Pulse THE POLK COUNTY
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December 1, 2021
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New manager appointed at Nidec
INSIDE:
experience at a managerial level with HE&M Saw. “My goal is to make this plant as profAfter 22 years of dedication to Nidec itable as possible,” he said. Motor Corporation, Jim Stroope has Previously working in the Tulsa area, decided to retire, leaving the managerial Glover also commented on the friendmantle to Mike Glover. liness of Mena’s community, saying, “I Nidec is a Japanese manufacturer think that there’s a great group of peoand distributor of electric motors. Their ple here. Mena is a great and friendly products are found in hard-disk drives, town.” electric appliances, automobiles and Stroop commented on the coming commercial and manufacturing equipyears with the new manager. “The fument. The company has the largest ture of this plant is very, very positive,” global market share for the tiny spindle motors that power hard-disk drives. Jim Stroope shaking hands with his successor, he said. “We are growing. We are hirNidec Motor Corporation has 10 Mike Glover. (Submitted photo) ing.” Nidec is currently hiring for IT sumanufacturing facilities located in the pervisor and a machine operator, as U.S., Mexico, UK and China. Accord- County residents. The future continues ing to their official website, they employ to be bright for the plant, with the new well as a wide variety of other positions, with varying levels of experience. To more than 22,000 people worldwide. The manager at the helm. Glover is confidently taking over, com- learn more or apply, visit https://acim. plant in Mena solidified itself in Mena’s community, employing hundreds of Polk ing out of 30 years of manufacturing nidec.com/motors/about-us/careers. By Trey Youngdahl
Solar Power & Poultry
Winter Awareness Week
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Manasco receives 10-year sentence by Patrick Massey
“Adopt A Kid” Christmas
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A Mena man was sentenced this month to 10 years in prison for his involvement in a DWI-related accident that claimed the life of a woman in 2019. According to records in the Howard County Circuit Court, 23-year-old Chance Manasco of Mena appeared before a jury on Tuesday, Nov. 16 on felony counts of first-degree battery and negligent homicide while operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The charges stem from an incident that occurred Feb. 2, 2019. According
to the Arkansas State Police, Manasco was traveling on State Highway 84 that night with three passengers in a Chevrolet Traverse. Reports at the time indicated Manasco was traveling nearly 90 mph when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to run off the roadway and overturn numerous times. One of the passengers, a young woman named Rachel Norman, was killed in the single-vehicle accident. A second passenger was severely injured. On Tuesday, a Howard County jury heard both evidence against Manasco and his defense, finding him guilty on both charges. Manasco was then sen-
tenced to 10 years within the Arkansas Department of Corrections on all charges with 286 days credit applied for jail time served.
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December 1, 2021
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Solar energy provider reaches out to Polk County poultry industry By Patrick Massey
A solar installation company recently reached out to poultry growers in Mena in an effort to bring solar power options to the poultry industry. Solar Integrated Roofing Corp., a solar power and roofing systems installation company, met with a group of Polk County producers to explain how solar power could benefit them and other contract poultry growers throughout the nation. “In our beta program to test [the poultry grower] market, we sent a team to Mena, Arkansas, a rural town heavily populated with poultry farms,” said Pablo Diaz, CEO of USA Solar Networks and President of So-
600 HWY 71 S | Mena, AR | 479-394-3552
THE POLK COUNTY
lar Integrated Roofing Corp. “In our initial visit, we met with six business owners to explain how a solar system could save cost for their business. We signed development agreements with four of them, with contracts totaling over $2.5 million dollars.” USA Solar Networks, a subsidiary of Solar Integrated Roofing Corp., launched the new sales program to explain how U.S. poultry growers can transition to solar and alternative energy solutions for their energy-intensive operations. The poultry farm industry in the United States includes over 233,000 poultry farms that generate revenue of over $40 billion dollars annually.
See POULTRY continued on page 4
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Letters 3
December 1, 2021
Radio - Print - Web 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com
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Our Team: Ashley Smith - General Manager Ethan Nahté - Production Manager Trey Youngdahl - Reporter / Photographer Patrick Massey - Contributing Reporter John Russell - Graphic Design Curt Teasdale - Programmer / On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Jodi Croft - Account Executive Ariel Varner - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff: Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Edward Werkhoven The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000. MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly. POLICY: The publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of Pulse Multi-Media and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Pulse Multi-Media and The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be prepaid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Your Pulse! Letter to the Editor: The trial of Kyle Rittenhouse is over, and a verdict reached by a jury of his peers. No matter where you may stand on the verdict, it is one of the things that has always made our country different and better in so many respects from so many other countries, the right to a fair trial. During our history, innocent people have been convicted, and the guilty let go free. Our system is not perfect but is at least fair and should be impartial. That being said, was this a fair trial or were there efforts to prejudice the outcome by the news coverage by the mainstream media? Words are powerful and can cloud facts and make some come to a forgone conclusion. From the outset, Rittenhouse was labeled a vigilante, a term most consider in a negative light. His acts seem to support that label. The persons deceased were labeled victims, a word that implies innocent. Facts at hand do not clearly show that to be true, either. I did not glue myself to the TV every moment but hit the highlights. I never heard it asked if any of the three [who were] shot had a cellphone and had they called 911? Seems that the act of vigilantes would be to take on the duties of law enforcement by stopping Rittenhouse. I do not think he had fired his weapon until they charged him. Had he not put himself in that position they would not have felt the need to charge him either. Two wrongs did not make a right. I cannot help but feel that the AR-15 (his rifle) was on trial as much as anything else and that there was an agenda. Who was the adult that provided him a weapon? Did I miss the news conference where law enforcement asked the public to come out, armed, and help? Rit-
tenhouse became part of the problem not part of the solution. His acts drew from the strained resources of law enforcement. Again, I am not questioning the verdict handed down by the jury. I am only asking that you listen carefully to the words and labels given by the mainstream media and ask yourself if you are being manipulated. Ask yourself if there is an agenda. Ask yourself if there is balance. And ask yourself, after hearing or reading the story, if your gut tells you what you hear is all there is to the story. My job, before retirement, required that I wear a uniform, and I did so with pride. I was off duty, in civilian clothes, and ran into a lady I had seen numerous times, but only when in uniform. When I saw her, with her husband, I smiled and greeted her by name. I could tell that she did not immediately recognize me, so I offered my name...Mickie. She then smiled and I could tell she recognized me, and then said, “Sorry...I did not recognize you with clothes on,” when she clearly meant to say she did not recognize me in civilian clothes and not in uniform. It was embarrassing, but then after turning red, she clarified her statement. My point is this, words have meaning and can be used for good and bad. Say what you mean and mean what you say. The media at one time did that. Hope they find their way back. Again, I thank you for giving me a forum to express my thoughts no matter that you agree or disagree. Kindest regards,
Ronald Goss, Mena, U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran, Retired Virginia Beach Police Department
394-1938
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December 1, 2021 POULTRY continued from page 2 Electricity is often the second largest expense for farms that require extensive lighting, ventilation, heating, cooling and feed lines. Company officials say the new program allows farmers to take advantage of alternative energy benefits to power their operations, including federal tax subsidies available to businesses, reduced or eliminated high utility costs, and the potential to increase cashflow over a 25-year period. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Energy for American Program (REAP) can help
THE POLK COUNTY
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farmers reduce energy costs. Under this program farmers are eligible to receive a grant for up to 25 percent of the solar project cost. “The poultry industry has long been neglected by the solar industry despite being large consumers of electric power,” said Diaz. “Their high electric costs make these farmers ideal candidates for the solar energy solutions we provide.” Company officials said the coming months will see another USA Solar Networks team returning to Arkansas and neighboring states to offer its solar power options. For more information, visit their website at solarintegratedroofing.com.
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Politics 5
December 1, 2021
From the
State House of Representatives nesses in Arkansas. Veterans Small businesses are the own 9.3%, and racial minorities heartbeat of our neighborhoods and the lifeblood of our own 12.8%. local economy. When you shop at small In Arkansas, small businessbusinesses, you are doing business with someone who took a es make up the majority of the chance on their dreams. The business landscape, at 99.3% employees are likely personalof all businesses in the state. This equates to 258,552 busiJohn Maddox ly invested in the products or nesses. Small businesses can services they are selling. That be found in every corner of our state. often means they can provide more Small Business Saturday is the day af- specific product expertise and a perter Black Friday. It is a day to celebrate sonalized shopping experience. Your small purchase can make a big and support small businesses and what they do for communities. If you are difference this year. Our small business looking for a way to find unique gifts owners are emerging from one of the while also supporting the local econo- most challenging economic times in my, Small Business Saturday is the per- our history. fect day to do so. Despite the difficulties posed by the When you shop locally, you sup- past year, Arkansas was recently ranked port your neighbors and community. no. 2 for states with the most pandemLocal businesses are owned by people ic-proof small businesses. Personal fiwho live in our towns. They go to our nance website WalletHub compared all churches, donate to our Little League 50 states and the District of Columbia’s teams, and show up to parent/teacher small business environment, determining which states’ small businesses were conferences. It is estimated that for every $100 the most pandemic-proof and had the spent in a local business, $68 dollars re- greatest potential to bounce back. Your circulates and remains in the local econ- continued support helped to make this omy. Small businesses employ 47.1% of a reality. We encourage you to support Arkansas employees, or 491,383 people small businesses in your community total. Women own 43.1% of small busi- this holiday season and year-round.
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 cies have experienced difficulState agencies have experity hiring new staff, including enced the same problems as the Human Services Departmany companies with diffiment and the Department of culty hiring entry-level emParks, Heritage and Tourism. ployees. Employees could receive Several agencies have conraises as high as $5,000 a year, tacted the state Office of Perdepending on their duties and sonnel Management (OPM) to report a difficulties at- Larry Teague their job’s slot in the state pay grid. tracting applicants for availIn their request for authority to raise able positions. OPM put together a proposal that entry-level salaries, officials at the allows for higher entry-level salaries Department of Finance and Adminfor all state agencies and presented it istration (DFA) mentioned the presto legislators in June. sures on the Office of Child Support A broad approach was proposed, Enforcement. The office has about 600 rather than simply raising salaries employees in 27 offices around Arkanat a few specific agencies. OPM was sas. aware of the possibility of a ripple Their work is high volume and deeffect that would cause employees to mands acute accuracy. They prepare leave one agency to work at another. documents for legal cases that are of“This becomes particularly critical ten contested by one of the parties in a at the county levels where everyone divorce or child support case. tracks the salaries of others,” OPM Employees must communicate proofficials wrote in a letter to the Leg- fessionally with parents of children in islative Council’s Personnel Subcom- disputed cases, and with businesses that employ those parents, officials mittee. “There has been increased media within law enforcement, the judicial attention regarding salary increases system and other state agencies. The work is “often high stress due of jobs within the national economy requiring less strenuous quali- to the subject matter and the level of fications and duties,” OPM officials conflict that sometimes exists in the families we serve,” DFA officials wrote. wrote. Historically, DFA would get 100 apSome private companies offer bonuses and some help new employ- plications when a job became availees pay their college tuition. The able. Now, the agency receives only letter specifically mentioned salary seven or eight applications for each increases announced by Walmart, job opening. Often, the agency offers people jobs Tyson, Chipotle, McDonald’s and and they accept. However, before their Amazon. The Personnel Subcommittee re- first day on the job they will call to say viewed the request for higher salaries that they have found a better paying for jobs at the bottom of the scale. job somewhere else. “DFA is simply not able to compete Not all state agencies have taken advantage and raised salaries, but some for qualified employees in the current environment,” agency officials said. major divisions have. The pandemic has worsened the For example, the state Board of Correction has approved changes to problem because many people are conits pay grid that will raise salaries for cerned about working with a steady more than 3,500 prison staff. flow of customers, such as a revenue According to the Office of Person- office where people renew licenses. nel Management letter, other agen-
6 Obituaries
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December 1, 2021
Jill Annette Cabello
grandchildren, nine nieces and nephews, and numerous other family and dear friends. A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 27, 2021, from Jill Annette 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Daisy Room Cabello, age (behind Janssen Florists) in Mena. 62, of Mena, Cremation arrangements entrusted A r k a n s a s , to Bowser Family Funeral Home in died Tuesday, Mena, Arkansas. November 23, 2021, at the Mena Jill had a personal goal to support Regional Health System. She was women and children escaping criborn on Saturday, June 20, 1959, to sis situations. Therefore, if anyone Stephen Douglas Barney and Carol would like to make a donation in Mae (LaBuy) Barney in Rockford, lieu of flowers, the family has choIllinois. sen the Fort Smith Crisis IntervenJill was a machinist in Rockford, tion Center. Donations can be comIL before retiring to Mena in 2010. pleted through their website at fscic. She was an unbelievably talented org/. crocheter who made many blankets for family, friends, and foster children. She adored her family, Neva her cats, and reading all genres of Nell books. She discovered a passion for travel within the last few years and Fairless took several cruises, visiting JamaiNeva Nell ca and Mexico. She loved adventure Fairless, age and a good story! 79, passed She is preceded in death by both away Monday, parents. November 29, Jill is survived by her husband of 2021, in Hatfield, Arkansas. She was 27 years, Juan A. Cabello of Mena; daughter Misti (Kevin) Clark of born November 24, 1942, in HatFrisco, TX; son Phillip (Mandy) field, Arkansas, to the late Henry Savage of Sallisaw, OK; son Chris- Lee and Tranna Ethel (Savage) Fairtopher Grimes of Salem, IL; broth- less. Ms. Fairless was a beautician and er Daniel (Jody) Barney of Meridcook by profession, and enjoyed ianville, AL; sister Sandra Ward of fishing, hunting for fossils, rock Lone Rock, WI; brother Stephen hounding with her sister, “run(Joy) Barney of Mena, AR; eight ning up and down the road,” crystal rocks, and cooking. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. Neva is preceded in death by her father, Henry Lee Fairless; mother, Tranna Ethel (Savage) Fairless; brothers, Carl Fairless, Connie “Bo” Fairless, and Marlon Fairless; sister, Frances Fairless Liles; and by her brother-in-law, Allen Gibson. She is survived by her sons, Kenneth Cline and wife Tammi, and
Roscoe Cline; daughter, Tranna Onstott and husband Larry; grandchildren, Almonzo Onstott, Cory Onstott, Welch Onstott, Vicki Cline, Roscina Cline, and Adam Cline; numerous great-grandchildren; brothers, Coy Fairless and wife Diane, Calvin Fairless, Charles Fairless and wife Angie, Everett Fairless and wife Melinda; sisters, Carolyn Hammonds and husband Louis, Oleta Fairless and Freda Gibson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and other family. Graveside services will be Friday, December 3, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield, Arkansas. With Brother Aaron Anglin officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Pallbearers are Eric Fairless, Jacob Mize, Josh Neer, Leroy Aurther, Gabriel Jasso, and Mike Johnson. Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com/.
Complete Up-to-Date Obituaries at
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By Richie Lawry
The three girls chattered happily as they ran from tree to tree on Papa Great’s property. He had suggested that they come to choose a real Christmas tree from his woods. Even though there were so many to choose from, it didn’t take long to find a tree they liked. But they kept looking to see if there was another tree that they liked better. After looking at dozens of trees, they decided to look again at the first tree that had caught their eye. After much discussion and taking a vote, they decided on the tree. Papa Great brought a small bow saw for the girls to use to cut down the tree. One girl worked for a few minutes, and then another girl, but the tree still stood. When the two girls decided to work together, one on each side of the bow saw, using it as a small crosscut saw, they finished the job in a minute. The girls had their live Christmas tree. They planned to put the tree on Grandma’s deck. While they were searching for the perfect tree, Grandma told them a story from when she was a girl. For as long as she could remember, there had been an aluminum Christmas tree in her house each Christmas. Artificial aluminum trees were shiny and felt very modern. The aluminum tree at her home was lit with different colors by a color wheel placed under the tree. The color wheel had four colored segments on a plastic wheel; when the wheel rotated, a light shone through the plastic, lighting the tree’s metallic branches with different colors. But this year, she and her sisters decided that they wanted to get a real Christmas tree. They planned to get a tree and have it put up before their parents got home from work. They pooled their money and walked the half-mile to the Arlan’s store where they knew there were Christmas trees for sale in the parking lot. There were so many to choose from, but the girls finally decided on a tree and paid for it. Suddenly they realized that there was part of the plan they hadn’t thought through. How were they going to get the
December 1, 2021
An Arkie’s Faith
The Real Christmas Tree
tree home? There was nothing that they could do but try to carry the tree home. I can imagine the looks the girls received from the passersby as they trudged along the busy city thoroughfare, struggling to hold onto and carry the sizeable Christmas tree. When they finally got home, they realized that they had another problem. They had chosen a tree that was much too tall to fit in their house. They looked through their Daddy’s tools and found a small hand saw. They began trying to cut off the bottom of the tree so it would fit in the house. As they were sawing on the tree, they heard Daddy’s truck drive into the driveway. They knew that their plan of having the tree put up in the living room before their parents got home wasn’t going to happen. Daddy was shocked to see his girls dauntlessly trying to cut off the bottom of an oversized Christmas tree. But with his help, the girls were able to put the tree up. This year they would have a real tree, not
an artificial one. The girls still remember this memorable Christmas even though it happened over fifty years ago. The story of that Christmas tree brings back special memories. After Grandma told the girls the story of the real Christmas tree, Papa Great told them a Christmas tree story from his childhood. He grew up in Kansas during the depression. No one ever bought a Christmas tree. He lived in a place with no evergreen trees, so they would cut a leafless tree and put it up for a Christmas tree. One Christmas, Papa Great’s older brother, decided that they should have a proper Christmas tree. So, the three siblings walked a mile to where they knew there was a large cedar tree. Papa Great’s brother climbed up into the tree and cut a few branches. They carried the branches home and tied them together to try and fashion them into a Christmas tree. That Christmas, they had a real evergreen tree in the house, even if it was just a few
Joke of the Week:
I am attempting to organize a hide and seek tournament but good players are hard to find.
Faith 7 branches tied together. The girls could see the happy memories in Papa Great’s eyes even though the event had happened almost eighty years ago. And hopefully, these girls will remember the Christmas that they went to Papa Great’s and cut down their own Christmas tree. Kathryn Butler writes, “Memory binds us to places that forget us, and to moments that no one else values.” But our memories are important. They shape who we are. Poet Wendell Berry has observed that when we are young, our lives are all time and very little memory. As we grow older, we discover that our lives are almost entirely memory and very little time. It is important to remember. Memory can be a tremendous blessing. It can bring smiles, laughs, or even tears of joy as we look at pictures, share stories, or think about the good times of bygone days. The character Kevin on the TV show “The Wonder Years” said, “Memory is the way of holding on to the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.” The crucial importance of memories recurs throughout the Bible. At the end of his life, Moses urges the people whom he’s shepherded for forty years to “…be careful and watch yourselves closely so that you don’t forget the things which you have seen with your own eyes. Don’t let them fade from your memory as long as you live. Teach them to your children and grandchildren.” Deuteronomy 4:9 (NOG) Gentle Reader, this Christmas, make new memories! Make lots of happy memories. Everyone has memories, both painful and joyful. But you can make plenty of positive memories to overshadow the difficult ones. And while you are making new memories, remember the blessings God has given you in the past. Pray the prayer of David found in Psalms 143:5-6 (ICB). “I remember what happened long ago. I recall everything you have done. I think about all you have made. I lift my hands to you in prayer. As a dry land needs rain, I thirst for you.” Merry Christmas and Happy Memories. Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years. Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938 Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
8 Community
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December 1, 2021
Breakfast with Santa
Hatfield First Baptist Church, Penuel Church and TJ’s Convenience Store will co-host a “Breakfast with Santa” event for families on Saturday, Dec. 4 at the Hatfield Auditorium. Children and parents can enjoy a hot breakfast, be reminded of the real season for Christmas, have the opportunity to create a Christmas craft together and also see Santa! There will be two breakfast times: 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. The event is free, but seating is limited, so tickets are required. The public can request tickets while they last at any of the hosts’ sites. We will be accepting donations to the local Toys for Tots drive. For more information, contact First Church of Hatfield, Penuel Church or TJ’s.
Around Town Polk County Sociable Seniors, Christmas Party, Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021 @ noon-2 p.m., Daisy Room, behind Janssen Avenue Florist, 707 7th Street. Potluck: Bring your favorite dish. Bring a gift for Casa Kids. Need socks, gloves, scarfs, pens and journals, but will accept anything you bring. If you would like to bring a dollar gift for a White elephant gift exchange that would be great. Looking forward to seeing you all at the party. Bring a friend. The more the better. The Mena Regional Auxiliary. The Auxiliary will host its annual Christmas Breakfast at the Mena Regional Hospital cafeteria, Thursday, Dec. 2, 7-10 a.m. The meals are available for dine-in or carry out; the cost is donation only. MRHS employees will be able to have their donation deducted from their payroll if they prefer. Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 am - Noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need. We kindly ask that non-vaccinated individuals wear masks. Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7pm Monday, at 7pm Thursday, at 7pm Friday, and at 6pm Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at 479-2167249.
Noon at 203 8th St. in Mena. Distribution will be at the church office. American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6pm, meeting follows. Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6pm, doors open at 4pm. Yard Sale, Christ Community Fellowship, 2837 Hwy. 88 East, Mena, Dec. 3-4 to raise money for inmates Christmas in Hodgen, Okl. The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 394-1565 or polkarhousing.com The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4pm - 6pm, located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call 479-437-4018. Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8pm Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call 479-243-0297. GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10am - noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.
Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3pm Sundays, at 5pm. Tuesdays and at 8pm Saturdays at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-2163786.
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.
Surviving the Holidays, a special GriefShare session, will be offered on Thursday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-noon, and Tuesday, Dec. 14, 6-8 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Mena. Open to anyone in the community who is grieving this holiday season. For more information call 479234-3419.
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!
St. Agnes Church will host a food distribution on Thursday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m.-
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December 1, 2021
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 November 22, 2021 Phillip Riley, 52 of Cove was arrested on a Misdemeanor Warrant for Theft of Property and two Misdemeanor Warrants for Failure to Appear. November 23, 2021 Deputies were dispatched to an address on Florence Street near Vandervoort in reference to a dog being shot. A traffic stop on Polk 45 near Mena led to the arrest of Jared White, 36 of Hot Springs Village on charges of DWI and Driving Left of Center. November 24, 2021 Shannon House, 54 of Hatfield was arrested on a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant. Deputies were dispatched to a domestic disturbance at a residence on Hidden Lane near Mena. Deputies responded to a walk-in complaint of a vehicle being stolen from Cardinal Lane near Acorn. Veronica Maddox, 24 of Kansas City, KS was arrested on a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to an address on Polk 32 near Cove in reference to a structure fire. November 27, 2021 A report of a domestic disturbance led to the arrest of Amanda Davis, 36 of Hatfield on a charge of Public Intoxication. While patrolling on Hwy 71 N near Acorn, deputies performed a welfare check leading to the arrest of Taylor Higgins, 26 of Mena on a charge of Public Intoxication. Deputies were dispatched to a property on Polk 59 near Board Camp in reference to theft of property. Deputies responded to a Criminal Mischief complaint at a residence on Polk 24 near Cove. Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 90 near Acorn in reference to Criminal Mischief. A patrol on Polk 41N near Mena led to the arrest of Zachary Bryan November 28, 2021 Deputies responded to a report of the dispatchers being harassed via phone. After an altercation on Polk 90 near Acorn, Justin Abbott, 39 of Mena was arrested on a charge of Third-Degree Battery.
Polk County Sheriff ’s Office November 25, 2021 worked 2 vehicle accidents this week. Deputies responded to a comPolk County Detention Center plaint of a vehicle being taken with- Jail Population: 19 Incarcerated Inout permission. mates, with 12 Inmates currently on November 26, 2021 the Waiting List for a State Facility.
MENA POLICE REPORTS November 21 A report of a dog bite was taken at a residence on South Cherry Street. A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart. A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant. November 22 A report of forgery was taken from Branding Iron. A report of sexual indecency with a child was taken from a walk-in complainant. A report of financial identity fraud was taken from a walk-in complainant. November 23 A report of harassment was taken from a person at Walmart. A report of theft was taken at a residence on 4th Street. Lesia Land, 62, was served with a warrant at the police department.
News 9 November 24 A report of violation of a protection order was taken at a residence on Dixon Road. A report of assault was taken at a residence on 10th Street. Cheryl Smith, 32, was served with two warrants at a residence on Dixon Road. A report of harassment was taken from a walk-in complainant. A report of theft was taken at a residence on West Boundary Road. November 25 Samuel Dawson, 29, was charged with Theft of Property after a complaint on Vivian Street. Rachel Turner, 44, was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest after a disturbance call to Mountain View Drive. November 26 A report of unlawful burning was taken at a residence on Locust Street. November 27 A report of criminal trespass was taken at Atwood’s. walk-in complainant.
10 News
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 1, 2021
Keeping Seniors Safe from Scams
More shoppers turn to onnet fraud at a time when all line retail to fulfill Christmas Americans were searching for wish lists and fill stockings. hope and security. In the early As we search for gifts to give months, seniors were more isoloved ones this holiday season lated and unguarded than ever it’s important to safeguard our and many dishonest scammers information so we can protect saw this as an opportunity to our personal data from cyfurther deceive and steal from ber criminals and teach those this vulnerable population. John Boozman who are most vulnerable how Con artists have developed to avoid becoming victims. a series of fake scenarios that Last year, nearly 800,000 individuals force seniors to make fast decisions and called the FBI’s Internet Crime Com- urge them to give up sensitive personal plaint Center. More than 25 percent of information. the victims were older than 60 and acOne of the most shameful schemes is counted for $1 billion in losses as a re- commonly referred to as the “romance sult of Internet scams. Nearly $100 mil- scam” which is blamed for $340 million lion was lost to COVID-related hoaxes. in losses just last year. In this ploy the It is vital that seniors know how to fraudster targets a widowed senior and protect themselves and their finances manipulates them into sending money from these schemes and can prevent or personal information. becoming a target in the future. In orOther scams place Medicare and Soder to save our loved ones from poten- cial Security benefits in the crosshairs, tial thieves, we must familiarize our- with impersonators portraying agency selves with common tactics and scams. officials, as well as thieves continuing to The pandemic exacerbated inter- promote unproven COVID-19 cures.
The issue is one officials at all levels of government are working to combat. Locally, Better Business Bureaus have flagged these warning signs and are educating consumers about what to look out for so we can stop this theft before it happens. In Arkansas, the Attorney General’s office is holding those who swindle our seniors accountable. At the federal level, the Federal Trade Commission has a division devoted to consumer information and increasing awareness about avoiding and reporting scams. My colleagues on the Senate Special Committee on Aging recently released a fraud book with instructions, tips and guidelines to avert and deal with such situations. I strongly encourage all Arkansans to consult this resource to learn more about scams aimed at older adults so we can protect those we care about. The committee has created a tollfree Fraud Hotline at 1-855-303-9470 where committee staff will provide callers with information to report incidences to the proper officials. If you or someone you know has suffered from one of these scams or feel you are cur-
rently being subjected to one, do not hesitate to call this hotline. This is one way we can fight back and take control from those who hide behind screens and shamelessly steal from their victims. This issue requires all Arkansans to be mindful of the risks and dangers of fraud on the Internet and work together to combat these scammers and especially protect our senior community. Criminals will continue to find new ways to be a scrooge during the holidays, but by educating ourselves we can stay one step ahead of their hoaxes.
GRIEF SHARE
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 1, 2021
Adopt a kid for Christmas program underway By Trey Youngdahl
Every year around Christmas, the Polk County Sheriff ’s Department runs their community outreach program where they sponsor children and families in need. The program, aptly titled “Adopt a Kid for Christmas,” works by having local school districts nominate underprivileged children and families. These adopted families will receive toys, clothes and food, depending on their needs. This program is wholly funded by donations made by Polk County citizens. All of the money is used directly for the aid of the elected families. Last year, the Department was able to sponsor 27 children, and received enough donations to spend around $300 per child. “We’ve done this for the last few years, and it’s gotten bigger every year,” Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said. “My goal this year is to have each school district nominate two families.
I think we’ll have enough donations to make that happen.” Sheriff Scott Sawyer took time to publicly share his appreciation and acknowledge the support from The Christian Motorcyclists Association, The Rich Mountain Train, The Bug Guys, Jason Barrett, Lisa Keeling, Chris Daniel, Dana Brown, Carole Martin, Sam Snead, Chip and Suzanne Bentley, Bobby and Kim Peek, Larry and Linda Dunaway, Aleshire Electric, United Country Properties Don and Kristina Davis, and Dallas Masonic Lodge #128. This growing list comprises all of the donors publicly acknowledged at press time. For updates, visit Sawyer’s Facebook page. If interested in making a donation, you can visit the Tax Office or the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office at 507 Church Ave. in Mena. You can also call the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office at 479394-2511, or contact Sawyer through his social media.
News 11
12 Sports
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 1, 2021
Tigers prepping to take Falcons down
By Ethan Nahté
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JAMES 479.234.6244 ERIC 479.243.5549 GENERAL CONTRACTORS RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
WWW.GLENNAIRECONSTRUCTION.COM
The Acorn Tigers and Lady Tigers wrestling teams will battle the Maumelle Charter High School Falcons Thursday, Dec. 2., 6 p.m. at Acorn High School. The meet will be a historic event for the Tigers’ new wrestling teams. Admission for adults is $5. Students get in free.
Mena hosts Union Bank Classic By Trey Youngdahl
FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION WE’LL BRING IT HOME!
The Mena Junior Ladycats and Junior Bearcats basketball teams will be hosting the Union Bank Classic on Thursday, Dec. 2, and on Saturday, Dec. 4. All games will be played at the Union Bank Center on the campus of Mena High School. The event will kick off on Thursday with The Cossatot River Eagles facing off against the DeQueen Leopards, starting with the girls teams at 4 p.m. and the boys at 5:15 p.m. The Dierks Outlaws will then play the Mena Jr. Ladycats, scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. The Jr. Bearcats will play Dierks beginning at 7:45 p.m. Saturday, the Dierks Outlaws will play against the DeQueen Leopards, the girls’ team starting at 1 p.m. and the boys at 2:15 p.m. Following that, the Mena Jr. Ladycats will play the Cossatot River Eagles at 3:30 p.m. and the Jr. Bearcats start play at 4:45 p.m. Simultaneously, the Mena Sr. Ladycats and Bearcats will compete in the Hot Springs Invitational, beginning Thursday, Dec. 2. The Sr. Ladycats first game will see them take on the Russellville Cyclones. The Sr. Bearcats will begin competition against the Hot Springs Trojans.
More SPORTS continued on page 17
Mena High School Basketball Dec. 2: Hot Springs Invitational Dec. 7: Lakeside @ Mena Cossatot River High School Basketball Dec. 3: Cossatot @ Mansfield Dec. 6-11: Nashville Bankers Classic Acorn High School Basketball Dec. 3: Acorn @ Caddo Hills Wrestling Dec. 2: Maumelle @ Acorn
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 1, 2021
Winter Awareness Week:
Knowing Watches, Warnings and Advisories SUBMITTED It’s Winter Weather Awareness Week in Arkansas, a time to highlight and review the long-range winter forecast, offer helpful safety tips, and provide a comprehensive look at the hazards of winter. Given the foot of snow and subfreezing temperatures we saw in our part of Arkansas back in February, residents in the listening area are not strangers to the harsh weather winter can bring.
alerts the public to the possibility of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter storm watches are usually issued 24 to 48 hours before the beginning of a winter storm. These events may occur separately or in combination. Since watches are issued well in advance of the storm, there will be times when the storm does not materialize, so they may be canceled. On the other hand, a warning is issued when hazardous winter weather is imminent or has already begun. It is issued for conditions which pose a threat to life and property.
• Other winter weather warnings include an ice storm warning, which is issued when significant ice is expected to accumulate on trees, powerlines and roads. An ice storm is a very dangerA dump rake covered in snow during one of the coldest ous storm, disrupting traffic, and knocking Arkansas winters on record, Feb. 2021. (Photo by Ethan Nahté) down powerlines. As those who lived in the area during the 20002001 winter storm know well, To help Arkansans get ready for winprolonged power outages can octer’s wrath, we plan to highlight a specur leaving people without powcial week and review the long-range er for up to a week or more. forecast, offer helpful safety tips, and • A wind chill warning is issued provide a comprehensive look at the when wind chill temperatures hazards of winter. Today we’ll take a are expected to be hazardous to brief look at the terms the national life within several minutes of exweather service uses to describe winposure, usually at temperatures ter weather as well as the definitions below minus 25 degrees Fahrenof watches, warnings and advisories isheit. sued for winter weather events. A hazardous weather outlook is isIn contrast to warnings and watchsued prior to a winter storm watch. The outlook is issued when forecast- es, advisories are issued for less serious ers believe winter storm conditions are weather conditions. Specific advisories possible. Outlooks are usually issued 3 will alert you to weather that would to 5 days in advance of a winter storm. have a significant effect on motorists, In general, a winter storm watch outdoor activities, or public events.
News 13
14 Classifieds
December 1, 2021
LEGAL
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
This instrument prepared by: Chad Cumming Gill Ragon Owen, P.A.’ 425 West Capitol Ave., Suite 3800 Little Rock, AR 72201 NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE WHEREAS, on September 30, 2010, that certain FIXED RATE HOME EQUITY CONVERSION DEED OF TRUST was executed by MARY E. HARP (the “Mortgagor”), as mortgagor, delivered to Ann Orsi-Smith as trustee for One Reverse Mortgage, LLC as beneficiary, and recorded on October 19, 2010, in Book 2010, Page 11627 in the Office of the Circuit Clerk and Ex Officio Recorder, Polk County, Arkansas; and WHEREAS, the First Mortgage was insured by the Secretary (the “Secretary’) of the United State Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the First Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to that ASSIGNMENT OF DEED OF TRUST dated January 28, 2016, and recorded on March 21, 2016, in Book 2016, Page 2155 in the Office of the Circuit Clerk and Ex Officio Recorder, Polk County, Arkansas; and WHEREAS, on September 30, 2010, that certain FIXED RATE SECOND HOME EQUITY CONVERSION SECOND DEED OF TRUST (collectively, with the First Mortgage, the “Mortgages”) was executed by Mortgagor as mortgagor and delivered to the Senior Official with responsibility for Single Family Mortgage Insurance programs in the Department of Housing and Urban Development Field Office with jurisdiction over the property described below, or a designee of that Official as trustee for the Secretary as mortgagee, and was recorded on October 19, 2010, in Book 2010, Page 11638 in the Office of the Circuit Clerk and Ex Officio Recorder, Polk County, Arkansas; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgages the property secured by the Mortgages (the “Property’) has ceased to be the principal residence of at least one surviving Mortgagor; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of October 7, 2021, 2021 is $175,669.04; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgages to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B. and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on October 25, 2021 with the Circuit Clerk and Ex Officio Recorder of Polk County, Arkansas as File No. 2021R-3912, notice is hereby given that on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the premises property described as follows (the “Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: Lot Twenty-five (25) of Hidden Valley Estates, a subdivision in part of the West 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 21, Township 2 South, Range 30 West, Polk County, Arkansas, as recorded in plat Cabinet 3 slide188.( Correct is Slide 18B) Subject to Restrictions as set out in Warranty Deed recorded in Deed Book 261 pages 721-723, 09/25/1995 and as set out in Misc. Book M-222, pages 527-529, recorded 01/15/1991, Subject to any public utility and roadway easements and city zoning ordinances as may now exist. Commonly known as 1700 Valley View Drive, Mena AR, 71953 The sale will be held at the Polk County Courthouse, 507 Church Ave, Mena, AR 71953. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $183,191.98. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling $18,319.20 (10% of the Secretary’s bid] in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the “Secretary of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development”. The check should also reference FHA Case # 031-4103428. A deposit need not accompany each oral bid. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $18,319.20 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for 15-day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the. HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be cancelled or adjourned if it is established, by documented written application of the mortgagor to the Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days before the date of sale, or otherwise, that the default or defaults upon which the foreclosure is based did not exist at the time of service of this notice of default and foreclosure sale, or all amounts due under the mortgage agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed. The amount that must be paid if the mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is $175,669.04 as of October 7, 2021, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. Tender of payment by certified or cashier’s check or application for cancellation of the foreclosure sale shall be submitted to the address of the Foreclosure Commissioner provided below.
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
Classifieds 15 Dallas Masonic Lodge No.128 offers respite from cold
December 1, 2021
CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -
By Trey Youngdahl
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. T1222 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T1222 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T1208 Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call Wendell’s Tree Service (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328. T1208
MENA REAL ESTATE
- FOR SALE -
GIFTS! Handmade by local artisans. An entire store full! Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (479) 394-3880 T1222
www.MenaRealEstate.com
With Mena’s annual Christmas Parade of Lights coming up on Friday, Dec. 3, citizens are already making plans for where they will be able to watch the fireworks display. Lana Gail & Gail Force hit the stage for a musical performance in Janssen Park at 7 p.m. Following the live music, the fireworks will start at 7:30 p.m. For the third year now, the Freemasons of the Dallas Masonic Lodge No. 128 in Mena are offering their lodge for folks to observe the fireworks from the perfect view of their porch and sidewalk. Afterwards, they’re welcome to come into the lodge to escape the cold December air and warm up over a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, and have a good conversation with the members of the brotherhood. This tradition was started in 2018 by Randy Webster, who was master of the lodge at the time. Seeing that the fireworks were so easily seen from the porch and sidewalk, he wanted an open invite for anybody to take advantage of the view. The lodge also
has spacious parking, and plenty of room for people to come inside to warm themselves and share refreshments. “We started having a Christmas open house during the parade and lighting of the park because we wanted to be better neighbors for the community,” Webster said. “In 2017, our front porch and sidewalk were packed with people watching the fireworks. We started talking the very next day about opening the doors and it just evolved from there.” The lodge is located at the corner of Port Arthur Street and 7th Street, across from Janssen Park. The lodge will be brightly lit up, as it was decorated in preparation for the Christmas parade by masons Randy Webster, Terry Fuquay and Michael Campbell.
479-394-7301
1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
16 Puzzles
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
December 1, 2021
12.01.21
ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 11.24.21
Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK
Hello! My name is Beth. I am 4 years old and weigh in at about 45 pounds. I am a beauty too! I am tricolor with a mostly black coat mixed with cream and white. I am such a sweet loving girl. I am leash trained and really enjoy going on walks. I love to run and would really do well with a nice large area to play. I am good with other dogs. I need to be kept on a monthly heartworm preventative to ensure my best health. I would need to be pre-adopted and HSO staff can walk through the easy pre-adoption process with you. Come by HSO and meet me today! All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS TUES. THROUGH SAT. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR 479 3945682 WWW.HSOMENA.ORG
THE POLK COUNTY
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December 1, 2021 SPORTS continued from page 12
Sports/Humor 17
Ho g s p o r e Ne w s : Annual Bird Call Competition Coming Saturday By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson
Mena Bearcats All-State Football Honorable Mentions
All State Honorable Mention Caleb Peters (1st Team All Conference) 1st Team All Conference Austin Rose Jake Brotherton Logan Yang
Jordan Roberts Jett Baber Bobby Wallis Jayden Felix 2nd Team All Conference Blake Brown Colby Davis Jarrett Burger Trey Day
We’re all back to walking at regular speed after Thursday. Even the mayor’s stopped waddling from the Thanksgiving dinners and pumpkin pie abuse. Momma come to share the hollerday and partake of a goodly amount of everything on the dinner table. Our family ain’t bashful around food. Momma stayed overnight. It’s never the plan, but she always falls asleep in the recliner after the fourth slab of pie. In the morning, she gets the hint that we’re ready to drive her home, cause I walk out of the kitchen with a box of leftovers, another pumpkin pie, and the truck keys jangling in my hand. The annual Bird Call Competition starts at 6 pm on Saturday, December 4th, in the high school auditorium. This year’s sponsor is Hogspore’s Sundries and Notions. Remember their catchy slogan that they wrote themselves, “If you’ve got a notion for some sundries, drop by and buy something.” The only call not allowed at the contest is a turkey, out of respect for
those plump fellers who gave the ultimate sacrifice for us last week … like they really had a choice. The gobbler that the mayor pardoned is hiding in a remote location, suffering from PTSD, Post Thanksgiving Stuffing Dodging. Mumford Pickens has some trivia about Thanksgiving, “I start off the feast by saying grace and giving a toast to the pilgrims like Miles Standish and the Native Americans with maize that had a fishy taste. The pilgrims starting calling it corn on the cod. They also made a thin pancake with corn and fish called Crepe Cod. The journal of William Bradford, the governor of the Plymouth colony, told of the change in the spring from a communal socialist society to one of individual ownership that kept them from starving the following Thanksgiving. God-fearing, gun-loving capitalists saved the day.” These are Mumford Pickens’ thoughts and do not reflect the opinions of folks that don’t agree. Bless their hearts. Contact at Bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com. You know you wanna.
18 News
December 1, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL Time in the field
By Steven E Stillwell
When I was 10 years old, one of my uncles taught me an old saying that’s stuck with me my entire life. This is a direct quote borrowed from the online Encyclopedia, WIKIPEDIA: THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD; is a metonymic adage, created by the English author Edward Bulwer Lytton in 1839, indicating that the written word is more effective than violence as a tool for communicating a point. In some interpretations, written words can refer to administrative powers or independent news media organizations. LET’S DELVE DEEPER. A metonymic adage is defined as a word, phrase, or figure of speech that stands for something. A prime example would be, CROWN, signifies a king, and the WHITEHOUSE represents the United States presidential administration. So, the question remains; WHAT DOES ALL OF THIS HAVE TO DO WITH SURVIVAL? Don’t believe everything you see or hear on ABC, CBS, CNN or FOX news, because false narratives can influence the way you think, and this might compel you to act detrimentally. Certain intellectuals refer to this technique as PROGRAMMING. In his book “Mein Kampf,” Adolph Hitler accused the Jews of disseminating lies, and his minister of propaganda, Joseph Goebbels allegedly took this ideology a step further and said, “IF YOU TELL A
LIE ENOUGH TIMES, PEOPLE WILL BELIEVE IT.” Whether he said this or not is questionable, but that’s the ongoing rumor. Either way, deception is a powerful tool, and in most instances, it causes people to ignore their GOD given intuitions and common sense. I’ve seen folks make some foolish, pathetic decisions, because an enchanted news commentator filled their head full of counterproductive garbage. Could disinformation cost you your life; step into this boxcar, travel to our luxurious relocation camp, and you’ll find out? THIS IS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF FINANCIAL TYRANNY: The year was 1933 and millions of unsuspecting, naive, hardworking American citizens were tricked into surrendering their gold because of a presidential mandate. Executive Order 6102 forced the populace to trade a valuable, tangible asset, for pieces of worthless paper commonly known as, FEDERAL RESERVE NOTES. Today, our monetary system is backed by nothing, except for hopes, dreams, and promises. The pen is mightier than the sword, or should I say; THE PRINTING PRESS IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD? Like Federal Express, The Federal Reserve isn’t owned by the United States government. This autonomous entity, or should I say corporation, is controlled by a secretive group of international bankers? One of their objec-
479.394.4248
104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344
Steve Stillwell recording his weekly podcast. (Photo by Trey Youngdahl) tives is to make money, and they create it out of thin air. Few understand the concept, but the FEDERAL DEFICIT is a direct result of them loaning us digital money that we can never pay back. The best advice I can give an aspiring survivalist is to learn how to think outside of the proverbial “BOX.” Wisdom is the greatest survival tool known to mankind, and it doesn’t come easily or manifest itself overnight. Our world is a hostile place, and we’ve all heard the old saying, ONLY THE STRONG SURVIVE, but this is a misnomer—ONLY THE WISE SURVIVE. Today, right now, is the time to formulate a prudent survival plan for yourself and family, because hard times are on the horizon. According to the experts, the great depression will look like a picnic compared to what’s coming. Last century, the government seized our grandparents’ gold, but how long could we survive if they confiscated our bank accounts, food supplies, and weapons? Anything is possible. Imagine being stripped of your constitutional rights and being forced to live under martial law, because of political upheaval, nat-
ural disasters, nuclear war, or pandemics? Being banned from the grocery store, sporting events and restaurants doesn’t sound so far-fetched, because these things are happening in various places throughout the world. If you don’t have a bug-out bag, now is the time to start assembling one. The basic foundation is shelter, fire and water, so start from there. For those who decide to bug-in, cover as many bases as possible including nonperishable dehydrated foods, plenty of water, flashlights, candles, lanterns, solar powered items, a Coleman or woodstove, and some reliable, self-defense hardware. Always have an alternative backup plan, and avoid being predictable, because looters, marauders, criminals, and other hostile elements will do their best to steal what you’ve accumulated. We invite you to listen to our podcast show, and to join our Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome. All of the views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. The Pulse Multi-Media group isn’t responsible for the content.
History 19 A life taken: Willard Rufus Ayers Cossatot River High Music Department the door wearing only his underwear. By Ray Shelley to present Christmas concert Ayers identified himself as a deputy THE POLK COUNTY
Pulse
A native of Smith, Arkansas, Willard Rufus Ayers was born in 1847. His father was a stonemason that moved to Arkansas from Vermont during the construction of the Fort. In 1870, at 23 years old, Willard and his older brother Christopher Columbus Ayers took the oath of office to become United States Deputy Marshals, five years before Isaac C. Parker’s appointment by President Grant as the Western District Federal Judge. In 1873, Willard Ayers, deputy marshal Paul DuVal, and deputy James Wilkerson were escorting a prisoner from Indian Territory to Fort Smith. Ayers was wounded, and Deputy Wilkerson was killed. Ayers recovered from his wounds and returned to work. Willard Ayers had been a deputy marshal for 10 years when, on August 11, 1880, he was killed in the line of duty. Ayers was serving a minor felony warrant on Emanual Patterson, a freed black man who lived at Cherokee Town, Indian Territory. Deputies Ayers, William Moody, Ben Ayers (Willard’s Brother), and C. Spencer were in Chickasaw Nation serving a civil summons. Before returning to Fort Smith, Ayers wanted to serve some warrants in Cherokee Town. After making three arrests, Ben and Spencer were left to guard the prisoners while Moody and Willard went to the home of Emanuel Patterson. Patterson’s warrant charged him with stealing an abundance of corn from his neighbor. Patterson opened
December 1, 2021
then told Patterson he had a warrant for his arrest. Patterson asked if he could get dressed. Being a minor felony warrant, Ayers was not too concerned about him fleeing. Moody stayed by the front door as Ayers followed Emanuel into the bedroom. As soon as Patterson entered the bedroom, he grabbed a pistol from the top of the nightstand, turned and fired, hitting Ayers in the forehead. Patterson ran out the back. Moody ran to the bedroom, finding Ayers wounded severely. Moody made a hasty retreat, located the posse, and told Ben what happened. Together they secured a wagon and returned to the Patterson house. They were too late; Willard was dead. They loaded Willard into the wagon and secured the three prisoners for the return trip to Fort Smith. A murder warrant was issued for Patterson, who avoided capture for six years. In January 1887, deputy marshal Heck Thomas brought 12 prisoners into Fort Smith after a 52-two-day stretch in Indian Territory. He had several murderers in the group, one being Emanuel Patterson, the murderer of deputy Willard Ayers. Patterson was tried in Judge Parker’s courtroom, found guilty of murder, and sentenced to hang. His sentence was later reduced to life in prison, where he died. U.S. Deputy Marshal Willard Ayers was 33 years old when killed. He left behind a pregnant wife expecting their first child.
cert will follow at 7 p.m. featuring the combined Jr. high choirs performing The Cossatot River High School first. Next will be the Sr. high girls choir, Music Dept will present their Christmas concert, Tuesday, Dec. 7, in the Cantabile, and ending the evening Holbert Auditorium in Wickes. The will be the Sr. high mixed choir, Noteband and choirs are under the direc- worthy. Come out and enjoy a night of tion of Susan Brewer. The band concert will begin at 6 festive holiday music performed by p.m. The Jr. and Sr. high choir con- many talented CRHS musicians. Submitted by Susan Brewer
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December 1, 2021
THE POLK COUNTY
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