Polk County Pulse March 30, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

March 30, 2022

Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com INSIDE:

By Trey Youngdahl

Tigers Track Championship

Page 28

Mena will now have a new housing opportunity for residents, with the acquisition of the Limetree Inn by Christy and John Titsworth.

The Titsworths, owners of United Country Arkansas Properties, are no stranger to real estate. Though the two own the company, the acquisition and remodeling project is being done independently from the business. The new apartment complex will be called Creekside Apartments.

While they are still in the development phase of the project, improvements are already being made to the property, such as renovating the building’s roof.

“We hope within two years to have the project complete. Our first goal is to get some of the apartments ready,” Christy said. “We hope within about two months to have some to get started. We’re going to try to get five to ten (apartments) available and we’re

Golden Easter Egg Winner

Page 4

The Limetree Inn & Restaurant is in the process of being renovated, soon to become the Creekside Apartments.

(Trey Youngdahl.Pulse)

Breast Cancer Screening

Page 11

going to go ahead and start putting out applications probably within a couple of weeks.”

Once finished, all rooms will have been completely updated and remodeled. The complex is projected to have around 50 apartments available.

What was once the Limetree restaurant will now be turned into a 9,000 square foot Clubhouse for residents of the complex.

“It will have a laundromat, a playroom with games, pool tables and a weight room,” Christy said. “Eventually, our real estate office will be moved down there. We will also have the pool available.”

The site is currently closed off to visitors. The Titsworths ask that people refrain from walking into or through the property at this time.

Autism Awareness Month Losing is winning

By Ethan Nahté

April is designated as World Autism Month, beginning with United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on Saturday, April 2.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), a sampling of 8-year-old children living in 11 areas of the United States during 2018 show that 2.3% landed on the autism spectrum, 23 children per every thousand. The boys outnumbered the girls almost 4 to 1, with 3.7% versus 0.9%. The disorder does not seem to be more prevalent among race/ ethnicity. Autism spectrum disorder is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the United States. ASD is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined.

There are several Polk County residents who are on the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) cannot function in regular society.

A prime example is 10-year-old Drew Mabry, who will be 11 in April. Drew is the 2022 Polk County Spelling Bee champion.

The son of Jennifer and Leo Mabry, Drew, is a creative child who appears to have a positive outlook, along with a few awards to his name.

His knowledge and talents do not make him unique, but Drew’s accomplishments might be considered a mountain climbed by some.

Jennifer first suspected something was “going haywire” when Drew was about 11 months old. His father did not want to accept it.

Leo, a SPED (special education) teacher at Acorn High School, said, “One of my best friends, who is like a brother to me, started making little suggestions, because he works with special needs kids up in northwest Arkansas. I didn’t want to hear it, because when it comes to your son or your daughter…”

See MABRY continued on page 7

2 News

March 30, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

How to Make Tax Season a Breeze

(StatePoint) While filing taxes can be anxiety-provoking, there’s no need to stress. The right digital tools, along with smart strategies can make tax season a breeze: File Faster There are many services to help you e-file your taxes, walking you through each step for a quick, painless way to get your tax return faster. In some cases, you may be able to file for free, or for just a small fee. More accurate than paper filing, e-filing through a service such as TurboTax or TaxAct can offer peace of mind for an audit-free tax season.

Watch for Scams Scammers are known to use seasonal moments like filing taxes in the spring or insurance enrollment in the fall to prey on unsuspecting people, and these scams are on the rise. In fact, recent T-Mobile network data showed over a 116% increase in scam attempts from 2020 to 2021. Here’s how to protect yourself: Be suspicious of unexpected calls. The IRS will never demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten action from law enforcement. You have the right to dispute any charges with the IRS. Don’t answer unknown numbers.

Even if the number on your phone looks legitimate, if you suspect it’s a scam, let it go to voicemail. If it sounds too good to be true, it might be a scam. If you need to return the call, don’t call the number provided, instead, locate the customer service number online.

Beware of Facebook messages.Scammers can also contact you by email, text and social media. Know that the IRS will never contact you through these channels.

Get scam call protection. Today, most major wireless providers have tools to help customers prevent scam calls. For example, T-Mobile gives customers free scam identification, free scam blocking and free Caller ID with Scam Shield.

Scam Shield is built into the heart of the T-Mobile network and updates every

six minutes as new threats are detected, keeping customers better protected and identifying or blocking an average 1.8 billion calls monthly. T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile customers can download Scam Shield in the Google Play or App Store. Sprint customers can get scam protection through the Call Protect app.

Use Your Tax Return Wisely Whether you owe the government money or have a tax return coming your way, it’s a good time of year to think about where you can make smart budgeting decisions and save. Many people never look at their wireless bill as a place to save money but did you know that switching to T-Mobile from AT&T or Verizon’s premium unlimited plans can save a family of four up to $1,000 per year on service? And not only will you save on your bill, T-Mobile’s Magenta and Magenta MAX plans are packed with additional value, including a Netflix subscription and a free year of Paramount+ and Apple TV+ as well as free stuff and discounts every week with T-Mobile Tuesdays.

Prefer paying for your wireless service in advance? Consider switching to Metro by T-Mobile, where a family of four on Metro’s top plan can save up to $720 annually on service compared to Boost’s premium plan. Metro by T-Mobile customers also get more value with T-Mobile Tuesdays, Google One cloud storage included and a free Amazon Prime membership.

And how about a free phone while you’re at it? At both T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile, you can bring the phone you already love or pick up a free new 5G phone. At T-Mobile, get a free Samsung Galaxy S22 when trading-in an eligible device on Magenta MAX or eligible Sprint plan or get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G when you switch to Metro by T-Mobile.

With some smart planning and knowhow, you can have a pain-free tax season and financially-savvy year.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Letters 3

March 30, 2022

Radio - Print - Web 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: Ashley Smith - General Manager Ethan Nahté - Production Manager Trey Youngdahl - Reporter / Photographer Patrick Massey - Contributing Reporter John Russell - Graphic Design Curt Teasdale - Programmer / On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Jodi Croft - Account Executive Ariel Varner - Receptionist 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.

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Your Pulse!

Letter to the Editor: I was glad to see the letter from Mary Meier in the Pulse last week. I agree somewhat with her statements. I also am handicapped and understand the issues of being handicapped. I agree that the alley she is speaking about should be fixed. Yes, the city has spent money on lots of various projects, most which are needed. But they do not have money for everything.

Ms. Meier didn’t mention the greatly needed repairs on Main/Mena Street, which have been finished. It has been needed for a very long time.

Yes, the handicapped are often treated as second-class citizens. Some people are courteous to them, many are not. Why isn’t there more places

that have handicapped parking available? Some stores do, most have no spots, and some have only 2-3 spots often in places that are not handy for the handicapped.

Also, why do people not handicapped park in the spots reserved for handicapped park in those spots?

They just don’t care! They want to get a closer spot. The handicapped either have a license plate that indicates they are handicapped or they have a thing that hangs on the rear view mirror inside the vehicle (this is what we have).

Ever wonder how banning the small percentage of Russian oil (12%) that we import could make such an immediate difference at the pump. Given the threat the current Russian government poses to the world, why do we import from them to begin with, and in turn fund their acts of aggression against others?

I went to Google to see how much oil we exported. Statistics were from the year 2021 and stated we export to 176 countries and 4 US territories. The exports were crude oil and refined products (gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, heating oil and propane). The USA exported in 2021 8.6 million barrels per day of the combined oil products. In 2021 the USA imported 8.47 million barrels per day (bio fuel, diesel, gasoline, hydrocarbon gas liquids, and crude oil) from 73 countries. In the EIA (U.S. Energy Information Administration) article that I sourced my data from for this article, it was stated we were a net petroleum exporter by .16 million barrels per day.

This struck me as odd that we exported more than we imported. Rather than reduce our exports to compensate for not allowing Russian oil imports, prices were raised here, immediately.

Not to be mercenary or insensitive, but why should we pay the increase and not spread the increase on to the other countries we export to, or export 12% less. More importantly, why are we exporting anything in the first place that is not in excess of domestic use?

I may have an unrealistic view here and the solutions may be more complicated than I realize, but I do not get why we do not do anything but continue to be at the mercy of other countries. I am not advocating isolation from the world, but a level playing field would be nice.

Protect our technology and jobs from nations that treat us unfair in the market place. How much do these countries import from the U.S., other than petroleum products, and why are we experiencing such a trade deficit? Why do we allow U.S. companies to have manufacturing facilities abroad and not place import tariffs sufficient to incentivize their return to the U.S.?

Too much American blood and treasure has been spilled abroad to insure our future is free from tyranny and the whole world is a safer place for us all.

Yet we continue to fund that same tyranny by what we consume as a nation.

Ask yourself when you are making buying decisions at the store who gains and who loses from your purchase. If our government does not hear our concerns, let them hear our spending, or lack thereof.

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

Thanks for your time, ~Donna Lay, Mena

With kindest regards and respect, Ronald Goss, Mena, U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran, Retired Virginia Beach Police Department

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.

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 dropbox 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

4 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

Golden Easter Egg winners

Teagan Beaty and Cody Hilton found the first Golden Easter Egg, earning themselves a check for $250.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

The first Golden Easter Egg has been found by Teagan Beaty and Cody Hilton. Friday, Beaty and Hilton listened to the clue on KENA 104.1 FM and collected the clues from the sponsors, starting with the Coffee Vault. It led them to McMillan Park Beaty, a Nidec employee, had Friday off when a friend texted her stating she was on her way, and they went on the search along with Cody Hilton.

Beaty said, “We almost didn’t go by the all of the spots for the hints, because we just thought it was going to be one business per day” Luckily, the owner of the Coffee Vault told them the clues were all available the same day.

“We first went by McMillan because all the hints were toward McMillan,” Beaty said. “We looked all up and down there, just every nook and cranny, which there weren’t many.”

“It was hidden well,” Hilton said.

“I saw the signs for Ethan, Wes and Ben, and decided to look in the bushes there. That’s where I found it,” Beaty said with a smile, “the pool at McMillan.”

Beaty said another group was searching for an hour before they arrived.

Beaty said a woman told them it was nowhere to be found, and she had already looked.

It turns out the woman from the other group was parked right in front of the bush where the egg was hidden.

“I’m sure she was not happy,” Beaty said, slightly embarrassed.

It had taken Beaty and her friends an hour to find the egg once they got to the park., discovering the golden prize around 11 a.m. then bringing it to the Pulse Multi-Media office to claim her prize.

For the second Golden Easter Egg, see details on page 18 and listen to KENA this Friday morning, April Fool’s Day to begin your search.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

March 30, 2022

From the

State House of Representatives

Whether it was due to a job loss, determine eligibility for a specific reduction in income or increased county, go to arkansashaf.com/ costs in healthcare, many homequalify. owners fell behind in mortgage Funds for qualified recipients payments and utilities during the will be provided directly to mortpandemic. gage companies, internet compaIf you or someone you know nies, and utility providers. is behind on payments, we want Eligible homeowners are enJohn Maddox to direct your attention to a recouraged to apply through the source that could help. online portal at: apply.arkanRecently, the Arkansas Development sashaf.com or contact our call center at Finance Authority (ADFA) announced it 888.698.0964. Call center hours are 8 a.m. is now distributing the state’s $54 million to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 to homeowners who were impacted by a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

COVID-19.

Applicants will need the following to apArkansas was one of the first states to ply: gain the US Treasury approval for the 1) Valid ID for applicant (spouse or funds. The Arkansas Homeowner Assis- co-borrower if applicable) tance Fund is a federally-funded program 2) Proof of homeownership helping Arkansas residents who are behind 3) Income documentation on their mortgages, electricity, gas and/or 4) Documents showing mortgage delininternet payments. quency Eligibility is determined by need and household income. Homeowners must The income limits vary based on counhave a total annual household income of ty and the number of occupants in your less than 150% of the area median income household. When you apply online, after of their county. The maximum total annu- entering some basic information, you will al household income for a family of four see the income limitations specific to you. ranges from $81,150 to $112,350, dependWe’ve posted links for more information ing upon the county in which they live. To on our website 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 The Arkansas tourism induscategory is employment figures try is recovering from the devcompiled by the federal Bureau astating impact of the Covid-19 of Labor Statistics. pandemic.

The employment statistics Based on collections of the indicate that Arkansas has not state two percent tourism completely rebounded from tax, the industry now exceeds the pandemic. For the first ten pre-pandemic levels of econommonths of 2021 the average Larry Teague ic activity. However, other gaugnumber of jobs in the tourism es of tourism indicate that fewer sector was about 111,500. That is people are working at Arkansas hotels better than 2020, when the average was than in 2019.

103,650, but it is still below 2019, when The two percent tourism tax is colthe average number of jobs in tourism lected when people rent hotel rooms, was 122,900. condominiums, lodges, motor courts Northwest Arkansas is the only area and other accommodations. It also is in the state which has seen job growth collected from campground fees and in the tourism sector above pre-panboat rentals. It is added into the price of demic levels. In 2019 the average numtourist attractions. ber of tourist-related jobs in the area In 2021 the state collected $20.5 milwas 26,000. It is not 26,500. lion from the tax, which was a record.

Many cities levy an advertising and In 2020, when the tourism industry promotion tax, or a hospitality tax. was affected by restrictions due to the Sometimes it is colloquially known as a Covid-19 pandemic, collections from “hamburger tax.” the tourism tax were $13.6 million. That During the first ten months of 2021, was the lowest it had been since 2013. hospitality taxes in 17 Arkansas cities Revenue from the tourism tax pays were up more than 30 percent from for the state’s marketing budget.

2020. They were up 5.6 percent from According to the director of the state 2019. tourism department, Arkansas came In total, the 17 cities collected $47.8 through the pandemic better than other million in hospitality taxes in the first states that are competing for the tourten months of 2021. Of that amount, ists. One reason is that Arkansas quickrestaurant taxes, also known as prely stopped marketing in other states, so pared food taxes, accounted for about as not to waste dollars on advertising $36.5 million, compared to $33 million campaigns when people were not travcollected in the same period of 2019. eling.

The tourism department adapted its Tourists and visitors to Arkansas marketing strategy in response to the spent about $6 billion in 2020, down pandemic. Previously the state tourism from about $8 billion in 2019. magazine, which is digital, was titled The state Tourism Ticker is spon“Discover Arkansas.” sored by the Arkansas Hospitality AsIn recognition that long-distance sociation and operated by Talk Busitravel was most affected by the panness & Politics, news-gathering website. demic, the department changed the The ticker measures the health of the title of the magazine to “Rediscover Artourism industry using three categokansas.” It changes the target audience ries. One is revenue from hospitality to Arkansas residents and urged them taxes collected by 17 Arkansas cities to get to know the tourist destinations and towns. Another is revenue from the close to their homes. state two percent tourism tax. The third

6 Community Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System MARCH 18, 2022 TO MARCH 25, 2022 Macayla & Mathew Everly of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Mar.19th Morgan & Luke Richmond of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Mar. 22nd

Grace is not a call to carelessness or disobedience: It is a call to come to Jesus Christ and walk in His footsteps…even if it leads to a cross. (And it very well might do so. The world that crucified Jesus has not gotten better!).

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March 30, 2022

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Around Town Spring Revival at the Vandervoort First Baptist Church, 107 Fourth Street, beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, April 7 and 8. There will be a fish fry Saturday at 5 p.m. with a service to follow at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

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 870-3852373.

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 479216-7249.

The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4pm - 6pm, located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call 479-437-4018.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn located at the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479216-3786.

Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room. Starting at 7-10 p.m.

Come “Pick-N-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome.

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.

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

Free to anyone in need.

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center is putting together a bean bag baseball team, having an Easter hat contest on April 15 and celebrating our seniors birthdays every 3rd Tuesday of the month. Contact Trena Hodge with questions (479)394-5459.

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.

Homesteading Today – A public monthly forum for sharing growing, canning, animal husbandry and prepping for the future. All ages welcome. First Monday of each month at the Farmhouse Store, 819 Mena Street, 5:30 p.m.

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 Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8 p.m.

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

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

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

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022 MABRY continued from page 1

Jennifer said, “He had been an educator for so long, he knows what happens in the school districts. We have good school districts. I’m not trying to put them down, but parents need to know it’s a fight to make sure you have what your child needs. It is your responsibility as a parent to go in and advocate for your child and for the children coming up after them.

“We hope that we’ve made such a difference that it’s not just Drew that’s been successful, but that we’ve opened pathways that schools are thinking about the children coming behind him; that all of them are educated. There are things you can do besides sticking them in a room and saying that they didn’t cry today, so they were successful.

How about they didn’t cry that day and they learned a letter, or they learned how to hold a pencil and make a triangle? Let’s come up with real goals.”

“That are applicable in real life,” Leo added.

“Drew’s in a regular gen ed classroom. He does have an aid, a paraprofessional, that goes with him everywhere, for now.” Jennifer said, describing Drew’s school day.

ASD Assessment Jennifer said, “We need to say that De Queen-Mena Education Service Cooperative—the early preschool program, the ABC program—that team and those people are the early interventionalist. Every one of them should be applauded. It’s the silent group that nobody even knows exists. They screen all the children coming in for preschool if they’re going to go to a public preschool.”

To get started, tell them you suspect autism. They’ll start doing assessments.

“Those assessments are what we took when we went to the hospital. We went in with a whole folder and videos of what Drew was doing. Dennis Developmental Center is the branch of Arkansas Children’s Hospital that does diagnosis for autism and other things. You’ve got to have three: A psychologist, a pediatric and a speech pathologist that all agree it’s autism. Our De Queen-Mena Educational Cooperative speech pathologist at the time was Mandy. She was on standby.

She said if we got there and needed a speech path to sign off on it, she would agree to that.”

When Jennifer took Drew in to be assessed with the preschool, she was in there all of five minutes before Drew had what she termed a total and complete meltdown. They called her back in, said they would have to officially complete their assessment, but they could already tell Drew was severely autistic.

time.”

Jennifer Mabry is on the board of PCDC, BASE of the Ouachitas (Building, Accepting, Supporting, Educating), and AAROC (The Arkansas Autism Resource & Outreach Center), and vice-president of all three. She currently works as an executive assistant at Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, after spending four years with the Ouachita River School District, where her husband Leo teaches.

Leo was LEA (Local Education Agency) during the 2020-2021 school year but resigned. He was also the SPED supervisor in addition to teaching six periods of special education, which combined, got to be overwhelming.

LEA is over the special education and how funds should be distributed to salaried employees and for the children’s needs. It’s Leo’s fourth year working in special education. He has taught literacy, English, and in several other fields throughout his 16-year career.

Drew Mabry and his family have created success Leo said, “With special education, it despite being told he’d never be able to do things requires heart and patience that I never like a normal child.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse) knew existed inside of me. These kids They developed a plan. Drew could only are amazing. With Drew’s diagnosis and attend preschool the first half of the day. He what we’ve gone through with our son, it would not potty train, could not use a pub- opens up the possibilities of what children lic toilet. Several people from therapists to behavioralists came into the Mabry’s lives to assist and train.

Making A Difference Leo said, “Most people don’t realize that just speaking and putting a little effort can make a lifelong difference to a momma or daddy that’s at wit’s end. Just having somebody that cares. Somebody that will listen or make you believe that you’re not crazy.”

“You do feel like you’re kind of lost,” Jennifer said.

Drew smiled and said, “That’s when I met Miss Bohlman. She treats me like I’m her favorite person. She was my first-grade teacher.”

Amanda Bohlman, the Adaptive Educational Service (AES) teacher at Acorn was also Drew’s kindergarten teacher. He also had assistance from his aide, Tracy McPherson.

Leo said, “These people made lifelong changes just because they cared and were willing to listen.”

“When Drew gets to graduation, we want those people to know they didn’t just change that moment. They were literally a step in changing Drew’s life,” Jennifer said. “He went from not talking, not functioning, to he’s just pretty chill and pretty cool with us all the

News 7 with special needs can do. Often times the expectations are set pretty low for individuals with disabilities.

Jennifer said, “We set the bar super high and see where he lands and not limit him.”

Leo said, “We were told numerous times that our son would probably be always self-contained; that our son would never be able to speak. We pushed and we kept looking for numerous resources. We wouldn’t take ‘No’ for an answer. You see what the reality is now with our son.

“Where I think so many people miss with our message is that there’s hope… . When you have someone who is such an inspiration as our son, who was told ‘You’re not going to be able to do these things,’ and now he’s competed in the state spelling bee… .”

Spelling Champ The competition was held at the Arkansas 4-H Center in Little Rock, March 5. Approximately 61,500 students from 393 schools in 56 counties across Arkansas competed to whittle it down to the final 52 students.

Drew studied hard with his mom, learning 3,000 words that might potentially appear during the spelling bee.

“It wasn’t like the stress that I’ve dealt

see MABRY continued on page 8

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8 News MABRY continued from page 7

Drew’s Spelling Bee Stats:

Kindergarten – First place First Grade – First place + third place for second grade Second Grade – First place Third Grade – First place Fourth Grade – First place for fourth, fifth and sixth grade + second place for seventh grade Fifth Grade – First place for fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grade + overall Polk County Spelling Bee winner “I made it all the way to the seventh grade in the fourth grade. This year I won the whole Polk County Spelling Bee,” Drew said with a proud smile.

He finished 12th in state out of 52 competitors.

“I was the first one there and the last to spell,” Drew said.

The Arkansas-Democrat Gazette interviewed Drew after the spelling bee, which Drew enjoyed. He said, “I saw one of my coaches at the school, we were in the parking lot at Walmart, and we talked. Eventually, I reached a point where I said, ‘That interview felt good, and I’m pretty sure it’s not the last one.’”

March 30, 2022 His parents laughed, teasing about how humble is.

ABA Therapy Jennifer said, “We’re just proud that he got up there because of things we were told he would never be able to do. Drew was extreme severe in the beginning of our diagnosis. In preschool, he is the reason the preschool room had to install locks and a bell. He made it all the way out to the parking lot. He’s a runner. He had no speech. He could not sit on the carpet with his peers. Drew would sit in a laundry basket. He could not keep his body still. We have done over thirty-five hundred hours of ABA therapy in our home.”

ABA is Applied Behavior Analysis. Some of the issues it approaches in a manner that is unique to each person are goal behaviors to increase language and communication skills; improving attention, focus, social skills, memory and academic; decreasing problem behaviors, all with positive reinforcement.

Jennifer said, “The sooner the child can be diagnosed; the sooner the parent thinks there’s something going on—it was a real big struggle to say there’s something wrong with your child.

It’s also a struggle to have people analyze them and tell you horrible things you don’t want to hear about your own child.”

The Mabry’s heard things like “severely delayed” or “mentally retarded.”

Leo said, “That hits in your heart, because to you, your child is perfect.”

Jennifer said, “There’s so many cool things about him. He can do all of this, but he was delayed in so many areas. There is a program, when you finally do receive a medical diagnosis, that is the Arkansas Partnership Waiver Program. It does therapy in the home. You have to qualify for it before the child turns five. They train the parents how to do ABA therapy.”

Arkansas Autism Partnership is the Medicaid waiver program for young children with autism between the ages of 18 months and 8 years.

“Because of that, Leo, besides teaching special education, is a lead therapist for that program in the state,” Jennifer said. “They have fought in legislature for tons of years to get it passed through. Arkansas is actually one of the best states to live in if you do have an autism diagnosis. They have one of the most forward thinking for children with disabilities for 911 that you can set up. You can list a child’s disability, what they might look like, you update a picture every year, so if a call goes out to dispatch, they are supposed to be told that this is a registered child with a disability so when they go to a home, this is what you can expect. This is what their dog looks like. This is what their cars look like.”

Leo said, “Here’s the reality. We’re looking at statistics that were once one in one hundred sixty kids would be diagnosed to one in forty will be diagnosed with some form of autism.

This is the new reality. Who knows why? Regardless of the why, this is the reality the schools and communities will be facing. It’s not just something we can turn a blind eye to.”

Writing Success Jennifer said, “We need to incorporate them into doing more things. They have such a heightened sensitivity to certain things. They can be a big asset to the community as a whole.

There are things they can do, but they might not be able to do certain things. If the community can embrace that and find ways to actually employ people. They’re not a burden on society because we’re not having to pay their way.

That’s part of my push with PCDC. It’s a sheltered workshop for those who can’t work out in the public. There’s actually a program in PCDC where if the community would hire, there are people who could work certain hours.

“We want Drew to be successful. We push him.”

When asked what his vision for the future is, Drew replied, “I don’t want to hurry myself, honestly.”

A couple of possibilities may include becoming a writer or artist. There is a video of Drew reading his short story “Amazing Andrew: The Wheels Fall Off” and displaying the accompanying art on the Arkansas PBS kid’s page https://www.myarkansaspbs.org/kids/ writerscontest/2020/amazing_andrew_-_the_ wheels_fall_off/. Drew won first place in the third grader category in 2020 “It was pretty fun. I actually did something I

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse had never done before and I ended up winning.”

Drew’s superhero story stars the Amazing Andrew battling the Hypnotizer. It includes his parents and 8-year-old sister Vee as characters at the mercy of the villain.

He’s now working on a new short story, “The Amazing Andrew: The Great Spell Off,” influenced by his recent activities.

Jennifer said, “He’s going to try and compile several short stories and I’m going to see if I can get it published. He is super funny all the time.

He has an amazing sense of humor. He doesn’t even mean to be funny… .”

Losing Is Winning His father asked Drew what his message is with the new book since he didn’t win the state championship. Drew replied, “Losing is winning. Once you’ve already got on that stage, you know, you’ve won the entire Polk County Spelling Bee just to get here. To get on that stage and compete against fifty-two other people, that takes a lot of guts.”

Jennifer said, “It was a good experience overall. There were so many good people there.

Their judges were so kind. What was really amazing, of course they didn’t say it out loud, we felt like probably half of the kids in the State Spelling Bee were probably on the spectrum at some point. There was a difference. We think they’re not the disabled. We think they’re the very abled.”

Artist Drew reads all the time. He enjoys books such as “Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen and the Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey.

“Dav Pilkey is his favorite,” Jennifer said. “He likes graphic novels.”

Leo said, “He taught himself how to draw all the characters. Now he’s able to draw a lot of his own illustrations for The Amazing Andrew.”

Vee said, “In the back of the book [‘Dog Man’] it shows you how to draw everything, so he’s learned how to draw them.”

“We actually removed Drew from kindergarten,” his mom said, “in the first month because he was the only kid who didn’t have anything going to the fair for artwork. We fought and fought. He is capable. We need [the school] to push him to do what everybody else is doing.

They just said that he hates art. He’s never going to draw. He’s never going to like it. Now, Drew loves to draw all the time.”

Drew said just before they came to the Pulse office, “I was drawing on my easel a poster of the face of Venom and an angry Mario face.”

Achieving Goals Jennifer said. “His very first session of ABA, they looked across and said, ‘What is it that you want most as a parent?’ We wanted him to interact and play with his sister. His first goal was thirty seconds of interaction with his sister.”

“He used to hate me,” Vee said.

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Pulse

Granted, that’s a bit of a universal feeling between siblings. Jennifer clarified, “He didn’t acknowledge she existed in the room. They had no interaction whatsoever… We worked for a month to get thirty seconds of interaction.”

Leo said, “It’s work. Most people don’t understand that.”

“There is no magic fix,” Jennifer said. “It’s a constant push for the next thing. It’s a constant being aware of what’s coming up next for him and planning for the next thing. He has severe allergies. He has twelve different food allergens.

“We’ve done a huge diet change. That’s a big part of it. When Drew eats certain things, that makes the autism worse. Diet plays an extreme part in his health and his ability to function.

Your gut is your second brain. If you don’t control what’s going into it, then your brain’s not going to be able to function. You’re already neurologically not able to push out the toxins that a normal human body does. It settles in there and that’s when you start getting the toxicity that affects you neurologically. People don’t realize there is such a tie together.”

The family not only pays attention to Drew’s needs, but has a network of friends who have someone with something not deemed “normal,” yet they look beyond that.

Jennifer said, “We’re the family that has tried to really focus on seeing people and their diseases, and what is going on. We really try to, not just superficially say, ‘Oh, it’s so terrible for you,’ but see if there is something we can do to lend a helping hand.”

Leo said, “It’s weird, because the more that you serve and the more that you open your heart, you start to see people differently. We have a friend that, her daughter, has a lot of facial things going on. It’s amazing how your perception will change, as you serve, and you start to understand.”

“You forget that,” Jennifer said.

Leo said, “You don’t see the outward stuff.

You start to see the beauty on the inside. That’s what, as a teacher, is my job to see the beauty and the potential on the inside, regardless of the behaviors and all these other things people call limitations. That’s what we want for Drew. We don’t want people to see the autism.”

Jennifer said, “That was the thing when we went to the State Spelling Bee. We planned it ahead so we could tour the facility; see where he was going to stand on the stage. You have to frontload the situation, so he knows what to expect. Once he gets in there, he’s cool, and can run the gamut of what you’re asking him to do. He knows what he needs to expect to get in there.

“We told them, once we went through the walk-through, that we wanted the rest of the competition to not be about Drew’s autism.

Sometimes it’s ‘Drew, the one with the autism.’

Sometimes, we just want it to be Drew, and nobody know. When we go on vacations, we try and limit how many times we say autism, be-

March 30, 2022 cause we want to see how he’s doing in the world without them saying ‘Oh, he’s got this.’”

Leo said, “Plus, the world doesn’t always accommodate. It should. The federal laws are out there and in place, but just because the laws are there doesn’t mean they’re always going to be followed.”

Interaction Drew said, “We’re doing this thing in my bedroom called The Hot Wheels Grand Prix. I have all these tracks my cars can race on. One of them was built from scratch.” He races with his sister, and they act like they’re performing on YouTube.

Vee said she helps her brother act like a regular child. “If he can see other children playing regular, I can see that.” She mentioned another playmate who has improved a lot in similar circumstances and interacting.

Vee added, “Drew is obsessed with dancing.

He dances all the time.”

His mom said, “He loves to sing and dance.”

“When I won the Polk County Spelling Bee, I literally did a toe touch,” Drew said.

“Even when he had no words,” his mom said, “we could always communicate with music. He loves music, he plays piano, he has almost perfect pitch, he’s excellent at singing and a pretty good little dancer.

His father added, “He’s amazing at kick boxing.”

Leo demonstrated how Drew originally began punching, with his fists curled in beneath his wrists, explaining how many of the autistic kids have neurological issues, but now has gotten his punches down properly.

Leo said, “I think just because things don’t come easily to some individuals with autism, doesn’t mean they can’t get it. We [people] give up so quickly. Those things that are different, we often don’t embrace those.

“When you’re around individuals on the spectrum, it doesn’t take long to pick up on those differences.”

Jennifer named several people, children and adults, with ASD, stating,”…there are a ton of people in the Mena area who are autistic, and most people don’t realize it.”

Leo said, “We’re down certified educators in the state. We need qualified educators, especially special educators. I know every meeting I go to, I’m the only male and I look around, and most of these amazing ladies are in the late 50s and 60s. What happens when we can’t fill those roles? These babies need loving, caring individuals who can bring forth all the amazing things inside of them. I know from my son has been able to do that every one of these kids can be amazing if they just have someone that can see it. They’re smart. They just learn things differently.”

Drew’s creativity doesn’t end there. He also wants to direct movies, or possibly become a Foley artist.

Near-Divorce The time, dedication, and stress can take a toll. Jennifer said, “We truly know what it feels like that there’s no hope and you’re drowning.

Leo and I were almost divorced over it. He refused to allow Drew to be called that, not allowing him to be labeled. We just had to do something to get him help.

“I was struggling, then I found out I was pregnant [with Vee] and I cried and cried and cried. I couldn’t imagine having another child and dealing with that on top of what I was dealing with.”

Many parents blame themselves, but parents do not and cannot cause ASD. Although the multiple causes of ASD are not known, it is known that parental behavior before, during and after pregnancy does not cause ASD. Jennifer said, “Of course, Vee has been the best thing in the whole world. God had a plan.

That’s why she’s here, because He knew what Drew was going to need before we knew what Drew was going to need, and they’re the best of friends.

“I told Leo I just remember we were about in divorce, and I felt like I just could not go another day. I just felt like if I hadn’t had him, he wouldn’t be suffering, we wouldn’t be in this situation, I had personally done something wrong by choosing to have children. I can remember praying, ‘God, if You will give me the ability to help him, I swear I will tell every soul that ever asks me, I will share anything they’ll ever want, I will personally pour myself out if You will just make it where he can function.’

“It was after that when things really did change. We really started pushing. It’s hard work. It’s setbacks sometimes. There are times it doesn’t feel like we’re stepping forward, but somehow, the next step comes, and the next person that cares, comes along and help us. We want to be those people for the people coming up behind us.”

“And there’s going to be more of them,” Leo said.

Scars Drew said, “I believe autism is just like, yesterday, we learned this song called ‘Under your Scars.’ The people who made this song have this Scars Foundation. They help disabled children.”

The song and Scars Foundation are the brainchild of Sully Erna and the band Godsmack to help raise awareness of the mental health issues so many are faced with today.

“People who have thoughts of suicide and addiction,” his mom added.

“People like me.” Drew said. “I think that’s really huge, because they’re also trying to step in and say, ‘Hey, we want to help, too.’ They don’t want to be there and say, ‘Hey, that’s terrible for you guys.’ They want to help.”

Drew thinks he’s been able to help other people, although he admits, his own journey has not been easy.

“In my perspective, I actually had a lot of fun,

News 9 but I also had a little bit of frustration. It’s not like I can remember all of my early years.”

He does not feel like children with autism are different from other children. “They just have a scar that everyone wants to make fun of. Scars are like things you get in battles, and you just have to embrace them, because there’s beauty behind those scars.”

Vee agreed you have to have patience if you are a sibling who has an autistic brother or sister, “You stay with them, even if you get bored, you stay and maybe you can learn something, too.”

There are times when Drew may not explain the rules of a game or that something might be dangerous that his sister will explain or show things to him, helping to protect her brother.

When asked by his parents who defines us, as a person, Drew answered, “God, the Guy who built us from dirt…The Guy who has already planned the future for me perfectly.”

Right now, the family’s future is planning for a fun time once school is out. Besides deciding which direction to take his superhero story, Drew has plans for riding rollercoasters with his family this summer. He’s waiting to ride the fastest, most thrilling rollercoaster available with seven inversions.

See the full Losing is Winning interview at MyPulseNews.com

10 News

March 30, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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Governor Hutchinson Declares March 20-26 as Arkansas Agriculture Week and March as Arkansas Peanut Month

LITTLE ROCK, AR – During a ceremony today at the State Capitol, Governor Hutchinson joined agriculture leaders and industry partners in declaring March 20 – 26 as Arkansas Agriculture Week and March as Peanut Month in Arkansas. The proclamations highlight the agriculture industry as a whole, the state’s peanut industry, and the value both contribute to Arkansas’s economy. The full proclamations can be found at https:// bit.ly/ARagweek and https://bit.ly/ ARpeanut.

“Agriculture is Arkansas’s largest industry, providing one in six jobs in the state and contributing more than $19.4 billion annually to our economy,” said Governor Hutchinson. “Additionally, the peanut industry is one of Arkansas’s many great success stories.

Our ranking as the seventh-largest producer of peanuts in the nation is a testimony to the hard work of our farmers.”

“Arkansas is a national leader in agriculture, ranking in the top 25 nationally for the production of 16 different agricultural commodities,” said Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward. “Arkansas led the nation in yield-per acre for peanuts in 2021 at 5,000 pounds per acre. With 35,000 acres harvested last year, the value of Arkansas’s peanut crop is more than $42 million.”

Representatives from Hormel Foods World Headquarters, which owns Skippy and Planters brands, attended the event with their mascots, Skippy and Mr. Peanut. Also in attendance were representatives of Delta Peanut, Birdsong, Arkansas Peanut Growers

Mr. Peanut and the Skippy mascots made an appearance at the state capitol. (Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Agriculture) Association, U.S. Department of Agriculture, AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, Riceland Foods, and other agriculture industry stakeholders.

“As owners of both the Skippy brand and the Planters brand with locations

right here in Arkansas, we are thrilled to be here with the Governor to help celebrate the proclamation for Arkansas Peanut Month,” said Rick Williamson, corporate communications, Hormel Foods.

Gov. Hutchinson speaks with agricultural and industry guests for Arkansas Peanut Month. (Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Agriculture)

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March 30, 2022

News 11

Boozman delivers legislative victories for women veterans WASHINGTON (March 24, 2022) – The U.S. Senate unanimously approved a pair of legislative initiatives championed by Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee senior member U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) to modernize breast cancer screening policies and the delivery of lifesaving care for women veterans.

The Senate passed the “Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas Supporting Expanded Review for Veterans in Combat Environments (SERVICE) Act” on Thursday afternoon. This legislation would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct mammograms for all women who served in areas associated with burn pits and other toxic exposures regardless of age, symptoms or family history.

Also approved this week was the “Making Advances in Mammography and Medical Options (MAMMO) for Veterans Act” which would require the VA develop a strategic plan to improve breast imaging services, create a telemammography pilot program for veterans in areas where VA does not offer in-house mammography, and expand veterans’ access to clinical trials through partnerships with the National Cancer Institute.

“Early detection and treatment are key in the fight against breast cancer. Given the additional risk

factors associquired it. We ated with toxic should be telling exposure, which military women we know has octhese things and curred in recent arranging the combat settings, standard of care the VA must upfor preventive date its policies medicine around so vulnerable these increased veterans can reodds ratios. Put ceive mammosimply, I needgrams. Taking ed that mamfull advantage of mogram soonthe VA’s unique er,” Dr. Thomcapabilities and as shared with Sen. John Boozman resources will the Senate Comhelp ensure they mittee on Veterget the best care available. I’m ans’ Affairs in written testimony pleased the Senate has taken this last summer in support of the important step and I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to follow our example and quickly approve these bills so they can be signed into law,” Boozman said.

Boozman authored the “Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas SERVICE Act.” The legislation is named in honor of Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas, a Marine veteran and public health professional who was unaware of her increased risk for breast cancer as a result of her deployment to Iraq. During a routine medical exam in 2018 she was advised to undergo a mammogram and was then diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer at the age of 38.

“I could have used that information much earlier than I ac-

legislation.

Passage of these bipartisan bills continues Boozman’s commitment to improving VA care and services for women. Last Congress, the senator led the successful passage of the “Deborah Sampson Act,” a bipartisan initiative to eliminate barriers to care and services many women face when accessing VA benefits.

The landmark bill was signed into law by President Trump in January 2021.

The “Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas SERVICE Act” and “MAMMO for Veterans Act” now move to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

12 News

March 30, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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Arkansas’ unemployment rate decreases to 3.1 percent in February

Submitted by Arkansas BLS

Arkansas Civilian Labor Force Summary: Labor force data, produced by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics and released today by the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services, show Arkansas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased one-tenth of a percentage point, from 3.2 percent in January to 3.1 percent in February. Arkansas’ civilian labor force rose 4,569, a result of 5,028 more employed and 459 fewer unemployed Arkansans. At 3.8 percent, the United States’ jobless rate declined two-tenths of a percentage point

between January and February.

BLS Program Operations Manager Susan Price said, “Arkansas’ unemployment rate declined to a record low of 3.1 percent in February, as employment rose 5,028 and the labor force participation rate increased. There are now 28,287 more employed Arkansans than in February 2021.”

Arkansas Nonfarm Payroll Job Summary: Arkansas’ nonfarm payroll jobs increased 7,700 in February to total 1,300,700. Gains were posted in eight major industry sectors.

Leisure and hospitality added 2,700 jobs, with hiring across all subsectors. Jobs in government

rose 1,900. All gains were in state government-educational services (+2,200), reflecting the re-opening of colleges and universities from winter break. Educational and health servicesincreased 1,800. Hiring occurred in both educational services (+1,000) and health care and social assistance (+800). Manufacturing added 1,000 jobs, mostly in nondurable goods manufacturing (+800).

Compared to February 2021, nonfarm payroll jobs in Arkansas are up 44,300. Nine major industry sectors reported growth, with foursectors adding 6,200 or more jobs each. Trade, transportation, and utilities posted the largest increase, up 15,300 jobs.

Hiring occurred in all subsectors, with transportation-warehousing-utilities adding 7,200 jobs. Employment in leisure and hospitality rose 10,900, mostly in food services (+7,200). Jobs in professional and business services increased 6,500. Most of the gains were in management of companies (+3,900) and professional-scientific technical services (+2,500). Manufacturing added 6,200 jobs, with expansions in both durable goods (+3,600) and nondurable goods (+2,600) manufacturing. Notable increases were also seen in government (+2,500) and construction (+1,600).

THE POLK COUNTY

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March 30, 2022 Celebrating Children's Development and Improving Early Identification

CDC's "Learn the Signs. Act Early." Program Milestones matter! CDC’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program encourages parents and providers to learn the signs of healthy development, monitor every child’s early development, and take action when there is a concern.

The program offers free checklists and other tools to make developmental monitoring practical and easy.

Identifying developmental delays and disabilities is important.

•

•

•

1 in 6 children aged 3–17 years have developmental disabilities— conditions that affect how children play, learn, speak, act, or move.

“Learn the Signs. Act Early.” improves early identification of children with developmental delays and disabilities by promoting parent-engaged developmental monitoring and facilitating early action on concerns.

It does this through the following: ❚

Many children with a developmental disability are not identified until after starting school.

Early intervention (before school age) can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills as well as reduce the need for costly interventions over time.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends both developmental monitoring (also called surveillance) and developmental screening for all children.

The tools provided by “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” encourage ongoing, parentengaged, developmental monitoring and they support developmental screening.

A health education campaign that promotes •

Awareness of developmental milestones;

•

The importance of tracking milestones and acting early on concerns; and The availability of free checklists, children's books, a mobile app, and other resources.

•

❚

❚

Act Early Ambassadors who collaborate with early childhood programs in their states or territories to advance developmental monitoring and support developmental screening Research and evaluation to • • •

Improve “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” materials; Develop strategies to implement materials in practice; and Increase understanding of factors that influence developmental monitoring and referral for intervention.

“Our practice uses the Learn the Signs. Act Early. milestone checklists and they have significantly improved our ability to conduct developmental surveillance with our patients.

Our parents and providers love these resources!”

—Pediatrician, FL

National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities Division of Congenital and Developmental Disorders

News 13

14 Obituaries Karen Diane Podgornik

Karen Diane (Cole) Podgornik, age 61, of Hackett, Arkansas, formerly of Mena, passed away Tuesday, March 22, 2022, in Rogers, Arkansas.

She was born November 16, 1960, in Mena, Arkansas to Glen Esten Cole and Wanda Leane (Staggs) Cole. She was united in marriage to Matthew Thomas Podgornik, Sr. Karen was a devoted Registered Nurse. She took pride in the professional path she had chosen. Karen genuinely loved and cared for each and every patient as if they were her own family. Aside from her work, she was an avid Razorback fan and enjoyed fishing as a favorite past time. Karen was a loving wife, mother, sister, niece and friend. She will be dearly missed.

She is preceded in death by her father, Glen Esten Cole and her grandparents.

Karen is survived by her husband, Tommy; sons, Matthew Podgornik, Jr. and wife Jessica, Kevin Podgornik and wife Kayleigh; mother, Wanda Leane Cole, brother, Michael Cole; aunts, Betty Wiles, JoAnn Wiles and husband Benny; nephew, Austin Cole and a host of cousins and friends.

Funeral service will be Saturday, March 26, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Don Bradford officiating. Interment

THE POLK COUNTY

March 30, 2022 will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday, March 25, 2022, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Pallbearers are Jacob Tolman, Evan McGinnis, James Grant, Phil Whiteaker, Donald Bohlman and Eddie Staggs, Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Jim Reid and Christopher Monroe.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

LaVere G. Hansel

LaVere .G. Hansel, age 80, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at the Green House Cottages of Homewood in Mena. He was born on Saturday, September 20, 1941, to George Garfield and Una Olive Hansel in Rexburg, Idaho.

LaVere was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was an incredibly hard worker, sometimes working two or three jobs to care for his family. LaVere worked for FMC Corp for over thirty years operating heavy equipment for sodash mining. He lived and loved all things to do with the Old West. LaVere was part of the Gunfighters association and participated in famous gunfight reenactments. He was a talented bowler and enjoyed scuba diving in the Bahamas.

LaVere was a diehard Denver Broncos fan and also loved to watch professional wrestling and old Westerns. He loved his country and was very proud of our veterans and service members. Dolly Parton always brought a smile to his face, and he really enjoyed John Wayne films. LaVere cherished all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much. His favorite answer to any question was, “If the good Lord’s willing and the creeks don’t rise.” LaVere was a

loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sarah Dorlee Higley Hansel; one son, Curt Hansel; and two brothers, Dee Sharp and Merrill Hansel.

LaVere is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Sarah and Monty Knutson of Orting, Washington, Kristin Corbett of Mena, Annetta and Eric Richards of Yukon, Oklahoma; one daughter-in-law, Karen Hansel of Mena; two brothers, Myron Sharp and Eddie Sharp; three sisters, Linda Sharp, Lois Hansel, and Colleen Sharp; eleven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Including special friends Jenny, Krystal and Thomas Kidwell and the ladies of Mena TOPS. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, March 27, 2022, at White Oak Cemetery in Mena, Arkansas at 2:00 PM with Brother Derreck Ledbetter officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022, at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Pallbearers are Tom Corbett Jr., RJ Hansel, Kyle Hansel, Awstin Richards, Nathan Corbett, and Johnny Corbett.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Vincent “Leroy” Sanders

Vincent “Leroy” Sanders of Hatton, Arkansas, returned home on March 23, 2022. He was born June 15, 1935, in Wickes, Arkansas, to Odis and Haddie Sanders.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Alice Sanders; two sons, Lee Sanders, and Greg Hanlon; grand-

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daughter Amiee Hanlon; and two brothers, Bert and Jerome Sanders. Leroy is survived by his son, Don Sanders of San Francisco, California; two daughters, Janice Rogers of Mena, Arkansas, and Debbie Barrett of Wickes, Arkansas; one sister Leola Rye of Hatton, Arkansas; 12 grandchildren, Chastidy, Alicea, Ronnie, Amanda, David, Karma, Stacy, Danielle, Joe, Jaci, Jozsa, and Abby; 12 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Leroy was a Navy veteran. He worked many years in construction as a drywaller. He spent his last work years enjoying sharing stories with customers at the Wickes Feed Store. He was known for his love of gardening and growing the best tomatoes and strawberries.

His family loved his cooking, especially homemade pizza at family gatherings.

He loved hunting and fishing, something he shared with his son Lee. He lived out his life in the best way that he could, he was loved by many and will be truly missed. A graveside memorial to celebrate Leroy’s life will be held at Witherspoon Cemetery, Vandervoort, Arkansas, on Sunday, April 10th at 2 p.m.

One’s life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, indignation and compassion.

~ Simone de Beauvoir

THE POLK COUNTY

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Obituaries 15

March 30, 2022

Ronnie Dewayne McMellon

Ronnie Dewayne McMellon has been called home with the Lord on March 23, 2022. He was born on December 16, 1957, in Amarillo, Texas, to Winton and Lessie McMellon, and raised in Mena, Arkansas. Ronnie was a well-known business owner in Cedar Park, Texas, where he resided until he retired to Malvern, AR, in August of 2021.

Preceded in death by his parents, siblings Joy and Orville McMellon, and son Bradley McMellon.

Ronnie will be a remembered as a very kind-hearted and generous man.

He lived life to the fullest with family and friends always nearby.

Ronnie is survived by his wife Deanna Marie McMellon, daughter Toni Shanks, daughter Katie and husband Alex Kelso, sons Joseph and wife Danielle Quiroz, son Jackson Quiroz.

Grandchildren Angela Shanks, Rylee and Natalee Kelso, Zealand and Indie Quiroz. Brother Winton McMellon Jr. of Van Buren, Arkansas; Sisters Linda Lambert of Sanford, Florida; Margie and Danny DePriest of Hot Springs, Arkansas; Janice and Bennie Wagner of Mena Arkansas; Barbara Williams of Mena; uncle, Jimmy McMellon and many nieces and nephews.

Ronnie was a great man and will be truly missed by all he knew. He has been sent for cremation and will have a celebration of life at a later date.

Rev. Carol Duanne Lichlyter

Rev. Carol Duanne Lichlyter, age 79, passed away We d n e s d a y, March 23, 2022, in Rogers, Arkansas.

She was born November 12, 1942, in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, to the late Quentin and Frances Spangler Fitz.

Rev. Lichlyter was a psychiatric nurse by profession and loved pursuing education. She had obtained her master’s degree in Neuropsychology and was known as a “professional student.” She was an ordained minister and a past associate pastor at the Wickes Nazarene Church, where she faithfully attended services. She loved her dogs, collecting things, reading and embroidery.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Quentin and Frances Fitz; her beloved husband, Richard Lichlyter; and by her sisters, Connie Fitz Brewer and Ann Fitz. She is survived by her son, Vince Lichlyter and wife Amber; stepdaughters, Sandy Harvey Lichlyter Kocher and Renee Lichlyter Gauthier; grandchildren, Jonah Lichlyter and Jadyn Lichlyter; step-grandchildren, Aubrey Willcutt and Ava Willcutt; and by her sister, Terrie Rhodes and husband Gary; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Services for Mrs. Lichlyter will be held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at the Wickes Nazarene Church in Wickes, Arkansas, Rev. Byron Sullivan and Rev. Billy Sullivan will officiate under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Grannis Cemetery in Grannis, Arkansas.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Community Development Block Grants Little Rock, Ark. (March 21, 2022) - The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) has awarded $4,753,478 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to 30 Arkansas cities and counties.

The grants were awarded under the General Assistance set-aside, part of Arkansas’ $18.86 million 2021 formula grant allocation, which is designed to provide communities the opportunity to apply for a variety of non-housing public facility and public infrastructure projects. These funds originate from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) State Program for Small Cities.

An additional $2,424,095 was awarded to nine cities and counties throughout the state from the CDBG-CV set-aside, a $26.4 million supplemental program to assist in local government-level recovery, prevention, and preparation efforts relating to the coronavirus. The CDBG-CV funding was allocated to the State by HUD as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. (Eds. A selection of the regional western locations in Arkansas to receive General Assistance projects include:) · Ashdown, Little River County, Ashdown Drainage Project, $299,530 · Booneville , Logan County, Booneville Sidewalk Project, $200,000 · Hackett, Sebastian County, Hackett Sidewalk Project, $125,600 · Hatfield, Polk County, Hatfield Street Project, $148,075 · Murfreesboro, Pike County, Murfreesboro Drainage Improvement Project, $300,000 · Norman, Montgomery County, Norman Wastewater Improvement Project, $299,921 · Tollette, Howard County, Tollette Wastewater Project, $299,996 · Waldron, Scott County, Waldron Sidewalk Project, $172,008 The nine CDBG-CV projects include: · Blytheville, Mississippi County, Blytheville Homeless Shelter Project, $275,000 · Camden, Ouachita County, Cam-

den Community Center Project, $299,057 · Crossett, Ashley County, Crossett Youth Center Project, $300,000 · Garland County, Mid America Museum HVAC Project, $281,700 · Jackson County, Jackson County Homeless Shelter Project, $156,825 · Paragould. Greene County, Paragould Homeless Shelter Project, $281,500 · Paris, Logan, Paris Food Pantry Project, $300,000 · Pope County, MARVA Workshop Project, $300,000 · Sebastian County, Sebastian County Senior Centers Project, $230,013 To be eligible for CDBG funds through both of these programs, communities must have a population of less than 50,000 and at least 51 percent of the persons benefiting from the project must be of low- to moderate-income, or the project must meet another CDBG national objective, prevention of slum or blight, or meet an urgent need. CDBG-CV projects must have a direct tie-back to COVID-19, and meet an unmet need toward the recovery, prevention, and preparation efforts relating to the coronavirus. All Arkansas cities and counties are eligible for the grant program with the exception of 13 entitlement cities that receive CDBG funds directly from HUD. For more information on the Arkansas Small Cities CDBG or CDBG-CV program, contact the Grants Management Division at (501) 682-7682 or visit https://www.arkansasedc.com/grants. The Grants Division encourages local governing officials that have ongoing or future unmet COVID-19 needs to contact them for funding opportunities through the CDBG-CV program.

Some read the word who never study the word.

We are not commanded to read; we are commanded to study: “Study (literal, be diligent) to present yourself approved unto God, unashamed workmen, cutting straight the word of the truth.” (I Timothy 2:15) PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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Registration open for 2022 Arkansas Rural Development Summit LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (March 28, 2022) – Registration is now open for the 2022 Arkansas Rural Development Summit, the state’s annual event for anyone interested in improving the quality of life in Arkansas’ rural communities. This year’s summit will be held May 12 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.

The Rural Development Summit is a partnership between the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Division of Rural Services and the Arkansas Rural Development Commission. Each year, the event draws hundreds of attendees including mayors, county judges, legislators, state and federal officials, and community leaders who wish to interact and learn about best practices for the state’s smallest communities.

“We are excited to host the Rural Development Summit this year,” said Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston. “This annual event is a great way for community lead-

ers and other interested citizens to come together to learn, network, and share best practices so that we can strengthen our communities, improve quality of life, and increase

economic opportunities throughout the state.”

During the summit, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the programs and services available through AEDC that assist rural communities and their

include attendees from the state’s Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Matchmaking event, which will be May 11.

“Our rural communities are the backbone of Arkansas, providing the economic engine that keeps the state running and creating a quality of life that makes each area unique,” said Rebecca Caldwell, director of AEDC’s Rural Services Division. “I encourage our state’s local leaders, as well as interested citizens, to attend this year’s event. It is a great way to network and learn how you can do your part to make your community the best it can be.”

Attendees who register before April 28th can take advantage of the early-bird rate of $75 per attendee.

For those who register after April 28th, summit fees are $100 per attendee. Exhibit space is $200 and provides two complimentary registrations (any additional person pays regular registration). Registration Governor’s Award Luncheon where fees cover all summit materials as grants will be awarded to commu- well as entertainment activities and nities throughout Arkansas. In ad- lunch. Cancellations will be subject dition, a joint reception will be held to a 50 percent charge.

For more information and to regthe evening before the summit at 5:30 p.m. at the Statehouse Conven- ister online, visit https://info.arkantion Center. The reception will also sasedc.com/2022ARDSummit. leaders with development, planning, and revitalization efforts.

Events will include two breakout sessions, a hosted legislative committee meeting, and the annual

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Remembering the Sacrifices of America’s Brave Submitted by Sen. John Boozman Honoring our veterans is an important part of reflecting on the service and the sacrifice of millions of brave men and women who have stood in defense of our nation. We demonstrate our appreciation for the courage and bravery of the Armed Forces with fitting tributes from the National Mall in the nation’s capital to communities throughout Arkansas.

As home to more than 200,000 veterans, The Natural State also benefits from the continued civic engagement of these former service members. Their efforts enrich our state, support our communities and improve the lives of veterans.

For more than two decades, the Veterans Council of Northwest Arkansas has been dedicated to honoring their fellow brothers and sisters in arms and remembering all who have served in uniform. Its members created the Veterans Memorial Park and the Wall of Honor in Bella Vista. In an exciting development, that tribute is growing.

I was honored to join the recent

groundbreaking to expand the memorial and am proud of the incredible support of the community to recognize these heroes and I applaud the efforts to commemorate their heroism and bravery in this manner.

As long as men and women wear our nation’s uniform in defense of our ideals and freedom, we have a responsibility to acknowledge their courage. That’s why I supported legislation signed into law last year to build a memorial on the National Mall honoring the veterans of the Global War on Terrorism. It will stand as a symbol of reverence to and respect for the veterans and their families, and help teach future generations about our nation’s longest war. It’s important we reflect on their noble service.

We dedicated the World War II Memorial in 2004, decades after the conflict in Europe had ended. This delay denied veterans, and civilians who contributed to the war effort on the home front, the opportunity to see the tribute that stands as a testament to them and what they did for

our country. It’s heartwarming to know veterans of the Global War on Terrorism won’t have to wait long for a national memorial.

These monuments are one way we can honor and remember our veterans who were called to serve in our nation’s uniform. We will always owe a debt to the brave men and women who have made profound sacrifices on behalf of our nation.

That’s why I led efforts to create a national Gulf War Memorial to honor service members who fought in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. I’m proud of the work my staff and I did to enact that law and designate a prominent location for the memorial.

We also continue to update the many tributes to our nation’s warriors along the revered ground of the National Mall. I was proud to play a leading role in authorizing a Wall of Remembrance for the Korean War Memorial. Now the names of 43,000 Americans and Koreans who, in service to the U.S., were killed in battle, wounded in action, missing in action, or prisoners of war during the Korean War are etched in stone.

These memorials and expansions allow our fallen service members’ families, their brothers and sisters in arms and all Americans to honor the selflessness, heroism and sacrifice of those who honorably defended our country. We should be proud of the efforts nationwide to recognize our Armed Forces so their service can always be remembered.

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By Richie Lawry The old woman sat quietly in her kitchen as she ate her breakfast. Thoughts and memories from 90 years of life pressed in on her as she looked around the room.

There were so many memories in this house. The pretty young French girl, who had seen firsthand the horrors of war, gave way to a strong resilient woman. But now her body was failing her, and she would no longer be able to stay alone in the house that she loved. How would she be able to let it go?

La tartine, a quarter baguette sliced horizontally and toasted, was on the small table in front of her. She spread butter on the tartine absent-mindedly and reached for the sour orange marmalade. She would spread marmalade on one piece of tartine, but she would save the other piece to “dunk” into her café au lait. This was her breakfast almost every morning.

As she sat there, deep in thought, her eyes rested on the miniature painting hanging above the hotplate in her kitchen.

For many years, she had looked at the tiny eight-by-ten painting depicting a scene from Christ’s passion and crucifixion every day as she prepared her meals. She thought it was an old knockoff of a medieval painting, but she liked it, and it gave her comfort. It reminded her of her faith and what Jesus had suffered for her.

Today, the appraiser from the auction house will be meeting with her. She knew that she would have to sell her house and many of her belongings, but tears welled up in her eyes as her emotions wrapped around her. The thought of leaving her home of so many years was devastating.

How could she leave so many memories?

Why did life have to be so complicated?

When the appraiser arrived, she walked through the house, making notes. When she saw the miniature painting hanging in the kitchen above the hotplate, she was intrigued. Art wasn’t her area of expertise, but she suggested bringing the painting to experts and performing a series of tests using infrared light to determine its age and worth. She told the old woman, “If it

March 30, 2022

An Arkie’s Faith Unknown treasure

is as old as final price I think, was over your paint$26.6 miling may lion dollars. be worth Dominique more than Le Coënt $100,000.” of Acteon SpecialAuction ists at the House, Tu r q u i n who sold gallery in the masParis initerpiece to tially exan anonyamined mous buythe painter (Oct. 27, ing and 2019), said c o n c l u d - Art expert Stephane Pinta points to a 13th-century painting by the sale ed it was representItalian master Cimabue in Paris, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2019. around 700 ed a “world (File Photo courtesy of Richie Lawry) record for years old.

Further a primitests indicated that the painting was by tive, or a pre-1500 work. It’s a painting that the famous pre-Renaissance Italian paint- was unique, splendid, and monumental. er Cimabue. The piece is part of a series Cimabue was the father of the Renaissance. of paintings created in 1280, depicting But this sale goes beyond all our dreams.”

Christ’s crucifixion. Cimabue is wideExperts were off the mark because it was ly considered the forefather of the Italian the first time a Cimabue had ever gone Renaissance. He broke from the Byzantine under the hammer. “There’s never been style popular in the Middle Ages and be- a Cimabue painting on sale, so there was gan to incorporate elements of movement no reference previously on how much it and perspective that came to characterize could make,” Le Coent explained. “When Western painting. a unique work of a painter as rare as The painting’s discovery sent ripples of Cimabue comes to market, you have to be excitement through the art world. Phi- ready for surprises.” lomène Wolf, the auctioneer who discovI’m sure that the morning the old womered the painting, recounted, “I had a week an reminisced as she ate her breakfast and to give an expert view on the house con- waited for the appraiser to arrive, she had tents and empty it. You rarely see some- no idea what was in store. She was comthing of such quality.” She continued, “I pletely unaware of the value of the simple immediately thought it was a work of Ital- painting hanging above her hotplate. For ian primitivism. But I didn’t imagine it was many years, millions of dollars were hanga Cimabue.” ing on her kitchen wall. I can’t imagine the The auction house estimated the sale emotions that ran through her when she price of the painting to be $4.4 million to discovered the value of the painting. $6.6 million dollars. But when the hammer In Psalms 119:162 (NCB), David wrote, came down and the painting was sold, the “I rejoice in your word like one who dis-

Joke of the Week:

I have a photographic memory but I have never developed it.

Faith 19 covers a great treasure.” Movies, books, and television programs about pirate treasure excite us. Pirates amassed fortunes of gold, silver, and jewels, and some of those riches still have not been found. My wife is intrigued by the mystery of Oak Island.

Treasure hunters have been digging on this small Canadian island for over 200 years, looking for pirate treasure. Many tantalizing clues have been found, but no actual treasure.

But there are far more valuable treasures than anything you can find in a buried treasure chest, sunken pirate ship, or unknowingly hanging on your wall. Those treasures are in the Bible. “Your teachings are worth more to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.” Psalms 119:72 (NCV) If you are like most English-speaking people, you probably already own at least one Bible. A 2015 survey commissioned by the American Bible Society found that 88% of Americans own at least one Bible, and 79% consider the Bible sacred or holy.

About 36% of those surveyed said they read the Bible at least once per week.

However, merely owning a Bible is not enough. Even though most Americans own one or more Bibles, their knowledge of Scripture is sadly lacking. A 2010 survey by the Pew Research Center demonstrated that only 45% of Americans knew the names of the four Gospels.

Gentle Reader, you have a priceless work of art in your home. It is the Bible, and what it contains is very literally the difference between eternal life and eternal death.

Don’t fail to recognize the value of that one ordinary book. It’s the most valuable thing you own. “My goal is that your hearts may be encouraged and strengthened. I want you to be joined together in love. Then your understanding will be rich and complete. You know the mystery of God. That mystery is Christ. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in him.”

Colossians 2:2,3 (NIRV) paraphrased.

You have a treasure in the Bible “worth more than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.” Psalms 119:72 (NCV) Don’t let it remain an unknown treasure.

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22 Humor

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March 30, 2022

Author Talk with Brooks Blevins

Submitted by UARM

If you’re wondering “How to Speak Hillbilly in Seven Simple Steps,” there will be a comedic and yet historical lecture from Brooks Blevins on April 12 in the Ouachita Center.

Brooks Blevins is the Noel Boyd Professor of Ozarks Studies at Missouri State University. A native of north central Arkansas and graduate of Lyon College, Blevins is the author or editor of eleven books, including “Arkansas/ Arkansaw: How Bear Hunters, Hillbillies, and Good Ol’ Boys Defined a State” and the “A History of the Ozarks” trilogy.

Blevins’ presentation will be considered comedic by many but does offer an interesting historical perspective into many of the peculiarities of the

dialect of the Ouachitas and Ozarks.

The event is free and open to the community. It begins at 1:30 p.m. It is made possible by a grant through the American Library Association’s Rescue Plan: Humanities Grants for Libraries, an emergency relief program to assist libraries that have been adversely affected by the pandemic. The competitive $10,000 grant is assisting Johnson Learning Commons at UARM in delivering programs and services related to culture, history, literature, and other humanities subjects.

Two other events are planned later this year through this grant. Ben Shreve, formerly of Mena, will hold a musical performance at 7 p.m., also in the Ouachita Center. Details on the third event are still being finalized but is expected to be held in June and will feature a textile artist from New York.

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Hogspore News:

Raccoons attend beauty pageant

Me and Punkin took in the beauty pageant at the high school Saturday night. We got there early; it always gets full up quick.

We didn’t know any of the contestants, so we didn’t have a dog in the fight. I don’t mean the girls ain’t pretty. It’s just something I heard before, like not my circus, not my monkey. Course, I don’t think the contestants are monkeys. It’s just something I heard before.

One girl had a birth certificate from a foreign country, but it was okay ‘cause she weren’t running for president.

The raccoons that wanted to attend brought their proper Rabies vaccination papers. Not one of them was named Ricky or Rocky.

The varmints mingled in the back near the high school baking club sale tables. The raccoons were well-behaved and didn’t occasion any trouble, thanks to Principal Barkley Spellbetter, who gave the critters a separate area with little dog bowls of water for dipping.

April Fool’s Day is this Friday.

Every year, Evangeline, my grand-

daughter, tricks me by taping up the end of my kitchen sink hose sprayer with clear tape. If she visits me on April Fool’s Day, I’m gonna get soaked. The problem is that it never fools me, cause it’s the same as hiding a hamburger from a Basset Hound. I still play along, but I thought about turning it around by yelling, “I got water in my eye after I saw the doctor yesterday for an eye infection.” I even had a follow-up joke on my doctor putting pressure on me to get a Glaucoma check.

Then, I reckoned if I did that, then the next time she would do something else to get me.

So, I’m gonna get wet and pretend I was tricked. Sometimes, it takes a long time to become smart enough to think an idea all the way through, specially if you’re a man.

Mumford Pickens says, “Using a calendar on a computer is not the same as reading a calendar taped to your computer.”

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

So many religious institutions have adopted the music of the world around it, the standards of the world, the methods of the world, and have done so without even questioning it. And many “Believers” do not even know the difference between the way of the world and the way of God. PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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March 30, 2022 News 23 Pulse State and local law enforcement plan stepped-up enforcement of distracted driving laws THE POLK COUNTY

Distracted driving continues to be one of the leading causes of motor vehicle crashes along nationwide roadways. The Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office is working with state and local law enforcement agencies to encourage drivers to put down their phones while driving.

Stepped-up enforcement of the state’s distracted driving laws is being planned for April 4 – 11 that will involve Arkansas State Troopers, local sheriff ’s departments and local police officers. The operation will target drivers who are texting and driving as well as violating other distracted driving laws.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA], between 2012 and 2019, more than 26,000 people died in crashes involving a distracted driver.

While fatalities from motor vehicle crashes decreased slightly from 2018 to 2019, distraction-related fatalities increased by 10%.

The statistical analysis from NHTSA also reported that the number of deaths linked to driver distraction was 3,142 nationwide, or almost 9% of all fatalities during 2019, a 10% increase over the previous year 2018, or 284 more fatalities. The distraction figure was the largest increase in causes of traffic deaths reported for 2019.

Millennials and Generation Z are the most distracted drivers, often using their cell phones to talk, text, and scroll through social media while behind the wheel of a moving vehicle.

According to NHTSA research from 2017, young drivers, 16 to 24 years of age, have been observed using handheld electronic devices while driving at higher rates than older

drivers since 2007. During 2019, 9% while nearly 96% of drivers believed of people killed in crashes involving it was very or extremely dangerous teenagers (15 to 19 years of age) died to read a text or email while driving, when the teen drivers were distract- 4 out of 10 drivers admitted to doing ed at the so within time of the prethe crash. vious 30 “Disdays. tracted “ These driving d r i v has beers give come one themof the selves a leading personal causes of exempvehicle tion to igcrashes nore the on Ar- In a survey, 4 out of 10 drivers (40%)admitted to driving law while k a n s a s while reading a text or email, while 96% of drivers beunfairly r o a d - lieved it was extremely dangerous. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse) putting w a y s ,” others at said Colonel Bill Bryant, Director risk,” Colonel Bryant commented. of the Arkansas State Police and the “Beginning April 4th state troopers Governor’s Highway Safety Repre- won’t be issuing warnings, they’ll be sentative. “Drivers know it’s against writing violator citations as part of the law, yet the distractions are sig- the U Text and Drive, You Pay ennificantly attributed to texting while forcement operation.” driving.”

The Arkansas Highway Safety OfMany drivers are guilty of a “double fice and NHTSA urge drivers to put standard” when it comes to distract- their phones away when behind the ed driving. In its 2018 Traffic Safety wheel. If you need to text, pull over Culture Index, the American Auto- to a safe location. Drivers are enmobile Association reported that couraged to follow these suggestions

to ensure a safe driving experience: • If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location.

Only after you are off the roadway and stopped is it safe to text.

• Ask your passenger to be a “designated texter.” Allow the passenger access to your phone for responding to calls or messages.

• Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.

• Cell phone use while driving can easily become a habit. Consider activating your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature while driving, or put the phone in the trunk, glove compartment, or back seat of the vehicle until arriving at your destination.

Texting while driving is dangerous and illegal. Help break the dangerous habit of distracted driving. Remember: U Drive. U Text. U Pay. For more information, visit https:// www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 6188136.

Also learn more about Arkansas’ ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities, visit www.TZDArkansas. org/.

The church of Jesus Christ is to be an expression of the values, priorities, principles of Jesus Christ, and never those of the world around it. The true church of Jesus Christ will express kingdom values in all of its ways, and not the values and methods of the world around it.

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The Kingdom of Autism: Interaction and expectations

Submitted by Russell Threet, Autism Parent

April is recognized as Autism Awareness month. Every time I hear that said it makes me think about my wife’s coffee cup. Some years ago, we were in a Bed, Bath, and Beyond store and saw a large Tervis tumbler that was on sale.

It had a multi-colored puzzle piece and read, “Autism Aware” instead of what it was probably supposed to say, which we believe was “Autism Awareness”. We laugh whenever she uses it and find ourselves saying “Boy, are we aware of autism”. We, like many families in our community, have a child that has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These families are much like your own, but are tasked with living in the Kingdom of Autism along with the everyday world that everyone else lives in.

Let me tell you a few things during

this Aut i s m Aw a r e n e s s Month about the Kingdom of Autism. It is simultaneously one of the most amazing and magical places you can imag ine w h i l e also occasionally being a place of great hardship. There are things that happen in this kingdom that boggle the mind, bringing tears of joy, but there are days of extreme sadness as well. In this article I want to give you some guidelines to help you if you find yourself wandering into this kingdom. Consider this your travel guide. It will help you enjoy your visit and not bring any undue problems to the citizens of this noble land. Autism is extremely different for different individuals and families, so bear in mind that these are guidelines that are general and somewhat anecdotal. They may help you, but the best way to understand the citizens of this great kingdom is to interact with them in a caring way and find out how they and their families do things.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected For some this may mean that there could be a very loud noise that escapes their lips suddenly. For others (such as my family), there may be some brutal honesty that seems harsh but is not meant to injure or insult. Many autistic individuals have trouble with impulse

c ont rol, sensor y issues, and with understanding social norms and cues.

This can lead to some interesting situations. Be prepared to roll with the punches, and probably have a good laugh with the family about it at some point in the future.

Laughing at individuals dealing with autism is obviously cruel but laughing with them and their families is usually good medicine.

Be Persistent Have you recently made friends in church or at work with a family that lives with ASD? If you are going to be a real friend to this family you are going to have to be persistent. They need good friends, but they have also had many people come and go in their lives because of the ups and downs of ASD. This is because, as a family, they may not be able to participate in certain things. They may have to come late, leave early, and bring special food just to be part of an event for a short period of time. It may make more sense for gatherings to be at their house because the opportunity for meltdowns is less. These types of things and so much more can put a strain on friendships over time. However, I know if you persevere these families will be a blessing in your life in a way you probably can-

not imagine. If you become a preferred visitor in their piece of the Kingdom of Autism you will get a front row seat to much more of the magic than the casual tourist.

Let Kindness and Dignity Be Your Guides If you have read this far, I am assuming you know, love, or want to know better an individual or family living with ASD. This last guideline is the grease that will make the gears turn more smoothly as you journey into the Kingdom of Autism.

Always be kind and keep dignity in the forefront of your mind. People with ASD are all different in their cognitive and physical levels. Some have extreme struggles, while others are extremely gifted. Usually, it is some interesting combination of both. Do your best to treat individuals with ASD in age-appropriate ways. This includes the tone and content of your speech, as well as things like autonomy. For example, ask the 15-year-old what they want to eat instead of their parent. I promise you if they ask for something that they cannot or should not have their parent will make it clear. Treat them as you would other friends and acquaintances, and not as some strange creatures to be deciphered.

Autism is a hard thing, but it is also a beautiful thing. It is my hope and prayer that this travel guide for the Kingdom of Autism has been a help and has piqued your curiosity enough that you might visit and explore the beauty of the unique landscape.

Remember, these are general tips and helps. They are not an attempt to speak for every individual or family dealing with ASD. Dive into relationships with these families and become a real friend and support. Your love, perseverance, and sincerity could make an unimaginable difference in their life, but also in yours.

THE POLK COUNTY

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March 30, 2022

More Drivers are Opting for Electric Vehicles, Here’s Why

(StatePoint) If you think you’re seeing more electric vehicles (EVs) on the road, you’re not imagining it. From 2020 to 2021 alone, there was a 70% increase in registered EVs within the United States.

Auto giants such as Ford and Chevrolet are quickly expanding their fleets of EVs, and with Congress passing historic EV legislation last fall, experts agree that this trend is only set to intensify.

With all the buzz surrounding the EV industry right now, one issue has surprisingly managed to persist: the problem of charging compatibility.

“The U.S. EV industry has been held back in the past due to limited charging options and a fragmented EV infrastructure,” says Christopher Maiwald, founder and CEO of Lectron, a leading manufacturer of EV charging solutions. “Recent moves by the federal government are aimed primarily at increasing charging availability.”

Indeed, the recent legislation is geared towards promoting EVs as a sustainable alternative to gas-powered cars. The massive $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill signed last November contains $7.5 billion earmarked to be spent on building out the nation’s EV charging network.

While the government hopes that greater charging availability will lessen range anxiety and boost driver confidence, it stops short of quelling compatibility concerns.

American AC charging infrastructure is currently divided between two types of charging standards: Tesla and J1772 (all other EVs), while the country’s DC charging infrastructure is divided even further: Tesla, CSS, and CHAdeMO. “The legislation is a step in the right direction, but it does little to address the issue of charger compatibility,” continues Maiwald.

Companies like Lectron are quickly

coming up with ways of solving this problem. For example, in an effort to help Tesla drivers access J1772 chargers, Lectron offers the J1772 to Tesla Adapter, which provides four to six times more charging options, and may prove vital to Tesla drivers in accessing the nation’s expanding J1772 charging network.

Likewise, since Tesla has already built over 15,000 publicly accessible charging stations nationwide, Lectron offers J1772 drivers the 48 Amp Tesla to J1772 Adapter, which is the only adapter on the market that supports 48 amps of maximum current and 250V of maximum voltage — meaning wider charging access and faster charging times.

Another way the industry is handling the growing compatibility problem is through the wider use of portable chargers. Lectron’s 40 Amp Level 2 Charger, for example, provides fast Level 2 charging for EV drivers. So, no matter where they are, they always have a quick charging option available to them.

The final hurdle toward greater EV acceptance may not be related to public charging stations at all. Maiwald explains, “While ensuring public charging access is important, having a powerful home charging option is what will truly lead to widespread acceptance and make EVs the transportation of the future.”

The company is currently rolling out its most powerful in-home charging station yet — the Lectron V-BOX. It has a maximum of 48 amps of power and comes in three different versions: standard, smart, and bi-directional, with all three options slated for release later this year.

More information about the latest EV chargers and charging accessories can be found by visiting ev-lectron.com.

Thanks to expanded infrastructure and improved technology, EVs are becoming a more convenient and viable option for a growing number of drivers.

News 25

Nearby Hochatown moves forward on incorporation effort

By Patrick Massey

HOCHATOWN, Okla.

- Efforts are moving forward to incorporate one of the area’s most popular and fastest-growing tourist destinations and finally make it the full-fledged town many have long sought.

On March 24, volunteers behind the effort submitted a Notice of Intent to Incorporate Hochatown to the Board of McCurtain County Commissioners. The documents include a petition signed

by Hochatown’s registered voters, maps regarding the proposed territory to be incorporated and other legal documents.

A 30-day review process wrapped up this month, during which Hochatown residents and the general public could ac-

cess and review the notice. Community petition signing events were held and quickly gathered more than the one-third required number of registered voters within the proposed territory to be incorporated.

County Commissioners have thirty days to approve the petition. The goal, upon approval by commissioners, is to have the incorporation set for a vote of the people at the next eligible election, which is slated to be June of this year. Organizers say their hope is that the historic community can begin a process following a six-year delay to implement municipal services and improve infrastructure. This, they add, will ultimately benefit the entire county as Hochatown continues to rapidly grow.

26 News

Pulse

March 30, 2022

OLT Announces Matilda Cast

Jessica Kropp, director of Ouachita Little Theatre’s spring production, announces the cast of Matilda the Musical. The play will be performed over two weekends, May 13-15 and 20-22. The Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 PM and the Sunday matinees are at 2:30 PM. The cast is as follows: Anna Burt will play Matilda, and Brandy Benner is Miss Trunchbull. Alexyss Hilderbrand is playing Miss Honey, and Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood are portrayed by Tommy Myers and Gini Burt. Their son Michael is played by Eric Decker; Jeanie Bunyard plays Mrs. Phelps and Tiffiny Cavelli portrays Bruce. Skylar Bahr performs the role of Lavender.

Other characters including children’s roles, henchmen, circus performers, and other colorful characters are Joey Decker, Stacey Musgrave, Scotty Jenkins, Anthony Neumann, Tyler Shook, Kristie Kenyon-Ortiz, Sierra Dickerson, Lamar Austin, Zeke McPher-

THE POLK COUNTY

son, Macy Herod, Robby Burt, Katie Norris, Jenna Williams, Evie Norris, Aaron Burt, Bailey Benner, Miranda Burt, Ari Davison, Eric Decker, Joey Decker, Richard Gilbert, Jacob Kenyon-Ortiz, Hannah Thacker, Lexi Williams, and Sierra Dickerson.

Matilda the Musical is the multi-award-winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl.

With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda the Musical is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Reserved tickets may be purchased online at ouachitalittletheatre.org or in person at the OLT office, 610 Mena Street, during office hours. Consider getting a season ticket for best value. There are good shows all season long! Now our season ticket holders

Combating high gas prices

By Patrick Massey With gas prices hitting new all-time highs in March, Arkansans are feeling the pinch at the pumps.

The average cost of a gallon of regular gas nationally was $4.27 on March 18, up from $2.88 a year prior, according to the American Automobile Association. In Polk County gasoline prices are currently averaging around $3.99 a gallon.

That’s higher than the statewide average of $3.84 but below nearby counties including Sevier, Howard, Miller, Montgomery and Nevada, where prices are averaging right at or above $4 a gallon.

Geopolitical tensions and supply and demand are among the factors affecting the spike in gas prices nationwide, which are the highest they’ve been since 2008, according to AAA. Paying more at the pump can have a big impact on a household budget.

Hopefully, gas prices will return to normal, but until they do, there are several ways people can curb costs.

aggressively. Steady driving uses less fuel, so use cruise control when appropriate.

Maintain your car To get the best mileage, stick to a maintenance schedule. Check and replace air filters regularly. Get regular oil changes. Use the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil, and keep tires properly inflated and aligned.

Lighten up Remove excess weight in your vehicle to improve fuel efficiency. An extra 100 pounds in the trunk can reduce fuel economy by as much as 2 percent. Excess weight in the luggage rack on top creates wind resistance and lessens fuel efficiency.

Drive less One of the simplest tactics is just to drive less. Carpool. Walk or ride a bike. Work remotely from home if possible. Plan your trips and reduce miles by combining errands so that you make stops along a planned route.

Shop around Compare gas prices at stations near your home and work. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended octane level of gasoline for your car.

Don’t pay more for the expensive, high-octane gas if your car doesn’t need it.

Choose an efficient vehicle If you own more than one vehicle, drive the one that gets the best gas mileage. If you are looking to purchase a new vehicle, consider energy efficient options like electric or hybrid.

Slow down Another tactic is to slow down.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, slow and steady wins the race. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph improves gas mileage by as much as 15 percent. Drivers can also improve gas mileage by not driving

Reduce other expenses Look for other expenses in your budget that you can cut or scale back to have extra money for gas. Sometimes it is necessary to adjust a spending plan to allow for uncontrollable changes in expenses. When gas prices return to normal, you can resume your regular spending habits.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

Arkansas invasive aquatic species Submitted by AGFC Giant threats to Arkansas’s fish and water are lurking under the surface somewhere right now. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission needs boaters’ help in stopping these terrors before they spread any further.

Non-native invasive plants, animals and other creatures may seem like small problems at first, but together, they account for more than $120 billion in damage to the U.S. annually.

Matt Horton, the AGFC’s Aquatic Nuisance Species program coordinator, says 36 aquatic nuisance species have been documented in Arkansas, including plants, fish, mussels and other types of organisms. Some of the more well known species include giant salvinia, silver carp, northern snakeheads and zebra mussels, but these are just a few of the species that can pose significant ecological and economic harm, as well as a risk to human health.

Just like when fighting a virus, Horton says the best plan of attack is to prevent it from spreading to new areas. Here are some ways everyone can fight aquatic nuisance species in Arkansas to keep our waters healthy and accessible for angling and boating enjoyment.

Clean, Drain and Dry Invasive species are commonly spread through unintentional introductions when they hitch a ride on a boat, motor, trailer or fishing and hunting equipment.

Taking a minute to wash off debris, remove vegetation and allow your boat and equipment to thoroughly dry can kill off those hitchikers before they reach a new destination.

If you can’t wash the boat between each trip to a new destination, allow it to drain completely and dry out, which will help kill some of the culprits.

Pull the Plug An extension of the “Drain” in the Clean, Drain and Dry motto is to pull the

plug from your boat to ensure all water has drained. According to Arkansas law, all drain plugs must be removed from your boat at the boat ramp upon the conclusion of your outing. This includes bilge drains, cooler compartments, baitwells and livewells. Pathogens, such as viruses, as well as small bits of vegetation and invasive mussel larvae can hide in the plumbing of your rig and keep the cycle going.

Leave the Bait Behind Live bait is the best way to ensure a bite when you take a fishing trip, but those minnows you’re using may not be minnows after all. The water they are in also could harbor pathogens or bits of harmful aquatic plants that aren’t native to the lake or stream where you are fishing. Because of this, AGFC prohibits movement of live-caught bait, including crayfish, between bodies of water. Any live bait used must either be purchased from a certified bait provider or come from the body of water where you are fishing.

Observe and Report Anglers and other boaters can help Horton fight aquatic nuisance species by knowing what to look for and letting the AGFC know as soon as they spot a possible infestation.

The AGFC is developing an online dashboard to help show people where nuisance species have been documented.

A smartphone app also will be developed to make it easier for anyone to report aquatic nuisance species. People can log in to www.agfc.com/invasivespecies to take a look at what aquatic nuisance species have been reported in Arkansas and report any sightings.

The public can also call (501-747-9012) or email reportANS@agfc.com, or use the online reporting tool on the webpage.

Information needed for a report include a picture or pictures of the organism, GPS coordinates if possible, name of the waterbody, and contact information of the person filing the report.

News 27

AGFC seeks longer bear season for Polk, other Zone 2 counties P o l k County could see a longer bear archery season following a recent proposal from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Earlier this month the commission met to discuss a number of proposed regulation changes. Those proposals include lengthening the bear archery season in Zones 1 and 2 by 10 days. Zones 2encompasses all of Polk County as well as northern Sevier and Howard.

Another proposed regulation change seeks to establish a bear hunting season in Zones 3 and 4. Zone 3 includes southern Sevier County in addition to others in Southwest Arkansas.

A number of other notable hunting and fishing regulation changes were suggested during the AGFC’s commissioners meeting earlier this month.

Those include reducing the statewide bag limit on turkey to one bird beginning in 2023; opening regular duck season the weekend after Thanksgiving instead of the weekend before; allowing the use of repeating crossbows only during Arkansas’ firearms season; and prohibiting guides from providing services while under the influence or intoxicated.

A number of other regulations have been proposed,

mostly affecting individual waterways and wildlife management areas. One broad change would establish a $5 annual camping permit in order to camp on any commission-owned WMA. The AGFC is seeking public comment on these and other proposed changes through a survey available on its website, agfc.com. The survey will run through April 17 and all comments will be compiled for review. The commission is expected to vote on the proposals in May.

28 Sports

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

Acorn Tigers Class A-AA Indoor State Track Champions Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Soccer April 1 - Mena @ Morrilton Baseball March 31 - Mena @ Dierks April 1 - Mena @ Nashville April 5 - Mena @ Arkadelphia Softball April 1-2 - Mena @ Van Buren River City Rumble April 5 - Mena @ Arkadelphia

Track March 31 - Acorn @ Mansfield April 5 - Acorn @ Waldron Baseball March 31 - Acorn @ Westside Johnson April 4 - Mountainburg @ Acorn April 5 - Acorn @ Foreman Softball March 31.- Acorn @ Westside Johnson April 4 - Murfreesboro @ Acorn April 5 - Acorn @ Dierks

Baseball/Softball April 1 - Danville @ Cossatot River April 5 - Booneville @ Cossatot River Soccer March 31 - Cossatot @ Danville April 5 - Cossatot @ Centerpoint

Baseball March 31 - Eastern Oklahoma State College @ UARM April 2 - UARM @ Eastern Oklahoma State College April 4 - Henderson State Developmental Team @ UARM Softball March 31 - Northern Oklahoma College @ UARM April 2 - UARM @ Northeastern Oklahoma AM College April 5 - UARM @ Southern Arkansas University Tech

The Acorn Tigers traveled to Fayetteville on Feb. 26, to compete in their first indoor state track meet at the University of Arkansas Randal Tyson Track Center. The Acorn Tigers, coached by Coach Keith Willsey, not only competed, but were named Class A-AA Champions.

This win came with challenges and obstacles, including some athletes unable to compete due to conflicting changes in the 2-A Regional Basketball playoff schedule.

The Tigers were able to move up two freshmen, which allowed a solid team to be assembled for all events.

The team was led by AHS senior Justice Neufeld who won the 800, 1,600 and 3,200-meter runs, and placed third in the 400-meter run.

(l to r, back row): Caden Tarkinton, Reed McGee, Jonah Rogan. (l-r, front row): Bella Tedder, Frederick Metcalf, Riley Weddle, Justice Neufeld, Zachary Cline, Isaac Tedder.

(Submitted photo)

For the Tigers to win the championship title, they excelled and gained additional points in field events. Jonah Rogan and Zachary Cline placed fourth and sixth in the shot put event.

R e e d M c G e e hit a big mark in the triple jump event for third place and Caden Ta r k i n t o n p l a c e d fourth.

For the long jump event, McGee placed sixth and Isaac

Tedder placed eighth.

In the track events, the Tigers set the tone of the meet by winning the 4x800 with Frederick Metcalf, McGee, Tedder and Tarkinton.

Tarkinton, a freshman, also placed third in the 800-meter and fourth in the 1,600-meter.

Tedder placed third in the 3,200-meter.

Riley Weddle placed fourth in the 60-meter and in the 200-meter, with Metcalfe placing sixth.

McGee placed fifth in the 400-meter.

Rogan placed fifth in the 60-meter run and third in the 60-meter hurdles, in which Tedder placed fifth.

The AHS Tigers’ 4x400 relay team of McGee, Rogan, Weddle and Tarkinton finished the meet with a victory.

AHS Lady Tiger Bella Tedder placed sixth in the 1,600-meter and third place in the 3,200-meter.

This event makes Acorn High School’s 16th Track and Field/Cross Country Championship in the history of AHS Track & Field for boys and girls. The Tigers will start the outdoor season looking to defend their 2021 Class AA State Track Championships.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

Bearcat football conference shake up Submitted by Coach Craig Bentley years ago and it makes it very difficult to schedule and replace when For the second cycle in a row, the that decision is made so late in the Mena Bearcats will be having to year. We are very fortunate to be replace a team on their conference able to add Lafayette County to our schedule. Genoa Central recently schedule. voted to declare for 8-man football, “We will play them the same week which takes them out of their cur- we were scheduled to play Genoa rent conference (7-4A) and leaves (Week 8). Being able to fill this date the other teams scrambling to re- allows us to keep our original bye place them on their schedule. week (Week 3) and continue playThe Bearcats acted fast and will ing later in the season without havnow play Lafayette County the next ing to miss a game or have a bye two seasons in a non-conference week later in the season...which is matchup. Mena will travel to Lafay- something we were not able to avoid ette County this upcoming season, the last time this happened. We will with the Cougars coming to Polk be a young team and we need all County in 2023. the game reps we can get. Lafayette Coach Bentley stated “Unfortu- County has an upcoming program nately, this is something we are used with a class coaching staff. It will be to. Subiaco did the same thing a few a good series for us.”

Basscats take first in competition

Mena Basscats Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger competed at another competition, and took home awards.

The pair competed in the Arkansas Young Guns High School Tournament on Lake Ouachita on Saturday, March 26. At this tournament, the team took first place and won the Big Bass award for Arkansas High School Bass Fishing.

The Basscats will be back in action next weekend on Saturday and Sunday. They will be competing in the Gregg Orr Marine High School Tournament on Lake Ouachita on Saturday and will be competing in the Trader Bills High School tournament on Lake Hamilton on Sunday

Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger show off their winning catch at the Arkansas Young Guns High School Tournament.

(Submitted photo)

Sports 29

30 News

By Trey Youngdahl The Greenhouse Cottages of Homewood (GHC) have an incredible staff that has strived for excellent patient care.

GHC is a rehabilitation and senior care facility that offers a new approach to patient care. Instead of the hospital-esque feeling of other senior care centers, Green House is centered around a more compassionate, community attitude towards their residents.

This is done by building a community of residency housing, instead of one standalone building- like a neighborhood. The cottages have no medical signposts, alarms, buzzers, med carts, loudspeakers, or restraints in patients’ rooms to offer a more “home-like” feeling. The GHC website reports that residents in this type of environment experience lower depression rates, as well as lower levels of helplessness versus traditional homes.

At GHC, the staff puts a focus on the patient’s quality of life coming first, in-

March 30, 2022

The Greenhouse Cottages of Homewood: Ashley Miles LPN cluding the (CNA) in right to pri2014, workvacy, diging locally nity, autonat another omy, and senior care emot iona l facility. In well-being.

2017, she Among the continued staff memher educabers is Ashtion at the ley Miles, University Licensed of ArkanPractisas Rich cal Nurse Mountain (l-r) Ashley Miles LPN, with her team of CNAs: Tammy (LPN). ( UA R M ) Sockey, Angel Daniels and Heather Watson.

“We’re in (Trey Youngdahl/Pulse) to become the backa LPN. ground Shortly afand they come first,” Miles said. “We ter, she joined the team at GHC. want them to feel like they’re in their Her nursing journey started when own home. They have choices.” she took care of her grandmother, who Miles, a Wickes native, started her was feeling the effects of old age. career as a Certified Nursing Assistant “I took care of her for ten years before

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse they had to put her in a nursing home,” Miles said. “I wanted to be around her, so I took the CNA class at UARM.” Right now, America is facing what is being called ‘The American Nursing Shortage’, that title being coined after the severe drop of people in the nursing field since 2020. In Feb. 2021, LinkedIn reported that nursing is the fifth most in-demand profession in the American workforce. Right now, nurses all across the country are dealing with the challenges of the job.

“The biggest challenge for me is making sure that (the residents) are wanted and loved,” Miles said. “With people not able to come and visit, I want all of my residents to know that I love them.”

Currently, GHC is hiring CNAs at $14.40 an hour. Additionally, they are offering free classes for aspiring healthcare workers to earn their certification and launch their career. Call (479) 3943511 or visit homewoodghc.com.

“It’s a really nice place to be. It’s homey, and everybody there makes you feel welcome.”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

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

T003/30 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.

T0406 Land Management, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

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

T0427 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0330

- CROWD FUNDING -

Benefit account set up for Bill Frank, who had a wreck on Hwy. 71N. He has over $10,000 in medical bills, with more to come, and is unemployed until doctor’s release. For more information, contact Union Bank or Frank Bill at 870828-4150 T0406

- EMPLOYMENT Preacher Wanted Christ’s Church Cove wants a preacher to fill in twice per month.

For information, call Larry at (405) 406-4727 T0330

Classifieds 31

Avian Influenza Emergency Rule in effect LITTLE ROCK – As further mitigation against confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in surrounding states, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Livestock & Poultry Commission promulgated the Arkansas Avian Influenza Emergency Rule (Emergency Rule) on March 15, 2022. The new Emergency Rule will be in effect from March 23 to July 20, 2022.

Under the Emergency Rule, it is prohibited to: A. Exhibit poultry and domestic waterfowl; B. Move poultry or domestic waterfowl from or within an affected area; · Poultry with commuter agreements or premovement avian influenza testing by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or antigen capture are exempt from paragraph B. C. Sell, barter, trade, auction, or give away, poultry or domestic waterfowl at fairs, swap meets, auctions, flea markets, and similar events and locations within an

- INSERTER JOB OPPORTUNITY

at The Polk County Pulse Are you trustworthy and punctual?

This is a team-based, physically demanding position in a fast paced environment.

Part time - 2 Tuesday Nights per Month apply at The Pulse/KENA office: 1168 Hwy. 71 S - Mena no calls please Ouachita Broadcasting is an Equal Opportunity Employer; women and minorities invited to apply.

affected area. · Chicks and ducklings three weeks of age or less originating from a NPIP certified flock are exempt from paragraph C. An affected area is defined by the rule as a radius of 25 miles surrounding a flock with a confirmed case of HPAI. Additionally, the Emergency Rule requires all free range and backyard poultry to be confined under a roof or inside a structure to prevent contamination from infected migratory birds flying overhead or by direct exposure to wild birds.

Find the full Avian Influenza Emergency Rule at https://bit.ly/ AIrule.

HPAI is caused by an influenza type A virus which can infect poultry and wild birds. HPAI virus strains are extremely infections, often fatal to chickens, and can spread rapidly from flock to flock. Symptoms can include sudden increase in bird deaths with no clinical signs, lack of energy and appetite, decrease in egg

production, soft- or thin-shelled or misshapen eggs, and others. More information on HPAI can be found at https://bit.ly/AvianHealth.

Poultry owners should continue to closely monitor their flocks and report any possible symptoms to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture at 501-8231746. More information on HPAI symptoms can be found at https:// bit.ly/367voIB. Although there have been no reports of HPAI in Arkansas this year, there have been multiple reported cases in commercial turkey flocks, commercial broiler chicken flocks, and a backyard flocks of mixed species birds is the Mississippi Flyway and the Atlantic Flyway. Information regarding confirmed HPAI cases in the U.S. for 2022 can be found at https://bit.ly/HPAI2022.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides resources on biosecurity for poultry operations through their Defend the Flock campaign, which can be found at https://bit.ly/USDA-DTF. The church of Jesus Christ is an outpost in enemy territory. Christians don’t see it and the preachers don’t talk much about it, but the word of God is clear: We can love God or we can love the world, but we cannot love both (I John 2:15) for the :”Whole world lies in the evil one.” (I John 5:19) PAID ADVERTISEMENT

32 Puzzles

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

03.30.22

03.30.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 03.23.22

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hello , I am Tyrone. I am 4 years old. I love to cuddle and be with my people. I am so playful and love adventure. Toys don’t stand a chance with me. I love to play and run. I like to be with other cats. I have not been tested with kids or dogs. I am litter boxed trained, and must be an indoor only cat. I have been neutered and I am up to date on all vaccinations.

Come to the shelter and Meet me today. I want to go home with 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 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 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 March 21, 2022 Deputies responded to a harassment complaint from a walk-in complainant.

March 22, 2022 Heather Hilderbrand, 47 of Mena was arrested on charges of Disorderly Conduct and Obstructing Governmental Operations.

and Fictitious Tags.

Laine Barber, 27 of Mena was arrested on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine or Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

A traffic stop on Hwy 71 S between Hatfield and Cove led to the arrest of Robert Wallis, 41 of Mena on a charge of Fleeing on Foot. Wallis was also served a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant and a Body Attachment.

Deputies took a report of a gas drive off from a station near Cove.

MENA POLICE REPORTS March 20 No reports.

March 21 Benjamin Farley, 23, was served with two warrants after contact on Faye Street.

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

Bradley Moss, 45, was served with a warrant at Walmart.

March 24 A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Jones Street.

Christopher Hoover, 40, was served with two warrants at PCDC. March 25 Tim Robertson, 35, was charged with Public Intoxication on North Morrow Street.

Loyd Bolton, 51, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Highway 71 North.

A report of possession of drug paraphernalia was taken at a residence on Morrow Street.

March 26 March 22 Chrystal Davis, 38, was charged A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken at a residence with Theft at Dollar General. on Miller Avenue.

A report of theft was taken at a residence on Highway 71 South.

Tiara Wolf, 43, was charged with Dog Running at Large after a complaint on Polk Street.

Shawnna Morris, 25, was charged with Public Intoxication at Exxon Superstation.

A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken at a residence on Golihar Lane.

March 26, 2022 Joshua Caddy, 32 of Sulphur Rock was arrested by an officer with the US Forest Service on March 24, 2022 charges of Possession of a ConTony Foster, 36 of Mena was trolled Substance, Refusal to Subarrested by an officer with Probamit to a Chemical Test and DWI. tion Parole on a Probation Violation Warrant.

March 27, 2022 A report of a domestic disDeputies responded to a report turbance at a residence on Carof Harassment. ter Creek Lane led to the arrest of Shelby Hoyle, 24 of Mena on Polk County Sheriff ’s Office charges of Domestic Battery 3rd worked 1 vehicle accident this March 23 Degree, Disorderly Conduct and week.

A report of possession of meth Criminal Mischief 1st Degree. was taken after a traffic stop on Polk County Detention Center Highway 71 North.

March 25, 2022 Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated A report of criminal mischief Bruce Huber, 34 of Mena was Inmates, with 7 Inmates current- was taken at a shop on Reine arrested on two Felony Failure ly on the Waiting List for a State Street. to Appear Warrants as well as Facility. charges of Driving on a Suspended License, No Proof of Insurance March 23, 2022 No reports were filed.

Police 33

34 News

By Trey Youngdahl

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

March 30, 2022

Jailhouse expansion project pushing forward

After setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction has begun on the long-awaited jailhouse expansion project.

The project was started during Sheriff Mike Godfrey’s term five years ago, when Polk County was given an ultimatum. Because of the building’s age, built in 1978, and the jail’s capacity, officials gave orders to either get the current jailhouse up to code or build a new one.

After a long, futile search for property to build a new jail for an estimated $12 million, the County opted to bring their current facility up to code and expand on the current jailhouse for an esti-

Work has begun to expand the jail’s capacity behind what was once the Mena Police Department, which is now located at 403 Dequeen Street, caddy-corner from its previous location.

(Trey Youngdahl/Pulse)

mated $3 million.

The current jailhouse was brought up to code by building a fence around the perimeter, adding a recreation yard, and expanding the kitchen, among other things. This was considered “phase one” of the project, and cost about $500,000 to complete.

The County has moved on to “phase two” of the project and has hired jailhouse construction company SouthBuild to bring the project to fruition. The expansion is projected to be finished in mid-Sept. to early Oct. of this year.

Funding for the project was originally to be sourced from taxpayers, but it was strongly opposed and was voted against by citizens. Because of good budgeting decisions, and the American Recovery Plan (ARP) grant totaling $1.8 million dollars, the project has been able to be funded completely without an increase on taxes.

“When I was campaigning, I committed to getting this done without a tax,” Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said, “The County has done a really good job with keeping our budgets really tight.

We’ve had probably a 5 percent ­or 6 percent growth on our budgets for six years, which is unheard of.”

When finished, the expansion will total between 25,000 - 28,000 square feet. The improvements will add space for 32 inmates, allowing for a total of 60 inmates housed.

THE POLK COUNTY

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By Jeff Olson One of the most famous and inspiring battle cries in American History is “Remember the Alamo!” I would venture to say that very few Americans haven’t heard this, even though perhaps some who have may be unable to place it in its correct historical timeline and context.

Of course, there are other lesser-known battle cries which, nevertheless, were important and played major roles in our nation’s journey. One of those I wish to highlight in the next several paragraphs. Though it has been overshadowed by Remember the Alamo, it most effectively served in tandem with it to further grow and galvanize General Sam Houston’s Army of Texas’ resolve and determination to defeat Antonio López de Santa Anna and win Texas independence.

This is a story that deserves to be told, retold and never ever forgotten.

In 1835, Mexico operated two major garrisons within its Texas territory: the Alamo at San Antonio de Bexar and Presidio La Bahia near Goliad. Béxar was the political center of Texas, and Goliad was geographically halfway between it and the major Texas port of Copano. Military and civilian supplies and military personnel were usually sent by sea from the Mexican interior to Copano Bay and then transported overland to the Texas settlements.

Because of its strategic location, Goliad played a significant role in the Texas Revolution (October 2, 1835-April 21, 1836).

Here I will highlight one chapter of this, one which is reprehensible and despicable, but also beyond measure in its contribution to Texas independence.

In the days following the fall of the Alamo, Mexican forces under Santa Anna continued to sweep across Texas toward Fort Defiance in Goliad which had been seized by the Texans the previous October during the Battle of Goliad.

On March 14, 1836, General Sam Houston ordered Colonel James W. Fannin to evacuate his 400-man force from Goliad and retreat 30 miles east to the town of Victoria which provided a natural defense behind the Guadalupe River. Houston warned Fannin. “The immediate advance of the enemy may be confidently expected. Prompt movements are therefore highly important.”

Unfortunately, Fannin didn’t respond to the sense of urgency conveyed in Houston’s letter while a 1,400-man army led by Gen-

March 30, 2022

Reflections from History and Faith ...Remember Goliad! eral Jose de Urrea closed in on Goliad. For worthy of the highest commendation, and I whatever reason(s), Fannin remained in can do no less than to commend it to your Goliad until the morning of March 19. By Excellency.” Urrrea wrote in his diary that the time he ordered a retreat, Urrea’s ad- he “...wished to elude these orders as far as vance riders had already located the Texan possible without compromising my persondefenses, and the main army was just hours al responsibility.” behind.

Santa Anna, however, had no intentions Fannin finally followed Houston’s orders of showing such generosity. He ordered the to retreat, immedibut even ate executhen, didn’t tion of the proceed “perfidious with necesforeignsary expeers” and diency. It c o nv e y e d wasn’t long through a before the courier to Texians enGoliad that countered Lieutenant the MexColonel ican forcJose Nicolas es. Then... de la PortiFannin lla carry out made a his brutal critical tacdi re c t ive. tical blun- The Fannin Memorial Monument marks the grave of 350 Tex- An hour der. Rather ian soldiers who fell in the Goliad Massacre of 1836. after San(Photo courtesy of Jeff Olson) ta Anna’s than taking cover in the execution nearby woods, he ordered his men to form orders arrived, Portilla received the contraa square on an open prairie near Coleto dictory message from Urrea to “treat the Creek. While the Texians held their ground prisoners with consideration, and especialfor a while, the combination of low ammu- ly their leader, Fannin.” In the end, Portilla nition and water and the arrival of Mexican chose to follow the orders of Santa Anna. reinforcements during the night made their As Palm Sunday dawned on March 27, situation hopeless. Facing certain defeat, the the prisoners were divided into four groups.

Texians raised a white flag of surrender and While the sick and wounded remained in the were marched back to Goliad. There they chapel, the other three groups were escorted were incarcerated in the chapel at Fort De- on different roads out of town. To maintain fiance, along with other Texians captured in order, they were misled into believing they the area. were on a work detail. As they were ordered Undoubtedly, Fannin expected that his to halt a half-mile from the fort, the Texians men would be treated as prisoners of war soon realized what was about to happen. and given clemency. Perhaps Urrea gave The Mexican guards opened fire. Those not him that assurance, but if so, that was not killed by the bullets were slaughtered with within his authority. A decree issued by San- bayonets. At the chapel, the Mexicans exeta Anna in December 1835 ordered that all cuted the wounded. The injured Fannin was foreigners fighting against the government the last to be killed. His three dying wishes would be treated as pirates and executed. were to be shot in the chest, given a ChrisUrrea however urged Santa Anna to be tian burial and have his watch sent to his lenient toward the Texians. As Urrea ex- family. Instead, the Mexican commanding pressed to Santa Anna, “This show of gen- officer shot Fannin in the face, burned his erosity after a hotly contested engagement is body with the others and kept the timepiece

History 35 as a war prize. Several months later, General Thomas Rusk and the Texian Army gathered the remains of their fellow soldiers and gave them a proper military burial.

Nearly 350 Texians were executed in the Goliad Massacre, almost twice as many as were killed at the siege of the Alamo. The death toll would have been even higher if not for Francita “Panchita” Alavez (wife of Captain Telesforo Alavez), also known as the “Angel of Goliad” whose humanitarian intervention saved the lives of more than 100 Texian prisoners in seven incidents during March and April at Agua Dulce, Copano, Goliad, Victoria, and Matamoros.

The Texas patriots at Goliad did not die in vain. The Goliad Massacre had the opposite effect of what Santa Anna had intended by hardening attitudes toward Santa Anna throughout the United States, further unifying Texas resistance and increasing recruitment of new soldiers into the Army of Texas. Less than a month later, as Gen. Houston prepared his men for the decisive and victorious Battle of San Jacinto, he concluded his impassioned speech with the rallying cry: “Remember the Alamo! The Alamo! The Alamo!” His men resounded a reply with an addendum: “Remember the Alamo! Remember Goliad!”

In 1936, a century after the massacre, the Texas Centennial Commission created a series of monuments across the state to honor Texas heroes. The 35-foot-tall pink granite Fannin Memorial Monument was dedicated in 1939 and marks the grave of those Texian soldiers who fell at Goliad. Between the Presidio and the Fannin Monument is the statue of the Angel of Goliad.

In March 2004, the descendants of Mrs. Alavez gathered to dedicate this statue in honor of her remarkable courage and compassion, and to memorialize her unique place in Texas history.

Absolutes. The church that is the real body of Christ still believes in absolutes.

Some things are evil, and no amount of twisting can make them look good to God. Some things are good, and those are what Christians are to seek, fervently.

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March 30, 2022

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