January 7, 2015
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512 Seventh Street • Mena, AR 71953 • 479-243-9600
Mayor Plans ‘Big Year’ for 2015
BY JACLYN ROSE & MELANIE BUCK Mena Mayor George McKee is looking forward to a big year in 2015, improving the city with projects and purchases. One of the biggest projects will be a new road from Geyer Drive to Highway 71 North. The road will be placed between Sun Country Inn and Mena Ford and will extend to the west side of Holly Harshman Elementary. The new road will help with congestion, mainly from school traffic. Accepting bids for the much anticipated streetscape project is also on the Mayor’s list of priorities for 2015. Funding for the
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Polk County Welcomes First Baby of 2015!
Mena Regional Health System proudly welcomes the 2015 New Year’s Baby. Addison Huser was the first baby delivered at Mena Regional Health System on New Year’s morning. Presenting Rachel Huser, mother of the infant, with a gift basket are: Laura Allen; CFO, Rick Billingsly; CNO and Interim CEO, Jennifer Maechler; RN and Betina Fair; RN. A special thanks to First National Bank, Union Bank, Wal-Mart, Janssen Florist and Mena Regional Health System Auxiliary for donating gifts for the New Year Baby basket.
Queen Wilhelmina Lodge Renovation Update
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
SUBMITTED BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE NATE BELL Last year when we held the State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee meeting at the Old Armory in Mena, I advised Arkansas State Parks that it was my intention to call for another committee meeting at Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge this month. This week, I decided not to proceed with the meeting request. Committee meetings outside of the Capitol are quite expensive to convene and despite the disappointing lack of activity for more than 2 years, I believe all parties involved have given the project their best
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEAN BOYD
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Judge Ellison Lays Out Plans for 2015 BY MELANIE BUCK As 2015 comes upon us, County Judge Brandon Ellison has shared his county resolutions for next year with The Pulse. Road repairs and construction are always a topic of discussion with the county’s citizens. Judge Ellison said, “We are staying the course on the 10-year road plan. Specifically, there are several bridges that need to be replaced in 2015.” Those bridges include those on Polk 7, Polk 6, and Polk 657. Ellison said there may be one or two more but he won’t make that determination until the first three are comCONTINUED ON PAGE 10
U.S.F.S. Issues Final Decision on Wolf Pen Gap
MENA, Ark. – The final decision concerning off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails and mixed use roads at Wolf Pen Gap near Mena was released Monday, January 5, by the Ouachita National Forest. Mena-Oden District Ranger, Tim Oosterhous, selected Alternative “I” as outlined in the Wolf Pen Gap Environmental Assessment. “I am pleased this decision finds common ground to protect the forest while CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
www.washburns.com
Mon-Fri 8:30 to 6:00 Sat 9:00 - 3:00 (479) 394-4332 (888) 394-4332
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January 7, 2015
Weekly Publication
WE HAVE MOVED!!!
editor
A NOTE FROM THE
Resolutions… the tradition that goes along with New Year’s for many. Goals from financial, to organizational, to spiritual… they run the gamut and are accompanied by the plan to achieve them. Goals and plans – definitely not bad things to have on your agenda but are they your goals and plans… or His? The truth is, as someone once said, “If you want to make God laugh, just tell Him your plans.” I spent a great too many years of my life, being an OCD organized, goal-oriented, planning personality and experience (sounds better than age) is teaching me the value and beauty in the simplicity of complete surrender. I’ve learned the arrogance of assuming I’m in control. I’ve learned the empowerment found when you let go and let Him. In my family, we relentlessly tease a certain member of it, who for my own protection shall remain nameless, that there is: 1) God’s way 2) Uncle Sam’s way, and 3) [insert family member’s name here] way. The independent spirit in us all would like to think, from time to time, we succeeded in any are pulling something off all on our own and left our the plans in a per- own unique fingerprint on it. But, don’t you know God gets a chuckle from that? After all, son’s heart, but it is Frank Sinatra made the concept famous, right? all know every note from “I Did it My the Lord’s purpose We Way…” It’s humbling and also empowering when that prevails.” you recognize that nothing, no goal or plan in -- P R O V E R B S 19:21 life, is worth attaining without God’s blessing on it. Our lives are not our own and while God wants to bless each of us with the desires of our heart, I pray we are all reminded in the coming year of His purpose for our lives. I love this profound quote from William Barclay: “There are two great days in a person’s life – the day we are born and the day we discover why.” I, like many of you, will begin my New Year’s with a resolution or two, knowing He can do what I cannot so my plan to reach my goal is simple… remembering the same words our Savior uttered to His Father, “…not my will, but Yours be done.” Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
“M
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!
KISSED WE HAVE
OUR 7th STREET LOCATION GOODBYE We will be CLOSED
January 7, 8 & 9 as we relocate!
BEGINNING JANUARY 12, 2015 We will be open in our NEW LOCATION at
1168 Hwy 71 South
(2 Doors South of The Chopping Block)
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January 7, 2015
Weekly Publication
MENA, ARK. – Arvest Bank is proud to announce that Damon Miller has been promoted to Commercial Banker for the Mena location of GRAVES YOUNG MILLER Arvest Bank. He has been with Arvest for over six years and previously served as the Branch Manager at the same location. Damon is a graduate of Rich Mountain Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration. He also attended the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. Damon is a member of the Mena Regional Support Foundation. Jennifer Graves has been promoted to Branch Manager. She was previously the Assistant Manager and has been with Arvest for 4 years. Jennifer is a Mena Chamber board member, member of the Lioness Club and serves on the council at The Crossing Church in Mena. She is an active volunteer for various community events throughout the year. Theresa Young has been promoted to Assistant Manager. She was previously the Financial Services Representative at the Mena branch. She has been with the bank for over a year. Theresa attended the Hadley School for the Blind as well as RMCC. She is a Mena Lioness member.
City & County Officials Sworn-In for 2015
NEWS
Arvest Bank Announces Promotions
BY MELANIE BUCK Polk County Clerk Terri Harrison swore in city and county officials, police officers, and firemen as 2015 begins, each taking an oath and promising to do their best. On New Year’s Eve, Harrison swore-in Mena Police Officers and Firemen at City Hall. Harrison also swore County and Municipal Officials in Polk County District Court on Friday, January 2. Do you ever wonder what all of these officials do? What are their responsibilities, whom do they answer to, etc.? Here you will find Polk County’s elected officials and a brief look into what we can expect from each. When looking at the pyramid of county officials, the County Judge is at the top. Polk County is led by County Judge Brandon Ellison. Ellison was re-elected to this position in November to serve his second term. Comparable to a CEO, the county judge is an executive branch position whose duties include, but are not limited to, county business manager, administrator, and road commissioner. The county judge also oversees the Quorum Court as a moderator but has the power of veto. The Quorum Court is made up of 11 Justices of the Peace (JP) and is the legislative body of government for the county. Each of the county’s 11 districts are represented by an elected JP. It is their duty to execute local legislative authority, fix annual salaries of certain county officials, and adopt ordinances necessary for the operation of county government, in addition to many more responsibilities. Collin One of the County’s newest officials, Polk Cannon, Harold Coogan, Ben Finley, County Assessor Jovan Thomas with Tommy Floyd, Tawana Gilbert, Margo County Clerk Terri Harrison. Kimp, Troy Lunsford, Jim Neugent, [MELANIE BUCK | PULSE] Basil Kesterson, Terry Terrell, and Terry Scott are the JPs of Polk County. The Circuit Clerk has the responsibility of recording and tracking civil, criminal, and juvenile divisions of the Circuit Court, in addition to recording deeds, mortgages, and powers of attorney. Polk County’s Circuit Clerk is Sharon Simmons. Terri Harrison is the County Clerk. Duties for this position include being the official bookkeeper of county records, tax books, voting activities including registration, and providing birth and death certificates to Vital Statistics. Harrison also serves as the clerk of several councils and committees including the Quorum Court, County and Probate
Congratulations Al & Marie Dominguez OF MENA, AR CHRISTMAS SALE RECLINER WINNER
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
NEW SELECTIONS
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PCDC Resale Store located @ 201 S. Morrow Mena, AR SINCE 1939! •• www.washburns.com
located @ 811 Eagle Gap Mena, AR
1020 Mena St. • Mena, AR 71953
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January 7, 2015
NEWS
Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Board Members Long to Lead in 2015
LONG
Weekly Publication
BY MELANIE BUCK GRAVES MASTERS FROST MAYE The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce will welcome four new board members for 2015: Jennifer Graves, Lisa Masters, Sonya Maye, and Debbie Frost’s terms began January 1, 2015, marking the first year of their 3-year term. Taking over the leadership of the Chamber in 2015 will be incoming President Cindy Long. Long previously served as the board’s vice-president and is a long-time business leader in Mena. Serving on the Executive Board for 2015 will be Long, President; Tammy Young, Vice President/President Elect; LeAnn Dilbeck, Secretary; and Jennifer Maechler, Treasurer. Remaining board members are Brion Dickerson, Katrina Rowe, Debra Bushman, and Past-President Chris Benner. Executive Director Paula Bailey invites all members to follow daily updates from the Chamber via Facebook: Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce or through their website http://menapolkchamber.com/. The Chamber office is located in the Mena Depot Center and may be reached by phone at 479-3942912.
Young Continues Count Down to 80,000 Releases with Bald Eagle and Barn Owl
BY MELANIE BUCK Wildlife rehabilitator Tommy Young nursed a young Barn Owl back to health with the help of sponsor Steven Stout, a Police Officer for the City of Mena. Stout was on patrol one cold night when a truck driver pulled into a local parking lot and discovered the owl was stuck in the grill of his big rig. Young was contacted about 2 a.m. to retrieve the owl. The driver said he remembered hitting the bird but did not realize it was stuck in his grill for more than 30 miles. After having a wing repaired, Stout, along with his 3 young boys, released the bird with Young’s assistance, at the Visitor’s Center on Rich Mountain. Last week, Young was contacted regarding an American Bald Eagle in a field just south of the old Pine Bowl. Upon reaching the national bird, Young discovered that the female Bald Eagle had orange ‘hay baling’ twine tangled around her feet in a ball, bigger than a softball, keeping her from taking flight. There were reports of the bird being in the field for 2-3 days, meaning she couldn’t fly, and she couldn’t retrieve her own food. The endangered species’ mate was close, keeping an eye on her throughout the ordeal. Young said Bald Eagles will typically keep a mate for 50-60 years. Mena Police Officer Steven Stout is Young explained that this is a common occurshown with Tommy Young on rence since many balers will pick up the wads of December 19 releasing a Barn Owl string and ‘throw it up on a fence post,’ not thinkthat Stout sponsored throughout its rehabilitation. ing of what harm it may cause to an animal. Young would like to remind people to think of our feathered and furry friends before disposing of seemingly harmless objects.
New Color for the New Year... or maybe a Perm! CONCLUSION ON PAGE 9
Call TODAY for your appointment 479-394-2225!
LYN WATKINS 206 N. MORROW
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Weekly Publication
Judge J.W. Looney has been appointed by the Governor of Arkansas to serve as District Judge after retiring from Circuit Judge on December 31, 2014. Judge Looney served as Polk County’s Circuit Judge for more than 11 years and will serve as District Judge for the next two years. Judge Looney’s career stretches back for more than 5 decades.
New Jail is Priority Number 1 for Polk County Sheriff Mike Godfrey in 2015
NEWS
Governor Appoints Looney as District Judge
January 7, 2015
BY JACLYN ROSE AND MELANIE BUCK “I have one goal for 2015: to get a new jail approved with a special election and to start building a new jail,” said Polk County Sheriff Mike Godfrey. Godfrey plans to spend the first part of the new year promoting a new jail. According to Godfrey, the current jail is over 30 years old and is no longer meeting state standards, even citing that the last inspection was “not favorable.” Godfrey explained that several jails in Arkansas have already been shut down, “and it won’t be long before they shut down ours.” Polk County’s jail is designed to hold 26 inmates and there are times that there are more inmates than there is space. “This creates an unsafe environment for the jail staff and inmates. If an employee or inmate gets injured due to overcrowding, Polk County could be found liable in a civil lawsuit. Jail overcrowding lawsuits are expensive to defend and often result in large judgements.” In a statement from last May, Godfrey explained, “Due to our limited bed space, Polk County currently has over 1,600 active warrants that can’t be served. The fines and fees connected to these warrants is $1.9 million. That is money that will go to the County and to pay restitution to victims.” Godfrey describes the new jail as “not better … just large enough to house the inmate population.” Godfrey proposed a new 100-bed pod system design that would also include the Sheriff’s Office as well as dispatch, a small courtroom suitable for hearings, infirmary, and a 309 Depository. The 309 Depository would be a possible reimbursable program from the State of trustees that are not from the area and he suspects would improve turnover. “A new jail will allow our department to separate prisoners based on the seriousness of offense and past criminal activities. Currently, felony inmates and misdemeanor inmates are often housed together. This creates a real safety issue that could ultimately result in inmate lawsuits against the county.” Godfrey said that criminals in the county are also keenly aware of the overcrowding issue and that they know all too well that unless they have committed a violent offense, they won’t be held in our jail for very long. “Because of this, a large number of them fail to pay their fines/restitution, refuse to do their community service, -SHERIFF MIKE GODFREY and fail to appear in court.” Godfrey expressed that a meeting will be held in the first quarter of 2015 followed by a special election for a one-cent sales tax to fund the project. Based on the current tax base, a 1-cent sales tax would yield approximately $2.2 million of which Godfrey is requesting 3/4-of-a-cent be allocated for jail construction and the remaining 1/4-of-a-cent budgeted for jail maintenance and operation. Godfrey said the 3/4-of-a-cent tax would dissolve once the jail was paid for but said, ideally, the 1/4-of-a-cent would remain and be budgeted strictly for ‘jail maintenance and operation.’ The Polk County Sheriff’s Department is now seeking land in a new location, at least 5 to 10 acres in size with utility hook-ups already in place. Godfrey said it is a daily juggling process to manage the overcrowding. And with a 6% inflation rate among construction costs and materials he said, “The longer we wait, the more it will cost to build a new jail.” If the proposal passes, Godfrey explained, “Then we will build it throughout the year so we can stop the overcrowding and start 2016 with a new jail.”
“
...Polk County currently has over 1,600 active warrants that can’t be served. The fines and fees connected to these warrants is $1.9 million. That is money that will go to the County and to pay restitution to victims.”
Roberta Northcutt
Moving to a new location 512 7th Street
(the former location of The Polk County Pulse)
beginning January 12, 2015
The Pulse has MOVED to 1168 Hwy 71 S (2 Doors South of The Chopping Block)
We will be closed January 7, 8 & 9 to relocate. We will reopen in our new location on January 12!
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NEWS
January 7, 2015
Weekly Publication
Despite Obstacles, Local Mission Team Delivers The Message to Haiti
WE DO
SUBMITTED BY ANDY RINER The plans for our weeklong mission trip to Haiti were impeccable. We had carefully packed our bags to meet airline rules. Each of our team bags weighed exactly 50 lbs, and --praise God-we were blessed with enough extra room in our baggage to shop for newborn diapers. Our team had clearly been assembled by God and tasked to execute a series of plans that were formed by months of prayer and preparation. The motivation to serve Christ in Haiti directed our plans. Each of the twelve who signed up to go to Haiti desired to show the love of Christ by serving the Haitian people. This vision spread beyond our team and captivated the churches of the Ouachita Baptist Association. Enthusiasm for this vision began to spill over to people who attended other churches. It was easy to build enthusiasm for Christian service in Haiti. Once people learned of the gut-wrenching plight of vulnerable women and children in Haiti, God placed Haiti in the hearts of many. And when God placed Haiti in their hearts, He compelled them to open their wallets. As we prepared to leave, each member of our team harbored great expectations. God had proven Himself faithful to each of us daily. We felt led to offer a medical clinic for women and chil- Seven area churches were represented in Haiti by Kelbie Reeves, Sandra Marney, dren in an isolated area, but we did not even have a nurse. We prayed, and God provided. In the Homer Frachiseur, Lisa Zanzeberg, Lambert Foster, Bernie Soliz, Becky Austin, earlier planning stages, we did not have enough members to make a team. We prayed, and God Roy Snider, Karen Snider, Rachael Snider, Andy Riner, and Candace Riner. provided. We felt led to offer a food distribution through a Haitian church. We prayed, and God provided abundantly allowing our team to orchestrate the largest food distribution that our Haitian partners had ever seen. Time and time again, God stirred people’s hearts and provided us with abundant resources to serve in Haiti. And finally December 15 arrived. But December 15 is when our plans began to fall apart. We had planned to leave no later than 1:00 p.m., check-in to our hotel early, shop for diapers, eat a good meal, pray together, rest well, and fly out the next morning. Instead of perfectly executing our well-laid plan, we departed late, got lost on the way • Commercial/Residential to Wal-Mart, suffered horrible customer service, had our flight schedule changed, ate fast food, drove back to the hotel, scowled at one • Contract Work another, and took a short nap. We thought, “tomorrow morning will be better because we will be in Haiti!” • Service Work It was difficult to sleep when we finally arrived at the JoyHouse ministries campus in Gressier, Haiti. We had so many things to • Provide Bucket Truck unpack and assemble. When you feel called to serve in Haiti, you lie awake at night, excitedly anticipating sunrise and the dawn of a and Backhoe Work humid Haitian morning. When the long-awaited first morning finally arrived, we could hardly wait to begin the 3 1/2 hour trip to L’Asile, • Generac Generator Dealer Haiti. We excitedly hopped aboard a cramped, stuffy bus bound for Macedonia Baptist Church in L’Asile. Everyone was excited • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES because we would soon see friends and finally get to work. Children needed to be invited to Vacation Bible School, expecting mothers needed to be invited to the medical clinic, and everyone needed to be invited to the revival! But nothing turned out as planned. Because of scheduling issues, our three night stay in L’Asile was cut a night short. Travel plans were altered due to a combination of wet weather and bad roads. Staffing plans were altered because one of our team members became ill and had to be taken back to Gressier. Now we found ourselves short an interpreter, a driver, and one of our valued team members. Everything was falling apart, but despite these difficulties we persevered, settled in, and completed our shortened schedule in L’Asile. Once we completed our abbreviated schedule in L’Asile, our plan was to leave around noon and get back to Gressier around 4:30.
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Haiti
Weekly Publication
January 7, 2015 (CONCLUDED FROM PAGE 6)
NEWS
Our contingency plan included one of our pastors delivering a message at a youth rally in Gressier. I watched with anticipation as he prayed, fasted, planned, and prepared. Perhaps God abbreviated our stay in L’Asile so we could see something great at the Youth Rally! After eating lunch, we loaded onto the bus and discovered that we were short one team member. The team member misunderstood our schedule and arrived an hour late. “No big deal,” we mused. Improving road conditions promised better travel time. But instead of getting delayed by mud, we waited twenty minutes as a driver completed vehicle repairs in the middle of the single lane road. Finally, as if anything else could go wrong, we were twice delayed by roadblocks on the highway. We finally arrived back at the JoyHouse campus just as the Youth Rally ended. We were off-schedule, frustrated, and tired! But with our schedule there was no time to mope. We had a medical clinic, discipleship classes, and a movie to prepare for the next day. So we hurriedly prepped, ate, and got ready to hit the ground running the next morning. But morning brought more opposition. Our plans changed again. Everyone became confused, frustrated, and off balance. Our team had built tremendous enthusiasm for our mission, but at this low ebb, many of us were tired, broken, and ready to be back in the United States. Finding ourselves confused, frustrated, and tired, our team had gone as far as our own desires, talents, skills, and abilities could take us. It was in that tired, frustrated confusion that God began to demonstrate that He was at work. Feeling sorry for himself, a tired, frustrated Elijah once said, “O, LORD, take away my life[.]” And when the tired, frustrated prophet listened, he heard God’s “still, small voice.” Today, we are no less fallen than Elijah, and Elijah’s God is the God who does not change. And although no one knew it, He was about to speak. We regrouped, broke into our various teams, prayed together, and went out for the morning. As we walked the steep hills, our Sovereign God began to use people and orchestrate circumstances to act as His still, small voice. Walking on a beautiful hill overlooking the sea, our interpreter thanked us for visiting, and shared with us that it encouraged him to see our team continue its work in Haiti. Later that morning, he invited us into a well-kept home to introduce us to a woman named “Madame C.” As we talked with her, we learned about her life. Recently widowed, she had five children ranging in age from an infant to a young teen. That morning, friends had taken the ailing infant to the clinic because a health issue prevented “Madame C.” from walking uphill. Suffering from depression, health issues, and dire need, she had no means to support or educate her children. Remarkably, “Madame C.” did not ask us to give her money or food, but instead tearfully asked for prayer and informed us that she was trusting God to provide for her family. The next day, we prayed, organized, and helped the JoyHouse church distribute food. The generous gifts of so many local churches and individuals supplied JoyHouse church with the resources to provide a blessing for its members. Each church family received 27 lbs of rice, beans, oil, sugar and other staples. Every child at church got a tub of peanut butter. It was encouraging to observe the Haitian church distributing the food, the Americans supporting their effort, and God receiving the glory. Seeing how our food distribution at the church blessed others, and remembering “Madame C.,” members of the JoyHouse church became inspired to start a food pantry ministry. That afternoon we traveled to an orphanage -- operated almost singlehandedly by a wonderful Haitian woman -- to spend some time with the children there. Because of the generosity of many people who supported us, her thirteen children got their only Christmas gift. We had a Vacation Bible School, played a game, and just enjoyed the blessing of getting to serve at the orphanage. As we rode the bus back to the JoyHouse campus, one of the interpreters, himself an orphan, shared with our entire team that it touched him to see our love for the children at the orphanage, “I have seen you live out the Gospel this week, not just talk about it,” he said. As I continue to ponder the lessons learned in Haiti, it has become increasingly clear that God’s still, small voice was not to be found in our fast-paced activities or in well-prepared sermons. His still, small voice could only be heard when I stopped to listen. God quietly used people and circumstances to say, “You don’t have all the answers; invest in people. Empower the Haitian churches to care for the orphan and the widow.” And His plan is the plan that I must execute. “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after Get’s you back where you belong. orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” James 1:27
“
...did not ask us to give her money or food, but instead tearfully asked for prayer...
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NEWS
January 7, 2015
Mayor
project is from state grants and the amount spent will depend on the amount received. The Mayor hopes to install new lighting and finish the faux brick pavers and sidewalks from Maple Street to Highway 71 on Mena Street, which is being funded with a grant from the Highway Department. The streetscape project is something that has been in the works for several years, however, as the Mayor pointed out, there’s only so much money to spend. The downtown arts district is blossoming and members of the district are applying for grants to help enhance streetscape features that are already in place. Among items expected to be purchased in the new year are a new fire truck for Mena Fire Department, which is to be paid for with cash. They have a total of 5 engines now. Mena Police Department will receive a new police car and the city will get a new dump truck as well. Hopes to build a restroom facility and storage area at the soccer fields in Aubrey Tapley Park were also conveyed by the Mayor. Mayor McKee said he is constantly working on bringing jobs to Mena, such as small manufacturing and retail, and say there are good prospects all the time. McKee also said Mena is one of the few cities that sales tax is up every year. He commended citizens saying he is “very proud of their conscious effort to buy locally. We have to work hard to stay self-sufficient and that’s what keeps us going.”
Wolf Pen Gap Decision
“
Weekly Publication
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE) ...very proud of their conscious effort to buy locally. We have to work hard to stay self-sufficient and that’s what keeps us going.” - M AY O R G E O R G E M C K E E
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE)
allowing continued use of nearly 40 of the 42 miles of trail during times of the year when it is most used by visitors,” said Oosterhous. “I greatly appreciate everyone's participation in this process to come to a workable solution. Nobody got everything they wanted, but at the end of the day, we found a way to make it work and stay open for use.” Currently 41.7 miles of roads and trails are available for OHV use at Wolf Pen Gap, either year-round or seasonally. Key components of Alternative I define a trail system with 39.6 miles of routes, including mixed use routes and seasonal designations. Designated routes will be open seasonally from the second Friday of March each year, through Oct. 31. Two holiday periods will open the trail system to OHV use: from three days prior to Thanksgiving through two days after Thanksgiving, and from Dec. 25 through Jan. 2. Monitoring will be an important factor in protecting natural resources, particularly during rainy periods according to the Wet Weather Management Plan, an appendix to the Environmental Assessment. The monitoring will help determine if the amount of rainfall is enough to result in damage to the maintained trails, or in increased sedimentation in nearby tributaries. If so, a temporary closure of the Not all bedroom sizes and locations are immediately available. trail, generally short-term, will occur. In addition to changes made to road and trail designations, a number of other actions MAXIMUM RENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: will occur within the next 5 years, including improvement of more than 269 stream cross3 BEDROOM $571.00 ings, construction of a foot trail to Hawk’s Gap overlook, installation of picnic tables at two 2 BEDROOM $423.00 vistas, construction of a pavilion at the North Trailhead, and obliteration and relocation of the “warm-up” trail at the West Trailhead parking lot. 1 BEDROOM $323.00 For more information on Wolf Pen Gap call 479-394-2382, or stop by the Mena Efficiency $309.00 Ranger District Office, 1603 Highway 71 North, Mena, AR.
The Polk County Housing Authority has apartments located in MENA, HATFIELD, COVE AND WICKES APPLICANTS ARE NEEDED
The family of Ethel Barrett would like to express our sincere gratitude to the many friends and relatives for the kindness and thoughtfulness shown to us in our time of sorrow. Words are inadequate to express our heartfelt thanks to those who did so much to help us during the illness and loss of our aunt and sister. Thanks so much to each of you who sent flowers or cards, called, visited, and most of all prayed for or provided support to us during this difficult time. Thank you to Vandervoort First Baptist Church and to all those who provided food for the family meal. We want to express our thanks to Tim Smedley and Kim McIntosh for conducting the service and to the beloved nephews who served as pallbearers. We also send a special thank you to Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab facility for the care given to Ethel and the family and to Beasley Wood Funeral Home for the wonderful service.
The family of Ethel Barrett
The Housing Authority pays the following expenses: Natural Gas, Water, Sewer and Garbage pickup.
ACTUAL RENT IS BASED ON INCOME
WE CONDUCT A CREDIT AND CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND APPLICANTS MUST MEET INCOME GUIDELINES. POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTIES ARE “SMOKE-FREE” ALL APPLICANTS ARE ACCEPTED ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS PHONE: 479-394-1565 or 479-394-1569 APPLY AT: Polk County Housing Authority 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR 71953
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Weekly Publication
NEWS
Roberts Ruled Competent by Polk County Circuit Court
January 7, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK AND LEANN DILBECK Death row inmate Karl D. Roberts was back in Polk County Circuit Court on December 26 in a competency hearing on whether or not he is able to make real-life decisions regarding the death penalty he received upon conviction in the 1999 rape and murder of his 12-year old niece, Andi Brewer. Circuit Court Judge J.W. Looney presided over the hearing and stated in his decision that Roberts is indeed “competent to knowingly and intelligently waive all rights to post conviction relief and has the capacity to choose between life and death (i.e. to elect execution) and to forego representation.” Roberts received the death penalty in May of 2000 from a jury of his peers in a trial that was presided over by Judge Gayle Ford. After his conviction, Roberts waived his right to appeal. However, on January 6, 2003, just hours before he was scheduled for execution, Roberts decided he wanted to seek an appeal and received a “stay of execution.” Since that time, he has remained incarcerated in a sea of legal maneuvering that resulted in the Arkansas Supreme Court re-opening his case on February 14, 2013. In Polk County Circuit Court on Monday, December 29, 2014 expert witnesses, Dr. Mark Peacock and Dr. Daryl Fujii, testified as to whether Roberts is competent or not. Dr. Fujii, a Clinical Psychologist of 22 years, from Hawaii, testified that he believes Roberts Mena Regional Health System Outpatient Clinics is not fit to make decisions stating that Roberts has “hallucinations” and is “delusional.” We can work with your physician to provide specialty services. Dr. Fujii, who hasn’t interviewed Roberts since 2013, said that Roberts fears getting raped in prison and that he also believes there is a conspiracy to mistreat him “from the prison Call 243-2148 for assistance in scheduling administration, down.” However, in Judge Looney’s decision, he stated, “While both Outpatient Ophthalmology Clinic: Dr. Thomas Wallace and experts described a diagnosis of schizophrenia, Dr. Peacock acknowledged that this did Dr. Jeffrey Holt from Wallace Eye Center, Hot Springs, not necessarily mean one is incompetent to make rational decisions.” Both expert witness Arkansas. Appointments scheduled through the Hot Springs doctors indicated that Roberts is “capable of rational decision making although under office. Call 1-800-794-5600 some circumstances affected by mental disease,” said Looney. Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner pointed out that Dr. Fujii’s last report on Roberts was Otolaryngology Clinic (Ear, Nose and Throat): Samuel written in 2011, even though the doctor had interviewed Roberts in 2013. Riner also pointVallery, MD Appointments are scheduled through the Hot ed out that in the report, Fujii seemed to “fairly heavily rely on what Mr. Lee (Roberts’ Springs office by calling 1-501-609-2300 attorney) had told” and that the doctor had referenced the lawyer almost 20 times in the Dermatology Clinic: Stough Dermatology, Hot Springs, document. Arkansas. Appointments scheduled through the Hot Springs Dr. Fujii said Roberts’ “decisions are not based on reality but his fears and illusions of clinic. Call 1-800-264-4247 getting raped in prison.” Riner said he felt that the thought of being raped in prison is not unrealistic fear, saying, “Prison is not a nice place.” Little Rock Cardiology Clinic: Carl Leding, MD, Little Rock After testimony was heard, the defense produced affidavits from six individuals for Cardiology Group conducts an outpatient clinic on the 1st and Judge Looney to take into consideration. Judge Looney took those to chambers to weigh 3rd Monday of each month. Appointments can be made by all of the evidence before he made a decision. In his report, Judge Looney said three of calling 1-800-264-5722 those affidavits were from people who had no recent contact with Roberts and were only Hot Springs Cardiology Associates: Mena Medical considered as historical information and the other three “add little to the testimony of the Associates, located at 1103 College Drive, offers a experts.” Included in the evidence was correspondence from Roberts, by letter, to Judge Cardiology Clinic on Tuesdays. Rotating specialists are; Dr. Eric Richard Kopf dated May 10, 2013 and letters to Polk County Circuit Court dated Bowen, Dr. Victor Castro, Dr. Gregory St. John, Dr. Jeffrey November 13, 2013; April 24, 2014; and May 12, 2014. After reading the letters Roberts Tauth. Appointments scheduled through the Hot Springs office had written, Looney stated, “He has made that waiver clear by his letter filings in this by calling 1-877-625-3403 court, which were cogent and unequivocal, and by his testimony of September 16, 2013.” Little Rock Vascular Clinic: Dee White, APN Appointments CONCLUSION ON PAGE 10
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Young
(CONT. FROM PAGE 4)
These releases bring Young’s total to 79,947, bringing him to only 53 away from his milestone mark of 80,000 releases in 30 years. Young would also like to remind everyone that the Arkansas Native Plant and Wildlife Center can always use your help. The non-profit center needs meat, mainly chicken, to help feed the animals through the winter. If you would like to help, make a donation, or sponsor an animal, contact Tommy Young at 479-4373750.
Page 10
January 7, 2015
Weekly Publication
NEWS
Roberts
“W
(CONT. FROM PAGE 9)
had written, Looney stated, “He has made that waiver clear by his letter filings in this court, which were cogent and unequivocal, and by his testimony of September 16, 2013.” Looney concluded, “The petition for Post-Conviction Relief filed by Defendant March 29, 2013 and the substituted petition of April 4, 2013 are hereby dismissed.” Roberts had stated in May 2003 that he understood he was under sentence of death and was effectively waiving his rights to seek further relief. Roberts further testified that nothing had changed regarding his ability to intelligently and knowingly waive his rights and that he was not under the influence of medication or any other substance in making this waiver. Judge Ford had then asked Roberts what he wanted to happen in his case having waived all of his rights of which he replied, “Well, I don’t think a guilty person should be allowed to live or he should at least be able to accept responsibility, his punishment…whatever it may be.” He affirmed to the court that he understood he was choosing death over life. With the Arkansas Supreme Court’s re-opening of the case, Roberts appeared before Judge Looney in September of 2013, and confirmed that he did not want the process to be delayed anymore and cited that he didn’t want to bring any more heartache to himself or his family to an already grievous situation. Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner asked Roberts that day on the stand if his decision to seek the appeal was “the right one,” in which, Roberts replied, “After everything me and my family has suffered through…no it wasn’t.” - KARL D. ROBERTS Judge Looney explained that while Roberts had fully expressed that he doesn’t want to pursue the appeal, the Arkansas Supreme Court had ordered that a more recent mental evaluation must be performed that concludes Roberts understands that he is choosing death over life. The mental evaluation that proved he was fit to stand trial was not sufficient or recent enough to satisfy the Arkansas Supreme Court therefore sending the case back through the court system and eventually bringing the decision handed down by Judge Looney on Tuesday, December 27, 2014.
ell, I don’t think a guilty person should be allowed to live or he should at least be able to accept responsibility, his punishment… whatever it may be.”
Judge Ellison
“I
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
’m looking forward to a new year. A new year is a great way to measure production, to set goals, and see if you reach them. I’m looking forward to a clean slate and to closing out the old budget and starting a new one.” - JUDGE BRANDON ELLISON
plete. He said that the Polk County Office Complex is in desperate need of a roof on one wing of the building. There is also work to be done on the County Court House. “This has been put off for several years, even before I came into office. Some of it is appearance and there are some water issues that have caused damage,” explained Ellison. He hopes to fund the project through the Arkansas Historic Preservation Grant. An analysis was done by the grant funders last year and they showed interest in the building, giving hope that Ellison can address the issue in 2015. Judge Ellison is also working on permanent funding through the PILT program. PILT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) are Federal payments to local governments that help offset losses in property taxes due to non-taxable Federal lands within their boundaries. Ellison conveyed that there is a large amount of federal land inside Polk County’s borders. Manpower from the county is used for maintaining roads, law enforcement, etc., on federal land, however, no property tax is paid, nor is it used for commerce. “We usually get a payment but because of the federal government issues with a budget, it’s not guaranteed. This makes planning our budget very difficult. My goal is to pester enough people, along with several other rural counties, to get it permanently funded,” explained Ellison. As 2014 is coming to an end, Ellison had this to say, “I’m looking forward to a new year. A new year is a great way to measure production, to set goals, and see if you reach them. I’m looking forward to a clean slate and to closing out the old budget and starting a new one.”
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Weekly Publication
Mena Regional Health System recently awarded Terri Schuller for being selected as the iCARE STAR Employee of the 4th Quarter. Terri was among many deserving employees nominated for the recognition. The iCARE program was developed in an effort to recognize those employees who exhibit integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence. “Terri has been a long term member of the MRHS team. She has always been a team player and supports the values and mission of the hospital. She has many outstanding traits, but one of the most admirable is her ability to remain unchanged, even when faced with adversity. She is a great role model and an outstanding employee.” Terri, wife of Mike Schuller, has been employed with MRHS for 26 years. She began her career as a part time assistant to the Director of Nursing, followed by a part time position as an assistant to the Secretary of Administration. She currently works full time in the Materials Management Department. As the iCARE Star Employee of the Quarter, Terri will be treated to a paid day off, reserved STAR Employee parking, a personal plaque and her name on the iCARE STAR Employee progressive plaque displayed in the hospital.
Mrs. Joyce L. Foster Stone, age 69, of Mt. Ida, Arkansas, passed away Thursday, January 01, 2015 at her home. She was born to the late William W. Foster and the late Myrtle Ruby Ryan Foster on July 22, 1945. She was married to Mr. James Lewis Stone. She worked in the retail business as a sales associate and spent her later years as a homemaker. Mrs. Stone was an avid reader and was devoted to her family as a dedicated mother and grandmother. She will be greatly missed by them and those who knew her. She is survived by husband, James Lewis Stone of the home; sisters, Audrey Singleton and Betty Parnell; children, Delbert Roy Parnell, Brenda Kay Blevins, Linda Sue Chambers, James Michael Stone and Diana Lynn Ingram; 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and 2 greatgrandchildren on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Myrtle Foster, 2 brothers, Charles F. Foster and Delbert Jackson Foster, a grandson, Brett Allen Wheeler and a great-granddaughter, Liliaina Leann Wheeler. Funeral services will be Monday, January 5, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Tommy Jones officiating. Interment follows in Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Sunday evening, January 4th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Brandon Blevins, Charlie Chambers, Joshua Stone, Mike Ingram, Joe Quinn and Jacob Thew. Online obituary available at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3)
Courts, and the Election Commission. Jovan Thomas is the newly elected Tax Assessor. Thomas has worked in the Assessor’s office for more than 17 years and took the place of long-time Assessor June Wiles. The primary role of the assessor is to assess real estate and personal property taxes. The Polk County Sheriff and Tax Collector position is held by Mike Godfrey, who was uncontested in November’s election and has been Sheriff since 2011. Godfrey is in charge of the county jail, serves as bailiff for the courts, and is principle in collecting taxes to turn over to the County Treasurer. The County Treasurer is Tanya Fretz. The treasurer is responsible for distributing all funds collected by the county. The Circuit Judge presides over a wide range of civil and criminal cases in a court of law. Judge Jerry Ryan has been newly appointed to this position after serving as District Judge for 25 years. Judge J.W. Looney, who just retired from Circuit Judge, was immediately appointed to the position of District Judge, presiding over misdemeanor, traffic violations, ordinance violations, and small claims cases. City governments work much like county government although the titles change. The mayor is head of city government. In Mena, that position is held by George McKee. Hatfield is headed by Larry Strickland and Cove is led by Joan Headley. Terisia Hartley is Mayor of Vandervoort, Leon McCleskey is Mayor of Wickes, and Dwight Billings is Mayor of Grannis. City Councilmen and Aldermen are the governing bodies of municipalities; they are much like the Quorum Court, but only presiding over their respective cities. Each municipality has several Aldermen, depending on population. Constables are also a part of local government. A Constable’s primary responsibility is keeping the peace. There are many more officials in the county that make sure the system runs as smoothly as possible. Anyone who has a question or concern, or would like to know which Alderman or Constable represents their may contact the Polk County Clerk.
DOUGLAS BRUCE THOMPSON
OBITUARIES
JOYCE L. FOSTER STONE
Officials Sworn-In
NEWS
Schuller Honored by MRHS
January 7, 2015
Mr. Douglas Bruce Thompson, age 72, of Mena passed away Saturday, January 3, 2015 in Mena. He was born November 25, 1942 in Damariscotta, Maine to the late Maynard Thompson and the late Martha Hatt Brewer Thompson. He was happily married to Debra Hataluk Thompson for 39 years and served his country in the United States Navy. He was in charge of the Board Camp Baptist Church Food Distribution Program, which was dear to his heart. Douglas was interested in computers and had set up many websites. He also loved to do wood working, fishing, and most of all, was very active in his church. He was a loving and kind Christian husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed. He is survived by wife, Debra Thompson of Mena, Arkansas; son, James Thompson and wife Cheryl Thompson of Windsor Locks, Connecticut; daughters, Kelly Thompson of Mena, Arkansas, Alecia Thompson of Mena, Arkansas; five grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Maynard and Martha Thompson, two sisters, Marsh and Deborah. Mr. Thompson was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Donations may be made to the Board Camp Baptist Church Food Pantry in Board Camp.
Page 12
CITIZEN
January 7, 2015
Larry Stricklin - Leading Family and Citizens
Weekly Publication
BY JACLYN ROSE Born and raised on Hatfield’s Six Mile Creek in Lone Valley, Hatfield Mayor Larry Stricklin has dedicated his life to his much loved town. “Everyone may feel this way about their childhood, but I get melancholy when I think back about how good we had it. We all grew up centered around my Mamaw Iva’s house. All of my cousins and I worked together and played together and there was always enough to play baseball. It really was a Norman Rockwell type childhood,” explained Stricklin. “When momma and daddy both had to go to work I developed my fondness for cooking. I always made sure I had supper on the table when they got home from work,” said Stricklin. His cooking skills, as well as his knowledge of meats and vegetables, would create a foundation for most of the work Stricklin would do in his life. In 1969, while a senior in high school, Stricklin went to work for the Hughes Brothers’ Meat Market in Potter. “I was extremely shy and bashful, which I know is hard to believe, but I was always around kinfolk and I didn’t have to know how to make friends and influence people. So working behind that meat counter really helped me learn how to talk to people. I know it’s hard to imagine now, but back then, Potter was like a hub with 2 grocery stores and the meat market and the sale barn always going. I would work 60 hours a week for 60 dollars, and I knew this would be my career,” Stricklin explained. Shortly after graduating from Hatfield High School, Stricklin joined the Army National Guard, where he would serve for 20 years. “When I got back from boot camp the meat market was closed so I went to work as a produce manager in Mena. Then from 1976-1982, I had Larry’s Grocery in Hatfield. At one time, we had up to 10 employees and lots of my family working with me,” said Stricklin. From there, Stricklin worked 6 years as a USDA Poultry Inspector and in 1988 he leased Boyd Smith’s Meat Market. Through the years, Stricklin has owned six businesses including, Larry’s Corner in Mena and Simple Simons in Hatfield. “Tommy Fowler bought that shopping center where Atwoods is and I bought the service station from him and it was so great seeing that shopping center come to life. He did a great thing for our community. I really met a lot of people from Mena at Larry’s Corner. I know everyone from the south and it was great getting to know people from the north,” said Stricklin. Recently, Stricklin has retired and is taking the time to slow down and really enjoy life with his wife, Mona, and their 10 grandkids. “Mona and I married in 1988, she really gave me a new lease on life. I think probably at the end of it all, the greatest accomplishments in life are your kids. We have five: Tonya, a Mena High School Counselor; Toni, a librarian in Oklahoma; Beau, a Captain in the Army National Guard; Tasha, who is headed to law school; and David, a truck driver who loves what he does. They are great kids and they take good care of me,” said Stricklin. With a great affection and dedication to the city of Hatfield, Stricklin has served the city for 25 years, with 16 of those being Mayor. Newly re-elected, by the end of this term, Stricklin will have 20 years as Mayor of his hometown. “I had a lot of concern of Hatfield just folding up when we lost the school, but Hatfield has done well. I think it has become the place in between the two new schools and it is going to survive. In the years I’ve been with the city, so much has changed and grown thanks to the city council and the people. We’ve established a park, we have the old gym to use as an auditorium, we have a backhoe and a dump truck, and the Jubilee in June, which is an awesome event. This Christmas we established the Christmas Caroling and we have plans to really expand this in the future. I think a lot of people are nostalgic and long for the past,” said Stricklin. “The people and the heritage and memories are what make this area wonderful. We have great creeks and rivers and mountains, but the people take care of each other. If you let the people in Polk County know you have a need, they are going to take care of you, even if they don’t like you,” said Stricklin with a laugh.
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Page 13
January 7, 2015
Weekly Publication
BUSINESS
Polk County Developmental Center Inc. (PCDC) - 40 Years of Advocacy
BY JACLYN ROSE Polk County Developmental Center, Inc., (PCDC) was organized in 1972 by a group of concerned parents and citizens. With a focus on teaching and training individuals with disabilities, PCDC began inside Mena First Baptist Church and opened the doors on their first facility on Amsterdam Street in late 1976. At the time there were seventeen adult clients, five preschool children and seven employManufacturer ees. Over forty years later, PCDC currently serves forty-three adult clients, thirty-three preschoolers of Quality CNC Parts and has sixty-five employees and five volunteers and serves individuals in Polk, Scott and Mongomery counties. 479.394.4248 Executive Director Mary Curtis started with PCDC twenty-five years ago as the Director of Avants 104 Port Arthur Avenue Group Living Center, Inc., a residential facility for developmentally disabled women. “Avants is an Mena, AR 71953-3344 area we hope to expand in the future. It is a learning center where women are taught to do everything we do in our home. We have to clean and buy groceries, we have to pay bills and go to the beauty shop. This helps women transition into assisted living apartments and some into independent living,” explained Curtis. After her time at Avants, Curtis moved to manage the Resale Store, located on Morrow Avenue. The Resale Store was added in 1985 to provide worktraining skills for the adult clients. “Our adult clients do all the pricing, tagging and hanging of the clothes in the Resale Store. They are paid twice a month and are tax paying members of society. This is about self-worth and confidence and being a productive member of society,” Curtis said. With space an issue within the PCDC Resale Shop, the business recently opened a new space, Just for Kids Resale Store at 811 Eagle Gap, in a building previously used 703 F Hwy. 71 North for storage. Mena, AR 71953 The Resale Store brought with it a new project and the recycling center was developed to work in conjunction to the store. “We go out and pick up recy(479) 394-7766 cling in 125 businesses, the college and the schools. There is no charge to the businesses and this provides more paying jobs for our adult clients,” explained Curtis. PCDC also offers paper shredding for thirty cents per pound. At the beginning of PCDC, Jumpstart Preschool was formed. It specializes in the educational needs of developmentally delayed children. These children are referred in many different ways: medical doctors, state childrens’ FULL ATV workers and even parents who are concerned about the development of their children. In August of 2014, PCDC SERVICE purchased the former Education Station facilities and moved their preschool services to the new location at 1314 & REPAIR Amsterdam Street in Mena. This addition has allowed Jumpstart to accept 811 4th Street, Mena 479-385-2136 or 479-385-1085 any child and has promoted early integration for the developmentally Hwy 71N/Hwy 88E Junction Mon.-Fri. 8:30 am - 5 pm • Sat. 8:30 am - 1 pm (Behind Terminix) delayed with typically developing children. 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY In December of 2014, PCDC opened the Adult Education and Wellness Center at 1410R Amsterdam Street, in their former Jumpstart location. The Doty updated facility now has three separate classrooms where there was formerConstRuction ly one, and allows for a lot more one-on-one learning. PCDC is a private, non-profit organization and is funded largely through Qualified Builder the Arkansas Medicaid program, as well as the local recycling and resale Over 15 Years Experience “Serving your families with store sales. Fundraising and the Dignity & Care for over 80 years” Call us TODAY! generosity of local individuals, busiSelected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent 1-479-216-3555 nesses and clubs, and some grants, Member of the National Funeral also help fund PCDC. 1-479-437-3304 Directors Assoc. “This organization is about ‘we,’ it 611 Janssen, Mena, AR robert@dotyconstruction.net takes all of us from the preschoolers (479) 394-1310 and their parents, the clients, the volunteers, the bus drivers to get up early to pick up preschoolers, everyone plays a part. Without our community, we wouldn’t exist. Last year we were awarded the Business of the Year from the Chamber of Commerce and we are very proud of that. I think I have learned more than anyone in my time with PCDC, the clients have taught me so much,” explained Curtis.
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Page 14
AT THE CAPITOL
January 7, 2015
Legislator Pre-File Bills in Anticipation of 2015 Session
BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE LITTLE ROCK – Legislators have begun pre-filing bills in anticipation of the regular session that begins January 12. Measures filed in the Senate include a bill to restructure lottery scholarships, in order to maintain the long-term financial viability of the system. Changes to the lottery system are Senate Bills 3 and 5. Also, a shell bill to lower taxes for middle class wage earners has been filed. It is Senate Bill 6. Another measure, Senate Bill 4, would streamline the process under which terminally ill patients can use experimental medications. Senate Bill 2 would implement the constitutional amendment approved by voters in November to require legislative approval of state agency regulations. Measures filed in the House of Representatives include House Bill 1002, to implement the constitutional amendment that restricts contributions to political candidates by corporations and labor unions, and that also restricts gifts from lobbyists to elected officials. The amendment was approved by voters in the November election. HB 1003 targets light pollution. If enacted it would regulate streetlights and outdoor lighting fixtures to reduce glare and minimize their impact on nocturnal wildlife. Also, reducing nighttime glare would benefit astronomers who study outer space. HB 1004 would require electric utilities, under certain conditions, to compensate customers who generate power. It would promote electricity production by industries that have the technology to install generating capacity. HB 1012 would allow close family members of the victim to witness the execution of persons convicted of capital murder. There are now 31 men on death row in Arkansas. The most recent execution in Arkansas took place in 2005. HB 1008 is still in shell form. According to the bill title, it would regulate the fairness of bidding practices used for construction of public projects. In addition to proposed bills, proposed constitutional amendments have been introduced. One that originates in the House would call a constitutional convention, if the legislature refers it to the ballot and it is approved by a majority of voters in a statewide election in 2016. Senate Joint Resolution 1 would change procedures in courtrooms and civil claims. It also would have to be approved by voters. When the legislative session convenes on January 12 the bills will be referred to the appropriate committees, where lawmakers will review them in detail and the public will be given the oppor5 tunity to speak on them. In the 2013 regular session, a total of 2,492 bills were filed – 1,300 in the House and 1,192 in the Senate. Of those, 1,520 became law. Highway Projects Postponed The state Highway and Transportation Department has removed projects costing an estimated $30 million from its January bid list, because of concerns about whether federal funding will be available to complete them in a timely manner. Due to inaction by Congress on a long-term highway bill, state highway departments are slowing their building campaigns. The director of the Arkansas department said that the federal government is putting states in a real bind because of lingering questions about highway funding.
The Pulse has moved to 1168 Hwy 71 S.
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
efforts over the last several months. I believe that they're now doing everything feasibly possible to get the lodge open. A committee meeting at this point of the project would just be a waste of taxpayer funds. I want to make one thing perfectly clear. This lodge closed on March 5th, 2012 and was supposed to be completed in 2013. It is inexcusable that our region has now been without one of our major economic engines for nearly 3 years. There has been gross mismanagement, a lack of urgency and a myriad of incompetence since this project began. I am not at all happy with how this project has been handled on multiple levels and will seek a complete accounting when the project is completed. For now, my focus will continue to be on getting the facility reopened to the public. At this time, I’d like to share the most recent update I received from the Director of Arkansas State Parks. "As it’s been a while since our last update and with the details worked out on the kitchen renovation plan, we have a revised estimated completion date for the project. When we entered into the takeover agreement with Travelers Insurance (Travelers), the estimated completion date was November 30, 2014. We knew that date could change, based on the unknowns that might be encountered during the mold abatement process and the time required to complete it. Due to improper installation of the building’s vapor barrier (Tyvek) by Wade Abernathy, Inc. (WAI), which caused a voiding of the window warranty, along with the vapor barrier’s deteriorated condition, Nabholz Construction Services (NCS) had to replace the Tyvek and windows in order to comply with the construction contract warranty. This extended the contract work several weeks and was a primary step required to undertake closing in the building for commencing the mold remediation work. Additional mold remediation treatments were required, including completing the second floor ceilings, in order for the building to pass the mold tests set forth in the abatement plan. This also added days to the contract. Based on the above unforeseen conditions and the additional mold remediation work that also required more time, the November 30, 2014 completion date was not possible. At our August 7, 2014 teleconference/meeting with all concerned at the Attorney General’s Office, NCS reported their revised completion date was approximately February 7, 2015. As funding was not available to renovate the kitchen at the time the original contract was awarded to WAI, my staff noted it was time to reconsider the priority of remodeling the kitchen (to include replacing deteriorated equipment and reorganizing the kitchen floor plan, flipping the dishwashing area with the food preparation area to improve efficiency and customer service). Travelers, NCS, ADPT, our architect Robin Borne, SPRTC Commissioner Bill Barnes, Rep. Nate Bell, and others met at the lodge on September 12, 2014 to review the project’s process and the kitchen remodeling proposal. With the kitchen remodel added, the revised estimated construction completion date is April 27, 2015. Once we have a substantial completion date from NCS, which will allow ADPT to occupy all interior spaces, we will be prepared to open to the public 60 days from that date. That puts an opening in late June, or sooner if the substantial completion date is earlier. We will work with Travelers/NCS to expedite a partial substantial completion date for the lodge rooms (based on their original estimate of February 7th), that will allow us to store lodge room furnishings that are scheduled to arrive in February 2015. Our plans are to hold a media day in advance of opening, along with inviting area officials, legislators, etc., for a tour and meal. We also plan an official public re-dedication ceremony during the State Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission’s July 15-16, 2015 meeting."
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ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S. For information call 3947396 or 234-5419. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church in the basement. Monday, 1/12 * 5:00 p.m. – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), Hatfield City Hall. For more information call 870-389-6678. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo, American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 6:00 p.m. – FREE Weightloss Warriors – First National Bank across from Depot. For information call 4373560. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church, Everyone is welcome to attend. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – 12 +12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 2345419. Tuesday 1/13 * 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission will be open in the 9th Street Ministries building. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. –“Art Day”, Mena Art gallery, 607 Mena Street. Bring your current project and join other artists working in the classroom at the gallery. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – FREE Delicious Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen, Mena Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk Rd 43 (Fairground Road), Mena,, 479-394-7404. Take –out is available. All are welcome! * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters in Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 1:00 p.m. – Polk County Sociable Seniors monthly lunch, Papas Mexican Café. Everyone over the age of 50 is welcome. Question for the day is: What is one of your favorite quotes? Come smile and get acquainted with us. For more information, call Diane, 243-0191. * 5:15 p.m. – Cyclists and Walkers: The Ouachita Cycling Club meets at the Visitor’s Information Center on Earthquake Ridge. Please come join us. Everyone is welcome. * 5:30 p.m. – Second Tuesday Book Club meeting, Christ Episcopal Church, Annex Building, 809 Church St. Always looking for additional members. For
January 7, 2015
more information and details, call 234-1482 or 234-3043. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S, Mena. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. For information 479234-2887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday 1/14 * 12 Noon – Mena Lioness Lions Club monthly meeting, China Restaurant. For more information, please call 243-3752. Guests welcome. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – Book Study, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 234-5419.
CALENDAR
BEATS
* THE MHS CLASS OF 1959 monthly luncheon will be at Country Express at 11:30 a.m. Spouses and friends welcome. Questions call 394-6221. HUMANE SOCIETY * MEETING - January 15, 5:30 p.m., Limetree Restaurant. Annual election of new board. Call 479-243-0771. * MENA ART GALLERY OPEN SHOW through February 3, 607 Mena Street. Regular gallery hours Tuesday 11 a.m.2 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. * THE POLK COUNTY FAIR AND RODEO ASSOCIATION will be having a workday this Saturday, January 10th beginning at 9:30 a.m. We will be cutting brush from the North side of the fairgrounds. Bring your chainsaws, pruners, gloves, and come give us a hand. * 2015 POLICY FOR FUNDING AND OTHER REQUESTS MENA ADVERTISING & PROMOTION COMMISSION: The Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission assists other organizations whose projects or events are with the Commission’s mission of promoting and enhancing Mena for tourism. These funds are available based on the Commission’s budgetary ability and on its judgment about the project or event’s merits. Applications are available for organizations who are interested in applying for this type of assistance. Requests should be submitted in writing no later than January 23, 2015. All requests are to be addressed in writing to the Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission on forms provided. Fully completed applications may be left at City Hall. Final approval of requests will be by vote of the Commission. Approved requests will be paid based on verifiable invoices presented. Please send completed grant application to: Mena A & P Commission, William Rainey, A & P Chair, 520 Mena Street, Mena, AR 71953. If you have any questions, please call 479-394-8355 or e-mail candace@visitmena.com. For a downloadable application, visit www.visitmena.com
Thursday, 1/8 * 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Polk County/Mena meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 216-3383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more info. * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters In Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:30 p.m. - Weight Watchers - meet at Dallas Avenue Baptist church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous – meeting at Saint Agnes Church in the basement. * 7:00 p.m. - Polk County Genealogy Society meeting, Polk County Library, 410 8th Street. Friday, 1/9 * 1:00 –3:00 p.m. – Fiber Group will meet a Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Come and bring your project and join this group working with a variety of fibers. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Writer’s Guild meeting, Mena Art Gallery classroom, 607 Mena Street. Admission is free. * 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting - 812 Hwy 71South, Mena * 8:00p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71S, Mena, For info call, 394-7396 or 234-5419. Saturday, 1/10 * 8:15 a.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 Breakfast Bible Study, Limetree Restaurant. Public is invited. * 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Ouachita Photography Club meeting, Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Bring your photos to share or just come and see what other photographers are doing. Everyone is welcome. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Children’s Art Class, Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street, 6-12 years old, $2 per child to help cover the cost of supplies. Please call to reserve a spot for your child (class size is limited to give children individual attention. 479-394-3880. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena, For info, call 394-7396 or 234-5419. Sunday, 1/11 * 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous,
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LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
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ARTS
January 7, 2015
es.
Ouachita Little Theatre Selects Director for “Eyes of the Apostle”
BY RUDI TIMMERMAN The spring production at the Ouachita Little Theatre will be “Eyes of the Apostle” written by Donley Hesse. It will hit the boards starting March 20, 2015. This passion play will be told using the Biblical accounts as viewed by the Apostle John. “Eyes of the Apostle” will usher in Easter celebrations a week after the show clos-
A production of this magnitude, having as many as 50 in the cast, will require a level of dedication above and beyond what is normally expected from the production crew. OLT is excited and proud to announce the show will be directed by Scott O’Rear. Scott is the preacher at Hatfield First Baptist and he and his daughter, Katie, have appeared in a number of OLT productions. You may recall him from Bell, Book and Candle. Scott will have help from others at OLT. Brad Storey will be the Assistant Director, with Lamar Austin and Lorraine Timmerman providing script oversight. Marilyn Brown has accepted the job of costume director. Anyone wishing to volunteer to help Scott will be welcomed with open arms. Exact audition dates will be announced soon but will fall in the middle of January. Watch the OLT web site for details (oltmena.com). “Eyes of the Apostle” promises to be a great community event for young and old alike. Consider auditioning or at least mark your calendar to attend this great show.
2015 Intentions
Fiber Arts Classes, Anyone?
BY BARBARA M. TOBIAS In February, Mena Art Gallery will be hosting the 2015 Fiber Arts Exhibit. In conjunction with this, we plan to offer a variety of classes in fiber arts, but we need to know what interests you. We have artists who can teach knitting, crochet, weaving, spinning, twining, embroidery, and almost any of the “needle” arts. Whether you are a complete beginner or ready to move on to the next step in any of these fields, we'd love to help you with a class to reach your goals. If knitting is your thing and you already know how to knit and purl, maybe it's time to think about lace or mittens or sweater design. Spinning might be a long time desire: you can start with a drop spindle or jump right in with a wheel. Twining is a way to turn strips of fabric into a rug that has all the charm of your grandmother's kitchen or uses colors in a bold new way. And if we haven't yet thought of your particular interest, tell us about it and we'll see what we can do about finding someone with the skill to teach it. For those of you who are already deep into fiber arts, remember that the check-in day for this exhibit is Wednesday, February 4: we will be accepting entries from 10 am to 4 pm. You can download an entry form with all the rules from our website: www.MenaArtGallery.org. If you have not already seen the current “Open” show at the gallery, you don't want to miss this. There is some awesome work on the walls this month.
HOME AND GARDEN
By Kim Hughes, County Agent -FCS Did you notice I did not say “New Year’s Resolutions?” How many times have you made New Year’s Resolutions, only to fail to meet your high expectations, and then feeling bad about yourself? There must be something “wrong” with you if you can’t follow through on improvements you know you need to make in your life. There is nothing “wrong” with you! If you are like me, you just set your expectations too high and make ones that were impossible to keep. If it was easy, you would already be doing it, right? Let’s look at the word “intentions.” This means something you intend to do, but does not have the negative connotation as does the word resolutions. It is not as harsh, and indicates you will try to make changes. Over the past year, I have found that this works a lot better for me. One example is that by simply eating healthier and exercising almost daily, usually walking, has led me to lose several pounds. If a piece of cake was offered and I wanted it, I would eat it, and not beat myself up for “failing” to keep promises that I would never eat anything sweet again. This is just not realistic; at least not for me. Over the holidays, I had a lot of things I wanted to accomplish, but I also knew I would not be able to get them all done. I made my usual list of what to do every day and actually crossed off most of the items for the first day. But after that, plans went downhill! It’s a little hard to burn branches in the rain, and there sure were lots of things in my house I needed to go through. I sometimes wish I was the kind of person that can throw away a pile of magazines and papers that have been there for a year or more, but I just can’t make myself do it! There might be something I really need in there, or some special recipe that I can’t do without! Some of my jobs are ongoing and I knew I wouldn’t be totally finished, but I did actually get a lot done. Now I am back to work at the Extension Office, still intending to accomplish some of my jobs on weekends. But, you know, I’m not beating myself up for not getting more done. I’ve found it’s better to appreciate accomplishments and not dwell on things left undone. Happy New Year!
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MARBLES: AGGIE • ALLEY • BIRDS EGG • BOULDER • BUMBLEBEE • BUMBO • CATS EYE • CHINA • CLEARY • CLOUD • COMIC • CRYSTAL • FLAME • FLINT • GHIST HALF PINT • INDIAN • LUCKY TAW • LUTZ • MICA • ONIONSKIN • OXBLOOD • PEAWEE • POPEYE • PUREE • SHOOTER • STEELY
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January 7, 2015
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POLK COUNTY BIRTHS
at Mena Regional Health System
(StatePoint) The start of the New Year is often a time for resolutions and improvements to your daily lifestyle. While many people vow to lose weight or take a big trip, others might focus on trying to save money in the year to come. There are some easy ways to start saving now and develop smart shopping habits for the remainder of 2015. Plan Weekly/Monthly Meals Instead of impulsively buying produce and other perishable items while grocery shopping, try to make a plan for all your meals that week or month. By only buying what you need, you can save money at the grocery store and limit the opportunity for food to go to waste. Private Brands Another simple way to save money this year is to make the switch to private or store brands. Many items can be purchased at a fraction of the name brand price, and there is often little or no difference in product quality. For instance, Dollar General offers many private brand items at affordable prices with a satisfaction guarantee, which can help you to cut back on expenses without sacrificing quality. Digital Coupons You can score truly great deals by clipping coupons, but doing so can be a time consuming process. New digital alternatives can make the process less painstaking. One example is Dollar General’s digital coupon program, which lets users create a profile where they can pin the coupons most relevant to them. You can have instant savings on your cell phone or computer for items you use the most, without ever touching a newspaper or pair of scissors. This new year, resolve to make a few small changes to your shopping habits that can create big savings in the long run!
CUTEST PET PIC Buddy
Buddy is a very energetic 8 month old Doxie/Jack Russell. He loves to cuddle and play. His family is David and Felicia, Alyssa, Ethan, and Sarah.
Please share your favorite photo of your pet. You may drop it off or mail it to: The Polk County Pulse 512 Seventh St. • Mena, AR 71953 or email: ads@polkcountypulse.com
This week’s Cutest Pet Pic made possible by your friends at:
Casey and Andrew Long, of Caddo Gap, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 29th.
Desirae Chapman, of Mena, is a proud mother of a baby boy, born on December 29th.
FAMILY
Resolve to Adopt Cost-Cutting Shopping Habits in the New Year
Heather and Christopher Thacker, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 29th. Savanah and Rowdy Haynes, of Smithville, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 30th. Tatum and Laymen Hughes, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on January 1st. Kaitlin and Clyde Love, of Oden, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on January 1st.
Rachel Huser, of Mena, is a proud mother of a baby girl, born on January 1st.
Come in TODAY and register for your upcoming wedding! Check out our Christmas Merchandise Close-out
Crosley Appliances & Hardware
FREE Gift Wrapping 813 Mena St. • 394-3456 Open Sun. 10-2 • 7 Days A Week
Find the weekly sales circular and daily specials that will help you save even more at
MyPulseNews.com!
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SCHOOL
January 7, 2015
Acorn Elementary School Takes Trip Around The World
The students and staff of Acorn Elementary School took parents, friends, and community members on a trip around the world Monday, December 8th. This semester AES looked at the 7 continents of the world to discover similarities and differences in our cultures. We enjoyed learning about the food, customs, geography, famous explorers and inventors from other countries. The students displayed some of the projects and activities they participated in during this semester. The event was culminated in a musical entitled “It’s Christmas Everywhere”. We want to thank all parents, friends, and community members who helped during the course of this unit. Also, a big thank you to the foreign exchange students who came to the school to share first hand information about their country.
Vandervoort Elementary Students Receive Awards Bus Students
Vandervoort Elementary selected the following students as their December Bus Students of the Month: Laycee Burt, Jeremiah Cox, Kylie Owens, Charles Richardson and Meera Henry (not pictured).
Character Students
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Mena Public Schools Breakfast Menu Monday: 01/12 Pizza Bagel, Applesauce, Juice, Milk Tuesday: 01/13 Breakfast Chicken Biscuit, Pear Halves, Juice, Milk Wednesday: 01/14 Sausage Biscuit, Diced Peaches, Juice, Milk Thursday: 01/15 Pancake, Sausage Link, Applesauce, Juice, Milk Friday: 01/16 Cereal, Toast, Bananas, Juice, Milk Mena Public Schools Lunch Menu Monday: 01/12 Main: Burrito w/ Cheese, Lettuce/Tomato, Refried Beans, Salsa, Apple Wedges, Milk; Choice: Chicken Taco, Lettuce/Tomato, Refried Beans, Salsa, Apple Wedges, Milk Tuesday: 01/13 Main: Corn Dog, Garden Spinach Salad, French Fries, Apple, Milk; Choice: Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Lettuce/ Tomato, French Fires, Apple, Milk Wednesday: 01/14 Main: Chicken Noodle Soup, Crackers, Baby Carrots, Snickerdoodle Cookie, Pineapple Tidbits, Hot Roll, Milk; Choice: Chicken Nuggets, Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy, Baby Carrots, Snickerdoodle Cookie, Pineapple Tidbits, Hot Roll, Milk Thursday: 01/15 Main: Chicken Quesadilla, Tortilla Chips & Salsa, Refried Beans, Oranges, Milk; Choice: Hamburger, Tortilla Chips & Salsa, Refried Beans, Oranges, Milk Friday: 01/16 Main: Frito Chili Pie, Tossed Salad, Green Beans, Side Kick, Milk; Choice: Chicken Sandwich, Lettuce/Tomato/Pickles, Green Beans, Fritos, Side Kick, Milk Acorn Breakfast Menu Monday: 01/12 Sausage Roll, Fruit, Juice, Milk Tuesday: 01/13 Muffins, Fruit, Juice, Milk Wednesday: 01/14 Cereal, Fruit, Juice, Milk Thursday: 01/15 Breakfast Pizza, Fruit, Juice, Milk Friday: 01/16 Super Donut, Fruit, Juice, Milk Acorn Lunch Menu Monday: 01/12 Chicken Nuggets, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Fruit, Milk Tuesday: 01/13 Chicken Fajita, Lettuce/Tomato, Cheese, Salsa, Pinto Beans, Fruit, Milk Wednesday: 01/14 Baked Chicken, Sweet Potatoes, Corn, Roll, Fruit, Milk Thursday: 01/15 Burrito with Cheese, Tossed Salad, Cookie, Fruit, Milk Friday: 01/16 Pepperoni Pizza, Tossed Salad, Rice Crispy Treat, Fruit, Milk Cossatot River School Breakfast Menu Monday: 01/12 Muffin, Applesauce, Orange Juice, Milk Tuesday: 01/13 Pancake on a Stick, Craisins, Apple Juice, Milk Wednesday: 01/14 Cereal, Apple Wedges, Cherry/Apple Juice, Milk Thursday: 01/15 Breakfast Burrito, Pineapple Orange Juice, Milk Friday: 01/16 Super Donut, Orange Wedges, Apple Juice, Milk Cossatot River School Lunch Menu Monday: 01/12 Chicken Crispio, Cheese Sticks, Tossed Salad w/ Dressing, Peaches, Sugar Cookie, Milk Tuesday: 01/13 Soft Taco, Lettuce/ Tomato, Cheese, Salsa, Pinto Beans, Fruit Cocktail, Milk Wednesday: 01/14 Country Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Green Beans, Pears, Milk Thursday: 01/15 Chicken Strips, Macaroni & Cheese, Tossed Salad w/ Dressing, Mandarin Oranges, Roll, Milk Friday: 01/16 Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Lettuce/ Tomato, Pickles, Pork-N-Beans, Chips, Strawberries/Bananas, Milk
GEORGE S. DAVIS S TAT E F A R M A G E N T S I N C E 1 9 6 4 This weekly info proudly sponsored by:
Vandervoort Elementary selected the following students as their December Character Star Students of December: Preschool: Temperance Bell and Adan Garcia, Kindergarten: Laycee Burt and Wyatt Ross, 1st Grade: Gabe Bell and Jimmy Glenn (not pictured), 2nd Grade: Laci Dixon and Jenniffer Parker, 3rd Grade: Hunter Neal and Amy Gragg, 4th Grade: Mia Dixon and Nathan Watkins, 5th Grade: Rayleigh Dollarhyde and McKenzie Summit, 6th Grade: Kelly Parker and Ursela House.
Insure with a name you know STATE FARM INSURANCE 624 Sherwood Avenue, Mena, AR
479-394-4521 Res. 479-394-1895
January 7, 2015
AGRICULTURE
Plan Now to Grow this Spring!
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CARLA VAUGHT - COUNTY EXTENSION AGENT Whether you are a full-time farmer, a part-time farmer, or even a backyard gardener there are a lot of things you can be doing to prepare for spring and improve your efficiency with your enterprise. One of the most basic and most important practices is soil testing. December is the perfect time for soil sampling. The Soil Diagnostic Lab is never as busy in the winter as it is during the other seasons. This is a perfect time for you to take soil samples and submit them to our office. This will allow you to make decisions on soil amendments before the spring growing season gets here. Soil sampling is not difficult but you do need to do it properly to get the right results. Soil testing consists of providing a sample of soil representing a given area of growing space. It may be a raised bed, a pasture, the hay meadow, the garden spot, or even a lawn or orchard. If you were to go into your area and only take one sample to represent the entire area, you could easily get bad results. What if you randomly chose the spot where some kind of fertilizer was applied at some point? Or where some natural organic matter decomposed? The idea is to take a lot of subsamples from all over the area and mix them together to adequately represent that area. Soil probes are available to borrow from the Extension office or you can use your trusty spade or sharpshooter and a bucket. Take as many different subsamples from across the area as possible. Drop each subsample into your bucket. When you have zigzagged randomly across the area and feel like you have subsamples from the entire test site, mix the soil in the bucket really well and save a pint sample to submit to the lab. Be sure to label your sample with a name you will easily recognize on the soil test report. Bring your air-dried soil to the Extension office so that we can prepare and send it to the lab. Do not dry the soil with any artificial methods but it does need to be fairly dry or it will melt the shipping box we send it in. Air-drying works great. Once you get to the office with your sample, you will be asked several questions. We need to know what you are growing on it now, what you want to grow on it, how many acres it represents, and when (if ever) did you put agricultural lime on it. Once we get the questions answered, we will prepare it for its trip to the lab at Marianna, Arkansas. Soil tests are mailed a minimum of once a week. Once the lab receives your soil, it will go through the testing process. Based on what you said you wanted to grow, a computer generated report will be provided to you. The test report gives the amount of plant nutrients available in the sample you submitted. It gives the amount of phosphorus and potassium present in the soil and an estimation of the nitrogen that will be needed for the crop you will be growing. It also gives the pH of the soil and whether that pH needs to be raised with agriculture lime or lowered with sulfur. It also gives a reading on several of the micronutrients and minerals present in the soil. The best part of soil testing? It costs you nothing! The U of A Soil Testing lab is supported by a tax on bulk fertilizers. At this point, enough revenue is generated to fund the lab and provide the U of A Soil Testing program to Arkansas residents free of charge. Take advantage of this! It is one of the most effective management tools available to agriculture producers of all levels. If you have questions about this program or would like help with any agriculture enterprise, contact the County Extension Office at 211 DeQueen Street in Mena. Our phone number is 479-394-6018.
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January 7, 2015
POLICE
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 December 28, 2014 Jeffery Parnell, 54, of Mena was arrested and charged with driving with a suspended driver’s license. He was also cited for running a stop sign and having no proof of insurance. December 29, 2014 Matthew Dominguez, 25, of Mena was charged with theft of property (motor fuel) after a call from employees at a local gas station. December 30, 2014 A local woman reported that a Mena man threw rocks at her vehicle windows and jumped on the vehicle and hit the windshield with a rock, cracking the window. Case has been sent to the prosecutor for review and possible warrant. Devin R. Craig, 23, of Mena was charged with DWI, careless driving, and running a stop sign after officers responded to a report of a vehicle driving into the side of a local residence. December 31, 2014 Officers completed an accident report regarding the damage to a house that occurred when a vehicle drove into the side of the building. January 1, 2015 Toby Wayne Shores, 42, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant. January 2, 2015 A Mena man and his former girlfriend of Mena both filed reports that the other was making unwanted calls to their cell phones. The report has been sent to the prosecutor for review. A local woman reported that her cell phone was missing, possibly stolen. Case pending. Kevin Sullivan, 55, of Mena was arrested on two outstanding warrants for failureto-appear to pay fines and court costs. Ernest Ralph Gebhardt, 65, of Mena was charged with DWI and careless driving after a call regarding a vehicle in a ditch on
a local street. January 3, 2015 Jason Robertson, 35, of Mena was charged with disorderly conduct after a traffic stop. Officers additionally completed five accident reports. Polk County Sheriff’s Department December 22, 2014 Traffic stop on Highway 246 West near Hatfield led to the arrest of Codiallen L. Lopez, 30, of Mena, on Charges of DWI and Driving Left of Center. December 23, 2014 Report of a dog bite victim on School Street in Cove. The owner was advised to quarantine the animal for ten days. Report from complainant on Highway 8 West near Mena that someone had been staying in their vacant trailer. Investigation continues. Arrested was Marsha D. Denton, 30, of Mena, on Warrants for Forgery and 18 counts of Violation of the Arkansas Hot Check Law. December 24, 2014 Report from Mena Regional Health System of a domestic battery victim. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Polk 41 near the Potter community that one of their dogs had been killed. Officer determined that the animal had been run over in the county road. December 25, 2014 Report from complainant of the break-in and theft of electronics, valued at $520.00, from a storage unit on Highway 71 South in the Potter community. December 26, 2014 Report from complainant on Polk 95 near the Rocky community of an abandoned ATV in their fence. Owner was later located. Report of a domestic disturbance on Highway 71 South near the Potter community. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report of a structure fire on Polk 299 near Mena. Investigation continues into the origin of the fire. December 27, 2014 Report from complainant on Polk 68 near the Cherry Hill community of an attempted break-in to a residence, resulting in $25.00 damages to a door knob. Investigation continues. Arrested was Stevie G. Brinlee, 19, of Cove, on a Warrant for Theft of Property.
Report from complainant on Polk 76 East near Mena of vandalism to a gate, causing $130.00 in damages. Investigation continues. December 28, 2014 Report from complainant on Polk 18 near Cove of vandalism to a mailbox and post, causing $150.00 in damages. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on RCC Lane near Mena that several mailboxes had been tampered with and mail was taken. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked three vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 25 Incarcerated Inmates; 12 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a
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State Facility, of which 2 are currently out of jail on a monitoring system. December 29, 2014 Report from complainant on Elk Drive near Mena of $150.00 in damages to a mailbox and post. Investigation continues. Report of a disturbance in the Polk County Courthouse Courtroom led to the arrest of Greg Brewer, 46, of Hatfield, on Misdemeanor Charges of Assault 3rd Degree, Obstructing Governmental Operations and Resisting Arrest. December 30, 2014 No reports were filed. December 31, 2014 Arrested was Jason E. Tomblin, 36, of CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
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Moments from America’s History A Landmark of Religious Freedom
HISTORY
IN THE NEWS One Year Ago:
January 7, 2015
BY JEFF OLSON Friday, January 16th, is Religious Freedom Day in America. This date was chosen as such because it is the anniversary of the enactment of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, authored by Thomas Jefferson and introduced and carried through to passage in the Virginia General Assembly LOCAL by James Madison in 1786. It would do well for each of us to read this document in its entirety as it is 1. "Tinker" Combs Convicted & a remarkable declaration of intellectual and spiritual independence and one of the most venerated and Sentenced for Drug Trafficking influential documents in American history. The Statute also established a moral and legal precedent for 2. Polk County's First Baby of 2014 other states in codifying the protection of religious liberty, and it was instrumental in paving the way for 3. Goss Promoted to President of First enshrining this most important among all freedoms into the U.S. Constitution. Here, I hope to provide some perspective of the Statute's underlying principles and historical National Bank Mena Region context. This will also speak to Jefferson’s true concept of religious freedom which has been so misrepresented through the overused and mythiNATIONAL cal metaphor, “wall of separation between Church and State.” ore than a 1. Janet Yellen Confirmed As First When, on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved, it not only signaled political autonomy from the English crown, statute, it was an eloquent Woman To Lead Federal Reserve but also severed the colonies’ formal legal ties with the mother country. It 2. Sen. Lindsey Graham Tweets About manifesto of the sanctity was therefore necessary to bring the laws of the individual colonies into Emergency Landing comformity with republican principles and to remove the existing legal of the human mind and 3. WH Credits ObamaCare for Slow code of any remaining vestiges of Monarchial rule. Thus, in the fall of spirit.” Growth in Healthcare Spending 1776, a five member Committee of Revisors under the chairmanship of Thomas Jefferson was commissioned by the Virginia legislature to “revise, -- JAMES MADISON alter, amend, repeal, or introduce all or any of the said laws” of the Commonwealth. After a decade of arduous work, the final draft of the revised code included a total of 126 bills. Bill Number 82 of the Revisals, Jefferson’s “A Bill for Establishing Religious Freedom,” was the first of five consecutive bills dealing with religion. The preamble of Bill 82 reads in part "Almighty God hath created the mind free" and willed "that free it shall remain." In its essential parts, the bill enacted four things: no person shall (1) be compelled by civil government to attend or support any religious worship, place, or ministry, nor (2) be punished or restrained by the Commonwealth on account of his/her religious opinions or beliefs; but, on the contrary, every person shall (3) be free to profess and contend for his religious opinions and beliefs, and (4) such activity shall in no way affect his/her civil capacities. The Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom (Bill 82) proclaimed a cooperative link between religion and the state, suggested a flexible church-state model which promoted an accomodation between the interests of the church and the civil government, and it boldly affirmed the individual's right to worship God, or not, according to the dictates of conscience, free from governmental interference or discrimination. As one historian ably expressed it, "More than a statute, it was an eloquent manifesto of the sanctity of the human mind and spirit." James Madison stated that it "extinguished forever the ambitious hope of making laws for the human mind." As we look ahead to celebrating Religious Freedom Day, let's remember that it is also taking form as Religious Freedom Sunday on January 11th. What a great opportunity we have to celebrate such an important cornerstone of our nation's Godly heritage and do so within an environment of praise, worship, and gratitude to Almighty God for his legacy of blessings on our nation. And, above all, to humbly seek His face and forgiveness in our prayers for ourselves and our troubled land (2 Chronicles 7:14).
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At a local Burger King an elderly couple came in and ordered one burger, one order of fries and one coke with two glasses. When they got to their booth, the man placed a napkin in front of himself and one in front of his wife, then proceeded to divide the fries, cut the burger in half and divided the coke equally. A gentleman nearby noticed and offered to buy them another burger, fries and Coke. The woman then said, "No you don't understand. We've been married over 50 years and all our life we agreed to split everything right down the middle." Her husband then began eating, as she sat with her hands in her lap. The gentleman nearby noticed and asked the lady why she wasn't eating. She replied, "As I said before, we split everything right down the middle, and it's his day to use the teeth first."
January 7, 2015
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BY MELANIE BUCK Many Facebook users have been ‘up in arms’ over the last few days over a post that is making the rounds, not for the first time, and probably not for the last. The post reads like a legally binding contract. However, there are no signatures, and to the dismay of many, no legal bindings. Here is the post that has been shared by millions of users, that also caused hysteria in 2012: “Due to the fact that Facebook has chosen to involve software that will allow the theft of my personal information, I state: at this date of January 4, 2015, in response to the new guidelines of Facebook, pursuant to articles L.111, 112 and 113 of the code of intellectual property, I declare that my rights are attached to all my personal data drawings, paintings, photos, video, texts etc. published on my profile and my page. For commercial use of the foregoing my written consent is required at all times. Those who read this text can do a copy/paste on their Facebook wall. This will allow them to place themselves under the protection of copyright. By this statement, I tell Facebook that it is strictly forbidden to disclose, copy, distribute, broadcast, or take any other action against me on the basis of this profile and or its content. The actions mentioned above also apply to employees, students, agents and or other personnel under the direction of Facebook. The content of my profile contains private information. The violation of my privacy is punishable by law (UCC 1-308 1-308 1-103 and the Rome Statute). Facebook is now an open capital entity. All members are invited to publish a notice of this kind, or if they prefer, you can copy and paste this version. If you have not published this statement at least once, you tacitly allow the use of elements such as your photos as well as the information contained in the profile update.” The problem with the post is this: if you have a Facebook page, you have already agreed to let Facebook use, share, copy, and paste any information you have. When you agree to the ‘terms and conditions’ of any website, you’ve already signed a contract, generally one that gives the owner of the site permission to use what you have. In Facebook’s ‘Statement of Rights and Responsibilities’ they state, “You own all of the content and information you post on Facebook, and you can control how it is shared through your privacy and application settings.” In 2012, the same post was circulated to which Facebook responded by clarifying that for any content covered by intellectual property rights, like photos and videos, users grant Facebook a nonexclusive usage license if you post publicly. Snopes.com said in an article they posted, “Facebook isn’t claiming copyright to the personal information, photographs, and other material that their users are posting to the social network.” I’ll leave you with a word of advice… If you don’t want it seen or shared, then don’t post it or share it, and change your privacy settings, they work wonders! Until next time, Privacy Settings here we come!
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January 7, 2014
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UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1 ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID. Ad deadline is 5 p.m. on Monday. Payment is due with ad. Publishing and distributing 8,000 copies weekly.
For Sale: Solid Wood Espresso Console/Sofa Table with drawer and bottom shelf. In good condition. Asking $200. Call or text 479-216-3091. TFN/INH
Guest House, perfect for a single person or college roommates. $350 per month includes water, sewer, satellite TV, and wifi. Full Kitchen and bath with refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and washer/dryer. Would be willing to barter some yard work for part of rent. No deposit required with good references. Call 243-0837 1/7 or text 234-5770. Clean & Comfortable Housing since 1969, J Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals, Hwy 71N, Mena, 479-394TFN 1252.
Policy for Funding and Other Requests Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission The Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission assists other organizations whose projects or events are with the Commission’s mission of promoting and enhancing Mena for tourism. These funds are available based on the Commission’s budgetary ability and on its judgment about the project or event’s merits. Applications are available for organizations who are interested in applying for this type of assistance. Requests should be submitted in writing no later that January 23, 2015. All requests are to be addressed in writing to the Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission on forms provided. Fully completed applications may be left at City Hall. Final approval of requests will be by vote of the Commission. Approved requests will be paid based on verifiable invoices presented. Please send completed grant application to: Mena A&P Commission, William Rainey, A & P Chair, 520 Mena Street, Mena, AR 71953 If you have questions, please call 479-394-8355 or e-mail candace@visitmena.com. 1/7 For a downloadable application, visit www.visitmena.com.
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I buy Sterling Silverware forks, knives, and spoons. May be damaged but must be marked ‘sterling.’ I buy pre-1965 U.S. Silver Coins. Top prices paid for pre-1935 U.S. Silver Dollars and also one ounce rounds and bars. Dan’s Pawn, TFN 100 Hwy 71S at 1st Street, Mena, 479-394-5515.
Healthy Connections Job Opportunity. HCI is seeking Director of Grants and Development. For job description, 1/7 please visit our website at www.healthy-connections.org. Equal Opportunity Employer.
Mena, on a Warrant for Theft of Property. Arrested was Steven D. McKenzie, 54, of Mena, on a Warrant for Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. Arrested was Charles L. Houser, 58, of Wickes, on Warrants for Failure to Appear and five counts of Violation of the Arkansas Hot Check Law. January 1, 2015 Report from complainant on Highway 375 East near Mena of the theft of a dirt bike, valued at $5,000.00. Investigation continues. Report of an accident on Polk 47 near the Shady Grove community. The driver was airlifted to a Hot Springs hospital. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Allen P. Loving, 49, of Hatfield, on Charges of DWI, Careless/Prohibited Driving, Endangering the Welfare of a
Minor 2nd Degree and No Seatbelt. January 2, 2015 Arrested was Leatha L. Robey, 42, of Cove, on Charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance with Purpose to Deliver and Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance with Purpose to Deliver. Also arrested was Jennifer L. Caswell, 31, of DeQueen, on Charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance and Introduction of a Prohibited Article into a Jail. January 3, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 74 near the Ink community of the theft of a welder and trailer. The equipment was located and returned to owner. Report from a business in Hatfield of the theft of $10.00
Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair and painting. Small to medium jobs. Also lawn and garden 1/14 work. Call 870-334-2068. of motor fuel. January 4, 2015 Report of an accident on Polk 37 near the Potter community. Driver refused medical attention. Arrested was Joshua A. Ward, 37, of Mena, on Charges of Disorderly Conduct and Fleeing. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 22 Incarcerated Inmates; 11 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 2 are currently out of jail on a monitoring system.
The Pulse has MOVED to 1168 Hwy 71 S (2 Doors South of The Chopping Block)
We will be CLOSED January 7, 8 & 9 while we relocate and will reopen in our new location January 12!
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For Rent mobile home, 2 bedroom, 1 bath. No Pets. Call IN/TFN 394-4037 or 234-6062.
J & N Dozer – Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years experience. We Appreciate your Business! Call TFN 479-234-1357.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Over 75 Vehicles Under $9,999 2010 Chevy Cobalt Gentry Price: $8,900
2011 Chevy HHR Gentry Price: $8,900
January 7, 2015
2010 Kia Rio Gentry Price: $7,844 or $152*/Month * Payment based on $7,844 sale price at 5.99% APR for 60 months WAC
2006 Buick LaCrosse CXL Gentry Price: Pmt based on $13,900 sales $10,900 price with $500 down at
2009 Chevy Aveo Gentry Price: $6,990
2003 Ford F-150 Gentry Price: $8,900
2011 Nissan Versa Gentry Price: $9,900
2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Gentry Price: $4,900
2008 Dodge Caliber Gentry Price: $8,900
2007 Dodge Nitro Gentry Price: $10,800
2010 Ford Escape Gentry Price: $6,800
3.29% APR @ 72 months w.a.c.
2005 Chevy Impala Gentry Price: $5,400
www.GentryChevyInc.com entry hevrolet 801 West Collin Raye Dr. De Queen, AR 1-800-649-9929