Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600
December 6, 2023
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Holiday Train thrills the kids, donates $4,000 to The Salvation Army
INSIDE:
Article and photos by Ethan Nahté
Steve Price At UARM
Page 25
Acorn Homecoming Court
Pages 14-15
The CPKC Holiday Train rolled into Mena Last Wednesday, Nov. 29, a little ahead of schedule. The engine stopped short of the crossing at Fourth Street and Highway 71 and waited 15-20 minutes as a few adults and children arrived, as well as busloads of students from Louise Durham Elementary, which helped to make for a decent-sized audience for a late morning concert in the middle of the work/school week. The train, decorated with Christmas lights arranged in winter-themed designs, holiday patterns and words would’ve been more spectacular at dark, but many of the children were thrilled just with the festive train rolling in and stopping in front of them, blocking off Seventh Street and extending almost back to Mena Street. After a bit of a delay, a specially designed door came down like a drawbridge, forming the basis of stage as Canadian pop performer Kiesza came
bounding out in her festive North Pole attire, opening the show with her song “3 Hos.” A few of the parents seemed to have a look of concern at first, but Kiesza performed a family-friendly version of her 2018 single. On stage with her was a drummer and bassist while the guitars, keyboards and other bits were backing tracks, but she did appear to be singing live and not lip syncing. She did a quick set of three or four tunes that were a combination of holiday favorites rocked up. She was also very energetic as she got the children dancing and excited about the performance. After Kiesza’s set, a representative from CPKC came Kiesza belting it out for the crowd on the out onstage to thank the crowd CPKC Holiday Train in Mena, Arkansas. and to invite Mena Mayor Seth See TRAIN Smith onto the stage to say a few words.
continued on page 4
Olivieri: Healing, training, helping the horses
By Ethan Nahté Part Four
Mena Christmas Festivities
Pages 13, 16 & 26
Untouched and unbroken In part three, actor Dawn Olivieri left off talking about the beginning of recovery of a young foal named Starr. Not all of the rescued horses she has
encountered have been as lucky, although the mortality rate has been low thus far. The other potential issues range from foals being separated from their mothers or herd to the possibility that once the rescued horses have been treated and given a good bill
of health, there still may be work to do to even get a halter or bit on the horse, much less a saddle for someone who might want to adopt a horse for their own. And not all of the “kill buyers” are
See HORSES continued on page 9
2 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Where to find Santa Claus in Polk County By Ethan Nahté
out Polk County over the next few and Mrs. Claus: weeks. Saturday, Dec. 9 Santa Claus, along with Mrs. Claus, Here are the Santa sighting and - Pictures and visit with Santa the occasional elf, and even the picture opportunities where you and Mrs. Claus - Calvary BapGrinch, will be appearing through- can get a photo and talk to Santa tist Church Fellowship Hall, 2100 Hwy 375 W from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Cove’s 29th Annual Christmas Extravanganza featuring the Christmas Parade, followed by a meet and greet at the Community Center, 5568 Hwy. 71, beside Town Hall, 2 p.m. Come meet Santa. Bring a camera and take a photo. For additional ino call 870-387-5791 during business hours. - Pictures and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus - Shady Mountain Events, Hwy. 375 E, 4-6 p.m. Santa’s helper, Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Santa House in Janssen Park.
(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
Saturday, Dec. 16 - Toys for Tots, Elks Club, Hwy. 375 E, 8 a.m. to noon. Requires postcard mailed out from Polk County Toys for Tots. - Santa’S Outback Barn, Janssen Park, 1-3 p.m. - Toys for Tots, Q on Main (Suzy Q’s), 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21 - Union Bank Santa and the Grinch, 2-4 p.m. CORRECTION: The schedule printed in the Nov. 29 edition of The Pulse listed the Mena Fire Department. That is not a public event. It is the department’s private Christmas party.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
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The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
I want to repeat to you stories from the news over the last few years and then pose a few questions. One of the first acts of the current administration upon taking office was to shut down the Keystone pipeline. Predictably, gas prices rose, and remain high making everything needed to exist more expensive. President Biden went to Saudi Arabia in an effort to get them to increase production to lower gas prices, to no avail. His next move was to release some of the strategic petroleum reserves to lower prices, and the effect was short term. If you Google the Strategic Petroleum Reserves our current level is 351 million barrels, the lowest since 1980, and none is being replaced. Railroads were going to move oil. When railroad workers threatened to strike our president stepped in and shut down the strike before it happened. Not so with the United Auto Workers. Seems odd to favor one over the other and begs the question of who owes who. Ukraine is attacked and we send military aid and money into the billions with no end in sight. Now we are sending Israel aide in the form of money and weapons of war. I am not saying we should not render aid but do question our ability to defend our own country. By rendering aid to other countries, we have depleted our stockpiles of weapons/munitions needed to fight our own wars. No doubt our enemies have taken note of this. Couple this with an influx of
Letters 3
Want to share your opinion? illegal immigrants that have not been vetted and, aside from the financial/medical burden they impose, the glaring question should be how many of these young military age men/women are terrorists waiting to destroy us from within? Disease, drugs, terrorists, financial drain, and gun smuggling are but a few reasons to secure our borders and expel those who would do us harm. Our government is in constant gridlock, unable to agree on anything and failing to put the needs of our country above their own political agendas. These same folks have us over $33 trillion in debt and growing by the minute, with no plan to pay down our debt or rein in spending. All these stories have been on the evening news and looked at together should raise alarms and questions. Most notably, how capable are we to mount a defense if attacked? Who are our allies? Is there a concerted effort by our enemies to weaken us? Can we afford free healthcare for millions of non-productive illegals? What will it take to get our elected officials to do their jobs? There are so many questions that need answers. Sadly, history shows great republics of the past lasted less than 200 years, and we’ve passed that mark already. The most important question is, are we willing to do what it
The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language. Letters do not reflect the viewpoints or opinions of Pulse Multi-Media. The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request. Letters will be restricted to 500 words. Any letters longer than 500 words will require purchase of advertising space. The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher. Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after-hour convenience.
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takes to survive and be the beacon of freedom we once were? Thank you for a forum to express my thoughts, though we may peacefully disagree. With respect and kindest regards, Ronald Goss, retired, Mena
4 News
December 6, 2023
TRAIN minute or so talking to the audience, with the same drummer and bassist continued from page 1 introducing themselves and explain- Kiesza used, as well as backing tracks.
Then another woman came out and presented a check for The Salvation
Army of Mena in the amount of $4,000. Next up was the Australian country music duo Seaforth, who spent a
ing why they “talk sort of funny.” The songwriting team of Tom Jordan and
Mitch Thompson shared vocal duties while Jordan played lead guitar and Thompson played electric acoustic
Like Kiesza they did a couple of originals and a Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Then they were joined by Kiesza for a rocking finale with “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” The drawbridge door closed, but Kiesza got off the train and shook hands and hugged kids for a few minutes. Many of the kids had candy canes and some were giving their candy cane to her. She tried to return them, saying they would probably want them, but some children insisted. She thanked them, giving more hugs and high-fives before having to hop back on the train and leave out for their next performance. All in all, it was an entertaining half hour, and several kids were talking excitedly as they lined up for the buses. Even some of the adults found the show enjoyable and the atmosphere quite festive.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
The country music duo Seaforth (far left), originally from Australia, now out of Nashville, Tennessee. Kiesza (above) meeting some of her new, young fans from Louise Durham Elementary.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Politics 5
December 6, 2023
From the
State House of Representatives
This week, the House Agriof 1997, the Digital Product culture, Forestry and Economand Motion Picture Indusic Development Committee try Development Act of 2009, and subsequent amendments approved two interim studies in 2021 and 2023 have creatregarding tax incentives. The first interim study proed a system of rebates and tax posal approved directs the credits intended to support the committee to study the sales John Maddox production of a film and digital content industry in Arkansas. and use tax exemptions for A study conducted by the Arkanfarm machinery and equipment and the potential use of sales and use tax sas Economic Development Institute exemption cards. found that for every $1 million in tax The committee was informed there is incentive payments, total spending by a disparity between how Arkansas and the motion picture production indussome of the states that surround Ar- try equaled $4.60 million. The study kansas administer sales and use tax ex- also found that $1 million in tax incenemptions for farming, which can lead tive payments had a direct impact on to greater burdens on Arkansas farm- value-added (state GDP) of $2.71 milers than those experienced by farmers lion, with indirect and induced effects adding an additional $1.35 million, for in surrounding states. The committee will determine if a total impact of $4.06 million. there is a potential need for legislation The committee will now study infor the 2025 Regular Session to address creased and additional film incentives the issue. for the long-term development of the The second interim study approved film and television industry in the state regarding tax incentives directs the and state funding strategies to create a committee to study the development of thriving film and television industry in a strategy to incentivize the long-term the state. development of film and television We’ve posted the interim study proposals on our website at www.arkansasproductions in the state. The Motion Picture Incentive Act house.org.
Contact Your Legislators!
John Maddox
John Boozman
john.maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060
1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553
Terry Rice
Bruce Westerman
Terry.Rice@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 2195 Waldron, AR 72958 479-637-3100
101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887
From the
State Senate
The Department of Parks, According to the secretary, Heritage and Tourism pubArkansas has entered new lishes a report every year on advertising markets. Tradithe health of the state’s tourtionally Arkansas promotes its ism industry. tourist destinations in media According to the most reoutlets in nearby urban areas cent statistics available, toursuch as Dallas, Tulsa, Oklahoism in Arkansas has never ma City, Memphis, Saint LouTerry Rice been stronger. is, Kansas City and Chicago. Last year more than 48 million peoAdvertising is placed in a diverse ple visited Arkansas, an increase of sev- array of media in order to focus on en million over the previous year. The families, motorcycle clubs, bus excurmoney they spent, and the jobs they sions, history enthusiasts and people supported, continue to make tourism researching their genealogy. one of the pillars of the Arkansas econWhile Arkansas has long been popomy. Tourism in the state is a $9.2 bil- ular as a destination for outdoor recrelion industry. ation, we can now promote cultural acLast year set a record in collections tivities like fine dining, music festivals of the 2 percent Tourism Reinvestment and art galleries. Tax. It is collected at hotels, marinas, The hospitality industry is already theme parks and retailers that sell tour- preparing for April 8, 2024, when a ism-related items. The revenue pays for total eclipse of the sun will darken the marketing and promotion of the state’s sky along a path from southwest to destinations. northeast. The most impressive place Last year the tax generated $24.3 to experience the eclipse is along the million, which was 16 percent great- so-called “path of totality.” Hot Springs, er than in 2021 and greater than the Little Rock and Jonesboro are in that collections in our best pre-pandemic path. So are Russellville, Morrilton, years. Heber Springs, Fairfield Bay, Mountain According to the secretary of the Home, Flippin, Searcy, Arkadelphia, tourism agency, more than 68,000 jobs Texarkana, Malvern and Conway. in Arkansas are related to the tourism All of Interstate 30, from Texarkana industry. That is a 6.2 percent increase to Little Rock, is within the path of the over 2021. total solar eclipse. Visitors spent $9.2 billion. The largest The eclipse begins at about 12:30 and category was for transportation, which totality begins at 1:46 p.m. and ends at accounted for 31 percent of the total. 1:59 p.m. Most locations in Arkansas Next was spending on food and bev- will experience the total eclipse for two erages, which accounted for 27 percent or three minutes. of the total. Lodging accounted for 17 Times and durations will vary, even percent, recreation and entertainment within the same city, depending on for 13 percent and retail purchases for how far away you are from the center 11 percent. line of the path of the eclipse. The department has placed a reEven though the eclipse will not ocnewed emphasis on promoting Arkan- cur for another five months, it’s possas as a destination for outdoor activ- sible to buy posters, T-shirts, coffee ities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, mugs, throw pillows and other souveclimbing, cycling, bird watching and nirs with eclipse themes. boating.
6 Obituaries Jean Marie Maranell Jean Marie Maranell, age 89, of Mena, Arkansas, died Monday, November 27, 2023, at Medical City Dallas in Dallas, Texas. She was born on Monday, April 9, 1934, to Percy Parks and Georgia Parks in Sheldon, Iowa. Jean was raised in Sheldon along with her siblings, Winifred, Don, Margie and Wilma. The family moved to Harris, Iowa, where she attended Harris high school until she was married in 1950 to Chuck Maranell. The newly married couple moved to Mena, Arkansas, where they lived until 1953, at which time they moved back to Milford, Iowa. She lived happily in Milford raising her children, enjoying her many friends and being the number one fan of a band, The Rhythm Tones, whose lead singer was her husband, Chuck. She worked for 35 years for Berkley & Co in Spirit Lake, Iowa, and retired in 1995 to move back to Mena. Jean was an avid reader and a lover of Country Western and Classical music. Jean is preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Charles “Chuck” Nicholas Maranell. Jean is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Nicholas and Jody Maranell of Estherville, Iowa, and Jim and Nikki Maranell of Farmer’s Branch, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Vicki and Robert Brevik of Arnolds Park, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Gabriel Maranell, Jennifer Perkins, Shane Brevik, Shoni Brevik, Shilo Brevik, Jess Maranell, and Brogan Maranell; sisters, Winifred Adam’s and Margie Sikma and spouse, Harold; seven great-grandchildren;
December 6, 2023 several nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, Arkansas, with Father Joseph Shantiraj as celebrant. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com
Jay Dodd
Mr. Jay Dodd, age 94, passed from this world on November 29, 2023. He was born September 23, 1929, in rural Marion County, Alabama, to parents Sherman C. Dodd and Hassie McWhirter Dodd. Since moving his family to Arkansas fifty years ago, Jay has been a dozer operator-clearing land, performing contract work for the U.S.F.S., building ponds and other work for the public. He was an outdoorsman and could rarely be found indoors. He enjoyed raising his cattle and working on his farm every chance he got. Jay (“Grandpa Jay”) is survived by his beautiful loving wife of 68 years, Carreen Dodd; daughters, Sandy Gray (Monte) and Nancy Dodd of Hatfield; sons, Mike Dodd (Terry) and Matt Dodd (Leslie), of Blanchard, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Millie, Mandy, Jacob, Becky, Ronda, Luke, Tonya, Andrea, Travis and Jennie; 21 great-grandchildren; nephews, Rusty Elliott, Max Dodd and Mark Dodd; and niece Gwenda Alexander. Jay was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter Maddison Martin and grandsons, Wayne Dodd and Johnny Dodd.
Jay proudly served our country in the Army during the Korean War in 1951-1953. He was a life-long member of the Church of Christ, serving as a deacon many of those years. Pallbearers are Jacob Yates, Luke Dodd, Travis Dodd, Mason Martin, Kevin Hillier and Chad Ainsworth. Honorary Pallbearer is Kody Martin. General Visitation will be held at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Graveside services for Mr. Jay Dodd will be held at the Mollie Gann Cemetery on Monday, December 4th, at 10:00 a.m. with Brother Kevin Randolph officiating. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
Charles Raymond Cunningham Charles Cunningham of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away Sunday, November 12, at home. He was born to Raymond and Norma (Honey) Cunningham in Mena, Arkansas, June 5, 1939. He graduated from Mena in 1956. He joined the army and served in the Korean War. He was also sent to Little Rock, Arkansas, to help contain peace during their integration. He is survived by his wife Macaline; son Scott; daughter Lisa of Wyoming, two granddaughters and one grandson, all of Wyoming; two brothers Bobby and Kay of Florida, Wiley and Lonna of Foreman, Arkansas; one sister Kay and Jerry Rector of Mena, Arkansas; a host of nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his parents, song Brian Cunningham, and brother Dennis Cunningham.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse Jimmie LeRoy Davidson Jimmie LeRoy Davidson, 81, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away at his home in Boardcamp, Arkansas, on September 29, 2023. He was a Member of the Army Reserves for most of his life. He enjoyed being a survivalist, collecting guns, knives, and enjoyed kayaking in his free time. Jimmie is survived by; one daughter, Donna Singleton; two sons, Scott and David Davidson. He is preceded in death by his parents. There will be no services, he will be interred at Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Chelsi Aeriel Bates Ms. Chelsi Aeriel Bates, age 31, passed away Wednesday, November 29, 2023, in Morris, Illinois. She was born March 21, 1992, to parents Robert Bates and DeAnn Ellis, in Mena, Arkansas. Chelsi was a graduate of Mena High School, class of 2010. She was a homemaker by profession but had experience as a retail worker, most notably she worked at the Sunshine House Daycare. Chelsi had a very unique personality, with her tastes and interests ranging from crafting, gardening, and being an avid fan of all kinds of music (especially The Beatles), to being the biggest fan of The Boston Red Sox. Above all else, Chelsi loved her family, especially her children. Ms. Bates is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Mike and Teresa Bates; maternal grandparents, Jim and Alta Flemens; and by her step-grandparents, Mike and Connie Brown. She is survived by her son, Easton Luke Schoeppey; daughter, Juliet Ariel Schoeppey; mother and stepfather, DeAnn and Allen Ellis; father and stepmother, Robert and Jeannie Bates; brothers, Joshua Anthony Bates, Mathew Meade and wife Sophie, Adyen Ellis; sisters, Madison Ellis, Evelynn Ellis, Joscelyn Bates; niece, Maybree Bates; nephew, Dylan Meade; cousins, Carrie Lero, Jessica McDonald, Danielle Flemens Jones, Justin Flemens, Tiffany Simpson, Tyler Simpson, Jared
Flemens, Rilee Jean Flemens, Jacob Dylan Flemens, Bryan Bates, Elijah Snider, Noah Snider; aunts, Peggy Sue Yenser, Jovan Flemens Thomas and husband Mike, Brandee “DeeDee” Wheeler and husband Mark; uncles, Roger Dale Flemens and wife June, Jerry Flemens, Mikeal Bates and wife Mona; as well as a host of other friends and family who will love and miss her. Memorial services for Ms. Chelsi Aeriel Bates will be held Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., at the Beasley-Wood Chapel, in Mena, Arkansas. Joshua Ward will be officiating the services under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
One day you’ll find that I have gone. But tomorrow may rain, so I’ll follow the sun. ~ Lennon-McCartney
Obituaries 7
A LITTLE LOST SHEEP NAMED TAQUITO Jesus said, “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness and go after the one which is lost, until he finds it? And then when finds it, he lays it on his shoulder, rejoicing.” (Luke 15:4,5). I had read this many times, but recently I saw this played out in real life. Let me tell you the story. Recently, I was riding around with my friend Beverly and her little pet dog named Taquito. Beverly stopped and parked the truck near a freshly mowed yard of a business so that Taquito could have a little break. It is important to note that Taquito is almost blind and also very nearly deaf. So, Taquito left the truck and began to run. In running, Taquito tried to cross a narrow bridge over a rocky creek bottom and, because she couldn’t see well, she fell off of the bridge into the rocky creek below, a ten-foot fall. Dazed and disoriented by the fall, Taquito began to run trying to find out where she was. She ran into a thicket of thorns and briars and her lostness was compounded. She was really lost now. So, she just kept on going. She could not see very much and could not hear Beverly calling her, so she just kept on looking for Beverly... and Beverly kept on calling her. Beverly loved that little dog very, very much. So, she went into the creek bottom. Taquito wasn’t there, so she climbed out, grabbing hold of rocks, roots, or anything else that would help her to climb up the embankment out of the creek, then into the thicket! Neither thorns, thistles, dangers from snakes, spiders, scratched hands, arms, back, or loose, falling rocks could stop her; she would find her dog, no matter what, and would not quit until she found little Taquito. Taquito finally got out of the thicket, but she ended up on a city street that had much traffic. Her danger now increased. She had littler chance to get out of this situation! But Beverly had been searching for her for one solid hour from the very moment that she strayed. Now Beverly got into the truck and began to look in the street for Taquito. Beverly saw Taquito, two hundred yards away, in the middle of that street with much traffic. Beverly jumped out of the truck and literally ran to Taquito. In spite of the traffic, she reached down, picked up Taquito, pulled that little dog that she loved so much to her chest and carried her to the safety of the truck. Taquito represents the “lost sheep,” which is so much like us when we stray from Him. The thicket is the world and Satan. And they are trying to keep us lost. But there is One who will search until He finds us, even if it costs His own life. I saw Jesus in Beverly as she searched so diligently, even at the risk of her own life in busy traffic, and she would not give up until her little dog was safe in her arms. We are like Taquito. Beverly was so very much like Jesus, as He never gives up in His search for us. We get “offtrack,” but He knows, and He cares, and He is able. And He takes us unto Himself, back into the safety of His arms. Like Beverly, Jesus never gives up either, even if it leads to a cross. I will never forget the day I saw acted out the story of the lost sheep and the Good Shepherd. It became so clear: this passion He has for His sheep... His kids. He loves us and He will never give up until we are back in the fold.
PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF JESUS
8 History
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Reflections from History and Faith:
‘Merry Christmas, Darling’ —The Birth of a Treasure By Jeff Olson As we move further into the Christmas season, our lives take on attitudes, priorities, and activities commensurate with what has been called “The Most Wonderful Time of Year.” A part of this includes the music of the season and without a doubt practically all of us have our own personal favorites. Some are faith-based, some are inspirational, some are sentimental, some are festive, some are humorous, and some may be a combination thereof. Preparation for our Christmas celebration and even the celebration itself are often flavored by these songs and the memories they bring back to life. Even those songs we don’t particularly like may have a role in this journey. “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” is one which comes to mind, though many of us still find the humor in this seasonal ditty. Sometimes the stories behind these songs contribute to their special place in our Christmas experience and perhaps our relationships as well. Some of these stories may never come to light for many of us, so what I hope to do is help that along with a song or two this year. Today, our story begins in Wisconsin in 1944, when 18-year-old Frank composed a Christmas love song for his high school sweetheart. The two were spending the holiday apart, so Frank’s lyrics expressed his longing to be with her during the special season of Christmas. Like many teenage relationships, this one faded and their relationship ended before he was able present his special Christmas gift to
Frank Pooler (center) flanked by his talented students Karen and Richard Carpenter, who had a hit with Pooler’s “Merry Christmas, Darling.”
her. Still, Frank held on to his song and even had it published and recorded, but never distributed. Now, let me say this before I go any further. Frank was not just your ordinary smitten young man on the verge of love... or maybe in the midst of it. He was also not just a young man who liked music. In 1943, while still a high school student, Frank founded and directed the first children’s choir at First (Norwegian) Lutheran Church. As you might expect, Frank went on to a career in music and what a career it was! His working with Scandinavian composers in Norway, Sweden and Denmark resulted in the English publication of more than 100 Scandinavian choral works. In 1955, he was named a Fellow of the American-Scandinavian Foundation. He served as the music director at the First Baptist Church in Albert Lea, Minnesota, earned a master’s degree at University of Iowa, worked at
Shimer College in Chicago and did a brief stint at New Trier High School in Chicago. In 1959, he headed west to work at California State University, Long Beach where he would go on to establish the Department of Choral Music and teach there for 28 years, before retiring in 1988. In the mid-1960s, two of Frank’s talented students/choir members at California State performed on the side locally at various venues during the Christmas season. While the standard Christmas songs they did were well received, the pair wanted to expand their repertoire and try some new material. Not sure where else to turn for ideas, they consulted with their favorite professor. It was then and there that Frank remembered the Christmas song he had written many years before and mentioned it to one of the students with the suggestion that he give the lyrics a better musical
setting than the one he had written himself. So, Richard did just that and in less than a half hour he created a song, written by two teenagers a generation apart, that was destined to become a Christmas classic. Thanks to the lyrics of Frank Pooler in 1944 and Richard Carpenter in 1966... and the smooth and pure vocals of Karen Carpenter in 1970, we have “Merry Christmas, Darling” by the Carpenters. The single was released on Nov. 20, 1970, and went straight to No. 1 on “Billboard’s” Christmas charts. It would return to that spot again in 1971 and 1973. The song earned gold record status and inspired the idea for a Christmas album by The Carpenters. On Oct. 13, 1978, “Christmas Portrait” was released with a newly recorded version of “Merry Christmas, Darling.” This new version was presented on their TV Christmas special which aired on ABC on Dec. 19, 1978, and it became a hit all over again. So, whatever happened to the young lady for whom Frank wrote his special song back in Wisconsin in 1944? Fifty-eight years later, in 2002, he decided to look her up and he found her not far away in Palm Springs. He arranged for them to meet, where he informed her that she had been his muse, his inspiration. She responded, “Now I have a treasure.” A treasure indeed, over 25 years in the making and the legacy of one man’s tender heart, which after nearly 80 years, continues to bring joy and love in the Christmas season for millions of us.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
HORSES kill pens or at the sale barns, and it call the kill pen funnel. They’re on a continued from page 1 makes sense, you can’t feed all these fast track to wherever someone will necessarily wanting to destroy the animals consistently, right? These take them. By that time, they’re gonhorses. Some of them try to auction barns are just there to move them. na get sold per pound and they’re the horses off either at a sale barn or Then if they don’t make it there, they gonna get trucked either to Mexico on their own online sites. Like any get trucked to another place and then or to Canada, depending on the dibusiness, some are more reputable they get trucked to another place and rection they’ve been hauled. and legit than others. “What happens is they will do these round ups and they will put them in the sale barns,” Olivieri said. “People may go to the sale barn, they may piecemeal them, they may auction, maybe they’ll pick one of them in an auction. Maybe some of them get rehomed. “But the problem is that these are all untouched horses. For the average person, a lot of people don’t wanna take that on. They’re like, ‘I just want one I can get on. I wanna get in the saddle and I wanna ride.’ “So that’s the downfall to a lot of these horses is that they haven’t had anybody take the time and wanna give them a couple buttons and even feel like they could do something like that.” Dawn Olivieri takes an active part in the care and feeding of the A simplified definition of a “start horses she is rescuing. (Photo by Deborah Michelle) button” is a way for an animal to “This is sort of the extent of my give consent to an action the trainer depending on who’s buying a lot of would like the animal to do, allowing them, right? A kill buyer will go in knowledge. I know people have told the animal to communicate to the and they’ll go and buy these 50 head, me that the babies, because they don’t trainer whether or not they’re ready and then they’ll take that 50 head weigh very much, they’re not gonna get much from a kill buyer, but they for the event or action to occur. It can them to another sale barn. “Now, they may still try to offer will go to auction. If nobody buys involve something as simple as the horse, in this case, touching apiece of them for up for adoption… for sale. them, zoos will come in and will buy tack or the saddle the trainer would And each time their price is increas- them to feed the animals at the zoo. ing because it’s costing people more If no one’s caring for these babies, like to place on the horse. There are other popular behavior- to feed them. It’s costing them mon- they’re not getting milk, they’re not al training methods such as clicker ey to transport them, to feed them all getting the proper sustenance, they of the time. So, they’ll have 10 days do start to decline pretty quickly. If training. Olivieri suggests at least wanting to maybe max at another sale barn. If no one is there to help them or, or halter train, because there is the risk nobody buys them there, you have to save them, then they get processed that a horse that appears too wild figure if no one is buying the animal into feed for zoo animals. “I don’t like that,” Olivieri said. “I or untrainable will be passed over and it’s untouched, people aren’t tryat the auctions, which could even- ing to spend the time to do [socializ- don’t like that these sweet little babies… they didn’t ask for that. It rips tually make the horse too expensive ing or training]. Then they [go] quickly what you my heart apart a bit.” to keep. “No one buys them at these
News 9 Getting healthy One of Olivieri’s goals is to get the health of the horses back up followed by some level of being trained, then adopt them out to carefully screened potential buyers. But it is a process. “I didn’t really realize this would be such a prolifically long quarantine because the immune systems were so low. I’ve learned a lot in this beginning of these rescues and what to do. “They would get colds because the strep [from strangles] just opens their immune system up for other things. These poor little babies would start with that, and they couldn’t shake it. “There’s a lot of conflicting information on how to treat strangles.” She begins a rapid-fire dichotomy of what should or shouldn’t be done. “You, you don’t use antibiotics. You do use antibiotics. You wait till a certain time to use the antibiotics. What kind of antibiotics? Penicillin doesn’t really work that well. Excede [antibiotic] is better.” When you’re racing time to find what is going to slow or stop an infection before it spreads or begins taking an irreversible toll on the animals, it becomes stressful and frustrating. “You’re learning all of these things and the type of feed to give them the best chance,” Olivieri said. “It’s been a trial-and-error sort of situation. But I think with the vets coming, they really helped sort of shed some light on who still needed attention, who to filter out and put into the healthy pen, who to keep into the sick pen and what to do with that sick pen, how to space the babies out enough to where once that sickness was contained, it could then be squashed. “We pulled all those babies from those mamas because the babies See HORSES continued on page 10
10 News HORSES continued from page 9 were getting sick, and the mamas are so healthy and wonderful. They’re in a seven-acre pasture right now doing their thing. All of those mares appear to be also pregnant again. They were already exposed for a second round wherever they were coming from. “That’s another part of this cycle. It’s like the ultimate Momma Baby Army where there were actually two babies here. We had to work with one inside — in utero — and one that was already outside but getting really sick. That’s the order though. We’re very close to squashing all these runny noses and all this strangles. Training preparation Once that is behind us, I have a trainer already lined up that’s coming and has already started halter training some of these babies. I feel like those babies are gonna be the first that we’ll be able to rehome and find good places where they can be coddled and trained and worked with from a very early age. That’s our first order of business is getting a lot of those older babies groomed and halter trained… halter broke, and then put up and available for adoption. “Then with the mares, I may adopt some of them out that are not pregnant to start, but whoever seems heavy bred, I’m not gonna put them through that stress. I’m gonna allow them to have the babies on the property and then give them the time they need.” They’ll have plenty of room, no doubt. The actor’s property outside of Mena is 160 acres total, but she currently has them restricted to a seven-acre pasture until health and training are under more control. Olivieri said, “The mare, all the babies, are in separated corrals that
December 6, 2023 Tarter [USA] donated. They have sort of temporary structures set up. I have temporary shelters that are up. It’s like a graduation process. We have a sick pen, quarantine pen, and then over in the next corral is the pretty healthy ones. We’re about to build another space for the very healthy ones. Those would be the ones that would be ready to be adopted. “I’m sort of like going as I go,” she admits. “I don’t have a plan and I have never had a plan from the beginning, but it seems that the plan sort of unfolds and shares its plan with me as we go.” Managing the ranch In addition to veterinarians and someone to keep up the property while she’s on location for a television series, it also takes farm hands and volunteer workers. “I have a few. I always need more, but I’m working with a pretty solid group of girls that just showed up and wanted to volunteer. I’ve put a couple of them working for me now. But really, there’s not many of us. I didn’t really wanna open it up quite yet until The Strangles is underway because everybody has to disinfect their boots and their clothes just because nobody wants to move it around. But the good thing about strangles is long as it’s not in a water source, it’ll last in the ground only like three to eight days. If it’s in a water source. It’s like three to six weeks in a water source like in a bucket or in a water tub.” Expenses go beyond medicine and feed. There is farming equipment, fuel to operate the equipment, and the regular everyday expenses for utilities and other costs to maintain the property in addition to the donations from Tarter, Purina and Tractor Supply Co. “Most of the monetary assistance
is coming through a crowd funding outsourcing online. People will donate to my Paypal, my Venmo, we have a gofundme right now to dig a well,” she said. “People follow this story online, and they’re everywhere, literally all over the world. People will send money from wherever they’re at and that’s how they help. Beyond the volunteers Olivieri spoke of, she has been receiving support here in the Polk County area. “Local people have sent checks. They end up volunteering in different ways. It’s almost like you need both of those outlets. The local people wanna help so much, but they do it a bit different. A lot of people don’t have Cash app or abilities to pay that way. I’ve had people donate feeders, hay receptacles, hay and they’ve done all kinds of things like that… and in a time where I was really in a pinch. It’s like to have the local community sort of stand up and be like, ‘We’re gonna help you out, too.’ It’s been pretty much all hands on deck in both respects. There is a lot of potential for volunteering, as well as education outreach. Who knows, but perhaps local members of FFA or 4-H chapters might have an interest in assisting. There could always be the possibility with the proper training that some of the horses could become a therapy animal. The options might not be limitless, but the potential for growth, enrichment and bringing people and animals together is there for the taking. “I would love that,” she said. “That’s part of the dream is that it involves the community in a way that people can come and experience what a rescued horse is like, and maybe even adopt some and realize that it’s not that hard to do. You could do that. It’s doable. If I could do 50 you can do
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
one.” “I think it’s just cool across the board. I think it’s great for moms and dads to bring their kids and to show them what volunteering is like and how much you can help, assist them or an effort by showing up and lending your services. I just think it’s a great way to role model — true, authentic, living in a giving manner. “I gotta say the people that have shown up locally to help have been the most beautiful, wonderful selfless people. I’ve had families show up and build gates. I’ve had people pick up feed from Hot Springs when there was a load dropped over there. And I’ve had people help me put up fences and gates. One of my main girls, Emma, she’s a fisherman in Alaska, but she’s like, ‘It’s always been my dream to run a horse rescue.’ Now she’s one of the main women that helped me on the property. It’s amazing to love horses and to see these poor souls come in ragged and then be getting this special food, eat alfalfa, have access to bigger spaces and then the potential of them finding a home when they literally were about to be shipped to be killed. It’s kind of an incredible story. The conclusion (for the time being) of the Momma Baby Army story will appear in next week’s issue of The Polk County Pulse. Meanwhile, if you’re on Instagram, search for Dawn Olivieri or Moon_Mountain_Sanctuary to see photos, videos, and lots of updates on the horses, the work being done on the property and more. And if you’re shopping on Amazon for the holidays, you can always go the gift registry for the horses by visiting https://www.amazon.com/registries/ gl/guest-view/3BYZH895LSXZF/ .
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Christmas Cash Mob is back She’s back! Judy Thompson, former Cash Mob Coordinator, will be hosting the December Christmas Mob. The December Mob will be held at American Artisans, 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 9. Thompson notes that she is excited to do this special holiday Mob and is looking forward to seeing not only Mob’sters from the past, but new guests. She said this Mob will be full of games and prizes. Anyone who attends wearing some type of Christmas head attire will be able to register for a special door prize. This can be anything from Santa hats to elf ears; snowman hats to sprigs of holly. Bring on your creative side and make your head gear even more special. Another prize will be given for the most outstanding head attire. Everyone is invited to attend this Cash Mob, with or without a hat. Complimentary refreshments will be provided by American Artisans. The Downtown Cash Mob is a project of the Mena Downtown Partners (MDP) to promote the “Buy Local, Shop Small” effort while providing an opportunity for fun and socializing. For those not familiar with a cash mob, it is a community effort that is popular in many areas of the country and joins people together to support local businesses. It is an entertaining way to encourage shoppers into businesses where they not only normally shop but also to stores they may not have visited. The Downtown Mena Cash Mob provides an opportunity to shop at various downtown businesses. All participating merchants
and hosts are members of MDP. Locally, the invitation to attend is extended giving the name of the business which will host that month. The group then meets at the designated location for refreshments, fellowship, games and door prizes. Finally, the name of a participating MDP business is drawn. The group then converges on that business going in laughing and yelling “You’re being mobbed.” Thompson advises there are only two requirements for attending Cash Mobs: Each participant must spend $20 or more at the store that is being mobbed and they must have fun. The Cash Mob is open to anyone. Shoppers have included everyone from 10 to 90. This is a great way to meet new people and a fun way to hang out with your friends. Contribute to the local economy and have a great time with the “all-American” pastime of shopping. Grab your friends or come by yourself and do some Christmas shopping. Join in the Christmas fun and meet at American Artisans.
News 11
12 Faith By Richie Lawry
It was a cold, windy day in December 1903. Orville Wright stands on the beach in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, staring at the sky. His brother Wilbur is flying overhead in the machine they had built together. It was their fourth flight of the day in their hand-built flying machine. Wilbur Wright successfully flew their homemade machine for 59 seconds, covering 852 feet at 7 miles per hour. Orville had piloted the day’s first flight, which lasted just 12 seconds and traveled only 180 feet, but it proved human flight was possible. Orville wrote in his diary about the first attempted flight that morning. “I found the control of the front rudder quite difficult. As a result, the machine would rise suddenly to about ten feet and then as suddenly, on turning the rudder, dart for the ground. A sudden dart when out about 100 feet from the end of the tracks ended the flight. Time about 12 seconds.” The brothers realized a successful flight depended on their ability to learn how to handle the machine. Each attempt showed improvement. They were pleased enough with Wilbur’s 59-second flight but knew they could have done better. Unfortunately, there was not going to be another flight that day. Orville explains in his diary. “We set the machine down a few feet west of the building, and while standing about discussing the last flight, a sudden gust of wind struck the machine and started to turn it over. All rushed to stop it. Will, near one end, ran to the front, but too late to do any good. Mr. Daniels and myself seized spars at the rear, but to no purpose. The machine gradually turned over on us. Mr. Daniels, having had no experience in handling a machine of this kind, hung on to it from the inside, and as a result was knocked down and turned over and over with it as it went. His escape was miraculous, as he was in with the engine and chains. The engine legs were all broken off, the chain guides badly bent, a number of uprights, and nearly all the rear ends of the ribs were
December 6, 2023
An Arkie’s Faith
I’ll be Home for Christmas
The Wright Brothers making history, and putting family first. broken.” That day, Orville and Wilbur became the first to demonstrate a heavier-thanair machine’s sustained flight under the pilot’s complete control. What did the brothers do after their exciting success and the heartbreak of damaging their flying machine? They had an unhurried lunch and then walked 4 miles to send a telegram to their father. The telegraph read, “Success four flights Thursday morning all against twentyone-mile wind started from level with engine power alone. Average speed through air thirty-one miles. Longest 57 seconds. Inform press. Home for Christmas.” With their machine wrecked by the wind and flying done for the season, the Wrights immediately thought of going home for Christmas. They returned home with their broken machine on the evening of Dec. 23. According to their niece, Ivonette Miller, who was 7 in 1903, the children were excited that Wilbur and Orville would be home for Christmas. She recalled they said, “Oh, goody, Uncle Will will be home in time to carve the Christmas turkey!” Amanda Wright Lane, the great-grandniece of Wilbur and Orville,
said, “The Wright family was thrilled to learn about that first flight, but they were happier yet to know that meant the boys, great cooks, would be home in time for Wilbur to stuff the Christmas turkey and for Orville to make his cranberry bunny, served at holiday meals.” Orville and Wilbur Wright had just accomplished something no human had ever done. What they accomplished on that cold, windy December day would change humankind forever. But their thoughts were with their family and making it home for Christmas. The family is important to God because it is an institution He has created and one of His blessings. Families come in all shapes and sizes. Every family is unique, and every person within each family is essential. When God created the family, he gave us an extraordinary gift and a unique challenge. Family requires an unshakable commitment to each other, even when everyone involved is intimately aware of each other’s flaws. If you are committed to your family, they should always come first. Even if you are working on something significant, like the first powered, heavierthan-air flight, you should never forget your commitment to your family.
Joke of the Week:
I wasn’t using the colander correctly, so my wife took out a restraining order.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse One of my favorite Christmas songs is the Bing Crosby classic, “I’ll be Home for Christmas.” The song was written to honor soldiers overseas who longed to be home at Christmas time. The song is sung from the point of view of a soldier stationed overseas during World War II, writing a letter to his family. In the message, he tells his family he will be coming home and to prepare the holiday for him. The song touched the hearts of Americans, soldiers, and civilians, earning Bing Crosby his fifth gold record. “I’ll be home for Christmas. You can plan on me. Please have snow and mistletoe and presents on the tree. Christmas Eve will find me where the love light gleams. I’ll be home for Christmas, if only in my dreams.” As a Christian, you’re a part of two families: your earthly and heavenly families. 1 John 3:1 (GW) says, “Consider this: The Father has given us his love. He loves us so much that we are actually called God’s dear children. And that’s what we are.” And Romans 8:15-17 (ICB) says, “The Spirit that we have makes us children of God. And with that Spirit we say, ‘Father, dear Father.’ And the Spirit himself joins with our spirits to say that we are God’s children. If we are God’s children, then we will receive the blessings God has for us. We will receive these things from God together with Christ.” Gentle Reader, there’s no doubt God loves His children. He shows it by His words, His actions, and His promises. He longs for His children to be with him. Like we want our children and grandchildren to come home for Christmas, God wants us to come home and be with Him. Jesus says, “I will be there to greet you personally and welcome you home, where we will be together.” John 14:3 (VOICE) There’s nothing in this life that’s more important than for us to be a child of God and come home for Christmas. Let’s tell God, “I’ll be home for Christmas. You can plan on me.” Replacing windshields in Polk County for over 40 years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Mena’s Christmas Parade of Lights and the Mena Christmas Festival
os by Phot ahté nN Etha
Festivities 13
14 Homecoming
December 6, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Acorn High School 2023
Josey Dollar
Kimberly Cline
Freshman Maid
Freshman Maid
Ava Smith-Hawley Maid of Honor
Kaitlynn Ledbetter Sophomore Maid
Homecoming ceremony begins at 5 p.m., Dec. 8, Acorn Gym. The Acorn vs. Foreman game immediately follows.
Kylee Johnson Sophomore Maid
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Homecoming 15
Homecoming Court
Kohlea Carmack
Rebecca Moore
Junior Maid
Junior Maid
Daisy Dollar Queen
Jordyn Prewett Senior Maid
Sophie Strasner Senior Maid
16 Festivities
December 6, 2023 Parade of Lights winners: -
Best Horse - Grannis Trail Riders Best Motorized Non-Car – Myer’s Cruizzers Drive-In Best Car/Truck – Richie’s Auto Glass (Model A) Best Church Float – Christ Community Fellowship Best Small Business Float – Miss Polk County Pageant Best Large Business Float – Papa’s Mexican Café Best Theme Representation (Christmas Around the World) – Peachtree Mena Chamber of Commerce Favorite – Papa’s Mexican Café
Best in Show: - First place– Papa’s Mexican Café - Second place– Martin Marietta - Third place– PCDC
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Baby Supplies Drive off to a good start By Ethan Nahté
With rising prices affecting everything from groceries to clothing, times are tough for many people, including families expecting a baby or have recently had an infant. Katelyn Strother, a local mother of a three-year-old and a four-month-old, is doing something to help this holiday season with her Baby Supplies Drive. “I realized times are getting pretty hard and I want mommas to keep their children and not abort them,” Strother said. “I want to make things easier for them, including post-partum supplies, if they can’t get them. There are mommas who have no support, no baby showers and they need help. I want to support them in their choice to keep their children.” This is the first year of the project, which began Nov. 16 and will contin-
ue through Dec. 16, and she’s already making a difference. Strother said, “I’m accepting all things for baby supplies like diapers, baby wipes, pumps, nursing pads, bottles, things to baby-roof homes… anything to support moms and new babies. “Everything is local-to-local. I’m all over Facebook finding families who need supplies. The CALL of Polk County and Fresh Start Pregnancy Resource Center are some of the other places I’m helping.”
She posted on her Facebook page this past Sunday an image of her young assistants who helped organize supplies to aid 11 families. There are several more photos going back through the past few weeks of clothing, formula, diapers, bottles and more she’s already distributed to individuals, organizations and foster homes. “If the CALL can’t help them, they call me, and I get something together for them. I have several families I’m helping already,” Strother said. “Premie outfits are going to the hospital.” She’s accepting clothing 0-12 months in size. They have a donation bin at Mena Vape Co, or Strother is willing to meet donors or those in need personally in a public location. She can be contacted either through Facebook by searching for Katelyn Strother, or text her at 479-216-8059.
