Polk County Pulse - August 2, 2023

Water projects making a big splash

The City of Mena has been generating some anticipation amongst residents, especially the kids. The delivery of the splash pad equipment arrived from the Canadian province of Quebec to Tapley Park on July 19.

On June 25, more splash pad equipment arrived for Janssen Park. Some of the features include a large snail and frog.

The goal is to have at least one of the splash pads operational before the end of this summer. The pad at Janssen will be installed where the old basketball court is located. The new basketball court will remain and still be for basketball. Mayor Seth

Smith does not have an estimated date. He replied, “I have not received a date from the construction crew on when they will be here. We have to use a certified installer for the

equipment for warranty and liability purposes.”

That’s not all. The parks department have the Boy and Girl fountain operational once more. Water exits the finial at the top of the umbrella

and cascades to the pool below. Smith said, “I did go up and look at the fountain when Wes [Kemp] called and it looked really good!”

The feedback on social media has been very positive for both the splash pads and the recently vandalized fountain, which has since been repaired.

Article and photos by Ethan Nahté

During the July Mena City Council meeting, airport manager Fred Ogden stated that during a storm, a bolt of lightning struck the airport runway approximately where aircraft touchdown, blasting out a section over a foot wide, making it dangerous for planes and their landing gear.

The damaged area was above a section where high voltage wires run beneath the asphalt.

Ogden supplied the following photos.

1168 Hwy 71S

Mena, AR 71953

Phone: 479-243-9600

Fax: 479-243-9603

Email: news@mypulsenews.com

KENA 104.1 - KQOR 105.3

MyPulseNews.com

Our Team:

Jamie Hammack - General Manager

Ethan Nahté - Production Manager/Editor

Patrick Massey - Contributing Reporter

John Russell - Graphic Design

Alexis James - Account Executive

Erica Watts - Account Executive

Curt Teasdale - Programmer /On-Air Personality

Ariel Varner - Receptionist/On-Air Personality

Distribution & Insertion Staff: Danielle Stewart, Chaz Welch, and Angela McCleskey

Summer has passed by quickly it seems and a new school year is upon us. All summer we have traveled through school zones not thinking about children in school. Easy to do as they are out trying to have vacations and a break from their studies.

It seems the warning lights flash all year, when they flash at all, and it is easy to ignore them and only pay attention during the school year. Bad habits are hard to break, but sometimes a reminder benefits most drivers and I hope to help raise awareness with this letter.

Want to share your opinion?

their shift. My sincere hope is that you share that concern as well.

I do not know who is tasked with the operation of the flashing lights at each end of the school zone, but please do your job and get them working correctly and timed to the coming and going of the school day, not the whole summer or weekends. A visual cue to warn drivers helps.

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. Letters do not reflect the viewpoints or opinions of Pulse Multi-Media.

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 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.

We have two dedicated professional SRO (School Resource Officers) Deputy Wagner and Deputy Stueart. Both can be seen before the start of the school day and after the completion of school. Their sole responsibility is the safety of our most precious, our children, our future. That is a task they both take seriously and you will see them rain or shine, hot or cold, every school day not just in the school among the students, but in harm’s way directing traffic. For that reason, I ask you to put down your electronic devices and pay attention to your driving and their directions. There is nothing so important in your life worth risking harm or death to any child or either of these Deputies that cannot wait until you are past the school zone and able to pull over and text or talk.

I know both of these Deputies and their families and pray they go home each day at the end of

Conversely, a signal that always flashes is a distraction and contributes to driver inattention and complacency.

On the subject of flashing lights, those on the big yellow school buses are meant to stop vehicles from passing as students load/unload. Please watch and stop for them. It’s not only the law but another responsibility that goes along with operating a motor vehicle.

If that is not enough to warrant compliance, wonder if your violation is on camera. So much of what we do is nowadays.

As always, I thank you for a forum to express my thoughts, though at times we may peacefully disagree.

With respect and kindest regards,

Ronald Goss, Mena, retired

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.

TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS

Email: NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM

Politics

As summer winds down and the excitement of a new school year builds, families across the state are planning for the added expense of back-to-school shopping.

This year, consumers are expected to spend close to $600 per child on clothes, shoes, and school supplies. That is why we want to take this time to remind you about the upcoming Arkansas Sales Tax Holiday.

This year, the sales tax holiday will begin at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, August 5, and will continue until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.

Act 757 of 2011 provides for a sales tax holiday in Arkansas during the first weekend of August each year. A sales tax holiday is a temporary period when state and local sales taxes are not collected or paid on the purchase of certain products.

Arkansas is one of 17 states that provides a sales tax holiday before the beginning of the school year.

Clothing less than $100 per item is exempt during the weekend, as well as clothing accessories less than $50

per item. Clothing accessories include handbags, cosmetics, jewelry, umbrellas, and more. Most school supplies, including book bags, binders, paper, crayons, pencils, and rulers, are also exempt.

In 2021, the General Assembly passed Act 944. The act expanded the sales tax holiday to include electronics. Examples include a calculator, desktop computer, cell phone, e-reader, computer mouse, laptop, monitor, printer, keyboard, and tablets. It does not include video game systems or televisions.

The sales tax holiday does include purchases made online.

The Arkansas Sales Tax Holiday benefits families, students, and local businesses. Providing financial relief to parents, the holiday is helping to ensure children have the necessary tools for learning.

We have posted a comprehensive list of eligible items and answers to frequently asked questions on our website www.arkansashouse.org.

The Arkansas Highway has held four events around the state to commemorate the 31 projects paid for with a half-cent sales tax approved by voters 10 years ago.

In 2012 Arkansas voters approved the sales tax increase and since then it has generated about $1.8 billion in revenue, which has paid for improvements to about 200 miles of highway.

The projects are collectively called the Connecting Arkansas Program, or CAP, and they represent one of the largest highway programs in the history of the state.

In 2011 the legislature voted to place the sales tax measure on the 2012 ballot, and it was approved in a statewide election by 58 percent of Arkansas voters.

In 2019 the legislature referred to the ballot a proposal to make the half-cent for highways permanent. It had been scheduled to expire in 2023, after being in effect for 10 years. In 2020 Arkansas voters approved the proposal, with 55 percent of voters in favor of making the half-cent sales tax permanent.

Approval of a sales tax as a funding source for highway programs was an important milestone. Historically, the major source of revenue for road improvements had been the motor fuels tax, which is paid by motorists at the gas pump.

The state motor fuels tax on gasoline is 24.5 cents per gallon, and for diesel it’s 28.5 cents a gallon.

With motor fuels taxes as the foundation of highway funding, the problem for highway officials is that revenue has been steadily declining even as costs of construc-

tion goes up. For one thing, cars and trucks are much more fuel efficient nowadays. Typically, to build a new interstate costs $9.4 million to $14 million per mile. A rural two-line highway costs $4 million a mile.

For example, 30 years ago a typical sedan used 30 gallons to drive 400 miles, and today a sedan is capable of going 400 miles on just 15 gallons. In other words, that typical family sedan now pays half in motor fuels taxes what it did 30 years ago.

Sales tax revenue increases with inflation. If the price of a candy bar goes from one dollar to two dollars, the sales tax collected by the state is doubled. However, even when inflation raises the price of a tank of gas, the state Transportation Department does not collect more in motor fuels taxes.

It doesn’t matter if it costs $3 a gallon or $4 a gallon, if you buy 10 gallons of gas the state will collect 24.5 cents a gallon, or $2.45 for each 10 gallons of gasoline you buy.

The federal government also collects a motor fuels tax, in addition to the state taxes. They are 15.44 cents a gallon for gas and 21.44 cents per gallon of diesel. Arkansas has been getting on average about $780 million a year in federal highway grants.

Arkansas has 16,454 miles of state highway, built and maintained by the state Transportation Department. We are the 12th largest state highway system in the country. Also, there are 65,553 miles of county roads and 17,240 miles of city streets in Arkansas.

The state maintains 7,356 bridges. Counties maintain 4,267 bridges and cities maintain 1.096 bridges.

John Maddox Terry Rice

From the United States Congress

Protecting Child Victims of Sex Trafficking

A few years ago, I met a young lady named Sara Kruzan, who shared her story as a child sex trafficking victim. At only 11 years old, Sara was groomed for a life of sex slavery by a man she trusted. At 13, Sara’s abuser forced her into sex work. After years of abuse at the hands of her trafficker, she escaped and later returned to retaliate against her abuser – killing him in the process.

Bruce Westerman

I introduced the Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act.

The bill was previously known as Sara’s Law, after Sara Kruzan’s story, which inspired me to introduce this legislation. Sara wanted the public to focus on the stories of all victims who have faced similar circumstances rather than just herself. Thus, the Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act.

From the United States Senate a claim.

Call to Action: Help Veterans Learn of New Benefit Eligibility

At only 17 years old, after what I can only imagine felt like a lifetime of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, she was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Unfortunately, this story is not as unique as you and I may hope. Sara was pardoned, but many are not as fortunate.

It is gut-wrenching to know that other humans out there will do such unspeakable things to other humans – especially children – and if those victims retaliate and fight back, they could face life in prison rather than a chance at freedom to heal from their trauma.

The United States is one of the only nations in the world that allows child victims of sex trafficking and abuse who retaliate against their abusers to grow up in prison with no chance at parole or rehabilitation. That’s why

The bill would significantly reform how child victims of sex trafficking who retaliate against their abusers are sentenced. It would allow courts to consider the trauma the child has endured through sex trafficking, abuse, or assault when sentencing. Unfortunately, despite the trauma child victims of sex trafficking and abuse endure, they are often still prosecuted as adults for fighting back against their abusers.

I believe no child should grow up behind bars because they chose to fight back against their abuser when faced with unthinkable circumstances. We cannot allow these children to be left behind or forgotten. The Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act is a chance for Republicans and Democrats to work on something bigger than us. I’m proud to have bipartisan support for this bill, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to push this important legislation closer to the finish line.

One year ago, Congress passed, and the president signed into law, landmark legislation to deliver care to veterans and survivors living with toxic wounds of war. The “Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act” fulfills the promise made to the men and women who served in our nation’s uniform by expanding eligibility for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and health care to those who were exposed to toxic substances such as Agent Orange and burn pits during their military service. I was proud to champion this legislation and help secure its passage. I’m now channeling the same determination to provide oversight for its implementation and make sure veterans are aware of the new earned benefits. Veterans and survivors must  file a claim before August 9 to be eligible for retroactive compensation. Post-9/11 combat veterans discharged more than 10 years ago and not enrolled in VA health care must enroll by October 1 to avoid a phased-in enrollment.

John Boozman

In recent days, the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System hosted a “PACT Act” event in North Little Rock to help veterans identify potential exposure to toxins during their military service and file clams. It’s hosted similar outreach efforts in other areas of the state. The Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks has also launched initiatives in locations throughout Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley to inform veterans about the benefit.

To prepare the VA for the increase in toxic exposure claims and additional veterans eligible for benefits, the “PACT Act” included measures to bolster recruitment and retention of the workforce, especially in rural areas. This included new ways to incentivize health care professionals to practice at VA medical facilities.

The additional tools are making a big difference in the delivery of health care.

VA workforce data show the number of employees at the Veterans Health Administration has grown nearly five percent this year, the highest annual growth rate in more than 15 years.

The VA and Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) have been leading efforts to spread the word about enrollment timelines.

In written testimony to the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) in late July, VA leaders responsible for implementing the law called the promotion “the largest coordinated outreach campaign in VA history.”

Since its enactment, the VA has received more than 744,000 “PACT Act”-related claims, including more than 8,700 in Arkansas. Millions of other veterans may qualify to receive benefits under this law but have yet to file

The “PACT Act” represents the largest expansion of VA benefits in decades. While hundreds of thousands of veterans have filed claims for services and care allowed under the law, many more have yet to participate. We need an all hands-on-deck approach to share information with veterans in our communities who may have been denied a toxic exposure-related claim to file again. It is my hope Arkansas will join this effort and share this with veterans in their families, neighborhoods and churches to make sure these heroes know about the earned benefits available to them so they can file a claim as soon as possible.

June Vernoise Kitchens Kesterson

June Vernoise

Kitchens Kesterson was born June 6, 1936, the fifth of six siblings to Bert and Pearl Kitchens in the community Liberty Hill (Dierks) Arkansas. She attended and graduated from school in Dierks, Arkansas. June was united in marriage to Jim Kesterson on October 6, 1955, in Cashmere, WA. They were married 28 years until his death on December 8, 1983.

Mama attended school in Dierks, Arkansas, where she enjoyed playing basketball, which she was really good at. She received scholarships to play at colleges in Colorado and Texarkana but declined to attend, instead choosing to get married to Jim.

Mama was a big fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, whether they were winning or not, she enjoyed shopping and going out to eat. She loved going to church and singing, above all else though she loved God, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom were her pride and joy. Mama loved attending church. She was a charter member of the Pleasant Grove Church of the Nazarene. She was a song leader for many years. She had a beautiful voice and played the piano, which she was self-taught.

Mama worked at Renova (shirt factory) for several years. Mama and Daddy raised chickens through the years. As well Mama worked as a dietician at the Polk County Memorial Hospital and retired after many years at Mena Medical Center. After retirement Mama decided to work part time at Area Agency and also to work part time at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home as a night sitter for nighttime family visitations.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Bert and Pearl Kitchens; husband, Jim Kesterson; son, Eddy Kesterson; daughter, Sharon Kesterson; sisters, Lorene Krantz, Jane Wallace, Faye Dixon; brothers, Dorman Kitchens, Dwight Kitchens; great-grandchild; Coltor Lane; son-in-law, Bill Johnston.

She is survived by her son, Brian Kesterson and wife Sonja of Mena, Arkansas; daughters, Phyllis Sirmon and husband Gregg of Mena, Arkansas, Lisa Callahan and husband Tommey of Mena, Arkansas; grandchildren, Clint Lane, Dana Ward and husband Chris, Ashley Sharp and husband Scott, Kayla White, Sallie Riggins and husband Will, Mason Johnston and wife Jessica; Pilar Fowler and husband Nathan, Allie Dowdy, and husband Donald, Sage Kesterson and wife Jayzlee, Kiara Kesterson, and Lila Kesterson; 24 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Vaughn Kesterson and wife Mary, Hollis Kesterson and wife Marsha, sisters-in-law, Arlene Kesterson and Sue Kesterson; and several nieces, nephews, friends and a special friend Dee Roberts.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Elite Hospice and the staff at Homewood Cottages, especially cottage #5.

Services for Mrs. Kesterson will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 27, 2023, at the Pleasant Grove Church of Nazarene in Cove, Arkansas. Brother Steve Bradley and Brother Mark Lyle will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas. There will be a visitation held Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Grafton B. Roberts

Grafton B. Roberts, 86, of Mena passed away July 10, 2023. He was born November 30, 1935, to Lou and Meda Roberts of Board Camp.

Grafton enjoyed his life wagon riding — love for his horses and bulldogs.

His adopted family, Delton Heath of Mena, Sheila Heath of Mena and Shannon Faught of Hatfield.

He is survived by 4 grandchildren 8 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren, unlimited nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Jo Roberts.

A memorial will be held Saturday, August 5th at 2:00 p.m. at 469 Polk Road 117.

William Marshall Hale

William “Willie” Marshall Hale, age 59, of Mena, Arkansas, passed from this life on Friday, July 28, 2023, at his home. Willie was born August 10, 1963, in Mena, Arkansas, to Raymond Clinton Hale and Virginia Louise Stroud Hale.

Willie was an aircraft engine mechanic by profession and started right out of high school. He was considered a legend by all those at the Mena airport. Several would seek out his advice about aircraft engines and was considered a pure genius in his career where He had many special friends over the years at the airport including all the guys at Mena Aircraft Engines. One admirer was his daughter, who growing up was attached to his hip through the Sum-

mers at the airport. Willie told those close to him that if he did one thing right in life, it was his daughter. The two had a special bond that most never get to experience. Willie also had a love for Harley Davidsons and enjoyed riding in the wind and letting his worries go. His last love that he loved almost as much as his ripper, Marlow, and his baby girl was his special grand dogs, Remington “Remi” and Hendrix “Jimi”.

They loved their peepaw and he loved them fiercely. Their favorite thing to do was to go for a ride to pick up their peepaw and greet him with the type of love and excitedness that only Remi and Jimi knew how to give. Willie loved all his boys at the Fox Den and has his ritual routine on the weekends with them. He was a member of the Elks Lodge and had many special friends there he loved to visit with.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Louise Hale and his significant other Toni Langley.

He is survived by his daughter, Marla Hale, and Fiancé Zach Bates, one brother, Greg Hale, and wife Ashley, two former spouses and dearest friends, Paula Hale and Deborah Galloway, nieces and nephews, Jami, Taylor, Trevor, and Waylon, his beloved grand dogs Remington and Hendrix, and a host of other relatives and friends too great to mention.

Graveside service will be held at Pinecrest Memorial Park on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 10:00, with Robert Smith and Rick Griffith to lead the service. Pallbearers will be Nick Guinn, Sawyer Manley, Mike Henderson, Rody Strother, Jim Crowley, and Ray Baker. Honorary Pallbearers will be Thomas Copelin, Rick Griffith, Remington, Hendrix, and Leonard Watts. A general visitation will be held at Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Shine on you crazy diamond!

