June 17, 2020

June 17, 2020

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Mena Firefighters to Get New Protective Clothing The members of the Mena Fire Department will soon be getting new gear to protect them when fighting fires. The city had given the fire department a budget of $28,340 dollars to purchase 10 sets of firefighter turnouts and particulate firefighter hoods. At the regular June meeting of the Mena City Council, Mayor Seth Smith told the council he had been searching for grants to cover the cost of the new gear to outfit the fire department, but hadn't found any money yet. Smith said, “I'm still going to search for a grant to get some but, but we've got some personal protective equipment that needs to be replaced and get

it replaced before it goes out of date per NFPA standards.” Fire Chief Steve Egger presented two quotes for the equipment to the council. One was from Casco Industries, Inc., in Shreveport, LA for $25,766.

The other was from Municipal Emergency Services (MES) out of Houston, TX for $27,549.21. Chief Egger pointed out that Casco Industries did not include taxes and shipping costs, while MES did, making the bids relatively the same. However, the chief recommended the city accept the bid from MES. He said, “the MES quote, you are seeing all kinds of numbers on there because they have a package program, you

buy ten sets of gear, for a little more, they'll throw in Tech Gen gear. It's a lightweight firefighter gear that we could outfit our first responders in, engineers, pump operators.” According to Chief Egger, the additional lightweight gear would allow firefighters to battle outdoor fires, such as grass fires, safely without overheating as easily as they would in their full turnouts, “Going this route, we can make it safer for ten additional firefighters.” Egger said, “with MES we are getting more bang for our buck.”

The Mena City Council voted unanimously to accept the bid from MES.

Relay For Life of Polk County Holds Drive-Through Luminary Ceremony The Polk County Relay for Life event to benefit the American Cancer Society was held at Janssen Park in Menda on Friday night.

The event was much different than usual however, due to social distancing rules because of the Covid-19 Virus Pandemic.

This year's event included a “drive through luminaria ceremony” instead of the usual relay walk. The Relay for Life of Polk County was originally scheduled to take place on May 29th, but was suspended due to concerns about the health and safety of participants, volunteers, staff and the cancer patients and their loved ones who rely on the American Cancer Society.

Relay for Life is the signature fundraiser cancer walk for the American Cancer Society. Relay is staffed and coordinated by volunteers in more than 5,200 communities and 20 countries. According to the American Cancer Society, funds raised through Relay for Life not only honor survivors and remember loved ones, but also help give cancer patients and their families the resources they need, like free rides to chemo, free places to stay near hospitals, and a live 24/7 helpline for answers and support.

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June 17, 2020

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This week, the House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative and Military Affairs Committee reviewed the 2019 Annual Report from Arkansas State Police Crimes Representative John Maddox Against Children Division.

This report along with the quarterly reports from the Department of Human Services’ Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS) are difficult to review but necessary in guiding our decisions of where to place resources.

The annual report states Child Abuse Hot Line operators in the Crimes Against Children Division (CACD) of the Arkansas State Police received 67,420 referrals in the year 2019. Of these referrals, 37,591

Correction...

In last week’s edition of The Polk County Pulse, we misidentified rally at Janssen Park as a Black Lives Matter Protest. The evet was actually organized

by Polk County Activist for a Positive Change for Polk County People. We apologize for the error.

were accepted as legally valid allegations of abuse or neglect. They were assigned to the CACD investigators or the Arkansas Department of Human Services’ Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

In 2019, the hotline received 652 fewer calls than in 2018.

Calls to the hotline include educational and medical neglect, inadequate food and housing, and physical and sexual abuse.

DCFS reports neglect is the most commonly reported allegation among those which are found to be true.

Major Jeff Drew with the Arkansas State Police testified that calls to the hotline have dropped in recent weeks as many mandated reporters are not in contact with children. The division is noticing anywhere from 400 to 600 fewer calls a week.

DCFS Director Mischa Martin told committee members that teachers have historically been the highest volume of mandated reporters. The decline in calls to the hotline continues to be of concern.

DCFS made a decision early in the health emergency to continue to place a priority on the safety of children. As a result, employees with the agency have and will continue face to face contact with children.

We have posted the report presented to the committee at www.arkansashouse.org.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can call the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline at 800-482-5964.

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history

June 17, 2020

Reflections from History and Faith

3

Iwo Jima Remembered

By Jeff Olson Father’s Day has its own unique American origin and symbolically represents a foundational component of our culture. The inspiration for the first Father’s Day came from William Jackson Smart, an Arkansas veteran of the Civil War. Smart raised five children on his own after his wife died giving birth to their sixth child in 1898. His daughter, Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, wanted to honor her father for his devotion and got the idea of setting a special day to honor fathers from a sermon she heard on Mother’s Day in 1909.

Dodd drew up a petition recommending the adoption of a national father’s day to be celebrated during June, the month of her father’s birthday. Through Sonora Dodd’s efforts, the support of the Spokane Ministerial Association and the local Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Spokane celebrated the first Father’s Day on June 19, 1910. Over the years, many resolutions were introduced to make the day an official national celebration. In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge recommended the widespread observance of Father’s Day to “establish more intimate relations between fathers and their children and to impress upon fathers the full measure of their obligations.” In 1966 President Lyndon Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers, but it wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon signed the public law that made Father’s Day a national holiday.

The vital role of fathers has been extolled throughout history in virtually every religion and culture. It was abundantly clear to America’s Founding Fathers that families with both mothers and fathers were critical to the well-being of children and the nation.

In John Adams words, “The foundation of national morality must be laid in private families.... How is it possible that Children can have any just Sense of the sacred Obligations of Morality or Religion if, from their earliest Infancy, they learn their Mothers live in habitual Infidelity to their fathers, and their fathers in as constant Infidelity to their Mothers?” His wife Abigail wrote, “What is it that affectionate parents require of their Children; for all their care, anxiety, and toil on their accounts? Only that they would be wise and virtuous, Benevolent and kind.”

James Wilson stated, “It is the duty of par-

ents to maintain their children decently, and according to their circumstances; to protect them according to the dictates of prudence; and to educate them according to the suggestions of a judicious and zealous regard for their usefulness, their respectability and happiness.”

According to the late Dr. Edwin Cole, “the lack of effective, functioning fathers is the root cause of America’s social, economic and spiritual crises.” Writer and editor Mark Alexander states “The failure of fatherhood is more than just a social problem; it is a menacing national security threat. The collective social pathology of the fatherless has dire consequences for the future of Liberty, free enterprise and the survival of our republican form of government as outlined by our Constitution.”

Most importantly, we are commanded

by God through the Holy Scripture to honor our fathers and mothers (Exodus 20:12, Ephesians 6:2), and not just two days out of each year. This we do not only through love and respect but also in continuing the moral and virtuous qualities of their legacies through the lives we lead. Fatherhood, like motherhood, best serves God’s design and purpose and finds its most complete and enduring expression within the marriage covenant. I would like to close by sharing some truths of what it means to be a Christian father, truths which I have endeavored to live out over the years.

By God’s design, children get their first impression of who God is and what he is like through their father. Christian Fathers are followers of Christ, and walk in his footsteps. A Christian Father loves his children, which finds its first and most lasting expression in his love for their mother. He provides for their needs. He sustains them through the trials of growing up. He protects them from the dangers of life, but not the lessons of life. He instructs them in the ways of righteousness. He corrects them when their steps go astray. A Christian Father is a role model, protector and counselor to his children. He is a godly husband to their mother. He is the spiritual leader to his family. The Bible says to Fathers: “Love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for it.” (Ephesians 5:25) “Provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)

County Clerk Gives Update On Election Preparation, Voter Safety Polk County Clerk Terri Harrison relaeased the following information today concerning the upcoming General Election.

