Polk County Pulse November 17, 2021

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

November 17, 2021

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

Ed Anderson: Serving his country, serving his community

INSIDE:

By Trey Youngdahl

Sgt. Thomas Earhart

Veterans Day Memorial

Acorn Defends Title

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The Marines are widely regarded as one of the most elite fighting forces in the world. Marines serve on U. S. Navy ships, protect naval bases, guard U. S. Embassies and provide an ever-ready quick strike force worldwide to protect U.S. interests.

This is where we meet our hero, Ed Anderson. Anderson bravely served as a member of Echo Company 2nd Battalion 9th Marines from 1973-1979.

“I was trained in 29 Palms, California.

I attended the Herbert A. Littleton School of Communications. As you may know, Herbert A. Littleton received the Medal of Honor during the Korean War and was born in Mena. I’m now the Commandant

Mena Middle School receives OEP awards

Mena Middle School has been recognized by the Office for Education Policy (OEP) at the University of Arkansas as a school where students demonstrated high growth on the ACT Aspire.

The OEP creates an annual report entitled the Outstanding Educational Performance Awards recognizing schools with high student academic growth. OEP considers growth as the best indicator of the positive impact a school has on students.

Mena received the following Southwest Region awards: • High Overall Growth • High Math Growth

of the Herbert A. Littleton Detachment of the Marine Corps League,” Anderson said.

“After Radio School, I was sent to Camp Schwab, located in Okinawa, Japan and was assigned to Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. After training at Camp Schwab, we embarked on ships as part of the FMF, (Fleet Marine Force). I spent time on the USS Cleveland and the USS Dubuque. We trained at Base Mt. Fuji, Japan and did training as-

OEP provides badges for placement on the school’s website. Personalized paper awards will be sent to the district later this school year.

Awards are based on the 2021 content growth score calculated by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. These growth scores

See ANDERSON continued on page 12 reflect how much students at the school improved from 2019 compared to how much they were expected to grow considering prior achievement.

OEP recognizes schools based on Overall growth, as well as for growth in Math and English Language Arts separately.

2 News

November 17, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Sgt. Thomas Earhart catches a ride with the James K. Polk DAR On Veterans Day Submitted by Cortez James Copher, Regent of James K. Polk DAR The James K. Polk DAR Veterans Day Parade Float had a very lucky, wonderful experience... just as we were driving out of The Crossing church parking lot for the start of the parade in Mena Saturday, Nov. 6. We had been looking for weeks for an older veteran to invite to ride on our float, and then this happened: Skip Copher, a retired Air Force pilot riding the back of the DAR float, noticed two men rushing toward the back of our float with an older veteran.

They yelled out, “Can we get this veteran on your float?” Skip yelled back, “Sure!” He then yelled for our driver to stop. We lowered the back of the trailer, and quickly moved him to a seat near the other two veterans at the back.

Surprise of surprises!!! In talking with him during the ride, I learned that he was none other than a wellknown 99-year-old Mena World War II veteran, Sergeant Thomas Earhart, drafted in 1943. Earhart served in the

Army Air Corps, which became the Air Force. He served as a member of the 38th bomb crew that repaired B-25 Bombers in the Southwest Pacific.

Earhart wore his Army Air Corps dress and medals, rode the float, waved

Sgt. Thomas Earhart was drafted into the Army Air Corps in 1943.

a U.S. Flag, events like the and stood Veterans Day to salute Parade, where the judghe served as Grand Marshal es when of the 2019 we passed parade.

His them. daughter, TreI told him that na Sawatski, my father, brought him Albert back to the James, had 2021 parade. fought in He has also France attended sevd u r i n g The James K. Polk DAR float won first place in eral 38th World War the 2021 Veteran s Day parade. (l-r, front row) Bomb Group I and that Brenda Cunningham, veterans Sgt. Thomas reunions in b r o u g h t Earhart (U.S. Army Air Corps), Seaman E3 Tom different cita smile. Williams (U.S. Navy) ies around the What a (l-r, back row) Cheryl Anglin, Deonna Williams, country. He is blessing to Cortez Copher grateful to have have him Not pictured: Dotty Kinnun, Shelly Collins, Skip had the opporaccidental- Copher, Harley Boyd and Dennis Cunningham tunity to go (Photo by Kay Dye) on one of the ly catch us Honor Flights for a ride that took WWII veterans to see the during the parade.

Earhart, a life-long resident of Mena, WWII Memorial in Washington D.C. is very proud of his military ser- Thomas is a proud veteran and loves vice and participates in local veteran to share his war stories.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

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Your Pulse!

Dear Editor: Up front, I am vaccinated and, two weeks ago, got the booster for the COVID-19 Virus. This was my choice based on research into the benefits versus drawbacks of this new vaccine.

At 71-years-old with some underlying health factors that put me at risk of severe symptoms or death, it seemed to me to be prudent to avail myself of a vaccine that may be lifesaving.

I have lost friends and a family member to this terrible virus. None of them were vaccinated to the best of my knowledge. I have friends and family who are vaccinated and those who are not. They have access to the same information as I do and, in a country, where we are free to decide, or at least once were, our life choices should be our own.

I do not agree that the government has the right to mandate vaccination or suspend the employment of those who fail to comply.

It is a slippery slope we travel if our rights are eroded, no matter how well intended the mandate may be. I recently read an article that those not vaccinated that get infected with COVID-19 would be liable for their medical expenses. How that is even a possibility should have you ask what about those who smoke, drink, have unprotected sex, or are overweight? Should they be penalized as well?

I do not feel at risk being around someone not vaccinated. In fact, unless they tell me, there is no way to recognize their status. I still wear a mask when around others in a public setting and do not try to impose my actions on others.

You need only watch the news to wit-

ness the violence that has been wrought as a result of others doing just that. That I own a gun does not give me any right to mandate others must follow suit and be armed. That I eat healthy does not give me the right to mandate others do the same. That I do not smoke, or drink alcohol, does not give me the right to impose that on others. Should a condom be mandated to stem sexually transmitted disease or unwanted pregnancy? I could go on, but hope you get the point.

The things I just mentioned can impact the lives of others and are deadly. At what point do we say enough is enough? Freedom can slip away in a brief moment.

But if we are to mandate vaccinations, it should be across the board. I have yet to hear any of the politicians wanting control of every aspect of our lives say we should eject the illegal immigrants coming here by the thousands for not being vaccinated or wearing a mask, not just for COVID-19, but all the diseases we have worked so hard to eliminate or bring under control. We need to be vigilant and fight anything that threatens us as a whole, but not to the point of turning our country into a socialist nightmare.

I would ask one final question, has anyone heard of any mandate that all politicians be vaccinated, or any threatened actions if not?

Thank you allowing me to express my thoughts.

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

Letters 3

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4 News

November 17, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Proposed merger of Kansas City Southern Could affect rail and trucking traffic in Polk County

By Ethan Nahté

Deer Season Is Right Around The Corner If you’re in the market for a boat, ATV, camper, or other recreational vehicles – we have loans to help! Call or stop by today to learn more about our financing options for your “grown-up toys”.

600 HWY 71 S | Mena, AR | 479-394-3552

In the Business of YOU. Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender| www.ffb1.com | @ffbank1

Canadian Pacific Railway Limited, et al. (CP) and Kansas City Southern, et al. (KCS) have filed an application with the Surface Transportation Board (Board) seeking authorization for CP to acquire KCS. The Board’s Office of Environmental Analysis has determined that the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement is appropriate for this proposal.

The Board’s Office of Environmental Analysis (OEA) issued a Notice of Intent (NOI) Oct. 29 to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in connection with the proposed acquisition of control of KCS and its U.S. rail carrier subsidiaries (collectively, KCS) by Canadian Pacific Railway Limited, Canadian Pacific Railway, and their U.S. rail carrier subsidiaries (collectively, CP) in Docket No. FD 36500.