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

“The Witness,” Arkansas’ musical passion play from Hot Springs, will present a performance at Mena High School’s Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 12. Now in its 43rd season, the is the compelling musical drama of the Sacrificial Love of God displayed in the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Admission is free but they will be accepting lover offerings. For more information call (501) 620-0698.

The Back Country Extension Homemakers Club meets the second Friday of each month at 1 p.m. at the UA Extension’s Education Building, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. We are a service organization affiliated with UA’s Division of Agriculture with a mission to have fun and learn new things while enriching our community and creating a more contented family life. We believe the greatest force that molds character comes from the home. Come join new friends and old as we together grow. For more info, contact Ginger at Gingerkm@protonmail.com.

Vacation Bible School: The VBS committee of First Presbyterian Church invites all youngsters from grades K — 5 to attend SCUBA (Super Cool Underseas Bible Adventures) Aug. 7-11, 9 a.m.-noon. Registration is at 8:30 on Aug. 7. You may pre-register your child(ren) by calling the church office at 394-3583. For a fun week of learning about various Bible adventures, join us for Vacation Bible School at 904 Church Ave., Mena.

Free sack lunch each Tuesday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., for all ages, at Janssen Park pavilion. Bubbles, chalk, free books, games, and music. Sponsored by First Presbyterian Church. Meals will be available all summer, May 30 through August 15.

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, noon - 1 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 p.m. on Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday, and 6 p.m. on Saturday at

Around Town

the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at (479) 234-5289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300.

William Brockett Gibbons family reunion, Saturday, Aug. 5 at Pleasant Grove Church of the Nazarene, Cove. Doors open at 11 a.m. Potluck at noon with meat and drinks provided. Family and friends are welcome.

Polk County Disabled American Veterans and auxiliary will be holding their monthly meeting on Thursday, Aug. 3, at 6:00 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park in Acorn. A potluck will be served with meetings to follow.

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 Democrat Meeting will be on Monday, Aug. 14, at PaPa’s Mexican Café on Hwy. 71 South at 6:30 p.m. Come early to socialize and eat. Bring a friend or two. Any questions? Call Linda Johnson at (479) 234-7966.

The First United Methodist Church of Mena will be collecting dry cat and dog food for the Humane Society of the Ouachitas, a no-kill animal shelter, during the month of August.

If you’d like to donate to this wonderful organization, bring the food to the church, 501 Ninth St., across from Janssen Park, Monday-Thursday between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. or bring it on Sunday at 10 a.m. and stay for church. Everyone is welcome.

First Presbyterian Church will be presenting a study, “The Evolution of the Bible”, in its Adult Sunday School Class on Sunday mornings beginning at 9:45. The class will be conducted by Earl Harrell. Anyone with an interest in this study is invited to attend. Classes will be at the church in the parlor, 904 Church Ave., Mena.

Polk County Social Seniors will meet at the Chopping Block at noon, Tuesday, Aug. 15. Come and meet other seniors and make friends. Any questions call Linda Johnson at (956) 241-2633.

The Ouachita Beekeepers Association is now meeting on the second Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. in the Education Building of the UA Extension Office, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. Come early and enjoy refreshments and bee talk with other beekeepers.

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.

The Hatfield Branch Library is open every Tuesday and Friday from noon-4 p.m. The library is located at 121 Cemetery Rd. (old Agri building) in Hatfield.

The Cove Branch Library is open Monday and Thursday from noon-5 p.m. The Library is located next to Cove Town Hall at 5568 Hwy. 71 S.

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:3011:30 a.m.

The Center has an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459.

Free meal and a message at Living Word, 171 W. Johnson, Hatfield, Wednesdays @ 6 p.m.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has meals and activities for seniors. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 385-2373.

Christ’s Church of Cove, 5234 Hwy. 71 S, Cove gathers every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m., for free coffee and conversation.

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.

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) 2348366 or (479) 216-3786.

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.

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.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, Ninth Street and Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call (479) 243-0297.

Bluegrass Jam Session is open to musicians and fans alike. Bring your instruments for an unplugged session to the Daisy Room (behind Janssen’s Avenue Florist & Gifts) the first and third Thursdays of each month, starting at 6:30 p.m. Free event. Some snacks are provided.

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) 2439600 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!

Arkansas volunteer fire departments receive wildland fire suppression kits

LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Rural Fire Protection Program (RFP), managed by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division (Forestry Division), is awarding 91 wildland fire suppression kits to rural fire departments across 46 counties in Arkansas. The RFP received $315,221.13 through the Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant from the United States Forest Service to purchase the kits.

Volunteer fire departments are the primary partner to Forestry Division crews in wildfire response and suppression, but they are often in need of specialized equipment and gear necessary for safe wildfire suppression. Since 2014, more than 670 wildland fire suppression kits have been distributed to volunteer fire departments throughout the state. The necessary equipment and gear in the kits include lightweight wildfire-resistant coveralls, wildland gloves, rakes, backpack water pumps, and leaf blowers.

Three fire departments in Polk County, three in Montgomery County and one in Scott County received kits. The complete list of fire departments receiving kits in 2023 are listed by fire department and county:

• DeWitt (Arkansas)

• Fountain Hill (Ashley)

• Unity-Frost Prairie (Ashley)

• Cave Springs (Benton)

• Gallatin (Benton)

• Alpena (Boone)

• Bergman (Boone)

• Zinc (Boone)

• Sumpter (Bradley)

• Warren (Bradley)

• Chambersville (Calhoun)

• Harrell (Calhoun)

• Eureka Springs (Carroll)

• Oak Grove (Carroll)

• DeGray (Clark)

• Highway 35 South (Cleveland)

• 4 Communities (Columbia)

• McNeil (Columbia)

• District 3 (Crawford)

• District 1 (Crawford)

• Dumas (Desha)

• Kelso-Rohwer (Desha)

• Centerville (Faulkner)

• Mayflower (Faulkner)

• Enola (Faulkner)

• Greenbrier (Faulkner)

• Pine Village (Faulkner)

• Branch (Franklin)

• Charleston (Franklin)

• Glencoe (Fulton)

• Morriston (Fulton)

• Lake Hamilton (Garland)

• Calvert Township (Grant)

• Poyen (Grant)

• Sheridan (Grant)

• Bingen (Hempstead)

• DeAnn (Hempstead)

• Guernsey (Hempstead)

• New DeRoche (Hot Spring)

• Tuckerman (Jackson)

• Hardin (Jefferson)

• Redfield (Jefferson)

• Watson Chapel (Jefferson)

• Department 2 (Johnson)

• Alicia (Lawrence)

• Black Rock (Lawrence)

• Southeast (Lincoln)

• Cerro Gordo (Little River)

• Foreman (Little River)

• Sugar Grove (Logan)

• Coy (Lonoke)

• South Bend 10 (Lonoke)

• Ward (Lonoke)

• Forum Alabam (Madison)

• Huntsville (Madison)

• Oakland-Promiseland (Marion)

• Pyatt (Marion)

• Ralph-Caney (Marion)

• Boggy Creek (Miller)

• Mandeville (Miller)

• Caddo Gap (Montgomery)

• Norman (Montgomery)

• Southfork (Montgomery)

• Fairhills (Nevada)

• Elliott (Ouachita)

• Central (Poinsett)

• Marked Tree (Poinsett)

• Cherry Hill (Polk)

• Grannis (Polk)

• Shady Grove (Polk)

• Moreland (Pope)

• North Pulaski (Pulaski)

• Oak Grove (Pulaski)

• Collegeville (Saline)

• Paron (Saline)

• Traskwood (Saline)

• Waldron (Scott)

• PG&S (Searcy)

• EMP (Sebastian)

• Wheatley (St. Francis)

• Timbo (Stone)

• Calion (Union)

• Parkers Chapel (Union)

• Three Creeks (Union)

• Lincoln (Washington)

• Albion (White)

• El Paso (White)

• Floyd-Romance (White)

• Judsonia (White)

• Kensett (White)

• Velvet Ridge (White)

Volunteer fire departments interested in participating in the program must submit an application to the RFP. The applications are scored according to specific criteria including fire district population, the size of the response area, wildfire equipment response needs, and other factors. The next application period is expected to begin in August 2023.

Fire departments should receive an application by mail, or they can be found at  agriculture.arkansas. gov/ forestry/rural-fire-protection-program/ when the application period opens.

For more information, fire departments should contact Kathryn Mahan-Hooten, RFP administrator, at  kathryn.mahan@agriculture. arkansas.gov or 501- 679-3183.

Polk County’s Masonic leaders help woman in need

Written by Trey Youngdahl, 32°

Polk County is home to three Masonic lodges: Dallas Lodge No. 128, Mountain Meadow Lodge No. 218, and Wickes Lodge No. 548. When the area’s Masonic leaders heard of a woman in need, they were more than eager to help.

Freemasonry has a longstanding reputation for charity. One of the earliest lessons a Mason learns is one of charity, and the value of being able to support others when they are in need. In Arkansas, Freemasonry is responsible for several philanthropic acts, including the laying of the foundation for the Arkansas School for the Blind building, the erection of the Children’s Clinic and Hospital buildings at the Tuberculosis Sanatorium in Booneville, the establishment of an orphanage called The Masonic Home in Batesville, the construction of the occupational therapy building at Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, not to mention the several charitable acts that Masons do every single day that go unnoticed. In Masonry, we say, “The Masonic Way is to give without remembering and to receive without forgetting.”

These projects don’t just happen on a wider scale. Local lodges are more than happy to help people who are in need. James Fry, Master of Mountain Meadow Lodge No. 218 in Hatfield, was the first to hear of a woman in Cove whose power had suddenly gone out and wasn’t able to get it fixed.

“I was studying the Bible with my son when all of the sudden there

was a pop and the lights just went out,” the woman explained. “Hiring an electrician would’ve been way too expensive for us, so we had to just make-do without power to half of the house.”

Fry passed the information on to Terry Fuquay, Master of Dallas Lodge No. 128 in Mena and David Jennings, Master of Wickes Lodge No. 548, at Fuquay’s church in Mena, The Shepherd’s Word. The three made plans to help the woman in need without hesitation.

“I have always helped someone who needed help. I believe this is a lost thing that neighbors and family have done when anyone, especially when a woman with kids at home or someone on hard times that needed help. Everyone needs to do more of this,” Fry said. “Maybe the world will heal itself. What you give out

you may get back when you need help.”

All three Masonic leaders got to the woman’s house as soon as they could, and got right to work, free of charge. The fix ended up being much simpler than the Masons had anticipated.

“Some places I have seen have crazy wiring so it’s usually a process of elimination. Find the last place that you have power and find the closest

place to it that doesn’t. And if you are lucky, it’s the same run of wire. Other times, it is the luck of the draw, you wiggle the right wire and find the problem and then repair it,” Jennings said. “Be careful around any electrical circuits, and don’t stick your tongue to it.”

Charity

Because of the emphasis Freemasonry places on charity, Dallas Lodge No. 128 grants a scholarship called the Rex Burns Memorial Scholarship to a student in Polk County every year.

“The Brotherhood of Freemasonry was founded and established on a charity called brotherly love. Freemasonry was designed by the guiding light of the precepts of God’s word to be a sacred retreat of charity where men are encouraged to discipline themselves by allowing the Bible to be the rule and guide of their faith and practice as they serve their God, their family and their country,” Fuquay said. “Charity must not have any limitations in any of our walks of life. The only limitations are found in seeking the appropriate actions when charity is our guide.”

Dallas Masonic Lodge No. 128 is located in the former post office at 701 Port Arthur Ave. in Mena. (Photo by Trey Youngdahl)

Daughters of the American Revolution fall kick-off event

Written by Registrar, Carolyn Hanna James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR

Have you ever been interested in learning about the Daughters of the American Revolution? Are you a patriotic, civic-minded woman who also loves history and volunteering for your community? Then the DAR may be just what you’re searching for.

The James K. Polk Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will be celebrating our new year with a kick-off event on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 10 a.m.-noon, at the Ninth Street Ministries building located at 306 Ninth St. in Mena. You are

cordially invited to come by to visit with us to learn more about this most worthwhile organization. Over 1 million women have joined since the DAR was founded over 125 years ago as a place where we could pursue our passion of promoting and preserving history, encouraging historical education and patriotism in our schools, volunteering in our

communities, and honoring those who have served, and are serving, our Nation through our various veterans’ programs.

Our motto is “God, Home and Country,” and our members take that sentiment to heart. Daughters across the nation and world contribute millions of community service hours every year. We come from all walks of life, but we share

a common bond of having an ancestor who helped secure the independence of the United States of America. Any woman 18 years of age or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, and can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible to join.

DAR currently has more than 190,000 members in over 3,000 chapters in the U.S. and abroad. Our local meetings are casual, non-political, and always offer an educational program with the added bonus of making life-long friendships with those with whom we serve.

You can learn more about the amazing history of the DAR and what we are doing to honor our heritage and country by visiting the National Society’s website at https://www.dar.org . We also encourage anyone interested in DAR to drop by our fall kick-off event and visit with us. Members will talk to you about what it means to be in the DAR and will walk you through the process of beginning the search of you family history to see if you have a Patriot in your past. Hope to see you there!

Pulse takes first in The CALL’s first trivia night

By Ethan Nahté

The CALL in Polk County held their first of what they hope will be many annual trivia fundraising events on Friday night. The sponsors were Century 21 Perry Real Estate and The Crossing Church, which the event was held in the gym at The Crossing.

The evening began with a prayer and a meal. The chicken was donated by Tyson Foods and prepared by Big D’s Station. Potato Salad and other fixings were courtesy of the Century 21 Perry Real Estate ladies, The CALL and the Crossing Church ladies did all the desserts.

There were six teams competing with four to five members per team, ranging in age from teenagers to 60-

event coordinators.

Lance said, “The event was really fun, and for the first time putting it on, I thought it went pretty smooth and everyone did an excellent job. Our MC Spenser Ellis was wonderful and very entertaining, and Nano who did the sound did a fantastic job.”

around the Bible, that anyone in the audience could answer. Door prizes were given by Rachel Lance @C21, The Call, and Ouachita Drifter Clothing Co.

there were two teams. At that point, the scores reset to zero and the two final contenders battled it out over 10 questions.

The top three teams were The Pink Team (Ouachita Broadcasting/Pulse Multi-Media) with a total winning score of 3,974 points, The Red Team (Dodge the Buschman’s) with a total score of 2,655 for second place, and The Silver Team (the Georges) with a total score of 1,560 for third place.

The $400 in prize money was given by Union Bank of Mena, Teeter Motors of Mena and 6 G Construction. The teams donated their winnings back to The CALL, with the exception of the trophy given by Century 21 Perry Real Estate. The Pulse’s Swap Shop Lady Ariel Var-

plus. The teams were either identified by color such as Pink, Silver or Red; or names such as The Hooligans, The Bubble Guppies and the Crazy Cats. Rachel Lance, Theresa Anderson and The CALL were the

Ellis asked eight trivia questions in each of eight categories ranging from music and TV/film to comic books and sports. Believe it or not, the team with the young ladies seemed to have come out on top with the most correct answers in the sports category.

There were also bonus questions asked specifically for each team, as well as trivia questions for door prizes, many of which were based

“We wished we had more teams, but maybe we can next time,” Lance said. “Hopefully next time we can get more audience there to watch as well.”

Alyssa Green, The CALL of Polk County Church Coordinator, said, “We would love to see more audience members next year and continued support from our community. We believe it will grow with time as we are just relaunching this year so we understand that it will grow with time.”

After the first four categories, the elimination rounds began until

ner had her heart set on winning that trophy. She insisted on several photos being taken with her team, See TRIVIA continued on page 14

By Richie Lawry

I had been looking forward to spending some time in the Colorado Rocky Mountains for several months. Now I was finally there. After spending a day in Frisco and staying at the wonderful Frisco Inn on Galena, we headed to Crested Butte, where we would meet with family and stay for a few days.

The drive from Frisco to Buena Vista was beautiful, but as we headed west out of Buena Vista on the winding road to Cottonwood Pass, the scenery took my breath away. From Buena Vista, the road quickly climbs to its summit of 12,126 feet, 500 feet above the tree line. Cottonwood Pass is the highest paved mountain pass over the Continental Divide.

We had 360-degree views of two distinct watersheds from the top as we walked up the trail, trying to breathe in the thin mountain air. After taking many photos of the spectacular views, we returned to the truck to head down the pass. The road wound down through the Taylor Canyon along the river to the massive Taylor Park Reservoir.

The following day, we took Gothic Road to Emerald Lake. There we saw the beautiful green mountain lake nestled in a meadow surrounded by a spectacular display of blooming flowers. The meadows were alive with colorful wildflowers showing off their vibrant yellows, whites, purples, and reds. After exploring the Emerald Lake area and taking many photos, we drove to the Judd Falls trailhead.

We hiked the half-mile trail to the falls through fields of wildflowers and towering Aspen. There were terrific views of the surrounding mountains, including Gothic Mountain, Mt. Baldy, and Mt. Crested Butte. The trail was well-defined, and it was necessary to stay on the path because all the surrounding land is under study by the Rocky Mountain Biological Research Laboratory.

An Arkie’s Faith Judd Falls

photo before the colors disappeared. The sight made such an impression that I researched the phenomenon later that evening.

I learned that what I had witnessed is referred to colloquially as a “Fire Rainbow.” But it was neither fire nor a rainbow. Technically they are known as circumhorizontal arcs — an ice halo formed by hexagonal, plate-shaped ice crystals in high-level cirrus clouds. The halo is so large that the arc appears parallel to the horizon.

below.

Fortunately, he was with friends who could contact the authorities to rescue him. It took four hours for the Crested Butte Mountain Rescue Team to get to him and bring him safely back up the mountainside. His injuries were not life-threatening, but he will never forget his experience.

The representative of the RMBL told us the story of the unfortunate hiker to keep us from trying to make our way down to the falls. She wanted us to know the danger and warn us about the possible consequences of trying to reach the bottom of the falls.

In 1928, Western Colorado College professor Dr. John Johnson founded the biological research laboratory at the abandoned mining town of Gothic. Recognizing the rich diversity of the local ecosystems, he began bringing students to study amid Gothic’s ruins. Since then, thousands of students and scientists have followed in Dr. Johnson’s footsteps, making the ecosystems around Gothic some of the most intensively studied in the world and making Rocky Mountain Biological Research Laboratory (RMBL) an internationally renowned center for scientific research and education.

While hiking through a large stand of aspen trees, I looked up to see a rainbow in the sky. But it was different than any rainbow I had ever seen. Among the clouds were perfectly horizontal and brightly colored bands. I snapped a quick

For a fire rainbow to occur, the conditions must be exact. Three things must align perfectly: The sun must be at an elevation of 58 degrees or greater. High-altitude cirrus or cirrostratus clouds must be present with ice crystals. Sunlight must enter the ice crystals at a specific angle to refract the light. This is why circumhorizontal arcs or fire rainbows are rare phenomena.

As I carefully made my way down the rocky trail to the falls, I could hear the roar of rushing water. But it was not until the last minute that the trail ended with a view of the falls from a cliff. Warning signs told of the danger of getting too close to the edge. I rested on a bench at the viewing area and took in the beauty of the falls.

While talking with a representative of the RMBL there, I learned the story of the drama that had occurred the day before. A hiker decided to go down the extremely steep hillside to view the falls from ground level. As he made his way down, holding on to a small tree for support, the tree came up by the roots, and he crashed headlong down the mountainside, finally ending up in the water

As I thought about the warnings given to us at the overlook of Judd Falls, I realized there was a parallel between those warnings and God’s law. Every law that God has given us reflects His desire for the joy and well-being of His people. Each rule protects His people as they live in a sinful world.

Often, we look at God’s law as repressive. It creates uncomfortable restrictions. But we need to look at His laws as protection. In his book, “The Purity Principle,” Randy Alcorn uses an analogy about driving along a mountain pass when it’s dark and foggy, and your car runs off the road, and you hit the guardrail. You slam on the brakes and get out of the car with a flashlight. What do you do? Do you look at the fender of your car and say, “Oh no. That rotten guardrail! Why did somebody put that guardrail there? Now I’ve got a dented fender!”? No, you thank God for that guardrail. It’s there for your benefit. That guardrail saved your life!

Gentle Reader, instead of seeing God’s laws as a burden, we need to ask God to help us see his commandments as guardrails to keep us from danger. “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome.” 1 John 5:3 (NLT)

I am disappointed that the bank turned down a loan for my Desserts by Drone business. They said it was just pie in the sky.

Judd Falls, located within the Gunnison National Forest. (Photo by Richie Lawry)

Summer lunches at park expected to reach 1,500

Article and photos by Ethan Nahté

Several churches and some organizations around Polk County offer either weekly or monthly free meals they provide to the public. Some even have food pantries. Then there are the senior centers who offer meals-on-wheels or daily meals at their facilities.

During the school year, many families depend on assistance from the education system to provide free or reduced meals for their children, or the BackPack Program or something akin. The schools also offer some meals during the summer.

For the past three years, the First Presbyterian Church of Mena has been giving away free sack lunches to people of all ages. Volunteers can be seen handing out Lunches of Love that include a sandwich, fruit and a bottle of water on Tuesdays, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., at Janssen Park pavilion with a large banner reading “Free Food.” Children and families can be seen playing beneath the pavilion or nearby with bubbles, chalk, or games. They began this year’s program on May 30 and will be continue through

August 15, the day before Mena schools resume classes.

Tricia Stiefer said, “We’re just handing out free lunches, having fellowship and games, to help out the community for those in need. Anybody who wants a sandwich can come up here.”

Mike Landry said, “We don’t turn anybody away. It’s good when we get a lot of children. That’s basically what it started out as, but it’s for everybody.”

Tricia said, “The original premise was to feed the kids when school’s out. They don’t get lunch during the summer like they do during the school year. We just turned it into whoever wants can have it, no

questions asked. Take as many as you want, or as many as you need, for here or to go.”

Some of those picking up meals do stick around and socialize. Some find a picnic table away from the pavilion and eat their lunch. Others take their meals on the go. All who came by as the interview took place expressed their thanks to the volunteers.

Tricia has a notebook she keeps handy where she tracks how many

meals are given away each week, for all three years.

“[July 18] was 116, which was our biggest one ever. We’re averaging 94 per week this summer. On July 4th we did 70. When it rains, we get 70-80 people.”

Wes Stiefer said, “We’re expecting by the end of summer to giveaway about 1,500 this year. In 2021, we did about 230 in six weeks. Last year we did about 750 in 11 or 12 weeks.”

This year’s tally will also be over a 12-week period.

Wes said, “We’ve had some other churches this year who have been helping, which is wonderful. What we would like to see is other churches step in the coming years and take another day of the week. I dream big. My dream is that we’re feeding people every day of the week all year long so nobody ever goes hungry in this community.”

Landry said, “Even though we have a small congregation, we do quite a bit.”

With a laugh, Wes said, “We have about 70 members. We’re small and mighty.”

TRIVIA

continued from page 11

The CALL, members and with several others.

Everyone appeared to enjoy themselves. Green said, “We hope to make it better with each year… We really enjoyed putting the fundraiser on and look forward to doing

it again. We raised a little over $700. We are thankful beyond measure for all of our sponsors and friends who participated and supported us.”

“We have many more things in the works.” Lance said.

OLT announces auditions for ‘Clue’

Submitted by Julie Ulmer

Ouachita Little Theatre is holding auditions for a fall comedy onstage based on the famous Clue board game by Hasbro. The script itself is adapted from the “Clue”

southwest Arkansas. This play is mostly composed of middle-aged plus roles. We may make accommodations to age progress younger actors, but the intent is to have a cohesive, believable cast, appropriate for the content. We will be casting approximately 11 actors, but we also will need a sizeable crew, so if you have any interest in being part of an amazing theatrical production, please come out and join the fun!”

screenplay by Jonathan Lynn and is written by Sandy Rustin. Additional material is by Hunter Foster and Eric Price and is based on the Paramount Motion Pictures film of the same name.  The show dates will be October 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29. Open auditions are Tuesday, Aug. 8 and Thursday, Aug. 10 from 6-8 p.m., and also Saturday, August 12 from 9 a.m.-noon. All auditions will be held at OLT, 610 Mena Street. Director Jered Biard gives the following details about this hilarious show. He states, “’Clue’ is a witty, campy, fast-paced, laughout-loud comedy classic, and we can’t wait to bring this gem to

Detailed character descriptions can be viewed on OLT’s website at oltmena.com as well as on OLT’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.

OLT’s production of “Clue” is made possible by arrangement with Playscripts with original music by Michael Holland.

Dana Kincaid of Mena was the fifth winner of the family four-pack of Magic Springs Theme and Water Park tickets. Her name was selected from our eight sponsors. Kincaid signed up for the contest at The Shop at the Foot of the Hill. See the Magic Springs ad on this page for details and sponsor locations. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Youmans graduates basic training

By Mena Police Department

On July 28, Mena Police Patrolman Travis Youmans graduated Basic Training at the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in East Camden.

Basic Training provides instruction and practical application in criminal investigation, accident investigation, firearms, defensive tactics, officer safety techniques, traffic law, criminal law, civil liability and other legal aspects of law enforcement, crime prevention, crisis intervention, cultural diversity, and other areas of importance to officers beginning their career.

We are glad to have him on our team.

Cossatot River is making school history with the launch of their inaugural junior varsity football season this Fall. The Eagles’ first game is against the Centerpoint Knights on Sept. 5. See the rest of their story on page 20. (photo courtesy of Cossatot River School District)

Riding With Cochise: The Apache Story of America’s Longest War

By Ethan Nahté

When it comes to biographies on the legendary Chiricahua Apache chief Cochise, there are dozens of accounts directly about the warrior or inclusion in the biographies of other well-known warriors and chiefs who he rode with, such as Geronimo, Mangas Coloradas and Victorio. Each of these Apache and more are included in “Riding With Cochise: The Apache Story of America’s Longest War” (Skyhorse Publishing) by Steve Price.

Cochise is also frequently brought up in biographies on military figures such as Gen. George Crook or Lt. Charles Gatewood.

Then there are people such as Lt. George Bascom, whom some might consider almost single-handedly caused much of the unnecessary violence and bloodshed. The Apache had been fighting European and American encroachment of their land for 250 years, but the wars and battles directly involving Cochise and those aforementioned lasted approximately 25 years. The end result was treaties filled with lies and imprisonment, not to mention attempts at eradicating their culture and heritage.

Not to say the indigenous people were innocent of crimes, but the details Price writes of basically left the Apache (and other tribes) with little or no recourse but to fight for survival like a feral beast cornered in their own den.

Price does not deliver history in a wholly chronological manner as he weaves the tale correlating the ties

between the chiefs, tribes and their enemies. He provides a chapter on the Americans, delivering insight to key military personnel and/or trappers, scouts and bounty hunters. Then Price provides a chapter on historical places to visit that relate to those historical moments. This is followed by a chapter regarding a specific Apache chief, their families and people.

In this format, the book alternates, painting a portrait with photography and words of a historical drama through an area mainly comprised of what is now New Mexico, Arizona, western Texas, and across the border into Sonora and Chihuahua, Mexico. Price takes the reader through the battles and great escapes that go for hundreds of miles filled with deep canyons and towering mountain ranges that seemingly few but the Apache could ascend and disappear while being searched for by thousands, as well as the fa-

mous Apache Pass.

The number of white men the Apache trusted or respected could probably be counted on one hand. Price does an excellent job of showing the good and the bad actions and intentions from all sides of the story, including the Mexican military and government. They are a big part of this story, as well. Honest efforts at peace were made on several occasions by the Americans and the Apache, with the results rarely turning out for the better. Subterfuge and ambush were more in line for several of the key people involved in heinous acts of savagery.

Price had the great fortune to interview both Freddie Kay-dah-zinne (Nov. 8, 1949 - Dec. 2, 2020), greatgreat-grandson of Cochise, and Harlyn Geronimo, the great-grandson of Geronimo. He also interviewed others from various Apache tribes who had ties to these men. He did his homework and cited several other historical books and authors. As a former New Mexico resident, he visited the locations he speaks of, handily providing specific directions in the of places of interest chapters.

Overall, Price does an excellent

job in taking the reader along for a wild ride through the Wild West and exposing the bloody skeletons of its past.

Another thing book lovers will immediately pick up on is the quality of this 220-page book. The hardcover has a beautiful painting by David Nordahl. The paper is high-quality, slick glossy and case binding, meaning this is a well-made book that’ll last readers for years to come. The book is available through Skyhorse Publishing and other major booksellers.

Price now resides in the Mena area. He is the author of 17 books and has written more than 3,500 magazine articles ranging from American history to wildlife, fishing and hunting to nature photography.

His photography, which is included throughout “Riding With Cochise,” has also appeared in several other books and magazines, including National Geographic, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and Field & Stream, in which he serves as one of their contributing editors. He gave a photography program in March for the Ouachita Photography Club at the Mena Art Gallery.

Making history: Cossatot River JV football program launches this fall

By Patrick Massey

WICKES - It’s been a busy summer for the Cossatot River Eagles as they prepare to launch their inaugural junior varsity football program this fall.

Under head football coach Dakota Barrett, the team has been practicing for weeks to build the program from the ground level ahead of the Eagle’s first game against Centerpoint on Sept. 5.

Cossatot River School District announced last year it would launch its first-ever football program. The program is starting this upcoming school year at the junior high for seventh through ninth grade. The district hopes to organize a high school team in the future once the new program gets a few years at the junior varsity level.

Barrett said his boys are shaping up and ready to compete this fall.

“We’ve attended a team camp this summer, going on workouts for a month and a half,” Barrett said. “We’re like everybody else. August is here, it’s national football days. To be honest with you, it’s all clicking here and we’re hoping to put on a good season.”

It’s not every day an Arkansas coach is tasked with creating an athletic program from scratch — let alone one as involved as football. Barrett is leading the new team after serving as a coach for the Mount Ida football program — a community well-known in

the region as a football town. While the experience hasn’t been short on challenges, Barrett said he’s proud of how the program has come together over the summer.

“It’s been an experience of a lifetime, good and bad,” Barrett said, laughing. “It’s been stressful at times for all of us, but also so rewarding. We started with absolutely nothing but to get to see these kids come out here with zero knowledge, see them learn the game and come to love it the way we who played football loved it. Well, that’s what it’s all about.”

Barrett said one player who’s really taken to the new program is the Eagle’s first-ever quarterback, Noah Brandon.

“He stepped in at the starting spot over the summer, took hold of it and never looked back,” said Barrett.

Brandon said he’s ready to get out on the field this fall and help lead the Eagles for their first season. He played football at his old school but said this is his first chance to play on a real team.

“I’m pretty stoked for it,” said Brandon. “I like being on the first team, the whole team is liking the opportunity to be the first. I used to play a little football but never on a team.”

The team’s star running back, Skylar Velez, looks forward to the opportunities the new program will provide its players.

“I really think this could open

up some opportunities for me, for everyone on the team,” said Velez.

One fact Barrett is focusing on this year is the history his team is making for Cossatot River School District. He said the Eagles are creating a legacy future teams can build on for years to come.

“This is a unique opportunity for us, for these kids,” said Barrett. “Not many people get the opportunity to say they started a sports program, especially not football. That’s what we keep pounding in these kids’ heads: history, well, they’re writing it right now for Cossatot River School District and that’s something pretty special.”

It’s an effort, said Barrett, that’s going to make a big impact for the school district and the students who participate in the program - and an effort the entire Cossatot River community can be proud of.

“We want to end up with a rich football program here in Southern Polk County, a program like Mena and De Queen has,” said Barrett. “We’re not just suiting out a team, we want to win and build a legacy and we want to start this year. We’re just ready to go.”

Eagles fans are invited to see a full schedule of this fall’s season, as well as other updates from the program, by checking out Cossatot River Eagles Football on Facebook.

- YARD SALE -

Large Yard Sale, 175 Polk Rd. 17, Old cabin just before Provence’s Recycle, Just past the new Cossatot School, Vandervoort. Just off of Hwy. 71.

August 4th-5th. Because of heat will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 12:30. We will have cold water and cold drinks available. The sale will be under shade of 3 huge oak trees. Come and browse before it gets too hot. BRASS! BRASS!! BRASS!!!

The ordinary for sale, Clothes, lots of baby boys, little boys, men’s leather coats, fur coat, small petite clothes, skirts, pants for teens, jewelry, Western books, clown collection, toy slot machine, heirloom pictures.

Not so ordinary, Ark. Turquoise, rock specimens, old wood stove, (old tiller, n/w) dog house, fishing boat

MEN’S very unusual sale!! SMALL AMT’s, old mining supplies, cupels, crucibles, 3 large crucibles, orange flagging tape, hip chain string, sample bags, old scales, Mining books, old shovels, tools, wrenches, hammers, hand saws, crosscut saws. All this mining supplies belonged to a man who would be about 100 now.

Brass collectors!!! Brass, Brass, Brass!! A 40-year-old brass collection, buy one piece or box full. 100’s and 100’s of pieces.

T0802

Back-to-School Yard Sale, Wednesday, Aug. 2 - Friday, Aug. 4, 2708 Doris Lane off West Boundary Road in Mena. T0802

- CLASSIFIEDS -

- SERVICES -

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. T0823

Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Heavy and light dozer work, heavy excavation, soft ground to rock excavation, heavy off-road hauling, road design and construction

50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction (479) 394-9227

T0809

Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0830

Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Roads, bridges, house pads, building pads, basements, land clearing, small lots to large tracks, ponds, stream crossings, farm roads, building demolition, site planning & prep.

50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction. (479) 394-9227

T0809

Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T0802

Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts. Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976. T0830

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0823

- PETS FOR SALE -

- HELP WANTED -

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.

T0830

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.

T0830

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for a technical/phone sales position. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, answering technical inquiries, providing product information and recommendations, troubleshooting with potential and current customers, and processing orders in a fast-paced office setting.

Parts, automotive, and computer experience would be helpful.

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.

T0830

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

T0830

COMMISSIONER’S SALE NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to the authority and directions contained in the decretal order of the Circuit Court of Polk County, Arkansas, made and entered on May 2, 2023, in a certain cause (No. 57CV-22-115) then pending between Arvest Bank, Plaintiff, and Mary L. Fields and Joseph R. Fields, Jr., Defendant, the undersigned, as Commissioner of said Court, will offer for sale at public venue to the highest bidder, at the Polk County Courthouse in which said Court is held, located in Mena, Arkansas, within the hours prescribed by law for judicial sales, on September 5, 2023 at 10:00 AM, the following described real estate, situated in Polk County, Arkansas:

Part of the Northeast Quarter (NE1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4) of Section Thirty-four (34), Township Three (3) South, Range Thirty-two (32) West, Polk County, Arkansas, described as follows: Beginning at the Southeast Corner of said NE1/4 SW1/4; Thence West 472 feet to a metal stake; Thence North 467 feet to a metal stake; Thence East 472 feet to the East line of the NE1/4 SW 1/4 and metal stake; Thence South along the East line 467 feet to the Point of Beginning. Subject to all public utility and roadway easements as now may exist. An easement 30 feet in width for ingress and egress Running from Hwy No. 71 West over and across the existing driveway to lands herein described above over and said easement is across lands described as, being A part of the Northwest Quarter (NW1/4) of the Southeast Quarter (SE1/4) of Section Thirty-four (34), Township Three (3) South, Range Thirty-two (32) West, Polk County, Arkansas, described as: Commencing at the SW corner of the NW1/4 SE1/4 for a Point of Beginning; Thence North 01 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 310.00 feet; Thence South 88 degrees 25 minutes 34 seconds East 382.94 feet to the West right of way of U.S. Highway 71; Thence South 37 degrees 11 minutes 20 seconds West and along the West sight of way line of said highway 381.19 feet; Thence leaving highway and North 88 degrees 26 minutes West 158.57 feet to the Point of Beginning and containing 1.93 acres, more or less, as surveyed by D.C. Spencer, PLS #424, recorded in Plat Cabinet SC5-100, 9/25/96 as described in Misc Book M-310, pages 247-248, recorded 10/15/2001.

The property is more commonly known as 5340 Highway 71 S, Cove, AR 71937.

TERMS OF SALE: On a credit of three months, provided the purchaser shall execute a commercial corporate surety bond as required by law and the order and decree of said Court in said cause, with approved security, bearing interest at the maximum legal rate per annum from date of sale until paid, and a lien being retained on the premises sold to secure the payment of the purchase money. The property will be sold subject to any and all property taxes due and payable.

GIVEN under my hand this ________ day of ___________________, 2023.

Michelle H. Schnell Commissioner in Circuit

Approved by:

Matthew R. Smith (Bar #2006098)

MACKIE

WOLF ZIENTZ & MANN, P.C.

Redding Building

1701 Centerview Drive, Suite 207

Little Rock, AR 72211

For sale - AKC English Bulldog puppies. Merle, black-tri, and standard colors all in the same litter, and ready for their new home. Facebook Arklatex Bulldogs to see these beauties. Call 870-642-3104 for more information. TFN

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

July 24, 2023

Deputies responded to a report of a theft of property.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 299 near Mena in reference to trespassers.

July 25, 2023

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to theft of property.

July 26, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Roach Avenue in reference to a verbal domestic dispute.

Lauren Dirreen, 22, of Wickes was arrested on a 3rd Degree Assault Warrant.

July 27, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 88 E near Ink in reference to an unattended death.

Timothy Stubbs, 43, of Lockesburg was arrested on a Body Attachment.

Lawrence Houser, 36, of Wickes was arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department on two Failure to Appear Warrants and a charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a missing firearm.

July 28, 2023

Deputies responded to a report of a stolen license plate.

Richard Cheshire, 61, of Mena was arrested on a felony warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine or Cocaine with Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance and Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms. James Thornton, 53, of Cove was arrested on five Failure to Appear Warrants.

Jason Hoyle, 53, of Wickes was arrested by an officer with the Arkansas Parks on a Failure to Appear Warrant.

A traffic stop on Hwy 71 near Cove led to the arrest of Michael Flowers, 45, of DeQueen on three charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Deputies responded to a residence on Hwy 4 W near Cove in reference to a stolen vehicle.

Deputies responded to a report of Interference with Child Custody.

July 29, 2023

Joshua Hulliberger, 37, of Hatfield was arrested on five Failure to Appear Warrants.

A traffic stop led to the arrest of Aramis Candlearia, 21, of Hatfield on charges of Possession of Firearm by Certain Persons, Driving Left of Center and Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License.

Deputies responded to a report of a gas drive off.

July 30, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Stone Lane near Mena in reference to a suicidal subject.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked 3 vehicle accidents this week.

Polk County Detention Center

Jail Population: 46 Incarcerated Inmates with 19 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS

July 23

Logan Davis, 34, was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a traffic stop on Janssen Avenue.

A report of theft was taken from Walmart.

July 24

A report of cruelty to animals was taken at a residence on Turner Street.

Dalton Sanders, 22, was served with a warrant at a residence on Reeves Street.

July 25

A report of battery and disorderly conduct was taken at Mena Regional Heath Systems.

Anthony Martinez, 18, was served with a warrant at a residence on Marian Street.

July 26

A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant. A report of disorderly conduct

was taken at a residence on Sutherland Avenue.

July 27

A report of breaking or entering and theft of property was taken at a residence on Ozark Street.

July 28

A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Reeves Avenue.

A report of theft of property was taken from Walmart.

A report of sexual assault was taken from a walk-in complainant.

July 29

A report of commercial burglary and theft of property was taken from Wal-Mart.

issued citation

Mena Police announced that on July 29, after an investigation of the vandalism done in June to the Boy and Girl fountain at Janssen Park, a Juvenile was issued a citation for Breaking or Entering and Defacing Objects of Public Respect.

Fountain vandal

Polk County’s Revolutionary War connection The Battle of Kings Mountain

Written by Kathy Hagler, 2 nd Vice Regent

James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR

The Battle of Kings Mountain was a Revolutionary War battle that took place at Kings Mountain, South Carolina, on Oct. 7, 1780. It is nine miles south of present-day Kings Mountain, North Carolina. The Patriot militia defeated the Loyalist militia commanded by British Major Patrick Ferguson of the 71 st Foot. This battle has been described as ‘the war’s largest all-American fight’.

Ferguson had arrived in North Carolina in early September to recruit troops for the Loyalist militia and to protect the flank of Lord Cornwallis’ main force. Ferguson spread the work that if the Patriot militias didn’t surrender, they would face the consequences. Instead of surrendering, Patriot militia leaders Benjamin Cleveland, James Johnson, William Campbell, John Sevier, Joseph McDowell and Isaac Shelby rallied their men to attack Ferguson and his forces.

Ferguson learned of the attack and decided to retreat back to the safety of Lord Cornwallis’ army, but he wasn’t fast enough. The Patriots caught up with the Loyalists at Kings Mountain near the border with South Carolina. Ferguson was completely surprised, and the Patriots attacked and surrounded the Loyalists, inflicting severe casualties.

Ferguson was fatally shot while

trying to break the Patriot line, and his men surrendered. Some Patriots gave no quarter until their officers regained control over the men. It is said they were seeking revenge for the alleged killings on May 29, 1780, by Col. Banastre Tarleton’s militiamen at the Battle of Waxhaws.

Even though they won, the Patriots had to retreat to keep ahead of Cornwallis’ possible advance. They later executed nine Loyalists after a short trial.

This battle was pivotal in the Southern campaign. The victory of the American Patriot militia over the Loyalists came after

a string of Patriot defeats at the hands of Cornwallis. It also raised the Patriots morale. Ferguson’s death and the destruction of the Loyalist militia forced Cornwallis to abandon his plan to invade

North Carolina and retreat into South Carolina.

This is the second in a series of articles that will reveal a Revolutionary War tie to Polk County. Stay tuned for more.

This illustration depicts the moment Ferguson was shot as he tried to break through the American lines. (Image Source: New York Public Library Digital Collections.)

It’s time to think about the fair Entering your baked goods

Submitted by Kathy Hagler

Are you a baker? Or a candy maker? Then here’s what you need to know about entering your goodies in the Polk County Fair:

All items must be enclosed in a re-closable plastic food bag and should be displayed on a “hard” disposable plate;

All items must be entered on Wednesday, Aug. 30, between 7:30-10:00 a.m.;

No custard or cream products can be accepted;

No foods requiring refrigeration can be accepted; Products may be prepared from package mixes.

Sevier County Fair and Rodeo is Aug. 12-19

DE QUEEN – Organizers of this year’s 86th annual Sevier County Fair and Rodeo are gearing up to present a host of activities beginning Aug. 12 and continuing through Aug. 19.

The fair begins on Saturday, Aug. 12, with the poultry show, a beauty pageant and the talent show that evening.

So go through those recipes for your favorite cakes, cookies, breads, candies and pies. Be sure to read the Polk County Fair catalog for a complete list of rules and items for the Baked Goods Department. See you at the fair

Monday, Aug. 14, will mark the first opening day of the exhibits education building and the commercial booth building to the public. These two buildings will be open to the public from 4-9 p.m. nightly through Saturday, Aug. 19.

The always popular livestock shows are scheduled throughout the week.

The kiddie carnival opens on Thursday, Aug. 17, beginning at 6 p.m. The carnival continues Friday and Saturday nights as well, opening at 6 p.m. both evenings.

The Sevier County Premium Sale will

be held on Friday, Aug. 18, beginning at 10 a.m. A dinner for premium buyers will follow the sale.

That evening marks the first of the two-night De Queen Auto Group Ram Rodeo. The rodeo is scheduled for 8 p.m. both Friday and Saturday nights with mutton bustin’ to start at 7 p.m. both evenings. Sign up for mutton bustin’ will take place at 6 p.m.

For more information grab a fair catalog and make sure to check out the Sevier County Fair page on Facebook.

Dierks woman accused of stealing $52,000 from Booster Club

By Patrick Massey

DIERKS – A pre-trial hearing is scheduled next week for the former bookkeeper of the Dierks Booster Club accused of stealing over $52,000 from the organization.

According to records with the Howard County Circuit Court, 39-year-old Kacie Nicole Quinn of Dierks is set to appear for the hearing

on Aug. 9. If she maintains her plea of not guilty, a jury trial is currently scheduled for Aug. 29.

Quinn has been charged with a single count of theft of property in addition to two counts of fraudulent use of a credit/debit card.

Quinn is accused of stealing more than $52,000 over the course of a year from the Dierks Booster Club.

An investigation by the Dierks Po-

lice Department earlier this year determined funds were missing from the Dierks Booster Club. The Arkansas State Police was then called in to assist in the investigation. Authorities eventually tied the missing funds to Quinn, who is alleged to have transferred them to her personal account. Items purchased with the funds allegedly include beer, a personal massager and baby clothes.

All in all, the stolen funds amounted to around $52,000. Quinn is alleged to have stolen the funds between the summer of 2022 until the investigation earlier this year. The stolen funds were initially raised by the Dierks Booster Club through various fundraising efforts.

Dixon awarded Shelter Insurance Foundation scholarship from Kenny Miller

Submitted by Kenny H. Miller Jr.

The Shelter Insurance® Foundation awarded a $1,500 scholarship to Mia Dixon, a graduate of Cossatot River Schools. Shelter agent Kenny H. Miller Jr. sponsors and partially funds this scholarship.

Beginning the fall after the recipient’s high school graduation, Dixon can direct the scholarship funds toward tuition, fees, or campus housing for any course of study and leading to an academic degree at any accredited college or university.

A committee of local high school officials and community leaders selected the local recipient The committee considered each applicant’s scholastic achievements, educational goals, citizenship, moral character, and participation and leadership in school and community activities. The scholarship is given without regard to race, disability, religion, national origin or gender of applicants.

The scholarship is paid directly to the school the recipient selects. Dixon received a certificate from Miller on behalf of the Shelter Foundation.

The Shelter Insurance® Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation for charitable and educational purposes. It is sponsored by the Shelter lnsurance Companies — offering auto, home, life, farm and business insurance services to customers in 14 states via a network of local insurance agents and headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

Outdoors

Mena’s Chris Crawford honored as AGFC Game Warden of the Year

Submitted by AGFC

As Major Brian Aston of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission read off a three-minute list of some of the more amazing accomplishments of the officer he would announce Tuesday as the 2023 Sgt. Monty Carmikle Arkansas Game Warden of the Year, it struck some people in the audience that it was a wonder the winner would have time to attend the presentation, much less have much time away from his work.

The list ranged from saving a gunshot victim to helping pepper-sprayed high school students to rescuing a lost hunter, finding a missing 11-year-old girl, locating three individuals lost after a UTV accident and later providing aid to two more injured ATV riders in the same area. There were the two people he rescued from a camper fire, or the armed and dangerous felon he captured. He helped a group of officers and sheriff’s deputies clear students from 100 rooms at the University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain Community College following a bomb threat, and investigated numerous boating and hunting accidents. He had 66 interactions with regulations violators and found time to file 40 incident reports. Through all that,

he had the gruesome task of helping recover six boating accident victims.

And still, Chris Crawford finds much of the job he does “fun.”

“Absolutely. Absolutely,” the 17-year veteran of the Marine Corps who joined the AGFC in March of 2018 said Tuesday at the National Guard Armory at Camp Robinson. “I love the public. I love my job. You get to travel. In this job, you get to see aspects of law enforcement and deal with people that a lot of officers don’t get to, whether it’s on the waterways, the

lakes, the rivers, or out in the woods. Yeah, sure, we assist with some of the bad calls and the domestics and this and that, but being a part of the dayto-day life of the men and women out there just having fun in the woods and waterways, it’s a blast.”

ing to death.

Eight wardens were honored with certificates of commendation, while three others received a Warden’s Star and Lifesaving Medal. Cpl. Bradley Huggins, Cpl. Tyler Webb and Game Warden First Class Channing Sanders were instrumental in the rescue of a lost camper in the Winona WMA area when temperature had fallen to near freezing. They were honored with both the Warden’s Star and a Lifesaving Medal.

Crawford said, “Game and Fish is a wonderful agency, and I love my job. We always try to find that (balance) … I’ve been very blessed and I love the county I’m in. I’m home.” After leaving the Marine Corps, Crawford worked for one year in Bradley County and Warren before relocating to his hometown.

The one year of his achievements that Aston listed before the presentation seems like it could have filled all five-plus years at the AGFC.

Crawford, as Aston noted, also has participated during the past year in 12 public relations events, dedicating over 60 hours to these functions, and in the process reaching more than 60,000 people across the state.

Along with his plaque as Game Warden of the Year, and receiving a pin from last year’s honoree, Kurt VanMatre, Crawford received a Luminox Navy Seal watch as a gift from AGFC commissioners and specifically Bill Jones, who donated the timepiece from Sissy’s Log Cabin jewelers and plans to make the award an every-year honor.

Crawford also received an AGFC Lifesaving Medal, in which he saved a hunter who had been gored in his calf by a feral hog and was close to bleed-

“There’s been, Lord, I’m trying to remember all of them… I told them I’d rather chase a guy with a gun than the bomb threat at the college where me and several officers, deputies, cleared hundreds of rooms at the college evacuating it. So that was a long day. There’s been several boating accidents and hunting accidents,” he said.

Winning Game Warden of the Year left him “absolutely floored right now, I’m not going to lie. My knees got a little weak when they said (his name) because I couldn’t believe I would get this. It’s an honor. When you go through the (AGFC Enforcement) academy and you see the list of previous award winners and things that they had accomplished, and to have your name put up next to theirs, it’s touching.”

AGFC Game Warden First Class Chris Crawford (center) of Mena received the 2023 Sgt. Monty Carmikle Game Warden of the Year Award.

(Photo by Mike Wintroath)

Stillwell gets cover story in Buckmasters Whitetail Magazine

By Ethan Nahté

Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival writer and podcaster Steve Stillwell got the cover story this summer in Buckmasters Whitetail Magazine. The story is

Stillwell his life story, including obtaining a job transfer to Kansas, primarily for the hunting.

“He’s killed two deer that have scored over 200 class. That’s astronomical. Very few people will do that. Usually, if someone kills one, that’s it.”

Monroe spotted the buck the previous season. In 2022, he was deciding on the best plan to take it down.

“He was going to try and take it with a bow,” Stillwell said. “Because of the size of the deer, muzzleloading season had already kicked off, he knew the moon phase… everything was perfect. He said, ‘I’m not going to take a chance. I’m going to go ahead and kill him with the muzzleloader.’ That would’ve been a real accomplishment with a bow. This guy has killed a lot of good deer with bow.”

about Donnie Monroe, who shot the state record muzzleloading buck in Kansas in 2022, three days into muzzleloading season.

Stillwell said, “He’s from Indiana, originally. I have over 4,000 contacts on my Facebook, many of which are hunters. He posted a couple of pics of his deer. I contacted him and asked if he’d like to be interviewed for a magazine article.”

Monroe agreed and proceeded to tell

This buck, nicknamed Tiney Tim, outscored his previous Kansas 200-incher he downed in 2016. The 23-point whitetail grossed 230-4/8 inch. It broke the Buckmasters mark for the top “irregular” category for muzzleloader. Stillwell said it was an old deer.

He explained, “Buckmasters has their own scoring system apart from Boone and Crockett or Pope and Young.”

You can find Stillwell’s article in the Pre-season 2023 issue. You find Stillwell on Facebook by searching his name or Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival.