Polk County Pulse March 3, 2021

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

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March 3, 2021

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March 3, 2021

County takes conference by storm

Mena, Acorn and Cossatot head to Regional tournaments The Mena Lady Cats, the Cossatot River Lady Eagles, and both the Acorn Tigers and Lady Tigers will advance to Regional Tournament action this week after their conference tournaments wrapped up over the weekend.

The Mena senior girls knocked off Nashville in the 7-4A Conference Tournament championship game 45-39 at Scrapper Arena Saturday afternoon. Madi Lyle led the LadyCats with 21 points. The Mena girls, as the #1 seed from 7-4A, will battle the Crossett Lady Eagles Wednesday morning at 10:00 in the Class 4-A South Regional Tournament in Star City.

The Cossatot Lady Eagles won their conference championship in Danville Friday night 4638. The Lady Eagles will tangle with West Fork in the opening round of the Class 3A Regional Tournament at Bergman High School Wednesday afternoon at 4:00.

The Acorn senior teams played host to Mansfield Saturday in conference tournament championship action. The Lady Tigers claimed the team title with a 67-60 victory. The Acorn girls will battle Yellville-Summit in the opening round of the 2A West Regional Tournament at Magazine High School Wednesday morning at 10:00.

Meanwhile, the Tigers were the runners-up in the conference tournament after dropping a 54-51 decision to Mansfield Saturday. The Acorn boys meet Arkansas Arts Academy from Rogers in the opening round of the regional tournament in Magazine Thursday evening at 7:00.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse School Board Brief

The Mena School Board met on Tuesday night for their February meeting.

This meeting was originally scheduled for February 16th but was postponed due to weather.

It was a short agenda & as usual the meeting began with the Mr. Benny Weston’s superintendents report. He updated the board on the current legislative session, today’s covid vaccine clinic & a small amount of damage that happened during the recent winter weather event.

In new business Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lee Smith addressed the board on the latest info on ESSER 2 funds, including ideas on how those funds will be spent & the approval process. ESSER funds are to be used to close the achievement gap & engage virtual students. The Mena Public Schools currently has a total of 166 students taking advantage of the blended/virtual option.

Including 26 at Louise Durham, 19 at Holly Harshman, 28 at Mena Middle School & 93 at Mena High School. Plus 44 that are enrolled in the Polk County Virtual Academy.

Next on the agenda was the board candidate filing period. Those board members seeking re-election will have till noon on March 1st to file. The election will be held on May 18th.

Weston then updated the board on the updated quarantine guidelines. Most of which dealt with new procedures after vaccination has been completed. Covid numbers in the district have been dropping & following the nationwide trend.

Personnel was the final item to be discussed & there were a number of moves made. Those employees submitting their retirement plan included Lori Goodner, Leslie Daniel, Emma Lott, Vicki Maye, Patricia Self, Kathy Smallwood, Joe Bunch & Elizabeth Cox. All were accepted.

Next was the renewal of administrative contracts & restructuring. The contracts of principals David Maxwell, Tamara Smart & Jimma Holder were renewed. Those changing positions include Bridget Buckley to assistant superintendent &Todd Coogan to Mena Middle School Principal. Also Shane Torix will have additional duties as administrator of student support services & HHE building manager. Torix will retain his duties as director of safety and security as well as athletic administrator. Those changes were approved.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 3, 2021

Radio - Print - Web CITY OF MENA ANNOUNCES SPRING CLEAN-UP 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com

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Ashley Smith- General Manager Jeri Pearson - Editor Tori Stockton - Production Manager John Russell - Graphic Design Trey Youngdahl- Digital Producer Curt Teasdale - Programmer/ On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Justin Richmond - Receptionist Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Brooke Rose - Account Executive Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Ryan Lewis & Zane Steele The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000.

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The City of Mena Annual Spring Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. City trucks will pick up items you want to dispose of at no charge.

This Clean-up service is free for residences within the City limits of Mena only.

Please follow the below listed regulations to ensure that the pick-up runs smoothly.

Materials will not be picked up unless they are placed at the curb-side and separated. Street Department personnel can not go onto private property to assist in moving items.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO SEPARATE ANY ITEMS THAT YOU WANT TO KEEP AWAY FROM THOSE THAT ARE TO BE DISCARDED (such as trash cans) The following items cannot be picked up: concrete, brick, rocks, dirt, shingles, batteries, and construction debris.

Please separate your items to be discarded into 5 distinct piles as follows: 1. Furniture--couches, chairs, televisions, window frames, etc.

2. Household trash--paper items, etc.

(Please place trash cans, that you wish to keep, to one side so that they will not be disposed of inadvertently) 3. Metal material--hot water heaters, stoves, appliances, etc.

4. Yard waste--tree limbs, shrubs, grass, etc.

5. Tires Note - it is required that all yard debris, such as small limbs, gum balls, and leaves, be placed in garbage bags.

The Mena Street Department will begin pick up in the Northwest part of the city and work their way across town following the same routes as Southern Disposal.

Trucks will run 1 to 3 days after the day of your normal trash pick-up. The response to this Clean-Up is usually overwhelming, so please be patient if the trucks are running somewhat behind the posted schedule; however, each route will only be covered one time. It is not necessary to call City Hall in order to receive this service.

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The book Ecclesia VS. Church: Why Understanding the Difference is Critical to our Future, written and published by Ted R. Weiland, is offered at no cost to readers by mail at: Bible Law Vs. U.S. Constitution P.o. Box 248 Scottsbluff, NE 68363 or it can be read online at www.bibleversusconstitution.org.

When obedient to our ecclesia commission, these biblical communities will be established not on the Ten Commandments alone, but upon the Ten Commandments AND their respective civil judgments enforcing the Ten Commandments and their statutes.

- Harold Christopher

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse State House of Representatives

March 3, 2021

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In the 7th week of the 2021 Regu- rizes a one-time scholarship to a medical lar Session, the House student who completes their undergradpassed bills addressuate requirements for acceptance into ing taxes, medical care, medical or osteopathic school within scholarships, the duty to 24 months. After successful completion retreat, and more. of their first year of medical training, The following tax that student may receive $30,000 to be measures were advanced applied toward the completion of their by the House: medical degree.

HB1023-This bill exHB1224 establishes the State Crime cludes certain school John Maddox Laboratory Student Loan Forgiveness fundraisers from the Program. This would allow a patholosales tax laws regulation special events. gist to enter a probationary period with HB1374-This bill amends the law con- the State Crime Lab. After that probacerning which sales by charitable orga- tionary period, the lab could reimburse nizations are exempt from sales and use the pathologist $25,000 for outstanding tax. It allows an organization to exempt student loans for a 2 year contract up and sales from up to 10 events. The previous renew the contract for up to $100,000 per limit was 3. pathologist.

SB236-This bill exempts unemployThis week, the House passed SB24. ment benefits paid in 2020 and 2021 Commonly known as the Stand Your from state income tax.

Ground bill, it removes the duty to retreat HB1049-This bill allows the state to before using physical or deadly force. withhold state income taxes from unemOther bills passing the House this week ployment benefits starting in 2022. include: HB1361-This bill would exempt HB1426-This bill establishes the ArCOVID-19 relief loans for small busikansas Fair Food Delivery Act. It states nesses, such as the Paycheck Protection that a food delivery platform shall not Program (PPP), from state income tax.

Several bills addressing public health arrange for the delivery of a food order from a food facility without first entering passed this week including: HB1434-This bill creates the Alzhei- into an agreement with the food facility mer’s Disease and Dementia Advisory expressly authorizing the food delivery Council. The council will research the platform to take orders and deliver food.

SB136-This bill allows public utilities needs and services available to the nearto recognize renewable natural gas and ly 50,000 Arkansans living with Alzheiallow gas utilities to remove barriers to mer’s disease and other dementias. purchase the alternative fuel.

HB1215-This bill grants full practice SB165-This bill brings Arkansas law authority to certified nurse midwives. into alignment with federal law to allow HB1254-This bill states the Arkansas termination or cancellation of a resiMedicaid Program shall recognize an dential lease when a soldier or airman is advanced practice registered nurse for all purposes as a primary care provider au- assigned to a permanent change of duty thorized to carry out the duties of a pri- station that is located more than 50 miles from his or her primary residence or mary care case manager.

HB1177-This bill authorizes emer- when he or she is discharged or released gency medical services personnel to ad- under honorable conditions from active minister certain emergency prescription military service.

HB1317-This bill makes it a Class D medications to a patient with a health condition that requires specialized treat- felony to steal a postal package from the porch or premises of a residence. Curment.

We passed two measures aimed at re- rently, the offense is a misdemeanor.

Close to 1,000 bills have been filed so cruiting needed professions in Arkansas.

HB102 creates the First Year Medical far this session and more than 150 bills Student Scholarship Program. It autho- have been signed into law.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Obituaries 5

March 3, 2021

Kervin Joseph Crochet

Kervin Joseph Crochet, age 75, of Mena, Arkansas died on Friday, February 25, 2021 at John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans' Hospital in Little Rock. He was born on Friday, September 14, 1945 to Walter Wallace and Rose Mae Ledet Crochet in Houma, Louisiana.

Kervin proudly served in the United States Army in the Artillery during the Vietnam War. He was really proud of being able to work and do all the different things his father taught him. Kervin was an avid bass fisherman and loved to go fishing on the lake. He worked in the shrimping industry, on drilling rigs, oil and sulfur fields and retired from the Terrebonne Parish School System and then moved to Mena and worked for Mena School System and was a carpenter. Kervin loved baseball and the New York Yankees. Kervin was a life time member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 630 in Houma, Louisiana and was president for 3 years; and the VFW, American Legion and DAV. Kervin was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Kervin is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Betty Jo Crochet of Mena; three daughters, Annette Crochet, Carla Broussard and Toni Adams all of Chauvin, Louisiana; step son, Terry McBride of Mena; step daughter, Regenna Ray Babin of Huffman, Texas; two brothers, Curtis Crochet of Pointeaux-Chênes, Louisiana; and Larry Crochet of Santa Fe, Texas; two grandchildren, Paul Brossard and Jacob Adams both of Chauvin, Louisiana; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at 1:00 P.M. at the Muse Cemetery in Muse, Oklahoma with service entrusted to

Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 27, 2021 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.

Pallbearers will be Larry Crochet, Bobby Fletcher, Terry McBride and David Johnson.

Paul Dean Jones

Paul Dean Jones, age 74, passed away February 10, 2021 at his home in Mena, Arkansas. He was born to the late Bruce and Irene Jones on May 5, 1946 in Mena, Arkansas.

Paul loved his country and proudly served in the United States Navy. He then spent his life working in the automobile industry. All who knew him knew of his affinity for cars. Paul loved to fish and travel. He enjoyed Rattlesnake Roundup in Sweetwater, Texas.

Most of all Paul loved to tell stories and could talk your ear off.

He is survived by his sons, Phillip Jason Jones of Pensacola, Florida, Shannon Wayne Jones and wife Dawna of Farmington, Arkansas; grandchildren; Anja Jones of Lilian, Alabama, Aiden Jones and mother Sandra of Lillian, Alabama, Kaylee Jones of Farmington, Arkansas, and Macee Jones of Farmington, Arkansas; great grandchildren, Jason Hermecz of Lillian, Alabama, and Asher Hermecz of Lillian, Alabama; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Paul is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Rufus Jones, and Billy Jones.

Paul will be sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley- Wood Funeral Home.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 27, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. in the Beasley- Wood Chapel with Dr. William Duke Jones officiating.

Honorary Pallbearers are Butch Davis, Audrey Cost, Anthony Efird, Leroy Friend, “Buzzy” Burton Huber, Brian Kesterson, Paul Horne, Matt McDonald, Larry McMillan, and Stan Chaney.

Charles Eugene Murphy

Charles Eugene Murphy of Vandervoort Ar age 82 passed from Earth on February 23, 2021 in his home in Brooklet, Georgia.

He was born on May 5, 1938 to the late Walter Willliam Murphy and Nora Lane in Newport, Arkansas. Charles loved to fish, hunt for crystals and other interesting rocks, loved spending time with his family and friends, and was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Statesboro, Georgia.

He was survived by his wife Marla Jean Riley-Brooklet GA, sons Charles Murphy Jr.- Fordice AR, Walter MurphyOzark AR, Travis Murphy- Vandervoort AR, daughters: Tami Murphy- Dallas TX, Nora Robinson - Vandervoort AR, Deantha Gibbons - Vandervoort AR. 5 step sons Jasson Smythe, Tommy Smythe, Johnny Smythe, Jeremiah Smythe, and Jared Smythe. Along with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his late wife Barbara Murphy, brother Larry, sister Dorthy, and his children Randy and Mandy Murphy.

Charles has donated his body to medical science, in which he will later be cremated and returned to be buried by his late wife Barbara in Wickes, AR. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be sorely missed by all.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday March 6, 2021 at 2:00 at Live Oak Baptist Church in Cove, Ar. All family and friends are welcome to attend and celebrate his life and share their stories of him.

Joyce Marie Bissell

Joyce Marie Bissell, age 76, of Mena, Arkansas passed away on February 21, 2021 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born to the late Cassius and Phyllis Hennings on July 4, 1944 in Ort-

ville, Minnesota.

Joyce unselfishly spent her entire life taking care of others. She always put everyone above herself. She was a symbol of strength while raising her children who say they are very blessed to have her as a mother. Joyce always had a smile on her face and adored her children and grandchildren, whom she lovingly referred to as the sunshine of her life. She was a woman of God and loved the Lord.

She is survived by her sons, Thomas Bissell Jr., Teale Bissell, and Otis Bissell and wife Maetosha; daughters, Brenda Newbolt and husband Billy, and Bertha Crawford and husband Wendell, grandchildren, Shannon Bissell, Shawna Martin, Brandy Johnson, Jodie Barker, Brandon Newbolt, Teesa Croft, Lisa Pack, Tim Crawford, Emily Madison, Stetson Bissell, Bradlee Bissell, Aaron Bissell, Ashlynn Bissell, Allyson Bissell, and Aaden Bissell; 12 great grandchildren; 10 great great grandchildren; and brothers, Butch Hennings and wife Francis, Junior Hennings, and Richard Hennings and wife Regina.

Joyce is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Bissell Sr.; her parents; and a sister, Ardell Gallego.

Funeral Service will be Thursday February 25, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. in the Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Ron Tilley officiating. Interment will follow at Nunley Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday February 24, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. in the BeasleyWood Chapel.

Pallbearers will be Tim Crawford, Brandon Newbolt, Stetson Bissell, Aaron Bissell, Bradley Bissell, and Aaden Bissell. Honorary pallbearers will be Josh Pack, Johnny Rodriguez, Bobby Gallego, Tony Gallego, Donald Hennings Jr., Nathan Stone, Joshua Hennings, Gordon Gallego, Wes Hennings, Brier Newbolt, Braxton Newbolt and Blake Newbolt.

Obituaries Continued on Page 6

6 Obituaries

Pulse

March 3, 2021

Funeral service will be Wednesday, Loyd March 3, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Concord Edward Baptist Church in Ink, Arkansas. InterShrum, Jr. ment will follow in the Concord Cem-

Mr. Loyd Edward Shrum, Jr., age 80 of Mena, passed away Saturday, February 27, 2021 in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Loyd was born March 17, 1940 in Alba, Texas to the late Loyd Eugene Shrum and the late Rozella Buchanan Shrum. Mr. Shrum worked at U.S. Motors for many years. Loyd had many loves in life, working with his cows, fishing, and holding babies being among his favorites. He was very proficient at heckling and joking around. Another one of his great joys was going to the Ink Community Fire Department meetings and fundraisers. Above all, he loved his family.

Mr. Shrum is survived by son, Loyd Wayne Shrum of Ink, Arkansas; honorary son, Daniel Sharp of Malvern, Arkansas; honorary daughters, Lora Cross of Mena, Arkansas and Alicia Drake Lewis of Mena, Arkansas; brother, Perry Shrum of Angleton, Texas; Sisters, Linda Piwonka of Clute, Texas, Raynelle Presley of Lake Jackson, Texas and Laverne Chandler of Colfax, Louisiana; Grandson, Samuel “Sammy” Cross; and a host of nieces, nephews and other family members too great to mention. Loyd was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife of 33 years, Hereminia Herenandez Moreno Shrum and his second wife, Sybil Shrum; brother, Donald Mac Shrum; paternal grandparents, B.F. and Beulah Shrum, grandma and grandpa Porter and grandma and grandpa Smith.

THE POLK COUNTY

etery under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 2, 2021 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Sharp, Chris Looney, Lorne Martin, Wesley White, Jessie Orthman, and Mike Cross.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Hansbrough, Stan House, Ink Fire Department, his many friends from U.S. Motors, and friends and neighbors of Ink, Polk County and the surrounding area.

James Andrew Wiles

James Andrew Wiles, 93, went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 22, 2021, in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Juanita, their children and spouses Juquita and Mike Feeley of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Pam and Paul Robinson of Brenham, Texas; and Lowell Wiles and Paula Miller of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. James is also survived by two sisters (Wanda and Vera Mae) and a brother (Benny). James leaves a legacy of love including 7 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

James “Andy” Wiles was born in Quinton, Oklahoma, on May 12, 1927, to Louie G. and Ruby Wiles and was the third of 10 children. He grew up in Polk County, Arkansas, before joining the Army Air Force at the beginning of what became a 21-year career in the military. After his retirement from the military, he served as a full time minister in several Assemblies of God churches in Arkansas and Texas.

He was a master storyteller. He entertained his grandchildren and children with captivating stories, creating memories that will last a lifetime. He loved learning and enjoyed conversation on almost any topic with friends, family, or strangers. He liked people, and people liked him back. He lived his faith, loved his family, and always kept a positive

outlook. James died peacefully and will be laid to rest in Fort Gibson National Cemetery with full military honors on March 3, 2021, at 10 am. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation of Oklahoma (https://parkinsonoklahoma.com/donate/).

Janice Laverne Smith

Janice Laverne Smith, age 83, of Pine Ridge, Arkansas died February 17, 2021, at her home. She was born on Sunday, November 14, 1937 to Benjamin Clarence and Georgia Ellen Richardson Ray in Lampasas, Texas.

Janice was a lady of faith and love for her family. She was a member of the First Freewill Baptist Church in Mena. Janice enjoyed sewing and quilting, painting and doing crafts. When they lived in Oregon, she was a member of the Quilting Guild. She loved her family and home that she made with her husband, Gene.

Janice loved to listen to gospel music and her favorite group was the Gaither Vocal Band. Janice was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She is preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Nelda Green.

Janice is survived by her loving husband, Gene Smith of Pine Ridge; two sons, Michael Smith of Austin, Texas and Robert Smith of Valley Springs, Texas; two daughters, Julie Ringstaff of East Tawakoni, Texas and Kandy Daughtery of Bullard, Texas; two brothers, Bill Ray and Sam Ray of Burnett, Texas; ten grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; several nephews and nieces and a host of other family and friends.

Services will be held at a later date with cremation services entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Disease Research, 22512 Gateway Center Driver, Clarksburg, Maryland, 20871 or phone 855-345-6237. Online donations to brightfocus.org/stopAD

Ralph Awin Wiles

Ralph Awin Wiles, age 87, died at his home in Mena, Arkansas February 22, 2021. Ralph was born February 11, 1934 in Posey Hollow, Arkansas, to the late William Ode Wiles and Oda Malinda Sanders.

Ralph served four years in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1956. He served in the Air Force Reserves until 1961. Circumstances and fate arranged that he would meet his soon-to-be wife at the Dairy Queen in Mena, where she was dating a friend of his. They married on July 18, 1959 and raised two children together.

After their marriage, they moved to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and lived there for six years when their son was born and then moved back to what they considered to be home at Mena, Arkansas in September of 1965.

Ralph had learned the trade of electrician while in Oklahoma City and began his own electrical contracting business in 1967 which he continued until he was forced to retire in 2005. During that time, he and his employees were responsible for wiring numerous businesses in the City of Mena, an uncounted number of residences, major additions to AAlfs Manufacturing plant, the Lime Tree Restaurant, almost all of the drug stores in Mena, as well as Smith Pallet and Hatfield Lumber Company in Hatfield.

In later years he would drive by various places and say I wired that business, or I wired that residence and we could not begin to keep up with the number.

He also had a hobby that he loved dearly, restoring old cars, mostly in the 1928 to 1934 category. Many times, he started with a frame, or body and restored the car to its original condition.

He was meticulous, every piece had to be as perfect as he could make it. In all,

Wiles Obituary Continued on Page 7

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

he probably restored 25 to 30 cars back to show room condition. He did this in his spare time, after work and on weekends. Chances are, if he was home, he was working on some new project. n He had a bout with colon cancer in 2003 and endured radiation and chemotherapy and consequently numer- ous surgeries but kept going no matter what. Although not a church goer in his 4 early years, he began attending Christ e Community Fellowship about five years a before he died and he loved the fellowship, would not miss a Sunday until d the Covid19 virus. He also loved to tell - jokes. During his final days in the hospital, even though he was confused and - disoriented from his illness and medit cation, he would still have a joke for the nurses. d Ralph was preceded in death by his 9 parents, his brother, Warren Wiles, and sisters, Eula Dean Wolfenbarger, Erma Jean Parker and Clarene Ward.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife of s 61 years, Betty Wiles of Mena, one son, Ralph Wiles, Jr. and Kelly Wiles of Bro- ken Arrow, Oklahoma, and a daughter Penny Lunsford and Jonathan Lunsford - of Mena; four grandchildren: Nicolas n Cannon, Micah Cannon and Tiffanie, s and Dustin Lunsford all of Mena, and e David Wiles of Broken Arrow, Oklahot ma; a sister, Cora Ann Bolton of Bran- son, Missouri, several nieces and nephn ews and a host of other relatives and friends. s Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at s Christ Community Fellowship church d with Pastor Bobby Blasingame officiat. ing. Interment will follow at the Walnut Grove Cemetery at Beauchamp in Scott r County, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general.

Pallbearers are Eddie Staggs, Jr., Stuart Staggs, Chris Staggs, Matt Ross, Lloyd e Shufleberger, and Darrel Page.

- Honorary pallbearers are Phil Wolfen. barger, Jerry Cox, Lyndell Lyda, Bob o Lawry and Richie Lawry. , In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Walnut Grove Cemetery Association, 211 Polk Road 70, Mena, AR 71953

News 7

March 3, 2021

Early voting underway, Election Day March 9 County, city officials in favor of sales tax renewal

By Jeri Pearson An election has been set for March 9 in Polk County, with one ballot item - a renewal of a county-wide tax.

When initially approved by voters, the tax contained a “sunset” provision, which means every seven years voters decide if the tax should be renewed.

In 2020 the tax provided $1,731,686 to the county, as well as $51,943 to Cove, $75,332 to Grannis, $56,159 to Hatfield, $780,108 to Mena, $11,830 to Vandervoort, and $102,527 to Wickes for a total of $2,809,588.

Sandra Wilcher, mayor of Wickes said the town depends on the revenue from the sales tax.

“We use it for streets. Without it our streets won’t get repaved as often. Our streets have been maintained and every year we try to do street work. People can see where the tax money goes,” she said. “It would put everyone in a bind if it is not renewed.”

Wilcher also volunteers as a poll worker and advocates people vote.

Away from the poll she is asking voters to pass the tax.

“I don’t mind voting for a tax that is already in place- it’s not like it is a new tax.”

County Judge Brandon Ellison has attributed the increase in the sales tax over previous years in part to the collection of internet sales tax.

That increase may result in the lowering of millages to keep property taxes at the current revenue level.

“The Quorum Court has informally agreed, or at least, had no objections to removing all road mills off of the property tax levy, which happens in the November meeting, if the renewal is passed,” Ellison explained. “So, [if the renewal passes] it will remove 1.2 mills off of your property tax.”

About the Election The county 1 cent sales tax funds restricted use for road and bridge for

county and general use for cities.

It was first passed in 2007 and renewed in 2014 with a 7 year sunset.

Polk County receives 57% of the revenue and cities share 43% based on population.

Sales tax is considered a more fair and broad way of funding roads and bridges, because all road users will pay the sales instead of just property owners, including tourists, travelers, and people that do not pay property taxes.

Current sales tax expires June 30, 2021.

Vote CentersPolk County Office Complex(Old Hospital), 601 Pine Street, Mena. (Election Day And Early Vote Site) First Baptist Fellowship Hall, 811 Port Arthur (8th Street Side), Mena (Election Day Only) American Legion Building, 3253

Hwy 71 N, Mena,(Election Day Only)) Concord Baptist Church, 3467 Hwy 88 E., Mena, (Election Day Only) Salem Baptist Church, 115 Polk Road 56, Mena,(Election Day Only) Hatfield Auditorium, 117 Cemetery Road, Hatfield, (Election Day Only) Cove Town Hall, 5568 Hwy 71 S, Cove, (Election Day Only) Wickes Community Center, 136 Stevenson Dr., Wickes, (Election Day Only) Grannis Town Hall, 132 Franchiser Road, Grannis,(Election Day Only) Early voting begins Tuesday, March 2 and continues through Monday March 8. Hours for early voting will be Monday-Friday from 8 a.m to 4:30 p.m. early voting will end at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 8.

Election day each vote center will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

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8 Faith

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 3, 2021

An Arkie’s Faith: Fourteen Below Zero

By Richie Lawry

As I walked out the front door and headed to the driveway to clean the snow off my car, the snow crunched under my feet. I had not heard that sound since I moved to Arkansas from Colorado almost forty years ago. It takes very dry snow and frigid temperatures to produce that crunching sound. When I arrived at my shop, the thermometer showed -11 degrees. Because of the historic low temps, the working conditions at my shop were chilly. My old, drafty, uninsulated shop building has only space heaters for heat. On this bitterly cold day, the heaters could do little more than keep the temperature above freezing.

Like many other people in the area, I had water pipes that were frozen. As I worked, I longed for warmer weather.

An arctic airmass and two winter storms brought several inches of snow and record cold temperatures.

Mena’s official low temperature of -14°F on February 16 came close to breaking the all-time cold temperature of -15°F recorded on February 12, 1899. I’m not too fond of cold weather, but for some reason, I have always been fascinated by the stories of Antarctic explorers like Ernest Shackleton and Robert Scott. Today I enjoy watching YouTube channels by vloggers who live in some of the coldest places on the planet.

I love watching Life in Yakutia, Maria Solko’s vlog about her life in the world’s coldest permanently inhabited place. Another favorite is Cecilia Blomdahl, a Swedish girl living on Svalbard, the world’s northernmost town. And I also watch Survival Russia, a vlog by Lars, who is from Denmark but now lives in Siberia.

I grew up in Colorado and experienced lots of snow and cold weather. I can still remember the day that I experienced a Colorado blizzard. It was a lovely winter day with temperatures in the forties. But as I listened to the radio while I worked, every few minutes, there was a bulletin warning of a significant winter storm that was fast approaching. I decided that because I had a twenty-nine-mile drive home, I should head home early. By the time I headed home in my little Ford Pinto, the snow was coming down.

Soon the snowfall was so heavy that visibility was almost zero. The snow was already so deep that the ditches were full of snow, and I couldn’t tell where the edge of the road was. As I inched my way along, I frequently stopped the car and got out to find the edge

of the road. I knew that if I slipped off the road in my little Pinto, I would never be able to get out. My progress was slow, and the storm was intensifying. I regretted not grabbing a coat that morning.

While I was driving slowly down the road, I noticed my wheels starting to slip. I soon realized that I wasn’t making any progress. I was on a steep hill, and the little Pinto couldn’t make it to the top. I carefully backed down the hill and tried following my tracks with all of the speed that I dared. I made it a bit farther but still couldn’t get over the top. When I got out of the car to survey my situation, I noticed a driveway just off to my left. I pulled into the driveway and sat there for a while. I didn’t know what to do. After about a halfhour, I shut the car off because my gas gauge showed almost empty. In my hurry to get home, I had forgotten to gas up. Before long, it was quite cold in the car.

I began to get worried and prayed to God for a way out of my situation.

Joke of the Week:

When the blizzard let up a bit, I could see a house off in the distance at the end of a long driveway. Walking up to the house, I knocked on the front door. No one answered. I went around to the back door and rapped again. Still no answer. After standing in the snow and shivering for a bit, I checked the door and found it unlocked. I opened it and stepped into a mudroom with boots, coats, a sink, and a couple of old metal chairs. After a few minutes, I took one of the coats off the hook and put it on. I hoped the owners would understand.

I sat there, a bit more comfortable because of the coat, and thought about my situation. I knew that my wife was worried about me, but I had no way to let her know what was happening. The door into the house from the mudroom had three small windows.

I looked through the windows and noticed a phone hanging on the wall. I tried the doorknob, and it opened. I felt terrible about going into the home of a stranger, but I didn’t know what else to do. I made a quick call to my wife to tell her that I was safe but had no idea when I would get home. Then I went back into the mudroom.

Over the next hour, I made several trips back to my car to see if the conditions had changed. The snow wasn’t coming down as hard, and visibility had improved. On one of these trips, a four-wheel-drive pickup drove up the hill, leaving tracks to follow. I got in my little Pinto and backed down to the bottom of the incline. Going as fast as I could, I made it over the top. In a few minutes, I was able to make it safely home. I’m sure that the owners of the home never knew that they had been my salvation.

Gentle Reader, that memorable scenario happened over forty years ago. I don’t think I have ever been colder or more concerned about my safety. While He was talking to His disciples about signs of His coming at the end of the world, Jesus said, “sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.

But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”

Matthew 24:12,13 (NLT) Don’t let your love grow cold. Jesus has promised to save those who endure to the end. Whenever you feel the cold of the world surrounding you, remember the promise found in Isaiah 41:10 (NLT). “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” God promises that he will not leave you out in the cold.

I’ve started telling everyone I know about the benefits of eating dried grapes every day. It’s all about raisin awareness.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

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

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

History 9

March 3, 2021

Reflections from History and Faith:

By Jeff Olson

Another Time for Choosing

In this week’s column I would like to honor another of our nation’s presidents born in the month of February since the severe inclement weather of two weeks ago prohibited publication then. One hundred ten years ago, February 6, 1911, Ronald Wilson Reagan was born in Tampico, Illinois. After graduating from Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois in 1932, Reagan started a career in radio. He became an actor in motion pictures in 1937 and then moved on to television in 1954. He was also President of the Screen Actors Guild for 5 terms between 1947 and 1960. Reagan began his career on the national political scene in 1962 which is when he changed political parties.

His reasons were philosophical and based on deep convictions rooted in history and American conservatism. In his own words, “I didn’t leave the Democratic Party, the Democratic Party left me.” From 1967 to 1975 he served as Governor of California. Following are excerpts from several of his speeches which remain more relevant today than ever.

During the presidential election campaign of 1964, Reagan presented a speech entitled “A Time for Choosing.”

In it he stated: “This idea -- that government was beholden to the people, that it had no other source of power -- is still the newest, most unique idea in all the long history of man’s relation to man. This is the issue of this election: Whether we believe in our capacity for self-government or whether we abandon the American Revolution and confess that little intellectual elite in a far-distant capital can plan our lives for us better than we can plan them ourselves. You and I are told we must choose between a left or right, but I suggest there is no such thing as a left or right. There is only an up or down.

Up to man’s age-old dream--the maximum of individual freedom consistent with order -- or down to the ant heap

of totalitarianism. Regardless of their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who would sacrifice freedom for security have embarked on this downward path. Plutarch warned that the real destroyer of the liberties of the people is he who spreads among them bounties, donations and benefits. The Founding Fathers knew a government can’t control the economy without controlling people. And they knew when a government sets out to do that; it must use force and coercion to achieve its purpose. So we have come to a time for choosing.”

In another speech, reminding us of the always potential threat to our freedom of the welfare state: “There are those in America today who have come to depend absolutely on government for their security. And when government fails they seek to rectify that failure in the form of granting government more power. So, as government has failed to control crime and violence with the means given it by the Constitution, they seek to give it more power at the expense of the Constitution.

But in doing so, in their willingness to give up their arms in the name of safety, they are really giving up their protection from what has always been the chief source of despotism -- government.”

As our fortieth president was leaving his post in January 1989, Reagan gave us these words of encouragement and wisdom: “..one of the things I’m proudest of in the past 8 years: the resurgence of national pride that I called the new patriotism. This national feeling is good, but it won’t count for much, and it won’t last unless it’s grounded in thoughtfulness and knowledge.

An informed patriotism is what we want. And are we doing a good enough job teaching our children what America is and what she represents in the long history of the world? Those of us who are over 35 or so years of age grew up in a different America. We were taught, very directly, what it means to

be an American. And we absorbed, almost in the air, a love of country and an appreciation of its institutions. If you didn’t get these things from your family you got them from the neighborhood, from the father down the street who fought in Korea or the family who lost someone at Anzio. Or you could get a sense of patriotism from school. And if all else failed you could get a sense of patriotism from the popular culture.

The movies celebrated democratic values and implicitly reinforced the idea that America was special. TV was like that, too, through the mid-sixties.

But now, we’re about to enter the nineties, and some things have changed.

Younger parents aren’t sure that an unambivalent appreciation of America is the right thing to teach modern children. And as for those who create the popular culture, well-grounded patrio-

tism is no longer the style. Our spirit is back, but we haven’t reinstitutionalized it. We’ve got to do a better job of getting across that America is freedom -- freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of enterprise. And freedom is special and rare. It’s fragile; it needs protection.

So, we’ve got to teach history based not on what’s in fashion but what’s important -- why the Pilgrims came here, who Jimmy Doolittle was, and what those 30 seconds over Tokyo meant.

You know, 4 years ago on the 40th anniversary of D - day, I read a letter from a young woman writing to her late father, who’d fought on Omaha Beach.

Her name was Lisa Zanatta Henn, and she said, ``we will always remember, we will never forget what the boys of Normandy did.’’ Well, let’s help her

See HISTORY page 10

10 Humor

March 3, 2021

Hogspore News: Prepping for Time Change

By Clet Litter from the Ozarks

We lose one hour on Sunday, March 14, when we spring forward. I’m taking a hint from the old timers, no pun intended, (unless you find it funny, then I meant it), that are still laying in more firewood for this late winter just to be safe. So, I’ve been laying in another hour every morning, so I won’t suffer from sleep lag when the time changes.

You heard it here first a while back that the guvernment takes that time from every citizen, specially tired parents of newborns. Those hours go to the petrified senators in Congress to add to their daily nap times.

A county farmer dug up evidence of an ancient culture. Nobody knows what happened cause there ain’t no more culture roaming around here, less you’re into yogurt or sourdough bread.

I’m not giving out the man’s identity, since he don’t want any Indiana Jones wannabes digging through his fields

looking for fossils.

Mumford Pickens drove out there with one of his show-off-know-it-all attitudes, and told the farmer that this was proof of the indigenous people. I’ve heard of the Comanches, Cherokee, and the Nanny Nanny Boo Boos, but it sounds like he storified the Indigenous tribal term.

Mumford said, “Turns out these folks from the past were giants. They were Neandertalls.”

Me and Punkin were coming back from Mena, Arkansas after our annual year trip to the BigMart. Punkin likes to buy her mason jars there. I go along mainly for the Hefty Hamburger special at their Get It Yourself Grill, inside the BigMart. It includes onions, cheese, tomaters, and Frenched-fried taters. You can grace a plop of coleslaw on your burger for 50 cents more. The price is so cheap that the hardest part of dispatching it is trying not to think about what’s in it.

We left before dark but hit an ice storm on the way home. We stopped in Eyesore, Arkansas at a roadside inn.

It was a motel, but for a dollar more a night, they give you a receipt that says “Inn.” I couldn’t find out how the town got its name, but the four factories and two paper mills might have something to do with it.

In the morning, we had a big breakfast, heavy on the lard, and then took in a local nature area. Slapping Rock Park was ten acres of forests that come to a river. Right there by the shore, was Slapping Rock himself. The natives used to wash their buckskins and smelly moccasins in the water and slapped the dirt out of them on Ol Slappy. These folks weren’t Neandertalls. They were probably the beef-eating Cro-Migons.

Here’s a poser for you: “How does a doorbell buzz?”

You can contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com.

got medicare???

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

HISTORY continued from 9

keep her word. If we forget what we did, we won’t know who we are. I’m warning of an eradication of the American memory that could result, ultimately, in an erosion of the American spirit. Let’s start with some basics: more attention to American history and a greater emphasis on civic ritual.

And let me offer lesson number one about America: All great change in America begins at the dinner table.

So, tomorrow night in the kitchen I hope the talking begins. And children, if your parents haven’t been teaching you what it means to be an American, let ‘em know and nail ‘em on it. That would be a very American thing to do.

And that’s about all I have to say tonight, except for one thing. The past few days when I’ve been at that window upstairs, I’ve thought a bit of the ``shining city upon a hill.’’ The phrase comes from John Winthrop, who wrote it to describe the America he imagined.

What he imagined was important because he was an early Pilgrim, an early freedom man. He journeyed here on what today we’d call a little wooden boat; and like the other Pilgrims, he was looking for a home that would be free.

After 200 years, two centuries, she still stands strong and true on the granite ridge, and her glow has held steady no matter what storm. And she’s still a beacon, still a magnet for all who must have freedom, for all the pilgrims from all the lost places who are hurtling through the darkness, toward home.”

And finally, in reminding us of the indispensable role of personal responsibility in preserving our republic, the “shining city upon a hill.” “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”

We have to understand this and let it motivate us past November 2020 - to inform and inspire our future times for choosing in 2021 and beyond. These times will be more crucial and consequential than ever before - because our time is running out...

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Community 11

March 3, 2021

OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL

By Steven E Stillwell This country was founded on the principles of freedom, independence, and by those who were empowered to become entrepreneurs. Ask yourself a question; if the power-grid went down today for an undetermined amount of time, how long could you and your family holdout?

Our tri-state area, Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas saw an unprecedented amount of snow, and freezing temperatures. Many areas were crippled by this arctic blast, including parts of Oklahoma. Over four million people lost power, and approximately 69 deaths occurred as a result of being unprepared.

SO, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO? Those who do nothing always suffer the consequences. If you want to be proactive, you need to formulate a plan.

Solar panels, battery-packs, candles, oil lamps, generators, wood stoves, Coleman-stoves, lanterns, flashlights, and propane heaters are the first things I would recommend for the independently minded family. A person can live off-grid for a long time with these items. In fact, with careful planning, you could live indefinitely if you’ve got

enough reserves.

I’D LIKE TO STOCK-UP, BUT MONEY IS A PROBLEM. Let me share an old story with you, because this is how you can acquire all of the things you’ll need! One day I took my nephew fishing and he commented, “WOW, you’ve got a lot of fishing gear, how did you get all of this stuff?” I told him that you’ve got to be consistent when you plan things in life. Every payday, I’ll add something to my collection, until I’m satisfied that I’ve got all of the basics.

FILL YOUR PANTRY WITH EXTRA PROVISIONS. Storing some nonperishable foods, bottled water, and extra medical supplies will make the transition easier when the lights go out.

Make a list of everything you’ll need, and get to work. The Bible has some excellent pointers about survival so please consider this; Proverbs 30: 25 The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer.

If you’d like to learn more about preparing, we invite you to join our Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. Your comments and questions are always welcomed.

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1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344

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12 Business

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 3, 2021

Farm Bureau Insurance agent recognized for outstanding sales achievements Submitted by Farm Bureau

Welcome to the Chamber The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Home Helpers Home Care with a ribbon cutting. The business is located at 2211 Hwy 71 S., Mena and can be contacted at 216-0471. For more information visit homehelpershomecare.com.

PUT A FREEZE ON HEATING AND COOLING COSTS

Smart Energy Tip:

Changing air filters monthly can reduce energy and save money.

Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Mitch Sikes was recently awarded both, the #1 Casualty Agent of the Year, and the #1 Mutual Agent of the Year, for 2020, for Farm Bureau’s Southwest Sales District, which consists of 20 counties, including the metropolitan counties of Central AR. Mitch wrote more new autos and more new fire premium, in 2020, than any of the other 80 Farm Bureau Insurance agents he was competing against for these awards.

Sikes also placed second, overall, for the District’s “Best of the Best” standings, which consists of 10 different sales categories, and ranks agents based upon total aggregate scores. He has been an agent for Farm Bureau since May 1998 and is very respected by his peers throughout Arkansas.

Mitch has won the Casualty Agent of the Year for 4 consecutive years now, and has won Mutual Agent of the Year in 2012, 2013, 2017, and now 2020. We are very proud of Mitch for his accomplishments and try to do all we can to help him continue to be successful in his career.

One of the best things we did, back in 2017, was to move Alecia House, from the front office and make her an assistant for Mitch and fellow agent, Andy Brown. Alecia is a fully licensed secretary and an integral part of our agency.

She helps Mitch and Andy serve their Farm Bureau members, with the most professional customer service they can offer.

Polk County Farm Bureau Insurance

was also recognized as the #1 Mutual Agency of the Year, for 2020, in the Southwest District. That award is based upon an average in written new fire premium per agent.

Currently there are 5 agents in our office, including Andy Brown, Nikki Cureton, Nathan Fowler, Mitch Sikes, and Agency Manager, Tony Hooper.

The front office is led by office manager, Janice Wagner, and Member Services Representatives, Paula Lawson and Wendy Maxwell. Two staff adjusters are located in our office as well, Senior Adjuster, Shane Frost and Jake Bunch.

Combined, the agency has over 3,100 member families to serve daily, from our Mena office location at 309 S. Morrow Street.

We would like to thank all our loyal members for their continued patronage and the trust they have placed in our agency to protect what is important to them. As crazy as the year 2020 turned out to be, their support helped to make it possible for us to have maybe our best year ever, even in the middle of a pandemic.

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TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHUAST • SHOCKS & STRUTS

Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm

1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

Owned By Those We Serve 515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953

(479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M

Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 3, 2021

Community 13

28 years recognized Danny Thrailkill was presented with a plaque at the February meeting of the Polk County Housing Authority.

Danny has worked with the housing authority for over 28 years and Executive Director, Dixie Shrader and the Board of Commissioners have

On Thursday, Feb. 11 Post Commander, VOD District Chairman of VFW Post 4451, Edward Cross presented Valentines gifts to veterans residing at Homewood Nursing Facility and to Peachtree Assisted Living Facility. Due to COVID 19, the activities director, Bonnie Gibb of Homewood and activity director Carla White of Peachtree will present the gifts to our veterans. On Feb. 12, Disabled Veterans Auxiliary Unit #46 Commander, Carol Burns delivered a single rose in a bud vase to veterans residing at Homewood and Peachtree for Valentines Day. Activities directors Bonnie Gibb and Carla White will deliver to each veteran to let them know they will never be forgotten and they are much loved.

MENA REAL ESTATE

www.MenaRealEstate.com

David Henderson M.D.

worked closely with him providing decent, safe, and affordable housing for Polk County residents. Judge Thrailkill expressed his appreciation for the plaque and acknowledged Polk County Housing Authority as an essential part of the community.

14 Police Reports

March 3, 2021

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

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG February 22, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 8E near Board Camp of a stolen vehicle. Deputy responded.

Arrested was Jason W. Busby, 47, of Mena, on a Parole Hold.

February 23, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 8E near Dallas Valley of a break-in.

Deputy responded. Investigation continues.

Arrested was Julie E. Renard, 37, of Mena, on a Charge of Driving While Intoxicated.

Arrested was Crystal L. Thacker Farmer, 32, of Atlanta, Texas, on a Warrant for Probation Violation.

February 24, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 246E near Cove of a domestic disturbance. Deputy responded.

Arrested was Amber R. Thomasson, 38, of Mena, on a Parole Hold and Criminal Trespass.

Arrested was Sheila M. Akers, 42, of Cove, on a Charge of Possession of Meth or Cocaine.

Arrested was David F. Rife, 49, of Hatfield, on a Charge of Possession of Meth or Cocaine.

February 25, 2021 Report of receiving threatening calls and texts. Deputies responded.

Report of receiving a fraudulent bill in the mail.

Report of vehicle striking a church building. Deputy responded.

Report of a telephone scam.

Arrested was Neisha F. Wikel, 28, of Cove, on a Hold for Other Agency.

February 26, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 375E near Dallas Valley of being assaulted. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges.

February 27, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 465 near Grannis of the theft of two Ranger’s, an ATV, multiple firearms and chainsaws valued at $12,250.00.

Deputy responded. Investigation continues.

Report from complainant on Hwy 71S near Grannis of the theft of a gun.

Deputy responded. The gun was later returned to the owner.

Report from complainant on Polk 231 near Cove of a vehicle causing damage to property and other vehicles led to the arrest of Gerhard H. Hicks, 23, of Wickes, on Charges of Disorderly Conduct, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident, Careless and Prohibited Driving, Public Intoxication, Criminal Mischief 1 st Degree, No Vehicle License, and Resisting Arrest.

February 28, 2021 No reports filed.

Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 16 Incarcerated Inmates, with 10 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS Correction for February 14 Abram Abernathy was not charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) at Walmart.

Brandon Abernathy, 30, was charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) at Walmart.

February 21, 2021 A report of criminal mischief was taken at Murphy USA. A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant.

February 22, 2021 No report.

February 23, 2021 A report of criminal mischief was taken from a walk-in complainant.

February 24, 2021 A report of violation of a no contact order was taken from a walk-in complainant.

Two juveniles were charged with Criminal Trespass and Theft of Property at a residence on Gillham Avenue.

February 25, 2021 Ashley Page, 19, was served with a warrant at the police department.

A report of theft was taken at Teeter Motors.

A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken from Space Center Storage.

February 26, 2021 Tristen Canada, 20, was served with a warrant at the police department.

A report of financial identity fraud was taken from a walk-in complainant.

Amber Thomasson, 38, was served with two warrants at the police department.

February 27, 2021 A report of endangering the welfare of a minor was taken from a walk-in complainant.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

THREE KILLED IN MADISON COUNTY, CHILD ABDUCTED

An investigation is on-going involving the deaths of three Madison County residents and the abduction of a child from the home where the killings occurred.

Sheriff ’s deputies were contacted by an individual reporting three people were dead inside a residence southwest of Huntsville. The homicide victims were identified as Tami Lynn Chenoweth, 51, James Stanley McGhee, 59, and Cheyene Chenoweth, 26.

A statewide search began for two vehicles known to have been at the residence earlier in the day and possibly driven away from the crime scene by the killer.

Information was also developed identifying a child believed to have been at the home who was abducted by the killer or a woman had also been at the crime scene.

State troopers found one of the vehicles abandoned in Faulkner County along Interstate 40 near Mayflower. Troopers secured the truck and transported it to state police headquarters where special agents began searching for evidence associated with the Madison County homicides and child abduction.

Later that evening, troopers spotted a van matching the description of the second vehicle traveling near Benton. A passenger in the van exited the vehicle armed with a rifle and began verbally provoking the troopers who had made the traffic stop. Simultaneously other troopers moved-in from behind the gunman and were able to arrest Hunter Chenoweth, 22, of DeQueen.

The driver of the van stopped by state police was a 25 year-old DeQueen woman. Also in the van was the abducted infant, less than one year-old, who was unharmed and was released to DHS. Chenoweth is being held at the Saline County Detention Center while the homicide investigation continues.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Puzzles 15

March 3, 2021

03.03.2021

03.03.2021

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 02.24.2021

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hello! My name is Melanie! I am a sweet 4 month old who weighs in at about 4 pounds. I am a beautiful grey tabby with spots and stripes. I am an active young cat who loves other cats and people. I really enjoy running on the cat wheel in the cat habitat. I love to play with toys and am really curious about everything and everyone. I am litter box trained and have been indoors my whole life. As such, I would need to go to an indoor only home.

The only thing I am missing in my life is a family to call my own. So, come by HSO and ask for Melanie!

All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for cats includes a collar, bed, toys, shampoo, and litter box liners. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

16 Classifieds

March 3, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS - EMPLOYMENT 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.

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator.

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

HIRING -The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce is seeking to fill the position of Executive Director. The Executive Director is a full-time visionary leader who will strategize, direct and coordinate with the Chamber’s overall operations. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required, with 3-5 years of work experience in marketing, communications, economic development, and administrative experience. Strong computer, website and social media skills are essential.

The Board of Directors encourages interested individuals to visit www.menapolkchamber. com for further details regarding position requirements and responsibilities. Please send resume and letter of interest to pilarfowler@ yahoo.com or ldilbeck@uarichmountain.edu.

Application deadline is March 5.

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

- SERVICES Land Clearing, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479)216-2976 for Free estimate. T12302020

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also lite deliveries. (870)4901191 T120220

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Arkansas State Parks Announce Return to Regular Hours for Park Visitor Centers

Due to the health emergency brought on by COVID-19, many facilities at Arkansas State Parks have had reduced hours and limited occupancy for the past year. Beginning Monday, March 1, 2021, park visitor centers and museums will again have regular hours for visitors.

Visitor centers will be open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Park museums will be open Wednesday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Arkansas State Park visitor centers and museums act as information hubs in the parks. Visitors will find exhibits explaining the flora, fauna, geography, and history of the parks in these buildings. Souvenirs, camping supplies, informative books, and snacks can be purchased in the park stores that are in most of these facilities.

“Our goal over the past year has been to continue to provide high-quality services while keeping both our visitors and our staff safe,” said Arkansas Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Stacy Hurst. “We have seen increased visitation as people discovered that the parks were a great place to enjoy the outdoors while keeping a safe physical distance. With spring and better weather on the way, fully opening our facilities while maintaining our safety protocols will best serve the public.”

Arkansas State Parks Director Grady Spann said, “We appreciate the public’s understanding during the past year, and we expect the new hours to better serve our guests. It is still important to maintain social distancing and to always wear a mask in public areas of all of our indoor facilities.”

These new hours do not affect the hours of operations of the parks in general or other facilities. For more information about each park, visit ArkansasStateParks.com.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 3, 2021

Around Town

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at during the school year. It cost $126 to sponsor fered at The Farm House, 819 Mena 3 p.m. Sundays, at 5 p.m. Tuesdays and at one child for the year, or $14 a month. To Street, 479-385-2151.

8p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn at the

help assist the program and help a food in- • Heart Health, Sunday, Feb. 21, 3:00

Crossing Church. For information call 479-

secure child through this program, drop off

234-8366 or 479-216-3786

donations at UnionBank, to the BackPack • Health & Wellness Life Group, Friday, program or mail donations to Mena Lioness

p.m., Dr. Carmen Jones Feb. 26, 5:30 p.m.

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 Lions, PO Box 688, Mena AR 71953. p.m. Monday, at 7 p.m. Thurday, at 7 p.m.

It’s easy to have your event listed in

Friday, and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus

GriefShare is starting a new 13 week Around Town, which will be read on radio

barn at the Crossing Church. For information series at First Presbyterian Church in Mena. stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send call 479-216-5812.

Meetings are each Thursday from 10 am until

Around Town 17 Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System FEBRUARY 12, 2021 TO FEBRUARY 26, 2021

Emily Crawford & Alexander Madison of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Feb. 16th Latasha Allen & Jordan Black of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Feb. 23rd Lacey & Zachary Rogers of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Feb. 23rd

your Around Town announcement to news@

noon and are open to anyone in the commu- mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and The Mena Lioness Club is ask-

nity grieving the loss of a loved one. For more

let us know about your event! To have it in

ing the community to make information call 479-234-3419.

the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to

donations to the Backpack Pro-

know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to

gram, which sends food home with children

The

Free Educational Seminars of-

continuing to serve the community!

Green House Cottages of Homewood

NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER

Reinventing The Nursing Home

L O C A T E D I N M E N A , A R K A N S A S • ( 4 7 9 ) - 3 37 - 7115 • W W W . H O M E W O O D G H C . C O M

18 Education

March 3, 2021

Polk County

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Spelling Bee First Grade: 1st Place- Blayze McCoy - Vandervoort 2nd Place - Amberlee Jeanes Wickes 3rd Place Kyelee Horn - Acorn

Second Grade: 1st Place - Rajesh Dandikar Acorn 2nd Place - Carson Price - Wickes 3rd Place - Lily Arender - Acorn

Third Grade: Channing Wimberly - Holly Harshman 2nd Place - Adelynn Barton Vandervoort 3rd Place - Amelia Espinola Vandervoort

Fourth Grade: 1st Place - Drew Mabry - Acorn 2nd Place - Cy Young - Acorn 3rd Place - Gloria Roberts - Holly Harshman

Fifth Grade: 1st Place - Drew Mabry - Acorn 2nd Place - Ayden Dong - Holly Harshman 3rd Place - Beaudy Lile - Vandervoort

Sixth Grade: 1st Place - Drew Mabry - Acorn 2nd Place - Clint Hennings- Wickes 3rd Place - Anthony Johnston Vandervoort

Seventh Grade: Blaine Brett - Cossatot River High School 2nd Place - Drew Mabry - Acorn 3rd Place - Lyndsey Powell - Acorn High School

Eighth Grade: 1st Place - Riley Dunn - Cossatot River High School 2nd Place - Bradley Harwood Cossatot River High School 3rd Place - Jasmine Onstott - Acorn High School

Congratulations to the buzz-worthy winners!

Polk County Spelling Bee is sponsored by Union Bank

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Education 19

March 3, 2021

Acorn FCCLA Earn Medals at District VI Star Event

Congratulations to Lulu Quebedeaux, Keagan Jennings, Macy Pyron, Kenzie Daniels, and Colten Quebedeaux on earning medals at the FCCLA District VI Star Events Competition. Due to Covid, all events are being held virtually this year. Lulu earned a Gold medal for her Career Investigation Level 3 presentation. Keagan and Macy earned a silver medal for their Repurpose & Redesign Level 3 project. Kenzie earned Silver for her Job Interview Level 2 presentation. Colten earned silver for his Career Investigation Level 1 presentation. All five students will represent Acorn High School at the Arkansas State FCCLA competition.

CutestPet made possible by your friends at

Sweet Pea

Saddle Brooke

1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953 Keith Aleshire Principal Broker

479-243-5341 kaleshire@aol.com

DREAMBUILDERS

Sheds, Cabins, and Tiny Homes

Katie Efird

(501)472-8452 Submit your cute pet to

pulsemmnews@mypulsenews.com

Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC

Owner Teresa Youngblood

479-394-4200 hollyspringsrealestate.com

4052- Magnificent view of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

In Timber Ridge (approx 1.7 acres) including a pond! Vaulted ceilings, wall alcoves, and double fireplace between living room and the master suite. Spacious kitchen with abundant cabinetry, 2 pantries and a home office/crafting space, laundry, half bath & ample storage closets. 26x30 3 bay attached garage all convenient to the back door. A Storm Cellar is steps away from the garage. 2 bay, 28x34 Garage, w/1/2 bath and side entrance provides extra space for vehicles, a boat and your own awesome workshop.

MLS20013369 $339,500

20

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 3, 2021

TEETER

2019 KIA NIRO HYBRID

2017 LEXUS GX 460

•42,000 Miles •Bucket Seats •Eco Friendly •Reverse Camera

•39,900 Miles •Navigation Sys •4.6 L V8 •3rd Row Seating

MOTOR COMPANY

1201 HIGHWAY 71 S • MENA, ARKANSAS

(479) 2164935

2020 JEEP WRANGLER

2019 RAM 1500

•35,000 Miles •Navigation Sys •Cloth Bucket Seats

•14,000 Miles •Navigation Sys •Hemi 5.7 L •4x4

2018 CHEVY EQUINOX

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TEETER

1512 W MOLINE ST, MALVERN, ARKANSAS

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♦ DEALS ARE ALWAYS SWEETER AT TEETER ♦ DEALS ARE ALWAYS SWEETER AT TEETER ♦

♦ DEALS ARE ALWAYS SWEETER AT TEETER ♦ DEALS ARE ALWAYS SWEETER AT TEETER ♦