Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
July 28, 2021
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Ouachita Nights offers historic event downtown
INSIDE:
By Jeri Pearson
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Despite being a dry county, alcohol can legally be consumed on a city street during an event hosted by The Ouachitas. Mena City Council voted in favor, with only one council person abstaining from voting, to allow the creation of a temporary entertainment district. This action creates a “district” for the event, which will allow the consumption of alcohol at the corner of Martin Ave. and Mena Street, between The Ouachitas and Sanctified Design. With the passing of HB1228, now Act 874, during the 2021 legislative session, local municipalities now have the authority to create enter-
tainment districts, even in a dry county. According to Act 874, the city can “designate an entertainment district in an area with established entities authorized sell alcoholic beverages; and for other purposes.” With The Ouachitas, located at 821 Mena Street, authorized to brew and sell alcohol, this qualifies Mena to create an entertainment district, despite residing in a dry county. The Ouachitas opened the brewery portion of the enterprise on October 30, 2020. The Ouachita’s owner, Derek Campbell said the first beer legally brewed and sold in the county The Ouachitas owner, Derek Campbell, was a momentous occasion, one for at his venue on Mena Street, where he which the community showed a vast operates a brewery, coffee shop and
See DISTRICT on page 2 restaurant.
Buschman announces candidacy for Prosecuting Attorney Office Submitted by Debra Buschman
Christmas in July
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Debra Buschman
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Debra Wood Buschman of Mena has announced her candidacy for Prosecuting Attorney for the 18th West Judicial District, which consists of Montgomery and Polk Counties. Debra currently serves as Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the district. Buschman is a 1997 graduate of
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Wickes High School and holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Arkansas State University, where she graduated magna cum laude. She completed her law degree at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 2006. Debra and her husband, Dr. Paul Buschman, have two sons, Benjamin and Samuel. The family attends The Cross-
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ing Church in Mena where Debra enjoys serving on the Children's Ministry Team. She is the president of the Polk County/Mena Rotary Club and a member of the Lioness Club. She has served on the board of the Chamber of Commerce and currently serves on the
See BUSCHMAN continued on page 2
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DISTRICT
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021 continued from page 1
amount of support. “I think people understand what we are doing here. Everyone has been pleased with what we have to offer and what we are trying to bring to downtown,” Campbell said. “The creation of the temporary entertainment district for the event is a result of the vision for an active downtown, offering things to do and a good environment, coming to fruition. I think community leaders and residents understand what we are trying to do for our community through tourism and we have received a lot of support.
Mena Mayor Seth Smith said such an endeavor would be beneficial to the city as a boon to tourism. “The law allows us to create a temporary or permanent district,” Smith said. “The recommendation from the committee to the council is a temporary one, to try it out.” The entertainment district will be in effect for two days, July 30 and 31 from 5 until 10 p.m. During the event, Ouachita Nights, musicians Ashtyn Barbaree and Randall Shreve will offer live entertainment on an outside stage, while guests at The
BUSCHMAN board of the Mena Water Utility. Debra was selected to serve as President of the Montgomery and Polk Counties’ Bar Association for two consecutive years. “I was raised in Polk County and when my husband was offered a position at Mena Regional Health System
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in 2013 I was beyond thrilled to return home to serve my community. Paul and I are so grateful to raise our boys in such a safe and wholesome environment where there is a strong sense of community and where people know and help their neighbors. I am very
Ouachitas can order food and beverages to consume while enjoying the entertainment. Campbell said there are no age restriction to enjoy the event and his goal is to offer an environment everyone can enjoy. To consume an alcoholic beverage in the entertainment district, the beverage must be purchased from The Ouachitas during the event and only consumed in the designated area on Martin Ave. Mena City Council included a provision when passing the ordinance for the temporary district that allows the
Mena Police Chief or Mena Fire Chief to disband the district in the event of a threat to public safety and welfare. Council members noted the event is scheduled to end both evenings before the city’s noise ordinance takes effect. Smith noted if the temporary entertainment district is a success, opportunities for additional temporary entertainment districts may be considered. “It may open the door for a variety of events in the future,” Smith said. “Tourists are coming here. We need to give them a reason to stay here.”
honored to serve as a prosecutor for this community that I love and care about so deeply,” says Buschman. Debra began her career in private practice in 2006 before focusing her career on prosecution in 2007. She has also worked as a public defender
and conflicts attorney for the State of Arkansas. In January 2019 Debra was hired as a part-time deputy prosecutor, and she was promoted to the full-time position of Chief Deputy Prosecutor for Montgomery and Polk Counties in January 2021. Debra says, “My first boss, threw me straight into the deep end. I tried my first jury trial as a prosecutor only a couple of weeks after being hired. It was then I realized my calling. I have worked in other areas of the law, and I value the perspective and experience those cases have given me, but my true passion is for prosecution. Seeking justice for victims of violent crimes is one of the most fulfilling parts of my career. I strive to help victims navigate the complicated court system and to help them feel more comfortable through what can sometimes be a scary and confusing process. I am honored to have the opportunity to serve my home district while fulfilling my professional calling to seek justice for our community.” Andy Riner’s election to Circuit Judge left a vacancy in the prosecuting attorney’s office that was filled by gubernatorial appointee D. Jason Barrett, former Chief Deputy Prosecutor for Tim Williamson. An appointed prosecutor is not eligible to run for the position. The non-partisan election will be held in May of 2022.
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News 3
July 28, 2021
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Your Pulse Dear Editor,
Thank you to everyone who had a part in planning and Please know that the kind funding the rest stop. I love this country for many and patriotic gestures shown to the members of the Arkan- reasons and I personally appreciate any patriotic event sas National Guard were much and certainly appreciate all appreciated and not overthose who have gone before us looked. as well as those currently serving the greatest country on Earth. Our convoys were certainly surprised and appreciate the residents of Mena and Polk County as we passed through on our way to Fort Polk, Louisiana.
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Sincerely, V. Glenn Lance, DDS, Col. Arkansas Army National Guard
Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Maddie Gunn 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.
Contact Your Legislators! John Maddox
john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060
Larry Teague
Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903 Nashville, AR 71852 870-845-5303
John Boozman
1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553
Bruce Westerman 101 Reserve St., Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887
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4 State News
THE POLK COUNTY
July 28, 2021
From
Pulse
Governor Asa Hutchinson
Democracy in Action
Last week, I announced I would be traveling the state for a series of Community COVID Conversations, and today I’d like to talk about why these exercises in democracy matter. The tours are a throwback to the time when community leaders and constituents had more meetings at town hall and all-day picnics. The topic for the tour is the pandemic, but listening tours are valuable for any topic. When it comes to working through issues, nothing beats face-toface conversations. I have met with folks in six cities so far. Each meeting is as different as the community I am visiting, but each is alike in one way – each is democracy in action. Democracy is a big and noble concept that we can practice simply and in the smallest venues. The goal of the Community COVID Conversation is for me to hear firsthand your concerns and ideas. Likewise, the meetings give you the chance to hear directly from me. This kind of opportunity often is the start of understanding. In the end, we still may not agree, but we may understand. During the meeting in Batesville, one gentleman said something I’m sure he has expressed often, but this time he had the opportunity to get it off his chest directly to the governor. And I had the chance to respond directly. He said many people aren’t taking the vaccine because they don’t trust the government. I said, Let me ask you what advice you would give me. Shoot straight with the people, he said. Tell them the facts. I told him I agreed 100 percent that we must tell the truth, and the truth is
that we have a deadly disease that is still killing people so we must continue to push vaccinations, the best solution to beating COVID. Then I offered advice that he probably didn’t expect, and to be honest, I’m not sure I had ever said it exactly this way. I told him that since he doesn’t trust politicians, that he should talk to an expert that he does trust, whether it’s his doctor or someone at a medical clinic. That way, I said, you bypass the government, which can’t solve most of our problems anyway. Another moment of democracy grew uncomfortable because it was so honest. A constituent name a couple of controversial COVID treatments and asked a doctor in the audience whether he would prescribe either. He asked: Are you giving (them)? The doctor said: No sir we are not The constituent asked: If the patient asks for it ... will you give it? The doctor said no patient had asked for either of the treatments. The constituent pressed for an answer: But would you? The doctor paused six seconds to answer. Then he answered with the courage of his training and belief: No. I probably would not. Did either gentleman change his mind? I doubt it. But each was free to speak his mind in a moment of democracy at its most fundamental level. Soon I will announce the next towns on the Community COVID Conversation tour. The number of cases of COVID and those hospitalized with it continues to rise, so I continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated. I’m hopeful that as the tour continues, we will find ways to reassure those who are hesitant, and soon, the tour won’t be necessary.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
State News 5
July 28, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives
driving and ensuring saturatThis week, a subcommittee ed patrols dedicated to speed of Arkansas Legislative Council enforcement are regularly octhat provides oversight for Arcurring. kansas Game and Fish and ArThe division is dedicating kansas State Police heard from the use of the department’s Arkansas State Police Director aircraft to monitor broad secCol. Bill Bryant regarding retions of U.S. and state highway cent successes and challenges traffic. The troopers operatfacing state troopers. His testimony alerted us to John Maddox ing these aircraft are in radio communication with ground some startling statistics regarding an increase in aggressive driv- patrols, providing them with speed and reckless driving observations, directing ing and fatal accidents in our state. In 2018, the Arkansas State Police these highway patrol ground vehicles Highway Patrol Division conducted to specific locations where the viola520 crash investigations involving fatal tions are being observed. Each highway patrol division troop injuries. In 2019, the number was 505. But in 2020, that number increased commander has immediate access to by 27% to 641 deaths. Col. Bryant says deploy low profile patrol vehicles with 14% of those crashes documented ex- minimal Arkansas State Police markcessive speed of the vehicle as a con- ings and different colors, unlike the white with blue stripe markings motributing factor. So far this year, the division says torists are accustomed to seeing. These they have conducted investigations of vehicles blend into traffic, allowing accidents resulting in more than 330 troopers a better perspective to identify speeding and dangerous driving and deaths. The number of citations related to take immediate enforcement action. While we continue to look for ways acts of aggressive driving is also on the to support our law enforcement furrise. In 2019, there were 1,064 citations is- ther, there are some ways every Arkansues. In 2020, there were 2,030 citations san can help keep our roads safer. Arkansans are encouraged to let the issued. So far this year, Arkansas State Police troopers know they’re appreciated for have issued more than 2,380 citations what they’re doing to keep local highwith some documented speeds as high ways safe. Likewise, citizens should speak up and let the troopers know as 160 miles per hour. Aggressive driving incidents have where they are witnessing regular inincluded acts of violence documented cidents of lawlessness on the highways. by troopers assigned to the Arkansas Citizens shouldn’t hesitate to reach out State Police Highway Patrol Division to the commanders at these local headand investigated by Special Agents of quarters. Arkansas motorists traveling the department’s Criminal Investiga- across the state are encouraged to call tion Division. Colonel Bryant testified 9-1-1 and ask to be connected to the the troopers and special agents confirm nearest state police headquarters to an explicit increase in incidents of gun- report incidents of dangerous driving fire involving motorists shooting at and they witness on U.S. and state highinto other vehicles traveling along Ar- ways. A listing of the twelve Highway Pakansas highways. The Arkansas State Police Highway trol Division Troop Headquarters, inPatrol Division commanders are proac- cluding local telephone numbers and tive with respect to patrol assignments points of contact, can be found on our to combat the incidents of aggressive website www.arkansashouse.org.
From the
State Senate
This year computer and year, certain electronic and electronic equipment will computer equipment was be included in the Arkansas added to the list of tax exsales tax holiday. empt items. Every year the sales tax Laptops, desktops, tabholiday is the first weekend lets, printers, keyboards, calin August. This year it will be culators, cell phones, e-readSaturday, August 7, and Suners and monitors are exempt Larry Teague from the sales tax. However, day, August 8. Consumers will not have to video games, stereos and televisions pay sales tax on any articles of clothing are not included. that cost less than $100. The exemptArkansas families will save an esed items include not only ordinary timated $2.6 million on purchases of clothing such as pants, shirts, dresses electronic and computer equipment. and shoes. Also free from sales tax are The sales tax exemption applies bathing suits, baby blankets, under- to single articles, and is not based on wear, raincoats, uniforms, hats and the overall cost of everything you buy. caps, aprons, neckties, scarves and For example, you can buy three shirts steel-toes boots. $25 each and a pair of pants for $50 Diapers, even disposal diapers, are and you will not be charged the sales included on the list of exempt items. tax, even though the total is $125. BeAccessories are also on the list of cause each item is less than $100, the exempted items, as long as they cost exemption is applied. less than $50. The list of articles is exHowever, if you buy a pair of shoes tensive, and includes handbags and for $120, you will have to pay the sales purses, sunglasses, jewelry, hair notax on the full amount of the purtions, wallets, watches and wigs. More than 65 categories of cos- chase. Essentially, there is no limit on metics are exempt from the sales tax, the number of exempt items you can such as mascara, many types of hair products, fingernail polish and fin- purchase, as long as each item costs gernail remover, bath salts, artificial less than $100 for clothes or $50 for eyelashes, perfume and stretch mark accessories. There is no price limit on electroncream. ics and computer equipment, nor is School supplies will be exempt from the sales tax. Officially the first there one on school supplies. The exemption applies to all sales weekend of August is called the sales tax holiday, but many people refer to taxes, not just state sales taxes. That it as the “Back to School” sales tax means exempt items are free of all holiday. That’s because the legislature city, county and local sales taxes. All retailers have to participate. intentionally scheduled it for early Articles cannot be separated in order August, to benefit families with chilto lower their price under the $100 dren going to school. School supplies include pens, pen- and $50 thresholds. Men’s suits and pairs of shoes, which normally are cils and paper as well as art supplies. Thanks to Act 944 of 2021, ap- sold as one unit, cannot be split into proved by the legislature earlier this separate purchases.
6 Obituaries
THE POLK COUNTY
July 28, 2021
Eddie O. Terrell Eddie O. Terrell, Age 75, of Mena, Arkansas, flew to heaven on July 17, 202l. Eddie was sent for cremation by Arkansas Cremation. There will be a celebration of his life on July 31 at 10 a.m. at the Union Mission Pentecostal Church of God Family Center. Eddie is survived by his wife, Vicki Terrell of 43 years, 2 daughters Edana (Dana) Terrell Duff of Mount Ida, Arkansas and Amanda Terrell of Charleston, Arkansas, and Son, Eddie (Buddy) Terrell of Davis, Oklahoma; 7 Grandchildren; 7 Great-Grandchildren; 3 Sisters, Sue Wright Powell of Mena, Arkansas, Karen Massey Harrison of Sheridan, Arkansas, and Diane Massey Norton, Houma, Louisiana, and Brother, Terry Terrell of Mena, Arkansas; Several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Eddie was proceeded in death by Dad, Cleborn and Faye Terrell of Mena, Arkansas; Mom, Sybil McGee and Chester Massey of Story, Arkansas; Brother, Billie Terrell of Mena, Arkansas. Eddie was a tractor mechanic for most of his life as owner of Terrell’s Tractor Service. He was a member of the Union Mission Pentecostal Church of God where he and his wife Vicki taught children’s Church for 20 years. Eddie was a member of the Mason’s. Eddie also was a farmer, worked at U S Motors, Pepsi Company, Gordon’s Auction, Terrell’s Hoist Service (servicing overhead chains), and San Marcus Water Department.
Laverne Rea Jackson Schoolfield
Mrs. Laverne Rea Jackson Schoolfield, age 86, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away July 21, 2021, at her home in Hatfield. She was born to the late George Franklin Rea and Margie Ellen Mitchell Rea on September 9, 1934, in Marshall, Arkansas. She was a farmer and poultry farmer and was married to Webber Jackson, and then to Lloyd Schoolfield until their passing. Laverne had a love for music, particularly country and gospel and loved to go dancing! She was of the Pentecostal faith and enjoyed attending church as well as being an active member of the Mena Senior Center. Her greatest love was her family, and you could always see her attending her grandchildren’s ballgames. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister and a friend to all. She will be missed. She is survived by her daughters, Katherine Denton of Hatfield, Arkansas, and Vickie Denton of Booneville, Arkansas; grandchildren, Nikki Denton Jones and husband Hugh, Tina Daugherty and husband Roger, Trace Denton and wife Amber, Amanda Denton, Bobby Joe Denton and wife Joyce, Ronnie Joe Denton, Jr. and wife Stephanie, and JJ Denton; great-grandchildren, Tori, Dusty, Brett, Shelby, Summer, Jackson, Brooke, Paige, Morgan, Vivi, Gunner, Tanner, Destiny, Lexi and husband Jason, Brant, Bailey, Breckyn, Blayken, Jeter, Korbyn, Kaylie, and Kasidey and a sister-in-law, Nora Williams. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Frank Creel, Alvis Creel and Robert Rae; an infant son, Gary Lynn Jackson; a sister, Versalie Farris; and two grandchildren, William “Bill” Denton, and Eric Denton. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 24, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church with Brother Ron Tilley and Brother Mark Lyle officiating. Interment follows in
Six Mile Cemetery at Hatfield under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general. Pallbearers will be Jackson Daugherty, Miguel Gonzalez, Brett Fountain, Tanner Frachiseur, Brant Denton, Steven Davis, Breckyn Denton, Blayken Denton, Jeter Denton and Gunner Denton. Honorary pallbearers are Hung Luu, Gene Lance, Dick Kern, Todd Webb, Roger Wilson, Mike Jackson, Tommy Wells and Dusty Fountain. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Robert Lee Medcalf
Mr. Robert Lee Medcalf, age 80, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at his home. He was born on August 8, 1940, in Waurika, Oklahoma, to Murray and Ruby (Haughey) Medcalf. Robert proudly served our country in the United States Army. He worked for Southwestern Bell as a switchman in Spring, Texas, for many years. After retiring in 1999, he and his wife Sylvia moved to Mena. Robert loved the Lord. He was a writer of gospel music and led music at all the churches he ever attended. He loved and cherished his children and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed. Robert is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sylvia Medcalf; sons, Kenneth Medcalf and wife Laronda of Ft. Smith, and Randall Medcalf and wife Darinda of Spring, TX; grandchildren, Hannah Grace Medcalf, and Kayleigh Michelle Medcalf, and their mother, Alethia Medcalf; brothers, Ed Medcalf and wife Shirley of Edmond, OK, Jim Medcalf of Oklahoma City, and Richard Medcalf and wife Wanda of Stonewall, OK; sisters, Lena Derryberry of Ada, OK, Betty Irish and husband Charles of Denton, and Elsie George and husband Jim of Bristow, OK; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Virgie Walls. A memorial service for Robert will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 24,
Pulse
2021, at Bible Believers Baptist Church in Mena, Arkansas, with Bro. Jerry Musgrove and Bro. Mark Lyle officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
Gladys Mae Cost Hackworth Gladys Mae Cost Hackworth, age 89, of Cove, Arkansas, passed away Monday, July 19, 2021, in Mena, Arkansas. She was born October 14, 1931, in Fort Wingate, New Mexico, to William Effard Holley and Frances Jane Stayner Holley. Gladys was a member of the Pleasant Grove Church of the Nazarene in Cove, Arkansas. She enjoyed crocheting and playing dominoes and SkipBo. Gladys loved to go to town. You might remember seeing her and her daughter, Debbie, in WalMart on Saturdays. She loved to attend her annual family reunion in New Mexico. Gladys cherished her family and loved to spend time with them. She was a loving mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and a friend to many and will be missed by all who knew her. Gladys is preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Lee Cost and Jerry Hackworth; infant son, Edwin Beckwith; brothers Bobby Holley, Lawrence Holley, Effard Holley, Delbert Holley; sisters, Janie Darby, Harriett Wilcox, Dorothy Stevenson; great-great granddaughter, Adrienne Rodrigues. She is survived by her two sons and her daughter. Sons Edward Beckwith of Cove, Arkansas, Eddie Holley, and wife, Sandra of California City, California; daughter, Debbie Bradley and husband, Steve, of Wickes, Arkansas, brothers, Freddie Holley and wife, Betty, of Colorado, Jimmy Holley and wife, Nancy, of Florida; sisters, Shirley Reynolds, Sarah Porter; four grandchildren, Billy Holley and wife, Becky, of Washington, Lynette Pavlicek of California, Heather Watkins and husband, Ger-
HACKWORTH continued on 7
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
ald, from Arkansas, and Heath Bradley and wife, Misty, of Arkansas; seven great-grandchildren; Christynna Witzke and husband, Korey, of California, Faith Dufour and husband, Timothy, of Nevada, Teresa Thompson and husband, Edward, of Washington, Kalin Smith and husband, Kameron of Oklahoma, Bailey Watkins of Oklahoma, Alexis Bradley, Addy Watkins, Trevin Bradley, and Avery Watkins, all of Arkansas; ten great-great-grandchildren, Allen Pavlicek and Lacy Rodrigues of California, Ethan and Jack Rodrigues of Nevada, Stewiee-James, Xnineopeia, and Helen Witzke of California, Aubrey Thompson of Washington, Matthew Dufour of Washington, and Kase Smith of Oklahoma. Pallbearers will be Bailey Watkins, Kameron Smith, Tim Rose I, Roger Wilson, Tom Hudson, and John Richardson. Honorary pallbearers will be Heath Bradley, Gerald Watkins, and Eddie Holley. A funeral service will be held Friday, July 23, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., at the Pleasant Grove Church of the Nazarene in Cove, Arkansas, with Brother Steve Bradley officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield, Arkansas, under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. General visitation will be held at the funeral home. Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Obituaries 7
July 28, 2021
Heaven LevviAnne Roba
Heaven LevviAnne Roba Born on 0104-2021 and gained her angel wings on 07-16-2021. Although we didn’t get to love her long enough, we know she is in the arms of Jesus and is waiting for us there. Heaven is survived by her mother, Chelsea LeeAnn Roba of Mena, Ark.; maternal Grandmother (Mimi), Dianna Jannine Morgan of Mena, Ark; Paternal Grandpa Buck W. Roba and Grandma Heather D. Roba of Big Cedar, OK: maternal Aunt and Uncle, Harley and Jay McKee and cousins Novaleigh Grace and Alivia Jane McKee of Mena, Ark; Uncle Austin S. Morrison and cousins Baylee Michelle & Lane Cooper Morrison of Heavener, OK; Great Grandparents, Sarah and Kenny Bryant of Talihina, OK and Great Aunt and Uncle Teri and Robert Waldrep of Fort Smith Ark.; 2nd cousins Sarah and husband Jeremy Marquotte of Bella Vista, Ark., Matthew Yates and Joshua Waldrep of Fort Smith, Ark.; Great Uncle and Aunt, Aaron and Tracy Bryant and 2nd cousins Isaac, Noah and Samuel all of Talihina, OK.; Great-Grand-
parents Jim and Donna Shoemake of Mena, Ark.; Great Aunt and Uncle, Sicley and William Sidoran of Newport, NC; 2nd cousins Ryan and Kate Earnheart of Fayetteville, NC and Daniel and Maddison Sidoran and third cousin Aniston Rose Sidoran of Hubert, NC; Great Uncle Douglas Gilbert of Broken Bow, OK; (Extra Family members include Gerald McCullah and wife Lavern of Poteau, OK; Irene McCullah of Howe, OK.; Kathy Christian, Mike McCullah and Mikala McCullah all of Poteau, OK. There are many additional extended family members who loved her as well.) A memorial service for Heaven will be held 2:00 pm, Friday, July 23, 2021, at the Beasley Wood Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Mark Lyle officiating. “To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.” Isaiah 61:3 KJV GG loves you baby girl. (Sarah Bryant) If you want to see Heaven, just look up. (Grandpa Buck)
“May love be what you remember most.”
Brooklin Marie Hinkle
Brooklin Marie Hinkle, 32, of Hampton, formerly of Mena, died Friday July 23, 2021, at El Dorado. She was born October 26, 1988, at Mena. She was an Army veteran, serving in Iraq. She was preceded in death by her father, Steve Allen; grandfather, Tommie Chaney; and a daughter, Bethany Grace. She is survived by her mother, Bridget Chaney of Fordyce; stepfather, Buddy Hawes of Fordyce; daughter, Samantha Crider of Hampton; grandmother, Lucy Chaney of Hampton; aunt, Kim Chaney of Sherwood; uncle, Jason Chaney (Andrea) of Mena; cousin, Ashley Norris (Mike) of Hampton; stepsister, Amanda Simpson of Vilonia; stepbrother, Aaron Hawes of Nashville, TN; half-sister, Brittany Phillips of Mena; several siblings, cousins, and extended family. The family will receive friends Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. with services at 1:00 p.m. at the Benton Funeral Home Chapel in Fordyce. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit bentonfuneralhome.net.
- Darcie Sims
8 History
July 28, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Reflections from History and Faith: Remembering Francis Scott Key
By Jeff Olson
How many of us in the Baby Boomer generation remember our days at school when we recited the Pledge of Allegiance, prayed, and sung the national anthem at special events. To this day, the bands I play in open their concerts with the "Star Spangled Banner” for which I am very proud and thankful. And now, with the summer Olympic Games in full swing, I particularly appreciate the tradition and place of our national anthem here as well as at sporting and other events throughout the year. I believe these events should serve as opportunities for us to enjoy a unity based on our common interest in the game, concert, or whatever the occasion might be. “The Star Spangled Banner” should, as it once did, serve as an expression and symbol of that unity but in a broader sense, signifying that we are Americans first and foremost – a people whose core identity transcends (but not diminishes) not only the naturally inherent differences we have but also the differences of opinions and philosophies among us. That which unites US must be stronger and deeper than that which divides us! This is the legacy of the “Star Spangled Banner.” I would like for us now to take a closer look at this venerable American institution, but more specifically through its author, Francis Scott Key. Key was born two hundred forty two years ago on August 1, 1779 at the family plantation "Terra Rubra" in what was Frederick County, Maryland. He studied law at St. John's College in Annapolis, and married Mary Tayloe “Polly” Lloyd in 1802. The couple would go on to have 11 children. By 1805 Key had set up his legal practice in Georgetown, part of Washington, D.C. He was a deeply religious man, so much so that at one time he almost gave up his law practice
to enter the ministry. However, he decided to work in law to better support his growing family and resolved to become more involved in the Episcopal Church. Key took an active role in the lives of his 11 children, faithfully encouraging them to keep high moral standards rooted in biblical principles. During the early part of the 19th century, the United States was at odds with Great Britain over its attempts to restrict its trade with France, the Royal Navy’s impressment of American seamen, and America’s desire to expand its territory. Though opposed to what would become the War of 1812, due to his religious convictions and believing that the disagreement could be settled without armed conflict, Francis Scott Key nonetheless served in the Georgetown Light Field Artillery. British forces captured Washington, D.C. in August 1814. Dr. William Beanes, an elderly and much-loved town physician who was also a colleague of Key's, was taken prisoner. As a well-known lawyer, Key was approved by President James Madison to help in the negotiation of Beanes' release which required him to travel to Baltimore. There, British naval forces were located along Chesapeake Bay where Beanes was held captive aboard the British flagship Tonnant. Key, along with Colonel John Skinner, was able to secure Beanes' freedom, though they were not allowed to return to land until the British completed their bombardment of Fort McHenry. On September 13, 1814 the three men watched the 25 hour-long assault, but the British failed to destroy the fort. Sometime in the night, the British ceased their attack and left the area, es-
timating that Baltimore was too costly a prize. The next morning, Key noticed with pride a U.S. flag still flying above the fort, a large (30 by 42 feet) flag sewn by Mary Young Pickersgill at the request of the fort commander, Major George Armistead. Having been so inspired, Key began to write on the back of a letter he had in his pocket. While sailing back to Baltimore, he composed more lines of the poem in his lodgings at the Indian Queen Hotel. His work would come to be known as the Defence of Fort M'Henry and was printed in handbills and newspapers, including the Baltimore Patriot. The poem was later set to the tune of a song composed by John Stafford Smith, "To Anacreon in Heaven," and came to be called “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Ninety years ago in 1931, by an official act of Congress, it became the national anthem of the United States. After the war, Francis Scott Key continued working in law. Though he came from family of slave owners, he despised slave trafficking and eventually freed his own slaves. In 1816, he helped found the American Colonization Society, a group that declared the answer to ending slavery was sending free blacks back to Africa. Key represented, free of charge, both free blacks and slaves in legal cases through the years. One of those involved the capture of the Spanish slave ship Antelope off the coast of Florida with nearly 300 African slaves. He served as defense attorney for the Africans. Spending his own money, he fought to free the slaves in an expensive legal battle which lasted for seven years. In his argument before the high court in 1825, facing six justices (four of whom were slave owners),
Key stated that by the law of nature, all men are free. Unfortunately he lost the case but he was able to raise a substantial sum of money to help the Africans, some of whom were returned to Africa. Key became the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia in 1833, arguing more than 100 cases before the Supreme Court. In 1841, Key helped former President John Quincy Adams free 53 African slaves in the Armistead Case. Key served as Vice President of the American Bible Society from 1817 until his death in 1843 and served as a board member of the American Sunday School Union from 1824 until his death. In Key’s words, “The patriot who feels himself in the service of God, who acknowledges Him in all his ways, has the promise of Almighty direction, and will find His Word in his greatest darkness, ‘a lantern to his feet and a lamp unto his paths’…He will therefore seek to establish for his country in the eyes of the world, such a character as shall make her not unworthy of the name of a Christian nation.” Postscript: Upon awakening on the morning of this writing, facing the sunrise through the trees outside my study window, I journeyed back 207 years to another “dawn’s early light” when a patriot and amateur poet was so inspired. I then re-visited his humanity, patriotism, artistry, frailties and all and in reading the last verse of his most famous poem found myself humbled and reminded of the greatness of God and the history of His providence and blessings on our nation: “O! thus be it ever when freemen shall stand Between their loved home and the war’s desolation; Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the Heav'n-rescued land Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserved us a nation! Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just; And this be our motto, "In God is our trust!"
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Faith 9
July 28, 2021
An Arkie’s Faith: The Little Blue Engine By Richie Lawry
The little red-haired girl crawled up onto my lap with a stack of books. She loved her books and wanted me to read to her every night. She always came with a stack of books even though she knew that the rule was two books. Each night, she could pick out two books that my wife or I would read to her. It was such a hard choice. She had so many books that she loved. Some nights she would try to find a loophole in the rules by bringing one of her large volumes of The Bible Story series. We had to amend the rule to only two stories if she chose a large book. Many of her favorite books were from the Scholastic Book’s Children’s Choice Book Club. Each month the book club would send a new book. The little redhaired girl would eagerly await her book. Some of her favorites were Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, Make Way for Ducklings, Noisy Nora, and The Little Engine That Could. You probably remember the story of The Little Engine That Could. The story has become a part of the fabric of America. It is such a part of America that no one is sure of its origins. The roots of the story date at least to the beginning of the twentieth century. Rev. Charles S. Wing published a version, “Story of the Engine That Thought It Could,” in the New York Tribune on April 8, 1906. Mary C. Jacobs published another version with the name “The Pony Engine” in 1910. A different version with the same title appeared in a magazine for children in 1916 written by Mabel C. Bragg, but she “took no credit for originating the story.” In 1930, Arnold Munk, the owner of the publishing firm Platt & Munk, published his version of the story. Arnold was born in Hungary, but he immigrated to the USA with his parents when he was a child. The family settled in Chicago, but Arnold eventually moved to New York City. He rented offices on Fifth Avenue and founded the publishing company Platt and Monk. Arnold published his version of the story, titled “The Little Engine That Could,” under the pen name Watty Piper. It quickly became a best-seller. In 1999, The National Education Association named the book one of its “Teachers’ Top 100 Books for Children.” Teachers like the story because it teaches children the value of optimism and hard work.
If you have read the book, you will remember that a train broke down, and the cargo headed to the boys and girls on the other side of the mountain was not going to make it there. The train asked Shiny New Engine to pull it over the mountain, but he said, “that’s not what I do.” Then the train asked Big Strong Engine to pull it over the mountain, but he said, “I have no time for the likes of you.” The train asked the Little Blue Engine to help. “I’m not very big,” said the Little Blue Engine. “They use me only for switching trains in the yard. I have never been over the mountain.” Then The Little Blue Engine hitched herself to the little train. She tugged and pulled, and slowly they started off. Puff, puff, chug, chug, went the Little Blue Engine. “I think I can – I think I can – I think I can – I think I can – I think I can.” It’s a very American story. The Little Blue Engine used her own resources, her energy, and fuel. What
did she gain? Growth, a sense of wellbeing from the accomplishment, and a platform for doing great things in the future. At the beginning of the story, The Little Blue Engine is willing to help but has no confidence in her abilities. But after completing her task successfully, her final words are, “I thought I could, I thought I could, I thought I could.” The Little Blue Engine teaches us that we can accomplish anything with a bit of optimism, hard work, and perseverance. I have always been encouraged to “believe in yourself, and you can do anything.” To think that “I can do it!” To have the attitude that “I can shape my destiny.” But is that the truth? The problem is that the “I think I can” mentality leaves God out of the equation. Many Christians believe in the power of positive thinking. If I just put my mind to it, I can become a better person. If I work hard enough, I can overcome the sin in my life. In our spiritual lives, self-confidence is a misplaced reliance on ourselves. When we show the “I think I can” attitude towards overcoming sin, imagine how God feels. The Bible tells us that “we are all infected and impure with sin. When we display our righteous deeds, they are nothing but filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6 (NLT) Imagine how God feels when we display our good deeds and are proud of them. Self-confidence looks excellent on the outside, and people notice it. Self-confident people fill Christian churches. They trust in their ability to be good enough for God. God wants us to have confidence; Just not in our own works. We need to put our confidence in Him. We need to understand that we are entirely powerless – in and of ourselves – to do any good thing. And that we can’t save ourselves, fix ourselves, change ourselves, or even give God our love without His help. Gentle Reader, God wants us to have confidence, but he wants us to have confidence in Him and not in ourselves. “Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.” Jeremiah 17:7 (NLT) We must realize that instead of “I think I can,” our motto should be, “I know I can’t, but God can.” In Philippians 4:13 (NKJV), Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Now that’s the power of positive thinking. I know He can, I know He can, I know He can.
Joke of the Week: I get nostalgic when I put my truck in reverse. It really takes me back.
Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
10 Humor/Old West
July 28, 2021
HUMOR
Hogspore News
Swim with your Hog Day By Clet Litter from the Ozarks Sumner’s Pond is open and busy with townfolk splashing and carrying on like clueless fools. The snack bar is convenient with prices marked down to full retail. Old Man Sumner still holds Wednesday Swim with Your Hog Day. I tried to get Sid, my pig, to go, but he wouldn’t climb into my pickup truck bed. He knew where we were headed and he didn’t want any part of it. I mentioned this to Morton Trubletoof, cause he knows a lotta bout animals and their ways. He offered, “I’ll talk to your pet and find out what’s bothering him.” Morton come back with the answer, "Sid is shy about going to the Swim with Your Hog Day. The other hogs tease him over being too thin. They sing hurtful songs like, ‘This little piggy went wee-wee-wee all the way home to his private little pond.’” It made sense cause of his early days as a piglet. We had to pay the vet to examine him. Doc Muley said, “Your pig has himself a dose of Coccidiosis.” Sid survived, but it messed up his stomach, and he didn’t gain the weight that his siblings did. Course, he never got fat enough to butcher. His brothers and sisters gained pounds like they were 4-H Club projects. He visited them in the smokehouse till I finished off the rest of his kinfolk at my kitchen table a year ago. I oughta explain the name Sid. No, it ain’t short for Sidney. When he was two, Punkin suggested we name him. She wanted to christen him after his disease, Coccidiosis, but it didn’t sound right when we said it out loud, Cocci. So, we called him Sid. Mumford Pickens gets to wondering about stuff, specially after a night of quality control testing his untaxed whiskey inventory. He asked me, “Why call something wireless? We don't call automobiles, horseless carriages anymore. We don’t say wireless radio … and what does Wi-Fi mean?” My comment was, “I don’t know.” Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you wanna.
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Tales from the Old West James Franklin "Bud" Ledbetter
By Ray Shelley I want to tell you a true story about a boy born in 1852; he got older wanted to be a successful farmer like his father and grandfather. Being a policeman was the furthest thing from his mind. Until the age of 27, married with two children, a white linen suit sent him on the way to a 48-year adventure in Law Enforcement; his name is James Franklin 'Bud' Ledbetter... Bud had moved his family to Coal Hill, Johnson County, Arkansas, from Madison County, Arkansas. He felt the soil in Johnson County was best suited for his farming needs. After settling the family into their new surroundings, Bud decided to pick up some extra income by seeking a part job in the surrounding coal mines. One Saturday, Bud told his wife Mary that he would go to town for supplies and check out the job situation. Mary said, "you are not going job hunting in those clothes; you go get your married suit on" Bud replied, " there is nothing wrong with the clothes I have on; they are clean," Mary replied, "JAMES FRANKLIN, go get your suit on." When Mary used my two names together, I knew she meant business. Kind of like my mom would do if I did something wrong as I was growing up. Anyway, to keep the peace, He put on his suit, which happened to be white linen. Bud's first stop in Coal Hill was the general store; he dropped off his supply list and told the clerk he would return
for his items later. Then he headed for the local saloon; even though Bud was a teetotaler, he knew if anybody knew about extra work, it would be workers relaxing in a saloon. When Bud enters the saloon, he observed nine rough-looking coal miners, all of whom seem to be well into their cups. When the miners saw Bud, they started in on ridiculing his linen suit, comments like, "did your mama dress you today" or "what a sweet looking guy," but what upset Bud, when one of the drunks came up and pulled on his shirt to see if it was silk. Bud didn't say a word; he turns and walks out of the saloon heading for the general store. Bud then purchased an oak ax handle, returned to the saloon, locked the door behind him, and proceeded to knock out the nine miners that made fun of him. In the meantime, a citizen of Coal Hill heard the commotion in the saloon and found the door locked, so he proceeded to get the Mayor. When the Mayor arrived with several citizens, he broke open the saloon door and found Bud leaning against the bar slapping the ax handle in his hand; Bud looked at him and said, " you want some of this?" The Mayor directed the citizens to clean up the mess Bud had made, then told Bud, "I'm the Mayor, and I would like to talk to you about a job." The Mayor offered Bud the job of Town Marshal. That was the beginning of James Franklin 'Bud' Ledbetter's 48 years as a peace officer...
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July 28, 2021
Outdoors 11
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL
MORE WHITETAIL WAR MEMOIRS By Steven E Stillwell
58,220 AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS LOST THEIR LIVES DURING THE VIETNAM WAR, BUT CIVILIAN CASUALTIES ON BOTH SIDES EXCEEDED 2,000,000. THE SOUTH VIETNAMESE ARMY REPORTED APPROXIMATELY 250,000 SOLDIERS KILLED IN ACTION WHILE THEIR NVA AND VIET CONG COUNTERPARTS LOST 1,100,000 FIGHTERS. Several years ago, one of my best friends invited me to spend a week with him in Texas, in an area known as, THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE. We planned our trip during the peak of the rut, and after my arrival, I couldn’t believe all of the trophy bucks I saw. This was one of the best managed ranches I’d ever seen, and the free-ranging wildlife was incredible. There were no high fences, and my buddy wanted it this way. If he was going to kill a Boone and Crockett animal, his
motto was; IT HAS TO BE A FAIR CHASE EXPERIENCE. PAINTED SUNRISES AND SUNSETS ARE GOD’S GIFTS TO MANKIND. Desert hunting is unique, and long-range shots are not uncommon, so your rifle better be sighted in. Three days elapsed and I was seeing more game than I’d ever seen in my life. My buddy asked me to patiently observe before shooting anything, because he wanted me to see several animals on his, NO SHOOT LIST. These were young Bucks, 10 points or more that were incredibly huge, but were still maturing, and hadn’t reached their maximum potential. Foxes, coyotes, exotics, snakes, turtles, peccaries, feral hogs, whitetails and a variety of birds were sighted almost every day from the various stands my friend shuttled me to. On the fourth day, three additional lease holders arrived, and this is when our trip got really interesting. Sleeping accommodations weren’t a problem, because each hunting party had their own private quarters, so there was plenty of room. A beautiful fire-pit was situated in the center of these lodges, and this proved to be a rallying point in the evenings after each hunt. My attention was immediately drawn to the oldest hunter in this group, and after a quick
introduction, I learned that he was a naval aviator, and we both served on the same ship, THE USS LEXINGTON CVA 16, but at different times. Mr. Gray attained the rank of Captain, and I was an enlisted man, but we had so many things in common, that we spent several hours each day sharing stories. He also liked the fact that I called him Captain, and in my opinion, he deserved this recognition, because he was
See OUTDOORS page 12
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12 Outdoors OUTDOORS
continued from page 11
an officer and a gentleman. During one of our conversations, the Captain told me about his flight missions in Vietnam, and confided that he flew spy planes deep into enemy territory, taking top secret pictures. His jet was equipped with high-tech cameras, but no weapons and many of these reconnaissance sorties were extremely dangerous. “We couldn’t defend ourselves.” Mr. Gray also confided, “Several
July 28, 2021 of my close friends were shot down and killed.” His most dangerous assignment involved talking photos of a particular NVA compound, and this was a suicide mission. Because of the mountainous terrain, there was only one avenue of approach, so they knew which direction you were coming from, and all of their antiaircraft guns were trained on this exact spot. In spite of the aviator’s protests, his commanding officer still gave the order to fly into this deathtrap. “I came in low and fast. I knew
where their guns were, so I climbed and banked right before reaching this point. The sky lit-up with enemy fire. I was at the threshold of G-forces, and it was a miracle that I didn’t pass-out, because technically, I should have,” the Captain recalled. “This was the most dangerous mission I’ve ever flown, and I survived.” When he returned to base, there wasn’t a scratch on his plane. Everyone in our hunting party took home nice, mature, management Bucks that week, and this was one of the most memorable hunts in my life. If
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we’ll take the time to talk to others, it’s amazing some of the things we’ll learn, and the inconceivable stories we’ll hear. Deer seasons are great, because you never know who you’re going to meet. If you’re interested in survival and other outdoor topics, I invite you to join our Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. Do you like podcast shows? You can find us on the OUACHITA PODCASTS, where you’ll also find other interesting, and extremely entertaining shows.
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July 28, 2021
Community 13
Prosecuting Attorney hosts continuing education for local law enforcement Submitted by Prosecuting Attorney’s Office Prosecuting Attorney D. Jason Barrett and his Chief Deputy, Debra Wood Buschman were pleased to host Bob McMahan, the Arkansas Prosecutor Coordinator as he gave the 2021 legislative update to local law enforcement agencies. The training was an opportunity for officers to learn about changes made in the last legislative session that impact them as they work out in the field. “We were very honored to have the Prosecutor Coordinator, Bob McMahan, educate local law enforcement officers on the newly enacted and amended laws. As the voice of Arkansas’ 28
elected Prosecutors to the Legislature, Mr. McMahan brings more than thirty (30) years’ experience in the judicial system, as well as an intimate understanding of the legislative process. Mr. McMahan is a long-time friend of law enforcement, and we were very grateful for his expertise as he updated us on new changes to the law,” said Chief Deputy Prosecutor, Debra Buschman. “We are also very grateful to the University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain for supporting local law enforcement education by providing such a beautiful space for the training at the Ouachita Center and to Sheriff Scott Sawyer for sponsoring lunch for the participants.” Officers from the Polk County Sher-
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Task Force, and Montgomery County Sheriff ’s Office attended the training. Lunch was provided by the Prosecutor’s Office and Polk County Sheriff, Scott Sawyer.
14 Community
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July 28, 2021
UARM pins LPN Class of 2021 Submitted by UARM In a tradition that dates back to the mid-1880’s, UA Rich Mountain held its pinning ceremony for the college’s LPN Class of 2019 on Thursday, July 1 in the Ouachita Center on campus. The time-honored pinning ceremony signifies membership in a proud and loyal society of nurses. Nurses are an important part of the global healthcare workforce. Representing the LPN Class of 2021 were: Angela Looney, Teaira Sims, Skiliera Ward, Brooke Hastey, Kelly Richmond, Tiffanie Owens, Amber Bissell, Caleb Avila, Vallie Barnett, Chandie Mitchell, Hailey Tackett, Conner McDermott, Sara Pleitner, John McIntyre, Haley Castillo, Monica Turner, Charity Titsworth, Belen Vasquez, Barbara Bernard, Mikala Austin, and Emily Wilhite. Charla Hollin, UA Rich Mountain’s Allied Health Division Chair, noted how sentimental the pinning ceremony is not only tradition and symbolic, it is also more intimate for the students and their friends/families, even beyond the graduation ceremonies.
As part of the ceremony, they have a lamp lighting, inspired by Florence Nightingale, who used a lamp to light her way as she made her rounds to the sick. To the injured, her visits brought feelings of comfort and friendliness. The bright flame has come to symbolize knowledge, enlightenment, experience and hope. This time-honored pinning ceremony signifies membership in a proud and loyal society of nurses, who are an important part of the global healthcare workforce. The UARM Nursing Program was recently recognized as the #2 program in the state by Best Value Schools: https://www.bestvalueschools.org/
DUGAN RESIDENTIAL ● COMMERCIAL LAWN CARE ● LANDSCAPING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
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lpn-programs-in-arkansas/ due to the graduates’ high pass rate on state licensure exams. Chancellor Phillip Wilson commended the class for their determina-
tion, noting the increased challenges of their academic year brought on by the on-going pandemic. “The front line is gaining an exceptionally well-trained and dedicated group of professionals.”
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Community 15
July 28, 2021
Master Gardener Program Taking Applications
Submitted by Extension Office
Gift of Growth
Photo courtesy of Master Gardeners
Want to be a Master Gardener? Applications are being taken in Polk County for persons who want to sharpen their horticultural skills and share their knowledge with others. The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is conducting the Master Gardener training program once a week for seven weeks, beginning September 23, 2021, at the Polk County Extension Education Center at 211 De Queen St., Mena. Enrollment will be limited to 25 participants, who, following training and receipt of the Master Gardener certification, are committed to donating 40 working hours and pursuing 20 additional learning hours in their county Master Garden Program. Instruction on basic botany, principles of horticulture, soils, and fertilizers, irrigation, pest control, and
Walmart has donated 12 carts full of live plants to Polk County Master Gardeners. These plants will be nurtured by the Master Gardeners until they can make their appearance at the 2022 annual Spring Plant Sale.
Are You Ready to Get Ready for the Polk County Fair? Submitted After Covid-19 canceled last year’s County Fair, the excitement is building that this year’s Fair will take place Tuesday, August 31 thru Sunday, September 4. The Fair Booklets are available to be picked up from the Polk County Cooperative Extension Office, 211 De Queen Street. The booklet explains the rules and details when the different entries are due. The end of August may seem like a long time away. But now is a good time to plan ahead. Just reading through the
Departments and Classes listed in the Booklet may give you ideas about what you might enter. It is plenty of time to take those snapshots of your entry for the Cutest Pet. And to think about which of your art, or crafts, or sewing projects would fit into which Class of entries. If you have a favorite plant, maybe this is a good time to re-pot it so it will look its best a few weeks from now. And don’t forget to plan what farm crops, or baked goods, or preserved foods you want to enter. Whatever your interests, there are many opportunities to participate. And that is the best way to really make this Fair YOUR fair!
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pesticide use. Other trainings include vegetable production, home fruit production, landscaping, and so much more. Cooperative Extension Service professionals, horticulture professionals, and other specialists in their field will conduct all training. A fee of $100 (or $150 for couples who share a book) covers books and other training materials. Final selection of participants from application and interviews. Deadline for applying is August 27, 2021. For details, contact the Polk County Extension office at (479)394-6018. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate or need materials in another format, please contact (479)394-6018 as soon as possible. Dial 711 for Arkansas Relay.
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July 28, 2021
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OLT Presents Broadway Musical “Little Women”
Submitted by OLT Rehearsals have been underway for Ouachita Little Theatre’s musical version of Little Women. Under the direction of Alexa Night and musical direction of Judy Kropp, this is sure to be one of the top shows of the new OLT season. The talented and experienced cast is ready to enchant local audiences August 6,7, 8 (Friday-Sunday) and 12,13,14 (Thursday-Saturday.) All performances are at 7:30 PM except for the Sunday matinee at 2:30 PM. Most people are familiar with the popular coming of age novel written in 1868 by Louisa Mae Alcott about the four March sisters living in “genteel poverty” in Concord, Massachusetts. In the beginning of the story, they are quite young, and the
story takes them through love, loss, marriage, and career. It remains one of the most beloved books of all time. This musical adaptation, unveiled on Broadway in 2005, was well received by audiences and critics. It focuses on Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy and their beloved Marmee struggling at home while their father is away serving as a Union Army chaplain during the civil war. The show is inter-cut with vignettes in which their lives are revealed, and the scenes depict recreations of the short stories that Jo has written in her attic studio. Interspersed with music and action, we get to meet the young suiters and the older characters who influence their lives. Director Night states, “The addition of singing to this fa-
miliar story makes it even more relatable in new and exciting ways. But the real draw to this particular production is the mind-blowingly talented cast. They bring these beloved characters to life in a way that I guarantee you have not seen before.” Tickets are on sale now at 610 Mena Street, Suite B on Thursdays and Fridays from 2:00 – 6:00 PM and Saturdays from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. You may get reserved seating or season tickets at that time. Tickets are also available at the door. Individual tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. If you are not vaccinated for Photo courtesy of Ouachita Little Theater COVID19, OLT advises you wear a mask as socially distanced seating will not be avail- April Burt, as Jo March, rehearses for the production of able for this show. Little Women.
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Sirens and Salute Photos courtesy of Linda Denton
The town of Hatfield has recently installed new early warning sirens at the fire station. The total cost for the sirens was $22,913 and was funded in part by a grant from USDA Rural Development for $16,000. A new flag was also recently purchased for the park.
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
July 28, 2021
New Member
Community 17
Staff photo The Mena-Polk County Chamber of Commerce welcome Burkes Outlet to the chamber with a ribbon cutting last week. The retail store is located in the Northside Shopping Center.
18 Community
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Pulse
July 28, 2021
Mena School Board holds July Meeting Submitted by Mena School District The Mena School Board met for their July meeting on Tuesday night, July 20th at the District Administration Building. Dr. Lee Smith began the meeting with the superintendent’s report & it included the district plans on dealing with the lingering COVID issues. He stated that strategies are in place to control the spread & that the plan is to operate as normal as possible. Additional guidance from the Arkansas Department of Education is expected next week. Dr. Smith also informed the board that the district will contract with Aramark to manage their concessions in 21/22. This should streamline the purchasing process & increase the efficiency of product management. Student organizations will continue to operate the concessions as they
have in the past Assistant Superintendent Bridget Buckley then informed the board of a new partnership with Reach University. Reach is a nonprofit university that offers job-embedded learning to help schools grow their own talent. This teacher education program will allow any district employee who qualifies an opportunity to earn a four-year degree. The program will focus on Para professionals but is available to any employee who works with students 10-15 hours per week. The board then approved the amended transportation salary schedule for 2021/2022. The only change was to sub route pay to meet new minimum wage standards. Next on the agenda was a bid for an insurance policy for bus & vehicle coverage. The board approved the bid from Farm Bureau Insurance In the amount of $19,277.58. The
premium is actually several thousand dollars lower than last year & will be active from August 2021 through August 2022. Approval was given, with no discussion, for the allotment of $200.00 to each campuses petty cash fund to start the year. Bridget Buckley then updated the board on numerous changes made in the recently concluded legislative session that will affect the district & it’s policies. Many of which will force changes to the building & athletic handbooks. These updates will be presented to the board at a later date. In other action a bid for the purchase of a vehicle for the superintendent was received in the amount of $44,700.00 from Mena Ford. Additional bids will be sought. The board gave Dr. Smith the authority to consider all bids & make the purchase. The board then considered a pro-
posal to replace the artificial turf at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium. The current turf had an expected lifespan of seven years & has now been in use for thirteen years. The board voted to partner with Field Turf & the installation of their Elite Turf product, which will have a life expectancy of ten years. The board also approved making the Bearcat Foundation the official fundraising arm for the project. Advertisements will be sold on the new turf to help pay for the project. The board was then made aware of Dr. Lee Smith’s intentions to mentor the new superintendent at the Cossatot River School District. This is a part of the School Superintendent Mentoring Program & includes the assignment of a trained mentor for first-year Arkansas school superin-
See MENA SCHOOLS page 19
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THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021
Around Town
Vacation Bible Schools
First Christian Church 1010 Port Arthur, Mena, July 25 - July 29, 6pm - 8:30pm for ages 4-12. Music, scripture, games, crafts and snacks. St. Agnes Catholic Church 203 8th St., July 26 – July 30, 5pm - 7:30pm for 4-year-olds – 6th grade. No cost, meals, T-shirts & crafts provided.
Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 am - Noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need. We kindly ask that non-vaccinated individuals wear masks. Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast every Tuesday, Mena First United Methodist Church, 8:00 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend. The annual Jewell reunion that was to be held on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at the Vandervoort Baptist Church has been canceled due to several family members contracting COVID. The Mena Art Gallery is hosting its annual Folk & Fiber Show through August 20th. The Gallery is open Wed – Sat from 10am - 3pm. Come by and see the show! 607 Mena Street, across from the Ouachita Little Theater.
Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8pm Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study For information call 479-243-0297 Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7pm Monday, at 7pm Thursday, at 7pm Friday, and at 6pm Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at 479-216-7249. GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10am -noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3pm Sundays, at 5pm. Tuesdays and at 8pm Saturdays at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-216-3786 Free Summer Lunch Program, Janssen Park pavilion, Tuesday’s July 6-Aug 10, 11:30 - 12:30 or until meals are gone. Drive-thru and pick-up sack lunch, or stay and eat at the pavilion. Sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church Mena. To donate, volunteer, or for more information call 479-234-3419 or 214-212-8012. A 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 479-2439600 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!
MENA SCHOOLS
Around Town 19
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tendents. The board approved. District maintenance supervisor Danny Minton updated summer projects across the district. Bids on new heating and air units at Holly Harshman Elementary & Mena Middle School will open on July 27th. The annual stripping & waxing of floors has been completed at LDE, MMS & MHS. Some cabinets & tiles have been replaced at HHE & some new play equipment installed. A new discus pad & surround has been installed in front of MMS. Some loose seating in the Performing Arts Center at MHS have been repaired. Minton said that numerous inspections must be passed before classes begin on August 16th. A disclosure statement was next on the agenda. The Union Bank of Mena supplies the district with financial services & Board members Kyle
Cannon & Phillip Wilson are affiliated with the Union Bank. Annually, board members, administrators, and employees are asked to list conflicts or potential conflicts, and sign a disclosure form. The board quickly approved the financial reports. The final item on the agenda was personnel. The board accepted the resignation of Deniece Jewell, Ray Willard, Patricia Jackson, LeAnn Ferguson & Melissa Ward. The board approved the hiring of: Katelin Hanes – Para Pro Jessica Hughes – Para Pro Kristi Schuller - Kindergarten Lana Coogan – Choir The board also approved the reassignment of Jennifer McCauley from MHS secretary to ISS Instructor at MHS & MMS.
20 Police Reports
July 28, 2021
The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG
July 19, 2021 Report of a vehicle being hit in a parking lot. Deputy responded. Report of an ATV accident on Polk 288 near Cove led to the arrest of Ricky D. Miller, 60, of Cove on two Warrants for Failure to Appear. Report from complainant on Polk 91 near Hatfield of the fraudulent use of a credit card. Deputy responded. July 20, 2021 Report of a disturbance on Stone Lane near Acorn. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Arrested was Royce T. Green, 45, of Mena, on a Warrant for Battery 3rd Degree. July 21, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 130 near Rocky of a theft. Deputy responded. July 22, 2021 Request for a welfare check on Hwy 71S near Hatfield. Deputy responded. Report of an accident on Hwy 71S near Cove. Deputy responded. Report of being harassed. Deputy responded. Report of a stolen phone cable on Hwy 8E near Board Camp. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 16 near Vandervoort of the theft of a boat valued at $900.00. Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. Report of two eighteen wheelers
blocking traffic on Hwy 71N near Acorn. Deputy responded. Traffic stop on Morrow Street near Mena led to the discovery of suspicious items. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges. July 23, 2021 Report from complainant on East Dawn Lane near Ink of the theft of an automotive reader valued at $3500.00. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 293 near Potter of checks being stolen and forged. Deputy responded. Investigation continues. Report of a vehicle accident on Polk 95 near Rocky led to the arrest of Christopher A. Gibson, 27, of Hatfield on a Charge of Public Intoxication. July 24, 2021 Report of a break in on South Old Cove Road near Cove. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 93 near Rocky led to the arrest of Zachary M. Abner, 29, of Watson, Oklahoma on a Warrant for Possession of Firearm by Certain Persons, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule I or II, and three Charges of Possession of Firearm by Certain Persons. Report from complainant on Deer Run Lane near Ink of the theft of a pistol and gift card valued at $250.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 31 near Cove of the theft of cash and jewelry for a total of losses valued at $2550.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Polk 179 near Acorn of the theft of a tractor valued at$3500.00. Deputy responded. Arrested was David H. Horton, 35, of Mena, on a Warrant for fraudulent
use of a credit card, a Warrant for Failure to Appear, and a Warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance. Arrested was Shelby K. Maddox, 29, of Mena, on a Charge of Furnishing Prohibited Articles. July 25, 2021 No reports filed. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked no vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 23 Incarcerated Inmates, with 6 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORTS July 18 Michelle Bice, 43, was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia at Bunch’s Laundromat. Billy Fletcher, 35, was charged with Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Disorderly Conduct, and served with a warrant at Bunch’s Laundromat. A report of assault was taken at a residence on Mama Mia Drive. July 19 A report of assault was taken at Mena Short Stop. David Heard, 34, was charged with Theft, Criminal Trespass, and served with a warrant atter a theft complaint from a residence on Evans Circle. Elizabeth Trusley, 27, was served with a warrant at the Probation and Parole Office. Tristan Chaney, 25, was served with three warrants after a traffic stop on 10th Street. July 20 Robert Morris, 20, was charged with DWI, Careless or Prohibited Driving, and Driving with a Suspended License after a traffic stop on Highway 71. Abram Abernathy, 24, was charged
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse with Public Intoxication and served with two warrants at the police department. David Heard, 34, was charged with Criminal Trespass, Littering, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia at EZ Mart. A report of violation of a no-contact order was taken from a walk-in complainant. Fernando Vecchio, 36, was charged with two counts of Theft at Walmart. Elena Hendershot, 38, was charged with DWI, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor after a traffic stop on Reine Street. A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. A report of assault was taken from a walk-in complainant. July 21 A report of theft was taken at a residence on Hamilton Avenue. Stacey Burnett, 35, was served with a warrant at the prosecutor’s office. Michael Curry, 34, was charged with Possession of Schedule 6 Controlled Substance, Possession of Schedule 4 Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and served with a warrant at the prosecutor’s office. A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken at a residence on 3rd Street. A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant. A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken from a walk-in complainant. July 22 A report of breaking or entering was taken at a residence on Oak Grove Avenue. A report of criminal mischief was taken at Mena Regional Health System. July 23 Maurizio Malucci, 33, was served with a warrant at a residence on Reine Street. April Scroggins, 39, was charged with Theft of Property (shoplifting) at Walmart.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse A report of Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Mischief was taken from a person at Beasly-Wood/Geyer-Quillin Funeral Home. Stacey Burnett, 35, was served with a warrant at the county jail. Chelsea Roba, 25, was served with three warrants at a residence on 9th Street. A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complaint.
POLK COUNTY ARRAIGNMENTS David T. Sinyard, white male, age 45, is accused of Count I: Failure to Appear, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about June 14, 2021, the said defendant, did unlawfully fail to appear to answer a felony charge in CR-2021-137 (CT. I: Failure to Appear, a Class “C” Felony) without reasonable excuse. Count II: Failure to Appear, a Class “D” Felony, in that on or about June 14, 2021, the said defendant, did unlawfully fail to appear to answer a felony charge in CR-2018-125-1 (CT. I: Furnishing, etc. Pro, Articles, a Class “C” Felony; CT. II: Criminal Trespass, a Class “B” Misdemeanor) without reasonable excuse. David Earl Milam, white male, age 54, is accused of Count I: Threatening a Judicial Official on or before July 8, 2021, the said defendant did threaten a Judicial Official, directly or indirectly uttered or otherwise made a threat toward another person whom the person knows or should know to be a Judicial official, constituting a Class “B” Felony. Count II: Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree on or before July 8, 2021, the said Defendant did unlawfully and feloniously, with the purpose of terrorizing another person, threaten to cause death or serious physical injury or substantial property damage to another person, constituting a Class “D” Felony.
July 28, 2021 Benjamin “DJ” Farley, white male, age 22, is accused of Count I: Possession of a Schedule II controlled substance on or about May 5, 2021, the said defendant, unlawfully possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in an amount of less than two grams (2g), a Class “D” Felony. Allen Timothy Starr, white male, age 49, is accused of Count I: Aggravated Assault, in that on or about June 11, 2021, the said defendant did display a firearm in such a manner that created a substantial danger of death or serious physical injury to another person, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Count II: Aggravated Assault, in that on or about June 11, 2021, the said defendant did display a firearm in such a manner that created a substantial danger of death or serious physical injury to another person, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Count III: Criminal Mischief in the First Degree in that on or about June 11, 2021, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice, did purposefully and without legal justification destroy or cause damage to property in one criminal episode with an actual amount of damage of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or less, constituting a Class “A” Misdemeanor. Count IV: Refusal to Submit to Arrest, in that on or about June 11, 2021, the said Defendant did refuse to submit to arrest by knowingly resisting a person known by him to be a law enforcement officer effecting an arrest, constituting a Class “B” Misdemeanor. Charles E. Walker, black male, age 72, is accused of Count I: Theft of Leased, Rented, or Entrusted Personal Property, in that on or about July 9, 2020, the above named defendant failed to return or make an arrangement acceptable with the lessor to return the personal property to the owner within five (5) days, excluding Saturday, Sunday, or a state or federal holiday, after proper notice following the expiration of the lease or rental agreement, with said value of the property being
less than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) but more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), constituting a Class “C” Felony. Bobby Eugene Hedrick, white male, age 49, is accused of Count I: Possession of Methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about June 25, 2021, the said Defendant, unlawfully possessed methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver in an aggregate weight of less than two grams (2g). Count II: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, in that on or about June 25, 2021, did possess with the purpose to use the drug paraphernalia to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce methamphetamine into the human body, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Count III: Maintaining A Drug Premises, in that on or about June 25, 2021, said Defendant did knowingly to keep or maintain any store, shop, warehouse. dwelling, building, or other structure or place or premise that is resorted to by a person for the purpose of using or obtaining a controlled substance, conduct constituting a Class “C” Felony. Lea Marie Fox, white female, age 41, is accused of Count I: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, in that on or about June 25, 2021, did possess with the purpose to use the drug paraphernalia to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce methamphetamine into the human body, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Brandon A. Duncan, white male, age 30; is accused of Count I: Theft of Property on or about June 6, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice to. did unlawfully and knowingly take or exercise unauthorized control over property, 1982 Toyota, valued at less than Five thousand dollars, ($5,000) but more than One thousand ($1,000) with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof, a Class “D” Felony. Count II: Theft of property on or about June 6, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice to, did unlawfully and knowingly
Arraignments 21 take over or exercise unauthorized control over property, Can Am UTV, valued at less than Five thousand dollars ($5,000) but more than One thousand dollars ($1,000) with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof, a Class “D” Felony. Count III: Theft of property on or about June 29, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice to, did unlawfully and knowingly take or exercise unauthorized control over property, 1994 Chevrolet truck, valued at less than Five thousand dollars, ($5,000) but more than One thousand ($1,000) with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof, a Class “D” Felony. Count IV: Theft of property on or about July 8, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice to, did unlawfully and knowingly take or exercise unauthorized control over property, 2003 GMC Z71 truck, valued at less than Five thousand dollars, ($5,000) but more than One thousand ($1,000) with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof, a Class “D” Felony. Count V-VI: Breaking or Entering, on or about June 6, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice, did unlawfully and feloniously break or enter a building, structure or vehicle of another with the purpose of committing a theft, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Count VII: Breaking or Entering, on or about June 29, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice, did unlawfully and feloniously break or enter a building, structure or vehicle of another with the purpose of committing a theft, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Count VIII: Breaking or Entering, on or about July 8, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice, did unlawfully and feloniously break or enter a building, structure or vehicle of another with the purpose of committing a theft, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Brandon A. Duncan, white male, age 30, is accused of Count I: Theft of Property on or about December 24, 2019, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice did unlawfully and knowingly take or exercise unauthorized control over property, 1992 GMC
22 Arraignments Sierra, valued at less than Five thousand dollars, ($5,000) but more than One thousand ($1,000) with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof, a Class “D” Felony. Brandon A. Duncan, white male, age 30, is accused of Count I: Theft of Property, a Class “B” Felony, in that on or about July 15, 2020-July 17, 2020, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice to Christopher Pollard, did unlawfully and knowingly take or exercise unauthorized control over property, 1992 GMC Sierra, valued Twenty-five thousand dollars, ($25,000) or more with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof. Michael L. Lance, white male, age 57, is accused of Count I: Failure to Appear, a Class “D” Felony, in that on or about April 12, 2021, the said defendant, did unlawfully fail to appear in CR 2015-005-1, without reasonable excuse, subsequent to having been lawfully set at liberty upon condition that he appear at a specified time, place, and court for a revocation hearing. Nathaniel J. Noble, white male, age 35, is accused of Count I: Failure to Appear, a Class “D” Felony, in that on or about May 12, 2021, the said defendant, did unlawfully fail to appear in CR 2016-141-1 (Ct. I Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a class “D” Felony), without reasonable excuse, subsequent to having been lawfully set at liberty upon condition that he appear at a specified time, place, and court for a revocation hearing. Shealeena Phillips, white female, age 36, is accused of Count I: Possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, in that on or about June 25, 2021, the said defendant, unlawfully possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in an amount of less than Two grams (2g), a Class “D” Felony; Count II: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, that on or about June 25, 2021, did possess with the pur-
July 28, 2021 pose to use the drug paraphernalia to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce methamphetamine into the human body, constituting a Class “D” Felony; Count III: Maintaining a Drug Premises, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about June 25, 2021, said Defendant did knowingly to keep or maintain any store, shop, warehouse, dwelling, building, or other structure or place or premise that is resorted to by a person for the purpose of using or obtaining a controlled substance, conduct constituting a Class “C” Felony. Steven Odell Hedrick, white male, age 54, is accused of Count I: Possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, in that on or about June 25, 2021, the said defendant, unlawfully possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in an amount of less than Two grams (2g), a Class “D” Felony. Count II: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, in that on or about June 25, 2021, did possess with the purpose to use the drug paraphernalia to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce methamphetamine into the human body, constituting a Class “D” Felony. Count III: Maintaining a Drug Premises, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about June 25, 2021, said Defendant did knowingly to keep or maintain any store, shop, warehouse, dwelling, building, or other structure or place or premise that resorted to by a person for the purpose of using or obtaining a controlled substance, conduct constituting a Class “C’ Felony. Ronda Renee Whisenhunt, white female, age 53, is accused of Count I: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, in that on or about June 25, 2021, did possess with the purpose to use the drug paraphernalia to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce methamphetamine into the human body, constituting a Class “D” Felony; Count II: Maintaining a Drug Premises, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about June 25, 2021, said Defendant did knowingly to keep or maintain any store, shop,
warehouse, dwelling, building, or other structure or place or premise that is resorted to by a person for the purpose of using or obtaining a controlled substance, conduct constituting a Class “C” Felony. Timothy S. Woods, white male, age 45, is accused of Count I: Delivery of Methamphetamine or Cocaine, in that on or about November 5, 2019, the said defendant did, acting alone or as an accomplice, deliver methamphetamine to another person in a quantity of two grams (2g) or more but less than ten grams (10g) by aggregate weight including diluents or adulterants, constituting a Class “B” Felony. Count II: Possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance, in that on or about November 5, 2019, the said defendant, unlawfully possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in an amount of Two grams (2g) or more but less than ten grams (10g), said possession constituting a Class “C” Felony. Bradley J. Crawford, white male, age 26, an Arrest Warrant was issued June 17, 2021, Count I: Probation Violation (Original Offense: Poss of Sched. II Contr. Subst., Methamphetamine, Poss. Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Contr. Subst., Marijuana). $5,000 bond. Brandy Crawford, white female, age 47, is accused of Count I: Possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance, a Class “D” Felony, in that on or about May 1, 2021, the said defendant did possess a scheduled I or II controlled substance, with an aggregate weight of less than 2 grams. Brandy Crawford, white female, age 47, is accused of Count I: Failure to Appear, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about May 10, 2021, the said defendant, did unlawfully fail to appear to answer a felony charge in CR-2021115 (CT. I: Poss. Of Sched. II Ctr/. Sub., in violation of Ark. Code Ann.§
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
5-64-419(b)(l)(a), a Class “D” Felony; CT. II: Poss. Drug Para., in violation of Ark. Code Ann. §5-64- 443(a)(2), a Class “D” Felony; CT. Ill: Poss. Sched. JV or V Ctr/. Sub., in violation of Ark. Code Ann.§5-64-419(b)(4)(A), a Class “A” Misdemeanor) without reasonable excuse, subsequent to having been lawfully set at liberty upon condition that she appear at a specified time, place, and court. Count II: Failure to Appear, a Class “C” Felony, in that on or about May 10, 2021, the said defendant, did unlawfully fail to appear to answer a felony charge in CR-2021-99 (CT. I: Poss. of Sched. JI Ctr/. Sub., in violation of Ark. Code Ann.§ 5-64- 419(b) (l)(a), a Class “D” Felony; CT. II: Poss. Drug Para., in violation of Ark. Code Ann. §5-64- 443(c), a Class “D” Felony) without reasonable excuse, subsequent to having been lawfully set at liberty upon condition that she appear at a specified time, place, and court. Jason Levi Cox, white male, age 40, is accused of Count I: Theft of Property, in that on or about July 11, 2021, the said defendant, acting alone or as an accomplice, did unlawfully and knowingly take or exercise unauthorized control over property, with the purpose of depriving the owner thereof, said property being valued at less than Twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) but more than Five thousand dollars ($5,000), constituting a Class “C” Felony. Noel Aaron Myers, white male, age 36, is accused of Count I: Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons, in that on or about July 11, 2021, the abovenamed defendant, being a convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a firearm, constituting a Class “D” Felony; Count II: Violation of an Order of Protection in that on or about July 11, 2021, the above-named defendant, did violate the conditions of an order of protection, constituting a Class “A” Misdemeanor.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 23
July 28, 2021
07.28.21
07.28.21
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 07.21.21
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! Meet Little Sadie and Riley. Both are these little ladies weigh under 15 pounds and are super happy and loving. They can both be a bit shy at first but they warm up quickly. Once they warm up, they are wonderful small little beings of joy. They are both sisters who have been best friends since birth. They would do best if they could stay together in their new home. They help and support each other. They are also both good with other dogs and cats. They would be an amazing addition to any home! All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for dogs includes a collar, toy, clothing, and harness selection. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.
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
24 Classifieds CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES RELIGION
Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call Wendell’s Tree Service (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328 T1006
Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0811 Land Management, Tree Service—. RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479) 216-2976. Free estimates T0911
- EMPLOYMENT Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced TIG Welder for a permanent day shift position. The applicant must be proficient in welding aluminum. 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. T0804
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY will accept applications along with a required resume for the position of Maintenance Mechanic “A”. Drug testing and criminal background check will be a requirement. Persons interested in applying may pick up an application along with a complete job description at the Housing Authority office located at 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR between the hours of 8:30 and 4 Monday through Friday. Applications and the required resume should be returned to 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR on or before August 30, 2021. No applications will be accepted after that date. The Polk County Housing Authority is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021
Fire & Brimstone REVEAL Salvation Issues Not one spot, or blemish. Ephesians 5:27 Revelation 3:2 & 3:5, & 20:15 is foreboding. We who do His commandments may have right to the tree of life. Revelation 22:14 The 4th Commandment is Saturday, the true Sabbath. Believe on the Lord and thou shalt be saved. Acts 16:31 (Means–we do what He tells us, not just know about it.) Grace is meant to be used, to accomplish difficult salvation issues; (like your perfection). You can’t say you are saved because you have grace, unless you use grace to overcome your salvation issues, otherwise, you fool yourself. This is why scripture says…many called… few chosen. Do you now realize it is time to study with the Holy Spirit before it’s too late? T0728
Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System JUNE 16, 2021 TO JULY 23, 2021 Mercede Moss & Tristan Ingle of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born July 17th Georgia & Chris Perez of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born July 20th Chelsea McKiski & Jammie Yandell of Danville, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born July 23rd
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479-437-4057 by Desirée Eldon Doré For daily affirmation follow us on Facebook/AwkwardAwakenings August is about embracing the essence of the brave Lion and moving forward with confidence. Power Colors: Yellow and Blue Happy Birthday Leos! You have everything you need to make your dreams come true. August amps up you manifestation skills. Identify your wants, know they can be yours and give gratitude as if it’s already yours. Be mindful of your words and thoughts. Even your jokes hold the power to create. Virgo: Are you ready to receive without any expectation? The full moon washes away your fears and anxieties so you can embrace your childlike wonder. Give yourself permission to enjoy the process of life. Libra: Take action! You’ve seen what you want, now go get it. This can either be in your day-to-day life or romance. Take your shot! Write the poem, ask for the raise, or take the trip. We only fail when we refuse to try. Focus: Romance Scorpio: Sometimes the prize isn’t worth the means. Check your motives and make sure you are willing to pay the price to play. Play dumb games, get dumb prizes. Sagittarius: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take time to do the things you enjoy. Focus on what YOU want and how YOU want to feel. Loving yourself doesn’t take anything away from anyone else. Capricorn: Give gratitude and take time to appreciate all you’ve worked for. Stop and look around. You have created a beautiful life. Celebrate all you’ve accomplished and yourself. Aquarius: Allow your energy to flow. A constant search for balance can leave one out of harmony with one’s self. Ask for harmony in all aspects of your life.
Pisces: The answer is No. You’ve found yourself grieving and heart broken as of late. Allow yourself grace to feel these intense emotions. Honor the tears and know that they are releasing all you’ve been holding on to. Be the sensitive fish, the world has enough bad babes. Aries: Be Bold! Assert yourself in your life and in making your dreams come true. Know that you are able to accomplish anything you put your mind to. Leave doubt behind and trust yourself. Taurus: Ground your energy and allow the spark of creativity to take over. You might be looking at things through a new lens; keep looking. The answers come when you allow yourself to receive them. Embrace your new path. Gemini: Your boundaries might have been tested but your faith is strong. You’ve been knocked down a few times but it’s your perseverance that keeps you coming back for more. Keep pushing. It may feel like your constantly being tested, and you are! You have greatness in front of you and every trial brings you that much closer to the prize. Cancer: Dark thoughts keeping you up at night? Your constant worry is creating your fears, leaving you stressed and anxious. Try focusing on your beautiful future rather than the tribulations of the past. Take the actions you know you need to. It’s time. Affirmation: I release all that is not serving me. I set boundaries and others respect them. I am a miracle magnet. I am in harmony with myself, my experience and in all my relationships. Health. Wealth. Success. *I give myself permission to experience life. I flow with ease through life.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021
Community 25
Christmas in July held Downtown in Mena
Several downtown businesses and community organizations participated in Christmas in July, organized by Mena Downtown Business Partners. At right, clockwise from top right, Jennifer Schubbe, owner of Books and Stuff, collects names for the event’s $250 cash prize raffle; Luci and Christye Byrne offer goods and food at the Old Farmhouse; Jim Abbott holds a special on Christmas decor at Coast to Coast; and Ann McAllister and Dori Walker present the Christmas in July window display at Allbaughs.
Photos by Jeri Pearson
At left, Santa (Scotty Jenkins) and elf-helpers Donner (Emma Vieira) and Dasher (Gracie Baker) offer photo opportunities with Santa in front of the Ouachita Little Theater. At left, center, Katie Norris tries her hand at crafts offered by Mena Art Gallery, while Evie Norris (center of bottom left photo) prepares to have her face-painted by Jean Johnson. Bottom photo, several non-profit and community organizations offered concessions, baked goods and other items for sale as fundraisers during the event, which was held Friday afternoon and Saturday.
26 Community
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021
Cool Way to Cool Off
Membership makes a difference AirMedCare and Southwest EMS were available to answer questions about membership at the Mena-Polk County Chamber of Commerce outside the depot Friday afternoon. Photo by Jeri Pearson
CutestPet made possible by your friends at
Sassie (top ) Sparkles (bottom)
Six Lucky Winners! REGISTER AT ONE OR MORE OF THESE LOCAL SPONSORS
1000 B. Hwy 71 N Mena, AR 71953
then listen to 104.1 KENA every Friday during the noon hour between July 2nd and August 6th to see if you are a lucky winner!
479-216-2055 Submitted by Submit your cute pet to
DogDays Days Dog Summer ofofSummer COOLDOWN DOWN COOL 2021! 2021!
Will each receive a 4-pack of tickets to Magic Springs Theme & Water Park
service@dbcollision.com
pulsemmnews@mypulsenews.com
Mena Fire Department participated in Christmas in July Friday afternoon by helping Mena Downtown Partners created a “melted snow storm” for youth and the young at heart to enjoy during the blistering heat. Photos by Trey Youngdahl
The Huff Family
TJ's Convenience Store - E Hornbeck Ave, Hatfield Davis Brothers Collision - 1000 Hwy 71 N, Mena Gabriel Clothing - 601 Hwy 71 N Suite P, Mena Freedom Pharmacy - 710 4th St, Mena Miller Signs & Graphix/Quicksilver - 1100 HWY 71N Ste.E, Mena Allbaugh's Florist and Gifts - 709 Mena St, Mena Also Sponsored by: ACCI - Mena & Area Solar - Hatfield (these boxes are available at The Polk County Pulse 1168 Hwy 71S Mena)
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021
Car Show and Carnival held for charity Photos by Jeri Pearson Children’s Miracle Network held a car show and carnival Friday and Saturday at Walmart’s Auto Center in Mena to raise funds for the non-profit. All funds raised will remain in Arkansas.
Community 27
28
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
July 28, 2021
Randall Shreve
Ashtyn Barbaree
1st Annual
Ouachita Nights & July 30 31 5pm-10pm
Live Music ● Great Food & Beverages Come Out and Enjoy at
821 Mena Street, Mena, Arkansas Ouachita Nights will be held outside on Martin Avenue.