With the release of black and red balloons, senior Carmen Puckett was crowned the Mena High School Homecoming Queen for 2022 by 2021 Homecoming Queen Cassidy Ashcraft.
See HOMECOMING continued on pages 13-18
Carmen Puckett was crowned Mena High School Homecoming Queen. She is escorted by Maddox Medlin (left) and Tristan Crane. (Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
By Arkansas State Police
The coronation ceremony for this year’s homecoming court took place on the field of Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium Friday night just prior to the football game against the Pocola Indians. Twelve beautiful young ladies and their escorts were individually introduced to the crowd during the presentation, fanning out before the Bearcat band and cheerleaders.
Woman’s body found inside fire scene
By Ethan Nahté
Once the court was introduced, Mena High School senior Addi Dollar was chosen as the Maid of Honor, presented with roses and a sash.
The 2022 Mena High School Court Maids: seniors Patience Ferguson, Ashley
The Mena Fire Department re sponded to the report of a resi dential fire at 407 First St. about 1 p.m. While attempting to gain control of the fire, authorities discovered the body. The house was initially believed to be un occupied and without utility connections.Specialagents of the state po lice Criminal Investigation Di vision are trying to determine whether there is a connection between the fire and the disap pearance of a woman who lived in the same neighborhood. The body will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laborato ry where pathologists will de termine the manner and cause of death as well as the identity of the unknown woman.
Mena police and fire officials have requested the Arkansas State Police to investigate the death of a woman whose body was found inside a residence Saturday, Sept. 17.
Dollar said, “I was very surprised. I didn’t even pay attention in practice. I didn’t know where to go. I didn’t think I would beat anyone. It’s amazing. I feel so honored that my whole class—the whole school—it’s an honor.”
Puckett said, “It’s amazing. I was so nervous, but it is so exciting. I was about to pass out. I had my knees locked the whole time. I thought, ‘Oh, my gosh, I’m going to die…’ and every one’s watching,” she said with a laugh. “It was so exciting. I’m so happy.”
Titsworth, Sara Dozier, and Alyssa Wilson; juniors Shantal Tecson and Sophia Vacca; sophomores Isabel Vacca and Reese Montgomery; freshmen Kate Wilson and Jayden Cox. FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 479.243.960071953 Your DAILY News Sources: KENA 104.1 FM & MyPulseNews.com THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 Carmen Puckett selected as MHS Homecoming Queen INSIDE: New Jackpot LOTTO GamePage 8 Bearcats Victorious Page 2 Alcohol Petition DebatePage 11
See VICTORY
continued on page 8
By Ethan Nahté
Bearcat Colby Davis, No. 45, faces off against Pocola’s Hunter Stockton, No. 54. Davis was selected Player of the Game. (Photo courtesy of Mena Public Schools)
Bearcats victorious in homecoming game
2 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Sports
The Mena Bearcats were off to a seemingly good start in the opening minutes of their homecoming game against the Pocola (Oklahoma) In dians Friday evening. On the first Bearcat drive, No. 33 Jayden Felix ran the ball over 60 yards in three of six plays, scoring a touchdown. The extra point was good, making the game 7-0 in the first three minutes. They came close to scoring once more on their next possession, making their way down the field, only to turn it over not far from the endzone.TheIndians finally scored in the second quarter and went for the 2-point conversion, leading 8-7. The Bearcats had one fum
ble. The Indians scored again but failed on another 2-point at tempt, leading the Bearcats 14-7. The Bearcats scored once more with 4:15 to go and attempted a 2-point conversion of their own. They crossed the line, but there was a flag on the play. On the replay of the down, they failed to score the extra 2, leaving them trailing 14-13. With only 2:22 left in the half, No. 45 Colby Davis scored a touch down, and the extra point was good. The first half ended 20-14 in Mena’s favor.Inthe third quarter, Davis would intercept the ball. Then Felix ran the ball for a first down to the eight-yard line. At third and goal, Davis scored another touchdown and Felix fol
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Couple this with efforts to go to a cashless society and we should be wary of the end game liberal/progres sive politicians may have. Our Canadi an neighbors used financial control to cut off truckers’ funds electronically to break their protest over vaccine man dates. The control extended to insur ance, banks, and crowd funding sites. We should have been watching and learning. I am sure our politicians were. Measures that seek to control certain aspects of our lives are often innocent sounding and have the greater good as their stated objective. The common denominator, however, is CONTROL.
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Letter to the Editor:
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Ronny Henson, Mena
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I also found out that a few people have started calling the county clerk’s office to find out how they can get their name taken off and receiving very few answers and was referred to another office. They don’t want to get involved and one said that it involved too much paper work. By the time this comes out in the paper, there will only be a few days left to contest the signature count. From what I am hearing, there were well over 200, maybe several hundred people that were tricked and lied to in getting their signatures on that petition, more than enough to overthrow the signature count BUT you have to call and demand that something be done NOW to get your name taken off that list, you have to act NOW. It is voter fraud. Hmmm, now where have I heard that before?
KENA 104.1 - KQOR MyPulseNews.com105.3
Based off the previous letter, phone calls and comments made to the Pulse, we have inquired about the alcohol petition. Read about it on page 10.
The latest intrusion into our privacy is by Visa, Master Card, and Ameri can Express. They have assigned a four-digit code to identify sales from gun stores. The move was applauded and pushed for by liberal politicians. Their purpose is to alert government officials of purchases of ammo and guns by potential wrong doers, but in stead will label all purchasers as sus pect. Background checks for firearms purchases to keep firearms out of the hands of those restricted or track multi ple purchases already exist. This move sounds like the credit card companies will be acting as agents/spies for the government.
What could possibly go wrong here? What overreach or invasion of your pri vacy could result? What constitutes a gun store? Simply using cash can cir cumvent their intrusion. Is the next step to eliminate cash?
Ronald Goss, retired, Mena
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DanDistributionPersonalityReceptionist/On-Air&InsertionStaff:&LindaDeramus,JasonSharp,EdwardWerkhoven
The point I am trying to make is this… how reliant are we on credit cards and what control do they have in our lives? What data is being collected and how is it being used? Can our finances
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Patrick Massey
1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953
Editor’s Response
If a store sells guns/ammo as well as other items will all sales be reported? Walmart, Atwoods, or Tim’s Yamaha lo cally all sell guns and ammo. If you buy a big-ticket item, because they are also gun stores, does it raise red flags and have agents knocking at your door? The unintended consequences and possibility of overreach are scary. The code does not strictly identify guns/ ammo, just those items purchased from a gun store. Ultimately, what will be defined as a gun store? Do you sense big brother is spying on you?
There have been numerous articles written asking how much cash you should have on hand in the event of an emergency. The possibility of ID theft, ransom ware, or a shutdown of the grid all make that question relevant. More than once Mena has lost internet and cash/check was the only payment op tion for hours.
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be weaponized against us? Can we be controlled by cutting off the use of credit/debit cards?
I urge you to get informed, ask ques tions, and VOTE as if your future/free doms depend on it. Because they do!
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Alcohol ballet - I have found out that it was a VERY close signature count that put it over the top, only about a hundred or so. Also there were a good handful of signatures that were reject ed, some from another county, sound familiar!!
respect and kindest regards,
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Morning
Ariel Varner
but the monkeys outsmart him at every turn. After one incredibly intense encounter, the mon keys attack Jay Berry and Rowdy, and they limp home covered in scratches and bites. Daisy spends several days nursing them back to health.
As I drive through what seems like a sublime fairyland, I listen to a book on the stereo in my little S-10 pickup. The story appears predictable as a boy in the Ozarks of northeast Oklahoma reminisces about the summer he turned 14. But the story heads into bizarre ter ritory when the boy, Jay Berry, and his hound dog, Rowdy, are out looking for the family’s crazy old milk cow, and Rowdy trees an animal in a large oak tree.Jay Berry tells the story, “At first, I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me. I just couldn’t believe what I was seeing. It was a monkey—an hon est to goodness monkey.” Although it was hard to believe a story about find ing a monkey in northeast Oklahoma, I wasn’t surprised. After all, the title of the book is “Summer of the Monkeys.”
dled together in a washout in the river bank, wet, cold, and almost dead. When the monkeys saw that he was trying to help them, they followed him home. From this point on, the story follows a happy ending path. Jay Berry returns the monkeys to the circus and gets the reward. Instead of buying a pony and a rifle, he uses the reward money to pay for his sister’s surgery. But somehow, in the end, he still ends up with a pony and a rifle.Although the premise seems a bit silly on the surface, the book has an excel lent moral. It is about family and what matters most in this life. The book ex amines broad themes such as not giving up on your dreams, kindness, and love. As I thought about the book, my mind kept returning to what I feel is
In his book “Grace for the Moment,” Max Lucado offers a pledge that we could all make our own: “Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice, may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of Gentlemyself.”Reader, maybe, like Jay Berry, we need to change how we view those we oppose. Instead of viewing them as enemies we need to subdue, we need to consider them with compassion and kindness. As a Christian, kindness can go a long way. It can show others the character of the God we serve. We can show people they are important and created in God’s image through a smile, kind words, and compassion. You may never know the positive impact of your kindness, but “Let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 (TPT)
Replacing windshields in Polk County for over forty years.
An Arkie’s Faith Chasing monkeys
Joke of the Week: I made some fish tacos today, but they just ignored them and swam away.
Located at 3008 Hwy 71 South
As I travel, the landscape seems almost otherworldly. The trees along the road are veiled in wisps of fog, and overhead a crescent moon tries to break through the cirrus clouds. The faint moonlight enhances the ghostly, ethereal scenery of the early morning hours.
the turning point in the book. Jay Ber ry had compassion for the monkeys on the night of the terrible storm. Instead of viewing them as enemies he must subdue; he worried about them and had compassion for them. From that point on, everything in his life changed from disappointments to all his wishes com ing true. The book wraps everything up just a bit too neatly but points out that compassion and kindness are the best approaches.InPsalms 112:4 (VOICE), the Bible tells us that “When life is dark, a light will shine for those who live rightly— those who are merciful, compassionate, and strive for Unfortunately,justice.”most Christians are not known for their mercy, compassion, and desire for justice. We shout in the public arena, “Everyone should keep God’s law as I see it.” But Paul tells us, “The entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neigh bor as yourself.’” Galatians 5:14 (NIV)
intensified, Jay Berry started worrying about his monkey nemeses. The follow ing day, he told his Mama, “I’m going down in the bottoms and see about the monkeys. They could’ve drowned or blown away in the storm. I’m worried about them.”
From the day Jay Berry discovers monkeys in a nearby river bottom and learns that they have escaped from a traveling circus, which has offered a large reward for their capture, he is obsessed with capturing the monkeys. He aims to claim the
One night, not long after the monkeys stole his coconuts, Jay Berry was sleep ing soundly when an earth-jarring clap of thunder awakened him. As the storm
By Richie Lawry
Give Richie a call at 479-394-9938
The story is written from the perspec tive of a 14-year-old boy named Jay Ber ry. His life is full of adventure, exploring the river bottoms near his family’s farm. In the late 1800s, his family had moved from Missouri to Oklahoma to be near his grandparents. His twin sister, Daisy, has a crippled leg, but the family doesn’t
4 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Faith
fromborrowedandingthemtoattemptsrifle.andaofhiseytheandrewardusemontofulfilldreamowningponya.22Hecaptureustrapsanethisgrandfather,
I first heard about the book “Summer of the Monkeys” by Wilson Rawls when I read about the Mena School District’s reading program, One District, One Book. I thought, “The title is interest ing; I should read the book.” Accord ing to a Polk County Pulse article, “The idea is that the school district, sponsors, households, and community all read the same book, giving them something in common in addition to promoting reading and literacy.”
Jay Berry and his grandpa go to a nearby town to visit the library and see if there is a book there that can help them learn how to catch monkeys. They hatch a plan to catch the monkeys using coconuts, but as they return home, the monkeys steal the coconuts. Jay Berry wonders if he will ever be able to cap ture the monkeys.
His Papa asked, “If you find the mon keys, are you go ing to try to keystheryright.”areseewant“No,answered,Jaythem?”catchBerryIjusttoiftheyallJayBerfoundmonhud
have enough money to pay for the sur gery she needs.
The fixed costs are shared by all classes of rate payers, such as com mercial, manufacturing and residen tial customers.
When the entire Legislative Coun cil votes on whether or not to approve distribution of federal relief funds, the recommendations of the PEER sub committee carry tremendous weight.
According to the state Secretary of Agriculture, about $135 million would be available for drinking water projects. Another $135 million would be available for waste water projects and about $10 million for groundwa ter and irrigation projects.
Legislators refer to the subcommit tee simply as PEER, an acronym for Performance Evaluation and Expen diture Review. It monitors the finan cial and fiscal performance of state agencies and educational institutions.
The value of that credit was the bone of contention. Utilities want to pay less and net-metering customers want to be paid more for the excess electricity. Electric companies point out that they have fixed costs be yond the expense of operating power plants, such as maintenance of trans mission lines.
5 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 Politics
Ave. Suite 2B Fort Smith, AR 72901 Phone:
At its most recent meeting, PEER approved authority for 23 school dis tricts to spend about $65.6 million. Much of that money will be spent on bonuses for teachers and classified staff.Also
The chairman of the state Public Service Commission, Ted Thomas of Conway, will resign effective Oc tober 1. His resignation is important because he has been outspoken in his support of alternative energy such as solarThepower.PSCregulates utilities. Thanks to passage of Act 464 of 2019, solar power has grown in popularity in Ar kansas. A Senate co-sponsor credited Thomas with helping to win legisla tive approval of Act 464.
From
From State House of Representatives the State Senate
The Agriculture Department plans to accept applications during a 50-day period.InJuly numerous local elected offi
the
John Boozman Garrison (479) Reserve 71901 (501) 609-9796 (501) 609-9887
PSC Chairman Resigns
573-0189 Fax: (479) Bruce575-0553Westerman 101
The week of September 18 has been proclaimed as Adult Education Week inThereArkansas.are 37 adult education pro viders that serve all 75 counties. On Thursday, September 22, every adult education center will be holding an open house from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The open house will provide an op portunity for Arkansans to learn what
at its most recent meeting, PEER recommended that legislators approve spending authority of about $280 million for water, waste water and irrigation projects.
Larry Teague
John Maddox
1120
Contact Your Legislators! John (870)Nashville,P.O.Larry.Teague@senate.ar.govCall:Mena,520arkansashouse.orgJohn.Maddox@MaddoxChurchAvenueAR71953(479)394-6060LarryTeagueBox903AR71852845-5303
Phone:
cials, engineers and managers of water systems asked legis lators to approve funding of water projects. They referred to a survey completed last year that indicated the need for about 1,400 water projects costing about $5 billion. They also expressed a sense of urgency caused by inflation. It takes a long time to complete the various stages of water and waste wa ter projects, so it is important to get them started before inflation severely reduces the buying power of current funding amounts.
PEER has reviewed and recom mended approval of about $739 mil lion in federal relief funds for public schools. Those funds are part of more than a billion dollars in American Rescue Plan that the state received for elementary and secondary schools.
The act resolved the issue of net-me tering customers, such as solar power plants that generate their electrici ty, sometimes in excess of what they need. The excess power is transmitted to the utility’s grid and the customer gets credit for producing it.
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic Arkansas has received billions of dollars in federal relief funding.
St. Suite 200 Hot Springs, AR
Fax:
The PEER subcommittee of the Legislative Council has grown significantly in impor tance because it reviews how state agencies, institutions of higher education and public schools proposed to spend those fed eral relief dollars.
Every community feels the impact when adults lack a high school diploma or the skills to compete in the 21st century workforce.Notonly is it devastating for the adults who may dream of a better life for their families, but it may impact education for future generations. Stud ies show that children of adults with low literacy skills have a 72% chance of being at the lowest reading skills them selves.Itisestimated that nearly 300,000 Ar kansas adults do not have a high school diploma. The good news is that in our state there are resources for every adult to continue their education at either a minimal cost or no cost at all.
services are available in their community.Adulteducation has served close to two million Arkan sans since 1965, with more than 457,718 individuals pass ing the GED or earning their high school diploma since 1966.Today, adult education pro grams do much more than GED prepa ration. The programs help Arkansans complete job training through the Workforce Alliance for Growth in the Economy program and help Arkansans improve their English language skills with English-as-a-Second Language classes.Participation in these programs has an impact on accelerating growth to ward a healthier economy. The ripple effect of adults continuing their edu cation can have far-reaching results. Family members who are still in school see that education is important. Their determination influences others who areYoustruggling.canfind an adult education cen ter near you by visiting www.aalrc.org or calling 1-877-963-4GED.
cancelled sports. I heard from parents, teachers, and student-athletes about how important school was and the sports and other extra curricular programs that go with school.
High school sports are important to every community in Arkansas, but it is most important to those who participate, the student-ath letes. Our stu dents spend so much time of their young life learning how to serve, drib ble, and catch a ball. They learn to make a tackle or march in the band.But the spe cial thing about sports for our children is what they can learn that translates to the rest of their life. Sports sionandpracticechildrendiscipline.responsibilityteachandOurlearntohonestytohavepasfortheirgoals.Theyteachhowto
LITTLE ROCK – Every year, near the end of Summer, the smell of popcorn, face paint, and freshly mowed grass fills the air in cities and towns around the state. Friday night lights and the chill of the ear ly fall air is a familiar feeling to Ar kansans of all ages.
In fact, Arkansas ranked second in the nation for in-classroom instruction during the pandemic. Allowing our school dis tricts to make decisions based on their unique needs kept the health and safety of our stu
dents and families a top pri ority without forcing all schools to follow one set of rules.
I told our Secretary of Education and the pub lic that we had to have school in the fall of 2020, and that’s exact
be resourceful and take situations they aren’t fa miliar with and make the best out of them. There was a time, not too long ago, during the pandemic that many states canceled school and
ly what we did. We had to make many changes to how we operated, we made adjustments to our daily lives, but ultimately we as a com munity, were resourceful and made it work. Our students continued to participate in the extracurricular
activities they hold dearly, all while going to school and continuing their education.
(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
leyball for the Bulldogs. In her let ter she talked about how her team huddled around the T.V. watching a press conference where I an nounced that high school sports would be played during that up coming school year.
Gov. Asa Hutchinson
Hannah and her team went on to win the 5A State title in volleyball that season. In the letter she told me they followed all the precau tions “to a T” and did whatever they could to make sure they were ready to play. Now, Hannah is playing college volleyball in Ar kansas.Thisis an amaz ing example of how sports instill meaningful qual ities in our chil dren. They had a goal. They did everything it took to reach that goal, and even though many things had to adjust they were successful in their willyoungTonight,endeavor.manyArkansansbebattling it out against each other on the turf, and in the end some teams will win and some will lose. But the sun will rise again to morrow, and those life lessons they learned will carry on with them for a lifetime.
In the fall of 2020, I received a letter from a senior at Greenwood High School. Her name was Han nah Watkins and she played vol
6 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Politics
Life lessons from the Friday night lights
ical to ensure that older adults and those with serious illness receive the care they want where they want to receive it.”
“NHPCO and HAN are proud to endorse the ‘Supporting Our Seniors Act’ which will establish a committee to foster bipartisan, transformative changes to better provide individuals with disabil ities and seniors access to com prehensive, person-centered care,” said Ben Marcantonio, COO and Interim CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Hos pice Action Network. “We thank Senators Rosen and Boozman for their leadership on these issues which positively impact the hospice and palliative health communities.”“Withthenumber of Ameri cans living with Alzheimer’s dis
Sen. John Boozman
ease expected to nearly double and total payments for health care costs projected to reach nearly $1 trillion by 2050, our nation must take action to im prove long-term care. The ‘Sup porting our Seniors Act’ will establish a bipartisan national advisory commission that will provide policymakers with an actionable plan to increase ac cess to crucial long-term care services and supports,” said Robert Egge, Alzheimer’s Asso ciation Chief Public Policy Of ficer and Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Impact Move ment. “Thank you to Senators Rosen and Boozman for intro ducing this critical legislation and for your continued lead ership on issues important to Americans impacted by Alzhei mer’s and other dementia.”
“As our population ages, the need for long-term care as sistance will suringIwhothisjoinsourcestheiroptionsandviduals’forceingchallengeshelptionalBoozman. “Establishingincrease,” saidanaadvisorycommissionwillusbetterprepareforfutureincludingcoordinatservices,trainingaworktomeetseniors’andindiwithdisabilitiesneedsprovidinginformationandtoempowerthemandcaregiverswiththereavailable.I’mpleasedtoSenatorRoseninleadinginitiative.”“LikesomanyAmericanshavecaredforlovedones,knowtheimportanceofenthatourseniorshaveac
The National Advisory Com mission created by this legisla tion would include government and private-sector stakehold ers, along with family caregiv ers, home health care workforce representatives and long-term care service recipients.
Creation sought for a National Advisory Commission on Long-Term Care Services
WASHINGTON––U.S. Sena tors John Boozman (R-AR) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), a member of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, introduced the “Sup porting Our Seniors Act” to cre ate a National Advisory Com mission on long-term care ser vices for seniors and individuals in need of care and long-term support. In 2013, the Commis sion on Long Term Care made a key recommendation to create a national advisory committee to continue and expand upon their work. This bipartisan legislation would create that commission to assess and provide regular re porting to Congress on service delivery, financing, workforce adequacy and other issues to in crease seniors’ access to afford able long-term care services.
cess to the care and sup port services they need to live their day-to-day lives,” said Rosen. “This bipartisan legislation will create a commission to further examine chal lenges and needs in long-term care services, as well as provide specific recommen dations, so that Congress can make informed decisions on be half of our seniors and others in need of quality, affordable longterm support and care.”
er Americans are living with serious or complex chronic illnesses, creating significant caregiving re sponsibilities for ativeaddressingUnderstandingfamilies.andtheirpallicareneedsiscrit
This legislation is endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association, the Alzheimer’s Impact Move ment, the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medi cine, the Coalition to Transform Advanced Care, the Health Care Chaplaincy Network, the Hos pice Action Network, the Na tional Association for Home Care and Hospice, the National Coalition for Hospice and Pal liative Care and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Or ganization.“TheAmerican Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medi cine is proud to offer its strong support for the ‘Supporting Our Seniors Act,’ and we commend Sen. Rosen for her leadership in recognizing the importance of integrating palliative care to improve long-term care,” said Tara C. Friedman, MD, Presi dent of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medi cine. “A growing number of old
7 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 Politics
Arkansas Lottery unveils new jackpot game, LOTTO
www.MyArkansasLottery.com.kansasthisportionscholarshipbeenitexplained.in675,000dollarsbutapprovedArkansasshipswillceedsacrossasatParticipantskansasLottery.com/games/LOTTO.www.MyArcanalsoverifyresultsanylicensedASLretaileraswellaselectgroupofnewspartnersthestate.LiketheASL’sothergames,profromthenewLOTTOgamegotowardsfundingscholarforArkansasstudents.TheScholarshipLotterywasbyvotersjust14yearsagohasalreadyraisedoverabillioninscholarships.“ThatequalsouttomorethanscholarshipsthatstudentsArkansashavereceived,”McNatt“WhenIwasgrowingupwasn’tavailableanditwouldhavenice.It’snicetoknowthatthisisoutthereandthataofeveryticketsoldgoestoscholarshipmoney.”FormoreinformationontheArScholarshipLottery,visit
Tickets can be purchased in Ar kansas at the same participating retailers that supply scratch offs and other games through the Ar kansas Scholarship Lottery. McNatt said nearly 2,000 retailers across the state will supply tickets for the new LOTTO game. Tickets are $2 per game and can also be purchased
“The cool thing about this game is that it is played and won in Arkan sas,” McNatt explained. “So it is for Arkansans only.”
McNatt says the unique thing about the new LOTTO is that it is entirely based within Arkansas. Ev eryone is likely familiar by now with the big regional lotteries like the Powerball and Mega Millions. LOT TO, on the other hand, is an entirely Arkansas-based lottery game.
The 4th quarter would see Davis run for a 49-yard touchdown early on, for a lead of 35-20.
lowed it with a 2-point conversion. The Bearcats then led 28-14
“The starting jackpot is $250,000 and it will continue to grow until somebody wins,” said McNatt.
VICTORY continued from page 2
The Indians failed to cash in on another 2-point conversion attempt after scoring a touchdown with 1:15 left in regulation. They recovered an onside kick but made no ground with two incomplete passes. At 4th and 10, the Indians made a second
through the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery app.
onside kick and recovered at the Bearcat’s 27. They passed for a 27yard touchdown, bringing them to within a point of the Bearcats. Their last attempt at a 2-point conversion was no good, allowing the Bearcats to squeak by in a tight game for a 35-34Daviswin.was chosen as Player of the Game with his two touchdowns, including his 47-yard run, and his one interception. Davis was also the Bearcat MVP Player of the Game for Wendy’s/ Exxon/Baskin Robbins. Michael Escobar, No. 3, was the Polk County Farm Bureau Player of theTheWeek.Bearcats have a bye week. They play next at Arkadelphia on Sept. 30. They are currently 3-1.
(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
“The drawings will be held every Wednesday and Saturday night at 9 p.m.,” McNatt said. “It’s pretty sim ple to play. Just pick six numbers from one to 40 and then wait for the draw.”LOTTO results will be available after each drawing at
By Patrick Massey
LITTLE ROCK - The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery is unveiling a new draw game this month in hopes of giving Arkansans another chance to win big while continuing to help fund scholarships for students in theThestate.LOTTO—as the new game is called—debuted Sept. 18. The start ing jackpot is a quarter of a million dollars. That’s just to start things off. Ashley McNatt, marketing and ad vertising director for the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, said the jackpot will keep growing until a winning ticket is claimed.
8 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022News
behavior change. This encour ages a voluntary change for youth ages 14 to 19.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Sept. 13, 2022) – Alzheimer’s Arkansas is extending an invitation to com munity members and caregivers to join the annual Little Rock Walk of Love at the Little Rock Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 30. Partic ipants will raise funds to support caregivers in need in Arkansas.
4. Vaping Webinars: With youth vaping and nicotine use on the rise, the American Lung Asso ciation and the Arkansas To bacco Education Initiative will host two free virtual youth vaping webinars to address the health risks of youth va ping, how the tobacco indus try targets youth, emerging trends, and provide cessation resources for schools. The we binar in the fall is intended for school administrators, teach ers, counselors, and school nurses and the webinar in the summer targets parents and caregivers to attend. Scholar ships for NOT (Not On To bacco) cessation training will be available to attendees.
For more information about the programs and resources offered by the Arkansas Tobacco Education Initiative, visit https://artei.org/
executive director of Alzheimer’s Arkansas. “The Walk of Love is our opportunity to show caregiv ers that they are not alone. We urge community members to join us in making an impact by sup porting our mission here at Alz heimer’s Arkansas.”
The event will kick off with a special concert from Rodney Block after the opening ceremo ny. Community members are en couraged to walk the zoo at their leisure, visit vendor booths, lis
9 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 News
Zoo Drive in Little Rock. Participants can register for the event here : at wide,serveddiseaseofnancialvidesnonprofitorg/alzheimers-arkansas-walk/https://www.alzark.Alzheimer’sArkansasisa501c3organizationthatprosupport,education,andfiassistancetocaregiversindividualswithAlzheimer’sanddementia.TheyhaveArkansansinneed,statesince1984.LearnmoreAlzArk.org.
Community members walk to bring hope to caregivers Annual Walk of Love to benefit Alzheimer’s Arkansas
“Every year, we are grateful for the hundreds who walk to sup port caregivers of Alzheimer’s and dementia across the state of Arkansas,” said Carolyn Berry,
The Arkansas Tobacco Educa tion Initiative was formed to im prove the health of all Arkansans by using evidence-based strategies through program initiatives, pro motion of cessation services and recommendations of smokefree policies; to reduce the use of all tobacco products, including elec tronic nicotine delivery systems, within Arkansas.
2. Resources to Help Teens Quit Tobacco: Not On Tobacco (NOT) is a tobacco cessation program designed with teen agers in mind. It takes a holis tic approach with each session using different interactive learning strategies based on Social Cognitive Theory of
ten to the concert and enjoy food around the Participantspark.may register to walk as an individual or with a group. All participants will be given access to a fundraising portal to invite friends to con tribute to the cause. Individuals who would like to participate but are unable to walk during the event are welcome to raise funds through the portal or place a do nation of their own. The walk will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at 1
1. Resources to Help Adults Quit Smoking: The program works with the Arkansas De partment of Health to offer free resources and education al programs for people who are ready to quit tobacco for good. Call 833-283-WELL or visit BeWellArkansas.org for help with quitting tobacco or managing diabetes and high blood pressure.
3. COPD Conference: Each year, the American Lung As sociation, in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Health, hosts educational ses sions for health professionals on chronic obstructive pul monary disease (COPD) man agement, the Gold Guidelines, vaccinations, and the medi cations to treat it amidst the current COVID-19 pandem ic. The conference is free and CEUs are available for health care professionals.
Arkansas Tobacco Education Initiative offers resources for teens and adults to quit tobacco for good LITTLE ROCK – (September 8, 2022) – Today, the Arkansas To bacco Education Initiative, which is managed by the American Lung Association in Arkansas, an nounced several resources avail able to help teens and adults quit smoking and vaping.
The organization offers many resources, training and guidance for residents and healthcare pro viders, including:
Celebrating 75 Years of the U.S. Air Force
10 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022News
We have an obligation to en sure our facilities meet the needs of the families and men and women called to serve. As lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations Subcom mittee on Military Construction, I’ve worked to secure funding for improv ing base dormitories so Airmen have a safe, reliable and affordable place to callLasthome.year, we joined Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne Bass to discuss updates to improve the quality of life for those in uni form. That visit underscored the ne cessity of additional support in the area of Investingchildcare.inaccommodations and childcare for military families is part of our commitment to service members. I’m proud to champion a new child development center at
history and advance Arkansas’s role in ensuring our exceptional air supe riority continues.
By Sen. John Boozman
A few weeks ago, I met a new res ident of Arkansas who moved to the state because her husband is a C-130 pilot stationed at Little Rock Air Force Base. The community at LRAFB is made up of people from around the country dedicated to serving their country because every C-130J Super Hercules pilot and crewmember re ceives their training here.
Since 1971, central Arkansas has been “The Home of Herk Na tion.” Thanks to local, state and fed eral efforts to strengthen and ad vance that mission, it will remain so for years to come.
LRAFB to meet these families’ needs. Additionally, Arkansas is poised to expand its role in our nation al defense with the selection of Fort Smith’s Ebbing Air National Guard Base as the Air Force’s preferred loca tion for F-35 fighter planes and a Re public of Singapore F-16 squadron as part of the Foreign Military Sales pro gram.This will tremendously benefit the local and state economy and it’s good for the entire country. The Fort Smith community has welcomed the leaders of Singapore to share the opportuni ties available for its military members and the congressional delegation has met with the Singapore Ambassador to reaffirm our commitment to work ingThetogether.connection between the Air Force and The Natural State is stur dy and deep. As we celebrate the ser vice’s 75th anniversary and recognize the Airmen and their families who support its mission, we pay tribute to their dedication to continuing a proud legacy of honor and valor.
(Trey Youngdahl/Pulse)
We can be proud of the accom plishments of the men and women who served at Eaker Air Force Base in Blytheville supporting U.S. military efforts from World War II through Desert Storm, and we’re working to commemorate their contributions by designating it as the National Cold War Center.
The United States Air Force has bravely fought to protect freedom, liberty and peace on every continent. As co-chair of the Senate Air Force Caucus and the son of a retired Air Force Master Sergeant, I have per sonally witnessed the service and sacrifice of those individuals, past and present, comprising this distin guished branch of our Armed Forc es. That’s why I’m proud to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Air Force and provide ongoing support to the needs of our Airmen.
Our Airmen deliver the best air power the world has ever known, defending our nation and interests in all corners of the globe, and I’ve joined with state leaders and the con gressional delegation to preserve our
I, the undersigned registered voter of Polk County, Arkan sas, respectfully request that an election be held to deter mine whether licenses will be granted for the manufacture or sale or the bartering, loaning, or giving away of intoxicating liquor in the district described below, to the end that the same may be adopted, enact ed, or rejected by the vote of the registered voters of said district, I say for myself:
The Polk County Pulse has printed letters on the subject, re ceived phone calls and met peo ple face-to-face who feel they were lied to. They are hoping to have their names removed from the petition in hopes of prevent
“I have had several individuals come to my office and ask if they could withdraw their signature,” Harrison said. “Once that petition is submitted to this office it is an official document and I cannot make any changes or give anyone their signatures back. When asked what they can do, I have advised them to consult with an attorney. I am forbidden by law to give any legal advice or assist anyone with any legal matter because I am not licensed to give legal advice. If that is what they mean by being referred to another office, then yes, I did suggest they seek legal advice from an attorney.
ing the measure from making it to the ballot.
Local Option Question (Wet/ DryVoteQuestion)fororagainst the question by placing an appropriate mark
[ ] AGAINST the Manufacture or Sale of Intoxicating Liquors
[ ] FOR the Manufacture or Sale of Intoxicating Liquors
For the record, and despite what some may think, Pulse Multi-Me dia remains neutral on the sub ject. We have published the many letters, as well as the facts as pre sented to us, from all sides. If the measure does appear on the gen eral election ballot, make your vote count, whichever way you feel about the matter.
Now that the petition has been certified, there are those who placed their signature on the document who believe they were tricked or misled by the petition ers regarding the wording of the petition. Since it is impossible to know exactly what was verbally stated to each person who was asked if they’d like to sign, per haps someone was tricked. Per haps they misunderstood. Per haps it was not explained in a way that made proper sense to the person signing.
Petition for Local Option Elec tion
Alcohol petition debate
written after my signature.
The option to keep Polk Coun ty dry or to make it wet is still a contentious subject amongst res idents less than two months be fore the general election, at which point registered Polk County vot ers can vote “For” or “Against” theAftermeasure.apetition was circu lated by the group Polk Coun ty Growth & Advancement throughout spring and a portion of summer 2022, the Polk Coun ty Clerk’s office certified that enough signatures by registered Polk County voters were acquired to place the measure on the bal lot in the upcoming November 8 election. The petition reads:
I have personally signed this petition: I am a registered voter of Polk County, Arkansas, and my printed name, date of birth, residence, city or town of residence, and date of sign ing this petition are correctly
To the Honorable Terri Har rison, County Clerk of Polk County, Arkansas:
11 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 News
The election shall be held in Polk County, Arkansas, on Tuesday, November 8, 2022.
By Ethan Nahté
Some people are also debating whether or not the petition is val id because some signatures were removed prior to the certifica tion.Polk County Clerk Terri Harri son said, “Our job is to verify the signatures that were submitted to us. The committee working on this issue were required to gath er at least 4,527 signatures to get the issue put on the ballot. They submitted 6,104 signatures to this office. We verified each signature against our voter registration re cords. Of those 6,104 signatures, we accepted 4,625 as being good signatures. We had to reject 1,479 either because they were not reg istered to vote, or they signed the petition more than once.”
Debra Buschman, Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the 18th West Judicial District, said, “I am unaware of any mechanism by which a person may remove their signature from a petition once the petition has been filed. The statute (A.C.A. 14-14-107 (d)) provides for the withdrawal of a signature “prior” to the time of filing with the county clerk. A signature may not be withdrawn after filing “unless otherwise spe cifically provided by law.” To my knowledge there is no other pro vision in the law that would allow withdrawal of a valid signature after filing.
(StatePoint) According to a new survey, American nurs es are overwhelmed by job demands, a long-brewing situation only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandem ic. While the majority of nurses continue to be dedi cated to the care of patients, many are considering leav ing the profession at a time when staff shortages are part of the problem. But there’s hope, according to industry experts, who say that un derstanding these challeng es can lead to meaningful and necessary reforms.
portunities more effectively. Identifying new pathways for nursing education is also a critical steppingstone to wards reforming the profes sion and addressing health care provider shortages. That’s why the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers accredited programs at all levels to prepare and train students, including various tracks for a BSN, Master of Science in Nurs ing (MSN), PhD and DNP focused on Caring Science. Also offered are a BSN-DNP program with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Prac titioner concentration and post-graduate dermatology and telehealth certificate cours es, as well as other concentrations that intersect innovation and tech nology.“Nursing is the greatest profes sion in the world. The experience you will get is priceless,” said one of the survey respondents. “Make sure you’re getting into nursing for the right reasons because I love coming to work and look forward to caring for patients every day. No two patients are alike, so every day in nursing is like a new experience and adventure. And you make the difference.”Tolearn more about the chal lenges facing the nursing industry, visit pleteture-of-nursing,crosscountry.com/the-fuwherethecomstudyresults,canbefound.
end, Cross Country is de ploying several strategies to trans form the nursing profession. These include an ongoing examination of pay rates and retention practic es; identifying new pathways for education, licensing, and talent development; focusing on flexibil ity and growth opportunities; and investments toward innovation to strengthen the nursing workforce.
Addressing the Burdens of American Nurses
(c) Wavebreakmedia / iStock via Getty Images Plus
12 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022News
to fix these mounting problems is now.”Tothat
The company continues to invest heavily in technology and digital transformation to support these strategies. Among these initia tives is a new website dedicated to nursing candidates. Found at crosscountry.com, the site aims to help health care professionals find and engage with potential job op
indicated their desire to leave the profession has increased dramat ically since the pandemic, while those who said their desire to stay has dropped from 24% in 2021 to 4% in 2022. This translates to a real potential loss of talent in hospi tals, physicians’ offices, long-term care facilities and other healthcare settings. Of those surveyed, 23% plan to look for a new career in 1-2 years and 13% plan to retire in 1-5 years.“We had hoped that as the pan demic eased, nurses would have better balance, mental health and working conditions, but we are not there and as a result, nurses are leaving the profession in droves,” says John A. Martins, president and chief executive officer, Cross Country Healthcare. “The time
The 2022 national survey, “The Future of Nursing: A Profession in Crisis,” of nurses and student nurses, was conducted by Cross Country, a market-leading tech-enabled workforce solutions platform and advisory firm, in partnership with Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nurs ing.Overall, the study revealed that nurses remain passionate about patient care, with 66% citing help ing people through meaningful work as a main driver for staying in the field. Nevertheless, ongo ing challenges have created un due burdens for nurses, with pay rates/compensation (86%), staff shortages (53%), stress (39%) and burnout (35%) cited as top career dissatisfiers.Thisfrustration has put the in dustry in crisis: 28% of nurses
Pulse September 21, 2022 13 THE POLK COUNTY Homecoming
2022
Mena Homecoming
14 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Homecoming
First place – Jr. High Ladycats Volleyball (right)
Second place – MYF Fourth Grade Cheer (page 13)
Third place – Sr. High Ladycats Volleyball (below and page 13)
Homecoming
The winners of the 2022 Homecoming Parade floats:
Pulse September 21, 2022 15 THE POLK COUNTY
Mena Bearcat’s Spirit Week was filled with activities for all ages, includ ing themed dress-up days, a Color Run, Ladycats volleyball, the aprade, a powder puff football game, a pep rally, the homecoming court presenta tion and coronation, the Bearcats vs. Indians football game and the Golden GalaColbydance.Davis was the Player of the Game for the Bearcats 35-34 win. Addi Dollar was selected as Maid of Honor. Carmen Puck ett was crowned the Mena Homecoming Queen for 2022. Photos by Andy Philpot, Mark Hobson and Mena High School students, and Pulse Multi-Media’s Jodi Croft and Ethan Nahté. More photos of the week-long events can be found on the Mena Public Schools and Pulse Facebook pages.
16 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Homecoming Homecoming2022MaidofHonorHomecoming2022MaidofHonorADDI DOLLARADDI DOLLAR HomecomingPUCKETTCARMENCARMENPUCKETT2022QueenHomecoming2022Queen
PATIENCE FERGUSON
TITSWORTH
ALYSSA WILSON
ASHLEY
Pulse September 21, 2022 17 THE POLK COUNTY Homecoming
SARA DOZIER
18 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Homecoming SHANTAL TECSON ISABEL VACCA KATE WILSON SOPHIA VACCA REESEJAYDENMONTGOMERYCOX
Pulse September 21, 2022 19 THE POLK COUNTY Homecoming
THE POLK COUNTY September 21, 2022
21 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 News
Imogene Turner Estate Sale, 306 Seventh St., Mena, Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. T0921
Brandon Ellison, Polk County Judge September 19, 2022
In accordance with Super Circular 2 CFR Part 200 (Subpart F) §.512 (a)(2) Audit requirements, citizens of Polk County are hereby notified that an audit of The County of Polk has been completed and is available for public review at the Polk County Clerk’s Office during normal business hours.
Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Com petitive starting wages with benefits available.
Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.T1005
Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.T1005
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. T0921
CLASSIFIEDS
Mobile lawnmower repair and repair flats. Minimum, $20 service call. For details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204. T0921
- SERVICES -
Construction, pads, ponds, roads and more. Military discounts. Insured. Just give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976.
- EMPLOYMENT-
Daniel’s carpentry and painting and handyman service. Deck and privacy fences, etc. Call (479) 216-1101 or (479) 216-2299T1005
- YARD SALE -
Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergen cy appointments. Also, light deliveries. (870) 490-1191 T1012
F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applica tions for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Com petitive starting wages with benefits available.
22 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Classifieds
Porch sale - Downsizing every room in the house, including the garage. Antiques, collectibles, household items. Watch for more sales to follow. 204 Reine St. South in Mena, Saturday, Sept 24. T0921
Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light re placement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for Free estimate. T1026
T1026
- PUBLIC NOTICEPUBLIC NOTICE FOR REVIEW OF AUDIT
DE QUEEN – A former Horatio basket ball coach has entered a guilty plea over a charge that he and another former educator attempted to organize a sexual encounter with a 15-year-old girl.
POLK SHERIFF’SCOUNTYLOG MENAREPORTSPOLICE
The second defendant in the case, 41-year-old Lori Marshall of Lockesburg, pleaded guilty in June to a similar offense. She was sentenced to four years of proba tion in addition to a $1,500 court fine. She will also be required to register as as sex offender.Following his guilty plea, Smith was sen tenced to 10 years in the Arkansas Depart ment of Corrections. He is also ordered to pay court fines and will have to register as a sexSmithoffender.and Marshall were both charged in June 2021 following an investigation into the internet stalking allegations. Prosecutors are alleging Smith and Marshall had discussed arranging a sexual encounter with a 15-yearold girl. The incident in question was report edly committed between May 20, 2020, and June 30, 2020, according to court records.
Criminal Mischief and a warrant for Harassment.Deputieswere dispatched to a camp site near Lake Wilhelmina in reference to the theft of property.
According to court records, 32-year-old Ryan Smith of Conway pleaded guilty in the Sevier County Circuit Court on Sept. 6 for the offense of attempted internet stalking of a child. He entered the guilty plea after ini tially pleading not guilty to the felony charge.
Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to forgery. Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to harass ment.
September 12, 2022
Marshall was a first-grade teacher at Horatio Elementary School while Smith was a basketball coach who left the Horatio School District in 2016.
Deputies were dispatched to a resi dence on Mills Lane near Mena in ref erence to a vehicle fire.
A report of criminal mischief was taken from a walk-in complainant.
September 14
Chad Thornton, 31 of Mena was ar rested on a warrant for 2nd Degree
Larry Garrett, 43, was charged with Breaking or Entering, Assault, and Criminal Mischief after a disturbance call to Walmart.
September 15
A report of harassment was taken from a walk-in complainant.
Deputies responded to a report of identity theft at a residence on Polk 42 nearDeputiesMena. responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a theft from a residence on Butler Circle near Hat field.Deputies responded to a dog bite vic tim.
Smith is also facing 35 counts of posses sion of child pornography in Faulkner Coun ty. He was initially arrested on those charges in May of last year. He is currently maintain ing a not guilty plea on those 35 charges. A jury trial is scheduled for next month.
September 16
Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a theft from a residence on Polk 25 near Hatfield.
Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a theft.
September 14, 2022
Deputies were dispatched to a resi dence on West Barton in Cove in refer ence to a welfare check.
A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant.
September 13 No report.
September 17
September 17, 2022
Heather Griffis, 37 of Eudora was arrested on a Felony Warrant for Non-Support.Deputieswere dispatched to a resi dence on Polk 74 near Mena in refer ence to a theft. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.
September 15, 2022
Heath Spencer, 25, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on 10th Street.Bradley Verba, 25, was served with a warrant after a traffic stop on Pine Av enue.Areport of theft was taken from Walmart.Areport of theft was taken from Walmart.Areport of theft was taken from Walmart.Matthew Hackworth, 37, was served with a warrant on Bethesda Road.
September 18, 2022
A report of theft was taken from a walk-in complainant.
September 16, 2022
Deputies were dispatched to a resi dence on Polk 646 near Mena in refer ence to a physical altercation. Informa tion has been forwarded to the Prose cuting Attorney for further consider ation.
An incident near Ward Lake near Mena led to the arrest of Kathy Harper, 42 of Mena on charges of Resisting Ar rest, Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct.Deputies were dispatched to a resi dence on Polk 77 near Mena in refer ence to a Deputiestheft.were dispatched to a resi dence on Polk 625 near Mena in refer ence to damage to a fence.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked 2 vehicle accidents this week.
Deputies were dispatched to a resi dence on No More Loop Lane in refer ence to a verbal altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.
John D Huff, 45 of Hatfield was ar rested on a warrant for Aggravated As sault and a warrant for 3rd Degree Do mestic Battery.
Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates, with 12 Inmates currently on the Wait ing List for a State Facility.
September 12
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.
By Patrick Massey
Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a stolen firearm.Deputies were dispatched to a res idence on Polk 122 near Mena in ref erence to a vehicle being broken into. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further con sideration.
September 13, 2022
William Pierce, 38, was served with a warrant at a residence on Janssen Ave nue.Timothy Robertson, 35, was served at the county jail.
Attempted internet stalking of a child in volves the pursuit of online communications with a child aged 15 or younger with intent to engage in sexual activity.
A report of theft and criminal mis chief was taken from Walmart.
Ryan Smith sentenced for child stalking
23 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 Police
Tony Odom, 62, was charged with Domestic Battery 3rd at a residence on Bell Lane.
September 11
Larry Garrett, 43, was served with a warrant at the county jail.
Only yard waste items will be picked up: tree limbs, shrubs, leaves, grass, etc.
Come play Bingo, Saturdays and Mondays, starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m.
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.
GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10 a.m. - noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.
The 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 chang es call (870) 385-2373.
Christ’s Church of Cove welcomes Labertew family
Christ’s Church of Cove would like to extend a warm welcome to Daniel Labertew and his family as he will be sharing the Word each Sunday. Daniel, a licensed minister, received his bachelor’s degree in biblical lan guages from Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, and his master’s degree in ancient Judaism and early Christianity from Jerusa lem University in Israel. He and his family have been res idents of Mena since 2017. Daniel’s
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
wife, Amber, works at Mena High School where their two teenage sons attend. They have a daughter who attends College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri.
Around Town
The City of Mena’s 19th Annual Fall Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 24.
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 is required that smaller items, such as small limbs, gum balls, and
The Center will also start having an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459.
City of Mena fall clean up
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) 2348366 or (479) 216-3786.
Hatfield First Baptist Church “Shepherd’s Closet” Open Wednesdays, 10 a.m. - Noon. Large selection of good, used clothing & a limited supply of non-perishable food items. Free to anyone in need.
24 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Community
The Members, Firefighters & Board of directors of the Dallas Valley Ru ral Volunteer Fire Department will have their Annual Business Meeting and meal Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. The Meeting will be held at the Fire station on Old Airport Rd. or 229 Polk 52, starting at 5 p.m. There will be a donation boot available for any non-members who wish to attend. Please join us if you can.
Submitted by Christ’s Church of Cove
Daniel is passionate about preach ing the whole counsel of God. He looks forward to walking through God’s word and growing in Christ together with current and future members of the Church.
We welcome you to join us at 10 a.m. Sunday mornings as we walk through First Thessalonians and at 11 a.m. for worship as we examine the book of Psalms.
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.
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!
leaves be placed in garbage bags. Please place items at curbside prior to Oct. 24 to ensure they will be col lected.Pick-up will begin in the north west part of the city and follow the same routes as Southern Disposal across Mena.
American Legion meets every 2nd Tuesday at the Legion Hall in Acorn. Potluck at 6 p.m., meeting follows.
The Living Word Pentecostal Church in Hatfield would like to invite you to supper every Wednesday at 6 p.m. We are serving a free meal to our community. Every one is welcome. We would love your company. Located at 171 Johnson in Hatfield. Turn at Jordan’s Tire.
The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Help raise money for Shoeboxes! Bring the family out for food, fun & fellow ship. 100% of proceeds go toward Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Min istry. Spaghetti lunch, pie/cake auction, and cupcake walk. Cove First Baptist Church, 114 N. Middle St., Saturday, Oct. 1 at noon.
State funding for water projects
This November area residents will decide a number of races for elected office, both local and state. But this year’s midterm elections are also set to include one statewide ballot issue for voters to decide: recreational marijua na.After approving medical marijua na in 2016, Arkansas voters are now being asked to consider legalizing marijuana across the state as part of a growing shift across the nation.
Polk County approved for Livestock Feed Program
The $270 million in one-time grant funding for water, wastewater, and
Currently, 19 states, Washington, D.C., and Guam, have legalized the possession and personal use of mari juana for recreational purposes. Elev en states and D.C. had legalized mar ijuana through the ballot initiative process.
amendment, businesses that already hold licenses under the state’s medical marijuana program would be autho rized to sell marijuana for personal use. An additional 40 licenses would be given to businesses chosen by a lot tery. The Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Division of the Department of Finance and Administration would regulate the program and provide for cannabis business licensing.
stormwater infrastructure projects will be administered by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture through the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission. Projects will be deter mined for eligibility consistent with the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) Final Rule. Funding will be limited to a maxi mum of $5 million per entity for each project
The Polk County Farm Service Agency (FSA) Office has been no tified that, on July 26, 2022, Polk County rated a D3 on the Drought Monitor and met the requirements to Administer the Livestock Feed Program (LFP). Polk County FSA is taking applications for the 2022 LFP Program.Foradditional information, con tact the local FSA Office at 479-3941933 or stop by the office at 508 Sev enth Street in Mena.
Last year, Governor Hutchinson created a Water and Other Infra structure Working Group to assist the Arkansas American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Steering Committee in identifying water infrastructure proj ects. The working group conducted a needs survey that identified more than $5 billion in water, wastewater, and stormwater needs across the state.
Eligibletype.entities must apply for the grant funding by Friday, November 4, 2022. Applications and additional in formation on the grant program can be found at: a.m.Hopeclosestforentitiesduringmeetingster-and-wastewater-grant-program/american-rescue-plan-funding-waagriculture.arkansas.gov/.Aseriesofvirtualandin-personwillbeheldacrosstheStatetheapplicationperiodtoassistincompletingapplicationsfundingunderthisprogram.TheisscheduledforOct.26attheCommunityCenterfrom10to12noonthatday.
Last week Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced his intention on social media to vote against the ballot issue this fall.
Oklahoma is having its own battle, despite having 117,000 valid signa tures, over 20,000 more than required to place State Question 820 on the Oklahoma ballot. The Oklahoma Supreme Court is delaying its deci sion on whether the initiative will be placed on the ballot, providing a list of reasons that certain requirements have not been met or completed by certain deadlines. The courts must de cide on four different complaints as of lastAlso,week.last week, Arkansas Secre tary of State John Thurston ruled the Arkansas measure invalid. Thurston called the proposed constitutional amendment “insufficient” to appear on the ballot because the state Board of Election Commissioners did not “certify the ballot title and popular name” of the measure.
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The state is re leasing $280 million in federal money to help Arkansas cities, counties and other select entities fund for water-re lated infrastructure projects.
By Patrick Massey
Marijuana legalization measures are certified to appear on the 2022 bal lot in Maryland, Missouri, and South Dakota. Marijuana legalization mea sures could also appear on the ballot in Oklahoma and North Dakota.
The Arkansas Department of Agri culture announced the program last week. he approved funding, provided through the Arkansas American Res cue Plan Act, includes $270 million to address water, wastewater, and storm water infrastructure projects and $10 million to assist areas in Eastern Ar kansas with surface water and preser vation projects.
25 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 News
On Aug. 11, the Arkansas Supreme Court ordered the Secretary of State to certify a marijuana legalization initia tive for the election on Nov. 8. Votes on the initiative may not be counted pending a court ruling on the initia tive’s ballot
“The science is clear,” Hutchinson wrote on Twitter. “Recreational mar ijuana leads to increased drug use among minors and more dangerous roadways.”Themeasure would legalize mar ijuana use for individuals 21 years of age and older and authorize the com mercial sale of marijuana with a 10% sales tax. Adults could possess up to one ounce of marijuana. Under the
(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)
Responsiblelanguage.Growth Arkansas, the campaign behind the marijuana le galization initiative, submitted more than 190,000 signatures on July 8. The Arkansas secretary of state announced on July 29 that the campaign had sub mitted more than the required number of valid signatures (89,151) and would qualify for the ballot if the Arkansas State Board of Election Commission ers certified the ballot language.
Recreational marijuana to be on Arkansas ballot, but remains in limbo
Old Man Grimely was pontificating in the
I found a map with the layout of the food vendors’ section. I’ll get my granddaughter Evangeline to make me a spreadsheet and chart out the most logical route to follow to hit ev ery food booth and still walk the least. Kinda like an AAA TripTik showing the restaurants listed along the road. I read this again and probably have a few eating issues. “Issue” is the word highly educated folks with GED’s use stead of saying “problem.” I’ve been practicing by chomping on corn dogs while walk ing on sawdust in the barn.”
26 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Humor
Hogspore News:
“Believe”one-syllablebleernSomersaultsthink,us.you’vewhatnots.I’mweek.runninganotherWeneededalwaysgersforughsainbooks.didn’tsaid,awithCourse,ChanceCome-On-Give-Us-One-More-Dineronhowoldhewas.ifyoutakeeverythinghesaysagrainofsalt,youmightsufferstrokefromhighbloodpressure.He“WhenIwasakidinschool,wehavebookcoversforourtextWecarriedourwritingstonesprotectiveanimalskins.Iattendedone-caveclassroom.Ilearnedmyandgruntsthere.WehadtowalkanhourpasttheSaber-ToothedTiandtheT-Rexestogettoclass.Wetookourdogalongincaseweatreatforahungrymeateater.hadplentyofmuttsaroundtogetpet.”Tony’sBarbershopThinkTankwasonfumeswhenwemetthisFinally,wegotatopic.Whatnots.notgonnatellwhoofferedwhichYoumightlosetherespectbuiltupthroughtheyearsforHeretheyare:Descartessaid,“Itherefore,Iam.CallmeRene.”andsomearenot.Southpreacherstrytoturnatwo-syllawordintoaone-syllablewordorwordsintotwosyllables:begot“Bleive”or“Lord”be
got “Lordah.” Death is an allergic reac tion to life. The next woman I ask out is going to be blind. I don’t ever want to hear her say, “We should start seeing other people.” Don’t worry about look ing so young that older folks distrust you. You’ll outgrow that problem. Eat ing green beans at midnight. None of us knows what the last one means.
Old Man Grimely pontificating
The Muleberry County Fair opens on Friday the 30th. I’m daydreaming about chili dogs, corn dog, Philly cheese steaks, cotton candy, kettle corn, ele phant ears, left and right, deep-fried onion rings, pretzels on a stick, slaw burgers, etc. I used etc. cause I had to stop and get something to eat.
By Clet Litter as told to Bob Simpson
Contact at Bobsimpson1947@yahoo. com. You know you wanna.
However, the progress made (while good) was incomplete and a long time coming, and it still faced barriers which would likely require stronger and more effective means to break through. This accelerated in the 1950s starting not with Rosa Parks, but with Claudette Colvin.InMarch
approved. The first phase of the plan, the integration of Little Rock’s Central High School, would be implemented in September 1957. The second and third phases would be implemented in 1960 and 1963, respectively.
On September 9, the Little Rock School District issued a statement con demning the governor’s deployment of soldiers to the school and called for a citywide prayer service on September 12. President Dwight Eisenhower at tempted to de-escalate the situation by summoning Faubus for a meeting, warning him not to defy the Supreme Court’sWoodrowruling.Mann, the mayor of Little Rock, asked Eisenhower to send fed eral troops to enforce integration and protect the nine students. The presi dent responded by ordering the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army (without its Black soldiers) to Little Rock and federalized the entire Arkansas National Guard, taking it out of the hands of Faubus. This was the first time the federal government had sent troops to the South since the Re construction era.
Sixty-five years ago this week, Sep tember 24, 1957, the nine Black stu dents were admitted to Little Rock Central High under military protec tion. Known as the “Little Rock Nine”, they were: Ernest Green, Elizabeth Eckford, Jefferson Thomas, Terrence Roberts, Carlotta Walls, Minnijean
perceptions and convictions. Norms are not borne of new laws. A culture’s moral sensibilities and norms typically evolve over time through those percep tions and convictions and, with them, new and better laws often follow. A na tion’s civil social order often portends its laws, and many aspects of that order are determined by beliefs and customs rather than being created by good laws. As we should be very thankful for and supportive of the good laws which have come about in the arena of equal ity and civil rights, we should never forget that equality in a constitution al republic such as ours should not be defined or measured by predetermined outcomes mandated by the state (ex pressed today as equity) but a recogni tion of equality before God and before the law rooted in the inherent dignity of human beings as created in the im age of God. This is the heart of the un alienable rights to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
By Jeff Olson
1955, Ms. Colvin was a 15-year-old taking the bus home from high school in Montgomery, Alabama, when the bus driver ordered her to get up and she refused, saying she’d paid her fare and it was her constitution al right. Two police officers put her in handcuffs and arrested her. There were a number of other women who refused to give up their seats on the same bus system, but most of them were quietly fined, and no one heard much more.
27 THE POLK COUNTY Pulse September 21, 2022 News
The quest for civil rights in America is a long and arduous one. In fact, it can be traced all the way back to the earli est days of our republic. From then on, this quest has been an ongoing part of our history and it’s taken many forms, including a very costly war—a war that was as much about federalism and states’ rights as it was about slavery and freedom. Since then, much progress had been made toward securing equal rights for all but at the same time we still face challenges to this day.
Over two years later, in September 1957, Arkansas Governor Orval Fau bus refused to comply with the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision which called for the de segregation of all schools throughout theAfternation.the decision, the NAACP at tempted to register Black students in previously all-white schools in cities throughout the South, including Ar kansas. The Little Rock School Board agreed to comply with the high court’s ruling. The Superintendent of Schools submitted a plan of gradual integra tion to the school board on May 24, 1955, which the board unanimously
By the fall of 1957, the NAACP had registered nine African American stu dents to attend the previously all-white Little Rock Central High. The students were selected on the criteria of grades and attendance. Several segregationist councils threatened to hold protests at Central High and physically block the Black students from entering the school. Faubus deployed the Arkansas National Guard to support the segre gationists on September 4, 1957. The sight of a line of soldiers blocking out the students made national headlines and polarized much of the nation.
Reflections from History and Faith: Little Rock - 1957
While these and subsequent legisla tive achievements provided the legal basis needed to address discrimination, in no way could they provide the foun dational moral clarity and incentive on a personal level needed for such laws to be organically derived and fully effec tive and enduring. Law is fundamen tally rooted in ethical assumptions or norms initially derived from religious
Brown, Gloria Ray Karlmark, Thelma Mothershed, and Melba Pattillo Beals. While they did get to attend Central High, it didn’t come without the price of a year of physical and verbal abuse. From that time to the present, civil rights have remained a core cultural and political issue in America. During the same month as the Little Rock cri sis, the “Civil Rights Act of 1957” was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Eisenhower. Seven years later, the “Civil Rights Act of 1964” was passed and signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson.
Shade Trees on Playgrounds Program Accepting School Applications
With more than $3.7 billion in assets, the Farm Credit Associations of Arkan sas support rural communities and ag riculture across Arkansas with reliable, consistent credit and financial services today and tomorrow. In Arkansas, the Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas are owned by the more than 22,000 cus tomer-owners they serve. Through the cooperative structure, customer-owners have a voice and vote in the associations’ governance. Members also share in the cooperatives’ financial success through cooperative returns which total more than $293 million since 1997.
Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture of fers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
28 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Education
• Lack shade on a school playground
• Hold a tree-planting ceremony prior to December 16, 2022, (can be held with limited attendance and livestreamed or recorded for later playback to larger au dience)•Bewilling to maintain the trees after plantingApplicants may be any public or pri vate Arkansas school serving grades pre-K through 12, or a non-traditional educational facility such as a juvenile detention center, residential childcare institution, or long-term care facility that has a playground in need of more shad edLearnareas.more about Urban & Community Forestry services and programs at atculture.arkansas.gov479-228-7929questions,ban-community-forestryagriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/urwww..WithprogramcontactKristineKimbroatorkristine.kimbro@agri,orHaroldFisher501-580-4054or harold.fisher@agri culture.arkansas.gov
Selected schools receive up to five native shade trees, mulch, watering sup plies, and planting guidelines, through grant funding provided by the U.S. For est Service. Officials with the Forestry Division will help plant the trees during a ceremony with students this fall.
• Use provided curriculum resource materials to emphasize the importance of trees during the week(s) leading up to the tree-planting event
production, business, and legal issues through classroom instruction and hands-on field activities. This compre hensive approach is specifically designed for beginning farmers of fruit, vegetable, flowers, and herbs who are interested in selling to local and regional markets. The 2023 program starts January 23, with classes and farm work scheduled for Monday through Thursday from 8:30 to 12:30. The total cost of the pro gram is $2,500. More information about the Farm School can be found at Learn ToFarm.org.Selectionof scholarship recipients will be based on career goals, goals for farm/ ranch, experience, and financial need. Preference will be given to Arkansas Homegrown By Heroes members, but membership is not required.
Urban forestry staff began the STOP program 20 years ago to help lower adult skin cancer risk by reducing childhood exposure to direct sunlight on school playgrounds. Since then, approximate ly 150 Arkansas schools have received trees. The STOP program also pro vides teachers with curriculum resourc es about the environmental benefits of trees, how shade reduces skin cancer risks, and tips for keeping trees healthy.
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division is accepting applications for the 20-year anniversary of the Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) program through October 3, 2022. Arkansas schools needing additional shade on playgrounds can find the STOP program application and guidelines at ty-forestry/stop-program/arkansas.gov/forestry/urban-communiagriculture.
Homegrown By Heroes scholarship for agriculture training deadline extended
Trees native to Arkansas are cho-
sen by Forestry Division staff to fit the unique region and conditions of each playground. Sycamores, oaks, tulip pop lars, and black gum trees are common species for the program. To participate in the STOP program, a school must meet the following criteria:
• Participate in a virtual STOP work shop on October 7, 2022
• Involve students in tree-related proj ects that culminate with a school-wide tree-planting ceremony
“The STOP program combines handson, outdoor experiences with classroom curriculum about the importance of trees and how to care for trees,” said Urban & Community Forestry Coordinator, Kris tine Kimbro. “We hope this program not only improves the health of Arkansas students, but also leaves a lasting im pression about the value of community trees and how to be good stewards of our natural resources.”
The Arkansas Department of Agri culture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranch ers competitive in national and interna tional markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation.
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has extend ed the deadline to apply for the Home grown by Heroes scholarship that pro vides $1,000 to military veterans and active military personnel to attend the Farm School at the Center for Arkansas Farm and Food in Fayetteville.
Applications are due September 30, 2022 and are available specialtyThetyandprogramFood’sWesternCEOscholarships,”agriculturalservicegiveveteranskansastowayhonorsuccessfulthatitaryAgriculturecountrymenCreditgrown-by-heroes/veteransproductsaboutthemlocalthatDepartmentHomegrownFarmscholarshipriculture-programs/kansas.gov/arkansas-department-of-agat: agriculture.ar.FundingfortheisgenerouslyprovidedbyCredit.ThescholarshipsareaffiliatedwithByHeroes,anArkansasofAgricultureprogramhelpsfarmerveteransmarkettheiragriculturalproductsbylabelingasveteran-produced.LearnmoreHomegrownbyHeroesandfindgrownormadebymilitaryat arkansasgrown.org/home.“WeareproudtopartnerwithFarmtoprovideascholarshipfortheandwomenwhohaveservedourinthemilitary,”saysArkansasSecretaryWesWard.“Milservicemembershavemanyskillsmakethemgreatcandidatesforcareersinagriculture.Itisantoprovidethisscholarshipasaofthankingthemfortheirserviceourcountry.”“TheFarmCreditAssociationsofArappreciatetheserviceArkansasandcurrentmilitarypersonnelourcountry.WearepleasedtohelpmemberspursuecareersinthefieldbysponsoringthesesaidBrandonHaberer,andpresidentofFarmCreditofArkansas.TheCenterforArkansasFarmsandFarmSchoolisan11-monthattheMiloShultAgResearchExtensionCenterontheUniversiofArkansascampusinFayetteville.FarmSchoolcombineshands-oncropfarmingwithclassesin
(Photo courtesy of Mena Public Schools)
AHS senior Michael Laing recognized for College Board National Award
Submitted by Tammy L. Young
Pulse September 21, 2022 29 THE POLK COUNTY Education
Laing’s hard work to prepare for college paid off with honors from the @College Board’s National Recognition Programs and earning the College Board National Rural and Small Town Award. Colleges and scholarship programs use these hon ors to recruit students. Laing is a senior at Acorn High School and plans to study and pursue a career in pharmacy.
Students earn this recognition by ex
celling on their PSAT/ NMSQT, PSAT 10, or AP Exams and in their classrooms. Students who may be eligible have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have excelled on the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10, or earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP Exams; and are Afri can American or Black, Hispanic Ameri can or Latinx, Indigenous, and/or attend school in a rural area or small town. Eli gible students are invited to apply during their sophomore or junior year, and are awarded at the beginning of the next school year.
The Mena Public Schools were represented by (l-r) Ashlynn Watts, Tamara Smart, Teresa Warner and Celeste Ashcraft at the Thrive Leadership Academy on Wednesday, Sept. 14.
These National Recognition Programs grant underrepresented students with ac ademic honors that can be included on college and scholarship applications and connect students with universities across the country, helping them stand out during the admissions process. Colleges and scholarship programs use these hon ors to identify students from underrepre sented groups through College Board’s Student Search Service.
Congratulations to our own Michael Laing, who is one of 62,000 students from across the country to earn academic honors from the College Board’s National Recognition Programs.
Arkansas THRIVE is a collaborative project funded through American Rescue Plan to support districts in efforts in developing and sustaining a Multi-Tiered System of Support, so all students have access to the personalized academic, behavior, and mental health supports needed to be successful.
• 16th Place - Caden Tarkinton
Senior High Boys:
• 102nd Place - Ashlin Ford
30 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022Sports
• 44th Place - Jonah Rogan
ORSD XC Teams compete strong in Tom Stuthard Stampede
• 11th Place - Addi Ledbetter
Addi Ledbetter placed 11th in the junior high girls division during the Tom Stuthard Stampede. (Photo courtesy of ORSD)
• 54th Place - Shelby Rusert
• 29th Place - Kaitlynn Ledbetter
• 114th Place - Caden Ryan
• 37th Place - Josey Dollar
• 62nd Place - Jonathan Guevara
Ouachita River School District hosted the Tom Stuthard Stampede on Tuesday, Sept. 13, on the Acorn Schools’ cross country course. Junior high and senior high teams from 20-plus schools with 100-plus runners in each category competed in the meet on the Acorn campus.
• 112th Place - Jasper Dollar
• 77th Place - Ashton Fechuch
• 63rd Place - Eilam Holland
• 2nd Place - Chance Ragain
• 47th Place - Gage Davis
• 100th Place - Izabella Lozier
Submitted by Tammy L. Young
• 80th Place - Natalie Mabry
• 49th Place - Kloee Husser
Senior High Girls:
• 83rd Place - Zane Newton
• 13th Place - Annabella Tedder
• 119th Place - Max Schnell
• 66th Place - Mathew Lewis
Coached by ORSD XC and Track Coach Keith Willsey and competing from Ouachita River School District - Acorn and Oden junior and high school, athletes placement in the event included:
• 59th Place - Luke McAnelly
• 70th Place - Reed McGee
• 86th Place – Matthew Lyle
Junior High Girls:
• 20th Place - Braven Rodgers
Junior High Boys:
• 16th Place - Ethan Gilbert
• 98th Place - Lanee Powell
• 110th Place - Levi Starr
• 9th Place - Isaac Tedder
• 99th Place - Victoria Squires
• 88th Place - Olivia Tedder
• 96th Place - Mylee Sharp
Pulse September 21, 2022 31 THE POLK COUNTY Sports 9/21Golf - Cossatot @ Prescott (Boys District Round) Cross Country 09/27 - Mena @ Nashville Jr. 7-4A Conference 9/22Volleyball-Mena @ Waldron 9/24 - Mena @ LakesideTournament 9/26 - Mena @ Hot Springs 9/23Baseball - UARM @ Eastern Oklahoma State College 9/27 - UARM vs. Texas Post Grad Cross Country 9/24 - UARM @ Watson Invitational - Mississippi College 9/21Soccer - UARM @ Seminole State College (Women) 9/25 UARM Northernvs.College - Tonkawa (Men and Women) 9/22Softball - UARM Ouachita@Baptist University 9/24 - UARM vs. UA Monticello 9/25 - UARM vs. Arkansas Havoc Mena finished first in their pool at Saturday’s Jr. Ladycat Classic. They went on to beat Arkadelphia in the gold bracket semi-finals. They lost to Hackett in the championship game.
32 THE POLK COUNTY PulseSeptember 21, 2022 In the Business of YOU. Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender | www.ffb1.com | @FFBank1 Show WithSchoolYourSpiritAMascotDebitCard. There will be a $15 fee for each card issued.
