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Chamber of Commerce
National Day of Prayer
Suspects flee LEOs Stolen car abandoned in Hatfield, chase began in Pine Bluff By Jeri Pearson
Page 3
Page 4
City Invests in Police Department Photo by Jeri Pearson
Nurses Week
May 12, 2021
Page 13-15
Mena Police Chief Tommy Stueart opens the door at 403 DeQueen Street to what will be the new home of the Mena Police Department when renovations to the building are complete. See the story on page 2
Hatfield residents were alerted to a suspect attempting to evade law enforcement Saturday, May 8. Sheriff Scott Sawyer said a search for a fugitive fleeing from state police in a stolen vehicle from Pine Bluff began at 12:45 p.m. “The suspect abandoned the stolen car just north of Hatfield and fled on foot,” Sawyer said. The Sheriff ’s Office, State Police, and Game and Fish were in the area actively searching through the course of Mother’s Day weekend. Residents were asked to secure homes, out buildings and vehicles and call 911 or 394-2511 to report suspicious activity. Sawyer updated the community through social media. “We do have a preliminary identification of the female suspect. We are working with other agencies to get a positive ID. Once we do, I’ll release the name. We’ve also developed information that the suspect may have left the area in a second vehicle that she was traveling with.” Sawyer said the area continues to be patrolled and again requested anyone with information contact the authorities. For developments on this story, visit mypulsenews.com
2 News
May 12, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Photo by Jeri Pearson Mena Police Chief Tommy Stueart checks on the progress at the department’s soon-to-be home, which is steps away from the current location near the Polk County Courthouse.
Mena PD prepares for move By Jeri Pearson
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The Mena Police Department is eagerly preparing for the elbow room that awaits at its new home, located at 403 DeQueen Street, just a short walk from the department’s current location at the Polk County Courthouse complex. Proponents of the project say the new location will not only increase the functionality of the day-today activities of the department, but also be a boon to the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office and the parking issues at the Polk County Courthouse. The City of Mena purchased the former Vaughn Engineering Building for $230,461.80, paid from general operating funds. The remodel bid was awarded to T & J Construction for $146,000 to make the suitable for the Police Department accommodation, and will also be paid from general operating funds. Police Chief Tommy Stueart said the evidence room will benefit from being in a secure area with a significant in-
crease in the area available. “We are required to maintain evidence, sometimes indefinitely, and right now the situation in our evidence room is that things are being stored, and it is there, but we would really have to dig to get to some of it,” Stueart said. “This added space will allow us to securely organize and maintain evidence.” The departments new home will also provide sergeants with shared office space, a conference room for interviewing families, a secured entrance for bringing suspects in for questioning, secured parking in the rear of the building and parking for the public and on duty officers on DeQueen Street. The additional parking will result in current parking for the department’s units to be available at the courthouse, as well as the department’s current offices to be available to the sheriff ’s office. While there is no set completion or move-in date for the new facility, Stueart is hopeful the department will be at the new location by the end of the year.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 12, 2021
Radio - Print - Web Director Duo divides and conquers duties at Chamber of Commerce 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
KENA 104.1 - KQOR 105.3 MyPulseNews.com
Our Team: Ashley Smith- General Manager Jeri Pearson - Editor Tori Stockton - Production Manager John Russell - Graphic Design Trey Youngdahl- Digital Producer Curt Teasdale - Programmer/ On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Melissa Fetters - Account Executive Justin Richmond - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp and Zane Steele 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.
By Jeri Pearson
The day-to-day dynamics at the Mena Polk County Chamber of Commerce have shifted with the resignation of Pasha Watson, the former executive director of the chamber. After a hiring process, Marisa Johnson, formerly the secretary to the chamber director, has taken on a new role and Whitney Horne has been hired as the executive director of the chamber. Horne’s duties include planning Chamber events and programs, dealing directly with the Chamber membership and their benefits, and is the overall face of the Chamber. Johnson was promoted to the Executive Director of Advertising & Events. Her duties include fulfilling the Chamber’s contract with the City of Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission as their Marketing & Festival Consultant. This includes planning city events and handling their marketing. Previously the chamber had one Executive Director whose responsibilities encompassed both roles, and the second position was an Administrative Assistant. “With two Executive Directors, each ED will be able to truly focus on their respective duties,” Johnson explained. “We will still work together on all events and programs, but this restructuring will allow us to focus on the larger parts of our duties at the same time. “I feel confident that we will bring dedication and a drive to succeed to Chamber and the A&P. Whitney and I are both passionate about doing the best for our community and the businesses we represent,” Johnson continued. “We are willing to put in the work and make sure that everything is a success.” Horne echoed Johnson’s statements. “I hope that we can make a difference for our business and community. We want to see the issues and needs that arise and find a solution that benefits everyone,” she said. “Marisa and I will strive to deliver entertaining events, helpful member programs, and success-
Whitney Horne, left, and Marisa Johnson.
ful marketing to our businesses and the city.” The duo at the helm of the chamber’s endeavors said they have much to look forward to. “We’re looking forward to being a part of Mena’s growth. From helping our local businesses, to promoting the city, we want what is best for our community. We are excited to bring back our local events after a rough year of cancellations. Moving forward is our constant goal.” The board said this was an optimal time to restructure. “The Executive Board discussed the challenges of one person representing two, separate, albeit similar, organizations. The two most distinct differences being each are governed by two different and independent boards and the second in the funding. The A&P is funded through the collection of tax dollars and the Chamber is membership driven... Separate but equal directors that collaborate on events would enable us to streamline those processes and minimize any confusion within the community of who does what.” “Each of our directors bring to the table experience, enthusiasm, energy and complimentary skillsets. With the many advancements made by previous directors and the solid foundations provided by each respective board, we believe this new structure will allow us to take our events to the next level while making new strides in growing and supporting our community.”
News 3
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4 Community
May 12, 2021
National Day of Prayer Observed By Jeri Pearson Residents of Polk County gathered on the courthouse lawn Thursday to join together in prayer for our community and our nation. The National Day of Prayer exists to mobilize unified public prayer for America. The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. The National Day of Prayer Task Force is a privately funded organization whose purpose is to encourage participation on the National Day of
Prayer. It exists to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, to create appropriate materials, and to mobilize the Christian community to intercede for America’s leaders and its families. The Task Force represents a Judeo-Christian expression of the national observance, based on an understanding that this country was birthed in prayer and in reverence for the God of the Bible. First Call of Prayer in 1775 Because of the faith of many of the founding fathers, public prayer and national days of prayer have a long-standing and significant history in American tradition. The Supreme Court affirmed the right of state legislatures to open their sessions with prayer in Marsh vs.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
“Fasting and prayer are religious exercises; the enjoining them an act of discipline. Every religious society has a right to determine for itself the time Chambers (1983). for these exercises, and the objects The National Day proper for them, according to their of Prayer is said to be own particular tenets; and right can vital part of the nation’s heritage. Since never be safer than in their hands, the first call to prayer where the Constitution has dein 1775, when the Conposited it.” tinental Congress asked Photo by Trey Youngdahl
—Thomas Jefferson, 1808 the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a nation, the call to prayer has continued through our history, including President Lincoln’s proclamation of a day of “humiliation, fasting, and significance for the nation as it enables citizens to recall and to teach the way prayer” in 1863. In 1952, a joint resolution by Con- in which some founding fathers sought gress, signed by President Truman, de- the wisdom of God when faced with clared an annual national day of prayer. critical decisions. It stands as a call for In 1988, the law was amended and people of faith to humbly come before signed by President Reagan, perma- God, seeking His guidance for leaders nently setting the day as the first Thurs- and His grace upon people. The unanday of every May. Each year, the presi- imous passage of the bill establishing dent signs a proclamation, encouraging the National Day of Prayer as an annual all Americans to pray on this day. Last event, signifies that prayer is as importyear, all 50 state governors plus the gov- ant to the nation today as it was in the ernors of several U.S. territories signed beginning. Like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this similar proclamations. day has become a national observance placed on all Hallmark calendars and Significance of the National Day observed annually across the nation of Prayer The National Day of Prayer has great See PRAYER page 6
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
State News 5
May 12, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives
From when you can drive in the award grants for training in autoleft lane to regulating autonomous motive repair and technology. cars, the 93rd General Assembly Act 160-This bill states that if a made several changes to laws redriver who operates a commercial garding our roadways. motor vehicle is convicted of using This week, we want to update you the commercial motor vehicle in on these upcoming changes. the commission of a felony involvAct 1090 states a vehicle shall not ing human trafficking, the driver be driven upon the left lane of a shall be disqualified from opermultilane highway, except as fol- John Maddox ating a commercial motor vehicle lows: for life. (1) When overtaking and passing anothAct 376-This bill amends the additional er vehicle proceeding in the same direction fees required to register a hybrid vehicle. under the rules governing that movement. The new fees for hybrid vehicles will be re(2) When all other lanes for traveling duced from $100 to $50 starting January 1, in the same direction are closed to traffic 2022. Fees for electric vehicles will be $200, while under construction or repair. and the fees for a plug-in hybrid elective ve(3) When all other lanes for traveling in hicle will be $100. the same direction are in disrepair or are in Act 1067-This bill states that a person an otherwise unsafe condition. operating a bicycle upon a crosswalk shall (4) When a vehicle is preparing to exit the yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and multilane highway on the left. give an audible signal before overtaking Act 264 amends the law concerning the and passing a pedestrian. unlawful passing of a school bus. It states Act 926-This bill allows the operation of a drivers must come to a complete stop no personal delivery device in pedestrian areas less than 30 feet from the bus when it stops and certain streets. to load or unload passengers. This 30 feet Act 908-This bill would give Arkansans perimeter would apply to public roads, pri- up to 24 months to take the driving portion vate or public property open to the general of a driver’s test after passing the written public, and any driveway or parking lot be- portion of the exam. Currently, Arkansans longing to a public school. are only given 12 months before they have Act 1061 states that a person commits the to re-take the written exam. crime of felony racing on a public highway Act 913-This bill exempts domestic vioif he or she is drag racing on a public high- lence victims from having their residential way and impedes or stops the flow of traf- address disclosed on a driver’s license. fic or is part of a gathering of 10 or more Act 1093-This bill exempts certain types individuals engaging in the same behavior. of vehicles such as golf carts and low-speed Felony racing on a public highway is a Class vehicles from the additional fee for electric D felony. and hybrid cars. Act 558 makes leaving the scene of an acAct 328-This bill exempts those with specident with injuries a Class D felony. How- cial military and veteran license plates from ever, if there are serious physical injuries or paying a fee for electric and hybrid cars. death, the offender would be charged with Act 538-This bill creates an exception a Class B felony. allowing certain devices such as a trailer Act 619 establishes parameters with the hitch, wheelchair lift, or bicycle rack to obArkansas Department of Transportation scure a license plate. for operating autonomous vehicles. Act 871-This bill increases the maximum Other transportation legislation passed height of a vehicle authorized to operate on this year include the following: a state highway from 13’6” to 14’. Act 504-This removes licensing requireAct 754-This bill requires drivers to stop ments for a motor vehicle salesperson and at railroad tracks for any on-track equipa recreational vehicle salesperson. This bill ment as they would stop for a train. also creates the Automotive Technologist Act 784-This bill states the maximum fine Education Grant Program. The Division of that can be imposed for a seat belt violation Career and Technical Education may then is $45.
From the
State Senate
In next year’s statewide ernment chooses the general election in Noleast restrictive method vember, voters will decide of achieving that compelwhether or not the three ling interest. amendments are written SJR 14 states that “Govinto the state Constitution. ernments should not Two of the proposed burden religious exeramendments originated in cise without compelling the Senate; the third orig- Larry Teague justification,” and that in inated in the House of Repa 1990 ruling “the Unitresentatives. ed States Supreme Court virtually Senate Joint Resolution 10, if ap- eliminated the requirement that proved by voters next year, would the government justify burdens on allow the General Assembly to call religious exercise imposed by laws itself into session in the interim be- neutral toward religion.” tween regular sessions. Currently, The 1990 case was out of Orethe legislature meets every year in gon, called “Employment Division regular session. After regular ses- v. Smith.” The two plaintiffs were sions have adjourned, the legisla- members of a Native American ture does not convene again until church and also worked at a prithe regular session of the following vate drug rehabilitation facility. year. They were fired for ingesting peyIn the interim between regular ote, a hallucinogenic drug, during sessions, the only time the legisla- a church ceremony. ture convenes is when the goverThe plaintiffs were denied unemnor calls a special session. ployment benefits and they sued, SJR 10 would allow legislators arguing that the government had to call themselves into special ses- infringed on their First Amendsion without a call by the governor. ment rights to freely exercise reliIt could happen by two possible gion. methods. The President Pro Tem The majority opinion upheld the of the Senate and the Speaker of state government of Oregon and the House could issue a joint proc- was delivered by Justice Antonin lamation. Or, a proclamation could Scalia. be issued by legislators, if twoThe third proposed amendment thirds of each body signed it. is in House Joint Resolution 1005. Similar to the calls for a special If approved by voters, it would resession that are issued by the gov- quire a 60 percent majority for apernor, the legislative proclamation proval of future proposed constituwould have to list the items that tional amendments. can be considered. SJR 10 would In Arkansas, proposed amendnot affect the governor’s power to ments are placed on the ballot in call a special session. two ways. The legislature can refer SJR 14 is the second measure that them, such as it did with SJR 10, originated in the Senate. Its title is SJR 14 and HJR 1005. “The Arkansas Religious Freedom Also, citizens can place proAmendment.” posed amendments on the ballot It would provide that the gov- by gathering on petitions enough ernment shall not burden a per- signatures of registered voters. The son’s freedom of religion, except minimum number of valid signaunder limited circumstances when tures is 10 percent of the number there is a compelling government of votes cast in the prior election interest in doing so, and the gov- for governor.
6 Obituaries
THE POLK COUNTY
May 12, 2021
Elizabeth Ann Cox
Mrs. Elizabeth Ann (Curry) Cox, age 84, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, May 8, 2021 in Mena. She was born on April, 4, 1937 in Mena to the late Sydney Curry and Inez (Egger) Curry. Elizabeth was united in marriage to Archie Cox. She enjoyed feeding and watching her birds, planting flowers, and working puzzle books. Most of all she loved spending time with her family. She will be dearly missed. She is survived by her son, Terry Cox and wife Paula of Mena; daughters Kathy Curry of Colorado Springs, CO, and Kelly Bunyard and husband Tommy of Mena; grandchildren, Shakira Holder of Rock Hill, SC, Kolten Summit of Mena, Kassidy Summit of Mena, and Derek Cox and wife Michelle of Fayetville, AR; sister, Jane Lee, of Mena; and several nieces, nephews, and friends. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her brother, Wayne Curry. A graveside service for Elizabeth will be held 10:00 am Friday, May 14, 2021 at Rock Springs Cemetery in Posey Hollow with Bro. Mark Lyle officiating. General visitation will be held at the funeral home. Services are under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home.
Earl Berkey
Earl Berkey, age 93, of Denton, Texas died on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Denton, Texas. He was born on Monday, May 30, 1927 to Edward and Mary Shenk Berkey in Oronogo, Missouri. Earl was a loving father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather, great great grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Elvera Berkey; and two sons, Glen Berkey and Lester Berkey. Earl is survived by his son, Paul Berkey of Lake Charles, Louisiana; three daughters, Roberta Dockery of Denton, Texas, Cheryl Nipper, and Mary Jane Racca of Lake Charles, Louisiana; fifteen grandkids, nineteen great grandkids, four great-great grandkids, several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 7, 2021 at 2:00 PM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Grant Geiger officiating. Interment will follow at the Cherry Hill Cemetery under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh. com
Dorothy Hulliberger
Dorothy Hulliberger, 87, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, May 5 th , 2021, at her home with her loving family at her side. She was born March 8 th , 1934 in Lowell, Massachusetts, to Manuel M and Mary (Travers) Garcia. She is preceded in death by both her parents, her husband of 36 years; George Dan Hulliberger, 2 sisters and 1 brother. Dorothy is survived by her daughter; Suzie Ward, 1 grandson; Josh Hulliberger, 2 great- grandchildren; Emma and Liam Hulliberger all of Mena, Arkansas, 1 sister; Nancy Hamilton of Mount Ida,
PRAYER
Pulse
3 brothers; Edward Garcia of Jackpot, Nevada, Ronnie Garcia and Steve Garcia both of California, along with nu- continued from page 4 merous nieces, nephews, other family and in Washington, D.C. Every year, loand friends. cal, state, and federal observances were There will be a memorial service to be held from sunrise in Maine to sunset announced at later date. in Hawaii, uniting Americans from all Arrangements were made under the socio-economic, political and ethnic direction of Thornton Funeral Home of backgrounds in prayer for our nation. Mount Ida, AR. Guest register at thorn- It is estimated that over two million tonfh.com people attended more than 30,000 observances – organized by approximateEmily ly 40,000 volunteers. At state capitols, county court houses, on the steps of Leann city halls, and in schools, businesses, Terrell churches and homes, people stopped their activities and gathered for prayer.
Smith
Emily Leann Terrell Smith, age 30, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, May 5, 2021 in Mena. She was born July 25, 1990 in Little Rock, Arkansas to John Terrell and Vanessa Eileen Guidry. She was married to Carl Allen Odell Smith and was a homemaker and a proud trucker’s wife. She loved to travel, crochet and had a love of frogs and coffee, but her true love was to spend time with her family and to serve our Lord. She was a wonderful and loving wife, daughter, mother, sister, and a friend to all she knew. She is survived by her father, John Terrell and wife Brandy, her mother, Vanessa Guidry and husband Yancy, her husband, Carl Smith, her son, McClaine Smith, her daughter, Hensleigh Smith, brothers, Chad Terrell, Mason Terrell, CJ Chandler, and Ashton Chandler, sisters Jennifer Warden, Ava Terrell and Nova Guidry and her nephew and nieces, Brody Warden, Claudia Warden and Payton Terrell. She was preceded in death by her children, Aiden, Mitzi and Ean and by her grandparents, Tommy and Marie Terrell and Charlie Entrekin. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 8, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at the Beasley Wood Chapel. Visitation will be Friday evening, May 7 th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Historical Summary 1775 – The first Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer 1863 – Abraham Lincoln called for such a day. 1952 – Congress established NDP as an annual event by a joint resolution, signed into law by President Truman (82-324) 1988 – The law was amended and signed by President Reagan, designating the NDP as the first Thursday in May (100-307). Fun Facts There have been 146 national calls to prayer, humiliation, fasting and thanksgiving by the President of the United States (1789 – 2017). There have been 69 Presidential Proclamations for a National Day of Prayer (1952 – 2017). Gerald R. Ford (1976), George H. Bush (1989 – 91), Barack H. Obama (2012), and Donald J. Trump (2017) are the only U.S. Presidents to sign multiple National Day of Prayer Proclamations in the same year. Every President since 1952 has signed a National Day of Prayer proclamation. 35 of the 45 U.S. Presidents have signed proclamations for National Prayer. Three of the Presidents who did not sign a proclamation died while serving in office. Two Presidents, not included in the count—William Howard Taft and Warren Gamaliel Harding, signed proclamations for Thanksgiving and Prayer. Records indicate there have been 1,526 state and federal calls for national prayer since 1775 and counting.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Faith 7
May 12, 2021
An Arkie’s Faith: The Battle of Franklin
By Richie Lawry
It was 4:30 In the morning when Major General Schofield and Brigadier General Cox rode into the outskirts of Franklin, Tennessee, and commandeered the house belonging to Fountain Branch Carter. Cox’s division was the vanguard of the Federal army under General Schofield’s command. The Federal army had been marching all night after quietly slipping away from the Confederate army in Spring Hill. The day before, Confederates seemed to have the upper hand. By 4:30 P.M., they had almost ten thousand troops in Spring Hill with another ten thousand two miles away. The Federal army of around seven thousand men was pinned down, with the nearest reinforcements two hours away. At sundown, the situation seemed grim to the Federal defenders behind their barricades. There was confusion in the Confederate ranks as battle plans changed. Confusion gave way to frustration as night fell. The Confederates started fires, cooked supper, and bedded down for the night. Many of them were only two hundred yards from the main road north out of Spring Hill. Under cover of darkness, the Federal army was able to make its way past the Confederate positions. After marching all night, they made it to Franklin. General Schofield hoped that the pontoon bridge he had requested from Nashville would be at the Harpeth River. Unfortunately, the pontoon was not there yet, so the Federal army was trapped between the river and the Confederates. Around the southern edge of Franklin, there were old entrenchments dug by Federal forces a year earlier. General Cox put his troops in the old defenses and ordered them to improve the breastworks. The defenses passed through the property of Fountain Carter. By that afternoon, most of the Federal army was entrenched in a line from riverbank to riverbank of a loop in the river, hoping
to retreat across the Harpeth River when it became possible. The history came to life for me as we toured the Carter House in Franklin. Our tour guide was able to help us understand the events of that fateful day. Her straightforward, concise storytelling brought the day’s happenings into focus and helped us visualize the battle. As I stood in the exact location, I could imagine the Federal soldiers in their breastworks watching as the Confederates appeared in the open fields to the south around 3:30 in the afternoon. From their vantage point two miles away, it looked like a grand military review, but the Federal soldiers were somber as they watched thousands of Confederate soldiers fall into formation. Federal division commander, Brigadier General George D. Wagner ordered his men to take their position along an elevation about half a mile from the main Federal works. His three thousand men were between the Federal line and the amassing Confederate army. Col. Emerson Opdycke led a brigade in George Wagner’s division. When General Wagner ordered Opdycke to join his fellow brigade commanders, he saw the folly of such a position and was in no mood to follow Wagner’s commands. The position was isolated, and already the Federals could see swarms of Confederates appearing on the next ridge. An attack was imminent, and there was no chance for Wagner’s small force to stop the assault. Instead, Opdycke deployed his brigade about two hundred yards behind the Carter House. Wagner’s decision to move into the field between the two armies was a mis-
take. The Confederate line overwhelmed Wagner’s men. The Federal defenders stampeded back towards the main line after firing a single volley. The Confederates followed in close pursuit, using their Federal foes as human shields. Afraid of hitting their comrades, the riflemen on the Federal main line held their fire as they watched the intermingled crowd surge towards them. As a result, the last half-mile of the Confederate advance was largely uncontested, allowing the charge to hit the main line with full force. As the Confederates poured into the breach in the Federal line, Emerson Opdycke’s brigade, instead of being in retreat with Wagner’s other men, was in reserve, about 200 yards north of the Carter House. Opdycke quickly ordered his brigade forward to the breastworks. Opdycke’s counterattack helped seal the breach. Thousands of men surge into a deadly vortex of combat with shovels, bayonets, sabers, and pistols. Hand-to-hand fighting around the Carter House was furious and desperate. Firing continued around the Carter house and gardens for hours. Each side fired through or over the top of the parapets at close range, trying to dislodge the other. After hours of fighting, the call came for the Confederates to fall back. Our group listens quietly as the tour guide tries to help us understand the extreme violence and carnage that happened that fateful November day in 1864. There were so many casualties in the area around the Carter House that men died standing up because there were so many bodies that they couldn’t fall. She showed us the farm office, a small clapboard building that is full of
bullet holes. The house and outbuildings have hundreds of bullet holes still showing. Of 15,000 Union troops engaged, some 200 died, and more than 2,000 were wounded. The Confederates had 23,000 men at Franklin; around 1,750 died, and 5,500 were injured or captured. Private Sam Watkins of the 1st Tennessee called it “the blackest page in the history of the war.” When recounting the battle, one soldier said, “It was as if the devil had full possession of the earth.” As I stood on the battlefield in Franklin and contemplated the carnage that happened there, I thought about another great battle. Revelation chapter 12 presents what I feel is a good way for a Christian to view history. It describes a great spiritual war raging behind the scenes. The apostle John saw a vision of war in heaven. He saw the dragon defeated and hurled down to earth. “Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world—was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.” Revelation 12:7-9 (NLT) Gentle Reader, the book of Revelation presents a vivid image of reality. It is the spiritual reality behind the wars that rage around us. Just like Satan whispers temptations in our ears, he also creates dissension among countries and urges them to fight. I love studying history, and history reveals an unending cavalcade of war and struggle. But God has promised that there will come a time when there will be no more war. “The Lord will mediate between nations and will settle international disputes. They will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer fight against nation, nor train for war anymore.” Isaiah 2:4 (NLT) I’m longing for that day.
Joke of the Week: I told my wife that she should embrace her mistakes. She gave me a hug.
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THE POLK COUNTY
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May 12, 2021
You May See This As FIRE & BRIMSTONE I see it as an answer to salvation Three important Salvation Issues not taught in Church (1) The 4th Commandment: Is a salvation issue. Matthew 22:36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Matthew 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord your God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. Matthew 22:38 This is the first and great commandment <<Jesus said this>> Exodus 20:11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day: Therefore God blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it. Exodus 31:12 And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, Exodus 31:13 “Speak also to the children of Israel, saying : ‘Surely My Sabbaths you shall keep, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am the Lord who sanctifies you. (Sanctify/set apart for His purpose) Exodus 31:14 Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. How wonderful is His grace. Exodus 31:15 ‘Work shall be done for six days, but the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.’ How wonderful, we now have his grace- and enough time to change! Exodus 31:16 ‘Therefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations as a perpetual covenant. (perpetual security) Constantine changed the true Sabbath (‘Friday sundown to Saturday sundown’) to Sunday, in 321 AD for the Catholic Church. Google it to confirm. When we keep the true Sabbath, we are sanctified by His covenant. John 14:15 if ye love me, keep my commandments. <<Jesus said this>> The fourth commandment is the Sabbath (Friday sundown to Saturday sundown) Will you begin giving your allegiance to God on HIS Holy day by keeping ‘Friday sundown to Saturday sundown.’ Or Will you continue to give your allegiance to the pope on his rest day by keeping Sunday as your day of worship? Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? <== take your time & meditate on this verse! Who are you going to be obedient to; the pope; or God who created you? Revelations 22:14 Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. <= Wonderful Matthew 19:17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. 1 John 2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. You can change, you still have time, you can do it! Isaiah 58:13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honorable; and shalt honor him, not doing thine own ways,nor finding thine own pleasure nor speaking thine own words: Isaiah 58:14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. Jacob had an abundance of
everything he needed. Exodus 31:17 ‘It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days God made the heavens and the earth and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.’ From Scotland to England to America <= Founded by many Israelites. (2) Perfection; Is a salvation issue. Jesus said these next 5 verses Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. Luke 6:40 The disciple is not above his master, but everyone who is perfect shall be like his master. John 17:23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast send me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Revelation 3:2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found they works perfect before God. Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. Revelation 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. This verse should concern everyone. 2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of Jesus. 2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the Father of love and peace shall be with you. Ephesians 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Jesus: Colossians 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Jesus, salutes you, always striving for you in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. James 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, not lacking in anything. We must not allow ourselves to be found wanting! James 3:2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offered not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. This is how you establish perfection. Hebrew 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith towards God. These are 11 of over 40 scriptures telling us, we must become perfect. (3) Grace; Is a salvation issue, if you use it wrong, it will not work (Hebrew 10:26) An abundance of grace is needed to achieve PERFECTION. When grace is not used the way it was meant to be used, which is asking for grace for the same thing or things, day after day or week after week, or every month you are not going to accomplish perfection because that appears not to be the goal. Improper use of grace restricts us from achieving perfection (to overcome) Hebrew 10:26 For if we sin willfully, after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains any other sacrifice for sins. (His grace doesn’t cover willful sin/sin done on purpose) If you occasionally use Grace as a crutch and are not having progressively longer periods of perfection as you progress towards a permanent life of perfection, you
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had better acknowledge that you need to ask the ‘Holy Spirit’ what you must do to allow Him more control over your life and then do as He says. To be able to reach perfection, you must want it with all your heart and soul. We should study scripture with others & especially by ourselves, and often. You and the ‘Holy Spirit’ must do this together, the ‘Holy Spirit’ is willing every moment to help, but, you must have that burning desire, no matter what it takes, you must realize how important your salvation is, it is priceless, you must realize that! What is more important? Your own personal hobbies, television, or, studying scripture with the ‘Holy Spirit’ to find out what He requires of you for your salvation? We are able to accomplish Gods requirements, but, it is up to us to decide if we will devote the time necessary and give up some of the things we love. When we decide we will do whatever it takes, the ‘Holy Spirit’ will make sure we make it, but we must make that decision (whatever it takes!) John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of Truth, is come, He will guide into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself: but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and He will shew you things to come. Only the ‘Holy Spirit’ knows what you need! Let the ‘Holy Spirit’ be your personal Tutor, ask Him to guide your search! These next Four verses will describe how difficult your commitment may be to overcome, lets pray your desire is to overcome and sit down with Jesus on His throne! (1) Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen. (2) Philippians 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (3) Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Commit today to rearrange your time for study! (4) 2 Esdras 9:14 I answered, I repeat what I have said again and again: the lost outnumbered the saved as a wave exceeds a drop of water. (The Apocrypha) Jesus invitation to those who overcome Revelation 3:21 To him who overcomes, I will grant to sit down with me on my throne, as I myself have overcome and have taken my seat with my Father on his throne. What Jesus has just proclaimed is profound Those who become perfect like Jesus will rule with Him through the thousand years (the Millennium) When we use discernment about what Jesus says about HIS bride, (you and I), we must be without spot or wrinkle, (Ephesians 5:27) which means, we must overcome all salvation issues, to do that, studying scripture is vitally important, so we know where we come up short, then we know what we must overcome! Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Flushing announced, water pressure may be affected
Mena Water Utilities will again be conducting our bi-annual water main flushing program during the week of May 17 through May 21, 2021. Mena Water has scheduled the lines on the south side of Highway 71 including the Nunley and Board Camp areas for flushing on Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday and Thursday, the lines on the north side of Highway 71 are scheduled to be flushed. Flushing is done as a part of a scheduled preventative maintenance program to help maintain good water quality and to improve the water flow in the water distribution system. As Mena Water flushes your area, you may experience a temporary reduction in water pressure. You may also see some color and/or sand in your water, or you may notice a slight change in the taste and odor of your You are personally accountable for discovering all salvation issues, you mustn’t leave water. These conditions are normal during flushing activities, and only your salvation to anyone, this is your eternity, not theirs. temporary. If you should experience any of these changes, or if you see some cloudiness or rust color in your water, Mena Water recommends that James 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, you refrain from washing light colored laundry; likewise, we recommend wanting nothing. We must not allow ourselves to be fount wanting. that you flush the pipes of your home or business. Flushing of your home If you go to church, you must also discover your salvation issues by doing your own or business's pipes is accomplished by opening your front outside hose bib bible study (or with others) and pray the Holy Spirit controls it. until it runs clear and has no noticeable taste or odor. Mena Water regrets any inconvenience the flushing may cause you. If WILL YOU BE PART OF THE END TIME REVIVAL? you have any questions or if you experience any persistent water quality problems as a result of this maintenance program please call Mena Water King James Bible, PO Box 645 PAID ADVERTISEMENT Utilities at 479-394-2761.
10 History
May 12, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Reflections from Faith and History: Clara Barton and the American Red Cross
By Jeff Olson
Over the course of her life as a nation, America has seen her share of disasters, from those of nature to those man-made. From tornados to floods to droughts to hurricanes to fires and beyond, our nation has experienced the gamut. Even here in our home town and county we've had our share, especially within the past 30 years including two tornados, in 1993 and 2009. Among what many of these events had in common and what helped bring many people through was the humanitarian contributions of the American Red Cross. This week we highlight this venerable American Institution and its founder. Clarissa Harlowe (Clara) Barton was born in North Oxford, Massachusetts on December 25, 1821. While the 200th anniversary of her birth is later this year, I wish to take this time and celebrate her life in conjunction with her founding of the American Red Cross. Clara Barton began her career as a teacher and served as the first female clerk of the U.S. Patent Office. Eventually, her humanitarian nature led her into the field of health. During the Civil War, she pleaded with Union generals to let her go to the front lines to attend to the wounded. She was told that "a battlefield is no place for a woman." However, she refused to give up and her persistence eventually got her to the battlefield where she brought food and supplies to “her boys”on both
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sides - caring for them, often as bullets passed by and overhead. She also provided personal support in hopes of keeping their spirits up, writing letters for them, reading letters to them, listening to their problems and praying with them. At the Battle of Antietam, a bullet tore through the sleeve of her dress and killed the wounded soldier she was attending. She wrote: “A ball had passed between my body and the right arm which supported him, cutting through the sleeve and passing through his chest from shoulder to shoulder. There was no more to be done for him and I left him to his rest. I have never mended that hole in my sleeve.” Clara Barton was present at some of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. Such was her presence and dedication that the soldiers started calling her the "Angel of the Battlefield." In a letter Clara Barton wrote to her cousin in the midst of the war, she reveals much of the depth of her faith in Christ as well as her love and compassion for those she served in His name. "My dear Cousin Vira: Five minutes time with you; and God only knows what those five minutes might be worth to the many- doomed thousands sleeping around me. It is the night before a battle. The enemy, Fredericksburg, and its mighty entrenchments lie before us, the river between - at tomorrow's dawn our troops will assay to cross, and the guns of the enemy will sweep those frail bridges at every breath. The moon is shining through the soft haze with brightness almost prophetic. For the last half hour I have stood alone in the awful stillness of its glimmering light gazing upon the strange sad scene around me striving to say, 'Thy will Oh God be done.' The camp fires blaze with unwanted brightness, the sentry's tread is still but quick -- the acres of little shelter tents are dark and still as death, no wonder for us as I gazed sorrowfully upon them. I thought I could almost hear the slow flap of the grim messenger's wings, as one by one he sought and selected his
victims for the morning sacrifice. Sleep weary one, sleep and rest for tomorrow's toil. Oh! Sleep and visit in dreams once more the loved ones nestling at home. They may yet live to dream of you, cold lifeless and bloody, but this dream, soldier, is thy last, paint it brightly, dream it well. Oh northern mothers, wives and sisters, all unconscious of the hour, would to Heaven that I could bear for you the concentrated woe which is so soon to follow, would that Christ would teach my soul a prayer that would plead to the Father for grace sufficient for you. God pity and strengthen you every one. Mine are not the only waking hours, the light yet burns brightly in our kind hearted General's tent where he pens what may be a last farewell to his wife and children and thinks sadly of his fated men. Already the roll of the moving artillery is sounded in my ears. The battle draws near and I must catch one hour's sleep for tomorrow's labor. Good night, dear cousin, and heaven grant you strength for your more peaceful and less terrible, but not less weary days than mine. Yours in love, Clara." In 1864, Barton was appointed superintendent of nurses for the Army of the James. After the war she formed a bureau to search for missing men and helped mark the graves of over 12,000 Union soldiers who died at the Andersonville Prison in Georgia. In 1869, while on a trip to Switzerland to improve her health, she learned about the recently organized International Red Cross and helped to establish military hospitals and care for soldiers in the Franco-Prussian War. Upon returning home she campaigned for an American Red Cross and for ratification of the Geneva Convention to protect the war injured. It was ratified in 1882. Clara Barton's tireless efforts were rewarded when one hundred forty years ago this week, May 21, 1881, the American Red Cross became a reality. As Barton expressed: "An institution or reform movement that is not selfish, must origi-
nate in the recognition of some evil that is adding to the sum of human suffering, or diminishing the sum of happiness. I may be compelled to face danger, but never fear it, and while our soldiers can stand and fight, I can stand and feed and nurse them. I am well and strong and young - young enough to go to the front. If I cannot be a soldier, I'll help soldiers." For the next 20 years she remained on the scene, still delivering relief in times of natural disasters. In 1898, at the age of 77, Barton obtained permission to travel to Cuba to ease the suffering of Cuban civilians against the Spanish Reconcentration. Even into her eighties she was still active through health-related work and giving lectures. Clara Barton served as president of the American Red Cross from 1882 to 1904 when she resigned at age 83. The Red Cross received its first Congressional Charter in 1900 and its second in 1905. A more recent version of the charter was adopted in 2007 and essentially restates the traditional purpose of the Red Cross. The American Red Cross still touches many lives, often in ordinary and routine ways outside of emergency situations. How many of us have taken a health and/or safety class through the Red Cross? How many of us have ever given blood or received donated blood? The Red Cross developed the first nationwide civilian blood program in the 1940s and still provides more than 40% of the blood products in our country. Clara Barton never married or had any children. In a very real sense, her family was the countless lives she poured herself into so selflessly. On April 12, 1912 America and the world lost a great lady, but what a life of service and valor she lived! It is perhaps best described in her own words. "The door that nobody else will go in at, seems always to swing open widely for me." The Clara Barton National Historic Site in Glen Echo, Maryland was established in 1974 to honor the life of Clara Barton and educate visitors about her life and legacy.
THE POLK COUNTY
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Outdoors 11
May 12, 2021
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL
Useful Applications of Cattails, nicknamed The Water Glizzy By Trey Youngdahl Foreword by Steven E Stillwell
Time flies when you’re staying busy, and the best is yet to come. Trey and I have been working together on some important projects, including our podcast shows, and we’ve discussed numerous topics ranging from survival schools, to wild edibles. During one of these conversations he mentioned the venerable cattail, and all of its benefits. I encouraged him to write an article for our reading audience, and the following information is a compilation of his research and personal experiences with this interesting plant. THANK YOU TREY FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION. THE WATER GLIZZY: When I tell you that cattails are edible, your mind probably thinks about the highly compressed group of seeds at the top of the stalk in the shape of a corndog, but what I’m referring to is actually the stalk, and roots of the plant. Cattails are deemed ‘The Supermarket of the Swamp’, and they’re an incredible source of food. They grow in abundance, and you can easily find them in, and around water sources. Even small patches of moist soil can grow cattails. Also, because of their abundance, you needn’t worry about over-picking, which is a concern
for conscientious people who harvest wild edibles. Not only are they good for food, they also have other important applications! As well as edible and medicinal applications, they can also serve a more mechanical purpose. Some survivalists carry around a fiber comb to process tinder for fire-making. This comb can be used on the leaves of the cattail, and the fibers can be twisted into cordage. There are, of course, some things to be wary of when harvesting a cattail. Young cattails could accidently be confused with Iris, which is toxic for humans to ingest. However, the flower head of mature cattail is completely unique with its immediately recognizable ‘HOTDOG’ seed cluster shape. Another thing to consider before foraging for cattails is the condition of the water source that you harvest from. If it is stagnant or polluted, you shouldn’t risk eating it. Cattails naturally clean whatever water source they are growing in by absorbing contaminants in the water. Because of this, cattails growing in ditches or polluted areas should be avoided, as they could make you sick if eaten. THIS IS HOW TO PROCESS THE STALKS: Cattails can be harvested from spring to fall, but the roots can be harvested year round. The roots are valuable because they have a high concentration of starch. Picking them is as easy as pulling them up from the ground. Grab the stalk near the base and gently yank upward. Because they grow on the bank near the shore, they should come up with little effort, and
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the roots should come up with the stalk. To begin processing, start by cutting the roots from the base of the stalk. Although the fibers are wet, a nice sharp knife will be ideal for this, as well as
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most situations. Then, separate the leaves from the main stalk in the center. They should peel off relatively easily. As you peel the leaves back, you will see
See BUSHCRAFT page 12
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12 Humor
May 12, 2021
BUSHCRAFT continued from page 11 some slimy-sap. This liquid has incredible value! It is a natural antiseptic for wounds, and it works like Neosporin. You can treat cuts and scrapes with it, which are all too common in the wilderness. Keeping your wounds clean and infection-free is a wise thing to do when you’re miles away from civilization. Furthermore, this sap works as an analgesic, meaning it helps relieve pain and inflammation! This is great for aliments such as sunburns, toothaches, as well as bug-bites and minor abrasions. It is a good idea to keep a jar, or some kind of container to save the cattail jelly for those situations. After the leaves are peeled from the stalk, cut approximately four inches up from the bottom of the plant, and sever the roots. Generally, as long as what you’re harvesting is white, it is fit for consumption. If you look at it from the bottom, you’ll see that the outer layer is much too fibrous to consume, as opposed to the more uniform, tender center. To get to the core, you can either
pull the fibrous layers off, or use your knife to cut through it to save time. Be careful not to cut yourself, because the sap can make your hands slippery, and this increases the risk of injury. Once you get to the core, you can either cook them, or eat them raw in the field (It’s highly recommended that you wash the edible parts before eating.) Cattails are an easy and efficient way to get food without expending a lot of time and energy. Coming across cattails is perfect for any survival situation. Finding water is also crucial to your survival, and in a stressful situation, when you find it, you might discover an overlooked source of food and medicine! ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BUSHCRAFTING? We invite you to listen to our Podcast, The Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival Show. You can also find us on Facebook, so join our page TODAY. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.
The
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was a huge success and we were humbled by all of your kind words and generosity. Our charitable donations depend on the support of our community.
Thank You! Mark your calendars, we will be having another one on June 11.
Knights of Columbus Hall 204 8th Street, Mena, AR 479-394-7427
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My Pulse Hogspore News: Demolition Derby Returns to Winslow’s Holler By Clet Litter from the Ozarks Folks in Hogspore made it through Mother’s Day with no damages, cept for some women who felt neglected, but kept it to themselves cause they’re training to become future unwelcome mothers-in-law. Messing up on Mother’s Day is like landing on a hotel in Monopoly; the rent due is Guilt, Humility, and Shame. Mumford Pickens has the inside story on Robin Hood, who stole from the rich and give to the poor. Mumford says, “First off, if that was his whole job, he musta set aside some loot. Robin needed to feed his merry band who weren’t too merry if they was starving. He also had that high-maintenance princess girlfriend to please. It takes more than a well-fitting set of tights, a sharp sword, and a belt buckle that swashes to keep a princess happy. Then comes the archery expenses and the constant replacing of stout fighting staffs for Little John, plus the twoweek winter getaways with Friar Tuck. When you steal from the rich and give to the poor, it keeps you right busy. When the poor get some money, then you have to take it back from them. It’s good that we don’t do that anymore.” The second annual Winslow’s Holler Figure 8 Demolition Derby with Old School Buses runs this weekend. You can find the track in Duncan Winslow’s fallow north 40 acres. There’s a slight change in the hay condition for the hayride. Have your kids wear waterproof clothes or bathing suits, due to the hay turning to compost early, what with the rain these past weeks. Duncan’s making lemonade out of lemons by having a cash prize for the biggest worm found in the compost by the youngsters. I know it sounds like lemonade is gonna be there, but that ain’t what lemons into lemonade means. It kinda does, but in this case, it don’t mean that at all. If you wanna sip lemonade, then you'd better bring it yourself. I’m becoming sorta mad that you’re not getting this. After what happened last year, there ain’t gonna be any children in the Figure 8 Demolition Derby with Old School Buses infield without sober parents. That don’t mean that if the parents are sober, then the kids can be drunk. It also don’t mean that un-sober parents can go into the infield if they don’t carry in their youngins. I’m begging now; don’t get me started again. Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com.
Nurse Appreciation 13
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Inspiring Hope through Healing National Hospital and Nurse Week is an opportunity to highlight our hospitals, health systems and healthcare workers and the innovative ways they are supporting the needs of their community members, especially during this pandemic.
You True Thank Heroes Teach! Healthcare Her es
Save 1 life, you’re a hero. Save 100 lives, you’re a nurse. 479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR
e r a c h t Heal o r kers Pulse W Thank You,
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Hershel Bell
Executive Broker
479-243-5613
hbell.hollysprings@gmail.com
Your commitment to caring for our community is immeasurable!
~ THE POLK COUNTY
479.2439600 1168 HIGHWAY 71 S. MENA, ARKANSAS
14 Nurse Appreciation
THE POLK COUNTY
National Nurse Week Observed
May 6 is National Nurses Day and the beginning of National Nurses Week! Nurses are indispensable to the medical profession, and help ensure that patients receive the highest possible quality of medical care. National Nurses Day and National Nurses Week put the hard-working men and women of the nursing profession in the spotlight. Be sure to show your thanks and appreciation to the nurses
in your life! Here are a few quick facts about the nursing profession and National Nurses Week. In 1982, president Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation recognizing May 6th as “National Recognition Day for Nurses”. Every year, National Nurses Week starts on National Nurses Day – May 6th – and ends May 12, Florence
When this does not heal you,
be thankful for Healthcare Workers!
Beasley-Wood Funeral Home
Caring for your Family Over 80 Years 611 Janssen Ave., Mena beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
479-394-1310
2021 is the year of the health care worker.
Let’s Hear it for the Team!
Nightingale’s birthday. Florence Nightingale, also known as “The Lady With the Lamp”, is regarded as the founder of modern nursing. The nursing profession has evolved significantly since Nightingale’s efforts in the 19th century. Today, nursing is a gender-neutral profession, and there are many different career paths and certifications for nurses. There’s a wide selection of nursing programs and nurses work in a range of settings including classrooms, community health departments, hospitals, businesses, home health care, and in labs. More than half of all health professional students are nursing students. In 2014, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 2.7 million registered nurses in the United States, making nursing the largest healthcare profession. Nurses save lives and improve the
outcome of medical care. There is a shortage of registered nurses despite the fact that nursing is a growing profession. This speaks to the importance of nurses. Malpractice rates among nurse practitioners are quite low. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, fewer than 2% of NPs have been named as the primary defendant in a malpractice case. Gallup polls on Honesty/Ethics in Professions consistently rank nurses as the most trusted professionals. Over 80% of participants ranked the honesty and ethical standards of nurses as very high or high for the last 10 years. Nurses are necessary in providing the best medical care possible. Thank you to all of the nurses on the MANA team, and to nurses everywhere! Be sure show your appreciation to the nurses you know this week!
Thank You
Frontline Workers For getting Us Through The Darkest Times
We Appreciate Our Local
Healthcare workers
Supercenter 67 • 600 Hwy 71 N, Mena
Healthcare workers are such trauma queens. 710 4th Street • Mena, AR
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 am-6 pm • Sat. 9 am-12:30 pm • Sun. Closed
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479-394-2214
Mon-Thurs 10am - 9pm Fri & Sat 10am - 10pm Sun 10am - 4pm
Take time to tell them thank you.
MENA
1103 N U.S. 71 MENA, AR 71953
THE POLK COUNTY
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Nursing Fast Facts Nursing is the nation's largest healthcare profession, with more than 3.8 million registered nurses (RNs) nationwide. Of all licensed RNs, 84.5% are employed in nursing.1 The federal government projects that more than 200,000 new registered nurse positions will be created each year from 20162026.2 Registered Nurses comprise one of the largest segments of the U.S. workforce as a whole and are among the highest paying large occupations. Nearly 58% of RNs worked in general medical and surgical hospitals, where RN salaries averaged $70,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.3 Nurses comprise the largest component of the healthcare workforce, are the primary providers of hospital patient care, and deliver most of the nation's
long-term care. Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 15% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth in the RN workforce will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventive care; growing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom population, as they live longer and more active lives.4 Most healthcare services involve some form of care by nurses. Registered nurses are in high demand in both acute care and community settings, including private practices, health maintenance organizations, public health agencies, primary care clinics, home health care, nursing homes, minute clinics, outpatient surgicenters, nursing school-operated clinics, insurance and managed care companies, schools, mental health agencies, hospices, the military, industry, nursing edu-
We Support Our HEALTHCARE WORKERS
To all Healthcare Workers we would like to say
4793943650
cological nursing and other advanced clinical specialties.5 Most registered nurses today enter practice with a baccalaureate degree offered by a four-year college or university or an associate degree offered by a community college.2 Employers are expressing a strong preference for new nurses with baccalaureate preparation. Findings from AACN latest survey on the Employment of New Nurse Graduates show that 46% of employers require new hires to have a bachelor’s degree while 88% strongly prefer baccalaureate-prepared nurses.6 In 2018, 17.1% of the nation's registered nurses held a master's degree and 1.9% a doctoral degree as their highest educational preparation. The current demand for master's- and doctorally prepared nurses for advanced practice, clinical specialties, teaching, and research roles far outstrips the supply.
Be Forever grateful
Fire, Water, Upholstery, Smoke Damage, Ultra-Sonic Cleaning Science & Electronic Restoration
309 S. MORROW, MENA, AR
cation, and healthcare research. Though often working collaboratively, nursing does not "assist" medicine or other fields. Nursing operates independent of, not auxiliary to, medicine and other disciplines. Nurses' roles range from direct patient care and case management to establishing nursing practice standards, developing quality assurance procedures, and directing complex nursing care systems. With more than three times as many RNs in the United States as physicians, nursing delivers an extended array of healthcare services, including primary and preventive care by nurse practitioners with specialized education in such areas as pediatrics, family health, women's health, and gerontological care. Nursing's scope also includes services by certified nurse-midwives and nurse anesthetists, as well as care in cardiac, oncology, neonatal, neurological, and obstetric/gyne-
2021 is the year of the health care worker
479-394-1840
THANK YOU!
Nurse Appreciation 15
16 Community
May 12, 2021
School board election May 18
School elections for the three Polk County School districts will be Tuesday, May 18, 2021. Only one Vote Center will be open on Election Day, and that will be at Cove. When there are no contested races or millage issues, Arkansas State Law allows for all the voting to be conducted by Absentee and Early Voting. The Mena and Ouachita River School Districts have no contested races and no millage issues. The Cossatot River School District has one contested race, so voters will be able to vote Absentee, by Early Voting, or at the Cove Vote Center on Election Day. Early Voting will be in the Polk County Clerk's Office in the Polk County Courthouse in Mena 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, May 11th - 14th, and 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 17, 2021. The one contested race in the Cossatot River School District is for Zone 6 and the candidates are Leona Scott and Sandy Fryar. Running for re-election uncontested are Edward Puckett and Phillip Wilson in the Mena School District, Chris Tedder and Annette Hays in the Ouachita Richer School District, and Alex Wade in the Cossatot River School District.
THE POLK COUNTY
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Mental Health Awareness Month
Mayor Seth Smith recently signed a proclamation designating May 2021 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Mena, Arkansas. This past year presented so many different challenges and obstacles that had profound impacts on the mental health of people of all ages. The proclamation encourages local citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses and schools in Mena to commit our community to increasing awareness and understanding of mental health, and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all people with mental health conditions.
2021 County Farm Families of the Year Named County families for the 74th annual Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program have been selected. The families will be visited by a set of judges to determine eight district winners, who will be announced June 15. The state Farm Family of the Year will be announced in December at the Farm Family of the Year luncheon in North Little Rock. Since 1947, the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year Program has served as a vehicle to recognize outstanding farm families throughout the state. The objectives of the Farm Family of the Year program are: To give recognition and encouragement to farm families who are doing an outstanding job on their farm and in their community; To recognize the importance of agriculture in the community and state; and To disseminate information on im-
proved farm practices and management. The county winners are:
Western District Conway – Foshee Family Farms, Atkins Faulkner – Tim and Judith Allen, Mayflower Logan – Whitaker Farms, Booneville Montgomery – Perry and Paula Sing, Oden Perry – Tim Hubbard family, Adona
Polk – James and Janet Watkins, Vandervoort
Pope – Jason and Becky Smith, Atkins Yell – Ernest Doyle Buckman III, Havana “Each year the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program recognizes the
outstanding farmers and ranchers who make up our state,” said Rich Hillman of Carlisle, president of Arkansas Farm Bureau. “These families are involved in essential work, not only providing food for my family and yours, but also serving as the ultimate stewards of the land and water resources.
“Congratulations to these farm families. We are proud to honor their work and dedication to Arkansas agriculture, our state’s largest economic sector.” The Farm Family of the Year program begins each year with the selection of top farm families in each county and culminates in December with the selection of the state Farm Family of the Year, who then go on to represent Arkansas at the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year. Arkansas has had two Southeast Farm of the Year winners; Brian and
Nan Kirksey of Clark County in 2008 and Wildy Family Farms of Mississippi County in 2016. All winners are judged on their farm production, efficiency, management, family life and rural/ community leadership. Sponsors of the Farm Family of the Year program are Arkansas Farm Bureau, the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas and the three Farm Credit agencies that serve Arkansas: AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas and Midsouth Farm Credit. Additionally, support for the program is provided by the Arkansas Agriculture Department, Arkansas Department of Career Education, Arkansas Press Association, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture and the USDA’s Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Rural Development.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Community 17
May 12, 2021
DAR Thanks Local Law Enforcement Officers For Their Service By Brenda Cunningham On behalf of the James K. Polk Daughters of the American Revolution, members Kathy Hagler and Brenda Cunningham presented Sheriff Scott Sawyer, Police Chief Tommy Stueart, and Assistant Chief Tod Cannon with baskets of “Thank You” goodies to show their appreciation to the" Heroes behind the badge.” May 9-15 is set aside to honor those who have fallen and those who still serve. James K. Polk Chapter wants to personally thank each officer for all they do. Please join the Daughters of the American Revolution and thank a Law Enforcement officer for their service. In 1961, the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day Congress asked President Eisenhower to designate May 15 as a day to honor peace officers as a part of "Police Week.” On May 9-15, and especially on May 15, may we pay tribute to all fallen officers and honor those who are still serving for the cause of order, justice and freedom, without which our society would decay more rapidly into chaos and ultimately tyranny. Let’s make an extra effort to extend a hearty “thank You” to one or more of our law enforcement officers, both active and retires, and remember these special public servants and their family’s in our prayers. May 15 is national Peace Officers’ Memorial Day”
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18 Community
May 12, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Smart puts the Pal in Principal HHE principal, Tamara Smart and her 4th grade daughter, Lainey sure know how to make our staff feel
special during Teacher Appreciation
Week! There has been awesome food
in our lounge daily and today the gift
baskets are a perfect gift for the challenging year our staff has faced.
Though COVID has delivered lemons in many ways, our staff has continued to make lemonade! Hats Off to
our amazing staff, and thank you, Mrs. Smart for the way you love your school!
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT This is Mrs. Tisha White, 3rd grade Science/Math Instructor at Holly Harshman Elementary. She is definitely a teacher making a huge difference! Our HHE Outdoor Science Classroom had grown up and needed much attention to be safe for use. Mrs. White and her husband, JR worked for multiple days giving FREE labor to provide the much needed mowing, weedeating and attention for the area to be safe for students to use. HATS OFF to our amazing teacher, Mrs. White. She reminds me of a favorite quote, "Be the change you wish to see in the world,”-Ghandi.
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 12, 2021
Around Town
Around Town 19
Applications are being accept-
you had your mammogram this Instructor Sherri McCourtney will be on the of experience in recreation ministry, Sports
ed for kindergarten age stu-
year? The UAMS Mobile MammoVan will Mena campus to register students May 13 and Ministry of North TX. Come Join Us! Sponprovide on-site mammograms at the Polk 17. For more information, contact McCourtney sored by: First Baptist Church of Hatfield.
dents who will attend Vandervoort
Elementary
next year.
Kindergarten students must be 5 on or before
County Health Department in Mena. This ser- at 479.234.3605. vice is provided by the University of Arkansas
August 1, 2021. Pre-Kindergarten screenings for Medical Sciences. May 19th 2021 at 9am
GriefShare is starting a new 13 week
for Kindergarten students will be May 4th at Polk County Health Department , 702 Horn- series at First Presbyterian Church in Mena. and May 5th from 8am-12pm. It will take beck Avenue in Mena Contact: UAMS Mobile Meetings are each Thursday from 10 am until
Christian coaches coaching basketball basics with Christian ethics and sportsmanship. For more information or to register call First Baptist Church of Hatfield 870-389-6412 or email:
Mammography at 1-800-259-8794 * Mam- noon and are open to anyone in the commu- fbchhatfield @ gmail.com, You may mail be evaluated. Pre-Kindergarten day will be mograms are by appointment only. Please nity grieving the loss of a loved one. For more your completed registration form & entry fee to: FBC Hatfield, Attn BB Camp, P O Box 108, May 7th from 9:00-11:30am. Students who call the office to schedule. With or Without information call 479-234-3419. approximately 30 minutes for your child to
will attend kindergarten next year can get Insurance. Pre-registration is required.*Must acquainted with the teachers and classrooms.
be 40 and older
Parents are responsible for transportation. If
Hatfield, AR 71945 Ink- Concord Cemetery Assoc. Our Annual Meeting and Decoration Day for
OLT Business Meeting open to
Alcoholics Anonymous meet at the cemetery: May 16, 2021 with Annual the public at 5:30 PM on Thursday, May 20. Program or Van Cove Preschool, please send 3 p.m. Sundays, at 5 p.m. Tuesdays and at meeting : 2:00pm Concord Fellowship. DonaIt will be followed by a short program and $3.75 for lunch or send a sack lunch with 8p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn at the tion may be mailed to Concord Cemetery, P.O. reception honoring retiring president Rudi them. Crossing Church. For information call 479- Box 696, Mena, AR 71953. Timmerman around 6:00 PM. 234-8366 or 479-216-3786 your child is not currently enrolled in the ABC
Van-Cove Preschool is now tak-
Decoration Day at Lone Valley
ing applications for the 2021-
Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 Cemetery east of Hatfield on May 16 at
2022 school year. Our program offers
It’s easy to have your event
p.m. Monday, at 7 p.m. Thursday, at 7 p.m. 2:30 pm. Donations can be dropped off at listed in Around Town, which will
a fun learning environment in which students Friday, and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus Shelter Insurance in Hatfield.
be read on radio stations KENA
develop their social, physical, cognitive and barn at the Crossing Church. For information
and KQOR daily. Simply send
FBC Basketball Date: May 31st – your Around Town announceJune 02nd, Monday – Wednesday, 8:00 – ment to news@mypulsenews. UofA Rich Mountain has an- 11:30 AM, Begins on Memorial Day, Limited com or call 479-243-9600 and nounced two upcoming summer courses to to 50 players. $10 per student for first famlet us know about your event! become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). ily member. $ 5 per student for additional To have it in the Polk County Each course will be held on the Mena campus. brother or sister!! *Basketball Camp is open Classes will be Monday through Thursday 8 to boys or girls, 7 years old to 12 years old. Pulse newspaper, we need to am until 3 pm beginning May 24. A TB skin *Camp will be held in the old Hatfield High know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We
emotional skills. Children ages 3 to 5 years, call Erica at 479-216-7249. that are not enrolled in Kindergarten, may attend. We offer full and part time slots for your convenience. Students are charged a fee of $16.00 a day that includes breakfast, lunch, and a snack. Enrollment forms may be picked up at the office or contact Sharon Sellers 870-584-9826 for more information.
test, drug test, and background check must School gym, Monday through Wednesday. look forward to continuing to Women – 40 and Over Have
be completed before the first day of class. *Sports Ministry Outreach has over 35 years
serve the community!
20 Police Reports
May 12, 2021
The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG
May 3, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 601 near Shady of issues with a family member. Deputy responded. Report of two vehicles broke down on Polk 605 near Vandervoort. Deputy responded. Report of an unattended death on Hwy 370 near Board Camp. Deputy responded. Report of a dispute between neighbors on Sugartree Lane near Board Camp. Deputy responded. Information forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Report from complainant on Hwy 375W near Mena of a scam. Deputy responded. Arrested was Jesse L. Zamora, 38, of Mena, on a Body Attachment Warrant. May 4, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 31 near Cove of a dog bite victim. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 184 near Acorn of trespassing. Deputy responded. Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Tyler J. Cornelius, 27, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply and a Body Attachment Warrant.
Arrested by a trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Alban R. Beckwith, 29, of Cove, on eight Failure to Appear Warrants. May 5, 2021 Report of an individual removing trash from a dumpster. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 674 near Board Camp of identity fraud. Arrested by an officer with the Drug Task Force was David L. Evans, 65, of Wickes, on a Warrant for Delivery of Meth or Cocaine. Arrested was Carlos G. Gonzalez, 64, of Hatfield, on six Warrants for Failure to Appear. May 6, 2021 Report of an intoxicated individual on Polk 191 near Ink. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 124 near Shady Grove of identity fraud. Report from complainant of identity fraud. Report of a structure fire on Red Bird Lane near Rocky. Deputy responded. Report of a fire near a hay barn on Polk 31 near Hatfield. Deputy responded. Arrested was Stephenie Ashcraft, 29, of Mena, on a Probation Violation. May 7, 2021 Report from complainant on Amber Lane near Dallas Valley of identity fraud. Report from complainant on Polk 42 near Potter of stolen medications. Deputy responded.
Report from complainant on Polk 675 near Big Fork of a vehicle not being returned. Deputy responded. May 8, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 185 near Ink of possible stolen property. Deputy responded. Arrested was Terrina D. Williams, 49, of Hatfield on a Warrant for Delivery of Meth or Cocaine. May 9, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 28 near Hatfield of a horse being shot. Deputy responded. Report of a dog bite victim on Polk 36 near Hatfield. Deputy responded. Arrested was Kymberlie A. Chaney, 24, of Cove, on a Probation Violation. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 20 Incarcerated Inmates, with 4 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORTS May 2, 2021 A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. May 3, 2021 Torri Veal, 27, was served with two warrants after contact on Highway 71. A report of disorderly conduct and littering was taken from Executive Inn. A report of harassment was taken from a person at Davis Brothers. A report of criminal trespass and criminal mischief was taken from a walk-in complainant.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Jimmy Davis, 45, was charged with Criminal Trespass and Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a complaint from Walmart. May 4, 2021 A report of criminal mischief was taken from St Agnus Catholic Church. May 5, 2021 A report of theft was taken from a person at the Northside Laundry Mat. Benjamin Farley, 22, was charged with Possession of Meth and Public Intoxication after a welfare check at Walmart. May 6, 2021 Charles Morgan, 43, was charged with Possession of Meth, Possession of a Schedule 4 Controlled Substance, and served with two warrants after a stop on Martin Street. Laine Barber, 26, was served with a warrant at the police department. Marlania Gonzalez, 36, was served with a warrant at the police department. May 7, 2021 A report of theft of property was taken at Mt. View Clinic. A report of interference with a custody exchange was taken at the Mena Police Dept. May 8, 2021 Tyler Cook, 19, was issued a citation for seeding, driving on a suspended driver license and no proof of insurance. Abram Abernathy, 24, and Chelsea Roba, 25 were issued a citation for disorderly conduct. Bryan Russell, 39, was charged for internet stalking and sexual indecency with a minor after an investigation.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Brinkley Shooting Investigated by State Police The Arkansas State Police is continuing its investigation today of a suspected homicide that occurred Thursday, May 6 at the Brinkley Housing Authority Office. Brinkley Police Department authorities have requested special agents of the state police Criminal Investigation Division to lead the investigation. Bernard Pearson, 33, of Brinkley was shot shortly before 6:00 PM while on the housing authority office parking lot at 418 Chicago Street. When local police arrived at the crime scene Pearson was alive but died last night after he was transported to a Forrest City hospital. Special agents report that a 26 year old Fayetteville man later surrendered to local police. He has been interviewed by state police special agents assigned to the case. At the request of the Monroe County prosecuting attorney, the suspect continues to be held while the investigation is continuing. Pearson’s body has been transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory where the manner and cause of death will be determined.
Helena Police ask CID to lead Investigation The Arkansas State Police has been requested to lead an investigation into the death of a 73 year old Helena-West Helena woman. Special Agents of the state police Criminal Investigation Division have opened a homicide case after local police discovered the body of Genoria Mosby outside her home at 121 South 5th Street. Helena-West Helena police officers were sent into the neighborhood at 8:55 PM, Tuesday (May 4th) after they were notified of gunfire in the area. No one was found wounded at the time, nor anything to indicate trouble in the area. After sunrise this morning Mos-
May 12, 2021 by’s body was found. There was evidence to lead police to believe she had been struck by gunfire. The body has been sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab where a manner and cause of death will be determined. The investigation remains active and on-going.
2 Dead In Madison County Homicide A Madison County man is in custody after he allegedly shot his mother, father and uncle. Madison County Sheriff ’s deputies responded about 5:30 AM today to a residence south of Huntsville off Arkansas Highway 23. Inside the residence at 1641 Madison County Road 5675, deputies found Richard Simmons Jr., 67, still alive. Simmons’ brother, Mark Lee Simmons, 66, and Richard Simmons’ wife, Mary Marlene Simmons, 65, were both dead. Samuel Oliver Simmons, 44, the son of Richard and Mary Simmons, was later apprehended near Huntsville by an Arkansas State Trooper of the department’s Highway Patrol Division, Troop L. Simmons lived at the same address with his parents and uncle. Richard Simmons is reported to be in stable condition at a Fayetteville hospital. The bodies of Mark and Mary Simmons have been transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory where a manner and cause of death will be determined.
479-394-7301
1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
State Crime 21
THE FASCINATION OF JESUS (Taken from my book “To Be Like Jesus”) Mt. 26:33 “Then Peter answered and said to Him; if all will be stumbled because of You, I will never be stumbled.” It is so easy to follow Him in the beginning. We are utterly fascinated with Someone who is altogether new, Someone who is altogether exciting, Someone who is so different from anyone and anything that we had known before. But after a few years, or even a few months for some, the new wears off, and the hard reality of Christ begins to sink in. This is about a cross! This is about dying to self! This is about a life controlled by Someone else. This is about giving up all claim to myself. In the beginning the walk is so exciting, so fascinating, that each day is an adventure and it is almost as if we don’t need the Spirit of God to enable us to do it. It is almost as if we need someone to hold us back, rather than to lead us forward. But at some point, our Lord leads us to a moment of realization, a critical time in our lives in which we see the truth about ourselves and about Him, and about life in general. For Peter it was the time immediately after he denied our Lord. Peter was convinced that this would never happen, he was too strong, too faithful, too yielded to Christ. But it did happen. And it happens in one way or another to all of us. The worst thing in Peter’s life, to this point, became the most important thing in his life! For it was not in the good times and the easy times that Peter found the reality about himself, it was in this the worst of all times. For those many months Peter followed Jesus for more reasons than one. He followed because He believed Him to be the Messiah. He followed because he was fascinated with Him. He followed because others were following. But now, after total reality has set in, he will follow simply because it is Jesus Who has called. Nothing romantic about this call. Nothing particularly exciting about this call. In fact it has begun to look like it may be a bit dangerous! But Jesus has called and now Peter must go. No other reason but this. So, what do we do when the initial fascination wears off? Do we give up and sit down and forget it all? Or do we now follow Him in the narrow way just because it is Him, or do we still look for the excitement, the fascination that we had in the beginning? Jesus did not come to be a role model: He did not come to be a martyr. He came as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” Will we follow Him to the end, even if the end turns out to be a cross? Or will we quit when the fascination wears off, when things get a bit tough? Remember this: Christ said “he who puts his hand to the plow (the Truth) and turns and looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Choices. Always choices. My name is Gene Stacks and I approve of this message.
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CLASSIFIEDS - NOTICE -
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Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also lite deliveries. (870)4901191 T120220
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Mowing, weedeating, and hedge trimming- When you need an extra hand in Mena/Polk County call 479-234-0509. Please leave a message 070721 Ladies, I will quilt your quilt tops. Will take your keep-sake t-shirts and make a quilt for you. Please call (479)394-6209 to text (479)243-3232
- YARD SALES Yard Sale, Thursday & Friday, May 13 & May 14, 3006 Hwy 71 North. Kathi Miner’s. Nice kids clothes, Queen size mattress and box springs, dinette table and 6 chairs. Sale #2! Downsizing continues, lots of antiques vintage collectibles, useful household items, all at good prices. Front porch 204 Reine St South. Corner of Reine and Magnolia St, Sat may 15, 8 AM. Rain cancels.
- FOR SALE AR-15 Black Diamond, 2012 Kubota L370054 4WD Tractor 792 Hrs, Backhoe with 16 in bucket hydrostatic transmission, front loader, operator’s manual, also 6 foot bush hog, forks, hay spears, a sickle cutter. (479)216-0712 T0512 Ducks, Chicks, silver pheasant chicks, adult silver pheasants, red and gold and gold silver pheasants & goslings & adult peacocks India blue and rabbits, Call Jimorerdy Martin (479)394-0134 T0402 New & used books: Westerns, mystery, sci-fi; jewelry. Mena Flea Market 909 Mena At, Booth #62 T0512
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 12, 2021
The Polk County Housing Authority will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 at 10 a.m. The meeting will be in the Community Room at the office of the Housing Authority 509 South Morrow St., Mena, AR. Meeting is to allow interested persons to comment on the proposed adoption of the Annual Plan for the year 2021 pursuant to the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998. A copy of the proposed Plan will be available for public inspection and copying at the Housing Authority office at 509 South Morrow St. beginning Wednesday, May 12th, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The public may submit written comments to Dixie Shrader, Executive Director of the Sh Polk County Housing Authority, 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR 71953, no later than 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 29th, 2021.
- EVENTS The family of Lonnie Huff will be giving him a 95th Birthday Party, May 15th 1-3, at the Polk Co Fair Grounds. We would like to invite all our family and friends to come out and celebrate with us. No gifts please, your attendance will be enough.
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ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 05.05.21
Why am I here?
Did I do something wrong?
There are too many homeless pets in our area and they are in desperate need of your help. They have come to the shelter for reasons that are not their fault and because they can not survive on their own. Will you please consider giving one the loving home that they so greatly deserve? You can visit them at...
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS
I just want to be loved.
TUES. THROUGH SAT. ● 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR
(479) 394-5682
WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
24 State
THE POLK COUNTY
May 12, 2021
Governor Hutchinson's Weekly Address
Sunken Lands Water Trail
On Wednesday, I traveled to Poinsett County for the dedication of the state’s newest water trail. Today I’d like to share a bit of the story behind the Sunken Lands Water Trail, which was created by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the St. Francis Lake Association, the Trumann Area Chamber of Commerce, and by what insurance companies refer to as an act of God. The roots of the story reach back to the New Madrid earthquakes more than two centuries ago. There is enough history, heartbreak, and political intrigue per square foot of this 37,000-acre patch of northeast Arkansas to keep genealogists, geologists, foresters, engineers, historians, and novelists busy for years. The Sunken Lands Water Trail, which is a path for paddlers rather than pedestrians, is the Game and Fish Commission’s fourteenth water trail. Sunken Lands takes its name from the earthquakes in the early 1800s when the land literally sank and disappeared under water. The quakes began in December 1811 and contin-
ued through March 1812. Land in the counties of Craighead, Mississippi, and Poinsett disappeared. An eyewitness wrote that the ground moved like waves on the land, and that the earth burst open and sent up huge plumes of water and sand. Where forests and hills once dominated, only flooded land remained. The quakes dug chasms as deep as fifty feet and dumped land into the St. Francis River. Many who survived the quakes lost everything they owned and moved away. Some who moved west settled at Crowley’s Ridge, the only high ground left. For more than a hundred years, Arkansans worked to make something of the waterlogged regions. Their ingenuity produced the Steep Gut Floodway with a lock and sluiceway in 1926, and Marked Tree Siphons, which went into operation in 1939. A newspaper reporter for the Marked Tree Tribune wrote that the siphons lifted “the whole river thirty feet across a dam and deposited it on the other side.” The siphons and the floodway controlled and drained the water, and allowed towns such as Lake City, Turrell, Lepanto, Marked Tree, Tyronza, and Trumann to thrive. A loop off U.S. 63 runs through
much of the Sunken Lands region, including the St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area, famous for its hunting and fishing. The Marked Tree Siphons is on the National Register of Historic Places, which you can still see and which continues to siphon water. More than two-hundred years later, Arkansas has found another use for the waterway by creating the water trail, which will draw thousands of tourists. The St. Francis Sunken Lands Water Trail was conceived by local officials and nature lovers, who were assisted in their dream by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Game and Fish Biologists Jeremy Brown and Jessica Holman spent hundreds of hours on the project. Chris Colclasure, deputy director of Game and Fish, Neal Vickers, retired executive director of the Trumann Area Chamber of Commerce, and Congressman Rick Crawford supported the project. On Wednesday, I saw the trail from the shore and from a boat. The day was sunny, and the scenery was beautiful. Sunken Land Water Trails is another jewel in the Natural State’s crown, a place packed with history and primed for the future.
ELECT SANDY
FRYAR
for
●Lifelong resident of Polk County & our district ●35 year educator in our district ●Passionate about students success ●Education oriented ●Fiscally responsible
Pulse
Cossatot River School District Zone 6 We have raised our children in this district, and hopefully have inspired your children, too. The school board election s will be May 18th, and early voting is available at the Polk County Courthouse.
Your vote helps determine the future of our school and our children.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Education 25
May 12, 2021
Kenny Miller Announce Recipient of Scholarship The Shelter Insurance Foundation awarded a $2,000 scholarship to Sage Meeks, a graduate of Cossatot River High School. Shelter Agent Kenny H. Miller Jr. sponsors and partially funds this scholarship. Beginning the gall after the recipient's high school graduation, Sage Meeks can direct the scholarship funds toward tuition, fees, or campus housing for any course of study and leading to an academic degree at any accredited college or university. A committee of local high school officials and community leaders selected the local recipient. The committee considered each applicant's scholastic achievements, educational goals, citizenship, moral character, and participation and leadership in school and community activities.The scholarship is given without regard to race, disabil-
ity, religion, national origin or gender of applicants. The scholarship is paid directly to the school the recipient selects. Sage Meeks received a certificate from Kenny H. Miller Jr. on behalf of the Shelter Foundation. The Shelter Insurance Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation for charitable and educational purposes.
The Best of Baseball Post season honors have been released for the Mena Baseball Team All Conference and includes Sam Efird and Caleb Peters. All Conference Honorable Mention includes Riley Gilbert, Austin Rose and Blake Brown.
LOCATED IN MENA
(479)3377115 WWW.HOMEWOODGHC.COM
Welcome to The Green House Cottages of Homewood in Mena, Arkansas Homewood features 9 Green House Cottages that each have 12 private rooms and bathrooms. Each cottage brings dignity and choice to the elder. One of the main things that sets Homewood apart from typical senior care centers is our effort to eliminate the institutionalized feeling of traditional nursing homes with care and compassion for each elder. Homewood Green House Cottages feel, look, sound, and smell – like home.
26 Education
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 12, 2021
Choir Scholarship awarded Congratulations to Abby McIntyre, recipient of the Rachel Norman Memorial Choir Scholarship. Abby is a senior at Cossatot River High School and plans to attend Henderson State University in the fall and major in vocal music education. She is a 6 year member of the Cossatot River Choirs and a 6 year member of the South Arkansas All Region Choir. Pictured is Abby (left) with CRHS choir director Susan Brewer. Rachel Norman was a 2018 Cossatot River High School graduate and President of the CRHS Choirs. Her parents are Tim and Krystal Norman. Rachel tragically lost her life in a car accident in 2019. She will always be remembered and loved and this scholarship carries on her legacy.
Basscats make waves Congrats to Austin and Jarrett for making the TBF of Arkansas Adult State team. They will be
representing the great state of
Arkansas in the TBF Semifinal.
This brings the boys one step closer to the All-American.
Austin Rose took 3rd place and
Big Bass award on Greers Ferry on Saturday 5/8/21 in the Arkansas TBF Tournament.
STAY ALERT. STAY INFORMED. STAY SAFE.
Welcome Emily Turner APRN to the team!
Some severe weather events are predictable, others may happen with little or no warning.
Accepting Patients May 3rd
Keep yourself and your family safe and healthy in any weather emergency by visiting the CDC Natural Disasters and Severe Weather information site.
www.cdc.gov/disasters/ Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve
515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M
Call 394.7301 to make your appointment! Seeing All Patients
News of Note:
From Mena Public Schools The 2021 Mena High School Graduation is scheduled for Saturday, May 22nd at 10:00am in Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium. Each graduate will receive ten (10) tickets for the commencement ceremony broken down as follows: *Two (2) tickets will be for parents and labeled field/floor *Four (4) tickets will be labeled bleacher/UBC *Four (4) tickets will be labeled bleacher/PAC We have to separate the numbers due to the possibility of inclement weather on the day of commencement. If we are forced to take the ceremony inside, we will be live streaming the event into the Performing Arts Center for those that cannot attend inside the Union Bank Center. All seniors are required to be on campus for a senior meeting on May 14, 2021 in the PAC for an information session at 9:00 a.m.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
May 12, 2021
Community 27
Camp High Point Celebrates continued love of outdoors for 75 years Despite the Girl Scouts decision to close Camp High Point along with several other wilderness camps in 2016, that was not the end thanks to foresight and careful planning. The Conifer Area Girl Scout Council was merged with four other councils to form one state-wide council in 2008, a process which began a few years prior. Early during the realignment, the Conifer Council worried that properties may eventually be sold should any financial difficulties arise during the merger. Therefore, they formed Conifer Area Properties (CAP)—a non-profit property holding company—for the purpose of owning and maintaining the two local Girl Scout Camps, Camp High Point in Mena, AR and Camp Karlton Kemp in Texarkana, AR. The two properties were eventually deeded back to the Girl Scouts with the condition that ownership would revert back to CAP before being sold, which happened shortly after Camp High Point’s 70th Anniversary. CAP is governed by a Board of Directors, who are dedicated to preserving the legacy of these two camps. CAP’s mission is to provide outdoor recreation areas for youth organizations—no longer exclusively to the Girl Scouts but now to any youth organization that wants to utilize the sites. The properties are also available to rent for various other purposes, such as family getaways, corporate retreats, weddings, etc. Camp High Point and Camp Karlton Kemp both had notable anniversaries in 2020 but were not celebrated until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Camp High Point was purchased in 1945, and the first summer camp was held there in 1946. A reunion camp was held at Camp High Point on April 24–25, 2021 to celebrate its 75th Anniversary. The land for Camp Karlton Kemp was donated in 1960, making 2020 its 60th Anniversary.
List with Christy!
Christy Titsworth started at United Country in 2016 and fast became a top agent. In 2017 she and her husband John were the top selling team in the Mena Area Board of Realtors. In 2018 she was the top producing female agent in the MLS and since 2019 has been the top selling agent in the MLS, outperforming everyone in the th trade. She has come a long way and continues to serve buyers and sellers in Polk, Scott and Montgomery Counties in Arkansas.
Christy Titsworth Sales Associate United Country Arkansas Properties 479-394-7545 Office 479-216-0050 Cell 479-394-3444 Fax ww www.unitedcountrymena.com christy@unitedcountrymena.com
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THE POLK COUNTY
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May 12, 2021
ACORN TIGERS BOYS CLASS AA 2021 STATE TRACK MEET CHAMPIONS The Acorn Seniors won the 2021 State Track Championship held at Gurdon on May 5. The Tigers went into the meet as a top contender and won the title with host Gurdon placing 2nd. Acorn finished with 90 total points and Gurdon 75. Quitman was 3rd. The Tigers top performer was Junior Justice Neufeld who won 3 individual titles in 800, 1600 and 3200. He also anchored the winning 3200 Meter Relay. Senior Trysten Richey had individual wins in 100 and 200, and anchored the winning 1600 Meter Relay.
The Tigers finished off the meet like they started in the 3200 Relay with first in the 1600 Relay with Brady Hair, Damian Bohlman, Riley Weddle and Trysten Richey. The Tigers finished the year with a 2nd place finish in the Mineral Spring Relays and dominating 1st in the District Conference. This gives the Acorn Cross Country and Track program 8 State Titles. Acorn Sr. Girls:
The Acorn Sr. Girls placed 11th. The Tigers were Sophie The Tigers started off the running finals with a dominatStrasner 6th in 800. Bella Tedder was 7th in 1600 and ing win in the 3200 Relay, with Sky Carmack, Damian man and Noah Holland were 8th. In the 400 Brady Hair 3200. In the 800 relay Reagan Weddle, Daisy Dollar, Bohlman, Brady Hair and Justice Neufeld. Trysten Richey was 3rd. The Tigers made a big move in 800 scoring 16 Corryn Holland, Sophie Strasner were 6th. Also taking took 1st in 100. The 400 Relay of Riley Weddle, Trys- points with Neufeld taking 1st and Damian Bohlman 3rd. 6th in 1600 Relay were Corryn Holland, Sophie Strasner, ten Richey, Noah Holland and Brady Hair was 8th. In the Daisy Dollar, Page Parnell. Trysten Richey took 1st in 200 and then the Tigers sealed 1600 Neufeld was 1st and Isaac Tedder was 6th. the victory in 3200 with Justice Neufeld dominating the 4th in the 3200 Relay were Paige Parnell, Bella Tedder, In the 800 relay Riley Weddle, Jonah Rogan, Jacob Cott- field and Isaac Tedder in 6th. Daisy Dollar and Sophie Strasner.