Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
May 11, 2022
Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com
Open house held to discuss proposed multi-use trails
INSIDE:
By Trey Youngdahl
Post-Season Ball Games
Page 23
Healthcare Appreciation Week
Page 13
vice (USFS), and City of Mena managed lands. The project was first conceived in the fall of 2021. Currently, the city, ASP, and Arkansas Parks and Recreation
Foundation (APRF) are in the phase of the project where they An open house hosted by Arkanwill be determining trail zones, sas State Parks, the Arkansas Parks access points, and connectivity. and Recreation Foundation, and “All of the players on this projthe City of Mena ect were there, includwas held at the ing the forest service,” historic Dequeen Advertising and ProStreet Armory on motion board member Thursday, May Rick Chrisman said. 5, to discuss the “There were probaproposed Mena bly 200 people there, bike trails. which was encouraging Discussed was to see.” a biking and hikAccording to the ing trail system Trails at Mena website that will span (trailsatmena.com), the across Arkanvision for the project, sas State Parks developed in collab(ASP), United Suzanne Grobmyer (center), executive director of Arkansas Parks and Recre- oration with the land States Forest Ser- ation Foundation, looks on at the open house about the economic impact of the See TRAILS trails, and the different phases to follow. (Photo by Scott Sawyer)
continued on page 12
Polk County employees to get a raise
Hometown Hero Scholarship
Page 8
The Polk County Quorum Court voted to increase the pay of county employees and elected officials by 6% in their April 26 meeting. • That the annual salary for all elected county officials, excluding Quorum Court members, shall be and hereby is increased by six percent (6%) over the approved salary set forth in the attached Salary Schedule. • That said maximum salary limit
•
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shall be and hereby are retroactive to January 1, 2022. That, although this six percent (6%) raise is authorized, the final decision of whether to give any or all of this raise amount will be at the sole discretion of the elected official or department head who has direct knowledge of the employee and his or her job performance. That it is further hereby found and
•
determined that said salary and wage limit increases are essential to the administration of county personnel matters; therefore, an emergency is declared to exists and this ordinance shall be in full force and effect immediately upon its passage and approval. 5.That all longevity amounts shall also be increased by six percent (6%).
2 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 11, 2022
CRSD hires new school resource officer By Patrick Massey
Cossatot River School District has announced the upcoming school year will begin with a new school resource office. Officials with the school district said deputy Mike Underwood has been hired as the school resource officer for Cossatot River Primary School at the Vandervoort Campus. He will begin at the start of the upcoming 2022-2023 school year. “His assignment to CRPS means that each district building will now have a school resource officer dedicated to its campus,” said Cossatot River Super-
intendent Tyler Broyles. “Deputy Underwood brings valuable experience having worked in the Polk County jail, as a part-time deputy in Montgomery County, and as a part-time police officer in Grannis. Broyles said CRSD is proud to partner with the Polk County Sheriff ’s Department to bring another outstanding community member and SRO school resource officer to the school district.” [Eds. The Polk County Quorum Court voted in favor of an ordinance to create a new position of deputy sheriff/ school resource officer in their April 26 meeting.]
CRSD receives school bus safety award
By Trey Youngdahl Cossatot River School District (CRSD) has received the School Bus Safety Award for the 2021-2022 school year. Every year, the Arkansas Association of Pupil Transportation (AAPT) awards six schools across the state that exhibit exceptional traits in their school buses. The criteria for the school bus fleet includes quality of the school bus inspections, quality of the school bus maintenance records, cleanliness of the school bus fleet, quality of the preven-
(Photo courtesy of CRSD) tative maintenance program. CRSD has met this criteria, establishing them as one of the safest bus fleets in Arkansas for the 2021-2022 school year. “This award is a testament to the hard work of our transportation director Greg Ricks. He maintains an outstanding department, and that is apparent when you see our bus fleet,” CRSD Superintendent Tyler Broyles said. “We are fortunate to have Greg, our bus drivers, and all of our great staff. Safety is our top priority, and this is more evidence to that fact.”
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 11, 2022
Radio - Print - Web 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
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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. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Your Pulse!
Letter to the Editor I am so disgusted every year at the lack of care our local retailers give nursery plants every spring. Once the plants are delivered, they are neglected, and no one seems to care whether they ever get watered. I don’t know why it is so hard to understand that plants, especially in 6 packs, dry out in a matter of hours under a hot sun. There is very little potting soil around the roots, particularly as the plants grow. Some plants need shade. Sitting on tables in the sun is a death sentence. No one seems to care or has any knowledge of plant care. Within days of getting a fresh, beautiful truckload of plants, they are left to die. Once the roots dry out, the plant will never amount to anything. I complain and try to explain to employees how important it is to water and get nothing but disinterested looks. Please, retailers. Take care of those living plants or don’t even carry them. Karen Laible, Mena Letter to the Editor There were three more anti-Wet Polk County letters in this week’s paper (4 May 2022). More comments about how Mena will become a trash dump if we allow the sale of alcohol in the county (outside of the restaurants, that is). It’s so tiring to listen to the same lecture over and over. What I don’t hear the anti-Wet group talking about is the problems already in Mena & Polk County that cannot be blamed on the sale of alcohol. Do they honestly think there aren’t issues with DWI and domestic violence and so forth already in Mena and Polk County? What about the drug abuse and sales here? Drugs are illegal, yet here they are. If these authors are so concerned about the possible trash, we should ban McDonald’s, Sonic, Walmart, James’ and all the other places where you can carry things out. Their bags and cups litter the entire county. We should also get rid of the AA groups that are here, because we don’t need them in a “dry” county (which Polk is actually not). Can’t buy alcohol, so no problems, right? A “dry” county does not guarantee there will not be alcohol abuse. I know people who deal with the issue, and it isn’t because Polk County is “wet.” From what I’ve been able to ascertain from the several letters I’ve read, each of those authors believe Mena is a country area full of sunshine & roses and all that is dandy. These people obviously don’t drive or read. If they drove, they would see all the trash, including alcohol cans and bottles, along the roads, in parking lots, and everywhere else. If they read the papers, they would see that in the 4 May paper alone,
there were 2 DWIs, 2 Public Intoxications, 7 Domestic Batteries, 2 Batteries, 2 Harassments, 1 Altercation, 5 Thefts, and multiple other situations listed in the police blotters. I will be the first to admit that I love living here - 95% of the time. That doesn’t mean I want it to stay the same forever. I don’t want huge changes and too much tourism, but Mena needs it to survive. It needs the NEW MONEY, because without it, Mena and the surrounding communities will die. Thank you, Mary Meier, Mena. Letter to the Editor First, I would like to preface my thoughts by agreeing with Don ‘Cloud’ Davis, sitting president of political activist group We The People TEA Party. He stated, “I chose to live in Polk County because of what it is and what it isn’t ........ l value the fact that Polk County is dry ..... “ In the article “Polk County Growth and Advancement”, Little River County was given as positive statistics for legalizing alcohol sales in Polk County. One of the stats was a new liquor store would generate 4.3 jobs. We need folks to take the jobs that are already available. Every week the paper lists some of the jobs that are available. I have been told passing background checks and drug tests can be a problem! “Judge Cranford shared that there wasn’t a single negative impact on Little River as a result of the county going wet.” If our judge made such a broad statement, I can tell you that he does not know what goes on in every house. I can assume the same can be said for Judge Cranford. I had planned to write a long rebuttal for Mr. Cowden’s full-page spread but the letters in the May fourth paper convinced me that I just need to voice agreement for keeping our county dry. Using my own info I will restate a point in Mr. Cowden’s writings: As a Christian, a Constitutional Conservative and a retired schoolteacher, I firmly believe in our GOD-given right in America, to CHOOSE what we feel is best for us. I also believe in personal responsibility. I resent being told what I can or can’t do or how to live my life, by others who seem to think they know what’s in my best interest. Barbara Gibbons, Cove
Correction: On page 12 of the May 4, 2022 issue of the Pulse, the Cossatot River School District was inadvertently omitted from the list of participating schools in the 2022 Special Olympics Track and Field games.
Letters 3
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.
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Cossatot River School District athletes and company, pose on the Bearcat Stadium track before the Special Olympics event April 28, 2022. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
4 News
May 11, 2022
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
MHS celebrates Rod and Karen Purvis
The Mena Public Schools held a celebration for the retiring Rod and Karen Purvis. The Purvises have 28 years and 39 years of service, respectively, 67 collectively with 65 of those collective years in service to the Mena Public School System.
(Ashley Smith/Pulse) The celebration was held Monday afternoon at the Mena High School Library. After retirement, Rod & Karen want to travel and enjoy their family, and Rod plans to spend his time fly fishing.
