Polk County Pulse February 23, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

February 23, 2022

Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com

Wild Winds and Freezing Temps

INSIDE:

Mena High School losing weight for animals

By Trey Youngdahl

Candidate Filing Begins

Page 21

Wind was at an average of 9 mph on Feb. 15, reaching gusts of 20 mph.

This led to structural damage like the damage seen at 520 Janssen Avenue.

(Trey Youngdahl/Pulse)

Avian Influenza

Page 22

AEDC Awards Local Schools

Page 19

Celebrating

Mena High School (MHS) is converting their former weight room into an animal science laboratory.

Situated right next to the MHS Ag Science facility, the weight room was an ideal candidate to be transformed into the Ag department’s Animal Sciences lab. Students enrolled in Animal Sciences classes will now have the resources to work hands-on with live animals in a laboratory environment during the school day.

The facility will also be used for the Mena FFA (Future Farmers of America) and 4-H exhibitors to fit and groom their livestock projects in preparation for livestock shows.

In a public statement, the Mena High School FFA shared their excitement. “We are very excited for this addition and look forward to using it upon completion!”

Mena FFA is also congratulating member Lacy Floyd for being selected as their FFA Member of the Month for January. To earn this, See FFA continued on page 2

NATIONAL FFA WEEK

February

19-26

2 News FFA continued from page 1 Floyd sold over $2,500 worth of Blue and Gold meat in Mena’s first ever sale. Blue and Gold is an Oklahoma based fundraising company that provides pork sausage and chicken fritters for fundraising.

Floyd is currently the chapter secretary, a member of the Livestock Judging Team, and on the Trap Shooting Team. She is also part of the Mena FFA Show Team where she exhibits market goats and lambs.

February 23, 2022 Sen. John Boozman recently spoke about the impact groups like FFA can have on our youth.

“I often come away from the many daily meetings I have inspired to act.

In many cases, the discussion inspires me to introduce legislation, help a constituent resolve an issue or aid a community in need with federal resources,” Boozman said. “My meeting with the National FFA officers was inspirational on a different level. It served as a reminder that our future is bright.”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

TNA newest member of the Chamber

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, February 10, to welcome TNA Towing & Recovery, owned by Bradley and Leigh Garner, to the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce membership.

TNA provides a variety of towing and recovery services to the Polk County area. “If you are on the highway or off the grid, ‘We Go There’,” says owner Bradley Garner.

To reach Garner for towing services, call 479-216-9680.

TNA Towing & Recovery is owned by Bradley and Leigh Garner, pictured center, with their two sons, Austin and Tucker. Also pictured (l-r) Chamber President LeAnn Dilbeck, Jodi Croft of Pulse Multi-Media, Chamber Board Member Sara Mitchell, and Holly Henry, Chamber Vice-President.

(Photo courtesy of Mena/Polk Chamber of Commerce)

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

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Your Pulse!

Letter to the Editor: ENOUGH...That is as close as I can come to screaming as I type. I have bit my tongue as I heard the drum beat of defund the police and the media beat that drum the loudest.

Rather than defund, how about pay and benefits commensurate with an often-thankless job that most do not want to do that can end your life in a split second, without warning?

How about training and up-to-date equipment?

How about complying with lawful authority?

Maybe you may try to respect the rights of others. Maybe work to buy the things you want rather than loot and burn. Maybe we should elect leaders that support our law enforcement officers all the time, not just when it is politically expedient.

I have the utmost respect for those still serving. I have walked in those shoes and suggest to those so quick to minimize our law enforcement officers, to blame them for the shortcomings of our society, that you ask what life would be if they were they not there to stand between you and those who follow no rules and have no mercy on the weak or unprepared. Trust me when I say that if someone is willing to assault or kill an armed, trained police officer then they will not hesitate to end your life.

I have a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach every time an officer is killed or injured on or off duty, no matter the jurisdiction. The news is so unfeeling and sanitary as a reporter drones on about the details of the incident absent emotion, while at the same time telling the story of the assailant who is often paint-

ed a victim. I feel the loss of each officer.

I feel for the family they leave behind. I feel for the agency that loses a comrade and must carry on without a fellow officer and bring their assailant to justice.

At the same time that I feel grief, I feel anger at those in the media and politicians who turn a family’s suffering into a political tool to push an agenda. No sooner were two young officers gunned down in New York City recently did politicians and a willing media start the gun control mantra. I think it was Rahm Emanuel who said never let a crisis go to waste.

I have said this before...before you can answer a question, you must first understand the question. The question is not what tool are we harming each other with, but rather why are we doing the harming in the first place. None of the knee-jerk reactions to gun violence have addressed that with any success. Someone once said that insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.

I feel lucky to live here in the state I was born and raised in. Our city, county, and state law enforcement officers are second to none. They do a job every day at great personal risk and never falter.

As long as I have a breath in my body, I stand with them and thank them for their selfless service. Carry on brave officers and may God bless and watch over you, each and every one.

If you read the Bible, read Romans 13:4. I took comfort in that verse when one of our police chaplains introduced me to it many years ago.

Again, I thank you for allowing me a forum to share my thoughts.

- Ronald Goss, Mena, U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran, Retired Virginia Beach Police Department

News 3

Want to share your opinion?

The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language.

The letter must include a signature to be considered for publication. Signatures will NOT be held out by request.

The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher.

Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A dropbox is provided by the front door for after-hour convenience.

TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS Email: NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM

4

February 23, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

February 23, 2022

From the

State House of Representatives

pact statement be submitted beThe 93rd General Assembly is fore the legislature can consider now entering the second week of any bill that will impose a new the 2022 Fiscal Session. or increased cost obligation for The session began with an adhealth benefit plans. dress by Governor Asa HutchinHB1099-This bill establishes son in which he outlined his budthe Employee Benefits Division get priorities for the next fiscal Oversight Subcommittee of the year.

John Maddox Legislative Council. The subIn addition to increases in committee will have oversight of funding for education and healthcare, the Governor is requesting all decisions of the State Board of Finance funding for the Crime Victims Repara- related to the State and Public School Life tions Program, child abduction response and Health Insurance Program.

HB1100-This bill creates a State Emteams, and two new drug courts.

The Governor voiced his support for an ployee Health Benefit Advisory Commisincrease in pay for state troopers. He is also sion and a Public School Employee Health requesting $45 million in surplus funds to Benefit Advisory Commission.

The commissions will review finanbe used as a $5,000 one-time payment for every county and city-certified law en- cial information and potential viability of funding as well as provide recommendaforcement officer.

He is requesting surplus funds be used tions to the State Board of Finance.

HB1097-This bill states it will be the for safety equipment for law enforcement and for investment in a new prison facility. responsibility of the House and Senate Members will be reviewing these re- Committees on Education, through the biennial adequacy review, to determine quests in the days ahead.

Meanwhile, the House passed several the health insurance contribution rate to appropriation bills this week for various be paid by each public school district.

The House will reconvene on Tuesday, boards and commissions.

The House also passed the following February 22, at 1 pm.

You can watch all committee meetings legislation addressing health benefit plans and House proceedings at www.arkansasfor public school and state employees: HB1098-This bill requires a fiscal im- house.org.

Contact Your Legislators!

John Maddox

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

Larry Teague

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

John Boozman

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

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

From the

State Senate bills that will set budgets for The legislature completed state agencies and determine the first week of the 2022 fiscal how much state aid will go session, approving budgets for to public schools and institunumerous state agencies and tions of higher education. advancing reforms of public One reason the budget bills health insurance systems. moved so swiftly through For almost a year a group of the legislative process is that legislators has been working Larry Teague lawmakers began working on on the complex task of reformthem months ago. The legislaing state employee and teachture held budget hearings in January, er health insurance systems, which but all last year lawmakers met reghave experienced financial problems ularly to monitor state government to the extent that lawmakers last year spending. They also met regularly to replaced their governing board. review state agency personnel deciOne goal of the reforms is to presions and transfers of money within vent spikes in health insurance predepartments. miums that would eat up much of the pay raises that teachers and pubHomeowner Assistance lic employees get. In the past, the Arkansas homeowners can now state has had to shore up the systems’ apply for assistance if they have exfinances with extra funding in order perienced financial hardships due to avoid sharp premium increases. to the Covid-19 pandemic. The state Another goal is to provide legislahas $54 million to award people tors with more oversight authority struggling to make mortgage payover the systems. Another proposed ments or utility bills. bill would require fiscal impact stateThe program is administered by ments when benefit changes are prothe Arkansas Development Finance posed, to avoid unexpected conseAuthority (ADFA) and it is called quences. the Homeowner Assistance Fund Other measures would require the (HAF). systems to increase reserve funds, so Eligibility depends on your income they’re better able to remain finanand where you live. To apply, and cially solvent. They would spell out to determine whether or not you’re the financial thresholds that would eligible, go to the HAF page on the require members to increase contriADFA web site. Search the Internet butions into the systems. for arkansashaf and you’ll get to the One bill modifies retirees’ eligibilADFA site. ity for health insurance, requiring The program is for homeowners them to have participated for at least who have lost their jobs or businessfive years in order to get benefits. es due to the pandemic, and is meant Another bill sets new rules for to prevent foreclosures or delinquent health insurance coverage of morbid payments. Homeowners can also use obesity through the use of bariatric grants to stay current on their utility surgery. bills.

Most of the health insurance bills In addition to the web site, you can have an emergency clause, so they call ADFA at 888.698.0964 from 8 will become law on the day they are a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Frisigned by the governor. day and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

The Senate made excellent progress on a long list of appropriation

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

February 23, 2022

Stephen Wayne Ellison

S t e p h e n Wayne Ellison, age 63, of Board Camp, Arkansas, died, Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at the National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Steve was born on Wednesday, January 7, 1959, to Wayne Gene and Annette LaForge Ellison in Hallettsville, Texas.

Steve grew up on the family farm in Board Camp, AR, and attended Board Camp Baptist Church. Steve had many fond memories from those days. Pastor and Mrs. Vernual Ridgeway were instrumental in him coming to Christ and surrendering to the ministry. Pastor Ridgeway baptized Steve in Board Camp Creek when he was thirteen years old. Steve graduated 3rd academically in the 1977 class of Mena High School. Steve participated in basketball and was a starter on the 1976 Arkansas State Champion Football Team from Mena H.S. After high school, Steve earned a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Steve later graduated with highest honors with a Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO. Steve also earned certification in Intentional Interim Ministry from the Center for Congregational Health in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He later earned certification in Basic Christian Apologetics from the Creation Apologetics Teachers College based in Idaho.

In 1984, Steve put his double majors of Physical Education and Social Studies to use as a public school teacher and coach for ten years in Gatesville, TX. Steve also taught and coached in Cedar Hill, TX as well as Waldron and Mena, AR. Steve was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as a student at Mena H.S. and in three of the schools where

he coached. That FCA involvement led him to raise the necessary funds to open an FCA office in Waco, TX where he served as that office’s first Area Representative. Steve ministered on more than two-hundred school campuses in a twelve-county area around Killeen and Waco including Baylor University.

During that time, Steve was ordained to the gospel ministry by Trinity Baptist Church in Gatesville, TX. Because of their FCA relationship, Grant Teaff preached Steve’s ordination message.

Steve served in FCA as a volunteer for many years and for nine years in a variety of paid positions. He worked alongside many great and humble men, including Coach Teaff, Gene Stallings, Burton Lawless, Bobby Bowden, Cody Carlson, Tom Osborne, Spike Dykes, Tom Landry, and many others. Because of the FCA position, Steve began to receive requests to fill in for ill or traveling pastors. Before long, a small country church in Crawford, TX, asked Steve to be their bi-vocational pastor where he served for four and one-half years while also continuing to serve as the Area Director for the Heart of Texas FCA. After that, Steve transitioned into a full-time pastorate in Hodgen, OK, and later in the Hot Springs area.

In January of 2012, Steve simultaneously began serving as the Manager and Administrator for the Ouachita Baptist Assembly and as the Interim Pastor for Horatio FBC. After his ministry at Horatio, Associational Missionary duties were added to his OBA responsibilities. Steve then served as Interim Pastor at Mena FBC and Calvary BC. Steve wrote a weekly devotional column published across several southern states in hundreds of newspapers. Steve was even selected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Arkansas Baptist Newsmagazine for 2018 and 2019.

Steve’s final pastorate was at Salem Baptist Church in Nunley, AR. During his ministry at Salem, he continued to teach Seminary Extension classes through the Ouachita Theological Training Institute in Mena, De Queen,

and at the Jim E. Hamilton Correctional Center in Hodgen. He loved the Salem children dearly and the entire Salem church. His heart was for discipleship across all ages. Steve tirelessly and faithfully served the Lord at home and vocationally throughout his entire life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Ellison and one brother, Michael Ellison.

Steve is survived by his wife of 30 years, Malea Ellison of Board Camp; his mother, Annette Ellison of Board Camp; his sons and wives, Levi and Jessica Ellison of Mena and Caleb and Sidney Ellison of Conway; bonus son and fiance, Kendall Pearce and Ronni Denham of Hot Springs; his brother and wife, Brandon and Linda Ellison of Mena; one unborn grandson, Daniel Scott Ellison of Mena; Malea’s parents, Richard and Mary Ruth Martin of Mena; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 10:00 A.M. at the Salem Baptist Church with Brother Bill Carter officiating. Interment follows in Pinecrest Cemetery in Mena, Arkansas under the direction of the Bowser Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday, February 18, 2022, from 6-8 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home, 150 Hyatt Court, Monticello, Arkansas 71655 or at https:// arkansasfamilies.org/give-now

Cathy Youngblood We regret to announce the passing of Cathy Yo u n g b l o o d , age 71, of Mena, Arkansas on Sunday, February 12, 2022. She was born March 23/24, 1950, to the late “Red” Jesse Oliver and Irene Catherine Cox Smith.

Pulse

She always liked to joke that she got to celebrate on both dates, as she was born at midnight! She attended Arkansas Tech University and majored in accounting. She opened Farmers Tax Service in 1973 and still operated until her passing. Cathy never met a stranger.

She loved people and had a gift of making everyone feel special. She loved her church family! She was always young at heart. Cathy was knowledgeable on every subject and was always anxious to help.

Cathy was predeceased by her son, Toby Youngblood; parents, “Red” and Irene Smith; nephew, Glendon Youngblood; nieces, J.J. Smith Samuels and Sherry Bruce; and by her special aunt, Mary Bell Moore.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, W.T. Youngblood; son, Rusty Youngblood and wife Nancy of Wickes, Arkansas; granddaughters, Stacia Cranford and husband Jason of Horatio, Arkansas, Kassi Strother and husband Rodey, of Mena, Arkansas, Courtney Youngblood of Wickes, Arkansas, Mercy Morgan, Adelyn Youngblood, and Lucy Hight of Rogers, Arkansas; grandsons, Chaddon, Max, and Xander Youngblood of Rogers, Arkansas; great-grandchildren, Anzlie and Steel Strother of Mena, Arkansas; and brother, Harold Smith of Mena, Arkansas.

Services for Mrs. Youngblood will be held Friday, February 18, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Indian Mission Baptist Church in Smithville, Oklahoma.

Brother Brandon White will be officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Gann Cemetery in Potter, Arkansas.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 17, 2022, at the Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Pallbearers are Jason Cranford, Rodey Strother, Troy Denton, Clint Kesterson, Jeried Youngblood, Andy Youngblood, Darvin Youngblood, and Jerry Youngblood.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Judith Ann Hynes

Judith Ann Hynes, age 75, of Mena, Arkansas, died Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at her home. She was born on Sunday, May 5, 1946, to Edgar Albert Cheesley and Mildred Aldrich Chambers in Romford, England.

Judith was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mena. She was very outgoing and opinionated, but also loving and cared about everyone immensely. Judith was passionate about life and loved living it to the fullest. She enjoyed taking care of her cats and watching all the wildlife around her home. She loved to visit with friends and family, especially talking to her grandchildren on the phone. Judith enjoyed life and all it had to offer and cherished her family with all her heart. She enjoyed many kinds of music, Mumford and Sons, Van Morrison, and Pink Floyd were some of her favorites. Judith was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one son, Timothy Hynes; one grandchild, Liam Istre; and one brother, Peter Cheesley.

Judith is survived by her loving husband, Christopher Hynes of Mena; one son and daughter-in-law, David and Kandi Hynes of Colorado; one daughter and son-in-law, Elizabeth and Byron Istre of Duson, Louisiana; one brother, John Cheesley of Rock Springs, Wyoming; one sister, Nancy Robbins of Scott, Lou-

isiana; nine grandchildren, Kyle Hynes and wife, Suzy, Trent Hynes and wife, Lydia, Mallerie Hynes, Landri Hynes, Deegan Hynes, Marcus Hynes, Bryson Istre, Makaila Istre, and Ethan Istre; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mena, Arkansas, at 2:00 PM with President Tom McClanahan officiating. A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1:00 - 2:00 PM in Mena, Arkansas. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Joe Henry Manning

Mr. Joe Henry Manning, age 90, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Monday, February 14, 2022, at home surrounded by family Joe was born March 28, 1931, in Alf, Montgomery County, Arkansas, to the late Henry Arthur and Jessie Lorene (Hughes) Manning.

His parents moved the family to Hico, Louisiana, when he was about 8-9 years old to give the children better educational opportunities.

Joe graduated in May 1951 from Hico High School in Hico, Louisiana. He served in the United States Air Force from 1951-1955 in Amarillo, Texas. Joe went to college on a GI bill at Louisiana Tech in Ruston, Louisiana, from 1955-1959 attain-

ing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management. He began his career with the City of Shreveport, Louisiana, as an accountant from 1959-1961. Once he moved to New Mexico, he worked for ACF Industries, Inc. contracted to US Atomic Energy Commission from 19611967 as an accountant, he worked as an accountant for General Electric for 32 years where he received various awards and recognitions.

After spending 32 years in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Joe retired to Arkansas in 1996 to raise Red Angus cattle on his farm once belonging to the Ode Maddox family at Pine Ridge, Arkansas. He was united in marriage to Shirley Ann Shewmake in August 2000 at Pecos, New Mexico, in a Native American ceremony. Joe and Shirley shared a love of Native American culture, family genealogy, and traveling the back roads.

Joe was of the Baptist faith and a Mason. He had many things which brought him great joy, especially trout fishing trips to Colorado with friends. Another joy for Joe was his love of working with wood and he built many pieces of furniture for family and friends. He had the ability to build anything from wood, all he needed was an idea. When building the house in Pine Ridge he and his brother-in-law used 10 varieties of wood Joe had been collecting for many years. Joe identified and collected leaves and bark from all the native trees in Montgomery County for a display at the Museum in Mt. Ida, Arkansas. He worked for countless hours repairing and restoring the Old Norman High School and the Sulphur Springs Baptist Church.

He was particularly proud of help-

Obituaries 7 ing to add a bathroom and sewer to the church. He also built the entrance gateway and fence around the Sulphur Springs Cemetery and has been a caretaker of the cemetery since retiring. As a younger man he raised and showed prize winning Weimaraner dogs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Newt Calvin Manning and Marion William “Bill” Manning, sisters Doris Mildred Osbon, Hazel Irene Napper and Margie Faye Cooper.

Survivors include his wife Shirley Ann Manning; brother Franklin D. Manning; sisters Dollie Bea Stratton and Rosa Lee Gilligan; stepson Arvis “Trey” Cannon (Gayle); stepdaughter Angela Smith (Steven); grandchildren Andrew Long (Casey), Arvis “Trace” Cannon, Andrea Michele (Long) Perkins (Kenny), Sage Cannon and Lauren Cannon; great-grandchildren Cayden Perkins, AvaGrace Long, Eros Cannon, and AnaBelle Long; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Elite Hospice for their care, especially Keith, Janet, and Vicky.

Joe has been sent for cremation under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, February 18, 2022, at 2:00 PM in the Bowser Chapel with Bobby Rosson and Raymond Dees officiating. The family will hold a private burial at the Sulphur Springs Cemetery at a later date.

There is no death, only a change of worlds. ~ Chief Seattle

8 Obituaries Ruth M. Bailey Shultz

Ruth M. Bailey Shultz, age 89, passed away in Mena, Arkansas, on Monday, February 14, 2022. She was born September 10, 1932, in Richland, Iowa, to the late Laurence and Mildred McClure Bailey.

Mrs. Shultz was a homemaker by profession, and enjoyed quilting, playing bridge and bingo. She was a fan of sports, but she thoroughly enjoyed football. She loved to watch the Iowa Hawkeyes and any of the Mena Bearcat sports or events.

Mrs. Shultz is preceded in death by her parents, Laurence and Mildred McClure Bailey, her loving husband, Dr. Ted Shultz, and by her granddaughter, Bree Anne Purvis.

She is survived by her sons, Gary Shultz and wife Susan, Mike Shultz and wife Judy, and Keith Shultz and wife Miranda; daughter, Karen Purvis and husband Rod; grandchildren, Gary Lee and wife Kristen Shultz, Melissa and husband Paul Egli, Morgan and husband Andy Mckissack, Joshua and wife Joanna Shultz, Benjamin and wife Amanda Shultz, Connor Purvis and wife

February 23, 2022 Katy, and Rodney “Braden” Purvis and fiancée Emiley; great-grandchildren, Hayden, Violet, Hunter, Bailey, Taylor, Rylie, Andrew, Pierce, Avonlea, and Riley; sister, Grace Jeanne Leathers; and her nephews and nieces, Steve, Scott, Stacy, and Shayne.

Services for Mrs. Shultz will be held Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Grace Bible Church in Mena, Arkansas. Dr. Lamar Austin will be officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Richland Friends Cemetery in Richland, Iowa. Visitation will be Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. at the Grace Bible Church in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers are Connor Purvis, Braden Purvis, Ben Shultz, Andrew Shultz, Pierce Shultz, and Leon Stephans Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

partment. She was passionate about supporting cancer research. Carolyn enjoyed hosting family gatherings, cooking her fried turkey and dressing that everyone loved to eat. She cherished any time that she could spend with her family, especially her grandchildren. She liked to read fantasy books and absolutely loved Elvis and Star Trek. Carolyn was a loving wife, 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 one sister, Nina Perew Carolyn is survived by her husband of 52 years, L.J. Dugan of Mena; two sons, Randall Dugan of Mena, and Kendall Dugan of Pocola, Oklahoma; one brother, Charles Wayne Singleton of Mena; three grandchildren, Rebecca and Seth Roberts of Nashville, Arkansas, and Bryson Dugan of Pocola, Oklahoma; one great-grandchild, Isabella Carolyn Roberts of Nashville, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews and a host Ann of other relatives and friends.

Dugan A memorial service will be held Carolyn Ann at a later date. Cremation arrangeDugan, age 69, ments are entrusted to Bowser Famiof Mena, Ar- ly Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. kansas, died Sunday, Feb- Lavada (Cheney) Henry ruary 13, 2022, Baptist Health, ArLavada (Cheney) Henry (94) kansas. She was born on Wednes- passed away in her sleep, Sunday, day, September 17, 1952, to Louis February 20, 2022, at the Twin Rivand Celeste Whilhite Singleton in ers Nursing Home in Arkadelphia, Oden, Arkansas.

AR. Lavada was born September 23, Carolyn was outspoken and very 1927, in Hoxie, Arkansas, to Henry firm in her beliefs, but she was James Cheney and Emma Jane Grifkind-hearted and caring to every- fith. one she met. She was very proud She is preceded in death by both of her nursing career and worked of her parents, her husband, Johnie many years for area hospitals, Area William Henry, one son, Tommy Agency on Aging, before retiring Lee Henry, one granddaughter, Tina from the Polk County Health De- Jane Porterfield and two brothers,

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Earl and Earnest Cheney.

She is survived by her daughter Pamela Jane (Sonny) Porterfield, one sister Loretta Williams, and four grandsons, William L. Porterfield, T J and Paul Henry, and Eddie Price; two granddaughters, Jennifer Henry and Tonya Thompson; plus, many special nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

Lavada, better known as “Aunt Sis,” was a homemaker and farmer/ gardener, who raised chickens and cattle in Arkansas. She loved and enjoyed all of her family and they all loved her. She shared her home with many of her relatives, as well as just about anybody needing a place to stay for a while. She really enjoyed cooking and feeding people whether in times of feast or famine.

Lavada loved to eat chocolate candy and tried to share it with anybody, especially the neighborhood children who just walk right in and made themselves at home. She loved country music and bought about a million records, tapes and CD’s. Well, maybe not a million, but she did log up a million miles riding with her truck-driver husband, coast to coast, just to be with him and keep him company.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, at the Atkinson Funeral Home Chapel located at 126 East 2nd Street, Malvern, Arkansas, 72104. Graveside service and internment will take place at the Mountain View Cemetery in Kingman, Arizona, on Monday, February 28, 2022, at 1:00 p.m.

Online condolences can be made at atkinsonfuneralhome.com

THE POLK COUNTY

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Politics 9

February 23, 2022

End the IRS refund backlog Though the 2021 tax seawill bar the IRS from hiring son is upon us, the Internal additional tax enforcement Revenue Service (IRS) still employees until it clears the has a massive backlog of 8 backlog of tax returns from million unprocessed, indithe past two years. vidual tax returns dating In his now thankfully back to Tax Year 2019, defunct “Build Back BetBruce Westerman which amassed largely ter” plan, President Biden during COVID-19 when pushed to hire 80,000 employees worked from home. I new tax enforcers and proposed have recently heard from several that banks be required to report all constituents who are still waiting transactions over $600 to close the for their returns to be processed, so-called “tax-gap” and help pay for one of whom estimates he is owed his radical tax and spend agenda. $12,000 by the IRS. Another, a mi- Thankfully, neither proposal will nority business owner, has waited come to fruition, but they show two years for his tax return to be where President Biden’s priorities processed. Since his return has not lie. He’d rather take more of your been touched by the IRS, he has money than force the IRS to do the been deemed ineligible for an emer- job it has neglected for years. Amergency loan from the Small Business icans do not want a radical climate Administration. The situation has plan and expansion of the welfare deteriorated to the point that the state paid for by more taxes. They overwhelmed IRS’s Taxpayer Ad- want the money they worked hard vocate Service cannot accept cases for and many desperately need consolely involving amended tax re- sidering today’s high inflation. turns, thereby leaving millions of As the people’s representatives, it Americans stuck in bureaucratic is time for Congress to step in and limbo. ensure that Americans receive the The IRS has had more than services their taxes pay for by insistenough time to process these re- ing the IRS perform its most basic turns and has shown little progress. function and process returns in a Every American knows that filing timely manner. I will always fight his or her taxes late or incorrect- to enact policy that prioritizes and ly leads to fines or worse, but, un- protects the taxpayer, like the IRS til now, there have been no conse- PRIORITIES Act. quences for the IRS holding folk’s To ensure that your 2021 tax rehard-earned money hostage for up turns are processed on time, I ento two years. courage you to submit an electronic To hold the IRS accountable and return to avoid the backlog of paper end this unacceptable backlog, I returns. If my office can ever help introduced the IRS PRIORITIES you with a federal agency, including Act. When my bill becomes law, it the IRS, please contact us at (501) 609-9796.

The No Surprises Act New medical billing law Submitted by the Arkansas Insurance Department LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (January 11, 2022) – As of January 1, 2022, consumers have new billing protections when getting emergency care, non-emergency care from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities, and air ambulance services from out-of-network providers. Through new rules aimed to protect consumers, excessive out-of-pocket costs will be restricted, and emergency services must continue to be covered without any prior authorization, regardless of whether or not a provider or facility is in-network.

Prior to the No Surprises Act, if consumers had health coverage and received care from an out-of-network provider, their health plan usually would not cover the entire out-of-network cost. This may have left them with higher costs than if they had been seen by an in-network provider. This is especially common in emergency situations, where consumers may not be able to choose the provider.

Even if a consumer goes to an in-network hospital, they may receive care from outof-network providers at that facility.

In many cases, the out-of-network provider could bill consumers for the difference between the charges the provider billed and the amount paid by the consumer’s health plan. This is known as “balance billing.” An unexpected balance bill is called a “surprise bill.”

“The No Surprises Act is an important consumer protection tool that will help to prevent unexpected medical bills that may otherwise be financially devastating for Arkansas families,” said Arkansas Insurance Commissioner Alan McClain.

“Arkansans should be able to focus on recovery after a medical emergency, not worry about paying a surprise bill.”

Commissioner McClain encourages Arkansans to learn about the new consumer protection measure.

What protections are in place?

The No Surprises Act, protects you from: • Surprise bills for covered emergency out-of-network services, including air ambulance services (but not ground ambulance services), and • Surprise bills for covered non-emergency services at an in-network facility.

The law applies to health insurance plans starting in 2022. It applies to the self-insured health plans that employers offer as well as plans from health insurance companies.

• A facility (such as a hospital or freestanding emergency room [ER]) or a provider may not bill you more than your in-network coinsurance, copays, or deductibles for emergency services, even if the facility or provider is out-of-network.

• If your health plan requires you to pay copays, coinsurance, and/or deductibles for in-network care, you are responsible for those.

• The new law also protects you when you receive non-emergency services from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities. An out-of-network provider may not bill you more than your in-network copays, coinsurance, or deductibles for covered services performed at an in-network facility.

You can never be asked to waive your protections and agree to pay more for out-of-network care at an in-network facility for care related to emergency medicine, anesthesiology, pathology, radiology, or neonatology—or for services provided by assistant surgeons, hospitalists, and intensivists, or for diagnostic services including radiology and lab services.

You can agree in advance to be treated by an out-of-network provider in some situations, such as when you choose an out-of-network surgeon knowing the

See MEDICAL continued on page 27

10 News

February 23, 2022

US Forest Service offers youth summer job

By Trey Youngdahl

The U.S. National Forest Service Mena-Oden Ranger District is offering a summer job opportunity.

“The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is a summer youth employment program that engages young people in meaningful work experiences on national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and fish hatcheries while developing an ethic of environmental stewardship and civic responsibility,” the official National Park Service website nps.org states.

“YCC programs are generally 8 to 10 weeks and members are paid the minimum wage for a 40-hour work week. YCC opportunities provide paid daytime work activities with members who commute to the Federal unit daily.”

The program begins June 6 and ends on July 29. Participants will work Monday through Friday, eight hours a day. Compensation for the job will be $15 an hour.

YCC participants will be required to do watershed restoration work, fish-pond sampling, stream monitoring, landline, recreation area, and trail maintenance requiring the use of hand tools, lawnmowers and weedeaters. Additional experience

opportunities may arise. Participants will help as needed.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must be 15 years old by April 1 and not be 19 years old before July 29. You must also be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, be able to obtain parental or legal guardian consent, willing to work outdoors in all types of weather and terrain, and be able to obligate to the program for eight weeks. Participants must provide and wear leather boots, long sleeve shirts, and blue jeans unless otherwise instructed. All other safety equipment will be provided.

To apply, complete the YCC application form at https://www. fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/oppor tunities-for-young-people/ youth-conservation-corps-opportunities/.

Email completed applications to john.c.morgan@usda.gov/.

Applicants may also drop off or mail the completed application to Mena Ranger Station at 1603 Hwy 71 North, Mena, AR 71953 by Mar. 4.

Applicants will be notified by March 22 regarding their selection.

Contact the ranger station for more information at (479) 394-2382 between the hours of 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

OLT spring musical Matilda auditions next week Submitted Auditions will be Thursday, March 3 from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, March 5 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Ouachita Little Theatre, 610 Mena Street. Performances are May 13-15 and 20-22.

“Matilda” Director Jessica Kropp said, “I always encourage someone who is auditioning for a musical to research the musical and listen to the soundtrack. It will help you to know exactly what the directors are looking for in their cast members.”

Kropp described the typical OLT audition process: People will get a page with some lines (called a side) that they can look at for a little while and then read with expression.

One of the choreography directors will teach a short dance routine. Time will be given to practice several times

and then present with four other people together. Please be prepared to sing a song. It is encouraged that children trying out present a song with some sass!

The musical director may ask people to come to the piano and have them match pitches and find out their range.

There is also a form to fill out to get your information. Depending on how many people are there at the same time, it should take about 30 minutes.

Any of those elements could happen in any order. It is important to see each person’s acting, dancing, and singing skills.

If anyone is interested in helping with costumes or stage work, please let OLT know.

If there are more questions, please private message the OLT Facebook page.

Boozman calls for continued access to credit for farmers and ranchers U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) is calling on continued access to credit for agricultural producers.

In a letter sent the week of Feb. 7 to the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Chairman Todd Harper, Boozman and his colleagues questioned language included in the NCUA’s Draft Strategic Plan that could lead to regulatory discrimination against credit unions that lend to farmers, ranchers and agricultural businesses in the name of addressing “climate-related financial risks.”

Boozman, ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry joined this effort led by Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) because regulators should be working to ensure that credit-worthy businesses receive banking services they need rather than abusing financial regulation to further certain environmental and social policies.

“American farmers, ranchers and producers across the country work tirelessly to grow the highest qual-

ity, lowest cost food supply in the world,” the members wrote. “We are concerned that recent actions and statements by the NCUA could lead to the establishment of a regulatory environment that threatens the ability of farmers, ranchers, agri-businesses and rural communities to access credit… Placing increased regulations on those that serve the agricultural industry will threaten to restrict access to credit in rural communities, which could have serious consequences for an industry that is already facing high inflation and increased input costs.”

“NCUA’s commitment to transparency and the opportunity for comment is appreciated. We continue to push for regulatory relief instead of increased regulatory burdens. Arkansas credit unions strive to support their fields of membership, including those in rural communities and the agricultural industry,” said Vicky Salkeld Dahinden, executive director of the Arkansas Credit Union Association.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Hot Springs Boat, RV and Tackle Show Submitted Leading Arkansas show producers Denton & Griffey Attractions is set to produce another successful show with the 36th Annual Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show at the Hot Springs Convention Center and Bank OZK Arena, Feb. 25-27.

The Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show in its 36th year, will feature nearly 200 Boats and RV’s. The Hot Springs Boat & RV Show includes over 100,000 square feet of exhibits featuring the newest in Boats and RV’s, resorts, campgrounds, Boating and RV accessories, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Mobile Aquarium, dock exhibitors and other exhibits related to the Boat and RV industries.

Show producer Ken Griffey said this event is the place to be for all fans of Arkansas’ outdoors.

The Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show will feature the industry’s latest in travel trailers, fifth wheels,

toy haulers, pop-up campers, pontoon boats, bass boats, deck boats, ski boats, duck boats, wakeboard boats, personal watercraft, ATVs and much more. The Show will also feature discount fishing tackle, dock and lift exhibitors along with boating safety and educational information.

Interest in Arkansas’ outdoor spaces have exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, with social distancing no easier to accomplish than in the state’s natural areas and waterways. Griffey said new and veteran outdoors men and women in Arkansas will appreciate the variety of products offered at this weekend’s expo and the deals that will be on offer.

Consumers can also register to win $5,000 in Cash. The Show also offers free, unlimited parking.

Show hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday at the Hot Springs Convention Center. Admission price is $10 for adults, children 12 and under free.

Beware another scam attempt

By Ethan Nahté

Scammers are at it once again, attempting to trick people into purchasing Amazon gift cards as a giveaway to “diligent employees.” The scammer(s) are utilizing the name of a boss or supervisor, emailing employees. It’s what is known as phishing.

In the email, they are asking the employee to discreetly contact them via email only— no phone calls, and not in person. Odds are they probably aren’t even in the country.

The reasoning is once they get off-script in an email exchange, their command of the English language falters mightily.

They ask the employee to purchase a number of Amazon gift cards to “surprise” worthy employees as a bonus. In our case $1,000-$2,000 worth. The scammer urges the employee to get it done quickly, then

scratch the back and take a clear picture of each card, then send it to the “boss.”

To make it seem legitimate, they tell the employee to keep the physical card and receipt for reference then add, “Your reimbursement is assured.”

Of course, anyone doing so will be providing the phisher with the information to use the gift card online and basically steal your money. You having a card and receipt in-hand does you no good because the purchases will have already been made.

They are quite persistent. The best thing is to not open the email. If the email doesn’t have an official photo or signature in the AVI window, it is probably not who you think it is. This particular individual is using Microsoft’s Office Online and emailing from officeonline135198@gmail.com.

Odds are they have several Office accounts.

News 11

Mena Fire Department receives ARFF training

Mena Intermountain Municipal drills.

Airport (MEZ) was the facility for “We are able to regularly familiarize night vision flight training. Simulta- and train ourselves with our equipneously, it provided training opportu- ment, including our ARFF truck,” nities for the Mena Fire Department Ashcraft said. “But having the op(MFD).

The U.S. Air Force sent flight crews from the Little Rock Air Force Base (LRAFB) in two USAF C-130 airplanes to train for takeoff and landing in the dark utilizing night vision goggles the evening of Feb. 15.

O r i g i n a l ly, three planes One of two C-130 Hercules aircraft awaiting takeoff for night vision carrying five training flights by U.S. Air Force crews at the Mena Intermountain (Trey Youngdahl/Pulse) airmen each Municipal Airport. were slated to attend the training. portunity to learn more about what This is one of several times the Air could be standing between us and Force has sent trainees to MEZ for the people we are trying to help in an flight instruction. Mena’s airport is a unfortunate situation where anything convenient facility for the Air Force should happen out there was a privito train at due to their proximity to lege.” the LRAFB and the quality of the Just after dusk, on the eve of the full runways. The groups usually make Snow Moon shining down between several annual visits for training. fast-moving clouds, the C-130s be“In the past, they’ve done tactical gan taking off with a very blustery training where they fly in from all south-southwest wind, making a sides,” Mena Intermountain Munic- wide circle before landing, then takipal Airport Manager Fred Ogden ing off once again. said. “It’s really cool to see.”

Each crew completed the exercise With the plane already on the lot, three times before taking off and this gave an opportunity for MFD to splitting ways close to 8 p.m. One conduct Aircraft Rescue and Fire- crew returned a little over an hour fighting (ARFF) training. Members later. The second crew closer to 100 of the MFD were invited onto the minutes.

C-130 to be given a tour and handsThe moon’s luminosity may have on instruction in preparation for any been a hindrance to night vision, kind of incident that may happen in- but the lack of big city lights over the volving aircraft in Mena.

Ouachita Mountains surely gave the MFD firefighter Keena Ashcraft crews a more desirable environment. spoke about the importance of these

12 Community

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Around Town Ouachita Little Theatre is holding a series of One-Act Plays on March 4, 5, and 6. Auditions will be held for the Readers Theatre version of O. Henry’s short story, “The Ransom of Red Chief.”

Auditions for “Matilda” will be held Thursday, March 3, from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, March 5, from 9 a.m.-noon. Those auditioning should come prepared to sing a song of their choosing for the directors.

Arkansas Tourism Eclipse Event Coordinator, Kim Williams, spoke to a key group of community leaders on February 17 at the UARM Ouachita Center. Williams stressed the importance of community preparation in anticipation of this historic event that will occur on April 8, 2024. A town hall will be scheduled at a later date. More information (Ashley Smith/Pulse) can be found at arkansas.com/eclipse.

Mammogram van offers free screening in Wickes

The UAMS Mobile MammoVan will host a free mammogram screening in Wickes on Tuesday, March 27.

The event is being organized for all area women aged 40 and up that are due for a mammogram.

The van will be set up at Holbert Auditorium located on the Cos-

satot River High School campus in Wickes. The screenings will be offered for free for those with and without insurance.

Mammograms will be available by appointment only. Call 1-800259-8794 to set an appointment or for more information.

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. We kindly ask that non-vaccinated individuals wear masks.

The Polk County Health Department has new phone numbers: 479-394-1597 and 479-3941599.

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

The Ouachita Strings and Friends present “A Celtic Celebration,” at the Ouachita Little Theatre, March 17 and March 19, 7:30 p.m.

Revival! Please join us for nightly services at Living Word Pentecostal with Brother Caleb Sherrill in Hatfield, Monday-Saturday at 7 p.m., Sundays at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

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

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.

The Ouachita Collaborative Cultivators (OCC) gathered for a peaceful protest Feb 7 in front of the Polk County Court House, raising awareness and calling for the release of Leonard Peltier. Peltier, an Ojibwa Native American, was convicted in 1977 for aiding and abetting murder, but is believed by the OCC to be innocent, causing them to call for action.

(Photo courtesy of OCC)

Mena Polk County Senior Center dining room is now open. Doors open at 8 am for activities or just to visit with friends. Dine-in lunch is served from 11:45 a.m.-noon. OR you can get a grab and go brought to your car from 11:00-11:30 a.m. Please call ahead at 394-5459. 60 and up suggested donation $3 per meal.

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.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes will remain open for drive-thru meals only until Feb. 28. We hope to reopen on March 1. Home deliveries are always available. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call 870-385-2373.

Van-Cove Alumni quarterly meeting postponed due to no immediate business on the agenda, and the prevalence of COVID/flu in the community.

The Van- Cove alumni and supporters quarterly business meeting, that was previously scheduled for January 20, will be postponed until February 17.

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, 4-6 p.m., located at Fair Grounds Road.

For more information, call 479-437-4018.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call 479-243-0297.

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

Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room. Starting at 7 p.m.-10 p.m.

Come “Pick-N-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome. Starts Feb. 22, 2022.

It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event!

To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

By Richie Lawry The road stretched out ahead as I headed south toward Louisiana. Paul Simon’s voice filled the car as the scenery flew by my window. “Come on, take me to the Mardi Gras, where the people sing and play. Where the dancing is elite, and there’s music in the street both night and day.” As the song nears the end, the legendary Onward Brass Band of New Orleans takes over, and I can almost feel the streets of New Orleans. I was heading south to visit family and experience a Mardi Gras parade.

People who live outside Louisiana and have never experienced Mardi Gras primarily perceive it as a drunken holiday filled with debauchery. But contrary to public perception, Mardi Gras is primarily a family, kid-friendly celebration.

Mardi Gras New Orleans advises, “The only area that we don’t recommend taking kids during Mardi Gras is the French Quarter.” Almost all of the parades are family-friendly. Families set up along the parade routes to picnic, play games, and watch the parades pass. Throws often include toys, stuffed animals, beads, and more that kids have the opportunity to catch.

I wasn’t going all the way to New Orleans. My destination was Shreveport.

Our group from Arkansas and Missouri met our family from Louisiana at the Krewe of Centaur parade in Shreveport.

My son-in-law’s family owns a building on Barksdale Highway along the parade route, so we had an excellent place to park, tailgate, and watch the parade. It was a fantastic location to see the family-friendly parade.

Many floats passed by, with participants throwing gifts out into the crowd.

Over 11,000 people lined the streets waving their hands in the air and yelling, “Throw me something.” Participants on the floats threw traditional Mardi Gras throws such as beads, doubloons, and plastic cups. The Krewe of Centaur is

February 23, 2022

An Arkie’s Faith

Take me to the Mardi Gras

famous for unusual throws. Because it is a family-friendly parade, throws also included candy, frisbees, mini-footballs, toys, superballs, and a wide assortment of stuffed animals. My young nephew caught a toy sword and a hula hoop. My granddaughter caught several toys, including a stuffed animal.

The Krewe of Centaur was organized in 1991. The Krewe focuses on building a better community and pursuing good family fun. The Krewe of Centaur Mardi Gras Parade has grown over the years to become one of the largest parades in the Ark-La-Tex. Since the first parade over 30 years ago, the Krewe of Centaur parade has continued to be a family parade sticking to its original mission, a family-friendly Mardi Gras parade for the people of Shreveport.

It is incredible to see how excited people get about the possibility of catching some plastic beads or other trinkets.

Everyone, including me, is swept up in the idea of being the one to get that unique item.

Eve r y w he re you look, there are kids on their parent’s shoulders, giving them a chance to catch beads and toys.

Participants on the floats often single out kids in the crowd to provide them with a special gift. The kids in our group had a great time.

As I put a large bag of “treasures” in the car when the parade was over, I thought about how everyone at the Mardi Gras parade clamored for these plastic items that had little actual value. I thought about how I wished people were that excited about the gift of God’s grace. Romans 3:24 (NIRV) tells us, “The free gift of God’s grace makes us right with him.

Christ Jesus paid the price to set us free.”

The Bible is clear that God’s grace is a gift. Why don’t more people accept the gift? If you were to ask 100 random people, “How do you get to heaven?” you would hear a lot of different answers.

You would hear things like, “Try to be good and do your best,” or “Work hard at being a good moral person,” or “Do more good things in life than you do bad things.” All of these ideas are based

Joke of the Week:

I have a fear of elevators, but I’ve started taking steps to avoid it.

Faith 13 on our abilities and actions. They are not based on the idea of a gift. When people don’t feel the need for the gift, They don’t see any reason to accept the gift of God’s grace. Many religious people fall into this way of thinking. They feel that they can do it themselves and don’t need a gift.

The Bible is very plain in Romans 5:16 (NLT) “And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God, even though we are guilty of many sins.”

The Bible is also clear that our efforts can only lead to condemnation. Isaiah 64:6 (NIV) tells us that, “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.”

We need to understand that we can’t be righteous apart from the gift of God. Not only do we not have the ability to be righteous, but we are also under a heavy penalty. Romans 3:23 (KJV) says, “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” And Romans 6:23 (KJV) adds, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Every person on the earth is under the penalty of death. But thankfully, there is hope because of Jesus Christ. The book of Acts tells the story of the Philippian jailer. The jailer asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And Paul and Silas answered, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” Acts 16:30,31 (NKJV) Gentle Reader, we don’t need the beads and baubles of a Mardi Gras parade, but we all need the gift of grace.

We all need to have the penalty paid for our sins. We need the gift of God, eternal life. Don’t be too proud to accept the gift. Don’t think you are good enough on your own. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8 (NRSV) Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

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

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February 23, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

U.S. Marshal Heck Thomas

By Ray Shelley We left Henry Andrew “Heck” Thomas. He sent his wife and family to Galveston, Texas, to stay with his cousin Jim’s family while interviewing for the U.S. Deputy Marshal’s position in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Thomas was interviewed by marshal John Carroll, who was a big man. He stood just under six-feet tall, a solid 200 pounds, and a no-nonsense leader. Carroll was a Civil War veteran who obtained the rank of colonel in the Confederate Army. He was appointed United States Marshal for the Western Federal Court in 1886 by President Grover Cleveland. Carroll was responsible for activities of the federal court and the deputy marshals, who enforced all federal laws for the Western District of Arkansas.

The Judge for the Western District was Judge Isaac C. Parker. He held the Western District Federal Court bench from 1875–1896. Parker had 21 years of service and adjudicated over 13,000 felony cases: Sentencing 160 people to death, some died in jail, other sentences were commuted to life sentences, 79 finally being hanged.

May 10, 1875, eight days after taking office, Parker opened his first term of court. 18 men were charged with murder, and 15 were convicted. Eight were to die on the gallows on Sept. 3.

However, before the date, one prisoner tried to escape and was killed. One was a youth and sentenced to life in prison.

On September 3, 1875, the remaining six prisoners were hanged all at once on the gallows built to simultaneously hang 12 prisoners. This brought worldwide notoriety to Judge Parker and the Federal Court of Western Arkansas.

During the interview, marshal Carroll told Thomas, “You realize this was not a salaried position; it is a mileage, fee position? You will be paid 6 cents a mile on company business, $2 for every warrant served, 10 cents a mile when

History 15

February 23, 2022

(Part 3)

you return a prisoner to Fort Smith.

Seventy-five cents a day will be paid to feed the prisoner, but you and your posse will provide your meals. Fifty cents for each subpoena served. If the prisoner resists and you have to kill him, all monies up to that point for this prisoner will be forfeited. Also, if you have to kill a prisoner and no one claims the body, burial expense will be your responsibility.”

Carroll told Thomas he would have to ride many miles to meet the $60 expense of a funeral.

Also, Carroll added, “You could be sent to any part of the territory encompassing 75,000 square miles. You sleep on the ground with a rifle across your lap and one eye open, making sure you are not attacked by any prisoners or friends and family of prisoners until you get them safely back to Fort Smith.

Finally, the government will not pay for medical insurance; if you are injured or killed on the job, your burial will be the responsibility of your family.”

Carroll looked at Thomas and asked, “Are you still interested in the job?”

Without hesitation, Thomas said, “Yes.” The marshals were paid $90 a month plus 25-30 % of the deputies pay.

The day following Thomas’s formal appointment, Carroll told Thomas his

first assignment would be to do what he could to stop the robberies that were occurring on the mail run between Fort Smith and Muskogee.

Thomas was teamed up with deputy marshal Orrington “Red” Lucus. Lucus had been a detective in Muncie, Indiana, before coming to Fort Smith in 1888. Lucus was friends with the stage line owners Rist McDonald and Cal Bruce.

The plan was Lucus would drive the stage, and Thomas would ride as a passenger.

They left Fort Smith for Muskogee, expecting trouble on the last leg of that run.

Twelve miles before Muskogee, Thomas spotted a lone cabin down in the valley that he thought would be a good hideout.

When they left Muskogee for Fort Smith, they stopped the stagecoach just short of the cabin. Lucus pretended he had harness trouble, and Thomas walked up to the cabin knocked, received no answer, so he entered. Facing him was a

large man with a pistol in his hand. The rear door opened, and another man holding a rifle came in. He said, “There are only two people on the stage, the driver and this passenger.”

Both men relaxed, and Thomas apologized and told them he thought the cabin was empty. He bid them a good day, then went back to the waiting stagecoach. He told Lucus about the two men and said he thought they were the ones committing the robberies. When they arrived in Fort Smith, they gathered a posse and rode back to the cabin. When they returned, the two suspected outlaws were nowhere to be found. Thomas was right about the two men being outlaws because that incident ended the robberies.

Hello everyone. Are you still with me after a three-part article? Just bear with me; the conclusion of the Heck Thomas story needs a part four. Heck was such a colorful character a short article would be unfair. Thank you for bearing with me. I’ll make the future articles a one-part read, I hope!

394-1938

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Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash

16 Sports

By Trey Youngdahl Last Thursday, the Acorn Tigers and Lady Tigers traveled to the Jack Stephens Center on the University of Arkansas Little Rock campus to compete in the 2022 State Wrestling Tournament. Bella Tedder and Shay Allen competed on Thursday and Zack Cline competed on Friday.

The competition was tough as the girls faced competition in classes 1-6 A. Tedder fought hard and competed well, but went 0-2 for the tournament.

“She may not have won a match but they knew they had wrestled an Acorn Tiger!” Acorn Wrestling Coach Andy Arnold exclaimed.

Allen came into the tournament with an 11-0 record and finished fourth. Allen won her first match by a fall in 9 seconds.

“Shay had not really been challenged as she wrestled this year,” Arnold continued. “So, as the coach, my biggest concern coming into this tournament was how Shay would respond to being challenged.”

Allen’s second opponent challenged her well, but Allen responded and rose to the challenge, coming out on top, winning by

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Tigers wrestle to the top

Shay Allen (No. 2 )of the Acorn Lady Tigers took second place in the 2022 State Wrestling Tournament.

(Submitted photo)

a fall in 2:43.

The third match of the night, which was the semi-finals round, had the No. 4 seeded Allen facing the No. 1 seed D’Mysha James from Sylvan Hills. The match went back and forth. Allen remained focused and on task, unwilling to be defeated. Af-

ter 2:34, Allen pinned her opponent and would move on to the State Championship match.

The championship match had Allen versus Starr Smith from Cabot. This match was a battle for the ages with two pretty evenly matched wrestlers. It was

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a back and forth battle with both girls fighting hard for the championship. This was the longest match that Allen has had to endure all season, and it came after wrestling three others. At a time of 5:48, fatigue and exhaustion got the best of Allen. Smith pinned Allen for the championship.

Allen is a first-year wrestler who accomplished a record of 14-1 and finished second in the state. This is way above and beyond the expectation of a first year wrestler.

“This is a great accomplishment and I could not be more proud of her as a coach. We are already looking forward to next year!”

Cline competed and won his first match. He lost his next two, finishing the tournament with a 1-2 record.

Arnold said, “This has been an amazing season and I appreciate all of your support! I know that this was a new program this year, but you fans showed out and encouraged the team and myself every step of the way. I could not ask for a better fan base. We look forward to continuing this journey next year!”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Flags presented for President’s Day

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

By Ethan Nahté The American Legion placed American flags around the county on President’s Day for their American Legion Flag Program. The American Legion puts the flags out approximately 10 times per year for those who donate to the program, which is a recommended $25 annually.

Bob Lancaster stated that they don’t put flags out in extreme weather. Volunteers begin placing the flags around 6:30 a.m. and commence collecting them around 4:30 p.m. along the five routes, with 14 or 15 volunteers delivering close to 200 flags.

Anyone interested in participating can contact Lancaster at (707) 567-3006

News 17

18 Education

UARM update Childhood Classes and Cosmetology

UA Rich Mountain will be offering Environments for Young Children beginning March 14.

Completion of this seven-week course will provide students with a certificate in Early Childhood Development for careers in daycare or preschool facilities.

Contact Charlotte Wiles at (479) 394-7622 ext. 1450 for more details.

The UA Rich Mountain School of Cosmetology is back open for customer services. Walk-ins are welcome or schedule an appointment between 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. by calling (479) 394-6808.

February 23, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Mena High School students honored at state capitol Submitted by Mark Hobson Mena High School Mena High School junior Raphael Overturf was recognized at the state capitol last Thursday as a 2022 Arkansas Diamond Student. Overturf was one of only 12 students in the state to be recognized. He also sang the “National Anthem” to begin the ceremony.

The award is for alternative education students who show exemplary progress in the alternative education environment.

Tyler Verba and Braden (l-r) Rep. John Maddox, Tyler Verba, Raphael Overturf, Braden Falkner were also awarded Falkner, Mena High School Alternative Education teacher Aaron O’Brien and Mena High School Vice-Principal Amy Montgomery.

Citizenship awards. (submitted photo)

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission Division of Rural Services (AEDC) has awarded grants totaling $502,838.41 to promote wildlife education and improve school conservation programs to 183 schools, school districts, and conservation districts in 65 Arkansas counties. These grants are funded by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) through fines collected from hunting and fishing violations. Only money collected in the county where the violation occurred may be used as grant funds for that county.

"Contrary to what some Arkansans may think, the AGFC never sees a single penny from citations our officers write," AGFC Director Austin Booth said. "Instead, that money is invested in the children of that county to help instill that love of the outdoors that makes Arkansans unique."

All schools in the state are eligible to participate in the program. The

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February 23, 2022

Polk County schools recipient of AEDC awards us a more attractive state for business and

funding has helped schools create and maintain archery, fishing, and competitive shooting sports programs. Schools also have used the money to help improve wildlife education by purchasing educational materials, materials for the creation of indoor and outdoor habitats, lab supplies, and field trips to AGFC nature and education centers. Conservation districts have used the funding to help promote wildlife conservation awareness in the communities by hosting environmental education days and fishing derbies for children of all ages.

“Arkansans are fortunate to live in a state with abundant wildlife and outdoor recreational opportunities,” said Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston. “There is so much we can learn just by getting out and experiencing the wonders found in nature all around us. These grants not only help broaden minds and economic development, but they also provide opportunities for volunteerism and community involvement, all of which make

pleasure.”

Outdoor education plays a vital role in understanding the need for conservation and participation in the outdoors, according to AGFC Chief of Education Tabbi Kinion.

"The AGFC is happy to partner with Rural Services on this program,” Kinion said. “Thousands of Arkansas students will be outdoors or having hands-on experiences in nature centers, learning and perfecting skills. These grants offer the opportunity to learn about wildlife habitat and conservation as part of the Arkansas school experience."

For more information, including a complete list of award recipients and program narratives, visit https://www.arkansasedc.com/Rural-Services/division/ grants/grant-recipients.

Polk County has been awarded seven grants totaling $20,057.11.

• Louise Durham Elementary received $3,000.00 in funding to

•

• • • • •

purchase 450 copies of birds of prey books and birdhouse kits.

Acorn Elementary School received $3,000.00 in funding to purchase materials for project wild, aquatic wild, growing up wild, FINS and a school yard habitat.

Cossatot River High School received $2,986.90 in funding to purchase AYSSP materials.

Vandervoort Elementary School received $2,000.00 in funding to purchase ANASP materials.

Mena Public Schools received $5,926.32 in funding to purchase AYSSP materials.

Mena Middle School received $143.89 in funding to purchase worms and water for FINS. Rich Mountain CD received $3,000.00 in funding to purchase various equipment for outdoor learning to include: compass, magnifier, enviroscape watershed, microscope, sampling trays, sport plates, pondwater tour kits, gps and water cycle model activity set.

20

February 23, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

News 21

February 23, 2022

Political candidates can begin filing this week Airport fuel sales fluctuate By the Pulse Staff

Democratic Party The Democratic Party of Polk County and the Republican Committee of Polk County have announced the filing dates for the upcoming midterm elections. The dates and times are the same for each party, beginning at noon, Feb. 22, and ending at noon, March 1.

Filing times for both parties will be noon to 2 p.m. on Feb. 22 through 25 and on Feb. 28.

The final filing on March 1 will be between 10 a.m. to noon.

Persons wishing to campaign as a Democrat must file at the Polk County Office Complex Building. The Filing fees for the Democratic Party are as follows: o County Judge- $100 o Sheriff- $100 o County Clerk- $75 o Circuit Clerk- $75 o County Assessor- $75 o County Treasurer- $75 o Coroner- $50 o Constable- $50 o Justice of the Peace- $30 o Surveyor- $10 To become a member of the Democratic Party of Polk County is $20.

They meet at Papa’s Mexican Cafe the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Linda G. Johnson at (479) 2347966.

Republican Party

Those wishing to campaign as a Republican must file in the basement of the Polk County Courthouse. The filing fees for the Republican Committee are as follows: o County Judge- $500 o Sheriff- $500 o Constable- $100 o All other offices will cost $250 The cost for someone to register to become a member of the Republican Committee of Polk County is $15.

The Republican Committee meets the third Thursday of each month at the Polk County Library Community Room.

For more information, or to make other arrangements for filing outside of the given hours and dates, contact Kathy Hagler at (479) 216-4642.

An attempt was made to reach other parties in the Polk County area, but met with no success.

By Trey Youngdahl

A report during the February airport commission meeting indicated fuel sales at Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport (MEZ) have been down, but it is expected to be remedied by the U.S. Forest Service.

January saw MEZ fuel sales were down 37% from the previous month.

The January flowage totaled 6040 gallons, whereas December sales totaled 9,586 gallons. The monthly average for January over the last 10 years is 8,316 gallons, typically making it the second lowest selling month of the year.

The lower flowage rate for the month of January is generally attributed to the weather making flight more difficult, leading to less traffic.

MEZ Manager Fred Ogden, however, also attributes the low flowage to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“The lower flowage this January was no doubt made worse by the omicron variant,” Ogden said.

Though the flowage rate has led to a loss in profits for MEZ, February flowage should be bolstered by fuel dispensed by Minutemen Aviation, a U.S. Forest Service helicopter contractor which is at the airport for the yearly prescribed burns.

“I’m told the Forest Service has combined their Mount Ida operation with Mena this year,” Ogden said.

“There will be a bit more helicopter activity this season.”

The uptick in helicopter traffic is hoped to offset the abnormally low flowage rate for the month of January.

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22 News

Arkansas is second in the nation for total pounds of broiler meat produced.

Poultry meat, including chicken and turkey, is the largest agricultural product in Arkansas, in terms of cash receipts, providing almost 40 % of the total. Poultry production accounts for 1 in 4 jobs in Arkansas.

Therefore, commercial and backyard poultry growers must work together to keep the industry healthy and strong. All poultry growers in Arkansas are requested to review biosecurity protocols in light of an avian influenza strain that has been found in birds east of the Mississippi.

Dr. Dustan Clark, Arkansas Extension Poultry Veterinarian, is going to be speaking on the topic of avian influenza and the importance of biosecurity in the backyard poultry flock. If you have small flocks of any type of poultry or just want to learn more about Avian Influenza, please come to the Polk County Exten-

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Avian influenza biosecurity meeting Submitted

THE POLK COUNTY

sion Office at 211 DeQueen Avenue in Mena on Thursday, Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. You can call (479)-394-6018 for more details.

Arkansas poultry growers, both commercial and backyard hobby flocks, are being asked to review appropriate biosecurity protocols in light of an avian influenza strain being found in birds east of the Mississippi.

“Routine surveillance conducted by APHIS Wildlife Services has detected the highly pathogenic avian influenza Eurasian H5N1 in wild birds in New Hampshire, Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland,” said Dustan Clark, extension poultry veterinarian for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

APHIS, or Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Clark said the flu strain was detected in commercial and hobby flocks in these states: • Indiana turkey flock

Virginia backyard flock, mixed species • Kentucky, Fulton County, commercial broilers.

The Fulton County, Kentucky, flock is of concern because of its relative closeness to Arkansas.

“This is serious stuff,” said Vic Ford, head of agriculture and natural resources for the Cooperative Extension Service.

“Fulton County, Kentucky, is too close for comfort. We are looking at this as an opportunity for all our poultry growers to strengthen security around their flocks.”

“It is extremely important that anyone involved with poultry production should review their premise biosecurity procedures and protocols,” Clark said.

This should be done by small backyard hobby flock owners and growers of commercial poultry to protect the health of their birds. Commercial poultry growers should follow company biosecurity guidelines and work closely with their flock supervisors.”

• •

Signs of illness Clark said most poultry growers look at their birds more than once daily and should be able to spot changes in behavior. Some of the first signs of illness include: • A drop or stopping of egg production • Lack of appetite • Sneezing, gasping • Diarrhea • Drop in water consumption • Discharges from the eye and/or nostril • Ruffled feathers, huddling • A bird keeping to itself.

The Rich Mountain Conservation District held their 13th Annual Poultry Registration meeting on Monday, Feb. 7 in the Commercial Building at the Polk County Fairgrounds. We provided a chili supper and a chance for poultry growers to do their registration.

During the meeting poultry growers got to hear about commercial solar from USA Solar Networks and local growers, Matt and Jessi Debnar, who have had solar on their farm for about two years, and they really enjoy it.

Steve Swall from NRCS talked briefly on Conservation Program opportunities through NRCS. This meeting was made possible by our sponsors Diamond Bank, Rich Mountain Electric Co-op, Union Bank, Farm Bureau, Kenny Miller-Shelter Insurance, Farm Credit, Walmart, First Financial Bank, Farmers Co-op, Arvest Bank, Tyson Foods-Grannis and James’ Supersave Foods. We are very thankful to all our sponsors.

Poultry growers remember to get your poultry registration done by March 31.

•

Preventative measures Owners of small poultry clocks should follow these basic measures to help prevent flock infection, including: • Examining new birds closely • Examine birds returning from poultry shows • Clean and disinfect poultry facilities.

• Practice good vermin control to prevent rodents from transmitting diseases.

• • •

Restrict visitors from your flock.

Report anything unusual or “just not right” in your flock to your veterinarian, county extension agent, extension poultry veterinarian, state veterinarian or USDA hotline.

Dustan Clark, DVM, Arkansas Extension Poultry Veterinarian: fdclark@uark.edu, 479-957-4245 Terry Conger, DVM, Poultry Health /Epidemiologist: H.Conger@aphis. usda.gov, 501- 224-9515 John G. Nilz, DVM, Arkansas State Veterinarian. john.nilz@agriculture. arkansas.gov 501- 297-2250

For more information, visit https://bit. ly/UAEX-Avian-Influenza and www. aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/ avian/defend-the-flock-program/dtf-resources/dtf-resources.

Annual poultry registration meeting

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

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 February 14, 2022 Deputies took a report of a stolen vehicle from a walk-in complainant.

Deputies responded to an altercation at a residence on Middle Street in Cove. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

February15, 2022 Deputies took a report of a dead calf on Polk 41 N near Mena from a walk-in complainant.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 35 near Hatfield in reference to a structure fire.

Randell Dildy, 42 of Ashland, Missouri was arrested on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

February 16, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 41 S near Potter in reference to a domestic disturbance.

Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies were dispatched to a report of a wrecked vehicle on Hwy 8 W near Mena leading to Aldeen Quillin being issued a citation for leaving the scene of an accident.

Deputies were dispatched to an address on Simolin Lane near Mena in reference to a structure fire.

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February 23, 2022

February 17, 2022 Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a scam.

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

February 18, 2022 Andrew Tallant, 20 of Wickes was arrested by an officer with the Grannis Police Department on charges of 2nd Degree Domestic Battery, Possession of a Schedule IV or V Controlled Substance, Careless and Prohibited Driving, Disorderly Conduct, 3rd Degree Battery, Aggravated Assault and 1st Degree Criminal Mischief.

Deputies were dispatched to an address on River Lane near Ink in reference to a structure fire.

February 19, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 8 West near Rocky in reference to possible stolen property.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 75 near Acorn in reference to Theft of Property.

February 20, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Rebecca Lane near Acorn in reference to a physical domestic altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 5 vehicle accidents this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 20 Incarcerated Inmates, with 13 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS February 13 A report of disorderly conduct was taken from a walk-in complainant.

February 14 A report of theft and theft by deception was taken from Walmart.

Michael Harper, 43, was charged with Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and served with five warrants after a traffic stop on Hamilton Avenue.

Brittany Mendel, 31, was charged with Disorderly Conduct after a disturbance complaint at Walmart.

February 15 Rodney Morrison, 36, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

A report of criminal mischief was taken at the Northside Laundromat.

A report of violation of a no contact order was taken at an address on Dickson Road.

February 16 A report of theft was taken at a residence on 12th Street.

February 17 A report of disorderly conduct and littering was taken at a law office on Mena Street.

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

A report of criminal trespass and criminal mischief was taken at a residence on Scott Drive.

February 18 Richard Smiley, 63, was charged with Criminal Trespass at Northside Laundromat.

February 19 A report of disorderly conduct was taken at a residence on Mena Street.

Richard Smiley, 63, was charged with theft at James’ Superfood.

Richard Smiley, 63, was charged with Criminal Trespass and Theft of Property at Northside Laundromat.

Donnie Dollarhyde, 48, was charged with Criminal Trespass at Walmart.

On February 19th, Braxton Kyle, 18, was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Alcohol by Minor, and Speeding after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

Four escaped convicts all captured

By Ethan Nahté

All four escaped convicts from the McCurtain County Jail (Idabel, Oklahoma) have now been captured and are back in custody after nearly two weeks, escaping the evening of Feb. 3.

On Tuesday, Feb. 15, officials with the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office said they had Justin Michael Hughes cornered near Idabel. Wednesday, just before 10 a.m., Hughes was captured hiding inside a barn off Old 21 after an attempted burglary. An additional arrest was made in the case after a woman got out of a car with Hughes.

According to the Facebook page for the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office “… three responsibly armed citizens…located him on their property and notified MCSO of the situation.”

Later that evening, Jerome Lynn Rutherford Jr. was taken into custody in Sherman, Texas. The US Marshals Service caught up to Rutherford and he was taken into custody without incident.

At least 12 others were arrested during the manhunt, including a jailer; a construction worker’s assistant, who is the brother of the first convict captured, Kolby Russell Watson; and several others who law enforcement believe aided the escapees in some manner.

24 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas to sponsor 2022 State Spelling Bee Submitted

For the third year, the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas will sponsor the Arkansas State Spelling Bee. The event will be held on Saturday, March 5 at the Arkansas 4-H Center in Little Rock. The Arkansas State Spelling Bee will be open to the public.

Guest restrictions are no longer in place.

Approximately 61,500 students from 393 schools in 56 counties across Arkansas have participated in local and county contests leading up to the March State Spelling Bee contest. One winner from each county will participate in the statewide spelling bee. The Arkansas winner will proceed to The Scripps National Spelling Bee, the nation’s largest and longest-running educational program.

The purpose of the Scripps National Spelling Bee is to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts and develop correct English usage that will help them throughout their lives.

Avery Grayson Williams of Grant County was the winner of the 2021 Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas State Spelling Bee. The Sheridan Middle School student is the son of Nick and Summer Williams.

Learn more about the Arkansas State Spelling Bee and lodging for participants at: www.aecc.com/spellingbee a The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas comprise 17 electric distribution cooperatives; Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), a Little Rock-based cooperative that provides services to the distribution cooperatives; and Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corp. (AECC), a generation and transmission cooperative. The distribution cooperatives provide electricity to approximately 600,000 homes, farms and businesses in Arkansas and surrounding states.

The event will occur at The Vines Center, located at 1 Four-H Way, Little Rock. The event begins at 10:00 a.m. Spellers must arrive between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Spellers arriving after 9:00 a.m. may not be able to participate.

Moving Sale!

Lots of items: Dishes, glassware, bedding, framed pictures, lamps, silverware, furniture, dresser and chest of drawers, books, tablecloths, napkins, treadmill, trunks, and misc.

241 Polk 89 Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce welcomes Smith to staff Submitted

The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce has hired Kayla Smith as the new Administrative Assistant. Smith lives in Vandervoort and “…makes a great addition to the team and already shows great promise,” says Executive Director Melanie Wade.

Smith grew up in southeastern Oklahoma and comes to the Chamber with a bachelor’s degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma in Norman. She is excited to be a part of the Chamber of Commerce and looks forward to “…being a part of an organization that is so involved in the community.”

The Chamber is currently focusing on their annual membership drive and encourages everyone to join in.

“We’ve had several new members join already this year and we look forward to serving each and every member we have,” Wade said. “We are also excited to represent our members at some new upcoming events.”

Smith agreed, saying, “I’m definitely looking forward to those events. I’m excited we are going to be a part of them, and I can’t wait to see how I can contribute to the Mena/Polk County area.”

Multiple events are planned for 2022. Wade encourages everyone to ‘stay tuned’ for several upcoming announcements. Stay up to date on the Chamber of Commerce’s events and activities via their Facebook page: Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce and menapolkchamber. com/.

MPS selects new principal Jimma Holder retiring

Submitted by Mark Hobson Mena School District

At the Mena School Board meeting on Monday, Feb. 14, Mr. Curtis Black was hired as the new principal at Louise Durham Elementary.

Black began his career at Foreman and has been employed at Horatio since 2000.

He is currently the principal at Horatio Elementary School.

Black is a graduate of Henderson State University and earned his master’s degree at Southern Arkansas University.

Black said “I am excited about this new opportunity and am looking forward to working with the students, staff, parents, and the administration in the

Mena School District. As the principal of Louise Durham Elementary, my goal is to be able to make a positive impact on each staff member and every student. I can’t wait to see the great things we can accomplish together to ensure the success of each student!”

Black will replace Mrs. Jimma Holder, who will be retiring at the end of this school year.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

TEA Party hosts town hall

By Trey Youngdahl

We the People TEA Party is hosting a town hall, giving the citizens of Polk County the opportunity to openly speak to political candidates.

We the People TEA Party was founded in 2008-2009 out of the frustrations associated with taxation.

The acronym ‘TEA’ stands for ‘Taxed Enough Already.” This organization is a non-partisan grassroots movement that calls awareness to issues that may challenge what they would consider the security, sovereignty, or domestic tranquility of our city, state, and/or nation.

Every two years, the group puts on an event to focus their efforts on positive political discourse. This year, they have decided to hold a town hall for citizens to meet and speak with political figures on a state and municipal level.

“Our purpose is to bring these candidates to Mena, Arkansas so that the local citizens can get out here to get

News 25

February 23, 2022

eye to eye with these candidates so that they can ask the questions that they want answered,” said TEA Party President Don Cloud Davis. “These candidates are asking for one of the most precious things that we have— and that is our vote. They’re asking us to trust them. We elect someone and trust them to go to Little Rock or D.C. and represent us in the manner in which we thought they would. If they don’t, that’s on us.”

The town hall will be held at the Ouachita Center on the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain Campus on Feb. 26 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. with no cover charge. The event will also live music, as well as an open meet and greet and Q&A with the 20 candidates scheduled to participate.

To get involved with We the People Tea Party, find them on Facebook at We The People Tea Party. You can also attend their open-invitation meetings, which are every fourth Monday of the month at Papa’s Mexican Cafe in Mena.

Hogspore News

Elwin and Barbara Jean name the baby

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson

Elwin and Barbara Jean Mabry had a baby last Wednesday. Barbara Jean handled the childbirth and Mr. Mabry watched whilst he munched on a 5-pound bag of Doritos. Doc Spicer delivered the youngin. Doc said, “I had trouble getting the new deduction out, so I used a tool from my black bag and pulled the bitty feller on out. Elwin asked me what the instrument was. I saw them the next morning. The baby and family were doing fine. They named the newborn, Forceps.”

Hogspore spent Monday pretending to celerbrate President’s Day. Nobody did anything out of the ordinary. They napped or worked on easy-solve crossword puzzles with the answers already filled in, to keep their brains sharp. Mostly, they just pretended they were a real president.

Morton Trubletoof said, “My mother used to say that she was so grateful

for only one of her children to be a fool. I never did understand, cause I was an only child.”

Friday was one of the best-behaved Bring Your Mule to Work Day in two decades, (That’s almost one score).

There weren’t any scoopable incidents on the entire parade route. The Mayor brought his mule, Little Black Book, into his office. LBB was temping so well that the Mayor gave his private secretary the afternoon off.

The problems started when the Mayor began dictating a letter. The hybrid pet climbed onto his Honor’s lap and started taking short-hoof.

There’s a highway leading to Mena, Arkansas with a sign that says, “Last exit before a long 45-mile stretch to Mena, AR.” There outta be a warning at the front of churches, “This is the last exit before marriage.”

Mumford Pickens says, “When men get pregnant now, they’re qualified for a six-week Modernity Leave.”

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

Boozman Continues Commitment to Improving Veteran Benefits

WASHINGTON – The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee unanimously approved landmark legislation championed by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) to help meet the needs of veterans suffering from conditions caused by toxic exposure. This legislation will now go to the full Senate for consideration.

Approximately 3.5 million Post9/11 combat veterans may have experienced some level of exposure to burn pits during their service—many of whom are living with undiagnosed illnesses linked to military toxic exposures—and nearly one-third of those veterans are currently unable to access VA care. Among its many provisions,

the bipartisan Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act would: • Expand the period of health care eligibility for combat veterans who served after September 11, 2001 from five years following discharge to ten years; • Provide a one-year open enrollment period for any Post-9/11 combat veterans who are outside their 10-year window; • Establish an outreach plan to contact veterans who did not enroll during their initial period of enhanced eligibility; • Direct VA to incorporate a clinical screening regarding a veteran’s potential exposures and

symptoms commonly associated with toxic substances; • Mandate toxic exposure related education and training for health care and benefits personnel at VA; and • Strengthen federal research on toxic exposures.

“The Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act is an important step to delivering the specialized care veterans exposed to burn pits deserve. The bipartisan support for this legislation is critical as we continue to build momentum in Congress toward ensuring they have access to the treatment and services they have earned,” Boozman said.

The legislation also requires the VA to conduct a study determining trends in different cancers within the veteran community. This study will build off Boozman’s provision in the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act to examine incidence of breast cancer among active duty servicemembers.

The legislation has the support of the nation’s leading Veterans Service Organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Wounded Warrior Project, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, The American Legion and Military Officers Association of America.

26 Puzzles

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

02.23.22

02.23.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 02.16.22

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hi! My name is Benton and I’m new to the shelter. I’m settling in here but I would really love to have a forever home with some nice people! If you have room in your family for me please come to the shelter and ask for Benton.

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

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

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

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Classifieds 27

February 23, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS - 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. T0427 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. T0223 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries.

(870) 490-1191 T0302 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T0223 Handy-man services! No job too small.

Plumbing and electrical. Call Bill Duff for details (479) 216-5204. T0216

- FOR SALE -

For Sale–A.K.C. English Bulldog puppies. Just in time for Valentine’s Day! Call 870-642-3104 for pricing and details. For pictures, visit: www.arklatexbulldogs.com or facebook: arklatex bulldogs.

TFN

Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System FEBRUARY 11, 2022 TO FEBRUARY 18, 2022 Natalie Davidson & Garrison Tuck of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Feb. 14th Amisha & Tim Mosley of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Feb. 15th Kaylynne & Riley Carter of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Feb. 15th Karlee Morgan of Dierks, Arkansas is the proud parent of a baby boy born Feb. 15th Brice Maxwell & Sylace Vanhoose of Hatfield, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Feb. 15th

MEDICAL continued from page 9

cost will be higher. The provider must provide information in advance about what your share of the costs will be. In doing this, you will be expected to pay the balance bill, as well as your out-ofnetwork coinsurance, deductibles, and copays.

What else should I know?

• Your health plan and the facilities and providers that serve you must send you a notice of your rights under the new law.

• If you have received a surprise bill that you think is not allowed under the new law, you can file an appeal with your insurance company or ask for an external review of the company’s decision. You also can file a complaint with the Arkansas Insurance Department (AID) or the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

• An independent dispute resolution

(IDR) process, or another process your state sets up, is available to settle bills.

Providers and insurance companies can use this process to settle disputes about your bill without putting you in the middle. A similar dispute resolution process is available for individuals who are uninsured, in certain circumstances, such as when the actual charges are much higher than the estimated charges.

• Other protections in the new law require insurance companies to keep their provider directories updated. They also must limit your copays, coinsurance, or deductibles to in-network amounts if you rely on inaccurate information in a provider directory.

For additional information, consumers can call the AID Consumer Services Division toll free at 800-852-5494, or the No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-9853059

- LEGAL NOTICE -

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF POLK COUNTY, ARKANSAS PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Larry Stricklin Sr., Deceased

- EVENTS -

CASE NO. 57PR-22-15

Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room. Starting at 7 p.m.-10 p.m.

Come “Pick-N-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome. Starts Feb. 22, 2022.

T0223

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Name of Decedent: Larry Stricklin Sr. Last Known address: 131 Polk Road 282 Hatfield, AR 71945 Date of death: December 14, 2016

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Get Your News On! WHEN NEWS MATTERS, WE’RE HERE TO KEEP YOU INFORMED. MyP U L S E NEWS.COM

On the 31st day of January 2022, an Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate by Distributee was filed with respect to the estate of Larry Stricklin Sr., deceased, with the Clerk of the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Polk County, Arkansas, under Arkansas Code Annotated § 28-41-101.

The legal description of the real property listed in the affidavit is as follows: THE WEST 396 FEET OF EVEN WIDTH OF THE SOUTH ONE-HALF OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION THIRTY, TOWNSHIP TWO SOUTH, RANGE THIRTY-ONE WEST, POLK COUNTY, ARKANSAS. SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR RIGHT OF WAY PURPOSES THIRTY FEET WIDE OFF THE WEST SIDE OF SAID TRACT, AS SET OUT IN DEED RECORD 143, PAGES 603-604. SUBJECT TO A 20 FOOT ROADWAY EASEMENT ALONG THE SOUTH SIDE OF SAID TRACT, AS SET OUT IN DEED RECORD 36, PAGE 198.

SUBJECT TO ANY PUBLIC UTILITY AND ROADWAY EASEMENTS AS MAY NOW EXIST. LESS AND EXCEPT: THE NORTH 330 FEET OF EVEN WIDTH OF THE WEST 396 FEET OF EVEN WIDTH OF THE SOUTH ONE-HALF OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION THIRTY, TOWNSHIP TWO SOUTH, RANGE THIRTY-ONE WEST, POLK COUNTY, ARKANSAS. SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR RIGHT OF WAY PURPOSES THIRTY FEET WIDE OFF THE WEST SIDE OF SAID TRACT, AS SET OUT IN DEED RECORD 143, PAGES 603-604.

SUBJECT TO ANY PUBLIC UTILITY AND ROADWAY EASEMENTS AS MAY NOT EXIST. All persons having claims against the estate must exhibit them, properly verified, to the distributee or their attorney within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice or they shall be forever barred and precluded from any benefit of the estate.

The name, mailing address, and telephone number of the distributee’s attorney is: Print: Tasha Strickland Address: 803 Charing Cross Cave Springs, AR 72718 Phone Number: (479) 216-1195 This notice first published on the 23rd day of February, 2022.

28 News

February 23, 2022

UARM Announces Addition of New Ag Program

Submitted by UARM

Chancellor Dr. Phillip Wilson has announced that beginning in Fall 2022, the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain will establish a two-year agriculture program offering course work in animal sciences, agriculture business, and a pre-veterinarian track. With that addition will be the opportunity for incoming freshman to be on a traveling livestock judging team that will compete nationally.

Wilson credited the addition of Vice-Chancellor of Finance Kate Miller for fostering the idea. “Kate came to us last fall and hit the ground running, not only in her vice-chancellor role, but in developing this program. She competed in livestock judging throughout high school and in college. It is clearly her passion.

The concept of an agriculture program has been on the table before, but Kate developed the business plan to make it happen.”

Wilson explained that this is another benefit of the college’s expansion with athletics and on-campus housing. “The addition of athletics and housing was a calculated growth strategy that now ultimately funds the ability for us to grow our academic programs; thereby, creating more opportunities for our students and graduates.”

Dr. Krystal Thrailkill, Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs, explained that the program at UARM is pending official approval from the Arkansas Department of Higher Education.

She did add that an agreement has been reached that will allow the Associates of Arts program developed

by UARM to be transferrable to the Bumpers College at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville for students

to earn their bachelor’s degree. Eligible students transferring from UARM to Fayetteville can receive the Arkansas Transfer Achievement Scholarship, which allows them to continue to pay the UARM tuition rate while attending UA Fayetteville.

Livestock judging is the process of evaluating, selecting, placing, and learning the various livestock species.

UARM will have both a freshmen (novice) team and a sophomore (pro) team.

Members of the agri community are very supportive of the new program.

Farm Credit of Western Arkansas Vice-President and Branch Manager Rex Dollar commented, “This is very exciting news, not only for UARM, Mena and Polk County, but also for our region of the state! It’s great to see these additional opportunities for our youth that have an interest in the agricultural sector and the life skills that come as a result of programs like the livestock judging. I could not be more excited about the doors that this can open for those interested in pursuing additional education in the area of agriculture.”

Tony Hooper, Agency Manager at Polk County Farm Bureau, expressed his agency’s support of students pursuing ag degrees, “We here at Polk County Farm Bureau are very excited to find out about the Agriculture programs that will soon be offered at UA Rich Mountain. This will allow many new underclassmen the opportunity to complete their first two years at a much smaller campus, as well as our local students, the ability to live at home until their junior year, while pursuing an ag degree. Locally, Farm Bureau awards five scholarships per year to graduating seniors, from the three school districts here in the

county, but show favoritism towards those that are pursuing an agricultural degree of some sort. Agriculture is Arkansas’ largest industry by far, and Arkansas Farm Bureau is agriculture’s biggest supporter both on the state and national levels. Polk County 4H and FFA programs have long been considered some of the best and most successful in the state and we look forward to the progression of this new program and watching how its livestock judging teams compete on both the state and national levels.”

Hooper continued, “We commend Dr. Wilson, Kate, and all the staff at UA Rich Mountain for bringing this program to our local area and the new students it will bring to Mena.

Becoming a part of the UA System has proven to be a very positive move for our local area and we look forward to what the future holds at UA Rich Mountain.”

Miller is enthusiastic about the start of a judging program. As a Mena High School graduate, she credits her time in local 4-H and FFA with opening doors for scholarship opportunities.

“Livestock judging in 4-H and FFA was the foundation that allowed me to go to Connors State College and then to Oklahoma State University on a livestock judging scholarship.

We will be the only two-year college offering this opportunity in Arkansas, which opens new opportunities for local and in-state students.”

Miller said that the search will soon begin for a full-time livestock program manager that will travel with the teams to competitions nationally.

Student interested in the program should contact Kate Miller at kmiller@uarichmountain.edu or by calling 479.394.7622 ext. 1500.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Arkansas vegetable and fruit producers can apply The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to announce that fruit and vegetable producers may now apply for Good Agricultural Practices/Good Handling Practices (GAP/GHP) certification cost reimbursement through the Arkansas Grown GAP/GHP Certification Cost Share Program. Funding for the program is provided through the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

Applications for reimbursement are for the time period between January 1 and December 1, 2022, and are due to the Department by December 15, 2022. Reimbursement is available for 50% of inspection costs up to $1,000. Applications are available at cognitoforms.com/ArkansasAgriculture1/ArkansasGrownGAPGHPCertificationCostShareApplication/.

The GAP/GHP verification program is a voluntary program offered to the produce industry to verify that fruits and vegetables are produced, packaged, handled, and stored to minimize food safety risks. GAP/ GHP certification allows producers to expand their customer base and ensures consumers are purchasing safe foods.

“Anything we can do to help offset costs for Arkansas producers is a win for agriculture, our state’s largest industry,” says Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the USDA on this program to provide important cost-share assistance to an expanding sector of Arkansas’s agricultural industry,” says Ward.

For questions about the application or the reimbursement process, contact Karen Reynolds at 501-5291630 or karen.reynolds@agriculture. arkansas.gov.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

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30 Sports

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

2022 Hall of Fame announced Mena shoots for victory

Basketball Feb. 22-26 - South Regional Tournament Track Feb. 28 - Mena @ Booneville Soccer Mar. 1 - Mena @ Arkansas High

Baseball/Softball Feb. 28 - Caddo Hills @ Cossatot Soccer Mar. 1- Cossatot @ Hope

Baseball Feb. 25 - Iowa Central Community College Feb. 26 - Southwest Tennessee Community College Feb. 26 - Rend Lake College Softball Feb. 24 - National Park College Track Feb. 26 - Muleriders Relay

The Arkansas High School Coaches Association (AHSCA), the Arkansas Officials Association (AOA), and the Arkansas High School Athletic Administrators Association (AHSAAA) have announced their inductees for the 2022 Hall of Fame.

One inductee is the former Wickes basketball coach Lendall Martin, who served as the superintendent of the Cossatot River School District before his resignation at the end of the 2021 school year.

In a 2014 interview (Pulse, Nov. 12), Mena High School volleyball coach Brad Lyle said, “My high school coach, Lendall Martin, was my inspiration.”

Martin coached his last game as part of the 2004 All-Star Games in the Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville.

The 2022 Hall of Fame Banquet will be held at the Hot Springs Convention Center, Horner Hall, July 15 at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $40. To purchase, contact Nicole@ahsaa.org .

The 2022 inductees: AHSCA Bill Burge, Harrison Jerry Clay, Lake Hamilton HC Wallace, South Side - Bee Branch Lendall Martin, Wickes Rose Cheek Willis, Siloam Springs Ed Johnson, Crossett AOA David Coleman, Forrest City Chuck Givens, Altheimer Bobby G. Pruitt, Beebe Normal Gilchrest, North Little Rock Glen Hoggard, Little Rock Stanley S. Sence, Bentonville AHSAAA Tom Farmer, Bryant Ken Harriman, Huntsville Ricky Keeter, Yellville

in conference

By Pulse Staff The Mena LadyCats defeated the De Queen Lady Leopards 47-38 Saturday in the consolation game of the 7-4A Conference Tournament in Arkadelphia. With the victory, the LadyCats earned the No. 3 seed in the upcoming Class 4A South Regional Tournament in Nashville.

The Mena girls then jumped out to an 8-0 lead and settled for a 25-24 halftime lead. The LadyCats outscored De Queen 16-5 in the third quarter that was capped by a half-court 3-pointer by Madi Lyle at the buzzer to extend the Mena lead to 41-29.

The Lady Leopards scored the first 8 points in the fourth quarter to cut the Mena lead to 41-37. A huge 3-pointer by Emily Leonard stopped the De Queen run and allowed the LadyCats to regain the momentum down the stretch, as the Mena girls prevailed 4738.

Leonard led a balanced Mena scoring attack with 12 points. Emmi Hines scored 9. Lyle pitched in with 8. Brooklyn Pennington added 6.

Belle Lindsey led all scorers for De Queen with 19.

The LadyCats will battle the Star City Lady Bulldogs in the Regional Tournament at Nashville Thursday at 7 p.m. with a berth in the State Tournament at Magnolia on the line.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

February 23, 2022

Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival Expanding Our Horizons

By Steven E. Stillwell

If you haven’t had a chance to listen to our podcast program, now’s the time to visit us. I recently had the chance to interview M.R. James, the founder of “Bowhunter” magazine and we discussed some of the most critical aspects of archery.

This wise old guy is in his 80’s, he’s still tagging trophy Bucks, and he was such an inspiration to visit with privately, that I felt compelled to invite him to be our guest.

Because of the recent ice storm, we had a lot of technical difficulties with the switchboard, more than usual, but our producer Trey Youngdahl did an excellent job fixing, editing and salvaging the most significant parts of this interesting conversation. His work exceeded my expectations!

Without the great staff at the Polk County Pulse, it would have been extremely hard to accomplish some of my goals. Dedicated teamwork is essential to success, and that’s why I’m bragging about my colleagues.

The new Pulse editor, Ethan Nahté, is doing a fantastic job, and it’s nice to have a second set of eyes to catch mistakes and to review your work.

I’ve been using our media platform as a launching pad to expand our horizons. Magazine editors, outdoor television celebrities and others in the sporting community are starting to recognize what we’re doing, and this is no accident. It’s easy to approach, and network with the other media outlets when you have a group of professionals standing behind you. Our Newspaper

might be considered insignificant by some, but remember, great things come in small packages. We’re bigger than you think!

“A m e r i c a n Front i e r s m an Magazine,” a popular publication, with over 8 million happy customers since 1999, recently published one of my articles.

They’ll run another one, later this year.

“Buckmasters” and “Rack” magazine will also be printing some of the deer hunting interviews I’ve recently submitted, including articles on Phillip Pless, now in the New York state record book for a non-typical whitetail buck, and Chris Sykes in Ft. Riley, Kansas, bringing down the U.S. Army base typical mainframe buck.

Both of these brutes were harvested during the archery seasons. The shots

Outdoors 31 exceeded 50 yards, and these feats aren’t commonplace.

So the question remains, why am I networking with all of these individuals from various places? The answer is simple: So we can learn from their experiences, hone our skills here at home, and, most of all, IT’S FUN. I’m lining up some interesting guests for our upcoming podcasts shows. One of these individuals is a U.S. Army veteran named Jack Zimmerman. He recently mailed me an autographed copy of his new book titled, “FIVE MINUTES, 300 SECONDS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE.” On a routine patrol mission, Zimmerman lost both of his legs when he stepped on a landmine. When I’m finished reading this incredible story of faith, courage and overcoming tragedies, I’ll post a review.

He’s also a motivational speaker, a dedicated family man, and he’s doing his best to touch the lives of others by encouraging them.

I speak with lots of folks in our community, too, more than I can count, and I’d like to thank everyone for your kind words, and for following this column.

A couple of weeks ago, a sweet, young lady told me that her grandpa reads the Pulse on a weekly basis, because of the Bushcraft articles. You don’t know how much this means to me.

If you’re interested about learning more, I invite you to join our Facebook page, OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

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February 23, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse