December 30, 2015
MRHS Announces Addition of New Orthopedic Surgeon BY LEANN DILBECK Mena Regional Health System is pleased to welcome Dr. Tariq Niazi to the medical staff. Dr. Niazi is currently accepting patients and will be located at the Mena Surgical Center located at 400L Crestwood Circle, adjacent to the hospital.
County Sustains Hard Hit from ‘Goliath’ Governor Declares County ‘Disaster Area’
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
Quorum Court Approves $4.4 Million Budget for 2016
BY MELANIE BUCK County budgets requests were approved at the Polk County Quorum Court meeting in November, where Justices of the Peace adopted a request for a $4.4 million budget for 2016 and approved resolutions to apply for grants. The 2-year budget request comparison shows that 2016 requests were more than $95,000 above 2015 requests. Many departments in the general budget stuck close to their 2015 budget CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
Sludge Removal System Project at Water Treatment Facility Slated to Begin BY MELANIE BUCK A bid was awarded to Mullen Construction, LLC at Monday night’s monthly Mena Water Utilities Commission meeting for the construction of a pad at Mena’s Sewer Plant that will be used to implement their new sludge removal system. Mullen’s accepted bid of $58,461.60 will be used to complete the dirt work portion of CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
[PHOTOS COURTESY OF KAYLA WELLS] BY LEANN DILBECK AND MELANIE BUCK Polk County is among twelve other Arkansas counties to have been officially declared ‘disaster areas’ by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, following Sunday’s torrential rains and catastrophic flooding. Other counties included in the state declaration are: Benton, Calhoun, Carroll, Drew, Franklin, Logan, Madison, Ouachita, Perry, Searcy, and Washington. The amount of aid that will CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
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Page 2
NEWS
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Goliath
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE)
be available to the county is yet to be determined. Tornado sirens sounded at approximately 4 a.m. Sunday morning and public tornado shelters were opened as the edge of a storm responsible for spawning multiple tornadoes and killing several people in Texas moved into the local area, bringing with it extreme flooding conditions. Creeks and rivers breached their banks as cloud to ground lightening strikes caused one structure fire on Hwy. 8 West and temporarily disabled KQOR 105.3FM. As of press time, officials were still waiting on water levels to continue to recede to compile a full assessment of the damage and to know if the storm will qualify the county for a federal disaster declaration. Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison reported Sunday evening that he suspected that this storm may be as bad as or even exceed the May 30, 2013 storm, which caused over $767,000 in damages. “It looks very similar to the 2013 floods that we had. We’ve had this same situation four to five times over the last two years. It’s becoming all too familiar,” Ellison told The Pulse. As much as 12.75 inches of rain were reported in parts of the county over the weekend as the mighty strength of Goliath, as the storm has been appropriately named, tore through. KENA’s weather watcher at Alder Springs reported 12.75 inches of rain, remaining the highest total in the county. Other totals from KENA weather watchers were: Ink-9.75”; Mena Airport-8.36”; Yocana8.25”; Cove-7.90”; Board Camp-7.00”; Pulse Multi-Media-6.80”; and Hatfield-6.00”. As Goliath continues to make his way across the country, much of his path is still reeling from the destruction. Polk County officials and law enforcement were out in full force beginning early Sunday morning to assess damages. However, as judge brandon ellison
“I
t looks very similar to the 2013 floods that we had. We’ve had this same situation four to five times over the last two years. It’s becoming all too familiar. --
continued ON PAGE 8
KID$ KA$H Club Winners
All major highways into Mena were flooded at one point on Sunday but by 8 p.m. that same evening, Sheriff Mike Godfrey reported they were all open. Above is Hwy 375E next to Street & Performance.
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Page 3
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Lena White presented a $100 donation on behalf of The Mena Emblem Club to the Harvest of Hope for Polk County Backpack Program. She is joined by Lioness Lions Club Members Sarah Curry and Patty Young, who gladly accepted the donation to feed children in Polk County.
4H Club Makes a Boy’s Dream Come True BY MELANIE BUCK Christmas dreams came true for one young man in the county as the Cossatot Achievers 4H Club insured he got what was on his list. Ten-year old Michael Grey just wanted a car, an old car, that he could tinker on with his dad and get ready for his sixteenth birthday when he’ll be able to legally drive it down the road. Cossatot Achievers 4H Leader Shanea Baker explains, “He’s autistic and has other health issues and he set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for a car so our 4H club wanted to help.” Grey’s adopted mother, Kim Moore posted his story on the GoFundMe page. “My son suffers from a number of disabilities; including traumatic frontal brain injury, Reactive attachment disorder(RAD), PTSD post traumatic stress disorder, severe anxiety and depression disorders, Behavior disorders NOS, social disabilities, and mild high functioning Autism. He has to stay busy and he is infatuated with “antique” vehicles. His version of an “antique” is anything old, rusty, and in bad shape. All he talks about is vehicles. I think a hobby like this would help keep him on the right track. I need help to make his dream come true as he helped me with my dream many years ago.” As requested, Cossatot Achievers 4H, along with a bit of help from others, delivered an old rusty car to Michael on December 23rd. “We were so excited to help make Michael’s dream come true,” said Baker. To Michael she said, “You’ve got lots of hard work ahead of you but we know you will enjoy every minute of it.” “I am a proud leader to see the kids all working very hard to give back to our communities with their helping hands. A tremendous thank you goes to Hortons towing for picking up and delivering the car. Also to Doug Dinkins who set up the wrecker service for us and Reggie Saddler who donated the car and helped us make this dream come true for a little boy’s Christmas. Polk County Deputy Sheriff Scott Sawyer was also on hand and escorted the crew. Baker said, “Michael was shocked I first went to the door. He said, ‘It’s for me? I don’t know what I’m going to do first. This is awesome.’” Baker continued, “When they got it
NEWS
Emblem Club Donates to Harvest of Hope
CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
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Page 4
NEWS
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Officers Elected to Airport Commission
Happy New Year Come Join the Fun
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BY MELANIE BUCK New board officers were elected when Mena Intermountain Airport Commission met Monday afternoon for their regular monthly meeting. Phillip Wilson was elected to serve as Chair for the board. Duane Corcoran will serve as Vice-Chair and newly appointed commissioner, Andy Anderson, will serve as Secretary. In addition to the executive board, other members of the commission are Nancy Wright, Phillip Hensley, Jeff Montgomery, and Roger Crider. Will Robbins serves as the Airport Manager. Commissioners also heard a report from Morrison Shipley engineer, Brian Maurer, who said the ball is still in the FAA’s court when it comes to the 40-year Master Plan. The Plan was submitted to the FAA in October and the FAA has since asked for an alternate plan on one of the proposed runway projects. Line of sight is an issue on the current plan and the FAA has implemented new rules for runway vision zones, causing engineers to come up with new plans. Commissioners also approved the high bid for a golf course they advertised for sale. The winning bid was by Mountain Airframe for $888. The next Airport Commission meeting is set for Monday, January 11th, at 3 p.m. in the RMCC Board Room.
Christmas at the Elks Provides for Hundreds BY MELANIE BUCK Close to 400 children received their Christmas delight early this year as the Mena Elks Lodge #781 took on the role as distributor for the local Toys for Tots program. The Toys for Tots program has received donations from individuals and businesses over the last few weeks to fill the gift bags for the County’s less fortunate. In addition to the Toys for Tots gifts, the Elks purchased $8,000 worth of food from James’ Superfoods to fill 180 food baskets for local families. Local author Richard Pena was also on site to give away autographed copies of his new book as children met up with Santa to tell him of their Christmas wishes. The annual Elks’ Christmas program has more than doubled in size over the last few years. In 2011, the Elks gave away gifts to 160 children. The Mena Elks also delivered 82 food baskets to the elderly during Thanksgiving. Local Elks members said they ‘love doing this each year’ and that giving to the children ‘is the true reason for the season.’
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Page 5
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Mena Public Schools extends a
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
PCDC Receives Benches from Bear State and Christmas Goodies from Local Interact Club
PCDC recently received a donation from Bear State Bank Employees and L & M Plumbing to purchase outdoor benches for the Adult Education and Wellness Center’s Garden. The benches provide a much-needed place to sit while participating in outdoor activities. Also, in the spirit of Christmas giving, the local Interact Club, including Rachel Stacks, Cece Metcalf, Dustin Dilbeck, Clint Buck, Lilly Garrett, and Club Advisor Charles Pitman, along with Rachel Buck, Lexi Dilbeck, and Pulse Multi-Media’s David and LeAnn Dilbeck and Melanie Buck, took goodie bags, Christmas cards, and ‘jingle bell bracelets’ to the students. The group sang Jingle Bells as the students shook their bracelets. Fun was had by all.
NEWS
“It’s more than an education. It’s an experience. Come experience it with us!”
to all!
Central Office
Louise Durham Elementary Holly Harshman Elementary
Mena Middle School
Mena High School
Cossatot River State Park Interpreter Shelley Flannery spoke to a group of outdoor enthusiasts at Cove Branch Library, Wednesday, December 16. Winter Weather Survival Skills was the first in the series of lectures on this topic. The interactive presentation included a video and several informative handouts. Residents of Polk County will not want to miss part 2, which is scheduled for Wednesday, January 13, 2016, at 3:30 at the Cove Branch Library.
