December 2, 2015
FREE WEEKLY
THE POLK COUNTY
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1168 Hwy 71 S • Mena, AR 71953 • 479-243-9600
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Limited Damage Following Thanksgiving Weekend Flooding
BY MELANIE BUCK As much or more than ten inches was reported throughout the County over the Thanksgiving weekend. Wet weather had already slowed projects such as county road repairs and now those projects will be pushed back even further. The torrential rains and floods experienced by the County have become an all too common occurrence in recent years. The slow moving storm system began slamming the county with rainfall on CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
Unemployment Rate Continues Steady Decline
BY MELANIE BUCK For the fifth month in a row, Arkansas’ unemployment rate has continued to decline. According to labor force data, the October rate was 5.1 percent, down one-tenth of a percentage point from September of this year and down seven-tenths of a point from one year ago. Arkansas’ civilian labor force decreased by 100, a result of 1,300 fewer unemployed and 1,200 more employed. The United States’ jobless rate also decreased one-tenth of a percent, bringing it down to 5 percent in October. In addition to the unemployment rate declining steady for CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
PULSE MULTI-MEDIA LAUNCHES
Parade, Fireworks, Nativities Kick-Off Christmas Season in Mena Saturday!
Mena’s Christmas Lighting Display Celebrates 20 Years BY LEANN DILBECK The City of Mena and its visitors have been enjoying the elaborate Christmas Lights of Janssen Park for 19 years now but few may know the history of how the extensive display found its way here. On any given night following this Saturday’s 20th official lighting of the park, cars will be seen steadily streaming up and around the circle to view the spectacular display. It was through the work of Mena native and former Mena City Clerk/Treasurer Regina Walker CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
BY MELANIE BUCK • [PHOTO BY ILANA BURK] [PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN VACCA] Recip The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce, Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission, City of Mena and area churches will join together kicking-off the Christmas season this Saturday. It all begins as Mena comes alive with its largest parade followed by spectacular fireworks and the official lighting of Janssen Park, marking its 20th year. Nativities will continue the evening at area churches. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
www.washburns.com Mon-Fri 8:30 to 6:00 • Sat 9:00 - 3:00 (479) 394-4332 • (888) 394-4332
Page 2
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
editor
A NOTE FROM THE
First and foremost, thank you so much for letting me know that my simple little “notes” have been missed and thank you for your patience. It was yet another lesson for me about the many seasons of life. This past year has been full of so much change for us, business-wise, and full of so many blessings. It has been exhausting and rewarding at the same time. It has been a time of tremendous growth in many aspects and for that I will always be grateful. Personally, my focus over the last year has never strayed from the One who has brought us so far but my energies were redirected to continuing to lay a solid foundation in which to build all that we have been entrusted with. At times I would feel guilty or convicted, as if I was letting Him down, but in His soft quiet still voice, He would always reassure me that when it was time to resume, He would move me. To clarify for those that feared the ab-
t s r i F by’s
Ba
sence of my weekly column meant that we had succumbed to pressure to be politically correct by the world’s standards, please know we are guilty… and we hope that you will be, too. The Newsboys nailed it with their new song:
When did it become breaking a rule To say Your name out loud in school When Your name is the only one that sets us free When did it become incorrect To speak the truth about life and death When Your life gave us all eternity Even if it gets me convicted I’ll be on my knees with my hands lifted If serving You is against the law of man If living out my faith in You was banned Then I’ll stand right before the jury If saying ‘I believe’ is out of line If I’m judged ‘cause I’m gonna give my life To show the world the love that fills me Then I want to be guilty
i r h C
s a stm
Nata lie Apri
J. Bo ngers 2
l 18,
014
I’ll rise up and honor You I’ll testify to the good You do ‘Cause your grace and Your mercy have overtaken me Guilty by association Guilty of being a voice proclaiming Your ways Your truth Your life I’ll pay the price to be Your light I want to be guilty
Believe me when I say… nothing can silence me from proclaiming His truths. Nothing … but death itself… and even then, my prayer is that my life will have been lived in a way that reflects His love and mercy for us. The Enemy is the author of confusion and his latest strategy and attack includes rewriting the definition of “tolerance” so that it is exclusive of God. He is lacing it with fear with hopes of silencing those that speak His truths. When the world tells us to sit down and be quiet, Jesus reminds us to share our stories and let others know of His eternal grace and goodness. Matthew 10:26-27 [NIV] says, “So do
not be afraid of them. For there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what
is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the rooftops.” Once you’ve experienced God’s
grace and mercy, how could you not want to shout it from the rooftops! Monday marked 24 years from the first time David and I said ‘I do.’ Those 24 years include 3 years of complete brokenness and it is those 3 years that we celebrate because it was during that time that God shown the brightest. Through a restoration that only He could orchestrate, our family is united and is a new creation in Him where He is at the center of it all – front and center on a daily basis. He has allowed us the opportunity to build careers in our hometown with our families and treasured friends. He has written our children’s names in the Lamb’s Book of Life and blessed us all with good health so page 2 may not be a rooftop but it is our way of “making known” and being guilty of proclaiming all He has done and continues to do for us in hopes that it will inspire others. Stand strong brothers and sisters – stand guilty with me! ‘Til every knee bows -
Baby’s Name ____________________________________ First, Middle Initial, Last Date of Birth ______/______/______ Your Name ______________________________________ Phone: _________________________________________ Contact Pulse Multi-Media to reserve your space before Friday December 11th at 5 p.m. All spaces must be pre-paid. Photos e-mailed must be in .jpg format and sent as attachments. Photos mailed or brought by the office will not be returned.
479-243-9600 • news@mypulsenews.com 1168 Hwy 71 South, Mena
The Polk County Pulse will be publishing Baby’s First Christmas in the Wednesday, December 16th Christmas Special 2-week issue. If this is your baby’s... or grandbaby’s first Christmas, reserve your spot in this section and make a lifetime memory.
$15 - Print & Online @ MyPulseNews.com
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December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
BY MELANIE BUCK Ms. Sheila Johnson, Art Teacher at Mena for 25 years, now teaches art at Cossatot River School District. Johnson has an art show scheduled for next Spring at Mena Art Gallery, something all artists long for. However, Johnson said she wouldn’t be the artist she is without her students who she said taught her as much as she taught them. I’m having a show in April at the Mena Art Gallery and since I’ve learned more from the kids than what they learned from me, I wanted to incorporate my students to spotlight them, who’ve taught me so much. Johnson is calling on all of her students, former and current, to create something special as a ‘prequel’ to her show. Johnson would like for all of her students to create a puzzle piece, approximately 2 ft. x 2 ft. “You don’t have to spend a lot of money. You can do a collage, mosaic, or even an older project you may still have, make a copy and paste it on,” Johnson explained. As for the actual puzzle piece, those can be ordered through Johnson for $5 each. She would like to have all puzzle pieces ready to hang by March 1st, a full month prior to her gallery show. This will give her plenty of time to hang and display them around town and will also give time for them to be seen by the community and its visitors. “Don’t make this a job, make it fun. I’ve used watercolor on one, sharpie, and acrylic paint. I wasn’t a natural artist. I had to learn myself and I wanted to extend that it was my students who helped me the most,” said Johnson. If you are one of her former or current students and would like to take part or have questions, please contact Johnson at 870-385-2285 or 479-263-9529.
Genesis One Network to Host BBQ Fundraiser and Free Concert
NEWS
Art Teacher Hopes to Display Puzzle Pieces to Honor Students
SUBMITTED Genesis One Network, founded by John Easley in 2001, has established itself as one of the leading prison ministry programs in the state of Oklahoma. Genesis One meets offenders while still incarcerated and gives them tools to make positive changes in their behavior and outlook on life. Meeting regularly, Genesis One members use Biblical teachings and encouragement from volunteers to make a fresh start upon release. After six months of documented attendance, an offender is considered in good standing and receives the full assistance of the Genesis One Network. This assistance includes letters to parole boards, assistance in finding transitional housing, finding a church home, and mentorship. Support this vibrant ministry Sunday December 6th, starting at 5:00 pm at First Christian Church, 1010 Port Arthur Ave., in Mena. Genesis One graduate, Rodney Frick, will be on hand serving up his Hot Rod Classic BBQ for $10 a plate. The Redeemed praise band, made up of Genesis One graduates, will kick off the evening. Playing popular contemporary worship music these true success stories will also share their testimonies of where they were in the past and how God has changed their lives for the better. This event is sure to inspire. Genesis One Executive Director and former prison chaplain, Jimmie Don Gibson, will also speak. Oklahoma is fourth in the nation for the incarceration of men and first in the world for the incarceration of women. Without intervention more than 68% of all offenders go back to prison within three years. G1 has a 10.1% recidivism rate, breaking the cycle of the repeat offender by implementing discipleship and personal accountability programs. A recent survey was taken of Genesis One members asking them how the program made a difference in their lives. One offender said, “It’s great to be held accountable for my actions, it keeps me close to God.” Another offender added, “I’ve drawn closer to God than I’ve ever been. I have brothers I can go to if I need to, and I have peace knowing I have help if I need it when I get out.” A third offender added, “Genesis One opened my eyes to a new way of looking at things. It has given me discipline and self control and helped me realize that God does have a purpose and direction for my life.” Everyone has the opportunity to make a real difference by donating or getting involved as a volunteer. Come out Sunday December 6th to learn more about Genesis One and its vital ministry to the incarcerated. To make a direct contribution click the Donate button on our website at www.genesisonenetwork.com. If you have questions or comments email Josh Gibson at joshua.aaron.gibson@gmail.com.
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Page 4
NEWS
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
Mena Schools Implement New Safety App for All Faculty and Staff
Remembering Hearts Forever Annual Candle Lighting Ceremony Set
BY MELANIE BUCK Faculty and staff at Mena Public Schools tested their RAVE Mobile Safety App on Wednesday, November 25th and all involved agencies including Mena City Police, Polk County Sheriff, 911 Dispatch, Rave Mobile Safety, Office of Emergency Services, and Mena Public School officials “were very pleased with how the 911 smart app worked,” according to Paulette Sherrer, federal coordinator for the Mena District. Rave Guardian is a Campus Safety Mobile App backed by a hosted, Software-as-a-Service platform. Profile data for faculty and staff is stored privately and securely within Rave’s databases. With Rave Guardian, profiles are shared only when a member calls campus safety, or allows a previously set Safety Timer to expire. Caller identity is immediately known so that Campus Safety can take action, even if the caller cannot speak. Any member can download the Rave Guardian mobile app and create a profile, providing Rave Guardian with their vital information. The member’s profile data and location displays when Campus Safety is called or a Safety Timer expires. Whenever faculty or staff connects with Campus Safety from their mobile phone, the Rave Guardian Campus Safety App automatically delivers a complete caller profile, including current location, medical conditions, addresses, campus ID photo, and other critical data. If someone is unable to speak from fear of being heard, the dispatcher can begin text messaging with the caller. “All employees have access to it. The State Schools Initiative Act that was rolled out this fall and requires each school in the state to have certain elements in place for safety. The state laid out the criteria and is trying to align all campuses and keep local safety officials aware and be on the same page. We met with our local officials several times and this was our first trial for the infrastructure. It all went very well,” said Sherrer. When a member is in need of assistance, they simply have to push a button on their app and everybody on the list gets a text and an email giving the location of the person that has pushed the button. Each campus will receive their own signals, and the central office and administration will get the message as well, insuring that whoever needs help, will get it. “We wanted to run through the system and make sure it worked before we ever need. Hopefully we will never need to use it but in the chance that we do, we know that it works and works well. We performed a trial run at all four campuses and it worked great.” Sherrer added, “Continual improvements and trial tests will be made to ensure the safest environment for our students, staff, and community. Mena Public Schools wishes to thank all agencies and people involved in this RAVE Panic 911 smart app test.”
