Polk County Pulse April 27, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

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Beautifying Polk County

INSIDE:

Pages 22-23

Earth Day Fishing Derby

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Honoring our veterans by: Cortez Copher, regent

The Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit was open for everyone at the Mena football stadium parking lot Tuesday, April 12. It was sponsored by the James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR. The purpose of the display was to bring our community together to learn about the Wreaths Across America (WAA) mission: Remember The Fallen; Honor Those Who Serve; Teach Our Children The Value Of Freedom; and Bridge The Gap between active-duty service members, veterans, and civilians.

A special program was sponsored by the James K. Polk DAR Chapter in the Mena High School (MHS) football stadium to honor all veterans, but especially to “Welcome Home” Vietnam War Veterans.

Rainy weather kept most veterans at home, but there were 12 in the large assembly who came forward and received a “Welcome Home Handshake” and a “Thank You for Your Service!” from the Mobile Education Exhibit (MEE) ambassador, and driver, Stefan (Steve) Brann.

The Vietnam Veterans were also

Local Sports Excelling

Mena Spring Clean-Up

April 27, 2022

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

See PLANTS continued on page 2

See MEE continued on page 4

2 News

THE POLK COUNTY

April 27, 2022

Pulse

PLANTS gardeners about the area working in the continued from page 1 flower beds.

By Ethan Nahté

One local attraction has recently been worked on by Joe and LaDonna Van Wolf, who take care of the flowerbeds at the train depot and the small strip of grassy area adjacent to the depot. There, you will discover geraniums in the pots, along with tulips and daffodils. According to Glenn, the Van Wolf ’s got a great deal at Garvan Woodland Gardens and purchased approximately 100 bulbs. The result is a bright display that’s visually appealing and provides some pop and pizazz amongst the buildings and train tracks.

Looking to spruce up the yard? Adding some color to the house? The Polk County Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale has returned, coming to the Polk County Fairgrounds, Saturday, May 7, 8 a.m.-noon.

Whether you are buying or just browsing, if you would like to see a variety of plants and flowers, the free event is open to all. The Polk County Master Gardeners are once more offering the public the opportunity to purchase healthy plants and garden-related gifts, just in time for that annual event, Mother’s Day. You can’t keep a good plant down.

Ann Glenn, with the publicity committee for the Master Gardeners of Polk County, said, “We usually have a very good reception with people lined up at the doors. We’re hoping it will be equally popular this year. We had to cancel last year because of COVID. The plants are healthy and a good buy.”

That being said, face masks and Flowers, plants and shrubs add an appeasing splash of hand sanitizer will be available. color at the depot.(Ethan Nahté/Pulse) Social distancing will be encouraged.

There will also be plenty of greenery and “In the past, we have purchased plants requested that we don’t generally grow. vibrant colors at the plant sale. Don’t worThis year, these are plants that are surplus ry if you aren’t sure what to purchase for from the courthouse. We take care of the a sunny area versus a shaded area, or, for beds there. Or, they’re from our own gar- example, what to plant if you would like to dens. Some have been started from seed. attract butterflies.

“Master Gardeners will be on hand to anMost are more mature or held over from swer your questions about the plants and the previous year and kept alive.”

Funds received from the sale are returned their care,” Glenn said. “Plants have been to the community, usually in the form of dug from our own local gardens, so they education programs and local scholarships. will be completely acclimated to our local Prices vary depending, in part, on the conditions. They will be labeled for placecondition of the plants and their maturity. ment in sun or in shade.”

If you have an interest in becoming a Please bring cash or check only. No credit member, whether you’re a novice or have a or debit cards will be accepted.

“The prices are reasonable. We are a green thumb, the plant sale will be an excelservice organization. Part of our goal is to lent event to discover what the Polk County Master Gardeners are all about. There will make our town beautiful.”

If you’ve recently been to the Polk Coun- be approximately a dozen master gardeners ty Court House, you may have noticed that to assist and provide information. There there are flowers in bloom in some places, will also be a table with material to learn and perhaps a sign or two stuck in bare how to become a master gardener.

Glenn said, “We’d love to have new memdirt closer to the staircase asking visitors to excuse the mess as the master gardeners bers and younger people—and men. We’re work to improve the exterior’s aesthetic. As looking to have another class in the fall.” a matter of fact, you may have seen various

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

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OLT news, ticket sales and elections

Submitted by Julie Ulmer

may also be made from the floor during the meeting.

The “Burn the Mortgage Campaign” is making a big push to receive enough donations to finish the project of OLT owning the historic Lyric building. The theater group has collected a little over $20,000 and hopes to collect the final $10,000 needed to pay off the building before the end of May. The 100th anniversary of the Lyric Theatre is in 2023, and the goal for OLT is to own the building before the milestone year begins.

The cast for Ouachita Little Theatre’s spring Broadway musical, “Matilda,” is in full swing putting the final touches on blocking, choreography, and vocals. Director Jessica Kropp states “’Matilda” is going to be stunning! This cast is really progressing quickly.

I am totally engaged in making art with them, and that is a lovely and wonderful thing.”

Performance dates are May 13-15 and 20-22. Get your reserved seating tickets for “Matilda” online (OLTMena.com) or during regular office hours at the OLT office, 610 Mena St. Season tickets can now be obtained online as well.

Follow directions on the website or consult the April newsletter (also found online) for detailed directions.

The annual Membership Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 11 at 5 p.m. at the theater.

The public is invited. It will follow the monthly board meeting at Anna Burt (Matilda), Jenna Williams, Macy Herod, Evie Norris 4 p.m. Officers and and Skylar Bahr rehearsing for the upcoming performance. board members will be (Submitted photo) elected at the membership meeting as well as a vote concerning FYI: Ouachita Little Theatre will be phasamendments to the constitution. OLT patrons ing out their post office box, so please direct and supporters are encouraged to attend. all mail to the physical address at 610 Mena Candidates for officers include the follow- Street beginning immediately. ing: Alex Night (president) Brad Storey (vice Suite A, part of the Lyric Building, has unpresident) Judy Kropp (secretary) Bill Hays dergone a major remodeling and is current(Treasurer) and five board positions. Those ly rented by Logan Byrd who is running his board nominees include Lamar Austin, Jes- technical business from the site. sica Kropp, Robby Burt, Rudi Timmerman, and Ann Glenn. Nominations for all positions

News 3

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4 News

April 27, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

MEE continued from page 1 played taps. Wood and retired USAF given a commemorative coin, and Lt. Col. Skip Copher carried a wreath a copy of the Proclamation signed and placed it by the headstone at the by former President Donald Trump MEE. The crowd was estimated to be designating each March 29 as a Na- over 300.

The James K. Polk DAR Chapter tional Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day to honor all of those who wishes to say, “Thank You!” to everyone who helped plan this wonanswered our Nation’s call to duty.

The program commenced at 10 a.m. with a welcome from the James K. Polk regent, Cortez Copher.

Cortez introduced retired Senior Master Sgt. Linda Johnson, USAF, as Master of Ceremony. Johnson was the recipient of the 2021 Wreaths Across America Ambassador, Steve Brann (far right), James K. Polk gave each Vietnam War Veteran a “Welcome Home” handshake, them with 50-Year pins and a proclamation signed by DAR “Wom- presented former President Donald Trump designating each March 29 as an in American the National Vietnam War Veterans Day to honor all of those who History Award.” answered our nation’s call to duty.

(Photo courtesy of Cortez Copher) The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Annika Thompson, the first- derful day for honoring our heroes, place winner of the James K. Polk and especially our Vietnam War Chapter DAR Good Citizens contest Veterans. Without the support and and chosen as second-place winner help from the Mena School District in Arkansas by the Arkansas State superintendent, Dr. Lee Smith, adDaughters of American Revolution. ministration, teachers, students, and The national anthem was sung by behind-the-scenes school personnel, the Bearcat Bellas: Noah Dodson, this great event would not have been Yennyte Tecson, Holiday Neufeld, possible. The “Welcome Escorts” Miranda Burt, Isabel Adams, Shan- from the Polk County sheriff, Mena tal Tecson, Jaeli Fields, and Abi Kop- police chief, and CMA riders were greatly appreciated. pein.

Thanks also to the Mena meThe honorary speaker was Vietnam War Veteran, retired U.S. Army dia, and the veterans’ organizations (VFW, DAV, American Legion, and Col. Billy Wood.

The MHS choir director, Lana Gail Marine Corps League) for getting Coogan, sang, “God Bless The USA.” the word out and helping the James At the end of the program, Chris- K. Polk DAR throughout the day tian Pelligreno of the MHS band, with the MEE.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

April 27, 2022

From the

State House of Representatives

From online homework assulted with nearly 30 broadsignments to scheduling teleband providers to learn more health visits, we live in a digital about their perspectives. world where high-speed access The report not only assesses is no longer a luxury. Unfortucurrent broadband availability, nately, too many households but also maps out where the across Arkansas are still unbroadband gap exists in the able to access high-quality John Maddox state, calculates the budget broadband internet. needed to bridge the gap, and According to a report remakes recommendations for leased this week, Arkansas currently improvements to the Arkansas Rural has 110,000 households that are un- Connect grant program. derserved when it comes to broadband The report found that significant access. progress has already been made by utiUnderserved households are those lizing state and federal programs in rewith less than 100+ Mbps access. cent years to create coverage for about In October of last year, the Arkan- 100,000 households. sas Legislative Council approved a The remaining 110,000 households contract with the Broadband Devel- are not currently addressed by any opment Group to create a master plan identified programs at any level. It estifor broadband development. The group mates the cost of covering these housereleased its report this week. holds at about $500 million. The report The group hosted or attended more recommends using funds through than 300 community meetings in all 75 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and counties and received more than 18,000 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act surveys from residents in every county (IIJA) grants to close the current gaps. across the state. Several Arkansas legThe General Assembly is currently islators participated in these meetings reviewing the recommendations. You to ensure a variety of voices were heard can find the full report at www.arkanduring the community fact-finding sashouse.org/. portion of our research. They also con-

Contact Your Legislators!

John Maddox

John.Maddox@ arkansashouse.org 520 Church Avenue Mena, AR 71953 Call: 479-394-6060

Larry Teague

Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903 Nashville, AR 71852 870-845-5303

John Boozman

1120 Garrison Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone: (479) 573-0189 Fax: (479) 575-0553

Bruce Westerman 101 Reserve St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: (501) 609-9796 Fax: (501) 609-9887

From the

State Senate percent a year.

LITTLE ROCK – A sixThe exponential growth in month survey of Internet access capacity is expected to conin Arkansas has been complettinue, so the state study reced, and state officials now have ommends that providers be a more accurate roadmap of required to “future proof ” all which regions need more innew networks they install. That vestment in broadband techmeans they should be required nologies.

They also have a clearer idea Larry Teague to install technology that is proven to be able to handle deof how much that investment mands of tomorrow. Fiber optic cable will cost. With up to $350 million, is an example. broadband can be provided to about The study recognizes that the month100,000 households. Then it gets even ly price paid by consumers is a factor more expensive. To provide Internet that can cause an area to be lacking in capability to the last 10,000 isolated service. In other words, if the governhomes in Arkansas will cost about $200 ment pays a provider to install a system million. that nobody can afford, that provider There are 1.7 million households in has not served the area with high speed Arkansas, according to the U.S. Census Internet.

Bureau. A total of about 210,000 houseThe study recommends $50 a month holds lack adequate broadband access, per household, or less, as the standard according to the statewide broadband for describing broadband as affordable. study that was released recently.

The consulting firm that did the Of those 210,000 households lacking study, Broadband Development Group, broadband, about 100,000 are eligible held more than 300 community meetfor existing state and federal programs ings and surveyed more than 18,000 and the remaining 110,000 households Arkansas residents. are in areas where no government proThe firm worked with 29 broadband gram exists. Those are the households providers and electric co-ops, and for which it will cost about $550 milwith the Farm Bureau, the Municipal lion to connect them to high-speed InLeague, the state Chamber of Comternet. merce, the Association of Arkansas The standard of high speed broadCounties, the Arkansas State Library band capacity steadily goes up. The Association and the Arkansas Sheriffs statewide study set it at 100/20 megaAssociation. bits per second. The first number reThe state Education Department, fers to download speed and the second Transportation Department, State Ponumber to upload speed. lice, UAMS, the Economic DevelopIn the early days of the Internet, still ment Commission, Arkansas PBS and images and text made up the majority the Division of Agriculture helped. of content on web sites, and the data The Covid-19 pandemic provided a that consumers uploaded and downhuge impetus for the project, because loaded. so many students and employees had Now, consumers expect to listen to to work from home. Federal covid reaudio, such as podcasts that can last lief funds have been essential for much more than 10 minutes. They expect to of investment in broadband that the watch videos, and send them to friends, state has made over the past three years. family and business associates.

Since July of 2019 the state Broadband Consumer expectations have helped Office has distributed $386 million in drive a remarkable growth in broadgrants to local communities. band capacity. For the past 30 years it has averaged growth of more than 50

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

Betty Mae Philpot

Mrs. Betty Mae Philpot, age 86, passed away Monday, April 18, 2022, in Mena, Arkansas, surrounded by her beloved family. She was born October 27, 1935, in Highland, Arkansas, to the late Millard and Dollie Miller Deramus.

Mrs. Philpot was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed gardening and working with flowers in her yard, additionally she loved cooking for her family and was a hobbyist quilter. She faithfully attended the Cherry Hill Gospel Church for many years.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Millard and Dollie Deramus; her loving husband, Jim Philpot; brother, Marion Bow; sister, Jan Henry; granddaughter, Kari Lyle Cruz; and by her daughter-in-law, Beverly Philpot. She is survived by her sons, Dennis Philpot and wife Peggy, Steve Philpot and wife Diane; daughters, Sandy Lyle and husband Rick, Melanie Titsworth and husband Mitch; grandchildren, Laura Kiersey, Travis Philpot, Amanda Warrington, Andy Philpot, Tosha Bissell, Tawaynea Tedder, Colby Philpot, Clay Philpot, Greg Tedder, Chris Tedder, Pamela Brown, Kris Lyle, Kari Cruz, Jimmy Titsworth, and Jayme Newby; 45 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren on the way; her brothers, Dan Deramus, Doyle Deramus, Randy Deramus; her sisters, Mae Dean Hoover, and Mary Ellen New; as well as a host of other family and friends too numerous to mention.

The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation to the caregivers and staff of Homewood Cottages for their kind and loving care for Mrs. Betty Philpot.

Services for Mrs. Philpot will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 21, 2022, at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas.

Brother Mark Lyle will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery in Cherry Hill, Arkansas. There will be a formal visitation one hour prior to service.

Pallbearers are her grandsons, Travis,

Kris, Colby, Clay, Jimmy, and Andy.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jared Newby, Scott Kiersey, Art Warrington, Otis Bissell, Chris Tedder, and Santos Cruz (Santo) Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Jessica Jenai Mann

Jessica Jenai Mann, age 21, of Cove, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, April 19, 2022, in Hatfield, Arkansas. She was born on Thursday, September 14, 2000, to Claude Everett Elder and LaDonna Michelle Smith in Wellington, Kansas.

Jessica was bubbly, funny and so full of life. She radiated brightness and happiness.

Jessica had a tender big heart and she loved to have fun with her family. She enjoyed the outdoors and often would ride horses and four wheelers or even just sit by the river and listen to it flow. Jessica also liked to fish and buck hunt. She was very adventurous and could always be counted on to join a road trip to anywhere. She was a very talented cook and just recently made shrimp alfredo, from scratch, for her mother.

Jessica was very good at billiards and loved playing in her Mom’s tournaments.

She liked all kinds of music, but her favorite was Country music, she listened very closely to lyrics and the meanings of the songs.

Jessica was proud of getting her GED and completing her CNA classes to become a CNA. She was excited to start classes in the Fall and aspired to be a physical therapist.

Jessica lived in the moment, through many struggles in her life she was always thankful she got through them with the love and support of her family. She was deeply loved by all her family. Jessica was a loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, cousin, niece, and friend and will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her sister, Reagan Michelle Bradshaw.

Jessica is survived by her mother and stepfather, LaDonna Smith and Tommy Fall of Cove, Arkansas; three brothers, Grant Greenwell of Trumann, Arkansas, Michael Elder of Pocahontas, Arkansas, and Logan

Dean Withem of Cove; one sister, Ashton Brooke Smith of Cove; four grandmothers, Bernita Claudine Elder of Wellington, Kansas, Anita Sue Mayfield of Wilton, Arkansas, Mary Smith of Wynne, Arkansas, and “Nana” Kathy Fall of Cove; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service for Jessica will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at 10:00 AM at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas, with Brother Reggie Fryar officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. General visitation will be during office hours on Friday, April 22, 2022, at Bowser Family Funeral Home.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com.

Marjorie Bartley Gilliam

Marjorie “Marge” Bartley Gilliam, age 88, passed away, January 27, 2022, in Amarillo, Texas. She was born November 19, 1933, in Ringgold, LA. She was a long-time resident of Polk Co, AR. She married Lawrence B. ‘Ben’ Gilliam on Sept 7, 1951. She was an Air Force wife for 18 yrs., stationed in several U.S. states and Puerto Rico. Marge was a shining light of strength to family and friends; and had an unwavering faithfulness to our Lord. She was asked and accepted a volunteer counseling job while a resident of Medical Lodge of Amarillo, due to her positive attitude and compassion for others.

Marge is predeceased by her parents, James D. and Essie Bartley; her husband Ben; and siblings, Larry Bartley, Joyce Robinson, and Doris Woodard. She is survived by her daughters Roxi Bates and husband Dan; Linda Taylor and husband, Randy; grandchildren Jonathon and Hannah Taylor; 4 great-grandchildren; 1 sister-in-law, Edna Rogers; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marge is interred in Pinecrest Memorial Cemetery in Mena, AR. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. May 14, 2022, at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, with Bro. Lynn Chiles officiating. Casual dress.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating

in Marge’s name, to Yocana Baptist Church, P.O. BX 876, Mena, AR 71953.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

William Charles Spenser

William Charles Spenser, age 66, of Mena passed away peacefully on January 25, 2022, at the VA hospital in Little Rock to an untreatable medical condition. On his final day he was surrounded by his children, who he adored more than anything in the world.

William was known by many as Will, Bill, William, Dad, Papaw, Grandpa, brother, friend, and uncle. Will was born July 18, 1955, in Washington D.C. to the late Charles Spenser and Joan Mccaffrey.

William is survived by two sons Patrick Spenser and his wife Valarie of Mena and Kevin Spenser of Nashville, TN and one daughter, Angelina Butterfield and her husband Josh of Mena, AR. 16 grandchildren, two brothers, and one sister, Jack Spenser, James Spenser, and Kathleen Cross; and a host of family and friends. He was preceded by his parents Charles and Joan Spenser and his sister Joanne Engstrom.

He left home at age 16 hiking-only needing a pair of skibbies and a toothbrush-with a full life of adventures awaiting. He lived, traveled and worked in many locations in various jobs including Colorado, Missouri, California, Texas, Vermont, Arizona and ending in Arkansas. His two main careers were Navy Seabees military veteran and a truck driver. Will was a devoted Christian who loved anything that included food including cooking, eating especially feeding others. His biggest passions in life were his children and grandchildren. He always put their needs first even in his final hours.

The memorial service will be at Christ Church at Mt. Fork Hwy 88 Wat, Mt. Fork, Arkansas on April 30, 2022, at 2 p.m.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Obituaries 7

April 27, 2022

Lucille May

Mrs. Lucille May, age 87, passed away April 23, 2022, in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

She was born September 13, 1934, in Proctor, Oklahoma, to the late John Bailey and Lillie Mae Vaughn.

Mrs. May was united in marriage to Mr. Otis “Doc” May on December 1, 1948, and was married 72 years until his passing in September of 2021. Lucille enjoyed baking, quilting, gardening and spending time outdoors. Additionally, it was said that she made the best fried apple pies.

Mrs. May is preceded in death by her loving husband, Mr. Otis “Doc” May; beloved sons, James May, Jerry May, and Eugene May; as well as 9 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her grandchildren, Timmy May and partner, Brandon Holligan, Brandie Simpson, Chris May, Brittany Smith and husband, Zak Smith; daughters-in-law, Yevette, and Debbie; great-grandchildren, Chase Pyle, Alexa Brewer and husband, Billy, Christian Field, Brenden Field, Olivia, Kennedi, Brady, Hayden, Jase, Ryker, Chevelle, Emery, and Tenley; great-greatgrandchildren, Kailie, Bentley, Gracie, Reese, and Levi; brothers, Leonard Bailey and wife Virginia; sister-in-law, Allie Walters; as well as several nieces and nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Graveside services for Mrs. May will be held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas. Brother Roger Bishop will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Tony W. Foster

Tony W. Foster, age 31, passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2022. He was born June 10, 1990, in Tucson, Arizona, to Terry Dale Foster and Teresa Lynn Destrini.

Tony was an upholsterer by profession and was a very hard worker. He was an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing and going to his grandparent’s cabin.

Additionally, he loved mechanic work, playing guitar, spending time with family, and was a very talented tattoo artist. It was said that Tony was too smart for his own good and was very creative and funny, there was never a dull moment with him. Tony loved the Lord.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jerry and Wanda Foster; his maternal grandfather, John Destrini; stepfather, Mike Portwood; uncles, Rick Foster, Anthony Delagarza; aunt, Brenda Foster; great-uncle, Carl Foster; and by his great-aunt, Nettie Cross. He is survived by his grandmother, Latitia Delagarza; his mother, Teresa Destrini; father, Terry Foster; brothers, Joshua Foster, Tilman Portwood; sister, Angela Foster; nephew, Xavier Benson; uncles and aunts, Charlotte Walker of Mena, Arkansas, Lynn Foster of Mena, Arkansas; Stan and Candy Foster of Mena, Arkansas, Hector Delagarza of Tucson, Arizona, Sheila and Mike Hicks of Mineral Springs, Arkansas, Laura and Chris Fusci of Tucson, Arizona; Andrea Destrini of Tucson, Arizona; and J.D. Destrini of Tucson, Arizona; great-uncle, Eddie Cross; great-aunts; Donna Cogburn, Annie Schuller; special friends; Jeremy and Melanie James, Sean and Savannah McCauley, Jody Carter, Thomas and Amy Hendershot, Indio Hendershot, Country Hendershot, Crystal and Colt Dehart, and Kelly Smith; as well as a host of other family and friends too great to mention.

Services for Tony Foster will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 30, 2022, at BeasleyWood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Tim Skaggs officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment

will follow at Brushy Cemetery in Oden, Arkansas. There will be a formal visitation one hour prior to service time.

Pallbearers are Tilman Portwood, Joshua Foster, Derrick Bethel, Rodney Jones, Micheal Jones, and Sean McCauley.

Honorary Pallbearers are Terry Foster and Kevin Benson.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Dennis Paul Loyd

Mr. Dennis Paul Loyd, age 74, passed away peacefully at his home in Texarkana, Arkansas, on April 22, 2022, after a courageously fought battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born July 3, 1947, in Wenatchee, Washington, to Paul Loyd Jr. and Helen Whale Loyd who preceded him in death, as well as a brother, Donald Ray Loyd.

He was known as a remarkable guy with a great personality and a great sense of humor always smiling and making people laugh.

He never met a stranger and loved going to First Assembly of God Church in Hooks, Texas for the last 32 years. Prior to that time,

Pleasant Grove Nazarene Church in Cove, Arkansas.

He served in the USAF and was very proud of his Choctaw heritage. He worked at Lone Star Steel in Daingerfield, Texas, as an overhead crane operator and later at Red River Army Depot as an inventory clerk in Hooks, Texas, where he retired.

He leaves behind his devoted wife Darlene Loyd of 32 years; 3 children, Sherry Lynn Loyd, James Burton Parsons and wife Donna, and Kim Parsons Brown and husband Tim; grandchildren, Nathaniel James Brown, Audriana Jane Brown (Papaw’s girl, he called her A.J.) and Ashley Parsons; 2 great-grandsons, Noah and Jacob; one sister, Janice Dusseldorp; a special uncle, Leon Loyd; and a host of other family and friends.

Services for Mr. Loyd will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 28, 2022, at The Pleasant Grove Nazarene Church in Cove, Arkansas. Reverend Louis Smith and Reverend Steve Bradley will be officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Interment will follow at the Baker Cemetery in Wickes, Arkansas. There will be a formal visitation one hour prior to the service.

Pallbearers are Roger Wilson, Kendall Wilson, Donny Loyd, Travis Miller, Dennis Rowe, and Melvin Parker.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Complete Up-to-Date Obituaries at

MYPULSENEWS.COM

8 Letters

April 27, 2022

Your Pulse!

Letter to the Editor

One year ago, the wife and I retired to Mena after having lived in a suburb of Des Moines, Iowa, for over 5 decades.

We owned a small business providing good paying jobs for 15 people including ourselves. In addition, I am a Veteran.

We moved here for a number of reasons: the beauty of the land, low taxes, great recreation. The fiercely independent attitude of the people is in sync with our attitude in so many ways. That explains the large number of Veterans, almost 9% of the population, that have chosen to live here. You already know the bounty this area offers if it is what you seek. It’s truly a jewel in so many ways.

We bought a house that had been on the market for well over a year. It had been vacant for many years before that.

We completely remodeled it, a process taking over 6 months. During that time, we spent a considerable amount of money purchasing labor and goods from local sources. From lawn equipment, plumbers, carpenters, painters to insurance, gas, food, all required a viable business employing local citizens. We know some contractors had to hire additional help to do the work we required. My elderly parents live with us. They require occasional health care assistance. This demands highly skilled people to provide.

The money we used for all this was NEW MONEY, meaning we took our money from Iowa and invested it here.

Now look at this most recent census data: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/ polkcountyarkansas Census total for Polk County 2021 versus 2010 show a LOSS of 1,309 people.

Census data for Mena shows a LOSS of 148. These numbers show decline, not growth. In a healthy community, the majority of property taxes are paid for by the commercial sector, and Mena has very little of that, leaving a large financial burden on the residents. These costs will continue to skyrocket and our tax bills will increase. There is no other way to approach it. This is just to maintain the status quo. With so many on a fixed income, this can quickly destroy a family.

Polk County is less than 20K people, a quarter live in Mena. Under the ECONOMY heading, the total labor force for the entire county is 52%. These are the people that provide those services all

of us use. Over 1,700 of us are Veterans, many retired and moved here. Every month, those of us who are retired bring money from outside sources here to Mena, to spend.

This is incredibly important. It is OUTSIDE MONEY, new money, not recirculated local money. Communities all over America strive for this scenario, and Mena has a good deal of it coming in already. We advertise ourselves as a place for tourists to come and spend their money. The potential for far more exists with the legalization of alcohol sales in Polk County.

We live on 8E headed out of town and love to sit on our porch watch the traffic go by. What we first noticed is the incredible number of vehicles headed in and out of Mena towing boats, campers, and especially 4 wheelers headed for Wolf Pen. The growth in that area is stunning.

In a single 15-minute period on a Sunday morning we counted 21 tow vehicles towing 4 wheelers, most of them carrying multiple ATV’s. At peak times, we’re sure that number is in the hundreds per hour.

It isn’t constant, but it is steady. Look at the gas stations and convenience stores, parking lots often packed with them buying local goods and services. Almost every one of these vehicles carry out of state tags, mostly from Texas. Again, it’s NEW MONEY, outside money. Why should we deny Polk County a source of revenue to be used here and have it paid for by Texans? The tourism aspect allows for these people to come, enjoy, see this beautiful area, spend their money and then leave. As they leave, another group of tourists arrive and the circle continues.

Again, NEW MONEY. Selling alcohol has the potential to provide growth in town with more restaurants which brings a variety of cultural dishes we can all enjoy. Look at all the boarded up businesses in town. I am quite sure, some of these would be restaurants. We have a large number of gift shops who would directly benefit from increased foot traffic as well. Restaurants and bars would create a night life of entertainment that doesn’t exist in this area. We’d love to be able to go out a night to a local bar and hear live music like we used to.

These are social gathering spots for people to enjoy. It’s part of what tourists go to

experience when traveling. We offer very little of that. More money lost. Not selling alcohol doesn’t stop anybody from drinking, but it does deprive the community from a very large source of outside money including increased commercial taxation from successful local businesses.

In many ways, the changes most of America has experienced over the past 50 years, have passed Mena by, or just packed up and left. We see the boarded up storefronts, abandoned houses, empty factories. We see the young graduate, then leave, seeking greater opportunities than exist here. These are massive failures of the entire community on so many levels. In the end, they lie directly on the doorsteps of those who refuse to accept new ideas and fight change. For those who say, it’s always been good enough before and it’s good enough now, I have to ask, what are YOUR plans for Mena?

A fundamental rule of Economics 101 says you grow, or you die. Mena is not growing.

There is a percentage of poverty here that shocks us. It’s far beyond that from where we moved from. Over 18%, almost 1 out of every 5, are at the poverty level. Per capita income is just $24K a year here while the AVERAGE for Arkansas as a whole is $47K! That number in itself is mind boggling. What it is saying in pure terms, is one can almost double their income by seeking their fortunes, and future elsewhere.

If you don’t think potential new businesses looking to move to Mena don’t seriously consider the ability to draw employees, then ask the Chamber of Commerce. The total aspects a community offers are very important, one of the first considerations on their list. That doesn’t really exist here. They want a location where more people are moving to than moving away from.

Why don’t the young stay? They want the new cars, the ability to make a good living and raise a family. Those jobs are hard to find in Mena. We see Facebook ads of people selling items for $5 stating they “really need the money”. That alone is heartbreaking and totally unnecessary.

From an economic standpoint, going wet wins every single point. The benefits, the opportunities far outweigh the risks.

I recently read an opinion piece in this paper full of scare tactics and hyperbole. Going wet will bring increased crime.

There will be “wino’s publicly urinating in the streets and lying in their own vomit”. We might even end up with a casino,

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse prostitutes, and an opium den! All of this because the law abiding citizens of Polk County were foolish enough to want to buy alcohol legally The letter was full of vastly exaggerated statements and not a single piece of factual information was offered to back it up. This issue needs to be discussed on the FACTS regarding both sides, not borderline hysteria. It did nothing to address the positive economic impact and how many lives could be bettered by the increased revenue. It was all doom and gloom.

Life has taught me you can’t help somebody who doesn’t want help, but you can help those who want it. Do you think these people living in poverty want to be there? What have these “dry county” supporters done, or are doing, to help create a scenario where these 18% can help themselves out of the terrible hole they are in? Data shows that attitude has done nothing, or very little at best.

A single good paying job can take a person from having very little, to giving them hope, and a way to WORK their way out of it. I personally know of a couple, small business owners, who are packing up and leaving Mena after having lived here all their lives. The economic scenario they require doesn’t exist any longer for them. Add 2 more to the population loss.

The writer also spoke of “I am a Believer.” So am I, so is my wife. I don’t drink, she enjoys a glass of wine from time to time, as do thousands of others here in Polk County. We are known as the “wettest dry county in Arkansas.” People here are buying alcohol, that’s not going to change just as prohibition didn’t stop alcohol use or sales. It’s just going to be bought elsewhere and we get left with the empty cans. How many people out there denounce legal alcohol sales, yet enjoy a sip in their own home?

As a Christian, a Constitutional Conservative, and a Veteran, I firmly believe in our GOD-given right in America, to CHOOSE what we feel is best for us. I also believe in personal responsibility. I resent being told what I can or can’t do or how to live my life, by others who seem to think they know what’s in my best interests.

Let’s discuss this issue, but let’s be rational and use FACTS, not emotion.

Please sign one of the petition ballots.

They have check boxes on them so you can be FOR or AGAINST this initiative.

Lynn & Susan Cowden, Mena

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson 50 people celerbrated Earth Day by hanging out around their houses and sipping moonshine from Mumford Pickens’ solar-powered still. The rest of the town was busy working Friday.

Hardy Barkins said, “My Grandpappy did his part for Earth Day. He reduced his carbon footprint and limited his emissions by not eating beans.”

Maude and Freddy’s Come-OnGive-Us-One-More-Chance Diner had a Friday special called The Low Carbon Footprint. All the raw organic vegetables you can eat for 10 dollars. Course, it lost the spirit of the day when it come in plastic disposable bowls with plastic silverware. There weren’t no napkins, but Freddy wandered through the dining room wearing a long sleeve flannel shirt.

The real reason that we keep trying to clean up this world, is cause many years

April 27, 2022

Hogspore News:

Earth Day in Hogspore

ago, two yahoos ate an apple.

The Barbershop Think Tank was laughing about another Florida Man story where a FL feller challenged an alligator to a foot race.

The gator won the race by two feet.

Then he continued to eat the rest of the body. So, the barbershop boys started making up ideas to show Florida Culture: The Miami District Attorney offers A Plea O’ the Day. You can spot drug dealers by the signs on the side of the car, “We Need 100’s.” Never trust a feller sleepwalking carrying a chain saw. It takes two to Tango, but merely one to whack the Argentinean band leader. If a tidal wave is coming, thousands of folks would start running … toward the beach since Tsunami in Florida means, “Surfs Up!” The mob runs Homeowners’ Associ-

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WWW.GLENNAIRECONSTRUCTION.COM

FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION WE’LL BRING IT HOME!

ations. Older Floridians don’t evacuate before a hurricane; they only evacuate after a laxative. For ten thousand dollars a year, AAA can add coverage for a mobile home. If your prefab palace blows away in a hurricane, then AAA will tow it back to the original concrete slab. If the mobile home park, (They’re not trailer parks anymore cept if nomadic carnies live in them), is now an underwater artificial reef, then AAA will tow the rambling roost out to sea and sink it. You can spot the artificial reef cause there’s schools of artifish-shellfish living in it.

Mumford Pickens says, “To help the earth and family farms, remember to buy Local from a Yokel.”

Contact at Bobsimpson1947@yahoo. com. You know you wanna.

Humor 9

10 News

THE POLK COUNTY

April 27, 2022

City of Mena spring clean-up Submitted by the City of Mena REMINDER: The City of Mena Annual Spring Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, May 3. City trucks will pick up items you want to dispose of at no charge. This Clean-up service is free for residences within the city limits of Mena only.

Please follow the below listed regulations to ensure that the pick-up runs smoothly.

Materials will not be picked up unless they are placed at the curb-side and separated.

Street Department personnel can not go onto private property to assist in moving items. However, the Crossing Church will have volunteers available on April 30 and May 1 to help senior adults needing assistance in moving items to the curb. Please call the

trash cans.

The following items cannot be picked up: concrete, brick, rocks, dirt, shingles, batteries, and construction debris.

Please separate your items to be discarded into 5 distinct piles as follows: 1. Furniture--couches, chairs, televisions, window frames, etc.

2. Household trash-paper items, etc.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse) (Please place trash Crossing Church at (479) 394-7600 in cans, that you wish advance to place your name on their to keep, to one side so that they will list. not be disposed of inadvertentIt is very important to separate any ly) items that you want to keep away from 3. Metal material--hot water heatthose that are to be discarded, such as

Pulse

ers, stoves, appliances, etc.

4. Yard waste--tree limbs, shrubs, grass, etc.

5. Tires Note - it is required that all small yard debris, such as small limbs, gum balls, leaves and grass, be placed in garbage bags.

The Mena Street Department will begin pick up in the northwest part of the city and work their way across town following the same routes as Southern Disposal. Trucks will run one to three days after the day of your normal trash pick-up. The response to this Clean-Up is usually overwhelming, so please be patient if the trucks are running somewhat behind the posted schedule; however, each route will only be covered one time. It is not necessary to call City Hall in order to receive this service.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

Around Town The Owens Chapel Cemetery Spring Cleanup week will be May 1st through the 7th.

Decoration day will be May 8. The Annual Public Meeting will be the first Sunday of December at 2 p.m. at the cemetery. Public welcome.

The Polk County Growth & Advancement Committee meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at The Ouachitas located at 821 Mena Street. All interested community members are invited to attend.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has re-opened. All meals and activities have reverted to their original schedules. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 3852373.

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m., Monday; at 7 p.m., Thursday; at 7 p.m. Friday; and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at (479) 216-7249.

The FFA will be holding their first Annual Dinner and Auction, April 30. Members are raffling a handmade FFA quilt, made by Tiny Campbell of Hatfield. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10.

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 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) 2163786.

Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room behind Janssen Ave. Florist, 800 Janssen Ave. Starting at 7 - 10 p.m. Come “Pick-N-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome.

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.

For more information, call (479) 437-4018.

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.

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center is putting together a bean bag baseball team and celebrating our seniors birthdays every 3rd Tuesday of the month.

The Center will be having a breakfast fundraiser Saturday, May 14, 8:30-9 a.m., for the cost of a donation. Breakfast will be pick-up or dine-in. Contact Trena Hodge with questions, (479) 394-5459.

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.

Fourche Mountains May Day First picnic sing-a-long and Maypole. Everyone is welcome to the family-friendly event brought to you by the Ouachita Collaborative Cultivators, Sunday, May 1, noon-3 p.m. at McMillan Park in Mena.

There will be a potluck picnic and free catered dish.

Bring a dish if you’d like. We will wrap a Maypole.

Bring an instrument and folk song lyrics to pass around for those who want to join in.

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 Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8 p.m.

Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call 479-243-0297.

GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10 a.m. - noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Ouachita Little Theatre will hold its annual membership meeting May 11, 5 p.m. at the OLT. The meeting is for all members. In addition to reports, there will be an election of new officers and a vote on changes in the OLT constitution. Please note, this is a new meeting date.

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!

Community 11

12 Education

April 27, 2022

Mena School board April meeting

Submitted by Mena Public girls from 46 schools across the state of Arkansas attended. The Schools girls met some amazing women The Mena Public Schools who work in STEAM fields and Board Meeting for the month of enjoyed fun activities.

Dr. Lee Smith continued with April was held on Tuesday, April 19, at the Administration Build- his superintendent’s report and stated that he expects to suging.

The meeting began with a gest a $1,200 raise in base pay presentation by Mena Middle for all certified personnel plus a School students Allison Howard 2% to 3% increase for classified and Bre Crider. They are both a personnel. After a few final depart of the Girls of Promise at tails are completed, those raises MMS and were accompanied by should be ready for the board to their sponsor Mrs. Tiffany Lutt- ratify at the May meeting.

Smith also reported that he had mer. They spoke on their recent experience at the annual Girls of met with the district’s construcPromise Conference at the Ar- tion manager, C.R. Crawford, kansas 4-H Center! Eighth grade about the proposed outdoor pa-

vilions to be built on each campus. With an optimistic goal of having those completed by the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year. They also discussed the development of a feasibility study in regards to updates the district would like to make at Holly Harshman Elementary and Mena Middle School as well as a concession building on the visitor’s side at Bearcat Stadium and a multipurpose building.

He then updated the board on turf replacement at Bearcat Stadium. That project is scheduled to begin on May 27 with the paving of the “D” zones to follow.

Smith concluded his report by asking the board to approve the purchase of two mats for the new wrestling program with reimbursement expected through a philanthropic gift to the district.

That purchase was approved.

The board next voted to join the Perkins Consortium with the De Queen Mena Education Service Cooperative. The co-op will manage the distribution of funds in the career and technical programs.

Maintenance supervisor Danny Minton then updated those in attendance on projects that are underway. He stated that the installation of the new central heat and air units is almost complete at Holly Harshman Elementary and Mena Middle School. As well as the ioniza-

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse tion machines at LD. Plans for summer projects are now being made including knob and lock replacement at MMS and an extension of the sidewalk on the south end of Bearcat Stadium.

Minton concluded by asking the board to approve the purchase of a new Exmark industrial mower from Gilchrist Tractor in Mena for $14,159.25. That was the lowest of three bids and the board approved.

The board then approved the financial reports after Dr. Smith informed them that revenue and expenditures have been normal for this time of year, and he expects to finish the year on target.

Finally, in personnel the board accepted the resignation of Randi Brown from the position of pre-K paraprofessional.

Isaac Minton who taught MMS Health/PE/Jr. Boys Basketball and Abby Grace Minton an Alternative Education Paraprofessional at MMS. The board approved the restructuring of contracts for MMS Custodian Mitch Milne from 12 months to nine months.

Shanda Craig from HHE Science to a new position as Student Success Planner and Holli Plunkett from LDE second grade to MHS Library/Media Specialist.

New hires included Megan Auer to LDE Kindergarten, Anna Schauble and Georgia Weil as HHE Teachers.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

Education 13

Acorn High School names delegates for Arkansas Boys State and Girls State Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Each year, representatives from around Arkansas serve as delegates for Arkansas American Legion Boys State and Arkansas American Legion Auxiliary Girls State.

This year, the Acorn High School representatives for each program will be AHS junior Paige Parnell for the Arkansas Girls State and AHS junior Reed McGee for the Arkansas Boys State.

Parnell will attend Arkansas Girls

Paige Parnell will represent the Arkansas American Legion Auxiliary Girls State as a delegate on the Harding campus. (submitted photo)

Reed McGee will represent the Arkansas American Legion Boys State as a delegate on the UCA campus. (submitted photo)

The transformative programs engage high school juniors in civics education through mock governmental processes and develop leaders through civic responsibility.

State on the Harding University campus in Searcy.

McGee will attend Arkansas Boys State on the University of Central Arkansas campus in Conway.

CRHS senior Josey Johnston signed her letter of intent, April 20, to continue her rodeo career as a member of the Southern Arkansas University Rodeo Team.

Johnston is pictured with her mother, Jessica Duggan, and SAU Rodeo Team Head Coach, Rusty Hayes.

(Photo courtesy of CRSD Superintendent Tyler Broyles)

Cossatot River High School Choirs to present spring concert The Cossatot River High School choral department will present their spring concert, “Feelin’ Groovy: Hits of the 70’s,” on Thursday, April 28, in the Holbert Auditorium in Wickes, Arkansas.

The concert will be divided into two separate performances.

Beginning the night will be the seventh and eighth grade Jr. High Eagle choirs at 6 p.m.

The second concert of the evening will be at 7 p.m. and feature the senior high all-girls choir, Cantabile, the senior high advanced group, Encore, and the senior high mixed choir, Noteworthy. Jeremiah Brewer and Marissa Hammer will be guest accompanists for Encore.

End-of-the-year choir awards will be given, and senior choir

members will be recognized.

The Rachel Norman Memorial Choir Scholarship recipient will also be announced and awarded.

2022 Choir Seniors are Cole Brantley, Baylee Davis, Marissa Hammer, Maggie Haynes, Clayton Thompson, Kayleigh Williams, Alyssa Wilson, Elorie Hopper, Cora Morgan, Gracie Smith, Kalli Smith, Lyla Baker, Kali Blake, JT Miller, LaBrayla Robb, Brynleigh Smith, Shayna Bowen, and Brendan Tadlock.

Cossatot River High School choirs are under the direction of Susan Brewer.

Come out April 28 to hear outstanding performances from music of the ‘70s.

14

April 27, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

Teeter Motor Company is the newest member of the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held in their honor on Friday, April 15. Teeter Motor Company is located at 1201 Hwy. 71 in Mena.

(Photo courtesy of the Mena/Polk Chamber of Commerce)

News 15

16 Faith

By Richie Lawry Bob and Leo stood in front of their shop, watching the sunset spread across the western sky. The yellow ball of fire changed to hues of red blended with oranges, purples, and crimsons. The workday was over, and the business they owned, Tri-Town-Service, was closed for the day. But the workday seemed never to be over. They were getting into their 1953 Studebaker pickup and heading from Frederick to Denver.

They had vehicles that they needed to bring home.

Each month Bob and Leo attended the Denver Police impound auction.

The City of Denver would auction off impounded vehicles. They sold the cars in lots of 20, with the high bidder buying all 20 cars. All the vehicles purchased had to be removed from the impound lot before the next sale. Bob and Leo had quite a few cars that they needed to get back to the shop, but they could do it only after they had closed for the day.

They planned to put one car on a tow bar behind the six-cylinder Studebaker pickup and see if they could get one of the cars to run to drive it home. On this trip, Bob’s daddy, Ben, was going along.

They were going to have Ben steer a car on a chain behind the Studebaker and the car it was towing.

When they arrived at the impound lot, they were able to get an old Mercury started. Bob attached a tow bar between the Mercury and a Buick while Leo hooked his tow bar up to another Buick. By the time they had hooked up and were ready to leave, it was late in the night. The Mercury wasn’t running very well, so Bob said to Leo, “I will go first in the Mercury, so if I have any trouble, you will be behind me and able to help.”

April 27, 2022

An Arkie’s Faith The little Studebaker

T h e Mercury w a s sputtering away in the lead with a Buick b e hind on a Can you be like the little Studebaker? (Photo courtesy of Richie Lawry) t o w Mercury was towing. He then slowbar. Next came Leo in the six-cylinly accelerated, and the whole group der pickup with another Buick in tow, picked up speed. Pushing the Mercufollowed by Ben, in an old Chevrolet, ry and the Buick, and pulling anothpulled on a chain. They were quite er Buick and the Chevrolet, the little a sight as they left the impound lot six-cylinder Studebaker made it the around 1 o’clock. rest of the way home. Leo claimed that They headed home under the sumhe drove in high gear and even shifted mer night sky luminous with starlight the Studebaker into overdrive. and a full moon. Traffic was light on Do you ever feel that, like the litthe Valley Highway, and the little group tle Studebaker, you are pulling more made their way quickly down the road. than your weight? I know that many of Bob had hoped that the Mercury would us think that way. When we are pullsmooth out and run better while driving more than our weight, it can drag ing, but that didn’t happen. It began to us down. The little Studebaker made run worse instead of better. When they it home, even with four other vehicles were still over 10 miles away from their depending on it. But the Studebaker shop, the Mercury’s engine sputtered, wouldn’t hold up under long-term use then stopped. Bob tried to start it again, like that. The website How Stuff Works but the Mercury was done for the night. says, “Although you may not see the Bob was still on the highway, moving effects of exceeding towing capacity slowly. He put his arm out the window at first, the gradual wear and tear will and motioned for Leo to pull up. Leo lead to eventual failure. The best-case downshifted to first gear and pulled scenario is repeated trips to the repair forward until the bumper of his Studeshop; the worst is a major wreck.” I baker pickup tapped the Buick that the think that it can be the same way with

Joke of the Week:

I was trying to learn how to spell inconsequential but then I realized it wasn’t important.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

us. The gradual wear and tear can be detrimental.

I have a customer who always seems to care for her extended family. When she came by to pay for another family member’s windshield, I told her that I noticed she was always taking care of someone. She appreciated that I saw she was pulling more than her weight.

When we carry someone else’s heavy loads, we are doing what God has asked us to do. “Carry one another’s heavy loads. If you do, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 (NIRV) Often, others have heavy loads that are too big to bear alone. They don’t have enough strength, resources, or knowledge to carry the load, and they need our help. Doing for others what they can’t do for themselves shows them the love of Jesus.

On the other hand, Galatians 6:5 (NIV) says that “Each one should carry their own load.” God wants us to carry one another’s heavy loads, but that doesn’t mean that we should be a burden to others by not being responsible.

The Bible ideal is that you help me with my heavy loads, and I help you with yours.

Gentle Reader, the story of the little Studebaker is true, and the names have not been changed. Bob is my daddy; Leo is my cousin, and Ben is my grandpa. On that night in Colorado, the little Studebaker pushed and pulled four cars for over 10 miles.

When situations arise and people need your help, be like the little Studebaker. But you don’t have to do it alone.

Psalm 55:22 (MSG) says, “Pile your troubles on GOD’s shoulders— he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out.”

“Cast all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (MEV) Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

Give Richie a call at 479-3949938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South

April 27, 2022 History Pulse Reflections from History & Faith: Celebrating the zipper THE POLK COUNTY

by Jeff Olson

Yes, you are reading this correctly. This week we recognize an invention which should be near and dear to just about every one of us—the zipper. While it could be argued that there are more interesting subjects from America’s history to remember this week, we would be hard-pressed to find one that has contributed more to our daily lives. Like you, I have never known life without this handy little device and have always taken it for granted— not giving it much thought other than enjoying its convenience and utility in helping us keep things together... So, it’s time that we give this mechanical wonder its due recognition through a brief look at its history.

Elias Howe, an American mechanic and machinist who invented the sewing machine, originally birthed the idea and received a patent in 1851 for an Automatic, Continuous Clothing Closure.

Perhaps because of the success of the sewing machine, he didn’t pursue marketing or improving his closure device any further.

In 1893, Whitcomb Judson, an American machine salesman and mechanical engineer from Chicago, and an inventor of the Pneumatic Street Railway, patented a Clasp Locker (later known as the Judson C-curity Fastener), a complicated hook-and-eye shoe fastener. Its public debut was at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. In 1894 Judson launched the Univer-

Whitcomb Judson - salesman, mechanical engineer and inventor (Photo courtesy of Jeff Olson)

sal Fastener Company to manufacture his invention, but he met with little commercial success.

Being first to market, Whitcomb got credit for being the “inventor of the zipper.” However, his 1893 patent did not use the word zipper.

In 1906, electrical engineer Gideon Sundback went to work for the Universal Fastener Company where he became the head designer. He made several advances in the development of the fastener, building upon the previous work of Howe and Judson.

Sundback’s first patent for the “Hookless Fastener” (Hookless #1) was issued 109 years ago this week, April 29, 1913.

After more improvements, he amended his first patent for the

“Separable Fastener” (Hookless #2) in March 1917.

Sundback also created the manufacturing machine for the new fastener. This final model is recognized as the first modern zipper, though the name zipper wasn’t officially registered until 1925 when the B.F. Goodrich Company used the device on their new boots (galoshes).

Early on, gloves and tobacco pouches were the primary uses for zippers. One of its first customers was the U.S. Army, which applied zippers to the clothing and gear of the troops of World War I. Within the next 30 years, zippers would

Gideon Sundback- electrical engineer and inventor of the modern zipper.

(Photo courtesy of Jeff Olson)

17

achieve wide acceptance in the garment and fashion industries, initially for the flies of trousers and openings of skirts and dresses. Today, there are three main types of zippers used in a multitude of products which have contributed to the daily lives of millions of people around the world.

In 2006, Gideon Sundback was honored by induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame for his work in the development and production of the zipper.

So—the next time we zip and unzip our pants, jacket, tent, duffle bag, purse, gun case, life-preserving device, or perhaps leave our “fly” or “barn door” open, we now know who to thank for good old-fashioned American perseverance, ingenuity, and even some occasional humor.

As comedian George Burns (1896-1996) once quipped in referring to the aging process,“First you forget names, then you forget faces. Next you forget to pull your zipper up and finally, you forget to pull it down.”

18 Police

April 18, 2022 Richard Ducote, 46 of Mena was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole on a Body Attachment.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a theft.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 44 near Mena in reference to a violation of an order of protection.

April 19, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 178 near Acorn in reference to a theft.

Kimberly Williams, 35 of Royal was arrested on a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant.

April 20, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to an MVA leading to the arrest of Brittney Whitworth, 33 of Benton on charges of DWI and Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test.

Robert Wallis, 41 of Cove was arrested on a warrant for Criminal Trespass and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree.

April 21, 2022 Trae Clouse, 30 of Mena was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole on a Felony Warrant for Probation Violation.

Deputies responded to a walk-in

Pulse

April 27, 2022

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

complainant in reference to a stolen firearm.

April 22, 2022 Tommy Black, 48 of Boles was arrested on a Felony Probation Violation Warrant.

Walmart.

A report of disorderly conduct A theft report was taken from was taken at a residence on Lisa Walmart.

Way. A theft report was taken from a A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant. walk-in complainant.

A report of disorderly conduct April 18 was taken from a walk-in comAn harassment report was taken plainant. from a person at Walmart.

Alivia Harper, 18, was charged April 23 with Possession of Marijuana and Shawn Long, 45, and Rebekah Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Stanley, 38, were both served with a after a traffic stop on Mena Street. warrant at Executive Inn. A report of child neglect was takApril 19 en from a walk-in complainant.

Stephen Corney, 33, was charged A report of theft was taken at a with Driving on Suspended and No residence on Rogers Avenue.

Liability Insurance after a traffic stop on Highway 71 A report of harassment was taken from a walk-in complainant.

April 23, 2022 Heather Hilderbrand was issued a citation for Interference with Emergency Communications after an incident in the jail.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 24 near Cove in reference to a disturbance. Information has been forwarded to the April 20 Prosecuting Attorney for further Tyler Cornelius, 28, was charged consideration. with Battery after a disturbance call to a residence on Church Street.

April 24, 2022 Daryl Ray, 38, was charged with No reports filed.

Disorderly Conduct after a disturbance call to the Northside ShopPolk County Sheriff ’s Office ping Center. worked 0 vehicle accidents this week.

April 21 Polk County Detention Center Joshua McLellan, 49, was charged Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated In- with Disorderly Conduct and Crimmates, with 12 Inmates currently on inal Mischief after a disturbance call the Waiting List for a State Facility. on Church Street.

Daryl Ray, was charged with Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Trespass and Fleeing after a disturbance call to Northside Laundromat.

April 17 Andrew Stewart, 21, was charged April 22 with DWI 2, Refusal to Submit to A report of theft was taken from a Chemical Test, and Driving on Sus- walk-in complainant. pended License after contact on A report of criminal trespass was Highway 71. taken at a residence on Church A theft report was taken from Street.

MENA POLICE REPORTS

Fatal accident in Polk County

By Patrick Massey

A single-vehicle accident in Polk County resulted in the death of an Ashdown woman and the hospitalization of a De Queen man on the evening of April 19.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 21-year-old Jessica Mann of Ashdown was traveling westbound on Polk Road 26 near Hatfield when her 2004 GMC Envoy left the roadway and struck a tree head-on. The accident occurred around 8:25 p.m.

Mann was pronounced dead at the scene by Polk County deputy coroner Garrett Lundberg. A 27-yearold De Queen man, identified in the report as Andy Arce, was also in the vehicle and transported by private party to the Mena Regional Medical Center, according to the state police.

The investigating state trooper reported road conditions as clear and dry at the time of the accident.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Classifieds 19

April 27, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204.

T0427

- WANTED TO BUY -

I buy broken desktops and laptops.

Mitchell Computer Services, 717 Mena St. T0608

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.

T0601 Land Management, Tree Service, RC Customz can handle your construction needs, mulching and more. Military discounts available. Insured. Call (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

T0427 Jeremiah’s lawn care. Friendly service & reasonable rates. Call (479) 394-7599.T0427 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

T0427 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0427

WANTED YOUR ADVERTISEMENT TO BE PLACED IN 8000 COPIES OF A FREE WEEKLY PAPER AND DISTRIBUTED TO 200 LOCATIONS IN AND AROUND POLK COUNTY. CONTACT THE POLK AT

479.243.9600

- EMPLOYMENT Preacher Wanted Christ’s Church Cove wants a preacher to fill in twice per month. For information, call Larry at (405) 406-4727 T0427 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.

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.

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.

COUNTY PULSE

Polk County Births

CORRECTION:

Rhyen & Colton Hendricks of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born April 9th

The April 20, 2022, edition of the Pulse stated in the article Polk County Growth and Advancement petitioning for alcohol, “To qualify to sign the petitions, you must be registered to vote, and have voted in the last four years.”

It should have read, “You must be a valid registered voter in Polk County, to sign the petition, but it is not necessary to have previously voted.”

Mena Regional Health System APRIL 8, 2022 TO APRIL 22, 2022

Jessica & Levi Ellison of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born April 18th Cheyenne Himes of Waldron, Arkansas is the proud parent of a baby girl born April 21st

THRIFTY THURSDAY CHIQUITA’S

$5 FOOD SERVICE FOR $3

BAYWASH CAR WASH $10 CAR WASH FOR $5

WENDY’S

LARGE BREAKFAST BACONATOR COMBO FOR $5

THE SHOP

$45 UNLIMITED TANNING FOR $25

Listen EVERY Thursday Morning

For More Info Call 479-243-9600

20 Puzzles

April 27, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

04.27.22

04.27.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 04.20.22

KEEBLER NEEDS A LOVING HOME JUST LIKE YOURS! This kitty is mostly orange with white. He is good with cats. Keebler is litter box trained. He would love a birthday party in August (08/18/2015).

KEEBLER IS A KEEPER! 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.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Sports 21

April 27, 2022

Acorn’s Earth Day includes fishing Earth Day included a fishing derby as part of the activities for Acorn fifth and sixth graders. Several students, both boys and girls, converged on Janssen Park, the sixth graders at the start of the school day, then the fifth graders after lunch, casting their lines for a chance to hook over 200 catfish the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC) released for the event. Each grade was allowed an hour-and-a-half to two hours of fishing and park clean-up.

Toby Hollin is the fifth and sixth grade science teacher at Acorn. She is also the FINS (Fishing in the Natural State Program) coordinator for Acorn schools, and set the derby up, along with the assistance of fifth and sixth grade math teacher Kylynn Ledbetter.

Ledbetter said, “She did most of the dirty work,” laughing as she referenced Hollin “I just showed up to help with the kids.”

FINS was created in 2016 for use in any Arkansas school. It is the most recent evolution of the award-winning “Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs” program.

According to the AGFC website, the primary focus is on grades four-12, but the program can also accommodate civic clubs and organizations. Although the primary goal of the program is to create lifelong anglers, the curriculum provided to schools includes eight units covering fish and fishing, ecology, habitats, and the human impact on the environment. These lessons can be used in any type of classroom including, but not limited to science, math, English and physical education.

Hollin said, “It’s basically the same type of program they’ve done before.

They’ve built on it and done some different things. We’re hoping to make this an annual thing for our program.”

AGFC is striving to instill a culture of conservation and stewardship in our school-age population. Each applicant is asked to complete at least one conservation program through the year and sponsor a fishing derby. To help accomplish these goals, a FINS kit is provided. The

kit includes rods and reels, tackle, and a classroom set of various support materials. FINS Program participants are also eligible to apply for Wildlife Education Grant funds (use of fine revenue.) Funds may be used by educators to purchase any needed supplies and equipment as

Acorn sixth grader Karson Mowdy with his fourth catch of the day. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

well as take students on field trips to AGFC Nature Centers, Conservation Education Centers and Wildlife Management Areas.

Other teachers, such as science teacher Kathy Rusert, were on hand to assist the children, as well as AGFC employees, and a few parents.

Bradley Garner set up a filleting station beside his TnA’s Towing and Recovery truck. Garner’s family also run the Heath Valley Campground on Polk County 61, which has a fishing pond on the grounds.

Hollin said, “I think we’re thinking of doing it there next year. He has such a big set up and there’s no chance of anyone coming in that’s not with our group.

It’s pretty nice.”

Sometimes when fish are released for a

derby, generally the day before an event, there are some people who will sneak in and fish at night before the children get a chance. Hollin said she contacted Mena Mayor Seth Smith. “He set it up and had it taken care of where nobody could fish or anything before we got here. Wes Kent [park superintendent] has been amazing to help us.”

Smith was in attendance as the children encircled the pond, casting their lines.

Some children were having no luck, many losing their stink bait or hot dog chunks while casting. Others fished with a lure. Many lines were entangled and snarled with bobbers wrapped around one another.

“They’re having to figure out how to untie them theirselves, mostly,” Hollin said. “They actually rigged the poles up in class. They’ve done the pole set up and help me cut the bait. We’ve done all of it together.”

Their were some parents on-hand to assist with the tangles. Typical of a kid’s fishing derby, the parents can assist in casting the line, but are not allowed to do much else that is hands on. They simply supervise and advise.

Several kids were having good luck, some catching a single catfish weighing somewhere between 1-3 pounds, and others catching three or four catfish. For some children, this was the first fish they had ever caught.

“We will do in-class prizes with some FINS prizes for the most caught. They’ll end up with some bait, tackle, or things

like that,” Hollin said.

The event is an exercise in doing more outdoor activities, which the Acorn schools have plenty of experience with.

Hollin explained, “The majority of what we do in our science class is outside because we have and outdoor classroom.

This kind of goes in play with that. We also had Casey Hardaway of Game and Fish come, and we did trout dissections.”

Hardaway is the southwest regional educator for AGFC, based out of Columbus, Arkansas near Millwood Lake.

“We have about 80% of our [kids] who have fished before because they’ve done this derby,” Hollin said. “Without this derby, we would not have had nearly the amount of kids who have gone fishing.

I think today, I’ve only got three in this group who have not. In my fifth-grade group, there’s a few more kids who are newer students.”

“Our biggest thing is to get them out and get them doing something that’s not a video game or electronic. The only time I have seen electronics today is when they’ve taken pictures of the fish.”

Following each event, students made sure to pick up the paper cups holding their bait and any other litter The general public was allowed to fish once the derby finished.

Besides derbies, the AGFC site has plenty of information regarding public fishing. AGFC reported in 2021 that they, along with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service trout hatcheries and other partners, released over 12.5 million fish into Arkansas waters.

394-1938

TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHAUST • SHOCKS & STRUTS

Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm

1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash

22 Sports

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

Mena softball wins at Tiger baseball advances to post season De Queen 12-1

By Pulse Staff

Soccer April 28 - Mena @ De Queen (Conference Meet) May 2-7 - State Meet Softball April 29 - Mena @ Malvern May 3 - Mena @ Hope Baseball/Softball April 29 - Arkadelphia @ Mena

Track May 3 - Acorn @ Quitman

Softball April 27 - Cossatot @ CenterPoint

Baseball April 28 - Northern Oklahoma College @ UARM May 1 - UARM @ Northern Oklahoma College May 4 - Murray State College @ UARM Softball April 28 - Northern Oklahoma College @ UARM April 30 - Connors State College @ UARM May 2 - Eastern Oklahoma State College @ UARM

The Mena LadyCats softball team continued their winning ways with a 12-1 victory at De Queen Friday afternoon.

Addison Thomas was superb in the circle for Mena.

Thomas allowed only one run on two hits. Thomas struck out 10 and walked two to earn the victory.

The LadyCats pounded out 14 hits on the day. Kinsey Rossen went four for four with two triples, three RBIs, and three runs scored.

Emmi Hines had a double and single and three RBI’s.

Lilly Rowland collected a double, a single and knocked in two runs. Emily Leonard had a double and two RBI’s.

London Wagner collected a double and knocked in a run. Carley Smart added a single.

Coach Ray Hunter’s club improved to 12-6 overall on the season. The LadyCats are in third place in the conference standings with an 8-4 record.

On the baseball diamond at De Queen Friday afternoon, the Mena Bearcats were also victorious by a score of 9-3.

Submitted by coach Scott Bohlman The Acorn Tigers wrapped up their conference season at Mountainburg with a 10-2 win and clinched a second-place conference finish. The Tigers finished the conference season with a 6-4 record.

After previously losing to Moun-

tainburg this season, the Tigers played up to their potential and ended the year with a redemption win!

Acorn has clinched a spot in the regional tournament that will be hosted in Mansfield, May 4-7.

They will play their first game of the district tournament Thursday, April 28 in Magazine.

Basscats take second place

By Pete Rose

Austin Rose and Jarrett Burger took second place, April 24, at Lake Hamilton in the Student Angler Federation Arkansas High School State Championship. These young men continue to represent the Mena Basscats, their family, sponsors and

school as true champions. Their quest to repeat as AYFF Arkansas High School Anglers of the Year looks very likely.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

April 27, 2022

Mena Soccer Association undefeated in division

By Trey Youngdahl

Sports 23

Progress being made on CRSD athletics fields

talent you have. It’s about how

By Trey Youngdahl much effort you put into it,” Parra The Mena Soccer Association’s said. “Just to watch them improve Progress is being made with the con(MSA) season came to an end on throughout the year is amazing. struction on Cossatot River School DisApril 16, finishing undefeated.

It’s a lot of fun to see how much tricts athletics fields.

After sitting uncompleted for four years, the Cossatot River School District (CRSD) board voted last Feb. to continue the construction of their soccer, baseball and softball fields, as well as adding a track and space for shot put, long jump and discus.

Construction is being done by Nabholtz and will start as early as this month.

Though the contract says the work will be done in May, CRSD officials project it to finish in June due to weather delays.

“Dirt work is done, which is big because that is the part of the job that can be so complicated to work around the rainy season,” CRSD Superintendent Tyler Broyles said. “Now we are working

Completing these ball fields was a huge step, and perfectly in line with my vision for the future of this school,” Broyles said.

“I want to thank my school board for deciding to move forward with the project.

They’ve made some big decisions this year, and that’s not an easy thing to do.”

The big decisions being referred to are the restructuring of the two elementary schools in the district, which was decided on Jan. 31. Under the new structure, Vandervoort Elementary will hold grades K-second and be renamed Cossatot River Primary School. Wickes Elementary will hold grades third-sixth and will be renamed Cossatot River Elementary School. This will go into effect during the 2022-23 school year.

Additionally, Wendall Cartwright will be moving into the athletic director position, with Bryan Richardson taking on the new role of head coach for senior

(l-r) coach Sarah Gibson, Joseph Parra, Caysen Killian, Joshua Gibson, Eden Ward, Jason Baldridge, Jacob White, Jakson Ward, Walker Vekre, Jarret Smith, Zander Erickson, assistant coach Miranda Parra, Adalyn Pack (Submitted photo)

Coached by Sarah Gibson and Miranda Parra, the MSA placed first in the under-8-year-old division. The team garnered a 6-0 record for the regular season and won both of their tournament games.

“I’m super proud of them,” head coach Gibson said. “My assistant coach and I have been coaching for most of the past four years and this is the first time we’ve ever had an undefeated season.”

Assistant coach Parra coached her first game with MSA in 2018.

She has coached alongside Gibson for over three years now.

“To me, it’s not about how much

they’ve grown.”

The teams play at Tapley Park during both spring and fall. To register, applicants can go to Mena City Hall and request an application. Teams meet for practice twice a week and the sign-up fee is $35.

“My favorite thing about the season has been that all of the parents have worked together. We don’t have any drama between the parents or kids, and that was honestly the best part of the season,” Shawn Erickson, mother of player Zander Erickson, said. “It was such a pleasure to be a part of it.”

with concrete contractors to lay foundations for dugouts and bleachers. It’s the part of the job that isn’t as visible to those passing by, but it’s also the foundation we need to finish up quickly.”

Last month, the fence and bleachers were erected at the soccer field. Irrigation crews are currently on site working on getting irrigation installed in the baseball and softball field. These big changes from Broyles are coming during his first year as superintendent for CRSD. “My two goals coming into this position were to foster unity and growth.

(Trey Youngdahl/Pulse) boys, junior boys, and seventh grade boys.

Blake Alexander will serve as the head coach for senior girls, junior girls, and seventh grade girls.

“This was a collaborative move with the coaching staff to help us be more aligned with our program and to provide more traditional athletic oversight like schools similar to our size,” Broyles said.

“The coaches are excited about their new roles and have already began planning for next season.”

24

April 27, 2022

STAY ALERT. STAY INFORMED. STAY SAFE. Some severe weather events are predictable, others may happen with little or no warning.

Keep yourself and your family safe and healthy in any weather emergency by visiting the CDC Natural Disasters and Severe Weather information site.

www.cdc.gov/disasters/ Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve

515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M

THE POLK COUNTY

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