Election time is just around the corner and will be here before we know it. County Clerks and Election Commissioners across the State, as well as State Officials, are working diligently to make sure that the General Election goes smoothly and that we are taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of voters and election workers.

With the exception of a few changes to meet safety and sanitation guidelines, we anticipate that elections will carry on pretty much as usual in Polk County. Early voting will begin on October 19th and vote centers will be open on Election Day. We will be taking extra measures to keep everything sanitized.

Voters and election workers will be asked to honor the 6-foot social distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid19. Hand sanitizer, face masks, and other protective equipment will also be available at each vote center.

Absentee voting will still be available for those voters that are unavoidably absent, or their health prevents them from being able to vote in person. Anyone needing to vote absentee should contact the County Clerk’s Office as soon as possible so that we can send you the absentee application.

The Primary Election on March 3rd went very smooth in Polk County and we believe the General Election will be just as successful.

As a voter there are a few things you can do to help out. If you have recently moved or had a name change, please contact the County Clerk’s Office as soon as possible to update your information on voter registration records.

If you wait until Election Day, that information has to be updated while you are checking in at the vote center to vote and can cause delays for you and other voters.

If you are not registered to vote but think you may want to vote in the General Election, now is the time to get registered.

COUNTY CLERK UPDATE CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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police

June 17, 2020

The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

POLK COUNTY ARRAIGNMENTS All criminal information is merely an accusation and the Defendant is Presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Prosecuting Attorney Andy Riner, with and for the 18th-West Judicial District of the State of Arkansas, of which Polk County is a part, in the name and by the authority of the State of Arkansas, on oath, do hereby accuse the defendants of committing in Polk County, Arkansas the following crimes: State of Arkansas Vs. James D. Cochran, White Male, age 36, County I: Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance, a Class “D” Felony. Count II: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Class “D” Felony. Count III: Possession of a Controlled Substance, a Class “A” Misdemeanor. The State of Arkansas intends to pursue enhanced penalties since he has been convicted of more than one (1) felony bu fewer than four (4) felonies.

State of Arkansas Vs. Joshua Heifner, White Male, age 18, Count I: Fleeing, a Class “D” Felony. Count II: Aggravated Assult, a Class “D” Felony.

State of Arkansas Vs. Matthew E. Cannon, White Male, age 39, Count I: Arson, a Class “B” Felony. Count II: Aggravated Assault, a Class “D” Felony.

State of Arkansas Vs. Kyle Williams, White Male, age 25, Count I: Theft by Receiving, a Class “D” Felony.

State of Arkansas Vs. Rachel Tarkinton, White Female, age 22, Count I: Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance, a Class “D” Felony. Count II: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Class “D” Felony. Count III: Possession of a Controlled Substance, a Class “A” Misdemeanor.

State of Arkansas Vs. Matthew Cannon, White Male, age 39, Count I: Failure to Appear, a Class “C” Felony.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT June 8, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 733 near Potter of the theft of diesel fuel in the amont of $300.00. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 130 near Rocky of a runaway juvenile. Juvenile was located and returned to the custody of the parent/guardian.

Arrested was James D. Cochran, 36, of Cove on a Warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Arrested was Aaron M. Shores, 27, of Hatfield on two charges of Failure to Comply, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Theft

by Receiving, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License.

June 9, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 412 near Potter of harassment. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 24 near Cove of the theft of an ATV and tools valued at $14,600.00. Investigation continues.

Report of an incident between four juvenile males. Deputy responded. Complainant refused to press charges.

Arrested was Kyle D. Williams, 25, of Mena on a Charge of Theft by Receiving and a hold for another agency.

Arrested was Rachel R. Tarkinton-Wolf, 22, of Mena on a Warrant for Failure to Comply and a Warrant for Possession of Schedule I or II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

June 10, 2020 Report of a possible ATV accident on Hwy 375 near Shady. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Settlers Lane near Potter of the theft of a refrigerator valued at $600.00. Deputy responded.

June 11, 2020 Report from complainant on West Johnson near Hatfield of a dog bite. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 17 near Cove of inappropriate videos and pictures on a cell phone. Deputy responded.

June 12, 2020 Traffic stop on Polk 31 led to the arrest of Brandon W. Gates, 35, of Mena on a Charge of DWI, Driving on a DWI Suspended License, and Driving Left of Center.

Arrested was Philip M. Cunningham, 48, of Mena on a Charge of DWI and Driving

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on a DWI Suspended Driver’s License.

June 13, 2020 Request for a welfare check at a residence near Mena.

Report from complainant on Treasure Lane near Acorn of a property line dispute.

Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 93 near Rocky of issues concerning a mailbox. Deputy responded.

Traffic stop led to the arrest of Lonnie R. Fairless, 48, of Cove on Charges of DWI, Driving on a DWI Suspended License, and Driving Left of Center.

June 14, 2020 Report from complainant on Polk 35 near Hatfield of items stolen from a rental property. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration.

Report from complainant on Hwy 71S near Hatfield of a verbal altercation. Deputy responded.

Arrested was Michael A. Wilkinson, 33, of Hatfield on a Charge of DWI. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated Inmates , with 7 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORT Mena Police Department Reports for the Week of June 7, 2020 through June 13, 2020 follow: June 7, 2020 Randal Hansard, 52, was charged with DWI after a traffic stop.

A theft (shoplifting) report was taken from a department store.

A theft report was taken at a residence.

A theft (shoplifting) report was taken from a department store.

June 8, 2020 A theft (shoplifting) report was taken from a department store.

A report of a disturbance was taken at a residence.

A criminal mischief report was taken at a residence.

A theft (shoplifting) report was taken from a department store.

A theft (shoplifting) report was taken from a department store.

June 9, 2020 Gloria Duff, 44, was arrested for Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a call to a department store.

Matthew Cannon, 39, was served with two warrants.

June 10, 2020 A theft report was taken at a motel room.

A dog bite report was taken at a medical clinic.

June 11, 2020 A criminal mischief report was taken at a park.

June 12, 2020 A dog bite report was taken at a residence.

June 13, 2020 Dalton Pearls, 30, was charged with DWI after a traffic stop.

Four Juveniles were charged with Curfew Violation after a traffic stop.

Jerry Allen, 26, was charged with Criminal Trespass, Obstructing Government Operations, Refuse to Submit to Arrest, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a disturbance call to a residence.

Keith Nicholson, 44, was charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a call to a department store.

(All subjects should be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law)

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news

June 17, 2020

5

Q&A Protecting America’s National Treasures with Youth Counselor Jason Waller Q: Why did you get into counseling and working with children and teens in particular?

A: I started out working with adults...

And, you would see the outcome of a childhood issue that never got resolved, or a prevention that never happened. I wanted to get away from the back end, 40 years of people trying to cope with the issue through alcoholism, drug addiction, and get to the youth who can live a more productive life if they can get those issues resolved early on.

Q: What kind of services are available to youth and children in this area?

A: There are 17 different child advocacy centers throughout the state including the Cooper Anthony Mercy Children's Advocacy in Mena. We provide forensic medical exams, forensic interviewing, follow up advocacy and mental health services all under one roof. It is unique and challenging, but we are very effective in what we do in treating our clients. If young people (that have been affected by trauma) don't get these issues addressed and if they don't get the help that they desperately need, they are going to find a way to cope. And,

usually, that's not in a good way.

Q: My understanding is, that these services are available free to those who need it. Is that correct?

A: Yes. All of the services are free. It is for our clients who have gone through the referral process and who essentially, have been referred to us. But yes, all of our counseling, advocacy... all of that is free.

Q: For those who feel like this is something for them, a loved one, or someone they know, what do they need to do?

A: The best thing to do is call the Arkansas Maltreatment Hotline, 1-844-728-3244, or 1-844-SAVE A CHILD. That's the best place to start. They will do an initial interview and go through the referral process.

That will eventually lead them to a child advocacy center where they will be able to get the help they need.

Jason Waller is a counselor with Cooper Anthony Mercy Children's Advocacy Center. He specializes in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy for children and teens.

Before the executions in 2017, the previous execution occurred in 2005. There was an even longer gap between executions, from 1964 to 1990, because of rulings by the United States Supreme Court. During that gap, the legislature approved Act 774 of 1983, making lethal injection the method for execution.

In 1990, Arkansas became the 14th state to execute an inmate since the 1976 Supreme Court ruling that once again allowed states to carry out capital punishment. The high court had ruled in 1972 that the death penalty was cruel and unusual and therefore prohibited under the Eighth Amendment.

The Arkansas inmates who unsuccessfully challenged Arkansas lethal injection protocol cited the Eighth Amendment.

One of the inmates executed in Arkansas in 1990 originally had been sentenced WEEK IN REVIEW ONTINUED ON PAGE 15

the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge in Ashley and Union Counties by more than 9,000 acres.

National Wildlife Refuges help preserve wildlife habitats and support the recreation activities of duck hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Felsenthal is one of 568 National Wildlife Refuges in the country. Millions of acres of public lands— including these wetlands, our treasured national parks and rivers—are a source of American pride.

We can be proud of the conservation efforts and the foresight that led to establishing and preserving these iconic American public lands. The Senate is taking another step to protect these national treasures for future generations by bringing The Great American Outdoors Act up for debate on the floor.

I look forward to approving this historic legislation that would create the National Park and Public Lands Legacy Restoration PROTECTING AMERICA’S CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

N O T I C E

MENA REAL ESTATE

State Capitol Week in Review...

From Senator Larry Teague LITTLE ROCK – A federal judge upheld the constitutionality of lethal injection procedures used in Arkansas for carrying out the death penalty.

A group of inmates on death row had challenged the protocol used for capital punishment, arguing that it violated constitutional prohibitions against cruel and unusual punishment.

A federal judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas denied the inmates’ claims and wrote that evidence presented during a trial last year did not prove the drugs used for lethal injection created a substantial risk of severe pain.

Arkansas has 30 inmates on death row. All are men, 15 are white, 14 are African-American and one is Hispanic. The last time the state carried out capital punishment was in April of 2017, when four inmates were executed by injections of three drugs.

From U.S. Senator John Bozeman Public lands in Arkansas provide an abundance of opportunities for people to enjoy the great outdoors. The time-honored traditions of hunting and fishing have helped grow the state’s tourism industry into a key sector of our economy while simultaneously supporting the preservation and protection of wildlife habitat. We call the Natural State home. This moniker gives Arkansans an especially strong connection to nature and a vested interest in maintaining our outdoor resources.

For decades, hunters have been attracted to duck hunting in Arkansas because its wetlands are ideal habitats for migrating waterfowl. Federal conservation programs continue to ensure this popular pastime thrives.

As a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, I’m honored to be a voice for Arkansas wetlands and champion investments that protect the wildlife habitat in Arkansas. The commission recently approved expanding waterfowl habitat at

Farrell & Sharon Cole The Cole Team

816 S. Mena St. Mena, AR 71953 Office: (479) 394-5000 www.FarrellCole.com www.MenaRealEstate.com

479-394-7301

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Call: LaDon Copelin CLU, ChFC, CFP® 3015 Hwy. 71 S, Mena • 479-394-5570 AR License #15429 - OK License #40117342

6

obituaries

Leshia Dawn Roberts

Ms. Leshia Dawn Roberts, age 56, of Mena passed away, Tuesday, June 9, 2020 in Hot Springs, AR. She was born on July 1, 1963 to the late Monty Gene Medlin and Patricia Pirtle Medlin.

She was a home builder and a nurse and had an enterprising sprit, running a retail business with her partner, Lee Evans.

She was fond of games and loved to play skipbo and solitaire, in particular. But her first love was her family, her boys and her grandchildren. She was a loving mother, step-mother, grandmother, step-grandmother, daughter, sister and friend to all who knew her.

She is survived by: Life Partner: Lee Evans, Mother: Patricia Medlin, Sons: William Roberts, Jr. and wife Missy, Christopher Roberts and wife Leah, and Nicholas Roberts and husband Garnet, Brother: Shane Medlin and wife Jessica, Sisters: Raquel “Tootsie” Medlin, and Misty Vidal and husband Dustin, Grandchildren: Kobe, Ethan, Jordan, Wesley and Jaden Roberts, Step-Daughters: Tamra Dugan and husband Joey, Tonya Chambers and husband Richie Tandy Smith and husband Adam and Taleah Tate and husband Joseph, Step-Grandchildren: Kimberly, Madison, and Megan Dugan, Lil Rich, Brayden and Bryson Chambers, Kylea Skaggs and Autumn Smith, and Marcus Tate, Step-Mother: Carmie Lance, and Best Friend: Bea Watkins.

She was preceded in death by her father, Monty Medlin, and her grandparents, A.V. and Dorothy Pirtle and Gene and Phoebe Medlin.

Caring for your family since 1928

June 17, 2020 Graveside services will be Saturday, June 13, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Six Mile Cemetery at Hatfield with Brother Ron Tilley and Victor Rowell officiating. Visitation will be Friday evening June 12th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The Beasley Wood staff still strongly suggest that social distancing is in place, and other recommendations set forth by the governor of Arkansas still be observed.

Pallbearers will be Jordan Roberts, Taylor Medlin, Payton Medlin, Adam Smith, Calvin Smith and Jerry French. Honorary pallbearers will be Darrell Brownlee, Garnet Blanchette, and Dwayne Watkins.

Online obituary at www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

David Allen Smith David Allen Smith, age 58, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2020 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born to Allen and LaVerne Smith on March 3, 1962 in Mena, Arkansas. David was an HVAC technician who loved to fish. He enjoyed watching sports, especially football. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by: Wife: Mary Smith of Mena, AR, Daughter: Amber Smith of Massachusetts, Granddaughter: Hailee Heard of Mena, AR, Mother: LaVerne Smith of Mena, AR, Brother: Shawn Smith and wife Brandi of Mena, AR, Nieces: Sarah Porch of Amarillo, TX, Jessica Clark of Amarillo, TX, Rachel Pierson of Amarillo, TX, Brittany Smith of Mena, AR, and Brenna Smith of Mena, AR, and numerous aunts, uncles, and extended stepfamily.

He is preceded in death by his father, Allen Smith; daughter, Emily Smith; and sister, Tammy Pierson.

Mr. Smith was sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

Online obituary @ www.beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Rev. Doyle Crane

Locally owned & operated 479-394-1310

611 Janssen Avenue - Mena, AR

BeasleyWoodFuneralHome.com

Rev. Doyle Crane, age 91, passed on Sunday, June 14th, 2020. He was born July 19th,

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1928 in Hatfield, AR to George and Myrtle Crane. He is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Nellie Tripp Crane, daughter Alice Rajani, brothers George Crane, John Crane, Gene Crane, sister Delores Oglesby, and parents George and Myrtle Crane.

