The Polk County Pulse September 29 2021

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

September 29, 2021

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Hometown Heroes

INSIDE:

BEHIND BARS:

Offender Gets Max Sentence

By Trey Youngdahl

MHS HOCO

Pages 11-19 Modern Woodmen of American Chapter 13545, Mena, recently recognized Mena Regional Health System as its 2021 Hometown Hero.

The award gives Modern Woodmen an opportunity every year to honor an individual or organization for their outstanding service to the local community. MRHS received a certificate of appreciation and a $100 voucher to be given to a local charity.

FIRE WEEK

A sex offender was sentenced to 80 years last week after a jury returned a guilty verdict.

Joseph Chapman, was found guilty of two counts of rape after only approximately 40 minutes of jury deliberation.

In count one the victim was under 14, and in the second count the defendant was a guardian over the victim.

Special Judge Charles Yeargan presided and ordered the sentences to run consecutively, for a total of 80 years. The range of punishment for count one was 25-40 years in the Arkansas Depart-

See COURT page 2

Page 24

County set to lose 2 JP districts Census shows decreased population in Polk County

By Jeri Pearson

EDUCATION

Pages 25-27

Despite a real estate boom being a topic of conversation in the past year, the US Census, which counted residents across the country and concluded in 2020, shows the number of residents calling Polk County home has decreased.

At the Polk County Quorum Court meeting on August 24, Justice of the Peace were informed two of their seats would be squelched as a result.

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County Judge Brandon Ellison said the finalized census numbers have been released.

“It is not what we had hoped for, as Polk County has lost approximately 1,400 people since the last census.” Ellison said. “This will make Polk County a class two county. We will lose two JP districts, some general turnback funds and highway funding. Depending on the population numbers it could affect the distribution of sales tax monies.”

Ellison said the county has contract-

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ed with DataScout to redraw district boundary lines and will be done sometime in the next few months after congressional boundary lines have been completed at the state level.

Ellison also provided an update on the vacancy in JP District 9 and noted the resolution declaring the vacancy has been sent to the governor's office and an appointment will be made, probably in the next two to three months.

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September 29, 2021

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ment of Corrections or life and count two was 10-40 years or life. Chapman will be eligible for release from prison after he serves 70% of his sentence and he will be required to be registered as a sex offender.

The Prosecuting Attorney D. Jason Barrett and Chief Deputy Debra Wood Buschman presented a case with testimony from the victim as well as investigators.

“I am the proudest of the bravest person to testify today,” Buschman said after the trial. “Justice is often slow and sometimes difficult, but today it was right.”

Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer publicly thanked Buschman and Barrett.

“Thank you for your great work presenting this very difficult case today,” Sawyer said. “You guys did a great job.

Thank you to all my guys that worked so hard putting this case together. It’s been a long haul but it was worth it.”

He also thanked the jury and victim.

“It was a tough one and we appreciate you for, what I believe was, a just verdict and an appropriate sentence,”

he said. “Thank you to a special young lady for your grace and courage.”

Buschman noted the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office, including former Chief Deputy Michael Godfrey, current Chief Deputy Randy Jewell, and Deputy Mark Cannon, as well as 18th West Investigator Elena Cannon and DTF Investigator David Hall, for “an outstanding job investigating and building this case.”

“They followed all leads, interviewed numerous witnesses, obtained and executed multiple search warrants, collected evidence and had it analyzed by the State Crime Lab, and at the end of the day we were confident that their efforts would result in convictions on both counts,” Buschman said. “This Polk County Jury listened attentively and thoughtfully rendered a just verdict. Although the State had very good physical evidence, like DNA, the victim’s bravery and candor are what ultimately made the case. All of the State’s witnesses are the real heros in this case who boldly told the truth. Each was instrumental in putting this dangerous sexual predator behind bars.”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Menaʼs Fall Clean-Up Begins Oct. 25 The City of Mena’s 18th Annual Fall Clean-Up is scheduled to begin on Monday, October 25. Only yard waste items will be picked up (tree limbs, shrubs, leaves, grass,etc.). Please place items at curbside prior to Monday, October 25th to insure they will be collected.

It is required that smaller items, such as small limbs, gumballs, and leaves, be placed in garbage bags.

This service is free for the residents of Mena. The Mena Street Department will begin collection in the Northwest part of the city and work their way across town following the same routes as Southern Disposal.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

September 29, 2021

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

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Our Team: Ashley Smith - General Manager Jeri Pearson - Editor Ethan Nahté - Production Manager John Russell - Graphic Design Trey Youngdahl - Reporter / Photographer Curt Teasdale - Programmer / On-Air Personality Jim Pinson - Morning Personality Jackye Pruitt - Senior Account Executive Ariel Varner - Receptionist Distribution & Insertion Staff: Dan & Linda Deramus, Jason Sharp, Edward Werkhoven 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.

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Your Pulse

Dear Editor, Has anyone traveled east on Hwy 246E of Vandervoort in Polk County. It needs more than a centerline.

KD Watkins

Dear Editor, We are writing this letter to you because we’d like to recognize a very special person. During this time of negative energy with COVID, we need to shine a light of positivity.

Our coworker Tammy Sockey is the most amazing CAN. She never fails to cover shifts with a great attitude. She, as the team leader, is very involved with every aspect of her elders and her coworkers. Any time an elder is sad or lonely Tammy steps in and spends the extra time they need to feel encouraged again. There isn’t a single elder that doesn’t feel loved every time Tammy is there.

Tammy is the first one to notice when a coworker needs an extra day off.

She either can fill in or she finds her coworker coverage. Because of her dedication, our cottage has had no missed shifts. She makes the rest of us excited to come to work and help out our fellow cottage sisters.

There isn’t a problem that Tammy hasn’t noticed and taken care of. She is quite literally the voice of our cottage.

Tammy is wonderfully competitive! We have either won or tied for first place in every competition because of her dedication. There isn’t a cottage sister that wouldn’t do anything for her. Because of her leadership skills our cottage is the most sought after for new hires. This is truly a woman who loves both her job and her elders.

So thank you Tammy Sockey for being you! Happy Birthday~! We all love you, KR, LB, AH, SH, JG, JL, AH, AM, BH, AS, CM Your cottage sisters

News 3

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4 News

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

September 29, 2021

Scarecrows are Coming to Downtown!

Submitted by Judy Thompson Linda Ostman, Mena Downtown Partners President, advises that the first Pick of the Patch Scarecrow Competition in 2020 was so much fun that MDP is doing it again. The competition is open to all businesses and organizations in the Mena area.

Although the scarecrows will be set up in downtown, any business or organization in the area may enter. Businesses in downtown will have their entries set up on the sidewalk in front of their businesses. When registering, other businesses/groups will be assigned an area in front of a building which doesn’t have a business in it presently.

Scarecrows may be anything “family friendly”.

The custom-designed scarecrows may match the feel of the business, have some type of theme or simply be of traditional design. No political scarecrows, please. In addition, a traditional fall display

with hay and fall decorations may be set up as long as it has at least one type of scarecrow included.

To advise interest in being a part of the Pick of the Patch, send email to: scootiejudy@gmail.com. Give business or group name and contact individual’s name and phone number. Complete information will then be forwarded. If outside of the downtown district, sidewalk setup location will be assigned before setup date. Deadline for replying is October 5. Scarecrows will be on display from October 16 through November 5.

There is no fee to enter. There will be two types of judging: by judges and People’s Choice. Winners will receive “Bragging Rights” trophies.

Judy Thompson, MDP Downtown Business Liaison, encourages all businesses and organizations in the Mena area to be a part of the Pick of the Patch Scarecrow Competition and make downtown a really fun place to stroll this fall.

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THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Editorial 5

September 29, 2021

From the

State House of Representatives

House members are expectThe Senate and House State ed to return to the Capitol on Agencies and Governmental Wednesday, September 29, to Affairs Committees held two address congressional redismeetings this week to review tricting. previously filed proposals.

The Arkansas legislature reOn Monday, committee views congressional districts members reviewed three map after every U.S. Census to see proposals. On Thursday, if changes to boundary lines John Maddox members reviewed an addiare needed. This once-a-detional four proposals. cade review process is called The committees will meet again on “redistricting.”

Monday, September 27, to review the Arkansas is divided into four conmost recently filed proposals. The pubgressional districts. lic is welcome to attend committee Traditionally, the legislature votes meetings and comment on the proposon those new boundaries at the end of als. a Regular Session. This year, however, You can find links to the proposed there was a delay in the census gathermaps presented this week at www.aring and release of data.

In April of this year, the 93rd General kansashouse.org. On the website, you Assembly voted to take an extended re- can also find links to live streams and recorded videos of previous meetings. cess until the data became available.

As a reminder, the Arkansas Board The data shows that some areas of the state have increased in population more of Apportionment is responsible for rethan others. Our task now is to redraw drawing the state senate and state repthe congressional boundaries to ensure resentative districts. The board consists they are as equally populated as possi- of the Governor, Attorney General, and Secretary of State. You can find more ble.

Members began filing proposals ear- information on that process at www.arlier this month. kansasredistricting.org.

Contact Your Legislators!

John Maddox

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

Larry Teague

Larry.Teague@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 903 Nashville, AR 71852 Phone: (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 First District of eastThe Senate and House ern Arkansas is known for Committees on State Agenits row crop agriculture. The cies and Governmental AfFourth District is known for fairs are reviewing bills to its forests and timber prodraw new geographic boundduction. aries for the four CongresSince 2011 Chicot and sional Districts in Arkansas, Desha Counties have been in preparation for a session of the entire legislature at the Larry Teague in the First Congressional District. end of the month.

The State Agencies Committees will At its first meeting the joint committee reviewed three proposed meet a third time before the entire House bills. All three would move legislature is scheduled to convene on Pope County to the Fourth Congres- September 29 to approve new maps. sional District, which encompasses Statewide Broadband Consultant most of southern Arkansas.

The state is close to hiring a consulPope County has been part of the Third Congressional District of tant that will develop a master plan for broadband expansion. northwest Arkansas.

Three state departments will choose The population of Northwest Arkansas has grown tremendously since from private firms that are bidding on 2011, when the current Congressional the $4 million contract. They are the Districts were drawn. South Arkansas Commerce Department, the Finance lost population during the same de- and Administration Department and the Parks, Heritage and Tourism Decade.

Moving Pope County from the partment.

Department directors told the Third to the Fourth District is an effort to make the two more equal in Legislative Council that a selection should be ready for lawmakers to repopulation.

At the second meeting of the State view within about a week.

When the question arose about the Agencies Committees, legislators scheduled a review of three Senate involvement of Parks and Tourism, proposals and a fourth House propos- one senator noted that the department has land across Arkansas “where there al.

The three Senate bills would also is zero broadband coverage.”

Arkansas has approved $279 milmove Pope County. They also would divide Pulaski County between two lion for 132 broadband projects, or three separate Congressional Dis- and the governor announced that he tricts. Pulaski County has traditional- would try to invest an additional $250 ly been the largest population hub of million in grants this year for Internet the Second District of central Arkan- expansion.

The legislature facilitated the prosas.

Another issue to be decided by state cess of getting broadband grants legislators is whether to place Chicot when it created the Rural Broadband and Desha Counties in the First or ID program last year.

Rural Broadband ID grants help the Fourth District. The counties are in the southeast corner of the state, local governments pay for data such where the White River and the Arkan- as due-diligence studies, surveys and maps of available service. That insas River join the Mississippi River.

Farmers in both counties raise row formation usually costs more than a crops such as soybeans, corn, rice, small town has available in its annual budget. wheat and cotton.

6 Obituaries

THE POLK COUNTY

September 29, 2021

Connie Lea Gilchrist

Connie Lea Gilchrist, age 52, of Ink, died Saturday, September 25, 2021, at CHI St. Vincent Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She was born on Thursday, July 17, 1969, to Charles Russell Bates and Opal Fern Murphy Bates in Mena, Arkansas.

Connie always took life one day at a time and let God and Family guide her. She attended the Little Hope Baptist Church and helped with Church Camps and in the kitchen. Connie worked at Walmart for seventeen years and brought smiles to all she worked with and saw every day. She liked to listen to Gospel, Bluegrass, and Country Western music and had many hobbies. Connie enjoyed sewing and crafts, as well as growing flowers and taking care of baby animals. She got the most joy from spending time with her grandchildren, whom she had never-ending love. Connie also loved to watch animals and take in the simple beauty of different flowers. She was a member of the Acorn Oaks 4-H Club.

Connie was a loving wife, stepmother, grandmother, aunt, and friend and she will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her father, Charles Bates; and one brother, Tracy “Mudflap” Bates.

Connie is survived by her loving husband Jay Gilchrist of Ink; her mother and stepfather, Fern and Loyd Knight of Cherry Hill; two stepdaughters and son-in-law, April Gilchrist of Odessa, Texas, and Brittney and Brandon Spoon of Odessa, Texas; five grandchildren, Timothy Spoon, Levi Spoon, Jonathan Spoon, Jason Spoon, and Noah Spoon all of Odessa, Texas; nephews, Justin Bates of Perryville, Arkansas and Austin Smith; her dog, Thumbilina; her cat, Tuxedo; several nephews and nieces, and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 1, 2021, at 10 a.m. at the

Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Andy Kennedy and Brother Rusty Lewis officiating.

Interment will follow at the Concord Cemetery in Ink under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 30, 2021, from 6-8 p.m. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel Pallbearers will be Jim Boyd, Neal Thomas, Colton Hendricks, Duane Powell, Dennis Powell, and Stanley Wagner.

Honorary Pallbearers are Jerry Hemsbrough, Danny Hemsbrough, James Gentry, and Dewight Powell.

Online Guestbook: bowserffh.com

Lee Ray Lane

Mr. Lee Ray Lane passed away Monday, September 20, 2021, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born January 26, 1971, in Chehalis, Washington, to Thomas and Reita (Boling) Lane.

Mr. Lane was a graduate of the Crown Academy in Washington as a correctional officer. However, he worked as a lineman, in his lifetime and found great joy in his job. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and was known to be a gun enthusiast. He enjoyed watching TV, riding 4-wheelers, and spending time with his grandbabies, Memphis and Jentry. Mr. Lane loved his family and loved spending any time he could with them.

Mr. Lane is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Lane. He is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Lane; sons, Joshua and wife Autumn Lane, Jason and wife Kelsie Lane; stepson, Brance Seymour; daughters, Rachel Lane, and Chelbi Seymour; grandchildren, Memphis, Peyton, Khloe, Jentri, Emersyn, Tressie, BryarLynn, Taton, Caleb, Jaxton, and Boston; brother, Mark and wife Tina Lane; sister, Karen and husband Carl Lane; and by his beloved dog, Leahber.

Graveside services will be held Fri-

day, September 24, 2021, at 2 p.m. at the Watson Cemetery in Watson, Oklahoma. Brother Jeff Mattox will be officiating the services, under the guidance of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Wanda Lee Snitker

Wanda Lee Snitker of Fort Smith, Arkansas passed away on Friday, September 17, 2021, at

the age of 87.

She was born on April 29, 1934, to the late Arlie Bethel and Hazel (Harrison) Liles in Nunley, Arkansas. Her great joy and pleasure included serving as a Pastor’s Wife and a dedicated Homemaker. Mrs. Snitker was also a long-time member of Victory Temple in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and she dearly loved her church family. She enjoyed sewing, crochet, painting, reading, and she loved to spend time with her family and grandchildren.

Mrs. Snitker is preceded in death by her parents; by her loving husband, Reverend Lowell Snitker; and two sisters, Eva Lou Liles and Florece Calicott.

Mrs. Snitker is survived by her daughter, Brenda Turner and husband Mike of Fort Smith, Arkansas; her sons, Darrell Snitker and wife Vanissa of McKinney, Texas, Rod Snitker and wife Rachel of Anna, Texas, and Dr. Keith Snitker and wife Julie of Kansas City, Missouri; grandchildren, Serennah Marrone of Cumby, Texas, Derek Snitker of Lavon, Texas, Michele Luu of Pocola, Oklahoma, Jake Snitker, Kaden Snitker and Molly Snitker of Bentonville, Arkansas, Chayce Snitker and Jordyn Snitker of Kansas City, Missouri; great-grandchildren, Presleigh Riggs, Landie Riggs, Rayce Luu, Isabella Marrone and Cruz Marrone; and her brother John Aaron Liles of Sherwood, Arkansas; as well as many nieces, nephews, all of who were very dear to her.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Pulse

Lonnie Joe Cecil

Lonnie Joe Cecil, age 59, of Cove, Arkansas, passed away Monday, September 20, 2021, in Mena, Arkansas.