Saturday was a gorgeous, sunny day, and a great start for The Master Gardeners Plant Sale was quite busy as dozens upon dozens of people made their way to the fairgrounds to purchase flowers, houseplants, outdoor plants, tomato plants and trees. Lanette Jordan was one of many with wagons or carts to roll out their haul. Jordan said, “Now, it’s time to go play in the dirt.” (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Politics 5
May 11, 2022
From the
State House of Representatives
All children deserve to can safely live in his or her grow up in a loving and stable home and community. Most home. Unfortunately, many children in foster care rechildren in Arkansas are lackturn home to their families, ing that stability. which is called reunification. Currently, there are more When children cannot return than 4,600 children in foster home, they find permanence care in Arkansas. There are John Maddox through adoption, guardfewer than 1,700 foster famianship, or other means. ilies statewide. You don’t need a lot of May is National Foster Care Month. money to become a foster parent. Children in foster care do better in However, you must have sufficient rehomes with families, not facilities. sources to meet the financial, medical, DHS needs caring, patient, and flex- physical, educational, emotional, and ible foster families who can provide shelter needs of the child without retemporary care to children while we lying solely on state or federal finanwork to get them safely back home cial assistance to meet those needs. to their original families as quickly as Foster home applicants must be possible. at least 21 years of age. Two-parent Foster care is home-like care pro- homes may apply and must demonvided by licensed foster parents and strate a stable relationship. A single providers for children who cannot person also may apply. live with their parents because they Foster parents do not do it alone. are either unsafe, have special care or They have multiple staff from the treatment needs that their parents are Division of Children and Family serunable to manage, or other circum- vices to help support the family. stances resulting in their parents or If you think you could provide a family being unable to care for them. loving home to a foster child, visit huPlacement in foster care is usually manservices.arkansas.gov to apply. temporary and gives families time to make necessary changes so the child
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 from distributing food and Last year the legislature enwater. acted a series of new election Act 736 changes the rules laws, and four of them were for voting with absentee balchallenged in court by plainlots. It states that possession tiffs who argued that they reof more than four absentee stricted voting rights. ballots is presumed to be In March the four new election fraud. Previously, laws were stricken by a cirLarry Teague possessing 10 or more absencuit judge after a trial of four tee ballots was presumed to be days. He ruled that they were proof of election fraud. unconstitutional and he issued an Act 736 also requires county clerks injunction ordering that they not be to provide the county board of elecenforced. tion commissioners with a daily In defending the new voting laws count of absentee ballot applications. the state attorney general filed an A controversial provision in Act urgent appeal at the state Supreme 736 directs county clerks to compare Court. signatures on applications for abIn April the Supreme Court oversentee ballots with signatures on the turned the lower court injunction. applicant’s voter registration docuThe result, for now, is that the four ment. new voting laws will apply when ArIf the signatures don’t match, the kansas citizens vote in the May 24 clerk will not send an absentee balprimary elections. lot to the applicant. Plaintiffs argued These are the four laws under chalthat a person’s signature changes lenge: over the years, especially if they get Act 249 repeals a previous section arthritis. of the law that allowed voters to sign Act 973 moves the deadline when an affidavit at their polling place if absentee ballots must be turned in to they didn’t bring a photo ID. the county clerk, from Monday, the Under Act 249, if voters fail to day before the election, to the preshow an ID, they must cast a proviceding Friday, before the final weeksional ballot and in order for their end of the election season. votes to be counted they must show One new law that is not being chalan ID to the county board of election lenged is Act 128, which requires the commissioners or the county clerk Secretary of State’s office to post samby noon on the Monday following ple ballots on an Internet site. the election. If you do an Internet search for Act 728 prohibits people from en“Arkansas Voter View,” the site opertering or remaining in an area within ated by the Secretary of State site will 100 feet of the entrance to a voting be the first in the list of links. You site while voting is taking place. An have to submit information such as exception allows people to enter or your name and date of birth. leave the building for “lawful purIf you’re registered to vote your poses.” name will appear, along with the adProponents of the bill said it aims dress of your polling place and a list to prevent voter intimidation, elecof early voting sites. At the bottom tioneering activities and violations of of the page are pdf files that can be the Americans with Disabilities Act, opened to show sample ballots. while objectors said it was overly broad and could prevent nonprofits
6 Obituaries Billie Janice McMillan Beaver
Billie Janice McMillan Beaver (Jan) passed away on February 17, 2022. Jan was born on January 4, 1936 to Roger and Wilma (Barber) McMillan, and raised in the rural community of Acorn, near Mena, Arkansas. She married Bill Beaver, also of Acorn, on January 16, 1954. After Bill graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1959, they moved to Arvada, Colorado, where they raised three children: Mike (1957), Ron (1959) and Shari (1961). Jan was active in the Arvada Covenant Church. During her working career she was employed by Jefferson County Schools and the accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche. Bill and Jan lived part-time in Arizona from 1997 until 2001, when Bill passed away. In 2002 Jan was also married to Paul Beagle from 2002 to 2012. Jan was passionate about everything she did but was especially devoted to her family. Jan is proceeded in death by her parents and sister Barb, and is survived by a grateful and loving children: Mike Beaver, Ron Beaver, Shari Weissman, six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, brothers Roger (Barbara) McMillan, Jim McMillan and Steve (Kathie) McMillan and numerous wonderful nieces, nephews and friends. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Kathryn Marie Winfield
Kathryn Marie Winfield, affectionally known as Kathy, age 83, of Cove, Arkansas, went to her Heavenly home on Sunday, May 1, 2022. Kathy was surrounded by her loved ones as she took her Lord’s hand. She was born on Monday, September 19, 1938, to Thomas Crystal Toon and Louella Dovie
May 11, 2022 Gordon Toon in Smithville, Oklahoma. Kathy was deeply loved by her devoted children and her husband of 64 years. They counted Kathy as one of the greatest blessings God had ever given them. She was a faithful and serving member of the First Baptist Church of Vandervoort, Arkansas, for 49 years. Kathy had the spiritual gifts of hospitality and being welcoming to visitors in the church as well as the community. She was a prayer warrior, with many believing her prayers are what helped them through their difficult times. Kathy used her servant’s heart to prepare meals for the church as well as the sick in the community. Everyone enjoyed receiving her muscadine jelly, apple butter, and fruitcake. Kathy accomplished many things in her life. When she wasn’t working for the hospital, she was working alongside Merle on the farm. Kathy was no stranger to a tractor or hard work. She helped Merle clear over 160 acres of timber along with growing their cattle operation. Of all the accomplishments Kathy achieved, raising a Christian family exceeded them all. She was proud of her children and loved being with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren any time the opportunity arose. Kathy loved the Lord with all her heart and wanted everyone around her to know the love of Jesus as well. She devoted her life to studying the Bible, serving the Lord and raising her family. In her spare time, Kathy enjoyed quilting, embroidering, and tending to her flowers and garden. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was preceded in death by her parents, Louella and Crystal Toon, sister-inlaw Linda Toon, brother-in-law Eddie Long, niece Kayla Long Phillips, nephew Doug Long, daughter-in-law Marcie Winfield, and son-in-law Oso Sanchez. Kathy is survived by: her loving husband Merle, son and daughter-in-law, Christopher Winfield and wife Norma of Lancaster, California, daughter Tonyia Winfield Nichols and husband Billy of Cove, Arkansas, daughter Sonyia Winfield-Hoek and husband Bill of Cove, Arkansas, daughter Karen Parnell and husband Donnie of Cove, Arkansas, and daughter Debra Cooper and husband Eldon of Mountain Home, Arkansas, brother Wade Toon and wife Chiquita
of Smithville, Oklahoma, sister, Wanda Long of Denton, Texas. 13 grandchildren, Gigi Reyes, Jessica Hammond, John Hammond, Bridgette Hams, Brianna Starr, Zach Winfield, Paige Najera, Amy Muniz, April Guthrey, James Jacobs, Elaine Lenard, Ridge Elmore, and Quist Elmore, 15 great-grandchildren, Aidan Winfield, Gabriel Winfield, Skyler King, Kashlynn Starr, Thomas Hams, Christopher Hams, Summer Hams, Sabrina Hams, Nicolo Cruz, Christian Jacobs, Ryker Jacobs, Adeline Strother, Presley Lenard, Everett Elmore, Juniper Elmore, and a host of other relatives and friends. In keeping with her love for children and spreading the Holy Word of God, Kathy requested in lieu of flowers or plants, a donation be made to The Baptist Boys’ Ranch or to The Gideons International. Donations are being received through the Vandervoort First Baptist Church and being forwarded to the requested organization. With either donation, a check may be made out to Vandervoort First Baptist Church with “In Memory of Kathy Winfield” in the memo line or at the following websites: arkansasfamilies.org or gideons.org. Visitation with the family will be held Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Vandervoort First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. The family would like to invite all of Kathy’s extended family and friends to gather for a time of fellowship and remembrance. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 6, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Vandervoort First Baptist Church in Vandervoort, Arkansas with her son Christopher Winfield and Pastor Aaron Anglin officiating. Pallbearers are James Jacobs, Elaine Lenard, Zach Winfield, Brianna Winfield, Quist Elmore, R. J. Lenard, Skyler Starr, and Jessie Oliver. A private family interment will follow at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas. Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Barbara Kennedy Barbara Kennedy, age 77, of Oden, Arkansas, passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2022, in Waldron, Arkansas. She was born on Sunday, March 11, 1945, to Elmer Isaacs and Nina Louise Parsons in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Barbara was a woman of faith, loved God with all her heart and attended Concord Baptist Church. She had a generous heart, and often volunteered at different hospitals, dressing up in many costumes and brought joy to many people. Barbara was the most giving person and would provide whatever she was able to anyone in need. She went above and beyond helping every person she met. She adored her cat and dog, Gabby and Dallas. Barbara was a beacon of light for her family, she cherished every moment spent with each and every one of them. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, and grandmother and leaves her family with an endless supply of happy memories. She is preceded in death by Donald Ellis Powers, Susan Kennedy and parents, Louise and Earl Parsons. Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 27 years, Charles Kennedy Jr. of Oden; three daughters Kathy Morton (Alan) of Tulsa, OK, Cindy Elliott (Robert) of Plano, TX and Deanna Armstrong (Dan) of McKinney, TX; Stepdaughters Judy Tullos (Myron) of Franklinton, LA and Pam Murphy (Royce) of Franklinton, LA. Stepsons Clayton Kennedy of Bogalusa, LA, Andrew Kennedy (Stacy) of Oden, AR, Edward Kennedy (Tracy) of Oden, AR, Benjamin Kennedy (Kimberly) of Franklinton, LA. Twenty amazing grandchildren, ten precious great-grandchildren and numerous loving cousins and family members A funeral service for Barbara will be held on Tuesday, May 10. 2022 at 10:00 AM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas with Brother Ree officiating. Interment will follow at the Woodlawn Memorial Park in Fort Smith, Arkansas, under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Monday, May 9, 2022, at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in Mena, Arkansas. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse By Ethan Nahté There’s no question it’s spring and the rainy season is here. Yet, even during a recent April morning when there was the possibility of a tornado sailing over Mena and Acorn, with skies dark and brooding as strong winds whipped trees about, snapping branches and rain coming down in sheets, there were drivers on the roadways with no headlights on. Despite the fact it was officially daytime, the time being what would’ve surpassed sunrise if the sun had been visible, some drivers seem to have the mindset they don’t have to have their headlights on during the “daylight” hours. According to a post on the Arkansas State Police (ASP) Facebook page, here are a few of the common questions they receive: When do I actually have to have my headlights on? The law below explains what time of the day drivers must have their lights on and explain weather permitting occurrences. 27-36-204: (1) Every vehicle, except motorcycles and motor-driven cycles, upon a highway within this state at any time from one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise and at any other time when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles on the highway at a distance of five hundred feet (500’) ahead shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices as respectively required for different classes of vehicles, subject to exceptions with respect to parked vehicles as stated. (2) (A) Every vehicle, except motorcycles and motor-driven cycles, upon a street or highway within this state shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices, as respectively required for different classes of vehicles, during any period in which the vehicle’s windshield wipers are being used for clearing or cleaning rain, snow, or other precipitation from the windshield because of inclement weather. The Arkansas Drivers Handbook states, in part, that external headlights help you see at night and help others see you. To alert other drivers flick your headlights, if needed…on rainy, snowy, or foggy days, it is hard for other drivers to see your vehicle. In these conditions, headlights make your vehicle easier to see. Arkansas law re-
May 11, 2022
When to use your headlights
The handbook also states parking lights are for parked cars. It is illegal in Arkansas to drive using only parking lights. U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) statistics from 2007-2016 show approximately 5.8 million vehicle crashes occur in the United States each year. Of those, 21%, just over 1.2 million, involved hazardous weather, resulting in 5,376 deaths due to weather-related crashes. In addition, 418,000 others were injured during that same time period. Why is this law not enforced? Wet pavement and rain were the top This law is what is called a “secondary law.” This does not mean it is not enforced. two contributors. DOT currently states It just means a trooper must have another on their site that 75% of weather-related primary reason to stop a vehicle or to de- vehicle accidents occur on wet pavement, tain a person before citing the driver for with 47% happening during rainfall. Most recent stats a violation from DOT of a traffic up the law that is numbers subject to to 5,700 secondary killed on enforcewet pavement. ments and There 544,700 are many injured. Of times that the 5,700, some drivthere are ers drive 3 , 4 0 0 with only deaths and their park357,300 ining or hazjuries that ard lights occurred on. On one Driving during rain without headlights not only makes it more during o c c a s i on , difficult to see the vehicle, but is against the law. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse) rainfall. I counted In com34 vehicles that passed me on a five-mile trip while it parison, the 10-year average combined was raining heavily. Six vehicles had their number of annual deaths involving floodparking lights on, 22 had no lights on, and ing, lightning, tornadoes, hurricanes, and five other vehicles, besides my own, were heat is a mere 379— 14 times less. Reports from various sources show Arusing their headlights. One of those vehicles was a “public” vehicle, but I’ll refrain kansas is repeatedly among the Top 10 worst states per capita for fatal crashes in from pointing out which department. The No. 1 rule: if its dark or raining, the rain. turn them on! Slippery Roads Other rainy weather driving tips from Parking and Hazard Lights Turning on hazard lights when it’s rain- the handbook include driving on slippery ing is illegal. Arkansas law states hazard roads. It suggests you decrease your speed light usage is not permitted while driving at the first sign of rain, snow, or sleet. except to indicate a traffic hazard. ASP These weather conditions can make the asks that you use your headlights only if road extremely slippery, which will not alyou are traveling on the roadway. If you low the tires to grip the surface. On a wet must pull to the shoulder, you can activate road you should reduce your speed about 10 mph. your hazard lights. quires drivers to turn on their headlights when windshield wipers are needed. The handbook also suggests when driving in fog, snow or heavy rain, you should use your low headlight beams. The light from high beams will reflect back, causing glare, and make it more difficult to see the road. Some vehicles have fog lights that may be better suited to use in fog, rain or snow.
News 7 When it starts to rain on a hot day, pavement can be particularly slippery for the first few minutes. Heat causes oil in the asphalt to surface on the roadway. The oil makes conditions more slippery until the rain washes it from the roadway. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also suggests increasing following distance to allow plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you. Water on the Roadway When there is water over the roadway, most tires have good traction up to 35 mph. In heavy rain, your tires can lose all traction with the road around 50 mph. The faster you move, your tires will start to ride up on the water, much like water skis. This process is called hydroplaning and the tires lose traction. The best way to keep from hydroplaning is to keep your speed down. Worn tires can cause your car to hydroplane. What should you do if your vehicle begins to hydroplane? Slowly take your foot off the gas pedal. Keep the steering wheel straight. Only turn the wheel in case of an emergency. If you have to turn the wheel, do it slowly, or you will cause the vehicle to lose control or skid. Do not try to stop or turn until your tires are gripping the road again. Turn Around, Don’t Drown Most people have heard the slogan “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” There seem to always a few drivers who believe the rule doesn’t apply to them for whatever reason. According to NHTSA, people often underestimate the power of rushing water. It only takes 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most trucks and SUVs. The CDC also states it takes as little as 6 inches of water to cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle. The CDC reports the most common type of flood-related drowning occurs when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. When you see the road is flooded, or if there are barriers blocking the road, turn around. If it is dark and you are driving in an area that is poorly lit, proceed with extreme caution to help prevent driving into water that may not be visible until it’s too late. It could cost you your life.
