program hosted graphing calculator workshops earlier this year for the spring 2016 semester. The winner of the TI 84 graphing calculator door prize was Nelda Richardson. Pictured holding the calculator prize is Nelda, Susan Tipton, RMCC Math Instructor, and Larry Kropp, RMCC Math Instructor.

MMS Students Win Battle of the Books Vandervoort Elementary’s SoftSeven T

he 3rd Grade at Vandervoort Elementary has been very busy battling it out on the computers. The students practice daily on a program called SoftSeven to improve their fluency with multiplication facts.

ena Middle School 7th grade Battle of the Books A-Team won the DeQueen-Mena Education Co-op Battle of the Books. The A-Team members are: Allie Martin, Maddison Blair, Ciara Lance, and Kyleigh Johnson. The 7th grade B-Team placed 2nd. The 7th Grade B-Team members are: Stephanie Lua, Eli Henderson, London Copelin, and Jaxom Hughes. “It was a TEAM Mena Playoff! Way to go MMS 7th grade,” said MMS Counselor, Leilani Rose. The 8th grade students also did a great job at Battle of the Books. Those team members were: Jennifer Adams, Caleb Baber, Teresa Cude, and Hannah Willis.

April 6, 2016

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

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 Baseball and Softball Complex • New Elementary Playground • Newly Remodeled PE Facility • State Champion Quiz Bowl Team • Rated “A” by Arkansas Department of Education • Accredited by AdvanceED

School Choice Deadline is May 1st!

Applications can be picked up at the central office on Acorn Campus (143 Polk 96) or online at ouachitariversd.org and turned in by May 1st.

479-394-2348

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

April 6, 2016

NAME

mms

Ti Coach: Tyler

OPPONENT Dierks Horatio* Prescott* Prescott* Genoa Central* Centerpoint* Caddo Hills

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Ed & Dorothy Stevenson

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to the 2016 Cossatot River Baseball & Softball Teams!

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5594 Hwy 71 S, Cove 870-387-5271

GO EAGLES!

LOCATION Home Home Home Home Genoa Central Home Caddo Hills

12 12 12 12 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

ylor

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TIME 4:00 5:00 3:30 5:30 4:30 4:30 4:30

Conference Game*

Stevenson Tree Farms

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

Grade

Caylee Mitchell Hope Lyle Kara Richardson Sam Hill Kenzie Whorton Mackenzie Winkley Rebecca Harris Bianca Ralls Jade Richardson Lauren Driver Lexy Taylor Madison Hernandez Miriam Curlott Reeselyn Manasco Rhyen Martin Shanna Johnson

DATE 4/7 4/8 4/11 4/11 4/18 4/21 4/26

April 6, 2016

DATE 4/8 4/11 4/18 4/21 4/25 4/26

OPPONENT Horatio* Prescott* Genoa Central* Centerpoint* Horatio* Caddo Hills

LOCATION Home Home Genoa Central Centerpoint Home Caddo Hill

TIME 4:30 3:30 4:30 4:30 5:00 4:30

Conference Game*

Good Luck, Eagles!

Monday - Saturday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sundays 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

5588 Hwy 71 S. • Cove, AR 71937 870-387-2190

Deli

Go Eagles! OPEN 24 HOURS / 7 DAYS 5602 Hwy 71 S., Cove 870-387-6031

(On the corner of Hwy 71S & Hwy 4 in Cove)

Good Luck,

Grannis/Broken Bow Complex

2016 Cossatot River Baseball & Softball Teams!

Proud supporters of the

Supercenter 67

Cossatot River Eagles!

600 Hwy 71 N, Mena

NAME

GRADE

Tristan Ludlow Hunter Johnson Konnor Mckee Christian Ratliff Bailey Wise Brady Canada Reed Bowen Cody Chandler David Davis Dusty Kesterson Cody Brown Ty Phillips Brayden Smith Matthew Littell Andy Brown Dakota Frachiseur Monty Lloyd Jonathon Rye Austin Price

12 12 12 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9

Good Luck to the 2016 Cossatot River Eagles!

515 Janssen, Mena

394-4140

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April 6, 2016

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Tori Buss – Celebrating Second Chances S

BY RENEE HENDRIX

reneehendrix38@yahoo.com

econd chances in this life are rare and hard to come by, but for one Polk County native who received this extraordinary second lease of life, it’s one that she not only treasures but uses it to share her incredible testimony to groups large and small, boldly crediting her physical and spiritual healing to a gracious God. February 2015 was probably not remarkable to most of us… and in fact, few could recall the events of that month. But for Tori Buss, it was life changing. Her life literally hung in the balance from years of poor choices but through the loving, devoted prayers of her family, she not only survived, but has become an activist speaking to youth warning against the experimentation of drugs, that can quickly spiral into a life of addiction. Tori Michelle Buss was born in 1992 to Scott Buss and Mitzi French. She was raised in church and in a loving family but at a young age she began experimenting with drugs. Like many vulnerable youth, the experimentation spiraled downward into a dark pit that ultimately caused Buss to lose six years of her life to addiction. Years that she would never get back. Drug addiction has profound ripple effects and hurts the loved ones of the user as well. Among many lessons learned, Buss is quick to tell youth that there is much more to life than getting high and “having fun.” She continued, “The greatest of all the feelings I have felt during my recovery is love, the love of a supporting family. I am 10 months clean, sober and the happiest I have ever been.” In February of 2015 Buss laid in what many feared to be her death bed. Years of bad decisions had landed her in the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital and eventually she would be fighting for her very life. Buss had developed septicemia and for several days her family was un-sure she would ever awaken from the coma she had fallen into. Through this heart wrenching time, Buss’s family - her parents and step-father Jerry French, three siblings, Lindsey, Johnathan and Hunter, along with three beautiful nephews and devoted grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins - called upon the community and fellow warriors during Buss’ most critical time. After 12 days that seemed like an eternity to family, she was taken off the ventilator. Buss gives all the glory to God and thanks Him daily for this new lease on life; for His always guiding hand, and for keeping her and protecting her through her years of drug abuse. She finds great comfort in Ephesians 4:7 - “But unto everyone of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” Buss emerged from a lifeless existence and dulled feelings to what she describes as a reWeekly Publication birth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .She . . . . feels . . . . .genuine . . . . . . . emotions . . . . . . . . .again . . . . . due . . . . to . . her . . . .cleansed . . . . . . . . mind . . . . .and . . . .heart, which is clean from all the drugs and junk that had altered her very being. “Without Him first, I would not have been able to have made it this far in my recovery.” She credits God for the biggest transformation and being completely renewed. She considers herself to still be a work in progress but is very proud of her continued success and is grateful for the opportunity to share all that God has delivered her through. She spoke in 2015 to hundreds of students during the local Fields of Faith event held at Bearcat Stadium and continues to share her story in hope of helping someone else. She is currently employed at Factory Connection where Buss was given a chance by Ms. Kathy Hughes and has worked diligently. She has become confident in the person she has become. Buss stated, “I know that this couldn’t have been possible without the help of my Heavenly Father, Thank you Jesus for the wakeup call. I choose to live for you.” Buss is a living testament of 2 Corinthians 5:17 - “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away, behold all things become new.”

