Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
September 30, 2020
Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com
Zoning case resurfaces
INSIDE:
By Jeri Borst
Train Derailment
Page 19
A rezoning issue that began in 2015 may be appearing before a judge for a summary judgment. Mena City Attorney, Patrick McDaniel, informed the Mena City Council at a committee meeting earlier this month that he was notified of the property owners intent to file for a summary judgment. “So the case would be presented to the judge with the facts laid out and would request the judge make a decision,” McDaniel explained. “However, there is an option to come to an agreement between the parties before it appears before the judge. So, if the council would like to negotiate terms, there is an opportunity o negotiate for restrictions.”
See ZONING page 2
Fire Prevention Week
Basscats Place First
Pulse file photo
Residents filled the Mena City Council chamber in July 2018 to express their concerns over rezoning property owned by Gerald Golden, located in Rogers Addition, which is a covenant neighborhood, located off Hwy 71, next to Grace Bible Church.
Page 7
County applies for federal funding for local needs
Page 12
Federal money maybe on its way to Polk County, after the Quorum Court approved applications for CARES Act funding at the September meeting. “It has been a struggle to get CARES funding at a local level. After pressure from county associations and the municipal league, the state has allocated funding that can be applied for at a local level,” County Judge Brandon Ellison said. Three resolutions for funding applications were approved by the county and, if approved, the county will transfer CARES Act funding to local entities
By Jeri Borst
affected by the pandemic. The possible funding would benefit the Mena/Polk County and Cossatot Senior Centers, the Polk County Fair and Rodeo Association, and the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office. “There are very narrow categories of eligible things that we can apply for and these are the ones we felt were appropriate,” Ellison said. Though the Polk County Fair Grounds are owned by the Fair and Rodeo Association, not the county, Ellison said an application on their behalf meets the requirements for the application. “The fair association basically pro-
vides economic development for the county, so we would do a contract for services so they would promote products produced in Polk County,” Ellison explained. “Federal money passes through the county. This is not county funding. We don’t hand out county money for that. Our budget is used for roads and bridges and things like that.” Ellison said making an application for the senior citizens is also not the county government funding the non-profits that own and operate the centers. “These are non-profit operations that were affected by the pandemic. The fair
See CARES page 19
2 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
Zoning continued from page 1
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Golden Property
Grace Bible Church
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Property owned by Gerald Golden, located in Rogers Addition, which is a covenant neighborhood, is located off Hwy 71, next to Grace Bible Church. ness could be built on that property? Would the ‘restrictive covenant’ within the Rogers Addition keep a landowner from building something the homeowners didn’t want, such as a convenience store, etc. An R2 zoning status would limit some
of the construction possibilities. Under R2 zoning, permitted uses are: one-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, churches, parks, playgrounds, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, doctor and dental clinics, and day care centers.
Pulse promotes blessings from the heart By Jeri Borst
Loneliness and boredom were both symptoms felt by society as a result of the stay at home orders, followed by NEW CONSTRUCTION, ADDITIONS, AND REMODELING FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION. CONCRETE, DECORATIVE CONCRETE, PATIO COVERS, CARPORTS, SHADE STRUCTURES, RETAINING WALLS, RV COVERS.
US 71 / US 59 Lakewood Drive
LICENSED RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CONTRACTOR
Golden originally asked to rezone the property from an R1 to a C2 so that a VA Clinic could be built. C2 zoning has permitted uses that would allow retail establishments that provide goods or services for the motoring public (such as a convenience store), office buildings, automotive service, repair and storage (such as a salvage yard), motels, tourists courts, day care centers, and more. Upon hearing of the request, Rogers Addition property owners and residents drafted a petition and circulated it through the neighborhood last September to stop the process, citing noise and traffic brought in by any business would interrupt their normal routines and living environment. After the request for rezoning the property was halted by the Planning and Zoning Commission, Golden lost his potential buyer and enlisted the help of legal counsel. However, fears of what type of business a C2 zoning designation would allow was one of many concerns voiced by the packed audience of property owners, especially since the VA clinic is no longer in the picture. Concerns such as: Would there be a guarantee of what type of busi-
Oaklawn Drive
City officials have discussed the opportunity with residents in the Rogers Housing Addition, which includes the property in question, owned by Gerald Golden. Mena Mayor Seth Smith and council members expressed at the September City Council meeting that conversations are on going and residents are bringing ideas to the table. The summary judgment request ask the property be rezoned as R2. The council is working with residents to come up with restrictions, which may include privacy fence, entrance and exit must be on the highway and not the subdivision drive. In January 2016 the council confirmed a decision made by the Mena Planning and Zoning Commission and denied a C2 rezoning request. The Mena Planning and Zoning Commission had previously denied a petition in October 2015 to reclassify the zoning status of the property.
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social distancing directives, which were issued as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many have returned to work, started school or otherwise found a new way to live underneath the social distancing orders, those in assisted living continue to fight isolation. One community member felt it is imperative that community members share blessings from the heart during this time. “It’s just a sad time; they are stuck there, with limited interaction with family and loved ones. It just really made my heart ache,” Irene Bellete said.
