Polk County Pulse June 30, 2021

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

June 30, 2021

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BIG at OLT

PRIDE in the Park

UARM Milestone

Page 12

Photo by Randall Lee Page 17

Last week the University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain launched Arkansas’ first public regional trucking academy, ArkTA (Arkansas Trucking Academy).

Trucking academy drives opportunity Submitted by UARM

Lion’s Club

Page 3

Two educational systems came together today on the campus of ASU Three Rivers to unveil Arkansas’ rst and only public trucking academy.

The Arkansas Trucking Academy

(ArkTA) is a consortium of ASU Three Rivers, UA Cossatot, UA Rich Mountain, and UA Hope/Texarkana.

Speaking at today’s launch was Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, “This is another pace-setting work-

See UARM page 2

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6 arrested for narcotics trafficking On Friday, June 25 the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office, 18th Judicial West Drug Task Force, and the Grannis Police executed search warrants at three separate residences in Wickes. The warrants were obtained following a monthslong investigation into narcotic trafficking.

Arrested during the raids were: Bobby E. Hedrick age 50 of Wickes. He Bobby E. was charged with PosHedrick session of Methamphetamine with the Purpose to deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Maintaining a Drug Premises.

Steven O. Hedrick age 54 of Wickes. He was charged with Steven O. Possession of MethHedrick amphetamine with the Purpose to deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Maintaining a Drug Premises.

See ARREST page 2 BBB RATING: A+ As of 06/01/21 ●FINANCING ●INSURANCE CLAIMS ●CASH

2 News

THE POLK COUNTY

June 30, 2021

UARM continued from page 1 force solution that has grown out of conversations between leaders in industry and education. Arkansas’s businesses had a problem, our educators stepped in to fill it, and we are able to support it with an Arkansas Regional Workforce grant. It’s a model for partnerships between the private sector and government. Because of that, we soon will be putting more trucks on the road with first-rate drivers at the wheel.”

New classes will begin on the campuses located in Nashville, Mena, Malvern, and Hope. Through the use of virtual/simulation instruction, traditional classroom, and practical over-the-road instruction, students will receive 160 contact hours of non-credit training per course. Successful completion of the course will prepare students to test for their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). A total of 20 courses will be offered annually, five courses per college.

Slots are limited to four students per course. The maximum cost per student is $1,300, saving students thousands compared to the cost of a private acad-

ARREST

emy.

With the increased demand in the trucking industry, ArkTA co-chair and UA Rich Mountain Chancellor Phillip Wilson said that he is grateful for the partnership across two systems to bring this program into fruition. “Creating opportunities and growing Arkansas’ workforce is always a top priority in Arkansas community colleges,” added Wilson, who also serves as chair of the Arkansas Community Colleges association.

Shannon Newton, President of the Arkansas Trucking Association, expressed her strong support of ArkTA and emphasized the challenges that the trucking industry in Arkansas is facing right now, “For contextual awareness. in Arkansas the trucking industry supports one in ten jobs in the private sector in Arkansas. We rank number one in the country per capita employed in the trucking industry. So certainly as an advocate of the industry, it is my job to help people understand the role trucking plays in your everyday

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continued from page 1

Photo by Randall Lee Governor Asa Hutchinson speaks at the launch of the state’s first public regional trucking academy, ArkTA (Arkansas Trucking Academy) at the University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain last week. life but also help solve the challenges the industry is facing and the driver shortage is actually the number one challenge in the trucking industry right now.” Newton shared that the average annual income for an Arkansas trucker is $45,000 and that with the launch of ArkTA, it will help lower some of the barriers that people face as they consider the trucking industry.

The first course will begin August 2.

For more information or to apply, visit ArkTruckingAcademy.com.

The

POLK COUNTY PULSE

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Lea M. Fox age 41 of Wickes. She was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Shealeena R. Phillips age 36 of Wickes.

She was charged with Possession of MethLea M. Fox amphetamines and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Ronda R. Whisenhunt age 53 of Wickes. She was charged with Maintaining a Drug Premises and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Justin P. Dement Shealeena R. age 30 of Gillham.

Phillips He was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said the arrest are the result of a lot of hard work.

“I hope it sends a message that we will aggressively pursue Ronda R. and prosecute drug Whisenhunt dealers in our community,”he said. * A photo of Dement was not available as a result of not booked into the jail, according to the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office **All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Community 3

June 30, 2021

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Roaring Good Time

Photo by Trey Youngdahl

Incoming Mena Lions Club president Seth Smith, from left, guest speaker Senator John Boozman, and outgoing club president Fred Ogden garnered a full house Monday at the club meeting.

Boozman speaks at Lions Ogden passes gavel to Smith

By Jeri Pearson

The Mena Lion’s Club hosted a packed den Monday to welcome guest speaker Senator John Boozman and to usher in the new club year, as Fred Ogden passed the president’s position to Seth Smith.

Boozman, a fifth-generation Arkansan, was raised in Fort Smith and graduated from Northside High School. He went on to play football for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks while completing his pre-optometry requirements. He graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in 1977 and entered private practice that same year co-founding a family business with his brother that would ultimately become a major provider of eye care to Northwest Arkansas.

Lions suggested making Boozman an honorary member of the club, as a result of his passion for optometry matching the Lion’s mission to provide solutions to eye disease.

Decades of experience as a successful healthcare provider and a small business

owner guide John’s approach to governing.

He is committed to advocating for economic policies that help Arkansas’s small businesses continue to grow and add jobs to our state’s economy. And since agriculture accounts for nearly one-quarter of Arkansas’s economic activity, John has been a consistent champion for our state’s farmers, ranchers and loggers and was instrumental in the fight for an equitable farm bill.

This Congress he serves as the Ranking Member of the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. This position enables him to play a key role in influencing policy that relates to the agriculture economy, nutrition programs and quality of life in rural America.

He also continues to serve on the Committee on Appropriations, which is responsible for allocating federal funds, the Committee on the Environment and Public Works, where much of the nation’s infrastructure policy is developed and the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs where he has been a leader in advocating on behalf of those who served in uniform.

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.

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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

Accident claims life of Wickes man WICKES - A two-vehicle accident claimed the life of a Wickes man in Polk County last Tuesday afternoon, according to the Arkansas State Police.

According to the agency's fatal crash report, 44-year-old Anthony J. Cole of Wickes was southbound on U.S. Highway 71 yesterday when his 2002 Chevy S-10 crossed the centerline and struck a 2019 Freightliner semi-truck, according to the investigating state trooper. The head-on accident occurred around 2 p.m. Tuesday afternoon.

The S-10 carrying Cole came to a final rest on the west side of the highway facing east. Cole was pronounced dead at the scene by Polk County Coroner Brian Bowser.

The driver of the semi-truck, who was not identified in the report, was not injured.

Investigating state trooper Seth Smedley reported road conditions as clear and dry at the time of the accident.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Arkansas Delegation Calls on EPA to Maintain Navigable Waters Protection June 30, 2021

WASHINGTON – Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Rick Crawford (R-AR), French Hill (RAR), and Steve Womack (R-AR), along with Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and John Boozman (R-AR) sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Regan and Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Pinkham condemning the decision by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to repeal and replace the 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR).

“Under the Trump Administration’s NWPR, states, localities, tribes, and private landowners maintained sovereignty over their waterways. Businesses, farmers, and foresters were empowered to conduct business without harmful regulation preventing the proper growth of Arkansas’ economy,” said Congressman Westerman. “States have a vested interest in the environmental protection of their waterways and are fully capable of maintaining environmental standards without unnecessary and overbearing Federal oversight.”

In part, the members wrote, “The NWPR preserves our waterways while giving producers and landowners the clarity they need to farm and build without

burdensome regulations and government overreach.”

“Arkansans are good stewards of the land and should make their own decisions about their own property— as they have for generations—without the EPA looking over their shoulders,” the members continued.

On June 9, 2021, EPA and the Corps announced their intent to initiate a regulatory rule-making to roll back the Trump administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR). On April 21, 2020, EPA and USACE finalized the NWPR, which defined the federal government’s Clean Water Act (CWA) permitting jurisdiction by streamlining what waters are considered “waters of the United States.”

The Navigable Waters Protection Rule replaced the 2015 Obama Administration’s Water of the United States (WOTUS) Rule and sought to more narrowly define the term “water of the United States” after two Supreme Court rulings interpreted the scope of the Clean Water Act more narrowly than previous EPA and Corps regulation and guidance under the WOTUS rule. In 2016, Congress voted to nullify the Obama Administration’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule, later vetoed by President Obama.

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Faith 5

June 30, 2021

From the

State House of Representatives

The cost of caring for There are currently 58,000 Arkansans who have been dithose with Alzheimer’s and agnosed with Alzheimer’s. It is other dementias is estimatestimated that 67,000 will be died to total $355 billion in agnosed by 2025.

2021.

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain In the most recent legAwareness Month, an opporislative session, the Gentunity to hold a conversation eral Assembly addressed about the brain, and share the John Maddox this health issue when it fact that Alzheimer’s disease passed Act 391. and other dementias are a major pubAct 391 creates the Alzheimer’s lic health issue.

Disease and Dementia Advisory In 2019, there were 1,507 deaths Council. The council will examine from Alzheimer’s in Arkansas. That’s the needs of individuals living with a 250% increase since the year 2000. It Alzheimer's disease or other demenis now the 6th leading cause of death tias, services available in the state for in the state. patients and their family caregivers, Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, a general term and the ability of healthcare providers for memory loss and other cognitive and facilities to meet the current and abilities severe enough to interfere future needs. The council will make with daily life. Alzheimer's disease ac- findings and recommendations in an counts for 60-80% of dementia cases. annual report known as the State AlzAlzheimer's is not a normal part of heimer’s Plan.

Growing evidence indicates that aging. The greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and the majority of people can reduce their risk of cognipeople with Alzheimer's are 65 and tive decline by adopting key lifestyle older. Alzheimer’s disease is consid- habits. When possible, combine these ered to be younger-onset Alzheimer’s habits to achieve maximum benefit for the brain and body. We’ve providif it affects a person under 65.

More than 6 million Americans are ed links to more information on our now living with Alzheimer’s. website at www.arkansashouse.org.

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

As the Arkansas tourism inmost $10 billion in the dustry recovers from the ecoArkansas economy. It nomic impacts of the pandemsupports 96,000 jobs ic, the governor announced the and generates $698 milcreation of a new Office of Outlion a year in local and door Recreation. state tax revenue.

It will be in the state DepartThe tourism and hosment of Parks, Heritage and pitality industry was Tourism, and over the summer Larry Teague especially hard hit by the department will hire a directhe pandemic, because of tor for the office to coordinate public health restrictions that limand promote stewardship of the out- ited seating at restaurants and prodoors in Arkansas. hibited public gatherings like music A 10-member advisory board will concerts. That’s why last year the oversee the office. Members include state awarded $48 million in grants private sector representatives. For specifically to hospitality businessexample, the first four members rep- es that were negatively affected by resent a resort on Lake Ouachita, an health restrictions. outfitter on the Buffalo River, a boat They were call Business Intermanufacturer in Monticello and ruption Grants and they went to a duck hunting lodge in Arkansas more than 2,100 business. They County. were awarded by the Department Traditionally, the Arkansas tour- of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, the ism industry has relied heavily on Arkansas Economic Commission outdoor recreational activities such and the Department of Finance and as camping, boating, hiking, hunting Administration. and fishing. That led to the designaNews of the Office of Outdoor tion of the state motto as the “NatuRecreation coincided with the anral State.” nouncement that the state had acIn recent years the state’s marketquired Blue Mountain, a 459-acre ing efforts have promoted alternative parcel in central Arkansas.

Also, the activities and destinations, in order state signed an agreement with the to expand and diversify the indusU.S. Forest Service to allow more try’s appeal. Marketing campaigns amenities for visitors at the Lake Sylhave targeted birdwatchers, motorvia Recreation Area, also in central cycle clubs and Civil War enthusiArkansas. asts.

Blue Mountain is near Pinnacle Other campaigns promote music Mountain, already within a state festivals for fans of blues and bluepark.

Rattlesnake Ridge was desiggrass. Others have been aimed at nated as a natural area in 2018 and in connoisseurs of art and fine dining, spite of its name is seeing an increase to make tourists aware of the art galin visitors. leries and restaurants in Arkansas.

The Arkansas Natural Heritage Recent marketing campaigns also focus on specific destinations such Commission and The Nature Conas race tracks, casinos, water parks servancy bought Blue Mountain for and the presidential library in Little about $5 million from a timber company.

Rock.

The Nature Conservancy raised Therefore, creating a new Office of Outdoor Recreation is “getting back about $1 million of the purchase to the basics” in Arkansas tourism price and has plans to raise an additional $1 million for building trails promotion.

According to the governor’s office, and a parking lot, and to help with outdoor recreation accounts for al- maintenance.

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

June 30, 2021

Lowell Boyd Thomas

Lowell Boyd Thomas, age 78, of Mena, Arkansas, died Saturday, June 19, 2021, at CHI Saint Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on Friday, September 25, 1942, to Boyd Hilbern and Lela Mae McCracken Thomas in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Lowell was a man of great faith and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mena. He was proprietor of Thomas Tax Services for 25 years. Lowell had many hobbies that included photography, traveling, and operating ham radios.

He loved listening to blues music and enjoyed nature and lighthouses. He was a member of the Mena Art Gallery. Lowell was proud to have served as the President of AR Society of Enrolled Agents but if you asked Lowell, his greatest accomplishment wasn’t his photography or his career. It was being a father. Lowell was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Lowell is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marilyn Jolean Thomas of Mena; two sons, Lowell Thomas Jr. of Garland, Texas, and Joel Thomas of Sulphur Springs, Texas; two stepdaughters, Ralean Ijams of Kona, Hawaii, and Joelle Gatlin of Houston, Texas; one brother, Larry Thomas; one sister, Debbie Cockrell of Memphis, Tennessee; six grandchildren, Autumn Thomas of Garland, Texas, Joseph Ijams of San Diego, California, Jonathan Gatlin of Houston, Texas, Rebecca Gatlin of Houston, Texas, Amber Noble of Melissa,

Texas, and Bryce Jenkins of Sulphur Springs, Texas; three great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 25, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Floyd Folsom officiating. Interment will follow at the Cherry Hill Cemetery in Cherry Hill, Arkansas, under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Howard Barr, Jim Aleshire, Derick Maechler, Randall Whorton, Mark Frederick, Lary Lamia, Dale Embry, Keith Cockrell, and Jim Harakal.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Polk County Library at 410 8th Street, Mena, Arkansas, 71953, or the Mena Art Gallery at 607 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas, 71953.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com.

Edward “Dale” Putman

Mr. Edward “Dale” Putman, age 64, of Cove, Arkansas passed away Monday, June 21, 2021, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Dale was born in Chowchilla, California to the late Earl Edward Putman and the late Thelma Marie Huddleston Putman. Mr. Putman was an avid sports fan including softball but was most of all a baseball fan during high school played catcher and was even once recruited to play after high school but chose to be a father instead. Dale was a truck driver by profession.

He is survived by his daughters, Stacy Jones, Jill Atchley, Jamie Putman, and Vivian Johnson; grandchildren, Michale Jones, Thomas Jones, Kesha Stapp, Kyle Jones, Koree Parker, Laykin Atchley, Dani Atchley, Megan Thompson, and Adrian Gulley; Ten great grandchildren; brother, Doug Putman; Nieces and nephews, Amanda Sciacca, and Zachary Putman.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents and by his infant daughter, Michale Putman.

Mr. Putman was sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com.

Pauline Morrow

Pauline Morrow, age 98, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, June 25, 2021, in Waldron, Arkansas.

Pauline was born on October 20, 1922, in Hatfield, Arkansas, to Roy Stockton and May Rose Stockton. She was known throughout her life for being very active in many civic, educational and community organizations and projects. She was recognized as being an astute and dependable businesswoman, leader, teacher, encourager and friend. Above all else she valued her relationship with her Lord and Savior and her family. Pauline served as a Bible teacher to young and old for over 50+ years at First Baptist Church Mena. Other areas of service were Board of Directors Union Bank of Mena 30+ years, Board of Trustees Ouachita Baptist University 18 years, Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center 28+ years, Polk County Library Board, P.E.O. President and officer 55+ years.

She was survived by her daughters, Delbra Hasley and husband Doug, Jr. of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Marsha Costner and husband Bob of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; step-son, Virgil Morrow and wife Shirley of Greenwood, Arkansas; grandchildren, Douglas Hasley, III of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, Dawn Conine of Little Rock, Arkansas, Matthew Costner of Fayetteville, Arkansas and Marcus Costner of Fayetteville, Arkansas; sixteen great grandchildren; sisters, Louise Waters of Mena, Arkansas, Juanita Cogburn of Mena, Arkansas; special friend and longtime Caregiver Connie Bass of Mena, Arkansas; a host of other family and friends.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and May Stockton husband, Landers Morrow; son, Robert Morrow; sisters Irene Pigg and Lorene Watson.

Funeral service will Tuesday, June 29, 2021, at First Baptist Church in Mena at 2:00 p.m. with Brother Russell Threet officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park. Family and friend’s visitation prior to service Tuesday June 29,2021, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at First

Pulse

Baptist Church under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Pallbearers will be Douglas Hasley, III, Mark Conine, Matthew Costner, Marcus Costner, Bennett Hasley, Samuel Conine, and Nathan Costner.

Memorials may be made to the Ouachita Baptist University Scholarship Fund at First Baptist Church of Mena.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

David Jerome Kern

David Jerome Kern, age 63, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Thursday, June 24, 2021, in CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on Sunday, August 25, 1957, to LT Richard Arthur Kern and Pauline Louise Pennington Kern at the U.S. Army Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

David was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Mena, and he sang in the Sanctuary Choir.

He loved his family and was a lifelong Chicago Cub baseball fan. He enjoyed making and recording music, including singing, playing the guitar and trumpet.

David had an associate degree in Computer Science and enjoyed working on computers. Additionally, he had an associate degree in ­­ Criminal Justice from ICC in E. Peoria, Illinois. Between his schooling, he worked for Pizza Hut as a Night Manager, then he worked many years as a Security Officer for Pair of Dice Hotel and Casino in E. Peoria, Illinois.

David was a loving husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and uncle and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his mother.

David is survived by his wife, Joyce Kern of Mena; his father, Richard Kern of Mena; one son and daughter in law, Jeffery and Sarah Kern of Houston, Texas; one grandchild, Alice Kern of Houston, Texas; his brother and sister in law, Daniel and Becky Kern of Pfafftown, North Carolina; nephew, Mark Kern and his wife Tiffany Kern and their son, Chandler Kern; niece, Jessica Tumulity and her husband Zac Tumulity and their two sons, Liam and Jax all of Pekin, Illinois; his mother in law, Lois Thompson of Mountain Grove, Missouri; and a host

THE POLK COUNTY

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Obituaries 7

June 30, 2021

of other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 3, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. at the First United Methodist Church in Mena with Reverend Dr. Scott Stewart officiating. Cremation services are entrusted to the Bowser Funeral Home in Mena.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Anthony John Cole

Anthony John Cole, age 44, of Wickes, Arkansas, died Tuesday, June 22, 2021. He was born on Sunday, May 29, 1977, to Stoney Kevin Cole and Sherry Ann Craig Jewell in Mena, Arkansas.

Anthony loved God and his family. He was a welder for several years and also did impressive tattoo work. Anthony enjoyed fishing and playing his guitar in his free time. He and his wife loved their adventures at the river where they always hunted for heart-shaped rocks. Anthony enjoyed riding motorcycles and was a talented sketch artist. He was very proud of his children and cherished every moment spent with them. Anthony was a loving husband, father, son, brother, grandson, grandfather, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

Anthony is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ralph & Birdie Cole, maternal grandfathers, James Craig and Mack McNully, and cousin, Garreth Stricklin.

Anthony is survived by his adoring wife, Jennifer Cole of Wickes; his father and step-mother, Stoney and Wanda Cole of De Queen; his mother and step-father, Sherry and Mike Jewell of De Queen; maternal grandmother, Deanna McNully of De Queen; two sons, Trenton Cole of Sweet Home, Oregon, and Tommy Bufkin of Greenwood; three daughters, Mistie Rowe of Sweet Home, Oregon, Megan Cole of Sweet Home, Oregon, and Scarlett Bufkin of Greenwood, Arkansas; three brothers, Kevin Cole of Texarkana, Bret Torres of Nashville, and Jonathan Torres of Fort Smith; two sisters, Melissa Patrick of De Queen, and Kerri Cole of Wickes; two grandchildren, Mathew and Zella Pitts

of Sweet Home, Oregon; uncles, Trent Craig of De Queen, and Jamie Craig of Grannis; and one aunt, Donna Stricklin of Hot Springs; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 12:00 p.m., at the Pentecostal Church of God in Wickes, Arkansas, with Brother Eddie Schlinker and Brother Tim Rose officiating.

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

Pallbearers will be Jeremy Craig, Justin Craig, Ted Sanders, Eric Hoyle, Ernest Decasez, Glen Johnson, Cecil Thomas, and Leroy Reid.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Gerald “Jerry” Dewaine Barker

Gerald “Jerry” Dewaine Barker, age 70, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Sunday, June 20, 2021, at the Mena Regional Health System in Mena, Arkansas. He was born on Tuesday, April 3, 1951, to Paul Herbert and Donis Ellen Clary Barker in Westmoreland, Kansas.

Jerry was a compassionate man whose laughter and humor will be missed by all who heard it. He loved life and had a sense of humor that could brighten anyone’s day. Jerry was proud to graduate college and went on to be an MRI Technician.

He was known affectionately as “Uncle Jerry” by the kids that he worked with.

Jerry liked to read mystery novels and listen to the Grateful Dead. He loved his chihuahua, Poco, whom he was rarely ever without. Jerry was a member of the Polk County Democrat Party, Humane Society, and Sociable Seniors. He was also a member and talented voice actor of the Ouachita Little Theater. Family always took precedence in his life. His proudest moment was falling in love with his beloved wife, Imelda. They spent 20 wonderfully happy years together. Jerry was a loving husband, son, stepfather, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Paul Herbert Barker; two brothers, J.R.

Barker, and Don Barker; and two aunts, Connie Clary Hutchinson and Shirley Barker Looney.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Imelda Barker of Mena; his mother, Donis Ellen Barker of Banning, California; two stepsons and step daughter in law, Michael Aswell of Houston, Texas, and Bryan and Laura Aswell of Houston, Texas; one brother and sister in law, Gregory and Marilyn Barker of Beaumont, California; aunt and uncle, Pat and Cecil Vining of Richmond, Kansas, and uncle, Darrell Hutchinson of Georgetown, Texas; six step grandchildren; five step great grandchildren; numerous nephews, nieces and cousins and many really good friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 25, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with brother Don Martin officiating. A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 24, 2021, from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of the Ouachita’s at 366 Polk Rd 50, Mena, AR 71953 or CASA of the Ouachita Region at 812B Dequeen St, Mena, AR 71953.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Shirley Jean Wille

Shirley Jean Wille, age 87, of Norman, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, June 26, 2021, in Norman, Arkansas.

She was born February 11, 1934, in Washington, Missouri, to the late Harold and Irene Samson. She was united in marriage to the late Kenneth Wille May 5, 1951.

She was a loving and kind wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to all. She was a bus driver for the Caddo Hills School District for many years, Teachers aid, homemaker, farmer, and was very active in her church community. She enjoyed crocheting,

quilting, and gardening. She will be dearly missed by all those that knew her.

She is survived by sons, Harold Wille and wife, Sue of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, and David Wille, of Norman, Arkansas; daughters, Kennetha Napier and husband John, of Norman, Arkansas, Rosanna Youngblood and husband Charles, of Ink, Arkansas; six grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; brother, Harold Samson of Hays, Kansas; and sister Sherry Dobbins and husband Dan Dobbins of Lyons, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Irene Samson of Lyons Kansas; husband, Kenneth Wille; a son, Keith Jerome Wille; grandson, Kristopher Youngblood.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 30th, 2021, at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Father Joseph Shantiraj as Celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Rosary and visitation will be Tuesday, June 29th, 2021, from 6-8pm at Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Johnny Morris Treece

Mr. Johnny Morris Treece, age 65, of Cove, passed away Monday, June 14, 2021, at his home in Cove surrounded by his loved ones.

Johnny was born January 27,1956 in Dallas, Texas, to the late Johnny Treece and the late Joy Faye Hughes Treece. He enjoyed racing cars and boxing. He was a fabricator/welder by profession. Johnny was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He will be dearly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ricky Treece and Cecil Treece. Johnny is survived by his wife, Sharon Treece of Cove, Arkansas; son, Chris Treece and wife Destinee of Cove, Arkansas; grandchild, Natalee Treece; brother, Ronnie Treece; and sister, LeAnna Treece.

Cremation services are entrusted to the Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

8 Faith

THE POLK COUNTY

June 30, 2021

An Arkie’s Faith: A Giggle of Girls

By Richie Lawry Happy chatter and laughter filled the air as the car traveled along the highway from Mountain Pine to Hot Springs. Excited voices competed to be heard over each other, ending in a crescendo of boisterous giggles. Finally, the decibel level of the chatter settled down to a level lower than a jet plane taking off, but the giggles continued.

The Hyundai Sonata making its way down the mountain was filled with girls. My granddaughter had spent two weeks at Summer Camp on the shores of Lake Ouachita, and my wife had just picked her up. Two more granddaughters and their cousin were along for the ride – and the promise of a shopping trip. After two weeks of being apart, the girls were happy to be back together.

There were so many stories to tell, so much catching up to do, and so much giggling.

After spending the afternoon shopping in Hot Springs and eating at La Hacienda, they headed home. The girls were still excited and exuberant, and they filled the car with laughter. Sometimes they would simply look at each other and burst into spontaneous giggles. Finally, when my wife got home, she told me, “You may have heard of a murder of crows or a congress of baboons, but this is a giggle of girls. I immediately loved the phrase and started referring to them as a giggle of girls.

We spent the weekend with family members from Texas, Louisiana, and Missouri. Seven girls, ages eight to fifteen, spent the afternoon together, eating, swimming, playing, talking, and giggling. It indeed was a giggle of girls.

I have often wondered why we have such unusual names for groups of things. We frequently use terms that seem natural, like a flock of chickens, a school of fish, a pride of lions, or a herd of cows. But there are hundreds of

obscure names that we never use in everyday conversation. Names such as a parliament of owls, a rhumba of rattlesnakes, a surfeit of skunks, or a charm of hummingbirds. Why does English have these unusual naming conventions? How did we get these names?

My first thought was that there must be a scientific basis, or at least the names were given by people studying sciences like biology and zoology. But when I researched the names, I found that they are essentially linguistic leftovers from the Middle Ages. These terms of venery, or nouns of the collection as they are also known, were first introduced by 15th-century English gentlemen.

When these noblemen went hunting, they would devise names for animal groups based on their poetic interpretation of nature. Some of these terms were clever, a charm of hummingbirds, some were obvious, a paddling of ducks, and others were just pretentious, an ostentation of peacocks.

Names for groups of animals were first recorded in books for nobility.

These books instructed men on the various aspects of noble life, especially hunting. These books were designed as manuals for young aristocrats, advising them on social graces and activities. A young nobleman needed to know the proper way to refer to groups of animals so that he wouldn’t be embarrassed while he was hunting with others. The Book of Saint Albans, published in 1486, is credited with the first appearance of terms of venery. I am pretty sure that the term “giggle of girls” was not included.

From the time that my granddaughters were born, they loved to giggle. I fell in love with those giggles, and so would you if you heard them. When we giggle together, it is part of the loving bonds we make with each other.

We only giggle and laugh with people when we are comfortable. There may

be nervous laughter between people who are at odds with each other. But giggling shows that you are very comfortable and at ease. Giggling is an expression of pure joy.

God wants us to experience joy. In Galatians 5:22, Paul tells us that joy is a fruit of the Spirit. I love the way that King David expressed himself in Psalms 16:11 (NET). “You lead me in the path of life. I experience absolute joy in your presence; you always give me sheer delight.” David’s expression of sheer delight in living in the presence of God makes me smile. I can almost hear a giggle on David’s lips.

Do you remember Eeyore and Tigger in the Winnie-the Pooh books and movies? For Eeyore, no matter what exceptional circumstance came his way, doom and gloom remained the focus. While Tigger, bouncing through life without a care in the world, never perceived anything to go wrong. In our daily lives, it is easy to have the attitude of Eeyore. But Biblical joy is not simply overcoming our inner Eeyore, nor is it bouncing through life in ignorant bliss.

We can find joy in facing each day’s ups and downs, knowing that Jesus is on our side. “Be joyful because you have

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hope. Be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times.” Roman 12:12 (ICB) When Jesus was talking to his disciples shortly before his death, He said, “I have told you these things so that you can have the same joy I have.

I want your joy to be the fullest joy.”

John 15:11 (ICB) Jesus says the same thing to you and me. He wants us to be happy. He wants us to experience joy in our lives. In his final conversation with his disciples, Jesus told them, “You are sad now. I will see you again and then your hearts will be full of joy. No one can take your joy from you.” John 16:22 (NLV) Gentle Reader, God wants his children to experience joy and happiness.

Just like a father wants his child to giggle, God longs for us to experience a deep-seated, profoundly rooted joy. Joy is not just a nice add-on to the Christian life. It is not the bow on top of the package; it is the package. “God will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.” Job 8:21 (NCV) Take time today to laugh, giggle, and experience the joy and delight of believing in God.

I went to the grocery store today to buy some grapes and apples, but they didn’t have any. It was a fruitless trip.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South

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June 30, 2021

History 9

Reflections from History and Faith: "Our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

By Jeff Olson

In the words of John Adams, “the 2nd day of July will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever.” This was the day that the Second Continental Congress declared its freedom from Great Britain when it voted to approve a resolution submitted by Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee: that “these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.

The Declaration of Independence, in the words of John Quincy Adams, “first organized the social compact on the foundation of the Redeemer’s mission upon earth. It laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity. From the day of the declaration, the American people were bound by the laws of God, which they all, and by the laws of The Gospel, which they nearly all, acknowledge as the rules of their conduct... Why is it that, next to the birthday of the Savior of the world, your most joyous and venerated festival returns on this day, July 4th.” This day of course was the day that delegates to the Continental Congress approved and officially adopted the Declaration of Independence document.

Each year we do commemorate and celebrate this special day in various ways: cookouts, campouts, picnics, fireworks and pool parties - just to name some. How often is it though that we

give much or any thought to what became of those fifty-six men who came together and pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor for the cause of freedom? These men were not revolutionaries in the typical sense of the word. Many of them had seminary degrees and were leaders in their communities and local churches, so they understood the importance and place of biblical precepts, law and custom in the civil social order. They also knew English Common Law and their chartered rights as Englishmen and it was within the legal boundaries of these that they continually submitted their petitions for redresses of the King's oppression for over a decade. And, with the British Parliament's Prohibitory Act of December 22, 1775 which officially removed the thirteen American colonies from the King's protection and severed Britain's ties with the colonies, the need for a Declaration of Independence to King George III and “to a candid world” became more clear and necessary with all other options exhausted. What the American colonists sought all along was not revolution, but preservation - preservation of their individual and religious freedom and self-government they had developed in the colonies over the previous 150 plus years. This cause was not only theirs but truly mankind's as well, and the signers of this Declaration knew that in all probability they were also signing their own death warrants. In the words of Benjamin Franklin, “We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall hang separately.” Their decision was treason to the British government, but supreme allegiance to Nature's God, the Author of human freedom.You see: these were men who had much more to lose than to gain by their decision that is, except for one thing..... The fate of some of them is as follows: Carter Braxton, well-to-do planter and trader saw his ships destroyed.

To pay his debts, he lost his home and all of his properties and died without a cent to his name. Thomas Lynch Jr., a

third generation rice grower and large plantation owner saw his health fail and he and his wife set out for France.

Their ship was never heard from again.

The British used the home of William Floyd as a barracks. His family fled to Connecticut where they lived as refugees. His fields were stripped and his home damaged. Thomas McKean was so harassed by the enemy that he was forced to move his family five times in five months. He served in Congress without pay with his family in hiding.

Vandals looted the properties of William Ellery, George Clymer, Richard Stockton, Lyman Hall, Button Gwinnett, Thomas Heyward, George Walton and Edward Rutledge. Heyward, Rutledge, and Arthur Middleton were captured when the British seized Charleston. Richard Stockton was dragged from his bed, thrown into prison, and treated like a common criminal. He was released in 1777, but with his estate pillaged and broken health he died just a few years later at age 51. Thomas Nelson raised two million dollars on his own signature to provision our allies.

After the war, he personally payed back the loans, losing his entire estate and he was never reimbursed by his government. In the final battle for Yorktown, Nelson reportedly instructed artillerymen to fire on his own home which was occupied by Cornwallis and subsequently destroyed. The Hessions seized the home of Francis Hopkinson. Francis Lewis’s home was destroyed and his wife imprisoned and she died within a few months. At age sixty-three, John Hart was driven from his wife’s bedside while she was dying. Their 13 children fled in all directions for their lives. His fields and grist mill were destroyed and for more than a year he lived in forests and caves. After the war, he returned home to find his wife dead and his children and properties gone. He died before the war's end. Lewis Morris saw his property destroyed and family scattered. Philip Livingston died within a few months from the hardships of the War. John Hancock, one of the wealth-

iest men in New England, stood outside Boston one terrible night of the War and reportedly said, “Burn Boston though it makes John Hancock a beggar, if the public good requires it.”

While all of the signers did not experience these hardships and tragedies, they were all quite prepared and willing to do so. So endangered was each of the signers from British retaliation, it wasn't until January 18, 1777 (after Washington's victories at Trenton and Princeton) that Congress authorized the printing of the Declaration with all the names listed.

On July 4, 1821, John Quincy Adams declared: “The highest glory of the American Revolution was this; it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity. From the day of the Declaration....they (the American people) were bound by the laws of God, which they all, and by the laws of The Gospel, which they nearly all, acknowledge as the rules of their conduct.”

In an 1826 letter, the last he ever wrote, Thomas Jefferson spoke of the importance of Independence Day. For ourselves, let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollections of these rights, and an undiminished devotion to them.

From B.J. Lossing's 1848 publication,“Signers of the Declaration of Independence,” the following incident is related. On the morning of the Declaration's adoption, the venerable bellman ascended to the steeple, and a boy was placed at the door of the Hall to give him notice when the vote should be concluded. The old man waited long at his post, saying, “They will never do it, they will never do it.” Suddenly a loud shout came up from below, and there stood the blue-eyed boy, clapping his hands, and shouting, “Ring! Ring!”

Grasping the iron tongue of the bell, backward and forward, he [the bellman] hurled it a hundred times, proclaiming “Liberty to the land and to the inhabitants thereof."

10 State News

June 30, 2021

HUMOR My Pulse Hogspore News

Hold Off On The Flowers Unless They’re Roses

By Clet Litter from the Ozarks

Old Man Grimely wants to say, “I ain’t dead.” Last week’s news mighta suggested that he’d gone on to his reward. He is very much alive, and just refilled his prescriptions, since his wedding anniversary is on July fourth. He went on, “My thanks go to the men in town for the flowers sent to my young wife, but she don’t need any shoulders to cry on. I know you said you would be there for her, but stay where you are for now. Hold off on the flowers unless they’re roses. We do appreciate the casseroles and baked goods. Keep those coming.”

The Mena, Arkansas BigMart is eliminating employee-run cash registers.

You have to scan your own groceries, put them in bags, and pay for them with a debit or credit card. One cashier with over three weeks experience oversees the 20 automatic checkouts to help with any problems. But, what could go wrong?

Jimmy Suspenders says, “Nobody drives that far to shop cept for big items.

I’m fine with the auto registers, cause I always shoplift.”

Presenting: Trivia that you can wow folks with, maybe not everybody, but a fair amount of the nearly gifted ones. “The reason it feels hotter now than your childhood days is cause when you were a child, you were farther from the sun.” “When your older friends in Mexico can’t remember, they call that a Senor Momento.” “It takes two to tango, but three can get you arrested.” “There are no marriage counselors for Praying Mantises. Their honeymoon ends suddenly when the bride gets mad and fed up with the groom at breakfast.”

Mumford Pickens was quoting from a book about Saint Seraphim of Sarov who was born in the 1700s in Russia. I can’t tell you why Mumford was reading that book or why he wanted to read the Russian edition. He mighta been showing off again.

Here’s a few lines, “Drink water from the spring where horses drink. The horse will never drink bad water. Eat the fruit that has been touched by a worm.” I got inspired with trying to copy nature and the animal ways. The new lifestyle was going right well till the sheriff stopped me whilst I was walking my dog. Turns out, it’s ok for dogs, but it is definitely illegal for people to squat in parks.

Contact Clet Litter: bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you want to.

MENA REAL ESTATE

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HUMAN REMAINS ID AS MISSING MAN JUNE 21 The remains discovered earlier this week at a Eudora residence have been positively identified by the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory Medical Examiner.

Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division have been requested by Eudora police officers to investigate the death of an unknown individual found inside a local home.

Agents were able to enter the home at 2230 North Main Street earlier this afternoon after local police officers responded to a call of human remains found inside the house.

The decomposed body of Michael Calloway, 29, of Oak Grove, Louisiana.

Calloway had been reported as a missing person on June 17, 2021 by the Oak Grove Police Department.

Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division are leading an investigation into the death along with officers of the Oak Grove and Eudora Police Departments.

TRAFFIC STOP SHOOTING IN LONOKE COUNTY JUNE 23 An overnight traffic stop by a Lonoke County sheriff ’s deputy ended in a shooting incident that left a teenager dead. The incident occurred outside a local auto repair shop about 3 AM today south of Cabot along Arkansas Highway 89.

Hunter Britain, 17, of McRae, the driver of a truck stopped by the deputy, sustained a gunshot wound and was transported to a North Little Rock hospital where he later died.

Special Agents assigned to the state police Criminal Investigation Division are leading the investigation at the request of the Lonoke County Sheriff ’s Department.

The circumstances of the traffic stop and what may have led up to the deputy firing his gun at Britain will be document-

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ed in the investigation. The investigative file upon completion will be turned-over to the Lonoke County prosecuting attorney to decide whether facts and evidence in the case are consistent or not with Arkansas laws related to the use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer.

Questions related to the identity of the deputy or his current administrative status should be directed to the Lonoke County sheriff.

3 LEOs INJURED IN ASSAULT JUNE 14, Hoxie Police Department authorities and the Lawrence County Prosecuting Attorney have requested the Arkansas State Police to conduct a criminal investigation of an incident that resulted in injuries to three local law enforcement officers earlier today.

Shortly before 9 AM a Hoxie police officer encountered a man walking along the overpass at the Arkansas Highway 367 and U.S. Highway 63 intersection.

The man, identified as Matthew Dale Hatley, 26, Black Rock (Lawrence County), was carrying what was described as an iron pipe.

According to Hoxie police officers, Hatley was able to enter the officer’s patrol car and began hitting the officer with the pipe. During the assault, Hatley was able to get control of the police officer’s handgun and fired the weapon. The officer was not hit by the gunfire.

Local and state law enforcement backup assistance quickly arrived, and officers were able disarm Hatley despite his continued resistance.

Two officers were hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries and a third was treated and released with minor injuries.

Hatley has been incarcerated at the Lawrence County Detention Center and presently faces multiple charges, including three counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.

Questions relating to the identity of the Hoxie police officer who initially encountered Hatley should be directed to the Hoxie Police Department.

The Lawrence County Sheriff ’s Department Criminal Investigation Division is assisting state police special agents in the continuing investigation.

THE POLK COUNTY

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Community 11

June 30, 2021

Opportunity for fundraisers at MDP’s Christmas In July

Submitted by Judy Thompson/ Mena Downtown Partners

The Mena Downtown Partners’ Events Committee met on June 25 at The Ouachitas for further planning of the Christmas in July in downtown.

The activity will be Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24. Judy Thompson advises that this will be the third time Downtown Partners has celebrated Christmas in July. In addition to decorations and holiday displays, there will be store specials and sales both days.

In addition, downtown visitors can register at participating businesses for a $250 downtown gift certificate.

On Friday afternoon, Thompson said everyone needs to be ready for a ‘melted snowstorm’ at the corner of Mena and Martin Streets as the Mena Fire Department prepares to cool off kids of Photo Courtesy MEna Downtown Partners all ages.

From 10:00 to 2:00 on Saturday, SumEvents Committee of Downtown Partners was busy making plans for Christmas in July at recent meeting. Shown left to right are mer Santa will be downtown to visit Marisa Johnson, Pasha Watson, Linda Ostman, Judy Thompson and Nancy Lands. Not shown are Jackye Pruitt, Elizabeth Horn and Larraine and children can visit Santa’s Work- Davis. shop to complete various crafts. They registration is necessary. To register, may also have their face painted or be text Thompson at 479 216-7644 to adcreative with sidewalk chalk.

A new part of the event will be an op- vise interest and give group name, conportunity for churches, clubs or other tact name and phone number or drop non-profit organizations to have a fun by Wild Hare Art Glass Studio at 609 and easy fundraiser. Tables may be set Mena with same information. Comup downtown on Saturday from 10:00 plete information including setup locato 2:00 to sell crafts or baked goods. tion will then be forwarded to particiThompson noted that Christmas items pant. Linda Ostman, MDP President, and baked goods would be great, but urges churches and non-profits to be a not required. Groups must furnish part of this downtown event. She also their own table(s) and chairs. There is notes that further information will be no fee to participate; however, advance published after planning is finalized.

2021 Football/Cheer Registration

394-1938

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Bring your athlete for some swimming while you register them for the upcoming season!

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12 Community

THE POLK COUNTY

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June 30, 2021

BIG The Musical Opens July 2 at OLT

Submitted by Ouachita Little Theater

Ouachita Little Theatre is proud to announce they are back in full swing with their first large scale production in over fifteen months. BIG The Musical will be presented July 2-4 and again July 9-11. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees are at 2:30 PM. Tickets are available at the door and advanced reserved seating may be purchased Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays weekly at the OLT office from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM. These shows will be sold to capacity numbers, therefore no socially distanced seating will be available. Masks are at the discretion of those in attendance.

This energetic musical is based on the popular 1988 Tom Hanks movie BIG. The story revolves around 12-year-old Josh Baskin (played by Anna Burt) whose wish at a carni-

val turns him into a 30-year-old man overnight. He heads to New York City and gets a job at a toy company run

by Mr. McMillan (Chris Benner). A fellow worker, Susan Lawrence, (Lexi Williams) takes a romantic interest in “adult” Josh (James Taylor) and the pressures of living as a grown-up become overwhelming as he yearns for his simple former life as an adolescent boy.

The musical version of this story originated in 1996 with book by John Weidman, music by David Shire, and lyrics by Richard Maltby. The results are whimsical, funny, and touching.

Look for classic scenes involving the mystical Zoltar booth, and the floor piano duet featuring Josh and Mr. McMillan. Locally directed by Jessica Kropp, music directed by Judy Kropp, plus a host of talented cast and crew on hand, this lively show is perfect for all ages. Get your tickets in advance for preferred seating!

B I G

The Musical

Courtesy Photos Chris Benner (Mr. MacMillan) and James Taylor (Josh Baskin) practicing the famous piano scene from Big the Musical. The piano was designed and built by Rudi Timmerman.

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Community 13

June 30, 2021

Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC

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OLT rehearses in BIG way!

Keith Aleshire Principal Broker

479-243-5341 kaleshire@aol.com

4052- Magnificent view of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. In Timber Ridge (approx 1.7 acres) including a pond! Vaulted ceilings, wall alcoves, and double fireplace between living room and the master suite.

Spacious kitchen with abundant cabinetry, 2 pantries and a home office/crafting space, laundry, half bath & ample storage closets. laundr 26x30 3 bay attached garage all convenient to the back door. A Storm Cellar is steps away from the garage. 2 bay, 28x34 Garage, w/1/2 bath and side entrance provides extra space for vehicles, a boat and your own awesome workshop. MLS20013369 $334,500

Courtesy Photos Above, Tiffani Cavelli (Billie) tries to encourage James Taylor (Josh) that he can get a job as an adult. Scotty Jenkins (Bum) sleeps on a bench.

At right, Anna Burt (Young Josh) listens as Tiffani Cavelli (Billie) talks about going to the Carnival at the beginning of the musical Big.

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14 Community

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June 30, 2021

Boots garner most donations during annual blood drive

Photos by Jeri Pearson Community members rallied in support of area firefighters and gave blood in the honor of their favorite heroes, resulting in 87 donations for boots and 78 donations From top left photo, Mena Fire Chief Steve Egger taunts Polk County Sheriff Scott for the badges.

Sawyer; Mena Police Chief Tommy Stuart makes his donation; the Badges Team Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer shared a humbling message on social media, commandeer a fire truck; Boots Team members hijack a county deputy unit during the 2021 Boots and Badges Blood Drive. noting the annual event is a fun way to host a successful blood drive.

“It hurts me to say it but, congratulations to the Boots (Fire Fighters) on their first victory in the annual Boots and Badges Blood Drive. Y’all did a great job and helped make this year’s blood drive a success. So to the Waterboys... congratulations and wait til’ next year. To my brothers in blue...we’ve got some work to do.”

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Outdoors 15

June 30, 2021

OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL

ATV SAFETY

By Steven E Stillwell

Our area is infamous for tourism, kayaking, hiking, exploring and ATV riding. During the summer months, it seems like every time I go to town, I’ll see an out of town visitor parked at a gas station filling their vehicle up, and they’re towing a trailer loaded with 4-wheelers, dirt-bikes, or ATVS. Some of these people have been here before, so they’re familiar with our forest and trails, but the others who haven’t concern me, because our unique and rocky terrain can be dangerous if they’re not cautious. All it takes is one careless incident to maim, or kill someone, and in most cases, these accidents could have been avoided.

Driving too fast for conditions, poor visibility, excessively worn tires, bad brakes, failing to maintain or repair your ATV, and abusing drugs, alcohol, or both, are usually contributing factors when there’s a crippling accident, or fatality. Years ago, I remember hearing a report about two guys who got drunk and decided to, PLAY CHICKEN on their 4-wheelers. Needless to say, one of these reckless daredevils lost his life when they collided head-on! A few years later, I read a horrible story about two dudes who went deer hunting, and it was during the early muzzle-loading season. They were riding separate ATVS, and one of the guys had strapped his rifle on the back of his rig, pointed in his partner’s direction. He forgot

to remove his primer. As they traveled down the trail, single-file, the vibration caused the hammer to fall, discharging the weapon, and killing the guy behind.

When we analyze these scenarios, the culmination of haphazard decisions resulted in tragedies that shouldn’t have happened. If people would just take the time to, THINK BEFORE THEY ACT, the world would be a safer place!

Safety gear such as chaps, goggles, helmet and gloves can make your riding experience a little safer. How many of you reading this article have ever had a stone chip your windshield when you were driving down the highway; imagine what would happen if one struck you in the eye while riding your 4-wheeler without safety glasses, or facial protection? Just remember, Safelite Auto-glass repair won’t be able to fix your vision!

All new ATVS come with instruction manuals, and most of the manufacturers are even including DVDS with riding demonstrations and safety tips. I would advise reading, watching the videos, and familiarizing yourself with all of the provided information. I remember the first 4-wheeler I purchased. I read all of the brochures and the owner’s manual from cover-to-cover and that bike lasted me for 21 years. It still runs, but I gave it to my grandson as a gift, because he’s employed by an ATV dealer in Hot Springs Arkansas, and he wanted a project to work on.

When you’re exploring new territory and riding on unfamiliar trails, take your time, be cautious, and don’t do anything foolish. Remember, you can

ride further in one hour, than you can walk in a day. When you’re cruising around in the back-country, be sure to take a day-pack with some survival gear, just in case! The last thing you want to become is a statistic, especially if you’re on vacation.

Have a Happy and Safe

We invite you to join our Facebook page, Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival, and be sure to tune into our podcast program, The Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival Show. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

SMALL ANIMAL MEDICINE & SURGERY

DR. TYLER FRANS DR. GORDON MCDONALD

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THE TH OF JULY IS A FESTIVE TIME FOR MOST OF US

BUT THE LOUD SOUNDS, FLASHING LIGHTS AND SCARY SMELLS CAN FRIGHTEN OUR PETS AND CAUSE THEM A LOT OF STRESS, PLEASE KEEP THEM INSIDE YOUR HOME UNTIL THE FESTIVITIES ARE OVER.

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16 Independence Day

June 30, 2021

A Nation's Strength

By William Ralph Emerson

What makes a nation's pillars high And its foundations strong?

What makes it mighty to defy The foes that round it throng?

It is not gold. Its kingdoms grand Go down in battle shock; Its shafts are laid on sinking sand, Not on abiding rock.

Is it the sword? Ask the red dust Of empires passed away;

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

The blood has turned their stones to rust, Who dare while others fly...

Their glory to decay.

They build a nation's pillars deep And lift them to the sky.

And is it pride? Ah, that bright crown William Ralph Emerson was an architect Has seemed to nations sweet; and second cousin of the famous poet Ralph But God has struck its luster down Waldo Emerson. In addition to designing In ashes at his feet.

many houses and inns, William Ralph Emer-

Not gold but only men can make A people great and strong; Men who for truth and honor's sake Stand fast and suffer long.

Brave men who work while others sleep,

son helped to design some of the first buildings at the National Zoo in Washington, DC. In this poem, Emerson reflects on the aspects that make a nation strong. It’s not the wealth, weapons, or pride of a nation. Instead, it’s the determined, brave, and truthful people who are the pillars of a nation.

Happy

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Independence Day

THE POLK COUNTY

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June 30, 2021

Community 17

City holds annual 4th of July Mena Public School Board holds June Meeting Celebration at Tapley Park Submitted by Mena Public Schools

The Mena School Board met for their regular June meeting on Tuesday at the district administration building.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lee Smith led the meeting in the absence of Mr. Benny Weston and presented the superintendent’s report. He said that parents can expect a survey in the near future concerning the loss of learning during the pandemic. These are a part of the consultations required by the federal government for the allocation of ARP ESSER 3 funds.

Smith also let the board know that the waivers for board meetings during the pandemic came to an end on April 30 . He is anticipating the return of pre COVID procedures when classes resume on August 16.

Next on the agenda was the reorganization and election of board officers. After a brief discussion the board elected to leave the current officers in place for another cycle. Later in the meeting they also chose to leave committee assignments the same as well.

The board was then asked to approve a transfer to the building fund. Act 1105 of 2017 requires the district to transfer any amount over 20% of total revenue to the building fund. A transfer of excess revenues above an ending balance of $2,600,000.00 was approved.

Mr. Danny Minton then addressed the board and presented a facilities report. At Louise Durham Elementary floors are being stripped and waxed. Some painting is taking place and he also informed the board of bids received for the replacement of the steamer in the cafeteria. The board approved the low bid.

At Holly Harshman Elementary new warming tables have been installed in the cafeteria, there has been some painting and of course the floors are getting refurbished. At Mena Middle School the unused lockers have been removed, some partitions are being rebuilt and painted. At Mena High School there is painting and floor work being done as well. New water heaters have been installed in the cafeteria and Minton passed along bids received for the installation of shot clocks at the Union Bank Center. The low bid was approved. It will include all hardware and software needed for the installation and operation. The Arkansas Activities Association has ruled that a shot clock will be used in basketball and implemented in all classifications at the start of the 22/23 season.

Dr. Smith then informed the board of a $10,000.00 increase in the premium for the district’s building and property insurance caused by an increase of replacement and operational expenses of the insurance agency. The board voted to ap-

See BOARD page 18

Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative Inc.

Your Local Energy Partner WWW.RMEC. COM 515 Janssen, Mena 394-4140

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Submitted by Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission

Join us on Sunday, July 4th, at Tapley Park, as the City of Mena lights up the sky with their fireworks celebration! Grab your blankets, friends, and family and be awed by this incredible spectacle of fireworks. Festivities will kick off with bouncy houses, water slides, concessions, a Home Run Derby and face painting. Local favorite Brothers & Sons will be entertaining the crowd. The Homerun Derby will be held from 5pm to 7pm. The bouncy houses, water slides, and face painting will begin at 5pm and are free to the public. Music will kick off at 8pm and the fireworks display will begin around 9:30 p.m.

This family-friendly, free event is brought to you by The Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission. The Commission would like to thank all the sponsors who support the 4th of July Celebration in a variety of ways. Our sponsors provide generous assistance that makes our 4th of July Celebration a memorable community event.

HELP WANTED

GREEN HOUSE COTTAGES OF HOMEWOOD IN MENA

IS LOOKING FOR ENERGETIC, DEPENDABLE CNAs TO JOIN THEIR TEAM. A VERY COMPETITIVE PAY, STARTING AT $13.50, BENEFITS AND FLEXIBLE HOURS. COME GROW WITH GREEN HOUSE COTTAGES OF HOMEWOOD AS THEY MAKE THEIR ELDERS’ LIVES WORTH APPLIC LIVING. APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR DAY OR NIGHT SHIFTS FOR CNAs. AN INTERVIEW CAN BE SCHEDULED FOR THE SAME DAY.

CONTACT GREEN HOUSE COTTAGES OF HOMEWOOD AT 479-394-3511 TO APPLY.

got medicare???

18 Community

THE POLK COUNTY

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June 30, 2021

continued form page 17 Polk County Extension office offers BOARD prove the renewal of that policy as well tion concerning the instructional time as the supplemental student accident waiver extension for the alternative edServSafe Manager Course ucation program. It was approved. insurance policy.

Submitted by Polk County Extension Office

ServSafe has been the industry standard since 1919 in training millions of people how to receive, store, prepare, and serve food safely. Through the Cooperative Extension Service, we offer training and certifications for the ServSafe Food Handler, ServSafe Manager, and ServSafe Instructor & Proctor programs. The Arkansas Department of Health is now requiring each food service facility to have at least one supervisory employee who has Certified Food Manager training.

A ServSafe Certified Food Manager Course will be offered on August 12-13, and 16 at the Extension Education Building located at 211 DeQueen Street, Mena, AR. The training will take place beginning at 8 a.m. on August 12. The course will cost $140 for New Managers and $60 for re-certifications. The course cost pays for the book and the exam. Participants who pass the exam will receive a ServSafe Food Manager Certification good for five years. All participants must pre-register and pay by Monday, July 19. Class size is limited. Once the Servsafe books are distributed, they are non-refundable.

If you have any questions or would like to register, please contact the Polk County Extension Office at 479-394-6018 or stop by our office at 211 DeQueen Street, Mena, AR. You can also email Bridgett Martin at bmartin@uada.edu .This workshop is open to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Persons who require ADA accommodation, language and/or interpretation services for your Servsafe course instruction, and/or examination should notify the county Extension office (or other appropriate office) as soon as possible prior to the activity.

Smith then spoke briefly on the district’s policy to align with emergency COVID-19 legislation and the cancellation of special waivers for the instructional day.

Next on the agenda was the annual disclosure statement. The board voted to renew its contract with the Union Bank of Mena as its primary banking partner.

Dr. Smith shared information on new core literature curriculum for grades K-5. A committee reviewed several options and suggested Benchmark Workshop Curriculum. This suggestion was approved. It will be paid for with ESSER funds and will be in use for six years.

Mr. Benny Weston had expressed an interest in purchasing the vehicle that the district provided him in his position as superintendent. The board approved the sale at fair market value.

Incoming assistant superintendent Bridget Buckley then read a proclama-

Next on the agenda was the purchase of three used busses at a cost of $21,000.00. That purchase was approved.

The board then corrected an oversight from a previous meeting concerning the length of the contract for the new superintendent. The board approved a two year contract.

As always the final item on the agenda concerned personnel.

The board accepted the retirement of bus driver Rose Branch and the resignation of Para Professional Jackie Baird. New hires included: Brianne Burford – LDE, Leanna Harper – LDE, Linda Shelley – MHS, Sarah Billings – MMS, Vincent Coleman – Maintenance and Bus Driver, Elizabeth Thompkins – Bus Driver, Casey Adams – Interventionist and Para Pro @MMS, Christy Chandler – Interventionist and Para Pro @ MHS. The board meets on the third Tuesday of every month.

SUMMER ENERGY CONSERVATION TIPS TO HELP AVOID HIGH ELECTRIC USAGE : • TRY TURNING YOUR HOUSEHOLD THERMOSTAT UP A COUPLE OF DEGREES.

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• AVOID USING LARGE APPLIANCES BETWEEN 3:30PM AND 6:30PM. • KEEP THE SHADES CLOSED WHEN YOU CAN.

GENERAL CONTRACTORS RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

• TURN OFF ANY UNNECESSARY LIGHTING.

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• ABOVE ALL, CHECK AND REPLACE ANY DIRTY AIR FILTERS. AND, AS ALWAYS, CONTACT US AT RICH MOUNTAIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE IF WE CAN HELP. REMEMBER, WE ARE HERE FOR YOU.

(479) 394-4140

515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953

479.394.4248

104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344

FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION WE’LL BRING IT HOME!

THE POLK COUNTY

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Around Town

The Wickes/Cossatot Senior call Erica at 479-216-7249.

Center will be closed July 5th in observance of the July 4th holiday.

Ross Tunnel American Legion Post 249 meet every 2nd 2021 Football/Cheer Regis- Tuesday of the month. The next meeting tration, July 12 for 5th & 6th grades, is July 13 at 6pm at 177 Highway 278 July 13 for 3rd & 4th grades, McMillan Park Pool, 5:30-7:30pm. Bring your athlete for East in Wickes. Meetings our open to all some swimming while you register them for veterans and their families For questions call 1-479-216-5664. the upcoming season!

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 Ouachita Little Theatre has continue that tradition in the old form new office hours. Located at 610 Mena and with some crossover to more contemStreet, Suite B, the office will be open porary styles.

Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Jonathan Wilburn was lead singer for 2:00-6:00pm. Season tickets, as well as the preeminent quartet Gold City for 12 reserved seating for “Big the Musical,” years. He was voted Favorite Lead Singer are on sale now. Audiences will be open in the industry all 12 of those years. Havto full capacity for this show. Masks are ing a group of that caliber is a treat for recommended for those who are not Hatfield, and they will be a blessing to all vaccinated for COVID-19 but are no longer who attend. ­­The concert is free, though required. we will be receiving a love offering.

St. Agnes Church will host a food distribution on Thursday, July 1st from 10:00-Noon at 203 8th St. in Mena.

Distribution will be at the church office.

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 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

Around Town 19

June 30, 2021

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 214212-8012.

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 479-2439600 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!

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HAVE A STORY OR ANNOUNCEMENT YOU WANT TO SHARE? WE’RE ONLY A FEW CLICKS AWAY.

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20 State News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

June 30, 2021

From the

US House of Representatives

Rising Prices Harm Famidining out – as well as other lies and Require Course Corgoods like semiconductor chips rection that are critical electronics The economic turmoil we components, including in our have lived through in the last increasingly high-tech automo16 months, since the onset of biles, and even lumber have risthe pandemic in the United en. This surge in prices makes States, has been unlike anylife difficult for many, but parthing most of us have exticularly for low-income famiperienced in our lifetimes. lies that already struggle with a Thankfully, we are on track John Boozman lack of disposable income. to recover.

In a recent Fox News poll, 83 There is, however, one lingering percent of respondents said they were concern we should be mindful about extremely or very concerned about in– inflation. flation and around 70 percent reportAmericans old enough to remem- ed that recent increases in the price of ber the Great Inflation that began in groceries and gas were a serious hardthe 1960s and persisted throughout ship. Another contemporary survey the 1970s can recall how dramatically found that, among those interviewed, our lives and economic activities were 72 percent said their incomes had not altered when prices rose and supplies increased while 86 percent said they diminished. It’s a recipe for real hard- are experiencing price increases. ship, worry and frustration.

Consumers aren’t the only ones Wage and price controls and even dealing with higher costs. Businesses rationing were instituted to help al- are feeling the effects too. The supleviate pressure on the economy. The ply chain has experienced numerous cost of living soared. Prices of gaspressures and complications, causing oline, meat, clothing and more skydelays and shortages that eventually rocketed.

The challenge stretched into the result in reduced profits or costs that 1980s and inflation peaked above 10 get passed onto consumers.

As these indicators persist, we percent before declining to manageshould recognize what they could able levels. mean for our economy more broadly.

Our economy today is clearly reEven now we should begin to conbounding after a prolonged period of closures and suppressed opportuni- sider the drivers of inflation and what ties. As schools and businesses have can be done to mitigate or unwind reopened, and vaccines have become them. Policies championed by the more widely available, pent-up eco- Biden administration are contributnomic demand has begun to surface in ing to the rise in prices at the gasoline a noticeable way. But there are warn- pump and along grocery store aisles. ing signs that we should heed when it Hampering domestic energy produccomes to the approach we take to our tion, pushing for tax increases on job creators and proposing record defispending and monetary policies.

Case in point: in April of this year, cit-level spending are all factors that the Consumer Price Index was 4.2 can and do push prices up.

It’s time for the president and his percent higher than at that point in 2020. In May, it was five percent high- allies in government to read the warner. This data tells us the cost of goods ing signs and adjust their agenda aclike gas and groceries have risen well cordingly. Americans shouldn’t be above the average rate, and we don’t forced to deal with higher costs and have to look far to see the evidence scarce resources because of runaway spending and misguided policies that that supports this conclusion.

Prices of basic necessities like gas- hit families where it hurts most, their oline and food – both groceries and pocketbooks.

From the

State Capitol acter at pivotal moments in Immortalizing Two Artheir remarkable lives. kansas Icons Under Mr. Victor’s hand, First, the Arkansas GenDaisy Bates stands with eral Assembly had the tough a newspaper tucked untask of choosing the two der her left arm and a spipeople who would repreral-bound notepad in her sent Arkansas in Statuary right hand. She is stepping Hall in our nation’s capital, out with her left foot, stridand then we had a nationAsa ing ahead with the resolve wide search for the artists who would sculpt the statues. To- Hutchinson and fortitude that Mr. Victor day I’m happy to report we now have discovered as he studied her life, inselected the artists for the statues of cluding the year of the desegregation civil rights icon Daisy Bates and mu- crisis in 1957 when she mentored the Little Rock Nine. sic legend Johnny Cash.

Mr. Kresse’s statue of Johnny Cash This discussion began in 2018 with the consensus that we needed a his- will enhance his reputation as a torical update in who represents Ar- sculptor of Arkansas musicians. In kansas in Statuary Hall. The Arkan- Mr. Kresse’s depiction of the Man sans who have been standing in for in Black, you see in Mr. Cash’s face the state for nearly a hundred years a hint of the hard life he lived. Mr. are U.M. Rose, a lawyer who served Kresse has slung Johnny’s guitar as president of the American Bar across his back, and the strap of the Association, and James Paul Clarke, guitar crosses beneath the Bible he a governor of Arkansas and a U.S. carries in his right hand, testimony senator. to the faith that delivered Johnny The legislature authorized the up- from his hard living. date in 2019, and since Arkansas is As the artists go to work, we well-known for its civil rights lead- must raise the final $300,000 of the ers and musicians, Daisy Bates and amount needed to pay the artists and Johnny Cash are fitting replacements for the delivery and installations of for Mr. Rose and Mr. Clarke. the new statues as well as the return Once we had settled that matter, of the other statues to Arkansas. the Secretary of State’s office put out A lot of people have worked on a call for artists. The U.S. Statuary this project, including the members Hall Steering Committee and the of the U.S. Statuary Hall Steering Arkansas Capitol Arts and Grounds Committee and the Arkansas Capitol Commission narrowed the list of ap- Arts and Grounds Commission; the plicants to three for each statue.

Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash famiThe artists wheeled in their clay lies and foundations; the Arkansas prototypes of Daisy Bates and John- Secretary of State’s Office; and Shane ny Cash to the Capitol last month, Broadway, chairman of the Steering and members of the committees Committee, former speaker of the spent June 14 hearing from each of House, and all-around thoughtful them. Ultimately, they chose Benja- and kind guy. min Victor to sculpt Daisy Bates and When we undertook this project, Little Rock artist Kevin Kresse to my goal was to have Daisy Bates and sculpt Johnny Cash.

Johnny Cash in place by the time I The artists’s attention to details leave office in January 2023. Consuch as the way they stood and the gratulations to Mr. Kresse and Mr. expressions on their face capture not Victor. I hope to visit with them at only the likeness of Mrs. Bates and the unveiling of their work sometime Mr. Cash but a sense of their char- in the next 18 months.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

June 30, 2021

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.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG

June 21, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 671 near Ink of the theft of a weed eater and battery charger valued at $650.00. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 432 near Wickes of a missing family member. Deputy responded. Family member was later located.

June 22, 2021 No reports filed.

June 23, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 45 near Shady Grove of a trespasser led to the arrest of Nathaniel S. James, 22, of Mena, on a Charge of Criminal Trespass.

Report of a stolen vehicle on Polk 38 near Hatfield. Deputy responded.

June 24, 2021 Report of a possible vehicle accident on 375E near Shady led to the arrest of Zachary M. Abner, 29, of Watson, Oklahoma, on a Warrant for Domestic Battery 3rd Degree.

Additional information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges.

Report from complainant on Hwy 71S near Potter of the theft of a pistol valued at $500.00. Deputy responded.

Report of a theft on Polk 31 near Cove. Deputy responded.

Arrested was Nathaniel J. Noble, 35, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure

to Appear.

June 25, 2021 Report from complainant on Payne Lane near Grannis of fraudulent bank activity. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Hwy 246E near Vandervoort of an incident involving vehicle repairs. Deputy responded.

Report of a domestic altercation on Hwy 246W near Hatfield. Deputy responded.

Arrested was Lea M. Fox, 41, of Grannis, on a Charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and a Charge of Possession of Meth or Cocaine Purpose to Deliver.

Arrested was Shealeena R. Phillips, 36, of Wickes, on a Charge of Possession of Meth or Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Meth or Cocaine Purpose to Deliver.

Arrested was Ronda R. Whisenhunt, 53, of Wickes, on a Charge of Maintaining a Drug Premise and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Arrested was Bobby E. Hedrick, 50, of Wickes, on a Charge of Possession of Meth or Cocaine Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Maintaining a Drug Premise, and a Warrant for Failure to Appear.

Arrested was Steven O. Hedrick, 54, of Wickes, on a Charge of Possession of Meth or Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Maintaining a Drug Premise, Possession of Meth or Cocaine Purpose to Deliver.

June 26, 2021 Report of a structure fire on Polk

267 near Vandervoort. Deputy responded.

A welfare check on Polk 151 near Hatfield led to the arrest of Jackson L. Daugherty, 24, of Hatfield on a Charge of DWI and a Charge of Criminal Mischief 1st Degree.

June 27, 2021 Traffic stop on Hwy 71S near Hatfield led to the arrest of Linette M. Colson, 30, of Mena, on a Charge of DWI, Driving Left of Center, and Defective Signal Lamps and Signal Lights.

Traffic stop on Hwy 4 near Cove led to the arrest of Seth M. Sherwood, 19, of Wickes, on a Charge of DWI. Report from complainant on Polk 23 near Cove of the theft of a post and plywood valued at $750.00.

Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 675 near Big Fork of a domestic incident. Deputy responded.

Arrested was Kendra D. Davis, 36, of Cove, on two Warrants for Failure to Appear.

Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked two vehicle accidents this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 22 Incarcerated Inmates, with 5 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS June 20 Garrett Puerto, 25, and Laurie Pecora, 23, were both charged with Violation of a No Contact Order af-

Police Reports 21

ter a disturbance call to a residence on Rodgers Street.

June 21 No reports.

June 22 Aaron Tyler, 28, was charged with Loitering and Theft by Receiving, in the Northside Shopping Center, after a complaint.

Dale Dunigan, 33, was charged with Disorderly Conduct after a disturbance call to a residence on Mama Mia Drive.

June 23 Hunter Dodson, 28, was charged with Public Intoxication, Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest after a disturbance call to a residence on Roach Avenue.

Charles Walker, 72, was served with three warrants at the police department.

June 24 A report of breaking or entering was taken from a walk-in complainant.

Christopher Ridley, 58, was charged with Careless or Prohibited Driving, Fleeing in a Vehicle, and Resisting Arrest on Gary Drive after an attempted traffic stop.

Ronald Staggs, 58, was charged with Public Intoxication, Disorderly Conduct, and Resisting Arrest after a disturbance call to the hospital.

June 25 A report of child abuse was taken from a walk-in complainant.

June 26 Christa Holliday, 31, was charged with Disorderly Conduct and served with a warrant after a disturbance call to 7th Street.

Christopher Ridley, 58, was charged with Disorderly Conduct, Public Intoxication and Resisting Arrest after a disturbance call to a residence on Gary Drive.

22 Classifieds

June 30, 2021

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

- EMPLOYMENT -

IMMEDIATE JOB

OPPORTUNITY Vice Chancellor of Administration

For qualifications, job description list of benefits, and application process, visit: https://www.uarichmountain.edu and select EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES at the bottom of the home page.

IMMEDIATE

JOB

OPPORTUNITY ETS Outreach Representative

For qualifications, job description, list of benefits, and application process, go online to EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES at: UARichMountain.edu

CLASSIFIEDS

Help us build our Classified Section.

Get your word ads out to 8,000+ viewers a week for aEEO/AA/ADA minimumEMPLOYER cost. If you have Qualified women, minorities, and veterans tradea listing, saleare item(s), job opening, encouraged to apply. we can put it in an ad for you!!

Place Your Ad in Our Office

1168 Hwy 71 So - Mena, AR You can call, fax or email BUT all ads must be pre-paid.

Deadline

Friday at Noon

Must Pre-Pay CASH / VISA / MC

Cost per Ad

Words 1-20 $ 4 Extra words +$ .25 Add a border +$ 1

Pulse

SWEPCO issues Requests for Proposals

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

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

THE POLK COUNTY

EEO/AA/ADA EMPLOYER Qualified women, minorities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

RELIGION

End Time Bible Questions? Witnesses are revealed. John calls them the witnesses, Daniel calls them the Holy people, Enoch calls them the righteous people.

A detailed revealing of the witnesses comes from The Books of Enoch by Paul C.Schnieders [3-books-in-one]. Here are 2 examples below.

Page 101, Chapter 91:12 A righteous judgment may be executed on the oppressors, and sinners shall be delivered into the hands of the righteous.

Page 103, Chapter 95:3 Fear not the sinners ye righteous; for again will the Lord deliver them into your hands, that ye may execute judgment upon them according to your desires.

The Ethiopian Book of Enoch, Chapters 90 to 100, display the exploits of the righteous people (the witnesses/the Holy people) throughout the world, they are a multitude of followers that have the power of Elijah.

The witnesses have used grace properly and have overcome and developed perfection in themselves, James 3:2; and will sit with Jesus on His throne (on earth) during the millennium, Revelation 3:21.

Each week will be revealed why the witnesses were chosen. A few will realize, Jesus (Yahshua) and God (Yahweh) are serious!

Jesus says the way is perfection. Revelation 3:2 & 3:5 & 20:15 Will you try?

T0630

SHREVEPORT, La., June 28, 2021 – Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO), a subsidiary of American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP), today issued three Requests for Proposals (RFP) for renewable and short-term generating capacity to supply the needs of its customers.

The RFPs solicit bids for the purchase of wind resources of up to 3,000 megawatts (MW); solar resources up to 300 MW and short-term accredited deliverable capacity up to 250 MW. Wind resources must be a minimum of 100 MW, interconnect to the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) and be

located in Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas or Missouri. Solar resources must be a minimum of 50 MW, interconnect to SWEPCO’s transmission system within SPP and be located in the SWEPCO service territory.

Proposals for short-term capacity must be for a minimum of 50 MW from SPP resources.

Proposals are due by Aug. 12, 2021. Response and contact information is available online at SWEPCO. com/2021RFPs. Proposals selected from the three RFPs are subject to appropriate regulatory approvals.

Online auctions of unsold tax-

delinquent properties begin July 1 (Little Rock) – Arkansas property investors will be excited about a change coming to the Commissioner of State Lands Office.

Commissioner Tommy Land announced that his office will begin offering certain parcels for online auction next month.

“These are properties that were offered at auction but did not sell,” Land said. “The post-auction sales list has always been posted on our website, but those properties could only be purchased by mail. We’re moving that process online.”

The COSL office will still hold live, in-person auctions for newly-available properties. The online sales are only for the properties listed on the post-auction sales list. The online auction site is https://auction.cosl.org and properties will be available to view on July 1.

Bidding on any parcel begins when the first offer is made, and the bidding period for that parcel remains open for 30 days from that date. At the end of the 30 days, the winning bidder will be notified.

Only U.S. residents are eligible to purchase property. “Buyers must have a valid U.S. address and identification to purchase property through these online auctions,” Land said.

“The owner still has 10 business days to redeem the property after bidding

ends,” he said. “After the expiration of that time, if the owner has not paid the delinquent amount, we will issue the limited warranty deed to the new buyer.”

He said his office is posting informational videos on its social media and website to demonstrate researching a property and how to bid in the online auctions.

“It’s a simple process, but it’s important that people do some research and understand what they’re bidding on,” Land said. “We’re offering free tutorial videos to help them learn more about this process.”

Post-auction sales are a big part of the COSL’s business. In 2020, when the office couldn’t hold public auctions due to the COVID pandemic, “we sold more than 5,400 parcels that had failed to sell at previous years’ auctions,” he said. In 2019, the last year of auctions, post-auction sales outnumbered auction sales by almost 3-to-1.