8 Education
May 11, 2022
By Jennifer Riley Stewart
Hometown Hero Scholarship founded at MHS
Webster’s defines “hero” as “a person of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his or her brave deeds and noble qualities.” Heroes come in many forms, ranging from family and friends to athletes and movie stars. Sadly, in today’s world the prior is replacing the latter. Long lost are the true small-town heroes that I grew up with. Teachers, doctors, nurses, soldiers, mechanics, repair men, little league coaches, Girl Scout leaders and ministers were the people we interacted with every day, and by their example we learned to become caring citizens and to put others’ needs before our own. Growing up in Mena, teachers were probably the biggest influence on me. Laverne Kelly was both my first grade and Sunday school teacher. As her obituary read “She was a lady of faith and love for her family. She was a follower of Jesus Christ and lived her life serving the Lord. She loved working with young people and being a wonderful example of a Godly educator.” It was just impossible to be in her presence and not love and admire her. Ask anyone from my generation who were the best teachers encountered, and almost all would name James Lynn and Joe Mannon. Mr. Lynn made sure every middle school child left his class with a college level science background. Everyone I know can still quote the definition of inertia, identify a venomous snake, and correctly spell dessert and desert. Mr. Mannon made history come to life, and as one classmate recently shared with me, “He got so excited about history that he made us excited about it.” He was such an influence over me that I majored in history in college. Family was a big influence on me growing up in Mena. I remember my dad, Clark Riley, getting up in the middle of the night to answer service calls for local businesses. They insisted they must have air conditioning before they could open for business the next morning. He told me these midnight service calls allowed him to perform service calls for the elderly free of charge. He knew they were on a pension and couldn’t afford a service call. Sadly, during the last two years, Mena has lost too many of these men and women— role models dedicated to the community—
to the pandemic as well as unfortunate accidents. This is how the journey to this Memorial Scholarship Fund started—thinking through the impact of those lost and how best to memorialize the people that meant so much to the lives of so many. The list is far too long to name everyone, but these are the ones who touched my life and left a lasting impression on me. The first thoughts started last fall with the passing of two people that played huge roles in my early life—Allen Stewart and Shelton Bohlman (yes, he did have a last name unbeknownst to most of us!). Stewart and his wife Mary played a huge part in my young life, and always made me feel loved and welcomed in their home. Stewart’s smile, quick wit, and good-natured ways made him loved by everyone who knew him. I loved listening to his Navy stories but his duty to community and country didn’t stop at his military service. He volunteered hundreds of hours as a founding member of the Board Camp Fire Department, president and state board member of the Farm Bureau, the Soil Conservation Board, and the National Beef Council. Bohlman probably touched the life of everyone in Mena along the way. My generation grew up with him as the unofficial town babysitter. Every parent in town could call the Cone n’ Cue and he would know where their teen was at any time day or night—much to the chagrin of many of us! Later, he became a florist specializing in beautiful arrangements for weddings, funerals and holidays—often delivering the flowers himself along with one of his delicious homemade pies to offer congratulations or condolences. As the year rolled on, so did the unfortunate news of lost loved ones: Larry McMellon, DeeDee Riley (my aunt), Jesse Cogburn, Cathy Anderlee, Marilyn Maxwell, Snapper Carpenter, Patrick Greene, Vernon Hampton and too many others. All were leaders in their own way, and examples of a couple immediately come to mind. McMellon was a Mena native and MHS graduate. While at MHS, he lettered in seven sports. His love of Bearcat sports was so great he could be found at MHS games long after his son Rob had graduated. In recent years, he could be found cheering on his grandsons at MHS events. McMellon
worked for the phone company in Mena for 33 years and, in the day of land lines, was a hero to many. When the line went dead, we knew “The Phone Guy” would be right over to fix it. In later years, McMellon volunteered as greeter at The Depot Museum, which allowed him to share his vast history of Mena with visitors. He was one of the founding members of the Freedom Water Association, which brought fresh, drinkable water to residents living out Hwy. 375. Rob considers it one of McMellon’s greatest accomplishments, saying that he spent years going door to door getting people to agree to let pipes be laid across their property. In many ways, like her good friend Bohlman, Riley kept track of everything going on around town and touched so many lives just by going about hers. A visit to her shop for a haircut was an adventure. You left with a haircut, a new story, life advice and usually a new dirty joke. Through the many comments after her passing, we have discovered that everyone in Mena has a “DeeDee” story. Like so many, I usually send a donation to a charity in memory of a loved one instead of flowers, but often, those gifts leave the community and seem to fade away with time. I wanted something that would stay in Mena and honor the generous spirits and memories of our citizens. With the help of Mena High School Principal David Maxwell, we decided to create the Hometown Hero Memorial Scholarship at MHS to provide something for the future generations of Mena leaders. My experience as a parent and volunteer has been that hard-working students in the middle of the class rankings are oftentimes overlooked even though they have the same or better work ethic as peers at the top of the class making all A’s. That grit and determination has often been the impetus to help students rise up, work their way through obtaining a college degree, and move on to great things where they end up giving back to the community in so many ways. This observation led me to the inspiration for creating the guidelines for this scholarship which is two hometown farm boys—Robbie McMellon and David Maxwell—who were my classmates and lifelong friends. Neither were honor students and, as Rob admitted to me, it was fair to
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse say they really showed up every day for the sports and the girls. However, they both had an amazing work ethic and never gave up. Former Rich Mountain Community College leader Jack Smith and others encouraged them to continue their education and go to college. They decided they would go to college together and be roommates. They flipped a coin to pick which college to attend. Henderson State won and they both attended and received degrees in education. David has continued his education obtaining his educational specialist degree, and working as a teacher, coach, and principal. He returned home as the principal at MHS while continuing to ranch and work his family’s farm at Ink. Robbie returned to Mena and went to work at the airport doing modification and recovery on airplanes. He founded R&C Aviation and employed as many as 17 people before selling the business to retire and spend his days farming, ranching, and volunteering with all the many sports his sons play. Both men show the true spirit of this scholarship by pursuing a college education, never giving up and returning to Mena to become leaders in the community and role models for a new generation. The Hometown Hero Scholarship has been founded at MHS so that local citizens can donate in memory of their loved ones, classmates, and mentors. The money stays in Mena to help a student who otherwise would not get a scholarship. For the first year the chosen student will receive $500 for the first semester and $500 for the second semester if they maintain a 2.0 grade average. The hope is to build the fund, so we can eventually increase the fund and provide more in the future. The scholarship is good for any college or trade school that the student chooses. The hope is that the student will return to Mena after college and become a leader and mentor to others. I want to thank the people who helped make this a reality: Scott Stewart, David Maxwell, the MHS Scholarship Committee, and the donors. To donate, mail a check to MHS, 1200 Dallas Ave., Mena AR 71953. Make it out to Hometown Hero Memorial Scholarship. Please include who your donation is in memory of so that we may notify the family. We hope to set up an electronic deposit method soon.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 11, 2022
Nance Selected for Arkansas Rural Education Association Scholarship
Education 9
Summer camps offered Submitted by Mark Hobson
Submitted by Tammy L. Young Acorn High School senior Abigail Nance has been selected as the Arkansas Rural Education Association (AREA) South Graduating Senior
The Polk County Farm Bureau presented 5 scholarships, in the amount of $1,000 each, to local high school seniors Friday, May 6. Farm Bureau is Agricultures’ biggest advocate and a proud supporter of these five local graduates. (l-r) Board President, David Head; Jacob Lyle and Justice Neufeld from Acorn High School, Alyssa Wilson from Cossatot River High School, and River Rogers from Acorn High School. Unavailable for the photo, was Allison Bates from Mena High School. (Photo courtesy of Polk County Farm Bureau Insurance)
Scholarship recipient. The scholarship award value is $1,000 per year and renewable for up to four years for a total of $4,000. The AREA Graduating Senior Scholarship is awarded based on nomination from Arkansas school districts that are current Arkansas Rural Education Association members. The scholarship rubric includes: ACT or SAT scores, teacher and principal recommendations, nominee’s special honors, awards, recognitions, extracurricular activities and nominee’s essay.
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Mena Public Schools will be offering a variety of summer day camp opportunities for students of all ages. These camps will be held during the month of June and will cover a variety of fun and engaging activities such as engineering, learning German, tabletop gaming, STEAM and STEM camps, coding, creativity classes and more. Parents and students can see the offerings and register by visiting the Mena schools page at https://www.menaschools. org/o/mena-high-school/article/736270/ and clicking the link at the bottom of the page.
10 Humor By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson Mumford Pickens is a right smart feller. He can speak and write a bunch of languages, but I can’t ever tell what’s true or not. He once told me that he was able to make puns in the Cherokee language. There weren’t no way to prove it. Then I remembered Chief Sitting Quietly. We set out a few days later to visit the chief to confirm Mumford’s boast. Mumford greeted the chief and started talking to him. In a couple of minutes the Cherokee elder started to laugh, more like a chuckle really. We left, and I had to hear about it all the way home. Mumford recently let me catch him working a Norwegian crossword puzzle, upside down, using a pen. He weren’t upside down, the puzzle was. This ain’t the first time;
May 11, 2022
Hogspore News:
Mumford Pickens is a right smart feller
I saw him pretending to solve one of them Sudoku number puzzles. It’s a square block with 9 inside boxes across and 9 rows down. Mumford was filling in the blocks without pausing. I was stupefied, till it come to me that something didn’t add up, mainly each line total was different. It’s supposed to be the same total for all the single rows and columns. He was just making the numbers up. Follow up: Chief Sitting Quietly, (and Chuckling), told me later that Mumford Pickens had given him forty dollar plus a jar of special untaxed whiskey to pretend to laugh at the Cherokee pun. The following may somehow have actually occurred at least once: A man is involved in a horrible car wreck. He’s hurt and needs medical
attention, but he’s probably gonna make it. A car pulls up; the driver gets out and runs over to help. Accident Boy says, “Are you a doctor?” “Yes, I’m a doctor, a psychiatrist, but I’ll stay with you till the ambulance gets here.” Accident Boy says, “You gotta call 911. Nobody has called yet, and I can’t use my cell phone cause both my arms are broken.” The psychiatrist asks, “Are your legs broken too?” AB answered, “No, but I can’t call cause I can’t get my shoes off to use my phone.” PB calls 911 to report the information on the location and adds that the injured man also appears to be quite sarcastic. PB stated, “The ambulance is on its way.” Suddenly, AB
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse starts screaming and moaning, so loud that the crows in the trees fly off, like AB is a farmer with a shotgun. PB said, “Calm down. Help is on the way.” AB keeps on yelling, so PB adds, “I know you’re in a lotta pain. How do you feel about that?” AB carries on shrieking in agony. PB drags out a notepad and pen and said, “Well, okay then. Now we’re starting to see some real progress. Go with that.” Hollywood Rumor: Tom Cruise and John Travolta are filming a movie together. It’s about two men who buy a Jiffy Lube franchise as partners. It’s called Top Grease Gun. Alex Baldwin is gonna be in another film soon. There’s no date set yet for when the shooting will start. The working title is Incident at the F-Stop Corral. Contact at Bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you wanna.