“I thought geeze, why not do something that shows them we care, they are on our minds and in our hearts.” Her idea was to ask community members to donate large print coloring and activity books, along with Crayola crayons. Donated items can be brought to Pulse Multi-Media, 1168 HWY 71 S., during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donations will be collected until Friday, Oct. 7, and Bellete will then distribute the items to area assisted living facilities.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Radio - Print - Web 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
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Editor/News Director Jeri Borst Production Manager Tori Stockton Graphic Design John Russell Programmer/On-Air Personality Curt Teasdale Morning Personality Jim Pinson Senior Account Executive Jackye Pruitt Account Executive Brooke Rose Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Stacy Vann, Jason Sharp, Paeton Fryar The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
September 30, 2020
From the
State House of Representatives
To register, you must fill out a paper Voter Unfortunately each Election Day, Registration Application. You can find one many would-be first-time voters in Arat the following locations: the local county kansas do not have their votes counted clerk, The Arkansas Secretary of State Elecbecause they are not actually registered tions Division www.sos.arkansas.gov, Local to vote. The deadline to register to vote in revenue or DMV office, Public library, Disthe November election is October 5. The ability agency, Military recruitment office. postmark on a mail-in application will be If you are registering to vote by mail, considered the submission date. you must provide either your driver’s liMany believed they had registered months before, but failed to follow up John Maddox cense number or the last four digits of your Social Security number on your Arwhen they did not receive a voter ID card from their county clerk. The process of vot- kansas Voter Registration Application, or check the er registration is convenient, but it also places re- box in #9 on the application to indicate that you do sponsibility on the registrant to ensure the process not possess either a driver’s license or Social Security number. is completed. If you have moved from one county to another Submitting your voter application at a state agency, in a voter registration drive or through the U.S. within Arkansas, you must update this information Postal Service does NOT guarantee your registra- with the county clerk no later than 4 days prior to tion. You should follow up on the status of your Election Day via a Voter Registration Application. Feel free to call your county clerk and inquire registration just as you would on any other personal business matter. Before considering yourself a about the status of your application. You may also registered voter, you must receive an acknowledg- check your voter registration status online by visiting www.voterview.org. ment of your registration from the county clerk.
From the
State Senate
Arkansas cities and counties that have im between sessions. been hit hard by the economic impact of During discussion, legislators confirmed the coronavirus can apply for help, after from the officials who will administer the legislators approved the use of $150 milgrants that cities can be reimbursed for the lion for relief grants. cost of helping residents with utility bills. Cities and counties can apply online The state Department of Finance and Adfor expense reimbursements, with a total ministration will disburse the grants to citlimit for the 499 municipalities in Arkanies and counties. sas set at $75 million. The total limit for the Larry Teague Many utilities have not cut off service for state’s 75 counties will be the same amount. non-payment of bills, because of policies enacted to Cities and counties must provide documenta- help people who lost their jobs or businesses due to tion, to prove that the expenses are allowed to be the coronavirus. reimbursed with federal CARES Act funds. An official of DFA said that grants would reCARES is an acronym that stands for the Coro- imburse local governments for rental assistance, navirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. It mortgage assistance and food banks. was approved by Congress and signed by the presiA related effort is in the works to help the Arkandent in March to offset the financial impact caused sas tourism industry. The state Parks, Heritage and by the coronavirus pandemic. Arkansas is to re- Tourism Department is writing a list of allowable ceive about $1.25 billion in total from the act. reimbursements that will provide financial help for Legislators and state officials intend for the grant the hospitality and service industries. process to move quickly. The first deadline for apSenators on the Legislative Council said tourism plying is October 30, with another deadline on No- has been especially hard hit by the pandemic. They vember 16 for applications that may be incomplete. are working to see that some CARES Act relief is The Legislative Council approved the use of $150 disbursed to local convention and visitors bureaus, million in CARES Act funds for relief for cities and because those local agencies promote business in counties. The Council is the legislative body that local hotels, restaurants, gift shops and tourist desmonitors state government operations in the inter- tinations.
Editorial 3
Want to share your opinion? 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. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. 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.
TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS Email NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM
4 History
September 30, 2020
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Reflections from History and Faith A Nation of Laws or Men? By Jeff Olson
Next week is the first Monday in October, the day that the U.S. Supreme Court convenes a new term following its summer recess. The term opens with the traditional chant of the court crier: “Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! All persons having business before the Honorable, the Supreme Court of the United States, are admonished to draw near and give their attention, for the Court is now sitting. God save the United States and this Honorable Court.” Indeed! There is no doubt that one of the most important and far-reaching decisions which a president will ever make (and the Senate confirm) is the judge(s) which he or she will send to the Supreme Court, as well as those in lower courts. This can be readily observed in the past 70 plus years in which we have seen the Judiciary become the most influential branch of our government, especially where social issues are concerned. However, policy issues have also become more subject to Court jurisprudence and control. While most of those who drafted our Constitution did not agree with nor incorporate the principle of judicial review, established in Marbury v Madison (1803), it nevertheless rendered limited harm until the 1930s. Prior to the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the courts were still largely populated with orientalists, who properly rendered legal interpretation based on construction of the Constitution’s original intent. Since then, some of our leaders have exceeded the Constitutional limits upon the authority of their office. This then opened the door for the judiciary to follow the same path -- to read into the Constitution what was necessary to make it conform to the demands of the prevailing political will, regardless of prevailing cultural norms and moral sensibilities of the people. The perpetuation and acceleration of this “living constitution” resulted in a document subject to all manner of judicial inter-
pretation. As Thomas Jefferson wrote in 1819, “The Constitution is a mere thing of wax in the hands of the judiciary, which they may twist and shape into any form they please.” The result has been the dismantling of the federalism built into the Constitution through the shift of state autonomy and sovereignty to more and more federal control. James Madison, considered the “Father of the Constitution” said, “Do not separate text from historical background. If you do, you will have perverted and subverted the Constitution, which can only end in a distorted bastardized form of illegitimate government.” Chief Justice John Marshall stated, “The Constitution is not a panacea for every blot upon the public welfare, nor should this Court, ordained as a judicial body, be thought of as a general haven for reform movements.” And, Justice Felix Frankfurter said, “As a member of this court, I am not justified in writing my private notions of policy into the Constitution, no matter how deeply I may cherish them or how mischievous I may deem their disregard.” Now contrast this with one of our chief justices who said that the Constitution is what the judges say it is. And when asked to describe his judicial philosophy, justice Thurgood Marshall is said to have replied, “You do what you think is right, and let the law catch up with you.” This ideology was also seen in 1958 when the Court stated that the Constitution should comport with “evolving standards....that mark the progress of a maturing society.” What is actually in question is whether we are a nation under the rule of law or under the rule of men. The great theologian Thomas Aquinas related the secular concept of natural law to the biblical concept of divine law. Both refer to an objective standard of morality and justice against which human laws are measured. Without this understanding that law should be based on transcendent and
unchanging principles of truth and justice, law then becomes nothing more than a construct and tool of government for social engineering through creating and enforcing social policies. There are a tremendous number of cases in point which we could review showing how the Court has allowed ideology and pre-desired outcomes to replace principles and precedents, but it is enough here to state that if “We the People” have a desire to make a comeback to “the consent of the governed” then we had better be informed and active in this year’s elections and beyond. Once again we return to Thomas Jefferson, “Nothing in the Constitution has given them (the federal judges) a right to decide for the Executive, more than to the Executive to decide for them...But the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide what laws are constitutional, and what not, not only for themselves in their own sphere of action, but for the legislature and executive also in their spheres, would make the judiciary a despotic (tyrannical) branch.” And Alexander Hamilton, one of the three authors of the Federalist Papers, the most authoritative exposition of the Constitution as understood by those who prepared and accepted it, stated in Federalist #78: “[The Judicial Branch] may truly be said to have neither FORCE nor WILL but merely judgment.....the judiciary, from the nature of its functions, will always be the least dangerous to the political rights of the Constitution.....[T]he judiciary is, beyond comparison, the weakest of the three departments of power...... [and] the general liberty of the people can never be endangered from that quarter.” Hamilton could make this statement with confidence because the Founders specifically withheld all policy-making powers from the judicial branch. Unfortunately, the other two branches (and we the people) have surrendered those powers to it. Our Constitution was written and ratified “in order to secure the Bless-
ings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity” as set forth in the Declaration of Independence. Our forefathers established a republic designed and intended to protect those inalienable (God-given) rights and to reflect the consent of the governed; a nation of laws originating from the “laws of nature and nature’s God”, not men. In the words of Benjamin Franklin, “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters.” At the close of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, Franklin was asked what the delegates had given the country. He responded, “A republic..., if you can keep it.” The election year of 2020 will be a crucial opportunity for you and I to make decisions which will determine to a great extent: if we “can keep it” OR will surrender it.
479-394-7301
1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
MENA REAL ESTATE
Farrell & Sharon Cole The Cole Team
816 S. Mena St. Mena, AR 71953 Office: (479) 394-5000 www.FarrellCole.com www.MenaRealEstate.com
Obituaries 5
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
Milton Finley
On September 25 2020, Milton Finley, beloved husband, brother, and father, passed away at the age of 81. Milton was born on March 29, 1939 to Onie and Maudie Finley in Paradise, Texas. He leaves behind a brother, Ben (Ethel), a grieving widow, Amy, and his Little Princess, Emily. He was preceded in death by brothers John, Junior, and Thurman, sister Ethel, wife Barb, and his parents. From a young age, everyone who met Milton said that he would go far with his intelligence and perseverance, and hard working attitude. He easily accomplished his farm chores and school work while simultaneously earning a spot on every sports team the school had to offer. At age 19, Milt joined the army. Nobody was surprised when he excelled in his military career, eventually attaining the rank of Sergeant Major before his retirement in 1978. After leaving the military, Milt settled down in Florida, where he entered the private sector as a computer programmer. He eventually found true love in the form of Barbara Behny, and they wed in 1986. They enjoyed 28 wonderful years together, and anyone who spent time in their home could see the abiding love and affection between them. After losing Barb in 2014, Milton eventually remarried Amy Davis in 2016. He also adopted his Little PrinCaring for your family since 1928
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cess, Emily Nicole. The couple enjoyed many adventures together and loved each other deeply. Milt, aka Cowboy, lived life to the fullest for as long as he possibly could - he zip lined in his late 70’s on his honeymoon, rode horses til he could no longer get in the saddle, and kept his red boots shined at all times just in case the opportunity arose for a “scrumptious meal” at Longhorn. Milt loved his ponies, his farm, riding a tractor, dogs, cowboy boots, miniature Hereford cattle, and most of all, his little family. He will be grievously missed by all who were fortunate enough to have met him. In lieu of flowers, please consider helping a veteran in your community. Funeral services will be Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at the Calvary Baptist Church in Mena with Brother Ben Finley and Brother Andy Arnold officiating. Interment will follow in the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena. Visitation will be 2 hours before the service at the Calvary Baptist Church. Arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Pallbearers will be Gerald Finley, Randy Cook, David Martin III and Michael Aleshire. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
Mattie Vineyard Ridgeway Mattie Vineyard Ridgeway, age 93 of Board Camp, AR went to her heavenly home on Thursday, September 24, 2020. She was born October 30,1926 in Palestine, near Witcherville, Arkansas to the late Dewey and Viola Cross Vineyard. She was united in marriage to Brother Vernual Ridgeway for 75 years and 4 months. Mattie was a true servant of the Lord and of people. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, neighbor, and friend. She faithfully carried out the duties of a Pastor’s wife
in the churches her husband Vernual pastored in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. She was a member of the Board Camp Baptist Church. She was a published author of multiple poems and two books. She loved being outdoors and always tended to her gardens and flowers. She loved to take her family to the outdoors for picnics, fishing, or even picking huckleberries. Her hobbies included sewing, quilting, painting, and working on any craft project. She was preceded in death by her parents Dewey and Viola Vineyard, two sisters and husbands, Ruth and James Watson, June and Ken Brooks, two brothers in law, Carl Finney and Mac Morgan. She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn McIntosh of Board Camp, grandchildren Troy McIntosh of Board Camp, Kristy Frazier and husband Roger of Sulphur Springs, AR, great grandchildren, Melissa McIntosh of Sulphur Springs, AR, and Tara Harder and husband Shane of Mena, AR, great-great grandchildren Summer Martin, Nathan Harder and Jacob Harder, sisters Doris Morgan, Helen Finney, Zella Harrison and husband J.D. and Joy Boren and husband Frank. A host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Pallbearers will be nephews Jackie Morgan, Ronnie Morgan, Larry Morgan, John Henry Boren, Randy Harrison, and Jacky Lynch. Honorary pallbearers are nephews Reece Watson, Danny Hicks, David Harrison, George Boren, Andrew Boren, Michael Boren, and Napoleon Boren. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Timothy Scott Barfield Timothy Scott Barfield, born September 2, 1970 in Orlando, FL, went home to his Heavenly Father on September 23, 2020 in Mena, AR. The adored and beloved husband of Sheryl (Dickerson) and father of Wyatt and Katherine, he fought a long,
courageous battle against brain cancer. He was a highly skilled commercial flooring installer until an injury disabled him. In 2010, he became an expert stay at home dad to his precious twins. He was the proudest father, fully engaged and passionate about raising Godly children. A Florida boy, his youth was spent fishing in the Florida waterways with a pole in his hand. In 2011 he moved his young family to Mena, AR. In this uniquely loving and beautiful town, he planted Florida roots to flourish in the Arkansas soil. Diagnosed with brain cancer in early 2019, his family temporarily relocated to Orlando for treatment at UF Cancer Treatment Center. The Lord then opened doors to bring him back to his home in Mena that he loved so much. He spent 3 joyous months back in Mena before spending 6 weeks in hospital. The Lord blessed his family with Hospice angels long enough to bring him back to his family to laugh, love and pray together. With his adoring wife by his side, he peacefully journeyed home to heaven. He is celebrating a beautiful reunion in Heaven with his parents, Corbit and Lucille. Tim is survived by his wife Sheryl and twins Wyatt and Katherine. He is also survived by his loving siblings, Michael (Angela), Cindy Pettis, Kenneth (Carol), sisters in law Candy (Dickerson) Cannon (Tom), Ali McDonald, and Traci (Dickerson) Mayer. He is also survived by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and loyal friends. He is also survived by Gordy and Cindy Brevik, family members who were very special to him. A celebration of life is being planned; information will be available soon.
6 News
THE POLK COUNTY
September 30, 2020
100 years celebrated by DAV
Pulse
Photos by Jeri Borst
The Disabled American Veterans and Auxiliary distributed sack lunches and gift bags Saturday in Janssen Park to area veterans and their families as part of celebrating the 100th anniversary of the national DAV organization. The local groups thank the sponsors who made the lunches and gift bags possible. The organization is open to new memberships and has volunteer opportunities to serve veterans.
Polk County Housing Authority 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR
“Smoke Free” and well maintained. The cooking and heating in most apartments is natural gas which is paid by the housing authority. Water, sewer and garbage pick-up are also paid by the housing authority. You will be responsible for your own electric service. Rent amount is based on income. Lawn mowing service is provided to elderly/disabled residents and available for a fee to all other residents. Apartments have washer and dryer hook-up and are equipped with a range and refrigerator as well as central heat and air conditioning. PCHA also has an income based rental assistance program for housing anywhere in Polk County.
Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing TIRES BRAKES CUSTOM EXHUAST SHOCKS & STRUTS Hours: Mon.- Fri. 8 am - 5:30 pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
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394-1938
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
Community 7
Union Bank of Mena announces staff promotion Kevin Williams, President, Union Bank of Mena has announced that Kyle Cannon has been promoted to Vice President, Lending. Cannon, who has been with the Union Bank of Mena for eight years, was previously Assistant Vice President and also serves as Branch Manager of the bank’s Wickes location. According to Williams, “Kyle is valued member of our staff and we are excited to see his progression through his expertise and experience in the local loan market. One of our operating principles is ‘local
Kyle Cannon
people, local decisions’ and Kyle’s knowledge of his customers needs and being there for them is what hometown banking is all about.” Cannon serves on the Mena School Board and the Arkansas School Boards Association. He also serves on the Church Council at Christ Community Fellowship in Mena. Union Bank of Mena was established in 1934 in Mena, and has branches in Mena, Hatfield and Wickes. For more information contact Tim Rodgers, 479-394-2211.
Submitted by Mena Fire Department
As Fire Prevention Week™ approaches, the Mena Fire Department reminds residents: “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!™ The Mena Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years —to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials. “We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice-president of outreach and advocacy. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.” The Mena Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the theme “Serve Up Fire safety in The Kitchen!” “The most important step you should take before making a meal is to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” said Chief Steve Egger. “A cooking fire can grow Photo courtesy of City of Mena quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.” Assistant Fire Chief Charles Hankins, left, joins Mayor Seth Smith, and Fire Chief Steve Egger, The Mena Fire Department wants to share safety tips to keep you from having right, for the signing of a proclamation of Fire Prevention Week in Mena from Oct. 4-10. a cooking fire. Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove. If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking. You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have universalfire-ufec.com taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy. “Protecting Life & Property Since 1974” Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the 24 Hour Emergency Service burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool. Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried. Fax: 479-474-8901 To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in your town, please contact your local Fire Department. For more general information 479-651-4554 Cell: 479-6 about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit www.fpw.org. 1-888-556-5328
Proclamation Issued
Universal Fire Equipment Co. Inc.
479-474-9291
8 Community
THE POLK COUNTY
September 30, 2020
Pulse
Rehabilitation projects begin at airport Submitted by Fred Ogden Mena Intermountain Aiport’s Runway 17/35 is being rehabilitated, with pavement rehabilitation work began today in last week. The “Full Depth Reclamation process” (FDR) will be utilized on this project. The first step of the FDR process is to grind the old asphalt and base, mix in some cement and water with the ground-up material and lay it back onto the ground. That’s what the equipment in the picture is doing. Then, this mixture will be spread and compacted so that the surface is about the same elevation as the old base. Later, after the entire runway has undergone the FDR and some prep work on the surface of the new base is done, new asphalt will be laid. The FDR process is scheduled to take a little over a week. Then, some other processes to get the surface ready for the asphalt are performed. Finally, asphalt will be laid, new markings installed and some work on the runway shoulders will be done. The entire project is scheduled to take 60 days, or until late November. During this time, Runway 17/35 will be closed. To maintain access to the west side of the airport, the midfield connector will remain open and will be the last part to be paved. By then, other taxiway connectors will be open. Except for the midfield connector, the entire runway will undergo the FDR
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479-216-6567
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process. The connector will be repaved using another process. The south end of the runway will be the first section to be paved after the FDR is complete. Once that’s done, the ILS will be turned back on. Right now, the best estimate is that the ILS may be operational again sometime around late October to early November Taxiway B On another note, the new Taxiway B is open. Punch list items are being addressed and some drainage work around midfield in front of Crider’s paint shop is being performed. (This will entail closing a portion of Taxiway D tomorrow through Wednesday. More on that soon,) The relocation of the Runway 09 PAPI is probably not going to be completed until after the first of the year due to FAA travel restrictions related to COVID-19.
Photos courtesy of Fred Ogden
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
9
September 30, 2020
Ouachita Bigfoot Festival & Conference
Photos by Jeri Borst
The ďŹ rst Ouachita Bigfoot Festival and Conference was held last weekend at Blue Zipline and Farms. Several vendors, live music, live demonstrations and speakers entertained and informed attendees.
10 Community
THE POLK COUNTY
September 30, 2020
Pulse
Around Town Ouachita Little Theatre is holding auditions for “Return to Radio Land” this Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Ouachita Little Theatre. This is a readers theatre style performance to be performed October 22, 23, and 24. There are parts for all ages. The Rotary Club of Polk County will be presenting their new “Blessing Box” to the community on Thursday, October 1st at 12:45pm. A Ribbon Cutting for Transcendence Energy and Body Works will be held Friday, Oct. 2 at 10 a.m. at 408 Janssen Ave. Suite C. Call the Mena/Polk County Chamber for more information. The Ouachita Strings and Friends will be holding a bonus performance of their annual Concert in the Park, Saturday October 3rd at 4:00pm at Janssen Park. It is free and open to the public. Bring lawn chairs and refreshments and come prepared to enjoy a evening of musical favorites while supporting your local artist. Mena Downtown Partners has canceled Downtown Daylight Trick-or-Treat. Disabled American Veterans and Auxiliary will meet at 6 p.m. Oct. 1 at the American Legion building in Veterans’ Park for their monthly meeting. 4-H is selling Texas Roadhouse Rolls for a fundraiser. Contact the extension office, 479-394-6018, for more information.
WELCOME TO THE TEAM!
City Of Mena Fall Clean-Up Scheduled: The City of Mena’s 17th Annual Fall Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 26, Only yard waste items will be picked up (tree limbs, shrubs, leaves, grass, etc.). Due to state law, we can not pick up construction debris and lumber. Please place items at curb side PRIOR to Monday, Oct. 26 to insure they will be collected. it is required that smaller items, such as small limbs, gum balls, and leaves, be placed in garbage bags. This service is free for the residents of Mena. The Mena Street Department will begin collection in the Northwest part of the city and work their way across town following the same routes as Southern Disposal. This pick-up is scheduled for one week only and it is not necessary to call City Hall in order to receive this service. St. Agnes Church will host a food distribution on Thursday, October 1st. from 10:30 - Noon at 203 8th St. in Mena. Distribution will be at the church office. The Mena Art Gallery will be open extended hours during October to give people a chance to see the national Art of the Heartland Show. October hours are: Friday, Oct. 2, 3 pm - 7 pm; Saturday, Oct. 3, 3 pm - 7 pm; Sunday, Oct. 4, Noon - 3 pm; Friday, Oct. 9, 3 pm - 7 pm; Saturday, Oct. 10, 3 pm - 7 pm; Sunday, Oct. 11, Noon - 3 pm; Friday, Oct. 16, 3 pm - 7 pm; Saturday, Oct. 17, 3pm - 7 pm; Sunday, Oct. 18, Noon - 3 pm; Friday, Oct. 23, 3 pm - 7 pm; Saturday, Oct. 24, 3 pm - 7 pm; Sunday, Oct. 25, Noon - 3 pm. For more information contact Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street, at 479-394-3880. The Community Calendar has a new format! As a result of several events being canceled during the pandemic and disruption to routine, we found there were often errors in the Community Calendar. Because events are changing, often canceled or approved on a case by case basis, we have decided to revamp how to share what is going on in the community. The Around Town format will depend on readers to let Pulse Multi Media know what is happening Around Town. Rather than list events by date each week, we will have a Topic/Event Organizer in BOLD, with the details of when, where, why and more information following.
Brooke Rose Account Executive
Brooke brings a positive energy dedicated to customer service to our sales department. We look forward to seeing her accomplish her professional and personal goals as she maintains and builds relationships in the community.
The Elks Lodge is seeking donations for their annual Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets. For more information contact the Lodge at 479-3943740
It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know! To have the event listed in the paper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community! 1168 Hwy 71 South • Mena, Arkansas 479-243-9600 • MyPulseNews.com
Have an Around Town event or announcement? Email news@mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
11
September 30, 2020
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12 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
Prayers put forth
Basscats Photos by Jeri Borst
A gathering of Christians Saturday at Janssen Park asked God to heal the country and watch over the election and legislation. The local event was part of a nation-wide prayer effort.
Photo courtesy of Pete Rose
Above, Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger took sixth place in the senior division at the first bass tournament of the season, held by The Arkansas Young Guns Tournament Trail on Lake Hamilton the weekend of Sept. 19-20.
Presents
GOD & COUNTRY RALLY EVERYONE WELCOME
Sunday, October 25, 2020
In Honor of GOD and His will, By Voting in the November 3rd Election “God’s “God Country” Meal: 6 PM Program 6:45 PM Liberty: A Musical Presentation of Freedom Performed by The God & Country Choir Performance by ANEW Direction Gospel Band, Muskogee, OK
Special Guest Speakers
George H. Burns for State Senate 2020 District Five Warren Hamilton for State Senate 2020 District Seven
For questions & additional information:
call 918-755-4462
Paid for by Zafra Church
Below, the Mena Basscats were in action Sunday, Sept. 27 on Lake Hamilton for the AYFF Tournament Season opener. Basscats Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger start the year off with a bang by winning first place. This tournament was also a BFL qualifier. Austin and Jarrett will now have the opportunity to be co-anglers in the BFL with all memberships and tournament fees paid. The next tournament for the Basscats will be Oct. 11 on Lake Maumelle with Trader Bills High School Tournament Trail. The Basscats say thank you to all of their sponsors, including special thank yous to the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain, Union Bank, Outback Barn and Nidec.
THE POLK COUNTY
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September 30, 2020
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14 News
September 30, 2020
Higher Education
UA Rich Mountain grows amid declining enrollments Submitted by UARM While headlines across the state and nation report declining college enrollments, the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain is not declining but growing in all the right ways. Overall enrollment at the local college is up 4% compared to last fall, with the exception of the 60+ program which had to be temporarily suspended due to the on-going pandemic and concerns for student safety. The SSCH (student semester credit hours) is up 6%, which is an increasingly important performance criterion in higher education as it relates to state funding since the Arkansas Department of Higher Education implemented a new funding formula four years ago. Chancellor Phillip Wilson explained that much of the SSCH spike can be attributed to the 134 full-time student athletes. Building the athletics program and adding residential housing go ‘hand-inhand,’ Wilson explained. “It’s significantly extended our recruiting area as well as the fact that these student-athletes are full-time students who plan to transfer after completing their degree at Rich Mountain, which is also an important criterion in the state’s funding formula for colleges. We have also found that many of these students are our top performing academic students as well.” UA Rich Mountain is just one of two
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Mena School Board holds regular meeting Submitted by Mark Hobson / Mena Public Schools
colleges in the University of Arkansas System to see growth this semester. Wilson admitted that adding athletics, housing, and food service has been one of the greatest challenges of his career that could not have happened without the support of a great faculty and staff. “Seeing the numbers this fall semester only proves our concern that not taking such bold strategic initiatives left us vulnerable and could have resulted in us announcing dismal news such as budget freezes and lay-offs.” Of course, all of these decisions were made before the challenges of the COVID pandemic were added, “We certainly didn’t anticipate opening these facilities during a pandemic but the particular design we chose for cost savings has turned out to be the best possible design for residential living in these conditions,” said Wilson. Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs Chad Fielding said the college did experience a decline in part-time students and non-traditional students which he speculated could be related to employment or child care issues that prevented them from returning to classes. He explained that the demographics of the student body have changed significantly since the campus has transformed to providing residential living and an expanding athletics program. Wilson said it is a ‘win-win.’ “We’re in a new position to serve both of these demographics well now. In addition, we’re bringing new people and new families into our community as well. We’re adding new programs and new instructors
to accommodate the growth in full-time student enrollment.” Another strategic decision that has proven key to success in serving students during the challenges of the pandemic was led by Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs Krystal Thrailkill, who recognized students who register for an in-person class, prefer just that, an in-person experience and not an on-line experience. Thrailkill first extended the class periods which would allow the students to meet the classroom instruction requirements by the Thanksgiving holiday. Students will then transition to remote instruction/online for the remainder of the semester with all finals being on-line. This allows students to return home and not have to return to campus until the spring semester resumes mid-January. Second, Thrailkill built flex schedules for the larger classes, most commonly, general education classes. For example, one class of English Composition I would use two classrooms providing ample space for students to be physically distanced. The instructor will rotate days that she is physically present in one classroom with a video feed of their instruction running in the adjacent classroom. The Ouachita Center event venue has also been transformed into all instructional space that also allows for larger classroom space. “Being in a smaller community and being a smaller campus has truly been to our benefit in navigating the many challenges presented by this pandemic,” explained Wilson.
The Mena School Board met for their September meeting on Tuesday evening in the Mena High School Library. The board unanimously approved the 2020—2021 operating budget. Including federal programs, VI-B & special education. They also unanimously approved the 2020-2021 Standards of Accreditation, the Polk County Virtual Academy Charter School Statement of Assurance as well as Resolution Act 1120. Superintendent Benny Weston then made the board aware of a bond sale which will take place in the near future. These bonds will receive an improved rate which will save the district money over the life of the bond. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lee Smith then recommended to the board that they accept a bid from Velocity Fusion for a new phone system for the district & new intercom system on three campuses. The cost to the district will be just over $119,000. The board voted to accept that bid. Graduation 2021 was next on the agenda & after a brief discussion a date of Saturday, May 22nd was approved. Each school board member is required to take 6 hours of training this year & they were made aware of 9 hours of training being made available in the month of October that they can take advantage of. The board quickly approved the financial reports. Under personnel. The resignation of Jessica Smith, from her position as Family & Consumer Science teacher, was accepted & will become effective September 30th. They then approved the transfer of Lauren Frost to that position from her current position as a secretary at MHS effective October 1st. Finally the board approved the drafting of a letter, to the faculty & staff at Mena Public Schools, expressing their deepest gratitude for the good job they have done under difficult circumstances this school year.
News 15
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
News Briefs: Today is the Census deadline Census results have an impact on planning and funding for health clinics and highways, fire departments and disaster response, education programs such as Head Start and college tuition assistance, and so much more. Census results help determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year. The results determine how many seats in Congress each state gets. Itʼs mandated by the U.S. Constitution in Article 1, Section 2: The U.S. has counted its population every 10 years since 1790.
City Wide Clean-Up The City of Menaʼs 17th Annual Fall Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 26, Only yard waste items will be picked up (tree limbs, shrubs, leaves, grass, etc.). Due to state law, we can not pick up construction debris and lumber. Please place items at curb side PRIOR to Monday, Oct. 26 to insure they will be collected. It is required that smaller items, such as small limbs, gum balls, and leaves, be placed in garbage bags. This service is free for the residents of Mena. The Mena Street Department will begin collection in the Northwest part of the city and work their way across town following the same routes as Southern Disposal. This pick-up is scheduled for one week only and it is not necessary to call City Hall in order to receive this service.
Voter Registration Deadline is Oct. 5 The November General Election is just around the corner. Now is the time to be sure you are registered to vote and that all your information is correct. Have you had an address change? A name change? You can verify this information by visiting www.voterview. org or by calling the County Clerkʼs Office at 394-8123. Also, if you will be needing to vote by absentee ballot, please go ahead and contact the County Clerkʼs Office to make that request. The deadline to requests ballots by mail is Tuesday October 27th. Early Voting is also an option and begins October 19th. Election Day is November 3rd.
Property Tax Deadline is Oct. 15
Two weeks remain to pay real estate and personal property taxes without penalty. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, only two customers are allowed in the office at a time, so be prepared to wait longer if paying in person. There is a dropbox located outside the office door if you would like to put your tax payment in it and a receipt will be mailed. Payments may also be mailed to 507 Church Ave or online at tax.countyservice.net.
Welcome to the Chamber Courtesy photo by Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce
The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting Thursday, Sept. 24, which welcomed LazEass RV Park/Campground, located at 116 Polk Rd 55, to the chamber.
16 Law & Order
September 21, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 41 near Shady Grove of identity fraud. Report from complainant of a stolen phone. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 54 near Dallas Valley of identity fraud. Report of a disturbance led to the arrest of Eric Cannon on a Charge of Public Intoxication and a Charge of Impairing Operations of a Vital Public Facility. Arrested by an Officer with the Grannis Police Department was Clayton J. Kesterson, 27, of Cove on a Charge of Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. September 22, 2020 Report of a disturbance led to a juvenile being issued a Juvenile Citation for Disorderly Conduct. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested was Antonio Martini, 58, of Mena on a Charge of Cruelty to Animals. September 23, 2020 Report of an altercation between two juvenile females led to a Juvenile Citation being issued to a juvenile for Battery 3rd Degree. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent/guardian. Arrested by a Trooper with the Arkansas State Police was Bradley C. Brumfield, 30, of Mena on a Charge of Driving While Intoxicated. September 24, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 164 near Rocky of ongoing domestic battery. Complainant refused to press charges. Report from complainant on Polk 31 near Cove of a theft of a four-wheeler and various tools. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Butler Circle near Hatfield of suspicious activity at the residence. Deputy responded. Report from Memphis Air Traffic Control of a drone flying outside of regulated airspace. Investigation continues.
Pulse
September 30, 2020
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 REPORT
THE POLK COUNTY
Report from complainant on Polk 164 near Rocky of an assault. Deputies responded. Information forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report of a disturbance on Heritage Lane near Hatfield. Deputies responded. Arrested was Timothy A. Starr, 47, of Mena on a Warrant for Assault in the 3rd Degree. September 25, 2020 Report of a break-in on Polk 38 near Hatfield. Deputy responded. Report from complainant on Polk 76W near Acorn of identity fraud. Report from complainant on Polk 54 near Dallas Valley of stolen tools in the amount of $700.00. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Huber Lane near Shady Grove of identity fraud. Report of hot checks taken at a local convenience store. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Polk 25 near Cove of the theft of a firearm and $700.00 cash. Deputy responded. Report of a stolen chainsaw located at a local pawn shop. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. September 26, 2020 Report of a structure fire on Polk 126 near Rocky. Deputy responded. Request for a welfare check near Rocky. Deputy responded. September 27, 2020 Report on South Golden Lane near Potter of a burglary. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Hwy 88E near Cherry Hill of a prowler. Deputy responded. Report of a disturbance on Polk 87 near Ink led to the arrest of Shawna M. Morris, 24, of Mena on charges of Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest. Further information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for
consideration of charges. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked no vehicle accidents this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated Inmates, with 9 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORT September 20, 2020 A report of criminal trespass was taken from Walmart. September 21, 2020 A report of harassment and violation of a no contact order was taken from a person at Walmart. A report of theft of property and criminal trespass was taken from Walmart. September 22, 2020 Robert Treat, 40, was charged with Public Intoxication, Driving with a Suspended License and served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Southerland Avenue. A theft report was taken from the Salvation Army. James Didenedetto, 33, was charged with Theft of Property and Criminal Trespass after a complaint from Walmart. A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Port Arthur Avenue. Daniel Chaney, 25, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Reine Street. A report of illegal dumping was taken at Movie Town. September 23, 2020 A report of financial identity fraud was taken from a walk-in complainant. Eric Cross, 38, was charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a complaint from Atwood’s. A report of theft was taken from a person on Morrow Street. September 24, 2020 Timbo Miller, 52, was charged with Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Firearm by Certain Person, and Lena Cooper, 52, was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a traffic stop on Highway 8 West.
September 25, 2020 Two juveniles were charged with Curfew Violation after a complaint on Church Street. September 26, 2020 A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. All subjects should be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law)
STATE CRIME REPORTS
Dead body found in Lake Dardanelle
POPE COUNTY — According to the Pope County Sheriff ’s Office, the body of a Black male was discovered at around 1 p.m. on Sunday, THV11 reports. Officers found the body after responding to a report of a “possible dead body in the lake,” according to a press release from the sheriff ’s office. The body will be sent to the Arkansas Crime Lab for identification and cause of death.
Woman’s death at Hartman under ASP investigation
HARTMAN — The death of a woman whose body was found in the yard outside her home in western Arkansas is being investigated by Arkansas State Police., The Times Record reports. An acquaintance of Melinda Walker, 65, discovered the body Saturday at Walker’s home in Hartman, about 90 miles northwest of Little Rock, state police said in a news release. A suspected cause of death was not released and police say the body was sent to the state crime lab to determine the manner and cause of death. The person who found the body notified the Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office, which asked state police to investigate, according to the release.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
Puzzles 17 09.30.20
09.30.20
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 09.23.20
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! My name is Travis. I am debonair looking 8 year old. Hardly anyone ever believes my age. What can I say? I am a handsome guy, who still loves to play. I am energetic but I really enjoy the low- key lifestyle as well. You want lay around and love on me? I will stay as long as you will. I enjoy people and dogs but I have not been around cats. So, I am not sure if cats and I would get along. I am leash trained and enjoy going on walks. Being a shepherd/Great Pyrenees mix, I am a larger fella at about 76 pounds. However, with my large size I do try to be gentle. People also notice quite quickly how much I try to be in tuned to the person who is with me. I look for cues and commands to ensu ensure I am minding correctly. I do require a monthly heartworm preventative to keep me in my best health. I always look forward to meeting new people and being petted. So, come by HSO and ask for Travis! All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for dogs includes a harness, leash, collar, bed, piece of clothing and toy selection. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
18 Classifieds - SERVICES Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also lite deliveries. (870)4901191 T093020 Land Clearing, Tree Service, Lawn Care and Roofing. RC Customz land clearing, mulching and more. Services include: Stump grinding, Fence lines, clearing of lots, brush-hogging, trenching, fencing, tree services, mowing and more. Mulching is a great solution for clearing overgrowth while leaving desirable trees. We service both residential and commercial customers. Military discount available. Insured. Please call 479-216-2976 for a free estimate. T100720
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
CLASSIFIEDS - YARD SALE Huge Sale Oct 1, 2, 3 at 148 RCC Lane. Take Hwy 8E to Polk Rd 53 to RCC Lane Follow the signs! T09302020 Garage Sale, One day ONLY! Saturday Oct. 3, 2020. 2800 Michelle Drive. Open 8AM-??? Furniture, rugs, bedding, assorted home decor, clothing, and much more!
- FOR RENT For Rent - 1 Bedroom duplex for rent, Janssen Park area, yard not fenced, $400 per month. Senior discount. Call (479)234-3669. Available 11/1/2020 T10072020
- EMPLOYMENT -
Now hiring dependable, skilled and unskilled construction workers. Top pay for the area. No phone calls please. Must apply in person. RCI Construction, 504 Dequeen St, Mena, AR 71953 T093020 Wanted - Domestic Help - cleaning, cooking, and running errands. 30 hours a week plus flexibility. (479)216-7206 T100720
Opening for assisted living in my non smoking home, located in Mena, good neighborhood. Offering care giving with 18 years experience, excellent references available. Beautiful private rooms with TV, home cooked meals, and personal care. Now taking applications. Call Ann (479)234-0461 T100720
OFFICE MANAGER
- PETS FREE to good home. 9 month old male pug. Had all shots including rabies. Wormed and flea meds. I have to find a home for him. Text (479)216-5136
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SATURDAY OCT. 3RD 10:30 A.M. THIS YEAR TITLED
“SUPERNATURAL LIGHT” God put in the church chu gifts and yes, they may have been used wrong at times, but Gods Word is still the same and we need to receive those Supernatural gifts, unwrap them and use them. Evangelist Carla Kelly who at one time lived here years ago will be ministering Sat. morning and afternoon. he and their Booneville family will be here band will lead us in Praise & Worship! Also if you don’t have a home church join us Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. Please register for Sat. by calling
479-394-6763 or 479-394-1126 (All precautions will be taken to protect everyone).
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
News 19
September 30, 2020
Train derails in south Polk County Photo courtesy of Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer
The railroad crossing on Polk 200, north of Grannis, is shut down due to a train and gravel-truck wreck. There were no injuries, but the train and track sustained some damage and it is going to take awhile to get it cleared, Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said. Until it is reopened, use Polk 6 or Polk 98 as alternative routes.
CARES continued from page 1 did not happen this year as a result of hospitals and schools and other entities COVID and that resulted in an economic impact in the county. Likewise, the senior centers have been delivering food to the most vulnerable population as a result of the pandemic. So, those two things meet the application requirements, even though they are not county owned. The county is not giving them county money. We are simply making the request on their behalf as part of the process to bring CARES Act funding to the local level,” Ellison said. Ellison told the Quorum Court that he has reservations regarding the CARES Act funding. “I’m not really a big fan of CARES Act. It is federal money dolled out to states, first to cities with populations of 500,000 - cities like San Fransisco, Chicago, Dallas . They got direct payments. The rest of the money was given to states. Arkansas got $1.25 billion and no cities got direct funding in Arkansas,” he said. The funding cannot be used for revenue loss at a local level and comes with many restrictions. “The state is dolling out money to
- not that they didn’t deserve it, but yet local governments were not getting any thing,” Ellison said. The state has set aside $75 million for counties and $75 million for cities , but comes with stipulations on how it can be spent. A consultant group was hired by the state to offer guidance and ensure funding applications met those stipulations. “They have decided some budget items could be reimbursed, if you can prove or document they were used in a substantially different way,” Ellison said. “An example is emergency dispatch. They have additional procedures because of the pandemic. Now in court we have extra deputies during court and screening before coming in, which is substantially different. Jailers also have to approach their job different.” Ellison said the applications may be denied, but it is worth the effort to make the request. “It makes me nervous, but the consultants said it is good. Worst thing that happens, they give us money and
then ask for it back,” he said. Polk County has been allocated $681,000, however Ellison said it is not prudent to attempt to obtain those funds, unless the stipulations are met. “It is an opportunity to get that in projects - that money has not been given to us,” he said. “The state has said they would really like to see counties help out in local areas with food. Anything we can do that is a good thing, we should do.” Projects costing more than $50,000 have more scrutiny, so Ellison suggested keeping projects to a smaller scale. “It gets rubber stamped if it is an eligible item. For example, senior centers, food for vulnerable people. I feel that is some thing we should do, if we can. Same with the fair association. They didn’t have the fair and that’s how they make money.” The applications request $30,000 for the Polk County Fair and Rodeo Association; $24,000 for each senior center; and an undetermined amount for hazard pay for deputies, dispatchers and jailers.
COMING SOON! Coming the week of Oct 1
David Henderson M.D. Now accepting Patients.
Call 394.7301 to make your appointment! Adult Patients Age 18+
20
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
September 30, 2020
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