“The greatest of all the feelings I have

during my recovery is love, the love of a supporting family. I am 10 months clean, sober and the happiest I have ever been... Without Him [God] ﬁrst, I would not have been able to have made it this far in my recovery.”

at Mena

Assisted Living

Call us to set up a tour. • Meals and medication assistance • Weekly housekeeping • Transportation • Activity Programs

479-243-0033

1341 Mena Street, Mena www.theoaksatmena.com

business

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Pleasant Hills Animal Clinic - Dedicated to Your Critters

BY RENEE HENDRIX

reneehendrix38@yahoo.com

leasant Hills Animal Clinic is a fresh new name to a well known local Establishment-Town and Country Vet Clinic. Along with their brand new name, the clinic will be making more changes in the future. Among the wonderful staff they have employed, there are three doctors, Dr. Gordon McDonald, Dr. Ann Hatley and Dr. Crystal Garner. With this brilliant staff of doctors, they bring to you years of experience of quality tender loving care to your furry babies. The clinic is open from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Along with the veterinarians, there are also four other staff members to assist you: Emily Pullen, Mary Lewis, Bonnie Chadwick and Debbie Eaton. Offering a wealth of knowledge and comprehension of what good quality animal care is all about, McDonald stated, Commercial “The great thing about our practice is that we gen- An Affordable and Residential Plan for Everyone uinely care for animals. It’s not just a job. Every Termites • Household Pests single person puts everything into it and we work Bed Bugs • Fire Ants diligently to get them home healthy.” Polk County 479-234-2038 Pleasant Hills Animal Clinic offers a variety Scott County 479-637-6064 of services. They can perform everything from 5 Year No Price Increase Guarantee ultrasounds and x-rays to in-house lab work. They have a full staff at all times that is ready to take care of all your animal needs. Pleasant Hills is also a well-equipped pet hospital. McDonald explained they have the experience necessary to take-in even the most complicated cases, including surgical, until your pet is healed and back up on all fours. Another pet project for McDonald and his crew January 6, 2016 is educating pet owners on the importance of heartworm prevention. McDonald contributed the local population increase of infected CALL 479-243-9600 heartworm animals to Hurricane Katrina. One of the new services they look forward to providing in the future is an injectable heartworm medicine that will last for six months. They will be able to pair this with a ﬂea and tick pill that lasts for three months. Essentially, McDonald explained, with two pills and the heartworm injection, pet owners will only have to frequent the clinic twice a year, creating the ideal situation for pet owners with very hectic lifestyles. Dr. McDonald says that surgery is his specialty and, in fact, travels statewide performing advanced surgical procedures. This clinic is one of only three practices in the state that provide tibial tuberosity advancement for cranial cruciate “Serving your families with ruptures and they are the only clinic within a 100-mile radius with a surgical laser. With all of these imDignity & Care for over 80 years” pressive services, they also take care of the basics, providing baths and boarding, as well. Basically, Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent all you could want is in one single Member of the National Funeral place. Directors Assoc. Manufacturer Pleasant Hills Animal Clinic 611 Janssen, Mena, AR of Quality CNC Parts is thankful to Polk County for 15 (479) 394-1310 479.394.4248 years of great customers. McDon104 Port Arthur Avenue ald said, “We feel blessed to have Mena, AR 71953-3344 such a great client base here. We are making changes and we feel like we provide the most services here in town. We would like everyFULL ATV one to know we will provide quality, SERVICE precise work and the best care we & REPAIR can … and that we feel you could 71N/Hwy 88E Junction possibly get.” nuary 6,Hwy 2016 Weekly Pub

ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY $25 A WEEK

Beasley-Wood Geyer-Quillin Funeral Home

“We feel blessed to have such a great

client base here. We are making changes and we feel like we provide the most services here in town. We would like everyone to know we will provide quality, precise work and the best care we can... and that we feel you could possibly get.”

(Behind Terminix) 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY

479-394-4535 Open 7 Days a Week

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Full Line Drugstore Large Selection of Gifts

Like us on Facebook!

710 4th Street Mena, AR

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. • 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Sun. • Closed