Page 6
NEWS
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
County Budget
CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE
numbers, which were already ‘lean’ according the Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison. However, there were increases in some departments and decreases in others. The largest request increase came from the ‘elections’ account. Due to 2016 being a general election year, that budget moved from just over $25,000 in 2015 to $128,000 in 2016; a difference of almost $103,000. The largest decrease came from the Office of Emergency Management, who in 2015 requested $118,000, asked for $104,000 in 2016; a difference of $14,000. Other budget requests include $367,000 for the county road budget; $822,000 for the Sheriff’s department; and $396,772 for the jail account. District Court operations requested more than $228,000 and the school resource officer account requested $142,798. The County Judge’s account requested $95,047; the County Clerk account requested $200,730; $196,445 was asked for by the Circuit Clerk account, while the Treasurer and Collector requested $107,546 and $202,862, respectively. The Quorum Court itself requested $97,720 and $168,051 was requested by the Prosecuting Attorney’s office, while juvenile office requested almost $140,000. The Rural Volunteer Fire Department budget asked for a slight increase, equaling an $86,350 budget while the Veterans Service Office requested $82,815 and the Extension Office requested $60,297. JP’s authorized County Judge Brandon Ellison to apply for grants on behalf of two county volunteer fire departments. If awarded, the grants will provide funding for Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department and Ink Volunteer Fire Department for the purchase of new personal protection equipment, namely firefighter coats and pants. Ellison will apply to receive $35,042 for Shady Grove and $39,409.08 for Ink. Shady Grove also seeks to purchase handheld radio equipment and Ink also seeks to purchase equipment to complete the build of their tanker truck. Both grants are being applied for through the Arkansas Rural Development Commission. During December’s meeting of the Polk County Quorum Court, percentages were designated for funding District Court Operations for the City of Mena, County of Polk, and Town of Grannis for 2016. Also at the meeting, an ordinance was passed to renew the contract between the County and Southern Disposal, Inc., for the operation of the Polk County Landfill. The next meeting of the Polk County Quorum Court will be Tuesday, January 26th, at 6 p.m. in the Polk County Office Complex on Pine Street.
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Thomas Joins Chamber Leadership
State Farm Agent Matt Thomas was elected by the Chamber membership to serve a 3-year term on the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce. Also, re-elected for second terms were Jimma Holder, Cindy Long and Lisa Masters. Tammy Young will take the reins as the 2016 Chamber President. Stay informed on upcoming Chamber events at meetings at MenaPolkChamber.com
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Page 7
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Surgeon
“At MRHS, we are very excited about Dr. Niazi joining our team. He is coming to us from a facility very similar to Mena Regional and is very in tune to what it takes to care for a community comparable to ours. At MRHS, we are committed to providing individualized patient-centered care to all who enter our facility. I feel confident that Dr. Niazi will help us continue to achieve this goal, MRHS Administrator Jay Quebedeaux told The Pulse. Appointments and referrals may be made by calling the Mena Surgical Clinic at 479-243-2103.
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
of the project that is expected to begin the first week of January 2016. Mena Water Utilities Manager Charles Pitman said, “We’ve spent five years on this project so it’s really exciting to get to this point. It was made possible by the sewer rate increase that just went into effect in December. We hope to be able to start the sludge removal process in April with the funds from the increase.” Pitman explained that once the pad is built, the next step will be to advertise for bids on geotubes that will be used to store the sludge that is pumped from the sewage ponds. “It will take about three weeks for 10,000 tons of sludge to be removed from the pond,” said Pitman. Once the sludge is removed from the pond and placed into the geotubes, the drying process begins. This occurs as the water drains from the geotubes over time, leaving a mixture that resembles potting soil. Once dry, the tubes are cut open and the contents are transported to pastures as fertilizer. “The alternative is to put it in a tanker and dump it in pastures, wet. This method allows them to be more efficient with time and it’s easier to spread than the tanker trucks are,” Pitman said. Pitman explained in August’s Mena City Council meeting that the plant is 43 years old and it takes extra chemicals to treat the sewage properly, costing the City more money. The geotube system will not only be economically sound for the city, it will also keep added traffic off of the road to the sewer plant. Pitman said that the last time sludge was removed from the sewer pond, it took 3,300 18-wheeler loads, costing $1.3 million dollars plus an extra $200,000 that was paid to the County for the repair of the road that those 18-wheelers traveled. With the new system, the sewage is pumped into geotubes and dried before being hauled away and used for fertilizer, a process that would only require a dump truck. Pitman explained that the sewer pond could now be cleaned once or twice a year instead of once every 10-20 years. Also discussed during Monday night’s meeting by the Commission was the One-Month and Twelve-Month water loss. Although the Twelve-Month water loss is still high due to levels earlier in the year, the One-Month loss has decreased dramatically and was at 22 this month, compared to being in the 30’s in earlier months. The bi-annual flushing of Mena’s water lines is in full force this week, even amidst flooding conditions. Pitman said the process was going well. The north side of Highway 71 was set to be flushed on Monday and Tuesday, while the south side of the Highway, including the Nunley and Board Camp areas, is set to be performed on Wednesday and Thursday. Pitman reported that, as of Monday, Irons Fork Lake is up by approximately 23 feet. “It’s not up to the emergency spillway, and doesn’t seem to be rising any more,” Pitman said. He also said that the water is a little stirred up and they are using slightly more treatment in the water to compensate, but not an excessive difference.
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(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
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Page 8
Goliath
Weekly Publication
(CONT. FROM PAGE 2)
daylight came, so did travelers and emergency personnel found themselves at several points of rescue as flood waters swept drivers from roadways, amidst warnings to stay home. “The majority of the calls we responded to were avoidable situations,” Sheriff Mike Godfrey told residents Sunday night as he urged them to stay home unless it was an emergency. “You may know the road but when there is water covering it, you really don’t know if that road or bridge is still there or not,” said Godfrey. One such rescue occurred around 10 a.m. on Sunday when a man was swept into a creek in his pickup truck on Polk Road 95. Emergency personnel tried every avenue to reach the man before calling in assistance from the National Guard. The Guard’s trucks are lifted high enough to travel through the rising waters so they were able to rescue the man who said the water was up to the windows on his vehicle. The flood also heavily damaged one of the county’s historic bridges [FRONT PAGE PHOTOS]. Located on Polk Road 38, just past the Boy Scout Camp, the historic iron bridge over the Mountain Fork River was constructed in 1905 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in April 1990. The end platform on the west end of the bridge spent much of the flood standing straight up in the water as it had broken loose from the rest of the bridge while remaining attached to the roadway. Local resident Kayla Wells lives just two miles from the bridge and told The Pulse, “That is the highest I have ever seen it, my husband says the highest it’s been in about 12 or 13 years. We live about 2 miles from the bridge and drove down about every hour to see how much it had risen. And it just kept coming. Finally around 9pm it had began to drop but we couldn’t tell the extent of damage till morning.” Along with many other bridges in the county, it will be closed and impassable for an undetermined amount of time. After already spending hours assessing damages from the 4 a.m. tornado threat and the significant rainfall received, and rescuing citizens, crews found themselves watching another tornado producing system move over the east side of the county before noon. Polk County Emergency Management Coordinator James Reeves watched as the system came into the county from DeQueen and moved north, running through the county to Mena, going over the bowling alley and moving towards Old Dallas. Reeves also expressed Godfrey’s sentiments saying, “Our biggest problem has been people on the roads that don’t really need to be. We’ve had several rescues as we have water standing in usual places but also in places that don’t normally retain water,” Reeves said. He added, “It isn’t worth risking you life, the life of your loved ones, or our rescuers’ lives by driving on roads that can’t be seen due to water covering them.” In addition to tornado and flood warnings, lightening also became an issue. Just before 1 p.m., a house was reported to have been hit by lightening although no damage was reported. At approximately 2:30 p.m., a pool house on Hwy. 8 West was hit by lightening and a fire was started. The Shady Grove Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the flames. At one time, as many as 600 county residents were without power but by 8 p.m. Sunday evening, Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative Manager Leon Philpot reported that all power had been restored. At the peek of the storm, all major highways leading into CONclusion ON PAGE 9
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Mena Senior Center Hosts Annual Christmas Dinner
The Mena Senior Center hosted Christmas Dinner to a full house on Wednesday, December 16th, 2015. Sara Holliday, director of the center, said they serve more than 200 seniors at the annual dinner each year. Volunteers such as Scott Sawyer, along with others, served the residents the traditional Christmas dinner, while patrons enjoyed the entertainment of Gator and Friends on the stage.
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MPI 3362 1/15
NEWS
December 30, 2015
Page 9
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Goliath
Mena had sections that were under water, leaving many motorists stranded, but by 8 p.m. Sunday evening, Sheriff Godfrey reported that all highways were open. Cove Mayor Joan Headley said they “were really lucky” in her area. “We just had some small branches and such. Our street crews checked the area on Monday and we are fine here,” said Headley. She also reported that 10 inches of rain fell at her residence in Cove. Brett Hobbs, Ark. Game and Fish Commission Supervisor of District 8, said that as of Monday, Lake Wilhelmina had crested and wasn’t expected to rise anymore. Although an actual foot level amount was unable to be obtained, Hobbs said their winter weather activity protocol protected their area the most. “We opened the top gate and radial arm gates like we do each year because heavier rain is normal for winter. It really helped us.” Hobbs explained the water almost reached the feed bins used to supply the catfish cages but no damage was sustained there. He also said that the water was close to breaching the earthen spillway, but the area maintained its strength. According to Hobbs, the last time the water was close to breaching the earthen spillway was the 1970’s. “We may have sustained some damage on the road near the campsites. We will be assessing the damage and will take any appropriate actions to repair the area,” said Hobbs. Rivers remain swelled as they have all breached their banks and are roaring through pastures and roads throughout the county. The Mountain Fork River on the west side of the county is at 35 feet, more than 25 feet above normal. The Cossatot River near Vandervoort is near 14 feet, and the Ouachita River near Mt. Ida is near 28 feet. Officials have been unable to give a detailed listing of road closures because the damage is so widespread. Officials urge everyone to exercise extreme caution and to not drive into water covered roadways. The road or bridge may no longer be there. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN. Officials will continue to assess damages to release a full report as soon as possible and will be reported on KENA 104.1FM news and MyPulseNews.com. Additional flood photos and videos are available on the Polk County Pulse Facebook page.
Annie Mae Anderson Hughes, age 72, of Mena passed away on Christmas morning, December 25, 2015 in Mena, Arkansas. Annie was born August 1, 1943 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to the late B.J. Anderson and the late Beryl Foley Anderson. On May 20, 1973 she married Layman H. Hughes, who survives her. She loved poetry and writing poems. Her greatest love was her family, especially her husband and two sons, her eleven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Annie was a
unloaded, he said, ‘can we pop the hood and make sure it has a motor?’ Baker also said comments like, “This is going to be so fun dad, we get to work on this together,” came from Michael through his larger than life smile. The car had an old cell phone originally installed in it and when he got in and saw the phone, “he was super excited.” Baker added, “Just to know that one man’s junk was a treasure to him and his favorite gift was awesome. It put Christmas into perspective for our 4H kids.” Cossatot Achievers 4H also filled bags with hand warmers, dried fruit, applesauce, toothbrush, toothpaste, chapstick, socks, and more that were donated to the Backpack program. “We sent home 60 bags with children in Wickes. We also went caroling on December 22nd and delivered hot warm cooked meals to several people in the community and took desserts to the elderly, shut-ins, and disabled. I’m very proud of my 4H kids,” Baker smiled.
Cove’s 22nd Christmas Xtravaganza A Great Success
“Cove’s 22nd annual Christmas Xtravaganza parade and reception with Santa Claus was a great success. Even with the uncertain weather, there was a large crowd in attendance,” reported Cove Mayor Joan Headley. The parade winners were presented trophies and ribbons from J.R. Graphics. The “Overall” trophy went to Scott Sawyer’s float “Candyland”. First place was won by Cove First Baptist Church, second place went to the Red Neck Fire Truck, and third place was jointly won by Little Miss Vandervoort and Miss Melanoma Awareness Prevention Program Queen. “We would like to express our gratitude to Cub Scout Pack 78 who acted as our Color Guard, Rich Mountain Community College, and the All Around 4H group for their participation in our parade. And of course, we cannot leave out the fire departments - Cove Rural, Vandervoort, and the Town of Cove,” said Headley. At the reception, Santa talked with about 100 children who had waited to see him. The beautiful cakes donated by Walmart brought “oohs” and “aahs” from everyone, while the cookies donated by Subway and James Super Save disappeared faster than you could say “Merry Christmas.” “The delectable desserts prepared by our very talented local bakers were enjoyed by one and all,” smiled Headley. She added, “We would like to extend our thanks to the Polk County Sheriff’s office who provided traffic control, to our very capable servers, the parade judges, the decorating committee from the Cove branch of the Polk County Library, and everyone else who helped make this event so spectacular.”
Oaks Announces Sweater Contest Winners
The Oaks held a Christmas sweater contest for the holidays and have announced their winners. Ruth Sherman was awarded ‘Most Creative’; Alla Mae Cogburn won ‘Most Tacky’; and Margaret Brett won ‘Most Pretty’.
loving and kind wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to all who knew her. She will be missed dearly by all. She is survived by husband, Layman Hughes of Mena, Arkansas; sons, Layman Joseph (Joey) Hughes, Gary Michael Hughes; sisters, Edna Mullins and husband Darren of Mena, Pamela O’Bar of Norman, Maxine DeHart of Mena; brothers-in-law, Junior Carter, Kenneth Hughes, and Ronald Hughes. Mrs. Hughes was preceded in death by, her parents, B.J. and Beryl Anderson, sisters, Bennie Carter, Bessie Chaney, Rozilla Gist, and Louise Cogburn. Funeral services will be Wednesday,
December 30, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. in the Beasley Wood Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Grant Geiger officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation will be general. Pallbearers are Tony Peek, Keith Ray, Patrick Freeman, Tim Freeman, Jason Wagner, and Tommy Freeman.
Greggory Wayne Fryer Greggory Wayne Fryar, age 56, of Mena,
Arkansas, passed away Sunday, December 20, 2015. Greggory was born a native to Mena, to the late L. V. Fryar and the late Rosa Faye Titsworth Fryar on July 22, 1959. He worked in construction and was well liked by his fellow employees and peers, always doing a job well done. Greg loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman, and was a big fan of the Ra-
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OBITUARIES
Annie Mae AndersonHughes
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NEWS
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4H Club
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OBITUARIES
December 30, 2015 CONT. FROM PAGE 9
zorbacks. He was a great father, and family man, and will be missed by them most of all. He is survived by son, Evan Wayne Fryar; brothers, Stephen Lamar Fryar and wife Donna Rae, John Liles and Joe Liles; niece, Tia Rose Fryar; nephew, Ryan Stephen Fryar; StepMother, Ann Garrett. He was preceded in death by his parents, L.V. and Rosa Fryar. Mr. Fryar was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A memorial service was held Saturday, December 26, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel. A memorial account has been set up at the Union Bank of Mena in his name.
Felix Jefferson Davis Mr. Felix Jefferson Davis, Jr., age 69, of Hatfield passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2015 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Felix (Bud) was born in Mena, Arkansas on February 20, 1946 to the late Felix J. Davis, Sr. and the late Birdie Stipe Davis. He was lovingly married to Bobbie Roberts Davis for 48 years and was an xray tech in the Oil Industry by profession. He was a hard worker and loved being around family and friends. Felix enjoyed being an avid hunter and was a member of the Slate Creek Hunting Club He also liked to garden when he could. He was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. Mr. Davis is survived by, wife, Bobbie Davis of Hatfield; sons, Earl Davis and wife Cindy of Genoa, Arkansas, Reuben Davis and wife Julie of McKinney, Texas; daughter, Wendy Lynch and husband John of Bryant, Arkansas; grandchildren, Taylor and Brandon Davis, Ryan Lynch, Jack and Dylan Davis; sisters, Wanda Tilley, Angela Myers, Pat Westbrook; brother, Donny Davis. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felix (Jeff) and Birdie Davis, and a brother, Danny Davis. Graveside service was Saturday, December 19, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. in the
Weekly Publication Molly Gann Cemetery in Potter, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood.
Daniel Thomas Anderson Mr. Daniel Thomas Anderson, age 56, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, December 18, 2015. He was born in New Ulm, Minnesota to the late Clyde Anderson and the late Carol Ann Clyne Anderson. He was happily married to Terri Ann Thomas and they spent their fun times together fishing and four wheeling with their children. He was a self employed painter and decorator and also produced audio and video for his ministries. He just enjoyed being outdoors and loved spending time with his family and serving his Lord and Savior! He is survived by, wife, Terri Anderson; son, Noah Anderson; daughters, Kelly Gandy and husband Peter, and Anna Anderson; brother, Terry Anderson and wife Suzie; sisters, Lori Hofmeister and husband Mark, Jane Sturn and husband Lee of New Ulm, and Peggy Anderson of Owatonna. He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Anderson was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. No services have been scheduled at this time.
Mary Jane Ferguson Baker Mary Jane Ferguson Baker, age 83, of Mena, passed away Friday, December 18, 2015. She was born August 27, 1932 in Trenton, Texas to the late E. C. Ferguson and the late Alberta Starnes Ferguson. Mrs. Baker was a bookkeeper by profession but some of her greatest loves were motorcycle riding, enjoying nature and looking at the river. She loved gardening, canning and preserving. She and her late husband, Bob, loved traveling to the local Bluegrass Festivals. Mary also enjoyed taking history classes at Rich Mountain Community College. She loved watching football, particularly the Dallas Cowboys. She was a loving wife, mother, grand-
mother, great-grandmother and friend. She will be dearly missed. Mrs. Baker is survived by, daughter, Karolyn Kay Robinson and husband Timothy of Greenville; son, Steven Allen McCord and wife Cindy of Colleyville; Grandchildren, Scott McCord and wife Christa of Temple, Kelly Gordon and husband Eric of Euless; Great-Grandchild, Jason McCord of Temple, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, E. C. and Alberta Ferguson, her siblings, Johnie J. Ferguson, Belvery Gene Ferguson and Martha Nell Ferguson, and her husband of 18 years, Bob Baker. Funeral services were Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Ron Tilley officiating. Interment followed in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation was general. Pallbearers were Scott McCord, Eric Gordon, David Gordon, Danny Miller, Tony Main, and Freddie Hamm. Honorary pallbearers were Tex Baker and Jesse Miller. The family of Mrs. Baker would like to say a special thank you to Aspen Home Health Care and Hospice.
Jennifer Bateman Boyd Jennifer Bateman Boyd, age 72, of Mena passed away Saturday, December 26, 2015 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Jennifer was born in El Dorado, Arkansas on April 2, 1943 to the late Henry Bateman and the late Mavis Moore Bateman. She was lovingly married to Harley Boyd for 51 years. She was a hardworking country girl who enjoyed listening to Elvis. Jennifer loved to travel visiting 49 of the 50 states, loving Alaska most. She loved to cook for her family and friends and enjoyed to hear Sharee sing. Being a country girl she loved horses, barrel racing, rabbits, dogs and hummingbirds. Jennifer was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend to all who knew her. She will be missed by all. She is survived by husband, Harley Boyd of Mena, Arkansas; son, Dewayne Boyd and wife Tonja of Wichita, Kansas; grandchildren, Wyatt and Jaccey Boyd, and Ty Jones; son, Charley Boyd and
wife Sharee of Mena, Arkansas; grandchildren, Meagan and Brennan Boyd; daughter, Deanna Boyd; uncle, Raymond Kelly and wife Pat; brother, Kenneth Bateman; and two cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Mavis Bateman. Graveside service will be Thursday, December 31, 2015 at 2:00 p.m., Owens Chapel Cemetery in Acorn, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation will be Wednesday, December 30, 2015 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Online obituary available at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Jimmylee Wayne Fitch Jimmylee Wayne Fitch, age 76, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, December 25, 2015 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan to the late Wayne Arthur Fitch and Lucille Koetje Fitch Edgerton. He was retired from General Motors and after moving to Mena was in Residence Management. He enjoyed being outdoors and loved to hunt and fish. Jimmy also loved to cook and had a generous heart. He enjoyed shopping for and preparing food to share with others. Whatever he had he shared, along with lending a helping hand when needed. He is survived by sons, Todd Tabor of Vicksburg, Michigan, Greg Vasquez of California, Jason Fitch of Portage, Michigan; brother, Larry Fitch and Partner Yvetta Van Natta of Mena Arkansas; sister, Cheryl Moehring and husband Skip of Mena Arkansas; several grandsons, granddaughters, uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, one brother, Ronald Fitch, and son, Jeff Vasquez. Mr. Fitch was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. No services have been scheduled at this time. Online obituary available at http://www. beasleywoodfuneralhome.com/
December 30, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 11
Last year, we compiled a list of both Reader’s Choice and Editor’s Choice Top 10 stories. The Reader’s Choice was determined by the viewership numbers available to us through our online publication MyPulseNews.com. However, when reviewing those selections this year, all of the most viewed online stories included arrests, fatalities or convictions. We hear consistently that readers want more “good and positive news stories” and yet, thanks to technology, we can see that the public’s human nature and interest inevitably navigates to the more “negative” stories. Rather than re-circulate those painful stories, we selected what we considered to be the top stories of our area that show either progress, significant change, or provide historical reference of a news event within our local community. With great respect for the community in which we serve, we present to you the top news stories of 2015.
The Queen has Risen Again! Published on June 11, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK The much anticipated reopening of the majestic Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge on the aweinspiring 2,681-foot Rich Mountain, Arkansas’ second highest peak, has officially arrived. State Parks Director Greg Butts announced the new opening date of July 1, 2015 to local media in early June who were allowed to get some of the first tours and photos. No attention to detail was spared and is guaranteed to make a stay at the Queen much more than lodging, it will be a genuine memorable experience. The Queen’s extensive facelift and renovation cost an estimated $9.6 million. “The improvements to this lodge that was opened by the state of Arkansas in 1975 should receive rave reviews when it reopens,” said Butts. He noted the lodge features all new larger windows that frame the breathtaking views from Rich Mountain of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. Butts emphasized, “Enjoying the panoramic scenery from the mountain is an important part of the Queen Wilhelmina State Park experience. Our visitors are going to enjoy the more wide open views from all the lodge’s public rooms, including the restaurant and all the guest rooms.” Executive Director of Arkansas Parks and Tourism, Richard Davies is pleased with the final product of the enormous project. In a statement to Pulse Multi-Media he said, “This place is transformed. It is so much different than the old one because you can see out. It is very airy, it is very open, from the meeting rooms to the guest rooms and the lobby. It takes advantage of where you are. I think the architect, the staff, and the contractor have done a great job. The people will like Queen Wilhelmina Lodge.” The exterior of the lodge features shingles and stonework. The lodge was expanded from 25,881 square feet to 37,029 square feet to include the addition of a new hearth room with wood-burning fireplace, two additional guest rooms increasing the total to 40, and more space within all the rooms. Two guest rooms on each floor at the west end include gas fireplaces and spa tubs. Three are barrier-free to meet the needs of visitors with disabilities. They include Queen, King, King with spa tub and gas fireplace, and King Suite choices. The new larger rooms will be able to accommodate a multitude of guests and groups and many have already begun to reserve their rooms. As of Thursday, the Queen has already received registrations for 45 groups between July and December of this year. For perspective, it takes a reservation of 10 or more rooms to qualify as a group, equaling a minimum of 450 rooms that have already been reserved for the remainder of 2015. The upstairs meeting facility increased in size and includes a balcony overlooking the gorgeous south view from the mountain. Public restrooms are located nearby. An elevator was added to the lodge, as well as more stairwells. Families can continue traditions and even more memories can be made while enjoying the new wraparound porch on the building’s south side, which will provide visitors with a comfortable outdoor space to enjoy a cool breeze in a southern style rocking chair. Additionally, a new porch was added at the west end and a new fire protection system covers the entire building. Other improvements include a new energy efficient heating and air-conditioning system, energy saving lighting throughout, solar hot water, and other such features. A new laundry will serve the housekeeping staff. The design consultant was The Borné Firm Architects P.A. of Little Rock, Robin Y. Borné AIA president. The architect’s consultants were Pettit and Pettit Consulting Engineers, Inc. of Little Rock (MEP), Engineering Consultants, Inc. of Little Rock (Structural), Hanson and McLaughlin Engineering, LLC of Little Rock (Civil), Development Consultants, Inc. of Little Rock (Landscape Architecture), Morris & Associates of Scott (Environmental), Grubbs, Hoyskn, Barton & Wyatt of Little Rock (Geotechnical), and Stellar Sun of Little Rock (Solar Hot Water
Editor’s Choice
cont. on page 12
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 30, 2015
December 30, 2015
The Queen
Editor’s Choice
40th Annual Rod Run to Honor Founder Mark Campbell Published on July 29, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Published on May 22, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK The County has been abuzz about the Silver Screen Theater having new owners and coming to life again. The Pulse was able to catch up with Greg Davis to confirm the buy and get all the details. Deanna Ayres is partnering up with Davis for the opening. Davis said he is hoping for a 90-day opening but that there is a lot of work to be done to have the place ready. Davis has big plans for the theatre, “It’s something the town needs. We think it will be fun,” said Davis. New seats are one of the first big changes to the theatre. Davis said the new leather chairs will have cup holders and he believes people will be pleased with them. Davis said, “We are working towards presenting larger screen, we are dealing with engineering issues.” “We are going digital and will also have a new sound system,” said Ayres. “In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to not go digital,” Davis said. The building is being virtually gutted to build a new concession area, new bathrooms, and to leave room for a possible arcade area in the future. They have also discussed turning the upstairs into balcony style VIP areas with larger chairs. The outside of the building will boast new signage and an awning to insure movie go-ers don’t have to contend with weather while buying their tickets. Davis also plans to smooth out the parking area and to beef up security so that nothing amiss is happening on their turf. “It will be very safe. We want to make it the best experience possible,” Davis said. Davis is also asking for public input seeking suggestions on any food, any concessions, movie titles, or anything else that would enhance the movie experience. If you have suggestions, look up their Facebook page, Silver Screen Theater, after mid-week next week. They are working as fast as possible to get their website set up, it will be posted on their sign as soon as it’s complete.
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System). TriMark Strategic of Coppell, Texas, was the consultant for the new kitchen. Jake Limberg of Arkansas State Parks, the park planner for Queen Wilhelmina State Park, developed the interior furnishings design. Architect Robin Borné said, “We’re glad we had the chance to provide professional services for this project and to serve the people of Arkansas, they are the real heroes here. They passed Amendment 75 and it’s unbelievably important.” The general contractors were, Wade Abernathy, Inc. of Mt. Ida, and Nabholz Construction Services of Conway. The project was funded by Amendment 75, Arkansas’s Conservation Fund ($4,792,365), FY 12-14 grant monies from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council ($3,331,927), and State Parks Funds ($200,000). Furnishings and new kitchen equipment totaled $1,297,000. Today’s lodge is the third hostelry to grace this same setting on 2,681-foot Rich Mountain. The first inn, opened in 1898 by the Kansas City, Pittsburg and Gulf Railroad (KCPG), was designed as a resort retreat for passengers on the line. The company spared no expense in constructing the luxurious hostelry of Victorian splendor. Since the KCPG was largely financed by Dutch interests, the resort was named in honor of the Netherlands’ young Queen Wilhelmina. Known as the “Castle in the Sky,” the inn closed in only three years. The second Queen Wilhelmina inn was built by Arkansas State Parks and operated by the state of Arkansas from 1963 until a fire destroyed it in the fall of 1973. Today’s Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge opened in 1975 to carry forward this lodging tradition on Rich Mountain. The just completed $9.6 million renovation of this facility is what will greet visitors and guests when the lodge reopens on July 1. To make reservations, visit Queen Wilhelmina.com or call 1-800-264-2477. Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge is one of the four hotel-like lodges in the Arkansas State Park system. The others are historic Mather Lodge at Petit Jean State Park near Morrilton, DeGray Lake Resort State Park Lodge near Arkadelphia, and The Lodge at Mount Magazine in Mount Magazine State Park near Paris. Queen Wilhelmina State Park is one of the 52 state parks administered by the State Parks Division of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. In addition to the lodge, the 460-acre park includes a campground with 41 campsites and a bathhouse; picnic areas; trails; and a seasonal miniature train and mini-golf course. Park interpretive programs highlight Rich Mountain’s fauna and unique flora. Jon Brown, Manager of Operations, Arkansas State Parks and Tourism, said, “The staff has worked tremendously hard to get this place open for the general public and they’ve done a great job. It’s an outstanding facility and I think everyone is going to enjoy it. It’s a showcase in the community and we are all impressed and proud to have it.” Arkansas State Parks Director Greg Butts summed up the majesty of the lodge by saying, “I think what you see is a first class facility. It’s all about the beautiful views, about the special times, and special places like Queen Wilhelmina. We are continuing the hotel business here, now spanning three different centuries and here we are today. We’re in the memory business and the forever business. Folks come to state parks in the pursuit of happiness. In the constitution it talks about the pursuit of happiness and that’s what state parks are. We’re all busy, going 100 miles per hour and parks are a place to come reconnect with history, the natural environment, and outdoor spaces. It’s about special places, special times, and special people.” The park is on Ark. 88 (Talimena National Scenic Byway) 13 miles west of Mena. [For an alternate route from Mena or during inclement weather, go six miles north on U.S 71, then travel nine miles west on U.S. 270, then go two miles south up Ark. 272.] Reservations may be made by calling 479-394-2863 or online at www.QueenWilhelmina.com.
The Movies are Coming Back to Mena! BY MELANIE BUCK The 40th Annual Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run Mark Campbell Memorial, sponsored by the Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission and Street & Performance, Inc., will be held Friday, August 28 through Sunday, August 30. This year will feature a special tribute to Rod Run’s creator, Mark Campbell who was also the owner and founder of Street and Performance in Mena. Mark lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in April and his family is hosting this year’s 40th annual event to honor his memory and legacy. An average of 200 hot rods and street rods will be on display at the Show & Shine starting Friday night at the Historic KCS Depot on Sherwood Avenue in downtown Mena from 6 pm – 8 pm. Saturday, rods will be on display atop Rich Mountain at Queen Wilhelmina State Park by day and will make their way down the Talimena National Scenic Byway to South Mena Street (next to Washburn’s) for the Downtown Street Dance and Concert (sponsored by Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission). This year’s line-up of music is sure to bring a great crowd, with Randal VonButte live at 7:00 pm followed by Polk 74 at 8:30 pm. The hot rods will return to the top of Rich Mountain on Sunday morning to conclude the weekend’s activities. This annual event is a longtime favorite for locals, as well as visitors from surrounding states; it is great fun for all ages. Come on out and have a good time.
U.S.F.S. Issues Final Decision on Wolf Pen Gap Published on January 5, 2015
MENA, Ark. – The final decision concerning off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails and mixed use roads at Wolf Pen Gap near Mena was released Monday, January 5, by the Ouachita National Forest. Mena-Oden District Ranger, Tim Oosterhous, selected Alternative “I” as outlined in the Wolf Pen Gap Environmental Assessment. “I am pleased this decision finds common ground to protect the forest while allowing continued use of nearly 40 of the 42 miles of trail during times of the year when it is most used by visitors,” said Oosterhous. “I greatly appreciate everyone’s participation in this process to come to a workable solution. Nobody got everything they wanted, but at the end of the day, we found a way to make it work and stay open for use.” Currently 41.7 miles of roads and trails are available for OHV use at Wolf Pen Gap, either year-round or seasonally. Key components of Alternative I define a trail system with 39.6 miles of routes, including mixed use routes and seasonal designations. Designated routes will be open seasonally from the second Friday of March each year, through Oct. 31. Two holiday periods will open the trail system to OHV use: from three days prior to Thanksgiving through two days after Thanksgiving, and from Dec. 25 through Jan. 2. Monitoring will be an important factor in protecting natural resources, particularly during rainy periods according to the Wet Weather Management Plan, an appendix to the Environmental Assessment. The monitoring will help determine if the amount of rainfall is enough to result in damage to the maintained trails, or in increased sedimentation in nearby tributaries. If so, a temporary closure of the trail, generally short-term, will occur.
FOR CONCLUSION SEARCH THE HEADLINE AT MYPULSENEWS.COM
Editor’s Choice
Gunfire Rang Through the Streets as Mena Woke Up to Military Training Exercise Published on March 2, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK A National Guard military training exercise was held Saturday at the old Mena Middle School building on Mena Street, complete with explosions and machine guns. The training was an exercise in urban-style warfare and included capturing a prime target suspect, caring for the injured, and counting the casualties. The morning started out with snow covered streets and lawns as the Company C 1st Battalion 153rd Infantry / 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Mena’s local National Guard unit, stormed up main street, some on foot, others in Humvees, with guns blazing, albeit they were filled with blanks. Citizens around town got a loud wakeup call when explosions and gunfire rang through the streets of Mena beginning around 9:30 a.m. As off-duty officers from Mena Police Department set up inside the building as insurgents trying to protect the target, the National Guard troops surrounded the two-story building and began their attack. Rushing through the doors, the soldiers began a tactical weaving in-andout of old classrooms that once rang out with the sound of school bells and cont. on page 14
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 30, 2015
Tom Cruise Rumored to Star in ‘Mena’ Published on January 21, 2015
Editor’s Choice
Military Training (CONT. FROM PG 13)
pre-teens’ laughter was suddenly filled with the sounds of piercing rounds of ammunition being fired in all directions. As orders were being yelled out by commanders the troops stationed themselves and waited for the next stage while taking care of the injured. Ducking in and out of rooms themselves, Mena Police Department Officers were smiling as they played a real-life game of cat and mouse. As the troops gained ground and eventually made it up the stairs, they were able to take the ‘insurgents’ out in a ‘kill or capture’ style and captured the live target. Never dropping the seriousness of their roles, the troops made their way out of the building in the same weaving fashion while soldiers armed with high-powered rifles laid atop Humvees watching the perimeter to assure their safe departure. Mena Police Chief Brandon Martin said he and his guys enjoyed the drill and had a lot of fun, “It was an honor for us to help them out in any way we can. Our guys enjoyed it and took a lot out of it. I’m sure our guys learned as much as they did. I really appreciate the opportunity to help the National Guard. Hopefully it’s the start of something we can help them out with more in the future. We really appreciate what they do for us as the military. We can’t thank them enough for their service.”
BY MELANIE BUCK Mena is much abuzz about the possibility of Hollywood coming to town. Published reports indicate that Tom Cruise is getting involved in the project, portraying pilot turned drug and gunrunner, Barry Seal. Doug Liman is set to direct the film about Seal, who reportedly based his operations in Mena and was an American pilot who flew planes for one of the largest-ever covert CIA missions that also spawned the birth of the Medellín Cartel (a Mexican based cartel). When reports first published on the sale of the script in February 2014, Ron Howard had been listed as a possible director of the film. The script was written by Gary Spinelli and was reportedly purchased by Universal Studios. Imagine Entertaiment is also involved in the project via Brian Grazer, the movie’s producer, along with Quadrant Pictures’ Doug Davison, with Universal distributing. Cross Creek Pictures will finance “Mena” and Cross Creek’s Brian Oliver and Tyler Thompson will produce alongside Grazer and Davison. Kim Roth will executive produce and oversee the project for Imagine with senior VP of production Kristin Lowe overseeing for Universal. Jason Seagrave will oversee on behalf of Cross Creek. As to whether the film will actually be shot in Mena is still in the works, although many are hopeful. Mena Mayor George McKee said, “I think it would be good for Mena, good for the economy. I’ve tried to look at every angle of it and I see only positives for the City of Mena.”
Arm’s Conviction Upheld by AR Court of Appeals Published on January 28, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK The Arkansas Court of Appeals upheld the decision of a Polk County Jury in the landmark case of Melissa McCann-Arms who was convicted on January 13, 2014, of one count of Introduction of a Controlled Substance into the Body of Another Person, for which she was sentenced to 20 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. McCann-Arms’ newborn baby was born at Mena Regional Health System addicted to methamphetamine. In the appeal, McCann-Arms was (1) challenging the sufficiency of evidence to support her conviction; (2) arguing that the circuit court erred by denying her motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction; and (3) argued that the circuit court erred by denying her motion to dismiss because the controlled substance was injected into herself and not her child. The Court of Appeals rejected each argument. In it’s findings, the Court of Appeals’ Chief Judge Robert J. Gladwin attempted to certify the third argument of McCann-Arms’ appeal to the Arkansas Supreme Court on the basis that “the application of the relevant statute to a mother introducing a controlled substance into the body of another person-specifically, her child, through the umbilical cord-by way of ingesting or injecting a controlled substance into herself during the time the child was still attached via the umbilical cord is an issue of first impression. The Arkansas Supreme Court declined to hear the appeal.” Ruling that there was sufficient evidence to support the jury’s verdict, Chief Appellate Judge Gladwin concluded that McCann-Arms admission of methamphetamine use, “the day before she gave birth to her son, who was born very ill and exhibiting withdrawal symptoms” was sufficient evidence for the jury to conclude that McCann-Arms was the source of the methamphetamine in his system. FOR CONCLUSION SEARCH THE HEADLINE AT MYPULSENEWS.COM
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December 30, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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The Best of the Best Combined – Ouachita Broadcasting & Pulse Merge Published on April 8, 2015
[MENA, Ark.] A merger of two local media outlets was announced today that will be the first of its kind in the local area. Ouachita Broadcasting, Inc. [MENA RADIO] and The Polk County Pulse have announced a deal to merge their two operations into one. Ouachita Broadcasting includes KENA-FM 104.1, KQORFM 105.3, and 1450AM. The Polk County Pulse includes the weekly print newspaper as well as an online publication, MyPulseNews.com and live-streaming video through MyPulseNews TV. The combined operation will now allow advertisers to have a very simplified manner in which to purchase radio, print, web, and video all through one source. “Instead of multiple sales reps, advertisers will have one marketing specialist to handle all of their advertising needs, one payment, one place… all strategically working together, building a consistent message and brand, thereby, giving businesses the most out of their advertising dollars,” said LeAnn Dilbeck, who will continue to serve as Publisher and now General Manager over the combined operation. All the same faces you know from both the Pulse and radio will remain and all are looking forward to being able to better serve their customers’ needs and our readers and listening audience as well. “We strongly believe this merger will allow us to deliver stronger and more comprehensive news coverage and community service opportunities for our area. I’ve been impressed with the great products that LeAnn and her talented staff provide. The growth they’ve experienced over the past few years has been truly remarkable. Of course, everyone knows about the rich heritage and tradition that KENA has been known for since 1950. So we’re excited that our listeners, readers, viewers, and advertisers now have easy access to all the best of the best!” said owner Jay Bunyard. “Even items for the calendar,” said Dilbeck, “can be streamlined. Email or drop off to one source and they will be announced on-air, printed in the Pulse newspaper, and online at MyPulseNews.com.” Ouachita Broadcasting, namely KENA, has been serving the local community for over 65-years. Nielsen ratings prove KENA-FM to be the radio station of choice to begin everyone’s day with an average listenership of 7,600. KQOR-FM has an average audience share of 4,900. The Polk County Pulse began in August 2007, circulating 4,000 print copies and in just 8 years, has now grown to 8,000 print and an average of 24,000 online readers. The merger is said to be complete by June 1. For now, both operations will continue to operate in separate locations. Phone numbers and emails will remain the same. “We want to keep everyone connected and while some like to listen, others like to read, and by saturating the market with our coverage, we plan to continue to be an integral and active part of our local area,” said Dilbeck. “We have lots of exciting things planned and want the community to be a part of it all. Join us as we celebrate May 29 at The Pulse’s office at 1168 Hwy 71 South with free hot dogs from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and KENA 104.1 will be doing a live remote! Come meet the familiar faces and maybe meet some new ones!”
Editor’s Choice
Tax Increase to Fund Construction of New $10.9 Million County Jail Rejected by Voters Published on May 12, 2015
After months of public debate, town hall meetings, and newspaper articles, voters had the opportunity to let their voices be heard regarding a proposed tax increase to fund a $10.9 million jail facility during a Special Election Tuesday, May 12. Voter turn out was considered to be light for such a Special Election with 553 voting during early election and a remaining 1,446 casting their ballots on Tuesday. Results show that Polk County voters spoke decisively on this issue with 1,187 voters (60%) voting to reject the first measure for a permanent ¼ cent Sales and Use Tax for the purpose of an additional source of revenue to be used to acquire, construct, improve, expand, equip, furnish, operate and maintain new or existing jail and law enforcement facilities, including any necessary land acquisition and utility, road and parking improvements related thereto or in support thereof and to pay and secure the repayment of bonds approved by the voters and issued by the County from time to time to finance jail and law enforcement facilities and facilities related thereto or in support thereof (“Jail and Law Enforcement Bonds”). On the second measure, 1,194 voters (60%) voted to reject a new ¾ cent Sales and Use Tax for the purpose of retiring bonds used to construct the new jail. The ¾ cent tax would be used for “a new jail, sheriff’s office, arraignment room, 911 dispatch center, and administrative offices related to law enforcement and any necessary land acquisition and utility, road and parking improvements related thereto and in support thereof.” Polk County Sheriif Mike Godfrey had this to say following the release of the election results, “Of course I’m disappointed… I know what the future holds. I know it is only a matter of time before the state shuts us down.” Godfrey explained another inspection is coming up in September or October. “The last thing we want is to be shut down. It will cost the county in transport fees and have deputies off the street.” Godfrey assured residents that this will not affect how he or his staff do their job. “Our focus is to protect and serve. We will continue to arrest and charge people and take care of the citizens of Polk County.”
FOR CONCLUSION SEARCH THE HEADLINE AT MYPULSENEWS.COM
Arms Case Overturned by Arkansas Supreme Court Published on October 10, 2015
The Supreme Court of Arkansas has overturned a Polk County jury’s landmark decision that was later affirmed by the Arkansas Court of Appeals in the case of Melissa McCann Arms. Arms was convicted on January 13, 2014, of one count of Introduction of a Controlled Substance into the Body of Another Person, for which she was sentenced to 20 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Arms’ newborn baby was born at Mena Regional Health System addicted to methamphetamine in November 2013. Arms appealed her case to the Arkansas Court of Appeals in January 2015. In the appeal, Arms was (1) challenging the sufficiency of evidence to support her conviction; (2) arguing that the circuit court erred by denying her motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction; and (3) argued that the circuit court erred by denying her motion to dismiss because the controlled substance was injected into herself and not her child. Even though Arms and her newborn tested positive for methamphetamine and Arms’ admitted to taking the drug while pregnant, Arms’ attorney, Randy Rainwater, argued in the appeal that there is no reference to unborn children in the current statute and that Arkansas law does not define an unborn child as a ‘person’ except in cases of homicide. At the time, Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner said there is an easy fix to the law by changing the language to state that ‘person’ includes an ‘unborn child in utero at any stage of development.’ Even though the legislation was unclear, during Arms’s appeal, appellate Judge Whiteaker did concur with Riner that in the case of Arms, it did include unborn children and affirmed the conviction based on the fact that her fluids continued to flow through the umbilical cord to the infant for a period after the child was born. State Representative Nate Bell wrote and tried to pass a bill through the Arkansas General Assembly that would clarify the definition of ‘person’ to include ‘an unborn child in utero at any stage of development;’ however, after passing through the House, it failed in the Senate.
FOR CONCLUSION SEARCH THE HEADLINE AT MYPULSENEWS.COM
Page 16
December 30, 2015
CALENDAR
Thursday, 12/31 • 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. - St. Agnes Church will have a Food Distribution, while supplies last. There are 48 bags of food available. Pre-registration is required at 8:30 a.m. that morning. The Food Distribution will take place in the St. Agnes Parish Hall. • 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/Polk County meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 216-3383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more information. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open. • 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. • 6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel music in the Daisy Room at Janssen Ave Florist.
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
• 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. • 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 2164606. • 8:00 p.m. - The Eagles, F.O.E. 4257, will feature Whiskey Peak for their New Year’s Eve Dance. Entry is $3 each or $5 per couple. Hwy. 71 North towards Acorn on the left. Friday, 1/1 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Road tests are given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room unless the roads are wet. Written tests are given at 1:00 p.m. • 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. • 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, 1/2 • 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. - Cossatot River State Park Journey Stick Hike. Meeting Place: Visitor Center. • 1:00 p.m. – There will be an M.S.A.A. Support Group meeting in Room 156 at RMCC. • 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - Cossatot River State Park – Incredible Journey. Meeting Place: Visitor Center’s Classroom. • 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. • 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Overeater’s Anonymous Newcomer’s Meeting at Church of God 2771 Hwy 88E Mena. Contact: Charlotte at 501-413-4498. • 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – Overeater’s Anonymous Big Book Meeting at Church of God 2771 Hwy 88E Mena. Contact: Charlotte at 501-413-4498. • 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 216-4606. Sunday, 1/3 • 2:30 p.m. – ABATE (Arkansas Bik-
ers Aiming Toward Education) monthly meeting at Limetree Restaurant. Officers meeting at 2:30; general meeting at 3:00 p.m. You don’t have to ride to attend or be a member. A non-profit organization. • 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. • 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. Monday, 1/4 • 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch 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. – Polk County Fair & Rodeo meets at the Fairgrounds. • 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. • 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 2164606. • 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, 1/5 • 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the 9th Street Ministries Building. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. Come join other artists, from beginners to pros, working on their individual projects in the gallery classroom. For more information, call 479394-3880. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – FREE Delicious Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen at Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk 43 (Fairground Road), Mena.
Weekly Publication
479-394-7404. Take-Out available. All are welcome. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch Library will be open. • 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weigh-ins, followed by a meeting from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Visitors are welcome. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. • 6:00 p.m. – Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 646 meets at the Limetree. For more information, contact Henry/Hank Todara at 870-334-2638. • 7:00 p.m. – Dallas Valley RVFD meets for training at the Fire House. • 7:00 p.m. – Acorn Fire & Rescue meets at the Fire Department. • 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, 1/6 • The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Hatfield, Wickes, Grannis, Vandervoort, Cove, and Mena at noon. • 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Charm Quilters formerly Windy Wednesday Quilters now meeting at the Free Will Baptist Church on the corner of Petros and Cherry St. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library is open. • 5:45 p.m. – 6:30 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. – 7:30 p.m. – The Southside Church of God Warriors for Christ will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Regeneration Youth Ministries “Regenerating this Generation” at Mena Church of God Hwy 88 East. • 6:15 p.m. – Discovery Kids – Kindergarten Thru 5th Grade; Collide Youth Ministry – 6th Thru 12th Grades; and Adult Bible Study at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students is held Wednesday evenings at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 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 info.
December 30, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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Page 17
Page 18
CITIZEN
OF THE YEAR
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Note from the Editor: Each year, The Pulse has had the daunting task of selecting a Citizen of the Year from 51 well-deserving candidates previously featured that year. This year, The Pulse left that decision to its readers and the readers overwhelmingly spoke through their number of online views and “likes.” We present to you The Pulse Reader’s Choice Citizen of the Year:
Bryan Russell – We’re Lovin’ His Happiness
1,300
2,028 Views
BY JACLYN ROSE If you have been to the Mena McDonald’s on Highway 71 in the last few weeks, you have probably had the privilege of meeting Brian Russell, the happy guy at the second window who hands out the food and drinks and dispensers of joy, the term he has coined for an average straw. Chances are, Russell made you smile with his joyful personality and genuine smile. And if you smiled, then you made Russell’s day because that was his goal. After moving around a lot as a child, Russell graduated high school in Mississippi and is a self-proclaimed Ole Miss Rebel fan. It was during his senior year of high school that his mother was diagnosed with cancer and he began helping to take care of her. Eventually his mother moved to Tennessee to live near Russell’s sister, but Russell followed when she became sick again. After his mother moved to Mena to be near family, Russell began to see God close some doors in Tennessee and he felt lead to move to Polk County the first of April. “It has been a blessing living in Mena. God has allowed me to go through so much in the past so that I can be where I am today. I was raised in church but then, like many Millennial Generation guys, I thought I didn’t need the Lord and for 12 years I ran from Him and then He got ahold of me and changed me. I never thought I would enjoy working at McDonald’s but I love seeing a smile on someone’s face. Even such a silly thing like calling a straw a ‘dispenser of joy’ can brighten someone’s day and that makes it worth it,” explained Russell. Russell has not had the easiest life, and the norm would be to become bitter or depressed but instead he has allowed God to turn his life experiences into a ministry. “A lot of people ask why I’m so happy and it’s all because of God. I’m just a big guy covered in tattoos, I’ve been homeless three times in the last ten years and I’ve lost everything I had, but through it all God provided and without Him I am nothing. I know that God allowed me to go through all this for His purpose, because without this, I would not be able to help young people. He is the reason I get up in the morning with a smile on my face and He is the reason I love my job, because He provided it and I try to share the Gospel with others with the smile on my face. I had one customer tell me that I was too happy but if one out of ten people that come through smile, then I did my job,” Russell said. “I love the people I work with, they are great and Charlie and Jennifer [management at the Mena McDonald’s] are behind me and my positive attitude, they are great to work for. I hope that one person will ask me why I’m so happy and I can share with them that God is why and that He can make them happy too.” “I really enjoy living in Mena. I like that there’s a little city life but with a small town feel. And the people that come through McDonald’s are great, they are why I’m working here. I also love the mountain and have since I was a child. It’s a great place to live,” Russell said.
Do you struggle with a drug or alcohol addiction? Dr. Hopper can help you with treatment and recovery counseling. Areas of specialty include: • 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 19
December 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
Quality Construction Paul Headings • 479-234-7553
3855 Hwy 88 E, Mena, Arkansas 71953
Shoe Craze – Pairing Up Polk County’s Feet
461 1,459 Views
BUSINESS
Roofing General Construction Power Washing Painting Siding Handyman Services
of the year
• • • • • •
Note from the Editor: Each year, The Pulse has had the daunting task of selecting a Business of the Year from 51 well-deserving candidates previously featured that year. This year, The Pulse left that decision to its readers and the readers overwhelmingly spoke through their number of online views and “likes.” We present to you The Pulse Reader’s Choice Business of the Year:
BY JACLYN ROSE Both natives of Polk County, Tim and Tara Milham married 24 years ago. Together the couple has three children, Timrie, Taryn, and Tanner, and two grandchildren, Raelynn and Allie. “Tim is the hardest working husband ever. He has always Your Satisfaction is Our Goal worked more than one job to support us and he is a good dad and a great poppy to our granddaughters,” said Tara. “I have got the best wife ever,” added Tim. Tim and Tara both have Associate’s Degrees in nursing from the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith and Tara added her Bachelor’s Degree from Arkansas Tech University in 2008. “I spent thirteen years in women’s services at Mena Regional Health Systems before moving to home health. I am currently the Performance Improvement Coordinator for Quality for nine agencies in South Arkansas for the LHC Group,” explained Tara. Tim worked for 13 years in local law enforcement before making the change to the medical field where he now works for the LHC Group as the Director of Nursing for Hospice. With their knowledge and experience in the medical field, the Milham family saw a need for quality scrubs for medical personnel and began carrying a line of Wonder Wink scrubs. “We started thinking about selling nursing shoes to go with the scrubs and Timrie started telling us how she has always wanted a shoe store so it was a perfect fit,” explained Tim. “We feel like there is a local need for the scrubs but also for a family shoe store. We want to appeal to all income levels with shoes for everyone. Shopping local is very important to us and we want to serve our community,” CALL 479-243-9600 added Tara. Located in historic downtown Mena, at 822 Mena Street, in a spacious 4,000 square foot building, Shoe Craze boasts a wide variety of shoe styles and brands, such as Sketchers, Dr. Scholl’s, Stride Rite, Bear Paws, Sanuk, Clarks, Hush Puppies, as well as both steel toe and non-steel toe work boots such as CAT, Carhart, and Rocky for the local law enforcement. Shoe Craze is able to meet the needs of every family member. “We are looking to expand the store in other areas and we are adding new styles and brands constantly,” Manufacturer explained Timrie. Shoe Craze will be hosting a grand opening on February 5th at their store. of Quality CNC Parts Shoe Craze can be found on Face479.394.4248 book, as well as Instagram with the CALL 479-243-9600 104 Port Arthur Avenue handle @shopshoecraze and on Mena, AR 71953-3344 the web at www.shopthecraze.com. They have a monthly scrub giveaway and posts a weekly deal of the week. Shoe Craze also offers a 90-day lay“Serving your families with FULL ATV away and gives a senior discount on Dignity & Care for over 80 years” Tuesdays. SERVICE “We enjoy spending time with our Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent & REPAIR family, especially our sweet grandbaMember of the National Funeral Directors Assoc. Hwy 71N/Hwy 88E Junction bies; we love farming and horseback 611 Janssen, Mena, AR (Behind Terminix) riding. We attend Dallas Avenue Bap(479) 394-1310 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY tist Church and the Lord has blessed us tremendously over the years. He has taught us that through Him we can overcome adversity and has delivered us from financial hardship. Almost two years ago, we lost our home in a fire and we have had many medical issues with our son but God has been there with us through it all. We love our community and have always been in the business of serving, Bruce Erickson, Owner whether it’s been helping a mother have her baby or helping the elderly through home care or all those years of serving in law enforcement for Tim, we love serving and meeting the needs of our community. Our favorite Like us on Facebook! verse is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” said Tara.
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Page 20
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 30, 2015
How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint at Home this Winter (StatePoint) When temperatures drop, household use of fossil fuels rises in order to keep homes warm and comfortable. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, more than one million households nationwide already heat with biomass pellet stoves rather than burn more expensive and damaging fossil fuels like oil -- and such stoves can even be retrofitted into existing fireplaces as an insert. If you’re not familiar with pellet products, here’s what you need to know: What’s a Pellet Stove? Pellet stoves burn uniform cylinders of composite biomass fuel to create a steady, warming fire. Pellets are loaded into the stove hopper and automatically fed into the stove burn pot. Pellet composition varies depending on regional resources, but is typically comprised of a mix of sawdust, waste paper, residual forest waste and agricultural by-products. How They Help Pellet stoves are great for the environment and your wallet in many ways. A few include: • Pellet stoves are already saving 4.5 million tons of carbon emissions, according to the Pellet Fuels Institute. • Each installation of a pellet or wood appliance in a single-family home in a cool climate can displace between four and seven tons of carbon emissions annually, estimates the Alliance for Green Heat -- about three times the impact of buying a hybrid car, for roughly half the cost. • Biomass fuels are constantly replenished and reforested and absorb nearly as much carbon growing as they give off when burned. The result is a virtually invisible carbon footprint. • Pellet stoves cost 64 percent less to operate than heating your home with oil, 47 percent less than propane and 54 percent less than electrical heat. For those thinking long-term, this represents a two to five year payback. What to Know Pellet stoves are available both as a freestanding appliance or an insert in an existing fireplace, making most homes a candidate for this supplemental heating source. New models are environmentally responsible and also easily fit into busy lifestyles. The Harman Absolute43 features an intuitive Easy Touch Control that tells you when to add fuel, perform maintenance, and much more, making heating with pellets easier than ever. To learn more about heating your home with renewable materials, visit www.harmanstoves.com. To reduce your home’s carbon footprint, look to heating alternatives that burn renewable materials rather than precious fossils fuels. With a pellet or wood-burning stove, you will be able to lower your utility budget while adding ambiance to your living spaces.
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We Specialize in Super Insulated Homes IN BUSINESS SINCE 1970
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JAMES EARL TURNER (479) 234-6244 ERIC TURNER (479) 243-5549
Page 21 Weekly Publication AT MENA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM
Pipers Celebrate 50th Evans Celebrate 65 Wedding Anniversary Years of Marriage Dwight and Arvella Evans, of Zafra Oklahoma, will celebrate their 65th anniversary on January 1st with family.
Kalie Clibrey and Buddy Blume, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 12th. Kelly Lopez, of Waldron, is the proud mother of a baby boy, born on December 15th. Tracy Jones, of Mena, is the proud mother of a baby girl, born on December 15th.
Jackson and Johnson to Wed
Amber and Casey Fendley, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 15th. Holly and Max Hartwig, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 17th. Elizabeth and Charles Webb, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 17th. Kristen Manasco and Derek Tarkington, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 18th. Destiney and Gary Athey, of DeQueen, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 20th. Jennifer Taff and Standley Plumley, of Vandervoort, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 21st. Meagan Fenstermacher and William Benson, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 22nd. Dana and Randall Hart, of Mena, are the proud parents of baby boy, born on December 22nd. Tyler and Chance Parker, of Smithville, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 23rd. Altarra and John Higgins, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 23rd. Tiffany Cecil Gantemille, of Cove, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 23rd. Emily Randall and Jared Strother, of Vandervoort, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 24th. Deysi Oscrio-camacena and Alejandro Albarez-jimenez, of DeQueen, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 26th.
FAMILY
POLK COUNTY BIRTHS
December 30, 2015
Allen and Gayla Piper will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at Hatfield First Baptist Church at 2 pm. Friends and relatives are invited to attend. No gifts please.
CUTEST PET PIC Dolly
This is Dolly, a one year old standard donkey. 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:
Mike and Becky Jackson of Acorn are proud to announce the upcoming marriage of their daughter, Jasmine, to Zachary Johnson. Zachary is the son of Russ and Darla Johnson of Hot Springs (previously of De Queen). The wedding will take place at Queen Wilhelmina Lodge near Mena on December 31, 2015 @ 3:00 pm. Friends of the couple and families are invited to attend.
#LOL
Anger Vs. Exasperation A young girl who was writing a paper for school came to her father and asked, “Dad, what is the difference between anger and exasperation?” The father replied, “It is mostly a matter of degree. Let me show you what I mean.” With that, the father went to the telephone and dialed a number at random. To the man who answered the phone, he said, “Hello, is Melvin there?” The man answered, “There is no one living here named Melvin. Why don’t you learn to look up numbers before you dial them?” “See,” said the father to his daughter. “That man was not a bit happy with our call. He was probably very busy with something, and we annoyed him. Now watch . . .” The father dialed the same number again. “Hello, is Melvin there?” asked the father. “Now look here!” came the heated reply. “You just called this number, and I told you that there is no Melvin here! You’ve got a lot of nerve calling again!” The receiver was slammed down hard. The father turned to his daughter and said, “You see, that was anger. Now I’ll show you what exasperation means.” He dialed the same number, and a violent voice roared, “HELLO!” The father calmly said, “Hello, this is Melvin. Have there been any calls for me?”
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POLICE
December 30, 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 December 20, 2015 Report was made of a man harassing his estranged wife. Case is pending interview of all subjects involved. December 21, 2015 A local man reported that a former friend was harassing him and he was concerned for his safety. Case is pending further investigation. Report was taken of two dogs in a local neighborhood running loose. One of them had bitten a woman. Animal control officers responded and located the owner of the dogs. Employees at a local convenience store reported that someone had vandalized one of the restrooms. Case is pending. December 22, 2015 A local woman reported that she had left a cart of groceries outside a local business and had gone back inside the building. When she returned, the cart was gone. Review of surveillance tapes showed a man pushing the cart to his vehicle. He was located and indicated that he thought it was his cart. The woman got all of her items back. December 23, 2015 Report was taken of an altercation between a Mena woman and her grandmother. No charges were filed. December 24, 2015 A call was taken regarding a woman who was arguing with family members. She left the area before
Weekly Publication officers arrived. December 25, 2015 Cody Lee Enyeart, 33, of Mena was charged with theft of property after officers observed him at a local resale shop going through outside bins. December 26, 2015 Report was received of a non-custodial parent refusing to bring children back to the custodial parent. The matter was resolved. Officers worked three accidents. Polk County Sheriff’s Department December 21, 2015 Arrested by an officer with the Drug Task Force was Robert G. Wells, 27, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. December 22, 2015 Report from complainant on Lumber Lane in Board Camp of the fraudulent use of a credit card, totaling losses at $49.95. Arrested was Elizabeth D. Bryce, 50, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. December 23, 2015 Report of a disturbance on Highway 246 West near Hatfield led to the arrest of Kerri M. Mckinnis, 49, of Mena, on a Charge of Public Intoxication. Report from complainant on Polk 147 near Potter of the theft of tools, electronics, jewelry and household items. Investigation continues. Traffic stop on Polk 45 near Mena led to the arrest of Stephen C. Hilton, 27, of Mena, on a Charge of Public Intoxication. Report from complainant on Polk 35 near Hatfield of a vehicle being taken without permission led to a Citation for Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle being issued to Isaac L. B. Cain, 22, of Mena. December 24, 2015 Report of an unattended death on Polk 20 West near Cove. The scene was released to the Polk County Coroner. Report from complainant of vandalism to vehicle tires while parked on Park Street in Hatfield, totaling losses at $850.00. Investigation continues.
December 25, 2015 Report of an unattended death on Polk 49 near the Shady Grove community. The scene was released to the Polk County Coroner. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Mitchell T. Buss, 32, of Howe, OK, on Charges of Careless/Prohibited Driving, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Obstructing Governmental Operations, Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License and Theft by Receiving. December 26, 2015 Reports from a Grannis man and a Mena woman of problems with child custody exchange. Report from complainant on Polk 136 near Cove of the theft of appliances. Investigation continues. Arrested by a trooper with the
Arkansas State Police was Brandy M. Marsh, 24, of Waldron, on Charges of DWI and Careless/Prohibited Driving. Arrested was Tonia D. Daniel, 40, of Mena, on a Sevier County Warrant. December 27, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 80 near the Shady community of being harassed by a neighbor. Deputy responded, advised neighbor to not return to the residence. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked three vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 13 Incarcerated Inmates; 6 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 30, 2015
Weekly Publication
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Mena Public School’s Breakfast Monday 1/4 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk Tuesday 1/5 Mini donuts, fruit, juice, milk Wednesday 1/6 Breakfast bites, fruit, juice, milk Thursday 1/7 Breakfast pizza, fruit, juice, milk Friday 1/8 Pancakes, fruit, juice, milk
Mena Public School’s Lunch Monday 1/4 Main: Steak fingers, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, broccoli & cheese, hot roll, fruit, milk; Choices: Grilled chicken, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, broccoli & cheese, hot roll, fruit, milk, or Chef Salad Tuesday 1/5 Main: Crunchy chicken enchilada melt, lettuce, tomato, pickle spear, fruit, milk; Choices: Ham & cheese on flatbread, lettuce, tomato, pickle spear, Frito’s, fruit, milk, or Soup Wednesday 1/6 Main: Beef stew, biscuit, mango splash juice, cookie, fruit, milk; Choices: Burrito w/ cheese sauce, ranch beans, mango splash cookie fruit, milk, or Chef Salad Thursday 1/7 Main: Tacos, lettuce, tomato, pinto beans, fruit, milk; Choices: Chicken quesadilla, lettuce, tomato, pinto beans, fruit, milk, or Soup Friday 1/8 Main: Corndogs, tator tots, carrot sticks w/ ranch, fruit, milk; Choices: BBQ Sloppy Joes, tator tots, carrot sticks w/ ranch, fruit, milk, or Baked Potato Acorn School’s Breakfast Monday 1/4 no school Tuesday 1/5 Breakfast mini donuts, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal Wednesday 1/6 Breakfast cereal, fruit juice milk Thursday 1/7 Breakfast Sausage biscuit, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal Friday 1/8 Breakfast Super Bun, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal
Acorn School’s Lunch Monday 1/4 no school Tuesday 1/5 Taco Salad, salsa, corn, peaches, milk Wednesday 1/6 Sloppy Joes, black-eye peas, coleslaw, mixed fruit, milk Thursday 1/7 Chicken Fajita Salad, ranch style beans, crackers, pears, milk Friday 1/8 Chili, cheese, corn chips, cinnamon roll, fruit, milk
COSSATOT RIver School’s Breakfast Monday 1/4 Banana loaf, applesauce, orange juice, milk Tuesday 1/5 Biscuit & gravy, fruit cup, apple juice, milk Wednesday 1/6 Cereal, orange wedges, cherry juice, milk Thursday 1/7 Breakfast pizza, apple wedges, orange juice, milk Friday 1/8 Super donut, banana, apple juice, milk
Cossatot River School’s Lunch Monday 1/4 Chicken strips, macaroni & cheese, ranch beans, pears, roll, milk Tuesday 1/5 Country fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, pineapple roll, milk Wednesday 1/6 Soft taco, lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa, pinto beans, fruit cocktail, milk Thursday 1/7 Chicken crispito, cheese stick, tossed salad w/ dressing, peaches, sugar cookie, milk Friday 1/8 Hot ham & cheese sandwich, potato wedges, carrots & broccoli w/ dressing, mandarin oranges, 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
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. 479TFN 394-5515.
Yard mowing, weed eating, bush hogging, handyman services, power washing. Have own equipment and tools. Call 479-2165204. 01/06
Clean & Comfortable housing since 1969, J. Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479 TFN 394-1252.
Squeaky Clean Mobile Dog Wash, Dry, Nails, Ears, Brushing, Clipping, All Breeds, I will come to you. Deanna Boyd, 479-234-1866 Facebook. 1/20
Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair, decks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068. 12/30
CLASSIFIEDS
UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD BORDER $1 ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID.
For Sale: 2 Electric Wheelchairs aspire - $450.00 Jazzy Select GT $550.00 New Batteries on both. Call 243-3267. 12/30
J & N Dozer - Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, For Rent: RV spaces near Good HuntGravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, ing, Hatfield. Bills paid $75.00 a week. over 30 years experience. We appreci- Call 870-389-6224. 12/30 ate your Business! Call 479-234-1357. TFN Books ‘n’ Stuf 704 Mena St. We have lots of Quilting, Country music, cross Precision copy and restoration of art, stitch magazines, and lots more science photos, negatives and slides. Michael fiction. 1/13 2/17 Cate 479-437-4902. Now Buying desktops and laptops. New or old, broken or working, from DOS to Windows 10 and anything in between. Cracked screen? Full of viruses? Hit by lightning? I want it! NOT buying printers or CRT monitors. Mitchell Computer Services 717 Mena Street. 1/20
All My Friends Take SELENIUM 12/30 James Payton.
Mena Tire Co. is looking to add two new employees, full time. One tire technician and one mechanic, must have experience in front end and brake work. You may apply at Arkansas Workforce Center or contact Stacy at Mena Tire. 1/06
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Page 24
‘13 Chevy Tahoe LT $30,900
‘13 Chevy Sonic $7,900
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 30, 2015
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