Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
October 13, 2021
Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com
Hope in the face of breast cancer
INSIDE:
The most common cancer globally
By Trey Youngdahl
New UARM Appointment
Page 2
Cossatot Homecoming
Page 28
Carol Sickles, a Mena native, was a normal person. She enjoyed spending time with her husband, Clay, and her daughter, Heather—doing all the things a normal, healthy woman does. Until, that is, in the fall of 2010, when she and her family were rocked by the news that she had breast cancer. She was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. Also known as IDC, it is the most common type of breast cancer, making up about 80% of all female breast cancer cases, and about 90% of all male cases. It starts with the cancer growing in a milk duct and then invading the fibrous or fatty tissue of the breast outside of the duct. Sickles had gone from spending time with family, to being spun into a whirlwind of medication and Carol Sickles - “Just because you have breast cancer doesn’t mean it’s doctor appointments. She never even once let it get her down though. the end.” (Photo by Trey Youngdahl)
Throughout all of it, she kept her head held high and trusted God to keep her steadfast. “I never even considered the possibility of dying,” she said. “I knew my faith would carry me through.” While most breast cancer patients are able to stay strong, not all of them have the same will that Sickles had to keep it together. She felt she was being called to help other sufferers. In 2010 she got involved with Clarice’s Room of Hope. Clarice’s Room of Hope is a local non-profit organization in Mena dedicated to the service of cancer patients. It was founded after organizer, Teena Brown, lost her mother to cancer. The mission of the organization: At Clarice’s Room of Hope, we strive to strengthen mind and body by providing services that boost the self-worth of cancer patients; we do our best to help our clients enjoy their lives to the
See CANCER continued on page 22
Traffic stop leads to discovery of Methamphetamines worth thousands
Entertainment District Battle
Page 4
Polk County Sheriff ’s Office and 18th Judicial West DTF arrest 2 and seize large amount of Methamphetamines. On Friday October 8, 2021, at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office and the 18th Judicial West DTF conducted a traffic stop on Hwy. 8 West and Polk 95. During the traffic stop and subsequent search of the
vehicle, Deputies discovered approximately 1 pound of Methamphetamines. Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said the approximate value, “…varies based on where in the country and how it’s sold. I’d say $20,000-$25,000. It could be as high as $50,000 in some places.”
See METH continued on page 15
2 News
October 13, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Miller Named New Vice-Chancellor of Finance and Administration
Chancellor Dr. Phillip Wilson has announced Kate Miller as UA Rich Mountain’s new Vice-Chancellor of Finance and Administration. Miller replaces Morris Boydstun who has announced his retirement from that role but plans to continue as the Bucks Athletic Director and Assistant to the Chancellor. Miller is a 7th generation Polk County resident who graduated from Mena High School while also taking concurrent classes through [then] Rich Mountain Community College. She is a strong advocate for junior/community colleges, attending Connors State College on a livestock judging scholarship. “I highly advocate the junior college route, both for cost savings but also from a maturity standpoint. JuCo gave me the opportunity to grow up a little more before being released into the ‘wild’.” Miller later earned her bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University. Miller, who has worked across the
tour, I was shocked at how much the campus footprint has grown. The addition of the dorms, student union and sports complex are really an asset to the institution; and I am looking forward to seeing how these additions strengthen recruiting abilities.” Miller added that the experience she has obtained while developing her career make her an ideal fit for her new role. “I have had many unique experiences in my decade-long stint in sales and operations, and while I have many new things to learn, I know there is a great team in place to help make that transition easier. As opposed to the private sector where my focus was on efficiency, my role here will be based on ensuring the experience that UARM students have on campus. This college provides many Kate Miller has been named UARM’s in the region with the opportunity new vice-chancellor of finance and to reach their own goals, and so I see administration. (Submitted photo) my role as a supporting cast member country since leaving Mena, is astoundto that endeavor by supporting the proed at the changes the college has underfessors, staff, students and programs gone. “When I came back for the initial
that make our campus unique.” Wilson is proud to welcome someone with such strong local roots to this administrative role, “You hate to lose someone as experienced as Morris, who is responsible for so much of the strategic growth of the college, so we are very grateful that he will continue with us in a different capacity. Kate brings a wealth of experience in business development and operations, along with her enthusiastic appreciation to return home and make a significant impact. We couldn’t be more proud to have her on board with our Rich Mountain family.” With a renewed appreciation for this part of the country and the people who live here, Miller added, “There is something so special about this town. Yes, there is no privacy, you can never get out of Walmart without seeing half the people you know, and we don’t all see life the same way; but we are all truly
See MILLER continued on page 22
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
Radio - Print - Web
Want to share your opinion?
1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
KENA 104.1 - KQOR 105.3 MyPulseNews.com
The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language.
Our Team: Ashley Smith - General Manager
The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request.
Ethan Nahté - Production Manager Trey Youngdahl - Reporter / Photographer Patrick Massey - Contributing Reporter John Russell - Graphic Design Curt Teasdale - Programmer / On-Air Personality
Room of Hope
Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Ariel Varner - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff: Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Edward Werkhoven
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.
The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after-hour convenience.
Jim Pinson - Morning Personality
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.
News 3
Together we will rise above breast cancer!
TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS Email: NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM
4 News
October 13, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
The Ouachitas draws a crowd at City Hall
by Ethan Nahté
The Mena city council committee initially began with a short agenda for their Oct. 5, 2021, meeting. The agenda was amended and the length of the meeting doubled for a couple of additional items. The primary issue was the consideration of the The Ouachitas (a.k.a. Ouachita Coffee Roasters ) entertainment district request. Although not a necessarily long meeting, a small crowd of 30-40 people had assembled to challenge the request of The Ouachitas’ owner Derek Campbell to have a public event for both children and adults. October 29 and 30. The coffee house/ eatery is celebrating their third anniversary as a business, and their first anniversary as a brewery. Campbell announced to the committee and audience the event would be partnering with the Humane Society of the Ouachitas for a pet adoption. He also welcomed other businesses and vendors to participate. Campbell emphasized he was trying to help bring the community together for the event, intending on being a part of the Halloween activities with a walk-thru Trick or Treat Trail on Martin St., outside of The Ouachitas on Saturday, Oct. 30. Hosted by local businesses, the trail would allow children to trick or treat for candy, and show off their costumes. The city will have a drive-thru Trick or Treat trail at Janssen Park from 3:305:30. If allowed, The Ouachitas event would start at 4 and end at approxi-
mately at 6 p.m. or a little sooner, with hopes that families have time to attend both.
The Ouachitas owner Derek Campbell presents his side of the argument for a temporary downtown entertainment district the weekend of Halloween. (photo by Ethan Nahté)
Several concerned citizens argued they did not want children in the vicinity of The Ouachitas, believing the activities planned for later those evenings would endanger the children or allow them to illegally obtain alcohol. Campbell’s plan is to close off the street around 6 p.m. to allow The Ouachitas to set up for the entertainment district at the corner of Mena St. and Martin Ave. The event will include a live band and allow patrons to take alcoholic beverages outside the building but staying within the cordoned off area to enjoy the music and socialize in an open space. The first question Campbell answered was if The Ouachitas intended on selling hard liquor. Campbell said they would only be selling wine and their microbrew beers.
News
Pastor Ron Tilley, of Mena First Assembly of God, brought up that the event would involve citizens drinking and driving. He said that if the Mena City Council approved the application, then any negative results would place the responsibility on the council. Jodi Croft, of Transcendence Energy Bodywork & Naturals, supported Campbell and the events. Croft was interrupted on more than one occasion with members of the church congregation arguing against her, requiring Mayor Seth Smith to put a stop to the debate before the meeting broke down. Some parents believed their teenage children will either be sneaking into the closed off area, or perhaps reaching over the demarcation line and being slipped a drink. One parent argued her 17-year-old is a teen and teen’s aren’t easy to control. Again, there was an attempt to place the potential for blame on the city and The Ouachitas if the event was allowed to occur. Campbell stated, “We’re not encouraging alcohol. We’re encouraging community.” He said that alcohol sales only made up 23% of his business, prompting questions that if profits were so small, why did he need alcohol at all. The reply was that although the business sold coffee and food, some people prefer alcohol with their pizza, for instance, versus some other beverage. Again, Campbell attempted to make it clear, saying “I’m not trying to get people drunk. I’m not breaking any laws. I’m asking for an opportunity for people to gather, to enjoy themselves.
I’m trying to create a bigger space for them to do that, inside and outside. I’m doing it within the regulations.” Council member Larry Stewart added, “The kids have to take some responsibility.” The commission voted and approved the application to be presented to the council the following Tuesday, Oct. 12. The majority of the room cleared out after the vote, many of the attendees leaving disgruntled. Only a handful of citizens stayed for the remainder of the meeting. Other agenda items included: * Passed, the discussion of changing the inspection fees for electrical or plumbing in new residential builds. The fees have not been changed since 1961. * Passing the discussion of dirt work to build pads for two new restrooms at Janssen Park at a cost of $19,500 and one new restroom at McMillan Park at a cost of $9,750. The amounts do not include the building of sidewalks or the buildings and plumbing utilities or fixtures. * Passing an ordinance to accept Michelle Dr. as a dedicated street. * Passing an ordinance to rezone property 1121 Hwy. 71 S (E-Z Mart store) from an R-3 Zone (residential) to a C-2 (commercial) zone. * Passing a request to sign a Memorandum of Agreement between The Arkansas Natural Resources commission and the City of Mena to establish a 20year loan of $7 million for the funding of improvements at Iron Fork Water Treatment Plant. The meeting then adjourned.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Obituaries 5
October 13, 2021
Aline (Craig) Brown
Aline (Craig) Brown passed away Thursday, September 30, 2021, in Centerton, Arkansas. She was born on February 5, 1928, to the late Earl and Jessie (Wood) Craig, in Chino, California. Mrs. Aline Brown was a seamstress and homemaker by profession. She was an avid seamstress who enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and sewing. She was also known to have a green thumb and could be often found gardening. Mrs. Brown also enjoyed singing, attending church, dancing, listening to music, and reading. Mrs. Aline Brown is preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Jessie (Wood) Craig; her beloved husband, Owen Brown, brothers, Bon Craig, and Dale Craig; and by her sister, Pauline Guinn. She is survived by her sons, David and wife Tamhra Brown of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Jeffrey and wife Fredia Brown of Watts, Oklahoma; daughters, Donne and husband Randy Johnson of Mena, Arkansas, and Jennie Brown and husband Andrew Milburn of Springdale, Arkansas; grandchildren, Patrick Brown, Karee Buckner, Jamie Walker, Derek Cochran, Chris Johnson, Corey Brown, Jessica Brent, Brannon Pack, Sarah Loge, and Susie Johnson; twenty great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. Services for Mrs. Brown will be held at Beasley-Wood Chapel, Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., with Brother Tim Rose officiating the services. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park, visitation is scheduled for Monday, October 4, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Pallbearers are Patrick Brown, Tony Craig, Chris Johnson, Colby Brown, Andrew Milburn, and
Gregg Buckner. Honorary Pallbearers are David Brown, Jeff Brown, Randy Johnson, and Paul Garner. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Michael Drannon Carpenter
Mi c h a e l “Snapper” Drannon Carpenter, age 55, passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021, in Tyler, Texas. He was born July 21, 1966, in Mena, Arkansas, to the late Donald Carpenter and the late Lennis Sue Westmoreland. He was an officer for the Mena Police Department, and the Grannis Police Department, then later was co-owner of Snappy-Mac’s Sports Bar. He worked for Chevron Pipeline as a chief inspector and was an avid motorcyclist. He had a passion for Harley-Davidson bikes, and built and worked on them, as well as loving to ride with his club, The Gravediggers, or on his own. He was a true character and, once you knew him, you would never forget him, and he will be genuinely missed. He is survived by his daughter Amber Fendley and husband Casey and their children Cloey, Sully, Averly, Cash, Carlin and Conlon; his father, Mac Westmoreland; his grandfather Harlan Carpenter; his Aunt, Sharon Jewell and husband Donnie; cousins Keith Ray and Misty Dearing; his former wife; Tina Kelley; and his former partner, Candon Burrell as well other family and friends too great to mention. He was preceded in death by his mother Lennis Sue Westmoreland, father Donald Carpenter, maternal grandparents JC and Isabel Ray, and his paternal grandmother Faye Carpenter. Funeral services will be Monday, October 4, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at
the Crossing Church with Brother Donnie Jewell officiating. Interment follows in Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Sunday evening, October 3rd from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Joyce Evelyn White
Joyce Evelyn White, age 78, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, October 1, 2021, in Texarkana. She was born July 22, 1943, to the late Ballard Waller and the late Mable Dennis Waller. She was married to the late Jerry White for fifty years. She was a teacher by profession and loved all her students. She loved to watch old Westerns, to crochet, do canning, sew and enjoyed art and crafts. She especially loved working at her church, Lakeview Baptist. Joyce was a loving sister, aunt, and a friend to all she met. She is survived by her sister, Donita Almand (Dale) of Prescott, Arkansas; brothers- and sisters-inlaw, Colin White, Roy Harris, Troy and Gale Harris, Connie Golden, all of Mena, Arkansas, and Brenda Waller of Emerson, Arkansas. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jerry White, her brother, Troy Waller, and her sisters-in-law, Sue Harris and Hilda White. Graveside services will be Monday, October 4, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at the White Oak Cemetery with Brother Steve Raines officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general. Pallbearers will be her nephews. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Jimmy David Knighten
Jimmy David Knighten, age 65, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Monday, October 4, 2021, at his home. He was born on Tuesday, February 28, 1956, to David and Virginia Knighten in Frederick, Oklahoma. Jimmy attended Tahlequah Northeastern State College where he was remembered as a talented tennis player and joined a fraternity where he made many lifelong friends. He loved sports of all kinds but particularly baseball and was a collector of all sorts of sports memorabilia. In his youth, Jimmy enjoyed riding his motorcycle with his friends any chance he was given. Jimmy was a good friend and will be missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Wayne Schulte of Greenwood, Arkansas, and a host of other relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Mena, Arkansas. Cremation Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
6 Obituaries
THE POLK COUNTY
October 13, 2021
Roxie R. (Ren) Moll
Mrs. Roxie R. (Ren) Moll, age 76, passed away Thursday, October 7, 2021, in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. She was born November 06, 1944, to the late Ralph, and Phyillis (Ballard) Ren, in Rockford, Illinois. Mrs. Moll was a CNA by profession, and enjoyed crafting, needle point, and gardening. Mrs. Roxie Moll is preceded in death by, her parents, Ralph and Phyillis Ren; two brothers, Kerry and Johnny Ren; and by her sister Irene. She is survived by her loving husband, Dale Moll; daughters, Annette Hubbard of Cove, Arkansas; grandchildren, Amanda Abbatt, and Melissa Baker; greatgrandchildren, Emily Baker, Kyle Baker, Eric Baker, Alexis Duff, Cole Duff, Spencer Abbott, and Kaylynn Abbott; brothers, Bobby and Steve Ren; sisters, Jackie, Kim, Rogene, and Mary; as well as friend Larry Jones. A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, October 14, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at The Crossing Church in Mena, Arkansas. Mrs. Moll’s cremation services have been entrusted to BeasleyWood Funeral Home. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Sonny Peek
Sonny Peek, age 75, of Hatfield, died Friday, October 8, 2021, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on May 29, 1946, to Willie Peek and Iva (Hughes) Peek in Alder Springs. Sonny was a loving father, broth-
er, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend and will be deeply missed by all who were a part of his life. Sonny was a generous and hardworking man. He was a simple man who loved living a simple life. Sonny loved his Casserole brand pinto beans, fried taters, and buttermilk corn bread. Whether at Weyerhaeuser, at any one of a number of sawmills, chopping and delivering firewood, or whittling tools with his pocketknife, he was always working with wood. Sonny loved being outdoors. He and his wife, Patricia, loved to drive all over Arkansas and Oklahoma. They especially loved going to Dogpatch and Eureka Springs. His grandchildren have many fond memories of going ‘bear hunting’ with Papaw and Mamaw Funny. Near the end of his life, Sonny spent two weeks in Texas with his youngest daughter and her family enjoying sitting on the porch watching birds and squirrels, counting the multitude of planes flying over, and questioning why the neighbors mow their yards and then wash (water) them. He cherished the extra time he got to spend with his three youngest grandkids while there. All of his nurses and his doctors said he told them daily how excited he was to get to go live in Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 33 years, Patricia Peek; two sisters, Johnnie Roberts and Jessie Cassell; and two granddaughters, Kirstie Peek and Megan Peek. Sonny is survived by one son, Antonio Peek of Hatfield; two daughters and son-in-law, Jennifer and Eric Elerson of Arlington, Texas, Stacy Peek of Hot Springs Village; one brother, Frank Peek of Mena; two sisters, Myra Heath of Mena and Aline Heath of DeQueen; ten grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Derek Baumgardner of Charleston, South Carolina, Madison Elerson of Arlington, Texas, Braeden Elerson of Arlington, Texas, Lillian Elerson of Arlington, Texas, Gabrielle Peek of Hot Springs, Derek Peek of Spring-
field, Missouri, Zachary Trotter of De Queen, Jacob Dinger of Texas, Caleb Dinger of Nevada, Dustin Dinger of Dierks; ten great-grandchildren; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. A small memorial service for both Sonny and Patricia will be held by the family at a later date. Online Guestbook: bowserffh. com
Pulse
“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.”
– Maya Angelou
Complete Up-to-Date Obituaries at
MYPULSENEWS.COM
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
News 7
October 13, 2021
Southwest Arkansas likely to draw big crowds for 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
By Patrick Massey
Gillham is likely to be a busy place in April 2024. That’s because Gillham, located just past the Polk County line in Sevier County, is going to be one of the best places in the country to view the 2024 total solar eclipse, which will occur on the afternoon of April 8, 2024. The predicted path of the solar eclipse shows Gillham exactly in the line of totality – meaning the sun will be entirely eclipsed by the moon, turning day into night. Nowhere in the region will the eclipse be more total and for a longer period of time than in Gillham. Eclipse2024.org, a website dedicated to the event, lists Gillham as the location in Arkansas with the greatest length of totality at four minutes, 18.7 seconds. The entire path of totality will only be around 120 miles wide. Outside of that swath the eclipse will be only partially visible.
Of course, other communities in the path will be able to view the solar eclipse as it occurs. Mena is set to see around four minutes and six seconds of the total eclipse. But, given the rarity of these events, every second counts. And with Gillham leading the state for the time of totality, visitors far and wide are likely to descend on the community in hopes of catching every moment of the eclipse. The last total solar eclipse to occur in the United States was in 2017. Prior to this event, no solar eclipse had been visible across the entirety of the United States since 1918. The 2017 eclipse was the first in the era of social media and modern communications and saw correspondingly huge interest. Millions of people traveled across the country to catch a glimpse. According to the Casper Star-Tribune, Wyoming’s population was doubled, maybe tripled by travelers from the U.S. and across the globe – all seeking to catch as much of the total solar eclipse as they could.
Besides the lengthy path it will take across the United States, the 2024 solar eclipse is likely to be a popular one for another reason: it’ll be the last one to touch North America until 2033. The only state that sees totality then will be Alaska, and the weather prospects for March in the Arctic will make this one a true challenge to view. After that, the eclipse will occur in 2044 and again in 2045. In other words, the 2024 solar eclipse won’t be one to miss. So, ok, maybe it’s a little early to be too excited about an event nearly three years from now. But those who’ve experienced them say it’s a moment not to miss – and one you can’t prepare too early for. Besides descending the afternoon to darkness, solar eclipses are known to cause a few funky things to happen. Solar power stations are likely to see a quick drop in energy output while certain flowers such as hibiscus can be seen withdrawing their leaves as if it was night. Animals, too, will act a little funny during
the unexpected drop in light levels, such as chickens performing activities they only do shortly before entering their coop for the night. Fortunately, everyone’s going to have plenty of time to prepare for the 2024 eclipse. Start scheduling those vacation days and lining up your favorite place to watch the sky. And until then, you can learn nearly everything you need to know about this cosmological event – from the proper eye protection to simulated views of the eclipse for each impacted city – at eclipse2024.org. For those wanting to find out more about the eclipse in person, a group of interested eclipse watchers will host a meeting in De Queen this Wednesday, Oct. 13. Brook Kaufman, CEO of Visit Casper Wyoming is scheduled to speak on her city’s experience being in the path of totality during the 2017 eclipse. The meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the De Queen High School Cafeteria.
SUPP ORTING
B R E A S T C A N C E R AWA R E N E S S
●L I V I N G
R O O M ●B E D R O O M ●K I TC H E N W E H AV E W H A T Y O U N E E D
●A N Y
ROOM
MULTIPLE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS
479-394-5844
8 News
October 13, 2021
The Ouachita Quilt Show A Tradition Continues
The 39th Ouachita Quilt Show has taken place most years over its nearly 45 years existence. This year’s show is November 5-6, 2021, in the Education Building at the Polk County Fairgrounds in Mena. The show is open Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. There is a $3.00 admission fee at the door. There is no cost to enter an item into the show. Get your quilted items ready to take to the fairgrounds on Tuesday, November 2, from noon to 5:00 p.m. (with a pick-up time set for Saturday, 5-6 p.m.). Raffle quilt drawing will be held at the close of Saturday’s show. For many years, the Ouachita Quilt Show (OQS) took place during The Lum & Abner Festival but changed to coordinate with the chamber-sponsored Ouachita Arts Celebration (OAC) in the fall. This year, both events move to the education and commercial buildings at the Fairgrounds. The Nimble Thimble Quilt Guild hosts the quilt show, but the show would not be possible without the sponsorship of the Polk County Extension Homemakers Council which is under the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. The quilt show features quilters from Polk County and surrounding areas with over 100 quilts on display every year. In recent years, a prize committee was developed. Prizes from local and national vendors are awarded and range this year from an EverSewn sewing machine for the “Best in Show” ribbon winner to gift certificates and quilting notions for
first-third place ribbons. With 32 different categories, every quilter from beginner to experienced has a place to showcase talent and artistry. We look forward to seeing what you’ve quilted since the 2019 quilt show. The complete category list is on the Ouachita Quilt Show Facebook page or our website menaquiltshow. weebly.com. For the purposes of this show, a quilt or quilted item must have three layers: the top, the backing, and a middle layer – traditionally known as batting. You don’t have to be the quilt maker to show a quilt. If you were gifted a quilt when you were a child, got married, etc., you can enter it. There is also a “not for judging” category for antique and vintage quilts. This year, two vendor booths are scheduled. New this year is Material Girls, a booth featuring a quilter’s stash. Upon retirement from quilting, a local quilter donated her entire fabric stash to the hand quilting Quilt ‘n Chat group. The fabric was sorted and made into precuts and measured yardage. Don’t miss an opportunity to shop this fabulous and exceptional priced fabric, kits, books, and notions collection. Funds from sales in the Material Girls booth will primarily support food insecurity and the local Backpack Program. The Country Store is our Extension Homemakers Council’s regular booth of handmade items and home baked goods donated by guild and EHC club members. A baby table will include items especially for babies and toddlers. Country Store sales fund
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
buy tickets: one ticket is $1, six for $5, or 20 for $10. Raffle tickets will be on sale at the quilt show November 5-6; you can contact local quilt guild or EHC members for raffle tickets in advance of the show; or visit Polk County’s Extension office where you can see the quilt on display at 211 DeQueen Street in Mena. This year’s quilt made by guild members is a River City 9-Patch and featured in fabrics that represent the fall colors of the Ouachita National Forest. Thank you for helping us continue the giving tradition in 2021. The 2021 raffle quilt, created by Nimble Photos of ribbon winning quilts and quilt show advertisers Thimble Quilt Guild members. will be featured on the Ouachita EHC projects. Quilt Show Facebook page. Follow us The quilt show is known for its raffle on Facebook to see photos, quilt show quilt made by Nimble Thimble Quilt advertisers throughout the next year, Guild members. Raffle ticket sales benefit the Single Parent Scholarship Fund and details on future quilt shows. For more information on entering a for University of Arkansas Rich Mountain students. Over $20,000 have been quilt or attending the show, please condonated in the last 10 years for this tact Joyce Sanden via text or message at scholarship. Show your support and 479.234.3414.
(479) 394-6500 1-800-394-6521 1118 Hwy 71 S · Mena, AR
Breast Cancer is Never Welcome Here
Let’s Find A Cure!
www.c21perry.com
Each office is individually owned & operated.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
DKG selects new inductee
News 9
Pesticide application training
The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture will offer two courses for the Private Pesticide Applicator License. The training will take place at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Extension Education Building, 211 DeQueen St., Mena, Oct. 28, 2021. The course fee is $20 per person. Call 394-6018 for more information.
Dr. Krystal Thrailkill (left), president of Alpha Kappa of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International recently inducted Tammy Young, counselor at Acorn High School, into the chapter. DKG is a professional honor society for women educators with more than 83,000 members. Established in 17 member countries around the world, the Society defines its mission as promoting professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education. To find out more about DKG, please visit https://www.dkg.org.
10
October 13, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Faith 11
October 13, 2021
by Richie Lawry The warm Indian summer sun lit up the countryside as we headed out in my cousin’s new Jeep for an outdoor adventure. We made plans to eat lunch at Baja Rios and then continue to the Cossatot River State Park. I had hiked the Harris Creek Trail at the State Park several times and wanted to do the hike again. The trail is a 3 1/2 -mile loop that follows along Baker Creek and Harris Creek and has a breathtaking overlook of the Cossatot River. The four of us happily chatted, as we hadn’t seen much of each other for quite a while. While we were driving down Highway 71 into Potter, the SUV in front of us started behaving erratically, moving across the centerline into the oncoming lane and then suddenly correcting back into its lane. Just as we got to the bridge coming into Potter, there was a tremendous bang as the SUV crashed into the guardrail, then spun around and slammed into the guardrail on the other side. As soon as the Jeep stopped, my wife jumped out of the car and rushed to the scene. The SUV was severely damaged, but a woman got out and was able to walk over to the guardrail and lean against it. I reached for my phone to call 911, but the call did not go through. I kept trying, and on the third try, the call went through. I explained what had happened, and the 911 operator assured me that someone would be right there. While I was making the 911 call, my cousin was clearing debris from the accident off of the road. The entire suspension had been ripped out from under the SUV and blocked the road. My wife talked calmly and quietly to the woman. She said she was OK but appeared to be injured. My wife tried to get her to sit down, as she seemed to be going into shock. As vehicles made their way around the accident scene,
Harris Creek Trail my wife shouted at several cars, asking if they had a blanket or towels, but no one stopped. In just a few minutes, law enforcement and the ambulance were on the scene. My wife talked to the sheriff ’s deputy and the ambulance driver and told them everything she knew. As my wife got back into the car and we headed south, everyone was visibly shaken, and the mood in the Jeep had gone from cheerful to somber. A short while later, we saw a car driving too fast down a side road, and we weren’t sure that they were going to stop at the highway. After you have witnessed an accident, you are on high alert and notice everything about your surroundings. Before the accident, we had been carefree, visiting and having a great time. But the accident changed the mood in the Jeep The conversation turned to stories of close calls that each one had experienced. When you have a close call or you witness an accident, it sticks in your mind. It’s not something that you soon forget. By the time we pulled into the Baja Rios parking lot, our nerves had settled a bit, and our hearts weren’t racing quite as fast, but the accident we had witnessed was still on our minds. We had a wonderful meal at Baja Rios. Their chile relleno covered in white queso with a side of hot green
salsa is one of my all-time favorite meals. The daughter of an old friend of mine sat at the table next to us and recognized me. We reminisced about my friend, and I remembered how we could have deep discussions about things we didn’t necessarily agree on and remained good friends. After a great meal, we needed to work off some calories, so we headed down to the Cossatot River State Park to hike the Harris Creek trail. After finding a shady spot to park the Jeep, we started our hike. The trail begins in an old shale pit. There are areas covered in moss, and the color contrast between the light green mosses and black shale is stunning. As the trail begins to climb, you get views of Baker Creek. Once you get to the top of the hill, after an elevation gain of over 300 feet, the trail takes you through an open stand of hardwoods with glimpses of Baker Creek to your left. Further down the trail, Baker Creek runs into Harris Creek, and there are some fantastic overlooks. The views along the trail are breathtaking. Some sections are steep and rugged, but the trail is well maintained and wellmarked. The day was hot, but there was usually a breeze to help cool us. By the time we made it back to the Jeep, we were tired and sweaty. After our hike, we drove the Jeep on many back roads between Highway
278 and Highway 246 before making our way home. It had been a wonderful afternoon filled with good food, family, and experiencing the natural beauty of our area. But we couldn’t help but wonder about the woman in the accident. How badly had she been injured? We had experienced a lovely day, but the accident had ruined her day. God wants us to have beautiful experiences like we had hiking the Harris Creek Trail. Jesus tells us, “I came to give life with joy and abundance.” John 10:10 (VOICE) But we all know that life has its ups and downs, and every day isn’t filled with joy. Some days are difficult. God wants us to help each other through those difficult times. We are to “show kindness and compassion toward each other.” Zechariah 7:9 (NABRE) Compassion is simply a kind, friendly presence in the face of a difficult time. Compassion starts with the understanding that everyone you meet is fighting their own battles. That frame of mind makes it easier to treat others with love, compassion, empathy, and understanding. We are all facing challenges. Gentle Reader, we can’t heal the world today, but we can begin by showing compassion. So many of the problems in our world stem from a lack of compassion. If we would show kindness to others even when we disagree with them, it could help change our world, one compassionate act at a time. In 2 Corinthians 1:3 (NIV), Paul gives God this title, “the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” I love that description of God; “the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” And Paul goes on to say, in verse 4, that God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Do you have compassion for others? Who do you need to comfort today?
Joke of the Week:
My bluetooth speaker wasn’t connecting to my phone. I got mad and threw it into the pool. It’s syncing now.
Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
12 Sports
October 13, 2021
Paris Eagles fly back, beat Ladycats
The Mena Jr. & Sr. Ladycats played at Malvern on Monday. The 7th grade won their match and the Jr. High won 2-0 by a score of 25-23 and 25-19. Sr. High JV won 2-0 and the senior high won 3-0. Mena Volleyball is scheduled to host Arkadelphia on Tuesday, Oct. 12
Pulse
ESports streams to Mena High School
By Trey Youngdahl
The Mena Ladycats beat Paris 3-0 back on Sept. 20 at the Union Bank Center but could not get past them on Saturday. Paris gave Mena their second loss of the season in the championship game at the Paris Tournament. The Mena JV won the silver bracket at the Paris Tournament on Saturday. The Ladycats beat the Mayflower varsity 2 to 0 in the finals.
THE POLK COUNTY
This year, Mena High School’s newly formed ESports team will start its first season. ESports describes the world of competitive, organized video gaming. This is a great opportunity for students to socialize and engage in competitive gaming against other school teams in the district and on a state level. Seventy-one percent of parents report competitive gaming having net positive effects for children (montanayouthsoccer. com). The competitive program is offered to 9-12th grade students, with a non-competitive ESports club for 6-8th grade. The AAA sanctioned team boasts 40 students over 10 teams. The games: Rocket League, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Splatoon Ultimate, League of Legends, Madden 21, FIFA 21, and Smite. The teams have four coaches: Nathan Stone, Chuck Cox, Lorrie Henry, and Cindy Brevik. Competitors have opportunities for scholarships from private companies, as well as military. According to arkansassoccer.org, “ESports can boost children’s strategic thinking, teamwork, communication, leadership, performance skills and confidence building.”
ESports athletes are seen as assets due to their hand-eye coordination, problem solving abilities, improved attention & visual acuity, and VR/technical experience for jobs like drone operation for private companies and military, VR training, and video game development. Today, more than 170 colleges and universities participate in ESports, offering more than 16 million dollars in college scholarships (npr.org). University of Arkansas Rich Mountain is looking into forming an ESports team in the near future, with the possibility of scholarship opportunities. “It’s still in the planning stage,” UARM chief information officer Brian Carnahan said. The booming ESports industry is still a very young program. Many schools are having to learn how to establish and navigate the teams with little training and experience. Coach Stone said, “We’ve learned that pretty much every other school is in the same boat that we are.” Stone noted MHS is looking into streaming the gaming events in the future for parents and fans-alike to spectate. “We elected not to do that until we have more experience.”
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
School 13
AHS AP Biology Students Achieve Top Scores
Acorn schools racked up some wins on September 14, 2021 at the Magazine Invitational.
Mena Bearcats performers sweep 1st place!
Congratulations to the Mena Bearcat Marching Band on receiving 1st Division Band, 1st Division Drum Major, 1st Division Percussion, and 1st Division Color Guard at the Bulldog Invitational Marching Contest held Saturday in Waldron. They were scheduled to compete next at the Region VIII Marching Assessment on Tuesday at Fort Smith Northside.
Congratulations are in order for Acorn High School students Joshua Tilley & Kiersten Larucci . The students achieved top scores on the AP (Advanced Placement) Biology Exam. AP Biology teacher for the Ouachita River School District, Michelle McGee, said, “[I am] Proud of your achievement, students, and for our outstanding educa- Photo (l to r): Michelle McGee, AP Biology tors!” Teacher, Joshua Tilley & Kiersten Larucci
14 Politics
October 13, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives
Counties. This week, the House passed We have posted the map prolegislation outlining new boundposed in the legislation at www. aries for Arkansas’ four congresarkansashouse.org. sional districts. The bills have now been sent to HB1982 and SB743 are identithe Governor’s desk. cal bills that divide the state into This week, the House also the following districts: passed HB1977 and SB739. The first congressional district These bills state that an employincludes the counties of Arkaner that requires vaccination or sas, Baxter, Boone, Chicot, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, John Maddox immunization for COVID-19 for its employees shall provide Cross, Desha, Fulton, Greene, specific exemption processes Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Lee, Lincoln, Lonoke, Marion, outlined in the legislation. The bills state the exemption process Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett, Prairie, Randolph, St. Francis, Searcy, shall include options that allow the emSharp, Stone, and Woodruff. It also in- ployee to produce either: A negative antigen detection test recludes and a portion of Pulaski County. The second congressional district will sult or molecular diagnostic test result include the counties of Cleburne, Conway, no more than one time per week showFaulkner, Perry, Saline, Van Buren, White, ing that the employee is not positive for COVID-19; or and a large portion of Pulaski County. Proof of immunity for the virus that The third congressional district will include the counties of Benton, Carroll, causes COVID-19 or its variants, includCrawford, Madison, Washington, and a ing without limitation the presence of antibodies, T cell response, or proof of a posportion of Sebastian County. The fourth congressional district will itive COVID-19 or its variants test, on a include Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Clark, basis of two times per year from a licensed Cleveland, Columbia, Dallas, Drew, healthcare provider. The House will be in recess unless the Franklin, Garland, Grant, Hempstead, Hot Spring, Howard, Jefferson, John- Speaker called us back to the Capitol to son, Lafayette, Little River, Logan, Miller, address any errors or consider any vetoes. Montgomery, Nevada, Newton, Ouachi- If we are not called back to the Capitol, ta, Pike, Polk, Pope, Scott, Sevier, Union, the 2021 Regular Session will officially adYell and portion of Pulaski and Sebastian journ on October 15.
Contact Your Legislators! John Maddox
john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060
Larry Teague
THE POLK COUNTY
Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903 Nashville, AR 71852 870-845-5303
John Boozman
1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553
Bruce Westerman 101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887
From the
State Senate
Pulse
tion centers of Washington In an extension of this and Benton Counties and year’s regular session the legnorthern Sebastian County. islature drew new boundaries The counties along the for the four Congressional Louisiana border and the districts in Arkansas, and apTexas border will be in the proved exemptions for workFourth District, except for ers at companies that require Chicot County in the southstaff to be vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus. Larry Teague eastern corner of the state. It will be in the First District, The legislature was prepared along with other Delta counties where to convene again, in the event that row crop agriculture is prevalent. the governor vetoes any of the bills The Fourth District will extend and lawmakers want to override the from Texarkana northward to inveto. The new map of Congressional clude southern Sebastian County. districts will divide two counties. The Fourth District will extend north Sebastian County will be divided be- across the Arkansas River to take in Franklin, Johnson, Pope and Newton tween the Third District of northwest Arkansas and the Fourth District of Counties. It also will include Jefferson County, Grant County, Hot Spring southern Arkansas. Pulaski County will be divided County and Garland County. Ashley and Drew Counties will be three ways. The western half of the in the Fourth District; Lincoln Councounty will be in the Second District. ty will be in the First District. Traditionally, an undivided Pulaski Under legislation passed by the County has been the centerpiece of the Second District of central Arkan- Senate and House, companies that require their workers to be vaccinatsas. The new map will put southeast- ed against the Covid-19 virus would ern Pulaski County in the First Con- have to provide exemptions for emgressional District, which covers ployees who are tested weekly. Also, they would be exempt if they much of eastern Arkansas. The First District includes the counties along could show that they have antibodies, which the body produces after a perthe Mississippi River and a band of counties along the northern border son contracts the virus. Tests for antibodies could not exceed twice a year. with Missouri. The cost of testing would be paid by A sliver of southern Pulaski County, in Little Rock, will be in the any state or federal funding available. If no government funding is available, Fourth District, which is a geographically large district that covers south- the cost would be paid by the employee. west Arkansas. Employees who comply with the The Second District will include northwest Pulaski County, as well as testing requirements shall not be terSaline, Perry, Faulkner, Conway, Van minated, and if they are terminated in Buren, Cleburne and White Coun- violation of the law, they may be eligible for unemployment benefits. ties. The exemption process will expire Boone, Marion, Baxter, Stone and July 31, 2023, unless the legislature exSearcy Counties will in the First Distends it. There is no emergency clause trict, which covers northeast Arkanon the legislation, so it takes effect 90 sas. Carroll, Crawford and Madison days after the official adjournment of Counties will be in the Third Dis- the extended session. trict, along with the major popula-
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 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 October 4, 2021 Deputies were dispatched to a business on Hwy 71 North near Hillcrest for a report of Theft of Property. Deputies responded to a call to Polk 29 near Hatfield, leading to the arrest of Jennifer Slaikeu, 37 of Judsonia on a charge of Disorderly Conduct. Cord Olson, 35 of Hatfield was arrested on charges of Disorderly Conduct and Communicating a False Alarm. Glen Busch, 71 of Mena was arrested on charges of Harassment and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor in the First Degree. October 5, 2021 Deputies responded to a report of a Hit and Run Accident on Hwy 375 E near Mena. Deputies responded to a Harassment complaint at a cemetery near Hatfield. Deputies responded to a report of a Break-In on Polk 602 near Shady. Deputies responded to a walk-in complaint of a property dispute. October 6, 2021 Deputies responded to a walk-in complaint of a Domestic Altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. Bobby Huber, 29 of Mena was arrested by an officer with the Probation/ Parole Office on a Felony Warrant for Failure to Register. October 7, 2021 Deputies responded to a request for Welfare Check at a residence on Polk 36 near Hatfield led to the arrest of Terrie Jo Williams, 34 of Hatfield on two misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrants.
Also arrested was Patrick Billings, 71 of Cove on a misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrant. October 8, 2021 Patricia Jackson, 53 of Mena was arrested on charges of Delivery of Methamphetamine or Cocaine, Trafficking a Controlled Substance and Driving Left of Center. Richard Erickson, 45 of Hatfield was arrested on charges of Delivery of Methamphetamine or Cocaine, Trafficking a Controlled Substance and Driving Left of Center. Whitney Reynolds, 31 of Mena was arrested on a Felony Warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance. October 9, 2021 Joseph Stubbs, 45 of Mena was arrested on a Misdemeanor Warrant for Theft of Property. James Keaster, 38 was arrested on two Misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrants.
October 4 A theft report was taken from a person at Northside Laundromat. A report of theft and criminal mischief was taken at the Salvation Army. Howard Blume, 26, was served with a warrant at the police department. October 5 A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Hickory Avenue. Kimberly Jones, 22, was served with a warrant at the county jail. Chelsea Roba, 26, was served with a warrant at the police department. Amy Watts, 42, was charged with Theft of Property after a complaint from a person at Bunch’s Laundromat. Ginger Acquaah, 40, was served with a warrant at the police department. October 6 A report of criminal trespass was taken at Budget Inn. A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. October 7 A report of financial identity fraud was taken at a residence on Ouachita Circle. A report of theft was taken from a person at Sun Country Inn.
October 10, 2021 Lehnard Barnett, 32 of Mena was arrested by an officer with the Arkansas State Police on a charge of DWI.
October 8 Kyle Robinson, 26, and Terri Dehart, 25, were both served with warrants at a residence on Evans Circle.
Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 0 vehicle accidents this week.
October 9 No reports.
Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 25 Incarcerated Inmates, with 6 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORTS October 3 Benjamin Farley, 22, was charged with Public Intoxication and served with a warrant after a suspicious person complaint at Janssen Park.
METHcontinued from page 1 The driver, Richard C. Erickson age 45 of Hatfield, and passenger, Patricia L. Jackson age 53 of Mena, were both arrested at the scene and transported to the Polk County Detention Center. Erickson is currently charged with -Possession of Methamphetamines with purpose. -Trafficking a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamines) Jackson is currently charged with -Delivery of Methamphetamines -Trafficking a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamines)
Police Reports 15 Muzzleloader season kicks off this Saturday By Patrick Massey The deer woods are about to get busier with the start of muzzleloader season this weekend. Muzzleloader season kicks off this S a t u r d a y, Oct. 16 across the state. Although archery season went into effect several weeks back, Ark ans as’ deer woods start to see a lot more action once muzzleloaders are allowed. Muzzleloaders are permitted for hunting deer Oct. 16-24 and again – for hunters in Zone 11 - from Dec. 11-13. Polk County is split between two zones regulated by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission: Zone 11 which encompasses northern and eastern Polk County, and Zone 13 which covers all of southern Polk County and northern Sevier. Despite being in two zones, Polk County’s bag limits are the same: a total of five deer, of which no more than two can be bucks. In Zone 11, however, dogs are only allowed Nov. 13-Dec. 5. Those dates are a little more lenient in Zone 13, which allows dogs Nov. 13Dec. 19. While Zone 13 has fewer muzzleloader days than Zone 11, it does have an extended modern gun season. Modern guns are allowed across the state beginning Nov. 13. In Zone 11, that season ends Dec. 5 and doesn’t restart until the three-day modern gun season in late December. Modern gun hunters in Zone 13 will also get that three-day late December hunt, but also have between Nov. 13 and Dec. 19. A special youth modern gun hunt is scheduled in both zones Nov. 6-7 and again Jan. 1-2 early next year. Visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s website for a full listing of those guidelines at AGFC.com
16 News
Registration remains open for the 10th annual Tour De Queen bike ride hosted by the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce. The event is scheduled for Nov. 6 and will begin at the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce office in downtown De Queen. The yearly bicycle event draws in dozens of riders both locally and from across the state for a number of challenging but scenic rides through Sevier County. With six routes of different lengths, including a new 38-mile gravel and paved combination, riders of all levels will enjoy a scenic trek through the countryside or by De Queen Lake. Routes include a 15-mile, 25mile, 36-mile, 38-mile, 47-mile
Pulse Cossatot River Half Marathon
October 13, 2021
Annual bike ride in De Queen by Patrick Massey
THE POLK COUNTY
ride and a new 100-mile option. This year there will be a new finish-line celebration, sponsored by Healthcare Express and post-meal for participants. Chamber officials invite riders to bring the whole family and enjoy the vendor and craft booths and the youngest riders can bring their tricycles and ride in the Pop-cycle Trike Ride around the courthouse square. This event will start at 11:00 a.m. For more information, contact the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce at dqchamber@gmail. com or call (870) 584-3225. Register online with BikeReg for this year’s Tour De Queen Bike Ride at www.bikereg.com. Register by October 15 for a free event t-shirt.
Set for Oct. 23
WICKES - Cossatot River State Park and Natural Area has announced it will host its annual Half Marathon Trail Run this fall. The yearly trail run has been scheduled for Oct. 23 from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the park, located 12 miles east of Wickes on Highway 278. Registration and check-in will kick off at 6 a.m. at the Visitor Center. The shuttle to the start line at Brushy Creek is at 7 a.m. with the 13.1 mile half-marathon to begin at eight. The park will host a meal at 11 a.m. and present awards at 11:45. All area residents are invited to challenge their abilities in the mountainous terrain of the Cossatot River State Park for this 13.1 mile single track trail run. Take your time and enjoy the scenic trail or push yourself to the limits and compete for the top honors. Either way this will be an enjoyable event,
park organizers say. T-shirts will be provided to registered runners. For more information contact the park at (870) 385-2201.
Freedom Pharmacy 479-437-3089
710 4th Street • Mena, AR
Mon-Fri 8am-6pm • Sat 9am-12:30pm • Sun Closed
Supporting
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
History 17
Reflections from Faith and History: Christopher Columbus Revisited
By Jeff Olson
Like many of you, as a child I learned about Christopher Columbus as the man who sailed the ocean blue in 1492. Unfortunately, much of what has been written about him by contemporary critics has been inaccurate, historically and contextually obscured, and even disparaging to his actual identity. To move beyond these distortions and the simplistic myths we’ve learned about Columbus and the Americas of his time, balanced literature such as George Grant’s “The Last Crusader: The Untold Story of Christopher Columbus” and Robert Royal’s “1492 And All That” are good reads. This week, as we observe the 529th anniversary of his famous voyage, I think it is in order for us to discover more about Columbus the man and some facts which perhaps remain unknown to some Americans, especially younger ones. According to early history books, Columbus’s real name was Cristobol Colon. So, who was he? The answers will include such descriptions as an adventurer, a sailor, the discoverer of the New World and he was in fact all of these. However, his writings and the records kept by his contemporaries indicate that Columbus was a pious man and a diligent student of the Bible, a man of unshakable faith who believed he was an instrument in God’s hands. Columbus was convinced that, “He [God] bestowed the arts of seamanship upon me in abundance and has given me what was necessary from [as-
tronomy], geometry, and arithmetic; and has given me adequate inventiveness in my soul.”
tual depth about him. Even his signature is encased in a triangular pattern, with the names of God written above the signature,
What we remember is that Columbus’s voyage was funded by Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Castile (a part of what became the kingdom of Spain in 1516). However, what may not be as commonly known are Columbus’s missionary outreach motive and the Queen’s acceptance and endorsement of it. He wrote a book entitled “Book of Prophecies” in which he copied down Scripture related to bringing the Gospel to unknown coastlands. This book has been translated into English from the original Latin and Spanish versions by the late scholar Dr. August Kling. Columbus’s writings reveal a spiri-
Christopher Ferens (Christ Bearer). From his “Book of Prophecies,” Columbus wrote, “At a very early age I began to sail upon the ocean. For more than forty years, I have sailed everywhere that people go. I prayed to the most merciful Lord about my heart’s great desire, and He gave me the spirit and the intelligence for the task: seafaring, astronomy, geometry, arithmetic, skill in drafting spherical maps and placing correctly the cities, rivers, mountains and ports. It was the Lord who put it into my mind (I could feel His hand upon me) the fact that it would be possible to sail from here to the Indies. All who
heard of my project rejected it with laughter, ridiculing me. There is no question that the inspiration was from the Holy Spirit.... No one should fear to undertake any task in the name of our Savior, if it is just and if the intention is purely for His holy service.” Christopher Columbus was an astonishing sailor, perhaps one of the greatest in history. He was a magnificent maritime leader of men, but as a governor and in other capacities he came up short, even to the point of failure. As a man in the midst of unprecedented circumstances, it can be quite tempting and easy to judge him in a narrow perspective and negative light and through the lens of contemporary concepts of 16th century cultural norms and absolute justice. Columbus and many other notables in our history have fallen prey to those who would sever history from its context and setting. Christopher Columbus was indeed a flawed man (as are all men), but his life was consequential in more ways positive than otherwise. His proven skills and leadership on the high seas, his earnest desire to share Christ with unknown peoples, and his determined and focused quest for a westward route to Asia resulted in epic changes in the world. His quest linked Europe to the Americas, opening the exchange of knowledge, ideas and religion among various cultures, and creating new opportunities in a new world for colonization, individual freedom, self-government, liberty under law, and the preservation of unalienable human rights.
18 News
October 13, 2021
Oct. 15 is deadline to file, pay federal taxes The October 15 filing deadline is approaching quickly for taxpayers who requested an extension to file their 2020 tax return. Taxpayers should remember they can file whenever they’re ready and don’t have to wait until Oct 15. There are tools available at IRS. gov to help people with their taxes: Taxpayers can file their tax return electronically for free through IRS Free File. https:// www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-doyour-federal-taxes-for-free Other electronic filing options include using a free tax return preparation site, commercial software or an authorized e-file provider.
If an extension filer owes taxes, they should pay as much as possible by the Oct. 15 deadline to reduce interest and penalties. IRS Direct Pay (https://www.irs. gov/payments/direct-pay) allows individuals to securely pay from their checking or savings accounts. Visit IRS.gov for additional payment options. People who have a valid extension and are in – or affected by – a federally-declared disaster may be allowed more time to file. Oct. 15 is also the deadline for all Arkansans to pay their real and personal property taxes and avoid a 10 percent late penalty. Contact your local county tax collector’s office for additional information.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
Contest 19
20 Outdoors
October 13, 2021
SOME THINGS ARE WEAKENED WHEN THEY’RE MISSING PIECES, BUT SURVIVORS JUST GET STRONGER.
(479) 394-4140
515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 SUPPORTING
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Taking a spin withWheel-A-Mena
By Trey Youngdahl
the Top Saturday, October 9. 70 cyclists registered for the tours. Two of the cyclists The Mena/Polk County Rotary held had bike issues and were unable to finish. Cyclists began at Janssen Park in Mena, their 9th Annual Wheel A’ Mena Tour to sharing the first 15 miles of the route ascending the Talimena Scenic Drive before choosing to continue along one of three routes. The distance totals are 30, 50 and 70 miles with grades up to 12% in some locations. The finishers with the fastest times were Kyle Landrum on the 70-mile route, Ryan Richbourg on the 50mile route, and Michael Reston, on the 30-mile route. “You’re kidding!” Reston said in response to hearing he was the first to arrive back. The annual event is the Rotary’s signature fundraiser and also their largest of the year. All the money raised stays within the county for programs such as their Dictionary Drive where all county 3rd graders are given their own dictionary. They support the Single Parent Scholarship, donate books to the public library and branches throughout the county, and send high school students to a leadership camp each year. Michael Reston finished in First Place Rotary officials spoke about the for the 30-mile course of the Wheel growing popularity of the event. A’Mena Tour to the Top. “We have one rider who flies to (Photo by Trey Youngdahl) his son’s house in Oklahoma and drives over to compete. He’s from New Hampshire. Also had people from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana,” they said. “This year is our 9th event, and we plan Cyclists in Janssen Park await the start of the 2021 Wheel A’Me- to ramp things up next year na tour that takes them to the Wonder House atop Rich Mounfor our 10th tain. From there, riders split up to conclude a 30, 50, or 70 mile distance. (Photo by Trey Youngdahl) anniversary.”
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
Outdoors 21
Take joy in the outdoors in Mena By Zoie Clift Arkansas Tourism
Mena is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest and shines as an outdoor destination in Arkansas. “We have something for everyone from canoeing and kayaking, fishing and hunting, hiking and bike riding to enjoying a peaceful meditation or walk in one of our parks,” said Mena Mayor Seth Smith. Mena was founded in 1896 as a railroad town and the Mena Depot Center, which is inside a restored Kansas City Southern Depot, greets visitors with history exhibits and railroad memorabilia. Nearby in Janssen Park, you’ll find an 1851 log cabin still on its original site. “Janssen Park is a beautiful tranquil park with playgrounds and pavilions; ideal for picnicking, children’s outings and church gatherings,” said Smith. “Hiking and mountain bike trails in the Ouachita National Forest and adjacent to Queen Wilhelmina State Park offer challenging terrain as well as breathtaking scenery.” The city has a range of outdoor options available throughout the area. “The Wolf Pen Gap ATV trails near Mena are perfect for the more adventurous outdoorsman and the Talimena Scenic Drive, linking Mena, Arkansas, to Talihina, Oklahoma, is designated as a National Scenic Byway,” said Smith. With many panoramic vistas that overlook the surrounding Ouachita Mountains, the Talimena National Scenic Byway is the very definition of a scenic drive. From Mena, the route climbs Rich Mountain, Arkansas’s second highest peak, and passes by Queen Wilhelmina State Park on its way to Talihina, Oklahoma. A large chunk of the 54-mile route, 18 miles of which are in Arkansas, travels through the scenic Ouachita National Forest. ATV trails can be found in the Ouachita National Forest and of note, ATVs are allowed only on designated
trails and certain open forest roads. The Wolf Pen Gap trails were the first trail system built specifically for four wheelers in the Ouachita National Forest. The routes were created by the U.S. Forest Service in the 1980s from
old logging roads. The area is home to many beautiful trails you can hike, including trails at Queen Wilhelmina State Park and the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. The Ouachita National Recreation Trail is a showcase trail in the state. It is a long one and many backpackers put it on their to-do list for thru-hikes due to its mighty length: 223 miles through the Ouachita Mountains of both Arkansas and Oklahoma, though most of the route is in Arkansas. It goes from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma all the way to Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Little Rock, Arkansas. Speaking of state parks, this long trail also crosses Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Mena too. Sections of the trail are also open to mountain bikes. This part of the route, which is a whopping 108 miles and listed as an Epic Trail by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, IMBA, is the longest mountain biking trail in the state. Mena is well known for the surrounding trails for mountain biking like the local Earthquake Ridge Trail, which has around 6 miles of single-
track, and the nearby Womble Trail, which is also an IMBA Epic. The Earthquake Ridge Trail runs along a dry lakebed that once served as the water source for Mena. A master trail plan was recently completed for the 160-acre lake site which proposes constructing multi-use trails there. Fishing on Lake Wilhelmina, a 300acre Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lake that is around five miles west of the city, can also be found in town. Nearby Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area and the upper Ouachita River, which begins at the base of Rich Mountain, are also destinations for kayakers and paddlers. Further outdoor adventures can be had at attractions like The Blue-Zip Line & Farm, which is located on an Arkansas Century Farm on the Irons Fork River. You can dig for crystals at the Board Camp Crystal Mine, located around 10 miles east of Mena in the town of Board Camp.
Downtown Mena lies in an ideal location at the bottom of the famous Talimena Scenic Drive. It is home to an Arts District that includes outlets like the Ouachita Little Theater, a mainstay in town since the 1920s and the Mena Art Gallery. Main Street has a variety of restaurants, shops, antique stores and more including the Skyline Cafe, which opened in 1922, and The Ouachitas, which has craft coffee and more. Throughout the year a variety of activities can be found in town. “In the spring and summer, we have swimming, boating and fishing, skateboarding, baseball and soccer, the Lum and Abner Festival, and the Rod Run Car Show,” said Smith. “And in the fall and winter we have spectacular fall colors, horseback riding, camping, and events like the Ouachita Arts Celebration, Wheel A’Mena Tour to the Top cycling tour and the Christmas Lighting Festival and Fireworks.”
22 Community
October 13, 2021
Around Town The Cossatot Senior Center will continue Drive-Thru and Home Deliveries as normal. Congregate Dining will remain suspended thru October 31st. 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. 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 479234-8366 or 479-216-3786. Polk County Social Seniors will meet on October 13 at 12 noon at the Charboiler Restaurant in Waldron, Arkansas. If needing a ride or you would like to carpool, meet at the Walmart parking lot near the gas station at 10:45 to leave at 11:00. Bring a friend. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8pm Fridays at the First United Methodist
THE POLK COUNTY
Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/ Book Study for information call 479-2430297. 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. Reynolds Gardner Community Menʼs Breakfast every Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Mena, 8:00 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend. Itʼs easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!
CANCER continued from page 1
fullest while they undergo the medical treatments that lead them to recovery! Unlike many foundations, Clarice’s Room of Hope can keep its administrative costs to a fraction of 1% of its total contributions, due to the generous professionals who support its vital cause at no cost, and the countless volunteer hours provided by caring champions of the foundation. Therefore, donations are used for their intended purpose; to help individuals in need. They offer services to patients such as assistance with gas money for appointments, counseling, and wigs. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early and in the localized stage, the fiveyear relative survival rate is 99%. About one in every eight women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. That adds up to about 13% of women. “It is so important to schedule regular mammograms!” Sickles said. Carol spends a fair portion of her time counseling patients and, upon request, praying for them. She continues to do this despite two further cancer diagnoses
privileged to live somewhere so beautiful and welcoming. I am looking forward to this season of my life at home, watching the college, the community and my family grow and change.” In her new role, Miller will primarily oversee the financial operations of the college. Her spare time will be spent doing what she’s always had a passion for, family and farming. “As a family we spend our time working together on the farm, sharing a meal or
playing fetch in the yard; and it is those things that I am so grateful to be able to experience again. I have a golden retriever named Ellie, who is over the moon to be back home with her friends and within closer proximity to deeper mudholes to play in.” UARM will host the Chamber coffee Friday, October 15 at 10 am to give the community an opportunity to meet/ welcome Miller back home and into her new administrative role with the college. The event will be held in the Ouachita Center.
since her initial diagnosis in 2010. “I often get calls in the middle of the night from ladies who just need to be told that everything is going to be okay,” she said. “I’m blessed to get to do it.” She often encourages patients by telling her story. Because of the effects of chemo on her bones, she had to have back surgery, along with all of the other things that come along with having breast cancer. Additionally, her third diagnosis showed the cancer had spread to her ribs and right lung. You won’t see Carol crying about this. Her strength and resilience guide her through the maze of health conditions, doctor’s appointments and her volunteer work where she gets to help and inspire other people who struggle with the same conditions. “Just because you have breast cancer doesn’t mean it’s the end,” she said. “I lived through it. So can you.” To become involved or possibly receive assistance from Clarice’s room of hope, contact organizer Teena Brown at (479) 385-5071.
MENA REAL ESTATE
www.MenaRealEstate.com
MILLER cont’d from page 2
Pulse
479-394-7301
1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
TRANSCENDENCE energy + body work
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
23
Solar Eclipse 2024 preparations part of A&P Commission meeting
by Ethan Nahté The Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission convened for their monthly meeting at Mena City Hall October 5, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. Several items were on the agenda following the September financial reports, the first being a discussion of A&P business permits. It appears there are business owners unaware they must meet certain requirements to operate within the city, especially those businesses relating to the bed & breakfast or inn variety, located in residential areas. They also discussed the issue of those businesses that are delinquent paying the A&P tax, as well as legal and proper methods of delinquency notification or enforcing businesses to get up to date. The total solar eclipse of 2017 that was visible in North America cut diagonally across the country from the northwest corner of the Pacific NW states to the Carolinas and Georgia. Missouri was possibly third most-popular hotspot for many people to travel for a better view and photo ops at watching parties and festivals, hoping to observe a piece of history that may only result in a total eclipse for two-
three minutes, weather permitting. In 2017, an estimated seven million people were expected to travel to locales within the path of totality. Some small towns saw a tourism boom. Perryville, Mo. Sits between St. Louis and Cape Girardeau. The city has a population slightly larger than Mena with 8,500 or so. They eventually hosted more than 10,000 tourists, but less than the 20,000 they were told to expect. Some members of the A&P commission will be traveling to Little Rock to learn more about the 2024 total solar eclipse because Mena, Ark. is fully in the path of totality, meaning that April 8, 2024, and the days surrounding it, will probably make this area extremely more popular than it already is. Members will be learning some scientific data and how to prepare for an influx of tourists. They’ll bring that information back and present it to the commission so they can plan accordingly. Phillip Lance, the Tapley Park director, provided his report. He stated that approximately 200 youth registered for the fall soccer league, just shy of the number the league had this past spring. The children are playing with the new goals. Lance said the park is still awaiting
the new scoreboard and parking bumpers. The items are already running nearly a month late, possibly because of the delay in so many other shipments worldwide. He was not certain if the items will be delivered or installed by Nov. 6, the end of the soccer season. Also delayed is the gravel for the parking lot. Due to a typical rise in cost for several construction and material items (e.g. lumber), the commission planned for a contingency and approved an increase from just over $1,600 to a new amount of $1,750 to pay for the materials once available. The renewal of concessions was also approved, ending the park director’s report. Other items approved were amending Pasha Watson’s title of administrative assistant to administrator (does not include a change in pay); to purchased correctly sized banners for marketing, approval of various marketing materials for upcoming guidebooks; choosing Lana Gail and Gail Force as the musical entertainment for the 2021 Christmas Festival; closure of the Tapley Park Development Fund account, containing $107 or less, and transferring the full amount to the Tapley Park General Fund.
The last agenda item related to the partnership termination between the Mena-Polk County Chamber of Commerce and the Mena Advertising and Promotion Commission [see Contract to terminate in the Pulse Sept. 22, 2021, edition). The Commission had approved moving Marketing duties to Watson’s A&P position and providing the required 60 day notice to terminate the contract with the Chamber. The final contract termination approval came at the October Commission meeting. The contract provided for either party to terminate with a 60 day notice. It would have expired on December 31, unless the Chamber gave notice of intent to renew. It continues to be in effect until November 16. The Chamber elected not to negotiate a new agreement for the remaining Festival & Events alone. The Festival/ Events committee will meet Oct. 13th to address the three events A&P presents each year. The Chamber and A&P will continue to collaborate for the Christmas Festival. The Chamber organizes the parade, the A&P Commission provides entertainment and fireworks. The meeting will be held at Mena City Hall, Oct. 13, 4 p.m.
Supply shortages set jailhouse expansion project back by Trey Youngdahl Supply chain shortages have further set back the construction of the new Mena/Polk County jailhouse expansion project. These shortages aren’t only limited to Arkansas though. Scarcity of building materials like steel and lumber, as well as a plethora of items, plague the country as we continue to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Everything from computer chips to medical equipment seems to be lacking for consumers- along with vendors.
Bids were opened on various trade packages for the jailhouse project. “The biggest problem is the structural steel package,” county Judge Brandon Ellison said in reference to an estimated 360-day wait time on a structural steel package. “We only received one bid, it was higher than anticipated.” Also pushing the project back is a short supply of available contractors, which also causes bids to be higher than normal. Furthermore, even if the county acquires the needed materials, the project could be further delayed by a lack of man-power.
“We are experiencing supply chain shortages and delays on other things in the county.” Ellison said. “Obviously we will not start construction until we have the steel as we don’t want to have an incomplete and halted project.” The project was started during Sheriff Godfrey’s term 5 years ago, when they were given an ultimatum. Because of the age of the building, which was built in 1978, and the capacity, officials gave orders to either get the current jailhouse up to code or build a new one. Instead of building a new jail for an estimated
12 million dollars, they opted to expand on the current jailhouse for an estimated 3.4 million dollars. Funding for the project was originally to be sourced from taxpayers, but it was strongly opposed, and was voted against by citizens. Ellison now fears we could wait up to another year to see the project come to fruition. Despite this, he still expressed his excitement about the project. “We’re really looking forward to it.” At the end of the expansion, the jailhouse will hold up to 60 inmates
24 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
Safe Prescribed Burning and Smoke Management Submitted article With harvest underway, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture reminds our partners in agriculture and conservation of the importance of safe prescribed burning techniques as a valuable tool in crop management plans. Row crop farmers use prescribed fire in the fall as part of crop management plans to remove stubble following the harvest of rice, soybeans, corn, and cotton. Prescribed burning is an efficient and economical control method for preparing fields for the next growing season and eliminating pests and
diseases. Burning crop residue also allows for no-till or reduced-till planting during the next growing season. Smoke management planning prior
to the application of prescribed fires helps to reduce smoke impact on roadways, nearby towns, and sensi-
tive areas like schools, nursing homes, churches, and other facilities. “We want to remind all farmers who are using prescribed burns to make a safe smoke management plan, so we can continue to be good neighbors to all Arkansans,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture, Wes Ward. Farmers can report a prescribed fire at https://www.cognitoforms.com/ArkansasAgriculture1/ArkansasDepartmentOfAgriculturePrescribedBurnNotificationForm . There is a Safe Burning Checklist which farmers complete before applying prescribed fire: · Take extra precautions for smoke sensitive areas (highways, residents, communities, etc.) · Report prescribed burns to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Dispatch Center (1-800-830-8015) · Check to make sure relative humidity is above 20%
SUMMER ENERGY CONSERVATION TIPS TO HELP AVOID HIGH ELECTRIC USAGE : • TRY TURNING YOUR HOUSEHOLD THERMOSTAT UP A COUPLE OF DEGREES. • AVOID USING LARGE APPLIANCES DURING PEAK HOURS OF THE DAY. • KEEP THE SHADES CLOSED WHEN YOU CAN. • TURN OFF ANY UNNECESSARY LIGHTING. • ABOVE ALL, CHECK AND REPLACE ANY DIRTY AIR FILTERS. AND, AS ALWAYS, CONTACT US AT RICH MOUNTAIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE IF WE CAN HELP. REMEMBER, WE ARE HERE FOR YOU.
(479) 394-4140
515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953
479-234-6207 AMANDA AND DAVID DIXON OWNERS
♦ WOOD ♦ ACRYLIC ♦ GLASS ♦ LEATHER ♦ GRANITE ♦ PHOTO ENGRAVING ♦ AND MORE
· Check to make sure wind speed is less than 15 mph · Be sure to follow appropriate Smoke Category Day guidelines Reporting the burn to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Dispatch Center provides a full understanding to the farmer of weather conditions, information about other burns in the area, and proximity of nearby smoke sensitive areas like schools, nursing homes, and highways. “It is crucial for farmers to practice the responsible stewardship of our resources and avoid future regulations and red tape for our producers. Prescribed fire is a valuable tool and calling the hotline before burning takes only seconds. Taking these proactive measures today will help us ensure a quality air shed for our families and communities for generations to come,” said David Gairhan, Arkansas Rice Federation Chairman.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Emory Zakin Completes Firefighter Course
Mena Firefighter Emory Zakin recently graduated from the Arkansas Fire Training Academy’s Comprehensive, seven-week course designed to introduce the knowledge and skill necessary to function at a fire department at the Firefighter 2 Level. The course is physically demanding with numerous classroom presentations and outside, “hands-on” skill sessions. Topics covered are general knowledge and skill requirements; fire department communications; fireground operations; rescue operations; hazardous materials, NIMS (National Incident Management System), and prevention, preparedness, and maintenance. The Mena Fire Department and the
News 25
October 13, 2021
Morning Coffee for your
Ears!
citizens of Mena proudly congratulate Emory for his accomplishment.
196 Hwy. 980, Mena, AR 71953
Supporting
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
26 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
OLT and Just 4 Fun Players present 39 Steps Looking for a fall evening with live entertainment that is full of fun and suspense? Mark your calendar for the performances of 39 Steps, a hilarious “whodunnit” comedy with just the right mix of murder mystery and humor. The first of the shows will be performed on Oct. 22 and 23 at Mena Mountain Resort (MMR). Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. This is a dinner theater with a twist; you bring your own “brown bag” dinner! There is limited seating, so please make reservations by calling MMR at 479-3943110. You can also get ticket information at this number for these two shows. There will be a reprise of 39 Steps on Halloween weekend at Ouachita Little Theatre (OLT), 610 Mena Street. Three shows will take place on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 29-30, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday Oct. 31 at 2:30 p.m. Your OLT season ticket will get you into either location. If you would like to purchase advanced tickets, you may visit the OLT office on Thursdays
$
$
and Fridays between 2-6 p.m. or on Saturday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Just 4 Fun cast member Tim Hesse describes the play as a parody of Alfred Hitchcock’s early thriller, “The 39 Steps.” He states, “It is set in London in 1935 and centers around a large cast of characters all played by four actors. Our hero runs deeper and deeper into pre-WWII espionage, Nazis, and even murders. What’s fun about this play is that the actors are actually encouraged to adlib and do whatever it takes to get a laugh. It reminds me of when I was a kid and came home from a movie and acted it out for my parents.” OLT is concerned for the health and safety of our performers as well as our patrons. We will not require our OLT audiences to be masked, but we respectfully ask you to do so to assist in protecting each other from Covid19. Since the interactive dinner theatre at MMR contains a stage that protrudes in the audience area, the tables will be limited to 4 people and placed to allow for social distancing.
$
CHIQUITAʼS $5 FOOD SERVICE FOR $3
BAYWASH CAR WASH $10 CAR WASH FOR $5
WENDYʼS LARGE BREAKFAST BACONATOR COMBO FOR $5
THE SHOP $45 UNLIMITED $ TANNING FOR $25
TRANSCENDENCE ENERGY & $ BODYWORK $60 MASSAGE FOR $45 $30 FACIAL FOR $20
AND A VARIETY OF BRANSON TICKETS
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Humor 27
October 13, 2021
Ho g s p o r e Ne w s :
Whata You Hear From Tony?
By Clet Litter from the Ozarks
Mumford Pickens was explaining Tony’s Barbershop work habits. “After the hair cut is done, he always removes the barber’s cape off the customer, and holds it off to the side to shake the snipped hairs three times onto the floor. Then he dusts the client with his whisk broom, collects the money, and yells, ‘Next Victim.’ Those are called idiosyncrasies, and we all have them.” Morton Trubletoof popped in with, “I don’t do any of those things.” Mumford ignored him. He says, “We each have different idiosyncrasies. They’re customized for us.” Morton chimed in, “I know what you’re saying. I have a couple of those idiot sequences myself.” He sits in the barbershop unless he has a guide or hunting job. He gets free haircuts and sweeps the floor. The customers enjoy his stories. Tony saved the day, “Morton, how about sweeping a might.” Changes have been coming to the Big Boy in the town rectangle. Ladies from the church had an idea for a name switch to the Big Boy and Girl Restaurant. The owner, who suddenly didn’t want to be mentioned, agreed to the new title. He had another new sign painted and everybody was joyful. Then ladies from another congregation objected cause it looked like it was a place for fat girls. Most women in that flock were not close to being skinny, and it only took a few … to fill a pew. The proprietor didn’t need folks reckoning it was for fatties. It weren’t good for business. He had his sign repainted to the Big Boy and Everybody Else Place. The women are real pleased, and that ain’t never easy to bring in. Now more men are attending service these days too, cause the owner offers church member discounts. The only thing he still won’t offer is his name. The menfolk are worried about Doc Spicer. It begun right after he give a speech at the high school on diet strategy. He said, “Men must be more careful with portion control and cut way down on sweets.” The Barbershop Think Tank got involved and come up with a solution. Old man Grimely said, “The Think Tank doesn’t consider that Doc has turned on us. The Think Tank just feels that maybe, to get through this short bout of insanity, that he oughta seek some psychological help. The Think Tank is offering to form a group therapy class once a week for Doc at The Happy Porker Barbeque Restaurant. Remember their slogan: All You Can Eat Till You’re Full, With No Bull.” Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you wanna.
Welcome Emily Turner APRN to the team! Accepting Patients May 3rd
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
Call 394.7301 to make your appointment! Seeing All Patients
28 School
THE POLK COUNTY
October 13, 2021
Cossatot River
Pulse
Homecoming Royalty 2021
Caylynn Burke
Reagan Bills
BreAnna Hutson
Emily Ugarte
Ziggie Parks
Sherlyn Brito
Lyla Baker
Alyssa Wilson
Cossatot River Queen
Laura Flores
Rendi Warren
Jasmine Wilkinson
PulseSchool THE POLK COUNTY
29
October 13, 2021
Rynlee Richardson
Dani Atchley
Liliana Gasca
Cossatot River Princess
Kaylee Ward
Leslie Esquivel
Victoria Squires (Not Pictured)
CONGRATULATIONS
COSSATOT RIVER HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING COURT
GO EAGLES!
30 News
October 13, 2021
Parents must school themselves on dangers of social media apps
As Arkansans fill their calendars with school activities this fall, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is sending an important warning for parents to make sure to take the time to monitor their child’s internet usage and social media accounts. The internet and social media sites are a valuable resource for learning and connecting with friends, but social networking sites are also prime targets for criminals. “It is crucial that parents are aware of these apps and websites. While they can be invaluable resources for learning and connecting, they also can connect your child to a criminal if not watched closely,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “It is important we all take the necessary steps to protect our most precious Arkansans from those who want to do them harm.” There are 16 smartphone apps the Attorney General’s Office urges parents to know about that may make children vulnerable to dangers online: Bumble – Bumble is a popular dating app that requires women to make the first contact. It is common for minors to use this app and falsify their age.
Calculator% – Calculator% is one of several “vault” style apps that appears to be a harmless app, but is used to hide photos, videos, files and even browser history. Chatous – Chatous is a messaging app that allows users to chat and share images. This app makes it easy for predators to engage in age-inappropriate conversations with potential victims. Discord – Discord is a voice and text chat tool that allows gamers to communicate in real time. Users can chat, add friends one-on-one or in larger groups. This app discusses content geared towards adults but allows users as young as 13. Grindr – Grindr is a dating app for LGBTQ adults, not children. The app gives users options to chat, share photos and meet with people based on a smartphone’s GPS location. House Party – House Party is a group video chat app that allows users to communicate via live video chats and texts.
See APPS continued on page 34
Supporting
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
A CURE WORTH FIGHTING FOR
Mena Ford, Inc. 1103 Hwy 71 North Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-2214 www.menaford.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 31
October 13, 2021
10.13.21
10.13.21
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 10.06.21
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! My name is Sally and I am a tri-colored darling! I am 4 years old and weigh in about 42 pounds. I am black and white with brown ears and freckles on my face. Yep! I am pretty cool looking! I am child-friendly and enjoy other dogs too. I do have a sassy personality. I am particular about my food and should be fed separately from other dogs. I will need to be kept on a monthly heartworm preventative to ensure my best health. I am super friendly. I enjoy treats and meeting new people. Come out to HSO and say Hi, today! All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. 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
32 Classifieds
October 13, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES LEGAL Land Management, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T1027 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T1027 DR Bartering Service – Don’t have the money but need work done. Call us and see if we can trade it out for something you have. No job too big or small. Call 870-387-5042 T1117
- EMPLOYMENT -
Help Wanted: Dozer Operator Pond building experience a plus. Multiple equipment opportunities. Pay based upon experience. Call (479) 234-1357 T1013
HELP WANTED - FULL CHARGE BOOKKEEPER (Mena, Arkansas); Requirements include Associate Degree or higher, five years’ experience, proficient in Quick Books bookkeeping, proficient in Excel and Word, supervisory experience, must have the ability to work independently, while following a detailed schedule. Duties include journal entires, accounts payable, accounts receivable, GL account reconciling, bank statement reconciling, developing and adhering to annual budget and salary schedule, and other accounting related functions. Email letter of introduction with Resume attached, listing full work history and references, to pcdc400@sbcglobal.net. NO Phone calls or walk-ins accepted. References will be checked. We will conduct full background checks, including State/FBI, as well as drug testing. Applications will be accepted through 10-29-2021 T1027
The Ouachita River School District will be accepting sealed bids for the next three weeks on a 24x64 2-classroom portable building on the Acorn Campus. Sealed bids should be turned into the administration office by 12:00 p.m., October 22, 2021. If you wish to look at the facility, Monday through Friday beforehand, please call Jackye Simon at 479243-5677 to schedule an appointment. No appointments will be made on weekends to view the facility. T1013
YARD SALES
Yard Sale– 355 Polk Road 32, Cove, October 15 &16, 7:30 - ?, Kid’s clothes-newborn sizes & up, household items, saddles, black cast iron #20 pot with a hanger, & many more items. T1013
Reminder: Fall Clean-up begins next Monday The City of Mena’s 18th annual fall clean-up is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 25, 2021. This is an open invitation for residents of Mena to place their yard waste items, such as tree limbs, shrubs, trees, grass and other items, on the curb to be picked up for free. Smaller items, such as small limbs, gumballs and leaves should be stored in trash bags before being placed on the curb for pickup. The Mena Street Department will begin pickup on the northwest side of Mena and work their way across town, following the same routes as Southern Disposal. Items intended for fall clean-up should be placed on the curb prior to Monday, October 25 to insure they will be collected.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
News 33
34 News
October 13, 2021
APPS continued from page 30
There is no screening, and the video is live. Users can also communicate with people they do not know. Me – Live.Me allows users to livestream videos using geo-location to share the videos so other users can find the broadcaster’s exact location. Users can earn “coins” to “pay” minors for photos. Monkey – Monkey is an app that allows users as young as 12 to chat with people all over the world during a brief introductory call, then users are given the
chance to add each other on Snapchat. Snapchat – Snapchat is a photo & video sharing app that promises users their photo or video will disappear even though it does not. Snapchat stories allow users to view content for up to 24 hours and share their location TikTok – TikTok is a popular app among kids that is used to create and share short videos with limited privacy controls. Users are vulnerable to explicit content and cyberbullying. Tinder – Tinder is a dating app that allows users to “swipe right” to like some-
394-1938
TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHAUST • SHOCKS & STRUTS
Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm
1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash
one and “swipe left” to pass. Users can falsify their age, share photos, messages, and meet. Tumblr – Tumblr is a blogging app and website that allows users as young as 13 to create an account. There are very few privacy settings and pornography is easy to find. Most posts are public and cannot be made private. WhatsApp – WhatsApp is a popular messaging app allowing users to text, send photos, make calls and leave voicemails worldwide. Whisper – Whisper is a social network that allows users to share secrets anonymously and it reveals the users’ location so strangers can meet. YouTube – YouTube is a video sharing app that may not be age appropriate for kids. Inappropriate content can be found using innocent search terms, but with parental controls this can be avoided. Yubo – Yubo is a social media app that allows users as young as 13 to create a profile, share their location, view other users’ profiles in their area and view livestreams. Substance abuse, profanity, racial slurs and scantily clad people are common. Attorney General Rutledge released the following tips for parents to stay con-
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse nected to their child’s online activity: * Talk to children about sexual victimization and the potential of online danger. * Keep the computer or laptop in a common room of the house, not in a child’s bedroom. * Utilize parental controls available from internet service providers or use blocking software. * Always maintain access to a child’s online account and monitor email. * Teach children the responsible use of online resources. * Find out the computer safeguards being utilized at school, the library and at friends’ homes. * Never automatically assume that what a child is told online is the truth. Arkansans can report child exploitation by calling: the National CyberTipline at (800) 843-5678, or visit CyberTipline.com. In the event of an emergency, dial 911, or call local law enforcement. For more information on smartphone apps and internet safety, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at OAG@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
October 13, 2021
News 35
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL LET’S MAKE SOME SPICY JERKY
By Steven E Stillwell
One of the easiest survival foods a Bushcrafter can make is jerky, and the best thing is, its nutritional attributes will help to sustain you in the wilderness. For centuries, wild game such as deer, elk, antelope, buffalo, squirrels, rabbits, wild turkey and waterfowl were “JERKED” by the Native Americans, because these lean animals are high in protein, and they require minimal efforts to preserve. Greasy, fatty game should be avoided, because the meat runs the risk of turning rancid if you don’t trim enough of the excess. They can be used if you’re a meticulous butcher and you thoroughly smoke the leaner cuts. On a personal note, I love homemade, venison jerky, so I’ll share my secret recipe! THIS IS HOW IT’S DONE. We’re going to assume that your quarry is butchered, so let’s start there! After trimming all of the fat and silver-skin, take a slab of meat, and make uniform cuts, approximately a finger’s length, and half the width. Your goal is to create thin strips that will dehydrate when placed over a low heat source, approximately 120º Fahrenheit. When you have a suitable amount of meat, toss these cuts into a pot, baking dish, or anything that will hold marinating sauces. I like to submerge my cuts for at least 24 hours underneath the seasonings so they can absorb as much as possible. Place your bowl in the refrig-
erator and stir everything at least twice during this time-frame. THESE ARE THE SPECIAL INGREDIENTS. What I like about cooking is the freedom that a chef has to experiment with different spices. The first time I made jerky, I used a recipe I saw in a popular deer hunting magazine, but I’ve made a lot of changes since then, so what I’m sharing is technically my own invention. If you can’t handle the hot sauce, you can substitute this ingredient with any brand of barbeque sauce. Keep in mind that value brands work great because the primary objective is to save money by doing things yourself. 1. Sriracha chili, or Barbeque sauce, at least one third of a bottle. 2. Worcestershire sauce, at least one bottle 3. Soy sauce, at least half a bottle 4. Morton’s Season All, several table spoons 5. Three-five pounds of thinly sliced venison strips.
NOW IT’S TIME TO LAY EVERYTHING OUT. If you have one of those fancy, commercial, jerky dehydrators, this will make your task a lot easier; if not, lay your strips of meat closely together on a cookie sheet. Place them in your oven for approximately 1012 hours, or until crisp and dry. THE TRICK IS TO COOK SLOW AND LOW. Try not to exceed the 120º temperature setting.
When you’re doing this over an open fire pit in the woods, the process could
take up to 24 hours, depending on the weather. You’ll have to use flat rocks, or construct your own jerky tripod with multiple intersecting twigs that are uniformly tied at different levels, to lay your trimmed strips across. This isn’t as complicated as it sounds, but it takes a little practice. Once you build one of
these, you can use it multiple times until it wears out. In my humble opinion, homemade cuisine tastes the best, because you’re the one who’s in control. When everything is finished, place your jerky in Ziploc bags, but don’t seal them up until everything cools off. If you neglect to heed this simple warning, you’ll end up with condensation, and this will cause mold or spoilage. The early pioneers and mountain men use to store their jerky and pemmican in burlap bags, so the air could circulate around the contents. Are you an aspiring survivalist who enjoys the outdoors, and campfire cooking? We invite you to join our growing Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.
36
October 13, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse