February 11, 2015
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Ellison Wins Appeal to FEMA BY MELANIE BUCK Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison submitted, and won, an appeal for the denial of funds through FEMA for the replacement of a bridge on Polk 62 that was damaged in the May 30, 2013 flood. Ellison first applied for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding after the area was an officially “declared event.” FEMA denied the funding based upon, “noncompliance with maintenance recommendations, as contained in the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department’s report, dated October 23, 2012.” FEMA determined the failure of the bridge is directly attributed to deferred maintenance noted on the bridge report instead of being “a direct result of the declared event.” The 2012 report, written more CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
Valentine’s Day Specials pg16-17
MRHS Supports ‘Go Red for Women Movement’
Above are just a few of the employees from Mena Regional Health System who, on Friday, February 6, all wore red in a show of support for the ‘Go Red for Women’ movement. The National Wear Red event is set aside as a movement to honor women and raise awareness about heart disease being the number one killer of women. For more information, visit www.GoRedForWomen.org
Affirmed Landmark Case Leads to Additional Arrest & Lawmakers Seeking to Clarify the Law
Andi’s Law Awaiting Governor’s Signature
BY MELANIE BUCK Arkansas State Representative of District 94 Rebecca Petty has won justice by way of House Bill 1012 for her daughter, Andi Brewer, the 12-year old rape and strangulation victim of Karl D. Roberts in 1999 in Polk County. The bill, named Andi’s Law, gives victims and their families the right to watch the execution of their attacker either in an adjacent room to the execution room or via a live secure satellite feed to a private location on prison grounds. “It was quite the fight, to put it lightly. It’s where we need it to be and I couldn’t be more pleased. To give crime victims part of their voice back was what this was all about,” Petty said. Petty took office in January and made her first priority to fight to honor Andi and to revise and protect victim’s rights. “I didn’t speak of the situation for many years, probably about 10 years or so. Every now and again I would gripe about how bad we were treated the night that Roberts was supposed to be executed, but was CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
Hebert Opens Stache’s Cookery
BY MELANIE BUCK On the heels of a landmark decision made by the Arkansas Court of Appeals issued last week to keep Melissa McCann-Arms in prison for taking drugs while pregnant, Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner is bringing another case to Polk County courts by way of Jessica M. Fox. Fox was arrested on Monday, February 2, 2015 for two counts of Introduction of Controlled Substance into the Body of Another Person. Fox gave birth to a child on October 17, 2013, which tested positive for four different drugs: methamphetamine, amphetamine, opiates, and Oxycodone. Fox tested positive for the same drugs with exception to opiates. The arrest was delayed pending the appellate courts opinion in the McCann-Arms case. JESSICA FOX
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AMYE’S BACK! BY MELANIE BUCK Amye Hebert is back and has brought Stache’s with her. Hebert opened her new restaurant, Stache’s Cookery, on Monday, February 9, and is serving up menu items that you won’t get elsewhere.
1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
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Page 2
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
The Polk County Pulse & MyPulseNews.com
editor
A NOTE FROM THE
Ahhh… the season of love. That one day of the year that is completely commercialized to remind us to do or buy something for our special Valentines. One out of 365? Really? I’m certainly glad that the love of my life doesn’t limit his random and sincere acts of kindness to just one day a year. I’m glad that he doesn’t need a national holiday to remember to say he loves me or to bring me fresh cut flowers. I’m glad that he loves me with my hair affright and no bondo (my slang for make-up) on or after I’m covered in mud after 4-wheeling. I’m even more glad that his unconditional love has seen us through our share of very broken and hard times, full of stubbornness, pride and selfish choices… because his love for me mirrors that of Christ’s love for His church… a forgiving, ceaseless, enduring and selfless love… it’s agape. And while I would like to think that no one could appreciate his love for me… more than me, I know without a doubt that both of our children do. And one in particular is still giving thanks to the Father for her family’s restoration. You see, our story is full of all the fun and excitement of a new love… to the reality of marriage and a family with all of the obligations… to a very broken state. A broken state that was dark and incredibly painful for every single member of our family. But it was in our broken state and a few years spent apart that God was able to redeem what the Enemy meant for harm to author a restoration that has a far greater story… a story that became a testimony about forgiveness, a testimony about the love of family, a testimony about the power of God to heal all. Genesis 50:20 – You [the Enemy] intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. The family unit mirrors God’s relationship with His church and His children and is at the core of the Enemy’s target to seek, to kill, and to destroy. When he strikes at our families, he’s striking at the very fibers that make up this great nation. In the disposable culture we live in, the Enemy would like nothing more than for us to feel defeated and broken, vulnerable to his lies… “It’s not fun anymore… We’ve changed … It’s too far gone.” The Enemy wants us to be aimlessly chasing our “happily ever after perfect love” that isn’t realistic instead of standing on God’s truths. He wants to keep us chasing something trying to “have it all.” Never recognizing that with commitment, forgiveness, patience and a whole lot of love… we already do. For us, it was through the faithful devotion of our very young children and the strong sense of family that we had instilled in them at young ages that their prayers never ceased … over three years … their prayers continued faithfully … and they were heard. God’s grace shined the brightest upon our family when two broken hearts found healing in Him and became one again… living truth that what He has joined, no man, no amount of time, and no piece of paper could ever put asunder. We share our story openly, years later, hoping that it will expose the lies that are ripping apart families. Our restored family is strong, close and solid because of our faith in the God of second chances, because of our love and respect for one another, because the leader of our family is a godly man that genuinely, courageously and boldly loves his family as Christ loved His church. He leads by example. He has a servant’s heart, always doing for each of us. He knows he is at his strongest when he is on his knees. He treasures his time spent with us far more than any lures of this world. The strength and depth of his love for his children and for me, literally brings me to my knees in thankfulness. The joy of raising our children and celebrating their successes and even their failures side by side… the security of knowing that nothing this world hurls at us can ever separate us again because of the strength we have found in each other and in God…. the butterfly flutters that can still be felt when gazing into those same eyes as I did on our first Valentines 24 years ago. Not a day goes by that I don’t think God for this love… my dream come true… my Valentine all year long. FAMILY, the secret to having it all… is realizing you already do! All for His Glory -
“F
AMILY:
the secret to having it all... is realizing you already do!
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PHONE: 479-243-9600 FAX: 479-243-9603 1168 Hwy 71 South, Mena The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays with a distribution of 8,000 and estimated readership of 10,000. All rights to contents are reserved by D&L Publishing Co. MyPulseNews.com currently has an on-line audience of 31,000 giving us a combined readership of 39,000. POLICY: The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of D & L Publishing Co. & The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be pre-paid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Page 3 Weekly Publication To our customers a positive change…
We have been seeking the best option that would provide security and future opportunities for our employees and continue the kind of small town, personal service our customers have come to expect. One of the primary reasons we are going in this direction is that we wanted to collaborate with a company who has the same priorities… a company who puts customers and employees at the “top of the list” instead of just “on the list”. After exploring all of the obvious opportunities, we were led to Crow Burlingame/Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts group out of Little Rock, Arkansas. Crow Burlingame/Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts focuses on professional installers and shops, farmers, truckers, paint and body equipment and light industry. They specialize in nationally known, high quality brand names and remain truly committed to the customer. Beginning in 1919, they have grown to be the 2nd largest privately held parts company in the US, operating over 160 stores. They have a long family history and work hard at putting the customer and their employees first. Carl Pate and family are please to announce an agreement to merge our resources and join the Crow Burlingame/Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts team. Carl Pate and family remain committed and involved in the business, Carl will assume the role of store manager and Jon Pate will be in the assistant manager role of the Crow Burlingame/Bumper to Bumper location here in Mena. All of his other employees have been extended job offers in their current positions and accepted. Tillman Putman and the current crew at the Crow Burlingame/Bumper to Bumper Mena location will be staying on board and look forward to being a part of the newly combined store team. The name and the building location will change just like the names on the boxes, but the commitment to our customers will never change. We anticipate a week or so in transition and would ask your patience through the next few days.
From, Carl Pate and family and the store team, we thank you and look forward to the future as Crow Burlingame/Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts.
Area Schools See Spike in Flu Cases
NEWS
Over the years, our family has been doubly blessed with a great loyal store team, and a wonderful group of customers. It is important for you to know how much we appreciate your support and loyalty over the years. Our business would not be what it is today without your personal support. With you, we have all grown together and seen many changes over the years. We have always tried to do the very best we could to be a true partner in your business as well as a supplier and a friend. We hope you think we have stood with you through the good times and the bad times.
February 11, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK As the nation is seeing severe cases of influenza from coast to coast, health officials would like to remind the community of how to prevent the flu and also, give area schools’ guidelines to keep from spreading the illness. Amanda Page, RN for the Mena School District, said they have seen moderate cases of the flu/flu-like symptoms. Mena’s full list of medical guidelines can be found on their website, www. http://hs.menaschools.org/. Some of those include, if your child has a temperature of 100 or greater, he or she should not return to school until they have been fever free for 24 hours without the use of feverreducing medications such as Tylenol, Advil, or Ibuprofen. Mena also requires the student to have been on Tamiflu for 24 hours before the return to school. However, Page said, “Most kids who have been on Tamiflu for 2-3 days are still not feeling well and are absent 3-4 days at a time.” Although 100 degrees is usually the temperature of fever when students are sent home, Mena’s district is sending students home with less of a fever when they exhibit flu-like symptoms, just to be safe. Acorn’s school nurse, Lisa Falls, LPN, said they have seen several cases of the flu and flu-like symptoms and are allowing doctors to make the determination of when a student should go back to school. “We’ve had about 20 cases of actually diagnosed flu. There is also another viral illness going around that has similar symptoms,” said Falls. In the Cossatot River School District, RN Cari Bush, reported that they have had quite a few more cases this year than last year. “We’ve had several students going home daily with flu-like symptoms. As far as protocol, typically it would be 100 degrees but we have gone down to 99.5, or 99.3 if there are other symptoms.” All schools, along with the Arkansas Department of Health are encouraging everyone to take preventative measures to hinder the spread of influenza. Being vaccinated is the most important step. When symptoms occur, see a physician. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and always wash your hands. Each year in the United States, 25-50 million infections are reported, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized and 23,600 die due to seasonal flu. The seasonal flu virus is spread through coughing or sneezing and by touching a hard surface with the virus on it and then touching your nose or mouth.
Job Opportunity The Pulse is seeking a Sales Representative/Marketing Specialist. Qualified candidates will be creative, highly motivated with excellent communication skills and able to multi-task in a fast paced environment. Base pay with commission based on performance. NO PHONE INQUIRIES. Interested parties may submit a resume to 1168 Hwy 71 South or email to editor@polkcountypulse.com.
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February 11, 2015
Ellison
Weekly Publication
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
NEWS
than seven months before the flood that destroyed the bridge, showed that there were existing bridge deficiencies. However, unwilling to take no for an answer, Ellison’s appeal contended that the deficiencies listed, such as cracked concrete footings and timber columns out of plumb, had not created safety issues as proven by the amount of heavy traffic that used the bridge up until the flood. Ellison stated in his appeal, “I believe that the bridge report that FEMA is basing their denial on is being given too much weight and enough consideration is not being given to the fact that heavy poultry, logging, and farm trucks used this bridge daily until May 30. I respectfully request that FEMA reconsider it’s decision and fund this bridge replacement.” Ellison also pointed out in the appeal that just because the state had not received a report of repairs to the bridge between the 2012 report and the flash flood, did not mean the repairs were not completed and that “road crews routinely examine bridges when on grading routes and any bridge considered dangerous to our citizens are either repaired or closed.” After Ellison’s appeal, FEMA released a report stating, “FEMA has determined that the bridge maintained its original function and capacity prior to the event. There were no emergency closures nor were any weight restrictions imposed resulting from the AHTD report.” The new 24-feet wide by 32-feet long bridge, engineered by Vaughn Engineering, was completed in March 2014 and was constructed by Silco Construction, Inc., from Scott County who had submitted the lowest bid of $139,775. The demolition, channel redirection work, bank restoration and elevated bridge approaches were completed by the Polk County Road Department. Among the most notable improvements is the significantly higher elevation of the new bridge. It is constructed of steel girders and concrete and also features guard rails and 4-wing walls. The County acquired, placed and compacted approximately 800 cubic yards of fill from a local source to elevate the new approaches and then they were topped off with approximately 100 cubic yards of road base. “I am very proud of our new bridge and I know the affected citizens who have been inconvenienced are too,” said Ellison. “This is a very strong and modern bridge and because it is of sufficient design, it will not be required to have a posted load limit.” Judge Ellison is unsure how much funding will be received to recoup some of the cost but the report stated, “FEMA will restore the basic eligibility of the bridge and determine eligible costs.” “I believe that it was an injustice to have the funding for this project denied by FEMA because it did meet the criteria. Sometimes rural counties get short changed for obvious reasons. I believed it was my duty to put forth every effort possible to change their decision,” said Ellison.
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Chamber Welcomes Shoe Craze
Shoe Craze was welcomed into the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, February 5, 2015. Shoe Craze is located at 822 Mena Street and is owned by Tim and Tara Milham and managed by Timrie Wells.
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February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Andi’s Law
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NEWS
not. I felt victimized by the way we were treated. For many years, it tormented me,” said Petty. Petty said the night that Roberts was scheduled to die, she and several family members traveled to the prison to witness the execution. However, when they arrived, only five family members were allowed inside, but not to the execution room. They were taken to a room inside the prison with a small black and white television that was wired to the execution room. “When you’ve prepared yourself to watch an execution, the emotional trauma, is a huge deal. I found out hours before the execution that we weren’t going to get to view it because of state law. There was no victim coordinator in there with us, no one but us five,” Petty recalls. She added, “Not only that, but my family that came to support us weren’t even allowed onto prison grounds. They initially asked them to leave.” Petty said the family was threatened with arrest by prison officials if they didn’t leave. Colleen Nick of the Morgan Nick Foundation was with the family and she had been working closely with state police to get the Amber Alert going in Arkansas. Petty recalled, “Colleen said, ‘this is wrong,’ and through her, they allowed my family to go into a tent outside while we were in the prison.” While Petty and her family awaited the execution, they found out that instead of Andi’s family witnessing the execution, 12 strangers would sit in the room ‘behind the glass’ to witness what Petty and her family felt was their right, and their duty to Andi. “All these people that didn’t even know her, citizens, prosecutors, FBI, media, were allowed to go into the room but I, her mother, that taught her to talk and walk, was not allowed to go in and take care of Andi’s last bit of business.” Petty and her daughter, Melanie Thompson, recalled feeling victimized by the entire process. Thompson said, “It reopened those wounds again, even as young as I was, it just reopened all those other wounds.” Andi’s Law gives the right for 6 family members to watch from the adjacent viewing room and 12 members through a live secure satellite feed to a private room. Now, instead of only 5, a total of 18 family members can view the execution. Thompson said, “I feel like we get the choice and now that I’m a mother and I’m older, I want to make that choice myself. I don’t want someone else to choose for me. I don’t want the state to say whether I can or can’t.” Roberts was initially convicted in May 2000 of the murder of his niece (by marriage), Andi Brewer. He was sentenced to die by lethal injection. Roberts waived his right to challenge his conviction and sentence in 2000 in Polk County Circuit Court. As is customary in death penalty cases, the Arkansas Supreme Court reviewed the case for any errors that may have occurred in the trial courts (Polk County Circuit Court). Just hours before Roberts was scheduled for execution in January 2004, he allowed his attorneys to seek an appeal and received a stay of execution based on his competency to waive his rights. Ultimately, the Arkansas Supreme Court re-opened his case on February 14, 2013 following numerous legal actions and delays. Circuit Court Judge J.W. Looney presided over a hearing in December 2014 and stated in his decision that Roberts is indeed “competent to knowingly and intelligently waive all rights to post conviction relief and has the capacity to choose between life and death (i.e. to elect execution) and to forego representation.” His case continues in the Court of Appeals. Prior to passage of HB 1012, only 5 family members could watch via live feed, after you
Chamber Welcomes Wholesale Electric Supply
Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce welcomed new member, Wholesale Electric Supply, into the membership with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, February 5, 2015. Wholesale Electric Supply is located at 507 Sherwood Avenue, Mena.
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Our mission is to compassionately connect, support & serve others.
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NEWS
February 11, 2015
LeadsOnline.com Helping Law Enforcement to Recover Stolen Merchandise
BY MELANIE BUCK Local law enforcement is having success from using a new online program that helps them to track stolen items that are pawned at stores anywhere in the U.S. The new innovative service offers a massive online database, in which all pawn dealers are required to register items at LeadsOnline.com. Police Departments can then search the database for stolen items. Mena Police Chief Brandon Martin said there is no limit to the merchandise that can be registered: guns, jewelry, antiques, collectibles, etc., and he said, the service is a tremendous resource also for individuals because they can create their own accounts and register their merchandise as well. “In the event that their house is broken into, they can simply go online to report those items, that will have photos and description information, to us.” The service is beneficial to businesses, which are typically required by law to report their transactions to law enforcement, by making reporting easier and more efficient. From secondhand dealers, pawnshops, and gold buyers to pharmacies and scrap metal dealers, the reporting process is simplified.The vast majority of the transactions taking place in those businesses are completely legitimate, but reporting laws exist
Andi’s Law
because a relative few are related to criminal activity on the part of the customer or some other party. LeadsOnline is the link between investigators and missing items or individuals who may turn out to be instrumental in solving a homicide, finding a meth lab, or getting stolen property back to its rightful owner. There is no cost, Martin said, to individuals listing items but police departments pay a subscription to access and search the database. After using the site for more than a year, Martin said it has proved to be very successful in recovering thousands of dollars of stolen merchandise. According to their website, LeadsOnline is “the nation’s largest online investigation system used by law enforcement to recover stolen property, help stop meth makers, reduce metal theft, and solve crimes. With hundreds of millions of records in our database (and increasing by the minute), our secure, easy-to-use Web-based electronic reporting service is trusted by thousands of law enforcement agencies and participating businesses nationwide. “It’s the site that the police department uses to recover stolen items. It’s just become a normal part of what we do.” Martin said this is one of those circumstances that is a “win-win” for everyone involved and is encouraging residents to take the time to list their items. For more information, click this link: http://leadsonline.com/ main/index.php.
L.L.C.
Dr. Robert S. Williams, M.D. All Major Insurance Accepted 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953
479-243-9024
New Patients Welcome
Mena Water Customers to See Annual Increase
BY MELANIE BUCK
During Mena Water Utilities January meeting, the Commission approved a 0.8 percent increase in customers’ water bills. Mena Water Manager Charles Pitman said, “Each January, we increase water rates by the lesser of 3 percent or the prior year CPI.” CPI is the Consumer Price Index, which is a statistical estimate constructed using the prices of a sample of representative items whose prices are collected periodically. The CPI at the end of 2014 was 0.8 percent Pitman said that customers will see an increase of $0.02 for every 1,000 gallons of water usage therefore the average customer will see an increase of $0.11 per month on their bill from the rate increase.
(CONCLUSION)
petitioned the warden. “The way it is written now, if siblings wish to view, they now have that right. That’s why I think that this piece of legislation is important. It gives victims of violent crimes, their voices back. My daughters, my parents were the forgotten voices. But now with this piece of legislation, they can choose and see to the last bit of business that Andi has on this planet. That was the whole point of the bill it was about seeing justice served for a 12-year old little girl who was brutally raped and left out in the woods naked and alone,” Petty said. “Until things are done right, I’m not stopping. This is an issue that needs to be closed for the entire community and Andi’s family.” “I think for me to be her mother and be able to stand in the well in the House of Representatives and be able to present this piece of legislation for my daughter is an honor. When I asked the body of legislatures that I would appreciate a good vote, I added, ‘if this passes, it’s for you Andi.” And it passed, 95-0 in the House and 34-0 in the Senate. Andi’s Law now sits on the Governor’s desk awaiting his official signature.
Williams Medical Clinic,
Weekly Publication
Valentine’s Dance
at Joe’s Place
on Hwy 246, Zafra, OK 7 miles west of Hatfield / 13 miles east of Hwy 259
with Richie Owens
Saturday, February 14th Cover Charge $6/person | $10/couple
Corner of Oak & DeQueen Streets
Page 7
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
BY MELANIE BUCK
FFA Alumni held their 26th Annual Consignment Auction on Saturday, February 7, at the Polk County Fairgrounds. Alumni Brian Erikson said there was a great turn-out and the auction raised around $6,000 for the local FFA Chapter that will be used for student members to attend camps, the Washington Leadership Conference in Washington D.C., state and national conventions, and scholarships for FFA students. Mena FFA Advisor Mike Collins said, “The alumni support our program and our ag teachers in a big way. They are giving back to something that has given a lot to them. That’s the neat thing about the alumni program.” Without the support of the alumni, Collins said there is no doubt that the program would not be as successful as it is now. “On behalf of the Mena FFA, we would to thank all Mena FFA alumni and supporters who graciously volunteered their time & effort to make the equipment auction Students on the Agriculture Electricity team a great success. Without your support, it are some that benefit from donations given would be difficult to provide opportunities by Mena’s FFA Alumni. for the wonderful kids we teach everyday,” said Collins.
TANK LZ SERIES
Z-FORCE SZ COMMERCIAL SERIES
CUB CADET RZT S
Landmark Case
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NEWS
FFA Alumni Consignment Auction Raises Thousands
The first count charged constitutes a Class Y Felony due to the drug found in the infant’s system being Oxycodone, a narcotic. The second count is a Class B Felony, having found methamphetamine, a non-narcotic, in the infant’s system. Fox told Investigator Elena Cannon that she had not done the drugs but had stayed at a residence where drugs were being used and that she did not know how they got into her system. She did admit during the interview that she had used methamphetamine before she knew she was pregnant and had also used pain pills during pregnancy for pain in her back. With appellate court Judge Phillip Whiteaker affirming the January 2014 decision of a Polk County jury in the McCann-Arms case and their subsequent 20-year sentence, the road is now paved for prosecutors to pursue what many claim is becoming an all too common occurrence. And it will be met with opposition from the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics who argue that laws that criminalize drug addiction in pregnant women steer them from pursuing prenatal care or drug rehabilitation. Whiteaker’s opinion also concurred with Riner’s argument that an unborn child is considered a ‘person.’ As of now, the law is unclear about the definition of ‘person’ and advocates of the law view an unborn fetus to not qualify as a ‘person.’ Whiteaker and Riner have both called upon legislators for clarity. A clarity that one Republican state senator plans to pursue. Senator Missy Irvin from Mountain View has publicly committed to sponsoring legislation that would amend the statute to apply to unborn children. While Whiteaker did concur with Riner that it did include unborn children, he affirmed the conviction based on the fact that McCann-Arms’ fluids continued to flow through the umbilical cord to the infant for a period after the child was born. McCann-Arms’ attorney Randy Rainwater argued in the appeal that there is no reference to unborn children in the statute and that Arkansas law does not define an unborn child as a ‘person’ except in cases of homicide. Riner said there is an easy fix to the law by changing the language to state that ‘person’ includes an ‘unborn child in utero at any stage of development.’ The Fox case is set for jury trial in late spring of 2015. She is represented by Attorney Randy Rainwater.
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394-3373
1167 HWY 71 SOUTH, MENA Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 8 am - 1 pm
Valentine’s Prime Rib Dinner February 14th 5:30-8 p.m.
$25 Per Person Contact the Elk’s Lounge for reservations by February 11th 479-394-9919
Valentine’s Dance at the Elks February 14th 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.
WITH ROBERT KELSEY
Sponsored by the Emblem Club $6 Members • $7 Guests There will be a 50/50 drawing & other door prizes
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NEWS
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Stache’s Cookery
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
Hebert is the founder and original owner of what was Spinelli’s Italian Restaurant. “Brian [Amye’s husband] gave me the opportunity to live my dream and I loved every moment of Spinelli’s. I learned so many things; I had never owned a restaurant or a bar, both very equally challenging.” After owning the restaurant for a period, she eventually sold it, and was seeking new ventures when a major fork was cast in her path. Hebert intended to cater dinner parties as her next step. “I was at my first party when I had my accident,” said Hebert. “I had a pot of oil blow up on my face and my arms. That was December 1, 2013 and it definitely took an entire year to recover. It was God’s way of making me come to a complete stop and evaluate.” During 2014, Hebert was in recovery for most of the year and had plenty of time to think. She reflected on much of her life, including the restaurant business. Then, one day last December, Herbert got a call and quickly realized that it was possible for her to have a second chance at the business. Thinking back to her period of reflection and what she would do differently if given another chance, Hebert put her plans to work and began developing Stache’s Cookery. “I felt like it was time, like I could take the challenge back on. My favorite part about it was, there are not many times in life that you get a real solid second chance to do something you’re passionate about. This was my opportunity to do it again, and do it better.” Opening in the old Spinelli’s location was perfect but Hebert wanted it to appear and feel different than before so she changed the theme and has been remodeling the res479-394-8055 taurant to create 822 Mena Street, Mena Stache’s. Not only does it have Monday - Saturday a new look, she has com10am - 6pm pletely changed the menu. “We’re exSTORE-WIDE CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Page 9
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Stache’s Cookery
(CONCLUSION)
NEWS
panding our menu to be much like a vintage American bistro, anything from Cajun to Italian, to fit all budgets and all occasions.” Although they still carry their famous high-end steaks and lasagna, they are adding new items such as a Cajun pasta dish, the Black & Blue Burger, and hot dogs; however, they are not your run of the mill hot dogs, being served with ingredients like a Mexican style slaw, Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Hebert stressed that everything is homemade, nothing from a box, “Something that’s very important to me is a scratch kitchen.” Excited about bringing down-home, from scratch food to customers, each day will have a lunch buffet so that customers can get in, eat, and get back to work within their hour break. A salad bar is another new addition and a ‘paddle board’ with cheeses and fruits. Stache’s will still maintain a bar serving old-fashion mixed drinks, such as the Moscow Mule, in old-fashion copper mugs, in addition to crowd favorites. Live music will be played on the weekends, inside during winter and on the patio when weather permits. Stache’s will have a special Valentine’s dinner on February 14 and will “make the occasion as special as you want it to be, whether it’s a white tablecloth or flowers, call and make your reservation and let us know what we can do for you,” said Hebert. Reservations can be made by calling 479-394-3737. An event specialist will also be on hand to help you plan all of your party needs. Hebert is quick to give God the glory for this second chance. She is also quick to praise her husband, Brian. “I couldn’t do anything without Brian. He makes all of this happen for me. If it’s not behind the scenes with the kids, then it’s helping with the construction of the restaurant, or day-to-day operations, anything, he’s there.” Hebert also wants to thank the people in the community that sent cards, texts, and prayers throughout her time of healing, “I want people to know how incredibly grateful I am for the love and support. I couldn’t have made it through the year without you.” Stache’s will be open Mondays - Wednesdays from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Thursday - Saturday from 11 a.m. - around 10. They will be closed on Sundays. Stache’s Cookery will deliver multiple orders within Mena by calling 479-394-3737.
The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce is taking Nominations at this time for the following: Volunteer of the Year
This is a person who is always volunteering their TIME for any type of function in the county.
Citizen of the Year This is a person who has represented our area to make Polk County a better place to live, work, and play.
Best New Construction
This will be any new construction during the 2014 year.
Best Renovation/Beautification
This will be any renovating done for businesses or industry during the 2014 year.
Business of the Year Please drop off your nominee and the reason why they should be nominated (100 words or less) at the Chamber office, e-mail to secretary@menapolkchamber.com or mail to Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce, 524 Sherwood, Mena, AR 71593
Deadline to nominate is March 13th.
Page 10
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
NEWS
Missing Nursing Student’s Family Issues Statement: BY LEANN DILBECK
Hopes were crushed when the body of a 21-year old missing nursing student were discovered Sunday, February 1, after multiple law enforcement agencies and volunteers had searched for 3-days. All were hoping for the safe return of Callie Morris but her life was claimed by a single vehicle accident and found below a bridge in Buffalo Valley along Hwy 63 in Oklahoma. Her family has issued the following statement via Facebook: “Today has been one of the saddest days in our families’ life. Our hearts are deeply grieved. Callie was unique. She was compassionate, kind, a servant. Someone so accurately said, “to know her is to love her” and our family wasn’t the only ones who did. Over the last four days, our family has experienced and been overwhelmed by an outpouring of love, support, various acts of kindness, generous giving and prayers from friends and people we have never or may never get the privilege of meeting. We are incredibly thankful for
each and every text, call, prayer, and thoughtful act that was done. “Life isn’t fair. We don’t believe it is expected to be. We also do not assume to understand why God allows certain events to happen. But it doesn’t matter if we understand or not, what does matter is what we do. And today we choose to praise God. We chose to thank Him for the time we had Callie here. We thank Him for knowing where she is. We are grateful that He was with her when she passed. We praise Jesus for not allowing anyone to harm her. We praise Him for how happy she was before she left us. She loved her life – she was so excited about becoming a nurse. She enjoyed both of her church families. She was head over heels about her two nephews. She adored her family and most of all she loved her Savior. “We know that if Callie had one wish, she would hope that her death would draw others closer to Him. She would want those that have not experienced Christ’s forgiveness to know how much God loves them. She would want you to know that God is real, Jesus came to this earth and died for us so that through belief in Him we can have forgiveness and experience a relationship
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with Him. She would want you to have the sweet assurance that comes from knowing you belong to Him. “When our family goes to sleep tonight, we will know without any doubt that we will see her again. Our family’s prayer is that from our tragic loss will come great triumph of people coming to know how amazing Christ’s love is and that there is Hope in this world. “Callie’s cousins Starla and Sharla used to sing to Callie when she was a baby. They would sing ‘You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey, you’ll never know dear how much I love you, please don’t take my sunshine away.’ Today we lost some of our sunshine, but we praise God for the promise of seeing her again. We thank Him for giving us all the opportunity to know how much He loves us.” Calls to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol were not returned by press time to determine if their investigation had determined a cause for the accident.
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Page 11
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Joann Dilbeck Cauley, age 73, of Mena went to be with the Lord Friday, February 6, 2015. Joann was born to the late Frank and Freddie Dilbeck in Mena, Arkansas on May 5, 1941. Joann worked as a Retail Manager before retiring in 2000. During the years of her retail management Joann’s job took her from Fort Worth, Texas to New York City, touching many lives all along her path, until returning back home to Mena where she finished up her career working at Handy Hardware. The lives Joann touched most were those of her family who loved her so dearly. Joann answered to many names; Mom, Momma, Josie, and Granny Jo, it just depended on who was calling her at the time. Joann enjoyed cooking, sewing, watching and making cornbread for her small winged friends (Her Birds) and laughing while spending time with her family and friends. Joann was a member of Dallas Avenue Baptist Church in Mena and a member of the Red Hat Society. Joann was preceded in death by her father, Frank Dilbeck, mother, Freddie May Hooper Dilbeck, and her son, David Standridge. Joann was survived by her soul mate, Doug Nursery of Mena; one daughter, Julie Standridge Dickerson and son in-law, Terry Dickerson of Bismarck, AR; and two grandsons, Nicholas Dickerson and Jacob Dickerson of Arkadelphia. Also survived by, one daughter in-law, Lisa Standridge, and three granddaughters, Candace Standridge, Madison Standridge and Dannon Standridge, and one great-granddaughter Karol Standridge, all of Bismarck, AR. Also two stepsons, Tommy Cauley from Beebranch, and Chris Nursery of Porterville, CA and three step- daughters, Cathy Cauley Dean of Greenbrier, Connie Cauley Spiller of Conway, and Kelley Nursery of Porterville, CA. Also survived by one sister, Dorothy Clark of Mena, two brothers, Jack Wilcox and wife Lori of Glendale, AZ, and Benny Dilbeck and wife Lyn of
Andrew Clifton Foster Andrew Clifton Foster, age 87, of Mena passed away Thursday, February 5, 2015 in Mena, Arkansas. He was born January 11, 1928 in Board Camp, Arkansas to the late Grady Foster and the late Polly Looney Foster. He was married to Velma Pate Foster on December 13, 1952 at Board Camp, Arkansas. Mr. Foster proudly served his country in the U. S. Navy during the Korean War and retired from U. S. Motors and after, went to work for Polk County Road Department. He was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and a friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed He is survived by his wife, Velma Foster of Mena; sons, Andy Foster of Ponder, Texas, Randy Foster and wife Regina of Mena, Arkansas; daughter, Pam Miller and husband David, of Mena, Arkansas; sisters, Betty Fereday of Ft. Worth, Texas, Christine Head of Jacksonville, Arkansas; daughter-in-law, Judy Lee of Mena, Arkansas; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Gaylon Lee, daughter, Bonnie Lee, daughter-in-law, Karen Foster, sister, Otha Lee Richardson and brother, Sam Foster. Funeral services were Saturday, February 7, 2015, 2:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Chapel with Brother Lamar Austin officiating. Interment followed in the Old Dallas
Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation was Friday, February 6, 2015, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Pallbearers were Kenny Foster, Nicky Foster, Jeremy Miller, Damon Miller, Wendell Bartow, Shane Randall and Chris Lee. Honorary pallbearers were John Hilton, Jake Ralls, Frank Bartow, Bill White, Wade Smith, and Kenny Swank.
James “Rocky” Norman Harvey James “Rocky” Norman Harvey, age 61 of Acorn, died Saturday, February 7, 2015 at the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital in Little Rock. He was born on Friday, January 1, 1954 to Earl and Frances Bell Harvey in Magnolia, Arkansas. Rocky served both in the United States Air Force and the United States Army and was honorably discharged from both; and served in the National Guard for several more years. He was very proud of his 13 years of military service. Rocky enjoyed leather working, carpentry, and woodworking. Rocky was a very loving husband, father, peep, son, brother, uncle and friend and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by one sister, Earlene Harvey. Rocky is survived by his wife, Kay Harvey of Acorn; his son, Michael Harvey of Acorn; two daughters and son-in-law, Sonya and Thomas Kyle of Mena and Kaylene Harvey of Acorn; his parents, Earl and Frances Harvey of Acorn; his four brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill and Mary Harvey of Mena, Wayne and KarenAnn Harvey of Acorn, John and Debbie Harvey of South Carolina, and Alan Harvey of Columbia, Missouri; six grandchildren, Morgan, Nicholas, Sunny, and Olivia Harvey of Mena, MeKinzie and Braxton Kyle of Mena; five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of
other relatives and friends. A visitation was held Monday, February 9, 2015 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with military honor rendered at 7:00 P.M. Cremation services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. Online Guestbook: www. bowserffh.com
OBITUARIES
Joann Dilbeck Cauley
Mena. Another very special person in Joann’s life was Becky Hambridge along with many nieces and nephews and many beloved friends. Graveside services were Sunday Feb 8, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Arlene Dorothy Wilcox Arlene Dorothy Wilcox, age 87, of Mena, Arkansas died Tuesday, January 27, 2015 at home in Mena. She was born on Wednesday, July 20, 1927 to Charles and Dorothy Grueneick Boyer in American Falls, Idaho. Arlene loved taking care of her family and also her animals. She supported animal’s rights and the welfare of them. She enjoyed art and being an oil painter, making beautiful pieces of art. She also enjoyed working in the garden, long walks, and reading. Arlene was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, and will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Robert Wilcox. Survivors include her son, Stephen Wilcox of Oakland, California; her daughter, Tammy Miracle of Mena; one grandson, Robert Miracle of Madison, Wisconsin; and many friends. No services are planned at this time with cremation services entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. Memorials can be sent to either or both Pleasant Hills Animal Clinic, 3112 Highway 71 South, Mena, Arkansas 71953 or to the Humane Society of the Ouachitas, PO Box 845, Mena, Arkansas 71953. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh. com
Obituaries are always available on MyPulseNews.com
Page 12
AT THE CAPITOL
February 11, 2015
SB6 Passes; House Approves Legislative Task Force
BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE LITTLE ROCK – The Senate gave final approval to a broad income tax reduction proposed by the governor, which will save middle class wage earners about $102 million a year when it takes full effect. Considering it will benefit an estimated 600,000 people, it is likely to be the signature accomplishment of the 2015 legislative session. Besides reducing income tax rates for people who earn between $21,000 and $75,000 a year, it also exempts 40 percent of capital gains from the state income tax. People who earn more than $75,000 a year will pay less in income tax on the amount that exceeds $35,100; the rate will go down from 7 percent to 6.9 percent. People earning between $21,000 and $35,099 will pay 5 percent instead of 6 percent in state income taxes. People earning between $35,100 and $75,000 a year will pay 6 percent instead of 7 percent. The lower rates take effect in 2016. For income earned during the remainder of 2015, the current rates will remain in effect. In another important development, the House of Representatives gave final approval to a bill that creates a 16-member legislative task force to recommend changes to the state’s Medicaid program. At the end of 2016, Medicaid participants who enrolled as a result of the 2013 expansion known as the private option will lose their eligibility, unless the legislature takes action to restore their eligibility between now and then. The Senate approved legislation that streamlines the process under which terminally ill patients can gain access to experimental new drugs. It is Senate Bill 4. If the physician certifies that the patient has a terminal illness, the patient could buy experimental drugs that have not yet been approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration. The pharmaceutical manufacturer would not be liable if the drugs were ineffective and the patient’s condition continued to get worse. SB 4 was sent to the House. The Senate passed SB 180, which gives school superintendents more flexibility in designating snow days and closing school for inclement weather. It allows for delaying the opening of schools until 10 a.m. without the district having to make up for losing an entire day. If students are already in school when bad weather hits, and schools are shut down after 1 p.m., the district would not have to make up the day. Schools will be able to do this no more than five times a year. SB 180 was sent to the House. The House has passed HB 1012, which allows family members of murder victims to witness the execution of the killer. It received a do-pass recommendation from the Senate Judiciary Committee and was placed on the calendar of the entire Senate. Previous law allowed five family members to witness an execution via closed circuit television. HB 1012 allows up to six relatives to be in a viewing room adjacent to the death chamber, and up to 18 family members to witness via closed circuit TV. Video or audio recordings of the execution shall not be made. There are 31 men on death row in Arkansas. The most recent executions in Arkansas were in 2005, 2004, 2003 and 2001. In each year a man was put to death. In 2000 there were two executions, of a man and a woman. In 1999 four men were executed in Arkansas.
