Polk County Pulse July 20, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

July 20, 2022

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New security measures at Polk County schools

INSIDE:

Story and Photos by Trey Youngdahl

988 New Suicide Lifeline

Page 4

Lyle Receives ACTE Award

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Christmas In July Events

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of which were students and 3 of which were teachers or adults.

In light of the recent shooting in Uvalde, Texas, where an 18-year-old gunman opened fire on a classroom

Schools in the Polk County area are approaching the 2022-2023 school year with an emphasis on security.

Extra measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the students and staff who attend.

Only six months into the year of 2022, there have already been 27 school shootings with injuries or deaths, according to National Public Radio. There have been A sign at the Acorn schools notifies visitors to go to the office.

27 people killed, 24

and ended the lives of 19 elementary school students, Polk County schools are becoming more pro-active on school safety and security, as is Gov. Asa Hutchinson and the reinstated Arkansas School Safety Commission, which has been meeting almost weekly since June 14. The ASSC’s initial report is due to the governor August 1.

MSD The Mena School Board has approved bids for a project to replace locks and latches on the doors at Mena Middle School. Two bids were received, and the board approved the lower bid of $25,169 by the Wesche Company of Springdale, Arkansas. The

See Security continued on page 22

High temperatures prompt National Forests officials to remind visitors of wildfire dangers

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - (July 15, 2022) — With extreme temperatures forecasted for Arkansas and Oklahoma, Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests officials are asking visitors to maintain awareness of increased wildfire risks.

During periods of high temperatures, visitors should use alternatives to campfires, even when there are no restrictions.

“If visitors are going to use campfires, they can reduce wildfire dan-

ger by using existing fire rings and ensuring those campfires are completely out,” said Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests Fire and Aviation Staff Officer, Josh Graham. “As the temperatures increase, it is important that the public exercise caution as they enjoy their public lands.”

When traveling through the forests, visitors should never park on dry brush or grass. Heat from the muffler on the bottom of an ATV/

UTV or motor vehicle could start fires. Ensure that there is nothing dragging behind vehicles or trailers that could cause sparks and potentially start a fire.

Robert Murphy, Director of Emergency Services for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division, recommends taking additional precautions when driving or operating machinery.

“It’s important to remain cautious See WILDFIRE continued on page 11

2 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

21st Century Dyslexia Act roundtable discussion

This week (July 15) I had the honor of hosting a roundtable discussion with Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-IN), education experts, and Arkansas educators on our bipartisan, bicameral “21st Century Dyslexia Act,” which would codify a federal definition of dyslexia to give schools, parents, and students the tools they need to identify and manage the learning disability.

In our discussion, we heard from

students and adults about with proper care. their experiences living with Twenty percent of childyslexia before and after dren are dyslexic, but too diagnosis. I was struck by often, dyslexia goes undiagtheir testimonies of feeling nosed, wrongly dismissed as “stupid” and struggling with laziness or low intelligence, low self-esteem as they especially in low-income fought to learn to read Bruce Westerman and minority communiwhen the skill came so ties. With proper accomeasily to their peers. After they were modation, dyslexic students are d i a g n o s e d , empowered to reach their greatest however, the potential, in their academic and prostudents were fessional careers. encouraged The “21st Century Dyslexia Act,” that their dif- implements the groundbreaking reficulty read- search of Doctors Bennet and Sally ing was not Shaywitz at Yale University’s Centheir fault ter for Dyslexia and Creativity, who and could also attended the roundtable disbe managed cussion, to address the chronic un-

derdiagnosis of students and adults with dyslexia.

As a former school board member, the husband of a special education teacher, and co-chair of the Congressional Dyslexia Caucus, I am always looking for ways to implement the science of reading at a young age in schools to best equip all students to not only reach proficiency in reading, but also to excel in all areas of education. Reading is the foundational building block of education, and I am proud to take this important step with my friends in the Senate and across the aisle towards ensuring children are never again dismissed by our education system as they develop these vital skills.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Letters 3

July 20, 2022

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Letter to the Editor: I recently received an email from an old friend. The read was an interesting view of events from his perspective, and the outcome seemed to indicate there was an intentional move afoot to create crisis and chaos. I filtered out names and emotion to only provide the crux of the narrative and it is as follows...If you leave the gate open, the cow will wander off. So, if you intentionally leave the gate open, you wanted the cow to wander off. You cannot blame stupidity or laziness. It was intentional.

If you cut police budgets, you will get more crime on the streets. So, if you intentionally cut the police budgets, you wanted more crime on the streets.

If you cut back the supply of oil, gas prices will go up. So, if you intentionally cut back the supply of oil, you wanted gas prices to go up. If you wanted to push people to electric cars, make gas outrageously expensive. It is interesting to note that our EXPORTS of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel are up 32% from the Gulf Coast in March, April, and May compared to those same months in 2021. This data is from Kpler, a market-intelligence firm, as reported in the Wall Street Journal.

If you print trillions of dollars without increasing the supply of goods, inflation will hit hard. So, if you intentionally print trillions of dollars without more goods, you wanted inflation to hit hard.

If you leave the southern border open you get more drug trafficking and human trafficking. So, if you intentionally leave the southern border open you wanted more human and drug trafficking.

If you shut down 40% of the supply of baby formula in February, you will get a huge shortage. If you know a huge shortage is coming because of the FDA’s actions, and you purposely do nothing to prevent it, month after month, until the crisis hits hard, you intended this crisis.

People who allow or engineer these types of crises are not foolish or misguided, they are headed somewhere I do not want to go. On the other hand, if

these are an unfortunate series of missteps or unintentional blunders then incompetence is the answer.

Either conclusion is unacceptable.

The answer is for each of us to look at the facts that are available and ask the questions that will give us the truth we seek.

For me, I have looked at the facts available and cannot find an answer that falls short of the obvious and that is that there are forces that seem bent on creating problems they alone can solve that never should have been problems to begin with. In the meantime, we all suffer and pay a heavy price for this social engineering.

With respect, Ronald Goss, Retired, Mena

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July 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 in service

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Beginning July 15, some U.S. area codes will need to dial 10-digits (area code + telephone number) for all local calls. This change supports the national launch of the new 988 - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Starting July 16, 2022, this 988 dialing code will be available to everyone across the U.S. To learn more about this change and what area codes are affected, please visit https://www.fcc.gov/suicide-prevention-hotline.

The FCC released a statement that “988” is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect with mental health professionals with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Veterans can press “1” after dialing 988 to connect directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline which serves our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. For texts, Veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.

Too many people experience suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need. There are urgent mental health realities driving the need for crisis 988about every 11 minutes—and for people aged 1034 years, suicide is a leading cause of death.

There is hope. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national network of more than 200 crisis centers that helps thousands of people overcome crisis situations every

day. These centers are supported by local and state sources as well as the Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress. By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect to mental health professionals with the Lifeline network.

To learn more about the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration’s 988 resources and information to help spread the word, visit: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/.

At the moment, the 10-digit dialing report on the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) only states numbers within the 501 area code listed as “1+10 digit permissible at each service provider’s discretion,” for Arkansas. Neither the 479 nor 870 Arkansas area codes show a change from the standard seven digit dialing.

Both the 918 and 539 area codes in Oklahoma do fall under the 10-digit dialing report.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

July 20, 2022

From the

State House of Representatives

contact information: This week we want to remind Call the Update Arkansas hoArkansans who receive Medictline at 1-844-872-2660 aid coverage to make sure their Go online at access.arkansas. contact information is up to date. gov During the COVID-19 panVisit their local DHS county demic, the federal government office to update their informatemporarily stopped some Medtion icaid requirements and conJohn Maddox Be sure to check the mail. ditions. This was done to help Arkansas Medicaid may mail keep people with Medicaid from losing their health coverage during clients a renewal letter asking them to complete paperwork to make sure they the pandemic.

However, Arkansas will soon be re- still qualify for Medicaid.

If clients get renewal forms, they should quired to review Medicaid eligibility for people whose coverage was extended due fill them out and send them to Arkansas to the COVID-19 public health emergen- Medicaid right away to keep their covcy. This means that many Medicaid cli- erage. They can renew quickly online at ents may lose their coverage if they don’t www.access.arkansas.gov. They can also fill out the renewal forms and mail them take simple steps now.

The Department of Human Services back to DHS or drop them off at their lo(DHS) has launched a campaign called cal DHS county office.

If clients have any questions, they can Update Arkansas. The agency is working with community partners, advocates, call 1-855-372-1084 or visit www.access. and clients to make sure eligible Arkan- arkansas.gov.

DHS needs your help in spreading the sans keep getting high quality health care message. This mission is too important coverage.

It’s important for clients to update their to do alone. Your social media circle contact information now to avoid possi- may include people who are Medicaid bly losing coverage. Clients need to up- or ARHome clients or who have kids or date their information on the phone, on- grandkids with ARKids coverage. Please help spread the word regarding the imline, or in-person.

Here’s how clients can update their portance of updating their information.

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 Two interest groups subThe Board must determitted petitions to the Secremine within 30 days of July 8 tary of State seeking to have whether or not the ballot title two proposed constitutional is misleading. If it does not amendments placed on the approve the ballot title the November general election sponsor groups may appeal ballot. to the state Supreme Court, One would legalize marwhich must expedite its deciijuana and the other would Larry Teague sion. remove Pope County as a posHistorically, the state attorsible site for a gambling casino. ney general determined whether or The group seeking to legalize marnot the ballot title was misleading, ijuana turned in more than 190,000 and did so before the sponsor groups signatures. The other group submitbegan collecting signatures. The atted more than 103,000 signatures. torney general could instruct the To qualify for a place on the ballot, sponsor groups to submit a different at least 89,151 signatures of regisballot title that was not misleading. tered voters must accompany the peAct 376 of 2019 changed the law to titions. That represents 10 percent of give the Board of Election Commisthe number of votes cast in the most sioners the power to approve ballot recent election for governor. titles. If the Board rejects a ballot title Also, a required number of signathe sponsor group may not submit a tures must have been gathered in at new one with different language, as least 15 counties. In each of the 15 they could previously when the atcounties the number of signatures torney general approved ballot titles. must exceed 10 percent of the numConsidering the controversial naber of votes cast in that county in the ture of both proposed amendments, most recent election for governor. legal challenges can be expected This provision prevents an interest throughout the process. A group in group from qualifying a ballot meafavor of a Pope County casino has alsure by collecting almost all the reready spent more than $1 million to quired signatures in one or two big develop a resort with gambling near cities.

Russellville.

The deadline was July 8 for submitArkansas voters approved Amendting the petitions and signatures with ment 100 in 2018 to allow four cathe Secretary of State, whose office sinos in Arkansas. Besides the much examines them to make sure they are disputed Pope County location that valid. has yet to open, they are at Oaklawn The interest groups may continue in Hot Springs, at Southland in West collecting signatures for 30 days, to Memphis and at Saracen in Pine further ensure that they have enough Bluff. valid ones, as long as their initial subArkansas voters approved Amendmission contained at least 75 percent ment 98 in 2016 to allow the cultiof the required number. That means vation and dispensing of medical at least 66,864 of the original signamarijuana. Officials in the Secretary tures must be valid in order for the of State’s office who verify signatures interest groups to be able to continue said that no one could remember a collecting additional signatures. sponsor group ever surpassing the Also, the Secretary of State sub190,000 signatures submitted by the mitted the proposed ballot titles and sponsors of the recreational marijuapopular names with the state Board na. of Election Commissioners.

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

Wilma Novella Sullivan Hook

Mrs. Wilma Novella Sullivan (Nichols) Hook, age 97, passed to her new home, July 13, 2022.

The joy of her heart was her family, dear friends, and cooking for us all. Many years of farming taught her independence and love of land. Gardening was her love and she had quite a green thumb for it. Canning many things proudly displaying them by using them in her recipes.

She was a CNA in her late years for Area Agency and loved her little patients as they loved her and worked to make their life easier until the end.

Wilma, Momma, Grandma, Great-Grandma—she had many titles to us all but loved is what we all felt from her. Generosity was in her hands and everything she did until the end. She left a wonderful legacy for us to follow, yet a huge void in our family. We will have learn to live with.

She loved her Lord and was a faithful prayer warrior throughout her life.

She now resides in Heaven, no doubt, cooking up a storm, I’m sure.

Mrs. Hook is survived by her daughter; Sherri Echols and husband Roger; grandson, Jamie Hensley and Justina Buck, Sarah Roy and husband Frank, Rebecca Abbott and husband Frank; great-grandchildren, Seth Hensley, Ryan Hensley, Tylar Roy, Teagan Roy, Tristyn Roy, Jastin Abbott, and Grayson Abbott.

A memorial visitation is planned for Friday, July 22, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Johnnie Bell Neal Manning Keeney

Mrs. Johnnie Bell Neal Manning Keeney, age 59, of Vandervoort, Arkansas, passed away July 11, 2022, at her home, surrounded by family.

She was born March 28, 1963, to John D. Neal and Betty Sue Webb Neal. Mrs. Keeney was a teamster/ operator for the U. S. Pipeline from 2006-2019. She drove a bus for VanCove Public Schools for 15 years. She also worked at Randall’s Grocery, the Lighthouse, Stella’s, Tyson’s and as an aide for Polk County Home Health.

She was well-known around her community for being kind and putting others above herself. She had a beautiful soul. She enjoyed nature, flowers, animals, fishing, and most of all spending time with family. She loved cooking for her whole family, and going to races, cheering on her brothers and nephews.

Johnnie Bell is survived by her husband Daniel Keeney of the home; the father of her children, Bobby Manning; daughters, Loretta Manning, Mary E. Manning Hopper, Connie Jean Manning, Jessica Harwood and husband Tim; grandchildren, Dakota Davis and wife Delta, Hannah Davis and fiance’ Donny, Madison Davis, Raeleigh Hopper and fiance Garett, Alaina Hopper, Jeliza Turner, Jolena Turner, Brayden Smith and fiancé Savannah, Keirsten Smith and fiancé Jarred, Gracie Smith, Bradley Harwood, and Bryson Harwood; great-grandchildren, Ava, Ellie, Jax and Maverick, and 3 on the way; sister, Sadie Nunn and husband Rollie; brothers, Warren Neal, David Neal, Clyde Neal and wife Robbie; special friends, Sharon Hammonds, Gail Barrett Kuykendall and Bernice Randall; a host of nieces, nephews,

family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John D. and Betty Sue Neal; infant sister, Connie Jean Neal; brother, John David Neal; grandparents, George Webb and Lura Cotton Webb; infant niece, Sasha Neal; infant grandchild, Christian Smith.

Funeral service will be Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel, with Reggie Fryar officiating. Interment will follow in the Cecil Chapel Cemetery in Vandervoort, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 13, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel.

Pallbearers will be Jason Randall, TeWayne Watkins, Bruce Cureton, George Manning, Joe Hammonds, Mike Harwood, Rex Johnston, and Bo Hayes. Honorary pallbearers are her grandsons; Dakota, Bryson, Bradley, Brayden, and family friends; Donald Burk and Hank Sandefur.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Jessie Boon Wilson

Jessie Boon Wilson, age 61, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, July 12, 2022, at his home.

He was born December 13, 1960, in Antlers, Oklahoma, to William Gene Wilson and Billie Jane Wilson. He was a long-time resident of Atoka, Oklahoma, before moving to Mena where he has lived for over 20 years. He worked as a roofer and a part-time equipment operator. Jessie Boon Wilson was able to travel a lot during his roofing career and made a lot of friends across the country. He liked to talk on the CB radio and enjoyed his yard and flowers. One of his greatest pleasures was to decorate and cook for Christmas,

as well as the other holidays, for all his family and others to enjoy. Jessie lived out his life the best way that he could.

He was loved by many and will be truly missed.

Jessie is preceded in death by his parents, William Gene and Billie Jane Wilson; sisters, Debbie Wilson and Tammy Williams; brothers-in-law, Chris Smith and Jimmy Williams; nephew, Clint Williams Smith. He is survived by his sisters and their family, Connie Smith of Atoka, Oklahoma, Becky Page and George Page of Mena, Arkansas, Sheila Allen and Darrell Allen of Acorn, Arkansas; all his nieces and nephews, Christy McKee, Kit Smith, George Page, Bryan Page, Wendy Sides, Stephanie Dilbeck, Sam Amiott and Kayala Williams.

Cremation services for Jessie are entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Edward Lee Mash

Edward Lee Mash, age 76, of Cherry Hill, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Bear Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation in De Queen, Arkansas, on Sunday morning, July 10, 2022.

Edward was born Wednesday, August 15, 1945, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Margaret Nell Mash (née Williams) and Archie LaVaughn Mash. The oldest child and only son of Archie and Margaret, Ed enjoyed a childhood of outdoor activities, including hunting and especially fishing, learning some of his best fishing techniques from his mother, an avid catfish angler.

Edward spent his teen years at Mansfield High School, where he graduated in

Mash Obituary Continued on Page 7

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse 1963. Not long after graduation, Edward enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and rose to the rank of Sergeant. His training and duties included helicopter mechanic and postal operator, and he was very proud of his high-security clearance as a postal operator and administrator. While training in Texas, Edward met Diane Bordas, who was also serving on base, and they married on July 21, 1966.

Edward enlisted during a time of war and was sent to Vietnam. He served one full year at the Phu Cat Air Force Base, near the city of Qui Nhon, in South Vietnam. Thankfully, Edward returned from his tour of duty in late 1968 and earned the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Following his return from active duty, Edward was Honorably Discharged and sent to the Air Force Reserves in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Once completed, he and Diane moved to Texas and began a family.

Edward and Diane had three daughters whom they raised in Glenwood, Illinois, a small south suburb of Chicago. There, Edward diligently worked as a bridge and crane operator at Inland Steel, serving thirty full years offloading iron ore from the ships coming into port on Lake Michigan and loading on to railroad cars and ore piles.

In his spare time, Edward enjoyed teaching his girls outdoor living, camping, boating, fishing, football, and baseball, and he coached his daughter’s community softball league team for a season. Edward enjoyed cheering on his Dallas Cowboys and participating in several bowling leagues. Edward liked to unwind by watching the wildlife from the front porch swing and spending time with the family pets, particularly his beloved dogs, Snoopy and Dollie.

After 21 years of marriage, Edward and Diane parted ways, and he met and later married Christine Flens Sypniewski on June 18, 1994. Edward and Christine enjoyed going to social club dances and lo-

July 20, 2022 cal restaurants in the suburban Chicago area. They also made a cross-country trip exploring natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, Yellowstone, and Mount Rushmore. Edward and Christine were happily married until the time of his death.

Edward was preceded in death by his grandparents, Archie Clinton Mash and Stella Stephens Mash, his parents, Margaret Nell Mash and Archie LaVaughn Mash, and his stepson, David Sypniewski.

He leaves to grieve his passing, his wife, Christine Mash, daughter Dawn Cousineau and husband Bryan of Mena, Arkansas, daughter Kathy Mash of Mena, daughter Sheila Schreiber of Portage, Indiana, their mother, Diane Ahlborn of Portage, Indiana, sister Elizabeth “Liz” Ainsworth of Texas, sister Rose Williams and fiancé Steve Jernigan of Texas, Aunt Mary Jo Fralia of Arizona, granddaughters Briana Mash and Faith Schreiber, both of Portage, Indiana, grandson Christian Mash of Mena, granddaughter Arianna Sypniewski of Kansas, nephews Brian (Julie) Ainsworth of Texas and Jesse Vaughn Jr. of Washington, nieces Cherie Ainsworth of Texas and Andrea (Jason) McCauley of Florida, several great-nieces and nephews, and lifelong friend Mike Philpot of Texas.

The family wishes to thank the caring services of Elite Home Healthcare, Dr. Divers, Dr. Ulmer, the staff at Bear Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation, and Dierksen Hospice.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Interment will be at the Cherry Hill Cemetery, with arrangements by the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Joyce June Hunter Tipton

Joyce June Hunter Tipton was born September 16, 1939, the second of five siblings, to Kelsey and Stella Hunter in Vandervoort, Arkansas.

She attended and graduated school at Van-Cove. Joyce was united in marriage to Raymond “Bob” Tipton on May 24, 1958.

They were married nearly 58 years until his death, May 2, 2016.

Joyce held many jobs over the years but among her favorites were working at the Lighthouse Drive-In for the Robinson’s whom she considered “family.” She also worked at the Cove post office as a postal clerk where she enjoyed interacting with people. Sharp as a tack, she graduated at 17 as the Valedictorian of the Van-Cove Class of 1956. If you ever faced off with her in Trivia Crack, Trivial Pursuit or Jeopardy, you quickly learned that you always wanted to be on her team because she rarely missed a question. She remained an avid and dedicated Van-Cove Hornets fan all her days, and you could always find her with her fellow fans and good friends Alice Ricks and Red Dickison, sitting in “their spot” in the Hornet gym. They would give any referee heck if they felt they were treating their Hornets unfairly.

Joyce was also a fan of any sport or activity her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and even her nieces and nephews participated in, and she rarely missed an event and enjoyed cheering them on from the sidelines. She was a gifted athlete herself, participating in basketball as a teen, softball as an adult and bowling in leagues most of her adult life. She loved the Hogs and watched the Razorbacks anytime they were televised and attended several games over the years.

Joyce rarely met a stranger and enjoyed any activity that involved socializing. She knew just about everyone in the area and their entire family history. She loved giving gifts and if you are local, you have probably received a gift from her for a wedding or a new baby.

The absolute joy of her life was her family. She was the most proud of her children, Kim and Randy, and being Gram to her 3 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. That loved extended to her siblings and her nieces and nephews as well. She traveled on a few vacations in her later years with her family to the Grand Can-

Obituaries 7 yon, the mountains of Colorado and to the beach where she was able to put her feet in the ocean for the first time when she was 78 (She didn’t like it much). If she was with family, she was happy and one of her favorite things was family Sunday dinners.

When she was talking to you, she had a way of making you “know” how important you were to her and how much you were loved. Some of her favorite things were babies (ALL the babies), watching tennis, Elvis, and the color pink.

Joyce was a member of the First Baptist Church of Cove. She professed her faith in Jesus long ago and at the age of 80, despite her lifelong fear of water, followed Him in believer’s baptism at the Cossatot River.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob; her son, Randy; her sisters, Jean Winfield, and Mary Jane Tipton; her brother, Jerry Hunter. She is survived by her daughter, Kim DePriest and Ike; granddaughter, Celeste Ashcraft and Davy; grandson, Ryan Tipton and Amber; grandson, Dwight DePriest and Summer; great-grandchildren, Cassidy, Carmindy, and Camilla Ashcraft, Starla, Skyla and Randalynn Tipton, Sophia and Levi Cummings, Beckett and Memphis DePriest; brother, Jimmy Hunter and wife Shelly; sister-in-law, Barbara Hunter. Special friends, Julie, Rhonda, Lana, Kenzie, Piney, Susan, as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Services for Mrs. Tipton will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 15, 2022, at the First Baptist Church in Cove, Arkansas, with Brother Ron Ladd and Brother Jordan Hunter officiating, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas. There will be a visitation held Thursday, July 14, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel, in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers are Davy Ashcraft, Dwight DePriest, Ryan Tipton, Jeff Hunter, Jordan Hunter, Rodney Hunter. Honorary pallbearers are Donald Burk and Tooter Tucker.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

8 Obituaries Burton A. Trammell

Burton A. Trammell was born July 13th, 1941, in Dallas, TX, and passed away July 11th, 2022, at home in Mena, AR, surrounded by his wife and family, after a long battle with Parkinson’s.

As a young boy he moved with his family from Dallas, Texas, to San Francisco, California, where he grew up.

Burt was a crop dusting pilot in the Central San Joaquin Valley, California, by profession and loved to fly.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Norma Trammell; one daughter, Rene Pace and husband James of Mena, Arkansas; two sons, Daniel Trammell and wife Angela of Mena, Arkansas, Peter Trammell and wife Trish of Caldwell, Idaho; one daughter in law Chrisanne Moody of El Nido, California; one sister-in-Law Betty Smith of Boise, Idaho; 11 grandchildren Stacy Jones and husband Robert of Wickes, Arkansas, Jill Atchley and husband Daniel of Cove, Arkansas, Glen Trammell of Canada, Melissa Sandlin and husband Justin of El Nido, California, Chris Brinlee Jr of Boulder, Colorado, Nick Brinlee and wife Kelly of North Fork, California, Dillan Brinlee of Boulder, Colorado, Michael Trammell of Boise, Idaho, Stevie McCool and husband Rick of Boulder, Colorado, Katie Trammell of Pocatello, Idaho, Ben Brinlee of Boulder, Colorado; 7 great-grandchildren: Michale, Thomas, Megan, Laykin, Dani, Amelia and Reese.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, an infant grandchild and two sons Randal and Chris Sr Brinlee.

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

Jessie Faye Combs

Jessie Faye Combs, age 71, of Hatfield, Arkansas, passed away July 17, 2022, at home surrounded by her children. She was born on May 4, 1951, to the late Jesse and Willie Pruitt. She was proceeded in death by her sisters, Willene Jordan, Bonnie Pruitt, Bessie Shores, Betty Atchley, Lorene Elliott; two brothers, Joe Pruitt and Jack Pruitt. She is survived by her two daughters, Crystal Womack and husband Curtis Womack of Hatfield, Arkansas, and Amy Combs of Hatfield, Arkansas, and one honorary son, Jimmy Pruitt of Hatfield, Arkansas; three grandchildren, Chase Self, Crissie Womack, and Titus Carney (AKA) Little Chief Big Britches; and by a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Faye enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, that she loved so dearly. Her time was spent playing cards, dominos and gambling.

Faye worked many years in the chicken industry. Faye was a member of the Church of Christ at Mountain Fork for many years. Faye enjoyed family get togethers and sharing stories of her and family’s lives. Faye will be missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services for Ms. Combs will be held at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Preacher Troy Denton officiating. Interment will follow at Foster Cemetery in Potter, Arkansas. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 20, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Pallbearers are Henry Wilkinson, Lesley Shores, Mark Shores, Jeffery Shores, George Manning, and Devin Belknap.

Honorary pallbearers are Connor Mink, Dalton Crawford, Christian

Shores, and James Foster.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Theresa Watson Theresa Watson, age 61, died on Friday, July 15, 2022, at Mena Regional Health System in Mena, Arkansas.

Theresa was born on Tuesday, June 20, 1961, to George Trivette Sr. and Kenlinn Trivette in Coldwater, Michigan.

Theresa had the kindest heart and was known for going above and beyond to help anyone in need. To know Theresa was to love her. Her children and grandchildren brought her great enjoyment, and she was so proud to call them hers. Theresa loved to cook for them and made sure they never left her home on an empty stomach. She loved her little chihuahua Benita and traveling back and forth to Michigan to visit family and friends whenever possible. Theresa worked for the Mena Regional Health System as a hospital cook for several years and made many friends while there. She loved listening to old country and anything by Prince. Theresa was saved at the Big Fork Baptist Church on November 6, 1994. She found peace in knowing her eternal home would be with Jesus.

Theresa was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Kenlinn Trivette; her daughter, Nancy Watson; and one brother, Jerry Trivette.

Theresa is survived by her father, George Trivette Sr.; her husband Jake Watson of Mena, Arkansas; one son, Bobby Gene Willis of Dardanelle, Arkansas; one brother, George Trivette Jr. of Mena, Arkansas; one sister, Terrie Atkins of Mena, Arkansas; four

grandchildren, Haliey Needham, Nathaniel Needham, Abbie Martin and Zackary Willis all of Mena, Arkansas; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2022, at 2:00 PM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home.

That though the radiance which was once so bright be now forever taken from my sight.

Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, glory in the flower. We will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind.

~William Wordsworth

July 20, 2022 History 9 Pulse Reflections from History and Faith: America the Beautiful THE POLK COUNTY

By Jeff Olson

Music has been an important part of my life ever since I began playing piano and trumpet (cornet) in grade school. Back then of course I couldn’t anticipate or foresee how music would open up a world to me that otherwise would have turned out to be much smaller and less beautiful. Having since played many songs of patriotism and worship, I’ve never grown tired of most of them, and I continue to enjoy their message and inspiration—year in and year out. The birth of one of my favorites of the hymns occurred 129 years ago this week.

Its author was born in Falmouth, Massachusetts and grew up near the rolling sea. Her graceful poetic style came through in poems such as “The Falmouth Bell:” Never was there lovelier town

Than our Falmouth by the sea.

Tender curves of sky look down On her grace of knoll and lea… .

In 1893, a young professor of English literature from Wellesley College in Massachusetts traveled to Colorado Springs to spend a few weeks teaching

a summer session at Colorado College. On July 22, she and other visiting teachers all loaded onto a wagon for a rough ride up to the top of Pikes Peak (the “supreme day of our Colorado sojourn” as she later expressed it). From the snow-capped summit she “gazed in wordless rapture over the far expanse of mountain ranges and the sealike sweep of plain” before her.

That evening, back in her room, Katherine Lee Bates (1859-1929) scribbled out the beginnings of a poem inspired from the spectacular view atop the mountain. “It was there, as I was looking out over the sea-like expanse of fertile country spreading away so far under the ample skies, that the opening lines of this text formed themselves in my mind.”

Later that same year, Miss Bates traveled to other parts of America, including the World’s Fair in Chicago. There, the magnificent architecture on display inspired her to include the expression “Alabaster Cities” in the last stanza of her poem. As she stated, “It was my desire to compare the unusual beauties of God’s nature with the distinctive spectacles created by man.”

Over the next 20 years, she would make other additions and revisions to the poem. On July 4, 1895, her poem (then titled “America”) was published in The Congregationalist, a popular church magazine. Bates revised her lyrics several times over the years and in 1904 the poem was published in The Boston Evening Transcript. Final additions and revisions to the poem were subsequently made and it was reprinted in 1911 and again published in 1913.

Favorable responses from readers of both publications helped to spur interest in having the poem set to music.

Dozens of tunes were composed and tried with the poem’s text, including

one written by Samuel Augustus Ward (1847-1903), a Newark, New Jersey, church organist, choirmaster and composer.

Ward originally composed the mel-

the end of it nor even the core of its message. It is important to note that each stanza of “America the Beautiful” is rounded off with the earnest prayer that God will always help our land to

ody (also titled “Materna”) to accompany the words of the 16-century hymn “O Mother Dear, Jerusalem.”

The melody was first published with Bates’ poem in 1910 as “America the Beautiful.”

In 1926, the National Federation of Music Clubs sponsored a contest to find new music for Bates’ poem.

This effort failed to find a winner, so Ward’s music continues to this day.

Bates’ love for her country was even further revealed by the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of free permissions for “America the Beautiful” to appear in church hymnals and Sunday School song books of nearly all the denominations; in a large number of regularly published song books, poetry readers, civic readers, patriotic readers; in manuals of hymns and prayers; and anthologies of patriotic prose and poetry; and in countless periodicals.

“America the Beautiful” has been called “an expression of patriotism at its finest.” It conveys an attitude of appreciation and gratitude for the nation’s extraordinary physical beauty and abundance. However, that is not

attain her ultimate destiny. In Bates’ words, “We must match the greatness of our country with the goodness of personal godly living.”

Today the song remains one of America’s favorite patriotic hymns as it describes the majesty and vastness of our beautiful land, expresses our nation’s noble and Godly heritage, and reminds US that the greatness and future of America is still dependent upon our repentance and God’s mercy and blessing—that He may continue to “shed His grace on thee.”

10 Faith

By Richie Lawry

The Lufthansa airplane landed on the wide strip of tarmac, wheels touching down with a slight bounce. Almost 24 hours ago, Daddy and I had climbed into his little Prius and headed for the Dallas-Fort Worth airport.

Now we were finally on the ground in Berlin, Germany.

After getting our luggage, we made our way to the train station inside the airport. My heart sank as I tried to figure out the train system.

I knew I needed to go to Alexanderplatz station, but I couldn’t find it listed on any signs.

The train station had two platforms with trains going in different directions. I tried reading the signs with the help of the translation app on my phone, but I couldn’t figure out which train to get on. There was an automated kiosk to buy tickets, but even with the English option, it wasn’t clear to me.

There was no one there to help, so I decided to leave the train station and return to the airport to find someone who could help. I found three airport employees on a break and asked if anyone spoke English. One man did, and he told me which train to get to Alexanderplatz.

We boarded the train, and around 40 minutes later, we pulled into the Alexanderplatz station. Exiting the train station, we saw our hotel, Park Place Inn, dominating the skyscape. As the tallest building in Berlin, it towers over all the other buildings in the area.

After checking in, we made our way to our room on the 27th floor. We had been traveling for over 24 hours and were exhausted. I left Daddy in the room to rest, but even though I was tired, I felt an adrenaline rush from being in a European city for the first time. I was eager to explore.

I walked out the front of the hotel into Alexanderplatz. In German, Platz refers to a public square. The square was named for the Russian Tsar Alexander I when he visited in 1805. There a swell of humanity spread out in front of me. The people flowed like rivers, never stopping for obstacles but swirling around them.

I was hungry, so the first thing I did was look for something to eat. I saw a small shop and went inside. In a display case, I saw a sign that said, “Rhubarb Streusel.” I stepped up to the counter and pointed at the streusel. Af-

July 20, 2022

An Arkie’s Faith Marienkirche

Three paintings (1761) by Christian Bernhard Rhode in Marienkirche (St. Mary’s) are among the many pieces of art throughout the church. Some pieces date back to the early 15th century. (Photo by Richie Lawry)

ter making my first purchase with my newly acquired euros, I sat on a bench and ate my streusel, savoring every bite.

As I walked around the square taking in the sights, sounds, and smells, I saw an old church that seemed out of place in this area of modern shops. I stopped to take photos of the beautiful building and noticed someone enter through a side door. I was curious to see inside the church, so I gingerly opened the door. There was a small sign beside the door.

Using my translate app, I learned that the sign said, “Welcome, please be quiet and respectful.” I walked through the tiny vestibule into the church and was astonished by the beauty.

A brochure I had picked up on my way inside told me that construction began around 1270 and was completed early in the 14th century. It is one of Berlin’s few remaining buildings that date to the Middle Ages. Qui-

etly slipping into a pew, I thought of all the worshippers who have prayed to God here and the plagues, wars, fires, and political strife they had endured. Lighting a candle, I prayed for peace.

I walked around the church, feeling like I was in a museum. On the walls of the church hang many works of art. My brochure told me that some of the works are original to the church, but many were salvaged from other churches throughout the city that sustained damage during the Second World War. The pipe organ built in the 1720s dominates the rear of the church. It is decorated with bas-reliefs of John the Baptist and personifications of Faith, Hope, and Love.

As I sat in this beautiful old church on my first day in Europe, I thought about all the history this church had witnessed in the last 750 years. I imagined God’s word read from

Joke of the Week:

I get nostalgic when I put my truck in reverse.

It really takes me back.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse the ornate alabaster pulpit. “Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth.” Psalm 96:9 (NKJV) A story I had read a few weeks ago came to my mind. A traveler back in the Middle Ages saw a group of workers. They were chipping away at a pile of rocks. He asked one man what he was doing, and the man said, “I am breaking up rocks.” He then asked a second man what his work was, and the man replied, “I am building a cathedral.” Both men were doing the same job, but one saw his job as just some rock chipping. The other saw the bigger picture and felt he was a part of something important.

Everything we do in life is not always fun or exciting. Sometimes our job is tedious, but it needs to be done. You might have one of those “dirty jobs” Mike Rowe talks about. Maybe you have a job that people don’t think is important, but God needs someone in that role.

In Luke 16:10 (GNT), Jesus says, “Whoever is faithful in small matters will be faithful in large ones; whoever is dishonest in small matters will be dishonest in large ones.”

God cares about minor details of our lives because He knows they become essential details when we handle them correctly. Our small decisions, mindsets, habits, and prayers add up to make a positive life.

Gentle Reader, sometimes what we do might seem equivalent to chipping away at a pile of rocks. But God has asked us to faithfully represent Jesus in everything we do, even the mundane. We are not just his representatives when we work on big projects.

In Colossians 3:14-17 (NLT), Paul wrote, “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

Whatever you do, you are building a cathedral.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

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

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

Drone usage at wildfires As hot, dry weather continues and the number of wildfires increases, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division is requesting the media’s assistance in discouraging the public from flying drones over wildfires.

When drones are present at fires, those fighting the fires are unable to perform detection flights or fly single engine airtankers (SEATs) to drop water in the area.

The Forest Service uses planes of many types and sizes to manage wildland fires. Some are owned by the Forest Service, many are leased or contracted and during times of high fire activity, military aircraft may be activated. When aircraft aren’t being used to support wildland fires, they may be used for other natural resource management activities, such as conducting aerial surveys of wildlife populations and forest health.

Single Engine Airtankers (SEATs) can deliver up to 800 gallons of fire retardant to support firefighters on the ground. These small airplanes can reload and operate in areas where larger airtankers cannot. Aircraft types: Air Tractor AT-802.

Wildfire detection is also performed by various other means. In some areas of the country, satellite imaging and remote cameras are beneficial, but can be impeded by cloudy weather, allowing a wildfire to grow considerably before it can be detected.

Firefighters have also taken to utilizing drones, resulting in increased response time and to obtain a better overview on what may be happening beyond where firefighters may be battling the flames.

If a media team is planning to fly a drone over a wildfire, please alert our dispatch center at 1-800-468-8834.

WILDFIRE continued from page 1 when driving through or working in dry grass,” Murphy said. “Trucks, ATVs, hay balers, and other vehicles are often hazardous in hot, dry conditions.”

In Oklahoma, state officials are concerned with the drying trend and impact it is having on their fire danger, according to Andy James, the fire management chief for the Oklahoma Forestry Services.

“We are prepared for this situation, staffing seven days a week to provide coverage and protection to the state,” he said. “We will continue coordinated response working with all agencies; fire

News 11 departments, Forest Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs and forest industry and landowners.”

Before going hiking or camping, check with the forest, grassland or ranger district for fire restrictions or area closures.

For more information, contact the Ouachita National Forest at 501-3215202 or the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests at 479- 964-7200.

Online, information can also be obtained on the Ouachita National Forest Facebook page at facebook.com/ouachitanf or the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests Facebook page atfacebook. com/ozarkstfrancis/.

12 Christmas in July

July 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Sidewalk Chalk Art Winners!

Congratulations to the winners of our Sidewalk Chalk Art Competition! And, a huge thank you to our Celebrity Judges!

Kids 12-Under 1. Logan Chambers (#2) 2. Brynlee Bahr (#6) 3. Jaslynn Turner (#3) 4. Desirae & Macy Flores (#7) 5. Ashlynn Lingo (#1) 13+ 1. Susan Raby (#1) 2. Lydia & Emma Ferguson (#3) 3. Kristin Ham (#8)

Photos courtesy of Mena A&P and Ethan Nahté/Pulse

Photo courtesy of Mary Pearce

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

Christmas in July 13

14 Community

COVID-19 appears to be on the rise once more. There is no quarantine requirement in effect at this time, according to the Arkansas Department of Health website.

The seven-day metrics shows Polk County has 25 active cases reported, but no hospitalizations or deaths.

Forty-four percent of the county’s residents are vaccinated with at least one dose. The CDC does consider the community transmission as “High.”

As of July 18, Polk County has been given a status of “Medium,” meaning that if you are at high risk for severe illness, you may want to talk to your healthcare provider about what precautions you

need to take; stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines; get tested if you have symptoms.

Adjacent counties—Sevier, Howard, and Montgomery—are also at “Medium” level.

Scott County is considered“High,” meaning that anyone in the county should wear masks in doors in public; stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines; get tested if you have symptoms; and additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness.

Other precautions, such as physical distancing, washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use sanitizer, clean and disinfect, take special care around people at an increased risk, stay home if you are sick.

Dierks Pine Tree Festival

By Patrick Massey

Pulse

July 20, 2022

COVID-19 county check

By Ethan Nahté

THE POLK COUNTY

timber industry.

Events include the Newhope The Dierks Chamber of Commerce Extreme Wrestling group on Friday, is set to present the 49th annual Pine Aug. 5 from 7-10 that evening. That Tree Festival next month. evening will also include Battlefield The event is scheduled for Aug. Laser Tag from 4-8 p.m.

5-6 at the Dierks City Park with On Saturday, Aug. 6, activities a host of activities for the whole continue with a 5K at 7 a.m. and family in celebration of the local parade competitions from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A mechanical bull will be set up from 3-6 p.m. and celebrity donkey races start at eight.

Admission to Friday night’s Newhope Extreme Wrestling is $15 for ringside seats, $5 for 7-12 years of age and $10 for those 13 and up. Admission to Saturday night’s donkey races is $5 for those 7-12 and $10 for everyone 13 and up.

Those aged six and under get in for free.

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

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

Board Camp Baptist Church will distribute food on Thursday, July 21 from 10 a.m. until noon to anyone in need. Board Camp Baptist Church is located at 107 Polk County Rd. 63, at the corner of Highway 8 East and 63, approximately 9 miles east of Mena.

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

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

The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 394-1565 or polkarhousing.com Alcoholics Anonymous meet at The Crossing Church, 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn.

For information call (479) 234-8366 or (479) 2163786.

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.

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.

Vacation Bible School for ages 4 – 12 at the First Christian Church – Mena, 1010 Port Arthur, July 25-29. 6 – 8 p.m. It’s all about Jesus. Come and see, it’ll be fun.

The Mena/Polk County Senior

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

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

Their board meeting will be July 26 at 10 a.m.

Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459.

“Wednesday Night at the Lyric” returns to OLT Wednesday, July 20 at 6:30 PM. The movie being screened is “Silverado”, rated PG 13.

The evening will include a few words from special guest Ruby K Manis, costumer to many of the stars featured in this film, including Keven Costner & Kevin Kline. Admission is free, concession stand will be open.

Nimble Thimbles Quilt Guild will meet on Monday, July 25 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Extension Education Building at 211 Dequeen Street. We will receive the next pattern in our mystery row quilt so bring sewing machines, supplies and fabric to work on your blocks at the meeting.

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.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8 p.m.

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

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

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

It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@ mypulsenews.com or call (479) 243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

Education 15

Acorn student Burdess receives grant Submitted by Brenda S. Miner

President Krystal Thrailkill of the Delta Kappa Gamma Alpha Kappa Chapter, a professional international honor society of key women educators, presented a scholarship for $500 to Acorn High School graduate, Cierra Burdess.

Burdess plans to begin her education degree at UACC Rich Mountain. For more information about DKG, please visit https://www.dkg.org.

Acorn Elementary School 2022 RISE Arkansas Award winner Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Ouachita River School District Acorn Elementary School was recognized as a 2022 RISE Arkansas Award Winner at the 2022 Arkansas Department of Education Summit on July 12, 2022 at the Hot Springs Convention Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

On hand to receive the award included ORSD Superintendent Jerrall Strasner, ORSD Curriculum Director Davelynn Lane and ORSD Dyslexia Interventionist Judy Newcomb. Davelynn Lane served as Acorn Elementary principal during the implementation of RISE Arkansas Initiative.

Lane stated, “This year, 31 schools applied and 10 schools received the award.” Since 2017, 36 schools have received the award.

The Reading Initiative for Student Excellence, RISE Arkansas fosters a culture of reading through a statewide reading campaign and collaborative coordination of partnerships with communities, homes, and schools. This initiative is based on the science of reading, research,

and data collection. Reading is a fundamental skill that impacts all aspects of our lives.

One of the goals of RISE Arkansas is to “sharpen the focus and strengthen instruction” by bringing evidence-based teaching practices to the classroom through training. In an effort to

promote the continued growth of RISE Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Education recognizes schools who have successfully implemented these practices for their students.

Dylan Hunter was the third winner of The Dog Days of Summer Cool Down 2022 giveaway promotion. Hunter signed up at Sassy Squatch and The Mena Party People. Hunter won a 4-pack of tickets to Magic Springs Theme & Water Park.

See the ad below for details for your chance to win.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

16 Sports

July 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Barracudas battle in championship in finals at El Dorado

By Ethan Nahté The Mena Barracudas swim team and coach Wesley Bates traveled to El Dorado, Arkansas, July 16 for the 2022 championship. The competition was the final meet of their season.

They came out somewhat victorious, winning the summer division’s

“Overall Small Team High Points.”

Allison Bates (pictured right) won the “Senior Girls Summer Only Division High Points.”

Senior Girls • 200-yard medley relay – 2, Allison Bates, Ranessa Ricker, Jadelynn Goodner, Ravyn Wilson

• • • • • • • •

Fishing fun at Cossatot River State Park

By Ethan Nahté

right of the page if you need directions. The park interpreter will be Have you never been fishing before, meeting participants at the Cossatot or are you experienced and would Falls’ parking lot. like to sharpen your skills? Join a If you have questions, you can park interpreter on a fishing trip, contact the park at 870-385-2201.

Saturday, July 23, 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 Participants will fish along the p.m.

Cossatot River, learn about river The park is located at 1980 Hwy. ecology, and hopefully land a fish.

278 West in Wickes. Visit arkan- The park will provide fishing poles sasstateparks.com/events/fish- and bait, or you can bring your own. ing-fun-2/68287176/ and click on Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and “Get Directions” near the bottom water.

200 freestyle relay – 4, Allison Bates, Ranessa Ricker, Jadelynn Goodner, Trinity Wilson 500 freestyle – 5, Ranessa Ricker 200 freestyle – 5, Ranessa Ricker 100 backstroke – 1, Allison Bates. 4, Jadelynn Goodner 100 breaststroke – 8, Ranessa Ricker 100 freestyle – 1, Allison Bates.

7, Ranessa Ricker 100 butterfly – 1, Allison Bates 50 freestyle - 1, Allison Bates.

8, Jadelynn Goodner

Senior Boys • 200 medley relay – 3, Ayden Dong, Brandon Dong, Ryan Jiang, Brenden Ricker • 200 freestyle relay – 2, Ayden Dong, Brandon Dong, Ryan Jiang, Brenden Ricker • 500 freestyle – 2, Brenden Ricker • 200 freestyle – 4, Brenden Ricker • 100 breaststroke – 3, Brenden Ricker • 100 freestyle – 7, Brenden Ricker 14-Under Boys • 100 freestyle – 3, Ryan Jiang.

4, Brandon Dong • 50 backstroke – 4, Ryan Jiang.

6, Brandon Dong • 50 breaststroke – 4, Brandon Dong. 5, Ryan Jiang • 50 freestyle – 4, Ryan Jiang.

7, Brandon Dong 12-Under Boys • 50 backstroke – 7, Ayden Dong • 50 freestyle – 5, Ayden Dong 8-Under Boys • 25 backstroke – Gabriel Bond

Night hike to the Rock House Cave at Petit Jean

By Ethan Nahté

Want to try something a little different? How about a night hike to the Rock House Cave atop Petit Jean Mountain?

Join a park interpreter, Friday, July 22, for the night hike, beginning at the Rock House Cave parking area at 8 p.m.

The 45 minute hike is only 1/4mile long and covers uneven terrain. It will take hikers down to the park’s Rock House Cave.

Hikers will view ancient, mys-

terious rock art and imagine what life was like for the American Indians who created it.

Hikers are asked to bring their own flashlights, water, and walking sticks, if needed.

There will be a waning crescent moon that evening. Assuming there is either none or little cloud cover, the moon should be shining somewhat, which may provide hikers an opportunity to observe bats or owls along the hike, not to mention fireflies.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Puzzles 17

July 20, 2022

07.20.22

07.20.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 07.13.22

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

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

IT’S KITTEN PALOOZA!

Pictured are 4 of these sweet babies, which are now old enough to be adopted! The shelter has quite a few right now, who all need good homes! So we are featuring these loving, playful, purrrfectly wonderful kittens! Adopt one... or a couple, so each can have a buddy in their new home!

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

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

T0720

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.

T0727

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.

T0831

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

T0831

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0720

- FOR SALE For Sale - 199 Harley Sportster Low mileage, great shape, lots of Screamin’ Eagle accessories. $2,500 (479) 216-4104. T0720

- FOR RENT 1 BR, 2 BR & 3 BR Houses for rent in Mena. Call (479) 243-5292 or (479) 2164039 T0720

July 20, 2022

Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System JULY 8, 2022 TO JULY 15, 2022 Carli Sneed & Chet Stubbs of Gillham, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born July 14th Ava Fender & Nick Rose of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born July 14th

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LIHEAP application period begins July 25 LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Officials with the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) have announced residents can begin submitting applications Monday, July 25 for help with the costs of summer cooling bills, including those from Entergy Arkansas and other utilities.

LIHEAP is funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and is designed to lower the energy burden for low-income households, who pay a high proportion of household income for home energy costs, by paying benefits for home energy bills.

This assistance will be available until Sept. 30 or funds are completely expended, whichever comes first, officials said. The program will have another application period to assist with winter heating costs beginning

in January.

Eligibility is determined by household size and income. For example, a single individual with a maximum monthly countable income of $1,859 and a family of four with $3,574 would both be eligible.

The program is offered in all 75 counties in the state through community-based organizations, which can be found online at https://www.adeq. state.ar.us/energy/assistance/caad. aspx, along with a complete list of eligibility and required documentation to complete the application.

For additional ways to help with managing your Entergy Arkansas bill, such as Level Billing or Pick Your Date, visit https://www.entergy-arkansas.com/residential/, where energy efficiency tips can also be found.

OUR ADVERTISERS VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK!

LET THEM KNOW

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POLK COUNTY PULSE

THE POLK COUNTY

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July 20, 2022

The following information was received from Polk County law enforcement agencies. The charges against those arrested are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed, or that they have been found innocent, and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG

July 13, 2022 Deputies received a report of stolen property.

Deputies responded to a report of a violation of an order of protection.

July 11, 2022 Deputies took a report of a car tire being cut at a residence on Polk 70 near Acorn. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

July 14, 2022 A report of a vehicle accident near Polk 93 led to the arrest of Jackson Hunter, 19 of Mena on a charge of underage DUI and Careless and Prohibited Driving.

July 12, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a ball field in reference to breaking or entering.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 482 near Vandervoort in reference to being threatened. This led to the arrest of Michael Krulcik, 28 of Cove on Misdemeanor Warrants for Harassing Communications and 2nd Degree Terroristic Threatening and a charge of 1st Degree Terroristic Threatening.

(StatePoint) While it’s always the right time of year to show your support for the U.S. Military, the summer season offers a special opportunity to do so.

The annual USO T-Shirt Campaign, which runs through the end of July, boosts the morale of those in uniform by showing them they’re never forgotten. The campaign also helps connect civilians with the military community and raises critical funds for the USO’s mission.

The USO—a private, non-profit organization—has been a “Force Behind the Forces” for more than 80 years, connecting service members to loved ones back home and providing a broad range of programs and services to keep military families strong from the moment they join, through possible deployments,

July 15, 2022 A traffic stop on Polk 70 near Cherry Hill led to the arrest of Sabrina Stafford on a Misdemeanor Warrant. Additional information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

July 16, 2022 Donavan Hunt, 30 of Mena was arrested on two Body Attachment Warrants.

Lea Fox, 42 of Wickes was arrested on a Felony Probation Violation Warrant and

a charge of Violation of a Court Order.

July 17, 2022 No reports.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked 2 vehicle accidents this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 24 Incarcerated Inmates, with 11 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS July 10 A report of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug Paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana was taken after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

Deanna Ayres, 48, was charged with Theft at Walmart.

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

July 11 Cory Beckwith, 28, was charged with Cruelty to Animals after a call on 10th Street.

Police 19 July 12 A report of a suspicion person was taken at a residence on Janssen Avenue.

A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken at a residence on Eagle Gap Avenue.

A report of breaking or entering and theft was taken at the city pool.

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

July 13 Michael Krulcik, 28, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

July 14 A report of burglary was taken at a residence on 4th Street.

A report of a firearm being found was taken at The Corner store. The firearm has been claimed by the owner.

July 15 A report of harassment was taken from a person at Cruiser’s.

Bobby May, 34, was charged with Possession of Marijuana and served with a warrant after a harassment complaint from someone at Subway.

July 16 A death investigation report was taken at an address on Magnolia Avenue.

How to Show Your Support for the U.S. Military This Summer and as they transition back to their communities. With thousands of U.S. troops currently deployed throughout Eastern Europe in support of NATO allies, the work of the USO is especially valued by the Armed Forces right now.

By donating to the USO and wearing the “Official Uniform of the Military Supporter,” you’ll be in good company. Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan, along with members of the rock band Foreigner, are among the proud USO supporters who’ve recently been spotted sporting this year’s T-shirt.

Other talent showing their support includes Iliza Shlesinger, Scotty McCreery, Chris Jacobs, Corey LaJoie,

Jane Campbell, and several others.

To get involved, visit https://www. uso.org/22shirt to make your donation and receive your shirt -- then share on social media using the hashtag #USOTShirt to let friends and family know about this fun and easy way of uniting our communities around supporting service members and military families.

“Simple gestures can mean a lot,” says USO’s Christopher Plamp, senior vice president for Operations, Programs and Entertainment.

“Wearing the USO T-Shirt expresses your gratitude for the military serving around the world who protect the country and answer the call when emergencies and natural disasters strike.”

Actor Leslie Jordan shows his support for the U.S. Military. ((c) USO Photos)

20 Humor

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

Hogspore News Get your daily sling time

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson National Hammock Day is this Friday. This bunk in the breeze is the universal symbol for relaxation, cept maybe in outter space and on planets with no gravity. The experts say that the Mayans of Central and South America come up with the idea of sleeping by hanging in trees, but probably the earliest one to do it walked between two shady trees and thought, “Ugh?” The word Hammock comes from a Taino culture Arwakan word meaning Fishnet. At first, the Taino would lay on the ground at night, wearing socks to keep their feet warm. Then they hung stockings in the branches and started sleeping in fishnet stockings.

So, get some sling time each day.

And, if you can combine a hammock and two weeks of fishing, you might have the most understanding spouse in the world. I spend a lotta time in my hammock. The wife, Punkin, don’t call me a lay about for nothing.

Old Man Grimely was relating how he checks for mail every day out by the road. “It’s a mile to the mailbox. I take my dog, Corporate Raider, along for the walk. We need the exercise, and we both love the nature, taking in the sites and sniffing the odors in the air. Corporate Raider obediently waits for me along the trail while I do the snooping and snuffling. I leave any junk mail in the box for Sundays and hollerdays, so there’s always something for us to bring home. I let C.R. carry the letters back to the house, but I keep the Harbor Freight catalog for myself. It gives him a chance to feel needed. Then my dog will grow

up right and won’t bite everybody.”

I interrupted cause the paragraph was getting too long, “Why do you go to the mailbox on Sundays and hollerdays too?”

“I know you asked me that, so you could stop me using a long paragraph. I already told you my dog enjoys the daily walks. C.R. doesn’t know what a Sunday or a hollerday is.

He likes delivering the mail and I like going outside every day. Don’t obsess over newspaper design. You shouldn’t worry about that. You’re only a lay about part-time farmer.”

Mumford Pickens says, “Smart fellers from Harvard or Muleberry County Tech School say the name, “woman”, came from womb-man. Finally, we have proof that a man can give birth. It’s just a different form of man, much better form to my eye.

Course, I’m a Man and not a Beta Man-2. Beta also means better. Now we can all relax, cause we agree on something.”

Here’s the married man disclaimer: “Mumford Pickens’ ideas are his own and do not represent the opinions of Clet Litter.”

National News: Washington DC reports a new disturbing syndrome affecting a few junior congressmen.

These politicians achieved political office under 30. They’re smart and focused individuals that evidently rose to position before they had the necessary experience and wisdom that’s required of the job. Discovered

by Psychiatrists, the syndrome is Premature Election. The cure is to not plunge into the arena of Congress until you’re older.

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

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

July 20, 2022

News 21

HSO SNAP success and receives Petco Love grant

Submitted by Cheryl Murphy

On June 21-23, Humane Society of the Ouachitas (HSO) happily hosted its second spay neuter clinic of 2022 to benefit local pets and pet parents. The clinic was provided by Ozark Mountain Mobile Spay Neuter Clinic of Arkansas, which performed spay-neuter surgeries as well as provided low-cost rabies vaccines.

A total of 94 animals received surgeries to help reduce pet overpopulation in Polk County. Pets in need also received free life-saving vaccinations administered during the clinic, thanks to a donation by Petco Love through its “Give Pets Their Best Shot” initiative.

The donated vaccines help prevent parvovirus and distemper in dogs, and panleukopenia in cats.

“Pet owners who cannot afford preventative care, in addition to other costs of caring for pets, can benefit from these low or no-cost vaccinations, which are vital to pet health in our community,” HSO’s volunteer shelter director Tina Ball said. “Much thanks go to HSO’s volunteers, who helped facilitate the three-day clinic, and to Mena Elks Lodge for donating use of their very accommodating facility for this cause.”

Another low-cost spay-neuter clinic is coming Aug. 2-4 and Aug. 23-25 at the Mena Fairgrounds. Cats are $45 and dogs are $70 and up, depending on weight. Rabies vaccines are $5, but their will be free vaccines to those with those being spayed or neutered. Appointments are limited. Call 479-3948001 to make a reservation. Spots fill quickly.

Thanks to Petco Love, funded vaccines will be available as well.

Meanwhile, low-income pet owners can visit HSO’s website www.hsomena. org to apply for the Spay-Neuter Assis-

tance Program (SNAP). Both dogs and cats of low-income pet parents are eligible, as long as grant funding is available.

Vouchers will be issued to qualified pet owners, which can be used for spay-neuter at the clinic, or at a participating local veterinarian, toward the vet’s price for spay-neuter.

Pet owners would be responsible for the balance due to the veterinarian, in that case.

Working together, with the assistance of dedicated veterinarian services, and Petco Love, pet over-population is being reduced and pet health enhanced in Polk County, Arkansas.

National nonprofit Petco Love invests in HSO

Humane Society of the Ouachitas (HSO) in Mena, Arkansas, is set to receive a $10,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love during a special celebration at its Petco Store, located at 3835 Phoenix Ave. in Fort Smith, Arkansas, on Saturday, July 23, in support of HSO’s lifesaving work for animals in Polk County, Arkansas.

The event is also an adoption event, held 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $330 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations—like ours—across North America, with 6.5 million pets adopted and counting.

“Our investment in Humane Society of the Ouachitas is part of more than $15 million in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power

local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We recently celebrated the one-year launch anniversary of Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses pet facial recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets.”

“This grant, focusing on spayneuter of cats in our community, is so very appreciated to help curb pet overpopulation. Rural communities like ours, have fewer resources for fundraising compared to larger communities, so a grant from a large organization, like Petco Love, is a tremendous blessing! Cat pet parents will receive assistance to help get their cat’s much needed surgery, upon

qualifying for a subsidy,” stated HSO’s volunteer secretary Cheryl Murphy.

“Cat owners may visit our website for more details to obtain an application.”

Humane Society of the Ouachitas is a nonprofit organization that has been serving pets in need since 1978.

HSO does not euthanize for space. Its mission is to provide care and shelter for pets in need until a permanent loving home can be found, to provide low-cost spay-neuter and vaccination services, and to prevent cruelty to animals.

Murphy stated, “Last year, HSO helped 761 pets in our community!

Much thanks to our local supporters and grantors like Petco Love, which make all the difference in helping us help the animals!”

For more information about HSO, visit hsomena.org. Learn more about Petco Love at petcolove.org.

22 Education SECURITY continued from page 1 locks at Mena Middle School will now be updated to match the locks at their high school and elementary school buildings. With this update, the keys for the locks will be unduplicatable.

“Those are the original doorknobs in the building. Over time, many of them started to wear out and the locking mechanism started to not work anymore,” Mena School District Superintendent Lee Smith said. “The teachers had no way of actually locking their doors to keep people out. We couldn’t do any repairs or find any replacement equipment, so we just appropriated the funds to do a complete overhaul of all the doorknobs at the middle school.”

Mena schools have also installed complete state-of-the-art camera systems to every campus and two-way radio systems to every bus.

To continue safety efforts, the school board has approved the hiring of an additional school resource officer (SRO) for the upcoming school year.

July 20, 2022 “This will make two full-time SROs in our district. We also have a rotation of off-duty officers that work part-time to fill in at Louise Durham Elementary because it’s so isolated.

We also have the same arrangement for Holly Harshman,” Smith said.

“School resource officers go through special training, so we do like having the officer present, but we’re trying to move towards having full-time student resource officers. The goal is to have an officer on every campus.”

Some of the support staff at the schools are also off-duty deputies. In addition to the SROs, they are armed and monitor the campus to further ensure the safety of the staff and students. Smith is currently in the process of adding more of these officers to their security.

“We are adding additional staff members to the reserve deputy corps,” Smith said. “The reserve officers on campus were added during previous administration. That was the result of the shooting in Florida (Parkland).

It caused our state legislators to take some actions to help schools put these things in place. The state police and the Sheriff ’s Association came up with the idea of having people trained on campus as reserve officers. That model was replicated at schools all across Arkansas. Some schools chose not to do it, but our schools did.”

These preventative measures would not only be in place to protect students in the event of a shooting. In November of 2021, for instance, an anonymous bomb threat was received claiming that there was a device hidden inside one of the cars in the Mena High School parking lot. Both Mena High School and Mena Middle School were locked down as a result of this incident. Though this turned out to be a hoax, it is a grim reminder that even Mena, Arkansas, is not immune to such tragedy. A second threat was called in to part of the UARM campus.

“We were really pleased with how quick our security team was on site and how quick the sheriff ’s office and city police were on site,” Smith said.

“The one misstep in the situation was that students were texting parents when it was happening. We really needed parents to understand why it’s important for law enforcement to be able to communicate without everyone rushing up there to see what was going on. Luckily that didn’t happen, and people stayed away.”

CRSD As mentioned in the July 13 issue of the Polk County Pulse, Cossatot River School District (CRSD) is also taking preventative measures. At a special board meeting that was called on June 28, they approved a partnership with AAMSCO Identification Systems for an upgraded door security system district wide. CRSD has AAMSCO systems at the central office and at Cossatot River High School, but the other campuses are being upgraded to this system. CRSD Superintendent Tyler Broyles spoke about his focus on safety.

“It’s in my nature to be safety-orient-

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse ed,” Broyles said. “Obviously, recent security events in the country heightened my concerns. My general vision of the school for ‘growth,’ coupled with the recent tragic events, and our restructure that’s coming this year also made me more focused on equity.”

In addition to this, all campus main doors will be equipped with an Aiphone. Visitors press a button that activates a video feed for the secretaries, who can buzz the visitors in. Each campus will have at least one additional Aiphone for doors that get a lot of student traffic. Doors that get a lot of staff use will have a badge reader.

Also, doors will be equipped with an alarm that will buzz if propped open past a few minutes, and each campus will have a visitor management system that will require visitors to scan their driver’s license to get a visitor sticker. The driver’s license scan will do a quick background check on them on the spot.

Additionally, there will be a physical door lockdown switch as well as the capability for administration to digitally lockdown the exterior doors.

An additional SRO will also be appointed to the district.

“We will have an SRO at every campus full-time. Since I got here, I’ve wanted to add an SRO at Vandervoort because it’s behind the railroad tracks, it’s isolated, and response time there if there’s a train—or even if there’s not a train—it’s just not a risk I’m willing to take.” Broyles said. “The Umpire campus is in Howard County. We always have an SRO there, but it’s someone different every day. I took a call from their sheriff, and he’s got a proposal to me that I’m going to recommend and approve to have the same SRO at Umpire every day full-time. It is safe to say that we have an SRO full-time at every one of our Polk County campuses and we have a rotating SRO at our Umpire campus that we’re working on making a consistent, same person thing.”

For the CRSD teachers’ ‘Back to

See Security continued on page 23

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July 20, 2022 SECURITY ORSD continued from page 22 Concerns have also caused Ouachita

School Week,’ Broyles arranged for special drills, so his staff is better prepared in the event of a tragedy, as well as adding more off-duty law enforcement in the same manner Mena Public Schools has.

“I set up training with the Polk County Sheriff ’s Department to train our staff on the basics of active shooters and school safety. We do active shooter drills every year to practice them. I’ve also set a meeting with my administration to go over and update our crisis management program,” Broyles said. “I’m working with the sheriff ’s office to add some more reserve deputies so we have some staff members who are armed inside the building in addition to the SROs who have gone through all the training.”

Broyles believes that the measures he’s implemented will make CRSD the safest it can possibly be for the future.

“We make safety a priority. You can’t learn if you’re not safe. No school is going to be one hundred percent protected from vulnerability, but we are going to now, I think, set the gold standard for safety and security of our staff and kids,” Broyles said. “I will say that the door security program that we have with AAMSCO I think is the Coca-Cola brand of school security and we’re going to be cutting-edge with our door security. That, coupled with our SROs, reserve deputies, training and crisis-management updating, I think we’re going to be on the forefront of putting our best foot forward for the safety of our staff and students.”

River School District (ORSD) to inspect their safety measures.

“This month we are having another safety assessment of our current procedures that we do at our schools. It has always been the first priority of our mission of our district—to provide a safe, caring environment where everyone learns and grows in order to be prepared for life,” ORSD Superintendent Jerrall Strasner said. “We feel like if students are not safe, then they will not learn, and they certainly will not grow and won’t be prepared for life. The learning environment is something that we assess annually.”

Currently, ORSD has an SRO on both the Acorn and Oden campuses.

In addition to the officer, they have a number of armed staff members who have been deputized by the sheriff ’s office in like manner with the other schools in the area. Regardless, ORSD is still looking at improving at every possible instance.

“We already have very good safety procedures in our school, but we’re looking into safety doors at the main entrances,” Strasner said. “We have one point of entry at all campuses, which is the main office, but we’re even looking to add additional security to those.

This will be the next step for us.”

The ORSD board will have to approve the addition of the safety measures before any actual moves can be made, but it is likely that the district will be moving in the same direction as other schools in the surrounding counties.

Education 23

Acorn High School teacher Lyle receives ACTE Award Submitted by Tammy L. Young

Mindy Lyle, AHS Family & Consumer Sciences Teacher was recognized and presented with the Arkansas Association for Career & Technical Education 2022 New Teacher of the Year Award at the Arkansas Department of Education Summit held at the Hot Springs Convention Center, July 11-13, 2022.

The Arkansas Association CTE New Teacher of the Year Award recognizes the finest career and technical teachers at the middle/secondary level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students, and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.

Mrs. Lyle teaches courses in the Family & Consumer Sciences CTE Pathway at Acorn High School and also serves as the FCCLA Advisor.

Congratulations, Mrs. Lyle! The ORSD family is so proud of you!

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July 20, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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