THE POLK COUNTY
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Community 11
May 11, 2022
Around Town The Polk County Growth & Advancement Committee meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at The Ouachitas located at 821 Mena Street. All interested community members are invited to attend. The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has re-opened. All meals and activities have reverted to their original schedules. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 385-2373. Decoration at Lone Valley Cemetery in Hatfield will be May 15, at 2 p.m. Donations to the cemetery can be mailed to Kenny Miller Jr, P.O. Box 237, Hatfield AR 71945
Participants will walk the 2k on the track, Wednesday, May 18, from noon-1 p.m. Call (501) 609-2711 for details. The Polk County Social Seniors will be meeting at the American Artisans, 615 Mena Street on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at noon. Bring a friend or more and have a good meal and socializing. Please call Linda Johnson for any questions at 956241-2633. See you there.
Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m., Monday; at 7 p.m., Thursday; at 7 p.m. Friday; and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at (479) 216-7249.
The Mena/Polk County Senior Center is putting together a bean bag baseball team and celebrating our seniors birthdays every 3rd Tuesday of the month. They’ll have a breakfast fundraiser, sponsored by 1st Freewill Baptist Church, Saturday, May 14, 8:30-9 a.m., for the cost of a donation. Breakfast will be pick-up or dine-in. 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.
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.
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) 2163786.
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
Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room behind Janssen Ave. Florist, 800 Janssen Ave. Starting at 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Come “Pick-N-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome.
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.
The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4 - 6 p.m., located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call (479) 437-4018.
GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10 a.m. - noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.
Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 a.m. - Noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need.
Ouachita Little Theatre will hold its annual membership meeting May 11, 5 p.m. at the OLT. The meeting is for all members. In addition to reports, there will be an election of new officers and a vote on changes in the OLT constitution. Please note, this is a new meeting date.
Ink-Concord Cemetery Decoration Day, May 15, with annual meeting at 2 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Concord Baptist Church. Bring your maintenance donations at this time or mail them to P.O. Box 696, Mena, AR 71953. The National VA 2k Walk, supporting homeless vets and promoting health and well-being, will meet at the Mena VA and walk to Bearcat Stadium.
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!
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive By Ethan Nahté
Be on the lookout in your mailbox for a grocery bag to help Stamp Out Hunger. The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) will be doing their annual food drive. They need your help to fill a bag and help feed families. Carriers will be picking up bag-healthy, non-perishable food items Saturday, May 14. Just place the provided bag by your mailbox. Your food donation will be delivered to food banks and pantries in your community. All donations stay in Arkansas. Suggested healthy, non-perishables include pasta, cereal, oatmeal, canola oil, peanut butter and canned goods, including beans, fruit, vegetables, soup, tuna in water, meat and sauce. Avoid glass containers. The National Association of Letters Carriers partners include the United States Postal Service, AFL-CIO, Local Food Pantries, Kellogg’s, Valpak, CVS Health, United Way, Vericast, and their premiere partner UFCW.
Tony the Tiger and Kellogg’s are one of the (NALC) partners to help Stamp Out Hunger.
(Photo courtesy of NALC) For more information, visit stampouthungerfooddrive.us, or search online at Facebook/StampOutHunger or Twitter @ StampOutHunger. Fill a Bag. Help Feed Families.
394-1938
TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHAUST • SHOCKS & STRUTS
Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm
1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash
12 News TRAILS continued from page 1 managers, is as follows: To create a unique and inspiring visitor experience with a focus on gravity fed and backcountry trails that allows for the realization of a higher potential for outdoor recreation, economic vitality, and quality of life by capitalizing on the terrain and relationships between local, state, and federal partners. The project is being headed by the USFS, ASP, APRF, and the city. “As the majority of the land area and potential for recreation amenities is on National Forest System lands,” the trails at Mena website continues. “The Forest Service anticipates a user agreement being formed with one or multiple of these other agencies.” Due to portions of the project being located on federally man-
May 11, 2022 aged lands, environmental review under the direction of the USFS will have to be conducted prior to implementation. APRF anticipates that ASP would be the primary permittee responsible for management of the trails. The next and last part of the planning phase of the project will be a city study, where walkability, bikeability and the streetscape will be considered, as well as making basecamp concept plans. Currently, it is projected to be finished in spring of 2023. “It was a really good feeling to have it all out in the open now,” Chrisman said. “I think that now that it’s out there, people see the magnitude of what it could be and the effects it could have on our economy.”
THE POLK COUNTY
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UofA Extension to host BQA workshop in Wickes
By Ethan Nahté
The Beef Stockman and Stewardship program will have two classes at the Wickes Community Center, May 20 and 21, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Each free session is limited to 25 participants per day, with a meal provided. Participants need to call (479) 3946018 to register by May 11 and let them know which day they plan to attend. Topics will include: Cattle Handling & Care, Biosecurity, Herd Health, Transportation, Environmental Stewardship, and Worker Safety. “Beef Quality Assurance, or BQA, is a national program meant to uphold best standards of animal welfare for the production of high-qual-
ity cattle,” said Heidi Ward, extension veterinarian for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and BQA coordinator. “At these workshops, ranchers learn the best techniques for everyday activities including how to provide lowstress handling as cattle go through chutes, how to properly use vaccines, and how to develop a herd health plan with a veterinarian.” There are 6 of these classroom and outdoor activity events held around the state, and this is the one for West Central Arkansas. Each workshop is tailored to address topics specific to that region of the state. Those topics generally revolve around cow/calf operations, stocker and seedstock operators. Participants will be BQA certified or re-certified at completion.
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May 11, 2022
Healthcare Appreciation Week - Charla Hollin By Trey Youngdahl
The University of Arkansas Rich Mountain (UARM) nursing program is led by a very passionate healthcare worker. Charla Hollin has been bringing up the next generation of healthcare professionals at UARM for over 30 years now. She had an interest in nursing even at a young age. “I had an aunt that was a nurse. I thought that was just the coolest thing,” Hollin said. “I never really had one of those ‘aha’ moments. I just grew up knowing that’s what I wanted to do growing up.” After attending Acorn schools for all 12
years, Hollin shipped off to the University of Arkansas Fort Smith, formerly known as WestArk. She graduated with her associates degree in nursing in 1983 before going back in 2000 to earn her bachelors. Upon graduation, her career started at St. Michaels hospital in Texarkana where she worked for 10 years. When she and her husband decided to move back to Mena, Hollin briefly worked at the health department before starting her career with UARM in 1992. “I love teaching. The thing I like about it is the variety,” Hollin said. “Sometimes we’re in a clinical setting taking care of patients.
News 13
current shortage. In 2020, ArSometimes kansas had 36,700 employed we’re in the RNs. As of February 2021, classroom or LinkedIn reported that reglab teaching istered nursing was the fifth the students most in-demand profession the skills. It in the American workforce. keeps things Charla shared her thoughts interesting.” on the nursing field, and why Currently, it’s a good career path. “It’s a Hollin teaches two nurswonderful career. It’s one of ing programs the few degrees that you can at UARM. get without any pre-requisite The Licensed classes. It’s only an 11-month Practical program,” Hollin said. “You Nursing procould have a really good cagram has 20 reer that pays well. A lot of students, and LPNs are making $25-$30 an the Regis- Hollin (right) pinning student Melanie hour. There are a lot of places tered Nursing Morgan at the Nurses Pinning Ceremony that are offering huge sign-on program has in 2016. bonuses due to the shortage.” 15 students, Although Hollin has dediwhich is lower than the normal amount. cated her life to her UARM program, she Due to COVID, the program has lowered does plan on retiring in the near future. “I feel like I’ve had a good career and that the normal class amount from 30 students. Right now, America is facing a massive I’ve really had an impact on a lot of people’s shortage in healthcare workers. The short- lives,” Hollin said. “At this point, I’ve probage has gotten so severe that it is estimat- ably had well over 700 LPN graduates and ed that 1.2 million new registered nurses around 150 RN graduates.” (RNs) will be needed by 2030 to address the
14 News
May 11, 2022
Matilda the Musical begins this weekend
Submitted by OLT Ouachita Little Theatre Director Jessica Kropp tells us “The cast and crew for ‘Matilda the Musical’ are talented and dedicated. The show is energetic and sincere. You won’t want to miss this classic story brought to life!” Showtimes are May 13, 7:30 p.m.;
14, 2:30 p.m.; 15, 2:30 p.m.; May 20, 7:30 p.m.; 21, 7:30 p.m.; and 22, 2:30 p.m. Reserved seats are available online at OLTMENA.COM or at the office Thursdays and Fridays 2-6 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., and also at the door before the performance. Adult prices are $15, children and senior citizens prices are $10.
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THE POLK COUNTY
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May 11, 2022
Mayor Seth Smith (front) signed a proclamation declaring May as Foster Care Month. The CALL in Polk County along with Mayor Smith wanted to show recognition to all of our Foster familes in Mena and Polk County. (back row: l-r) Cassidi Hankins, Kristi Hunter, Renee Hendrix, Alyssa Green (Photo courtesy of The CALL)
News 15
16 Faith
THE POLK COUNTY
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May 11, 2022
By Richie Lawry by Richie Lawry The sun shone brightly as we drove towards Bayou Black in Gibson, Louisiana. Our destination was Bayou Black Airboat Swamp Tours. An airboat swamp tour has been on my bucket list for many years, and today I was going to fulfill that wish. We made our way down a dirt road past the Greenwood Gator Farm with our Hyundai, dragging across the tall speed bumps. A gravel parking area and a dilapidated dock were at the end of the road. We parked the car and walked to the pier to wait for our tour. Even though it was only April, the Louisiana sun beat down on us as we waited. Before the airboat arrived, we could hear it in the distance. The big-block Chevy V-8 and huge propellor were very loud. As the airboat pulled alongside the dock, a ripple of anticipation ran through my body. We climbed aboard the airboat, and the captain handed each one of us a pair of noise-reduction earmuffs. We slowly made our way from the dock through a channel out onto Bayou Black. The bayou looked like a river with cypress trees draped in Spanish moss all along the banks. As we made our way down the bayou, suddenly, the airboat veered into a waterway choked with aquatic plants. But the boat skimmed along on top of the plants that completely covered the water. The sensation was almost like boating on land. As soon as I saw the swamp, I fell in love with it. I felt like I was in a surreal dream. The swamp is a magical place filled with unique wildlife, history, culture, and mystery. We made our way deeper into the swamp, and the captain would occasionally stop the boat so that he could tell us about the wildlife and plants in the area. He knew where every alligator’s territory was and had named them all. Often, the alligator was barely visible among the duckweed, and the captain used a long pole to tap the gator so that it would move and everyone could see it. Great blue herons, great egrets, and anhinga were often seen silently winging through the swamp. I was excited to see the colorful roseate spoonbills. We made our way out of the thick swamp, where the captain had to carefully navigate between the cypress trees into a much more
An Arkie’s Faith In the swamp
see the sky filled with bi rd s . Egrets and herons are everywhere, creating a symphony of cacophony. We spend several minutes watching the scenes before us in awe. As we leave the birds, we make our way along an area An American alligator is an important part of its ecosystem, the with tall swamp, which is a vital necessity to other ecosystems. grasses (Photo courtesy of Richie Lawry) and reeds, then the open area. Just off to my right were several very tall dead trees. At the top of one of them boat seems like it is traveling on land, and we was a large nest. An osprey soared overhead, are following a giant egret as it flies gracefully and before long, it landed on the nest. We sat through the air. The boat stops, and the capquietly for a few minutes and watched the tain points out a large area of native Louisiana osprey before heading to another part of the swamp iris. For centuries the iris has been a resident of Gulf Coast swamps and bogs, adswamp. The area we are now in is dark and thick mired for its airy grace and beauty. The beauand swarming with birds ruffling in the tiful water iris are in full bloom. As the tour is nearing the end and we moss-covered cypress trees. The vegetation is so dense that alligators are hard to spot. Sud- are racing down Bayou Black, I sit with my denly we burst out onto what seems like land noise-reducing earmuffs on, and my mind beand skim over the tops of plants, grasses, and gins to wander. As I daydream, I think about even flowers. Then, suddenly we are out on the general perception that most people have what looks like an open lake with beautiful of swamps: Dark, gloomy, creepy, and scary. blue water. I can hardly believe my eyes. The But I have just spent some of the best hours of captain cuts the engine and lets us sit quietly my life seeing exquisite beauty in the swamp. on the water for a few minutes soaking in the “Why are swamps considered so ugly and beauty. He tells us that next, he is taking us to a scary,” I wonder? I think back to a comment special place where hundreds of birds come to my wife made. She referred to Pastor John nest this time of the year. As we approach, we Taylor, who had grown up in Southern Louisi-
Joke of the Week:
ana. He always spoke with such loving memories of the swamp and assured his listeners that there would be a swamp in heaven. “When you get to heaven, find the swamp, and I will be there,” he would say. Thinking of what Pastor Taylor had said, my wife remarked, “It is so beautiful; I’m sure there will be swamps in heaven.” Swamps are necessary and provide a much-needed buffer from hurricanes. Wetlands and barrier islands provide a protective barrier from strong winds and hurricanes: every 2.7 miles of wetlands absorbs one foot of storm surge. Swamps are also natural pollution control. Because swamps remove nutrients, pesticides, and sediments from surface waters, they are called the “kidneys of the landscape” since, like kidneys, they filter out harmful materials. In Job 8:11 (GW), the Bible asks us, “Can papyrus grow up where there is no swamp? Can rushes grow tall without water? I’m sure that you have heard the political mantra, “drain the swamp.” Books and movies depict swamps as spooky, dangerous places. But my wife and I found it to be beautiful. Why the difference? If swamps are so essential and valuable, why are they viewed negatively? The airboat and its captain made the difference between a spooky, scary swamp and a beautiful, bucket list fulfilling tour. If the boat captain had tossed me into the swamp and left me, the swamp would have immediately turned into a terrifying place for me. But when I was seated on the airboat with an experienced boat captain in control, the swamp was beautiful. Gentle Reader, the life you have been given is beautiful. But without an experienced guide, it can be scary. You were not created to follow your path through this life alone. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” All of us need a guide. There are so many unknown paths in life; we need an excellent guide to help us know which way to go. Today, ask God to be your guide. Then you can say, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me.” Psalms 23:4 (NKJV) You can feel safe and secure even when life becomes a swamp.
Medical research shows that head lice are becoming resistant to current treatments. The problem has scientists scratching their heads.
Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-3949938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
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May 11, 2022 WARNINGS FROM THE WORD OF GOD By Gene Stacks
“AFTER that time two men will be in the field; one is taken, one is left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one is taken, one is left. Watch, therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord comes.” (Mt. 24:40-42) And, speaking of the TIME when His return is imminent, these words from Luke: “So also, when you see these things begin to happen, stand erect and lift up your heads because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:2831) No, we do not know the day, but we had better know the season!!! For some believers will “shrink away in shame” at His appearing.” (I John 2:28) Jesus warned us that the time would come when false prophets would abound. Charles Spurgeon wrote that “the time will come when in the church, instead of shepherds feeding the flock of God, there would be clowns entertaining the goats.” We have come to that. False prophets, false teachers, all having “itching ears” so that they will never offend anyone and be sure the folks get to hear what they want to hear. “For the time will come when they will not tolerate the sound doctrine but will heap up for themselves teachers having itching ears.” (II Timothy 4:3) Numbers have won the day. “WE’VE JUST GOT TO LOOK GOOD FOR THE WORLD!!” PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT!!! WITHOUT IT WE WILL BE TAKEN BY SURPRISE!!! Spurgeon is also credited with saying, “if after I have preached, I haven’t made some furious I haven’t done my job.” Speaking, of course, to and of those who hear only what they want to hear and judge the rest. And, the fact is, there are many who sit in church pews today who just simply do not know the One Who gave the Word. Jesus loves me is true and critically important, but there comes a time when believers must hear, “Must Jesus bear the cross alone, and all the world go free? No, there’s a cross for everyone and a cross for me.” We are several generations deep now in ‘believers” for whom the cross is a doctrine and nothing more. When Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ,” those words sink deeply into the hearts, minds, lives of those who truly know Jesus Christ. The cross is not simply a teaching; it is a life lived for Him. Cheap Grace is gaining ground rapidly. Bonhoeffer wrote in “The Cost of Discipleship,” “Once men have tasted cheap grace, they are forever barred from costly grace.” That is, once they have gotten used to hearing nothing but food designed for babies, they will not want that which is designed by God for growth and discipleship. Truth: a person can starve to death with a full belly! Junk food has just enough nutritional value to make it legal, but not to make it good for us. We can fill our bellies with it, and it may make us feel good for a while, but in the end, we shrivel up and die. So it is spiritually; we get spiritual junk food that makes us feel really good for a while, but sooner or later it lets us down. Spiritual junk food has as its base an appeal to the flesh, to the emotions, rather than to the mind and to the Spirit. And it creates the “Christian religion,” which is nothing more than some of the selected teachings of Jesus Christ, but without Jesus. One major mark of a false prophet or a false teacher is that they leave out many of the crucial teachings of our Lord. For example: the Biblical teachings of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. There is no Greek equivalent to the Hebrew FOR YAWEH, pronounced Jehovah, but the word kurios (owner, master) comes close once one understands kurios Is actually speaking of the “Godness of Jesus Christ.” Many omit “Lord” when they issue a call to salvation. Peter had it right. God made Him, both Lord and Christ. We dare not do less than that. Yet, many omit the Lordship of it. Example: “Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess, that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Sounds good, does it not? But it is far more than just a nice-sounding Biblical doctrine. One cannot, cannot teach the Lordship of Jesus Christ apart from teaching His ownership (kurios: Lord, owner master) and our stewardship (oikos, house manager). To be a steward means that He has entrusted us with His own things…the living out and speaking up the things of God. And, “Moreover it is required of stewards that a man be found faithful.” (I Cor. 4:2) He literally owns us, we have been “bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body and your spirit which are His.” (I Cor. 6:20; 7:23) And, maybe the worst deception of all, “We just want to win the world to Jesus.” They say this and deny the very basis of all of our Gospel. Before the world will accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, they must first know who He is, and He told us how to cause that to happen. It is false prophecy to neglect what He said about this. Unity???? No!!! Oneness? Yes!! “This is the way the world will know that the Father has sent the Son, that you have the same oneness (not unity) that the Father and the Son have. (John 17:11, 21) The so-called church of Jesus Christ is divided into hundreds of, often competing, denominations. “Christians cannot even get along with each other. Why do I need that?” It is a self-deception to say that we love and want to win the world to Jesus when we don’t even show the world Who He is, Change it up…do it our own way…maybe God will bless! No. We have not won even our own American culture to Jesus. We must have the blessing of God. We get that when we commit to the whole Truth, and nothing but the Truth. Make a “decision” for Christ; that will change the world. No. To make a “decision” for Christ is not the same thing as surrendering to Him as Lord and Savior! Not by a long shot. Once we have yielded to Him in the matter of Oneness…we must then talk about what it means to be a Christian in the Biblical sense. The real Church of Jesus Christ is not about “religion,” it is about Faith! Jude v. 3, we are to “contend for the FAITH once delivered to the saints.” We are not to “contend” for “religion” in any of its forms. We do not get to God on the basis of what WE do. That is what religion is all about. We get to God on the singular basis of what HE did on the cross! He said it, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Me.” (John 14:6) Faith means that we believe that and trust that to the exclusion of all other thoughts about the matter. It will soon be costly to hang on to that, but we must! This is fundamental in what Christianity is! In the very sermon of the Church Peter said, “…therefore God has made Him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus Whom you have crucified.” We dare not do less than this if we want His Presence, His power, and His blessing. Lord (kurios in the originals) means owner with no strings attached! It is still that way with Him… . He will bless HIS WORD, He will not bless our innovations. The ”Christianity” that much of the “church” is teaching and practicing has little resemblances to that which we read of in God’s Word. Leonard Ravenhill (“Why Revival Tarries”) wrote that the difference between the contemporary Christian church and the New Testament church is like the difference between the Grand Canyon and a cavity in a tooth. Confession and Repentance are needed and required. And then a real yielding to do things his way. The difference is astounding! And critically important. Agape Studies - (479) 216-9541
THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISEMENT
GROWTH AND CHANGE This article addresses the current petition to change Polk County from a dry to wet status; meaning allowance of alcohol sales. As most of us realize, Mena is experiencing growing pains and with that comes change. In addition to new residents, more and more tourists have found Mena. Let’s not go there for now. I’d rather concentrate on the petition. Current day “bootleggers” are considered the liquor stores and bars located just outside our county at the state line bordering Oklahoma and neighboring wet counties. Mena is not that far from the state line, and anywhere from 50 to 80 miles from a wet county. Staying a dry county does not prevent anyone from purchasing alcohol, but it does take away the potential revenue from Polk County. I did a little research myself at liquor stores in Poteau, OK and various locations in Fort Smith and Hot Springs. These retailers all know where Mena is because a high volume of their sales are from here. Hummm. The Pulse News had a great article in the April 20th issue, written by Trey Youngdahl, addressing the pros and cons of going to a wet status. Great research; however, the one statement that stuck like glue and was later retracted read, “…and have voted in the last four years.” The only requirement to sign the petition is that you are a registered voter in Polk County, nothing more. All of these articles are available online at MyPulseNew.com in the archives. Original article was written April 20, 2022, online repost of that article was April 22, 2022, and the correction (retraction) of the statement was in the April 27, 2022 issue. Petitions are available at the following locations: • The Ouachitas (coffee house), 821 Mena St • Little Italy Restaurant, 1411 N US 71 • Papa’s Mexican Café, 1317 US 71 S • Northside Citgo, 809 Hwy 71 N • American Artisans (deli & gallery), 615 Mena St • The Market (vintage store), 1601 Hwy 71 S • Big Fork Mall, 5988 AR-8 (Rocky Area) • Scotty’s Deli, 5602 US 71, Cove Fill out the petition at the location of choice. It will be witnessed and retained for final submission. That’s it. Remember, the only requirement to sign the petition is that you are a registered voter in Polk County. PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY KAREN SMITH
18 Puzzles
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 11, 2022
05.11.22
05.11.22
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 05.04.22
A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Meet Lil Guy Lil Guy is really handsome! He is an Orange Tabby with both stripes and circles! He is an indoor kitty. Lil Guy likes other kitties and is litter box trained. Get out the birthday kitty presents in November (11/03/2020). Everyone needs a Lil Guy in their life! All animals at HSO are current on their vaccinations and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption. If not already spayed/neutered, there may be a short delay between when you select this pet and when they are ready to go home.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Classifieds 19
May 11, 2022
CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -
- WANTED TO BUY -
Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T0504
I buy broken desktops and laptops. Mitchell Computer Services, 717 Mena St. T0608
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. T0601
- FOR SALE -
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. T0629 Jeremiah’s lawn care. Friendly service & reasonable rates. Call (479) 394-7599.T0615 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0629 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0427
- YARD SALE -
Yard Sale, Sunday May 15th, 2211 S. Mena Street, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Trampoline, home décor, crafts and decorations, household miscellany. T0511
- HOUSE FOR SALE Back up for sale 1998 Suns 16’x80’ 3 bed/2 bath at Jolly Hollow. Can be moved. $40,000 (479) 234-3498 T0525
CPR Registered Chihuahua puppies for sale. Blue bloodline. First shots given, dewormed, 8 weeks old. Adorable. Call (870) 648-5149 for more info. T0518
- THANK YOU Thank you everyone for the love and support shown while searching for Ronnie Toon. Thank you for all of the food, flowers and cards sent. We appreciate you all. - Dewey, Phyllis Toon and Family. T0511
WANTED YOUR ADVERTISEMENT TO BE PLACED IN 8000 COPIES OF A FREE WEEKLY PAPER AND DISTRIBUTED TO 200 LOCATIONS IN AND AROUND POLK COUNTY. CONTACT THE POLK AT
COUNTY PULSE
479.243.9600
- EMPLOYMENT -
- 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.
Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System APRIL 29, 2022 TO MAY 6, 2022
Casey Trantham & Willie Hamilton of Caddo Gap, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May. 1st Lauren & Tanner Kesterson of Cove, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born May. 1st Brittnie & Jacob Irvin of New Hope, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May. 3rd Karlie & Jordan Strother of De Queen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May. 3rd Angel Fletcher & Roger Felix of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May. 4th Katie Hinkle & Branden Dehart of Cove, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May. 5th
Affordable Health Screenings Coming to Mena Residents living in and around Mena can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening. First Baptist Church, located at 811 Port Arthur Ave., will host this community event on May 19. Screenings can check for: • The level of plaque buildup in your arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and overall vascular health. • HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels • Diabetes risk • Bone density as a risk for possible osteoporosis • Kidney and thyroid function, and more Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available. Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors. Call 1-877-237-1354 or visit our website at www.lifelinescreening. com/. Pre-registration is required.
20 Police
May 2, 2022 No reports filed. May 3, 2022 Deputies responded to a report of a stolen car from a residence on Bunyard Lane near Ink. Cody James, 21 of Mena was served two Misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrants. Deputies responded to a walkin complainant in reference to Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card. May 4, 2022 Deputies took a report of theft from a walk-in complainant. May 5, 2022 A search warrant was served on a residence leading to the arrest of Kenneth Fry, 50 of Cove on a Body Attachment and Probation Violation. Robert Wallace, 22 of Cove was arrested on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine or Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Jason Hoyle, 52 of Cove was arrested on Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Jearl Wilkinson, 37 of Cove was arrested on a charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Kristalynn Ollar, 32 of Cove was arrested on a charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Nora
Pulse
May 11, 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
THE POLK COUNTY
Taylor, 41 of Cove was arrested on a charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Methamphetamine. Also arrested was Tammy Moudy, 50 of Cove on a charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
MENA POLICE REPORTS
May 1 May 7 A report of harassment was taken A report of theft was taken from from a walk-in complainant. EZ Mart. A report of domestic battery was A report of theft was taken at Doltaken at a residence on Reeves Av- lar General. enue.
May 2 A report of harassment was taken from a person at Homewood CotMay 6, 2022 tages. Deputies were dispatched to a A repot of terroristic threat was residence on Polk 50 near Mena taken from a person at James’ Food. in reference to a verbal domestic. A report of theft was taken from a After further incident, Zachary walk-in complainant. O’Neill, 25 of Colorado was arrested on charges of Public Intox- May 3 ication and Disorderly Conduct. A report of fraud and theft was Deputies responded to a walk- taken at Sun Country Inn. in complainant in reference to Jennifer Tyler, 47, was served with Harassment. a warrant at District Court. Deputies were dispatched to a Cody James, 21, was served with a report of a dog bite. warrant after a traffic stop on HighDeputies responded to a report way 71. of theft at a residence on Hwy 71 Michael White, 56, was served S near Hatfield. with a warrant at District Court. May 7, 2022 Deputies took a report of livestock being killed. May 8, 2022 No reports filed. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 3 vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates, with 11 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facililty.
tion order was taken from a walk-in complainant. A report of theft was taken from Family Dollar.
