February 1, 2017

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February 1, 2017

THE POLK COUNTY

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

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Sheriff’s Deputies Apprehend Armed Subject After High-Speed Pursuit

BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

Polk County Sheriff’s Deputies began their Monday morning with a high-speed pursuit of a person who fired shots into the air at two convenience stores in South Polk County on January 30, 2017. At approximately 6:30 a.m., Polk County Dispatch advised deputies of a report from TJ’s Convenience Store in Hatfield of a subject that had pumped fuel and failed to pay. Dispatch advised the subject left that location, but returned a short time later, pulled into the parking lot, and discharged a firearm from the window of his vehicle into the air. The CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Tyler Wilson to be Keynote Speaker at 2017 Chamber Banquet

BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com Former Razorback Tyler Wilson will be the guest speaker at the 2015 Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce Banquet, which promises to be a “fun, causal tailgating experience.”

Wilson is a native of Greenwood, Arkansas, where he graduated in 2008 and helped lead his team to three consecutive state championships. He threw for over 8,000 yards with 93 touchdown passes in his two starting years at Greenwood.

He was also a top baseball player as a pitcher at Greenwood and was named the GatoCONTINUED ON PAGE 8

MRHS Adds Several Services in 2016

BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com PHOTO BY MELANIE BUCK

A bald eagle is ready to soar again following rehabilitation at the Arkansas Native Plant and Wildlife Center by Tommy Young. The adult bald eagle was found in late 2016 near Hot Springs with multiple injuries. The eagle will return to the wild in March 2017. For more information, turn to page 4 of this issue.

Mena Regional Health System had a busy year during 2016, with campus projects, surgeries, babies, and much more. MRHS CEO Jay Quebedeaux said that some of the biggest changes at the hospital during 2016 included changing ER groups, implementing digital mammography, an infusion therapy line, and resumed total knee and hip replacement surgeries.

In December, The Sessions Group took over Emergency Room services, bringing in new doctors and placing an emphasis on customer service. “They are very customer service oriented and I think they’re going to do a great job for us,” said Quebedeaux. “We are trying

Mena’s Newest Event Venue! THE GREEN ROOM RESERVE YOUR DATE: 479-394-3737

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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Neugent Wins Arkansas Festival & Events Association “Volunteer SUBMITTED of the Year” Award

ena City Council member and Advertising & Promotion Commission member Terri Neugent was recognized by the Arkansas Festival & Events Association on January 26 as the winner of the Association’s 2016 “Volunteer of the Year” ALFiE Award.

The award was presented to Neugent at the Association’s Annual Conference & Trade Show in Little Rock for her “significant enthusiasm and specific expertise while showing initiative and providing leadership, dependability, and a positive attitude” in her efforts with Mena’s signature annual event, the Lum & Abner Festival.

Since 2014, Neugent has served as the Chair of the Mena A&P Commission’s Festivals & Events Committee.

In that role, she has led efforts for not only the Lum & Abner Festival but also the annual Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration, the Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run Saturday Night Street Dance & Concert, and the Mena Christmas Festival, all of which are important special events for the community and Mena’s tourism industry.

The ALFiE Awards recognize outstanding examples of quality, creativity, and achievement in the festivals and events industry. This is the second ALFiE award won by the Lum & Abner Festival. The first was in 2007 when the Festival was awarded “Best New Festival.” Neugent said the award was a surprise. She knew she was a finalist but had no idea should would win. “I was very honored to be presented the award. I love this great city of Mena and the Mena A&P’s Lum and Abner Festival.

It requires a lot of hard work and a lot of time over many months of planning and organizing, but it is worth every minute because they produce an excellent festival with wonderful vendors, events, and entertainment that many from all over enjoy every year.”

DAV to Raffle Quilt

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he Disabled Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA) is raffling off a beautiful quilt called “Cabin Star,” handmade by Linda Spurgin, a member of Ouachita Unit #46. It is 100x120 inches in size. The raffle proceeds will be used to help the organization fund projects supporting veterans in Polk County and at the Veterans Hospital in Little Rock and North Little Rock. Arvest Bank in Mena is displaying the quilt at the entrance of the bank for all to see. Tickets can be purchased at the bank teller windows or from any DAVA member, or by calling Carol Burns, (479) 394-5310.

BY MELANIE BUCK

news@mypulsenews.com

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Mena Area Board of Local Special Needs Support Group Finds

BY MELANIE BUCK Realtors Meeting news@mypulsenews.com Commonality in Others

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On January 24, 2017, the Mena Area Board of Realtors held a continuing education class at the Union Bank Community Room.

Dana Parent, Sales Associate, CRS, GRI, of Coldwell Banker in Little Rock, taught the class that covered one hour of realtor safety and six hours of training over contracts.

The Arkansas Real Estate Commission requires that all existing real estate agents complete at least six hours of continuing education each year.

local area special needs group is available to parents across the county and member, Amanda Posey, said the group welcomes any family who wishes to join, regardless of their child’s age. B.A.S.E. – Building, Accepting, Supporting, and Educating – is a group that formed in April 2015 and officially became a non-profit organization in July 2016.

Posey said the group was formed after she attended a ladies’ retreat a couple of years ago. “It was one of those things that I came back with on my heart. I called a couple of ladies that were also special needs parents and asked them if they thought it was something I could do. They just jumped at the idea,” Posey explained.

Being the parent of a special needs child herself, Posey and some other parents began meeting and slowly but surely, by word of mouth, the group grew. “Some of these people I had not met but they were friends of my friends and we formed a coalition. It has led us to branch out with other ideas,” Posey said. That’s when the name and process of becoming a non-profit formed.

B.A.S.E. now meets the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center, 300 Dallas Avenue, in Mena. “It’s for special needs families. We are very open to all disabilities and all families,” she explained. “It’s very laidback. We have a high school student who takes care of childcare. It’s got a gym area so kids can run and play while we meet and they are in a room next to the parents. It’s worked out really well for us.”

When the group gets together, they tell their stories, share advice, and exchange a commonness that only they could know. “We talk about our kids, their journeys, their medicines, the things we encounter as special needs parents, IEP’s, therapy or special diets, or situations that arise.” One of the benefits gained is getting advice from parents with a child older than yours, someone who has been there and worked through the trial-and-error system. “As it’s evolved, I can see parents of older kids with parents of younger kids and those parents can bounce ideas off of each other and gain knowledge.”

Another way the group has evolved over the months is advocacy. “We have gone from sharing our journeys to the fact of being more advocates of our kids in the community.” Posey explained that parents and friends recently wrote letters to congressmen to urge them to vote for HB 1033 [a House Bill], that calls for the diversion of $8.5 million from the tobacco settlement fund to fund the needs of a waiting list with 3,000 Arkansans that have intellectual or developmental disabilities and are waiting for community-based or in home services. “There is strength in numbers and we wanted our voices heard,” Posey said. The bill passed the Arkansas House of Representatives in late January and currently awaits Senate approval.

“I have realized how much we need support from each other and our community,” said Posey. “We hope our stories make others realize what our kids are able to do.

There may be deficits, but we need to look at how can we take their strengths to make them fly, and we need community support to do that.”

Posey emphasized that there is no age limit for the child in their group. “We have families with kids of all ages. You can learn from that because someone else has been through a similar journey you are on. My child will be 18 this year and it kind of becomes a whole new ball game. They are becoming an adult and there are a lot of changes that you wouldn’t realize but with others, they can help you know what’s coming.”

Posey encourages others with special needs children to participate in the group.

Their mission is: “To build acceptance, support, and educate families through integrated community support. We strive to help specials needs individuals find love, hope, and acceptance, while becoming active, happy, and helpful citizens.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

January 6, 2016

Do you struggle with a drug or alcohol addiction?

Dr. Hopper can help you with treatment and recovery counseling.

Areas of specialty include: • Anxiety • Depression • Difficulty Managing Stress • PTSD • Drug and Alcohol Addiction • Bipolar Disorder • Schizophrenia Phone: 479-394-7301 1102 Crestwood Circle, Mena Fax: 479-394-7160

PCDC Rachael Hopper, PH.D, LADAC

Call or come by our office today to schedule your appointment.

Also, accepting new patients!

Medicaid not accepted.

Private Pay Discounts Available.

479-394-4535 Open 7 Days a Week

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1/2 Price Main Store & Kid’s Store

201 S. Morrow & 811 Eagle Gap Mena, AR 71953

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Bald Eagle Set to Fly Back to the Wild

BY MELANIE BUCK • news@mypulsenews.com

Love Trumps Hate Rally

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ildlife Rehabilitator Tommy Young is preparing for his next bald eagle release. The release will be held in Fort Smith at Riverside Park on Saturday, March 4th at noon.

Young has been rehabilitating the adult bald eagle since December when it was brought in after being found with a head injury near Hot Springs. Young explained that in addition to the head injury, it also had a fractured wing and ligament sling. “Dr. Sullivan and I will have to go in and scrape out a calcium deposit that has built up on the wing, causing it to be unable to fly,” Young said at the time. After that procedure and weeks of rehabilitation, the bald eagle is ready to soar again. All are welcome to attend the release.

As spring approaches, Young is gearing up for his busiest season and donations are always accepted and appreciated. Monetary donations can be made by mailing to: P.O. Box 1881, Mena, AR 71953. Or, direct bank drafts can be sent to Arkansas Native Plant and Wildlife Center accounts at either Union Bank of Mena or Bear State Bank. Non-monetary donations are also needed. Many of the supplies needed can be purchased at the Farmer’s Co-op in Mena and left for Young to pick up. For more information, contact Young at 479-437-3750.

As a 501(c)3 organization, all donations are tax deductible.

Shelter Insurance Scholarship Available SUBMITTED

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his spring, the Shelter Insurance Foundation will award a $2000 scholarship to a graduate of Mena High 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, citizenship, 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 January and should be completed and returned to the school official serving on the selection committee by March 31st. 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 headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

Around a dozen citizens showed up at the Polk County Courthouse on Inauguration Day just after newly-elected President Donald Trump was officially sworn-in on Friday, January 20, 2017. Organizers of the “Love Trumps Hate” event said, “This peaceful assembly is being held on Inauguration Day, in solidarity with the Women’s March on Washington scheduled for the following day. Some of us are unable to participate in that march or Little Rock/Fayetteville’s march, and this assembly gives us the opportunity to peacefully express our views and show support.”

at Mena

Assisted Living

Immediate Openings Available

The Oaks at Mena is committed to providing personalized care that exceeds the expectations of our residents.

Quality care is provided by our staff of respectful and compassionate team members.

At our assisted living community, residents enjoy:

Dr. Kervin Putman Palmer Graduate

479-437-4444 701 S. Morrow, Mena menaspineandrehab.com

Manufacturer of Quality CNC Parts

479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344

• meals • a beautiful, convenient apartment • maintenance-free living • activity and exercise program • daily assistance with dressing, grooming, showering, medication

www.theoaksatmena.com

Poultry Growers and Nutrient Applicators Invited to Meetings SUBMITTED

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he Rich Mountain Conservation District would like to invite all poultry growers in Polk Country to their Annual Poultry Registration Meeting that will be held February 16th at the Farm Bureau Conference Room (309 Morrow Ave., Mena) at 6:00 p.m. The topic this year is energy conservation. Guest speakers are Dr. Yi Liang, Assistant Professor at the University of Arkansas and Randy Busbea, Certified Energy Auditor. They will present innovative energy saving strategies to help you to save energy and money on heating, cooling, and lighting.

Poultry growers will have an opportunity to register their farm, enjoy a BBQ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Cossatot River School District to Upgrade Shooting Range

BY MELANIE BUCK for Youth news@mypulsenews.com

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ossatot River School District is adding a shooting range to their high school grounds for their ever-growing Youth Shooting Sports program.

Scott Morgan is the Ag Instructor at Cossatot River High School and said they have had the program since 2009 and have a practice area, but the upgrades will bring the range up to look and feel like those they compete at.

“We have some land that is an outdoor classroom through a partnership with NRCS, National Resource Conservation Service,” explained Morgan.

There is an area in the northern/northwestern edge of the property that is currently used as the trapshoot practice area and with a little work, and the addition of shooting platforms, the project will be complete. However, there is the issue of funding the project.

Morgan said the work will be done on a volunteer basis and it began with Mark Duggan bringing in his own tractor and providing his time, on Thursday, January 26. Amy Bult, Water Quality Technician at Rich Mountain Conservation District, said, “Today students helped build a retaining wall made of railroad ties that will be back-filled with dirt. This will make a flat spot for their skeet machine. Mark Duggan volunteered his time, tractor, and talent and KCS [Kansas City Southern Railroad] donated the cross ties over a year ago.”

Mr. Morgan said the improvements “will allow them to duplicate the scenario they will shoot at competitions. We want to set it up as close to them as possible for regional and, hopefully, state tournaments.”

The popularity of trapshooting has been on the rise in recent years across the region with many schools now offering shooting sports. “The goal of the program, for us, is it’s another activity we can offer and gives students an option or avenue to feel like they are part of a team. They have a sense of accomplishment and get to experience something that helps build a relationship with others,” said Morgan.

January 6, 2016

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Arkansas Agriculture Department Opens the 2017 Century Farm Program through May

SUBMITTED

he Arkansas Agriculture Department (AAD) is now accepting applications for 2017 Arkansas Century Farm Inductees. Century Farm families have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. This program honors Arkansas’ rich agricultural heritage, and since the beginning in 2012, has certified 341 farms and families. Applications are available at aad.arkansas.gov.

To qualify, farms must meet the following criteria: • The same family must have owned the farm for 100 years by December 31, 2017. The line of ownership from the original settler or buyer may be through children, grandchildren, siblings, and nephews or nieces, including through marriage and adoption.

• The farm must be at least 10 acres of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income.

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson said, “Agriculture is part of the fabric, fiber, and culture of Arkansas,” at the 2016 Arkansas Century Farm Inductee Ceremony. “These families represent a commitment to agriculture and a commitment to family values,” he continued.

The U.S. has over 2 million farms collectively, across 915 million acres; 97% of those farming operations are family owned. Arkansas has over 43,000 farms, across 13 million acres. (data provided by the USDA Census of Agriculture).

There is no cost to apply for the Century Farm program, and any farm landowners may apply. Applications may be obtained from the AAD by calling Mary Elizabeth Lea at 501683-4851, email her atMaryelizabeth.Lea@aad.ar.gov, or visit aad.arkansas.gov for an online form. Applications must be postmarked May 31, 2017 to be eligible for designation as an inductee farm this year.

The Arkansas Agriculture Department is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation.

Polk County Republican Committee Elects New Officers T

SUBMITTED BY ERMA MIZE

he Polk County Republican Committee met Monday evening, January 16th at the Polk County Library with a large group in attendance. First Vice-Chair, Erma Mize, presided in the absence of Chairman John Maddox, who is serving at the State Capitol as newly elected District 20 State Representative. Officers elected for two year terms for 20172018 were: Chairman, John Maddox, First Vice-Chair, Erma Mize, 2nd Vice-Chair, Gar Eisele, Secretary, Paula Galvan, all for re-election. Bill Beam replaces Bob Cooney as Treasurer. Rich Ray chose not to run for re-election on the Election Commission, after serving the party well for ten years. Two qualified Republican candidates, LaDon Copelin and Gar Eisele, were voted on for Position 2, with LaDon Copelin being elected. Bernie Mize will continue as Republican Election Commissioner in Position 1.

Recently elected Republican Sheriff, Scott Sawyer was the special speaker. He was introduced by Polk County Judge, Brandon Ellison. Scott had been asked to speak on the topic of “Awareness” covering several items he had researched.

Those included the rumors we have heard for several years about Muslim camps near Talihina, and several other things that are potential dangers for Polk County, as well as the country. From his research, it is believed that presently there are no active Muslim camps in Talihina. However, we should keep informed and be aware of anything questionable going on around us.

“We celebrated our own New Sheriff in Town, Scott Sawyer, for his victory in the election -- and his very timely and informative speech with the ultimate treat, pies by Shelton Bolhman,” said Erma Mize.

Poultry Growers and Nutrient Applicators CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 sandwich dinner, and get their questions answered by the experts. Please RSVP 479-3941782 x3.

A Nutrient Applicator Certification Training will be put on by The University of Arkansas Extension Service and the Rich Mountain Conservation District on February 21st at the Extension Service Education Center (211 DeQueen Street, Mena) at 6:00 p.m. This training is recommended for all individuals who apply nutrients from litter or commercial fertilizer, and is required for those that apply nutrients in the Nutrient Surplus Area (Mountain Fork River Watershed). A Private Applicator Certification enables you to apply nutrients to land you own or control and enables you to hire non-certified applicators to work under your supervision on your land. This is obtained by attending the training and submitting an application with the $30 application fee.

A Commercial Applicator Certification enables you to apply nutrients to land outside of your ownership or control. To obtain this certification you must attend the training, submit an application with the $60 fee, pass a test, and pay a $25 testing fee. The test will be administered the day of the training. Both certifications are valid for 5 years. For more information and to RSVP, please call the Polk County Extension Office at 479-3946018.

February 1, 2017

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

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saturday

The 28th Annual Mena FFA Alumni Consignment Auction

February 4, 2017

anyone can buy anyone can sell no buyer’s premium! get your items consigned early!!

To consign items, please call: Rondal Mullen: Allen Stewart: Jimmy Martin:

234-1745 394-1731 216-2488

Steve Singleton: Brian Erickson:

243-5675

David Head:

394-1960

Tim Kiser: Dar rell Mos: Dedrick Hale:

243-7512 394-4539 234-1549 394-2997

PARTIAL LISTING!!

Vehicles: 1997 Chevy C7500 Diesel Dump Truck 8 Yard Bed; 2005 Chevy Z71 pickup; Hyundai Sonata; 2004 Chevrolet Impala(gold); 2005 Ford Expedition 4X4(gold); 2010 Dodge Charger (Hemi); 1991 Toyota truck 4X4 (red); 1994 Chevrolet Camaro (red); 1994 Chevrolet Camaro(white); 2002 Chevrolet S10 4 door 4X4, 4.3 liter V6 automatic (146k miles) Tools and Misc: (2) set new tires LT 245/75R17; Several assorted used Plastic Culverts; Electric Shop Fan(needs motor); 4000 watt Generator(no carburetor); (2) Oxygen Bottles; Several sheets of Used Fiber Board; XMark Zero Turn mower; several Bicycles; several Used Security Lights; Industrial Limb Cutter for side arm on tractor; several used Truck and Tractor tires; Used 8 Yard Dump Bed; Aluminum Door with Frame; 250 gallon Oil Tank with pump; several short pieces of Steel Pipe(16 inch, 20 inch, 24 inch diameter), 2000 Vermeer Rebel 5400 series round baler string wrap, 2 old farm trucks

rain or e n i h s

Consigned items can be checked in on Friday, Feb. 3rd from 9am-5pm or on the day of the sale until sale starts.

CO-SPONSORED BY UNION BANK

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Start Your County Fair Projects Now SUBMITTED BY KIM HUGHES

on’t wait until the end of summer. The Polk County Fair is August 28 – September 2. What can you enter in the Education Building? Just about anything you have made at home since the last fair – art, crafts, food preservation, sewing, photography, quilting (quilts, clothes, pillow, totes, etc.), jewelry, weaving, candy, baked goods, pottery and more!

Anyone that lives in Polk County from small children to the oldest adults can enter our fair. Divisions are divided into three age groups: Adults - 19 and older; Juniors - ages 13-18; and Youth - ages 12 and under. We count your age as the age you are on the first day of the fair. If a group of the same age range makes something, it can be entered as a “group” under the correct age group.

It’s always fun to make things with others. Consider asking friends to get together to work on your projects for the fair. What about making things with children or grandchildren? They usually enjoy creating things they can enter in the fair and maybe even win a ribbon. Summer camps are also a good place to create with children. Adults should bring their own items, but parents can bring and enter children’s items while they are in school.

Did you know that if you win first, second or third place you will also win money? When you pick up your entries on Sunday after the fair, you will also get your check. First wins $3, second wins $2, and third wins $1. With several entries, your winnings can really add up.

The Polk County Fair and Rodeo Association is a 501c3 educational entity and is totally run by volunteers.

High Speed Chase

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subject’s vehicle was described as a black Ford F150 four-door truck.

Deputies made contact with the witnesses at TJ’s and were able to determine the identity of the subject as Greg Allen Cunningham. While at TJ’s, deputies learned that after Cunningham initially left that location, he had traveled to Scotty’s in Cove, discharged a firearm into the air while in their parking lot, and then returned to TJ’s in Hatfield.

While deputies were patrolling the area, they were able to locate Cunningham, who was traveling east on Highway 246 towards Hatfield in the vehicle described by witnesses. Deputies attempted to stop Cunningham, to which he did not respond. A vehicle pursuit started at the intersection of Polk 38 and Highway 246W near Hatfield. While in pursuit of the vehicle, Stop Sticks were deployed by Arkansas State Police to disable the vehicle, but Cunningham was able to avoid them. The pursuit continued north on Highway 71 from Hatfield, with Cunningham traveling at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour.

Arkansas State Police were again able to deploy Stop Sticks and disabled two tires on the subject’s vehicle. After striking the stop sticks, the pursuit continued approximately two miles before Cunningham stopped his vehicle in the middle of Highway 71 just south of Iron Mountain just before 9 a.m. Cunningham refused to follow commands issued by the deputies, and after a short standoff, the subject was removed from the vehicle and placed safely into custody.

Cunningham is currently detained in the Polk County Detention Center awaiting formal charges. Possible charges, pending the investigation, could include theft of motor fuel, felony fleeing, and aggravated assault.

The Pulse will continue to update the story as more information becomes available.

MENU

Elks Members and Guests

Steak Dinner

16 oz. NY Strip, Baked Potato, Salad Bar, Dessert

$20 per person

Dinner 6-8 p.m.

Admission: $5 for members $6 for non-members (Proceeds for dance benefit the Emblem Club)

Dinners must be reserved

by February 6 8 p.m. to Midnight

Elks Lodge 124 Elk Lane Hwy. 375 East

Come by the lodge or call 394-9919 to reserve your dinner.

(Proceeds for dinner benefit the ENF fund)

Wilson Speaks at Chamber Banquet CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

rade Player of the Year for 2007-08. He had a career record in pitching of 32-9 with 386 strike outs in 251.1 innings. Following his graduation, he attended the University of Arkansas, becoming a quarterback for the Razorbacks, being named as starting quarterback in his junior year.

Wilson holds 20 Arkansas records that include career passing yards, total plays in a season, and consecutive pass attempts, as well as many season records for the Razorbacks.

The 2017 Chamber Banquet will be held at CMA on Thursday, April 6th. Ticket sales and event announcements will be made on the Chamber’s Facebook page, ‘Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce.’ All proceeds of the event benefit the Chamber’s 2017 Scholarship Program.

JULIA FAYE BENTLEY

Julia was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Gene Blevins; three sisters, Joy Blevins, Marion Dale and Gladys McDonald; and daughter in law, Patsy Bentley.

Julia is survived by her husband of 65 years, Clifford E. Bentley of Board Camp; three sons and daughtersin-law, Michael S. Bentley of Magnolia, Arkansas, Doug and Berva Bentley of North Little Rock, Arkansas, and Chip and Suzanne Bentley of Board Camp, Arkansas; her daughter and son-in-law, Melanie and Donnie Cowart of Langley, Arkansas; two sisters, Sandra Aikman and husband, Len of Huntsville, Alabama and Ruby Dale Fehlig of Spokane, Washington; twelve grandchildren, Beth Rinehart, Michelle Marlette, Gene Bentley, Josh Bentley, Vici Jenkins, Douglas Bentley, Matt Cowart, Julie Nichols, Craig Bentley, Kim Chambers, Rick Burt, Matt Edwards; eighteen great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 24, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. at the Board Camp Baptist Church with Brother Lynn Chil-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Auto-Home-Life-Motorcycle Mobile Home-Boat-ATV

Get’s you back where you belong.

Christy Medlin Insurance Agent

MEDLIN INSURANCE AGENCY 900 Hwy. 71 N. Mena, AR 71953

LICENSED IN OKLAHOMA & ARKANSAS cmedlin@farmersagent.com 479-394-5555

MRHS in 2016

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

to turn a corner with better customer service and feel that Sessions will help us with that.”

“We are very proud of our digital mammography. It was the last piece of non-digital equipment,” Quebedeaux explained. With the digital machine, patients will be able to obtain a disc to take to another doctor. “It has really increased our mammography business. It’s a more thorough test and a pretty sizeable investment. We’re happy to have been able to do that.”

MRHS also began a new infusion therapy line around three months ago. Infusion therapy treats an array of chronic illnesses and Quebedeaux said the new service will keep many patients from having to travel long distances to get the treatment.

Resuming total hip and knee replacements has been a key to the hospital’s success throughout 2016. With the addition of Dr. Tariq Nazi, Orthopedic Surgeon, those surgeries have returned. A nurse practitioner will join him soon. Specialty clinic services have also expanded to DeQueen and have created a partnership with the hospital there in a deal that Quebedeaux said benefits both hospitals.

MRHS also fixed their long-time drainage issues and with that allowed them to lay new flooring down in the front entrance.

MRHS was also named as one of iVantage Health Analytic’s Top 100 Rural and Community Hospitals in the United States. The iVantage Hospital Strength INDEX is the industry’s most comprehensive rating of rural and critical access hospitals. Hospitals are measured across more than 70 different performance metrics, including quality, patient outcomes, patient perspective, affordability, population risk and efficiency.

“Mena Regional Health System is proud of the efforts of our physicians and staff who have contributed to our achieving this designation,” stated Quebedeaux. “As the only rural hospital in Arkansas that made the Top 100 List, we will continue to work diligently to increase quality, patient outcomes, safety and satisfaction while achieving that value with reduced costs and charges. Without the support of our local community, these accomplishments would not have been achievable.”

Quebedeaux was also pleased about their number of patient visits to their various offices.

Totals for 2016 include 21,504 Clinic Visits; 8,647 Emergency Department Visits; 1,257 Surgeries; 1,401 Admitted Patients; and delivered 295 babies.

January 6, 2016

Special Needs Support Group

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 To learn more, contact Amanda Posey at 479-243-5898; Jennifer Mabry, 479-2163170; Linda Shelly, 479-234-6197; or Christy Plunkett, 479-243-3483. The group also has a Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/BASEOFTHEOUACHITAS/.

The group also incorporates family outings, play dates, and other community events focused on specials needs children. Offering encouragement and support, and sharing information and experiences to help each other is the focus of B.A.S.E. “We have a great group. We would love and welcome all families. We are really laid back and are advocates for our kids and want to support one another in a difficult but rewarding journey,” added Posey.

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citizen

Julia Faye Bentley, age 86, of Board Camp, died Friday, January 20, 2017 at her home. She was born on Monday, October 20, 1930 to Ira Walter and Genevra Berthel Castle Blevins in Norphlet, Arkansas.

Julia met and married the love of her life, Clifford Bentley, on February 24, 1951. Clifford was in the Air Force giving him and Julia the means to travel the world and start their family. Julia worked various jobs throughout her life, working as an X-ray technician and a secretary at the VA in Shreveport, Louisiana. While here in Mena, she worked at the Unemployment Office, Highway Department, and was the secretary for the President of Rich Mountain Community College before her retirement. She enjoyed painting, sewing and reading, and was a part of the extension homemakers club. She was an active member of the Board Camp Baptist Church until her health prevented her from attending. Julia taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. Julia loved life and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren.

obituaries

Weekly Publication

news

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February . . . . . . . . .1,. .2017 ...

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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

February 1, 2017

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

es and Brother Brett Lee officiating. Interment followed in the Liberty Cemetery at Board Camp under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Visitation will be Monday, January 23, 2017 from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena.

Pallbearers were Josh Bentley, Matt Cowart, Gene Bentley, Craig Bentley, Douglas Bentley, Neil Rinehart, Andy Marlette, Dan Jenkins, Kelby Chambers, and Austin Nichols.

Honorary Pallbearers were Rick Burt and Matt Edwards.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Board Camp Baptist Church Building Fund, 107 Polk Road 63, Mena, Arkansas 71953.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

BERNICE BALES CAMPBELL On January 30, 2017, Bernice Bales Campbell joined her husband of 66 years, Earl Clarence Campbell, on their eternal journey. Bernice was born in Rocky, Arkansas, on September 18, 1919 to Merton and Amanda Miller Bales.

She was preceded in death by her mother in 1952, her father in 1967, brothers Osborne in 1930 and Clyde in 2015, husband Earl Clarence Campbell in 2005, and daughter Marcia Ann in 1945.

Survivors include daughters, Needra Campbell of Cave Springs, AR, Connie Davis and husband Steve of Mena, AR; son, Gary Campbell and wife Jo Ann of Fort Smith, AR; seven grandchildren, Amanda Allwhite of Lowell, AR, Jason (Dr. Wiltrud Fassbinder) Campbell of Pittsburgh, PA, Angela Farmer and husband Mark of Cave Springs, AR, Alex Campbell and wife Rachel of Woodinville, WA, Patrick Campbell of Maryville, TN, Natalie Darnell and husband Dr. Scott of Little Rock, AR, Andrew Holub and wife Nina of Little Rock, AR; great-grandchildren, Cameron Balusek, Colton Nations, Oliver Campbell, Ada Campbell, Sigrid Campbell, Owen Darnell, Henry Darnell, Benjamin Darnell, and Lilly Bernice Holub.

The depression era was difficult on farm families and Bernice’s was no exception. At age eleven, she had to assume the farm chores such as milking cows and working in the fields when her brother Osborne passed away. This experience made Bernice a determined, hard-working woman.

After finishing Rocky School, Bernice was so determined to finish high school that she walked eight miles into Mena, found a job as a live-in housekeeper and completed Mena High School in three years. During art class she was introduced to art and painting, which lit a spark that reappeared years later. The

dream came alive at age sixty when she began to take art lessons at Rich Mountain Community College and Wenatchee Valley College when vacationing there in the summers.

After retirement, Bernice and Earl drove all 49 states in their motor home and visited Hawaii, Bermuda and Europe. Bernice also learned photography recording their adventures with thousands of slides. Bernice used these slides as inspiration to paint countless art pieces, which still hang in her home.

During their travels and the many summers in Wenatchee, WA, she took junior college classes in art. While back in Mena between trips, Bernice attended Rich Mountain Community College focusing on art classes and with freelance art instructors in the area.

Along the way, some observed that she was very near to completing the requirements for graduation. At age seventy, she graduated with a degree from RMCC, making her the fourth family member to earn a degree. She got her degree after making sure that her three children had received their degrees.

In 2016, some of her children and grandchildren joined forces to publish a book of her paintings. Copies of the 82-page book are being donated to the Mena Public Library and RMCC in memory of Bernice.

Memorials in Bernice’s name can be made to Rocky Cemetery Fund, 477 Polk 93, Mena AR 71953.

Funeral services will be Friday, February 3, 2017, 2:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with Brother Terry Chapman officiating. Interment will follow in the Rocky Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

MILDRED JUANITA COLEMAN MADDOX Mildred Juanita Coleman Maddox passed away January 28, 2017 at her residence. She was born on May 4, 1926 in Port Arthur, Texas to the late Franklin Webster Coleman and the late Bessie Grady Gill Coleman.

Mildred was raised in Port Arthur, Texas and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1944. She was an Air Force wife and lived in several states before moving to Jacksonville, Arkansas where she owned and operated Wilds Mobile Home Park for over 40 years.

For the past 5 years, she has resided at Peachtree Assisted Living in Mena. She thoroughly enjoyed the staff and her fellow residents.

Some of her favorite things to do were playing cards, dominoes, and bingo. She was an avid outdoors person, and loved fishing, hunting, and exploring. She loved taking rides in the mountains. If she thought she was lost,

she liked it even more.

Ever mischievous, she was always the instigator of pranks and practical jokes. She had an infectious laugh. Her favorite sayings were “mercy bucket” and “I love you a bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck.” She traveled to many countries including England, France, Italy, Egypt, Jerusalem, and Guam.

She is survived by son, Grady F. Wilds and wife, Barbara Ehret Wilds, of Mena; 5 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, Webster Franklin Coleman and Bessie Grady Gill; her daughter, E. Louise Mahoney; a son, Nathan K. Wilds; her sister, Jewell Ruth Russell; and a grandson, Kenneth W. Dyar.

The family’s sincere appreciation goes to the staff at Peachtree Assisted Living and her caregivers with Ouachita Regional Hospice for all the love and care that they provided to her.

She was sent for cremation through the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. A private memorial service will be held sometime in the future. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.

RUTH OTTO NEWBERRY

Ruth Otto Newberry, age 89, of Cove, Arkansas passed away Thursday, January 19, 2017 in Hot Springs.

Ruth was born on November 13, 1927 in Clayton, New Mexico to the late William Otto and the late Francis Drake Landt. She was a devoted and caring Registered Nurse in the Health Care System. Ruth enjoyed many things hobbies such as horses, deer hunting, camping, with her family and friends. Also, she had a special love for Dachshunds. She was a member of the Home Extension Club and she enjoyed reading. Most of all she was a very caring and generous person and was always on the go. Ruth loved her family very much. She was a loving and kind mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

She is survived by sons, Stephen Moody and wife Regina of Cove, Arkansas; daughter, Rieca Tift and husband Lew of Truckee, California; grandchildren, Kylie Tift of Truckee, California, Johnathan Moody and wife Danielle of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Adonna McKay and husband Jeremy of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Phillip Cecil and wife Nikki of Joplin, Missouri; great-grandchild, Jozlyn Cecil.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, John W. Moody and Howard Newberry; and grandson, Eric M. Moody Funeral services were Saturday, January 28, 2017, 12:00 (noon) at Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Interment followed in the Buffalo Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral

Home of Mena.

Pallbearers were Kaleb Reeves, Nick Rose, Travis Mos, Alden Maywald, Garrett Murphy, and David Odom.

ONLINE OBITUARY:www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

obituaries

February 1, 2017

Weekly Publication

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LOLA JEAN SINGLETON

Lola Jean Singleton, age 69, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away January 27, 2017 in Mena.

She was born on February 15, 1947 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Glen Miller and Glennie Mays Miller. Jean married Charles Singleton on February 15, 1964 and worked in factory clothing as a product inspector. She enjoyed cooking and sewing for family and friends and you never went to her home and left hungry. Jean always enjoyed going with Charles hunting and fishing together, a hobby they both enjoyed. Most of all she loved all children and had compassion to everyone she met. Her working family at Alfs called her “Momma Jean.” She was a loving and kind wife, sister, aunt and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed.

She is survived by husband, Charles Singleton of Mena, Arkansas; sisters, Gladys Lacey and Phyllis Harrison and husband Robert; brother, Larry Miller and wife Catherine; numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Funeral service was Tuesday, January 31, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Chapel with Brother Scott O’Rear officiating. Interment followed in the Brushy Cemetery in Oden, Arkansas under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Visitation is general.

Pallbearers were Robert Harrison, John Harrison, Calvin Harrison, Eric Elder, Patrick Fair, Ronnie Peters and Odell Peters.

Online obituary: www:beasleywoodfuneral. com

January 6, 2016

Caring for your family since 1928 479-394-1310 611 Janssen Ave. Mena, AR 71953 BeasleyWoodFuneralHome.com

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. .February . . . . . . . . .1,. 2017 ....................................................................................................................

J

Weekly Publication

Acorn Elementary Students of the Month

SUBMITTED

anuary Students of the Month from Acorn Elementary School were chosen having displayed excellent citizenship, exceptional academic effort/improvement and good attendance. Simple Simon’s Pizza, Goss Electronics, and Laark Enterprises provided lunch and games for the students.

Pictured are: Front Row: Gracie Sanchez, 1st grade, daughter of Michael and Cassandra Sanchez; Katie Neugent, 2nd grade, daughter of Jason and Amy Neugent; Adalyn Bohlman, 1st grade, daughter of Scott and Amanda Bohlman; Julia Dan, 1st grade, daughter of Cindy Hensley; Temperance Mabry, Kindergarten, daughter of Mark and Charity Mabry; Nick Long, 2nd grade, grandson of Marietta Ollar; Braydon Dukeshire, Kindergarten, son of John and Misty Dukeshire.

Back Row: Levi Neufeld, 3rd grade, son of Jeff and Jerusha Neufeld; MaryClaire Laing, 4th grade, daughter of Todd and Amy Laing; Chloie Smith, 3rd grade, daughter of Robert and Jessica; Ava Smith-Hawley, 5th grade, daughter of James and Emily Schnell; Sara Pippen, 5th grade, daughter of Quincy and Allison Pippen; Amy May, 4th grade, daughter of Brian and Nancy May.

ACORN SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST

Acorn’s Got Talent T

he Acorn High School Music Department will be hosting their fourth annual Acorn’s Got Talent Show on Thursday night, February 2nd, at 7:00 p.m. in the Acorn Cafeteria. Contestants will be in Middle and High School. Donations will be taken at the door. All proceeds will go to purchase choir microphones and banners for the new music classroom. All are welcome to come out and show your support of the talented students and the Acorn Music Department.

Swap Shop

MONDAY 2/6 Variety cereal, breakfast pizza, yogurt, variety fruit, juice, milk TUESDAY 2/7 Variety cereal, biscuit & sausage w/ cheese, jelly, variety fruit, juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/8 Variety cereal, strawberry parfait, variety fruit, yogurt, juice, milk THURSDAY 2/9 Variety cereal, mini powdered donuts, sausage link, variety fruit, yogurt, juice, milk FRIDAY 2/10 Variety cereal, biscuit & gravy, jelly, variety fruit, yogurt, juice, milk

ACORN SCHOOL’S LUNCH

Buy • Sell • Trade • Give Away Live Broadcasts at 8:05 am & 12:30 pm Monday - Friday

Drop off your Swap Shop items here!

or call in to KENA 104.1 FM

479-394-2800

MONDAY 2/6 K-6TH GRADE: Chili dog, corn dog, peas & carrots, graham crackers, oranges, salad bar, milk. 7TH – 12TH GRADE: Chili dog, corn dog, pizza, peas & carrots, graham crackers, oranges, salad bar, milk TUESDAY 2/7 K-6TH GRADE: Beef Salisbury steak, philly cheese steak sub, brown rice, green beans, wheat roll, pineapple, salad bar, milk. 7TH – 12TH GRADE: Beef Salisbury steak, philly cheese steak sub, pizza, brown rice, green beans, wheat roll, pineapple, salad bar, milk.

WEDNESDAY 2/8 K-6TH GRADE: Pizza, spaghetti w/ meat sauce, breadstick, corn, pears, jell-o, salad bar, milk. 7TH – 12TH GRADE: Chicken alfredo, spaghetti w/ meat sauce, pizza, breadstick, corn, pears, jell-o, salad bar, milk THURSDAY 2/9 K-6TH GRADE: Chicken fried steak, chicken tenders, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, wheat roll, green beans. 7TH – 12TH GRADE: Chicken fried steak, chicken tenders, pizza, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, wheat roll, green beans, mixed fruit, salad bar, milk FRIDAY 2/10 K-6TH GRADE: Fish strips, popcorn chicken, fries, wheat roll, pinto beans, apples salad bar. 7TH – 12TH GRADE: Fish strips, popcorn chicken, pizza, fries, wheat roll, pinto beans, apples salad bar.

Acorn Menus Sponsored by:

Weekly Publication

Mena Middle School’s 2nd Nine Weeks & Semester Honor Roll

MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 2/6 French toast sticks, Cheerio’s, Cocoa Puffs, string cheese, Scooby grahams, diced pears, grape juice, milk TUESDAY 2/7 Omelet, hash brown, toast, Cocoa Puff bar, Trix bar, animal crackers, mixed fruit, fruit blend juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/8 Cinnamon roll, Cheerio’s, Fruit Loops, string cheese, Scooby cinnamon grahams, applesauce, orange juice, milk THURSDAY 2/9 Maple waffles, cherry yogurt, Elfin grahams, raisins, cherry star juice, milk FRIDAY 2/10 Banana muffin, Cheerio’s, Lucky Charms, string cheese, diced peaches, apple juice, milk MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 2/6 Elementary: Chicken noodle soup, chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, broccoli, cucumber/tomato salad, apple, fruit blend juice. Middle School: Chicken noodle soup, chicken sandwich, pepperoni or cheese pizza, chicken fajita, popcorn chicken or ham pizza salad, mixed fruit, fruit juice. High School: Chicken noodle soup, chicken tenders & hot roll, chicken sandwich, hamburger, tortilla line, chicken fajita, pizza line, Grab-N-Go salads & sandwiches.

TUESDAY 2/7 Elementary: Spaghetti w/ meat sauce, turkey sandwich, green beans, red pepper strips, oranges, apple juice. Middle School: Spaghetti w/ meat sauce, srinacho cheese burger, pepperoni or cheese pizza, chicken/ bean burrito, chicken ceasar or ham chef salad, ham & cheese sub, vegetables, fruit, juice. High School: Spaghetti w/ meat sauce, srinacho cheeseburger, cheeseburger, corn dog, tortilla line, chicken bean burrito, pizza line, Grab-N-Go salads & sandwiches.

WEDNESDAY 2/8 Elementary: Baked potato w/ broccoli & cheese, hot roll, chicken sandwich, steamed carrots, zucchini squash, bananas, grape juice.

Middle School: baked potato w/ broccoli & cheese, chicken salsa melt, chicken nuggets, popcorn chicken or ham pizza salad, turkey cheese sandwich, steamed carrots, fresh zucchini, diced pears, grape juice. High School: Baked potato w/ broccoli & cheese, chicken tenders, BBQ cheeseburger, hot dog, tortilla line, bean quesadilla, Grab-N-Go salads & sandwiches.

THURSDAY 2/9 Elementary: Chicken chili crispito, santa fe rice, hot dog, BBQ black beans, celery sticks, applesauce, orange juice. Middle School: Chicken chili crispito, santa fe rice, meatball sub, pepperoni or cheese pizza, ham & cheese sub, beef nachos, chicken seasar or ham chef salad. High School: Chicken chili crispito, santa fe rice, meatball sub, chicken sandwich, hamburger, tortilla line, beef and beans nachos, Grab-N-Go salads & sandwiches.

FRIDAY 2/10 Elementary: Pepperoni pizza, cheeseburger, salad, baby carrots, mandarin oranges, fruit blend juice. Middle School: General Tso chicken w/ broccoli rice, turkey melt, pepperoni or cheese pizza, fish taco, popcorn chicken or ham pizza salad. High School: General Tso chicken w/ broccoli, rice, turkey melt, chicken tenders, cheeseburger, tortilla line, fish taco, Grab-N-Go salads & sandwiches.

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

school

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .February . . . . . . . . 1,. .2017 ........

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2nd NINE WEEKS: All A’S: 6th grade- Beau Bledose, Dusty Davis, Addi Dollar, Evelyn Ellis, Evelyn Farrier, Draven Hair, Keira Hall, Brendon Heath, Emmi Hines, Emily Holloway, Aslynn Jackson, Emily May, Kate McDonald, Daniel McDonald, Alexia Minzel, Taylor Nance, Paige Parnell, Gabrielle Pierce, Trevin Plunkett, Carmen Puckett, Ranessa Ricker, Alexander Rocha, Layla Sessler, Layla Spenser, Emma Threlkeld. 7th grade – Allison Bates, Katie Benefield, Aryana Carter, William Davis, Whitney Dilbert, Grayson Fairless, Jasmine Galloway, Christina Gragg, Sarah Grenier, Alexis Harper, Breeanna Hendrix, Tate Hunter, Emily Liles, Abigail McConnell, Jaiden Milam, Avery Powell, Caitlyn Rode, Austin Rose, Brenna Smith, Kyra Stephens, Annika Thompson, Alexis Williams, Rachel Wilson. 8th grade – Jaci Allen, Brenna Aynes, Madison Blair, Christopher Bollmeyer, Blake Castor, London Copelin, Sam Creason, Ivy Curtis, Andrew Davis, Jesse Ezell, Makori Gabourel, Addison Gibbs, Maddison Gunn, Shylee Head, Jetzai Hernandez, Cori Hilton, Vivie Hooper, Cauy House, Kyleigh Johnson, Ciara Lance, Gracie Lyle, Andrea Maechler, Allie Martin, Cameron McCauley, Levi McIntyre, Zoe McPherson, Max Montgomery, Cylie Moody, Morgan Puckett, Lulu Quebedeaux, Sarah Sharp, Lauren Sikes, Micah Smith, Cameron Terwilliger, Brianna Timms, Emily Wagner. All A’s & B’s: 6th grade- Austin Adair, Emmalee Andrews, Aiden Beck, Cody Bollmeyer, Olivia Butterfield, Gabriel Corcoran, Elizabeth Crawford, Brooklyn Cummings, Colby Davis, Michael Davis, Vivian Denton, Mason Dillard, Haley Fairless, Kaylee Farrier, Jayden Felix, Joshua Ferguson, Patience Ferguson, Daniel Fox, Nevin Furr, Madison Howard, Jasmine James, Damiana Johnson, Emma Johnson, Emily Leonard, Lucas Levering, Joseph Lucas, Madilyn Lyle, Silas McIntyre, Hannah Medcalf, Eliza Mesko, Oliviana Ortiz, Kristian Pellegrino, Harmony Peterson, Helen Peterson, Nathan Philpot, Kendall Posey, Emily Ryan, Bethany Sanders, Abigail Smith, Mackenzie Vincent, Londyn Wagner, Crissie Womack. 7th grade – Cassidy Ashcraft, Jett Baber, Travis Beck, Jaimeson Biard, Amanda Booth, Jake Brotherton, Brendon Brown, Braxton Claborn, Sam Cross, Hunter French, Seth Fruen, Jadelynn Goodner, Gage Gorden, Evan Graves, Danielle Hill, Zachary Medlin, Gage Mortimer, Allison Ogden, Christina Ortiz, Abby Perez, Jordan Roberts, Belle Sherman-Miller, Sarah Simmons, Carleigh Smart, Taylor Thacker, Travis Thrailkill, Vanessa Vue, Madison Wigley, Tanner Williams, Alex, Young. 8th grade- Cooper Anderle, Gabriel Betz, Dawson Breeden, Mason Brotherton, Shane Brown, Damon Clark, Brionna Crane, Caleb Crow, Sam Cude, Devon Davis, Leilani Day, Saleen Dixon, Sam Efird, Marissa Escobar, Logan Fairless, Zoie Goforth, Gaven Hooper, Haley Hooper, Jaxom Hughes, Jack Hunter, Esmerelda Johnson, Connor Latham, Logan Lawrence, Summer Loar, McKenzie Maddox, Dalton McCourtney, Matthew McCravens, David McDonald, Logan Myers, Thaddaeus Nance, Marissa Ortiz, Madison Parnell, Justice Quillin, Bryce Reeves, Allea Rogers, Teagan Rose, Morticai Ryan, Austin Shears, Latonia Siler, Kolbe Smith, James Taylor Jr, Isaiah Thompson, Allie Wright 1ST SEMESTER: All A’S: 6th grade- Beau Bledsoe, Dusty Davis, Addi Dollar, Evelyn Ellis, Evelyn Farrier, Draven Hair, Keira Hall, Brendon Heath, Emmi Hines, Emily Holloway, Aslynn Jackson, Gabriel Kelley, Emily May, Kate McDonald, Daniel McDonald, Hannah Medcalf, Taylor Nance, Paige Parnell, Gabrielle Pierce, Trevin Plunkett, Kendall Posey, Carmen Puckett, Ranessa Ricker, Alexander Rocha, Layla Sessler, Layla Spenser, Emma Threlkeld. 7th grade- Allison Bates, Katie Benefield, William Davis, Whitney Dilbert, Grayson Fairless, Hunter French, Jasmine Galloway, Christina Gragg, Sarah Grenier, Breeanna Hendrix, Tate Hunter, Emily Liles, Abigail McConnell, Zachary Medlin, Jaiden Milam, Gage Mortimer, Allison Ogden, Abbi Perez, Avery Powell, Caitlyn Rode, Austin Rose, Belle Sherman-Miller, Sarah Simmons, Carleigh Smart, Kyra Stephens, Annika Thompson, Vanessa Vue, Alexis Williams, Tanner Williams, Rachel Wilson.

8th grade- Jaci Allen, Cooper Anderle, Brenna Aynes, Madison Blair, Christopher Bollmeyer, Mason Brotherton, Blake Castor, London Copelin, Sam Creason, Sam Cude, Ivy Curtis, Andrew Davis, Saleen Dixon, Marissa Escobar, Makori Gabourel, Maddison Gunn, Shylee Head, Cori Hilton, Haley Hooper, Vivie Hooper, Cauy House, Kyleigh Johnson, Ciara Lance, Logan Lawrence, Summer Loar, Grace Lyle, Andrea Maechler, Allie Martin, Zoe McPherson, Max Montgomery, Cylie Moody, Thaddaeus Nance, Madison Parnell, Morgan Puckett, Allea Rogers, Lauren Sikes, Micah Smith, Cameron Terwilliger, Brianna Timms, Emily Wagner, Allie Wright. All A’s & B’s: 6th grade – Austin Adair, Emmalee Andrews, Aiden Beck, Olivia Butterfield, Saira Castillo, Zoe Combs, Gabriel Corcoran, Elizabeth Crawford, Brooklyn Cummings, Colby Davis, Michael Davis, Mason Dillard, Haley Fairless, Kaylee Farrier, Jayden Felix, Aaron Ferguson, Joshua Ferguson, Patience Ferguson, Daniel Fox, Nevin Furr, Madison Howard, Jasmine James, Daminia Johnson, Emma Johnson, Emily Leonard, Lucas Levering, Madilyn Lyle, Kody Martin, Silas McIntyre, Joseph McLellan, Eliza Mesko, Alexia Minzel, Oliviana Ortiz, Jerrin Parsons, Kristian Pellegrino, Brooklyn, Pennington, Harmony Peterson, Nathan Philpot, Emily Ryan, Bethany Sanders, Ethan Scott, Abigail Smith, Elizabeth Taylor, Alyssabeth Thompson, Mackenzie Vincent, Londyn Wagner, Crissie Womack. 7th grade – Cassidy Ashcraft, Jett Baber, Isabella Balkenhol, Travis Beck, Olivia Betz, Jaimeson Biard, Amanda Booth, Jake Brotherton, Brendon Brown, Aryana Carter, Braxton Claborn, Samuel Cross, Jadelyn Goodner, Gage Gorden, Zackery Grafton, Evan Graves, Alexis Harper, Jayden Harris, Danielle Hill, Timberly Myers, Christina Ortiz, Rachel Pennington, Jordan Roberts, Liberty Sharp, Brenna Smith, Taylor Thacker, Travis Thrailkill, Braeden Turner, Madison Wigley, Alex Young. 8th grade – Gabriel Betz, Damon Clark, Susan Cook, Brionna Crane, Devon Davis, Leilani Day, Sam Efird, Jesse Ezell, Jacob Flemens, Addison Gibbs, Zoie Goforth, Emily Handy, Liam Hastey, Jetzai Hernandez, Gaven Hooper, Jaxom Hughes, Jack Hunter, Esmerelda Johnson, Stephanie Lua, McKenzie Maddox, Cameron McCauley, Matthew McCravens, David McDonald, Levi McIntyre, Logan Myers, Marissa Ortiz, Jessalyn Pierce, LuLu Quebedeaux, Bryce Reeves, Morticai Ryan, Sarah Sharp, Austin Shears, Latonia Siler, Kolbe Smith, Hannah Stockton, Taylor Strother, Isaiah Thompson

January 6, 201

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February 1, 2017

Weekly Publication

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Vandervoort Elementary Partners with Sunny D Book Program SUBMITTED

M

rs. Martin’s 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students participated in the 20162017 Sunny D Book Spree. Sunny D will donate a book for every Sunny D label turned in. Each teacher is limited to 20 books. Mrs. Martin’s students collected 420 Sunny D labels, which were enough to donate 20 books to every teacher at Cossatot River’s Vandervoort Elementary and send four sets to Wickes Elementary. “I am very proud of my students. They really enjoyed challenging themselves to collect as many labels as possible. They were very excited when they found out that they surpassed their goal and were able to share their hard work with the Wickes students. The success of this endeavor would not have been possible without the support of our parents and community members,” said Mrs. Martin.

Vandervoort Elementary Celebrates 100th Day of School V

SUBMITTED

andervoort Preschool and ABC Pre-K celebrated the 100th day of school with a balloon release and also dressed up to be ‘100 years old.’ Vandervoort Elementary Preschool teachers are Sharon Sellers and Cynthia Tena; ABC teachers are Jessica Johnson and Monica Ralls.

COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST

MONDAY 2/6 Dutch waffle, orange wedges, apple juice, milk TUESDAY 2/7 Biscuit w/ gravy, banana, juice, milk WEDNESDAY 2/8 Poptart, apple wedges, orange juice, milk THURSDAY 2/9 Sausage roll, applesauce, juice, milk FRIDAY 2/10 Super donut, raisels, apple juice, milk

COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S LUNCH

MONDAY 2/6 Pizza, tossed salad w/ dressing, peaches, marshmallow treat, milk TUESDAY 2/7 Chicken strips, quick baked potato, green beans, fruit cocktail, roll, milk WEDNESDAY 2/8 Pork chop sandwich, lettuce, tomato, french fries, pears, cookie, milk THURSDAY 2/9 Chicken spaghetti, tossed salad w/ dressing, mandarin oranges, garlic bread, milk FRIDAY 2/10 Hot dog, broccoli w/ cheese, baked beans, pineapple, fruit bar, milk

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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

February 1, 2017

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

WOULD I DIE? From younger days I remember a couple of quotes: “It’s not the dog in the fight; it’s the fight in the dog.” And, from a football coach: “Leave it all on the field.” Each of these point to something very, very important to those of us of the Christian faith. Do we believe enough? Do we love enough? The spiritual conflict that we are in requires that our faith be stronger and our love deeper than perhaps any generation of believers before us. We have read of groups of Christians being lines up and told to deny their faith or die. They die. And it has been this way since the beginning of our faith, since the death of Stephen (Acts 7:59). The question has always been, “are you willing to die for what you believe?”

In I John 3:16 we read: “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us; and we out to lay down our lives for the brethren.” Christianity has been easy in our particular culture, and ease does not breed strong believers.

What would we do when asked to deny or die? What would we do if it should come to us that we must die for “the brethren?” What if it was the “least” of the brethren?

Why would Christ do what He did for us? The Son separated from the Father for the first time in eternity…why? The wage that a sinful life must pay is death, and that debt will be paid…there is absolutely, positively, no way around it. In all of life, we, most of us, find ways to avoid some things, but in this case there is no possibility, none at all of avoiding it. God the Father purposely put our sin debt on His Son! Why? How? The “wage of sin is death.”

Would I die for someone who did not, could not, deserve my effort, my life? Would I? Jesus did!!! And that is the Gospel.

Why? There is something in the Mind of God that we pitiful humans cannot come close to understanding. We were created

by Him for Him, to be “in His likeness…in His image.” We “messed it up.” We can only begin to understand the seriousness of our situation when we begin to accept the truth of our existence; why we were created, why we exist. We are not accidents, and sin is a reality.

The One Who created us also designed a life for us…it was perfect. It was good. But we humans have always thought that we know better. News flash: we don’t! God is still God. God is still Holy. We are still “messing it up.” The Good News: God has not given up on us! He is still in the business of creating a people for Himself! He will not be stopped, not even by the devil himself! But we still have a problem: “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23), and sin has separated us from God! (Isaiah 59:1,2).

Be very careful to note that God does not simply overlook sin. Sin creates a debt that MUST be paid! No way to get out of this one!

But God had a plan from the beginning, a plan to rescue us from ourselves, from our sin debt…a very radical, very costly plan. If there could be just ONE perfect individual, just ONE sinless person, God could put the penalty of sin on that One. And then those who would look upon Him in faith (believing that all “of this was for ME!) he would immediately be rescued from the “wage of sin”. JESUS WAS THAT PERSON! HIS DEATH ON THE CROSS WAS FOR US! Sin died there!

The Mind of God. His mind! A plan beyond comprehension! “My God, My God! Why have you forsaken Me?” HE HAD TO! For in the moment of His death, get this, “He (Jesus) became sin, for us (You and Me), Who knew no sin! That we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (II Cor. 5”21). Incredible? Yes. Does it work? O Yes! Always. I have had two real visions in my life. One of them was on a Sunday morning when I was pondering about the meaning of this verse: “He became sin.” How would it be? But it was, and I saw it…the darkest, blackest “thing” that I have ever seen. And it was for ME, AND FOR YOU! Jesus answered the Question: “Would I die?” Yes. He did. And the debt was paid. Reach out and claim it!

My name is Gene Stacks and I approve of this message!

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Weekly Publication

sports

16

Bearcats Sneak Past Panthers of Lady Eagles Defeat Nashville In

BY EASTON LEONARD Ashdown

BY EASTON LEONARD Triple OT Thriller M T

he Cossatot Lady Eagles hosted Nashville Tuesday, January 24th, at Cossatot River High School. Cossatot pursued revenge, after the Scrapperettes defeated the Lady Eagles earlier this season in the Cossatot Tournament.

Both teams played it close in the first quarter, as Cossatot called a timeout to get a game plan just a few minutes into the game, with the score 10-10. Following the timeout, both teams continued to go back and fourth, but the Lady Eagles were able to take a 16-15 lead into the second quarter. The Lady Eagles started off the second quarter on a 7-2 run, forcing Nashville to call a timeout with 4:04 left in the half. After the timeout, the Scrapperettes ended the second quarter on a 6-3 run, to give Cossatot only a three point lead going into halftime, with the score 26-23.

Asia Munn led Nashville in scoring at halftime with 8 points, while Raegan Richardson led the Lady Eagles with 10 points.

Nashville came out running in the third quarter, the Scrapperettes outscored Cossatot 10-6, to take a one point lead into the final quarter of play. In the fourth quarter, Nashville held a three point lead before the Lady Eagles made an easy bucket to come within one, forcing the Scrapperettes to call a timeout with 1:43 left in the game. Following the timeout, Nashville turned the ball back over to Cossatot and fouled the Lady Eagles, sending them to the free throw line. Raegan Richardson made the first free throw, but missed the second, to tie the game up at 39 apiece with 40 seconds left in the game. The Lady Eagles stole the ball right back from Nashville, as the Scrapperettes fouled Rhyen Martin, sending her to the free throw line. Martin made both free throws, to extend the Lady Eagles’ lead to two, with 32 seconds left in the game. Nashville inbounded the ball and later called a timeout with 27.9 seconds left. Following the timeout, Asia Munn tied the game with a layup. Neither team scored after Munn’s layup, sending the game into overtime, tied at forty-one points apiece.

The Srapperettes won the tip-off of the first overtime and immediately took the lead 43-41, as Asia Munn laid it in. Cossatot was able to tie the game up 43-43 right before Harley Dering was fouled with 1:43 left in the game. Dering missed the first free throw, but drained the second, to put the Lady Eagles up by one. Nashville scored on their next possession to take a 45-44 lead, but the Scrapperettes fouled Cossatot on the next play, sending Raegan Richardson to the line. Richardson missed the first free throw, but made the second, to tie the game at forty-five points apiece with 47 seconds left. Neither Nashville nor Cossatot scored in the remaining 47 seconds, sending the game to a second overtime, tied 45-45.

Jacie Wilkerson started off the second overtime with a steal and easy bucket for Cossatot, giving the Lady Eagles an early 47-45 lead. No points were scored after CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

I would like to express my appreciation for all of my great customers over the years and a special thanks to those who got a chance to stop by and wish me well in my retirement from Washburn’s Furniture. The phone calls, cards, gifts, and visits from familiar faces meant a lot. I also want to thank all of the great people I have worked with at Washburn’s over the years, expecially Gar and Debby Eisele and David and Sue Maddox, for the opportunity to do what I love for 47 years.

David Dutton

ena hosted the Ashdown Panthers Friday night, January 27th, at the Union Bank Center at Mena High School.

The Bearcats started the game on a 13-6 run, before Ashdown called a timeout with 1:47 left in the quarter. After a technical foul on the Panther’s coach and a few shots, Mena went on to take a 15-6 lead into the second quarter. In the second, the Bearcats continued to keep a nice lead on Ashdown, outscoring the Panthers 13-12, to make the score 28-18 at halftime.

Scroggins, number twenty-three, led the Panthers in scoring at halftime with 11 points, while Cross Hughes led Mena with 12.

Ashdown narrowed down the Bearcats’ lead to start the third quarter, as the Panthers opened up a 13-10 run, before calling a timeout with 2:16 left in the quarter.

Following the timeout, Mena went on to finish the quarter on a 6-4 run, to take a nine point, 44-35, lead going into the final quarter of play. The game got interesting in the fourth quarter, as the Panthers outscored Mena 16-11, to make the score 55-51, forcing Mena to call a timeout with 1:23 left in the game. Down by four, Ashdown stole the Bearcats’ inbound pass and scored an easy bucket, to bring Mena’s lead down to two with 31.7 seconds left in the game. The Panthers then fouled Mena with 26 seconds left. Both teams made two free throws apiece on their next possessions, before Austin Wagner scored an easy bucket for the Bearcats, to make the score 61-57 with under fifteen seconds left in the game. Ashdown drained a three-pointer in the final seconds of the game, but fell short, giving Mena another close victory, by a score of 61-60.

Cross Hughes led the Bearcats with 23 points, as Connor Harvey added on 14 points, Blake Seals and Zeb Wilson - 7, Austin Wagner and Carson Cannon – 4, and Darius Sims - 2.

HOLLY SPRINGS REAL ESTATE, LLC 394-4200 1114A Hwy 71S Mena, AR Toll Free: 1-888-394-4200 Keith’s Cell: 479-243-5341

Keith & Sharon Aleshire, Broker/Owners www.hollyspringsrealestate.com

3698 - One of a kind home w/ Million dollar view of mountains! Home looks like a luxury resort in Aspen! Main Home has 3 Large Bedrooms & 3 baths w/ open concept living area upstairs and downstairs. Tile in Kitchen w/ large pantry. Off main area is another Huge Living area w/ 2 sided fireplace and 2 more bedrooms. This will be a great home or Bed & Breakfast! Wrap around enclosed porch, 2 C H/A, Metal roof, hot tub, Irrigation system, shop & 2 car carport. All sits on 15 acres with a pond. More Acreage Avail. MLS16036325 $419,000 3665 - Unique 3 bdr/1 ½ bath home offers a wonderful place to enjoy. The view of the fields from the upstairs is really nice. Sit on your deck and watch the wildlife on your Seven acres and enjoy the beauty of nature. Nice fields on 2 sides of the house with some scattered trees. The tree house is very special with a deck and ample space inside. The shop has electricity and is well situated. MLS16026020 $109,000

3688 - Very Nice 3 bdr/2 bath brick home has back sun porch to view the pretty trees in the back yard. There’s a big work shop, storage buildings and has a built in generator. Close to school and shopping. would make a very good place to call home! MLS16032418 $140,000

Weekly Publication

Ladycats Thumped by Lady Eagles

BY EASTON LEONARD Wilkerson’s layup until Ashlen Gonzalez was fouled with 32 seconds left in the game. Gonzalez Ashdown missed the first free throw, but was able to make the second, to extend Cossatot’s lead to three.

Following the free throw, Kaylea Carver went down the court and drained a three pointer for the T Scrapperettes, to tie the game at 48. On the Lady Eagles’ next possession, Jacie Wilkerson was

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

he Mena Ladycats hosted the Ashdown Lady Panthers Friday night, January 27th, at the Union Bank Center.

Mena started the game off a bit slow, as the Lady Panthers scored the first eleven points unanswered. Reagan Sikes put the Ladycats on the board, with two free throws, to make the score 11-2 with 2:14 left in the first quarter. Following the free throws, Ashdown went on a 6-4 run, to make the score 17-6 at the end of one.

In the second quarter, the Lady Panthers played great defense, holding Mena to only two points. At halftime, Ashdown led the Ladycats by twenty-one, by a score of 29-8.

Number twenty-three led Ashdown in scoring at halftime with 14 points, as Reagan Sikes led the Ladycats with 4 points.

Ashdown continued to play good basketball in the third quarter, as the Lady Panthers outscored Mena 13-9, to take a twenty-five point lead into the final quarter of play, with the score 42-17. The Lady Panthers didn’t let up in the fourth either, putting up eighteen points to Mena’s thirteen points, to make the final score 60-30 in favor of Ashdown.

Reagan Sikes led Mena in scoring with 12 points, as Grace Wagner added on 10 points of her own, Olivia Cannon - 5, Thacker - 2, and Costillo - 1.

sports

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fouled again with just 5.2 seconds left in the game. Wilkerson made both free throws to put Cossatot up by two points. Nashville inbounded the ball and called a timeout with 4 seconds left in the game. After the timeout, the Scrappers hustled down the court, and as time expired the Lady Eagles fouled Kendall Kirchoff, sending her to the free throw line with no time left in the game. Kirchoff drained both free throws, to tie the game up again at 50 points apiece, sending the game to the third overtime.

There was very little action to start the third overtime before Nashville fouled Rhyen Martin, sending her to the free throw line. Martin made both free throws, to give Cossatot a 52-50 lead with 3:53 left in the game. Following the free throws, Nashvilles’ Erica Bretado drained a three pointer, to give the Scrapperettes the lead, 53-52. Nashville fouled Ashlen Gonzalez on the Lady Eagles’ next possession, sending her to the free throw line. Gonzalez made the first free throw, but missed the second, to tie the game up at 53 points apiece. Both teams made consecutive buckets following the free throw, to tie the game up again at 55-55. With 1:15 left in the game, Ashlen Gonzalez was fouled again. Gonzalez missed the first, but drained the second, to give Cossatot a one point lead. Nashville came up empty on their next possession, and fouled the Lady Eagles on the next play, sending Raegan Richardson to the free throw line again. Richardson made both free throws to give Cossatot the lead, 58-55, with under a minute left to play. Both teams made three more free throws each as the game came to an end. When the final buzzer rang, Cossatot walked away winners of the triple overtime thriller, by a score of 61-58.

Raegan Richardson led the Lady Eagles with 18 points, as Jacie Wilkerson added on 14, Ashlen Gonzalez - 13, Rhyen Martin - 12, Harley Dering – 3, and Caylee Stuart - 1.

N O T I C E

January 6, 201

Williams Medical Clinic,

Life & Health Insurance Annuities Medicare Supplements L.L.C. 5 key factsLong about Cancer: TermProstate Care 1. Affects 1 in every 6 men Dr. Robert S. Williams, M.D. Financial 2. Deadlier than breastPlanning cancer

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All Major Insurance Accepted

3. Detectable early stages I’m certified &inlicensed with 4. NOT an old man’s disease 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953 several companies, and 5. Does NOT go away if you avoid 479-243-9024 I can get youGentlemen: the BEST testing.

WePRICE! encourage you to get a Call: PSA blood test.Copelin LaDon CLU, ChFC, CFP®

3015 Hwy. 71 S, Mena • 479-394-5570 AR License #15429 - OK License #40117342

Prices effective January 25, 2017 - February 21, 2017

394-1351 TOLL FREE 1-800-394-1351

Same location for over 45 years FIND US ON FACEBOOK

201 HWY. 71 N., Mena

Mon.-Fri. 7am-6pm, Sat. 8am-4pm

Mena’s ONLY locally owned and operated parts store

New Patients Welcome Please make The Cole Team Bold & larger than the address & phone numbers below it.

Omit the 800 number and the e-mail address and substitute www.FarrellCole.com instead.

479-394-7301

In the web address across 1102 Crestwood Circle the bottom, capitalize the Mena,MAR 71953 in Mena, the R in 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

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. . February . . . . . . . . .1,. .2017 ...................................................................................................................

calendar

Weekly Publication

Thursday, 2/2 • 10:30 a.m. – Gator & Friends will be performing at The Mena Senior Center.

• 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/ Polk County meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 2163383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more information.

• 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open.

• 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - The Sonlighters in Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham.

• 5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th Street Ministries building.

• 5:30 p.m. – Ouachita Regional Hospice’s “Growing Through Grief” support group meets at the Hospice office, 1106 South Mena Street. For more information, call 394-1134.

• 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center.

Call 479-234-2297 for more information.

• 5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous women’s meeting at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy, 71, S., Mena. 479216-4606 or 479-243-0297.

• 6:00 p.m. – Disabled American Veterans & Auxiliary meeting and potluck. Meeting follows dinner, American Legion at Veteran’s Park at Acorn.

• 6:00 p.m. – Christian Singles meets at the Limetree. All singles are welcome.

• 6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel music in the Daisy Room at Janssen Ave Florist.

BEATS

* BEARCATS FOR A CURE RELAY FOR LIFE TEAM CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES FUNDRAISER – Pre-order regular chocolate or white chocolate covered strawberries by February 1st. Delivery is February 10th.

Call or text 479-234-2916 or 479-2345297 to order. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society through Polk County Relay for Life. * • BENEFIT FOR THE WALL THAT HEALS at Limetree Restaurant on Monday, February 6, 2017 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. One percent of all lunch proceeds will help bring The Wall That Heals to Mena.

• 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall.

• 7:00 p.m. – Big Fork RVFD Business Meeting & Training will be at the Fire Station.

• 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297.

• 7:00 p.m. – The Ink RVFD Business Meeting & Training will be at the community building.

• 7:30 p.m. – Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 meets at the Mena Lodge located in the Old Post Office by Janssen Park.

Friday, 2/3 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Road tests are given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room unless the roads are wet.

Written tests are given at 1:00 p.m.

• 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South.

• 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Fiber Arts Group meets at Mena Art Gallery. All types of fiber welcome.

• 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. – Richmond Road Band will play at The American Legion in Acorn. $6 admission.

• 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at 812 Highway 71 South, Mena.

• 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297.

Saturday, 2/4 • 1:00 p.m. – M.S.A.A. Support Group meeting in Room 156 at RMCC. • 2:00 p.m. – Who Lives in a Tree? will be presented at Cossatot River State Park. Meet at the Sandbar Picnic Area.

• 3:30 p.m. – Cossatot River State Park presents Mammal Pursuit. Meet at the Visitor Center Legacy Room.

• 6:00 p.m. – Gospel Singing at the Little Hope Baptist Church near Pine Ridge with dinner following.

• 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn.

• 7:30 p.m. – Owl Moon presented at Cossatot River State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center Legacy Room.

• 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. 479-243-0297 or 479-2164606.

Sunday, 2/5 • 9:00 a.m. – You Too Can Be a Bird Nerd! at Cossatot River State Park. Meet at Cossatot Falls Parking Lot. • 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Feed the Critters at Cossatot River State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center.

• 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297.

• 3:15 p.m. – Niche is presented at Cossatot River State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center Legacy Room.

• 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group

at the First United Methodist Church in Mena.

• 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall.

Monday, 2/6 • 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open.

• 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. – Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church Food Pantry at 149 Polk Road 43, across from Fairgrounds. Non-perishable food, personal care items, and nutritional help. Everyone will be served.

• 6:00 p.m. – Polk County Fair & Rodeo Association meets at the Fairgrounds.

• 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn.

• 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome.

• 6:30 p.m. – Shady Grove RVFD business and training meeting.

• 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297.

• 7:00 p.m. – Potter RVFD meeting at the Fire Station.

• 7:00 p.m. – Acorn RVFD meeting will be at the Fire House.

• 7:00 p.m. – Mena Emblem Club meets at the Elks Lodge.

Tuesday, 2/7 • 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena.

• 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the 9th Street Ministries Building.

• 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. Bring your current project and work with other artists.

• 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters in Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham.

• 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch Library will be open.

• 5:00 p.m. - T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weigh-ins, followed by a meeting.

• 7:00 p.m. – Al-Anon for the families of addicts and alcoholics will meet at the ABC Club.

• 7:00 p.m. – Dallas Valley RVFD meets for training at the Fire House.

• 7:00 p.m. – Acorn Fire & Rescue meets at the Fire Department.

• 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. 479-234-2887 or 479-234-3043.

Wednesday, 2/8 • 11:30 a.m. – The MHS Class of 1959 will meet at The Branding Iron. Spouses and friends welcome. Call 394-6221 for questions.

• 11:30 a.m. – The Polk County Retired Teachers will meet at New China Restaurant.

Paula Bailey, Exec. Director of the Chamber of Commerce will speak. All Polk County retired school employees are encouraged to attend.

• The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Mena at noon.

• 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open.

• 12:00 p.m. – Mena Lioness Lions Club meeting at Limetree. For more information, call 243-3752. Guests welcome.

• 12:00 p.m. – Quality of Life Outreach meeting at Lavilla Restaurant.

• 5:45 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – The Mena First United Methodist Church Kidz will meet.

• 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 at Mena Church of God Hwy 88 East.

• 6:15 p.m. – Dallas Avenue Baptist Church hosts Discovery Kids – Kindergarten Thru 5th Grade; Collide Youth Ministry – 6th Thru 12th Grades; and Adult Bible Study.

• 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome.

• 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297.

• 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Inquiry classes into the Catholic Faith begins in the Parish Hall of St. Agnes Catholic Church at 203 8th St. There is no cost or obligation and anyone interested is invited to attend. Call 394-1017 or 394-5655 for more information.

Weekly Publication

POLK COUNTY BIRTHS AT MENA REGIONAL HEALTH

SYSTEM

Kayla and Christopher Lee, of Hatfield, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on January 23rd.

Alexis Thompson, of Horatio, is the proud mother of a baby girl, born on January 24th.

Natasha and Johnathan Neal, of Hatfield, are the proud parents of a baby boy, born January 25th.

Brianna and Skyler Starr, of Oden, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on January 25th.

Driver Training Topic: Distracted Driving

A nun who works for a local home health care agency was out making her rounds when she ran out of gas. As luck would have it there was a station just down the street. She walked to the station to borrow a can with enough gas to start the car and drive to the station for a fill up.

The attendant regretfully told her that the only can he owned had just been loaned out, but if she would care to wait he was sure it would be back shortly.

Since the nun was on the way to see a patient she decided not to wait and walked back to her car. After looking through her car for something to carry to the station to fill with gas, she spotted a bedpan she was taking to the patient.

Always resourceful, she carried it to the station, filled it with gasoline, and carried it back to her car.

As she was pouring the gas into the tank of her car two men walked by. One of them turned to the other and said: “Now that is what I call faith!”

STATEPOINT

T

his football season, bring family and friends together for a day of festivities.

Score a touchdown at the next game day gathering with simple and affordable party-planning ideas from the discount experts at Dollar General.

Show Team Spirit Encourage game day spirit with your favorite team’s colors and football-inspired tablecloths, disposable paper products, and posters. Get the kids involved by crafting foam fingers, or create garlands to hang around the rooms by cutting footballs out of construction paper and stringing them to green yarn.

Game Day Buffet Make things easy for you and the guests by creating a buffet with iconic game day finger foods like wings, dips, and sandwiches. Additional easy and affordable recipes, including tasty appetizers and desserts, are available online at Dollar General Easy Meals at dollargeneral. com/easymeals.

Keep food and drinks near the viewing area so guests don’t need to miss a moment of the game to refill their cups or plates.

Save Big on Game Day Keep football fans happy by planning ahead. Stock up on favorite game day food at a discount retailer like Dollar General and save on items including drinks, chips, and snacks. For additional savings, create a DG Digital Coupon account at dollargeneral.com/coupons, through the DG mobile app for Android and iPhone, or by texting “JOIN” to 34898. (Standard texting rates may apply.)

Make Clean-Up a Snap Don’t fumble during the fourth quarter. Use disposable items to make cleaning up a breeze.

The added bonus is that items like paper plates and plastic cutlery are affordable and easily found in your team’s colors.

With a few easy preparations, you can be a star player at the next game day party.

January 6, 2016

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MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE OWNER - JASON MILES

*Free Estimates*

“We’ll go the extra mile for you!”

* Custom Homes * Remodels * Window Replacement * Additions * Vinyl Siding

479-216-3072

Friday, February 24, 2017 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

$10 per person

Please RSVP no later than February 10th so we can let the instructor know how many will be in attendance in order to have enough training materials.

Class size is a minimum of 10.

Cossatot Senior Center 7366 Hwy 71 S Wickes, AR 71973 870-385-2373

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

Lori Johnston, CPA, Manager Bambi Sharp Joseph Sanford, CPA Dottie Hobbs, PA Kelli McCurry Tiffany Bayne Stan Johnston

SERVICES

• Bookkeeping • Compilations, Reviews and Contractor’s Licenses • Payroll Services • Individual, Farms, Corporate and Partnership income tax preparation

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citizen

Jennifer and Daniel Roberts, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on January 26th.

Game Day Fun: Football Party Tips

#LOL

family

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• Estate, Trust, Exempt, Organization, Gift and Benefit Plan returns • Tax Planning & Consulting • Estate Booking • QuickBooks Support

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

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February 1, 2017

Weekly Publication

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Clint Bell - Protecting and Shaping Lives

BY LOGAN MCCOURTNEY • l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com

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aising boys up to be men of honor, integrity, and strength can be tough. In fact, it seems that it takes a whole village to raise kids the right way. The family structure is paramount in developing kids for their adult years. This idea is perfectly summed up in Clint Bell, School Resource Officer [SRO] for Cossatot River School District. If each young man grows up to be the man that Clint is, well, everything will be just fine.

Clint’s journey to his current position was quite the journey. It is almost certain that there may not be another police officer that has taken the path that Clint has. He grew up in South Polk County where he graduated from Van Cove in 1995. Farm life was the norm for Clint; his dad, Herschel, was in the poultry business working as a night shift manager. “When I graduated from high school, dad built his first chicken house,” recalls Clint. He enjoyed agriculture and the poultry industry so much that upon graduation he went to the University of Arkansas and earned his Bachelor’s in Poultry Science. Clint wasn’t alone though. His wife, Tanya, studied Poultry Science as well at UofA. “Tanya actually went to school for education, but soon after arriving at school my advisor had her talked into Poultry Science,” says Clint with a grin. After graduation, both Clint and Tanya went to work in the poultry industry, both of them receiving jobs at OK Farms in Heavner. Clint served as Hatchery Supervisor, managing the day to day operations while Tanya worked in the plant. From there, they moved back to Polk County with their 2 year old daughter Hannah so that they could be close to family. Family is so important to Clint that he made the commute from Cove to Broken Bow each day to work for Tyson. “I wanted us to be close to our family and we wanted Tanya to be able to stay home with Hannah. It made it worth it because after Justin and Gabe were born we were already home,” says Clint.

In 2007, Clint went through the part time reserve class at RMCC before becoming a part time deputy for the Grannis Police Department. “That is when the law enforcement thing really started grabbing ahold of me,” recalls Clint. During this time, Clint was riding around with his brother-in-law Bo Hayes, who currently serves as an Arkansas State Trooper.

Clint explains, “I loved riding around with Bo. I felt like what he was doing was important. He was trying to help protect people and make our community safer.” He served part time with Grannis until 2011 when he became a reserve with the County. Through this whole time, Clint was still working on the chicken farm. “Most reserves have a restricted schedule because of their other job, but if they ever needed me I could step away from the farm and come work,” explains Clint. Mike Godfrey, the Sheriff at the time, approached Clint about becoming the SRO for CRSD. “He told me they wanted somebody from the area, somebody that knew the community and the families. Mike said he thought I was a good fit. I always thought, ‘why me?’,” explains Clint. In August of 2013 the school hired him on as the SRO and over the next couple of years Clint went through extensive training to become a certified SRO through the state of Arkansas.

As a SRO there are challenging days just like in any other profession. It is a difficult balance to strike trying to create a safe environment, while also caring for the students. “I love these kids. They are the reason I keep coming back to work everyday. I consider some of them friends. They have their hard days; days that I have to discipline a lot, but I still love them,” says Clint. His care for the students at CRSD is evident to anyone watching and his desire to see them do well in life and school is impactful. It goes without question that Clint is influencing lives in the school, even if it isn’t how most people expect it. “I like to think that I’m friends with most of the students here, if I wasn’t, I would be disappointed,” says Clint. His job as a SRO is more than just writing citations, it is about correcting mistakes and shaping futures. Clint explains, “Every now and then I really get to help kids out. Each time I have to write a citation, I view it as trying to help them out. I feel like I am a part of helping prepare them for adulthood. I don’t just write it because I have to, I genuinely hope that it can help change their life.”

Clint and Tanya, who now teaches at Wickes Elementary, loves the community they are in. “In my opinion, there isn’t a better place for Hannah, Justin, and Gabe to grow up.

Our family is here, and the families in the schools are great,” says Clint. It is obvious that CRSD is fortunate to have someone like Clint serving alongside them as they try to help students succeed. Clint’s desire to see students flourish is unique. It is clear that families are blessed knowing that when they send their kids off to school there is somebody that is protecting them and caring for them. Clint Bell is an example of what it means to care, an example that would be worth following.

National Family Caregiver Support Program

Caregiver Support Meeting • February 2, 2017 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 “Caring for Someone Who is at the End of Life” presented by Kassie Strother, PTA, Mena Manor. For information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373.

Hope to see you there. Refreshments will be served. Win a door prize!

The Cossatot Senior Center

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

Weekly Publication

House Passes Tax Reform and Relief Act CONTRIBUTED BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOHN MADDOX

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at the capitol

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he House began this week by passing an income tax reduction for Arkansans making less than $21,000 a year. In a vote of 90-2, with 5 members voting present, the House passed HB1159 also known the Tax Reform and Relief Act of 2017.

The legislation passed this week creates a legislative task force to explore future tax reform.The task force is required to complete a report by September 1, 2018.The report will include proposals for tax cuts and job growth.

The House passed two other tax-related measures this week. HB1157 makes clear that Arkansans have only one homestead property tax credit per year.

And HB1156 requires that Arkansas corporate income tax returns be filed by April 15 beginning this year.

In the third week of the session, the House also passed legislation which makes clear that an individual can be charged with harassment for communication on an electronic device including communication through social media.

The House passed HB1032, the Arkansas Unborn Child Protection from Dismemberment Abortion Act. The vote for this bill was 78-10 with 2 members voting present.

The legislation prohibits the procedure known as dilation and evacuation (D&E).The legislation makes exceptions if the life and health of the mother is at risk.

Other bills heading to the Senate include HB1147 and HB11185.

HB1147 states the driver’s license of military member will not expire while the individual is living out of state if he or she applies for an extension of the expiration date.

HB1185 allows for a death certificate to be issued for a stillbirth occurring after 12 weeks gestation. Currently, one can only be issued after 20 weeks gestation or if the fetus weighs 350 grams or more.This bill does not require a certificate be issued, but rather upon the request of the parents.

In the upcoming week, we will be addressing legislation regarding funding for higher education and tax breaks for retired military members.

You can watch all House committee meetings held in the Capitol and all House floor proceedings on our website www.arkansashouse.org.

CONTRIBUTED BY JEFF OLSON • olsonjd@arkansas.net

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January 6, 2016

ill we have six more weeks of Winter or an early Spring? Now that is a good question, and such an important one that leaving it in just anybody’s hands is a foolish thing. Before Doppler Radar, before satellites, before radar, and yes, even before our weatherman, there was (and still is).... Groundhog Day. Chuckle as we may, this American tradition has been around for a very long time and I think it deserves some time and ink.

For some of us, especially those in the younger generations, our knowledge of Groundhog Day may be limited to the 1993 movie with Bill Murray, or maybe just what we see on the news on Groundhog Day. This unique day can be counted among the many other customs which have come to America through immigrants. Most of us are aware of its legend through weather lore that holds that if a groundhog emerges from his burrow on this day and sees his shadow, he will be frightened back into his home, and Winter will last for six more weeks. However, if it’s an overcast day, and he doesn’t see his shadow, he takes it as a sign of Spring and stays above ground.

Hence, Spring will come early.

So, how does February 2 fit into this legend and custom? This day falls at about the midpoint between the Winter solstice and Spring equinox. Some ancient cultures observed rituals that signified the mid-season, and were watchful for the reappearance of hibernating animals as a natural sign that Winter was coming to an end.

Early Christians observed February 2 as Candlemas, the day on which priests blessed candles needed for the Winter and distributed them to the faithful. According to an old English song: If Candlemas be fair and bright, Come, Winter, have another flight; If Candlemas brings clouds and rain, Go Winter, and come not again. According to an old Scotch couplet: If Candlemas Day is bright and clear, There’ll be twa (two) Winters in the year. Another variation of the Scottish rhyme: If Candlemas day be dry and fair, The half o’ winter to come and mair, If Candlemas day be wet and foul, The half of Winter’s gone at Yule. The Germans recited: For as the sun shines on Candlemas Day, So far will the snow swirl until the May. Many of Pennsylvania’s early settlers came from Germany, and they brought this legend with them to America. However, here they found groundhogs instead of badgers, so the former became their messenger. The first official trek to Gobbler’s Corner was made 130 years ago this week, February 2, 1887, thus beginning the annual celebration of Groundhog Day in the nearby town of Punxsutawney. Then, and every year since, a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil is pulled from his heated burrow so he can look for his shadow and predict the weather. While this little fellow is the nation’s most famous forecaster, he is certainly not the only rodent meteorologist in the business. Birmingham Bill, Staten Island Chuck, General Beauregard Lee (near Atlanta), and Shubenacadie Sam in Canada also participate. While some say these guys are imposters, they nevertheless deserve at least honorable mention for their efforts. Of course, none can compare to the legendary Punxsutawney Phil. Stay tuned!

citizen

January 6, 2016

We’re always on at MyPulseNew.com

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Moments from America’s History: Phil’s Forecast

history

Weekly Publication

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police

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February 1, 2017

Weekly Publication

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

Mena Police Department January 22, 2017 Report was taken of someone trying to pass a counterfeit $10.00 bill at a local farm store. Case is pending.

Wesley Harold Henry, Jr., 32 of Mena was charged with theft of property (shoplifting) after officers were called to a local retail store.

January 23, 2017 Jimmy Lee Wright, 31, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding body attachment warrant for failure to pay child support.

Report was taken of two counterfeit $20.00 bills being received at a local convenience store. Case is pending.

January 24, 2017 Jason Dee Rosson, 31, of Mena was arrested on outstanding warrants from the Mena Police Department and the Polk County Sheriff’s office.

Jeremiah Brown, 35, of Mena was charged with possession of an instrument of crime.

A Mena woman reported that a couple who had been staying at her house had stolen several items when they left.

Case is pending.

January 25, 2018 Ernest Collier, 73, of Muse, Oklahoma was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear.

A local man reported that while he was away from his residence someone kicked in the front door of the residence. Case pending.

January 26, 2017 A Polk County man advised that someone unknown to him had slapped him across his face. Case pending.

January 27, 2017 Report was made of the destruction of two orange hazard cones belonging to the Mena Water Department.

January 28, 2017 Blake Austin Strother, 19, of Mena was charged with DWI and possession of alcohol by a minor. The arrest followed

officers responding to an incident on the parking lot of a local retail store.

Justin Jordan Hogan, 20, of Mena was charged with possession of alcohol by a minor.

Polk County Sheriff’s Department January 23, 2017 Report from walk-in complainant of the theft of a firearm, valued at $100.00.

Investigation continues.

Report of an unauthorized person at a residence on Polk 59 in the Board Camp community led to the arrest of Bryan J. Strother, 25, of Mena, on Charges of Violation of a Protection Order, Theft of a Firearm, Aggravated Assault and Fleeing.

Arrested was Brittany L. Foster, 27, of Broken Bow, OK, on a Warrant for Probation Violation.

January 24, 2017 Traffic stop on Highway 375 West near Mena led to the arrest of Matthew W. Hackworth, 32, of Mena, on a Montgomery County Warrant.

Arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department was Joshua D. Schell, 26, of Mena, on a Warrant for Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance, Disorderly Conduct and Assault 3rd Degree.

January 25, 2017 Report of suspicious behavior led to a 15-year-old male being issued a Juvenile Citation for Public Intoxication.The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian.

Report of an unauthorized person on property on Highway 8 West in the Shady Grove community. Deputies responded.

Subject was transported from the area.

Report from complainant on Polk 48 near Potter of a domestic disturbance.

Deputies responded. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration.

Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was James E. Ward, 37, of Richmond, MO, on a Charge of Obstructing Governmental Operations.

Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Bryan K. Nelson, 39, of Springdale, on a Charge of Obstructing Governmental Operations.

January 26, 2017 Report from complainant on Polk 51 near Mena of the theft of a firearm, valued at $225.00. Investigation continues.

Arrested were Marsha D. Denton, 32, and James M. Wright, 37, both of Mena, each on a Warrant for Forgery.

Arrested was Ashley N. Cain, 22, of Smithville, OK, on a Warrant for Probation Violation.

Report from complainant on Hillcrest Lane near Mena of the theft of medication. Investigation continues.

January 27, 2017 Arrested was Makala A. Huffman, 25, of Mena, on a Warrant for DWI. Arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department was Guy F. Jaycox, 33, of Grannis, on a Charge of Public Intoxication.

January 28, 2017 Report from complainant on Polk 20 near Cove of being harassed by an unknown individual. Investigation continues.

Report from complainant on Polk 41 near Potter of the break-in to a storage building. Investigation continues.

Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Nina D. Baker, 48, of Vandervoort, on Charges of DWI, No Signal and No Seatbelt.

January 29, 2017 Report from Mena Regional Health System of a gun shot victim. Deputies responded. Investigation continues.

Traffic stop on Highway 71 South in Mena led to the arrest of Lane M. Keene, 18, and Shawn R. Romele, 18, both of Mena, each on a Charge of Possession of Intoxicating Liquor by a Minor. Report from complainant on Highway 4 near Cove of an unauthorized person on their property. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 36 near Hatfield of the theft of prescription medication. Investigation continues.

Report of goats running loose on Dover Street in Hatfield. Owners were advised to keep animals contained.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates, with 3 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

February 1, 2017

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.

A New Year’s Resolution you will want to keep… Earn your GED or improve your employability skills. Day and Night Classes Available. Free Classes – Free Books.

GED Test is only $16.00. Classes in Mena, Mt. Ida, and Waldron. Call 479-394-7622 ext. 2309 for more information. Ad paid for with funds from the Department of Career Education. UA Rich Mountain is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution. 2/15 Books ‘N’ Stuf 704 Mena Street. Mena Arkansas. Just arrived Foxfire Books, Zane Grey & Agatha Christie hardbacks, and art books. Come see. 2/1 AmeriChemm is seeking an intelligent, friendly individual 23+ years of age for a full-time position operating a delivery truck for our company. You will be home all nights/ weekends barring emergency deliveries. Competitive salary and benefits package included baked on level of experience. You MUST have: 2+ years of experience, clean driving record, CDL (Class C), HAZMAT (or be able to obtain a timely manner), must be able to pass DOT physical and drug screening, resume is required. To inquire about this position please contact Marvin Brewer at 479-3941692 and leave a message. Applications and resumes can be turned in at Arkansas Employment Security Division (at Northside shopping center 601 C Hwy 71 North) Thank you for your consideration. 2/8

PUBLIC NOTICE: The following items from Polk County will be sold to the highest bidder at a public auction held at the Polk County Fairgrounds on February 4, 2017 starting at 10:00 AM. Road Department items: 1997 Chevy C7500 single axle dump truck, 2005 Chevy 4X4 pickup, 250 gal. oil tank, assorted used plastic culverts, shop fan, 2 sets brand new LT 245/75R17 tires, several used trucks and tractor tires, several 4X8 sheets of insulation boards, 8 yard dump truck bed w/ cylinder, oxygen bottles, 4000 watt generator (missing bard), industrial limb cutter, several large steel pope cut-offs, and other misc.

Sheriff’s Department items: 2004 Chevy Impala, 2005 Ford Expedition, 2010 Dodge Charger. Seized and forfeited: 1991 Toyota 4X4, 2- 1994 Chevy Chamaros. 2/1 WANTED: Housekeeper. Must be honest and reliable with references. No drugs/no alcohol. Call 1-318-2940020. 2/1 Clean and comfortable housing since 1969, J. Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479-216-3085 TFN Yard Mowing, weed eating, bush hogging, handyman services, power washing, garden plowing and tilling. Have tractor with implements for larger jobs. Bill Duff. Call 479216-5204. 2/8

Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting, home repair, desks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068. 2/15

Valentine’s Dance. Joe’s Place, Zafra, OK. Saturday, February 11, 2017 9pm-1am. Southern Rhythm Band with Richie Owens. $7.00 person. $12.00 couple. 2/1

House Cleaning and more. Call Winnie Cotter at 2343418. 2/15

WANTED: Upholsterer to recover outdoor and indoor furniture. Call 1-318-294-0020. 2/1

scmobiledogwash.com- Dog grooming, Hand dry, nails trimmed, ears cleaned, brushing.

Deanna Boyd 479-234-1866. I will come to you!

Like Facebook. 2/22

classifieds

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Help Wanted: The Oaks at Mena is hiring for a Full-Time LPN. Please apply in person between 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. TFN WANTED: Handyman. Must have carpentry, painting and plumbing skills. Must be reliable. No drugs/no alcohol.

Call 1-318-294-0020. 2/1 J&N Dozer- Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dump Truck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling, Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer operator Randy Egger, over 30 years’ experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357 TFN Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas seeks qualified applicants for a full-time Nursing Instructor/Clinical Coordinator for the ARNEC Nursing Program. For job description, requirements and full job posting please visit the Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas website at www.cccua.com or the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain website at www. rmcc.com and click on the Employment Opportunities link.

Primary permanent office location will be at the college campus closest to the educator’s home. Deadline to submit an application is Friday, February 17, 2017 at 4:30 pm, or until position is filled. EEO/ADA/AA Employer. 2/1

January 6, 2016

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK Buttercup is a beautiful puppy! Creamy golden fur and big brown eyes make her totally irresistible! At only 19 weeks old and 14 pounds this Dachshund X Mountain Cur puppy is brand new at the shelter. Buttercup is good with other dogs too! Been waiting for a puppy? Pick Buttercup! Spayed, shots, uses dog door.

Give us a call. You’ll be glad you did!

OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (479) 394-5682 • WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org • HSO is a NO KILL Shelter. HSO is not affiliated with any other local, state or national animal rescue organization. HSO is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Please consult your tax advisor to see if your donation is tax deductible.

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1997Ram 3500

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

February 1, 2017

2002Silverado 2004Avalanche X-Cab Z71

Dually Diesel

4x4

Manual

Transmission

5.9 Cummins

Gentry Price:

U9855A

$5,900 2001Ford

P6748B

$4,995 2009Mini

60K Miles

$4,995 2008Chevy Silverado Gentry Price:

$9,995 $4,800 2006Jeep 2012Ford Fusion Liberty Limited

U9248A

Cooper

U9784A

P6765A

Gentry Price:

Gentry Price:

S6657B

$5,800 2010Chevy

Cobalt 2LT

Explorer Sport

89K Miles

Gentry Price:

Gentry Price:

U9707B

U9807A Gentry Price:

$8,795

89K Miles

Gentry Price:

$5,985

entry hevrolet

Gentry Price:

U9831B

$9,650

www.GentryChevyInc.com

1027 Hwy 70 East De Queen, AR 1-800-649-9929