Polk County Pulse April 20, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

April 20, 2022

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Candidate Sanders visits Mena on Freedom Tour

INSIDE:

places in Arkansas and have people turn out in overflow, Sarah Huckabee Sanders came to packed-out speak at the Ouachita Center on the crowds in most University of Arkansas Rich Mounof the cafés and tain (UARM) campus as a part of her diners we have Freedom Tour. been to. You get Sanders said the Freedom Tour, “It’s to really spend a way to for us to get all over the state time visiting of Arkansas, hitting all 75 counties, with people, visiting with people in communities hear their stobig and small. We’re talking about not just the vision for the state, but ries. It’s been frankly, how we are fighting for our another way to freedom, making sure we’re empow- Gubernatorial candidate Sarah Huckabee Sanders addresses a fall love with Arkansas again.” ering individuals, talking about how crowd at the Ouachita Center at UARM, April 13. is we will empower Arkansans, and (Trey Youngdahl/Pulse) Sanders one of the two what I will do as governor. reception has been pretty incredible “So far it has been amazing. The and very humbling to go into so many Ethan Nahté and Trey Youngdahl, contributing reporters

Mena Police Ribbon-Cutting

Page 4

Election Workers Needed

See SANDERS continued on page 2

Page 8

Polk County Growth and Advancement petitioning for alcohol

By Trey Youngdahl

After-Prom Committee

Page 21

Once again, a petition to change Polk County from a dry county, meaning a county that does not allow the sale of alcohol, to a wet county, which would allow such business, is being circulated. The campaign is being headed by the Polk County Growth and Advancement (PCGA) committee.

PCGA was founded in 2022 by Der-

ek Campbell and Jason Moore, after talks of such change started in 2021.

Campbell, who most notably owns The Ouachitas, formerly known as Ouachita Coffee Roasters, was a key player in the establishment of a temporary entertainment district in Polk County. He is co-chair of the group alongside Moore.

After being presented on several occasions by various groups, the com-

mittee is again pushing the petition for this upcoming voting season.

“The way the regulations are set up, currently you have to receive just a little more than 30% of registered voters within that county,” Campbell said.

“Polk County has over 20,000 people, so that lands us needing around 4,700 voter signatures.”

See ALCOHOL continued on page 10

2 News

April 20, 2022

SANDERS “I think that a continued from page 1 lot of people of

GOP candidates for Arkansas governor. The daughter of former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, Sanders has spent nearly her whole life involved in politics, serving as campaign manager for U.S. Sen. John Boozman and, most recently, as press secretary for Donald Trump for two-and-half years of his presidency.

Sanders was a teen during her father’s first term as Arkansas’s governor. She grew up around politics.

She said, “There’s nothing like going on your first date when your dad is the governor. Having your date pick you up at the Governor’s Mansion is not the easiest way to break into that scene. I was right at 14-years-old when my dad became governor. He was there almost 11 years. I was 24 when he left office. I spent a lot of time growing up there and getting to see the impact first-hand that a governor can have.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

ning for governor. I think education is probably one of the most importpeople over the ant things we can focus on. It is the past two years, foundation for everything else that frankly, have been we want to see happen in Arkanawakened to how sas, whether its economic developmuch influence ment, quality of life, workforce, or their state and lohealthcare. If we don’t have a good education, all those other things will cal and local leadhave difficulty thriving. So, that will ership has. It’s one be the place where I really want to of the reasons I’m “It was great to be in Mena at the Ouachita Center with so many supporters,” (Photo courtesy of SarahForGovernor campaign) lean into and aggressively focus on running, because Sanders said. purpose. Do your very best to live up as governor.”

I think we have Another focal point of Sanders’ the ability to really impact change and to whatever that is and everything else transform Arkansas for the better by should work out pretty well. So far, campaign is Arkansas’ state income being in leadership here at the state that has landed me here…getting to tax. Eight states, including the borderrun for governor of Arkansas—a true ing states of Tennessee and Texas, do level.”

Sanders has followed some of her privilege of a lifetime.” not impose a state income tax.

Since announcing her candidacy in father’s guidance. “My dad has kind of Sanders said, “I think one of the best January 2021, she has embarked on a always stuck to one piece of advice and things we can do is to stop taking away it’s served him well, and has served me tour visiting several small towns and the incentive to work harder by having pretty well, so far. That is, always be cities in Arkansas to speak to citizens a high-income tax, as part of what we true to yourself. Don’t try to be any- on a more intimate and personal level. do. I’d love to continue and begin to thing other than God created you to Most recently, she made stops in plac- phase out the state income tax here in be. He’s always said the He created es such as Nashville and De Queen be- Arkansas. We’re not going to be able to do it overnight. It’s going to take time. each of us for a special and unique fore her stop in Mena on April 13.

Sanders received a standing ovation It’s not going to be any one thing that as she entered the Ouachita Center on allows us to do it, but a collection of the UARM campus. After being intro- different things: technology savings, duced by Mena native and State Rep. stopping and cutting the exponential John Maddox, she spoke to the crowd, growth that we have in government, sharing her thoughts on American and passing those savings on to the values, her platform, and stories of her consumer, the taxpayer. I think it’s time serving Trump. important that we really get serious During her tenure as press secre- about tightening on our own belts so tary, Sanders interacted with many that we can do exactly that and phase politicians on all levels. In doing so, out the state income tax here.” she once again gained first-hand exAfter addressing the crowd, Sandperience on what she believes makes ers did a meet-and-greet for a line of things work. “I think one of the big- citizens that wrapped all around the gest takeaways, not just from that auditorium. experience, but from so many other “I hope people will take the oppormoments, is the fact that Washing- tunity to come out and see me and our ton is pretty broken. We can’t expect team on one of our stops, and that I a lot of meaningful things to come out have the chance to earn their vote. I of Washington right now. Our states take nothing for granted. I feel like I’m have the ability to really influence in a great position, but I want people things like education, like workforce to have the opportunity to meet me, development—things that can really ask me questions if they want, and rechange a state, but also change indi- ally earn their respect, earn their vote vidual lives in the state. and work together to change Arkan“That’s one of the reasons I’m run- sas. I think we can do that.”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 20, 2022

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The CALL new host of Talimena 13.1 Run & Relay

By Trey Youngdahl

Christian non-profit organization The CALL in Polk County will be hosting the Talimena 13.1 Run & Relay to raise funds in support of foster care.

The marathon will be held on April 30, at 8:30 a.m. starting at Janssen Park and down Maple before turning left on Mena Street and continuing up the Talimena Scenic Byway to the Lodge.

There will again be an individual category, a four-person relay, and a 13-person relay. To register, applicants can inquire at runreg.com or at talimenarunandrelay.com. Registration will start at 7:00 a.m. Runners will have four hours to complete the course. Pre-registration ends April 17.

Registration Prices: Half-marathon individual: $50 until April 17 $65 after April 18 Four-person relay (Package amount for all four team members): $175 until April 17 $200 after April 18 13-person relay (Package amount for all 13 team members): $300 until April 17 $350 after April 18 Please note, the relay team leader will apply for all team members.

Do not sign up under the individual category if you are a team member.

There will be three aid stations located approximately 3.2 miles apart.

Each mile is marked on the route for the 13-person Team. There will be energy snacks, water, and sports

drinks available. Local HAM operators and EMS staff will be on the course to assist with emergency and other needs. There will be snacks and refreshments at the finish line.

In previous years, the marathon was held by Polk County Developmental Center (PCDC) but has not been held since 2019. This race, formerly called the Rich Mountain Classic, was first run in 1986 and continued through 1990, using the Janssen Park to the Queen Wilhelmina Lodge race route.

In 1991, the Classic was renamed the Talimena Drive Half-Marathon.

The course was run from the lodge to near the state line and back.

In 2014, the event was re-named the Talimena 13.1 Run & Relay. Gov. Bill Clinton and Attorney General Steve Clark were past participants in the race.

The CALL has brought it back to life.

“This year was to get it started back in the public’s view,” The CALL program coordinator Renee Hendrix said. “Next year, we’re going to go big. All profits will stay in Polk County.”

Families recruited by The CALL make up over half of all foster families in the state. Since 2007, these families have cared for over 10,000 children, and created forever families for over 800 children. The CALL is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, funded by contributions from individual donors, churches, foundations and corporations. They provide their services to families and churches at no cost. This fundraiser is one of several they do throughout the year to provide their support.

“Come out and enjoy the scenery,” Hendrix said. “You’ll be supporting a great cause.”

News 3

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CORRECTIONS: In the April 13, 2022 Pulse article “Atwoods sign down and out,” it was stated that Area Wide Paving was “…100% reliable for making repairs to the sign,” copied directly from an official police report. It should have read “…100% liable… .

The article “VFW to honor Gorden” listed Don Martin’s rank as a 1st Sgt. according to information provided to the Pulse. It should have read retired U.S. Army Master Sgt. Donald G. Martin.

4 News

April 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Ribbon cutting and city council held at new police department

By Ethan Nahté

The regular Mena city council meeting was held in a special venue, Tuesday, April 12, as city employees and citizens helped dedicate the new Mena police station, now located at 403 Dequeen St. Members of the Mena police department, city council, and the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce stepped out for an official ribbon cutting before conducting business.

Mena Police Chief Tommy Stueart said, “I appreciate the opportunity of y’all meeting here and letting us show y’all what we’re certainly proud of. If it wasn’t for y’all, we’d still be in our little space. I thank each every one of you.”

Following the approval of the minutes for the regular council meeting on March 8 and the two special council meetings on March 15 and 17, the council moved on to the official reports. All were present with the exception of councilman Andy Brown.

Following was the approval of Part A for both the March 2022 disbursements and the March 2022 bank reconciliations for all accounts. Part B was for approved for the water and sewer department’s February 2022 financial statement.

The department head reports for Part C - Item 1 began with airport manager Fred Ogden, who stated that March fuel sales were up 10,182 gallons versus March 2021 at 5,800 gallons and 5,300 gallons in March 2020. He credited the sales of fuel to the USFS and their helicopters with the implementation of controlled burns in the surrounding area. Ogden said, “Business is still good, despite the fuel price increase, but they do say they are starting to see some supply chain issues.”

Ogden also announced the Precision Approach Path Indicator has finally been accepted by the FAA for runway nine, which will allow the airport to move forward and close grants on taxiway B. The airport is also attempting to improve communications with Memphis Center, forming committees related to the 2024 eclipse and preparing to start some crack seal pavement jobs where needed around the airport.

The Item 2 report from building official Bryan Ross was included in the council’s packet.

Item 3 was from fire chief Steve Egger reported eight incidents: one dumpster fire, one gas leak, two grass fires, one rubbish

my Stueart. He announced that the department answered 315 calls for service in March. They made 66 nondrug misdemeanor arrests, 13 non-drug felony arrests, four felony drug arrests, three misdemeanor drug arrests, issued 176 warnings Members of the Mena Police Department, City Council and the Mena/Polk and worked 17 County Chamber of Commerce look on as police chief Tommy Stueart prepares accidents. to cut the ribbon to the new police station.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse) Mayor Smith fire, two unauthorized control burns and stepped in for one animal rescue.

Item 8 to speak for street superintendent The fire department also conducted var- Aaron Rice. The department replaced one ious training, annual inspection of appara- large culvert that was eroded on Cherry tus and found they had some maintenance Street with two larger culverts to help hanissues. They are awaiting cost estimates for dle issues in the area. parts and repairs.

Multiple patches were made on city Egger also spoke with other fire depart- streets, as well as work on several ditchments who had experience with the 2017 es. They are also preparing for the spring solar eclipse to help the Mena fire depart- clean-up and expecting a heavy load. They ment with the eclipse of 2024. will be utilizing volunteers to help with the Item 4 was presented by MRHS CFO Paul clean-up.

Ervin. March 2022 saw 120 hospital admisMowing season is also upon us and the sions, they performed 121 surgical cases, tractor is ready to go. They have been awaitdelivered 14 babies, performed 3,023 out- ing a new tractor for seven months now. patient procedures, and saw 2,801 people in Item 9 was presented by water supertheir clinics. intendent James Looney. He said he was Item 5 and 6 were the parks and recre- not sure why water loss was up over 25% ation director Phillip Lance and park super- for March compared to the past. He also intendent Wes Kent. Neither were present, mentioned various services the department but Mayor Seth Smith announced that the worked on. spring soccer season was ending the third Committee reports were Item A for the weekend of April.

A&P Commission. Terri Neugent reported The baseball and softball season were that tax income from restaurants in Febboth beginning April 18. ruary amounted to $14,414, a significant Work was being completed on all fields, decrease from the previous month, but an including the replacement of the old score- increase from the previous year. boards. Spreading gravel and numbering February A&P tax revenues for lodgparking areas is almost completed, as well. ing was down from the previous month at The extension of field 5 has been inter- $2,289, as well as a decrease from the prerupted due to wet weather. vious year.

Regular park maintenance of mowing, The total A&P tax for February was weeding, and spraying has begun. $4,000 less than January, which Neugent Preparing the swimming pool will begin said was pretty typical. toward the end of April. Applications are Three new A&P business applications available for lifeguards. were received.

Working on flower beds around the city The A&P office has been relocated back has also begun. to the train depot.

Item 7 was presented by police chief TomNeugent said the organization of the 2022

Lum & Abner Festival is in full gear and will be held June 3-4.

The A&P Fourth of July fireworks will be held July 3.

The commission approved the recommendation of the city council for the reappointment of Scott Vacca to another fouryear term, expiring April 30, 2026.

The commission approved two advertising funding request for the year 2022.

There next meeting will be 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3.

Item B was the Mena Depot Commission. A packet was provided.

There was no old business.

New Business, Item A began with considering bids for the 2022 street hot-mix overlay program. Mayor Smith referenced a letter in the newspaper (see Pulse issue March 23, 2022) by Mary Meier regarding the asphalt project. Smith said, “This is the third time we have advertised, and we have not received one single bid…almost $1,700 of advertising and not one inch of asphalt laid for the fourth year in a row. If you have any ideas, I’m open.”

Item B was to consider a resolution authorizing a conditional use permit to operate a vacation rental property at 2001 Hidden Valley Road. It passed unanimously, becoming Resolution 1430.

Item C was to consider a resolution authorizing a conditional use permit to operate a nightly rental property at 212 11th Street. It passed unanimously, becoming Resolution 1431.

Item D was to consider a resolution to create the May 20, 2022, Mena Street and Martin Avenue temporary entertainment district; and for other purposes. This was the only item to cause a split, although there was no discussion on the matter. Council members James Earl Turner, Larry Stewart, and Mary Alice Head voted “Yea” and Terri Neugent and Dwight Douglas voted “Nay,” requiring the mayor to break the 3-2 vote.

Smith voted “Yea” and Resolution 1432 passed.

Item E was an ordinance accepting a lotsplit subdivision located at 300 South Polk Street, city of Mena, Polk County, Arkansas for Rainmaker Enterpriser Holdings, LLC. It passed unanimously, becoming Ordinance 2354-22.

Item F was the aforementioned reappointment of Scott Vacca, which passed unanimously.

The meeting was then adjourned.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

April 20, 2022

From the

State Senate

The month of April is Nament of Human Services retional Child Abuse Prevention lating to the alleged abuse or Month. It is a time to raise neglect of a child in order to awareness and inspire collecensure a consistent and comtive action so that every child prehensive approach to procan lead their best life. viding services to a child and In the 2021 Regular Sesthe family of a child who is sion, the General Assembly John Maddox the victim of alleged abuse or passed Act 920 which created neglect. the Blue Ribbon Task Force to In addition, the General End Child Abuse. Child Abuse Hotline Assembly passed Act 556 which makes operators in Arkansas receive thou- all full-time and part-time employees sands of calls every year. In 2020, more of public and private schools mandated than 5,500 cases were investigated by reporters of child abuse. authorities.

We all can help to prevent abuse by The task force is charged with review- supporting families in our communiing child abuse data in the state and the ties. Parents who have support from state’s options for adopting or revising family, friends, and neighbors are policies, procedures, programs, and more likely to provide safe and healthy services to assist in identifying and homes for their children. eliminating child abuse. The task force You can also help prevent further will file a final report with the House abuse by reporting suspected maltreatCommittee on Aging, Children and ment. If you see something that conYouth, Legislative and Military Affairs cerns you or just doesn’t look right, we and the Senate Interim Committee on encourage you to say something!

Children and Youth.

If you need to report child maltreatThe General Assembly also passed ment, it’s easy. Just call the Arkansas Act 975 which directs the Children Ad- Child Abuse Hotline at 1-844-SAVEvocacy Centers of Arkansas to review A-CHILD. and track reporting from the Depart-

At their first meeting schedwhich are appropriate and uled after Easter, lawmakers safe when the person with will hear an update on new disabilities is sleeping. rules and new funding that Another change affects the will eliminate a waiting list for relatives of people with deservices for people with develvelopmental disabilities. Curopmental disabilities. rently, family members who Officials of the Division of are not legal guardians can Developmental Disabilities Larry Teague be paid as direct care staff, Services are scheduled to presas long as they meet certain ent an update on Medicaid waiver requirements. The Division will disservices. They will report to legislacuss with legislators the possibility tors on new waiver slots that over the of adding legal guardians and any next three years will be sufficient to “legally responsible person” as care add 3,204 clients who have been on providers. the state waiting list.

Another change is in response to The waivers allow clients to remain workforce shortages caused in part in their homes, rather than live in an by the Covid-19 pandemic. It would institution. Eligible clients have been increase from four to eight the cadiagnosed with autism, cerebral pacity of group homes. palsy, seizure disorder or epilepsy, The changes in rules and waivDown syndrome and Spina bifida. er programs is on the agenda of the Also on the eligibility list are people House Children and Youth Permadiagnosed before the age of 22 with a nent Subcommittee of the Aging, significant intellectual limitation acChildren and Youth, Legislative and companied by deficits in their adapMilitary Affairs Committee, which is tive behavior. scheduled to meet on April 18.

Currently, 5,400 children and Forestry Caucus adults receive Supportive Living serA majority of legislators have vices, which brings support staff to joined the newly created Foresttheir homes and communities. ry Caucus, which will work to pass The program is called the Comlegislation to expand forestry and munity and Employment Supports promote economic development.

(CES) waiver. It costs about $300 The impetus came from legislators million a year, with the federal govrepresenting south Arkansas, the ernment paying 71.62 percent and dominant timber-growing area of state government paying 28.38 perthe state. cent.

In the 2021 session the legislature Division officials estimate that afcreated the Center for Forest Busiter three years, when all the new slots ness at the University of Arkansas are filled, the annual cost of the proat Monticello, within its College of gram will be $442 million.

Forestry, Agriculture, and Natural During the 2022 fiscal session Resources. Also, the legislature put earlier this year, legislators voted to $841,000 for the center in the state dedicate an additional $37.6 million budget for Fiscal Year 2023, which for the CES waiver program, with the begins on July 1. intention of eliminating the current In related news, the state Agriculwaiting list for services. ture Department and the university Other changes that Division ofat Monticello are offering scholarficials will discuss with legislators ships of $4,000 per semester to atinclude using more monitoring systract students to the campus’s foresttems, such as alarms and sensors, ry programs.

State House of Representatives

Contact Your Legislators!

John Maddox

John.Maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060

Larry Teague

Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903 Nashville, AR 71852 870-845-5303

John Boozman

1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553

Bruce Westerman 101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887

From the

6 Obituaries

April 20, 2022

Ollie Frances Parsons

Mrs. Ollie Frances Parsons, age 87, passed away T h u r s d a y, April 14, 2022, in Mena, Arkansas.

She was born October 10, 1934, in Gurdon, Arkansas, to the late Warner L. Woodell and Trudie Helms.

Mrs. Parsons was a teacher by profession and adored her career. She loved to garden and was said to have a very green thumb, she especially loved to give away her produce to her friends and family. Ollie is preceded in death by her parents, Warner L. Woodell and Trudie Helms; her loving husband Ivey William Parsons; brothers, Alex Amos Woodell and Warner Ray Woodell; sister, Shirley Jean Coday; beloved son, Bobby Ray Daugherty Jr.; beloved daughter, Lisa Lynn Holliday; and by her grandson, Ezekiel Daugherty.

She is survived by her son, William Lee Nimith Parsons and wife Alisha May Parsons; stepson, Billy La’roure; daughter, Sandra K. Storar; grandchildren, Roger Shannon Storar, April P. Manley, Rocky Orion Daugherty, Donald Ray Daugherty, Tiffany L. Daugherty, Shane James, Cody James, William Sullivan Parsons, Dravin Parsons, and Donavin Pryor; great-grandchildren, Abigail Storar, Maddison Manley, Adeline Manley, Charlotte Manley, Darcie Daugherty, Neveah Daugherty, Leeland Fermandez, Kyzar Daugherty, Dominique Daugherty, Erica Daugherty, and Nathan Daugherty; as well as a host of other family and friends, too numerous to mention.

Graveside services for Mrs. Parsons will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 18, 2022, at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Edna Irene Pettigrew

Edna Irene Pettigrew, age 77, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, April 16, 2022, at the home of her friends and caregivers, Lisa and Jim Bradley in Pencil Bluff, Arkansas. She was born on Sunday, January 21, 1945, to Benjamin Stricklin and Nettie (Yandell) Stricklin in Hatfield, Arkansas.

Edna was a kind and loving woman. She was an elementary teacher who spent the majority of her career caring for and teaching the students of Wickes Elementary. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and enjoyed playing cards, reading, putting puzzles together, drinking Dr. Pepper, and spending every chance she had with her grandchildren. Edna was a talented artist. She was born in Hatfield and grew up on Six Mile Creek with some of the county’s finest women. Her bond with the Stricklin and Miller women made her strong and taught her to put others ahead of herself. Edna and Carroll raised four beautiful, amazing, talented, and humble Godly children of whom she was very proud and who also worked together to write this obituary. Edna was a loving wife, mother, grandmother,

daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.

She is preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Cary Stricklin, Calvin Stricklin, Omen Stricklin, and David Stricklin; and two sisters, Bonnie Richardson and Claudia Critser; and close family friends, Bob and Sue Piearcy.

Edna is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Carroll Pettigrew; one son, Chad Pettigrew of Mena, Arkansas; three daughters and sonsin-law, Benji Ferguson and husband Donnie of Mena, Arkansas, Channa Lay and husband Rodney of Mena, Arkansas, and Megan Parker and husband Jason of Magnet Cove, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Emily Smith and husband Kyle, Dustyn Battaglia and husband Thomas, Madison Lowe and husband Loren, R.J. Parker and wife Bayley, Lane Ferguson and wife Harley, Lauren Lay and Aaron Lay; three great-grandchildren, River Smith, Josie Parker, and Theodore Battaglia; two sisters, Georgia Marchand and Jean Snellgrove; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be Friday, April 22, 2022, from 6-8 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas. Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, April 24, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. at the Daniel Cemetery Chapel in Wickes, Arkansas with Brother Mark Lyle and Brother Dale Dailey officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Maguire Lane Living (Lisa Bradley, 37 Maguire Lane, Pencil Bluff, AR 71965) or Elite Hospice Promise Foundation (602 Dequeen Street, Mena, AR 71953).

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Arkansas Division of Correction inmate dead of apparent suicide

Submitted by Arkansas Department of Corrections On Monday, April 11, 2022, staff at the Grimes Unit observed inmate Tony Foster, No. 551333, hanging in a locked single-man cell. Inmate Foster was transported to a Little Rock hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 12:07 p.m. on Tuesday, April 12, 2022.

Thea Arkansas State Police was notified and is conducting an investigation into the death. The Department of Corrections will be conducting an internal investigation into the death.

Inmate Foster was a 31-year-old white male serving a 25-year sentence out of Polk County for possession with the purpose to deliver methamphetamine or cocaine.

A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.

~Maya Angelou

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Your Pulse!

Letter to the Editor When the devastating Covid-19 pandemic first started, it was not long before I noticed how unprepared some were for anything that disrupted their trips to the store to replenish food and various staples. Not sure I will ever understand why toilet paper was the first thing to be hoarded. Without ample food, the need to wipe soon becomes a moot point.

It was not long after paper shortages that meats and canned goods soon became hard to find as well. Processors were sick.

Drivers and store workers were sick. Supply chains became disrupted and deliveries sporadic. Both of our local grocery stores had many empty shelves. Think that cannot happen here. Think again. It just did.

We adjusted and after almost 2 years some semblance of normal has returned to our food security. As I watch the heartbreaking acts of war being set upon the citizens of Ukraine and the disease that ravaged our whole world, I wonder what we have learned. I ask how long most people can exist without resupply from the local store in a prolonged shortage due to disease, supply chain disruption due to strikes or high fuel prices, overregulation by government, swine flu, avian flu, mad cow disease, or wars?

This question is no longer one that conjures up thoughts of doomsday preppers but rather one that is relative to the challenges we can now face daily.

Having some food on hand that will remain edible and nutritious over the long term is not a bad idea. Call it food insurance or being ready for a rainy day. There are many online sellers of freeze-dried or dehydrated foods that remain stable over time.

The Ready Store, Ready Made Resources, and Emergency Essentials to name a few.

The longest shelf-life items are the freezedried variety packed in nitrogen purged lined #10 metal cans. Sam’s Club carries sealed plastic buckets of freeze-dried quality foods that store long term. I have even seen a few freeze-dried items in our local Walmart. Our forefathers were self-reliant to a big degree.

Not so much now.

The idea of food insurance is not the thought of a fringe group. Most people have car insurance, home insurance, life insurance, or savings accounts. Not because they expect bad things to happen but rather to have some cushion if they do. Some may liken this to the fable of the ant and the grasshopper.

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April 20, 2022

I urge you to look at current events. Ask yourself if you have ever seen anything before like we are living through now. Ask how long you can feed your family if the local store cannot fill your needs. Growing a garden takes time. Canning skills are fast becoming a lost art. Harvesting wildlife to feed your family will not last long if the whole country does it. There are more folks to feed than there are animals to hunt.

I am not trying to panic anyone, but rather to raise awareness and give you something to think about. If you think our government is the answer, please rethink that. They have managed to get us so deep in debt that we may never see daylight. They have regulated everything to the extreme. Their policies seem to put the needs of others before those of our own citizens. Do some research and make up your own mind what is best for you and yours but do something and do not get caught unprepared. Even our government has food in reserve and a seed bank in the event we mess up our food supply with GMO tinkering. Think ahead or have hindsight. Up to you. To answer the obvious question, yes, I have something for a rainy day. I am an ant, not a grasshopper.

Thank you for allowing me a forum to share my thoughts.

Kindest regards, Ronald Goss, Mena, U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran, Retired Virginia Beach Police Department Letter to the Editor In the April 13 edition of the Pulse was a letter from Ms. Laible complaining that President Biden was not doing enough to help Ukraine defend itself from the Russian invasion.

Ms. Laible was advocating that the US should put boots on the ground and planes in the air to help Ukraine defend itself.

Ms. Laible goes on to say that it is “baloney about Vladimir Putin threatening nuclear war.”

The US has approximately 2,000 nuclear warheads ready for immediate launch. Russia has about the same number also ready for launch.

Experts have estimated that a nuclear exchange between Russia and the US would result in between 100 million and 150 million dead in the US, and that does not include the hundreds of thousands who would die

shortly thereafter due to lack of medical care, radiation sickness, starvation, etc.

Large parts of the earth would become uninhabitable for decades to come, and the radioactive fallout from the thousands of warheads would spread around the world and wipe out civilization as we know it.

One may claim that Putin does not want to commit suicide, and he would not actually use nuclear weapons. The Director of the CIA is not so convinced, nor are others who know much about Putin and his thinking.

There are reports that Putin has been treated for cancer, and for all any of us know he may be dying and have little consideration for what happens to planet Earth after he is gone.

Personally, I don’t want to tempt fate and give Putin reasons to feel that he is backed into a corner and has nothing to lose by going nuclear.

No one wins in a nuclear war; the US does not win; Russia does not win; the world does not win, and there is certainly nothing to gain for Ukraine by destroying the world in order to save the freedom of the Ukrainian people.

Robert Tomlinson, Mena Letter to the Editor In response to the letter from Kerry and Wendy Chiapparo in April 13’s Pulse regarding the sale of alcohol in Polk County, I must respectfully disagree with their sentiments.

Their comment, “Yes, there may be some financial gain, but the ledger has two sides; what about the costs? Cost such as more police presence, jail space, counselors, court costs, accidents, medical expenses, property damage, littering, etc.” was the first to get my attention.

The Chiapparos say they have lived in Polk County for more than 27 years. Have they read the police blotters? Have they sat in a Polk County courtroom during arraignments or trials? Have they driven down Mena and Polk County roads and seen the trash and junky properties? Have they been in the schools and seen the children who don’t have enough to eat or proper clothing?

People are responsible for their actions, period.

It doesn’t take alcohol for Polk County to have the problems of public intoxication, domestic violence, theft, littering, etc. Everyone knows it happens and it does not require the local sale of alcohol. Those problems are related to broken and/or bored people, not what is sold at Walmart or the nearest convenience store. Being a “dry” county ensures nothing.

Their comment that we should just go

ahead and “vote in gambling casinos, prostitution, opium dens… it’s all ‘fun and entertaining’ until someone you love is destroyed by it” was incredible hyperbole. The wet county push is not about “entertainment” for most people who support it, though many people enjoy having a drink (or a few) while hanging out with friends or during other forms of entertainment.

For my husband and I, it’s about revenue for the area and convenience for us.

Allowing the sale of alcohol does not mean bars on every corner or every store selling liquor. The city and county can regulate the locations by the approval or disapproval of licenses, so locations will be managed.

Thankfully, our county has excellent police and sheriff departments to apprehend law breakers and I do not see their standards decreasing. Sadly, the county is lacking in jail space, so people are released to offend again.

Mena city and Polk County leaders have been working to enlarge our jail and increase our law enforcement staffs. We already have counselors to talk to people in specific situations and our ER staff at the hospital work hard caring for people injured in all situations. Polk County is dry, but we still have all the problems mentioned in the Chiapparo’s letter.

What keeps people out of trouble is having something to do. Mena is severely lacking in that area, despite the wonderful daytime outdoor activities available. Many people who live here cannot physically deal with the outdoor climate, regardless of the season.

They get bored and start getting into trouble in numerous ways.

Having something positive for children, teens, and adults to do year-round, day and evening, would go a long way toward relieving some of these issues. A community center, with a year-round indoor pool, a gymnasium, and a room for community game nights, etc., would be something that people could do that’s positive for them and would provide revenue for the city via usage fees and sponsorships. And alcohol sales could help bring such a place to life.

Polk county and Mena funds are stretched.

Currently, Polk County loses a lot of revenue to other Arkansas counties and to Oklahoma; revenue that could benefit this county, its residents, and visitors. Alcohol revenues could help. And for those who simply enjoy drinking, supporting your local “revenuer” is better than supporting someone else’s.

Thank you, Mary Meier,

8 Community Polk County Election workers needed Submitted by Terri Harrison

The Polk County Election Commission is looking for community-minded individuals that would be willing to serve as election workers for both early voting and Election Day. Election workers are required to attend training prior to working. If this is something you are interested in, please contact the County Clerk’s Office for more information and an application.

Please share so we can reach as many people as possible.

Jocelyn Parsons earns role in SAU Theatre production of “Guys and Dolls” MAGNOLIA, AR (04/18/2022)Jocelyn Parsons will play the role of Mimi and is a part of the ensemble in the upcoming SAU Theatre and MHS Theatre production of the musical “Guys and Dolls” on April 21-24.

Parsons is a sophomore Musical Theatre major from Mena, Arkansas.

“Guys and Dolls” is an oddball romantic comedy. Gambler, Nathan Detroit, tries to find the cash to set up the biggest craps game in town while the authorities breathe down his neck; meanwhile, his girlfriend and nightclub performer, Adelaide, laments that they’ve been engaged for fourteen years.

Nathan turns to fellow gambler Sky Masterson, for the dough, and Sky ends up chasing the straightlaced missionary, Sarah Brown, as

April 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Around Town The Owens Chapel Cemetery Spring Cleanup week will be May 1st through the 7th. Decoration day will be May 8. The Annual Public Meeting will be the first Sunday of December at 2 p.m. at the cemetery. Public welcome.

CMA Yard Sale & Bake Sale, Old Papa’s Restaurant, April 23, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. All proceeds go to Run for the Son event for the Home Front Warriors.

Cherry Hill cemetery clean up day will be Saturday, April 23, with Decoration Day being Sunday, May 1st. A short business meeting will be held at the visitor center at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 1st.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has re-opened. All meals and activities have reverted to their original schedules. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 385-2373.

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 FFA will be holding their first Annual Dinner and Auction, April 30. Members are raffling a handmade FFA quilt, made by Tiny Campbell of Hatfield. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at The Crossing Church, 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn. For information call (479) 234-8366 or (479) 216-3786.

Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room behind Janssen Ave. Florist, 800 Janssen Ave. Starting at 7 - 10 p.m. Come “PickN-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome.

a result. Guys and Dolls take us from the heart of Times Square to the cafes of Havana, Cuba, and even into the sewers of New York City, but eventually, everyone ends up right where they belong.

For the first time in many years, MHS Theatre and SAU Theatre are coming together to bring you this joint production, performed at the new Magnolia Performing Arts Center at the MHS campus.

The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4pm - 6pm, located at Fair Grounds Road.

For more information, call (479) 437-4018.

Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need.

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center is putting together a bean bag baseball team and celebrating our seniors birthdays every 3rd Tuesday of the month. Contact Trena Hodge with questions (479) 394-5459.

Board Camp Baptist Church will distribute food on Thursday, April 21, 9 a.m. - noon.

Board Camp Baptist Church is located at 107 Polk 63, at the corner of Hwy. 8 East and Polk 63, approximately 9 miles east of Mena.

American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows.

Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m.

Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast every Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Mena, 8 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend.

Fourche Mountains May Day First picnic sing-a-long and Maypole. Everyone is welcome to the family-friendly event brought to you by the Ouachita Collaborative Cultivators, Sunday, May 1, noon-3 p.m. at McMillan Park in Mena. There will be a potluck picnic and free catered dish. Bring a dish if you’d like. We will wrap a Maypole. Bring

“Guys and Dolls” will have three evening performances at the MPAC at 7:30 p.m. starting April 21, with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, April 24.

To purchase tickets, please click http s : / / w w w. s h ow t i x 4 u . c om / event-details/63061.

Learn more about the Southern Arkansas University Theatre department at web.SAUmag.edu/ theatre.

an instrument and folk song lyrics to pass around for those who want to join in.

The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 394-1565 or polkarhousing. com Nimble Thimbles Quilt Guild will meet Monday, April 25, 1 - 4 p.m. We will receive the pattern for the third block in our mystery row quilt. Bring fabric, sewing machine, rotary cutter and cutting mat. Bring show and tell or work on another project if you would like to.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8 p.m.

Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call 479-243-0297.

GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10 a.m. - noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Ouachita Little Theatre will hold its annual membership meeting May 11, 5 p.m. at the OLT. The meeting is for all members. In addition to reports, there will be an election of new officers and a vote on changes in the OLT constitution. Please note, this is a new meeting date.

It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call (479) 243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 20, 2022

HSO appreciates volunteers Submitted by Cheryl Murphy

April is National Volunteer Month, and on April 4, Humane Society of the Ouachitas (HSO) hosted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at Concord Church in Ink. It was a great time of sharing a pot-luck lunch, visiting, playing a fun HSO trivia game, and sharing honors of recognition for jobs well done.

While all volunteers are deeply appreciated and HSO could not operate without the aid of its wonderful volunteer staff, certain people do stand out for their commitment to helping the shelter animals, especially long-term.

One such recognition went to Tina Ball, HSO’s Volunteer Shelter Director and member of the Board of Directors.

Tina started volunteering with HSO in 2006 and was recognized for 15 years of love and commitment for the many animals which are rescued and find homes through the shelter. Board

Easter Sunday was something to see. There were so many ladies’ hats with live flowers and fresh arrangements in the church that Preacher had to flip on the air conditioning to get rid of the humidity. That’s why there was an hour plea at the end of the sermon for money to pay for running the A/C. Mumford Pickens was present in the first pew upfront by the aisle.

Preacher give him the look he gives backsliders and stale communion crackers, but he welcomed him to the congregation, “It’s good to see you here this morning, Brother Pickens. It’s been awhile; wasn’t it Christmas? The entire flock embraces you. We’ve prayed and hoped that we’d take note of you more often, so that we might catch you later someday in heaven. Seems like shaky ground you’re walking on.”

practices and standards firmly in place in its operations.

Tina applied for, and the shelter received, a number of large corporate grants over the years. Some of these grants helped low-income pet owners with costs of spay-neuter, vaccination and pet medical services, as well as

member JJ Jones and secretary Cheryl Murphy presented the recognition to Tina in a form of a “thank you” plaque.

HSO President of the Board, Neal Fosdick, commended Tina for her dedication.

Due to many of Tina’s efforts in the role of Shelter D i re c tor, the shelter, which started out in 1978 as a humble grassroots effort to Tina Ball poses with her plaque, along with (l-r) JJ Jones, Cheryl r e s c u e Murphy and Neal Fosdick.

(Photo courtesy of HSO) h om e l e s s pets in Polk County, has now grown in its 43 years of existence to a very pro- some for funding special projects and fessional organization, with industry much-needed upgrades and repairs to

Hogspore News:

Squalor in the Holler starts today

Course, the topic was about death and resurrection. It was a rerun from last year, but most folks probably needed a reminder.

Squalor in the Holler begins today in Winslow’s Holler. It runs for two weeks without garbage pickup service. Don’t try to call the Winslow Sanitation Department to complain, since Jake, the One Can Man, has gone on his annual two-week fishing trip. Don’t call the Winslow Chamber of Commerce, cause there ain’t no Chamber of Commerce.

You can call me, but I’m only gonna laugh and do my best impression of “I feel your pain.”

The town of Bigg is in Pie Bliss County, north of Muleberry Coun-

ty. The Bigg Boys, the Alexander Bigg High football team, are long time rivals with the Hogspore Rooters. It’s always a sold-out crowd for the Bigg game.

The school was named after Alexander Bigg, who owned Bigg’s Doughnut Shoppe. It’s still there, but now it’s just an outside walk-up counter. That’s why the name was changed to Bigg’s Doughnut Shop.

They dropped the pe, cause there weren’t no restrooms.

Writer Widow Fenster has an announcement, “Suitable speech has finally hit the poetry community. It’s been hard on the bards. The word “Tis” is being replaced by “It’s.” It’s poetically correct.”

News 9 the existing 43+ year-old shelter building. The Cat Habitat building was added in 2017.

Tina is also credited for helping start the shelter pet transport program, which transports local pets to other states to find adoption homes. In 2021, 761 pets were given shelter and found homes through HSO. These efforts help take some of the burden off the local community, in trying to find good homes for pets. When more homeless pets find good homes, the problems of rabies, pet overpopulation, and public safety due to stray animals, is of less concern, benefiting the community.

HSO would not be the valuable organization it is today without the dedication of local supporters and businesses, from those who contribute regularly to fund everyday shelter expenses, to those who contribute much needed goods and services at a discount, such as signs, custom cabinets, sinks, appliances, and a place for the group to meet. All of these good things happen for the good of helping animals.

In a related article on Archeology in Old Time Stuff Monthly, a cave in the Nantucket area has revealed the earliest known limerick to be discovered. Here is the scientific depiction of the rhymey caveman drawings found on the cavern walls: Ugh x 8, Ugh x 8, Ugh x 5, Ugh x 5, & Ugh x 8. The poem’s possible meaning was analyzed by literary scholars and game show hosts. Their conclusion was it meant, “Ugh.” Mumford Pickens says, “It takes one minute to count to sixty if you live In Mississippi and have a high school diploma. I’m not worried over offending any high school graduates from MS. They don’t learn to read until college.”

Contact at Bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you wanna.

10 News

April 20, 2022

ALCOHOL continued from page 1 To qualify to sign the petitions, you must be registered to vote, and have voted in the last four years. Petitions are available at The Ouachitas, Little Italy, The Market, Papa Poblano’s, Northside Citgo, Scotty’s, American Artisans and Big Fork Mall.

“What this is really about is being able to retain the tax revenue that is lost to the surrounding counties and states due to Polk County being dry,” Campbell said. “Once Polk County is a wet county, local businesses will be able to operate a little bit easier and save money due to the regulations that you have to abide by to have alcohol in our establishments, but the community would then have the option to stay within the county and travel a lesser distance in order to purchase the drinks that they are already consuming in their home.”

Some citizens are concerned that the county will be affected negatively by the change. Drunk driving, underage drinking, rising crime rates and general moral degradation of our area are all proposed issues regarding Polk County becoming wet. Don ‘Cloud’ Davis, sitting president of political activist group We The People TEA Party, shared his opinion on the subject.

“I chose to live in Polk County because of what it is and what it isn’t. If I wanted to live in a wet county, I’d move to Hot Springs or Texarkana. I value the fact that Polk County is dry, and I choose to live here in part because of that,” Cloud said. “There are huge advantages to being a dry county—and that is that we don’t deal with the ramifications that alcohol brings. Personal indulgence is fine, that doesn’t affect me until someone crosses over the yellow line at night and kills somebody.”

Statistics and data website Infotrac-

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er.com states that every 50 minutes in America someone dies from an alcohol-related car crash. DUI-related crashes account for 28% of all deaths in America each year. Alcohol-impaired driving costs the U.S. $44 billion per year in damages and medical fees.

They also propose that one study showed in Kentucky 39,000 alcohol-related deaths occurred from residents driving far from home to get liquor because they lived in dry communities. Other studies support the idea that if people have to drive further from home to drink, there is a much higher chance of them getting into an alcohol-related car crash.

In wet counties, residents have much shorter distances to drive, thus less opportunity of a car crash while intoxicated.

Crime rates fluctuate in conjunction to whether or not a county is wet or dry. According to Jonesboro news outlet KAIT8.com (per 1,000 people), “When Marion County (north Arkansas) went wet back in 2006, the crime rate was 2.58. Two years after it rose to 4.46. After the fourth year the crime rate lowered.”

“Not all communities that prohibit the sale of liquor have high crime rates and higher arrests. In some cases, the driving arrests decrease, and in others, they stay the same. It depends on the area, the resident population and other factors unrelated to alcohol,” Infotracer states. “Some areas of the country do experience a decrease in crime and arrests going dry, but because of all the variables, statistics do not support the connection as an overall fact nationwide.”

In 2016, Little River County in southwest Arkansas changed from dry to wet, passing by nearly 1,000 votes.

This came after a study was done by the University of Arkansas, where they found that if Little River County

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse had been a wet county the year before in 2015, residents would have spent $1,284,952 in beer purchases and $1,070,374 in liquor and wine sales in the county. The total packaged alcohol sales would have amounted to an estimated $2,355,326. In 2015, those retail sales of alcohol would have generated an additional 1.9% in sales tax revenues for Little River County or $52,995. Total city sales taxes collected from the sales of retail liquor in Little River County would have amounted to $47,107.

Property taxes on new construction of package liquor stores also generate ongoing revenue streams of $4,456, split among cities, the county, and school districts. This economic activity in Little River County in 2015 would have been associated with a total of 11.5 jobs across all industries with a labor income of $325,112.

In addition to ongoing economic impact, if one new liquor store were constructed, a one-time economic output of $554,331 would be generated and a total of 4.3 jobs would be created across all industries in Little River County.

“Based on past data, we’ve seen no uptick in crime or alcohol-related incidents, or anything related to the matter,” Little River County Judge Mike Cranford said. “It’s been relatively flat, if not gone down some.”

Judge Cranford shared that there wasn’t a single negative impact on Little River as a result of the county going wet.

The earliest the petition can be turned in is July 11, 2022. If the petition gathers enough signatures, the initiative will be on the General Election ballot. The General Election is November 8, while early voting begins October 24. This is not to be confused with the Preferential Primary Election on May 24, with early voting beginning May 9.

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 20, 2022

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April 20, 2022

Earn More With FREE Kasasa Cash Back Checking Also, grow your savings balance faster by automatically transferring your Kasasa rewards into a Kasasa Saver account.

In the Business of YOU. Member FDIC | www.ffb1.com | @FFBank1 600 HWY 71 S | Mena, AR | 479-394-3552

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 20, 2022

Volunteers help Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests care for land and people

Arkansas Wildlife Federation members assist the USFS and other organizations, installing a gate to protect newly seeded fields at Bearcat Hollow.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – April 18, 2022 – As the nation celebrates Volunteer Week from April 17-23, the Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests officials are releasing information on the value of their service to Arkansas and Oklahoma.

In 2021, on the 1.8 million-acre Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas and Oklahoma, 382 volunteers provided more than 33,900 hours of service for an appraised value of $968,000. On 1.2 million-acre Ozark-St. Francis National Forest, 140 volunteers provided more than 4,900 hours of service appraised at $140,000.

Since the Forest Service began tracking volunteerism nearly 50 years ago, 3.1 million private citizens have volunteered.

Volunteers and service participants help the Forest Service care for the land and serve people, acquire work experience, benefit from training opportunities, and derive personal satisfaction.

News 13

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 20, 2022

On Monday, April 11, members of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA) brought gifts for the veterans to thank them for their service and help them get into the spirit of (l-r) Cindi Hernandez, Ethel Glenn and Deb Carmembers of the Disabled American Veterans the Easter Season. ter, Auxiliary, Unit 46 of Mena, Arkansas, and Jim Mason one of the Veterans.

(Submitted photo)

THE POLK COUNTY

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Celebrating a Buffalo National River milestone Submitted by Sen. John Boozman

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Buffalo National River’s designation as our country’s first national river. Enjoying wildlife and the outdoors is a way of life for residents of The Natural State and the Buffalo National River has helped countless Arkansans do just that. As we commemorate National Park Week, we celebrate this milestone and all of Arkansas’ national treasures.

Congress formally afforded the Buffalo River federal protection on March 1, 1972, to preserve its 135 miles of free-flowing river and conserve natural, scenic and scientific features like the deep valleys, towering bluffs, rugged wilderness and beautiful landscapes of the Ozark Mountains. That Act of Congress has helped safeguard one of Arkansas’s most prized gems for five decades.

The federal designation was the result of the leadership and vision of Congressman John Paul Hammerschmidt, the longtime representative of the 3rd Congressional District. Using his position on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, he helped protect the Buffalo River and preserve it as an enduring symbol of natural splendor.

This incredible attraction welcomes Arkansans and travelers from all over the world to experience our state’s abundant natural riches. From Big Bluff and Hawksbill Crag, to its famous herd of elk, images of the area are instantly recognizable.

The Buffalo National River provides something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts come to enjoy the excitement of the river, take in the beauty and serenity of the surrounding wilderness and experience the friendliness Arkansas warmly offers. This unique, natural treasure has also been a steady

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April 20, 2022

source of economic growth and a staple of our tourism industry for years.

Helping to grow businesses and communities, the Buffalo National River has contributed to the betterment of the state in countless ways.

I am grateful for all the people who have worked over the years to make this national river what it is today and helped maintain it for all Arkansans to enjoy. It is because of these dedicated individuals and organizations that future generations will be able to experience the river’s beauty and inviting atmosphere just as we do today.

In celebration of this historic milestone, an incredible group of park and community workers and volunteers has planned some great events throughout the year and I’m excited to follow along. On behalf of all Arkansans, I congratulate all those, past and present, who have helped conserve and protect this iconic natural resource that has helped define and differentiate Arkansas for the last 50 years and will continue to do so for many more into the future.

We can be proud of the preservation of the scenic and historic beauty in Arkansas. The thermal springs in Hot Springs have attracted folks to the area for generations. In 1832 Congress designated it the first federal reservation before making it a National Park officially in 1921. Today it offers an opportunity to undergo a traditional bath at the two remaining operational bathhouses.

I was proud to support the Senate-passed resolution recognizing National Park Week as April 16-24. This is a time to promote awareness about the unique landscape across the country and remember we’ve been afforded many outlets to connect with nature.

As an avid outdoorsman I encourage all Arkansans to explore the lands of our national parks and the waters of our national rivers.

Arkansas Department of Agriculture collects over 145,000 pounds of unwanted pesticides LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Abandoned Pesticide Program collected 146,867 pounds of unwanted pesticides in seven counties during Spring 2022 collection events. Since 2005, the Agricultural Abandoned Pesticide Program has overseen the collection and disposal of 5,498,298 pounds of unwanted pesticides in counties across Arkansas.

“The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is proud to work with our partners in administering the Agricultural Abandoned Pesticide Program,” says Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Events like these, held annually throughout the state, help ensure safe and proper disposal of unwanted pesticides and prevent them from potentially polluting our environment.”

The totals for each event were: · · · ·

Sevier/Little River County (DeQueen): 581 pounds Howard/Pike County (Nashville): 488 pounds Polk/Montgomery County (Mena): 3,798 pounds Arkansas County (Stuttgart): 142,000 pounds

Participation in collection events is free and anonymous to farmers and other non-industrial landowners. The program is funded through pesticide registration fees. Pesticide collection events have taken place in every county in the state. Fall 2022 collection dates will be an-

nounced at a later date.

Commonly collected items include old or outdated pesticides such as calcium arsenate, sodium cyanide, lindane, chlordane, and 2,4,5-T. Registered pesticides, like glyphosate products and 2,4-D, that are unusable because they have been exposed to the elements or have been held over from previous growing seasons also can be collected.

The Agricultural Abandoned Pesticide Program is conducted in cooperation with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas Farm Bureau, and the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment. Representatives from these agencies make up the Abandoned Pesticide Advisory Board which is responsible for selecting county sites for collection events. The Advisory Board gives special consideration to priority watersheds when selecting counties/regions for site collections.

Find more information about the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and its programs and services at agriculture.arkansas.gov.

16 News

April 20, 2022

Family keepsake returns home

By Ethan Nahté There are times when an item that belonged to a family member strikes a chord and becomes a sentimental piece. The item may be lost or sold off, but it’s still retained in one’s memory. Unbeknown to Jim Lee, a pistol purchased by his father was about to make its way home.

Bernie Mize received an email from his long-time friend, David Lumbert, who lives in Maumelle, Arkansas. Lumbert was the best man at Bernie and Erma Mize’s wedding in 2000.

His email asked Mize about a Colt Commander .45 that was purchased in Mena in 1967 for $96.82, tax included. That would be the equiva-

lent of over $800 in today’s currency.

Lumbert sent pictures of the gun and ticket with financing paperwork from Ellis Goss Hardware, now Goss Electronics, purchased by Walter F. Lee, Jr. “It was bought brand new in ’67 at Goss’s,” Mize said. “I misunderstood David’s e-mail. I thought that the gun was on Gunbroker.

“I go to church with Larry Dunaway. He’s been around here a long time. I thought he might know these people. I didn’t come here until 2001. Ellis Goss had been dead quite a while at that time. His grandsons run the store, now. I asked Larry because we talk firearms a lot. He could not recall Walter F. Lee, Jr. at that time, so he didn’t bring up Jim.

(l-r) Bernie Mize returns a Lee family heirloom to Jim Lee, his father’s Colt Commander.

“The financial statement says Oden Star Route. I was thinking that was over in Oden. Actually, it was out on Highway 88. Jim has the J&N Dozer service. Later on, Lar-

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had been sold by Walter, nor who he had sold it to. It may have been Garner’s friend.

“David had really wanted to keep the gun, but since it was Jim’s father’s gun, he would sell it for $1,200.

This is considerably less than the gun is valued.

“According to my gun Blu eb o ok ,” Mize said, “the gun is probably worth somewhere between $1,800 to $2,000.

Purchased in 1967 from Goss Hardware by Walter F. Lee, Jr., this The box and Colt Commander .45 has made its way back to Lee’s son, Jim. (Photo courtesy of Bernie Mize) the paperwork make ry told me his dad lived across the it worth more. Every collector, for road. That mail route was the Oden some reason wants the box… and Star Route.” the paperwork where it came from.”

“The next Sunday, Larry informed “It’s probably valuable because of me that Walter was Jim Lee’s father, its age. There’s a lot of Colt collecwhom we attend Church with. tors. David’s been a collector of sin“Jim came and talked to me about gle-action Colts and Winchesters, the gun. Jim said he would really like especially the Colt .45 for years.” to have the gun back. I told him that Mize had a dental appointment in I would look on Gunbroker to see if Little Rock on April 6. He met with it was still there. I was unsuccessful Lumbert for lunch and purchased in finding the gun. the pistol.

“I talked to David, the next day At 4:30 that afternoon, Mize delivand learned that he actually had the ered the Colt to Jim Lee at his place gun. He informed me that he had of business on Highway 88 East. bought the gun from a U.S. Deputy Mize said, “He was elated to have Marshall at Rison, Arkansas named this piece from his father.”

Hershel Garner. Garner was selling Although its unknown when the it for a friend of his. I told David that Colt left Mena, and it’s been sold off Jim would really like to have his fa- to at least a couple of other owners, ther’s gun back.

55 years after its purchase, the Colt Mize was not told when the pistol has found its way home.

THE POLK COUNTY

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by Ray Shelley

History 17

April 20, 2022

US Deputy Marshal Paden Tolbert

There is a small town in Oklahoma called Paden. The town’s location is 127 miles west of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and a few miles north of Interstate Highway 40. According to the 2020 census, the population was 448, founded in 1903. It is the only town in Oklahoma named after a wellthought-of and respected lawman U.S Deputy Paden Tolbert.

Paden Tolbert was born in Griffin, Georgia, in 1863. His father, James Russell Tolbert, studied law and was a journalist. He was unsuccessful at farming but regained his success a few years later.

In 1880, James purchased a small newspaper business in Clarksville, Arkansas, Johnson County. He also bought a farm and successfully raised and introduced the Elberta peach.

Clarksville still holds an Elberta peach festival each year.

Paden Tolbert became a schoolmaster in Clarksville and a volunteer deputy sheriff. He also had a desire to become involved in law enforcement.

One of his mentors was deputy sheriff Bud Ledbetter. (I wrote about Ledbetter’s introduction as a career in a previous article, becoming a lawman by wearing his married suit made of linen.)

Over time Ledbetter and Tolbert became friends. Ledbetter would show Tolbert tracking methods, plus how to stay alive while trailing men wanted by the law. Tolbert was a fast learner and gleamed much from Ledbetter’s teachings.

On March 7, 1883, four young bandits attempted to rob St Louis, San Francisco, Southern railroad train 30 miles west of Clarksville. In the failed robbery attempt, the bandits got away, but not before shooting the conductor, who died the next day.

Paden, Oklahoma is the only town in the state named after a lawman—U.S. Deputy Marshal Paden Tolbert (Photo courtesy of Ray Shelley)

A posse was dispatched, and a wire was sent to Sheriff E.T. McConnell requesting help. McConnell sent “… the Invincibles, as they were known, Deputy Ledbetter and Deputy John Powers.”

Ledbetter and Powers, along with posseman Tolbert, took the next westbound train to Franklin County.

Ledbetter rented a mule for supplies and loaded up plenty of ammunition when the three arrived.

It took the three deputies three weeks of tracking to capture the ban-

dits. The bandits were exhausted and gave up without a fight. During their week chase, Tolbert would telegraph his father about their progress; his dad would then publish the information in the Johnson County Herald, keeping the readers advised of the lawman’s progress.

After the defense won a change of venue, the four bandits were tried in Johnson County, found guilty, and hanged on June 12, 1885, for the murder of the train conductor.

After the trial, McConnell retired, and Sheriff W.S. Jett elected to take his place. The first order of business was to make Tolbert a full-time deputy.

Tolbert worked as a sheriff ’s deputy until 1891. The action had slowed down. Tolbert resigned his position to accept a position as a United States Deputy Marshal for the Muskogee Federal Court. He was stationed in Vinita, Indian Territory (currently Oklahoma). To supplement his earnings, Tolbert took a part-time job as a railroad agent for the Katy Flyer railroad.

Eventually, Tolbert convinced his friend Ledbetter to make a move to Vinita. Although there were no openings for a deputy at the time, Tolbert got Ledbetter a full-time job as a railroad agent for the Katy.

On November 13, 1894, Tolbert received information that Katy was to be robbed. Three Pinkerton men, with Tolbert, Ledbetter, Sid Johnson, and Frank Jones, rode in the express car protecting the gold shipment.

The attempted robbery took place at the Blackstone switch between the Arkansas and Verdigris River near Wybark, a settlement six miles from Muskogee.

After a prolonged shootout, the Nathanial “Texas Jack” Reed gang gave up the possibility of getting the gold from the express car. They satisfied

themselves by robbing the passengers, then fled. Texas Jack was wounded by Ledbetter. The gang was eventually captured after a massive search.

Ledbetter was sworn in as a U.S. Deputy Marshal by the end of the year.

Shortly after the Texas Jack incident, Tolbert and deputy C.S. White, plus 16 posseman, made a third attempt at capturing Ned Christie, a Cherokee Indian accused of killing U.S. Deputy Marshal Dan Maples.

Tolbert told White to gather supplies while he would go to Fort Scott, Kansas, and borrow a cannon that fired 3-pound cannonballs. (This was the only time a cannon was used by law enforcement).

When Tolbert returned and everything was in place, Christie was asked to surrender. He replied by firing his rifle at the posse. When the cannon was fired, the cannonballs bounced off the well-fortified cabin.

A dynamite charge was set at the corner of the cabin and ignited, which blew a giant hole in the cabin. Christie tried to escape, running to the woodline, but was brought down by a hail of bullets.

Tolbert retired after 12 years of dedicated service as a U.S. Deputy Marshal and became a full-time special agent for the railroad. After assuming his new position, he became ill and was diagnosed with congestion of the lungs.

Tolbert died in Weleetka, Oklahoma, on April 24, 1904, at the age of 34. He is buried in Oakland Cemetery near Clarksville, Arkansas.

Tolbert’s wife was named the second “Postmistress of Paden,” the town named after her husband.

U.S. Marshal Leo E. Bennett stated at his funeral, “Paden Tolbert was one of the bravest men that he ever had on the force.”

18 Police

April 20, 2022

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 15, 2022 Officers were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 4 near Cove in reference to an altercation.

April 11, 2022 Deputies responded to a report of a missing person from a residence on Polk 646 near Mena. The person was located.

April 16, 2022 Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to possible child abuse.

April 12, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 70 near Cherry Hill in reference to a domestic disturbance. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

April 13, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to an MVA on Highway 246 near Hatfield leading to the arrest of Jessica Mann, 21 of Ashdown by an officer with the Arkansas State Police on charges of DWI, Driving on a Suspended DL and Open Container.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 87 near Ink in reference to a disturbance. This led to the arrest of Shawnna Morris, 25 of Mena on charges of Public Intoxication, Disorderly Conduct and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor 2nd Degree.

April 14, 2022 Officers responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to Forgery.

A report of endangering the welfare of a Minor was taken at Mena Medical Associates.

A repot of violation of an order of protection was taken from a walk-in complainant.

A report of harassment and criminal mischief was taken from a walkin complainant.

Jaden Fussell, 20, was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana with intent to Deliver, and served with two warrants after a traffic stop on Reeves Avenue.

April 17, 2022 April 12 Officers responded to a walk-in Michael White, 56, was charged complainant in reference to a report with Driving on Suspended License of a violation of a no contact order. after a traffic stop on Bethesda Road.

Gary Smith, 44, was charged with Polk County Sheriff ’s Office Criminal Trespass at Phillips 66. worked 1 vehicle accident this week.

Jason Cox, 36, was served with a warrant at the police department.

Polk County Detention Center A report of theft of vehicle, theft Jail Population: 23 Incarcerated In- of property, and fraudulent use of a mates, with 12 Inmates currently on credit card was taken at a residence the Waiting List for a State Facility. on Dequeen Street.

MENA POLICE REPORTS April 10 James Ragain, 39, was charged with DWI and No Driver’s License after a traffic stop on Sherwood Avenue.

A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Walker Drive.

A report of fraudulent use of a credit card was taken from a walk-in complainant.

April 11 Jordan Schmitz, 23, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

April 13 No reports.

April 14 A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Highway 71.

A report of theft of motor fuel was taken at Murphy USA. A report of theft by deception was taken at Fabulous Finds.

A report of harassing communications was taken from a walk-in complainant.

Bradley Brumfield, 32, was served with six warrants and Cheryl Smith, 32, was served with two warrants, and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession

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of Drug Paraphernalia after a traffic stop on 7th Street.

Christopher Chesser, 36, was charged with Domestic Battery and served with a warrant after a disturbance call on Morrow Street.

Rodney Morrison, 36, was charged with Domestic Battery and Battery after a disturbance call to Tapley Park.

April 15 Coby Clickenbeard, 27, was charged with criminal trespass at a residence on Pickering Avenue.

David Fraser, 53, was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving on Suspended License, No Liability Insurance, No Vehicle License and served with four warrants after a traffic stop on Pine Avenue.

April 16 A report of fraudulent use of a credit card was taken from a walk-in complainant.

Kasi Dollarhyde, 39, was served with two warrants after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

FOR ALL OF YOUR LOCAL NEWS AND EVENTS FIND US ONLINE AT

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Classfieds 19

April 20, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204.

T0420 Wendell’s Tree Service - Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328.

T0601 Land Management, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

T0427 Jeremiah’s lawn care. Friendly service & reasonable rates. Call (479) 394-7599.T0427 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

T0427

-ANNOUNCEMENTS-

Polk County Farmers Market annual meeting, Thursday, April 21, 6 p.m. in the educational building next to the Polk County Extension Office. (479) 234-6467 T0420

- WANTED TO BUY I buy broken desktops and laptops.

Mitchell Computer Services, 717 Mena St. T0608

- LOST & FOUND -

MISSING - 1 female German shepherd & 1 female small reddish-brown dog. Last seen near Polk Road 20 West in Cove. $500 reward for return of each dog. Please call with any information regarding to disappearance (479) 216-4731 T0420

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0427

- 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.

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.

We are seeking a maintenance operator that will serve as a specialist in leak detection, GIS mapping, and customer service needs. The ideal candidate will be able to communicate effectively with customers and leadership, possess basic knowledge of current software programs, be able to work both independently and as a team member, and have the drive to plan and act on developing needs of the water utility. If this sounds like you, we would like to visit with you about the opportunity to join our team.

Job Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Be able to learn and operate GIS software 2. Be able to learn and operate leak detection software 3. Communicate effectively with customers and leadership 4. Ability to read and change out water meters 5. Ability to organize and maintain records 6. Promote beneficial public relations 7.

Maintenance of facilities 8. Have or be able to gain a CDL license 9. Ability to repair broken water and sewer mains 10. Maintenance of vehicles and equipment 11. Work well with fellow employees 12. Maintain high level of technical proficiency 13. Work with chemicals Special Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 1. Obtain required licensing for water/wastewater 2. Safely operate a motor vehicle 3. Observe situations and record them accurately 4. Ability to work independently without supervision 5. Good verbal and written communication skills 6. Mechanically inclined 7. Ability to read blueprints and maps 8. Work safely in everything you do

Preacher Wanted Christ’s Church Cove wants a preacher to fill in twice per month. For information, call Larry at (405) 406-4727 T0427 Help Wanted - Caregiver, 15 minutes west of Mena for a wonderful, elderly man with dementia. Please call Denise at (224) 656-4149 T0420 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.

Are you highly motivated, hard-working, self-driven and seeking to join an established company? Are you looking for a company that will invest in your development and grow your professional skills? If so, consider a career with the Mena Water Utilities.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

- SERVICES -

IMMEDIATE JOB

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

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

Qualifications: Applicant must: 1. Be 18 years of age 2. Have a high school diploma or GED 3. Possess a current valid driver's license and have a good driving record 4. Be able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds 5. Have physical stamina for duty requirements 6. Willing to work with treatment chemicals 7. Willing to work at high heights (climbing tanks) 8. Willing to work in confined spaces 9. Willing to attend classes out of town 10. Be able to work weekends, after hours, and holidays in emergency situations 11. Be able to work outdoors in any weather condition 12. Be able to pass a demanding test within two years

Benefits: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Health, dental, and vision insurance Life insurance Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time Retirement Starting pay is $12-$15 per hour

All candidates are subject to a drug screen and background check. Mena Water Utilities is an equal opportunity employer.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The information above is intended to describe the general nature of this position and is not to be considered a complete statement of duties, responsibilities, and requirements.

20 Puzzles

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 20, 2022

04.20.22

04.20.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 04.13.22

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hi, My name is Nala. I weigh 54 lbs. and I am guessed to be an Afghan Hound / Great Pyrenees. I am 3 years old and such a sweet girl. I am good with other dogs, but have not been tested with cats or kids. I love to run and play. I am up to date on all vaccinations and spayed. I am so excited to meet you and go home with you! Come meet me today. My adoption fee is $ 80.00.

All animals at HSO are current on their vaccinations and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

If not already spayed/neutered, there may be a short delay between when you select this pet and when they are ready to go home.

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

THE POLK COUNTY

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April 20, 2022

Supervised prom after-party being held

By Trey Youngdahl While prom is an exciting time for young adults this time of year, especially with the newfound ability to socialize again without the looming presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns are still present regarding underage drinking and driving following prom after-parties. Due to these concerns, parents have formed an After-Prom Committee to plan their own supervised after party April 23.

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that approximately 300 teens have been killed in alcohol-related accidents on prom weekend over the past several years. 41% of teens said that it was likely that they or their friends would use drugs or alcohol on prom night.

“The After-Prom Committee is a group of parents who have gotten together to give the kids a place to go and hang out and have fun without the use of alcohol,” After-Prom Committee member Adriana Davis said.

The event will take place at Mena High School immediately following the prom. Only Mena High School juniors and seniors and their guests will be allowed at the event. They will be hosting the After-Prom Olympics with such games as ping pong, cornhole, old school four square, dodgeball, inflatables, and mechanical bull riding. Students

who attend will also receive gifts and door prizes from the community businesses who sponsored the event.

Among the several businesses who sponsored the event were Miner’s A and B Tire, Aleshire Electric, Allen Herod CPA, Aynes Ice LLC, Board Camp Crystal Mine, Bowser Family Funeral Home, Brodix inc., Century 21 Perry Real Estate, Chiquita’s, KAWX 93.1, Country Express, Edward Jones and Associates, Farm Bureau Insurance, First Baptist Church, Freedom Pharmacy, Gilchrist Tractor, Denise Gilchrest Pampered Chef, Jake’s Fireworks, Karl Cunningham CPA, Medi-Shoppe Pharmacy, Mena Insurance Agency, Mena Regional Health Systems, Mena Tire, Miller Veterinary Services, PCDC, Rich Mountain Electric Co-op, Ricky’s Handyman Service, Shelter Insurance, Telissa Montgomery, Sterling Machinery, Sun Country Inn, Suzy Q’s Sweet Creams and Coffee, The Corner Shoppe, The Outback Barn, Union Bank of Mena, Walmart Supercenter, Washburn’s, Wolf Pen Gap ATV Rentals, Beth Carver, Mena Elk’s Lodge No. 781, and Rich Mountain Clinic. The event was only made possible through their contributions, and Davis continued sharing her enthusiasm for the quality of the event.

“It’s a great place for the kids to come spend time, relax, play games and have refreshments and not be on the roads.”

Education 21

Extending learning beyond the classroom Submitted by UARM UA Fort Smith (UAFS) recently extended an invitation to sister school UA Rich Mountain’s (UARM) English Composition II (Comp II) students to meet New York Times best-selling author David Grann. Grann is the author of the book – Killers of the Flower Moon, which covers the Osage murders in Oklahoma during the 1920s. The students had just completed studying the book that features one of the FBI’s first major cases under J. Edgar Hoover.

Comp II Instructor Mysti Gates accompanied the students along with Brenda Miner, Director of Library Services, and Dr. Krystal Thrailkill, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs. Gates expressed her appreciation to UAFS who made this unique opportunity available to UARM students. “They

provided our students with the books and provided dinner for us as well.

Students were even able to have their books autographed by Grann,” said Gates.

Thrailkill commended Gates’ efforts and ability to engage students with the literature beyond the written words.

Gates’ introductory activity as the class began the book was an escape room based on the subjects discussed in the book. “I used the book as a starting point and reached out to the Osage Nation in Pawhuska for materials relating to their language and culture.” The students expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet the author and visit the UAFS campus.

UA Rich Mountain’s mission is to provide transformative education to all learners.

Winners of annual science fair announced

The UA Rich Mountain Science Club held its annual Science Fair April 1 in the Ouachita Center. The club was unable to hold the event in 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions and was grateful to return to the event that provides an opportunity for science minded students to create projects and compete for prizes.

The club received approximately 20 entries. Science Department Chair and Science Club Sponsor Dr. Gaumani Gyanwali expressed his gratitude to the community for their continued support. “Before COVID, we had more participants and great momentum growing the event. We are happy to be able to hold the event again and I am hopeful that it spark a renewed interest in our young scientists.”

High School/College category: 1st Place - $300 cash prize and trophy – Water Stress Experiment Participants: Lakelin Ashley, Tyler Shook, Kate Duncan (UARM) 2nd Place - $150 cash prize – Natural Sunlight Versus Sunlight Lamp Participant: Jennifer Taylor (UARM)

Honorable mention - $50 Walmart gift card – Ready, Set Fly Participant: David Castillow (Caddo Hills High School) Middle/Junior High category: 1st Place - $200 cash and trophy – Increasing Distance with a Dowel in a Mouse Trap Car Participants: Eilam Holland and Regan Larucci (ACORN) 2nd place - $100 cash prize – Effects of Rubbing Alcohol Participant: Tanzanna Haggar (ACORN) Honorable mention - $50 Walmart gift card – Elephant Toothpaste Experiment Participants: Reily Crabtree and Cadence Onstott (ACORN) Local community sponsors supporting the event include: Union Bank, Nidec, Walmart, Patrick and Wendy McDaniel, Chris Masters, Samantha Shores, Joanne Coogan, Mena Middle School teachers, and the UARM Science Club who raised money from their periodic table cookie sale in February.

UA Rich Mountain’s mission is to provide transformative education to all learners.

22 Sports

April 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Lady Bucks dedication leads to success

By Trey Youngdahl

Soccer April 22 - Robinson @ Mena April 26 - De Queen @ Mena Baseball April 22 - Mena @ De Queen April 25 - Nashville @ Mena April 26 - Heavener @ Mena (Sr. night) Softball April 21 - Waldron @ Mena April 22 - Mena @ De Queen April 26 - Nashville @ Mena

The season is coming to a close after another successful year for the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain’s (UARM) female track and field team.

The Lady Bucks program was started in the fall of 2018, when Samantha Shores was asked to coach the program. Shores, originally from northeast Illinois, moved north of Mena to Waldron while still in high school where she played basketball, but had no interest in their track program.

“I actually hated everything about track and field,” Shores chuckled.

“When I started working for UARM, I did a lot of trail running and mountain biking. When they decided that

Track April 21- Acorn @ Southside April 26 - Acorn @ Mansfield Baseball/Softball April 21 - Acorn @ Mountainburg April 22 - Acorn @ Waldron (Boys only) April 26 - Cossatot @ Acorn (Girls only)

Softball April 21 - Lake Hamilton @ Cossatot April 22 - Dierks @ Cossatot April 22 - Cossatot @ Acorn Soccer April 21 - Cossatot @ Baptist Prep April 26 - Maumelle Charter @ Cossatot

Baseball April 21 - UARM @ South Arkansas Community College April 23 - South Arkansas Community College @ UARM April 25 - UARM @ Henderson State Development Team Softball April 21 - Rose State College @ UARM April 23 - Northeast Texas Community College @ UARM April 25 - UARM @ Northern Oklahoma College Track April 23 - Sooner Athletic Conference Invitational

they were going to start cross-country here, they asked me if I wanted to coach the team.”

Besides Shores’ marked interest in trail running and endurance sports, UARM was also interested in having her coach the program due to her background in exercise physiology.

She uses that background to drill her runners through an advanced training program. This program includes running five miles at 5 a.m. every weekday, distance running, weightlifting that is specifically conducive to runners, and even yoga.

To be successful in UARM’s track and field program, you have to be dedicated to the sport.

“I am most proud of their dedication,” Shores said. “They work so hard. Not only just outside of the classroom, but inside the classroom.

They have strong grades and a strong team GPA. Not very many people are willing to give up a party at night or time with their friends in the evening because they know that they have to get up early and run at 5 in the morning.”

Ava Miranda competed in the program’s fall semester and was the Lady Bucks’ first All-American competitor in the team’s history, placing in the top 25 runners in the national tournament.

“They’re always willing to show up every day and put in the work,” Shores said. “It’s exciting for me as a coach to see that work pay off for them.”

The Lady Bucks will be competing in the Sooner Athletic Conference Invitational at John Brown University in Siloam Springs Saturday, April 23.

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By Richie Lawry The Facebook Messenger notification popped up on my phone. I opened the app to read the message. It was from Domira, the Ukrainian girl who had spent time in our home back in the ‘90s.

After learning that Domira had made it out of Ukraine and was safe in Germany, she and I had been in contact through Messenger. The message read, “Thank you, Richard, so much for your prayers and support. It means a lot. I can’t even express my words of gratitude.”

As we messaged back and forth, Domira reminisced about her time in Mena. “Wow, Thank you for your support. I had a flashback of when I came to visit you. I didn’t speak much English, and you gave me so much support and love, and care. I will never forget it. I ate my first Ben and Jerry’s ice cream; it’s still my favorite. Your wife is the kindest woman in the world, who took care of me and even made a red dress for me and bought red shoes. I still remember how they looked. They were the best presents in my life. The shoes were the first new shoes that I ever had. It’s all stayed in my memories, your beautiful house, and movie nights. Your daughter was so loving and caring. That gave me the strength to go through all difficulties in a new country without family, friends, and barrier of language. Thank you, God, for showing me how much he loves me through such a lovely family like yours. May God Bless You in Many Ways!”

Once Domira made it out of Ukraine and into Germany, although a refugee herself, she began helping other refugees find places to stay. When I asked her how my wife and I could help, she said, “the best way to send money is Western Union. I just checked that the system is working. I have online banking in Ukraine, so that means, I can transfer money to people that volunteer.

April 20, 2022

An Arkie’s Faith Domira’s Gratitude

My dear friends and some of my family also there, help with the evacuation and bringing people food and medicine, so I can transfer right away the money to people that I trust, and I know what they do, and they send also video or photos.”

After the story of Domira’s harrowing escape from the war in Ukraine was published in the Polk County Pulse, several people asked how they could help.

While I was in The Coffee Vault in Cove, Tom came up to me and said, “I read about the Ukrainian girl in the paper.

Here is some money I would like to get to her.” I told him that I would be sending her some money soon and make sure that she got it. Allen contacted me and wanted to know how to donate. I gave him the information on how to send money to Domira via Western Union. Because of the Western Union fees, Allen sent the money to me, and I added it to Tom’s money and other donations I had received before sending it to Domira.

Earlier, I had sent money from our family to Domira. I messaged her to give her the Western Union information so that she could pick up the money at her location. After picking up the money, she replied, “Thank you so much!

Everything went through just fine. I received the money and will send it to my good family. They are in Kyiv, where they volunteer and bring bread and oth-

er things to people in need. And now they even have a chance to help the ones who evacuated from Bucha, Irpin and Gostomel, the small towns that were destroyed completely. They are now in Kyiv, and random people took them to their places. I will keep you posted.

Thank you for being a blessing to many!

Many people didn’t eat bread for forty

days because of occupied territory, and all of them had to stay in the basement.”

After sending the money to those still in Ukraine, Domira sent me information and photos showing how the money was used. She wrote, “my close friend stayed in Kiev with his three kids and parents. He stays there and helps many people that are really in need.

Yesterday, he went with some friends outside of Kyiv, and all small towns Bucha, Irpin, Gostomel and many others, that were occupied by the Russian army for almost 40 days. They are almost destroyed and many civilians were killed when they were trying to leave, so bodies are all over, just laying on the streets.

Just a small percentage of people stayed

Joke of the Week:

I wanted to start a bakery, but I couldn’t raise the dough.

Faith 23 in their houses in their basements, till Ukrainian army showed up. So, my friend brought bread, water (they don’t have clean water) and rest of the things.

People were just hugging and kissing the bread, especially kids and older people. I can’t watch it without tears.”

After receiving donations for Domira from Tom, Allen, my Daddy, and others, I messaged Domira to tell her that I would be sending the money via Western Union. She replied, “I’m reading it and crying. God answers our prayers.

Some German churches delivered food to the Romanian border, but we needed to find money for gas in order to deliver it to Kyiv and now you are sending this message. God does the miracles.

Thank you for being such a blessing to our country.”

Domira’s gratitude has been a blessing to me but has also opened my eyes to my own weakness. When I look at my life, I realize that I become ungrateful whenever I am inconvenienced. Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (AMPC), “Thank God in everything, no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks, for this is the will of God for you who are in Christ Jesus.” I need to work on being thankful no matter what the circumstances may be.

Gentle Reader, “Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good. His faithful love continues forever.” Psalms 106:1 (NIRV) One of the ways we can demonstrate our thanks to God is to be compassionate and caring towards those here on Earth.

Even small gestures can mean a great deal. “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16 (NIV) Good intentions only go so far.

To truly help others, you must act in some way. You must be active in your faith for it to be meaningful. Show your faith and gratitude to God by helping someone today.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

Give Richie a call at 479-3949938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South

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April 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

394-1938

TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHAUST • SHOCKS & STRUTS

Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm

1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash