Polk County Pulse - September 13, 2023

479.243.9600

By Ethan Nahté

Saturday morning’s sun rose an obscured ball of light struggling to penetrate the veil of fog. The opaque curtain emulated smoke to some degree, although all a singular gray not as thick and changing as black smoke in a structure fire.

The fog was also much easier to breathe in than being trapped within a burning structure… or being a rescuer entering into the searing flames and strangling smoke to try and save a life.

This particular Saturday morning

brought to mind the events most of the USA witnessed as the North Tower of the World Trade Center complex burned, a massive plume of black smoke roiling into the morning sky on Sept. 11, 2001 after being hit by American Airlines Flight 11. Sixteen minutes later, many of us watched the second airliner, United Airlines Flight 175, smash into the South Tower.

On that fateful day nearly 3,000 people died; civilians and flight crews in the airliners; office workers in the towers or the Pentagon; people in the streets; the passengers who brought

Art of the Heartland reception

By Ethan Nahté

A wonderful night of art, hors d’oeuvres and a musical family of a father playing piano with two young sons, one performing on violin as the other played cello to a gallery filled with artists and art lovers made for a pleasant evening. The event was the Saturday evening reception for the Ninth Annual Art of the Heartland (AHL) National Competition at the Mena Art Gallery.

The competition drew artists from all over the country, working in a variety of art mediums and representing a wide range of eras and representations of what the heartland evoked from the minds and hands of

A Mena Firefigher salutes the flag at the end of the ladder as he begins the Memorial Stair Climb. . (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Lee Alban’s oil painting “Two Cookie Buy In” won Best in Show. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

MEMORIAL

continued from page 1 down the fourth airliner, United Airlines Flight 93, before it could reach the United States Capitol; and the rescuers — 343 firefighters, 72 law enforcement and eight EMS providers. More than 8,600 firefighters answered the call. Some had just finished 24-hour shifts. Some were about to retire. Some never got to tell their families goodbye. Thousands more were injured in what is described as the deadliest terrorist attack in human history. It is the deadliest incident for both firefighters and law enforcement personnel in U.S. history, all conveyed by 19 terrorists reportedly linked to Al-Qaeda and to Osama bin Laden.

In 2022, Mena Fire Department, Mena Police Department and Southwest EMS held the first Memorial Stair Climb to honor those victims. They invited other fire departments, law enforcement, and EMS teams, as well as the general public to join them in 2023.

Many of them donned their full gear, oxygen tanks and some even carried a Halligan tool, which has a claw, blade and a tapered pick for breaking down doors and other inaccessible areas during an emergency situation.

Coincidentally, the First Deputy Chief Hugh Halligan of the New York Fire Department (FDNY) designed the bar in 1948. One firefighter wearing full gear Saturday morning said that all of the apparatus averages out to an additional 110 pounds they are carrying.

Several people were in attendance at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium, some to watch and 14 to participate. One or

two who participated last year were injured and unable to climb this year, but they came to support their “family.” Four trucks sat like sentries in the thick fog, with one ladder truck extending into the sky with the Old Glory hanging from the tip, faintly waving with a wisp of breeze. Patriot Day was only two days away, observed on Sept. 11. This climb was a tribute to that day and those people.

The morning began with Mena Fire Chief Steve Egger explaining what they were about to do. “We’re going to start you with three, three-second blasts from the fire truck. We’ve got the Vincent family here for the Ben Vincent Volunteer Firefighter Memorial Foundation… kind of our VIPs for the day. They’re trying to do lots of good things to honor Ben Vincent that many of us know as an outstanding guy in the community. We do have a donation boot there. Feel free to make a donation.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

“When you get through with your

climb, at whatever point, come over and ring the bell.”

Egger then asked firefighter Wes Kimp if he had anything to say. “It gets rough after a little bit with all of this

continued on page 7

(Photo by Steven Stout)

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On the July 24, 2023, the evening news aired a story about the U.S. Government suing Gov. Abbot and the state of Texas over floating barriers and razor wire deployed at their border in an effort to stop the flow of illegal immigrants.

Gov. Abbot takes the position that, since our government is not doing their job to enforce existing border laws, that Texas has a right to protect its sovereign borders. The justice department’s position is that Texas does not have that right on the Rio Grande River.

This is where listening to the spin exposes media bias. The news was quick to say it forces immigrants to deeper water and danger as a result. While this is true, the obvious answer is when you break the law, it is hard to find a viable argument that it is somehow the fault of Texas when they try to defend against your illegal activity.

As I listened it almost seemed the media took the position that the illegal immigrants had every right to enter unimpeded. The barriers are clearly visible and can be seen before entering the water, so if you enter you do so at your own risk. It seems the danger is self-inflicted. There are legal ways to enter this country that pose no dangers.

The White House press secretary was on board with the media in painting a criminal act in a way to elicit sympathy for the illegal immigrants, calling the barriers “inhumane.” I fail to see the difference in harm done to

Want to share your opinion?

criminals who cut themselves on broken glass after smashing a window to break into your home. The glass was a barrier to keep out many things, including those criminals.

Gov. Abbot may not get re-elected for positions he is taking but I applaud his commitment to keeping his state safe no matter the heat it brings down on him personally. There is a saying that goes “if you do not stand for something, you will fall for anything”.

To be clear, I am not against immigration done legally. It is the illegal part I take exception to.

In past letters I have said to you if you read a story or watch the news and have questions or feel you are being played, then good for you as you are paying attention. For too long we have not paid attention and have been run over and lied to as we failed to ask the questions we needed to ask. As a result, the truth often eludes reporting. I ask you to please ask questions and watch what goes on around you and in our republic. It has never been more important.

As always, I thank you for a forum to express my thoughts peacefully, though at times we may disagree.

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

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Constitution Week proclamation for 2023

Submitted by Kathy Hagler

Mena Mayor Seth Smith proclaimed Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week. Members of the James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR, looked on as Mayor Smith signed the proclamation.This is the Constitution’s 236th anniversary.

The aim of Constitution Week is to emphasize citizens’ responsibilities for protecting and defending the Constitution, inform people that the Constitution is the basis for America’s great heritage, and to encourage the study of the historical events which led to the framing of the Constitution in Sept. 1787. The Constitution is America’s most important document. It stands as a testament to the determination of Americans throughout history to maintain their liberties,

freedoms and unalienable rights.

The observation of Constitution Week began in 1955, when the Daughters of the American Revo-

lution petitioned Congress to set aside Sept. 1723 as an annual week-long observance commemorating the history and importance of the Constitution, and bringing attention to how it still serves us today. The public is encouraged to help celebrate the signing of the U.S. Con-

1787, after the delegates reached an agreement and emerged from Independence Hall. James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR, encourages individuals, churches, businesses and organizations to unite at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17 to ring a bell for one minute.

Daughters of the American Revolution is a 134-year- old service organization dedicated to historic preservation, education and patriotism. DAR members come from a variety of backgrounds and interests, but all share a common bond of having an ancestor who helped contribute to securing the independence of the United States of America. Any woman aged 18 or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible to join. For more information,

stitution by participating in Bells Across America, an annual celebration in which participants gather to ring bells, much as the church bells of Philadelphia rang out on Sept. 17,

contact Carolyn Hannah at carolynhannah@gmail.com or Dotty Kinnun at thekinnuns@gmail.com. For additional information about DAR and its relevant mission, visit dar.org.

Mayor Seth Smith having signed the Constitution Week Proclamation with members of the James K. Polk Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in attendance. (Submitted photo)

The James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR, presented an educational display and handouts to the Polk County Library. Assistant Librarian Traci Hostetler is pictured with some of the chapter ladies. (Submitted photo)

The 94th General Assembly will convene for a special session on Monday, September 11 at 11 a.m.