Because the proposed acquisition has the potential to result in significant environmental impacts, the Board’s Office of Environmental Analysis (OEA) has determined that the preparation of an EIS is appropriate pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act. The issuance of the NOI begins the scoping period, the first step of the environmental review process.

The purpose of this Notice is to inform stakeholders—including members of the public; tribes; federal, state, and local agencies; and environmental groups—interested in or potentially affected by potential environmental impacts related to the proposed acquisition.

According to the Applicants, the purpose of the proposed acquisition is to combine America’s two smallest but fastest-growing Class I railroads to build a more efficient and more competitive rail network.

The Applicants also state that the proposed acquisition would generate environmental benefits by reducing

truck transportation on highways in North America by more than 60,000 trucks annually, resulting in less congestion, less maintenance, and improved safety on those roads, as well as less noise pollution in the places where those trucks would have driven, and lowered air emissions, including greenhouse gas emissions.

CP and KCS are two of the seven Class I railroads in the United States, which are the largest railroads defined as having annual revenue greater than $250 million. CP’s rail lines run from the east coast to west coast in Canada, as well as parts of New York to central Pennsylvania. KCS’s lines run through the midwest, from Canada and southward beyond Mexico City. The KCS line follows along the Missouri/Kansas, Oklahoma/Arkansas, and Texas/Louisiana borders, all of which will see an increase in rail traffic.

Rail traffic would increase on certain rail line segments and would decrease on others. The largest change would occur on the CP mainline between Sabula, Iowa and Kansas City, Missouri, which would experience an increase in rail traffic of approximately 14.4 additional trains per day, on average. There do not propose to construct any new rail lines or abandon any rail lines.

OEA will be accepting comments on the scope of the EIS, including alternatives and issues to be analyzed in the EIS, until the close of the scoping comment period on December 17, 2021. OEA will hold six online public scoping meetings during the scoping comment period, as set forth in the NOI. The dates and times are found at the website given at the end of the article.

To view the NOI, or for more information on the environmental review process for the proposed acquisition or to submit a written comment, visit the Board-sponsored project website at CPKCSMergerEIS.com.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Politics 5

November 17, 2021

From the

State House of Representatives

State Senate

Right now, there are about the direction in which Arkan349 children and teens in sas had been heading: that Arkansas whose parents’ pachildren in foster care should rental rights have been terbe placed with family until minated and are currently they achieve permanency. The seeking a forever family. law includes reforms to help November is Nationkeep children safe with their al Adoption Month. It is a families and avoid the trauJohn Maddox matic experience of entering time to encourage others to learn about adoption and foster care. At the same time, recognize the many children who are the law stresses the importance of still waiting. children growing up in families and Recently, the Division of Chil- helps ensure children are placed in dren and Family Services (DCFS) the least restrictive, most family-like launched the Every Day Counts cam- setting to meet their needs when they paign as a reminder for people that do come into foster care. every day these children and teens The priority is to place children with spend in foster care is a day too long safe and appropriate relatives and ficbecause every day counts! tive kin. DCFS staff have worked hard The agency says the most signifi- over the last several years to ensure cant needs right now are families for children are placed with relatives and sibling groups and older teens. fictive kin when safe and appropriate, In the 2021 Regular Session, the with 41% of children placed with relGeneral Assembly passed Act 574, atives statewide as of September 30, which directed the House Committee 2021 as compared to the 28.1% of on Aging, Children and Youth, Leg- children who were placed with relaislative and Military Affairs, and the tives statewide as of March 30, 2019.

Senate Interim Committee on ChilWhile we continue our study and dren and Youth to conduct a study work to reduce the number of chilof the best practices for reducing the dren entering the foster care system, number of children in foster care. we encourage you to explore how As part of that study, members re- your family may be able to help. cently received a report from DCFS If you are thinking about adoption, on reducing the number of children DCFS is encouraging you to fill out in foster care. an application, go through the proArkansas became one of the first cess and take the training. states to implement the landmark As part of the Every Day Counts federal Family First Prevention Ser- campaign, Project Zero took on the vices Act. More commonly known as challenge of creating a short film Family First, it is the first major fed- about every child currently waiting. eral child welfare reform effort in de- Project Zero is a non-profit orgacades and impacts every piece of the nization with a mission to promote child welfare system. adoption through the foster care sysNow, in-home services providers tem with the ultimate goal of finding are using approved programs eligible a forever family for every child who for federal funding. These programs is waiting. emphasize safely preventing children You can find the short films and from entering DCFS custody or re- more information about each child unifying them with family as quickly on Project Zero’s Arkansas Heart as possible if out-of-home care is nec- Gallery. We’ve posted the link at aressary. kansashouse.org.

Family First changes also reinforced

Solar power is growing in sion regulates utilities, and popularity in Arkansas, in its rate cases and policy delarge part because of passage cisions are very complex. A of Act 464 of 2019.

Senate co-sponsor of Act 464 Last year solar energy accredited the chairman of the counted for six percent of the PSC with helping to shepelectric power generated in herd the bill through the legArkansas, according to the islature.

U.S. Energy Information Ad- Larry Teague As Act 464 was going ministration. That is 60 times through the legislative promore solar power than was generat- cess, an issue that had to be resolved ed in the state in 2015. was the impact on net-metering cusNationwide, the amount of elec- tomers. Those are customers who tricity generated from renewable re- generate their own electricity, somesources has quadrupled since 2011. times in excess of what they need.

Wind power and geothermal springs They send the excess power to the are other sources of renewable ener- electric utility and get credit for it. gy, but neither is growing in ArkanA point of contention between sas as fast as solar power. utilities and net-metering customers Act 464 allows third-party financ- is the value of the excess electricity ing of solar projects, which is espe- that the customer sends to the utilcially helpful to tax-exempt organi- ity’s power grid. zations and government entities that Utilities have fixed costs beyond the otherwise would not qualify for fed- expense of operating power plants. eral tax incentives for installing solar For example, they have to maintain panels. a power grid with transmission lines.

Colleges, universities, school dis- Those fixed costs are spread out to all tricts, counties, churches, prison the utility’s customers, both residenunits and non-profit organizations tial and industrial. have taken advantage of Act 464 to Act 464 allows net-metering cussign leasing agreements with third tomers to send electricity to the utilparties that install solar power sys- ity’s power grid. At the same time, it tems. allows utilities to take steps to preWhen the legislature passed Act vent inordinate shifts in their fixed 464 in 2019, Arkansas joined 26 oth- costs to other types of customers. er states that allowed third party fiThe legislature also promoted nancing of solar projects. more efficient energy use by passing Act 464 made another significant Act 507 of 2019, which allows govchange in regulations governing ernment entities to issue bonds for the production of electric power. It energy savings projects. School disraised the limit for commercial cus- tricts can choose to participate. tomers of electric utilities that have It allows energy performance consolar systems, from 300 kilowatts tracts to extend beyond 20 years if to 1,000 kilowatts. That provision the project is guaranteed to last more helped Senate co-sponsors of Act than 20 years, and if the project’s use464 recruit support from a range of ful life is more than 20 years. Many private companies. solar projects meet the criteria.

An estimated 16,000 Arkansans More than 9,000 jobs have been work in renewable energy, according created because of the incentives in to an estimate by a trade association the energy performance contract that represents solar power installers. program.

The state Public Service Commis-

From the

6 News

THE POLK COUNTY

November 17, 2021

Pulse

Regional Fatalaties A single-vehicle accident claimed the life of a Polk County man over the weekend.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 30-year-old Daniel Ray Roberts was traveling south on State Highway 88 in Polk County when his 2003 Chevy Trailblazer veered off the roadway and struck two trees with the front bumper of the vehicle. The vehicle came to a rest off the road.

The accident occurred around 7:30 on the night of Nov. 13.

Roberts was pronounced dead at the scene by Polk County Deputy Coroner Garrett Lundberg.

Road conditions were reported as clear and dry by the investigating state trooper.

The Arkansas State Police released information last week on a fatal accident that occurred in southern Polk County in late October.

According to the state police, 49-year-old Leatha Robey of Cove was eastbound on Polk County Road 16 approaching U.S. Highway 71 around 10:15 on Oct. 28. An investigation determined Robey’s 1997 Dodge truck failed to yield at the intersection, crossing into the path of an oncoming Freightliner semi-truck. The truck struck Robey’s vehicle, causing it to leave the highway and come to a final rest in the northbound ditch.

Robey was killed in the accident and a second individual was injured and transported to the Mena hospital.

Road and weather conditions at the time of the accident were reported by the investigating state trooper as wet and rainy.

Scott County authorities have requested special agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division to take the lead in investigating a Scott County shooting incident that claimed the life of a Fort Smith man the evening of Thursday, Nov. 10.

James Simmons Jr., 34, was pronounced dead at a Waldron hospital.

Sheriff ’s deputies responded to an armed disturbance call at 3220 Yearling Ridge Road south of Boles shortly after 11 p.m. Simmons had been shot inside the residence and transported to Waldron.

Simmons’ body will be examined by the Arkansas State Medical Examiner to determine the manner and cause of death.

Meanwhile, state police special agents have questioned the homeowner about the shooting incident.

No arrest in connection with the shooting incident has occurred.

An investigative case file will be submitted by the state police to the Scott County prosecuting attorney who will determine whether criminal charges related to the incident should be filed.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Obituaries 7

November 17, 2021

James Earl Simmons Jr. James Earl Simmons Jr., age 34, passed away November 11, 2021, in Waldron, Arkansas.

He was born February 11, 1987, in Bogalusa, Louisiana, to James Earl Simmons Sr. and Linda Gail Valentine.

Mr. Simmons is preceded in death by his grandmother, Susan Cameron; grandfather, James Cameron; uncle, Rick Cameron; stepfather, Charls Valentine; grandmother, Audrey Simmons and his paternal grandfather.

He is survived by his son, Taven James Simmons; father, James Earl Simmons Sr.; mother, Linda G. Valentine; brothers, Shawn McAllister, Timothy Creekmore, Jonathon McAllister; brother-in-law, Ryan Allen; sisters, Jackie Simmons, Elizabeth Simmons, Heather Peck; nephews, Ronald Arbuthnot, Sam Arbuthnot, Dakota Arbuthnot, Jacob Allen; niece, Madison Allen; aunts and uncles, Wendall Barnes and wife Nancy, Susan Russell and husband Randy; and aunt, Dicie Cole.

Memorial services for Mr. Simmons are pending. Cremation services are entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Nona Anita Davis

Nona Anita Davis, age 84, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Sunday, November 14, 2021, at her home in Mena, Arkansas.

She was born April 26, 1937, to Floyd Fountain and Dortha Sherman Fountain.

Ms. Davis was a paraprofessional for Mena schools, and she enjoyed singing, crocheting, and cooking. She was known for her ability to boss people around. She attended the Lakeview

Baptist Church in Mena, Arkansas.

Nona is survived by her children, Brenda Andrews and husband Rick, Karen Lance, Carla Nichols and husband Dean, Pam Neblick and husband Freddy, Mark Davis and wife Mary, David Davis and wife Chrystal, and Daniel Davis; grandchildren, Mike Lance and wife Tosha, Chris Lance and wife Annie, Meagan Pate and husband Nick, Matt Andrews and wife Deanna, Eric Andrews, Jared Gaston, Terra Frank, Kristy Hall and husband Charlie, Ashley Humphrey and husband Jonathan, Natalie Barton and husband Colten, Gus Nichols and wife Paxton, Karlie Humphrey, Phillip Neblick and wife Ashley, Tiffany Hill, Derek Davis and wife Lena, Joe Davis and wife Sharon, Tyler Davis, Kerry Davis, Dakota Davis and wife Delta, Hannah Davis and Donny Dear, Madison Davis, and Crystal, Isacc, Jazlyn, and Layne; brothers, Lee Fountain and wife Gaye; brother and sister-in-law, Larry Davis and wife Darla; 52 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other friends and family.

She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Terry Davis; sisters Ramona Payne; and the father of her children, Perry Davis.

Funeral services for Ms. Davis will be held Wednesday, November 17, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Mike Lance officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A visitation will be held Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at Beasley-Wood Funeral Home from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will be Ms. Davis’ grandsons.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Loretta Mae Isom

Mrs. Loretta Mae Isom, age 86, passed away, Saturday, November 13, 2021, in Mena, Arkansas. She was born June 9, 1935, in Vandervoort, Arkansas, to the late Vessie Arvel and Mandy Pauline Cooper Ralls.

Mrs. Isom was a factory worker by profession and was an avid seamstress who enjoyed quilting and sewing. Loretta loved cooking for her family and was known to be very altruistic and was always doing for others.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Vessie Arvel and Mandy Pauline Cooper Ralls; her husband, Everett Isom; 3 brothers, Waymon Ralls, J.D Ralls, and James Arvell Ralls; and by her sister, Sandra Batoon.

Mrs. Isom is survived by her children, Linda Ashcraft, and husband Rick of Cove, Arkansas, Sue Rogers and husband Bruce of Irving, Texas; grandchildren, Jason Rogers and wife Rhonda, Serenda Rogers, and Matthew Rogers; several nieces and nephews; great-grandchild, Freddy Rogers of Grand Prairie, Texas; sisters-in-law, Evaughn Ralls, and Jennie Ralls.

Services for Mrs. Isom will be held, Friday, November 19, 2021, at Beasley-Wood Chapel at 2:00 p.m., with Brother Nathan Sherer and Brother Mark Lyle officiating. Interment will follow at Nunley Cemetery, under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Visitation is general.

Pallbearers are Steve Phillips, Buddy Hooper, David Yandell, Jerry Ralls, Tommy Callahan and George Menezes Honorary Pallbearers are Bill Wells and John Aguirre.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

She is preceded in death by her parents; her son, Randy Richmond; and by a sister, Helen Dugan. She is survived by her husband Edsel “Gene” Richmond; son, Duane Richmond and wife Cindy; grandchildren, Shawna Ramos and husband Omar, Nikki Garrett, Jeff Richmond, Andrew Richmond and wife Rachel, and Dena Hamilton; great-grandchildren, Andrew Combs, Sevyn Richmond, Jeffery Richmond, Myranda Richmond, Trinaty Richmond, Francisco Ramos, Mateo Ramos, Nicolas Ramos, Nathaniel Ramos, Kade Garrett, Kinley Garret, Kylie Rayburn, and Sevyn Richmond; nephew, Larry Dugan; nieces, Brenda Parker and Belinda McKee. Funeral services for Mrs. Richmond will be held on, Thursday, November 18, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. in Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Stere Ellison officiating. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Helean Lynn Richmond, age 89, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, November 13, 2021, in Mena. She was born August 25, 1932, in Old Dallas, Arkansas, to the late Oley V. and Lela I. (Harrison) Beasley.

Mrs. Richmond was the bookkeeper for Rich Mountain VOTEC school from 1973 to 1992 and in that time, it became Rich Mountain Community College, and she was very proud of the fact that she was the first employee/bookkeeper for the school. After retirement she became a homebody and devoted her time to taking care of her grandkids.

~Thomas Moore

Helean Lynn Richmond

“Earth hath no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.”

8 News

Utility companies say natural gas customers are expected to see a significant increase in prices this winter.

CenterPoint Energy announced last week the average residential customer’s bill is likely to increase by 42 percent, from $92 a month to $131. The cost increase is being attributed to an overall increase in energy prices.

In a press release, the company said this increase assumes that a customer will use the same total of natural gas this year as last year. Company officials stated “the actual bill impact will vary by customer depending on the size and age of the home, number of gas appliances, number of people in the household, thermostat settings, levels of insulation and other factors.”

At this time the company has not shared expected cost increases for businesses.

CenterPoint Energy is inform-

Pulse

November 17, 2021

Natural gas customers will see significant cost hike this winter

By Patrick Massey

THE POLK COUNTY

ing customers who may have trouble meeting the higher prices should contact the company as soon as possible to explore payment plans and other assistance options. Customers can contact the company to set up monthly payment plans or seek payment assistance by calling 1-800-9927552. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP, also provides utility assistance to Arkansans.

For residents of Polk County, the administering agency is the Arkansas River Valley Area Council. Visit arvacinc.org for more information or call (479) 2195292.

Citing a report by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the Arkansas Democrat Gazette reported U.S. households are likely to see an average 30 percent increase in the cost of heating their home this winter.

That’s an average of $736 per household, or $172 higher than last year.

Around Town The Cossatot Senior Center will be having a Thanksgiving meal Nov. 20, from 11:30am - 6pm. Donations accepted. Doors will open at 10am for Bingo. Music will begin in the afternoon.

The Mena Regional Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary will host its annual Christmas Breakfast at the Mena Regional Hospital cafeteria, Thursday, Dec. 2, 7-10 a.m.

The meals are available for dine-in or carry out; the cost is donation only. MRHS employees will be able to have their donation deducted from their payroll if they prefer.

Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 am - Noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need.

We kindly ask that non-vaccinated individuals wear masks.

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

The Mena Area Ministerial Alliance will once again host their Annual Community Thanksgiving Drive-Through Dinner! The event will begin at 5 PM on Sunday, November 21st at First Assembly of God, 2111 Sutherland Avenue in Mena! The menu includes turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, roll and dessert. Please follow traffic directions as you get in line for your to-go-meals! The Mena Area Ministerial Alliance wishes everyone a most blessed and happy Thanksgiving!

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3pm Sundays, at 5pm. Tuesdays and at 8pm

Saturdays at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-216-3786.

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

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

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

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

Reynolds Gardner Community Men’s Breakfast every Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Mena, 8:00 a.m. (full breakfast for small donation). All men from the community are invited to attend.

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 479-2439600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

by Richie Lawry The air has the crisp feel of fall, and the stars are bright overhead as I load windshields into the back of my little S-10 shop truck. I have a full load this morning, with every slot in my rack filled. When I have loaded everything into my truck, I drive to the gas station to fill up and then head back to Mena.

I have been making two or three trips a week to De Queen to pick up my auto glass for the past several months. My supplier no longer delivers to the Mena area but does deliver to De Queen.

During the night, they drop off my order at a storage unit that I have rented.

On the days I make the trip to pick up my glass, I leave early in the morning to be back at my shop in time to open before 8 a.m.

Today as I leave De Queen, it is already twilight. Even though the sun isn’t up yet, its light filters through the atmosphere and gently illuminates the landscape. As I drive, a rosy hue begins to creep across the morning sky. Golden fingers of sunlight begin to appear.

As I round a corner, there is a large open pasture to the east. Suddenly the sky is ablaze with the fire of the rising sun, casting long shadows on the ground. Soon the sun peaks out from behind the tree line. I see the first rays of the sun fall on the earth. Before my eyes, the clouds become lit with a fabulous, colorful light as the rising sun announces the coming of a new day. I pull over to the side of the road and get out to take a photo.

It is the first sunrise I have seen for a while. My schedule hasn’t changed, but my perception of time has. Daylight Saving Time has ended until next spring, and last Sunday, we turned our clocks backward one hour. The intriguing thing about Daylight Saving Time is that we aren’t changing time. It is simply our perception of time. We aren’t changing how long the sun remains in the sky, and we aren’t changing the

November 17, 2021

Perception of Time

24 hours in a day. We’re simply changing what answer the clock gives us.

The new time on my clock means that I witnessed the sunrise on my morning drive back from De Queen instead of driving back in the dark. With the time change comes a new perception of my surroundings. I can see everything clearly as I go through the countryside.

With the sunrise, the leaves of the trees glow in the warm morning light. The branches of each tree spread out with glorious fall colors.

I had made this drive just a few days ago and had seen nothing. But today, the beauty of the sunrise and the magnificent fall colors speaks to my soul.

“The God of gods, the mighty Lord himself, has spoken! He shouts out over all the people of the earth in every brilliant sunrise and every beautiful sunset, saying, ‘Listen to me!’” Psalms 50:1 (TPT) I am happy to be driving in the warmth of the morning light and am enjoying the beauty of the landscape around me, but in the back of my mind comes the nagging realization that tonight when I leave work, it will already

be dark. As much as I enjoyed this morning, I am not looking forward to it getting dark so early.

It’s interesting when you think about it. My perception of time changed. Because of a predetermined concept, we all turned our clocks back an hour and began to function in this new time.

And our perception changed. We didn’t change any physical thing. “It is the Lord who created the stars, the Pleiades and Orion. He turns darkness into morning and day into night.” Amos 5:8 (NLT) The sun comes up at the same time, but we perceive that time differently. We arrange our schedules around this new perception of time.

I am often frustrated by my lack of control over my life. It makes me wonder how my life would become more enjoyable if I changed my perception.

What if I looked at my situation in a new light? What would happen if I turned back the clock of my perception?

Changing our perception does not mean ignoring the hardships of this life. We all have difficulties. We all spend time driving in the dark. But Je-

Joke of the Week:

Sherlock Holmes loves to eat at Mexican restaurants because they give him case ideas.

Faith 9 sus says, “I am the light of the world.

The one who follows Me will no longer walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 (TLV) We will still grieve over things lost and fight against injustice. We will still have troubles in our lives. But we can look at these things in a way that does not destroy our emotions or our stability. When we change our perception of this life in terms of God’s love for us, we see our struggles in a new light. This idea takes time to become a reality. Like our bodies adjusting whenever there’s a time change, our minds and spirits need time to grow used to new perceptions.

It won’t happen overnight.

You can start changing your perception by remembering that God is in control. We aren’t in charge of the sun or the earth, but God is. He won’t leave you forsaken when you feel things are beyond your reach. Trust in God’s plan when you struggle with desiring a situation to turn out a specific way. Trust in His goodness. You can have the same security as the Psalmist who wrote, “When I felt my feet slipping, you came with your love and kept me steady. And when I was burdened with worries, you comforted me and made me feel secure.” Psalms 94:18,19 (CEV) Gentle Reader, “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NLT) We can have peace and joy trusting God instead of trying to control everything ourselves. We may not have the power to change all things, but we can change our perception of all things. Changing our perception can help us remember that God is in control. He says, “Stop your striving and recognize that I am God. I will be exalted over the nations!

I will be exalted over the earth!” Psalms 46:10 (NET) Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

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

10 Veterans Day

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

Veterans Day 2021 memorial presentation and appreciation luncheon Photo by Jodi Croft

Mena Mayor Seth Smith (standing left) looks on as the American flag flies virtually at the Ouachita Center (UARM).

American veterans being honored for their service to our country.

The Acorn High School Wrestling Team helped serve food and showed their support at the luncheon.

Thank you, United States Veterans, for your service and all you have done to protect our rights and freedom.

394-1938

TIRES • BRAKES • CUSTOM EXHAUST • SHOCKS & STRUTS

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

Cortez Copher, James K. Polk DAR Regent, and Ann Garrett, Vice Regent, with U.S. Army Veteran, Sergeant Thomas Earhart, who was drafted into the Army in 1943. They attended the annual Veterans Day memorial presentation and appreciation luncheon at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain (UARM) Nov. 11. Earhart will be 100 next year and plans to ride the DAR Float again.

(Photo by Kay Dye)

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BAYWASH CAR WASH $10 CAR WASH FOR $5

WENDYʼS LARGE BREAKFAST BACONATOR COMBO FOR $5

THE SHOP $45 UNLIMITED $ TANNING FOR $25

TRANSCENDENCE ENERGY & $ BODYWORK $60 MASSAGE FOR $45 $30 FACIAL FOR $20

AND A VARIETY OF BRANSON TICKETS

Veterans Day 11

12 News

November 17, 2021

ANDERSON involved with Toys for Tots. In 1991, the continued from page1 U.S. Marine Corps founded Toys for Tots

sault on the coast of South Korea. During my time overseas, I spent time in Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines and Australia. I was also privileged to visit the island of Iwo Jima. I spent the remainder of my time in the corps assigned to the 2nd Light Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion in Yuma, Arizona.”

After coming home to Huffman, Texas, Ed worked in power distribution. Upon retiring, he opted to finish out his days here in Mena.

While in Mena, Anderson had a life-changing crisis—liver failure. He desperately needed a transplant. According to Healthline.com, in order to get a liver transplant, it requires being on a waiting list of an estimated 14,000 people. Miraculously, Anderson persevered and received the liver transplant, changing his life forever. In 2017, he decided to dedicate the rest of his retired life to servitude.

“That’s such a grace from God,” Anderson said. “I feel it’s my responsibility to give back to the community and Polk County.”

It’s at this point that Anderson became

to collect new unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children at Christmas. Anderson is now the coordinator for the Polk County region.

All the donations made to Toys for Tots stays within Polk County. They give each child three gifts, a book, and stocking stuffers. In 2020, the region collected 714 toys and around $1,400 for families in need. They served 531 kids from approximately 300 families.

“It’s a joy on distribution day. Sometimes the children come to pick up the toys. It’s great to see the look of anticipation on their faces,” Anderson said. “That’s what Toys for Tots is about—giving underprivileged children the joy and hope of Christmas.”

To donate to the Toys for Tots campaign, you can go to several drop-off locations including Union Bank in Mena, Wickes and Cove, Freedom Pharmacy, Arvest Bank and more. For monetary donations or to get involved, you can contact Ed Anderson at tftmenaar@gmail.com or donate online at toysfortots.org/donate/ forms/simple/Default.aspx.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

News 13 “The Bert” Raises Over $10,000 for UARM Foundation

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

(1st Flight – 1st Place): Steve Bell, John Ponder, Burl Collinsworth, and Mike Hobson (Submitted photo)

(2nd flight – 1st place): Danny and Debbie Miner, Camden Broderson, and Jeff Cunningham (Submitted photo)

Morning Coffee for your

Ears!

The annual Bert Hensley Memorial Golf Tournament, also known as “The Bert,” successfully generated over $10,000 for the UA Rich Mountain Foundation. It was held October 23, 2021 at the pristine Glenwood Country Club Golf Course, despite two postponements due to weather.

A total of 28 teams competed in the beloved 4-man scramble that includes other fun contests throughout the course.

Results from the 1st flight: 1st Place – Steve Bell, Mike Hobson, John Ponder, and Burl Collinsworth 2nd Place – Mike Lewis, Anthony Lewis, Chuck Rummel, Charlie Dubois 3rd Place – Doug Roberts, Better Roberts, Denise Hutt, David Young

Rocha, Colton Quebedeaux, Alex Rocha 3rd Place – Gary Albrecht, Ethan Peters, Brandon Peters, Brody Peters

Results from the 2nd flight : 1st Place – Danny Miner, Camden Broderson, Debbie Miner, Jeff Cunningham 2nd Place – Jay Quebedeaux, Max

This was the 10th consecutive year for the golf tournament that raises funds to support the college’s mission to provide transformative education to all learners.

• Longest Putt – Brody Peters • Longest Drive – Michael Wood • Straightest Drive – Kyle Carpenter • Closest to the Pin (hole 7) – Charlie Dubois • Longest Drive – Charlie Dubois • Pitch in the Pool – Steven Hubbard • Closest to the Pin (hole 17) – Justin Romine • Closest the Wavy Line – Mike Hobson • Putting Contest – Phillip Wilson

14 Humor

November 17, 2021

Ho g s p o r e Ne w s : Honeybee hive heist halted

By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson I seen Hardy Barkins working at the hardware store, I sez, “You look like you’ve shed some considerable pounds there.”

“Yep, I cut out the doughnuts, pasta, and pizza. I got a weigh to go before I can ever do ice cream again. I did hear an encouraging update from Doc Spicer. He said that I was now officially Under Obese.”

Somebody has been stealing honey from beekeepers. Sheriff Riley Combover set up a plan to catch the Pooh wannabe. He asked beekeeper McComber Owens to tell everybody that McComber would be out of town for a week. The sheriff positioned a stakeout near the beehives. He installed a wire where he could make one of the hives

fall and get the residents real angry.

Riley didn’t have to wait long. The honey snatcher showed himself right quick. He already had warm waffles and a bucket of butter with him.

Riley explained what happened, “I pulled that wire and watched the hive smack the ground while a thousand bees swarmed out into the night air.

This is what them little buzzers train for. Pretend Pooh tore out into the woods. Course, I couldn’t see through the clouds of beefuddled workers, but I heard screaming and yelping that I knew weren’t coming from the flying critters.

After the culprit fled, I waited for thirty minutes before I searched for him. I figured the bees were still busy, as they always are, and there was this sack of warm waffles and a bucket of butter left behind. I poured honey

from the unoccupied hive into the bag of warm waffles and added gobs of butter from the bucket. It was the best tampering of evidence I ever did.

I found the swollen suspect an hour later in the woods. I took the perp back to jail. I didn’t know who it was, so we’re gonna have to stick around for three weeks for the swelling to go down to recognize him. I’m pleased at the outcome. It was one of this office’s better sting operations.”

I sez, “Why did you call him a perp?”

“It’s an abbreviation. It’s short for perple, which was the color of the plumped-up prisoner.”

Mumford Pickens says, “The casino in the next county has banned Smitty Whippert for his own good. They felt that it wasn’t fair to let a known masochist play at the blackjack table. Smitty would sit there and say to the dealer, ‘Hit me, hit me again, hit me again.’”

Question for comments: Do you think beekeepers know how to beehive themselves?

Contact bobsimpson1947@yahoo. com. You know you wanna.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

Outdoors 15

OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL First-aid outdoors

By Trey Youngdahl (Fact checked by Jacob Ezell: EMT-B, Southwest EMS)

Steve Stillwell, who normally writes this wonderful column, and I have worked together for a while now. We work together for The Pulse as well as recording his podcast, The Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival Show, which you should definitely listen to if you haven’t yet. If you’ve listened to the show, you know I am a trained EMT. Because of this, Steve has asked me to write his column this week about something I feel is often overlooked when thinking of survival situations—how to build a first-aid kit for camping, hiking, hunting, etc.

There are two kinds of situations to be prepared for when in the field: medical emergencies and trauma emergencies.

Medical emergencies could be anything from a heart attack to motion sickness.

Trauma can be classified by things such as a cut, or even a broken bone.

So where do you start? Personally, I recommend getting a pre-made firstaid kit and adding more materials that you’ll need in the field, personalizing it for your individual needs. While more expensive kits like IFAK will be of a higher quality, cheaper ones are available at Walgreens, Target and other bigbox stores.

My personal favorite low-end kit is the “Adventure Medical Kits” one that you can get for pretty cheap in the camping/outdoors section of Walmart.

This is a good place to start because it comes with an acceptable amount of medical supplies, as well as basic first aid and survival instructions that can be used as a reference for people who aren’t trained in medical care. It also comes with a couple of survival tools, like a rescue whistle and a compass. In case of emergency care, I would also recommend keeping a signal mirror, glow sticks, flare, or flashlight with an emergency flash setting along with your kit. Remember that three flashes is the universal signal for distress!

Something to note: all emergency care mentioned is only temporary before you go to the hospital to receive better care. This is not an EMS instruction manual. These are materials to keep you alive until you can receive care from a hospital. Please educate yourself and familiarize yourself with the materials before using them. Also, before going on a hiking, camping, hunting trip, etc., be sure to let somebody know what you’re doing and where you are, especially if you’re going alone!

Trauma supplies This pre-made pack comes with 10 antiseptic wound wipes, which are very important for disinfecting wounds. I, added Neosporin cream to my smaller kit and peroxide to my larger kit for better disinfection. Also recommended would be distilled or sterile water. You do NOT want your cuts or scrapes to get infected!

Something that may be overlooked when building your medkit is a pair of small forceps, which is included in this starter kit. This is good for picking out thorns and briars, but also possible small rocks and pebbles in the event of a fall on gravel. The tweezers could also be used to pull out the stinger of a wasp or bee. It is important to remove the stinger promptly as leaving it in could result in more venom being released, causing more pain and swelling.

Treatment for this includes washing it with soap and water, or the previously mentioned antiseptic wipes. Personally, I added after-bite ointment to my kit for these instances.

It also comes with several bandages, large and small. It is important to have a wide variety of bandages in the field for the several different wounds you could encounter. There is also sterile dressing gauze and medical tape included in the pack, which are very useful in dressing wounds. When you do dress your wounds, be sure that there is plenty of

See FIRST AID continued on page 22

First aid requires more than a bandage, pain medicine and bug spray. How prepared are you in the event of an emergency or in need of medical attention? (photo by Trey Youngdahl)

16 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

James K. Polk DAR travels The Santa Fe Trail Submitted by Cortez Copher

across Kansas. Now, more than 100 years later, all the DAR markers on the Santa Fe Trail proudly stand.

Carolyn was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from Regent Cortez Copher.

The James K. Polk NSDAR Chapter was entertained by member, Carolyn Hanna, during the October meeting at the First Baptist 9th Street Ministries.

She presented a story about the Santa Fe Trail in celebration of its 200th Anniversary.

In 1902, Kansas Daughters of the American Revolution began their dream of service to Kansas history by kicking off a campaign to place markers along the Santa Fe Trail. By 1906, they started marking the trail Carolyn Hanna displays her certificate of appreciation alongside Cortez Copher.

Kinnun honored

(Photo by Kay Dye)

The James K. Polk DAR Chapter also honored Registrar and Honorary Regent Dotty Kinnun at the October meeting. She was a charter member of James K Polk Chapter in 2009 and served over six years as regent. With her awesome genealogy skills as registrar, she has increased the chapter member number to over 40.

James K. Polk Chapter Officers: (Standing ) Linda Evans, Chaplain; Deonna Williams, Treasurer; Shelly Collins, Historian; Brenda Cunningham, Recording Secretary; Ann Garrett, First Vice Regent, and Cortez Copher, Regent. (Seated) Dotty Kinnun, Honorary Regent, and Registrar.

(Photo by Kay Dye)

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Puzzles 17

November 17, 2021

11.17.21

11.17.21

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 11.10.21

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hello! My name is Roscoe and I am a super cool dude. I am just over 6 years old and weigh in at about 40 pounds. I came to the shelter in pretty rough shape. However, I am looking better and better every day. I am good with other dogs and cats! I would need to be kept on a heartworm preventative to ensure my best health. I need to be pre-adopted. Please contact the shelter to find out the complete pre-adoption process. I am a bit shy at first with new people. However, I have never shown any aggression. I am really a sweet boy in need of a loving family who will go slowly. Come out and meet me today!

All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package.

All animals at the Humane Society of the Ouachitas are current on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

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

18 Classifieds

November 17, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES CLASSIFIEDS

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Call Wendell’s Tree Service (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328.

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1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Updated System Installed at Mena Airport

By Trey Youngdahl Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport is replacing their Outer Marker Beacon with a more updated GPS system.

The Outer Marker Beacon (OMB), also known as the non-directional beacon, transmits a signal so pilots can establish their exact location in relation to the end of the runway. In order to lift off, first the pilot will use other radio signals, their compass, and their altimeter to determine they are in alignment with the runway and at the right altitude to enter the final approach. When they over fly the beacon, an audible signal is heard and an annunciator lights-up in the airplane.

Then, the pilot knows he or she is directly over installation at Board Camp and it’s safe to start the descent into Mena at a defined rate. On aeronautical charts, this point is called “FENCH”, or the initial approach fix,”IAF.” The new approach will simply use a GPS fix that’s further east of the airport and at a higher altitude for the IAF. This update will help overcome two shortcomings with the old system. The higher

altitude of the new IAF will enable the pilots to be able to communicate with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Memphis Center. This is who pilots on approach to Mena communicate with to ensure the airspace is clear. The VHF radios used for this communication are usually unable to reach Memphis and vice-versa at lower altitudes. In addition, at higher altitudes the aircraft can be seen on the FAA radar screen. So, pilots can hear and talk to air traffic control before they enter the approach and can be seen on radar.

“Several pilots have expressed to me the uneasy feeling of flying at night in zero visibility conditions at 3000 ft. msl (mean sea level) at night between the Shady mountains and Rich Mountain.

So, they are pleased with all this,” Mena Intermountain Municipal Airport Manager Fred Ogden said. “Missed approaches should also be less stressful with new procedures.

“It is a fact that GPS based navigation is replacing ground based navaids,” Ogden said. “They are now considered obsolete.

This is a sign of the times.”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 17, 2021

History 19

Ned Christie: Guilty or Innocent?

Ray Shelley If I said to you, “NeDe WaDe,” you would probably load up your right arm and take a swing at me—unless you spoke the Cherokee language and knew a little history of your heritage. You would know that NeDe WaDe was the name of Ned Christie, a Cherokee whose death from gunshot wounds on November 3, 1892, was the ultimate criminal injustice.

December 14, 1852, Christie was born at Wauhillau, Goingsnake District, Cherokee Nation (present-day Oklahoma). As a young boy, Christie enjoyed stickball; he was also the local marble champion. Growing up, Christie also enjoyed learning to play the fiddle. As a young man, he had developed his playing skill to become a top-rated fiddle player. Christie also learned the blacksmith and gunsmith trade, becoming very proficient at both.

In 1885, elected to the Tribal Senate, Christie opposed giving land to the federal government to build a railroad through the territory. Although wellliked by his fellow Cherokee, he was developing enemies because he was concerned about protecting the Cherokee National Sovereignty. He was also known for his hot temper, especially when drinking whiskey.

On May 3, 1887, United States Deputy Marshal Dan Maples and his posse (including Dan’s son, Sam) headed toward Indian Territory with several warrants to arrest those who violated the federal law of selling alcohol in the region. The head of the warrant list was Bud Trainor, a well-known whiskey peddler with a violent nature.

Maples made camp at Spring Branch Creek near Tahlequah. After an uneventful day of searching for Trainor, Maples and posse member George Jefferson were heading back to camp after visiting friends in Tahlequah. Maples was shot from ambush while crossing the creek near his camp. He lived throughout the night and died the following day.

The other deputies and posse at camp had four suspects in mind: Bud Trainor,

Charles Bobcat, John Parris and Ned Christie. They found Trainor, Bobcat, and Parris. Christie eluded their dragnet. The three were transported to Fort Smith, where Parris told authorities he saw Christie shot Dan Maples. A murder warrant issued for Christie led to a fiveyear cat and mouse game between Christie and the U.S. Deputy Marshal and posse that ended with Christie’s death.

According to Cherokee National and Preservation Officer Catherine Foreman Gray, “Christie offered to turn himself in if Federal Judge Isaac Parker would allow him to post bail. His request was denied, so Chrisie spent the next five years hiding in Wauhillau, in what is now Adair County.”

My Friend Cody Faber (Fort Smith National Park Ranger/Volunteer Coordinator/Historian) told me, “Christie, although not an angel, was wrongly accused of crimes that occurred during his five years evading the law.”

During the first two years, several attempts to capture Christie came up empty. He was always alerted to law enforcement activity in the area, and Christie would hide in the woods until they left.

Finally, U.S. Deputy Marshal Heck Thomas and his posse found Christie at home. They surrounded the cabin and demanded his surrender. The answer was a shot from inside the cabin into the midst of the posse.

The firefight continued for several hours. Eventually, the posse decided to set the outhouse on fire close to the cabin, hoping the smoke from the fire would force Christie into the open. Unfortunately, the cabin caught fire. Christie’s wife, Peggy, and approximately 16-yearold son, James escaped into the woods.

The wife evaded being shot, but the son was wounded. James would be brutally murdered eight months later.

Deputy Thomas decided Ned Christie had died in the fire, so he and the posse left. But friends and family had heard the shooting and came to check it out.

They were able to recuse Ned, who had been shot in the face. They hid him and nursed him back to health.

Ned Christie, an imposing Cherokee from the Keetowah band, stood 6 feet, 4inches. Unjustly branded an outlaw, he went to war against the federal government, U.S. Marshals and posses for five years.

When Ned recovered, he rebuilt his cabin a mile away from the one he lost.

The massive walls were two logs, thick lined with 2 by 4-inch oak. It was known as “Ned’s Fort Mountain.”

Another attempt was made to capture Christie by U.S. Deputy Marshal Bass Reeves and posse. Reeves didn’t have any better luck than deputy Thomas.

With lots of bullets exchanged and two posse men wounded, Reeves gave up the fight.

Finally, on November 2, 1892, U.S. Marshal Evitt D. Nix had enough of Christie’s five-year streak of evading the law. He ordered deputy Paden Tolbert, Gideon “Cap” White, and a 16-to-25man posse to capture Christie. One of the posse men selected was Dan Maples son, Sam. He coincidentally was at the Spring Creek camp when his dad was shot.

While White was getting ammunition and supplies ready, Tolbert went to Fort Scott (Kansas) and borrowed a cannon that fired 3-pound bullet shape projectiles. This was the first time a cannon was used for law enforcement.

The posse surrounded Christie’s cabin and called for his surrender. Christie an-

swered with gunfire. 2000 spent rounds and 38 cannon shots bounced off the fort-like cabin. The posse placed dynamite at the corner of the cabin, which created a large hole. They then set the cabin on fire. Christie ran out to avoid being burnt and was met with an array of bullets.

As Christie lay dead, Sam Maples emptied his revolver into him.

In 1819, Freedman Richard Humphrey, a former slave adopted into the Cherokee Nation, claimed he witnessed Bud Trainor ambush deputy Maple.

Humphrey related he was returning home from his blacksmith job and saw Trainor standing behind a tree; then he observed Maples and Jefferson walking close to where Trainor was concealed.

Trainor fired a pistol at Maples and fled.

The reason Humphrey gave for not divulging this information sooner is he feared for his life. Now that all the principles in Maples’s murder were gone, he wanted to clear his conscience. Humphrey was 87 years old at the time he informed the authorities.

Guilty or Innocent? Who knows?

Most historians tend to believe Humphrey’s story!

20 Police

November 17, 2021

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

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG November 8, 2021 As a result of a traffic stop, Shaun Gunn, 35 of Cove was arrested on charges of Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, Careless and Prohibited Driving and Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License.

Charles Morgan, 44 of Mena was arrested on Felony Warrants for Theft, Criminal Conspiracy and Criminal Trespass.

Deputies responded to a report of Theft of Property from a walk-in complainant.

Zachary Abner, 29 of Watson, OK was arrested on Misdemeanor Warrants for Failure to Appear, Criminal Trespass and Violation of a no Contact Order.

November 9, 2021 Johnny Webb, 41 of Mena was arrested by an officer with Probation/Parole on a Parole Hold.

November 10, 2021 Deputies were dispatched to an address on Ponderosa Lane near Mena in reference to a Theft.

Deputies were dispatched to an altercation on Hwy 8 W near Mena. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Carrie Bass, 44 of Mena was arrested on a Felony Warrant for Probation Violation.

Deputies were dispatched to an address on Polk 117 near Acorn in reference to a domestic dispute. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies responded to a report of a stolen gun from a residence on Wild Rose

Lane near Acorn.

November 11, 2021 No reports were filed.

November 12, 2021 Austin McCulley, 27 of Hatfield was arrested on two charges of Third Degree Domestic Battery and two charges of Endangering the Welfare of a Minor.

Officers responded to a report of Harassment from a walk-in complainant.

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

Deputies responded to a report of a stolen vehicle.

Deputies responded to a report of a sexual assault.

Deputies responded to a vehicle window being broken at a property on Polk 58 near Board Camp.

Deputies responded to a report of a Residential Burglary at a residence on Polk 414 near Hatfield.

November 13, 2021 No reports were filed.

November 14, 2021 Elizabeth Trusley, 28 of DeQueen was arrested on a Felony Warrant for Probation Violation.

Cheyenne Smith, 27 of Mena was arrested on two Felony Failure to Appear Warrants.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked 3 vehicle accidents this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates, with 13 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

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ule 6 Controlled Substance after a traffic stop on Gilham Avenue.

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

A report of possession of schedule 4 controlled substance was taken afNovember 7 A report of dog running at large ter a traffic stop on Janssen Avenue.

James Lane, 42, was served with was taken at a residence on Lisa two warrants at the police departWay. A report of disorderly conduct ment. was taken from a walk-in comNovember 10 plainant.

No reports.

Matthew Miller, 39, was served with two warrants at a residence on November 11 Dickson Road.

A report of theft was taken at a residence on Pine Avenue.

November 8 Kayla Irons, 34, was charged with A report of harassment was taken Domestic Battery 3rd and Disorderat James’ Food.

A report of criminal mischief was ly Conduct after a disturbance call taken at a residence on Casey Way. to a residence on 1st Street.

A report of theft by receiving and a stolen vehicle was recovered at November 12 A death investigation report was Price Mobile Homes. taken at a residence on Midland A report of theft of a vehicle and harassment was taken from a walk- Drive.

Justin Close, 34, was served with in complainant.

A report of theft was taken from a a warrant at the police department. walk-in complainant.

Ricky Roberts, 29, was served November 13 Brianna Ramirez, 22, was served with a warrant at the police departwith a warrant at the police department. ment.

A report of theft of property November 9 (shoplifting) was taken at Walmart.

Whitney Reynolds, 31, was charged with Possession of Sched-

MENA POLICE REPORTS

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November 17, 2021

Sports 21

Acorn senior boys reign Bearcats cross-country

Back-to-back cross-country champions

Cossatot River Basketball (Girls) Nov. 19: CRHS @ Horatio

Acorn Basketball (Boys) Nov. 19: Oden @ Acorn

The Acorn Tigers defended their 2020 State Championship, taking the 2021 Class AA State Cross Country Championships held at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs on Friday, Nov. 5.

The Tigers entered the race trying to defend last year’s championship. They were ranked second all year to the No. 1 seed, Quitman Bulldogs and fell to

of 18:56.10 and Jake Lyle in 14th with a time of 19:01.14. All five with their personal best run on race day. Justice Neufeld, Isaac Tedder and Caden Tarkinton were also named to the AllState Team.

The next group of Acorn runners were led by junior Sky Carmack in 31st place, sophomores: Noah Holland in 44th place and Reed McGee in 49th place, all running their personal best. Senior Riley Weddle in 78th place.

This race was Acorn’s sixth State Cross-Country title. Justice Neufeld will be representing Acorn and Arkansas in the ArkanThe Acorn senior boys successfully defended their 2020 title, sas-Oklahoma winning the 2021 2A XC State Championship. (submitted photo) All-Star Meet to be held at third behind Melbourne. Entering the Rogers High School on Saturday, Nov. race, Acorn senior Justice Neufeld had 13. Isaac Tedder, Caden Tarkinton and been dominating the cross-country Sky Carmack were invited to the River races this fall and was ranked the top Valley All-Star race to be held in Mansrunner in Class AA and one of the top field on Saturday, Nov. 13. runners in the State.

The best individual race of the day The race was held on a perfect fall was in Class AA Senior Girls compeday. The race started with Acorn’s se- titions. Miriam Garcia, Oden High nior Justice Neufeld taking the lead at School exchange student from Spain the gun and was never challenged on running for Acorn, ran in her first the hilly 5k course. He ran a course best cross-country season this year. She batin 16:48.95...the race was for the team tled with the defending champion and title. Quitman and Melbourne took an came up just a little short in a fantastic early lead in the team race. At the half- run for second place with a personway mark, Acorn junior Isaac Tedder, al best time of 20:29.22. Miriam was seniors: Damian Bohlman, Jake Lyle named to the All-Star team. Running and freshman Caden Tarkinton were second for Acorn was Bella Tedder moving up fast. With one mile to go, with a time of 22:37.44 for 13th place. they were poised to move past the com- Both Miriam and Bella will represent petition and took the race all the way Acorn in the River Valley All-Star Meet through to the finish with all five rac- to be held at Mansfield on Nov. 13. Finers in the top 15. After Neufeld, Tedder ishing third for Acorn was sophomore came up with a personal best in 18:04.7 Sophie Strasner and fourth for Acorn for eighth place, followed by Caden was junior Blanca Sanchez, exchange Tarkington in 10th place with a time of student from Spain.

18: 29.4, Bohlman in 13th with a time

finishes ninth overall

The Mena Bearcat Cross Country Team competed in the 4A State Championship at Oaklawn in Hot Springs on Friday, Nov. 5. The team finished ninth overall, Cooper Plunkett & Tre McMellon were All State performers. Plunkett finished 15th & McMellon finished 18th.

Fairless signs letter of intent with OBU

Mena High School Senior Grayson Fairless signed her letter of intent this morning to attend college at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia after high school graduation, with plans of playing for the OBU Tigers women’s basketball team.

479.394.4248

104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344

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November 17, 2021

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The starter kit’s medication has the accordingly.

FIRST AID plied effectively, it will stop the pulse of If you camp or hike with others often, continued from page15 who it was applied to. The lack of blood previously mentioned triple antibiotic

pressure and gauze on the area, to prevent excessive bleeding. I would recommend adding gauze to the kit, as it is very versatile. Quick-Clot hemostatic gauze is useful in trauma situations, as it stops or slows bleeding. For smaller cuts and scrapes, I added NewSkin liquid bandage to my kit. I highly recommend this product. When applied, this helps sanitize the wound and essentially becomes an extra layer of skin over a cut or scrape, making it more comfortable than bandages. It is also good for blisters!

For a simple and easily packed splint, I would recommend the SAM Splint. It is both rigid and flexible and can be cut down to size to fit your pack.

Something that is very important to add to the kit is a tourniquet. Educate yourself on how to use a tourniquet (or, better yet, receive training) before employing the use of one in the field.

Something important to remember: always write down the time the tourniquet was applied. If a tourniquet is ap-

flow could cause permanent damage to the appendage. This is important knowledge for EMS personnel and medical staff to know. When applying a tourniquet, remember to keep it 2 inches above the wound or 2 inches above the joint. Never apply a tourniquet on a joint, as this will render it ineffective.

If you are not sure where to apply the tourniquet, apply it as high as you can— into the armpit or groin areas.

An alternative to stop bleeding (albeit not as effective as a tourniquet), is something called Hemostatic powder (also known as antihemorrhagic powder). For larger bleeds, this powder can be applied directly to the wound and it sort of clumps together sealing the wound. The brand that I buy is called Stops-Bleeding. It’s available over the counter, FDA cleared and even endorsed by Lou Ferrigno, who’s quoted saying, “Every person needs to have this product.”

Medical supplies

ointment and after-bite sting and itch relief. I also keep some topical cooling gel and sunscreen in my kit. It contains aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen for pain relief, but I pack BC Powder in mine because it’s what I prefer to use over the pills.

It also comes stocked with an antihistamine called diphenhydramine (Benadryl), but my preference for allergies is loratadine.

It’s important to note that these are all over-the-counter medications, meaning you can get them at pretty much any drugstore or department store. If you have any prescription pills, especially for emergencies like nitroglycerin tablets for heart attacks or epinephrine for allergies, it is imperative you pack those.

When packing medications, be sure to check the expiration dates of your medications and check the temperature range. Epinephrine pens, for instance, will be ineffective if they get overheated, so be sure to keep medications stored

I would also recommend you get a PFM (pocket face-mask) and learn CPR. It is an important skill and useful knowledge in and out of an outdoors or survival situation.

Packing your first-aid kit For me, I wanted the first-aid kit that I keep in my bug-out bag to be relatively small, so as to not take up too much space that could be allotted to food or other important items. When packing your kit, be sure to leave it at the top of your bag. You want to be able to pull out the kit quickly in the event of a medical emergency. I keep mine clipped to the outside of my bug-out bag or day pack when I go camping or hiking for easy accessibility.

If you enjoy podcasts, we invite you to listen to our program, THE OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL SHOW. You can also join us on Facebook. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Acorn student Daniels visits the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier”

Kenzie Daniels and her Adviser, Mindy Lyle attended National FCCLA Capitol Leadership and Fall Conference in Washington DC on Nov. 2-7.

As a member of the Arkansas State Executive Council, Kenzie took part in a ceremony in which she laid a wreath from the Arkansas delegation at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

“It was a truly humbling experience and an honor to do this for our state.”

The Executive Council also met with Senator Tom Cotton, Senator John Boozeman, and State Representatives Bruce Westerman, French Hill, and Rick Crawford.

The students took part in a Capitol Hill Advocacy event and then spoke to these men about the importance of Career & Technical Education, Career & Technical Student Organization such as FCCLA, and how vital continued funding for these programs is.

The group also toured Mount Vernon, many National Monuments, the National Zoo, and several Smithsonian Museums, as well as attending various leadership meetings and trainings with FCCLA. Kenzie is a 10th grader at Acorn High School. She is the Acorn FCCLA President, Arkansas FCCLA State President, and is running for FCCLA National office this Spring.

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November 17, 2021

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November 17, 2021

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