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4th of July
Rotary
Liberty Soars
County pauses on spending ARP funds
Stewardship may prevent self-sabotage By Jeri Pearson
Page 12-13
Page 3
Eagle release pays homage to Liberty Photo courtesy of Lynn Greenwade
Education/ Sports
July 7, 2021
Page 15- 16
Tommy Young released the third rehabilitated Bald Eagle, named Liberty, July 3. Though most of the eagles released at the same location head straight across the water, Liberty circled back along the tree line, allowing spectators to get a second look.
Local governments have received the first wave of funding, passed by congress as the American Rescue Plan. Polk County will receive a total of $3.8 million Polk County Judge dollars, however according to the Brandon Ellison language in the act, the money can only be spent in specific areas and not for general purposes. This bill provides additional relief to address the continued impact of COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) on the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals, and businesses. Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison said there are a number of issues to consider before spending the funds. “There are 150 pages of guidance of what is eligible,” he said. “It’s similar to the CARES Act, but the CARES money came through state and state sent it to us. We answered to state and those funds were restricted. “The American Rescue Plan is direct to us from the federal government and
See ARP ACT page 4
2 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
Photo courtesy the Arkansas Association of Counties. The County Judges Association of Arkansas met in Jonesboro in June. Special guest Governor Asa Hutchinson attend the conference held in June, where Lindsey Holman, CEO/Principal of Holman Strategies, discussed the American Rescue Plan. Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston said a few words to the judges, and Arkansas GIS Director Shelby Johnson spoke about redistricting. Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison serves as vice-president on the Arkansas County Association’s board of directors, and Polk County Clerk Terri Harrison serves as a secretary/ treasurer on the board.
2021 Football/Cheer Registration July 12 5th & 6th Grade
July 13 3rd & 4th Grade
McMillan Park Pool 5:30-7:30 Bring your athlete for some swimming while you register them for the upcoming season!
Photo Courtesy Scott Sawyer Arkansas Sheriffs' Association 2021 Summer Conference was held in Jonesboro on June 6-9. Special guest speakers were Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Jami Cook and Don Blackmore. Sheriff's, Jail Administrators, and deputies receive information and training during the conference. Above, Randy Jewell, Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Sheriff Scott Sawyer visit during the conference.
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
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Our Team: Ashley Smith- General Manager Jeri Pearson - Editor Ethan Nahté - Production Manager John Russell - Graphic Design Trey Youngdahl- Digital Producer Curt Teasdale - Programmer/ On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Melissa Fetters - Account Executive Emily Liles - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Maddie Gunn, Jamie Beckwith The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
News 3
Rotary
Photos courtesy of Polk County - Mena Rotary
Above, Past President Crystal Liles inducted Linda Rexroad, Secretary, Debra Buschman, President, Tanner Hooper, President-Elect and Linda Rowe, Secretary for the 2021-2022 Rotary year. Not pictured are Carla Vaught, Vice President, Amber Goodner, Director and Sue Cavner, Director. Top right, President Buschman was presented with her first Paul Harris Fellowship. New members, Brenda Miner, from UARM (second right photo) and Jessica Smith of Mena Regional Medical Center (third right photo) were inducted by Membership Chair Sue Cavner (not pictured). Vice President Charles Pitman presented Crystal with a personalized Rotary jacket and a Paul Harris Fellowship (her second), in appreciation of her service, bottom right photo. Recognized for perfect attendance were: Crystal Liles - 3 years, Sue Babel - 8 years, Sue Cavner - 21 years, Linda Rowe - 21 years. Rotary members also said "so long" to Charles Pitman. He was presented with a beautiful watch with an inscription about his 15 years of Rotary service.
The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after hour convenience.
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4 News
July 7, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Arkansas Municipal League ARP ACT continued from page 1 a lot more restraints on how it can lost a lot of revenue.” names Turner as District 4 VP puts Ellison said the county was able to be spent,” Ellison continued. “It’s a lot
Peter Christie, District 3 The Arkansas Municivice president. pal League at its 87th AnThe League hosted the nual Virtual Convention, convention and annual held June 16-18, presented business meeting coma new slate of officers for pletely online, and it feathe 2021-2022 year. Mena tured a combination of live Council Member James and pre-recorded sessions Turner was elected District focusing on current events 4 vice president. Turner has previously James Earl Tuner and timely programming covering a variety of topics served the League on the Cities of the First Class Advisory Council, important to municipalities for a re2006-2010 and 2014-2018; as chair of mote audience of about 900 city and the Cities of the First Class Advisory town officials and personnel. The Arkansas Municipal League is a Council, 2018-2019; and on the Execservice and advocacy organization for utive Committee, 2019-2021. Other officers elected for 2021-2022 the municipalities of Arkansas. The include Berryville Mayor Tim McK- League offers its programs and services inney, president; Sherwood Mayor to the 500 cities and towns in Arkansas Virginia Young, first vice president; and was created in 1934 to assist cities Lakeview Mayor Dennis Behling, Dis- with information and representation in trict 1 vice president; Beebe City Clerk/ the public affairs of our state and naTreasurer Carol Westergren, District 2 tion. To find out more, visit arml.org. vice president; and Bella Vista Mayor
of money; we are slated to receive $3.8 million.” Ellison said there is not currently a plan on how to spend it, and the use of a consultant will be necessary to ensure the funds are utilized on approved purchases and projects. “I don’t know how to spend it at this time,” Ellison said. “There are so many restrictions on it; the purpose is to mitigate COVID, but it could be for revenue loss. But right now, we don’t know if we meet the qualifications to claim revenue loss, or delayed growth that was impacted by COVID.” Ellison said states and areas that shut down may benefit more from the federal package. “We didn’t lose revenue,” he said. “This is possibly a reward to blue states and a penalty to red states. Most of the red states kept working and kept generating revenue. Where as the blue states gummed up the supply chain, caused inflation, told people not to work and
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direct CARES Act funding to entities in the county which met the qualifications of the CARES Act, including the Polk County Fair and Rodeo Association, and both the Polk County and Mena Senior Centers, as well as the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office. However, the ARP metrics are more stringent. “If we had lost $3.8 million, I could put that money in the general fund, but we didn’t,” he said. “I’ve been through the document and we will need help from Arkansas Association of Counties.” A RFQ, Request for Qualification, has been advertised by the county, seeking a consultant for the endeavor. “We need to get ideas from each other, and I have a few ideas but don’t know if it is going to work,” Ellison said. “It will be hard to stay within the guidelines. We don’t want the federal government coming back after we have spent money, say it is isn’t eligible and ask for that money back after it has been spent,” he continued. “So we are going to be super careful and slow and let things evolve and develop and get input from other counties and recommendations.” Though the first payment of $1.3 million has been received, the county has until Dec. 31, 2026 to spend the funds and until 2024 to decide how to spend it. “There is no need for us to get in a hurry,” Ellison said.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
State News 5
July 7, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives
revenue come from individual Arkansas started a new fiscal income tax and sales and use year this week, and final retax. ports for the previous year give Individual income tax colus an optimistic outlook about lections totaled $3.97 billion. the future of our economy. That is $550 million or 16.1% Fiscal Year 2021 ended on above FY2020. June 30. We began Fiscal Year Sales and Use collections 2022 on July 1. totaled $2.88 billion. That is Results from collections and distributions for FY2021 John Maddox $340 million or 13.4% above FY2020. reached $6.845 billion. This Corporate Income Taxes totaled is $1.09 billion or 19% above prior-year $651.9 million. That is an increase of results. The collections fully funded the Rev- $169.8 million or 35.2% above FY2020. This week, the Governor authorized enue Stabilization Act for the Fiscal Year 2021 and left a surplus of $945.7 the Department of Finance and Administration to increase the state foremillion. The fiscal year ended above forecast cast for FY2021 by $213 million. This increase allowed for $86.6 milin all major categories of collections and above year-ago levels. The Depart- lion to be diverted to the Medicaid ment of Finance and Administration trust fund. That brings the balance of says there are several contributing fac- the trust fund to more than $600 million, ensuring that there are adequate tors. The deadline for individual income funds for the healthcare of low-income taxes was extended last year to July. Arkansans. After the revised forecast, the state’s Payroll withholding tax exceeded expectations amid a faster rebound in Long-Term Reserve Fund has a balthe state economy. Sales tax exceeded ance of $1.22 billion. The Governor has indicated he will expectations from the combined factors of an economic rebound, stimulus call a special session this fall to address transfers, and growth in online mar- future tax cuts. We will continue to update you on any developments. ketplace sales. The state’s most significant sources of
Contact Your Legislators! John Maddox
john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060
Larry Teague
Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903 Nashville, AR 71852 870-845-5303
John Boozman
1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553
Bruce Westerman 101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887
From the
State Senate
in education, from adminisThe state Board of Education has approved another trators and teachers to sturound of plans submitted dents and parents. Support by Arkansas school districts staff in the cafeteria and that want the option of ofbus drivers were affected, as fering online classes in the were cleaning staff who had fall. to sanitize classrooms more At a special meeting, the frequently. Board approved 60 appli- Larry Teague Revised Forecast cations from school districts June 30 was the final day of and charter schools. the state’s 2021 fiscal year. The goverThe Board is prepared to decide on nor and budget officials revised the up to 50 additional applications be- official forecast upward, to reflect fore school resumes. Counting deci- better than anticipated revenue over sions made at previous meetings, the the past 12 months. The forecast was Board so far has approved about 90 raised by about $212 million for the applications by school districts. fiscal year. Applications to offer virtual classes Tax collections are an accurate baare usually accompanied by a request rometer of the state’s economic econfor a waiver from traditional educa- omy because tax rates have not gone tion standards. up. Increases in state revenue mean Waivers exempt the schools from that business activity has grown and regulations that limit maximum class more people are working. sizes and the number of students asFederal stimulus payments to indisigned to an individual teacher. Also, viduals and businesses were a factor the Board can grant waivers that that recovery of the Arkansas econreduce the total number of hours a omy. student must spend in a particular Under the new forecast, state gencourse. eral revenue for Fiscal Year 2021 will Board members had questions be about $5.89 billion. about plans by some districts to have The governor announced that the teachers conducting online classes revised forecast means that an adwhile also teaching students in the ditional $86.6 million will be transclassroom. In response, representaferred into the state’s Medicaid trust tives of those districts said that fewer fund. That increases the fund to more students are expected to take online than $600 million, and bolsters Medclasses this year. Also, teachers will have more icaid’s ability to reimburse medical training in online education this providers who care for the elderly, year, compared to last year when the people with disabilities and patients Covid-19 pandemic caused so much from low-income families. The revised revenue forecast also disruption in schools. Some school districts plan to sign means that the state’s long term recontracts with private vendors that serve fund will be about $1.2 billion. Budget officials think the reserve specialize in online classes. So far, the Board has approved all fund is enough to improve the state’s the plans submitted by local school bond ratings. Some education institutions can districts. Many virtual courses will be recorded, rather than live, so that carry forward unspent money from students can take the online classes at one fiscal year to the next. The revised forecast means that they will any time of the day. Last school year the Covid-19 pan- have about $101 million for Fiscal demic disrupted everyone involved Year 2022.
6 History
July 7, 2021
Daniel Joseph Baugh
Daniel Joseph Baugh, age 61, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, in CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on Wednesday, May 25, 1960, to LPayton Monroe Baugh and Bettye Oleta McGee in Burbank, California. Daniel served proudly in the United States Marine Core. He was a jeweler for thirty-one years and had a real talent for it. Daniel liked to make all sorts of jewelry, necklaces, belt buckles, and rings. He enjoyed spending time with his family and listening to Merle Haggard. Daniel was a loving brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents. Daniel is survived by two brothers and sister-in-law, Larry and Karen Baugh of Mena, and Donald Baugh of Mena; one sister, Pat Fish of Mena; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
Beverly Thomas
B e v e r l y Thomas, age 88, of Mena, Arkansas, died Monday, June 28, 2021, at CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born on Wednesday, June 21, 1933, to Clarence Edward and Frances Nadine Baldwin Williams in Kingsville, Missouri. Beverly was a Godly woman and showed her love to others by helping them anyway she could without hesitating. She was a member and Elder of the Community of Christ Church in Grannis for over 25 years. Her children
loved her, and they brought great joy to her. Beverly loved her flowers and was very proud to have received her bachelor’s degree. Beverly was a loving mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald Thomas; two daughters, Susan Lawson and Rose Thomas; and her great-grandson Harley Thomas. Beverly is survived by her three sons, Donald Thomas Jr. of Mena, Edward Thomas of Kingsville, Missouri, and Timothy Thomas of Sedalia, Missouri; two daughters, Angela Thomas of Jasper, Texas, and Karin Lidberg of Ft. Myers, Florida; one brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Judy Williams of Independence, Missouri; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Lois and Dennis Campbell of Georgetown, Texas, and Debbie and Kevin Culp of Lee Summit, Missouri; seventeen grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 1, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at the Board Camp Cemetery. Services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
Orville Lewis Wagner
Mr. Orville Lewis Wagner, age 81, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family. The son of Earnest and Lizzie (Davis) Wagner, Orville was born on November 11, 1939, in Mena. Orville served his country in the United States Army National Guard. He was united in marriage to Sandie Warren. Orville’s legacy is his love for cars. He is a legend in the racing world, both drag racing and stock car racing, a passion which he has passed on to four generations of his family.
He owned and operated Wagner’s Mena Paint & Body, and later Wagner’s Classic Cars. You can find some of his restorations in museums across the country. Spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, was special to him. He will be dearly missed. He is survived by his wife, Sandie; sons, Steve Wagner, Mike Wagner and wife Dawn, Scott Buss and wife Barbara, and Eric Latham and wife Kim; grandchildren, Mindy Menotti and husband Chris, Mycah Thurman and husband Kyle, Lindsey Buss, Cameron Wagner and wife Brittany, Caitlin Hurst and husband Adam, Kelsey Wagner, Tori Morton and husband Tanner, Jonathan Buss, Bradley Anderson and fiancée Kailyn Deramus, Olivia Latham, and Connor Latham; great-grandchildren, Karson Bowles, Blaisen Bowles, Kross Bowles, Brantley Phillips, Kyra Morton, Demi Morton, Raelynne Howard, Brody Menotti, Anneliese Thurman, Maverick Menotti, Vincent Menotti, Cordelia Anderson, and Sutton Hurst; brothers, Bennie Wagner and wife Janice, and Willie Wagner and wife Barbara; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Orville was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Olen Wagner; and his sister, Faye Wagner. A funeral service for Mr. Wagner will be held 2:00 pm, Monday, July 5, 2021, at the Beasley-Wood Funeral Chapel with Brother Billy Dunahoo and Ronnie Wagner officiating. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Sunday, July 4, 2021, at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Cameron Wagner, Karson Bowles, Jonathan Buss, Vincent Rudman, Brennon Ayers, and Wyatt Wagner. Honorary pallbearers will be Ed Medlin, Ray Lovett, Carl Polk, and William Deramus. Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Steven Lee Squires
Steven Lee Squires, age 57, of Cove, Arkansas, died on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at home in Cove, Arkansas. He was born on Wednesday, April 29, 1964, to Donald Ollen Squires and Diamond Merlyn Wilson in Bakersfield, California. Steven was the Pastor of the Noble Learning Center in Cove for fifteen years. It was his life calling to seek the truth in God’s Word. He was also a talented Architectural Drafter and was honored for his skill. Steven liked rock and roll music and enjoyed playing his guitar and reading his bible. God and family always guided his life, and he cherished every moment. He adored his grandchildren and was so proud of the family and life God had provided. Steven was a loving husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and uncle and will be missed by all who knew him. Steven is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Vicky Squires of Cove; his father and stepmother, Don and Karen Squires of Cove; his mother, Diamond Nicholes of Cove; four sons and daughters in law, Donny and Chorvy Squires of Lacey, Washington, Willy and Chrissy Squires of Cove, Tyler and Magan Squires of Smackover, Arkansas, and Ethan and Keirsten Squires of Cove; one brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Deidra Squires
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
of Cove; nine grandchildren, Presley, Paxton, Elizabeth, Victoria, Adrianna, Kaydence, Maddison, Elinor, and Gideon; and a host of other relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 9, 2021, at 7:00 P.M. at the Noble Learning Center in Cove. Cremation services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to the Noble Learning Center at 342 Polk Road 32, Cove, AR 71937. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
Douglas Clinton Mills
D o u g l a s Clinton Mills, age 72, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Thursday, June 24, 2021, at National Park Hospital in Hot Springs. He was born on Thursday, March 10, 1949, to Harold Deveral and Mildred Josephine Sharp Mills in Medford Oregon. Doug was a member of the Hillcrest Baptist Church in Mena. He loved his family and traveling to as many National Parks as he and his wife Rose could during his retirement. Doug was a gamer and enjoyed playing games on his computer and having a house full of family to play different card games. For 32 years Doug worked for Southwestern Bell as a Communication Tech. Doug was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and uncle and will be missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Shirley Mills and their daughter, Alicia Renée Nichols. Doug is survived by his wife, Rose Mills of Mena; his daughter and sonin-law, Kelly and Matt Hunter of Mena; his brother, Gary Mills of Hot Springs; three grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. No service is planned at this time. Cremation services are entrusted to the Bowser Funeral Home in Mena. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
History 7
Reflections from History & Faith:
Professing & Confessing
By Jeff Olson
Today, church buildings are usually occupied several times a week by many people, some of whom have experienced the new birthwho are a part of the church, the family of God, the Body of Christ. Their conversion included a profession of faith in Jesus Christ, personal and perhaps public as scripture encourages (Matthew 10:32). By definition, the word profession means in part, “a declaration.” But another part of this definition includes the phrase, “whether true or false.” To confess, on the other hand, means to come to the point where you admit or acknowledge that something is true. The word is used in two foundational ways in the Bible:1) to admit guilt in a sin (as in "confessing my sins" – Daniel 9:20); and, 2) to acknowledge a truth to be so (as in those who "confess that Jesus is the Son of God" – 1 John 4:15). Most of us can probably identify with making a profession of some kind, and perhaps even one or more which were not true. Hopefully, a profession of faith in Christ was not one of those. A profession expressing salvation is the beginning of a process which should be characterized not only by a lifestyle of professing Jesus Christ but also a lifestyle of confessing Jesus Christ. You may ask; can we profess Christ in exclusion of confessing Christ? Yes, and some of us do. Well. actually, all of us do – even believers though it should be rare. The Apostle Peter is one of the most notable examples of this. He boldly professed Christ on a regular basis but when it came down to where the “rubber meets the road” what happened? Did Peter confess or deny Christ?
From Matthew 26:33-35, we know that Peter’s intentions were good but from verses 69-75 we also know that he denied Jesus three times, something he said he would not do and yet did. Peter boldly professed Christ, yet he would not confess Christ when the going got tough - and Jesus knew this would occur - just like He knows each of us better than we know ourselves. As we should see from Peter’s example, confession includes the elements of personal identification, commitment to truth, and sometimes courage - all of which should transcend circumstances. It is often very easy and convenient to profess our personal beliefs and creeds and to even embellish them with “Christ” or “Christian” or “the Lord” and yet at the same time not confess or identify with the suffering Servant, the crucified Christ, the One who came to serve - not to be served (Romans 10:9-10). Another excellent example of this can be found in the life of Mar-
tin Luther (1483-1546), an Augustinian monk who was instrumental in the Protestant Reformation. Luther, once he found the key that unlocked the redemptive story of the Bible and rediscovered the grace of God, was used by God to challenge the core of false theologies and to open the door for the written word of God to be accessible to thousands of people. Luther stated, “If I profess with the loudest voice and the clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ.” Exactly! Peter came to understand, as Luther understood, that where the battle rages the loyalty of the soldier is proved - where profession is validated or proven hollow. While profession of Christ without confession in Christ in itself is not absolute proof of the absence of personal salvation, it certainly can
See HISTORY page 9
8 Faith
THE POLK COUNTY
July 7, 2021
An Arkie’s Faith: Sleepy Sickness
By Richie Lawry During the winter of 1916–17, a strange new disease spread across Europe and the world. People were afflicted with unusual neurological symptoms such as excessive sleepiness, difficulty controlling eye movements, and other movement disorders. Not every patient had all the characteristic symptoms, and not all of them experienced the same severity. At first, patients were diagnosed as having meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or delirium. But as the disease spread, doctors began to realize they were dealing with something they had never seen before. Encephalitis lethargica was first officially recognized by the medical community as a separate disease in 1917. People afflicted with this new disease exhibited strange behaviors and overwhelming lethargic sleepiness, which gave it its common name, sleepy sickness. The movement of troops across Europe during World War I helped spread the disease. Sleepy sickness affected at least half a million people in Europe and spread throughout the world to hundreds of thousands more. One-third of the patients died from respiratory failure caused by neurological dysfunction. And while hundreds of thousands of patients died, many survived. In the disease’s final phase, a patient’s movement becomes stiff and slow, as it does in those with Parkinson’s disease. Some patients slow to the pace of sleepwalkers; others become motionless, living statues for years. Although their minds appear to remain clear during their brief times of clarity, those who suffered the sleepy sickness lacked all sense of the passing of time. By 1930, the sleepy sickness epidemic had ended as quickly as it had started. Even though there were almost no new cases, many people were still living with the effects of the disease. The prevailing medical view at the time was that these people were stuck like that. There was nothing that could be done but keep them alive in the hospital. In the early 70s, Dr. Oliver Sacks worked at Mount Carmel, which had 80 patients with these symptoms. The patients had been trapped within themselves, some for decades. The nurses who worked with sleepy sickness patients at the hospital told Dr. Sacks that now and then, one of those patients would do
“I cannot pretend I am without fear. But my predominant feeling is one of gratitude. I have loved and been loved.” - Dr. Oliver Sacks something to indicate that they are still in there. Dr. Sacks longed to be able to help his patients, but there were no treatments available. He realized that some of their issues are similar to Parkinson’s Disease. He wondered what would happen if he gave his patients L-dopa, a brand-new drug for treating Parkinson’s. When he administered the drug, their frozen faces melted, smiles appeared, eyes started to look around and get bright and twinkle, unused voices appeared, and unused muscles began to work. Imagine what it was like for those people. Dr. Sacks had only been with them for a year and a half, but they had been in this catatonic state for decades. They have been frustrated, awake on the inside, not being able to communicate. And then, along comes Dr. Sacks, who spends some time with them, gets to know them, listens to the nurses, and is willing to try to help them. But unfortunately, L-dopa was not the miracle cure Dr. Sacks was looking for. In his book Awakenings, he wrote, “But then, almost all of them ran into trouble, developing not only specific side effects of L-dopa, but certain general patterns of trouble, too. Some of the patients would react differently to the drug each time we tried it. I tried altering the doses, titrating them carefully, but this no longer worked. The system now seemed to have a dynamic of its own. There seemed to be with many of the patients, nothing between too much L-dopa and too little.” Dr. Sacks had been documenting the stories of his patients so that he could write a book, but he felt guilty about his role in their stories. He almost decided not to publish the book Awakenings at all. But his patients convinced him to publish the book. They told him that they needed to have their story told. They have felt neglected by society, by the medical establishment for decades, so they want him to tell their story. Awakenings was a best seller in 1973, and in 1990 a film version was released starring Robin
Pulse
Williams and Robert De Niro. Although 100 years have elapsed since the beginning of the epidemic period, many questions remain about this Sleepy Sickness. What causes it? How is it transmitted? Could an epidemic happen again? Encephalitis lethargica was characterized in a 2004 BBC documentary as the most significant medical mystery of the 20th century. We are fortunate that sleepy sickness and its horrible symptoms are no longer causing problems; only around eighty cases have been diagnosed since 1940. But there is another sleepy sickness that is still infecting the world. Paul talks about it in Romans 13:8-11 (NCV). “Do not owe people anything, except always owe love to each other, because the person who loves others has obeyed all the law. The law says, ‘You must not be guilty of adultery. You must not murder anyone. You must not steal. You must not want to take your neighbor’s things.’ All these commands and all others are really only one rule: ‘Love your neighbor as you love yourself.’ Love never hurts a neighbor, so loving is obeying all the law. Do this because we live in an important time. It is now time for you to wake up from your sleep, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” Paul is telling us to wake up from our sleep. If we are Christians and honestly know Jesus, he gives us the power to love. Our sleepy sickness is our inability to love others. We live in a critical time, and we need to wake up and start loving our neighbors, even those we don’t agree with or understand. Paul says very plainly that we should love everyone, that we owe them our love. I wonder what kind of radical things would start happening if we were to wake up and start living like we owed love to each other? Gentle Reader, too often, the Christian world focuses on pointing out those we disagree with and expressing our displeasure with them. But this is the opposite of what the Bible teaches. “Love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:7,8 (NIV) We need to wake up from our collective hate and step into the light of God’s love. “Light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, ‘Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.’” Ephesians 5:14 (NLT)
Joke of the Week: No matter what you believe, at the end of the day……it’s night.
Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
HISTORY continued from page 7 and may be if this is the normal state of affairs for an individual. Profession without confession is often seen in those who talk the talk but don't or can't walk the walk because: 1) they've never known God (Titus 1:16), 2),because their relationship with Him is at best nominal or shallow (2 Peter 1:5-9), or 3) perhaps there was no discipling after salvation where learning to live the Christian life is taught and mentored. Consequently, all these conditions have rendered much of the Church impotent in a potent counter-
Community 9
culture and cancel culture. It is far past time that we, like Peter, Martin Luther and others join on the field of battle for the heart and soul of those around us and for our culture and nation. We must never lose sight that the battle is the Lord’s (1 Samuel 17:47, 2 Chronicles 20:15) and it will be won or lost in great part from the degree to which our professing Christ and confessing Christ are not only consistent with one another but one and the same.
July Red, White & Blue Cash Mob is Saturday
Submitted by Judy Thompson
Red, white and blue are definitely the patriotic colors which celebrate our country and our freedoms. On this Saturday, the red, white and blue Cash Mob shouts out “the freedom to buy local and shop small”! Each person who shows up wearing red, white and/or blue will have the opportunity to register for a special door prize. The Mena Star will be hosting the Cash Mob this month on July 10, 10:00 AM, at their office on the corner of Mena and Port Arthur. Judy Thompson, Downtown Business Liaison, advises that the Cash Mob is open to everyone. She states that this is not something you have to sign up for or promise to attend each one. This is a way to have fun with your friends, meet new people and support Buy Local efforts. The monthly host provides complimentary refreshments. There are then door prizes, games and more fun before the name of the business to be ‘mobbed’is drawn. Cash Mobs are popular in cities across the nation. A Cash Mob is a community effort that joins people together to support local businesses. In
this effort, the Cash Mob will converge on a downtown retailer that is a member of Mena Downtown Partners. As all Mob’sters commit to spend at least $20 at the business that is drawn, it brings an immediate economic impact to a locally-owned business with longterm positive results. Participants are encouraged not only to shop, but to meet new friends and socialize. The Mob meets the second Saturday of the month at 10:00 AM at a predetermined place for morning refreshments. All participating MDP retailers who have not yet been selected will have their business names placed in a container. One of the Mob’sters will draw the name and then the Mob will proceed to the selected business for a fun shopping experience. Rules are simple 1) Commit to spend at least $20 at each Cash Mob and 2) Have fun! You do not have to be pre-registered as a Mob member. The Mob is open to everyone. Just show up and sign your form at the door. Help the local economy and indulge in that all-American pastime of….shopping! Bring your friends and family Saturday for a great time.
10 Community
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
Last Weekend for BIG
Plus July’s “Movie Night” at OLT Submitted by OLT
DogDays Days Dog Summer ofofSummer COOLDOWN DOWN COOL 2021! 2021!
Six Lucky Winners! Will each receive a 4-pack of tickets to Magic Springs Theme & Water Park REGISTER AT ONE OR MORE OF THESE LOCAL SPONSORS then listen to 104.1 KENA every Friday during the noon hour between July 2nd and August 6th to see if you are a lucky winner!
TJ's Convenience Store - E Hornbeck Ave, Hatfield Davis Brothers Collision - 1000 Hwy 71 N, Mena Gabriel Clothing - 601 Hwy 71 N Suite P, Mena Freedom Pharmacy - 710 4th St, Mena Miller Signs & Graphix/Quicksilver - 1100 HWY 71N Ste.E, Mena Allbaugh's Florist and Gifts - 709 Mena St, Mena Also Sponsored by: ACCI - Mena & Area Solar - Hatfield (these boxes are available at The Polk County Pulse 1168 Hwy 71S Mena)
This is the last chance to see BIG the Musical at OLT! Final performances are July 9,10, and 11; Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2:30 PM. Reserved seating is available for no extra charge at the OLT office, 610 Mena Street, Suite A, and also available at the door. Season tickets are honored either way you choose to purchase. Join us for “Wednesday Night at the Lyric” July 14 where we feature classic films for community enjoyment with FREE admission. Donations are always welcome, and the concession stand will be open for fresh popcorn and other snacks. In keeping with our recent theme of mid-century blockbuster musicals, July’s offering is West Side Story. This is a film co-directed in 1961 by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins starring Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer. The movie is based on the Broadway musical which debuted in 1957 and broke barriers with the inspired music by Leonard Bernstein and groundbreaking choreography by Robbins. The story is based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and includes a mid-20th century twist with gang violence incited by lovers who are of different ethnicity. Add in the sophisticated music by Bernstein with Stephen Sondheim lyrics and some of the best dance scenes in filmed musical history, you have an audio-visual treat you will never forget. Stephen Spielberg is currently poised to release his updated version of West Side Story in December of this year. But if you are a musical movie fan, you owe it to yourself to see the original screen version with your friends and family first.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
My Pulse Hogspore News Born to be Wild By Clet Litter from the Ozarks Tony’s Barbershop Think Tank was mulling over the question: What were you born for? Morton Trubletoof was the first to give his answer, “I was born to be slapped by a midwife.” Old Man Grimely was next, “I was born to be rich and married to a beautiful, much younger woman. I just never
July 7, 2021 thought it would take this long.” I’m gonna list the other answers together, cause I don’t feel like giving each of them a paragraph with all the extra work of quotation marks: I was born to be a hardware store owner who likes to explode things. I was born to be wild, but my cellmate taught me otherwise. I was born to be indecisive, but I wanna ponder my final answer for a while, maybe even phone a friend. I was born to appreciate everything. I couldn’t be happier, and I appreciate that too. I was born to be married to an understanding wife, but that didn’t work out. Ev-
erybody in the barbershop agreed with the last one. The post office in town is getting it done. Sheriff Combover was bragging on them. He said, “I got my water bill that was only mailed the day before. The envelope was still damp.” Duncan Winslow’s Pancake Breakfast down in the Holler starts flipping flapjacks and clanging pancake turners this Saturday at 8 am. Proceeds go to find a cure for overeating. It’s right unfortunate that the breakfast happens in the same month as Baked Bean Month, National Hot Dog Month, and Nation-
Humor 11 al Ice Cream Month. Hope you had a great Independence Day celebration. It was a relaxing time to appreciate all we have. Always trying to make Freedom better. Mumford Pickens says, “You don’t have to go looking for happiness. Just invite it in.” Thanks for allowing me to give you the opportunity to laugh for fourteen years. That doesn’t mean I’m quitting, unless you’ve heard something. Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you want to.
12 Community
July 7, 2021
4th of July in Mena
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Above, Terry Crawford and Linda Swan enjoying the shade of their truck while they wait for the fireAbove, Hog Wild Pyrotechnics of works show to start. Lowell Arkansas prepares for the fireworks show Sunday. From left, Scott Visalli, Terry Crawford, and Michelle Jenkins. At left, Shannon Faught painting the face of Whitney Horne, Mena Polk County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. Photos by Trey Youngdahl
MFD treats PCDC to Fourth Fun
Courtesy Photo
Mena Fire Department offers a cool treat to Polk County Development Center as part of Independence Day fun.
Elks Lodge offers Independence Day delights Photos by Ashley Smith
At left, Curt Teasdale dances for freedom at the Elks Lodge Saturday. Below, girls enjoy the hula-hoop contest. Top right, Phyllis Caldwell (forground) offers concessions. Bottom right, from left, Chris Schell and Scuba Steve grill during the festivities offered at the Elks Saturday.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
4th of July 13
VANDERVOORT Celebration
Above, Barbara Vallee requests donations for the Vandervoort Fire Department and next year’s fireworks show at the fair grounds gate . Below, vendors offer tasty treats, wares and fun to crowds at the Vandervoort 4th of July Picnic. Photos by Jeri Pearson
Above, center, basketball is enjoyed Saturday in Vandervoort by youth during a break in the line-up of activities scheduled for the 4th of July weekend. Above, right, crowds filled the stands at Vandervoort fairgrounds during the Little Miss and Mister Pageant, which raised money through raffle ticket sales that go towards continuing the long standing celebration each year. Bottom, right, Little Miss and Mr. Vandervoort participants show off their trophies to adoring family and friends.
SHADY Shin-Dig Photos by Ashley Smith
At left, Truett Seebach and Maggie Bailey-Seebach enjoy the fireworks display at Sugar Creek Lodge in Shady. At right, eager viewers gather and prepare for the fireworks show at Sugar Creek Lodge in Shady.
14 Outdoors
July 7, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL
IT’S GAME TIME By Steven E Stillwell I had an interesting conversation with someone the other day, and we were talking about the television survival program, ALONE. They asked, “What would you do if you were a contestant on the show, or if you knew someone who’d been selected, and they asked you for advice?” That’s a great question I thought, so I’ll share my hypothetical game plan, and a few recommendations! For those of you who aren’t familiar with the series, this is a survival contest of endurance. Ten Bushcrafters are dropped off in separate and extremely remote locations with minimal gear, ten items from a preapproved list, and they try to thrive for as long as possible. The last person remaining wins a grand prize totaling $500,000 dollars. This is certainly a motivating factor, but in spite of the lucrative reward, some TAP-OUT voluntarily because of the isolation factor, lack of resources, especially food, or injuries incurred in the field. At certain intervals, a medical crew checks on the physical welfare of each contestant, and all of them are weighed. If someone is severely emaciated, the staff immediately removes the individual and their personal quest is terminated. After reviewing the GEAR LIST, these are the items I’d pick. Clothing doesn’t
count toward the tally, but you’re only allowed to pack a certain amount. My selection is as follows; Sleeping bag, Ferro-rod, Fishing line with Hooks, 2 quart pot, Snare-wire, Axe, Pack-saw, Bow and arrows, Knife, and a 12x12 tarp. The extra tarp that comes with the camera equipment will be utilized as an awning during the warmer months, and possibly as a roof for a makeshift, hunting blind. I’M NOT AN ARMCHAIR SURVIVALIST. Over the years, I’ve spent a considerable amount of time in the field in various environments, some extremely harsh, and my forte is hunting. I’d consider an ALONE experience to be an extended hunting trip. One of the primary mistakes I’m seeing some of the contestants making is the expenditure of time, energy and calories on shelters and other projects while neglecting the most important thing. THE TIME CLOCK IS TICKING. A consistent hunting, fishing, foraging and trapping repertoire is the only thing that’s going to keep you in the game. IF YOU DON’T, EAT YOU’RE FINISHED. DROP SHOCK happens when a contestant loses their focus, and confusion sets in after being relocated in the middle of nowhere! Age has its advantages, because you become accustom to doing the same things every time you’re in the wilderness. I’ll be 60 this year, so I have a lot of rodeos under my belt. I can set-up a camp really fast, because I’ve done it so many times! DAY ONE; THIS IS WHAT I’D DO. The first priority is an expedient shelter; you can always make improvements after you figure out the terrain, animal patterns and locate the good fishing holes. IF YOU CAN’T PROCURE FOOD, YOUR DAYS ARE NUMBERED. You’ll also need a fire-pit, because you’ve got to start purifying and boiling water as you knock out a quick place to sleep. I can guarantee that you’ll be thirsty when you’re finished working. With a tarp and five poles, I can make a shelter in approximately one hour that’s waterproof, and it has a folding flap for an enclosed front door. Sharpen a stick that’s three feet in length to keep as a close quarter’s weapon, just in case some gnarly varmint decides to poke its head through the flap while you’re sleeping. A SHARP STICK IN THE EYE is the best way to greet an uninvited guest. Self defense is paramount when you’re not at the top of the food chain. All of the contestants are supplied with a can of powerful bear mace, and an air-horn as an added deterrent. SCOUTING IS SENSELESS IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR. Fresh water, and food sources attract animals, and that’s a fact. Every time you venture away from camp, carry your bow, because you never know what you’re going to stumble across. Game trails will look like well beaten paths, and they usually lead to, and from, bedding areas, watering holes, and grassy meadows where animals replenish themselves! Scrape-lines, rubs, droppings, and territorial markings are great indicators that animals are frequenting an area. The more you see, the greater the odds of tagging one. IT’S ALL ABOUT FOOD. Ground blinds, elevated ladder stands, a viable trapline, this includes snaring birds, fishing poles, and trot lines should be at the top of your list, and be mindful to forage for wild edibles while you’re exploring. You can also whittle fishing lures from scrap pieces of wood when you’re idly sitting by the campfire. Colorful berries and plants can also be used to stain them, and this will increase your chances of success! Sanitation and hygiene are also important. Avoid urinating or defecating around your blinds or stands because, YOUR PREY WILL SMELL YOU A MILE AWAY. Pay attention to the wind direction, and if it’s not in your favor, move to another spot where it is. Take care of your feet, and try to bath as often as possible.
See BUSHCRAFT page 17
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
Arkansas Anglers represent Mena at Nationals
Courtesy Photo
Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger represent Mena well! They competed in the High School National Championship on Lake Hartwell in Anderson South Carolina. They ended up placing 15th in the Nation. This was an awesome event and an awesome experience for these young men. Now they will set their sights on their senior year and hopefully win the Arkansas Anglers of the year again and compete in next years National Championship and World Finals. Next year the National Championship and World Final will be held on Lake Pickwick in Florence, Alabama..
LIVE MUSIC
7:00 pm July 9th, 2021 Admission: $7 at Door POTLUCK INCLUDED
Acorn Students attend FCCLA event
Courtesy photo
Congratulations to Acorn High School students, Kenzie Daniels (Job Interview Event), Corryn Holland (Culinary Arts Event), and Colten Quebedeaux (Career Investigation Event) for their performance at FCCLA National Star Events. Each student earned a Silver medal in their event. This past week, Kenzie Daniels (Arkansas FCCLA President), Corryn Holland, and their adviser, Mrs. Mindy Lyle attended FCCLA National Leadership Conference in Nashville, TN. These students attended leadership trainings, networking events, Family Consumer Science demonstrations, and helped lead Arkansas State meetings.
394-1938
Cullyn Corley & Southbound Band HATFIELD AUDITORIUM
Community 15
TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHUAST • SHOCKS & STRUTS
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm
1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
No Alcohol or Tobacco
For more info call
479-234-5526
Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash
16 Sports
THE POLK COUNTY
July 7, 2021
Best of the Bearcats: Mena Student Athletes Excel in Soccer
Soccer Honors
Pulse
Courtesy Photo
Congratulations to Mena Bearcat athletes for their accomplishments in soccer. The following were awarded: Honorable Mention All Conference Jayden Felix and Hudson Vacca; All Conference, Jetzai Hernandez and Isaac Clark (All Star Game nominee). All District- Lauren Sikes and Tabitha Levering; All State- Stephanie Lua ( All Star Nominee)
PUT A FREEZE ON HEATING AND COOLING COSTS
Smart Energy Tip:
Changing air filters monthly can reduce energy and save money.
B I G
The Musical
Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve 515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953
(479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse A Bake Sale Fundraiser for 7-year-old Xavier Benson, son of Angela Foster (Mena), will be held Wednesday, July 7, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., or for the duration of the goods, in front of Chiquitas. Benson is in critical condition at Children’s Egleston Hospital in Atlanta, GA after a drowning accident June 30. 2021 Football/Cheer Registration, July 12 for 5th & 6th grades, July 13 for 3rd & 4th grades, McMillan Park Pool, 5:30-7:30pm. Bring your athlete for some swimming while you register them for the upcoming season! Ouachita Little Theatre has new office hours. Located at 610 Mena Street, Suite B, the office will be open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 2:00-6:00pm. Season tickets, as well as reserved seating for “Big the Musical,” are on sale now. Audiences will be open to full capacity for this show. Masks are recommended for those who are not vaccinated for COVID-19 but are no longer required. Ross Tunnel American Legion Post 249 meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is July 13 at 6pm at 177 Highway 278 East in Wickes. Meetings our open to all veterans and their families For questions call 1-479-216-5664. The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4pm-6pm, located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call 479-437-4018. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8pm Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study For information call 479-243-0297
July 7, 2021
Around Town
Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7pm Monday, at 7pm Thursday, at 7pm Friday, and at 6pm Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at 479-216-7249. 141 Years and Still Growing (Shady) New Hope Baptist Church will be celebrating Sunday, July 11, at 11:00 am. Pastor Danny Minton invites everyone to come to our anniversary. We will be dedicating our Heritage Fellowship Hall to the memory of congregations and pastors since the organizational year of 1880. The Democratic Party of Polk County will hold its monthly meeting, Monday, July 12, at 6:30PM, at Papa’s Mexican Restaurant in Mena. Come early if you plan to eat. All are welcome. Ross Tunnel American Legion Post 249 meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is July 13 at 6pm at 177 Highway 278 East in Wickes. Meetings our open to all veterans and their families For questions call 1-479-216-5664. Fish Fry - Come Out & have dinner & good company, including coleslaw, hushpuppies, fries, tea, water & soda. Mt. Meadow Masonic Lodge #218, 107 E. Johnson Ave, Hatfield, Sat., July 10, 2pm-6pm, or until the food is gone. Cost: Donation to the Scholarship Fund or the Building Fund. With Every $8 donation, receive a ticket for a great door prize! Hatfield First Baptist Church will be hosting a world-class Southern Gospel Music group Wilburn & Wilburn at the church the evening of Sunday, July 11, at 6pm. The group is a dynamic father-son duo with multi-generational ties to southern gospel. They now continue that tradition in the old form and with some
crossover to more contemporary styles. Jonathan Wilburn was lead singer for the preeminent quartet Gold City for 12 years. He was voted Favorite Lead Singer in the industry all 12 of those years. Having a group of that caliber is a treat for Hatfield, and they will be a blessing to all who attend. The concert is free, though we will be receiving a love offering.
Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3pm Sundays, at 5pm. Tuesdays and at 8pm Saturdays at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-216-3786 Free Summer Lunch Program, Janssen Park pavilion, Tuesday’s July 6-Aug 10, 11:30-12:30 or until meals are gone. Drive-thru and pick-up sack lunch, or stay and eat at the pavilion. Sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church Mena. To donate, volunteer, or for more information call 479-234-3419 or 214-212-8012. Thursday Night Thunder 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month, 5 pm-until whenever, weather-permitting. At Solo’s Speed Paint & Marine, Corner of 11th and US Hwy 71. Bring a cooler and a chair. Bring out your classic cars, muscle cars, rat rods, etc. Free Event Bringing the car community back together. (631) 276-2482 for more info. It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews. com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!
Around Town 17 BUSHCRAFT continued from page 14
When you harvest an animal, reward yourself by modifying your shelter. If you’re in BEAR TERRITORY, you’ll need another place to cook your meals until they go into hibernation. I’d recommend a lean-to, improvised smoker, jerky rack, and fire-pit, no closer than 100 yards from your permanent shelter. I’d also blaze a hidden trail to this site, so you can kill some of the smaller scavengers that might be hanging around. Organizational skills and establishing a working routine are some of the most important keys to long-term survival. Haphazard planning won’t work. Regardless of the location, when I’m in the field, it usually takes me three days to harvest a big game animal. If I’m lucky, I’ll kill something the next day after successfully scouting a new area. Sometimes the terrain is perfect, and other times, you have to cut shooting lanes, build funnels and redirect that Buck within archery range. WINNERS THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX. DON’T BE A DREAMER. The time to meditate about that COZY WINTER SHELTER with an inside fireplace and mantle, is when your belly is full, and your strength is renewed, not when you’re struggling to eat. In closing, I’d like to add that I’ve chatted with, interviewed, and befriended several ALONE contestants. Every one of them is a seasoned, outdoor sage, with above average skills and intellect. All of their reasons for TAPPING were HONORABLE. If I was in the same situation, I probably would have conceded too. Sleep and food deprivation has a way of taking its toll, so we should refrain from being judgmental. Those who scoff, I challenge you to spend a month in the woods with the same equipment, and then we’ll talk. If you’re interested in survival and other outdoor topics, I invite you to join our Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. Do you like podcast shows? Then you can find us on the OUACHITA PODCASTS where you’ll also find other interesting, and extremely entertaining shows.
18 Agriculture
Pulse
July 7, 2021
Arkansas Farm Bureau Launches Permitting for Black Vulture Depredation
LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Farm Bureau announced June 30 that it has received a limited statewide depredation permit for black vultures to aid Arkansas livestock producers. The permits, available by application no later than Dec. 31, allow for three “takes” where black vultures are harming livestock. ArFB was granted a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) permit in May of this year that permits the “taking” of 500 black vultures. “For many years, Farm Bureau leadership and our members have recognized the presence and impacts of black vultures on livestock farms across the state,” said John Bailey, Director Commodity & Regulatory Affairs at Arkansas Farm Bureau. “ArFB applied for this permit through USFWS to expedite a solution for Arkansas producers in
THE POLK COUNTY
need.” The Migratory Bird Depredation Permit is a federal permit, and all livestock producers applying for and receiving approval of an ArFB Livestock Protection Depredation Sub-Permit will be required to follow all USFWS Migratory Bird Depredation Permit rules and regulations. This program allows for “taking” of black vultures only. No other protected migratory bird species is authorized to be taken under this program. Arkansas livestock producers interested in attaining a permit should submit an application on ArFB’s website at www.arfb.com/blackvultures. Applications must be fully completed by the livestock producer for consideration. Applications will be reviewed within two business days of receipt.
Invasive Cogongrass Confirmed in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is notifying the public that a new invasive grass species, Cogongrass, has been confirmed in Arkansas for the first time. For several years botanists and land managers have been on the lookout for Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) in southern Arkansas. This aggressive species, native to Southeast Asia, has spread rapidly across the Deep South over the past few decades. Cogongrass is considered one of the worst invasive species in the world, causing both economic and ecological damages that impact forestry, agriculture, rangeland, and natural ecosystems. Charles Bryson, retired U.S. Department of Agriculture Botanist, detected a patch of Cogongrass in Helena-West Helena alongside Highway 49. The Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s (Department) Plant Industries Division and Forestry Division, and the Arkansas Department of Transportation were informed of the finding and met onsite on June 16 to spray the invasive plant population with herbicide. Botanists with the Arkansas Department of Transportation conducted surveys along Highway 49 and other roads in the area and detected no additional
MENA REAL ESTATE
www.MenaRealEstate.com
Cogongrass populations. The agencies are planning to conduct annual surveys along this and other routes coming into southeastern Arkansas from Mississippi. They will also monitor the site and conduct additional herbicide applications as needed over the next few years. Cogongrass has bright green leaves with serrated margins and a distinctive white vein that is slightly off-center from the middle of the leaf. It has no true, above-ground stem and the leaves emerge directly from stout, creeping rhizomes (underground stems). Cogongrass spreads rapidly from these rhizomes to form distinctive and very dense circular patches which expand in size every year and can displace all other species on the ground. It is also one of the few warm season grasses that bloom immediately after coming out of winter dormancy. A fact sheet with more information and photos is available at http://southernforesthealth.net/ plants/cogongrass/cogongrass-biology-and-management-in-the-southeastern-u.s. Any sightings of Cogongrass in Arkansas should be reported to Paul Shell, the Department’s Plant Inspection and Quarantine Program Manager, at paul. shell@agriculture.arkansas.gov or 501225-1598.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 19
July 7, 2021
07.07.21
07.07.21
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 06.30.21
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! My name is Blu and I am ready to be your new cat!. I am a lovely Tortoiseshell looking for my forever home. I am about 2 years old and weigh in at about 8 pounds. I can be selective with new cats but I am a lover when it comes to people. I will come greet you looking for loving and treats. I love to play too. I can play with toys for hours. I am a curious cat who loves to watch people and look out windows. Wouldn't I be a beautiful addition to your home? All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for cats includes a collar, toys, shampoo, and litter box liners. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
20 Classifieds - SERVICES -
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS
RELIGION NOTICES
Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0714 Tree Service, Storm Cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and Lights replaced. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 T0721
Land Management, Tree Service—. RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479) 216-2976. Free estimates T0911
FOR RELIGION SALE
2005 Yamaha V-Star 1100 Custom. 7,700 miles, garaged, one owner, new tires, $3,900. (479) 234-5898 T0714 For Sale; 1990 Isuzu Trooper 2, 4-wheeldrive, 5-speed manual, running condition, $1,000. Call (479) 394-3901. T0707
- YARD SALES -
Huge outside/inside yard sale, rain or shine! Friday the 9th, 8-5, Saturday the 10th, 8-?. 206 Morrow Street in Mena. China cabinet, antique secretary, dining chairs, king-size bed with Jameson mattresses and custom bedding set, living room chairs, lamps, china, pictures, and other household items. Plus several commercial clothing racks. T0707
- EMPLOYMENT -
Now hiring dependable, skilled and unskilled construction workers. Top pay for the area. No phone calls please. Must apply in person. RCI Construction , 504 Dequeen St., Mena, AR 71953 T0714
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OPPORTUNITY ETS Outreach Representative
For qualifications, job description, list of benefits, and application process, go online to EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES at: UARichMountain.edu
EEO/AA/ADA EMPLOYER Qualified women, minorities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0721 F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0721 Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0721
Cossatot River School District
is requesting proposals for construction management for completion of its athletic fields project. Contact: hburk@cossatot.us (870) 385-7101 to request an RFP packet.
Due to the holiday deadline, both the Mena Police Reports and the Polk County Sheriff’s Log will appear in next week’s issue of The Pulse. Visit mypulsenews. com for this week’s reports.
Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System JUNE 25, 2021 TO JULY 2, 2021 Alex Landfair & Dalton Elardo of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born June 28th Carolina Serrano & Juan Carlos Gutierrez of DeQueen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born June 29th Katie Hollan & Levi Poor of Page, Oklahoma are the proud parents of a baby boy born June 28th
479-394-7301
1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
Tiffany & Shane Sibbett of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born June 29th Georgina Chambers & Bill Kevin Jennings of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born June 29th Kaitlan & Tyler Horner of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born June 29th Courtney & Aaron Lawrence of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born June 30th
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
State 21
July 7, 2021
Governor Authorizes 90-Day Deployment Up To 40 National Guard Members to U.S. Southern Border LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has authorized a 90-day deployment of up to 40 members of the Arkansas National Guard to Texas to assist with security at the state’s border with Mexico. “I have authorized this mission in response to an official request from Texas on the urgent matter at our southern border,” Governor Hutchinson said. “My hope is that our 90 days of support will improve the security of our country and reduce the adverse impact of illegal immigration on Arkansas.” The 90-day deployment will be consistent with a training mission for the National Guard.
Blood Supply Hits Emergency Low Levels Donors are still urged to give immediately for local patients LITTLE ROCK, June 29, 2021 - Arkansas Blood Institute’s blood supply remains at a critical level heading into the July 4th holiday weekend. Although donors have responded to the blood emergency declaration, the blood supply has not rebounded as much as needed as hospital usage remains critically high. Last week’s hospital usage was nearly 20% higher than expected levels, based on historic usage patterns. A less-than-robust blood supply represents a more serious concern heading into the July 4th holiday weekend, where car crashes and traumas are likely to increase. The timing of this year’s holiday also means two days of blood collection will be lost, widening the gap between need and available supply.
LOC ATED IN MENA , ARKANSAS
( 4 7 9 ) 3 3 7 - 7 11 5
WWW.HOMEWOODGHC.COM
Due to a nationwide blood shortage, a strained blood supply represents an even more dangerous situation than it did in years past. Recently, an active shooter in Austin shot 14 people, creating an immediate and serious need for blood products. The blood center in that area put out a national call for help, but only 20% of their need was met by other blood centers, who were facing emergency shortages and could spare little to help. “The last year has been an unstable pattern of ups and downs for our blood supply, but none has been so worrying as the barely detectable reaction to the 14-victim shooting in Austin,” said Dr. John Armitage, President and CEO of Arkansas Blood Institute. “Such an anemic reaction is not at all typical and warns of a weakening national resilience to face the next mass casualty event.”
To rebuild the blood supply and be prepared for the holiday weekend, donors are needed immediately. Blood donation takes about an hour and can save up to three lives. Donors can find locations to donate at arkbi. org or by calling 877-340-8777. While COVID-19 vaccination is not required of blood donors, those who have been vaccinated can donate immediately, assuming they are feeling well. Arkansas Blood Institute is the local, non-profit blood supplier, supporting the inventory for patients in more than 40 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances statewide. For more information, visit arkbi.org. *16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.
AT THE GREEN HOUSE COTTAGES OF HOMEWOOD, WE HELP PATIENTS GET BACK TO THEIR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES THROUGH AN ARRAY OF INNOVATIVE OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION SERVICES PROVIDED BY OUR OCCUPATIONAL, PHYSICAL, AND SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPISTS.
22 Community
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
Governor Hutchinson's Weekly Address
The Commitment and Sacrifice of Service Last week, we lost another police officer in the line of duty, and if we could pass a law to guarantee we will never lose another one, then I would pass it and sign it today. But we know that is not realistic. The roster of police officers who have died in the line of duty is too long. More than 300 Arkansas police officers have been killed on the job. In the seven years since I took office, fifteen officers have died in the line of duty. Most recently, Pea Ridge Officer Kevin Apple, the officer whose memorial service I attended on Friday, was run over and killed while attempting an arrest. Public Safety Secretary Jami Cook points out that seventy percent of our officers who have died in the line of duty since 2015 were killed by assault.
An assault on a police officer is an attack on the rule of law that is essential to civil society. In the past year, the rule of law has been threatened unlike any time since the 1960s. A loud minority has clamored for a reduction in the number – and sometimes the outright elimination – of police. Anyone who has ever been the victim of a violent crime or needed quick assistance after a car wreck knows that’s a bad idea. In my career as a United States attorney, as a congressman, at DEA and Homeland Security, and now as Governor, I have seen crime and law enforcement up close at all levels. There has never been a time in my career when the work of law enforcement has been more difficult, challenging, and dangerous, but yes, very important. The death of Officer Apple illustrates the dangers police face every time they suit up. In spite of the increasing danger of the work, people still choose to become a police officer, and we are all very grateful. We understand that for police, there
See GOVERNOR page 23
July is
Sarcoma/Bone Cancer Awareness Month
Photos by Trey Youngdahl
Schedule A Checkup With Your Doctor Today!
Free Wigs, Breast Prosthesis, and Other Outreach Services Available: Gas Cards Utility Bills Lodging Volunteer Transportation Support Suppo Groups
MAG host Small Works Above, this piece by Jason Sacran titled “Catching Up” won both first place in the Mena Art Gallery Small Works show, and an Arkansas Artist award.
Room of Hope
OUR PURPOSE: To inspire, encourage, and restore hope for persons affected by cancer and hair loss disorders. Clarice's Room of Hope is a local Non-Profit 501(c)3 Organization. All donations are tax deductible.
PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING, SO THAT WE MAY CONTINUE TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY
Below, works in the Mena Art Gallery Small Works show were on display from May 5 through June 26.
Community 23 ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: The Social GOVERNOR
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
Security Administration Will Not Call You LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is warning Arkansans of the increased number of scam artists calling and claiming their Social Security numbers have been stolen or compromised. These scams normally start with the scammers calling and stating they work for the Social Security Administration. They will then claim a Social Security number has been canceled due to fraud or misuse. In response, Arkansans will often verify their information over the phone, but once the number is shared, the scam artist steals the victim’s identity and uses it for their own monetary gain. “I have heard from Arkansans across the state who tell me the same heart-breaking story of losing their life savings after sharing their personal information,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Con artists will do anything to steal someone else’s hardearned money.” Attorney General Rutledge and the Federal Trade Commission released the following tips for Arkansans who may be dealing with a government impostor: Never give out or confirm sensitive information,
$ $
$
such as bank account, credit card or social security numbers, to an unsolicited caller. Be cautious of callers using organization names similar to existing agencies. Scammers use Internet technology to spoof area codes, so although it may seem the call is from Washington, D.C., it could originate from anywhere in the world. The Social Security Administration and other government agencies have warned about these scams and suggest contacting the agency directly. The Social Security Administration can be contacted at (800) 772-1213 to verify the reason for the contact and the person’s identity prior to providing any information to the caller. To report this scam to the Social Security Administration, contact its Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271, or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. For more information about consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.
is no such thing as a routine encounter. Every traffic stop, every knock on the door of a house, requires a commitment to serve. Officer Apple had been in law enforcement for more than twenty years, and he understood the risks. He put his service daily above his own safety. I hope that every police officer understands that the people of Arkansas value and are grateful for the work of our men and women in blue. Secretary Cook, who was a member of my Task Force to Improve Law Enforcement, is a former police officer who believes that cities, counties, and the state should provide the best for their police officers. She says that we expect much out of officers, so we must provide them with all they need to do everything that we expect. I certainly agree with that assessment. We are all saddened by the loss of another Arkansas police officer. Arkansans value the rule of law as well as the law enforcement officers who preserve it, and I echo Secretary Cook’s encouragement to every jurisdiction to supply officers the training and tools they need, and to find a way to pay them well for their service. And in addition, when you see an officer, thank him or her for their service.
CHIQUITAʼS $5 FOOD SERVICE FOR $3
BAYWASH CAR WASH $10 CARWASH FOR $5
WENDYʼS LARGE BREAKFAST BACONATOR COMBO FOR $5
THE SHOP $45 UNLIMITED $ TANNING FOR $25
AND A VARIETY OF BRANSON TICKETS
continued from page 22
Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC
1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953
479-394-4200 hollyspringsrealestate.com
Keith Aleshire Principal Broker
479-243-5341 kaleshire@aol.com
4178-Beautiful 1686 sq ft home ready for you to love! The Owner has had a new roof, foundation renovation & electrical work completed this month. Other recent additions-- windows in the sunroom, new paint, new Heating&Air, Walk-in Storm cellar and new carport. The Living room, pretty kitchen, a bonus room & large laundry offer extra space in the home. Spacious Bedroom suite w/walk-in closet & bathroom. Guest room. Guest bath has tub & shower. Nice level corner lot w/concrete drive, fruit trees & seasonal bushes. $155,000
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 7, 2021
In The Business of YOU. At First Financial, we offer a range of banking products to improve the lives of our customers. Whether you need a long-term saving strategy or simply want to open a checking or savings account, we take the time to develop a relationship with you – understanding your financial goals and helping you meet them. Your success is our business, which is why… at First Financial Bank, we’re in the business of YOU.
Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
600 HWY 71 S | Mena, AR | 479-394-3552
www.ffb1.com