Polk County Pulse May 18, 2022

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

May 18, 2022

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Bucks and Lions end postseason with pride

INSIDE:

By Trey Youngdahl

Class Of 2022

Page 14

Police Appreciation Week

Page 15

Taylor Tigers on Saturday, May 14. The Lions wrapped their season with a respectable 18-6 won-loss record.

The University of Arkansas Rich Mountain (UARM) Bucks had an eventful end to their season as well. In their game against South Arkansas Community College, starting on May 14, the game began late due to a previous game going into extra innings. Finally, at 8:30 p.m., play began, but was temporarily called off at the top of the fourth inning due to lightning. The game resumed just before midnight and conBucks coach Lance Spigner (left) receiving his award as the tinued, eventually ending at Region II DII NJCAA coach of the year after adding 38 more wins 1:30 a.m. Sunday morning.

America’s favorite pastime has been put back into its usual hibernation for our local teams 20212022 season.

The Mt. Ida Lions had a somewhat historic season, making it to the state semi-finals. This is the furthest the Lions have ever made it into the playoffs. Their wins in the first round included 13-3 over Hermitage, 12-2 against Mount Vernon - Enola, and beating Hillcrest 9-1.

However, their third game in three days brought their winning season to an end, taking to his stellar 30-year coaching record. an 11-1 loss against the

(Photo courtesy of UARM)

See BUCKS continued on page 26

Former Mena resident charged with rape of a minor

Bald Eagle Release Planned

Page 27

A former Mena, Polk County resident, Richard Ray Bagwell (22), (aka Richard Ray Bagwell, Jr.) has been arrested by the Tulsa Police Department.

Bagwell, who currently resides Tulsa, was arrested May 10, 2022, on charges of rape - second degree, in violation of 21 O.S. 1114 (Eds. Title 21 of O.S. Oklahoma Statute 1114); lewd molestation, in violation of 21 O.S. 1123(A);

and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, in violation of 21 O.S. 856. All three offenses were reported as occurring on Feb. 13, 2022.

Bagwell went before special judge David Guten in Tulsa County District Court on May 12 for a bond hearing (No. CF-2022-1650, filed May 4).

See BAGWELL continued on page 22

2 News

May 18, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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THE POLK COUNTY

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May 18, 2022

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4 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

NALC collects 3 tons of food from Polk County area Saturday, May 14, was the 30th Annual Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. In the area covered by the Mena U.S. Postal Service, 6037 pounds of food was collected. Local food pantry Acts of Love picked up the non-perishables and will keep all food to be distributed locally. a few of the local letter carriers are pictured, along with Acts of Love volunteers. (l-r) Chris Dowdy, Josh Vaughn and Bob Miller

Angela Engel and Terra Turbyfill

Charlie Camp

Acts of Love volunteers Alan Hazen and Doug Perry. Not pictured, Craig Cohen Karen Agee

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

May 18, 2022

From the

State House of Representatives

From patrolling morning rush assist in raising the salaries for hour to responding to a domesstate troopers. tic call late at night, we ask a great In the 2021 Regular Session, we deal from our men and women passed Act 714, which requires a in law enforcement. We cannot city of first-class to establish a city thank them enough for their selfpolice department and provide less service. the department with proper reThe Governor issued a procsources. lamation declaring May 15-May We also addressed the mental John Maddox 21 as National Police Week. health of our officers by passing Sunday, May 15 is designated as Act 747. This bill states law enPeace Officers Memorial Day to honor the forcement agencies must assist a law enservice and sacrifice of law enforcement of- forcement officer involved in a critical incificers killed in the line of duty. The procla- dent in obtaining services that may help the mation directs that the state flag of Arkan- officer recover from psychological effects. sas be flown at half-staff on Sunday as an We passed legislation that was recomexpression of public sorrow. mended by the Governor’s Task Force to There are an estimated 7,000 officers are Advance the State of Law Enforcement in protecting and serving 3 million Arkan- Arkansas. Act 218 limits a law-enforcesans. We recognize that a single week is not ment agency to two part-time officers for a sufficient amount of time to honor their every full-time officer. The task force report continually sacrifices. We hope the legis- noted that the higher ratio of full-time oflation enacted in the most recent session ficers would strengthen in-house training helps to support them and their families and enhance stability. throughout the year.

And we passed legislation making sure In the most recent fiscal session, we K-9 units get the necessary medical serpassed an appropriation providing a one- vices they need if injured in the line of duty time stipend of $5,000 to full-time certified with Act 790 titled Gabo’s Law. city and county law enforcement officers, as We will continue to explore ways to supwell as probation and parole officers. It also port our law enforcement. We encourage provided for a $2,000 one-time stipend for Arkansans to take this week as an opporstate troopers. tunity to say thank you and show your apWe also increased the budget for Arkan- preciation to those who keep your commusas State Police by $7.4 million increase to nities safe.

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 Arkansas is making a mascapacity of 100 Mbps would allow two children to do onsive public investment to bring broadband access to evline schoolwork, to allow another family member to ery corner of the state. stream a show on a platform Last year the state hired a like Netflix and for anothconsultant firm, Broadband Development Group (BDG), er family member to attend to develop a master plan. a Zoom meeting, all at the Larry Teague The firm’s chief technical same time. officer made a lengthy presenA drawback to wireless is that new satellites are not in a statation to the legislative Joint Performance Review Committee. tionary orbit above the earth. They BDG is recommending fiber optic are lower to the ground and move technology, in spite of its potentially constantly. Satellite dishes must conhigher costs, because it would “fustantly search for the satellite that is moving overheard, and to do that ture proof ” the system. the dish must have a clear view of the In other words, it may be faster horizon. Trees and hills block sigand cheaper to install wireless cells in rural areas, but the dramatically nals, and in Arkansas there are lots growing demand for high speed Inof trees and hills, the executive said.

A current estimate of the cost is ternet would soon overburden the about $550 million. The federal govcapacity of wireless systems, he said.

The demand for greater Internet ernment has several large grant procapacity has been growing by 50 grams ongoing. The most recent one percent a year, he said. As networks is just getting underway. Rules will build more capacity, telecommube written in June. It should provide $1 billion to Arkansas, he said. nications companies tend to offer The state will have to decide how products and services that require best to subsidize installation of new more capacity. fiber networks, for example, whether The new services include holoto award private companies a flat fee, graphic displays, lengthy videos in such as 75 percent of project costs, high definition and real time teleor whether to guarantee a minimum phone connections that include vidrate of return on investment. eo as well as audio.

BDG recommended a detailed As broadband speed increases, application process for Internet pronew applications are developed that demand more speed and the circle viders to follow if they wish to parcreates its own momentum. Thus, a ticipate. It also recommended allowminimum standard for broadband ing a broad diversity of companies to capacity is a moving target. apply, such as utilities, electric comWireless is good for mobile phones panies, municipalities, Internet serand satellite connections in automovice providers and cable networks.

Asked by a senator if it would be biles, but BDG’s mission is to recomgood to allow two or more providmend technology for households, the executive told legislators. ers to compete in a certain area, in Nationally, the consensus is that a order to increase options and enminimum speed of 100 megabits per rollment, the BDG executive replied second is a good household stanthat “most people in the telecom business like having a monopoly, if dard. they can.”

For a typical family, a minimum

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

Robert Allen Smith

Robert Allen Smith, age 79, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Sunday, May 8, 2022, at the Mena Regional Health System. He was born on Thursday, February 18, 1943, to Frankie Smith and Lillie Edwards in Lexington, South Carolina.

Robert was a very straight forward man that didn’t have any patience for nonsense. But, at the same time, he had a heart of gold.

He would often help people in need anytime he was able. Robert served proudly in the United States Air Force. He was a jack of all trades, but for many years worked as a carpenter and later retired from a successful truck driving career. He enjoyed thrift shopping, fishing, listening to old country music like Conway Twitty and Hank Williams, and reading Louis L’Amour novels.

Most of all, he enjoyed gardening in his free time. Robert loved his family, and spending time with his great grandchildren, and could often be seen being goofy and funny, especially with Destiny and Serenity who lived next door. Robert was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, John Smith, Henry Smith, and Frank Smith; and one sister, Eva Smith.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Nelda Smith of Mena; two sons, Christopher Smith

of Cove, and Barry Smith of Lexington, Alabama; six grandchildren, Jenny Hogan, Crystal Perales, Amber Williams, Tyler Smith, Brandon Riddle, and Brianna Smith; fifteen great-grandchildren; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at 2:00 PM at the Mt. Gilead Cemetery in Rocky, Arkansas, with Brother Phillip Hatley officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. No visitation is planned.

Amanda Lynn Turnbough

Ms. Amanda Lynn Turnbough, age 39, passed away Wednesday, May 11, 2022, in Texarkana, Texas. She was born July 27, 1982, in Grannis, Arkansas, to James Albert Turnbough and Cindy Lou Kuykendall Turnbough.

Ms. Turnbough was a homemaker by profession and loved fishing, camping, cooking, listening to music, and playing softball; however, above all else, she loved to spend time with her family.

Ms. Turnbough is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Barom and Marie Powell; paternal grandparents, Lester and Elizabeth Turnbough; sister, Elizabeth Marie Kyle (Turnbough); uncles, Ronnie Turnbough, Wesley Turnbough, and Travis Powell; as well as by her aunt, Sandi Ridge. She is survived by her companion of 17 years,

Lazaro Perez; daughters, Elizabeth Dominique Alameda Turnbough and Hayden Maria Perez Turnbough; father, James Albert Turnbough; mother, Cindy Lou Turnbough; sisters, Jessica Turnbough, Celeste Martinez and husband Gabriel; nieces, Cortney Kyle, Jeannette Kyle, Heidi Turnbough, Nicole Martinez; nephew, Gabriel J. Martinez; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, other family and friends too numerous to count.

Cremation services for Ms. Turnbough have been entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A memorial service for Ms. Turnbough will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 21, 2022, at the Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Don Youngblood officiating under the direction of BeasleyWood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Complete Up-to-Date Obituaries at

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

News 7

May 18, 2022

Your Pulse!

Letter to the Editor

I would like to put my 2 cents in regarding the wet/dry issue for Polk County. It is my opinion that the county would benefit by being wet. In the May 4 issue of the Pulse Mr. Pollen admits to having a glass or two with his meals. Where does he get his wine? Does he go somewhere to buy it or have someone else buy it for him? Since it can’t be purchased in Polk County, it is purchased in a wet county. That county benefits from the sale. My hubby enjoys having a beer at the end of the day especially on hot days. Since he can’t purchase it here, he has to have someone else get it for him or drive to where he can buy it.

My hubby is a volunteer 1st Responder/ Fireman, and he has witnessed the effects of people driving to the beer joint out on Hwy 8 west. It is about 18 miles from the beer joint to Mena city limits. These people who drive over there, get their alcohol then drive back (often drinking while they drive). It has caused many accidents; he gets called out (they are on call 24/7).

Why not let these people get their alcohol in Polk County? Thankfully there are now several restaurants who serve alcohol now. No one seems to not approve when the CMA comes to town. They spend lots of money while in Mena, most of the CMA members drink alcohol, and they go to churches here. (I know this for a fact) Most doctors agree that having wine is good for your health.

Again, this is my opinion, but myself & my hubby will sign the petition for Polk County going back to a wet county.

Donna Lay, Mena

Letter to the Editor In the past few days, a group has published the names and home addresses of the conservative Supreme Court Justices who had drafted a brief that did not sit well with some. It should be noted that only the conservative justices were targeted, not the liberal justices.

It would go a long way with me if our politicians would do their jobs so the justices could do theirs. Rather than enact laws that address self-serving needs, the needs of a lobbyist, or a special interest group, how about addressing the needs and views of the whole? So many career politicians fail to do what needs doing and only seem to be concerned with remaining in power, at any cost. It is the job of Congress to enact

laws and the courts to interpret them. It is not the job of our courts to legislate from the bench.

By publishing the home addresses of the justices (or other conservative politicians in the past) they have in essence pointed a loaded gun at them and their families in the form of a deranged person or mob who may be capable of harm to them and their families. That seems to me this is a hate crime if there ever was one. Do not wait until there is a tragic incident resulting in death or destruction to act. Do the right thing now before this gets out of hand.

There are limits to free speech and this needs to be one. Crying fire in a crowded theater is one exception. This should be another. For those who choose to put the lives of others at risk, then absolve themselves of blame, since they did not do the crime themselves, or that they may remain anonymous is more than inexcusable. I think the true definition of a coward is to get others to do their bidding while thinking their hands are clean and they take no blame, or that they are incapable or unwilling to act themselves.

It is not acceptable to sit by idly and allow a few to put our republic and the institutions we have fought long and hard to live by at jeopardy because some feel their cause is more important than any change they may oppose.

According to Christian Headlines.com there have been 63,459,781 deaths from abortions performed since the passage of Roe v Wade (410 U.S. 113 (1973) ). That is unconscionable and impossible to fathom that much loss of life of innocent babies.

Maybe it is past time to take another look at the issue, in a manner that can be debated in a civil manner without violence, and see if there are other options we can explore... humanely.

Of course, if you are willing to kill an unborn child, it comes as no surprise to me that you have no qualms about wanting to harm others or causing those you can influence to do your dirty work for you. Our federal law enforcement agencies have the tools to track down your emails, texts, and other electronic communications and only need laws making this kind of activity a crime so they can make arrests and judges like the ones they are trying to out to put them where they can do no more harm, except to themselves.

We should no longer be tolerant of the

acts of small-minded, vindictive people that put us all at risk. Debate and have opposing views, peacefully. Vote and have your say in the matter. But violence is not now, nor has it ever been the answer. Threats and intimidation are precursors to violence. To think that a group that is supposed to be impartial is not worried about their families is not thinking through the possibilities of this action, and what influence this may have on their decisions. If there was no concern about possible outcomes, then why did the names and addresses of the liberal judges not get in print as well.

If this is not dealt with in a firm and unyielding manner, then any decision in the future by the Supreme Court that is contentious can expect the same dangerous response. For that matter, any decision of any court that is not favorable to a few. We are a nation of law and without respect for it, we may plunge into anarchy. Where does it stop?

As always, I thank you for a forum allowing me to express my views. With respect and kindest regards...

Ronald Goss..Retired, Mena

Letter to the Editor For the past several months, I have continuously read the letters to the editor pertaining to the legalization of alcohol in Polk County. In fact, it seemed to be the only reason in the previous weeks that has taken a full page in the Pulse. I, like about half of the responders, are newbies to the area that have either escaped the cold of the north, or in my case, the south and the ungodly humidity (no yours doesn’t come an inkling close to coastal humidity) and a heat index of 115 on the day of September 21, 2018 when we bid Georgetown TX happily our final farewell.

My first night here I went looking for a bottle of vino. That’s on me. I didn’t do my homework. I’m Italian, after the craziness of those previous days in 2018, I wanted to celebrate. Understand, I only know of 2 dry places in Texas. One being Weatherford and another being a story my granddaddy told me about which was a town he drove through that had a fight between the drinkers and the church congregations so they divided it down the middle. You could only buy and drink on one side of the street. I think that’s a little Barney Fife 50’s but Pops was never one to spin a fib.

I really love this little town, but it reminds me of the town I grew up in. Everyone knew that you get good grades or learn an amazing trade and get out of there as fast as

you can. Like this town it has zero to offer anyone unless you are in the medical field, LEO, attorneys, anything in that.

The town I grew up in, you can’t afford to live in. If you look up Kerrville TX, it’s in the top 10 of places to retire, but if you are under 50 without a degree, you won’t make it.

The more you keep killing the growth in this town, the more you are to blame. Next time you open a publication of this paper, skim through it to where the kids are winning awards, scholarships.... those are young adults that will go to other thriving communities to work, open businesses, PAY TAXES. Let’s do this, go to places that don’t serve alcohol. Oh wait, if you go to the 4 nicer restaurants in Mena, they sell alcohol.

I have read all the complaints about alcohol being the downfall in our society if we allow it in our community. I swear for a few times there I was hearing music from Footloose.

Linda Remington, Mena

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

Rackley awarded Arkansas State Elk of the Year

Mena Elks Lodge 781 member of July celebration. in Walmart supporting the Lodge Crystal Rackley was awarded ArkanCrystal is a dedicated employ- Christmas Angel Tree and Toys for sas State Elk of the Year for the 2021- ee at our local Walmart and is vital Tots program. She co-ordinates with 2022 Lodge Year at the ArWalmart management to kansas State Elks Association place the tree, receive the gifts Convention held in North Litand then picks up and transtle Rock on April 30. ports the gifts to our Lodge for Crystal has been an active our Annual Children’s Christmember for 14 years at Lodge mas event. She puts in hours 781 and continues a famiof time sorting, packing, and ly tradition of membership. traveling for this program and Crystal was instrumental in helps ensure that 500+ chilstarting a ladies dancercize dren receive gifts from Sanclass at our Lodge. ta. Crystal also reports her This class meets twice a week volunteer hours to Walmart and has not only improved management, which in turn the health of those particicontributes to our Lodge pating but has also drawn in through their Employee Volnew volunteers for our prounteer Grant Program. grams and participants in our Crystal is always available ENF fundraisers. The class is a to help out with anything and fundraiser for our Lodge Aceverything and everyone at tivities Committee and helps Mena Elks Lodge is blessed to fund our Community Fourth Crystal Rackley (left) presented by the Lodge Exalted Ruler, have her as an active member.

Mike Burnett. (Submitted photo)

Sensory mats donated to Homewood Cottages

Submitted by Bridgett Martin, CEA-Family and Consumer Science Agent/4-H

Polk County Extension Homemaker clubs have monthly meetings where they share a brief educational program

The Back Country Extension Homemakers recently donated 19 sensory mats to Homewood Cottages Rehabilitation and Senior Care Facility. Vickie Hughes accepted the donations by members Shelly Collins and Jane Buttermilk.

Fidget Activity Mats are lap quilts, the size of oversized placemats, with different textures to feel, and things to open and close to keep hands busy. These activity mats help soothe the agitated fidgeting of people with dementia or autism. The mats also help focus attention, stimulate senses, exercise hand muscles, and entertain users.

with members followed by fun, food, and fellowship. EH clubs around the county are always looking for community service projects that can improve

the quality of life of citizens of Polk County.

Back Country members are gifted seamstresses and artists.

Their knowledge and ability is shown in the community service projects that they are been involved with including donating adult aprons to senior living facilities in our county.

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer.

Water main flushing Submitted by Mena Water Utilities

Mena Water Utilities will again be conducting our bi-annual water main flushing program during the week of May 23 through May 27, 2022. Mena Water has scheduled the lines on the south side of Highway 71 including the Nunley and Board Camp areas for flushing on Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday and Thursday, the lines on the north side of Highway 71 arc scheduled to be flushed. Flushing is done as a part of a scheduled preventative maintenance program to help maintain good water quality and to improve the water flow in the water distribution system.

As Meria Water flushes your area, you may experience a temporary reduction in water pressure. You may also sec some color and/or sand in your water, or you may notice a slight change in the taste and odor of your water. These conditions are normal during flushing activities, and only temporary. If you should experience any of these changes, or if you sec some cloudiness or rust color in your water, Mena Water recommends that you refrain from washing light colored laundry; likewise, we recommend that you flush the pipes of your home or business.

Flushing of your home or business’s pipes is accomplished by opening your front outside hose bib until it runs clear and has no noticeable taste or odor.

Mena Water regrets any inconvenience the flushing may cause you.

If you have any questions or if you experience any persistent water quality problems as a result of this maintenance program, please call Mena Water Utilities at 479-3942761.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

OLT auditions announced for hilarious summer show Submitted by OLT

Ouachita Little Theatre is providing summer entertainment that will be popular with a large group of comedy fans. It is entitled “Monty Python’s Edukational Show,” which is a musical comedy comprised of a collection of skits, songs, and videos from the “Flying Circus” series as well as some of the Monty Python movies.

This production was purposely written for student actors and actresses from eighth grade through college age.

If you are unfamiliar with this comic genre, it appeals to the junior high through the older adult set. Therefore, individual parental discretion is advised for our youngest fans.

Auditions will be held Thursday, May 26, from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, May 28, from 9 a.m.-noon. Director Jered Biard is seeking approximately 15 young people from an age range of eighth graders through college undergrads. Each actor will be asked to fill a variety of roles. Even though Monty Python was an all-male comedy troupe, this show will have acting opportunities for both males and females.

Performance dates for this show are slated for July 29-31 and August 5-7.

If you have any questions, you can contact director Jered Biard through the OLT website at OLTMENA.COM. There you may also find more information about this show and Ouachita Little Theatre membership.

Zafra Church Homecoming and Dedication Celebration

By Trey Youngdahl Zafra Church will be celebrating the long-lasting life of their house of God on Sunday, June 5.

A long-time staple of the area, Zafra Church has seen several baptisms, birthdays, and weddings of the tight-knit community. Now, that community is coming together to celebrate the life of the church.

“I like to call (Zafra Church) a lighthouse, even though we’re not by the ocean,” said Dr. Cynthia Perkins, member of Zafra Church.

“It’s one of those places that has seen many people married, many people buried, and where people have raised their families. People that have come and lived there and learned about God’s love and the gospel and gone on to be missionaries, and preachers and teachers like myself.”

Starting off at 10 a.m., Gene Higgins, former Nashville country-gospel singer, will play for the attendees. Higgins used to

frequent the Kiamichi Mountain area for several concerts and revivals.

The regular church service and worship will start at 11. This will be a lively service, complete with singing and passionate preaching.

There will be a big barbeque lunch served before 2 p.m., at which time there will be a dedication ceremony honoring the people who have contributed to the church.

Built in 1948, Zafra Church, located at 13466 Zafra Rd. in Zafra, Oklahoma, continues to make improvements to the building.

They have recently added two bathrooms and a new classroom, which will be used for youth classes.

“Kids come all the way from Wickes and Mena and Cove, and it’s such a joy to finally have a room to have everybody in,” Perkins said. “We’re asking that anybody who has been involved, we would love for you to come.”

For more information, call (918) 755-4462.

News 9

Beginning sewing classes offered to area youth Submitted by Debbie Miller County Extension Agent - 4-H Sewing classes will be offered June 6, June 13, and June 27 at the Wickes Methodist Church from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The classes are open to 4-H youth ages nine and older. Younger members can attend if accompanied by an adult.

Cost for the class is $10.

Registration is due by May 27 by calling the Polk County Extension Office at (479) 394-6018. Par-

ticipants will need to bring their own fabric and thread. Sewing mac h i n e s will be available, but it is recommended that participants bring their own.

Those who attend all classes will complete an apron, pillowcase, oven mitt, and a large bag.

The class is offered jointly by the Extension Homemakers and 4-H. Class size is limited.

Boozman secures improvements to strengthen Arkansas water resources WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, secured priorities to improve and strengthen Arkansas water resources in legislation unanimously passed by the committee.

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) authorizes water and wastewater projects, invests in ports, inland waterways and improves U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) programs.

“The Water Resources Development Act strengthens our state’s waterways and ensures we have safe and reliable sources of drinking water while promoting transportation, job creation and commerce. I’m proud to create and advance policies to ensure water infrastructure meets the evolving needs of Arkansans,” Boozman said.

Boozman-authored provisions that make critical investments in Arkansas water infrastructure include: • Providing the Corps authority to be more proactive in working with its local partners to address rainfall in the St. Francis watershed as a result

of population growth in Jonesboro and Paragould.

• Creating a pilot program to allow a locality or a private entity to apply for structural/ nonstructural project funding assistance to help with conservation efforts.

• Establishing an inland waterways dredging pilot program that would allow the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System to receive funding to dredge the river. This would allow interested parties to use funds to deepen the channel to 12 feet so barges and boats can carry larger loads on the Arkansas River.

• Permitting the Corps to reinvest recreation fees to improve facilities where the funds were collected. The provision will create an incentive for the Corps to maintain good facilities and provide quality recreational opportunities on our public lands. More than $8 million was collected at Arkansas Corps recreation facilities in Fiscal Year 2021.

10 Education

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse UA Rich Mountain announces spring 2022 honor recipients [May 12, 2022 | MENA, Ark.] The University of Arkansas Rich Mountain has announced the students named to the Chancellor’s List and Vice Chancellor’s List who were enrolled for the spring 2022 semester.

Students named to the Chancellor’s List are full-time, current students who complete 12 semester credit hours or more, excluding developmental coursework, and earn a 4.0 grade point average or higher.

Lakelin Ashley – Mena, Ark. Brayden Autry – Aubrey, Texas Katie Benefield – Mena, Ark. Lauren Bollmeyer – Mena, Ark. Alicia Castrejon – Wickes, Ark. Brooke Detommaso – Las Vegas, Nev. Madison Dettmer – Benton, Ark. Saleen Dixon – Boles, Ark. Cynthia Doty – Mena, Ark. Jessica Douglas – GATESHEAD, United Kingdom Mary Duncan – Bauxite, Ark. Lawrence Erickson – Mena, Ark. Natalie Ford – Mena, Ark. Christopher Foster – DeQueen, Ark. Melanie Glossup – Allen, Tex. Tiffany Gwin – Waldron, Ark. Mandy Harrison – Mena, Ark. Shannon Helm – Whitesboro, Okla.

Altarra Higgins – Mena, Ark. Allison Irwin – Hot Springs, Ark. Paul Kaelin – Mena, Ark.

May 18, 2022

Daniel Kennedy – Oden, Ark. Barkan Kilic – BRAUNSCHWEIG, Germany Katherine Klingbeil – Mount Ida, Ark. Madelynn Lacaze – Longview, Tex. Brenci Marrufo – Grannis, Ark. James McCormick – Benton, Ark. Kaylin McKee – Wickes, Ark. Miriam Mendez – Mena, Ark. Christopher Moore – Grannis, Ark. George Morgan – Wickes, Ark. Kimberly Morriss – Wickes, Ark. Abigail Nance – Mena, Ark. Tammy Nelson – Mena, Ark. Darla Parnell – Mena, Ark. Presleigh Payne – Grapevine, Tex. Victoria Rollins – Mena, Ark. Gina Santoria – Lawrence, Kan. Grant Shankle – Van Buren, Ark. Lauren Sikes – Mena, Ark. LaMonte Warta – Batiest, Okla.

Abigail West – Ida, Ark. Salem Weston – Oden, Ark. Silas Weston – Oden, Ark. Kara Wymann – Mena, Ark. Kelsey Yother – Waldron, Ark. Students named to the Vice Chancellor’s List are full-time, current students who complete 12 semester credit hours or more, excluding developmental coursework, and earn a 3.5 to 3.99 grade point average.

The Vice Chancellor’s List for the spring 2022 semester are as follows:

Steven Armstrong – GLASGOW, Scotland Brenna Aynes – Mena, Ark. Hope Badger – Mount Ida, Ark. Jackson Baker – Sherwood, Ark. Connor Bise – Damascus, Ark. Madison Blair – Mena, Ark. Emily Burtnett – Booneville, Ark. Yeremi Camacho Vazquez – Wister, Okla.

Heather Carlton – Wickes, Ark. Cole Clark – Clarksville, Ark. Brookely Coffey – Sims, Ark. London Copelin – Mena, Ark. Avery Cotten – Longview, Tex. Trey Coughran – Waldron, Ark. Natalee Dinnerville – Carthage, Tex. Gracie Evans – SHREWSBURY, United Kingdom Halie Ewing – Glenwood, Ark. Drake Fontenot – Bossier City, La. Edward Garcia – DeQueen, Ark. Aubrey Garrison – Ward, Ark. Tyreek Gilkey – Fort Smith, Ark. Emmylyn Goss – Mena, Ark. Maddison Gunn – Mena, Ark. Rhiannon Holmes – NEWCASTLE, United Kingdom Madeline Hopper – Pencil Bluff, Ark. Amy Huffmaster – Waldron, Ark. Jaden Hutchens – Waldron, Ark. Morgan Johnson – Rowlett, Tex. Aletha Jones – Waldron, Ark. Hayden Koller – Texarkana, Ark. Ciara Lance – Mena, Ark. Makayla Leonard – Mena, Ark.

Rebeka Lewis – Mount Ida, Ark. Emily Liles – Mena, Ark. Randy Little – White Hall, Ark. Ayden Ludwig – Hatfield, Ark. Macy Maddox – Mena, Ark. Haley Magueyal-Perez – Nashville, Ark. Christina McCarley – Grannis, Ark. Matthew Nance – Mena, Ark. Shasati Parsons – Newhope, Ark. Isaac Pelts – Knoxville, Ark. Kailey Pentz – Siloam Springs, Ark. Morgan Puckett – Mena, Ark. Elizabeth Rochen – Grand Saline, Tex. Jonas Rodriguez – Wickes, Ark. Kendra Rose – Mount Ida, Ark. Esmerald Salgado – Grannis, Ark. Bailey Sawyer – ANGUS, Scotland Dawson Sawyer, BRECHIN, Scotland Levi Self – Wickes, Ark. Amy Singleton – Greenwood, Ark. Sydney Smith – Siloam Springs, Ark. Christopher Tarr – DURBAN, South Africa Irvin Trejo – Wickes, Ark. Sarah Wallace – Mena, Ark. Jamie Watt – ARBROATH, Scotland Christopher Webb – El Dorado, Ark. Jackson Wells – Lowell, Ark. Cooper White – Sheridan, Ark. Sunnie Wilkinson – Colmesneil, Tex. Jah Kaiya – Little Rock, Ark. Alexandrea Wright – Mena, Ark.

CRSD summer feeding program

The Cossatot River School District will furnish a Summer Feeding Program, providing meals to the community for breakfast and lunch.

Meals are free for 18 and under.

For adults, breakfast will be $2.25 per person and lunch will be $4.

Meals will be provided at the Wickes Elementary School at 130 School Drive.

Time: Breakfast 7:30 a.m. – 8 a.m.

Lunch 11 a.m. - noon Combo 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Dates: May 31 - June 3 June 7 - June 10 June 14 – June 17 June 21 – June 24

For more information, contact Carla Harwood, child nutrition director, at (870) 385-7101 Ext. 5800.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

UA Rich Mountain’s PTK Chapter Inducts New Members

Submitted by Leann Dilbeck

The UA Rich Mountain Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) recently inducted new members. Phi Theta Kappa recognizes and rewards high-achieving students and provides opportunities through Honors in Action and the Five Star Competitive Edge to develop such critical skills as problem solving, project planning, team building, effective

communication and conflict resolution. These skills give students a competitive edge when planning for transfer or applying for jobs.

New inductees: Jaci Allen, Lakelin Ashley, Brayden Autry, Daly Barnett, Madison Blair, Grace Carmack, Hope Carmack, Alicia Castrejon, Brendon Catlett, Cole Clark, Tyler Coon, London Copelin, Avery Cotton, William Doolan, Mary Kate Duncan, Matthew Ford, Natalie Ford, Alyssa Howard, Allison Irwin, Julianna Kennedy, Madelyn Lacaze,

Ciara Lance, Michael Lee, Robin Lehnerd, Rebeka Lewis, Maggie Lilly, Yvette Martinez, James McCormick, Dalton McCourtney, Valley Meeks, Michael Millard, Abigail Nance, Presleigh Payne, Kailey Pentz, Autumn Powell, Krisitina Provence, Morgan Puckett, Joseph Rickman, Lauren Sikes, Carleigh Smart, Chloe Speight, Christopher Tarr, Daniel Taylor, Jennifer Taylor, Taylor Thacker, Irvin Trejo, Kailey

Wade, Mary Emily Wagner, Hunter Waters, Alyssa Wilson, and Alexandrea Wright.

Serving as PTK Leadership is Dalton McCourtney, President; London Copelin, Vice-President; Ally Wright, Secretary.

Phi Theta Kappa is recognized as the official honor society for community colleges by the American Association of Community Colleges. The UA Rich Mountain PTK Sponsor is Penny Lunsford.

Education 11

Wilson recipient of local high school scholarship Submitted by Kenny H. Miller Jr.

The Shelter Insurance® Foundation awarded a $1,500 scholarship to Alyssa Wilson, a graduate of Cossatot River Schools. Shelter agent Kenny H. Miller Jr. sponsors and partially funds this scholarship.

Beginning the fall after the recipient’s high school graduation, Wilson can direct the scholarship funds toward tuition, fees, or campus housing for any course of study and leading to an academic degree at any accredited college or university.

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

The scholarship is paid directly to the school the recipient selects. Wilson received a certificate from Miller on behalf of the Shelter Foundation.

The Shelter Insurance® Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation for charitable and educational purposes. It is sponsored by the Shelter lnsurance Companies—offering auto, home, life, farm and business insurance services to customers in 14 states via a network of local insurance agents and headquartered in Columbia, Missouri.

12 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Red Ball Convoy a historical mobile display

May 18, 2022

By Ethan Nahté The Arkansas Military Vehicle Preservation Association (AR MVPA) will be holding their Red Ball Convoy, May 21, but the static display will be on view up close and personal for the public, Friday, May 20, at the Annual Mena Street Dance, starting at 6 p.m. The historic military vehicles will be set up near Washburn’s, featuring vehicles from the Arkansas MV Travelers, which is a local chapter of the international Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA).

The MVPA is the largest international historic military vehicle group, with roughly 8,000 members and nearly 100 affiliate groups throughout the world.

The following day, the convoy is expected to include 35-40 military vehicles and begin bright and early Saturday morning at 7 a.m.

Ed Anderson, with the Marine Corps League, said, “The police will escort them from Sun Country Inn to Mena Street and up to The Crossing, where they’ll reform. From there, they’ll go up the mountain. They’ll be fed breakfast at the Lodge.”

The convoy promises to be quite an impressive exhibition. The trek up the mountain may take twice as long to drive compared to a typical vehicle due to the size of some of the vehicles.

The convoy was originally called The Red Ball Express. It began operating August 25, 1944, and was staffed primarily by African American soldiers.

Trucks were emblazoned with red balls and followed a similarly marked route,

A 1985 model M929 5-ton dump truck owned by Bill and Sherri McCourtney making an appearance in Mena’s 2021 Veterans Day Parade. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

carrying approximately 12,500 tons of supplies on a daily basis to fast moving troops.

Anderson said, “It used to be a yearly event that goes back to WWII. They set up the convoy to get supplies up the coast to where the battles were taking place. It was actually a contribution to WWII and our victory there. They built highways and roads that were closed to civilians.”

The term Red Ball dates back to the

See AR MVPA continued on page 13

394-1938

TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHAUST • SHOCKS & STRUTS

Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm

1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena

Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

Around Town Board Camp Baptist Church will distribute free food to anyone in need, Thursday, May 19, 10 a.m. – noon. The church is located at 107 Polk 63 at the corner of Hwy. 8E and Polk 63, approximately nine miles east of Mena.

“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.

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.

The National VA 2k Walk, supporting homeless vets and promoting health and well-being, will meet at the Mena VA and walk to Bearcat Stadium. Participants will walk the 2k on the track, Wednesday, May 18, from noon-1 p.m. Call (501) 609-2711 for details.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has re-opened. All meals and activities have reverted to their original schedules. If you need to make delivery arrangements or changes call (870) 385-2373.

The Mena/Polk County Senior Center is putting together a bean bag baseball team and celebrating our seniors birthdays every 3rd Tuesday of the month. Contact Trena Hodge with questions, (479) 394-5459.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

Extension Homemakers will teach how to sew a quilt block at the Extension Education Building, 211 Dequeen St., Saturday, May 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Instructor will have fabric available, or you may bring your choice of fabric. You may bring a sewing machine, pins, scissors, cutting mat and rotary cutter. Sewing machines and supplies will be available at the class.

Live Country & Gospel Music, Tuesday nights at the Daisy Room behind Janssen Ave. Florist, 800 Janssen Ave. Starting at 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Come “Pick-N-Grin” with us. Everyone welcome.

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

Nimble Thimbles Quilt Guild will meet Monday, May 23, 1 – 4 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, across from Janssen Park. We will receive the next pattern for our row quilt. Those wishing to sew ribbons for Quilt Show awards may come at 9 a.m. Bring red, blue, green and background fabrics.

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!

Community 13

AR MVPA itary vehicles, so she called me,” Andercontinued from page 12 son said. “I talked to Jerome Casey, the

Santa Fe railroad in 1892 when they had express freight, especially perishables traveling cross country, that was placed on special tracks and marked with a red ball. Since then, trucking companies, as well as the military, have used the term.

The AR MVPA was established in September 1991 in Hardy. They became a MVPA affiliate in March 1992 and grew from there.

Anderson said, “They used to meet in Fayetteville every year. The place where they met got more populated. The citizens began to complain about the traffic congestion. They looked for another place in Arkansas to hold their yearly meetings. Last year, they met here for the first time and liked the area, and they are back this year.”

AR MVPA originally reached out to the Mena Polk County Chamber of Commerce, just pre-COVID. At the time, Pulse Multi-Media’s general manager Ashley Smith was in charge of Mena Advertising and Promotion.

“She didn’t know anything about mil-

state president of the AR MVPA. We fed them at Janssen Park last year and we did some other things to help them out.”

The majority of the vehicles are at least 40 years old. According to Anderson, they are probably from the mid-Vietnam era and going back to Korea and WWII. “Military vehicles haven’t changed that much until they came out with the HumVee,” Anderson said.

The only Marine Corps League member in the Polk County area with a military vehicle is Bill McCourtney.

Anderson said, “He didn’t participate last year. We’d love to have him involved in it. It’s like any organization. He only has time for so many things.”

After being on display for a short period atop the mountain, they’ll make their descent. Anderson said, “We are feeding them at 2:30, Saturday, at the American Legion Hall at Acorn.”

According to the AR MVPA website, they will continue into Oklahoma, make a stop, then return to Mena.

14 News LITTLE ROCK – The graduation season is upon us, so today I am congratulating the members of the Class of 2022 who overcame the expected difficulties of high school and college and then surmounted the totally unexpected challenges of a worldwide pandemic.

COVID-19 forced you to do many things differently. You attended some classes virtually from time to time. You might have missed some extracurricular activities such as music programs, competitive sports, and clubs.

For all that you missed, you also learned some lessons that you wouldn’t have otherwise. You watched leaders at all levels of health care and government assess the medical information and decide how to combat COVID-19 and how to keep Americans safe.

We witnessed robust debate about

May 18, 2022

To the Class of 2022

Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address

the intersection of science, medicine, public opinion, and emotion.

I imagine that these are lessons many of you will take into your careers, whether you are in public service or the private sector.

In Arkansas, we went virtual in our schools for a short time. We knew the best outcome for our students was to return them to in-classroom instruction as soon as possible. And we did. Our Department of Education worked with school districts all over the state to implement procedures and protocols to ensure in-classroom learning continued. Secretary of Education Johnny Key and educators in all corners of Arkansas sometimes worked seven days a week to support our teachers and students.

As we come out of the pandemic, we are enjoying all of our traditions, including graduation. I join you in your success as I imagine the sights and sounds as you walk across the stage, receive your diploma to the tune “Pomp and Circumstance,” your caps flying in the air as you finish one era of your life and head into the next.

Graduation time is a good time to pause and reflect on the challenges and what you have learned to overcome the next challenge.

As you look to the next stage of your life, don’t forget the people who helped you get to this point: your family, your friends, your teachers and professors, and your mentors. You can thank them in person, and you can thank them by

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse passing on their good work in your life when it’s your turn to mentor and lead.

The world needs your insight, creativity, energy, perseverance, and compassion. Graduation is not the end of your education but a brief stop on your way to learning even more. Learning never ends, and as you already have experienced, life will be a hard taskmaster. But never give up, because your greatest victories will come out of your greatest trials.

My Number 1 goal has been to make Arkansas an even greater place to live, work, and raise a family. Many of you in the class of ’22 will go to far-away places to chase your dreams. I wish you Godspeed.

But wherever that may lead, I hope your path eventually brings you back home to join us in making Arkansas the best place in the world.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

National Police Week - Justin Wagner

By Trey Youngdahl Mena’s student resource officer (SRO), Justin Wagner, has been serving the Polk County community for several years now.

Born and raised in Polk County, Wagner graduated from Acorn High School in 2007, then attended the Arkansas Fire Academy. He became a volunteer for both the Mena and Acorn Fire Departments. His interest

in law enforcement started because of the close relation between the fire and police departments.

“I was very community service minded. I loved helping everywhere I could,” Wagner said. “Being a firefighter didn’t fill the hole of wanting to get out and help. I started riding with some of the deputies and it just lit that spark for me.”

Among those he rode along with was former firefighter and current Mena

News 15

I was put in a position mayor Seth where I could help there.

Smith.

It kind of goes back to In 2012, that love for community Wa g n e r service,” Wagner said. “In was hired 2009 I got to see how into work at credible these people are the Mena working as a first respondjailhouse, er during the tornado. leading to Most towns our size that him being go through something like hired by that would’ve just shrivthe sheriff ’s eled up and faded away. department The community came as a SRO at together and got back in Acorn. operation—and that right N o w , Justin Wagner holding up a largemouth bass, Wagner is competes in tournaments during his off time from there speaks so much for the SRO the police force. (Photo courtesy of Justin Wagner) the people around here.”

Justin is an avid outdoor for Mena schools. He can be seen in the morn- enthusiast, spending his time away ings, rain or shine, in front of the from work camping, hunting and schools directing traffic. He takes this fishing with his kids. He even fishes part of his job duties very seriously competitively in tournaments and has because of his love for the Mena com- most recently broken the top 50 in the Mr. Bass standings. You can follow munity.

“That is a dangerous intersection. his fishing adventures at his Facebook I actually find joy in directing traffic. page, Justin Wagner Fishing.

16 News Submitted by Bridgett Martin Polk County Extension Agent FCS/4-H The Polk County Extension Service is working with members of the community to develop a Barn Quilt Trail in Polk County and they are looking for partners. Family and Consumer Science Agent, Bridgett Martin, is working to recruit property owners in town and in rural areas of the county to sponsor a barn quilt block that can be included on Arkansas’ Barn Quilt Trail.

Currently, 16 counties have registered trails throughout the state and there are Barn Quilt Trails to our west in Oklahoma. Maps and brochures are available for the Arkansas trails for counties that meet the 12-block requirement which is a great way to promote our local area.

The following is a list of require-

May 18, 2022

Looking for a few good barns or buildings

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Bridgett Martin stated, “The Quilt Block Trail has the ability to procure ments to have a Barn Quilt more traffic through and around Block: Polk County which means addiYou must own the propertional revenue to our communities. ty and replicate a traditional We would also like to encourage quilt pattern along with a hisdowntown businesses to get intoric story to accompany it. volved. Local property owners can Quilt blocks must be submitreach out to us if they are interestted to the state Quilt Trail coed in having a Quilt Block on their ordinator and approved before property. We are also looking for they are accepted as part of the experienced artists who might be trail. The quilt block must also interested in assisting in getting the be visible from an easily navblocks painted. We currently have igable road and have enough Located on the wall outside the Ouachita Little some of the supplies needed for 4X4 Theatre, this is one of two barn quilts up in Polk highway right-of-way access aluminum quilt blocks at the office County meant to be part of the Barn Quilt Trail. for visitors to stop and take a The other is at the VFW in Acorn. The quilt is for purchase at cost, however there few pictures. may be labor involved if someone is sponsored by Back Country EHC club.

(Trey Youngdahl/Pulse) hired to do the painting.”

Owners of quilt blocks should be aware that having a For more information on the Arquilt block on the trail may increase block will need to remain on the kansas Quilt Trail, you can visit their traffic and visitors to its location. building at least five years and the Facebook page at https://www.faceThis could be another way for the owner will be responsible for any book.com/ArkansasQuiltTrails/ or community to increase traffic in repairs or maintenance that is need- view the map at http://barnquiltinand around Polk County. The quilt ed. fo.com/map-AR.html

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 18, 2022

17

18 Faith

By Richie Lawry My granddaughters looked beautiful in their dresses as we made our way out the door and headed to the spring piano recital.

They had been practicing their recital pieces, and it sounded great to me. I asked them if they were nervous, and they answered, “A little,” and “Not really.” Seeing their confidence and composure reminded me of the years I took music lessons and was always terrified of recitals. But instead of being scared, they seemed excited.

We made our way inside the sanctuary when we arrived at the United Pentecostal Church of Ringgold. The piano students sat in the first two rows, and my granddaughters found their seats with the other students. When the recital began, the twitter of conversation died down, and the room became silent as everyone listened and hoped that each student would play their best. I sent up a silent prayer for each performer, remembering sweating through recital performances as a kid and hoping that no one would experience the panic that I always felt.

My granddaughter, Elisabeth, was second to play in the recital. As she stepped up to the piano and sat down, I slipped from my seat and made my way up the outer aisle to where I could film her. A few seconds after she started playing, the air conditioning came on in the sanctuary. As I filmed, I watched as the air from the air conditioning vent began to rustle the sheet music on the piano. The left side of the sheet music raised off the piano and looked like it might close.

I watched the sheet music with a horrified fascination as it slowly waved back and forth. The page moved almost 90 degrees several times before drifting back down into place.

I feared that the distraction of the moving sheet music would cause Elisabeth to stumble as she played, but she handled the situation with a poise and maturity that amazed me. One time I saw a small expression of alarm on her face when it appeared that the sheet music might blow closed, but the page drifted back down as she played on.

As the drama of the errant sheet music con-

May 18, 2022

An Arkie’s Faith The errant sheet music

Elisabeth preparing her sheet music to perform at her spring recital.

(Photo by Richie Lawry) tinued, I breathed a prayer, “Please don’t let this sheet music spoil her performance and cause her embarrassment.” I let out a sigh of relief when Elisabeth finished the piece with no mistakes. Her following two pieces were played beautifully from memory, so there was no way that errant sheet music could spoil them.

After the recital, I talked to my granddaughters and told them I was proud of them. When I mentioned the errant sheet music, I found out that the audience was unaware of the drama. The way the piano was positioned, the errant sheet music could only be seen from where I was filming. No one listening to Elisabeth play had any idea of the difficulties she was experiencing. I thought about how often we see other people and think we know them well, but we can’t see their struggles.

While I watched the errant sheet music and listened to the other piano students, I remembered growing up and taking music lessons. I played the trumpet and was in the band. I didn’t mind practicing and could always learn to play my pieces correctly, but my nerves would get the best of me when it was a performance. I have terrible memories of botched performances. Once I was scheduled to play a trumpet solo for a church area youth conference. On the way to the meeting, we had car trouble, making us late in arriving. I was so unnerved that I could hardly make a sound with my trumpet. I wanted the ground to open and swallow me.

Have you ever found that something that you can do, have done, and have practiced many times, fails you when you are under pressure? For me, that was my trumpet. No

Joke of the Week:

Studies have shown that 99% of people who are afraid of hurdles never get over it.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse matter how hard I practiced, I would make mistakes when playing for my music teacher or in front of an audience. In my junior year of high school, I transferred to a larger school and was too intimidated to try out for the band. I eventually stopped taking lessons, telling my parents that the pressure was too much. My trumpet sits forlornly in the garage. Now I can barely make a sound.

I recently heard a story that I’m sure never happened. But I liked the story and its application, so I will share it with you anyway.

We will call it a parable.

A famous concert pianist was preparing for a show when a group of admirers came to the concert hall. A little boy was there with his mother. He wandered away from her and found himself on a stage with a grand piano. Suddenly the curtains parted, and a spotlight lit the grand piano. The mother looked around for her son and saw him sitting at the piano on stage. He started playing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” The concert pianist walked up to the boy, put his arms around him, and began playing a counter melody as he whispered, “Keep playing; you’re doing great.” The audience was mesmerized as he played alongside the boy. When they finished, the audience rose in applause.

Paul wrote in Philippians 4:13 (NKJV), “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” What we do for God in our own strength is like playing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” in a concert hall. For us to accomplish anything worthwhile, God will have to be by our side.

Gentle Reader, life is a lot like a piano recital. Whatever we do, people are watching us. While they see our actions, they may never see the errant sheet music that makes us panic. The best thing we can do is ask God to lead our lives. God will sit down beside us and turn our music into something beautiful. Jesus tells us in John 15:4 (NCV), “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. A branch cannot produce fruit alone but must remain in the vine. In the same way, you cannot produce fruit alone but must remain in me.”

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

May 18, 2022

Arkansas Department of Agriculture Releases a Pocket Guide to Arkansas Forest Health

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to announce the release of the “Pocket Guide to Arkansas Forest Health,” a guide to insects, diseases, and other tree-injuring factors in the Natural State. The handbook is designed to serve as an identification tool and includes example images of injury, potential causes, and management strategies.

The guidebook was co-written

by Chandler Barton, Forest Health Specialist for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division, with assistance from Southern Regional Extension Forestry and Clemson Cooperative Extension.

“The ‘Pocket Guide to Arkansas Forest Health’ is an excellent source of information for landowners, forestry consultants, forest enthusiasts, and more,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “We appreciate the co-authors for their contributions to this helpful and practical resource.”

The guidebook describes many of the common causes for tree injury in Arkansas, what resulting damage may look like, and what management tools are available. Although some management recommendations are offered in the guide, Barton recommends contacting a specialist to determine how to mitigate an issue.

Barton also said, “This guide can be used to enjoy observing trees and the organisms that interact with them. I hope readers will cultivate an appreciation of living things and be good stewards for our environment.”

The Pocket Guides are available free of charge at all Forestry Division District Offices, as well as the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Little Rock Headquarters.

Find your local District Office at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/district-headquarters/.

More than 55 percent of Arkansas’s land mass, or 19 million acres, is forested with more than 12 billion trees. Arkansas produces timber valued at more than $400 million annually and ranks sixth in the nation in forestry products valued at over $6.4 billion. More information about Arkansas’s forests and how the Arkansas Department of Agriculture serves the forest industry can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/.

News 19

Polk County 4-H Livestock Judging team results

Submitted by Debbie Miller, Ryan Walston placed third in beef County Extension Agent - 4-H cattle judging, fifth place in swine, and fifteenth overall.

Members of the Polk County 4-H Halee Hoobler placed fourteenth Judging Team competed at the State in beef.

Contest on April 28 in Fayetteville.

Emmie Owens placed sixteenth in The team consisted of one senior reasons. member, Claire Walston, and eight Brenlei Mirus placed eighteen in junior members: Savannah Chris- sheep. tian, Halee Hoobler, Jake Huff, Jaylie Savannah Christian placed twenHuff, Brenlei Mirus, Emmie Owens, ty-first in swine judging.

Avery Singleton, and Ryan Walston.

The junior team placed seventh Claire Walston placed fourth high overall in the contest. This was their individual and the high individual third contest to compete in. over all for beef cattle in the senior Judging practices will resume in division.

November, but quiz bowl and skillJaylie Huff placed sixth in sheep a-thons teams are forming now. judging.

4-H youth interested in livestock Jake Huff placed ninth in reasons judging, livestock skill-a-thon conand 15th in swine judging. tests, or beef, poultry, or equine Avery Singleton placed ninth in quiz bowls should contact the Polk beef cattle judging and eleventh County Extension Office at 479overall.

394-6018.

THRIFTY THURSDAY CHIQUITA’S

$5 FOOD SERVICE FOR $3

BAYWASH CAR WASH $10 CAR WASH FOR $5

WENDY’S

LARGE BREAKFAST BACONATOR COMBO FOR $5

THE SHOP

$45 UNLIMITED TANNING FOR $25

CHICOLLO’S FOOD EMPORIUM THE WORKS FRIES & DRINK FOR $7

Listen EVERY Thursday Morning

For More Info Call 479-243-9600

20 Puzzles

THE POLK COUNTY

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May 18, 2022

05.18.22

05.18.22

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 05.11.22

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

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

Meet Mollie!

Hi! My name is Mollie, I am so sweet. I am 3 years old, and weigh about 52 lbs. I am good with other dogs, good with kids, and mostly house trained, still working on that. I am not good with Chickens. Please come to the shelter to meet me today.

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 21

May 18, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

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

T0518 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.

T0601 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.

T0629 Jeremiah’s lawn care. Friendly service & reasonable rates. Call (479) 394-7599.T0615 Tree services, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate.

T0629

- WANTED TO BUY -

I buy broken desktops and laptops.

Mitchell Computer Services, 717 Mena St. T0608

- FOR SALE -

CPR Registered Chihuahua puppies for sale. Blue bloodline. First shots given, dewormed, 8 weeks old. Adorable. Call (870) 648-5149 for more info.

T0518

- PUBLIC NOTICE -

Please vote for Lisa Standridge, Polk County Clerk. Vote deadline Absolutely May 24th, 2022. Stand with Standridge, Lisa Standridge.

T0518

- EMPLOYMENT -

Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System MAY 6, 2022 TO MAY 13, 2022

Brandee Purcell & Timothy Stubbs of Lockesburg, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May 6th Sarah Thompson & Matthew Schortner of Horatio, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born May 10th Katelyn Hudson & Johnny Ortega II of Waldron, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May 10th Teri & Robin Lehnerd of Hatfield, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born May 11th

Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T0525

- HOUSE FOR SALE Back up for sale 1998 Suns 16’x80’ 3 bed/2 bath at Jolly Hollow. Can be moved. $40,000 (479) 234-3498 T0525

Mandy Parks benefit lunch and auction

Shine Café in Grannis.

Proceeds will go to help inThe auction begins at 2 cur costs related to medical There will be an Indian taco p.m. with items donated by and related expenses. lunch and auction fundraiser friends and area businesses. benefiting Mandy Parks and her family.

The benefit will take place at the Wickes cafeteria, Sunday, May 22, starting at noon.

They are requesting donations. The food will be donated by area churches and prepared by The Remodeled Church in Grannis. Drinks will be donated by Rise and

By Ethan Nahté

GIVE CARE

Beagle Run on May 21

By Ethan Nahté The annual Beagle Run, aka the SFC Troy L. Miranda Memorial, will occur Saturday, May 21.

Staff Sgt. Miranda was the 12th Arkansan killed in combat while fighting in Iraq. He was leading his squad through one of the most treacherous areas of Baghdad, known as “Purple Heart Alley” near Talia Square, a sight of tremendous bloodshed, to assist another unit that was “pinned down.”

A grenade landed near him when they were ambushed on May 20, 2004. Three other soldiers were injured in the attack.

Miranda, 44, hailed from De Queen. He was assigned to C Company, 1st Battalion, 153rd Infantry Regiment, 39th Brigade Combat Team, Arkansas Army National Guard, assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division.

He was promoted to Sgt. 1st Class posthumously. and awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

He is buried at the Oak Grove Cemetery three miles west of Wickes.

Beginning at the Troy L. Miranda monument, there will be a moment of silence in the De Queen City Park at 11 a.m.

The convoy of motorcycle, cars and trucks will proceed single file to the Polk County Court House in Mena where another moment of silence will be observed at 2 p.m.

The convoy will then proceed to the Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge where the Troy L. Miranda Memorial Dinner will be served from 5-7 p.m.

For more information, contact Jason Hogan, (479) 216-8043.

22 Police

May 18, 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 May 9, 2022 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 282 near Hatfield in reference to a break-in.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hwy 375 E near Mena in reference to a trespasser.

May 10, 2022 Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a violation of an order of protection.

Deputies responded to a walkin complainant in reference to the theft of property.

May 11, 2022 Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a violation of a no contact order. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies responded to a report of Domestic Battery. Information was forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 417 near Mena in reference to an animal being hit by a car.

Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 659 near Board Camp in reference to a violation of an order of protection. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

May 12, 2022 Deputies responded to a walkin complainant in reference to a windshield being shattered after being hit by a rock thrown from a school bus tire.

May 13, 2022 Aramis Candelaria, 20 of Mena was arrested on a Felony Warrant for Residential Burglary, Criminal Trespass and Theft of Property.

May 14, 2022 Deputies responded to a residence on Polk 659 near Board Camp in reference to a violation of an order of protection.

May 15, 2022 A traffic stop near Hatfield led to the arrest of Richard Cheshire, 60 of Mena on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine or Cocaine with Purpose to Deliver and two Misdemeanor Warrants for Failure to Appear. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies were dispatched to a business on Hwy 71 near Hillcrest in reference to a break-in.

Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 0 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 May 8 No reports.

May 9 A report of theft was taken from Walmart.

May 10 A report of harassment was taken from a walk-in complainant.

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

Robert Wallace, 22, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

Michael Krulcik, 27, was charged with Possession of a Schedule 6 Controlled Substance, Driving on Suspended License and Speeding after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

May 11 Windal Loyd, 41, was served with two warrants after contact on 8th Street.

Jerry Allen, 28, was charged with Possession of Schedule 6 Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a traffic stop on Highway 71.

Marcus Hackworth, 39, was served with two warrants at Janssen Park.

May 12 Michael Krulcik, 27, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

Adian James, 20, was charged with Loitering and served with a warrant after a suspicious person complaint on 4th Street.

Darrell Sanders, 52, was served with a warrant at the county jail.

May 13 Jonathan McBee, 20, was served with a warrant at a residence on Mor-

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse row Street.

Benjamin Bonner, 36, was served with a warrant at a residence on Eagle Gap. Bradley Crawford, 27, was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a traffic stop on North Adams Street.

Michael Krulcik, 27, was charged with Possession of Schedule 6 Controlled Substance and Driving on Suspended License after a traffic sop on Eagle Gap Avenue.

May 14 A report of disorderly conduct was taken from a walk-in complainant.

A report of breaking or entering was taken at a residence on Oak Grove Avenue.

BAGWELL continued from page 1

Bagwell’s bond has been set at $50,000 aggregate. Bagwell was remanded to custody.

His arraignment hearing occurred May 16 before special judge Rodney Sparkman. According to Oklahoma State Courts Network, Bagwell was not present, but remained in custody.

The public defender was appointed as the defendant’s counsel. The reading of the information and further time to plead was waived. The defendant entered a plea of “not guilty.”

The preliminary hearing is set for June 27 at 9 a.m.

The 15-year-old girl accusing Bagwell of the Feb. 13 events is reported to be from Arkansas. Sources close to Bagwell verified that the accuser is neither a Sevier County woman who has a court Order of Protection against Bagwell since October 2020, nor a second woman who filed a petition against Bagwell for an Order of Protection in January 2022 with the Montgomery County court.

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News 23

Thomas part of heated Montgomery County Sheriff ’s race

By Patrick Massey

Montgomery County voters are heading to the polls this month to decide a number of primary party challenges for the May 24 election. Those challenges include a number of races for statewide offices, but also for who will lead the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office over the next four years.

The race for Montgomery County sheriff has been a heated one, with five candidates announcing their campaigns as Republicans. No challengers from other parties filed, so the race for Montgomery County sheriff will effectively be decided May 24.

Of the candidates running for Montgomery County sheriff, one is standing out for his decades of experience in law enforcement. Neal Thomas, a Montgomery County native, says he’s seeking the position for numerous reasons: to bring more accountability to the sheriff’s office and change a culture he sees as troubled; to bring more focus on the law enforcement issues in Montgomery County; and out of a desire to serve the community he’s from.

Thomas says his 34 years in law enforcement provide him with the experience to accomplish all of those goals.

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson I was visiting the Hogspore Cemetery and Dog Park to pay my respects. You can bring a dog with you, but you can’t plant him there.

Don’t let your mutt bury a bone, neither. It would upset a deceased Vegetarian. It’s easy to picture what upset deceased Vegans look like.

They look the same as living ones.

I seen the gravestone of longgone Fred Grumpey, renowned snake milker: “Fred Grumpey, dead and comfy. A serpent bit him on the hand, and now he dwells in the Promised Land. Oh, for Heavens snakes!” I didn’t add the year of his birth and death, cause nobody cares and Fred don’t mind … cause he passed.

We got through Friday the 13th without any troubles, but Sheriff

“I have been blessed with a wonderful career,” explained Thomas. “I’ve learned so much from the people I’ve met in the law enforcement profession. I think we have a lack of leadership [in Montgomery County] and I think the first step is to bring back some leadership and responsibility to the sheriff’s office. I believe I owe it to this community for allowing me to start my career in law enforcement here. That’s the main reason I’m coming back: I love this county, I love the people here, and I want to do everything in my ability to make this a better county.”

Few law enforcement officers in Arkansas have earned the experience Thomas brings to the sheriff’s race in Montgomery County.

His 34 years in law enforcement include 26 years with the Arkansas State Police. Thomas currently serves as Lieutenant of Company A, a position that commands Arkansas State Police activities through a wide swath of the state. He is a certified law enforcement firearms instructor, arson investigation instructor, homicide investigator and certified in crime scene investigation through the Criminal Justice Institute.

Awards he’s received during his career include the Trooper’s Cross. As a veteran of the Arkansas Army National Guard, Thom-

as served two combat tours in Iraq during which he was awarded two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart and retired as first sergeant.

Thomas’ certifications not only focus on leadership roles, but on training Arkansas’ future law enforcement officers as well.

Training, Thomas explains, would be a top focus of his as Montgomery County’s next sheriff.

“It all comes back to leadership,” said Thomas. “A police officer especially nowadays is not just a police officer. You’re a referee, a counselor, you’re a law enforcement officer. And we’re not doing the deputies a service by not teaching them how to perform those roles. We’re not setting them up for success.”

His goal as sheriff would be to provide his deputies with as much training as possible, including encouraging them to complete the free courses offered through the Criminal Justice Institute in Little Rock.

Thomas said another focus of his campaign is to bring more cooperation and communication between the other first response agencies operating in Montgomery County, and the citizens who reside there.

Those partnerships, Thomas stresses, are critical in effectively operating a sheriff’s

Hogspore News:

Disturbance at CMJ’s Sports and Clothing Store

Riley Combover showed up for a disturbance at CMJ’s Sports and Clothing Store on Thursday, the 12th. There was a run on the store for machetes and hockey masks.

The sheriff reported, “When I arrived, the machetes were completely gone, but eight women were still arguing over who could buy the last two hockey masks. The anxiety over the last two hockey masks caused a fight to break out. The ladies calmed down when they saw the strong, beefy arm of the law appear.”

CMJ’s Sports and Clothing opened about a year ago. Check out their sportswear options in the Women’s Decathlon department.

A new feller, Joey Potato, moved into town with his family. He bought

the old Miller farm from the estate, after Miller bought the farm. I met Mr. Potato at Bickum’s Hardware. He was getting supplies and stocking up on socks early for the winter. I welcomed him to the town. We talked awhile. I asked him, “The name Joey Potato is mighty unusual. How’d you get it?”

He said, “It’s ain’t at all unusual.

My father’s name was Joseph Potato.

I got the name too. Calling me Joe Jr. musta been awkward, so folks just called me Joey.”

Old Man Grimely was discussing his eating habits whilst bushwhacking a hot plate of Biscuits and Sausage Gravy at the COGUOMCD. Grimely said, “Doc Spicer suggested I discontinue my nightly pound

department.That, and ensuring the sheriff’s office regains the trust of Montgomery County citizens.

“I have been blessed with a wonderful career,” explained Thomas. “I’ve learned so much from the people I’ve met in the law enforcement profession. I think we have a lack of leadership [in Montgomery County] and I think the first step is to bring back some leadership and responsibility to the sheriff’s office. I believe I owe it to this community for allowing me to start my career in law enforcement here. That’s the main reason I’m coming back. I love this county, I love the people here, and I want to do everything in my ability to make this a better county.”

Thomas said he hopes Montgomery County voters will see his experience in law enforcement, his local roots and his leadership qualities as the right choice when they vote to choose their next sheriff. His campaign, Thomas stresses, is one of morals and ethics in local law enforcement.

Early voting is currently open in Montgomery County and election day is set for May 24. Thomas is running against four other Republican candidates: Wade Coffman, Greg Harmon, Andrew Thompson and Jerry Don Wheeler.

of cheddar cheese snack before bed.

It weren’t for the obvious reason of stopping unpleasant aromas. Doc thought that cutting the cheese out would be better. Then my train could leave the station on time. I didn’t like the idea, so he offered another solution: Take a laxative every day, but I pooh-poohed that notion too.”

Dr. Eaton Hamm, who treats stomach problems throughout Muleberry County, has some advice. “The important thing to remember about the digestive tract is, you have to keep it moving through the entire system. If it gets closed, it doesn’t take long for it to affect the whole body. You gotta open the pipes and get them flowing. If you do, then it keeps you feeling regular… and premium too.”

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

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May 18, 2022

Unbuckled be warned

Two week-long click it or ticket enforcement plan scheduled Submitted by Arkansas State Police Now is the time to change an unsafe practice. Beginning Monday, May 23, law enforcement will have patrols across Arkansas watching closely for motorists not using their seat belts.

The stepped-up enforcement operation will continue through June 5 as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Click It or Ticket defined enforcement action plan which spans the Memorial Day holiday period.

The Arkansas Highway Safety Office reminds drivers and their passengers that the regular practice of using seat belts is a proven lifesaver.

“The objective is to change the ways of so many drivers and passengers who never use their seat belts,” said Colonel Bill Bryant, Director of the Arkansas State Police and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “We want the act of buckling up to become instinctive for everyone anytime they get in a car or truck to travel.”

As a part of the Click It or Ticket plan for 2022, NHTSA has asked authorities in every state to participate in the kickoff event, Border to Border (B2B), a 4 hour national seat belt awareness event coordinated by participating state highway safety offices and their respective law enforcement liaisons scheduled for May 23. The B2B program is intended to increase law enforcement participation by coordinating highly visible seat belt enforcement involving drivers at heavily traveled, highly visible, state border locations.

“During the Click It or Ticket campaign, we’ll be working with our fel-

low law enforcement officers across local and state lines to ensure the message is getting out to drivers and passengers,” Colonel Bryant said.

“Buckling up is the simplest thing you can do to limit injury or save your life in a crash, and it’s the law.”

According to NHTSA statistics from 2020, there were 10,893 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in the United States.

More than twice the number of males died in crashes as compared to females. Additionally, the use of seat belts was lower among males. More than half the males who died in motor vehicle crashes (55%) were not wearing a seat belt. Among females who died in crashes during the same reporting period, 43% weren’t buckled up.

The 2020 statistical analysis indicates 58% of passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes at night, 6 p.m. - 5:59 a.m., were not wearing seat belts which has led to additional attention to be directed by troopers and other law enforcement officers to seat belt enforcement seat belt enforcement during the evening hours during the upcoming campaign.

Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, writing citations day and night.

More information about the Click It or Ticket mobilization can be found at https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/ click-it-or-ticket or by calling the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. News and facts about Arkansas’ ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities can be found at https://www.tzdarkansas.org/

THE POLK COUNTY

May 18, 2022 Pulse US Deputy Marshal James H. Mershon

By Ray Shelley

One hundred sixty-one years ago, from April 12, 1861, until April 9, 1865, four years of devastation and death, pitting brother against brother was one of the darkest days in American history. The Civil War took center stage.

It was estimated that 618,722 men lost their lives in those four years. Recently, the death numbers were recalculated with the loss as high as 750,000.

Whichever number is correct, it was the most significant number of deaths by war in American history.

Southern soldiers returning home saw the destruction caused by the war.

Family farms were utterly destroyed.

Starting over as a farmer lost its appeal, and many chose a different lifestyle. Law enforcement was one of them. That was the case with James H. Mershon.

Mershon was born in Kentucky in 1838. He served in both the Confederate and Union Army.

It took a while, but in 1877, Mershon was hired by Daniel Phillips “D.P.” Upham, U.S. Marshal for Western Arkansas.

Mershon was a very prolific man hunter during his tenure, bringing great praise from Judge Isaac C. Parker, Federal Judge for the Western District of Arkansas.

Many of Mershon’s arrests were routine and undocumented. A couple of attempted arrests ended in a shootout with Mershon the victor.

Another incident involved the killing of three small children. The shooting occurred in Delaware Bend, Chickasaw Nation, on May 12, 1883.

Having a writ for Jonis Laison, Sloan George, and one for Kimlin, alias Robertson Shelton, for murder. Mershon and deputy Cutler approached the cabin where the three men were supposed to be when shots rang out from

a grove of trees a short way from the cabin.

Cutler and Mershon returned fire. Unbeknownst to the deputies, there were three small children with the group. When all the firing stopped, one adult and two small children were dead; the next day, the third child died of his wounds. Later, Mershon was cleared of any wrongdoing by a grand jury.

Another interesting case was the investigation of the killing of 18-year-old Mrs. Stephens.

Martin Joseph (aka Bully Johnson), Bud Stephens, and Henry Loftis were partners in stealing horses. In April 1882, the three horse thieves and Mrs. Stephens (Bud’s wife) set up camp in the Arbuckle Mountain region of the Indian Territory. Mrs. Stephens was left at the base camp while the three partners ventured into the woods to build a make-shift corral for their stolen horses.

Later, while building the corral, and for unknown reasons, Stephens was shot in the head by Joseph. However, Joseph later claimed that Loftis did the killing. Shortly after the killing, Joseph returned to base camp, allegedly to inform Mrs. Stephens of her husband’s death. Instead of taking Mrs. Stephens to her husband, Joseph took her to a cave where Loftis met him.

Joseph and Loftis then raped Mrs. Stephens. As she pleaded for her life, Joseph shot her in the face killing her instantly. They dropped her body into a pit in the cave and threw her cloth-

ing, saddlebags, and a quilt, in on top of her.

Later, while drunk, Joseph bragged about the killing. Word got back to the marshal’s office, and Mershon was sent to investigate. Mershon and several posse men went to the cave in Arbuckle Mountain to investigate.

Mershon was lowered into the pit but retreated quickly up the rope because of his fear of the rattlesnakes surrounding the bones of Mrs. Stephans.

Deputy Spencer was lowered into the pit and shot the snakes. He then retrieved the bones and clothing of Mrs. Stephens for evidence against Martin Joseph. Mershon and the posse proceeded to the murder site of Bud Stephens and gathered the available bones.

Joseph was eventually caught. April 1883, exactly one year to the month of the murder of Bud Stephens and his wife, Joseph stood in front of Judge

History 25 Parker. The Stephens’ bones were on display in the courtroom in plain view of the jury for the entire five-day trial.

The jury took only 30 minutes to find Joseph guilty of murder.

On May 3, 1883, Judge Parker ordered Joseph to be hanged. On June 23, 1883, at 11 a.m., the gallows’ trap door sprung open; six-and-a-half minutes later, Joseph was pronounced dead.

In 1886, Mershon resigned his commission and left the marshal service, moving to Denison, Texas.

The following year, Mershon worked for the Santa Fe Railroad in Gainsville, Texas, as an express agent. Before the end of the year, he was promoted to railroad agent at Corsicana, Texas.

Sadly, before his death on April 16, 1899, Mershon was committed to an insane asylum in Terrell, Texas. The cause of death was heart failure.

Mershon was so well respected by the people of Fort Smith they had his body returned to the city, and he is buried in the Oak Cemetery beside some of his brothers in arms.

After Mershon died, his wife filed with the government for her husband’s Civil War pension. After several rejections, she hired an attorney and waited several more months for approval. Finally, the widow Mershon was awarded $13 a month pension for her husband [Eds. Approximately $450 in today’s money, accounting for inflation.].

26 Sports BUCKS continued from page 1 They took the win, 14-13.

The Bucks played another game less than 12 hours later, on May 15 at 1 p.m. Their opponents were the Murray State College Aggies. The Bucks would have to beat the Aggies and then play back-to-back to take on NOC-Enid at 4. Alas, the Bucks fell to the Aggies 7-4, ending their season with a 38-18 record.

The Bucks were successful this season, nonetheless. Four players: Chase Webb, Luke Rice, Jackson Wells, and Jake Fontenot, were all named to the All-Region first and second teams.

To add to their accomplishments, the NJCAA DII baseball poll ranked the Bucks No. 13 in the country.

Coach Lance Spigner was awarded the Region 2 DII baseball coach of the year. This is especially impressive considering this is only the second season for the UARM Bucks baseball.

May 18, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

West Regional tournament.

The top 16 junior squads and

by Patrick Massey senior Youth Shooting Sports top 16 senior squads qualified for squads competed in Jacksonville the State Tournament tobe held JACKSONVILLE – More than the weekend of May 6 and 7 at the June 3 and 4.

Cossatot River High School’s ju75 junior squads and over 100 Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports nior team, which included Flint Dickerson, Tayden Broach, Thomas Goethals, Dalton Jewell and Cody Shelton, placed seventh and qualified for the state tournament.

Gabe Bell was the Lone Ranger on Junior Squad Two and doubled his shooting average.

Senior Team Squad One, which included Brodie Dickerson, Cole Brantley, Hunter Hamm, Jerrod Frachiseur and Noah Richardson placed 10th overall, and also qualified for the state tournament.

Senior Team Squad Two includTop Shooters - Cossatot River High School’s Senior Team Squad One placed ed Cooper Hayes, Travis Taylor, 10th, overall, in the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports West Regional tourBraylee Jewell, Jacob Richardson nament on May 7. The squad, alongside the Cossatot River Junior Team, and Easton Johnson. They came earned a trip to the state tournament with its performance. (Submitted photo) up five targets short of qualifying for the state tournament.

Senior Team Squad Three included Justin Bell, Bradley Harwood, Landon Case and Kyler McKee. They walked to the line one shooter short of a full five-person squad but gave good effort with a couple shooters having their best scores shooting in Jacksonville.

CRSD Youth Shooting teams advance to state

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Submitted by Lynn Greenwade Local wildlife rehabber Tommy Young will release an adult female bald eagle on Saturday, May 21, at 1 p.m.

The eagle will be released at the vista overlook on Hickory Nut Mountain near Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Bring the family to see this symbol of our country fly off and head for home.

The public is invited to attend, free of charge.

Important Timing Note: While Young plans to release the eagle right at 1 o’clock, it may happen earlier. Please do not wait until the last minute to arrive.

Events will begin at noon, with ceremonies to honor friends lost in the last year and talks with Young about this latest eagle.

There have been times at previous releases where the eagle dictated the time, because it was too hot, or the

News 27

May 18, 2022

Bald eagle to be released bird was just ready to go, and delaying might have been harmful. Come early rather than late.

The event will be attended by various indigenous tribes for whom the eagle is an important symbol. They will present a drumming ceremony. Come early, to see this and hear Young talk about this eagle and the work he does.

The event is suitable for families and all ages. There is no charge to attend. Donations are gratefully accepted, however, as this important work receives no government funding and is supported solely by donations.

If you are unable to attend but would like to support this work, please mail a check to ANPWC (Arkansas Native Plant & Wildlife Center) at P.O. Box 1881, Mena, AR 71953. All donations are tax deductible.

Directions: Hickory Nut Mountain Vista & Picnic Area, U.S. Highway 270, Mt. Ida, Arkansas The turn off for Hickory Nut Mountain is located about 13 miles east of Mt. Ida on the left, or 23 miles west of Hot Springs on the right, approximately 1.3 miles west of the Garland/Montgomery County line.

Follow Hickory Nut Mountain Road as it climbs the mountain, taking the left fork at 1.0 mile. At 3.5 miles is a sign on the left for the picnic area.

The road ends at 4.2 miles at the vista overlook, where the eagle will be released.

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May 18, 2022

THE POLK COUNTY

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