Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
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January 13, 2021
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First Baby of the New Year
INSIDE:
County overcomes 2020 hurdles By Jeri Pearson
Covid 19 Patient Released
Page 10
Scholarship Recipients
Ancient Art
Page 11
Page 19
It’s a GIRL! Mena Regional Health System welcomes the first baby of 2021! Proud parents are Natasha Ward and Charles Cogburn of Glenwood, Arkansas. Baby Lyla Lashay Kay Cogburn was born on January 5th at 8:09AM weighing 8 pounds 7 ounces and measuring 19 inches at the time of her birth. Baby Lyla was delivered by Dr. Rocha. Pictured from left are Rick Billingsley CNO, Minta Milam RN, Chole Waggoner, Charles Cogburn, Natasha Ward, baby Lyla, Amber Taylor RN and Leah Cannon RN with the New Year Baby Welcome Basket, an MRHS tradition. Thank-you to local business who donated items to help welcome the New Year Baby: Allbaugh’s Florist, Gabriel Clothing Co., Janssen Avenue Florist, K&K Cleaners, Mena Regional Auxiliary, Nordyke Photography, Papa’s Mexican Cafe, Union Bank, The Fair Lady and Washburn’s.
Challenges were recognized at every level during 2020 and county government was not immune to the symptoms brought on by COVID19 and additional factors, such as extreme rainfall. However, County Judge Brandon Ellison said the county was prepared for an unprecedented year and has made great strides despite the additional challenges. “The obvious challenge is COVID,” Ellison said. “The treatment in place today is different than in March; we know so much more about it. We were told to be freaked out. We were scared of the unknown.” Ellison said the manner in which the county responded to the pandemic went tremendously well and resulted in the courthouse being able to remain open and no cases of the virus reported at the jail. “It is the people’s house and we didn’t want to close it. So, we half staffed and alternated people.” Ellison said all statistics he was given from officials were dire. “I was told that 300 people in Polk County were going to die, and 20% of population was going to get it. Economically, I was told, everySee COUNTY page 2
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Continued from page 1 thing would stop, we would shrivel lead responsibly. up and the revenue would fall. I was “We have to keep going, I know told we would basically be circling that,” he said. “You can’t stop life or the drain. Of course, months went living. I want to protect the most on and that didn’t happen.” vulnerable.” Ellison said business slowly reEllison noted the service of the seturned to normal and protocols nior centers during the pandemic. were changed. “I’m proud of the senior cen“So now, we have tried to nor- ters and how they delivered food malize everything we can,” he said. to those who wanted to stay home “I have to realize that people die - and I do mean wanted to. We of things - a lot of different things. shouldn’t make anyone do anyI can’t trust anything I read any thing. We can make suggestions, more.” but shouldn’t force.” “When I look at the death count In addition to the COVID refor all reasons and it is less in sponse, Ellison said rainfall has 2020 than it was in 2019, I don’t been the biggest challenge. know what it tells me. Are they “I believe we have had 100 inches miss-marking deaths or are we of rain this year; the average is 52 having less accidents. I don’t know inches. Last year, there was 80 inchwhat those statistics tell us; is it less es,” he explained, noting that flash cancer or less flu?” flooding can damage roads, bridgEllison said despite questions re- es, culverts and other structures the maining regarding COVID statis- county is responsible for maintaintics, he feels it imperative to act and ing.
“It has just shot our wheels completely off. But, even with all that happening, our roads are not horrible, but it has killed our projects. I’ve been moving forward every year and this year we haven’t been able to move forward much.” In a flooding event Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 some places in Polk County
recorded 1 to 13 inches of rain. The courthouse flooded and several water rescues occurred. “With that being said, we have been productive,” Ellison said. “I’ve been busier this year and I’ve worked more this year than any year, other than maybe the first year I was in office.”
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THE POLK COUNTY
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January 13, 2021
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Your Pulse! I wonder if anyone really knows how steadfast their beliefs and opinions are until they are tested. It might be a faith-based conviction, or an ideal pertaining to relationships. It might even be a political or social judgement. This past week I faced such a test on my editorial stance on reporting pertaining to the pandemic. In the Nov. 25, 2020 issue, I said: “As a community news organization, many readers may wonder why we do not chase after news stories that involve positive COVID cases or even deaths … Our priority is to inform community members with information based in fact, and when possible, respect. ...Because the pandemic is so widely reported on and documented at the state level, with data available to the public on a daily basis, we find our reporting can be of more value to share information that is not widely available. ...If you desire to know the data and statistics surrounding COVID19, we encourage you to follow the Arkansas Department of Health. You can find information at https://www. healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/ topics/novel-coronavirus, or listen to daily updates at 104.1 KENA. ...As we continue to navigate through this unorthodox time, know that we remain committed to bringing you information that assists with being an involved and informed community member.” This past week I’ve personally witnessed what can only be described as absolute heartbreak as loved ones said a painful and extremely sorrowful goodbye to a matriarch who will always be cherished and remembered by those dear ones who are mourning for her. I watched as expressions of love through tearful phone calls among family were exchanged. I saw a close family inform one another of loss and give support that only family can provide. They could have chosen to cling to anger as their loved one went to the hospital or as she was sent to ICU. I feel they have a right to be angry with the person who knowingly exposed
their loved one to the virus that is wreaking havoc on our world. But as the stages of grief have begun, I was amazed at how quickly they let go of that anger and shifted to cherishing one another. No news article could have prepared the family. No COVID19 update in the weekly paper could have improved the situation. No social media post would have lessened the burden. What did help was the incredible nurse who was critical in the lines of communication as goodbyes and I love yous were said with such emotional intensity that the phrases would go with our loved one throughout eternity. It was healthcare workers who shined brightly in a family’s dark hour. Not the media. Not FOX or CNN. Not the Washington Post, Arkansas Democrat Gazette or the Pulse. Not Facebook, Twitter or Parler. As we continue to encounter circumstances in our life which challenge our opinions and beliefs, I hope that we find our convictions are rooted in respect, courage, and love. I hope that we have the tenacity to alter our ideas when it becomes appropriate to do so. In the front page story regarding the County’s challenges to 2020, County Judge Brandon Ellison describes how his understanding of information has shifted during the pandemic. To which I applaud him. The ability to acknowledge a change in understanding and express in honesty that information is unknown or misunderstood is a hallmark trait in a leader. As for my belief that COVID19 updates are not appropriate for a weekly community paper, I maintain my position, even after a heart wrenching week. Please continue to stay informed and act accordingly - based on your opinions and values. I trust that only furthers the kindness, love, and respect that are hallmarks of our community. -Your community partner and Pulse Editor - Jeri
Editorial 3
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January 13, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives
Public participation is an into three categories. essential part of our democ(A) Regular Agenda–bills to racy. In preparation for the be considered by the commitupcoming session, House and tee on the date of the agenda. Senate leadership have agreed (B) Consent Agenda–bills to a few rules so Arkansans on the committee agenda for can participate in an enviwhich there is no known opronment that is as safe and position or expected public healthy as possible. testimony and that may be With limited exceptions, a John Maddox taken up at any time by the mask or other cloth face covcommittee. ering will be required to enter com(C) Deferred Bills–bills for which mittee rooms and public comment committee consideration has been holding rooms. All individuals will be deferred either for failure of the sponsubmitted to a temperature check and sor to appear or at the request of the onsite health screening at the entrance sponsor. to either the State Capitol Building or Committee agendas will be posted the adjacent MAC Building. at least eighteen (18) hours prior to We have provided nearby space for the committee meeting. committee rooms for members of the There is limited public seating in the public to watch the live stream while House chamber. Our chamber prothey wait for their turn to testify for ceedings and every committee is live or against a bill. These rooms will pro- streamed and archived on our website vide ample space for social distancing. www.arkansashouse.org. Staff will direct you to sign up sheets On Monday, January 11, members and they will be available at www.ark- will be sworn into office and officially leg.state.ar.us . elect the Speaker for the 93rd General In an effort to prevent crowds in Assembly. committee rooms, the rules call for On Tuesday, January 12, the Goverrevised committee agendas. These nor will give his State of the State adare designed to let the public know dress in the House Chamber. what bills will be heard on a given day. We will continue to update you Committee agendas will be divided during the session.
Contact Your Legislators! John Maddox
john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060
Larry Teague
THE POLK COUNTY
Larry.Teague@senate. ar.gov P.O. Box 903, Nashville, 71852 870-845-5303
John Boozman
1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553
Bruce Westerman
101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887
From the
State Senate
When the Arkansas legisquarantine or have concerns lature convenes the 2021 regabout appearing in person ular session, the first major at the Capitol. challenge on the agenda will The legislature will adbe ensuring that the public dress a series of familiar iscan still safely participate in sues, along with some new the democratic process. ones. Visitors to the Capitol must Funding public schools is wear a face mask, and they Larry Teague one of the first duties that will be given a temperature lawmakers will take care of, check to make sure they are not run- because of the state’s Constitutional ning a fever. obligation to adequately and equiThere will be limited seating for vis- tably provide an education to every itors, because of Health Department child in Arkansas. Education funding regulations that restrict the number of accounts for more than half of the Arpeople who can safely sit in the public kansas general revenue budget. galleries. Other vital state services include Legislative leaders were finalizing operating prisons and re-entry prodetails of a safety plan up until the be- grams for inmates returning to sociginning of the session, which this year ety. Juvenile justice, foster care and will convene at noon on January 11. adoption services are run by the state. They were working with the Secretary The state pays for health care, treatof State, who is the constitutional of- ment of drug and alcohol abuse, resificer who is in charge of maintaining dential care for people with developthe Capitol and its grounds. mental disabilities and nursing home Several changes were made in how care. legislative committees will function Apart from setting budgets and during the pandemic. spending levels for state agencies, Legislative committees review all there will be bills affecting the rights proposed legislation before they are of taxpayers, gun owners, businesses voted on during full sessions of the and voters. Senate and House. It is during comRevenue Report mittee meetings that the public can The state revenue report for Decemcomment on bills. ber shows that the Arkansas economy Committee rooms in the Capitol continues to recover from the impact have been connected with video tech- of the pandemic. nology, so that when a committee is For the first six months of Fiscal in session the public can keep up with Year 2021, total general revenue was the action from a nearby room. If up $320.7 million over the same pemembers of the public want to voice riod of the previous year. That is a 9.5 opinions on a bill, they will be allowed percent increase. to do so, but there will be rules about The revenue report is an accurate where they must wait until it is their gauge of economic activity in Arkanturn to speak. sas, because tax rates have not gone Senators will consider adoption of up. In fact, the top state income tax new rules for the 2021 session that rate just went down from 6.6 to 5.9 would allow legislators to participate percent on January 1, thanks to a tax remotely, in the event they are under cut written into Act 182 of 2019.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Obituaries 5
January 13, 2021
Vera Sue Green
Vera Sue Green, age 55, of Mena, died Sunday, January 3, 2021 at her home. She was born on Thursday, November 4, 1965 to Donald Ray parker and Charlotte Sue Turner in Taft, California. Vera was a Christian woman who attended Baker Rock Church in Wickes. She had a wonderful sense of humor and felt that the love of her family was all that truly mattered. Vera had a big heart, and loved all of her family and friends immensely. She was a loving person, always willing to give someone a second chance. Vera liked to sew, do different arts and crafts, and go shooting with her son, Randy. She was a fan of 80’s Heavy Metal bands like Poison. She loved the water whether it be lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Vera was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, David Parker and Donny Parker; and special father, Alvin Jones. Vera is survived by two sons and daughter in law, Randy and Jill Dill of Mena, and Bricen Green of Mena; one daughter, Dixie Jones of Mena; five grandchildren, Randy Dill, Duncan Dill, Camara Dill and Robbie and Nevaeh; special mother and extended family, Shirley Parker of Mena; special sisters, Chandra Ponce and Linda Santiago both of De Queen; special
brother, Roger Hornbeck of Fresno, California; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. No services are planned at this time. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.
Bill Davis
Bill Davis, 79 years old, passed from this life on December 23rd in Arizona. He was born December 15, 1942 to Haskell and Delma Davis. He was married to Jennie Vincent for 39 years. He is survived by his wife Jennie, 3 daughters; Bonnie Gee, Gwen Lindy, and Kathlyn Jones, 3 stepdaughters; Cheryl Allrid, Cindy Peterson, and Lina Ojeda, brothers; Gene Davis of Nex Mexico, Frankie Davis of Cherry Hill, sisters; Zella Chrisman of Waldron, and Dalena Love of Mena, 9 grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and 4 brothers; Brent Davis, Richard Davis, Jerry Davis, and beloved Hughie Davis. Funeral services will be held at a later date.
James Fletcher McCool, Jr.
James Fletcher McCool, Jr., age 80, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, January 9, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born January 27, 1940 in Augusta, California to the late James F. McCool, Sr. and Hilda Hee Foy McCool. He was united in marriage to Barbara Boblitt. James was a lifelong member of CMA serving as the State Representative, he served as prison minister, a Mason and was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church in
Mena. He worked for NASA after serving in the United States Coast Guard in both Hawaii and Houston, Texas. Later in life he retired from Tyson. James enjoyed photography, music, singing, hunting and target shooting as just a few of his favorite past times. He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend. James was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Maxine Rogers, Peggy Scott and Carol Dukes. He is survived by his wife of 8 years, Barbara; sons, James Ikaika Mikioi McCool and Jason Christopher McCool; daughter, Elvira Makanalanikia. Many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other family members too numerous to mention. Mr. McCool will be sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
William “Frank” Pearl
William “Frank” Pearl, age 68, passed away Saturday, January 9, 2021 at his home surrounded by family and friends. He was born October 7, 1952 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Samuel Jefferson Pearl and Jaunita Morgan Hightower. He was united in marriage to Shirley White in 2002. He was a sheet rocker by profession and served his country in the United Stated Army. William enjoyed playing yatzee, and just all around piddling. When he was able, he enjoyed fishing and was a great cook. He was an accomplished guitar player and admirer of music. Singing to his wife, Shirley brought him great joy. William was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. He will be dearly missed. He is preceded in death by his parents; step-father, Wilson Hightower; step-mother, Leda Pearl; sisters, Bonnie Martin and Linda. William
is survived by his wife, Shirley; son, Jammey Anderson and wife Rhonda; daughters, Terri Ann Floyd Armijo and husband Frankie, Tina Jo Laws and husband Timothy and Regina Webb; 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; brother, Sam Pearl and wife Mitzi, sisters, Rebecca Dalton and Beverly Anderson; special friend, Cullis Lee; a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends too great to mention. William will be sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
Christy Ann Rodland Phipps
Christy Ann Rodland Phipps, age 61, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021 at her home. She was born December 9, 1959 in Sacramento, California to Maynard and Claudia Rodland. Christy was united in marriage to Don Phipps. She proudly served her country in the United States Army. She was an Escrow Coordinator and was manager of the Sun Country Inn in Mena, Arkansas for approximately 10 years. Christy was an avid reader. She enjoyed traveling and loved growing flowers. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend. She will be dearly missed. She was preceded in death by her father, Maynard Rodland. Christy is survived by her husband, Don; sons, Chris and Jereme Jenkins; mother, Claudia Rodland; brother, Duane Rodland; sisters, Debbie Stephenson and Suzie Rodland, 7 grandchildren; 9 nieces and nephews. Mrs. Phipps will be sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
Obituaries Continued on Page 6
6 Obituaries
THE POLK COUNTY
January 13, 2021
Bonnie Bee Pruitt Bonnie Bee Pruitt, 74, of Hatfield, Arkansas, died January 5, 2021 in Mena, Arkansas. She was born July 31, 1946 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Jessie and Willie Scott Pruitt. Bonnie enjoyed playing dominos and cards. She loved the Lord and previously attended the Church of Christ at Mt. Fork. She spent her life as a homemaker. Bonnie was a very loving and caring mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be missed by many family and friends. She is survived by her son, Jimmy Pruitt of Hatfield, Arkansas; sister, Faye Combs of Hatfield, Arkansas; sister-in-law, Sandy Pruitt of Mena, Arkansas; a host of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Joe Pruitt and Jack Pruitt; sisters, Willene Jordan, Betty Atchley, Bessie Shores and Lorene Elliott. Pallbearers will be Jessie Pruitt, Jody Pruitt, Mark Shores, Henry Wilkinson, Leon Jordan, John Jordan, Paul Hamm and Josh Nichols. Services for Bonnie will be Friday, January 8, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel with Bro. Troy Denton officiating. Interment will follow in the Foster Cemetery under the direction of Beasley-Wood Fu-
479-394-7301 1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
Now Open On Fridays Mon - Fri 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
neral Home. Visitation is Thursday, January 7, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Elmer Norman Simpson
Elmer Norman Simpson, age 80, of Norman, passed away Wednes-
day, January 6, 2021. He was born August 19, 1940, in Little Hope, the son of Edward Norman Simpson and Ester A. Brewer Simpson. On December 24, 1960, he was married to Velma Lou Kiser Simpson, who preceded him in death on February 2, 2005. He was also preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Earnest Simpson; and two sisters, Helen Gortemiller and Eva Tanner. Elmer will always be remembered for how he did things his own unique way, especially being known for saying just what he was thinking, whether you might like it or not. He loved farming, took great pride in raising his cattle and livestock, and would not only haul cattle for himself but for many others. With the help of his family, he also owned and operated a poultry laying house for several years. He loved going to the cattle sale at the Cattleman’s Livestock Market in Glenwood, and whether he was there to work or just to enjoy and visit with all his friends, it was always a happy place for him. Elmer was an avid outdoorsman, loving to hunt and search for just that special deer, and now his family and friends will forever have many cherished hunting stories and special memories made together at deer camp. He has passed on a love for hunting and raising animals, along with a wealth of knowledge on how to do just about anything. Anyone who had the privilege of meeting and getting to know Elmer, most likely has a story of their own to share about
him. Above all else, Elmer’s greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, who he dearly loved with all his heart. He will truly be missed by everyone. He is survived by two sons and one daughter-in-law, James Simpson of Sulphur Springs and Roger and Melanie Simpson of Glenwood; two daughters and sons-in-law, Paula and Leonard McCormick of Mena and Martha and Rickey Beshears of Oden; seven grandchildren, Rustin, Jerod, Chase, Levi, Makenna, Haley and Blakley; four great-grandchildren, Remington, Greyson, Kynlee and Kassidy; his sister, Evaughn Ralls; his sister-in-law, Margie Lewis of Mena; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and a host of wonderful, life-long friends. Graveside services were held at 2:30PM, Monday, in Sulphur Springs Cemetery with Bro. Kyle Cowart and Bro. Rusty Lewis officiating. Visitation was held Monday, 9:30AM-11:00AM, in Davis-Smith Funeral Home Chapel, Glenwood. Pallbearers were Allen Dabbs, Larry Jones, Mark Kizer, George Menezes, Jerry Ralls, Tim Shelley, Sam Waters and Randy Reed. Honorary pallbearers were Wayne Simpson, Gary Simpson, Ronny Lenard, Richard Lane, the entire crew of Cattleman’s Livestock Market in Glenwood, Steven McGrew and Danny McGrew and their families.
James L. Smith, Sr.
James L. Smith, Sr. “Deadeye”, age 73, of Marshall, Texas formerly of Hatfield, Arkansas passed away Sunday, January 10, 2021 in Marshall. He was born May 28, 1947 in Beech, Oklahoma to the late Burla Snow Beggs. James was a truck driver by profession. He enjoyed fishing, camping, deer hunting and driving his log trucks. He also enjoyed telling life stories. He was a loving husband, father,
Pulse
grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. James was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lois Smith; brothers, Terry Beggs and Gary Snow; sisters, Janie Barker, Sandra Kay Beggs and Robbie Leona Beggs. He is survived by his son, James Smith, Jr. of Mena, Arkansas; daughters, Dusty Singleton and husband Perry of Marshall, Texas, Gidget White and husband Bryan of Nevada, Texas, and Martha Ragugini and husband Kevin of Marshall, Texas; grandchildren, Cheyenne, Jaquita, Justina, Ashley, James Smith, III, James Smith IV, Jimmy Smith, Jr., Dekota Weeks, Cody and Faith George, and Avery White; a host of great grandchildren; brothers, Roger Beggs and Jerry Snow; sisters, Linda Ferguson and Kathy Hoover. Funeral service will be Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home Chapel with Robert Weeks officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield, Arkansas. Services are under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 13, 2021 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Cecil Fairless, Floyd Fairless, Clifford Fairless, Marty Fairless, Pete Fairless, Jimmy Smith, Jr., Dekota Weeks, and Cody George.
Joan Spenser
Joan Spenser, beloved mother, g r an d m ot h e r, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend passed away peacefully due to complications of COVID-19 December 23, 2020, at age 100. Joan, the eldest daughter of Edward McCaffrey and Irene Bates was born in Chicago, IL in 1920. Raised by her widowed mother in the midst of the Depression, Joan began to nurture her
Obituaries Continued on Page 7
THE POLK COUNTY
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January 13, 2021
lifelong love of learning at an early age, winning a scholarship to attend Chicago Teachers College. Shortly after graduating in 1942, she moved to Washington, DC to work for the Department of Commerce. She met Charles “Spense” Spenser, her beloved husband of 63 years, at a USO dance on her first day in town. Joan and Spense married in 1946, and raised their five children in Silver Spring, MD. She attained an additional degree in library science from Catholic Univ. in 1964, and worked for Montgomery County Public Libraries as a children’s librarian for 14 years. After retiring, Joan and Spense spent many years in AZ and CA before settling at Falcon’s Landing in Potomac Falls, VA. Joan had many years to enjoy her retirement and filled her days with volunteer work, travel, and visits with friends and loved ones. A devout Catholic, she remained active in Bible study and served as a Eucharistic minister. She never lost her love of learning, attending classes in history, literature, and political science well into her 90s. Joan’s humor, kindness, intelligence, and sense of fun endeared her to anyone who was lucky enough to know her. Joan is survived by sons John (Cheryl), William, and James (Patricia), daughter Kathleen (Randall), 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Charles “Spense,” daughter Joanne (Stephen) Engstrom, and sister Cecile (Walter) Hill. A celebration of her life will be held when pandemic conditions permit. Joan will be interred alongside her husband at Arlington Cemetery.
Rufus Wayne Thacker
Rufus Wayne Thacker, 76, of Mena, Arkansas, died January 5, 2021 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born to the late Lester and Allene Thacker on February 25, 1944 in
Mena, Arkansas. Rufus loved to tell stories. He relived many pipeline jobs through his storytelling. He was a hard worker and never backed down from a challenge. When he was home from “work” he was always outside working on his place or in his shop. He was a dedicated employee at Century Inspection for 55 years where he worked as an x ray technician and supervisor. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Dovie Thacker; children, Diane and Charles Billings of Chetopa, Kansas, Becky, and Abe Austin of McCarney, Texas, Debbie and Tony Youmans of Hatfield, Arkansas, Marty and Shiela Thacker of LaPorte, Indiana and Ron and Tonya Thacker of Mena, Arkansas; twelve grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren. Rufus is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bobby Thacker, Odell Thacker and Leroy Thacker; sister, Laverne Thompkins; infant sister, Zelda. Pallbearers will be Rocky Billings, Ray Billings, Randy Beaty, Travis Youmans, Dallas Thacker and Ty Thacker. Services will be held Friday, January 8, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. in the Beasley Wood Chapel with Brother Donnie Jewell officiating. Interment will follow at Foster Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home.
Carmen Ilene Powers
Carmen Ilene Powers, age 92, of Mena, died Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab in Mena, Arkansas. She was born on Wednesday, December 5, 1928 to August Dallas Lange and Nora Bryan in Waterloo, Iowa. She is preceded in death by her parents. Carmen is survived by her daughter, Nancy Onyon of Catoosa, Oklahoma; and a host of other relatives and friends. No services are planned at this time. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.
History 7
Reflections from History and Faith
Religious Freedom Day By Jeff Olson Religious freedom has been a core value in America ever since her inception and founding, and one of the fundamental natural (unalienable) rights within our nation’s organic laws. As such, it is not conferred upon us by certain political groups or civil institutions. Rather, it is a pre-political inheritance from Almighty God and a basic tenet of Natural Law. As our Declaration of Independence states, “That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” A major milestone in this part of the American journey occurred 235 years ago this Saturday, January 16. On this day, National Religious Freedom Day, we commemorate the passage of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. January 16, 1786 culminated nearly ten years of hard work, deliberation, debate, and delays on this statute which had its origins in the spring of 1776 through George Mason’s authorship of the Virginia Declaration of Rights. This document also directly influenced other foundational American documents that followed, including the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and especially the Bill of Rights. In the autumn of 1776, when the decision was made to update the laws of Virginia, the Virginia legislature commissioned a Committee of Revisors to fulfill this charge. Thomas Jefferson was chosen as chairman and what became to be known as a Revisal of the Laws [of the State of Virginia] officially began in January 1777. Jefferson saw the Revisals
as necessary and justified in light of the severing of legal connections with the mother country, a need to bring the laws of the individual colonies into conformity with republican principles, and to remove from the existing legal code any remaining vestiges of British monarchical rule. In Jefferson’s words, the Revisal was to structure “a system by which every fibre would be eradicated of ancient or future aristocracy...that our whole code must be reviewed, adapted to our republican form of government, and, now that we had no negatives of Councils, Governors, and Kings to restrain us from doing right, it should be corrected, in all it’s parts, with a single eye to reason, and the good of those for whose government it was framed.” Among Jefferson’s deepest concerns, and one of course he hoped the Revisal would remedy, was the issue of religious freedom. While George Mason’s Virginia Declaration of Rights included a guarantee of the free exercise of religion, Jefferson didn’t think it was thorough or explicit enough. In 1779, after Jefferson was elected Governor of Virginia, the committee’s catalog of 126 bills was presented to the General Assembly. However, some of the bills were not considered or adopted and further work on the Revisal was sporadic and slow. This was further aggravated by Jefferson’s subsequent appointment as the American Ambassador to France. On October 31, 1785, after most of a decade and significant correspondence with Jefferson, James Madison revived Jefferson’s vision of seeing the bills enacted into law. He guided them through the legislative process before the Virginia Assembly, presenting 118 bills contained in the Report of the Revisors. The Bill For Establishing Religious Freedom was one of those (Bill 82) and also the first of five consecutive bills ad-
See HISTORY page 14
8 Faith
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
January 13, 2021
An Arkie’s Faith
Talasbuan Fäbod By: Richie Lawry Not far from the edge of the mountain, in Jämtland Sweden, lies Talasbuan fäbod. It stood empty for 80 years before Tova and Mathias decided to give new life to the old place. There is no easy way to translate the Swedish word fäbod into English. It is a summer pasture for one or several homesteads’ livestock. A fäbod consisted of several simple buildings such as a dwelling-house, cattle shed, storage cabins, and a cooking cabin. Each building had a specific purpose. These buildings are simple log cabins for summer use only. The use of a summer pasture is ancient; The practice goes back over one thousand years. In this part of Sweden, the hay meadows were small. The amount of hay produced by the homesteads in these areas was barely enough to keep the livestock alive during winter. The fields were for winter fodder only. The cattle could not be allowed to graze in the homestead’s meadows. If they did, there would be no winter fodder. The farmers in these areas used summer pastures on common land in the forests and hills to survive. In 2012, Tova and Mathias moved into a small cottage at an old fäbod. On their blog, Talasbuan Off the Grid, Tova states, “I have always, or for as long as I remember, wanted to have a fäbod. Live there at summertime with my animals and make cheese
and butter. Then I met Mathias and after a while we thought, why not live like this year around? To come closer to nature and feel the shifts in the seasons in a deeper way. Feel the calm and be away from all the things that beeps and make a sound in an ordinary home. We have surely made it harder for ourselves, we could probably have bought a place with electricity and so on. But keeping this fäbod tradition, and guarding traditional skills is important to us, and so is the satisfying feeling of living a very resilient life.” She goes on to say, “The todo list is long, build the new log house, because currently we live in 15 square meters, a cheese cellar and a root cellar, the creamery, the kitchen garden and so on. We have sheep, chickens, pigs, rabbits, cats and dogs, In time cows and maybe goats. We are harvesting, making hay for the animals and going for the self-sufficient life.” In February 2017, Tova and Mathias published their first vlog and have been making them ever since. I recently discovered their YouTube channel and have been fascinated by their videos. The forests of Sweden are beautiful and peaceful. Watching these two young people learning to live off of the land gives me a new appreciation for the hard work that goes into such a life. Seeing the love
that they have for their animals, their land, and their life together is heartwarming. The simplicity of the life they have chosen, juxtaposed with the required hard work, fascinates me. As much as I enjoy watching about life at Talasbuan Fäbod, I can’t imagine living off the grid. I can’t imagine living with the cold, the snow, the dark winter. I’m not ready to give up all of the comforts of electricity, running water, and indoor plumbing. There are not many people in the western world who are living their lives off the grid. Electrical power is one of those things that we don’t think about very often. We usually only think about electrical power when it isn’t there. When we flip the switch, we expect the lights to go on. When we come home from work, we expect the house to be comfortable. When we open the refrigerator, we expect the milk to be cold. When the power isn’t working, it suddenly becomes crucial. Anyone who was living in Polk County during December 2000 remembers being without power. A significant ice storm developed on Christmas Day and continued through the early morning hours of December 27th. A layer of ice up to 3 inches thick covered everything. 300,000 Arkansans were without power for many days. The 2000 ice storm may be the worst natural disaster in Arkansas history.
“I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.” Psalms 59:16
We were without power for six days and had friends in South Polk County without power for 23 days. Even though our house still had all of its electrical wiring, outlets, and switches, nothing worked. Habits are hard to break, and even after days without power, I still found myself trying to turn on the lights. Even though everything looked fine, there was no power. The experience gave me a taste of what it would be like to live off the grid. Many people in our culture, in our society, live their lives apart from God. Spiritually, they have chosen to live their lives off the grid. Just like a house without electricity, we have no power in ourselves. We need to plug into the grid of God’s power. There are even Christians who seem reluctant to plug into God’s power. They feel that they have enough strength of their own to overcome sin. But we cannot change ourselves. I’m sure that your experience verifies the fact that sheer willpower cannot conquer sin. On our own, living like Christ is not difficult; it’s impossible. In John 15:5 (NLT), Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” Gentle Reader, just like we take our electrical power for granted, we also often take God’s power for granted. We expect Him to love us. We expect Him to be there for us, but how often do we think about His power? I don’t want to live off the grid. I want to say with King David, “I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.” Psalms 59:16 (NLT)
Joke of the Week: Research shows that six out of seven dwarves are not happy.
Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Humor 9
January 13, 2021
Hogspore News
His Pappy was a Ventriloquist By Clet Litter from the Ozarks
Hogspore took in the Elementary School Spelling Bea last Fridae. Principal Imogene Scoggins called out the words for the little overachievers. Fifth grader Coyote Willers won the contest with the correct answer for the word “patriot” by spelling KICK OUT THE INCUMBENTS. Mumford Pickens is writing a book. Yep, the Ex-CIA operative, who now runs a solar-powered still in the woods, is gonna be an author. In high school, he was president of the Ventriloquist’s Club. What with the club activities, his weekly accordion lessons, and part-time mime job, he didn’t date much. His Pappy was a ventriloquist and so was his Grandpappy. It musta been a disappointment to his kinfolk when Mumford joined the Spy Society and give up the family business. He’s almost finished formulating Ventriloquism for Dummies. After he retired from guvernment work, he bragged that for thirty years, he still worked with dummies. Greyhound Bus Line has a special free ride back home for runaways. I remember when I was a kid, my parents would leave Greyhound Bus brochures in my room, along with discount coupons and directions to the station. They was always playing that kind of practical joke, those two old lovable scamps. Jimmy Suspenders was moaning about his life to Doc Spicer. “I ate something bad for supper cause I woke up with stomach cramps this morning. Later, I saw a hospital commercial showing a baby being born, and I started crying.” Doc asked him, “Were you good at sports when you were a youngin?” “Yeah, I was right accomplished in every sport.” “That’s what I thought. With the symptoms you have, you probably woulda done well in the Olympics Decathlon.” Preacher had a message in his sermon that hinted that he needed more donations for the church. He said, “I’m praying for a blessing for my flock for abundant times when you make more money than you need … so you can devote it to your place of worship. When you’re poor, you may not be so happy, but you learn the most … and I sure am learning a lot in these days.” The new Yoga studio, Round the Bends, is opening soon in town and is hiring for all positions. Flexible schedules are available. You can contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com .
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10 Community
January 13, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Submitted Photos Mena Regional Health System celebrated with John Grogan this last week as he left the facility to go home! John allowed us to share his success story to inspire hope in others during this difficult time. John has been in MRHS Med-Surg, ICU and Rehab units for a total of 7 weeks as he battled COVID-19. He spent 10 of those days on a ventilator. John’s mother attended his send-off celebration and commented that she is thankful to, “God and the care of the nurses and doctors for allowing him a chance to go home.”
The
Green House Cottages of Homewood
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Reinventing The Nursing Home
LOCATED IN MENA CALL TODAY
(479)3377115 WWW.HOMEWOODGHC.COM
THE POLK COUNTY
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Community 11
January 13, 2021
Submitted Photos
Congratulations to Mena High School seniors Ciara Lance, Madison Blair, London Copelin, Cori Hilton, and Jaci Allen. They have been awarded the Board of Visitors Scholarship from UA Rich Mountain. This is a full academic scholarship.
870-387-2021
5607 Hwy 71 l South Cove, AR
Can't believe it's been 3 years! Celebrate our 3 year anniversary by registering for a $100 gift card or a $50 gift basket!
12 Outdoors
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
January 13, 2021
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL
COLD WEATHER SURVIVAL By Steven E Stillwell
Winter poses different challenges for the outdoorsmen, because cold weather can have a negative impact on your body, mental capacity, and essential equipment. In freezing temperatures, the survival gear that you rely on could malfunction, because things have a tendency to shrink, crack, or seize-up! When your extremities, especially your fingers are cold, your reaction time slows down, it becomes painful to perform simple tasks, and in some situations, it’s impossible. Some of you reading this article might have experienced colder climates, but minus -40 below, without the wind-chill factor is hard to beat.
Physical exertion can be dangerous when it’s subzero outside, because the combination of perspiration and evaporation will cause your body to cool off and this can kill you. In order to function, you need to pace yourself, and regulate your body temperature ‒ this is easier said than done! Hypothermia is defined as; low and dangerous body temperature, caused by prolonged exposure to cold conditions. In a survival situation, you have to create a MICRO ENVIRONMENT in order to sustain yourself. What am I talking about; keep reading and you’ll find out? When your body starts feeling cold, you need to warm yourself up, and a survival shelter is your best
TRANSCENDENCE energy + body work
option when you’re miles away from civilization. If the weather permits, be sure to utilize your campfire to the fullest extent. It’s also possible to build an improvised fireplace inside, but this takes practice and a certain amount of skill. Having something as simple as a candle in your daypack could make things a little more comfortable, because a strategic combination of things certainly adds-up. STAY DRY AND SURVIVE. It’s imperative that your structure is waterproof, and constructed in such a manner that it’s an effective windbreak. Adequate ventilation is also important, because carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal, but your shelter must have the ability to trap a certain amount of heat in order to be effective. You’ll have to experiment to find the happy-medium. Taking intermittent breaks, changing your socks, and allowing your damp clothing to dry out, will help stave-away the winter chills. Rotation is a key element when it comes to staying warm. Dirt, grime, and perspiration will impede your body and your clothing’s ability to trap radiant heat. In layman’s terms, CLEANER CLOTHES WILL KEEP YOU WARMER. 20 years ago, I traveled to Wiscon-
sin for a routine hunting trip, but the weather turned nasty and bitter cold before reaching my destination. I’ve driven in hazardous conditions more times than I can count, but this winter storm was unique and brutal. Luckily I was prepared, because MURPHY’S LAW dictates that the worst case scenarios will always present themselves when you’re not ready. The thermometer was pegged at zero degrees when I arrived, and the wind-chill factor was approximately minus -20 below. The next morning was opening day of deer season, and the climate was even worse. In fact, it was so cold that everyone’s rifle froze shut, except for mine. What was my secret; it’s vital that you degrease, and keep your weapon bone-dry in winter conditions? Any moisture whatsoever, including certain gun oils, can freeze when the temperatures dip. If you bring your firearm inside after spending a few hours in the field, this complicates matters, because the steel will sweat and condensation will form within seconds! After each and every hunt, I stowed my rifle in a gunsheath and in my cold truck’s camper where conditions wouldn’t fluctuate. My weapon never failed me, and I shot three deer that week. If you’re interested in learning and sharing more survival skills, I invite you to join our Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. We also welcome your comments and suggestions!
Auto Glass - Window Tint - Accessories & More
WE ARE YOUR AFTERMARKET SPECIALIST 1509 Hwy 71-S 479-394-6424 25+ Years in the Auto Restyling Industry
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Outdoors 13
January 13, 2021
Wanderlust & Arkansas Dust
Top 10 Arkansas Trails By Lacey Yoakem
10. Earthquake Ridge is a heavily trafficked 4.4 mile loop located at the Information Center on Rich Mountain. This trail travels up the mountain for 1 mile before it crosses highway 88 and descends down a lovely pine needle covered, rocky ridge. That’s where the trail gets its name. 9. Crystal Vista located off highway 27 near Norman, Arkansas is a nice family friendly hike, all though it is steep. This trail is an immediate uphill mile hike to the top of Gardner Mountain, where quartz crystals are seemingly sprinkled about. 8. Paige Falls trail is a .7 mile heavily trafficked trail located in the Ozark Mountains by Compton, Arkansas. This trail features several cascading waterfalls before reaching Paige Falls, an 8 ft waterfall and Broadwater Hollow Falls, a 21 ft waterfall. 7. Harris Creek Trail is a moderate 3.2 mile loop located near Umpire, Arkansas. This trail provides plenty of scenery as it follows you along 3 different body’s of water: Bakers Creek, Harris Creek and the Cossatot River. This trail provides many scenic overlooks and benches all along the way. This is a well maintained trail with these quaint little bridges that walk you over some small waterfalls too. I love this trail. 6. Black Fork Mountain trail is an
11 mile hard uphill hike to the highest point on Black Fork Mountain. I’ve done this hike 3 times and it never gets easier but the reward is worth every step. This trail is hard, its narrow, it’ll test ya. 5. Tall Peak Tower is a fieldstone structure built in 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This historical site can be reached by a 2 mile, in and out, service road off Polk County 64, or by the 6.3 mile trail located at Shady Lake. There’s caves and waterfalls on the trail. 4. The Little Grand Canyon located at the spillway of White Oak Lake near Chidester, Arkansas is a short, friendly saunter into the woods with
Just like that favorite old book
We’ve Come Back to You HOURS
MONDAY-FRIDAY 10AM - 6PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM - 3PM
410 Sherwood Ave. • Mena, AR
(479) 234-5568
Servicing Mena & Surrounding Areas
FIVE “J“ ELECTRIC, INC. CONTRACTORS
Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC 1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953
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a surprising outcome. This uniquely layered chunk of Arkansas is a swirling mixture of erosion over millions of years. It is quite the sight to see. Pictures don’t do this place justice. Go. Go tomorrow. Go yesterday. Go. 3. Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point in the Ozark Mountains is one of the most popular, and most photographed destinations in Arkansas. This iconic cliffs edge has been featured in countless worldwide magazine articles. This trail is a 2.9 mile descent to a cliff that stretches over a valley at 1,900 ft in elevation. If you plan to hike this trail, go early and be careful. Unfortunately there has been
a number of deaths occur at Whitaker Point and with the growing crowds, the rock is starting to erode. Use caution. The photo isn’t worth your life. 2. Brushy Creek Trail is located at the Cossatot River State Park and it is B E A UTIFUL!!! The moss, the rocks, the bridges, the water canals. This trail is a strenuous 14 mile lightly trekked track into a dagum woodland wonderland. This trail travels along the Cossatot River all the way down to Wickes, Arkansas. 1. Glory. Hole. Falls. Yes, yes you read that right. Glory Hole Falls is a 1.8 mile hike down into a cave tucked away in the Ozark Mountains. What’s special about this cave is the perfectly round hole Dismal Creek has worn away in the ceiling of the cave. During the wet months a majestic waterfall cascades thru the hole, crashing down onto the cave floor and continues on its journey down the mountain. It is my favorite trail. The parking is very limited so as always, go early and be careful. There are high cliffs and slippery slopes, so use caution if you take small children.
(479) 394-3419 fivejelectric@sbcglobal.net Robby & Sonja Birtcher
Hershel Bell Executive Broker
cell: 479-243-5613 hbell.hollysprings@gmail.com
479-394-4200 hollyspringsrealestate.com
New Listing-Local Hometown Gas Station & Cafe! This has been a thriving business in a small community serving south Polk county. In 2019 they added a cafe with new equipment. The fuel pumps are 3 yrs. old. New metal roof installed in 2020. Heating and Air system is 3 years old. Contact Hershel Bell for more information, financials available for qualified buyers. MLS20039360 $146,000
14 Police Reports
January 13, 2021
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.
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG
Criminal Mischief. Report of a hit and run accident on Hwy 71S. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 627 near Dallas Valley of damage January 4, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy done to a vehicle. Deputy responded. 71N near Acorn of identity fraud. Report from complainant on Polk Report of a stolen license plate. 93 near Rocky of items missing Deputy responded. from a residence. Deputy responded. January 7, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk Report from complainant on 301 near Cherry Hill of damage to Polk 659 near Board Camp of an a window and door and the theft unwanted person on the property. of two flat screen T.V.’s for a loss in Deputy responded. the amount of $1600.00. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. January 8, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk No reports filed 194 near Ink of the theft of a log splitter valued at $2000.00. Deputy January 9, 2021 responded. Report from complainant on Polk Report from complainant on Polk 301 near Cherry Hill of the theft of 277 near Vandervoort of a broken a fifth wheel travel trailer. Deputy window. Deputy responded. responded. Report of problems involving Arrested was Brittan Mist Mc- child custody visitations. Deputy Culley, 38, of Hatfield on a Warrant responded. for Failure to Appear, and two Warrants for Failure to Comply. January 10, 2021
No reports filed. January 5, 2021 Report of fraudulent checks on Polk County Sheriff ’s Office a business account. Deputies reworked one vehicle accident this sponded. Investigation continues. week. Polk County Detention Center January 6, 2021 Report of the unauthorized use of Jail Population: 18 Incarcerated Ina vehicle led to the arrest of Marla D. mates, with 11 Inmates currently on Fahrney, 44, of Dierks on a Charge the Waiting List for a State Facility. of Theft of Property and a Charge of
MENA POLICE REPORTS January 3, 2021 A report of a disturbance was taken at a residence on Armour Street. January 4, 2021 A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Evans Circle. A report of disorderly conduct was taken at a residence on 10 th Street. Shannon Shaw, 40, was served with a warrant at the Polk County Detention Center. January 5, 2021 Rachel Crow, 40, was served with a warrant at the Polk County Detention Center. Lisa Caldwell, 53, was served with a warrant at the Polk County Detention Center. Herbert Slater, 35, was served with a warrant at the Polk County Detention Center. January 6, 2021 No reports taken. January 7, 2021 Randy Lewis, 38, was charged with Possession of Meth, Obstructing Governmental Operations, and Resisting Arrest. He was also served with two warrants after a disturbance call to a residence on Ridge Street. A report of assault was taken at a residence on Ridge Street. January 8-9, 2021 No reports taken.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse HISTORY Continued dressing religion. The preamble reads in part, “Almighty God hath created the mind free” and willed “that free it shall remain.” Bill 82 essentially enacted four principles which represented a truly remarkable declaration of intellectual and spiritual independence: no person shall (1) be compelled by civil government to attend or support any religious worship, place, or ministry, nor (2) be punished or restrained by the Commonwealth on account of his/her religious opinions or beliefs; but, on the contrary, every person shall (3) be free to profess and contend for his religious opinions and beliefs, and (4) such activity shall in no way affect his/her civil capacities. This bill in particular was also strongly supported by religious dissenters (primarily Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists and Quakers) who had suffered under the established church in Virginia and who desired religious freedom. While only three of the five bills were enacted into law, they represented a church-state model which promoted an accommodation between the interests of the church and the state and prohibited governmental interference with the freedom of religious beliefs and expression. The Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom is one of the most influential and consequential documents in American History. It ended the Church of England’s (Anglican Church) formal establishment as the state religion and it was a precursor to future disestablishment legislation in other states, setting the course for the religious freedom principles that would become enshrined in many state constitutions as well as in the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights. As James Madison explained, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom “is a true standard of Religious liberty: its principle the great barrier against usurpations on the rights of conscience. As long as it is respected & no longer, these will be safe.”
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 15
January 13, 2021
12.13.21
01.13.21
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 01.06.21
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! This dynamic duo are such good friends we decided to make them our combo Pet of the Week. However, they do not have to go to the same home. Curly is 7 years old and a shepherd/black mouth cur mix. Wiley is about 5 and is a Lab/hound mix. Both struggle with trust issues and can sometimes bark when approached by people. However, neither has shown any aggression. See, neither were socialized very well and people can be a little scary to them. They are both looking for a home where their new family will be patient and go slow with love and understanding. They are both dog friendly and would probably do well in home with good representative dog to help show the way. So, come out to HSO and ask for Curly or Wiley. pr All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for dogs includes a harness, leash, collar, bed, clothing, and toy selection. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
16 Classifieds
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
January 13, 2021
- EMPLOYMENT -
CLASSIFIEDS
- NOTICE -
Sealed bids from licensed contractors for HVAC (Variable Refrigerant Flow) and Steel Window Restoration at the Polk County Courthouse in Mena, Arkansas will be received by Architecture Plus, Inc, 907 South 21st Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901 until 2pm on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, and then at said location publicly opened and read aloud. Plans may be examined and obtained ($50 cost per set obtained) at Architecture Plus, Inc., 907 South 21st Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901. The owner reserves the right to waive any informalities or to reject any or all bids. Bidders may not withdraw their bids within 30 days after the date of bid opening and must provide bid bonds as required. All bidding processes shall be in accordance with State law. To request bidding information or obtain further information contact: Architecture Plus, Inc., 907 South 21st Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 479-783-8395 T011321
The Polk County Road Department will be accepting sealed bids for 2021 culvert purchases. Bids are to be opened in the Polk County Judge’s office at the Polk County Courthouse at 507 Church Avenue in Mena, Arkansas, at 9:00 AM, January 20, 2021. All interested parties should contact Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison at 479-394-8133 for complete specifications and instructions. T011321
- SERVICES Land Clearing, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479)216-2976 for Free estimate. T12302020
We’ve MOVED- EZ Auto and rental to the corner of Racetrack road and Ten Race LaneAuto financing available. T01122021
CNA class forming now! We’ll sponsor you and provide your training and prepare you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a primary caregiver in our new GreenHouse Cottages! Come fill out application for our CNA class and we’ll be announcing the actual start dates soon. Not Just a CNA — A Shahbazim! Green House Project Shahbazim are changing the face of skilled nursing care by redefining and expanding the role of the certified nursing assistant (CNA). The Shahbaz (plural form is Shahbazim), is charged with the honor of nurturing, sustaining and caring for the 12 elders who live there in that cottage. A shahbaz is a universal worker who provides a wide range of assistance, including personal care; activities; meal planning, preparation, and service; and laundry care for up to 12 elders. The Shahbazim also perform light housekeeping duties. Through deep knowing, strong relationships, and an organizational structure that keeps much decision making power in the home, the shahbazim are able to create a meaningful life for and with the elders who call The Green House their home. Call Rich Mountain Nursing & Rehabilitation at 479-394-3511.
We are looking for more energetic, dependable CNAs and LPNs to join our team as we prepare to move over to the cottages! We offer very competitive pay, benefits and flexible hrs. Come grow with us as we make our residents lives worth living. Applications available for day and night shifts for both CNAs and nurses, and interview can be scheduled for same day. Contact Rich Mountain Nursing & Rehabilitation at 479-394-3511.
MENA REAL ESTATE
www.MenaRealEstate.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
January 13, 2021
Around Town 17
Around Town Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3 p.m. Sunday, at UnionBank, to the BackPack program or mail donations to 5 p.m. Tuesday and at 8p.m. Saturday at the old bus barn at Mena Lioness Lions, PO Box 688, Mena AR 71953. the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-216-3786 The Polk County Housing Authority will be closed on Monday, January 18th for Martin Luther Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Monday, at King, Jr. Day. 7 p.m. Thurday, at 7 p.m. Friday, and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call The Mena/Polk County Lions Club is host479-216-5812. ing a Hamburger cookout to benefit their Eye Care Program that provides eye exams and eye wear to those in need. The The Mena Lioness Club is asking the com- cookout will be helf Friday January 15 from 11am-1 pm. Each munity to make donations to the Backpack meal is $6 and includes a hamburger, chips, oatmeal cream Program, which sends food home with children during the pie, and bottled water. Pre-order by 11 am on January 14 by school year. It cost $126 to sponsor one child for the year, calling 479-234-0645. Order 5 meals or more for free delivor $14 a month. To help assist the program and help a food ery. insecure child through this program, drop off donations at Beth Polo Beckel RD LD CDE, our local licensed nutrition educator will always be in one place...
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
www.todayscoop.com 318 Hwy 71 S - Mena 479-394-3373
Call 394.7301 to make your appointment! All ages WELCOME.
ARVAC, Inc. will be distributing commodities Wednesday, January 20th at the Polk County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. till 1 p.m. For more information call the local ARVAC, Inc, office at 479-394-4707. Veterans Cafe, Friday, January 15, 1 pm at Sherwood Bistro, Mena. Free coffee and opportunity for area Veterans to get together and swap stories. It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!
18 Community
“GODS, GUNS, AND MONEY ON THE ROAD TO KEY WEST”
Submitted Photo Mena Regional Health System's first vaccine recipient, Dr. Swonger, received his second dose of COVID-19 vaccination as scheduled. He noted that he did not have any reaction or side effects of the first vaccine beyond some soreness in the arm around the injection site. He added, "I hope many in the community decide to get the vaccine as it becomes available."
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are the questions we ask ourselves when we look up at the stars, as well as a theme that explores the remarkable connection we often share with some of the creatures that experience this planet with us. Everything in between is just h e ar t - h am m e r i n g , page-ripping action. It’s very close to my favorite novel in this series. Also, what makes this an attractive read is that it’s a ‘stand alone’ book. You don’t need to have read the entire series to enjoy it.” Gods, Guns, and Money On The Road To Key West is now available on Amazon (Kindle version $3.99 and Paperback $12.99).
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In what may well be “the best yet,” the 12th book of Michael Reisig’s “Road To Key West” series offers white knuckle airplane crashes, wild lustful Amazonians, bungled bank thefts, river pirates, remarkable dogs and hawks, an ancient crystal skull, diamond thieves, drug lords, and an amazing “Animal Man.” If this book doesn’t keep you turning the pages, you need life support. Reisig says of his new one: “’Gods, Guns, And Money’ is a wild adventure that carries the reader from South Florida, into the Caribbean, down to South America, and back again. Intertwined through the read
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January 13, 2021
Second Round of COVID-19 Vaccine Given to Local Doctor
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Ancient Art Alive & Well In The Ouachitas By Trey Youngdahl
Unbeknownst to some, Mena is home to a vibrant community of blacksmiths, specifically those who practice “old school” blacksmithing techniques. The Rich Mountain Blacksmith Club was founded by Matt Hughes with the help of Ted McCauley in 2017. Hughes, a longtime hobbyist blacksmith, started the group after attending the Bladesmithing School in Texarkana, using the club as both an outlet for his creative itch, as well as a tool to teach those desiring to learn the art. In his classes, the projects range from forging basic ‘S’ hooks, steak flippers and even hand-tools that students will use for future projects. Students also get the chance to work alongside seasoned blacksmiths, who are always happy to help and coach along the beginners. Working with the more experienced blacksmiths gives the students an opportunity to explore advanced projects and introduces them to the blacksmithing community. In addition, s tu d e nt s and club m e m bers are given the opportunity to demonstrate
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January 13, 2021
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their blacksmithing abilities in shows at several festivals throughout the year, including The Viking Festival in Heavner, Oklahoma, and The Bigfoot Festival in Honobia, Oklahoma. The purpose of the club was never to make money. Hughes’s goal in creating the class was always to pass on the skills and knowledge of this ancient trade to ensure it’s life in the next generation. Because of this, it is free to join the club and class. However, a Bladesmithing and Knifemaking class is available for a fee. To join the class, please contact Matt Hughes through the Facebook group, ‘Rich Mountain Black Smith Club’. Photos By Trey Youngdahl
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