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

sports

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Wickes Elementary Archery W

ickes Elementary 4th & 5th Grade Archery Team is a ďŹ rst year team that has had success in competition, both regionally and statewides. The team placed second in the elementary school division at the regional archery tournament in Clarksville on Saturday, February 27, 2016 which earned them a spot to compete in the state archery tournament on Friday, April 1, 2016 in Hot Springs. Team member, Edwyn Luna scored third place overall in the competition within the Elementary division with a total score of 256 out of 300. Pictured are: (front row from left) Edwyn Luna, Jackson Dering, Kyla Ferguson, Ale Rodriguez, Kimberly Rodriguez; (second row from left) Memo Ambriz, Madalyn Dixon, Lacy Floyd, Emily Ugarte, Xitlali Trinidad, Brayton Flournoy; (third row from left) Ashley Castro, Reagan Bills, Mallory Farringer, Landrey Richardson, Chelsea Carterby, Summer Carterby, Noah Richardson; (top row from left) Coach Shelly Speight, Lucas Trinidad, Brialee Dotson, Kaylee Williams, Travis Taylor, Luke Floyd, Coach Angie Richardson. The Wickes Straight Shooters is made up of 6th and 7th grade students who currently attend Wickes Elementary or who attended Wickes Elementary in the previous school year. The team competes in the Middle School Division, which is comprised of teams of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. The team placed second in the middle school division at the regional archery tournament in Clarksville, which earned them a spot to compete in the state archery tournament on Friday, April 1, 2016 in Hot Springs. Logan Dixon scored 5th overall in the tournament with a score of 284 out of 300, and was ranked 4th overall among all males competing that day. Pictured are: (front row from left) Coach Sharon Miles, Jacey Whisenhunt, Izaq Luna, Pate Taylor, Rendi Warren, Jaden Dering, Laura Flores, Sosha Richardson; (second row from left) Jacob Richardson, Cooper Johnston, Kaylin McKee, Tommie Whitmire, Kelcy Frachiseur, Chloe Sparks, Shannel Brito, Trayton Johnson; (third row from left) Logan Dixon, Kayla Richardson, Teresa Bell, Diana Diaz, Alyssa Wilson, Marissa Hammer, Cody Bagley, Coach Gloria Pritchett.

Acorn Middle & High Archery Teams Compete in the ANASP State Tournament T

he Acorn Archery Middle and High School teams traveled to Hot Springs, to compete in the ANASP, State Archery Tournament. The Acorn Archery High School Team placed 9th overall in the State of Arkansas. The Acorn Archery Middle School Team placed 26 overall in the State of Arkansas. Acorn Archery had three who placed in the top ďŹ ve of their respective divisions, with each receiving an invitation to National Completion in Louisville, Kentucky in May. Nationals-bound Acorn Tigers are: Jacob Moore, who placed 2nd overall in the Middle School Male Division with a score of 288; Brody Webb, who placed 3rd overall in the Middle School Male Division with a score of 286; and Bridgette Magness, who placed 2nd overall in the High School Female Division with a score of 284. Magness also received a $2000 college scholarship for her accomplishment.

Mena High School Archery Competes in NASP Regional Competition The Mena High School Archery Team recently competed in the NASP Archery Regional competition at the Clarksville High School gymnasium. The team placed 3rd and advanced to the State competition at the Hot Springs Convention Center on April 2. Cole McMellon shot a score of 286 out of 300 points giving him the 2nd highest score in the High School division.

Weekly Publication

Bearcat Track Takes Big Strides

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

sports

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ena High School Track & Field athletes traveled to Mansfield on Tuesday, March 29, to compete in the Mansfield Tiger Relays. Both boys and girls faired well in the competition, with the boys receiving a plaque for runner-up in team scoring. Senior Zach Jewell won High Point Individual, receiving first place in all of his events – 100m dash with a time of 10.69 seconds, 200m dash with a time of 21.88 seconds, a 22 ft. 3.5 in. long jump, and a triple jump of 43 ft. In the 400m dash, Ty Cole placed 8th, while William Shaner just missed winning a ribbon, placing 9th. Cole also competed in the triple jump and placed 5th with a jump of 39 ft. 2.5 in. Anthony Kennedy placed 3rd in the 800m run, just ahead of Cross Hughes who placed 4th. In the 1,600m run, Clint Buck placed 4th and Robert McIntyre placed 7th. Both Buck and McIntyre ran in the 3,200m run and came across the line less than a second apart, taking 2nd and 3rd, respectively. Ty Cole placed 4th in the 110m hurdles and David Odom placed 7th. Odom also competed in the 300m hurdles placing 5th. The 4x100m relay team placed 8th and the 4x800 relay team grabbed 2nd. On the ladies side, Jayzlee Bahr placed 6th in the 100m dash, 4th in the 200m dash, 2nd in long jump with a jump of 14 ft. 9 in. and 1st in the triple jump with a jump of 31 ft. 9.5 in. Janessa Richardson placed 5th in the 400m dash. Abbie Smith placed 7th in the 800m run and 8th in the 1,600m run. The 4x400m relay team placed 6th and the 4x800m relay team got 2nd.

County Schools Baseball/Softball Results

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

Genoa Central Dragons Leave Cossatot River Eagles in Ashes

citizen

The Cossatot River Eagles faced the Genoa Central Dragons on the baseball diamond, Friday, April 1st. The 2 Eagles lost the conference game 14-4, January 6, 2016 leaving the Eagles with a 3-2 season so far. PHOTOS BY SAM MAECHLER

Cossatot River Lady Eagles Claim Victory Against Genoa Central Dragons

The Lady Eagles of Cossatot River High School controlled the field against the Genoa Central Dragons on Friday, April 1st, claiming victory with a score of 4-2. The Lady Eagles now have a softball record of 7-2 for the season. PHOTOS BY SAM MAECHLER

Acorn Tigers Stung by Yellowjackets

The Acorn Tigers faced the Mulberry Yellowjackets on Friday, April 1st, and lost the non-conference game with a final score of 6-3. Acorn Tiger Lane Ferguson was the starting pitcher and had two strikeouts. Ashton Pardon pitched in relief and put three strikeouts under his belt. Pardon also had two RBI’s in the game. Tiger Coach Scott Bohlman said of the first-year team, “This was one of the more complete games we have played this year. It’s still a young team but they are improving and continuing to get better!” PHOTOS BY SAM MAECHLER

calendar

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Thursday, 4/7 •11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/ Polk County meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. •12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open. •12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - The Sonlighters In Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. •5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th Street Ministries building. •5:30 p.m. – Ouachita Regional Hospice’s “Growing Through Grief” support group meets at the Hospice office, 1106 South Mena Street. •5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. •5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – women’s meeting – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy, 71, S., Mena. •6:00 p.m. – Disabled American Veterans & Auxiliary meeting and potluck. Meeting follows dinner, American Legion at Veteran’s Park at Acorn. •6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel music in the Daisy Room at Janssen Ave Florist. •6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. •7:00 p.m. – Big Fork RVFD Business Meeting & Training will be at the Fire Station.

