Polk County Pulse May 26, 2021

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

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

Memorial Day

INSIDE:

Special Olympics

Page 13-15

Photo by Trey Youngdahl

Empty Chair

Page 4

The wheel is man’s greatest invention.

Gunpowder- the worst.

Memorial Day reminds us “Mankind” is an oxymoron.

Page 28

PSCO finds drugs during traffic stops On Wednesday, May 20, 2021, Deputies with the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office conducted a traffic stop on Highway 71 between Cove and Hatfield on a white Ford F350. During the stop, it was discovered that the driver of the vehicle, Dante St.Michael age 56 of Waldron, Arkansas, had a suspended driver’s license. Further investigation uncovered methamphetamines, drug paraphernalia, and cash in excess of $25,000.00.

St.Michael was arrested and transported to the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office. He is charged with Possession of a Sch.2 C/S Methamphetamines, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving on a Suspended DL. No bond has been set at this time.

Holiday, Hallowed Day, Hollow Day Meth, Morphine,

By Frank Fisch

Mrs. Mena

May 26, 2021

There is no “Happy” or “Merry” Memorial Day. For some- just an empty lawn chair at a family picnic.

Have a burger, Grab a cold one, Enjoy the camaraderie, And the day off.

It’s what they would have wanted us to do.

But while you are at your party, If you happen to walk by an empty chair, Pause for a moment and raise your glass, To the soldier who may be sitting there.

gun found by PCSO On Saturday, May 15, 2021, a Deputy with the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office stopped a white Jeep driven by Samuel Leon Bissell, age 40, of Mena. During the stop and a subsequent search of the vehicle, Deputies found approx. 113 grams of Methamphetamines, loaded syringes, scales, pills, approx.. $912.00 cash, and a loaded handgun.

Samuel Bissell was arrested and transported to the Polk County Deten-

See CRIME continued on page 2

2 News

CRIME continued from page 1 tion Center. Bissell is currently charged with Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, Possession of Methamphetamines with Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Sch 2 C/S (Morphine), and Possession of a Firearm by Certain Person. His bond was set at $150,000.00.

Stolen Truck, Drugs found

by PCSO On Monday, May 17, 2021, a deputy with the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a white Chevrolet truck in Hatfield. During the initial contact, it was discovered that

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

the driver, Clinton Wayne Mahaffey, age 36, of Smithville, Ok, had an outstanding warrant in Polk County and a suspended driver’s license.

During a pat down of Mahaffey, Deputies found approx. 2 grams of methamphetamines. When deputies ran the VIN on the truck, it was discovered that the truck had been stolen out of Choctaw County, Oklahoma. During a search of the truck, several items of drug paraphernalia, approx.. 1 ounce of marijuana, and two loaded firearms were located. Clinton Mahaffey was arrested and transported to the Polk County Detention Center.

Mahaffey’s charges include, Simultaneous Possession of Drugs and Firearms, Possession of Methamphetamines with Purpose to Deliver, Possession of Drug paraphernalia, and Theft by Receiving. No bond has been set at this time.

Your Pulse!

Between 11 pm on 05/21/2021 and 6:45 am on 05/22/2021 someone felt the need to destroy my mailbox in an unprovoked and vicious attack with a club or bat, knocking it to the ground and breaking it free from it's supports, rendering it a useless heap of metal and wood. I had previously talked to my mailbox and asked it to keep it's flap shut and not enrage passersby.

I do not know what my mailbox did to draw your ire but feel your actions were beyond the pale. I called the Polk County Sheriff and filed a report with Deputy Fortner, who was professional in all respects. To the person or persons who committed this vandalism, know that I will prosecute you if at all possible. To aid in that I offer $ 100.00 in reward for information that leads to your arrest and conviction in our courts.

Please contact Deputy Fortner with your information (394-2511).

Your childish act is not funny. My wife and I receive some of our medications by mail and your actions are disruptive and possibly life threatening. I genuinely hope you never fall victim to the juvenile actions that I am dealing with as a result of your actions. But then, there is Karma....Ronald Goss....Retired

The

POLK COUNTY PULSE

will be CLOSED Monday, May 31st in observance of Memorial Day! NO Swap Shop on KENA on Memorial Day!

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MyPulseNews.com

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THE POLK COUNTY

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May 26, 2021

Radio - Print - Web 1168 Hwy 71S Mena, AR 71953 Phone: 479-243-9600 Fax: 479-243-9603 Email: news@mypulsenews.com

KENA 104.1 - KQOR 105.3 MyPulseNews.com

Our Team: Ashley Smith- General Manager Jeri Pearson - Editor Ethan Nahté - Production Manager John Russell - Graphic Design Trey Youngdahl- Digital Producer Curt Teasdale - Programmer/ On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Melissa Fetters - Account Executive Emily Liles - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Thaddaeus Nance The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Polk County Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays, with a distribution of 8,000 and an estimated readership of 10,000.

MyPulseNews.com has hundreds of visitors daily and KENA and KQOR have thousands of listeners hourly.

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ATTORNEY GENERAL ALERT: SCAMMERS ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS ONLINE LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is cautioning Arkansans when shopping online and on social media. Whether shopping through an adorable online boutique or Facebook Marketplace, con artists will use every trick in the book to steal your money without delivering what you paid for or their merchandise may not look as promised.

“Criminals see online shopping as an easy way to steal from you using deceitful posts,” said Attorney General Rutledge. “Whether they are in person or online thieves, we will find them and hold them accountable.”

Attorney General Rutledge provides the following tips to help keep consumers safe while shopping online: Look for the “lock” icon on the browser’s status bar, and the abbreviation “https” in the web address to be sure information is secure and to help guard the security of your information as it is transmitted to a website. Be sure your browser has the most up-to-date encryption capabilities by using the latest version available.

Check the online merchant’s privacy policy before providing any personal financial information and determine how the information will be used or shared with others. Some websites’ disclosures are easier to find than others — look at the bottom of the home page, on order forms or in the “About” or “FAQs” sections of a site.

Read and understand return, refund and shipping policies before you make your purchase.

Pay by credit card, which is the most secure payment method. Under federal law, charges can be disputed and consumer liability for theft is limited so long as consumers promptly notify the bank or credit card issuer. Additionally, many credit card issuers have “zero liability” policies under which the purchaser pays nothing if his or her credit card is stolen and used to make unauthorized purchases.

Keep personal information private. Do not disclose personal information – address, telephone number, Social Security number, bank account number or email address – unless you know who is collecting the information, why they are collecting it and how they will use it.

Be cautious when buying gifts from an online auction. Understand how the auction works and check the seller’s reputation before bidding. Always ask about terms of delivery and return options. Never wire money for the purchase; use some other form of payment.

Keep records of online transactions and check for emails from merchants. Merchants may email important information about purchases.

Promptly and thoroughly review monthly credit card and bank statements for any errors or unauthorized purchases. Notify the credit or debit card issuer immediately if a card or checkbook is lost or stolen or if you suspect someone is using your accounts without your permission.

For more information about consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982 or consumer@ArkansasAG.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov.

Memorial Day 3

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The Polk County Pulse welcomes letters to the Editor addressing any topic of interest to our readers. To be published, letters must not contain obscene or libelous language.

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The following contact information is required when the letter is submitted: NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER. Letters are published at the discretion of the Editor and Publisher.

Letters may be submitted by e-mail to news@mypulsenews.com; mailed to P.O. Box 1450, Mena, AR 71953 or dropped off at 1168 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR. A drop-box is provided by the front door for after hour convenience.

TO SUBMIT: NEWS ITEMS / ANNOUNCEMENTS / LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / SPORTS UPDATES / CALENDAR ITEMS / CLASSIFIED ADS Email NEWS@MYPULSENEWS.COM

4 Community

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

Memorial Day: Missing Man Table

Contributed by: Brenda Cunningham and Kathy Hagler Photos by: Kay Dye and Skip Copher A "Missing Man" table, also known as "Fallen Comrade" table is a memorial usually set up in dining areas for Memorial Day weekend. The purpose of these tables is to not only honor the thousands of American servicemen and women who have fallen in the line of duty, became Prisoners of War, or who are Missing in Action, but they also educate children and the public in general about the sacrifices made by our military. The Missing Man table is a reminder that they have not been forgotten.

Missing Man tables are traditionally adorned with the following items. The white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their motives when answering the call to duty. The single red rose reminds us of the life of each of the missing and their loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith awaiting answers. The vase is tied with a yellow ribbon to symbolize our continued determination to account for our missing. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of those who seek answers. The

Bible represents the strengths gained through faith to sustain those lost from our county, founded as one nation under God. The inverted glass symbolizes their inability to share in a toast. The chair is empty, they are missing.

The James K. Polk Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution have been given permission by the following restaurants to set up a "Missing Man table: Branding Iron, Chicollos’, Chopping Block, La Villa, Little Italy, New China, and Papa’s. We most graciously thank these restaurants for allowing us this honor. Each one of these restaurants are losing potential revenue by giving up one of their tables for this memorial. We would also like to thank Polk County Developmental Center Resale Store for their generous support in this project. The Missing Man tables will be set up through the Memorial Day weekend. When eating at one of the supporting restaurants and visiting PCDC be sure to thank them for supporting the Daughters of the American Revolution Missing Man/ Fallen Comrade project. Let us remember and never forget the sacrifices of our military. May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families.

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THE POLK COUNTY

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State News 5

May 26, 2021

From the

State House of Representatives rent and utilities if: This week, we want to direct • Someone in your home your attention to a program qualifies for unemployment that could help Arkansans benefits OR struggling to pay rent and util• Your household income ities due to the pandemic. decreased during the pandemThe Arkansas Rent Relief ic OR Program offers financial help • Someone in your home to pay overdue and upcoming John Maddox suffered significant financial rent and utilities for eligible Arkansas renters. Landlords who have hardship due to the pandemic (i.e. lost tenants unable to pay their rent be- a job, has extensive medical bills) AND • You meet income eligibility based cause of lost income or the COVID-10 pandemic also may apply. The state of on the residing county (Area Median Arkansas has $173 million of federal Income) and the number of people in funding for the Arkansas Rent Relief your home. A chart of Area Median InProgram. Once an application is ap- come by county is below.

Arkansans renting in Benton, Pulasproved, money would go directly to ki and Washington counties are asked landlords and utility companies.

The program covers overdue rent to apply directly through their county plus up to 5 percent of late fees dating programs. Those links and a complete back to April 1, 2020. It also covers list of required documents to apply can overdue utility bills for gas, water, and be found on the DHS website www. electricity. This program does not cover ar.gov/rentrelief.

Call 855.RENTARK (855.736.8275) overdue phone or internet bills.

Future rent owed through December if you need help submitting your ap31, 2021, is also covered. Renters can plication or have questions. Represenapply for up to three months of future tatives are available Monday – Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday – Sunday 9 rent at a time.

You may qualify for help paying your a.m. to 6 p.m.

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, 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

The state is now offering should include the landhelp to low-income families lord’s phone number and who have fallen behind on email address. their rent because of finanIf you have received an cial problems caused by the eviction notice or a past due Covid-19 pandemic. notice, you can qualify beThe Arkansas Rental Relief cause your family is at risk Program is run by the state of being homeless or going Larry Teague Human Services Departthrough “housing instabiliment, which will distribute ty.” about $173 million in federal funds to Also, you will need to show proof renters and landlords. that you went through financial hardThe financial help can be used for ship because of the pandemic. Finally, paying past due rent, or for future you need to show proof of income for rent payments. It can also help pay for everyone in your house who files tax utilities such as water bills, light bills returns. Your landlord must cooperand gas bills, but not for Internet and ate by applying along with you. telephone bills.

People who qualify can use the asVirtual Learning sistance for up to 15 months of rent and utilities incurred between April The Arkansas Charter Authoriz1, 2020 and December 31, 2021. ing Panel has recommended changes Renters can get rental assistance if in charter school language that will someone in the household qualifies guide charter schools next year if they for unemployment benefits, or if the want to enroll more students in virtuhousehold income decreased during al learning. the pandemic or someone in the Charters will have a more definite home went through significant finan- idea of maximum class sizes, how cial hardship due to the pandemic. many students can be assigned to an Also, a family qualifies if its income individual teacher, minimum hours is under a certain threshold, which of instruction that are offered in a day depends on the average income of and lesson planning. the county in which they live and the For the current school year, officials number of people in the household. at the state and local levels improTo learn more and to apply for help, vised in order to implement new rules search on the Internet for ar.gov/rent- governing virtual classrooms. relief. Also, you can call 855-RENTThe changes recommended by the ARK between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Mon- Charter Authorizing Panel will allow day through Friday. On Saturday and officials to better plan for whatever Sunday the phone lines are open from virtual classes that may be in demand 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the 2021-2022 school year.

Not only can you pay past due rent The changes endorsed by the Charthrough the program, you can use ter Panel will be considered by the funding to pay up to 5 percent of late state Board of Education at its June fees incurred after April 1, 2020. meeting. One member of the state You will need to provide an ID, Board, while discussing the plans such as a driver’s license, and proof endorsed by the Charter Panel, comthat you are renting, such as a lease pared last year’s improvisations as or rental contract. That agreement “the wild, wild west.”

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

Barry Cunningham

Barry Cunningham, age 60 of Zafra, Oklahoma passed away on Sunday, May 16th, 2021 at his home.

Barry was born on December 7, 1961, to Marion “Pete” and Lois (Woods) Cunningham.

He is survived by his daughter Jana Carr of Denison, TX; son and daughter-in-law Brett & Susan Cunningham of Tulsa, OK; Three grandchildren Kasen Carr, Korbyn Carr, and Archer Cunningham; Sisters Charlene Morris, Linda Weinheimer, and Jane Owens.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Carol Richmond.

Cremation arrangements entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home of Mena, AR. Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

David Roland Dawson

David Roland Dawson, age 65, of Mena, Arkansas died on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at UAMS in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born on Friday, December 16, 1955 to Eugene Floyd Dawson and Ina Mae Prince Dawson in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

David was a loving man who spent many years serving the Lord as a pastor in several different places including Ardmore, Oklahoma, Texas, and Cove, Arkansas. His family and God brought him the greatest joy in life.

He was especially proud to lead others to the Lord in the sharing of the Gospel of Christ. David was blessed with 45 years of marriage to the love of his life, Darlene. He said her smile was infectious and always brought him great joy. David enjoyed getting to talk on the phone and playing with his grandkids and visit with them while sharing many stories. He loved to see their smiling faces. David was an avid traveler and visited Australia and the Philippines for missionary work and enjoyed camping in New Mexico, Colorado, and many other places with his family. He liked woodworking, fishing, fixing up old cars and playing card games. David took great joy in teaching his grandchildren how to do things and showing them the love of Christ. David 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 father, Eugene Floyd Dawson.

David is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Darlene Dawson of Mena, Arkansas; three sons and daughters in law, David Dwight and Waynette Dawson of Ardmore, Oklahoma; Daniel Eugene and Brandy Dawson of Springer, Oklahoma; Darrell Roland and Nova Dawson of Marlin, Texas; one daughter, Diana Marie Dawson of Mena, Arkansas; his mother, Ina Mae Dawson of Rowlett, Texas; one brother, Doug Dawson of Mesquite, Texas; two sisters and brothers in law, Dawna and Mike Herring of Aledo, Texas and Denise and Greg Davis of Tulsa, Oklahoma; thirteen grandchildren, Deanna Dawson, Dayna Dawson, Demi Dawson, Deven Dawson, Dean Dawson, Dwight Dawson, Daylee Dawson, Hannah Dawson, “Little” Daniel Dawson, Benjamin Dawson, Rebekah Dawson, Elizabeth Dawson, and Matthew Dawson; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 2:00 PM at the Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Mena with Brother Zack Johnson officiating. A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 1:00 PM at the Paradise Valley Cemetery in

Lawton, Oklahoma with Brother David Dawson and Brother Daniel Dawson officiating under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be David Dawson, Daniel Dawson, Darrell Dawson, Deven Dawson, Dwight Gonzales, and Greg Davis.

Honorary pallbearers will be Doug Dawson, Mike Herring, Seth Davis, and Ronnie Kunze.

Helen Maxine Moore

Helen Maxine Moore, age 68, of Zafra, Oklahoma passed away Sunday, May 16, 2021 at home. Helen was born on December 1, 1952 in Mena, Arkansas to Bennett Joseph Anderson and Beryl Foley Anderson.

Maxine was a very headstrong woman; it was going to be her way or the highway. She never gave up that fighting spirit. She was always bragging on her children and her grandchildren.

Maxine was immensely proud of her grandchildren always talking about how smart and talented they are. She was always crocheting blankets for each new baby and was always happy to do it. Maxine loved being a nurse and working with the elderly.

She was loved and will be missed more than words can say.

She is survived by son, Keith Ray and wife Deborah of Donaldson, Arkansas; daughters, Misty Dawn Dearing and husband Matt of Merkel, Texas, and Kristy Dehart and fiancé Chris Winkles of Abilene, Texas; grandchildren, Conner Gorby and wife Madison, Shyann Gorby, Gracie Dearing, Nathaniel Paschall, Zoe Paschall, Kaden Winkles, Jacob Ray, and Jakob Dearing; sister Pamela O’Bar of Norman, Arkansas; and numerous other family and friends.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Bennie Carter, Bessie Chaney, Rozilla Gist, Anna Hughes, Edna Mullins, Louise Cog-

burn; and 2 sets of infant twins.

Graveside service will be Friday, May 21, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Hatfield, Arkansas with Brother Donnie Jewell officiating. Services are under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Online obituary and guestbook beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

James Edward Upton

Mr. James Edward Upton, age 69, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Monday, May 17, 2021 in Mena. He was born on May 18, 1951 in Okmulgee, Oklahoma to the late Luther and Lucille (Craft) Upton.

James was united in marriage to Lorraina (Taylor) Upton for twenty-three years. James enjoyed fishing and driving around. He loved his family and will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Lorraina Upton; son, James RonDale and wife Kelsey of Mena; daughters, April Upton of Okmulgee, Autumn Shepardson of Okmulgee, and Kimberlina Upton of Mena; several grandchildren; brother, Roger Upton of Henryetta, OK, and Joanna Thompson of Beggs, OK; stepson, Nathan Fanning and wife Tina of Mena; and stepdaughter, Charity Stewart and husband Michael of Henryetta, OK. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home. No services are scheduled at this time.

‘The only cure for grief is to grieve.’

-Earl Grollman

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

By Richie Lawry

May 26, 2021

An Arkie’s Faith: Scam Alert

Ring, ring, ring. I crawled out of the vehicle I was working on and headed for the phone. “Richie’s,” I said, answering the phone. The voice on the other end of the line was furious. “I want you to stop calling me,” she shouted. I assured her that I had not called her. “Well, someone there is calling me,” she retorted.

“I work alone, so I can assure you that no one called you from here,” I replied, adding, “my company never makes unsolicited phone calls.” “I know that the calls have been coming from you because your number is on my Caller ID,” she shrieked.

I tried to calm her down by telling her, “I think that I know what is going on.” I explained that I had received telemarketer calls that showed on my caller ID as local phone numbers. A telemarketer knows that you are more likely to answer the phone if you think the call is from a local number. I’m not sure that she believed me, but at least she wasn’t yelling by the time our conversation ended. She and I had both been the victims of spoofing, and you probably have been too.

Spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to your caller ID display to disguise their identity. Scammers often use neighbor spoofing, so it appears that an incoming call is coming from a local number or from a company that you may already know and trust. It seems that almost daily, I get robocalls that seem to come from local numbers.

The most common robocalls that I receive go something like this. “Hi, this is Susie calling with the vehicle service department. I see here that the warranty on your car is about to expire, and I was calling to see if you would like to extend this warranty to keep your car protected.” The Federal Communications Commission says that calls like this are the most common robocalls and were the top unwanted call complaint filed by consumers last year.

Unfortunately, we can’t trust the phone’s caller ID or the email address on the message in our inbox. The Facebook profile we just got a message from may not be our high school classmate. Spoofers and spammers have a lot of nasty tricks up their sleeve, from posing as a member of the IRS to lying about your car’s warranty. No matter who the spammer is, their goal is to separate you from your money. Spoofers

and scammers are shockingly successful. Research from Statista, the number one business data platform, shows that Americans lost over nineteen billion dollars to scam calls in 2020.

Number spoofers are like modern-day pirates, commandeering phone numbers instead of ships. Spoofers’ and pirates’ goal is the same: to make a profit by dishonest means.

According to the Federal Communications Commission and the Truth in Caller ID Act, call spoofing is illegal only when the caller intends to “defraud, harm, or wrongfully obtain anything of value” from the call recipient. In these cases, people found guilty of call spoofing can be fined up to $10,000 per call. Unfortunately, prosecutions are rare.

Maybe, like me, you have received phone calls threatening that the Police, Sheriff, IRS, or DEA will be at your house shortly to arrest you if you don’t make payment arrangements. Or that the Police need donations for death benefits for officers who die in the line of duty, or the firefighters need money. The list goes on and on! We live in a world where we are unsure about who to trust.

On March 17, 2021, The Federal Communications Commission fined Texas-based telemarketers $225 million for transmitting approximately one billion robocalls, many of them illegally spoofed, to sell short-term, limited-duration health insurance plans.

At that time, acting FCC chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel issued a statement saying, “the FCC receives more complaints about robocalls than any other issue. It’s easy to see why! Robocalls are intrusive and annoying, and during the last few years, the number has skyrocketed. Worse, many of these calls involve scams. To protect ourselves, many of us rely on Caller ID and only pick up the phone if we recognize the number.

Faith 7

So one of the most insidious things robocallers do is trick people into taking the call. They disguise who they are by spoofing their number and instead use numbers that we trust—friends, family, and familiar institutions.

This isn’t just frustrating—it’s dangerous. When we can’t trust that the number we see is the number that is truly calling, we’re less likely to pick up the phone and more likely to miss important calls from those we really care about.

So today we do something historic: we impose the largest fine ever for the illegal spoofing of telephone numbers. The individuals involved didn’t just lie about who they were when they made their calls—they said they were calling on behalf of well-known health insurance companies on more than a billion calls. That’s fraud on an enormous scale.

This is a just outcome. But the truth is that given the size and scope of the problem, we have to do much, much more.”

Gentle Reader, all of us are susceptible to being scammed. Whenever I hear of someone caught in a scam, I want to say, “What in the world were you thinking? Couldn’t you see that it was only a scam?” I may have never fallen for a telephone scam, but I have fallen for Satan’s deceptions many times. The Bible informs us, “Most importantly, be disciplined and stay on guard. Your enemy the devil is prowling around outside like a roaring lion, just waiting and hoping for the chance to devour someone. Resist him and be strong in your faith. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (VOICE) Satan is always stalking us, looking for a way to enter into our lives and destroy us. For some, he uses selfishness and greed. And for others, he uses doubt and fear. He suggests that we should hate those who are different from us or disagree with our views. Regardless of what tactic he uses, Satan intends to scam us out of our relationship with God. Please don’t fall for his scam.

“We live in a world where we are unsure about who to trust.”

Joke of the Week: How do you get a country girl’s attention? A tractor.

Replacing windshields in Polk County for forty years.

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

8 History

May 26, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Reflections from History and Faith: Memorial Day

By Jeff Olson

Someone once said, "Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it." In several days we will have an opportunity to pause from our busy lives to honor those Americans who have given their lives in service to their (and our) country. Major General John A. Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, officially proclaimed Decoration Day on May 5, 1868 and it was first widely observed on May 30, 1868. Former Union general and sitting Ohio congressman General James A. Garfield (later the 20th U.S. president) gave a speech in remembrance of fallen Union and Confederate soldiers, saying that “We do not know one promise these men made, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke; but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted death, and thus

resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue." Afterward, about 5,000 participants helped to decorate the graves of the more than 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

This event was inspired by a number of similar observances in local communities across America. Some of these tributes would become official days of remembrance in states, with New York being the first in 1873. In the years since, Decoration Day grew into an institutionalized local and national tradition as Memorial Day to honor all Americans who have died while in military service.

Fifty years ago, through the National Holiday Act of 1971, Memorial Day became an officially recognized national holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May. Some states still have an additional day set aside for honoring the Confederate war dead.

This Memorial Day also commemorates one hundred years when in 1921 Sgt. Edward F. Younger selected one of

four unknown soldiers buried in American military cemeteries in France to become America's Unknown Soldier representing all of those who were lost by the U.S. during World War I. That body now lies in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Tomb sarcophagus is decorated with three wreaths on each side panel (north and south). On the front (east), three figures represent Peace, Victory and Valor. The back (west) features the inscription: Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God. In March 1926, soldiers from nearby Fort Myer were first assigned to guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, but only during daylight hours. In 1937, the guards became a 24/7 presence, standing watch over the Unknown Soldier at all times. There are three other soldiers buried at the tomb.

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill to select and pay tribute to the unknowns of World War II and Korea. The selection ceremonies and the interment of those unknowns took place in 1958. The Unknown of Vietnam was only unknown for a short time. After being placed into the tomb in 1984, the Unknown was exhumed in 1988.

Thanks to mitochondrial DNA testing, Department of Defense scientists were able to identify the remains as Air Force 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie. It was decided that the crypt that contained the remains of the Vietnam Unknown will remain vacant. The crypt cover was replaced with a new inscription that now reads: Honoring and Keeping Faith with America Missing Servicemen, 1958-

1975. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier continues to serve as a focal point of mourning and a site for reflection of the sacrifices made by our armed forces in defense of liberty.

Memorial Day honors the more than 1.3 million American military deaths since 1775. As we approach and observe Memorial Day 2021, we must be careful not to allow the “holiday” to obscure or overshadow the "Memorial" as we partake in our weekend activities. Memorial Day should be a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom and it should renew our understanding of the necessity for our own commitment to preserving it through active and responsible citizenship. And, we should never forget to remember, pray for, and express our gratitude and respect to those men and women currently serving in our military, including their families.

Freedom is truly every citizen's call to duty, and this call has never been more important than in 2021. In the words of General Douglas MacArthur, "No man is entitled to the blessings of freedom unless he be vigilant in its preservation." As President Ronald Reagan expressed it: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free."

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

Education 9

Mena School Board holds May Meeting

The May meeting of the Mena School Board was held on Tuesday, May 18th at the District Administration Building.

The Meeting began with a plaque presentation to Mr. Benny Weston in appreciation for his nine years of service to the Mena School District as Superintendent.

Mr. Weston will be taking a new position at the DeQueen Mena Education Service Cooperative.

In the Superintendent’s Report Mr. Weston recapped recent activities & talked about the completion of a trying year. He expressed his appreciation to the parents, students & staff for rising to the challenge.

Weston reminded school board members that at the June meeting they will need to reorganize the board. The school board elections were held on Tuesday & state law says that the board must reorganize at the next meeting following that election.

Mena High School Principal Mr. David Maxwell then updated the board on the graduation ceremony that will be Saturday, May 22nd at 10:00am in Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium. The event will follow the same format as last year. Gates will open at 8:45am.

Campus principals addressed the board about the summer school schedule. Sixty students are expected at Holly Harshman Elementary & Fifty Six students will attend at Louise Durham Elementary. These will be in July on Tuesday & Thursday from 8:30am-11:30am.

Mena Middle School will not have summer school & will focus on interventionist & other staff training. Mena High School will host two recovery sessions this summer. The first is June 7th-24th & the second is July 12th-29th. An ACT Boot Camp will be held July 12th-16th.

Self contained students at MHS will have sessions from 8:00am-Noon June 14th-17th, June 28th-July 1st, July 12th15th & July 26th-29th. Buses will be running & transportation will be provided.

Mr. Danny Minton presented a maintenance report. It included an update on the completion of the gym floor project at the Union Bank Center & a new finish on the floor at Jim Rackley Gymnasium.

New fencing on a portion of Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium is planned in June. He

updated the plan for new HVAC at HHE & MMS as well as the summer maintenance program.

As announced earlier on social media Louise Durham Elementary has earned accreditation as a highly effective school from Solution Tree. Mr. Weston congratulated Mrs. Holder & the staff on this impressive accomplishment. LDE joins eight other schools in Arkansas to earn this designation.

Christy Harrison then talked to the board about the statement of intent for the special education & related services for the 21-22 school year. The board approved the statement of intent unanimously.

Next on the agenda was the food service renewal. The board voted to extend the 5 year contract with Aramark.

The board also voted to renew the contract with Horizon for software used in the cafeteria as well as rollover & direct certification import..

Mr. Weston then asked the boards permission for the district to acquire new busses when they become available & avoid the need for a future vote. That request was approved.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lee Smith then spoke to the board on the Chromebook lease.

Smith recommended a buyout of current Chromebooks & a new set for 5th grade & 9th grade. That plan was approved.

Dr. Smith then shared information on E-Rate. E-Rate is a government program the district can take advantage of for improvements to the network infrastructure. That would total $250,490.00 with the balance of $67,484 being paid with ESSER funds. The board approved.

Mr. Weston then gave an update on the ESA Percentage for 2021-2022.This is also known as school poverty funding & is a part of the state funding package for schools that is targeted to low income students. The number of students eligible for free & reduced price lunches is used to set the funding level for each district.

The current rate In the Mena district is 69%. That is one percentage point away from doubling the funding for these programs. Weston expressed his disappointment with coming so close to that mark.

The five year plan was next on the agenda. That included a discussion on ESSER II, equalization & educator compensation funds. Recent legislation allows reform of the salary scale including a minimum salary increase. The board approved Weston’s suggestion to accept the educator compensation reform fund dollars from the state & fix the minimum salary scale. Approving this now will allow the district to take advantage of additional funding next year.

The board also approved the submission of a plan to award ESSER II funds for extra effort by school employees for on sight days. The plan will be submitted to the state for approval.

With the reform of the salary scale the district salary schedule for certified employees was reduced to two columns, bachelors & masters.

It includes adding an increase to meet state minimums, add a Dean of Students multiplier & the Assistant Superintendent multiplier will go back to .3317.

This will go into effect on July 1st, 2021.

The board approved that change.

Changes to the classified scale were also approved. That includes a 2.4% increase for job positions not effected by the minimum wage increase over the last two years.

Next the board approved changes to the Visa card accounts to reflect recent changes in personnel & consolidate those into one account.

The board then voted to accept 11 freedom of choice students who applied for the 2021-2022 school year.

The final item on the agenda was personnel.

The retirement of Martha Billingsley & Kellie Sterner were accepted. They accepted the resignation of Julie Woodral, James Waldon, Melissa Lunsford, & Dannalee Griffin.

Resigning from coaching assignments were Ryan Luttmer from Jr. High Basketball & Jr. Boys Track , Heather Goss from Jr. Girls Track, Tia Fryar from Assistant Jr. Boys Basketball, Brad Lyle from Assistant Sr. Boys Basketball & Tommy Johnson from Assistant Baseball.

Those affected by restructuring include: Cindy Brevik to Instructional Technologist, Karen Parnell to MMS Self Contained, Ashley Stipe to MMS Para Pro, Alissa Faught to LDE Para Pro, Missie Reeves to HHE RTI Interventionist Para Pro, & Shanda Craig to HHE 5th Grade Teacher.

New hires included Sheryl Barfield as RTI Interventionist Para Pro @ LDE, Jamie Grogan as Para Pro @ LDE, Audra Cummings as Para Pro @ HHE, Reagan Black @ HHE 3rd Grade teacher, Katharine Smith as Mathematics @ MHS, Lisa Roberts as Para Pro @ MHS, Madison Bircher as Para Pro @ LDE, Gwendolyn Alexander as Para Pro @ LDE, Jackie Baird as Para Pro @ MHS, Denise Jewell as Para Pro @ MMS, Isaac Minton as Jr. Boys Basketball Coach/Assistant Baseball/Health & PE @ MMS, Rachel Dover as Jr. Girls Track Coach.

Changes in athletics will include: Ryan Luttmer to Assistant Sr. High Basketball, Tommy Johnson to Head Jr. Boys Track Coach, Kyle Smithers to Assistant Jr. Boys Basketball,

MENA REAL ESTATE

479-394-7301

1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953

www.MenaRealEstate.com

10 Community

THE POLK COUNTY

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May 26, 2021

Folk and Fiber Arts Show Call for Entry Mena Art Gallery is happy to announce they have lowered the age for participation in this popular yearly show to 14. Artists age 14 and up should start planning now to enter this unique, fun event.

Cash Prizes: First Place $75

Second Place $50

Third Place $25 There will also be a People's Choice Award of $25.00 each for both Folk Art and the Fiber Arts.

This show is open to all members and non-members ages 14 and over. Work includes all handmade art. Entries must be original and the artist’s own work.

No kits or prints will be accepted. All 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional mediums will be accepted.

Work will be accepted for entry on Saturday, June 26, 2020 from 10 AM to 4 PM. Anything received after 4PM on June 26th will not be eligible for judging. Please contact the Gallery if you need to make other arrangements.

Entry Fees: Rather than paying an entry fee for each piece, a One-time Fee allows you to enter as many pieces as we have room for. ONE TIME FEE: Members $10.00 Non-Members $15.00 All entries must be for sale. No NFS work will be accepted. Please contact the Gallery for the official Rules with details on framing, labels, commission fees, etc. The Rules are also available on our website under Folk & Fiber Show.

What is FOLK ART? What is FIBER ART? For the purposes of this show, here are some guidelines.

FOLK Art Is marked by such attributes as highly decorative design, bright bold colors, flattened perspective, and strong forms in simple arrangements. Unlike more sophisticated art, folk art tends to make use of natural substances like wood, straw, clay and so on. It may include basket weaving, doll-making, enameling, furniture-making, wood-turning, pottery, leatherwork, metalwork, knife-making, mosaic art, jewelry-making, toy-making, papier-mache, etc. Painting may also be in the form of decorative embellishment on other objects, such as textiles, glass, or wood. Our definition of folk art for this show is broad and inclusive.

FIBER Art may include crochet, knitting, embroidery, felt-making, lace-making, macrame, carpet-weaving, tapestry and quilts, etc. Free-standing sculptures made of textiles are also acceptable for this show.

My Pulse Hogspore News

In Five Years

By Clet Litter from the Ozarks Mumford Pickens has some advice for you in a job interview. “Some time in the conversation, the interviewer is gonna ask you, ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’

Here’s your answer to lighten the mood, but you'd better have a serious second answer to follow up with. Your reply should be, ‘In 5 years, I see myself in front of a mirror.’

But, if you’re only there to comply with an unemployment requirement to look for a job, then don’t add anything.”

Jill and Randy Backwater, (the wife is named first out of respect for the CEO), were only married nine months and a day, when they had a child. It’s a new Hogspore record. The sad part is that folks reckon the marriage won’t last much longer, cause the youngin’s name is Custody.

Morton Trubletoof was in Tony’s Barbershop complaining, “Me and Portia are running out of room in our house.”

Old man Grimely woke to say, “Why were you running out of a room?” Then he fell asleep again with the Popular Women Mechanics swimsuit issue over his eyes.

Hardy Barkins said, “You have a two-bedroom house for just the two of you. So, what’s wrong?”

“I’ve got my trapping and hunting gear in the spare bedroom and my wife needs that room for a craft space.”

Hardy said, “Put that stuff in the garage.”

“That’s what Portia says, but I keep my bass boat and trailer in there. So, I think we outta get a bigger home.”

Tony stops cutting hair, so now he wants to get involved, “You can build a second story for more square footage, maybe even install a set of them winding stairs that Portia might like.”

Morton said, “Yeah, but I hear there's a lot of work goes to living with them. Nobody ever talks about who has to wind them stairs back up every night.”

There’s a few lawsuit settlements out there for health damages from using Drowned Up to kill weeds. I don’t use weed killers, but I sure hope it ain’t bad to give a little zing to a can of soda with it.

Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Outdoors 11

May 26, 2021

OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL

KAYAK FISHING

By Steven E Stillwell

Several years ago, I decided to take up kayaking for the sole purpose of fishing, and I’ve never regretted this decision.

Hopefully, after reading my article, you’ll recognize some of the advantages that I’m going to share. I have a twoman, fiberglass boat that’s commercially designated as the BASS-HUNTER, but now that I’m getting older, it’s a lot harder to lift, and load this bulky vessel into my truck-bed by myself. Some of my fishing trips are solo adventures, so size, weight and maneuverability are certainly factors. The only way I could overcome this obstacle was to downsize and purchase a Kayak.

If you’ve ever shopped at the Bass Pro Shop, Cabela’s, Wal-Mart, or Atwood’s, there are several makes and models to choose from, and the prices range from a couple of hundred dollars, to approximately $1,500 for deluxe models with special features. I decided to purchase an entry level craft, because I’d never used one before, and didn’t really know what to expect.

My maiden voyage was on the Ouachita River, and needless to say, I caught a whole stringer of fish my first time out. I was genuinely impressed; not with myself, but with this sleek vessel’s ability to be stealthy, and to get me in the middle of some angling ac-

tion. I fished with lures, spinners, and various crank-baits that morning, and even hooked a stout gar that pulled my Kayak around until turning loose.

Trust me; it was a fun and exciting ride that I’ll never forget.

I learned quickly that negotiating swift currents and rapids is a one way trip in the direction that the water is flowing, so you’ll need to be careful if you plan on returning to your launching point. Fortunately, the place where I started was pretty calm, so I made it back with no trouble. If you go beyond the point of no return, I’d advise planning a float-trip, because you certain don’t want to drag your boat up the river bank, or through the woods to get back.

To date, I’ve fished several lakes including Hinkle, Iron Fork, Greeson, and North Fork with my Kayak, and I’ve always managed to catch some decent fish. If you’re going to spend time on the water, have some respect for your environment, and exercise all of the safety precautions. You can

purchase a quality floatation device or a life vest for a nominal fee, and I recommend doing this. The one I bought has several little pockets in the front for extra fishing gear, and it’s not cumbersome to wear. Swimming skills are important, so I’d advise brushing up on them before embarking on a river, or Lake Journey. A Kayak is a small vessel, so visibility is an important factor, especially when larger boats are trolling, or speeding around on the waterways.

Keep in mind, if they don’t see you, a collision could be fatal. The best advice I can offer is this; don’t get caught after dark in the middle of a big lake, because this is dangerous. It’s wise to keep a flashlight on-board in a sealed, watertight container, commonly referred to as a dry-box, just in case! In an emergency, or if someone’s approaching too fast, you can signal them.

Are you interested in survival, and other outdoor topics? I invite you to join our Facebook page, Ouachita Bushcraft and Survival. We also have a podcast program titled, The Ouachita

Bushcraft and Survival Show, so please listen. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

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Winter Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm

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Memorial Day 2021 Thank you

To All Vets for your service!

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711 Petros, Mena, AR Across from Mena Middle School Owners: Stacy & Julie Nash

12 Community

Courtesy Photo

Back row: Ed Anderson, Mike Clark, Front

row: Linda Johnson, Shelly Collins Michelle Collins-Bula, John Collins, gather at the

newly displayed Polaris quilt block at the American Legion.

THE POLK COUNTY

May 26, 2021

“Polaris” displayed

“Polaris” is a variation of the 8-point LeMoyne Star pattern, circa 1718 (pronounced Lemon by yankees), a nod to the early French Colonial interest in Arkansas . Designed and Painted by Michelle Collins-Bula in memory of her father Ronald Collins and to honor all the veterans of Polk County. The quilt block was dedicated on Friday, 21 May 2021, at the American Legion, Frank Fried Post #18. A brief memorial service was held, with family members and members of the Honor Guard sharing memories of Senior Chief Collins. A miniature version of the quilt block and a memorial description were presented to the post.

Senior Chief Collins was a decorated veteran serving 22 years in the United States Navy. He was a master marksman honored with the Navy's Distinguished Marksmen medal.

AQCS Collins served as part of the American Legion Honor Guard.

Ronald Leroy Collins, left this

realm, June 10, 2017. He was born in 1940 in Coffeyville, Kansas.

Ronald attended the Christ's Episcopal Church in Mena and was a former Senior Warden. Ronald worked for Kodak Photo for 20 years in Windsor, Colorado.

He was an avid reader and enjoyed woodworking. Ronald loved golfing, shooting, traveling all over the United States with his wife, Shelly on his Goldwing, and supporting the Acorn Archery team. He was a member of NRA, GWRRA, Founding member of Weld Co, Colorado Fish and Wildlife Association, High Power Program, the Ouachita Golf Association, and the Good Sam camping group.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Shelly Collins of Acorn, Arkansas; one son and daughter in law, John and Jamie Collins of Aurora, Colorado; one daughter and son in law, Michelle and John

Pulse

Bula of Wetumpka, Alabama; and three grandchildren Polaris, commonly the North Star, is the brightest star of the constellation Ursa Minor. Navigation by the stars dates back millennia. Mariners have used stars to help guide their ships across thousands of miles of ocean. Polaris was the first star my father taught me to find. Steadfast and constant, Polaris will guide you home. Wishing you smooth seas and clear skies.

The block consists of the colors of the US Military Services; AIR FORCE - Sky Blue and Gold, ARMY - Black and Gold, COAST GUARD Scarlet and Blue, MARINES - Scarlet and Gold, NAVY - Blue and Gold.

The colors of the block have special meaning; GOLD- Honor and Wisdom, AZURE BLUE- Devotion and Loyalty, BLACK- Constancy, CRIMSON- Courage and spilled blood, SKY BLUE- Smooth seas and clear skies

Y A D  L   A r I o n o R H O & r e M b m E e m e MR NIDEC Motor Corporation 500 N Morrow St • Mena AR

Special Olympics 13

THE POLK COUNTY

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Area 14 Special Olympics Held Monday, May 25, 2021

Photos by Trey Youngdahl

We’re Fans! of

1003 MENA STREET • MENA, AR

(479) 243-2053

Continued on pages 14 and 15

Congratulations to All Participants of the

Special Olympics 2021

 Mon-Thurs 10am - 9pm  Fri & Sat 10am - 10pm  Sun 10am - 4pm

Congratulations SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES

14 Special Olympics

Congratulations 2021 Special Olympics Competitors

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THE POLK COUNTY

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RESALE STORE 201 S. Morrow ● Mena, AR 71953

(479) 394-2671

Congratulations to all Special Olympics Athletes!

Special Olympics 15

THE POLK COUNTY

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Photos by Trey Youngdahl Crowds cheered the 97 athletes competing in the Area 14 Special Olympics Monday, with 63 competing in two events and 80 gold medals, 60 silver medals and 20 bronze medals awarded.

Event organizers said athletes had a great day and the weather was very nice. Athletes from Mena High School, Mena Middle School, Holly Harshman Elementary, Cossatot River High School, Magazine Public Schools, Polk County Developmental Center and Booneville Human Development Center representing Polk and Logan Counties in Arkansas. Due to confidentiality, names and times of individual races are not being released to the public.

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Phone 479-394-4111 Cell 479-216-1806

16 Community

May 26, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Sterner House named for white-hat legacy

The Green House Cottages of Homewood have announced one of their cottages has been named the Sterner House in honor of Eddlene (Wanda).

Sterner’s nursing legacy.

Her son, Aubrey Sterner, said his family is proud of his mother’s commitment to the profession.

“There were four of us boys that she raised and after she raised us, she wanted to do something for herself,” Sterner said. “She enrolled in the nursing program. He was reluctant at first, but Dad ended up being very supportive and helped her with her schooling. She became a nurse and wanted to work at nursing home in Mena. She wanted second shift so she could be with patients as they got ready for bed.”

Sterner said for all of her career, his mother wore a traditional nurses uniform of white, complete with hat.

“And I mean that is what she wore regardless.

When all the other nurses started wearing more Photo by Ashley Smith modern scrubs, and she maintained wearing the Aubrey and Ginger Sterner visit the home named after white uniform and one time someone took her Eddlene (Wanda) Sterner at the Green House Cottages white cap away and it devastated her.”

Sterner said the white hat made her stand out of Homewood. as a person that could be identified as someone

who wanted help.

As time passed, Mrs. Sterner encountered health issues that resulted in her being in rehab.

“While in rehab here in Mena, we discovered she thought she was still a nurse. She was telling the nurses how to do their job. You could tell the nurses didn’t want to upset her, because she was such an icon in nursing here.”

Sterner said he has heard his mother’s name is often equated with what it means to be a nurse and is mentioned at nursing programs and medical facilities.

“I always thought that was great thing for her,” he said. “We would like to think she left a footprint in the sand for others to follow. She really enjoyed being a nurse. It takes a very special person to be a nurse in a nursing home because you know your patients may not go home. We are all very proud of her.”

Sterner completed the nursing program around the early1980s and spent approximately 25 years, after first raising children, in her career field.

“To have a cottage named after mom in the nursing realm is overwhelming, it really it,” Sterner said. “She was a really wonderful special person.”

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

THE POLK COUNTY

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May 26, 2021

2020-2021 Bearcat Athletic Awards Announced

The Mena High School Athletic Awards Assembly was recently held at the Mena High School Performing Arts Center.

Cross Country The Mena XC Teams competed very well this season. They finished 2nd overall in the 7-4A conference and 9th overall in the Boys Arkansas State Championships.

Logan Myers led the team with a 1st place finish in the Conference race, 3rd place finish in state, River Valley All Star Gold Medalist honors, and a full scholarship to run XC and Track for UARM. All District: Trevin Plunkett, Tre McMellon, Logan Myers All State: Logan Myers, Tre McMellon Golf The boys and girls golf team this year competed in several matches and did a good job of representing the high school. They competed well and had a lot of fun as a group.

This years Seniors include: Jack Hunter, Andrew Davis, London Copelin Coach Hunter Said “ I will really miss seeing them next year. Especially because one of them is my son.”

Volleyball The Mena Ladycats had another amazing volleyball season in 2020.

They finished with an overall record of 19-3, were co-conference champions, and advanced to the semi finals of the state tournament where they lost in 5 sets to Valley View, the eventual state champion. They finished the season ranked #3 in 4A according to MaxPreps and #10 overall in the state of Arkansas.

What a great season for the Ladycats!

All Conference: Hannah Stockton, Grayson Fairless, Jaiden Milam, Maddison Blair, Ally Wright, Madi Lyle, Katie Valdivinos, Emmi Hines, Brenna Aynes, Andrea Maechler All State All Tournament Team Gracie Lyle (All Star Game) All State: Gracie Lyle, Morgan Puckett, Lauren Sikes Cheer The cheerleaders had a slow start to the year and did not get to compete early on in the season, perform at pep rallies, or travel. The team competed at the Arkansas State Cheer Competition in December and moved up several places in ranks compared to last year. Although the season didn't go as hoped, it was a great year with lots of growth and the team is looking forward to the future.

All-American Cheerleader Nominees: Allie Martin, Ciara Lance, Leilani Day, Jaiden Milam Blake Castor was awarded a scholarship to SAU. Most Spirited - Annalyse Baker Best Performer - Leilani Day and Ci-

AWARDS continued on page 18

Sports 17

18 Sports continued from page 17

OUR

35th

ANNIVERSARY! We’re teaming up with First Financial Bank in Mena to give you a chance to win a

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To register or for additional details visit us in the Northside Shopping Center.

LOCATED IN THE NORTHSIDE SHOPPING CENTER

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Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Closed Sunday

ara Lance Best Overall - Allie Martin Football The 2020 Mena Bearcat football team was able to persevere through a tough non conference schedule to finish their conference season undefeated, which led to the first football conference championship in 24 years. The 4-4A champion Bearcats also were able to host a home playoff game to conclude their season. Thank you Bearcats for an unforgettable season and you will ALWAYS be remembered as Champions.

Honorable Mention All Conference: Jayden Felix, Jacob Flemens, Jordan Roberts, Austin Rose, Bobby Wallis, Jake Wiles All Conference: Jett Baber, Chris Bollmeyer, Jake Brotherton, Blake Castor, Sam Efird, Evan Graves, Caleb Peters, Logan Yang All State: Max Montgomery, Gaven Hooper, Cuay House (Scholarship to

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May 26, 2021

AWARDS COME CELEBRATE

THE POLK COUNTY

Maggie & Tucker

OBU, All Star Game Selection), Mason Brotherton (Division 1 scholarship to Kansas, All Star Game Selection, All Arkansas Preps Selection, All American Selection) The following awards were voted on exclusively by members of the 2020 football team.

Defensive Player of the Year: Cauy House The Offensive Player of the Year AND William G Spencer Football Player of the year : Gaven Hooper Boys Basketball Bearcat basketball worked very hard this season with a very young group.

The team battled for a top 4 spot in the conference and a trip to the regional tournament but unfortunately fell short at the end of post season play.

2nd team all conference honors: Tre McMellon, Trey Day, Blake Brown ALL Conference: Sam Efird ( All Star Team Nominee), Caleb Peters Offensive Player of the Year: Trey Day Defensive Player of the Year: Caleb Peters Jim Rackley Boys Basketball Player of

Happy

Memorial Day It’s the sign of success!

“Helping your dreams become a reality!”

1161 Hwy 71 S. Mena, AR · 479-394-7676

the Year Award: Sam Efird Girls Basketball The 2020-2021 Ladycat Basketball season was full of excitement, and drama. Led by an outstanding senior class the team won several close games, overcame a lot of obstacles, and had one of the most successful seasons in quite some time. Finishing with a record of 22-4, the Ladycats won their 1st conference championship since 1996 and their first district championship since 2001. As the South Region runner-up, the Ladycats played in the State Tournament for the 2nd year in a row.

7-4A girls conference coach of the year: Scott Wright “I am very proud of all the girls on the team. I would like to thank Coach Lyle for everything he does. Everyone associated with this team contributed to the success of this team. We have an opportunity to be very competitive next year also. We are looking forward to another successful season. Go Ladycats!”

2nd Team All Conference: Emmi Hines, Emily Leonard, Ally Wright All Conference: Brooklyn Pennington, Madi Lyle, Hannah Stockton All State Tournament Team: Ally Wright All Star Nominee: Ally Wright, Hannah Stockton All State: Gracie Lyle, Grayson Fairless Teammate Award: (Voted on by the team): Madison Blair Track Mena track had a successful sea-

AWARDS continued on page 19

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May 26, 2021

AWARDS

continued from page 18

son with many individual highlights throughout the year: The Ladycat track team were led in points this year by Madyson Birtcher who participated in Shot Put and Discus this year and finished 4th in discus this year at the conference meet.

The Bearcat track team was led in points this year by Logan Myers who ran in the 4x800 Relay, 800m Run, 1600m Run, and the 3200m run.

State Qualifiers: Emily Wagner-High Jump, Jacob Flemens-Pole Vault, Trevin Plunkett-4x800m, Tre Mcmellon-4x800m, Caleb Peters-4x800m, Logan Yang-Shot Put, Logan Myers-4x800m, 800m, 1600m, 3200m Logan Myers will continue his track/ cross country career at University of Arkansas Rich Mountain next year.

Boys Soccer Bearcat soccer battled through a tough season but ended on a few strong performances including a shootout win over Morrilton and a conference playoff game against DeQueen.

Honorable Mention All Conference: Jayden Felix, Hudson Vacca All Conference: Jetzai Hernandez, Isaac Clark(All Star Game nominee) Team MVP: Isaac Clark Girls Soccer The Ladycat soccer team competed in 12 games this season for a record of 5-5-2. They started off very strong with a non conference record of 4-1. When various injuries began to plague the team in conference play, they exemplified incredible mental toughness to enter the conference tournament as a 3 seed. Unfortunately, they fell just short of making an appearance at State, but did not fall short of making an impression on the teams they played.

All District: Lauren Sikes, Tabitha Levering All State: Stephanie Lua ( All Star Nominee) As voted on by the team: Best Teammate- Tabitha Levering Most Improved- Taylor Thacker Most Valuable Player-Stephanie Lua Baseball

The Mena Bearcat Baseball had some early adversity to overcome along with some key injuries. A couple of highlights for the season: Winning the Mena Baseball Tournament: losing to Waldron in the first game, the team bounced back to defeat both Mt Ida and Mansfield and take the tournament win. The Bearcats were victorious on both Senior Night and the Final game of the season. Playing in a tough competitive double round robin of league play, the Bearcats lost all 7 games the first way through but won 2 games and played everyone much closer as they led late in ballgames vs eventual Conference Champion Bauxite and vs #1 ranked Nashville. Although we lost those games we competed very well and started to learn the game of baseball.

Bearcat Baseball will continue to get better!

All Conference Honorable Mention: Riley Gilbert, Blake Brown, Austin Rose All Conference: Sam Efird, Caleb Peters Defensive Player of the Year- Caleb Peters Offensive Player of the Year and Team MVP- Sam Efird Softball Ladycat Softball finished 9-13 on the season. They Tied for 4th place in their tough,competitive district….. Because of tie breakers and the fact that there was no district tournament this season, They did not qualify for the Regional tournament, but they continued to improve throughout the season and were able to finish their season with a win in their final game. The future of Ladycat softball is bright!

Honorable Mention All-district: Emily Wagner All-District: Emmi Hines, Kensey Rosson All-State and All-Star game nominee: Morgan Puckett State Weight Lifting Junior Logan Yang attended the state weight meet this year in Lake Hamilton where he competed against his peers in classifications ranging from 2A-7A. Logan won his weight class and overall in both Bench Press and Power Clean.

Mr Torix and Coach Bentley BFI SCHOLARSHIP The Bearcat Foundation continues to pursue goals of partnering with the Mena Public Schools with assistance in areas of equipment, facilities and supplies. Thanks to the generous members and supporters, since 2007, BFI has gifted over $465,000 to the Mena Schools . A very important part of their mission is to provide a scholarship for graduates of Mena High School, and today, they are happy to present the BFI scholarship for the 10th year.

The Foundation scholarship differs from others in that it is scored and judged on a blind basis. All applicant’s names, family names, and commonly identifiable accomplishments are omitted from the application once received in an effort to eliminate any possible bias in the scoring process. The applicants are scored based: academic achievement, community involvement, extracurricular achievement, and the compelling nature of the essay that is written for the scholarship.

The committee is anonymous and does not consist of any foundation board members. All scoring is done separately by each member of the committee. The scholarship is $2,000 per student.

This year’s winners of the Bearcat Foundation Scholarship for 2021 are: Ms. Ally Wright and Ms. Madison Blair Ladycats Award The LadyC.A.T.S award is an award given to a Ladycat athlete who has displayed exceptional perseverance and dedication, and demonstrated the key characteristics of the LadyC.A.T.S. award: Character, Attitude, Toughness and Success.

This is an award not necessarily given every year, but only when a Ladycat shows tremendous attributes described by this award.

This year’s winner of the LadyCATS award is Leilani Day Orville McMellon Award The Orville McMellon award is periodically given to a Bearcat athlete who has displayed courage and determination while overcoming adversity. This year’s winner is no stranger to adversi-

Sports 19 ty. In the final game of his sophomore year, he was injured which required major knee surgery. After battling through a tough recovery, he was off to a hot start as one of the statistical leaders in the state for his position when, unfortunately, injury struck again causing him to miss the majority of his Junior season. Coming into his senior season, after many hours of hard work and rehabilitation, he was able to complete his Senior year and help lead his team to a conference championship as one of the best quarterbacks in the state.

This year's winner of the Orville McMellon Award is Max Montgomery.

Frank Mosley Outstanding Senior Girl Athlete & James C Copher Outstanding Senior Boy Athlete The Frank Mosley Outstanding Girl Athlete and the James C Copher Outstanding Boy athlete are longstanding awards given to our most outstanding and deserving Senior boy and girl athlete. These athletes must be involved in multiple sports and display great character in the sport, their school and the community. The awards are voted on by the head coaches from each sport, the athletic director, the assistant athletic director, high school principal and a Mena High School Staff Member. This impact that this year’s winners have had on Mena athletics will be felt for many years to come.

This year’s James C Copher award winner participated in multiple sports at a high level during his Senior Year.

He was awarded All Conference in football, basketball, and baseball. He was a member of the competition cheer team. He is also the student council president and is a member of JAG, East, and Journalism.

This year's James C Copher Award winner is: Sam Efird.

This year’s Frank Mosley award winner excelled in both Volleyball and Basketball where she was awarded All State in both. She was also selected to be a member of the Arkansas Activities Association All Star Volleyball team.

She is a member of Yearbook, NHS and JAG. This year’s Frank Mosley award winner is: Gracie Lyle

20 Police Reports

May 26, 2021

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

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG

May 17, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 8W near Shady Grove of identity fraud.

Report of a one vehicle accident on Polk 76E near Acorn. Deputy responded.

Traffic stop on Dequeen Street near Hatfield led to the arrest of Clinton W. Mahaffey, 36, of Smithville, Oklahoma on two warrants for Failure to Appear, and Charges of Theft by Receiving, Possession of Schedule I or II, Possession of Schedule VI, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Vehicle License.

Report of a property dispute between neighbors on Polk 269 near Vandervoort.

Deputy responded.

Report of a disturbance led to a juvenile being issued a Juvenile Citation for Disorderly Conduct.

May 18, 2021 Report of a small unattended child in the road on Polk 35 near Hatfield. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 663 near Cherry Hill of trespassing. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 198 near Ink of identity fraud.

Report of a road rage incident on Hwy 71S near Hatfield. Deputy responded.

Report of a fire on Polk 56 near Dallas Valley. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 75 near Acorn of an individual violating a No Contact Order.

Deputy responded. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges.

Report of a disturbance led to a juvenile being issued a Juvenile Citation for Battery 3rd Degree and Disorderly Conduct.

Arrested was Robert Castillo, 52, of Hatfield, on two Warrants for Failure to Com-

ply and a Body Attachment Warrant.

May 19, 2021 Report from complainant on Hwy 375W near Shady Grove of identity fraud.

Traffic stop on Hwy 71S led to the arrest of Dante St. Michael, 56, of Boles, Arkansas, on Charges of Driving Left of Center, Possession of Meth or Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License.

Arrested was David W. Howell, 39, of Waldron, Arkansas, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear.

Arrested was Brandon W. Rose, 23, of Mena, on eight Warrants for Failure to Appear.

Arrested was David T. Sinyard, 45, of Mena, on three Charges of Failure to Appear.

May 20, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 168 near Hatfield of a domestic altercation.

Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 49 near Shady Grove of fraudulent activity on a bank account. Deputy responded.

May 21, 2021 Report from complainant on Polk 44 near Dallas Valley of identity fraud.

Arrested was Amber D. Crabtree, 32, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear.

May 22, 2021 Report of a one vehicle accident on Hwy 246 W near Hatfield led to the arrest of Timothy W. Hutson, 55, of Mena, on Charges of DWI, Careless and Prohibited Driving, and Leaving the Scene of an Accident.

Report of a male behaving erratically on Hwy 88E near Mena led to the arrest of Shawn R. Romele, 22, of Mena, on a Charge of Public Intoxication.

Report from complainant on Polk 54 near Dallas Valley of damage to a mailbox.

Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 141 near Cove of a domestic altercation led to the arrest of Justin A. Cole, 31, of Cove on

a Body Attachment Warrant, two Warrants for Failure to Appear, and three Warrants for Failure to Comply.

Arrested was Nickie P. Landfair, 28, of Mena, on two Warrants for Failure to Comply.

May 23, 2021 Traffic stop led to the arrest of Stephen C. Hilton, 33, of Mena, on Charges of DWI, Refusal to Submit, and Defective Signal Lamps and Signal Lights.

Report from complainant on Polk 78 near Potter of a disturbance. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 54 near Board Camp of the theft of road signs.

Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Hwy 8W near Shady Grove of a disturbance. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 117 near Acorn of problems involving a neighbor’s dogs. Deputy responded.

Report from complainant on Polk 24 near Cove of breaking and entering. Deputy responded.

Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration of charges.

Report from complainant on May Lane near Acorn of a theft from a rental property.

Deputy responded.

Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week.

Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 21 Incarcerated Inmates, with 5 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility.

MENA POLICE REPORTS May 16 A report of commercial burglary, breaking or entering, and loitering was taken at Bunch Laundry Mat. A theft report was taken from a walk-in complainant.

Matthew Miller, 39, was charged with charged with Theft of Property (Shoplifting) after a complaint from Walmart.

THE POLK COUNTY

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Justin Keaster, 38, was charged with Fleeing, Refusal to Submit to Arrest, Possession of Schedule 6 Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a trespassing complaint at a residence on Evans Circle.

A report of missing person was taken at a residence on Church Street.

May 17 A report of unauthorized use of a vehicle was taken at the police department.

Amanda Carter, 26, was served with a warrant at the police department.

May 18 Robert Wells, 33, was served with a warrant at the police department.

A report of criminal trespass was taken from Walmart.

A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart.

May 19 A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart.

A report of theft of property (shoplifting) was taken from Walmart.

Paula Drummond, 50, and Christopher Tefft, 25, were charged with Disorderly Conduct after a disturbance call to a room at Executive Inn. A report of a disturbance was taken at a residence on Dequeen Street.

May 20 Clay Breeden, 42, was charged with Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and served with a warrant at the Limetree Inn. May 21 A report of harassment and indecent exposure was taken from a walk-in complainant.

A juvenile was charged with criminal mischief, careless or prohibited driving, and violation of park curfew after a complaint at Tapley Park.

A report of failure to vacate was taken at a residence on 2nd Street.

Donnie Dollarhyde, 47, was charged with Disorderly Conduct, and served with a warrant after a complaint from Walmart.

John Nicholson, 30, was served with two warrants at the police department.

A report of breaking or entering was taken at a residence on Hamilton Street.

May 22 A report of harassment was taken from a walk-in complainant.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Education 21

May 26, 2021

Vandervoort Elementary School Honor Roll 4th 9 Weeks

First Grade- All A’s; Stiles Alexander, Bella Barrett, Zechariah Bennett, Gunner Clark, Lailiah Colbert, Stephen Dau, Ember Davis, Jayne Johnson, Blayze McCoy, Bracyn Richardson, Audrey Sellers, Gwen Sellers First Grade - All A’s & B’s; Everlynn Aaron, Grayson Clark, Jaxon Mullen, Karma Rogers, Autumn Smith Second Grade- All A’s; Cara Cumpton, Max Rye, Brody Ward Second Grade - All A’s & B’s; Dakota Barrett, Easton Owens, Joey Wade, Timothy Williams Third Grade- All A’s; Alicia Aaron, Adelyn Barton, Amelia Espinola Third Grade - All A’s & B’s; Evan Baxter, Smitty Baxter, Alleigh Bennett, Vivi Brewer, Will Rogers, Savanna Seigrist, Maddie Squires, Jeliza Turner, Jolena Turner, Falynn Ward, Max Watkins, Kristina Wilkinson Fourth Grade- All A’s : Lely Anglin, Emily Finley, Joslyn Watkins Fourth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Sydni Hutson, Easton Johnson, Eli Lawrence, Cambree Manning, Matthew Seigrist, Remi Winer Fifth Grade- All A’s; Charlee Fortner Fifth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Makayla Arthur, Lillyann Bennett, Trinity Standridge Sixth Grade - All A’s: Natalie Bailey, Tayden Broach, Cami Burnett, Flint Dickerson, Anthony Johnson, Rylee Manning Sixth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Matthew Dau, Jamey Johnson, Harlee Pannell, Jade Watkins 2nd Semester First Grade- All A’s; Stiles Alexander, Bella Barrett, Zechariah Bennett, Lailiah Colbert, Stephen Dau, Ember Davis, Jayne Johnson, Blayze McCoy, Bracyn Richardson, Audrey Sellers, Gwen Sellers First Grade - All A’s & B’s; Everlynn Aaron, Grayson Clark, Gunner Clark, Madison Holbrook, Jaxon Mullen, Karma Rogers, Rebekah Vandegrift Second Grade- All A’s; Cara Cumpton, Max Rye, Brody Ward Second Grade - All A’s & B’s; Dakota Barrett, Kimber Green, Corbyn Long, Easton Owens, Aiden Romine, Aubree Turner, Joey Wade

Third Grade- All A’s; Alicia Aaron, Adelyn Barton, Smitty Baxter, Amelia Espinola, Max Watkins Third Grade - All A’s & B’s; Evan Baxter, Alleigh Bennett, Vivi Brewer, Jasmine Dunn, Will Rogers, Savanna Seigrist, Maddie Squires, Jeliza Turner, Jolena Turner, Falynn Ward, Kristina Wilkinson Fourth Grade- All A’s: Lely Anglin, Emily Finley, Joslyn Watkins Fourth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Cambree Manning, Matthew Seigrist, Remi Winer Fifth Grade- All A’s; Charlee Fortner Fifth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Makayla Arthur Lillyann Bennett, Brody Creel, Beaudy Lile, Trinity Standridge Sixth Grade - All A’s: Natalie Bailey, Tayden Broach, Flint Dickerson, Anthony Johnson, Rylee Manning, Jade Watkins Sixth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Cami Burnett, Matthew Dau, Jamey Johnson

Vandervoort Elementary

School Perfect Attendance 4th 9 Weeks (2020-2021)

Kindergarten: Honesty Joream, Avanlei Rogers First Grade: Stiles Alexander, Zechariah Bennett, Ember Davis, Madison Holbrook, Jayne Johnson, Trapper Neal, Audrey Sellers, Gwen Sellers, Benjamin Silzell Second Grade: Cara Cumpton, Bryce Cureton, Sarah Davis, Brayden Erwin, Cedric Rogers, Aiden Romine, Joey Wade, Brody Ward Third Grade: Alicia Aaron, Alleigh Bennett, Jasmine Dunn, Savanna Hutson, Will Rogers, Falynn Ward Fourth Grade: Bryden Alston, Madison Broach, Rozena Hunt, Easton Johnson, Daniel Madrid, Cambree Manning, Jace Shouse, ALL YEAR Joslyn Watkins First Grade- All A’s; Stiles Alexander, Bella Fifth Grade: Lillyann Bennett, Barrett, Zechariah Bennett, Lailiah Colbert, Autumn Dunn, Anthony Johnson Sixth Grade: Jamey Johnson, Stephen Dau, Ember Davis, Jayne Johnson, Rylee Manning Blayze McCoy, Audrey Sellers, Gwen Sellers First Grade - All A’s & B’s; Jaxen Mullen, 2nd Semester (2020-2021) Bracyn Richardson, Karma Rogers, Grayson Clark, Gunner Clark Second Grade- All A’s; Cara Cumpton, Max Rye, Brody Ward Second Grade - All A’s & B’s; Dakota Barrett, Joey Wade Third Grade- All A’s; Adelyn Barton Third Grade - All A’s & B’s; Evan Baxter, Smitty Baxter, Alleigh Bennett, Vivi Brewer, Amelia Espinola, Savanna Seigrist, Maddie Squires, Jeliza Turner, Jolena Turner, Max Watkins, Kristina Wilkinson Fourth Grade- All A’s: Lely Anglin, Emily Finley, Joslyn Watkins Fourth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Cambree Manning Fifth Grade- All A’s; None Fifth Grade - All A’s & B’s; None Sixth Grade - All A’s: Rylee Manning Sixth Grade - All A’s & B’s; Natalie Bailey, Tayden Broach, Matthew Dau, Flint Dickerson, Anthony Johnson

Kindergarten: Honesty Joream First Grade: Zechariah Bennett, Ember Davis, Madison Holbrook, Jayne Johnson Second Grade: Cara Cumpton, Bryce Cureton, Sarah Davis, Brayden Erwin, Cedric Rogers, Brody Ward Third Grade: Alicia Aaron, Alleigh Bennett, Will Rogers, Falynn Ward Fourth Grade: Daniel Madrid, Joslyn Watkins Fifth Grade: Lillyann Bennett, Autumn Dunn Sixth Grade: Jamey Johnson All Year (2020-2021) Kindergarten: None First Grade: Ember Davis, Madison Holbrook Second Grade: Cara Cumpton, Bryce Cureton, Cedric Rogers, Brody Ward Third Grade: Falynn Ward Fourth Grade: None Fifth Grade: None Sixth Grade: None

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22 Classifieds CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES - EMPLOYMENT 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 lite deliveries. (870)4901191 T0616

- FOR SALE -

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

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 Sale #3 Still downsizing every room in the house. Good prices on antiques, collectibles& useful household items. Front Porch, 204 Reine St. South. Corner of Reine & Magnolia, Sat., May 29 Rain delays or cancels.

T0526 For Sale - 2017 Ford Taurus Sedan in perfect condition. 7,848 miles, white, leather interior, with all extras. Owner handicapped-no longer driving. $16,500 Call (479) 234-9323 for info.

T0526 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

T0609

- NOTICE I Robert Wayne Dunn, DOB 08-01-1937 to here by cancel my guardian ship and power of attorney for Diana Bevill Taylor DOB 0408-1965. I will not be responsible for any actions or dept by Ms. Taylor.

T0526

- RELIGIOUS END TIME BIBLE QUESTIONS? KING JAMES BIBLE MENA P.O. BOX 645 #1 The Two Witnesses are not Enoch, Elijah or Moses The Question;remains? Who are the Two Witnesses ?

Third clue Do as Jesus tells you in Revelation 1:19 to discover the witnesses, but you must study or continue on to fourth clue.

Fourth clue Revelation 11:4 These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.

Each week, verses will be given until the Two Witnesses are revealed Many will find the answer difficult to believe because it is so amazing.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

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.

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.

T0602

Tri-Lakes Big Bass Tourny rescheduled due to lake levels, rain predictions DE QUEEN - This weekend's 31st Annual Tri-Lakes Big Bass Tournament has been postponed - but fortunately, this year, not because of COVID-19.

Officials with the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce made the decision Sunday to move the tournament back by a week due to lake levels at De Queen, Dierks and Gillham. An extremely wet May has meant all three lakes are above normal elevation and some of the traditional boat landings are completely underwater. And forecasters are calling for plenty more rain this week.

Instead of this Saturday, the bass tournament will now be held June 5.

Organizers hope this will allow enough time for clear weather to move in and lake levels to fall closer to normal levels.

Registration continues is continuing for this year's Tri-Lakes Big Bass Festival. The tournament will be held on De Queen, Dierks and Gillham Lakes. The event will begin at 6 a.m. and continue through 1 p.m. on June 5. Early registration is $45 per person. Boat check and late registration begins at 5 a.m. on all three lakes the day of the tournament.

Check-in will be held at Oak Grove and Rolling Fork landings on De Queen Lake, Coon Creek and Little Coon Creek on Gillham and at Jefferson Ridge on Dierks Lake. Weigh-in sites will be located at all three lakes.

Celebrating & Remembering the

80th Birthday of

Jill Clegg & Twin Brother

Jack Treadwell

All Family & Friends Are Invited Fish Net Lodge Sat. June 5th 1-4 PM Cards Are Welcome

Prizes include $1,500 for catching the biggest bass, $1,000 for second place and so on through fifth place. Prizes are awarded hourly as well for a total of around $10,000 in prize money at this year's tournament.

This year the chamber is offering a registration bundle to participants. For $65, anglers can cover their registration fee and receive a tournament cap.

Wear your hat at hourly weigh-ins and, if your catch takes first place that hour, you'll receive an extra $50.

COVID-19 will still have some impact on this year's tournament. Chamber officials said no award ceremony will be held due to the pandemic.

All winners will receive prize money through the mail.

Polk County Births Mena Regional Health System MAY 14. 2021 TO MAY 21, 2021 Estefani Sanchez Luna of DeQueen, Arkansas is the proud parent of a baby boy born May, 15th Taylor & Bobby Jones of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born May, 17th Tasma Irons & Keith Kennedy of DeQueen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born May, 17th Taylor Rickey & Rey Rivera of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born May, 18th Erika Zamora of DeQueen, Arkansas is the proud parent of a baby girl born May, 19th

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Puzzles 23

May 26, 2021

05.26.21

05.26.21

ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 05.19.21

Why am I here?

Did I do something wrong?

There are too many homeless pets in our area and they are in desperate need of your help. They have come to the shelter for reasons that are not their fault and because they can not survive on their own.

Will you please consider giving one the loving home that they so greatly deserve? You can visit them at...

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE OUACHITAS

I just want to be loved.

TUES. THROUGH SAT. ● 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. 368 POLK 50, MENA, AR

(479) 394-5682

WWW.HSOMENA.ORG

24 State

THE POLK COUNTY

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May 26, 2021

From the

U.S. Senate

YOUR MONTHLY HOROSCOPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Standing with Israel

brutal, unjustifiable violence against the Jewish state must be deterred and President Biden and his administration must lend our nation’s resources and assistance to our partner in its Israel has endured increased hour of need. terrorism and aggression from In the aftermath of this conHamas militants in recent flict, the U.S. government John Boozman should also resume the days, including rockets fired at Israeli cities that have promising efforts undertakkilled and wounded innoen by the Trump administration to foscent civilians. This outbreak of violence ter peace and promote normalization began in early May and has quickly between Israel and its Arab neighbors. escalated into a conflict that has capI, along with over 40 of my colleagues tured the attention of the world. Now, in the Senate, have urged President a ceasefire is in place and we pray for Biden to stand with Israel and to prelasting peace. vent sanctions relief to Iran, the world’s It’s important to remember how we leading state sponsor of terrorism and got here and why the United States’ interests are so closely aligned with the established financier of Hamas’ terror activities. Representatives of the Biden safety and security of Israel.

Hamas, the militant Islamist group administration have been in Vienna, that rules Gaza and has been desig- Austria negotiating a possible return of nated a terrorist organization by the both the United States and Iran to the United States, European Union and Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action United Kingdom, is dedicated to the (JCPOA), also known as the Iran Nudestruction of Israel and serves as Iran’s clear Deal.

In light of this new turmoil in Israel, proxy in the region. The group’s deciit is even more imperative that no new sion to begin firing long-range rockets sanctions relief be afforded to Tehran. at Jerusalem in response to protests and clashes between Palestinians and Israeli If that occurs, it potentially enables the police set off this current round of hos- Iranian regime to further support and finance Hamas’ terror against Israel. tilities.

As we would expect to be the case This is unacceptable.

I have also joined other senators in with any other nation that experiences supporting a resolution condemning terrorism, Israel responded forcefully. the attacks against Israel by Hamas and It launched counter operations against reaffirming the United States’ unwavHamas in Gaza, targeting its infraering commitment to our ally and its structure with airstrikes and seeking to right to take whatever means are nechamper its ability to carry out further essary to stop the murder of its citizens indiscriminate attacks against its peoand foreign nationals residing in Israel. ple and territory.

As the lone democracy in the region Thankfully, Israel’s Iron Dome – part of which is manufactured in Camden, and a stabilizing force in an otherwise Arkansas – has prevented additional unstable and precarious setting, it is damage and loss of life during this un- critical for us to support Israel and adfortunate episode. But the country has vocate for its peace and security now clearly been jolted by the fighting and and permanently.

I will continue to lead efforts to back destruction.

The United States stands with and in and assist the Jewish state, and ensure support of our friend and strategic ally it knows that America will proudly, as it withstands this assault. Israel has unapologetically stand with Israel and an indisputable right to defend itself against those who threaten its existence and secure the safety of its people. This or sovereignty.

SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE AND INTUITIVE HEALING

479-437-4057

by Desirée Eldon Doré Happy birthday Gemini Power number is 2 June will be a great month to plan and formulate goals and wants for the future. “See the life you want and make it happen."

Gemini: That baggage looks awful heavy. Leave the past where it is and focus on your beautifully bright future. This month will be about letting go of fear and anxiety and truly trusting yourself.

Cancer: A failure to plan is a plan to fail. You’ve now got a clear vision of what you want or need. Now, it’s time to make an action plan.

Leo: A penny earned is a penny saved.

You're making moves now that will set you up for long term success. Don't get discouraged by the lack of instant results.

Virgo: You can't take it with you.

Being prepared for the future is great, but what does your quality of life now look like. Finding balance in finance will bring the desired harmony to all other aspects of life.

Libra: Think twice, speak once.

Mercury is in retrograde, and you have a lot to say. Communication is a two-way street. On the plus side this would be a great time to start that book or blog you've been thinking about doing.

Scorpio: Be still and listen. You may be searching for knowledge or answers and have hit a dead end. The truth you seek is yours to find. Trust yourself and your instincts and you'll never be lead astray.

Sagittarius: Your only limitations

are your own. It's time to pull your attention back to yourself. You are the creator of your own experience. Let go of limiting beliefs and sit in gratitude for all the blessings coming your way.

Sit down and write out what you want in the next 5 years. No detail to big or small.

Capricorn: It’s time for action. You've seen what you want now is the time to make it happen. In both business and relationships, you are being asked to move forward. Focus on your clear vision of what you want and believe in yourself.

Aquarius: Intention is the magic of life. If you want to be successful you will. You see what's possible and you know you can achieve it. If you've needed confirmation to go for it, this is it! But before you swing decide where your ball is going to land.

Pisces: Is your check engine light on?

You've poured enough into others now it’s time to look inward and see what fills your cup. Lay down what is not yours and shift focus. Pull your energy back to yourself. Self care is not selfish.

Aries: Feed your soul by making honest connections. It's easy to be guarded with others. No one can understand you if you don't let them see you. This is also a great time in your love life.

If you've fallen for someone, trust yourself and the process. Take a deep breath and allow love to flow.

Taurus: Lick your wounds in private.

There have been some hardships and heartbreaks recently. If you're feeling hurt allow yourself to feel it, but don't let it consume you. Honor your feelings then let them go. Every time something is taken away, something better comes in its place.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

The Polk County Farmer’s Market will be opening Saturday, May 29, at the Historic Depot from 7:00 am-sold out (usually 10:30/11:00). The Market will be open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at the same times for the rest of the season.

Around Town

series at First Presbyterian Church in Mena.

Meetings are each Thursday from 10 am until noon and are open to anyone in the community grieving the loss of a loved one. For more information call 479-234-3419.

The Wickes Daniel Cemetery The Polk County Housing Au- will be open for Memorial Day, May 31, but thority will be closed Monday, May 31st in this year we will NOT have a meeting or a potluck lunch. observance of Memorial Day. Country-Western Dance 7-10 p.m.

Polk County Republican Comon Fridays at the Hatfield Auditorium. Admismittee meets on the 3rd Monday of every month at 5:30pm in the Polk County Library. sion is $7.00. Included is a 50/50 drawing and a snack break based on whatever food The next meeting will be on June 21st. people bring.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at Polk County Republican Com3 p.m. Sundays, at 5 p.m. Tuesdays and at mittee Meeting. We meet on the 3rd 8p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn at the Crossing Church. For information call 479- Monday of every month at 5:30pm in the Polk County Library.

234-8366 or 479-216-3786 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 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.

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Polk County Library will be closed on Wednesday, May 26, to prepare for and host a community meeting with a focus on Information Access for Senior Citizens. This meeting will begin at 2:00p.m. at the library.

All interested individuals are invited to attend..

FBC Basketball Date: May 31st – June 02nd, Monday – Wednesday, 8:00 – 11:30 AM, Begins on Memorial Day, Limited to 50 players. $10 per student for first family member. $5 per student for additional brother or sister!! *Basketball Camp is open to boys or girls, 7 years old to 12 years old. *Camp will be held in the old Hatfield High School gym, Monday through Wednesday. *Sports Ministry Outreach has over 35 years of experience in recreation ministry, Sports Ministry of North TX. Come Join Us! Sponsored by: First Baptist Church of Hatfield.

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Community 25 with Christian ethics and sportsmanship. For more information or to register call First Baptist Church of Hatfield 870-389-6412 or email: fbchhatfield @ gmail.com, You may mail your completed registration form & entry fee to: FBC Hatfield, Attn BB Camp, P O Box 108, Hatfield, AR 71945 It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews. com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event!

To have it in the Polk County Pulse newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!

26 Feature

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021

The Importance of Observing Memorial Day

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2021 will occur on Monday, May 31.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years fol-

lowing the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.

Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.

Early Observances of Memorial Day

Remember and Honor.

MEMORIAL DAY

The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries.

By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating

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their graves with flowers and reciting prayers.

Did you know? Each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. And some records show that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations was organized by a group of formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina less than a month after the Confederacy surrendered in 1865.

Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

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Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Decoration Day On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed.

The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Civil War

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

May 26, 2021 the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Memorial Day Traditions Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C. Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and soldiers buried there. gradually came to be known, origi- memorials. Some people wear a red Many Northern states held simi- nally honored only those lost while poppy in remembrance of those lar commemorative events and re- fighting in the Civil War. But during prised the tradition in subsequent World War I the United States found years; by 1890 each one had made itself embroiled in another major Decoration Day an official state hol- conflict, and the holiday evolved to iday. Southern states, on the other commemorate American military hand, continued to honor the dead personnel who died in all wars, inLIKE US ON FACEBOOK on separate days until after World cluding World War II, The Vietnam War I. War, The Korean War and the wars JAMES 479.234.6244 in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Feature 27 fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend— the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself— unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

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28

May 26, 2021

Congratulations to

Ashley Sullivan 2nd Runner-up in the

Mrs. Arkansas Pageant Thank You To All Our Sponsors Whitley Lind Photography Family and Friends Simply Southern Home Solutions The Carriage House Inn Chicollo’s Food Emporium State Farm Agent Telissa Montgomery Janssen Park Place B&B Repops Hair and All That Jazz

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Mrs. Mena named 2nd Runner Up at State Pageant Ashley Sullivan, Mrs. Mena, competed in the state-wide Mrs. Arkansas Pageant May 15 and was awarded second runner up.

“Last night was incredible, one I will never forget! I was blessed to meet some amazing women,” Sullivan said of the competition.

“The Lord put me right where I needed to be. I’m so thankful and honored for the opportunity to represent as Mrs. Mena in the Mrs. Arkansas America Pageant. I also want to thank my family, friends and sponsors for your love and support,” she continued. “I hope that others will be inspired to know that who were are on the inside is so very important for the external to shine.”

The competition included an interview, on-stage question, the traditional bathing suit competition and evening gown competition.

Married women who are US citizens, Arkansas residents and are at least 18 years of age are eligible to participate in the pageant.

For more information, contact Pageant director Lynn Dejarnette 870-6921689.

Sponsors who contributed to Sullican’s success include: Whitley Lind Photography Family and Friends Simply Southern Home Solutions The Carriage House Inn Chicollo’s Food Emporium State Farm Agent Telissa Montgomery Janssen Park Place B&B Repops Hair and All That Jazz Participating in the pageant were: Mrs. Central Arkansas, Olivia Stroud; Mrs. Conway, Lauren Hum; Mrs. Faulkner County, McKenna Sherwood; Mrs. Garland County, Kimberly Anderson; Mrs. Hot Springs, Anita Abraham; Mrs. Jacksonville, Elissie Railey; Mrs. Mena, Ashley Sullivan; Mrs. Northeast Arkansas, Amanda Dunavant; Mrs. Ozark Mountain, Kim Stephens; Mrs. Pulaski County, Veronica McKnight; Mrs.Tri-Lakes, Shari Bales.