BY MELANIE BUCK Each year, the local Remembering Hearts Forever group holds a Candle Lighting Ceremony in honor of their lost children, grandchildren, and siblings. Led by Diane Mathis, the group meets at the Union Bank Community Room, each bringing a picture of their lost loved one. “We will participate in the worldwide candle lighting by lighting a candle and saying our child’s name,” said Mathis. “Bring your family and friends to share in this remembrance with us,” she added. There will be a slide show presented of loved ones. Mathis asks that those who have not yet presented a picture for the slide show, to please do so by December 6th. “Even if you can’t make the candle lighting, please send a picture so all others may see your child. We never want them to be forgotten,” Mathis explained. After the lighting, the group will have fellowship and refreshments. Everyone is invited to bring their favorite finger food to share. The Candle Lighting will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Union Bank Community Room, located at the back of the bank’s main branch in Mena. For more information, contact Diane Mathis at 479-243-0191, Charie Mabry at 479-216-6057, or Rosanna Youngblood at 479-394-6392.
When Time Finally Runs Out Book by Peter Bellone
Available on GoodReads.com & Amazon.com
following the Christmas Parade
Caroling, Delicious Food, and Christmas Fellowship! Come and Bring Your Friends! MENA FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
501 Ninth Street • 394-3051 Ann Ferris, Pastor
This season, give the gift of knowledge, pick up a copy of my book, When Time Finally Runs Out. Time is short; short enough that you will be amazed to learn “when time finally runs out.”
www.PeterBellone.net
December 2, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 5
n o h t o i d a R
Friday, December 4th 7 am - 12 pm
We’ll be broadcasting LIVE from the Pulse Multi-Media studios and from our community partners from 9 am - 12 pm
For many local students, the ONLY meals they are prepared are the school breakfasts and lunches, making evenings, weekends, and school breaks a stressful time as these students battle hunger. THE BACKPACK PROGRAM puts kid-friendly, easy to prepare, nutritional foods directly into the hands of local students.
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NEWS
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab Receives Several Awards
BY MELANIE BUCK A culture change is springing up at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab Center. For the second year in a row, the center has received top honors with the Culture Change Award under the Southern Administrative Services umbrella. The Culture Change Award was given to Rich Mountain Nursing for their “movement to empower the residents to make this their home for long-term care,” explained Vicki Hughes, Administrator of Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab. “Instead of being an institutional model of a nursing home we empower the residents to make this their home. We make sure that we are granting all of their wants, needs, and preferences of each and every resident. We make it about their convenience, not about our convenience. The medical model is secondary to the person that they are. They are not defined by their illness, we really try to learn as much as we can about that person, no matter what the disease process is, so that we can make sure they are getting what they need and want.” “Typical nursing homes suffer from three plagues, loneliness, helplessness, and boredom” and Hughes explained that they do their best to insure that none of those things occur at Rich Mountain Nursing. Providing activities, learning the patients and knowing when their birthday is or maybe the anniversary of the death of a loved one, the staff knows their patients and go the extra step to make sure that patient still has a good day. They have cooking classes where they sell the goodies they bake to raise money for their annual Halloween Spooktacular. “The Halloween Spooktacular is provided and run by the residents, they raise the money and buy the candy,” said Hughes. A ‘gun range’ has also been implemented where residents can target practice with rifles and handguns. “The residents love it. We started with some men and now even have women. It’s a fierce competition because whoever wins gets to go to the restaurant of their choice and eat the meal of their choice. Another way they empower residents is by getting them involved in the decision making process. Allowing a panel of residents to help in the hiring process of a new ‘shower person’ is one example. Qualified applicants are interviewed and approved by residents because, as Hughes put it, “they are the ones being bathed by that person and they should have a say in it.” She added, “Having a compassionate and consistent staff is one reason for our success. We’ve changed our culture and the staff and residents both benefit.” Instead of ‘halls’ they have ‘neighborhoods’ and small changes such as that, create a culture that is proving to be a success. Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab also received the ‘Best Rehab to Home’ award. Hughes explained that part of their success is attributed by all departments working together, such as the Activities Director working with the Rehab Director, to make sure extra activities coincide with rehab treatments and everyone stays on the same page, benefitting the patient. Personal plans are created for each patient to fit their needs and for rehab patients, to get become more independent and move back home as soon as they can. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
National Family Caregiver Support Program
Caregiver Support Meeting • December 7, 2015 at 11:15 am
If you are a caregiver of an adult 60 years and older please come join us. This information could be extremely helpful to you. The topic will be “Nutrition for Seniors” presented by Kim Hughes, Polk County Extension Office. For information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373. Hope to see you there. Refreshments will be served.
The Cossatot Senior Center
7366 Hwy 71 S • Wickes, AR 71973 • Office: 870-385-2373
EAST to Take Part in Largest Learning Event in History
Joins Lions Club to Talk Computer Science/ Community Service BY MELANIE BUCK Mena High School’s EAST students were recent special guests of the Mena Lions Club. EAST Facilitator Tyra Hobson brought along students Sarai Stockton, CJ Spurling, Mike Medford, and Clint Buck to explain what EAST is and the importance of the class to future students. EAST is also looking forward to participating in the largest learning event in history, the Hour of Code. EAST is best explained as a way to implement technology to try to solve problems in the community. Students in EAST can do anything from learning how to make a website, to writing code in computer programming, to learning how to produce a slideshow, or how to make blueprints for a home. Mike Medford spoke first and explained the process he used to build Mena School’s state tournament website. Medford has also learned how to build an Ethernet cable from scratch, among many other things. CJ Spurling has done things such as making professional-style posters for upcoming events to teaching senior citizens at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab how to use a tablet or check their email. Sarai Stockton has specialized in Adobe Premier Training and has pulled together power point presentations, with her most recent being for the Veteran’s Day Luncheon where students also served veterans. Stockton CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
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December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
Thanksgiving Day and didn’t slow down until the weekend was up, causing many to spend their four-day holiday indoors. ABOVE is the bridge on County Road 671 that was impassable over the weekend. The only damage to the bridge was on the approach and county road crews had it repaired by Monday. “We are pretty fortunate that there wasn’t a whole lot of damage done. There were several typical spots where water came over the bridges or roads became impassable. Unfortunately, until the terrain dries out, there isn’t much we can do to complete some of our fall projects,” said Polk County Judge Ellison.
The holiday fun kicks off as the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce presents “A Candy Land Christmas” themed parade. The parade will roll down Mena Street on Saturday, December 5th, 2015 at 6pm, continuing on to Oak Avenue, DeQueen Street, Hwy 71 South and 7th Avenue, ending at the historic Janssen Park. Christmas themed entries will include illuminated and brightly decorated floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and nonprofit groups. Sure to be a hit this year is all three county school bands will march and play. Students from Mena, Acorn, and Cossatot River will line up to help spread the Christmas cheer. This year’s Grand Marshall is Larry Dunaway, the Chamber’s 2014 Volunteer of the Year. There will be a contest for the floats or entries with the best interpretation of the theme: “A Candy Land Christmas.” Parade line-up begins at 5:30 p.m. The Chamber Board of Directors offer a few safety reminders for parade onlookers: *)Parents are asked to help ensure the safety of all children by not allowing them to go into the street during the parade while trying to get the candy and goodies. Walking candy tossers are encouraged to “toss to the curb” in efforts to help too. *) Please do not park any vehicles along the parade route, as this limits and blocks the viewing area of the parade. Contact the Chamber office for more information on Mena’s largest parade at 479-394-2912. Be sure to follow Santa and the parade to Janssen Park for the Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission’s Christmas Festival featuring Lana Gail & the Gail Force performing Christmas music followed by the spectacular annual fireworks display, and then close the evening with the official lighting of Janssen Park by the City of Mena. The lighting is celebrating it’s 20th year since part of a large collection was donated in 1996 (see page 13 story for the history of Mena’s Christmas lights). Following the parade and festival will be the 12th annual Community Nativity Festival. More than 200 sets of nativity scenes of all sizes and from many countries will be on display for all to see. The Nativity Festival is held each year at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 401 9th Street in Mena. Contact Carol at 47-243-0905 for more information. Adjacent to the park, First United Methodist Church will have their annual live nativity scene for onlookers to enjoy and remember the reason for the season. For more information on the events listed, visit the Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission’s web site at www. VisitMena.com, call the Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission at 479-394-8355.
HOLLY SPRINGS REAL ESTATE, LLC 479-394-4200 • Toll Free 1-888-394-4200 • 1114 A Hwy 71 South, Mena
www.HollySpringsRealEstate.com Ready to sell? Or, are you looking for that ‘just right’ property? We’ll be glad to help you!
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
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Polk County Cove Branch Library
Glider & Ottoman Raffle
Keith and Sharon Aleshire
479-394-7301
Broker/Owners
Keith’s cell - 479-243-5341 Sharon’s cell - 479-394-8514
Starting November 30th
the Cove Branch Library will be selling chances to win a
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NEWS
Parade, Fireworks, Nativities
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Weekly Publication
Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab
(CONT. FROM PAGE 6)
“Making this a resident-directed home is what we are moving toward,” said Hughes. Occupational Therapist April Felion said, “That’s one of the best things about working here. It’s fun to work here. It’s about the residents and making quality of life for people. Some people have a better quality of life by staying here because of the activities. It’s awesome. The ones that go home always come back and thank us and let us know that we made a difference in their life.” The Center also received the 5-Star Quality Award for their facilities. During this year’s inspection from the state, Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab was ‘tag free’ meaning they had no violations in their facilities. One staff member explained why he loves Rich Mountain Nursing and why he’s been there for so long. “I love my job. The residents are the reason I’m a CNA and are an extension of my family, my moms and pops. I’ve worked here for three years and I know what my patients want and when they want it. I’m their arms and their eyes. It means a lot to me. The good Lord has placed it upon my heart. I know why I’m here and it’s to serve a higher purpose. It’s not a high paying job but God has blessed me,” said Michael Jones, a CNA for almost two decades. “We are lucky to have a leader like Vicki around here. We appreciate everything she does.” Hughes herself was also awarded a top prize at the banquet. Administrator of the Year is the top award one can receive and Hughes admitted that she was quite surprised when they called her name. “I was thrilled to receive the award. It was really nice to be recognized by the leaders of our company,” said Hughes. “I couldn’t do anything without my team. The word ‘I’ has no place here; It’s ‘we’ not ‘you.’ You can’t be a leader without followers. I’m not alone in this. The staff knows why they are here, to serve our residents, and I have some of the best staff,” smiled Hughes.
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December 2, 2015
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December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
EAST
(CONT. FROM PAGE 6)
NEWS
also implemented a photo booth at a recent school dance. Clint Buck explained the program he works with. It’s called Sketch-Up and it teaches blueprint making and architecture. In addition, to these programs, there are programs designed to teach video editing, graphic design, video and computer game-making, and more. “Each student in EAST chooses their program and they learn on their own. I’m just a facilitator that guides them through the process,” said Hobson, who has taught the EAST program for more than 15 years. Hobson holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction. Hobson led the EAST program at Mena Middle School for 13 years before moving over to Mena High School in the 2014-2015 school year. The overall theme this year in EAST is ‘community service,’ which led them to want to help with the Veteran’s Day programs as well as teaching senior citizens more about technology. Computers are everywhere these days, but fewer schools teach computer science than 10 years ago. Girls and minorities are severely underrepresented in the area as well. The state of Arkansas, and more locally, Mena High School, is finding a way to change this and create a technology savvy community, country, and planet. Governor Asa Hutchinson not only used the importance of computer science in his campaign for governor, he implemented his ideas as some of his first policies in office. One of Governor Hutchinson’s promises kept provides incentive for schools to offer computer science courses by creating a $5 million Computer Science Initiative Grants program with general improvement funding. Upon the passage of HB1183, the ‘Computer Science Bill,’ Governor Hutchinson said, “I am very pleased that the General Assembly has passed my plan to offer computer-coding classes in high schools across the state. By passing this bill, Arkansas will become a national leader in computer-science education, and we’ll be preparing a workforce that’s sure to attract businesses and jobs to our state.” The Hour of Code, organized by the nonprofit Code.org and over 100 others, is a statement that today’s generation of students are ready to learn critical skills for 21st century success. By helping students to learn more about how technology works and how to create software applications, The Hour of Code has become a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries and encourages them to spend one hour writing computer code. Students not only learn how to write code but also get to see the results of what they’ve done. Sometimes it may be for a learning game and being able to see the results of what they’ve written is an encouragement to learn more. This year’s Hour of Code is to be held during the week of December 7-13. “The students are excited to be part of a global movement, especially for something as important as this,” said Hobson. For more information, visit www.hourofcode.com. “To be able to do something you love and be paid well for it is a privilege unique in human history. In this age of technology, any person with a basic knowledge of computer programming will never lack opportunity. No matter what your age, income or station in life, simply possessing the knowledge of computer programming opens the door to a whole world of possibilities,” said Governor Hutchinson.
Unemployment
a Christmas Celebration Calvary Baptist Church
Sunday, December 13th ~ Located off of Hwy 71 S at Reine St., then onto Hwy 375 W and the church is on the left ~
Come celebrate the birth of Jesus! with music and a message at 11:00 am and a meal at Noon. You are invited. Yes, come!
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
five straight months, it is the twenty-third straight month that employment has increased. The number of employed people in Arkansas has come up by 37,600 since October of 2014. The unemployment rate in Polk County is not yet available for October 2015, however, the September rate had decreased to 5.7 percent, down two-tenths of a point from August 2015, and down a half percent from a year before in September 2014, when the rate was 6.2 percent.
Drawing of all patient portal users December 23rd! Our new patient portal allows patients to access their records from anywhere they have internet access. You can also request appointments and refills, view test results, and even send messages right to your doctor! Also, just in time for Christmas, you can enter to win an Ipad Mini 3! The rules are simple – give our office your email address by either calling us or coming into the office, follow the sign up directions provided in an email sent by our office, and once signed in send a message to your doctor stating “win ipad”. If you are already a portal user, simply send the “win ipad” message to your doctor. Employees of Mountain View Clinic and their immediate families are not eligible. Please call our office if you have any questions. 479-394-7301.
Page 10
OBITUARIES
December 2, 2015
Mary Jane Berry Correnti Mary Jane Berry Correnti, age 97, a resident of Mena, AR died Wednesday, November 25, 2015 in DeQueen Therapy and Living Center surrounded by her oldest child and her amaz-
ing Caregivers. She was born at home on November 4, 1918, the first daughter of ten children born to Harry F. Lyle and Ella J. Wolfe Lyle, in Holly Springs near Mena. She was an exceptional mother and gardener and was devoted to her church. She was a Catholic and served as a Eucharistic minister for many years, still visiting her “old folks” when she was 90. She was a member of St. Agnes Altar Society. Mary Jane was preceded in death by Hen-
Weekly Publication ry W. Berry, the father of her 10 children, and by her second husband, Joseph M. Correnti, Sr., her youngest son, John Peter “Pete” Berry, step-sons, Rev. Joseph Correnti and Vincent Correnti, and son-in-law, Dr. Griffith H. Ferrell, Jr., three brothers and their spouses, John Robert Lyle (Thelma), James Lyle (Frances), Joseph Lyle (Marietta), one sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Michie (Charles), brothersin-law, Henry Sherrill and Randall Mudd, and sister-in-law, Janet Lyle. She is survived by three sons, Henry W. Berry (Pauline), Mission Viejo, CA, Dennis A. (Becky) Berry, Bryant, AR, Timothy Berry (Dianne), Mena, AR; six daughters, Mary Jane “Dolly” Ferrell, Arkadelphia, AR, Martha Starling, (Jerry) Chandler, OK, Angela Ward (Lee), St. Hedwig, TX, Connie McMillan (Darrell), Ozark, AR, Gabrielle R. Thrailkill (Daniel, Sr.) DeQueen, AR, and Gemma Fieser (Rick), Moline, IL; daughterin-law, Chyrel Berry of Mena, AR; thirty-one grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Katherine Mudd, El Paso, TX, Patricia Sherrill, Deckard TN, and Joni Cunningham; brothers, Thomas Lyle, Albuquerque, NM and Michael Lyle (Mary Frances), Nashville, TN; and a host of nieces and nephews. She is also survived by a dear friend, Bar-
bara Waller and a faithful furry friend, Sing. A celebration of her life and visitation will be Wednesday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, AR. Funeral Mass will be Thursday, December 3 at 12 Noon with Father Juan Manjarrez as celebrant. Interment will be in Mt. Gilead Cemetery in Rocky, Arkansas.
BONNIE BONSELL SALYER Bonnie Bonsell Salyer passed into eternal rest on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at Good Shephard Nursing Home in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born June 21, 1930 in Hot Springs, South Dakota to Harold Jay and Beulah Hughes Bonsell. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, John Grafton Bonsell, her husband, Roy L. Salyer, and son-in-law, Randolph L. O’Baugh. Bonnie is survived by daughters, Bonnie L. O’baugh, Belinda S. Garvin and husband Steven; and twin sister, Sally L. Butler and husband James. Apart from her roles as a loving wife and
mother, Bonnie enjoyed a long and successful career as a teacher and counselor in schools in Wyoming, Kansas, Nevada, and Arkansas and retired from Waldron (Arkansas) Public Schools to reside on the family farm near Mena. Failing health ultimately made it necessary that she live with family in the Little Rock area. Bonnie was a proud graduate of UA-Fayetteville (BSE) and UCA (MSE). A service of remembrance will be held at Beasley Wood Chapel, Mena at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 4, 2015, with burial to follow at Old Dallas Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Polk County Humane Society or a charity of the donor’s choice.
BETTY WILLIAMS Betty Williams, age 76, of Mena, passed away Sunday, November 29, 2015 in Mena. Betty was born in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas on February 8, 1939 to the late Gilbert Beam and the late Maggie Beam. She was married to the late Ray Williams and was a loving homemaker. Betty was a CNA nurse by profession. She was a very hard worker and enjoyed helping others. She liked to
CONT. ON PAGE 11
Do you struggle with a drug or alcohol addiction? Dr. Hopper can help you with treatment and recovery counseling. Areas of specialty include:
To celebrate the occasion her family will be hosting a reception in her honor
Sunday, December 6, 2015 • 2 pm - 4 pm Housing Authority Community Room 509 South Morrow Street Mena, Arkansas
No gifts please. Your presence is the best gift you could bring.
• Anxiety • Depression • Difficulty Managing Stress • PTSD • Drug and Alcohol Addiction • Bipolar Disorder • Schizophrenia Phone: 479-394-7301 1102 Crestwood Circle, Mena Fax: 479-394-7160
Rachael Hopper, PH.D, LADAC Call or come by our office today to schedule your appointment. Also, accepting new patients! Medicaid not accepted. Private Pay Discounts Available.
Page 11
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication James McMellon Mr. James C. (J.C.) McMellon, Jr., age 91, of Mena passed away Friday, November 27, 2015 in Mena. He was born May 31, 1924 in Ink, Arkansas to James Clarence McMellon, Sr. and Jewell Garrison McMellon. As a young man he worked in the timber industry with his Dad and then as a Machine Operator for the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1940’s and then married the love of his life, Helen White, on December 24, 1945. He owned and operated several service stations in Mena over the years, then worked for Coca Cola Bottling Co. as a route salesman. He retired and raised chickens and cattle while working for Glennaire Lumber Co. and the Forest Service. He was a retired volunteer fireman for the Mena Fire Department and served on the Pension Fund Committee for several years. He was passionate about hunting and enjoyed hunting with his son, grandsons and great-grandsons at Baker Springs in Howard County. His story telling will be missed
In Loving Memory of
Chase Dawson Hilton March 3, 1984 – November 17, 2015
We would like to thank everybody for the overwhelming show of support, kindness and sympathy during our time of sorrow. It is our firm belief that our son did in fact touch many lives throughout the many roads he traveled, but what is more important is the many lives that touched him during his short time on this earth. Our family is, and will always be forever grateful for everyone’s love and support.
Rana & Harper Clair Hilton Johnny, Fran & Conn Hilton Richie, Cissy & Resa Dowdy
greatly at “deer camp.” He loved the Lord and was a member of the First Christian Church of Mena and served as a Deacon and Elder for many years, but he most enjoyed teaching Sunday School. He knew the Bible front to back and would gladly discuss the scriptures with anyone. In his later years, he attended Athens Church of Christ and really enjoyed the fellowship with that congregation. He is survived by son, Larry McMellon and Vicki Agee; grandsons, Rob McMellon and wife Amanda, Brandon McMellon and wife Stephanie, Jeremy McMellon and wife Polly, Adam McMellon and wife Stephanie; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Paulene Ferguson and Betty Brown; brother, Jimmy McMellon and wife Peggy; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Jewell McMellon; his wife, Helen McMellon; a son, Kenneth Earl McMellon; a baby daughter, Joyce Marie McMellon; and brothers Dayton, Winton, Harold, Arlon and Jerry McMellon. Funeral services were Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church of Mena with Brother Donnie Jewell, Brother Victor Rowell, and Brother Gary Garrett officiating. Interment followed in the Old Dallas Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation was Monday evening, November 30th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers were Gary McMellon, Terry McMellon, Travis Ferguson, Mike White, Steve McMellon, Brian White, Kelsey Moran, and Larry Liles. Honorary Pallbearers were Bobby Ferguson, BD White, Neal Moran, Colin White, James Mullen, Winton McMellon, Jr, Jerry White, Jack Hughes, Dennis Ferguson, and all current and retired Volunteer Firefighters.
Steve Fuchsburger Steve Fuchsberger, age 56, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 in Alabama. Memorial service will be Friday, December 4, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. at Hatfield First Baptist in Hatfield. Arrangements are under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home in Mena
Geraldine Campbell Geraldine “Jerry” Campbell, age 88, of Mena passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2015 in Mena. She was born in Coalgate, Oklahoma on July 27, 1927 to the late William Lackey and
the late Audie Lee Isbell Lackey. Geraldine was married to the late Warren C. Campbell and was a dedicated homemaker to her family. She was a female version of a ‘jack of all trades” for her family and friends. Jerry was a “Rosie Riveter” working in the defense plant in California during WWII and was proud to do for her country and family with her mother and twin sister, Billy Jean. She enjoyed woodworking and writing songs and poems about life. Jerry was very involved in the Rodeo circuit when she was younger. Jerry and husband Warren owned Campbell’s Grocery and the Farm House Restaurant where they enjoyed meeting and serving people. She enjoyed hunting for Indian artifacts and playing guitar or anything with a string. Above all, Jerry lived her life as a good Christian woman who enjoyed serving the Lord with all her heart. She worked very hard and enjoyed helping others. Jerry was a loving and kind mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed. She is survived by son, Michael Paul Campbell and wife Donna of Mena, Arkansas; daughter, Naomi Lynn Primm and husband Maurice of Mena, Arkansas; brother, Eugene Lackey and wife Pat of Red Oak, Oklahoma; sister, Quinta Sturdy and husband Bill of Coalgate, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and fourteen great-great grandchildren; special friend, Shelton Bolhman; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Audie Lee Lackey, her husband Warren Campbell, brothers, Boyd Lackey, Bugs Lackey and Hubert Lackey and sisters, Freda Tabor and twin sister, Billy Jean Ward. Funeral services were Friday, November 27, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel, with Brother Stacey Strother officiating. Interment followed in the Rocky Cemetery in Rocky under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation was general. Pallbearers were Travis Warrington, Ethan Davis, Morgan Frachiseur, Tim Kelton, Joe Ward, and Jerry Ward.
OBITUARIES
listen to gospel music and sing. Betty enjoyed making crafts with family and friends. She also loved dancing and cooking. Betty enjoyed traveling to see and visit family and friends and seeing the sights of this beautiful world. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend to all who knew her. She is survived by daughters, Linda Wilhite and husband Rodney of Mena, Arkansas, Brenda Thomas and husband Theo of Black Fork, Arkansas; son, Joe Dale Tucker and wife Raquel of Mena, Arkansas; grandchildren, Steven Pate, Cameron Wilcox, Stacy Wilcox, Amber Baker, and Christopher Thomas; step-grandchildren, David and Ricky James; six great-grandchildren and six step great-grandchildren; sisters, Bobbie Tyner of Florida and Ramona Mayfield of Florida. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ray Williams, and infant son, Alton Ray. Graveside service will be Wednesday, December 2, 2015, 2:00 p.m. at Sulphur Springs Cemetery in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation was Tuesday, December 1, 2015 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Obituaries Available @
MyPulseNews.com
Page 12
SCHOOL
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
MHS Annual Christmas Concert
SUBMITTED The Mena High School Bearcat Chorus and Spotlight Singers will present their annual Christmas Concert on Thursday, December 3, at 7 PM in the High School Auditorium. The concert will open with the combined choirs singing Paul McCartney’s seasonal hit, “Wonderful Christmastime.” The Bearcat Chorus will then take the stage to perform “Come to the Stable” followed by the Bruce Springsteen arrangement of the classic “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” featuring soloist Israel Thomasson. The mixed choir will close their portion of the program with “Winter Canon” and “Winter Wonderland,” which features the ladies of the Bearcat Chorus. The Spotlight Singers will open the second half of the concert with “White Winter Hymnal.” The award winning women’s ensemble will then sing “The Coventry Carol” followed by the Pentatonix original hit “That’s Christmas to Me” featuring soloists Brooklyn Beck, Kameron Posey, Kelsey Wiggins, and Abi McPherson. The Spotlight Singers will then perform the holiday favorite, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” with choreography by Kelsey Wiggins. The concert will close with the traditional “Carol of the Bells” featuring the combined choirs. The director of both choral groups is Ferroll “Tammy” Taylor. Accompanist is Judy Kropp. The Mena High School Art Department will have an art show in the cafeteria following the concert. Make your plans now to experience the sounds of the season and view the student art gallery. The Mena Spotlight Singers have also earned the honor to sing at the Arkansas State Capitol on December 11th, at 12 p.m.
Acorn Elementary Students of the Month
Acorn Elementary had selected the following students as the November Students of the Month from Acorn Elementary School. Students chosen have displayed excellent citizenship, exceptional academic effort/improvement and good attendance. Simple Simon’s Pizza, Goss Electronics, and Laark Enterprises provided lunch and games. Back Row: Caden Tarkinton, 3rd grade, son of Josh and Kendra Tarkinton; Jayden Willborg, 5th grade, daughter of Bobby and Rhonda Willborg; Charish Hill, 5th grade, daughter of David and Raychel Hill; Kenzie Daniels, 4th grade, daughter of Jon and Lisa Daniels; Sara Pippen, 4th grade, daughter of Allison Pippen. Middle Row: Stephanie Ham, 2nd grade, daughter of Angela and Marcus Looney; Isabella Fowler, 2nd grade, daughter of Sherry Fowler; Kohlea Carmack, 3rd grade, daughter of Lacey and Jeremy Cearley, and Zack Carmack; Izabella Lozier, Kindergarten, granddaughter of Jim and Cindy Goodner. Bottom Row: Sarah Dickerson, 1st grade, daughter of Aaron and Andrea Dickerson; Eliam Holland, 1st grade, son of Steven and Samantha Holland; Adalyn Bohlman, Kindergarten, daughter of Amanda and Scott Bohlman; Caston Horn, Kindergarten, son of Nathan and Rachel Fox
Mena Public School’s Breakfast Monday 12/07 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk Tuesday 12/08 Biscuit, sausage patty, fruit, juice, milk Wednesday 12/09 Poptart, fruit, juice, milk Thursday 12/10 Sausage & pancake on a stick, fruit, juice, milk Friday 12/11 Blueberry elfin loaf, fruit, juice, milk
Mena Public School’s Lunch Monday 12/07 Main: Hamburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, french fries, side kick, milk; Choices: Stromboli, salad, french fries, side kick, milk; or Chef Salad Tuesday 12/08 Main: Vegetable soup w/ crackers, toasted cheese sandwich, salad, fruit, milk; Choices: Steak sandwich, baked chips, lettuce, tomato, mixed vegetables, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad Wednesday 12/09 Main: Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, winter blend vegetables, hot roll, fruit, milk; Choices: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, winter blend vegetables, hot roll, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad Thursday 12/10 Main: BBQ pork sandwich, baked chips, coleslaw, baby carrots, fruit, milk; Choices: Chili dog, tator tots, coleslaw, baby carrots, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad Friday 12/11 Main: Taco salad, ranch style beans, fruit, milk; Choices: Southwest chicken tornado, ranch style beans, salad, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad Acorn School’s Breakfast Monday 12/07 Breakfast bagel, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal Tuesday 12/08 Super Donut, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal Wednesday 12/09 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk Thursday 12/10 Biscuit, gravy, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal Friday 12/11 Super bun, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal
Acorn School’s Lunch Monday 12/07 Sloppy Joes, steamed carrots, baked beans, fruit, milk Tuesday 12/08 Chicken fajita salad, whole grain crackers, ranch style beans, fruit, milk Wednesday 12/09 Beef taco pie, sweet peas, tossed salad, applesauce, milk Thursday 12/10 Chicken taco soup, tortilla chips & salsa, tossed salad, pears, milk Friday 12/11 Spaghetti, garlic bread, corn, tossed salad, fruit, milk
ver School’s Breakfast Monday 12/07 Cinnamon bun, apple sauce, orange juice, milk Tuesday 12/08 Biscuit & gravy, craisins, apple juice, milk Wednesday 12/09 Cereal, apple wedges, cherry juice, milk Thursday 12/10 Pancake on a stick, fruit cup, orange juice, milk Friday 12/11 Super donut, orange wedges, apple juice, milk
Cossatot River School’s Lunch Monday 12/07 Chicken noodle soup w/ crackers, cheese toast, carrots & broccoli w/ dressing, peaches, milk Tuesday 12/08 Beef strips, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, strawberries, roll, cake, milk Wednesday 12/09 Chicken wrap, tossed salad w/ dressing, pears, chocolate chip cookie, milk Thursday 12/10 Hamburger, french fries, lettuce, tomato, pickles, mandarin oranges, milk Friday 12/11 Chicken crispito, cheese stick, tossed salad w/ dressing, strawberries, ice cream, 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
Page 13 Weekly Publication
History of Christmas Lights
December 2, 2015 (CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
NEWS
CHOPPING BLOCK STEAKHOUSE
Gift Certificate Buy a $30 certificate and
GET $5 FREE
that the display became a reality in 1996. Jennings Osborne, the man who, in 1995, had the huge and yet controversial display of Christmas lights at his home in Little Rock made the decision to “downsize” and share it with communities throughout Arkansas. Jennings was a personal friend of one of Walker’s brothers, and he had ties to Mena, so Walker approached him about Mena being one of the Christmas display sites and he was delighted. Jennings brought in an extraordinary display and he had a crew that brought the components in, working with the City of Mena Parks Department. The City of Mena made the necessary electrical upgrades to handle the large capacity of electricity needed. For the first “official lighting,” Jennings wanted to do something very special for the people of Mena and facilitated bringing the real “Mickey and Minnie” from Disney World to serve as the grand marshals for the annual Christmas Parade. Jennings paid for their transportation and wages, besides an elaborate $25,000 spectacular fireworks display. Jennings also provided frames and lights for additional figures for the display, which led to a continued effort for in the following years of assembling frames, adding lights to them and expanding the holiday display. Each year since then, the Mena Parks Department has created and designed their own displays to add to the park. Their crews have to begin work in late October and early November each year to assemble the thousands of twinkling lights. The Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission began sponsoring the fireworks display and has combined the parade and park activities into an annual Christmas Festival that local residents and tourists can look forward to each December.
towards next visit
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New remodel
Prime Rib Dinner Special $15.99
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Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
•394-1938• Owner : Stacy & Julie Nash
Page 14
MULTI-COLORED BEANIES Strother Decor is your beanie headquarters
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 2 , 2015
WAX WARMERS OF ALL STYLES These rustic vintage style warmers are beautiful and compliment any home!
BEAUTIFUL WINE BOTTLE STYLE LAMP....all styles, sizes, & shapes to choose from
WOODEN PALLET SNOWMEN Lots of local handcrafted decor
5' tall snowmen and girl are at STROTHER DECOR.....hundreds of snowmen of all sizes to choose from
SWAN CREEK CANDLES These hot chocolate candles make the perfect gift! After burning the candle, use the ENAMEL WARE CUP....Mmmmmm....
OLD STYLE SANTA WITH GUN.....we have a HUGE selection of SANTAS...Some even 7' tall....STROTHER DECOR is your 1 stop for unique decorating ideas....
We carry a LARGE selection of antique & vintage style REPLICA TINS in stock
ROOSTER OR HEN CHALKBOARD several to choose from. LOOKS GREAT AND ONLY $12
MASON JAR LAMPS WE STOCK THESE IN 3 SIZES These would make beautiful CHRISTMAS GIFTS
December 2, 2015
Hot Cider, Hot Chocolate, Coffee & Sweet Treats
15% OFF
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Mena’s only Family Shoe Store
Christmas
SIP & SHOP
Enter to Win $200 Gift Card to TFL
Mena Regional
Gift Shop
Shop our specials
each week until Christmas!
Trendy Shoes and Clothes
Shoaplly 479-394-8055 822 Mena Street, Mena Loc Monday - Friday • 10am - 5pm Saturday • 10am - 4:30pm
Reg. Price Merchandise
(1 Entry for every $20 spent)
Page 15
We will be open early during the Auxiliary Breakfast on December 3rd at the cafeteria in the hospital. Located in the lobby of MRHS Monday-Friday 10am to 4pm
General Store and Indoor Flea Market
Wide Selection of Bibles 609 Mena Street • shopthefairlady.com Open 10-6 Tuesday-Friday • 10-4 Saturday
Various Translations & Imprinting
622 Mena Street 479-234-4990
Store Hours: Wed. - Sat. • 10 am - 4 pm 3354 Hwy 71 S., Mena
We Sell Stuff!
FREE Giſt Wrapping 394-0663
Page 16
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 2, 2015
Raulo Rocker Recliner 4 colors available Your Choice
Christmas SALE 0% Interest
$299
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 17
great holiday savings!
Ludden Rocker Recliner 4 colors available
Your Choice
$349
Wyatt Bedroom Group Includes Queen Bed, Dresser, Mirror & Night Stand
Alonzo 5 Piece Dining Group
Includes 54� Counter Height Table & 4 Bar Stools
$649
for 6 months* *with approved credit
Mestler Dining Group
WIN A FREE
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RECLINER!
Nothing to buy, just come by and register. Drawing Dec. 24th.
December 2, 2015
Garek Reclining Sofa or Loveseat Available in 3 colors Your Choice
$599
$1449
Larkinhurst Earth Loveseat Sofa
$599
$549
ery
Page 18
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 2 , 2015
AT D U K E ’ S J U N C T I O N 2 5 8 4 H W Y. 7 1 N Sausage Making Kit
$14.95
Home Basic Milk House Heater Electric - $26.99 Holiday Lights 70 Snowflakes - $9.99 50 Snowflakes - $7.99 Mini Mag Lite with Holder - $9.99 New Assortment of Saw Bars and Chains Jersey Gloves - $.89/Pair Solar Powered Holiday Sidewalk Light - $1.79 each Storm TEC Fleece Socks - $4.99 Nebo SLYDE Flashlight - $22.95 Hang On Tree Stand - $54.95 5x7 Tarp - $2.99 4 1/2 Angle Grinder Dewalt - $54.95 E-Z View Rain Gauge - $3.99 12 ft 8 Gauge Booster Cable - $10.95 7.5 & 8.5 Diamondback Boots - $29.95 1/2 4x8 Single Foil Insulation - $5.99 RCV Beadboard 4x8 - $18.99 R-13-15 40 sq ft - $12.95
l l a m o r f f us o Craftsman Circular Saw
$29.99 7 1/4”
6 Qt. Popcorn Popper Old Fashioned
$22.95
Electric Meat Grinder
$99.95
Mr. Heater Propane Top
$29.95 Single
Bayou Classic Outdoor Cooker
$49.99
Uncle Henry Old Timer & Case Knives
10% OFF through Christmas
Iron Horse Compressor
with Combo Nail, Staple & Brad Gun & Hose
$149.95
Prices Good Thru December ??, 2015
December 2, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 19
Jewelry, Handbags, Accessories & Much More
Only $25 Locket
with 3 Charms
Northside Shopping Center Mena, AR • 479-394-1992 Holiday Hours: 10 am - 6 pm Mon. - Sat. Sun. 12 pm - 6 pm
OPEN 7 DAYS
A WEEK Find us on Facebook
479-394-4535 • 908 Mena St., Mena
Arthur Court Home Decor, Tyler Candles, Rhythm Musical Clocks, Baby Gifts
Gift Certificates
For the chef on your Christmas List: * Unique Nordic Bakeware * Eat & Explore Arkansas Cookbook & Lots of unique Christmas Ideas!
FREE GIFT WRAPPING Florist: Shelton Bohlman 800 Janssen Ave. Mena, AR 71953 479-394-8019 • Mon. - Sat. 8 am - 6 pm
Open Sun. 10-2 Open 7 Days A Week 813 Mena St.
394-3456
Page 20
CITIZEN
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
Jason Head - More Than Just a Volunteer
BY JACLYN ROSE Born and raised in Mena and a 1995 graduate of Mena High School, Jason Head, went to work for the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department in general maintenance immediately following high school and has now celebrated twenty years with them. In 2004, he married Christi Head, an in-home daycare provider, and he has two step-children, Kalie and Jarrett. Head spends his days working for the State of Arkansas but more importantly, he spends many of his evenings and his weekends serving the people of Polk County in a truly honorable fashion. Head is a volunteer firefighter and EMT, a role that is vital to the community. Head has been trained through the Camden Fire Academy and attended EMT School at RMCC, he is a an adjutant fire instructor through the Academy, which means he can teach any class that he has taken to other firefighters. He spends much of his time teaching these classes, as well as CPR and First Aid. Above and beyond a regular volunteer, Head serves at the Mena Fire Department, the Dallas Valley Fire Department and the Board Camp Fire Department. He also serves as the Vice-President of the Western Arkansas Fire and Rescue Association which covers all of Western Arkansas. His CPR classes are available to anyone who needs certification, as well as State employees. All of the work done by Head is volunteer. He is not compensated for his time and effort. “I see the need to help out in the community. Too many people are worried about what they can get out of it and not what they can give. In this profession, we help people in their worst moments,” explained Head, who began volunteering over twenty years ago, while still in high school. “I don’t sleep much,” he added. Friday The need in Polk County for more volunteer firefighters is great, with a small 12.11.2015 community and a small paid staff at the fire department the need for strong, young volunteers grows every year. If anyone is interested in serving their community this 7 pm way, please contact Jamie Reeves at the Polk County Department of Emergency Management at the Courthouse. “I would recommend volunteering to anyone, it Saturday is so rewarding to be able to give back to your community and help your neighbor 12.12.2015 in this way. We never know when it may be us in need of the help, so we need to start helping others now. We all are a bunch of good ole boys who do it just for love 7 pm of our community and no other reason. We want to help our community and our neighbors in need. Mena is great, you couldn’t ask for a better place to live and Sunday better people to live around. Everybody is always there when you need anything,” 12.13.2015 said Head.
“We want to help our com-
munity and our neighbors in need. Mena is great, you can’t ask for a better place to live and better people to live around. Everybody is always there when you need anything.”
10 am & 6 pm
Assisted Living wants to welcome you . . .
CMA Building @ Iron Mountain Crossing Polar Express
Page 21 Weekly Publication
Quality Construction Paul Headings • 479-234-7553
3855 Hwy 88 E, Mena, Arkansas 71953
Roofing General Construction Power Washing Painting Siding Handyman Services
Your Satisfaction is Our Goal
House Wash - $199* *1800 sqft vinyl home
Manufacturer of Quality CNC Parts
479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344
FULL ATV SERVICE & REPAIR
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Bruce’s
Appliance Service Repairs done in your home.
Bruce Erickson, Owner
The Corner - Serving Residents Much More than Fuel
BY JACLYN ROSE The Corner located at 1100 Highway 71 North, in the Atwood’s Shopping Center is a full service gas station and convenience store that offers both E10 and gas without ethanol. The service goes beyond your average gas station with a large, fresh, hot, and homemade breakfast menu and a daily hot plate lunch special. Ronnie and Mitzi Duckett purchased The Corner from Larry Stricklin in 2011 and immediately got to work adding a dining area and expanding the store. They added well-known local cook Jack Holland to their staff and he brought on Kathy Lance, who added many more years of experience to the crew. Every morning the breakfast, which includes, chocolate gravy, regular biscuits and gravy, breakfast sandwiches, bacon, sausages, hot links, hash browns, home fries, eggs and breakfast burritos, is cooked fresh and available from 5:30 am until 10:30 am. On Monday through Friday, from 11 am until 2 pm, you can get the daily hot plate lunch special. Monday’s and Tuesday’s the chef’s choice is served, Wednesday is Kathy’s Fried Chicken and Thursday is Jack’s Meatloaf with Fish on Friday. Hamburgers are available during lunch on Monday through Friday and Hunt’s Pizza is available anytime The Corner is open for business. The Ducketts were married in 2002 and between them have a blended family with four children, four grandchildren, and two more on the way. Mitzi worked for Wendy’s and Exxon for the last twelve years, and was the manager for the past eight years. There she gained a lot of knowledge and experience in her industry. Ronnie served Polk County as a High School Agriculture Teacher for many years, first at Hatfield High School and then at Mena High School, he then went on to manage the bus garage until he retired. Both hometown people, the Ducketts are true members of the community who run a locally owned and operated convenience store that takes pride in its community. “We are a little unique as a local hometown store, we may see the same people two to three times a day, every day; hardworking people, we offer them consistent, friendly service with a personal touch,” explained Ronnie. The Corner has recently been enlarged and the Ducketts are working to make it even bigger. Within Mitzi’s two year plan is a larger selection of cold drinks, with a full fountain stand, a much larger cooler and a larger family-oriented dining area. According to the Ducketts, the new facelift given to the Atwood’s Shopping Center has been a big blessing to their store location and business. “We are so thankful for the people in Polk County, as well as the beauty and the area. It was recently named the number one city in Arkansas to retire in,” said Mitzi. “It’s nice to have the ability to live and CALL 479-243-9600 work in a city others want to retire in,” added Ronnie. “We are so thankful for our hometown crowd, we appreciate them so much. They are our people, both “Serving your families with in Mena and Acorn, they Dignity & Care for over 80 years” are so good to us and Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent Member of the National Funeral without them we wouldn’t Directors Assoc. have a business. They 611 Janssen, Mena, AR are why we are here and (479) 394-1310 who we serve,” Mitzi said. “I was fortunate to work at two good school systems. There was no way I could have left Polk County and improved my situation at all. We are so grateful to the people in our community,” Ronnie said.
479-234-3570
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December 2, 2015
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December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
SPORTS
2015 Ladycat Softball Champions Get “Blinged”
The 2015 State Softball Champion Mena Ladycats received their championship rings on Tuesday, November 22nd, during a special center in the Performing Arts Center, for their hard work, dedication, and love of the sport of softball. The Ladycats claimed victory in May over the Bauxite Lady Miners to bring home the state title and for several of the young ladies, their second state championship ring, the first in 2014 for volleyball, the second for their softball victory. The Ladycat softball team is coached by Ray Hunter and assisted by Scott Wright. More photos can be found online at MyPulseNews.com under the sports tab.
Rich Mountain Lumber
Hatfield, Arkansas Currently buying delivered Pallet Wood, Pulp Wood, and Pine Pulp Wood. Call for NEW prices. Buying standing timber and timberland
Please Call 870-389-6464 For a free estimate of your standing timber or timberland
OPEN 2 WEEKENDS Dec. 4-6 & 11-13 Fridays & Saturdays 9 am - 5 pm
Sundays
2 pm - 5 pm
Saturday Night, December 5
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479-394-3787
25% OFF any 2 items Excluding Clearance Merchandise
Celebrate the Reason for the Season Enjoy over 400 Nativity Scenes from around the world loaned by local families.
Free admission & refreshments.
12th Annual Community Nativity Festival on display at First Presbyterian Church 401 9th Street
Book Your Holiday Parties NOW! Call 479-437-3240
Located on the Corner of Sherwood & 7th Street in Mena
McMellon Construction Backhoe & Dump Truck Service • Fill Dirt • Gravel • Water & Electric Lines Dozer Service • Septic Tank Installation & Repairs • Demolition
ALL TYPES OF CONCRETE WORK: House & Shop Pads, Driveways, Sidewalks, etc.
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December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
MENA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM Nicole Dollarhide and Mark Carver, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on November 29th.
Bisbee Celebrates 70 Years of Marriage
#LOL
Christmas Jokes Question: What do you call an elf who sings? Answer: a wrapper! Question: What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus? Answer: Claustrophobic
Question: What do you call an obnoxious reindeer? Answer: RUDEolph
We’re always on. . . We’re always current! powered by
FAMILY
POLK COUNTY BIRTHS AT
source: http://www.jokes4us.com/holidayjokes/christmasjokes/
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Send us your 1st & 100th Birthday, King and Katherine Bisbee will celebrate their 70th anniversary December 12, 2015 at the Mena Mountain Resort Lodge on Hwy 71 North. Anytime between 2 pm - 5 pm on Saturday, December 5th. No gifts.
CUTEST PET PIC
Kaceland
Kaceland doesn’t let having only one eye stop him from enjoying life to the fullest with his mom Juanita Howard 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
This week’s Cutest Pet Pic made possible by your friends at:
Family Reunions, Anniversaries, Engagements/Weddings, Birth Announcements and we will print them
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December 2, 2015
CALENDAR
Thursday, 12/3 • 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. • 5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th Street Ministries building. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. • 5:30 p.m. – Ouachita Regional Hospice’s “Growing Through Grief” support group meets at the Hospice office, 1106 South Mena Street. For more information, call 394-1134. • 6:00 p.m. – Disabled Veterans Meeting, Potluck & Awards Presentation at the American Legion 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. • 7:00 p.m. – The Ink RVFD Business Meeting &
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
Weekly Publication Polk County Library will be open. They will have a free sign language class at 3:00 p.m. • 5:00 p.m. – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets at Hatfield City Hall. For more information call 870-389-6678. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. • 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome. • 6:30 p.m. – Shady Grove RVFD business and training meeting. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – AWANA Clubs meet at Grace Bible Church Highway 71 North on Monday evenings. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous 12 + 12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For more information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. • 7:00 p.m. – Potter RVFD meeting at the Fire Station. • 7:00 p.m. – Acorn RVFD meeting will be at the Fire House. • 7:00 p.m. – Mena Emblem Club meets at the Elks Lodge. Tuesday, 12/8 • 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardener Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission open in the 9th Street Ministries Building. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. For more information, call 479-394-3880. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Free Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen at Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk 43, Mena. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters In Action Card Shop will be open at 3671Highway 8 West. • 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. • 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. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. • 7:00 p.m. – The Dallas Valley R.V.F.D. meet for maintenance at the Firehouse. • 7:00 p.m. – The Rocky Fire Department will meet. 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 at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. For information, call 479-234-2887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday, 12/9 • The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Hatfield, Wickes, Grannis, Vandervoort, Cove, and Mena. • 11:30 a.m. – Polk County Retired Teachers will meet at Papa’s Mexican Restaurant for a dirty Santa Christmas party. Bring a gift priced between $10 to $15.00 to exchange. All retired school employees and their spouses are invited to attend. Host: Donnie Johnson. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch of
the Polk County Library is open. • 12:00 p.m. – Quality of Life Outreach meeting at La Villa Restaurant. • 5:30 p.m. – The RMCC Board of Trustees will hold their monthly meeting in the RMCC Board room. • 5:45 p.m. – The Mena First United Methodist Church Kidz will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. • 6:00 p.m. – The Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Celebrate Recovery will begin in Room 112. • 6:00 p.m. – The Southside Church of God Warriors for Christ will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – Regeneration Youth Ministries “Regenerating this Generation” at Mena Church of God at 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. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students is held Wednesday evenings at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 6:30 p.m. – Team Kids for kids ages 3 years through the 4th Grade meets at the Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – Book Study, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For info call 394-7386 or 216-4606. • 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Inquiry classes into the Catholic Faith begins in the basement of St. Agnes Catholic Church at 203 8th St. There is no cost or obligation and anyone interested is invited to attend. Call 394-1017 or 394-5655 for more information.
• MHS CLASS OF ’59 The Mena High School class of 1959 has scheduled its Christmas meeting for Thursday, December 10th, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at the Chopping Block Steakhouse. Dutch treat. Spouses & friends are welcome. If you have questions call 394-6621 or 394-4478. • PCDC recycles #1 and #2 plastics. These items are ACCEPTED: All liquid dishwashing, shampoo, plastic soda, laundry detergent, vitamin and water bottles, milk jugs. Items NOT ACCEPTED include PVC plastic and clamshell food containers. Drop off at 205 S. Morrow St. in Mena, AR. Thank you for helping us help others. * Nativity Festival at First Presbyterian Church, Dec. 5th, 10 -5; Dec. 6th, 10 - after parade; Dec. 7th, 1-4; Dec. Dec. 11th, 10-5; Dec. 12th, 10-5; Dec. 13th, 1-4. * Live Nativity at First Methodist Church following Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6th.
BEATS
Training will be at the community building. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous 12 + 12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For more information call, 394-7396 or 216-4606. • 7:30 p.m. – Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 meets at the Mena Lodge located in the Old Post Office by Janssen Park. Friday, 12/4 • 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. • 10:00 a.m. – Gater & Friends will meet at Cossatot Senior Center, Wickes. • 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. • 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Dance to Don Thompson & Talimena Drive Band, American Legion, Acorn, $6.00 admission. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at 812 Highway 71 South, Mena. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Saturday, 12/5 • 1:00 p.m. – There will be an M.S.A.A. Support Group meeting in Room 156 at RMCC. • 2:30 p.m. – Old Lyric Players (Seniors Readers’ Theater) meets at Subway on the highway. Participants 50 years of age and older are welcome. For further info, contact Janelle Baldwin 479-243-6486. • 6:00 p.m. – Annual Alder Springs Community Center Christmas Party, Polk 48 & 40. Bring a food dish to share and a Secret Santa gift. For more info call 234-1748. • 6:00 p.m. – Gospel Singing at the Little Hope Baptist Church near Pine Ridge with dinner following. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For more info call 394-7396 or 2164606. Sunday, 12/6 • 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For info call 394-7396 or 216-4606. • 2:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. – Ouachita Center at Rich Mountain Community College is showing the movie War Room at 2PM & again at 5PM. Admission is $5.00/Free to students with RMCC ID. • 2:30 p.m. – ABATE (Arkansas Bikers Aiming Toward Education) monthly meeting at Limetree Restaurant. Officers meeting at 2:30; general meeting at 3:00 p.m. • 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 6:00 p.m. – The Redeemed Worship band benefit concert at First Christian Church. Excellent meal at 5:00 p.m. provided by Hot Rod’s Barbeque of Ft. Smith, $10.00 a plate. Proceeds to support Genesis One Prison Ministry. • 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. Monday, 12/7 • 11:15 a.m. – Cossatot Senior Center Caregiver Support Meeting for caregivers of an adult 60 years and older at 7366 Hwy 71 S., Wickes. For more information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373. • 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch of the
December 2, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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Corporate Office: 1311-C Hwy 71 North • Mena, AR 71953 479-394-7300 • Visit us at swemsar.com
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AT THE CAPITOL
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
Broadband Internet Proving Efficient Learning Tool for Students
BY state senator larry teague LITTLE ROCK – In schools with high speed Internet access, teachers can post photographs and video clips of classroom projects online, where parents can see what their children are doing. Students with access to broadband don’t have to miss class time when winter weather turns bad. They can do lessons that have been specifically assigned for snow days. Students who need help with math or English can take specialized courses from a digital curriculum, made available because of access to broadband. As more schools gain high speed Internet access, there will be more stories of how computer links make learning more efficient, more specialized, more available in isolated areas, more enriching and more advanced. Arkansas has expanded the availability of high speed Internet in classrooms. According to an organization called EducationSuperHighway our improvements have been “phenomenal.” EducationSuperHighway is a non-profit organization that promoted digital learning, which recently released its annual “State of the States” report. According to its survey of every state, 79 percent of Arkansas school districts meet the minimum goal of being able to move 100 kilobits of data per second per student. That is up from 58 percent last year. Nationally, 77 percent of all schools meet the minimum goal. The governor and legislative leaders are emphasizing the expansion of broadband access as a method of improving Arkansas schools. State officials and educators hope that within two years all school districts in Arkansas will meet the minimum goals for broadband access.
Williams Medical Clinic, L.L.C.
Omit the 800 number and Dr. Robert S. Williams, M.D. All Major Insurance Accepted 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953
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Fighting Terrorism
According to EducationSuperHighway, 100 percent of the schools in Hawaii and Wyoming now have high speed Internet access. Progress over the past two years can largely be attributed to increases in funding and a steady decline in the cost of Internet services, the organization reported. Nationwide, 23 percent of school districts with 21.3 million students lack broadband access at the minimum goals of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which funds some projects to connect schools to the Internet. The state’s efforts to connect all schools with high speed Internet received a boost in September when the FCC awarded a $54 million grant to two telecommunications companies that operate in Arkansas. The companies applied for the grants under a national program called Connect America. They will pay for lines to about 100,000 homes and businesses in rural areas. This school year marks the first time that all Arkansas public high schools are required under state law to offer computer science classes. Public Charter Schools The state Education Department’s committee that authorizes charter schools has approved requests by three school districts to open schools with innovative methods. Springdale was approved to open a 1,400 student high school in which English will not have to be the only basic language for instruction. Classes will be taught in English, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. Hot Springs was approved for a 1,200 student high school with night classes and alternative schedules, online courses and on-site instruction with local businesses. Students will get a head start on associate degrees and industry certificates. Gentry was approved for a 500 student charter school that will emphasize health care, transportation and information technology, job skills in demand by local businesses.
BY u.S. senator john boozman The barbaric acts of terrorism carried out by the Islamic State (ISIS) terror organization in Paris, France and Beirut, Lebanon are an assault on democracy, our freedoms and our way of life. Innocent people are victims of this brutal terrorist organization in gruesome fashion. These tragic events unified the resolve of people all over the world to fight and defeat the threat of radical Islamic extremism. The ruthlessness of ISIS knows no bounds or borders. We must take action to stop ISIS before it can carry out an attack on American soil. The number one priority of the federal government is to ensure our national security. Unfortunately, polls conducted in the wake of the Paris terrorist attacks shows Americans are less confident in their safety here at home. While the President says ISIS is contained, his former National Security Advisor, Thomas Donilon, recently said on CBS’ Face the Nation that the terrorist network has “metastasized.” ISIS represents a serious threat and its about time the President understands the gravity these terrorists pose to our homeland. President Obama has never presented a strategy to Congress for eliminating ISIS and our sporadic airstrikes have done nothing to stop ISIS from gaining ground and strengthening its global reach. Instead of leading on this issue and taking immediate steps to implement a plan to defeat ISIS—a group he once dubbed as the “jayvee team”—the President called the Paris attacks a “setback” and has offered no change in our current strategy, which is clearly failing. Arkansans are concerned that President Obama does not have an effective plan to protect Americans at home and defeat ISIS abroad. They are worried that in its efforts to attack our country, ISIS will infiltrate the refugee population fleeing the civil war in Syria and gain access to our country through our nation’s refugee program. That’s why Senator Tom Cotton and I called for a temporary moratorium on resettling Syrian refugees until the American people have the confidence there is a verifiable security vetting procedure in place to prevent terrorists from this region from gaining entry through our country’s willingness to help refugees. The House of Representatives took action to protect the American people against the threat of ISIS by passing the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act of 2015. The legislation improves our nation’s vetting process for Syrian refugees coming to the United States and prevents individuals associated with terrorism from entering our country. I look forward to supporting similar legislation in the Senate. I will continue to support policies that protect our nation from threats to our security. Dangers facing our country are evolving and we must have the policies in place to defend our nation. We stand with France and Lebanon and mourn the victims of these horrific attacks.
MENA REAL ESTATE
Farrell & Sharon Cole
The Cole Team
816 S. Mena St. Mena, AR 71953 Office: (479) 394-5000 www.FarrellCole.com www.MenaRealEstate.com
Prices effective November 25 - December 29, 2015
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Same location for over 45 years
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Weekly Publication
Ouachita River School District is proud to announce they received AdvancED School System Accreditation in 2015. The requirements to receive AdvancED Performance Accreditation: • Meet the AdvancED standards and accreditation policies. • Demonstrate quality assurance through internal and external reviews. • Engage in continuous improvement. The purpose of the AdvancED reviews is to shine a light on both hidden flaws and unexpected strengths and empower the schools and the district to move forward.
More than a school, we are a family!
Ouachita River Wellness Clinic on the Acorn School Campus Grethen Goodnight, APN - Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
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Healthy Connections - 437-3449 • Ouachita River Wellness Clinic - 394-2932
The Propensity to Propagate
OPINION
Ouachita River Receives AdvancED School System Accreditation
December 2, 2015
BY MICHEAL REISIG Every time I go into Wal-Mart and see the weary-looking mother dragging two or three children behind her, with one in the cart and another in the oven, I have to ask myself, “What possessed this person to propagate herself out of a life? Was it intentional, or just purely a case of negligence and indifference? Whatever it is, it is historically consistent, and not totally a result of a particular nationality, religion, or race. Some of us simply seem to have a propensity to procreate ourselves into poverty more than others, and this becomes a bitter, disastrous cycle, which has a significant effect on the rest of us. I’ll be honest with you: in many respects I think it’s a blind selfishness – assuming someone else will pick up the tab – and I’m tired of paying more than my share. Whether you believe that this unconstrained conjugation is a good thing or a bad thing, no one can argue that this is dramatically affecting the world as we know it, and the future of the world for those who will inherit it. We have always bred with a natural ferocity – it was a necessary part of survival when, in the past, attrition due to nature, beasts, and our fellow man, was well over 50 percent. But today, we have developed more ways to defeat numerous diseases, and the great equalizers such as plagues are no longer as much of an issue. In addition, we have gone through nearly a hundred years without a major world war. All of this sounds good. But we are basically changing the natural process. We are growing more people than we have the natural resources to accommodate. More than 7 billion people currently inhabit the planet, compared to only 3 billion in 1967. (Think about those numbers and that incredible growth/timeframe for just a moment.) Only 200 years ago the world population was a comfortable 1 billion. Every year about 135 million people are born and 55 million people die, adding 80 million to our global population. (Eighty million people a year!) Adding insult to injury, we have places like Africa and the Middle East, where the practice of birth control is non-existent, and the concept of “child brides” is growing with frightening momentum. Those areas have developed a process of “children making children” that diminishes not only the quality of life but the ability for certain stratums of people to advance in any fashion. The cultural practices in those countries, or the lack of cultural ethics, combined with a constant regional warfare and what seems to be an inability to grasp the basic elements of industry and enterprise, creates a new, totally dependent class in a nation that can’t take care of the people it already has. At that point, the population begins to seek asylum in other countries, taking their philosophy of propagation without logic with them. We’re seeing how well that’s working out. At some point we have to shift the emphasis from human rights to human responsibilities – to recognize and act on the obligations we now have individually and collectively as the primary species on this planet. One of the greatest challenges we face, is that the most significant increase in population is in the lowest economic and least educated stratums around the world (and this is significantly true in developed nations). For example, America is seeing a shrinking middle and upper class (who have a tendency to practice some degree of birth control) and a burgeoning growth in the less distinguished classes. Anyone with half a brain can see that’s a formula for disaster. Now, I’m not necessarily promoting a forced or controlled birth rate, like China. But unless we can educate people in the practice and the value of contraception, unless we move away from the concept of a people who are taken care of by their government and increase the elements of independence and responsibility, we are going to propagate ourselves into national poverty and ecological disaster.
The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the ownership and staff of The Polk County Pulse. Michael Reisig is a freelance writer and published author whose works are reproduced throughout the globe.
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HISTORY
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
Moments From America’s History En route Toward the 13th Amendment
BY JEFF OLSON The history of slavery spans nearly every culture, nationality and religion and from ancient times to the present day. 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. With slavery’s extensive and repulsive history as a backdrop, I would like to dedicate the remaining lines of this writing to briefly addressing some foundational history, which contributed to an important milestone in slavery’s eradication as a social institution in America and Western Civilization. The history leading up to the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is a long and interesting one, with a genealogy dating back to the American founding. While some of America’s Founders were slave owners through an inherited institution and culture, most considered it an abhorrent reality, which needed to be eradicated sooner than later. As a matter of fact, 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. As but one example of where some Founders stood on the issue, Benjamin Franklin and Benjamin Rush founded America’s first anti-slave society in 1774. The Declaration of Independence 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. Thomas 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.” 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 impact on the final document. They originated the three-fifths 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 barring Congress from prohibiting the importation of slaves until January 1, 1808. 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 1833, outlawing the institution of slavery in Great Britain. These measures had a positive influence on America’s anti-slavery movement during the 19th-century. Many years and subsequent battles later across the Atlantic, the 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified on December 6, 1865, officially ending the institution of slavery in America. “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within Get’s you back where you belong. the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” With these words from this moment from America’s history 150 years ago this week, the single greatest change envisioned and sought by most of our Founders, and wrought by the Civil War, was at last an official part of our Constitution.
Auto-Home-Life-Motorcycle Mobile Home-Boat-ATV
Christy Medlin Insurance Agent
MEDLIN INSURANCE AGENCY 900 Hwy. 71 N. Mena, AR 71953
LICENSED IN OKLAHOMA & ARKANSAS cmedlin@farmersagent.com 479-394-5555
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BY BARBARA M. TOBIAS It’s that time of year again! The annual Christmas sale is up at Mena Art Gallery, and on Saturday, December 5, we will be extending open hours until 7:00 pm. This is the evening of the Candyland Christmas Parade, fireworks, and the lighting ceremony for the Christmas lights at Janssen Park. The gallery will be having a bake sale that evening with hot apple cider for sale. It’s a great time to come in and warm up with a cup of cider and browse the one-of-a-kind gifts on display. Pick up some cookies or cake or other sweet treats to take home while you find special gifts to cross a few more names off your Christmas list.
Auditions Being Held for Next OLT Play
SUBMITTED Judy Thompson, director of the Ouachita Little Theatre’s winter play, Dearly Beloved, has announced that auditions will be held Tuesday, December 8, and Wednesday, December 9, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Mena Mountain Resort. Rehearsals will start in early January. Performances are scheduled for February 12-14 and 19-21. The play is a fast-paced comedy about love, marriage, sisterhood, gospel music and 300 pounds of good ol’ Texas barbeque. The fabulous Futrelle sisters of Fayro, Texas, Honey Raye, Frankie, and Twink, will have you laughing all the way down the aisle in this play of the wildly-popular Futrelle Family Texas trilogy. OLT presented the second of the three plays, Christmas Belles, two years ago. In addition to the three sisters, ages late 30s to late 40s, there are parts for four other females—three older women, and a 20-year-old who plays both of the identical twin sisters, and four males – a young seminarian and three middle-aged men who play the roles of Frankie’s husband, his best friend, and Twink’s fiancé. For more information about this play, call Judy Thompson at 216-7644.
8-LETTER AUTHORS: BALDACCI • BENCHLEY • BRADBURY • CALDWELL • CARNEGIE • CARTLAND • CHANDLER • CHRISTIE • CORNWELL • CRICHTON • CUMMINGS • FAULKNER • FLAUBERT • GINSBERG • HEINLEIN • LAWRENCE • MCMURTRY • MELVILLE • MICHENER • RAWLINGS • SALINGER • SANDFORD • SINCLAIR • SPILLANE • SPINELLI • TURGENEV • VONNEGUT
The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe Opens at OLT This Weekend SUBMITTED
Poinsettia Care
HOME & GARDEN
Christmas at the Gallery
ARTS
December 2, 2015
Weekly Publication
This weekend and next weekend will be your chance to see CS Lewis’ book “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” come to life on the stage at the Ouachita Little Theatre. The theatre’s junior group (J.O.L.T) is presenting this full-length story in a play adapted for the stage by Joseph Robinette. More than 30 young performers and crew, assisted by several adults, have worked over the last six weeks to bring the magical land of Narnia to life. If you are unfamiliar with Lewis’ works, you will discover that he is recognized as one of the great Christian authors and that his “Chronicles of Narnia,” a series of seven books, are clearly based on the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ, represented in these tales of Aslan, the great lion. Fighting the righteous fight against the evil witch and her army, Aslan’s creatures battle to rid Narnia of the witch’s eternal Winter and restore Spring, and hope, to the country, fulfilling the prophecy that four human children, “sons of Adam and daughters of Eve,” will become the benevolent rulers of Narnia, singing the praises of Aslan their savior and the “son of the Great Emperor beyond the sea.” The play is directed by high-school senior, Katie O’ Rear. The play will be presented at the OLT, 610 Mena Street on December 4th, 5th, and 6th, and 11th, 12th, and 13th. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees play at 2:30 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. For more information, call 479-234-2321.
BY KIM HUGHES The poinsettias are here! Every year, Polk County 4-H sells poinsettias as a fundraiser to support educational programs for 4-H members. These are floral quality and come directly from Arkansas’ largest greenhouse growers and cost $10 each. They come in 6” floral wrapped pots in seven different colors – red, white, pink, marble, maroon, merlot and jingle bell. Call or come by the office soon before we sell out. The poinsettia requires bright light and should be kept away from drafts. A temperature between 65 and 70 degrees is ideal. Avoid temperatures below 60 degrees and above 75 degrees. Keep plants well watered but do not overwater. Gardeners frequently ask whether they can carry their poinsettias over to bloom again next year. It is questionable whether the results are worth the effort as the quality of homegrown plants seldom equals that of commercially grown plants. However, for those who wish to try, the following procedure can be followed. After the bracts fade or fall, set the plants where they will receive indirect light and temperatures, around 55 – 60 degrees. Water them sparingly during this time. Cut the plants back to within about 5 inches from the ground and re-pot in fresh soil. As soon as new growth begins, place in a well-lighted window. After danger of frost, place the pot out of doors in a partially shaded spot. Pinch the new growth back to get a plant with several stems. Do not pinch after September 1. About Labor Day, or as soon as the nights are cool, bring the plant indoors. Continue to grow them in a sunny room with a night temperature of about 65 degrees. The poinsettia blooms only during short days. To initiate blooms exclude artificial light, either by covering with a lightproof box each evening or placing in an unlighted room or closet for a minimum of 12 hours of darkness. Plants require full light in the daytime, so be sure to return them to a sunny window. Start the short day treatment in about midSeptember to have blooms between December 1 and Christmas. For more information about 4-H clubs or anything gardening related, call the Extension Service at 394-6018 or come by 211 DeQueen Street.
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POLICE
December 2, 2015 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 November 22, 2015 No criminal reports filed. November 23, 2015 Report was taken of a neighbor inappropriately touching a local woman. Case has been sent to the prosecutor for review and possible charges. November 24, 2015 Ethan Paul Miner, 22, of Mena was cited for driving on a suspended driver’s license. A local woman reported that several prize-winning chickens had been killed in an outbuilding on her property. A man and a dog had been seen leaving the property. Case is pending further investigation. November 25, 2015 Report was taken of a local man physically abusing his girlfriend. Case has been sent to the prosecutor for a warrant of arrest for domestic battery. Report was taken of a local woman threatening to kill her father. Case is pending. November 26, 2015 Whitney Reynolds, 25, of Mena, turned herself in to officers because she was aware that she had outstanding warrants. A local woman reported that someone had driven over a fence on her
Weekly Publication property, knocking down an area of the fence. Case is pending further investigation. November 27, 2015 Report was made of an altercation between a local couple. No charges were filed. November 28, 2015 Report was made of several chickens in a pen having been neglected. Case was turned over to the animal control officer. A Mena woman reported that her estranged husband has been harassing her and coming to her place of business. Case is pending. Officers worked five accidents. Polk County Sheriff’s Department November 23, 2015 Traffic stop on Polk 170 near the Potter community led to the arrest of Bradley M. Verba, 18, of Mena, on Charges of Reckless Driving, Failure to Yield, Failure to Signal and No Driver’s License. Report from complainant on Polk 44 near the Old Dallas community of the destruction of a mailbox, valued at $50.00. Investigation continues. Report of a dog bite victim on Highway 8 East near the Board Camp community. The owner was advised to quarantine the animals for ten days. November 24, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 31 near Cove of the theft of a game camera, valued at $178.00. Investigation continues. Report from walk-in complainant of problems with child custody exchange. Arrested was Charles B. Arnold, 26, of Mena, on Warrants for two counts of Probation Violation and Bond Revocation. November 25, 2015 Arrested was Jeffery G. Meredith, 48, of Cove on a Warrant for two counts of Battery 3rd Degree. Also
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arrested was Lesia M. Meredith, 43, of Cove, on a Warrant for Battery 3rd Degree and Disorderly Conduct. November 26, 2015 Report of an accident on Highway 375 East near the Old Dallas community led to the arrest of George H. Kilsby, 23, of Mena, on a Charge of DWI. Arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department was Isiaiah Threadgill, 51, of Dardanelle, on Charges of DWI, Driving Left of Center, Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License and Refusal to Submit. Also arrested was Derant D. Whisonant, 40, of Dardanelle, on Charges of Public Intoxication and Obstructing Governmental Operations. November 27, 2015 Report of a disturbance on Polk 41
South in the Shady Grove community led to the arrest of Norma D. Baker, 51, of Mena, on Charges of Disorderly Conduct, Possession of Meth or Cocaine with Purpose to Deliver and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms. November 28, 2015 Report of a disturbance off of Highway 246 East led to a Citation for Assault 3rd Degree being issued to Ivan R. Bates, 46, of Mena. November 29, 2015 No reports were filed. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 14 Incarcerated Inmates; 5 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 3 are currently out of jail on a monitoring system.
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December 2, 2015
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I buy gold jewelry, scrap, dental and sterling silver. Also buying pre-1965 U. S. Silver coins, one ounce rounds and bars. Top prices paid. Check with the rest but sell to the best. Dan’s Cash –N-Gun. 100 Hwy 71 S at First Street, Mena. 479-394TFN 5515. Clean & Comfortable housing since 1969, J. Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479394-1252. TFN
FOR RENT: 3 bedroom, 1 bath, CH/ A, corner lot with privacy fence. 210 Turner Drive, Mena. Leave Message 501.701.0682. 12/16 Two Women & a Mop – housecleaning done the way it should be. Will also detail new construction. Call 479-2341909. 12/16 J & N Dozer - Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357.
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For Sale by sealed bids: 2003 EZGO Electric Golf Cart. Windshield, hard top canopy, vinyl cab, headlights, charger, good condition, needs new batteries. Mail sealed bids to Mena Airport, 520 Mena ST, Mena, AR. 71953. Can be seen at the Mena Airport, call 479-394-4077 for appointment. Bids will be opened at the December 14th Airport Commission Meet12/09 ing. Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair, decks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068. 12/30
First Step, Inc. Medicaid Waiver Department has part time positions open in the Mena & Wickes area working as caregiver for people with developmental disabilities. Requirements: Must be 18 yrs. or older: have a high school diploma or GED: a clean driving record: reliable transportation. For more information call Tricia at 501-620-5432 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. EOE
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12/02
Squeaky Clean Mobile Dog Wash, dry, nails, ears, All Breeds, Deanna Boyd 479-234-1866. I will come to you! Look 12/09 on Facebook I have just received word that my grandson Dustin Willis and wife Molly has given birth to my great granddaughter born on 11/11/15. I am so proud of you all and love you so much. On this Thanksgiving I give God and my family thanks. God bless you. Grandma Wagner, Alma. 12/02 FOR SALE: 1941-42 vintage Chambers gas stove, full working condition $500 OBO. Sears Riding mower $600, OBO. Acrosonic Spinet Piano & Bench $500. Side-by-side ice water indoor Refrigerator, $500. 57 volume books of classics, $50 OBO. Gas mower $50. Call 479216-5850 Moving Sale coming up 11th & 12/09 12th. ATTENTION Churches and Groups with Card Ministries: Stock up on Discounted Cards at Sonlighter’s Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West, Tuesday and Thursday, Noon-3 p.m. (Proceeds benefit Mena Senior Center.) 12/02
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 2 , 2015