located in the Spencer Building, 1100 College Drive. •6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. •6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – AWANA Clubs meet at Grace Bible Church, Highway 71 North. •6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome. •7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. •7:00 p.m. – Mena Elks Lodge meeting. All Elks are invited to attend. •7:30 p.m. – Mountain Meadow Chapter #22 Order of the Eastern Star meet at the Mountain Meadow Masonic Lodge Hall in Hatfield. Tuesday, 4/12 •8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. •10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the 9th Street Ministries Building. •11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. Bring your current project. •11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Free lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen at Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk 43 (Fairground Road), Mena. •12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters In Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. •12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch Library will be open. •5:00 p.m. - T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weigh-ins, followed by a meeting from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Visitors are welcome. •5:30 p.m. – Second Tuesday Book Club – meets at Christ Episcopal Church, Annex Building, 809 Church Street. •5:30 p.m. – The American Legion Board of Trustees and Auxiliary will meet at the American Legion Building at Veterans Memorial Park. Potluck will be served at 6:00 p.m. The Legion meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. •7:00 p.m. - The Mena Church of Nazarene will have a special service hosting Don & Evie Gardner, missionaries currently serving in Kenya. •7:00 p.m. – The Dallas Valley R.V.F.D. meets for maintenance at the Firehouse. •7:00 p.m. – The Rocky Fire Department meets. All members are encouraged to attend. •7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Bluegrass music at Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room. •8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Wednesday, 4/13 •The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Mena at noon. •10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. - ‘Blood Donor Challenge’ at Rich Mountain Community College. Appointments are encouraged and can be scheduled by calling Casey at 479-652-2364.

•11:30 a.m. – MHS Class of 1959 – will meet at Papa’s Mexican Café. Questions: Call 3946221. •12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open. •12:00 p.m. – Quality of Life Outreach meeting at LaVilla Restaurant. •5:45 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – The Mena First United Methodist Church Kidz will meet. •6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – The Southside Church of God Warriors for Christ will meet. •6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Regeneration Youth Ministries “Regenerating this Generation” at Mena Church of God Hwy 88 East. •6:15 p.m. – Discovery Kids – Kindergarten Thru 5th Grade; Collide Youth Ministry – 6th Thru 12th Grades; and Adult Bible Study at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. •6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. •7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. •7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Inquiry classes into the Catholic Faith begins in the Parish Hall of St. Agnes Catholic Church at 203 8th St. There is no cost or obligation and anyone interested is invited to attend.

BEATS

•7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. •7:00 p.m. – The Ink RVFD Business Meeting & Training will be at the community building. •7:30 p.m. – Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 meets at the Mena Lodge located in the Old Post Office by Janssen Park. Friday, 4/8 •8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Road tests are given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room unless the roads are wet. Written tests are given at 1:00 p.m. •12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. •5:00 p.m. – ABATE (Arkansas Bikers Aiming Toward Education) will be at Sonic Drive In for anyone interested in motorcycles. •6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Wickes First Baptist Church. 107 N 2nd Street, Wickes AR. •7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Dance to Don Thompson & Talimena Drive Band, American Legion, Acorn, $6.00 admission. •8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. Saturday, 4/9 •10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Mena Art Gallery, members of the gallery’s Photo Club will be in Atwood’s parking lot selling 2 hot dogs and a coke for $1. All proceeds go to the Photo Club for awards in the annual Photography Competition. •12:00 p.m. - Ouachita Amateur Radio Association club meeting at the Limetree Inn. Testing will be available. •1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Children’s Art Class at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street, for children 6 to 12 years old. Please call to reserve a spot for your child at 479-394-3880. •6:00 p.m. – Benefit for Monte Gray at the Hatfield Gym – Food, Live Auction and Rifle drawing. Questions, contact Todd Webb 580306-5564 or Shanea Floyd 479-216-0604. •6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. •7:00 p.m. – Holly Grove Church in Grannis will have Gospel Music. •8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous - ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. Sunday, 4/10 •2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. •5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. •6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. Monday, 4/11 •9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – God’s Feeding Hands Mission Center will serve free groceries & free toiletry to the needy at 1200 Reeves Ave, Mena. •12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open. •3:00 p.m. – The Airport Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting, RMCC Boardroom

•PCDC is not accepting recycle plastic of any kind at this time due to commodity market trends. •CEMETERY WORK DAY at the Cherry Hill Cemetery, April 16, 2016. There will be coffee and donuts in the Cemetery Visitor’s Center at 7:00 a.m. Bring a shovel or rake. All flowers need to be removed by Friday, April 15, 2016 or they will be burned the next day. Please do not put out new flowers until Saturday, April 30, 2016. •The RMCC Board of Trustees rescheduled the April meeting from April 13 to April 27 at 5:30 pm in the RMCC Board Room. •THE CITY OF MENA Annual Spring Clean-Up is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, 2016 through Monday, May 2, 2016. The Mena Street Department will begin pick up in the Northwest part of the city and work their way across town following the same routes as Southern Disposal. Trucks will run one to three days after the day of your normal trash pick-up. It is not necessary to call City Hall in order to receive this service.

family

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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POLK COUNTY BIRTHS AT MENA REGIONAL

HEALTH SYSTEM

Caitlyn and Kyle Hensel, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on March 25th. Alecia Thompson and Cody Varner, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 29th. Vanessa and John McIntyre, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 29th.

#LOL

Davis & Ford to Wed

Did you hear about that new broom? A: It’s sweeping the nation!

Welcome Brooks Aaron Miller

Brooks Aaron Miller was born on March 16th at Mena Regional Health System. He weighed 8 pounds and 4 ounces and was 19 inches long. Proud parents are Damon and Kim Miller. Proud brothers are Daeton and Kypton Miller. Proud grandparents are David & Pam Miller, Randy & Summer Backstrom, and Curt & Noveta Leming.

What do you get from a pampered cow? A: Spoiled milk. What do lawyers wear to court? A: Lawsuits! What did Bacon say to Tomato? A: Lettuce get together!

