Polk County Pulse June 2, 2021

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

June 2, 2021

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Rain gauges observe double capacity

Memorial Day

INSIDE:

By Trey Youngdahl

Lum & Abner

Page 13-15

Ceremony held to honor sacrifice Defenders Boxing

Community members gather at the Polk County War Memorial Monday to observe Memorial Day at an event sponsored by the Elks Club. See more Memorial Day coverage on pages 22 -23.

Page 11

Mena residents were met with several days of off-and-on rain. Starting on May 17, the downpour continued through May 28. According to the National Weather Service, there was a total of 4.08 inches of rain, which is almost double the 2.18 inches observed last year.

The national average for this time of year is 2.54 inches, NWS personnel said.

The storm last week became hazardous when roads flooded and trees obstructed the roadways. On May 18, Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said there were reports of trees down in several places including Ransom Road, Polk 93, and Polk 45. Though Memorial Day weekend was relatively clear, meteorologists predict that we will have more rain throughout the next two weeks.

Suspect indicated in multiple crimes

Woman charged with hiding body in freezer reportedly used Ricin in burglary

By Jeri Pearson

Benny Weston

Page 3

A woman arrested on charges of killing her Oklahoma roommate and hiding her body in a freezer in Polk County is facing additional charges in Wisconsin.

On May 19, Wagoner County Oklahoma Investigators were contacted by the Wisconsin Dane County Sheriff ’s Office in reference to Kore D Bommeli. It was discovered that additional charges were brought against her for a

2014 incident.

The information received stated that on or about March or April 2014 Bommeli was implicated in a burglary in Dane County, Wisconsin, where she reportedly left white powder residue in numerous locations during the alleged burglary. Wisconsin Court Records show she pled guilty to charges stemming from the 2014 incident.

In July of 2020, Wagoner County Investiga-

See CHARGES continued on page 2

2 News

CHARGES

June 2, 2021 continued from page 1

tors contacted Dane County investigators in reference to a missing persons case. It was discovered that the victim from 2014 had some of the remaining white powder from the burglary that had occurred.

Upon the FBI testing the substance it was discovered that the white powder was Ricin, resulting in the Wisconsin National Guard was contacted, and specialists were called to assist with collection of any further evidence.

Wagoner County and Dane County investigators continued to work with the FBI and Arkansas State Police to collect evidence.

Bommeli’s anticipated charges are two counts of attempted First Degree Intentional Homicide.

In addition to the Warrant Hold from Dane County Sheriff ’s Office, Bommeli is in custody, suspected of killing her roommate, Talina Galloway, age 53, and hiding the victim in a freezer on

Happy Anniversary Rickey Morse Look how big our family has grown in 31 years!

Love, Donna

rural property in Polk County.

Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer said his deputies responded to a trespassing call June 8, 2020 to a property that was for sale.

“My deputy responded to that call and found one individual and a truck,” Sawyer said. “At that time, the individual said she was at the property because it was for sale and she was interested in purchasing it. There was no reason to detain her, but the tags on the truck were run and nothing came back.”

Due to a lack of information being available, there was no way for Polk County to know Bommeli or the truck were associated with a missing person case from Wagoner.

“The freezer was not found at that time.” Sawyer explained. “When it was found in January, it was 100 yards into the woods, and very unlikely she would have been able to move the freezer by herself.”

Sawyer said he has since learned Bommeli attempted to purchase the property and was in Polk County on occasion, but this information was not available to his office before the body was discovered.

Galloway was reported missing April 17, 2020 by Bommeli in Wagoner County.

The two lived in a lake community area of Wagoner County located on the west side of Fort Gibson Lake.

Wagoner County Sheriff ’s Office said, “Galloway did not have any im-

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FAST FACTS about Ricin: Initial symptoms of ricin poisoning by inhalation may occur as early as 4- 8 hours and as late as 24 hours after exposure.

Death from ricin poisoning could take place within 36 to 72 hours of exposure, depending on the route of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or injection) and the dose received. mediate family members in the Wagoner County area, so naturally we believed her roommate would be the best source of information …Kore Bommeli was merely a witness and the person reporting. .. “…investigators soon realized [she] exhibited suspicious behavior, gave inconsistent statements, and later was proven to be deceptive in her reporting of the circumstances surrounding the disappearance.. and Bommeli became a person of interest.

The Wagoner County Sheriff said in a press release that, “On June 8, 2020, a witness in the area of Polk County Arkansas observed a pickup towing a small, enclosed trailer. … The witness was suspicious of the activity and walked into the area where the witness believed the truck had traveled to. The witness located the truck and trailer and observed that at that time, there was nobody around the vehicle. The witness documented the tag number on the vehicle, and noted that there was foul odor coming from the trailer, and that there was a foul-smelling thick liquid pooled in the floor of the trailer.”

On Thursday, Jan.14, 2021, the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office was dispatched to a report of a freezer being found in a wooded area north of Acorn. Upon arrival, deputies opened the freezer and discovered human remains.

“Based on evidence at the scene and witness statements, it was determined that the remains had been there for several months,” Sawyer said. “Further investigation determined that the remains were possibly connected to

a missing persons case in Wagoner, Oklahoma.”

The Arkansas State Police assisted the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office in processing the scene and recovering the body. Investigators from the Wagoner County Sheriff ’s Office were contacted and also came to the scene.

Galloway’s disappearance was featured in Dateline’s “Missing in America” on May 25, 2020.

In June of 2020, Bommeli, was named as a person of interest in Galloway’s disappearance. At the time of Sheriff Elliot’s press conference, Bommeli was in custody on several charges including: felon in possession of a firearm, destruction of evidence, obstruction, fraud, and larceny.

On Thursday, January 21, 2021, warrants for 1st Degree Murder and Abuse of a Corpse were issued for Kore Bommeli by the Wagoner County Prosecuting Attorney, Jack Thorp.

Wagoner County investigators began searching for Bommeli who had bonded out on previous charges. Bommeli was believed to be in the area of Dane County, Wisconsin. Dane County Sheriff ’s located Bommeli and she was arrested without incident.

Bommeli faces charges of Murder in the 1st Degree and Desecration of a Human Corpse.

“The Wagoner Oklahoma Sheriff ’s Office has been working very hard on this case since last summer. They’ve done a great job and I am very happy that we could help them close out this tragic case and bring those responsible to justice,” Sawyer said.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

June 2, 2021

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Weston accepts new position at Education Coop Photo courtesy Mena Public Schools The Mena School Board presented Superintendent Benny Weston with a plaque at the May meeting in appreciation of his nine years of service to the district. Weston has accepted a new position as director of the DeQueen Mena Education Service Cooperative.

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4 Education

Pulse Webb selected for Internships

June 2, 2021

Students pass Praxis ParaPro Photos courtesy Mena Public Schools Congratulations to Lauren Sikes, Emily Wagner, Leilani Day, and Madyson Birtcher for passing the Praxis ParaPro Test recently at the University of Arkansas at Rich Mountain. Their scores qualified them to apply for and also receive the Certified Teaching Assistant Credential through the Arkansas Department of Education. This certification allows them to be qualified to work as a ParaProfessional at a public school or at a child or adult care center. The students are currently enrolled in the Methods of Teaching Class at Mena High School.

THE POLK COUNTY

Josey Webb has been hired as summer intern for Arkansas Farm Bureau.

Webb will intern for Organization and Member Programs, Public Affairs and Government Relations and Commodity and Regulatory Affairs departments. She will be responsible for doing research, collecting commodity and agriculture industry data, updating and editing Farm Bureau materials, and assisting with special events.

Webb is from Acorn (Polk County) and is a rising senior at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia. Her major is Animal Science, with a minor in Mass Communications. She is a part of the honors college, former vice president of the Collegiate Farm Bureau, former president of Ag Club, President Ambassador, a member of Polk County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee and philanthropy chair for Sigma Alpha Beta Rho. She has also been on the Dean’s List at SAU since her freshman year.

“I grew up on a family farm, so Farm Bureau has always been a big part of my life growing up,” said Webb. “I’ve always appreciated the fact that Farm Bureau gave local farmers someone in their corner. I hope to be a part of that support system as well.”

THE POLK COUNTY

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State News 5

June 2, 2021

From the

State House of Representatives Directly behind the Capitol at the VA hospital or pick stands a monument honoring up the tab for the table with those Arkansas families who a soldier at a restaurant. sacrificed more than most.

We can also honor the The Gold Star Family Melives lost by remembering morial Monument reminds us and retelling their stories. daily here at the Capitol that We can recognize their without those sacrifices, our John Maddox sacrifices by taking care freedom could not and would of their comrades who not have been preserved. served. In the Arkansas legislature, Arkansas has citizens in nearly ev- we strived to do just that. In recent ery community willing to make such years, we’ve eliminated taxes on milisacrifices. tary retirement and survivor benefits.

Whether they volunteered, served And just this year, we established the during peacetime, or never expected Arkansas Military Affairs Council to serve until their draft card arrived, Act and Military Affairs Grant Prothose who wear our nation’s uniform gram. The council will work with the represent the best America has to of- Arkansas Economic Development fer.

Commission to promote and support Honoring our veterans with words military installations for state and loalone falls terribly short if we do not cal economic development. bring those words to life by honoring President Franklin Roosevelt once them equally with our deeds. said, “Those who have enjoyed such We can always offer our support. privileges as we enjoy, forget in time We can place flags and wreaths at that men have died to win them.” their graves. We can donate to chariMay we all remember them this ties that provide for their families.

Memorial Day and commit to living Business owners can offer a special a life every day worthy of their sacveteran discount. We can volunteer rifice.

Contact Your Legislators!

John Maddox

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

Larry Teague

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

John Boozman

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

Bruce Westerman

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

From the

State Senate

State and local governments funds from the ARP can are preparing to receive a large most efficiently be spent. infusion of federal aid, under The members are nine cabthe American Rescue Plan of inet secretaries and six legis2021. Schools and universities lators, three from the Senate in Arkansas also are receiving and three from the House of federal funds.

Representatives.

The amount of federal fundThe legislature has final ing is unprecedented. State approval on all spending Larry Teague government will get $1.57 bilproposals by state agencies lion. The 75 counties in Arkansas will constitutional offices. Earlier this year get $586 million. Arkansas cities will the legislature passed Act 997 of 2021 get about $425 million. Each city’s al- to establish the process for submitlocation will depend on its population. ting and getting approval of funding Arkansas schools are set to receive requests, in anticipation of the large $1.25 billion. Universities and colleges amount of federal funding that would will receive $363 million. flow into Arkansas from the American The virus has caused the deaths of Rescue Plan. almost 6,000 people in Arkansas. Almost 36,000 have contracted the virus New District Boundaries and more than 16,000 have been hosThe Board of Apportionment held pitalized. More than 1,600 have had to its first meeting, to plan for drawing be on a ventilator. new boundaries for the state’s four Medical bills can devastate a fami- Congressional Districts. Later this ly’s finances. Even in households that year, when the U.S. Census Bureau has stayed healthy, the loss of employment new numbers on population growth was a financial blow. Especially hard in Arkansas, the board will redraw hit were the travel, hospitality and the boundaries of the 35 state Senate tourism industries. districts and the 100 districts in the Government entities can use ARP House. The population of each new funds to recover from the loss of rev- district will be roughly the same. enue caused by the pandemic. Their The Board of Apportionment has budgets were strained by increased three members – the governor, the demand for social services. Also, ARP attorney general and the secretary of funds can be spent to improve health state. The Census Bureau provides in communities that suffered the brunt new data every 10 years. of the pandemic’s impact.

In 2010, state Senate districts had The funds can be spent to prepare vastly different populations because for possible future pandemics, such of unequal growth over the previous as purchasing medical supplies and decade. equipment, or training more people in In fast-growing northwest Arkanhealth professions. sas a Senate district had more than The funds can be spent on necessary 116,000 residents, while a rural area of improvements to water, sewer and southeast Arkansas had a district with broadband infrastructure. The federal fewer than 64,000 residents. money cannot be used to pay for tax However, after redistricting by the cuts, and cannot be deposited in pub- Board of Apportionment, all 35 state lic pension systems.

Senate districts were close to 83,311 in The governor has appointed a population. Since 2010 similar popu15-member steering committee to lation trends have occurred, and the identify the most pressing needs in Board will again equalize the populaArkansas, and to recommend how tion of legislative districts.

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

June 2, 2021

Beverly Annette WatkinsBledsoe Mrs. Beverly Annette Watkins Bledsoe, age 85, of Hatfield passed away Tuesday, May 25, 2021 in Mena, Arkansas.

Beverly was born June 14, 1935 in Baraboo, Wisconsin, to the late Lester Watkins and the late LaVeta Haskins Watkins. After graduating high school Beverly attended nursing school and meet the love of her life, Bill Bledsoe.

After their marriage in 1955 she became a loving homemaker, ensuring that her home remained beautiful and comfortable for her family to enjoy.

Beverly enjoyed traveling, she especially loved Alaska. She also loved to read and sew. Mrs. Bledsoe was a member of the Hatfield Baptist Church for many years.

Beverly was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, and friend. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Beverly is survived by her grandchildren, Harley Davison and wife Debbie of Glenrose, Texas, Bonnie Peterson and husband Heath of Mena, Arkansas, Jennifer Zarnes and husband David of Hatfield, Arkansas, Amanda Sorel and husband Eddie of Mena, Arkansas, and Rebecca Scull and husband Shane of

Little Rock, California; twenty great grandchildren, and eight great-great grandchildren.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill Bledsoe; one son, Bruce Dann Bledsoe; one daughter, Robyn Davison; and one sister, Laveta Jean Scnell.

Graveside services will be held 10:00 am Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at Ten Mile Cemetery in Madisonville, Texas. Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 30, 2021 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the funeral home.

Services are under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Bobby Lee Galloway Bobby Lee Galloway age 74, of Mena, Arkansas died on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at the Mena Regional Health System in Mena, Arkansas. He was born on Thursday, February 6, 1947 to Claude and Othel Raines Prine in Winnsboro, Texas.

Bobby was a Christian man who attended the Dallas Avenue Baptist Church in Mena. He was united in marriage for 47 years to his loving wife Gale. Bobby served in the Navy where he was an active member of the mili-

tary transport team that recovered fallen soldiers by helicopter while serving in Vietnam. After moving to Mena, Bobby took a great interest in gardening. He especially loved caring for his fruit trees and raising vegetables from his garden. Bobby enjoyed listening to country music and racing motorcycles.

He was very accomplished at racing motorcycles and had placed 3rd in the big state race in Arizona. He was a machinist and loved to work on cars. Bobby was proud of the two classic cars he owned and enjoyed tinkering on them whenever given the opportunity. He was a hard worker and was always willing to lend a helping hand to others in need. Bobby was superb at everything he did because he felt anything worth doing was worth doing right. Bobby was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Othel Prine; and one sister, Glenda.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Gloria Gale Galloway of Mena; one son and daughter in law, Jon and Jessica Galloway of Las Vegas, Nevada; two grandchildren, Jasmine Galloway and Charissa Galloway of Las Vegas, Nevada ; one niece, Tammy; and two nephews, Wayne and David; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at 2:00 P.M. at the Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to

Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com Serving Our Community One Family at a Time...

Gene Arlon Davis

Gene Arlon Davis, age 86, passed away on May 22, 2021 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was born February 14, 1935 in Ink, Arkansas to Haskell and Delma Davis.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers: Brant, Richard, Jerry, Bill, and Hughie, 2 granddaughters: Katie and Lyndsey.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years Lorraine Davis, 3 siblings: Frank, Ozella, and Dolena. His 8 children: Laura, Pam, Debra, Ronnie, Carey, Jerry, Bobby, and Brandy; 17 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

Gene loved fishing, hunting, and telling stories. His favorite past-time was watching Tom and Jerry with his grandchildren. He is dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gene Davis, please visit our floral store. d an i e l s f u n e r a l. c om / o bitu ar y / Gene-Davis

‘Do you know that a man is not dead while his name is still spoken?’

-Terry Pratchett

View obituaries online at mypulsenews.com

THE POLK COUNTY

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Faith 7

June 2, 2021

An Arkie’s Faith: Quiet Reflection

By Richie Lawry Silence has spread through the house. The quiet is deafening as I sit typing. Both of my dogs are sleeping, and my wife is quietly working on her iPad. The street in front of my house is empty. There are no cars driving past or neighbor kids playing. Even the birds that were singing with boisterous voices earlier in the day are now silent.

Just a few hours ago, the happy sounds of children filled the house while the adults talked, relishing our time together. Happy memories lit up the room as we swapped stories, and even as we recalled bittersweet anecdotes, it did not dampen the joyous mood. Memorial Day weekend has been extra special because we have family visiting. It has been a time to get reacquainted with a cousin that I haven’t seen for many years and meet her three children for the first time.

The kids had a great time meeting family they had never seen before. They loved playing on our deck, swinging on the porch swing, riding the joggling board, and especially playing with our dogs. I took them for a ride in the Model A, and they loved riding in the rumble seat. Their favorite activity of the weekend was visiting my cousins’ house and swimming in their pool. The water was cool, but they didn’t mind.

When it came time for them to leave, the kids didn’t want to go. We promised that we would come to see them when we could. They wanted to know if we would bring our dogs, but we told them that our dogs got carsick and didn’t travel well. Now that they are on the road back home and the house is quiet, I’m looking forward to the time I will be able to see them again.

As I reflect on the lovely weekend

with family and recall the many stories and memories that we shared, I think about how fitting it was to have those conversations on Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day is a day for remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. We spent a lot of our time remembering family members who are no longer with us. Remembering is what keeps loved ones with us after they are gone.

A local hero that we remember on Memorial Day is Herbert Littleton. He was a United States Marine who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for saving his fellow soldiers by falling on a grenade during the Korean War. Herbert Littleton was born on July 1, 1930, in Mena, Arkansas. He enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve on July 29, 1948, for a one-year term. After the outbreak of the Korean War, Littleton reenlisted. He fought in South and Central Korea from December 17, 1950, until his death.

Littleton earned the nation’s highest award for valor on April 22, 1951, at Chungehon, Korea. He was serving as a Radio Operator with the First Marine Division. PFC Littleton was standing watch when a sizeable well-concealed enemy force launched a night attack against his company. Littleton quickly alerted the forward observation team and immediately moved into position to call down artillery fire on the enemy force. When the enemy threw a hand

grenade into his area, he threw himself on the grenade, absorbing its full impact with his own body.

He saved the other team members from severe injury or death by his prompt action and enabled them to repulse the enemy attack. Herbert Littleton was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in the face of certain death.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. gave a speech on Memorial Day in 1884. He ended his address with the words, “Our dead brothers still live for us, and bid us think of life, not death.” I believe that Holmes’ proposition to “think of life, not death” honors the fallen soldiers such as Herbert Littleton. Their sacrifice follows the example of Jesus, who gave His life for our freedom. The sacrifice that Littleton made for his comrades in arms and the sacrifice that Jesus made for you and me both show a selfless love for others.

The Bible describes this type of real love in John 15: 13 (NKJV) “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” And also, in 1 John 3:16 (NLT), “We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.” Herbert Littleton demonstrated this kind of love.

Many people sacrificed their lives for my freedom. But how often do I think about what they have done for me? I might think about them for a few minutes on Memorial Day, but they are not in my thoughts on most days.

How often do I reflect on the sacrifice that Jesus made for me? Many Christians only think about what Jesus has done for them at times like Easter and Christmas.

In Luke 9:23 (NKJV), Jesus says, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” We need to thank God for the sacrifice of Jesus every day, not just once or twice a year or even once a week. “Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.” Hebrews 13:15 (AMPC) Gentle Reader, we are blessed to be living in a free country. We should honor the soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the liberty we have. We should also thank God for the freedom he has given us. In Romans 6:22,23 (TPT), Paul wrote, “now, as God’s loving servants, you live in joyous freedom from the power of sin. So consider the benefits you now enjoy—you are brought deeper into the experience of true holiness that ends with eternal life! For sin’s meager wages is death, but God’s lavish gift is life eternal, found in your union with our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One.” I hope that you spent at least a few moments on Memorial Day in quiet reflection, remembering those who sacrificed their lives for your freedom. And every day, it is essential to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made for you. During times when your mind feels cluttered and overwhelmed, be quiet and reflect on Jesus. Quiet reflections can soothe your soul.

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8 History

June 2, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Reflections from History and Faith: D-Day Plus 77 Years

By Jeff Olson

There are certain events in American history which have a perennial home in this column. This is because those events were especially consequential and pivotal to the future course of not only America but for the world. One of those is history's largest and most consequential amphibious military opera-

Celebrating & Remembering the

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tion. I hope this brief account will not only be informative, but may also serve as an impetus to inspire you to learn more because within this epic event can be found individual acts of courage and sacrifice unequaled in the annals of human endeavor and military history. And, I think you also will discover that there was much more than just humanity, circumstances and chance involved. As expressed in a prayer offered by Lt Col Robert L. Wolverton to his battalion shortly before the D-Day parachute drop behind enemy lines. It reads in part, “God almighty, in a few short hours we will be in battle with the enemy. We do not join battle afraid. We do not ask favors or indulgence but ask that, if You will, use us as Your instrument for the right and an aid in returning peace to the world."

After France fell to the Nazis in 1940 during World War II, the idea of an Allied invasion of Western Europe began to develop. The Allies understood that

in order for the Germans to be soundly defeated they would have to eventually be driven back to their homeland. The decision to undertake a cross-channel invasion was addressed at the Trident Conference in May 1943. At the Quebec Conference in August 1943, Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt accepted the initial draft of the plan, which was code-named Overlord. The decision to mount the invasion was cemented at the Teheran Conference held in November and December 1943.

Dwight D. Eisenhower described the assemblage of Allied forces in Britain for the D-Day invasion of northern France as "a great human spring, coiled for the moment when its energy would be released and it would vault the English Channel in the greatest amphibious assault ever attempted."

Seventy-seven years ago this week, that assault occurred on the beaches of Normandy. The Normandy campaign involved 39 Allied divisions, totaling over one million military personnel, including the combined forces of 156,115 U.S., British and Canadian troops,

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6,939 ships and landing vessels, 13,000 aircraft and 867 gliders that delivered airborne troops. Those crossing the English Channel faced a German force of more than 50,000 troops, well-fortified across a 50-mile front. Anticipating an Allied invasion somewhere along the French coast, the Germans completed construction of the Atlantic Wall, a 2,400-mile line of bunkers, landmines and beach and water obstacles. It’s estimated that the Nazis planted 4 million landmines along Normandy’s beaches.

The invasion was originally set for Monday June 5 but bad weather and rough seas forced a delay. On the morning of June 5, Eisenhower, assured by his chief meteorologist of a break in the weather, announced, “O.K. We'll Go.” In his message, sent just prior to the invasion, the general told the troops, "...

You are about to embark upon a great crusade...The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty loving people everywhere march with you....you will bring about the destruction of the German war machine,

HISTORY continued on page 10

THE POLK COUNTY

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Outdoors 9

June 2, 2021

OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL

COMMON HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

By Steven E Stillwell Years ago, I went varmint hunting with an older friend and when we reached our destination, he plucked two plastic trash-bags out of his day pack, handed me one, and told me to sit on it. I looked at him and said, “Great idea.” The ground was damp and soggy, because it had been raining for several days.

I never forgot that trick, and I’ve used it more times than I can count. In a pinch, knowing how to use common household items can make things a lot easier in the field, and in certain situations, they can even save your life.

So, what are some of the alternative uses for a Hefty bag, or its generic counterpart? If you have a couple of extra large ones, you can cut, and sting them together to make an improvised shelter, or a lean-to. If you’re caught in a downpour, and you’re several miles down the trail, this tip will help keep you and your equipment dry. The best thing about carrying a few plastic bags in your daypack is the fact that they weigh next to nothing, they’re easy to stow, and they don’t take up a lot of room! Bags without leaks can also be used to collect rainwater.

Cordage always becomes a necessity when you’re staying in the wilderness for prolonged periods, and strands of plastic twisted together using the traditional method are extremely stout. Fishing lines, snares, makeshift bowstrings and other items can be Bushcrafted, so use your imagination. The best survival tool you possess is your mind, and those who think outside of the proverbial box always

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thrive, because they have this advantage.

One time while hunting, I was forced to use a trash-bag as an improvised raincoat, and it worked. I was able to safely hike out, before the temperature dropped to an uncomfortable level and the cold front finished blowing through. In certain situations, it’s wise to wait things out and hunker down until the storm passes. Knowing your limitations and not exceeding them is one of the best survival tips I can share. It’s also prudent to be able to gauge how far you can safely walk in an hour, or a day through various terrains. In most conditions, a physically fit person can travel faster on flat, level areas than they can, traversing steep, rocky mountains.

DISCLAIMER: The following are some of the things that you should never use a trash-bag for; a bullet-proof vest, parachute, hot air balloon, hula dress, bull fighting cape, toupee, dreadlock extensions, gasoline container, gift wrapping for your mother-in-law’s birthday present, and an aquarium.

Common sense, a willingness to learn, and lots of patience are some of the attributes that it takes to add to your skill-sets. THE MORE YOU KNOW, THE FURTHER YOU CAN GO. If you have any interesting tips or tricks, I’d like to hear about them. I’m confident that the other members in our survival group would like to find out too.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT. Last week, we added over 150 new members to the OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL, page. With this steady rate of growth, we should easily surpass 1,000 members in a couple more days. If you’d like to share, or learn more, we invite you to join us on Facebook. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome!

Free Wigs, Breast Prosthesis, and Other Outreach Services Available: Gas Cards Utility Bills Lodging Volunteer Transportation Support Suppo Groups

Room of Hope

OUR PURPOSE: To inspire, encourage, and restore hope for persons affected by cancer and hair loss disorders.

Clarice's Room of Hope is a local Non-Profit 501(c)3 Organization. All donations are tax deductible.

PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING, SO THAT WE MAY CONTINUE TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY

10 History

HISTORY continued from page 8

the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world. Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped and battle-hardened.

He will fight savagely....I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory! Good luck, and let us all beseech the blessings of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking." Prior to the invasion, General Eisenhower prepared two statements.

One was to be opened if the invasion was a success and in it he credited this to his field commanders and soldiers: The other statement was to be opened if the invasion was a failure. In the latter, he stated, "My decision to attack at this time and place was based on the best information available. The troops, the air and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt, it is mine alone."

Minesweepers had gone ahead to clear the water and thousands of paratroopers dropped behind enemy lines to capture bridges and railroad tracks. At dawn, June 6, 1944, battleships opened fire on the beaches and at 6:30 am troops from America, Great

June 2, 2021

Britain, Canada and France stormed ashore releasing that tense coiled spring that the General described.

One commander told his men that only two types of people would stay on the beach, those dead and those going to die, so they had better push forward - and push forward they did!

At D-Day's end, all five landing beaches had been secured and at a cost of approximately 10,000 Allied casualties, including more than 4,400 dead. By the end of June 11, 326,547 troops, 54,186 vehicles and 104,428 tons of supplies had been landed on the beaches. In addition to the troops who landed in Normandy on D-Day and those in supporting roles at sea and in the air, hundreds of thousands more men and women in the Allied countries were involved in the preparations for D-Day. They played many different roles, both in the armed forces and as civilians. By the end of July, Allied forces had broken through the German lines into open country establishing a toehold in northern Europe. The enemy's retreat inland was underway, marking the beginning of the end for Nazis Germany.

At D-Day plus three, Private Robert Healey of the 149th Combat Engineers and a friend decided to

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse go down the bluff at Omaha Beach to retrieve their packs. "When we walked down to the beach, it was just an unbelievable sight. There was debris everywhere, and all kinds of equipment washing back and forth in the tide. Anything you could think of seemed to be there. On the way back I came across what was probably the most poignant memory I have of this whole episode. Lying on the beach was a [deceased] young soldier, his arms outstretched. Near one of his hands, as if he had been reading it, was a pocketbook (what today would be called a paperback). It was 'Our Hearts Were Young and Gay' by Cornelia Otis Skinner. This expressed the spirit of our ordeal.

Our hearts were young and gay because we thought we were immortal, we believed we were doing a great thing, and we really believed in the crusade which we hoped would liberate the world from the heel of Nazism." Indeed it did, and may we always remember their sacrifice with a heart of gratitude and respect - and honor them with a commitment of our own to continue the fight for the freedom which they so gallantly fought for and won.

QUOTES FROM OUR ELDERS

"It's the people [staff] that make the difference in peoples' lives."

"If they needed therapy or longtime care, this is the place to go."

"I've never been so happy in my life. I dearly love it."

L O C A T E D I N M E N A , A R K A N S A S • ( 4 7 9 ) - 3 37 - 7115 • W W W . H O M E W O O D G H C . C O M

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Boxers honor McBee in memorial show

Courtesy Photos/ Defenders Boxing

Mena’s Defenders Boxing Club hosted Mena’s 3rd amateur boxing show Saturday, May 1 at the First Baptist Church fellowship hall for the Joshua McBee Memorial Boxing Show. Boxers, coaches, family members, and boxing officials from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana competed in an afternoon of 19 exciting bouts.

Mena boxers went 4-1 for the day. First up for Mena was Dyllen Oates in his amateur debut. He faced off against a young man from Fort Smith Boxing Club. Oates held his own and showed determination, but came up a little short on score cards.

Ciara Self made her return to the ring after being out for year-and-a-half because of the pandemic. Self pounded out a unanimous win over a great, young lady from Ashley County Boxing, improving her record to a perfect 2-0.

Brayden Falkner made his second entrance into the competition ring and he did not disappoint the local fans or the crowd. He took on a talented boxer from Pine Bluff Arkansas’s Gloves Not Guns boxing, bringing the win home. Falkner’s record is now a perfect 2-0. Falkner has been boxing for less than a year.

Next up was Mena’s only adult on the card, Lance Wolf. He faced an awesome young boxer from Little Rock’s Straight Right Boxing. Wolf gutted out a hard earned win, bringing home the hardware.

Last on the list was Zack Willis,. making his seventh appearance in the squared circle. Willis drew a far more experienced open division boxer from Gloves Not Guns boxing, and boy, did these two go to war. Willis got off to a slow start, suffering a standing 8-count in the first round. However, he gave way more than he got.

He dug deep, brought his heart out, and turned the fight around. From then on, it was all out war, in which Willis scored a TKO stoppage in the third round. Willis brought home the Fight of the Night award, as well as increasing his record to 4-3.

The crowd was awesome and kept this memorial show for Joshua’s Family at a fever pitch. Defenders’ own Jeremiah Hexamer made his ring announcer debut on this one, keeping things flowing nicely.

NEED HELP PAYING THAT LATEST UTILITY BILL? POLK COUNTY ENERGY ASSISTANCE Salvation Army 479-437-3110 ARVAC 479-394-4707 Nin Ninth Street Ministries 479-394-2541

Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve

515 Janssen Ave, Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-4140 W W W. R M E C . C O M

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June 11-13 Free Fishing Weekend in Arkansas

Thanks to a proclamation by Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced today, anyone may fish in Arkansas without a fishing license or trout stamp from noon Friday, June 11, through midnight Sunday night, June 13. The proclamation was read at today’s commission meeting by Megan Perkins, agriculture liaison to Hutchinson’s office.

An annual tradition sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and approved by Gov. Hutchinson, Free Fishing Weekend gives many people the opportunity to enjoy the amazing angling The Natural State has to offer. Residents and nonresidents may fish without a fishing license or trout permit. All other regulations, such as daily limits and size restrictions on certain bodies of water, still apply during this weekend.

The AGFC will host special fishing derbies at four of its freshwater hatch-

eries June 12 in celebration of the annual event.

“This year we are excited to announce that not only youth, but the entire family may come out and fish with us at our warmwater hatcheries,” said Ben Batten, chief of the AGFC’s Fisheries Division. “Unfortunately we will not be able to conduct a fishing derby at the Spring River trout hatchery in Mammoth Spring, but all other hatcheries will be available to Arkansans. People will need to register in advance to ensure we have adequate space and parking on the hatchery grounds, but we look forward to a return to the hatchery derbies after they had to be canceled last year.”

Visit www.agfc.com/en/education/ calendar/annual-event/free-fishing-weekend-statewide-2021 for more information on Free Fishing Weekend and the hatchery derbies planned.

Local Provider: Dr. Carlos Rocha Mena: 479-394-2534 DeQueen: 870-642-2150

Lum & Abner 13 June 2, 2021 Pulse 44th Lum and Abner Festival scheduled for this weekend THE POLK COUNTY

The Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission would like to invite you to join the fun at the 44th Annual Lum & Abner Music and Arts Festival, June 4th & 5th, 2021. Voted “Best New Festival in Arkansas” in 2006 by the Arkansas Festival & Events Association and “Top 20 Events in the Southeast” in 2010 by the Southeast Tourism Society, the festival has received statewide publicity in various newspapers, specialty publications, and television.

Show is from 8 a.m. to 11a.m. on Saturday, June 5th. No pre-registration is required. Enjoy a great selection of beautiful cars, trucks, corvettes and motorcycles displayed in the historic Janssen Park. Registration fee is $20.

Event t-shirts available to first 75 entries. Dash plaques and sponsor provided goodie bags for first 100 entries.

Live music and sponsor provided door prizes round out the event. Awards to be presented at 3 p.m. This event sponsored by the Mena Lions Club.

Live Entertainment on the Festival Stage Great music has become a hallmark of the Lum & Abner Festival. Both days there will be live music on the Aleshire Electric Entertainment Stage or Visit Mena Stage from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m, from top Arkansas artists.

Friday, June 4th • 10:00am – Keena Ashcraft, National Anthem • 12:00pm – Backroad Revival • 2:00pm – RearVue Mirror • 4:00pm – Spa City Young Bloods • 6:00pm – Lana Gail • 8:00pm – Gypsy Sally Saturday, June 5th • 10:00am – Marissa Dawn • 12:00pm – MJ and the Geezers • 2:00pm – Brothers & Sons • 4:00pm – Zach Davis • 6:00pm – Brick Fields • 8:00pm – 3 Penny Acre See the Festival’s schedule of events for a complete list of entertainment acts. Don’t forget your lawnchairs for this free concert!

Flying Houndz Frizbee Trick Dog Show Both days of this year’s festival, you will have the opportunity to see the high flying hounds who have been featured on Good Morning America and the Today Show, perform their feats in Janssen Park. These talented canines will offer three shows a day so make sure to check the schedule of events. We can guarantee that you'll want to catch their performance more than once!

Lum & Abner Car, Truck, Corvette & Motorcycle Show Presented by the Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission, registration for the Lum & Abner Car, Truck, Corvette, Motorcycle & Side-by-Side

Vendors Vendors from nearby states, as well as local crafters, artisans, and more will be offering their items at this year’s festival. Vendors include a wide variety of arts & crafts –with many located

Lawbreakers & Peacemakers Gunfighter Group The Lawbreakers & Peacemakers Gunfighter Group will take the audience into a colorful past with legendary, historical and humorous re-enactments! The group will entertain from their own Old West Town setup in the park providing a mixture of comedy and melodrama to educate spectators.

These family and kid friendly shows will take place throughout the day on Friday and Saturday and has become a Lum & Abner Festival favorite.

in the Union Bank of Mena’s Big Arts and Crafts Tent and the First Financial Bank Night Owl Tent. Food vendors will offer some tasty treats, such as, nachos, tacos, hamburgers along with festival favorites like funnel cakes, pork rinds, corn dogs, and kettle corn.

Ouachita Little Theatre Reenactments The Ouachita Little Theatre will be holding two performances each day of some classic Lum & Abner Reenactment Skits. These will be held at 12:00pm and 2:00pm on Friday and Saturday.

5K Walk/Run This year’s Lum & Abner Festival 5K Walk/Run – sponsored by the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain– will both start and end at Janssen Park, going by the childhood home of Chet Lauck – “Lum. The event will kick off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 5th. Registrations will be accepted until 7:30 am on race day. Entry fee is just $30 and includes a Lum & Abner 5K Walk/Run t-shirt. First, Second and Third place winners in each division will be awarded medals.

3 on 3 Basketball Always a popular event is the Lum & Abner Festival 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament held on Sherwood Avenue.

The winning teams will receive medals.

Registrations will be honored until 9 am. The tournament begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 5th.

Fishing Derbies Once again being organized by the local B.P.O.E. (Elks) with assistance by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, the derbies will offer 3 different categories: Seniors (55+), physically challenged and children ages 5-12. See

schedule for exact times for each division. The derbies will be held at the ponds in Janssen Park. There is no need to pre-register and no cost to participate. Bring your own tackle and bait.

RE/MAX Baby Crawlin’ Contest The festival that claims “something for everyone” holds true to the claim!

Mena RE/MAX sponsors this event which is held on Saturday of the festival. Registration is on-site and race times are at 10:15 am and 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, June 5th. For additional information, contact Mena RE/MAX at 479-394-5000.

Firefighter’s Challenge Back again this year is the Firefighter’s Challenge and includes fun events such as Full PPE Donning, Speed Hose Connection, Wild Line Recovery, and the Water Ball Fight. Both local and out of town fire departments will be competing.

Kiddie Korner The Kiddie Korner will be located near the playground area of Janssen Park. Besides the playground, children can also enjoy inflatables including a slide, obstacle course and bounce house. Other activities will be available for children throughout the park including a rock wall, Zorbi Balls, demos, interactive vendors and kids’ games.

T-Shirts, Maps & Info The festival “office” will be at the historic cabin in Janssen Park. Souvenir t-shirts and coffee mugs will be on sale and maps and brochures on the area will be available. Festival staff will be wearing yellow staff shirts and be throughout the park during the festival to offer assistance.

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Lum & Abner 15

16 Sports

Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC

1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953

479-394-4200 hollyspringsrealestate.com HERSHEL IS READY TO OPEN DOORS FOR YOU! Commercial, Residential, Farm and Ranches, with 35 years of knowledge in the poultry and cattle industry.

Let Hershel open the door on your next real estate transaction.

Hershel Bell

Executive Broker

479-243-5613

hbell.hollysprings@gmail.com

THE POLK COUNTY

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June 2, 2021

21015500 - Truly Amazing Home!

Bring your friends to lounge by the pool, new pump installed last summer, the pool liner is 2 years old, gas line is in place to heat the pool. Privacy fence.

New flooring and remodeled inside to perfection. Beautiful custom ceiling in the kitchen. Insulated windows and new siding in 2013. 4 bedroom with a small extra room upstairs. Greenhouse does not convey. $225,000

Bearcat Football Courtesy Mena Public Schools The Mena Bearcat football team recently completed two weeks of spring football.

The Bearcats will now turn their focus to a summer filled with organized workouts and summer camps.

"Spring football for us is the next step in creating the identity of our team. We have had a great off season , the kids have worked extremely hard. We were able to get a good look at our schemes and our players in full pads...you can get a good idea of that through the off season but you can't really get the best evaluation until you add the pads and the physicality. We use spring to identify where you are at and where you need to go. We are super excited about this group, we are ready to start our summer work!"

479.394.4248

104 Port Arthur Ave. Mena, AR 71953-3344

THE POLK COUNTY

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June 2, 2021

OLT NEWS: Lamar Austin, Chairman of the OLT Play Selection Committee has announced an open meeting for any one interested in becoming a member or submitting plays for consideration for the 2022 Season.

The meeting will be held June 12 at 6:00pm at LaVilla’s. Please respond to let us know if you’re attending for seating requirements.

The Theatre is also in need of additional Volunteers to help with various areas. Director’s, Assistant Directors, Set construction, set painting, back stage crews, lighting and sound techs, concession staff, ticket, Fund Raising, Membership to name a few.

If you have interest in volunteering Contact Scotty Jenkins @ 479-216-5536 or email at lonestarjack2001@yahoo.com

Around Town

with some fun and games, then choose the business to be Mobbed. If you have not yet attended a Cash Mob, now is a good time to start!

Eat breakfast with the Masons! Saturday June 5th, from 7-10 am, you can eat all the country breakfast fixings with your local lodge! Donations are appreciated and all proceeds benefit the Rex Burns Masonic Scholarship. The public is welcome and invited!

Ross Tunnel American Legion Post 249 meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is June 8th at 6pm at 177 Highway 278 East in Wickes. Meetings our open to all veterans and their families For questions call 1-479-216-5664.

The Polk County Farmer’s Market will be opening Saturday, May 29, at the Historic Depot from 7:00 am-sold out St. Agnes Church will host a (usually 10:30/11:00). The Market will be food distribution on Thursday, June open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 3rd from 10:00-Noon at 203 8th St. in Mena. at the same times for the rest of the season. Distribution will be at the church office.

The Cash MOB meets at the Art GalPolk County Republican Comlery on June 12th at 10 am They start off mittee meets on the 3rd Monday of every

Around Town 17

month at 5:30pm in the Polk County Library.

The next meeting will be on June 21st.

Country-Western Dance 7-10 p.m. on Fridays at the Hatfield Auditorium. AdmisThe Food Pantry at the Mena Sev- sion is $7.00. Included is a 50/50 drawing enth Day Adventist Church is open every first and a snack break based on whatever food and third Monday of each month, 4 p.m.- 6 people bring. p.m., located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call 479-437-4018.

Polk County Republican Committee Meeting. We meet on the 3rd Alcoholics Anonymous meet at Monday of every month at 5:30pm in the 8 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Polk County Library.

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 Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Monday, at 7 p.m. Thursday, at 7 p.m. be read on radio stations KENA Friday, and at 6 p.m. Saturday at the old bus and KQOR daily. Simply send barn at the Crossing Church. For information your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews. call Erica at 479-216-7249. com or call 479-243-9600 and Grief Share is starting a new 13 week let us know about your event! series at First Presbyterian Church in Mena. To have it in the Polk County Meetings are each Thursday from 10 am until Pulse newspaper, we need to noon and are open to anyone in the commu- know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We nity grieving the loss of a loved one. For more look forward to continuing to serve the community! information call 479-234-3419.

True Tales of Law Enforcement

U.S. MARSHALS FILES

By Ray Shelley

Recently, my wife and I were on a road trip. As with most road trips, we like to pass the time talking. Today we were reminiscing about our youth.

When I was a young boy, I mentioned some Saturday afternoons at the movie house with my popcorn and coke watching a group of men with white hats, and shiny badges on their shirts, chasing black hats for some illegal act had committed. The white hats being U.S. Deputy Marshals.

My wife asked, "What is the difference in the rank structure among the old west lawmen"? Oh, what an opportunity she gave me to do what I love to do best, TALK. I said; you have the Sheriff, who was

the Chief Law Enforcement Officers of the county, voted into office by the county's people. The Mayor appointed the Town Marshal, or sometimes elected by the voters. Then you have the United States Marshal, who the United States President appoints.

The Marshal Service is the first federal Law Enforcement agency in the United States. In 1789, the first order of business for the new Continental Congress was to create the Judiciary Act, which established the Federal Judicial System that includes federal judges, clerks, and marshals.

On September 24, 1789, President George Washington signed the act into law. On September 26, President Washington started appointing Marshals to the thirteen colonies. The President knew a new law enforcement agency introduced to the colonies might meet

with resentment, so he selected men who were American Revolutionary war veterans and liked by the community.

Duties of the Marshal include paying fees to the clerks, jurors, U.S. Attorneys, and witnesses, renting the courtroom and jail space, hiring bailiffs and janitors. Plus, making sure the prisoners, witnesses, and jurors are present in court on time.

Marshals were allowed to hire as many Deputies as necessary to complete their tasks. The deputies would serve warrants, subpoenas, and summons and gather evidence of a crime for prosecution. The Marshal's service took the National Census until 1870.

A dark side of the Marshal's service was with the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850.

The act enforced the law of recovery, and arrest of any runaway slaves failing to comply meant being penalized

financially.

The first marshal killed in the line of duty was Robert Forsyth in January of 1794. Forsyth was President Washing-

TRUE TALES continued on page 18

MENA REAL ESTATE

www.MenaRealEstate.com

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State Reports

POLK COUNTY STATE POLICE CID PROBING SUSPECTED SHERIFF’S LOG

WASHINGTON COUNTY HOMICIDE

The Arkansas State Police is investigating a suspected homicide that has claimed the life of Washington County woman. The body of Amber Dunigan, 36, was discovered last night (Friday, May 28th) inside a parked vehicle alongside Arkansas Highway 16, not far from her home in the Wedington Woods community, west of Fayetteville.

Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division were called to the crime scene shortly before 10 PM. Dunigan’s body has been transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory where a manner and cause of death, as well as an approximate time of death will be determined.

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS TO EXPAND PAWS IN PRISON PROGRAM

The Department of Corrections announced today that the McPherson Unit in Newport will be its seventh facility to host a Paws in Prison (PIP) program.

Eight dogs from the Humane Society of Independence County will arrive at the McPherson Unit on Tuesday, June 1. Inmates will meet their PIP dogs at a “Paw-ty” media event scheduled for 1 p.m.

Since PIP began in December 2011, the program has trained and adopted more than 1,700 dogs into permanent homes.

Each dog will be assigned two inmate trainers who receive weekly instruction from professional dog trainers. The animals live with their inmate trainers 24 hours a day, seven days a week in their cells or barracks. The dogs must pass the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen exam to graduate from the program.

Inmate trainers are carefully screened before being accepted as a trainer in the program. Their records must be clear of any behavioral infractions for a year prior to applying for the program, and they must maintain a good behavioral record to remain in the program.

The PIP program, with 43 dogs enrolled, is currently active in six units: J. Aaron Hawkins Sr. Center in Wrightsville, Maximum Security Unit in Tucker, North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Ouachita River Correctional Unit in Malvern, Randall L. Williams Unit in Pine Bluff, Tucker Unit in Tucker.

PIP is funded by the sale of recyclables through the Division of Correction and by donations administered by the Arkansas Paws in Prison Foundation non-profit organization, from other foundations, businesses and private individuals.

PIP reduces the number of dogs euthanized each year in Arkansas due to overpopulation by preparing them to be loving, obedient and adoptable pets. Inmate trainers are able to contribute to society and acquire skills that support successful rehabilitation and re-entry into society, which ultimately improves public safety.

MENA POLICE REPORTS

In observance of Memorial Day, the administrative offices of the Mena Police Department and Polk County Sheriff ’s Office were closed. Reports and Logs were not available at press time, but will be printed in next week’s issue.

TRUE TALES continued from page 17

ton's, appointed Marshal of Georgia. Forsyth and two deputies went to the home of a Mrs. Dixon, where Beverly Allen and his brother William were visiting, to serve an arrest warrant on a civil case filed in the federal court. Mrs. Dixon allowed the three lawmen into her home; as soon as Forsyth identified himself, the Allen brothers ran upstairs, with Forsyth right behind them. The brothers made it to their room and closed the door. When Forsyth started to enter the room, Beverly Allen shot through the door, hitting Forsyth, killing him instantly.

Since the killing of Robert Forsyth, at least 287 officers were killed in the line of duty.

Fast forward to the last half of the 19th century and the territories served by the Marshal Service.

I am most interested in the Indian Territory (current-day Oklahoma); it was considered the most violent and dangerous Territory of all the American Territories.

At any given time, there were 200 deputies seeking lawbreakers in an area that encompassed approximately 74,000 miles of Western Arkansas and Indian Territory, presided over by Judge Isaac C. Parker, the Federal Judge for the Western District. In Glenn Shirley's book, Law West of Fort Smith, he quoted Judge Parker as saying, "Without these men, I could not hold court a single day."

Pay for the Deputy Marshal's was a fee system. They were paid six cents a mile going, two dollars to serve a warrant, and ten cents a mile on their return trip for each prisoner. So, to make it worth their while, the deputies would spend weeks in Indian Territory gathering as many criminals as they could. With all the hardships their job incurred, an average yearly salary was around 500 dollars.

My wife asked, "With the rate of inflation, what would the yearly salary be today". According to the inflation calculator, 500.00 dollars in 1880 would be around 12,600 a year in 2016.

I continued, Deputies like Bass Reeves, Heck Thomas, and James Mershon were very prolific in their pursuit of the bad guys and would make around750.00 dollars a year.

One of the other areas of making money was arresting criminals with a bounty on their heads. The deputies could not collect on a federal bounty, because of being federal employees, but anything else was fair game.

Bring um Back Dead or Alive was only a Hollywood movie catchphrase. In reality, if the deputy killed a prisoner, not only would he lose his pay for mileage and warrant fee, he would have to foot the bill for the prisoner's burial if a relative could not be located to pay the 60 dollar funeral expense. At six cents a mile, they would have to do a lot of riding to pay that expense.

This is just a glimpse into the United States Marshal Service. I hope to expound on the exploits of the Marshals in future articles, mainly as they help bring law and order to Western Arkansas and Indian Territory in the second half of the 19th century.

THE POLK COUNTY

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06.02.21

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 05.26.21

Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Hello! My name is Ginger. I am a super gorgeous orange tabby. I am about 3 years old and weigh in at about 4 pounds. I am one of the sweetest cats to come to HSO. I absolutely love people! I am really affectionate. When someone comes to see me, I rarely stop purring. I want to be close and petted. I am an extrovert and enjoy engaging with everyone, even with new people. When I came to the I was not in the best of health but with proper care I have made an amazing turnaround. Please come to HSO and see my bubbly personality today!

All selected Pet of the Week animals come with a gift package. This special starter pack for cats includes a collar, bed, toys, shampoo, and litter box liners. 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

20 Classifieds

June 2, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES Mowing, weedeating, and hedge trimming- When you need an extra hand in Mena/Polk County call 479-234-0509. Please leave a message 070721 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries. `(870) 490-1191 T0616

Comprehensive Juvenile Services now hiring for Mentoring Coordinator/Case Manager. Seeking qualified person to recruit adult mentors for youth in Polk, Montgomery & Scott county area for youth. Arkansas Bachelors Degree in Human Services field. Strong oral presentation & communication skills required with updated resume with at least three reference letters by June 4, 2021 - Personnel Manager, 1606 South J. Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901 (479) 785-4031 T0602

- FOR SALE Ducks, Chicks, silver pheasant chicks, adult silver pheasants, red and gold and gold silver pheasants & goslings & adult peacocks India blue and rabbits, Call Jimorerdy Martin (479)394-0134 T0602 For Sale - 2019 Toyota Highlander LE, burgundy, one-owner, 46,875 Hwy. miles, 4-cylinder, auto, gray cloth, Toyota’s best engine. $27,900 Call Tim (870) 582-5830

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- YARD SALES -

Moving Sale at 647 Polk 34 in Hatfield, Friday, June 4 and Saturday, June 5 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Follow signs from the highway. Furniture, books, tons of kitchen items, including Pampered Chef and Tupperware products, home decor, linens, kids items, etc.

- EMPLOYMENT Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for a full-time office position. 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. Competitive starting wages; benefits available for full-time positions. Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

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IMMEDIATE JOB OPPORTUNITIES Chief Information Officer/ Information Systems Manager Controller For qualifications, job description, list of benefits, and application process, visit: www.uarichmountain.edu and select EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES at the bottom of the home page.

EEO/AA/ADA EMPLOYER Qualified women, minorities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

- INSERTER -

THE POLK COUNTY

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Hogspore News

Doughnut Week Starts Friday

By Clet Litter from the Ozarks A newsreader, Alan, asked me about Jill and Randy Backwater’s child’s name, Custody. Alan wanted to know if the name was for a boy or a girl. He had his own guess. It was right funny but I’m not telling you what his answer was cause nobody’s funny cept Hogspore citizens. I asked the Backwaters. Their answer was, “We’re gonna let Custody decide what the sex will be, once it learns where all its parts are and what they do.”

Born at Magnolia Regional Medical Center in Magnolia, Arkansas

Erica Phillips and Justun Marks of Magnolia, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl

RayLnn Nicole Marks was born on May 21, 2021

She was 6 pounds 9.5 ounces and 19.5 inches The joy of her birth is shared with her grandparents: Nicole Phillips – Mena, Arkansas; Charles Phillips – Mena, Arkansas; and her siblings: Joseph Rogers; Rhiley Rogers; Grace Lynn Phillips; Emma Phillips

Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System MAY 21, 2021 TO MAY 28, 2021 Sara & Bryan Lyons of Amith, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May 22nd Crystal & Justin Lee of Hatfield, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born May 25th

Doughnut Week starts this Friday and runs, you guessed it, for a week.

Last year’s celerbration seems like only a few months ago, but nobody in Muleberry County is complaining.

Course, we get our share of doughnuts throughout the year, but the parades, parties, and pageantry make this a special event. I got help with the word pageantry. I thought it was a kitchen larder filled with pomp and circumstance, which I figure are two kinds of spices.

Mumford Pickens, local provider of untaxed adult beverages, will be offering his idea for a jelly doughnut with raspberry filling and a shot of solar-powered still syrup at his booth those 7 days. He says, “When folks try my jelly doughnuts, they’ll take a shine to them.”

Smartins Grocery has opened a deli counter inside the store that includes fried chicken to go in Family Packs.

The aroma of those frying birds hits you as soon as you get in the door. The tasty boxes of birds to go are set out on a display like I once seen in a National Geographic magazine article on the shopping districts of Amsterdam.

The Family Packs have assorted 10 pieces from one chicken family: 2 wings from little brother, 2 drum sticks from older sister, 2 breasts from guess who, a couple of thighs from Papa Rooster, and a back from Uncle Egger and one from Auntie Poultryna. The deal comes with a side order of orphaned baked beans and a clan of mashed taters from a prison farm in Idaho.

I hope you had a great Memorial Day holiday and gave thanks to the folks who gave their all for us. Frank Mazariegos, 29 December 1947 - 27 June 1967. RIP Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

June 2, 2021

Congratulations Graduates

of kids first.

The development and distriWe have been blessed by the bution of COVID-19 vaccines example of Arkansas’s teachhas guided the nation back to ers and their extraordinary normalcy. I have enjoyed rework. They learned new skills suming in-person meetings overnight, overhauled curricwith Arkansans instead of conulum and reimagined every ducting business over the phone aspect of their classroom to or online platforms, and I have comply with COVID-19 seen the hope and optimism John Boozman guidelines. Somehow, they that exists for so many peoalso made kids feel safe ple who have endured a chalenough to learn, set an exlenging year. There is a lot of promise for the future, particularly as ample with their positive attitudes and we recognize the accomplishments of let students know how important they students who adapted to the unique were, whether in a classroom or on a computer screen. circumstances to earn their diplomas.

As they worked to maintain the acaThe Class of 2021 showed unyielding character, resilience and commitment demic progress of each child, they also to education which culminated in ac- provided a lifeline in an otherwise chaademic success. It certainly wasn’t easy. otic time. It is amazing to see the smiles We can be proud of the collaboration on the faces of children when they see between parents, students, administra- their teachers. Even though nothing tors and teachers that made this memo- was normal, they gave students an esrable school year one that put the needs cape back to normalcy by being there

and continuing to do what they do best – teach.

When we look back at the heroes of this tumultuous time, it is clear that teachers will be among those we honor as our society’s most valuable players.

Throughout history, teachers and coaches have been, and will continue to be, role models. That’s true in my own life. At the University of Arkansas, my football coach Frank Broyles told my teammates and me that “There are two kinds of people in this world – givers and takers. Live your life as a giver.” I’ve carried Coach Broyles’ words with me ever since. They help guide the way I live and serve because I’ve seen what happens when they get put into action and experienced the reward in helping others.

It’s a message I often share with graduates. Subiaco Academy’s Class of 2021 invited me to its commencement exercises in mid-May. For the final as-

State 21 signment of high school, I encouraged them to use what they learned to make a difference. My advice to these students was simple: choose wisely what you point your life at — work, stability, obedience, community, justice and peace — and you can change the world.

My hope for the Class of 2021, and all Arkansans, is to experience the happiness and fulfillment that comes from lending a hand to someone else.

It’s a welcome sign that we can resume celebrating this milestone together with the pomp and circumstance it deserves. I’m proud to recognize the accomplishments of graduates, all students who have demonstrated their ability to adapt how they learn, the teachers who rose to the challenge and the parents who rearranged their schedules to accommodate learning changes. As we close another school year, I wish them all a great summer and much success in the years ahead.

Governor Hutchinson's Weekly Address Getting Across the COVID Finish Line The state’s emergency health declaration ends this Sunday, and today I’d like to encourage Arkansans to remember that although the emergency has passed, we are still in a pandemic.

We have plenty of reasons to be optimistic, though. Our hospitalizations are down. The General Assembly enacted into law my emergency orders that allowed telemedicine and liability protection. Now every Arkansan 12 and older has access to vaccines, and the vaccine is the best way to manage COVID. But these encouraging signs and the end of the emergency declaration do not change the fact that COVID-19 is still in our community. The public health concerns remain, and we must continue to take it seriously.

Throughout the pandemic, I have worked closely with my team at the Arkansas Department of Health as we decided the best course of action. After consulting Health Secretary Dr. José Romero and his experts, I am confident that end-

ing the declaration is the correct action.

Arkansans have demonstrated they will do the right thing, so we can safely move from an emergency response to the dayby-day management of the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that 50 percent of adult Arkansans have at least one shot. That is good, but we must do better. And we hope to have seventy-percent of all Arkansans to be vaccinated.

We all know that vaccinations are our way out of the pandemic, and that is why I am supporting a program of incentives to help move Arkansas across the finish line.

On Tuesday, I announced the state will purchase fifty-thousand Arkansas Scholarship Lottery scratch-off tickets and fifty-thousand gift certificates for hunting and fishing licenses from Arkansas Game and Fish. Starting this week, everyone who receives a vaccination will get the choice of a lottery ticket or the Game and Fish certificate. If we hand out all of those, we’ll purchase more if this proves successful to motivate more people to get a shot.

In addition for Memorial Day week-

end, the Department of Health is partnering with Arkansas State Parks to stage vaccination clinics at three of our state parks – DeGray Lake, Mississippi River, and Petit Jean. The name of everyone who receives a shot at one of these clinics will be entered into a drawing for two nights of free lodging at any of our state parks.

Last week, I announced that employees of the state’s executive branch agencies who receive the vaccination will receive a one-hundred-dollar bonus. We want employees to be immunized so they can be safe. But we also want to create a safe en-

vironment for those who must come into a state office, whether it’s to get a driver’s license or register a business.

Memorial Day is the time we officially set aside to honor the memory of those who have given their life in service to the United States. Memorial Day also is the unofficial start of summer. This year, Memorial Day also marks the end of the COVID-19 emergency for Arkansans.

We are making progress against the pandemic. Normal life is in sight, and that’s something to be thankful for this Memorial Day.

22 Memorial Day

THE POLK COUNTY

June 2, 2021

Heroes remembered Photos by Jeri Pearson The Elks honored servicemen and women who gave all in the name of freedom on Memorial Day at the Polk County Courthouse. The club fed veterans and loved ones and honored those who have served during a ceremony that recognized lives sacrificed by laying wreaths at the Polk County War Memorial.

Holly Springs Real Estate, LLC

1114 A Highway 71 S, Mena, AR 71953

479-394-4200 hollyspringsrealestate.com

Keith Aleshire Principal Broker

479-243-5341 kaleshire@aol.com

3876 - Office Building and Land on Highway 71 south in Mena. Front reception area and an office with space for file cabinets. Side hall connects exam rooms with a restroom at the end. An extended lab area, plus office and storage/ work area is located on the other side of the exam rooms creating a convenient work environment. At the back of the building there's a restroom and storage with a washer-dryer hookup.

MLS18032226 $125,000

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THE POLK COUNTY

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Memorial Day 23

June 2, 2021

DAVA holds Forget-MeNot fundraiser Photo by Cindi Hernandez On May 28th and 29th, members of the Mena Disabled American Vets Auxiliary Chapter #46 gave out Forget-Me-Nots for donations in honor of our vets on Memorial Photo by Dolores Sanders Day. Pictured here are A friend of VFW.Veterans of Foreign War members Tom, Eddie and Richard would Commander Carol Burns like to acknowledge all the public who donated to a very worthy cause. Their and Robin Lang, Adjuvalued donation goes to veterans in need. Veterans volunteer tirelessly year after tant for Chapter 46. year collecting out in the weather at Walmart and James.

Vets thank community for support

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24

June 2, 2021

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THE POLK COUNTY

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