Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
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August 10, 2022
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Democratic nominee Chris Jones to visit Mena
INSIDE:
By Ethan Nahté The Polk County Democratic Party will be doing more than just a fundraiser August 15. They have invited Chris Jones, the Arkansas gubernato-
August A&P Meeting
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Municipal Candidate Filings
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American Legion Riders
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Peter Toth’s sculpture “Whispering Giant” is No. 30 of 67 in his series of sculptures. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
See FUN DAY continued on page 12
rial nominee for the Democratic Party, to visit Mena that Monday evening for a meet and greet. Linda Johnson with the Polk County Democratic Party said Jones will be appearing at The Daisy Room, located behind Janssen Avenue Florist & Gifts/ Merle Norman Studio, scheduled for 6 p.m. Jones will answer questions from attendees. Jones will also be doing his Walk a Mile in Your Shoes Tour, an event he has been doing around Arkansas communities, in which he meets residents, factory workers, visits churches or community centers, etc. and discussing issues and policies. Jones intends to do his walk in all 75 counties within Arkansas.
2 News
August 10, 2022
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
STB Issues Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Proposed CP/KCS Merger The Surface Transportation Board’s Office of Environmental Analysis (OEA) issued a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) today (see https://www. stb.gov/news-communications/ latest-news/pr-22-40/) for the proposed acquisition of Kansas City Southern Railway Company (KCS) by Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (CP) in Docket No. FD 36500. The Draft EIS analyzes the potential environmental impacts of the proposed acquisition, including impacts related to expected increases in rail traffic ranging from 8 to approximately 14.4 additional trains per day, on average, on CP and KCS rail lines between Chicago, Illinois and Laredo, Texas. OEA is now inviting individuals, agencies, organizations, tribes, and other interested parties to submit comments on all aspects of the Draft EIS. Commenters may submit written comments electronically through the Board’s environmental comment form at https://www.stb. gov/proceedings-actions/e-filing/environmental-comments/. In addition, commenters may provide oral comments at one or more of the in-person and online public meetings that OEA will hold during the public comment period. In-person public meetings will take place on September 12, 2022, in Itasca, Illinois; September 13,
2022, in Davenport, Iowa; September 14, 2022, in Excelsior Springs, Missouri; and September 15, 2022, in Vidor, Texas. Online public meetings will take place on September 7, 8, and 19, 2022. The Board-sponsored project website at www. CP-KCSMergerEIS.com provides additional instructions on how to submit comments and additional information on the in-person and online public meetings. Comments on the Draft EIS will be due by September 26, 2022. OEA’s public meetings on the Draft EIS will cover only the environmental issues raised in the case. The Board will hold a separate public hearing on September 28, 29, and 30, 2022, at the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. to hear comments on the merits of the proposed merger. The Draft EIS in Canadian Pacific Railway Limited; Canadian Pacific Railway Company; Soo Line Railroad Company; Central Maine & Quebec Railway US Inc.; Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern Railroad Corporation; and Delaware & Hudson Railway Company, Inc.—Control—Kansas City Southern; The Kansas City Southern Railway Company; Gateway Eastern Railway Company; and The Texas Mexican Railway Company. Docket No. FD 36500, may be viewed and downloaded from the pr-22-40 page provided in the first paragraph of this article.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Letters 3
August 10, 2022
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Our Team: Ashley Moore - General Manager Ethan Nahté - Production Manager/Editor Patrick Massey - Contributing Reporter John Russell - Graphic Design Curt Teasdale - Programmer / On-Air Personality Trey Youngdahl - Reporter / Photographer Photographer// Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Jodi Croft - Account Executive Ariel Varner - Receptionist/On-Air Personality Distribution & Insertion Staff: Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Edward Werkhoven The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Letter to the Editor: I am almost 69 years old and last night I am sweating in 97-degree heat. My recent pacemaker surgical site hurts. I am not supposed to lift and evidently carrying my chair, water, and sign with a stick was too much. We are out protesting for Women’s Rights. The sun is beating down and I get a headache. Irregardless of the discomfort I am pleased to be out protesting We have very nice positive feedback from those that drive by. We are at the light at Walmart in Mena on a Friday night. We are passing on information of birth control options at the Health Department. We have free condoms and pregnancy tests. There are less of our regulars here tonight due to acceptable reasons. But there are not a lot of us even when our group shows up. We have started a group here in Mena and you can find us under Polk County AR for Human Rights: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/752635975931547/. What happened to all the women who showed up at the courthouse the day Roe v. Wade got overturned? They showed up the next week and then...nothing. This kind of fight does not get solved easily nor quickly. I notice a woman who had a sign in her yard concerning this issue is no longer there. What happened? Where are all the young, healthy women this impacts? They grew up knowing they had options. Do they want to be happily pregnant and something is wrong with the baby or their health and be left to nearly die because of the fear doctors now have of being imprisoned? Or do these younger people want to be forced into a pregnancy they are too young or prepared for? Maybe they never wanted children in the first place. Is this just the start of deleting woman’s power and transforming their status to “walking incubators” instead of doctors, lawyers, CEOs, etc.? Arkansas has one of the cruelest abortion bans in place. Arkansas only allows the procedure to save the life of the mother and does not provide exceptions for those impregnated in an act of rape or incest. So how do we get woman to band together? Join our group or others? Will they get out and vote? And where does voting even help when this law has no room for voting by the majority. Is it that this is a small “Bible belt” town? Are these women scared and pressured? Threatened by husbands and family or loss of their jobs if they show up? I am fortunate to be retired and on pension. Do we need others like me that were on the cusp of abor-
tion law changes or worked vigilantly to instill Roe v. Wade fifty years ago be expected or take on the responsibility to AGAIN carry the torch? Should we gladly do it? What are the answers and how do we get women and men to show up for this cause? Cynthia Thanos-Wade, Mena
Letter to the Editor I would like to take this moment to express my disgust with the hypocrisy of the Polk County Quorum Court. At the June 28th meeting, the Quorum Court passed a Resolution that basically states they are the moral authority and protectors of Polk County families, and that since alcohol is detrimental to families, they will maintain that Polk County is dry “in whole” when it comes to the legal ability to sell alcohol, as far as the Polk County Quorum Court is concerned. At their July 26th meeting, the Quorum Court decided, upon the third reading, to vote against the Blue Zip Line and Farm, a local business, expanding their tourism profits. The Quorum Court, in their infinite wisdom as the protectors of Polk County Families and residents, denied Blue Zip Line a permit to sell alcohol. The fact that other businesses in Polk County sell alcohol did not sway them in an way. The odd thing is that Polk County will NOT be a “dry” county because they are not going to enforce this resolution when it comes to the Elks Lodge, the Ouachita Country Club, the Eagles, or any other places outside Mena city limits that are currently able to sell alcohol, not to mention the places you can go to in Mena to drink. This is only going to prevent “new” alcohol “permits in the county limits.” If Polk County citizens vote to make the county “wet”, then the Resolution will become null and void. It seems rather obvious that the Polk County Quorum Court doesn’t really care about keeping the county dry as much as it does allowing the older “clubs” to carry on as usual while preventing newer businesses from enjoying the same options for profits. It is truly bothersome that they think the rules only apply to the new people. Thank you, Mary Meier, Mena
Want to share your opinion? The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. Letters will be restricted to 500 words. Any letters longer than 500 words will require purchase of advertising space. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after-hour convenience.
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4 Politics
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Boozman introduces amendment to get more Americans back to work
August 10, 2022
WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, introduced an amendment to the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending bill that would restore a pre-COVID policy requiring able-bodied adults without dependents to join the workforce in order to continue receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Specifically, Boozman’s amendment would require able-bodied adults without dependents to either work or participate in a work program at least 20 hours per week to receive SNAP benefits beyond three months. This requirement has been paused since the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” was signed into law in March 2020. “These work requirements were established on a bipartisan basis. They
were waived for the COVID emergency on a bipartisan basis. They should be reinstated with bipartisan support to now that COVID restrictions have largely ended,” Boozman said. “Job openings are still near a historic high, contributing to our ongoing supply chain bottleneck. It is time for these requirements to be enforced so that able-bodied adults return to the workforce.” There are more than 10.6 million job openings, 5.7 million unemployed individuals, and nearly two job openings per unemployed persons. While unemployment rates are low at 3.5 percent, the number of individuals not in the job market is over 100 million and the labor force participation rate is only 62 percent. Employers added 528 thousand jobs, but to do so wages had to grow sharply, which contributes to higher inflation.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Politics 5
August 10, 2022
From the
State House of Representatives
out an armed presence at any The Governor is calling the time. General Assembly into an ExSince many of these recomtraordinary Session next week mendation will require fundto address the use of surplus ing, the Governor has stated he funds to provide tax relief and will ask the legislature to use funding for school safety mea$50 million from the state sursures. plus to create a grant program The Arkansas School Safety John Maddox for school districts. Commission was reinstated in The other item on the Govthe wake of the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Members of the ernor’s call concerns use of surplus original commission created in March funds to provide tax relief. Proposals 2018 submitted 30 recommendations include accelerating future reductions in their original 124-page report. Many of income and corporate tax cuts and of their recommendations were intro- creating a $150 tax credit for Arkansans duced by the legislature and subse- making below a designated income threshold. quently became law. In an Extraordinary Session (often reIn recent weeks, the commission has been identifying new recommendations ferred to as a special session), the Govon best practices regarding school safe- ernor is required to specify the purpose ty that have developed since the com- for convening. No other business can mission’s 2018 report. The commission’s be transacted by the General Assembly report was delivered the Governor this until every item on the call has been disposed of. week. It requires a 2/3 majority vote in both The new recommendations include chambers to remain in session after disensuring that all students have access to posing items on the call. That extension mental health services and establishing cannot exceed 15 days. a behavioral threat assessment team. You can review recently filed legislaAnother recommendation states that all schools should ideally have at least tion and links to live streams of all comone School Resource Officer for each mittee meetings and House floor procampus and no campus should be with- ceedings at www.arkansashouse.org.
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
State Senate locked all day. Doors that are When it meets in special sesfrequently used should be sion the legislature will considequipped with electronic acer a $50 million grant program for school safety measures. cess controls. Schools should The governor proposed makhave a master key to provide law enforcement in the event ing grants available for schools of a critical incident. Teachthat need financial help to implement recommendations ers and staff should be able to made recently by the Arkansas Larry Teague lock classroom doors from the School Safety Commission. Alinside, with access only for authough its final report isn’t due until thorized personnel. October 1, the commission has alVisitors to the school should come and go from only one entrance, and ready released a preliminary report schools should have a procedure for with a long list of recommendations. escorting visitors. The governor reinstated the comSchools should have security cammission after the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. It was originally eras that can be monitored by desformed in 2018 after the school shootignated personnel and local law ening in Parkland, Florida. forcement. The recommendations this year inDuring emergencies, staff and teachers should have access to reliable clude providing more access to mental communications such as intercoms, health treatment for students, more cell phones and two-way radios. Ratraining in mental health treatment for staff and the creation of behaviordio systems should connect with local law enforcement. al threat assessment teams. The teams The commission also plans to recwould be composed of staff who are trained to recognize potentially vioommend setting up a statewide holent responses when students get bultline for receiving confidential tips about potential threats. lied or stressed. State government has a budget surA school resources officer who is armed should be on campus at all plus of about $1.6 billion. The main times. The commission specified that issue during the special session will if financially practicable there should be a plan to accelerate the reduction be an armed presence in each buildof income taxes previously approved. When the tax cuts take full effect, they ing. will save Arkansas families and busiIn a 2019 survey, 79 percent of Arkansas school districts reported havnesses about $700 million a year. A grant program can provide quick ing an armed officer. However, only 20 help with school safety measures that percent had an officer on every camrequire money, such as electronic acpus within the district. The commission suggested that cess controls on doors. schools have an agreement with local The commission’s list of recomlaw enforcement agencies to clarify mendations must be approved by the the roles that school officers would legislature to take effect. Also, the leghave in the event of a shooting. School islature will determine the rules for officers should receive specialized applying for grants. training, since their duties would Since 1997 Arkansas has had six stubring them into constant contact with dents and one teacher killed in school young people. shootings. Also, 13 students, staff and Another recommendation is that teachers have been wounded. schools should keep their doors
6 Politics
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Governor Hutchinson issues call Arkansas Senate Republican Caucus Issues for Special Session Statement on the Upcoming Special Session
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson, on Friday, August 5, issued a call for the Third Extraordinary Session of the 93rd General Assembly. The purpose of the Session is to provide immediate tax relief for Arkansans and set aside $50 million for a school safety grant program. “As inflation rises and the cost of living increases, Arkansans need more money in their pockets,” Governor Hutchinson said. “With a record surplus in the last year fiscal year, we have the ability to provide financial relief and ensure our children can be protected in their schools.” Governor Hutchinson’s call consists of the following items: • Lower the top individual tax rate to 4.9%, retroactive to January 1, 2022, saving taxpayers $295 million in 2022; • Lower the corporate income tax rate to 5.3%, beginning January 1, 2023; • Create a $150 nonrefundable low- and middle-income tax credit, saving taxpayers $156.3 million in 2022;
August 10, 2022
•
Align Arkansas law with the federal depreciation schedule; • Transfer $50 million from the state surplus for the purpose of a school safety grant program, consistent with the recommendations of the Arkansas School Safety Commission. The above tax provisions will provide financial relief for Arkansans of all income levels. The alignment of Arkansas law with the federal depreciation schedule will also provide relief for business owners by accelerating the depreciation of their assets and allow for an easier calculation of their tax bill. The $50 million for a school safety grant program comes after the Arkansas School Safety Commission presented their interim report to Governor Hutchinson on August 2nd. This program will provide funding for school districts to increase security measures on their campuses. The Governor’s Call can be found at https://governor.arkansas. gov/images/uploads/proclamations/220805/.
LITTLE ROCK – This afternoon [August 5], the Senate Republican Caucus issued the below statement upon the Governor’s issuance of the special session call, which is set to begin next Tuesday, August 9. “We’re delighted as a Senate Republican Caucus to be working collectively toward real tax relief for all Arkansans. The legislation being proposed will provide an individual tax credit to hard working Arkansans and will advance the tax cuts we previously passed. This will lower our overall tax rate, while at the same time giving meaningful relief to job creators in Arkansas who are dealing with the repercussions of inflation. The people of Arkansas need relief from burdensome taxes, and we as the Senate Republican caucus are excited to work with our colleagues in the
A
House and our Governor next week to do just that. “Furthermore, with the start of the Arkansas school year just days away, it is imperative that we ensure the safety and security of our kids. To that end, we are looking forward to passage of $50,000,000 in grants that can be used across our state to secure our schools.” The call includes two items. The first piece of legislation will 1) accelerate the 2021 incomes tax cuts; 2) create an individual income tax credit of $150 per payer for the 2022 tax year; and 3) bring Arkansas’ Section 179 depreciation election in alignment with the Federal Section 179 election. The second piece of legislation will establish a $50 million grant program to secure Arkansas schools.
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Politics 7
August 10, 2022
Polk County municipal candidate filings for 2022
Name
Position
Date of Filing
City of Mena Seth Smith Stephanie Murr Kacie Rose NONE James Earl Turner Terri Neugent Stanley Craig Dwight Douglas Mary Alice Head Andy Brown Larry S. Stewart
Mayor City Clerk/Treasurer City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney City Council, Ward 1, Position 1 City Council, Ward 1, Position 2 City Council, Ward 1, Position 2 City Council, Ward 2, Position 1 City Council, Ward 2, Position 2 City Council, Ward 3, Position 1 City Council, Ward 3, Position 2
Town of Hatfield Linda Denton NONE Paige Self Larry Denton NONE NONE Diane Garcia
Mayor Recorder/Treasurer City Council, Position 1 City Council, Position 2 City Council, Position 3 City Council, Position 4 City Council, Position 5
Town of Cove Joan Headley NONE NONE NONE Boyd S. Smith NONE Darris Burk
Mayor Recorder/Treasurer City Council, Position 1 City Council, Position 2 City Council, Position 3 City Council, Position 4 City Council, Position 5
Town of Vandervoort Terisia Hartley Samantha Boyette Robert A. Hartley Jason Boyette Nicholas Phillips Brittany Phillips Rick McKenzie
Mayor Recorder/Treasurer Alderman, Position 1 Alderman, Position 2 Alderman, Position 3 Alderman, Position 4 Alderman, Position 5
8/3/22 8/3/22 8/8/22 8/5/22 8/3/22 8/9/22 8/3/22 8/4/22 8/3/22 8/5/22 8/4/22 8/3/22 8/4/22 8/4/22 8/3/22
Name
Position
Date of Filing
Town of Wickes Melinda Kight Tracy Morris Larry R. Watkins Linda Gillaspy Mary Ferguson Maricela Avila Katherine Chambers
Mayor Recorder/Treasurer Alderman Position 1 Alderman Position 2 Alderman Position 3 Alderman Position 4 Alderman Position 5
8/3/22 8/3/22 8/3/22 8/3/22 8/3/22 8/3/22 8/3/22
Town of Grannis Dwight Billings Barbara Frachiseur NONE Chris Frachiseur Deborah K Neal Billy Richardson Bryce Brower
Mayor Recorder/Treasurer Alderman, Position 1 Alderman, Position 2 Alderman, Position 3 Alderman, Position 4 Alderman, Position 5
8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22
NOTICE - Final date for filing is Wednesday, August 10. This list was accurate as of the close of the morning of Tuesday, August 9, 2022. Voting for municipal candidates will take place on the general election ballot November 8, and throughout early voting.
8/3/22 8/3/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22 8/5/22
(Photo by Cyrus Crossan on Unsplash)
8 Obituaries Lawrence “Larry” Barsic
Mr. Lawrence “Larry” Barsic, 69, of Mena passed away August 3, 2022. He was born to Nicholas and Josephine Barsic on June 17, 1953, in Cleveland, Ohio. He worked at US Motors up until his retirement and was well known for working on guns, motorcycles (specifically the Harley Davidson Knuckleheads), and his terrible (but hilarious) “dad” jokes. The thing he loved more than motorcycles was his family and his close friends. Larry was a member of the United Methodist Church of Mena. Larry is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Betty “Jeannie” Barsic; two brothers; Bob and Nick Barsic; five sons, Cole Barsic, Duel James “Jay” Foreman, Daniel Rex “Danny” Foreman, Dennis John “Johnny” Foreman, and David Eugene Foreman; one daughter, Holly Barsic; 11 grandchildren, Hailey, Trey, Cattlyn, Jordan, Ashley, Daniel, Misty, Brian, Dusty, Shonda, and Donna; 30 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Larry is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Richard Barsic; one sister Linda Barsic. Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, August 6, 2022, at the United Methodist Church in Mena. Interment will be at Old Dallas Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 5, 2022, from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
August 10, 2022
Lucille Rose Fagan
Lucille Rose Fagan, age 94, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away peacefully Friday, July 29th, 2022. Lucille was born in Ellington, Connecticut, to John McCormick and Susan Davis McCormick on February 6th, 1928. She was a very elegant woman. She loved to read, play cards, and Scrabble. During her time as a military wife, she also spent time living in Germany. Lucille was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Wayne Fagan; one brother, George; four sisters, Betty, Anne, Mary, and Ruth; one grandchild, Liam Fagan. Lucille is survived by her sisterin-law, Ellen Fagan of Kennybunkport, ME; three sons, Tim Fagan and his wife Wanda of Mena, AR, Kevin Fagan and his wife Nancy of Longmeadow, MA, John Fagan of Mena, AR; 10 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Mass will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, AR on September 10th, 2022, at 5 pm. Lucille’s ashes will be reunited with her beloved husband, Wayne, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
Fred Ernest Embry
Mr. Fred Ernest Embry, age 83, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, July 29, 2022, in Waldron, Arkansas.
He was born June 20, 1939, in Cherry Hill, Arkansas, to Fred B. Embry and Alene Wimberly. Mr. Embry owned and operated a gas station in Cherry Hill for many years, was a Licensed Practical Nurse and worked in numerous nursing homes for 20 years. He served his country in the United States Air Force and was a member of First Freewill Baptist church in Mena. He was a loving husband and father and will be dearly missed by all. Fred is survived by his son, Shane Embry and wife Tracy of Anna, Texas; daughter, Denise Vines and husband Ronnie of Odgen, Arkansas; grandchildren, Aaron Embry, Cole Embry and Ashley Slater and husband Matt; and great-grandson, Caden Slater. He was preceded in death by his wife Claudene Elizabeth Embry and his parents Fred and Alene Wimberly. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 5, 2022, at First Freewill Baptist Church in Mena with Brother Donnie Jewell officiating. Interment will follow at Cherry Hill Cemetery in Cherry Hill, Arkansas, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation is general. Pallbearers will be Wendal Henry, Gary Threlkill, Michael Hoover, Mike Shogren, Terry Davis, and Jr. Carter. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jason Sharp, Robb Sharp, David Allan and Robert (Bob) Turner. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Randall K. Turner
Mr. Randall K. Turner, 77, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Satur-
day, August 6, 2022, at his home in Mena. He was born January 4, 1945, in Mena, Arkansas, to the late Travis “Tige” Turner and the late Juanita Harris Turner. Randy, as he was known by all, married the love of his live, Rita Ann Farmer on November 13, 1970. They had 43 happy years together until her passing on August 28, 2013. He worked in the family’s tire business for 45 years, was a member of the Mena Fire Department for 38 years and was in the Arkansas National Guard. Randy enjoyed collecting antique toys, particularly railroad trains and villages. He loved pets and leaves behind his beloved dogs and cats. Randy enjoyed a good visit and was always quick with a smile and a friendly hello. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tige and Juanita Turner, and his grandparents, Ode and Ova Turner and Tutt and Azzie Harris. He is survived by his caretaker, Tommie Jo Farmer and a host of friends. A special thank you goes out to his friends at the Mena Fire Department who ceaselessly came by, helped care for and checked on Randy during his illness. Graveside services will be Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena with Al Hadaway officiating. Visitation will be general. Services are entrusted to the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Pallbearers are Steve Egger, Charles Hankins, Tom Hairston, R.D. Gann, Steve McMellon and Randy Horton. Honorary Pallbearers will be other members of the Mena Fire Department. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
August 10, 2022
News 9
Bike trails and Tapley Park dominate Mena A&P meeting By Ethan Nahté
amount coming in under $500. Lance said that the dirt work is The regular session of the Mena finished on the expansion field for Advertising & Promotion Com- baseball. They are now ready to bemission (A&P) met August 2 at ing fencing. He discussed the miMena City Hall. There were several items on the agenda, with Item VI (A) regarding the bike trails taking approximately 25 minutes of the 70-minute meeting. An excerpt of the award letter, provided by A&P Chair Rick Chrisman stated, ““Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has approved your application for $275,000 EDA investment to support the Ward Lake Trails at Mena, Arkansas.” The majority of the discussion revolved around advertising and receiving accurate bids for the project. It was also mentioned that Mayor Seth Smith will be reporting on nor difference in the quotes for the what Western Arkansas Planning fencing from companies located & Development District (WAPDD) in North Little Rock and Bryant, will be doing related to the project. noting that both require pick-up Chrisman stated that WAPDD may as they do not offer delivery. A&P be providing the administration of approved, allowing Lance to choose the grant. whichever company he wanted to Item IV was parks and recre- use, with Bryant being his preferation director Phillip Lance’s re- ence due to distance. The project port on Tapley Park. Lance an- will also require the purchase of nounced that registration for the Quikcrete for setting the posts. upcoming fall soccer season is Grass seed was next on the agenopen online at tapleysports.com/. da, coming in at $440. Due to the Click on the registration button little bit of rain, the grass has actualand choose the fall soccer option. ly begun growing. Forms will also be available at area Gravel is also needed to fill in schools when they open August 22. some low spots in the parking area He also notified A&P that the soc- that tends to stay wet. Currently, the cer balls he’ll be ordering are $4.50 area is just filled in with shale. The plus tax for each ball, which is a gravel will help complete the patchprice increase from $3.50 plus tax. It ing. was approved by the A&P with the Lance said that the pool will only
be open for about another month. A&P administrator Pasha Watson gave her report for Item V. After some discussion of moving some line items for the budget, board
member Terri Neugent stated that the numbers for lodging were a little lower than this time last year, but that there wasn’t much difference. The board believed some of that could be due to higher gas prices and the heat. While discussing local restaurants, Watson announced that Rieki Hibachi has a new owner. The new Sassy Squatch had their sign placed last week. Fourteen cases of new promotional brochures arrived. Like everything else, the price to have them printed has escalated from $301 to $460 for the exact same product and order. Watson will compare rates from other printers. There was discussion on finding a new source for the video and photography to capture and edit
events to promote Mena, including a licensed drone operator/videographer. Watson stated that there is a company putting together a demo for their video production. The contract with the previous company, 385 Events, has run out. Watson is also awaiting a new media kit from CJRW. In new business, under Item VII (A), research will be conducted regarding pickle ball courts. Using tennis courts can work for the growing sport, but it’s problematic if people want to play tennis while others are playing pickle ball. A&P is looking into having separate courts at Tapley Park. Board member Scott Vacca was chosen to gather information (e.g. court size, nets, equipment, etc.). Item VII (B) was the introduction of Jason Moore of Jerry’s Fish Camp as a candidate to fill the vacant A&P commission seat. The vote was unanimous to accept Moore as part of the commission. Item VIII mentioned the city council meeting on Tuesday, August 9; the Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run, August 26-28; the next regularly scheduled A&P meeting, Sept. 6 at 5:30 p.m. at Mena City Hall.
10 Faith By Richie Lawry
The tour bus drove down the narrow cobblestone street and stopped in front of an old church. Bernd, our tour guide, told us that the church was St. Augustine’s Church, and it was built over 700 years ago. In 1277 Augustinian Hermits started to build St. Augustine’s Church and the monastery complex. He said, “We will be spending the weekend inside the historic walls and rooms in which monks, including Martin Luther, once lived and prayed.” Our tour had arranged for us to stay at the Augustinerkloster in Erfurt, Germany. It’s a working Lutheran church and cloister that is used as a conference center and has 51 rooms for visitors. As I walked towards our room, I soaked in the history of the place and tried to imagine what it would have been like to live here as a monk over 500 years ago. After settling into the room, I headed out to explore the old town of Erfurt. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, but no one knows precisely how old the town is. The earliest written records of Erfurt were from 742 A.D., when a diocese was established there. German writer Arnold Zweig described Erfurt’s charming old quarter as a “picture book of German history.” Somehow, the medieval city center emerged relatively unscathed from World War II, after which it became stuck in the strange cocoon of East German communism for half a century. Because of this, Erfurt has a surprising time-capsule quality. As I walked through the jumble of narrow alleys and open squares, I tried to visualize the same places during medieval times. I was struck by the picturesque beauty of the Krämerbrücke, or merchants bridge. It’s the oldest secular building in town and the longest inhabited bridge in Europe. Half-timbered houses flank a beautiful cobblestone street. The bridge was constructed in 1325, though most of its houses date to the 15th century. My walk through Erfurt culminated in the vast Cathedral Square, dominated by two old churches. As I sat down and soaked
August 10, 2022
An Arkie’s Faith
Meeting Brigitte Graykastle up the scene. The sounds of a busy German Ukrainian and Polish music. The accorsquare enveloped me. Conversations sur- dion is the perfect instrument to accomrounded me as people ate and socialized pany French Gypsy Jazz, a genre of music that I have at the many recently open-air become restaurants obsessed arou nd with. To the plaza. listen to Children this musquealed sic in a with demedieval light while German they played. town was As I sat on surreal. I a bench listened to watching her play couples and sing in quietly conFrench for versing and the next teenagers half hour. congregatWhen she ing nearby, finished talking with playing, I youthful exwalked up uberance, I to her to could hear strains of Brigitte busking in Erfurt, Germany. (Photo by Richie Lawry) purchase a CD. When an accordiI spoke to her in English, she excitedly on off in the distance. I stood and started walking towards the started talking to me. Her name was Brisound of the accordion. It was coming from gitte, and she was born in Bavaria. She inthe other side of the square. As I followed troduced me to the man sitting at the other the sound, it took me down a street just café table. He was her cousin, and she was off the square. I went to a small stone pas- in Erfurt to visit him. It was only the secsageway between two streets. There against ond time in her life that she had seen him. the stone wall, stood a woman playing the Growing up, they had never seen each othaccordion. As I walked into the corridor, I er because she lived in West Germany, and recognized the song. She was playing “La he lived in East Germany. When I told Brigitte that my wife played Vie En Rose,” one of my favorite songs. Directly across from her were two small café the accordion when she was younger betables. One was empty, so I sat down to lis- cause her father wanted her to, Brigitte said to me that she had the same experience. ten. Nothing surprised me anymore about Growing up in Bavaria, her father wanted street musicians in Germany. I had heard her to play the accordion so she could play German, English, Italian, French, Spanish, traditional Bavarian music. But Brigitte
Joke of the Week:
I told my wife that she needed to embrace her mistakes. So, she hugged me.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse never cared for the music and put down the accordion as soon as she left home. She set out to travel the world and ended up in Scotland. Brigitte told me, “It was in Scotland that I discovered my love and passion for music and started playing the accordion again.” She continued, “The street is the most beautiful stage in the world, and I’ve been playing my way through the streets and alleys of this world for 28 years now.” As I was ready to leave, I asked for a photo of us together. I handed my phone to Brigitte’s cousin and posed for a photo with her. Brigitte told him to take a video instead, and she began singing to me. It seemed unreal to hear her sing one of my favorite Scottish songs by Dougie McLean. “But let me tell you that I love you, that I think about you all the time. Caledonia you’re calling me and now I’m going home. But if I should become a stranger, you know that it would make me more than sad. Caledonia’s been everything I’ve ever had.” As I walked back to my room at the monastery, I thought about how often our first impressions of people are incorrect or incomplete. As I listened to Brigitte play French chansons in a passageway in a medieval German town, I would have never guessed that her musical passion was Scottish folk songs, or that her family was torn apart by division of Germany after World War II. Gentle Reader, judging other people based on appearance alone can become second nature to most of us, even when we don’t mean to. It can often come down to a thing we all have called unconscious bias, meaning our brains make snap judgments about people without us even noticing. But Christians shouldn’t judge a person by their exterior because we don’t know their story. “The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (NLT) Don’t judge people on their outward appearance. You might be surprised who they really are when you get to know them. Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
August 10, 2022
News 11
Polk County Fair tips for exhibiting flowers and foliage
Tips for selecting cut flowers: 1. Select the proper number of blooms or stems as required for each class. 2. All cut flowers should have foliage attached to their stems unless they grow naturally on a stalk. 3. Flower specimens look better if there is no foliage below the water. 4. Flowers look and stand up better if they are displayed in a container with a narrow opening. 5. Select flowers with no disease or insect damage to petals and foliage. Tips for cutting: 1. Cut flowers with a sharp knife or scissors. 2. Cut stems on a slant to enable flowers to absorb water.
Cut stems longer than required at first. 4. The next day, re-cut stems indoors under water at a 45-degree angle. 3.
Tips for exhibiting: 1. Cut stem underwater to prevent air from entering the stem and interfering with the water uptake. Place only an inch or so of the stem under water to cut it. 2. With the exception of large and/or heavy blooms needing extra support, no flower should rest on the neck of the container. 3. Stem length should be long enough to support and show off the flower and foliage to their best advantages above the container
There are two new categories this year.
Flower Arrangements: • These are flowers and or foliage arranged in containers using wet foam for live flower arrangements and dry foam for dry arrangements.
Flower Bouquets: • These are a group or bunch of live flowers and/or foliage placed in a vase with water. Dry Flowers in vase with no water is also a Flower Bouquet
12 Travel
FUN DAY continued from page 1
Story and Photos by Ethan Nahté The inaugural Saturday Fun Day at the Forest Heritage Center was considered a relative success by staff, woodworking demonstrators, and other participants who showed off their wares and skills, as well as educated the attendees. Brianna Teel, a Forest Heritage Center (FHC) museum educator and interpreter, estimated that somewhere between 300-500 people enjoyed all the activities, animals and woodcarving exhibits on Saturday. Visitors from several states, including a few Arkansans from Polk and Sevier counties, were in attendance in Beavers Bend State Park on the south end of Broken Bow Lake. The area is considered “The Wood Art Capital of Oklahoma,” located right outside of Hochatown and not far from the state line. Teel said, “It was an experiment on my part.” FHC has had other Saturday events that were themed events primarily to coincide with holidays. “Each month has a different theme. I couldn’t figure out what to do for August, so I decided to get a few community members
August 10, 2022
First Saturday event at Forest Heritage Center deemed a success together and try this out. I just wanted it to be a casual day where the community gathered.” Teel and other museum employees thought the day went well enough that they are consi deri ng doing more of the Fun Day events, possibly once a quarter. The events, hiking trail, and the museum tour are free. Parking is $10 for a 24-hour period, but that money goes back into the museum to help with things such as maintenance and upkeep, which they do a
fine job. The museum has several displays and galleries showcasing a history of wood, wood usage and 14 woodworking dioramas and displays painted by Harry Rossoll, creator of Smokey Bear. There are many spectacular carvings, ranging from animals and American Indians of the region, to logging equipment, furniture, household items and artistic pieces such as the large burl in the Echinata Gallery, part of Quintus Herron’s outstanding collection of 600-plus pieces. There were two woodworkers with lathes set up and doing demonstrations. Chris Wood was busy creating a new bowl. Roger Tipton was having fun making colorful tops to give away to children. Between them, they had beautiful collection of decorative bowls, pens, wild game calls, keychains and more, made from a wide variety of wood species. No two pieces were alike. Teel was busy handing out free loblolly saplings ranging from two months old to t w o years o l d , along with literature on the trees and how to plant and care for the pines. The Hochatown Rescue Center and Petting Zoo was on hand, allowing attendees to hold a coon kit, a baby opossum, a juvenile skunk, which was in a cage with a kitten (Pepé and Penelope anyone?), and a
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse fledgling mockingbird. They educated people on animals and what their facility does to help those in need. Leah Green, a museum assistant from the Museum of the Red River in Idabel, had a fun table set up to allow kids (and adults) to stomp dinosaur toys through clay and make foot and body imprints that would dry for a lesson in paleontology. Wayward Wind Soap and Massage Co. had a very friendly goat on hand for petting, along with artisans and their handcrafted goat milk soap. Two Queen Bees Honey was also on hand, selling a variety of dark and light honey. Carla Queen said, “We find swarms of bees. We have 65 hives. We’ve been doing it about two years. My husband [Brad Queen] loved it and kept getting more hives. We’re having to expand. We have a barn we’re converting to a honey house. This is considerably bigger than I thought we would ever have. I told him that if we get any more hives, we will have to consider selling it commercially.” Queen explained the difference in the color of the seasonal honey. “Flowers and clover are your spring. Privet hedge is your early spring. That’s their big nectar flow. After it quits blooming, we harvest our spring. We have dry summers, so it’s not like some other areas of the United States. Then we have our fall, the big nectar flows off the goldenrod.” Living historian Jesse Phipps was sweating it out in the heat with a wool military jacket and gear, discussing the Civil War, focusing on how it was fought throughout the Kiamichi Mountains.
See FUN DAY continued on page 13
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
August 10, 2022 FUN DAY continued from page 12
He has been reenacting for several years. “There are so many different ideologies that culminated into the American Civil War. I tried to cover, specifically, calvary, and what their role was in Indian Territory, which is now eastern Oklahoma. That included antebellum periods like the Mexican-American War through the Civil War where cavalry was extremely active in this area. …With our terrain and foliage, it was really hard for infantry bodies, artillery or wagon trains to move around and collect supplies from the land. Calvary was much more nimble and able to get over the mountain ranges faster.” Phipps said, “I
am totally self-taught. History has been a passion of mine, my whole life.” Phipps had a table filled with uniforms; replica weapons, both sabers and firearms; and an authentic shotgun to display. “I have a double-barrel .12-gauge black powder shotgun. That gun is over 160 years old.” His docile mare, Chivas, was saddled with supplies that would be common for calvary to carry. Despite only having a single eye, Phipps said that during reenactments, she is a true war horse. “She gets mean in combat. She doesn’t like whoever I’m fighting. When the cannons go off and we start running around the battlefield, she gets pretty hyped up.” The quarter horse is approximately 15. Phipps has had her around 10 years or longer. “She’s really seasoned. Cannon fire doesn’t bother her as far as spooking her. When she gets on the field, she knows what she’s there for and ready for it. Having a single eye doesn’t bother her at all. She was blind in one eye ever since we got
Travel 13 Visitors will find plenty to do at the FHC. They’re open year-round from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Teel said the Woodcutting Carnival on September 3 is going to be pretty intense. “We’ll have 10 to 12 woodturners bringing all their stuff. Every single one of them will be doing a different type of demonstration.” She has tried her own hand at woodturning and enjoying it, despite slicing open her finger one evening while turning green wood. “I have a healthy respect and a healthy fear of the lathe. I still do it,” she said with a laugh. Find out more about their events at facebook.com/forestheritagecenter/ or click on the Forest Heritage Center at https://ag.ok.gov/outreach-and-education/.
her. She’s a retired trick riding and mounted shooting horse. A couple of years ago, she poked something in it… it got infected. The vet cut it out and sewed it up.”
14 Community
Pulse
August 10, 2022
Fair photography submissions
Submitted by Bridgett Martin
Just a reminder from the Polk County Extension Office: Photography entries in the Polk County Fair must be an 8-inch by 10-inch photograph mounted on an 11-inch by 14-inch mat with no frame. There will be no mats available at the fair this year, and this must be done ahead of time to expedite the process of taking in entries. Art entries must be mounted, matted or framed and wired for hanging—no saw tooth hangers. Framing and glass are optional. The art and photography exhibits are one of the largest exhibits at the fair. Please be sure that your exhibits are properly mounted and framed. The Extension Office is urging everyone to print photos and purchase mat boards in sufficient time to get their photos ready for entry. Check in at the fair can be expedited this year by using the online registration
THE POLK COUNTY
Around Town The Polk County Democratic Party will have their The Beans and Jeans fundraiser of August 15, from 6 - 9 p.m. at the Daisy Room behind Janssen Avenue Florist & Gifts, 800 Janssen Ave. Chris Jones will be our main speaker. Everybody is invited to the Beans & Jeans. 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. The Polk County Growth & Advancement Committee meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at The Ouachitas located at 821 Mena Street. All interested community members are invited to attend. 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.
process that is open until August 17. The online registration link is http:polkar. fairwire.com/.
Free summer lunch program for all ages, every Tuesday through August 16 at Janssen Park pavilion from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sponsored by Mena Presbyterian Church. 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
The Polk County Republican Committee meeting will be held Monday, August 15. The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the Polk County Library. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. The Center will also start having an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459. 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, 8:00 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend. 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.
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.
The First United Methodist Church in Mena is doing a project to help the Humane Society of the Ouachitas. If you would like to help with “The Dog and Cat Days of Summer” project, drop off a bag or two of dry dog or cat food at the church, Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. before August 7th.
The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4 - 6 p.m., located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call (479) 437-4018.
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.
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.
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!
Open House for Louise Durham Elementary is Aug. 11, from 4 – 8 p.m. We are excited to meet everyone. We encourage all parents and children to attend!
Outdoors 15
THE POLK COUNTY
August 10, 2022 Pulse Turkey survey through AGFC By Patrick Massey The break in triple-digit temperatures may inspire many outdoors enthusiasts to pick up their hiking, cycling and camping adventures, and many hunters’ minds already are centered around improvements they can make in their favorite hunting location or scouting a new piece of public land for fall. If you happen to scare up a covey of quail or see a turkey during your adventures, the
AGFC wants to know. Turkey and quail sightings can both be entered into the AGFC’s Annual Wild Turkey and Quail Population Survey, which is available via website at www.agfc. com/turkeysurvey or through the AGFC’s smartphone app. The (Ethan Nahté/Pulse) AGFC app can be downloaded for Apple or Android. In addition to helping biologists gauge the
See TURKEY continued on page 18
Janice Powell was the sixth and final winner of The Dog Days of Summer Cool Down 2022 giveaway promotion. Powell signed up at Janssen Avenue Florist/Merle Norman Cosmetics. She won a 4-pack of tickets to Magic Springs Theme & Water Park. Thank you to all of our advertisers and to all who entered.
Holly Springs Real Estate
1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953
479-394-4200
hollyspringsrealestate.com
16 News
August 10, 2022
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
American Legion Riders inviting new members
By Ethan Nahté
American Legion Post 18, based in Mena, Arkansas, announced that the American Legion Riders (ALR) have started a new charter. The ALR is formed to promote the aims and purposes of the American Legion as a family-oriented motorcycling activity for members of the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary, and The Sons of the American Legion. Members of the ALR avoid any perception of being a motorcycle or “biker” club or gang. Rather, the focus of membership is for the enjoyment of motorcycles and comradeship, and furthering Legion programs in the community. To become an ALR member, you must be a veteran who was honor-
(Photos courtesy of Patrick Phillips) ably discharged. The organization Legion. The membership fee will be is for veterans and their families, as announced during the new charter well as The Sons of the American announcement. The ALR seeks to improve the public’s perception of the motorcycling
STAY ALERT. STAY INFORMED. STAY SAFE. Some severe weather events are predictable, others may happen with little or no warning. Keep yourself and your family safe and healthy in any weather emergency by visiting the CDC Natural Disasters and Severe Weather information site.
www.cdc.gov/disasters/ Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve
515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M
community by promoting the honorable nature of service to one’s community, state and nation through the sport of motorcycling. The organization does a lot of fundraising rides such as poker runs, the Talimena Run Rally, and other motorcycle rallies. They raise funds for community purposes, especially those supporting veterans. If you are a veteran who owns a motorcycle, and would be interested, call commander Bill Lawson at 479437-4102. The American Legion monthly meeting held August 9, had a presentation of the new charter by commander Patrick Phillips and other ALR representatives from Little Rock, Mount Ida and Hot Springs. If you missed it, you can catch the next meeting at 3253 Highway 71 North on Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. You can also find out more at Legion.org/riders.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 17
August 10, 2022
08.10.22
08.10.22
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 08.03.22
A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Do you have room in your heart and home for a shelter pet?
Meet Cheeto!
You will love Cheeto! This handsome boy is good with other cats and is litter box trained. He is shy at first and likes to play hide and seek. Celebrate his birthday in May (05/18/2018). Cheeto would love some kitty snacks and you can enjoy some Cheetos at his birthday party! If you love orange striped tabbies, then Cheeto is the kitty for you! 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 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
18 Classifieds
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
August 10, 2022
TURKEY continued from page 15
CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T0810
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. T0921
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. T0831
Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0831
Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0817
- LEGAL NOTICE -
PUBLIC NOTICE The following items from Polk County will be sold to the highest bidder at a public auction held at 2101 Finks Street in Mena, Arkansas on Saturday August 13th, 2022 starting at 10:00 AM.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Road Department items: Approximately 25-30 assorted used plastic culverts, 7000 watt Generac enclosed natural gas electric generator and controls, several used truck tires, several large steel pipe cut-offs, and other misc. Sheriff’s Department items: 2006 Nissan 4-door Altima, 1999 Ford 350 flatbed truck, 2003 Mazda Tribute, 2001 Ford F150 extended cab truck.
- YARD SALE Garage Sale, 124 State Rd. 980 (Airport Road, A-Frame house), August 13. New things: Misc. household items, pictures, chairs, red hutch Kohler brown elongated commode, 2 bone-colored bathroom sinks, Pilates machine, electric guitars & cases, trobone, books, DVDs & much more. T0810 Multi-family carport sale Clothing, furniture, electronics, etc. 713 Ridge Ave. in Mena, Friday, August 12 - Sunday, August 14, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. T0810
- FOR RENT 1 BR & 2 BR Houses for rent in Mena. Remodeled and sanitized. Call (479) 243-5292 or (479) 216-4039 T0810
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hatch, participating in the survey can guide future habitat work on public and private land, particularly with surveys to the quail response. In a press release, Jeremy Wood, AGFC Turkey Program coordinator, said the data shared in the survey will be generalized across counties or regions. So hunters or other observers providing specific coordinates can submit without fear of giving away their personal hotspot. “I’m a turkey hunter, too, and I know how quiet you need to be to keep a good place a secret,” Wood said. “We only require and share location data at a county level, but the more specific location information people are willing to provide, the better it can be used to focus our conservation efforts.” Wood added that increased data on turkey information can show biologists possible gaps where good habitat may exist but the birds have not found their way to make the best use of it. The survey is fast and easy to complete and can go a long way towards helping turkey and quail populations in Arkansas. “The data we’ve collected so far through the survey is a good start, but only 240-250 participants contribute to the effort, and a good number of those are employees of the AGFC and other agencies who are reporting while doing work in other capacities,” Wood said. “That’s less than one percent of current estimates of turkey hunters in Arkansas. If we could get even one percent (more would be better) of our hunters to report quail and turkeys they see from June through August, it would boost our data tremendously. It only takes a minute or two to report through your phone or computer, and it will make a big difference to our conservation efforts.”
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
August 10, 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 August 1, 2022 Whitney Reynolds, 32 of Mena was arrested on two Felony Failure to Appear Warrants. Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a physical altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. August 2, 2022 No reports. August 3, 2022 Anastasia Jennings, 38 of Waldron was arrested on Felony Warrants for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia as well as a Body Attachment Warrant. Shealeena Phillips, 37 of Wickes was arrested on a Misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrant as well as a Drug Court Sanction. Kenneth Chaney, 28 of Mena was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole on a Felony Warrant for Theft of Property. Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to Interference with Child Custody. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.
August 4, 2022 Chad Shaffer, 49 of Fort Smith was arrested on a Felony Warrant for 2nd Degree Forgery. August 5, 2022 No reports. August 6, 2022 No reports. August 7, 2022 Deputies responded to a report of Terroristic Threatening. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. A traffic stop near Hatfield led to the arrest of Roscoe Cline on charges of Expired Tags, Driving on a Suspended License, No Proof of Insurance and a Warrant for Harassment. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 1 vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated Inmates, with 10 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORTS July 31 A report of criminal mischief was taken from The Look Salon. Michael Harvey, 48, was served with a warrant at the county jail.
A report of disorderly conduct was taken at a residence on Evans Circle. Jeremiah Kahn, 37, was charged with Assault, Endangering the Welfare of a Minor, Disorderly Conduct, and Public Intoxication after a traffic accident on Highway 71. A report of breaking or entering and criminal mischief was taken at a residence on Hamilton Avenue.
Police 19 charged with Possession of Marijuana, No Liability Insurance, and No Vehicle Insurance, and Jimmy Craddock, 18, was charged with Possession of Marijuana at Janssen Park. August 5 A report of disorderly conduct was taken at a residence on Bonner Circle.
August 1 August 6 A report of theft was taken at a Chad Thornton, 31, was served residence on Rogers Street. with a warrant after a traffic stop on Alexander Cernoga, 34, was Highway 71. charged with Disorderly Conduct at Sonic.
HHS vice principal trial set
August 2 Jamie May, 40, was served with a warrant at Phillips 66. Michael Williams, 40, was served with a warrant at the county jail. Brandon Abernathy, 31, was served with a warrant at the court house. Joy Reed, 34, was served with eleven warrants at the court house. A report of criminal trespass was taken at a residence on 10th Street. August 3 A report of theft was taken at a residence on Gildin Avenue. A report of battery was taken on Dallas Avenue. Jason Rosson, 40, was served with a warrant at the county jail. August 4 A report of theft was taken at a residence on Ouachita Circle. A report of a missing person was taken at a residence on Carder Avenue. Donavan Craddock, 22, was
By Patrick Massey HORATIO – A November trial date has been set for a former Horatio High School administrator charged earlier this year for allegedly maintaining a sexual relationship with a student. According to records within the Sevier County Circuit Court, 41-year-old Labrada Vann is set to appear before a jury trial on Nov. 2 if she maintains her current not-guilty plea. Vann was arrested April 8 following an investigation by the Sevier County Sheriff ’s Office this past spring. Vann was employed as vice principal for Horatio High School. According to the Sevier County Sheriff ’s Office, investigators were contacted by the Arkansas Crimes Against Children Hotline on April 4 in reference to a possible inappropriate relationship between Vann and a student. The sheriff ’s office then began an investigation into the allegations. The sheriff ’s office stated in a press release that information developed and an arrest warrant against Vann issued. Vann posted a $100,000 bond following her arraignment. Upon a conviction, the charge of first degree sexual assault carries a prison sentence of six to 30 years.
20 News
Due to reoccurring medical issues, I will need to step down as Coordinator for Polk County Toys for Tots program for 2023 and beyond. Without a certified Coordinator the Toys for Tots program in Polk County will not be able to continue. We are currently seeking an individual and/or organization that would like to volunteer and assume the responsibilities of continuing this rewarding program. The individual selected will receive full training and certification from the National Toys for Tots foundation. This training is done over a 4-day period at a facility near Washington, D.C. in September of 2023. All
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August 10, 2022
Toys for Tots coordinator stepping down Submitted by Edward Anderson
THE POLK COUNTY
travel expenses are paid. I will also be available locally to assist. The primary goal of Marine Toys for Tots is, through the gift of a new toy, help bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to America’s less fortunate children. The Polk County Toys for Tots program has typically provided Christmas joy to 500+ less fortunate children every year. Individuals or organizations interested must have access to the internet and submit to a thorough background check. If interested in becoming involved with this very rewarding opportunity, you can contact Edward Anderson at: tftmenaar@gmail.com, or call 479-469-9235
Hogspore News: Punkin is mad at Clet
By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson
I pulled a Jimmy Suspenders the other day, and now Punkin is mad at me. I figured I was too wise and smart to ever make that kinda mistake, but I’m only human. Punkin quickly pointed out that I wasn’t. I can’t tell you what I said, but apparently, she didn’t take it as a joke. Course, I apologized, but she’s not gonna forget it for a while. I just gotta be extra nice and polite. One day she will say to herself, “Oh well, I coulda done worse, and there’s no way I’m breaking in a new one.” Mumford Pickens has a bit of American (Central), history trivia to report this week. The Maya lived in Central America since 1800 B.C, but I thought it was more like 1850 B.C. Their civilization collapsed sometime from 800 A.D. to 1000 A.D. Nobody really knows, cause they didn’t keep records of eviction notices back then. You might be wondering, “How do you
know they didn’t preserve them? Maybe they were lost.” I know because one of the ancient stone engravings found said, “We don’t keep records of evictions.” The real story: The Mayan civilization died out due to the harsh homeowner’s association rules. Millions of Mayans are still living in Central America. There’s even Mayans all over the world, ‘cept in Washington, D.C. Morton Trubletoof has been doing some thinking. We warned him not to, but he still tries. His latest thoughts are, “If I didn’t have anything to think about, then I would think about why I don’t have anything to think about… I guess.” Here’s advice from Warden Thomas of the state prison for new prisoners. “If you’re doing life without parole, you don’t need to bring a calendar.” It’s National Breast Feeding Month. Take a baby to dinner. Contact at Bobsimpson1947@yahoo. com. You know you wanna.
Drought declaration could provide emergency loans to Polk County farmers By Patrick Massey LITTLE ROCK – Farmers and ranchers in Polk County may be eligible for emergency loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture after a recent drought disaster declaration in Arkansas. A total of 20 Arkansas counties were listed under the drought disaster declaration issued by the USDA. The primary eligible county within the region is Sevi-
er. As a neighboring county, farmers and ranchers in Polk are able to apply for the federal emergency loan program. Both Pike and Howard Counties are also listed as “contiguous” counties in the declaration, meaning producers residing in these areas may also apply. The Emergency loan program is triggered when a natural disaster is designated by the Secretary of Agriculture or a natural disaster or emergency
is declared by the President under the Stafford Act. These loans help producers who suffer qualifying farm related losses directly caused by the disaster in a county declared or designated as a primary disaster or quarantine area. Also, farmers located in counties that are contiguous to the declared, designated, or quarantined area may qualify for Emergency loans. The deadline to apply for an emergency loan is Dec. 8.
For more information as well as application forms, visit the Farm Service Agency website at www.fsa.usda.gov or contact your nearest Farm Service Agency. Residents of Polk and Sevier Counties can call the De Queen-based Farm Service Agency at (870) 584-3111. Residents of Howard Counties can call the Texarkana-based Farm Service Agency at (870) 330-3134.
THE POLK COUNTY
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Homegrown By Heroes Scholarship offered for agriculture training LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture and Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas are partnering to provide a $1,000 Homegrown by Heroes scholarship to military veterans and active military personnel to attend the Center for Arkansas Farm and Food’s Farm School, a comprehensive training program for new or beginning specialty crop producers. Funding for the scholarship is generously provided by Farm Credit. Applications are due September 1, 2022 and are available at: agriculture.arkansas.gov/arkansas-department-of-agriculture-programs/. The scholarships are affiliated with Homegrown By Heroes, an Arkansas Department of Agriculture program that helps farmer veterans market their local agricultural products by labeling them as veteran-produced. Learn more about Homegrown by Heroes and find products grown or made by military veterans at arkansasgrown. org/homegrown-by-heroes/. “We are proud to partner with Farm Credit to provide a scholarship for the men and women who have served our country in the military,” says Arkansas Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward. “Military service members have many skills that make them great candidates for successful careers in agriculture. It is an honor to provide this scholarship as a way of thanking them for their service to our country.”
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August 10, 2022
“The Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas appreciate the service Arkansas veterans and current military personnel give our country. We are pleased to help service members pursue careers in the agricultural field by sponsoring these scholarships,” said Brandon Haberer, CEO and president of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. The Center for Arkansas Farms and Food’s Farm School is an 11-month program at the Milo Shult Ag Research and Extension Center on the University of Arkansas campus in Fayetteville. The Farm School combines hands-on specialty crop farming with classes in production, business, and legal issues through classroom instruction and hands-on field activities. This comprehensive approach is specifically designed for beginning farmers of fruit, vegetable, flowers, and herbs who are interested in selling to local and regional markets. The 2023 program starts in January, with classes and farm work scheduled for approximately 20 hours per week, Monday through Thursday. The total cost of the program is $2,500. More information about the Farm School can be found at LearnToFarm.org. Selection of scholarship recipients will be based on career goals, goals for farm/ranch, experience, and financial need. Preference will be given to Arkansas Homegrown By Heroes members, but membership is not required.
Louise Durham to have bike riding lessons
Submitted Mark Hobson
by
Louise Durham Elementary is proud to announce that we have partnered with All Kids Bike and the Strider Education Foundation to bring bike riding instruction to our kindergarten and early first grade physical education classes. The Strider Education Foundation states, “We believe learning to ride a bike builds the confidence that changes everything! Our mission is to deliver superior balance Louise Durham Elementary teacher Robin Castor promoting the new bicycle program. bikes and a prov(Photo courtesy of Mena Public Schools) en Learn-To-Ride curriculum to schools and orgaThere are no fees and the bicynizations that wish to teach all cles come with safety equipment. individuals how to ride.”
22 Sports
August 10, 2022
THE POLK COUNTY
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Back to School Fashion: Top Sneaker Styles to Try
Football
8/16 - Mansfield @ Mena
Golf
8/16 - Mena @ Waldron
Soccer
08/12 - UARM @ Dallas College Mountain View (Men and Women) 08/16 - Dallas College Richland @ UARM (Women)
(StatePoint) As the last days of sum- variation is key. These on-trend shoes er options feature on-trend and seasonmer vacation are wrapping up, parents are available in high-, mid-, and low-top al colors to wear with skirts, dresses, start to check off their back to school versions, different platform heights, and jeans, and more. to-do lists, ensuring children are ready can feature canvas or leather uppers. What’s old is new again with Chuck for their first day. In addition to backKids enjoy the retro style of the Nike Taylor All Stars, which come in varying packs and classroom supplies, new shoes are always at the top of the shopping list to accommodate growing feet. According to Chris Otto, athletics merchandiser for national retailer Rack Room Shoes, this season’s sneakers include classic silhouettes, pops of colors, and multiple heights to offer comfort and style for returning students. “Shopping for shoes during the back to school season can be an exciting time for families,” says Otto. “With the range of options of brands, prints, Opt for one-stop-shopping to find popular sneaker styles for back to school. and platforms, it’s easy for parents to select footwear to com- Court Borough, which sports the clas- options. The high top lugged platform plement any school outfit, while help- sic swoosh logo and offers the perfect offers a new twist, with a rubber outsole ing children express their individual blend of style and comfort for those on to add height and modernity to this timeless favorite. personalities.” the go. Pops of Color, Neutral, Metallic and Here are the top back to school sneakElevation: From high-tops to lower trends to try this year: tops, and even platform versions that Prints: Patterned shoes are no longer Court Sneakers: Court-inspired take fashion to new levels, sneakers viewed as a statement accessory, but sneakers were designed to go with ev- with different heights are back in a sig- rather as a neutral that can be mixed erything, and when it comes to styling, nificant way. This year’s elevated sneak- and paired with any item in the closet. The Vans Ward sneaker adds a fun twist to its classic skater-style shoe with assorted prints, colors, and sizes for kids -- and parents, too. For one-stop-shopping during the back to school season, parents can visit the Athletic Shop at Rack Room Shoes in stores or online at rackroomshoes. com. Thanks to the abundance of fun and functional footwear trending for kids right now, families can be sure that students are sent to school prepared to look and feel their best.
THE POLK COUNTY
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August 10, 2022
Fair hoping for garden survivors
Submitted by Ann Glenn
Recent extreme heat and drought have taken a toll on all our gardens. Still, hopefully, there will be enough survivors to allow you to bring some exhibits to the Fair! Polk County Master Gardeners would like to emphasize the multitude of choices available in Department 111 - Horticulture. If some over-achiever were to enter in every class, that would be a total of 94 entries! •
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hibitor decides which class to When I was about 5 years old, group, certain entries will enter, and if he/she has enough I picked a fistful of flowers, judge the container as well as plants, could bring an entry in stuck them in a jelly jar, and the plant. These classes are: presented them to my mother. Dish Garden, Driftwood with all of them. However, only one That was a Bouquet. planting, English Trough Garentry in each class is allowed. She wasn’t pleased. She smacked den, Garden Art with planting, • Here are a couple of other my bottom and marched me and Terrarium. notes from the Rules. No bows over to apologize to our neigh- In addition to the sheer numor figurines are to be added to bor for picking her tulips from ber of classes for possible enthe front flower bed. When tries, take note of the variety plants and flowers. we got back home, she found of entries. The same selection Once a potted plant has been entered in the Polk County Fair, a lovely vase, and hummed to of plants could fit more than it cannot be entered again in herself as she rearranged the one class. For example, coleus subsequent years. tulips. She stuck the tallest in or caladiums might be Class the center and cut others to 13 or 14 (Foliage Plant taller The Polk County Fair Board or varying heights and placed than 12”, or shorter than 12”). them to the left and right of Or it might be Class 15 (Gar- the volunteer workers are not rethe center bloom. That was an den Art) or Class 16 (a Hang- sponsible for broken containers, Arrangement. ing Basket), or Class 19 or 20 or plants left after 3:00 Sunday af(Mixed Planting taller—or ternoon. • Fresh Cut Flowers has 47 difshorter—than 12”). The exferent classes, again ending with “any other fresh cut flower not listed above.” Each entry must be only one Bloom, Flower Head, Spray, Stem or Stalk per specimen. The exhibitor must supply the container, but the container will not be considered part of the entry.
Flower Bouquets & Arrangements has 21 classes: Dried, or Fresh, taller or shorter than 12”, miniature (shorter than 5”), single flower or mixed, wild flowers, fruit arrangement, vegetable arrangement, or, “any other flower bouquet not listed”, and “any other arrangement not listed above”. For Flower Bouquets and Arrangements, the container will be considered part of the entry and judged as one. You might be wondering, “What’s the difference between a Bouquet and an Arrangement, • anyway?”
Potted Plants has 26 classes, including “any other.” In this
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August 10, 2022
THE POLK COUNTY
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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