Polk County Pulse February 15, 2023

Morgan Freeman at Rose Aircraft

President’s Day

Morgan Freeman sets Mena abuzz

By Ethan Nahté

News spread quickly throughout Mena on Feb. 9 about Morgan Freeman being in town. Some doubted texts and social media posts at first, questioning their sources. Was someone pulling their leg? Did they really mean the versatile, award-winning actor?

Yes, they did.

Granted, many entertainers are downto-earth and humble people who enjoy their privacy when they aren’t in the limelight at a red-carpet event. Residents in an area such as Mena or the Ouachita Mountains rarely have the opportunity to get a glimpse of someone of Freeman’s prominence. It set Mena abuzz, despite Freeman attempting to remain inconspicuous, casually dressed in blue jeans and a baseball-style cap as he ate at American Artisans.

Freeman is also a producer and director who has appeared in approximately 150 films and TV shows, such as the children’s program “The Electric Company,” and films “Driving Miss Daisy,” “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” and the Christopher Nolan trilogy of Batman films?

He has also appeared on Broadway, debuting with “Hello, Dolly!” alongside Pearl Bailey and Cab Calloway.

Odds are, even in the unlikely chance you haven’t seen a film Freeman has appeared in, you have probably heard his distinctive voice narrating documentaries. The man stays busy. He even has

Daniel and Jennifer Brewer of Rose Aircraft pose with actor/producer/director and airplane pilot Morgan Freeman when he made a stop in Mena on Thursday.

2023 Arkansas Century Farm Applications due May 31

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the 2023 Arkansas Century Farm Program. This program recognizes Arkansas families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years.

Online and printable applications are available at  agriculture. arkansas.gov/arkansas-department-of-agriculture-services/arkansas-century-farm-program/ There is no cost to apply.

“Arkansas Century Farm families have persevered challenges for at least ten decades and have contributed greatly in making Arkansas agriculture the success story that it is today,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture

Wes Ward. “As our state’s largest industry, agriculture has an economic impact of over $19 billion annually and provides one in seven jobs in the state.”

To qualify, Arkansas farms must meet the following criteria:

• The same family must have owned the farm for 100 years by Dec. 31, 2023. The line of ownership from the original settler or buyer may be through children, grandchildren, siblings, and nephews or nieces, including through marriage and adoption.

• The farm must be at least ten acres of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income.

Qualifying Arkansas farms will receive a personalized Arkansas Century Farm certificate and metal sign listing the farm name and year established.

Arkansas is home to more than 42,000 farms, of which 96% are family owned and operated. Since the program began in 2012, 568 farms have been certified.

Find lists of previously inducted Arkansas Century Farm families at  agriculture.arkansas.gov/ arkansas-department-of-agriculture-services/arkansas-century-farm-program/.

Contact Beth Moore at 501-5394027 or  beth.moore@agriculture. arkansas.gov with questions.

Applications must be received via email or postmarked on or before May 31, 2023, to be eligible for designation as a 2023 inductee.

Master Gardener Patricia Roberts (left) received her 10 year Master Garden pin on Feb. 9 during the monthly Master Gardener meeting. Polk County Master Gardener President Judy Petty presented the pin to Roberts.

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To the Editor:

In my inbox today (0121-2023) was an email from Representative Bruce Westerman. The main topic was our debt ceiling. We have reached our debt limit and there is frantic activity to move money around to pay our bills to keep us from default on our loans, something that would be devastating globally in the financial markets, and would affect our credit rating, ability to borrow money, and interest we pay on our loans.

This is not new but rather the result of wild and reckless spending for a long time by both parties. Failure to have a budget and stick to it has only worsened the problem. I have heard the innocent sounding phrase of “ kick the can down the road” many times. Not funny and somewhere we need to start living within our means. If you did not know, the national debt is in excess of $31.42 TRILLION as of December of 2022.

We cannot print money to get out of this hole. That only makes things worse and lessens the value of money in circulation now. To put things in perspective every citizen of the US has a share of this debt to the tune of $ 93,870. To cover our share of the debt would require our household to sell our home and withdraw our retirement savings and still be short. Sooner or later, you will tire of my reference to illegal immigrants and the toll they take on us, but it is real and cannot be ignored, and makes a bad situation worse for them and us.

I thought that China held the biggest chunk of our debt, but my

Want to share your opinion?

research showed that Japan holds $1.3 Trillion as opposed to China at $972 Billion. I am not trying to demonize either country for our debt. We asked and they provided. We are at fault here and need to come to terms with where we are, how we got here, and what we need to do to turn around the catastrophe that looms on the horizon.

Think about what you buy and where is comes from. Again, I am not trying to make the Japanese or Chinese the bad guys here. I blame, for a large part, American companies that moved factories overseas for cheap labor, and we the consumers, for buying what they make and ship back.

Our government is not without blame and could have stopped this greed but did not. If we stop our spending on foreign goods, it cannot help but reverse our trade deficit with these countries and force our greedy corporations to bring jobs and manufacturing facilities back home. You are either part of the problem or part of the solution. Read labels, not just nutritional values and calories, but where things come from.

As always, I thank you for a forum to express my thoughts, though we may peacefully disagree.

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

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On the 5th week of the Regular Session, the House passed legislation addressing substance abuse, teen pregnancy, public assistance, and transportation.

The House passed HB1144. This bill creates the Arkansas Family Treatment Specialty Court Act.

The bill states that there is a critical need for judicial intervention and support for effective treatment programs to reduce the number of family separations due to substance use disorders and mental health disorders.

HB1144 address that by creating a specialized court within the court system, similar to our current drug courts.

The House also passed the Support for Pregnant and Parenting Students Act.

HB1161 allows pregnant and parenting students to have an additional 10 days of excused absence after the birth of their child. This bill also ensures adequate nursing facilities are provided by schools to parenting students.

The House passed two bills this week regarding qualifications for public assistance.

HB1197 would disqualify a person from collecting unemployment compensation for any week he or she fails to respond to a job offer or fails to appear for a job interview.

HB1196 would require an able-bodied person to work, train, or volunteer in order to qualify for and receive public housing. Several exceptions are outlined in the bill.

In addition, the House passed HB1182. This bill aims to address the state’s shortage of large animal veterinarians by providing clarity regarding the certification of a veterinary technician specialist and defines a collaborative agreement between a veterinarian and a specialist.

The House passed SB43 which defines an adult-oriented performance and adds certain restrictions.

And the House passed a couple of transportation bills.

HB1324 would allow law enforcement officers to pull over a driver who does not have their headlights on when it is raining, snowing, or any time the windshield wipers are being used.

SB47 repeals a law that prohibits leaving a running vehicle unattended.

The deadline to file proposed constitutional amendments was Wednesday of this week.

In all, 33 proposals were filed. Constitutional amendments are typically one of the last items to be addressed in the session. You can review the proposals at arkansashouse.org.

LITTLE ROCK –Backed by a host of legislators, the governor revealed details of her education package. The proposed changes in public school funding would be numerous and far reaching.

They include large increases in teacher pay and the expansion of literacy programs for young children.

A point of focus is the governor’s proposal to greatly expand school choice. Parents would be more able to afford private or parochial schools for their children, with subsidies from the state to help pay for tuition.

The governor’s proposal would allow parents to create Education Freedom Accounts, which they could use to pay for tuition at private or parochial schools. The accounts would receive an amount equal to 90 percent of state per pupil expenditures. This year, foundation funding is $7,413 per pupil.

The state Education Secretary said that details are being finalized, but key legislators said that the accounts would be phased in over three years.

In the first year, families would be eligible if their children attended schools rated “F” in school report cards. Also eligible the first year would be children of active duty military parents, children in foster care, children with special needs and children in low-income families would be eligible.

In the second year, children would become eligible if they attended a “D” rated school. In the third year, all children would be eligible.

The education package includes a repeal of the cap on the number of open enrollment charter schools allowed in Arkansas. The cap is now at 34 charters. There are 22 open enroll-

ment charters, although several of those operate multiple campuses. Under current law, when the number of charters increases to within two of the cap, the cap automatically increases by five.

The governor’s plan would repeal limits on transfers.

High schools would offer career education for students who want to enter the work force after graduation, rather than going to college.

Teacher salaries in Arkansas would jump from 48th to fourth in the country, under the governor’s plan. Now, the minimum teacher salary is $36,000 a year and it would go to $50,000. There are more than 15,000 teachers who now earn more than $36,000 but less than $50,000, and they would get raises to bring them up to the minimum.

The proposals include hiring 120 literacy coaches to work throughout the state. Students in kindergarten through the third grade who struggle with learning to read would qualify for a $500 stipend to pay for a tutor.

Students would have to read at a third grade level before advancing to the fourth grade, under the governor’s plan. According to standardized assessments, only 35 percent of third graders in Arkansas can read at grade level.

Good teachers could get a bonus of $10,000 under the governor’s plan, and they could get 12 weeks of maternity leave. The plan would repeal the Teacher Fair Dismissal Act.

The package includes school safety measures. The governor mentioned crisis response training and mental health awareness training.

Under the governor’s plan, students would have to complete 75 hours of community service in order to graduate.

John Maddox Terry Rice

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service accepting 2023 EQIP-High Tunnel applications

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Feb. 6, 2023

–The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Arkansas will provide at least $1 million in fiscal year 2023 for the utilization and implementation of high tunnels on agricultural land through the Environment Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

High Tunnels are designed to help producers extend the growing season, increase productivity, keep plants at a steady temperature, and conserve water and energy. The EQIP high tunnel sign-up will be administered through the ACT NOW approach, which is a targeted, rapid, and streamlined application and contract approval process.

The EQIP-High Tunnel application deadline is March 13, 2023, however through the streamlined

application and contract approval approach, applications will be assessed and ranked as they are submitted to the  USDA Field Service Center. Based on funds availability, application assessments with a ranking score of 100 points or greater will be pre-approved immediately for the first batch of funding. Producers are encouraged to apply for the High Tunnel funds at their earliest convenience. Additional sign-up batches may be announced at a later date, subject to the availability of funding.

All USDA Service Centers are open for business. Visitors wishing to conduct business with NRCS should call ahead and schedule an appointment. To locate a local field office, visit  https://offices.sc.egov. usda.gov/locator/app.

Beef production meetings

The U of A Division of Agriculture Research and Extension office will hold a beef production meeting at 6 p.m. on Feb. 23 at the Extension Education Building, 211 Dequeen St., Mena. A meal will be provided, so please call 479-394-6018 to register. Topics will include herd health, parasite control, understanding cattle markets and what controls them, and farm management apps.

More beef

A separate organization, the

Over 400 attend first Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Grown program, administered through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department), partnered with several Arkansas agricultural associations and organizations to host the first Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo in Little Rock.

Conference and Expo,” said Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “This event served as an excellent opportunity for our farmers to connect with each other and with organizations that provide resources and opportunities that support our state’s largest industry.”

Arkansas Beef Council Board of Directors will also be meeting on Feb. 23 at the Don Tyson Center for Agricultural Sciences in Waldrip Hall, 1371 W. Altheimer Dr., Fayetteville. For those unfamiliar, the facility is near the Pauline Whitaker Equine Area.

The meeting begins at 9 a.m. with Beef Council business, research, and contractor updates. There will be a tour of beef checkoff-funded projects at the University of Arkansas Meat Science Department and the Animal Science Abattoir.

The conference was open to all parties interested in Arkansas’s agriculture industry and focused on farmers and producers who grow for the local food system. The four-day event consisted of general sessions with keynote speakers, workshops, off-site farm tours, networking opportunities, and a vendor trade show with representatives from over 70 businesses and organizations. Evening events at the Sunset Lodge at Rusty Tractor Vineyard and the University of Arkansas Pulaski Tech Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute showcased Arkansas Grown food, wine, and beer. Over 400 individuals attended the conference. Photos from the event are available at  flic.kr/s/aHBqjAqf9R.

“The Arkansas Department of Agriculture was fortunate to partner with Arkansas organizations and associations to host the first Arkansas Grown

Partner organizations included the Arkansas State Horticulture Society, Arkansas Association of Grape Growers, Arkansas Farmers Market Association/Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention, Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association, and Arkansas Agritourism Association.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the 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.

Obituaries

Bettye Jane Curtis

Bettye Jane Curtis, age 86, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at the Homewood Cottages in Mena. She was born on Sunday, May 3, 1936, to Sam and Eunice Putman Kirkland in Mena, Arkansas.

Bettye loved the Lord and was a member of the Dallas Avenue Baptist Church and taught Sunday School for years. She was always direct and to the point and her honesty was admired by her family and friends. Bettye enjoyed reading, gardening, crocheting, and sewing. She was an extremely gifted cook. Everyone in the family loved her Fried Chicken especially. Bettye usually listened to Gospel music but also liked to hear live music with her family. She was head cook over the Acorn schools after she retired and was really proud of the work she did. Bettye loved her family very much and cherished every moment she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She passed away while listening to her loving children talk and laugh. Bettye was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Weldon Thomas Curtis.

Bettye is survived by two sons, and daughters-in-law, Tom and Mary Curtis of Mena, Lonnie and Sheila Curtis of LaBelle, Florida; two daughters and sons-in-law, Peggy and Leonard Russell of Waldron, and Barbara and Billy Don Williams of Mansfield; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Francis and Butch Hennings of Mena, Dovie and Joe Norcross of Little Rock, JoAnn Griffin of Mena; four grandchildren, Frank and Sarah Gibson of Mena, Rebekah Fox of Virginia, Rachel Curtis of Virginia, Elisabeth and Omri Alva of Virginia; four great-grandchildren, Joshua Gibson, Jarrett Gibson, Bea Alva, Vivi Alva; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Concord Cemetery in Ink, Arkansas, with Brother Frank Gibson officiat-

ing under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. No visitation is planned.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Vicki Bosch

Vicki Bosch, age 65, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away

Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at UAMS in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born on Thursday, October 31, 1957, to Don Gillam and Geneva (Robinson) Gillam in Benton, Arkansas.

Vicki loved the Lord and attended Concord Baptist Church. She was married to her loving husband Al for 45 years. Vicki loved to travel with her family. Branson, Missouri, was among her favorite places to visit. She enjoyed going antiquing with Al and looking for good deals to take home with her. Vicki loved her children and grandchildren with all her heart. She attended every sports game or program that her grandchildren were a part of. They could always count on her smiling face to be in the crowd cheering them on. Vicki especially loved her little rat terrier Rascal and her grand dogs. They brought her so much joy. Vicki loved to sing and play the piano as well as feed her little bird visitors. She worked for over 40 years as a paralegal at Maddox & Maddox law office where she was considered to be a jack of all trades. Vicki was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Don and Geneva Gillam; two brothers, Leon Gillam and Tommy Gillam; and one sister and brother-in-law, Doris Dobbs and JD Dobbs.

Vicki is survived by her loving husband, Al Bosch of Mena; two sons and daughter-in-laws, Chris Bosch and wife Melonie of Springdale, Arkansas and Justin Bosch and wife Andy of Mena, Arkansas; one daughter and son-in-law, Traci Hostetler and husband Seth of Mena, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Jakob Hostetler, Camden Hostetler, Victoria Bosch and JD Bosch all of Mena, Arkansas; one sister and brother-in-law, Donna Staggs and husband Jerry of Benton, Arkansas; a special cousin, Barbara Thompson and

husband Larry of Mena, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Concord Baptist Church in Ink, Arkansas, with Brother Wade Mayberry officiating. Interment will follow in the Concord Cemetery under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena. A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 12, 2023, from 2-4 P.M. in the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel.

Pallbearers are John Maddox, David Maddox, Bruce Busch, James Hale, Larry Thompson and Frank Gibson.

Honorary Pallbearers are Joey Fryar, Ray Cmunt and Eric Hostetler.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to the Polk County Public Library-Children’s Library, or the Ink RVFD (P.O. Box 84, Mena, AR 71953)

Billy Gene Waddell

Mr. Billy Gene Waddell, age 94, passed away Friday, February 10, 2023, in Mena, Arkansas. He was born December 7, 1928, in Oak Hill Community (Board Camp), Arkansas, to the late Charles E. Waddell and Cleo Helen Parker Waddell.

Mr. Waddell was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving more than 22 years, with 11 of those years at sea. He retired in 1971, after serving on 12 different aircraft carriers. He had combat tours in both Korea and Vietnam. As a member of an air crew, he had 226 combat missions over Korea, but spent most of his time serving in air squadrons loading ordnance. He was a Senior Chief Petty Officer at retirement. He had sailed around both the Horn of South America and the Horn of Africa in 1957 and 1965. Billy was known as an outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and was always bird watching.