Community 17 Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System NOVEMBER 26, 2023 TO DECEMBER 2, 2023 Codie and Justin Davis of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Nov. 28th Alyssa & Jason Cude of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Nov. 28th Katheryn Ledesma & Adael Banegas of De Queen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Nov. 29th Ashley & William Barton of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Nov. 29th Esperanza Mancilla & Juan Rodriguez of De Queen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Nov. 29th
18 History
December 6, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Polk County’s Revolutionary War Connection: The reveal
By Kathy Hagler, Second Vice Regent, James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR
Over the past several months, you’ve read about the Battles of Saltketcher Bridge, Kings Mountain, Blackstock’s Defeat and a few more, and probably wondered what the American Revolutionary War has to do with Polk County, Arkansas. These battles have one man in common — Samuel Quinton, Polk County’s only known Revolutionary War veteran. As discussed in the article about the Battle of Arkansas Post, it was the only battle fought in what is now Arkansas. Polk County is at least 200 miles from Arkansas Post, on the opposite side of the state. That battle brought the war “closer to home,” but a verified Revolutionary War soldier who spent his last years here, completes the journey. Samuel Quinton was born in South Carolina about 1762. During the Revolutionary War he resided in Nine-
Quentin Mountain, elevation 1,693 feet, located near the Freedom Township, close to the Arkansas/Oklahoma border. (Ethan Nahté’Pulse) ty-Six District, South Carolina, where he was a private in the South Carolina militia. Records show he served 276 days of militia duty between 1780 and 1782. 180 of those days he served as a private horseman at 20 shillings per
day; 24 days in a tour to and at Cooper Church at 20 shillings per day; 48 days of service as a private in the foot service at Four Holes Swamp Bridge at 10 shillings per day; and 24 days in the foot service at Saltketcher (also known as Salkehatchie Bridge) at 10 shillings per day. He was also engaged with his company in the Battle of Kings Mountain in South Carolina on Oct. 7, 1780; and Blackstock’s Defeat on Nov. 20, 1780. He was on his way to the Battle of Guilford Court House in North Carolina, which took place on March 15, 1781, but he contracted smallpox and did not participate in that battle. In his Revolutionary War pension application, Samuel stated he returned to Union District in South Carolina after the war. He appeared there in the 1790 and 1800 censuses. His son, Samuel Jr., was born there. The family moved to Rutherford County, North Carolina, for two years, then to Cobb and Cass Counties in Georgia. In about 1837, they moved to Arkansas. Tax records show Samuel in Benton County in northwest Arkansas in 1837, 1838 and 1839. He then moved south and appeared in White Township near Cove in the 1840 census.
White Township was in Sevier County at the time but became a part of Polk County when it was formed in 1844. By the 1850 census, Samuel was living in Freedom Township in the Mountain Fork area of Polk County — at the foot of Quinton [aka Quentin] Mountain, which still bears his family’s name. Quinton began applying for his Revolutionary War pension in 1847. By this time, he was in his early 80s, poor and nearly blind. Friends and local elected officials helped facilitate approval of his application, one of them writing to South Carolina for needed documentation. Samuel received his pension and was paid the full amount he was due for 1849 through 1854 [Ed. $39.63 per annum, approximately $1,583 in 2023]. A partial payment in 1855 indicates he died in the early months of 1855 [Ed. Possibly Aug. 13, 1855 – Find A Grave]. Samuel’s son, Samuel Jr., moved across the country with his father. He married Lydia Crittendon, who was a Cherokee. Gene Norris, senior genealogist with the Cherokee National Research Center in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, said, “Samuel Quinton was of that faction of the Cherokee who are referred to as the Old Settlers. They removed themselves after the Treaties of 1817 and 1819, and after the Treaty of 1828 with Arkansas, their related families remained in Polk County, Arkansas, some until after the Civil War.” So, the Quintons were associated with a community of Cherokees that existed on the western border of Polk County from the 1840s until the 1860s. The 1860 census showed Samuel Jr. and Lydia farming in Freedom Township. By the 1880s, their extended family had moved to Oklahoma’s Going Snake District. Dale Epperson, a direct descendant of Samuel Quinton, will be the guest speaker at the James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR, meeting at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 21, at the Ninth Street Ministries Building, in Mena, Arkansas. The public is invited to attend.
December 6, 2023 Theater and Arts 19 Pulse OLT auditions being held for ‘Luv Among the Ruins’ auditions at ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ Grand Illusion Theatre THE POLK COUNTY
Submitted by Julie Ulmer
Ouachita Little Theatre announces the first play of 2024 to be “Arsenic and Old Lace” directed by Amanda Baker. This popular classic comedy written by Joseph Kesselring in 1939 is still performed on modern stages all over the country. The humor is timeless and the plot hilariously dark. This show has been on the OLT stage in the past and has been highly successful. Patrons have been asking for encore performances, and they are scheduled for Feb. 1618 and 23-25. Auditions for “Arsenic and Old Lace” will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 16, and from 6-7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 17 at the OLT. Director Amanda Baker says if you are interested and can’t make these dates, you can text her at 479-469-3741 to schedule an audition time before the evening of Dec. 17.
The director is looking for adults or older teens of any gender and varying ages. There are only three female roles, including two spinster sisters, which are major roles to be played by actresses who can play 5070 years old. There is another good role for a woman who can play age 25-40. There are several male roles that can be cast for characters who can play the parts ranging in age from 20-80 years old. The leading role of Mortimer Brewster involves a lot of physical action, as do a few other roles, but there are several characters that are less active. OLT auditions, as always, are open to anyone who has an interest in performing. This would be a great one to try out your acting chops. Check out oltmena.com and the OLT Facebook or Instagram pages for detailed character analysis and more information on Ouachita Little Theatre. As our motto says, “Come Play With Us!”
The cast of the OLT Lyric Players Readers Theatre Production “The Gift of the Magi” invite you to attend their performances at The Ouachitas, 7 p.m., Dec. 8 or 9 (limited seating, reserved $10 tickets at oltmena.com recommended), or at the Ouachita Little Theatre, 2:30 p.m., Dec. 10. The Sunday performance at OLT contains a bonus of an old-fashioned Christmas sing-a-long led by Judy Kropp. (Submitted photo)
Submitted by Tim Hesse Open auditions for the February performance of the play “Luv Among the Ruins” will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9 at Mena Mountain Resort in the Grand Illusion Theatre. The following parts will be cast: - Three actors (one male and two females) able to play characters 65-75. - One male actor to play 25-35. - Five actors (male or female) to
play characters ranging from 35-60. In addition to actors, anyone interested in working with lighting, sound, props, costuming or backstage are welcome to attend the auditions. Rehearsals will start Jan. 2 with a flexible schedule. The show will be performed in a dinner theatre setting on Feb. 9 and 10. Please call the resort at 479-3943110 with any questions.
Extended holiday hours at Mena Art Gallery Submitted by Lauren Pursell
Mena Art Gallery is pleased to announce additional open days leading up to Christmas! Fun and beauty await your viewing and shopping pleasure at the Christmas Show and Gift Sale! You won’t want to miss this wonderful array of handmade crafts and art by local artists. In addition to regular hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday–Saturday, the gallery will be open addi-
tional days and hours leading up to Christmas: Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, open late until 7 p.m. Sunday matinee and Thursday evening Ouachita Little Theatre goers please note, if you arrive early to the plays you will have time to take a turn around the gallery before the show.
20 Classifieds
December 6, 2023
- CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -
Wendell’s Tree Service - Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328. T1227 Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Heavy and light dozer work, heavy excavation, soft ground to rock excavation, heavy off-road hauling, road design and construction 50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction (479) 394-9227 T1227 Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for free estimate. T0103 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T1227 Handyman Service - Electrical and plumbing. Prefer small jobs. For more details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T1206 Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts. Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976. T0103 Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Roads, bridges, house pads, building pads, basements, land clearing, small lots to large tracks, ponds, stream crossings, farm roads, building demolition, site planning & prep. 50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction. (479) 394-9227 T1227
- PETS FOR SALE -
Christmas Puppies! AKC mini-dachshunds Call (479) 234-2882 for colors and picT1206 tures. For sale - AKC English Bulldog puppy, female, standard colors, and ready for her new home. Facebook Arklatex Bulldogs to see this beauty. Call (870) 642-3104 for more information. TFN
CLASSIFIEDS
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- FOR SALE -
Handmade quilts just in time for Christmas, brand new on the quilt rack. Baby quilt to king size, half price. Call (479) 234-1492. T1206 Large-capacity front load Whirlpool washer, perfect balance, $300, and top load Amana dryer $100. OBO, Must sell together. Good condition. (210) 544-0607 T1206 Nice gun cabinet, wood with glass door and lower cabinet, 74” tall, $150. (479) 243-0405 T1227
- BUSINESS -
Gifts! Unique, handmade with love by local artists - an entire store full. Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena St., extra opendays/hours: Tues 11–2. Wed–Sat 10-3,Sun 1-4, Thu 10-7. (479) 394-3880 T1206
- WANTED -
Need two ricks of seasoned oak firewood, 18” long. (479) 394-1901 T1206
- AUTOS FOR SALE 2004 Chevy Venture wheelchair accessible van, 140k miles, $7,000 as is or $10,000 with a brand new electric wheelchair. (479) T1213 216-8254
- HELP WANTED Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment T0424 F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0424 Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment. T0424
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
HSO maintained no-kill status in 2022
Humane Society of the Ouachitas (HSO) maintained “no-kill” status in 2022, according to Best Friends Animal Society (BFAS), a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters by 2025. HSO joined the BFAS network of shelters and its statistical data is expressed in BFAS’s annual data report. HSO was recognized as saving more than 90% of the dogs and cats that entered the shelter last year. HSO’s actual life-saving rate was 98.7% in 2022. According to Planning and Engagement volunteer Tina Ball, “HSO has maintained no-kill status for many years. To be recognized by a nationally renowned animal rescue organization like Best Friends Animal Society is a true honor and tribute to our work! “Highlights of steps taken for the shelter to achieve no-kill status are: participation in ASPCA’s Animal Relocation Initiative, increased adoption event opportunities at the Petsmart store in Hot Springs and Petco store in Fort Smith, a wonderfully caring shelter staff, and the support of our local community through pet adop-
tion, gifts and volunteerism.” BFAS recognized HSO’s achievement by presenting an honorary plaque to be displayed at the shelter. HSO’s shelter is located at 368 Polk 50, which houses dogs and cats awaiting adoption into loving homes. All animals are spayed or neutered and have their vaccines prior to adoption. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., HSO helps pets and people “meet their match.” For more information, call the shelter at 479-394-5682. See photos of adoptable pets and learn more about HSO at hsomena.org. For more information on BFAS, visit bestfriends.org.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Community 21
Around Town The Owens Chapel Cemetery Annual Meeting will be S2 p.m., Sunday Dec. 10 at the cemetery. The public is welcome to attend. GriefShare at First Presbyterian Church Mena meet every Wednesday at 1 p.m. for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Democrat Party will be having a Christmas potluck dinner at the Daisy Room (behind Janseen Avenue Florist & Gifts, 800 Janssen Ave., Mena), from 6:30-10 p.m., Dec. 11. Hope to see you there. Bring a friend. The Polk County Disabled American Veterans and Auxiliary will be holding their monthly meeting on Thursday, Dec. 7, at Veterans Park in Acorn. A potluck will begin at 6 p.m. and meetings will follow.
For more information, call 479-437-4018. Hatfield United Methodist Church will celebrate 125 years at 9:30 a.m., Dec. 10, located at 100 Polk County Rd. 35,. Food and fellowship follows. The Back Country Extension Homemakers Club meets the second Friday of each month at 1 p.m. at the UA Extension’s Education Building, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. We are a service organization affiliated with UA’s Division of Agriculture with a mission to have fun and learn new things while enriching our community and creating a more contented family life. We believe the greatest force that molds character comes from the home. Come join new friends and old as we together grow. For more info, contact Ginger at Gingerkm@protonmail.com.
GriefShare at The Crossing in Mena meets every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.
The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 394-1565 or polkarhousing.com.
The Polk County Social Seniors will be having a Christmas potluck dinner at the Daisy Room (behind Janssen Avenue Florist & Gifts, 800 Janssen Ave., Mena) on Dec. 12, at noon. Gifts will be collected for CASA. Bring a friend.
Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need.
Christ’s Church of Cove, 5234 Hwy. 71 S, Cove gathers every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m., for free coffee and conversation.
Narcotics Anonymous meet at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, noon - 1 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 p.m. on Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday, and 6 p.m. on Saturday at the old bus barn at The Crossing church. For information call Erica at (479) 2345289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300.
The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4pm - 6pm, located at Fair Grounds Road.
Jam session every Tuesday night, 6-9 p.m. at Shady Mountain Events, 428 Hwy. 375 East, Mena. No charge, everyone is welcome. All genres of music. Bring your own instrument, come watch or dance. Call (479) 234-7174 with questions. First Presbyterian Church will be presenting a series on the Book of Revelation in its Adult Sunday School class on Sunday mornings beginning at 9:45. Earl Harrell will be the presenter and will focus on the titles of Jesus as revealed in the Book of Revelation. The public is invited to attend. Classes will be in the Helen Barham Room at the church, 904 Church Avenue, Mena. The Ouachita Beekeepers Association is now meeting on the second Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. in the Education Building of the UA Extension Office, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. Come enjoy bee education, door prizes and socialization with other beekeepers. Call president Tommy Payne at (903) 521-4611 for details. The Hatfield Branch Library is open every Tuesday and Friday from noon-4 p.m. The library is located at 121 Cemetery Rd. (old Agri building) in Hatfield. The Cove Branch Library is open Monday and Thursday from noon-5 p.m. The Library is located next to Cove Town Hall at 5568 Hwy. 71 S. The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. The Center has an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459. The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has meals and activities for seniors.The hours are 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 3852373. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at The Crossing Church, 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn. For information call (479) 234-8366 or (479) 216-3786. American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows. Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m. Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast every Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Mena, 8 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, Ninth Street and Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call (479) 243-0297. It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews. com or call (479) 243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!
22 Police
November 27, 2023 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on W Barton near Cove in reference to a verbal domestic dispute. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 2 near Grannis in reference to a possible break-in. Coty Stiers, 33, of Gillham was arrested on Body Attachment. November 28, 2023 Kaylie Stroud, 27, of Mena was arrested on a Criminal Trespass warrant. Julia Cureton, 48, of Mena was arrested on a warrant for Harassment and Disorderly Conduct. Deputies were dispatched to a business near Hatfield in reference to damage to the building. Deputies responded to a report of a break-in at a residence on Polk 8 near Wickes. November 29, 2023 No reports. November 30, 2023 No reports. December 1, 2023 Deputies responded to a report of a child custody exchange issue from a walk-in complainant. Deputies responded to a report of prohibited articles being found during the processing of an inmate.
Pulse
December 6, 2023
The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG
THE POLK COUNTY
Deputies responded to a report of a violation of an order of protection. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. Andrew Corcoran, 26, of Mena was arrested to be held for another agency. Benjamin Farley, 24, of Mena was arrested on a Body Attachment. Stacie Shores, 33, was arrested on a Parole Revocation. December 2, 2023 Deputies responded to a report of livestock at large at a residence on Greenbrier Lane near Mena. Deputies were dispatched to a vehicle accident on Polk 44 near Mena leading to the arrest of Tamara Thomas, 27, of Mena on charges of DWI, three counts of 2nd Degree Child Endangerment, three counts of No Child Restraint, No DL, No Seatbelt, Careless and Prohibited Driving, No Insurance, and Expired Tags. December 3, 2023 An incident in the jail led to Tamara Thomas being issued a citation of 1st Degree Criminal Mischief. Deputies responded to a residence on Hwy 8 E near Nunley in reference to a trespasser. Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 125 near Mena in reference to a welfare check. Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 8 W near Mena in reference to an incident. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration. Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 3 vehicle accidents this week.
MENA POLICE REPORTS November 26 No reports. November 27 A report of criminal trespass was taken from Walmart. A report of theft was taken from Walmart. Zachary Hamner, 27, was charged with Violation of an Order of Protection at a residence on Oak Grove Avenue. November 28 Melissa Hartin, 48, was charged with Criminal Trespass at Walmart. A report of forgery was taken from a walk-in complainant. Cody Morris, 35, was served with a warrant at Walmart. A report of theft was taken from Walmart. December 1 Travis Winger, 34, was charged with Theft at Walmart. Joy Reed, 35, was charged with Theft at Walmart. December 2 Michael Reding, 61, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Polk 77. A death investigation report was taken at a residence on Mena Street. Dillon Basham, 32, was charged with Theft and served with a warrant at Walmart.
One dead following accident in Scott County By Patrick Massey A two-vehicle accident claimed the life of a Waldron man Nov. 30. Joshua Spaeth, 38, was traveling north on U.S. Hwy. 71 in his 2014 Chevrolet when he struck the rear of a semi-truck driving in front of his vehicle. The Arkansas State Police crash report states Spaeth’s vehicle did not maintain proper distance as he traveled behind the semi-truck. The accident occurred around 5:20 a.m. and no one else was injured. Spaeth was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the semi was uninjured. The investigating state trooper reported road conditions as clear and dry at the time of the accident.
RV fire claims two lives
Two people from Mena, Arkansas, died in a recreational vehicle fire early Wednesday, Nov. 29, in southwest suburban Grundy County. The fire began around 3 a.m. in an RV in the parking lot of the Love’s Travel Center off I-80 at 8909 N. Brisbin Rd. in Morris, Illinois, according to the Grundy County Coroner’s office. Morris is southwest of Chicago, and approximately 20 miles southwest of Joliet. When firefighters arrived, they found the vehicle fully engulfed. After extinguishing the flames, two people were found dead inside. The victims have been identified as William S. Davis, 52, and Chelsi A. Bates, 31. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Puzzles 23
December 6, 2023
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ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 11.29.23
A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Do you have room in your heart and home for a shelter pet?
Meet SCOUT!
Hi my name is Scout, I am a handsome guy, golden retriever/shepherd mix. I want to give you all my time and love. Ladies, if you want a loyal doggo for protection, I am your guy! My favorite food is CHEESE!! I am housetrained, and crate trained. I am good with other dogs, but do not like cats, because of my size and strength I need to be around older kids. I love going for walks on a leash, and I never met a toy or treat I didn't like. Come to the shelter today to meet me, or call 479-394-5682. All animals at HSO are current on their vaccinations and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption. If not already spayed/neutered, there may be a short delay between when you select this pet and when they are ready to go home.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
24 Education
December 6, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Cossatot River High Mena students do demonstration for school board Music Dept to present
Submitted by Mark Hobson
The Mena School Board held their regular November meeting on Monday, Nov. 13, in the Mena Middle School Library. The meeting began with the Superintendent’s report and Dr. Lee Smith immediately turned the meeting over to Mena Middle School Principal Todd Coogan. Coogan shared information on “Project Lead the Way.” The program was made possible through the efforts of Assistant Principal Teresa Warner, who wrote and was approved for a grant from the Arkansas STEM Coalition. PLTW provides hands-on learning opportunities using research supported approaches that allow students to discover and explore interest, imagine and design solutions to real world challenges and become independent, confident problem solvers. The board adjourned to the PLTW Lab where students were waiting to display and explain their projects to those in attendance. Smith then concluded his report by updating the board on the shortage of bus drivers in the district. He stated that no off-campus trips have been affected so far but that may become an issue should the problem persist. Next, the focus turned to the updating of the Aramark menus for our district’s schools. In October a parent, Meghan Thompson, voiced her concerns to the board, particularly highlighting the limited amount of protein and high amounts of sugar
in the school’s breakfast offerings. Susan Bodey, Aramark Food Service Director, and Amy Bartow, District Food Service Director, responded at last night’s meeting by outlining the federal guidelines that shape school menus. They emphasized that these guidelines are stringent about calorie content, which directly impacts the amount of protein that can be included in breakfast items. To address these concerns, Bodey and Bartow revealed new additions to the breakfast menus, primarily focusing on protein-rich items. They assured the board and attendees that, despite the challenges, they are committed to enhancing the breakfast menu within the existing framework. They also clarified that while the names of certain menu items might not seem indicative of healthier options, they are in fact aligned with USDA nutritional standards. For example, the pop tarts available in the school cafeterias are a healthier variant than those commonly found in grocery stores, being based on whole grains and containing less sugar. Currently, around 370 students at Louise Durham Elementary and over 300 at Holly Harshman Elementary benefit from the free breakfast program. The board was informed that returning to cafeteria-based breakfast services could potentially allow for more protein in the meals. However, this change would necessitate charging for the meals and could lead to a decrease in the number of students participating in the breakfast program.
This aspect of school nutrition continues to be a balancing act between adhering to federal guidelines and meeting the nutritional needs of students. District Maintenance Supervisor Danny Minton then addressed the board about project updates. Dirt work on the Hensley Activity Center is expected to be completed on Tuesday which will be followed by the installation of piers. All bulbs in the Union Bank Center have been replaced with LED bulbs. L&M Plumbing of Mena will be replacing a boiler at Mena Middle School. Bids were received for the construction of an awning at Louise Durham Elementary and the low bid was $49,649.15 by T&D Awning of Fort Smith. The board voted to accept that bid. The board then approved the most recent financial reports. In personnel the board accepted the resignation of Mena Middle School Special Ed Paraprofessionals Crystal Reed and Amanda Nash. They also voted to add pay for an added class period, five days per week, for Cheer Coach Rachel Dover the remainder of this semester. Before the board adjourned, discussion returned to the Aramark menus and a general consensus was that food services are doing well despite the federal restrictions on menus but that more time and effort is needed in order to arrive at better meal options. The board also addressed the need for advocacy at the state and federal levels to assist schools with this issue.
Christmas concert
The Cossatot River High School Music Dept will present their annual Christmas concert on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at Holbert Auditorium in Wickes, AR. The band concert will begin at 6 p.m. featuring the junior high and senior high bands under the direction of Jacob Talamantez. The junior high and senior high choir concert “Wonderful Christmastime” will follow at 7, featuring the combined junior high choirs performing first. Following will be the combined senior high choirs, plus the auditioned choir Encore under the direction of Susan Brewer. Featured ensembles for the evening will be the 2023 All-Region students. Come out and enjoy a night of festive holiday music performed by many talented CRHS musicians.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
UA Rich Mountain hosts author and photographer Steve Price
Submitted by Ilana Burk
The University of Arkansas Rich Mountain will host author and photographer Steve Price in the Lecture Hall on the UARM campus at 1100 College Dr., 10 a.m., Friday, Dec. 8. In addition to hearing Price discuss two of his books, “Riding with Cochise” and “America’s Wild Horses,” he will share some of
the memorable photography found in his published works. There will be a limited number of books available for purchase. Price has been a fulltime writer and photographer for five decades, specializing in outdoor recreation, travel, American history, and nature photography. He has written more than 3,500 magazine articles for dozens of publications, and 17 books ranging from freshwater fishing to African wildlife. His photography has won national and international awards and has been used in books and magazines throughout the country. He has traveled widely throughout the world and currently serves as a contributing editor for Field & Stream. In 2010, he was inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, and in 2017, he was inducted into the Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame. “Riding with Cochise” is his 17th book, in which he describes the decades-long war against American in-
cursion into the Apache homelands of New Mexico and Arizona. His two primary sources of information included the great-great grandson of Cochise, and the great-grandson of Geronimo. He will also include much of his 16th book, “America’s Wild Horses,” describing how the Spanish mustangs, brought into North America by the Spanish conquistadors, helped transform the Apache into the war-like tribe they became. One of his primary sources of information was the great-grandson of the famous mountain man and guide, Kit Carson. This event is offered free of charge, and everyone is invited to attend. For more information, call 479-394-7622, ext. 1370, email bminer@urichmountain.edu, or visit www.uarichmountain. edu/.
Education 25
Gov. Sanders visits Umpire schools
Following the Governor’s tour and roundtable at Umpire Schools on Monday, Dec. 4, Sanders’ spokeswoman Alexa Henning released the following readout: “Today, Governor Sanders toured Umpire Schools and held a roundtable with community members, teachers, parents, faculty and elected representatives. The Governor expressed how strong the sense of community and connection is at the school and commended the educators for contributing to the success of all their students. Both Governor Sanders and Secretary Oliva reEd. The Pulse will have an upcoming in- layed how important it was for the terview conducted with Price in Novem- state to hear all the perspectives and ber as a companion piece to the Dawn concerns directly from the commuOlivieri series and as a belated Native nity. The Governor offered the ArAmerican Heritage Month article. kansas Department of Education’s assistance to the local districts to Acorn FCCLA attends Region V Star Events Submitted by Mindy Lyle help them in compiling data and options for Umpire Schools. GovAcorn FCCLA had six teams comernor Sanders and Secretary Oliva pete at FCCLA Region V Star Events stressed that any options for the fuat U of A Hope on Nov. 15. The reture of the school should ultimately sults: prioritize what is in the best interest - Jordan Lyle and Matilda Grant, of the students.” Nutrition & Wellness, silver medal-advancing to State - Damon Cruz and Lyndsey Powell, Public Policy Advocate, silver medal-advancing to State - Eilam Holland and Jaylee Powell, Promote & Publicize FCCLA, bronze medal-advancing to State - Gracie Mabry and Irene Gilhousen, Repurpose & Redesign, sil- - Cy Young and Sam Strasner, Apr. 10, 2024. ver medal Sports Nutrition, bronze medal Kenzie Daniels, Kora Carter and - Taylar Kesterson and Madelynn Lauren Cruz attended as student Auer, Focus on Children, silver Three teams will advance to com- judges. medal pete at FCCLA State Star Events on
26 News
December 6, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Members of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, other cyclists, members of the general public, and the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce met up with the Marine Corps League and Mena Elks Lodge at Santa’s Outback Barn in Janssen Park on a chilly and foggy morning to make a deliver to Toys for Tots. The reindeer were on a break, so Hampton Aviation loaned the use of a box truck to load the toys and take them to Santa’s secret location to check against the Naughty or Nice list. (Photos by Ethan Nahté)
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 6, 2023
Bucks baseball players visit HHE By Logan McCourtney
Basketball
Players from the UARM Bucks baseball team visited with students assembled at Holly Harshman on Friday, Nov. 10. Sophomores Caden Brown, Luke Crumpler, and Trevor Flake spent their morning reading books to the students assembled, while also fielding questions from the enthusiastic students at HHE.
12/08 - Acorn vs. Foreman (Acorn Homecoming) 12/12 - Acorn vs. Dierks
Basketball
12/11 - Umpire vs. Legacy 12/08 - CRHS @ Jessieville 12/12 - CRHS @ Paris 12/04-12/09 -De Queen Sr. Tournament
Basketball
12/07 - Mena @ Mansfield 12/04-12/09 - De Queen Sr. Tournament 12/11 - Mena @ Ozark
Wrestling
12/07 - Mena vs. Van Buren 12/09 - Mena @ Lakeside - Girls 12/10 - Mena @ Lakeside - Boys 12/12 - Mena @ Russellville
Basketball
12/06 - Mt. Ida vs. Kirby 12/09 - Mt. Ida @ Taylor
Head coach for the Bucks, Junior Weaver, wanted the opportunity for some of his players to interact with local elementary students. “We wanted to give kids the opportunity to get to know our players and for our players to interact with local students. It’s positive in every way.” The Buck baseball players were wearing their uniforms, something the children at HHE loved. After reading, students spent a few minutes asking the players questions about baseball, their positions, and favorite players. UA Rich Mountain’s mission is to provide transformative education to all learners.
Sports 27
Parker tapped for Action in the Dale Submitted by Richard Hexamer Jasmine Parker, 14, of Mena has been chosen to compete in the Action in The Dale Pro/Am boxing event Dec. 16 in Springdale, Arkansas. Parker will be boxing for Defenders Boxing Club and Ouachita Combat and Fitness Academy in Mena. She currently has a 11-6 amateur record and is considered one of the Natural State’s top female boxers. Being chosen to compete on a Pro/ Am card is a big deal and Parker intends on making the best of this opportunity. Female boxing is growing in leaps and bounds. She is very excited to represent Arkansas, Mena, Polk County and our local gym.
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December 6, 2023
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
