Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
November 15, 2023
Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com
Actor Dawn Olivieri: Rescuing the Momma Baby Army
INSIDE:
Return to Arkansas As the second weekend of November was coming to an end, she was doing a livesWord has slowly spread throughout the tream on Instagram in the rainy weather. area that an actor known to many around They were preparing to build a new pen here from the popular TV series “Yellowfor more horses arriving, clearing passtone” (Sarah Atwood) and one of its ture, organizing, and ordering medicine spinoff, “1883” (Sarah and feed. Dutton), has property in The new webPolk County. site moonmounDespite being on othtainsanctuar yer popular programs, andrescue.com those two probably have went live Tuesa larger fanbase in ruday for adoptral Arkansas with the ing some of the ranch lifestyle, horses, healthy horses. cattle and bucolic livOn Instagram, ing. Dawn Olivieri is the it’s moon_mounonly actor to play two tain_sanctuary. distinct characters in the Olivieri isn’t Taylor Sheridan-verse. the only one Granted, in “1883” her jumping around role is short-lived. from place to Though her roles are place. Her vetermake believe, the St. inarian partner Petersburg, Florida, naand friend Dr. tive’s love of horses and A few of the horses rescued by Dawn Olivieri. (Photo by Samantha Maechler) Cameron Stoudt the outdoors is authenof Equine Sports tic. Her Instagram page is proof as she sodes out here for now, wait for winter to Medicine and Rehabilitation bounces bediscusses her journey in rescuing what pass and then as soon as the snow melts, tween the Fort Worth, Texas, region and she calls the Momma Baby Army. we’ll do the rest of them.” Arkansas. She can occasionally be seen Olivieri was on location in Utah Olivieri was hoping to return to Ar- doing livestreams, showing the health watching snowflakes as she tried during kansas to take care of things at the ranch. and progress of the rescued horses. her busy schedule to make arrangements “There’s a flurry happening up here “Yeah, she’s in [Arkansas] right now. from afar for her ranch and horses. right now. I’m stressed out because I just I’ve been texting her,” Olivieri said. “I’ve Meanwhile, Arkansas was preparing for wanna get home so I can winterize all the been so focused on what we need to winits first below-freezing temperatures the water lines and, I’m working on getting terize. I’ve been texting everybody and week before Halloween. a well dug for the horses. I’m like, ‘Don’t trying to be the command center from “We did ‘1883’ down around the Fort freeze right now. It’s too soon.’” afar. She runs a big equine clinic just out Worth area and then ‘Yellowstone’ is in See HORSES Montana,” Olivieri said. “I’m just jumpcontinued on page 18 By Ethan Nahté (Part 1)
Veterans Day Tribute
Pages 9 & 12
Youth Hunt
Pages 11-12
Mena Wrestling Scrimmage
Page 19
ing all over the place. This is a different show. This is a new show called ‘Homestead,’ and it’s a post-apocalyptic, faithbased series from the same people who made ‘The Chosen.’ It’s gonna be a regular thing. I’m in it from the beginning. We’re gonna only do the first two epi-
2 News
November 15, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Man shot in hunting accident near Cove Food commodities distribution on November 15 The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) commodities will be distributed Wednesday, Nov. 15, at the Polk County Fairgrounds, Polk Road 43, Mena, from 1-3 p.m. The information for the Commodity Distribution is listed below. COVID restrictions have ended, however this will still be a drive through only distribution. Please do not exit your vehicle. An application will be completed at the distribution site.
FAMILY SIZE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Each additional family member
WEEK $365 $493 $622 $750 $879 $1,007 $1,136 $1,264
MONTH $1,580 $2,137 $2,694 $3,250 $3,807 $4,364 $4,921 $5,478
YEAR $18,954 $25,636 $32,318 $39,000 $45,682 $52,364 $59,046 $65,728
+ $129
+ $557
+ $6,682
The above income guidelines are based on 130% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You cannot pick up commodities for more than two households. Rules for acceptance and participation in the program are the same for everyone without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, or handicap. For more information call the local ARVAC, Inc. office at 479-394-4707 located at 606 Pine Ave, Mena.
On Saturday, Nov. 11, at approximately 5:35 p.m., the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office received a 911 call about an accidental shooting seven miles east of Cove, Arkansas, on Polk 32. The victim, a 22-year-old male, had been accidentally shot by his hunting partner while crossing a creek. Deputies, local volunteers, and Southwest Ambulance service responded to the scene. Upon arrival, Deputies immediately began providing lifesaving treatment. The victim, who suffered injuries to his arm and abdomen, was triaged at the scene until being airlifted to UAMS in Little Rock. An update on the victim’s condition, provided by his family, stated that he had extensive injuries to his arm, liver, lung, and diaphragm. He’s already had several surgeries and will require more in the coming days and weeks. He is currently “stable but is not out of the woods yet.” Sheriff Sawyer stated, “This was a horrible accident, and we are all praying for the victim, his family, and his friends. I’d like to recognize and thank all of the first responders involved in helping at the scene. I’d particularly like to recognize Dep-
uty Josh Butterworth, Deputy Layton Mohr, Deputy Ben Lindsey, and Deputy Thad Thomas for their outstanding work in helping save this young man’s life. “Upon arrival at the scene, they went to work providing lifesaving care, helped evac him and set up an emergency LZ, and coordinated with Life Flight to get the victim transported a trauma center. Without their help, this horrible accident could’ve been much worse.”
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Radio - Print - Web 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Swap Shop-479-394-2800 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
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Our Team: Jamie Hammack - General Manager Ethan Nahté - Production Manager/Editor Patrick Massey - Contributing Reporter/ On-Air Talent John Russell - Graphic Design Curt Teasdale - Programmer /On-Air Personality Ariel Varner - Office Manager/On-Air Personality Distribution & Insertion Staff: Chaz Welch, Deanna Wright, & Steven Hart 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.
