March_20_2019 by The Pulse

MARCH 20, 2019

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Mena Assistant Superintendent Retires By: Sam Jordan (MENA) The Mena School District met on Thursday night, March 14th at the Administration Building in downtown Mena and accepted the resignation of Assistant Superintendent Jeannie Smith. Smith was actually given a final opportunity of rescinding her impending retirement from the district. This is Smith’s second stint in that position. Smith will be replaced by Paulette Sherrer, who’s position will be combined to the title of Assistant Superintendent & Federal Programs Coordinator. Thus, saving the district much needed money. Mena School Superintendent Benny Weston commended the work that Smith has done for the district. There were other changes in the administrative structure within the district. The high

Mena City Council Approves Several Appointments By: Sam Jordan (MENA) Mena City Council met Tuesday night at City Hall and approved several appointments to various boards. Lynn Ashley, Vicki Agee and Tiffany Lane, were appointed to the Mena Depot Commission. Phillip Wilson and Duane Corcoran were re-appointed to the Mena Airport Commission. City Council rejected a lone bid for just over $51,000 to construct a new office and restroom building at the Mena Animal Control facility. City officials stated that the bid was nearly double of what was anticipated or budgeted for the project. Mayor Smith was authorized to place

the oil storage tanks on Miller Street up for sale. The tanks are no longer being utilized by the city and council would like to part with them as soon as possible. After a lengthy process of an ordinance being passed that allows for a member of the Mena Advertising and Promotions Commission to conduct business with the city; council approved a resolution to purchase two Zero Turn Mowers from Tim’s Yamaha in Mena. The owner of the dealership is A & P Commission member, Tim Kaiser. According to Arkansas Codes, Kaiser or any other member of a local commission would be prohibited from conducting business with the City, due to a conflict of interest.

school principal, Shane Torix; will be promoted to the new title of Administrator of School Support Services. Torix will be replaced by the high school principal at Arkadelphia, David Maxwell. Maxwell has been the high school principal at Arkadelphia for the last ten years. According to Weston, there may be other cost-saving moves in the near future. Weston added that “where the district can save money, and still do the work for less” he is all for it. The board received comments and discussed the huge success of how the Louise Durham Elementary School has evolved. Superintendent Weston stated that a local community organization, The Mena Lions Club, recently toured the facility and was astounded at the technological breakthroughs that the building has to offer. According to Weston, the school is a “state of the art” building that should serve the needs of the district for many years to come. A showpiece that the community can be proud of.” The Polk County Virtual Academy was also a topic of discussion. The Virtual Academy allows for students to attend via an online program, instead of the typical “brick and mortar” way, that most people have done. This type of educational setting is reserved for home school students or for other circumstances. Assistant Superintendent Jeannie Smith stated that there were 25 students that started the school year out. Currently, there are 13 students enrolled in the pilot program. The program has seen a few obstacles in the roll out of the program. The curriculum studies are more rigorous than in the classroom. The district may want to take a look at the setup at a later date to make some refinements.

Polk County Single Parent Scholarship Fund Growing Thanks to new Contributors...

Arkansas Highway Commission Approves Bid for Improvements in Polk County POLK COUNTY (3-15) - The Arkansas State Highway Commission has approved a bid for improvements to a roadway in Polk County, according to Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) officials. The purpose of this project is to over-

lay 5.3 miles of U.S. Highway 71 extending southward from Mena. APAC-Central, Inc. of Fayetteville was awarded the contract at $1,667,638.45. Construction is scheduled to begin in two to four weeks, weather permitting. Completion is expected in mid 2019. First Financial Bank Vice President Darbi Scheppmann and Market President Greg Goss present the bank’s $600.00 contribution to the Polk County Single Parent Scholarship Fund’s chair, Pete Chambers. In making the contribution, Goss noted that First Financial strongly supports economic growth in Polk County. “Helping single parents get an education gives them the ability to make a good living for their families and make their own contributions to the economy.”

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Ribbon Cutting at Silver Screen Cinema By Sam Jordan, News / Sports Editor news@mypulsenews.com (MENA) A new management team has been put into place and various renovations have taken shape into Mena's only movie cinema on Friday, March 9th. The Silver Screen, located at 1110 Pine Street in Mena, has seen the owner of the four year facility to spend approximately $1 million on renovations and other improvements, to handle the speciﬁcations required by the movie studios to show ﬁrst - run movies. Some of the additions include VIP sections in each cinema, a Bistro that can be rented for private parties. One other addition is "Crying Rooms" in which parents of small children can take a small child that may be upset over something and the parents can take that child to one of the two rooms and still enjoy the movie without leaving. The rooms are sound - proof, so that regular movie-goers will not hear the crying child in the cinema, thus providing a more pleasant experience for all. Some other improvements include wider projection screens, an amazing surround sound system that emphasizes more bass sounds that makes you feel like you are there as the action is happening on screen. wider leather seats with cup holders, rope

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The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must be less than 300 words and must not contain obscene or libelous language. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A dropbox is provided by the front door for after hour convenience.

lighting along the aisles, and offering Sunday afternoon matinees. The biggest change for cinema - goers is lower concession prices and bigger portions in food and drink options. Leana Hobbs of Mena is the operator of the dual screen cinema and she is quite excited at the work that has transformed the building. The project has taken 18 months to complete. Hobbs stated that she wants the cinema to return the ambience of being able to enjoy ﬁrst - run movies, but also be able to enjoy seeing kids having fun in a safe atmosphere. Hobbs mentioned that some of the proudest things that she anticipates in the operation of the cinema is being more involved in the community, sponsoring events and doing more to help others in the Polk County region. Hobbs said that having the cinema back open in Mena, saves people the drive to Ida Bell, Oklahoma or to Fort Smith, in order to catch a movie with family or friends. With the commitment from the owner of the cinema, Greg Davis of Houston, Texas, Hobbs anticipates that it will be a fun and enjoyable experience for anyone that visits the two screen cinema. Manager Ariel Barner is excited as well

when showing the facility to well - wishers at the ribbon cutting ceremony. Barner stated that offering a partnership with Pizza Hut on providing slices or an entire pizza is being offered to movie customers. There will be specials offered for pizza, popcorn and drink or other offerings for nachos, hot dogs and candy. Sunday matinees will have a childrens movie and an adult movie offered for ﬁve dollars, with a special price of $1 dollar on popcorn or hot dogs. Barner also mentioned that special theme days is in the planning stages that could possibly include 50's themed movies and possibly an 80's era movie event. Currently, Hobbs and Barner have a staff of seven employees that are mostly responsible high school students. Hobbs wants to make sure that the older teenagers in the area have an opportunity to be productive citizens and feel good about helping their friends and neighbors when visiting the cinema. The cinema is open Thursday through Sunday. A single showing on Thursdays at 6pm. Two showings at 6pm and 8pm on Friday and Saturday, and then concluding with a matinee showings set for 3pm and 6pm on Sundays.

Hogs Dance Into March Madness of the NIT By: Sam Jordan The Arkansas Razorbacks will get to dance in March; just not to the BIG DANCE of the NCAA Mens Basketball Tournament. Instead, the Hogs will hit the road to Providence, Rhode Island and the 1st round of the National Invitation Tournament. Arkansas got the 5th seed in the bracket that features Indiana, Clemson, and Furman. The Providence Fryars are seeded 4th in the ﬁeld. The Razorbacks game with Providence is

slated for a 9pm tipoff. Due to the late game start, no score was available at presstime. You can tune in to 104.1 FM – KENA or online at www.mypulsenews.com to get the latest score and information. If the Hogs should win, they would then face either #1 seed Indiana Hoosiers or #8 seed Saint Francis, Pennsylvania Red Flash. If its Saint Francis, the Razorbacks would host the Red Flash in Fayetteville. If its Indiana, the Hogs would travel to Bloomington, Indiana.

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Reflections From Faith and History Anne Hutchinson -by Jeff Olson America has been a bastion and haven for religious freedom during her entire history as a nation. She remains unique in the world as a nation which has successfully balanced the claims of authority with the claims of freedom and in such a way that she has never become a theocracy or autocracy. This is in great part due to the principles embedded in our founding documents. We often refer back to our forefathers to render credit for setting America on a firm foundation which equipped her to become the great nation she is. However, we have also been as fortunate to have foremothers - women who were indispensable as pillars of strength in supporting their husbands and raising families. Some of these women made other substantial

contributions in their own right. One such woman, among the greatest in American history, I want to recognize this week. Anne Marbury was born in Alford, Lincolnshire, England in 1591. In 1612 she married William Hutchinson and eventually became a mother of 15 children. In 1634 they moved to the Massachusetts Bay Colony which was establishing political freedom and a representative form of government, but the Puritans permitted no religion except their own. In Boston Anne served as a midwife and sought to serve God through the Church but she disagreed with some tenets of Puritan theology, one of which claimed that people could communicate with God only through the aid of church officials. She was an outspoken person and

well-versed in Biblical theology, espousing a "covenant of grace" as opposed to a "covenant of works." Hutchinson made her views known and led Bible studies in her home which attracted a considerable number of people, including both women and men. Disagreement with the established church would not be tolerated by Puritan leaders and especially from a woman. This quarrel over religious doctrine, known as the "Antinomian Controversy," eventually escalated to the point that Hutchinson was ordered to leave the colony. She refused and was brought to trial in 1637, accused of betraying the laws of church and state. Her response was that the church's edicts were "for those who have not the light which makes plain the pathway." She believed that colonial officials should not have the authority to tell a person how to practice his or her faith. Three hundred eighty-one years ago, March 22, 1638, she was banished from

the colony after which she and her family moved to Rhode Island where she helped establish the settlement of Portsmouth. Threats of Massachusetts taking over Rhode Island compelled her and her family to move further away from Boston and into the lands of the Dutch, where she settled in what is now The Bronx in New York. In August 1643, she was among 15 of the 16 members of her household killed in an attack by the Siwanoy tribe. Anne Hutchinson should be remembered as a pioneer who took a stand for freedoms which more than a century later would be championed by the likes of George Mason, James Madison and Thomas Jefferson and which would be enshrined in our Constitution. In front of Boston's State House, there is a statue of Hutchinson with the inscription, "In Memory of Anne Marbury Hutchinson.....Courageous Exponent of Civil Liberty and Religious Toleration.

County Extension Service Kicks-Off Walk Across Polk County In an effort to promote exercise and fitness among Polk County citizens, the Quality of Life Outreach, Inc. and the Polk County Extension Service are excited to announce the kick off of the annual Walk Across Polk County (WAPC) exercise challenge. According to Bridgett Martin, County Extension Agent, “Our organizations’ main goal has always been to promote health and wellness to the citizens in Polk County. We know research proves that 150 minutes of exercise per week decreases risk of major health issues including: depression, heart attacks, hypertension, obesity, osteoporosis, some cancers and stroke. This is a great opportunity for individuals to get started with an exercise routine that will increase energy levels and

promote health. We are also encouraging our participants to begin making small changes to their diets and focusing on good sleep habits. These are all critical components for healthy living. In the past a lot of our teams have come from workforce around the area, but we would also like to encourage Polk County families to exercise together and participate as a team!” The 2019 WAPC will begin with the Team Captain meeting on Monday, March 25 at the Extension Education Building at 5:30 p.m. The team leader, or an appointed individual, are required to be present at the Team Captain Meeting. Each team member present will earn 50 points for their team total. This year’s team meeting is also the begin date for WAPC. Teams are

encouraged to “kick off” the program at an individual team event on their own, perhaps following the team captain meeting. Blood draws will also take place March 25-29 each day from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Mena Regional Health Center. This WAPC event consists of 8 member teams and has both “Competitive” and

“Let’s Get Moving” categories. There is a $10 registration fee which includes a t-shirt and free pre- and post- blood draws at Mena Regional Health System. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the program. For a team packet or for more information, contact the Extension Office at 3946018.

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Police Reports... The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

Polk County Sheriff’s Report March 11, 2019 Report from a Mena man that his adult granddaughter had not been seen in several days. The individual was later located in another jurisdiction. Report from Mena Regional Health System of a domestic violence victim. Deputies responded. Investigation continues. Report of a domestic disturbance on Highway 71 North near Mena led to the arrest of Korie N. Wilhite, 27, of Mena, on a Charge of Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. Report of a domestic disturbance on Polk 626 near Nunley led to the arrest of Melton R. Cannon, 53, of Mena, on a Charge of Aggravated Assault on a Family Member. Additional information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Mitzie M. French, 45, of Mena, on Charges of Possession of Meth/ Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and a Warrant for Violation of the Arkansas Hot Check Law. March 12, 2019 No reports were filed. March 13, 2019 Arrested was Jennifer R. Thompson, 50, of Mena, on a Charge of Obstructing Governmental Operations. March 14, 2019 Report from complainant on Muscadine Lane near Potter of prowlers. The subjects fled the area before deputies arrived. Arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department was Lawrence E. Houser, 32, of Grannis, on Warrants for Failure to Appear and Failure to Comply with a Court Order and two Colorado Warrants. March 15, 2019 Report of a stolen boat led to the arrest of Jeremy Ratcliff, 42, of Dardanelle, on Charges of Fleeing in a Vehicle, Fleeing on Foot, Public Intoxication, Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License, No Proof

of Insurance, Fictitious Tags and Theft of Property. Additional information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Hillcrest Lane near Mena of unauthorized persons in their home. Deputy responded. Arrested was Jason C. White, 36, of Mena, on a Child Support Warrant. March 16, 2019 Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Edwin A. Huber, 58, of Mena, on a Warrant for Probation Violation. March 17, 2019 Report from complainant on Highway 88 East near Ink of vandalism done to a vehicle. Investigation continues. Arrested was Justin L. Goins, 30, of Mena, on Warrants for Failure to Appear and a Parole Hold. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 14 Incarcerated Inmates , with 2 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

Mena Police Department Report March 10, 2019 Stephanie Gevalis, 32, of Mena was charged with theft of property (shoplifting) after officers responded to a call at a local retail store. Malcolm Wells, 32, of Mena was charged with endangering the welfare of a minor, fleeing in a vehicle, and resisting arrest. The arrest followed an attempted traffic stop. March 11, 2019 Jack Ray Cannon, 24, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the Mena Police Department. Natasha Drager, 20, of Mena was served an outstanding warrant for violation of Arkansas’ hot check law. March 12, 2019 A Mena woman reported that she is being harassed by an acquaintance. Case has been sent to the prosecutor for possible issuance of a warrant.

A Mena man reported that he is being threatened by his former girlfriend’s father. Case is pending. A local woman reported that she is being harassed by her former boyfriend. No charges have been filed at this time. March 13, 2019 Anthony C. Potts, 34, of Texarkana was charged with possession of a schedule VI controlled substance. The arrest followed a routine traffic stop. Robert Castillo, 50, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant. March 14, 2019 Officers responded to an alarm at a local business. It was discovered that someone had entered the building. Case is pending further investigation. Jonathan Colbert, 44, of Mena was arrested on an outstanding warrant. Report was made by employees at a local convenience store of someone attempting to pass a counterfeit $100.00 bill. Report was made of a glass in a bus stop being broken out. Case is pending. Kelly S. Watson, 32, of Mena was served an outstanding warrant from the Polk County Sheriff’s office. March 15, 2019 A local man reported that someone had stolen items from a vehicle parked on his carport. They also vandalized the pickup by spray painting letters on the side. Case is pending further investigation.

one count of endangering the welfare of a minor in the first degree. On or about March 10, 2019, the said defendant did refuse to submit to arrest by knowingly resisting a person known by him to be a law enforcement officer effecting an arrest, constituing a Class ‘B’ misdemeanor. The said defendant knowing that his immediate arrest or detention was being attempted by aduly authorized law enforcement officer, did flee by means of any vehicle or conveyance, manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life, which is a Class ‘D’ felony. And, the said defendant did being a parent, guardian, or person legally charged with care or custody of a minor purposefully engage in conduct creating a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to a minor, constituting a Class ‘D’ felony. Mitzie M. French, age 44, was arraigned on two counts. Count one was Possession of a schedule I controlled substance and count two of possession of drug paraphernalia. On or about March 11, 2019, the said defendant, unlawfully possessed Methamphetaamine a schedule II controlled substance in an amount less than two grams, constituting a class ‘D’ felony. The said defendant also did use or possess with the purpose to use drug paraphernalia to, store, contain, or conceal a controlled substance that is methamphetamine or cocaine, constituting a class ‘D’ felony.

Polk County Circuit Court Arraignments This week the following people were arraigned in Polk County Circuit Court. All information is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Marlena Parnell, age 49, was arraigned on one count of Possession of a schedule II Controlled Substance. On or about March 9, 2019, the said defendent, unlawfully possessed Methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in an amount of two grams or more but less than 10 grams, constituting a Class ‘C’ felony. Melton Ray Cannon, age 52, was arraigned on one count of domestic battery in the third degree. On or about March 11, the said defendent caused physical injury to Gloria May, having previously been convicted of the same offense on January 11, 2019. The county is a Clss ‘D’ felony. Malcom R. Wells, age 31, was arraigned on three counts: one count of refusal to submit to arrest, one county of fleeing, and

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Polk County Births

Mena Regional Health System March 8, 2019 - March 18, 2019

Samantha Coleman and Josh Hughes, of Mena, Arkansas, are the proud parents of a baby boy born March 12th. 3

Morgan and Robert Westfall, of Vandervoort, Arkansas, are the proud parents of a baby girl born March 14th.

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Caddo Hills High Senior Wraylin Rose Phillips Gets Good Citizen Award MENA, AR - Thursday, February 21, 2019, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) James K. Polk Chapter selected Caddo Hills High School senior Wraylin Rose Phillips as first-place winner in a Good Citizen Program and Scholarship contest. Phillipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essay was entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It: What new challenges will America face as we move forward into the future?â&#x20AC;? Phillips received a monetary prize, certificate, pin, and wallet card. The runner-up was senior Halie Nicole Standerfer of Mena High School, who received a monetary prize, certificate, pin, and wallet card. Also receiving a certificate, pin, and wallet card was senior Lauren Driver of Cossatot River High School. The tradition of giving the Good Citizen Program began many years ago. Today seniors at most Arkansas high schools submit essays in the annual competition, with local first-place winters ultimately competing for state and national scholarships. School counselor Julie Young coordinated with Caddo Hills High faculty in Phillipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selection in recognition of her qualities of good character, including dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism.

Cortez Copher, Regent, James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR, Wraylin Rose Phillips, First Place Winner, Julie Young, Caddo Hills Counselor Submitted by Cortez Copher, Regent Era Looney, representative James K. Polk Chapter, DAR

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Mena Choirs Achieve High Marks At Henderson State University... The Mena High School and Middle School choirs recently articipated in region choral performance assessment at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. The MHS BearCat Chorus earned an Division II Excellent ratings in Performance and in Sight Reading. The Mena Middle School Choir received Division II Excellent in Performance and a Division I Superior rating in Sight Reading. This is the first year since 2009 that the Middle School choir has participated in choral performance assessment. Ferroll "Tammy" Taylor is the director for both choirs.

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EARL DEAN HUGHES Earl Dean Hughes age 68 of Norman, Arkansas passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2019 in Fort

Smith, Arkansas. He was born on July 28, 1950 in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas to the late Raymond Hughes and the late Dixie Hensley Hughes. He was married to Lou Ann Belknap Hughes and was a machinist for U.S. Motors. Earl enjoyed being outdoors hunting, ﬁshing and working in his garden. He treasured all his time spent with family and friends. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all that knew him. He will be dearly missed by all. He is survived by his wife Lou Ann Hughes of Norman, Arkansas; his sons Nathaniel Ray Hughes of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Matthew Aaron Hughes and wife Megan of Mena, Arkansas, Christopher Lee Hughes of Oklahoma City, Okla-

GLADYS THOMPSON Gladys Thompson, 104, of Parks, Arkansas passed away March 15, 2019 at the Waldron Nursing Center. Gladys was born February 24, 1915 in Cedar Creek, Arkansas to Francis and Mary Elizabeth (Holly) Cook. Gladys is survived by three children; Gordon Thompson of Parks, Arkansas, Gaylon Thompson and wife Esther of The Villages, Florida, Evelyn Johnson of Mena, Arkansas, three grandchildren; Christopher and wife Jennifer Thompson of Ridgedale, Missouri, Bridgett Vincent of Waldron, Arkansas, Tanya Bennett of Trinidad, Colorado, four great-grandchildren; Ethan Vincent, Lane Black, Hannah Gilmore and Hunter Thompson.

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homa; daughter Krissi Carrol and husband Kevin of Tulsa, Oklahoma; grandchildren Jaxom Hughes, Jaydin Hughes, Dixie Hughes, Lincoln Carrol and Liam Carrol; brother Ricky Hughes of Oden, Arkansas, sisters Carolyn Dull of Roberts, Wisconsin, Chris Robertson of Palmetto, Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Dixie Hughes, brothers, Charles Ray Hughes and Joseph Raymond Hughes and grandson Michael Aaron Hughes. Funeral service were Monday, March 18, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at The Covenant of Life Family Church in Mena on the corner of 11th and Pine Street. Interment followed in the Sulphur Springs Cemetery with Brother Rusty Lewis ofﬁciating under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation was Monday, March 18, 2019 from 12:00-1:30 p.m. at the Covenant of Life Family Church in Mena. Obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, friends and other family. She is preceded in death by her parents; Francis and Mary Elizabeth Cook, husband Seth Thompson, one infant son Homer Thompson, one grandson Seth Steven Thompson and by two brothers and three sisters. Funeral service were held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday March 19, 2019 at Parks Methodist Church, Parks, AR, with Bro. Keith Holleman ofﬁciating. Burial followed the service at Thompson-Jameson Cemetery under the direction of Martin Funeral Home in Waldron. Pallbearers were Gordon Thompson, Gary Cook, Jeff Coley, Mark Keener, Christopher Thompson and Gaylon Thompson. Online condolences may be sent to www.martinfuneralhomes.com Caring for your family since 1928

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CALVIN V. GOFORTH JR. Calvin V. Goforth Jr., age 36, of Mena, Arkansas died Saturday, March 9, 2019. He was born on Tuesday, February 8, 1983 to Calvin and Kathy Huff Goforth in Monahans, Texas. C.J. was a Christian man and was passionate about helping people get to know God. He proudly served in the United States Army in Iraq as a specialist. He spent much of his adult life working on oil rigs as a derrick hand, motor man, and sometimes the assistant driller in Texas, Arkansas, and sometimes Oklahoma. C.J. loved his wife and family, and nothing was more important to him than their wellbeing. He was very proud of all his children and the people they were growing up to be. C.J. really liked sports and was an Alabama fan. He also really liked coaching different sports and getting involved with his children’s different sports teams. C.J. was always tinkering on something or looking for old coins and antiques, and he also liked to do abstract drawings when he had the time. He liked almost all music but was a true lover of Gospel. C.J. was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and a great friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

DELCIE “MARIE” GIBBONS Delcie “Marie” Gibbons age 93 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Monday, March 11, 2019 in Mena. Marie was born in Athens, Arkansas on February 7, 1926 to the late James Robert Burk and the late Georgia Kemp Burk. She was married to the late Fairol Gibbons for 63 years. Marie enjoyed reading her Bible, sewing quilts and raising a garden, also canning for her family and friends. She was awarded the President of Resident Council Club and won the “Sharpshooter” award in the nursing home. Above all she loved God and her family. Marie was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother and a friend to all who knew her.

C.J. is survived by his loving wife, Jaime Goforth of Mena; his parents, Calvin and Kathy Goforth of Hatfield; one son, Van Goforth of Mena; two daughters, Zoie Goforth of Mena, and Mia Goforth of Mena; three brothers, Cristopher Goforth and fiancé, Miranda, of Mt. Pleasant, Mississippi, Chris Chesser of Hatfield, and Paul Heath and wife, Vanessa, of Mena; two sisters, Cassandra Ann Croker of Monahans, Texas, and Catrina Marie Croker of Early, Texas; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. A funeral service were held Saturday, March 16, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hatfield School Auditorium in Hatfield, Arkansas, with Brother Dustin Cook officiating. Interment followed at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield. A visitation was held Friday, March 15, 2019 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas. Arrangements were entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the memorial account set up at the Union Bank of Mena. Pallbearers were Paul Heath, Todd King, J.J. Johnson, Jerod Stinson, Chris Chesser, and Scott Buss. Honorary Pallbearers were Anthony Mashburn, Jason Christian, Blake Christian, Joey O’Brien, Neal Thomas, and Brandon House. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com She is survived by her son, James Marcus Gibbons and wife Joyce of Cove, Arkansas; grandchildren: Leon Gibbons, Michele Roberts, Carl Wayne Gibbons, Rusty Gibbons and Brenda Gibbons; eleven great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren; special friend, Kerry Tomlin; and many other friends from the Rich Mountain Nursing Home She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Fairol Gibbons; son, Marvin Gibbons; granddaughter, Laura Gibbons; four brothers and two sisters. Funeral service were Friday, March 15, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Pleasant Grove Church of the Nazarene in Cove. Interment followed in the Cecil Chapel Cemetery with Brother James Squires and Brother Steve Bradley officiating. Pallbearers were Ray Bailey, Ronnie Gillaspy, Larry Cecil, Terry Scott, Timmy Scott, and Tom Bates. Honorary pallbearers were her grandsons. Obituary available at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

MARCH 20, 2019

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REX LEO BURNS, JR. Mr. Rex Leo Burns, Jr. of Mena passed away Friday. March 15, 2019 in

Mena, Arkansas . Rex was born in Herrick, South Dakota on August 25, 1928 to Rex Leo Burns Sr. and Ima Grimm-Burns. Rex was married to Carol Moran- Burns. He proudly served his country 26 years in the U.S. Navy and US Air Force. Rex was a Real Estate Agent and Broker; he ran a large hog operation in NE; he was well known for his animal farm near Acorn. He enjoyed telling his war stories, working outside, speeding in his Golf-cart and he loved his dogs Benton and Ludwig. Rex was always helping strangers and supporting his community. He was active in VFW Honor Guard, a Mason at Meadow Mountain Lodge #218 in Hatfield and Dallas Lodge in Mena. Rex also enjoyed traveling and squaring dancing and was very supported of all Military community organizations Above all he loved and enjoyed his family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Carol Moran-Burns of Mena, Arkansas; daughter, Dee Culver of Enid Oklahoma; five step-daughters: Sharon and husband Jimmy Hedrick, Karen and husband Kirk Fellows, Terrie and husband Bill Harry, Lisa and Husband Glen Yoakum, Kathy and husband Louis Loyd; two step-sons: Francis Zgleszewski and wife Lynna, and Walter Zgleszewski and wife Kelly; brothers: Allen Burns and wife Sandy, Danny Burns and wife Missy, David Burns, Robert Burns and wife Dani, and Gary Burns; sisters: Vivian Ruther, Lee Johnson, Betty and husband Willis Hayes, Mary Ann and husband Tim

Jobe, Judy Burns and friend Aaron Abrego, and Rena Stowell; grandchildren: Cindi Peavy, Dawn Marie Reed, Dusti Washnok, Kelli Dilldine, Ricky Burns, Daye Culver, Juli Pack, Jeremy Burns, Jason Burns and Skye Ransom; ten step grandchildren, twenty three great-grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Rex Leo Burns and Ima Grimm Burns; three wives: Dottie Fields-Burns, Wanda WoodBurns and Janet Pratt-Burns; two sons: Richard Burns and Jerry Burns; son-in-law Don Culver; sister Linda Burns; two brothers: Marvin Burns and Melvin Burns; brother-in-laws: David Stowell, David Johnson and Keith Ruther; two grandchildren: Charlotte Burns and Shawn Burns; and one great grandchild Little Ricky Burns. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, March 25, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church. Interment will be in National Cemetery in Ft. Smith, Arkansas at 2:00 p.m. under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Visitation will be 6:00-9:00 p.m. Sunday, March 24, 2019 at Beasley Wood Chapel with a Masonic Burial at 6:15 and Rosary will be said at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers family has asked for memorials to be made to Polk County VFW and DAV. Pallbearers will be Jeremey Burns, Jason Burns, Ricky Burns, Rex Burns, III, Tanner Culver and Randy Ransom. Honorary pallbearers are Eddy Rosen, Matthew Peavy, Dusti Washnock, Presely Reed, Cody Reed, John Harry, Josh Harry, Taylor Finley, Laredo Loyd and Joseph Pack. Online obituary available at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

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Area Hospital Employees Reaching Out to Community Leaders By: Sam Jordan Situations seem to be tough for a regional hospital in our area. Electric service has been disconnected and reconnected on most of the service accounts there. The DeQueen Regional Hospital employees met recently with UA Cossatot Chancellor Dr. Steve Cole and De Queen Mayor Jeff Brown about the dire circumstances

The hospital is not accepting new patients or conducting emergency services to patients and are telling callers to call 911 for the nearest source of emergency treatment. The hospital is on ambulance diversion to other facilities, though still open. No word if another healthcare operation would want to assume operations of the hospital.

“Your Bill Has Been Paid”

Several months ago my wife and I went to a restaurant here in Mena, just to have a good meal together. We went in, sat down, and over the next few minutes enjoyed that meal. Even as we were eating we knew that we would have to pay for it after it was over. When we finished and received the check I walked up to the cashier in order to square accounts. I handed her the check and extended my credit card. What came next was an unexpected blessing! The cashier looked at me and said, “Your bill has been paid.” I did not know that it had been paid, and I did not know who paid it, but that did not keep it from being done. It was a “done deal” and I did not owe even one penny… it was paid in full. When I read the Bible I am not simply looking for principles and doctrinal truths, though these are very important. What I look for most of all is to see the real Person behind the payment that has been made. In the restaurant I never knew who paid the bill, but I knew it had been paid. In the restaurant I never knew who paid the bill for us, but whether we knew who or what, it had happened, and as a result we were able to walk out, owing nothing! We were there, we ate the food, we owed the check, but Someone else paid it. I did not know who, but I did know that it was someone who cared for us, cared enough to bear the expense for us. How like the Real Jesus! Can one be forgiven who does not even know the bill has been paid? Does Jesus have that kind of love? Remember the cross, remember the horror of crucifixion, remember the awful pain that Jesus knew, and then remember what He said to those who drove the nails. They did not know what happened in those moments, but they heard the words: “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” Forgive them??? They didn’t deserve it, but they got it anyway. So what did they get? The word that Jesus used for forgiveness was “aphiami,” which is a Greek word that means to “throw something away.” Who is the One who spoke those words? The simple, quick answer is “Jesus Christ.” But that only does the work if one knows Who He is, and most simply do not. Grace is the word that we use, but we humans do not even begin to understand the Grace of God. Love is the word that we use, but we do not even have infantile understanding of what God’s love is. And it is spiritual arrogance of the worst kind to think that we who “see through a glass darkly” really know all that was behind the words “Father forgive them.” We just don’t. Because we know Him in the forgiveness of sins does not mean that we know all about Him; we just don’t. “My ways are higher than your ways as the Heavens are above the earth; My thoughts are higher than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55: 9). Study Him! Look at Him! He is the One Who “paid the bill” for us! He is the One Who went to the “cashier” and offered Himself as full payment! Check-out time comes for all of us, some soon, some late, but all of us must pass the “cashier.” And when we do will we hear the words “your bill has been paid… in full”? Was the payment enough for those who did not know that it was paid? What about those who never heard it? Was it good for them, too? The fact is that the Offering was altogether enough to cover the bill of all of us. On a spiritual level we were all “broke,” and had no means to pay what was owed. I like the old song: “We owed a debt we could not pay, He paid a debt He did not owe.” This does not mean that everyone will spend eternity in Heaven for there will always be those who will reject the payment. I did not know anything about those who paid my bill, except that they cared enough to do what they did. And that was enough. I may never see them, but I WILL SEE HIM! Praise God!

My name is Gene Stacks and I approve of this message.

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Child Abduction Response Teams By: Sam Jordan LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Police agencies across Arkansas can soon claim to be certified specialists at solving child abduction cases as a team. Several law enforcement officers spent Tuesday and Wednesday going through CART training. “They know the roles and responsibilities of everybody,” said Dr. Cheryl May, the head of the Criminal Justice Institute at the University of Arkansas. “They know what resources they have available.” May oversaw the series of tests that required officers from different cities and counties, work under the direction of Arkansas State Police. They gathered at the Game and Fish training center and went through mock exercises at Pepper’s Pond outside Mayflower. That’s where they deciphered clues from “witnesses” and “par-

Ouachita and Ozark - St. Francis National Forests Recreation Areas Opening for Season The Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are beginning seasonal openings of recreation areas and facilities in March. Visitors to the 1.8 million-acre Ouachita National Forest and 1.2 million-acre Ozark-St. Francis National Forests will find diverse recreational activities available to them. Recreation contributes greatly to the physical, mental, and spiritual health of individuals, bonds family and friends, instills pride in heritage, and provides economic benefits to communities, regions, and the nation. Forest visitors are encouraged to view a current listing of open sites by checking the respective websites for the Ouachita National Forest at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/ ouachita/recreation or call (501) 321-5202 and Ozark-St. Francis at https://www.fs.usda.gov/ recmain/osfnf/recreation or (479) 964-7200.

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ents” after “Lacy Lost” was reported missing by her grandmother. A Mayflower officer relayed details of an interview to a state police coordinator. Community Correction officers questioned three men from a “halfway house” across from where the supposed abduction took place. A crime scene detective photographed and bagged a backpack on the ground near the “bus stop.” “Anytime a child is abducted the stress level skyrockets,” said Capt. Jason Aaron, from ASP Troop H, as he commanded the operation center. “This helps us go in there with a plan. That speeds the process up.” After graders judge the teams on 47 criteria, Arkansas can claim a unique honor compared to other response teams. Colleen Nick and members of the Morgan Nick Foundation mingled in the crowd of police. She could see firsthand the advancements made since her daughter disappeared in 1995. “What we've been able to do in Arkansas is we will become the first state in the country to have statewide certified child abduction response teams,” said Dr. May. “And that means is that every kid in this state is protected.”

CRSD (Vandervoort Elementary campus) celebrated Read Across America the week of February 25-March 4, 2019. A contest was held to see which class could read the most books. The students read a total of 7155 books! The teacher of the winning class that read the most had to “battle” our principal, Mrs. Joiner! We also had a parade with the CRHS band leading us! A big thank you to the band and our Superintendent, Mr. Tankersley for walking with us!

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Acorn School Spring

Sports

SOFTBALL SCHEDULE DATE / TIME

OPPONENT

MARCH 20, 2019

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PLACE

3-7 / 4:00 Booneville Home 3-11 / 4:30 Waldron Home 3-12 / 5:00 Genoa Away 3-15 & 3-16 / TBA DMAC Tournament Away 3-25 / 5:00 Foreman Away 3-26 / 4:00 Hackett (DH) Home 3-29 / TBA Cossatot River Home 4-1 / TBA Dierks Away 4-4 / 4:30 Waldron Away 4-5 / TBA Gurdon Home 4-8 / TBA Horatio Away Mt. Ida Home 4-12 / TBA 4-15 / 4:30 Murfreesboro Away 4-22 - 4-27 / TBA District Tournament Acorn 5-2 - 5-4 / TBA Regionals Parker’s Chapel 5-9 - 5-11 / TBA State Salem at Mt. Home

BASEBALL SCHEDULE DATE / TIME

OPPONENT

PLACE

3-7 / 4:30 Caddo Hills (5 Inn DH) 3-12 / 4:00 Talihina 3-16 - 3-24 Spring Break 3-24 / 5:00 - 7:00 Sunday Practice 3-25 / 4:30 Foreman 3-29 / 4:00 Cossatot 4-1 / 4:00 Dierks 4-5 / 4:00 Gurdon 4-8 / 5:00 Horatio 4-12 / 4:00 Mt. Ida 4-15 / 4:00 Murfreesboro 4-18 / 4:00 Heavener 4-22 - 4-26 / TBA Conference Tournament 5-4 / TBA Regional Tournament 6-11 / TBA State Tournament

Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Away Dierks TBA TBA

TRACK SCHEDULE DATE / TIME

GRADE

PLACE

3-11 / 3:30 3-12 / 3:30 3-18 - 3-22 3-26 / 3:30 3-28 / 3:30 4-2 / 3:30 4-4 / 3:30 4-8 / 3:30 4-9 / 3:30 4-11 / 3:30 4-17 / TBA 4-18 / 3:30

7th Grade Boys & Girls Jr. Boys & Girls Spring Break Sr.’s Jr. Boys & Girls Jr. Boys & Girls Sr.’s 7th Grade Boys & Girls Jr. Boys & Girls Sr.’s Jr. District Fort Smith Invitational

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MARCH 20, 2019

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Bucks XCountry Trio Named Scholar All-Americans by NJCAA...

March 14, 2019 Mena, Ark. The NJCAA XCountry Coaches Association has named three Bucks XCountry athletes as Scholar All Americans. UA Rich Mountain Chancellor Dr. Phillip Wilson and XCountry Coach Samantha Shores surprised Marlenne Mendez, Miriam Mendez, and Alisa Kimble with the presentation of their plaques Thursday. Despite the high demands of the XCountry program, this trio maintained GPAs of 3.5 or higher in the Fall of 2018. Pictured from L-R: Marlenne Mendez, Miriam Mendez, Coach Samantha Shores, and Alisa Kimble.

PLAYER MONTH OF THE

COSSATOT COACHES SELECT #22

Jade

#15

Kolt

RICHARDSON Sr-Guard

STATS/GAME

in FEBRUARY

12 pts Team’s Best Outside Shooter Scored 20 pts in Regional Tourny Helped Lead Team to State Tourny parents Billy & Cindy Richardson

Parker Couch of Mena, pictured with his hand raised, competed at the Donnybrook in the Delta, March 16. Submitted photo.

Area Youth Boxer Makes Debut and Wins (SUBMITTED) Parker Couch, a 14 year old from Mena, made his amatuer boxing debut on Saturday, March 16th at The Donnybrook in the Delta” at the Historic Laura Conner Gym in Augusta, Arkansas. Parker boxed in the 201 pound and above division. According to reports, Couch faced a very strong opponent from the Azeez Boxing Club of Pine Bluff.

Couch scored an impressive 3rd Round TKO, with a combination of powerful body and head shots. Parker is the son of Sean and Valerie Couch of Mena, and is a member of the Defenders Boxing Club of Mena. He is next set to compete at the KO Cancer event set for May 4th at the Historical Armory in downtown Mena.

Luke Floyd Victorious at Kentucky

in FEBRUARY

“Most Improved Player” This Season Guarded Opponent’s Best Player Helped Lead Eagles to Regional Tourny vs. Junction City parents Carlton & Shelly Richardson

Farm Bureau agent, Mitch Sikes, presented game balls in recognition of their efforts in February. Farm Bureau Insurance is a proud supporter of Cossatot River High School athletics!

Mena Elks Lodge #781 Hoop Shoot winner from last month traveled to Paducah, KY to represent Arkansas at the next level. Kentucky Lodge #380 hosted the Central Region Championships where Polk County’s own, Luke Floyd, won the overall 12 & 13 year old division. Floyd competed against three other opponents representing Tennessee, Kentucky, and Missouri. Luke will compete at the next level in Chicago, Illinois at a later date.

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Recipients of the Mena Regional Auxiliary Scholarships Announced The Mena Regional Auxiliary recently awarded $1,000 scholarships to five students who are pursuing a career in the medical field. A record number of applicants was received for the spring scholarship program. The mission of the Mena Regional Auxiliary is to assist the hospital in providing

outstanding service to the community, managing and staffing the hospital gift shop, assisting through volunteerism, donating needs to hospital departments through various activities and events, and providing spring and fall scholarships to students who are pursuing a career in any area of healthcare.

The signature fundraiser for the organization is the Annual Christmas Breakfast, held the first Thursday in December. This community-wide event has successfully provided the Auxiliary with funds to continue awarding scholarships, while main-

taining funds to assist hospital departments. If you have a heart for the community and are interested in service and volunteerism, information regarding Auxiliary membership is available in the MRHS Administration office and gift shop.

Submitted photo: pictured from left to right: Linda Williams, Auxiliary President; Marilyn Davenport, Auxiliary Member; Kayla Blanton and Jared Standridge, Scholarship Recipients; Ewanta Turner and Sara Mitchell, Auxiliary Members. Not pictured: Chase Fielder, scholarship recipient. Submitted photo: pictured from left: Ewanta Turner, Auxiliary Member; McKenzi Spurgin, Scholarship Recipient; and Marilyn Davenport, Auxiliary Member.

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Submitted photo: pictured from left: Marilyn Davenport, Auxiliary Member; Rebekah Williams, Scholarship Recipient, and Ewanta Turner, Auxiliary Member

MARCH 20, 2019

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UA Rich Mountain SGA Leading Mission to Save AR Students [MENA, Ark. | March 11, 2019] Chancellor Dr. Phillip Wilson accompanied UA Rich Mountain’s SGA leadership: President Breanna Lewis; Skylar Beck, Public Relations; and member Raychel Woody to the State Capitol in Little Rock Monday for the kick off of Drug Prevention Week (March 11-15,2019). UA Rich Mountain has joined 18 other colleges and universities in a “Save AR Students” initiative. The students heard several speakers encouraging these student leaders to #SaveARStudents by ending substance abuse. Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Chad Fielding along with SGA Advisors Wendy McDaniel and Jason Wood also attended. This joint effort among the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas State University, Arkansas Tech University, University of Central Arkansas, Henderson State University, Southern Arkansas University, University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, University of Arkansas at Monticello, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, ASU Mountain Home, Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas, East Arkansas Community College, North-

west Arkansas Community College, Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, University of Arkansas Community College at Hope, University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain, and University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College is the first of its kind in such an effort and all hopeful that by joining forces to combat substance abuse across the state of Arkansas, a big impact can be made. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2017 Arkansas has the 2nd highest opioid prescription rate in the country at a rate of 105.4 percent per 100 persons, and based on information from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, youth ages 18-25 are at the highest rate for illicit drug use at 22.7 percent. Additionally 9.9% of College students are abusing Adderall compared to 6.2% of Non College adults according to drugabuse.org. Adderall is a stimulant effect on the central nervous system that can be both physically and psychologically addictive when overused. “It’s no secret that substance use is drastically affecting the state of Arkansas. It’s

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concerning that statistics have us towards the top for opioid prescriptions here in our state. It is very concerning seeing this issue affect our college campuses,” said Trevor Villines. U of A Rich Mountain will also host a ‘Dose of Reality’ presentation at 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 14 in the Ingles Lecture Hall located on the Mena Campus inside the Spencer Building. DOR is a statewide campaign which educates our youth and young adults about the dangers of prescription opioids. ADH has educational material and a DOR educational course available. The course is being taught throughout the communities and schools. ADH has nurses and health educators that provide the training. The training consists of a presentation with a pre and post survey and evaluation. The course length is between 30-45 minutes. Chancellor Dr. Phillip Wilson stated, “We

are grateful to be joining this state-wide initiative to bring additional awareness to this overwhelming issue. It is not discriminatory in who it affects and the ripple effects of it are far reaching. We can accomplish much when we come together as one. I’m incredibly grateful of our SGA’s leadership in this campaign.” Throughout the week participating institutions will be distributing informational flyers on prescription opioids, fentanyl, heroin, amphetamines, and the Joshua-Ashley Pauley Act. “Substance abuse has no borders. It affects people of different gender, race, and religion. If we’re going to do something about it, the time is now. We’ve got to roll up our sleeves, put politics aside, and come together as one. It’s up to us to Save AR State, Save AR Future, but more importantly Save AR Students,” said Trevor Villines.

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Winter Prescribed Fire Season Sows Seeds for Spring Renewal conditions, it removes under- ly those with respiratory conditions and alBenefits of Prescribed Fire Are Numerous... favorable brush and small trees, protecting these lergies,” said Graham. “Smoke directions RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. -- Winter months are a primary time for prescribed burning in the National Forests in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The vegetation is dormant, the temperature is cooler, and humidity is generally a bit higher. In short, the conditions necessary for prescribed burning often present themselves during this time of the year. For a myriad of environmental reasons, National Forest fire managers make use of this tool in the forests and mountains of the Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis. These include increasing wildlife habitat, reducing the occurrence and severity of wildfires, promoting new growth, and inhibit non-native invasive species. Mankind has used fire to cook, heat and hunt since the dawn of human civilization. Fire is one of nature's most essential agents of change. Nearly every region in the country has some kind of fire-dependent plant or tree. Many plants have evolved adaptations that protect them as a species against the effects of fire, and some absolutely must have fire to survive. When fires burn in intervals appropriate to their ecosystem, they consume leaf litter and other ground vegetation, like dead wood. This can trigger a rebirth of forests, helping to maintain native plant species. Over time, humans moved into fire prone areas, resulting in the role of fire being diminished in areas that crave it. “More and more, people are living in the path of wildfires. We obviously must suppress those fires,” said Josh Graham, Fire Management Staff Officer for the Ozark-St. Francis and Ouachita National Forests in Arkansas and Oklahoma. “When we reintroduce fire in a controlled environment, under the right conditions, we start achieving the benefits of fire’s natural role in the

environment, and accomplish it in a manner safer for humans.” Enter prescribed burning, the controlled application of fire by a team of trained fire managers under specified conditions that helps restore health to ecosystems that depend on fire. Prescribed fires help reduce the catastrophic damage of wildfire on our lands and surrounding communities by reducing excessive amounts of brush, shrubs and trees, referred to as fuels. It also encourages new growth of native vegetation, inhibits the encroachment of non-native plants and animals and maintains the many plant and animal species whose habitats depend on periodic fire. According to Graham, most forests and grasslands require multiple prescribed fires over a number of years to fully reach management objectives, but even a single fire can provide multiple benefits. “One prescribed fire can reduce wildfire occurrence and severity by reducing fuels, improve habitat for some wildlife species, reduce competition, enhance appearance, and improve access.” It’s no secret that forests play an important role in climate change, but only recently have we identified the role that prescribed fire may play. Trees store carbon, reducing the amount added to the atmosphere by factories, vehicles, and other sources. However, when these large trees burn down in a wildfire, that carbon is returned to the atmosphere. It can take decades for trees to regrow large enough to store the amount of carbon emitted in a single catastrophic wildfire. The good news is that we are able to protect larger trees and significantly reduce the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere by major wildfires when we reintroduce prescribed fire into our ecosystems. Since prescribed fire is applied under

larger, carbon storing trees and opening up the surrounding forest to allow them more room to grow. On an important side note, the smoke from a planned prescribed burn is significantly less than an out of control wildfire, which may burn for days, weeks, or even months. “We are sensitive to the fact that smoke has an impact on people, particular-

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Before and After Photos: Prescribed burns reduce wildfire occurrence, increase wildlife habitat, spur new growth of native species, and inhibit the spread of non-native invasive species.

are modeled based on weather predictions from the National Weather Service in order to avoid heavier populated areas. If the winds are predicted to impact a sensitive area, the burn is postponed.” To learn more about prescribed fire, check out the following resources online at www.goodfire.org

MARCH 20, 2019

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Cross Word Puzzle 03.20

3.20

Go Ahead, Exercise Your Brain!

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 3.13.19 E S R O H B H A C T A K R E E M X C

N F X Y W L R R N M H M J N I S E W

X F M C E R U A Y G O A F C X M R C

L J N M D P H V D Y O C T N Y V K S

O A A Q S P W D I N A R T E R R E F

I C J G E X O W V J A B I O E V C R

T E X L U K L E D L R P U L H H R E

T I E Z N A F D A A S N T T L L C X

H B B U I F R R E L R H M N Z A O T

Y F K B A R M F R E G D A B A F E Y

Humane Society of the Oauchitas

E S X R A A Z E G D R V G C K I V O

N A U A G V I L L C I A D O O R O Y C X Y G K M P S Z H M F T D P O K C C N A G N T S P L E Y I G V O C K N

G L G R O R O N I H P L O D L Q O X

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PET OF THE WEEK

Jasper is a big doggy that is very intensely in love with people. He was born apx. 9/10/17. He is a powerful guy and while loving, he has not had any training so he is not recommended for a home with small children for this reason. Because he is so people focused it is impossible to determine if he gets along with other dogs because he only wants to interact with the person he's with. When tested with other dogs he ignores them chooses instead to hug and hold the person walking him. What Jasper needs is a firm but gentle owner/s willing to teach him basic obedience or beyond. Jasper is intelligent, solidly build, impressive and ready to become a great friend! He uses a dog door. His perfect home has an active adult family that will match his enthusiasm and love of life!!

SPER

ALL ANIMALS AT HSO ARE SPAYED/NEUTERED AND ARE CURRENT ON THEIR VACCINATIONS PRIOR TO ADOPTION.

OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (479) 394-5682 • WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org •

HSO is a 501(c)(3) organization. Please consult your tax advisor to see if your donation is tax deductible.

D R A G

Weekly Publication Thursday, March 21st – • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – The Board Camp Baptist Church at 107 Country Road 63 will distribute food. • 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Mena/Polk County will meet at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Sue Cavner at 234-5844 or Linda Rowe at 234-2575 for more info. • 12:00 p.m. – Polk County Library Board will meet in the Susanna Mosley Community Room at the Library. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. - The Cove Branch of the Polk County Library is open. • 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Salvation Army Family Store helps families with utilities. • 5:15 Women Run Arkansas 10 week walking/running clinic meet at the Mena High School track. Preparation for 5K in May or to kick off a fitness routine. • 5:30 p.m. – Weight Watchers meets at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Education Wing, West End. Call 479234-2297 for more information. • 5:30 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Meeting at the ABC Club at 1159 Hwy, 71, S., Mena. 479216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 6:00 p.m. – Acorn Water monthly meeting at the Water Office. • 6:00 p.m. - GriefShare weekly seminar/support group meeting at the Ouachita Regional Hospice, 602 DeQueen St., Mena. Meeting for anyone in the community who is grieving the death of a loved one. • 6:30 p.m. – Disaster Preparedness Group meets at Assembly of God Church, 2111 Sutherland Ave. in Mena. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn next The Crossing Church. • 7:30 p.m. – Dallas Masonic Lodge #128 meets at the Mena Lodge located in the Old Post Office by Janssen Park. Friday, March 22nd – • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 12:00 p.m. – PCDC Board of

Directors will meet in the MRHS Conference Room A. • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Fibers Arts Group meets at Mena Art Gallery. • 12:00 p.m. – The Lions Meetings are held in the Lions Club House on Highway 71 South. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn next The Crossing Church. • 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Hatfield Auditorium Country-Western Dance Admission is $6 and 50/50 drawing. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. Saturday, March 23rd – • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. 479-243-0297 or 479-216-4606. Sunday, March 24th • 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 3:00 p.m. – Worship service is held at Sulpher Springs Church. • 5:00 p.m. – United Methodist Youth Group at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. Monday, March 25th – • 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – God’s Feeding Hands Mission Center gives out FREE groceries, toiletry items, clothing, Bibles and many more for the needy. Located at 1200 Reeves Ave. Accepting donations of nonperishable foods/clothing/tax deductible monetary donations. • 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. – The Cove Branch Library will be open. • 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. • 6:00 p.m. - Clarice’s Room of Hope group gathering will be held at 403 North Morrow St., Suite C. • 6:00 p.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 meeting at Limetree Restaurant. Meeting follows meal. • 6:00 p.m. – We The People Tea Party meets at Papas Mexican Restaurant. • 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of

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America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-243-0297. • 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meets at the old bus barn next The Crossing Church. • 7:00 p.m. – Mena Elks Lodge meeting. All Elks are invited to attend. Tuesday, March 26th • 8:00 a.m. – The Reynolds Gardener Community Men’s Breakfast at the First United Methodist Church in Mena. • 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. The written portion of the drivers test will be given at the Morrow Street Housing Authority, and as long as road conditions are optimal the driving portion of the test will be given. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission is open in the 9th Street Ministries Building. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – “Art Day” at Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St. Bring your current project and work with other artists. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Hatfield Branch library will be open. • 1:00 p.m. – Railroad Safety Presentation hosted by UA Rich Mountain for the community as part of Operation Lifesaver. Presentation will be in the Ouachita Center on the UARM campus. • 5:00 p.m. – T.O.P.S. will meet in the Union Bank Community Room for weigh-ins, followed by a meeting. • 5:15 Women Run Arkansas 10 week walking/running clinic meet at the Mena High School track. Preparation for 5K in May or to kick off a fitness routine. • 6:00 p.m. – Meeting for anyone interested in volunteering at the Polk County Fair. Meeting held in the Educational Building; open to adults, 4H and FFA members and other youth interested in being on the Junior Fair Board. • 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Polk County Housing Authority Community Room live country and gospel music. • 7:00 p.m. – The Marine Corps League Detachment will meet at The Limetree Restaurant, Mena. For more

information, call 479-234-0769. • 7:30 p.m. – Mountain Meadow Masonic Lodge #218 will meet at the Hatfield Lodge. • 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. 479-2342887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday, March 27th – • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Shepherd’s Closet open at First Baptist Church 4802 Hwy 71 S Hatfield, AR 870-389-6412. Accepting and distributing clothing/usable household items/and nonperishable food items. • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Humane Society of the Ouachitas is open at 366 Polk Road 50. • 12:00 p.m. - The Emergency warning sirens will be tested in Mena. • 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – The Polk County Library Cove Branch is open. • 5:30 p.m. – Dinner at Christ Community Fellowship followed by services at 6:15 p.m. services for Youth, Children’s Activities, Young Adult and Adult Bible studies. • 5:30 p.m. – Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Bible Study Service. • 5:45 p.m. - The Mena First United Methodist Church Kidz will meet. • 6:00 p.m. – Warriors for Christ will meet at the Southside Church of God. • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Trek and Varsity for Middle and High School students at Grace Bible Church, 1911 Hwy 71 N. Mena. All Area Middle and High School students are welcome. • 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous at the ABC Club, 1159 Hwy 71, S., Mena. 479-216-4606 or 479-2430297.

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LEGAL LISTING

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Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting, home repair, decks, privacy fences, fence rows, underpinning, etc. Also lawn and garden work. Call 479-216-1101 or 479-216-2299 T32719

Complete Yard Care, Odd Jobs and more! When you need an extra hand, call me! Mena, Arkansas and Polk County area- 479-234-0509 T110619 Gray’s Light Tractor Service. Garden tilling, driveways, large lot mowing, bush-hogging. Reasonable rates. Reliable service. (479) 234-3113. 040319

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Clean and comfortable housing since 1969, No Pets. J. Ray & Maria’s MH Park and Rentals. Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR. 479-216-3085 TFN

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3 Bedroom, 3.5 bath approximately 2,300 sq ft with whole house generator. 10 acres, 2 large shop buildings on Iron Mountain $159,000. Call John (479) 2433775. 040319

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- HELP WANTED BRODIX INC. is accepting applica-

tions for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T032719

PCDC, Inc. Our organization is seeking a fabulous Assistant Director who can help carry out and execute the vision and plans of Polk County Developmental Center, Inc. (PCDC) This individual should have experience leading others, enthusiasm and organizational skills to be able to assist with the day-to-day operations of a multi-faceted developmental center. Experience working with adults and/or children with developmental disabilies is preferred. Applications taken until filled. T041019 An experienced Day Care Worker to run a church nursery in Mena on Sunday morning along with possible other events. The position is a paid hourly wage. Contact 479-394-4092 for further info or to receive an application. T32719

BRODIX INC. is accepting applica-

tions for an experienced CNC Machine Operator. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T032719

F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T032719

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PROPOSED BUDGET OF EXPENDITURES WITH TAX LEVY FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2020 TO AND INCLUDING JUNE 30, 2021 The Board of Directors of Cossatot River School District of Polk County, Arkansas, in compliance with the requirements of Amendments No. 40 and No. 74 to the Constitution of the State of Arkansas and of Ark. Code Ann. § 6-13-622 has prepared, approved and hereby makes public the proposed budget of expenditures, together with the tax rate, as follows: 1. Salary Fund Expenditures $ 6,419,000 2. Instructional Expense $ 2,528,000 3. Maintenance & Operation Expense $ 1,446,000 4. Dedicated M & O Expense $ 0 5. Pupil Transportation Expense $ 571,000 6. Other Operating Expense $ 898,000 7. Non-Bonded Debt Payment $ 212,780 $ 590,872 8. Bonded Debt Payment To provide for the foregoing proposed budget of expenditures, the Board of Directors proposes a total school tax rate (state and local) of 44.0 mills on the dollar of the assessed value of taxable property located in this School District. The proposed tax includes the uniform rate of tax (the "Statewide Uniform Rate") to be collected on all taxable property in the State and remitted to the State Treasurer pursuant to Amendment No. 74 to the Arkansas Constitution to be used solely for maintenance and operation of schools in the State. As provided in Amendment No. 74, the Statewide Uniform Rate replaces a portion of the existing rate of tax levied by this School District and available for maintenance and operation of schools in this District. The total proposed school tax levy of 44.0 mills includes 25.0 mills specifically voted for general maintenance and operation and 19.0 mills voted for debt service previously voted as a continuing levy pledged for the retirement of existing bonded indebtedness. The surplus revenues produced each year by debt service millage may be used by the District for other school purposes. The total proposed school tax levy of 44.0 mills represents the same rate presently being levied. GIVEN this 14 day of March, 2019.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF COSSATOT RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT OF POLK COUNTY, ARKANSAS /s/ Mike Fortner PRESIDENT OF BOARD /s/ Alex Wade SECRETARY OF BOARD

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Do You Love the Fair? Then Volunteer... Polk County Fair is run entirely by volunteers. More volunteers are always needed. In the Education Building, superintendents are needed to check in and organize the exhibits for display. Exhibits on display include Photography, Artwork, Junior Arts and Crafts, Adult Household Crafts, Needlecrafts, Quilts, Food Preservation, Baked Goods, Horticulture, Farm Crops, Garden Crops and Forestry Displays. 4H and FFA youth show animals including poultry, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, lambs, market hogs and beef cattle. The Commercial Building has booths for businesses to advertise their services. The concession stand is staffed by volunteers and help is always needed cooking and serving food. Volunteers are needed to collect entry fees

at the gates. There will be a meeting on Tuesday, March 26 at 6:00 pm in the Education Building at the fairgrounds for anyone interested in volunteering at the fair. If you have been to the fair and have ideas or suggestions for improvements, come to the meeting. If you have never been to the fair, come to the meeting to see what you have been missing. We also need some ideas and help constructing display boards to hang some artwork and displays. 4H and FFA members and other youth interested in being on the Junior Fair Board are invited to attend this informational meeting. Polk County Fair will be held August 27 – September 1, 2019. For more information call the Extension Office at 479-394-6018.

Minimum Wage in Arkansas LITTLE ROCK – In the election last fall, the voters of Arkansas approved an increase in the state’s minimum wage. It will rise to $11 an hour by January 2021. Some non-profit organizations, small businesses, and others are concerned that a mandatory increase in wages will hurt their operations and even their ability to survive. I understand their concerns. That is why I expressed reservations about the minimum-wage increase when it was on the ballot. But the people have spoken. Today, I wanted to remind all employers that relief is available based upon a provision in law that is already in place. Current state law allows an employer to pay a full-time student at 85 percent of the applicable minimum wage under two

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conditions. First, a student who works no more than 20 hours per week when school is in session is exempt. And a student who works no more than 40 hours per week when school isn’t in session is exempt. In order to take advantage of the exemption, an employer must obtain a certificate or waiver from the Arkansas Department of Labor. Colleges and universities are also exempt from paying the state minimum wage to students who are enrolled at the school and also are employed at the school. The school must pay at least the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour. These existing exemptions to the state minimum-wage law offer employers some flexibility. I have directed the Department of Labor to increase awareness of this waiver and to expedite approval of waivers for employers. You may call Lindsay Moore at the Department of Labor at 501-682-4534 or contact him by email at lindsay.moore@ arkansas.gov with questions about the waiver. I am confident that the existing provisions are sufficient to provide relief without doing damage to the will of the people as expressed at the ballot box last November. The two-part exemption application is HERE. The employee and employer each must complete and sign the application. Applicants may deliver it in person or mail it: 10421 West Markham, Little Rock, 72205; email it: asklabor@arkansas.gov; or fax it (501) 682-4506.

MARCH 20, 2019

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