“By far, most parcels that are certified to us for delinquent taxes are redeemed by their owners,” he said. “But for those that are not redeemed, the auction and post-auction sales process gets them back into active tax status, which benefits everyone. We’re excited about the new online auctions, and I’m looking forward to more people getting involved.”

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06.30.21

06.30.21

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 06.23.21

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hello! My name is Dusty! I am a beautiful 2 year old. I have a gorgeous brown and white coat. I weigh in at about 40 pounds. Sadly, my owner passed away but I am a good girl who is eager to please. I know how to sit, stay and lay down. I can be shy with new people but I do warm up. I am looking for a home that will go slowly with me. I am housetrained and leash trained. I am good with other dogs and children. Did I mention that I love treats?

Come by HSO and ask for Dusty!

All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for dogs includes a collar, toy, clothing, and harness selection.

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 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

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YOUR MONTHLY HOROSCOPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE AND INTUITIVE HEALING

479-437-4057

by Desirée Eldon Doré For daily affirmation follow us on Facebook/AwkwardAwakenings

July is a month of Abundance.

Spend time in gratitude appreciating everything you have and all the blessings coming your way.

Power Colors: Orange and Purple.

Cancer: Happy Birthday! It’s your season. Time to shine baby! Invest in your friendships and spend the season in celebration. Dance barefoot under the moon and feel the joy of the moment.

Leo: Scared of your shadow? Lion, find the courage to address your problems, letting the moon light wash away all your fears and anxieties. There is so much of you, you hide from the world. Open up and let them hear you ROAR! Virgo: When was the last time you played? Bring back your childlike joy and go have some fun. You’ve had to be the adult for so long, you deserve a break. You know what they say about all work and no play...

Libra: Your scales are tipping in the direction of independence. Remember clear communication is the key to healthy boundaries. You are ready to take your next step, don’t stand in your own way.

Scorpio: The burden is not yours to carry. You’re coming to the end of this cycle and it’s time to release what’s been weighing you down. See the future through fresh eyes without the glare of the past.

Sagittarius: Are you listening?

Or are you trying to hear? Let go of expectations and allow the message to flow. Let the answers come to you. No response is an answer.

Capricorn: You are exactly who you need to be at this very moment. Rec-

ognize how awesome you are and all the wonderful things you’ve accomplished.

Let go of who you think you need to be.

Celebrate every amazing bit of who you are right now.

Aquarius: You make the rules. Why are you putting limitations on yourself?

You didn’t just survive, you’re thriving.

Be Bold. Be Proud. Know that the world is pretty bland without your flavor.

Pisces: You’re waiting for an answer you already know. Confirmation comes in all forms. Don’t let old ways of thinking stop you from making your move.

Roll your shoulders back and remind yourself exactly who in the funk you are!

Aries: Take the trip. Things are aligning themselves for your best outcome.

Relax and enjoy the moment. Manifest what you want by knowing it’s already yours and giving gratitude. Doubt and fear are our biggest blessing blockers.

Taurus: Success is yours, take it. Your hard work and determination have gotten you this far. You deserve the reward.

Gemini: Fresh Start. Death of the old brings birth to the new. Let go of your past and walk into your future without expectations and a clear heart. You’re ready for this new beginning.

Mantras for the month of July. We Release then Affirm.

I release the need for fear, anger, and guilt.

I release all self limiting beliefs .

I give myself permission to be all that I can be.

I flow peacefully through the process of life.

I learn my lessons with ease through joy and laughter.

I am Healthy, Wealthy and Thriving.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Quebedeaux accepted to the Norbert O. Schedler Honors College at the University of Central Arkansas CONWAY, AR-- The Norbert O. Schedler Honors College at the University of Central Arkansas is pleased to announce that Jayden Quebedeaux has been accepted as a member of the incoming fall 2021 class of honors scholars.

This highly selective award is made to 75 graduating high school students from Arkansas and elsewhere. Members of the incoming class are selected using the most thorough honors admissions process in the nation. From more than 400 applications, only 150 students moved on to the interview process prior to the final selection.

Quebedeaux is a graduate of Acorn High School , and will be majoring in Chemistry at UCA. Jayden is a native of Mena.

Acceptance into the Schedler Honors College comes with supplemental scholarship funds worth over $26,000 over four years, access to a living-learning community in Jefferson W. Farris Honors Hall, and participation in a unique interdisciplinary curriculum with ample opportunities for service learning, project-based education, collaborative work, undergraduate research, study abroad, and internship support.

Founded in 1982 by Dr. Norbert O. Schedler, under President Jefferson Farris, the UCA Honors College has graduated nearly 2,000 students. Recognized nationwide as a model for its student-centered curriculum, the Honors College seeks to develop high-achieving students into citizen-scholars ready to guide socially responsible change.

DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER:

STATE TROOPERS JOINING IN STATEWIDE JULY 4th HOLIDAY IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT PLAN

Arkansas State Troopers will intensify their patrols across 16-thousand miles of Arkansas highway during the upcoming July 4th holiday. The stepped-up patrol presence by state troopers and local law enforcement authorities is part of a statewide Drive Sober or Get Pulled-Over enforcement operation supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Beginning as early as Friday (July 2nd), thousands of Arkansans will begin traveling to join friends and families celebrating the nation’s birthday. The unified presence of law enforcement officers across the state is intended to protect travelers from the deadly threat of drunk drivers.

“Our state troopers want everyone to celebrate and enjoy the Fourth of July holiday, but they want safe and sober drivers on the roads,” said Colonel Bill Bryant, Director of the Arkansas State Police and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “We’re constantly repeating the message, drunk driving is dangerous and deadly, yet, some drivers choose to ignore the warning,” Colonel Bryant said.

“The troopers won’t accept excuses, and if you’re caught drinking and driving, you’ll be arrested.”

NHTSA documented 10,142 people killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2019 that involved alcohol-impaired drivers. With Fourth of July festivities wrapping

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ENFORCEMENT continued from page 24 up later than usual this year, more vehicles will be on the roads at night.

Nighttime July 4th holiday crashes in 2019 claimed 515 lives between 6 PM – 5:59 AM. Thirty-eight percent (198) of those fatalities occurred in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes.

Drivers should remember if they’re caught by state troopers drinking and driving, they’ll be arrested. Driving under the influence of any substance is illegal and will likely result in a DWI

conviction.

The Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office advocates the idea of celebrating, but with good planning.

Have a designated sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.

If you don’t have a designated driver and you’ve been drinking, call a taxi or someone who is sober to drive you home.

If you know someone who is about to drive or operate a motorcycle or

any other vehicle while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.

Buckle up, always. Your seat belt is your best defense against the drunk driver.

Always call 9-1-1 if you see a drunk driver on the road.

This Fourth of July commit to driving 100-percent sober. Don’t lose your independence on Independence Day,

Community 25 and don’t be a deadly risk to yourself and other innocent people. Remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

For more information on impaired driving, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/ risky-driving/drunk-driving or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. For more on Arkansas’ ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities, visit www.TZDArkansas.org

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

PRIDE in the Park

Photos by Trey Youngdahl Above, Ouachita Collaborative Cultivators held a march led by Suzanne Margaret Snow around Janssen Park Saturday to recognize LGBTQ+ pride and representation in Polk County.

At right, Ouachita Collaborative Cultivators member and Pride in the Park organizer Valerian Flower Power giving a speech to participants.

Below, many march participants touted hand-made signs showcasing their love, support and pride.

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Attorney General Alert: Online Predators Don’t Take Off in the Summertime LITTLE ROCK – Oftentimes when Arkansans hear of sexual abuse of an individual viewing explicit images of a child, they are surprised that such behavior could happen in their own neighborhoods or homes. Many parents think something like this could never happen to their child because they monitor their child’s internet usage. Unfortunately, parents and family members could unknowingly be the ones giving pictures to cybercriminals.

“Even what seems to be the most innocent social media post celebrating a day with the family at the pool can unintentionally give pedophiles access to your children,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “As parents, we will do everything in our power to protect our kids, but sometimes we just don’t know how. I want to make sure every parent in the State knows how they can keep Arkansas children safe.”

Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips to all Arkansans to protect children from these online predators: Think twice about posting pictures of children or young family members online, especially photos of children that show a lot of skin. The Attorney General’s Cyber Crimes Unit is warning parents and loved ones that predators will sometimes harvest from social media sites and other online sources to find seemingly innocent photos taken by well-meaning parents of children in swimsuits, dance costumes, or even sports uniforms that are form-fitting or show skin for their own ill-intentioned plans, to trade, or sell for more explicit photographs.

Remember that status updates, photos and videos posted on social networks are permanent and once the user posts, it is out of their control, and you do not know where it will end up. Consider purchasing cell phone monitoring services from a phone provider to monitor children’s mobile devices.

Just as children are taught to use strong privacy settings, adults should use the strictest settings that are available to prevent unwanted individuals from seeing images of their children. For example, on Facebook, one of the available privacy settings requires explicit permission from the account holder before he or she can be tagged in a post or picture.

Monitor social media posts from friends to ensure photos are not posted of your loved ones that could be stolen by people with sinister motives and end up in the hands of a child predator. Many social media platforms allow users to submit complaints regarding problematic posts and to request deletion of posts.

Encourage children to tell an adult if there is ever a problem online. Photos, along with social media posts and texts are often used to break down young children’s inhibitions to make them more comfortable with the inappropriate behavior. Adults must remember, that if a child comes into contact with an online predator, it is not the child’s fault – the child is a victim.

Arkansans can report child exploitation by calling the National CyberTipline, (800) 843-5678, or visit CyberTipline.com, or in the event of an emergency, dial 911, or a local law enforcement agency. For more information to stay safe online and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

a n e M f o e g d ost Elkwys37L 4 Elks Lane 2 1 5 Ea

y a D e c n e d Indepen n o i t a r b e l e C ks H

Saturday Firewor ! k s u D y Jul at

4pm-10pm

By d e d i v o r P Music

y Playing a variet of the music you love!

ALL FREE! with the exception of food and drink purchases

Water SlideBouncy House Pie Eating Contest Hot Dog Eating Contest

BRING A BLANKET OR A LAWN CHAIR AND DON'T FORGET THE KIDS! Hamburger & Hotdog Meals, Snow Cones & Drinks will be available for purchase

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NIDEC Motor Corporation 500 N Morrow St, Mena AR

JOB OPPORTUNITIES ARE EXPLODING AT NIDEC IN MENA! Take Advantage of the Opportunity to Embark on a New Career Today

Nidec Motor Corporation is hiring for various positions in our Mena, Arkansas manufacturing facility.

Application process can be completed at:

DEPARTMENT OF WORKFORCE SERVICES 1100 College Drive, Mena, AR 71953 or by going to our career page at

HTTPS://NIDEC.WD1.MYWORKDAYJOBS.COM/NIDEC Nidec Motor Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer