Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
April 14, 2021
Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com
Hometown Hero Honored
Prom Dramatization
INSIDE:
By Jeri Pearson
Mena Police Chief Tommy Stuart was recognized last week by Congressman Bruce Westerman for his accomplishments in running the police department successfully during the COVID pandemic by Congressman Bruce Westerman during the Hometown Heroes
Brown Center for Rehabilitation
Page 11
See HERO page 2
Arise Ministry
Page 15
Preventing Prom Night Tragedies Photo by Jeri Pearson
National Boxing Competition
Juniors and seniors of Polk County schools witnessed a worst case scenario reenactment Friday morning through a portrayal of what could happen when students make poor decisions involving intoxicated driving. Southwest EMS coordinated the drama with Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Mena Fire Department and the Coroners office. The scene depicted a two vehicle motor vehicle accident in which the occupants were intoxicated, resulting in two “fatalities,” numerous “injuries,” and “arrest.” The drama is presented to students before prom and sends a message from first responders to students encouraging them to make wise choices.
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SALUTE YOUR
Graduate 2021
Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
Photo by Jeri Pearson Congressman Bruce Westerman congratulated Mena Police Chief Tommy Stuart on the lawn of the Polk County Courthouse Thursday during Westerman’s Hometown Heroes Tour.
MAY 19TH GRADUATION ISSUE
2 News HERO continued from page 1
Tour. “Every community in the Fourth District has a Hometown Hero worth celebrating,” Westerman said. “As neighbors, co-workers, and friends, we see their kindness and feel the impact of their work each day. These community members are the life-blood of our district.” Westerman’s hometown tour aimed to highlight and honor incredible people and the work they have done to help their neighbors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stuart humbly accepted the award and gave credit to his officers and staff for their diligence in preserving through the changes brought by COVID. “It changed the way we worked calls and required additional procedures and measure to ensure the safety of our officers and the public,” Stuart said. “What was most important was the community continued to know we were present and available and our guys did a great
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April 14, 2021 job and going the extra mile.” The congressman said it was fantastic to be in Arkansas last week to honor people across the district as “Hometown Heroes.” “Several weeks ago, my office and I posted on social media asking for Fourth District residents to nominate those who had gone above and beyond to serve their communities in the past year,” Westerman said. “Dozens of stories were submitted, and some people were even nominated more than once. After an incredibly difficult year, it was heartwarming to read these stories and visit with those who have poured their time and energy back into their communities.” Westerman met with people from all different backgrounds - law enforcement, educators, restaurant owners, pharmacists, church employees, and others. “In speaking to each person this week, one common theme was shared amongst them all, and that is that they could not have done the work they did without the help and support of many
other people along the way. I think this speaks volumes.” Arkansas’ Fourth District covers 33 counties from the Ozark Mountains all the way down to the Louisiana state border. “Several counties are quite different from others, whether that be in leading industry, population size, or even the
geography,” Westerman said. “When you put those things aside, our large district shares the same resilient spirit, driven largely by many of the Hometown Heroes I met this week. These Heroes and many others like them are the lifeblood of our communities and the reason that Arkansas is a fantastic place to live.”
SEALED BIDS FOR RICH MOUNTAIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE VEHICLES
Beginning April 1, 2021 Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative will accept sealed bids in our Mena Office. Anyone interested may bring in their envelope, marked BID, or mail it to P.O. Box 897, Mena, AR 71953. Please include a good contact phone number with the bid. Rich Mountain Electric will accept bids until the close of business Thursday, April 29, 2021. All vehicles may be inspected at our pole yard location in Mena on Fairgrounds Road from 8:30am until 4:30pm week days beginning Thursday, April 1st through Thursday, April 29th. Winning bids will be notified by phone once the bidding period has closed and arrangements will be made at the time for pickup. We ask that all items be removed by Friday, May 14,2021. Contact RMEC at 479-394-4140. Listed below are the vehicles/equipment available for bid: Year Make Model Engine Mileage Transmission Fuel VIN Number Unit # 1995 Ford 1 ton Basket V-8 272,657 Automatic Diesel 1FTDKF38F1SEA56841 95 07 1995 Chevrolet 1/2 ton pickup V-8 245,648 Automatic Gas 1GCEK14KXSZ227051 95 11 2001 Chevrolet 1/2 ton 4x4 V-8 211,087 Automatic Gas 1GCEK14TO1Z302220 01 16 2010 Ford 1/2 ton 4x4 V-8 191,887 Automatic Gas 1FTMF1EV2AKE21797 22 2010 Ford 4x4 3/4 Pickup V-8 188,703 Automatic Gas 1FTNF2B5XAEA59702 30 1997 Chevrolet 1/2 ton 4x4 V-8 262,524 Automatic Gas 1GCEK14R4VZ234336 31 2000 Chevrolet 1/2 ton 4x4 V-8 180,790 Automatic Gas 1GCEK14T2YZ347752 35 1997 Ford 1/2 ton 4x4 V-8 241,578 Automatic Gas 1FTEF18L4VKD52163 36 2000 Ford 1/2 ton 4x4 V-8 280,017 Automatic Gas 1FTRF18L9YNA47343 38 2006 Ford 1/2 ton 4x4 V-6 209,001 Automatic Gas 1FTRF14W76NA80631 34 1991 Chevrolet 2 ton Digger 6 108,152 Manuel 2 speed Diesel 1GBM7H1JOMJ102860 97-03 1997 Ford 1 ton basket Engine 168,771 Automatic Diesel 3FEKF38F6VMA53749 97-08 2001 Ford 1 ton cab chassis V-8 184,076 Automatic Diesel 1FDAF57F61EA57930 12 2008 GMC 1 ton cab chassis V-8 80,236 Automatic Diesel 1GDESC3978F408647 14 2000 Ford 1 ton basket V-8 257,133 Automatic Diesel 1FDAF57F8YEB79019 18 1985 Tree Rex 336 Ford 4/speed man Diesel Tire size 28L26 x4 1985 Tree Rex 336 Ford 4/speed man Diesel Tire size 28L26 x4 1995 shop-made 1995 shop-made Vintage Hotstick Trailer
24 ft pole trailer single axle single wheel 24 ft pole trailer single axle single wheel
Tire size 9.00/20 Tire size 9.00/20
T7 T8
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
Radio - Print - Web 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
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Our Team: 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 Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Justin Richmond - Receptionist 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. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Missouri Suspect Wounded By Police In Mountain Home Incident A man wanted by Missouri law enforcement officers was shot and wounded by a Mountain Home police officer late yesterday (Tuesday, March 30th) after the suspect is said to have pointed a gun and fired at a bail bondsman. The incident occurred outside two Mountain Home businesses in the 800 block of U.S. Highway 62. Kevin Lee Donovan, 41, of Adrian, Missouri remains hospitalized in Springfield, Missouri and is reported to be in critical condition. Neither the Mountain Home police officer nor the bail bondsman were injured. Mountain Home police authorities have requested the Arkansas State Police to investigate the incident. Donovan was wanted in Missouri on charges of possession of controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful use of a weapon. A bail bondsman had located Donovan in Mountain Home and called local police to assist him in taking Donovan into custody. When the bondsman and police officer confronted Donovan about 7:30 PM outside a convenience store, Donovan brandished a gun and began to back away. As the standoff moved off the store parking lot, Donovan raised the gun and fired at the bondsman. The Mountain Home officer then fired, wounding Donovan. Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division will continue their work today questioning witnesses and submitting evidence to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. An investigative case file will be prepared by state police special agents and turned-over to the Baxter County prosecuting attorney who will consider the findings to determine whether the officer’s use of deadly force was consistent with Arkansas laws. Questions relating to the identity of the Mountain Home police officer or the administrative status of the officer should be directed to the Mountain Home Police Department.
Armed Fugitive Surrenders To Troopers In Highway Stand-Off
Flores Reynaldo, 33, of Progreso, Texas was arrested by Arkansas state troopers this afternoon following a five hour stand-off with law enforcement officers near Hope. Reynaldo is charged with aggravated assault and is being held at the Hempstead County Detention Center. State troopers were called to the Arkansas Department of Transportation weight station along Interstate 30 in Hempstead County about 9:15 today after Reynaldo barricaded himself inside the sleeper compartment of a commercial carrier tractor-trailer. Reynaldo was armed with two handguns. During the weight and inspection process conducted by Arkansas Highway Police, officers learned that Reynaldo was wanted on outstanding Texas felony criminal charges. As officers attempted to take Reynaldo into custody he fled to the truck and refused to exit the vehicle, pointing a gun at one of the officers. In addition to troopers from the Highway Patrol Division, Troop G, additional troopers assigned to the State Police Swat and Negotiation teams were called to the weight station. Reynaldo surrendered to troopers about 2:15 pm. No one was injured during the stand-off.
State Crime 3
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Pulse Reflections from History and Faith: A Forgotten First President April 14, 2021
By Jeff Olson This week I will shed some light on a great American; a man who played an important role in our nation's formative years and whose place in our history has been often overlooked or forgotten. His name was John Hanson, born 300 years ago this week on April 14, 1721. During most of America's War of Independence, the Second Continental Congress accepted the responsibility of acting as the national government. Many understood that if America was to succeed in defeating the British, she would need not just a national government in name but one which would provide some centralized functions and coordination as well as to foster cooperation and unity among the states in the war effort. Therefore, in June 1776 Congress appointed a committee to plan a permanent union of the states. The final draft of the plan was adopted and sent to the states for ratification in 1777. After several years of debate and some revisions, the Articles of Confederation was finally ratified by all 13 states on March 1, 1781. The signatures included that of John Hanson, delegate from Maryland. Under the Articles of Confederation, the central
government consisted of a Congress to which each state appointed delegates annually. Since there was only a legislative body and no executive or judicial branches, the president of the Congress was the highest office in the government. Article IX stated that Congress shall have authority... to appoint one of their members to preside, provided that no person be allowed to serve in the office of president more than one year in any term of three years. When the Articles went into effect, Samuel Huntington (CT) continued serving an existing term but resigned due to poor health. The same day, July 9, 1781, Samuel Johnston (NC) was elected president, however he declined the office. On July 10, Thomas McKean (DE) was elected but resigned after less than four months. When the next session of Congress convened in November, John Hanson (MD) was elected President of the United States in Congress Assembled, the first to serve the one-year term in office specified in Article IX of the Articles of Confederation. The position of president was strictly voluntary and largely a ceremonial one, consisting mostly of the duties of discussion moderator, handling official correspondence, signing documents and maintaining
See HISTORY page 6
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Obituaries 5
April 14, 2021
Frances Geraldine McGee McCallie
Frances Geraldine McGee McCallie, who was known as Jerry, was born on April 14, 1935 in Borger, Texas, to Alvin Hawthorne McGee and Frances Opal Stephenson McGee. Jerry married Bill McCallie and together they raised three children and started a successful business, Bill’s Oilfield Service, in Perryton, Texas. In 1981, Bill and Jerry moved to Mena, Arkansas, where they purchased a farm and lived and worked for over thirty years, and retired to Heber Springs, Arkansas, in 2017. Jerry was a member of the First Baptist Church in Perryton and the Yocanna Baptist Church in Mena, where she served as the bookkeeper and also put her organizational skills to work handling numerous affairs for the church. Jerry’s faith was important to her and her contribution to her congregation was substantial. Jerry also enjoyed sewing, crafting, painting, gardening, canning, cooking and baking. Jerry was smart and detail-oriented, and she thrived both in and out of the home. The various ventures Bill and Jerry grew throughout their marriage exhibited a true partnership between two people who knew the value of hard work and cooperation. The life they built together over their 68 years of marriage will always be an inspiration and example to their family.
Bill and Jerry have always been dedicated animal lovers, not only of the dogs and cats they treated as members of their family but of the cows, goats, pigs, horses, guineas and countless other animals that lived on the farm throughout the years. Any animal that came into Jerry’s life was a lucky one, because it would not only be fed and sheltered but also named, nursed and deeply loved. Above all, Jerry’s life was defined by her devotion as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and Nana. The legacy she leaves behind simply cannot be conveyed in words but those that loved her will always be better because she was a part of their lives, and her memory will always be with them. Jerry is survived by her husband Bill McCallie of Heber Springs, Arkansas; son Billy McCallie and wife Missy of Perryton, Texas; daughter Jan Dear and husband Rusty of Heber Springs, Arkansas; sister Pat Hickman and husband Bill of Amarillo, Texas; brother Billy Johnson and wife Lyla of Sherman, Texas; and her six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren: Crystal Cameron and husband Bonner of Bryant, Arkansas, and their daughter Harley; Jessica Symons and husband Phil of Perryton, Texas, and their children Layla, Stetson and Stella; Robin McCallie of Seattle, Washington, and her son Zakk; Judson Dear and wife Kerry of Alexander, Arkansas; Jacki Thompson and husband Mark of Canyon, Texas, and their children Hadee, Track and Marlee; and Austin McCallie of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Jerry is reunited with her parents, her brother, Gerald Johnson, and her son, Clint McCallie. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Yocanna Baptist Church, 119 Polk Road No. 72, Mena, Arkansas 72193. Funeral services will be 2:00 pm, Friday, April 16, 2021 at Bowser Family Funeral Service in Mena, Arkansas with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Pine Crest Gardens in Mena, Arkansas. Brother Lynn Chiles and Brother Frank Gibson will be officiating.
Everett Washington Howard
Mr. Everett Washington Howard, 95, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Thursday, April 8, 2021 in Mena. He was born November 25, 1925 in Cherry Hill, Arkansas to the late Marian P. Howard and the late Willie Hess Howard. He was married to the love of his life, Gracie Susan Hackney Howard on March 27, 1948, and would always say how beautiful up until the day he passed away. He retired from Mid-South Lumber Company and was also a rancher. Everett loved ride his tractor and just got a new one after replacing the one he had for over 50 years! He also loved reading Louie Lamar western books and enjoyed watching the deer come out from the woods. He served his country in the United States Army, and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and a friend to all he knew. He is survived by his children, Freda Galyen and her children Lynn, Fred and Threasa, Rodger Howard and wife Pat and their children Nathan and Rodney, Wesley Howard and wife Debbie and their children Danny and Deanna and step son, Peter Barksdale and Eulene McCulley and husband Larry McCulley and their son Larin McCulley and a brother, Ola Gene Howard, and a host of great grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and other family members too numerous to mention. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, 4 brothers, and their wives, Curtis and Molly Howard, Otis and Melba Howard, Frank and Mardge Howard, and Virgle and Willa Mae Howard, and 2 sisters, Twinkle Pollard and Brenice Howard. Funeral services will be Thursday, April 15, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pine Ridge Union Pentecostal Church with Brother Kenny Posey and Brother Randy Deramus officiating. Interment follows in Pine Ridge Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general. Pallbearers will be Nathan Howard, Nick Wolfenbarger, Jonathan Travis and Ken Sherman.
Melton Eugene Ross
Melton Eugene “Gene” Ross, age 80, passed away March 23, 2021 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on December 8, 1940 in Hatfield, Arkansas to the late Clarence and Lela Ross. Gene was a dedicated employee at Arkansas Log Homes for 30 years. He spent many years of service to the Cattleman’s Association and Polk County Fair Board as Rodeo Chairman. Gene was also a past member of the Polk County Wolf Hunter’s Association. He was known for his outgoing personality and never met a stranger. He is survived by sons, Travis Ross and wife Michelle, Matt Ross; daughter, Sheri Wallace and husband Rickey; grandchildren, Ethan Ross, Rachel Wallace, and Sarah Wallace; brother, Larry Ross; a host of nieces, nephews, friends and extended family. Gene is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joyce Ross; son, Jeffrey Ross; brother, Jerry Ross. Gene will be sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A memorial will be held Saturday, April 17, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at First Christian Church.
Bill Davis
Bill Davis, 79 years old, passed from this life on December 23, 2020 in Arizona. He was born December 15, 1942 to haskell and Delma Davis. He was married to Jennie Vincent for 39 years. He is survived by his wife Jennie. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 on Friday, April 16th.
Obituaries Continued on Page 6
6 Obituaries
April 14, 2021
Leroy Williams
Leroy Williams born February 2, 1962 to Reed and Nollies Broach Williams in Mena, Arkansas. Leroy was a loved husband, dad, papa, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He worked hard doing insulation work on power plants, traveling to different locations. When an accident in 2003 left him unable to work, he was able to enjoy watching birds flock to his feeders. He looked forward to Spring to get started gardening. He loved this, it was his passion. His gardens were full and beautiful and always bountiful enough to share quite a bit. He loved hunting and fishing too and family get togethers. He was family oriented and never hesitated if anyone needed him, he would drop what he was doing to help. He adored his two grandkids and took pride in teaching them a wide variety of handy ways to do things and his cute phrases he always said like, “papa got it.” He loved and cherished his wife Tammy for every minute of their 26 years. They had the phrase, “two mules pulling the same plow” and they worked thru to the end pulling the same plow. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Leroy was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Ray Williams, JL Williams, and Grover Williams. He is survived by his wife, Tammy; daughter, Nikki Odle; two grandkids, Ali and Jack; one brother, Joe Williams and wife Elaine; five sisters, Becky Sherrouse of Wickes, Arkansas, Mary and husband John Whitlow, Ruby and husband Edward, Billy Faye and husband John, and Betty and husband Jim Williamson. Also numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Graveside services will be held on Monday, April 12, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the West View Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas with Brother Tim Smedley officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.
HISTORY
continued from page 4 social relations with important allies. For Hanson, this work was generally tedious and he considered resigning after just one week. However, colleagues urged him to remain because Congress at that moment lacked a quorum to choose a successor. Out of love for his country and a strong sense of duty, Hanson remained in office and his accomplishments were anything but tedious. In just one year in office, he was able to remove all foreign troops from American lands, as well as their flags. He also introduced the Treasury Department, the first Secretary of War, and the first Foreign Affairs Department. He led the flight to guarantee the statehood of the Western Territories beyond the Appalachian Mountains that had been controlled by some of the original thirteen colonies. He was also responsible for initiating a number of programs that helped America gain a world position. During his term the first consular service was established, a post office department was initiated, a national bank was chartered, progress was made towards taking the first census, and a uniform system of coinage was adopted. He approved the Great Seal of the United States that is still used today. He officially received General George Washington after the American victory at Yorktown and appointed Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, John Jay and Henry Laurens to negotiate the Treaty of Paris which officially ended America's victorious War
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of Independence. Hanson was also the first president to call for a national day of Thanksgiving, issuing a proclamation declaring Thursday, Nov. 28, 1782, "a day of solemn Thanksgiving to God for all his mercies." John Hanson had been a public servant for many years prior to his entry into national leadership. From 1750 to 1779 he served in various county leadership capacities in Maryland and was a leading opponent of the 1765 Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts. He was instrumental in Frederick County sending the first southern troops to join the Continental Army. Hanson founded a gun-lock company and played an important part in helping to increase troops for the Continental Army. Because funds were scarce, Hanson often paid soldiers and others with his own money. In June 1776, he chaired the Frederick County meeting that urged provincial leaders in Annapolis to instruct Maryland's delegates in the Continental Congress to declare independence from Great Britain. John Hanson retired from public office upon completing his term as president of Congress, leaving a legacy more consequential and enduring than what most Americans will ever know. A year later, his health still in decline, he died on November 15, 1783 at age 62. A bronze statue of him stands in the National Statuary Hall Collection in the U.S. Capitol. While John Hanson has never had the recognition or notoriety of America's Founding Fathers, his leadership was instrumental in sustaining a struggling infant nation prior to the Consti-
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tutional Convention of 1787. As one author noted, John Hanson may not have been present at the signing of our nation's birth in 1776, but he was indispensable in helping her draw her first breath. In John Hanson and the Inseparable Union author Jacob A. Nelson stated, "Thus was ended the career of one of America's greatest statesmen. While hitherto practically unknown to our people, and this is true as to nearly all the generations that have lived since his day, his great handiwork, the nation which he helped to establish, remains as a fitting tribute to his memory. It is doubtful if there has ever lived on this side of the Atlantic, a nobler character or shrewder statesman. One would search in vain to find a more powerful personage, or a more aggressive leader, in the annals of American history. And it is extremely doubtful if there has ever lived in an age since the advent of civilization, a man with a keener grasp of, or a deeper insight into, such democratic ideals as are essential to the promotion of personal liberty and the extension of human happiness."
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State News 7
April 14, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives
By the end of the 13th week al from the ABC. This bill also of the 2021 Regular Session, allows restaurants to remit sales more than 600 bills were signed taxes in quarterly payments rathinto law. er than monthly for the next year. This week, the House voted Education: in favor of a bill temporarily SB160-This bill states that in changing the deadline for filing the 2022-2023 school year, Holoand paying state income tax. caust education shall be taught SB593 extends the deadline in all public schools in a manner this year to May 17, aligning John Maddox that generates an understanding the date with the recent exof the causes, course, and effects tension issued for filing federal income of the Holocaust. tax. SB524-This bill states that by August The also House voted in favor of the 1, 2022, each public school district and following bills addressing law enforce- open-enrollment public charter school ment, mental health, alcohol sales, and in the state shall prepare a three-year education: teacher and administrator recruitment Law Enforcement and retention plan. The plan should inHB1865-This bill requires all law en- clude goals for recruitment and retenforcement officers in the state to com- tion of teachers and administrators of plete annual training related to a law minority races and ethnicities who inenforcement officer’s duty to intervene crease diversity among the district staff if the law enforcement officer observes and, at a minimum, reflect the racial and the use of excessive force by another law ethnic diversity of the district’s students. enforcement officer. SB394-This bill states that a pubHB1680-This bill states law enforce- lic school district or open-enrollment ment agencies must assist a law enforce- charter school shall conduct a comprement officer involved in a critical inci- hensive school safety audit every three dent in obtaining services that may help years to assess the safety, security, accesthe officer recover from psychological sibility, and emergency preparedness of effects. district buildings and grounds in collabMental Health oration with local law enforcement, fire, HB1689-This bill will create an Ar- and emergency management officials. kansas Legislative Study on Mental and HB1794-This bill creates the Licensed Behavioral Health. Practical Nurse Pathway Pilot Program. SB27-This bill requires the Arkansas It states that the Division of Elementary Department of Health to ensure that the and Secondary Education, in consultaSuicide Prevention Hotline employs in- tion with the Division of Higher Edudividuals who have experience working cation, shall establish and implement a with veterans or are veterans. program in which high school students Alcohol Sales/Service Industry may enroll in undergraduate courses reHB1748-This bill states that a refer- quired to obtain a diploma or certificate endum election to allow the sale of al- of completion as a licensed practical coholic beverages on Sunday may be nurse by the date on which the public called by a city or county if the govern- school student graduates or within a ing body adopts a resolution by a two- reasonable frame of time after the pubthirds majority vote. lic school student graduates. SB479-This bill states that a restaurant HB1701-This bill states that a teachwith a valid alcoholic beverage permit er of a K-12 science class at a public from the Alcoholic Beverage Control school or open-enrollment public charDivision (ABC) may expand its outdoor ter school may teach creationism as a dining availability with approval from theory. the municipality or county’s local govYou can find a complete list of agenernment zoning authority, which it is das and links to live streams at www.arlocated without obtaining prior approv- kansashouse.org.
From the
State Senate
Arkansas became the nizable and identifiable first state in the nation to group or class who share prohibit physicians from mental, physical, biologperforming gender transiical, cultural, political, or tion procedures on minors, religious beliefs or chareither through surgery or acteristics.” hormone therapy. Sponsors of the bill said Under SB 622, offendthat children needed pro- Larry Teague ers would not be eligible tection from experimentafor parole until they have tion. They said that minors are too served at least 80 percent of their young to make such important de- original sentence if they purposely cisions as choosing a sex change, chose a victim because of the vicwhich has long-term health effects tim’s class or group. that can be irreversible. Prosecutors would have to ask for The governor vetoed the legisla- delayed release during the initial tion, House Bill 1570, saying that trial. The judge or jury would deterit put government between physi- mine whether the offender’s release cians and young people and their should be delayed because of the parents. He also noted that some aggravating circumstances. young people in Arkansas are curAccording to the FBI, in 2019 rently undergoing a gender change there were nine crimes committed and will not be allowed continued in Arkansas whose causes were retreatment. lated to bias. However, not all of the The legislature voted to override state’s law enforcement agencies rethe veto. The Senate vote was 25-toported to the FBI. 8 and in the House it was 71-to-24. Also last week, the Senate apHB 1570 is one of several bills proved HB 1614 to raise teacher this legislative session that affect salaries in districts where they earn transgender people. less than the state average. DisparAct 461 effectively prohibits ities in salaries is one of the major transgender boys who identify as obstacles in recruiting and retaingirls from competing in sports. It ing good teachers in small, rural allows a civil action by girls who are and isolated districts. deprived of athletic opportunities According to state education offibecause the school allowed a boy to cials, the gap in salaries between the compete instead. In the lawsuit, the girl could seek monetary damages richest and the poorest school disfor any psychological, emotional or tricts is more than $21,000 a year. HB 1614 creates a special “equalphysical harm. ization” fund that will start with A similar measure, Senate Bill about $25 million, which will be 450, has been approved by the Sendistributed to schools that now pay ate. It requires schools to designate less than the state average teacher their varsity sports programs for salary. girls, boys or coed. If a boy is alIt’s estimated that the money will lowed to play a girls sports, the girl can file a lawsuit to stop it, and the increase average teacher salaries in school could lose its public funding. those districts by about $2,000 over In other news the Senate ap- the next two years. Last year the avproved SB 622, a version of what is erage teacher salary for Arkansas has been labelled as a “hate crimes” was $49,822. Over the next two years, the goal bill. It mandates longer prison sentences for violent offenders who of HB 1614 is to bring the average target someone who is in a “recog- salary up to $51,822.
8 Faith
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
An Arkie’s Faith: I Can See Clearly Now
By Richie Lawry
“I can see clearly now the rain is gone. I can see all obstacles in my way. Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind. It’s gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day.” Whenever I hear these words and the lively, reggae-inspired music, I am transported back to my high school days. In the fall and winter of 1972, you couldn’t turn on the radio without hearing the beautifully fuzzed-out guitar, the lithe, supple bassline, and Johnny Nash’s effortless voice singing lyrics, full of life and joyous redemption. The song spent four weeks at #1 on the Billboard charts and gave us hope that there were better things ahead. Johnny Nash was 32 when he hit #1 with “I Can See Clearly Now,” and he’d already had 15 years in the music business. Nash came from Houston, and he grew up singing in church. As a teenager, his beautiful tenor was compared to Johnny Mathis’s voice. In the 60s, he moved to Jamaica while co-running a record company and helped launch his friend Bob Marley’s career. He enjoyed some success in 1968 with the song “Hold Me Tight,” but “I Can See Clearly Now” was his most successful single. The obituary that ran in the Associated Press when Johnny Nash died in October 2020 referred to his biggest hit this way. “‘I Can See Clearly Now” was a story of overcoming hard times that itself raised the spirits of countless listeners, with its swelling pop-reggae groove, promise of a “bright, bright sunshiny day” and Nash’s gospel-styled exclamation midway, “Look straight ahead, nothing but blue skies!”, a backing chorus lifting the words into the heavens.” Seeing clearly is essential in life. A few weeks ago, I had a bad experience while floating the Ouachita River. During one of my unintentional swims in the river, I lost my glasses. I could no longer see things clearly. That week, I called my ophthalmologist, Dr. Ennen, and made an appointment to get my eyes tested. On the day of the appointment, I checked in at the front desk, and then a technician led me to an alcove where there was an OCT Imaging System. The machine captures images of the eye, allowing Dr. Ennen to see certain diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration years in advance. Next, the doctor performed a refraction test. If you’ve ever had an eye exam, you’re familiar with the refraction test. You place your face up to the machine, and then the doc-
tor flips down the first lens, then another, while you say which of the two helps you see the letters on the eye chart more clearly. Is it lens one or two, lens three or four? Which one is better? After the refraction test, the doctor dilated my eyes. Pupil dilation increases the pupils’ size during an eye exam so that the doctor can thoroughly examine the health of the optic nerve and retina. The exam is critical to preventing and treating eye conditions that could potentially lead to vision loss. Next, I picked out frames and paid my bill. My glasses would be ready in about a week. As I reflected on the vision test, it made me wonder if I was looking at my life through the correct lens. Was it possible to flip down a different lens and see a better story? The Apostle Paul seems to have had problems with his eyesight. Many biblical scholars point to Galatians 6:11 (NLT) as evidence. Here Paul wrote, “Notice what large letters I use as I write these closing words in my own handwriting.” Even if Paul had poor eyesight, his spiritual sight remained exceptionally clear.
During his time preaching the gospel, he was flogged, whipped, and stoned many times. He had been shipwrecked, bitten by a snake, outcast, and ridiculed. Several times, he was imprisoned, and some of his life was spent under house arrest in Rome, all for preaching the gospel. And yet he was still able to write, “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NLT) While he was in prison, Paul wrote to the Philippians, “I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” Philippians 1:12-14 (NIV) Which lens helped Paul see more clearly? Was it lens one or two? Paul didn’t see himself as stuck in prison because of Jesus; he saw himself as stationed in jail for Jesus. He didn’t see himself as chained to a Roman guard; he saw the Roman guard as chained to him. The guards had to listen to Paul talk about Jesus day in and day out. Paul had time to write letters to the churches. Who put Paul in prison? From the outside looking in, it appeared the Roman rulers put him there. But from the inside looking out, Paul knew God had positioned him there. He didn’t see himself as imprisoned; he considered himself stationed. And because he was looking through the right lens, he had joy even in a difficult situation. Gentle Reader, I wish that I could see as clearly as Paul did, but I can’t. When things go wrong, I pout, I get angry, and I become discouraged. But I try to remember to flip the lens and look at my circumstances through the eyes of God instead of the lens of my selfishness. And that gives me a better outcome. Not because the storyline changes, but because my perspective does. When I allow God to help me see through the correct lens, I can sing: “I can see clearly now the rain is gone. I can see all obstacles in my way. Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind. It’s gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day.”
Joke of the Week: I’m publishing a book about reverse psychology. Please don’t buy it.
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Outdoors 9
April 14, 2021
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL
NAVIGATIONAL TIPS By Steven Stillwell
DON’T GET LOST. Sometimes our sense of direction isn’t as reliable as we think, especially if we’re hiking through dense foliage, tall timber, or there’s a lot of cloud cover. It’s always wise to carry a compass, but what if there aren’t any distinguishable landmarks to use for navigational purposes? We can easily determine directions, but how can we safely return to camp if we’ve wondered off course and lost our way? One of the easiest methods to use if you don’t want to get lost is called, BASELINE NAVIGATION, but you’ll need a compass for this to work. Here’s a basic example of how this is done. Let’s pretend that we want to explore a certain tract of forest, and there’s a dirt road that extends for several miles, from east to west. Using this established barrier as a BASELINE, we can hike north, do some exploring, and if we veer off course, we can still head south and safely find our way back. THE TRICK IS, knowing how far the road extends in both directions, and not traveling beyond the point where we lose our BASELINE. In most cases this could encompass several miles. With a basic understanding of this technique, we can also use this method with streams, rivers, trails or other lengthy milestones such as power-lines. If you’re not familiar with a compass,
I’ll give you a crash-course. Most compasses have what’s called a rotating bezel that sits on top. Some people refer to this as a dial, and it has numbers, ranging from 0 to 360 degrees. Technically, your compass will have a 359 degree marker, and when you rotate the bezel to ZERO, it’s the same as 360 degrees. This sounds confusing, but when you study the features, it’s not. Your compass will also have a magnetized needle that responds to what’s called magnetic North, and it will always point in this direction. There are also a couple of variables referred to as True North, Magnetic North, and Declination. Fortunately, declination is a negligible factor in Arkansas, so I ignore this when I’m hiking in our area. If I trav-
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eled north and wanted to return to the BASELINE road in our illustration, 180 degrees would point the way. For those of us who carry rifles or knifes, be sure to keep them several feet away from your compass when determining directions. Held in close proximity, steel objects will cause your needle to fluctuate, and this will throw you off course. THIS IS HOW I CONSERVE MY BATTERIES. Global Positioning Systems commonly referred to as a GPS, can make hiking and exploring so much easier, but they have one weakness; BATTERIES. Over the years, I’ve learned a TRICK that helps me compensate for this disadvantage, so I’ll share my secret. First of all, you’ll need to determine where you want to go, after powering your unit up. WAYPOINTS are markers that are stored in your GPS memory system, so choose one. On your viewing screen, you’ll see a BEARING which is a directional in-
dicator, and a set of numbers ranging from 0 to 359 degrees. Let’s keep this simple and say that 180 degrees is the direction you wish to go. Using your compass, rotate the bezel to this number, and TURN YOUR GPS OFF. The magnetic needle will still point north, but your line of travel will face south as you manipulate the compass in your hand. If I’m hiking long distances, I’ll periodically turn my GPS back on, reacquire my position, and quickly turn the unit off. By doing this, my batteries usually last an entire hunting season before they’re completely drained. As a safety precaution, I always carry extra batteries, and two compasses. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SURVIVAL? We invite you to listen to our podcast, The Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival Show. You can also find us on Facebook, so feel free to join us. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.
Christy Titsworth started at United Country in 2016 and fast became a top agent. In 2017 she and her husband John were the top selling team in the Mena Area Board of Realtors. 2 In 2018 she was the top producing female agent in the MLS and since 2019 has been the top selling agent in the MLS, outperforming everyone in the trade. She has come a long way and continues to serve buyers and sellers in Polk, Scott and Montgomery Counties in Arkansas.
Christy Titsworth Sales Associate United Country Arkansas Properties 479-394-7545 Office 479-216-0050 Cell 479-394-3444 Fax ww www.unitedcountrymena.com christy@unitedcountrymena.com
10 Community
April 14, 2021
Prepared for spring storm season
SWEPCO offers five simple tips to stay safe
Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO) is prepared for spring storm season, as thunderstorms, high winds and flash floods can pop up with little warning. “Spring storms can do extensive damage to our electrical system,” said Drew Seidel, SWEPCO vice president, Distribution Region Operations. “The combination of high winds and heavy rains can often lead to uprooted trees or broken limbs on power lines.” When storms and high winds damage the electric grid, SWEPCO crews work as safely and quickly as possible to restore power. Follow these five simple tips to help keep you safe, prepared and connected in the event of severe weather: 1. Plan Ahead Develop a plan for you and your family. Identify a safe area, and decide now
what you’ll do if there’s an extended power outage. Be sure to contact family, friends, neighbors with young children, the elderly or people with medical conditions to ensure they also have a plan. 2. Make an emergency outage kit Get ahead of storms by putting together an emergency preparedness kit that includes (at minimum): non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a portable cell phone charging bank, a blanket or sleeping bag, a first aid kit and any necessary medications. 3. Stay away from downed lines Remember, all downed lines are dangerous — they can carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. If you see a fallen wire, stay away and keep others away, including children and pets. Call SWEPCO at 1-888-218-3919 or 911 immediately. 4. Remember, safety first If the power goes out, always use caution with any alternate lighting sources, cooking, cooling or heating. Never
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operate lanterns, heaters, generators, fuel-fired stoves or burn charcoal without proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires. If you use a portable or RV generator, do not plug the generator into your home’s main electrical panel. This can “back-feed” electricity into outside utility lines, creating the danger of electrocution for repair crews and the public. Instead, read the manufacturer’s
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
instructions, and only plug essential appliances directly into the generator. 5.Stay in the know It’s easy to stay connected. Report outages and check restoration status by: • Downloading the SWEPCO mobile app: SWEPCO.com/App • Signing up to get SWEPCO alerts: SWEPCO.com/Alerts • Following SWEPCO on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for updates.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
Community 11
Brown Center for Rehabilitation named in honor of physical therapy advocate
The recently opened Green House Cottages of Homewood has named its rehabilitation center after Dr. David Brown. The Brown Center for Rehabilitation honors Brown’s services as the medical director for many years. “His years of service to Polk County at the nursing home have not gone unnoticed. There many, many years on call - day and night,” said Vicki Hughes, director of the cottages. Brown began at Rich Mountain Nursing Home approximately 25 years ago. “When Dr Austin retired , I took over the duties at Rich Mountain Nursing Home,” Brown said. “At the same time I took over Mena Manor.” Brown’s dedication to the health and well being of elderly patients has improved the lives and outcomes of many patients. “People have to have a special niche to work with older people, the same goes for pediatricians or other areas. This area is my preference. I enjoy that group.” Brown said he wanted to be a doctor since he was a child. “I enjoyed helping people,” he said.
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After becoming a respiratory therapist, Brown decided in 1984 to attended medical school in the Dominican Republic. “It was different - the fact that it was a third world country, you have to be willing to adapt.” Brown’s residency occurred through the Area Health and Education Center out of Little Rock. Through the changes that have occurred in the healthcare industry, Brown said he has weathered the storm. “There will always be complaints and changes,” he said. “You simply have to handle it. There is no if, ands, or buts. You make the changes and comply despite the challenges.” Brown said he is honored to have the rehabilitation center named for his work. “I order a lot of therapy and think that residents should receive the most appropriate care and therapies they can handle. I’m a propionate and advocate of physical therapy. “I hope the community knows and remembers that someone cared about their loved ones and tried to provide the most appropriate care.”
12 Child Abuse Awareness
Child Abuse Fast Facts • It’s estimated that at least 1 in 7 children in the US has experienced child abuse and/or neglect in the past year. • Neglect is the most common form of child abuse, followed by physical abuse, sexual abuse, and psychological abuse. • In 2018, about 16% of children who were abused experienced more than one kind of maltreatment. • Boys and girls experience similar rates of childhood abuse (48.6% and 51% respectively). • Rates of child abuse and neglect are 5 times higher for children in families with low socio-economic status compared to children in families with higher socio-economic status. • Children younger than one year old are the most vulnerable to maltreatment, accounting for almost half of child fatalities from abuse in 2018. • In 2018, 76% of child abuse perpetrators were a parent to their victim. • In 2018, 62% of children placed in foster care were removed from their homes due to abusive neglect, totalling over 160,000 children. • Children who experienced any form of violence in childhood have a 13% greater likelihood of not graduating from high school. • Adult survivors of childhood abuse are more likely to experience mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders. • Adult survivors of childhood abuse are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors like smoking, alcohol and drug use, and unsafe sex. They’re also more likely to report overall lower health than those who haven’t experienced childhood abuse. OBSERVING
NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Striving for Positive Outcomes for Children of Abuse
April 14, 2021
NOW STREAMING ON ITUNES, SPOTIFY, AMAZON, GOOGLE PLAY, AND STITCHER
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. We all understand that the best way to prevent the abuse of children is to strengthen families. Today I’d like to share the story of state employees whose intervention stabilized a family and allowed a mother to keep her children. Too often, help for abused children arrives too late. In Mountain Home, a call from police set the system in motion, and DHS caseworkers from the Division of Children and Family Services came to a family’s aid before the family spiraled out of control. When police arrested a woman for driving under the influence for a second straight night, they contacted DHS staff to alert them that the woman’s children were not safe with her. The staff reacted quickly and found foster care for the children. With the support of the DHS caseworkers, the mother successfully completed substance-abuse treatment. Three months later, the DHS employees reunited the mother with her children. With the help of the caseworkers at DHS, the mother had established a support system and changed the future for her family. The case has now been closed. The happy ending to this story was possible because our DHS employees are well trained and compassionate. But many stories don’t end well, as the First Lady has seen firsthand. What she saw “captured her heart,” as she says, which is why she supports the Children Advocacy Centers of Arkansas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve heard much about the frontline workers. In family issues, school teachers and pastors are among the frontline workers because they interact with children on a regular basis. Since I declared a health emergency more than a year ago, the child abuse hotline has received over 3,100 calls. That is almost fifty percent fewer than the number of reports the previous year. But that’s not because there is less abuse of children. During times when children spend more time at home, whether it’s during a rare health crisis or every summer when they are out of school, abuse goes undetected, says Elizabeth Pulley, director of Children Advocacy Centers of Arkansas. That’s because professionals such as teachers and pastors who are required to report suspected abuse aren’t interacting with the children. That means the rest of us must remain more vigilant in observing the young people we encounter. The welfare of children is a high priority for the First Lady and me, both personally and in my role as governor. My office has a liaison who is in daily communication with the various agencies and organizations that oversee the protection of our children. We have a great partnership with the Department of Human Services and Division of Children and Family Services. We want to prevent abuse rather than react to it, as DHS staff was able to do in Mountain Home. Our hope and goal is that all the stories can have a happy ending.
Children are our future, it’s up to us to protect them!
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
13
April 14, 2021
From the
U.S. Senate
America’s Favorite Pastime Should Unify Rather Than Divide Throughout the COVID-19 of Famers trained in the city at pandemic, sports embodied one point during their careers the optimism we all shared including Babe Ruth. The Sulfor better days ahead. Now, tan of Swat demonstrated his unfortunately, we are seeing well-known slugging skills just how eager some are to during spring training in 1918, use them as a tool to advance hitting what has become recagendas and narratives that ognized as the first 500-foot should stay in the realm of John Boozman home run. politics and as far removed After major league teams as possible from the places we go to left to train in warmer locales like Arfor entertainment, camaraderie and izona and Florida, the Negro Leagues inspiration. Major League Baseball’s adopted the training grounds and esrecent decision to relocate the All-Star tablished Hot Springs as a premier logame away from Georgia is just the cation for African-American baseball latest example, and it demonstrates players to play and train. Its presence how this trend continues to evolve and was so significant that an additional escalate. ballpark was constructed to accomIt doesn’t have to be this way. In modate the number of teams playing Arkansas, we can look to the past for in the community. proof that sports are much better used The Historic Baseball Trail in Hot as a unifying force than a vehicle for Springs celebrates the community’s division and political strife. distinctive place in the game’s past. As fans head back to major league The stops along the route take us back ballparks, it’s appropriate to remem- to the locations where baseball legber our state’s unique role in shaping ends honed their skills, dazzled fans this celebrated pastime. Long before on the diamond and launched the the Diamond Hogs were a top-ranked spring training tradition. team, Major League Baseball team Baseball is supposed to bring us toowners found the state a prime loca- gether, not divide us along political or tion to condition players and get ready cultural lines. It’s time we got back to for the upcoming season, launching that and rejected efforts to use sports the tradition of spring training. as a wedge to alienate and polarize As the first baseball franchise to un- Americans. Because of our state’s pardertake a preseason residence in 1886, ticular history with and connection to the Chicago White Stockings owner what is still referred to as America’s faconsidered several locations before vorite pastime, Arkansans know this is eventually landing on Hot Springs. still possible. As a new season gets unSeveral factors influenced this deci- derway, we must leave politics on the sion, most notably the mild winter cli- campaign trail and out of ballparks, mate that allowed for outdoor training stadiums and arenas that still hold the and the city’s waters purported to have promise of uniting and captivating us curative properties that were ideal for in ways that transcend backgrounds recovery. and beliefs. More than 100 future Baseball Hall
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14 Community
April 14, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Expressing the Ouachitas: Mena Art Gallery’s Longest-Running Show
By Trey Youngdahl Judging has been finalized on the 2021 Ouachita Expressions show. Starting in 2002 after the gallery moved into its new building, this is the oldest running show from the gallery. The Expressions show is a multimedia art show with a broad range of mediums for different tastes and interests, setting this show apart from others the gallery hosts. This exhibit showcases art in several different forms including paintings, blown glass, photography, and woven pine needle baskets. Due to its broad scope of both medium and subject matter, the show has become so popular that it has been extended to run until May 1, a week over what was originally scheduled. Not only is this exhibit eclectic in it’s art forms, but also in it’s contributing artists. The youngest artist in the show is 14 year old Emmaline Rath. The oldest artist who participated in the show is in their 80’s. Because The Mena Art Gallery is all-inclusive, any aspiring artist who wants to get involved is encouraged
to join and become a Southwest Artist member. “The Mena Art Gallery is one of the best kept secrets in town. We don’t want to continue being a secret.” Lynn said. “Even if you can’t do art, it’s free to come in and appreciate it.” There are several benefits afforded to artists who join. Because every piece in the gallery is for sale, it’s a great way to not only contribute to the community, but also to make money from your art. Local artist Jim Brace shared what inspires his art work. “Painting faces comes from way back when - when I was a kid. I saw the pop art of the soup cans and contemporary art of the era,” Brace said. “The pop art at the time was heavy into the faces in that style, and that was very influential to me.” For more information, you can visit The Mena Art Gallery is located in the downtown arts district at downtown Mena Street across from the Ouachita Little Theatre. They are open Wednesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. At right, One of the pieces featured in the Ouachita Expressions show is this painting titled ‘Muddy Waters’, by Jim Brace At left, Mena Art Gallery Director Lynn Greenwade welcomes community members to the Ouachita Expressions show.
MOVIE IN THE PARK
THE JESUS FILM FRIDAY, APRIL 23, 2021 JANSSEN PARK 8:00 PM
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THE POLK COUNTY
April 14, 2021 Pulse Arise show filmed locally, aims to uplift and encourage Submitted by Bobbie Himel
A local group of women from Mena and Mt. Ida-have produced a show that is currently on Divine Spirit Network & YouTube. “We have 12 episodes recorded and will have one released a week for the next 12 weeks. I believe this show will help people overcome the issues that have arisen from fear, depression, and anxiety, Bobbie Himel said. Arise includes a group of women who have experienced and overcame it themselves or have dealt with someone who has been or is going through depression, fear, anxiety and more. Our goal is to be a light to the audience so they will be excited to tune in and view us as friends to look to for support. “During Covid19, fear and mental health issues rose from 1% – 125% according to the CDC. Depression rose approximately
Community 15
40.9%, suicides approximately 10%, and substance abuse approximately 12%. I have put together a TALK SHOW I believe will help others in dealing with, and overcoming, the issues that have arisen from fear, depression, and anxiety.” Topics include: -How to Arise Out of Fear -How to Arise into a Relationship with Christ -How to Arise Out of Negativity -How to Arise to Choose Faith Over Fear, such as fear of sickness -How to Arise into our Purpose -How to Arise and Overcome Rejection from Family and Friends -How to Arise Out of Negative or Photo by Levi Holmes / The Wandering Squirrel Abusive Relationships -How to Arise with Lasting Joy Arise is a group of women talking about everyday issues and includes panel-How to Arise and Love again The show can be can accessed t at ist Jenny Graves, Crystal Dehart, Bobbie Himel, Jada Beechy, Gwena Hooper, Le-Ann Holmes, and Derenda King. arisetalkshow.com.
Kaye Hunter for 45 YEARS
of Dedicated Service
George S Davis, Agent 410 Sherwood Ave, Suite 1 Mena, AR 71953 Bus: 479-394-4521 Res: 479-394-1895 george.davisb9ms@statefarm.com
16 Around Town Women – 40 and Over Have you had your mammogram this year? The UAMS Mobile MammoVan will provide on-site mammograms at the Polk County Health Department in Mena. This service is provided by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. May 19th 2021 at 9am at Polk County Health Department , 702 Hornbeck Avenue in Mena Contact: UAMS Mobile Mammography at 1-800-259-8794 * Mammograms are by appointment only. Please call the office to schedule. With or Without Insurance. Pre-registration is required.*Must be 40 and older
April 14, 2021
Around Town
Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3 p.m. Sundays, at 5 p.m. Tuesdays and at 8p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-216-3786 Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Monday, at 7 p.m. Thursday, at 7 p.m. Friday, and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at 479-216-7249. The Mena Lioness Club is asking the community to make donations to the Backpack Program, which sends food home with children during the school year. It cost $126 to sponsor one child for the year, or $14 a month. To help assist the program and help a food insecure child through this program, drop off donations at UnionBank, to the BackPack program or mail donations to Mena Lioness Lions, PO Box 688, Mena AR 71953.
their spring concert, Rock n Roll Is Here to Stay, on Thursday, April 15 in the Holbert Auditorium in Wickes, AR. The concert will be divided into 3 separate performances. Beginning that night will be the Sr. High Eagle Band at 6:00 pm. The second concert of the evening will be the 7 th /8 th grade Jr. High Eagle Choirs beginning at 6:45 pm. The last concert of the evening will be at 7:30 pm and feature the Senior High All Girls Choir, Cantabile, and the Senior High Mixed Choir, Noteworthy.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse The Ouachita Expressions Show at the Mena Art Gallery is open through April 24th. This multi-media show includes blown glass, fused glass, pine needle baskets, ceramics, wood, paintings, drawings, photography, fabric arts, and an antique doll with hand-made dresses. Something for everyone, and the Gift Store is full. OLT Presents “Greater Tuna” this April! Opening night is Friday, April 16 at 7:30; another evening performance is Saturday, April 17, and a Sunday matinee will be performed April 18 at 2:30 PM. Season tickets will be honored, or tickets may be purchased for $10 at the door. You can also buy advance tickets at the OLT office on Main Street on Fridays between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
The Polk County Extension Office and Quality of LIfe Coalition are co-sponsoring the 2021 Walk Across Polk County again this year and it begins this week! They are looking to register 6 more teams to join in the fun. Each team can consist of 8 individuals and registration is $10. The Quality of LIfe is unable to offer blood draws this year It’s easy to have your but 1/2 of all proceeds are event listed in Around being donated to the Polk Town, which will be read GriefShare is starting a new County Backpack Program. on radio stations KENA and 13 week series at First Presbyterian Church in Mena. April 14 - OLT’s Wednesday KQOR daily. Simply send Meetings are each Thursday night at the Lyric will feature your Around Town announcefrom 10 am until noon and Fred Astaire and Judy Gar- ment to news@mypulsenews. are open to anyone in the land in “Easter Parade” at com or call 479-243-9600 community grieving the loss 6:30 PM. Admission is free and let us know about your of a loved one. For more and concessions are cheap! event! To have it in the Polk information call 479-234- Masks and social distancing County Pulse newspaper, we 3419. are currently still in effect at need to know by FIVE on OLT. Thanks for your coop- FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the comThe Cossatot River High eration! School Music Dept will present munity!
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
THE CROSS AND THE VEIL The pivotal point in all of human history occurred in that immeasurable moment in time in which the Son of God took His last breath and His body ceased to live. He died. His death was completely real. For those who looked on, it may have looked like the greatest tragedy ever, but from our point of view, two thousand years later, it was the greatest and most significant event in all of the history of the universe. As a witness to the event, the “veil of the temple” was split in two from top to bottom. (Mt. 27:51). Two verses need to be read together for they are together in the Book: “And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and YIELDED UP HIS SPIRIT.” This was the death of the Savior. It is immediately followed by “... and behold, the veil of the temple was split in two from top to bottom” (Mt. 27:50,51) From top to bottom? Yes. It is as if two giant hands grasped the veil at the top and ripped it into two pieces, thereby revealing everything that was, until then, behind the veil, and thus making entry into the Holy of Holies accessible to those who could not previously go there. So what was behind the veil? What was hidden? What was it that was shielded from ordinary men? The Presence of God! Once each year, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest would lift a corner of the veil and then he would enter into the Holy of Holies (the presence of God) where he would then sprinkle the blood of a lamb on the Mercy Seat. This sprinkling of blood would suffice for the forgiveness of the sins of the people and the high priest himself. And ONLY the high priest could go into this holy Presence, and he could go only one time a year. No one else was permitted. Why blood? Because LIFE was in the blood(see Lev. 17:11), and LIFE must be given for sin, and that LIFE must be a “Lamb Without Blemish” (Exodus 12:5). The “Lamb Without Blemish” is one of the most beautiful pictures of the Savior in the entire Bible. Jesus was the “Lamb Without Blemish” and the Lamb of Exodus 12 points directly and clearly to Him...and to Him only. Now, here it is: because of sin ordinary men and women could not go directly into the presence of God, into the Holy of Holies; only the high priest could do that. When Jesus died the awful penalty/payment for sin was completed (remember “the wage of sin is death”). When Jesus died he became “...sin on our behalf that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (II Cor. 5:21). When Jesus died the power of sin was defeated! The penalty was paid, in full! So when one looks to the cross in faith, His death becomes our death. In the precise moment of His death, the veil that had separated ordinary men and women from the presence of God was destroyed! It was removed! And the thing that it symbolized so dramatically was that now, through Christ and the Cross, all who believe in Him can approach the Father...but ONLY through Him. Christ is our High Priest (Hebrews 9: 11-15), our only priest, and He has sprinkled His own blood, (the blood of an “unblemished Lamb”) on the mercy seat in Heaven, and through this we have forgiveness, and in that forgiven state we are permitted into the Presence of the Almighty God! Note: in Christ and His death on the cross, forgiveness of sin and sins is extended to the whole world, but it must be received in faith in order for it to be effective. It is ours, but we must reach out to receive it. Faith means that we invite Him, Jesus Christ, into our lives as LORD AND SAVIOR! My name is Gene Stacks and I approve of this message. PAID ADVERTISEMENT
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USDA Retracts Notification of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease in Arkansas LITTLE ROCK – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has contacted the Arkansas Department of Agriculture to report a significant error at their Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory on a previously reported finding of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease in Arkansas. On March 30, 2021, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services’ (VS), National Veterinary Services Laboratories, Foreign Animal Disease Laboratory (NVSL-FADDL) reported a detection of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type 2 (RHDV2) in one domestic rabbit in northeast Arkansas. NVSL-FADDL notified the Arkansas State Animal Health Official and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, which initiated the appropriate disease response activities. The Department has received notification from the NVSL-FADDL that ancillary testing and review of other diagnostic cases revealed an error which led to the previously reported positive finding. The Department is currently working to notify the appropriate rabbit and veterinarian communities. A copy of the notification from APHIS can be found https://www.agriculture.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/USDA-Letter-of-Retraction-of-RHD-Positive-Finding-in-Arkansas.pdf. More information on Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease is available at https:// www.agriculture.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/200614_4CP-Rabbit-Hemorrhagic-Disease-Brochure.pdf.
18 Police Reports
April 14, 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
April 5, 2021 Report from complainant on Dalton Lane near Vandervoort of a domestic disturbance. Deputy responded. Complainant refused to press charges. Report from complainant on Polk 71 near Ink of the theft of a truck and an engine and transmission valued at $5,500.00. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Harris Road near Hatfield of the theft of rental property. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Report from complainant on Spencer Lane near Board Camp of problems with a tenant. Deputy responded. Arrested was Kobe G. Hogan, 22, of Mena, on a Warrant for Battery 3 rd Degree and a Warrant for Criminal Mischief 2 nd Degree. April 6, 2021 Report of an altercation on North Eve Street near Mena. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Report of a structure fire on Polk 26 near Hatfield. Deputy responded. April 7, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 185 near Ink of the theft of a metal detector valued at $150.00. Deputy responded.
April 8, 2021 Report of threats being made by a juvenile male led to a Juvenile Citation for Terroristic Threatening being issued. Juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Report from complainant on Rogers Drive near Cove of identity fraud. Arrested was Loyd D. Bolton, 50, of Mena, on a Charge of Domestic Battery 3 rd Degree. April 9, 2021 Report from complainant on Trailers Inn Lane near Cove of being threatened. Deputy responded. Report of an individual impersonating a government official. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 67 near Big Fork of ATV’s driving on private property. Deputy responded. Arrested was Christopher L. Chesser, 35, of Wickes, on a Warrant for Domestic Battery 3 rd Degree and a Body Attachment Warrant. April 10, 2021 Report of a vehicle accident on Hwy 71N near Mena. Deputy responded. Report of a fire on Polk 58 near Board Camp. Deputy responded. Report of vandalism led to Juvenile Citations being issued to two juvenile males. Juveniles were released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested was Jimmy L. Wright, 35, of Mena, on three Warrants for Criminal Contempt, a Warrant for Assault in the 1 st Degree and Harassment, a Warrant for Probation Violation and a Body Attachment Warrant. April 11, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk
257 near Wickes of a break-in. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Hwy 88E near Ink of trespassing. Deputy responded. Report of a disturbance on Polk 26 near Hatfield. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked no vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 18 Incarcerated Inmates, with 8 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORTS April 4, 2021 A report of drinking in public was taken after a traffic stop on Highway 71. A report of criminal mischief was taken from Splash Car Wash. A report of breaking or entering and criminal mischief, that occurred in the parking lot of the Mena hospital, was taken from a walk-in complainant. Clayton Barton, 18, was charged with Speeding and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor after a traffic stop on Highway 71. April 5, 2021 Joshua Smith, 29, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Janssen Avenue. A report of disorderly conduct and criminal mischief was taken after a disturbance call on Reeves Avenue. A report of a disturbance was taken at a residence on Bert Street. A report of theft of property (shop-
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse lifting) was taken from Walmart. A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. April 6, 2021 A report of a disturbance was taken at a residence on Dickson Road. A report of criminal trespass was taken from Walmart. April 7, 2021 Cara Holliday, 34, was charged with Possession of Schedule 2 Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Highway 71. A juvenile was charged with Domestic Battery 3 rd Degree after a call to a residence on Marian Street. A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. Julia Cureton, 45, was served with three warrants at the police department. April 8, 2021 Nevada Woodruff, 31, was charged with Possession of a Schedule 2 Controlled Substance and served with a warrant after a traffic stop on highway 71. A report of theft was taken from a business on Sherwood Avenue. Robert Morris, 20, was charged with Possession of a Schedule 6 Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a traffic stop on East Boundary Road. April 9, 2021 Gerald Sanders, 49, was charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a complaint from Walmart. Cody Dees, 35, was served with two warrants after a crash report was taken on Bethesda Road. April 10, 2021 A theft of property (shoplifting) report was taken from Coast to Coast. Veronica Maddox, 23, was charged with Criminal Trespass after a complaint from Walmart.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 19
April 14, 2021
04.14.21
04.14.21
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 04.07.21
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! My name is Oreo Baby! I am a friendly and engaging lady cat. I love to be petted and will come to greet you for petting. If you are looking for a curious affectionate cat, I might be the new best friend you have been waiting to find. I have a beautiful black and white coat with green eyes. I am an independent cat, who enjoys people. I am about 4 years old and weigh in at about 7 pounds. I am litter box trained. In fact I would need to go to home where I can be kept indoors because it is all I have known. 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 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
20 Classifieds - LOST LOST- Black and Tan Terrior from Yocana area. Has black collar and answers to Cooper. (479)216-8604 T041421
- EVENTS Gilbert Forrest - He will return to Christ’s Church of Cove (God willing) April 18th at 11 AM. Everyone is welcome to hear him bring the message and celebrate the 41st anniversary of the church with old and new friends. At noon, enjoy a fellowship meal while renewing old friendships and making new ones. Church address is 5234 highway 71 South, Cove, AR.
- EMPLOYMENT HIRING- Must have proof of 1 year experience, CNA, PCA, or HHA. Must pass background check, drug free, drivers license, and have transportation. Individual trained, companionship, preparing meals, arrands, bathing, grooming, and housekeeping. Call All Ages Homecare (501)623-2000 or (501)3188221. T042121
WE’RE HIRING! Join the staff of Wendy’s or Baskin Robbins today!
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also lite deliveries. (870)4901191 T120220 If you like the Pulse’s photos, contact Trey Youngdahl at (479)234-7827 to schedule a photo shoot today! Instagram: @youngish.trey; Facebook: @treyyoungdahl/photography; website: treyyoungdahl.com Mowing, weedeating, and hedge trimming- When you need an extra hand in Mena/Polk County call 479-234-0509. Please leave a message 070721
- NOTICE POLK COUNTY PUBLIC HEARINGSecond Public Hearing to be held Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at 6pm in the Quorum Court Room at the Polk County Office Complex located at 606 Pine Street in Mena. The purpose of this hearing is to inform citizens of the current scope of progress of the following Arkansas Community and Economic Development Program (ACEDP) projects: Polk County Cossatot Senior Center Project #790-09043-09 and Polk County Mena Hospital Project #790-09084-11. The hearing will address any changes or impacts involving financing sources that have occurred since the first public hearing; accept oral and written comments regarding the project; and, discuss any potential impacts upon citizens that may have resulted during the course of the project. T041421
Jeremiah’s Lawn Care- Friendly service. Reasonable rates. (479)394-7599
- YARD SALE Yard Sale- Corner on Highway 71 and 270, Acorn. Friday April 16-18. Tools, collectibles, paintings, prints, jeans, and tops for women and men.
Has Your
Weekend Project Become A
5 Year Lawn Ornament?
Maybe It’s Time To List It
901 Hwy 71 N. Mena, Arkansas
Please Apply In Person.
Polk County Pulse Classifieds
Visitation Updates for Corrections Facilities Secretary of Corrections Solomon Graves announced today that beginning April 17, 2021, the Arkansas Department of Corrections will be expanding a MODIFIED IN-PERSON VISITATION pilot to include the following facilities: McPherson Unit North Central Unit Central Arkansas Community Correction Center East Central Arkansas Community Correction Center Omega Supervision Sanction Center Southwest Arkansas Community Correction Center The visitation pilot, which began in December, will continue at the following facilities: Benton Work Release Delta Regional Unit Northeast Arkansas Community Correction Center Northwest Arkansas Community Correction Center Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, in-person visits to inmates/residents will be made by pre-approved individuals only. Immediate, adult family members may submit requests for visitation appointments. Those wishing to visit the ten facilities now accepting requests should carefully review the new VISITATION RULES. After reviewing the new visitation rules, you may visit the website: https://telegov.egov.com/docrequest to complete a visitation appointment request form. Appointment requests can be made online from your mobile device or computer. All requests are pending review and approval by the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
My Pulse Hogspore News
Big Doings at Merle Meeter’s Farm on Saturday By Clet Litter from the Ozarks
April 15 is usually the final day to file income taxes for the past year. This year’s filing deadline is Monday, May 17. It’s about time us procrastinators had something to feel good about. The real reason for the new date is cause the guvernment counts on most folks to procrastinate and postpone filing till the end. That way it gives the Feds more time to find the refunds money. Maybe they can borrow it from the fellers at Nevada Al’s Friendly Paycheck Loan. The Hot Air Balloon Dog Fight competition lifts off this Saturday morning in the fallow forty acres of Merle Meeter’s farm. Contestants light their burners at 6 AM for the planned start at 7:00 AM.
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The sponsor is Swanson’s Suburban ProThe Barber Shop Think Tank was rempane Gas. Each wicker gondola holds iniscing about Butterbean McCurdy, four 40-pound tanks of donated who died in 2001. It was an early propane. Walter Surety from Life winter. Butterbean was driving Insurance of the Upper Ozarks There ain’t no rule alone in the fog moving fast will be there at 4 AM to help and taking chances, training that says a woman the wives enroll their idiot for the Indy 500, when he can’t participate balloon-loving husbands in come to a stopped school bus a generous standard of living picking up little children. He in the danger, cept continuation widow’s benefit swerved to miss those small the rule of for the ladies and their chilstudents, lost control, and dren. There ain’t no rule that rolled bout 8 times. common sense. says a woman can’t participate Since Butterbean was a Hogin the danger, cept the rule of comspore citizen, we hold an annual mon sense. memorial race in September to celerPunkin’s birthday is today. I didn’t let brate him and raise money for the Muleon til now, so you wouldn’t go out and buy her a berry County School Bus Maintenance Program. gift. I just give you the warning about Punkin since After the race, a humble part of the proceeds also folks favor her a lot better than me, and sometimes goes to the building fund for a statue of Butterbean she gets gifts from the readers. Mine is June 20, but in the town rectangle. After all these years, we’ve don’t even send a birthday wish cause I know you raised enough to build both of his legs. really won’t mean it. I got friends and family, so I’ll Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo. be all right. Don’t you worry about me. com.
Y R F FISH
k
---MENU---
Humor 21
Fish, Fries, Hush Puppies, Coleslaw, Beans & Drink
Carry Out Only Adults $10 Kids $8
STAY ALERT. STAY INFORMED. STAY SAFE. Some severe weather events are predictable, others may happen with little or no warning. Keep yourself and your family safe and healthy in any weather emergency by visiting the CDC Natural Disasters and Severe Weather information site.
www.cdc.gov/disasters/
Friday, April 23rd 4pm - 8pm
Knights of Columbus Hall 204 8th Street, Mena, AR Call Ahead To Order:
479-394-7427
Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve
515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M
22 Community
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
April 14, 2021
Mena DAR Re-Opens With March Meeting
Submitted by Cortez Copher Photos by: Kay Dye The James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR re-opened with the March 25 meeting. After a program presented by Henry Moreno from the Mena Art Gallery, the group heard reports from Dotty Kinnun, Brenda Cunningham, and Deonna Williams who attended the virtual ASDAR State Conference. Dotty Kinnun was presented the State ASDAR Lineage Award for working on the State Application Team, helping other Arkansas chapters with new member applications. It was also announced that the James K. Polk Chapter has been awarded a Certificate for Outstanding Service from ASDAR for having the most print coverage during Constitution Week. Chapter's U.S. Constitution activities and other volunteer work. The next meeting of the James K. Polk NSDAR Chapter will be Thursday,
April 15 at 1:30 p.m. in First Baptist Church of Mena. The program, "Life in the Colonies," will be presented by Joe Mannon. Ladies wishing to become a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution are welcomed to attend. For more informa-
tion or help with identifying your Revolutionary War Patriot, contact Dotty Kinnun at (thekinnuns@gmail.com). Top photo: James K. Polk Chapter with ASDAR Media Certificate of Outstanding Service.Back Row: Kathy Hagler, Dotty Kinnun, Carolyn Hanna, Deonna Williams, Cheryl Anglin, and Era Looney. Front Row: Ruby Hartsfield, Ann Garrett, Brenda Cunningham, Cortez Copher, JoAnn Moreno, and Linda Craig. Bottom right: James K. Polk Members who attended the ASDAR State Conference are Brenda Cunningham, Recording Secretary; Dotty Kinnun, Registrar and Honorary Regent; Deonna Williams, Historian. Bottom left: Dotty Kinnun with ASDAR Outstanding Lineage Research Certificate.
394-1938
TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHUAST • SHOCKS & STRUTS
Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm
1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Sports 23
April 14, 2021
Submitted by Mena Public Schools
She packs a Punch!
Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger placed first on Lake Ouachita in the Arkansas Youth Fishing Federation High School National Qualifying Tournament. This makes two wins in a row for Burger and Rose. They will be competing in the Trader Bills Championship April 25 on Lake Hamilton and the Bradford Cup AYFF Tournament on Greers Ferry the first weekend of May.
Photo courtesy of Richard Hexamer Sally Davison, age 12, traveled to Shreveport, Louisiana to compete in the USA boxing National Championships on March 30. Sally is the daughter of John and Zieka Davison and trains and competes out of the Defenders Boxing Club in Mena. Let’s all wish her well and good luck as she represents our state and community. Thanks everyone Coach Richard Hexamer said, “Sally came up just a little short against a girl with three times the ring experience and Sally hung in there with her.” Sally is ranked nationally at number two in her division.
Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC 1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953 Keith Aleshire
479-216-2055 New owners, James & Jodi West Experience the Difference: FREE Loaner Vehicles NO Job Too Small FREE Mobile Estimates
service@dbcollision.com
1000 B. Hwy 71 N Mena, AR 71953
Principal Broker
479-243-5341 kaleshire@aol.com
479-394-4200 hollyspringsrealestate.com
4183 --Western Arkansas Dreamland! The Ouachita National Forest and Cossatot River is only miles away down a country road! Check out the ATV trails & other area amenities! This property can be your home base getaway OR your forever home. Shop is perfect for storing your ATV's, boats & camper! Sitting on a beautiful hilltop with wooded views, 6.26 acres, quiet neighborhood just off Hwy 71 near Wickes, Arkansas,conveniently located between Mena and DeQueen. There's a large leveled Lot, w/electric, rural water, natural gas & septic system ready for your new home or cabin. Plus, a 16’x76’ 16’x76 MH 3bed/2 bath, w/metal roof &new flooring. 30x40 shop has solar panels & 20x30 & 14x60 overhangs & a 12’x16’ insulated room & full bath inside. Two carcarport. $145,000
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THE POLK COUNTY
April 14, 2021
Today’s Best Country - KENA 104.1
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Graduate Salutes Date:________________ Name of Graduate:___________________________________________ Parent/Guardian(s):__________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ School:____________________________________________________ Special Honors:______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Extracurricular Activities (Clubs, Athletics, Hobbies):_______________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Future Plans:_______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________
Drop off at 1168 Hwy 71 S, Mena, AR OR Email news@mypulsenews.com