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Page 12
Light Display on the Way
Photo by Trey Youngdahl
Christmas decor adorns Mena City Hall and downtown, as a “bigger and better” Christmas light display is planned for Janssen Park amid the cancellation of the Christmas Festival. Lights are scheduled to be turned on, and observers will have the ability to tune in for the timed lighting display. Page 11
By Jeri Pearson
Page 11
The finance committees of the City of Mena and the Advertising and Promotion Commission have each met to review 2021 budgets and make proposals to the city and commission. City Treasurer Linda Rexroad said the city’s budget for 2021 will look similar to 2020. “I went with basically the same budget for city based on county sales tax projections, which have been higher this year than in the past.” Rexroad attributes the increase in sales tax to people shopping locally, rather than traveling outside the area due to COVID precautions, as well as
See BUDGET page 2
Commitment to CASA changes outcomes for children
15-year volunteer shares love through service
Students make Regionals
City, AP prepare budgets for approval By Jeri Pearson
Toys for Tots Application and Request for Donations
DAR awards bestowed
December 2, 2020
During the holiday season, we are often reminded to be thankful for what we have and seek opportunities to give to those less fortunate. One volunteer in the community has lived those sentiments through efforts with CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates. Rene Roberts, who donates her time
with bookkeeping and other services to the program, also serves as an advocate for children who need someone to speak for them in court. Roberts, who has been volunteering with CASA for 15 years, said she is so thankful for her family, both growing up and as an adult, that to extend her blessing of a positive family to others has always been part of her. “I can remember when I was a child the first time I had a friend who wanted to invite me over, but she had to ask her mom first, to make sure there was enough food to feed an additional per-
www.lelanordykephotography.com 479.234.9032
son,” she said. “That was the first time I realized not every family was like my family. We were blessed and always had enough - not that there were not tight times, but there was never a question of our needs being provided.” Because not every child lives in an environment such as the one Roberts grew up in or has been able to provide for her family, she said it is important to serve others. “So many of the cases we see through CASA are so much more drastic than food insecurity. These children have of-
See CASA page 2
2 News
December 2, 2020
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
BUDGET
CASA
Internet sales tax revenue being collected in the state. “Despite the revenue being higher, we are keeping the budget the same and not adding additional items,” Rexroad explained. “Revenue will come in above the budgeted amount this year, but I’d rather err on the side of being conservative, just in case it does fall.” Despite overall sales tax being greater in the county this year, the tax revenue generated by the Advertising and Promotion tax, which is applied at dining and lodging facilities, has taken a hit due to many restaurants being closed in March and April, as well as some reduced lodging occupancy due to COVID travel precautions this year. With sales tax revenue for December not yet collected, Polk County reports an increase of $144,828 in 2020 over 2019. That increase includes the months where COVID restrictions were felt financially in March in April, causing a loss of more than $2,600 in sales tax.
ten never experienced what it is like to real“This type of advocacy can be heart ly be loved in a healthy way,” Roberts said. wrenching and tough, because so much “They come in with abuse, tragic backstotrauma and abuse has occurred” Martin ries and so much trauma. It can be heartsaid. “Because of that, we understand not breaking, but what is more heartbreaking everyone can be or should be a CASA. would be to do nothing.” However, there are other ways to support Cynthia Martin, director of CASA, said the children and the CASA program.” Roberts has been a tough and tender case Additional ways to get involved may inworker. clude donating gifts or treats for CASAs to - Cynthia Martin “She has had some very difficult cases, in give to children, gift cards or other monetary fact she had the worst case of abuse that we have donations, or sharing information about the proseen, and her ability to connect with the children and gram. show them love and care, it is like witnessing a miracle to watch the progress some of the children have made because ABOUT CASA of having Rene as their advocate.” CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate Foster parent Kristi Smallwood agrees that Roberts is a for children’s best interests. They stay with each case until valued volunteer. it is closed and the child is in a safe, permanent home. The “Rene is amazing. She truly took the time to get to know program serves children from birth through as the child reour girls, and really our entire family.” Smallwood said. “We mains in care, and often continues that relationship after the have a biological child who is the same age as our adopted case is resolved. children, and Rene always made sure all the children felt inVolunteers work with legal and child welfare professionals, cluded and important. She fought for the best interest of our educators and service providers to ensure that judges have all girls and we are thankful for her everyday. She has become the information they need to make the most well-informed an extended part of our family.” decisions for each child. Volunteers like Roberts are always needed to serve as CAFor more information on CASA of the Ouachita Region, SAs, especially with more cases in the area than there are visit 812 DeQueen, Suite G in Mena, call 479-243-9277 or advocates to assist. check out #casaouachitaregion on Facebook.
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With 22 volunteers for 78 kids , 15 children are without the benefit of a CASA. We need more volunteers!
Baby’s First
CHRISTMAS D
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JAMES 479.234.6244 ERIC 479.243.5549 GENERAL CONTRACTORS RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Editorial 3
December 2, 2020
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Your Pulse! This Gene Stacks “paid advertisement” peddling his opinions is absolutely wrong. Absolute zero - which is -459 degrees F rather than positive - is measurable by anyone with the required equipment and they’ll get the same result. That is called “science” or “the scientific method”. But the absolute standards of behavior Stacks and his ilk demand are in fact men’s interpretations of two-thousand year old writings of other men who interpreted what they believed was “God” sending them messages. Huh? There are varying interpretations and meanings of just about everything in the Bible, and never forget that it has been edited and re-edited, translated and re-translated, for all the two thousand years Christianity has existed. Take “thou shalt not kill”. To advance the concept of “just war”, that commandment is usually interpreted as “thou shalt not murder” - making allowance for a nation’s right and duty to defend its citizens to the death if necessary. Whose interpretation is absolutely right? Or “thou shalt not steal”. If you could save a child’s life by stealing a loaf of bread, would you break that absolute commandment? One of the few things the Baptists get right is “priesthood of the believer”. That means that whoever you listen to, whoever’s interpretation you hear, you must decide for yourself what is right and moral, based on your interpretation of what “God” is saying to you. It’s your life at stake, so you’d better be sure Pastor is right. It puts a lot of responsibility on the individual. No matter how much Gene Stacks or anyone else claims his interpretations are absolute, you and you alone are responsible for accepting or rejecting his opinions. Any man who claims to speak for God is a liar. Of that I am absolutely sure. - Michael Lewey Lord Bless America Our Lord, Our Lord - Oh how America needs you We don’t know the way to turn Although Lord - We know you are near Satan came to deceive and destroy Oh Lord we need you Satan’s works are here to rule Lord you created all And with your help, America will not fall Lord we need you As Christians we are many - not to be undone Lord you sent Jesus your only son - and we believe Lord your power is greater than any other Lord We need you Please look down upon us with your love and grace Please show teh world- Jesus That you stand in our place Amen
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Inez Frachiseur - Grannis
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4 History
THE POLK COUNTY
December 2, 2020
From the
State House of Representatives
time. One of the challengThe dedication of our doctors, nurses and healthes hospitals face right now care professionals is nothis sufficient staffing. In an ing short of heroic. They are effort to address that chalsaving lives, easing pain, and lenge, the state will be expecreating a better future for diting the licensure process Arkansas. These individu- John Maddox for more than 1,000 graduals continue to come into work ev- ating nursing students. ery day, despite the risks they face. While a state task force continues During this season of thanksgiv- to find ways to meet the needs of ing, we want to send a special thank frontline workers, there are ways all you to individuals on the front of us can help. If you have a friend lines. More than 80,000 healthcare or neighbor who works in healthpractitioners and technical healthcare, offer to pick up groceries or care workers call Arkansas home. deliver a meal. Many healthcare And it continues to be a growing workers are being asked to take on industry. The 2020 Arkansas Labor extra hours, so a little help at home and Economic Report listed registered nurses, nursing assistants, li- could go a long way. The best way we can support our censed practical nurses, and medical assistants as some of the state’s healthcare workers now is to do our part. By staying home when top in-demand occupations. The Governor recently created possible, practicing social distancthe COVID-19 Winter Task Force ing, and wearing a mask in public, and appointed 19 physicians, state we can help reduce the spread of officials, and health care executives COVID-19 and keep the virus from to advise him as to the needs of the overwhelming our healthcare promedical community during this viders.
Contact Your Legislators! John Maddox
Larry Teague
Email: john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org Write: 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953
Email:
Call: 479-394-6060
Call: 870-845-5303
Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov Write: P.O. Box 903, Nashville, 71852
From the
State Senate
Pulse
Over the past two years, their child’s treatment plan. few areas in state government Measuring the long-term have changed as much as the success of the reforms will Division of Youth Services. be whether or not juveniles In November of 2018 the change their course in life division began an extenand avoid prison sentences sive overhaul of its physical as adults. facilities, and at the same CARES Act time brought in widespread Larry Teague Relief Funding The CARES Act steering changes in how it handles juveniles who get in trouble with the committee has recommended using $50 million in federal relief funds to law. The legislature embraced those re- hold down expected increases in rates forms by passing Act 189 of 2019, for unemployment insurance. The state Workforce Services Diviwhich put into law many of the ideas that division officials were proposing. sion said that doing nothing would The number of teenagers in custo- cause 2021 tax rates for unemploydy has gone down significantly. Be- ment insurance to significantly infore the reforms, there were 73 juve- crease. Businesses that would be niles in county-run lockups and 352 charged with the largest increases young people in a residential facility would in many cases be the same operated by the division. Earlier this businesses hit hardest by the panyear the division reported that only demic, the division director said. Rates are set based on the amounts six juveniles were in county detention centers and 235 were in residential put into a state unemployment insurance fund, and by factoring in the programs. The division is placing youths in amount of unemployment benefits programs closer to home and has paid to laid off workers. So far this year, there have been closed two detention centers, in Derabout $207 million charges against mott and Colt. Last week it was reported that an- the fund for about 26,000 companies. other former detention center, at Among the most affected businesses Lewisville, will be converted into a are restaurants, hotels, retail stores, substance abuse treatment facility hospitals, clinics and manufacturers. The payment of benefits to laid off for teenagers. Judges who hear juvenile cases said that a treatment center workers could result in rate increases was needed, and were glad to have an of 36 percent for those businesses, the option besides locking up troubled state Commerce Secretary said. He gave the example of one large busiyouths. Some juveniles need drug treat- ness that would see its unemployment ment more than they need to be in insurance costs go up from $21 to custody in a secure detention center, $340 per employee, if nothing is done. The steering committee and legisone judge said. Under Act 189, juveniles are as- lators already had approved putting sessed under a uniform statewide sys- $165 million into the unemployment tem. Previously, in some areas of the trust fund. This second round of state juveniles were placed in custody funding would bring the amount of for relatively minor offenses. Staff are government relief for unemployment instructed to involve parents more in to $215 million.
Obituaries 5
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 2, 2020
Velma Foster
Velma Foster, age 96, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Thursday, November 26, 2020 in Mena. She was born April 15, 1924 in Umpire, Arkansas to the late Flay Pate and the late Fannie Seales Pate. She was united in marriage in Board Camp, Arkansas on December 13, 1952 to Clifton Foster. Velma loved her flowers and enjoyed gardening and being outdoors. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. She loved the Lord and attended church faithfully until she was no longer able. Velma worked at various jobs, Renovo Shirt Factory, Ben Franklin, Zink Drug Store and Parks and Hansen to help provide for her family. She is survived by her sons, Andy C. Foster and wife Kelley of Ponder, Texas, and Randy Foster and wife Regina of Mena, Arkansas, daughter, Pam Miller and husband David of Mena, Arkansas. Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and host of other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents: husband Cliff Foster, daughter Bonnie Lee and son Gaylon Lee. Due to recent health concerns, a private family graveside will be held Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at Old Dallas Cemetery. General Visitation Pallbearers will be her Grandsons. Arrangements are under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Caring for your family since 1928
Locally owned & operated 479-394-1310
611 Janssen Avenue - Mena, AR
BeasleyWoodFuneralHome.com
Rebecca Ann Jordan Jewell
Rebecca Ann (Jordan) Jewell, 56, passed from this life on November 13, 2020 at her home in Hatfield, Arkansas, after a long fight with cancer. She was born January 18, 1964 in Mena, Arkansas to Jimmie and Willene Jordan. Becky was proceeded in death by her mother Willene (Pruitt) Jordan. She is survived by her husband, Dwayne (Butterball) Jewell of Hatfield, AR. Father, Jimmie Jordan of Cove, AR. Sister, Lisa Brett and husband Mike of Cove. Brothers, Leon Jordan and wife Lanette of Hatfield, and John Jordan of Cove. Daughter Bridgett Sparks of DeQueen. Sons: Aaron Myers and wife Seara, and Jamie Jewell of Hatfield. Numerous nieces and nephews. Becky loved spending time with her grandchildren: Shelby, Sean, Beth, Andy, Timberly, AnnaBelle, and Zaden. At Becky’s request, her body has been donated to “The Genesis Legacy program” for the advancement of science. She hoped that by donating her body to science, a greater understanding of the way cancer is formed and grows might contribute to saving others. No memorial is scheduled at this time.
Gladys Mae Tibbs Lacy
Gladys Mae Tibbs Lacy, age 76, of Mena, Arkansas, died Sunday November 22, 2020, at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab. She was born on Thursday, November 25, 1943 to Glen William and Glennia Mae May Miller in Mena, Arkansas. Gladys was a Christian woman who spent her life caring for her family. The love for her family guided her life and filled it with happiness. In her free time, she enjoyed reading. Gladys was very proud of all her family and cherished every moment she had with them. Gladys
was a very hard worker and worked 17 years at US Motors, 15 years at Renova and 5 years at Polar in DeQueen. Gladys enjoyed her M&M’s and her Dr. Pepper’s. She was of the Pentecostal faith and attended Union Mission Pentecostal Church in Mena. Gladys was a loving mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She is preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Donna Wilson; her sister, Jean Singleton and Phyllis Harrison. Gladys is survived by her daughter, Denise Kelsey of Mena; her brother, Larry Miller of Mena; three grandchildren, Jason Jopling of Wickes, Stacy Moreland of Dennison, Ohio and Cole Kelsey of Mena; seven great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. Graveside services will be Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at the Cherry Hill Cemetery with Brother Jimmy Mabry officiating. Visitation will be general on Monday, November 30, 2020 from 9-5 P.M. Funeral services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh. com
Johnita Lamson
Johnita Lamson, age 91, of Cedar Hill, Texas, formally of Mena, Arkansas, died Thursday, November 26, 2020 at her home. She was born on June 1, 1929 to Elmer Sr. and Iler Dot Lovell Reed in Morgan, Texas. Johnita was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, RV Reed Sr. and Ray Reed; one sister, Patsy Ruth Ashmore; and her husband, Kenneth Lamson. Johnita is survived by her seven sons, Donnie Whitten of Cedar Hill, Texas, Dean Whitten of Junction City, Kansas, Danny Whitten of Arlington, Texas, Dennis Whitten of Lorena, Texas, Wayne Lamson of Spring, Texas, Leonard Lamson of Houston, Texas, and Justin Lam-
son of Spring, Texas; one daughter, Judy Hunter of Cypress, Texas; seventeen grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; one great-great grandson; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. Family requests that in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to the National Alzheimer’s Association. A memorial graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas. Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh. com
Joseph Roberts
Joseph Roberts, known by “John” to his family and friends, was born at home on June 10, 1939 in the Mount Pleasant Community about four miles east of Wickes, Polk County, Arkansas. John’s parents were Wayne and Sarah Lillian “Lillie” McCauley Roberts. John was the youngest of 13 children. John’s father, Wayne, passed away a few months before John was born. According to a family story, John’s older brother, Wayne (Known as Junior), decided to call his baby brother “John” shortly after John’s birth. John spent his childhood and teenage years on the family farm attending school at Wickes. John graduated in 1958 and enlisted in the United States Army. John served his country honorably as a soldier in the 101st Airborne Division. On November 22, 1961, John married Glennis Darlene McCarley, daughter of the late Thomas Nelson and Ruby Baker McCarley, with dear friends, Ronney and Carol Mayo Fields in attendance. After John and Darlene married, they resided at various army bases in the US with an overseas deployment to West Berlin, East Germany. Upon return to civilian life, John was employed with Wickes Telephone Company. At John’s retirement, Wickes Telephone Company had become Alltel
Roberts Obituary Continued on Page 6
6 Obituaries Roberts Obituary Continued
Corporation. In addition to his military and telephone careers, John was a lifelong farmer/ rancher. John served as a member of various boards, committees and community organizations including Baker Cemetery board, Commander of Wickes American Legion Post 249, Cossatot Senior Center board, Duckett Cemetery board, election poll worker, Lions Club member, Polk County Farm Bureau board, Wickes Nazarene Church board, and Wickes School Reunion committee. John’s passions included his family, church, community, home, building projects, photography, pitching horseshoes, and sports. John patiently and willingly endured many family vacations, even though his family knew he would have rather stayed home on the farm! A joint singing venture, with the daughters of special friends John and Pat Hill and Bill and Pat Stewart, led to many fun times and miles logged as their daughters, Shanna and Jennifer Hill, Kristy Stewart, and Rhonda and Renea Roberts, formed a band, Sweet Success, that played at local events, Magic Springs and the National FFA Convention. John passed peacefully from this life on November 27, 2020 on the same family farm on which he was born and spent much of his life. At the time of his passing, John was surrounded by his loving family. John is survived by his wife, Glennis Darlene McCarley Roberts and daughters, Rhonda Roberts Coon and husband Flynn Coon of Wickes, Arkansas and Renea Roberts Baker and husband Jeff Baker of Atchison, Kansas. Over the years, John’s family welcomed the following grandchildren: Megan Baker of Lancaster, Kansas; Tyler Coon, wife Cortney Williams Coon and great- grandson Luke Coon of Wickes, Arkansas; Micaela Baker Eckert, husband Andrew Eckert, and great grandchildren Rylan and Rhett Eckert of Atchison, Kansas; McKenzie Buttron Rice and husband Michael Rice of Overbrook, Kansas; Austin Coon of Wickes, Arkansas; and Bailey Buttron, Tanner Buttron, and Macey Baker of Atchison, Kansas. John is survived by two sisters – Alta Mae “Maedell” Roberts Ralls of Prineville, Oregon and Margaret Roberts Hull of Denison, Texas and sister in law, Ruby Anita Frachiseur Roberts of Talent, Ore-
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 2, 2020 gon. John is also survived by a large and loving family of beloved nieces and nephews. Deceased siblings and brother/sister in laws include Idell Roberts Caponi and Joseph Caponi, Wayne Roberts, Charles Roberts, Fred Roberts, Leon Roberts and Allie Dunn Roberts, James Ralls, Wanda Roberts, Lily Jean Roberts Wadkins and Clifford Wadkins, Laura Sue Roberts Shaw and Bill Shaw, Harold Dean Roberts and Juanita Stulken Roberts, Harry Hull, and Mary Ann Roberts Ingram and James Ingram. John’s service will be held at Baker Cemetery near Wickes, Arkansas on Monday, November 30th at 2pm with Brother Leon McCleskey officiating under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Pallbearers include Tanner Buttron, Austin Coon, Tyler Coon, Andrew Eckert, Wayne McCarley and Michael Rice. Honorary pallbearers include Roger Cartwright, Larry Cecil, Ronney Fields, John Willard Hill, Mike James, Mike Oglesby, and Randy Sellers. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Baker Cemetery, 906 Hwy 278 E, Wickes, Arkansas 71973. Arrangements are under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena
Gerald Wayne Tunnell
Gerald (Jerry) Wayne Tunnell , 82, of Mena, Arkansas passed away on November 22nd, 2020 at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab. He was born on March 26th, 1938 in Watson, Oklahoma to the late Benjamin Everett Tunnell and Mabel Estell Burk-Tunnell. He was united in marriage to Anna Sue Terrell on April 11th, 1964. They celebrated 56 years of marriage this year. Jerry was a member of Union Mission Church. He worked at Emerson Electric U.S. Motors for 34 years until his retirement. Prior to working at U.S. Motors, he served seven years in the Navy. He was preceded in death by his sisters Sue Jordan and Gayle Jones and brother Herald Tunnell. He is survived by his wife, Anna Sue of Mena, AR; son, Kenny Tunnell of London, AR; daughter, Jana Ballard and hus-
band Brandy Ballard of Fort Smith, AR; grandchildren, Chelsea Tunnell-Abendroth, Kaitlyn Tunnell-Vantine, Kacie Ballard-Stabler, Kaleb Tunnell, Kylie Ballard; six great-grandchildren, Chase Abendroth, Lander Duvall, Kamry Duvall, Kennyn Vantine, Bentley Tunnell, and step great-grandchild, Kentlee Vantine. He is also survived by sisters, Norma Fields and her husband Glenn, Elsie Cook and her husband Paul, Shirley Capehart and husband Jerry Don; brothers, Larry Tunnell, Al Tunnell and his wife Wanda. All nieces, nephews, and friends were very special to him. He loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. There will be a graveside service to honor him on Wednesday, November 25th at 2:00pm at the Rocky Cemetery in Rocky, AR with Brother Reggie Fryar and Brother Tim Smedley officiating. Funeral arrangements will be under the direction of the Beasley Woods Funeral Home. There will be a general visitation on Tuesday. Honorary pallbearers are John Larucci, Jeremy McBee, Dean Terrell, Brandy Ballard, Kenny Finney, and Robby Scroggins.
Debra Lynn Young
Debra “Debbie” Lynn Young age 59 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, November 27, 2020. Debbie was born on November 24, 1961 in Tucson, Arizona to Wallace Willard Reid and Darlene Ann Basgall. When she passed, loved ones and her “golden” dogs were with her in her home. She was a private person, but her friends say she “touched hundreds of lives”, and she was a “spectacular person who kept it all underneath”. She really loved her family, her dogs, and her online “dog mom” friends. She will be dearly missed. Debbie is survived by her brother, Scott Reid and wife Amanda of Mena; nephews, Jacob Reid, Aaron Reid, and Willard Reid; step-niece, Summer Venable; step-nephew, Daniel Venable; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and her dogs, Taylor, Paisley, and Holly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wallace Reid and Darlene Basgall. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at 1:00
p.m. at Owens Chapel Cemetery in Acorn, Arkansas with Reverend Lamar Austin officiating. Services are under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Considering recent health concerns, the graveside service will replace a traditional church service. Those attending are urged to wear masks and practice social distancing.
Doris Fleming Nolan Sirmon Doris Fleming Nolan Sirmon, age 88,
of Mena, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 22, 2020. She was born on December 29, 1931, to Arneva Perrin Fleming Strother Costello and Allegra O. “Boots” Fleming in Polk County Arkansas. Doris was an active and longtime member of the Mena Free Will Baptist Church where she served as church clerk and taught ladies Sunday school class for over 34 years. She loved her church family dearly. She was the assistant postmaster in Ink, Arkansas for over 25 years and was also bookkeeper at Mena Tobacco and Candy Company for several years. Doris loved meeting people and working in the retail clothing business. Doris is preceded in death by her parents; first husband of nineteen years, Billy Joe Nolan; second husband of forty three years, Shirley Simon; a brother, James “Buck” Strother; sisters, Joyce Rosson, Marjorie Crump, and Della Faye Smyth; a special sister in law, Georgia Strother. She is survived by two sons, John Sirmon and wife Sharon of Hurst, Texas, Gregg Sirmon and wife Phyllis of Mena, Arkansas; two daughters, Helen Sirmon and husband Jay of Mena, Arkansas, Debbie Fryar and husband Harry of Oden, Arkansas; sisters, Geneva York of Ukiah, California, Sue Vaughn and husband James of Waldron, Arkansas; brothers, Bill Strother of Ink, Arkansas, Larry Strother and wife Helen of Hatfield, Arkansas; many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends. Doris had an abundant love for her family and was a proud Mamaw to six grandchildren; grandsons, Russell Fryar and Wife Hether of Atoka, Tennessee,
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 2, 2020
Jarod Sirmon and wife Laura of Hurst, Texas, Jeff Gage and wife Melissa of Arvada, Colorado, Tim Hooper and wife Cristal of Bentonville, Arkansas; granddaughters, Ashley Sharp and husband Scott, Sallie Riggins and husband Will, all of Mena, Arkansas; great grandchildren, Bayley and Dylan Sirmon, Zachary and Nathan Fryar, Noah Sarah and Mylee Sharp, Tyler and Addyson Riggins, and Hudson Hooper. Considering recent health concerns, the graveside service will replace a traditional church service. Those attending are urged to wear masks and practice social distancing. Graveside service will be Friday, November 27, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in Pinecrest Cemetery with beloved pastor Donnie Jewell, and special nephew Bro. Alvin Rosson officiating. Interment under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
Mary Lois Hutchinson
Mary Lois Hutchinson, 85, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away November 18,2020 in Mena, Arkansas. She was born July 31, 1935 in San Marcos, Texas to the late Samuel Gilbert Hutchinson and Florence Butler Hutchinson of San Marcos, Texas. She was united in marriage June 13, 1953 to Harlan Murphy Pinkerton, later divorced. She had one child from that union, Pamela Jean Pinkerton. She enjoyed her music and art. She was a member of Southwest Artists, the Red Hat Society and former foster grandparent. She was a faithful and beloved member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, and she treasured her parish family. Survivors include daughter, Pamela Jean Pinkerton Knox and husband Cecil Knox of Albuquerque, New Mexico; sister, Patricia Ann Hutchinson Gordon and husband Larry Lee Gordon of San Marcos, Texas; four grandchildren; nephew, Kenny Gordon; two great nieces; one great nephew and many cousins. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Faith 7
Reflections from History and Faith
The 13th Amendment By Jeff Olson
For those who want to fundamentally transform our nation, the first order of business is to thoroughly discredit our past. One of the ways this is being done is through the subject of slavery. The history of slavery spans nearly every culture, nationality and religion from ancient times to the present day, and the institution of slavery can be traced back to the earliest historical records, such as the Code of Hammurabi (1760 BC). In Western culture, slavery was common within the British Isles during the Middle Ages. Britain played a prominent role in the Atlantic slave trade, especially after 1600, and slavery was a legal institution in all of the 13 American colonies and Canada. I would like to very briefly address some history of slavery’s eradication as a legal institution in America specifically and Western Civilization in general. While America’s Founders were under no illusions that slavery was in any way consonant with the foundational principles of our republic, they also were wise enough to know that an institution so ingrained in British culture could not be eradicated overnight. While some of America’s Founders were slave owners through inheritance, most considered it an abhorrent reality which needed to be eradicated - sooner than later. Prior to the time of the Founding Fathers, there had been few efforts to dismantle the institution of slavery. Many of the Founders vigorously complained against the fact that Great Britain had forcefully imposed upon the colonies the evil of slavery and many who had owned slaves as British citizens released them in the years following America’s separation from Great Britain. Two of our founders, Benjamin Franklin and Benjamin Rush, founded America’s first anti-slave society in 1774. There were also many other Founders who were anti-slavery, but I’ll briefly expound on perhaps the most notable and controversial Thomas Jefferson.
Some contemporary historians discredit Jefferson’s famous “All men are created equal...”statement in the Declaration of Independence because he was a slave owner. However, they stop there. As Jefferson explained in 1770 while representing a slave in court, arguing for his freedom: Under the law of nature, all men are born free. Everyone comes into the world with a right to his own person, which includes the liberty of moving and using it at his own will. This is what is called personal liberty, and is given him by the Author of Nature. In the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson included an indictment of slavery in its list of grievances but it was removed by delegates who had a large financial stake in slavery’s continuance. Jefferson’s original passage is as follows: “He [King George III] has waged cruel war against human nature itself, violating its most sacred rights of life and liberty in the persons of a distant people
who never offended him, captivating & carrying them into slavery in another hemisphere or to incur miserable death in their transportation thither. This piratical warfare, the opprobrium of infidel powers, is the warfare of the Christian King of Great Britain. Determined to keep open a market where Men should be bought & sold, he has prostituted his negative for suppressing every legislative attempt to prohibit or restrain this execrable commerce. And that this assemblage of horrors might want no fact of distinguished die, he is now exciting those very people to rise in arms among us, and to purchase that liberty of which he has deprived them, by murdering the people on whom he has obtruded them: thus paying off former crimes committed again the Liberties of one people, with crimes which he urges them to commit against the lives of another.” Why then might you ask did not Jef-
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ferson free his slaves upon his death as did George Washington? A revised Virginia law (1806) required emancipators to continue to support and maintain former slaves and required that a freed slave depart the state or else reenter slavery. This simply made it financially impossible for Jefferson
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to free his slaves and it would have also made too much of a hardship for his slaves to remain free. The slave trade was a major source of disagreement at the Constitutional Convention of 1787. South Carolina’s delegates were determined to protect slavery, and they had a powerful im-
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pact on the final document. They originated the threefifths clause (giving the South extra representation in Congress by counting part of its slave population) and threatened disunion if the slave trade were banned as other states demanded. The result was a compromise helping to ensure ratification of the constitution and barring Congress from prohibiting the importation of slaves until January 1, 1808. Effective on this date, the United States outlawed American participation in the African Slave Trade. On February 23, 1807, the British Parliament passed the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act outlawing the slave trade in Great Britain culminating a 20-year crusade lead by William Wilberforce. This Act eventually led to the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, outlawing the institution of slavery in Great Britain. These measures had a positive impact on America’s anti-slavery movement during the 19th-century. Just over 30 years later and 155 years ago this week, after many subsequent cultural and legal battles and a costly civil war, the 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified on December 6, 1865. “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” With these words, the single greatest change envisioned and sought by most of our Founders in 1787 was at last enshrined in our Constitution. While those who despise our country choose to make slavery a cornerstone of our founding, this is not borne out in our Founders’ own statements at the Constitutional Convention, speeches,
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and private correspondence thereafter. They hoped and intended that the dissonance between principle and practice would be resolved quickly. In laying down timeless and transcendent Judeo/Christian principles inconsistent with slavery and drafting a Constitution that did not guarantee its continuance, nor even countenance slavery’s existence, our most celebrated Founders hoped they had hastened its demise. Their hope indeed became a reality, but a point needs to be made here to reinforce the “why” of this reality - even beyond our own country. In Author Rodney Stark’s words: “....It was not philosophers or secular intellectuals who assembled the moral indictment of slavery, but the very people they held in such contempt: men and women having intense Christian faith, who opposed slavery because it was sin...” In other words, Biblical theology abolished slavery because it considered slavery to be sinful, totally antithetical to the truth that all men (and women) are created in the image of God and are therefore endowed by their Creator ....... While it is true that the United States was not the first major western nation to officially outlaw slavery, we were among the first (if not the first) western country to do so within such a brief period after our founding (89 years, 1776-1865). Without question, the ratification of the 13th amendment to our constitution did not end all slavery immediately, but it put US on a path consistent with our Founder’s vision of opportunity for “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” for ALL Americans. This we have seen and continue to see, perhaps most notably through those who have held and those who seek the highest office in the land.