Christina and Thomas Shaver, of Hatﬁeld, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on March 29th.

Q: What do you call a computer that sings? A: A-Dell

Jessica and John Bard, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 31st.

Why did the picture go to jail? A: Because it was framed.

Darryn and Amy Davis announce the upcoming wedding of their daughter, Emily Dawn Davis, to SPC Charles Walter Ford, Jr., son of Cynthia Ford and Terry Ford. The ceremony will take place on April 9th at 2:00 pm at the Ouachita Little Theater, where they met. Reception will follow. Friends and family are invited to attend.

CUTEST PET PIC Hannibal

Hannibal loves his ball his “Paw” got him. He totes it everywhere! He is very loved and spoiled by all his family. His momma is Amanda Chamberlain. 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: e.rowell@mypulsenews.com

Call TODAY! • 479-243-9600

January 6, 2016

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

April 6, 2016

EARLY REGISTRATION FEE $26 • DAY OF THE RACE FEE $30 7:00 a.m. Registration - (All participants must be present by 7:30 a.m.) 8:00 a.m. 5K Run Begins • 8:15 a.m. 5K Walk Begins T-shirts will be given to all pre-registered by April 15th participants on race day. Those registering after April 15, 2016 WILL NOT receive a free t-shirt. Trophies will be awarded to the top overall male and female runners. Medals will be awarded to the top three male and female individuals in each age division. Awards presented ONLY TO THOSE CHIP TIMED! WEAR WHITE TO BEGIN THE RACE AND BECOME A RAINBOW THROUGHOUT THE RACE!

Prom Night SAFETY April 6, 2016

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

Cossatot River High School - April 9th Mena High School - April 16th Acorn High School - April 26th H.E.D.G.E ‘s Family Night - May 7th

Mullen Construction

Rondal & Teresa Mullen

710 4th Street, Mena, AR Hours Mon. - Fri. 8a.m.-6p.m. Sat. • 9a.m. - 12:30p.m. Sun. • Closed

479-234-1745 • rmullen@sbcglobal.net

PONDS-CLEARING-BACKHOE-TOP SOIL

• In the weeks before the prom, set aside time to talk with your teenager about the prom and about safety. • Participate in your teen’s prom preparations. While your teen is preparing for the big night, it’s a good idea to have some open discussions about safety issues, including driving, drinking, and post-prom parties. • Discuss what limits and guidelines you want to set with your teen. • Be sure your teenager has safe transportation for the entire evening. Provide transportation if needed. • Stress that under no circumstances should he/she get into a car with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs. • Make a backup plan just in case. • Decide if you want to revisit discussions you’ve had in the past about sex and about risky behaviors. • Talk with your teen about peer pressure. • Make sure you know your teen’s date or the friends they’ll be going with. • Consider holding a post-prom party at your home. • On the night of the prom if your teen plans on attending a party before or afterwards, get the address and phone numbers. • Remind your teen to call home if there is any change in plans. • If your teen plans on sleeping at a friend’s house, contact the friend’s parents to conﬁrm the arrangements. Have your teenager call you once he/she reaches his/her friend’s house. • If you’re available on prom night, let your teen know that if he/she runs into trouble you’ll pick him/her up, regardless of the time.

Licensed and Bonded

1506 Hwy 71 S., Mena, AR 71953 Phone (479) 394-6521

515 Janssen, Mena • 394-4140

479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344

MENA | HATFIELD & WICKES 479-394-2211 www.unionbankofmena.com

1317 Highway 71 South, Mena

479-394-6762

SUPERCENTER 67 600 Hwy. 71 N

. . .April . . . . .6,. .2016 ......................................................................................................................

at the capitol

Weekly Publication

Legislature to Begin Special Sessions in April L

CONTRIBUTED BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE

ITTLE ROCK – The legislature begins several weeks of intense activity when it is scheduled to convene in special session on April 6, followed by a fiscal session that is scheduled to begin on April 13. The special session will be limited to health care issues. Legislators will consider changes to the Medicaid program. Specifically, the legislature will consider proposals by the governor to extend Medicaid coverage to adults with yearly incomes of up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level. Medicaid already covers children in low-income families through a program called ARKids First. The governor has proposed naming it Arkansas Works. One of its components would encourage recipients to seek job referrals. The Health Reform Legislative Task Force has voted to endorse Arkansas Works. The task force is composed of eight senators and eight representatives. Of the 16 task force members, 10 voted in favor of the governor’s Medicaid extension, two voted against it and four did not vote. However, the task force was divided on the issue of managed care. Two competing proposals are under discussion. One has the governor’s support and the other is backed by a group of legislators. Both have similar goals, but would achieve those goals through different methods. Both plans would greatly hold down Medicaid costs – the governor’s by an estimated $1.4 billion over five years and the alternative by $1 billion, also over a five year period. The estimates were made by a private consultant hired by the task force. The plans differ in how they would assign financial risks in the event cost savings were not realized. Also, both plans would allocate funds to benefit people with developmental disabilities who are on a waiting list for services that help them live more independently, either in their own homes, in the home of a family member or in an alternative residence. Some benefits include paying a caregiver when non-paid family members are absent. Some people need special equipment that helps them with daily tasks. The competing plans differ in the source of funding and in amounts of services that would be available to individuals on the list. Both proposals are supported by legislators who want to reduce or eliminate the waiting list. There are 2,640 people on the waiting list. Last year 4,124 Arkansas residents with developmental disabilities received services that cost the state and federal governments almost $205 million, according to the task force consultant. The special session will be limited to consideration of Medicaid and health care issues. Medicaid is a government health coverage program for people with low incomes and people with disabilities. It pays for the majority of nursing home care in Arkansas. In general, federal funding pays for 70 percent of Medicaid costs and state funding covers the rest. In more prosperous states the federal government pays a smaller share of Medicaid. The formula is based on per capita income and poverty levels. The fiscal session will be devoted to budget bills for all state government agencies. In past fiscal sessions, which are held in even number years, the legislature has approved about 300 separate appropriation bills. While changes in Medicaid services will be considered during the special session, the appropriation that authorizes Medicaid spending will be voted on during the fiscal session.

Leading Efforts to Fix Veterans Choice Program CONTRIBUTED BY U.S. SENATOR JOHN BOOZMAN

orris, an 85-year-old Korean War veteran from Arkansas, had a medical emergency and urgently needed to see a specialist. He was told it would take up to two months to see a doctor at the Little Rock Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility. After waiting two weeks to schedule an appointment, he called my office for help. My staff and I were able to help get him an appointment with a doctor at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Our nation promised veterans access to quality health care for their service and sacrifice. Like Morris, many Arkansas veterans have experienced hassle and frustration with the VA when seeking medical care. This is one of the top issues I’ve heard from Arkansas veterans and members of Veteran Service Organizations. That’s why Congress passed the Veterans Choice Act in 2014. One of the highlights of the law is that it allows veterans who live 40 miles or more from a VA health facility to see non-VA providers. After hearing from Arkansas veterans who were denied participation in the program based on the mileage, I learned that the VA was misinterpreting this provision. VA calculated the distance from a veterans’ residence to the VA facility using a straight line instead of the accurate mileage using driving distance. Last year, my colleagues and I successfully urged VA to update the criteria for eligibility of the Veterans Choice program to more accurately reflect the distance veterans live from VA medical facilities. While Congress has made improvements, there is still work to do. As a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I’ve talked with VA officials, including Secretary Robert McDonald, about the shortcomings of VA’s implementation of the program. It’s clear that the Veterans Choice program isn’t working as intended and needs fixing.

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agriculture

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Common Plants Poisonous to Livestock L

BY CARLA VAUGHT, COUNTY EXTENSION AGENT

cvaught@uaex.edu

ivestock are poisoned each year by toxic plants that can be very common in our pastures and hay meadows. All plants do not contain the same toxin or poison. There are at least six different classes of poisons within plants. Two of the most common are the alkaloids and the glycosides. Within each of the six classes of poisons, there are several different poisonous compounds. Just because you have a poisonous plant in your pasture doesn’t mean it will cause death. There are several reasons it may not. 1) animals may not be attracted to eating the plant, 2) toxin level in the plant may go up and down and may actually not be high enough to cause an effect at the time it is eaten, 3) the type of animal eating the plant may have some immunity to the toxin in the plant, 4) all parts of the plant may not be poisonous, and 5) the toxin may have cured out in the baling process or silage process or it may be diluted with other non-poisonous plants as the animal grazes. There are some plants that are more of a hazard than others. These are plants that are more abundant in an area, contain a more deadly poison, or ones that animals actually seek out and selectively graze. Livestock losses due to poisonings can be minimized by learning to identify the plants, using weed control, improving grazing practices, and by keeping desirable forages healthy and thick by fertilizing and managing according to soil testing recommendations. Avoiding grazing areas at key toxicity stages of the poisonous plants is also a recommended practice. There are over 45 “common” poisonous plants in our Arkansas pastures. Here is a list of the 23 that are “most likely” to cause toxicity issues with Arkansas livestock: Johnsongrass; Perilla Mint; Oak trees; Wild Cherry trees; Redroot Pigweed; Larkspur; Coffee Senna; Sicklepod; Sesbania; Woody Nightshade; Deadly Nightshade; Ground Cherry; Water Hemlock; Poison Hemlock; Black Locust; Pokeweed; Jimsonweed; Bracken Fern; White Snakeroot; Buttercup; Equisetum; Hemp Dogbane; and Ergot in Dallisgrass and Tall Fescue. We have an extension publication available free of charge called “Common Arkansas Plants Poisonous to Cattle” available at the County Extension Office at 211 DeQueen Street or on our website at www.uaex.edu. The direct link is: https://www. uaex.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-3025.pdf You can also google the title of the fact sheet as I wrote it above. This fact sheet lists the 23 plants mentioned in this article and tells what part of the plant, the stage of growth, the symptoms of poisoning; and any notes on treatment. Your county extension office is open to the public from 8 to 12 and 1 to 5 M-W each week. We can be reached by phone at 479-394-6018 or by email at polk-mena@ uaex.edu

January 6, 2016

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history

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Moments From America’s History: The 17th Amendment CONTRIBUTED BY JEFF OLSON • olsonjd@arkansas.net

he Framers of America’s Constitution were a wise lot. Based on the lessons of history and humanity’s fallen condition, they sought to reconcile the need for a strong federal government with the need for individual liberty and for the guarantee and protection of state and local autonomies. They knew that America would grow and her needs would expand in the coming years and, with this, her Constitution would need adjustments to accomodate and reflect such needs. However, the best they could do then was to prescribe the manner of change but not the substance of those changes. The substance in each of the 17 amendments ratified since 1791 haven’t necessarily been ones our Founders would have agreed with, but their primary concern was that the amendment process be at the disgression of the people through the states - not the federal regime. Case in point - the 17th Amendment: Article I, Section 3 of the Constitution states that “The Senate of the U.S. shall be composed of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Legislature....” To have all three branches of the federal government dependent on the existence of the states was an integral part to federalism which not only preserved the state’s inherited autonomy but also provided them more power to protect their sovereignty. It was also a design to help offset the excesses of democracy which could result in the tyranny of the majority. In Federalist #44, James Madison explained that the state legislatures are to serve as intermediate powers in a key role as watchdogs over the federal government to help prevent abuses. He stated, “Whenever power may be necessary for the national government, a certain portion must be necessarily left with the states, it is impossible for one power to pervade the extreme parts of the United States so as to carry equal justice to them. The state legislatures also ought to have some means of defending themselves against the encroachments of the national government.” This design worked well for quite a few years, but then problems with senate elections began to occur. Some state legislatures deadlocked over the election of a senator when different parties controlled different houses, and Senate vacancies lasted months or years. In other cases, special interests or political machines gained control over the state legislature. Progressive reformers dismissed individuals elected by such legislatures as puppets and the Senate as a “millionaire’s club” serving powerful private interests. The first proposal to amend the Constitution to elect senators by popular vote was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1826, but the idea did not gain strong support until the late 19th century. The LOCAL rise of the People’s Party, commonly referred to as the Populist Party, added motivation for making the 1. Mark Campbell Day Proclaimed Senate more directly accountable to the people. By the early 1900s, over 30 states have passed motions 2. HB1376 Passes House calling for reforms and when the number of applications from states for a constitutional convention ap3. Quorum Court Approves Proposed Jail proached two-thirds, Congress acted. In 1911, the House of Representatives passed House Joint Resolution 39 proposing a constitutional amendment for direct election of senators. An amended Joint Resolution Site was adopted by Congress in 1912 and on April 8, 1913, three-quarters of the states ratified the proposed resolution and it became the 17th Amendment. While the 17th Amendment was in great part an effort to reduce corruption at the state political level, NATIONAL the elimination of this part of the Constitution’s delicate mechanism of federalism is still unfortunate 1. Obama Seeks Public, Congressional because of a lack of virtue by Backing of “Robust and Verifiable” Iran our leaders and a failure in Deal vigilence by the people. How• Robbins Hired as Loan Officer at Union Bank ever, it is representative of an 2. U.S., Iran Differ on Pace on Sanctions • State Highway Chair Discusses I-49 at Local Rotary age-old pattern and continuing Relief under Final Deal trend of diminishing state and Meeting 3. Rolling Stone Retracts University of local powers which plagues • Ellison Proposes Plan to Jail Committee Virginia Rape Story After Probe Finds America to this day.

IN THE NEWS One Year Ago

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• Frost Takes on New ESC Position •Postage Stamp Prices Drop in April

arts

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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OLT Volunteers Construct Set for their Upcoming Musical “Oliver!” SUBMITTED BY BETH MCMILLEN

hen we go to the theatre, we take our seats, relax, the curtain opens and the magic begins! The first thing we notice is the set. It can take us back in time or to another place. What goes into making a set? The Director, or set designer, reviews the play to see what is needed to create the physical world of the play. “Oliver!” takes place in London 19th century. The set is indescribable; there are three major moveable platforms with walls that appear and disappear and can be arranged in six different ways to form the workhouse, Fagin’s Den, The Three Cripples, Paddington Square and London Bridge. After deciding what is needed and making drawings of each scene, the work begins. Jessica Kropp, Stage Manager and Mena High School Drama Teacher, does an excellent job of coordinating the scene changes and keeping everything organized. To construct the set, it takes carpenters, welders, painters, and many man hours. Tables, and benches are constructed and painted, and curtains are made. Many of the actors joined the OLT stage crew volunteers to create the set. Artistic Painters Lorraine Timmerman and daughter, Laurie Alsobrook, did a great job in recreating the 1800s scene of London! When the construction crew, painters and artistic painters complete their 6, work, January 2016 it takes the light designer to set the mood for each scene. The very capable Robby Burt is the Light Designer for this production. When all the work has been completed, the set will come alive under the lighting set by him. The story “Oliver!” is based on Charles Dickens “Oliver Twist” written in 1838. Music and lyrics were written by Lionel Bart. Directed by Rudi Timmerman and featuring 50 excited actors and actresses, this show is sure to please the entire family. Judy Kropp will serve as Music Director. “Oliver!” runs from April 15-17 and 22-24 at OLT. For more information and to like us on Facebook, please visit our website at ouachitalittletheatre.org

Hot Dogs and Summertime CONTRIBUTED BY BARBARA M. TOBIAS • barbtobias09@gmail.com kay, so it is not quite summertime, but Atwood’s is hosting a hot dog fundraiser to benefit the annual Photography Competition at Mena Art Gallery. On Saturday, April 9, from 10 am to 2 pm, members of the gallery’s Photo Club will be in Atwood’s parking lot selling 2 hot dogs and a coke for $1. All proceeds go to the Photo Club for awards in the annual Photography Competition. The weather forecast is for partly cloudy and cool, so let’s pretend it’s summertime, buy some hot dogs, have fun, and help the Photo Club earn the award money for another great photography show. You photographers might consider bringing your camera along to see if you can get a shot that you like well enough to enter in the show. Entry date is June 1 with the exhibit on display for the month of June and the reception from 1 to 3 pm on Saturday, June 4. Details and entry forms are on the gallery website: www. MenaArtGallery.org.

PIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD: APPLE • BLACKBERRY • BLUEBERRY • BOB ANDY • BOSTON CREAM • BRIDIE • BUKO • BUTTERMILK • CHERRY • CHESS • COTTAGE • CURRY • DERBY • EMPANADA • KEY LIME • KUCHEN • LEMON MERINGUE • MEAT • MINCE • MUD • PASTILLA • PEACH • PECAN • PUMPKIN • RHUBARB • SCOTCH • SHEPHERDS • SHOOFLY • SWEET POTATO • WOOLTON

police

April 6, 2016

Weekly Publication

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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 March 27, 2016 Report was taken of an altercation between two local women. Case is pending further investigation. Janese Julian, 32, of Mena and Shannon Conatser, 45, of Vian, Oklahoma were each charged with third degree battery after a call to a local residence. March 28, 2016 Report was made of a shoplifter at a local farm store. Case is pending location and interview of suspect. March 29, 2016 Officers were called to assist emergency medical personnel with an unruly patient. No arrests were made. March 30, 2016 Brianna S. Vanauken, 33, of Mena was charged with theft of property (shoplifting) after a call to a local grocery store. March 31, 2016 Report was taken of a verbal altercation at a local apartment complex. Neither party wished to press charges. April 1, 2016 Michael Lee Brown, 30, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Montgomery County. April 2, 2016 Jason Chester Robertson, 37, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Vicky Lee Franz, 52, of Mena was charged with public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. Polk County Sheriff’s Department March 28, 2016 Report from complainant on Polk 168 near the Potter community of the theft of water and equipment, totaling losses at $300.00. The equipment has been recovered, and information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department was Thomas W. Duncan, 45, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. March 29, 2016 Report from complainant on Polk 663 near the Cherry Hill community of a break-in that caused $30.00 in damages to doors. Investi-

gation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 681 in the Cherry Hill community of the fraudulent use of credit cards, totaling losses at $494.72. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 29 in Hatfield of the break-in and theft of electronics and hunting equipment, all valued at $450.00. Investigation continues. March 30, 2016 Arrested was Trever L. Cockburn, 18, of Mena, on a Charge of Disorderly Conduct. Arrested was Matthew E. Cannon, 35, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. Arrested was Seth A. Wolf, 24, of Fayetteville, on Warrants for Probation Violation and Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report from complainant on Polk 42 near the Potter community of being harassed by acquaintances. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report of a domestic disturbance on Highway 88 East near the Yocana community led to the arrest of Kenneth D. Frost, 43, of Mena, on a Charge of Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. Report of a missing $100 bill led to a 15-year-old male being issued a Juvenile Citation for Theft of Property, and a 16-yearold male being issued a Juvenile Citation for Theft by Receiving. The cash was recovered. Both juveniles were released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested was Jereme L. Walker, aka Jereme L. Baughman, 38, of Durant, OK, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report from a Mena woman of a missing family member. Arrested was Nathaniel A. Cole, 18, of Mena, on a Warrant for Residential Burglary. March 31, 2016 Report of inappropriate material on a cell phone led to a 17-year-old Mena male being issued a Juvenile Citation for Possessing Sexually Explicit Material. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Report from a Texas man of problems regarding child custody exchange while in Polk County. Report from complainant on Polk 89 near Mena of financial identify fraud, totaling losses at $606.55. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 667 near the Opal community of a structure fire. Report of a runaway juvenile being in Polk County led to a 16-year-old Fort Smith female being issued a Juvenile Citation for Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested was Kenneth J. Chaney, 21, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. Arrested was Mariah R. Fender, 40, of

Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. April 1, 2016 Report from complainant on Evans Circle in Mena of being harassed by acquaintances. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Andrew D. Bell, 34, of Arkadelphia, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear and a Montgomery County Warrant. April 2, 2016 Traffic stop on Polk 37 near the Potter community led to the arrest of Shannon M. Taylor, 51, of Mena, on a Charge of Public Intoxication. Arrested was Brianna S. Vanauken, 33, of Mena, on two Warrants for Failure to Comply

with a Court Order. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was John E. Kimzey, 49, of Hatfield, on a Warrant for Disorderly Conduct. April 3, 2016 Arrested was Justin L. Mitchell, 35, of Dequeen, on a Body Attachment Warrant. Arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department was Tracy Strother, 21, of Cove, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates; with 2 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

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April 6, 2016

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Public School Choice in Arkansas allows students to attend a public school in a district other than the one in which they reside. The applications must be made by May 1, 2016, to qualify for provisions under the Arkansas Public School Choice Act of 2013. Pursuant to standards adopted by a nonresident district may reserve the right to accept or reject applicants based on capacity of programs, class, grade level or school building. Likewise, a nonresident district’s standards may provide for rejection of an applicant based upon the submission of false or misleading information to the above listed request for information when that information directly impacts the legal qualifications of an applicant to transfer pursuant to the School Choice Act. However, a nonresident district’s standards shall not include an applicant’s previous academic achievement, athletic or other extracurricular ability, handicapping conditions, English proficiency level, or previous disciplinary proceedings, except that an expulsion from another district may be included pursuant to Ark. Code Ann 618510. Priority will be given to applicants with siblings attending the district. The nonresident district shall accept credits toward graduation that were awarded by another district and award a diploma to a nonresident district’s graduation requirements. Applications postmarked or delivered to the Superintendent of Schools no later than May 1 for a child to be able to enroll for the fall semester. Transfers shall be granted on a nondiscriminatory basis. 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 public school. The following districts comply with this public school announcement: Ashdown, Caddo Hills, Cossatot River, DeQueen, Dierks, Foreman, Horatio, Mena, Mineral Springs, Mount Ida, Nashville and Ouachita River. (DMESC:22;w288)

Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair, decks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870334-2068. 4/20

For a lawn and garden your neighbors will envy, call the lawn service with green thumbs and orange shirts. Dugan Lawn Care & Landscaping, lawn care done right. (479) 394-2699. 4/6

Clean & Comfortable housing since 1969, J. Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479-394-1252. TFN

Harris Fence serving Mena & surrounding areas chain link, privacy and vinyl no job too small, repairs & all 501-388-7195 over 20 years exp. 6/1

J & N Dozer – Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dump Truck, 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

For Sale – Price Reduced to $9,500. 2005 Fleetwood Prowler Regal 30’ 5th Wheel camper. In very good condition – 2 slides Hitch included. New roof and new tires. Call 479-234-2795 or 479-394-3950. 4/6

Squeaky Clean Mobile Dog Wash, Dry, Nails, Ears, Brushing, Clipping. Deanna Boyd 479A&J’s Lawn Service and Handy work. 234-1866, I will Aaron – 479-216-9150. come to you. Like Facebook 4/27

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January 6, 2016

Yard Mowing, Weed Eating, Bush Hogging, Handyman Services, Power Washing, Garden Plowing & Tilling. Have Tractor with Implements for larger jobs. Also Chainsaw Work. Bill Duff. Call 479-216-5204. 4/13

Concrete Work licensed, dependable. Call for estimate. William (Jack) Barnes 479-394-6175 or 479-2342608.

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Land for Sale: 3-5 acre tracks. Fourth of mile off Hwy 71 North of Wickes. Call 479-263-9529 before 8 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. 4/27 The Oaks Assisted Living at Mena is currently hiring for a Full-Time CNA. Please apply in person Monday-Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm at 1341 South Mena Street. 4/13

4 Family Yard Sale something for everyone. Twin girl’s wardrobe SZ 6Mon. to 6X Excellent condition. Most are good name brand clothes. Boys SZ 3Mon to 2T, Women’s SZ 14, lots of housewares. Metal shelving, Antique trim, 8’ Garage door and many other items. Highway 344 375 East just past Elks. Friday, April 8th – Saturday, April 9th, 8 am - ?

4/6

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