In the call for the session, the Governor outlines several proposals to be introduced including tax cuts, amending the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act, and legislation addressing vaccine mandates.

The tax cut proposal to be introduced would reduce the top personal income tax rate from 4.7% to 4.4%. It would reduce the corporate income tax rate from 5.1% to 4.8%.

In addition, the proposal would provide an income tax credit of $150 to taxpayers making less than $90,000 annually. The credit would be retroactive to January 1, 2023.

The General Assembly will also consider legislation to transfer $710 million in existing surplus funds to the Arkansas Reserve Fund.

The Governor’s call directs the General Assembly to consider legislation amending the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act of 1967.

Changes listed in the call include adding protections regarding security for the Governor, the General Assembly, and constitutional officers.

The call also lists adding protections for the deliberative process and attorney-client privilege of state-level entities.

Another item to be considered in this special session will be legislation to prohibit Arkansas public entities from mandating COVID-19 vaccines or vaccines for variants. The proposed legislation will also require the Arkansas Department of Health to maintain publicly available information on the risks of COVID-19 vaccines.

The special session is expected to adjourn on Wednesday, September 13.

All committee meetings and House floor proceedings will be livestreamed and archived at arkansashouse.org. The House website also includes links to the legislation being considered.

Thanks to a Senate bill that became law earlier this year, thousands of Arkansas students will qualify for free lunches at school.

Act 656 of 2023 was approved by an overwhelming majority of senators. It benefits children from families with low incomes by eliminating the requirement that they pay a reduced price for lunch. Instead, lunch is free.

If their family income is below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, children qualify for free meals. That equates to an income of $39,000 for a family of four.

Children in a family of four qualify for reduced priced meals if their income is more than $39,000 but less than $55,550 a year. That is between 130 percent and 185 percent of the federal poverty level. The maximum amount that schools may charge for a reduced priced lunch is 40 cents.

During the height of the Covid pandemic school meals were free to all students due to waivers in federal nutrition regulations. Those waivers have expired and schools are returning to the guidelines that were in place before the pandemic. Some parents need a reminder that they need to apply in order for their children to qualify for free lunches.

The application is free and the paperwork isn’t difficult to fill out. Although the school year has already begun, it’s not too late to apply. In fact, a family can apply midway through the school year if their financial situation changes. School officials are required to keep your financial information confidential.

Once the application is approved, nothing about the children’s menu will change. They still will able to

choose from the same menu options as students who pay full fare for meals.

There are additional benefits for applying. Students from low-income families may qualify for lower fees on college applications, and lower fees for taking standardized tests like Advanced Placement exams and college entrance tests like the ACT and the SAT. Some schools lower the fees that may be charged for participating in athletics and other varsity activities.

Last year about 46,000 students in Arkansas qualified for reduced-priced meals. There are about 477,000 students in Arkansas schools from kindergarten through grade twelve.

Under Act 656, the state Education Department shall report every year to legislators on the Senate and House Education Committees by November 15. The report shall be an overview of the state’s school nutrition programs, with figures on how many children are approved and how many are denied free lunches.

Legislative auditors will audit the state’s school nutrition program by December 15, 2023, to determine the extent of school districts’ participation in free lunch programs.

Revenue Report

During the first two months of the state fiscal year, tax revenue came in at 3.2 percent above forecast. That amounts to about $33.2 million more than predicted by state budget officials. Net revenues in all categories were above forecast. The increase in sales tax revenue was driven by purchases of motor vehicles, spending at restaurants and sales of retail items.

The state fiscal year began on July 1. We are now in Fiscal Year 2024.

John Maddox Terry Rice

Robyn

Lori Hirshfield

-

Tice Robyn “Cricket” Lori Hirshfield-Tice, age 57, died on Monday, September 4, 2023, at the Fayetteville Health and Rehabilitation Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She was born on Monday, January 10, 1966, to Barry Jay Hirshfield and Ellen Maureen Engel Hirshfield in Brooklyn, New York.

Robyn loved to gather with her family around the dinner table and she loved Chinese food. As far as music goes, 80’s rock was her jam. She was a die-hard fan of Bon Jovi, Kiss, Yanni and many others of that iconic era. Her love for music was a testament to her youthful spirit and vivacious personality.

Television held a special place in Robyn’s heart, with her favorite shows being “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Big Brother.” Date nights were spent with the love of her life, Mark, watching “Below Deck.”

Her taste in film was just as refined. “Ghost,” “What Dreams May Come,” and “Titanic” were some of the movies that captivated her the most.

In her leisure time, she enjoyed playing poker and cards. Her competitive spirit was evident in those moments, mixed with her infectious laughter and witty remarks.

Robyn had an artistic flare that she often expressed through doing her nails and crafting homemade Christmas gifts. This love of arts and crafts not only revealed her creativity but also her thoughtful nature

and dedication to personalizing her expressions of love. Her favorite colors, pink and purple, beautifully represented her vibrant and nurturing spirit.

As a person, Robyn was best described as witty, a great listener, nurturer, and protector. She was known for her wise and soothing words, often saying, “It’s just a snowflake, not an avalanche,” to imply that no problem was too big to overcome. She was a stalwart believer in God’s presence in her life and cherished her relationship with the Lord.

The center of Robyn’s world was her boys. She loved them with all her heart and was always there to protect them, adhering to her firm belief in never giving up and to love her kids unconditionally. Her love for them was endless, as was her capacity to nurture their dreams and aspirations.

Robyn Tice will be forever remembered as a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her lessons of love, determination, and faith will continue to inspire her loved ones for generations.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Ellen Maureen Engel Hirshfield.

Robyn is survived by her father, Barry Jay Hirshfield of Salem, Ohio; her husband, Mark Tice of Mena; four sons and daughter-in-law, Andrew Marino of Vineland, New Jersey, James K. Hirshfield of Mena, Micheal Sterner of Mena, Brandon and Alexandra Zacarias of Springdale; three sisters, Eve Berg of California, Melissa Jo Lane of Mena, Lorajean and Kevin Keith of Winterpark, Florida; four grandchildren, Lacelynn Sterner, Aaliyah Lori

Rae Hirshfield, Emma Zacarias, and Greyson Zacarias; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service was held on Friday, September 8, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas, with Dr. Lamar Austin officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Visitation was general on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at Bowser Family Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will be Mark Tice, Andrew Marino, James Hirshfield, Micheal Sterner, Brandon Zacarias, and Lee Bidnick.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh. com

for motorcycles and enjoyed riding around the country with his wife and many friends.

Jim is survived by his wife Michaela; Son, Sean (Patty) McAllister, Daughters, Brenda (Scott) Jones, Shannon (Ray) Hunter, Stepchildren; Charles (Valerie) Romero, Mark (Colleen) Romero, Chris Romero, Grandchildren; Connor McAllister, Fischer McAllister, Tyler (Tyler) Jones, Tanner (Sarah) Jones, Breanna (Nick) Lyle, Hattie Hunter, AnnaBeth Hunter, Jack Hunter, Tate Hunter, Alyssa (Nathan) Davis, Brendan Adamson, Valerie (Mike) Cork; fourteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his late wife Nada McAllister, daughter, MaryKay Adamson, brother Willam Oscar ‘Mac’ McAllister and sister in-law Fran McAllister.

James (Jim) A. McAllister, 80, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away

Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at home surrounded by his family. He was born January 14, 1943, to Clarance ‘Slim’ and Maxine McAllister in Longview, Texas.

Jim worked as an Engineer until his retirement in 2008 and moved back to his childhood hometown, Mena, Arkansas, in 2011 where met his wife, Michaela. Jim had a passion for fishing and was in fishing clubs when he lived in Wilburton, Oklahoma. He won many fishing tournaments and received trophies and plaques for his wins. He left his talent and legacy of fishing to his son, Sean. Jim had a great love

A visitation was held Friday, September 1, 2023, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Bowser Funeral Home Chapel. Services were held Saturday, September 2, 2023, at 2:00 pm, at First Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Donnie Jewell officiating and interment to follow at Mt. Gilead Cemetery.

The pallbearers are Tyler Jones, Tanner Jones, Nick Lyle, Conner McAllister, Fischer McAllister, Eric Harris and Kaleb Harris. Honorary pallbearers are Jim’s many friends.

Arrangements are under the direction of Thornton Funeral Home in Mt. Ida. Guest register at www. thorntonfh.com.

James (Jim) A. McAllister

Velda Spencer

Velda passed away peacefully 8/31/23 in Hot Springs, AR. Velda was born November 20th, 1938, in Everett, Washington, to Othel Moses and Ella Myree Gilliam. She graduated from Bonner Springs, Kansas, and went to marry Dale Clinton Spencer in 1960 in Ottawa, Kansas.

Mrs. Spencer then came to Arkansas where she moved around following her husband’s Engineering Career and working as a housewife to raise her 3 children; living in Little Rock, Fort Smith, Hope and finally residing in Mena where she will forever be remembered.

Velda was an outgoing mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and bonus family member to many. She had a huge personality and was never afraid to let it shine. She loved to watch people, which was one of her favorite things about being in the Cottages. She would be the first person at your door in any time of need, no matter if she knew you or not.

She loved antiquing and bargain hunting and was always on the hunt for that perfect Magical gift. She made friends with anyone and everyone the minute she met them. Velda absolutely loved reading, spending time with people, and laughing. She was unique in so many ways, and left an imprint everywhere she went, whether it was through that powerful Este Lauder perfume or that abundant laugh. Velda grew up Catholic and went

back to her Catholic roots over and over again throughout the years, she loved hearing Gods word and didn’t care which church she went to in order to hear it. So many stories of this woman will be retold for years and years to come. To know her, is to love her.

Survivors include her Son Mike Spencer and wife Roberta. Daughter Tyra Alley and Husband Richard. Grandson Matthew Goodner, Granddaughter Nikki Ferguson and husband Kyle with great-grandchildren Emma, Anna, Brynlee, Skylar, Moses and Evelyn, Grandson Chase Alley and wife Rhiannon with great-grandchildren Fletcher and Phoebe. Grandson Heath Spencer.

Preceded in Death by Husband D.C. Spencer, daughter Jacqueline Myree Spencer, and sister Evelyn Rentko with husband John. And her parents Ella Brotherton Gilliam and Othel Gilliam.

Mrs. Spencer was sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Thomas William Townsend

In memory of Thomas William Townsend, April 8, 1959-August 23, 2023.

Tom lived in the Mena area for 40-plus years. He was a staple of the Shady Community. Tom made many friends from coast to coast in his travels for work. He is survived by his four sons and eight grandchildren.

Tom was loved and will be missed.

MEMORIAL

weight on. It’s six rows, 18 times. It’s about two stories for each one.”

continued from page 2 ly could be the grandmother of many of the climbers. She she climbed a full extra lap before taking her turn to ring the bell.

To honor those who fell, they are climbing 110 flights of stairs, equal to 2,200 steps that rescuers had climbed to try and rescue anyone they could before the second tower took them all down. Matthew Stout unofficially became the one keeping track of how many laps they had made.

His father, newly-retired police officer Steven Stout, said a prayer, which in part he said, “Give them safety as they climb these stairs in honor of those who fell.”

The three blaring blasts cut through the fog and silence. Firefighters; a police officer; members of Ben Vincent’s family, some who are firefighters; and members of the general public began the climb. Their ages ranged from teenager to Betty Sobeski, who is 75-yearsyoung.

Like last year, about a third to halfway through the climb, tanks, helmets and turnout coats began coming off. Many of these people workout regularly and are built for stamina and accustomed to the heat and burden. The climb test one’s mettle.

The climb takes 30-45 minutes. 14 began and 11 finished, ringing the bell on a table decorated with memorabilia, including a plaque with a piece of the rubble from the towers that stays on display at the Mena Fire Department in memory of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. There was also a boot for the Vincent Memorial.

When Sobeski finished, she proudly went over and clanged the bell. She is not related to any of the firefighters or other participants. She simply was showing her support. She had already been walking laps around the track before the Memorial Climb. Sobeski wasn’t wearing all of the fire gear, but she is quite a bit shorter than most of the other stair climbers, and definite-

“I walk, run and do strength training,” she said afterwards. She also competes. After the interview, Sobeski took off jogging around the track a few more times before being stopped and asked to join in the group photo.

Vincent family

Meanwhile, catching their breath, some of Ben’s family was busy stripping their gear and drinking cold water.

Ben’s brother Levi Vincent and sister-in-law Jessica, both with White Hall Fire Department, were part of the Vincent family who came to climb. They had a dual purpose for coming halfway across the state.

Levi said, “We just wanted to say thank you to everybody at the Mena Fire Department for supporting the people who lost their life in 9/11 —

reasons. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

honoring that memory. Also because of Ben. We miss him every day. They got to work with him every day. He’s the reason why we are firefighters.

“We tried to find a way to honor Ben’s memory. We formed the Benjamin Tyler Vincent Memorial Volunteer Firefighter Memorial Foundation. Basically, our goal is to award a volunteer firefighter of the year in Ben’s name

Levi Vincent climbing for two

Note changes for the 2023 Quilt Show

Submitted by Joyce Sanden

Attention all quilters. Please remember the change announced during last year’s Ouachita Quilt Show about required hanging sleeves on quilts beginning with the 2023 quilt show.

“How to” training to add a quick and temporary quilt hanging sleeve is set for Sept. 25 with two free sessions to choose from. The first class is at 1 p.m. with a second session at 6 p.m. Both are in the education building at the Polk County Extension, 211 DeQueen St., Mena.

You can bring your quilt or just stop by for the lesson. Any handout created will be posted on the Ouachita Quilt Show Facebook page.

Wondering why we made this change? Most quilt shows require hanging sleeves. Safety concerns were not only for the safety of those climbing ladders to hang and take down the show, but also for the quilts themselves. With dozens of straight pins used to hang two quilts on the opposing sides of a fabric panel that was them hoisted up so both quilts could hang from one pole, damage could have occurred.

Rural America needs the Farm Bill

And, finally, we are all volunteers who should not have to spend unnecessary time to handle the event. We worked on this issue for nearly two years and found a solution that adds to the existing hanging system inventory.

Intake day for the quilt show is Tuesday, Oct. 31 from noon-5 p.m. at the Polk County Fairgrounds in Mena. If you haven’t added the hanging sleeve by then, we will have a work area where you can add onsite.

Don’t let the concept of adding a hanging sleeve deter you from learning how or for entering quilts. Even some of us who have quilted for decades have never added a hanging sleeve, this writer included. The hanging sleeve is not considered during judging. We are here to help.

Mark your calendar for Sept. 25 for the training, Oct. 31 for turning in quilts, and Nov. 3-4 for the 2023 Ouachita Quilt Show.

For more information about the hanging sleeves or the quilt show, please contact Joyce Sanden via text or message at 479-234-3414 or email joycesanden@hotmail.com with “quilt show” in the subject line.

By Sen. John Boozman

Urban areas make up only three percent of the entire land area of the country but are home to 80 percent of the U.S. population. The remaining 20 percent live in small rural communities that are scattered throughout 97 percent of America’s land mass. That percentage may further decrease in the coming years.

Census data backs up the trend. In Arkansas, over half of our 75 counties lost population in the last census. On a national level, 53 percent of counties across the country saw inhabitants leave.

Rural America’s difficulties in recent years are well documented. Trade wars, record-high inflation, breakdowns in supply chains and extreme weather events have combined to take a damaging toll on these communities.

Then the pandemic hit, bringing with it additional unprecedented challenges. Parents tried to keep up with their child’s schoolwork from home without internet access. Rural hospital administrators, who were already struggling to keep their doors open, had to continue to serve their communities during a health crisis of proportions unseen in our lifetime. Every rural resident struggled to find necessities at the few options they had for groceries within a 20-mile radius

Even before the pandemic, Americans had been leaving rural communities in large numbers for employment opportunities and the modern services and conveniences bigger metropolitan areas offer.

This exodus is not healthy for our country. If one part of America is not living up to its potential, then all of America is held back.

When urban populations have so much influence and proximity to authority, how do we ensure that Americans living outside these areas aren’t

left behind?

The Farm Bill is an excellent place to start. While discussions on this vital legislation often focus on the agriculture safety net and nutrition components, its rural development programs allow the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide loans and grants that can help build communities from the ground up.

These USDA initiatives will help modernize rural America’s infrastructure. Long gone are the days where infrastructure discussion was focused solely on three “r’s” --roads, rails and runways. In order to bring rural America into the 21st century, we must increase broadband internet access and make improvements to water systems in rural communities.

The Farm Bill will help deploy high-speed broadband to millions of households that are truly unserved. The opportunity cost of leaving rural Americans behind in the digital divide without access to telehealth, online learning, e-commerce, precision agriculture and more, is simply too great to ignore.

Similarly, many rural communities, due to lack of population density and lack of economies of scale, do not have resources to build, maintain and operate safe and reliable drinking and wastewater services. A community’s chances of attracting new private investment are slim without this critical infrastructure, and the Farm Bill can help ensure small towns can complete these water projects.

Clearly, this legislation is about more than just growing food. It is about growing rural America. The infrastructure programs it funds will allow new businesses, with well-paying jobs, to sprout around our family farms, ranches and forests that provide our food, fuel and fiber. This reality is why I am committed to help rural America flourish by passing the next Farm Bill in the coming months.

each artist.

continued from page 1

Some artist had several thoughts on the subject and consequently had multiple pieces in the show. Artist Henry Moreno, who was this year’s judge, mentioned his upcoming birthday this week, turning 87. The purpose for his mentioning the birthday was that he admired the work and how far JoeRay Kelley had come… and that you’re never too old to paint.

Kelley, 90, did not begin to paint until he was retired from the military. He began at the age of 65, self-taught, and he had eight pieces in this show, two of which were bestowed an honorable mention. Kelley said about the only artistic experience he had prior to that was the fact he spent several decades as a meteorologist while in the military, drawing maps, wind

currents and such. Definitely nothing that would come close to being fine

art. He practically traveled throughout quite a bit of the world during his

career. Now, he paints as a form of relaxation and therapy, claiming he paints practically every day.

A few other winners were present. Some of those artists also had multiple pieces in the show. Hopefully the winners’ list as well as the People’s Choice Award will be in next week’s issue of The Pulse.

Before the evening was through, Moreno was surprised by a rendition of “Happy Birthday” and a tray of cupcakes with candles brought out to celebrate his birthday a few days early.

You don’t have to wait to see who the winners were. The Gallery, located at 607 Mena St., is open from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday. There are plenty of outstanding paintings and you can view them all for free, although a donation here and there would be appreciated.

Artist JoeRay Kelley (left) shakes hands with artist and show judge Henry R. Moreno in front of two of Kelley’s pieces: “Sweat Her Girl” and “Boy With a Big Understanding.” (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Polk County’s Revolutionary War connection Blackstock’s defeat

Submitted by Kathy Hagler

Blackstock’s Defeat is also known as Battle of Blackstock’s Farm, Blackstock’s Hill and Blackstock’s. This battle took place on Nov.20, 1780, near Cross Anchor, South Carolina. Banastre Tarleton was in command of the British; Thomas Sumter commanded the Patriots.

After the defeat of Major Patrick Ferguson and the destruction or capture of his entire military force at the Battle of Kings Mountain the previous month, the Patriots were gaining more and more control of the sparsely settled Carolina Backcountry.

Because of this, the British commander of the Southern theater, Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis, ordered Lieutenant Colonel Tarleton to abandon his chase of the Patriot guerrilla commander, Brigadier General Francis Marion, and begin disrupting the activities of Patriot militia Brigadier General Sumter. It was hoped that this would return confidence to the Backcountry Torries. However, Sumter had been gathering volunteers and now had a thousand men under his command.

On Nov. 18, some of Sumter’s raiders caught Tarleton’s British Legion dragoons and the mounted infantry of the 63rd Regiment, bathing and watering their horses on the Broad River. When Sumter’s men fired on the British, the British brought up a 3-pounder “grasshopper” field gun and returned fire, scattering the Patriots.

Tarleton put his men across the river on flat boats that night, pressing Sumter hard the next day. Fortunately for Sumter, a deserter from the 63rd Regiment revealed Tarleton’s location and plans.

Although Sumter had a thousand Backcountry volunteers, Tarleton had more than 500 regulars under his command and had never been defeated. Sumter and his colonels decided to find a strong defensive position and wait for Tarleton to attack them.

Colonel Thomas Brandon suggested the nearby farm of William Blackstock, a homestead on the hills above the Tyger River. The land had been cleared, providing fields of fire, and the outbuildings — solid log structures — were not chinked, providing “narrow but convenient openings for men firing from behind cover.”

Colonel Henry Hampton and his South Carolina riflemen were placed in the farm’s outbuildings. Other men were stationed behind stout fences and the surrounding woods. Tarleton came up late in the afternoon and chose to make a frontal attack against superior numbers, not waiting for his infantry and ar-

tillery to catch up.

At first, he was successful, as the Patriot militia fired from too great a distance. Before they could reload, Major John Money, commanding the 63rd Regiment, hit them with the bayonet. In doing so, the 63rd came under fire from Hampton’s men, as usual “aiming for epaulets and stripes.” Money and two of his lieutenants were killed, as well as a third of the privates. Other Patriots worked their way around the right flank of the British and attacked Tarleton’s dragoons who were in their saddles but had not yet joined the battle.

When he realized the battle was going against him, Tarleton ordered an uphill calvary charge against riflemen firing from cover. So many dragoons were knocked from their horses that “the road to the Ford was blocked by the bodies of men and fallen chargers, the wounded, still targets, struggling back over their stricken comrades and kicking, screaming horses.”

Sumter moved into position to watch the British withdrawal and members of the 63rd fired a volley at him and his officers. Sumter was severely wounded and had to hand over command to Colonel John Twiggs.

Tarleton retreated two miles to await his reinforcements, planning for another attack the next morning; but Twiggs had left campfires burning and left under the cover of darkness. Tarleton’s men buried the dead from both sides, claiming that only 51 of his men were killed

Although Major-General Nathanael Greene suffered some defeats and near victories, he also had some victories and slowly took control of the Southern theatre.

or wounded. However, a contemporary American account claimed 92 killed and up to 100 injured on the British side, and 3 killed, 4 wounded and 50 captured on the Patriot side.

Tarleton made much of Sumter’s wounding in his report to Cornwallis, lying that he had broken and dispersed the Americans. In fact, Tarleton, one of the most feared and hated commanders of the Backcountry, had been beaten for the first time — and his regulars were beaten by Patriot militia.

Even the wounding of Sumter proved to be in the interest of the Patriots; it allowed George Washington to appoint Nathanael Greene, a better strategist, to command the Southern theater.

Stay tuned for future articles that tie these battles to Polk County.

By Richie Lawry

It has been 50 years since I graduated from high school, but I can still remember the first day of my senior year. I sometimes have trouble remembering past events, but this day is still in sharp focus. As I found a seat in Mr. Brost’s history class, the most beautiful girl I’d ever seen walked into the classroom.

Her blonde curls took my breath away as she walked into class that morning. But I was too shy to talk to girls, so I knew she’d never be a part of my life other than being admired from across the room. As I tried to bring my focus back to Mr. Brost standing at the front of the room, I heard him say something about a learning packet. “What is a learning packet?” I wondered. Mr. Brost went on to explain. He’d choose five students to produce a weekly learning packet for the other students.

Mr. Brost picked five students who would meet in the library instead of coming to class. They’d review the following week’s history lessons and produce additional materials to help the students learn. When Mr. Brost picked the five students, I was chosen along with the beautiful girl with the golden curls. There’d be no way I could avoid talking to her.

Meeting with the history learning packet group in a room just off the library was my favorite part of school. We didn’t work very hard and spent most of our time hanging out and visiting. The library stored audio-visual equipment, including a record player, in the room where we met. Occasionally, I’d bring a record, and we’d listen to it.

One day, I brought an album I’d recently purchased. It was unlike anything I’d heard before, and I wanted to share it with the group. The album was”Uncle Charlie and His Dog Teddy” by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. The interview with Uncle Charlie, as an album cut where he tells his life story, was unprecedented on any pop or rock album I’d ever listened to. Uncle Charlie even gets his dog, Teddy, to sing. The traditional bluegrass sprinkled among

An Arkie’s Faith The Nitty Gritty

ty-gritty of the Bible is. What is the most important aspect? Great theologians could spend lifetimes discussing the idea, but there is a passage in the Bible that I think boils the message down to the nitty gritty. It is found in Philippians 2:6-10 (ICB)

“Christ himself was like God in everything. He was equal with God. But he did not think that being equal with God was something to be held on to. He gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born as a man and became like a servant. And when he was living as a man, he humbled himself and was fully obedient to God.

“He obeyed even when that caused his death — death on a cross. So God raised Christ to the highest place. God made the name of Christ greater than every other name. God wants every knee to bow to Jesus — everyone in heaven, on earth, and under the earth.”

the country rock songs was refreshing and the first bluegrass music I’d ever heard. There was even a piece of classical music played on the banjo. I wanted my friends to listen to this music.

Not everyone was as excited about this eclectic album as I was, but the consensus was that our favorite song was “House at Pooh Corner.” While blending genres is commonplace today, it was revolutionary in 1970. The album “Uncle Charlie & His Dog Teddy” was equal parts country, bluegrass, folk, and rock.

Over the years, I’ve always listened to The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. From the “Will the Circle be Unbroken” album, with its focus on the legends of traditional bluegrass, to their more pop-oriented music of the late 70s and conquering country music radio during the mid80s, I’ve always enjoyed their music.

It seems the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is hard to pigeonhole into any one genre of music. The lyrics to their song, “Partners, Brothers and Friends,” explain it this way. “Well, I saw a story in the paper. Suddenly, the band’s big news. The critics all like our records just fine, but they seem a bit confused.

Is it folk or rock or country? Seems like everybody cares but us. So just leave us an early wake-up call so we don’t miss the bus.”

When I learned that Nitty Gritty Dirt Band would be in concert at Oaklawn Casino in Hot Springs, I purchased tickets for myself and the beautiful girl from history class. I couldn’t believe that I’d be able to hear them in concert. When the day finally came, I wasn’t disappointed. It was one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to.

As I sat in the audience, waiting for the concert to begin, there was a large Nitty Gritty Dirt Band logo projected onto the screen at the back of the stage, and I wondered where the name came from. I took my phone out of my pocket and did a bit of research.

The dictionary meaning of nitty-gritty is “the most important aspects or practical details of a subject or situation.” The dirt in the band’s name means “soil of the earth.” Many critics feel that The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band was instrumental in forming Americana and Roots music.

As I thought about the meaning of nitty-gritty, I wondered what the nit-

In poetic form, this passage summarizes the gospel story. Although Jesus was equal with God the Father in his divine nature, he chose to empty himself of his divine rights and become a human. Jesus, though he was a king, became a humble servant and died the humiliating death of crucifixion for the forgiveness of our sins.

Philippians chapter 2 is a microcosm of the story and teachings of Jesus — the nitty gritty. The story of Jesus leads those who follow him to live humbly, showing love toward one another in a way that helps them live in harmony with one another. “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3,4 (ESV)

Gentle Reader, I can’t think of a more relevant paragraph to our fractured world than this. As Christians, how are we doing at living this out? Are we counting others more significant than ourselves and considering the needs of others more than our own? It’s the nitty-gritty of Jesus’ teachings.

Joke of the Week: I am quitting my job to go into archaeology. Now, my career is in ruins.

Jeff Hanna, lead singer and founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band performs at Oaklawn Casino Sunday evening. (Photo by Richie Lawry)

MEMORIAL

continued from page 7

ies that volunteer spirit.”

Tributes

each year in December. Ultimately, we would like to do a scholarship for a boy and a girl of a volunteer firefighter. That’s the goal. We’ll see how it turns out.

“We’re looking for guys who embody the spirit of being a volunteer and giving back to their community. Ben not only was with the fire department, he worked for the city, coached a little bit of everything, he officiated softball and basketball… . Somebody who embod-

Mena Police Sgt. Allen Walker took a moment to speak to the crowd. “I do want to say something about what we did here today. Climbing these stairs was indeed an honor. I remember sitting in the motor pool in the army watching those towers fall. I remember watching these officers… these firefighters… and these civilians dying. Every one of those guys, we were chomping at the bits to get over there — to go fight. It breaks my heart to watch our country in the way it’s going right now. You just don’t see that struggle to want to fight.

“The honor also comes from Ben. Why this means so much to me… even though my knee told me to quit… . I worked with Ben with the county road

department. I knew he had been in the military. We sat and talked a lot about it. Ben knew that my knees were bad. We were laying concrete one day. I had done everything I could, and my knee collapsed on me. I watched as Ben ran to me. Ben grabbed me and said, ‘Alan, you go over here and sit. If the boss comes by, I’ll talk to him. I’ll finish up your portion of the concrete. Ben did that for me. It was an honor to push whatever I could for Ben and all those people at 9/11. I didn’t do this for myself. I didn’t do this for bragging rights. I don’t care. I’ll do it anytime for Ben and those people at 9/11.”

Stout then walked over and held up Levi’s arm and pointed to his tattoo reading “No Greater Love.”

“No greater love,” Stout said. “That’s what y’all exhibit. We go toward the pain. We go toward the hurting. We go there selflessly because it’s what God put us to do. This is a calling, and you men and women have answered a calling that is beyond you.

“During COVID, a lot of people got to stay home. We didn’t. You didn’t. They say we’re essential. It’s like Alan

said, so many times we forget.

“That’s why this is important… so we remember. We live our lives through that remembrance. Remember that Jesus asked us to love one another as he loves us. There’s no greater love than to lay our lives down for someone else… someone we don’t know.”

“It was a very heartfelt moment,” Egger said. “I’m proud of the folks who have come out today representing law enforcement, EMS, fire service and the general public. We had representation from Potter Fire Department, White Hall and a couple of others and few members of the general public. I’m very proud for their support for coming out for the cause to honor those fallen during 9/11.”

Last year, after expressing how exhausted he and the other firefighters were, a sweaty Benjamin Vincent said to me, “We don’t have half a clue. They had to do it without oxygen at least most of the way up there. What they did was amazing… it’s unbelievable. They had to fight fire once they got up there. We ended up [walking] a little over 110 flights of stairs.”

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Not everyone could climb, but those who didn’t were with the climbers in spirit and cheered them on. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

The Joyce Butler Memorial Award 2023 recipients

Submitted by Jane Buttermilk

Rocking out in the woods

A quiet, wooded area — at least for this weekend — outside of Mena would not be a location where one might typically think of rocking out, but this isn’t what you might think it is. Instead of guitars and amplifiers, it’s stone against stone (or coral) and instead of the skins of a drumhead, it’s the furs and skins of trapped animals and some deer, although some of the hides probably can be utilized for making certain percussion instruments.

It was all distributed amongst

canopies and tents from several vendors at the Eighth Annual KnapIn at Ouachita Renegade Ranch off of Highway 88 just past Ink. It was modern craftsmen recreating and knapping stone tools of the past.

The free event included arts and crafts as well. There were also plenty of dreamcatchers, works of art making use of stone and other natural bits and pieces, jewelry, especially turquoise, and stories… a plentitude of stories.

Some stories came from the trappers and hunters.

Some came from diggers and collectors, who do not practice flint

The recipients of The Joyce Butler Memorial Award from the 2023 Polk County Fairhave been announced. The awards are for the most points in the category of Food Preservation. This year’s winners: Tristyn Raleigh Cogburn (youth 12 and under), Austin Fields (junior) and Michelle Ann Gilstrap (adult).

Tristyn Raleigh Cogburn (right)

Austin Fields (left)

Michelle Ann Gilstrap

Article and photos by Ethan Nahté

Come to the Veteran’s Expo

By Ethan Nahté

Come see what is available for veterans in Mena and all of Polk County. There will be a Veteran’s Expo at Mena First Assembly of God, 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Sept. 23. This will be a chance for veterans and families to discover what services and opportunities are in the Polk County area they may not be aware of.

The event is sponsored by VFW Post 4451. A few of the participating organizations include Polk County Bingo, We Are The 22, Mena Senior Center, Community Veterans Engagement Team Polk County (CVET), all military organizations and more.

Lifeline Service Dogs will also be

in attendance giving a live demonstration. These well-trained service dogs meet all Veteran Service Dog standards and requirements. The organization is dedicated to restor-

ing hope and independence to qualified veterans and children with a diagnosis that will allow their service dogs to make a huge and positive impact on their lives.

Local groups help Keep Arkansas Beautiful

Article and photos by

Ethan Nahté

Saturday was the start of the 2023 Great Arkansas Cleanup. Democratic Party of Polk County and Human Rights Mena teamed up and cleaned their newly designated Adopt-A-Highway mile. You might notice the new signs on Highway 71 just beyond the turn-in for Tapley Park and as drivers head into Mena, there is a sign just before the Hillcrest Baptist Church.

Six volunteers picked up with

Acting workshop has successful debut

mission is hosting a statewide video contest for high school students, grades nine-12, to create a 30-second video commercial.

The Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission is partnering with the

By Ethan Nahté

The Adult Acting Workshop at Mena Mountain Resort (MMR) had a successful “opening curtain” Saturday afternoon as a couple dozen people of various ages attended the free class.

Some attendees had prior acting experience while others wanted to see what the workshop was all about. A couple of people said that acting was on their bucket list, including one gentleman who is a cancer survivor.

Fort Smith International Film Festival and the Ozark Media Arts Festival to host this contest.

nine bags of trash, estimated at 150 pounds.

The event goes until October 31 as the Keep Arkansas Beautiful hopes to enlist all 75 Arkansas counties once more. There’s still time to sign up and choose an area to help keep The Natural State looking natural.

Statewide video contest

The Keep Arkansas Beautiful Com-

Students should focus their video on the Keep Arkansas Beautiful mission of inspiring individuals to improve their communities by educating, preventing litter, promoting recycling and keeping Arkansas beautiful. Videos must be submitted to Ozark Media Arts Festival on FilmFreeway at https://filmfreeway. com/OMAF.

Visit https://keeparkansasbeautiful.com/ and click on the link in the “News” section of the homepage for more details.

After introductions were made, facilitator Tim Hesse began the exercises, getting everyone involved with activities to get the wheels of imagination turning as attendees interacted with one another.

The atmosphere was laid back and there was plenty of laughter.

Another dozen or so interested parties had contacted owners Denni and Lou Longoria to see if they could attend the next class due to prior commitments on the first Saturday. If you missed the event and would like to attend, contact MMR at 479-394-3110. Classes are each Saturday throughout the remainder of September.

Tim Hesse (right of the desk), explaining some of the acting exercises the class will undertake on the first day of the workshop. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

MRHS Health Fair 2023 is Saturday

By Ethan Nahté

Mena Regional Health System is ready for you to Tackle Your Health at the MRHS Health Fair, 9 a.m.-noon at UARM’s Ouachita Center, Saturday, Sept. 16.

MRHS is thrilled to be able to host another exciting Health Fair to showcase health services in our community. There will be health screenings available, coffee and light breakfast items, and the Mega Brain returns. This year’s theme is “Committed to Community Health.”

The event will feature 50-plus vendors located inside and outside the Ouachita Center. Some vendors will be giving out door prizes, and attendees can sign up to win one of the two grand prizes perfect for tailgating season: a pair of folding chairs and a gas grill.

The Bloodmobile will also be on hand, starting at 8 a.m. for the 2023 Vein Drain. Donors will

receive a glow-in-the-dark Vein Drain T-shirt and one free entry to Little Rock Zoo. To avoid waiting in line, scan the QR code to make an appointment with Our Blood Institute to donate.

Pulse Multi-Media will also be on location doing a livestream of the event.

Indian taco fundraiser and silent auction at Big Fork Mall, 1-4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 17. Minimum $10 donation, cash only. Includes Indian taco & medium drink. All proceeds will go to Luke and Dottie Van Pelt for Luke’s lung cancer surgery.

DIY Learn Something New Saturday, Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. in the Extension Education Building, 211 DeQueen St. We will learn to make crepes. There will be some with savory fillings. Please register by calling the Extension Office, (479) 394-6018 so we will have enough supplies for everyone.

Calvary Baptist Church’s service times will be changing effective Sept. 3: Coffee and donuts served starting at 9:15 a.m., Sunday school/Bible study (all ages) - 9:45-10:45 a.m., worship service @ 10:55 a.m., Sunday evening service @ 6 p.m., and Wednesday prayer service @ 6 p.m.

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

Around Town

at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at (479) 2345289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300.

Come play Pickleball! Open play Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8:30 a.m., Aubrey D. Tapley Park - 2562 U.S. Hwy 71, Mena. Bring your own equipment and come have fun. All levels are welcome. Unsure or interested? Come watch before purchasing equipment.

The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 394-1565 or polkarhousing.com

First Presbyterian Church will be presenting a 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Christ’s Church of Cove, 5234 Hwy. 71 S, Cove gathers every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m., for free coffee and conversation.

Hatfield First Baptist Church

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

in need.

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

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

American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows.

Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m.

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

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

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!

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. T0920

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

T0906

Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T1101

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

T0906

Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T0913

Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts. Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976. T1101

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0920

- PETS FOR SALE- CLASSIFIEDS -

- 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.

T0927

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.

T0927

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

Parts, automotive, and computer experience would be helpful.

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

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

T0927

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

T0927

For sale - AKC English Bulldog puppies. Two females, standard colors all in the same litter, and ready for their new home. Facebook Arklatex Bulldogs to see these beauties. Call 870-642-3104 for more information. TFN

AKC Mini-Dachshunds, 1st shots, wormed and socialized, rare dapples. Call for pictures and colors. $500 (479) 234-2882 T0920

- YARD SALE -

Saturday-only garage sale Sept.16th, 9-5, 202 Eve St., Mena. Phase 1 of annual sale: Furniture, armchairs, ottomans, love seat, area rugs, china cabinet, household items and more. T0913

- FOR SALE -

For Sale-Handmade Quilts, different sizes. (479) 234-1492 T0913

For Sale - Gun Cabinet with glass door and lower cabinet, 74” tall,

- FOR RENT -

For Rent - 1 Bedroom apartment, appliances and utilities furnished. $650/month + $200 deposit. (479) 234-1492 T0913

KNAP-IN continued from page 13 knapping but spend a lot of time looking for washouts or digging to find arrowheads, some of them dating back hundreds of years. The collectors may not even be selling any of their products on display in nice wood and glass cases. They are simply there to tell you about how and what part of the country they found the arrow or spearheads and perhaps some history of the people who created them. There’s the occasional fossil thrown in there as well.

Some stories came from those who like to work stone. A few of those who do knapping use chert, flint, obsidian, jadeite, jasper, schist or coral to name just a few of the potential materials. Some take on the challenge of trying to knap about any rock they can. Items made range from spearheads to arrowheads, knives to scrapers, tomahawks to an atlatl.

Many of the knappers are there before the public, showing the techniques and methods they use. Some only do the first stage or two and leave the rest to someone who might want to work the stone more or leave it be. Others make finely honed pieces of lithic technology that could be functional for hunting, skinning, or cleaving.

Some of the pieces that chip and break off, or aren’t usable for knapping, end up being polished and making for some beautiful pieces of all sorts of colors and designs only found in nature.

If you’re a rockhound or enjoy history, the family-friendly Knap-in is a place to geek out. It’s educational in many ways. And, if you just like checking out cool, handmade items with pretty designs, it serves that purpose as well.

$150. (479) 2430405 T0913

Police

September 13, 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

September 4, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Tims Lane near Hatfield in reference to a theft.

Deputies responded to a report of a sexual assault.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 41 S near Mena in reference to a verbal altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

September 5, 2023

Chase Henry, 37, of Mena was arrested on charges of Resisting Arrest and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Minor.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Dalton Lane near Cove in reference to an altercation.

September 6, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 8 W near Mena in reference to a verbal dispute.

September 7, 2023

Deputies responded to a report of an altercation on Hwy 71 N near Mena.

Ariana Andrews, 20, of Mena was arrested on a 3rd Degree Battery Warrant.

Deputies responded to a report of the fraudulent use of a credit card.

Charles Walker, 74, of Mena was arrested on a Failure to Appear Warrant.

September 8, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a structure fire on Hwy 88 E near Yocana.

April Poor, 44, of Mena was arrested on a Failure to Appear Warrant. James Alaniz, 57, of Mena was arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department on charges of Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License, No Vehicle License and Driving without Insurance.

September 9, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 8 W near Mena in response to an unattended death. Deputies responded to a location on Polk 449 near Grannis in reference to a missing person leading to the arrest of Amber Hill, 28, of DeQueen on charges of Public Intoxication and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor.

Brian Knight, 39, of Mena was arrested on a warrant for 3rd Degree Domestic Battery and 2nd Degree Terroristic Threatening.

Chakota Snow, 25, of Garvin, Oklahoma was arrested by an officer with the Arkansas Highway Patrol to be held for another agency.

Joseph Cunningham, 38, of Mena was arrested by an officer with the Arkansas State Police on a Body Attachment Warrant.

Rodney McQueen, 45, of Mena was arrested on a Felony Theft of Property Warrant.

September 10, 2023

Deputies responded to a residence on Polk 752 near Potter in reference to harassment.

Dawnylle Boutwell, 54, of Cove was arrested on five Failure to Appear Warrants.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked 2 vehicle accidents this week.

MENA POLICE REPORTS

September 3

Ronda Castillo, 46, was served with a warrant at a residence on Jones Street.

A report of dogs running at large was taken at a residence on Gary Drive.

September 4

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

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

September 5

Joyce Carroll, 70, was charged with Criminal Trespass at Walmart.

Mackenzie McAllister, 22, was charged with Domestic Battery 3rd at a residence on North Reine Street.

September 6

Briley Dawson, 23, was charged with Theft at Walmart.

September 7

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

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

A report of criminal trespass was taken at a residence on Southerland Avenue.

September 8

A report of disorderly conduct was taken at a residence on 7th Street.

John Tunnell, 62, was charged with Criminal Trespass at Walmart.

September 9

No report.

HSO Spay/ Neuter Clinic

The Humane Society of the Ouachitas (HSO) will host the Ozark Mountain Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic at the Polk County Fairgrounds, Mena, Sept. 26-28. Call 394-8001 for details or to make an appointment beginning Sept. 15. Appointments are limited!

Starting rates: $40 for cats, $60-$95 for dogs. They also offer rabies vaccinations for $5.

Local teams hope to turn things around this week

By Ethan Nahté

Local teams seemed to have a rough go of it the past few days, with only a bright spot here and there.

The Jr. Ladycats played in Paris at the Paris Volleyball Tournament Saturday. The Ladycats were second in their pool and lost to Paris in the first round of the gold bracket.

They got their revenge Monday afternoon, playing Paris on their home court. They won their matches 2-1 with a win of 25-14, loss of 25-14, and a second win of 15-7. They were scheduled to play at Bauxite Tuesday after we The Pulse went to press.

The Sr. Ladycats had an exciting match against Paris on Monday in five sets. Mena won the first game 25-18, lost 2521 and 25-19, won 25-21 and lost the fifth game 15-12. The Ladycats came up short 3-2, their record falling 7-1 overall but still 6-0 in conference. They hold on to the No. 2 position. They were also scheduled to play at Bauxite on Tuesday. Bauxite is No. 3 in the conference with a 5-4 overall and 4-1 in conference.

Bearcats

The Bearcats beat the Lincoln Wolves last year at homecoming, barely squeaking out the win. This past Friday was another close game, only it was the other way around with the Bearcats losing to the Wolves 45-42. Mena is now 2-1 and Lincoln is 3-0.

They take on the Riverview Raiders this week, who are 0-3. Within the conference, Mena, Nashville, Malvern and Ashdown all have the same overall record so far this season.

Mount Ida

Mount Ida has only one remaining senior, a couple of juniors and the rest sophomores, and that can be a good thing or a bad thing. The good thing is that Coach White has time to train them so come their junior and senior years they should be a well-honed team that has played together enough to be a threat. For this year, it’s probably going to be disappoint-

ing unless something changes soon.

Their first game against McCrory had a spate of bad calls and turnovers, including being inches from the end zone, that cost them the game 28-0.

This past Friday during their second game, they got within half a foot of the end zone and turned it over again against the Jessieville Lions.

Jessieville has a relatively whole new set-up after the tornado that ripped across the 50-yard-line Jan 2. Students fresh back from winter break were preparing to get on school buses and had to run for cover. The EF-1 made it on national news as it tore through town and destroyed parts of the field and lights.

They now have Astroturf and a light system that flashes on and off to the beat of the music according to the play-byplay callers for Mount Ida. It started out as an interesting novelty but soon turned into a strobing headache as Jessieville’s pride showed Mount Ida’s Lions whose turf they were on.

The refs seemed to have done a better job, although there was a questionable kick that probably should’ve been blown down. The game got away from Mount Ida due to penalties and turnovers more than anything. Jessieville led 34-0 at halftime. At the beginning of the second half, the first play after recovering the kickoff resulted in a 70-yard run for a touchdown, which resulted in a fight in the end zone and a score of 40-0.

Halfway through the third quarter, Jessieville sent out clean jerseys, more than likely it’s freshmen. Mount Ida’s young team would at least, in theory, be playing a team with similar playing experience. More penalties and a couple of fumbles put the nail in the coffin with Mount Ida losing 47-0.

This week is their homecoming game as they take on Lavaca. Perhaps playing at home will benefit them along with the adrenaline rush of it being homecoming. Where Mount Ida is 0-2, Lavaca’s Golden Arrows are 2-0.

Jonathon Daniels named to SNHU President’s List

MANCHESTER, NH (09/06/2023) —

Jonathon Daniels of Mena has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s (SNHU) Summer 2023 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum gradepoint average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with a 90-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 170,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at snhu.edu.

Polk County students recognized for College Board National Award

Acorn High School juniors

Christian Christiana and Hailee Shores, and Mena High School senior Psalm Wistrand, are just a few selected, among thousands of students from across the country who applied and qualified, to earn academic honors from the College Board’s National Recognition Programs (NRSTA).

These National Recognition Programs grant underrepresented students with academic honors that can be included on college and scholarship applications and connect students with universities across the country, helping them stand out during the admissions process. Colleges and scholarship programs use these honors to identify students from underrepresented groups through College Board’s Student Search Service.

Christiana and Shores are dedicated to their studies and have put in hard work to prepare them for college that has paid off.

Christiana earned the College Board National Rural and Small Town Award and Shores earned the College Board National Indigenous Award.

Colleges and scholarship pro -

grams use these honors to recruit students. Christiana and Shores each have plans to pursue higher educational goals in their career fields.

Wistrand earned an academic honor also for the College Board National Rural and Small Town Award Recognition Program for her strong performance on College Board assessments and her hard work in class. She earned this academic honor because of her GPA of 3.5 or higher and outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT®, and AP® Exams.

Students earn this recognition by excelling on their PSAT/ NMSQT, PSAT 10, or AP Exams and in their classrooms.

Students who may be eligible have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have excelled on the PSAT/ NMSQT or PSAT 10, or earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP Exams; and are African American or Black, Hispanic American or Latino, Indigenous, and/or attend school in a rural area or small town.

Eligible students are invited to apply during their sophomore or junior year, and are awarded at the beginning of the next school year.

For more information visit https://bigfuture.collegeboard. org/communities-events/national-recognition-programs/.

(Clockwise from left) Christian Christiana, Hailee Shores and Psalm Wistrand qualified to earn academic honors from the College Board’s National Recognition Programs. (Submitted photos)

University of Arkansas Rich Mountain hosts Arkansas native Travis Ulmer

and product. His creative work and that of his team has been awarded across the globe by the likes of the Clios, American Advertising Awards, National Sports Forum, and Mid-America EMMYs. Ulmer has won five EMMYs across branded documentary and brand campaign categories.

Mena High School 2023 Homecoming Court selected

Submitted by UARM

Using a grant from the Department of Arkansas Heritage, Polk County’s Quality of Life (http://qoloutreach. org/) will host Mena native Travis Ulmer at 10 a.m. in the Ouachita Center on the UARM campus at 1100 College Dr. on Tuesday, Oct. 17.

Ulmer was born and raised in Mena. He is a graduate of Mena High School, where he played basketball, participated in student government, and wrote for the Bear Facts student newspaper. These experiences have influenced his career and marketing style.

Currently, Ulmer is the Chief Creative Officer at Cannonball, an advertising agency based in St. Louis, Missouri with over 50 employees and a diverse roster of clients including Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Bad Boy Mowers, and St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Ulmer began his career as a copywriter and continues writing for his clients while overseeing Cannonball’s overall creative process

He is a graduate of the University of Missouri Journalism School, which has been long recognized as the top journalism program in America. Ulmer lives in St. Louis with his wife of 19 years, Emily, and their four children. To see some of Ulmer’s work, visit travisulmer. mportfolio.com or to learn more about Cannonball, visit cannonballagency.com.

For more information about the event at UA Rich Mountain, call 479-394-7622, ext. 1370, email bminer@urichmountain.edu, or visit www.uarichmountain.edu

This program was made possible in part by a grant from the Division of Arkansas Heritage, funded by your 1/8 cent conservation tax, Amendment 75. For more information, visit https://www.arkansasheritage.com/

Submitted by Mark Hobson

The Mena High School 2023 Homecoming Court was announced on Friday, Sept 8. The court was chosen in a vote by the student body on Thursday. Homecoming will be on Friday, Oct. 20, as the Bearcats take on the Fouke Panthers. The ceremony and crowning of the queen will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium.

Freshmen

Zoe Adams

Emmi Hensley

Sophomores

Jayden Cox

Chloe Hooper

Juniors

Reese Montgomery

Isabel Vacca

Seniors

Amy Gragg

Rylie McClara

Holiday Neufeld

Shantal Tecson

Sophia Vacca

Psalm Wistrand

Livestock Show and Sale 2023

Kaylee Williams, Cossatot River FFA Grand Champion Market Steer Hunter Logging - $2,100

Lacy Floyd, Mena FFA & Mountain Valley 4-H Grand Champion Market Lamb and Grand Champion County Bred Market Lamb 5 J Electric - $1,900

Ryan Walston, Mena FFA & Mountain Valley 4-H Grand Champion County Bred Market Hog 5 J Electric - $1,500

Liam Brandon, Sod Busters 4-H Grand Champion Poultry Pen of Three Pilgrim’s - $1,400

Aubriana Heath

Mighty Oaks 4-H

Jazlynn Hackworth, Sod Busters 4-H Reserve Champion County Bred Market Steer Chapman Cattle Company - $2,100

Malloree Bush Off the Grid 4-H Market Hog 5 J Electric - $1,600

Jentry Burger HIckory Creek 4-H Market Hog

Pilgrim’s - $1,600

Dalton Jewell, Cossatot River FFA Market Hog Bell Ranch Genetics - $2,300

Jaylie Huff, Mountain Valley 4-H Market Hog

Union Bank - $1,300

Ava McLain, Cossatot River FFA & Off the Grid 4-H Market Hog

The Ouachitas - $2,000

Christian Woods, Hickory Creek 4-H Market Hog Union Bank - $1,500

Jake Huff, Mountain Valley 4-H Market Hog Union Bank - $1,300

Livestock Show and Sale 2023

Emmie Owens, Mena FFA Market Hog Holly Springs Real Estate - $1,500

Avenlei Bush, Off the Grid 4-H Markey Hog 5J Electric- $1,300

Cooper Hayes, Cossatot River FFA Market Hog The Ouachitas - $1,300

Gabe Bell, Cossatot River FFA Market Hog The Ouachitas - $1,600

Halee Hoobler, Mena FFA & Mighty Oaks 4-H Market Hog

Mena Ford - $2,100

Kaylee Williams, Cossatot River FFA Market Hog Pilgrim’s - $2,300

Haydyn Hunter, Sod Busters 4-H Market Hog The Ouachitas - $3,400

Lexi Miles, Cossatot River FFA Market Hog Hunter Logging - $1,300

Livestock Show and Sale 2023

Drake Mirus, Hatfield Green Team 4-H Market Goat Hornet Tire - $1,000

Jade Bailey, Mighty Oaks 4-H Market Goat Union Bank - $1,200

Bradley Wade, Cossatot River FFA Market Goat 5W Welding - $1,600

Chandler Hendrickson, Mena FFA Market Goat Hornet Tire - $1,100

Brenlei Mirus, Mena FFA & Hatfield Green Team Market Lamb Hornet Tire - $1,100

Noah Brandon, Sod Busters 4-H Market Goat

5W Welding - $1,300

Garrison Singleton, Mountain Valley 4-H Market Lamb Union Bank - $1,300

Bella Horton, Mountain Valley 4-H Market Lamb

Shelter Insurance - Kenny Miller - $1,200

Layla Walker, Mena FFA Market Lamb

5J Electric - $1,300

David Dollar, Mena FFA Market Lamb The Ouachitas - $1,200

Chason Higgins, Sod Busters 4-H American Heifer Chapman Cattle Company - $1,300

Raeleigh Speight, Hickory Creek 4-H

Non-American Heifer Chapman Cattle Company - $2,800

Lachlan Hackworth, Sod Busters 4-H Market Steer Chapman Cattle Company - $2,100

Kohlea Carmack, Acorn FFA & Mighty Oaks 4-H

Non-American Heifer Polk County Cattlemen Association - $2,000

Cooper Hayes, Cossatot River 4-H Market Steer Chapman Cattle Company - $2,000