I see lots of politicians and others complaining about the number of refugees and other immigrants that are crossing the southern border of the U.S. What I fail to see are viable solutions to this problem. The U.S. cannot build a wall to keep out refugees because that is a violation of US and international laws. Laws that have been accepted by the U.S., and should be honored by the U.S. When George W. Bush was president, he worked with a small group from Congress on a proposed revision to the U.S. immigration laws. However, Congress refused to take up the reforms. Since then, nothing has been done by Congress except to point the finger of blame and try to deflect attention away from their own failure to do their job. For years immigration has been used as a political football with each party blaming the other. It is way past time that the American public stop helping politicians play their sick games, and instead, demand that politicians of both parties work together to create an immigration law that works. It is obvious that there are numerous jobs in the US that can be filled by immigrants. It is known that there is a labor shortage in the US for both skilled and unskilled labor. It is well documented that the drug problem in the US has contributed to the conditions in Central and South America that is causing people to flee from their homes and seek safety in the U.S. It should be noted that
Letters 3
Want to share your opinion? it is also U.S. policy and embargos against other countries such as Cuba and Venezuela that is creating thousands of refugees.\ - The rights of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers are protected by both international and US law. - The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 14), which states that everyone has the right to seek and enjoy asylum from persecution in other countries. - The 1951 UN Refugee Convention (and its 1967 Protocol), which protects refugees from being returned to countries where they risk being persecuted. - The 1990 Migrant Workers Convention, which protects migrants and their families. - Regional Refugee law instruments (including 1969 OAU Convention, 1984 Cartagena Declaration, Common European Asylum System and Dublin Regulation). The immigration problem is not going away, and walls and barbed wire and other such barriers will not stop it. There are businesses in the US which need immigrant labor, and having this labor available makes life better for the rest of us. Instead of joining the politicians in pointing fingers at each other is it not time to demand that our
The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language. Letters do not reflect the viewpoints or opinions of Pulse Multi-Media. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. Letters will be restricted to 500 words. Any letters longer than 500 words will require purchase of advertising space. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after-hour convenience.
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politicians do their job and pass meaningful and comprehensive immigration reform? Robert Tomlinson, Mena
4 News
THE POLK COUNTY
November 15, 2023
From the
State House of Representatives
As we gather around our Soybean oil is used to make tables this Thanksgiving, hundreds of foods, including mayonnaise, peanut butter, we encourage Arkansans to and ranch dressing. take a moment to acknowledge the unsung heroes of From casseroles to rice this holiday season—our pudding, another Arkansas farmers. crop makes its way to the Thanksgiving is a time John Maddox Thanksgiving table every year. Arkansas ranks first to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives, and the hard- among rice-producing states, acworking men and women who toil counting for more than 50 percent in the fields, day in and day out, de- of U.S. rice production. serve a special place in our hearts Agriculture is Arkansas’s largest this season. Arkansas farmers are industry, adding around $16 billion the ones responsible for growing to our state’s economy every year. the crops and raising the livestock There are 49,346 farms statewide that grace many of our tables. and 97 percent of Arkansas’ farms In fact, Arkansas ranks 3rd in the are family-owned. nation in turkeys raised. But that’s So, as you savor each bite of not the only popular Thanksgiving your Thanksgiving meal, rememdish that may have started its jour- ber to give thanks to the individuals ney on an Arkansas farm. who make this feast possible. Let’s Arkansas is the 4th largest pro- make this holiday a true celebration ducer of sweet potatoes and our of gratitude, not only for the food state ranks 6th in the nation in the on our plates but for the hands that acreage of pecans. nurture the land. In the last year, Arkansas farmYou can help show your appreciers harvested more than 695,000 ation to our Arkansas farmers and acres of corn. food service workers by looking for Arkansas currently ranks 11th in the “Arkansas Grown” label at your the nation in soybean production. local supermarket.
Contact Your Legislators!
John Maddox
John Boozman
john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060
1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553
Terry Rice
Bruce Westerman
Terry.Rice@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 2195 Waldron, AR 72958 479-637-3100
101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887
From the
State Senate
Pulse
The Arkansas legislature has districts shall establish a behavtried to apply lessons learned ioral threat assessment team, by other states when it enacted which will look for warning school safety laws over the past signs of potentially dangerous several years. behavior and work with local The legislature also applied law enforcement agencies. the best practices recommendSchool resource officers and ed by the School Safety Comlocal law enforcement officers Terry Rice mission in 2018 and 2022. who work on school campuses The Senate and House Committees are not to be part of routine disciplinary on Education heard an update from the actions against students. chair of the commission, who said that Another important new law passed “collectively we’ve passed some of the earlier this year is Act 787 to require most comprehensive school safety leg- schools to lock exterior doors during islation in the country.” school hours, except during transition In 2021 the legislature put into law the times. recommendations of the school safeThe chair of the school safety comty commission. Act 551 set standards mission is the director of the Arkansas for training of school resource officers. Criminal Justice Institute. She told the One component of the training is youth Education Committee that she would mental health aid. continue to work for passage of laws Act 620 requires schools to have a that require classroom doors and intesystem of emergency communication rior doors to be locked. with local law enforcement, if funding Also speaking to the Education Comis available. mittee was the school safety coordinator Although the legislature has done for the state Education Department. He much to improve school safety, there lent his support to the idea of locking are several more actions that should be interior doors, telling legislators that taken, the commission chair told leg- “locked doors save lives.” islators on the Education Committee. Perpetrators have broken window One is to provide funding for panic but- panels on locked doors and fired shots tons and emergency communications. through the broken glass. But a 2015 Act 648 requires an annual lockdown report, conducted after the mass killdrill at each school in the district. It re- ing in Sandy Hook, Connecticut, found quires all counselors to take youth men- that no one had ever breached a locked tal health training, so they can better classroom door, he said. recognize the warning signs of a mental The school safety officials emphasized health crisis in time to prevent it, either the importance of “hard corners” in through treatment or other types of in- classrooms, which are areas where stutervention. dents and teachers are not visible from The school safety commission hallways, door or windows. Combined learned that many counselors were not with locked classroom doors, hard corspending a lot of time with students, ners in class rooms can save lives by aland some of their main duties were to lowing students and teachers to hide. administer tests. Unfortunately, this year is probably In 2023 the legislature enhanced going to be a record year for school school safety measures by passing Act shootings, the officials said. The record 237, the LEARNS Act. was 46 in 2022, and already there have The act extends training in youth been 45 in 2023. mental health to all school staff. School
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
5
6 Obituaries
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Eddie Gene Strother
Eddie Gene Strother, age 74, of Ink, Arkansas, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday morning, October 31, 2023. Eddie was born on Tuesday, February 8, 1949, in Mena, Arkansas, to LD “Elgie” and Opal Strother. Eddie, known for his strong character and leadership, was a loving family man who found delight in life’s simple pleasures. He was an extremely hard worker, always providing for his family and teaching his sons how to be good upstanding men. Eddie served proudly in the United States Army stationed overseas on the DMZ in Korea. Any job he had, his intuition, efficiency, and ability to get people to work their hardest always led him into leadership roles. His appreciation for traditional country tunes of George Jones and Johnny Cash reflected his tastes and interests. An outdoors enthusiast, Eddie was an avid hunter who believed in the appeal of the great outdoors. His running foxhounds, always a subject of admiration, won multiple field trials in the 1970’s, later fostering his interest in training beagle hunting dogs. His favorite pastimes highlighted his love for nature; he loved fishing, camping, and spending quality time with his sons, grandsons and granddaughters in the wild, imparting his knowledge to the younger generations. Eddie’s favorite local spots to take his family were the deer camps,
where he showed his grandkids the thrill of hunting and fishing. His favorite vacation spots were anywhere he could fish, hunt, and camp. Under his stern yet self-assured demeanor lied a heart that found joy in sharing his passions with his loved ones. Remembered by many as The Wood Hauler, his CB name, Eddie was a paragon of hard work who believed in doing things right the first time. He garnered accolades for efficiency and superior work ethic, a testament to his skillset and dedication. Eddie’s legacy extends beyond his personal accomplishments. His family remembers him as a man who loved deeply. His children and grandchildren were his world, and he cherished every moment spent with his brothers on camping trips. His paramount joy was being surrounded by family in the heart of nature, something he considered the best life could offer. With a life marked by love, hard work, and a devotion to simple pleasures, Eddie Strother leaves behind a legacy of strength, diligence, and family unity. Lastly, but most importantly, at about 6 years ago, Eddie gave his life to Jesus Christ and became a born again, child of God. We know he is with Jesus. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janice Evans; brother in law, Billy Henry; and one infant brother and one infant sister. Eddie is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Colleen Strother of Mena; two sons, and daughtersin-law, Tim and Jewell Strother of Mena, and Stacy and Priscilla Strother of Siloam Springs; brothers and sisters-in-law, JB and Gay-
le Strother of Hatfield, Freddie and Beverly Strother of Eagleton, Ronnie and Liz Strother of Yocana, Jerry and Kathy Strother of Ink; two sisters, Lou Henry of Mena, and Carolyn Marquardt of Ink; one brother-in-law, David Evans of Ink; six grandchildren, Blake Strother and wife Megan, Brock Strother, McKenzie Strother, Braxlie Bishop and husband Quinn, and Autumn Strother, Trevor Brown; two great-grandchildren, Daya Brown and Everest Bishop; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends. A funeral service was held on Friday, November 3, 2023, at 1:00 PM, at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Stacy Strother officiating. Interment followed at the Concord Cemetery in Ink, Arkansas, under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. A visitation was held prior to the service on Friday, November 3, 2023, from 12:00 - 1:00 PM, at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas. Pallbearers were Blake Strother, Brock Strother, Quinn Bishop, Adam Strother, Jacob Strother and Elgie “Razz” Evans.
Judy Gail Sickler
Judy Gail Sickler, age 69, of Mena, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 10, 2023. She was born on Thursday, November 11, 1954, to Milton M. Harned Sr. and Lillian J. Davis Harned in
Abilene, Texas. Judy loved the Lord with all her heart, she was an active member of the Christ Community Fellowship Church in Mena. Her church family was very important to her, and she enjoyed nightly bible studies with her family. Judy had a heart of gold and was always looking for ways to make the lives of those around her better. She loved hard, and will be dearly missed by all her family, friends, and everyone who was lucky enough to know her. She is preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Milton Harned Jr.. Judy is survived by her loving husband of 27 years, Brien Sickler; two daughters and son in law, Jennifer and Sam Norman of Mena, and Michelle Block of Hot Springs; granddaughter, Devyn Purcell of Mena; one sister, Peggy Parkinson of California; two nieces and their families, Paula Gerhart and Christina Randall of California; mother in laws, Lynne Sickler of California, Cindy Sickler of Mena; sister in law, Wendy and husband, Buffalo Scott of Mena; brother in law, Jason and wife, Jessica Holiday of Kansas; brother, Gary Sickler of California; and best friend, Susan Patterson of Illinois; and a host of other relatives, friends, and church family. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 2:00 PM, at the Christ Community Fellowship in Mena, Arkansas with Brother Bobby Blasingame officiating. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Online guestbook: bowserffh.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Toys for Tots and Elks angel trees updated locations
By Ethan Nahté
The Polk County Arkansas Toys for Tots program and the Elks angel tree has made updates to their Facebook page, adding more locations to drop off toys or fulfill an angel tree request. In 2022, the Mena Elks Lodge fulfilled the Christmas holiday dreams of 520 children in need throughout Polk County. Applications are for Polk County residents only and must be returned to the address provided on the application by Dec. 1. You can clip out the application located at the right or downlaod and print it from the MyPulseNews website. Toy distribution will be 8 a.m. to noon, Dec. 16. Families must bring the postcard that will be mailed out. They are seeking new, unwrapped toys, books and stocking stuffers for ages 17 and younger. They have distributed boxes or angel trees in stores, churches and businesses around Polk County, including at The Polk County Pulse/KENA/ KQOR office. Other locations: • Arvest Bank – Mena • Bealls – Mena • Chambers Bank – Mena • Calvary Baptist Church - Mena • Diamond Bank - Mena • Dollar General, Mena, Hatfield, Cove and Wickes • Family Dollar – Mena angel tree • First Presbyterian Church – Mena • First United Methodist Church – Mena • Freedom Pharmacy – Mena
• • • • • • •
The Mena Star – Mena St. Agnes Catholic Church – Mena Skyline Café – coinbox only The Q on Main/Suzy Q’s – Mena Union Bank – Mena, Hatfield and Wickes Walmart – Mena angel tree Washburn’s - Mena
You can also find updates on Facebook by searching for Polk County Toys for Tots. The program is sponsored by the Marine Corps League and the Mena Elks Lodge.
News 7
8 News By Richie Lawry
During the first part of 1993, our family built our new home. To save money, we would go to the building site every evening and clean up after the workers. Seeing the progress each day was exciting, even though it seemed painfully slow. Before the new house was completed, the house we were living in sold, and we needed a place to live while our new house was finished. My parents had an available rental house in Yocana, so we moved to the country. Our new home was nearing completion and would be ready to move into in a few weeks. We enjoyed living in the country, even if the long drive into town several times a day did get old. The house on the hilltop overlooked the highway, and cows in the field behind the house stood at the fence and watched as we moved in. Before long, the excitement of living in a new home in the country wore off for my kids. There is nothing to do, they complained. My son would let us know that he was “bored, bored, bored, bored, bored.” We didn’t have satellite television because we would only be there for a few weeks. Our only entertainment was a VHS player, a small television, and a few VHS tapes. One of the movies we owned was the Disney film “Newsies.” My daughter, who was in the eighth grade, loved the movie. It seemed that she watched it every day. The movie “Newsies” is based on the true story of the Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City. Thousands of homeless children try to make a living selling newspapers. Newsboy Jack “Cowboy” Kelly, played by Christian Bale, is a newsboy selling newspapers for Joseph Pulitzer and his paper, the New York World. The newsboys must purchase the newspapers for 50 cents per hundred and make money by selling them for a penny each. Early in the film, Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst agree to raise the
November 15, 2023
An Arkie’s Faith ‘Newsies’
“Newsies” performance by Mena High School price of newspapers for purchase by the newsboys to 60 cents per hundred. Feeling they cannot bear the added cost Jack organizes a strike with the aid of fellow newsie David. Along the way, the boys are aided by a newspaper reporter and hindered by the warden of “The Refuge,” a juvenile detention facility. Jack and the newsies gain the cooperation of rival newsboy groups from New York and Brooklyn to team up and strike against the big-shot newspaper owners. They eventually win their hard-fought demands after distributing a self-published newspaper flier and gaining the support of other non-union child workers around the city. As I heard the music and dialogue from “Newsies” in the house almost daily for several weeks, the story became embedded in my brain. After our new home was finished and we moved in, “Newsies” faded into the background as we now had many more cable television options. But I never forgot the story. A few weeks ago, the girl next door invited us to see the Mena High School production of the musical “Newsies.” She was excited about her role in the play and wanted us to see the show. I
(Photo by Richie Lawry) hadn’t thought about the “Newsies” for quite a few years, but the memories of our Yocana house and Christian Bale singing and dancing as the VHS tape of “Newsies” played almost daily came flooding back. As the play began, there was a good crowd in the audience at the Mena High School Performing Arts Center. The energetic ensemble cast kept the crowd entertained as the story progressed. I was impressed with the quality performances by the young cast. The musical was light-hearted and entertaining, with lively and spirited choreography. But as I reflected on the performance, I realized that the underlying true story was anything but light-hearted. The complexities of the newsies’ struggle could never be explored in a movie or a musical. The historical reality was one of homelessness and child exploitation. As I tried to put myself back in 1899, I wondered how I would have seen the situation. As a businessman living in a lovely home, how would I have viewed the rag-tag children standing up to respected community leaders and causing trouble? Would I have been able to see the injustice of their situation?
Joke of the Week:
People who hoard magazines have a lot of issues.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse God’s view of injustice is clear: he hates and renounces it. Yet injustice can be found in almost every area of human relationships. So, what should the Christian do when he sees injustice? Isaiah 1:17 (VOICE) says, “Learn to do good; commit yourselves to seeking justice. Make right for the world’s most vulnerable— the oppressed, the orphaned, the widow.” Unfortunately, I don’t see much of Christianity following this council. Often, Christians side with the oppressors or are the oppressors. Jesus called out the religious leaders of his time for neglecting justice. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the Law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.” Matthew 23:23 (NASB) Seeking justice is central to understanding Jesus. In his teaching and healing work, Jesus ministered to the sick, the poor, foreigners, and outcasts. He overturned unjust social structures between the rich and the poor, the powerful and the weak, and more. Micah 6:8 (NIRV) tells us: “The Lord has shown you what is good. He has told you what he requires of you. You must act with justice. You must love to show mercy. And you must be humble as you live in the sight of your God.” Jesus’ life teaches us that these three characteristics mentioned in Micah 6:8 should be embodied and reflected in our lives as we relate to our neighbors. Gentle Reader, Jesus is telling His people today to walk humbly, act with justice, show mercy, and love all of humanity. Will we listen to His voice and instruction? “Open your mouth for those who cannot speak, and for the rights of those who are left without help. Open your mouth. Be right and fair in what you decide. Stand up for the rights of those who are suffering and in need.” Proverbs 31:8,9 (NLV) Replacing windshields in Polk County for over 40 years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Veterans Day Parade 2023
Photos by Ethan Nahté
Veterans Day 9
10 Youth Hunt
Declan McDonald Age 14
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Grayson Clark Age 9
Kipton & Cooper McCleskey Ages 8 & 9
Tristan Garcia Age 11
Jazlynn Lyle Age 10
Brydon Cearley Age 10
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Youth Hunt 11
November 15, 2023
Tyler Lynch Age 15
Haydyn Hunter Age 8
Ashlyn Short Age 13
Brylee Titsworth Age 10
Avonley Henry Age
Harley Henry Age
Landri Kay Bass Age 8
12 Veterans Day
THE POLK COUNTY
Celebrating women in the military
By Ethan Nahté
When it comes to fighting for what would become the United States of America, women took an active part dating back to at least the Revolutionary War. One could mention flag maker Betsy Ross or printer, and signer of the Declaration of Independence, Mary Katharine Goddard; women who fought in battle such as Deborah Sampson who dug a bullet out of her own thigh to keep from being discovered as a woman posing as a man, or the women who possibly inspired the legend of Molly Pitcher — Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley and Margaret Cochran Corbin; spies Anna Smith Strong or Lydia Barrington Darragh, or several others, including those who were camp followers that cooked, brought water to
Pulse
November 15, 2023
the frontlines of battle or nursed the wounded. Even Gen. George Washington’s wife Martha made socks for the soldiers and raised money for supplies while running the Mount Vernon plantation while George was away. There was Civil War assistant surgeon Mary Edwards, who attempted to enlist as a surgeon with the U.S. Army but was denied because of her gender. She had a medical degree from Syracuse Medical College. She became a contract assistant sureon. She was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1865, during her lifetime, because she was a civilian at the time of her valor… only to have it rescinded in 1917. She refused to reurn the medal and wore it until her death in 1919 at the age of 86. She was restored the medal posthumously in 1977. Of the 3,500 recipients, she is
WOMEN IN THE MILITARY
the only woman recipient. Throughout each war on American soil, women tended to be a part of the action but rarely were officially recognized. Then on June 12, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed into law the “Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948,” granting women the right to serve as regular, permanent members of the U.S. armed services. That was 75 years ago. Below, you will see a few of the women from Polk County, Arkansas, who are proud to have served in the U.S. military: - Faye Baker - Cathy Bohn - Linda Johnson - Harriet Lewis - Kelly Loyd - Mary Meier - Donna Rice
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Roseanne Rob Udene Westphal Sara Wiggins
Linda Johnson, commander of the VFW Post 4451 and Department of Arkansas judge advocate, said, “It’s nice to be finally recognized. A lot of women didn’t get recognized for it until 1948. Henrietta Lewis is 100 years old and served in World War II. Faye Baker is a Korean War vet who is in her 80s or 90s.” Of course, there are several other women veterans and active service from Polk County. Veterans Day may have been Saturday, but if you know or see a woman with a military background, thank them for their service. “Things are improving every day for women in the military,” Johnson said.
BAKER, FAYE
BOHN, CATHY
JOHNSON, LINDA
LEWIS, HARRIET
LOYD, KELLY
MEIER, MARY
RICE, DONNA
ROB, ROSEANNE
WESTPHAL, UDENE
WIGGINS, SARA
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Community 13
Around Town GriefShare at First Presbyterian Church Mena meet every Wednesday at 1 p.m. for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Humane Society of the Ouachitas will meet at La Villa Mexican Restaurant in Mena at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 16. All pet lovers are welcome. Note, there will be no December meeting. GriefShare at The Crossing in Mena meets every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one. The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 394-1565 or polkarhousing.com. Christ’s Church of Cove, 5234 Hwy. 71 S, Cove gathers every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m., for free coffee and conversation. The Back Country Extension Homemakers Club meets the second Friday of each month at 1 p.m. at the UA Extension’s Education Building, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. We are a service organization affiliated with UA’s Division of Agriculture with a mission to have fun and learn new things while enriching our community and creating a more contented family life. We believe the greatest force that molds character comes from the home. Come join new friends and old as we together grow. For more info, contact Ginger at Gingerkm@protonmail.com.
Narcotics Anonymous meet at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, noon - 1 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 p.m. on Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday, and 6 p.m. on Saturday at the old bus barn at The Crossing church. For information call Erica at (479) 2345289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300. Holiday Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nov. 18, at First Presbyterian Church, corner of Church & Ninth. Baked goods, hand-crafted items, White Elephant tables, Christmas music, complimentary refreshments and door prizes. Drop by and visit Santa & Mrs. Claus from 10 a.m. to noon. Proceeds go toward church youth projects. One free photograph per family. Jam session every Tuesday night, 6-9 p.m. at Shady Mountain Events, 428 Hwy. 375 East, Mena. No charge, everyone is welcome. All genres of music. Bring your own instrument, come watch or dance. Call (479) 234-7174 with questions. First Presbyterian Church will be presenting a series on the Book of Revelation in its Adult Sunday School class on Sunday mornings beginning at 9:45. Earl Harrell will be the presenter and will focus on the titles of Jesus as revealed in the Book of Revelation. The public is invited to attend. Classes will be in the Helen Barham Room at the church, 904 Church Avenue, Mena. The Ouachita Beekeepers Association is now meeting on the second Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. in the Education Building of the UA Extension Office, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. Come early and enjoy refreshments and bee talk with other beekeepers. The Hatfield Branch Library
is open every Tuesday and Friday from noon-4 p.m. The library is located at 121 Cemetery Rd. (old Agri building) in Hatfield. The Cove Branch Library is open Monday and Thursday from noon-5 p.m. The Library is located next to Cove Town Hall at 5568 Hwy. 71 S. The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. The Center has an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459. The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has meals and activities for seniors.The hours are 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 3852373. Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at The Crossing Church, 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn. For information call (479) 234-8366 or (479) 216-3786. American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows. Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m. Reynolds Gardner Commu-
nity Men’s Breakfast every Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Mena, 8 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, Ninth Street and Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call (479) 243-0297. It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call (479) 243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!
14 Police
November 6, 2023 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 280 near Cove in reference to a welfare check. Courtney Sullivan, 27, of Mena was arrested to be held on a drug court sanction. Daniel Chaney, 28, of Gurdon was arrested on nine Failure to Appear Warrants. November 7, 2023 No reports. November 8, 2023 Jennifer Johnson, 45, of Horatio was arrested on a Body Attachment. Chad Thornton, 32, of Waldron was arrested on three Failure to Appear Warrants. Deputies were dispatched to a business near Hatfield in reference to a hit and run accident. Deputies were dispatched to a business near Big Fork in reference to contraband being found. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. November 9, 2023 Honey Harris, 20, of Mena was arrested on a warrant for 3rd Degree Domestic Battery. Deputies responded to a vehicle accident on Hwy 246 near Hatfield leading to the arrest of Gary Ward, 65, of Mena on a charge of DWI. Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to harass-
Pulse
November 15, 2023
The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG
THE POLK COUNTY
MENA POLICE REPORTS
Mena woman killed in three-vehicle accident By Ethan Nahté
Judy Sickler, 68, of Mena was November 5 killed Friday, Nov. 10, in a Caleb Clausen, 23, was served three-vehicle accident in Scott ment. Information has been forward- with warrants at Walmart. County. ed to the Prosecuting Attorney for Sickler was driving south on further consideration. November 6 Deputies were dispatched to Polk Rachel Crow, 43, was served with U.S. Highway 71 in a 2020 Kia 28 near Hatfield in reference to a when she crossed into the northa warrant on Eagle Gap Avenue. self-inflicted stab wound. A report of public intoxication bound lane and collided with a Monica Quillin, 42, of Mena was and harassment was taken at a resi- 2014 GMC heading northbound, arrested on a Body Attachment. according to preliminary fatality dence on Bullion Avenue. reports from the Arkansas State November 10, 2023 Police. Deputies were dispatched to a resi- November 7 The GMC, driven by Justin AbDebra Enis, 58, was served with a dence on Polk 117 near Mena in refwarrant at a residence on Wildwood ernathy, 26, of Waldron crashed erence to a vehicle fire. into a ditch after impact, injuring Deputies were dispatched to a resi- Street. dence on Hidden Lane near Mena in A report of theft was taken from Abernathy. reference to a structure fire. Informa- Walmart. The Kia spun around as a result tion has been forwarded to the Prosof the impact. It then reentered ecuting Attorney for further consid- November 8 the southbound lane where the eration. A report of criminal trespass was front end of the Sickler’s vehicle Deputies responded to a report of a taken from Walmart. was struck by a 2019 Ford that vehicle in the ditch on Hwy 71 S near A report of theft was taken from a had been driving south behind Wickes. walk-in complainant. the Kia. Deputies were dispatched to a resA report of harassment was taken State troopers investigating the idence on Anders Avenue near Hatfrom a walk-in complainant. wreck reported that the weather field in reference to someone breakMichelle Crawford, 31, was was clear, and the road was dry at ing into and entering the home. Shannon House, 56, of Grannis was charged with Criminal Trespass, the time of the accident. arrested on three Failure to Appear Disorderly Conduct, and Possession Warrants and a warrant for Harass- of Drug Paraphernalia at Walmart. ment. A report of criminal trespass was taken from Walmart. November 11, 2023 A report of theft was taken from Jessica Mayo, 37, of Vandervoort Walmart. was arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department on two November 9 Failure to Appear Warrants. A report of criminal trespass was taken from Walmart. November 12, 2023 Deputies responded to a report of a theft from a residence on Webb Lane November 10 Mason Moore, 19, was charged near Rocky. with criminal trespass at Walmart. A report of sexual assault was takPolk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 3 vehicle accidents this week. en at the hospital.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 15
November 15, 2023
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ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 11.08.23
A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Do you have room in your heart and home for a shelter pet?
Meet GANDOLPH!
Hello, I am Gandolph, I am such a sweet but shy puppy. I am good with other dogs, and kids. I am trained to use a doggie door. I am almost a year old. I would make a great friend and pet for you. Come to the shelter today to meet me, and take me home! All animals at HSO are current on their vaccinations and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption. If not already spayed/neutered, there may be a short delay between when you select this pet and when they are ready to go home.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
16 Classifieds
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Mountain lion sighting confirmed
- CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES Wendell’s Tree Service - Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328. T1129 Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Heavy and light dozer work, heavy excavation, soft ground to rock excavation, heavy off-road hauling, road design and construction 50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction (479) 394-9227 T1227 Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0103 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T1129 Handyman Service - Electrical and plumbing. prefer small jobs. For more details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T1115
- EVENTS Soup Sale-$10 per quart! Broccoli cheese, taco, chili, tortilla, vegetable and more. Friday, Nov. 17, Yankee Clipper Salon at Northside Shopping Center, across from Walmart, 10:00-3:00. Sold by Chapter AO/ PEO. T1115
- PUBLIC NOTICE -
Online storage foreclosure auction: Final bid date is Nov. 29, 3 p.m. Go to storageauctions.com to view and bid on the contents. T1122
- HELP WANTED -
F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0424 Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0424
Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment T0424 Find your next employee in the Pulse classifieds!
Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts. Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976. T0103 Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Roads, bridges, house pads, building pads, basements, land clearing, small lots to large tracks, ponds, stream crossings, farm roads, building demolition, site planning & prep. 50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction. (479) 394-9227 T1227
- FOR RENT -
Large 2-Bedroom Apartment For Rent appliances and utilities furnished. (479) 234-1492 T1122
- PETS FOR SALE -
For sale - AKC English Bulldog puppy, female, standard colors, and ready for their nw home. Facebook Arklatex Bulldogs to see this beauty. Call 870-642-3104 for more information. TFN
$$$$$
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POLK COUNTY PULSE
By Patrick Massey AMITY – The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has confirmed a mountain lion sighting near Amity in Clark County. The sighting was reported by a hunter who captured the animal on a game camera. AGFC biologists have investigated the sighting and determined that it is credible. Mountain lions – also known as pumas and cougars – lived throughout Arkansas until about 1920. Over the years, several sightings have been reported in other parts of the state. There have been 23 confirmed mountain lion sightings in Arkansas since 2010. Mountain lions are solitary cats, native to North America. They are typically shy and reclusive, and they rarely attack humans. In fact, mountain lions are more likely to be afraid of humans. They have learned to avoid people, and they will usually run away if they hear or see humans. In November 2014, a deer hunter shot and killed a 148-pound male mountain lion east of Hermitage in Bradley County. It was the first time a mountain lion had been killed in Arkansas since 1975. DNA from that animal revealed that it almost certainly came from a mountain lion sighted in September 2014 in southern Marion County. According to lab results, the mountain lion killed in 2014 most likely originated in the Black Hills breeding population of Wyoming and South Dakota. The mountain lion is believed to have traveled from Marion County to Bradley County in about six weeks before it was killed. “That shows you how far a mountain lion can travel in a short period,” AGFC Large Carnivore Biologist Myron Means said. “Mountain lions are not game animals; just like with other animals that do not have a recognized hunting season, they are illegal to kill. A limited “self-defense” exception exists in regulation when a person acts “under a good faith belief that he was protecting himself or other persons from imminent bodily harm or serious injury,” he added. The public is encouraged to contact their nearest AGFC office with any sightings of mountain lions with verifiable evidence.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Oden students tour SAU Submitted by Tammy L. Young
Education 17
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield awards Mena Public Schools $2,500 to construct a Take Good Care Calming Room
The SAU admission and recruitSubmitted by Mark Hobson ment staff gave the students the tour Oden High School juniors and se- and provided them with T-shirts. niors toured Southern Arkansas They enjoyed viewing the nursing Mena High School is excited to University (SAU) in Magnolia, and agriculture departments and begin working on a new campus addition. The school was recentArkansas on Sept. 28. many other buildings on campus. ly named among 75 schools in the state to receive $2,500 to construct and furnish a calming room, aimed at addressing the mental well-being of students. The funding is part of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Take Good Care Calming Room initiative. According to state data, more than 14%, or 83,135 Arkansas children and teens, are dealing with anxiety and depression. Calming rooms are designed to give students who are feeling stressed or anxious a quiet place to reflect and refocus so they can perform their best when they return to the classroom. Calming rooms often feature items such as: - Soft lighting - Tranquil colors - Comfortable furniture - Positive, inspirational messages - Journals, coloring books and other sensory objects
“To mark Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s 75 anniversary this year, we wanted to do something that would make an impact on the health and well-being of young people in our state,” said Arkansas Blue Cross President and CEO Curtis Barnett. “What better way than to help 75 schools provide a safe space where their students can decompress and learn healthy coping skills that will last them a lifetime.” In conjunction with its 75th anniversary, Arkansas Blue Cross has also trained nearly 900 people in communities across Arkansas in Mental Health First Aid, surpassing its goal of 750. Construction of the calming room will be complete by May 2024.
18 News
November 15, 2023
Grand Illusion Theatre holding two sets of auditions Submitted by Tim Hesse
The Grand Illusion Theatre at Mena Mountain Resort will be holding two sets of auditions in December. The first call is for comedy skits or musical performance auditions, taking place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2. They are seeking individuals with hidden talents to perform at the New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31. Dewayne Hodges will be the featured performer and will provide musical entertainment from 9 p.m. to midnight. The other chosen acts, along with some karaoke from the audience, will be from 7-9 p.m. Karaoke will continue after midnight. Auditions for the play, “Love Among the Ruins”, to be performed in February, will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9 at
THE POLK COUNTY
2 p.m. Parts to be cast include: - 3 actors (1 male and 2 females) able to play characters from 65-75. - 1 male actor able to play 25-35. - 5 actors (male or female) able to play characters 30-60. In addition to actors, anyone interested in lighting, sound, props, costumes or backstage work are welcome to attend the auditions. If you are unfamiliar with “Love Among the Ruins,” The film version starring Sir Lawrence Olivier is available on YouTube. Rehearsals will start Jan. 2 and the show will be performed in a dinner theater setting on Feb. 9 and 10. Please call the Resort at 479-3943110 with any questions.
Pulse
HORSES Her sister wasn’t the only one who had continued from page 1 plans to be a vet. “I was gonna be a vet.
at Pilot Point, Texas. I’ve been shipping her up here. She’s our official vet for the rescue now. So very exciting.” The Instagram videos with Stoudt speaking on the foals are in Texas. Olivieri said, “She took three babies with her that were the sickest. She does a 24-hour monitor and checks blood levels and all the things I can’t do on the front tier on the ranch. “Cameron’s actually a family friend. My sister [Bettina] is a vet and Cameron and her, are alumni over in OSU, and that’s how I know Cameron. And they’re also, just because they’re in sports medicine, they have a cutting-edge facility so they’re able to really do a lot of things that it’s a little bit tougher to get from local vets, you know? “But I still work with everybody. I still work with Randy and PETA over at the Ouachita [Equine Clinic] horse clinic there. Yeah. So, I get vitamin bags from them. I get a lot of medicines that I need quickly from them. So, we all work out together, you know, it’s just who, who has access to what? Animals and causes The actor’s love goes well beyond horses and isn’t just a spur of the moment fascination. She has a history of attending events such as the Genesis Awards, which are annually awarded by the Humane Society of the United States to individuals in the news and entertainment media for producing outstanding works that raise public awareness of animal issues. She also supports conservation groups, or the Environmental Media Association, and groups such as Global Green USA for a sustainable earth. Then there are the groups to support cancer research or others for helping people in faraway places. As a matter of fact, she’s slated to be heading to India on horseback this coming weekend as she joins Relief Riders International to help deliver healthcare and spread goodwill to underserved populations in India. Several years ago, she reportedly told Marie Claire magazine, “I will stop my car if there’s a stray animal along the side of the road. I’ve spent hours trying to catch lost dogs wearing collars so I can help people get their pets back.”
I actually started my journey in pre-med and that is what I wanted to do. And then I made a pivot because I had this realization while I was in college and I thought, you know, I just love having animals and I don’t wanna always be surrounded by all the sick ones and the dying ones. Look at me now, the same thing I didn’t wanna do and now I’m just a frontline doctor in a way. And I’m surrounded by sick ones, I guess. But it’s got a path for you.” “I’ve always rehabbed animals, from squirrels to skunks to you name it. If there was something hurting, I was like, I can fix it. Let me figure it out, you know, and being that I’m surrounded — my sister being a vet, my mom being a nurse — we have a very medical-centric family. “I was always the one exploring herbal medicines and just other ways of curing things,” Olivieri said. “I always had the backup of the antibiotics and the heavier drugs that go to the pharmaceuticals and the animal industry. But I always wanted to try to do it the natural way and figure out how things moved. I have a very holistic way of maybe deucing sickness and my family has always been doing that. Nobody in my family runs a full-on rescue at all, but we do piecemeal, you know, like one animal will show up and we’ll fix that baby and then we’ll rehome it just like probably a lot of people do. “When you’re doing that all the time, you kind of have to learn how to do things yourself because none of us can afford the vet bills every single time a stray shows up and you gotta figure a doctor or something, or, especially when you run a ranch and you’ve got 50-plus animals. “We have a different relationship. We’re gonna try to do it ourselves first. Then, if we get to a point where it’s beyond our pay grade, then we’re gonna outsource the aid. But, for me with the horses, I honestly didn’t even mean to do this. It was a total, I call it a pop-up rescue because the actors’ strike started. Our union is striking still even now.” At the time of the interview, the strike was still ongoing. Coincidentally, it ended Nov. 9, the day she was livestreaming in the rain. [Ed. Read Part 2 of Olivieri’s interview in next week’s The Polk County Pulse.]
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
November 15, 2023
Football season ends for Bearcats and Lions By Ethan Nahté
Basketball
11/16 - Acorn vs. Mount Ida
Basketball
11/16 - Umpire vs. Kirby 11/17 - Umpire vs. Murfreesboro 11/17 - CRHS vs. De Queen
Basketball
11/14-11/18 - Mena Jr. Teams Nashville Tournament 11/18 - Mena vs. Waldron (7th boys/girls) 11/20 - Mena @ Bentonville West
Wrestling
11/17 - Mena Red & Black Scrimmage
Basketball
11/15 - Mount Ida @ Maumelle Charter 11/16 - Mount Ida @ Acorn
Both the Mena Bearcats and the Mount Ida Lions football teams have been eliminated in the first round of the 2023 Arkansas Centennial Bank State Playoffs last Friday night. Mena traveled a long way across Arkansas and north of West Memphis to take on the No. 1 Rivercrest Colts in 4A play. The return trip probably felt even longer after a 36-0 loss. The Bearcats beat the Waldron Bulldogs for the 28th straight time on Nov. 3, bumping the Bull-dogs and sending themselves to the playoffs for a record-setting sixth season in a row. They took on Rivercrest as the No. 5 seed. The Bearcats ended their season 5-6 overall. In 2A play, No. 1 seed Bigelow beat No. 4 seed Mount Ida 41-13. Bigelow will play Des Arc in the second round. The lions trailed 28-6 after the first quarter. Bigelow would tally another 13 in the third while Mount Ida would score another 7 in the final quarter. The Lions ended their season 3-7 overall. Single elimination tournament. The championships are scheduled to be played Dec. 1. A few of the other schools from the western part of Arkansas to advance to the second round this coming Friday include Murfreesboro, Nashville, Mansfield, Jessieville, and Ashdown.
Sports 19
Red and Black wrestling scrimmage on Friday
By Ethan Nahté
The Mena wrestling team will kick off their second season this Friday with the “Red and Black” scrimmage at Mena Middle School’s Jim Rackley Gym, 6 p.m., Nov. 17. They will have a donation jar to help raise money for some travel suits. They invite the public to come out and
watch boys and girls wrestling. For those unfamiliar with the gym, it is located on Dallas Avenue between the middle school’s main building and the high school. The Pulse also conducted an interview with head wrestling coach Zen Valencia before the 2023-2024 school season began. Watch for it in an upcoming issue of the paper.
Mena head wrestling coach Zen Valencia looks on as wrestlers battle to see who can pin the other in practice. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
20 News
November 15, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