Mr. Waddell is preceded in death by his parents, Charles E. Waddell and Cleo Helen Waddell; loving wife, Armel Bryan Waddell; sisters, Lucille Waddell Hallman, Anna Lee Waddell Riggs; brothers, Gerald T. Waddell and Jack M. Waddell. He

is survived by many cousins, 2 nieces, 4 nephews, and other family and friends too numerous to mention.

Graveside services for Mr. Billy Gene Waddell will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 16, 2023, at the Board Camp Cemetery in Board Camp, Arkansas. Brother Steve Raines will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be general.

Pallbearers will be David Parker, Den Youngblood, Dennis Rowe, Billy Carmack, Jeremy Gilcrest, and Robert Waddell.

Honorary Pallbearers are Larry Youngblood, Grady Broxton, Kevin Hodges, and Durad Bryan.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Tréci Jho Holt, 32, of Bearden died Monday, February 6, 2023, at her home. Born June 8, 1990, in Shreveport, LA, she was a daughter of Barney Noel Holt III of Shreveport, LA and the late Laurie Holt. She is preceded in death by her mother; paternal grandmother Betty Jho Holt and paternal grandfather Barney Noel Holt II. She is survived by her father; sister, Lela Smith and her husband Mike and their daughter Mila of Little Rock; sister, Hazel Holt of Conway; brother, Noel Holt and his wife Amanda and their children of New York; brother, Austin Holt of Shreveport; and bonus dad Jeff Hopkins of Bearden.

Tréci loved her family. She loved showering them with meaningful gifts that they will cherish for a lifetime. She loved sports and wore the number 13 throughout high school and college. Relationships were the most important thing to Tréci, making meaningful connections with people is what gave her the most joy. Her niece Mila was her whole world and she bragged on her every chance she got. She was artistic and unique and was loved by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce.

To sign the online register visit bentonfuneralhome.net

Tréci Jho Holt

Wanda C. Tilley

Mrs. Wanda C. Tilley, age 79, of Potter, Arkansas, passed away at her home Wednesday, February 8, 2023.

Wanda was born on April 27, 1943, in Vandervoort, Arkansas, to the late James “Obie” Cecil and the late Doyce Gibbons Cecil. Wanda was a homemaker and considered a mother to many. Her friends and family knew that her door was always open. She loved and will be remembered for her talent of quilting. She will be missed by all that knew her.

Wanda is survived by her husband, Ray Tilley; son, Dennis Cecil; numerous grand and great-grandchildren; a sister Letha Gonzales. Several nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Charlotte Ludwig; and three siblings.

Cremation arrangements were under the care of Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

George Trivette

Mr. George Trivette, age 86, passed away Wednesday, February 8, 2023, in Mena, Arkansas. He was born June 25, 1936, to the late Ballard Trivette and Myrtle Bryant.

George was the proud owner of George’s Auto Body. Mr. Trivette married Kenlinn Bartholomew on June 7, 1958, and they remained married till her passing. He loved fishing, camping and riding his motorcycle in his earlier years with his loving wife and brother-in-law. Above all else, he loved his children and grandchildren.

Mr. Trivette is preceded in death by his wife, Kenlinn Bartholomew; children, Jerry Trivette, Theresa Watson; parents, Ballard Trivette and Myrtle; one granddaughter, two sisters, and one brother.

He is survived by his children, Terrie Atkins, George Trivette Jr.; eight grandchil-

dren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Cremation services for Mr. Trivette are entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home; there are no services planned at this time.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Donald J. Bray

Mr. Donald J. Bray, age 88, went to be with the Lord on Friday, February 10, 2023, in Mena, Arkansas. He was born December 8, 1934, in Healdton, Oklahoma, to the late Walter Bray and Bessie Simrell Bray.

Mr. Bray enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and playing domino games, especially Moon. Donald loved watching football, especially the Dallas Cowboys. He was longtime member of the Northside Church of Christ in Mena. He will be remembered for his diligence in everything he did.

Mr. Bray is preceded in death by his parents, Walter Bray and Bessie Simrell Bray; wife, Ruth Bray; brothers, Raymond Bray, Glenn Bray; infant sister, Evellyn Bray; daughter, Reba Coyle; stepson, Russell Handy; and by his son-in-law, Bruce Meissner.

He is survived by his children, Debi Meissner, Cheryl Shogren and husband Michael, Sue Babel and husband Gary, Roy Handy and wife Kim, Cindy Murphy; grandchildren, Karen Lensch, Jennifer Brewer, Jaclyn Rose, Curtis Coyle, Jessica Ridge, Ronnie Handy, Blane Handy, Maci Parrish, Kaitlynne Murphy; 11 great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends too numerous to mention.

Services for Mr. Bray will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at the Northside Church of Christ in Mena, Arkansas. Brother Jeremy Jones will be officiating under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Board Camp Cemetery in Board Camp, Arkansas. Visitation will be general.

Pallbearers are Ronnie Handy, Blane Handy, Daniel Brewer, Daniel Parrish, Rennie Ohl, and Mike Hooper.

Online obituary and guestbook at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Stanley Eugene Lisle

Stanley Eugene Lisle, age 76, of Mena, died on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, at his home. He was born on Friday, January 3, 1947, to Stanley Phillip and Anna Doris Howard Lisle in Pomona, California.

Stanley was a Christian and was of the Baptist faith. Stanley was a man that had the willpower that was uncanny. He had many obstacles that he overcame all his life and never met a challenge he could not overcome. Stanley loved his grandchildren and his precious wife, Vina. They were married for 54 years and was a picture of love and happiness. Stanley loved playing pool, listening to oldies music and playing video games with his grandchildren. Stanley was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

Stanley is preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Anna Hanks.

Stanley is survived by his loving wife, Vina Lisle of Mena, Arkansas; one son and daughter-in-law, Gene and Shelah Lisle of Bauxite, Arkansas; two daughters and son-in-law, Regina and Kevin Taylor of Springdale, Arkansas and Alice Gilley of Mena, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Emmah Been of Bauxite, Arkansas, Nicholas Taylor, Chloe Taylor, Liam Taylor and Karson Taylor all of Springdale, Arkansas, and Timothy Lisle of Mena, Arkansas, and Harlan Gilley of Mena, Arkansas; several nephews and nieces and a host of other family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at the Murphy Baptist Church in Norman, Arkansas, with Brother Cub Black officiating. Interment will follow in the Murphy Baptist Church Cemetery. A visitation will be held Saturday, February 11, 2023, 2 hours prior to the service from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the Murphy Baptist Church in Norman, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Kevin Taylor, Timothy Lisle, Peter Creppel, Ray Maples, Frank Ginn and Steve Hanks.

Online guestbook: bowserffh.com

Mary Head

Mary Head, age 83, of Board Camp, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at her home. She was born on Friday, June 9, 1939, to Noah and Lucille Medford in Mena, Arkansas.

Mary attended the Yocana Baptist Church. She was a supervisor at Renova/Alf’s for many years and made many friends over the years. She was a very talented basketball player in school and was a great barrel racer. She loved rooting for the Razorbacks and was very skilled at many different crafts and could do anything she put her mind to. Mary loved life on the ranch and riding horses. She was a member of the Polk County Riding Club and was passionate about horses her entire life. Mary was a very talented cook, and everyone loved her homemade chicken and dumplings. Mary was a loving wife for 63, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Melvin Medford, and Junior Medford.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Dewey Head of Board Camp; one daughter, Tina McMellon of Board Camp; one sister, Fairy Dilbeck of Board Camp; one grandson, Cole McMellon of Board Camp; her best friend, Madge Peugh; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Lynn Chiles officiating. Interment will follow at the Board Camp Cemetery in Board Camp, Arkansas. Visitation will be general at the Bowser Family Funeral Home from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM during office hours on Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Pallbearers will be Pat Nelson, Danny Medford, Mike Logan, Jason Head, David Head, and James Looney.

Honorary Pallbearer is Larry Walker. Funeral service will be live streamed at https://bowserffh.com/obituaries/maryhead

William Kenneth Finney

William Kenneth Finney, age 76, of Mena, Arkansas, died on Monday, February 6, 2023, at the CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System in Texarkana, Texas. He was born on Thursday, July 29, 1946, to Johnny Warren and Etha Finney Doyel in Washington, D.C.

Kenny as he was known, was a man of the faith and served his Lord with all his heart. Kenny loved his family dearly and Jesus, his children and grandchildren brought him great joy. Kenny served his country in the United States Navy for 4 years and was an Airman on the USS Constitution. He served as Commander at the VFW in Waldron and drove the DAV van to Fayetteville, Arkansas for many years.

Kenny was a carpenter for many years and loved reading and going on walks and volunteering at local nursing homes. He was also a truck driver for Tyson for years and drove the van for the Area Agency on Aging. Kenny was a preacher all his life. He loved serving God and doing his work as a preacher. He attended Faith Chapel Pentecostal Church in Texarkana. He loved being a dad and grandpa or to great grands, paw paw. Kenny was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Wayne Doyel Bob Doyel and L.D. Doyel; and two sisters, Enola Gay Shifflet and Kathy Hope.

Kenny is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Finney of Texarkana, Arkansas; three sons and daughters-in-law, Johnny and Teresa Finney of Huntington, Arkansas, Robby and Christine Scroggins of Mena, Arkansas, and Corey Scroggins of Hot Springs, Arkansas; two daughters and sons-in-law, Heather and James Baker of Hartford, Arkansas, and Tonya and David Oney of Marshall, Texas; one sister, Trish Doyel of Fort Smith, Arkansas; twelve grandchildren, Brandon Seagraves of Waldron, Arkansas, Kaitlin Finney of Huntington, Arkansas, Nevaeh Finney of Huntington, Arkansas, Riley Seagraves, Josh Leach, Carmen Bauman, Kendra Griffey, Kirstie Stewart, Matt Stewart, Tyler Lofton, Victoria Baker, Ray Scroggins and Kase Scroggins; eight great grandchildren; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 17, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel with

Brother Tim Rose officiating. Interment will follow at the Foster Cemetery in Cedar Creek, Arkansas, under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday, February 17, 2023, from 8-10 A.M. at the funeral home.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

John Forsyth

John Forsyth, age 74, of Board Camp, passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, the National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on Saturday, November 27, 1948, to John and Bonnie Mae Forsyth in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

John was an active member and elder of the First Presbyterian Church in Mena. His favorite motto was “Carpe Diem” and he always did seize the day. He had a beautiful singing voice and was part of the choir for the Church of England in Canberra. John also had the honor to sing in the choir for the 9/11 services for the Ambassador and Prime Minister of Australia. He was passionate about music and loved opera, deep south and country music. John liked to stay occupied and had many various careers and even became a realtor after retirement. He was a talented chemist, creating ink formulas for many countries and companies. John enjoyed genealogy, exploring local and obscure history. He also liked to go to auctions and find hidden treasures to bring home. John lived all over the United States throughout his life and worked in many countries including India, Australia, and China. He enjoyed all the time he was able to spend with his grandchildren and loved his wife with all his heart. John leaves behind many dear friends and will be missed by all who knew him.

John is preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Linda Graham.

John is survived by his loving wife, Annet of Board Camp; one son and daughter-inlaw, James and Lillie Forsyth of Comanche, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Laura and Gary Delzer of Texas; grandchildren, Sarah, Thomas, Anorah, Noah, Natalie, and Nathan; honorary grandchildren, Cody and Hope; one sister, Jane Forsyth Miers of Little Rock; nephews and niece, Collier, John, and Elizabeth; and a host of other family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 17, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at the First Presbyterian Church in Mena, Arkansas with Pastor Bill Sietz officiating under the direction

of Bowser Family Funeral Home. A private interment will follow the service. A visitation will be held an hour prior to the funeral service in the First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church at 904 Church Ave, Mena, AR 71953.

Online guestbook: bowserffh.com

Vernon Lee Garret Sr.

Vernon Lee Garrett Sr., age 87, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2023, the Greenhouse Cottages in Mena, Arkansas. He was born on Monday, November 25, 1935, to Henry and Bessie Garrett in Wewoka, Oklahoma.

Vernon was a man of faith and loved the Lord. He read his bible daily and was a member of the Chant Lane Pentecostal Church in Boles, Arkansas. Vernon served in the Army and enjoyed traveling all over the United States. He was proud to help build two churches in Colorado where he also was part owner in a gold and silver mine.

Vernon always felt like Arkansas was his home so he settled in Boles and helped to build the church he currently attended. There he and his loving wife Theresa enjoyed working side by side with their Church Vacation Bible School. Together they purchased a farm with laying houses and raised their children. Vernon loved his children and grandchildren. He was proud of them all. Vernon loved to be outdoors. He became a small engine mechanic and worked on lawnmowers and classic cars. Vernon watched the news daily and enjoyed watching Andy Griffith and Hee Haw. Vernon was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed.

Vernon is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Bessie Garrett; his loving wife of 50 years, Theresa Garrett; one brother, Edward Benn Garrett; four sisters, Lydia Mae Garrett Harris, Lucy Lorene Garrett Stiles Jones, Amy Pauline Garrett and Bessie Denise Garrett; and one special son-inlaw, Monte Williams.

Vernon is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Dewey Lee Garrett and wife, Karla of Lowell, Arkansas, Vernon Lee Garrett Jr. and wife, Paula of Wetumpka, Alabama; two daughters and sons-in-law, Theresa Paulette Garrett Williams of Beaumont, Texas, and Melinda Carol Garrett McMellon and husband, Tim of Mena, Arkansas; one sister, Alice Mitchell of Moore, Oklahoma; eleven grandchildren, Derrick Williams, Michelle Garrett, Dewey Garrett Jr., Laura Page,

Michael Phillips, Matthew Phillips, Alisha Parnell, Julie Wells, Christopher McMellon, Brandon Garrett and Stephanie Garrett; several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Mike Shadden officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Six Mile Cemetery. A general visitation will be held on February 14, 2023, from 11:30 A.M to 12:30 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home.

Pallbearers are Derrick Williams, Michael Phillips, Matthew Phillips, Christopher McMellon, Brandon Garrett and Isiaha Stipe. Online guestbook: bowserffh.com

Terri Sue Keith, age 60, of Siloam Spring, Arkansas, passed away on February 7, 2023, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Terri was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas to C.L. and Patsy Cockburn on October 31, 1962. She went to high school at Mena High School and attained a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and Florida Metropolitan in Florida. She married Gary Keith on September 1, 1990, in Little Rock, Arkansas. She worked as the Chief Financial Officer for St. Francis House in Northwest Arkansas.

Terri and Gary have been married for 32 years and they cherished their time together. Both shared a passion for fishing and horses and they rarely spent time a part.

Terri is preceded in death by her brother Richard Landon Cockburn.

She is survived by her husband Gary, her brother Kyle Cockburn, parents C.L. and Patsy Cockburn; nephews and their spouses Andrew and Gabby Cockburn, Trever and Kiley Cockburn, and great niece Hope Cockburn.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday February 15, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Duncan Cemetery in Waldron, Arkansas. Arrangements are by the Martin Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking any donations be sent to the care of the Martin Funeral Home to help with the unexpected medical expenses. The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to our family, friends, and co-workers for all their support and prayers.

Terri Sue Keith

Creating a pipeline of VA health professionals

By Sen. John Boozman

I’ve been honored to serve on the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees to help craft policies designed to fulfill the promise we made to the men and women who served in our nation’s uniform by expanding access to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care, benefits and services. This responsibility also means ensuring we have qualified personnel across VA clinics to carry out this sacred task. We’ve taken important steps in recent months to bolster the VA’s workforce and we’re continuing to build on this foundation in the 118th Congress. As I visit with VA personnel across Arkansas, they frequently describe the persistent challenges with filling critical roles to provide care to veterans. Unfortunately, this is a problem nationwide. The VA’s Office of Inspector General found “severe occupational staffing

shortages” increased by 22% in Fiscal Year 2022 from the previous year.

It’s critical for the VA to always have the staff and leadership necessary to meet the needs of veterans no matter where they live. We’re working to enhance its ability to retain and recruit employees with new tools and resources to fulfill its mission.

Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) and I have partnered to introduce the “VA Clinician Appreciation, Recruitment, Education, Expansion, and Retention Support (CAREERS) Act,” legislation that would invest in VA personnel. Our plan would ensure the VA can retain and recruit physicians, nurses and other medical professionals in addition to employees who process benefits claims and others who support and care for our veterans.

We also included a provision in the “VA CAREERS Act” to address VA Medical Center leadership vacancies

and ensure the position of director is filled in a timely manner. The Fayetteville VA Medical Center (VAMC) was without a permanent director for nearly two years and only last month was someone new assigned to this role. This measure would make sure a plan is in place to fill this position within 180 days of a director being given a new VA assignment, which is particularly important given how essential directors are in overseeing the care of veterans at these facilities.

We’re gaining support for this initiative. In recent days Congressman Steve Womack also introduced a bill in the House of Representatives to limit the time VAMCs are without a permanent director.

The “VA CAREERS Act” accelerates the progress we made last year to grow the VA workforce. In August, Congress approved, and the president signed into law, the “PACT Act” to de-

liver toxic-exposed veterans their earned care and benefits. In the months following, the VA Secretary confirmed nearly 200,000 veterans have filed “PACT Act”-related claims making it even more imperative the Department has adequate staffing to manage the expanded eligibility.

In anticipation of an increase in claims, the “PACT Act” also included a number of measures to expand hiring and retention at the VA, especially in rural areas, as well as set higher pay caps for certain health professionals in order to remain competitive with the private sector.

We’re proud to build on this momentum with the “VA CAREERS Act” so medical professionals are enticed to begin and extend their careers serving veterans in rural communities and delivering the benefits and care these men and women have earned.

By Richie Lawry

I’m not too fond of cold weather. When I must be out in the cold, it puts me in a bad mood. My earliest memories of the cold are from when I was about five years old. My family moved to Michigan, and we lived with my grandparents. I had never seen so much snow in my short life. My Grandpa had a rule about watching television. If I wanted to watch a television program, I had to spend an equal amount of time outside. Because I wanted to watch Captain Kangaroo and Romper Room, I had to spend time outdoors in the cold Michigan winter. By the following winter, we had moved to Colorado. The winters there were not as extreme as in Michigan, but there was lots of cold weather. One cold weather experience that I remember was the day I turned 12 years old. I attended a small Christian school in Longmont, Colorado. We played snow soccer at recess on days when snow covered all the playground and equipment. Slipping and sliding in the snow was fun as we tried to kick the soccer ball, but I was so cold. I was looking forward to the end of the recess so I could return to school to warm up. But the teacher told us that because it was my birthday, we could stay outside and play soccer for an extra period. I didn’t think it was a great present.

I didn’t have a warm workplace for many years, so I spent much of the winter cold and miserable. But as much as I dislike the cold, I have always been fascinated by the stories of Antarctic explorers like Ernest Shackleton and Robert Scott. As a boy, I read everything I could find about Artic and Antarctic exploration.

Today I enjoy watching YouTube channels by vloggers who live in some of the coldest places on the planet. I love watching Life in Yakutia, Maria Solko’s vlog about her life in the world’s coldest permanently inhabited place. Another favorite is Cecilia Blomdahl, a Swedish girl living in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, the world’s northernmost town. I also watch the channel Talasbuan, which chronicles the life of Tova and

An Arkie’s Faith In from the cold

of ice. Heavy winds had set the ice fields of Lake Erie in motion and tons of ice had jammed the Niagara River. The ice blocked the flow of water until finally, there was a shift in the blockage and the river began flowing again.

Jesus tells us, “If anyone believes in me, rivers of living water will flow out from that person’s heart.” John 7:30 (NCV)

But he also warned us that in the last days, “Many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. Matthew 24:10-12 (NLT)

If we want God’s love, peace, and joy to flow, we cannot allow our love to grow cold. If we do, our hearts will become like ice. The world can be a cold place. But God has promised to keep us safe and warm. “He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” Psalms 91:4 (NLT)

Mathias, along with their son, Ivar, as they live off-grid in a small cottage in Northern Sweden. Learning about how people live in these harsh climates is very interesting. But I don’t want to experience the cold myself.

But as warm summer days come from God, so do cold winter days. “The stormy wind comes from its chamber, and the driving winds bring the cold. God’s breath sends the ice, freezing wide expanses of water. He loads the clouds with moisture, and they flash with his lightning.” Job 37:9-11 (NLT)

God designed the seasons and the different climates. I don’t think He is surprised when some of us are unhappy and depressed when it is cold. What does God say about winter? What can help us out of our winter blues? I like a verse that seems buried in the description of that perfect wom-

an found in Proverbs 31. “She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes.” Proverbs 31:21 (NLT) She was prepared for winter and welcomed it. She knew her family had provisions and supplies and warm clothes. She knew that winter was coming and planned for it.

Recently I read a historical story about Niagara Falls that I had never heard of before. The falls have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America. Six million cubic feet of water go over the falls every minute. But on March 29, 1948, the falls suddenly stopped. Those near the falls heard the overwhelming silence, and immediately they thought it was a sign that the end of the world had come! However, after 30 hours had passed, the flow of water resumed.

The river had stopped flowing because

Gentle Reader, Jesus knew the struggles we would face. He prayed for you and me when He was praying in the garden before His arrest. “I do not pray that you will take them out of the world. I pray that you will keep them safe from the evil one.” John 17:15 (NIRV)

The cold of the world around us will always be trying to get inside us, so we need to come in from the cold. Jesus says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (NLT)

Whenever you feel the cold of the world surrounding you, remember the promise found in Isaiah 41:10 (NLT). “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

God promises that he will not leave you out in the cold.

Snow atop an information kiosk at Rocky Mountain national Park in Colorado. (Photo by Richie Lawry)

Hogspore News: Shovel chocolate in your mouth

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson

Valentine’s Day was yesterday. If you didn’t have a Valentine, it doesn’t mean you can’t be happy. Today, buy the Valentine’s candy that’s on sale and shovel chocolate in your mouth til you’re in a coma.

Here’s an interesting statistic. Studies show that 1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep. That means 3 adults shouldn’t sleep in the same bed. If someone says, “Well, what about adult dogs, cats, or mules?”

I would say, “Shut up!”

This Friday is Bring Your Mule to Work Day. It’s official, the family pets won’t have to use a face mask. You can set them on Full-Bray. Let the hee-haws bong through the business district. The area is now a full block long, thanks to the recent opening of the Stills, Parts, and Supplies Shoppe. The farmers and ranchers have a chance to bring mules

to the Mule Beauty Pageant cause, there’s not much work for them. There’s always jealousy tween them and the city mules. The rural ones have time to wear costumes to spruce up, maybe get their hooves polished.

Mayor Ringer tried to smooth it over at the mule beauty contest last year by offering a joke before the judging began. “It’s time we put aside the annual bickering between the working mules and the pet mules. It behooves us to work together.” No one laughed, there was general grumbling among the mules. The mayor saved any rowdydow when he announced, “Free barbeque after the judging!” Everything settled down cause those mules love that barbeque.

Hank Ring has a new song. It’s a country novelty tune. Here’s the lyrics. If you need to hear it, then have at it. Like my Pappy, it’s streaming somewhere.

“Please Don’t Harm Monica”

Monica married you for better or worse.

Now you said that you wanted a divorce.**

Remember what I said at the wedding

That hot day in July.

If you hurt her, then you might have to die.

CHORUS:

Please don’t harm Monica.

Even though you don’t love her no more.

Please don’t harm Monica.

Cause you’ll be in the river, washing ashore.

You wooed, and courted her till she said yes.

She was sporting your ring, and then it got repossessed.

If I was you, I’d be on the bus out of town

Someplace far away.

Or stay here, and don’t see another day.

CHORUS:

Please don’t harm Monica. Even though you don’t love her no more.

Please don’t harm Monica. Cause you’ll be in the river, washing ashore.

Old Man Grimely related, “I was walking down Memory Lane, but I forgot why.”

**If you think that worse and divorce are a bad rhyme, remember, it’s a good rhyme for Hogspore.

You can contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson2007@AOL.com You know you wanna.

Camp Pioneer gets a new name and new life

By Pulse Staff

Over the second weekend of February, Pioneer Campgrounds hosted 22 scouts and scouters from Hope, Arkansas. The scouts of Troop 5, led by leaders Karen Smith and Dr. Lester Sitzes III, spent the weekend learning the aviation merit badge taught by the owner of Pioneer Campgrounds, Matt Foust. The scouts spent part of their day at the Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport at Runway

Aviation with Greg McDonald learning how to preflight an airplane.

Matt Foust

was a longtime staff member of Camp Pioneer and was willing to donate his time and money to provide the youth of Arkansas and Texas with a similar experience that was provided to him many years ago. He is an airline pilot for Southwest

Airlines and a federal law enforcement officer trained by the Federal Air Marshal Service. He is based in Denver, Colorado, and lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife Christine and son Cruz.

Camp Pioneer was the name of the local Boy Scouts of America camp in Hatfield, Arkansas, for over 100 years. Due to financial hardships and economic decline, the scout council was forced to sell their camp. Foust purchased a portion of Camp Pioneer and has re-created the experience under the name Pioneer Camp-

grounds.

Though it is much smaller now, Pioneer Campgrounds continues to provide leadership training to youth scouts, as well as hosting local events, weddings, family reunions, and motorcycle rallies. Pioneer Campgrounds is available to all law enforcement agencies free of charge for weekday or weekend events or gatherings.

For more information, please visit www.PioneerCampgrounds. com or find their app on the iOS App Store by searching Pioneer Campgrounds.

DMEC hosts second annual Girl Power to the Max contest

By Patrick Massey

GILLHAM - Anyone stopping by the De Queen-Mena Educational Cooperative on Thursday, Feb. 9 would have been amazed by the array of projects on display created through the use of CNC cutting and CNC laser technology.

What made it really cool? Every piece on display was designed and produced by a local high school girl.

The projects were created for this year’s Girl Power to the Max competition. Hosted by the DeQueen-Mena Educational Cooperative, the event’s core goal is to generate interest in non-traditional careers for young women in the manufacturing and construction sectors.

Around three dozen girls from 10 area school districts attended Thursday’s event in Gillham. This was the second year for Girl Power to the Max, the brainchild of Stacy Southerland, a career and technical education coordinator for the Gillham-based cooperative.

Southerland successfully obtained a grant in 2022 allowing the cooperative to purchase 12 laser-cutting systems and three plasma-based systems to be placed in schools across the region.

If the technology sounds sophisticated, that’s because it is. But Southerland says it’s vital young women know they are just as capable of finding a career in a field using these technologies as a young man would be.

“We’re trying to encourage girls that there are high-wage, high-skill careers in demand that are going unfulfilled that they can be very well-prepared for,” Southerland said.

Career readiness is an ever-increasing goal in education. The idea, educators explain, is for a student — one who doesn’t plan on attending college — to graduate high school on Friday and be prepared to land a career on Monday. Given the growing need for workers with technical backgrounds, it’s critical students are introduced to these career options as early as possible.

“What’s huge is that this event gives them an opportunity to use CNC equipment, to see the business owners and build skills for career readiness as soon as they walk out of high school,” Southerland said.

It’s an opportunity local young women are not wasting. The Girl Power to the Max event grew from a local event in 2022 to a regional competition in 2023 with over a hundred participants and over three times the total of submitted projects.

“I think this is important because it gives us girls an opportunity to do something we like rather than it always being about what the boys do,” she explained. “I feel that boys our age think they can do stuff better than what we can. But this gives us an opportunity to show them that we can do better than they can.”

event.

“I thought this was going to be a really good idea to come and see what I could do,” she said. “I made a foosball table, something fun me and my friends could play with. Something I can use after the competition.”

Mount Ida had two on its team to compete in this year's Girl Power to the Max CNC cutting competition held Feb. 9 in Gillham. The event was held to introduce young women to non-traditional careers in the construction and manufacturing sectors.

“Fast forward to this year, it’s year two and we’ve grown to a regional event,” she explained. “We have three cooperatives that are participating, we have 38 projects registered which we’ve grown from 10 last year, and we have 10 districts in total participating this year.”

Participants were tasked with entering a CNC-designed project to the competition. Winners from Thursday’s event will go on next month to a final regional contest in Texarkana. Top prizes at Thursday’s event included cash and tuition waivers at UA Cossatot and UA Rich Mountain.

Kinlee Stivers was one of the participants at this year’s Girl Power to the Max competition — her second to attend. Stivers’ hand-crafted wooden bench featuring a CNC-designed Razorback emblem was an instant crowd favorite. It’s a piece the Horatio 11th grader was very proud to show. But, most importantly, it highlighted her belief that these are the kinds of projects young women can and should pursue.

Stivers said her future career plans don’t include CNC-machining. She wants to earn a degree in physical therapy— another career much in demand.

Yet, she’s proud to be familiar with a skill as technical as laser and plasma cutting. If nothing else, it provides her with the know-how to make some really great Christmas gifts for her family.

“I can at least do it as a side job,” she said.

Maggie McDonald, a 10th grader at Foreman High School, was another participant in the competition. She entered a miniature but fully functional and completely handcrafted foosball table. It was an excellent piece and demonstrates the knowledge these girls brought to the

McDonald is thinking of a career in dentistry but is glad she possesses the ability to do something as hands-on and technical as CNC machining.

“I would like to get into welding because I like to do it,” she explained. “I don’t know if it’s something I’ll do but I like that it’s an option for me.”

McDonald seconded the idea that Girl Power to the Max highlights the technical career opportunities for young women.

“I feel like we don’t have as much opportunity for these kinds of things as the boys do,” she said. “They always rub it in our faces if they think they did better than us, when actually we did pretty good.”

Both girls plan to attend next year and hope other young women in the region take advantage of the opportunity provided through the competition.

“It’s something I really do recommend,” Stivers said. “It’s a really good opportunity and experience.”

“And it’s a lot of fun,” McDonald added. Parents and anyone interested in learning more about this year’s Girl Power to the Max competition can find lots of photos of the event on the Facebook page of the DeQueen-Mena Education Service Cooperative.

School Counselors Celebrate During National School Counseling Week

Submitted by Tammy L. Young

National School Counseling Week 2023, “School Counselors: Helping Students Dream Big,” sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), was celebrated from Feb. 6–10, to focus public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do.

National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.

The special week honoring school counselors provides recognition for school counselors who “implement comprehensive school counseling programs, a vital part of the educational process for all students as they meet

the challenges of the 21st century,” according to Mena Mayor Seth Smith and

Polk County Judge Brandon Ellison. In a proclamation, Mayor Smith and Judge Ellison cited school counselors for being actively engaged in helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents; for working in a partnership with parents as they encounter the challenges of raising children in today’s world; for focusing on positive ways to enhance students’ academic, career and social/ emotional development; and working with teachers and other educators to provide an educational system where students can realize their potential and set healthy, realistic and optimistic aspirations for themselves. School counselors are certified, experienced educators with a master’s degree in school counseling. The combination of their training and experience makes them an integral part of the total educational program. School counselors serving our school districts are:

• Linda Heath, ORSD-Acorn Elementary School Counselor

• Tammy Young, ORSD-Acorn High School Counselor

• KyLynn Ledbetter, ORSD Mental Health Counselor & Therapist

• Apryl Philpot, ORSD–Oden K-12 School Counselor

• Jill Hunter, Cossatot River High School Counselor

• Gina Rosson, Cossatot River High School Counselor

• Diane Richardson, Cossatot River Elementary School Counselor

• Avanlea Chaney, Mena–Louise Durham Elementary School Counselor

• Tonya Thacker, Mena–Holly Harshman Elementary School Counselor

• Leilani Rose, Mena Middle School Counselor

• Tim Walston, Mena High School Ninth Grade School Counselor

• Shannon Lyle, Mena High School 10-12th Grade School Counselor

“School counselors work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing students’ academic concerns, career options and social/emotional skills,” said Jill Cook, ASCA executive director. “School counseling programs help to increase student achievement and provide a much-needed resource for students, parents, teachers and administrators. School counselors are integral to student success.”

More than 100,000 school counselors nationwide will be participating in the week’s festivities. Many schools will be hosting special events and activities to call attention to the countless benefits of a comprehensive school counseling program.

Parents or community members with specific questions or concerns about school counseling programs should contact the school counselors at their local schools. More general information can also be found on ASCA’s website, www.schoolcounselor.org/ .

Harrison and Siegfried graduates from UA

Little Rock

LITTLE ROCK, AR (02/08/2023)Brandi Harrison and Beverly Siegfried, both of Mena, Arkansas, have graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock during the Fall 2022 semester.

Harrison graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.

Siegfried graduated with an Associate of Science in Law Enforcement as well as a Bachelor of Arts in

Mena’s Vacca and Decker make All-State Band

Criminal Justice.

UA Little Rock awarded about 600 degrees for the Fall 2022 semester. With about 9,000 students and 100 programs, UA Little Rock offers learning, research, service, social and career opportunities that can only be found at a metropolitan university located in Arkansas’s capital city.

Shelter Insurance® Foundation and Telissa

Montgomery sponsor scholarship

COLUMBIA, MO – [2023] – This spring, the Shelter Insurance Foundation will award a $1,500 scholarship to a graduate of Mena High School. Shelter Agent Telissa Montgomery sponsors and partially funds this scholarship.

A committee of local high school officials and community leaders will select the local recipient. The committee will consider each applicant’s scholastic achievements, educational goals, citizenship, moral character and participation and leadership in school and community activities. The scholarship is given without regard to race, disability, religion, national origin or gender of applicants. The name of the recipient will be announced at the close of the school year.

The student may apply the scholarship funds toward tuition, fees or campus housing for any course of study beginning the fall after the recipient’s high school graduation and leading to an academic degree at any

accredited college or university. The Foundation makes payment directly to the school the recipient selects.

Applications and additional information about the Shelter Foundation Scholarship will be available in January and should be completed and returned to the school official serving on the selection committee by March 31. For more information, interested seniors should contact their high school counselor or principal or Shelter Insurance Agent Telissa Montgomery.

The Shelter Insurance® Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation for charitable and educational purposes. It is sponsored by the Shelter Insurance Companies— offering auto, home, life, farm and business insurance services to customers in 15 states via a network of local insurance agents. The Shelter Insurance® Foundation is headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

Submitted by Mark Hobson

Every year thousands of students across the state compete for the honor of making the Arkansas All-State Band.

Congratulations to Hudson Vacca for making the all-state jazz band, 1st band, 2nd chair (second best jazz pianist in the state of Arkansas), and congratulations to Eric Decker for making all-state 3rd alternate on bassoon.

Hudson Vacca Eric Decker

Bohlman selected 2023 DMESC

Rural Education Teacher of the Year

Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Ouachita River School District is pleased to announce Mrs. Amanda Bohlman, Acorn Elementary School

“We are very proud of Mrs. Bohlman. She is a great, caring, and effective teacher,” ORSD Superintendent Jerrall Strasner stated. “It is a privilege and an honor to work with Mrs. Bohlman.

first grade teacher, was selected as the 2023 DeQueen-Mena Education Service Cooperative (DMESC) Rural Education Teacher of the Year. DMESC selected Bohlman for her outstanding instruction, teacher leadership and consistency in the classroom. Her name has also been submitted to the Arkansas Rural Education Association (AREA) for consideration for the statewide teacher of the year.

On Friday, Feb. 10, Acorn Schools made the announcement to Bohlman and the student body.

She pours her heart into teaching, designing lessons that are educational, engaging, interactive, and fun. She loves her students, and they love her! We are truly blessed that she is part of our ORSD family,” stated Mrs. Beth Jackson, Acorn Elementary School Principal.

Bohlman shared a quote, “When asked what makes a great teacher, I would say student/family relationships, flexibility, positive attitude, and great colleagues! Thank you for this award, I am truly honored!”

Amanda Bohlman (far right), selected as the DMESC Rural Education Teacher of the Year, shares the moment with her family. (Photo courtesy of ORSD)

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 Office worked 2 vehicle accidents this week.

Polk County Detention Center

Jail Population: 22 Incarcerated Inmates with 15 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

Police

Truck belonging to regional circuit judge stolen

By Patrick Massey

Minor and Probation Violation.

Deputies responded to a residence on Polk 627 near Mena in reference to a stolen firearm.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG MENA POLICE REPORTS

February 6, 2023

Deputies responded to a residence on Polk 44 near Mena in reference to a structure fire.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 167 near Potter in reference to a stolen ATV.

Deputies responded to a residence on Polk 184 near Acorn in reference to threats being made. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies responded to a report of a dog bite victim.

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

February 7, 2023

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 68 near Cherry Hill in reference to a burglary

February 8, 2023

David Hale, 35 of Mena was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole to be held.

February 9, 2023

Richard Smiley, 64 of Mena was arrested on a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant.

Gavin Whitmire, 31 of Grannis was arrested by an officer with Probation Parole on Felony Warrants for Residential Burglary, Harassment, Endangering the Welfare of a

February 10, 2023

Deputies responded to a report of an accident on Hwy 270 near Rich Mountain.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a violation of an order of protection.

February 11, 2023

Deputies responded to a report of harassment. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

A traffic stop on Polk 31 led to the arrest of Nicholas Jackson, 27 of Sterlington, LA on a charge of DWI as well as a citation for Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License and Defective Equipment.

February 12, 2023

Deputies responded to a residence on Davis Lane near Mena in reference to fraud.

Deputies took a report of battery from a walk-in complainant. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies responded to an address on Farmers Lane near Hatfield in reference to animal neglect.

Joshua Hagler, 24 of Hatfield was arrested on charges of DWI and Careless and Prohibited Driving.

February 5

A report of assault was taken at a residence on Mena Street. A report of disorderly conduct was taken on 4th Street.

Michael Williams, 41, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

Matthew Anderson, 41, was charged with DWI after an accident on Highway 71.

February 6

A report of criminal mischief was taken from a walk-in complainant.

February 7 No report.

February 8

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

February 9

A report of a disturbance was taken at a residence on Evans Circle.

Carol Gregory was charged with theft of property and served with warrants at Walmart.

February 10 No report.

February 11 No report.

NASHVILLE – Authorities in Southwest Arkansas are searching for a man suspected of stealing a vehicle belonging to a local circuit court judge on Thursday.

According to the Howard County Sheriff’s Office, deputies took a report Thursday morning from Ninth West Judicial Circuit Court Judge Bryan Chesshir after he found his truck missing from his residence. The truck was later found parked at a set of apartments near Cassidy Street in Nashville.

Investigators found the truck damaged and ransacked. The vehicle was processed and Howard County authorities determined two handguns and cash was missing from the truck.

The investigation led the Howard County Sheriff’s Office to develop 28-year-old Xavier Melton of Texarkana as a suspect in the theft. An arrest warrant was reportedly obtained for Melton’s arrest. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Howard County Sheriff’s Office by calling 870-845-2626.

CLASSIFIEDS

Help us build our Classified Section. Get your word ads out to 8,000+ viewers a week for a minimum cost. If you have a listing, sale item(s), job opening, tradewe can put it in an ad for you!!

1168 Hwy 71 So - Mena, AR

You can call, fax or email BUT all ads must be pre-paid.

SERVICES -

Wendell’s Tree Service - Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328. T0308

Handyman services - small jobs preferred. Plumbing, electrical, small engine repair. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204.

T0215

Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts. Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976. T0301

Daniel’s carpentry and painting and handyman service. Deck and privacy fences, etc. Call (479) 216-1101 or (479) 216-2299.

T0222

Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0301

- HELP WANTED -

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0222

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment

T0222

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

T0308

- JOBS WANTED-

Full time caregiver available in Mena area. Honest and reliable. 20 years experience. Good references. Call Ann (479) 234-0461 T0222

SKL Custom Sawmilling, on-site in Nunley area. Call for details: Kenneth (479) 2163913 or Leroy (870) 582-5817. T0222

FOR SALE -

Firewood for sale, oak, green or seasoned. $80 per rick, delivered. Call (479) 234-1528. T0222

F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0222

Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced TIG Welder for a permanent day shift position. The applicant must be proficient in welding aluminum.

Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0222

LEGAL NOTICE

INVITATION TO BID

The Polk County Housing Authority will receive sealed bids under HUD procedures for lawn and grounds maintenance services until 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 28, 2023. Bid packets are available upon request at the Housing Authority office at 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The Authority desires to enter into a contract for these services for a period of one (1) year with the option to renew at the sole discretion of Polk County Housing Authority for three (3) additional one-year periods.

This bid will be to provide lawn and ground maintenance services at six sites within Polk County, including all labor, supervision, equipment and supplies for mowing, string trimming and cleanup services. A complete description of services requested, and requirements are included in the bid packet. A mandatory pre-bid visit of sites is scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 21, 2023, beginning at the housing authority office.

The Polk County Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids and to waive informalities.

Sealed bids must be received at the Housing Authority office 509 South Morrow, Mena, AR 71953, attention Dixie Shrader, no later than 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 28, 2023, CLEARLY LABELED- LAWN CARE BID 2023.

Community

Ash Wednesday Service with Rev. Scott Stewart at First United Methodist Church, 501 Ninth St., Mena, 5 p.m., Feb. 22. (479) 394-3051.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 1010 Dequeen St. in Mena, begins their Lenten season on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. with a worship service with the Imposition of Ashes! All are welcome to worship with us and be blessed as we hear, “The Cries of the Passion”! For more information, please call (479) 394-1290.

Humane Society of the Ouachitas will be meeting Thursday, Feb. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at La Villa in Mena.

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, noon-1 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 p.m. on Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday, and 6 p.m. on Saturday at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at (479) 234-5289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300.

Henry Classic Lever Action .22 Carbine Rifle to be given away Feb. 25 at the Gillham Fire Department at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 each or five tickets for $20. All proceeds will go to Rebecca (Burris) Alexander to help with funeral and other expenses. Her husband Mikeal Alexander died suddenly Jan. 8. There will be a pulled-pork sandwich dinner by donation from 4-6 p.m. and an auction from 6-8 p.m. Any items can be donated for the auction. Call Judy Oliver at (870) 584-8254 or Maude Burris at (870) 386-2530 for any questions or to buy tickets.

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 Hatfield Branch Library is open every Tuesday and Friday from noon-4 p.m. The library

Around Town

is located at 121 Cemetery Rd. (old Agri building) in Hatfield.

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.

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

The Center has an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459.

Board Camp Baptist Church will distribute food to anyone in need on Thursday, Feb. 16 from 10 a.m.-noon. Board Camp Baptist Church is located at 107 Polk 63, at the corner of Highway 8 East and county road 63, approximately 9 miles east of Mena.

DIY Learn Something New will make corn shuck dolls on Saturday, Feb. 18 beginning at 10 a.m. at the Extension Education Building located at 211 DeQueen St. Please call the extension office at (479) 394-6018 to register by Friday, Feb. 17, so we will have enough supplies. Extension Homemakers invite the community to “Learn Something New”.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has meals and activities for seniors. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 385-2373.

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.

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.

Happy birthday Wingo Johnson! Help celebrate Feb. 25 from 1-3 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. Your presence is all the gifts Wingo would love to have. RSVP (918) 775-4929

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.

American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows.

Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m.

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

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call (479) 243-0297.

Bluegrass Jam Session is open to musicians and fans alike. Bring your instruments for an unplugged session to the Daisy Room (behind Janssen’s Avenue Florist & Gifts) the first and third Thursdays of each month, starting at 6:30 p.m. Free event. Some snacks are provided.

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!

continued from page 1

his own production company, Revelations Entertainment.

Turns out the Memphis native was in town to have work done on his light business jet at Rose Aircraft Services. Daniel Brewer, director of interior and completion sales, said Freeman is a first-time customer. Rose Aircraft is performing a complete custom exterior paint and interior refurbishment.

Brewer said, “Mr. Freeman has a deep aviation history. He has owned several of his own aircraft and has been a pilot for over 20 years. He currently has a full-time pilot.”

According to the Internet Movie Data Base (IMDB), Freeman earned his pilot’s license at the age of 65. It would appear his love for flying stems back quite a way. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1955, rising to the rank of Airman 1st Class. He was an air mechanic for four years but had considered becoming a fighter pilot.

Perhaps Freeman will make Mena a regular destination to chill when he’s not swamped with work or relaxing on a boat in the Caribbean. He reportedly has recently finished four projects, two of which are due out in 2023, has another project in production, and an upcoming film in pre-production.

Brewer said, “He and his crew thought Mena was a wonderful little town, they loved the mountains and all the natural beauty we have here. They compared it to some of the scenic locations they have filmed in before.”

Many people would probably be surprised at the number of airplanes and jets that come to Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport to be worked on or for training, ranging from private individuals and businessmen to celebrities or the military.

Brewer said, “This is not the first time that celebrities or professional athletes have come to Rose Aircraft Services. We have worked on aircraft for many notable people over the years; it’s what we do and who we work for. We have built a global reputation that will be 60 years old next year. It was an absolute honor for our design team, my wife and myself to spend one on one time with Mr. Freeman and his crew. They truly are special people with a global influence.”

OLT comedy opens this weekend

Submitted by Julie Ulmer

Ouachita Little Theatre is reviving one of the most popular vintage comedies ever produced. “You Can’t Take It With You” by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart is a Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy that celebrates non-conformity. It boasts an ensemble cast directed by Amanda Baker that includes OLT veteran actors as well as some very talented newcomers.

Assistant director Sarah Lewis shared her thoughts on working on this OLT winter production. “Set in the 1930’s, this iconic production will transport you completely to another era. It will have you laughing through the whole show! This kooky comedy is truly one of a kind, and I couldn’t be prouder of the unique cast of characters that is

involved. We are truly lucky to have such talented actors living right here!”

Performance dates are scheduled for Feb. 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26. OLT is varying a bit from their regular scheduling by having three matinees for this show. The Friday and Saturday shows on the 17, 18, and 24 will all be at 7:30 PM. The traditional Sunday

matinees are at 2:30 p.m. with an additional matinee (no evening performance) on Saturday, Feb. 25.

Reserved tickets are recommended and available now online at oltmena.com or at the OLT office located at 610 Mena St. during office hours. Tickets will also be available at the door. Season tickets are accepted for this show and may be used to reserve seats through the website or in person at the office.

Basketball

2/13-2/18 - Sr. High District Finals

Wrestling

2/24-2/25 - State Tournament

‘The Hit’ film extras needed

Production is under way in Little Rock on the feature film “The Hit”.

football team, led by Coach Bradford Bolding.

Lady Eagles heading to district after wins

Basketball

2/13-2/18

Inspired by a true story, the movie is a coming-of-age dramedy about a teenage girl who joins a boy’s high school football team. After playing with the boys as a 15-year-old, she quits the team and puts football behind her— but after a two-year hiatus, her passion for the sport returns and now she has to contend with bigger boys and even bigger egos. With the help and support of her family, she begins to realize that succeeding at football is more about the size of her determination rather than the size of her body.

Additional scenes, including several football games, will be filmed in Little Rock.

And there is an opportunity for Little Rock residents to appear as extras in the movie. Football scenes will be filmed on Friday, Feb. 24 at Pinnacle View Middle School. There are bleachers to fill, and all are welcome. Anyone interested is invited to register their interest with the film’s background casting director, Warren McCullough, who can provide all the details.

By Patrick Massey

WICKES—The Cossatot River Lady Eagles are conference champions and are off to the district tournament following Friday night basketball action on Feb. 10.

Basketball

2/14 - Sr. High District Finals

Basketball

2/13-2/18

Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School in Little Rock will be one of the primary filming locations. Principal Eric Henderson and Doctor Dexter Booth, working with Christopher Crane of the Arkansas Film Commission, were instrumental in bringing the production to the school. The film will also feature members of the state championship winning Parkview Patriots

For Los Angeles based producers Rick Benattar and Nigel Thomas, this is their eighth film to be shot in Arkansas.

Benattar said, “In Arkansas we have found world-class crew and facilities, terrific locations, strong support from the Film Commission and the state, and a warm welcome everywhere we go. It’s become our favorite filming location.”

Contact to register interest in being extras: Warren McCullough, wjmcasting@gmail.com .

Friday evening, the Lady Eagles snapped Booneville’s 30-game conference winning streak with a 45-33 victory, giving the Lady Eagles the chance to claim the conference championship in their final game against Charleston on Saturday with a 48-22 win. The Lady Eagles took care of business, defeating Charleston to improve to 13-1 in conference and clinching the number one seed going into the district tournament this week.

The seeding guarantees the Lady Eagles a spot in the regional tournament. The Eagles also ended the regular season in exciting fashion, defeating conference champion Charleston. The Eagles will be the No. 5 seed heading into the 4-3A District Tournament this week at Paris.

Acorn student Matthew Stout wins gold

Submitted by Tammy L. Young

The Special Olympics Arkansas Winter

Games kicked off in Springdale, Arkansas, on Feb. 10 with 500-1000 athletes competing in the games. This year’s games included floor hockey and floorball.

Competing on the Area 17 Special Olympics Team for Unified Floorball included Matthew Stout and his father, Steven Stout. Out of 14 teams competing, Area 17 won gold.

Matthew is a member of the Special Olympics Arkansas Youth Activation Committee. Both Matthew and Steven will be speakers at the upcoming Law Enforcement Torch Run Committee Meeting.

Congratulations to Area 17 and to both Matthew and Steven Stout! We are proud of you!

Acorn wrestlers win regionals Heading to state

Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Ouachita River School District Acorn High School hosted the 5A South Regional Wrestling Tournament on Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Acorn Gymnasium.

The Acorn Wrestling Lady Tigers competed strong, placing top in regionals and all three will be representing Acorn Wrestling at the state tournament, Feb. 24-25 at UALR.

Shay Allen won her match and placed as regional champion in her classification.

Emery Jai Anderson won both of her matches and placed as regional champion in her classification.

Emma Arnold lost her match and placed runner-up in her classification.

Coach Andy Arnold stated, “We are so proud of their hard work this year and we look forward to their success at State! Go Tigers!”

(L-R

) Coach Andy Arnold, Emma Arnold, Emery Jai Anderson and Shay Allen.