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.

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)