He is survived: Wife Joyce Smith Crane; Sons David Crane and wife Sylvia of Denton, TX, Jeff Crane and wife Marna of Denton, TX, and Tony Crane and wife Christi of Lake Charles, LA; daughters Susan Crane of Lubbuck, TX, and Linda Crane Mosley of Mena, AR; 16 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, June 20th, 2020 at 9:00 AM at

Bethel Temple Assembly of God in Harmony Grove, AR with Rev. Howard Thompson presiding. Graveside services will be at 3:30 PM at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield, AR. Pall bearers include Mike Oglesby, Steve Oglesby, Randy Oglesby, Ron Crane, Robert Crane, Michael Crane, and Sam Crane.

Doyle Crane had been an Assemblies of God minister for 67 years and pastored churches in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Indiana, and North Carolina. His love for God and people were well known to all he ministered to.

Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address The Task Force to Advance the State of Law Enforcement in Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas’s Commission on Law-Enforcement Standards and Training is constantly examining ways to improve the already high quality of law enforcement in our state, and today I’d like to talk about the task force I’ve created to further that good work.

I have a long history with law-enforcement, as a federal prosecutor, as administrator of the DEA, and as undersecretary at Homeland Security. I have profound respect for law officers at all levels. I have seen the danger they face. I want to do everything I can as governor to make their job as safe as possible by equipping and supporting them in their important mission to protect and serve Arkansans.

A critical element in law enforcement is trust between police officers and the communities they serve. The death of George Floyd and other recent events have undermined that trust across our communities.

The commission sets high standards for professionalism, which is the way to establish and maintain trust. The commission certifies and decertifies law-enforcement officers and certifies all levels of training. It promulgates and enforces statewide rules and regulations. The standard for selecting police officers in Arkansas is higher, and the accountability is stricter than ever before.

The role of the task force is to listen to concerns from representatives from law-enforcement and the community, and to recommend ways the commission can improve training, community policing, and

accountability.

I want to be clear that the task force won’t discuss defunding police agencies.

Discussions about where and how we spend money are always appropriate. But we will not do anything that will diminish the vital role of police agencies or put officers in even greater peril than the risks that are inherent with their work.

The chairman of the task force is Fred Weatherspoon, who serves as deputy director of the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy. I appointed Fred because his background makes him a perfect person to lead this committee of law-enforcement professionals, elected officials, community leaders, and citizen activists.

After Fred earned a degree in education at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, a friend who was a member of the Magnolia police department asked Fred to join. Fred resisted that idea because of a bad experience his father had with police officers when Fred was ten. But his friend persuaded Fred that if he became a police officer, he could improve the profession through his leadership and example.

That was nearly twenty years ago. Fred spent nine years in Magnolia, and he has worked at the Commission for ten years.

I am grateful for the professionalism and compassion that is common to our police agencies statewide. We want to make sure that our 10,000 police officers and our 500 law-enforcement agencies have everything they need to protect Arkansans with as little personal risk as possible.

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Elizabeth Baker named SAU COSE Outstanding Undergraduate MAGNOLIA, AR (06/15/2020)-- Elizabeth Baker is the Southern Arkansas University College of Science and Engineering's Outstanding Student for the 2019-2020 academic year.

Elizabeth is from Mena, AR and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and minor in Criminal Justice and Psychology in May 2020. She is an exceptional student within the Nursing department and SAU community. She is active in the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and

is a Supplemental Instruction tutor, committed to helping her peers.

Elizabeth has also served in Sigma Professional Agricultural Sorority and as a College Panhellenic Council and Appeals representative. She received the SAU Presidential Scholarship and has a FEMA Introduction to Incident Command System certification. Her future plans include becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist or a Nurse Educator. Currently, Elizabeth plans to work in the Neonatal Intensive Unit or the Emergency Department in San Antonio, Texas.

FIND YOUR LOCAL NEWS IN PRINT, RADIO & ONLINE Austin Johnston a senior at Mena High School won the 2020 Terry (Pops) Hudgens Memorial Scholarship. He will be attending Arkansas Tech this fall where he will pursue his fishing career. Submitted Photo

BACK TO SCHOOL PHYSICALS AND IMMUNIZATIONS FOR ALL AGES CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT OR WALK-INS WELCOME

Well and Sick Waiting Room Areas Provided For Your Safety 1103 College Drive Mena Medical Associates

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Walk-In Care Center

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30-5:30 Saturday-Sunday 9:00-4:00

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June 17, 2020

Shannon Miller, Winner of the ‘Let Us Make Your Day’ Give Away!

Shannon won prizes from Allbaugh’s Florist & The Coffee Vault.

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Acorn School 2nd Semester Honor Roll All A’s

7th Grade Rebecca Bloodworth Christian Christiana Damon Cruz Rebecca Moore Colten Quebedeaux Jordan Wagner 8th Grade Nicholi Carrillo Kenzie Daniels Daisy Dollar Kensey Rosson Sophie Strasner 9th Grade Brookelyn Goss Charish Hill Michael Laing Reed McGee Addyson Prewett Lori Richardson

Rachael Weddle Jayden Willborg 10th Grade Jacob Lyle Abigail Nance Justice Neufeld Raeghan Weddle 11th Grade Corryn Holland Jayden Quebedeaux Harlee Rodgers 12th Grade Makenna Goss Kacey Head Matthew Nance Ha Nguyen Minh Nguyen An Pham Maria Testoni Nghi Tran

7th Grade Kohlea Carmack Karli Davis Chanity Hall McKenna Pippen Melanie Pitman 8th Grade Noah Holland Nicholas McCourtney Ava Smith-Hawley Annabella Tedder Sarah Tedder 9th Grade Luis Basilio Johnathan Bodkin Braylan Bohlman Tristan Johnson Raylin Lane Rachael Miller Braven Rodgers Dakota Sullivan Casey Van Meter Emily Whorton 10th Grade Damian Bohlman

Cierra Burdess Cole Hair Kiersten Larucci Jala Nedden Antonio Reyes Caleb Reynolds Joshua Tilley Lauryn Treat Riley Weddle 11th Grade Keelan Allen Madison Blair Emmy Goss Halli Holland Autumn Strother Sandy Strother Sarah Wallace 12th Grade Sophie Jackson Brady Lyle Mercedes Mowdy Brickie Sachs Haley Sandoval Jeremiah Swint

Acorn School 2nd Semester Honor Roll All A’s & B’s

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June 17, 2020

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Mena Middle School All A’s Honor List Spring Semester 6th Grade Carmindy Ashcraft Matthew Collins Jayden Cox Kili Cox Kylene Denton Brandon Dong Elliott Dugan Andrew Erickson Ava Fields Kallye Gates Waylon Head Philip Hensley Chloe Hooper Allison Howard Matthias Jobe Sydney Jones David McMellon Talia McMellon Valentime Reppo Maxwell Rocha Chloe Stepp Heather Street Eli Swall Kaylee Thomas Jackson Thompson Beck Vacca Makenzie Vega Katherine Wilson Pascha Wistrand 7th Grade Rylie Bentley Rhett Brotherton Marlenne Cecilio Alexis Clegg Abigail Comeaux Emily Dodson Lainee Garrett Raegan Gates Laney Gilchrist Scottie Gragg

Thallen Hair Kinley Hall Patrick Hastey Dorian Knight Abigail Koppein Autumn Lockhart Reese Montgomery Gracie Nash Bon Scott Karley Sharp Andrew Smith Yennyte Eloise Tecson Addison Thomas Isabel Vacca Elizabeth Willis 8th Grade Elaina Aleshire Israel Barnes Amelia Betz Jocelyn Biard Brinley Blake Sophia Brewer Payton Clark Mallory Farringer Jaeli Fields Amy Gragg Annalise Hughes Kiylee Hughes Holiday Neufeld Kaelyn Nichols Rebekah Ogden Breanna Parker Brenden Ricker Casady Rode Elaurel Spencer Shantal Tecson Hudson Vacca Sophia Vacca Heidi Wells Gena Whitehead Psalm Wistrand

Wherever you are,

First Financial Bank is there for you.

As part of the Small Business Association’s recent Paycheck Protection Program, First Financial Bank was able to secure funding for over 600 businesses across the US. This provided financial relief to over 6,700 employees and their families.

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June 17, 2020

t r o p p u S e c i o h C Local l o h o c l for A ty n u o C k l o in P

INCREASE TAX REVENUE, TOURISM AND THE ECONOMY SIGN THE BALLOT PETITION HERE’S WHERE AND WHEN TO SIGN: American Artisans 615 Mena St. Wed. - Sat. 10am - 5pm

Ouachita Roasters 821 Mena St. Wed. - Fri. 9am - 12pm

The Market 1509 US 71 S Sat. 11am - 4pm

Scooy’s Mena Country Club Janssen Park Place B&B Convenience & Deli 123 Country Club Lane Tues. - Sun. 9am - 9pm

511 9th St. Mon. Wed. Fri. 5pm - 7pm

5602 Hwy 71 S, Cove Tue. Thur. Sat. 10am - 12pm, 3pm - 5pm

FOR YOUR SAFETY, OUR PETITION VOLUNTEERS WILL BE OBSERVING STATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES ON COVID-19.

FIND US ON

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PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE FOR GROWTH IN POLK COUNTY

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Students at Southern Arkansas University Earned Degrees Spring Graduating Class of 2020 MAGNOLIA, AR - Cheyenne Nicole Arthur from Cove, AR, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. Arthur majored in Forensic Science from the College of Science and Engineering.

Kara Anne Richardson from Grannis, AR, graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science degree. Richardson majored in Exercise Science from the College of Education.

Hope Cannon from Mena, AR, graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Cannon majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Brooke Marie Howell from Wickes, AR, graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Howell majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Jasmine Johnson from Mena, AR, graduated Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Johnson majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Brianna Lavey Peters from Cove, AR, graduated Magna Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Peters majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Karlie LeAnn Rodriguez from Wickes, AR, graduated Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Rodriguez majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Jacquelyn Speight from Grannis, AR, graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Speight majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Lorena Tena from Grannis, AR, graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Tena majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Liliana Trinidad from Wickes, AR, graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Trinidad majored in K-6 Elementary Education from the College of Education.

Elizabeth Baker from Mena, AR, graduated Magna Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Baker majored in Nursing from the College of Science and Engineering.

Kathryn Bovard Smith from Vandervoort, AR, graduated with a Master of Education degree. Smith majored in Secondary Education: Curriculum and Institution from the College of Education.

A total of 506 SAU students who received a degree for this Spring 2020 semester.162 candidates from the School of Graduate Studies and 344 undergraduate candidates were recognized from SAU's four academic colleges. Due to COVID-19, the May commencement ceremony was canceled, but graduates have the opportunity to walk in August's graduation.

Drive Through Community Veteran’s Recognition Event to be Held A Community Veteran's Recognition, drive-thru lunch and pinning ceremony will be held later this month. According to organizors, the event will take place on Monday June 29, from 11 am-1 pm. It will be held in the Elite Hospice parking lot, located at

602 DeQueen Street in Mena.

A Free bag lunch will be availble for veterans and their spouses. All veterans will also receive a pin. Vietnam Veterans will also receive a keychain.

Please RSVP to 479-394-1134.

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June 17, 2020

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NATIONAL FL AG WEEK

JUNE 14-20, 2020

JOIN LOCAL BUSINESSES IN COMMEMORATING THE ADOPTION OF OUR AMERICAN FLAG ON JUNE 14TH, 1777

Bernard Cigrand, a teacher from a small Wisconsin town, originated the idea for an annual flag day in 1885.

It was to be celebrated across the country every June 14th.

That first year, he led his school in the first formal observance of the holiday.

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Observing National Flag Week JAMES TURNER (479) 234-6244 ERIC TURNER (479) 243-5549

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June 17, 2020

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Mena Regional Health System Observes National Time Out Day

got medicare???

Nurse Managers at Mena Regional Health System recently served ice cream floats to employees in honor of National Time Out Day, a campaign to raise awareness about the value of taking a Time Out before any surgical procedure. These protocols, established at Mena Regional Health System, protect staff and patients from disease transmission, increase communication, encourage more collaboration for safety, and assist in recognizing the value of consistently taking time to ensure all details are confirmed for a safe surgical procedure. Full participation by all key people in the operating room decreases the risk of error. It is the time when the entire surgical team pauses to confirm and agree that the appropriate surgery is about to be performed.

Mena Regional Health System provides a wide range of surgical procedures including General Surgery, Colorectal, Gynecological and Obstetrics, Endoscopy and Ophthalmology. In an effort to protect our staff, patients and visitors, extreme infec-

 n i d  We o

Th

Erin Cate Cody McCoy and

Saturday, June 20, 2020 at 7:30 PM The Beck Family Barn, Polk Road 282, Hatfield, AR Dinner and dance to follow

tion control policies continue to be required at the facility, including temperature checks for anyone entering the hospital. Pictured from left: Tony Tackett, ER Director; pam Posey, Infection Control; Lisa Wood, Med/

Surg and ICU Director; Sara hale, Quality Improvement; Dee Matejek, OR Director; Amber Taylor, Director of Women’s Services; and Rick Billingsley, Chief Nursing Officer - Submitted Photo

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June 17, 2020

Schubbe Named MSA Hometown Hero This month Main Street Arkansas is profiling Hometown Heroes from our Main Street communities. One hero announced this week is from right here in Mena.

Mitch Schubbe and wife, Jennifer, are business owners in downtown Mena. Like business owners throughout the country, both temporarily closed their businesses when the pandemic began. Over the years, Mitch has been a member of Mena Downtown Partners and is now serving as vice president. In addition, he is on the board of directors of the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce.

Although his primary business consists of computer repairs and sales, he has also done some 3D printing in the past. Back in March, Mitch noted that in one of his Facebook groups for 3D printing enthusiasts, some others were asking for help printing and sending simple face masks to hospitals in another part of the country. After familiarizing himself with the process, he assumed correctly that if these were needed at hospitals outside the state, they would probably be needed in Arkansas. It was at this time that his home became a 3D print-

ing facility. He ended up with five 3D printers which began working 24/7.

Mitch had a network of volunteers who volunteered to pick up printed parts from his front porch and take them directly to the post office, hospitals, clinics and nursing homes-- wherever they were needed. He hastens to add that without the volunteers and those who contributed more supplies and money to buy supplies, he would not have been able to do what he did.

Over several weeks, Mitch printed both face masks and ear savers-- almost 1500 of each. These were sent or delivered to 35 hospitals as well as clinics, police and fire departments, and nursing homes. Around the first of May, federal funding became available to provide Arkansas hospitals with needed PPE. Mitch has kept his printers set up in the event that the number of Covid 19 cases requires his assistance again. He is very gracious in recognizing all those who donated time, money, and skills and praising the technology that made his work possible.

2009, the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery has raised more than $954 million in scholarship proceeds and awarded more than 542,000 scholarships to students.

“The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery was started with the primary goal of helping Arkansas students realize their higher education goals,” said Bishop Woosley, director of the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery. “We have never deviated from that mission and are proud that more than 92 cents of every dollar raised through the sale of lottery tickets goes to scholarships, prizes, retailer commissions and other expenses.”

Traditional students must score at least 19 on the ACT to qualify for the scholarship. The latest ACT score accepted by Arkansas Department of Higher Education will be from the July testing. Students who have yet to achieve a score of 19 on the ACT may take the Accuplacer test remotely as a substitute.

Freshman students at four-year col LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Happy Father’s Day

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Lottery Scholarship Application Deadline Extended To August 1

LITTLE ROCK, AR –The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery announced today that the deadline to apply for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship has been extended to August 1 with modified eligibility requirements deemed necessary because of COVID-19.

Unlike in prior years, students who have a sufficient number of hours and have earned satisfactory academic progress before March 27 are automatically eligible for the scholarship for the 2020 fall semester.

“COVID-19 greatly disrupted our educational processes, particularly in terms of in-person learning,” said Maria Markham, director of the Division of Higher Education.

“We felt it necessary, therefore, to modify the requirements for those students who might have experienced a setback through no fault of their own.”

The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery provides tuition assistance to traditional and non-traditional students attending universities and two-year colleges, public and private, in the state. Since its inception in

479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344

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eciate We appr iness! your bus

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During their regular June meeting held Tuesday, June 9th, the Mena City Council approved a resolution authorizing the City Clerk/Treasurer to destroy outdated financial records and other documents. The resolution is inline with Arkansas State law, Arkansas Code Annotated 14-59-114 concerning the maintenance and destruction of accounting records, which allows the city to destroy old documents no longer used for city business.

The council also appointed Jeremy Jones to the Mena Airport Commission.

June 17, 2020

Mena City Council Holds June Meeting

Jones is to fill the unexpired term of Gregg McDonald; a five year term that expires in February, 2023.

During the department reports, it was reported that fuel sales at the airport were currently at about fifty percent of the 10 year average, affected mainly due to Covid-19 shutdowns. As airport traffic begins to increase, the Airport Commission says sales should increase as well.

In his report to the city council, Fire Chief Steve Egger told the council, “Last month, we had two smoke alarm activations, one

cooking fire,...I want to give kudos out to the police department, once again. They were johnny on the spot and they made a good stop with their portable extenquishers.” The chief said the fire department conducted one auto extrication, responded to one aircraft standby and one unauthorized control burn. The department provided fire extinguisher training for one industry and attended three public relations events.

The police department reported 304 calls for service in June, 54 arrests and 17

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accidents worked by officers.

And in the hospital report, Mena Regional Health Systems Administrator Jay Quebedeaux told the city's governing body that they are continuing to watch the spread of Covid-19 very closely. Quebedeaux said, “We are keeping a close eye and continue to take Covid very seriously.

We've had an uptick in cases, obviously, to the south of us. And, we've obviously had an uptick in Mena. So, we just continue to watch it.”

Governor Hutchinson Issues Executive Orders on Medical Immunity, Business Liability, and Workers Compensation Coverage Governor Asa Hutchinson issued executive orders today that clarify Workers Compensation Law during the public-health emergency, protect health care providers from liability, and exempt businesses from liability related to the spread of COVID-19.

“I want to thank the General Assembly for its leadership in securing support for limited immunity legislation and for requesting action by the executive order versus calling a special session during the pandemic.” Governor Hutchinson said. "I

also want to thank Steuart Walton and the Economic Recovery Task Force for their work on these important issues."

Executive Order 20-33 regarding employers and businesses orders that: • All businesses and their employees shall be immune from civil liablity as a result of exposure to COVID-19.

• Immunity does not apply to willful, reckless or intentional misconduct.

• A presumption that the actions are not willful or reckless if the business owner

substantially complies with public health directives.

• Immunity does not extend to worker compensation benefits.

• Immunity is effective from today until the emergency is terminated.

Executive Order 20-34 regarding immunity for health care providers orders that: • Health care workers and providers are authorized to use crisis standards of care to respond to treat COVID-19 patients.

Jack-Jack

“Where else can you go if there are 7 new kittens in the house.”

Submitted by Jackye Palmer

• The health care providers as emergency workers are immune from civil liability.

• Immunity does not extend to willful, reckless, or intentional misconduct.

• Immunity is effective from today until the emergency is terminated.

Executive Order 20-35 regarding workers compensation coverage orders that: • Assures workers compensation EXECUTIVE ORDERS CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

before Act 774 of 1983 took effect, thus he was allowed to choose his method of execution. He chose the electric chair. The other inmate executed in 1990 was the first to die by lethal injection.

The first drug injected is midazolam, a sedative. The second is vecuronium bromide, a paralytic drug. The third drug, potassium chloride, stops the heart from beating.

Attorneys for the inmates argued that the first drug injected, the sedative midazolam, does not always sedate a person deeply enough for them to not feel pain. Witnesses at the trial last year testified that they had seen one inmate moving and making sounds during his lethal injection.

The judge noted that the published side effects of midazolam include muscle tremors and involuntary movement. Also, the judge wrote that not all witnesses agreed on what they had observed during the lethal injection.

Witnesses at the trial had observed executions by lethal injection in Arkansas and in other states, both with and without midazolam.

Lottery ticket sales The Arkansas lottery broke a record for ticket sales in the month of May when $52.8

million in scratch off tickets were sold.

For comparison, in May of 2019, vendors sold $32.5 million in scratch off tickets.

Most of the proceeds from lottery ticket sales are returned as prizes, but $8.6 million of the total amount was designated for college scholarships.

The lottery director noted that most vendors have remained open during the pandemic. The state’s casinos, as well as movie theaters, concerts and sporting events, had to close. Also, gasoline prices are relatively low.

COUNTY CLERK UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 plication at the County Clerk’s Office or you can call the County Clerk’s Office, and we will be happy to mail the application to you.

If you register to vote when you renew your driver’s license or car tags but do not receive anything from the clerk’s office within a week or two, you should give us a call and confirm that we received your registration application.

We are always excited to get new people who are interested in serving as election workers. If this is something you think you might be interested in, please contact the County Clerk’s Office for more information. Election workers are required to at-

Dr. Tyler Frans Dr. Gordon McDonald

staff@phacmena.com

tend training before they can be appointed to work.

We realize and understand that there is a lot of uncertainty in the world currently, but we do not want this to discourage anyone from voting. We want people to come out and vote, and we want to have successful elections. If you have any questions about your voter registration or voting in Polk County, please call the County Clerk’s Office at 479-394-8123.

PROTECTING AMERICA’S CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 Fund to support maintenance and upkeep at our national parks, national forests and public lands overseen by various federal management agencies. This would help decrease the National Park Service maintenance backlog that exists across the country including the $28.2 million worth of improvements to Arkansas sites like the Buffalo National River and Hot Springs National Park.

It would also permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at $900 million annually so we can expand access to public lands for outdoor recreation. The LWCF has been used to improve public access and protect Arkansas federal recreation areas like the Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, and

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the Cache River National Wildlife Refuge.

The LWCF also provides grants to states to develop parks and other recreation areas.

The Department of the Interior reports that funding has been provided to every county in the country since the program was established in 1965.

This investment in public lands would help reignite local economies and create jobs, helping small businesses get back on their feet. It would provide urgently needed stimulus to the outdoor recreation industry that generates 96,000 jobs and $9.7 billion in consumer spending in Arkansas alone.

The outdoors is part of the identity of the Natural State. It brings people together to enjoy their favorite pastimes. We can be proud of the resources in our backyard that bond us to nature, attract visitors from around the world and support economic growth.

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WEEK IN REVIEW ONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

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June 17, 2020

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05.17.20

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 06.10.20

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Daddio will bring a smile to the faces of those he meets! He is such a great looking boy!

Daddio is good with other dogs too. He is a medium-sized pooch at 39 pounds. A birthday party requested in December (12/29/10) and you are the one he has invited as it is held at your place! Daddio wants a human mom or dad or both!

ALL ANIMALS AT HSO ARE SPAYED/NEUTERED AND ARE CURRENT ON THEIR VACCINATIONS PRIOR TO ADOPTION.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

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June 17, 2020

Cancellations, Closings and Changes...

Wolf Pen Gap Trail system is OPEN. Forest visitors are asked to avoid congregating at trailheads and parking areas and refrain from gathering in groups of 10 or more. The trail system does close when heavy rain is predicted. For more information, contact the Mena-Oden Ranger District at 479-394-2382 Queen Wilhelmina State Park has announced that all park-driven special events will be canceled through June 30th, with the exception of fishing derbies.

Due to health department guidelines concerning social distancing during the COVID-19 Pandemic, the City of Mena feels it is in the best public interest for McMillan Park Swimming Pool to remain closed until further notice.

Healthy Connections is offering COVID-19 testing regardless of symptoms. For more info go online to www. healthy-connections.org The Farmer’s Market in Mena, located at the Historic KCS Depot on Sherwood Street in downtown Mena opened for the season. The Farmer’s Market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. until sold out.

Some area restaurants are open with limited seating allowed. Also some Barber shops and beauty salons and excercise gymns are open in Arkansas with limited patronage.

The Polk County Library offers book pickup. You can reserve a title by calling 479-394-2314 and pick up your books the next day. Follow them on Facebook for new arrival announcements.

Fresh Start Pregnancy Center is now operating with normal business hours and activities.

Mena Art Gallery is open by appointment. You can contact them to schedule a visit by calling 479-394-3880, texting 479-234-5440, or send an email to email@ menaartgallery.org. They are also now accepting entries for the Folk Art and Fiber Art Show. For more information, call the gallery, visit their website, or check them out on Facebook.

Mena Elks Lodge 781 of Mena opened on Tuesday, May 26th. There is a com-

plete guide to what needs to be followed on the Mena Elks Lodge Facebook page. www.facebook.com/Mena-ElksLodge-781-134750103260123

call toll-free 1-877-828-4074 or call theMena office at 479-394-4140. Payments can be made at the Drive Thru, Night Deposit or website www.rmec.com.

Bingo at American Legion resumed Monday, June 1st. No food will be served, social distancing required, along with face masks.

FROM THE EXTENSION SERVICE OFFICE We are having to suspend all 4-H, EHC, Master Gardener, & educational activities for the time being due to COVID-19.

Freedom Water office is open as of Wednesday, May 20th. If you need to know your balance or have any questions you may call office at 479-394-7500 during business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Union Bank lobby, First Financial Bank lobby and other banks lobbies in the area are closed until further notice.

Acorn Rural Water Office is now open to the public and customers.For more information call 479-394-1025.

The District Court Clerk’s office IS open to the public. Please remember when you visit the office to respect the social distancing guidelines of maintaining a 6 ft. distance. If you have any questions please call 479-394-3271 or you can email info. distctplkcoar.net For more information and updates, visit websites of the Ouachita National Forest at www.fs.usda.gov/ouachita or the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests at www.fs.usda. gov/osfnf/.

Updates can also be found at the Ouachita National Forest Facebook site at www.facebook.com/ouachitanf and Ozark-St. Francis National Forest at www. facebook.com/ozarkstfrancis/.

The Mena ARVAC office is closed to the public. We are still able to help individuals with utility assistance. For more info call 394-4707.

Hatfield Town Hall is closing the Lobby.

All payments can be put in the Dropbox or pay at Hatfield Union Bank. Attach your Bill that is mailed out to you with your payment. The office personnel can be reached at 870-389-6611. Also during the Covid-19 social distancing time no Reservations can be taken for Use of the building.

Hatfield Jubilee In June cancelled this year.

Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative office lobbies are closed to protect health of members and employees. We will operate business as usual through the drive through. Members may report outages by

Congregate meals at Cossatot Senior Center will be closed until further notice.

Will do drive up/pick up from 10am-11am.

Also will continue home delivered meals as normal. Contact 479-234-3503 to be included or for more details.

The Mena Polk County Senior Center NOT open for daily activities. If you are senior citizen 60 years of age or older and would like to pick up a meal to go at the center, call for more information at 479394-5459. If you are currently a participant and would still like a meal, you may call the senior center between 9 and 11:00 to place an order to be picked up. We will continue serving meals to go every day form 11:30am thru 12 Noon. The Grab & Go meals are still the suggested donation price of $3.00 each. Any extra monetary donations are greatly appreciated!! The number to call is 479-394-5459 to order a meal. No meals after 12 noon. Stay tuned to facebook page and local radio stations for further info.

Sunday morning June 14th Mena First Baptist Church resumed Sunday School at 9:30am and the Morning Service will be in the Sanctuary for worship at 10:30am.

The Morning Service will continue to be streamed on Mena First Baptist Church Facebook page. Also the Wednesday Bible Study at 6pm will be in the Mena FBC Fellowship Hall.

First Christian Church at 1010 Port Arthur in Mena will hold a service in their Fellowship Hall at 10:45am on Sundays.

Trinity Lutheran Church at 1010 DeQueen Street has resumed Sunday morning services at 10am.

The Southside Church of God schedule Sunday Morning services in the Sanctu-

calendar

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ary At 10:45 AM Sunday Evening services in the Sanctuary At 6:00 PM Wednesday night Warriors for Christ Youth service begins at 6. The Church is located at 101 Dallas Ave. First United Methodist Church is holding church services on Sundays at 10am in the Church parking lot.

Faith Missionary Baptist Church Sunday morning service continues to air on 104.1FM KENA each Sunday from 11am to Noon. And you can NOW attend service inside the Church. Also service is streamed online on their Facebook page.

Dallas Avenue Baptist Church will be having a service inside at 10:30am. Please wear masks. They will also be streaming service.

Bible Believers Baptist Church will be having church service Sunday morning at 11am inside the church building.

Christ’s Church at Mountain Fork will be holding service at the Churches Activity Center at 10:45am. Social Distancing followed.

Grace Bible Church is now holding their service inside the building. To contact the church dial (479) 394-4092.

Christ Community Fellowship officially opened Sunday, June 7th at 10:30 am! No Sunday School, or Children Services will be offered until further notice! There will still be LIVE STREAM, and also be on FM 88.3 for those who still want to Drive In!! >If you are at high risk, have been in contact with a person who has tested positive for Covid-19, or have run a fever within the last week, PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND! >Every person 10yrs old or older MUST wear a mask when inside CCF (bring your own mask)! >Follow Social Distancing Rules! Do not shake hands or hug people. Keep 6’ of distance. > Wait to be seated by an Usher. Do not move chairs, an usher will do that for you. > Please stay at you seat. Please help us keep everyone safe while we worship!

Hopefully with everyone’s cooperation, we will be able to look more “normal” soon!!

First Presbyterian church services are being filmed and put online.

No in person service until further notice.

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classifieds CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree trimming needs, Call Wendell’s Tree Service (479)394-0227 or (479)2164328 TFN Complete Yard Care, mowing, weed eating, hedge trimming, and more. When you need an extra hand. Free estimates.

Mena and Polk County (479)234-0509.

T072920

mypulsenews.com

June 17, 2020

Has Your

Weekend Project Become A

5 Year Lawn Ornament?

Maybe It’s Time To List It

Mena Real Estate 816 S Mena Street Mena, AR 71953

The Cole Team 479-394-5000

Mena Garage & Overhead Doors.

Service, repair, and sales on all door brands, specializing in operator sales, services, and repairs. Free estimates.

Call Ron at (479)216-9852 T062420 Land Clearing, Tree Service and Lawn Care. RC Customz land clearing, mulching and more. Services include: Fence lines, clearing of lots, brush-hogging, trenching, fencing, tree services, mowing and more. Mulching is great solution for clearing overgrowth while leaving desirable trees. We service both residential and commercial customers.

Military discount available. Insured.

Please call 479-216-2976 for a free estimate.

T072920

- EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Registered Dental Assistant needed for busy dental office. Must have experience and be able to pass drug test.

Competitive pay and excellent benefits.

Call Office Manager Colleen Romero at (870)490-2430 T061720

Nan Gaddis 479-234-2777

Polk County Pulse Classifieds Debbie Pate 479-234-1490

Team Smallwood 479-243-3407

Nancy Wright 479-243-7199

- YARD SALES Yard Sale: Fri & Sat, June 19-20, 8:005:00, 309 Jenny Lind Dr. Park on Eagle Gap. Small appliances, dishes, drapes, carpet cleaner, vacuum, patio chair cushions, and much more.

T061720

Bridgett Atkins 479-234-6006

(479) 394-5000

ENORMOUS COMMERCIAL SITE! Excellent location on Hwy 71 S inside Mena city limits. 4.5 acres of Excellent business opportunities and easy access with U.S. highway and paved county road. Ready and leveled for your construction. This is an opportunity just waiting for you! $185,000 MRE #3608 MLS#20001269 It's a little gem hidden in the woods! This three bedroom, two bath ranch style home features rustic accents in the living room and master suite. It has a large country kitchen/ dining combo, spacious laundry, back porch decking, and lots of outside storage. Fenced back yard, and acreage is fenced for livestock.

7.48 acres fenced for horses or cattle. Loafing shed. Older barn. Shared pond. Mountain views. Privacy. Offered "AS IS". MRE# 5400 MLS # 20001799

#5450 Very nice, well kept 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on large 1.77 acre lot intown!. Brick home has 1710 square feet.

Fireplace.

Shop. Outbuilding. Storm Shelter.

Shade trees! Must See $164,900 MLS# 20016469 #5348 JUST RIGHT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! 1893 sqft home has 3 BD/2BA. Open floor plan w/ living/dining combo making entertaining easier.

Woodburning fireplace w/built in shelving. Some newer floor covering. Nice kitchen w/ ample cabinets & counter space. Den/family room w/access out to the covered sunporch. A large, fenced in backyard w/detached garage/shop. $92,500.

Teamsmallwood.BIZ/19024675. TEXT 9405 to 46835 for Visual Tour.

Beautiful acreage in South Polk County…..20 acres to hunt on with a live spring! Pure, cold water of your own, without the bottled stuff! Lots of hardwoods, some fencing, dead end road.

MRE #5384 MLS #19036574 $50,000 www.nancywright.biz/crm19036574 Nice 4 BR Brick Home in lovely location w/attached carport new heating & air, updates throughout plus updated appliances on ½ acre lot there’s a brick storage building/shop with electric. Priced below appraised value $109,000 MLS#20007209

$78,000

news

June 17, 2020

mypulsenews.com

LeadAR Opens Applications for Next Leadership Class LeadAR, the state’s premier leadership program, is searching for its next class of leaders.

Operated by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, LeadAR offers participants an in-depth and global view of issues facing their communities, state and country. The 22-month program includes bi-monthly seminars, a week in Washington, D.C., to gain insight on the policy-making process and how it impacts Arkansas, and an international study tour to compare communities and economies and find cultural sharing opportunities.

Participants selected will attend threeday seminars every other month in different communities and regions in Arkansas.

Sessions will focus on infrastructure, public health and local food systems, education and criminal justice, natural resources, community development and workforce, public policy, row crop agriculture and livestock/poultry.

The program culminates with an international study tour to learn how international issues compare and impact Arkansas.

Applications for Class 19 will be accepted through July 20. To learn more about LeadAR and to apply, visit www.uaex.edu/ leadar.

LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 leges receive $1,000 from the scholarship. Second-and third-year students receive $4,000, and senior level students are awarded $5,000 per year.

At two-year colleges, first-year students receive $1,000, while second-year students are awarded $3,000. To maintain eligibility, students must keep a 2.5 GPA. Additionally, students seeking certification for high-demand occupations such as in healthcare and information technology may apply for the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship, which is also funded by lottery revenue. Students must apply

19

at least 30 days before enrolling in an eligible program.

For more info, scholarships.ADHE.edu.

EXECUTIVE ORDERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 coverage for employees.

• COVID-19 is considered an occupational disease under the law.

• COVID-19 shall be an exception to prohibition on compensation for ordinary diseases of life.

• There must be a causal connection between employment and the disease.

• Extends during the public health emergency.

Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing TIRES BRAKES CUSTOM EXHUAST SHOCKS & STRUTS CONTINUED ON PAGEHours: Mon.- Fri. 8 am - 5:30 pm

1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

Owner: Stacy & Julie Nash

394-1938

OR

Spending the weekend changing light bulbs.

Relaxing in your favorite chair.

Where Would You Spend Your Game When it comes to light bulbs, a good offense is the best defense. That’s why Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs make smart dollars and sense. With the life of traditional light bulbs, you won’t have to worry about untimely burnouts interrupting your game day activities. For more information about Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs or other energy saving tips contact RIch Mountain Electric Cooperative at 1-877-828-4074 . After all, it’s our nature to be cooperative.

NO BIG BOX STORE PRICES

Your Proud Polk County Dealer

cing n a n i F 0% Months. f o r 3 6W A C

Babdboy Mowers

Mz 42" - $3299 MZ Magnum 48" - $3399 ZT Elite 54" - $4899 ZT Elite 60 - $4999 Maverick 60" - $5999 all!!...Service after the sale!

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20

June 17, 2020

All New 2019’s 0% for 84Mo. WAC

MENA

mypulsenews.com

479-394-2214 1103 N U.S. 71 Mena, AR 71953

All New 2020’s 0% for 72Mo. WAC

COME SEE OUR GREAT SELECTIONS INCLUDING: SOLD

2016 FORD F-150 EXTENDED CAB, OXFORD WHITE, 4-DOOR ($25,995)

2015 FORD EDGE SEL SUV, WHITE, 4-DOOR, 62,527 MILES ($17,995)

2012 FORD FOCUS SEL HATCHBACK, STERLING GRAY, 4-DOOR, 72,115 MILES ($7,995)

2006 TOYOTA TUNDRA DOUBLE CAB, GRAY, V8, 316,362 MILES ($5,995)

2014 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED SUV, TUXEDO BLACK, 4-DOOR, 63,407 MILES ($20,995)

2014 FORD F-150 LARIAT SUPER CREW CAB, BRONZE, 4-DOOR, 105,789 MILES ($22,995)

SOLD

2005 CHEVROLET TAHOE SUV, SILVER, 4-DOOR, 121,680 MILES ($7,995)

2016 FORD F-150 SPORT SUPER CREW CAB, RUBY RED, 4-DOOR, 130,048 MILES ($20,995)