May 4 Windal Loyd, 41, was charged with Criminal Trespass after a complaint on 8th Street. May 5 Gloria Clovis, 35, was served with two warrants on Cherry Street. May 6 Bryor Loyd, 19, was served with a warrant after a traffic accident on Dallas Avenue. A report of theft was taken from Walmart. A report of violation of a protec-
Fatal accident in Sevier County By Patrick Massey An accident Tuesday evening, May 3, in Sevier County claimed the life of a Kentucky man and left a Vandervoort woman hospitalized. According to the Arkansas State Police, 72-year-old Maria Diaz Deleon of Vandervoort was traveling northbound on Highway 71 when her 2018 Chevy Cruz struck a motorcycle in the opposite lane. The reporting state trooper stated Deleon was attempting to turn onto a side road when she pulled out in front of the motorcycle. The accident occurred around 7:20 p.m. The driver of the motorcycle, identified as 68-year-old Paul Mays of Heidrick, Kentucky, was killed in the collision and pronounced dead at the scene by Sevier County Coroner Rusty Williams. Deleon was transported to the Mena Regional Health System for treatment of injuries she sustained during the accident. The investigating state trooper reported road conditions as clear and dry at the time of the accident.
May 11, 2022 History 21 Pulse Reflections from History and Faith: National Peace Officers Memorial Day THE POLK COUNTY
By Jeff Olson
May is a month full of special days— proms, high school and college graduations, Mother’s Day, and Memorial Day. Also, for many families May is Decoration Month when visiting interment sites of loved ones has been a long-standing tradition. However, May is also the month in which a perhaps lesser-known day is set aside for a very special observance and one which I believe is every bit as important as Memorial Day: National Peace Officers Memorial Day. Sixty-years ago this fall, on October 1, 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726, a joint resolution of the 87th Congress, designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which that date falls as National Police Week (May 1117 this year). The resolution reads, in-part, “... Whereas these officers have safeguarded the lives and property of their fellow Americans: and Whereas by the enforcement of our laws, these same officers have given our country internal freedom from fear of the violence and civil disorder that is presently affecting other nations: Whereas these men and women by their patriotic service and their dedicated efforts have earned the gratitude of the republic: Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, that the President is authorized and requested to issue proclamations designating May 15 of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor of the Federal, State, and municipal officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.” This law was amended by Congress as part of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. President Bill Clinton signed Public Law 103-322, a joint resolution of the 103rd Congress, which directs that the flag of the United States on all Government buildings be displayed at half-staff each
year on May 15. This year marks 40 years since the first Peace Officers Memorial Day service. Then, it was held in Senate Park on the nation’s Capitol Complex with a gathering of approximately 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement. On October 15, 1991, The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. was dedicated to permanently record and commemorate federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and protection of our nation and its people. The memorial records those who died in the line of duty, dating back to the first known death in 1786. It is updated each spring in conjunction with National Police Week, which has since grown to a series of events which annually attracts tens of thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers to our nation’s Capitol. To date, there have been 22,611 names placed on the Memorial, which is visited by nearly a quarter-million people annually. In recent years, many of our finest in law enforcement nationwide have experienced a sharp increase in shootings and deaths among their ranks, placing them and their families in more danger than ever before. This is despicable and, in some cases, implicitly endorsed and even encouraged by some who desire a disintegration of order in our society and a dismantling of our fundamental civil and social institutions. Law enforcement and the criminal justice system alone cannot solve it and shouldn’t be expected to. In the words of author Russell Kirk, “If you want to have order in the common-
wealth, you first have to have order in the individual soul.” At its core, this is a culture war—a war in which we all must engage at the grassroots level for the preservation of ordered liberty in our communities and throughout America. We cannot be AWOL if we expect to win. National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day offer each of us a reminder of this and a special opportunity
to extend a personal heart-felt “thank you” to our local law enforcement officers for not only laying their lives on the line for the cause of order, justice and freedom, but in augmenting this core mission by the more subtle and often unrecognized public service aspects of their presence in our community. I think it is also important that we remind them of this throughout the year and how much they and their families will abide in our prayers. Lest we forget, the strongest bastion of America’s freedom is rooted in the strength and bonds of families, churches and other institutions within the civil/social order of local communities. The protection and preservation of these depend foremost upon the men and women who serve proudly and courageously, in and out of uniform 24-7. And, it must be said that their success and safety are in turn dependent to a great extent on the support each one of them receives from those who they’ve taken an oath to serve and protect: you and me!
22 Sports
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 11, 2022
Rose signs letter of intent with ETBU
Austin Rose signed This will be the third his letter of intent with time Austin has qualthe East Texas Baptist ified to compete in University Tiger Bass this prestigious event. Fishing Team. He will Last year Austin and begin his freshman Jarrett Burger qualiyear this fall. ETBU fied and competed in is the reigning MLF the 2021 12th Annual Collegiate National High School Fishing Champions. We are World Finals and Naexcited and blessed tional Championship to watch Austin as he (l-r) Leilani Rose (mom), Austin Rose, Cameron Burger(ETBU on Lake Hartwell in continues to grow and head coach), Philip Pete Rose(dad) (Photo courtesy of Pete Rose) Anderson, South Carlive his dream. Austin’s Basscat as Basscats. They will be com- olina, where they finished 15th career has been an incredible peting in the 13th Annual High nationally. School Fishing World Finals journey. Thank you to all of the Mena He and his teammate, Jarrett and National Championship in Basscat sponsors. A big thank Burger, still have a couple of June on Lake Pickwick and Lake you goes to Union Bank, Outbig tournaments to compete in Wilson in Florence, Alabama. Back Barn, UARM, and Nidec.
Bearcat alumni cookout All Mena Bearcat football alumni are invited to a cookout, Saturday, May 21 at 5:30 p.m. The hot dog cookout for former Bearcat football players will be a tailgate party at the Bearcat Stadium. At 6:30, the 2022 Bearcats play an inter-squad scrimmage.
Tri-Lakes Big Bass Festival set for May 28 By Patrick Massey The Sevier County Chamber of Commerce will kick off the 32nd annual TriLakes Big Bass Festival on De Queen, Dierks and Gillham Lakes. The event is scheduled for 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 28 at all three lakes. Registration fee is $45 and enters each angler into a chance to win some of the $14,000 in cash prizes for this year’s bass tournament – including the $1,500 top prize for the biggest bass. Registration forms are available at the chamber office on the courthouse square in downtown De Queen. This year’s event will include a registration bundle for $65 which includes registration fee and a tournament hat. Wear your hat at the hourly weigh-ins and, if you take first place, you’ll win an additional $50. For more information, contact the chamber of commerce at (870) 584-3225.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Sports 23
May 11, 2022
Baseball and softball post-season play and regular season wrap-up By Trey Youngdahl For most teams, the 2021-2022 baseball and softball season is coming to a close. The Mena Bearcats baseball team had an eventful season, ranking fifth place in the 4A Region VII Conference before their season ended with a 9-2 loss against Arkadelphia. The team rounded out the season with a 6-11 win-loss ratio. The Ladycats softball team, however, one-upped the boys, ranking fourth in the 4A Region VII Conference. They won all three of their home games and three of their six away games during the season, garnering a 10-7 win-loss ratio, leaving a few of their opponents with a goose egg. Their last game of the season in the 4A Regional Tournament hosted in Malvern saw a close 5-6 loss against Hamburg, ending their season. Tigers baseball at Acorn High School
had an incredible start to their season, beating Magazine 16-0, Waldron 150, and Lavaca 10-0 back to back. They had a 6-7 win-loss ratio in 2A Region IV. The Tigers finished second in the conference, second in the district tournament, and second in the regional tournament. As far as Coach Andy Arnold knows, this is the first time that the baseball team will be making an appearance in the State Tournament. The team will kick the tournament off by playing against the Rector Cougars Thursday at 12:30 at Southside High School in Bee Branch. Though they fought hard, the Tigers’ softball team ended their season with a 0-6 win-loss ratio. The Cossatot River Eagles had a fair season, seeing a 6-0 win-loss ratio, winning four of 10 conference games. They ranked sixth in the 2A Region VII Conference. The Eagles softball team also pushed
hard for a 1-3 win-loss ratio. Out of the 51 games this season, the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain (UARM) Bucks baseball team has had 395 runs, 51 home runs, and have earned a 35-16 win-loss ratio. Most recently, the Bucks took on Murray State Tishomingo (Oklahoma) to conclude their regular season. In the first game, the Bucks took a rough 10-0 loss. However, in the second game, UARM came back with a 15-5 win against Murray State. In region play, the Bucks didn’t lose any of their eight series this season, sweeping three of them. If the Bucks play well in the Plains District Tournament, it is an automatic qualifier for the winner to go to the NJCAA DII World Series. They will play at South Arkansas Community College, Thursday, May 12, 7 p.m. in Enid, Oklahoma. As of May 9, the Bucks are ranked No. 9. UARM’s Lady Bucks Softball team
has played hard for a 30-27 win-loss ratio, earning a .526 average from the 57 games this season. They played two games at home against Connors State College on May 3. In the first game, UARM beat Connors 6-1. They came back in the second game with an even higher ratio, winning with an astonishing 12-1. The Lady Bucks will continue their season at Rose State College in Piedmont, Oklahoma on Thursday, May 12. The Mount Ida Lions are still going strong, currently 15-5 in 1A DVII play, winning their Monday playoff game against the Hermitage Hermits at the state tournament 13-3. According to Scorebook Live Monday afternoon, the Lions will be taking on the Mt. Vernon-Enola Warhawks, Thursday at 12:30 (Times subject to change.). The game will be broadcast live on KQOR 105.3 FM.
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse