Polk County Pulse- May 10, 2023

2023 Small Works pieces chosen

Article and photos by Ethan Nahté

The Southwest Artists 2023 Small Works National Competition is currently in progress and open to the public. The Gallery had 107 entries, 51 that were chosen to be displayed. A reception and awards ceremony were held Saturday evening.

Sandra Thomas introduced Barbara Lewis of Cove. “Barbara has been instrumental in the art gallery for many years and serving on the board. I’m happy to say she’s our judge this year. She’s got a rich history in art and painting. She is a graduate of the Memphis Academy of Arts.”

Following the awards presentation, Lewis said, “I started this show seven years ago. I actually put up the money,

indirectly, for that first one. [The Gallery] felt it would be good for me to judge this show.”

The winners of this year’s show:

Best In Show - Benjamin Water, “Winter Was Hard”

Arkansas Artist – Brenda Morgan, “Sunshine on Her Shoulder”

First Place – Theresa Grillo Laird, “Shelter From the Wind”

Second Place – Benjamin Shamback, “Mike’s Club Sandwich”

Third Place – Bob Holmes, “Evening Light and Shade”

There were also a handful of Honor-

See GALLERY continued on page 11

Mena Police motorcycle pursuit ends in crash

By Ethan Nahté

The Mena Police Department released a statement Monday morning related to the involvement of a police car and a motorcycle.

On Friday, May 5, “At about 11:56 p.m., officers with the Mena Police Department were involved in a pursuit of a motorcycle. The pursuit ended when a police car crashed with the motorcycle. The driver of the motorcycle was

transported to the hospital and the officer was uninjured. The pursuit is still under investigation. The crash is being investigated by the Arkansas State Police. For any questions about the crash, please contact the Arkansas State Police.”

Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer stated none of the Polk County Sheriff’s Department were involved.

A representative with Arkansas State Police responded, “Arkansas State Po-

lice is investigating the accident but no additional details at this time.”

No information was provided at press time as to the reason the motorcyclist was being pursued.

With the exception of the crash being reported as non-fatal, despite rumors being falsely spread on social media, no other information was provided by either law enforcement or the family of the motorcyclist regarding age, identity, or their condition.

Best In Show — “Winter Was Hard” by Benjamin Water

Mena Mayor Seth Smith signed a proclamation for Foster Care Awareness Month on May 2. The CALL in Polk County also had a praise and worship Encounter event at Grace Bible Church the evening of May 5. Foster families and adults who were once foster children were invited to provide testimonials.

(Photo submitted by Alyssa Green)

Thrailkill elected to Arkansas District Judges Council

By Ethan Nahté

District Judge Danny Thrailkill was elected Apr. 22 to the Arkansas District Judges Council at the annual District Judges/Clerks meeting in Little Rock. The term is for two years.

The Arkansas District Judges Council provides guidance and governance to the state’s 70 District Court Judges. The Council membership includes currently serving judges of the district courts and retired judges who served as district court judges for at least 10 years. The council conducts formal business meetings in the spring and fall of each year.

Judge Thrailkill is the 24th Judicial District Judge, which includes Polk, Scott and Montgomery counties.

1168 Hwy 71S

Mena, AR 71953

Phone: 479-243-9600

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To the editor:

In the interest of complete disclosure, I will admit up front I am a consumer of alcoholic beverages. As we used to say in the navy, we don’t drink a lot, just steady.

As a consumer of adult beverages, I have followed, with great interest, the path Polk County has followed to the advent of legal adult beverage sales within the county. All the controversy surrounding the successful attempt to legalize sales is nothing more than a tempest in a teacup.

The people who oppose the legal sales of adult beverages must realize that the liquor laws that exist, regardless of location, do not change the drinking habits of consumers. The laws change the buying habits of the consumer. I have lived in Polk County for almost 20 years. I have been reading the Pulse newspaper every week. If one were to read the sheriff’s report one would see at least 3 DWI arrests every week. A casual observer would see many empty beer cans on the streets of Mena on any given Sunday.

The push to legalize sales of adult beverages in Polk County is nothing more than a push to make legal what is already happening in Polk County. Maybe the legal sales of beer in Polk County will allow adults to buy their product in the Polk County and not have to drive to McCurtain County, running the risk of driving under the influence.

As I stated above, I am a consumer of adult beverages. Before sales were legalized in Polk County I would stop in Fort Smith or Hot Springs to purchase what I wanted thereby giving those cities the tax revenue. Now I can change my buying habits. I am glad to see the additional tax revenue come to Polk County.

In a year the tempest in a teacup will be over. Mena will not become a Sodom and Gomorrah. There will not be drunks passed out on downtown streets. Life will be as normal as it has been for the last several decades.

I would add two closing points. There was a push to ban alcohol in America. As history has taught us, prohibition doesn’t work. And two, you can’t legislate morality. People will do what they want to do.

Want to share your opinion?

arrests made” or “Polk County burns.” Would that be considered sarcastic or show superior insight for the conservatives, or to others you failed to mention who may not consider themselves a conservative but still voted against the measure? Or, would the alternate headline be acceptable because it favors the viewpoints of some?

As for whether I advocate or not for the sale of alcohol, or even how I may have voted, is irrelevant. There are matters on both sides that I agree with as there are matters I disagree with. Regardless of intelligence quotient, viewpoints, or how a story or headline is interpreted, I do try to present the facts from all sides that are willing to provide reliable information without my resorting to yellow journalism and sensationalism as some media outlets tend to do. I also do not concern myself with tallies.

Does that mean I must limit my output to a mundane headline in an attempt to appease everyone? I learned a long time ago that it is impossible, not improbable, to appeal to everyone. Regardless, it also means I am not attempting to pick on any person or subject matter, even if neither they nor a story aligns with my personal viewpoints. Any interpretation, positive or negative, is beyond my control.

Letter to the Editor

On March 23, 2023, Donna Lay had a letter to the editor printed suggesting I take up where Mr. Shelly left off, but dictated what I should write about. Then in the May 3, 2023, Pulse she asked if I did not have anything better to do than write letters. Apparently, Ms. Lay is confused, conflicted, or not sure how she wants to impose herself on others, uninvited and unsolicited.

The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language. Letters do not reflect the viewpoints or opinions of Pulse Multi-Media.

The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. Letters will be restricted to 500 words. Any letters longer than 500 words will require purchase of advertising space.

The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER.

Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher.

Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after-hour convenience.

Deacon

Larry Hatch,

Mena Letter to the Editor

I lost my vote during the election over the sale of alcohol. My desire was to let the topic rest but the sarcastic headline on the April 26, 2023, Pulse was a slap in the face for the conservatives that opposed the sale of liquor in Polk County. Polk County still stands although alcohol is now legal suggests a superior insight that the rest of us folks are just too dimwitted to see.

While the writers at the Pulse try to put in opposition points in their articles, it is apparent that they have been advocates for the sale of alcohol. For my part, just attempt to report the news (minus on line tallies) without bias.

In her most recent tirade, she goes on to suggest that I volunteer. To her clueless suggestion I submit the following. In Virginia Beach for five years, I was a sworn Auxiliary police officer (volunteer). Once I made the decision to apply full time, I found a need existed that I could fill by opening a store (C.O.P.S., an acronym for Chaplains Organization, Police, and Sheriffs) that gave food and clothing to those of our community in need. This was above my duties as a paid Police Officer done in my off time as a volunteer. Once I retired and moved back home to Mena, I volunteered at the Farmer’s Co-Op for 7-8 years. I think I have done my part Ms. Lay. How about you?

family members in your social circle. If you stick your nose in their business as you try to do in mine you can sure wear out a welcome quickly. Ms. Lay,I do not know where your anger comes from, but hope you learn to manage it before you alienate everyone around you.

As always, thank you for a forum to express my thoughts though we may at times disagree. But know if your attacks become personal that I will respond.

Cove The Editor’s Response

Barbara Gibbons,

Although the headline could be misconstrued as a superior insight, it was simply a fact. It could have easily read something akin to “Several DWI

She further goes on to suggest I donate books to the local library. My wife is an avid reader and we carted back boxes of hardback books from Virginia to donate, but the donation was refused. The books were pristine. Not likely I will donate cash to them.

I retired on a work-related injury and also had to fight for my disability and now have reached the age of 73. I expect no special considerations or pity. I am just glad I can do the things I can do.

I am starting to understand why you are losing

With respect and kindest regards, Ronald Goss, retired, Mena

Performance Team’s Easter egg hunt raises money for HHE

The Performance Team Easter Egg Hunt at Janssen Park had several donors who donated either candy for the egg hunt, or money to purchase prizes for the kids or for the raffle.

The money the Performance Team collected from the raffle was used for the $350 donation to Mena Schools being presented at Holly Harshman Elementary School.

• Performance Team

• Bali Mendels - Mendels Team

- Elite Financing Group

• Booth Land and Dirt Services

• Mena Title Company

• Sassafrass Bakehouse

• Stewman’s Flowers

• Wolfpen Creek Cabins

• Davis Brothers

• Roofing Force

• Washburn’s Home Furnishings

• Shelter Insurance - Kenny Miller

• Shelter Insurance - Telissa Montgomery

• University of Arkansas Rich Mountain

• Ouachita Mountain ATV Club

(Josh Barker/Pulse)

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Since its inception in 2007, the National Human Trafficking Hotline has identified 557 cases of human trafficking in Arkansas. Close to 1,500 victims were identified in these cases.

Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons or modern-day slavery, is a crime that involves compelling or coercing a person to provide labor or services or to engage in commercial sex acts. The coercion can be subtle or overt, physical or psychological.

For the last several years, the General Assembly has made a continual effort to strengthen our laws regarding human trafficking. In the most recent session, we passed legislation to expand civil remedies for trafficking victims, increase fines for trafficking convictions, and clarified language in existing laws.

Act 354 allows a victim of human trafficking to bring a civil action against a person or entity who knew or should have known that the individual was being trafficked.

Act 327 increases the fines for a human trafficking conviction and trafficking-related charges to a range between $5,000 and $15,000. The bill di-

rects that the fines be divided between specified funds that support exploited children and trafficking victims.

Act 330 ensures victims are eligible for crime victim reparations even if they do not cooperate with law enforcement.

Act 722 creates the offense of sexual solicitation of a minor and classifies the offense as a Class B felony.

Act 736 adds the words “reasonably should know” to Arkansas code regarding trafficking of persons offenses. It allows individuals to be charged if they knew or reasonably should have known they were benefitting financially or actively engaged in trafficking.

Act 772 clarifies the definition of “serious harm” under the Human Trafficking Act of 2013.

We will continue to review ways to prevent future trafficking cases and raise awareness of the issue.

To report suspected human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text the hotline at 233733.

During the 2023 regular session, which adjourned on May 1, the legislature enacted a list of new laws to protect the integrity of elections.

Act 352 prohibits election officials at the local or state level from accepting any funds, grants or gifts from any entity other than the governing body. Its intent is to prevent Facebook, Twitter and other private entities from paying for election-related expenses.

Act 305 eliminates write-in candidacies.

Act 353 prohibits counties from accepting absentee ballots in a drop box.

Act 236 increases the number of signatures needed to place a citizens’ initiative on the ballot. It would increase the number of counties where sponsors would have to gather signatures from at least 15 to at least 50. Canvassers would have to collect at least half the number of designated electors in the county.

Act 620 requires the state Board of Election Commissioners to conduct more frequent reviews of election-related documents and results.

It creates an Election Integrity Unit within the Attorney General’s office.

Counties would get reviewed when chosen by random or when chosen by two-thirds of the Board. Also, the legislature’s Joint Performance Review Committee could designate which counties are to be reviewed.

Act 544 also creates an Election Integrity Unit with the Attorney General’s Office.

Act 194 authorizes the state Attorney General to review ballot titles and popular names of proposed amendments and initiatives. For years the AG reviewed ballot titles,

but in 2019 the legislature transferred that authority to the Board of Election Commissioners.

Act 766 makes it a crime to destroy signatures gathered on petitions to place an issue on the ballot.

The bill was prompted by incidents that occurred when casino interests paid canvassers to gather signatures. Competing interests reportedly offered money, or harassed, to get them to stop collecting signatures or to erase the signatures they had already collected.

Act 300 schedules all special elections on the same day as ordinary elections, i.e., the May primary or the November general election date, except in years of a presidential election when the primary is in March.

Act 350 requires counties that choose to use paper ballots to use ballots that are compatible with machines used by the Secretary of State to count them. If counties do not use those ballots, they must pay for the expenses of the election themselves.

According to the emergency clause, the intent of Act 350 is to protect the integrity of elections that rely on paper ballots.

Act 462 sets petition requirements for new political parties. They must submit at least 10,000 signatures of registered voters. Previously, the threshold was three percent of the number of votes cast in the most recent election for governor.

Drag Racing

The legislature passed Act 714 to further crack down on drag racing. It grants police officers the discretion to impound motor vehicles that have been operated in a drag race, if the violation is a second offense. Recovering the vehicle would come at the owner’s expense.

John

Terry Rice

John Anthony Hensley

Mr. John Anthony Hensley, age 77, of Octavia, Oklahoma, passed away May 1, 2023. He was born March 9, 1946, in Mena, Arkansas, to the late Allen A. Hensley and Mary Adele (Wenzel) Hensley.

He is preceded in death by his father, Allen A. Hensley and his mother, Mary Adele (Wenzel) Hensley of Octavia, Oklahoma.

He left behind three brothers, Thomas A. Hensley of Octavia, Oklahoma, Timothy L. Hensley of Octavia, Oklahoma, and Joseph H. Hensley and wife Vada of Octavia, Oklahoma; four sisters, Mary E. Fontana and husband Jim of Phoenix, Arizona, Elizabeth A. Webb and husband, Mark of Collinsville, Oklahoma, Ruth Hensley of Octavia, Oklahoma, and Rita Hensley of Octavia, Oklahoma; as well as several nieces and nephews, other family and friends too numerous to mention.

Graveside services for Mr. Hensley will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Octavia Cemetery in Octavia, Oklahoma. Reverend Bryan Ketterer will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Judy Ann Ray

Judy Ann Ray, age 76, of Nashville, Arkansas passed away, May 2, 2023, in Texarkana at St. Michael’s Hospital. She was born May 8, 1946, in Delight, Arkansas, the 5th and youngest daughter of the late Clyde Jewel Johnson and Eula Mae McClane Johnson.

Judy was a member of Sunset Church of Christ in Nashville. She loved her cats, working in her yard, walking with friends, and most of all, spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She was beloved by all who knew her and had many friends who were like family to her and was known to be someone always willing to go above and beyond to care for and nurture those who needed it.

She worked at Husqvarna of Nashville for 35 years, beginning when it first opened as Beaird-Poulan in 1980. She retired in 2015 at the age of 68.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Helen Johnson Hicks and Clyda Johnson Avant.

Survivors include her three daughters, Teresa Jackson Miller and husband John, Tammy Jackson Cope and husband Scott, and Trina Jackson Holbrook, grandchildren Anna Combs Jones and husband Scott, Damien Cope and wife Tiffany, Brandyn Gortemiller and wife Cassondra, Sean Miller, Amanda Gortemiller Hohmann and husband Taylor, Abigail Cope Crow and husband Dustin, thirteen great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild, two sisters Earline Johnson Tipton and Faydean Johnson Gatliff, and many nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville, at 2:00 PM with Rex Roberts of Nash Baptist Church, and Terrell Polite, Chaplain of Heritage Hospice of Texarkana officiating. Visitation with the family will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials may be made to Judy’s Alzheimer’s Association Tribute Page. http://act.alz.org/goto/judyray

You may send an online sympathy message at latimerfuneralhome.com

He is survived by his son, Richard Howard Barrett, Jr. and wife Sonya; daughter, Rebecca Barrett; grandchildren, James Barrett, Anna Barrett, Ethan Barrett, and Stephen Barrett; sister, Velma Rans; and by a host of nieces, nephews, other family, and friends too numerous to mention.

Graveside services for Mr. Richard Barrett will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 5, 2023, at the Witherspoon Cemetery in Vandervoort, Arkansas. Brother Donnie Jewell will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation is general.

Pallbearers are Donnie Barrett, Hank Sandefur, Bill Barrett, Mike Rans, Randy Milam, and Perry Barrett.

Mr. Richard Howard Barrett, age 85, passed away Monday, May 1, 2023, in Mena, Arkansas. He was born April 3, 1938, to the late Neal and Matilda (Brun) Barrett.

Mr. Barrett was a firefighter by profession as well as a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Richard was united in marriage to Janice Elaine Pace on June 21, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. They were married for 57 years until her passing in 2020. Richard was a member of the Masons, and enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, and raising cows. At age 70, he decided to retire from raising cows and traveled extensively with his wife, Elaine, going to such places as Germany and all over the world. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren, and was well known for feeding his pet raccoons O’Roy dog food.

Mr. Barrett is preceded in death by his parents, Neal and Matilda (Brun) Barrett; his loving wife, Elaine Barrett; brothers, Charlie, Wes, Pete, Doyle “Doc”, John; and by his sisters, Orena, Lena, Maggie, Virdie “Shorty”, Ethel, and Bonnie.

Honorary Pallbearers are Dwight Barrett, Raymond Jewell, Keith Jewell, Tim Smedley, and Johnnie Barrett.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Kathy Thomas

Kathy Thomas passed away peacefully in her home on March 24, 2023, after a brief illness. Kathy was born in Mena, Arkansas, on January 5, 1935, to Ruth Corley Masters and John Dewey Masters, and graduated from Mena High School in 1954.

In 1955, she married Delbert Wayne Thomas, and the couple resided for several years in Salina, Kansas, while he was stationed at the Smokey Hill Air Force Base. Upon leaving service, they returned to Arkansas and had three children.

In 1975, the family relocated to Denison, TX, where Kathy worked in retail sales before serving as a 911 operator for the Denison Fire Department until her retirement in 1996. Kathy loved her family, often sharing childhood memories of time spent with her aunts Alcie Cogburn and Willie Jean Brassfield. In her adult years, she cherished her close relationship with her mother-inlaw Helen Thomas; son, Delbert (Tom) Thomas; granddaughter Delaina Nipper Smith; and cousins Bonnie Blackburn, Char Blair, and Tammy Rodgers. Kathy enjoyed her time spent with her close friends and entertained them often in her home. For many years, she was an active member of the Red Hats Club – Denison Chapter and enjoyed participating in many of their trips and social activities. Her dogs Andrew, Kaitlyn Dianne, and Jax brought her great joy over the years. Kathy was a member of Hyde Park Presbyterian Church in Denison, TX.

Kathryn is survived by her three children, Judy Thomas Harwronsky, Kayla Thomas Sofijczuk, and Tom Thomas, 11 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and brother.

ews and a host of other relatives and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Wickes Bible Church on Hwy. 278 E. in Wickes, Arkansas, with Brother Don Youngblood officiating.

Leon Evans

A private ceremony was held in Mena, AR, on March 30, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Denison Animal Welfare Group, Denison, TX. Leon Evans, age 67, passed away on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. He was born on Thursday, March 29, 1956, to Henry and Gladys Evans in De Queen, Arkansas.

Leon’s passion for the outdoors was best demonstrated through his love of trotline fishing, a pastime that brought him great joy and satisfaction. It was in these moments, surrounded by the natural beauty of the world, that Leon found his tranquility and peace. Leon was the type of person who would give you the shirt off of his back. In his younger years, Leon worked as a long-distance truck driver, an occupation that allowed him to explore many parts of the country that some are only able to dream about. Later on, he owned and operated a log skidder, a testament to his hardworking and dedicated nature. He loved his family and was proud of them all. Leon was a loving father, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Gladys Evans; and one sister, Lucy Robb.

Leon is survived by two sons, Wayne Ellis and James Pierce; one daughter, Jennifer Pierce; four brothers, Paul Evans, Robert Evans and wife Rosa, Earl Evans and wife Seven, and Jimmy Evans; five sisters, Fern Dering and husband Rocky, Kathy House, Robby Evans and Clyde, Mary Evans, and Arlene Midge Evans; several nieces and neph-

John Steven Sanders

John Steven Sanders, age 70, of Little Rock, Arkansas, died Thursday, May 4, 2023. He was born on Tuesday, September 9, 1952, to Gene and Reva Sanders in Mena.

John was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He loved Harleys, Corvettes, and the Dallas Cowboys. One of his favorite pastimes was loading up in the truck and heading to the creek making sure to take the long way back home. John loved to tell stories and never really knew how to “make

a long story short”. He was a loyal and faithful friend, spending a lot of his time staying connected with his lifelong friendships. He had a gentle spirit and a servant’s heart, always ready to help anyway he could. He will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents (Gene and Reva), sister (Judy Crawford-Campbell) and nephew (Adam Emerson).

John is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Charmaine Sanders of Little Rock, daughter Heather Larsen and husband Chris and their children Kate, Luke, Caleb, John Patrick, Asher, Jake, and Jude, daughter Jonté Cummings and her husband Aaron, along with their children Wilson and Mattie, son James Sanders of Eureka Springs, two sisters Jane Edwards and Nancy Emerson, and two nephews Mike and Mark Crawford.

A memorial to remember John will be held on Saturday, June 3, at First Christian Church in Mena, Arkansas, at 3 p.m.

Hunger for the Word of God

Over the years I have noticed that there is more than one kind of hunger for the Word of God. Hear me out. First, there is the hunger that comes from the human quest for knowledge. And the Bible is book filled with knowledge. Prophecy, history, culture, morality, and more and more. Prophecy is a very interesting study, for as each little bit is uncovered the quest is partially satisfied, but, it creates a desire for more and more. And in this it is the human mind that finds satisfaction. We are able to argue our viewpoints intellectually and that brings great satisfaction to the ego. And many “believers” are satisfied with that, and often think that this is their ultimate goal. And the knowledge of the Word of God is a worthy goal. But is not enough. It is not simply the mind that must be satisfied, it is also the spirit in us (John 14:17; I Cor. 3:16) It is our spirit that hungers and thirsts after the Spirit. Knowledge, yes, but far more important is the feeding of our spirits. We are, each of us, “spirit, soul, and body,” (I Thes. 5:23’). And each part of us longs for fulfillment, and the most important of the three is “spirit.” In the book of James, chapter two, verse 26 we find these words: “For just as the body without the spirit is dead so also faith without works is dead.” “ ... just as the body without the spirit is DEAD ... “ The feeding of the spirit is of ultimate concern, for we do not live for God apart from the living, thirsting, hungering spirit within us. And every regenerated person has that “hungering, thirsting, spirit.”

And when the precious Word of God is treated purely academically it appeals to the soul, with little help for the spirit. Paul had it right when he wrote these words: “For our gospel did not come to you IN WORD ONLY, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit” (I Thes. 1 :5). Those who teach or preach the words of Jesus apart from the power of the Holy Spirit feed the mind only and not the spirit. And that is not enough. It needs to be both! Knowledge? Yes! But not to impress someone. Knowledge controlled and empowered by the Holy Spirit is everything.

Paul wrote it this way: “What then? I will pray with the Spirit, and I will pray also with the mind; I will sing with the Spirit, and I will sing also with the mind”( I Cor. 14:15). The human mind MUST be in tune with and controlled by the Holy Spirit in order for the Word to accomplish what God intends.

Otherwise we end up with a group of”religious” people who have some knowledge but none of the life of the Spirit. And when that happens we end up with a congregation of people who are involved in the leading of others into their own death. They are those who “ .. .I know your works, that you have a name that you are living, and yet you are dead” (Rev. 3: 1 ). Of “Christianity” without the Holy Spirit Paul wrote these words: “ ... having an outward form of godliness, though denying its power, from these also turn away” (II Timothy 3: 5).

Good teaching can change lives. Hitler changed lives. Hitler changed the world. But change apart from the Word of God in the Spirit of God produces change that will never benefit us. Hitler changed the world, but only for evil. The Word of God in the Holy Spirit of God will do everything we need ... everything I

Knowledge of the Word, yes, surely, but the Word without the Spirit simply satisfies the mind, and that is never enough. Knowledge without the Spirit creates “believers” without the Life of God.

My name is Gene Stacks and I approve of this message.

Boozman, Wicker, Colleagues Introduce ‘TORNADO Act’

WASHINGTON (April 27, 2023) – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) led a bipartisan group of senators in introducing the “Tornado Observation Research Notification and Deployment to Operations (TORNADO)

of these natural disasters so we can prevent future loss of life and property.”

On March 31, devastating tornadoes and severe storms left a path of death and destruction in parts of Arkansas, claiming five lives and causing millions of dollars in

Act” to improve the forecasting and understanding of tornadoes and other hazardous weather.

The legislation would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to update its methods for predicting and communicating weather alerts to residents.

“In Arkansas we are unfortunately very familiar with the devastation brought by severe storms. In fact, communities in central and eastern parts of the state are cleaning up and rebuilding as a result of the extensive damage from recent tornadoes that caused the deaths of five Natural State residents,” Boozman said. “This legislation will modernize how NOAA communicates with the public during natural disasters to help keep Arkansans and all Americans safe and informed.”

“Even when tornadoes are well-forecasted, warnings do not always provide enough lead time to ensure the public can respond or seek appropriate shelter. The federal government has a vested interest in making sure Americans have as much notice as possible of severe weather,” Wicker said. “The ‘TORNADO Act’ would improve the forecasting and understanding

damage in the communities of Little Rock, Wynne, Jacksonville, North Little Rock and Sherwood.

The “TORNADO Act” would require NOAA to implement new technology and procedures that could help increase the lead times provided to the public in advance of extreme weather events.

Among other provisions, the bill:

• Requires NOAA to prepare and submit an action plan for the national implementation of high-resolution probabilistic guidance for tornado forecasting and prediction;

• Encourages NOAA to evaluate the current tornado rating system and make updates;

• Directs NOAA to coordinate with appropriate entities when conducting post-storm assessments to optimize data collection, sharing and integration.

Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Thune (R-SD), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Todd Young (R-IN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Boozman and Wicker as co-sponsors of the legislation.

Hebert property chosen as May’s Yard of the Month

Submitted by Rebecca Thornton

The Polk County Master Gardeners were proud to present the Yard of the Month to Edith Hebert, at 2205 Church Ave., Mena.

Edith and her husband Frank bought the acre of land in 1972. They later purchased another acre-and-ahalf. Frank then started Mena steel buildings.

In 1972, they spent all their weekends clearing acreage, bringing in loads of fill and topsoil, and raking for flowerbeds. They built two bridges on the property. While in high school, their son Bryan decided to bring in rocks from the creek. It has definitely become a beautiful focal point of the yard.

Frank passed in April 2010. This is a tribute to his vision of what their

home would be.

Edith said this is the passion they had for taking care of home and grounds. She says it has been a blessing. And it certainly shows.

Edith is still taking care and making Mena beautiful. Thank you Edith.

This new project presented by the Polk County Master Gardeners will be accepting more nominations for future Yard of the Month recipients, to be turned into our Polk County Extension Office, 211 Dequeen St., Mena.

Get a head start on your plants by attending the Master Gardeners annual plant sale at the Polk County Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. - noon this Saturday, May 13. It’s free to get in and look around. They accept cash and check only to purchase items.

Master Gardeners’ Rebecca Thornton (left) presents Edith Hebert with the Master Gardeners April 2023 Yard of the Month award at one of the two bridges on her property. (Photo courtesy of Polk County Master Gardeners)

By Richie Lawry

Even though I have lived in Mena, Arkansas, for over 40 years, I am still amazed by the area’s natural beauty. I love to travel and see America’s wonderfully varied landscapes, but when I come home to the Ouachitas, I realize that I live in one of the most beautiful places in the U.S.

I recently discovered a bit of history about this area that surprised me. I learned that in the 1920s, Congress introduced legislation that would have created a national park in this area. The proposed Ouachita National Park would have been 35 miles long and 12 miles wide, stretching through the central Ouachita Mountains of Polk and Montgomery counties.

The original proposal for a national park in the Ouachitas came in the early 1920s from business leaders in Mena, Arkansas. Their initial proposal for establishing Mena National Park focused on Rich Mountain, including the area now designated as Queen Wilhelmina State Park. But as the idea for a national park grew, they focused on a much larger area southeast of Mena.

Prominent politicians, businessmen from Arkansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana, and local leaders from Mena worked hard to promote the idea. They organized The Ouachita National Park Foundation Society to promote the need for a national park in the South. The society published a promotional booklet that extolled the area’s scenic beauty. It described the wide variety of vistas found in the proposed park. “There are steep, timber-covered peaks rising to 2,500 feet, long ridges of mountains, with peaks separated only by narrow green valleys with streams of pure, cold, spring water in abundance.”

Society members wrote many articles praising the beauty of the Ouachitas and the proposed national park. In November 1926, K. E. Merren published an article titled “Ouachita National Park Will Be a Dixie Paradise.” In the article, he wrote, “Few countries can surpass Arkansas in the beauties of its mountain landscape. The hills are wooded with evergreens and broadleafs, the pines appearing as bands of deeper green. Along some of the streams are mighty cliffs with tousled

An Arkie’s Faith Ouachita National Park

Robinson declared, “The failure of the bill is a distinct disappointment. The measure will be reintroduced in the senate when Congress convenes again.”

Congressman Wingo appealed to supporters of the Ouachita National Park, “Do not get discouraged, forget the disappointment caused by the pocket veto of the bill, and keep in the fight until victory is won.” He finished his appeal by stating, “I have greater faith now that the Ouachita National Park will be established than I ever had before.”

The economic turmoil of the Great Depression put plans for a national park in the Ouachitas on the back burner. The idea has never been resurrected, and what might have been, is now buried on the dusty shelves of history.

When I think of all the hard work, planning, promoting, and lobbying the Ouachita National Park Foundation Society did to make the national park a reality and how close they came to success, I remember what I read in Proverbs 16:9 (NIRV) “In their hearts human beings plan their lives. But the Lord decides where their steps will take them.”

cedars and straggly pines clinging to their unfriendly sides. Everywhere are springs, the purity of whose waters are unsurpassed. In the valleys are streams, broken by rapids and falls.”

But not everyone was in favor of a national park in the area. Roger W. Toll, the superintendent of the Rocky Mountain National Park, inspected the proposed park and asserted that the region did not meet the national park standards. He explained that the “Ouachita mountains are beautiful, attractive, luxuriant, verdant, friendly, and peaceful. They are not grand, spectacular, unique, nor superlative.” He concluded by saying, “The Ouachita area does not contain features nor scenery on a scale equal to, or even approaching, the majority of the national parks that have been established by Congress. The area would not add any new feature of importance to the national park system that is not already represented, in a higher degree, in the existing parks. In my opinion,

the National Park Service cannot consistently recommend consideration of this area for a proposed national park.”

On December 5, 1927, Congressman Wingo introduced legislation in the House of Representatives to create the Ouachita National Park, with a similar bill being introduced in the Senate by Senator Robinson. Despite the reservation of the National Park Service administrators, the prospects for passage looked good.

On February 17, 1929, the U.S. Senate passed the bill without a dissenting vote. A few days later, the House passed the bill by a vote of 164 to 71. It looked like there would be a new National Park, with Mena being the main town near the park.

The supporters of the Ouachita National Park were excited when their hard work was rewarded by Congress passing the bill, but then were devastated when President Calvin Coolidge, at the last moment of his presidency, pocket-vetoed the legislation by refusing to sign the bill. Senator

As much as I feel for those who worked so hard to make a national park in our area a reality, I’m glad they were unsuccessful. Maybe I am selfish, but I love driving through the area that would have been a national park and still finding secluded places to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Ouachitas. I can’t imagine what the area would be like if a national park had existed here for almost 100 years.

Gentle Reader, everyone experiences times of frustration over unfulfilled plans or dreams. When things don’t go how we hope, feeling disappointed is normal. We all have times when we aren’t where we want to be or where we think we should be.

But in those times, remember that “God is able to orchestrate everything to work toward something good and beautiful when we love Him and accept His invitation to live according to His plan.” Romans 8:28 (VOICE)

“People may make plans in their minds, but only the Lord can make them come true.” Proverbs 16:1 (NCV)

Every morning I take my cow on a walk through my vineyard. I herd it through the grapevines.

A stream located in what might have been Ouachita National Park. (Photo courtesy of Richie Lawry)

GALLERY

continued from page 1 able Mention ribbons awarded.

“I feel it’s extremely important that if a show has the word ‘national’ in front of it, it better be a quality show,” Lewis said. “When I saw it online — first of all, small paintings are hard to photograph, because sometimes the lines won’t be as clear. Small paintings are more difficult to do than a large one. I was kind of disappointed with it online, but it’s so much better than I expected it to be in person.”

There is a noticeable difference in viewing the works up close and personal versus in print or on an electronic device.

Lewis commented on the Best of Show winner “Winter Was Hard” by Benjamin Water. “Even online, I was drawn to that painting. First of all, the composition is very nice. The focal point is set slightly off center, which is good. He’s done such a beautiful job of these cool colors — his arrangement of those colors — a bit of light on the tree, then the mountain in the back is lit. I felt like the handling of the paint and

everything about it was really quality work.”

The image of a crescent moon above a mountain with the tree in the foreground has a lot of depth and dimension, which is another thing Lewis said drew her to it.

“I just think it’s beautifully done.”

The first-place painting by Theresa Grillo Laird is done plein air, meaning ‘out of doors.’ Lewis said, “I loved the handling of the paint in that. You don’t have a lot of time, which makes it even more impressive. She’s worked her warm and cool colors beautifully. The hill in the back has good dimension to it. The composition is very nice. It moves the eye around in the painting. I just felt like it was really deserving.”

New Mena Art Gallery Executive Director Taye Kaye said, “Artists, in order to build their careers, they need to win awards from certain shows that are juried that have a certain caliber of judge. This is a Signature art gallery, so that’s significant too. If they win an award at this gallery, they receive that Signature Status.”

There are many of the paintings by artists from other states, but Arkansas, including Polk County, is well represented. “Arkansas has a lot of outstanding artists,” Lewis said.

“People are shocked when they come to this gallery, particularly during these two national shows, that we have this kind of quality in Mena,” Lewis said. “Mena has a lot of outstanding artists anyway. I always felt it was vitally important considering our location, because we can’t walk into a New York gallery and see outstanding work. The

artists here, not to mention children and the other people live here, they need to see what good artwork is and be able to learn from it. A lot of people come to Mena – from Little Rock, Hot Springs, Fayetteville — specifically for these shows.”

“It makes it attractive to people who are visiting from out of the area. It says something about the community and the artists are supported.

The show went on display May 3 and will remain available for free public viewing through June 23. The public is welcome to come enjoy the art and vote

for their favorite in the People’s Choice category. Artwork is also available for purchase.

First place – “Shelter From the Wind” by Theresa Grillo Laird

Arkansas artist – “Sunshine on Her Shoulder” by Brenda Morgan

Third place – “Evening Light and Shade” by Bob Holmes

Second place – “Mike’s Club Sandwich” by Benjamin Shamback

Mena FFA students recognized at banquet

Submitted by Mark Hobson

Photos courtesy of Kristine Albin

The Mena Future Farmers of America Banquet was held on Tuesday, May 5, in the Ouachita Center at UA Rich Mountain. This is a different event than their dinner auction. Those students recognized included:

Discovery Degree

• Katelynn Canard

• David Dollar

• Rayleigh Goodnight

• Halee Hoobler

• Adelhei Look

• Brenlei Mirus

• Emmie Owens

• Leah Rexrode

• Cole Schauble

• Braydon Wright

Star Discovery Award

• Halee Hoobler

Greenhand Degrees

• Mason Burks

• Lynnlee Cook

• Mackenzie Davis

• Drake Dollar

• Grayson Farringer

• Ava Ruth Fields

• Gracie Gates

• Raegan Gates

• Sawyer Golden

• Waylon Head

• Allison Howard

• Sydney Jones

• Autumn Lockhart

• Hunter McClara

• Dax McMellon

• Dylon Morris

• Nayeli Pinon

• Aaden Self

• Sailor Stricklin

• Tucker Stricklin

• Layla Walker

• Taylor Watts

• Ashley Williamson

Star Greenhands

• Allison Howard

• Ava Ruth Fields

Chapter Degrees

• Lauren Beck

• Kassidy Valdez

• Jacquline Kirkendoll

• Jackson Howard

Star Chapter Farmer

• Cierra Dulaney

• State Degrees

• Lacy Floyd

• Claire Walston

• Kiylee Hughes

• Ranessa Ricker

• Layla Spenser

• Brendon Ricker

• Aslynn Jackson

Honorary Chapter Farmer Award

• Steve Swall

Forestry Team

• Aaron Ferguson

• Josh Ferguson

• Waylon Head

Livestock Judging Team

• Claire Walston

• Lacy Floyd

• Kiylee Hughes

• Riley Wiles

• Jackson Howard

• Halee Hoobler

Nursery and Landscape Team

• Cierra Dulaney

• Sydney Jones

• Jaeli Fields

Horse Judging Team

• Lynnlee Cook

• Ava Ruth Fields

• Case Wiles

• Ashley Williamson

• Jancy Harris

• Vivi Denton

Wildlife Management Team

• Dax McMellon

• Sawyer Golden

• Luke Floyd

• Janey Smedley

• Jacqueline Kirkendoll

• Aaden Self

Ag. Mechanics Team

• Johnathan Bauman

• Cody Short

• Madison Howard

• Cole Schauble

• Dylon Morris

• Katelynn Canard

• Braydon Wright

Vet. Science

• Ranessa Ricker

• Layla Spenser

• Allison Howard

• Brenden Ricker

• Gracie Gates

• Nayeli Pinon

• Leah Rexrode

• Brenlei Mirus

• Chandler Hendrickson

• Rayleigh Goodnight

• Emmie Owens Makenley Sullivan

Food Science

• Aslynn Jackson

• Autumn Lockhart

• Raegan Gates

• Lauren Beck

• Layla Walker

Parliamentary Procedure

• Cierra Dulaney

• Claire Walston

• Lacy Floyd

• Kiylee Hughes

• Vivi Denton

• Aslynn Jackson

• Addi Dollar

Extemporaneous Speaking

• Jaeli Fields

Conduct of Chapter Meetings

• Dax McMellon

• Allison Howard

• Ava Ruth Fields

• Mason Burks

• Layla Walker

• Sydney Jones

• Lynnlee Cook

Creed Speaking

• Allison Howard

• Gracie Gates

• Nayeli Pinon

FFA Knowledge

• Allison Howard

• Ava Ruth Fields

• Gracie Gates

Trap Shooting

• Luke Floyd

• Case Wiles

• Dax McMellon

• Dylon Morris

• Waylon Head

• Lacy Floyd

• Johnathan Bauman

• Sawyer Golden

• Kassidy Valdez

• Alanna Valdez

• Grayson Farringer

• Drake Dollar

• Aaron Ferguson

Jr. Trap Shooting

• Halee Hoobler

• David Dollar

• Katelynn Canard

Mena FFA Alumni Scholarships

• Ranessa Ricker

• Layla Spenser

• Addi Dollar

• Vivi Denton

Mike Collins Distinguished Leadership Scholarship

• Cierra Dulaney

Chris Jones Memorial Scholarship

• Aslynn Jackson

Jerin Ferguson Memorial Scholarship

• Vivi Denton

Polk County Cattlemen’s Scholarship

• Addi Dollar

Polk County Farm Bureau Scholarship

• Ranessa Ricker

• Vivi Denton

• Addi Dollar

• Cierra Dulaney

HSO’s spay-neuter clinics and Petco Love benefit the community

Submitted by Cheryl Murphy, HSO Secretary

On March 28-30, Humane Society of the Ouachitas hosted its second spay-neuter clinic of 2023 to benefit local pets and their owners! The service was provided by Ozark Mountain Mobile Spay Neuter Clinic of Arkansas, which travels the state to bring this service to small towns like Mena.

The Mobile Clinic performed spay-neuter surgeries as well as provided low-cost rabies vaccines. At the March clinic, a total of 132 animals received surgeries because of the caring and concerned pet parents who brought their pets to the clinic. Of that total, there were 85 cats and 47 dogs who received surgeries, and now have increased opportunities to lead longer and healthier lives.

Over the past year, a total of 181 cat owners were awarded grant funding through the Humane Society of the Ouachitas and thanks to national nonprofit Petco Love, which makes these vital surgeries possible. The cat grant is currently exhausted. Thank you, Petco Love, for supporting our pet loving community! Of the 47 dogs, 18 were paid for from a spay-neuter assistance fund established by HSO, which is funded by individual donors, who give to this worthy cause directly through HSO. HSO volunteers helped facilitate the three-day clinic, which was held at the Polk County Fairground’s facility. This team effort is deeply appreciated to assist with this crucial endeavor for the county. “All volunteers are to be commended for their dedication,” stated HSO Volunteer Board Member Denise Westphal.

“They are very patient and caring as they handle the frightened pets when arriving and waiting for their turn to have their surgery. They are also very attentive to the pets as they wake from their anesthetic. The volunteers put in some long hours and give a lot of love and comfort to the animals.”

The HSO Board of Directors commends Westphal, as well, for volunteering the last couple years to process clinic applications, schedule appointments, and award grant vouchers to qualified pet owners. Working together with the help of corporate and private grantors, and dedicated volunteers, pet over-population is being reduced in Polk County, Arkansas! The next clinic is coming July 18-20, 2023, and applications may be found online at hsomena.org. Scheduling will begin July 1.

Linda and Jimbo Davis’ rescue named Bootsie wanting her belly scratched. She was one of the 85 cats spayed at the March clinic. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Wickes Trade Day

Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Located in Wickes on Hwy. 278 on the lawn between Union Bank and the fire station. Vendor set-up is at 8 a.m.

Come shop for Mother’s Day and graduation gifts while supporting local businesses. Enjoy Hispanic food, BBQ, baked goods, tumblers wood works, items from Double R Forge, freshies, homemade cards, floral arrangements, key chains, clothes, jewelry, pony rides, face painting, music by Michael Eudy, and more.

* Event will be moved to May 20 if weather is hazardous. Vendors are not guaranteed to be present as unforeseen circumstances may arise. Call 479-216-8234 for any questions.

“Little Shop of Horrors” — Ouachita Little Theatre

Friday - Saturday, May 12 - 13 & 19 - 20, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 14 - 21, 2:30 p.m.

The musical “Little Shop of Horrors” by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman promises to thrill audiences.

Director Alex Night is assisted by musical director Judy Kropp who leads a full live orchestra.

Reserved seating is recommended and available online at oltmena.com or during office hours Thursdays and Fridays from 2 - 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and also available at the door.

Around Town

The Polk County Social Seniors will be meeting at noon on May 9 at La Condesa, 7532 Hwy. 71 South, Wickes. New to Polk County? Come and meet with other social seniors and have fun. Any questions? Contract Linda Johnson at (956) 241-2633. Bring a friend or more and enjoy socializing and eating. Need a ride? Meet at Walmart at Mena parking lot by gasoline pumps before 11 for carpooling. Will leave at 11:15 a.m.

A sing-a-long at First Baptist Church in Mena, Friday, May 12, at 6:30 p.m. Come to the sanctuary and enjoy the fellowship and we’ll sing your favorite hymn. Brian Gandy will be leading the sing-a-long.

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, noon - 1 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 p.m. on Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday, and 6 p.m. on Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at (479) 234-5289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300.

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

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

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

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

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

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows. Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m.

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

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

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

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

It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call (479) 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!

Mollie Gann Cemetery Decoration Day, Sunday, May 14 , 10 a.m. Will include meeting to discuss new and old business.

Owens Chapel Cemetery Cleanup Week is May 7 - 13. Decoration Day will be observed, Sunday, May 14.

Ink-Concord Cemetery Decoration Day will be Sunday May 21, with annual meeting at 2 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Concord Baptist Church. You may bring your maintenance donations then or mail them to P. O. Box 696, Mena, AR 71953

It’s time for the Cash Mob

Submitted by Pasha Watson

It’s Time for the Cash Mob, happening at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 13

The event will be hosted by American Artisans, 615 Mena St. Everyone is invited to attend. A downtown shop will be selected

by drawing, and then Mob’sters will visit that business, with a promise to spend $20. Have fun and meet other like minded folks while you shop local.

The Cash Mob is presented by Mena Downtown Partners.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Polk County Housing Authority will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at 10 a.m. The meeting will be in the Community Room at the office of the Housing Authority 509 South Morrow St., Mena, AR. Meeting is to allow interested persons to comment on the proposed adoption of the Annual Plan for the year 2023 pursuant to the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998.

A copy of the proposed Plan will be available for public inspection and copying at the Housing Authority office at 509 South Morrow St. beginning Wednesday, May 10th, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The public may submit written comments to Dixie Shrader, Executive Director of the Polk County Housing Authority, 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR 71953, no later than 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2023. T0510

- SERVICES -

Wendell’s Tree Service - Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328. T0531

Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T0510

Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts. Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976. T0628

Daniel’s carpentry and painting and handyman service. Deck and privacy fences, gutters cleaned, etc. Call (479) 216-1101 or (479) 216-2299. T0531

Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0628

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0531

Apex Home Services:

216-6634 T0531

- HELP WANTED -

F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0531

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced TIG Welder for a permanent day shift position. The applicant must be proficient in welding aluminum.

Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0531

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment

T0531

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

Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0531

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0531

Yards mowed, light home maintenance, quality work, dependable service. (479)

Police

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

May 1, 2023

Gavin Whitmire, 31, of Grannis was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole on a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant.

Christopher Shears, 48, of Cove was arrested on warrants for Criminal Trespass and Disorderly Conduct.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 8 W near Mena in reference to an attempted break-in. Deputies responded to a report of an assault.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 136 near Cove in reference to harassment.

May 2, 2023

Justin Holland, 39, of Mena was arrested on a Misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrant.

May 3, 2023

Joseph Stubbs, 46, of Mena was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole on a Felony Probation Violation Warrant and a Body Attachment.

May 4, 2023

Kathy Harper, 43, of Mena was arrested on two Failure to Appear Warrants.

Paula Drummond, 52, was arrested on five Failure to Appear War-

rants.

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

May 5, 2023

Cheryl Smith, 33, of Mena was arrested on a Failure to Appear Warrant.

A traffic stop on Hwy 71 S near Cove led to the arrest of Colt Young, 41, of Cove on charges of Careless and Prohibited Driving, DWI, Open Container and Refusal to Submit to a Chemical Test.

Deputies were dispatched to an area on Hwy 375 E near Mena in reference to a domestic disturbance.

May 6, 2023

Abram Abernathy, 26, of Mena was arrested on a Felony Theft of Property Warrant.

Timothy Bass, 43, of Mena was arrested on a Body Attachment and Felony Warrants for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Violation of Suspended Imposition of Sentence.

Coty Stiers, 33, of Gillham was arrested on a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant.

Justin Lincoln, 42, of Ashdown was arrested on a charge of Criminal Trespass.

Stephen Thornton, 35, of Mena was arrested on a Probation Violation.

May 7, 2023

Brandon Rose, 25, of Mena was arrested on a Body Attachment.

Micah Steffler, 37, of DeQueen was arrested on a Body Attachment.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 88 near Ink in reference to a battery. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked 1 vehicle accident this week.

Polk County Detention Center

Jail Population: 44 Incarcerated Inmates with 13 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS

April 30

A report of theft of property was taken from Walmart.

Adam Rose, 44, was charged with Possession of Schedule 4 Controlled Substance after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

May 1

A report of Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card and Theft of Property was taken from University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain.

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

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

May 2

Christina Kesterson, 36, was charged with DWI and No Driver’s License after an accident on Oak Street.

Griffin Head, 45, was charged

with Burglary and Criminal Trespassing at Walmart.

Anthony Robertson, 32, was charged with Criminal Trespass at Walmart.

May 3

Thomas Adams, 54, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Janssen Avenue.

Joy Reed, 34, was served with a warrant on Southerland Avenue.

May 4

Brittney Quintana, 28, was charged with Disorderly Conduct after a disturbance call at EZ Mart.

A report of endangering the welfare of a minor was taken at a residence on Averitt Street.

May 5

Dalton Sanders, 22, was charged with Criminal Trespass and served with a warrant at Walmart. A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Magnolia Avenue.

CRHS to say farewell to Class of 2023 on May 15

By Patrick Massey

WICKES – Cossatot River High School

is preparing to send off its 2023 graduating seniors next week.

The commencement ceremony for the Cossatot River High School Class of 2023 will be held May 15 beginning at 6 p.m. at Stevenson Gymnasium on the high school campus.

Other year-end events

The district will host the 2022-23 Athletic Banquet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 18. Tyson Foods will be providing the main dish of grilled chicken.

Organizers are asking athletes to provide sides, desserts, and drinks as specified below:

Boys’ basketball team members should bring a can of pork n’ beans to Coach Richardson no later than Tuesday, May 16.

All girls’ basketball team members

Davis of Mena selected to attend Arkansas Boys State

should bring a container of potato salad.

All baseball and softball team members should bring a package of Hawaiian rolls.

All soccer team members should bring a dessert.

All cheerleaders should bring drinks (two-liters or 12-pack cans).

Umpire

Umpire High School is inviting parents, students and community members to the 2023 Academic Award and Club Reception banquet on May 16 beginning at 6 p.m. Awards to be presented include for basketball, track, cross country, Archery, eSports, FFA, High School Academics, and Honor Roll.

The Elementary Awards Assembly will be on May 19 at 9 a.m. immediately following the kindergarten graduation ceremony.

CRHS relaunching foreign exchange program

By Patrick Massey

WICKES - Cossatot River High School

is seeking parents to host foreign exchange students for the upcoming school year as part of an educational and cultural experience for its students and families

Cossatot River previously offered a

similar program and Superintendent Dr. Tyler Broyles said the district is excited to bring it back.

“We’ve had this in the past, but we have it approved now for Cossatot River High School,” said Broyles. “Many community members have asked me about revising it. Under the leadership of one of our principals, Dr. Mary Lowery, she got us approved. We’re very excited about revising that program for the upcoming school year.”

Broyles added that the experience can be a life-shaping one for both sides of the program.

“It’s a long lasting relationship, great cultural experience on both sides, and one more thing we can offer at Cossatot River,” said Broyles.

For more information, call Jayme at 479-243-8744 or Camden at 479-2165707, or visit www.studentexchange.org.

LITTLE ROCK, AR (04/26/2023)--

Payton Davis of Mena from Acorn High School was nominated to represent his community and school at Arkansas Boys State 2023, an immersive leadership and civic engagement experience sponsored by the American Legion.

Davis will join more than 500 young men attending the program’s 82nd session at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway from May 28 to June 2.

“Arkansas Boys State is a legacy program that has produced remarkable local, state, national and international leaders,” said Lloyd Jackson, executive director of Arkansas Boys State. “That Payton was nominated to attend speaks volumes to his character, pursuit of excellence and desire to make his community stronger.”

During his week at Arkansas Boys State, Davis will be assigned a political party, city, and county. Throughout the week, he and his peers will administer, from the ground up, a mock government as if it were real: run for office, draft and pass legislation, solve municipal challenges and engage constituents.

“We like to say that Arkansas Boys State is a week that shapes a lifetime, and our tens of thousands of alumni can attest to that,” said Jackson. “We’re thrilled that Payton is joining us and will experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Davis and his peers at Arkansas Boys State will be guided through their experience by more than 60 volunteers who serve the program.

The staff of volunteers includes college students and career professionals with interests and expertise in education, finance, industry, politics and government, journalism, and more.

The week’s activities, including keynote speakers, general assemblies, and election speeches, will be streamed live by Arkansas PBS on their Arkansas Citizens Access Network:  https://www.myarkansaspbs. org/arcan.

Arkansas Boys State is an immersive program in civics education designed for high school juniors. Since 1940, the week-long summer program has transformed the next generation of leaders throughout the state and beyond. These men have become state, national, and international leaders, including Pres. Bill Clinton, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, former White House Chiefs of Staff Mack McLarty and Jack Watson Jr., Sen. Tom Cotton, Sen. John Boozman and Arkansas Chief Justice John Dan Kemp. Learn more at  arboysstate. org.

During their week at Arkansas Boys State, delegates are assigned a political party, city, and county. Throughout the week, delegates, from the ground up, administer this mock government as if it were real: they run for office, draft and pass legislation, solve municipal challenges, and engage constituents. By the week’s end, the delegates have experienced civic responsibility and engagement firsthand while making life-long memories and friends - all with our guiding principle that “Democracy Depends on Me.”

Mayor Smith visits Holly Harshman reading clubs

By Ethan Nahté

Mena Mayor Seth Smith visited the reading clubs at Holly Harshman elementary on May 3. The book “Take me to the River” by Will Hobbs is set around Big Bend National Park

Rio Grande was discussed… its ups and downs, economically.

The reading clubs discussed the economy of Mena, and students wrote individual letters to Mayor Smith. His response was to come visit with a power point presentation, charts and lots of enthusiasm!

He shared how he attended Holly Harshman, sat in the HHE library, grew up to explore so much in the world and returned home to make his home of Mena an even stronger place.

on the Texas/Mexico border, with the Rio Grande dividing the two. The history of a small Mexican village that is an actual place on the

Two goals were accomplished through Mayor Smith’s visit: 1.) to encourage the students they have a bright future where they can be influential in a positive way, 2.) to explain how Mena is growing and how it will affect them in this bright future. Reading Clubs that meet each morning in the school library participated.

Mena Head Softball Coach Ray Hunter was selected as the 4-4A Coach of the Year. The Mena Ladycats are the 4-4A Conference Champs. They ended their season in the 4A North Regional Tournament on Thursday, losing to Farmington in extra innings 7-3. They finished the season with a 16-10 record.

(Submitted photo)

Mount Ida Lions show spirit in Regionals

By Ethan Nahté

The Mount Ida Lions showed some ferocity and spirit as they went to the Regional playoffs in southern Arkansas last week. Despite some wins and some close calls, the championship wasn’t in the cards for either of them, although the boys made the finals.

The baseball team went into the Regional playoffs as the 7-1A District Champions. They played the Bearden Bears in the first round of baseball at the Regional 1A-4 tournament in Bradley on Thursday. The Lions started the bottom of the first with a home run by Jacob Whitfield and did not let up.

The Lions then faced the Hampton Bulldogs in the semi-finals round the next day. The first inning saw the teams tied 0-0, then the Lions opened it up at the bottom of the second, scoring seven. Hampton scored their only run the next inning, while Mount Ida went on to score four more runs in the sixth, winning the game 11-1.

Saturday’s games were delayed due to storms throughout the night and early morning, leaving Bradley, Arkansas, not too far from the Arkansas/Louisiana state line, sweltering as the Lions were going against the defending 1A state champs, the Taylor Tigers. Despite their previous wins in District and the previous Regional rounds, Mount Ida seemed to have used up their pitchers.

Taylor scored one in the top of the first, then five more in the second.

By the third inning, and after two pitcher

changes, Taylor was ahead 13-0 before Mount Ida finally crossed the plate.

By the fifth inning, the Lions had managed to prevent the Tigers from scoring again, but it was too little, too late as they only plated one more run with Jacob Woodfield hitting his third home run in the championships. Mount Ida lost 13-2, finishing as the 1A-4 Regional Runner-up.

The boys take on County Line in the state playoffs at 12:30 on Thursday, May 11. The game is scheduled to be broadcast on KQOR 105.3 FM.

The Mount Ida girls went into the Regional tourney as the 7-1A District Runner-up. They squeezed past Hampton Thursday night with a 10-9 victory.

Friday night against Bradley became a nightmare for a team that only had nine players and no back-ups. Peyton Macejewski collided in the outfield with Brecken Scott going for a fly ball. Peyton left the game and the team had to play with eight, leaving the right and left fielder trying to cover their own territory plus center field. Bradley took advantage and dropped one ball after another into center, blanking the Lions 10-0.

Saturday, on the wet fields in muggy conditions, the girls had to start with a full roster against Emerson. Peyton made it through the first pitch and that was it for her. Another injury forced the girls to forfeit, placing them fourth in the Regional tournament.

The softball team takes on Scranton at 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 11.

Bearcat football spring scrimmage and alumni tailgate

By Ethan Nahté

The annual Mena Bearcat alumni tailgate party begins at 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 23, near the front entrance of the stadium. The get together is for all former Bearcat football players, cheerleaders, band and staff to come enjoy some free food and fellowship.

At 7 p.m., the spring football scrimmage is scheduled to begin.

Bearcats honor Nature Brown’s memory on new helmets

By Ethan Nahté

The Mena Bearcats football team has a new design for their helmets for the 2023 season, and it has something extra along with the bearcat mascot and paw. According to the team’s Facebook post: “This season we will also honor Nature Brown with ‘NB’ stickers on the back of our helmet. We will also carry his jersey to all of our games. 2023 would have been Nature’s Senior Season!”

Nature Alexander Brown, Sept. 30, 2005 – Apr. 15, 2020, died in an automobile accident. The young teen enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors, in addition to football.

His parents, Rodney and Paula Brown, said, “Nature first started playing in fourth grade. The [Arkansas] Razorbacks was his favorite team. He wanted to be a linebacker and was trying to work up to that.”

Coach Craig Bentley was in his first year of coaching at Mena when the accident happened. “I coached him that junior high football season. He was a lineman, offense and defense. Nature had a great attitude every day and always wore a smile on his face. He was just very coachable and did everything you asked him to do.”

The team announced the new helmet design and announced the NB sticker would be a part of the helmets in 2023. Bentley said, “As far as overall helmet

design, after four years, we wanted to mix it up and it felt like it was a good time for a change. With the new design we use our secondary logo on the sides of the helmet while still using our primary logo on the front with a little more overall modern design.

“I reached out to Nature’s dad prior to publicly releasing the NB decals and he was very appreciative and honored that his son would be remembered in that way.”

Rodney and Paula were honored when Bentley sent a message to the family. Rodney said, “I started crying when I first read it. I couldn’t even finish it and I had to hand it to my wife to read. It’s an honor that people still remember him.

“When the accident first happened, they had a drive-thru at the school in Nature’s honor and they retired his jersey and have it in a case.”

“Losing a member of our team was very hard on everyone,” Bentley said, “especially the teammates in his class. He was a great kid with an infectious attitude and his memory and legacy still lives on within our program. The 2023 season, which

would have been his senior season, is dedicated to Nature.”

“We’re very honored and thankful for the football Bearcat Foundation honoring Nature and keeping his memory alive. I feel like it’s for Nature and us,” his father said.

“This is something I’ve had on my mind for a while,” Bentley said, “leading up to what would have been his senior season, was a couple of different ways to honor him. The decal represents that he is a part of every member of our team and that every member of our team can actively represent him. We will also carry his jersey out to the sideline for each game.”

“He definitely would be smiling down from heaven if he could see it,” Rodney said.

“We feel blessed,” Nature’s parents said. “He loved God and his family and his teammates. He was proud of being a Bearcat.”