January 22, 2020 by The Pulse

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January 22, 2020 Stay Connected!

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Seniors Speak Out During Public Hearing

By Chris Daniel

There was a Public Hearing Tuesday prior to the Mena City Council meeting to allow citizen input concerning two grants that will be applied for on behalf of the City and the Mena - Polk Senior Citizens Center by Western Arkansas Panning and Development District (WAPDD). Tracee McKenna with WAPDD conducted the hearing before a full house at City Hall. Numerous people commented about the many benefits of the Mena - Polk Senior Citizens Center. There were a number of needed updates and improvements mentioned that grant money could be used for that would allow the Center to continue operating without cutbacks, including repairs to the concrete floor that is buckling, updating the heating and air system, enclosing a carport to make room for a larger walk in freezer and pantry, and improving the insulation. The grant would be a matching grant from the Arkansas Community and Economic Development Program (ACEDP). The second part of the hearing concerned a separate grant for outdoor recreation projects. Some of the possible uses for this grant included shade at the city pool, trees, updating playground equipment at Janssen Park, additional ball fields at Tapley Park to accommodate 13 and 14 year olds that have no field to use at this time, and a walking trail. This grant would be from the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism Outdoor Recreation Matching Grant Program. Both grants are in the development stages and will be applied for later this year. Mayor Seth Smith is working with WAPDD and will also be requesting support for the grants from Mena's State Senator and State Representative. Immediately following the hearing the City Council met for their regular monthly session. All aldermen were present,

along with the Mayor, City Clerk/Treasurer, City Attorney and Department Heads. The Council took care of routine business and heard reports from Department Heads. A Resolution was passed in support of the continuation of the one half percent sales tax for highways and bridges, county roads, and other surface transportation. An ordinance was passed approving the application of Little Italy for a private club to be located at their location on Hwy 71 North in Mena. Little Italy will now have to apply to the Department of Finance and Administration Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. The Council approved the purchase of two new police interceptor sedans bought on the state bid. The February City Council meeting was changed to February 18, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. so as to not conflict with an Arkansas Highway Commission Public Hearing in Mena scheduled for February 11, 2020.

Arkansas Highway Commission Approves Bid for Improvements in Polk County

The Arkansas State Highway Commission has approved a bid for improvements to roadways in Polk County, according to Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) officials. The purpose of this project is to resurface selected sections of 3.7 miles of U.S. Highway 71 and State Highway 88 in Mena. Crow Group, Inc. of Morrilton was awarded the contract at $1,881,608.15. Construction is scheduled to begin in two to four weeks, weather permitting. Completion is expected in mid 2020.

County’s Top Spellers Compete (Story on page 10) 1st grade – 1st place: Rajesh Dandikar, 2nd place: Lilly Arender, 3rd place: Brody Ward 2nd grade – 1st place: Amelia Espinola, 2nd place: Adelyn Barton, 3rd place: Channing Wimberly 3rd grade – 1st place: Drew Mabry, 2nd place: Amelia Espinola, 3rd place: Lindsey Munoz 4th grade – 1st place: Ayden Dong, 2nd place: Shooter Davis, 3rd place: Jaylie Brantley 5th grade – 1st place: Ryan Jiang, 2nd place: Adileni Herrera, 3rd place: Ayden Dong 6th grade – 1st place: Ryan Jiang, 2nd place: Brandon Dong, 3rd place: Lacy McEntire 7th grade – 1st place: Bradley Harwood, 2nd place: Yennette Tecson, 3rd place: Elijah Smith 8th grade – 1st place: Shantal Tecson, 2nd place: Kenzie Daniels, 3rd place: Jocelyn Biard

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Follow us! Research tells us that 61% of low-income families have no age-appropriate books in their homes. Middle-income homes have an average of Representative John Maddox 13 books per child. On average, children in poverty have been exposed to only 25 hours of one-on-one reading, compared to middle-class children who have been exposed to 1,000-1,700 hours of oneon-one reading. Only 48% of young children are read to daily. Exposure to books provides significant academic advantages as 85% of the brain is developed between the ages of 3-5. To provide Arkansas families with more resources, a state 501 (c) (3) partnered with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in July 2017. Arkansas is 1 of 4 states to partner with the organization. In 1995, singer-songwriter Dolly Parton launched the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, to beneﬁt the children of her home county in East Tennessee. Her vision was to foster a love of reading among her county’s preschool children and their families. The new program gave each child from birth to age 5 a specially selected book each month. The program has expanded and now delivers 1.4 million books each

month to children nationwide. Recently, the House and Senate Education Committees were updated on the progress of the Arkansas Imagination Library. Approximately, 39,000 books are delivered each month to Arkansas children enrolled in the program. And in the last year, more than 427,000 books have been delivered to Arkansas homes. The number of books mailed monthly grew 87.3% in just two years.

editor

LETTER TO THE

Dear Editor, Mr. Olson wrote an article recently about Religious Freedom Day. He pointed out how our constitution allows the right to worship as we choose. I wanted to add that we also have a right to choose not to worship –in other words, be free from religion. Non-believers are abundant in this country, but are frequently overlooked and misunderstood. We care quite a bit about helping our fellow humans and we try our best to make this world a better place. And we do it because we are good people too! Atheists believe that what happens in this world is up to us and we have to take responsibility for our (planet’s) future. We are just like everyone else except that we don’t follow any organized religion. And we respect our fellow humans’ choice to worship as they please. This freedom is one of the many things that makes our country great. Sincerely, Jean Rabalais

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editor

LETTER TO THE

The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must be less than 300 words and must not contain obscene or libelous language. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after hour convenience. TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS Email NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM or Contact One of Our MARKETING SPECIALIST

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January 22, 2020

history

Reflections from History and Faith: Choosing Life or Rights?

By Jeff Olson Forty-seven years ago this week, January 22, 1973, the “Roe v. Wade” Supreme Court decision was issued. The history of abortion in our country is quite lengthy and complex. According to common law tradition inherited by United States from England, abortion before “quickening,” (or when the baby’s movements could be felt) was not a crime. In 1821, Connecticut adopted a portion of a British law and passed the first U.S. law banning abortion after quickening. At the time of the adoption of the 14th Amendment in 1868, twenty states (out of thirty-seven) restricted abortion. By the 1950s, almost every state banned all abortions except when necessary to save the mother’s life. In the 1960s, a shift began. Thirteen states opened access to abortion and thirty-one states allowed it only to save the life of the mother. In 1970 a Texas woman, under the pseudonym Jane Roe, challenged her state abortion law on the basis of a right of privacy. The U.S. Constitution does not include a right of privacy. However, the Court held that Bill of Rights protections of free speech, assembly and religious exercise, freedom from forced quartering of troops, unreasonable searches and seizures, and forced self-incrimination create “zones of privacy.” And, the 9th Amendment’s protection of unenumerated rights could be said to protect

privacy. These “zones” the Court held are places into which the government cannot unreasonably intrude. Roe claimed that the law robbed her of her right of privacy as protected by the combination of Bill of Rights amendments and of her liberty as protected by the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment. The subject of rights was at the forefront of America’s founding and has been in much of America’s social and political discourse and activism in the public square since. However, the classical/traditional concept of rights was simply the freedom to act by your conscience without interference, and it was understood that with each right came a corresponding duty. A right had originally never been understood as a positive conveyance. Today, the language of rights is used to give moral force to what are often merely personal desires. Among the plethora of claimed rights in recent history are reproductive rights and the exclusive right to one’s own body, but here is some food for thought: All human rights are predicated first and foremost on the right to life, and it is the sanctity and dignity of human life which provide the cornerstone upon which all justice and freedom stand. However, there can be neither justice nor freedom if life has no source, value or meaning beyond what only humans subjectively define as acceptable and legitimate. In Roe vs Wade, the Supreme Court rejected this fundamental moral prem-

ise, and in addition: marginalized the federalism inherent in our constitution, disregarded cultural/community norms and moral sensibilities, failed to consider shifting social trends inherent in a free society, and circumvented the legislative process. The result: a decision based not on original constitutional intent or principle nor on historic jurisprudence or precedent but on a highly flawed interpretation and adjudication of six of the ten amendments constituting the Bill of Rights, and insufficient (or no) consideration of the ethical and medical aspects of human conception and prenatal life. Therefore the Court created (legislated) a national law redefining a right of privacy as an avenue for the elimination of a God-given right to life. Perhaps it would have been prudent for the Court to take a closer look at (among other things) the Bible, the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The Court’s ideological and explicit rejection of the fetal “right to life” argument has had fatal consequences for tens of millions of unborn babies and left an untold and immeasurable void that only their presence, love, and unique gifts could have filled in the lives of families and contributed to our society and culture. History has shown that the value of human life is the thread that connects virtually all humanitarian causes and it is at the root of most every major question facing humanity today. As President Ronald

Shelter Insurance® Foundation and Telissa Montgomery sponsor local high school scholarship

This 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 20 states via a network of local insurance agents and headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

Reagan expressed it in 1988, “We cannot diminish the value of one category of human life - the unborn - without diminishing the value of all human life...” Norma L. McCorvey (Roe in Roe vs Wade) revealed in 1995 that she became pro-life. In her testimony to Congress in an effort to have Roe v. Wade overturned, she stated “It was my pseudonym, Jane Roe, which had been used to create the “right” to abortion out of legal thin air.” From then on she dedicated herself to pro-life work, starting her own ministry, “Roe No More,” in 1997. McCorvey passed away in 2017. In looking back, there have been nearly 62 million abortions in the United States since Roe vs Wade. In looking ahead, we must be attentive and proactive to what kind of society we will be and what kind of government we will choose. Do we want a culture of life, one which is responsible in protecting the rights of human beings whose dignity and worth depend not on their convenience to individuals or their utility to the state but on their inherent value from and to God and to those individuals and families who choose to love them? Beyond just a matter of personal choice, the right to life is a foundational determinant and safeguard for all basic (“unalienable”) human rights, individual freedom, an enduring moral order, and stable self-government. And, it will continue to define who we are – individually and as a nation.

December 2019 Lottery Ticket Sales Over $43 Million In Arkansas

by Chris Daniel Lottery ticket sales in Arkansas during the month of December 2019 totaled $43,169,925.50 according to a report recently released by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration Office of The Arkansas Lottery. The highest sales for any county in the state were in Pulaski County and totaled $7,932,542.50. The lowest sales for any county were in Montgomery County and totaled $29,872.00. Sales in Polk County totaled $180,298.50. According the the Family Council, only fourteen cents of each dollar will actually make it to a student

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January 22, 2020

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EIGHT ARKANSAS COMMUNITIES RECEIVE WATER AND WASTEWATER PROJECT FUNDING

SAVE BIG! With

Thrifty Thursday Coupons 7:30 AM on Thursdays by walk-ins and telephone calls to

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE MULTI-MEDIA 1168 Hwy 71 S. Mena, AR 479-243-9600

you can currently SAVE S BIG at these participating businesses

Chiquita’s • Mena Spine & Rehab • The Shop Baywash Car Wash • Branson Show Tickets

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Commission approved funding for water and wastewater projects in eight Arkansas communities on January 16, 2020 as follows: The City of Bono in Craighead County received a $447,549 loan from the Arkansas Water Sewer Solid Waste Fund to extend the wastewater collection system to serve 17new customers. Central Arkansas Water in Pulaski County received a $6.05 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund for consolidation of the Paron-Owensville Water Association with Central Arkansas Water. This project will serve 940 customers. The City of Huntsville in Madison County received a $309,000 loan from the Arkansas Water Development Fund to build a new water storage tank to serve 1,202 customers. The Jefferson Samples Dexter Water Users Association in Jefferson County received a loan of $700,300 from the Water, Waste Disposal and Pollution Abatement Facilities General Obligation Bond Fund to construct a new well. The number of customers served by the project is 1,100. The City of Palestine in St. Francis

Image by Lisa Runnels

County received a $351,333 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund to replace 701 faulty meters. The project will serve 699customers. The City of Siloam Springs in Benton County received a $30.1 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund to make improvements to the existing water treatment facility. Customers served by the project total 7,492. The Tri County Regional Water Distribution District, Pope, Logan, and Yell Counties, received a $800,000 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund to install a third water treatment module at the Hector Water Treatment Plant. This project will serve 8,293 customers. The City of Cave Springs in Benton County received a $4.2 million loan from the Arkansas Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund to connect to the Northwest FOR ALL OF YOUR Arkansas Conservation Authority for sewer treatment. Customers served by the LOCAL NEWS AND EVENTS project totalFIND 1,887. US ONLINE AT

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“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Cast Announced; Rehearsals Underway

Ouachita Little Theatre has combined with University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain to bring William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” to the stage in Mena. Directors Robby and Gini Burt are excited to bring this classic comedy to life with assistance from local talents such as Costumer Jane Buttermilk, Stage Manager Makayla Kenyon-Ortiz, and Sound Technician Brenden James. Burt, the Humanities Instructor at UARM states, “It is a humbling experience to direct a play by the most produced playwright ever, and yet our cast and crew is very excited about the project and we look forward to giving it our best try.” Considering the experience of his cast and crew, this is sure to be a highlight of the theater season. Cast is announced as follows: Scotty Jenkins – Theseus, Jackie Biard – Egeus, Richard Gilbert – Lysander, Jaimesan Biard – Demetrius, Larry Kropp - Philostrate, Will Hose – Bottom, Morgan Richmond – Snug, William McClain – Flute, Larry Kenyon – Quince, Jessie

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January 22, 2020 Townzen – Starveling, Michael Lickly – Snout, Julie Moe – Hippolyta, April Burt – Hermia, Nalu Pruitt – Helena, Mike Moe – Oberon, Alyvia Wooden – Titania, Alexa Night – Puck, Angelina Moe – Peaseblossom, Tia Moe – Mustard Seed, Danielle Wallstrom – Cobweb, Anna Burt – Moth. Fairies will be played by Gabriel Lickly, Miranda Burt, Alexis Hilderbrand, Heather Hilderbrand, and Robby Burt. Attendants are played by Ann Glenn, Marvin Glenn, and Stephanie Tapley. Rounding out the technical Crew is Jocelyn Biard and Abby Baker on lighting, and Mia Goforth and Andrew Wallstrom on the stage crew. This play will be produced at the Ouachita Little Theatre on the weekends of February 21-23 and again on February 28-March 1. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees are at 2:30 PM. Advanced tickets with reserved seating are available at the OLT office Monday through Friday 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Tickets will also be available at the door. Season ticket holders can use their ticket at the door or trade it in for a reserved seat. There will also be a special performance for students at area schools on February 27 and 28.

Polk County Births

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January 10 – January 17, 2020

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Misty & Anthony Karr of Norman, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Jan. 16th

The department would like to congratulate Captain Tom Hairston for being MFD's 2019 Firefighter of the Year.

Lindsey Wright & Michael Scantling of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Jan. 16th

Attractive home on almost 1/2 acre of fenced in yard in town. Deck, and outside storage galore with under-carport storage in the 2 car carport. Extra large den at back of house is a perfect media room. Wood burning insert and a whole wall of storage. Beside this is an office area with separate entrance. Three bedrooms 2 baths, dishwasher, pantry, even an intercom system! Good home at a great price! MRE #5298 MLS #19005846 www.nancywright.biz/crm19005846 $120,000 #5316 Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bath brick home with a 20 X 40’ metal shop (RV height) and a 2 bay wood frame shop. Remodeled in the last 4 years. CH/A plus a wood fireplace. Double corner lot. Extra landscaping. Very clean and well maintained. Motivated Seller. $155,000.00

Mena Regional Health System Luz Copley & Joshua Heifner of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Jan. 13th

Impeccable Custom Design staggers the senses in this 4 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath, Southern Plantation. Located on 20 acres in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, the estate amenities include formal living & dining rooms, gourmet kitchen and informal dining, family room with fireplace, sun room, guest room w/bath, study/game room, master suite with his and hers walk-in closets and heated flooring the bath, 2 additional bedrooms w/bath, exercise/bonus room, utility, pantry, small in-house shop/ garden center, 2 car garage, detached 2 car garage/shop, whole house generator, in-ground pool, sauna, fully fenced garden with raised beds and protective mesh wire, perimeter fencing with coded, wrought iron gate system, extensive landscaping, and more. Mountain Views. MRE#5370 MLS#19032586 $929,000

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#5363 LAKE HOME Set on the veranda and enjoy the view of the pretty yard and Lake. Well designed and arranged home with formal living room with gorgeous fireplace with built in shelving, formal dining room. Den/family room just off amazing kitchen with tons of cabinetry, center work island with gas range, double ovens and large pantry with roll out drawers. Screened porch just off family room, and covered back patio. Master bedroom with 2 walk-in closets, jacuzzi tub and BR’s and 3 ½ BTHS, and is 3060 sq ft. double vanities. Home has 4 BR All on 4.39 acres in Lake Mena subdivision. Priced at $375,000. Teamsmallwood.BIZ/19029265. TEXT 9453 to 46835 for Visual Tour.

www.MenaRealEstate.com

obituaries Peggy Lou Phillips Peggy Lou

Phillips, age 94 of Mena, passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2020 in Mena, Arkansas. Peggy was born in Cove, Arkansas on November 30, 1925 to the late William Ambrose Hensley, Sr. and the late Lotus Nettie Henderson Hensley. She was married to Ray Phillips until his passing. Peggy was a friendly people person and enjoyed being a greeter for Wal Mart until she was 85. She always had a smile for everyone she met. Most of all she loved her family and especially her grandchildren. Peggy was a member of Christ Community Fellowship Church. She was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-greatgrandmother, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed. She is survived by: her son Steve Phillips and wife Kathy of Mena, Arkansas, and her daughters Cynthia Lou Buchanan of Mena, Arkansas, and Mitzi Peters and Ray Allen of Mena, Arkansas. Her brother Hugh Hensley and wife Shirley of Jacksonville, Arkansas, also her sister Pat Fite of Athens, Georgia. Sister-in-laws: Joan Thomas of Mena, Arkansas and Tillie Hensley of Louisiana. Brother-in-law Sidney Phillips of Texarkana, Arkansas, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Also by her grandchildren: Brian, Brandon, Amy, Mandy, Brandy, Billy, Ashley, Sarah, Jamie, and Angela; Twenty-six great grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren, and two on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lotus Hensley, husband Ray Phillips, brothers Kirby Hensley, Sess Hensley, W.A. Hensley Jr., Bert Hensley, and Bart Hensley, and a grandson: Joshua Phillips. The Funeral service was Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at CCF Church in Mena with Brother Lance Sawyer officiating. Interment followed in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation was Friday, January 17, 2020 at Beasley Wood from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Pallbearers were Brian Peters, Brandon Peters, Billy Sockey, Brent Sockey, Cauy House, and Hunter Johnson.

January 22, 2020

Leon Millard Ryals Leon Millard Ryals, aged 89, passed away January 16th, 2020, at his home in Mena Arkansas. He was surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 15th, 1930, to Hugh and Era Ryals at

Highland Arkansas. Leon and Mary Elizabeth Philpot were joined in marriage on September 9, 1954, and enjoyed 65 years together. He was a member of the National Guard, a logger, and then drove an oilroute for Mena Oil and Tire Co. for many years, making many friends along the way. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping with family and friends. Leon Ryals is survived by His wife, Mary Ryals from Mena, AR, and his son Mike Ryals and wife Roxanne, from Bella Vista, AR, also his daughter Terri Kenyon from Mena; his brother Clayton and wife Nona Ryals from Lockberg, AR; Grandchildren: Levi and wife Deborah Ryals, Shawna Ryal, Billy and wife Julie Clark, Michael Clark, Anthony and wife Laura Clark, Alexis Clark, and Matthew and wife Anne Ryals; 9 Great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, and many friends. Leon was preceded in death by his parents: Hugh and Era Ryals, his son Stan Ryals of Mena, AR, brother Gene Ryals, an Infant baby brother from Mena, AR. Also his sisters Willa Howard, Civilene Ford, and brother in law Fred Ford. Mr. Ryals requested no public service. Interment will be at a later date.

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Patsie Ruth Knapp

Patsie Ruth Knapp died in Tulsa on Tuesday, January 14, at age 83, in the presence of family. She has gone to join her beloved husband of 62 years, Jim Knapp, in the great hereafter. Born in Okemah, Oklahoma on October 1, 1936 to George Clay and Audrey Indianola Robertson, she is survived by her sister Billie Moore, of Haleyville, her sister Linda Marshall, who lives in Florida, and one brother, Earl Robertson, of Wewoka. Three sisters and a brother preceded her in death: her beloved Adolphine, known as Dot, Frankie, Nola Marie, and a brother, Charles. She is survived by two children, Tim Knapp and Terri Abel, six grandchildren: Brian Norman, Shealynn Murrell, Derek Abel, Nathan Knapp, Lindsey Knapp, Bethany Knapp, and nine great-grandchildren. Patsie attended Butner High School, Seminole Junior College, and East Central University. On December 17, 1955, she married Jim. She was a longtime teacher at New Lima Elementary School, where she could frequently be spotted as scorekeeper at high school basketball games coached by her husband. In 1979 she and Jim moved to Smithville, in Southeast Oklahoma, where she taught at nearby Watson Elementary. She was an enthusiastic supporter of the New Lima Falcons, the Smithville Braves, the Watson Tigers, and, while her son Tim was playing baseball at OSU, the Cowboys. She took Jim’s side in pulling for OU in football, however. During the last three decades of her life she was an active member of Octavia Baptist Church, and surrounded by her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. She loved taking long fishing trips and road trips with her husband, Jim—their last lengthy one, in 2012, took them all the way from Oklahoma, across the western continental United States, up the Alaska Highway across Canada, and back. She and Jim also took cruises to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean with her grandchildren and daughter, Terri. Every year, even after they’d both retired, they attended the State Tournament in Basketball in Oklahoma City, until health concerns ended their traveling days. She documented the life of her family and the trips she took with them in photograph after photograph. She loved to get out on the road with her man.

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Funeral services will be held at Octavia Baptist Church, Saturday, January 18. Visitation at noon, service to follow at 1pm, and a meal to be held afterward.

Annie Muriel Whisenhunt Hendrix

Annie Muriel Whisenhunt Hendrix, 93, of Shady, met her Lord and Savior on January 17, 2020 after suffering and surviving two heart attacks. She was born in Shady, Arkansas to Joseph D. and Effie C. Lawrence Whisenhunt, the last surviving child of five siblings. She was preceded in death by her husband Paul, her parents, an infant brother, sisters and brothers-in-law, Gertrude and Hubert Cox and Josephine and W.C. Bailey and brother Edward R. Whisenhunt of Louisiana, who was to be buried on the day of her passing. She was married to Paul Hendrix for 43 years and bore four children who survive her, sons D. Gene Hendrix and wife Vicki, E. Dean Hendrix and wife Ilene, J. Danny Hendrix and wife Elizabeth(Beth) and daughter Annita Hendrix all of Polk County, Arkansas. Miss Muriel was a daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and devout Christian. She leaves 12 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and friends to celebrate her life. She will lie in state at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home, Mena, Arkansas until January 20, 2020, at 2p.m. when she will be transported to New Hope Baptist Church at Shady for final services with Brother Danny Minton officiating. Miss Muriel will be laid to rest in Shady Cemetery beside her husband and amidst all the family members who welcomed her Home. Pallbearers will be Bryon Hendrix, Jason Hendrix, Travis Hendrix, John Harrison, Elgie Evans and Travis Philpot. Honorary pallbearers are the rest of her family who she loved wholeheartedly and her church family of New Hope Baptist Church.

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Amos Monroe

Miller

Amos Monroe Miller, age 41, of Cherry Hill, Arkansas passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2020 at his home. He was born on Monday, August 21, 1978 to Danny Lee and Patricia Jean Powell Miller in Mena, Arkansas. Monroe as he was known by family and friends was a man of faith and love for family. He enjoyed deer hunting, going bass fishing and cooking. He manufactured his own BBQ Smoker and was known for his cooking of all kinds of different meats. Monroe worked for MSBI and was a machinist by trade. Monroe was a loving husband, son, stepfather, “Big Brother”, grandfather, uncle and a great friend and will be missed by all who knew him. Monroe is survived by his wife, Sandy Miller of Bella Vista, Arkansas; his parents, Danny and Jeanie Miller of Cherry Hill; two step sons, Travis and Lendel Arnold of Bentonville; three brothers and sisters in law, Adam and Kaylee Miller of Ardmore, Oklahoma, Hoss and Becky Miller of Mena and Daniel and Amber Miller of Emory, Texas; two sisters and brothers in law, Emmylou and Antonio Trujillo of Morelia, Mexico and Hannah and Walker Rapp of Hackett, Arkansas; four nieces and nephews, Gacxil Trujillo of Cherry Hill, Antonia Trujillo, Slate Trujillo of Morelia, Mexico and Brandi Miller of Ardmore, Oklahoma; three grandchildren Kade Arnold, Reese Arnold and Canaan Arnold all of Bentonville; several other nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held Thursday, January 16, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at the Noble Learning Center in Cove, Arkansas with Brother Steve Squires officiating. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. FIND UP-TO-DATE

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January 22, 2020

Richard James “Emanouil” Davis

Richard James “Emanouil” Davis, age 63, of Mena, AR, passed from this life at 6:25 A.M. Tuesday, January 14, 2020, at Conway Regional Medical Center in Conway, AR. He was born on Monday, February 13, 1956, to Christy and Dorothy Emanouil in Lowell, MA. Richard loved the Lord with all his heart. He attended St. Agnes Catholic Church and was a member of their Knights of Columbus chapter. He owned The House Doctors for many years specializing in room additions and remodels. Far more than a carpenter, Richard was an artist and master craftsman, as many can attest. Those gifts and passions led him to open Architectural Salvage by Ri-Jo which he owned and operated for the past fifteen years. He took great pride in those businesses he built and found joy in the creative outlet they provided. Richard was a loving husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and great friend guided always by his faith and devotion to his beloved wife, Joan. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Richard is preceded in death by his brother, David Emanouil. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Joan Davis of Mena, AR; a daughter, Terri Carter of Huntsville, AL; a son, Tim Blacke and his wife Tammy of Hulbert, OK; his parents, Christy and Dorothy Emanouil of Bridgton, ME; two sisters: Dawn Bell and her husband Robin of Naples, ME, and Lisa Forsythe and her husband Charley of Porter, ME; eight grandchildren: Jennevieve Scott and her husband Shawn of Moore, OK, Christian Hill of Oklahoma City, OK, Caleb Hill of Midwest City, OK, Alix Marley of Owens Cross Roads, AL, and Colten, Seth, Aaron, and Abigail Blacke of Hulbert, OK; six great-grandchildren: Noah, Kyler, Gracie, Ava, Henry and Easton; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at 10:00 A.M. at Saint Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, AR, with Fr. Joseph Shantiraj officiating. Interment will follow at the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Mena, AR. A Rosary service will be held Friday, January 17, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family

Funeral Home Chapel in Mena. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, AR.

Linda LaVera Crane

Linda LaVera Crane age 73 of Cove, Arkansas passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2020 in Texarkana, Texas. Linda was born on September 15, 1946 in Salem, Oregon to the late Fredrick Rollie Nunn and the late Chrystal Irene May. She was married to William Del Crane and was a loving mother to five children several step-children. Linda was a professional upholsterer, she was very active woman who enjoyed being an artist, seamstress, truck driver and a waitress. Linda was a woman of many other talents. Above all she loved and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to all who knew and loved her. She is survived by: Husband: William Del Crane Her five children: Steven Schantz of Arbuckle, California Scott Schantz of Fallon, Nevada Sherman Schantz and wife Janie of Gridley, California Stacey Wren of DeQueen, Arkansas Shelley Crane and husband Steven of New Boston, Texas Step-children: Theresa Lance of Mena, Arkansas Stanley Plumley of Cove, Arkansas Tonya Heard of Mena, Arkansas Tammy Rowe of Dangerfield, Texas Michael Crane of Texarkana, Texas Twenty-four grandchildren and twenty-six great grandchildren and several brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Daniel Meade, Frederick Charles Nunn, Melvin Ross Nunn and Roger Lewis Nunn, a niece Christina Nave and son Robert Wren. Family and friend visitation will be Sunday, January12, 2020 at Beasley-Wood from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Memorial will be planned at a later date. Services were arranged under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

7 obituaries Ramona L. Taylor Mrs. Ramona L. Taylor age 79 of

Mena, Arkansas passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2020 in Mena. Mrs. Taylor was born December 12, 1940 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Fobin Jim Bain and the late Grace Olene Adams. She was married to Jeffrey Taylor until her passing. Ramona graduated high school in 1958 from Mena and was a Beautician by profession. She was loving wife, mother, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed, She is survived by: Husband: Jeffrey Taylor of Mena, Arkansas Sons: John Cash Cates of Hackett, Arkansas Jefferson Lea Cates of Dallas, Texas Mrs. Taylor was sent to University of Arkansas for Medical Science.

Edward Ray

Whisenhunt

Edward Ray Whisenhunt, 90, of Shreveport died January 13, 2020 at Overton Brooks Veterans Hospital after a long illness. Whisenhunt was an Army veteran of the Korean Conflict and a Purple Heart recipient. He was born in Mena, Arkansas to Joe D. and Effie C. He was unmarried throughout his life and was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother and sisters and brothers-in-law, Gertrude and Hubert Cox and Josephine and W.C. Bailey and Paul Hendrix all of Polk County, Arkansas. He is survived by sister Annie Muriel Hendrix of Mena, numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Whisenhunt was an electrician by trade and worked for Sears Roebuck and Company for years before working in the racing/casino industry prior to retirement. Whisenhunt will lie in state at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport, Louisiana until January 17, 2020 at 2 p.m. when he will be laid to rest near his parents and other family at Shady Cemetery in Mena, Arkansas with Brother Danny Minton officiating. Honorary pall bearers will be nephews, Gene Hendrix, Dean Hendrix, Danny Hendrix, Gary Cox, James Cox and nieces, Annita Hendrix, Joanne Cureton, Patricia Wood and Judy Fairless.

Obituaries are

available online at

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Patricia Ruth Brown

Patricia Ruth Brown age 89 of Octavia, Oklahoma passed away Sunday, January 19, 2020 at her home. Ruth was born September 10, 1930 in Octavia, Oklahoma to the late Herbert William Smith and the late Beulah Mae Hilton Smith. She was married to the late George C. Brown, Jr. Ruth was a homemaker, and her primary interests were caring for her children, her husband, her grandchildren, and anyone else she could help. She was also a woman of many skills, including planting trees for Weyerhaeuser, substitute teaching, traveling as a gospel singer, teaching Sunday School and publishing short of pieces of writing. Ruth was a loving mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, great-great grandmother and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by all. She is survived by: Sons: Cooper Brown and wife Sue of Honobia, Oklahoma David Brown and wife Glenda of Ludlow, Oklahoma Jeff Brown and wife Linda of Octavia, Oklahoma Mitch Brown and wife Felecia of Octavia, Oklahoma Kevin Brown and wife Susie of Glen Allen, Virginia Chris Brown and wife Sheila of Rattan, Oklahoma Patrick Brown and wife Sarah of Octavia, Oklahoma Daughter: Brenda Johnston and husband Delano of Octavia, Oklahoma Twenty grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren Funeral service will be Saturday, January 25, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Octavia Baptist Church in Octavia with Brother Ed Rogers officiating. Interment will follow in the Octavia Cemetery in Octavia, Oklahoma under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Pallbearers will be her sons and sonin-law, Delano Johnston. Visitation will be General regular hours will apply 8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m .until Thursday and Friday where we will be open until 8:00 p.m. Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

January 22, 2020

mypulsenews.com

Shelter Insurance® Foundation and Telissa Montgomery sponsor local high school scholarship This 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 20 states via a network of local insurance agents and headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

Mena’s Benny Weston was recently recognized as Superintendent of the year and gave his acceptance speech and charge to the audience at the recent AAEA 2020 Superintendent Symposium. Closing the event was Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson who spoke to the state superintendents.

High School Basketball

The visitors from Nashville took a pair of senior contests in Mena Friday night as heard live on KQOR 105.3. The LadyCats fell to the Scrapperettes 46-29 to fall to 7-10 on the season, and 2-2 in conference play. The boys action went into overtime before Nashville squeaked out a 43-41 victory. Mena led at the half 23-19. The game was tied at 38 at the end of regulation. The Scrappers outscored the Bearcats 5-3 in overtime to escape with the

two point win. The Bearcats are 3-11 on the year. Acorn swept Gurdon in senior high action Friday night. The Lady Tigers rolled to a 66-51 victory, while the Tigers outlasted the Go Devils in boys action 44-37. Murfreesboro took a pair from Cossatot River Friday night. The Lady Rattlers turned back the Lady Eagles 41-32, while the Rattlers slipped past the Eagles 37-34 in boys action.

Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing TIRES BRAKES CUSTOM EXHUAST SHOCKS & STRUTS Hours: Mon.- Fri. 8 am - 5:30 pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

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394-1938

MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE OWNER - JASON MILES

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January 22, 2020

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Graduates Honored at SAU’s 2019 Fall Commencement

MAGNOLIA, AR (01/16/2020)-- Nearly 600 students were honored with undergraduate and graduate degrees at Southern Arkansas University’s Fall Commencement ceremonies on Friday, December 13, 2019. Students from this area include the following: Kadden Ross Crawford from Mena, AR. Crawford graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in University Studies from the College of Liberal and Performing Arts.

Brooke Sharay Bates from Mena, AR. Bates graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in University Studies from the College of Education. Adrianna Elizabeth Wolfenbarger from Mena, AR. Wolfenbarger graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Business Management from the Rankin College of Business. Zephrey Tyler Harvey from Mena, AR. Harvey graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Science from

JESUS CHRIST AND HIM CRUCIFIED I Corinthians 2:2

“And I, when I came to you, brothers, came not according to excellence of speech or of wisdom, announcing to you the mystery of God. For I did not know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (I Cor. 2:1,2). The crucifixion of Jesus Christ defies understanding. We write it, preach about it, teach about it, talk about it, but that doesn't begin to explain it. The apostle Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20). He experienced the cross. So must we. Paul lived in a world that placed a high premium, a high value on human wisdom and the excellency of speech. These values influenced their worship greatly. Consequently the Corinthians worshiped many false 'gods' and 'goddesses.' The Gospel of Jesus Christ, “Christ and Him crucified” would not be the easiest message to preach to them. But that is exactly what God called Paul to do, and Paul did it. And he was able to win many Corinthians to faith in Jesus Christ. Unique in all the world is the message of the Christina faith. Christianity is not based on the “wisdon of words or excellent speech,” but solely on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. “But we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling black, and to Gentiles foolishness” (I Cor. 1:23) We live in a time and place where science and technology and electronics dominate the scene. And many in our culture just don't have time for or interest in, the simple story of a “crucified Christ.” “Religion,” yes, OK. Crucifixion? No. And yet Christ said “if any man would come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his CROSS and follow Me” (Mt. 16:24). Many in our culture are attracted to a Christianity without a cross. And, in reality, it doesn't exist. The world and all of its false “gods” and false “religions” stand in opposition to “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” There is no “gospel” without “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” This is the certain and sure foundation of all that Christianity is. Yes, the Christian faith contains morality, values, blueprints for life and much more, but everything must come from this fundamental Truth. “Christ was crucified” is the single most important phrase in the Bible, and, indeed, in all of the world. Without His death on the cross we would never experience that love of God. Without His death there would be no forgiveness of sin. Without His death there would be no life beyond the grave. In crucifixion Jesus, the Lamb of God, took our judgment upon Himself. Because of what he did we can be forgiven of our sins and made clean in the sight of God! There is no other way but this. None at all. The most important moment in all of history was summed up in the words of Jesus when He cried out 'why have You forsake me' (Mt. 27:46). Because in that moment God the Father put the judgment of our sin upon His sinless Son. The whole world became dark in those moments. The Bible tells us that in those moments, “He became sin for us who knew no sin, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (II Cor. 5:21). Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, became sin and when He died the power of sin was forever defeated. Only God could do it, only God understands it, but, understanding or not, we can believe it, we must believe it. And as a result of His death and resurrection we need not die in sin! His righteousness was transferred to us in that moment when our sin was transferred to Him. And that by Faith in Him alone! Amen.

the College of Science and Engineering. Charlotte Ann Keeler from Cove, AR. Keeler graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education. Becky Marie Hooper from Mena, AR. Hooper graduated with a Master of Arts in Teaching degree in Teacher Education from the College of Education. A total of 595 SAU students received their degrees this fall. 102 candidates graduated from the School of Graduate Studies and 493 undergraduate candidates were recognized from SAU’s four academic colleges, with 36 students grad-

uating from the Honors College. The commencement speaker for the day was 2019 Honor Professor, Dr. Kenneth Green, LeMay Professor of Management and Technology at the Rankin College of Business. Southern Arkansas University “feels like home” with faculty and staff dedicated to student achievement and success, both in classes and online. With traditional and unique academic degree programs ranked nationally for quality and affordability, SAU offers the complete college experience to prepare students for success in the workforce.

The Stockpile Thrift Store Matt & Tori Stockton Owners

(479)216-8000 (479)216-9223

479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344

Facebook - The Stockpile Thrift Shop 700 4th Street Mena, AR

Thurs-Sat 9am-5pm

RE-ELECT

ROBBY HINES

WITH 14 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE

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MENA SCHOOL BOARD

POSITION #2 Political Ad Paid for by Robby Hines

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January 22, 2020

mypulsenews.com

Mannon Hails George Washington During James K. Polk DAR Meeting Story by:Cortez Copher ~ Photos by: Kay Dye This month’s speaker for the James K Polk Chapter NSDAR was Mena’s own Joe Mannon. The subject was Washington and American Democracy.” After giving many reasons why George Washington could have become an unknown man because of bad health. Mannon spoke of the strengths of Washington, including how he could bend horseshoes with his bare hands, and also how he was able to keep his compo-

sure in face of adversity through self-control. A memorable example of this happened at the end of the American Revolution when the officers asked the Continental Congress for relief of financial distress caused by the war service and inflation. There was no money to grant the request for half pay for life so the officers threatened not to disband when the Treaty of Paris was signed, but would march to the west if war continued - leaving the Continental Congress with no army. General Washington, hearing of this, met with the officers and resolved the conflict.

SECOND ANNUAL

The new Ruth Gray was inducted as American nation was a new member into the James saved by K. Polk Chapter the one man who could DAR. Newly elected officers have killed it. Washington are: Regent, Cortez Copher; could have 1st Vice-Regent, ridden in on his white Ann Garrett; 2nd-Vice Rehorse, seized gent, Leighanna power, and established Guillet; Recording Secretary, a military Dotty Kinnun swearing in Ruth Gray into the Daughters Brenda Cunningrule, but he of the American Revolution with chaplain, Jane Simmons. ham; Treasurer, believed Secretary, Era Looney, is in background. Shelly Collins; that military Registrar, Dotty power must always be subordinate to civil authority. When Kinnun; Historian, Angel Ward; and Chaplain, serving as the Chairman of the Constitutional Linda Craig Evans. The next meeting will Convention, Washington led the delegates to be February 20, in the Polk County Library establish the three branches of governmentat 6:30 p.m. Ladies interested in becoming legislative, executive and judicial, which we a member of the Daughters of the American must protect for a balance of power in our Revolution are invited to attend. For informagovernment. tion, contact Dotty Kinnum, Registrar- 479Mr. Mannon’s conclusion was that Wash437-3111 or Cortez Copher- cortezjcopher@ ington was a great man because he saved our yahoo.com. democracy.

County’s Top Spellers Compete The county’s top spellers poured through the doors of the Ouachita Center on the Mena campus of UA Rich Mountain Tuesday, January 14, for the chance to earn the coveted Polk County Spelling Bee champion title. The event is co-sponsored by the DeQueen/Mena Educational Co-Op and Union Bank of Mena and hosted annually on the campus of UA Rich Mountain. Each student begins at their grade level and the first place winner then advances on to the next grade to compete. “We applaud the efforts of all of these students and the amount of time they have obviously committed to compete at this level. It’s always a privilege to have them on our campus and we appreciate all of the efforts from everyone at the Co-Op each year as well as the continued support of Union Bank to truly make this such a memorable event for these students,” said UA Rich Mountain Chancellor Dr. Phillip Wilson. 1st grade – 1st place: Rajesh Dandikar, 2nd place: Lilly Arender, 3rd place: Brody Ward

2nd grade – 1st place: Amelia Espinola, 2nd place: Adelyn Barton, 3rd place: Channing Wimberly 3rd grade – 1st place: Drew Mabry, 2nd place: Amelia Espinola, 3rd place: Lindsey Munoz 4th grade – 1st place: Ayden Dong, 2nd place: Shooter Davis, 3rd place: Jaylie Brantley 5th grade – 1st place: Ryan Jiang, 2nd place: Adileni Herrera, 3rd place: Ayden Dong 6th grade – 1st place: Ryan Jiang, 2nd place: Brandon Dong, 3rd place: Lacy McEntire 7th grade – 1st place: Bradley Harwood, 2nd place: Yennette Tecson, 3rd place: Elijah Smith 8th grade – 1st place: Shantal Tecson, 2nd place: Kenzie Daniels, 3rd place: Jocelyn Biard

January 22, 2020

mypulsenews.com

Mena Bearcats of the

Player

GAME

Presented By

This weeks Comfort Center Home Furnishings Players of the Game is #20 Grayson Fairless & #10 David Grenier. Congrats Grayson & David! Enjoy those pillows!

#20 Grayson Fairless and #10 David Greiner

Pillow Presented by Stacy Ward of the

Comfort Center Home Furnishings

906 B Gillham - Mena, Arkansas 71953 479-234-8556 www.mycomfortcenter.com

Queen Wilhelmina State Park PROGRAMS, TOURS & ACTIVITIES Friday, January 24 - Saturday, January 25 Friday, January 24

Wonder House Tour 2:00 pm 30 min Wonder House Do you ever wonder what the Wonder House is about? Join Park Interpreter Melissa and step back into history to see one of the first vacation homes built in the 1930s. Arkansas Symbols 3:00 pm 30 min Hearth Room Do you know the symbols of Arkansas? Join Park Interpreter Melissa and find out our state drink, cooking vessel, bird and much more! Pinecone Birdfeeders 7:00 pm 30 min Hearth Room Join Park Interpreter Melissa to make a pinecone bird feeder. This fun filled craft will make your back yard birds sing with delight as they chow down on their homemade birdie buffet!

Saturday, January 25

Reservoir Hike 11:00 am 1 hour 15 min Reservoir Trailhead Join Park Interpreter Melissa on a hike to what used to be the old water system for the 1898 hotel. Wonder House Tour 2:00 pm 30 min Wonder House Do you ever wonder what the Wonder House is about? Join Park Interpreter Melissa and step back into history to see one of the first vacation homes built in the 1930’s. Winter Walk 3:00 pm 1 hour 15min West side of the Ouachita Trailhead Join Park Interpreter Melissa and enjoy a serene winter walk on top of the mountain to catch a glimpse of the changes the season brings with it. This will be an easy hike for all ages.

Pick up a BIG GAME SQUARES game sheet beginning January 11th from one of these sponsors: SEARS HOMETOWN STORE ALLBAUGH'S FLORIST DON'S EZ PAY FARM BUREAU INSURANCE PAPA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

CLARICE'S ROOM OF HOPE MOUNTAIN VIEW CLINIC J&A TRUSS AND LUMBER CHIQUITA’S STEWMAN’S FLOWERS

Then listen to 104.1 KENA for the BIG GAME SQUARES sounder between 6AM and 6PM. If you're the correct caller with the right name in the square then your name goes in that square. On January 31st between 8:30 and 9AM the AFC and NFC squares will be drawn. The winning square will be determined by the final score of the big game on February 2nd. If it's you then you'll win $500!

mypulsenews.com

January 22, 2020

01.22.20

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 01.15.20

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Oscar is ready to be yours! He has that wow factor! Gorgeous Siamese points, Blue eyes, and Snow white boots! Celebrate Oscar's Birthday in September (09/14/2019). He is good with kids and cats. You'll be the winner when you bring home Oscar! All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption. ALL ANIMALS AT HSO ARE SPAYED/NEUTERED AND ARE CURRENT ON THEIR VACCINATIONS PRIOR TO ADOPTION.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

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Thursday, January 23rd

• 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 368 Polk Road 50.

• 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/Polk County will meet at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Sue Cavner at (479)2345844 or Linda Rowe at (479)234-2575 for more info. • 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Good Vibes Art Day at the Mena Art Gallery. All mediums welcome, from fiber art, painting and crafting. Open to public. • 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open. • 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Salvation Army Family Store helps families with utilities. • 4:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Meeting at the ABC Club at 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479)216-4606 or (479)243-0297. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Education Wing, West End. Call (479)2342297 for more information. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479)216-4606 or (479)2430297. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn, next to The Crossing Church.

Friday, January 24th

• 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 368 Polk Road 50.

• 12:00 p.m. – PCDC Board of Directors will meet in the MRHS Conference Room A. • 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn, next to The Crossing Church. • 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. – Hatfield Auditorium Country-Western Dance

January 22, 2020 Admission is $6 and 50/50 drawing. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479) 216-4606 or (479) 243-0297.

Saturday, January 25th

• 8:00 a.m.- 10:00 a.m. Cossatot Senior Center will be having their monthly breakfast • 10:00 a.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Men’s Meeting – ABC Club, across form Chopping Block, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena – (281)387-0400. • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 368 Polk Road 50. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Highway 71 North, Acorn.

ist Church, Mena. Everyone is welcome. • 6:30 p.m. – Mena Community Choir practice at the First Methodist Church. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479) 216-4606 or (479) 243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn, next to The Crossing Church. • 7:00 p.m. – Mena Elks Lodge meeting. All Elks are invited to attend.

Tuesday, January 28th

• 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardener Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena.

• 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479) 243-0297 or (479) 216-4606.

• 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. The written portion of the drivers test will be given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority, and as long as road conditions are optimal the driving portion of the test will be given.

Sunday, January 26th

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

• 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479)216-4606 or (479)2430297. • 3:00 p.m. – Worship Service is held at Sulpher Springs Church.

Monday, January 27th

• 12:00 - 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Highway 71 North, Acorn. • 6:00 p.m. - Clarice’s Room of Hope group gathering will be held at 403 North Morrow St., Suite C, Mena. • 6:00 p.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 meeting at Limetree Restaurant. Meeting follows meal. • 6:00 p.m. – We The People Tea Party meets at Papas Mexican Restaurant. • 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Method-

• 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 368 Polk Road 50. • 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. • 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. – Polk County Housing Authority Community Room live country and gospel music. • 6:00 p.m. – The Marine Corps League - Herbert A Littleton Detachment 1261 will meet at New China Restaurant, Mena. For more information, call Commandant Anderson (281) 387-0400. • 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. – Hatfield Jam Session at the Hatfield Auditorium. All musicians /singers and listeners welcome. Refreshments served, cookies or finger foods accepted. • 7:30 p.m. – Mountain Meadow Masonic Lodge #218 will meet at the Hatfield Lodge.

calendar

• 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. (479) 2342887 or (479) 234-3043.

Wednesday, January 29th • 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. – Shepherd’s Closet open at First Baptist Church 4802 Hwy 71 S Hatfield, AR 870389-6412. Accepting and distributing clothing/usable household items/and nonperishable food items.

• 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 368 Polk Road 50. • 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. – Mena Art Gallery Art Group meeting. • 12:00 p.m. - The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Mena. • 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open. • 5:30 p.m. – Dinner at Christ Community Fellowship followed by services at 6:15 p.m. services for Youth, Children’s Activities, Young Adult and Adult Bible studies. • 5:30 p.m. – Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Bible Study Service. • 6:00 p.m. – Warriors for Christ will meet at the Southside Church of God. • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Highway 71 North Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Highway 71 South, Mena. (479)216-4606 or (479)243-0297

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Arkansas Farm Bureau Celebrates US-Mexico-Canada Agreement LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Farm Bureau celebrated Thursday’s Senate passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement (USMCA), ratifying an update to the country’s largest agriculture trading partners. When fully implemented, USMCA is expected to add $2.2 billion to the amount of agricultural and food exports to Canada and Mexico. The agreement is expected to provide a $65 billion increase in gross domestic product. “It’s about time we have this agreement ratified,” said Rich Hillman of Carlisle, president of the Arkansas Farm Bureau. “Passage of USMCA will help stabilize the marketplace and will allow the United States to focus efforts on other important trade agreements around the world. Agriculture provides more than $20 billion annually to Arkansas’s gross state product, with roughly one-third of production from Arkansas designated for the export market. “On the heels of the U.S-China trade agreement signed on Wednesday, this marks consecutive agreements that will benefit Arkansas farmers

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January 22, 2020 and ranchers,” Hillman said. “Anything that benefits Arkansas agriculture also benefits our state’s tax base and, ultimately, the Arkansas economy.” The agreement will provide new market access for American dairy and poultry products while preserving the zero-tariff platform on all other ag products. Mexico and the United States have also agreed that all grading standards for ag products will be non-discriminatory. Additional provisions enhance science-based trading standards among the three nations as the basis for sanitary and phytosanitary measures for ag products, as well as progress in the area of geographic indications. The agreement also includes measures that address cooperation, information sharing and other trade rules among the three nations related to agricultural biotechnology and gene editing. Implemented in 1994, NAFTA removed barriers to intraregional trade, including agricultural products traded between Mexico and the U.S. and most agricultural products traded between the U.S. and Canada. Agricultural exports from the U.S. to Canada and Mexico have increased from $8.9 billion in 1993 to $40 billion in 2018. The USMCA agreement was signed by the three countries in November of 2018. The implementing bill for the USMCA was sent to Congress on Dec. 13, 2019. USMCA passed the House on a 385-41 vote on Dec. 19, 2019.

CLASSIFIEDS - HELP WANTED - SERVICES Brodix, Inc.

is accepting applications for a technical/phone sales position. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, answering technical inquiries, providing product information and recommendations, troubleshooting with potential and current customers, and processing orders in a fast-paced office setting. Parts, automotive, and computer experience would be helpful. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitiv starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T020520

Teaching Chinese languAge, also translations, Chinese Cuisine, Acupressure, Kung Fu, and Five Step Fitness Boxing. $15 per session. 580-306-3381. T12920 Handy Man Services interior painter and other repairs, Plumbing, and electric, Call Bill Duff: (479) 216-5204. T11520

- FOR SALE -

2008 Pink Chrysler Sebring Hard Top Convertible, $7,000. New Front tires, Battery. Under 75,000 miles. Custom seat covers. Excellent condition. Call 2340575. T12220

8 foot leer camper shell for bed of truck. Great for camping and keeping things dry. Gray w/ red pin strip. Feathered taller at rear. Front and side sliding glass windows, like new: only $875. T12220 Excellent 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home with ½ acre, a/c, fenced yard, and all appliances, south Mena suburns, $550/month (479)577-2578

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

479-394-7301

1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

Now Open On Fridays Mon - Fri 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

January 22, 2020

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Grants Awarded for Wildlife Education and School Conservation Programs ey to help improve wildlife education by purchasing educational materials, materials for the creation of indoor and outdoor habitats, lab supplies, and field trips to AGFC nature and education centers. Conservation districts use the funding to help promote wildlife conservation awareness in the communities by hosting environmental education days and fishing derbies for children of all ages. “The Wildlife Education program enhances educational opportunities by getting kids out of the classroom and opening their eyes to the world around them,” said Mike Preston, AEDC Executive Director and Secretary of Commerce. “Education is the foundation of a strong economy, and we are excited to be a part of a program that makes learning fun for kids while promoting volunteerism and community involvement for all ages.”

Outdoor education plays a vital role in understanding the need to encourage a more viable existence for Arkansas’ youth, according to AGFC Chief of Education Tabbi Kinion. “By understanding habitat and resource management, we hope to develop a connection between the state’s youth and our wonderful natural resources,” she explained. Some schools’ projects funded in part by the grant include gardening supplies and equipment, materials to build a beaver dam, birding supplies, recycling bins for recreational areas, and supplies for science labs and outdoor classrooms. For more information, including a complete list of award recipients and program narratives, visit www.ArkansasEDC.com/ Rural-Services.

IN PRINT, RADIO & ONLINE

December 2019 Lottery Ticket Sales Over $43 Million In Arkansas

Charlotte Weddle caught this heart-warming shot of Gabby at rest. our

hare y Please set photo at p te favori

The Polk County Pulse 1168 Hwy 71 S - Mena, AR 71953 or email news@mypulsenews.com

And count on me to help. When it comes to affordable, reliable health, dental and vision insurance plans, there are two names you can count on: Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and LaDon Copelin. For more than 65 years, Arkansans have looked to the Cross and Shield for health plans to fit their health and budget needs. And, as an Arkansas Blue Cross Agent, LaDon Copelin can advise you on the plan that’s best for you and your family.

2303 Fairgrounds Road Mena, Arkansas 71953

(479) 394-5947

FIND YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Gabby

MPI 3362 1/15 R102019

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission Division of Rural Services has awarded grants totaling $444,230 to promote wildlife education and improve school conservation programs to 164 schools, school districts, and conservation districts in 70 Arkansas counties. The grant program is funded by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) through fines collected from hunting and fishing violations. Only money collected in the county where the violation occurred may be used as grant funds for that county. All schools in the state are eligible to participate in the program. The funding schools have received in previous years has helped create and maintain archery, fishing and competitive ts programs. Schools also use the mon-

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Soliciting agent for Arkansas Blue Cross, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Plans available only to residents in Arkansas.

January 22, 2020

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The 31 Annual Mena FFA Alumni Consignment Auction Saturday February 1, 2020 st

R A I N 10 AM Polk County Fairgrounds O R Consigned items can be checked in on Friday, Jan. 31 from 9am-5pm E N I H S ANYONE CAN BUY ANYONE CAN SELL st

NO BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PREMIUM! GET YOUR ITEMS CONSIGNED EARLY!!

To consign items, please call:

Â Â? Â? Â?Â?Â Â Â&#x20AC; Â&#x201A; Â&#x192; Â Â?Â? Â&#x20AC;

Call Today to Consign Items! ITEMS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

Wood Cook Stove, Various Rolls of Fence Wire and Posts, 8â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Section Iron Fence, 140 Gal. Rubber Water Tub, Assorted Rolls of Electrical Wire, Claw Foot Tub, Assorted Plumbing Fittings, Pex Pipe, New Bronze Insulated Windows, Old Wooded Window Frames, Used Door Units (Interior/Exterior), Stainless Steel Sinks, Vanities, New Cabinets (Base/Overhead), New 12â&#x20AC;? Portable Planer, Skillsaws, Drills, Electric Tools, Folding Chairs, Oak Chair, Old School Desk, Barbell Weights, 2 Sets of Ramps, 2 Tow Bars, Assorted Bicycle Tires/Wheels, Antique 2-Wheel Cart, Antique Wooden Barrel, Assorted Yard Tools, Smokers, 2 Water Well Tanks, Stainless Steel Broadcaster/Spreader, Unused Antique Roll of Wood Slatt/Wire Fence, Heavy Duty Metal Cart on Castors, and Much Much More!

Please call Brian Erickson: 479-243-7512 or Donny Roberts 479-216-2833 Consigned items can be checked in on Friday, January 31st from 9 am to 5 pm CO-SPONSORED BY MENA - HATFIELD - WICKES

MEMBER

479-394-2211