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February 17, 2016
THE POLK COUNTY
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1168 Hwy 71 S • Mena, AR 71953 • 479-243-9600 ...............................................................................................................................................................................
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Investigations Underway Following Officer Involved Shooting BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com
Officers with the Mena Police Department are currently investigating an officer-related shooting that occurred around 12 p.m. today on the corner of Reeves and Reine Streets in Mena. According to witnesses, the incident began with what appeared to be a routine traffic stop. Mena Police Chief Brandon Martin released a statement Tuesday afternoon saying that the suspect involved in the shooting was pronounced dead at Mena Regional Health System. He added that two investigations are currently underway, “The Arkansas State Police is investigating the shooting and an internal investigation as to whether policy was followed.” Also on the scene were members of the Polk County Sheriff’s Department and the 18th West Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Authorities can not release any other information at this time in order to protect the integrity of the investigation and the case. If other details are released by the authorities, they will be available at MyPulseNews.com and KENA 104.1FM.
PROJECT MORGAN:
Cleaning Up Goliath’s Litter
Lawsuit Filed in Polk County Continues in Federal Court BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com
Several lawyers are due in federal court this week after filing a class-action lawsuit in Polk County Circuit Court last year. The case could see almost two dozen lawyers receive ethical sanctions from U.S. Chief District Judge P.K. Holmes of Fort Smith. The case, Adams v. United States Automobile Association, was originally filed in Holmes’ court, however, after sitting for months, both the CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
Loar Claims ‘Best Warrior’ Title BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com
Staff Sergeant Joshua Loar has been named as Arkansas National Guard’s Best Warrior following a grueling three-day competition at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock. Loar is a graduate of Acorn High School in 2001 and has served in the military for 14 years in the infantry division. Out of the ten soldiers that competed, Spc. Benjamin Mitchell won the Soldier category and Loar won the NCO (non-commissioned officers) category as the 2016 Arkansas National Guard Best Warrior.
[PHOT O COURTESY OF MICHAEL CATE
Flood debris from a late December storm continues to cover much of the Ouachita River banks but one determined middle school student is spearheading efforts to clean it up. Find out more about Morgan Puckett’s efforts on page 22.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
www.washburns.com Mon-Fri 8:30 to 6:00 • Sat 9:00 - 3:00 (479) 394-4332 • (888) 394-4332
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Mark Hobson [PHOTO BY MELANIE BUCK] Crime scene tape immediately circled the pumps at Kess’ Korner where Tuesday’s officer involved shooting occurred. As of press time, officials were unable to release any further information other than to say that the Mena Police Officer involved was “fine.”
Area Valentine Celebrations
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Valentine’s Day fun was had by many around the county as citizens treated each other to flowers, ballons, stuffed animals, and more. Upper Photos: PCDC Adult Education and Wellness Center celebrated a little early with plenty of sweet treats and dancing. Clients at the center crowded the floor as the music blared. Laughter and smiles covered the room. Lower photos: At the Mena Senior Center on Saturday, February 13, a dinner was served, music was played by Gator and Friends, and the longest sweethearts were recognized. Bob and Peggie Shores of Waldron have been married for close to 61 years and were still happy to hold each other close during a slow dance. Also shown is Judith Roberson giving dateless patrons the opportunity to ‘smooch a pooch’.
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The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County 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 Pulse Multi-Media. MyPulseNews.com currently has an on-line audience of 24,000 giving us a combined readership of 32,000. 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 Pulse Multi-Media and/ or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media & 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.
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Union Bank Donates Funds for Acorn Scoreboards
Phillip Hensley, president of Union Bank of Mena is pictured (center right) with Ouachita River School District Superintendent Jerry Strasner (center left), donating funding to pay for new scoreboards at Acorn igh School’s new baseball and softball fields. Both fields are e pected to be complete by the end of March.
The CALL of Polk County to Launch This Saturday C
hildren are not a distraction from more important work; they are the most important work. This q uote by C.S. Lewis is a reminder of the opportunities and responsibilities one has in establishing a better future for G od’s greatest gift, children. There are approxi mately 35 children in DCFS foster homes from Polk County, but with a limited number of foster homes available in the area, only 20% of these children have the opportunity to remain in the county; that means four out of five children will leave their families, schools, and core support systems. In the majority of DCFS cases, reunification is the goal, but at times adoption is the healthiest option, however, resources available can hinder the possibility of achieving these goals for the local children; therefore, more support is necessary. The abuse and neglect that brings children into care calls for a stable, supportive family to help them grow; they need a “ healing place for kids to call home.” The CALL of Polk County is a Christian, non-profit organization that is working to bridge the gap by recruiting, training, and supporting families to open their homes to foster care or adoption. Local members of our community have answered their own “ call” to support and grow the availability of homes in Polk County. Je nnifer B rewer, Polk County Coordinator, discusses the progression of The CALL in Polk County and how the organization has planned its launch for February 19 th. With compassion, humility, and authenticity, Je nnifer discusses the goals of seeking an “ organic group of people working to intercede for the families in need of these services.” Je nnifer states that the initial meeting held in Polk County, led to 7 0 individuals exp ressing a passion and desire to work toward creating a portfolio of homes available with q uality care. The CALL collaborates with DCFS and CASA [ Court Appointed Special Advocates] a v a ila b le . on both state and local levels to meet the needs of children and families. Volunteers are necessary and welcome on multiple levels it is emphasized that while opening your home to foster or adopt may not be where you are led, that there is a basic need for “ prayer, basic house cleaning, donating supplies, groceries, providing lawn care, meals, attending court and medical appointments with involved families, respite, financial donations, and even helping with car maintenance for those transporting the
January 6, 2016
Th e Po l k Co u n t y H o u s i n g Au t h o r i t y has apartments located in MENA, HATFIELD, COVE AND WICKES APPL I CANTS ARE NEED ED
No t a l l b e d r o o m
s iz e s a n d lo c a tio n s a r e im m e d ia te ly
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.
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Try our
ACTUAL RENT IS BASED ON INCOME
NEW MILK SHAKES: Turtle Shake or Strawberry Cream Cheese Shake
WE CONDUCT A CREDIT AND CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND APPLICANTS MUST MEET INCOME GUIDELINES. POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTIES ARE “SMOKE-FREE”
for ONLY $1.49
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
Our Yearly Valentine Shakes: Sweetheart or Be Mine
409 Hwy. 71 N, Mena • 479-394-5550
$1.49
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Soliz Continues in Campora’s Footsteps MRHS Support Foundation’s Color BY LEANN DILBECK • editor@mypulsenews.com BY MELANIE BUCK Run is Back! news@mypulsenews.com former Mena resident received a notable
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recognition during his graduation as the agency’s only Mexi can AG FC ( Arkansas G ame Fish Commission) officer, and one that he holds a close parallel to. B ernie Soliz’ s peers in the academy voted for him to receive the Jo el Campora Achievement Award. Campora died in the line of duty on May 1, 201 , along with fellow law enforcement officer, Scott County Sheriff Cody Carpenter while the two were attempting to rescue two women trapped in their home that was consumed by overnight oodwaters near -City. Soliz said the two ( he and Campora’s) lives are paralleled in many regards. B efore the two both became AGFC officers, they started in law enforcement in Polk County and later transferred to Montgomery County where, in fact, Soliz rented the same Mt. Ida home as the Camporas. They both had both served as youth directors at Salem B aptist Church in Nunley. Soliz had never met Campora’s family until the summer after his passing when Salem B aptist dedicated its VB S to Campora and invited his widow, Rebecca, to attend. She told The Pulse, “Bernie and I were talking (at the dedication) and he was telling me he was the youth pastor at Salem and a deputy in Montgomery County. I’m like wow’ what a coincidence Then he said, And I live in the same rent house you and Joel did.’ I looked at him and told him, Don’t go AGFC. uit while you are ahead.’ Well he didn’t listen to me,” she joked. Soliz said part of his final assignment in the academy was to write a report on Joel Campora. Having met Rebecca, he reached out to her once more for information about Jo el that was different than the plethora of info available on the internet. B ernie said he was surprised and honored when he learned he had been selected to receive the award. Until now, the two have uncanny similarities. Unlike Campora, who resided in Scott County at the time of his death, Soliz now resides in De ueen. Officers must reside in the county in which they have been assigned. Rebecca commended Soliz for the leadership he has shown, “Bernie has the same work ethic and integrity of Joel. He is going to be a great officer. When I heard he had got the award it made me feel like Jo el was right there with him in academy encouraging him along the way. Maybe B ernie is going to continue the work for Joel.”
I, Sheriff Mike Godfrey, urge you to vote for
Scott Sawyer for Polk County Sheriff & Collector on March 1st.
When I was elected as Sheriff in 2011, Scott Sawyer was the clear choice to become my Chief Deputy, because of his experience, dedication, and leadership. Scott Sawyer has been serving the citizens of Polk County as a law enforcement officer for the last 22 years.
Please allow Scott Sawyer to serve you now as YOUR Sheriff and Collector. Political Ad Paid for by Mike Godfrey
T
he Color Run is back after being a big hit with participants last year, while raising money for the Mena Regional H ealth System’s Support Foundation. The Foundation Frenzy 5 K is a family-fun Color Run or Walk and will be held on Saturday, May th, 2016 in the heart of Mena at historic Ja nssen Park. Participants can register early for a fee of 26 or register the day of the race at 7 a.m. for a fee of 0. The K Run begins at 8 a.m. and the K Walk will begin at 8 1 a.m. All participants need to be present at the starting site by 0 a.m. Overall awards will be given to the top male and female finisher, as well as in each age division. The event will be chip timed and water and refreshments will be provided on site. Wearing white is encouraged, as participants will become a rainbow of colors from start to finish. To register now, visit. www.foundationfrenzy.eventbrite.com or contact Sonya Maye at 4 -24 -2 8.
Spring Conference “Trying to be a disciple of Jesus Christ is not the same thing as training to be His Disciples.” - Bruce Demarest
March 5, 2016 Grace Bible Church Mena, Arkansas
Making Disciples Jesus’ Way
Conference Distinctives
1. A Contextual Perspective A refreshing discovery of what of what we may have missed 2. Framework Focused Organizes knowledge and practice in a useful and memorable way 3. Personally Applicable Take ownership of your own spiritual growth Develop confidence in providing guidance to others
is presented by Doug Greenwold, the Senior Teaching Fellow for Preserving Bible Times (PBT). Doug helps us dig deeper into the pages of scripture by using the whole range of the cultural background of the Bible. CDs, DVDs and publications will be available at this seminar. PBT is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Biblical Truth. For more information about Grace Bible Church PBT, visit www.preservingbibletimes.org. For more information about this seminar or any other event, please call 479-394-4092.
1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena, AR 71953 www.gbcmena.org
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Local Teens Help Re-launch Chemo Care Packages M
BY MELANIE BUCK
news@mypulsenews.com
ena H igh School’s EAST Program launched EAST Cancer Awareness Week to bring awareness about a disease that affects almost every single person in one way or another. Along with encouraging students to dress in specific colors each day, they have created a package that everyone can help with. EAST has teamed up with Bearcats for a Cure and Clarice’s Room of Hope in creating Bearcat Chemo Care Packages. Clarice’s used to provide these care packages, but due to funding, has not been able too in some time. Coordinators said in Polk County alone, an average of three patients a week are diagnosed with cancer. “We thought that all students would like to be involved in creating the care packages and EAST Cancer Awareness Week is perfect timing,” said EAST facilitator Tyra Hobson. The items need for the care packages are Sacks, small hand sanitizer, small Kleene packages, Crossword Puzzles Suduko Word Search, chapstick, peppermints, and small lotions. All Chemo Care Packages will be given to Polk County patients. If you have any uestions, please contact Tyra Hobson at 4 - 4-1144 or email tyra.hobson menaschools.org.
Fires Continue in County
Burn Ban Remains in Effect
for Polk County Circuit Clerk Your Vote is Your Choice
BY MELANIE BUCK
news@mypulsenews.com
January 6, 2016
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irefighters uickly e tinguished a fire along a ditch line in Dallas alley on Saturday, February 1 . Members of the Dallas alley olunteer Fire Department responded to the call at the intersection of Polk Roads 44 and 2 just after 2 p.m. No cause of the fire has been determined but it could have been started with something as simple as throwing out a cigarette in these dangerous fire conditions. The Office of Polk County Emergency Management said conditions are still hazardous with low humidity, dead vegetation, and lack of sufficient rain. The burn ban that was issued by Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison on February 8, 2016 is still in effect until further notice.
8 years experience with Polk County Circuit Judge’s Office and Juvenile Probation Office; 14 years experience with Bob Keeter, Attorney at Law. I have the qualities to be your next Polk County Circuit Clerk. On March 1, 2016 vote experience and dedication. Your vote is appreciated! Po l i t i c a l Ad Pa i d f o r b y W a n d a S m i t h
at Mena
Assisted Living
Call us to set up a tour. • Meals and medication assistance • Weekly housekeeping • Transportation • Activity Programs
479-243-0033
1341 Mena Street, Mena www.theoaksatmena.com
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RMCC’s Shark Tank Winners
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he Rich Mountain Community College Department of Lifelong Learning recently hosted the NEX Tstep Entrepreneurship Program Shark Tank Competition. The competition included the event participants, judges’ panel, and moderator. The participants gave an overview of their business plans and had the opportunity to receive feedback from the judges. Of the eleven students enrolled, seven presented at the Shark Tank Competition. The award winners and their businesses were: $ 1,200 - Michelle Q uinn – Owner, 7 1 Towing, LLC; $ 1,000 - Tammy B usby – Owner, H appy H eart Catering and Cakes; $ 5 5 0 - Maryann K leinot – Owner, Eclaiz; $ 25 0 - Laura Wilson – Owner, Laura’s G ardens. The NEX Tstep Entrepreneurship Program is a comprehensive program designed to help small business owners launch, grow, and sustain their businesses. The program provides entrepreneurs with the tools necessary to ma imize revenue growth, profitability, job creation and innovation. The goal of the program and competition is to teach entrepreneurs how to be empowered by taking a great idea and turning it into a great career. RMCC partnered with H enderson State U niversity to design and facilitate the 36 hour course curriculum and delivery over a six week span. The NEX Tstep Entrepreneurship course was funded in part by the U .S. Department of Agriculture with support of the Arkansas Women’s B usiness Center, a project of Winrock International and the U .S. Small B usiness Administration. For more information contact Maureen K eese, Director of Lifelong Learning and Program Development at mkeese@ rmcc.edu or call 39 4-7 6 22 ext . 1311.
Ouachita Little Theatre Seeking Actors for OLIVER
BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com
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uditions for Ouachita Little Theatre’s next production will begin this week, says OLT President Rudi Timmerman. OLIVER is a musical that will be performed this spring with Timmerman as director. There are twenty adult roles to be cast; eight men and twelve women. There will also be a need for twenty or more young people to fill out the cast. Audition dates are February 17 , 18, 19 , and 20, at Rich Mountain Community College. Timmerman said, “ While some roles are listed for boys, at this age, we may substitute girls for some of these young boy roles.” A complete description of the songs and roles, as well as audition dates and times, can be found by visiting www. oltmena.com. For q uestions, contact Rudi Timmerman at RMCC by calling 47 9 -39 47 6 22.
HOLLY SPRINGS REAL ESTATE, LLC 479-394-4200 • Toll Free 1-888-394-4200 • 1114 A Hwy 71 South, Mena
www.HollySpringsRealEstate.com
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Ready to sell? Or, are you looking for that ‘just right’ property? We’ll be glad to help you!
Keith and Sharon Aleshire Broker/Owners
Keith’s cell - 479-243-5341 Sharon’s cell - 479-394-8514
Commercial Real Estate 3606 - Need an office close to courthouse? Check out this 117 6 sq ft professional building. Also part of the property is a vacant lot N orth of the office. $120,000
NEW CHALLENGER 500 SALE PRICE $8,499
NEW CHALLENGER 700 SALE PRICE $9,499
LOADED STANDARD EQUIPMENT PACKAGE STRENGTH TO RIDE HARDER, LONGER POLISHED ALLOY WHEELS AND HEAVY-DUTY BEARINGS
3602 - Over 6,000 sq. ft. of retail office and service shop space on H wy 7 1 South, plus lot 35 across the back street for extra storage space. Priced to sell. Call for your showing today. $99,000
3603 - This large lot comes with a 30 x 10 0 ft. warehouse with plenty of room to park eq uipment or use for storage area. L ot 36 can be sold with M L S # 16 0 0 239 5 . $82,500
EXCEPTIONAL FINANCING AVAILABLE AVAI L ABL E ON SE L E CT M ODE L S
394-4899
1167 HWY 71 SOUTH, MENA Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 8 am - 1 pm
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Shelter Insurance Scholarship Available PCEM Offers Weather T SUBMITTED Spotters Class P
olk County Emergency Management will host a National Weather Service Weather Spotters Class that is free and open to the public. Patrons of the class will learn the basics of how thunderstorms work and what to look for in a thunderstorm that is producing, or is about to produce, severe weather. Specific topics include spotting tornadoes, what defines a thunderstorm as severe, and how to report severe weather in real-time to the National Weather Service.The spotter training class is designed for people new to severe storm spotting, as well as those who need refresher training. The training includes all of the information that spotters need to be effective and stay safe. Although the class is most beneficial to those old enough to understand basic weather terminology, people ages 12 and older, or those able to stay focused on the presentation for two hours, will benefit the most. The class will be held February 25 th at 6 p.m. in the RMCC Lecture H all. Call the Polk County Emergency Management Office at 4 - 4-8141 for more information.
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his spring, the Shelter Insurance Foundation will award a $ 2000 scholarship to a graduate of Mena H igh School. Shelter Agent Telissa Montgomery sponsors and partially funds this scholarship. A committee of local high school officials and community leaders will select the local recipient. The committee will consider each applicant’s scholastic achievements, educational goals, citize nship, moral character and participation and leadership in school and community activities. The scholarship is given without regard to race, disability, religion, national origin or gender of applicants. The name of the recipient will be announced at the close of the school year. The student may apply the scholarship funds toward tuition, fees, or campus housing for any course of study beginning the fall after the recipient’s high school graduation and leading to an academic degree at any accredited college or university. The Foundation makes payment directly to the school the recipient selects. Applications and additional information about the Shelter Foundation Scholarship will be available in Ja nuary and should be completed and returned to the school official serving on the selection committee by March 1st. For more information, interested seniors should contact their high school counselor or principal or Shelter Insurance Agent Telissa Montgomery. The Shelter Insurance Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation for charitable and educational purposes. It is sponsored by the Shelter Insurance Companies – offering auto, home, life, farm and business insurance services to customers in 14 states via a network of local insurance agents and head uartered in Columbia, Missouri.
Accident Claims Life of Local Man A
BY MELANIE BUCK
news@mypulsenews.com
Mena man lost his life in a fatal car accident occurred on Highway 8 West on Friday, February 12, 2016 around 4 p.m. According to reports, Carl Dariel Baker, age , was traveling west on Highway 8 when his vehicle left the roadway and traveled down the ditch line striking a culvert, before coming to a stop on a nearby driveway. Baker was transported to Mena Regional Health System where he was later pronounced deceased at 10 1 p.m. Arkansas State Police Officer Bo Hayes worked the accident and listed conditions as clear and dry. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time.
January 6, 201
FOR SALE Retail and office building Frontage on corner of 71 south and Mena Street
Concrete block walls with brick over - 4 units
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
One corner unit facing 71 South and facing Mena Street 1404 sq.ft. - One restroom 2 entrances Large display windows on both street sides Two units - 354 sq. ft. each and own restrooms. One unit - 438 sq. ft. end unit with restroom. Beside Coast to Coast Total 2600 sq. ft. building with 2550 usable floor space
Call local owners
479-216-0111
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Sign-up now for 3rd Annual Mena High School Holds Local news@mypulsenews.com M.A.P.P. Pageant Ag Electricity Meet T F BY MELANIE BUCK
ifteen schools from the Southern District FFA Chapter of Arkansas recently competed in an Ag Electricity competition that was held in Mena for the first time and Mena’s 1st Team claimed victory as well as claiming individual success. The meet was held in the Ouachita Center on the campus of Rich Mountain Community College as a partnership between Mena FFA and Aleshire Electric. The overall winning team, Mena’s 1st Team, included ( see picture left to right) Nate Aleshire, Dylan Stanley, Clint B uck, who placed third as overall high individual, and David Odom, who placed first as overall high individual. “ Aleshire Electric has been very instrumental in conducting this contest,” said Mena FFA Advisor Mike Collins. G reg Aleshire and one his employees, B o Ja mes, have been helping train Mena’s FFA Ag Electricity teams for several seasons. Collins and co-advisor B rian Maye attribute part of the team’s success to Aleshire’s tireless teaching, taking his own time once a week to educate the teens in all things electric. In addition to a written test, the competition has four skill areas that each student must complete Live Wire, Tool Identification, Floor Plan, and Circuit Diagramming. “We are so thankful for G reg and B o and the rest of the Aleshire staff for helping us to coordinate and grade the contest and for what they do for our teams,” said Collins. “The whole purpose behind this program is to develop career skills. It’s much more than just a contest,” said Collins. H e added, “ They are picking up valuable skills to use in their lives whether they are at their own home or jobs.”
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he annual Melanoma Awareness and Prevention Program Pageant signup and competition dates have been announced by coordinator, Amber B rewer. The pageant will be held in the Performing Arts Center at Mena H igh School on Saturday, March 5 th. This is B rewer’s third year to present the pageant, which she began to bring awareness to a cancer that she battled herself at a very young age. “After having first hand e perience with Melanoma, I established the Melanoma Awareness and Prevention Program ( M.A.P.P.) to inform others about ways it could be prevented.” The pageant has age divisions that range from 0 – 23, and include a boys category for ages 0 – 5 and also a division for any age, whether married, divorced, or has children. Q ueens will be awarded a fully round crown, custom satin embroidered sash, and trophy. First and second alternates will receive a tiara and trophy. K ings will receive a satin round crown, embroidered satin sash, and trophy. First and second alternates in the boys division will receive a trophy and prize bag. All girls will receive a participant tiara and boys will receive a prize bag if they do not win or place. This year, B rewer is being joined by MH S B earcats for a Cure Relay Team to raise money for Polk County Relay for Life. The contest is beauty only and the entry fee is $ 35 . Contestants are encouraged to wear their Sunday best or pageant dress. Deadline to enter is February 27 , 2016 . Winners who are crowned q ueen will be invited to join B rewer for public appearances that promote M.A.P.P. and also parades. For q uestions, contact B rewer at 47 9 -243-5 083.
When Time Finally Runs Out Book by Peter Bellone
Available on GoodReads.com & Amazon.com Give the gift of knowledge, pick up a copy of my book, When Time Finally Runs Out. Time is short; short enough that you will be amazed to learn “when time finally runs out.”
www.PeterBellone.net
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City Council Approves Bids for Downtown Streetscape Project
BY MELANIE BUCK
news@mypulsenews.com
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new bed and breakfast was approved by the Mena City Council at their regular monthly meeting on February 9 , 2016 . The bed and breakfast approved is located on Reine Street and will add to a growing number of B &B ’s offered in Mena. Council members also approved a low bid of $ 5 11,337 from Township B uilders out of Little Rock for the completion of the Downtown Streetscape project. The project will see the completion of modern and decorative sidewalks on Mena Street from Maple to Sherwood. Some years ago, the project began to replace the sidewalks of Mena Street with decorative pavers as part of the Downtown Streetscape Project. H owever, as Mayor G eorge McK ee put it, “ we’ve had 3 one-hundred year oods and an ice storm” which have caused delays with completing the project, along with FEMA taking almost five years to release the funding. The final step before the work begins is waiting on approval from the state. Because the sidewalks line a state highway, the project has to be approved and overseen by the state. Mayor McK ee hopes to see the project begin by early spring. “We will be glad to get it all finished,” said McKee. In department head reports, Fire Chief J ohn Puckett said the Mena Fire Department worked 13 incidents in January, had seven stand-bys at the airport, one grass fire, one structure fire, and one gas leak. Mena Regional Health System CEO, Jay uebedeau , said the hospital admitted 1 6 patients, had 7 29 emergency department visits, delivered 30 babies, had 1,5 26 clinic visits, and performed 81 surgeries in J anuary. Mena Chief of Police B randon Martin reported his department as making 32 arrests in J anuary and working 18 accidents. Mena A P Commissioner Terri Neugent said a new policy has gone into effect to help with ta collections from lodging and food service establishments after having trouble collecting from several businesses. The council also approved the appointment of K athy Adams to the Mena Depot Commission and the re-appointment of Steve Rook to the Mena Water Commission. The ne t meeting of Mena City Council is set for 6 p.m. on March 8th, at Mena City Hall.
f or
citizen
V OTE
January 6, 2016
Po l k Co u n t y S h e r i f f a n d Co l l e c t o r
F AI R H ONES T I NTEGRI TY OPEN D OOR POL I CY
My w i f e a n d I r e s p e c t f u l l y a s k f o r y o u r v o te a n d s u p p o r t in th e S h e r iff ’s r a c e . I t w ill b e a n h o n o r to s e r v e a s y o u r S h e r iff.
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• 3 3 y e a r s la w e n fo r c e m e n e x p e r ie n c e • 2 9 ½ y e a r s Ar k a n s a s S t a • 1 7 ½ a s s u p e r v is o r w ith Ar k a n s a s S t a t e Po l i c e - o v Pi k e a n d Mo n t g o m e r y Co • Mi l i t a r y V e t e r a n • W o r k i n g w i t h AL L l a w e n fo r c e m e n t a g e n c ie s a n d c o m m u n ity a s a te a m e ffo m a k e o u r c o u n ty sa fe • 2 4 h o u r c o v e r a g e • W o r k in g o n d r u g is s u e s • Co n v i c t i o n s o n c r i m e s
t t e Po l i c e e r Po l k , u n ty
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Po l i t i c a l Ad Pa i d f o r b y Mi c k e y S i m m o n s
February 17, 2016
obituaries
news
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Weekly Publication
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The CALL of Polk County to Launch
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
involved families.” There is a place for everyone who wishes to be a part of the organiza tion. Personal testimonies from community members discuss the lack of resources available for those welcoming kids into their homes. The CALL is working to establish a “ CALL Mall” that can supply clothing and supplies. These supplies are available to foster children, regardless of their placement in CALL homes or established foster care homes. Donations will be accepted graciously to fund this effort. With the great amount of churches in this area, The CALL is hoping to form contact with individuals and organiza tions to collaborate and offer sustenance to the children of Arkansas’s future. One may q uestion if they are ready to adopt or foster, but one must realize that no child is ready to be an orphan; you are either called to bring a child into your home or you are responsible to support those who do. Please consider what role you can play in providing care for those in need. There will be a “ launch” held February 19 , 2016 at 6 pm, located at the National G uard Armory located on Morrow Street, adjacent to RMCC. All interested parties are welcome to come and enjoy the provided meal, hear Alicen B ennet, the state liaison from DCFS to The CALL organiza tion, share testimonies and the need for Arkansas’s children and families, and if led, participate in the love offering and begin their journey into answering their own “ call.” For more information contact Je nnifer by calling at 47 9 .216 .6 37 7 or by emailing her at thecallpolkcounty@ gmail.com. The CALL has a website available at thecallinarkansas.org for more information. The Mena Area Board of Realtors held their first general meeting of the year Tuesday, February th at Papa’s Me ican Restaurant. Guest spea er was Bob Dodson, director of “ earts omes.” Dodson spo e about the organization which is non profit and helps people with rent, house payment, and more due to a event that has caused them to need help. Area realtors are also involved in this pro ect locally. P OTO B DEBB E FROST
Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
•394-1938• Owner : Stacy & Julie Nash
CARL DARIEL BAKER
Carl Dariel Baker age 79 of Mena, died Thursday, February 11, 2016 at Mena Regional Hospital after sustaining injuries from a vehicle accident on Hwy 8 West. Dariel was born July 14, 1936 in Shawnee, OK to Claud and Daisy Baker. He was an only child. He graduated from Wichita Falls High School and attended Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX where he graduated with a BBA degree from the school of business. He then had a 25 year career in banking at First Wichita National where he was Vice President of the Trust Department. He was a member of the National Guard and served in the Army as a Lieutenant at Ft. Knox, KY, Ft. Sill, OK and Ft. Polk, LA. He married Norma Elaine Crain January 13, 1995 in Mena. They were married 21 years at the time of his death. In Mena Dariel was a realtor, an instructor at RMCC, and was involved with economic development for the city. He was the manag-
er of Mena Municipal Airport when he retired in 2007. He was a member of the Arkansas Airport Operators Association since 1990 and served as president from 2005-2007. He was a member of Lions Club and attended church at The Crossing. Dariel had many interests including bass fishing, bird hunting, and wood working. He was a skilled handyman and do-it-yourselfer. He had a love of automobiles and he loved and valued his acreage and took pride in keeping up his property. He was always a family man, and he enjoyed his friends. He was quite the conversationalist and humorist who never met a stranger. Dariel is survived by, wife, Norma Elaine Baker of Mena; son, Bryan Paul Baker of Atlanta; daughter, Jennifer Elaine McCarter of Knoxville; step-sons, Kristopher Byron Clark and Timothy William Clark of Mena; step-daughter, Brandy Clark Benner of Mena and 8 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by, granddaughter Jessica Elise McCarter in 1996. A funeral service was held at the Beasley Wood Chapel, officiated by Pastor Victor Rowell, on February 16, 2016 at 2 pm followed by a graveside service at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation will be Monday,
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
My name is Michelle Heath- Schnell and I am seek ing election to the of f ice of P olk Cou nty Circu it Clerk . I b eliev e my time spent in the cou rthou se f or the past 1 8 y ears w ork ing f or P olk Cou nty , 8 of w hich I hav e spent w ork ing in the Circu it Clerk ’ s of f ice mak es me a q u alif ied candidate f or this position. I tak e pride in my w ork and w ou ld continu e the same lev el of ef f iciency cu rrently in the of f ice. Since I hav e w ork ed f or P olk Cou nty f or the last 1 8 y ears, I hav e the k now ledg e of a v ast nu mb er of du ties inclu ding : pay roll, accou nts pay ab le, inv entory , all recorded docu ments, case manag ement, j u ry selection, land sales and end of the month reports. My cu rrent w ork ing relationship w ith other P olk Cou nty of f icials, attorney s, b ank s, realtors and title companies f u rther my ab ilities to do the b est possib le j ob f or P olk Cou nty . I w as b orn and raised in Dallas, TX and g radu ated R ed Oak Hig h School in 1 9 9 2 . I relocated to Mena w ith my parents, Sam and Kay e Heath, in 1 9 9 3 . I am the mother of tw o children, Molly ag e 1 3 and Andrew ag e 8 . I hav e tw o sisters w ho also liv e in Mena, J ennif er McCau ley and her hu sb and Drak e, and Kacey Schnell and her hu sb and Eric. I also hav e 5 nieces and nephew s. I am ex cited at the opportu nity to serv e the people of P olk Cou nty . I ask f or y ou r su pport to elect me as y ou r nex t
Circu it Clerk on March 1 , 2 0 1 6 .
Political Ad Paid for by Michelle Health Schnell
obituaries
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
11
................................................................................................................................ CONTINUED ON FROM PAGE 10
February 15, 2016 from 6-8 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home.
WALTER “WALT” JAMES GRAY Walter “Walt” James Gray, Sr., age 79, of Mena passed away on Saturday, February 13th, 2016 surrounded by his adoring family. He was married to Ruth Elaine Pierpont Gray, the love of his life, for 60 years. Walt was first and fore ost a fa ily an and was immensely proud of his six children, sixteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren and some special foster children whom he called his own. He was born in Danbury, Connecticut, on September 7, 1936, to Bell Dacota Gray and Marion Gray. He joined the U. S. Marine Corps at the age of 17, where he proudly served his country for 20 years during the Korean and Vietnam eras. After his retirement in 1973, he moved with his family to Mena and opened ray s ursery and andscaping which he operated for 17 years. Walt then began working for the City of Mena Parks Department as Parks Director. He later worked for Walmart in the Garden Center. He was elected to the Mena City Council where he served the community for 12 years. Walt was a pillar of wisdom and leadership in the community. He was an avid volunteer and served in numerous roles for organizations such as the Rotary Club, Optimist Club and arine Corps eague. He was especially passionate about working with young people, organi ing the city s een Council, eens in Motion and Kids Make a Difference, an after school program. He was parade organizer for the u and bner ays parade and the ena City Christmas parade for decades. He is survived by, wife, Ruth Elaine Pierpont Gray of Mena; sister, Florence Gray Berrien of Milford; daughters, Wendy Syfrett and husband i of Red ak and their children, isa, i , ra is and yle as well as two great grandchildren; C.J. Scarlet of Clayton and her sons, Sean and Steven as well as two great-grandchildren, Susan Conley of Carrollton and her children, Jonathan, Sarah, Caitlin and Grayson; sons, Walter Gray, Jr. and wife Carolyn of Mena and their children, Kori and Jamie, as well as si great grandchildren, or an ray and wife raci of ena and their children, rystin, ocelyn, Dacota and one great grandchild; grandson, arrell eonhart and wife atie of klahoma City and one great-grandchild. Walt was preceded in death by, his parents; brothers, Bob Gray and Roland Gray; a daughter, Janice Gray and a great-grandchild, Riley Gray Hudson. Funeral services will be Friday, February 19, 2016 at 10:30 am. at the First United Methodist
Church in ena, with Pastor nn erris officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. a ily and friend isitation will be hursday, February 18 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. n lieu of owers, please ake donations in Walt s na e to he Herbert ittleton ranch of the arine Corps eague oys for ots, P. . Box 1215, Mena, AR 71953. Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
BONNIE KATHERINE OSTHOFF
Bonnie Katherine Osthoff, age , of Hatfield, died hursday, ebruary , at her ho e. he was born on uesday, une , to oah arl and el ie tringer e ons in Pocahontas, rkansas. Bonnie loved life and enjoyed the outdoors; working in her ower beds and helping anyone in need. She loved her family and spending time with her grandchildren and her pets. Bonnie worked 18 years at Alfs and was very proud of her career there. Bonnie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. Bonnie is survived by, her husband of 62 years, Carl sthoff of Hatfield two sons and daughters in law, Roger and Sadie Osthoff of Pittsburg and Chris and Judy Osthoff of Hatfield two daughters and son in law, eborah urgala of Hatfield and Carla and lan Harston of il er one brother, ill e ons of Pocahontas; one sister, Donna Jo Washburn of Pocahontas; ten grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by, her parents. Funeral services were Saturday, February , at p. . at the Hatfield Church of Christ. Interment was Monday, February 15, at p. . at the e ons Ce etery near Birdle, Arkansas. Visitation was Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com
JERRY LYNN STANDRIDGE erry ynn tandridge, age 61, of Mena, died Saturday, February 13, 2016 at his home in Mena. He was born on Wednesday, March 24, 1954 to ohn ee and ula ae ewis tandridge in Mena, Arkansas. Jerry enjoyed life and lived every day the way he wanted to. He loved his family and spending time with them and his friends. He lived 60 years in California and just moved
back to Mena to spend time with his family. He enjoyed putting jigsaw puzzles together and playing games of chance. Jerry was a loving, brother, uncle and friend, and will be missed by all who knew him. Jerry is survived by, two brothers, Ronald Standridge and Robert Standridge both of Mena; two sisters, Sarah Weber and Brenda Wilson and husband Gene, all of Mena; nieces and nephews, isa, ristie, elissa, eilani, Jennifer, Desiree, John, Shannon, April, and J.C.; several great nieces and nephews, Sarah, a es, Carrie, i othy, ane, endyl, rion, Hannah, Kaden, Jeremiah, Kory, Kristopher, Dylan and Kamiyah; one great-great niece, Angelica; and a host of other relatives and friends. A graveside service was held Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at the Hillside Cemetery at Sulphur Springs, Arkansas under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com
JACK SHEMWELL Jack Shemwell age 73, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Wednesday, February 10, 2016 in Mena. Jack was born April 16, 1942 in Kansas City, Missouri to the late Ruff and Ruby Jo Shemwell. He was married to Dixie Briscoe Shemwell and worked for a Greyhound Bus Company as a bus driver. Jack was a member of the Christ Church in Cove. He was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him. Jack is survived by, wife, Dixie Shemwell of Hatfield daughters, y Walls and husband ndy of e as, aty unn and husband ike of e as son, a he well and wife ara of e as brother, i he well and wife Rose of klaho a sister, ianna Viegas of e as and numerous grandchildren and other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be announced later by the ubank uneral Ho e of Canton, e as. ocal arrange ents are under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
MOLLIE LOUISE SHOPTAW ollie ouise hoptaw, age 66, of Mena passed away Friday, February 12, 2016 in Mena. Mollie was born August 29, 1949 in Anadarko, klaho a to the late uther ill Haynes and the late Myrtle Grace Spruill Haynes. She was married to Bobby Shoptaw on May 1980 in Oklahoma. Mollie loved being outdoors, and en oyed fishing with fa ily and friends. pending time with grandchildren was her greatest joy. Mollie also loved interior decorating. She was a loving and kind wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to all who knew her. Mollie will be dearly missed
by all. Mollie is survived by, husband, Bobby Shoptaw of Mena; children, William Geoffery Frost of Chickasha, a ara akins of oard Ca p brothers, Bobby Haynes of Earlsboro; Freddy Haynes of Gracemont and James Haynes of Gracemont; sisters, ary nn Praesel of e as, Virginia a is of awton and Ruby ith of Rush Springs; grandchildren, Meagan Mizner and husband i , athanael akins, ere iah Eakins and Josiah Eakins; greatGrandchildren, Jared Mizner and Aleena Mizner She was preceded in death by, her parents, and her brothers, Buster Haynes, and Elmer Haynes. Graveside services were Monday, February , at p. . in iberty Ce etery in Board Camp, Arkansas with Brother Don Bozean officiating under the direction of the easley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Online obituary at http://www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com/
CLIFFORD ROYAL THARP
Clifford Royal harp, age , of unley, died Saturday, February 13, at his ho e in unley. He was born on Friday, April 20, 1934 to Willia Royal and Cora affin harp in tory, Oklahoma. Clifford was an honest man with integrity and could be counted on by everyone. He loved his family and was an avid OU fan. He was a ason for any years. He en oyed golfing and traveling. Clifford worked 40 years in the oil fields and was Vice President of Ha and Phillips for many years. Clifford was a loving, husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend, and will be missed by all who knew him. Clifford is sur i ed by, his wife, e ada harp of unley a daughter, i berly Woods of Cushing stepdaughter, isa Pe berton of Chapell Hill one brother, len Ray harp of or an two sisters, a ita urkland of aggett and a ine ann of oble fi e grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by, his parents; his wife, anice harp one daughter, elinda Rae harp and one sister, illie ue ole an. Visitation was uesday, ebruary , from 6-8 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. A second visitation will be Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at the B G oydston uneral Ho e in indsay, klaho a from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. with burial to follow in the reen Hill Ce etery in indsay, under the Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com
January 6, 2016
school
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February 17, 2016
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Acorn’s January Students of the Month
SUBMITTED BY ACORN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
A cor n El ementary St ude nts
A
corn Elementary School has announced their Ja nuary Students of the Month. Students were chosen having displayed exce llent citize nship, exc eptional academic effort/improvement and good attendance. Simple Simon’s Pizza , G oss Electronics, and Laark Enterprises provided lunch and games. Pictured are: 1st Row: Addisyn Ledbetter, K indergarten, daughter of Chris and K ylynn Ledbetter; B ailey H uff, K indergarten, granddaughter of Mary Dukeshire. 2nd Row: Ja kob H ostetler, K indergarten, son of Seth and Traci H ostetler; Owen Manley, 1st grade, son of Sawyer and H eather Manley; Lauren Cruz, 2nd grade, daughter of Santos Cruz; Irene G ilhousen, 2nd grade, daughter of Rodney and Diana McQ ueen. 3rd Row: Rebecca B loodworth, 3rd grade, daughter of Michael and B illie B loodworth; K ayleigh Noble, 3rd grade, granddaughter of Pat Meador; K ensey Rosson, 4th grade, daughter of Jo n and Sondra Rosson; Meghan Armijo, 4th grade, daughter of Frankie and Terri Armijo; Lori Richardson, 5 th grade, daughter of Willard and Sandra Richardson; Reed McG ee, PHOTO PROVIDED BY LINDA HEATH 5 th grade, son of Ja ime and Michelle McG ee.
MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/22 Pizza Bagel, fruit, juice, milk TU ESDAY 2/23 Breakfast chicken biscuit, fruit, juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/24 Sausage & biscuit, fruit, juice, milk TH U RSDAY 2/25 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk FRIDAY 2/26 Waffles, fruit, juice, milk
MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/22 Main: Hot ham & cheese sandwich, ranch wedges, lettuce & tomato, fruit, milk; ChoiCes: Chicken bacon ranch sandwich, ranch wedges, lettuce, tomato, fruit, milk; or Soup TU ESDAY 2/23 Main: Beef & cheese nachos, salad, celery & cucumbers w/ ranch, fruit, cookie, milk; ChoiCes: Hamburger, lettuce, tomato, pickles, celery & cucumbers w/ ranch, french fries, fruit, cookie, milk; or Chef Salad WEDNESDAY 2/24 Main: Chicken noodle soup w/ crackers, toasted cheese sandwich, Mango Splash Juice, carrots w/ ranch, fruit, milk; ChoiCes: Steak sandwich, lettuce, tomato, chips, Mango Splash Juice, fruit, milk; or Baked Potato TH U RSDAY 2/25 Main: Beef stroganoff, fried okra, corn on the cob, garlic bread, fruit, milk; ChoiCes: Pizza, lettuce, tomato, corn on the cob, fruit, milk; or Chef Salad FRIDAY 2/26 Main: Burritos, salad, beans, fruit, milk; ChoiCes: Taco salad, beans, fruit, milk; or Soup ACORN SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/22 Pancake on a stick, fruit, juice, milk; ChoiCe: Cereal TU ESDAY 2/23 Chocolate mini donuts, fruit, juice, milk; ChoiCe: Cereal WEDNESDAY 2/24 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk TH U RSDAY 2/25 Biscuit, sausage, fruit, juice, milk; ChoiCe: Cereal FRIDAY 2/26 Sausage roll, fruit, juice, milk; ChoiCe: Cereal
ACORN SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/22 Burrito w/ cheese, lettuce/tomato, corn, fruit, milk TU ESDAY 2/23 Chicken fajita salad, Spanish rice, pinto beans, fruit, milk WEDNESDAY 2/24 Chicken nuggets, mac & Cheese, broccoli, corn, fruit, milk TH U RSDAY 2/25 Taco soup, whole grain crackers, tossed salad, fruit, milk FRIDAY 2/26 Hamburgers, french fries, lettuce/tomato, fruit, milk
A cor n M iddl
T
e and H
igh Sc
hol
St ude nts
he Acorn Middle School and H igh School Faculties have chosen the following students for the Ja nuary Students of the Month based on performing at ability level, participating in the classroom, respectful to faculty and peers, demonstrating a good work ethic and demonstrating all around good citize nship. Students receive an academic plaq ue as well as have their lunch furnished by Nidec at a local restaurant. Pictured are: B ack row ( left to right) : Leo Ja cinto, 9 th grade; Ja cob Moore, 8th grade; Catelyn Reynolds, 12th grade; Dalton Lane, 11th grade; Faith H ill, 10th grade; K yla K imp, 6 th grade. Front: K eelan B rown, 7 th grade.
COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/22 Mini donuts, applesauce, orange juice, milk TU ESDAY 2/23 Biscuit w/ gravy, banana, apple juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/24 Poptart, orange wedges, cherry juice, milk TH U RSDAY 2/25 Pancake on a stick, apple wedges, orange juice, milk FRIDAY 2/26 Super donut, raisels apple juice, milk
COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/22 Pizza, tossed salad w/ dressing, pineapple marshmallow treat, milk TU ESDAY 2/23 Chicken strips, quick baked potato, green beans, mandarin oranges, roll, milk WEDNESDAY 2/24 Beef taco, lettuce, tomato, cheese salsa, pinto beans, pears, sherbet, milk TH U RSDAY 2/25 Chicken spaghetti, tossed salad w/ dressing, corn, fruit cocktail, roll, milk FRIDAY 2/26 Hot dog, potato wedges, ranch wedges, peaches, milk
This weekly info proudly sponsored by:
GEORGE S. DAVIS STATE FARM AGENT SINCE 1964
Insurance with a name you know STATE FARM INSURANCE 624 Sherwood Avenue, Mena, AR
479.394.4521 Res. 479.394.1895
Weekly Publication
Posey Earns All-State Choir Chair and Vocal Scholarship K
SUBMITTED
ameron Posey, a Mena H igh School senior, has earned a position in the Arkansas All-State Choir for the second consecutive year. Auditions for the prestigious honors choir were held at H enderson State U niversity on Friday, February 5 . Over seven hundred students from across the state vied for positions in their respective voice parts. Posey was one of 118 young women who auditioned for an Alto I chair in the choir. Posey has been in choir since second grade and has been a member of the Spotlight Singers for four years. She has earned a position in the Southwest Region All-Region Honors Choir each year for a total of si years, has served in various choir officer positions and has also been elected as choir student of the month. She is an honors student, is active in U pward B ound, serves as her church newsletter editor and is a freq uent church soloist. She is the daughter of Andy and Shannon Posey. Posey has also been awardMena H igh ed an $ 8,000 vocal scholarship School Drama at H enderson State U niversity. Team went to According to Dr. Andrew K reckLouise Durham mann, Director of Choral ActiviElementary to help ties at the university, the scholthem learn about arship is H enderson’s highest being on task. non-major vocal award. Posey They added to their plans to pursue a pre-med major H eroes Code using with a minor in music. the acronyms. The Arkansas All State Choir H - helpful will perform in concert at noon on E- encouraging Saturday, February 20, at the H ot R- respectful Springs Convention Center. The O- on task. concert is free and open to the public.
school
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Mena High Visits Louise Durham
January 6, 201
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MEDLIN INSURANCE AGENCY LICENSED IN OKLAHOMA & ARKANSAS 900 Hwy. 71 N. Mena, AR 71953 cmedlin@farmersagent.com 479-394-5555
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National Family Caregiver Support Program
Caregiver Support Meeting • February 22, 2016 at 11:15 am
If you are a caregiver of an adult 60 years and older please come join us. This information could be extremely helpful to you. The topic will be “6 Signs of Caregiver Burnout” presented by Kim Hughes, Polk County Extension Office. For information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373. Hope to see you there. Refreshments will be served.
The Cossatot Senior Center
7366 Hwy 71 S • Wickes, AR 71973 • Office: 870-385-2373
Refund Anticipation Check Prepaid Visa Card Direct Deposit
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Pay your tax preparation fees out of your refund.
HEROD & HEROD CPAs (formerly Allen Herod, CPA, PA)
Northside Shopping Center 479-394-7830
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citizen
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February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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Hollie Montgomery - A Faith-Filled Educator E
BY RENEE HENDRIX
reneehendrix38@yahoo.com
ven from an early age, H ollie Montgomery saw the importance of education and the impact it makes in lives of children. G rowing up in a household with two educators, it is completely understandable that she would have a deep appreciation for teaching. Montgomery saw, first hand, the impact that both her father, James Lockhart, and her mother, Diane Lockhart, made on their students. She witnessed how her parents’ love of the children impacted them even more than their teaching. Montgomery stated that is what she strives to do, “Love first, teach second. If a child feels loved, then they can learn.” She credits several teachers for, not only their love of teaching and for students, but for their faith in G od that proved to be very instrumental in Montgomery’s style of education. “ G od has called me to teach .and this is my mission field.” Montgomery was born in Mena to Diane Lockhart and the late James Lockhart. Some of her earliest memories were helping her mother prepare for her 1st grade class. She stated she loved playing school with her dolls and the neighborhood children and joked, “ I was always the teacher… I could be q uite the bossy one.” She went on to be a 19 9 5 graduate of Mena H igh School and continued on to Rich Mountain Community College for two years before transferring to Arkansas Tech where she earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Education degree. She started her first teaching position with the Waldron School District as a 1st grade teacher. In 2001, she moved to Louise Durham and has stayed with the Mena School District ever since. “ I’ve been a teacher for 17 years! ” Montgomery stated with disbelief. At the age of 27 , Montgomery says she married the man that she had prayed for her entire life, citing that Michael was an amazi ng blessing to her. She stated he has been her rock through devastating loss, the spiritual leader to her family and her best friend. The couple share two sons Keala (from Michael’s first marriage) and Brady. The couple has endured their share of losses, including three miscarriages, two at 20 weeks. The second was a little girl, named Baily Michelle and the third, Brooks James. Montgomery feels her faith in God has seen her through the times of loss and heartbreak and finds peace in the scripture Psalm 26 “My Flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Montgomery was raised in church and grew up with strong Christian values. She shared that, “Jesus Christ is my everything.” And, she credits her growth in her faith and prayer life to a “ wonderful group of ladies at Dallas Avenue B aptist Church. They took her in and loved her unconditionally and advised her through some very hard times in her life. A wonderful friend of the family wrote a tribute to Montgomery’s father. “ Oh, that we will be able to still touch our students’ and friends’ hearts like your dad has impressed the lives of others… every day I do a golden deed, by helping those who are in need.” She added, “ My life on earth is but a span… and so I’ll do the best I can.” Montgomery went on to say, “What an amazing thought, to leave an impression on a life and know that through our Lord and Savior, Jesus, we can leave a legacy and touch a life If I’ve pointed others to God then I’ve shown them love. Matthew 16 let your light shine before others.”
FREE DENTAL CARE F RI D A YS
Ne w p at i e n t e v a l u a t i o n s f o r p a t i e n t s w i t h NO D ENTAL I NS U RANCE Th i s w i l l b e f o r 1 F r i d a y a m o n t h f o r f i v e m o n t h s a t s e le c te d lo c a tio n s lis te d b e lo w :
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F e b r u a r y 2 6 , 2 0 1 6 • 8 :0 0 a m
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Firs t Come Firs t Serve w ith c ompleted d ental f orms F o r m s a r e a v a ila b le a t H e a l t h y Co n n e c t i o n s 1 3 6 H e a l t h Pa r k D r i v e , Me n a , AR a n d i n Mt I d a 5 3 4 L u z e r n e S t r e e t , Mt . I d a , AR Mo n - Th u r s 8 a m - 5 :3 0 p m Pi c k u p a n d r e t u r n r e g i s t r a t i o n f o r m s in a d v a n c e b e fo r e e x a m . F REE f o l l o w u p v o u c h e r s w i l l b e p r o v id e d a fte r in itia l e x a m .
HealthCare.gov
business
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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Polk County Farm Bureau - Protecting Your Losses F
BY RENEE HENDRIX
reneehendrix38@yahoo.com
arm Bureau is a non-profit nationwide business that started right here in the State of Arkansas. In 1 , the Polk County Farm Bureau was formed. The non-profit organization started because there was a lack of opportunities for rural people to get insurance. The Farm Bureau is a member driven organization with several facets. One of the facets is what Polk County Farm Bureau Agency Manager Floyd Clark referred to as the “legislative voice” that the people have at the State Capitol, to voice their ideas and opinions of what is going on out in the counties of Arkansas through a designated liason. Floyd Clark stated that “It Farm Bureau is a member driven, a grass roots organization. It is where ideas, resolutions, problems come from the ground to the top.” Polk County Farm Bureau is owned by its membership in Polk County. Membership as of today is appro imately ,200 members and when you add in the families of these members, it rounds out to about 11, 000 people just in Polk County. Farm Bureau is governed by a Bruce Erickson, Owner board of directors. Clark oversees three M.S.R.s (Members Service Representatives) and five agents and two in-house adjusters. Together these professionals bring over 1 0 combined years of insurance knowledge to their members. Floyd stated, “People are looking for customer service knowledgeable people that know the lifestyle of Polk County that can relate and serve. We are here to serve our community.” Farm Bureau is a huge supporter of FFA (Future Farmers of America) and the local 4-H groups. They ensure these kids are taken care of through their yearly contributions. In fact, Polk County Farm Bureau grants si annual scholarships that are funded from their membership funds. These are available to all Polk County youth, including the private school sector as well. The America Farm Bureau Association is made up of all 0 states and Puerto Rico. The Polk County Chapter is a part of that larger program. The big voice of Farm Bureau is a voice that is respected among state governments as well as national government. CALL 479-243-9600 Farm Bureau has been at their current office on South Morrow since 2011, having out grown their previous facility on Janssen Avenue. Floyd e pressed his pride for their more spacious office building, boasting a community conference room and kitchen as well as bigger parking lot that allows them to better accommodate their growing membership. Floyd said his agents and his agency never shined brighter than during one of the county’s darkest moments because of the commitment of their agents to serve its members. Agents found themselves, like many “Serving your families with did following the devastating April , 200 EF tornado, working under incredible stress and pressure from Dignity & Care for over 80 years” their own losses or that of their families and friends. Floyd said that one of their agent’s houses took a direct Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent hit and yet, the agent was still at the office the following morning to serve his customers. Just a year earlier, Member of the National Funeral Directors Assoc. on the same date, the county was hard hit with a hail storm. Floyd said between that storm and the tornado, 611 Janssen, Mena, AR the agency paid out a total of 0 million for these disasters. “It devastated our community,” Floyd (479) 394-1310 said, but with local offices and agents, they were able to be immediately available and go to work assisting their members. Floyd stated the agency’s commitment to help members maintain their standard of living. “Whether that tornado destroyed their house, the hail storm ripped off their roof, or when that car is totaled in a wreck It is our job to help them maintain that standard of living so they can keep on going. If there is anyone looking for a service oriented business, one that believes in its customers and wants to 23 L ik e u s on Fac e b ook ! better their lifestyles, Farm Bureau would be a good January 6, 2016 ............................................................................ place for you to do business with.”
Bruce’s
Appliance Service Repairs done in your home.
479-234-3570
ADVERTISE HERE
Commercial and Residential
Termites • Household Pests Bed Bugs • Fire Ants Polk County 479-234-2038 Scott County 479-637-6064
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Manufacturer of Quality CNC Parts
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FULL ATV SERVICE & REPAIR
Hwy 71N/Hwy 88E Junction (Behind Terminix) 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY
Full Line Drugstore Large Selection of Gifts
Beasley-Wood Geyer-Quillin Funeral Home
“ W
citizen
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FOR ONLY $25 AJanuary WEEK 6, 2016
eh the r that tor nado de stroy ed the ir hous e, the hai l stor m rippe d of f the ir roof , or w he n that car is tot al ed in a w reck . I t is our j ob to he l p the m maintain that standar d of l iv ing so the y can k eep on goi ng.”
479-394-45 35 O p e n 7 D ay s aW e e k
710 4th Street Mena, AR
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. • 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Sun. • Closed
16
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
February 17, 2016
February 17, 2016
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
17
Paul Harvey, 1978 nd on the 8th day God looked down on his planned paradise and said, “I need a caretaker!”. So, God made a farmer! God said I need somebody to get up before dawn and milk cows and work all day in the fields, milk cows again, eat supper and then go to town and stay past midnight at a meeting of the school board. So, God made a farmer! I need somebody with strong arms. Strong enough to rustle a calf, yet gentle enough to deliver his own grandchild. Somebody to call hogs, tame cantankerous machinery, come home hungry and have to wait for lunch until his wife is done feeding and visiting with the ladies and telling them to be sure to come back real soon - and mean it. So, God made a farmer! God said “I need somebody that can shape an ax handle, shoe a horse with a hunk of car tire make a harness out of hay wire, feed sacks and shoe scraps. And who, at planting time and harvest season, will finish his forty hour week by Tuesday noon. Then, pain’n from “tractor back”, put in another seventy two hours. So, God made a farmer! God had to have somebody willing to ride the ruts at double speed to get the hay in ahead of the rain clouds and yet stop on mid-field and race to help when he sees the first smoke from a neighbor’s place. So, God made a farmer! God said, “I need somebody strong enough to clear trees, heave bails and yet gentle enough to tame lambs and wean pigs and tend the pink combed pullets, and who will stop his mower for an hour to mend the broken leg of a meadow lark. So, God made a farmer! It had to be somebody who’d plow deep and straight and not cut corners. Somebody to seed and weed, feed and breed and rake and disc and plow and plant and tie the fleece and strain the milk. Somebody to replenish the self feeder and then finish a hard days work with a five mile drive to church. Somebody who’d bale a family together with the soft strong bonds of sharing, who’d laugh and then sigh, and then respond with smiling eyes, when his son says he wants to spend his life “doing what dad does”. So, God made a farmer!
National FFAWeek February 20-27, 2016
W e p roudly sup p ort F F A ! Mena Steel Buildings, Inc. Commercial & Industrial Since 1973
479-394-2162 • 2500 Bethesda Rd.
Diesel REPAIR 1408 Hwy. 71 N • Mena, AR 71953
479-394-5700
TIRES Diesel Repair on Semi Tractor Trailers & All Diesel Engines
HERITAGE MONUMENT
www.cotnermonument.com
Sandra Thomas www.todayscoop.com 318 Hwy 71 S
479-394-3353
3 0 9 S . Mo r r o w , Me n a
4 7 9 -3 9 4 -3 6 5 0
Proud s upporters of our FFA Ch apters in Polk County!
2601 Highway 71 South Mena, Arkansas 71953
479-394-7092
MENA REAL ESTATE
Team Smallwood Kevin & Rebecca Smallwood 816 S. Mena St. • Mena, AR 71953 Office: (479) 394-5000 Cell: (479) 243-3407(K) • (479) 243-3226(R)
ksmallwood@remax.net or rsmallwood@remax.net
sthomas@cotnermonument.com
www.ksmallwood.com
Ouachita Equine Clinic Serving all your small & large animal needs.
Proudly Supporting Local FFA Chapters! Hours: Mon. Tues. Wed., and Fri. 8am-5pm Closed on Thurs.
479-394-7185
Randy J. Burgess D.V.M. 2920 Hwy. 71 N, Mena, AR 71953
MENA HATFIELD - WICKES 1020 Mena St. • Mena, AR 71953 479.394.4332 or TOLL FREE 1.888.394.4332 HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat. 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
www.washburns.com
479-394-2211
www.unionbankofmena.com
Pr o u d su p p o r te r o f F F A! Re x D o l l a r
1 6 0 7 H w y 7 1 N. • 3 9 4 - 1 0 2 7
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February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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Thursday, 2/18 • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. – The Board Camp Baptist Church at 107 Country Road 63 will distribute food. • 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/Polk County meets at Papa s e ican Caf . Contact isa Martin at 216-3383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more information. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County ibrary is open. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00p.m. - The Sonlighters n ction Card hop will be open at Highway West, one ile fro ouise Durham. • 5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th treet inistries building. • 5:30 p.m. – Polk County Cancer Support Group eeting at the Polk County ibrary, th t. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at allas enue aptist Church a ily ife Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. • 5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – wo en s eeting C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy, , ., ena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel usic in the aisy Roo at anssen e lorist.
• 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at erican egion uilding, Hwy ., corn. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous eeting, Hwy ., ena. 6: p.m. Clarice’s Room of ope group gathering will be held at 403 North orrow t., uite C. 6:3 p.m. Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 eets at irst nited ethodist Church. eryone is welco e. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – AWANA Clubs eet at race ible Church, Highway North. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy , ., ena. or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Mena Elks Lodge meeting. ll lks are in ited to attend. • 7:00 p.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 onthly eeting at i etree Restaurant. Tuesday, 2/23 • 8:00 a.m. –The Reynolds Gardener Community Men’s Brea fast at the irst nited ethodist Church in ena. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the th treet Ministries Building. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at the ena rt allery, ena treet. ring your current pro ect. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Free lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen at ena e enth ay d entist Church, Polk airground Road , ena. . ake ut a ailable. ll are welco e. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters n ction Card hop will be open at Highway West, one ile fro ouise Durham. 1 : p.m. : p.m. The atfield Branch library will be open. • 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – T.O.P.S. will meet in the nion ank Co unity Roo for weigh ins, followed by a eeting fro p. . p. . Visitors are welco e. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous, 812 Hwy ., ena. • 7:00 p.m. – The Marine Corps League Detachment will eet at ighthouse itness. • 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Bluegrass music at orrow treet Housing uthority Community Room. • 7:30 p.m. – Mountain Meadow Masonic Lodge #218 eets at the Hatfield odge. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – eeting at irst nited ethodist Church, th Port rthur. or 234-3043.
Wednesday, 2/24 • The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Hatfield, Wickes, rannis, Vandervoort, Cove, and Mena at noon. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open. • 5:45 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – The Mena First United Methodist Church id will eet. • 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous eeting, Hwy ., ena. • 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – The Southside Church of God Warriors for Christ will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Regeneration Youth Ministries “Regenerating this Generation at ena Church of od Hwy ast. • 6:15 p.m. – Discovery Kids indergarten hru th rade Collide outh inistry th hru th rades and dult ible tudy at allas enue aptist Church. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for iddle and High chool students at race ible Church, Hwy . ena. ll rea iddle and High chool students are welco e. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy , ., ena. or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Inquiry classes into the Catholic aith begins in the Parish Hall of t. gnes Catholic Church at th t. here is no cost or obligation and anyone interested is invited to attend. Call or for ore infor ation.
• MENA HEAD START is taking applications for enroll ent for preschool children and arly Head tart Children, birth . he program is free to those who qualify. or an application co e by ena Head tart at Pine e., onday thru riday. or ore infor ation, call . • PCDC RECYCLES #1 AND #2 PLASTICS. hese ite s are ccepted ll li uid dishwashing, sha poo, plastic soda, laundry detergent, ita in and water bottles, ilk ugs. te s ot ccepted include PVC plastic and cla shell food containers. rop off at . orrow t. in Mena, AR. * KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS will hold an all you can eat ish ry on riday, ebruary , fro p. . at aint gnes Parish Hall. he enu includes fried fish, fries, coleslaw, hushpuppies, beans, dessert, and drink. dults are , children, , and fa ilies are .
BEATS
• 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous eeting at aint gnes Church Parish Hall. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy , ., ena. or 479-243-0297. • 7:30 p.m. – Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 eets at the ena odge located in the ld Post ffice by anssen Park. Friday, 2/19 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Road tests are gi en at the orrow treet Housing uthority Community Room unless the roads are wet. Written tests are given at 1:00 p.m. • 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the ions Club House on Highway outh. • 6:30 p.m. – NA Meeting held at Wickes st aptist Church. • 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Dance to Don Thompson & Talimena Drive Band, American egion, corn, . ad ission. • 7:00 p.m. – NA Meeting at 812 Highway outh, ena. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy , ., ena. or 479-243-0297. Saturday, 2/20 • 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Watercolor Painting in the Young Artist Class at the ena rt allery, ena treet, for children from 13-17 years old and adults. There is a fee per person to help co er the cost of supplies. Call 479-394-3880 to sign up. • 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – Remembering Hearts Forever a ilies who ha e had a child, grandchild, or sibling pass away, any cause and age. We will eet at nion ank in the Community Room, rear of building to discuss our agenda. iane, . • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at erican egion uilding, Hwy ., corn. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy ., ena. or 479-216-4606. Sunday, 2/21 • 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – C Club across fro Chopping lock, Hwy , ., ena. or 479-243-0297. • 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the irst nited ethodist Church in Mena. • 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous eeting at aint gnes Church Parish Hall. Monday, 2/22 : a.m. 1 : p.m. God’s Feeding Hands Mission Center will serve free Groceries free oiletry to the needy at Reeves Ave, Mena. • 11:15 a.m. – Caregiver Meeting at the Cossatot enior Center.
family
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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POLK COUNTY BIRTHS
AT MENA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM J a nelle S tr ong a nd Mi cha el Moor e, of Mena , a r e the p r oud p a r ents of a b a b y g i r l, b or n on F eb r ua r y 9 th. Pa ola a nd W a lter Mor a les, of D eQ ueen, a r e the p r oud p a r ents of a b a b y g i r l, b or n on F eb r ua r y 9 th. Mea g a n Powell a nd J ohn B r echei sen, of L ockesb ur g , a r e the p r oud p a r ents of a b a b y b oy, b or n on F eb r ua r y 9 th. L ea S tub b s a nd D usti n A lex a nd er , of L ockesb ur g , a r e the p r oud p a r ents of a b a b y b oy, b or n on F eb r ua r y 1 2 th. L ea h a nd Peter J ohnson, of Mena , a r e the p r oud p a r ents of a b a b y b oy, b or n on F eb r ua r y 1 3 th.
Making Pastries and Doughs
( StatePoint) Even for talented cooks, dessert can be a different story, especially when you go beyond baking mixe s to make pastries from scratch. “ Pastries, and the doughs that give them life, have daunting reputations, but they’re not as complicated as they sound,” says Russel Van K raayenburg, food blogger and author of the new recipes and ratios book, “ Making Dough.” “ Dough is often nothing more than butter, our and water -- a simple base for a never-ending variety of pastries.” To demystify the art and science of baking from scratch, Van K raayenburg’s book offers instructions for creating a doze n crucial dough types and recipes for how to use them. H ere are some of his tips for improving your baking game, along with a recipe for pie dough. • Measuring: Since different ingredients have different densities, weighing them is the best way to produce precise results. ( H owever, it is handy to memorize what 1 teaspoon of salt looks like in your hand. The same goes for baking soda, powder, sugar and any ingredient used regularly in small amounts.) • Storage: Flour contains a small amount of water. Over time, it can either dry out or absorb moisture from the air. When you open a paper sack of our, transfer it to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry, dark place, such as a pantry or cabinet far from your oven. Keep both bread and cake ours on hand. • Sugar substitutions: Substitutions that can work in cooking won’t necessarily work in the laboratory of baking. Certain sweeteners caramelize when heated; others leaven and aerate mixt ures. Always use the sweetener the recipe calls for and never replace a sugar with a chemical sugar substitute. • Trial by hand: While a food processor or stand mixe r could ease the dough-making process, try each recipe by hand at least once. G etting a feel for the dough, literally, will help you understand its characteristics. To make Pie Dough, Van K raayenburg offers this by-hand techniq ue.
January 6, 2016
CUTEST PET PIC
M iss M aggi
#LOL
e
Miss Maggie is a rottweiler and lab mix enjoying a day in the house. Proud owners are Kelsey and Lloyd Kendrick of Cove. Please share your favorite photo of your pet. You may drop it off or mail it to: The Polk County Pulse | 1168 Hwy 71 S. Mena, AR 71953 or email: e.rowell@mypulsenews.com
This week’s Cutest Pet Pic made possible by your friends at:
Riddles Riddle: I travel all over the world, but always stay in my corner. What am I?
ANSWER: A STAMP
Riddle: With pointed fangs I sit and wait; with piercing force I crunch out fate; grabbing victims, proclaiming might; physically joining with a single bite. What am I? A STAPLER Riddle: Why is the letter A the most like a ower
A: BECAUSE THE “B” IS AFTER IT.
Riddle: I am the beginning of the end, and the end of time and space. I am essential to creation, and I surround every place. Who am I?
THE LETTER “E”
Riddle: What word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?
SHORT
Ingredients: 6 ounces bread our 2 ounces cake our • 1 teaspoon salt • 7 ounces unsalted butter, cold • 1/4 cup water Directions: Mi ours and salt in a large bowl. Chop butter into 1/2 inch chunks and add to mi ture. Pinch butter into our, breaking it into large pea-size d pieces. Work q uickly to keep butter from melting Pour water into our mi ture. Mi dough with your hands or about 10 to 15 turns of a wooden spoon, until it just starts to come together. The dough will be tough and should remain in a few large chunks. Place dough on a lightly oured surface and push chunks together. K nead 4 to 5 times, just until it holds together. Flatten into a disk about 1 inch think. Wrap tightly in parchment and let rest in fridge for at least one hour. More dough secrets and tips can be found at russellvankraayenburg.com. When it comes to pastries, don’t be afraid to try your hand at doing-it-yourself from scratch.
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February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
Political Ad Paid for by Debbie Scott
Mena 3rd Grade
Acorn Schools hosted the Acorn PeeWee Classic Saturday, February 7. Participating in the tournament were Mena, Oden, Kirby, Acorn and Mount Ida. The Acorn 6th Grade Lady Tigers and the 4th Grade Lady Tigers, coached by Chris Tedder claimed 1st place in each of their divisions. The Mena 3rd Grade Ladycats won 1st for their division.
Acorn 4th Grade
Winners of Acorn’s PeeWee Classic Acorn 6th Grade
sports
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Weekly Publication
Spurgin Officially Signs with Crowder College
BY MELANIE BUCK
news@mypulsenews.com
Bearcats & Ladycats End Season at 7-AAAA District Tourney
PHOTOS BY F SAMANTHA MAECHLER
Mena Ladycat Kenzi Spurgin has officially signed on with Crowder College in Neosho, Missouri to play college softball, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Kenzie is the daughter of Kevin and Chamarie Spurgin and has been playing ball for the majority of her life. In her years of highschool ball, the Ladycat Softball Team has been named 4A Conference Champs and District Champs in 201 , 2014, and 201 West Region Champions in 2014 and 201 and State Champions in 201 , and still has her senior season to go. Her personal softball accomplishments include All District 201 Jr. Classic Tournament Team 201 and Arkansas Democrat All-Preps 201 . Kenzi has also been involved in a traveling softball team, Mena Heat, who has had much success through the years as well. In Ladycat olleyball action, Kenzi was named 1st Team All-Conference in 201 and 2014 and All State 201 . As part of the team, the Kenzie and the Ladycats also earned 4A Conference Champs in 201 , 2014, and 201 State Champions in 2014 and State Runners-Up in 201 . Kenzi is e cited to start college and plans to work hard under the direction of Coach Sisemore and Coach Sam on the softball field. She plans to major in occupational therapy.
sports
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citizen
January 6, 2016
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The Mena Bearcats faced the Bau ite Miners during the first round of AAAA District Tournament play held at Ashdown Monday night. The Miners beat out the Bearcats 6 . The Ladycats also ended their season on Monday night when they faced the Ar adelphia Lady Badgers who defeated the Ladycats 3 3 .
OUACHITA TAX NORMA (PEARCE) LOTT, E A
Reasonable Fees
Hwy 270 at Acorn Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.-Noon Appointments any time
479-394-8016
MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE OWNER - JASON MILES
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news
22
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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Morgan’s Project to Clear Flood Debris STORY AND PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY MICHAEL CATE
inter Storm G oliath dumped up to a foot of rain locally in the last week of December 2015 . As the waters gathered, an angry Ouachita River inundated farmland, uprooted trees and washed away half ton hay bales. Since then, communities along the Ouachita River have been rebuilding fences, roads and bridges. For the past several weeks, volunteers have also began recovering debris from along the river. Miles of river bank are decorated trash. Most obvious, are innumerable shreds of white plastic hay wrap. Morgan Puckett, a seventh grader at Mena Middle School first heard about the river situation from her family who has lived along the Ouachita for generations. “At first, I didn’t believe it could be so bad,” she said. When she saw the ext ent of the disaster, she was shocked. “ There is trash all over the place from tiny pieces to pieces as long as cars,” Morgan e plained. “I asked dad, What are they going to do about this ” H er father, Edd Puckett, replied with an uneasy answer of reassurance that “ they” would take care of it. Morgan’s sense of preservation has been sharpened not only by what she learns in school but from her family. For the past several years, she has routinely helped pick up the trash along county road 401. There is both determination and frustration in her voice as she describes the litter tossed thoughtlessly by the road. “It’s always (the same brand of bottle) so I know it’s people who just don’t care about anybody but themselves,” she laments. Meanwhile, Morgan’s comments about the river situation weighed on Edd’s mind as he had no clue who “ they” might be unless his family helped provide leadership. Edd and Morgan visited several river crossings only to discover more debris dotted the riverbanks as far as the eye could see. They realize d it was a project that was going to req uire more than just a few people. “I told dad we just have to do something. The river situation isn’t because somebody didn’t care. This is a disaster like a tornado exce pt it was caused by a ood.” Morgan e plained. She emphatically noted the difference between careless litter and a disaster caused by nature. Motivated by his daughter’s plea, Edd approached a group of friends who love to hunt and fish. Momentum began to build toward a river clean up campaign. The topic gained the curiosity of local pilot Nathan Cline who ew Edd over the river to survey and photograph the litter field. They estimated the litter e tends more than 10 miles and will req uire doze ns of volunteers. That’s when Project Morgan was envisioned. Their goal is to clean up as much of the ood debris as possible before it scatters further downstream. Some ooded hay rolls remain intact but their plastic wrap needs to be removed before it scatters to neighboring counties. The primary area of concern stretches approxi mately 10 miles from above McG uire Landing past Cherry H ill. On March 12th, willing citizens are being asked to bring their at bottom boats or canoes to a central staging area that is now being arranged. Volunteers will be provided with plastic bags and assigned a short section of the river to clean. Maps will be available with circled assignment areas, access points are being arranged with cooperative land owners along the affected area. The cleanup will end with a cookout at staging area. In the event of bad weather, a rain date has been set for the following Saturday, March 19 . Edd hopes volunteers will not only come to help clean up the river but will take time to wet a hook and enjoy the beauty of our area’s namesake river. Volunteers are invited to help in useful ways in the water as well as support crew at the staging site. To pledge your support as a land owner, recovery volunteer, or support crew, call Edd Puckett at 47 9 -234-5 435 .
T hese are j ust a few of the m any duties of the Coroner' s office...
ARE THEY BEING DONE BY THE PRESENT CORONER? 1. Elected coroner should have appointed deputies to serve in the event that the elected coroner cannot. He should also make sure all deputies and law authorities are aware of his absence. 2. Elected coroner should attend and properly document ALL deaths in his county whether it be in home, hospice, nursing home, etc. 3. Elected coroner should be responsible for documenting and signing ALL death certificates related to coroner calls. 4. Elected coroner is responsible for the deceased and should remain with the deceased until it has been turned over to the funeral home or medical examiner. It is not the responsibility of our local Law Enforcement, EMT, or First Responders. 5. Elected coroner should always arrive with the proper equipment, supplies and extra personnel/deputies needed to take care of the deceased in a dignified manner. This is also not the responsibility of our local Law Enforcement, EMT, or First Responders. 6. ALL deceased personal information, photos, etc., should remain completely confidential between the coroner's office and proper authorities. 7. Elected coroner and/or deputies should arrive to the scene of a death in a timely manner.
To ensure that these obligations will ALWAYS be upheld..
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR BY RICHARD MYHAND
Weekly Publication
Loar Claims ‘Best Warrior’ Title
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE The competition begins early in the year with soldiers competing at the company level before moving on to battalion and then state, levels. Warriors making it to the state level were tested on many facets that range from a 1 .1-mile ruck march to stress shooting, land navigation, weapons ualifications, and a mystery event. “I don’t know if there is a particular event that is harder than any other. All three days had their own challenges. With the ruck march, I had to carry 60 pounds of gear. There is a famous hill called West Boundry Hill’ that you pretty much have to crawl on your hands and knees to get up,” Loar e plained. Loar, of the 2 rd Regional Training Institute, was the first to cross the finish line in the ruck march, completing the e hausting event with a time of hours 12 minutes and 2 seconds. After day one, the National Guard said, “The Soldiers and NCO’s started their day with the Army Physical Fitness Test at 0 a.m. in the 2 -degree weather. From there, these Guardsmen have been pushing themselves to their limits all day, running, shooting and completing Soldier tasks as more and more physical and mental fatigue builds up.” They also stressed that it’s not just a competition, but also a way for the soldiers to learn new tactics that can be taken back to their units and provide useful lifetime knowledge. Loar said, “It was a great e perience to win. The competition was tough. Each event had its own challenges and I was up against some of the best non-commissioned officers in the state who gave me a good run for my money in every event.” Loar is eligible to move on to the regional best warrior competition and if he wins there, he moves on to nationals. The national competition promises to be more grueling than the first. Their website boasts it as, “One of the toughest tests of a Soldier’s resolution and training is the Best Warrior Competition, a fiveday marathon of mental and physical trials that push these elite Soldiers beyond their limits.” Included in Loar’s 14 years of service are two deployments to Ira and one to New Me ico. Loar has also been awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Air Assault Badge, Army Mountain Warfare Badge and Governors Twenty Tab, Purple Heart Medal and two Army Commendation Medals with alor.
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citizen
January 6, 2016
Lawsuit
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
defendants and plaintiffs agreed to withdraw the case last Ju ne. One day later, the same case was filed in Polk County Circuit Court where in December 201 Judge Jerry Ryan approved a settlement of more than million that was agreed upon by both sides of the case. After reading an article in Arkansas Business about the case being on a Polk County docket, Holmes issued an order criticizing both the defense and plaintiff attorneys’ conduct and ordered them all to appear in his court on Thursday, February 18, 2016. Holmes said that the case had been re-filed under terms that the parties knew he wouldn’t approve. As many as seventeen lawyers, plus their lawyers, are set to be present for the hearing that will involve topics of legal ethics and court-forum shopping in multi-million dollar class-action lawsuits. The case has drawn the attention of national and state publications that said Ken Goodson, one of the lawyers set to appear in the hearing, is the husband of Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Courtney Goodson, and his firm Keil Goodson of Te arkana, have been in class-action controversy for several years with some accusing them of using
smaller courts, such as Miller County, Arkansas, to file large class action cases, which were then drug out so long in court that defendants settled rather than being stuck in legal limbo for years. Lawyers for the defense say no legal merit was considered in the cases, yet each case cost some defendants millions in fees, before payments for settlements were considered. An article published in Fortune in 201 cited Keil Goodson, along with two Te as firms, Ni Patterson Roach, and Crowley Norman, LLP, together took in more than 420 million in attorney’s fees from 2 settlements filed in Miller County Court between 200 and 2012. In March 201 , the U.S. Supreme Court put a halt to the law firms’ strategy of “trapping defendants in front of friendly and slow-moving elected judges in state courts.” Critics now believe the firms have changed their strategy and have moved beyond Miller County court to rope in other smaller courts. Some of the lawyers involved in the case have had their ethics uestioned before and although most are from Arkansas, it also involves attorneys from Te as, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
February 17, 2016
B USI N E SS & F I N A N CE Your Smartphone Can Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals
( StatePoint) Six ty-four percent of American adults have a smartphone, according to Pew Research Center, and that number is growing. Savvy smartphone users are doing a lot more with their devices than selfies. At the forefront of a smartphone’s capabilities is on-the-go money management, which personal finance e perts say can be a key tool to helping you www.unionbankofmena.com achieve your money goals. “Technology advances are giving banks an opportunity to further enhance their customers’ ability to manage their money,” says B rett Pitts, Retirement may be far off, H ead of Digital for Wells Fargo Virtual Channels. Want to get a better handle on your money? Pitts offers some tips for but the April 18 deadline for IRA making your smartphone your own personal banker contributions isn’t. Go mobile ou may have used your phone to log into your account via your bank’s website. Check your bank’s mobile application offerings and To learn more about the download its mobile app instead. U sing an app designed for device readadvantages of an E dward J ones ability will make transactions easier and more efficient. When downloading I R A, call or visit today. an app to your smartphone, make sure you’re using a trusted source. Make sure you download directly from your phone’s app store or your bank’s Visit us at any of our 4 locations. Ginger Sterner website. Financial Advisor • Main Branch Review functionality Mobile applications are always evolving and im• Northside Shopping Center 501c Hwy 71 North proving. Review your bank’s app functionality periodically to ensure you’re Mena, AR 71953 • Walmart 479-394-7940 up-to-date. For exa mple, Wells Fargo just added several new features to • Cove its already robust mobile banking suite. Once enabled, customers can view balance information with its FastLook swipe feature, as well as be notified of transactions via opt-in push notifications (without having to log in with a username and password) . MEMBER SIPC www.edwardjones.com 479-394-3552 Manage your money on-the-go Use your bank’s free money management services like online bill pay, mobile check deposit and mobile funds transfer. Get peace of mind before heading out for holiday shopping. Before purchases, use your phone to check account balances and make transfers as needed in order to avoid overdraft fees. Add automatic account alerts Preset limits for transactions and purchases, so you can be immediately notified when those limits have been e ceeded. This will help you track your spending and prevent you from breaking your budget. ou may also wish to sign up for other notifications, such as when your card is declined, your balance drops below a certain threshold or a direct deposit posts to your account. Get reminded Make late fees a thing of the past. Set up calendar reminders for credit card payments, mortgages and other bill due dates. our bank’s app may also have a built-in reminder feature to help you streamline payments. Keep contact details up-to-date Make sure your bank knows how to reach you. For e ample, some banks notify customers of possible suspicious card transactions through te t messages which allow customers to reply uickly to confirm whether the transaction is legitimate or not. More banking tech tips and resources can be found at wellsfargo.com mobile. Thanks to new user-friendly technologies, being responsible with your money is easier than ever. B e smart with your smartphone and use it to help meet your 2016 financial goals.
MENA HATFIELD - WICKES
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health
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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Tired of Paying Medical Bills – Try This Solution W
CONTRIBUTED BY LARRY WOOD
ell here we are into the second month of the new year and I have to stop and wonder how many out there are starting to think about there health just a little more. Are you happy with medical cost and drug prices that you have to pay to treat whatever you are being treated for? H ow about those multiple doctor visits that you may have already had to make, were those visits cheap? Not hardly, but I have to think people don’t mind paying them because I see so many people going everyday to get some kind of treatment or medicine for something. Now I know things happen and viruses strike, but I want to know how many of you are trying to avoid all this exp ense by doing things to strengthen your body and it’s immune system. Did you know that as little as two or three days per week on a regimental exe rcise program can significantly effect your immune system in a positive way, helping you fight off many of the problems that come around this time of the year. And the good thing to understand here is, it is so much cheaper than those doctor visits and prescriptions you have to pour hundreds and thousands out for. H ow about a simple thing as clean nutrient rich foods? Can that make a difference for your immune system? You bet it can, and the less process and minimal cooking you do to your food, the better. H ow about drinking plenty of water? Do you get enough? I know it seems to be harder when it is cooler but we all need to stay hydrated so as to make all processes in the body perform and function at an optimal level. Again, the cost of staying properly hydrated is very cheap but can save you thousands over your lifetime. Now, here is the biggest thing you can do and it costs you nothing but some time. Rest, and I mean deep sleep. Do you get January 6, 2016 enough? H ow much true sleep do you get Beth Polo Beckel RD LD CDE per night, 5 , 7 , 10, 12 hours or what? Do you know what is recommended for your age? Adults need at least 7 -9 hours per day, babies need 14-16 hours per day and teenagers need 12-14 hours per day. Do you realize lack of true sleep will break your body down and eventually can kill you? Now how cheap is that and don’t you like to feel energetic and alive and not drug our local down during your busy day? licensed Now put all this together with a sound exe rcise program and you can literally save yourself millions of dollars and gain a nutrition whole new functional you and feel really good about yourself. B ut, like everything, not everyone wants to be truly healthy as educator evidenced by the millions and millions that are being spent annually on symptom treating health-care. will always You may at this point be saying, ‘ Larry, you don’t think I care about my health, well you are wrong.’ I respond by saying ok, be in one then prove it by practicing the above mentioned things. If you are one of those who always has an excu se of why you can’t do these things, well you can continue to make those place... generous donations to the medical community. I know this sounds harsh but it just makes no sense for us in Polk County to be so fat and sick and doing so little to make positive changes in our lives. Folks, we are better than that and don’t have to live with these ridiculous exp enses if we simply choose not to and start keeping our health in check. Again, it is your choice, but I would be glad to help you save large sums of money and feel a whole lot better. Do it today.
Start the New Year Right by Eating Healthy!
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. . .February . . . . . . . . 17, . . .2016 ..................................................................................................................
at the capitol
26
Weekly Publication
State Inmate Population Continues to Increase L
CONTRIBUTED BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE
ITTLE ROCK – The number of inmates in state prison units continues to increase, as does the number of parolees who are released early for reasons such as good behavior. As the Parole B oard’s workload has become greater, the legislature has enacted new laws to strengthen the credentials of the B oard’s members. Act 89 5 of 2015 was the major prison reform law enacted by the G eneral Assembly last year, and many of its provisions are meant to stabiliz e prison overcrowding and to hold down the costs of operating prison units. Act 89 5 sets the professional credentials that a member of the Parole B oard must have. For ex ample, they must have at least a bachelor’s degree, and they must have at least five years’ e perience in fields like criminal justice, corrections, law enforcement, psychiatry and psychology, supervision of parolees and probationers or law. Act 89 5 prohibits Parole B oard members from holding other jobs, unless it is a job that has “ a limited time commitment” and the member has permission from the B oard chairman. The Parole B oard recently issued its annual report for 2015 , when it heard a record number of cases – 14,5 6 7 . Of those applications for parole, 10,339 were approved for early release of the inmate from prison. That is 7 1 percent. In Arkansas about 22,000 people are on parole, under various levels of supervision. About 3,000 are under max imum supervision, about 3,5 00 have to take drug and alcohol counseling, more than 9 ,100 must perform community service and more than 9 ,100 must undergo periodic drug testing. Almost 9 00 are in G ED classes, 5 45 wear an electronic bracelet and more than 2,000 are req uired to make restitution as a condition for being released on parole. About 6 ,000 are under a curfew and about 7 ,5 00 must abstain totally from drugs and alcohol. The Parole B oard also holds hearings to determine whether a parolee has violated the terms of his parole, and if so whether he should have to return to prison. Last year the B oard heard 5 ,86 2 cases and in all but 118 cases it revoked the parole of the violator. Act 89 5 added residential burglary to the list of felonies involving violence. That means inmates convicted of residential burglary must serve a longer portion of their sentence before they become eligible for parole. Act 12 of 201 also changes parole procedures, and will affect county jails and their finances. ncer: The act req uires timely hearings to be scheduled in parole revocations, within seven days. It also provides that parolees will be taken to the nearest facility of the state Correction Department, or Community Correction Department, if the sheriff does not agree to hold them in the local jail. This provision should give sheriffs greater financial e ibility during times of tight budgets. The backlog of state inmates in county jails has become a steadily worsening budget issue for county governto get ments. The state reimburses county governments when there is no space in state prisons and inmates must remain in county jails even after their convictions. Sheriffs and county officials say that the reimbursements are not enough to cover the costs for holding inmates in county jails.
Boozman Statement on Senate Passage of the North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act CONTRIBUTED BY U.S. SENATOR JOHN BOOZMAN
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ASH ING TON – U .S. Senator J ohn B ooz man ( R-AR) today issued the following statement after Senate passage of the “ North K orea Sanctions Enforcement Act of 2016 .” “ While President Obama has misjudged the threats posed by ISIS, Iran and Russia, he at-out ignored those posed by North Korea. The recent aggressive posturing by North K orea is the direct result of a rogue state feeling emboldened by the misguided approach of the Obama foreign policy doctrine. This failure of leadership has allowed K im J un-un to circumvent international sanctions, build his nation’s arsenal and intensify its cyber-espionage activity— all at the ex pense of the North K orean people who are tortured and starved by his regime. The deal the President made with Iran gives that regime cover to continue its illicit nuclear program. In a matter of time, the Iranians will simply follow the same course the North K oreans have to garner even more concessions from the West. That is why Congress is taking the proactive approach that the Administration should have taken in the first place. The unanimous passage of this bill sends a strong message to the dictators of the world— there is going to be a price to pay if you act out in this recklessly aggressive manner.” B ackground: The “ North K orea Sanctions Enforcement Act of 2016 ” req uires the President to mandate for sanctions anyone who can be tied to the following activities in North K orea: arms trade, development of weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery, procurement of lux ury goods, censorship, money laundering and counterfeiting. The sanctions would block all property and property interests on any designated person that are in, or come within, the U .S. or the possession of any U .S. person, among other things. Title II would req uest the President levy, as appropriate, new sanctions related to nuclear proliferation, human rights abuses, illicit activities and significant activities undermining cybersecurity. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 9 6 -0. A similar bill overwhelmingly passed the H ouse of Representatives in J anuary.
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Edi
Weekly Publication
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opinion
Letter17, to2016 the February
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Letters to the Editor are not edited for grammar or spelling and are printed exactly as they are received.
Dear Editor, I commend you for your spiritual insights that you share from Holy Spirit. I would like to comment on your Note From The Editor dated 2/3/2016. 2 Timothy 3 and 4: These verses as well as those of 2 Timothy 3: 1-5 speak volumes about the mind set of much of mankind. This nation is in it’s present state because throughout history from Adam and Eve there have been those that have refused to love sound doctrine. God says nowhere in scripture to start a seminary or denomination because He knew it would only bring division and confusion. That is exactly what has happened. The Word says, as the return of our Messiah grows closer, things will get worse and worse, not better and better as our politicians would have us believe. No political party or persons can save us or change anything until we recognize it is God’s plan, God’s time table, God’s Word and God’s government and God’s Son that controls all things. Until we allow Him first place in all things, we will continue to fail and our governments will continue to fail. Many will profess to be Christians, gather at churches, appear reverent to God, but will not the original New Testament apostolic faith with its emphasis on the manifestation of the Holy Spirit’s power and its call to holiness or “Set Apart” place in an evil and perverse generation. Today the people want compromised doctrinal teachings so that they do not have to be responsible and accountable for their actions. The church today has a form of Godliness but denies the power there of. Our politicians spin colorful promises but fail to deliver on most of them unless it benefits them and their careers and their bank accounts. Their words turn out to be nothing more than fables. I will say there are some devout men an women of God in Washington but they are very few and are vastly out numbered. Sincerely, Gary K. Bird
January 6, 2016
Dear Editor,
Hope this letter finds you in better health than our traffic light system. Late evening to early morning travelers have to stop at traffic light on Hwy 71 at Cherry Street when there is ZERO traffic on Cherry Street. This traffic light has a automatic cycle time of approx. 50 seconds set at this time, of which 15 sec. is green for Hwy 71, while 35 sec. are yellow or red for Hwy 71. All other Hwy 71 traffic lights are triggered by automobiles traveling on side streets. Sometime these lights take too long to change! Any stop and start cost every auto owner and owner operator money for fuel, tire wear, and brake wear. Hwy 71 is a major federal Hwy having to yield to minor cross street for no reason. I know traffic lights are needed to controll traffic flow. But to abuse traffic flow for no apparent reason has cause for concern. Who is in controll of our traffic lights: oil companies, someone with oil stock, etc., or just a plain [expletive]? We all know traffic light at Hwy 71 & Cherry St can be set for automobiles on Cherry St to trigger light change! PLEASE USE THIS METHOD!!! Dan Lindy P.S. Would like to know reason for traffic light set on this cycle and name of mastermind. Letters to the Editor Policy - The Polk County Pulse reserves all rights to reject submissions. Anonymous letters are not permitted. All letters to the editor must be signed, include author’s town of residence, and be free of the threat of libel. Letters must be 300 words or less. We prefer they stay in the bounds of sensibility and good taste. We reserve the right to authenticate letters before publishing.
Please make The Cole
Team Bold & larger than Williams the address & phone Medical numbers below it. Clinic,
L.L.C.
Omit the 800 number and address and Dr. Robertthe S. e-mail Williams, M.D. substitute All Major Insurance Accepted www.FarrellCole.com 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953 instead.
479-243-9024
In the web address across
New the Patients bottom, capitalize the M in Mena, the R in Welcome Real & the E in Estate.
MENA REAL ESTATE
Farrell & Sharon Cole
The Cole Team
816 S. Mena St. Mena, AR 71953 Office: (479) 394-5000 www.FarrellCole.com www.MenaRealEstate.com
history
28
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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Moments From America’s History: J ust w hat is cons erv atism?
( P art 2 of
2)
CONTRIBUTED BY JEFF OLSON • olsonjd@arkansas.net The conservative understands that society is held together by tradition and custom and immemorial usage; and he/she thinks that happiness comes from duty done, and from an understanding of the vanity of human wishes and ambitions outside the context of a transcendent moral order; and he/she also understands that, in a republic such as ours, government has to be personal before it can ever be practical or institutional. Today, our society is evolving into one devoid of reverence, variety, and higher imagination; toward a society in which “ everybody belongs to everybody else,” in which there exi sts collectivism without community, eq uality without love, reason dethroned by appetite. These principles lead us to see, as did David H ume, that politics is the art of the possible, not the art of the ideal. Conservatism represents no universal pattern of politics for adoption everywhere. This is because social institutions differ from nation to nation and it is those institutions which represent a country’s dominant religion, original customs, and historic exp erience all of which combine to comprise and characterize a country’s politics. Someone once said that the American Constitution is not for exp ort, and this is the basis for that fact. For the reasons and facts outlined here, we can further define conservatism (in the words of H . Stuart H ughes) as the negation of ideology. Ideology is essentially political fanaticism - a belief that this world of ours may be converted into a celestial paradise through the application of positive law and positive planning (positivism now under the guise of “ science” ) . Ideologues believe that human nature and society may be perfected by secular means through social and governmental institutions and often base their premises on speculative notions with no secure foundation in history, human exp erience, or in knowledge of the world. Since ideology is by essence antireligious, those who hold to traditional religious values tend to be attracted to conservatism. This leads us to see ideology in another way - as inverted religion because the ideologue tends to use religious symbols and invert religious doctrines for their own agendas. The scourge of ideology can easily be seen in looking back throughout history, such as the French Revolution in 17 89 , but it’s most recent impact has been seen in the Soviet U nion, Nazi s G ermany, China and, yes, even in the U nited States of America. A treatment of each of these is beyond the scope of this writing, but I will brie y share some commonality which should deeply concern and alert U .S.. As a free people become more and more dependent on a distant government, either by design or neglect or both, all intermediate civil and social institutions gradually become functionally nullified. It is within those entities that reside the bulwark of freedom in America because it is at these levels where relationships, trust, community, and other cohesive bonds of unity, interdependence, strength, and sovereignty are made and solidified. This was well e pressed as “ soft despotism” by Alexi s de Tocq ueville in his seminal work, Democracy in America which brings us to Cicero’s great uestion (as he witnessed the final years of the Roman Empire) that becomes more relevant every day. “ Tell me, how did you lose a republic as great as yours so q uickly? ” Indeed. So, what is it that we as conservatives should want to conserve? First: many would point to our Constitution - but remember Our constitution is, first and foremost, those original customs, habits, traits, and mores’ of our people and her institutions that provide the firm foundation for self-government - the unwritten constitution moral responsibility built up from the individual before G od; social order built from the family up; and political order built from the town and township (community) up. Second, within these we need to do our part in keeping humanity human; that we shall never come to the point that we become starved for hope, imagination and love. We should protect that heritage of civiliza tion that was beq ueathed to us by those who understood that we are indeed dwarfs standing on the shoulders of giants, able to see further than our ancestors because of their support, wisdom, and faithfulness. Third, we should want to protect the civil social order which as developed in America - our government of laws and not of men, our economy of volition rather than compulsion, our institutions designed to make man his CONTINUED ON PAGE 31
I’ve dedicated the last 22 years serving the citizens of Polk County, finding local solutions to local problems. Please allow me to continue serving Polk County as the next Sheriff and Collector. On March 1st, vote for experience, vote for integrity, vote for commitment to the community .
On March 1st Vote
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POLK COUNTY SHERIFF & COLLECTOR Paid for by friends and supporters of Scott Sawyer
arts
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
29
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Local Artists Shine T
he current e hibit at Mena Art Gallery, 60 Mena Street, showcases what local artists can do. There are paintings, pen and ink drawings, photography, and a wide variety of three-dimensional art on display. In addition to the special February exh ibit, most of which is for sale, our store area at the back of the gallery always has something new and interesting to see. The gallery is open on Tuesdays from 11 am to 2 pm and Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm. Plan one of your downtown trips so that you can take the time to stop in and browse. It’s a q uiet, comfortable place with lots to see. Either our E ecutive Director, Julie ande ande, will be there to greet you, or one of our many volunteers will be on hand to welcome you and answer any q uestions you may have. We are very fortunate to have so many talented artists here in the Mena area, so plan to stop by and enjoy the view.
CONTRIBUTED BY JUDY THOMPSON
T
he Jones, Hope, Wooten comedy, Dearly Beloved, opened this past weekend to laugh-filled audiences. Final performances will be Friday and Saturday, February 1 and 20 at 0 PM and the Sunday matinee, February 21, at 2 0 PM. Admission is only $ 8.00 with seniors 6 0 and over and students paying $ 5 .00. The admission costs for most OLT performances have been kept this low so that it will be very affordable entertainment for the community. J udy Thompson, director, notes that the cast of eleven have worked diligently for many weeks to present this play. The cast consists of J udy Weir ( Patsy) ; Lamar Austin (Dub) Elijah Barnes (John Curtis) Janelle Barnes (Twink) Marilyn Brown (Madam Nelda) Mark Castillo (Wiley) Tara Cornelius (Tina Gina) Ann Glenn (Geneva) Chris Kuskie (Justin) Denni Longoria (Honey Raye) and Deborah Tennison ( Frankie) . K atie O’Rear is serving as stage manager and Marilyn B rown is assistant director. Thompson notes that this is a great opportunity to get a group of friends together for a fun-filled evening. In addition, auditions for the upcoming musical, Oliver, will be this week: Wednesday, February 17 , 4:30 – 7 :00 PM; Thursday, February 18, 6 :00 – 9 :00 PM; Friday, February 1 , 4 0 0 PM Saturday, February 20, 00 AM noon. All auditions will be at RMCC, with Wednesday through Friday being in the lecture hall and Saturday at the T studio. Go to www.ouachitalittletheatre.org for complete information or call 24 -0186.
home & garden
Weekly Publication
Final Performances for Dearly Beloved This Weekend
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Walk Across Polk County CONTRIBUTED BY KIM HUGHES • khughes@uaex.edu
I
f folks can come from all over the world to walk across our beautiful county and enjoy its scenery, couldn’t you and a group of friends walk across Polk County for better health? Through a modest increase in daily activity, most Americans can improve their health. “ Walk Across Polk County” is a program that persuades and motivates people of all ages to make that most important change… to get started. It is a simple, inexp ensive, and safe program. All you need is a team of eight people and a desire to get moving. At the end of the program, winners are selected based on total number of minutes walked or exe rcised by individuals and teams. Prize s vary each year and are usually exe rcise eq uipment, such as exe rcise balls, hand weights, and maybe a Fit-B it bracelet for the overall winner. Top winners also receive an Olympic-like medal. So, dust off your walking shoes and prepare to join us in this 8-week walking and exe rcise program. First get a team together. Teams have eight members and biking teams are limited to four people. Choose a team captain and name your team. Registration deadline is Friday, March 11 at 5 :00 PM. The Walk Across Polk County K ick-Off is set for Saturday, March 19 at 10:00 AM at Ja nssen Park Pavilion. Registration fee is $ 10.00 per team member. The registration fee will cover cholesterol and glucose blood work, both before and after the activity. This activity is co-sponsored by Q uality of Life Outreach, Inc. Make checks payable to Q uality of Life ( OL). Registration packets are available at the E tension office at 211 De ueen Street in Mena. For more information, call 47 9 -39 4-6 018 or e-mail me at khughes@ 5 -L E TTE R W O R L D CI TI E S: AKRON BASRA BOISE BREST CADI CAIRO DA- uaex. edu. The Arkansas Cooperative Ext ension Service is an eq ual opportunity/eq ual access/ KAR DUBAI FARGO FLINT GHENT HANOI KABUL LA PA MACON MIAMI affirmative action institution. If you re uire a reasonable accommodation to particiMILAN MINSK PARIS PERTH RABAT SALEM SELMA TAMPA TOK O TOURS TULSA TURIN UKIAH UTICA pate or need materials in another format, please contact your County E tension office as soon as possible. Dial 11 for Arkansas Relay.
January 6, 2016
police
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February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
Mena Police Department February 7, 2016 fficers responded to a call regarding a do estic dispute at a local con enience store. o charges were filed. year old ena youth was charged with cri inal trespass and third degree battery. Case sent to u enile authorities. ichael Hensley, , of ena was charged with third degree battery after a call to a local residence. February 8, 2016 ichael Hook, , of ena was charged with W . nthony Harley, , of ort ith was charged with theft of property shoplifting . February 9, 2016 o reports on file. February 10, 2016 local an reported that a security ca era had been stolen fro his property. Case pending. February 11, 2016 wo reports were taken of possible prowlers at two local residences. o sus pects were located. wo reports were taken of gas skips at local con enience stores. Cases are pending. February 12, 2016 endra a is, , of ena was charged with possession of schedule V controlled substance ari uana , possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of sched ule or controlled substance, dri ing on a suspended dri er s license, ha ing no ehicle tags, and ha ing no proof of in surance. February 13, 2016 Report was taken of a hit and run acci dent at a local residence. Case is pend ing. Pol County Sheriff’s Department February 8, 2016 Report fro a ena an that his year old daughter was issing. he u enile was located and issued a u e nile Citation for isorderly Conduct. he
was released to the custody of a parent guardian. Report fro co plainant on Carolina ri e in ena of the fraudulent use of a credit card, totaling losses at . . n estigation continues. raffic stop on Highway West near ena led to the arrest of illy . her rouse, , of Co e, on Charges of W , ri ing eft of Center and Refusal to ub it. February 9, 2016 ehicle pursuit that began on High way West near Co e and ended in cCurtain County, klaho a, led to the arrest of i othy . ailey, , of Co e, on Pending Charges of W , Reckless ri ing, leeing, two counts of ggra at ed ssault on a aw nforce ent fficer, ri ing with a uspended ri er s i cense, Possession of a irear by Cer tain Persons, o iability nsurance and llegal se of a ag. Report fro co plainant on Highway West near Co e of a ehicle fire. rrested was a es . ay, , of ena, on a Charge of Public nto ication. Report of an V accident on Polk near rannis. rrested was Christopher . ougan, , of ash ille, on a Warrant for ailure to Co ply with a Court rder. rrested by an officer with the rannis Police epart ent was urnie . Clark, , of Wickes, on a Warrant for W . rrested was i y R. ane, , of or an, on a ody ttach ent Warrant. February 10, 2016 rrested was i y . a is, , of ount da, on Warrants for Violation of uspended position of entence and two counts of ailure to Pay ines. rrested was ackson H. Riley, , of ena, on a Warrant for Probation Viola tion. Report fro a ena an of proble s with child custody e change. February 11, 2016 Report of a do estic disturbance on Heritage ane near Hatfield. ub ect left the residence before deputies arri ed. February 12, 2016 Re uest for a welfare check on Roys ter ane in the Potter co unity. Report fro co plainant on Polk near Co e of the theft of ehicle parts, to taling losses at , . . n estigation continues. Report of a da aged gas line at the Vander oort le entary ca pus.
he disco ery of inappropriate aterial on a cell phone led to a year old ena ale being issued a u enile Citation for Possession of e ually plicit aterial. he u enile was released to the custody of a parent guardian. February 13, 2016 Report fro co plainant on Highway orth near ena of a do estic distur bance. nfor ation has been pro ided to the Prosecuting ttorney s ffice for fur ther consideration. Report of a fire in a ditch on Polk near ena. February 14, 2016
rrested by a trooper with the rkan sas tate Police was ob . Wilco , , of ena, on an klaho a Warrant. Polk County heriff s ffice worked three ehicle accidents this week. Polk County etention Center ail Population ncarcerated n ates n ates currently on the Waiting ist for a tate acility, of which is currently out of ail on a onitoring syste . SCAM REPORT: People claiming to be from the IRS are calling local residents wanting personal information. IRS does not work this way. The IRS contacts taxpayers by mail. Be aware.
classifieds
February 17, 2016
Weekly Publication
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................................................................................................................................ UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1 • 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 H Park and Rentals. Hwy orth, ena, R. .
J & N Dozer – rackhoe, ackhoe, u p ruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling, Rich op oil, ill irt, hale, ra el. o er perator Randy gger, o er years e perience. We appreciate your usiness Call . elp Wanted: artender full ti e ust work nights and weekends. pply ena lks odge, lk ane, ena. Precision copy and restoration of art, photos, negati es and slides. ichael Cate . Harris Fence ser ing ena surrounding areas chain link, pri acy and inyl no ob too s all, repairs all o er years e p.
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Two Women a op housecleaning done the way it should be. Will also detail new construction. Call or . The Knights of Colu bus will ha e a fish fry eb, , , at th treet t. gnes Hall. enu will include fried fish, hushpuppies, beans, cole slaw, desserts and drinks. ll you can eat. dults . , Children . , ediate fa ily . . er ing fro p. . to p. . Sale: Living Roo urniture ike new two gold chairs and atching couch your choice. lso, ery nice aple desk. .
Yard Mowing, Weed ating, ush Hogging, Handy an er ices, Power Washing, arden Plowing illing. Ha e ractor with ple ents for larger obs. lso firewood for sale. Call .
FOR RENT in ena ice bed bathroo laundry roo , sto e, refrigerator, dishwasher, central h a, carport, near ouise urha , fenced backyard. a onth ecurity eposit. References Re uired. ot H ppro ed. o oking. o Pets. for an appoint ent. Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Ho e repair, decks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. lso lawn and garden work. Call .
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citizen
Pet of the Week ypsy is a beauty his lo ely eist is yrs old which eans she ualifies for our olden Paws progra for seniors to adopt her, call to see if you ualify he is a lo ely rich dark brindle and white. ypsy is acti e, playful, and alert with good energy. art too he knows sit shake. ypsy is on the s all side of ediu si ed, only pounds, and is house trained with a dog door. he has her shots and is spayed. ypsy would lo e to be adopted Give us a call. ou’ll be glad you did OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (479) 394-5682 • WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org • HSO is a NO KILL Shelter. SO is not affiliated with any other local, state or national animal rescue organization. HSO is a 501(c)(3) organization. Please consult your ta advisor to see if your donation is ta deductible.
Moments From America’s History: CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
history
January 6, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .January . . . . . . . . 6, . . .2016 .... Humane Society of the Ouachitas own master and allow him his own destiny of purpose through innovation, invention, creativity, and compassion; and our political system which prefers variety and respect for individuality to centraliz ed uniformity and sentimental collectivism. We must guard with vigilance what has been handed down to us from age to age. We as a people; We The People need to become more serious about not only what we believe but why we believe it. Do we truly have conservative convictions on issues and, if so, do we hold on to them only vaguely as prejudices or as reasoned conclusions? Perhaps we need to begin deeper thought and search what will awaken our awareness, cogniz ance, and perspectives of the people, motives, and events which today are shaping much of our future and that of our children. J ust as America’s culture, laws, constitution, and government were built from the ground up, if they are to be reclaimed it will also be from the ground up - from the individual to the homes to the churches to the community, and to each level of government. As I think about this, I am reminded of a scene from the classic 19 39 motion picture Mr. Smith G oes To Washington, where Senator J efferson Smith ( played by J ames Stewart) ex pressed his conviction to Congress that the lost causes are the ones most worthy of fighting for, and fight he did - alone and almost to his last breath. Of course I am not saying that America is a lost cause, but the lesson here is that our cause, the American cause, is worth fighting for and it can only be won if we have such a commitment and resolve as did Mr. Smith; as if the victory depended upon you and me alone. The knowledge, ex perience, faith, and wisdom of our nation’s founding fathers led them to live their lives with a great legacy to generations yet unborn who would carry the torch of freedom forward. Today, we are those generations carrying that torch and its light has been dimmed, but we must not ever let it be ex tinguished. That torch carries with it a proud tradition of conservatism which, if renewed, can re-charge that light, re-vitaliz e our great country’s roots, and affect real change; change which will not transform America but return her back home where she belongs.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
February 17, 2016
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