Polk County Pulse August 3, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

August 3, 2022

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Burn Ban lifted

By Ethan Nahté’

By Ethan Nahté

HSO Fundraisers

Pages 14-54

Wildlife Officers Awarded

Page 18

2022 Sales Tax Holiday

Page 24

In a somewhat predictable outcome, the Polk County Quorum Court voted against an ordinance to approve the application of The Ouachita Land Conservation Fund, dba The Blue; Zip Line and Farm, LLC, for a ho- t e l and large event facility private club alcohol permit.

The Court convened Thursday, July 26, at the Polk County Office Complex Building. The first order of business was old business—the alcohol permit. During the June 28 meeting, the reading of the ordinance was suspended after the first reading by a vote of 8-3. An ordinance is required to be read on three different days unless at least 2/3 of the council votes to dispense with

The rain teased Friday and did little more in some areas of Polk County the rule. on Saturday than sprinkle for the The Blue owner, Shelly Alston, first half of the day, not providspoke to the Court. Alston ing enough precipitation to soak broached the subject of a large through the baked soil. event facility. She said, “There’s Finally, the rain picked up with been a lot of misconception on heavy winds and rainfall for a few what that means. A lot of peosporadic minutes in-between more drizzle Saturday afternoon and into ple think I am putting in a large Sunday morning. convention center; that I have The countywide burn ban that investors. Nobody is was put into place on July 5 was liftinvesting in my proped as of 8 a.m. on August 1. erty except me. The Polk County Judge Brandon Elterm ‘large event falison signed off on Court Order cility,’ with the size C-2022-26 that Polk County had “… of my field and the recently received enough moisture bull pasture—that and the future weather forecast incalls for a large event dicate low winds and higher humidfacility event, though ity with the possibility of more preit’s an outdoor facility.” cipitation. These conditions should The working cattle farm has make it safer for outdoor burning.” been in Alston’s family since Polk County is still at high risk for 1897. In addition to the zip wildfires according to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture sire arklines, which the website states, fireinfo.org. In addition, Howard “No one under the influence of County is no longer under a burn alcohol, illegal drugs or impairban, but Scott, Montgomery and ing legal drugs, will be allowed to Sevier Counties are amongst the 48 participate in the tour,” counties in Arkansas still under a See ALCOHOL burn ban as of August 1. continued on page 13

2 News

August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Ready your items for the Polk County Fair

Submitted by Ann Glenn

Education Building at the Fairgrounds.

“Sew It! Grow It! Show It!” is the Tuesday, Aug. 30, 1 – 7 p.m. (pottheme for this year’s Polk County ted plants, farm crops, and fruit and Fair, Sept. 1, 2, and 3. vegetable crops).

It is a few weeks away, but now is a Wednesday, Aug. 31, 7:30 - 10

good time to be thinking ahead and planning what you might enter in the many departments showcased by the annual Polk County Fair.

Livestock, baked goods and food preservation, clothing, arts and crafts, art and photography, horticulture and crops: with so many opportunities to show off your talents and accomplishments, there is surely something for everyone. So, plan ahead and get your entries ready to win ribbons and prize money!

Entries should be brought to the

a.m. (fresh cut flowers, flower bouquets and arrangements, fruits, vegetables, and farm crops).

Judging will take place Wednesday, Aug. 31, and the Fair will be open to the public Sept. 1, 2, and 3.

All entries must be picked up on Sunday, Sept. 4, 1 - 3 p.m.

For a complete listing of all classes and rules, consult the official Fair Catalog, which should be available at the Extension Service office, Farmers’ Co-op, banks and other businesses.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

August 3, 2022

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Letter to the Editor: Recently I sent an article to the Pulse addressing Electric vehicles. I want to clarify something. I am all for trying to preserve our planet for future generations. I try to make the most of each trip to limit my carbon footprint. I have recycled everything possible for the last 40-plus years and would do more here if it was available.

Electric vehicles have a place in our country, just maybe in the cities more than rural or open areas. I do not think electric vehicles are the answer to all our issues.

Sure, they reduce fossil fuel use, but create new problems in the process.

The safe and clean generation of power, storage batteries, limited range, and recharging stations are issues not yet solved. The area some of us live in limits use and practicality. Record setting heat is stressing the power grid in Texas and California. Electric vehicle charging is not helping, yet every effort to push their use is being encouraged. The far left is determined to force our government polices to bend to their will, no matter the unintended consequences.

Do not think I am fond of big oil.

I am not. To our younger generation not alive in the 1970’s let me tell you of the lie foisted upon the American consumer regarding oil. There was an alleged oil shortage, and we were going to run out of that commodity in the near future. Gas fill ups at the stations were limited to the odd/even system. What that meant was one day license plates ending in odd

numbers could fill up and the next day only even. Long lines and yes... prices went up from 45 to 50 cents a gallon to over 95 cents.

Suddenly, no shortage, and fast forward almost 50 years and the shortage has not yet materialized, only continued efforts to manipulate prices at every opportunity.

I feel that there are those intentionally misleading us. There was serious news reporting of high gas prices then the gleeful revelation that they have come down some.

Even now I have heard a few say what a relief from over $5 a gallon that gas in some places is under $4 now. Count on gas staying above $3 and we will accept that after staring $6 in the eyes. That was the plan all along I would wager. We have again been manipulated and will welcome that price.

And again, we are being played.

See how easy that was.

I only hope that when we do run out of oil that a sustainable alternative will take its place. I also hope it helps rather than hurts the environment and does not create more problems in the process.

If your spouse kicks you out, you probably have somewhere else to go. Not so with Mother Earth. At least not for now.

Thank you for a forum to express my thoughts.

With respect and kindest regards, Ronald Goss, Retired, Mena

Letters 3

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4 Politics

August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Senate unanimously passes Boozman-led initiatives to strengthen recycling and composting WASHINGTON– Legislation championed by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), co-chair of the Senate Recycling Caucus, focused on improving our nation’s recycling and composting systems unanimously passed the Senate, Thursday, July 28.

“The answers to our problems need to come from the ground up.

These bills are the result of the efforts by stakeholders and folks who identified an issue and how they can be solved. Recycling helps reduce waste while also creating jobs and driving innovation. I applaud Senate passage of these initiatives and urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to follow the Senate’s lead and pass these bipartisan bills,” Boozman said.

The “Recycling and Composting Accountability Act” would require the EPA to collect and make publicly available data on recycling and composting rates across the country. The “Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act” would establish a pilot rural recycling program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Boozman applauded Senate passage during remarks on the floor.

Boozman joined Senate Recycling Caucus co-chair and chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW) Tom Carper (D-DE) and ranking member Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV) to introduce and advance the two pieces of legislation.

In February, Boozman participated in a Senate EPW hearing to gain input from recycling industry leaders on the challenges confronting our nation’s recycling infrastructure. Members used that input to improve these legislative initiatives.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

August 3, 2022

From the

State House of Representatives

aquaculture industry, includThe catfish industry is the ing the Aquaculture/Fisherlargest component of aquaies Center for Excellence and culture in the United States the University of Arkansas and a significant industry in Pine Bluff and the Harry K. Arkansas. In fact, Arkansas Dupree National Aquaculcatfish farmers contributed ture Research Center in $19.5 million to Arkansas’s Stuttgart. agricultural economy in John Maddox In 2015, the General As2021. That’s up 17% from the sembly passed Act 1191 previous year.

The month of August has been pro- which created a catfish labeling reclaimed as Arkansas Catfish Month. quirement to ensure consumers can This designation recognizes the im- accurately identify the country of orpact of catfish producers across the igin of catfish purchased in Arkansas retail establishments. This legislation state.

Arkansas is the birthplace of the helps to provide quality control for commercial catfish industry, with at consumers and protects domestic least two farms selling catfish in the catfish farmers from substitutes that late 1950s. By 1966, Arkansas had are imported and sold often under 4,500 acres in catfish production and the label of being catfish.

U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is a lean three processing plants.

Today, Arkansas has 3,800 water fish and an excellent source of prosurface acres used for catfish produc- tein. It is low in saturated fat and is tion. That’s a 6% increase from 2020. a moderate source of polyunsaturatArkansas now ranks 4th in the nation ed fat and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s just in catfish production. Ninety-four one more reason to celebrate Arkanpercent of all U.S. Farm-Raised Cat- sas Catfish Month.

You can find links to catfish recipes fish is raised in Alabama, Arkansas, and more information about ArkanLouisiana and Mississippi.

Our state is also home to programs sas’s aquaculture industry at www.arproviding research and support to the kansashouse.org.

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 Well-attended meetings at out. Projects must comply the state Capitol usually inwith exacting health and safedicate that legislators are adty regulations. dressing an important issue.

Even if revolving loans are That was certainly the case available, long-term financwhen the joint Senate and ing is tricky because water House Committees on City, systems cannot simply douCounty and Local Affairs met ble or triple the rates paid by to explore methods of fund- Larry Teague consumers in order to finance ing of much-needed improveloans. Many of the 650 water ments to water and sewer systems systems in Arkansas serve low-inacross Arkansas. come families.

