July 19, 2017 by The Pulse

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July 19, 2017

THE POLK COUNTY

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

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MMS Awarded for Student Success

Board Camp Man’s Body Recovered in Chicot County BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com

The body of 52-year old Kevin Birdwell has been located after being reported missing on Friday, July 14th. Birdwell, a resident of Board Camp, was last heard from on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 when his girlfriend spoke to him via phone. When she could not reach him on Thursday, July 13, she sent neighbors to check on him on Thursday evening and reported him as missing on Friday morning. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

City Passes Resolution Supporting Internet Sales Tax

BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com Mena City Council passed Resolution 1339 on Tuesday, July 11, 2017 at their regular monthly meeting. The resolution supports proposed federal and state legislation to insure the proper assessment and collection of sales tax from all internet and online sales, no matter where that business is located. The Arkansas Municipal League asked each city in the state to pass a similar resolution and to send it to Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson to encourage him to call a special session for legislators to vote on the matter. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Investigators Searching for Answers to Phenomena at Board Camp Crystal Mine BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com

Mena Superintendent Benny Weston, Mena Middle School Assistant Principal Todd Coogan, and Mena Middle School Principal Cliff Sherrer, received an award presented by State Representative John Maddox. The Top Performance Award of $19,650 was received for Mena Middle School being one of 201 schools in the state in the top 10% of performance standards. Read more on page 6 of this issue.

Recently, Orville and Cheryl Murphy, owners of Board Camp Crystal Mine, invited a few close friends and the local media to witness some of the phenomena that has been taking place at their mine that has attracted investigators as well as Josh Gates, host of “Expedition Unknown” on the Travel Channel. Board Camp Crystal Mine will be one among other locations featured on a 4-part CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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. .July . . . . 19, . . . 2017 ....................................................................................................................... Weekly Publication

UARM Prepares for Fall; Foundation Prepares to Approve Scholarships

Rich Mountain Nursing & Rehab Evacuates Residents news@mypulsenews.com BY MELANIE WADE

BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com

niversity of Arkansas Rich Mountain is preparing for the 2017 Fall Semester and looks forward to providing resources to their students, who will now enjoy having the UA name on their future diplomas. Fall registration will run from July 31st until August 3rd, with the first day of classes being held on August 21st. To help with UARM student success, the UARM Foundation partners with the college to provide additional resources to students. “The mission is to partner with the private sector to provide scholarships and special projects to the campus,” explained Tammy Young, UARM Director of Development and Community Relations. Young added that some scholarships are major specific, such as art, journalism, music, media, medical field, communications, teaching, agriculture, EMT, nursing, business, some related to being a Rich Mtn. Electric Coop member, veterans or spouses and children of veterans, and many, many more. Criteria for the scholarships include: academic performance, grade point average, and financial need. Deadline for Fall scholarships is July 30th. To learn more, visit UARM, or call them at 479-3947622. As a reminder, Young stated, “As people think about giving back to help the students, the Foundation and their scholarships are a great way to do that.”

PHOTO BY MELANIE WADE The smell of smoke caused a quick response from workers at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Tuesday, July 18, 2017. The staff made a quick and efficient task of evacuating the residents, providing cold drinks and sheets for shade in the hot July sun. Mena Fire and Police Departments made a search of the building looking for the cause of smoke. Although no fire had been found as of press time, emergency personnel were still on the scene.

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July 19, 2017

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Flanary Presents Program to QOL Shelley Flanary, Cossatot River State Park Interpreter, spoke to Quality of Life Outreach at the monthly meeting, Wednesday, July 12, at noon at LaVilla restaurant in Mena. Quality of Life Outreach is a local group that promotes health, safety, and wellness in Polk County. (www. qoloutreach.org; PO Box 1135, Mena, AR 71953.) Cossatot River State Park offers wholesome and informative programs of interest to all age-groups and can tailor a program to the interests of a particular group. Park Interpreter Flanary detailed some of the many programs and projects on the calendar for this summer and beyond, which promote a healthy quality of living in southwestern Arkansas. (cossatotriver@arkansas.com (870) 385-2201)

Mena District Applies to State for Charter Virtual School BY MELANIE WADE • news@mypulsenews.com

The Mena School District held a public meeting on Thursday, July 13, to hear input from community members on the subject of a virtual online school they have applied for through the Arkansas State Department of Education. Less than two dozen were in attendance at the meeting comprise of mostly administration, faculty members, one school board member, and a handful of community citizens. Mena Superintendent Benny Weston began the meeting, explaining what a virtual school is, and why the district is eyeing such a possibility for the community. Weston said the state encourages schools to be innovative, such as their new cafeteria system, the alternative education hub, the virtual reality system at Mena Middle School, and a new ‘blended learning’ system that will begin with 9th graders this year. “In order to reach all learners, we have to do something to benefit them,” said Weston. “We are entering an ‘any time, any pace, any place’ educational experience,” which are exactly the benefits a virtual school provides and works much like a charter school. Mena has applied for a Conversion Charter School, which would allow students to fall under the district’s umbrella, but they would not have to attend the ‘brick and mortar’ schools, they instead would attend the Polk County Virtual Academy, a non-traditional approach to education. A virtual school consists of online classes that can be completed anywhere, as long as the student has internet access and a device to log on with. Lessons can be watched through videos, homework can be completed and submitted online, and students can work at their own pace. “Today, folks are graduating college without ever stepping foot on a campus,” Weston said. That same philosophy is now being placed on secondary education as well. As many parents and students choose homeschooling methods for a vast number of reasons, many would like additional assistance from the school. However, by state laws, unless the student falls under a district’s ‘umbrella,’ they are not allowed to provide assistance, only to the students who attend their ‘brick and mortar’ schools. Under a virtual school plan, which would be called the Polk County Virtual School, those students could enroll into Mena’s district, and still maintain their own schedule. Assistant Superintendent Jeannie Smith explained, “Some students may take an entire twelve months to complete the 4th grade, but others may take six months to complete the 4th and 5th grades.” They would also be allowed to take part in the district’s extracurricular activities and clubs, use the library, receive tutoring, and much more. “There is a need for an alternative education outside of our brick and mortar schools,” said Smith, “How can we get them back under our umbrella and offer them a quality education?” The Mena Public School District has seen a downward trend in student population

January 6, 2016

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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Santa is Coming to Town S

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anta is taking a break from his summer vacation to visit downtown Mena this Friday and Saturday. Mena Downtown Partners is sponsoring Christmas in July, July 21 and 22, with all kinds of things going on. Summer Santa will be in town both days from 10:00 - 2:00, Friday in the 800 block of Main, and from 11:00 – 3:00 Saturday in the 600 block of Main. He will be glad to visit with kids of all ages and to pose for photos. Downtown shoppers are invited to register at any of the 16 businesses below to take part in the Mega Drawing with 16 chances to win one of the prizes shown: American Artisans – “Soap Gems” sampler by T. S. Pink Soap Rocks; Chameleon Arts – Admission for two to a ‘Paint & Sip’ event in either August or September; Closet 821 – “Summer Fun” basket including Mena tee, Wine-A-Rita mix, and sampler of What’s Cookin’ items; Coast to Coast – Gooseberry Patch cookbook and kitchen towel set; The Corner Shoppe - $25 gift certificate; The Fair Lady & TFL’s Refinery - $25 gift certificate and summer cooler tote; Lipstick and Curls Salon – Skin and hair care basket; The Mena Antique Mall – Italian necklace with pendant (black & white diamonds); Mena Mattress & More – Choice of queen or king size sheet set; Mena Star - One year subscription; The Mercantile - 7 piece queen size bedding set; Old Bank Antiques $25 gift certificate; Ouachita Little Theatre (OLT) – 1 season pass (August, 2017 – July, 2018); Stewman’s Flowers - $60 fresh arrangement; Stitch Chick & Gifts – Summer wreath; Washburn’s Home Furnishings - $100 gift certificate The drawings will be at 3:00 PM Saturday with Santa drawing the winning names. The winner does not have to be present. Winners of the Mena Star coloring contest will also be announced, with $100 of cash prizes being given away. There will be live entertainment on both sides of Mena Street from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Friday evening, with both Kevin Sweeney and Logan Lind performing. JOLT will be presenting ‘Tom Sawyer’ on both evenings at 7:30 at the Ouachita Little Theatre. Youngsters can participate in Sidewalk Chalk Art throughout the downtown and show off their artistic talent. Christmas in July is a time of fun and an opportunity to begin early Christmas shopping. Some of the downtown specials are as follow: Chameleon Arts: 15% off any ‘Paint your own Pottery’ item on Friday, 12-6 and Saturday, 10-8. Paint & Sip, Friday, 6-8:30 with advanced reservation required. $35. Christmas ornaments and figurines will be available to paint these two days.Closet 821: Huge sidewalk sale with summer and winter inventory. Inside-Food samplings from What’s Cooking and new line, Holiday Nuts. Giveaways from multiple gift companies. Coast to Coast: Specials on new and closeout merchandise. Friday AM-popcorn, lemonade, and baked goods on sidewalk. Corner Shoppe: Milk and cookies will be served. Vendors will have individual sales within their booths. Door prize drawings. Josette’s: 30% discount on all gifts and hair products and $30 pedicures. Merle Norman: 20% discount on all handbags and jewelry. Buy two Merle Norman products and get a free gift. Mena Art Gallery: Christmas ornaments and other related Christmas art for sale. Saturday, noon-3 p.m., Indian Taco fundraiser lunch plates for $8. Mena Mattress & More: 25% dscount on all Field and Stream quilts and comforters and brand name sheets. Never Enuff Toys: 10% storewide sale. Sanctified Designs: Saturday- Local CMA chapter, Home Front Warriors, will be giving away hot dogs and doing bike blessings. Inside, there will be face paint and story telling. Richard Pena, author of children’s book The Train that Saved Christmas, will be on hand for book signing. Register for a $100 store gift certificate. Stewman’s Flowers: Succulent Planting Party-Choose and buy succulent there; either bring own container or containers will be available for purchase; plotting materials and planting and care intructions will be provided at no charge. 50% discount on Christmas ornaments and 40% on flags. Tropical ‘grab and go’ bouquets. The Mercantile: Free gift with each purchase while supplies last. 20% discount in the General Store on antiques, collectibles, and used items. In addition to beginning early Christmas shopping, it will be a good time to start thinking early about children who may not be able to have a good Christmas. Toys for Tots boxes will be on the sidewalks. New unwrapped toys or books are welcomed. Again, the Mena Downtown Partners invite you to experience downtown on July 21 and 22. Enjoy the specials, entertainment and Christmas decorations.

Chamber Welcomes AirMedCare Network

The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce welcomed AirMedCare Network to the chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on July 12, 2017, at Mena Regional Health System. To learn more about the Chamber and benefits of membership, contact Ashley Smith, Executive Director, at 479394-2912.

National Family Caregiver Support Program Caregiver Support Meeting • July 24, 2017 at 11:15 am

If you are a caregiver of an adult 60 years and older please come join us. This information could be extremely helpful to you. The topic will be “Respecting the Person” presented by Pamela Tabor, Ouachita Regional Hospice. For information call Taryn Jinks 870-385-2373. Hope to see you there. Refreshments will be served.

The Cossatot Senior Center

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

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July 19, 2017

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The Sons of Confederate Mena High School 40 Year Club Scholarship Veterans Present “The Reaches 4th Endowment T Polk County Invincible’s” T

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he Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 2264, “The Polk County Invincible's”, will host “Monotony, Boredom, and Sheer Terror -The life of an average Civil War Soldier” as part of the monthly meeting on August 1, 2017. The public is invited to attend this free program presented by Historic Washington State Park of a uniformed soldier as he demonstrates the situations and gear typical of a confederate soldier. Guests are invited to have dinner at the Limetree Restaurant at 6 p.m., with the program starting around 6:30 p.m. Learn how new soldiers adapted to the circumstance of battle and camp life with a combination of items issued, personal, and acquired along the way. By the use of knapsacks and equipment common to confederate and federal troops, attendees will learn about the contrast in provisions and the tradition of the “citizen soldier” in U. S. military history. The regular monthly meeting of the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 2264, “The Polk County Invincible's”, will follow the program and all are welcome to remain and learn more about the heritage of the organization in the community.

he Mena High School 40 Year Club presented a donation of $14,500 to the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain Foundation to establish a fourth endowment for the Club’s scholarship fund. Currently, the MHS 40 Year Club Endowment Scholarship provides three annual scholarships with a fourth scholarship projected to be available for the fall 2018 semester. The scholarship awards are designated for Mena High School graduates attending the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain. Scholarship award is based on need and academic performance. The Mena High School 40 Year Club is open to Mena High School graduates who graduated 40 or more years ago. For more information on the Mena High School 40 Year Club, visit www.mhs40yearclub. org and Mena High School Forty-Year Club Facebook page at Facebook/Mena High School Forty Year Club. Pictured (l to r): Tammy Young, UA Rich Mountain Director of Development and Community Relations and Tim Masters, Mena High School 40 Year Club Board President. For more information about the UA Rich Mountain Foundation and giving opportunities contact, Tammy Young, Director of Development and Community Relations at (479) 394-7622, x. 1220 or tyoung@rmcc.edu

Grand Opening Tuesday, July 25th from 11 am - 1 pm Lunch will be served.

January 6, 2016

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Phenomena at Board Camp Crystal Mine

mini-series called “Expedition Unknown: Hunt for Extraterrestrials.” The Murphy’s were restricted from disclosing the details of the show; however after a photo of the Murphy’s with Gates and a field investigator wearing a jacket with a MUFON [Mutual UFO Network] arm patch were released, there has been a flurry of speculation. Gates visited the mine specifically to investigate the crystal mine and film with MUFON’s special assignment team. MUFON was founded in 1969 and, today, is a nation-wide 501(c)3 organization with approximately 4,000 paid members that has teams of investigators from professional backgrounds who volunteer their time to investigate reports of unexplained anomalies. Currently, MUFON investigators classify the phenomena experienced at the Board Camp Crystal Mine as “undeniably scientifically unexplained.” The Murphy’s report that since February of this year, there has been phenomena happening at the mine, phenomena they are seeking explanations for and that’s why they reported it and are grateful MUFON responded. “We were told that our reports were taken seriously because of physical evidence that we were able to show. MUFON says that 97% of reports are nothing, but 3% have something behind them. We fall into the 3% because we have credible physical evidence.” MUFON field investigator Chase Kloetzke experienced some of the phenomena and details of her’s and Gates investigation will be revealed during the episode that is scheduled to air this October on the Travel Channel. While attending the invitation only media event, Saturday, July 15, witnesses reported that they saw more phenomena. The phenomena witnessed that night were orbs of light seen in the woods.

Ongoing phenomena experienced by the Murphy’s and friends are mysterious orbs, unidentified lights, and what appears to be rock movement and levitation. “Look, we know how this sounds, but we aren’t trying to pull anything over anyone. Not only have we seen things with our eyes, but we have cameras that have caught the different phenomena happening,” explains Orville Murphy. More recently, while walking through the woods in hopes of seeing more light orbs and making sense of the phenomena, the Murphy’s have experienced another phenomena, rocks falling. Josh White, the Murphy’s son, was walking through the woods with his dad when he says there was a rock that literally just fell from the sky. “It’s not like it fell from a great height, but it probably fell from four feet above me and almost hit me in the face,” explains White. As mentioned, what has deemed the Murphy’s reportings of the phenomena so credible is the physical evidence they have collected. On Saturday, July 15, Orville took local media out to the ‘event site’, the area where many of the reported phenomena has been allegedly happening, including the rock levitation. When MUFON was at the mine the investigators explained to the Murphy’s that an area where crystals are can be magnetized, usually at a rate of .5. As guests looked on, Orville demonstrated how a metal t-post that had been knocked over because of phenomena at the event site had become magnetized. The t-post had a rating of 22 on one end and a little over 5 on the other end, giving the post two poles and making the everyday farm supply a magnet. “We were able to hang a light dinner spoon on the other day and it held. It is really cool stuff,” say the Murphy’s. Although the Murphy’s and guests cannot fully explain the phenomena, they

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CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE are hopeful that with the help of MUFON and Josh Gates’ show, “Expedition Unknown: Hunt for Extraterrestrials”, the family will be able to receive some kind of explanation. “We know things are happening out here that we can’t explain, but we feel that science can. We are just of the belief that it is wrong to have knowledge and keep it for yourself. It is our hope that we can shed light on the things going on and maybe provide answers for those who have experienced similar things,” says Orville Murphy. The Murphys are relieved that they can begin sharing their story publicly, so that the world can learn from it. They admitted that at first, they were hesitant to share for fear of being ridiculed. Cheryl shared that as a Christian, they were naturally, troubled by the odd experiences happening on their property and sought the Lord for assurance. “We found an article in my daily devotional by Billy Graham, titled ‘The Mysteries of God’ that provided us with the comfort we were looking for and we encourage others to read it online, who may feel troubled by our news. For years, people have been seeking the truth to such phenomena, and perhaps the happenings at Board Camp Crystal Mine can shed some extra light, because some of the phenomena may be linked to the energy in the crystals.” The Murphys are relieved that they can begin sharing their story publicly, so that the world can learn from it. They plan to reopen their business, not for crystal digging as yet, but to host tours for those interested in learning more about the phenomena and to see where Josh Gates filmed. The Murphy’s story and scientific results of the MUFON investigation is expected to be reported in the November 2017 issue of the MUFON Journal.

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July 19, 2017

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Ouachita Rehab Earns iCARE Award SUBMITTED

The Ouachita Rehabilitation Center of Mena Regional Health System was recently awarded the iCARE Star Department of the Quarter. The Rehab Center provides excellence in outpatient therapy services for those who require physical, occupational, or speech therapy. With many combined decades of rehabilitation experience and hometown community values, patients of the center can be confident they will receive superior therapy and medical services from a very compassionate, friendly staff. Teresa Wise, CNO, and Chandler Cox, HR Director, are shown presenting the award to Michael Wood, Director of Ouachita Rehabilitation Center and The Mena Rehabilitation Center (inpatient facility). Jay Quebedeaux, CEO, is also shown congratulating the staff on their incredible success. For more information about rehabilitation close to home, call 479-394-1161.

THE LORD’S WARNING

Christ, who is all knowing, tells us that many people are going to be lost in eternity. In Matthew 7:13-14 He says, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." According to the Bible the majority of people will be lost. This warning must be taken seriously! The Lord says that only a few people will be saved. How few can it be? In 1 Peter 3:20 we read, "..to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also.." The conservative estimate of the number of people on the face of the earth in the days of Noah is two hundred million (200,000,000) people. But only eight (8) out of the estimated two hundred million (200,000,000) were saved. This is not very good odds. Even though the Bible says in 1 Peter 3:9 that the Lord is "not willing that any should perish", Jesus says in Matthew 7:13-14 concerning eternal life in Heaven that "there are few who find it". The vast majority of people will spend forever in the eternal fires of Hell that will never be extinguished. Nobody can comprehend how horrible that is going to be. There are only two roads to eternity and everyone is on one or the other. If we miss Heaven, we will be thrown into the eternal fires of Hell forever. One of the saddest things about being thrown into Hell is the fact that it could have been avoided. The majority of people will be lost in spite of what the Lord has done. Hell is not what God does to you, but Hell is what you do to yourself. A person who ends up in Hell is his own worst enemy and only has himself to blame. Let us make going to Heaven our number one priority in this life. Christ gave us all the opportunity to join Him in Glory through his sacrifice. The Hatfield Church of Christ welcomes all to worship. 479-437-5276 also on Facebook. THIS AD PURCHASED BY HATFIELD CHURCH OF CHRIST

City Resolution

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A piece of legislation was sent through the Arkansas legislature this spring, dubbed SB 140. That bill was shot down in the House. Mena Mayor George McKee, along with many other municipalities, feel that internet sales have decreased local collections, causing decreasing budgets across the country. As consumers make more and more online purchases, cities and counties take deeper cuts. “Our revenue is dropping; this will help,” he said. Mayor McKee gave an example of how this could affect a community. “Waldron has lost their Walmart, and along with that, the sales tax from that business. With a law like this, Waldron residents could order online from Walmart and the city will still be able to gain the sales tax from the purchase.” In October of 2016, The Pulse spoke with Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison about the effect internet sales have had on county tax collections. Currently, the county is $13,740.62, behind in sales tax collections from this same time last year. At the time, Ellison speculated that internet sales could be a contributing factor on the decline of collections. He stated, “We encourage people to spend money at home. Internet sales are not taxed. It has certainly taken off and people buy a lot of stuff online and it’s really unfair to brick and mortar businesses at the local level. They’ve taken the risk and made the investment and they are having to collect state, county, and local taxes while the internet sales don’t. I think it is probably affecting more rural Arkansas counties also.” Just months later, legislators would consider this very factor. Amazon.com is ahead of the game when it comes to the concept. The large online retailer made it their own policy to begin collecting local and state sales taxes. Mena received their first payment from Amazon in May. Although it is not yet a significant number, legislation could increase it drastically.

January 6, 2016

Board Camp Man

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Birdwell’s body was recovered in Chicot County, Arkansas on Saturday, July 15th, which has now been sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab to identify a cause of death. Polk County Sheriff Sawyer said there were no signs of foul play at Birdwell’s cabin and that his truck, motorcycle, and dog were all there when they were searching for him on Friday. Birdwell is also from Springhill, Louisiana, and has residences in both Louisiana and Polk County. More details are not being released at this time. If you have information, contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Department at 479-394-2511. The Arkansas State Police, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and Chicot County Sheriff’s Office are all taking part in the joint investigation.

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Mena Middle School Among State’s Top Performing Schools

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eing a high academic performing and/or growing school not only serves students, but may also result in additional reward funding. For the 2015-16 school year, 201 public schools were recently recognized as either high performing schools, high gaining schools, or both through the Arkansas School Recognition and Reward Program. The program recognizes the top 10 percent of schools based on academic achievement and/or academic growth and graduation rates. Mena Middle School was one of those 201 schools in the state to receive the honor and a monetary award for their achievements. According to the Arkansas Department of Education, “the Arkansas School Recognition Program, Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2107, was created to provide financial awards to public schools that achieve high student performance and public schools that achieve high student academic growth, which includes high school graduation rates where applicable.” The statute authorizes rewards in an amount up to $100 per student who attends a public school or public charter school in the top 5 percent of all Arkansas public schools in student performance or student academic growth, which includes high school graduation rates for secondary schools. Up to $50 per student enrolled is awarded to public schools or public charter schools between the top 5 percent and the next 5 percent (schools in the top 6-10 percent) of all public schools in Arkansas in student performance or student academic growth, which includes high school graduation rates for secondary schools. Mena Middle School is in this category and State Representative John Maddox presented their $19,650 award on July 13, 2017 to MMS Principal Clifton Sherrer, MMS Asst. Principal Todd Coogan, and Superintendent Benny Weston. Schools receiving recognition funds must establish a committee to determine the best use of the funds. The committee includes the principal, a teacher elected by the faculty, and a parent representative selected by the local parent teacher organization or another parental involvement group. Schools may use the funds for faculty and staff bonuses, educational equipment and materials, or personnel to assist with improving or maintaining student performance and growth. Arkansas Learns, the Voice of Business for excellent education options for all students, championed the Reward School funding in the 89th, 90th and 91st General Assemblies and provided the presentation checks for Legislators. For more, visit ArkansasLearns.org, and use #RewardSchool and @ArkansasLearns on social media.

Virtual School

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over the last decade, losing 286 students since 2007, or 14.3% of the student population in grades K-12. When the School Choice Act of 2013 was passed, allowing students to apply to attend their district of choice, Mena School District lost 65 of those 286 students the following year. According to the Arkansas Department of Education’s Data Center, in the 2006-2007 school year, Mena Public Schools had a student population of 2002. Ten years later, in the 20162017 school year, that number had dropped to 1716 students. Smith, along with Jimma Holder, Louise Durham Principal, and Paulette Sherrer, explained that for many reasons, parents are choosing to homeschool their children, with 133 currently in the district that use this method. All three ladies said they are quite often approached with questions, and often times, they are restricted by guidelines and are unable answer or provide the assistance. “Our goals [with the virtual school] are to provide personalized learning and extend the offer of all of our services that traditional students have such as band, library, drama,” said Smith. If approved by the state, which could take several months, the school would launch in the 2018-2019 school year. For the first year, only 25 students would be allowed into the program, with a progression to follow each year. Each student would be provided with a chromebook, and for those that cannot afford internet services, a ‘hot spot’ would be provided for them as well. The curriculum for Polk County Virtual Academy would be provided by a vendor that abides by state standards of education just like any other public school. Smith explained they are currently researching four providers that offer Arkansas standards. State and federal funding per student would be received by the district, just as if they attended the ‘brick and mortar schools.’ Those funds would be used to purchase the curriculum and provide the technology needed. The district’s ten-year trend of declining enrollment translates to an approximate $1.9 million loss of revenue in state funding alone. “There is a paradigm shift happening in the world. We have to be wise and ask ourselves, is there anything we can do to reach these kids,” said Weston. The Polk County cials! Virtual School could be the answer. unts and spe

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obituaries

July 19, 2017

Weekly Publication

................................................................................................................................ THOMAS ANDREW ABBOTT Thomas Andrew Abbott, 83, Entered into eternal rest on the evening of July 15, 2017 at home in Owasso, Okla. surrounded by loved ones. Tom was born on April 13, 1934 in Mena, Arkansas to Ora and Jerry Abbott of Mena, Arkansas. Tom grew up in Mena, Ark., graduating from Mena High School in 1952, After high school, he served his country in the U.S. Navy for 4 years. He married Nancy Faulkner, also of Mena, in 1957. Tom worked at Graybar Electric as branch manager and Electrical Products of OK in sales. Tom and Nancy were happily married for 60 years. He enjoyed spending time with family, time at the lake, and watching Western shows on the television. Tom is survived by his spouse, Nancy of Owasso, Okla; his grown children, Karen, Steve, Mark and Shawn all of Tulsa, Okla; two brothers, Gus Abbott of Tulsa, Okla. and Jimmy Abbott of Mena, Ark., grandchildren, Nick, Chris, Tyler, Cristina, Jake and Luc and his other treasured relatives. Tom was preceded in death by his parents Ora and Jerry Abbott, brother Dude Abbott and sister Barbara Abbott Paulsen. A Rosary was held Tuesday, July 18th at 6 p.m. at Saint Henry’s Catholic Church in Owasso. A viewing was held Wednesday, July 19th at 10:00 a.m. with a funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Henry’s Catholic Church, 8500 N Owasso Expy, Owasso, Okla. 74055 with interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Tulsa. The relatives and friends of Tom and Nancy Abbott are invited to attend the rosary and funeral service. Rosary was held Tuesday, July 18th , at 6 p.m., and funeral service, on Wednesday, July 19th, at 11:00 a.m., with viewing at 10:00 a.m., at Saint Henry’s Catholic Church, 8500 N Owasso Expwy, Owasso, OK 74055. Burial will follow at Calvary

Cemetery in Tulsa. Condolences may be left on Thomas Andrew Abbott online guest book at http://www. fitzgeraldivychapel.com or by mailing a card to Nancy Abbott, 10303 East 90th Court North, Owasso, OK 74055.

EDWARD LYLE COPES Edward Lyle Copes, age 90, of Mena, Arkansas died Monday, July 10, 2017 at the Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab in Mena. He was born on Tuesday, May 24, 1927 to Ira Otho and Hazel Dry Copes in Mexico, Missouri. Edward was of the Methodist faith and attended the First United Methodist Church in Mena. Edward served in the United States Navy during World War II. He was a member of the Dallas 128 Masonic Lodge and was a 32nd Degree Mason. Edward worked as a sales rep for the Hobart Corporation for 35 years in Memphis, Tennessee. He was a scratch golfer, and loved playing golf, hitting two hole-in-one’s at the Colonial Country Club in Memphis during his lifetime. Edward enjoyed his pets, woodworking, gardening, canning, working with his hands, and was even known to dance the foxtrot. He was a member of the Elks and the Scottish Right. Edward was a loving father, uncle, grandfather and a great friend and will be missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Chyrline Copes; and one sister, Mary Bogash. Edward is survived by one daughter, Heidi Orris of Mena; four grandchildren, Jim Orris of Howey in the Hills, Florida, Duncan Orris of Gainesville, Florida, Dennis Orris of Valencia, California, and Nicole Sjostrom of Knoxville, Tennessee; five great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; four nephews, Russell Hughes and wife, Vicki, Mark Bogash and wife, Carol, David Bogash and wife, Meg and Morgan Crosson; two nieces, Rhonda Teel

and husband, Dennis and Diane Hernandez; and a host of other relatives and friends. A memorial service with military honors was held Thursday, July 13, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. at the First United Methodist Church in Mena with Reverend Ann Ferris officiating. Cremation services entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Humane Society of the Ouachitas at 366 Polk Rd 50, Mena, AR 71953. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

MILDRED POWELL MCLAIN Mildred Powell McLain, age 96, of Mena passed away Saturday, July 15, 2017 in Mena, Arkansas. Mildred was born in Potter, Arkansas on July 12, 1921 to the late Alvin Powell and Delia Annie Horton Powell. Mildred was a devoted mother with a big servant’s heart, always wanting to be a blessing to her family and others. She was an honest, modest and most of all a God-fearing person that put God and family first. Mildred was a loving caregiver for Assisted Living for over 58 years. Also she was an active member of Union Mission Church of God for many years. She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, sister and friend to all who knew her. She will dearly be missed by all. Mildred is survived by sons, Dale McLain of Mena, Arkansas, Billy Gene McLain of Mena, Arkansas; grandchildren, Billy Joe McLain of Mena, Arkansas, Tammy De-Feo of Riverside, California, Wade Lee McLain of Grand Junction, Colorado, Cody Floyd McLain of Mena, Arkansas, Billy Ray McLain of San Diego, California; siblings, Tommy Powell of California, Bonnie Matthews of California, Joe Powell of California, Wanda Thomas of Mena, Arkansas, Betty Myers of Mena, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral service will be Thursday, July 20,

2017 at 10:00 a.m., at Union Mission Church in Mena, Arkansas with Pastor Billy Dunahoo, Brother Lewis Martin and Brother Nathan Sherer officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation is general. Pallbearers will be Billy Joe McLain, Tommey Callahan, Arnold Wilcox, Dwight Douglas, Pastor Roy Powell, Mickie Goss, and John Cook. Honorary pallbearer will be Curtis Callahan. Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

KENNY SHANE DOCKERY Mr. Kenny Shane Dockery, age 43, a resident of Gillham, Arkansas, died Thursday, July 13, 2017, in De Queen,

Arkansas. He was born March 7, 1974, in De Queen. He was a carpenter and enjoyed hunting, fishing, working, and spending time with his family and friends. Shane was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Allison Davis; and his brother, Tommy Cockrell. He is survived by his “Pop”, Bobby Davis of Gillham; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Steven and Callie Davis also of Gillham and Johnny Cockrell of De Queen; three sisters and a brother-in-law, Dawn and Ricky Taylor of Sorrento, Florida, Kimberly Yates and Erica Melton both of Grannis, Arkansas, a number of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of friends. The family received friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, July 17, 2017, at Wilkerson Funeral Home. Cremation to follow. You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com

January 6, 2016

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school

July 19, 2017

Weekly Publication

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Acorn Middle & High School Band Awards A

t the conclusion of the 2016-2017 school year, Acorn Music Director Valerie Couch, presented awards to outstanding students in both the Acorn Band and Acorn Choir programs. Those awards are presented below:

Mena Resident Earns Prestigious Donaghey Scholarship SUBMITTED

6th Grade Band: Addison Wood, Rachel Miller, Lori Richardson, Makayla Sandoval, Rachael Weddle, Lucas Watts, Brookelyn Goss

7th Grade Band: Abigail Smedley, Kyndall Dycus, Lexi Dilbeck

8th Grade Band: Corryn Holland, Rebekah Cole, Halli Holland

Middle School Choir: Top row - Corryn Branson, Kadi Caldwell, Kaelin Harding, Vivian Harper, Aubrey Harvey, Addyson Pruett, Sandy Strother; second row - Haley Sandoval, Rachael Weddle, Kyndall Dycus, Emily Whorton, Lexi Dilbeck, Brickie Sachs, Kim Strasner, Abigail Smedley; Bottom - Riley Weddle, Addison Wood, Ayden Wood

High School Band: Bridgete Magness, Chantry Blake, Tessa Kesterson. Not pictured: Dalton Lane.

High School Choir: Parker Couch, Drew Lyle, Abby Lay, Maggie Barrett, Tessa Kesterson, Amy Nguyen

ric Nelson Sutherland Jr., a Mena, AR, resident, has earned the prestigious University of Arkansas at Little Rock Donaghey Scholarship for the 2017-18 school year. Sutherland Jr., is an Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts graduate. Sutherland Jr.’s, intended major is mechanical engineering at UA Little Rock. The student’s parents are Elizabeth Mattucks and Eric Sutherland. Donaghey Scholars receive a substantial ﬁnancial package that includes: Full tuition (up to 18 hours per semester); Stipend; Study abroad; Financial assistance; Housing subsidy; New laptop computer. The program uses an interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking through the reading of primary texts, writing, and discussion. As the campus-wide honors program, the Donaghey Scholars program builds a strong foundation for students to pursue their areas of study at UA Little Rock. With about 11,000 students and 100 programs, UA Little Rock offers learning, research, service, social and career opportunities that can only be found in Arkansas’ capital city.

sports

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Pre-Season Rankings for Bearcats BY LOGAN MCCOURTNEY • l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com

he annual Hooten’s Arkansas Football magazine has been released with 2016 statistics, 2017 predictions, player profiles, and much more. Among other things, the annual magazine has ranked and made predictions for Mena’s 7-4A conference. Over the years, the 7-4A has been a daunting league to play in with a grueling schedule that wears on the teams. In high school football, the 7-4A conference is like the West Division in the SEC. This year the Hooten’s staff has pegged the Bearcats to finish 5th out of the 8-team conference. Despite the ranking, Bearcat fans should be excited as the team returns 7 starters on both sides of the ball. It is also worth noting that in the Bearcat’s run to the 2014 State Championship, that Bearcat team was also picked in the middle of the pack and overachieved. In the same way, Mena returns good experience, including a three year starting quarterback and multiple defensive standout that should help the team surprise some people in the league and around the state. As noted, the Bearcats play in one of the toughest conferences in 4A and in the state, period. To put into perspective the success the Bearcats have still achieved in the gauntlet of a schedule, consider these statistics put together by Hooten’s: -There are 5 teams from the 7-4A conference in the State Top 20 rankings, one of those being Mena -8 players from the conference have been named to the 4A Super Team, 3 players from Ashdown alone. Bearcat Justin Dean was named to this list -5 players have been named to the Top 50 Recruit List, 3 of those players from the Ashdown Panther team -4 players from the 2016 class signed with the Razorbacks -5 of the 8 teams made the 2016 State Playoffs -The 4 teams above Mena in the Conference rankings have a combined 143 playoff wins Despite the grueling schedule and vast amount of college talent on several teams in the conference, since 2010 Mena has averaged almost a 7 win season. If the Bearcats continue on this track, Mena is looking at more than 5th place, the team may very well be fighting for a place as the Conference Champ. As usual, the Bearcats can be expected to grind out games, play tough football that will keep them in games and win the close ones. Last season, Mena lost two games by four points or less, but with good experience coming back and senior leadership, those are games that the Bearcats should pull out this year. Look to a future edition of the Pulse as we countdown to Bearcat Football with player and coach profiles and coverage of all things Bearcat Football.

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Delilah Tetro

Barracudas Qualify for Junior Olympics

SUBMITTED

everal members of the Mena Barracuda swim team traveled to Texarkana, TX June 23 and El Dorado, AR July 7 in an attempt to qualify for the 2017 Junior Olympics to be held in Detroit MI, July 27-30. To qualify, a swimmer must place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in the individual event they are swimming. Results were as follows: Age 8 and Under Boys: Ayden Dong (Texarkana) placed 5th in the 50-meter Breaststroke 1:37.22, 6th in 50-meter Backstroke 1:27.59, and 6th in 50-meter Freestyle 1:07.48. Ryan Jian (Texarkana) placed 2nd in 50-meter Breaststroke 1:10.27, 3rd in 50-meter Freestyle 48.29, and 4th in 50-meter Backstroke 1:12.73. Age 10 and Under Boys: Brandon Dong (Texarkana) placed 4th in 50-meter Breaststroke 1:05.44, 8th in 50-meter Freestyle 48.73, and 9th in 50-meter Backstroke 1:13.37. Age 12 and Under Girls: Ranessa Ricker (Texarkana) placed 2nd in 100-meter Butterfly 2:14.69 and 7th in 50-meter Freestyle 40.36. In the El Dorado meet, Ranessa placed 5th in the 200-meter Freestyle 3:07.56, 5th in 100-meter Breaststroke 1:48.99, 5th in 100-meter Freestyle 1:28.47, 6th in 200-meter Individual Medley 3:44.90, 7th in 50-meter Breaststroke 51.80, 9th in 50-meter Freestyle 38.09, and 9th in 50-meter Backstroke 49.29. Age 12 and Under Boys: Brenden Ricker (Texarkana) placed 2nd in 100-meter Breaststroke 1:54.72, 3rd in 50-meter Breaststroke 53.79, 5th in 200-meter Individual Medley 4:11.24, and 8th in 50-meter Backstroke 56.58. In the El Dorado meet, Brenden placed 3rd in 200-meter Individual Medley 3:33.88, 6th in 100-meter Backstroke 1:43.61, 7th in 50-meter Butterfly 47.89, 7th in 50-meter Backstroke 48.96, and 9th in 100-meter Freestyle 1:33.68. The swimmers that qualified for Junior Olympics this year were Ryan Jiang, Ranessa Ricker, and Brenden Ricker.

January 6, 2016

sports

July 19, 2017

Weekly Publication

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Bearcats Enter Busy Week T

BY LOGAN MCCOURTNEY l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com

he Bearcat football program is staying busy this week. Both the junior high and high school teams continue to train in the Fast Cats conditioning program. Between 7th-12th grade, there are approximately 90 athletes training daily. This year’s Fast Cats is ‘old school’ as Coach Harper said. The athletes are training with light and heavy jump ropes, box jumps, tractor tire flips, and parachute sprints just to name a few. This week the junior high Bearcats and the Varsity teams will be in action. The junior high will travel to Ozark Arkansas to compete in a team camp, while the senior high will host their Man Camp. The Man Camp is a day-and-a-half football camp that will be attended by schools from around the state. Teams that are confirmed to participate this year are Riverview, Mansfield, Mineral Springs, and the host, Mena. During the camp the teams will scrimmage, have competitions, and 11-on-11 activity and drills. Each of the teams from out of town will stay overnight Wednesday before leaving Thursday. Both the junior high and senior high Bearcats are gearing up for the start of their season in the beginning of September. Fall practice will begin at 7 a.m. August 2nd. Look to a future edition of the Pulse for more coverage on the Bearcats.

Adult Softball League Hits the Home Stretch

BY LOGAN MCCOURTNEY l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com Monday night, July 17th, teams from the Mena adult softball league battled it out on the diamond at McMillan Park. There are six total teams in the softball league that has been playing since June. The teams have entered their seventh week of the eight week season. After finishing the eight week season, each of the teams will enter tournament play to determine who will be crowned champions. Scared Hitless and Bad Company played in the first game of the night and Scared Hitless won 25-14.

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Weekly Publication

Mena Hosts Basketball Team Camp

BY LOGAN MCCOURTNEY l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com

sports

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he Mena boys basketball teams hosted a team camp July 17th at Jim Rackley Gymnasium. Junior high and senior high teams were in action throughout the day. The games started at 10 a.m. and went through the whole day. Acorn and Cossatot both brought their JV and Varsity teams to play in the team camp. Games were played with 16 minute running clock halves and the clock was only stopped within the last minute of each half if the score was within 10 points. Mena has been participating in team camps throughout the summer and the Mena team camp was one of the last opportunities this summer for the Bearcats to get game experience. Many of the basketball players are dual sport athletes and will be playing football this fall, making this a valuable opportunity for coaches to work with their teams before the start of football. Look to a future edition of the Pulse for more coverage on the Bearcat basketball teams.

January 6, 2016

Chamber Members...

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Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your business!

Advertising Deadline: August 4 All buys will be invoiced in September. Distribution Date: October 1st Contact one of our Marketing Specialists to reserve your spot in the Chamber Connection TODAY!

DEBBIE FROST d.frost@mypulsenews.com MARK HOBSON m.hobson@mypulsenews.com MELANIE WADE news@mypulsenews.com LOGAN MCCOURTNEY l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com LEANN DILBECK l.dilbeck@mypulsenews.com

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

July 19, 2017

Announced Winner – July 7

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KATHY LEWIS

was The winner of the steve miller band concert feat. peter frampton

July 19, 2017

Weekly Publication

Spurgins Celebrate 30 Years of Marriage Kevin and Chamarie Spurgin celebrated their 30th Anniversary this year after being married on July 17, 1987. The pair is much loved by family and friends including daughter, Kendra and husband, Aaron, grandchildren, Rayden and Parker, and daughter, Kenzi. Happy 30th to the Spurgins!

The Lens in Which We View the World BY LEANN DILBECK • editor@mypulsenews.com

faith & family

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opened my eyes and as they slowly adjusted to the light, they began to see… clearly. Colors were more vibrant. My eyes scanned from one object to another as my mind tried to process this new reality. I could actually see the people on the TV and I could read the scrolling news bar. I could read the sign outside the hotel window. My eyes weld up with tears as my husband entered the room. He worried, “Are you ok? Do you hurt? Do you need more drops?” And I explained that I was fine… they were happy tears. The morning before had begun as such a blur, quite literally. But within the course of less than 24 hours, and with the expertise of an amazing doctor and today’s technology, my life had been transformed. My vision had steadily worsened over a 15-year period to the point, that I was completely dependent on corrective lenses. Glasses were always strategically placed right on the nightstand because functioning without them just simply wasn’t possible. I was able to wear contacts most of the time but I struggled with dry eyes and just constant eye fatigue. An ophthalmologist encouraged me to consider LASIK, saying I was the perfect candidate and that it would truly be “life-changing.” And, there’s hardly a day, almost 18 months later that I don’t think about just how life changing it is has been for me. With a short 15-20 minute procedure, the lens in which I see the world is now perfect… 20/20 perfect. Grateful seems too small a word. Our life events shape the lens in which we see the world, some we are responsible for, and others, we are not. Wouldn’t it be awesome if there was a short, simple procedure that could take events that were less than perfect and re-shape them, like they did my cornea? To have something flawed… blurry… and maybe even painful and out of your control, but now you can see its perfection clearly? Or, would it? It’s all about our focus. We can dwell on all of our own imperfections or everything that has been less than ideal in our lives and let that define us with a defeatist lens of the world. OR, we can choose the lens of the victor. Maybe you were teased because you grew up poor? Maybe you grew up in a broken home, tossed from one parent to another, or with no parents? Maybe you survived a tragic event? The internet is full of self help blogs, the power of positive thinking, and $9.95 subscriptions to a “better you.” They may work as band-aids but you will have to reach for those lenses each and every day. Your view won’t be permanently changed until your complete focus is on our Lord Jesus Christ. He and only He alone can bring the clarity that you are seeking. He and only He alone can bring you a clear General Store focus. He and only He alone can deliver a 5&key factsFlea about Prostate Cancer: Indoor Market vibrant vision. 1. Affects 1 in every 6 men It’s all about what we choose to focus 2. Deadlier than breast cancer on… in our own selves and each other. 3. Detectable in early stages “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, what4. NOT an old man’s disease ever is honorable, whatever is right, what5. Does NOT go away if you avoid testing. Gentlemen: We encourage you toever get is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever a PSA blood test. is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on June 21 & 22 these things.” Philippians 4:8

January 6, 2016

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. .July . . . .19, . . . 2017 .......................................................................................................................

citizen

Weekly Publication

Carol Burns- Serving and Recognizing Veterans D

BY LOGAN MCCOURTNEY

l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com

o you know what happens when you don’t take time to stop and remember? Things in the past and memories become vague and no longer important. President Harry S Truman once remarked, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” Unfortunately, in such a fast paced world it is all too easy to forget. Carol Burns and members of the DAVA [Disabled American Veteran’s Auxiliary] are giving their time to recognize Polk County’s veterans. Carol grew up and was raised in Pennsylvania and started her family there before moving to Hutchinson, Kansas. While living in Kansas, Carol came to visit her husband’s family in Arkansas for vacation. “We loved the state from the first time we came. The people were so friendly, we got the biggest kick out of everybody smiling and waving,” Carol recalls smiling. Within three months they packed up their house and moved to Malvern, Arkansas where Carol owned and operated a deli. Her husband was unfortunately diagnosed with cancer and passed six months later. After transferring to Mena to work at Walmart, she met Fletcher square dancing and the couple would later get married. Fletcher passed a couple of years later and Carol married Rex Burns in September of 2009. “I had known Rex from square dancing as well and he was so sweet. On Mother’s Day in 2009 he brought me a bouquet of flowers and asked me out on a date. We got married in September,” says Carol smiling. Through Rex’s 26 years of faithful service in the Navy and Air Force, after getting married, Carol became involved in DAVA. The organization is for the spouses, or mother, or child of a veteran who has served in the armed forces. The DAV [Disabled American Veterans] is a nonprofit charity that seeks to provide support for veterans and their families. There are almost 1,300 chapters and 1.3 million members across the country that are providing resources to veterans and their families. One of the notable ways this is done in Mena is through the DAV van that takes veterans to their appointments in Little Rock. Carol has served as the Commander of the local DAVA, but now serves as the treasurer. When the opportunity provided itself for Carol to become involved, it wasn’t a hard choice, “I just really like to work with the vets and help them. I saw what we could do in the community and I wanted to help,” explains Carol. There are many ways that members of the DAV are serving veterans, but the biggest way is just making themselves available to serve. “There are many different ways that we serve the veterans, we have even went and cleaned someone’s house before. There are just a lot of needs in the community that we can meet.” One of the most notable ways that Carol and others seek to serve the veterans is by recognizing them for their service. Each veteran that Carol and other members find out is now in the nursing home will receive a plaque to hang outside their door so that friends or family passing by will know that there is a veteran in the room. “So many of these veterans are selfless and served without receiving any recognition. We just want to make sure that they receive recognition for their service and we hope that people will stop in and thank them for their service,” says Carol. While the DAVA is only for spouses or children of veterans, there are still many ways that people can help Carol serve veterans. Each year the DAV has several fundraisers to help fund the services they provide for veterans. This past year they raffled off a king size quilt and made $1250. People in the community can always donate money to help with their projects, but Carol also says people can donate their time. “One of the things we want to do for veterans in the nursing home is provide lap quilts. People can make lap quilts, we always need more quilts,” Carol says. Often many veterans don’t have family close or anyone to visit with them and so Carol and many others will go to the nursing homes to sit down and visit with them. “Going to visit the veterans is just another way to serve them and honor them for their service. Many of them don’t have people come visit them and so people visiting makes their day. Sometimes we go and just tell them about what’s going on in town or talk about the weather. Anybody can do it.” Many men and women have made sacrifices for their country and some, the ultimate sacrifice. Carol demonstrates for everyone watching the importance and need to recognize our veterans, even if in the smallest ways.

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Dinner and a movie ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Saturday, July 29th at 6pm Dinner at 6pm Showing Courageous at 7pm

Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

•394-1938• Owner : Stacy & Julie Nash

Bring your family, lawn chairs, and or blankets for a picnic-style indoor burger dinner and a movie!

Calvary Baptist Church 2100 Hwy 375 W Come grow with us!

July 19, 2017

Razorback KENA - Your hometown home of the HOGS is ready to jump into the season! All businesses who sign up as Razorback sponsors by August 2nd will be registered into a drawing for a chance to win 2 tickets to watch the HOGS tackle the TCU Horned Frogs at Razorback Stadium on September 9!

Mark Hobson - m.hobson@mypulsenews.com Debbie Frost - d.frost@mypulsenews.com Logan McCourtney - l.mccourtney@mypulsenews.com Melanie Buck - m.buck@mypulsenews.com LeAnn Dilbeck - l.dilbeck@mypulsenews.com

479-243-9600 • 1168 Hwy 71 S., Mena

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

Signing Day! August 2nd

CALL YOUR WILD HOG PLAN MARKETING SPECIALIST TODAY! $180 Per Month @ 12 Months: • Four (4) - :30’s per Football Broadcast • Two (2) - :30’s per Basketball Broadcast • One (1) - :30 in Biliema/ Anderson Weekly Coaches Show Five (5) - :30’s R.O.S. per week for 52 weeks ($5.24 Per Spot)

SMALL HOG PLAN

BONUS:

$95 Per Month @ 12 Months: • Two (2) - :30’s per Football Broadcast • One (1) - :30 per Basketball Broadcast •Two (2) - :30’s R.O.S. per week for 52 weeks ($6.87 per spot)

if you sign up by August 2

5 BONUS SPOTS / MONTH

10 BONUS SPOTS / MONTH

BONUS:

if you sign up by August 2

. . July . . . . 19, . . . 2017 .......................................................................................................................

calendar

Weekly Publication

Thursday, 7/20 • 7:00 a.m. until sold out – The Polk County Farmer’s Market is open next to the Mena Depot. • 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – St. Agnes Emergency Food Pantry is open. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. – The Board Camp Baptist Church at 107 Country Road 63 will distribute food. • 10:30 a.m. – Gator & Friends will be performing at The Mena Senior Center. • 11:15 a.m. – Cossatot River Senior Center in Wickes will host Caregiver Meeting on Caregiver Logs. • 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/Polk County will meet at Papa’s Mexican Café. Call Lisa Martin 216-3383 or Charles Pitman 216-4882 for more info. • 12:00 p.m. – Polk County Library Board will meet in the Susanna Mosley Community Room at the Library. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - The Sonlighters in Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. • 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Salvation Army Family Store helps families with utilities. • 5:00 p.m. - 9th Street Ministries will have a free dinner and fellowship in the 9th Street Ministries building. • 5:30 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas monthly meeting will be held at Limetree Restaurant. Call 479-243-0771 for details. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. • 5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous

BEATS

• INDIAN TACO FUNDRAISER AT MENA ART GALLERY will be held on Saturday, July 22 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Cost is $8 per plate for an Indian Taco, drink, and a Christmas cookie. They will also have their Christmas in July art sale.

Women’s Meeting at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy, 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 6:00 p.m. – Acorn Water monthly meeting at the Water Office. • 6:00 p.m. – Live Country, Bluegrass and Gospel music in the Daisy Room at Janssen Ave Florist. • 6:30 p.m. – Disaster Preparedness Group meets at Assembly of God Church, 2111 Sutherland Ave. in Mena. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:30 p.m. – Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 meets at the Mena Lodge located in the Old Post Office by Janssen Park. Friday, 07/20 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Road tests are given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room unless the roads are wet. Written tests are given at 1:00 p.m. • 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – St. Agnes Emergency Food Pantry is open. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 12:00 p.m. – PCDC Board of Directors meets in the MRHS Conference Room A. • 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. • 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Leon Page Band will be playing at the American Legion in Acorn. $6.00 admission. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. Saturday, 07/22 • 7:00 a.m. until sold out – The Polk County Farmer’s Market is open next to the Mena Depot. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Fibers Arts Group meets at Mena Art Gallery. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. 479-243-0297 or 479-216-4606. Sunday, 07/23 • 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 3:00 p.m. – Sulpher Springs Church meets at Sulpher Springs. • 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the First United Methodist Church

in Mena. Monday, 07/24 • 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – God’s Feeding Hands Mission Center will serve free Groceries & free Toiletry to the needy at 1200 Reeves Ave, Mena. • 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – St. Agnes Emergency Food Pantry is open. • 10:30 a.m. – Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes will host a Drums Alive presentation. • 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 6:00 p.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 meeting at Limetree Restaurant. Meeting follows meal. • 6:00 p.m. – We The People Tea Party meets at Polk County Public Library North Room. • 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Mena Elks Lodge meeting. All Elks are invited to attend. Tuesday, 07/25 • 7:00 a.m. until sold out – The Polk County Farmer’s Market is open next to the Mena Depot. • 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardener Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – St. Agnes Emergency Food Pantry is open. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the 9th Street Ministries Building. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. Bring your current project and work with other artists. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – The Sonlighters in Action Card Shop will be open at 3671 Highway 8 West, one mile from Louise Durham. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch library will be open. • 5:00 p.m. – T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weigh-ins, followed by a meeting. • 7:00 p.m. – Al-Anon for the families of addicts and alcoholics meets at the ABC Club. • 7:00 p.m. – The Marine Corps League Detachment will meet at Lighthouse Fitness, 2011 Hwy. 71S, Mena. For more information, call 479-234-0769.

• 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Bluegrass music at Morrow Street Housing Authority Community Room. • 7:30 p.m. – Mountain Meadow Masonic Lodge #218 will meet at the Hatfield Lodge. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. 479-234-2887 or 479234-3043. Wednesday, 07/26 • 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – St. Agnes Emergency Food Pantry is open. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Mena at noon. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open. • 5:45 p.m. - The Mena First United Methodist Church Kidz will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – Warriors for Christ will meet at the Southside Church of God. • 6:00 p.m. – Regeneration Youth Ministries at Mena Church of God Hwy 88 East. • 6:15 p.m. – Dallas Avenue Baptist Church hosts Discovery Kids – Kindergarten Thru 5th Grade; Collide Youth Ministry – 6th Thru 12th Grades; and Adult Bible Study. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Inquiry classes into the Catholic Faith begins in the Parish Hall of St. Agnes Catholic Church at 203 8th St. No cost or obligation. Everyone is invited. Call 394-1017 or 394-5655 for more info.

Weekly Publication

Gov. Hutchinson Approves Arkansas Participation in National Emergency Communication System P CONTRIBUTED BY GOVERNOR ASA HUTCHINSON

ROVIDENCE, RI – Governor Asa Hutchinson today announced that Arkansas will opt in to the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) and AT&T plan to deliver a wireless broadband network to the State’s public safety community. The Governor made the announcement from the National Governors Association’s Summer Conference in Providence, Rhode Island. With the announcement, Arkansas joins Virginia and Wyoming as one of the first states to officially declare their intention to participate in the program. The Governor’s official letter can be found HERE. “After an in-depth review of the FirstNet and AT&T plan by the appropriate state agencies and stakeholders, I have decided to approve their recommendation to opt in to the program,” Governor Hutchinson said. “As a former Undersecretary of Homeland Security after 9/11, I understand the necessity of a reliable stand-alone emergency communications system. FirstNet has received wide support among our community of first responders because it will enable us to respond more quickly during crises when seconds can mean the difference between life and death.” “Governor Hutchinson and I have shared a vision for a safe and secure country since our days in Homeland Security. Today, he has made one of the most economical and technologically advanced decisions he can make for the safety of Arkansas’ residents and first responders,” said former Pennsylvania Governor and Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. “Participation in FirstNet is going to transform how Arkansas’ first responders coordinate during emergencies and everyday situations.” FirstNet and AT&T will build, operate and maintain a highly secure wireless broadband communications network for Arkansas’ public safety community at no cost to the State for the next 25 years. The FirstNet network will deliver innovation and create an entire system of modernized devices, apps and tools for first responders, transforming the way Arkansas’ fire, police, EMS and other public safety personnel communicate and share information. Click HERE for more information on how FirstNet will help public safety save lives and secure communities. “Arkansas has been a tremendous partner to work with to plan and design this network,” said FirstNet CEO Mike Poth. “With today’s decision, Governor Hutchinson realizes public safety’s efforts and sets this life-saving network into motion. We look forward to delivering the technology and communication tools that first responders need to serve and protect the residents of Arkansas.” “In 2015, Governor Hutchinson directed the state to develop a robust process to review whether opting in to FirstNet was the right decision for the state. Since that time, we have been hard at work researching and collaborating with our emergency responders to arrive at the best decision for Arkansas. I would like to thank everyone involved for the work they have done over the last few years leading up to the final review of the plan,” said Director of the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, A.J. Gary. “FirstNet will be a great asset to our first responders and the citizens they serve.” Since 2013, FirstNet has met with Arkansas officials and public safety personnel more than 30 times to address their unique communication needs and challenges. In addition, before Governor Hutchinsonreceived the FirstNet state plan for his approval, the plan was reviewed for potential financial, legal and environmental implications by a group of stakeholders and state agencies including the Governor’s office, the Department of Information Systems, the Attorney General, the Department of Emergency Management and the Arkansas Interoperable Communications Executive Committee. “It is our honor to provide advanced communications capabilities to ensure Arkansas’ first responder community has a network they can rely upon when needed most,” said Ed Drilling, president, AT&T Arkansas. “AT&T has a long history with the public safety community, and together we know we will create a first-of-its-kind network that will help first responders operate faster, safer and more effectively when lives are on the line. We will bring first responders the coverage, value and experience they expect.” About FirstNet The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is an independent authority within the U.S. Department of Commerce. Chartered in 2012, its mission is to ensure the building, deployment, and operation of the nationwide, broadband network that equips first responders to save lives and protect U.S. communities. For more information on FirstNet, please visit FirstNet.gov/mediakit

Opioid Addictions Continue to Rise CONTRIBUTED BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE

at the capitol

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ITTLE ROCK – Last year 384 Arkansas residents died from an overdose of prescription painkillers. That is an increase of one person over the previous year, when 383 people died from an overdose of opioid pain medication. In 2014 there were 356 deaths in Arkansas due to opioid overdoses. The Senate Committee on Public Health, Welfare and Labor heard a report from the state Health Department on the effectiveness of recently enacted laws designed to curb the alarming surge in abuse of painkillers over the past ten years. Opioids are the most widely prescribed type of drug in Arkansas. For example, last year 236 million pills were sold in the state, compared to 102 million depressants and 712,000 stimulants. A Health Department official told the committee that the number of opioids sold in Arkansas in 2016 was enough for every man, woman and child in the state to have taken 80 pills. Another way of looking at the prevalence of opioid sales is to consider that for every adult over the age of 25 in Arkansas, a prescription for opioids was written. In the past few years the legislature has enacted a series of laws to address the crisis in abuse of prescription drugs, including Acts 1208, 901, 1114, 1222 and 895 of 2015, Act 1331 of 2013 and Act 304 of 2011. Act 304 established the prescription drug monitoring program to combat the illegal trade of prescriptions. Act 1331 prevents “doctor shopping,” a practice in which drug abusers go to numerous physicians to obtain prescriptions. The other laws modify the drug monitoring program, for example, by allowing access to law enforcement officials and licensing boards. According to the Health Department, the new laws have been effective in reducing “doctor shopping” by half. The number of drug users who went to at least seven physicians or at least seven pharmacies in 2016 was half the number who did so in 2015. The problem is getting worse, however. The rate of drug-related injuries and deaths due to overdoses has more than doubled since 2000, increasing from 5.1 per 100,000 people to 13.4 per 100,000 people. The epidemic is not only a challenge for law enforcement and drug abuse treatment programs, it is a strain on the resources of social service agencies. Specifically, it has affected foster care and child welfare programs because the spiraling abuse of opioid prescriptions has resulted in growing numbers of children being removed from their homes. In 2015 drug or alcohol abuse by the parents was the reason given for removing children from their families in 34.4 percent of all child abuse and neglect cases nationwide. That compares to 18.5 percent in 2000. In certain areas the problem is even worse. In Ohio last year, drug abuse was the reason cited in more than half of the cases in which a child was removed from his or her family. Experts are learning that due to the potency of opioids, the recovery period from addiction is longer than it is for cocaine and meth, and the possibilities of a relapse are greater. When addicted parents spend longer periods in rehab, their children must spend longer periods in foster care. That adds strain to the already over-burdened foster care system.

January 6, 201

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

July 19, 2017

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Tips to Teach Your Children about Money (StatePoint) It’s never too early to think about the lessons your children are learning about money. Setting a good financial example is just the start. Parents should also actively engage children on the topic. These lessons can help put kids and teens on the right path towards a financially responsible adulthood. How Money Works Now that many consumers use credit or debit cards, buy things online and even purchase movies on their televisions and mobile devices, children may not realize when you are actually spending money and that money is needed to buy things. Take time to explain to them that products and services have different prices. They also need to learn that money can be spent only once, and that after buying something, a person needs to earn more money in order to buy something else. Play “grocery store” or other games that involve buying and selling items. Take turns being the cashier and the customer. Saving for a Goal Teach your children that some things cost more money than they may have now, and that saving means putting some money aside a bit at a time until you have enough to buy what you want. Kids can learn to keep money in a safe place and practice their math skills by keeping track of the amount saved for future spending. To maximize the benefits your child receives for saving money, you may want to consider a Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) or custodial bank account. Those offered by Ally Bank Member FDIC, for example, earn a competitive rate of interest with no monthly maintenance fee. Plus, there’s no minimum balance to open the account. When opening such an account, use this as an opportunity to discuss interest and other basic banking concepts. The Importance of Self-Control Help your children learn the difference between needs and wants or wishes. Explain that although everyone really wants things like toys and electronics, you have to pay for needs - things like food, shelter and heat - before you can buy items that are wants. Help your children come up with a plan to save and spend their own money that takes into account their wants and needs. Making Spending Decisions The next time you need to make a big purchase, talk it through with your child. Explain how you weigh the pros and cons. Show Ginger Sterner how taking time to ask questions, learn about different choices, and Financial Advisor compare what’s good and bad about each choice helps you reach 501c Hwy 71 North good decisions. Mena, AR 71953 “Financial literacy ideally begins in childhood. Even young children 479-394-7940 should learn about basic concepts like saving for a goal and spending only what you can afford,” says Jacqueline Howard, director of Corporate Citizenship at Ally Financial. www.edwardjones.com There are many resources to help you talk to your kids about monMember SIPC ey and finances. Parents can download a free ebook from Ally Bank www.unionbankofmena.com about the basics of money to share with their children at allywalletwise.com or visit fdic.gov/moneysmart for resources for all ages. Spend some time boosting your children’s financial literacy and www.edwardjones.com MEMBER SIPC enforce the concept of smart money management.

Good Luck Polk County Fall Sports! Have a winning season!

MENA HATFIELD - WICKES

479-394-2211

Weekly Publication

Moments from America’s History: First Lady of the Skies

CONTRIBUTED BY JEFF OLSON • olson0371@gmail.com

history

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or those of the past three or four generations, the option of hopping on an airplane to get to our destination of choice has not been a very big deal, provided of course we could afford it. It is amazing to think about, but air travel and especially commercial air travel has been around for less than a century – not a very long time. So much has been learned and accomplished in that relatively brief period, and it has at times come at a very high cost. You and I do not know the number and names of all the aviators who have lost their lives pushing the envelope, living on the edge, defying death in their quest for learning and adventure. And all the while, through their successes and failures, they made progress and paved the way for more advancements and achievements which have brought us to where we are today. Just over ten years after Charles Lindbergh crossed the Atlantic Ocean alone from New York to Paris, a young flier known to her friends as “AE,” set out to set a new record of her own. Amelia Mary Earhart was born in Atchison, Kansas on July 24, 1897. She developed an interest in flying while working as a nurse’s aid in 1918 during World War I. Earhart took her first flying lesson in 1921 and in six months managed to save enough money to buy her first plane. It was a second-hand two-seater biplane painted bright yellow. Earhart named the plane “Canary” and used it to set her first women’s record by rising to an altitude of 14,000 feet. In 1928, she became the first woman to cross the Atlantic Ocean by air (as a passenger). In 1929, she help found the “Ninety Nines,” an international organization of women pilots that still exists today. She served as its first president from 1930 to 1933. In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, an accomplishment which earned her the U.S. Distinguished Flying Cross - the first ever given to a woman. It also earned her the nickname “Lady Lindy.” In 1933, she became the first woman to fly nonstop, coast-to-coast across the United States. Four years later, Earhart and navigator Fred Noonan attempted to fly around the world, a distance of 29,000 miles. Eighty years ago, July 2, 1937, during the most difficult leg of the journey and with only 7,000 miles to complete, their plane vanished near Howland Island in the central Pacific Ocean. No trace of Earhart, Noonan, or the airplane was ever found. Perhaps that will change and more will be learned in the future. Though Amelia Earhart’s attempt to fly around the world failed in it’s mission, it certainly did not fail in exemplifying the best of the American pioneering spirit and courageous resolve to fulfill humankind’s quest for discovering the unknown, pursuing one’s dreams, and inspiring generations yet unborn. In this season of American patriotism, as we look back on what has made American great, Amelia Earhart’s place in our history is firmly secure. In a letter to her husband, written in case a dangerous flight proved to be her last, she wrote, “Please know I am quite aware of the hazards, I want to do it because I want to do it. Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, their failure must be but a challenge to others.” From her poem “Courage” (1927), Earhart writes: “Courage is the price that Life exacts for granting peace, The soul that knows it not, knows no release, From little things; Knows not the livid loneliness of fear Nor mountain heights where bitter joy can hear The sound of wings....”

Weekly Publication

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CONTRIBUTED BY BARBARA M. TOBAIS

barbtobias09@gmail.com

n July 21 and 22 Downtown Partners is hosting Christmas in July. Mena Art Gallery will join the fun with ornaments and Christmas art for sale in the gallery and many activities going on that weekend. The annual 12 Days of Christmas tree will be on display. The ornaments on this tree will be sold by silent auction. Bids start at $200 for 86 unique, handcrafted ornaments made by Niki Dempsey and Jan Wennberg. That’s only $2.32 per ornament. Call the gallery (479-394-3880) if you would like to make a bid and make sure to stop by and see this beautiful tree. Carolynne Cook will make and serve her fabulous Indian Tacos on July 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Even better than turkey! Come join us and all the other Downtown Merchants for Christmas in July.

Vendors for 2017 Ouachita Arts Celebration CONTRIBUTED BY BARBARA M. TOBAIS • barbtobias09@gmail.com

arts

Christmas in July and Indian Tacos

January 6, 2016

his year’s Ouachita Arts Celebration (OAC) will be Saturday, November 4, 2017, and applications from vendors wishing to participate will be accepted from September 1 through October 7 at Mena Art Gallery. Booths are all located on concrete and electricity is available if needed. The primary requirement for vendors is that all work must be hand crafted. Mena Street will be blocked off between Jansen Street and Port Arthur Street so that people from all around southwestern Arkansas can wander freely among all the exhibits. There will be a car show, Tommy Young’s birds, flint knapping, roaming singers, local musicians, children’s crafts, art demonstrations, lots of food, and more. You can pick up detailed information and an entry form with complete rules from the Mena Art Gallery website: www.MenaArtGallery.org. If you still have questions, call Julie at the gallery at 479-394-3880. Hours are 11 am to 2 pm Tuesdays and 10 am to 3 pm Wednesdays through Saturdays. This annual festival of arts has been growing over the last three years, and 2017 promises to be even bigger and better.

We’re Always on at MyPulseNews.com

January 6, 2016

police

July 19, 2017

Weekly Publication

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

Mena Police Department July 9, 2017 A local man reported that someone kicked in his door. Case is pending further investigation. July 10, 2017 Kathy Robertson, 63, of Fort Smith was charged with disorderly conduct after officers responded to a call regarding an unruly patient at the local hospital. July 11, 2017 A local woman reported that someone had left used syringes in her yard and that her dog had possibly ingested a syringe. She took the animal to a veterinarian as a precaution. Case is pending. July 12, 2107 No completed reports filed. July 13, 2017 Brandi Sanders, 30, of Mena was charged with third degree battery and endangering the welfare of a minor after report was made of an altercation at a local residence. Travis Maxwell Dollarhyde, 28, of Mena was charged with criminal mischief and refusal to submit to arrest after officers began investigation into an incident. Also charged with obstruction of governmental operations and refusal to submit to arrest was Robin Renae Matheson, 50, also of Mena. July 14, 2017 Desirae Lee Chapman, 23, of Mena was arrested on two outstanding warrants for failure to pay fines and court costs from the Mena Police Department. Report was taken of someone painting on a door, a fence, and a tree at a local business. Case is pending. July 15, 2017 Herbert Williams, 23, of Mena was charged with driving on a suspended license and careless driving after officers observed an incident on the parking lot of a local retail store. An 11-year-old Mena boy was charged with disorderly conduct and terroristic threatening after officers were called to a

local residence regarding an out-of-control child.

Polk County Sherriff’s Department July 10, 2017 Report from complainant of an individual that refuses to return a vehicle to the appropriate owner. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Sleepy Lane near Potter of the break-in and theft of personal documents, jewelry, electronics and a wallet. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Highway 88 East in Cherry Hill of the break-in and theft of fuel and oil, valued at $100.00. Investigation continues. July 11, 2017 Report from complainant on Polk 238 near Mena of an individual that refuses to return a vehicle to the appropriate owner. The vehicle was later returned and complainant refused to press charges. Report from complainant on Highway 71 South in Hatfield of the theft of jewelry, valued at $50.00. The items were located and returned to the owner. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. July 12, 2017 Traffic stop on Highway 8 West near Mena led to a 15-year-old male and a 14-year-old female each being issued a Juvenile Citation for Public Intoxication. The juveniles were released to the custody of their parents/guardians. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Jim J. Evans, 67, of Mena, on Charges of DWI, Careless/Prohibited Driving, No Liability Insurance, No Driver’s License and Refusal to Submit. July 13, 2017 Report from complainant on Polk 301 near Cherry Hill of being harassed by an acquaintance. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from a Mena woman that an individual refused to return a vehicle to the appropriate owner. The vehicle was later located and returned to the owner. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. July 14, 2017 Report from complainant of a missing Polk County man. The subject’s body was recovered in Chicot County. The investigation has been turned over to the Arkansas State Police.

Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Willie L. Carlson, 47, of Hodgen, OK, on Charges of DWI and Careless/Prohibited Driving. July 15, 2017 Report from complainant on Highway 370 near Board Camp of being scammed by persons posing as Publisher’s Clearing House. Investigation continues. Arrested was Jaylon R. Parnell, 19, of Hatfield, on a Warrant for Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree and Failure to Report an Accident. Arrested was Joseph A. Sparks, 32, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. Report of a one-vehicle accident on Polk 710 near Potter. Deputy responded. Arrested was Blake E. Caldwell, 31, of Mena, on Charges of DWI, Driving Left of Center and Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License and a Body Attachment Warrant. July 16, 2017 Report of a one-vehicle accident on

Polk 87 near Ink led to the arrest of Bobby L. Rosson, 46, of Mena, on a Charge of DWI. Report of a domestic disturbance on Little George Lane near Yocana. Deputies responded. All subjects were advised to cease all contact with one another. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Donald M. Baugh, 57, of Mena, on Charges of Public Intoxication and Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Wendy B. Baugh, 47, of Mena, on Charges of Public Intoxication and Assault on a Family Member 3rd Degree. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked two vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 22 Incarcerated Inmates, with 8 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

July 19, 2017

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Cossatot River School District is accepting application for a Bookkeeper II. Submit application and resume to: Donnie Davis, Supt., 130 School Drive, Wickes, AR 71973 or fax to 870-385-2238 or email ddavis@cossatot. us 7/19 J&N Dozer- Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dump Truck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling, Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer operator Randy Egger, over 30 years’ experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357 TFN For Sale – Beautiful 3 bedroom/ 2 bath. New heat/air, roof, HW heater, appliances. New master bath with tile walk-in shower. Approx. ½ acre of landscaped yard. Great neighborhood. 304 Lakewood. $114,900.00 909238-4134. 8/2

Clean and comfortable housing since 1969, J. Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479-216-3085 TFN Sale July 22 & 23, 9-3. All remaining inventory from Cove Hardware plus garage sale. Offers will be taken on fixtures, coolers, key machine, and the building itself. Old Cove Hardware across Tres Agaves. Interested commercial offers, call 479-216-1214. 7/19

For Rent – Beautiful 3 bedroom/ 2 bath home in lovely neighborhood. $700 per month plus deposit & references. 909-238-4134. 8/2

Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting, home repair, decks, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 479-216-1101 or 479-216-2299. 7/19 House For Sale, 5 acres – 3 bedroom, 2 full bath with office space. Laundry room, Large walk-in pantry. Call for more details, 394-6429. 7/19

The Polk County Pulse & MyPulseNews.com are publications of Pulse Multi-Media.

To submit news items/ announcements: news@mypulsenews.com For billing questions: billing@mypulsenews.com To contact a marketing specialist: ads@mypulsenews.com To submit sports updates: sports@mypulsenews.com To submit calendar items: calendar@mypulsenews.com

House Cleaning and more. Call Winnie Cotter at 234-3418. 8/2

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PET OF THE WEEK Devin is a chatty little kitten who wants to say “Take me home!” This little kittenman is full of fun and loves to play. Very people friendly too! Devin is good with children and other cats. And to top it off...he is as cute as can be!! Adopt Devin and it will prove to be his & your best day ever! Devin will say “Yeah!” Neutered. Shots. Litter box trained. Give our no kill shelter a call. You’ll be glad you did! OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (479) 394-5682 WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org • HSO is a NO KILL Shelter. HSO is not affiliated with any other local, state or national animal rescue organization. HSO is a 501(c)(3) organization. Please consult your tax advisor to see if your donation is tax deductible.

THE POLK COUNTY PULSE

July 19, 2017

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