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FAITH 9
December 2, 2020
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An Arkie’s Faith
The Lost Windshield By Richie Lawry
The first orange hued rays of sunrise emerged in the east as I pulled my Chevy S-10 shop truck up to the storage building. My auto glass supplier from Little Rock drops off my order early in the morning each Tuesday and Thursday. I was anxious to get the glass loaded into the truck and head for my shop. I had a busy day scheduled. When I finished loading my truck, I went over my order and found that I was short one windshield. I rechecked the racks in the storage building, but the windshield was not there. “Oh no,” I thought, “this isn’t a good start to my day.” When I realized which windshield was missing, my heart sank. How could so many things go wrong with one job? A week and a half earlier, I had ordered a windshield for a Dodge Charger and set up a time for the customer to drop the car off. But when the time came to do the job, I found that my supplier had sent the wrong glass. To make matters worse, they didn’t have the correct windshield in stock, and it would be a week before I could get the one I needed. The replacement windshield was supposed to be on today’s order. I was not looking forward to calling my
customer and telling them that we had a problem once again. When I pulled into my shop’s driveway, I saw that the Dodge Charger was already there. My customer had arranged to drop her car off early in the morning. I was going to have to call my supplier and find out what had happened. “How many things can go wrong with one job,” I thought. It was the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, and I would not be getting another shipment of glass this week. It would be another week before I could do the job. As I opened the shop and turned on my computer, I already had a couple of voicemails. It might be just a couple of days until Thanksgiving, but I was not in a thankful mood. Before I could even listen to my voicemails, the phone rang. The caller wanted to get his backglass replaced. I told him that it would be a week before I could get the glass because of the Thanksgiving holiday. When I got off the phone, I called my supplier to determine what happened to the windshield that was not delivered. They told me they could not find the windshield in the warehouse the night before, but they had located it now. Because it was their mistake, they agreed to make an extra delivery run that night. At least I could tell my customer it would only be one day before I could do the job,
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10 FAITH FAITH continued from page 9
instead of one week. Since I was getting a delivery that night, I called the customer who needed a backglass and told them I could do the work the next day, explaining the extra delivery because of the warehouse’s mistake. Before the end of the day, I had three more customers who needed work done and were happy to get it done before Thanksgiving. Because of my supplier’s mistake and the extra delivery, I could do four jobs that would have had to wait for a week otherwise. As I made the early morning trip to pick up my glass order, I noticed many branches down from the storm the night before. I breathed a sigh of relief when all my glass was in the storage building. As soon as I reached my shop and opened for business, the phone started ringing. There had been a lot of damage from the storm the night before, and many customers needed glass replacement. By the time the day was over, I had nine jobs scheduled for the week after Thanksgiving. I was thankful for the work and thankful that I could get four jobs done before Thanksgiving because of the lost windshield. As I was thinking about the lost windshield and how upset I had been when my supplier had not delivered it, I realized that in the end, it had been a blessing. When my Momma was alive, she would call things like this “a God thing.” If something unexpected and providential happened to her, she would say,
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“it’s a God thing.” Whenever a “God thing” happened in her life, she was eager to tell me about it. We are often totally unaware of how God is looking out for our best interest. When things are not going well for us, we are very aware, but when things are going smoothly, we don’t stop to think about how God is blessing us. God’s grace often pops up in places that we never expect, such as a lost windshield. I think that the key to understanding grace is to realize that it is unexpected. Christians focus on the fact that God’s grace is undeserved. It is true; grace is undeserved. But not only is it undeserved, but it is also unexpected. That is what Paul is trying to get us to see when he wrote in Ephesians 3:8 (NKJV), “to me, who am less than the least deserving of all the saints, this grace was given.” He seems to be almost unable to believe it when God offered grace to him. It was unexpected. Maybe that is why Paul talks about grace more than any other Bible writer. Gentle Reader, look for the unexpected today. Ask God to open your eyes. Look for grace in unexpected places. I know that you will find it. Paul tells us in 1 Timothy 1:14 (TPT), “I was flooded with such incredible grace, like a river overflowing its banks.” Like Paul, I am flooded with grace. Some days that grace might be a lost windshield. What unexpected grace will you find today?
got medicare??? T H E M EN A/ P O L K C O UNTY CH AM BE R O F COMMER C E W O U L D LI K E TO INVIT E T H E C O M MUN ITY TO P A RT IC IPA T E IN O UR
WHICH INCLUDE: Merriment of Mena Lights & Display Contest Merriment of Mena Wreath Contest & the Mena-Polk County Trail of Lights We are unable to hold a "traditional" parade this year and would like to encourage everyone to participate by joining in on the Merriment of Mena. Businesses who have chosen to decorate a float will display them at their respective businesses or other designated areas on December 5ᵗʰ, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Our Mena Trail of Lights map will include the locations of the floats, as well as businesses and residents who are displaying Christmas lights & decorations. For information on how to register go to our website or contact us at the Chamber office!
5 24 S he r wo od A v e n u e • M e na, A R 71 9 5 3 ( 47 9) 3 94 - 2 91 2 • w ww .m e n ap o lk ch amb e r . co m
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Community 11
December 2, 2020
Faith Chaney, Mena High School Graduate, accepting the Arkansas State Daughters of American Revolution Good Citizens Certificate from Cortez Copher and Coach Tommy Johnson and Faith Chaney, both of Mena High School.
DAR Report Submitted by Cortez Copher
The November meeting of the James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR was held in the First Baptist Church. The program was given by Chris Morgan, District Silviculturist for Mena-Oden Ranger District of the Ouachita National Forest. His PowerPoint presentation was entitled, "Silviculture: The Art of growing and tending forests." Faith Chaney was presented with an ASDAR Certificate for winning the State DAR Good Citizen 2020 Award, and received a check from the Arkansas State Daughters of American Revolution. Coach Tommy Johnson was also honored at the meeting. Last year the James K. Polk Chapter chose Mr. Johnson as the Outstanding American History Teacher of 2020 in
Polk and Montgomery Counties. In the spring, the chapter encouraged him to enter the National DAR 2020 Helen Pouch Memorial Fund Classroom Grant. He is one of three winners in the state of Arkansas to be chosen for the DAR classroom grant and has received a $500 check with his certificate. The James K. Polk Chapter has been awarded a total of twelve state and national DAR awards, among which are the State Chapter Achievement Award - Gold Level, and the National Chapter Achievement Award Level 1 - which is the highest level of award given by the National Association Daughters of American Revolution for "Outstanding Accomplishments." Ladies wishing to inquire about membership in the James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR may contact the Registrar, Dotty Kinnun at 479-437-3111 (thekinnuns@gmail.com) or Regent, Cortez Copher (cortezjcopher@yahoo. com.)
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MHS Students make All Region Jazz Band
Photos courtesy of Mena Public Schools Congratulations to the following MHS students for making the All Region Jazz Band: Shylee Head- 1st band, 1st chair Bari. Sax; Lexi Williams- 2nd band, 1st chair Bass Guitar; Gage Gorden-2nd band, 4th chair Trombone. James Taylor- 1st Alternate Trombone; Congratulations to Shylee Head for qualifying to audition for the All-State Jazz Band.
Polk County Housing Authority 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR
“Smoke Free” and well maintained. The cooking and heating in most apartments is natural gas which is paid by the housing authority. Water, sewer and garbage pick-up are also paid by the housing authority. You will be responsible for your own electric service. Rent amount is based on income. Lawn mowing service is provided to elderly/disabled residents and available for a fee to all other residents. Apartments have washer and dryer hook-up and are equipped with a range and refrigerator as well as central heat and air conditioning. PCHA also has an income based rental assistance program for housing anywhere in Polk County. or visit our website at www.polkarhousing.com
THE POLK COUNTY
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December 2, 2020
TOYS FOR TOTS
MAKE A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS A HAPPY ONE
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MENA ELKS LODGE 2020
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Toys for Tots is on a mission to collect New, Unwrapped toys to distribute to local children in need this Christmas, but we can only do that with your help! Please bring a donation to one of the following drop boxes and make this mission a success. Thank you!
DRO
O LO AT ONS
♥ D AMOND ANK KES ♥ N ON ANK MENA ATF ELD ♥ F RST N TED MET OD ST ♥ FREEDOM ARMA Y ♥ F RST F NAN AL ANK ♥ MENA RANGER STAT ON ♥ LSE M LT MED A ♥ AR EST ANK ♥ ST AGNES AT OL R KES ♥ DOLLAR GENERAL O E & ♥ T E OFFEE A LT O N AR LO AT ONS ♥ M ER TO M ER A TO ARTS ♥ SKYL NE AFE
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December 2, 2020
Around Town
The Board of Directors of Polk County Development Center tin1209@yahoo.com or call 479-243-9277. will meet at the Old Mena Manor Building Dec. 4 at noon. The Mena Lioness Club is asking the community to make doA Benefit Account for Tyler and Charity Head and family, of Gill- nations to the Backpack Program, which sends food home with children ham, who lost their home and contents to a house fire Nov. 7 has been set up at Union during the school year. It cost $126 to sponsor one child for the year, or $14 a month. To Bank of Mena. Donations can be made at branches located in Wickes, Hatfield and Mena help assist the program and help a food insecure child through this program, drop off and are very much appreciated! donations at UnionBank, to the BackPack program or mail donations to Mena Lioness Lions, PO Box 688, Mena AR 71953. St. Agnes Church will host a food distribution on Thursday, December 3rd. from 10:30 - Noon at 203 8th St. in Mena. Distribution will be at the church The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce is announcoffice. ing changes to the Mena Christmas Parade of Lights. Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases, concern for the community, and ADH restrictions, we will Ouachita Little Theater not be hosting the traditional “parade” this year. To be displayed on the “Mena Trail December 9 – Come to our monthly movie party at 6:30 PM which will be showing of Lights” map, you can contact us by phone at 479-394-2912, by email at secretary@ the Christmas classic, “Home Alone!” Itʼs just not the holidays without Kevin McAllister. menapolkchamber.com, register online as a float or Merriment of Mena entry, or stop Bring the kids; admission is free! Concessions are two for $3, including popcorn, soft by our offices at 524 Sherwood Avenue in Mena. drinks, and candy bars. December 11-13 – Three performances of “A Christmas Carol” will be presented in a The City of Mena has canceled the annual Christmas Festival, however lights Readers Theatre style live onstage at OLT. Judy Kropp is directing a creatively modern will still be displayed in Janssen Park, and will be BIGGER and BETTER this year. version of the Charles Dickens tale of Scrooge, Fezziwig, Tiny Tim, ghosts and redemption. Written by Flip Kobler and Cindy Marcus, and true to the original story, this heartA fun, family friendly production of How the Grinch Stole warming play is not to be missed. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door Christmas with a twist will be held Friday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. Iron Mountain Campor on any Friday leading up to the performances at the OLT office from 10:00 to 2:00. ground, hosted by the Crossing. Seating is limited and will allow for social distancing. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 PM, and Sunday is at 2:30 PM. Reserve your tickets now. The doors will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the show. December 18 – A Christmas Concert by Harmony, a Christian family musical group will There will be no admittance before this time. This production is a masked event. For mor be performed live. Many people enjoyed them last year, and they are set for another information contact The Crossing at 479-394-7600. great show on Friday, December 18, at 7:30 PM at the theater. Admission is by your choice of donation at the door. Join the Arkansas National Guard Child and Youth Program Coordinators and Soldier and Family Readiness Specialist for The Elks Lodge is seeking donations for their annual Christmas food information on improving Child and Youth Programming in your area! If you have an inbaskets. For more information contact the lodge at 479-394-3740. terest in working with military youth, come join us! There will be two different sessions: 12:00 - 4:00 and 5:00 - 9:00. Friday, December 11, 2020 at N Mena St, Mena, AR 71953. Bikes for Transportation project, coordinated by Mena Middle School Hosted by Arkansas Soldier and Family Readiness Program EAST Lab, aims to offer free, cleaned and repaired bikes that have been donated by the community for people who do not have transportation. If you or someone you know needs a bike, contact 479-637-6399. Itʼs easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@ CASA is asking community members to sponsor a foster mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in childʼs Christmas wish list. Approximately 75 children in the area will spend the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward the holidays in foster care. To sponsor a child, please call Cynthia Martin at cmar- to continuing to serve the community!
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14 Law & Order
December 2, 2020
The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG November 23, 2020 Report of two stolen vehicles led to the arrest of Barbara G. Braun, 20, of Hatfield on Charges of Possession on Meth or Cocaine with Purpose to Deliver, Fleeing in a Vehicle, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule I or II, Possession of Schedule VI, and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, and to the arrest of Dustin T. Swinney, 31, of Jacksonville, Arkansas on Charges of Possession of Meth or Cocaine with Purpose to Deliver, Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons, Fleeing in a Vehicle, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule I or II, Possession of Schedule VI, and a Parole Hold. Report of locating a missing truck on Polk 149 near Potter. Deputy responded. Report of a one vehicle accident on Hwy 71N near Acorn led to the arrest of Joan M. Austgen, 48, of Gary, Indiana on a Charge of Driving While Intoxicated. November 24, 2020 Report of a vehicle accident on Polk 407 near Cove. Deputy responded. November 25, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 92 near Shady Grove of trespassing. Deputy responded. Arrested was Jacob S. Rowe, 23, of Wickes on a Warrant for Criminal Mischief 1 st Degree.
November 26, 2020 Report of child abuse. Deputy responded. November 27, 2020 Report from complainant on Hwy 8W near Shady Grove of damage done to a mailbox. Deputy responded. November 28, 2020 Report from complainant on Amber Lane near Dallas Valley of a missing family member. Deputies responded. Family member was later located. November 29, 2020 Report of a one vehicle accident on Polk 16 near Vandervoort . Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 21 near Cove of trespassing. Deputy responded. Report of an unattended death. Deputy responded. Report from complainant near Wickes of identity fraud. Report from complainant of a Violation of an Order of Protection. Deputies responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report of a runaway juvenile. Deputies responded. Juvenile was located and returned to the custody of a parent/guardian. Report from complainant on Hwy 375E near Dallas Valley of domestic battery. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Troy C. Denton, 29, of Mena on a Warrant for Domestic Battery 3 rd Degree, a Warrant for Criminal Mischief 2 nd Degree, and
a Violation of a Protection Order. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked three vehicle accidents this week.
MENA POLICE REPORTS
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Evaluation requested for alleged murderer of Sydney Sutherland
LITTLE ROCK - The defense for November 22, 2020 slain Arkansas jogger Sydney SutherA report of assault and endangerland, 25 has requested a mental health ing the welfare of a minor was taken evaluation for alleged murderer Quake at the Northside Shopping Center. Lewellyn, 28. The defense requested an evaluation November 23, 2020 to determine Lewellyn’s “fitness to proA report of a vehicle theft was taken ceed” and his criminal responsibility. on Magnolia Avenue. This request also includes testing for A report of a vehicle theft was taken “mental retardation.” on Craig Street. Sutherland was reported missing Jacob Baker, 36, was charged with back on August 19, after she went out Internet Stalking of a Child, Comput- jogging but did not return. er Child Pornography, and Sexual InInvestigators found her phone the decency with a Child. The arrest was next day about 1.3 miles from her made on a traffic stop on South Mena home. According to a probable cause Street following an investigation. affidavit obtained by Law&Crime, they questioned Lewellyn and he said he saw November 24, 2020 her running on County Road 41 before A report of theft of property (shop- she went missing. He was the last perlifting) was taken at Dollar General. son to see her, authorities said. The defendant went to an Arkansas State Police station for an interview, November 25, 2020 and allowed investigators to search his No reports taken. pickup truck, according to officials. Authorities claimed to find blood on November 26, 2020 A theft report was taken from a the tailgate, and inside the cracks of the tailgate. In this official story, they person at Janssen Park. A report of a welfare check was tak- searched Lewellyn’s phone, and found a Life 360 application, which tracked en on Highway 8 East. his location. They claim this program put him just yards away from where November 27, 2020 Sutherland’s body was found. No reports taken. Lewellyn allegedly admitted that he ran her over with his truck, put her in November 28, 2020 the vehicle, and moved her to the locaA report of a disturbance was taken tion noted on the Life 360 application. on Oak Grove Avenue. It was there that he raped her, and burA report of theft was taken on Dew- ied her, according to this confession. ey Avenue. The defendant is charged with a A report of criminal mischief was count each of capital murder, kidnaptaken on Sherwood Avenue. ping, rape, and abuse of a corpse.
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OUTDOORS 15
December 2, 2020
Ouachita Bushcraft & Survival
CAMPFIRE CUISINE By Steven E. Stillwell
How good is your memory? Can you remember your earliest outdoor excursions? What about the cuisine, or the utensils that you used to cook with? To the best of my recollection, I was five years old when my parents took me on my first fishing trip, and BOY was I frightened. Before we embarked on that adventure, my mother told me a couple of stories I’ll never forget! Looking back, I’m confident she embellished some of the details just to scare me, but it was for my own good. At times, I could be a reckless little guy, so she had to outsmart me to ensure my safety. Anyway, I never fell into a cotton mouth nest, or wandered too close to the cliff-banks where the gigantic, man-eating catfish lurked underneath. I managed to survive, but late at night, that water moccasin story still haunts me! Even though my folks loved the outdoors, they never purchased any sub-
stantial camping gear. In fact, we never pitched a tent, slept in a travel trailer, or used sleeping bags. Their idea of an overnight adventure was rolling up in a blanket on a rocky creek-bank, or taking a nap in our 1966, Ford Mustang. To this day, I’m grateful that I was the only one small enough to fit in that cramped, little backseat. There wasn’t a soul in sight, on that starry summer night. One of my fondest memories takes me back to 1969 when we visited a little creek-fed lake. It was pitchblack, probably around midnight, when we arrived at our destination. I never asked my dad how he managed to find some of these isolated places, but somehow he had the knack for doing so. Like usual, we had another secret honey-hole all to ourselves. My pop grabbed a flashlight, gathered some kindling and branches, and within minutes, we had a roaring fire about ten feet from the water. The flames illuminated our immediate surroundings and the imaginary phantoms I was seeing began to dematerialize, eventually morphing into cedar trees, rocks, and various identifiable landmarks. WE WERE SAFE. NO BOOGIEMAN WOULD DARE STEP INTO THE LIGHT AND REVEAL
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HIMSELF! At daybreak, when I woke up, my mother told me that I’d missed all of the action. “What happened,” I asked? “Go look,” she replied. I slowly stumbled across the rocks, tugged on the stringer that was wired to a piece of driftwood, and felt a considerable amount of resistance. A couple of the larger catfish wiggled to the surface, swished their tails, and went back under the water. It’s funny that I can recall all of these precise details, but don’t ask me what we had for breakfast that morning, because I couldn’t tell you. I know we always carried an ice-chest full of food, but nothing extravagant. Occasionally we’d roast hotdogs or marshmallows, but that’s as fancy as it got. If I had to narrow it down to one particular meal, I’d have to confess; bologna sandwiches and potato chips. As the saying goes, MY, HOW TIME FLIES. Fast-forwarding to the next century, this applies to those of us
who can remember the good old days, I marvel at all of the technological breakthroughs that have revolutionized the world. When I browse through my favorite sporting catalogs and do a little mail order shopping, the new innovations seem endless. At times, it’s hard to keep up with everything, but there’s something I’ve learned and I’ll pass this information on. There are some inventions that are so simplistic they transcend technology, and they’re TIMELESS! In other words, there’s little room for improvement. Enamel coated cookware, cast iron skillets, and Dutch ovens were popular in the 1800’s, and they’re still in high demand today. I hate to make predictions, but I’d be willing to wager that titanium utensils will fall into this category, because they’re light weight, durable, and most mountain climbers insist on using them. If you plan on spending any extended
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16 OUTDOORS By Lacy Yoakem
THE POLK COUNTY
December 2, 2020
Wanderlust & Arkansas Dust
Well, the Great Smoky Mountain trip didn’t go as planned... Day one started off good... we were tickled, full of wonder, ready to conquer some miles!! First on the to do list, drive the 5 mile Roaring Fork motor nature trail and see all kinds of waterfalls along the way. Big, small, rushing, trickling. We were able to frolic all throughout the woods with very little people... and then... disaster struck. As soon as we got back to the car after our last frolic... I mean I had just hit the unlock button... I hear a shuffle in the leaves, followed by a thud and look back to see my friends 2 little tiny feet sticking out from behind the car. Face down. In the leaves. Busted lip, busted nose, injured arm. Bless it. Lesson learned: always tuck your shoe laces. Thankfully my friend is a tough cookie and still continued to ride the Good Time train, but she was hurt
nonetheless. On day two, the day we were gonna attempt the 10 mile hike up to the LeConte Lodge... Mount LeConte had 60 mph winds and the temperatures were below freezing. We were not gonna risk another injury, and I am not built for icy slopes. Change of plans. We made a quick decision to hike the 2 mile paved trail to the 80ft waterfall by the name of Laurel Falls. The most popular waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park...Hand rails. Park rangers. People everywhere. 2 miles, in and out. Very much accommodating to the public. Not exactly what my wanderlust desired but it was beautiful nonetheless. Dropped my
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meant to be. The Mingus Mill is a water powered turbine used to grind corn and wheat for over 200 families back in 1886. This grist mill was the biggest in the Great Smoky Mountains until 1930, when the Mingus family sold the property to the soon to be Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It was here that I captured some of the best photos I’ve
ever taken, despite the cracked screen. This place was my favorite sight to see. There was no crowd. After our decompression at the mill, we headed back to our cabin where we prepared a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Just so we could experience Thanksgiving in the Great Smoky Mountains and that was wonderful. Also one of the highlights of our trip. Day three... We went back to the Mingus Mill. I had an idea! A photo idea! And then a video idea! I had a plan this time and Lord only knows when I would be back this way, so I gotta execute the executing while the execute can be executed. I. Did. Just. That. I got my photos, I nailed the video, I was a happy girl. Vacations over. Time to go. Lacey is done now. Nothing to see here. Day four... we made our way to Cades Cove. I’d already been here on my first trip but my friends had never been. Cades Cove is an 11 mile one lane road that takes you through a valley tucked
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phone. Cracked the screen. #adventure After the waterfall excitement, we still had a few hours of day light left so we just picked a direction and went for it. That direction landed us at the Mingus Mill in North Carolina. Not at all where we thought we were headed but exactly where we were
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45 acres of RIVER FRONTAGE with A ROCK country home and a mobile home. Stocked pond, hay fields, barns, cross fenced, wooded and half a mile of Ouachita River frontage with sandbars and easy access to the water. Located on the high side of the Ouachita River and could be easily subdivided. MLS20027928 $350,000
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Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! I am Lady. I am a stunning black lab/Manchester terrier mix. At almost 2, I am very energetic and love to play. Fetch is my favorite game! I am a devoted and protective of my people. If you are looking for a dog who will let you know when someone is around, I am it. I can be shy around new people. As such, HSO staff recommend someone who is patient and understanding. And might be willing to make multiple trips to allow me to become more comfortable and show my true spirit. I need a loving home that will work with me to bring out my specialness. I LOVE water and am ultra smart. I can even figure out high mental changeling toys. As I am high energy and weigh about 42 pounds. I can be very enthusiastic when playing and sometimes I do not know my own strength. Because of this, HSO staff would not recommend a home with small children. I am house and leash trained. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
18 Classifieds
December 2, 2020
Is Amazon planning a Northwest Arkansas facility? By Paul Gatling/ Talk Business and Politics Is Amazon planning a warehouse and fulfillment center in Northwest Arkansas? For the past several weeks, a few Northwest Arkansas Business Journal sources have suggested that idea, pointing to an area in Springdale east of Interstate 49 and south of the J.B. Hunt Transport Services corporate headquarters. Wouldn’t you know it? A seven-figure land sale closed in that area earlier this month. According to records at the Benton County Courthouse, 91.5 acres south of West Apple Blossom Avenue and east of Graham Road sold for $5.2 million. That purchase equals $1.30 per square foot. Macrich LLC, managed by Marjorie Brooks, was the seller. The new owner is Crossland Realty Group, a privately owned real estate investment firm based in Kansas and a division of Crossland Construction. The development company has more than 8 million square feet of commercial real estate under management in more than 100 properties. A couple of those buildings are at the corner of 28th and J streets in Bentonville. Walmart leases all of an approximately 88,000-squarefoot flex building that was built in 2018. The retailer also leases roughly 30,000 square feet of a 130,000-square-foot building that was built in 2017. Bill McClard, a senior vice president at Lindsey & Associates and executive broker specializing in commercial properties, represented Macrich in
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If the company is Amazon, Crossland isn’t confirming. Mattie Crossland, the director of real estate for Crossland Realty Group, said there are no imminent development plans.
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“We think highly of the city of Springdale and the strong regional economic growth forecast.” From a logistics perspective, the property is in an ideal location — several years from now. The land is situated east of the Arkansas Highway 612/Interstate 49 interchange. Right now, Highway 612 is only built to the west. The plan is to ultimately build out the eastern portion of the highway — through or near the Crossland property — to create a divided highway corridor known as the Springdale Northern Bypass. It will run from an interchange with U.S. Highway 412 west of Tontitown to U.S. Highway 412 east of Sonora and just west of Beaver Lake. Lines on a map right now, but one day an essential artery in Northwest Arkansas.
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the Springdale land deal. Springdale City Council rezoned the property to warehouse Oct. 13. At the meeting, McClard told the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette a “Fortune 500” company was considering the property for its warehouse center.
“We are marketing the site for flex industrial users, build-to-suit opportunities, and in the future may consider a spec building,” she said. “Our vision is to eventually build out a multitenant industrial park that services the area being unlocked by the various municipal projects underway.
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Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree trimming needs, Call Wendell’s Tree Service (479)394-0227 or (479)2164328 TFN Land Clearing, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479)216-2976 for Free estimate. T12302020 We’ve MOVED- EZ Auto and rental to the corner of Racetrack road and Ten Race LaneAuto financing available. T01122021
Restaurant Manager, Position #22092459, Salary $36,155, Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Mena, AR, closing date 11/29/2020. Provides daily supervision to skilled and unskilled food service workers, oversees food quality, and ensures customer service standards are met. Inspects restaurant for cleanliness, safety, and maintenance needs, coordinates repairs, develops/monitors budget, food costs, menu planning and food preparation, coordinates special activities or accommodations for groups and handles customer complaints. Full benefit package provided. Requires education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality or a related field; plus one year of experience in restaurant or catering management or a related field, including six months of cooking experience and one year in a supervisory capacity. Additional experience in lieu of degree considered. Criminal background check required. EOE/ADA/AA employer. Minorities and women encouraged to apply. Applications online ONLY www.arstatejobs.com. Cossatot Senior center is in need of a part time driver to deliver meals to the seniors of our community. This position for 55 or older. The duties will also include helping with meal prep, clean up, and dishes. Please contact Trena Hodge at 870-385-2373 or 479-234-3503
Notice is hereby given that the City of Mena, Arkansas is making application to USDA Rural Development for funds to make improvements to the Mena Water Utilities system by constructing improvements to the Irons Fork Water Treatment Plant. A public hearing will be held at the Mena Fire Station No. 2, 1100 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at 5:00 pm for the purpose of discussing the project. Anyone needing more information about the project or wanting to make comments should contact the Mena Water Utilities at 701 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas or 479-397-2761.
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WANDERLUST continued from 16
OUTDOORS 19
December 2, 2020
between the mountains that is plentiful with wildlife and historical buildings. The Rich Mountain trailhead is located in Cades Cove but like everything else we had planned for this trip, that was a no go. The trail was closed. But! I still got to step a little tippy toe on the trail at the trailhead and that was good enough for me. We winded up, down and round all the beauty that Cades Cove had to offer. We got out and snapped pictures, stood in the fields and choked on the smoke that rolled by.... Yes. Smoke. How ironic right? Who’d be surprised that there was smoke in the Great Smoky Mountains?! We were. They were doing a controlled burn and our eye balls were on fire. All this euphoric beauty around us and we can’t see a dagum thing. By now I’m wondering if we shoulda just kept our honky tonks at the cabin and just hibernated like the cranky bear I was turning into. Speaking of bears, we finally saw one on our way out of Cades Cove after the smoke cleared. A big bear. His milkshake was extra thick. So that was cool. And scene. Thats a wrap. Our Smoky Mountain trip was unique to say the least. Nothing but our Thanksgiving dinner went as planned. After driving hundreds of miles at 35 mph with 15 mph switchbacks thru the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, I was more than happy to see our little Ouachita mountains with our 45 mph curves. Every single time I’ve taken myself outta Arkansas’ terrain and put my hiking boots on a different level of terrain, I come back with a deeper appreciation for our Natural State. To see the videos from my adventure and to peep some of the best photos I’ve ever taken, go ahead and give me a Like or a Follow on Facebook or Instagram at Wanderlust and Arkansas Dust.
BUSHCRAFT continued from 15
time in the wilderness, learning how to cook is essential. It will also give you a psychological edge, and add to the enjoyment of your experience. Returning to camp after a strenuous day of hiking, hunting, or fishing and anticipating a well prepared meal breaks the monotony and gives you something to look forward to. Case in point; I have a good friend, he’s an exceptional outdoorsman and he supplements his income by trapping. I enjoy hunting with this individual, because he’s one of the best cooks I know. On our first outing, he brought a generous amount of his homemade jerky and venison sausage for me to sample. I’ll have to admit, I was impressed, because his recipes exceeded my expectations! To sum it up, this guy practically lives in the woods during the various seasons, and he fills his tags like there’s no tomorrow! I attribute his success to eating and camping comfortably. THIS IS ONE OF THE RESOURCEFUL COOKING METHODS THAT WORKS FOR ME. If you’ve ever cooked over a campfire, you know that regulating the temperature can be a problem. The keyhole fire-ring is the solution to this dilemma, and this is how it works. You can regulate the heat, by strategically raking
your coals away from the flames and into a smaller interconnecting pit. Using a cast iron skillet, I’ve made some of the most palatable Barbequed chicken known to mankind, and it comes out perfect every time! If you enjoy learning and sharing survival skills, we invite you to join our new Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. We welcome your comments and suggestions!
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December 2, 2020
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