February 10, 2016 by The Pulse

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February 10, 2016

THE POLK COUNTY

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

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More than 90 Acres of Woodlands Lost to Monday Fire Judge Issues County-Wide Burn Ban BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

A Dearly Beloved Way to Spend this Valentine’s Weekend

Crews responded to two different fires in the county on Monday, after a burn ban had been issued by Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison. The burn ban went into effect at 8 a.m. on Monday, February 8, 2016, until further notice. The ban was put into place due to low humidity, dead winter vegetation, and high winds that when combined cause a large increase in fire activity. Polk County Emergency Management Coordinator James Reeves said the first fire was called in around 12:15 p.m. from the Board Camp CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Early Voting Begins Next Week

Sheriff Candidates State Positions on Jail Issue BY LEANN DILBECK • editor@mypulsenews.com

Early voting would typically begin 15 days prior to the election; however, this year, early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 16. Arkansas Law States that early voting shall not be available on state or county holidays. Monday, February 15 is President’s Day; therefore, early voting will begin Tuesday, February 16. Early voting is held at the Polk County Ofﬁce Complex at 606 Pine Street in Mena, commonly referred to as the “old hospital.” Hours for early voting will be each weekday at 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 20th CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Engineer Deems Crack Poses ‘No Threat’ to Water Quality at Irons Fork Clearwell BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

In late January, engineers from Craig L. Beckham Engineers (CLB) out of Texarkana, Arkansas, inspected a 600,000 gallon clearwell at Mena Water Utilities at Iron’s Fork Lake and found a large crack in the concrete structure. Water Utilities Manager Charles Pittman said the structure is 27 years old and the crack is from natural wear from over the years. Since the

[PHOTO BY MELANIE BUCK]

The OLT’s production of Dearly Beloved opens this weekend and would be the perfect addition to a date night with your Valentine! See the full story and details of this hilarious production directed by Judy Thompson on page 29. Or if you are searching for other unique Valentine gift ideas, check out our complete Valentine Gift Guide on pages 15-18.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939

www.washburns.com Mon-Fri 8:30 to 6:00 • Sat 9:00 - 3:00 (479) 394-4332 • (888) 394-4332

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February 10, 2016

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Talimena 13.1 Coming Soon

he Talimena 13.1 Run and Relay is coming up fast and prices for registration will go up soon for this year’s event. The annual half marathon will see runners start off in Janssen Park for this oneof-a-kind half-marathon, running up Mena Street and trekking over the Talimena Scenic Byway to the Queen Wilhelmina State Park at the top of Rich Mountain. This race continues the legacy provided by the Rich Mountain Classic, a popular race in the 80’s and 90’s. On Saturday, March 12, 2016 beginning at 8 a.m. participants each of three categories, individual, 4-person, and 13-person relay team, will make the climb. The primary purpose of the event is to support programs for physically and mentally challenged adults and children provided by Polk County Developmental Center. PCDC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that serves the developmentally disabled in Polk County and the surrounding area. The Talimena 13.1 is part of the annual fundraisers that provide funding for PCDC to maintain, expand, provide resources, and serve their clients. Planning Committee member Dale Powell said before last year’s race, “bringing this race back now has greater purpose as a fund raising event for the Polk County Development Center. It features not only a running challenge, but showcases the beauty of the area from Mena and up the Talimena Drive that overlooks some of the most scenic views of the National Forest, anywhere, and into the State Park.” Medals will be given to all individual finishers and the first 150 registrations will receive a goody bag and t-shirt. For complete information, visit www.talimenarunandrelay.com. To register, visit www.RunReg.com/TalimenaRunAndRelay. Current registration pricing is $40 per individual, $120 per 4-person relay team, and $260 per 13-person team. However, on Sunday, February 14, pricing will increase slightly and if not purchased by March 11, they will have one more increase. Racers are encouraged to register soon. Those interested can also visit their Facebook page, Talimena 13.1. All proceeds from the race will benefit the Polk County Development Center.

The 27th Annual Mena FFA Alumni Auction was held last Saturday. ABOVE Auctioneer Jimmy Martin was one of the auctioneers who spent the day taking bids for the Alumni Association that will be used to fund various trips and needs of the Mena FFA students. Mena FFA Alumni President David Head said, “The sales volume was about $15K higher this year compared to last year. We had good weather, it was well advertised and well attended.” The Alumni Association expressed their appreciation for the many volunteers who make the auction possible each year and the community’s continued support. [PHOTO BY MELANIE BUCK]

More than a school, we are a family! MMY A T & DAVID YOU NG Ouachita River Wellness Clinic on the Acorn School Campus Grethen Goodnight, APN - Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Call to schedule an appointment TODAY: Healthy Connections - 437-3449 Ouachita River Wellness Clinic - 394-2932

Director of Development & Community Relations, Rich Mountain Community College Education - BA Rehabilitation Science, MS College Student Personnel (December 2016) Member of The Crossing Church, Mena Lioness Lion’s Club, Mena/Polk County Rotary Club, Class 10 LeadAR Alumnae, Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce 2015 Citizen of the Year, Rotary Club of Polk County/Mena Rotarian of the Year, Mena Regional Health System Board of Directors Secretary, Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce Board President. My career at Acorn High School span from 1981 until my high school graduation in 1984. In that short time, I learned not only the value of a quality education, but learned that an education was more about life lessons than just about academics. In my experience at Acorn, I was mentored by teachers and staff who lived by example and invested their time and talents to cultivate a supportive and caring environment for students and their families. I will always treasure the gifts they shared with me: excellent education, character development, lifelong friendships, and a loving family. I am very blessed to be a member of this extended family.

“

I will always treasure the gifts they shared with me: excellent education, character development, lifelong friendships, and a loving family.

---Tammy Young

“

I cannot say enough

good things about my experience at Acorn and I would not

”

change anything if I had to do it over.

---David Young Human Resource Manager, Sterling Machinery Inc. - 26 years Member of The Crossing Church, Served on the Mena Water Commission 2004 to current My career at Acorn span from 4th grade until graduating in 1984. I cannot say enough good things about my experience at Acorn and I would not change anything if I had to do it over. Baseball was my first love and quickly realized basketball was king at Acorn and if you were going to achieve anything it would take hard work and dedication. I was fortunate to have been involved in athletics at Acorn, playing both baseball and basketball. So many great teachers, coaches stand out in my mind. Each one helped to develop me – both personally and professionally. Even though I had the legendary Orval Heath for only two years as a coach, today he is one I still look up to like a father. His life was a living example of what Christ has called us to be and how to live our lives. I often share gratitude with my fellow alumni about how blessed we were to have learned from great role models at Acorn.

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Davenport Takes Voyage in Vintage Heirloom BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

umper Davenport was the guest speaker at last week’s Mena Lions Club meeting, where he told the story of an exciting boating adventure. Davenport has grown up with a love of boating, following in a family tradition that started with his parents. In the 1970’s his parents purchased a 25 ft. 1961 Owens Wood Boat, made from mahogany. Making their first long voyage on the Arkansas River, from Tulsa, Oklahoma to the White River in southeastern Arkansas, Davenport fell in love with the concept and has now, completed his own voyage. The trip came about by Davenport joining a wooden boat society several years ago. One of the patrons suggested the idea of a journey to some of the other members and the trip was planned. In all, there were six boats, including Davenport’s. The other boats were mostly antiques as well. A 1984 Navy workboat took the voyage, as did a 1959 Criscraft from Texas, owned by a 78-year old man, a 1984 Thompson from Missouri, and two 1990 models, one of which was also guided by a 78-year old man. Last October, he and five other boats set sail from Muskogee, Oklahoma and made the trip. The best part, Davenport did it in the same boat that his parents had, the 1961 mahogany boat, and he was able to complete the trip with his own son. “I started out with a friend and I got to pick my son up in Conway and he went the rest of the trip with me,” said Davenport. He explained that on the first day, a Sunday, the wind was terrible and it was cold, and just not a very good start to the trip. Waiting more than three hours at the first lock, it was after 11 p.m. when the day ended, following one small roadblock after another. However, on day two, things changed and the rest of the trip was virtually mishap free, with beautiful weather and pleasant spirits. Each day the ships would port throughout the state. On day two, Russellville was their day’s end; on day three, Little Rock. “We got a tour of the Razorback submarine and that was an experience,” smiled Davenport. On day four, we left for Pine Bluff with good weather. We made a speedy trip, traveling on average at about 22 miles per hour. On day five, we only had nine miles to travel to get to the White River and we arrived around 3 p.m.,” he explained. “The trip lasted from Sunday to Thursday and we had no real problems, no real mishaps. It was a great experience and an absolutely beautiful trip,” said Davenport.

January 6, 2016

Treat Your Special Prim Someone Spece Rib ial! to Dinner at

ORDER OFF MENU ALL DAY MON. - 11AM-8:30PM • CLOSED TUES. • WED. & THURS. - 11AM-8:30PM FRI. & SAT. - 11AM-9:30PM • SUN. -11AM-8PM ON THE CORNER OF SHERWOOD AND SEVENTH STREET • 479-437-3240

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Obama Approves Federal Disaster Declarations Following ‘Goliath’ Floods Hardest Hit Mountain Fork Bridge Repaired and Reopened

resident Obama has approved Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson’s request for a major disaster for the State of Arkansas as a result of severe weather and flooding from late December 2015 through January 2016. The declaration will allow residents and government entities in the affected areas, who meet certain criteria, to apply for assistance. Although 43 counties were declared disaster areas within the state, not all of those qualified for all types of federal assistance. Some counties qualified for public assistance but not individual assistance and vice versa.   Public Assistance for emergency work and repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities will be available for all 32 counties requested by the state including: Benton, Boone, Bradley, Calhoun, Carroll, Clay, Crawford, Dallas, Drew, Franklin, Greene, Independence, Izard, Lawrence, Little River, Logan, Madison, Marion, Mississippi, Montgomery, Ouachita, Perry, Pike, Polk, Randolph, Scott, Searcy, Stone, Washington, White, Woodruff, and Yell Counties.   Public assistance in Polk County will include repayment for damaged roads and bridges such as the one pictured on Polk Road 38. During the flood that began in Polk County on December 27, 2015, several bridges and roads were severely damaged. The Polk 38 bridge was one of the largest projects that Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison and county road crews have completed since the flood. Final cost on the bridge and the other projects has not been finalized but Ellison said over 70% of the projects that will qualify for public assistance are complete so he has an idea by the time FEMA gets here what the county’s cost was and what reimbursement is needed. Only one road that received damage from the flood is still closed. Polk County Road 74, just south of Cove has a 20ft concrete bridge that had to be replaced. Ellison expects that project to be complete within the next couple of weeks, pending good weather. Individual Assistance for individuals and households will be available for residents of 11 of the 19 counties requested by the state including: Benton, Carroll, Crawford, Faulkner, Jackson, Jefferson, Lee, Little River, Perry, Sebastian, and Sevier. Additional designations may be added to the declaration if requested by the state and warranted by results of further damage assessments.   Through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, funds will be available for actions taken to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards for all areas of the state.   Arkansas Department of Emergency Management and Federal Emergency Management Agency officials will soon announce plans to open offices throughout the affected areas to accept assistance applications.

Carwash Burglars Swiftly Apprehended BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

Two burglars were caught on Friday morning [February 5, 2016] following a short investigation by the Mena Police Department. According to records, James Hembree, age 55, and Cody Enyeart, age 32, both of Mena, were arrested in the commercial burglary of two local car washes. Both Hembree and Enyeart were charged with Commercial Burglary, a Class C Felony; Breaking or Entering of a Coin Operated Machine, a Class D Felony; Theft of Property and Criminal Mischief, both misdemeanors. In addition to the burglary charges, Enyeart was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, both Class D Felonies.

“It was a mix between us and people in the community paying attention,” said Mena Police Chief Brandon Martin.

Eagles Valentine’s Day Party 7pm - ? Sunday, February 14, 2016 music by Warrior Dan’s Medicine Show

A night of love songs and songs about love... A mix of rock, country and pop Hwy 71 Towards Acorn For more details call 394-2887

OUACHITA TAX NORMA (PEARCE) LOTT, E A

Reasonable Fees

Hwy 270 at Acorn Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.-Noon Appointments any time

479-394-8016

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

After floodwaters receded from late 2015’s ‘Goliath’ storm, the damage to Polk Road 38 bridge that spans the Mountain Fork River was assessed and the bridge was deemed impassable. County crews completed repairs on the bridge last week and County Judge Brandon Ellison expects that FEMA will reimburse the county for most of the damages.

The Polk County Housing Authority has apartments located in MENA, HATFIELD, COVE AND WICKES APPLICANTS ARE NEEDED

Not all bedroom sizes and locations are immediately available. MAXIMUM RENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: 3 BEDROOM $571.00 2 BEDROOM $423.00 1 BEDROOM $323.00 Efficiency $309.00 The Housing Authority pays the following expenses: Natural Gas, Water, Sewer and Garbage pickup.

ACTUAL RENT IS BASED ON INCOME

WE CONDUCT A CREDIT AND CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND APPLICANTS MUST MEET INCOME GUIDELINES. POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTIES ARE “SMOKE-FREE” ALL APPLICANTS ARE ACCEPTED ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS PHONE: 479-394-1565 or 479-394-1569 APPLY AT: Polk County Housing Authority 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR 71953

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Craig Hired as New Mena BY MELANIE BUCK Postmaster news@mypulsenews.com After twenty-seven years with the U.S. Postal Service, Penny Craig is making Mena’s post office her home where she will serve as the new Postmaster. Craig began working in the Wickes office as the relief-Postmaster on a part-time basis, where she remained for 13 ½ years. “I like working with the smaller post offices where you know everyone,” Craig smiled. Her first Postmaster job came when she transferred to Alleen, Arkansas. Over the next thirteen years, she served in two more small rural communities in Little River County. Texarkana was Craig’s next stop where she served as a Supervisor, the same position she would later hire in at Mena for. Craig was welcomed by the staff at Mena U.S.P.S. with a reception and a new office chair on Friday, February 5 and admits her excitement in her new venture. “I have always loved my job. I’m a people person. I wouldn’t know life any other way. I love helping take care of people,” Craig said.

VOTE

for Polk County Sheriff and Collector

My wife Sharon Grant Gorden Greg Gorden & wife Alisa Grandchildren Samantha, Gavin, Gage and Devin

Couple has Been Each Other’s Valentine news@mypulsenews.com for 70 Years V

BY MELANIE BUCK

alentine’s Day is celebrated all across the planet as a day of love and romance. For one Polk County couple, their love and romance has lasted every day for seventy years. Seventy years of marriage… a fete that very few can boast, but Pete and Betty Brewer can - on February 21st, the couple will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary. Pete grew up in Montgomery County and Betty grew up in Polk County. They met when they were both quite young. “He’d been away in Texas working and I was 16 and he was 19,” said Betty. She continued, “A long time ago, people come to town on Saturday, everybody came. My daddy had a ﬂat bed truck and we had loaded up and come to town. Pete had been to an auction and he had come out and ﬂirted with me. He was always a happy-go-lucky person and he had this stool he had bought at the auction. I said, ‘if you were a gentlemen, you’d give a lady a seat,’ and he said, ‘I don’t see no ladies.’” They both gave a big laugh when the story was told, because, of course, it was just his ornery way shining through. After two years of dating, Pete was destined to serve in Japan during World War II. He was about to leave and the two decided to marry, as many did just before going to war. “We married in secret. The man had to be 21 to marry and I thought the woman did too so I thought if anyone knew, we’d be in trouble,” said Betty. Months later, Betty’s little brother pulled some of her belongings out from under her bed. As her mother was putting the things back, she found Betty and Pete’s marriage license. “I thought I was in trouble,” she said. However, she soon learned that a woman had to be just 18 to marry so she was in the clear, after keeping such a secret for so many months. After a thirteen-month stint in the Army, Pete made his way back home where he collected his woman and moved to Dallas, Texas where they lived for the next forty years. He became a builder and she worked for the school system. “When he became a Christian we began to ask God where our ministry was and He CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

January 6, 2016

• FAIR • HONEST • INTEGRITY • OPEN DOOR POLICY “I will work hard for ALL the people of Polk County.

Your Vote Counts!

THAT I LOVE AND PROTECT!

Your family is important too, and given the opportunity, I will protect them as my OWN!

I appreciate your vote and confidence in me.”

My Family

Political Ad Paid for by Mickey Simmons

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Early Voting

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and Saturday, February 27. There will be no early voting for this election in the County Clerk’s

voters are confused by the option of a Non-Partisan Judicial General Election Ballot, voters mistakenly think this is where Independent candidates appear. Independent candidates will not appear on any ballot until the November General Election. The Non-Partisan Judicial General Ballot is for judicial races only such as Supreme Court Justice races and District or Circuit Court Judges. Those races will also appear on the Party Primary Ballots. Several sample ballots will be available at each polling place and you are strongly encouraged to review the ballots prior to getting in line to vote in order to determine which ballot you want.” Harrison added that sample ballots may also be obtained by contacting her office prior to Election Day or by visiting www.voterview.org. “When you go to this website, you will click on the tab that says registration information. You will then need to key in your name and date of birth and click search. It will pull up your voter registration record. You can check it to verify that everything is still correct. Below that, there will be a section that says ‘sample ballots.’ You can view each ballot to see what races will appear on each ballot so when you go to the polls, you will know which ballot you want to request. If you find any error on your registration information, please contact my office prior to Election Day.”

office. Election Day polls will be open from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. There has been one change in polling locations. Precinct 2 voters who previously voted at the Union Mission Multi-Purpose Building on Janssen Street will now be voting at 9th Street Ministries at 306 9th Street in Mena. This is a permanent change for Precinct 2. If you do not know where to vote on Election Day, you can call the County Clerk’s office at 479-394-8123 to verify the proper polling location prior to Election Day. Polling places for Election Day are as follows: Precinct 1: Fire Station on Mena Street Precinct 2: 9th Street Ministries at 306 9th Street Precinct 3: Fire Station on DeQueen Street Acorn: Acorn High School Ink: Concord Baptist Church Board Camp: Board Camp Baptist Church Cherry Hill: Cherry Hill Methodist Church Big Fork: Big Fork Community Center Dallas Valley: Dallas Valley Fire Station Rocky: Mountain Fork Church Potter: Potter Fire Station Hatfield: Hatfield Town Hall Cove: Cove Town Hall Vandervoort: Vandervoort Community Center Wickes: Wickes Town Hall Grannis: Grannis Town Hall After receiving nuAbsentee ballot requests are now being accepted in merous requests from the County Clerk’s office by calling 394-8123 to request listeners and readers an absentee application. The County Clerk’s Office regarding each of the cannot mail an absentee ballot until they receive an absentee ballot application from the voter. The deadline Sheriff candidates’ for the County Clerk’s Office to mail an absentee ballot positions on the issues is Tuesday, February 23, so if you wish to receive an abfacing the Polk County sentee ballot by mail, you must request your ballot prior Detention Center, The to that date. If you have recently registered to vote or changed your Pulse posed the questions. Their responses address and did not receive a voter ID card in the mail, you should call the County Clerk’s Office to verify your are included on pages voter registration status prior to Super Tuesday, March 1. 12-14 of this issue. Super Tuesday is fast approaching. During the 2015 Legislative Session, the legislature passed a bill moving the Presidential Primary and Non-Partisan Judicial General Election to March 1 for this year. The purpose of this Primary Election is OWNER - JASON MILES for each party to elect their nominee that will then appear on the General Election Ballot in November. “We’ll go the extra mile for you!” In just a few weeks when voters head * Custom Homes to the polls to vote on Super Tuesday * Remodels (March 1), they will be asked which ballot * Window Replacement they wish to vote. They will have 3 ballots * Additions to choose from: Republican Primary * Vinyl Siding Ballot, Democratic Primary Ballot, or a Non-Partisan Judicial Ballot. Polk County Clerk Terri Harrison said, “Many times

The Polk County Election Commission tests voting machines prior to early voting that begins in Polk County next week, on February 16, 2016 at the Polk County Office Complex.

MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE *Free Estimates*

479-216-3072

Political Ad Paid for by Michelle Health Schnell

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Acorn to Host District Tourney The Acorn Campus of the Ouachita River School District has been selected as the host school for the 7 West1A Senior District Basketball Tournament set to begin February 15-20. The 7West-1A Junior District Basketball Tournament is underway this week at Kirby. A total of ﬁve schools are expected for the senior tourney: Acorn, Oden, Kirby, Umpire, and Caddo Hills. A copy of the brackets are available on the Polk County Pulse Facebook page. All games will be played in what is referred to as the “new” gym at the Acorn Campus. Ouachita River School District Superintendent Jerry Strasner said the school is looking forward to hosting the tournament and pulling in visitors to the local community.

Elks Members and Guests

BY MELANIE BUCK Veterans Honor Local Waitress for her ‘Quiet Deeds’news@mypulsenews.com

hannon Clifford was honored by the Disabled American Veterans Ouachita Chapter #46 (DAV) and Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA) for her tireless work of helping others with no expectation of receiving any notice from others. Shannon is well-known by many as a waitress at Skyline Café. Smiling and serving others has been her lifestyle for many years, although few fail to see more than just her serving a glass of sweet tea or a plate loaded with fries and a burger. Shannon also serves the elderly, and the needy, and the veterans, and the animals, and wherever God sets her heart. Whether it be extra blankets and a small heater for someone in need of heat, or just a knock on the door to make sure the occupant is ok, or reminding her Facebook friends to check on their neighbors during bad weather, Shannon has served. On Thursday, February 4, 2016, Shannon was honored by some of those she has touched, the veterans. Don Martin, member of the DAV had many nice things to say about her, all of which were worthy, and all of which LOOK FOR SHANNON TO BE FEATURED AS AN UPCOMING PULSE brought tears to her eyes. Martin said, “Our mission is to do CITIZEN OF THE WEEK good for our community, for veterans in general, and for disabled veterans in particular. There are others in the community that do many good deeds and do not seek attention for it. Martin used scripture to describe Shannon’s deeds and melded Proverbs 31 into a poem that described a noble woman. “Who can ﬁnd a woman of noble character? She is worth more than diamonds and gold. She brings people good, not harm, all the days of her life. She gets up while it is still dark and brings nourishment to those who hunger. She works with eager hands bringing food from afar. She sets about her work vigorously. She is diligent at her tasks. She opens her arms to the poor, and extends her hands to the needy. She is clothed with strength and dignity. She brings laughter to the lonely. Many women do noble things. But you Shannon Clifford, deserve our praise.” A plaque was presented to her that reads: Presented to Shannon Clifford in grateful recognition for your quiet kindness and compassion for the disabled and elderly ~ DAV Ouachita Chapter #46 After receiving her plaque to a standing ovation, Shannon tearfully said, “Thank you for what you do for us and have done for us and I can say, anything we give back is not near enough. Thank you.”

“Many

women do noble things, but you, Shannon Clifford, deserve our praise.”

January 6, 2016

Congratulations Brynn Harvey on making

All-State Symphonic Band! 8:00 pm until Midnight Cover $6.00 for members - $7.00 for guests Prime Rib Dinner $25.00 per person Please make reservations for dinner by February 9 by calling lodge at 394-9919

We are very proud of you! Love Dad, Mandy, Connor, Ciarra, Chloie & Danny

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Water Quality

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RMCC Foundation Awards 97 Scholarships O

crack has been found, plant operators have begun filling the well to just 450,000 gallons to keep from losing any water through the space. Pittman said the engineers said that the structure is SUBMITTED still sound and the ground is not shifting, it is truly just natural wear and tear. n January 26th, the RMCC Foundation hosted a Engineers also said the crack does not scholarship reception to recognize and celebrate affect the quality or distribution of the fall 2015 and spring 2016 scholarship recipients and water. The only difference at the plant donors. The program included a welcome and invocais that they have to run it a little more tion by RMCC Foundation Chair, Donna Montgomery, because they are unable to hold many speech by RMCC Academic All-Star, Brittany Fields, an gallons in storage due to the crack. overview of RMCC Foundation scholarship funds with CLB is currently searching for opacknowledgement of donor and recipient by Director of tions to fix the structure. They have perDevelopment and Community Relations, Tammy Young formed work for Mena Water Utilities in and closing remarks by RMCC President, Dr. Phillip Wilthe past and are currently working on son. For the fall and spring semesters, 97 scholarships Mena Water Utilities Manager Charles Pittman shows engineers from CLB Engiwere awarded to RMCC students. The RMCC Foundaneering Firm the issues with the clearwell that sits at Irons Fork Lake and holds sludge pads where new geotubes will tion thanked donors for their generous support and the 600,000 gallons of public water. sit at the sewage plant. “A study is currently being done to recipients for choosing RMCC to pursue their higher provide us with options. Those options educational goals. will range from putting sealant in the crack, to placing a liner inside the well, to replacing the whole thing,” said Pittman. For more information about RMCC Foundation scholWhen presented with the options the Mena Water Commission decide which to choose and depending on how they arships, contact Tammy Young, Director of Development have to pay for it, it may have to go through city council. and Community Relations at (479) 3947622, x. 1220 or The study is expected to be complete in 45-60 days, close to the end of March. In the meantime, Pittman said contyoung@rmcc.edu. sumers should have no concerns on the quality or distribution of their water. “It is really not affecting the company or water,” he said. Also in water utility news, during the management team report of the most recent Mena Water Utilities Commission meeting, Pitman explained the annual retail Like us on Facebook 479-394-4200 • Toll Free 1-888-394-4200 • 1114 A Hwy 71 South, Mena water rate increase. Each year the hollyspringsRE increase is based on the Consumholly_springs_real_estate er Price Index and this year, rates Ready to sell? were increased by 0.7%, equaling Or, are you looking .02 cents per 1,000 gallons. Pitman for that ‘just right’ said the average bill would increase approximately .11 cents per month. property? Broker/Owners The next Mena Water Utility We’ll be glad to Keith’s cell - 479-243-5341 Commission meeting is scheduled Sharon’s cell - 479-394-8514 help you! for Monday, February 22, 2016 at 5 3478 - Spacious Log 3547 - Neat Brick Ranch Style Home with front and back p.m. in the Mena Water Utility Board Home on over 9 porches sits on an inviting large tree shaded lot. The 1588 sq ft Room.

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403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953

479-243-9024

New Patients Welcome

home has a 3/2 split floorplan with master bedroom and bath w/double vanity sinks. Kitchen cabinetry plus hallway built-ins provide great storage. Breakfast bar and a dining area. Laundry room has back entry way. The large 34x40 shop building is insulated and has a workroom with overhead loft storage accessible by a stairway. Circle driveway with concrete parking pads and approaches. $145,000

3587 - We found what everyone is looking for, this beautiful log sided home with 2263 sq ft 21/2 ba , garage plus a detached garage and work shop. The interior will amaze with the granite counter tops, built in appliances, separate dining room, gas log fire place. The deck has mountain views in every direction which you can enjoy from the hot tub. Listing includes all furniture and appliances. close to National Forest for hunting and hiking in the woods. Call today for your showing. $287,500

acres covered with beautiful pine trees. There are two large shops that are rigid frame metal and are fully insulated. One is 40' x 75' plus a 10' side and the other is 40' x 60'. The home has appx 2420 sq ft with 3 bdr/2 baths, large open kitchen and dining with adjacent living room that opens to 1682 sq ft of deck with wonderful entertaining space. Just off Hwy 71 S close in to Mena. Plus there is a creek on this terrific property! $199,000

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Fires

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

area. The homeowner had been burning trash in a pit on his property on Sunday and had thought the fire was out. However, after returning home from a trip to town on Monday, the fire had apparently stoked back up and had blown into a nearby wooded area. Board Camp Volunteer Fired Department responded and received immediate mutual aid from Ink and Cherry Hill. “The fire was contained to three acres fairly quickly due to those three departments working together,” said Reeves. He also explained that no water was used on the fire due to the proximity of the blaze and that hand tools were used by firefighters to extinguish the fire. Four standing dead trees were cut and laid down by firefighters to keep the fires from spreading more rapidly through embers in the wind. The second fire was called into the Polk County Dispatch around 2:30 p.m. Monday afternoon by a logging crew on Polk 33 near Vandervoort. U.S. Forestry was called to fight the fire, where again, no water was used, only dozer work. After containing the fire late Monday night, it was determined that 88 acres were lost. “Part of what helped the fire from being any bigger was the fact that the logging crew came out and met forestry crews and led them to the location, otherwise, it could’ve taken a while longer to find it because of the remote location,” Reeves explained. He also said that aircraft was unable to drop water on the fire because of wind. With gusty conditions continuing into Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued a fire weather watch and followed that at 11:15 a.m. with a Red Flag Warning that remains in effect for much of western Arkansas and all of Polk County.

High Speed Pursuit Ends in Oklahoma

BY MELANIE BUCK

news

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February . . . . . . . . . 10, . . . 2016 ....

news@mypulsenews.com

Polk County Sheriff’s deputies were involved in a high-speed pursuit around 10:30 p.m. on Monday night [February 8, 2016] following an attempted stop. Deputy Seth Smith said that Timothy Glen Bailey, age 38 of Cove, and a description of his vehicle, a white Honda car, were called in after being seen stopping in front of a residence and speeding off. The owner of the residence has had suspicious fires at the residence and called Bailey into police because of that reason. Upon receiving the call, dispatch ran Bailey’s name through their system and it came back that he was wanted on a parole warrant. Deputy Smith, along with Deputies Cannon and Jewell, met on Highway 4, just outside of Cove. As Smith drove to a local business, Cannon drove toward the Oklahoma state line and sighted Bailey. Smith pulled Bailey over at the old Cove school and approached the vehicle. As Smith approached, Bailey stuck his head and arm out of the window and asked Deputy Smith, “What do you want?” After refusing to exit the vehicle and yelling expletives at Deputies Smith and Jewell, Bailey sped off, initiating the pursuit on Highway 4 West. Approximately two miles down the road, Deputy Cannon had positioned his patrol unit in the road in an attempt to stop the fleeing subject. However, Cannon had to quickly leave the roadway when Bailey attempted to intentionally hit the patrol unit. Just a little further down the road, Bailey stopped in the middle of the road, and Deputy Jewell pulled his vehicle in front of the subject’s car, only to have Bailey almost collide with him. All three units continued the pursuit into Oklahoma. During the pursuit while speeds were clocked at over 100 mph, deputies witnessed Bailey continuously reaching into the passenger floorboard. He also grabbed an American flag from the passenger side and threw it out of the driver window before ‘flipping off’ the deputies. Twice during the pursuit, Bailey “locked up his brakes in an attempt to get pursuing units to rear end him causing an accident,” Smith’s report states. When the vehicles reached the Mountain Fork Bridge, after an 11.9 mile pursuit, Bailey stopped his vehicle and stepped out of the car with a gun and began to walk west on the bridge. Deputy Jewell gave commands to Bailey via his PA system to put the gun down. “Bailey continued to walk away from us and was drinking a beer,” the report said. After walking approximately 100 yards more, Bailey laid the gun down and took a few steps from it before turning and kicking the gun off of the bridge. At this point, Deputy Cannon was XT1 able to apprehend the subject and they awaited Oklahoma Highway Patrol to take LAWN TRACTOR custody of Bailey. Premium foot-operated hydrostatic transmission. 18-25 HP Cub Cadet-certified When Bailey was tested for blood alcohol content, his level was a .086, well above Kohler engines. STARTING AT the legal limit. Deputy Cannon also collected the gun from under the bridge where $1,499.99 Bailey had kicked it. It was found with the barrel pointing up and the butt of the gun was stuck in the ground. There were three rounds of ammunition found in the gun, one being in the chamber. More ammunition was found inside the vehicle. Polk County is requesting warrants for Reckless Driving, Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (2 counts), Fleeing, and Possession of Firearm by Certain XT2 Persons, all felonies. Law enforcement will also seek misdemeanor charges of DWI, LAWN TRACTOR Suspended Drivers License, Operating a Motor Vehicle with no Liability Insurance, and Exclusive Performance Package including more powerful Cub-Cadet-certified Kohler Improper Use of Tag, Title, or Registration.

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news

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Valentine Couple

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

led us to foster parenting,” smiled Betty. Over the next 48 years, the Brewers would have three biological children and would care for 504 foster children. Yes, 504 children came in and out of their home and lives in just under five decades. Betty and Pete glow when they speak of the children that have touched their lives and as they tell stories of all the ones who still keep in touch and still call them mom and dad. “We hear from our foster children all over the state of Arkansas and beyond. When we retired and moved back to Arkansas from Texas, we had been here 15 years and got a phone call. The girl on the other end said ‘did you ever live in Dallas, Texas and were you a foster parent?’ and sure enough, it was one of our girls. It was so good to hear from her,” Betty said. At a young age, Pete lost his mother and he tells stories of he and his brothers being raised by their single father, and a precious sister that took on the role of mother. Pete and Betty insured that so many over the years never went without a parent. “Them days were definitely not what they are now. My momma died when I was just a baby and dad raised us kids by himself and you can just imagine what we were like. It was a hard life for us kids but we were mean,” laughed Pete. So what is the secret to a seventy-year marriage in today’s world? Pete and Betty both have their own take. “I never did have a worry, she always beat me to it,” Pete laughed. “I ain’t had but two women in my life,” he continued, “my wife and my sister. I picked Betty because she never was like the others. I ain’t sayin’ she’s perfect, but I wouldn’t pick any other. I didn’t see in her what I seen in those other girls. I could hear those other mothers and daddies when we’d go somewhere and I didn’t hear about her like those others. I knew she was a good one.” Betty said, “I have a good man. I’ve seen the men today and he is exceptional. I depend on him for a lot of things and he depends on me for a lot of things. That’s what you do as man and wife. Don’t try to make them over. You didn’t marry someone you needed to make over. Let God make the direction. We were active with the church, working for the Lord, and with the children. If you’re close to God and you wait on Him to tell you, you don’t make any mistakes. We waited on Him to tell us and it has lasted. And too many times in a marriage it’s, ‘I want it my way’, but that’s not true, it’s our way. Share and listen to the other person. He’s always allowed me to say how I feel and I allow him to say it too.”

Polar Plunge Sets New Location E

ach year, people gather around to watch or participate in the bone chilling activity called the Polar Plunge. Polar Plunge is a fundraiser in which individuals and teams take the plunge into various bodies of water, typically cold water to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Arkansas. As seen in previous years, many people dress up in crazy outfits before taking the plunge, making the event colorful and fun. Mena’s Polar Plunge 2016 is scheduled for Saturday, February 27, in a new location at the Pine Bowl pool in Mena. Registration begins at 12 p.m. and the plunge will take place at 1 p.m. There is a minimum donation to participate in the activity. Awards will be presented to the individual and team with the best costumes and also for the individual and team that raised the most money. All proceeds benefit Special Olympics Arkansas. For more information, contact Elizabeth at 870-784-3822 or Tammie at 479-394-8165. Political Ad Paid for by Debbie Scott

obituaries

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

................................................................................................................................ KERRIE JEAN CHAPPELL Kerrie Jean Chappell, age 46, went home to Jesus on Feb 2, 2016. Kerrie was born in Dallas, TX, on Oct 10, 1969. She was one of God’s special children, born profoundly retarded with several other physical disabilities. None of that kept her from experiencing a full and joyous life. Kerrie was always in the center of her family’s many activities. She started school at age 3 at Helping Hands School for the Disabled in Irving, TX. Kerrie never learned to speak, but she learned to crawl at age 3 and walk at age 6. Until then, she was always carried in the arms of her loving parents and siblings. Kerrie attended special education classes in Grapevine, TX, and received her special ed diploma in 1991 at age 21, to a standing ovation from the entire Grapevine High School graduating class. Kerrie’s loving parents, Fred and Pauline Chappell, and her 7 brothers and sisters never let Kerrie’s disabilities hold her back. Kerrie loved to play in the family pool, and amazed everyone by how long she could hold her breath under water. She would eventually swim in the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea on her family’s many travels. Kerrie traveled more and experienced more than many people with full abilities. She went down into Carlsbad Caverns and up the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. She stood on the edge of the Grand Canyon, saw Yosemite Falls and Mt Rushmore, and watched

Old Faithful blow. She traveled the Ozarks and the Ouachitas, the Blue Ridge and the Smokies, the Rockies and the Tetons, and crossed the Sierra Nevadas. She rode every ride at Six Flags and went to Disney World 4 times. She went on 10 cruises with her family, and traveled the beaches of Mexico, Jamaica, Cayman, Belize, and the Bahamas. She traveled to Branson and Crystal Falls with the youth at Board Camp Baptist Church, where she dearly loved and was loved by everyone. Kerrie was a shining example of what people with disabilities can do when they are loved and given the opportunities they deserve. She was adored by her parents and her 7 siblings, and was the ﬁrst playmate for each of her 10 nieces and nephews. She loved sweets, and if she could have spoken, her advice would have been, “Eat lots of dessert, always make it chocolate, and eat it ﬁrst!” She is survived by, her dear Mama, Pauline Chappell of Mena; sister Vickie Chappell of Mena; sister Debbie Chappell Addy of Mena; brother Steve Chappell of Denver, CO; sister Connie Chappell Millhollon and husband David of Gun Barrel City, TX; sister Bettie Chappell Chamberlin of Wills Point, TX; sister Laurie Chappell of Cumby, TX; her nieces and nephews, Phillip Addy and wife Sarah, Michael Addy and wife Courtney, Daniel Addy, Shannon Millhollon, Brandon Chappell, Elliot Chamberlin, Rachel Addy, Heather Millhollon, Emmet Chamberlin, Eland Chamberlin; and her 3 great-nieces, Aurora Addy, Lydia Addy and Summer Chamberlin. Kerrie was preceded to Heaven by, her Daddy, Fred Chappell; and her brother, David Chappell.

DAVID LEE WALKER Mr. David Lee Walker, age 71, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, Febraury 2, 2016 at his home in Mena. He was born to the late Dewey Lee Walker and the late Florence Smedley on October 9, 1944 in Mena, Arkansas. He was married to Cloma Jackson and was of the Prebyterian faith. Mr. Walker worked for many years at the Hiland Dairy but loved ﬁshing and working in the yard during his time off and was a Hog fan, enjoying Razorback Basketball. He was much loved by his family who will miss him very much. He is survived by, wife, Cloma Walker of the home; children, Todd Walker of Ft. Smith, Crystal Walker, Rodney Walker of Oklahoma City, Richard “Rick” Walker of Fayetteville and Nick Walker of Goshen; grandchildren, Stephen Walker of San Diego, Austin Walker of Fayetteville, Sean Walker of San Diego, Aerin Walker of Conway; brother, Charles Odom of Conroe. He was preceded in death by, his parents, Dewey and Florence Walker and a brother, Larry Walker. Mr. Walker was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A memorial service was held Saturday, February 6, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel.

STEVEN RAY WILLSON Steven Ray Willson, age 65, passed away following a long

battle with cancer on Monday, January 18, 2016 in Houston, Texas. He was born on October 3, 1951 in Davenport, Iowa to Ray and Dolores Willson. In 1976 he married Gail Martin and together they raised five children. He spent 20 years in the United States Air Force, traveling in and outside the U.S. before retiring in 1991 as a Senior Master Sergeant. Utilizing the skills and experience gained in the military, he continued working for many years at Koch Industries Inc. and MSI Services in Wichita, Kansas and at US Motors and Rich Mountain Community College in Mena, Arkansas. He also served as Fire Chief and then Director at Board Camp Rural Volunteer Fire Department in Arkansas. Steve never knew a stranger and thoroughly enjoyed each job and every person he met. He loved the community of Mena and considered his home there his “little piece of Heaven.” He loved fishing, wood working in his shop at home, Sudoku and driving his MG. He is survived by, his five children, Altaira, Ambre, Sheri, Craig and Mark; his sisters Lynne and Julie and his mother Dolores. He is preceded in death by, his wife, Gail and father, Ray. A memorial service will be held for Steve and Gail at First Presbyterian Church in Mena, AR on February 20, 2016 at 1p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the RMCC Foundation Maintenance Fund, the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society or the Board Camp Rural Volunteer Fire Department in Steve’s name and to Alzheimer’s Arkansas Programs and Services in Gail’s name.

January 6, 2016

Obituaries are avaiMyPulseNews.com lable online at • Immediately posted/updated when notified by funeral home

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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:

We have received numerous requests from readers and listeners on the candidates’ positions on the current issues facing the Polk County Detention Center. So, in an effort to educate voters, we posed the following questions to each of the candidates. Because of our space limitations, responses to each question were limited to 200 words and were not edited for grammar or spelling. We thank the candidates for their voluntary participation.

Milham: I was in support of the general idea of a new facility due to the constraints of the current jail not having room for expansion and the updates that were required to bring into compliance. I believed that a new facility made sense looking into the future but I could not fully support it as was proposed. Sawyer: I fully supported the Polk County Quorum Courts decision to allow the Citizens of Polk County to decide if they wanted to pass a sales tax to fund a new Polk County Detention Center. The Citizens of Polk County decided that they did not believe passing a sales tax was our best option. I work for the people of Polk County and I fully support their

February 10, 2016

decision.

problems.

Simmons: I did not support the tax

Sawyer: n/a Simmons: I didn’t support the new jail because I

to fund a new jail construction and I voted NO.

Milham: One problem that I saw was the high cost of the 100 inmate facility as proposed. I believe that 10 million was too much of a tax burden on our citizens and a 50 inmate facility would be sufficient to meet our needs. The new facility would then have had sufficient room for expansion in the future if needed then. I also believe that the goal of the current administration to fill up a 100 person facility was not in line with the wishes of most people. As law enforcement we need to work smarter instead of just building a bigger facility for people to go and sit there. First we have to be responsible with what we have and put as many of the inmates to work as possible. If elected as your sheriff I will aggressively find ways for inmates to work and repay for their crimes committed against our citizens. Jail should not be a place of rest for them while the hard working citizens of this county are paying for their keep. Taking away someone’s freedom is punishment in itself, but we have the highest recidivism rate of any nation and I believe that we can do more to make jail a place where debts are repaid and in return a place where a person is less likely to return to, further reducing one of the claimed current jail

felt the cost and size was excessive. We are taxed enough as it is. I heard several different figures as to what the cost would be and for me, there were too many unanswered variables. There were numerous locations that were looked at getting closer to the vote that should have been decided long before it went to the people. Not knowing if the land was going to be donated or knowing what the land would cost for the project was not good. Should have been better planning before the process got started.

Milham: Since the jail tax has now failed twice I would like for an estimate to be obtained for the cost to bring the current jail into compliance and then I will ask our quorum court to provide the funds to bring into compliance. I know that it will take time to save the needed money to accomplish this and it will be difficult, but this is what we all have to do with our personal budgets to live within our means and it will have to be done on our county government level also. The only other option would be after an estimate is obtained to bring the current jail into compliance, then this cost could be compared against the cost of building a

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 new facility. The new facility would be more in line with our current needs than what was previously proposed. If the cost comparisons are close enough to each other then it may be worthwhile to consider, due to the benefit of the new facility meeting our needs well into the future. I believe that this would not be able to be done without at least a temporary tax and I would have to have clear and compelling evidence that the citizens wanted this before I would support another tax proposal. Sawyer: I believe that our best option now is to update and add onto our current facility. I believe that adding onto and updating our current facility will be the most cost effective way to keep the Polk County Detention Center open. It will meet the new standards that the State of Arkansas has set for Detention Centers. It will also be acceptable to the budget conscious citizens of Polk County. Simmons: I support fixing the current jail we have. What concerns me is the fact that this jail was emptied after the tornado of 2009 and there was a construction crew working to get it fixed. I wish they would have fixed the issues then. The jail had to pass standards when it reopened, so what has happened in the last five years that has brought this issue to a head? I feel we need to make every effort to keep our current jail in compliance before asking the people to fund a new facility.

Milham: I have no official estimates for a new facility that would be more in line with what I believe fits our needs better, nor do I know if support exists from the citizens for this approach. As outlined above I believe that the first order is to obtain an estimate for the current facility renovation and possible expansion as a starting point. The county judge or quorum court are the ones with the authority to authorize a study of this and at this time I am not aware of any plans formerly proposed. Sawyer: n/a Simmons: I am not totally against a new facil-

TIM MILHAM

ity but I feel it needs to be within reason when it comes to cost and size. I think a 40-50 man cell would be sufficient with the ability to add on. But again, it all comes down to the people and what they want. I don’t have the ability to come up with estimates for new construction or rehabbing the current jail. To take those kinds of bids I would have to work with the Quorum Court and I’m not the current department head to be able to do it. As far as location, it needs to be as close to the court house as possible for safety reasons to get the prisoners to court. That’s why I really favor fixing the one we have. Example: The Kitchen needs a vent hood with fire suppression system. A 4’ hood complete with fire system averages less than 4,000 (new) plus installation. One step at a time is how we approach it.

Milham: Funding for this is the big question and will require much thought from the quorum court to budget the necessary funds to provide a facility for the sheriff’s office. I believe that we have a great county judge and quorum court and if the decision is made to proceed with updating the current jail then they will be the best team possible to accomplish this. I believe that they can budget and come up with the renovation funds, but the big question that everyone has to remember is that the money is limited and the sheriff’s office is only one part of the county government that they are required to budget for. Again this will take some time to accomplish as not to put undue strain on other county departments. If elected as sheriff I will work hard to help the quorum court in every way possible by providing my years of law enforcement experience and administrative experience gained with my present employer LHC Group. I plan on going straight to work and my goal is to assist the current administration if they allow and to have a workable plan in place before I take office in 2017, if elected. Sawyer: I have reviewed cost estimates for remodeling and renovating the current facility, current and projected Polk County income sources, and Polk County budgets. I believe that we can update

SCOTT SAWYER

MICKEY SIMMONS

our current facility using existing sources of revenue. I believe that this is the plan that the people of Polk County want and I believe that it can be done. Simmons: It is up to the Quorum court to come up with funding. They are the ones who vote and decide on the sheriff’s office budget. As far as the department, the only thing we can do is be conservative when it comes to the money allocated and do the best we can if we don’t have support of the JP’s and County Judge. One of the other things we can do is work with our judges and prosecutors to try and get outstanding fines paid. There is a LARGE amount of money that is outstanding. Police don’t write tickets or make arrests for revenue and we WILL NOT do that on my watch but we need to work with the people who are behind and coming up with ideas to get them caught up. Plus, it would help a lot of people who have lost their driver’s license get them back and help end the vicious cycle that some people fall in.

Milham: I will make a top priority to make sure that the outlying communities receive the service that they deserve. Places such as the south part of the county away from the county seat have not had proper law enforcement presence at times in the past and I will make sure that we serve the entire county with an increased presence. Another top priority of mine will be to serve as a resource to our schools and young people. I have a real desire to reach out to the children who are not being raised in in good situations and do not have good family role models in their lives. In my law enforcement career I have spent many hours in our school system and worked with children in many different settings. I will continue to be available to teach programs in the schools and to work with our youth. Our youth are our leaders of tomorrow and our investment in them today does pay dividends. Sawyer: 1) Serving the Citizens of Polk County efficiently and effectively will always be my top priority. 2) Property crimes and drug use/abuse have a symbiotic relationship. Reducing one will help reduce the other. I support a multi-pronged approach

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

February 10, 2016

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 to combatting drug use and will make this a top priority for my administration. Education, intervention, drug court, probation, and incarceration. 3) Working with and educating our children has been a hallmark of my Law Enforcement career. As a DARE instructor, Smart Choices instructor, and Be a Winner instructor, I’ve spent countless hours teaching area children. I’ve helped create and implement SRO programs in area schools, trained school administrators and staff in the RAVE panic alarms and active shooter protocol, and helped train local law enforcement in school incident response. I will

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training can come from the Criminal Justice Institute, Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy and others. c) Rebuilding relations with the community and have an excellent working relationship with all departments and agencies. The safety of the people of Polk County is important me and making it a team effort with everyone involved including the community is a top priority. My 33 years experience and working with seven different police departments, six prosecuting attorneys and five different judges on a regular basis shows that I can work with people for a common goal.

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continue to work hard to keep the children of Polk County safe. Simmons: Top three issues - a) We’re going to do our best to provide coverage 24 hours a day. b) Cases that are getting reported to the sheriff’s office are going to be worked and in a timely manner. Every attempt will be made to solve all crimes and present the prosecuting attorney with quality cases for prosecution. It is important to me that the conviction rate has an increase through quality work done by the deputies. Quality work comes from providing quality training to the officers. Such

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

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February 10, 2016

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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

February 10, 2016

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

when she finds a Gemelli hand-made amethyst he countdown is on to find the necklace from The Main Street Shoppe hidden perfect way to show your love on inside her napkin. a day that has been set aside for just Just when she thinks that your Valentine that… Valentine’s Day, February 14. Ok celebration is about to come to an end, guys - even if she tells you that she doesn’t need you can surprise her with chocolate covall that… trust us, this is your chance to score ered OREO balls from the Creative Touch big brownie points ESPECIALLY if she says she Florist – just be sure to get your order in before February 10! doesn’t need all that! As Sunday rolls around - the big day - she’ll be certain that you First off, this year’s Valentine’s Day falls on Sunday so it is a prime opportunity to make it a have already celebrated Valentine’s and celebrated well at that when weekend affair and why only celebrate one day when you can stretch the celebration out to two… or even three days? you surprise her with an adorable mix bouquet from Stewman’s Flower Shop in a unique red jar complete with a Half the fun of receiving flowers is receiving them at school or work so all the gal pals can teddy bear… because no girl ever outgrows teddy bears. Then she can be treated to an early evening dinner of see how sweet their man is so send her Janssen Avenue’s Pair of a 10 oz. prime rib and jumbo shrimp at Mena’s Limetree RestauHearts Bouquet on Friday, February 12! Include a gift bag with one rant before heading up the Talimena Drive to watch a splendid of The Fair Lady’s new Illume Candles, with scents she’ll love and Ouachita Mountain sunset while sitting on the Queen’s front ultra sheek designs that she’ll love decorating with. porch. And just so she feels as spoiled as you are quite certain On Saturday, take advantage of Stache’s month-long celebration of couples and enshe is, you can present her with the “Keys to Your Heart” necklace that you purchased at the MRHS Gift Shop. joy their 2 for $30 Valentine Date Night special that includes 1 appetizer and your choice of 2 entrees from the menu (excluding steaks). She’ll be the envy of the restaurant

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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

February 10, 2016

The Mena Polk County Senior Center is proud to present an EVENING OF VALENTINE DELIGHT, February 13th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Center will be serving a lasagna meal complete with salad, garlic bread and cherry cobbler for dessert for just $6 per person. Gator & Friends will provide live music for entertainment. Bring extra dollars for a “Rent A Date.” For more information, call 394-5459.

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Valentine Inspired Candles & New Spring Arrivals!

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I with chocolate, flowers, you name it... Give us your requests and we will

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Includes 1 appetizer & your choice of any 2 entrees on our menu (excluding steaks)

Live Romantic Music by The Piano Man from NWA . . . Friday & Saturday Only

family

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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POLK COUNTY BIRTHS

#LOL

AT MENA REGIONAL HEALTH

SYSTEM

Samantha and Charles Baker, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on February 1st.

Valentine’s Day Jokes • What did one boat say to the other? “Are you up for a little row-mance?” • What did the guy with the broken leg say to his nurse? “I’ve got a crutch on you.”

Tina Huber, of Mena, is the proud mother of a baby boy, born on February 4th.

• What do you say to your single friends on Valentine’s Day? Happy Independence Day!

Trisha and Jordan Hostetler, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on February 5th.

• My high-school English teacher was well known for being a fair, but hard, grader. One day I received a B minus on a theme paper. In hopes of bettering my grade and in the spirit of the valentine season, I sent her an extravagant heart-shaped box of chocolates with the pre-printed inscription: “BE MINE.” The following day, I received in return a valentine from the teacher. It read: “Thank you, but it’s still BE MINE-US.”

Send us your 1st & 100th Birthday, Family Reunions, Anniversaries, Engagements/Weddings, Birth Announcements and we will print them for FREE!

Great Escapes Near Home

(StatePoint) The weather may be chilly, but that’s no excuse to hunker in. Many may find themselves fantasizing about a getaway in chilly weather. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make your escape, even right outside your door. Nearby Getaways - Faraway travel may not be in the cards this season, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get out of town. Nearby activities and locations that are new to you can help you feel you are truly getting “away,” without the burden of making complicated arrangements. From charming bed and breakfasts where you can explore the local countryside and hiking trails, to the art, culture, shopping and nightlife of a neighboring city, there are plenty of ways to make an escape locally. And you can miss the crowds by opting for sites off the beaten path. Try a Taste of the Bahamas - Food and drink is closely tied to culture, and nothing is more transporting than a great meal and cocktails. Gather friends for a Caribbean escape in your own town. Experience the flavors of the region at a restaurant, such as Bahama Breeze Island Grille, which specializes in Caribbean-inspired chicken, seafood and steaks. Toast to good times with tropical cocktails like the Bahama Mama, with Cruzan Coconut, Bacardi Black and Castillo Silver Rums, Banana Liqueur, and pineapple and orange juices. For locations, visit www.BahamaBreeze.com. Try Something New - Be bold and try something new in your own local area. Have you always wanted to learn the Tango? Is art a passion but not a hobby? Take a cooking class. Attend a lecture at a museum. Don’t put these bucket list items off any longer. Now is the perfect time for a getaway from your comfort zone, explore all that life has to offer, and maybe even discover new hidden talents. Whether you travel far or stay at home, this season, find a way to make an escape.

January 6, 2016

CUTEST PET PIC Spot

10 week old Spot sitting in top of the tree waiting for Santa. Owned by Evan & Jacee of Cove AR 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:

Ouachita Equine Clinic Serving all your small & large animal needs. Hours: Mon. Tues. Wed., and Fri. 8am-5pm • Closed on Thurs.

479-394-7185

Randy J. Burgess D.V.M. 2920 Hwy. 71 N, Mena, AR 71953

Spring Conference “Trying to be a disciple of Jesus Christ is not the same thing as training to be His Disciples.” - Bruce Demarest

March 5, 2016 Grace Bible Church Mena, Arkansas

Making Disciples Jesus’ Way

Conference Distinctives

1. A Contextual Perspective A refreshing discovery of what of what we may have missed 2. Framework Focused Organizes knowledge and practice in a useful and memorable way 3. Personally Applicable Take ownership of your own spiritual growth Develop confidence in providing guidance to others

is presented by Doug Greenwold, the Senior Teaching Fellow for Preserving Bible Times (PBT). Doug helps us dig deeper into the pages of scripture by using the whole range of the cultural background of the Bible. CDs, DVDs and publications will be available at this seminar. PBT is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Biblical Truth. For more information about Grace Bible Church PBT, visit www.preservingbibletimes.org. For more information about this seminar or any other event, please call 479-394-4092.

1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena, AR 71953 www.gbcmena.org

citizen

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Jennifer Brewer - Answering ‘The CALL’ M

BY RENEE HENDRIX

reneehendrix38@yahoo.com

ena native Jennifer Brewer is one of those blessed individuals that surrendered to a calling on her life at a very young age. She’s been afforded opportunities to serve on numerous international mission trips as well as serving her own local community and has recently embarked with a new CALL that can potentially change countless children and families, and hopefully, generations. She will quickly tell you from a very young age, she felt the call upon her life to serve God, to love with a God “love” to the broken. Brewer was born the the eldest of two to Keith Rose and Cheryl Shogren. With her family owning Rose Aircraft for the last 50 years, Brewer stated that both she and her sister spent much time at the airport. Her parents later divorced and at the age of 4, her father married Lisa (Johnson). With the marriage of Lisa, Brewer gained another sister and later, a new baby brother. Several years in the future, two other siblings were added through adoption to the Rose family. The Rose family endured the loss of the patriarch of their family after a very short but hard fought battle with cancer, but Brewer shared that it was during that difficult time along with a looming legal battle that she was able to witness her father’s submission of his life to the Lord. The family began attending Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. In 8th grade, Brewer plugged in to a bible study with Victor Rowell that gave her the opportunity to take her first mission trip to Nicaragua in the summer. Brewer states, “I saw true poverty for the first time.” She said it genuinely broke her heart for the people she saw and at the same time, Brewer recalls what struck her most in a nation with so little was the love of God the people had. She said they would enter into worship not thinking of their lack. Brewer spoke of how she enjoyed “getting her hands dirty” to help with various construction projects. She admitted, as many do after returning from mission trips, that she experienced a period where she had to re-adjust to ‘normal living.’ Unknown to Brewer at the time, God was conditioning her heart for the path He had for her. Brewer has since been on 6 overseas mission trips, including Nicaragua, Mexico and Morocco. She feels these mission trips have forever changed her life. Brewer attended an internship out of state after her high school graduation but later returned home where she volunteered for CMA (Christian Motorcyclist Association) and reconnected with a young man she had met years ago at the same Bible study that served as a pivotal point in her life, his name was Daniel Brewer. It started as friends reconnecting and encouraging each other in their walks in the Lord, but later developed into love. They were married in August of 2002. They have since been blessed with four children; Sophie, 10, Grace, 8, Ellie, 6 and little Caleb has just turned 2 years old. Brewer opted to be a stay at home mother with her children and proved to be a good decision especially with Caleb being born with club feet and the treatment he needed to receive. Brewer says, “I love being a mom and a wife even as overwhelming as that can be at times.” Brewer worked diligently during the aftermath of the F3 tornado of 2009, which devastated much of Mena. She worked with tornado recovery and Polk County Long Term Recovery Committee. Brewer said she was once again able to get her “hands dirty’. She went in initially just to cut up onions for the meals being delivered, and ended up being thrown in the logistics of helping families. She said she loved meeting other men and women from different denominations, coming together to lend a loving hand to their community. Brewer was grateful the Lord used her once again to reach out to those in need and was given the opportunity to serve others. In the Spring of 2015, Brewer first learned from her cousin about the CALL. Then her parents attended the Governor’s Summit. They returned with heart breaking stories about children in foster care in the state of Arkansas. Brewer knew she wanted to be a part of such a worthy cause and make a difference. The CALL is a state wide organization designed to recruit, train and support Christian foster homes. After much prayer she became the County Coordinator for the CALL in Polk County. The CALL will host a Community Launch Celebration on February 19th at 6 pm at the National Guard Armory on Morrow Street and Brewer invites anyone with a heart for children to attend to learn more. After 13 years of being married to her husband Daniel Brewer, she made the comment, ”I can’t imagine doing life with anyone else. I love being married to him and feel like we are teammates in parenting and serving the Lord together.” When asked what she enjoys most about living in Mena, Brewer said, “Living close to family is a true gift. Our children are blessed to be surrounded by all of their grandparents, great grandparents and many cousins here in Mena.” Epitomizing the scripture she said holds as the cornerstone of her life, Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with you God.” Jennifer Brewer has always strived to live her life according to God’s will and direction.

Valentine's Day Specials

11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Daily To-go orders welcome Call 870-387-3302 5563 Hwy 71 S. • Cove

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February 10, 2016

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Peachtree Assisted Living - Providing a Quality Life P

BY RENEE HENDRIX

reneehendrix38@yahoo.com

eachtree Assisted Living was established in Mena with the hopes of bringing quality care to the people in Polk County. Peachtree is currently one of six Arkansas assisted living facilities owned by the Shephard Group. They currently have 54 patients living in their facility and have several open apartments for new residents. Carla Tenbrook has been with the Shephard Group as the Peachtree Executive Director since 2011. Carla stated that her favorite thing about her job is working with the residents, “You learn so much and they have so much to offer.” The mission of Peachtree is to provide an excelled quality of life for residents through trained, caring professional staff in a safe and secure environment. Tenbrook said that there are always opportunities to volunteer or contribute to brighten the lives of its residents. Peachtree is particularly proud of the commitment of their nursing staff that is available 7 days a week from 7 am- 7pm. They offer assistance with administering medication and daily living. They also provide transportation to doctor appointments and, of course, weekly trips to Walmart. In addition to serving three meals a day with an alternative meal option, Peachtree also offers weekly laundry pickup and cleaning of apartments as well as providing their residents with monthly calendar events and day trips. Security is always a major concern for residents and their families. Items such as a keypad to the outside enclosed courtyards are in place for an extra layer of security. With some residents suffering from the early stages of dementia, security is always a top priority of Peachtree. Peachtree also strives to provide a family environment with holiday celebrations and resident birthday parties every month. They also offer a monthly auction, which according to Tenbrook, can get very lively with the residents! Throughout the month they earn paper money by participating in activities and then when auction day rolls around, they can bid on the things they want. Tenbrook said that Peachtree has many opportunities for volunteers, explaining that with all of the responsibilities the staff carries, time quickly becomes a precious commodity and does not always afford them the opportunity to participate in fun activities as much as they would like to. Tenbrook added that the residents do enjoy new faces to visit with and she invites members of the community with a particular talent or activity idea they would like to share with the residents to contact the Peachtree Activities Director Lauren Gage. All ideas are welcomed according to Tenbrook as she shared the story behind one of Peachtree’s newest programs, gar“Serving your families with dening, which came about after a resident approached them with the idea. He now is a proud owner of raised Dignity & Care for over 80 years” gardens boasting a jalapeno pepper & tomato patch… much to the delight of the residents! One of the activities Peachtree enjoys offering is their “mystery drive.” The residents really enjoy having the Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent Member of the National Funeral opportunity to take a drive and have the chance to look around and enjoy the outdoors. They have been to Directors Assoc. Queen Wilhelmina but Tenbrook said they hopefully will be planning more trips to Mt. Magazine and Petit Jean 611 Janssen, Mena, AR State Parks. (479) 394-1310 Tenbrook did mention, one of the things the residents struggle with is having enough toiletries and other extra purchases. Most are limited with funds from Medicaid through the assisted living waiver program. Tenbrook said that in many instances, they will only get $66 every month as their own money, and as she explained, that does not go very far and will have to go toward their phone, co-pays for their medications and other expenses. Peachtree welcomes donations of toiletries to assist their residents. With a Director and staff committed to doing the right thing, it is easy to see what the Peachtree’s motto Like us on Facebook! is “Where love and care go hand in hand.”

Bruce’s

Appliance Service Repairs done in your home.

Bruce Erickson, Owner

479-234-3570

ADVERTISE HERE

An Affordable Plan for Everyone

Commercial and Residential

Termites • Household Pests Bed Bugs • Fire Ants Polk County 479-234-2038 Scott County 479-637-6064

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Manufacturer of Quality CNC Parts

479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344

FULL ATV SERVICE & REPAIR

Hwy 71N/Hwy 88E Junction (Behind Terminix) 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY

Full Line Drugstore Large Selection of Gifts

FOR ONLY $25 AJanuary WEEK 6, 2016

CALL 479-243-9600

Beasley-Wood Geyer-Quillin Funeral Home

479-394-4535 Open 7 Days a Week

710 4th Street Mena, AR

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

school

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Louise Durham’s Super Students SUBMITTED BY MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Louise Durham Elementary has selected their Super Students for the week of February 8-12. Top - Victoria Stearman, Trinity Aviles, Katherine Barfield, Kyle Baker, Gabby Cross, James Harmon, Brandon Dong, Jordan Busby. Middle - Journey Evans, Tessa Williams, Tiffiny Cavelli, Ruby Hopper, Makayla Strange, Katherine Swann, Kaycee Harris. Front - Ashlyn Short, Acelynn Butterfield, Annlyn Hughes, Sileana Hicks, Eleanor Brewer.

MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/15 NO SCHOOL TUESDAY 2/16 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/17 Biscuit, sausage patty, fruit, juice, milk THURSDAY 2/18 Blueberry Elfin Muffin, fruit, juice, milk FRIDAY 2/19 Sausage & pancake on a stick, fruit, juice, milk

MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/15 NO SCHOOL TUESDAY 2/16 Main: Hamburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, french fries, sidekick, milk; Choices: Cheese nachos, jalapenos, Mango Splash Juice, Mexican corn, side kick, milk; or Chef Salad WEDNESDAY 2/17 Main: Vegetable soup w/ crackers, toasted cheese sandwich, salad, baby carrots, fruit, milk; Choices: Chili dog, baked beans, coleslaw, baby carrots, fruit, milk; or Soup THURSDAY 2/18 Main: Chicken, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, winter blend vegetables, hot, roll, fruit, milk; Choices: Salisbury steak, mashed tomato w/ gravy, winter blend vegetables, hot roll, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad FRIDAY 2/19 Main: Taco salad, ranch style beans, fruit, milk; Choices: Southwest chicken tornado, ranch style beans, salad, fruit, milk; or Baked Potato ACORN SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/15 NO SCHOOL TUESDAY 2/16 Mini donuts, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal WEDNESDAY 2/17 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk THURSDAY 2/18 Biscuit, sausage w/ gravy, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal FRIDAY 2/19 Blueberry muffin, fruit, juice, milk; Choice: Cereal

Mena Schools Honor Cancer Awareness Week February 16-19, 2016

ypes of Cancer Tuesday - Wear the color that supports a family memT ber or friend who is battling or has battled cancer. Awareness Wednesday - Wear purple. Purple is the awareness color of all

types of cancers. The students are encouraged to wear their purple Bearcats Purple Relay bracelets. Ty Thacker Thursday - Wear orange, a tie, or a Ty Thacker t-shirt. Orange is the awareness color of Leukemia. Fight Like a Girl Friday - Wear pink. Pink is the awareness color of Breast Cancer.

ACORN SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/15 NO SCHOOL TUESDAY 2/16 BBQ rib sandwich, oven french fries, veggie sticks, fruit, milk WEDNESDAY 2/17 Chicken fried steak sandwich, tater babies, lettuce/tomato, fruit, milk THURSDAY 2/18 Meatloaf, corn, whole grain bread, salad, fruit, milk FRIDAY 2/19 Beef nacho, lettuce, tomato, salsa, pinto beans, fruit, milk COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/15 NO SCHOOL TUESDAY 2/16 Fruit frudel, craisins, apple juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/17 Cereal, orange wedges, cherry juice, milk THURSDAY 2/18 Breakfast Bagel, apple wedges, orange juice, milk FRIDAY 2/19 Super donut, fruit cup, apple juice, milk

COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/15 NO SCHOOL TUESDAY 2/16 Chicken nuggets, baked beans, broccoli & cheese, mandarin oranges, roll, milk WEDNESDAY 2/17 Frito chili pie, tossed salad w/ dressing, pears, cinnamon roll, milk THURSDAY 2/18 Hamburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, french fries, peaches, chocolate chip cookie, milk FRIDAY 2/19 Chicken wrap, tossed salad w/ dressing, corn, strawberries/bananas, milk

This weekly info proudly sponsored by:

Check out our school news tab at

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GEORGE S. DAVIS STATE FARM AGENT SINCE 1964

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

479.394.4521 Res. 479.394.1895

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Acorn’s Got Talent Announces Winners

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

school

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corn Schools held their Acorn’s Got Talent show on Friday, February 5th, and proved that Acorn really does have talent! Age categories were Elementary, Middle School, and High School levels and each group contained singers, dancers, a magician, pet tricks, and a dynamic drum routine. In the elementary category, Nicole Philpot stole the show with her hulla-hoop and dance routine to the popular kid song “Gummy Bear”. Never dropping the hulla-hoop, Philpot danced her way through the hearts of every attendant, including the judges, and grabbed first place. Coming in second place was Kora Carter who danced and Sophie Strasner placed third with a violin solo. In the middle school competition, Halli Holland sang a beautiful version of Cam’s Burning House, a cappella style. Lexi Dilbeck performed a graceful rendition of See, He Comes by Sovereign Grace Music with her flowing dance routine and placed second. There was a tie for third place, with Josh Tilley and Abbie Nance performing a duet and Braxlie Strother, Corryn and Halli Holland being a triple threat performance. The high school competition was rather fierce with some of the competitors performing in more than one skit. First place was taken by Caleb Tilley and Hunter Myers for Tilley’s performance of Cinema by Skrillex on the drums while Hunter played backup with a triangle and a head-banging rhythm with a cowbell. In second place, Tessa Kesterson and Caleb Tilley performed a duet and Nick Lyle placed third performing a solo musical piece.

January 6, 201

Please allow me

to serve the people of Polk County with the understanding and support that is needed during a difficult time.

VOTE: RICHARD MYHAND POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY RICHARD MYHAND

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February 10, 2016

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Hughes Wins Regional Literacy Contest news@mypulsenews.com BY MELANIE BUCK

iylee Hughes is a 10-year old student in the 4th grade at Holly Harshman Elementary and has an uncanny love for history. A love that has made her a winner, in more than one way. Hughes said Ms. Riley is her homeroom and literacy teacher and before Christmas break had given the class an assignment to pick a book for a book report. “Ms. Riley said we needed to have read it before break ended so I went to the Polk County Public Library and got Mena’s Centennial History. I figured that everybody was going to do fiction books or non-fiction books about people and so I thought I would do something on a town. I like history and historical non-fiction so I chose Mena because it’s my hometown,” smiled Hughes. Hughes also explained that her dad is really into history and that’s where her love of the subject stems. “My dad and me went through it together, on some of the things I didn’t understand,” she said. Choosing what was most important out of all that history proved to be somewhat of a challenge. “I picked out what would give the most information about the book and focused on the founding of Mena and when the railroad moved out. I learned a lot of things that I did not know about Mena.” Hughes learned about where towns, parks, and streets received their names and how Mena boomed when the railroad was here and declined when it left out. As part of the assignment, Hughes had to write a summary and make a literacy board. Her classroom had a contest and she was one of four winners; two fiction winners and two non-fiction winners. Then, the whole 4th grade had a contest and Hughes won again, with three others; two fiction and two non-fiction). After that, they moved on to the DeQueen Mena Education Cooperative contest where only two winners would be announced, one fiction winner and one non-fiction winner. After having to not only present her literacy board, Hughes also had to speak about her book and give an oral summary. However, her love of history and her dedication to her work paid off. “I was the only first place winner from Mena,” smiled a proud Hughes. Hughes claimed the trophy for the regional winner of the non-fiction category. Hughes has aspirations to be a singer when she grows up and would like to attend the University of Arkansas. Her advice on success to those younger than her: “They should choose history because not a lot of people would choose history. It’s really cool. I enjoyed learning about Arthur Stillwell; how he worked so hard, even though they sometimes hit rough spots and the railroad moved out, he kept trying. So I would tell them that even though they hit rough spots, they just have to keep on going.” Political Ad Paid for by friends and supporters of Scott Sawyer

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February 10, 2016

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Thursday, 2/11 • 11:15 a.m. – Caregiver meeting will be held at the Cossatot Senior Center. • 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. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00p.m. - The Sonlighters In Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. • 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – The First Assembly of God Distributes food at 2111 Sutherland or call 394-1229. • 5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th Street Ministries building. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. • 5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – women’s meeting – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy, 71, S., Mena. 479216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel music in the Daisy Room at Janssen Ave Florist. • 6:00 p.m. – Hatfield’s Lion’s Club meets at the Lions Club Field House. • 6:30 p.m. – Mena Chapter #243, Order of the Eastern Star meets at the Masonic Temple at 701 Port Arthur. Refreshments at 6:30; meeting at 7:00 p.m. • 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. • 7:00 p.m. – Polk County Genealogy Society meeting at the Polk County Library, 410 8th Street. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Cherry Hill Fire Department meets for a business meeting and training at the Fire Station. Friday, 2/12 • 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. • 11:45 a.m. – Valentine Lunch at the Cossatot Senior Center.

BEATS

• PCDC RECYCLES #1 AND #2 PLASTICS. These items are Accepted: All liquid dishwashing, shampoo, plastic soda, laundry detergent, vitamin and water bottles, milk jugs. Items Not Accepted includes: PVC plastic and clamshell food containers. Drop off at 205 S. Morrow St. in Mena, AR.

• 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. • 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – Project Unify Special Olympics Chili Supper Benefit will be held at the Mena High School Cafeteria. $5.00 or donation. • 5:00 p.m. – ABATE (Arkansas Bikers Aiming Toward Education) will be at Sonic Drive In for anyone interested in motorcycles. You don’t have to ride or be a member. Come and enjoy the fun. • 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 – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. Saturday, 2/13 • 8:15 a.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 Breakfast Bible Study, Lime Tree Restaurant, Public is invited. • 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Cossatot River State Park – Arkansas “The Natural State” Workshop (6 hours 30 mins) Meeting Place: Visitor Center’s Classroom. • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Ouachita Photography Club will meet at the Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Everyone is welcome. • 12:00 p.m. – The Ouachita Amateur Radio Association will have their club meeting at the Limetree Inn. Testing will be available. • 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Children’s Art Class at the Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street, for children 6 to 12 years old. There is a $2 fee per child to help cover the cost of supplies. Please call to reserve a spot for your child 479-394-3880. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 7:00 p.m. – Holly Grove Church in Grannis will have Gospel Music. • 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Valentine’s Dance at the Mena Elks Lodge. Richie Owens and 6-Mile Creek Band $6.00 members, $7.00 Guests. Proceeds going to local charities. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous - ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. 479-243-0297 or 479-216-4606. Sunday, 2/14 • 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 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, 2/15 • 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. • 5:30 p.m. – Republican Party meets at Polk County Library. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meet-

ing, 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. – 8:00 p.m. – AWANA Clubs meet at Grace Bible Church, Highway 71 North. • 6:30 p.m. – The Lady Ouachitas meet at Bear State Bank Main Branch for their monthly meeting. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Ouachita Beekeepers Association monthly meeting at Union Bank. Tuesday, 2/16 • 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 the Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Free lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen at Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk 43 (Fairground Road), Mena. 479-394-7404. Take-Out available. All are welcome. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters In Action Card Shop will be open at 3671Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch Library will be open. • 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weighins, 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. – The regular Hatfield Town Council meeting is at the Town Hall in Hatfield. • 6:30 p.m. – The monthly meeting of the Shady Fire and Rescue District 10 will be held at the Shady Community Center. • 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Bluegrass music at Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room. • 7:00 p.m. – The Dallas Valley R.V.F.D. meets for training at the Firehouse. • 7:00 p.m. – The Acorn Fire and Rescue meets at the Fire Department. • 7:00 p.m. – The Wickes V.F.W. Post #10484 will meet at the Wickes Community Center. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. 479-234-2887 or 479-2343043. Wednesday, 2/17 • 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 will meet at the Free Will Baptist Church on the corner of Petros and Cherry St. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open.

• 5:30 p.m. – RMCC Board of Trustees will hold their meeting in the RMCC Board Room. • 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 at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Inquiry classes into the Catholic Faith begins in the Parish Hall of St. Agnes Catholic Church at 203 8th St. There is no cost or obligation and anyone interested is invited to attend. Call 394-1017 or 394-5655 for more information.

January 6, 2016

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

sports

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Hines Named As “All-Star” O

BY LEANN DILBECK

editor@mypulsenews.com

ne Mena athlete has been named to the Arkansas High School Coaches Association’s (AHSCA) prestigious All-Star list, an accomplishment she is no stranger to. Brooke Hines, a Senior Ladycat, has been dedicated to the sport of volleyball from a very early age. Brooke is the daughter of Robby and Sherri Hines. Her mother, a former Ladycat herself, said that as soon as Brooke was old enough, she began playing around with a volleyball with her at home, “but it wasn’t until she was 13 that she started playing on a club team out of Fort Smith.” For three years, the family made the commitment of traveling two nights a week for practice in Fort Smith and then tournaments as far as Dallas, St. Louis, Kansas City, and of course, Arkansas. Brooke’s impressive volleyball career includes also playing for Velocity for two years. As a member of the Ladycat volleyball team that brought the first State Championship to Mena High School in 2014, the team was destined for success early on: 2012 District/Conference Champs, and State runners-up in 2013 and 2015. Brooke was named All Conference 1st Team in 2015 & 2016, All State in 2015 & 2016, Best Setter for 2015 and served as team captain her senior year. Brooke is also a success off the court, maintaining a 4.3 GPA and has simultaneously earned 23 college credits upon her high school graduation. As one might imagine, her father Robby is very proud of his daughter’s accomplishments, “She is a wonderful role model for her younger sister as well as the young girls who attend and play sports at Mena High School. As a young girl of 9 or 10 years old, she learned to play volleyball from her mother. We continued to take her to all sorts of camps and games to work on her skills. We have spent many nights on the road playing and returning from weekend games. Through it all she has remained an extraordinary student of both life and her game. She is one of the top in her class. With all of the success that Mena High School has had in volleyball, Brooke can truly say that she has left the Mena High School volleyball program even better than when she came!” If there is a volleyball gene, Brooke was certainly in line to receive it and absorbed the same passion for the sport as her mother. Sherri said, “I played volleyball for Mike Hobson and Karlene Hooker, whom I have the utmost respect.” This summer, Brooke will once again be playing in the same All-Star game her mother played in 24 years ago. Sherri said she always encouraged Brooke to give her all to the sport, “We always told her as parents, ‘God gives you the talent, we will give you the time, money… and take you anywhere you want to go, but always give 100% and when you are finished, hang it up.’” Brooke is grateful for her family’s support and those that have gone before her paving the way, “None of my successes would have happened without the big man above, my God! Isaiah 40:29 says, ‘He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might, He increases strength.’ My parents pushed me every step of the way… then my sister! She’s my biggest fan on and off the court. Thanks to the Ladycats before us for paving the way.” Despite being made offers to play in college, Brooke has made the decision to “just be a student” for the first time in several years. She’s eager to share her passion and knowledge of the game and is already investing in the next generation of volleyball athletes, presently coaching 13-1’s Mena Velocity team. She is instilling the same commitment to the sport as was taught to her by her mother and tells the kids, “When you just don’t want to go to practice, you’re tired… or you’re sore, push through. It will always pay off in the end!”

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SMITH

Polk County Circuit Clerk

8 years experience with Polk County Circuit Judge’s Office and Juvenile Probation Office 14 years experience with Bob Keeter, Attorney at Law I have the qualities to be your next Polk County Circuit Clerk. On March 1, 2016 vote experience and dedication. Your vote is appreciated!

HEROD & HEROD CPAs (formerly Allen Herod, CPA, PA)

Northside Shopping Center 479-394-7830

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Junior Bearcats’ Exceptional Season Acorn and Oden’s Showdown BY LEANN DILBECK Comes to an End editor@mypulsenews.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAM MAECHLER

The Acorn-Oden Showdown was played as Senior Night was celebrated on February 2nd at Acorn High School. Acorn reigned supreme in both the boys and girls games, besting Oden by a score of 58-29 in the girls’ game and a score of 61-41 in the boys game.

When Time Finally Runs Out

SERVICES:

• Bookkeeping • Compilations, Reviews and Contractor’s Licenses • Payroll Services

Book by Peter Bellone

Available on GoodReads.com & Amazon.com Give the gift of knowledge, pick up a copy of my book, When Time Finally Runs Out. Time is short; short enough that you will be amazed to learn “when time finally runs out.”

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January 6, 2016

812 DeQueen, Mena, AR 71953 • (479) 394-5414 270 E 6th Street, Waldron, AR 72958 (479) 637-2860

• Individual, Farms, Corporate and Partnership income tax preparation • Estate, Trust, Exempt Organization, Gift and Benefit Plan returns • Tax Planning and Consulting • Estate Planning • QuickBooks Support

National Family Caregiver Support Program

Caregiver Support Meeting • February 11, 2016 at 11:15 am

If you are a caregiver of an adult 60 years and older please come join us. This information could be extremely helpful to you. The topic will be “Medication Management” presented by Kassie Strother, Mena Manor. For information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373. Hope to see you there. Refreshments will be served.

The Cossatot Senior Center

7366 Hwy 71 S • Wickes, AR 71973 • Office: 870-385-2373

citizen

Mena’s Junior Bearcat basketball season ended Tuesday night with a nail biting loss (41-36) to the Nashville Scrappers during round two of the 7West-4A District Basketball Tournament being played in Waldron this week. The team has shown exceptional talent and has many excited about the program’s future as the team matures and moves into senior high play. The team has performed well against strong teams, speciﬁcally, against an, at the time, undefeated Ashdown team that came to Mena on January 25, and left defeated, 64-60, after double overtime. The Junior Bearcats defeated Fountain Lake in the ﬁrst round of district tournament action on Saturday, 37-29. Head Coach is Thomas Powell and Assistant Coach is Randy Peters.

sports

history

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Moments From America’s History: Just what is conservatism? (Part 1 of 2) CONTRIBUTED BY JEFF OLSON • olsonjd@arkansas.net

owadays within the political world and especially in this election year, Americans are bombarded with rhetoric, slogans, and phrases used by politicians to convince us of their good intentions in looking after our welfare. Labels such as liberal, conservative, libertarian, neo-con, rino (Republican in Name Only), and independent are thrown around in the public discourse as tools of their trade and it has come to the place where the original meanings of some such terms have been skewed and distorted or perhaps never understood by many in our generations. During this election cycle, I think I have heard the term “conservative” more often than at any other time in my memory. The Republican candidates are trying to convince us of who is the most conservative of the lot, but with no particular standard of conservatism from which to measure.  To some extent, the American people have been given some identifying concepts such as smaller or limited government, lower taxes, strong military, and school choice. However, to others it may also indicate certain stances on social/moral issues such as abortion and homosexual rights. While these connections are quite legitimate, they do not do full justice to the traditional and foundational conservative principles which have characterized much of the culture of our nation since her inception. This is due to the roots and scope of conservatism which go back in history well past the events of Lexington and Concord, Plymouth and Jamestown, and deeper still beyond Christopher Columbus and Martin Luther to such men as Plato, Aristotle, and Cicero. The root word of Conservative is, of course, conserve. This obviously implies the preservation of something. While we often think of conservation primarily in terms of limited natural resources, we tend not to consider many valuable aspects of our country’s traditions, institutions, and values as examples of conservation. There is a treasure of wealth within America’s heritage which represent foundational elements of conservatism and which remain crucial to the sustenance of our culture and way of life. What I share here will be introductory in purpose and be based primarily on the knowledge of such great minds as Edmund Burke, Eric Voegelin, G.K. Chesterton, Russell Kirk, Alexis de Tocqueville, Hilaire Belloc, Friedrich von Hayek, and C.S. Lewis. While Aristotle (384-322) is considered to be the Father of political conservatism, the term “conservative” did not take on a political meaning in America until the 1820s. During his campaign for the presidency, Abraham Lincoln defined conservatism as “...adherence to the old and tried, against the new and untried.” The roots of conservative thought extend deep into the history of ideas and of social institutions. According to noted author Russell Kirk, conservatism is a certain perspective of the civic social order and centers around basic beliefs and core values. It is a system of principles based on general truths obtained from the wisdom of our ancestors, practical experience, and a knowledge of the human heart. French political writers defined the concept of “conservateur” as the guardian of the heritage of civilization and of the principles of justice. Essentially then, conservatism is first and foremost a collage’ of principles; a way of looking at the human condition. Conservatism is thus rooted in human identity before it takes on a political nature. The following is a synopsis of the general principles of conservatism which most eminent conservatives over many generations have agreed upon, at least implicitly.  First, there exists a transcendent moral order based on an enduring moral authority. For America, that authority has traditionally been God, as manifested through the moral postulates of the Judeo-Christian faith. Without order, there can be no justice and freedom. Second, social continuity should be preserved. This principle considers justice, order, and freedom as products of many years of trial, error, reflection and sacrifice, not as a product of abstract theory or speculation. In the words of Edmund Burke, “In history a great volume is unrolled for our instruction, drawing the materials of future wisdom from the past errors and infirmities of mankind. History consists the about great part of the miseries 5 keyfor facts Prostate Cancer:brought on the world by pride, ambition, avarice, revenge, lust, sedition, hypocrisy, ungoverned zeal, and all the train of disorderly appetite.” 1. Affects 1 in every 6 men 2. Deadlier cancer on the wisdom of our ancestors which has proven to be more prudent than to rely solely on Third, the belief in the principle of prescription. This refers tothan thebreast dependence 3. Detectable in early stages private judgment and rationality. As one of the schoolmen of the eleventh century, Fulbert of Chartres, best expressed it, “We are dwarfs mounted upon the shoulders of 4. NOT an old man’s disease giants.” 5. Does NOT go away if you avoid Fourth, guidance should come from the principle oftesting. prudence. PlatoWe believed thatyou prudence is chief among the virtues of a true statesman. This can best be described as Gentlemen: encourage to get a PSA test. the deliberate assessment of an action based primarily on blood its long-term consequences and not just on temporary advantage or popularity or immediate gratification. Here, in regard to virtue, I would add Aristotle’s observation that “without virtue,” man “is the most unholy and the most savage” of all animals; Fifth, the principle of variety should be followed, which basically favors the proliferation of long-established and proven social institutions and modes of life over the narrowing uniformity, leveling, and egalitarianism of radical systems of ideology; Such Please make The Cole egalitarianism, or an inordinate love of equality, can lead to the tyranny of relativism Team Bold & larger than a belief that no way of life, no religion, no morality can be judged to be better than the address & phone any other. Thus, each person decides for himself what is good and evil, and man numbers MENA REAL ESTATE becomes his own god, void of any convictions worth living or dying for. We become a below it. society of “Men without chests,” in the words of C.S. Lewis in his work The Abolition of Man. Omit the 800 number and Sixth, recognized should be the fallibility and imperfectability of man which is a the e-mail address and fundamental premise of Christianity (ie. doctrine of original sin). Human nature is substitute one of the few major constants in life and leads us to the reality that no perfect social 816 S. Mena St. www.FarrellCole.com order can ever be created. Thus, a utopia on Earth is unrealistic and unattainable, so instead. Mena, AR 71953 any efforts to that end are totally in vain and will inevitably result in revolution, disconOffice: (479) 394-5000 tent, and tyranny. History has repeatedly proven this.   In the web address across www.FarrellCole.com Part 2 of 2 will be published in the February 17, 2016 issue the bottom, capitalize the M in Mena, the R in www.MenaRealEstate.com Real & the E in Estate.

Farrell & Sharon Cole

The Cole Team

479-394-7301

1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

arts

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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Art Awareness at Mena Art Gallery T

CONTRIBUTED BY BARBARA M. TOBIAS

his month’s Art Awareness program at the gallery (607 Mena Street, 5:30 pm on Tuesday, February 16) will be presented by Rick Chrisman. His topic will be Marketing Three-Dimensional and Craft Art. Rick, as many of you know, spent many years in fine craft creation and marketing. He and Donna Chrisman created beautiful wooden boxes, both traditional Shaker boxes and modern designs using a variety of ways to showcase the beauty of the wood. His company name was Revolutionary Designs. In addition to marketing his work, Rick has been Chair of the Board of Mena Art Gallery for the last several years, and he was the moving force behind the Ouachita Studio Tours as well as the current Ouachita Arts Celebration annual event. You do not have to be a member of the gallery to attend these events; admission is free.

Weekly Publication

Dearly Beloved Opens at Mena Mountain Resort

CONTRIBUTED BY JUDY THOMPSON

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

re you ready for a date night, a Valentine’s special treat, or a fun night out with friends? Mena Mountain Resort and the Ouachita Little Theatre have joined together to make any of the above a reality on this Friday, February 12. OLT will present Dearly Beloved, a Jones, Hope and Wooten comedy at the resort, with dinner beginning at 6:30 and the play following at 7:30. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 394-3110. Cost is $30 per person. The play opens at OLT the following evening, February 13, at 7:30 with matinee on Sunday, February 14, at 2:30. It will be repeated the following weekend at OLT. Judy Thompson, director, encourages everyone to come out and see their neighbors and friends performing. The cast consists of Lamar Austin (Dub); Elijah Barnes (John Curtis); Janelle Barnes (Twink); Marilyn Brown (Madam Nelda); Mark Castillo (Wiley); Tara Cornelius (Tina/Gina); Ann Glenn (Geneva); Chris Kuskie (Justin); Denni Longoria (Honey Raye); Deborah Tennison (Frankie) and Judy Weir (Patsy). Katie O’Rear is serving as stage manager and Marilyn Brown is assistant director. For further information, call OLT at 243-0186.

Care & Maintenance of Ornamental Grasses O

home & garden

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CONTRIBUTED BY KIM HUGHES 6, 2016 January

khughes@uaex.edu

rnamental grasses are valued as low maintenance plants and have become increasingly popular in home landscape use. The two maintenance requirements that ornamental grasses have are annual cutting back of spent foliage and the division of large grass clumps. Fertilizer - Ornamental grasses require relatively low levels of fertility. By keeping the level of nitrogen low, lodging or flopping over can be kept to a minimum. Leaf color and vigor are good guides to nitrogen requirements. Application of one-half to one pound of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 sq. ft. of garden area or about one-quarter cup per plant is sufficient. Apply fertilizer just as growth resumes in the spring. An application of a slow release fertilizer in the spring is enough to take care of the plant’s needs throughout the summer. Fertilizer should be watered-in thoroughly. Water - Plants should be well watered the first season after planting so they can develop a good root system. Established plants do not need regular watering, but may need supplemental watering during drought periods. Weed Control – Cultivate around grass plants to control weeds. Application of mulch will greatly reduce the need for cultivation as well as watering. It also tends to keep grasses in check that have a tendency to be heavy reseeding types. Winter Protection and Spring Clean-up - Grasses do not need to be cut down before winter. In fact, they are attractive when left standing and the foliage helps to insulate the crown of the plant. Cut back the foliage to about 4-6 inches in the spring before growth resumes. When foliage is removed, spring growth will begin earlier. Old foliage left on the plant can delay the crown’s warming and subsequent growth by as much as 3 weeks. Dividing - Divide ornamental grass plants every three to four years to reduce crowding, to propagate new plants, or to rejuvenate plants suffering from die-out in the center. Division should be done in the spring just before growth begins, or in the late summer or fall after the growing season. Dig up the clump with the root ball intact. Cut into large segments with a sharp knife or digging spade. Plant one of the segments in the original location. Replant the remaining segments in other areas of the garden, or give them away to friends.

January 6, 2016

TRAVEL & LEISURE: ABROAD • ADVENTURE • BEACH • CHARTER • CLIMATE • CRUISE • DESTINATION • EXCURSION • FARE • FIRST CLASS • GETAWAY • GLOBAL • HARBOR • HOTEL • ITINERARY • JOURNEY • JUNKET • LODGING • LUGGAGE • MEMENTO • OCEAN VIEW • RESORT • ROUND TRIP • SAFARI • SCENIC • SOUVENIR • TOURS • UPGRADE • VACATION • VOYAGE

police

February 10, 2016

Weekly Publication

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The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

Mena Police Department January 31, 2016 Report was taken of a dog biting a neighbor’s child. Case referred to animal control. Report was taken of an argument between two local women. Case pending. February 1, 2016 Kyle Williams, 21, of Mena was charged with disorderly conduct. Kymberlie Chaney, 18, of Mena was charged with disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia. Report was made of an argument between a Mena woman and her former boyfriend. Case pending. Officers responded to a call of an argument between a Mena man and woman. No charges were filed. A 17-year-old Mena youth was charged with assault on a family member. Case referred to juvenile authorities. February 2, 2016 A local woman reported that her former husband is harassing her. Case pending. February 3, 2106 Gerald Aleshire, 18, of Mena was charged with public intoxication. A Mena woman reported that she has been receiving obscene telephone calls. Case pending. Report was taken of an altercation between two roommates at a local apartment complex. Case pending. February 4, 2016 Shawn Fender, 45, of Mena was arrested and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of schedule VI controlled substance, and driving on a suspended driver’s license. February 5, 2016 Carl Wayne Vincent, 51, of Mena was charged with DWI, obstruction of governmental operations and having no proof of insurance. Cody Lee Enyeart, 32, of Mena was charged with two counts of commercial burglary (felony), two counts of theft of property (misdemeanor), two counts of second-degree criminal mischief (misdemeanor), one count of breaking or entering (felony), one count of possession of methamphetamine (felony), and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia (felony). James Anthony Hembree, age 55, of Mena was charged in the same incident with two counts of commercial burglary (felony), two counts of theft of property (misdemeanor), two counts of second-degree criminal mischief (misdemeanor), and one count of breaking or entering (felony).

February 6, 2016 No reports on file. Officers worked six accidents.

Polk County Sheriff’s Department February 1, 2016 Request for assistance with a Probation Search led to the arrest of Jackson H. Riley, 21, of Mena, on Charges of Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance with Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms and Possession of a Schedule I/II Controlled Substance. Arrested was Jennifer A. Chaney, 23, of Mena, on a Warrant for Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. February 2, 2016 Report from complainant on Polk 20 near Cove of a forged check on a closed account. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from a Mena woman of suspicious behavior led to the arrest of Jonathan M. Bush, 25, of Mena, on a Charge of Rape of a Minor by Family or Guardian. Report from complainant on Polk 77 near Mena of having several forged checks on their account. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from a business on Highway 375 East near Mena of damage to the lawn, totaling losses at $600.00. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Cody L. Enyeart, 32, of Mena, on a Charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. February 3, 2016 Arrested was Aaron F. Ollar, 28, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. Report of a break-in and theft of a closed business in Hatfield totaling losses at $300.00. Investigation continues. February 4, 2016 Report from complainant on Polk 93 in the Rocky community of the theft of a gate, valued at $100.00. Report from a Mena woman of problems with child custody exchange. Arrested was Mary E. Spears, 25, of Mena, on Warrants for Failure to Appear and two counts of Violation of the Arkansas Hot Check Law. February 5, 2016 Report from a business on Highway 71 North in Acorn of the break-in to a storage unit. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 61 in the Board Camp community of identity theft. Investigation continues. Arrested was Cody L. Enyeart, 32, of Mena, on a Warrant for Bond Revocation. Arrested was James A. Hembree, 55, of Mena, on a Warrant for Violation of Suspended Imposition of Sentence. February 6, 2016 Report from complainant on Highway 4 West

near Cove of a fire. Arrested was Kathleen L. Parker, 30, of Hatfield, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report from complainant on Polk 88 near Ink of the theft of vehicle parts. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Highway 8 West near the Shady Grove community of being harassed by an acquaintance. The subject was advised to not return to the property. Report from walk-in complainant of being harassed by an acquaintance. The subject was advised to cease all contact. February 7, 2016 Traffic stop on Frachiseur Road in Grannis led to the arrest of Richard S. Dixon, 49, of Grannis, on Charges of No License Plate, Ob-

structing Governmental Operations and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Report from complainant on Trailwood Lane near Mena of the break-in to a vehicle and theft of tools, valued at $52.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 43 near Mena of the theft of rodeo equipment, valued at $50.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 402 near Cove of the break-in and theft of items from a rental property. Investigation continues. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked three vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated Inmates; 5 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 1 is currently out of jail on a monitoring system.

classifieds

February 10, 2016

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

Two Women & a Mop – housecleaning done the way it should be. Will also detail new construction. Call 479234-3418 or 479-234-1909. 2/17

Squeaky Clean Mobile Dog Wash, Dry, Nails, Ears, Brushing, Clipping, Deanna Boyd 479-234-1866, I will come to you. Like Facebook 2/10

J & N Dozer – Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dump Truck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling, Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years’ experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357. TFN

Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair, decks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068. 2/24

For Sale: 2015 Keystone Bullet Travel Trailer 34ft sleeps 8-10 people. Bumper pull with stabilizer bar loaded. Please Call 479-243-3675. 2/10 JOB OPENINGS - The City of Mena is accepting applications for part-time seasonal workers at the McMillan Park Swimming Pool. Current openings are for the position of Pool Manager and the position of Assistant Pool Manager. These positions require individuals that are at least 21 years of age and are eligible to pass a life guard certification course. Applications will be accepted at the Arkansas Employment Security Department, Northside Shopping Center, Mena, Arkansas 71953 until 2/16/16. The City of Mena is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Also, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Mena, Arkansas, will make reasonable accommodation for employees qualified to perform all essential aspects of the job function. 2/10 Precision copy and restoration of art, photos, negatives and slides. Michael Cate 479-437-4902.

2/17

Advertisement for bid: The Polk County Judge is soliciting bids for the modification of existing abutments and construction of a concrete bridge deck located on Polk County Road 37. A copy of bid documents and specifications may be obtained at the Polk County Judge’s Office at 507 Church Avenue in Mena, Arkansas. Bids are due and will be opened at 9:00 AM on February 22nd, 2016 in the basement of the Polk County Courthouse. Each bid must be accompanied by a 5% surety or cashier’s check drawn upon a bank or trust doing business in the state of Arkansas. Polk County reserves the right to reject any or all bids or waive any formalities. Polk County encourages the participation of small, minority, and woman’s business enterprises. Questions can be directed to Polk County Judge, Brandon Ellison, at 479-394-8133. 2/10 d woman’s business enterprises. Questions can be directed to Polk County Judge, Brandon Ellison, at 479-394-8133. 2/10 For Sale: Armless hide-a-bed $100 OBO, Lg Wooden Cabinet 36 inches wide X 6 foot 2 inches Tall X 12 ½ inches deep. 870-389-6887 or 479-216-0857. 2/10 Help Wanted: Bartender full time must work nights and weekends. Apply Mena Elks Lodge, 124 Elk Lane, Mena. 2/17

FOR RENT in Mena: Nice 3 bed 2 bathroom; laundry room, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, central h/a, carport, near Louise Durham, fenced backyard. $600 a month/$600 Security Deposit. References Required. Not HUD Approved. No Smoking. No Pets. 479-243-5751 for an appointment. 2/10

FOR SALE by owner: 2001 Double – Wide Mobile Home, 174 Bonner Circle, located in Jolly Hollow Trailer Park on Hwy. 88 East, second driveway past Terminex. All Electric, Central Air/Heat, 3 bedrooms each w/walk-in closet, 2 full baths, large kitchen w/ pantry, utility room w/large capacity Electrolux washer & dryer, house is partially furnished, lots of storage, screened in porch, front covered porch and 2 other porches, 1 w/nice ramp, really nice back yard w/storage building, single car garage. A large Roll – Top Desk and a Triple Dresser with Mirror. $59,500. 479-234-9392. 2/10 Harris Fence serving Mena & surrounding areas chain link, privacy and vinyl no job too small, repairs & all 501-388-7195 over 20 years exp. 3/9

January 6, 2016

Valentine’s Dance at Joe’s Place Zafra, OK Sat Feb 13th 9 til 1 with Tyler Denton playing. 2/10 The Knights of Columbus will have a fish fry Feb, 26, 2016, at 203 8th Street St. Agnes Hall. Menu will include fried fish, hushpuppies, beans, cole slaw, desserts and drinks. All you can eat. Adults $10.00, Children $6.00, Immediate family $30.00. Serving from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 2/24

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Humane Society of the Ouachitas Pet of the Week JJ the Red Heeler mix is ready to become your princess! Just look at that pretty sweetheart of a girl! She is spayed, house trained with a dog door, and is up to date on her puppy shots. JJ is very smart and already knows the sit command. She is under a year old and medium sized. Perfect age to start training. JJ likes other dogs too. Is yours the loving home she is dreaming of? JJ is a perfect Valentine’s Day doggy! Give us a call. You’ll be glad you did! OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (479) 394-5682 • WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org • HSO is a NO KILL Shelter. HSO is not affiliated with any other local, state or national animal rescue organization. HSO is a 501(c)(3) organization. Please consult your tax advisor to see if your donation is tax deductible.

2015 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab

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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

ALL 2016 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab NEW

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2016 Chevy Sonic

2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZâ&#x20AC;˘4x4 Crew Cab

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February 10, 2016

2016 Chevrolet Suburban

4x4

Gentry Price:

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NAVIGATION SUNROOF DUAL DVD

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2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab

4x4

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2015 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab

4x4

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2015 Silverado 1500 Regular Cab

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