Weekly Publication
90th General Assembly Continues to Progress
BY STATE representative nate bell In less than a month’s time, the 90th General Assembly has tackled tax cuts, health care, and has made significant advancements in education policy. Last Friday, Governor Hutchinson signed a bill to lower middle class income tax rates in our state by 1%. This will amount to a savings of around $300 a year for a family making $50,000 and will reduce the tax bills of 600,000 taxpayers earning between $21,000 and $75,000 a year. The other big development of the week came when the House passed a bill that is aimed at restructuring Arkansas’s health care policies in response to the ACA. (Obamacare) Senate Bill 96 creates a task force which will study and present findings for health care reform by the end of this year. Supporters of the bill called it a compromise for those on either side of the debate over the Medicaid expansion known as the Private Option. I am a co-sponsor of the bill which was amended in House committee to add sponsors. It will now go back to the Senate for approval of the amendment before heading to the Governor’s desk. The House also passed the appropriation bill which will continue to fund medical services provided by the Department of Human Services through the next Fiscal Year. I voted for both bills when presented. In a unanimous vote, we moved forward with a plan to offer a computer science course in every public high school in the state. This will be at no cost to the school districts as they can use a program called Virtual Arkansas. The course will teach coding, programming, web design and robotics. In recent years Arkansas has seen a decline in college graduates with degrees in computer science. Currently, only 2 percent of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) graduates have computer science degrees, but 60% of STEM jobs are in that field. Our efforts to offer these courses in high school will help put our students ahead of the curve. I’m excited to see several bills progressing that address job training and career readiness for “blue collar” jobs and positions not requiring 4 years of college. Other pieces of legislation moving out of the House this week include a bill that would prohibit a doctor from prescribing abortion inducing medication via telemedicine. HB1076 requires a physician be in the room when a patient takes the first round of medication. It also requires the physician to see the patient for a follow up visit in the weeks after. The House also passed a bill known as “Andi’s law.” The bill is named in memory of the Polk County murder victim and daughter of the bill’s sponsor Rep. Rebecca Petty. Andi’s law allows victims’ families to witness the execution of the person convicted of killing their loved one. Currently, families are allowed to witness the proceeding via closed circuit television in a separate room. I spoke in favor of this bill in committee and on the House floor. We have several major issues remaining before us. I expect members will begin addressing prison overcrowding and criminal justice reforms with proposed legislation this week. I’m also expecting members to file proposed Constitutional Amendments as that filing deadline is quickly approaching. I have filed 10 bills so far this session. 5 have already passed out of the House and one of them is now Act 21. At least 3 of the remaining bills will be presented in committee this week. You can see all of my bills and monitor their progress at: http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assembly/2015/2015R/Pages/MemberProfile.aspx?member=Bell
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Page 13 Weekly Publication
Letter to the Editor
February 11, 2015
Intellect and Intuition
BY MICHAEL REISIG Intellect is one of the most coveted elements of the human psyche, yet for all our struggles to define it, and pigeonhole Dear Editor this fundamental necessity of mankind, it is still challenged by I read Nate Bell’s article in the Pulse explaining SB6, the largest state income tax cut in intuition, faith, and politically correct protocol. It is the Achilles’ Arkansas history. Nate stated that a family or individual making around $50,000 will see a heel of mankind, the new God of the intelligentsia, who have savings of $300 a year on their state tax bill. Sounds good? Well, again Nate is wrong! come to rely on intellect more than wisdom or character. I’m A family with an income of $50000, filing without itemizing, would be allowed $4,000 for reminded of the quote by Albert Einstein: “We should take care not to make the intellect our God – it has, of course, powerful standerd deductions, making their taxable income $46,000. The tax that they would be muscles, but no personality…” responsible for would be $2,272. Taking credit for their personal tax credits ($52) their total It’s an odd contrast between intellect and intuition – intellect tax owed would be $2,220. Now, based on a 1% tax reduction, this family would, best case, has a tendency to boldly establish conclusions using existing see a saving of $22.20, not $300.00 that Nate Bell claimed. data, while intuition establishes conclusions on a multidimenThe tax cut for the average Arkansas family, might buy a dinner out for the family once sional level, and usually in the absence of data. Intellect loves a year if they go to McDonalds. It would have been a lot better if we could take this money to argue its position with formulas, algorithms, and equations. and the massive raises that the representatives received and spent it on education. Intuition simply knows what it knows. You can’t taste it, see it, or smell it, but intuition is far more often inclined to save your Ted Livin life in military combat, and/or on the late night streets of Detroit. Mena Simply put, we should never try to explain the world totally by intellect. While it may provide a path, intellect should always be confronted by character and sensibility, and tempered by faith. Letters to the Editor Policy - The Polk County Pulse reserves all rights to reject submissions. Never let intellect get in the way of imagination. While cerebration has a tenAnonymous letters are not permitted. All letters to the editor must be signed, include author’s town dency to create borders and define perimeters, imagination gives us wings. Ray of residence, and be free of the threat of libel. Letters must be 300 words or less. We prefer they Bradbury, one of my favorite science fiction writers (and a man who never let stay in the bounds of sensibility and good taste. We reserve the right to authenticate letters before intellect get in the way of imagination), offers one of the greatest quotes on this publishing. phenomena: “If we listened exclusively to our intellect, we’d have missed out on love affairs, and friendships, and never taken chances in business. In life you have to jump off cliffs and build your wings on the way down.” Now don’t misunderstand me. I’m not saying that intellect is a bad thing. Without it, we might well still be riding horses and living in thatched huts – without email, amazon. com, and cell phones. (Aaahhh! God forbid… ) But intellect tends to make us arrogant and cavalier. Intuition is more like a gift and we hold it in high regard without haughtiness. It’s more of a blessing. Intellect likes to admire itself in the mirror, and we need to be reminded that it is not necessarily wisdom. Albert Einstein said: “Information is not knowledge,” and we sometimes confuse information with intellect. You can teach a parrot to repeat an equation. It doesn’t mean he understands it. The only source of true knowledge is intuitive experience. I would never strive to direct people away from intellect, because it is undoubtedly the mortar between the bricks of progress. But I would remind them that without a powerful intuition and a loving heart, knowledge alone is still cerebral poverty.
OPINION
Letters to the Editor are not edited for grammar or spelling and are printed exactly as they are received.
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Page 14
FAMILY
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Most Kids Not Sleeping Enough: How to Help
Polk County Births
at Mena Regional Health System
(StatePoint) While parents understand the value of good sleep, a majority find it difficult to ensure their kids get enough quality sleep each night, according to a recent survey of parents across the country. From using electronic devices in bed to a lack of bedroom routines, there are plenty of reasons kids are not getting enough sleep. But high-quality sleep is important, reports the same sleep survey, conducted by Sleep Number, with the majority of parents saying that sleep impacts their child’s performance in school and in extracurricular activities. Luckily, new tools are helping kids rest easier at night. For example, Sleep Number just introduced SleepIQ Kids -- a smart bed for kids. You can adjust the bed’s firmness as children grow and monitor their presence in bed, restfulness and restlessness to assess quality of sleep. With these new sleep tools, parents can help kids be their best tomorrow.
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Heather Threat, of DeQueen, is a proud mother of a baby girl, born on February 3rd. Candace and Frederick Schupbach, of Waldron, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on February 3rd. Hayley George and Derek Reed, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on February 3rd. Lyndy Johnston and Joshua Woodard, of Waldron, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on February 3rd. Savanna Stafford and Tyler Cornelius, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on February 6th.
CUTEST PET PIC Tillman
Hunter Cannon loves hanging out with Tillman. Brent Gorden is Tillman’s owner.
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: classifieds@polkcountypulse.com
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February 11, 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
FEBRUARY 14TH Valentine’s Day
February 4, 2015
LACEY YOAKEM Personal gifts. Things that remind them of me.
LINDA SUE PECK SCROGGINS Back n Foot massage.
BECKY NORRIS Since my husband is a railroader and planning dates are almost impossible, I would love nothing more than a nice date night with him. Dinner, flowers, or just watching the sunset on the mountain. Anything would be lovely!
Order Early for best selection!
800 Janssen Avenue • 479-394-8019
MenaFlowerShop.com
Delivery Service Available!
$59.95
ZIEKA HOUGH DAVISON It doesn’t matter if you forget Valentines day , as long as you randomly do the guesstures the rest of the year.
CELESTE DEPRIEST ASHCRAFT I’d prefer dinner. I’d rather have that time spent with my hubby than gifts that are gone within a couple of days...
Florist: Shelton Bohlman Open Mon-Sat 8am - 6pm
MARY VALDOIS Is there anything else besides CHOCOLATE???
HEATHER KEECH Dinner!!!! Who doesn’t love food?!?
ANGELA BETH RAY Full body erotic massage with scented candles,pizza and Jack Daniels...
WOOO!
CATELIN MAYE WATKINS His time, and affection. Thats all Ive ever wanted and i have received that and so much more in our grand years of being a couple! So many people get lost in the whole materialistic side of it that they lose sight of whats really important. A smile, ‘i love you very much’, and showing how you mean to them is what its all about.
NANEHA LEE A hand written letter....... from the heart..... and I like Angela Beth Ray’s reply...... LOL
LUCY CHANEY I always liked a box of chocolate because you never knew what you were going to get!
CHARMED Valentine Special Jewelry, Handbags, Accessories & Much More
Locket & 5 charms
$25 Northside Shopping Center • 479-394-1992 Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm
en Attention M
T15V100A
Fresh arrangements, mylar & latex balloon bouquets, & many more creative ways to say
Pulse readers answer this question
JENNIFER SASSMAN Card and a kiss
Teleflora’s Sweet Embrace Bouquet
‘I Love You! ’
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
All I want for Valentine’s Day is...
CASSANDRA BRUCE-TUCKER Just spending time with my husband & kids. BETTY COX Time together outside...walking by the creek
February 4, 2015
Because She likes to shop... and You like to save!
tine’s $40 Valen icate f i t r e C t f i G for $30
601 Hwy 71 N., Mena (Northside Shopping Center)
Put a Sparkle in her Eye
Shop our large selection of jewelry including gold, silver, diamond & other precious gemstones!
1510A Hwy. 71N, Mena, AR • Mon-Fri 8-5 • Sat 8-1 479-394-5589 • 479-394-2907
Page 17
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Choice of potato, salad bar, roll & ice cream � ��
���������������
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Serving time 5 pm - 9 pm
Choice of potato, salad bar, roll & ice cream
Also Serving
������������ � �� ������������������� � Serving time 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
VALENTINE’S DAY ONLY
Limetree Restaurant
6am-9pm • 7 days a week Sat. & Sun. Breakfast Buffet 804 Hwy. 71 North 479-394-4702
Page 18
CITIZEN
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Janee’ Sweeney - Serving Country and Community
BY JACLYN ROSE A native of Central Arkansas, Janee’ Sweeney lived in several different states before her family returned to Arkansas where she graduated from Cabot in 1987. Immediately following graduation Sweeney joined the United States Marine Corps and served her country for the following five years. “I joined the Marine Corps because I felt that if I could become a Marine, there wasn’t anything that was out of my reach. It was such a wonderful experience and I got so much out of it. I think I already had a work ethic but it definitely reaffirmed that. Most importantly I learned to appreciate what I had as an American, especially an American woman. I served in the Middle East and it is definitely a different world,” explained Sweeney. While in the Marine Corps, Sweeney worked as an aviation hydraulic pneumatic mechanic and operated on airplane flight controls and landing gear. She did tours in Southeast Asia and served in the Middle East during Operation Desert Shield and stayed through to Operation Desert Storm. With less than 10% of the Marine Corps being female, Sweeney explained that while it was a wonderful experience for her, it is definitely not for everyone, male or female. After leaving the military, Sweeney wasn’t exactly sure what career path she wanted to follow; however, while working for the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas, doing basic accounting, she became interested in the ‘why and how’ things worked. She found software that would streamline the way the city did their billing and was then sought after by another company that needed her to help implement new software and from there, fell into the field of information technology. “I began working for a consulting firm in Little Rock, helping banks with information security and technology and the Union Bank of Mena was one of my clients. We developed a great working relationship and in 2007, when there were some staff changes and they had a need, I came to work for them. It was a great fit and I helped the bank take technology to the next level,” explained Sweeney. As the chief information officer, Sweeney oversees the information security and technology, and manages the back office operations, from bank drafts to ATM withdrawals; all aspects of the bank require technology. “I absolutely love what I do. I never wake up in the morning and dread going to work and I love working for Union Bank. There is enough change and challenge at my job to always keep me motivated,” said Sweeney. Sweeney has also used her leadership talents with the Mena Lioness organization, serving as current Past-President. The group is instrumental in raising funds to help support CASA, Clarice’s Room of Hope, the Single Parent Scholarship Fund, the Rice Depot Backpack Food Program, and more, all very vital programs in the local community. Sweeney married her husband, Kevin in 2002. “Kevin is non-stop fun, he is crazy and smart and I believe we are the best balance for each other. I tend to be inside the box, while he tends to be outside the box. We love to travel and be outside,” Sweeney explained. Sweeney is also the mother of one son, Zac Clemens and she and Kevin have four much loved dogs. “Zac recently relocated to Mena and is the new manager at Stache’s. I am very proud that I’ve raised a nice young man who is comfortable in his own skin and not afraid to take some risks. I don’t think I could’ve asked for any better,” said Sweeney. “Without a doubt, the best part of Polk County is the people. Kevin and I talk about it often, we have such a wonderful circle of friends here that we could have never of imagined as transplants. In many communities as isolated as Mena there is a tendency to be tight Thursday, Feb. 12th, Friday, Feb. 13th knit and not always open to newcomers, but we have never felt that, we were always ac& Saturday, Feb. 14th cepted,” Sweeney said.
Valentine’s Day Special
MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE OWNER - JASON MILES
*Free Estimates*
“We’ll go the extra mile for you!”
* Custom Homes * Remodels * Window Replacement * Additions * Vinyl Siding
479-216-3072
Thomas Tax Services Individual • Business • Farm Lowell Thomas - Enrolled Agent 614 Mena St., Mena, AR
Electronic Filing Fast Refunds
2 New York Strip Dinners $28.95 with baked potato and a salad. Now Accepting Reservations
479-394-6410
BOOKKEEPING SERVICES
394-0002
www.thomastaxes.com
Serving Polk County for Over 30 Years
Page 19
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Charmed - Polk County’s Gem
BUSINESS
by jaclyn rose After 16 years working in the field of manufacturing, Lisa Doughty Treat yourself to was ready for a change of pace so, along with her husband, Dalton, something unique! she opened Charmed in June of 2008. “We, like most of the people 1604 Hwy 71 S., Mena around here, would go to Fort Smith or Hot Springs and go shopping and so often we would go into a store and then talk about how Mena doesn’t have anything like this, but really needs it. We talked about it for several years and finally just decided, why not do it,” explained Doughty. With no previous retail experience, the Doughty’s opened Charmed without any idea what to expect, but have thrived in the almost seven years they have been in business. Located in the Northside Shopping Center on Highway 71 North, Charmed focuses mainly on women’s gifts, apparel, shoes and jewelry. “We don’t try to follow certain brands but we try to stay current with trends and we carry everything from babies to seniors, including girls and tweens,” said Doughty. “We have a selection of graphic t-shirts that have remained a constant good seller, handbags, a Razorback section, luggage, and we have expanded our plus size clothing section. We also recently started carrying floating charm lockets that we are very excited about.” Doughty is a military kid and grew up moving around a lot with her family. In 1977, they settled in Mena and she graduated from Mena High School in 1981. After leaving Mena for a few years, Doughty moved back when her oldest son was in the first grade. “Mena is such a hometown and gives that peace of Manufacturer mind that is invaluable. It’s a wonderful place to raise a family,” said Doughty. In 2000, Doughty married of Quality CNC Parts Dalton and together they have four children, Robby, Nicole, Morgan and Ryan, and two grandchildren, 479.394.4248 Hudson and Meredith. “I love being a mom, it gives you so much joy and happiness but it’s so easy to 104 Port Arthur Avenue put so much stress on yourself when your children are little, trying to make sure you raise them right. I’ve Mena, AR 71953-3344 found that once they are older you are able to become friends with them and I really enjoy that so much. My grandkids are my world; it’s true that life changes when you have them. Being a mom and a grandma means everything to me,” Doughty said. Dalton works full time as a manager at Smith Pallet and Rich Mountain Lumber in Hatfield but still manages to play a vital role at Charmed. “I’m so thankful for Dalton. He is as active in the business as I am, he is my sounding board and he keeps me grounded. He is the man behind the scenes and is a great maintenance man,” said Doughty with a smile. 703 F Hwy. 71 North “I want to thank all of our customers and the community and our friends and family for supporting us Mena, AR 71953 and helping us to be successful over the past seven years. We couldn’t do any of it without them. If you (479) 394-7766 haven’t been in the store in a while, now is a good time. We are constantly changing and rearranging and adding new items. We love the community of Polk County. The people here are so wonderful and come together for whatever is needed and give back. We have gotten to know so many people and I love all my customers. We always try to take the time to say hi and make them feel welcome,” said Doughty. Repairs done Charmed is open Monday through Saturday from in your home. 10 am until 6 pm and can be found on their Facebook page. Watch for their new website which will Bruce Erickson, Owner launch in 2015.
479-216-7270
811 4th Street, Mena
479-385-2136 or 479-385-1085 Mon.-Fri. 8:30 am - 5 pm • Sat. 8:30 am - 1 pm
Beasley-Wood Geyer-Quillin Funeral Home
“Serving your families with Dignity & Care for over 80 years” Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent Member of the National Funeral Directors Assoc.
611 Janssen, Mena, AR
(479) 394-1310
Bruce’s
Appliance Service
479-234-3570
ALIGNMENTS • BRAKES • OIL CHANGE
ONE STOP
479-394-4100
Everything Automotive Repair Shop!!
918 Hwy. 71 South • Mena, AR
• TIRES • SO MUCH MORE!
Full e c Servianic h c e M op Sh
479-394-4535 Open 7 Days a Week
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Page 20
SCHOOL
February 11, 2015
Cossatot River’s February Students of the Month The following students from Cossatot River has been selected for the February Students of the month: 7th Grade – Natalie Wilson and James Stark; 8th Grade – Emily McCarley and Dakota Frachiseur; 9th Grade – Becca Harris, Jacie Wilkerson, and Sebastian Medina; 10th Grade – Abby Taylor and Silas Barrett; 11th Grade – Kara Richardson and Ruben Garcia; 12th Grade – Cheyenne Bell and Jonathan Bagley.
Acorn High School Students Receive Awards Students in Mrs. Hays’ Food Production class received their ServSafe Certificates. They worked all semester studying and preparing for this state test. The following students passed this test and have acquired their certificates: Brandon Ward, Justice Owens, Samantha Moore Crawford, Brooke Bates, Ashton
Weekly Publication
MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/16 No School TUESDAY 2/17 Cereal, Toast, Diced Pears, Juice, Milk WEDNESDAY 2/18 French Toast Sticks, Sausage Link, Peaches, Juice, Milk THURSDAY 2/19 Breakfast Bar, Bread, Fruit, Juice, Milk FRIDAY 2/20 Poptart, Grapes, Juice, Milk MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/16 MAIN: No School TUESDAY 2/17 MAIN: Pepperoni Pizza, Tossed Salad, Baby Carrots, Oranges, Milk; CHOICE: Stombolli, Tossed Salad, Baby Carrots, Oranges, Milk WEDNESDAY 2/18 MAIN: Cheeseburger, Lettuce, Tomato, Pork N Beans, French Fries, Sliced Pears, Milk; CHOICE: Chicken Sandwich, Lettuce, Tomato, Pork N Beans, French Fries, Sliced Pears, Milk THURSDAY 2/19 MAIN: Chicken Patties, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Hot Roll, Banana, Milk; CHOICE: Steak Fingers, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Hot Roll, Banana, Milk FRIDAY 2/20 MAIN: Hot Ham & Cheese, Broccoli & Carrots, Fritos, Cookie, Fruit, Milk; CHOICE: Hoagie Sandwich, Broccoli & Carrots, Fritos, Cookie, Fruit, Milk ACORN SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/16 No School TUESDAY 2/17 Muffins, Fruit, Juice, Milk WEDNESDAY 2/18 Cereal, Fruit, Juice, Milk THURSDAY 2/19 Pancake on a Stick, Fruit, Juice, Milk FRIDAY 2/20 Super Donut, Fruit, Juice, Milk ACORN SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/16 No School TUESDAY 2/17 Chicken Fajitas, Pinto Beans, Lettuce, Tomato, Salsa, , Peaches, Milk WEDNESDAY 2/18 Cowboy Cavatina, Wheat Roll, Seasoned Corn, Tossed Salad, Applesauce, Milk THURSDAY 2/19 Taco Soup, Tortilla Chips, Salsa, Broccoli Florets, Pineapple Tidbits, Milk FRIDAY 2/20 Hot Dog, French Fries, California Blend Vegetables, Oatmeal Cookie, Assorted Fresh Fruit, Milk COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/16 No School TUESDAY 2/17 Sausage Roll, Craisins, Apple Juice, Milk WEDNESDAY 2/18 Cereal, Apple Wedges, Cherry Juice, Milk THURSDAY 2/19 Breakfast Pizza, Pineapple Orange Juice, Milk FRIDAY 2/20 Super Donut, Orange Wedges, Milk COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/16 No School TUESDAY 2/17 Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Potato Wedges, Carrots w/ Dressing, Mandarin Oranges, Milk WEDNESDAY 2/18 Chicken Crispito, Cheese Stick, Tossed Salad w/ Dressing, Peaches, Cookie Milk THURSDAY 2/19 Soft Taco, Lettuce/Tomato, Cheese, Salsa, Pinto Beans, Fruit Cocktail, Milk FRIDAY 2/20 Chicken Strips Macaroni & Cheese, Tossed Salad w/ Dressing, Pears, Roll, Milk
This weekly info proudly sponsored by:
GEORGE S. DAVIS STATE FARM AGENT SINCE 1964
Insurence with a name you know STATE FARM INSURENCE 624 Sherwood Avenue, Mena, AR
479.394.4521 Res. 479.394.1895
Page 21
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Acorn Kindergarten Celebrates 100th Day of School
SCHOOL
Acorn Elementary’s Kindergarten class recently celebrated the 100th day of school by decorating hats with 100 items each. The students used items such as buttons, plastic eyes, noodles, and beads. The students held a parade around the school, visiting each classroom, to show off their hats.
Mena’s Little Ladycats are Tri-County Champions
Mena’s 3rd grade Ladycats recently became League Champions and Tournament Champions in their Tri-County division. The girls have a record of 10-2. Pictured back row to front row are: Sophia Vacca, Heidi Wells, Caroline Cannon, Harlei McCourtney, Kiylee Hughes, Jancey Harris, Payton Clark and Laney Gilchrist. Coaches are Heather Goss & Gretchen Cannon. PICTURE PROVIDED BY SHELLEY GILCHRIST
Mena Baseball/Softball League
REGISTRATION OPEN
NOW thru February 27th
Ages 3-14
TO REGISTER go to TAPLEYSPORTS.COM or pick up a paper copy at City Hall or Tapley Park
Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
Contact 479-216-8171 for more information.
•394-1938• Owner: Stacy & Julie Nash
Page 22
SPORTS
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Ladycats Cruise Past Lady Badgers, 50-20
BY NORM BETZ The Mena Ladycats controlled every aspect of the game against Arkadelphia, defeating the Lady Badgers by 30 points, 50-20. Jacquelyn Johnson led all-scorers and the Ladycats with 11 points. With the victory Mena improved to 8-4 in 4A-7 Conference play and 12-11 overall on the season. The Ladycats opened up the game on a 15-0 run and led 17-5 at the end of the first quarter. Madelyn Brotherton guided the Ladycats in the first with a pair of lay-ups. Johnson and Kenzi Spurgin each drilled three-pointers, while Samantha Pearson knocked down three-of-four free throws. Marley Jones and Macy Brotherton each tossed in buckets to round out the opening quarter scoring. Arkadelphia opened the second quarter hitting a three-pointer and then the Ladycats went on a mini 6-0 run. Madelyn Brotherton and Johnson each hit two-of-two from the charity stripe, while Lexi Brooks drove the baseline and kissed one in off the glass. The Lady Badgers hit another three-ball and then each team closed out the second quarter scoring three points. Pearson made a great pass to Brooks who laid one in off the backboard, while Brooke Hines hit one-of-two from the stripe. The Ladycats took a 26-14 lead to the locker room at halftime. Mena came out and started the third quarter on an 8-1 run. Macy Brotherton led the Ladycats with a pair of lay-ups on the run. Johnson hit a 12-foot jumper and drove the lane with a lay-up to put Mena up, 34-15. The Ladycats closed out the third outscoring the Lady Badgers 11-3 in the final 3:25. Macy Brotherton tossed in the first two buckets from the paint, while Madelyn Brotherton and Johnson followed suits with lay-ups of their own. Keeley Jones closed out the third draining a three-pointer at the buzzer to give Mena a 45-18 lead at the end of the quarter. Brooks started off the final quarter with nailing a 14-foot jumper, while Hines threw one in off the glass to activate the mercy rule continuous clock and later hit one-of-two from the line. Arkadelphia’s only points came from the charity stripe with :40 to play in the game. The Ladycats won the 4A-7 Conference battle 50-20. Jacquelyn Johnson led all-scorers with 11 points, Macy Brotherton was the only other Ladycat in double digits with 10 points. Madelyn Brotherton added eight points, Lexi Brooks scored six points, Brooke Hines finished with four points, while Keeley Jones, Kenzi Spurgin and Samantha Pearson each scored three points. Marley (corner of Hwy 71S & Main Street.....Same building as State Farm Insurance George Davis) Jones rounded out the Ladycats scoring with two points. Mena shot 56% from the line (9-of-16), while Arkadelphia shot 58% (7-of-12).
MenCa Il Pr
imo Pizza
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OFFICE: 479.243.0033 • FAX: 479.394.1204 1341 SOUTH MENA STREET MENA, ARKANSAS 71953
Assisted Living
wants to welcome you . . .
243-2020
Hours:
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DELIVERY: 243-2036 Special orders at your convenience!
Page 23
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Bearcats Fall to Badgers, 62-45
WE DO
SPORTS
BY NORM BETZ The Mena Bearcats played tough, but ultimately fell to the Arkadelphia Badgers, 62-45, in a 4A-7 Conference game on Friday night at the Union Bank Center in Mena. Junior Jarrett Clibrey led the Bearcats with 15 points, while Arkadelphia’s Bryant Robinson led all-scorers with 25 points. The Bearcats kept pace with the Badgers in the opening quarter, grabbed the lead twice, but trailed 13-12 at the end of the first. Senior Sage Kesterson led the way in the first with a pair of lay-ups. Clibrey drilled a three-pointer, while senior Brandon Sibbitt and junior Kaleb Posey each added buckets. Junior Daniel Maechler rounded out the first quarter hitting one-of-two free throws. Mena outscored Arkadelphia 10-8 in the first six minutes of the second quarter to grab a 22-21 lead, but trailed the Badgers 24-22 at halftime. Junior Zak Terwilliger led the Bearcats with a 14-foot baseline jumper and a lay-up. All of the other Mena points came from the charity stripe. Junior Drew O’Brien and Clibrey each were perfect, hitting two-of-two, while Kesterson and junior Drew Plunkett each hit one-oftwo from the stripe. Mena trailed by two points, 24-22, as they headed to the locker room at halftime. The Bearcats had their lowest output of the game in the third quarter only scoring eight points, while the Badgers tacked on 13 points to lead 37-30 at the end of the quarter. Terwilliger and Clibrey were the only Bearcats to score in the quarter, each hitting lay-ups and each hitting two-of-two from the line. After trailing by one point at the end of the first quarter, two points at halftime and seven points at the end of the third, the Bearcats were outscored 25-15 in the final quarter to lose the 4A-7 conference game, 62-45. Clibrey led Mena in the final quarter hitting a pair from beyond the arc. Terwilliger received a sweet pass from Posey and laid it in off the glass and later added a three-pointer of his own, while Kesterson rounded out the Bearcats scoring with a lay-up and a pair of free throws. Jarrett Clibrey led the Bearcats with 15 points, Zak Terwilliger was the only other Bearcat in double digits with 13 points, Sage Kesterson finished with nine points, while Brandon Sibbitt, Kaleb Posey, and Drew O’Brien each added two points. Daniel Maechler and Drew Plunkett were each good for one point to round out the Mena scoring. Mena shot 68% from the line (13-of-19), while Arkadelphia shot a dismal 30%, hitting just 7-of-23 from the stripe. • Commercial/Residential • Contract Work • Service Work • Provide Bucket Truck and Backhoe Work • Generac Generator Dealer • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES
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Page 24
HEALTH
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Why Strength and Diet Play Key Roles in Our Health
BY LARRY WOOD Do I really need strength to train my body? Most of us, as we go through time, tend to forget about our youth and the abilities we had physically, particularly in the areas of strength, balance, coordination, and endurance. These physical attributes are most often written off because our society says that, as we get older and are no longer a competitive athlete, that we simply don’t need strength and endurance training for our bodies anymore. This thinking is far from the truth and has literally cost our society millions and millions of hard earned dollars. What I mean by that statement is, as we get older it seems the doctor visits increase and sometimes the visits are serious and usually due to physical negligence. Have you ever thought about what you did when you were much younger and playing sports or just being a kid? Jumping, running, bounding, climbing, crawling, and whatever else you wanted to do with relative ease. Then, say 20 or more years later you find it hard, if not impossible, to do even one of those physical tasks that you use to do. Why you may ask? Well, number one, as you got out into real life and started your career you no longer found the time to keep your body doing the things it was accustomed to doing in those earlier years. Our society tells us that we need to slow things down physically because we’re older and doing these types of physical feats will injure us. Well, the truth of the matter is, that by not keeping our bodies strong and durable we are setting ourselves up for mechanical breakdown. Think about how you treat your automobile or your house. If you change the oil at the appropriate time along with all of the filters, tires, plugs, and batteries that vehicle will perform correctly for a very long time. Regular maintenance on the house will assure a dry, warm, cool, and solid dwelling place. Neglect proper care of either of these belongings and they will breakdown and fail you much sooner than they should. Now, how about that bio-machine we call the human body? We have to understand that our bodies are not immune to wear and tear and will break down if not properly cared for. Why do we think we are invincible? What do I mean by this? More times than not we will wait until something breaks down before we give our bodies physical attention. The only problem now is this means we have to have doctor’s intervention because of the breakdown in our machine. Now, drugs have to be introduced to get the condition under control and this means more toxins get put into our delicate systems. It’s interesting that when you go to the doctor to get help, most of the time they will encourage you to start exercising and utilizing better nutrition. You know, I bet you have never seen a Nascar racing vehicle pull up to any of our gasoline stations and fill their tank. Have you ever thought of why not? The simple answer is the fuel is not good enough for those fine-tuned racing machines. Now relate that to the human body. Our bio-machines are so much more delicate and sophisticated than those race cars but we constantly fill-up with low grade fuels. Now you see why we have so many health problems. If you will simply get on a good strength and nutrition program you can avoid many unnecessary breakdowns and save thousands and thousands of dollars. If you keep your strength you will keep your balance and coordination. This means your activities of daily living can be performed much easier and with certainty. Let’s stop the falling and breaking of bones and many of the other health problems we encounter like diabetes and high blood pressure by participating in expert advice and professional care only here at Ouachita Wellness and Sports Center. Hope to see you soon.
Healthy Connections, Inc., Continues FREE Dental Fridays
SUBMITTED Healthy Connections, Inc., would like to remind the community about their Free Dental Friday program. The program is for patients with no dental insurance and provides new patient limited exams, x-rays, and non surgical extractions. Forms are available at Healthy Connections 136 Health Park Dr., Mena Monday – Thursday from 8 am to 5:30 pm. Registration forms need to be picked up in advance and returned prior to Friday’s appointment. Clients for Free Dental Fridays will be seen on the following days: February 27, 2015 doors open at 8:00am until maximum patients have been served. March 27, 2015 doors open at 8:00am until maximum patients have been served. April 24, 2015 doors open at 8:00am until maximum patients have been served. Free follow up vouchers will be provided after initial exam. Free Dental Fridays is made possible through a grant from the Blue & You Foundation in the amount of $54,618 to provide emergency dental care and education to residents in Polk County.
Seeking Answers Through Prayer February 17th • 9 am - 5 pm
You are invited to a time of prayer for our community. A time when others will pray with you or you may just spend time alone with the Lord. Many problems exist today, none too big for God. “Jesus looked at them and said, “with man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” Matthew 19:26 “You who answer prayer, to you all people will come.” Psalm 65:2
503 Morrow St. South • Mena, AR 71953 ~ Pastor Ken Goodwin
Please feel free to join us • ALL ARE WELCOME
Page 25
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
BEATS
* Mena Head Start is taking applications for preschool children 3-5 and Early Head Start Children, birth – 3. The program is free to those who qualify. For an application, come by Mena Head Start at 606 Pine Avenue, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. For more information, call 479-4373733. * Through March 4 – Mena Art Gallery’s Fiber Arts Show. Gallery hours are Tuesday 11:00 – 2:00 p.m. and Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Thursday 2/12 * 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Polk County/Mena meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 2163383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more info. * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters In Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:30 p.m. - Weight Watchers - meet at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. * 5:30 p.m. – Polk County Cancer Support Group meets at the Union Bank Community Room. Cancer patients, survivors and caregivers are invited. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous
Friday 2/13 * Noon – 3:00 p.m. – Mena Art Gallery will be offering a Kumihimo or Japanese Braiding class. Participants will make a beaded bracelet. A $20 fee will be charged for the bracelet and clasp. To keep the tools used in making the bracelet, an additional fee of $5 will be charged. Space is limited so call 3943880 to reserve a spot. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Fiber Group will meet at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Come and bring your project and join this group working with a variety of fibers. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – The Writer’s Guild will meet in the classroom at Mena Art Gallery. 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting - 812 Hwy 71 South, Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Saturday 2/14 * 10:00 – 12 Noon – Ouachita Photography Club meeting at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena, For info, call 394-7396 or 2164606. Sunday 2/15 * 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall.
Monday 2/16 * 5:00 p.m. – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), Hatfield City Hall. For more information call 870-389-6678. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo, American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 6:00 p.m. – FREE Weightloss Warriors – First National Bank across from Depot. For information call 437-3560. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome to attend. * 7:00 p.m. – Ouachita Beekeepers Association monthly meeting at Lime Tree Restaurant. 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – 12 +12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Tuesday 2/17 * 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission will be open in the 9th Street Ministries building. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day”, Mena Art gallery, 607 Mena Street. Bring your current project and join other artists working in the classroom at the gallery. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – FREE Delicious Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen, Mena Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk Rd 43 (Fairground Road), Mena,, 479-394-7404. Take –out is available. All are welcome! * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters in Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:30 p.m. – Art Awareness Presentation at Mena Art Gallery by Suzanne Manis. She will be teaching about the art of pottery. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous
Check out our online calendar of events at MyPulseNews.com
Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S, Mena. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. For information 479-234-2887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday 2/18 * 11:30 a.m. Polk County Retired Teachers’ meeting at New China Restaurant, program by Ruby Hartsfield. She will be teaching an art lesson on sumi, Chinese style of art. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – Book Study, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606.
CALENDAR
– meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall.
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
Page 26
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
HOME & GARDEN
Small Changes for Better Health
BY KIM HUGHES, COUNTY EXTENSION AGENT, FCS We’ve all heard how most Americans need to get more physical activity. Two-thirds of people in the United States weigh more than they should and nearly three-quarters don’t get the recommended 30 minutes of physical activity on most days. As the days get longer and warmer, think about participating in Walk Across Polk County, an 8-week walking and exercise program that can help you achieve your goals of better health. Here are some tips to get you started: • Look for opportunities to reduce sedentary time and increase active time. For example, instead of watching TV, try taking a walk after dinner. • Just as you schedule medical appointments, schedule time for physical activity. Write it on your calendar; then when asked to do something, you can honestly say you already have plans. • Start with activities, locations, and times you enjoy. For example, some people might like walking in their neighborhood in the mornings; others might prefer an exercise class at a health club after work. • Try activities with friends or family members to help with motivation and mutual encouragement. Knowing a friend is meeting you at the track at 6 am may motivate you to not turn off the alarm and go back to sleep. • Start slowly and work your way up to more physically challenging activities. Remember, small steps add up, so make them count! • When necessary, break up your daily activity goal into smaller amounts of time. For example, you could break the 30-minute a day recommendation into three 10-minute sessions or two 15-minute sessions. Just make sure the shorter sessions are at least 10 minutes long. To help you begin making these small steps, get eight friends together and form a team for Walk Across Polk County. Originally begun as a walking program, it has expanded to include all types of exercise, and minutes are counted instead of miles. The registration deadline is March 13, with the program beginning on Sunday, March 22. The $10 per person fee covers a blood test before and after the program to check cholesterol and blood sugar. To find out more about this exercise program sponsored by the Extension Service and Quality of Life Outreach, Inc., contact Kim Hughes at 211 DeQueen Street, Mena, or call 479-394-6018.
N O T I C E Life & Health Insurance Annuities Medicare Supplements Long Term Care Financial Planning
I’m certified & licensed with several companies, and I can get you the BEST PRICE! Call: LaDon Copelin CLU, ChFC, CFP® 3015 Hwy. 71 S, Mena • 479-394-5570 AR License #15429 - OK License #40117342
Rich Mountain Lumber
Hatfield, Arkansas Currently buying delivered Pallet Wood, Pulp Wood, and Pine Pulp Wood. Call for NEW prices. Buying standing timber and timberland
Please Call 870-389-6464 For a free estimate of your standing timber or timberland
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
Page 27 Weekly Publication
February 11, 2015
ARTS
It’s Show Time! Dixie Swim Club Opens Valentine’s Day
BY JUDY THOMPSON Since December 2 when auditions were held, The Dixie Swim Club has been a work in progress. After weeks of preparation, the play opens Friday, February 13, 7:30 at the Ouachita Little Theatre. On Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14, as a part of the Valentine’s Dinner Theatre, the play will be moved to Mena Mountain Resort. This event will consist of a delicious dinner served in a beautiful setting and the very popular play, The Dixie Swim Club. Dinner begins at 6:30 PM, with the play following at 7:30. Reservations are $30 per person and may be made by calling 394-3110. Reservations are required. The playwrights for this production (Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten) have their plays being produced at theatres throughout the United States and numerous other countries. Jones, Hope and Wooten each have outstanding credentials and together they are recognized as some of the greatest current playwrights. This delightfully humorous play has a cast of veteran actresses. Deborah Tennison portrays Sheree, the somewhat ‘bossy’ organizer; Diana Bernardini is Jeri Neal, the little ray of sunshine; and Amanda Stipe is the flirtatious Lexi. Jessica Kropp plays the downtrodden Vernadette while Jennifer McPherson is the ‘workaholic’ lawyer. However, as with real life, things (and personalities) sometimes change. The play returns to OLT for the final weekend, February 20 – 22. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 PM with the Sunday matinee beginning at 2:30. Friday (February 13 and 20) and Sunday admissions are $8.00 and $5.00 for students and seniors 60 and over. Saturday, February 21, is another special effort, “Girls Night Out”, and includes a light dinner at American Artisans and browsing at The Fair Lady Boutique and the Mena Art Gallery. Serving begins at 6:00 PM at the Artisans with the play starting at 7:30 PM. As this is a play about friends, ladies are encouraged to gather their friends to attend. Tickets are $19.00 ($16.00 for students and seniors) and are available at Arvest Bank. There is a limited number of tickets for sale. Director is Judy Kropp with Judy Thompson assisting. Director Kropp advises that because of a few ‘expressive’ words, the play rating is PG-13. She also adds that both men and women will enjoy The Dixie Swim Club.
Mena Art Gallery Has New Executive Director
“BY” THE WAY: BYGONE • BYLAW • BYLINE • BYPASS • BYPLAY • BYPRODUCT • BYRE • BYROAD • BYRON • BYSTANDER • BYTE • BYWAY • BYWORD • BYZANTINE • CABBY • CRABBY • GABBY • GRUBBY • HOBBY • LOBBY • LULLABY • NEARBY • RUBY • RUGBY • SCRUBBY • STUBBY • WALLABY
BY BARBARA M. TOBAIS Julie Vande Zande took over as Executive Director for Mena Art Gallery on January 1, 2015. Julie has extensive experience in marketing and management and plans to use those skills as well as her formidable organizational capabilities to continue the development that our previous directors have started. In particular, Julie is interested in expanding the things the gallery provides for children. She says, “That’s where it all starts.” She plans to get acquainted with all of the art teachers in our local schools to see how the gallery and its member artists can assist with their work with children. Julie also wants to visit all the businesses in town to find ways to work with them. “We are open to any ideas they have.” Julie moved to Mena from Wisconsin, and loves it here. She says Mena is home now. Stop by the gallery to meet her; you’ll find her there from about 11 am to 2 pm on Tuesdays as well as 10 am to noon on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Page 28
February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Moments From American History The Lincoln Memorial
HISTORY
BY JEFF OLSON It has been an American tradition for many years to honor America’s presidents during the month of February. We will do so now for Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president (1861-1865). He was born on February 12, 1809 in Hardin County, Kentucky. Few presidents came from more humble beginnings and faced greater odds and challenges in their lifetime. Abraham Lincoln: failed in business in 1831; was defeated for legislature in 1832; lost his job and couldn’t get into law school; declared bankruptcy, and spent the next 17 years of his life paying off the money he borrowed from friends to start his business; was defeated for the legislature again in 1834; suffered a broken heart when the girl he was engaged to died in 1835; had a nervous breakdown in 1836 and spent the next six months in bed; was defeated in becoming the speaker of the state legislature in 1838; was defeated in becoming an elector in 1840; was defeated for Congress in 1844 and 1848; was rejected for the job of Land Officer in his home state in 1849; was defeated for the Senate in 1854; was defeated for Vice-President in 1856; and was defeated for the Senate for the third time in 1858. On November 6, 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected President of the United States. Lincoln’s greatness is most often attributed to his leadership as America’s president during the Civil War, but the balance of his life demonstrates that greatness, first and foremost, originates in personal virtue. He came by his nickname “Honest Abe” quite honestly. As but one example, when he was a young storekeeper in New Salem, IL, he accidentally shortchanged a customer by six and a quarter cents. Upon discovering the error, he walked 6 miles to pay the money back. Though he failed in more endeavors than he succeeded, Lincoln came to see failure only as a decision to give up. In his words, “The path was worn and slippery. My foot slipped from under me, knocking the other out of the way, but I recovered and said to myself, it’s a slip and not a fall.” In his quest for and commitment to public service, he stated “The sense of obligation to continue is present in all of us. A duty to strive is the duty of us all. I felt a call to that duty.” Tributes to Abraham Lincoln can be found in many places in America, but none can compare to that which stands beside the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. It was 100 years ago this month, February 12, 1915, that the cornerstone for the Lincoln Memorial was laid. Designed by Henry Bacon in the style of a Greek temple, the marble building is surrounded by thirtysix Doric columns which symbolize the thirty-six states in the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death. Inside, a colossal size statue of a seated Lincoln looks eastward toward the Washington Monument and Capitol Building. The statue, carved from blocks of white Georgia marble by the Piccirilli brothers under the supervision of Daniel Chester French, is 19 feet high and weighs 175 tons. It is the second most famous sculpture in America, after the Statue of Liberty. The side sections of the walls have tablets with the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address, and two wall paintings by Jules Guerin. As one of the nation’s most beloved monuments, it is also one of the most widely publicized by virtue of the fact that it appears on the back of every penny and five-dollar bill. If you ever visit Washington, D.C., the Lincoln Memorial is a must-see. It is not only a tribute to a president, but more importantly it is a tribute to those American ideals which are at the core of our nation’s greatness.
SERVICES: • Bookkeeping • Compilations, Reviews and Contractor’s Licenses • Payroll Services
Lori Johnston, CPA, Manager Joseph Sanford, CPA Kelli McCurry Stan Johnston Bambi Sharp 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
IN THE NEWS One Year Ago LOCAL
1. ‘Mena’ - A Movie Script Reportedly Sells for $1 Million on CIA Cartel Drug Runner - Ron Howard ‘Slated’ to be Director 2. Record Setting Temperatures Leading to Higher Electric Bills - Utility Companies and Local Agencies Available to Help 3. Polk County Mayors Endorsing Upcoming 1-Cent County-Wide Tax Vote on March 11
NATIONAL
1. State Dinner for France’s Hollande May Get Awkward After His Breakup 2. Small Businesses Get One-Year Reprieve From Obamacare Employer Mandate 3. House GOP Hones in on Debt-Ceiling Plan Tied to Military Pension Benefits
Page 29 Weekly Publication
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SELECTED RESPONSES TO OUR RANDOM QUESTIONS OF THE DAY:
WHAT DO YOUR CHILDREN DO THAT MAKES YOU THE MOST PROUD?
Sherry Green L Davis They love The Lord! Stacy Smith-Frost Set and read the bible!!
Rachel Lance Both our girls make us proud. They live a God fearing life and my oldest daughter is a wonderful, loving mom. Laura Kiersey Having a servant’s heart and always willing to help someone out. Carla White All 3 of my children make me proud! BUT it melts my heart when, just out of the blue, they tell me they love me and I know they love me unconditionally. No matter how cranky I get........... Phyllis Caldwell When my children stop what they are doing to help someone, friend or stranger
Jennie Brock Shane Hall When they are not doing for themselves but they do for others Leah Nicole Burt My daughter gets good grades in school! Christine Frost-Bowles All 4 of my children graduated high school, love the Lord & been baptized they call or check in on me daily. Kathie Robertson Kiser Being great parents in every way. Bonnie Dilbeck Rippe All 5 of my children make me proud by being themselves, being strong willed and always there to help anyone in need. They have grown into very fine young adults and I am happy and anxious to see what the future holds for them.
Todd Ham My 2yr old son doesn’t let us miss an “amen” at meal times, and my daughter loves to say the blessing.
Dianne Rosson help others
Zieka Hough Davison Being diligent to Pray and seek God in their life . As well as bravely try knew things , which I have a terrible time doing.
Brenda Godbehere Forga All my children make me proud but my son has a shoe ministry. He provides shoes to needy children. Teachers and DHS contact him when they see a need. This is wonderful thing. Do proud of him
Cathy Guin Martin Teach my grandchildren to love the Lord and pray.
Luann Barton Nogle They are great parents.
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#LOL One Condition Phil, a smart and handsome young man, dressed in the latest fashion, walked into this local pub. He noticed a woman gazing at him without blinking her big eyes. Phil felt flattered so he walked up to the woman and said in his deepest voice, “I’ll do anything you wish, beautiful lady, for just $10 but on one condition.” The woman appeared to be trapped in the moment and asked as if in a trance, “What’s your condition?” Phil answered, “Tell me your wish in just three words.” There was a long pause, the woman opened her purse, counted out the money and handed it to the man along with her address. She then looked deeply into his eyes and whispered, “Clean my house.”
Online Dating 101
#MyPulseNews
What’s Your
February 11, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK Being single in a world such as ours, especially with Valentine’s Day around the corner, can bring on many feelings. Some embrace the lifestyle and feel a sense of freedom where others may feel insecure or just long for their soul mate to rush into their lives and knock them off of their feet. Whatever the reason for wanting a mate, there are more solutions than you would ever dream to find the perfect match for you. Long gone are the days of going to your favorite hang out to search for the man, or woman, of your dreams. Everything you’re searching for and more can be found at the tips of your fingers. Internet dating began in the early ‘90s and has since become a booming industry worth $1.2 trillion and has more members than some religions! To my surprise, through research, I have discovered there are more than 41 million people, from ages 18 – 80 +, in the U.S. alone that have tried some form of online dating. That is over 76% of our population! Reasons for the popularity of internet dating vary. For some, being able to get to know someone before you meet, working out all of the ‘quirks’ before having to face someone you may not otherwise like, and not having to ‘dress up’ for someone you’ve just met, can decrease the anxiety of dating woes. We also have less time than ever before and, less patience. You can imagine with 41 million people trying to find a date, there has to be more than a handful of sites that devote their time to finding your perfect mate. So which one of the thousands of sites would you choose? How would you choose? After all, finding a mate is one of the most important decisions you will ever make, right? Many dating sites have shown great success in their methods. Sites such as Match.com, eHarmony, ChristianMingle, and PlentyofFish have a large percentage of success stories. Lasting relationships and marriage testimonials grace their pages. These sites take general information and try to match it with someone compatible and the talking, texting, emailing, and dating begins. The love stories are truly touching, some being worthy of the silver screen. Other sites try to focus on more specific interests. Such as Farmers Only – a dating site solely to match farmers with farmers. Or, SingleswithFoodAllergies.com, who work to find someone with the same food allergies as you. Other interest specific sites focus on matching your DNA to a partner that has similar features or that would create a ‘well blended’ child. That sort of seems like you’re in the fast food line…“Um, yes, I’ll take a #1: Genius with a good sense of humor on the side, athletic ability, and the most handsome face ever!” Going a little far with that one? There are sites for golfers, swimmers, hunters, salad lovers, cat lovers, sci-fi aliens, and geeks2geeks…you name it, and there is probably a site for it! Some of these dating methods make total sense. However, as with most subjects, the bazaar is just around the corner. ‘Fetish’ dating sites are popping up around the web daily and most will give you chills or at least a horror story or two. Beware of these sites! They’re ‘fact checking’ isn’t top of the line and they are the most prone to sexual predators. Some of the milder fetish sites include StachePassions for you mustache lovers out there, PositiveSingles for those that suffer from STDs, and NaturistPassion for the nudists at heart. Whatever your tastes are, there is most likely a dating site for you. My advice: Research, research, research! Research the sites, and most of all, research your choice for a mate. There are many success stories but, there are horror stories as well. Check the facts and maybe you too can find your forever mate. Until next time, Happy Dating!
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• She’s Back! Hebert Opens Stache’s Cookery • Loulla Bell’s Boutique – Bringing Southern Style to the Masses • Ouachita River School & RMCC Partnership Provides Unique Opportunity for Those Willing to Take Advantage of It
• Adorable Kitten Watches Snow Fall for the First Time • Boy Jumps from Burning Building, Saving his Dog and Himself • Live Weather-Map Malfunction Keeps Reporter on His Toes
Page 30
POLICE
February 11, 2015 The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
Mena Police Department February 1, 2015 No reports filed. February 2, 2015 A local resident reported that someone had gained entry into his unlocked house and had taken prescription medications, several cell phones, a class ring, a scanner and at least two hunting knives. Case is pending. Eric Thacker, 27, of Mena was charged with criminal trespass and unlawful removal of a theft tracking device. February 3, 2015 Report was taken of a verbal dispute between housemates at a local residence. Neither party wished to leave, nor did they wish to press charges. The altercation had ended when officers arrived. February 4, 2015 Jonathan Lee Spears, 45, was charged with second degree battery and possession of schedule VI controlled substance after a call to a local residence. A local woman reported that someone had broken into her apartment by forcing the lock on the front door. She could find nothing missing. Case is pending. A local man reported that a weed eater had been stolen from his carport. He believes he knows who stole it, but did not wish to press charges, so the case has been closed. February 5, 2015 A Polk County woman reported that her cell phone had been stolen while she was checking out at a local retail store. Store surveillance shows a suspect surreptitiously hiding the phone, then walking away with it. Case is pending identifying suspect and further investigation. An employee at a local convenience store notified officers that a small baggie of a green leafy substance had fallen out of the wallet of a customer, and that the customer was unaware of having lost it. The clerk turned the evidence over to police, and it was subsequently destroyed. February 6, 2015 No reports filed.
Weekly Publication February 7, 2015 No reports filed. Officers completed an additional 10 reports and worked five accidents. Polk County Sheriff’s Department February 2, 2015 Report of a one vehicle accident on Highway 88 West near Mena led to Citations being issued to Naomi B. Curry, 35, of Mena, on Charges of Careless/Prohibited Driving and No Vehicle License. February 3, 2015 Arrested was Jessica M. Fox, 33, of Mena, on a Warrant for two counts of Introducing a Controlled Substance into Another’s Body. Report from complainant on Highway 8 East near the Board Camp community of receiving harassing communications from an acquaintance. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Polk 293 near Mena of vandalism to a mailbox. Arrested was Eric L. Smith, 38, of Wickes, on a Body Attachment Warrant. February 4, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 414 near Hatfield of the theft of a sign, valued at $50.00. Investigation continues. Arrested was Stephens R. Goins, 40, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. February 5, 2015 Traffic stop on Highway 71 South near Hatfield led to the arrest of Joshua M. Montrose, 29, of Cove, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear. Arrested was Terry H. Brown, 55, of Mena, on Charges of Possession of Schedule VI Controlled Substance and Possession of an Instrument of Crime and Warrants for five counts of Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report from complainant on Highway 71 South in Hatfield of the theft of a tire and rim, valued at $250.00. Investigation continues. Arrested was Charles D. Miner, 41, of Greenwood, on a Body Attachment Warrant. Arrested was Donnie R. Dollarhyde, 41, of Mena, on Warrants for two counts of Failure to Appear. Also arrested was Martin W. Dollarhyde, 40, of Mena, on a Charge of Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License. Report from an Amity woman of problems with a Hatfield man regarding custody exchange. February 6, 2015 Report from complainant on Highway 88 East in the Yocana community of a missing license plate. Arrested was John P. Ramirez, 31, of DeQueen, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Arrested was Amber D. Crabtree, 26, of Mena, on Warrants for Forgery and Absconding.
February 7, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 136 near Cove of receiving suspicious mail. Report from a Mena man of the theft of $2,140.00 cash. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 32 near Cove of trash being dumped on a deer lease. Investigation continues. Arrested was Leslie N. Gillaspy, 37, of Wickes, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Traffic stop on West Barton Street in Cove led to the arrest of Kathleen L. Parker, 29, of Cove, on Charges of No Vehicle License and No Liability Insurance and Warrants for Failure to Comply with a Court Order and Violation of the Arkansas Hot Check Law.
February 8, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 26 near Hatfield of an individual that had violated an Order of Protection. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested were Jacquelyn D. Martindale, 26, of Cove, and Karen R. Baggett, 31, of Mena, each on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked two vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 27 Incarcerated Inmates; 13 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 2 are currently out of jail on a monitoring system.
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February 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID. Ad deadline is 5 p.m. on Monday. Payment is due with ad. Publishing and distributing 8,000 copies weekly. Clean & Comfortable Housing since 1969, J Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals, Hwy 71 N., Mena, 479394-1252. TFN For Rent – 3 bedroom, 1 bath, mobile home. No Pets. Call 394-2617 or 234-6062. INTFN Concrete and Backhoe Work – Licensed, Dependable, Experienced. William J. (Jack) Barnes. 479-394-6175 or 479-234-2608. 2/11 Free 1 year old Australian Shepherd, female, please leave name and phone number. 394-3939. 2/11
Books & Stuf, 704 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas – we sell & trade paperbacks, hardbacks, & audio books. Come & see. 3/11
For Sale 1991 Ford 1 ton Flat bed 87,000 origInal miles $1,400.00. Call (479) 216-6638 or (479) 216-8176
3/4
For Sale: Solid Wood Espresso Console/Sofa Table with drawer and bottom shelf. In good condition. Asking $200. Call or text 479-216-3091. TFN/INH
1990 GMC “Rally STX” 12 pax 1 ton Wagon Van, 5.7L V8, 3 dr, 86,700 miles, used as a Church van, good body, interior, engine and transmission, - $1,250.00. First United Methodist Church, Mena, AR 479-3943051 2/25
Professional, Attentive, Compassionate in-home elder care for you or the person who means the world to you by an experienced, Licensed Practical Nurse. With me, you are not just a patient; you are a person first. Affordable rates. Excellent care. References to back it up. Missy Cost, LPN 501802-2804
Rocky Service Center General Service on Ford Tractors & New Holland Equipment Vermeer Balers/Kuhn Mowers Bush-Hog Cutters & Mowers Tires Repaired Automotive/AG New Tires Available Oil Changes & Scheduled Maintenance on most equipment Round Baler Belts Relaced/Welding Call for Appointment
479-234-1396 Winter Hours: 9 am - 3 pm Pick up and Delivery on most equipment
2/18
I buy gold jewelry, scrap, dental and sterling silver. Also buying U.S. pre 65 Silver Coins one ounce silver and gold rounds and bars. Check with the rest, but sell to the best. Dan’s Cash-N-Gun. 100 Hwy 71 S at 1st Street, Mena. 479-394-5515.
TFN/
For Rent mobile home, 2 bedroom, 1 bath. No Pets. Call 394-4037 or 2346062. INTFN
CLASSIFIEDS
UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1
Wanted Near Mena small lot for mobile home prefer near utilities. Call 479-243-0523 2/11 J & N Dozer - Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357. TFN
Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair and painting. Small to medium jobs. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068 3/11 Infant/Toddler Teacher: Education and Experience – Current CDA with infant/ toddler endorsement. AA/BA degree in ECE with emphasis on infant/toddler development and experience working with infants/toddlers. Preschool Teacher: Associate, baccalaureate or advanced degree in ECE with previous experience working with preschool-age children. Program Aide: Education and Experience – High school /GED Contact Save the Children Head Start Human Resources 479-567-5701 of www. 2/11 savethechildren.org/careers
Job Opportunity The Pulse is seeking a Sales Representative/Marketing Specialist. Qualified candidates will be creative, highly motivated with excellent communication skills and able to multi-task in a fast paced environment. Base pay with commission based on performance. NO PHONE INQUIRIES. Interested parties may submit a resume to 1168 Hwy 71 South or email to editor@polkcountypulse.com.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Red Hot Deals You Will
2014 Chevy Malibu MSRP - $35,855
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2014 Chevy Cruze
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X5641
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February 11, 2015
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