A room full of local officials, manInflation is a factor, especially in agers of water and engineers asked the construction industry. The lonlegislators to open a process that ger it takes for a water system to bid would allow them to apply for grants out a project, the less pipeline it gets and relief funds. for the money. The longer the steerSeveral legislators and many witing committee waits, the fewer water nesses expressed frustration that no projects will be funded because of water projects had even been coninflation. sidered by the steering committee Also adding urgency to the debate that recommends how federal relief are this summer’s high temperatures funds should be spent. and the lingering drought across One senator who is on the steering Arkansas. As one witness told legcommittee said it was stacked in faislators, even after the drought ends vor of the governor, because it conmost water systems will need upsists of nine executive branch departgrades. ment heads and six legislators. That Water managers were hesitant to means no projects are brought before estimate how much money is needthe steering committee without prior ed to upgrade water and sewer inapproval from the governor. frastructure in Arkansas. For one The steering committee has recomreason, it is a moving target. A few mended that hundreds of millions in years ago a statewide study estimatfederal funding be used for broaded about $3.7 billion in needs, but band expansion, virtual training and in more recent surveys the estimates contact tracing. Legislators said it’s are closer to $5 billion. just as important to shore up deteThe Secretary of Agriculture said riorating infrastructure that delivers that water systems in every corner of clean drinking water to citizens. the state have needs.

The Senate co-chair of the City, Water managers said that they did County and Local Affairs Commitnot expect to get the entire amount tee emphasized the urgency of getof funding, but that receiving some ting projects funded immediately. of the federal relief money would The federal relief funds have to be show that the state’s decision makers spent by 2026, but water and sewer believe water is a priority. projects can take years to plan and The governor said $836 million in get “shovel ready” because they are federal relief funds arrived in June. so complex.

He told the press that his appointWater systems must acquire rights ments to the steering committee of way and prepare highly detailed were working on a plan, and that he specifications before bidding them had asked them to meet soon.

6 Obituaries

August 3, 2022

Myrna Corrine Blunt

Myrna Corrine Blunt was born on the 15th and 16th of December, her parents could not agree so her birth certificate shows both dates.

She grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, rather poor. Her parents split up when she was 9 and she raised a younger brother and toddler sister. It was a rough childhood.

She married and had two sons and a daughter that died before she was born. Now she has 15 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Myrna accepted Christ before she was 30 and went on the mission field for a couple years in England where she took care of missionaries coming and going, again being a mother to lots of people.

Myrna finished high school than got a degree in accounting at age 40.

She also came to America and became a citizen, which she was very proud of. She worked for several communication companies almost always at the director level. Her last place was director of finance at CMA here in Mena. She was very smart, very beautiful, outgoing and loved life. She had a fantastic sense of humor and used her entire body to tell a story with her big blue eyes, facial expressions and hands going in all directions. She could make anyone laugh. She loved Grace Bible Church and all the people in it, asking to get the bulletin every Sunday even though she was too sick to attend she wanted to pray for anyone that needed it. The last year of her

life was filled with pain due to cancer with hospital stays and chemo, still she read her bible every morning and prayed for any number of people without fail. She always wanted to sing but she would get off key sometimes but now she is singing with the angels making beautiful music in heaven, where everything is beautiful and her husband can’t kill the plants. I am her husband and I miss her dearly, but I had her for 18 wonderful years and she put up with me. Now she is loved, out of pain and will still be praying for anyone she thought would need it. Her loss is great, she left a hole in my heart that one day will be repaired when I see her again.

She is survived by her loving husband of 18 years, Dale Blunt; two sons, Robert and Greg Wurzburg; four sisters, Linda Langill, Judy Inman, Heather Coulonbe, and Debbie Belof; one brother, Chris Tricker. She is preceded in death by her parents Percy and Muriel Tricker.

M. Leon Mourton M. Leon Mourton born November 26, 1941, joined other saints in Christ, July 29, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda Gail Taylor Mourton, a son and daughter-in-law Stanley and Lisa Mourton of Mena, Arkansas, and three grandchildren, Brooke Rose, Calvin Mourton and Bethany Mourton of Mena, Arkansas, brother, Wesley Mourton of Hot Springs, Arkansas, brother, Gary Mourton of Wagner, Oklahoma, and brother, Kenneth

Mourton of Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Leon was predeceased by his sister, Helen Marie Mourton Foster, and parents Malvin and Helen Mourton of Mena, Arkansas.

Leon was a member of and regularly attended the Assembly of God Church North Little Rock.

Leon worked during his childhood for the local newspaper in Mena.

He saved his earnings, and halfway thru his senior year in Mena High School, he bought a brand-new1959 Chevrolet Corvette. He paid for this car with his own money.

He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from the Little Rock University and became a Certified Public Accountant in The State of Arkansas. While working full-time with the Internal Revenue Service, he completed his Master of Business Administration at George Washington University in 1968.

Leon had a very successful, 35year career, with the Examination Division of the Internal Revenue Service. He began as office auditor, promoted to revenue agent. He was promoted to a position in Washington DC, where he wrote texts used to train new revenue agents in tax law. He became group manager, an examination branch chief, an assist regional commissioner, and a district examination division chief.

He was awarded the United States Department of the Treasury Albert Gallatin Award. This is the highest award given to employees of the Department of the Treasury for their service during their career.

Upon retirement from the United States Treasury, Leon worked for BKD for 3 years, then started working for himself from his home office in Little Rock, Arkansas and contin-

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse ued tax preparation for his personal clients until 2022.

Services for Mr. Leon Mourton will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 5, 2022, at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Wesley Mourton officiating. Interment will follow at the Cherry Hill Cemetery in Cherry Hill, Arkansas.

Visitation will be held Thursday, August 4, 2022, from 6:00 pm. To 8:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others. ~Albert Schweitzer

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Obituaries 7

August 3, 2022

Helen Giesler Easterwood

Helen Giesler Easterwood passed from this life Sunday, July 31, 2022, in Mena.

She was born at Cove, Arkansas, April 2, 1933. Helen was the eighth child of George and Hughie Giesler.

She spent her entire life in Polk County. She was preceded in death by sisters, Wanita and Anita, Mildred Cunningham and Ethel Pederson and brothers, Mose, Douglas and Carson as well as her parents.

She was married to David Easterwood in 1951. They met at church and after dating for over a year were married and enjoyed almost 43 years of marriage before his death in 1994.

Helen was a member of the Church of Christ which she attended faithfully until her passing.

She is survived by a son, Hugh Easterwood and wife Ellen of Jacksonville, Arkansas; daughter, Glenda Gillaspy and husband Curtis of Wickes, Arkansas; granddaughter, Kellie Friesen and husband Chad of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Leslie Gillaspy of Wickes, Arkansas, and David Hugh Easterwood and Megan of Little Rock, and four great-grandchildren.

Helen worked at different jobs during the school year when her children were home. Later she spent 27 years working as different jobs for the Wickes School, the last 19 years serving as a foster grandparent, including 10 years working the admission desk at the local basketball games. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and writing family stories for her extended family.

She will be buried beside her husband at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas, at

a graveside service, on Thursday, August 4, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., with David Jacobs and Mark Kinkade as a speakers.

If desired donations may be made to the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in her memory.

Carolyn “Candy” Virginia Boyd Johnson

Carolyn “Candy” Virginia Boyd Johnson, age 78, went to her Heavenly home on July 30, 2022, while surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 28, 1943, to Forrest “Bob” Bodkin Boyd and Mabel Lee McCowan Boyd. Candy graduated from Mena High School in 1962.

She was a cook/waitress before retirement, but she treasured her time as a truck driver most. She enjoyed her word search books and watching movies.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, her beloved grandmother, Bertha Grace Sikes McCowan, two brothers and one sister.

Candy is survived by her son, Michael Lance and wife Shawn; her daughter, Tonya Gore and husband Paul, her sister and care giver, Ronda Wall and partner Greg; her grandchildren Lauren and husband Derrick and Justin and his wife Jessie; as well as 5 great-grandchildren who she adored. Also, numerous nieces and nephews who were special to her, and her dear friends, Mandy Henry and son Jayden, and Gerald Johnson.

A memorial celebration will be held at Board Camp Cemetery on August 6, 2022, at 2:00 p.m.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

WHO IS THE ANTICHRIST? Part 2

By Daniel Fontenot

In our last article we saw that Antichrist is someone who substitutes himself for Jesus Christ, the true God and Saviour of mankind. No one else can save man but Jesus Christ. But, Antichrist comes in and tries to usurp Christ’s position and authority. Antichrist says, “I am the Vicar of Christ.” The Jesuit, William Humphrey, wrote, “A vicar is put in the place of him whom he represents. He is invested with his power, he is furnished with his authority. . . He personates his principle. . .The master, by his appointment of a vicar, binds himself to ratify his vicar’s acts, and to recognize them as his own.” The Greek word for Antichrist is---Antichristos, which, translated into English means Vicar of Christ. When the force of this similarity between the Antichrist of Bible Prophecy and the pope of Rome dawned upon the mind of Cardinal Newman, he declared : “The gibe, ‘If the Pope is not Antichrist, he has had bad luck to be so like him,’ is really another argument in favor of the claims of the Pope; since Antichrist simulates Christ, and the Pope is an image of Christ, Antichrist must have some similarity to the Pope, if the latter be the true Vicar of Christ.”—Catholic Encyclopedia, Vol. 1, p. 561, art. “Antichrist”. It is evident that the so-called Vicar of Christ is the Antichrist of Bible Prophecy.

And ALL those who have placed upon themselves the title of Vicar of Christ are Antichrist. Antichrist “opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sits in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God,” as Paul wrote in 2Thessalonians 2:4.

How does the Antichrist, or Vicar of Christ substitute himself for the true Christ? How does he oppose the true Christ? How does he exalt himself above Jesus Christ? How does he pretend to be God on earth? Daniel the Prophet, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit has told us.

Daniel 7:25 states that the Little Horn, which is the same as the Beast of Revelation 13:1—10, which is the Man of Sin of 2Thessalonians 2:3,4, would “speak great words against The Most High {God}, and shall wear out the saints of The Most High {God}, and think to change times and laws.” How has the Little Horn, or Vicar of Christ spoken “great words against the Most High”? Do the following words apply? Pope Innocent III, who claimed to be the Vicar of Christ from 1198 until 1216 stated, that the Roman Pontiff is “the vicegerent upon earth, not a mere man, but of very God”. The Pope, dear readers, has been styled “Lord God the Pope”.

Pope Leo XIII in his “Great Encyclical Letters” says: “We hold upon this earth the place of God Almighty.” This is how the Antichrist exalts himself above God. In a large, authentic work by F. Lucii Ferraris, called “Prompta Bibliotheca Canonica Juridica Moralis Theoligica,” printed at Rome, 1890, and sanctioned by the Catholic Encyclopedia {Vol. 6, p. 48} we find the following statement regarding the power of the pope : “The Pope is of so great dignity and so exalted that he is not a mere man, but as it were God, and the vicar of God. . .Hence the Pope is crowned with a triple crown, as king of Heaven and of earth and of the lower regions.”

To be continued Questions? Comments? Email me at danielfontenot46@gmail.com PAID ADVERTISEMENT

8 Politics

August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Candidate filing for municipal offices open

The candidate filing period for municipal filing will open on Wednesday, August 3, and will close Wednesday, August 10, at noon.

Petition packets are ready and can be picked up in the County Clerk’s Office anytime during normal busi-

ness hours. The County Clerk’s Office is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The office is located in the Polk County Court House, located at 507 Church Ave., Mena.

Cotton accepting service academy nominations Washington, D.C. – Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) announced August 1 that he is accepting applications for service academy nominations. In order to be considered for a nomination, materials must be submitted by Monday, November 1, 2022.

“Students who attend U.S. service academies and go on to serve their country in uniform are the pride of Arkansas, and I encour-

age each young Arkansan with a sincere interest to apply,” Cotton said.

Interested students can find the application, along with information on eligibility and other requirements at https://www. cotton.senate.gov/help/academy-nominations/.

Please contact Nicole Millar 501-223-9081 for any additional questions.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 9

August 3, 2022

The best ideas come from the ground up

Fair Care for all

sion of Ukraine has created a Recently, the American Farm global food shortage. Inflation Bureau Federation recognized is historically high and Amerime with the Golden Plow, the cans do not feel positive about highest honor it awards sitting the economy. Our producers members of Congress. are dealing with high input The success I’ve had in shapcosts, including record high ing Ag policy is thanks, in fertilizer prices and skyrocklarge part, to the Farm BuJohn Boozman eting energy bills. They are reau—and especially its Aralso dealing with drought, a kansas branch—serving as a vital resource in supporting Natural labor shortage and supply chain bottlenecks. Consumers are facing the highState farmers, ranchers and foresters.

For over 100 years, the Farm Bureau est food inflation rate since the Carter has been on the forefront of efforts to administration.

I’ve had the opportunity to work on boost rural America and strengthen several farm bills over the years. There the lives of those who call it home.

I strongly believe the best ideas come is one consistent key to success—we from the ground up, not the other way have to all work together. The good around, which is why the Farm Bu- news is the Senate agriculture commitreau’s voice carries so much weight in tee has a long and storied history of domy book. We have stood side by side ing just that.

But there is one threat that continues on numerous battles over the years and those outcomes would have been much to hang over the farm bill process: the different had the Farm Bureau not been Democrats’ reckless tax and spending legislation. Their latest proposal sets there.

The Farm Bureau’s guidance will be aside the bipartisan farm bill process heavily relied upon as we begin to de- and charges forward in designating velop the next farm bill, the nation’s funding for specific farm bill programs five-year-plan for agriculture, conser- in a partisan way which will make it vation, food, forestry and rural devel- much more difficult to write farm bills in the future. opment policy.

Using this partisan process to inArkansas Farm Bureau has made a notable impact on the farm bill draft- crease farm bill spending sets a bad ing process already, as members of- precedent and undermines our own fered testimony at the Senate agricul- work. If we’re not careful, farm bills ture committee’s recent field hearing in will only be written this manner moving forward. Not only does this process Jonesboro.

Our witnesses shared insights and cut out the minority party, but it also concerns about our commodity pro- means policy is written without input grams, safety nets, risk management, from the stakeholders.

Having input from those directly imconservation programs, rural development and more—covering nearly the pacted by the policy is vital to ensurwhole gambit of issues that the farm ing the final product will work when bill touches. The hearing was invalu- it is implemented. Engaging farmers, able in that it provided a look into the ranchers and producers should hapeffectiveness of, and opportunities to pen as we formulate legislation, not as improve, farm bill programs for our an afterthought. I am committed to always seeking out and incorporating the state’s Ag industry.

There is a long list of challenges we counsel of the Farm Bureau, and other face as we begin writing the next farm agricultural stakeholder groups, as we policy framework. Russia’s brutal inva- craft policy in the Senate.

Senate Democrats are resAmericans. urrecting President Biden’s That is why I crafted a shortsighted “Build Back comprehensive plan that Better” bill after reaching combines over 75 biparan agreement with Senator tisan proposals to salvage Joe Manchin (D-WV). The workable sections of the Afbill, besides raising taxes fordable Care Act (ACA) Bruce Westerman and greenlighting Green to expand insurance and New Deal provisions, will health care options, proexpand government control over tect those with pre-existing condrug pricing in a misguided atditions, lower costs, and increase tempt to bring down health care the number of insured Americans. costs. Though Americans largeMy plan, the Fair Care Act ly agree that health care reform (FCA), will put more dollars back is needed, given the 31 million into American’s pockets so they uninsured Americans and the can make their own choices about cost of health care averaging over what health care options work $12,500 per person in 2020, sadly, best for them and their families, but unsurprisingly, Republicans while dropping the number of unare being entirely excluded from insured Americans by about 35%, the negotiations. or roughly 14.6 million people.

We have real differences in how I am confident that a bipartiwe want to address our problems san solution can be found to deleading to oversimplified stereoliver real and lasting health care types suggesting that Republicans reform to the American people. insist on fiscally responsible, longRegardless of the difficulties that term solutions that will bring have come before us, we must decosts down, while Democrats will liver Americans the Fair Care they not risk increasing the number of deserve. No one should go broke uninsured Americans, even in the from a tragic accident or diagnoshort term. The disagreement has sis. I am confident that through led to an impasse without meanthe FCA, we can support free ingful progress towards makmarket solutions that protect the ing health care affordable for all most vulnerable among us.

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August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Applications for Wildland Fire Suppression Kits accepted through September 30 LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division is now accepting applications for Wildland Fire Suppression Kits through September 30, 2022.

The application can be found at cognitoforms.com/ArkansasAgriculture1/ApplicationForWildlandFireSuppressionKit. The Forestry Division received $293,600 through a U.S. Forest Service grant to provide 89 kits this year to rural volunteer fire departments across the state.

Nearly 600 kits have been distributed since 2014.

Volunteer fire departments are the Forestry Division’s primary partner in wildfire response and suppression. The kits will provide these departments with specialized equipment needed for safe suppression, including up to ten wildfire-resistant coveralls, ten pairs of wildland gloves, two backpack leaf blowers, two collapsible backpack water pumps, six leaf rakes, and two McLeod rakes.

Rural volunteer fire departments interested in applying should apply online at cognitoforms.com/ ArkansasAgriculture1/ApplicationForWildlandFireSuppressionKit. Paper applications are available upon request. Applications are scored according to specific criteria to include the population of the fire district, the number of square miles covered, the average number of wildfires a department responds to annually, and other factors.

The selected departments will be notified in October, and kits will be delivered in spring of 2023 or as soon as supplies are received.

Fire departments may contact Kathryn Mahan-Hooten at Kathryn.mahan@agriculture.arkansas. gov or (501)679-3183 with questions. More information about the program can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/ rural-fire-protection-program/.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas. gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

August 3, 2022 History 11 Pulse Reflections from History and Faith: National Purple Heart Day THE POLK COUNTY

By Jeff Olson

America’s military history is replete with accounts of sacrifice and heroism.

Many of these have been acknowledged through the awarding of special citations and medals. Included among those is one we have all heard of: The Purple Heart.

About 14 years ago, I learned of an institution dedicated solely to recognizing and honoring those who have earned the Purple Heart. This especially caught my attention because my father earned a Purple Heart for severe wounds he suffered in June 1944 in the southwest Pacific Theater of World War II. I promptly looked up The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor (located in New Windsor, New York), which commemorates and recognizes the extraordinary sacrifices of America’s servicemen and servicewomen who were wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. Military. The mission of The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is to collect and preserve the stories of Purple Heart recipients from all branches of service and across generations to ensure that all recipients are represented. I subsequently and proudly submitted the name and credentials of U.S. Army PFC Wayne Ray Olson (1911-1974).

The Purple Heart is America’s oldest military decoration and was established by George Washington 240 years ago. On August 7, 1782, his general orders established the Badge of Military Merit: “…The General ever desirous to cherish virtuous ambition in his soldiers, as well as to foster and encourage every species of Military merit directs whenever any singularly meritorious action is performed, the author of it shall be permitted to wear on his facings, over his left breast, the figure of a heart in purple cloth or silk edged with narrow lace or binding.” The order also included the phrase: “Let it be known that he who

wears the Military Order of the Purple Heart has given of his blood in the defense of his homeland and shall forever be revered by his fellow countrymen.”

The Badge of Military Merit was only awarded to three Revolutionary War soldiers. While Washington intended

and stated that the award was to be a permanent one, the Badge was all but forgotten until the 20th century.

General John J. Pershing suggested a need for an award for merit in 1918, but it was Army Chief of Staff General Charles Pelot Summerall who in October 1927 directed that a draft bill be sent to Congress “to revive the Badge of Military Merit.” The bill was withdrawn and action on the case ceased shortly thereafter.

In January 1931, General Douglas MacArthur reopened work on a new design, involving the Washington Commission of Fine Arts. Elizabeth Will, an Army heraldic specialist in the Office of the Quartermaster General,

was named to redesign the newly revived medal which became known as the Purple Heart. Using general specifications provided to her, Will created the design sketch for the present medal of the Purple Heart. The medal has a bronze heart bearing Washington’s silhouette in its purple center and the Washington coat-of-arms at the top.

By Executive Order of the President of the United States, the Purple Heart was revived 90 years ago in 1932 on the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. General Order No. 3 announced the establishment of the award: “...By order of the President of the United States, the Purple Heart, established by General George Washington at Newburgh, August 7, 1782, during the War of the Revolution is hereby revived out of respect to his memory and military achievements.” On May 28, 1932, 137 World War I veterans were conferred their Purple Hearts at Temple Hill in New Windsor, New York.

Although the exact number of Purple Hearts awarded is unknown, it is estimated that there has been a total of close to 1.8 million. Of these, 1.3 million have been awarded since World War II. I am very proud of the fact that this important part of my father’s legacy is now enshrined in The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, and I still have and treasure his Purple Heart, which I will bequeath to his grandson, Erik.

In remembering those recipients of

the Purple Heart, let us not forget that in some cases the aftermath of their wounds extended well beyond war.

The war may have been won, but external and internal battles continue for the remainder of their lives, and these involve families who themselves are in a sense also casualties of war. This my family experienced first-hand for years. Many other families still do.

Perhaps there are other deserving patriots, which as of yet, have not had their names submitted to be honored through this or other avenues of recognition such as the National Purple Heart Honor Mission. I believe that such an undertaking is essential to commemorate the measure and scope of their sacrifice, honor the spirit of America’s fighting men and women, and perpetuate their legacy—a legacy of freedom, which each of us have a responsibility in preserving. In the words of Gen. Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964), “No man is entitled to the blessings of freedom unless he be vigilant in its preservation.”

As we wake up to a new day in the land of the free and the home of the brave on this Sunday, August 7, National Purple Heart Day, shall we count those 1.8 million Purple Heart recipients worthy enough for setting some time aside to reflect on their service and sacrifice, and to show our gratitude and respect through a resolve to preserve what they fought, suffered and some died for.

12 Faith

By Richie Lawry

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

August 3, 2022

I must confess that I have never been interested in pro wrestling. When I was growing up, my family didn’t have a television in our home. In high school, many kids talked about a new TV program, WWWF Championship Wrestling. When they spoke of Bruno Sammartino, Chief Jay Strongbow, Killer Kowalski, and Andre The Giant, I had no idea what they were talking about.

As I got older and had a family of my own, I occasionally saw wrestling on TV. The flashy costumes, bragging, and posturing didn’t entice me to continue watching. But I couldn’t avoid it altogether, as wrestling became a part of American culture, and names such as Hulk Hogan and Roddy Piper became well known even outside wrestling circles. With its popularity, many people began to ask questions. Is it a sport or a show? Is it real or fake? I heard many lively debates on the subject.

As the years have passed and wrestling has become even more popular, the debate has waned. People know the answer, and the sport no longer tries to hide it. In an interview, professional wrestler Kurt Angle said, “Pro wrestling is not fake; it’s sports entertainment. We go out there, and we perform, and a lot of what we do out there is real, but we’re not going to insult anyone’s intelligence—there is a predetermined winner. It’s just the fans don’t know who it is, and that’s what makes it so intriguing.”

In a How Stuff Works article by Ed Grabianowski titled “How Pro Wrestling Works,” Grabianowski wrote, “The skills of the wrestlers do not determine the outcome of the match. Instead, writers work on plots and storylines well in advance, and every match is another chapter in the story. Who wins and who loses is all in the script.

“Does that mean that wrestling is fake?

It’s true that the plots are predetermined, and the moves are choreographed. Wrestlers aren’t really trying to beat up and injure each other. Sometimes, the bitterest

An Arkie’s Faith Wrestling Hall of Fame

mon rules stated that each man shall take hold of the collar of his opponent with his right hand, while with his left he must take hold of the elbow. Both men shall stand up breast to breast, with limber arms, and show fair play.

With his impressive career in which he suffered only one defeat, Abe was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1992 as an O ut st and i ng American.

Abe’s entry on their webThe National Wrestling Hall of Fame, located in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

(Photo by Richie Lawry) site states, “Born in a log see a movie, you know that the actor didn’t cabin in Kentucky, Abraham Lincoln rereally jump a burning car over an explod- ceived little schooling as his family moved through the wilderness. Growing up in Iling bridge, but you’re still entertained.”

I recently learned the story of a wres- linois, he clerked in a store, studied law, tler who had a storied career in the ‘30s. served in the Black Hawk War and took There was no television then, so most part in political talk of the day.

“In the rough and ready style of the people have never heard of him. He was a trash-talking, rough and tumble wrestler. frontier, ‘catch as catch can’ wrestling was His moves were not choreographed, and more hand-to-hand combat than sport. the outcomes were not predetermined. He Lincoln, an awesome physical specimen at had a record of over 300 wins and only 6-feet-4, was widely known for his wresone recorded loss in 12 years of wres- tling skills and had only one recorded detling. At 6-foot-4-inches, he towered over feat in a dozen years. …

“In 1860 he was elected President. most of his opponents, and his 185-pound fighting weight made him a lean, mean Lincoln recognized that the Union was threatened by the moral issue of slavery. fighting machine.

During his time, wrestling wasn’t The Civil War began soon after his inauvery organized. It was mostly a show of guration. Lincoln met every crisis with strength. But there were competitions poise and courage, and in January of 1863 where people watched and gambled as the issued the Emancipation Proclamation, toughest men took each other on in a style freeing the slaves. He was reelected in 1864 of wrestling called collar and elbow. Com- and soon had the satisfaction of knowing enemies in the ring are really best friends, and the outlandish stories surrounding the characters are usually not true. However, simply calling wrestling ‘fake’ is like calling an action movie fake. When you

Joke of the Week:

that the Union had been preserved.”

I wonder how many of Abe’s wrestling opponents told people they had once wrestled the President of the United States. As I thought about Abe’s wrestling career, I thought about another instance when someone unknowingly wrestled with someone famous. You can read about the wrestling match in Genesis 32: 24, 25 (VOICE). “Jacob stayed behind, left alone in his distress and doubt. In the twilight of his anguish, an unknown man wrestled with him until daybreak. When the man saw he was not winning the battle with Jacob, he struck him on the hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was thrown out of joint as he continued to wrestle with him.”

Jacob was at a crossroads in his life. He didn’t know what to do. His brother Esau was coming to meet him, and Jacob did not know whether to flee or to face his foe.

Jacob sent his family across the stream and was left alone to think about his history with his brother. At that point, a man confronted him, and they wrestled all night.

Jacob knew he was not wrestling with an ordinary man but God himself. God could have crushed Jacob, but He did not.

Instead, He blessed Jacob and changed his name and course in history.

Gentle Reader, Like Jacob, we too wrestle with decisions, and sometimes, even with God. “God, why did you allow this to happen to me?” “God, why am I struggling so much with this issue?” We’ve all asked these questions at one point or another. If you are wrestling with God today, remember His record. He has never lost, and He never will. He is willing for you to wrestle with Him, but in the end, you must submit. “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the lowly. Humble yourselves, then, under God’s powerful hand, so that he may lift you up at the right time.

Throw all your care upon him, because he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:5-7 (NTE)

I am disappointed that the bank turned down a loan for my Desserts by Drone business. They said my idea was just pie in the sky.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

ALCOHOL continued from page 1 the facility holds concerts in the field, as well as their annual Ouachita Bigfoot Festival & Conference.

They have a stargazing camping event coming up and approximately 1,500 camping sites, according to Alston.

She is already booking for the 2024 Solar Eclipse Festival—events which will probably involve tourists bringing alcohol purchased outside of Polk County and tax revenue lost.

Alston explained that at this time, guests who come out to her zip line farm, located in Ink, bring their own alcohol. “They bring it from other counties, out of state, and even some have bought it from local bootleggers. At least I would be able to serve drinks just like they would at any restaurant. Food will be served. It will in no way be a bar-

August 3, 2022 type atmosphere with drunkards and bar fights. I despise that kind of atmosphere. I don’t condone that type of behavior.”

Alston described herself as a “Karen” when it comes to how she operates her zip line. “I did get ‘Safest Zip Line in the State.’ I am very particular. I go above and beyond with the standards with the zip line, and the rules and regulations set by the ACCT [Association for Challenge Course Technology], which is what the state of Arkansas uses for their own regulations.”

Alston stated she would also “go above and beyond” the rules and regulations set by the Arkansas Alcohol Beverage Control if her permit was approved.

She went on to say that several people had called or texted her, approximately 60 over the period of a couple of days, in support of her

getting a permit. She claims she had not one comment against it. She proceeded to read examples of the messages and provided names of those supporting her, including a former JP for District 5. She mentioned that the people supporting her are all registered voters in Polk County. “[The county] has mentioned something wanting to be a lot like Branson. Well, this is the start of it.”

She also mentioned to the Court that she has donated approximately $5,000 to causes for hungry children throughout Polk County, specifically for children not on free lunches, but on full price or reduced, stating those children and their families have financial hardships as well.

Justice of the Peace Terry Terrell recommended the Court not prolong the reading and forcing them to suspend the ordinance for read-

News 13 ing in August. Instead, he believed they should approve the third and final reading so they could vote on the matter at hand.

The Court did complete the second reading and voted to dispense with the third reading.

Terrell then stated he was against the ordinance and that it was nothing personal. He said, “Where I live, I don’t think the people are in favor of that. If it was just going to be one permit, it wouldn’t be a problem.”

He speculated that if they allowed Alston to have a permit, then they would have an influx of others from around the county wanting to apply.

JP Terry Scott said, “It is just one permit, and probably the only permit we’ll have for no telling how long. It costs a lot of money to get See ALCOHOL continued on page 20

14 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse HSO Celebrates $10K Grant from Petco Love

August 3, 2022

Submitted by Cheryl Murphy

On Saturday, July 23, the Humane Society of the Ouachitas (HSO) of Mena, AR, received a $10,000 grant investment from national nonprofit, Petco Love, during a special celebration at the Fort Smith Petco.

The grant will support HSO’s community spay-neuter program.

(l-r) Petco General Manager Jon Klear; HSO Shelter Director Tina Ball; HSO Board Member JJ Jones; and the Fort Smith Petco team.

(Photo courtesy of HSO)

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HSO’s shelter director, Tina Ball, accepted the grant with much gratitude, knowing this investment will go a long way to help local pet parents receive lifesaving services for their pets. HSO is proud to be a Petco Love Partner.

For appointments for the August spay-neuter clinic, please see the post on hsomena.org

Release the hounds for Jordan’s Way Fundraiser

By Ethan Nahté

The Jordan’s Way Fundraiser for HSO was a fun, fundraising event, and possibly a bit delicious for the dogs, which got treats, and maybe for the humans, some who got plastered in the face with a cream pie…or three.

There were a few teams competing against one another on June 28 during the four-hour livestream event hosted by a very energetic Kris Rotonda.

The first battle was between HSO volunteers against the Pulse Multi-Media crew. What the Pulse team thought was going to be people paying to throw pies at them actually turned out to be the teams being locked up like pound puppies with some very friendly, lovable dogs as the team had to livestream, text or call people on the “outside” to donate “bail money” during a 25-minute

stint to allow the humans to be released.

The Pulse competitors were initially supposed to be general manager Ashley Moore and the new KENA 104.1 FM morning show host Trey Youngdahl, while account executive Jodi Croft was planning to just livestream.

Somehow, Croft got wrangled into a kennel, as well. The Pulse crew ended up raising around $2,000, beating the HSO crew.

The Pulse team got to cream the HSO team with the whipped pies, but there was a bonus that involved raising more money in a quick-round, resulting in Youngdahl being hit with multiple pies, primarily by Croft.

It was a sticky mess, followed up by teams being treated to snow cones from Sassy Squatch.

Overall, the event helped HSO raise around $7,275.00.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

August 3, 2022

Pound puppies needing bail money

Outdoors 15

16 Community

Have you ever been interested in learning about the Daughters of the American Revolution? Are you a patriotic, civic-minded woman who also loves history and volunteering for your community? Then the DAR may be just what you’re searching for.

The James K. Polk Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution will be celebrating our new year with a kick-off event on Saturday, Aug. 6, 10 a.m. - noon at the Ninth Street Ministries building located at 306 Ninth St. in Mena. You are cordially invited to come by for refreshments and to visit with us to learn more about this most worthwhile organization.

Over one million women have joined since the DAR was founded over 125 years ago as a place where we could pursue our passion of promoting and preserving history, encouraging historical education and patriotism in our schools, volunteering in our communities, and honoring those who have served, and are serving, our Nation through our various Veterans programs. Our motto is “God, Home, and Country” and our members take that sentiment to heart.

Pulse

August 3, 2022

Daughters of the American Revolution fall kick-off event Submitted by Carolyn Hannah, NSDAR chapter registrar

THE POLK COUNTY

Daughters across the nation and world contribute millions of community service hours every year. We come from all walks of life, but we all share a common bond of having an ancestor who helped secure the independence of the United States of America. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background and who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible to join.

DAR currently has more than 190,000 members in over 3,000 chapters in the U.S. and abroad. Our local meetings are casual, non-political, and always offer an educational program with the added bonus of making life-long friendships with those with whom we serve.

You can learn more about the amazing history of the DAR and what we are doing to honor our heritage and country by visiting the National Society’s website at https://www.dar.org/. We also encourage anyone interested in DAR to drop by our fall kick-off event and visit with us.

Members will talk to you about what it means to be in the DAR and will walk you through the process of beginning the search of your family history to see if you have a Patriot in your past. Hope to see you there!

Around Town The Disabled American Veterans and Auxiliary will have their monthly meeting Thursday, August 4, at Veterans Park in Acorn. Potluck begins at 6 p.m. Meeting will follow.

The Democrat’s August meeting will be at PaPa’s Mexican Café, 1317 Hwy. 71 South, August 8, 6:30 p.m.

Come early if you plan to eat. We will be working out details for The Beans and Jeans fundraiser of August 15, from 6 - 9 p.m. at the Daisy Room behind Janssen Avenue Florist & Gifts, 800 Janssen Ave. Chris Jones will be our main speaker. Everybody is invited to the Beans & Jeans.

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) 385-2373.

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.

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.

Free summer lunch program for all ages, every Tuesday through August 16 at Janssen Park pavilion from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Sponsored by Mena Presbyterian Church.

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 The Crossing Church, 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn. For information call (479) 234-8366 or (479) 216-3786.

The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4 - 6 p.m., located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call (479) 437-4018.

(l-r) Parliamentarian Era Looney; Chaplin Linda Craig; Historian Shelly Collins; Registrar Carolyn Hanna (in the back); Regent Dotty Kinnun (in the front); Treasurer Deonna Williams; Secretary Brenda Cunningham; 2nd Vice Regent Kathy Hagler; 1st Vice Regent Ann Garrett.

(Photo courtesy of James K. Polk Chapter, NSDAR)

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.

Open House for Louise Durham Elementary is Aug. 11, from 4 – 8 p.m. We are

excited to meet everyone. We encourage all parents and children to attend!

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

The Center will also start having an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney 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.

Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast every Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Mena, 8:00 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend.

St. Agnes Catholic Church will host a food distribution at 203 Eighth St., Thursday, Aug. 4, from 10 a.m.-Noon at 203 8th St. in Mena. Distribution will be at the church office.

Polk County Social Seniors will be meeting at Little Italy 1411 Hwy 71 North on August 9 at 1200 Noon for their monthly meeting. Bring a friend or two and enjoy good food and fellowship.

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.

The First United Methodist Church in Mena is doing a project to help the Humane Society of the Ouachitas. If you would like to help with “The Dog and Cat Days of Summer” project, drop off a bag or two of dry dog or cat food at the church, Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. before August 7th.

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.

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!

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

August 3, 2022

Community 17

Productive forest—protecting water and promoting wildlife workshop

By Ethan Nahté The Polk County Extension Office will be holding a workshop

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

that will look at the “why, what and when to thin” of forestry management; forest management practices to promote water quality; and wildlife management.

The workshop, sponsored in conjunction by the UofA Division of Agriculture Research & Extension office and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), will be held at the Extension Education Building, 211 Dequeen Street, Mena, August 25, 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.. Dinner will be provided.

Please register by calling the Polk County Extension Office at 479-394-6018.

Chris Perales was the fifth winner of The Dog Days of Summer Cool Down 2022 giveaway promotion. Perales signed up at TJ’s Convenience Store. He won a 4-pack of tickets to Magic Springs Theme & Water Park.

See our ad below for details for your chance to win the last 4-pack of tickets to Magic Springs Theme and Water Park. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

18 News

August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Polk County wildlife officers honored

Submitted by AGFC

LITTLE ROCK—Twenty-five Arkansas Game and Fish Commission enforcement officers and a K-9 were recipients of the division’s top honors at a special presentation held at the AGFC Headquarters Auditorium in Little Rock on July 21. Among those honored were two Polk County wildlife officers.

This was the first award ceremony for the AGFC Enforcement Division since 2019, as the last two years were suspended because of COVID-19 protocols. Awards were presented

by AGFC Director Austin Booth, AGFC Enforcement Chief Col. Brad Young, Major Nakia Crims and Major Brian Aston.

“Duty is a calling, it is a heavy burden, and it is an honor,” director Booth said. “It is one of the greatest privileges that I have to say that you wear that duty not with self-pity or martyrdom, but you wear it well.

You wear it with excellence, with commitment to everyone else in this agency. Today is about celebrating not only these officers, but the entire Enforcement Division and the impact it has on law and order, the impact on public safety throughout

the state, and most importantly the impact it has on conservation.”

Seven officers received the Warden’s Star for acts of heroism involving unusual situations or occurrences that demanded immediate action, exceptional tactics or ingenuity to overcome.

Cpl. Ray Hines and Wildlife Officer Chris Crawford were among

those who received the Warden’s Star recognition. The two were honored for their role in a swift water rescue in 2020. In June of that year, flash flooding in Polk County had swept a vehicle 200 yards from a bridge.

The officers found the individual’s vehicle, which was completely submerged. The occupant had managed to get to a nearby tree, where he was

Cpl. Ray Hines and Wildlife Officer Chris Crawford were among those who received the Warden’s Star recognition during a ceremony hosted by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission on July 21. The two were honored for their role in a swift water rescue in Polk County in 2020. Pictured from left to right are AGFC Director Austin Booth, Crawford, Hines and AGFC Chief of Enforcement Brad Young.

(Photo submitted by Michael Wintroath/AGFC)

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

clinging for his life. Officers Hines and Crawford swam to the distressed man, secured a life vest to him and a rope to the tree he was in, and safely guided him to shore.

Hines and Crawford also received Certificates of Commendations for their fast response in rescuing a man trapped underneath his tractor, which had crushed his leg.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Puzzles 19

August 3, 2022

08.03.22

08.03.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 07.27.22

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Do you have room in your heart and home for a shelter pet?

Meet Cookie!

Calico kitty named Cookie is waiting at HSO just for you! This delightful girl is multicolored, and the tip of her tail is white. Cookie is good with other cats. She is litter box trained.

Plan a birthday party for her in October (10/01/2019). Who could resist this Cookie!

All animals at HSO are current on their vaccinations and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

If not already spayed/neutered, there may be a short delay between when you select this pet and when they are ready to go home.

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

20 Classifieds

August 3, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

- LEGAL NOTICE -

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

T0803

PUBLIC NOTICE

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.

T0921

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.

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Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

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Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0817

- YARD SALE -

Multi-Family garage sale. Tons of kids clothes, home décor, kitchen items, crafting needs, knick-knacks, tools and more! August 6, 8 a.m. - ???, 1131 Crescent Drive, Mena T0803

The following items from Polk County will be sold to the highest bidder at a public auction held at 2101 Finks Street in Mena, Arkansas on Saturday August 13th, 2022 starting at 10:00 AM. Road Department items: Approximately 25-30 assorted used plastic culverts, 7000 watt Generac enclosed natural gas electric generator and controls, several used truck tires, several large steel pipe cut-offs, and other misc.

Sheriff’s Department items: 2006 Nissan 4-door Altima, 1999 Ford 350 flatbed truck, 2003 Mazda Tribute, 2001 Ford F150 extended cab truck.

- EMPLOYMENT -

- FOR RENT 1 BR & 2 BR Houses for rent in Mena. Call (479) 243-5292 or (479) 216-4039 T0727

$Sell$Your $$ $ Stuff With The Pulse!

Applicants Must: 1. Be at least 21 years of age 2. Have a High School Diploma (minimum) 3. Pass FBI background check (Please Call for Instructions) Please bring I-9 acceptable documentation, Proof of High School Diploma or College Transcript.

ALCOHOL continued from page 13 a private club started. I understand that most of y’all—us—are concerned with what your church friends are going to think about it if you vote for this.

“It actually has absolutely, at this point, nothing to do with alcohol.

This is typical politics. The State Alcohol Control Board is the one that gives this permit. We don’t give this permit. We authorize them to give it if they want to. They’ve got to go inspect and make up their mind.

Then they are the ones who police it. If something’s being done wrong, they police it.

“Your friends know how you are and how you think. It’s actually none of their business if you want to go home at night and have a beer; if you want to go home at night and have a glass of wine, for the stomach’s sake,” Scott said, his hand out in inclusion, gesturing to the entire Court. “It’s none of their business.

Alcohol is an individual thing for each individual. I don’t want to see everybody going out and around getting drunk, making fools of themselves and all that. What I do want is this lady to have an opportunity to better herself with maybe a better living. That’s what this whole thing is about.

“George Jones came up with a song. The song was ‘Choices.’ In our life, we have choices to make. And we live and we die with the choices we make. If somebody wants to get on to me if I vote for this, and say,

WHEN NEWS MATTERS, WE’RE HERE TO KEEP YOU INFORMED. MyP U L S E NEWS.COM

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse ‘You’re a hypocrite,’ or ‘You’re a this or you’re a that,” I’m going to tell them, ‘You judge me. I’m going to let God judge you.’

“My concern, right now, is an individual in this county wanting to better themselves—not wanting to start a beer joint. I want to go home tonight and not wake up in the middle of the night and say, ‘Did I really vote that way?’”

JP Margo Kimp added, “My point of view is I’m trying to promote tourism in Polk County. A lot of these tourists who come here, and probably to her zip line place, are used to buying beer and wine at their local grocery store and gas station. If you don’t want to drink beer or wine, then don’t do it, but let these businesses try to sell something and make some money and raise some revenue for our county.”

JP Mitchell Tidwell concurred, providing an example with the E-Z Mart right across the Polk/Sevier County line. “Watch all the cars drive down there, load up, then head back to Polk County. Sevier County is wet. You can buy alcohol in any convenience store or Walmart.”

Terrell stated that he did not believe the people who voted for him during his 24 years as a JP would want him to vote yes for the ordinance.

JP Penny Kesterson, who is fulfilling the unexpired term of her deceased husband Basil Kesterson who passed away while serving as JP for District 9, mentioned that he would not have voted yes for the ordinance. “He said that if people went into restaurants and ordered liquor, they wouldn’t sell it to you if they See ALCOHOL continued on page 23

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

August 3, 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 July 25, 2022 Deputies responded to a runaway juvenile being located.

July 26, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 29 near Hatfield in reference to a verbal domestic dispute.

July 27, 2022 Alexander Cernoga, 34 of Cove was arrested on a charge of Disorderly Conduct after officers were dispatched to a residence on Hatton Lane near Wickes in reference to a disturbance.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a property dispute.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 37 near Potter in reference to a physical domestic disturbance leading to the arrest of Brandon Falls, 36 of Mena on charges of 3rd Degree Domestic Battery and Possession of a Schedule I or II Controlled Substance.

July 28, 2022 Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a violation of a no contact order.

Deputies were dispatched to a location on Hwy 246 near Hatfield in reference to someone walking down the middle of the road leading to the

arrest of Codie Shifflett, 29 of Cove on charges of Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct.

July 29, 2022 Sara Hirshfield, 28 of Little Rock was arrested on a misdemeanor warrant for Theft of Property.

Deputies were dispatched to a business near Cove leading to the arrest of Windal Loyd, 41 of Mena on charges of Criminal Trespass and Refusal to Submit to Arrest as well as six Misdemeanor Warrants for Failure to Appear.

A traffic stop for expired tags led to the arrest of James Miller, 51 of Cove on charges of DWI and Failure to Register Vehicle.

Marcos Parra, 29 of Grannis was arrested by an officer with the Arkansas Highway Patrol on charges of DWI, Driving on a Suspended DL and Speeding and a Misdemeanor Warrant for Failure to Pay Fines.

Deputies were dispatched to an area on Polk 618 near Board Camp in reference to an ATV fire.

Deputies responded to a residence on Race Lane near Mena in reference to an altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Police 21

two runaway juveniles being located. July 27 A report of arson was taken at a July 31, 2022 residence on Ridge Avenue.

Larry Garrett, 42 of Mena was arrested on a charge of Commercial July 28 Burglary.

A report of theft was taken at a Timothy Gormady, 57 of Mena residence on Evans Circle. was arrested on a Misdemeanor Nathan Hoover, 21, was served Warrant for 3rd Degree Battery. with three warrants at Executive Inn. Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Bald Eagle Lane near July 29 Cherry Hill in reference to a stolen A report of a vehicle accident was motorcycle. taken at Mena Ford.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Morgan Lane near Acorn July 30 in reference to property being vanA missing person’s report was takdalized. en at the Mena Police Department.

Deputies responded to a report of Later that evening the individual an ATV accident on Polk 61 near was found.

Board Camp.

Bobby May, 34 was issued a citation for Violation of a Protection Polk County Sheriff ’s Office order and Criminal Trespass after a worked 4 vehicle accidents this week. call from 1325 Hwy South.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated Inmates, with 11 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS July 24 Donna Cheshire, 55, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

A report of discharging a firearm in the city limits was taken on 1st Street.

July 30, 2022 July 25 Deputies were dispatched to a A report of harassment was taken residence on Weeping Willow Lane from a walk-in complainant. near Board Camp in reference to a structure fire.

July 26 Deputies responded to a report of No reports.

22 News

Pulse First Saturday Fun Day at the Forest Heritage Center

August 3, 2022

Hogspore News Shrimping at Lake Surprise

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson I was up at Lake Surprise, a salt water inland sea, doing some fishing and decided to try shrimping. I got two buckets of shrimp and covered them with ice. When I got home in an hour and a half, there was still ice on the rascals. Now comes the work, cleaning the scavengers. I boiled them for a couple of minutes and spent all afternoon shelling and de-veining them. Don’t make me explain de-veining. Folks know that it ain’t a vein I’m pulling out.

Most out-of-town folks aren’t aware of Lake Surprise and the shrimp. We don’t sell our shrimp. We eat em. So, if you’re in the area and see a feller on the side of the road selling them out of a station wagon, you gotta reckon that it’s a long way to the ocean from these parts. The shrimp you buy off him are gonna smell a lot like bleach.

Morton Trubletoof ’s birthday is coming up. At least, he says it is. He’s real partial to pies; I asked him, “Do want a pie or a cake for your party?”

We always bring a cake for the birthday feller at Tony’s Barbershop.

He thought it over, and said, “I do love pie, but I also love cake. Maybe we can do a compromise. You could get me a Pike. It would be part pie and part cake. A Birthday Pike, with tartar sauce frosting, sounds tasty to me.”

Where am I gonna find a Pike? I can’t pick it up at Smartins Grocery while I’m buying tartar sauce. The boys and I will have to ante up to get a fish shipped from Maine. Then, we gotta cook the dern thing. At least we can play with the dry ice once the packaged Pike hits the porch. How are we gonna get the candles to stick in the fish? “Make a wish and blow out your fish.” I gotta remember to never ask Morton what he wants.

Mumford Pickens is back in the news with his comments. He bribed me with a full quart mason jar of last Tuesday’s product. Here’s his comment, “In every century there have been plenty of pretty women … and many more lying men.”

Nashville Update: Hank Ren, Ebben Flow’s brother, has a new country song out, “When Chatting Leads to Cheating.”

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

THE POLK COUNTY

BROKEN BOW, OKL, Enjoy a day filled with educational activities, animals, snow cones, woodturning and more. On Saturday, August 6. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors to the Forest Heritage Center (FHC) will be able to experience an array of activities and try food offered by local businesses.

Everyone will gather in front of the Forest Heritage Center Museum and be surrounded by concessions from the park, Hochatown attractions, local artisans, a historical demonstrator, and an educator from the Museum of the Red River. There will be animals to pet, delicious macarons and piping hot food, and crafts along with free seedlings.

Visitors are always welcome to a self-guided tour around the museum as well as encouraged to explore many of the park’s beautiful hiking trails. Don’t forget to ride the train, take an exhilarating trip on the zipline, make time for a game of golf, kayak, fish, or enjoy a refreshing dip at the swim beach.

For more information about this

event or other monthly activities, contact the Forest Heritage Center at 580-494-6497 or email fhc@ ag.ok.gov.

This exhibit is made possible by the Forest Heritage Center Advisory Board, Oklahoma Forestry Services, Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department, and members of the Forest Heritage Center Association.

The Oklahoma Forest Heritage Center Museum is dedicated to capturing and sharing the history of the forestry in the state.

Through education, events and exhibits the museum tells the history of Southeast Oklahoma’s forests, as well as the positive impact of forests and its products on daily life.

Located in Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow, the museum was established in 1976 and is maintained through the collaborative effort of a non-profit community board of directors, Oklahoma Forestry Services and Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.

Public scoping period scheduled for an environmental assessment analyzing e-bike use on National Forest Service trails

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – (Aug. 1, 2022) Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests officials are requesting public input on an environmental assessment evaluating e-bike use on sample Forest trails.

The trails being evaluated are the Womble Trail on the Ouachita National Forest and the Syllamo and Upper Buffalo Trails on the Ozark-St. Francis

National Forest. In addition, the environmental assessment will develop a framework to evaluate e-bike use that may occur on select trails in the future.

A description of the project, including maps, background, purpose and need, the proposed action, and how to sign up for the project mailing list is available online at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=62170/

To be fully considered, comments as they relate to the proposed action and identification of any issues about the anticipated effects from the proposed action are requested through Aug. 31, 2022. Comments should be as specific as possible, be within the scope of the proposed action, have a direct relationship to the proposed action, and must include supporting reasons for the Re-

sponsible Official to consider. Please visit the project website for information on how to submit comments.

Additional project information and updates will be posted on the project website or can be obtained by contacting Ouachita National Forest Recreation, Planning, Heritage and Wilderness Staff Officer, Chris Ham, at christopher.ham@usda.gov.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

ALCOHOL continued from page 20 see you are getting intoxicated. But in the county, if these people have a five or six or 10-mile drive, they’re going to be driving with liquor in their system. That’s my concern.

When they leave there, how far do they have to drive to get home using county highways—unless they’re located on the premises, spend the night on the premises, and it not become an issue of a head-on collision. … I don’t have a problem with individuals who want to drink. Offer them a shuttle home.”

Sheriff Scott Sawyer was asked if he had an opinion. He replied, “Let people take a vote. We’re here for the people of Polk County, to protect and serve.”

After much debate, the ordinance was put to a vote, failing 7-3. Sponsors Scott and Kimp, along with Mitchell Tidwell were the only JPs to vote in favor of the ordinance.

Those voting Nay were JPs Terrell, Kesterson, Chris Daniel, Jim Neugent, Levi Ellison, Troy Lunsford and Tawana Gilbert. JP Tommy Floyd was not in attendance.

Following the meeting, Alston said, “I knew how it was going to go.

I was already expecting it. I wasn’t going to sit back. I showed up to speak my part. If they understand it, that’s on them. If they don’t…

As a few of the JPs who voted against the alcohol ordinance exited the building, they expressed “No hard feelings” to Alston, while others pointedly avoided her.

Alston said she had talked about her facility and what the plans were at the first meeting with the Court, going into great detail about it.

“Ninety-five percent of the peo-

August 3, 2022 ple who come out there are tourists.

My experience with the drunks out there on the road and riding ATVs have been locals. I have never had any problems with any tourists with any appearance of inebriation.”

Alston has hope that the petition being circulated by the Polk County Growth and Advancement will gain enough certified signatures to get the “wet county” option to be added to the ballot for the general election on November 8. If so, it could be what she needs to strengthen her cause and try once again to get her alcohol permit.

“Anybody who is for or against it, sign the petition and vote against it, because the next time it comes up there’s going to be a lot more people in the area to vote for it than this time around.

Under New Business, item A was an ordinance to appropriate to county accounts and make lineitem transfers for year 2022. The discussion included the quote to replace the antenna and line on a tower located at Eagle Point, which is utilized by the fire department. Bad connections are causing issues with the department’s radios.

JP Chris Daniel stated that the hold-up was due to waiting for supplies related to the tower, specifically a back order for coaxial cable. The quote from Arkansas Valley Communications, located in Russellville, Arkansas, amounts to $4,616.77.

The ordinance passed unanimously.

Item B was the inventory deletions for the month of July, which consisted of a Glock 21 Gen4 from the sheriff ’s department.

The meeting was then adjourned.

News 23

24 Education The Ouachita River School District has announced their new meal prices for the upcoming school yer.

They have also opened the link to the online application.

Dependent upon qualifications, listed below are the rates for the ORSD 2022-2023 Student School Meal Prices: • Free Breakfast: No charge per meal Lunch: No charge per meal • Reduced Breakfast: 30 cents per meal Lunch: 40 cents per meal • Paid Breakfast: $1.00 per meal Lunch: $ 2.00 per meal

1, for the 2022-2023 school year application to be completed.

Also, if you qualify for “reduced” or “paid” meals, you can access the EZ School Pay link to pay and track your child’s meal charges status.

Link on ORSD website: https:// www.ezschoolpay.com/Login.aspx?District=9485702 For more information, contact the following for assistance: • Acorn Elementary School and Acorn High School Contact: ORSD Administration Office - Tammi Faught at 479-3942348 or tfaught@orsd.k12.ar.us • Oden Maddox Elementary School and Oden High School Parents, the ORSD EZ Meal OnContact: Oden Schools - Crystal line Application is available for you Hill at 870-326-4311 or chill@orsd. to complete and process your ap- k12.ar.us plication. Only one application per ORSD also announced that both family is needed. the Acorn and Oden campuses will Link on ORSD website: https:// be providing basic school supplies secure.ezmealapp.com/Applica- for students. Students will still need tionScreen.aspx to bring their own backpack and The link opened Monday, August water bottle.

Mena High School schedules 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

COUNTY PULSE

479.243.9600

Pulse

August 3, 2022

ORSD EZ Meal Online Application now active

WANTED

THE POLK COUNTY

Mena High School schedules are available in Home Access Center (HAC), and if changes are needed, the deadline for choice changes is August 19.

The email to students on July 25 from Shannon Lyle has a link for schedule change requests. https://hac20.esp.k12.ar.us/ HomeAccess20/Account/L ogO n ? R e t u r n Ur l = % 2 f Hom e Ac cess20

UCA announces spring 2022 graduates

CONWAY, AR (07/26/2022)—The University of Central Arkansas held spring commencement on Friday, May 6, and Saturday, May 7, 2022, in the Farris Center on campus.

The university conferred 1,032 undergraduate and 282 graduate degrees and certificates from the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; College of Business; College of Education; College of Health and Behavioral Sciences; and College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

• Nathaniel Aleshire of Mena, Arkansas, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts.

• Rachel Elisabeth Murr of Mena, Arkansas, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts.

• Charity Cameron of Mena, Arkansas, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science.

• Whitley Nicole Cline of Mena, Arkansas, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science.

• Emiley Hope Sorge of Mena, Arkansas, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science.

2022 Sales Tax Holiday

By Ethan Nahté

School season is returning and it’s that time of year for the Sales Tax Holiday.

According to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, the 2022 Sales Tax Holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 7.

What items qualify as exempt from sales tax for the Sales Tax Holiday?

• Clothing and footwear if the sales price is less than $100 per item • Clothing accessories and equipment if the sales price is less than $50 per item • School supplies

• School art supplies • School instructional materials • Electronic devices commonly used by a student in the course of study The State of Arkansas will hold its sales tax holiday allowing shoppers the opportunity to purchase qualifying items free of state and local sales or use tax.

All retailers are required to participate and may not charge tax on items that are legally tax-exempt during the Sales Tax Holiday.

A FAQ document is available for viewing at https://www. dfa.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/exciseTaxOffice/Sales_ Tax_Holiday_FAQs_for_Consumers_4-1-2022.pdf/.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

WGU names Allen Travis as Strategic Partnerships Manager to Oklahoma

TULSA, OK (Aug. 1, 2022) Online, nonprofit university Western Governors University (WGU) has announced Allen Travis as Strategic Partnerships Manager serving Oklahoma and Arkansas. Travis has served in various capacities with WGU over the past eight years, including enrollment counselor for teachers college and continuing graduate specialist.

Travis comes to WGU with more than 10 years’ experience as an account manager and strategic partnerships management in K-12

education, including school districts, regional centers, state departments of education and on-demand, online teacher and leader training.

In his new role, Travis will develop corporate partnerships aligned to WGU’s degree offerings and support educational and career pathways for students in Oklahoma and Arkansas.

“We are extremely pleased to have Allen join our South Region operations team as a Strategic Partnerships Manager,” said Dr. Manny Gonzalez, Regional Director, WGU South Region. “His proven ability to cultivate long-term working relationships with school district administrators is important in building partnerships in the education market and in his former role in enrollment, he brings firsthand knowledge regarding student needs,” he said.

Before joining WGU, Travis was a professional development advisor and account manager for a school administration software provider, serving more than nine states, an account manager for England Logistics, and a regional sales manager for Educational Impact, Inc. He also worked as an ESL teacher for Teach Overseas and Baltic State Technical University. Travis holds a B.A. in Communications from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa.

Designed for working adults, WGU is a fully accredited, nonprofit online university offering more than 60 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in healthcare, IT, business, and K-12 education. The university has more than 136,000 students enrolled nationwide, including more than 17,000 in the South Region and 1,900 across Oklahoma and Arkansas.

August 3, 2022

Education 25

ORSD Leadership Team attend AAEA Summer Conference

Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators (AAEA) 47th Ouachita River School District Annual Summer Conference on July Administration attended the 25-26 at the Statehouse Convention

Center in Little Rock, Arkansas.

This year’s conference theme “Love Public Education: Changing the Narrative”.

(l-r) Acorn High School Principal Dewayne Taylor, ORSD Curriculum Coordinator/Acorn Preschool Director Davelynn Lane, Acorn Elementary Principal Beth Jackson, ORSD Federal Programs Coordinator/Instructional Facilitator Kathy Medford, ORSD Superintendent Jerrall Strasner, Oden Schools’ Principal Elicia Bergum, and ORSD Assistant Superintendent William Edwards. (Photo courtesy of ORSD)

26 Education

August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

First United Methodist assisting with school supplies

Summer Loan Special Make great memories on your new ATV/UTV with a loan from First Financial Bank.* Call or stop by today!

• • • •

3.99% APR Finance your new ATV/UTV at FFB! No Closing Costs or Fees at Origination Terms available at 36, 48, and 60 months *Must be used for an ATV/UTV purchase. No down payment required, Loan must be fully amortized, rate may not increase after origination.

In the Business of YOU. Member FDIC | www.ffb1.com | @FFBank1 600 HWY 71 S | Mena, AR | 479-394-3552

The First United Methodist Church in Mena is helping The Head Start Program on Pine Street with some back-to-school needs: Glue (stick or liquid) Play dough Crayons Markers Dry erase Markers Folders Notebooks There are also 24 Early Head Start

students ages 6 weeks - 2 years old.

They use appropriate age markers and crayons.

If you would like to donate to this wonderful program, bring items to the church at 501 Ninth Street before August 15. There will be a basket in the Fellowship Hall for donations, or you can leave them in the church office Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more info call 234-5002.

Fun activities for kids who love dinosaurs

(StatePoint) Have a little dinosaur enthusiast in your life? If you’re looking for new and creative ways to keep your little one entertained, try these fun dino-themed activities:

• Make dino treats: Use a dinosaur cookie cutter set to bake cookies into different prehistoric shapes, like brontosauruses, pterodactyls and velociraptors. This can be a fun way to let kids show off their knowledge by identifying the different types of dinosaurs and listing fun facts about each one. They can even decorate the cookies to add realistic details.

• Infuse dino fun into playtime: A fun line-up of toys from VTech can totally transform playtime, letting kids stomp into the cool and crazy world of dinosaurs. These Switch & Go toys quickly transform from fearsome dino to sleek vehicle and include ultra-cool effects like fiery lights with a lightning trail and fun, roaring sounds. The Switch & Go Velociraptor Jet starts as a ferocious raptor and turns into a propeller disc-launching jet with an animated pilot. Kids can pit the Velociraptor Jet against the T-Rex Muscle Car for tough competition or the T-Rex Race Car for

ultra-speed, or choose from other dino-vehicles in the Switch & Go line.

• Take a field trip: Take a trip to the nearest science museum or museum of natural history to explore fascinating exhibits and get a close-up look at fossils and skeletons. Learn what dinosaurs ate, where and when they lived and other fun facts. From the gentle brontosaurus to the terrifying Tyrannosaurus rex, some exhibitions even feature animatronic dinosaurs that move and behave in the way scientists believe they once did.

• Craft dino masks: With a few supplies you have around the house, kids can make colorful and creative dinosaur masks. Paper plate masks are always a fun and simple option and require no more than markers or paint, safety scissors, something adhesive, such as glue or tape, and string or elastic to secure the mask. Whether you create your own design or follow a tutorial online, this activity is a great idea for both birthday parties and just everyday crafting fun.

From delicious treats to cool new toys, there are many ways you can embrace your child’s love of dinosaurs at home and in your community.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

News 27

August 3, 2022

Hochatown files additional lawsuit in District Court

Submitted by Shellye Copeland

Idabel, Okla.- As indicated by counsel last week, petitioners for Hochatown have moved forward and filed legal documents in McCurtain County District Court to compel the McCurtain County Board of Commissioners to act on the communities’ Petition for Incorporation.

Today’s filing [July 26, 2022] is in addition to Hochatown’s legal request, July 19, 2022, in Oklahoma City asking the Oklahoma Supreme Court to assume original jurisdiction to hear the case. Hochatown’s Attorneys Lysbeth George and Bob Burke indicated then they would file both places to “cover all the bases.”

State law requires the County Commissioners to determine, within thirty (30) days after a Petition

The Board of McCurtain County Commissioners is more than 90 days delinquent.

Hochatown delivered a Petitioners for Hochatown Todd McDanial, Dian Jordan, and Chad of Sargent. Sargent stated, “This is history in the making and another step Notice Intent to forward in our efforts to allow Hochatown residents to have the kind of municipal services that help keep folks safe.”

(Photo by Brad Box) Incorporate to Commisfor Incorporation is presented, if the petition has complied with the law sioners on March 24, 2022.

The Oklahoma Tax Commisthat governs incorporation of towns.

If the petition is sufficient, the com- sion has estimated that as much as missioners shall call a special elec- $800,000 in municipal tax revenue tion and put the issue on the ballot is being lost for each month that the and allow Hochatown residents to commissioners delay calling a special election for the voters in Hochavote. town. It is estimated that 25,000 peo-

ple are in the Hochatown area each weekend increasing the public safety risk because of the lack of adequate law enforcement and full-time fire protection.

“The residents of Hochatown deserve the right to determine their own destiny. If they want to incorporate as a town and provide basic municipal services to residents and businesses, no one should stand in their way. The law says the commissioners SHALL determine the sufficiency of the Petition for Incorporation. It is not a discretionary duty, it is an absolute duty. That is why we are asking the Oklahoma Supreme Court and the District Court of McCurtain County to order the commissioners to fulfill their statutory duty and act,” Burke said.

28 News

August 3, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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