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March 11, 2015
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Tigers Make School History
Governor Appoints Snead to Arkansas Forestry Commission
BY LEANN DILBECK Sam Snead of Mena has been appointed by Governor Asa Hutchinson to the Arkansas Forestry Commission. Snead replaces Jerry Davis. “I am looking forward to promoting a very important industry in Arkansas that adds significantly to the state and local economy and provides jobs. Anything that I can do to accomplish that objective… I would love CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Local 101 - Year Old Veteran Receives Hero’s Burial
BY MELANIE BUCK The story surrounding a local veteran’s life has many researching to insure the 101-year old is given a proper hero’s burial. Beasley Wood Funeral Home, of Mena, and Sergeant Arley Rivas, of the Military Funeral Honors for the Army National Guard in Ft. Chaffee, are trying to fit the pieces of Mr. Tidwell’s puzzle together. At his passing, little was known and his family gave instructions for a direct burial. But, as soon as it was learned that there was a possibility that Tidwell was a veteran, Beasley Wood began working diligently to research and confirm his service. As of CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Election Commission Approves May 12 Special Sales Tax Vote
PHOTO BY NORM BETZ • PULSE
The Acorn Tigers, led by Coach Mike Jackson, made school history advancing to the Final Four for the first time in school history. The team first defeated Wonderview in a nailbiting overtime match, 67-63. The history making continued as the Tigers defeated Western Grove in the Elite 8 game, 5843, on Saturday night to advance to the semifinals of the 1A State Tournament. READ COMPLETE 1A AND 3A STATE TOURNAMENT COVERAGE FOR TIGERS, LADY TIGERS, AND THE COSSATOT EAGLES ON PAGES 22-25.
BY MELANIE BUCK The Polk County Election Commission held a meeting on Tuesday, March 3, to begin planning for the upcoming Special Sales Tax Election for a new Polk County Jail. Polk County Clerk Terri Harrison said that all normal polling places will be used and early voting will be held at the Polk County Office Complex (the old hospital) on Pine Street in Mena. Early voting will start on Tuesday, May 5 and go through Monday, May 11. There will be no Saturday voting for this election. The Special Election will be held on Tuesday, May 12. Voters will vote to either approve or deny a levy of a ¼ cent Sales and Use CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 1020 MENA ST. MENA, AR 71953 | SINCE 1939
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Page 2
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
The Polk County Pulse & MyPulseNews.com
editor
A NOTE FROM THE
Remember those early days of learning to drive? You would drive by something that caught your attention… and you would focus on it… focus, focus, focus until you’re snapped out of it by your mother screaming your name because, just as you were merely admiring the neighbor mowing their lawn, you were suddenly veering off to it! It’s been said that wherever we focus our attention the most, that will become the driving force in our lives. Basically, we steer where we stare. Our lives are inundated on a daily, if not hourly, basis by distraction after distraction... people, situations, and every type lure imaginable. Which one do you focus on? Do you focus on all the ways you feel overlooked or done wrong? Or how mad it made you that someone else succeeded where you didn’t or maybe someone simply got your parking space in a crowded parking lot? Or are you able to see other’s needs before your own… someone else’s insecurities before your own… or celebrate someone else’s blessings… before your own. I’ve literally never lived anywhere else besides Mena so knowing other cultures in the world other than what I can read or hear about is not part of my make up but what I do see in our nation is a society that promotes narcissism as if it is healthy. Let us be clear – having a grandiose sense of self-importance coupled with a strong sense of entitlement (among other traits) is not healthy for any individual or the people surrounding them. Yes, it is very important to have a positive self-esteem but as with all things in life… a little moderation, please. We even have TV evangelists & preachers who promote this “all about self” behavior and that is by far the most frustrating because while all of today’s self-help guru’s seek to promote this way of thinking, please… oh please DO NOT do it in the name of Jesus Christ, who was the most selfless person to ever walk the face of this earth. Mark 10:45 – For even the Son of Man didn’t come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. He didn’t live as a king but as a servant – giving and giving and giving – right until the moment He drew His last breath. Narcissism many times, I believe, is a mask to help someone trying to overcome innate and deep-rooted insecurities. However, what I’m suggesting as being one of the most sure fire ways to help yourself feel better is to help someone… to serve someone. When you look around, you don’t have to look far to see need. Investing in or serving others in His eyes is indeed serving Him. 1 Peter 4:10 - Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. See no boundaries or limitations or try to find an equation of how much you think you should do or give because quite simply, you CAN NOT out-give God. When you stop focusing on yourself, He can open your eyes to a world that needs you. Not to work hard for your own personal gain, but for others eternal gain. When you do it for all the right reasons, His blessings upon you will overflow. Luke 6:38 - Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. All for His Glory -
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PHONE: 479-243-9600 FAX: 479-243-9603 1168 Hwy 71 South, Mena The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays with a distribution of 8,000 and estimated readership of 10,000. All rights to contents are reserved by D&L Publishing Co. MyPulseNews.com currently has an on-line audience of 31,000 giving us a combined readership of 39,000. POLICY: The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of D & L Publishing Co. & The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be pre-paid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Page 3
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Standerfer Recognized
BY MELANIE BUCK Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner was a special guest at the March meeting of Polk County Republicans. Riner was on hand to explain and answer questions regarding what he feels is an important issue, and one that he is responsible for jump-starting, House Bill 1376 [HB1376]. HB 1376 was filed by Arkansas State Representative Nate Bell in February among opposition from some in the medical field. If HB 1376 passes through the state’s Congress, it will clarify the term ‘person’ to include an unborn child in utero at any stage of development. The definition would not only change the law to apply assault and battery cases, but other cases as well. The current law is unclear as to what stage a fetus is considered a person, making it difficult to prosecute women who ingest drugs while pregnant. The bill was filed after Riner made a call to legislators to clarify the law after he prosecuted Melissa McCann-Arms in a landmark, first of its kind case in January 2014 for ingesting drugs while pregnant. McCann-Arms was convicted of one count of Introduction of a Controlled Substance into the Body of Another Person and was sentenced to 20 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Arms’ newborn baby was born at Mena Regional Health System addicted to methamphetamine. The landmark case was brought before Judge Phillip Whiteaker of the Arkansas Court of Appeals who concurred with Riner that in the case of McCann-Arms, it did include unborn children and affirmed the conviction based on the fact that her fluids continued to flow through the umbilical cord to the infant for a period after the child was born. The case has since moved on to the Arkansas Supreme Court. According to americanpregnancy.org, symptoms of methamphetamine-addicted babies include tremors, sleeplessness, muscle spasms, and feeding difficulties. Some experts believe that learning difficulties may result as the child gets older. Riner said in the Polk County Republican meeting on Monday, March 9, “This baby is born and he’s shaking from withdrawals but the nurses said that the worst thing is how addicted babies scream.” Riner said nurs-
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Local Republican Committee Applauds Efforts of Riner & Bell with HB 1376
NEWS
Mary Standerfer, Rich Mountain Community College’s Financial Aid Director, was recently named Outstanding Volunteer by the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund. In congratulating Standerfer, RMCC President Phillip Wilson said, “Mary is a great example of the tremendous support all RMCC people provide our students. She and people in her department work closely with the Polk County Single Parent Scholarship Fund – helping students apply for scholarships and helping single parents meet their goals. We appreciate the Single Parent Scholarship Fund’s recognition of the key role Mary plays in their recipients’ successes.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
NEWS
Election Commission
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
Tax on a permanent basis for the purpose of “an additional source of revenue to be used for one or more of the following: (a) to acquire, construct, improve, expand, equip, furnish, operate and maintain new or existing jail and law enforcement facilities, including any necessary land acquisition and utility, road and parking improvements related thereto or in support thereof and (b) to pay and secure the repayment of bonds approved by the voters and issued by the County from time to time to finance jail and law enforcement facilities and facilities related thereto or in support thereof (“Jail and Law Enforcement Bonds”). Voters will also vote on the question of issuing bonds for the purpose of financing all or a portion of the cost of new jail and law enforcement facilities; levying a new ¾ cent Sales and Use Tax for the purpose of retiring such bonds. The ¾ cent tax would be used for “a new jail, sheriff’s office, arraignment room, 911 dispatch center, and administrative offices related to law enforcement and any necessary land acquisition and utility, road and parking improvements related thereto and in support thereof.” The bonds would not exceed the voter-authorized amount of $10.9 million. Godfrey said it is a daily juggling process to manage the overcrowding issues and with a 6% inflation rate among construction costs and materials he said, “The longer we wait, the more it will cost to build a new jail.” If the proposal passes, Godfrey explained, “Then we will build it throughout the year so we can stop the overcrowding and start 2016 with a new jail.” Harrison also said that the Election Commission is still seeking additional help for the Vandervoort polling station and that interested persons should contact the County Clerk’s office at 479-394-8123.
BY MELANIE BUCK -
2015 Mena Polar Plunge Event will not be Rescheduled
Officials with the 2015 Polar Plunge event cancelled the event on February 28 due to icy road conditions and concern for everyone’s safety and have said they do not plan to reschedule. Donations raised through the event benefit Special Olympics Arkansas. A press release issued by Special Olympics Arkansas Area 14 said they, “appreciate the hard work and dedication of individuals that support the Mena Polar Plunge each year. At this time, due to other obligations and prior commitments on behalf of the Polk County Sheriff’s Department, they will not be able to reschedule the 2015 Mena Polar Plunge.” Polk County Sheriff Mike Godfrey has requested that all participants deliver their pledges and donations to Tammie Minton at the Sheriff’s Office or drop them off at Mena Middle School for Elizabeth Tompkins, Director, Special Olympics Arkansas Area 14. “I want to extend a special thank you to all of the supporters that helped us to fundraise for the 2015 Polar Plunge. While the weather prevented us from taking the icy leap, the funds raised will still provide trainings, uniforms, medals, and meals to our local athletes in their upcoming competitions. We could not do this without the Polk County Sheriff’s Department and the wonderful community support,” said Tompkins. The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Arkansas unites officers from law enforcement agencies and corrections departments across the state in an effort to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. The money raised for the Mena Polar Plunge will benefit 350 A lot has changed in banking over the years. But one thing has athletes that participate in Special Olympics Arkansas Area remained the same. The Union Bank of Mena is still Polk 14. Special Olympics Arkansas (SOAR) is a year-round sports County’s locally owned hometown bank. Your friends, your ganizations for children & adults with intellectual disabilities. They orneighbors, your bankers. Taking care of business and sports training and competition in twenty Olympic-type sports to more offer community. If your bank is changing, the Union Bank of than 14,000 athletes across the state. Athletes are never charged a fee to participate. As a 501(c)3 non-profit, SOAR relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and civic Mena would love to be your hometown bank. organizations for funding. For more information please contact Tammie Minton at 479-394-8163 or Elizabeth We’ll make it easy if you would Tompkins at 870-784-3822. like to switch banks. Come by
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Page 5
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Accident Brings Disaster to Local Family
NEWS
BY MICHAEL REISIG The Pulse recently did an article on Mena’s Kim Williams – the “roller-skating waitress” at The Skyline Café. The article was extremely popular and it made Williams somewhat of a star in the area for a short time, and she has enjoyed the notoriety. But recently, on February 21, disaster struck Williams’ family when her husband, Lynn Williams, was seriously injured in an automobile accident in the Potter/Shadow Mountain area, while returning home after dropping his wife off for work. Lynn Williams will survive, but he suffered multiple injuries, including broken bones in his hip, legs, hands, and ribcage. Like any number of families dealing with today’s difficult economy and the nation’s confusing national insurance program, the Williams family was unprepared financially for this calamity, and they face mounting medical bills as well as a difficult and prolonged recovery. For those of you who know Kim personally, and those of you who have enjoyed her humor and her fine service at the Skyline Café, now is an excellent time to count your own blessings and offer a little help to the Williams family. You can stop by the café and drop off a donation, or you can go to the internet “gofundme.com” website and make donations to the Williams family there. “We really appreciate all the help and the prayers,” said Kim. “I’m very grateful to this wonderful community, and I’m reminded once again why we live in Polk County.”
HB 1376
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
Polk County Sheriff’s Office
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es have described heartbreaking sounds of horror when talking about the screams that come from drug-addicted babies. Since the affirmation of McCann-Arms’ conviction by Judge Whiteaker, Riner has filed charges in a similar case. Jessica Fox was arrested on Monday, February 2, 2015 for two counts of Introduction of Controlled Substance into the Body of Another Person. Fox gave birth to a child on October 17, 2013, which tested positive for four different drugs: methamphetamine, amphetamine, opiates, and Oxycodone. Fox tested positive for the same drugs with exception to opiates. Although the road is now paved for prosecutors to pursue what many claim is becoming an all too common occurrence, it is expected to be met with opposition from the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics who argue that laws that criminalize drug addiction in pregnant women steer them from pursuing prenatal care or drug rehabilitation. Riner stated that Bell has met that opposition but it hasn’t deterred him from working hard to ensure passage of the bill. Attorney John Maddox spoke highly of Riner
Page 6
NEWS
March 11, 2015
Acorn High School’s Junior Quiz Bowl Wins State SUBMITTED BY SHANNON LYLE
Acorn High School’s Junior Quiz Bowl team took first place in the 1A State Quiz Bowl Tournament held February 28, at Nemo Vista High School. Weather and scheduling conflicts left the Tigers with just two of their four players to begin the tournament. In the morning seeding rounds, the Tigers won games against Kirby and Southside before falling to a very determined Caddo Hills. In the afternoon elimination rounds, with all of their players then present, the Tigers redeemed themselves by beating Caddo Hills in the first game. The semifinals put them against defending champions Lisa Academy-North. After a very tough, back-and-forth game, the Tigers emerged with a close victory. In the finals, Acorn defeated perennial contender Ridgefield Christian to bring home their first state quiz bowl title. Team captain Zane Barr was the tournament’s Most Valuable Player with a scoring average of 138 points per game. Other team members include Bridgette Magness, Sam Duvall, and Nick Fairless. The team is coached by Mr. Michael Barr.
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: SAM DUVALL, ZANE BARR, BRIDGETTE MAGNESS, AND NICK FAIRLESS.
Weekly Publication Arkansas Highway Transportation Department (AHTD) crews are working diligently to repair the numerous potholes that have played havoc on drivers and their vehicles in the last few weeks. Rain, snow, and ice have each played their part in the destruction of roadways, as well as snow plows that clear the path in an effort to keep the county mobile. AHTD workers said they have filled some of the holes more than once in the last week but rain continues to wash their efforts away, such as the one pictured at the intersection of Hwy. 71 and Mena Street. Seeking better weather, crews are hopeful to have the repairs done soon.
Page 7 Weekly Publication
March 11, 2015
RMCC Hosts Linda Palmer for Champion Trees Presentation
Double-Nickel Club Purchases Drawing of Mena’s Own Champion Tree
Tommy Young and AJ Sterner-Arceneaux are shown releasing a hawk at the Visitor’s Center at the base of Rich Mountain. The rehabilitation of the injured hawk was sponsored by AJ and his grandmother, Ginger Sterner. Young has made it his life’s work to care for injured animals and release them back into the wild. He is the only legal predatory bird rehabilitator for several counties wide in any direction. Young runs the Arkansas Native Plant and Wildlife Center where he keeps animals throughout their rehabilitation. If you would like to support Young and his efforts, contact him at the Center, 479-437-3750.
NEWS
BY MELANIE BUCK
Rich Mountain Community College hosted artist Linda Williams Palmer in the Ouachita Center on Monday, March 2, for her Champion Trees presentation and drawing debut. Not only did Palmer give a presentation of her Champion Trees collection, Kathy Adams’ 55 and older classes from RMCC purchased Palmer’s drawing of Mena’s own Champion Tree. Linda Williams Palmer began her visual arts career in 1980 by studying with Don Lee and Pete Howard at the Westark Community College, now the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. With an Associate Degree already in hand, she immersed herself in drawing and painting classes while raising a family, and did so for five years, ending her research with a Special Projects class on “The Landscape.” From 1985, Palmer directed her focus on establishing her visual arts career. She opened a studio and The Linda Palmer Gallery in Fort Smith, created multiple series of work, entered and was selected for numerous competitions, and was publicly and CONCLUSION ON PAGE 9
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March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
101-Year Old Veteran
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
NEWS
press time, efforts continue but here is what has been confirmed to date. Bradley Tidwell of Mena was born in Ben Aqua, Tennessee in 1914 and he served in the United States Navy. Tidwell’s only surviving family members are a few nieces and nephews from Tennessee who made arrangements for his direct burial before returning home. Tidwell’s burial was originally set for an earlier date; however, after the cemetery caretaker had trouble finding Mr. Tidwell’s wife’s plot, whom he was to be buried alongside, the services were postponed. In the meantime, it was discovered that he was a veteran. It was at that point that Beasley Wood began the search for his military records. Contacting the local VFW and in conjunction with Sgt. Rivas, military funeral honors have been planned for Wednesday, March 11, at 10 a.m. in the Beasley Wood Chapel, followed by a private burial in Rocky Cemetery. It is believed that Tidwell also served in the United States Army in addition to the Navy. They are continuing the research to see how long Mr. Tidwell served or if he had served in any wars. Sgt. Rivas said that normal protocol is to call Ft. Sill to request records. However, the records were not located there so Rivas has since requested the records from St. Louis where archived records are kept. Rivas said it has been difficult to locate Tidwell’s records due to how long ago it was that he served. Being 101-years old, it’s likely that his records are more than 80 years old. The performance of military funeral honors for an eligible veteran is free of charge and is mandated by law. An honor guard for the burial of an eligible veteran consists of at least two members of the Armed Forces. One member is a representative of the service branch of the deceased veteran who presents the flag. The honor detail will, at a minimum, perform a ceremony that includes the folding and presenting of the American flag to the next of kin and the playing of Taps. Sergeant Brandon House of the local National Guard said that word has gotten out to many servicemen and women who plan to attend Mr. Tidwell’s service.
Snead
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
to maximize its potential,” Snead told The Pulse on his appointment. He explained that Arkansas is one of the biggest timber producers in the nation. Snead is a local tree farmer and is no stranger to the timber industry. His grandfather, Dale Rodgers, owned and operated the Dale Rodgers Lumber Company until 1993, for almost 5 decades. Rodgers also served on the Arkansas Forestry Commission in the 1970’s. Snead is a 1992 Mena High School graduate. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hendrix College as well as a law degree from the University of Arkansas School of Law. Snead’s term expires in 2024.
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Page 9
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Palmer
(CONT. FROM PAGE 7)
NEWS
privately collected. She moved to Hot Springs in 1991, has since opened the Linda Palmer Gallery. Palmer’s latest series, Arkansas Champion Trees: an Artist’s Journey, began in 2007 when she viewed the online list of the largest and oldest examples of each species of tree determined by Arkansas foresters. The Champion series has entailed over 5,000 miles of travel across the state, accompanying documentary photography, and research into the history and science of the trees. Part of her journey has been to share her knowledge and artistic expertise with arts groups and institutions, and via educational programs sponsored by the Arkansas Forestry Commission. RMCC said they were honored to host Palmer for her presentation and the debut of her latest drawing of a champion tree from Mena. The tree is the largest water oak in the state of Arkansas and is located on the old Myrick homestead, which now belongs to Dr. Robert Manis and wife, Suzanne. The homestead belonged to the grandparents of none other than T. Texas Tyler, the first country western singer to perform in Carnegie Hall in New York City whose origins began here. The tree has withstood countless tornadoes, straight-line winds, floods, and ice storms, to maintain its glory. It even withstood the Manis’ children when they spent hours climbing up and down the trunk to their treehouse that was perched in the limbs. Since 1940, the National Big Tree Program’s goal has been to, “to preserve and promote the iconic stature of these living monarchs and educate people about the key role that these remarkable trees and forests play in sustaining a healthy environment.” There are more than 750 trees listed on the national list; Arkansas has over 130 on the state list. The Arkansas Champion Tree program is the subject of a documentary on AETN. “Champion Trees” is a one-hour original documentary that explores these natural wonders and how they influence and inspire the people around them.” The documentary has won two Emmys, Best Cultural Documentary and Best Cinematography, among other highly acclaimed awards. Palmer, who is included in the documentary said, “These trees have witnessed the history of our state, along with the histories of the families and people that lived around them. Arkansas has such natural beauty and our trees are an important part of our heritage. My desire is to celebrate this beauty with my art.” The Manis’ tree was the focus of a field trip of RMCC’s history classes for 55 and older students. Instructor Kathy Adams said the classes have 135 students who are focusing on the history of the Ouachitas and Ozarks. The 55 and older students are known as the ‘double-nickel club’ who all donated money to purchase Palmer’s drawing of the T. Texas Tyler tree. The drawing will hang in the Ouachita Center for all to enjoy.
SUBMITTED BY RON ANDERLE A momentous occasion occurred in Bentonville on Saturday, January 24th when Zachary Anderle became a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus making him a fourth generation member. Pictured L-R are: Ron Anderle of Mena, Leroy Anderle of Scotland Tx, Roy Anderle and Zachary Anderle both of Mena. Leroy has 37 years as a Fourth Degree Knight, Roy has served 29 years, and Ron has served 15 years. These Anderle men are also all first-born sons.
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Page 10
OBITUARIES
March 11, 2015 MYRON NELSON LANCE
Myron Nelson Lance, age 62, of Mena passed away March 3, 2015 in Mena, Arkansas. He was born May 15, 1952, and raised in the Shady Grove community, to the late Joseph Nelson Lance and the late Ardie Lee Davis. He graduated from Mena High School then went to work for Dix Foundry, and also worked for the forestry service. Mr. Lance also worked for Bob Gordon’s livestock barn, Lane Poultry, Renova, U.S. Motors, Tyson at Waldron and he presently was employed at Wal-Mart Super Store in Mena. He enjoyed bow hunting and raising cattle and was an avid fan of Jeopardy. He was a loving and kind brother, uncle, and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed by all. He is survived by sisters, Marilyn Krepps and husband Marvin, of Ponca City, Oklahoma, Inez Foster of Dickinson, Texas, Susan Lance of Mena, Arkansas; nieces and nephews, Linda Foster of LaMarque, Texas, Shannon Fernandisse of League City, Texas, Yvone Powers of Keller, Texas, Melissa Krepps of Tampa, Florida, Paul Wehba of Ft. Worth, Texas, Matt Krepps of Boston Massachusetts, Will Foster of Houston, Texas; great-nieces, Kim Foster and Destiny Fernandisse of League City, Texas, Megan Powers of Keller, Texas, Taylor Krepps of Boston, Massachusetts; great-nephew, Tyler Powers of Keller, Texas; great-great nephew, Raymond Burnett of League City, Texas; numerous cousins and relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Ardie Lance, and a sister, Carolyn Lance Wehba. Funeral service was Saturday, March 7, 2015, 10:00 a.m. at Beasley Wood Chapel with Brother Dino Winegarten officiating. Interment followed in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the di-
Weekly Publication rection of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Pallbearers were Will Stricklin, Harold Dean Davis, Gene Lance, Wayne Lance, Otis Bissell, and Jordan Strickland.
CLIFFORD DERAMUS Clifford Deramus went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 7, 2015 in Mena, Arkansas surrounded by his family. Clifford was born April 20, 1928, and was 1 of 10 children, born and raised in Highland on a farm that has been in the family for many years. He was the youngest and last surviving child of Emmit Jacob Deramus and Mary Ella Ryals Deramus. He was married to Dorothy Mae Tice Deramus (on August 1, 1949 in a barber shop in Mena) for 63 years, until her passing in 2013. He was baptized on June 6, 1976 becoming a member of the Cherry Hill Methodist Church. He also was a member and served on the Cherry Hill Cemetery Association for several years. Clifford lived his life as a testimony to his strong faith and love for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a really good man who always had a hug to give, a hand to shake, a good sense of humor, a genuine smile, a generous heart, and was always willing to help. Clifford was a people person and enjoyed everyone, especially family. He loved to attend the annual Deramus reunion held at the park in Mena. He cared about people like a true servant and was blessed to have so many family, friends, and neighbors. He had words of wisdom well beyond his 4th grade education. His faith and love of God carried him throughout his life. He loved to garden and was always willing to share his secret to raising a big vegetable garden. He worked for several years in California and Arkansas in the logging industry. Clifford and Dorothy had a cattle and broiler farm at Opal for many years. Clifford was preceded in death by his
parents; his wife, Dorothy Mae Tice Deramus; one son, James Eddie (Jimmy) Deramus; seven brothers, Emmitt, Wilton, Horace, Arvin, Millard, James Elmer (Nub), and Glen Deramus; and two sisters, Bertha Melton and Cynthia Hill. He leaves behind his four daughters, Connie Hendrix and husband Wesley of Mena, Shirley Wharton and husband Terrell of Moore, Oklahoma, Susan Boyd and husband Curt of Mena, Sally Arocha and husband Jerry of Sherwood, Arkansas; one daughter-in-law, Wanda Deramus. Ten grandchildren, Cheryl Boyd and husband Andy, Tony Deramus and wife Melinda, Stacey Cole, Misty Howard, Cody Bates and wife Christina, Kelly Schuerch and husband David, Carrie Pennington and husband Tony, Ryan Boyd and wife Krystal, Christina and Amanda Arocha. Sixteen great-grandchildren, Kyle Daniels and wife Jessica, Jonathan Daniels and wife Lisa, Bradley, Brandon, Jacob, and Gracie Deramus, Alyssa, Hana, Alex, and Jonathan Schuerch, Naomi, Emme, and Ellis Bates, Michelle Pennington, Levi and Kash Boyd. Three great-great-grandchildren, Kenzie, Josie, and Anna Bell Daniels, numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends. Clifford has spread his wings, joining his wife, son and other family members and he is smiling down on his family as he waits on them to join him in all the beauty that awaits us. Funeral services will be Wednesday, March 11, 2015, 2:00 p.m. at Cherry Hill Methodist Church with Brother Roger Bishop and Brother Dennis Philpot officiating. Interment will follow in the Cherry Hill Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation was Tuesday, March 10, 2015 from 6:008:00 p.m. Pallbearers will be Wesley Hendrix, Terrell Wharton, Curt Boyd, Jerry Arocha, Ryan Boyd, Tony Deramus, Kyle Daniels, and Jonathan Daniels. Honorary pallbearers will be Cody Bates, Bradley, Brandon, and Jacob Deramus.
HUBERT F. COX Hubert F. Cox, age 89, of Mena, passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2015 in Mena, Arkansas. He was born May 3, 1925 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Henry Marion Cox and the late Mamie Gertrude Solidine Cox. He was married to Gertrude Whisenhunt Cox for 68 happy years. Mr. Cox served his country in the Army during World War II. He owned and operated a service station for 46 years. He was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to all who knew him. He will be dearly missed by all He is survived by wife, Gertrude Cox of the home; sons, Garry Cox and wife Chris of Mena, Arkansas, James Cox and wife Brenda of Mena, Arkansas; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Archie Cox, Pete Cox and Olen Cox; and sisters, Mary Moore and Irene Smith. Graveside service was Monday, March 9, 2015, 2:00 p.m. at Rock Springs Cemetery at Posey Hollow, Arkansas with Brother Danny Minton officiating under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
ROSIE PARKER Rosie Parker, age 83, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2015 in Mena, Arkansas. She was born January 3, 1932 in Wamego, Kansas to the late John Bechtel and the late Clara Weixelman Bechtel. She was happily married to the late Harold Gene Parker for 49 years. Rosie loved her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her cats. She was a loving and kind mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by all. She is survived by daughter, Linda Rowe and husband Dennis of Mena, Arkansas; grandchildren, Landon Rowe and wife Katrina of Mena, Arkansas, CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
CORA M. SADLER Cora M. Sadler, age 75, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, March 7, 2015 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born June 21, 1939 in Mena, Arkansas to the late Ben Brown and the late Opal Thompson Brown. She was united in marriage on February 27, 1960 in Mena, Arkansas to Nilon E. “Gene” Sadler. Miss Cora was a childcare provider to many of the children in the area and enjoyed scrapbooking and gardening. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Miss Cora will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Survivors are children, Jeanice Campbell of Mena, Arkansas, Ben Sadler and wife Angela of Sedalia, Missouri, Daron Sadler and wife Brenda of Searcy, Arkansas; sisters, Mary Ann Brown of Mena, Arkansas, Ruby Boyette of North Carolina; brother, Benny
Brown of Alma, Arkansas; 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Opal Brown; her husband, Gene Sadler; a sister, Wanda Brown; and 2 brothers, Jerry and John Brown. Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 12, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Wayne Fussell officiating. Interment follows in Nunley Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, March 11th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Joshua Wright, Kyle Campbell, Benjamin Sadler, Timothy Sadler, Adam Dickson and Michael Jones. Honorary Pallbearers will be Miss Cora’s Daycare Kids. Online obituary available at www. beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Frances M. Steinberg Frances M. Steinberg, age 90, of Mena, passed away Friday, February 27, 2015 at Mena Regional Health System. She was born in Wiccopee, New York on May 8, 1924 to the late Lewis A. Mekeel and Maude Taylor Mekeel. She met her husband-to-be in the Fishkill Drum Corp at the age of 16. He joined the Army and fought in World War II and they corresponded for five years. Upon his return, they were engaged and were married in 1947. She was a wonderful homemaker and very devoted to her husband and three children. After her children were grown, she worked part-time at a Hallmark card store. She was a very classy lady, always cheerful,
never judgmental and family meant everything to her. Our hearts are broken with her passing, but she is with those who are already with our Savior. She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Albert B. Steinberg; and her son, Allan M. Steinberg. She is survived by son, Barry B. Steinberg of Greenville, PA; daughter, Caren and Bob Brewer Jr., of Hatfield, Arkansas; grandson, Adam and Ashley Steinberg of Rhode Island; granddaughter, Leah Warner of Scottsdale, Arizona; sisters, Beatrice Gurdineer of Montrose, New York, Charlotte R. Mekeel of Lanscaster, PA; and also her constant canine companion, Pita. Mrs. Steinberg was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. A memorial will be held at a later date.
Ilene Blackwell Hensley Ilene Blackwell Hensley went to be with the Lord on March 3, 2015 at the age of 96 in Mena, Arkansas. She was born at Octavia, Oklahoma on November 5, 1918 to Jim and Beulah Blackwell. She married her high school sweetheart, Hoyt Hensley, November 1, 1937. She lived at Octavia, Oklahoma most of her life, was of the Baptist faith, loved singing and enjoyed crocheting, making quilts, gardening and canning. She loved babies and helped with the grandkids, great-grandkids and children of friends. She was preceded in death by an infant daughter; her parents, Jim and Beulah Blackwell; her husband, Hoyt Hensley; a brother, Bob Blackwell; a daughter, Ellen Enlow; her husband Clyde; and a great grandson, Caleb Hoyt Enlow.
She is survived by a son, Glen Hensley and wife Ellen of Octavia, Oklahoma; brother, Horace Blackwell and wife Darlene of Modesto, California; sister-in-law, Georgia Blackwell of Octavia, Oklahoma; and 6 grandchildren, Dennis Hensley and wife Vicki of Heavener, Oklahoma, Will Hensley and wife Judy of Bethel, Oklahoma, Todd Enlow and wife Lori of Tuba City, Arizona, Shea Bowling and husband Dave of Glenpool, Oklahoma, Eric Enlow and wife Shanna of Keys, Oklahoma and Scott Enlow and wife Deon of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. 18 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, 3-great-great-step-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. Her work outside the home was to help others when needed. When asked what she did, she would reply, “just a homemaker.” She is partly responsible for a mixture of professions in medical, education, business, law enforcement, a soldier, heavy equipment operators, farmers, ranchers, and more to come. She has outlived most of her peers but a few are left to cherish her memory. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 7, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Octavia Baptist Church with Brother Ed Rogers and Brother John King officiating. Interment followed in Octavia Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation was general. Pallbearers were Dennis Hensley, Will Hensley, Todd Enlow, Scott Enlow, Eric Enlow, and Dave Bowling. Honorary pallbearers were Reese Hensley, Chance Hensley, Gavin Enlow, Joshua Bowling, Noah Enlow, and Dewayne Anna.
Obituaries are available online @ Mypulsenews.com
OBITUARIES
Sarah Gibson and husband Frank of Mena, Arkansas; great-grandchildren, Katie and Kilee Rowe of Mena, Arkansas, Joshua Gibson of Mena, Arkansas; son, David Parker and wife Chris of Mena, Arkansas; granddaughter, Jessica Daniels and husband Kyle of Mena, Arkansas; great-granddaughter, Annabelle Daniels of Mena, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold Gene Parker; and a half-sister. Memorial service was Tuesday, March 10, 2015, 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Father Josh Stengel as Celebrant under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Polk County Humane Society or Polk County Library.
Page 12
AT THE CAPITOL
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Prison Reform Plan in Hands of House
BY STATE SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE LITTLE ROCK – The Senate approved legislation to implement the governor’s ambitious prison reform plan. It’s now in the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 472 embodies much of the governor’s proposals to relieve prison overcrowding. It authorizes the state Correction Department to contract with counties, the federal government and other states to house Arkansas inmates. Already the Board of Correction has approved a contract with a privately-operated prison in Bowie County, Texas, to house 228 inmates for $36 per inmate per day, plus $2.42 a day per inmate for medical coverage. The governor proposes to expand specialty courts, such as drug courts, and SB 472 sets up a task force of criminal justice professionals to make a thorough evaluation of the effectiveness of the drug courts now in operation. Members of the task force will not be paid. SB 472 creates a “pay for success” program authorizing the Department of Community Correction to contract with private organizations such as halfway houses, job placement companies, faith-based organizations and rehabilitation facilities. Private organizations would receive financial bonuses if they lower recidivism rates of inmates under their care. Also, SB 472 would expand “re-entry” programs to better prepare inmates for productive lives outside of prison. They would be taught job skills and coping skills, such as anger management. A significant innovation in SB 472 is its emphasis on treatment of drug abuse and mental illness. It directs prison officials to make sure all inmates have applied for Medicaid, which would pay for treatment. The bill authorizes the Human Services Department to accept Medicaid applications from inmates over the Internet. Also last week, the Senate Education Committee advanced legislation to change eligibility criteria for lottery scholarships. Senate Bill 5 would improve the lottery’s cash flow by changing how scholarships are awarded. Now, college students who qualify get $2,000 their freshman year and $3,000 their sophomore year. SB 5 would award freshmen $1,000 and sophomores $4,000. It would not change scholarship awards to juniors and seniors, which would remain at $4,000 and $5,000. A controversial provision of SB 5 would significantly change eligibility requirements for high school graduates. Now, they can qualify by graduating with a 2.5 grade point average on a scale of 1 to 4, on which 4 is an A, 3 is a B and 2 is a C. Students also qualify by scoring 19 on the ACT, a national standardized test used for college admissions. Under SB 5, maintaining a 2.5 GPA in high school would no longer make a high school graduate eligible for a lottery scholarship. This provision in SB 5 levels the playing field between public and private schools, because private school students cannot qualify with a 2.5 GPA, they must score a 19 on the ACT. Snow Days Two new laws enacted this session will give school districts more flexibility in making up snow days. Act 143 allows superintendents to open at 10 a.m. or close at 1 p.m., up to five times a school year, without having to make up the entire day. Act 286 allows school districts to make up snow days in increments of 60 minutes at a time, and it takes effect immediately. That allows schools to add an hour to two at the end of the regular school days between now and June.
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BY STAte REPRESENTATIVE NATE BELL We’re in the last few weeks of the 2015 legislative session and several of the bills I’ve filed or presented during this session are now law. Act 21 permits ADE to grant waivers for Governor’s scholars under certain conditions. I filed this bill after learning that a young man from Mena faced losing his scholarship due to a religious commitment. http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assemb…/…/2015R/Acts/ Act21.pdf Act 159 restricts county clerks from personally benefitting from judicially ordered sales of real or personal property. I filed this bill at the request of Polk County Clerk Terri Harrison. http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assem…/…/2015R/Acts/Act159.pdf Act 102 protects the rights of public employees to exercise their rights under the Freedom of Information Act without retribution. I filed this bill after learning of negative employment actions against a state employee who requested documents under FOIA. http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assem…/…/2015R/Acts/Act102.pdf Act 103 renames the Arkansas Geographic Information Office to Arkansas Geographic Information Systems. I filed this bill at the request of the agency to make their name more clearly indicate their mission. http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assem…/…/2015R/ Acts/Act103.pdf Act 163 clarifies the law permitting sheriff’s to charge a reasonable fee for non-criminal fingerprinting. I filed this bill at the request of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Previous law was unclear on this and there was no consistent policy when audits were conducted. http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assem…/…/2015R/Acts/Act163.pdf HB1269 is on the Governor’s desk awaiting his signature. It will establish a standard form for collection of independent candidate petition signatures and require that they be certified as legally collected by the petition gatherer. I filed this bill after encountering multiple situations involving illegally collected petition signatures. http://www.arkleg.state. ar.us/…/2015R/Pages/BillInformation… Act 306 establishes the University of Arkansas E-Versity. This law permits the University of Arkansas to move forward with a fully online program designed to assist degree completion in adult learners with some prior college. I believe this will greatly improve access to high quality learning for those of us who are geographically isolated from most opportunities to earn bachelors degrees. http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/assem…/…/2015R/Acts/Act306.pdf Several of my other bills have passed committees or have passed out of the House and are awaiting Senate action. They include HB1006-The Compact for a Balanced Budget, HB1087 which will remove the law barring employees and employers from being “friends” on social media, HB1381 addressing home school testing, HB1610 addressing unopposed elections and HR1023 honoring Arkansas 4-H. I have filed several bills designed to increase election turnout, reduce regulations and combine state agencies, boards and commissions. Those bills continue to move through the legislative process and I’m hopeful that they will soon become law. You can see the complete list of bills I have sponsored at http://www.arkleg.state. ar.us/assembly/2015/2015R/Pages/MemberProfile.aspx?member=Bell. I appreciate the opportunity to represent you in Little Rock and I do my best to respond to all constituent contact. It is extremely difficult for me to take phone calls during the legislative session as I am in meetings most of the day and night. The most reliable way to contact me during the session is to send email to nate.bell@arkansashouse.org.
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Page 13 Weekly Publication
Indifference, Ignorance, and Mayhem
March 11, 2015
OPINION
BY MICHEAL REISIG The nations on this planet are constantly in motion – like moons around a planet. Some are rising and some are declining. The elements that determine the momentum and transformation of societies are not always intellect, faith, or even compassion. Sometimes, at a certain point, one of the most influential elements becomes indifference. And sometimes indifference can do as much damage as enmity and violence. Indifference is subtly powerful – it makes everything it touches meaningless. Truth, honesty, values, don’t stand a chance against it. It abides with the sociopath, it loves neutrality, it welcomes silence. Indifference aids the oppressor – it never helps the oppressed. The opposite of love is not hate – it’s indifference. The opposite of faith is not just heresy, but apathy. The opposite of pride is not weakness – it’s negligence. When schools begin to openly practice apathy, when history is whittled down to a toothpick of insignificance, when the daily news is reduced to pabulum, there can be no growth in any of that infertile soil. Ignorance is another keystone in the failure of societies. The ultimate ignorance is rejecting something you know nothing about, but refusing to investigate – we constantly do this with religion and politics. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.” I love that quote. The world (or a nation) becomes a dangerous place when people who recognize evil don’t do anything about it (because responding might get in the way of their monthly check, or their prestigious position.) The ultimate insult to mankind is not the absence of intelligence, but the refusal to acquire it. There are times, when talking about America with peoDear Editor, ple, that I suddenly become aware I am simply no match for their avid incomprehension. There’s nothing more dangerous than a self-imposed stupidity. On this subject I will Once again, Rep. Nate Bell embarrasses West Central Arkansas with his leave you with a quote by the poet, Khalil Gibran: “I wash my hands of those who imagine ignorant, reprehensible, and tasteless comments. Last week, Bell verbally atchattering to be knowledge, silence to be ignorance, and thoughtless spontaneity to be art.” tacked Benji Hardy of the Arkansas Times regarding an unreleased report, Mayhem is the third element. When we’ve burned past indifference and ignorance, and we’re running meaning that nobody—including Bell—had actually read about the scandal solely in survival mode – when there are no more checks in the mail, no more burgers at McDonalds, and no of Rep. Justin Harris and the so called “rehoming,” or giving away of his more Hershey’s bars at the 7/11, we’re at the cusp of mayhem. adopted daughters to another family, where one of the girls was later sexually Ultimately, mayhem is not an action, but a reaction. Mayhem is what happens when ignorance is conabused. sidered acceptable for too long, and conscience has slid off the kitchen table into a pool of indifference on Bell texts Hardy and says: the cracked and stained floor. Mayhem is what’s left when religion has been banned, education has been “Hell has a special corner for the merciless. You’re headed there. Invest dummied down into indoctrination, politicians have become dictators, and the only gods left are greed and in asbestos.” survival. Condemnation to Hell? Invest in asbestos? Asbestos, which is known both Indifference, Ignorance, and Mayhem – these are the three horsemen of calamity… for being fireproof and for causing cancer. It sounds to me that Nate was The views and opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions suggesting to Hardy to get cancer and go to Hell. He could have suggested of the ownership and staff of The Polk County Pulse. Michael Reisig is a freelance writer and published a fire suit or another fire-suppressing material if he was meaning for him to author whose works are reproduced throughout the globe.
have fire protection. These are definitely not words that Ode Maddox, Steve Oglesby, or Bill Abernathy would have dared said or thought of in a million years, even to their worst of enemies. Rather, those men worked hard, provided opportunities, and got things done for the people of West Central Arkansas, instead of engaging in senseless vitriol on social media or grandstanding and self-promotion. Ode Maddox served us for forty-two years and was the one who fought to build RMCC. Steve Oglesby worked hard and got the Veteran’s clinic and the Senior Centers in Mena and Wickes built. More recently, Bill Abernathy served as chairman of the education committee and ranked as high as second in seniority among the 100 members of the House. The question remains: what has Nate done for us as State Representative? The answer to that is NOTHING, except embarrassing us with his comments on social media regarding Bostonians as cowards and quoting Hitler, all while collecting the highest reimbursement in the state last year ($62,902), which is significantly higher than other legislators who live similar distances from the capitol. In short, we need leaders who are a shining light and who represent what is great about West Central Arkansas, not demagogues who grandstand on issues solely for self-promotion. Chase Busch Mena, AR Letters to the Editor Policy - The Polk County Pulse reserves all rights to reject submissions. Anonymous letters are not permitted. All letters to the editor must be signed, include author’s town of residence, and be free of the threat of libel. Letters must be 300 words or less. We prefer they stay in the bounds of sensibility and good taste. We reserve the right to authenticate letters before publishing.
Cotton and 46 Fellow Senators to Send Open Letter to the Leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran
Washington, D.C.— Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) along with 46 of his Republican colleagues in the Senate will today release an open letter to Leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran about the ongoing nuclear negotiations between their country and the United States. A PDF of the official letter will be available on Cotton. Senate.Gov later this morning. The text of the letter can be found below: An Open Letter to the Leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran: It has come to our attention while observing your nuclear negotiations with our government that you may not fully understand our constitutional system. Thus, we are writing to bring to your attention two features of our Constitution—the power to make binding international agreements and the different character of federal offices—which you should seriously consider as negotiations progress. First, under our Constitution, while the president negotiates international agreements, Congress plays the significant role of ratifying them. In the case of a treaty, the Senate must ratify it by a two-thirds vote. A so-called congressional-executive agreement requires a majority vote in both the House and the Senate (which, because of procedural rules, effectively means a three-fifths vote in the Senate). Anything not approved by Congress is a mere executive agreement. Second, the offices of our Constitution have different characteristics. For example, the president may serve only two 4-year terms, whereas senators may serve an unlimited number of 6-year terms. As applied today, for instance, President Obama will leave office in January 2017, while most of us will remain in office well beyond then—perhaps decades. What these two constitutional provisions mean is that we will consider any agreement regarding your nuclearweapons program that is not approved by the Congress as nothing more than an executive agreement between President Obama and Ayatollah Khamenei. The next president could revoke such an executive agreement with the stroke of a pen and future Congresses could modify the terms of the agreement at any time. We hope this letter enriches your knowledge of our constitutional system and promotes mutual understanding and clarity as nuclear negotiations progress.
Page 14
CITIZEN
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Pete Johnson - A Heart of Gold
BY JACLYN ROSE One of the things that makes small town communities great are the people, those who are willing to contribute their time, knowledge and resources to improve society. In many instances, individuals give what they can amongst their other obligations, and on rare occasions, someone comes along who gives on an even greater scale. Pete Johnson is one who has given his entire career to improving the lives of Polk County citizens, and even in his retirement, continues his dedicated service. Johnson moved to Mena in 1965 at the age of 17. Soon after he enrolled in college at Arkansas Tech University but then took some time off to enlist in the Army National Guard. After completing basic training and advanced individual training (AIT) he went on to complete his degree in History and Political Science from Henderson State University. In 1969, Johnson married Linda, the love of his life. “Linda and I like each other in addition to loving each other. We have the same ideas about our faith and Christianity and what we ought to do with our lives and that really helped bond us in our marriage. We have two children, Emily and Lori, and four grandchildren who are great fun,” explained Johnson. Johnson began his career with the Department of Human Services (DHS) in 1971, where he would continue to work for the next 38 years before retiring four years ago. “I started out as a case worker in Prescott, in south Arkansas for two years before transferring to Polk County as a case worker. After a year and a half the department was reorganized and transferred to Fort Smith, where we spent almost seven years. In 1980, I came back to Polk County as a County Director. Here I supervised everything from the assistance programs to child welfare, abused and neglected children, and helped with the foster program. In 1986, the department was reorganized again and I continued to supervise public assistance but no longer the child welfare program,” explained Johnson. Through the years, Johnson saw many different programs come and go and through these programs saw a lot of success for local individuals seeking to better themselves and their situations. “Late 90’s welfare reform provided an array of services for people who wanted to become self-sufficient. Additionally, Rich Mountain Community College was a wonderful resource for local citizens. There were times that I was able to hire employment specialists to work with local employers to put people to work. There was a lot of success with some of these programs but like lots of government funding, it fades. We taught classes on survival skills for women that allowed them to go from not working to becoming employable. This gave empowerment to women. It was a good program, government money well spent. Once a single parent becomes employed and off of public assistance it provides a positive environment for their family and their children,” explained Johnson. After retiring from DHS, Johnson has continued to serve the citizens of Polk County by providing his unique array of knowledge and compassion to several local organizations Elks Members & Guests that work towards the greater good. Johnson serves on the Board for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), an organization that provides a voice to children in the foster system. He also serves on the Board for the Salvation Army, PCDC, and the Single Parent Scholarship Program. “All of these programs provide great resources for the people who go through DHS and they are all so important in Polk County. With a community our size Featuring we are so lucky to have places like PCDC who do such great things for our community and I believe the leadership at each of these organizations is the best there could possibly be. One of the things we are currently working on with PCDC is the Talimena 13.1 Run and Relay that is coming up next month. It is a very important fundraiser to help keep the and the White Crow Band programs running for the mentally and physically challenged,” explained Johnson. In his retirement, Johnson has also found time to do a lot with his family, he also enjoys playing a little golf, gardening with the grandkids and quite a bit of trail running. “I like doing outdoors stuff and I think it’s a really great comfort to live in a place where you like a lot of people and enjoy the area. Most of the country would give anything to come to a place like Polk County for a little while,” Johnson said.
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March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
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Jerry and Lori Price have a unique talent of taking the ordinary and turning it into something truly extraordinary. The couple, who married in 1981, have a lot of history in Polk County. “I was born and raised in Mena and Jerry moved here in 1981, when we got married. In 2001 we moved, following our jobs and our careers, but recently our only grandson, Tuck, moved back to Mena, so we decided it was time to come back,” explained Lori. Jerry and Lori have two daughters, Le Shonda Price and Montana Sterner, who assist with the store on weekends. While living in Beebe, Arkansas, the Prices had a booth at a popular flea market. “We had been flea marketers for about 3 years when the market with our most successful booth was going out of business. So many talented people would be without a space so we started a store there. When we decided to move back to Mena, we didn’t want to close that store and thought that Mena could use one too, so we opened The Front Porch on February 7, 2015. With a unique blend of merchandise, including new and repurposed products, The Front Porch has taken local shopping to the next level. “We love repurposing, junking and finding a bargain and turning it into a jewel,” explained Lori. Jerry also makes breathtaking handmade furniture and the couple researched and produced their own line of mineral paint, which is identical to the popular chalk paint used by many crafters, but it is much less expensive. “We have both wedding and baby registries and a custom line of canned jellies and pickles made from only fresh, Arkansas products,” Lori added. The Front Porch also houses booths and consignment items from over 20 local vendors that have found great success at the Front Porch. “I was worried and questioned if I would do okay with my booth and I’ve been totally impressed with how well the community has supported my booth and the store. Lori and Jerry are more than friends, they are like family and they treat everyone who walks in the door like family. The Front Porch offers so many unique items that you may never see again,” said Amy Scott, owner of The Mustard Seed. “I have truly found new friends in Lori and Jerry, they are so easy to work with and work hard to promote our merchandise and increase our sales,” added Lisa Rose, owner of Handpicked with Love by Mammy and Pappy. “Lori and Jerry are always positive and so willing to do whatever it takes to make our sales grow,” said Holli Plunkett, owner of The Southern Pea. “What a blessing The Front Porch is to our community, they offer such a great shopping experience for not only our local customers but for our tourists. At our booth we carry traditional and fun children’s clothes and can do all types of personalization and custom work. I really want to challenge all local people to check out this unique store,” stated Casey Cox, owner of Kennedy’s Boutique. On March 21, 2015, The Front Porch will host a Grand Opening. “We have some fun stuff planned, including a vintage photo booth with real vintage props. We will have a great prize for the person who posts the best picture online. Please make plans to come and join us on this exciting day,” said Lori. The Front Porch truly has something for everyone, with baby gifts, unique furniture and home furnishings, as well as lots of nostalgia, they work hard to raise the bar for other stores and provide a wonderful shopping experience for local citizens. “We feel that competition is great for the local economy and the more good and quality stores that open in Mena, the more tourists we will get, and the less people will be going to Fort Smith, Hot Springs, and Texarkana to shop. Our store is a wonderful gift store with items for anyone and all price points. We try to keep it happy and full of nostalgia and memories; we want to remind people of happier days. We keep good music on and keep it upbeat. If you don’t want to shop, come in for a little therapy. I like to say that you will never find a junk truck in front of a therapist’s office, we do our own therapy,” said Lori with a smile. The Front Porch is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am until 6 pm and Sunday from 1 pm until 5 pm. You can reach them by calling 479.216.9866 and can stay up to date on specials and fun new merchanside by looking at their Facebook Page, Mena’s Front Porch.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Mark Your Calendars & Register NOW!
March 11, 2015
March 11 , 2015
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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Page 17
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Page 18
FAMILY
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Polk County Births at Mena Regional Health Systems
Cheyenne and Ross Boyd, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on March 1st. Bethany and Michael Wester, of Horatio, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 3rd. Sara and James Hirshfield, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 4th. Rebecca McEntire and Charles Turner, of Hatfield, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 4th. Santana Vaughn, of Poteau, is a proud mother of a baby boy, born on March 4th. Chelsea and Kyle Walters, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on March 4th.
Atchley & Wise to Wed John and Ginger Atchley of Mena, Arkansas would like to annonce the engagement and approuching marriage of their daughter Sasha Lyn Atchley to John Wayne Wise, son of Jimmy and Melinda Wise, of Wickes, Arkansas. The wedding will be Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Camp Pioneer in Old Potter at 2 pm. Reception will follow at The Gathering in Cove, Arkansas. All friends and family are invited to attend. In case of bad weather the wedding will take place at The Gathering.
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March 11 , 2015
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Page 19
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Page 20
SCHOOL
March 11, 2015
Mena Middle School Attends FCCLA STAR Events
SUBMITTED Mena Middle School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America recently represented TEAM Mena at State STAR Events. Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR Events) recognize members for proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation. STAR events offer individual skill development and application of learning through cooperative, individualized, and competitive activities. When preparing for this event students use a wide range of academic skills in real life situations. These events develop lifetime skills such as character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation. Payton Medlin and Ryan Sullivan earned Gold in the Food Innovations Junior Category with the creation of a food product called ‘Honey Fingers’. The food innovations category participants develop a food product, create a prototype formula, test the product through focus groups and develop a marketing strategy. Participants demonstrate their knowledge of food science, nutrition, food preparation safety, and product marketing. Participants must prepare a display, suggested product packaging and an oral presentation. The challenge was to develop a snack product featuring at least one locally sourced ingredient, which could be used to promote local tourism or civic pride. Students also determined production costs and profit margins. They surveyed individuals of multiple age groups who would consume the product. They surveyed these individuals following their taste test and used the feedback to perfect their product. They received scores which qualified them to be a National Alternate. Faith Chaney earned Silver in the Illustrated Talk Junior Category. Illustrated Talk competitors make an oral presentation about issues concerning Family and Consumer Sciences and/or related occupations. Students prepare a file folder of information, and oral presentation, and visuals. Faith chose to speak about her personal experience with Aplastic Anemia. She included information about the condition, statistics related to Aplastic Anemia, and shared how students with conditions similar to Aplastic Anemia can find and create solutions to be involved with their normal activities, such as school. She also spoke about how she gave back to the community as they supported her. Tateli Thacker and Lindsey Logan earned Gold in the Life Event Planning Junior Category. Life Event Planning requires students to manage and budget costs of an event. They pick a specific occasion and plan for that occasion from start to finish, including making a financial plan and expense sheet, comparison pricing for all expenses. They are required to contact professional individuals in the appropriate fields for the items they will need to purchase or rent for the Mena’s 4th Grade event. They must complete a portfolio Ladycats are 2014-15 and oral presentation. Tateli and LindTri-County League sey planned a ‘Sweet 16 Party’. They Champions and Tourchose to throw a pool party with a glownament Champions ing theme. They incorporated many with an overall reideas they researched through Pintercord of 11-1. Pictured est. Whenever possible they used local beginning with the resources and products to keep costs back row L-R: Emdown and shop local. Also they made ily Macheler, Paige an alternate plan in case the weather Quinn, Mackenzie was not cooperative. Tateli and Lindsey Vincent, Brooklyn earned in the top 2 of this category and Pennington, Addi will be competing in the National Star Dollar, Payton Clark, Events to be held at the National FCAbby Smith, Londyn CLA Convention in Washington D.C. in Wagner, Keira Hall. July. Coached by Kevin MMS FCCLA is sponsored by Mrs. Wagner. Casey Cox.
Weekly Publication
Page 21
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
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Zane Barr, 9th grader at Acorn High School, received the Microsoft Office Specialist Master Certificate. To qualify for this certificate the candidate has to pass 6 Microsoft Office Specialists exams. These include Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Word Expert, and Excel Expert.
SCHOOL
MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 3/16 Super Donut, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk TUESDAY 3/17 Cereal, toast, diced pears, juice, milk WEDNESDAY 3/18 French toast sticks, sausage link, peaches, juice, milk THURSDAY 3/19 Breakfast bar, bread, fruit, juice, milk FRIDAY 3/20 Poptart fruit, juice, milk MENA PUBLIC SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 3/16 MAIN: Pig in a blanket, potato wedges, broccoli & cheese, side kicks, milk; CHOICE: Cheeseburger, potato wedges, broccoli & cheese, side kicks, milk TUESDAY 3/17 MAIN: Chicken wrap, lettuce & tomato, spanish rice (6-12), steamed carrots, tropical fruit, milk; CHOICE: Crunchy taco, lettuce & tomato, spanish rice (6-12), steamed carrots, tropical fruit, milk WEDNESDAY 3/18 MAIN: Spaghetti w/ meat sauce, garden spinach salad, garlic bread sticks (9-12), fruit, milk; CHOICE: Pizza, garden spinach salad, garlic bread sticks (9-12), fruit, milk THURSDAY 3/19 MAIN: Taco salad w/ salsa, whole grain tortilla chips, refried beans, chocolate chip cookie, pineapple, milk; CHOICE: Burrito w/ cheese sauce, salsa, refried beans, chocolate chip cookie, pineapple milk FRIDAY 3/20 MAIN: Chicken nuggets, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, orange wedges, hot roll, milk; CHOICE: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, orange wedges, hot roll, milk ACORN SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 3/16 Breakfast bar, poptart, fruit, juice, milk TUESDAY 3/17 Super buns, fruit, juice, milk WEDNESDAY 3/18 Cereal, fruit, juice, milk THURSDAY 3/19 Breakfast bagel, fruit, juice, milk FRIDAY 3/20 Super donut, fruit, juice, milk ACORN SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 3/16 Corn dog, baked beans, okra, tropical fruit, milk TUESDAY 3/17 Chicken strips, mashed potatoes, gravy, peas & carrots, peaches, milk WEDNESDAY 3/18 Chili, veggie strips, crackers, cinnamon roll, applesauce, milk THURSDAY 3/19 Chicken spaghetti, broccoli, tossed salad, pears, roll, milk FRIDAY 3/20 Hamburger, french fries, lettuce/tomato, pickles, marshmallow rice treat, assorted fresh fruit, milk COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S BREAKFAST MONDAY 3/16 Mini pancakes, apple sauce, orange juice, milk TUESDAY 3/17 Sausage roll, craisins, apple juice, milk WEDNESDAY 3/18 Cereal, apple wedges, cherry juice, milk THURSDAY 3/19 Breakfast pizza, pineapple juice, milk FRIDAY 3/20 NO SCHOOL COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL’S LUNCH MONDAY 3/16 Burrito w/ cheese, tossed salad w/ dressing, corn, mandarin oranges, milk TUESDAY 3/17 Turkey wrap, lettuce/tomato, pickles, potato wedges, baked beans, peaches, milk WEDNESDAY 3/18 Beef nachos, lettuce/tomato, salsa, pinto beans, fruit cocktail, milk THURSDAY 3/19 Baked chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, pears, roll, milk FRIDAY 3/20 NO SCHOOL
Zane Barr - Microsoft Office Specialist Master Certificate Recipient
Vandervoort Elementary Recognizes Students Bus Students
Vandervoort Elementary’s Bus Students for the month of February are: Koda Bailey, Falesha Harris, Breanna Parker, Shayna Bowen (Not Pictured: Tristan Hackworth & Brodie Creel).
Character Students Vandervoort Elementary’s February Students of the Month for Loyalty are: Koda Bailey, Jaylynn Miller, Justin Bell, Caylynn Burke, Anthony Johnson, Kimberly Hackworth, Dylon Morris, Jasmine Wilkinson, Wyatt Gunn, Hoyt McClain, Jonny Loyd, Kylie Gunn, Lexie Graham, Rilyn Gasca (Not Pictured: Saphira McJunkins & Jacob Squires).
Page 22
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Lady Tigers’ Season Ends at 1A State Tourney BY NORM BETZ
SPORTS
After going to the Semifinals of the State Tournament for the past three seasons, the Acorn Lady Tigers had high hopes of finally winning the big one. Unfortunately, the Lady Tigers fell to Wonderview, 64-55, in the first-round of the 1A State Tournament. Senior Jessica Looney led all scorers with a 31 point performance. “I’m so proud of these young ladies,” said Acorn Lady Tigers head coach Mike Jackson. “They played really hard and showed a lot of heart today.” The Lady Tigers were outscored by the Lady Daredevils, 20-14, in the first quarter. Looney led Acorn with seven points, hitting a three-pointer and a pair from the field. Senior Misty Oglesby tossed one in from beyond the arc, while freshman Tori Barrett connected on three-of-four free throws. Senior Adrianna Howard closed out the opening quarter scoring hitting one-of-two from the stripe. Acorn put together a nice second quarter outscoring Wonderview, 21-14, to take a 35-34 lead to the locker room at halftime. Looney guided the Lady Tigers for the second straight quarter with 11 points. Looney drained a pair of three-pointers, tossed in a pair of buckets, and made one-of-three from the charity stripe. Howard and junior Ashlee Long each finished the second with five points. Howard drilled a three-ball and added a bucket, while Long hit a trey of her own and then knocked down a pair from the line. The Lady Tigers held onto a 47-45 lead at the end of the third after outscoring the Lady Devils 12-11 in the quarter. Looney was good for eight points in the third to lead Acorn. Looney threw in a pair of baskets and converted four-of-four from the line. Howard and Oglesby each added buckets to round out the third quarter Lady Tigers’ scoring. “It really turned out to be a game of runs,” explained Jackson. “We had runs, they had runs, and then we just ran out of gas in the fourth quarter.” Unfortunately for the Lady Tigers, Wonderview outscored Acorn in the final quarter, 19-8, to eliminate the Lady Tigers from the 1A State Tournament in the first-round. Looney once again showed the way, hitting her fourth three-ball of the game, and also hitting two-of-two from the line. Junior Teagan Vann got her name in the scorebook hitting one from the field, while Howard hit one-of-two from the stripe to round out the N O T I C E Acorn scoring for the game. The Lady Tigers lost the contest, 64-55. Life & Health Insurance Four Lady Tigers played in their last Annuities high school game: Jessica Looney, Misty Medicare Supplements Oglesby, Adrianna Howard, and Tara Warrington. Long Term Care Jessica Looney led all scorers with Financial Planning 31 points. Adrianna Howard finished I’m certified & licensed with with nine points, Ashlee Long and Misty several companies, and Oglesby each added five points, Tori BarI can get you the BEST PRICE! rett finished with three points, and Teagan Call: LaDon Copelin Vann added two points. Acorn shot 70% CLU, ChFC, CFP® (14-of-20) from the line, while Wonder3015 Hwy. 71 S, Mena • 479-394-5570 AR License #15429 - OK License #40117342 view shot 81% (26-of-32).
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Page 23
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
SPORTS
Tigers’ Historical Season Ends in State Semis
WE DO
BY NORM BETZ The Acorn Tigers had already made school history as the only boys basketball team to win a game at the State Tournament, doing it not once this year, but twice. The ride came to a screeching halt on Monday when the Tigers fell to the Pirates of Emerson, 55-54 in overtime, in the 1A State Semifinal game. It was only fitting that the game would be decided in OT after the lead changed hands 11 different times and was tied 12 times in the game. “We played hard,” said Tigers head coach Mike Jackson. “I’m so proud that we made it this far for the first time, but I just wish we could have finished it.” After going down 4-0, the Tigers scored 10 straight points and went on to lead 13-11 at the end of the first quarter. Seniors Sky Jackson and Morgan Hair flexed their shooting muscles in the opening quarter. Jackson led the way hitting a pair of threepointers and later threw down a dunk, to the excitement of the packed stands. Hair’s first bucket came from just inside the arc, while his second was from downtown Nashville. The lead changed hands three times in the second quarter with the score finally being locked at 21-all at halftime. Emerson outscored Acorn 10-8 in the quarter. Four different Tigers put points on the board in the second. Hair took a fast-break pass and kissed one in off the glass, while Jackson grabbed Hair’s missed lay-up and put it back through the cylinder via a dunk. Senior Justin Hogan knocked down two-of-two from the line, while junior Ashton Pardun hit two-of-four from the charity stripe. “It was a very physical game,” explained Jackson. “I expected it to be physical, but they really let it get pretty physical out there.” The Tigers outscored the Pirates 12-9 in the third quarter to take a 33-30 lead heading into the final quarter. Emerson scored the first five points, then the Tigers unleashed the Jackson - Hair one-two punch. Jackson hit a pair from the line, while Hair tossed in his second trifecta of the game. Acorn outscored Emerson 7-4 in the final 2:30 of the third. Hogan and Pardun threw in lay-ups, while Hair knocked down his third three-pointer of the contest. Emerson opened the fourth outscoring Acorn 7-2 to grab a 37-35 lead with 6:23 to play in the game. Jackson hit two-of-two from the line for the Tigers only points during that run. The Pirates only mustered four points on four straight turnovers by the Tigers to hold onto a 41-37 lead with 5:13 left. Jackson supplied the only points, with them coming via the charity stripe again. The Tigers grabbed the 43-41 lead with 2:35 to play when Jackson and Hair teamed up, yet again, but this time from beyond the arc, each hitting three-pointers. Each team ended regulation with a steal and score, going coast-to-coast for lay-ups. Jackson supplied the lay-up for the Tigers. Regulation ended with a mysterious jump ball call with :02.7 left in the game. “We weren’t even supposed to be here,” said Jackson. “Most expected us to lose in the first-round, so I’m really happy we made it this far.” Emerson grabbed the first lead of overtime with a lay-up, and Pardun matched their lay-up with one of his own. Hair gave the Tigers their first lead of OT when he stole a pass and took it to the hoop to put Acorn up 49-47 with 3:05 to play. The Pirates hit back-to-back lay-ups to retake the lead, but it was short-lived as Pardun received a sweet no-look pass from Jackson and laid it up and in off the backboard to knot the score at 51-all with 1:20 remaining on the clock. Emerson answered again with a pair of buckets and led 55-51 with just :40 to play. Jackson • Commercial/Residential made Scrapper Arena erupt when he drained his fourth three-pointer of the game to cut the • Contract Work lead to one, 55-54 with :25 left. It appeared everything was falling into place for another upset • Service Work win for the Tigers, but an inbounds pass with :11.8 to go could not be handled and the Pirates grabbed the loose ball. With just :06.5 remaining, the Tigers were forced to foul and did get • Provide Bucket Truck the final half court shot, but it fell harmlessly to the floor, as the Pirates held on to defeat the and Backhoe Work Tigers, 55-44. • Generac Generator Dealer “Losing by one point is hard to swallow,” said Jackson. “I always preach to the kids, that it’s • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES the little things, that will eventually add up to big things.” Locally Owned Four Tigers seniors played in their last high school game: Sky Jackson, Morgan Hair, Justin From Mena...we are located 1 mile down 88 East Hogan and Riley Carter. past Pitchford’s Animal Clinic. First drive past the truss shop...look for cedar post sign. “I hate that it ended like this, after the effort we put forth,” said Jackson. “This is actually the fourth straight year as a coach, that our season has ended in the State Semifinals. The prior Inventory Continues to Expand! three were with the girls, and then this one with the boys.” Sky Jackson led the Tigers with 24 points. Morgan Hair finished with 18 points, Ashton Pardun added eight points, and Justin Hogan finished with four points.
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Page 24
SPORTS
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Tigers’ Historic Season Lands Them Spot in Final Four
BY NORM BETZ The Acorn Tigers not only did something that hasn’t been done in 39 years, but they continue to set records. The Tigers made history in their first game of the 1A State Tournament when they defeated Wonderview 67-63 in overtime. Prior to the 2014-15 Tigers’ victory in the first-round, Acorn hadn’t ever won a game at the state tournament. History making continued as the Tigers defeated Western Grove in the Elite 8 game, 58-43, on Saturday night to advance to the semifinals of the 1A State Tournament. “Proud of these young men,” said Tigers head coach Mike Jackson. “They keep gaining confidence with every game.” The Tigers opened the game scoring the first bucket, led by as many as five points, and held onto a 13-11 lead at the end of the first. Senior Morgan Hair led Acorn in the first, hitting one from beyond the arc and later converting a three-point play the old-fashioned way, by grabbing his own rebound and putting it back up and in and getting fouled on the play. Junior Ethan Bird added a three-pointer of his own, while senior Sky Jackson and junior Ashton Pardun each added buckets. Hair guided the Tigers for the second straight quarter owning eight of the 15 points scored. Hair nailed a pair of three-pointers and knocked down two-of-two from the charity stripe. Jackson threw down his own exclamation point via a dunk and was also perfect from the line hitting two-of-two in the second. Senior Justin Hogan started off the quarter with a lay-up and added one-of-two from the line. Acorn outscored Western Grove 15-11 in the second and took a 28-22 lead to the locker room at the half. The Tigers outscored the Warriors 16-12 in the third quarter to take a 10 point lead, 44-34. It looked like Acorn was going to be up 13 points, but Western Grove hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to cut the lead to 10. Jackson tipped in his own shot, converted a three-point play the old-fashioned way, and made one-of-two from the line to lead the Tigers in the third quarter. Hogan and Pardun each tossed in a pair of buckets and each made one-of-two from the charity stripe to account for Acorn’s third quarter points. “Defensively, I thought we rebounded well,” said Jackson. “We moved the ball well in the second half and got the ball to the open shooter.” The Tigers closed out the game outscoring Western Grove 14-9 in the final quarter, to win the contest, 58-43, and advance to the Final Four of the 3A State Tournament for the first time in school history. Acorn went to the line 19 times in the fourth, connecting on just eight. Jackson led the Tigers with seven points, hitting a pair of 14-foot jumpers and making just three-of-nine from the stripe. Hair connected on six-of-seven from the stripe, while Pardun grabbed a rebound and kissed it in off the glass. Bird rounded out the Tigers scoring hitting two-of-two from the line. “It really wasn’t pretty, but we got the job done,” said Jackson. “We really struggled from the line today, but we did enough to advance.” Sky Jackson matched Western Grove’s Andrew Smith with 19 points. Morgan Hair finished with 17 points, Ashton Pardun finished with nine points, Justin Hogan added eight points, and Ethan Bird rounded out the Acorn Not all bedroom sizes and locations are immediately available. scoring with five points. Acorn shot 49% (18MAXIMUM RENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: of-38) from the line, while Western Grove shot 57% (4-of-7). 3 BEDROOM $571.00 With the win Acorn advanced to the Final 2 BEDROOM $423.00 Four or better known as the 3A State Semifinals 1 BEDROOM $323.00 and played Emerson on Monday at 2:00 p.m. Efficiency $309.00 at Nashville.
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Page 25 Weekly Publication
March 11, 2015
Eagles’ Season Ends in First-Round of State Tourney
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Let 2015 bring back the Real You with our sincere help!
SPORTS
BY NORM BETZ Cossatot River’s season ended in the first-round of the 3A State Tournament, when the Eagles lost to the Flippin Bobcats, 45-21. The Eagles were hoping for a better showing, especially since Cossatot River was hosting the State Tournament, but it just wasn’t in the cards. “We knew going into the game that we needed to get off to a quick start,” explained first-year Eagles head coach Kevin Kyzer. “It’s so hard to play from behind, especially in the State Tournament.” It appeared both teams were a little nervous to start off the contest. Both teams first possessions ended with traveling calls. The Bobcats scored the first points of the game on a lay-up with 5:20 to play. The Eagles really had a hard time getting things going and in fact, ended up being shutout in the first quarter, 8-0. The Bobcats, on the other hand, didn’t exactly get shot out of a cannon, as they led 2-0 with 1:12 left in the opening quarter. Flippin did manage to toss in a pair of three-pointers in the final minute of the quarter. “This was the first State appearance for any of the kids on the team, and it showed,” said Kyzer. “It was not all negative, our kids gained valuable experience that you cannot get or learn in practice.” The Eagles trailed by as many as 14 points in the second quarter, but cut the lead to 10, as they trailed 19-9 at halftime. Sophomore Cody Baker started off the Eagles’ scoring with 7:05 to play in the second, when he drilled one from three-point land. Senior Edgar Gonzalez led Cossatot River in the second knocking down a pair of 15-footers from the elbow. Senior Ben Counts had to take a seat at the 4:02 mark of the second, when he received his third foul of the game. Sophomore Marco Ramirez rounded out the first-half scoring with a driving baseline lay-up. Flippin started off the third with a mini 8-1 run and went on to lead by 17 points, 2710, with 5:40 to play in the quarter. Uncharacteristically, Counts made one-of-two from the line on the run, for his only point of the contest. The Eagles’ matched the Bobcats’ output of nine points for the quarter and trailed 28-18 at the end of the third. Senior Josh Jordan threw in a reverse lay-up and later drove the lane for another lay-up, while Gonzalez made a pair from the charity stripe and ended the quarter with a steal, that he took coast-to-coast for a lay-up to end the scoring for the quarter. Things didn’t get better for the Eagles as they were outscored in the final quarter 173, to lose the first-round game, 45-21. With the loss, the Eagles’ season came to an end. Ramirez made the only basket of Do you know how many calories you need the quarter, knocking one down from beyond the for good health & fat loss? arc. “Our kids will learn As healthcare promoters, we offer the from this and remember only metabolic testing in the area. this feeling next season,” Let us help you discover your body's said Kyzer. “We do have a young team and three true calorie needs. of our six key players are sophomores, so they’ll be Have health issues? back.” Edgar Gonzalez led Let us help you regain true the Eagles with eight functional health. points. Marco Ramirez finished with five points, Josh Jordan added four points, Cody Baker finished with three points, and Ben Counts rounded out the Cossatot River scoring with one point. The Eagles shot 33% from the stripe, hitting just 3-of-9, while the Bobcats went to the line 17 times and made 14 for 82%.
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March 11, 2015
CALENDAR
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
* 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Highway 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 2164606 Friday 3/13 * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Fiber Group will meet at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Come and bring your project and join this group working with a variety of fibers. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Writers Guild meeting in Art Gallery classroom, 607 Mena Street. Admission is free. * 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting - 812 Hwy 71South, Mena. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting – ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Saturday 3/14 * 8:15 a.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 Breakfast Bible Study, Lime Tree Restaurant. Public is invited. * 10:00 a.m. –12 Noon – Ouachita Photography Club meeting, Mena Art Gallery. Bring your photos to share or just come and see what other photographers are doing. Everyone is welcome. * 12 Noon – Ouachita Amateur Radio Association monthly club meeting, Lime Tree Restaurant. Testing will be available. * 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Children’s Art Class, Mena Art Gallery, ages 6 –12. Fee of $2 per child to help cover cost of supplies. Call to reserve you child’s spot. Class size is limited. If you have questions, call 479-394-3880 * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena, For info, call 394-7396 or 216-4606. Sunday 3/15 * 10:30 a.m. – The Ambassadors. Mena First Assembly of God. Enjoy anointed,
spirit led personal testimonies, and the Gospel in songs. Call 479-394-1229 for information * 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall Monday 3/16 * 5:00 p.m. – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), Hatfield City Hall. For more information call 870-389-6678. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo, American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 6:00 p.m. – FREE Weightloss Warriors – First National Bank across from Depot. For information call 437-3560. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church, Everyone is welcome to attend. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – 12 +12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 216-4606. * 7:00 p.m. – Ouachita Beekeepers Association monthly meeting, Lime Tree Restaurant. Tuesday 3/17 * 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission will be open in the 9th Street Ministries building. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. –“Art Day”, Mena Art gallery, 607 Mena Street. Bring your current project and join other artists working in the classroom at the gallery. the month is What is the hardest thing you have ever done? For more info, call Diane at 243-0191. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – FREE Delicious Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen, Mena Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk Rd 43 (Fairground Road), Mena,, 479-394-7404. Take –
* Mena Head Start is taking applications for preschool children 3-5 and Early Head Start Children, birth – 3. The program is free to those who qualify. For an application, come by Mena Head Start at 606 Pine Avenue, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. For more information, call 479-437-3733. * Every Monday 3:30 – 5:00 pm, learn American Sign Language for free, Cove Branch Library with teacher Casey Kelley. * Every Thursday 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.Learn to knit or crochet with teachers Patricia Ruskauff and Mollie Thomas, Cove Branch Library.
BEATS
Thursday 3/12 * 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Polk County/ Mena meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 216-3383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more info. * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters In Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:30 p.m. - Weight Watchers - meet at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479-234-2297 for more information. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous – meeting at Saint Agnes Church Parish Hall. * 7:00 p. m. Polk County Genealogical Society meeting, Polk County Library. Shirley Gross will present the program. Everyone is invited to attend.
Weekly Publication
out is available. All are welcome! * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters in Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S, Mena. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. For information 479-2342887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday 3/18 * 6:00 p.m. – We The People Tea Party meeting, North Room, Polk County Public Library. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – Book Study, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 2164606.
Check out our online calendar of events at MyPulseNews.com
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March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Rehearsals Have Begun for ‘Charlie Brown’
ARTS
by judy thompson Judy Kropp, director of the upcoming OLT musical, has announced that rehearsals are in full swing for ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.’ After recent auditions, the cast was named and is as follows: Charlie Brown will be played by Chris Benner; Brandy Brenner will portray Lucy; Zane and Paulette Sherrer will respectively play Linus and Sally; Schroeder will be depicted by Brandon Zacharias and Kelsey Wiggins will play Snoopy. Serving as assistant director will be Scott O’Rear. Other crew includes T. J. Thompson (set), Marilyn Brown (programs), Katie O’Rear (stage manager), Jessica Kropp (lights), and Judy Thompson (publicity). Director Kropp notes that she feels she has once again been blessed with excellent cast members and believes that this will be a great show. This family-style musical is based on the comic strip ‘Peanuts’ by Charles Schultz. The play will open on Thursday, April 16, at 7:30 PM at the Ouachita Little Theatre. Saturday’s performance (April 18) will also begin at 7:30 with Sunday, April 19, being a matinee starting at 2:30. The following weekend, Friday and Saturday (April 24-25) will begin at 7:30 and Sunday (April 26) matinee will start at 2:30 PM. Admission is $10.00. Students and seniors sixty and over pay only $8.00. Mark your calendar and be a part of the heart of OLT!
Children’s Show Winners at Mena Art Gallery Polk County Arts available
@ mypulsenews.com
by barbara m. tobias On Saturday afternoon, March 7, the winners of this year’s Children’s Show were recognized and received their awards. They are: Best of Show: Kathryn Davison, 5th grade, “Kitty” Special McDonald’s Award: Maxwell Dollarhyde, Kindergarten, “Flowers” Lucy Mulcahy Award: Lexie Morren, 8th grade, “Elvis The Rooster” K - 4th Grade First: Maxwell Dollarhyde, “Flowers” Second: Addi Dollar, “The Owl” Third: Carmen Puckett, “The Swan” Honorable Mention: Brooklyn Pennington, “Secret Garden” 5th - 8th Gade First: Sarah Grenier, “Man in the Moon” Second: Lexie Morren, “Elvis the Rooster” Third: Emily Liles, “Dream Catcher” Honorable Mention: John Fagan, “The Rose” In addition to the pleasure of seeing what a great job the young artists did, visitors to the gallery were privileged to listen to Benjamin Morren playing both guitar and keyboards. This extremely talented young musician will be playing in the rotunda at the Arkansas State Capital later in the spring. Tobias said, “We are fortunate to have so many talented young artists in Mena, and want to thank all of them for participating in this annual celebration of art for the younger generation. We also wish to thank Charles and Claudia Brown, owners of Mena McDonald’s, for again providing the awards.”
Pictured below are four of the winners: Kathryn Davison, Sarah Grenier, Lexie Morren, and Addi Dollar. Photo by Patricia Trulock.
PETS: ANT FARM • CAT • CHAMELEON • CHICKEN • CHINCHILLA • COCKATIEL • DOG • DUCK • FERRET • FROG • GECKO • GERBIL • GOLD FISH • GUINEA PIG • HAMSTER • HEDGEHOG • KITTEN • LIZARD • MOUSE • PARAKEET • PARROT • PUPPY • RABBIT • RAT • SNAKE • TORTOISE • TURTLE
Page 28
March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
Moments From American History Happy Birthday Scouts!
HISTORY
BY JEFF OLSON This week is the 103rd anniversary of the Girl Scouts of America (GSUSA). Agnes Baden-Powell, the sister of Boy Scout founder Robert Baden-Powell, began the Girl Guides program in England in 1909 and served as the first president. Before long the movement spread to other countries, including Canada. In 1920, Baden-Powell’s wife, Olave, called the first international conference in Great Britain in which 15 countries were represented. In 1912, Girl Guiding in the United States was established by Mrs. Juliette Gordon Low. She soon changed the name to Girl Scouting and held the first troop meeting in her home in Savannah, Georgia on March 12, 1912. In 1913, the organization opened its national headquarters in Washington, D.C., and Mrs. Low became the first president. The headquarters was later moved to New York City. In 1950, the U.S. Congress issued a charter to the Girl Scouts of America. GSUSA aims to empower girls and to help teach values such as honesty, fairness, courage, compassion, character, sisterhood, confidence and citizenship. This is done through activities such as camping, community service, learning first aid, and by earning badges by acquiring other practical skills. Girl Scouts’ achievements are recognized through rank advancement and by various special awards. Girl Scouts welcomed girls with disabilities early in their history, at a time when they were not included in most other activities. Membership is organized according to grade with activities designed appropriately for each level. In the largest study of charitable and non-profit organization popularity and credibility, it was shown that the Girl Scouts was ranked as the Eighth “most popular charity/non-profit in America.” When most of us think of Girl Scouts, one thing that usually comes to mind is Girl Scout cookies which are one of its major fundraisers for local Scout units. The first cookie sales by an individual Scout unit were by the Mistletoe Troop in Muskogee, Oklahoma in December 1917. In 1922, the Girl Scout magazine The American Girl suggested cookie sales as a fund-raiser and provided recipes. In 1933, Girl Scouts in Philadelphia organized the first official sale, selling homemade cookies at the windows of local utility companies. In 1936 the national organization began licensing commercial bakers to produce cookies. As of 2007, cookie sales were estimated at about 200 million boxes per year. Approximately 70% of the proceeds stay in the local Girl Scout council to support Girl Scouting in that area, including a portion that goes directly to the group selling the cookies. As Americans, we should continue to support the GSUSA for the contributions they have made to the American tradition and culture and congratulate them on their 103 years of dedication and service.
IN THE NEWS One Year Ago LOCAL
1. Parks & Tourism Releases Economic Impact Numbers from QWSP Delays 2. Lambert Critically Injured In Accident on Hwy 270 3. Talimena 13.1 this Saturday
NATIONAL
1. Climate Change Keeps A Quarter of Senate Up All Night 2. Senate Democrats Plan All-Night ‘Talkathon’ On Climate Change 3. U.S. And Russia Hit Diplomatic Roadblock Trying To Start Ukraine Talks
we are always on at Mypulsenews.com
Page 29 Weekly Publication
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SELECTED RESPONSES TO OUR RANDOM QUESTIONS OF THE DAY:
WHO IS/WAS YOUR FAVORITE SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE CAST MEMBER, PAST OR PRESENT??
Terrina Broughton Williams Chris Farley!!! Glenn Fortner Will Ferrell
WHAT EMPLOYER HAVE YOU HAD THAT YOU CONSIDER THE BEST? Jim Strickland Continental Airlines. 26 happy years there. Joy Armer Cogburn Cooper power systems Janice Parker Turcott Polk County Developmental Center. I have met some Awesome people there.
Mary Grussing Ruth buzzy Jennifer Sassman Jimmy Fallon Gilda Meyers Gilda Radner Scott Kiersey Chris farley Martha Grunwald Koelemay John Belushi Todd Ham Chevy Chase!!!!
Jessie Foster Barr L&M Plumbing Jennifer Stockton Street and Performance. I have loved working there for the last 7 years. Melanie Lisenby Buck Polk County Pulse!!! We have an awesome team and an awesome leader!!! Shonna Colbert Nan Gaddis, by FAR! Karlene Coleman Hooker Mena Public Schools!!! Thirty plus years and could not ask for better coworkers and the opportunity to work with this community’s youth and leaders ~ past, present and future!!
Bettye Burns John Beluchi Danny Jones Gilda Radner Perri Brown Curry Chevy Chase
Josh Mclellan U.S. Army 13 years
Donna Jo Montgomery Eddie Murphy.
Becca Skipper Montgomery Smith Pallet Company, we have a fantastic team and the Wilson’s are a great family to work for.
Duane Dotsy Webb Dana Carvey aka “the church lady”
Susan Brower United States Postal Service
Leslie Hensley Jones Gold Radner George Zink Belushi
Angela Cunningham Mena Regional Health System.. been there 20 years. The people I work with are my extended family.
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Know the headlines before they’re printed...catch photos of events as they are happening...share your photos...have your voice heard in the new “What’s Your Pulse?” Remember, to respond to each week’s “What’s Your Pulse?” you must “LIKE” us on Facebook and respond to the posted question. Selected posted responses for publication will include your name and comment in the following week’s paper. Can’t wait to hear from you ... our readers!
#LOL Pa Won’t Like It It seems a farm boy accidentally overturned his wagonload of corn. The farmer who lived nearby heard the noise. “Hey Willis!!” the farmer yelled. “Forget your troubles. Come in with us. Then I’ll help you get the wagon up. “That’s mighty nice of you, “ Willis answered, “but I don’t think Pa would like me to.” “Awe, come on,” the farmer insisted. “Well okay,” the boy finally agreed, and added, “But Pa won’t like it.” After a hearty dinner, Willis thanked his host. “I feel a lot better now, but I know Pa is going to be real upset.” “Don’t be foolish!” the neighbor said with a smile. “By the way, where is he?” “Under the wagon.”
Social Media Can Help Reconnect Lost Families
#MyPulseNews
What’s Your
March 11, 2015
BY MELANIE BUCK Many times I have complained about the downside of social media. After all, between the constant unnecessary gossip, reading about potty training, and having an open door for predators to easily type their way into our lives, there is plenty to complain about. However, there are good things on social media, also. One of the best things that I have seen come from social media sites, such as Facebook, is the reconnecting of long-lost families and friends. Whether it be from adoptions, abductions, or simply moving from one state to another and leaving someone behind, many people have been estranged from one another. I have found several friends that I had lost touch with after graduation or after moving from one school to another but there are many stories out there that are much more amazing than mine. One such story comes to us from Great Britain. After being sent to live with her father and two brothers when she was only two-years old, 23-year Stacy Lee hadn’t seen her birth mother for more than 21 years.After almost completely giving up, Lee’s boyfriend came up with an idea; make a sign, take a picture, and post it to Facebook. Lee did just that. She made a huge cardboard sign that read: “Looking for my birth mother Brenda Elizabeth Davies. (May have another name) Born in Leyland. Had me in Manchester General 21st Oct. 1991. I also have 2 other brothers from my mum. If you have anything please contact me.” Lee’s picture of her holding the sign was shared more than 100,000 times on Facebook and within one day, she was speaking to her mother on the phone. Lee’s story is only one of many of the growing trends of using social media as a form of investigation into lost families so the next time you see one of those pictures with someone holding a sign full of information, take the time to read it, and if worthy, take the time to share it as well. You may be the unknown key that connects person A to person B. Until next time, Happy Connecting!
Trending Now
MyPulseNews.com
Across the Web
• Gunfire Rang Through the Streets as Mena Woke Up to Military Training Exercise • Exchange Students Get First Taste of Snow • Shanea Floyd – A Heart for Helping • Sheriff’s Department Investigating ‘Suspicious Fires’ • Regional Coalition Formed to Promote Bilingual Community for Economic Development
• New 325-foot-tall roller coaster can reach 95 miles per hour • First responders clear snow off roof of man who they tried to save • Reddit users share photos of babies who look like old people • Impressionist covers ‘Uptown Funk’ in cartoon voices • Groom’s touching vows to bride’s daughter go viral
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POLICE
March 11, 2015 The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
Mena Police Department March 1, 2015 Officers took a report regarding neighbors bickering in a local neighborhood. No charges were filed. March 2, 2015 Robert McElveen, 22 of Mena was charged with violation of an order of protection and harassment. Robert Scott Williams, 47, of Mena was charged with two counts of misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance, and felony possession of drug paraphernalia (three counts) and felony possession of cocaine or methamphetamine. Kristalynn Ollar, 24, of Mena turned herself in to authorities on an outstanding warrant. March 3, 2015 Officers responded to a call regarding a vehicle sideswiping a mailbox and an electrical pole on a local highway. March 4, 2015 No criminal reports filed. March 5, 2015 Officers responded to an alarm call at a local manufacturing business. A key-holder was present when officers arrived. March 6, 2015 A local resident reported that someone had tried to gain access to his home by removing a window screen. The man heard the noise, went outside, and the suspect fled the area. Case is pending. A 17-year-old Mena youth was charged with criminal mischief after damage was done to a grassy area at a local park when the suspect went “mudding” in the area. March 7, 2015 No criminal reports filed. Officers completed an additional five reports and worked five accidents.
Weekly Publication Polk County Sheriff’s Department March 2, 2015 Report from complainant on Highway 375 East near Mena of a break-in, damaging a door, and the theft of electronics, household goods, knives and jewelry, totaling losses at $2,865.00. Arrested were Daniel J. May, 19, and Katelyn E. Enyeart, 22, each of Mena, both on Charges of Burglary and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree. Also arrested was Charles D. Morgan, 37, of Mena, on Charges of Burglary, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree and Possession of an Instrument of Crime. A 16-year-old Mena male was also issued Juvenile Citations for Burglary and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree. March 3, 2015 Report from complainant on Polk 88 in the Ink community of the theft of electronics, building materials and tools, all valued at $1,850.00. Investigation continues. Report of a disturbance on Polk 23 near Cove involving gunfire. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Joe Robinson, 46, of Cove, on a Warrant for Registered Offender with Incorrect Permanent Physical Address on Identification Card or Driver’s License. March 4, 2015 Arrested was Ronald A. Mowdy, 21, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. Report from complainant on Highway 71 South near Cove of the theft of prescription medication from his mailbox. Investigation continues. March 5, 2015 Arrested was Terrie J. Bruce, 27, of Mena, on a Charge of Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License. Arrested was Tammy D. Tomblin, 34, of Hatfield, on Warrants for three counts of Failure to Appear. March 6, 2015 Arrested was Dakota C. Evans, 24, of Mena, on a McCurtain County, Oklahoma Warrant. March 7, 2015 Report from complainant of the break-in and theft from a storage unit in Hatfield of household goods, valued at $465.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 61 in the Big Fork community of the theft of checks from a vehicle. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 41 S in the Shady Grove community of unauthorized persons on their property.
Arrested was Daniel A. Chaney, 19, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. March 8, 2015 Arrested was Bradley J. Crawford, 20, of Mena, on Warrants for two counts of Failure to Comply with a Court Order.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked two vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 22 Incarcerated Inmates; 14 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 3 are currently out of jail on a monitoring system.
Police Reports Are Always Available At MyPulseNews.com
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March 11, 2015
Weekly Publication
ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID. Ad deadline is 5 p.m. on Monday. Payment is due with ad. Publishing and distributing 8,000 copies weekly. Clean & Comfortable Housing since 1969, J Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals, Hwy 71 N., Mena, 479-3941252. TFN Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair and painting. Small to medium jobs. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068
For Sale: Solid Wood Espresso Console/Sofa Table with drawer and bottom shelf. In good condition. Asking $200. Call or text 479-216-3091. TFN/INH Experienced flat bed truck driver needed: home most weekends, good pay, good company. Must have 3 years of verifiable experience and clean CDL driving record. Apply in person to Moore Transportation of Arkansas, 1408 Hwy 4/01 71 North, Mena.
Rocky Service Center
Tires Repaired Automotive/AG New Tires Available Oil Changes & Scheduled Maintenance on most equipment Round Baler Belts Relaced/Welding Call for Appointment
479-234-1396 Winter Hours: 9 am - 3 pm Pick up and Delivery on most equipment
Garden Plowing, discing, tilling. Call for estimates, 479-216-5204. 3/11
3/11
Books & Stuf, 704 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas – we sell & trade paperbacks, hardbacks, & audio books. Come & see. 3/11
General Service on Ford Tractors & New Holland Equipment Vermeer Balers/Kuhn Mowers Bush-Hog Cutters & Mowers
I buy gold jewelry, scrap, dental and sterling silver. Also buying U.S. pre 65 Silver Coins one ounce silver and gold rounds and bars. Check with the rest, but sell to the best. Dan’s Cash-N-Gun. 100 Hwy 71 S at 1st Street, Mena. 479-394-5515. TFN
J & N Dozer - Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years experience. We appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357. TFN For Sale: Caterpillar D5H (Hightrack) Dozer with heavy duty three shank vail ripper. Local owner, six way blade/120 horsepower/rear & side screens/all maintenance parts & operator manual books included. Call 479-234-1357 for price and more information. 3/11
Kenmore 25 cu. ft side by side refrigerator with ice maker, works good $200; 30” electric stove works good. $100.00. Dola’s Furniture 479-234-5345. 3/11
CLASSIFIEDS
UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1
Mena Public Schools is seeking the following position: District Business Manager Contact Person: Carla Myers (479394-1710), Send application/resume to Mr. Benny Weston, Superintendent. Address: 501 Hickory Avenue, Mena, AR 71953. Telephone: (479-394-1710). Fax: (479-394-1713) Application Deadline: Until Filled. Salary: Per Salary Schedule, depending on degree and experience. Length of Contract: Full Time –245 days. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field preferred, Arkansas Public School Computer Network Financial System and Payroll/Human Resource experience. See Mena Public School website for detailed job description. 3/11 Appliances Wanted – buying all major appliances, working or not, I refurbish them. Help me bless others. Call or text 479-227-1468 4/01 Estate- Garage Sale 302 10th Street, Friday, March 13, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Lawn mower, 2 leaf blowers, one old, one new. Wheelbarrow, lots of jeans, clothes, towels, all sizes. Dishes, Misc. 243-0051. 3/11
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID The Polk County Judge is soliciting sealed bids for sealing and resealing selected Polk County roads. A copy of locations and specifications may be obtained at the Polk County Judges Office at 507 Church Avenue in Mena, Arkansas. Bids are due and will be opened at 9:00 AM on March 27, 2015 in the basement of the Polk County Courthouse. Each bid must be accompanied by a 5% surety or cashiers check drawn upon a bank or trust doing business in the state of Arkansas. Polk County reserves the right to reject any or all bids or waive any formalities. Polk County encourages the participation of small, minority, and woman’s business enterprises. Questions can be directed to Polk County Judge, Brandon Ellison, at 479-394-8133. 3/25
Publisher’s Notice: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including the right to do so after the ad has been accepted for publication but before the publication occurs. The Advertiser’s sole remedy for such refusal shall be the refund of the funds paid to purchase the ad. Advertisements are accepted by the Publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or Advertiser is authorized to publish the contents and subject matter of the advertisement and that it is no libelous or does not infringe on the privacy of the individual or entity. All advertisements are accepted and published by the Publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or Advertiser will indemnify and hold harmless the Publisher from any loss or expense, including the cost of defense and settlement and/or judgment resulting from claims based upon the contents of any advertisement including claims or suits for defamation, libel, violation of right of privacy, plagiarism or copyright infringement. All advertisements created by the Publisher are not considered a “work made for hire” and the Publisher retains the copyright to all advertisements created by the Publisher for the Advertiser. The advertisement may not be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.
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THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
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NEW
2014 Chevy Silverado
$35,715 MSRP -$2,786 Gentry Discount -$2,500 Consumer Cash -$500 Farm Bureau -$2,000 GM Trade Allowance
Gentry Price:
$20,529
P5821
$26,670 MSRP Gentry -$1,004 Gentry Discount -$2,500 Consumer Cash -$500 Farm Bureau -$2,000 GM Trade Allowance
Price:
$20,666
2015 Chevy Trax $24,720 MSRP -$727 Gentry Discount -$500 Farm Bureau
Gentry Price:
NEW
J6123
$23,493
2015 Chevy Tahoe $65,435 MSRP -$6,266 Gentry Discount -$500 Farm Bureau
P5839
Gentry Price:
$58,669
T5937
NEW