January 24, 2017 by The Pulse

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January 24, 2018

THE POLK COUNTY

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Supreme Court Ruling Sparked by Local Case BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com A debate that began with a local case was the beginning of a ripple effect that concluded with a ruling by the Arkansas Supreme Court last week that Arkansans do not have the right to ﬁle a lawsuit against the state. The ruling was handed down in a - decision by the high court. The case began with a lawsuit against what was then Rich Mountain Community College. A former bookstore manager at RMCC, Matthew Andrews, sued the college seeking CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Jury Sentences “Unrepentant” Drug Dealer to Lengthy Term BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com A Polk County ury rendered an 80-year sentence to a Mena man last week following his conviction in Polk County Circuit Court on drug related charges, sending a strong and clear message to other dealers in the area that law abiding citizens want to see an end to the drug epidemic that grips every community across the nation. Michael Thomas Rethore, age 9, of Mena, was a self-admitted drug dealer, according to police reports, and will now spend up to the ne t eight decades behind bars for his offenses.

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City of Mena Names New Parks & Recreation Director PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDY PHILPOT G-A-R-D-E-N-I-A HAS NEVER SMELT SO SWEET as it did for Cossatot River 8th grade student Laura Flores, when she claimed the prestigous honor and ra in ri hts as the ounty’s top speller y spellin that ord orre tly. complete listing of all of the grade winners along with photos is available on pa e 13 and online at MyPulse e s. om.

BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com The City of Mena named their new Parks and Recreation irector on Monday. John Stubbs has been hired to take on the multi-sport complex and manage operations at McMillan Pool. Previous director, athan Fowler, worked his last day in ecember before beginning his newest venture. Stubbs comes with more than a decade of e perience in the same industry, running a park much like Tapley in a Mississippi town for 1 years, including overseeing the athletic

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Sheriff Sawyer Serves as Sociable Senior Speaker

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Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer served as guest speaker at the most recent meeting of the Polk County Sociable Seniors, a group for those ages 50 and up that meet monthly for a luncheon and fellowship with their peers. Sawyer spoke on a variety of topics. The group is led by Diane Mathis, who encourages anyone over 50 to attend. They eat, laugh, and welcome newcomers like they have been there all along. For more information, contact Mathis at 479-243-0191.

MRHS Emergency Nurses Awarded for Care of Stroke Patients S

everal nurses of the MRHS Emergency Department were recently recognized by AR SAVES for outstanding performance and lasting contributions to stroke care in Arkansas in 2017, with each receiving the Excellence Award. Outstanding nurses awarded were Ha Le, RN; Abby Wheeler, RN ( both pictured) and Emily Turner, RN and Collin Krause, RN ( not pictured) . “The nursing staff at MRHS Emergency Department are trained in life saving stroke care,” said Sonya Maye, MRHS Marketing/ Public Relations Specialist. MRHS was one of the first hospitals in Arkansas to participate in the telemedicine based AR SAVES ( Stroke Assistance Through Virtual Emergency Support) program in 2008. “Arkansas has one of the highest stroke rates in the nation and AR SAVES provides our hospital and our community with the peace of mind to know that we have the ability to contact a stroke specialist anytime, day or night, 36 5 days a year. MRHS recently treated a patient in their 30s for an acute ischemic vertebrobasilar artery bilateral cerebellar stroke with great success, and it was the first ever in Arkansas. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and be fast,” Maye explained. If you are experiencing balance difficulties, eyesight changes, facial weakness, arm weakness, or speech difficulties, call 911.

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Cossatot River EAST Students Develop Virtual Trail Tours Poultry Producer news@mypulsenews.com Registration Open C BY MELANIE WADE •

ossatot River School istrict’s AST class is determined to make waves, of the good sort, through the development of pro ects that benefit SUBMITTED the masses. Their latest of such is a virtual reality he Rich Mountain Conservation District tour of area trails for those unable to actually walk wants to remind poultry producers in the trails. AST stands for nvironmental and Spathe area about registering their operations tial Technology, and is a constantly expanding area at the local office. If ou Are a Polk County that has many facets for students to learn about Poultry Producer who owned or operated and develop upon, and encourages students to use poultry feeding operations that housed 2,5 00 what they learn to benefit their community. birds or more any time in 2017, you are AST facilitator, mily uckabey, said, iving required to register your facility at the local in a very rural area such as ours means that there Rich Mountain Conservation istrict office are several nature trails to hike and e plore. It’s in Mena between January 1 and March 30, a very fulfilling e perience for many people in 018. our community, but what about those that are not Producers can also register their facility at physically able to walk the trails For that reason, the annual Producers’ Meeting Chili Supper we wanted to give anyone access to the trails year that will be held on February nd. round without actually having to be there. Information about your facility will be upuckabey e plained that their AST program dated at that time. There is a 10 registration partnered with the Cossatot State Park Rangers to fee. Rich Mountain Conservation istrict is create virtual tours of their trails. The technology located at 08 th Street and is open Monwe used for this project was the 3D Vista Virtual day Friday from 8 am until 30 pm. CRHS EAST Students Alex Jenkins, Taylor Fortner and Jennifer Esquivel-AmaTour program, 3 ista osting Service, Theta S dor work on Phase 1 of their virtual trail project at Cossatot River State Park. 3 0 camera, and Oculus Rift. Through this pro ect, we learned that it’s all about trial and error if something doesn’t work, be persistent until you do find something that does work. It helped us to reali e that things aren’t always as hard as they seem, and that anything can be completed through hard work, creativity, critical thinking and A rich tradition of hard work, family, taking care of each other and persistence. AST programs across the state are teaching students the latest technologies that a life well lived in the Ouachita’s makes our communities a great place they then implement into real projects, changing their perspectives and their communito live. And, Union Bank of Mena is proud to play its part. Feeding the ties. A pro ect presented by Cossatot River AST last April by students was a mapping team on Fridays, parade floats and sponsoring little league, we’re app that local emergency services could use to e pedite response times. Faye Wilkinproud of our tradition of community involvement. It’s also our tradition son and Rylee Stevenson presented their developments to Polk County Judge randon llison. to lend financial support and services through the long standing The app works almost like Google arth. The MS or fire department would be able relationships we have with our customers. to pull up the address they were given and see what the house looked like, the length of the driveway, and other things that would help, said Wilkinson. ook for more on AST’s developments in future editions of The Pulse, including where you can take your first virtual tour of the trails.

January 6, 2016

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Veterans Serving Veterans

BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com

olk County is full of generous people those who quietly give to others, whether donating money, paying a utility bill for their neighbor, or pulling their sleeves up following a disaster to help wherever needed. Polk County is also blessed with many veterans who served their country well and chose to call the area their home afterwards. When you combine the two, a servant and generosVeterans Don Fretz, left, and Eddie Cross, center, laugh with fellow veteran Bill ity, you are blessed Stokes while visiting him at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation. with people like ddie Cross and on Fret . oth men served their country in the military and both men now spend their days generously serving others. ddie Cross is a member of multiple veteran’s organi ations, including the FW eterans of Foreign Wars , and there are few souls more precious. on Fret is a member of the A isabled American eterans , and he too e hibits qualities found too far in between these days. One of the many qualities that make the pair of friends so precious is their unwavering support of fellow veterans, especially those who are conﬁned to their homes or a nursing facility. very Wednesday, ddie and on visit Rich Mountain ursing and Rehab to visit with veterans at the facility. Some are bedbound, others won’t wake up, but still yet, they go in, ask if there’s anything they can do for them, take notes, and do their best to meet any request given. Others are up and waiting every Wednesday for the visit and are more than e cited when they see them appear at the door. We’ve been visiting them every Wednesday for four years, said on. ddie chimed in, We started on our own. A lot of the veteran patients don’t have visitors, so we come visit them. ddie also e plained that if the patients have problems or we notice something, CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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Tilley Announces Intent to Run for Mena Mayor SUBMITTED

on Tilley conﬁrms he will run for the position of Mena Mayor in the ovember 018 election. is desire is to build upon the strengths of this city and the successes of others. Tilley states, Serving the residents of Mena for almost two decades has increased my awareness to the needs we face but has also taught me how to turn those problems into solutions. Tilley is a current City Council Member, City Planning Commission Member and Pastor of Mena First Assembly of God. According to Tilley, eadership is developed ﬁrst out of a heart of servanthood. I have consistently maintained that belief which has enabled me to build strong leaders. Tilley also states that, The calling to serve is greater than ever in my life. I reali e that the calling that God has given me is not limited to a building but to all people.

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HSO Announces New Board; Hosts Ceremony to Celebrate New Cat Habitat

Committee for Growth in Polk County SUBMITTED

In an effort to generate local positive economic growth, the Committee for Growth in Polk County (CGPC) is currently petitioning for a ‘local option election’ in 2018. The local option requests that an election be held to authorize the sale of beer, wine, and liquor in Polk County. The CGPC investigated two counties in Arkansas that recently voted for local option, Little River and Clark counties. Each county had a significant increase in sales taxes and business growth after the counties were able to sell alcohol. Further research revealed that wet counties attract more businesses and jobs than dry counties, and the median home value in wet counties in general is higher than in dry counties. [U.S Census Bureau Quickfacts] Both counties reported a decline in DWIs. These counties also recorded fewer alcohol related deaths, no increase in crime and no increase in littering. “Polk County has had at least five establishments serving alcohol for years and the next logical step is to open up the entire county for sales,” said Gar Eisele, Chairman of the CGPC. The CGPC recognizes that as the state of Arkansas continues to grow, Polk County plays an important role in the overall well-being of the state’s economy. “Our county competes in the 21st century economy and seeks to become an even more attractive place to live, work and play. The sale of alcohol will add to our competiveness in attracting businesses, tourists, and people looking for a place to live,” Eisele added.

QUESTION AND ANSWER

The Humane Society of the Ouachitas elected new board members at their most recent meeting. The new board is pictured from left, standing: Tina Ball, Dannie Bregman, Sheila Theriot, Deni Westphal, and Neal Fosdick; seated: Carolynne Sizemore, Cheryl Murphy, and Jane Crowder.

he 2018 Board Members of the Humane Society of the Ouachitas were elected at the January 18 meeting held at the Limetree Restaurant in Mena. Five of the eight elected ran unopposed serving in officer positions and have one to twelve years of service on the board offering experience and wisdom with their leadership. Three of the eight elected, Jane Crowder, Carolynne Sizemore, and Deni Westphal, as dedicated volunteers, are new to the Board this year, bringing new insight and energy. Tina Ball, serving her 12th year as volunteer Shelter Manager, is currently the Board Member with the most years served, followed by volunteer Secretary Cheryl Murphy beginning her 11th year. Outgoing President Michael Povey, having volunteered for HSO in a variety of positions over the last 9 years, to include Board Member at arge and Cruelty- eglect Officer, as well as SO’s Radio-thon organizer and host sponsored by KENA Mena radio, praised Tina for her dedication. He credited Tina for having the vision, gumption, and the most impact on boosting HSO towards a positive future with regards to applying for and receiving grant funding for special projects and programs including spay-neuter for low income pet owners, the canine transport program, new construction and renovation of the e isting shelter building and grounds, upgrading the office operations technology, raising shelter operations standards, raising community awareness, and seeing a steady increase of a record number of animals served, especially in the past year. Up by 15 7 animals served since 2016 , the total number of pets in need served by HSO in 2017 was 76 1. As Shelter Manager, Tina is a hands-on person, often volunteering as much as 40 or more hours per week. She hires, trains and manages the shelter employees, fills in shifts from employee absences, has written operations policies and created needed forms, responded to emergency calls for animals in need, conducted weekend adoption events, rolled up her sleeves to clean kennels, fed and walked the dogs, and played with the cats. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Q: Why do you want Polk County to vote for the sale of alcohol? A: Every Arkansas county we have studied shows the sale of alcohol has given a boost to economic growth. Polk County is losing tens of thousands of dollars in taxes to citizens buying alcohol elsewhere. Alcohol sales in Polk County makes us competitive in attracting tourists, businesses, and those who want to relocate to Arkansas. Everyone has a right to vote on this issue. Q: What is the estimated Economic Impact? A: Based on a formula developed at the University of Arkansas we can project an economic impact on a county of 20,000. We can expect a County Tax revenues of $41,000, City Tax revenues of $66,000. Property taxes on package stores is estimated to be $6,000 a year. Additional labor income $500,000 a year. An estimated total economic impact for Pollk county is $1.2 Million a year. Q: Won’t there be a bar on every corner? A: No. Only restaurants and hotels can serve on-premise alcohol and the city will have to call a separate referendum election to a determine if that can happen. One exception to that is “private clubs” that are all ready in Polk County. Q:Will church groups appose the selling of alcohol in Polk County? A: Some but not all churches will appose the sale of alcohol. Q: Won’t this make it easier for some to abuse the use of alcohol? A: If someone wants to abuse the use of alcohol they will, and we cannot stop that. Presently people drive many miles to purchase alcohol and law enforcement reports show some of those trips result in accidents and worse. Q: Doesn’t the sale of alcohol increase the crime rate? A: Arkansas Counties that have approved alcohol sales since the year 2000 have shown that crime does not increase. Q: Can we expect DUI’s to increase in Polk county? A: Records in Clark, Randolph, and Little River Counties show that DUI’s did not increase and in some counties alcohol related accidents and deaths decreased. Q: How many Package Stores will there be in Polk County if we vote yes? A: One package store can be built for 5-thousand people in the county. Polk County can have four stores based on a population of slightly over 20-thousand. Q: Don’t you believe the sale of alcohol is an immoral and corrupting influence on our youth? A: Speaking from personal experience, I grew up in a town that was wet. I don’t view myself as immoral or corrupted. But to answer your question. Parents not alcohol have the greatest influence over their children on the subject of morality. Q: Won’t litter increase with the sale of alcohol? A: Look at the litter on our county roads and highways between here and Oklahoma. Other counties report no increase in litter, but we expect the litter on those county roads to decrease. Q: Can liquor stores open next to schools and churches? A: Arkansas lawmakers have established regulatory buffer zones that insulate schools and churches. Q: Won’t property values drop when alcohol is sold in the county? A: All counties surveyed that have passed local option since 2000 show no drop in property values.

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Veterans

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they contact the Veterans Affairs Department. “But they are all treated real nice here,” he said. “All the help down here does a real good job.” The pair also visit Mena Manor and Peachtree Assisted Living as well. At each facility, they walk in with a list of names, and as each one is visited, they marked them off. If a patient has been sent home, they take note of that and re-arrange the list. “We also visit on their birthdays, no matter what day it is,” said Don. Nell Weems is one such patient who delights in their weekly visits and bragged extensively on the birthday gifts they brought her. “They are wonderful and they take such good care of me,” said Nell, with a huge smile. She served in the United States Air Force as a nurse during the Berlin Crisis in the 195 0’s. Bill Stokes, an Air Force Veteran, also enjoys the visits. “They bring me my Pulse every week so I don’t have to go to the front to get it,” he explained. Nell Weems, a retired Air Force Nurse, enjoys visits from Cross And it’s not just the veterans that appreciate the and Fritz. She appreciates their company. A sewing circle takes place at Rich Mounefforts and loves the gifts they tain Nursing each week and many times, the pair are bring her. She is shown with a recipients of their projects. “We sewed quilts for Eddie picture from her military days and Don,” smiled Bonnie Gibbs, Activity Director of the while serving during the Berlin facility. “We appreciate them.” Crisis. The men said the DAV Auxiliary also visits on occasion and make name tags, door plaques, and wreaths for the veterans in the facilities. Upon visiting each veteran, Eddie and Don make their way to the front where Gibbs takes their list and sends it to Veteran’s Affairs where the pair gets credit for their volunteer hours, although that is not the reason they continue the mission. As the pair headed out the front door, the smiles on their faces might lead one to wonder whose blessing is largest, the visitors or the visitees. If you would like to become involved in veterans activities, there are several organizations in the area including the VFW, DAV, American Legion, and the Marine Corps League Detachment. All have meetings monthly and welcome veterans readily. Those meeting dates can be found in the Pulse’s weekly calendar of events in each edition or online at MyPulseNews.com.

January 6, 2016

Court Ruling

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE overtime pay. RMCC is now under the umbrella of the University of Arkansas and carries a new name, University of Arkansas – Rich Mountain. The college sought to have the case thrown out in circuit court citing ‘sovereign immunity’ - a legal doctrine by which the sovereign or state cannot commit a legal wrong and is immune from civil suit or criminal prosecution. Sovereign immunity is included in Arkansas’ constitution in Article 5 , Section 20, which states, “The State of Arkansas shall never be made a defendant in any of her courts.” However, that was changed in 1996 by the state’s high court when they reversed that and began allowing laws to pass with exemptions to sovereign immunity, opening up the door for suits like Andrews’. His particular case stemmed from the Arkansas Minimum Wage Act, on which the justices of the court ruled last week. Originally, the circuit court, the ﬁrst court to hear the Andrew’s case, declined the request leaving the college to appeal to the Arkansas Supreme Court. In the appeal, the Supreme Court found the laws to be incompatible with the state’s constitution and dismissed the suit entirely. Governor Asa Hutchinson commended the ruling and assured citizens that there are other ways to hold the state accountable, particularly the state’s Arkansas Claims Commission, which was created in 195 5 .

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HSO

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Incoming President Neal Fosdick rolled up his volunteer sleeves as well, spending the past year taking the lead position in ordering, setting, and remodeling the new “Cat Habitat” building, installing new fencing to create the new kennel areas and a variety of other hands-on chores, including making basic repairs and maintenance needed on the old shelter building. “Every volunteer’s help is deeply appreciated. HSO is only as good as its volunteers. Such dedication of its volunteers is exactly what has brought HSO to this wonderful place of existence,” stated A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the Humane Society of the Ouachitas in celebration of their new Cat Habitat on Saturday, January 20, 2018. The Murphy. “HSO will be celebrating its 40th HSO has been a part of the community for 40 years and continues to expand anniversary this June. What HSO is today ays to enefit the furry friends of Polk County. is a tribute not only to the organizers and volunteers of yesterday and today, but also to those who regularly and generously donate to the cause. The good people of Polk County and their friends who continue to give, keep the well from running dry. Grant monies have funded the growth, but the steady donations from generous caring individuals and businesses are the heartbeat of the organization. HSO would not be alive today without the people who keep giving to pay basic bills. HSO is truly an icon in our community. HSO’s service to the animals is also a service to the people of Polk County. The new Board is excited to see what the new year will bring, and HSO is looking amazing as it begins its 4th decade of service.”

MRHS iCare Department of the Quarter SUBMITTED

Mena Regional Health System recently named Med/ Surg as the iCARE Star Department of the Quarter. The department was presented a plaque to be displayed on the iCARE Wall of Fame, a traveling trophy, and a pizza party. Pictured from left to right: Jay Quebedeaux, CEO; Angela Cunningham, LPN; Sara Short, LPN; Teresa ise Chief ursin ffi er isa ood Med ur and ICU Director; Terah Lee, RN; and Chandler Cox, Human Resource Director.

W HA T W O U L D J E S U S D O ?

Sometime back the initials WWJD became so popular that we saw them on t-shirts, bracelets, and in almost every store. Just months later we seldom see them anywhere. Fads have a way of coming and going, sometimes rather quickly. And so it was with those letters. For those who may not remember, the letters stood for “What Would Jesus Do?” Good question. And if we could find the answers and if we then would apply them it could make a significant difference in our lives, individually, and in our culture. But the fact of the matter is that in order to possess such knowledge as this, one must do more than wear a bracelet or a T-shirt. Good ideas, good thoughts, must always be followed closely with good actions, or the ideas die. This one, though it may have had good intentions, has died. Like all other fads it came and it went away. So what happened? It was good, was it not? Every good idea must have real substance in it in order to survive. In this particular idea there must have been the possibility of knowing what He would do, and then there must have been the possibility of doing it. WWJD could not survive long-term because it did not provide the dynamic required for the doing of it. And in this “ p op -cul ture Christianity ” there simply is not the knowledge of what He might do, there is not the real motivation to keep it going, and, there is not the strength that is needed. In almost any situation where the question is asked there will be one answer after another. Ideas about Him and what He might do are not enough; there must be a certain amount of objective reality. And many “Christians” in this time and in this culture simply do not have the knowledge of the only Source to know what He might say, and then, what it might mean, how it may apply. Good intentions are not enough. Many of us have seen one fad after another come and go, intentions aside (whatever happened to Promise Keepers?) And we have heard that “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” Misguided “good intentions” have seriously injured, and sometimes even destroyed, lives and families and governments. “WWJD” would never lead someone away for the objective truths of the Bible…never. All of this brings up the question “can we know?” Is it even possible? Yes. But not to the merely curious. To know the Truth about Jesus and how He might respond to the situations of our lives is not a knowledge to be gained casually. The prophet Jeremiah had it right: “You will seek Me, and when you seek Me w ith al l y our heart you will find Me.” This has never been amended. And this kind of “seeking” seems to be a bit rare in this time and place. Those who are truly wanting to know what Jesus would do are those who spend hours and hours in intensive study of the Bible. Simply reading it will not do, neither will a few minutes at our convenience. The command is to “study” and that goes far pas the picking up of the Bible and reading a few verses! Many “read” who do not even come close to real “study” of the Word. God will give understanding, but not to the casual “ read er. ” God will give understanding to those who seek to know for Godly reasons; not to those who simply want to impress someone with their knowledge of the Word! My name is Gene Stacks and I approve of this message. So, WWJD? T HI S A D P U RCHA S E D B Y G E NE S T A CK S

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Drug Dealer

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Rethore was arrested on September 23, 2016 on a multitude of drug related charges when the Mena Police Department served a search warrant at his home. Rethore was eventually charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with the Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms. Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner praised the efforts of Mena Police Officer Ronnie Richardson, whose investigative skills led to the defendant admitting during the interview process that he had been dealing drugs in Mena for the last seven to eight years. “He is an unrepentant drug dealer,” said Riner. When the arrest warrant was served, police found marijuana, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, a loaded gun, and approximately $ 8,000 in cash. “He admitted that about half of that money came from selling drugs,” said Riner. Mena Police Chief randon Martin said, Any drug dealer we take off the street helps the community - the less product available on the street, the less it’s in town. We work hard everyday to keep drugs out of our community. I’m really pleased that the ury sent a clear and precise message that they are tired of it. I think they sent the message that dealing drugs in our community will not be tolerated. Martin also gave high regards to his team and the prosecutor’s office. Andy did a great ob presenting the case and our officers did an outstanding ob working the case. Rethore is a first time offender. e will serve three consecutive sentences on the charges 0 years each for the drug charges and 0 years for the simultaneous possession charge. The ury recommended the sentence and each term is set to run consecutively, totaling 80 years behind bars. At minimum, he will serve one-si th of the drug charge sentences and one-quarter of the simultaneous possession charge, equaling at least 1 years. Rethore was immediately remanded to the Polk County etention Center awaiting transport to the Arkansas epartment of Corrections where his sentences will be served. Polk County’s message is a stark contrast to what is happening in neighboring states, specifically Oklahoma. Just over four grams of methamphetamine were found in Rethore’s home when he was arrested. In 01 in the state of Oklahoma, laws changed the amount of drugs that warrant a felony charge, making most small possessions simple misdemeanors. The state changed the law to help combat overcrowding in prisons. Although the laws are still being debated and it varies by county, it would take an amount equal to trafficking around 0 grams of methamphetamine or knowledge of the intent to sell or distribute the drugs for an arrest to be made. In Rethore’s case, intent to distribute was recogni ed however, had it not, it’s possible he would have been charged a misdemeanor and set free under current Oklahoma legislation. In Arkansas, he received a much harsher sentence.

Parks Director

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

activities that were offered. It’s a God thing, said Stubbs, who applied and persistently checked on the position. I’ve been here for three years, my wife has been here for seven years. CMA brought us here.” Mayor George Mc ee said they received a large stack of applications, including Stubbs’ and interviewed two qualified candidates. e’s going to do a great ob for us, said Mc ee. Stubbs’ e perience includes overseeing the same sports included at Tapley Park baseball, softball, and soccer. e was also an umpire in Mississippi for more than two decades. I like serving people and I like to provide the best we can. My goal is to see the park be productive, not ust for the kids that come and play, but to actually be productive and see the money that people are spending out there, that they see a return on that, to see it grow and benefit the city. In Mississippi, he proudly said, that the participation numbers in their athletic programs rose from 3 0 children to over 00. e attributes that success to great parents that are involved. I’m ust the veseel that’s there to help. When you get the parents involved and teach the kids how to respect the playing fields and get involved. They gain respect for the area and are proud of it.” e also wants to make sure that more than ust the players and parents have a good time. Whether it is a grandparent or ust someone that wants to watch a little ball. There’s a lot of people that grew up playing ball and they don’t care who’s playing, they ust want TAK E S TE PS TO A B RI G H TE R FU TU RE ! to watch a game. That’s my ideal, we want to make sure the kids are safe, they have a E ARN Y OU R G E D ! fun time, but anybody else that comes, that they also have an experience they will reFRE E CL AS S E S S TARTI NG I N member. We want to make sure that everyone that comes there has a good time and it’s a place they want to come back to. Y OU R ARE A NOW!

January 6, 2016

For more information, visit: www.uarichmountain.edu/adult-basic-education

U A Rich Mountain Adult E ducation L ocations: Polk County - (479) 394-7622, 2309 1100 College D rive, Mena, AR Montgomery County - (870) 867-5264 31 I ndustry D rive, Mount I da, AR Scott County - (479) 637-5502, 4014 4 56 West 6 th, Waldron, AR U A Rich Mountain is an E qual Opportunity/ Affirmative Action I nstitution Ad paid with funds from D ept. of Career E ducation, Adult E d D ivision

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1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

obituaries

. January . . . . . . . .24, . . . 2018 .................................................................................................................... Weekly Publication

TED RAY COON

Ted Ray Coon, age 84 of atﬁeld, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday January 17, 2018 in Mena, Arkansas. Mr. Coon was born on July 1 , 1933 in Weatherford, Te as to the late Richard Coon and May Myrl Stoker Coon. e was happily married to orris Padgett Coon for twenty-nine years. Mr. Coon owned and operated several lectrical istribution companies as a profession. e was a member of CMA since its beginning and loved all makes and types of motorcycles. He had a strong Christian faith and enjoyed witnessing for the Lord. One of his wishes was that people pray for the ation of Israel and the peace of Jerusalem. e was a loving and kind husband, father, step-father, brother, and friend. e will be dearly missed by all. e is survived by wife, orris Coon of atﬁeld, Arkansas sons, Teddy Ray Coon, Jr. of oltom City, Te as, Jerry Coon and wife Regina of Ozark, Arkansas, radley Coon of oltom City, Te as, Flynn Coon and wife Rhonda of Wickes, Arkansas, enny Williams and wife Tammy of artman, Arkansas, Rob Williams and wife Anna of Springdale, Arkansas, aniel Williams and wife Amy Jo of Ft. Smith, Arkansas daughters, Janet Martine and husband Manuel of oltom City, Te as, elle Foster and husband elly of Chesapeake, irginia numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren brothers, Tony Coon and wife Linda of Fort Worth, Te as, ill Presley of Fort Worth, Te as special friends, Robert Taylor

Locally owned & operated 479-394-1310

611 Janssen Avenue Mena, AR 71953 BeasleyWoodFuneralHome.com

Caring for your family since 1928

and wife ida of Te as, Allen Winkley of Cove, Arkansas and companion, is dog Goldie. e was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Richard Coon, and sister, etty Fae Presley. Mr. Coon was sent for cremation under the direction of the easley Wood Funeral ome of Mena.

DEBORAH DONAHEY LONGEST eborah onahey Longest, age 6 4 of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, January 16 , 2018 in Mena. eborah was born on January , 19 3 in San Antonio, Te as to John onahey and illie McCaskey onahey. She was in the new homes insurance business by profession. eborah was a dedicated member of The Art Gallery, teaching kids art classes. She en oyed crafting and was an avid movie and music trivia buff. eborah was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to all who knew her. She is survived by sons, Michael Roser of ouisiana, Aaragon Markwell and wife Malinda of Southbend, Washington daughters, Su anne ickson of andervoort, Arkansas, Jennifer Clark and husband Jason of Pine Prairie, ouisiana grandchildren, Ryan Weems, athryn Watkins and husband Adam, Carolyn ickson, Tony ickson, Jr. and wife Tonya step-mother, illian onahey of eakey, Te as step-sisters, Patricia, Janice and Mary. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Paul ongest, a brother,

dwin ubba McCray, sister, Cindy oenig, sons-in-law, Tony ickson, Sr. and Carl Weems. Memorial service was held Saturday, January 0, 018 at 10 00 a.m. at easley Wood Chapel with rother Reggie Fryar ofﬁciating. Mrs. ongest was sent for cremation under the direction of the easley Wood Funeral ome of Mena.

CHARLIE LEOY SLATER Charlie eoy ig ad Slater of Mena, Arkansas went to be with his ord Monday, January 1 , 018 surrounded by his family, in ittle Rock, Arkansas. Charlie was born June , 19 3 in Waldron, Arkansas to Charlie Slater and dna li abeth Mc ntire Slater. Charlie was years old. e adored his precious dog, ittle it and loved to go ﬁshing, hunting, and was the best brisket cooker. e spent many years raising and running hunting dogs. ut more than anything he loved his family and en oyed every moment he had with them all. And his greatest wish was to be remembered. Charlie ig ad Slater leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of 3 short but wonderful years, Gladys Slater, of the home. e is survived by wife, Gladys Slater sister, elen and Jimmy ayden of anville, Arkansas sister-in-law, dith Slater of Waldron, Arkansas daughters, rookie Slater of West Fork, Arkansas, elly and Robert ing of anville, Arkansas, Carla and avid arley of Mena, Arkansas, eAnne and Rick Strother of Mena, Ar-

kansas. Pop will also be missed by his twenty-one grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Grandchildren, Austin and Casey urrow, Cody and Pond urrow, ollie Morrow, akota Morrow, den ing, eather ing, Isabella ombi, Matthew Fleming, Mason Slater, Tasha and J.J. Reeves, rady ewbolt, endra Priddy, ala and akota Strother, Jarred and Anthony arley, rianne and rendon Henry. Great-grandchildren, ryce Reeves, Reese Reeves, Cali ewbolt, unter urrow, Cooper, asen, and Truitt Strother, A ton Priddy, Paityn arley and Raelynn ewbolt. And a multitude of nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Charlie is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and dna Slater, one brother, Toby Slater, and his late wife, Joyce Mercer Slater. Funeral service was held Thursday, January 18, 018, 10 00 a.m. at Calvary aptist Church in Mena, Arkansas with rother Andy Arnold and rother Alvin Rosson ofﬁciating. Interment will follow in amb Cemetery in Waldron at 00 p.m. under the direction of the easley Wood Funeral ome of Mena. Pallbearers will be akota Morrow, Robert ing, Jeremy Wells, Justin ayden, Frankie Inklebarger, ddie ayden, avid arley and Rick Strother. onorary pallbearers will be rendon enry, rady ewbolt, J.J. Reeves, ynn Slater, Mickey Slater, Mark Slater, Cody urrow, Austin urrow, Colby Priddy, akota Strother and Shelton ohlman. General visitation was at easley Wood Funeral ome of Mena.

January 24, 2018

Weekly Publication

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POLK COUNTY BIRTHS

AT MENA

REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Samantha and Ezekiel McPherson, of Mena, are the proud parents of a baby girl, born on January 13th.

#LOL With all the sadness and trauma going on in the world at the moment, it is worth reflecting on the death of a very important person, which almost went unnoticed last week. Larry LaPrise, the man who wrote “The Hokey Pokey”, died peacefully at age 93. The most traumatic part for his family was getting him into the coffin. They put his left leg in. And then the trouble started....seriously....

CUTEST PET PIC B lak ely

BY LEANN DILBECK

Arming Our Children

editor@mypulsenews.com

hildren’s brains are like little sponges that seem to take in every single word and visual around them. And, just when you think they are not paying attention, and let something “slip,” we are quickly and humbly reminded of how keenly aware they always are. The brain’s retention at that age is remarkable. For me, it seems I can remember more from childhood than I can from yesterday! Experiences and principles learned at an early age are rooted deep within our souls, defining who we become and the choices that we will make. And what better content to fill those young, eager to learn, spongy brains than with the Living Word! When you see it in action in their lives as they become older, it is such an incredible blessing. When they are afraid and they begin repeating 1 Timothy 1:7 over and over, or when they feel overwhelmed and pray Philippians 4:13 for strength, or when they begin journaling and dreaming about their future spouse and include Jeremiah 29:11… there are no words for how it eases your mind as a parent to watch them apply God’s truths on their own in their daily lives. When they come home broken hearted and confused and you find them on their bed with their ible open searching for the answer because they’ve come to know and trust that His Living Word replenishes our souls, our hearts and our minds ( Hebrews 4:12) , it gives parents such a reassuring peace. They never knew that verses they once memorized to earn jewels in their crowns that they so proudly pinned to their tiny vests would not return void… better yet, those verses will help to guide their decisions and actions to live the life of a believer ensuring that, someday, those same metaphoric January jewels will return to adorn their promised heavenly crowns ( James 1:12) . 6, 2016 As a family, we have the awesome responsibility of choosing how to invest our children’s time absorbing and learning; arguably the greatest gift you can give your child is teaching memorization of the Living Word. It will literally never return void and will serve as their greatest tool in navigating life… for those times when you aren’t able to be with them… He and His Living Word will be. ( Deuteronomy 6 :6 -7)

Blakely is the 2 year old mini schnauzer of Kammie Sweeten.

Please share your favorite photo of your pet. You may drop it off or mail it to: The Polk County Pulse 1168 Hwy 71 S. • Mena, AR 71953 or email: e.rowell@mypulsenews.com

This week’s Cutest Pet Pic made possible by your friends at:

MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE Lori Johnston, CPA, Manager Bambi Sharp Joseph Sanford, CPA Dottie Hobbs, PA Kelli McCurry Tiffany Bayne Stan Johnston

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SERVICES

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479-216-3072

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school

January 24, 2018

Weekly Publication

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Acorn Preschoolers Honor Officer

rs. Kim and Mrs. Amanda’s preschool class at the Acorn Campus of Ouachita River School District recently honored ORSD-Acorn campus School Resource Ofﬁcer, uane arvey with a handmade card and a gift in honor of ational aw nforcement Appreciation ay. Acorn Preschool irector, im arucci stated that their preschool classes absolutely love Ofﬁcer arvey so they wanted to do something special for him for keeping them safe while at school.

JANUARY 28 - FEBRUARY 2, 2018 MONDAY COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Variety cereal, graham crackers, egg, ham, cheese bagel, fruit, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Beef tacos, chicken burrito, spanich rice, refried beans, fruit, salad bar, milk. HIGH SCHOOL: Choice of pizza. MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Jamwich, assorted cereal, animal crackers, string cheese, diced pears, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Chicken patty on a bun, spaghetti/meatballs, ham chef salad, tater bites, fruit, sack lunch. MIDDLE SCHOOL: Beef burger, spaghetti/meatballs, ham chef salad, french ﬁres, chicken tenders, nachos, tacos, burrito. HIGH SCHOOL: Chicken patty on a bun, spaghetti/meatballs, ham chef salad, french fries, chicken tenders, nachos, tacos, burrito.

TUESDAY COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Variety cereal, graham crackers,mini banana, gogurt, fruit, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: teriyaki glazed chicken, orange chicken, fried rice, steamed broccoli, fruit, salad bar, milk. HIGH SCHOOL: Choice of pizza. MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Chicken biscuit melt, assorted cereal, Scooby grahams, string cheese, fruit mix, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: mac & cheese, fish sticks, beef burger, turkey cobb salad, green beans, sack lunch. MIDDLE SCHOOL: Mac & cheese, fish sticks, spicy chicken sandwich, turkey cobb salad, sloppy joe, tacos, nachos, burrito. HIGH SCHOOL: Mac & cheese, fish sticks, spicy chicken sandwich, turkey cobb salad, beef burger, tater bites, tacos, nachos, burrito.

HHE Encourages “Secret Agents of Math” ’

’ at Holly Harshman are so proud of yan ian said HH staff. yan as the first of Mrs. hite s e ret ents of Math to master his mul tipli ation ta les throu h 12. s a re ard for his hard ork Mrs. hite pre sented him ith a 10.00 ift ard to al Mart.

UA-Rich Mountain Honor Student SUBMITTED BY UA-RICH MOUNTAIN

he Chancellor’s ist for the fall 01 semester was printed in the January 1 , 018 edition of The Pulse, as submitted by the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain. The following is a revision correction to their original press release: oratio, AR Jocelyn alter The original press release listed Jocelyn alter from atﬁeld, Arkansas.

WEDNESDAY COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Variety cereal, graham crackers, pamcake w/ syrup, sausage link, fruit, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Hamburger, chili dog, fritos, corn, sweet potato tots, fruit, salad bar, milk. HIGH SCHOOL: Choice of pizza. MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Assorted cereal, animal crackers, egg, bacon stick, applesauce, string cheese, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Grilled cheese, baked chicken/roll, ham or turkey chef salad, potato wedges. MIDDLE SCHOOL: Grilled cheese, sweet potato fries, beef burger, kickin pintos, assorted sandwich. HIGH SCHOOL: Grilled cheese, beef burger, baked chicken/roll, kickin pintos, sub sandwich, hot dog.

THURSDAY COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Variety cereal, graham crackers, sausage & biscuit, gogurt, fruit, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Chicken alfredo, spaghetti w/ meatsauce, breadstick, steamed vegetables, fruit, salad bar, milk. HIGH SCHOOL: Choice of pizza. MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Breakfast pizza, assorted cereal, string cheese, Scooby grahams, banana, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Chicken tenders/roll, tortilla rice/ bean bowl, popcorn chicken salad, bbq black beans, sack lunch. MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL: Chicken tenders/roll, tortilla rice/bean bowl, popcorn chicken salad, spicy chicken on bun, pizza, nachos, tacos.

FRIDAY COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Variety cereal, graham crackers, blueberry muﬃn, gogurt, fruit, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Turkey & cheese sandwich, mac & cheese w/ ham, steamed carrots, fruit, salad bar, milk. HIGH SCHOOL: Choice of pizza. MENA PUBLIC SCHOOLS: BREAKFAST: Maples waﬄes, assorted cereal, string cheese, animal crackers, diced peaches, juice, milk. LUNCH: ELEMENTARY: Hot dog, pepperoni pizza, ham pizza salad, cucumber/tomato salad, sack lunch. MIDDLE SCHOOL: Beef burger, chicken tenders, ham pizza salad, pizza, nachos, tacos, burrito, mini sub sandwich. HIGH SCHOOL: egg roll/orange chicken, chicken sandwich, ham pizza salad, pizza, nachos, tacos, burritos, mini sub sandwich. This weekly info proudly sponsored by:

GEORGE S. DAVIS STATE FARM AGENT SINCE 1964

Insurance with a name you know STATE FARM INSURANCE624 Sherwood Avenue, Mena, AR 479.394.4521 Res. 479.394.1895

Weekly Publication

Flores Wins County Spelling Bee Hosted by UA-Rich Mountain

SUBMITTED

school

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January . . . . . . . . 24, . . . .2018 ......

n January 16 th, the 2018 Polk County Spelling Bee was held in the Ouachita Center on the main campus of the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain, where Cossatot River’s 8th grade student, aura Flores, won the event spelling gardenia’ as her ﬁnal word. Flores will advance to the State Spelling ee to compete with the top contestants from around Arkansas. Contestants from Cossatot River School District, Mena School District, and Ouachita River School District-Acorn campus in grades 1st through 8th participated in the county-wide event that was emceed by Andy Philpot, Journalism teacher at Mena igh School. The overall Runner-up was Dusty Davis, at 7th grader from Mena Middle School, and placing third was last year’s winner, Reaghan Weddle, of Acorn igh School. First, second third place winners were presented trophies provided by the event sponsor, Union ank. Winners in grades 1st – 8th awarded: 1st Grade: 1st Place: Drew Mabry, Acorn Elementary; 2nd Place: Jacob Smith, Louise urham lementary 3rd Place Avery Singleton, Acorn lementary. 2nd Grade: 1st Place: Cady Minoza, Louise Durham Elementary, 2nd Place: Brody Creel, andervoort lementary 3rd Place rew Mabry, Acorn lementary. 3rd Grade: 1st Place: Ryan Jiang, Holly Harshman Elementary; 2nd Place: Reily Crabtree, Acorn lementary, 3rd Place Clint ennings, Wickes lementary. 4th Grade: 1st Place: Brandon Dong, Holly Harshman Elementary; 2nd Place: Ryan Jiang, olly arshman lementary 3rd Place ailey enner, olly arshman lementary. 5 th Grade: 1st Place: Y ennette Tecson, Holly Harshman Elementary; 2nd Place: Brakiah urk, olly arshman lementary 3rd Place li ah Smith, andervoort lementary. 6 th Grade: 1st Place: Shauntal Tecson, Mena Middle School; 2nd Place: Y ennette Tecson, olly arshman 3rd Place udson acca, Mena Middle School. 7th Grade: 1st Place: Dusty Davis, Mena Middle School; 2nd Place: Shauntal Tecson, Mena Middle School 3rd Place aelin arding, Acorn igh School. 8th Grade: 1st Place: Laura Flores, Cossatot River High School; 2nd Place: Dusty Davis, Mena Middle School 3rd Place Raeghan Weddle, Acorn igh School. “The event’s success is a result of a collaborative effort and focus on the importance of academics by dedicated teachers and students from the area schools, exceptional emcee Andy Philpot, and generous support of their employees and sponsorship of awards by Union Bank,” said organi ers.

January 6, 2016

FOR SALE

Movietown

& All Equipment and Inventory.

Call 479-234-2861 Please make The Cole Team Bold & larger than the address & phone numbers below it. Omit the 800 number and the e-mail address and substitute www.FarrellCole.com instead.

to the Candy In the webMan, address across the bottom, capitalize the M in Mena, the R in Russell Cagle Real & the E in Estate.

MENA REAL ESTATE

Farrell & Sharon Cole

The Cole Team

816 S. Mena St. Mena, AR 71953 Office: (479) 394-5000 www.FarrellCole.com www.MenaRealEstate.com

Williams Medical Clinic, L.L.C.

Dr. Robert S. Williams, M.D. All Major Insurance Accepted 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953

479-243-9024

New Patients Welcome

. . January . . . . . . . .24, . . . 2018 ...................................................................................................................

Thursday, 1/25 • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 10:30 a.m. – Gator & Friends will be performing at The Mena Senior Center. • 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/Polk County will meet at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Sue Cavner at 234-5844 or Linda Rowe at 234-2575 for more info. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - The Sonlighters in Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. • 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Salvation Army Family Store helps families with utilities. • 5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th Street Ministries building. • 5:30 p.m. – The Mena Hospital Commission will meet for their monthly meeting in the MRHS Board Room. • 5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Meeting at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy, 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. • 6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel music in the Daisy Room at Janssen Ave Florist. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-2164606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn next The Crossing Church. Friday, 1/26 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Road tests are given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room unless the roads are wet. Written tests are given at 1:00 p.m. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 12:00 p.m. – PCDC Board of Directors will meet in the MRHS Conference Room A. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Fibers Arts

Group meets at Mena Art Gallery. • 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 The Crossing Church. • 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Leon Page Band, Vernon Johnson, and Pure Country Band will be playing at the Hatfield Auditorium. $6.00 admission. 50/50 drawing, potluck, and door prizes. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-2164606 or 479-243-0297. Saturday, 1/27 • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. 479-2430297 or 479-216-4606. Sunday, 1/28 • 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-2164606 or 479-243-0297. • 3:00 p.m. – Worship service is held at Sulpher Springs Church. • 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. Monday, 1/29 • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-2164606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn next The Crossing Church. Tuesday, 1/30 • 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the 9th Street Ministries Building. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366

Polk Road 50. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. Bring your current project and work with other artists. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters in Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch Library will be open. • 5:00 p.m. - T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weighins, followed by a meeting. • 5:00 p.m. – Country and Gospel music is played at the Polk County Housing Authority Community Room. • 7:00 p.m. – Al-Anon for the families of addicts and alcoholics meets at the ABC club. • 7:00 p.m. – Dallas Valley RVFD will meet for training at the Fire House. • 7:00 p.m. – Acorn Fire & Rescue will meet at the Fire Department. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. 479-234-2887 or 479234-3043. Wednesday, 1/31 • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 12:00 p.m. - The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Mena. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library is open. • 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – The I of the Storm, Embracing Conflict, Creating Peace will be facilitated by Cindy Sickler. Class held at Polk County Library. • 5:45 p.m. – The Mena First United Methodist Church Kidz will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – Warriors for Christ will meet at the Southside Church of God.

• 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Regeneration Youth Ministries meets at Mena Church of God Hwy 88 East. • 6:15 p.m. – Dallas Avenue Baptist Church offers Discovery Kids – Kindergarten Thru 5th Grade; Collide Youth Ministry – 6th Thru 12th Grades; and Adult Bible Study. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-2164606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Inquiry Classes into the Catholic Faith will be held in the St. Thomas House at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 203 8th Street, and continue through Easter 2018. No cost or obligation, anyone interested is invited. Call 479-394-1017 for more information.

• CHILI DINNER at Dallas Masonic Lodge on Saturday, January 27th, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., 701 Port Arthur Street in Mena. Seven types of chili, cornbread, iced tea, and dessert. Donations will benefit their member, Larry, who lost his home to fire. For more information, call 479394-1069.

BEATS

calendar

Weekly Publication

January 24, 2018

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

saturday

The 29th Annual Mena FFA Alumni Consignment Auction

February 3, 2018

anyone can buy anyone can sell

no buyer’s premium! get your items consigned early!! To consign items, please call: Rondal Mullen

234-1745

Allen Stewart

394-1731

Jimmy Martin

216-2488

Steve Singleton

243-5675

Brian Erickson

243-7512

David Head

394-1960

Kyle Todd

234-3391

Dedrick Hale

394-2997

Consigned items can be checked in on Friday, Feb. 2nd from 9am-5pm or on the day of the sale until sale starts. items included, but not limited to the following: 1956 CUB TRACTOR, 1985 S&H 4 HORSE SLANT GOOSE NECK TRAILER WITH TACK ROOM AND SLEEPING AREA, 6 FT. BRUSH HOG, 5 FT. BRUSH HOG, 5 FT. ANGLE BLADE ,16 FT. GOOSENECK TRAILER, 1995 CHEV EXT. CAB PICKUP 4X4, 1998 CHEVY 7500 DIESEL 8 YARD DUMP TRUCK, CAT 416B BACKHOE, CRAFTSMAN 250 AMP ACDC WELDER 220 VOLT,WACKER PACKER FOR DIRT, PAINT SPRAYER TIP AIR, MONITOR TESTER SYSTEM, TRASH CAN CAPS (SEVERAL), EQUIPMENT MANUALS, BARREL PUMPS, TRUCK TOOL BOXES, GRADER WHEELS, HOBART BETA MIG 200 WELDER, 1/4 FENDERS FOR TRUCKS, 1979 FORD BOARDMAN CAB-OVER FIRE TRUCK - 1,000 GPM, 2004 CARGO TRAILER 8X20, 1999 HARLEY SPORTSTER, TWO (2) CRAFTSMAN ROLL-AROUND TOOL CHESTS, 2001 BUICK CENTURY 4 DOOR CAR, 1997 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE 4 DOOR CAR, 2 HORSE TRAILER WITH STORAGE AREA, 10 NEW TIRES LT245/75R17, 2001 DODGE 1 TON 4X4 W/FLATBED RAM 3500 CUMMINS 24 VALVE TURBO DIESEL, 2003 CHEVROLET 4X4 3/4 TON 2500 HD, APPROX. 20 PLUS USED PLASTIC CULVERTS SIZES 12” - 15” - 18” DIA. 5’ TO 24’ LONG, 2001 JEEP CHEROKEE, COVERED HORSE TRAILER

CO-SPONSORED BY

UNION BANK

. . .January . . . . . . . .24, . . .2018 ..................................................................................................................

sports

Weekly Publication

Acorn & Mena Jr. High Basketball Matchup BY EASTON LEONARD • eastonsports@yahoo.com

n Monday, January 15 th, the Acorn and Mena junior high basketball teams matched up at Jim Rackley Gymnasium, the on campus of Mena Middle School. In the first two games, the Acorn th grade girls team defeated Mena -18, as the Mena th grade earcats defeated Acorn -1 . In the unior high varsity girls game, the Acorn Jr. ady Tigers outscored the Jr. adycats 33-1 in the first half, and e tended their lead in the second half, defeating Mena by twenty-seven, - . Ashlynn issell led the Acorn Jr. ady Tigers with 1 points on the night, as annah Stockton led the Mena Jr. adycats with points. The Mena Jr. earcats outscored Acorn -11 in the first half of the boys game, and also e tended their lead in the second half, to win the game by twenty-one, - 3. amien ohlman led the Acorn Jr. Tigers with points in the game, while Mason rotherton led the Mena Jr. earcats with 0 points.

Bearcats Handle Cossatot A

BY EASTON LEONARD PHOTO COURTESY BEAR FACTS

Mena 7th Grade Basketball Competes In Greenwood BY EASTON LEONARD

eastonsports@yahoo.com

n Saturday, January 0th, the Mena th grade earcats and Ladycats competed in the Greenwood Jamboree. In the adycats’ ﬁrst game, the A-team fell to hosting Greenwood -9, as the -team also lost 1 - . In their second game, the Ladycats A-team took on O ark and won 0- , as Emily Machler and Keira Hall led the team with points each. The adycats -team also matched up against O ark and tied - . In the ﬁnal games of the amboree, the adycats A-team defeated orthridge an uren 1 -11, as Avery Cannon and ivian enton led with points each. In the -team game, Mena also won 1 - . Also competing in the jamboree, the th grade varsity earcats won both of their games, with wins against Greenwood and O ark, as the th grade unior-varsity teams went 1-1.

t the Union ank Center, on Tuesday night, January 1 th, the Mena earcats senior high basketball team hosted the Cossatot River agles. Prior to the senior high game, the Mena Jr. earcats defeated Cossatot 9-30. In the ﬁrst quarter, Mena blew right past the agles, outscoring Cossatot 0- , to take an eighteen point lead into the second. Thanks to four three-pointers by Trenton Rosson, the agles were able to outscore Mena 18-1 in the second, to trail by seventeen, 3 - 0, going into halftime. At the half, Trenton Rosson led the agles with 1 points, as Connor arvey led Mena with points. The earcats e erted their lead in the third quarter, outscoring Cossatot 1 -8, to take a twenty-three point lead, 1- 8, into the fourth quarter. In the ﬁnal quarter, Mena didn’t let up, continuing to e tend their lead, outscoring the agles 13- , to win the game by twenty-nine, -3 . Trenton Rosson led the Cossatot agles with 1 points on the night, while Juan Trinidad, rayden Smith, and Coy Frachiseur scored points each, olby Frachiseur 3 points, and Cody rown, Garrett Watkins, and rian Strother points. Connor arvey led the Mena earcats with 3 points in the game, as lake Seals added on points, aniel avis points, ick Myers points, ane Stephens, avid Grenier, and Payton Tomblin 3 points each, and rock Strother and Marc Wilson points each.

Weekly Publication

Lady Eagles Soar Past Mena

BY EASTON LEONARD PHOTO COURTESY BEAR FACTS

sports

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .January . . . . . . . .24, . . . 2018 ........

n Tuesday, January 16 th, the Mena Ladycats hosted the Cossatot River Lady Eagles at the Union Bank Center. The Lady Eagles started the game off on a 9-0 run, before Mena scored it’s ﬁrst bucket. Cossatot went on to outscore the adycats 19- , to take a seventeen point lead into the second. The Ladycats scored eight points in the second quarter of play, but allowed Cossatot to e tend it’s lead to twenty-seven, by scoring eighteen points of their own. Cossatot took a 3 -10 lead into halftime. At halftime, Ashlen Gonzalez led the Lady Eagles with 13 points, while Paige vans led Mena with 8 points. Cossatot did not let up in the third quarter, outscoring the adycats 13-10, to e tend their lead to thirty, 0- 0. In the fourth and ﬁnal quarter of play, Mena outscored the ady agles 11- , but still fell short by twenty-one points, -31. Paige vans led the Mena adycats with 1 points in the game, as Tateli Thacker added on 6 points, Keira Kesterson 5 points, and Caddie Cannon 4 points. Ashlen Gonzalez led the Cossatot Lady Eagles with 1 points, while Rhyen Martin scored 1 points of her own, Raegan Richardson and Jacie Wilkerson 8 points each, Jade Richardson 3 points, and auren river and Shanna Johnson points each.

January 6, 2016

Mountain View Clinic is a locally owned clinic in Mena, AR, serving Polk County and surrounding communities.

We are currently seeking a full-time

MD, Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner in our Family Practice Clinic.

This person will be a part of a team that dedicated to improving the quality and delivery of healthcare to our patients. We are a patient-centered medical home that provides general medical care, both acute and chronic management. We have an on-site laboratory to enhance our ability to treat patients along with radiology.

LICENSED RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CONTRACTOR

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. COMPLETE CARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

1102 Crestwood Circle, Mena 479-394-7301

We are now accepting applications for

Business Office Manager

Come see us if you’re interested in working with us and making the lives of our residents and patients worth living.

Responsibility • Work with primary care physician to provide the best care • Provide preventative and primary care for patients of all ages during work hours in a clinic setting • Full-time preferred • No after hours duties Our clinic offers you the opportunity to utilize all of your medical skills, while still providing an amazing work-life balance. Please send resumes to 1102 Crestwood Circle, Mena, AR 71953 or mvcpm@sbcgloal.net. Come and join our team at Mountain View Clinic.

Position Available:

Business Office Manager

Experience in these areas is a plus:

NEW CONSTRUCTION, ADDITIONS, AND REMODELING FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION. CONCRETE, DECORATIVE CONCRETE, PATIO COVERS, CARPORTS, SHADE STRUCTURES, RETAINING WALLS, RV COVERS.

WE CAN DO IT ALL

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK WWW.GLENNAIRECONSTRUCTION.COM INFO@GLENNAIRECONSTRUCTION.COM

JAMES EARL TURNER (479) 234-6244 ERIC TURNER (479) 243-5549

• Bookkeeping • Medicaid/Medicare Billing • Private Pay Billing We offer:

• Competitive Pay • Insurance • Vacation Time Accrual • Full Time Position

Rich Mountain Nursing & Rehab Center 306 Hornbeck, Mena 479-394-3511

. . January . . . . . . . .24, . . . 2018 ...................................................................................................................

history

Weekly Publication

Moments From America’s History: “The Final Frontier” “S

BY JEFF OLSON

olson0371@gmail.com

pace, the final frontier...to e plore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civili ations, to boldly go where no man has gone before. Sound familiar It should because it was the opening lines to the original Star Trek television series back in the mid-late 19 0s. It also re ected the spirit of the American space program which saw its greatest growth during that decade. When we think of this program, the first thing that comes to mind for most of us is man’s first step onto the surface of the moon in July 19 9. For those of us who remember that day, and for those who have seen videos of it or read about it in history books, we will likely never forget the words of eil Armstrong, That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind. There are many who consider this event as America’s greatest moment. Perhaps so, but at the very least it was the high point or watershed moment of America’s and man’s ourney into the final frontier, and a source of inspiration which reached well beyond the space program. It is important for us to understand and acknowledge though that, amidst all the achievements, progress and glory that arose from the e periences in this frontier, there was a price paid - in mistakes, in lessons learned, and most importantly in human cost - which for some test pilots and astronauts was the ultimate price. The names of those who gave most may have slipped from the newspapers and te tbooks, but their contributions and sacrifices should never slip from our memory or from the annals of American history. As of 01 , there have been 1 American astronaut fatalities during space ight and 3 fatalities while training for space missions. There have also been some non-astronaut fatalities during space ight-related activities. All of course have given equal sacrifice, but here I will highlight those astronauts who gave all. Forty-one years ago this week, January , 19 , astronauts Gus Grissom, dward White and Roger Chaffee died in a fire aboard their Apollo I spacecraft while training at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Thirty-two years ago this Sunday, January 8, 198 , the shuttle Challenger e ploded within 3 seconds of its launch, killing all seven crew members Greg Jarvis, Ronald Mc air, llison Oni uka, Judith Resnik, ick Scobee, Michael Smith and high school teacher Christa McAuliffe. On February 1, 003, the shuttle Columbia disintegrated in ames over Te as en route to a landing at Cape Canaveral. All seven astronauts aboard died Rick usband, William McCool, Michael Anderson, avid rown, alpana Chawla, aurel Clark and IIan Ramon. As tragic as these and the other losses were, they were certainly not in vain. Much was learned which would improve space ight and the safety of future astronauts who would build upon the successes of their predecessors. In all, their lives represented the best of America’s creative and limitless spirit of imagination and bold and relentless spirit of curiosity, innovation and courage. Their contributions have been enormous, including advances in medicine and other technologies which have improved, enriched and lengthened the lives of everyday folks like you and me. And, we certainly must not leave the issue and reality of national defense and security out of the advantages of staying on the cutting edge of space technologies and advancements. President Ronald Reagan gave a most poignant farewell from a grateful nation to those special Americans we lost on the Challenger We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them....as they prepared for the ourney and waved goodbye and slipped the surly bonds of earth’ to touch the face of God. I believe this farewell to be quite appropriate also for all astronauts and aviators who paid the ultimate price in their quest to e plore the Final Frontier. Weekly Publication

arts

................................................................................................................................

Mena Art Gallery: 2018 I

BY BARBARA M. TOBIAS

have been working with Mena Art Gallery for over a do en years and have seen it grow and change. ere are some of the things planned for 018 Two national uried painting competitions will bring the best work from artists all over the U.S. Artists can enter either or both by posting photographs of their work online a ury of three artists will select the best work and those artists will send their paintings to the gallery. We especially welcome local artists to both shows there are special awards for the best Arkansas entries. More details are available at www.TheArtofthe eartland.com. In February, we will have our first Portrait of Arkansas e hibit featuring a variety of artists’ concepts of what our state means to each. We have several other new e hibits this year The Art of air, Photography, and Fiber Arts to name ust a few. Our annual oung Artists Competition is open to all of our up-and-coming artists. The gallery will take part in the annual Ouachita Arts Celebration in ovember an opportunity to see what is happening in the many different aspects of art in our community. We hold workshops with local artists teaching the basics of many different aspects of art, most recently a series of classes on drawing skills and an ongoing series on creating pencil portraits. There are monthly classes for young people one for children to 1 years old and another for teenagers and beginner adults. Our classes for the younger artists are on hold for this month as our instructor, eborah ongest, recently passed away. She will be missed she did a great ob. The classes will resume as soon as we can find another qualified instructor. And for those of you who don’t care for organi ed classes, there is Art ay every Tuesday from 11 am to pm. Artists come and go to work on current pro ects and to visit with each other. ou are welcome to oin them either to work on any pro ect that is portable enough to bring or ust to watch and oin the conversations. It’s always fun. Some of the concepts we are working on include some videos teaching basic art skills and once-a-month rown ag unches where you bring your lunch to the gallery and one of our artists will demonstrate some aspect of art. We’ll tell you about these as soon as they are available. As many of you know, we are a 01 C 3 non-profit corporation we are funded primarily from membership fees and donations from many generous and supportive businesses and individuals in our community. We have one part-time employee Julie ande ande, who does a great ob as ecutive irector. Most of the people who greet you when you come into the gallery are volunteers who give of their time to make it possible to keep the gallery open. If you would like to oin their ranks, talk to Julie there is a task to match whatever skills and time you can bring. Another way to support the gallery is by becoming a member memberships start at 0 per year and keep you up-to-date on whatever is going on by our monthly newsletter. ou can also keep up with what is going on by checking our website www.MenaArtGallery.org. ou are welcome to attend our monthly oard of irectors meetings held on the second Tuesday of each month at 30 pm. our ideas and suggestions are always welcome and we would love to have you take part.

January 24, 2018

Weekly Publication

Military Retirement Pay Tax Cut Kicks In SUBMITTED BY ARKANSAS GOVERNOR ASA HUTCHINSON

arlier this year, I told the story of Adam and Brittany Boccher, who have decided to remain in Arkansas after Adam retires from the Air Force in mid- 019. The deciding factor in their decision was Act 141, a new law that exempts military retirement benefits from state income ta . The law, which I proposed and which passed in the 91st General Assembly with wide bipartisan support, takes effect on January 1. The law accomplishes several things. By exempting their retirement benefits from state ta , we honor in a small way the sacrifice of our veterans, many of whom, like Adam, have deployed overseas. During his 18 years in the Air Force, Adam has served three tours in the Middle East. The law is a benefit to the state, as well. y enticing military families to retire in Arkansas, we will keep their skills, their experience and their leadership. The Bocchers’ decision to stay here is exactly what we hoped Act 141 would accomplish. But if the Bocchers’ decision to stay isn’t enough evidence that the law is a good idea, I am happy to report that another retired military family has decided to move to Arkansas because of this new law. Thanks to the tax cut, Brittany’s parents are moving to Arkadelphia from Texas in March. Her stepfather is a retired Marine who earns his income driving a truck. ere is the benefit tally for Arkansas One airman who will continue his career in law enforcement when he retires in 019, and his spouse, who happens to be the reigning Armed Services Spouse of the ear, who owns a business called Mason Chix Apparel. But there will also be another family member who is a retired Marine who will contribute to the state as a truck driver, and his spouse, who will employ her experience in industrial sales. Brittany’s parents have also bought a house. That’s a lot of talent, hard work and passion, and that’s just one family. I think it is safe to say that I was correct when I predicted during the General Assembly that the income ta e emption would be a significant boost” to Arkansas. rittany’s parents will be able to benefit from the income ta cut as soon as they move here. Adam and Brittany will have to wait 18 months. ut Starting January 1, the benefit to about ,000 of our retired military residents is immediate, and so is the benefit to Arkansas. To our veterans, retired or not, thank you for all that you have done for our country and our state. And to our retirees who are considering Arkansas as the place to stay, I say, welcome home. We are all better for your presence.

Governor Presents Budget to Legislature SUBMITTED BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE

at the capitol

................................................................................................................................

ITTLE ROCK – The governor presented his balanced budget proposal to legislators, who will act on the plan during the fiscal session that begins on February 12. The bulk of the increased spending next year would be for the Medicaid program, which subsidizes health care for people with disabilities, the elderly who need long term nursing care, and low-income families. The Division of Children and Family Services, which recruits foster families for children who have been abused or neglected, is set to receive an additional $ 7.3 million. That will allow it to hire 6 5 additional caseworkers. Under the governor’s proposal, state prisons would get an additional $ 3.5 million, bringing their estimated total from state general revenue to $ 35 3. The agency that administers drug courts, parole and probation is due to get an additional $ 1.7 million, bringing its total to almost $ 88 million for next year. Although the governor proposes a balanced budget every year, it is the legislature that has final authority to review and approve all state agency spending requests. For example, during budget hearings when the governor presented his plan, one senator expressed a desire to increase funding above the governor’s recommendation so that the state can hire more parole and probation officers. The average caseload is 1 0 for about 8 officers. The senator said he would introduce an amendment to add 30 new officers. uring the fiscal session legislators will adopt budgets for state Fiscal ear 019, which begins on July 1. Fiscal sessions last for 30 days, but can be e tended to January days if a6, 2016 percent majority of each chamber votes to extend. The state Constitution does not allow for an additional extension beyond 45 days. The Arkansas legislature used to meet every two years, but voters approved a constitutional amendment to authorize yearly sessions, with session in even-numbered- years strictly devoted to appropriations. The first fiscal session was in 010. Although the legislature will only consider budget bills during the fiscal session, there is a mechanism for considering non-budget matters. owever, it requires the approval of a supermajority of two-thirds in each chamber to be able to introduce a non-budget bill. Typically during a fiscal session, the legislature will approve about 300 separate appropriations to authorize spending by state agencies and institutions of higher education. The proposed budget for ne t fiscal year is based on an estimated increase in spending of almost $ 173 million, which would bring the total of state general revenue spending to $ 5 .6 billion. Arkansas also collects special revenues, such as motor fuels taxes for highway construction, and we receive federal matching funds for highway programs, education and health care. This fiscal year the total of all sources of government spending in Arkansas will be an estimated 9. billion. Medicaid relies heavily on federal matching funds. Arkansas, like other relatively poor states, receives a high percentage of matching funds compared to prosperous states. The federal government has matched our Medicaid funding by paying for 0.8 percent of total costs. However, due to recent improvements in our per capita income, the match rate is dropping slightly, to 0. 1 percent. The change means that the state will contribute an additional $ 48.6 million to the total cost of Medicaid in Arkansas.

Additional Op-Eds, Editorials, & Commentaries Available under the Features Tab at MyPulseNews.com

. . .January . . . . . . . .24, . . .2018 ..................................................................................................................

citizen

Weekly Publication

Mary Dixon - Retiree, Equestrian, Musician, Faithful Servant Extrordinaire BY LEANN DILBECK • editor@mypulsenews.com

or many people who are embarking upon retirement, they are looking forward to a slower pace of life, the anticipated golden years of life where days are full of rest and relaxation… but not Mary Dixon, who is looking forward to having the time to devote herself to passions closest to her heart. She embodies President John F. Kennedy’s ideology that “For of those to whom much is given, much is required,” inspired by Luke 12:48. Mary is a native Arkansan, spending her youth in Magnet Cove. After graduation, she attended Ouachita Baptist University, with aspirations of being an elementary guidance counselor. While still a college student, Mary worked for an Arkadelphia attorney. “He came in one day and said ‘have you ever thought about joining the Army?’ I said, ‘Well, not really.’ He said, ‘Come to UALR campus tomorrow… we’re going to sign you up!’” Mary explained that she was 22-23 years old at the time and that it was a two-year commitment. “I thought, ‘I can do anything for two years!’” The rest, as they say, is history. Mary served her country in the U.S. Army for 33 years, as a member of JAG and assisting in the Inspector General’s office. It was during that time that they sent her for court reporter training at a Naval justice school in Rhode Island. After leaving the Army, Mary would ultimately land in Mena in 1991 to serve as 18th West Judicial Circuit Court and Polk County Circuit Court’s official Court Reporter, ultimately serving the State of Arkansas for an additional 27 years before retiring at the end of 2017. During her tenure, she served three judges: Judge Gayle Ford, Judge Jake Looney, and Judge Jerry Ryan. She said that one of the highlights of her career was watching the progress of the graduates from the drug court program in overcoming their addictions and making life-changing decisions because of the support and incentive the program provides. Mary is, by far, not your typical retiree, with multiple passions, she now has more time to fully devote herself to. Mary is the owner of 11 thoroughbreds, one Arabian, and four Welsh ponies. She hopes to be able to offer English riding lessons, and hunter jumping lessons by this spring. She also plans to use one to two of the horses for therapy. People with cognitive, psycho-motor and behavioral disabilities have shown positive results when equestrian or equine therapy is taught correctly by certified equine therapists. Just like other therapies such as physical, occupational and speech-language therapy, people with disabilities are being helped or assisted by certified therapists to cope with their disability. However, equine therapy combines all three in such a way that the patients or students do not feel that they are actually under therapy. This passion parallels her service as president of the PCDC Board of Directors. “If you ever feel like things aren’t just going your way… go spend a day at PCDC,” she said glowingly, “Those kids will just make your life so joyful! They just love their lives. There is so much to be learned from them.” She celebrates each of their accomplishments and their integration as productive citizens, living and giving back to their local community. Mary said efforts are underway to create a men’s home, much like AVANTS, the women’s home. Mary is also very active in her church, First Presbyterian, and said she is looking forward to spending more time with members of the congregation. She’s also starting a new Bible study class that she plans to teach, “That’s going to be a good discipline for me,” she explained. Mary is also the founder of the Ouachita Strings. She said she first picked up a violin in 1980 through a program provided by the Ross Foundation. The Foundation provides the instruments and the student is only responsible for the cost of the lesson. A concept she duplicated when relocating to Mena in 1991. The program now boasts 43 students, of which, many are quite accomplished, winning superior ratings in state-wide competitions. They are members of the Arkansas Federated Music Club and the local group is known as the Mena Mountain Music Musicale. The group plays a plethora of styles from classical, to folk and Celtic. They hold four recitals per year and play at multiple social events and weddings as well. Mary’s passion for the arts is deep and said she plans to volunteer at the Mena Art Gallery and Ouachita Little Theatre as well, and not necessarily as an artist or actor, she joked, but in a supporting role. She said, “My only talent at the theatre is making popcorn! But, I love to make popcorn… and maybe I can do programs, too.” She holds a deep appreciation for all that Mena has to offer, “There’s so much to do in this town! Especially, for such a small town… there’s something that you can be going and doing, literally every night here!” Mary has received lots of encouragement from her many Arkadelphia friends to move back there but she has no plans of leaving, “This is my home. My music is here. My horses are here. And, I’m just so proud of Mena… and all of the people who live here. This is where I want to live out my days.”

479-216-2055

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** Locally Owned **

January 24, 2018

Weekly Publication

Coffee Vault – Cracking Open the Secrets to Coffee and Friendship BY LEANN DILBECK • editor@mypulsenews.com

business

................................................................................................................................

nly one year into the coffee shop business and Ms. Arby Ryalls is expanding, opening her second location. Ryalls purchased Friendship House in January 2017 and is starting off 2018 opening her second location, The Coffee Vault, in South Polk County. Arby seized an opportunity to lease the former bank ( First National Bank / Bear State Bank) building on Hwy 71 South across from the Hwy 4 intersection, thus, the name Coffee Vault. Arby is looking forward to the locale providing a drive-thru as an added convenience for her customers. “Our drive thru is not complete but just drive up to the speaker and let us know you are there.” Initially, the Coffee Vault will be serving breakfast items and pastries all day, “We are hoping to achieve a ‘down home’ coffee house vibe,” Arby explained. All of the coffees will be the same as those available at the Friendship House, along with a few added extras, that Arby is excited to share with her customers. “Our house blend coffee has changed and I can' t wait for every one to try this new blend!” Unlike Friendship House, the Coffee Vault will not have a salad or soup bar or any specialty sandwiches. ‘Leslie J.,’ a familiar face to Friendship House customers, has been named as the Coffee Vault Manager. Arby added that Liberty would be Saturday’s barista and many other familiar faces, including hers, will be in and out. A grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, and will include $ .5 0 house blend coffees all day, along with a 10% discount on food and drink orders. Free scone samples will be available and will include apple, chocolate chip, and blueberry. Arby has announced Coffee 23 January 6, 2016 Vault’s hours as Monday through January 6, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............... Friday from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. but said that they may have to adjust according to the needs of their customers. The Coffee Vault will also feature FREE WiFi so customers can catch up on work, emails, or homework assignments… all while enjoying delicious Coffee Vault brews and sweets. Arby is stoked that she can continue the work she has come to develop an extreme appreciation for and the relationships she’s built, saying that the customers and staff have been her greatest enjoyment. “I have met the most amazing people here this last year. Of course, the staff I dearly love. I plan on making new friends, and learning more history at our Cove location.” Next to Library • Across from Janssen Park With all of the stresses of being a small business owner and opening a second location, Arby maintains perspective and sense of humor, “Just remember to have fun! Life is just a journey so laugh a lot and drink good coffee!”

“J

citizen

Chili Dinner

su t rem em be r to hav e f un! L if e is j us t a j our ney s o laugh a l ot and dr ink good c of f ee! ” - ARBY

to raise funds for our brother, Larry, who lost everything to a house fire recently.

Dallas Masonic Lodge 701 Port Arthur

Saturday, January 27, 2018 Different Chili Recipes

11am till 2pm

is hiring for the following positions:

Cornbread, Iced Tea, Dessert

Donation Give as your heart leads. Help a good neighbor.

Rose Aircraft Services

It’s a good time

to enjoy good chili and fellowship for a good cause.

For information contact 479-394-1069

• Receptionist • Seamstress • Seat Upholsterers

Contact Dena Johnson 479-394-2551 or in person at 132 Flight Lane. We do offer insurance, vacation & 401K.

police

January 24, 2018

Weekly Publication

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The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner. Mena Police Department January 7, 2018 Report was made of someone breaking a window from a vehicle. Case is pending location and interview of suspect. January 8, 2018 Willard Warran Smith, 35, of Cove was charged with third degree battery after officers responded to a call at a local residence. Timothy Jay Robertson, 30, of Mena was charged with disorderly conduct after a call to a local residence. January 9, 2018 Report was taken of several incidences of theft (shoplifting) from a local retail store. Case was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney for issuance of a warrant. January 10, 2018 Timothy Jay Robertson, 30, of Mena was arrested and charged with fleeing after an incident on a local street. Jennifer Hale, 23, of Pine Ridge was apprehended by Scott County authorities. Mena Police officers tra elled to Waldron to bring Hale back to Polk County where she was served two outstanding warrants. Daniel Joe May, 22, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the Polk County sheriff’s office. January 11, 2018 A local woman reported that someone had broken into her vehicle while she was shopping at a local retail store. Officers re iewed sur eillance tapes from the store and no evidence of a break-in was seen on the tape. January 12, 2018 Report was made of a battery being

committed against a local woman and her child. Case is pending further investigation. January 13, 2018 Ian Mackenzie, 21, of Mena was arrested on two outstanding warrants. January 14, 2018 Report was made of someone making obscene telephone calls to a local woman. Case is pending. January 15, 2018 o criminal reports filed. January 16, 2018 Two area residents complained that each is being harassed by the other. After investigation, the parties advised that they did not wish to press charges. January 17, 2018 Report was made of a verbal altercation between two local residents. No charges were filed. January 18, 2018 o criminal reports filed. January 19, 2018 A local man reported that he is being harassed by his former girlfriend. Case is pending further investigation. Employees at a local convenience store reported a gas-skip in the amount of . . Case is pending identification and location of suspects. Report was made by a Mena woman of being harassed by an acquaintance. Case is pending. January 20, 2018 A Mena man reported that someone had broken into his house and taken his dog. He later advised that a former girlfriend had taken the dog and did not wish to pursue charges.

Polk County heriff’s epartment January 8, 2018 Arrested was Robert A. Hamilton, 30, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. Arrested was Kristi H. Green, 24, of Talihina, OK, on a Warrant for Felony Failure to Appear. January 9, 2018 Report from a Vandervoort woman that her 13-year-old son was missing. Investigation continues into his whereabouts. Report from a Mena woman of the theft of electronics, valued at $50.00. Investigation continues.

Arrested was Bradley E. Robinson, 25, of Oden, on Warrants for Theft by Receiving, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Schedule I/II Controlled Substance, Fleeing in a Vehicle and Absconding. January 10, 2018 Report from complainant on Polk 70 near Acorn of the damage to a sign, totaling losses at $200.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 23 near Cove of damage to a fence, totaling losses at $285.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 36 near Hatfield of damage to a fence and a mailbox, totaling losses at $350.00. Investigation continues. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Justin A. Ashley, 24, of Mena, on Charges of DWI, Speed-

ing, No Insurance, Reckless Driving and Refusal to Submit. January 11, 2018 Discovery of an illegal substance led to a Citation for Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance being issued to Andrew L. Warner, 28, of Mena. Arrested was Daniel J. May, 22, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear. January 12, 2018 eport of a structure fire on Highway 375 West near Mena. Deputy responded. Arrested was Charles D. Morgan, 40, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. January 13, 2018 Report from walk-in complainant of a disturbance that had occurred earlier in the day. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s ffice for CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

Weekly Publication

UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1 • ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID.

Ad deadline is 12 p.m. on Monday. Payment is due with ad. Publishing and distributing 8,000 copies weekly. aniel’s Carpentry and Painting, home repair, decks, privacy fences, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 479-216-1101 or 479-216-2299. 1/31 ard Mo in weed eating, bush hogging, handyman services, power washing, garden tilling with tractor. Have tractor with implements for larger jobs. Bill Duff. 479-216-5204. 2/7 Mo ile o Grooming, bath, nails, eats, brushing, clipping. Deanna Boyd, 479-234-1866. www.scmobiledogwash.com. I will come to you. 1/31 or ent in Cove. 2 bedroom, 1 bath house $450 month/ $250 security. 870-387-7641. No pets. Available February 1st. 1/24 o er Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dump Truck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling, Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer operator Randy Egger, o er years’ e perience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357 TFN

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Clean and omfortable housing since 1969, No Pets. . ay Maria’s MH Park and entals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479-216-3085 TFN

House Cleanin and more. Call Winnie Cotter at 4- 4 or na ewis at 4- 9 . 1/31

Pu li oti e: The following items from Polk county will be sold to the highest bidder at a public auction held at the Polk County Fairgrounds on February 3, 2018 starting at 10:00AM. Road Department items: 1994-416B Cat 2 wheel drive backhoe, 1998 Chevy C7 single a le dump truck, Che y 4 4 pickup, Doge ton 4 4 flatbed truck with Cummins diesel, assorted used plastic culverts, Craftsman amp olt welder, Wacker packer compactor, airless paint sprayer, 2000 automotive monitor tester system, Hobart Beta mig, big bo of hea y equipment shop manuals, old barrel pumps, truck tool bo es, brand new 4 /7 7 tires, se eral used truck and tractor tires, several large steel pipe cut-offs, and other misc. heriff’s Department items 4 4 eep iberty. /

u an a n Care Fall and Winter ser ices. hrub and hedged trimming, flower bed cleanup, leaf clean up gutter clean out, brush hogging, light driveway repair, property cleanup, and light tree removal. Residential and commercial services. 479-394-2699. TFN

or ale: Doublewide 2000 Palm Harbor, 4 bedrooms, bathrooms. arge kitchen, li ing room, family room, laundry room dining room. pen floor plan. eeds to be mo ed. Call or te t - 7 - 793228. 1/24

Cafe e t to book store. herwood A e. pen ue- un am- pm. unch Dinners with salad . . Soup Chili - Fresh Potatoes. Closed Mondays. 479216-4807 1/31 or ale: egacy Mobile Home. bedroom, 2 bath. $23,000. To be moved. 479-243-6150 1/24

January 6, 2016

We’re Always on at

MyPulseNews.com

Weekly Publication

police

................................................................................................................................ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

further consideration. Arrested was Albert V. Shomo, , of De ueen, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear. anuary 1 2018 eport of a disturbance on Highway 7 West near Acorn led to the arrest of Paul V. Trahan, 28, of Mena, on a Charge of Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. Polk County heriff’s ffice worked two vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 22 Incarcerated Inmates, with 7 nmates currently on the Waiting ist for a tate Facility. anuary 15 2018 Report from a Vandervoort woman of the theft of a phone, valued at $500.00. Investigation continues. eport of a structure fire on Polk 4 South near Shady Grove.

Arrested was Rodney J. Emry, 46, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear. anuary 16 2018 Report from complainant on Highway 7 near Wickes of the theft of a battery, valued at $125.00. Investigation continues. anuary 1 2018 Report of a disturbance led to a 16-year-old male being issued a Juvenile Citation for Disorderly Conduct. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Report of a disturbance on Polk 41 South near Shady Grove. Deputies responded. Complainant refused to press charges. Arrested was Ashley C. Casey, 31, of Cove, on a Drug Court Sanction. Arrested was Sheila M. Akers, 39, of De ueen, on a Warrant for Felony Failure to Appear.

anuary 18 2018 Report from walk-in complainant of child custody issues. Report from a Mena woman that an individual had used her vehicle without permission. Information has been proided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s ffice for further consideration. Report from complainant on Polk 76 East near Mena of the theft of a chainsaw. Investigation continues. anuary 1 2018 Report from complainant on Highway West near ocky of the theft of a firearm, valued at $150.00. Investigation continues. Arrested was usty . e els, , of Mena, on a Charge of Disorderly Conduct. anuary 20 2018 eport of an on fire on ebra ane near Hatton. Deputy responded. Arrested by an officer with the ran-

nis Police Department was Cassandra J. Mosley, 33, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on a Cleveland County, Oklahoma Warrant. anuary 21 2018 Report from complainant on 1st treet in Wickes of being harassed by an acquaintance. Information has been pro ided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s ffice for further consideration. Report of a one-vehicle accident on Highway 270 near Acorn led to the arrest of immie . Walker, 4 , of Pocola, , on Charges of Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance. Polk County heriff’s ffice worked one vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates, with 4 nmates currently on the Waiting ist for a tate Facility.

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

January 24, 2018

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