He was born May 7, 1962, in De Queen, Arkansas, to Thomas William Cecil and Winnie Milam Cecil. Lonnie was a paint stripper for Crider Aircraft.

He enjoyed hunting, camping, and going to the Turkey Track Bluegrass Festival. He was a knowledgeable mechanic who was trusted by many to fix their vehicles. Lonnie also enjoyed catching up on the latest news with his friends at Scotty’s Convenient Store in Cove. Lonnie also served on the Cove Volunteer Fire Department for many years. Above all, Lonnie loved his family and enjoyed time spent with them.

Mr. Cecil is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas William and Winnie Milam Cecil. He is survived by his son Phillip and wife Nicola Cecil; daughter, Adonna McKay; granddaughter, Jozlyn Cecil; brothers, Boyd and wife Dawn Cecil, and Neil and wife Jeanette Cecil; nephews, Josh Cecil and Johnathon Cecil, and nieces Tiffany Cecil and Amanda Cecil.

Mr. Lonnie Joe Cecil’s cremation services are entrusted to Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Revival Center in Cove, Arkansas, on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 2 p.m.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Faith 7

September 29, 2021

An Arkie’s Faith: Happy Birthday

by Richie Lawry

The sun shone softly, and an occasional oak leaf drifted down onto the freshly mowed grass in my backyard. Across the yard, large letters proclaimed Happy Birthday. As I looked out over the deck and patio, I felt a sense of satisfaction. Everything was ready for my Daddy’s 85th birthday celebration. We had worked hard for two days preparing for the party, and guests would be arriving soon.

Before long, family members from Missouri, Texas, Louisiana, and Kansas were eating, visiting, laughing, and wishing Daddy a happy birthday. Kids were playing in the yard as they got to know cousins who they had never met before. Family, who hadn’t seen each other for quite some time, were catching up over plates heaped with food. After everyone was full, three birthday cakes were brought out; one for Daddy and cakes for my two granddaughters whose birthdays were very soon. After presents were opened, people visited long into the evening.

As I finally sat down, tired and weary, but still basking in the glow of the beautiful day spent with family, my mind began to wander. I thought about other birthday celebrations I had attended. I wondered how the tradition of celebrating birthdays with parties and gifts began. Have you ever thought about why we celebrate birthdays? When you think about it, they’re just an opportunity for your friends and family to come together and congratulate you for surviving another year. But for some reason, it’s become far more than that.

Although research on the origin of celebrating birthdays is inconclusive, there is enough of a consensus to piece together an approximate history. We learn about the first birthday party on record from the Bible. In Egypt, the Pharaoh was celebrating his birthday. Genesis 40:20 (NLT) tells us, “Pharaoh’s birthday came three days later, and he prepared a banquet for all his officials and staff.” Here we have a mention of a birthday and what seems to be a typical birthday celebration.

In ancient times, celebrating birthdays was only for kings and other significant people. Wealthy members of Greek society would gather in their spacious villas and share gifts, food, and wishes with their family

and friends on specific days. Candles, which were a part of religious offerings and rituals, were part of the celebration.

Like so many of our modern traditions, birthdays have roots in old Greek and Roman traditions. The Greeks and Romans gave us the practice of presents, candles, and parties for birthdays. The Romans were the first to celebrate the birth of the ordinary person.

Before the Romans, only kings and rulers celebrated birthdays. However, Roman citizens would celebrate the birthdays of their friends and family members.

Any Roman turning 50 years old would receive a special cake baked with wheat flour, olive oil, grated cheese, and honey.

During the Middle Ages, most European Christians had a patron saint, which they celebrated annually. During this time, kings and other rulers celebrated their personal birthdays, using it as an excuse to hold tournaments, celebrations, feasts, and bask in their subjects’ adoration.

During this time, ordinary Europeans celebrated their patron saint’s feast day. The saint’s birthday was adopted as their own birthday and marked accordingly. Christians used the old Roman and Greek traditions of candles, gifts, gatherings, and offerings in their new traditions.

As the Reformation swept through Europe, a new idea of individualism brought about the beginning of the modern birthday. With new ideas of personal freedom, people started celebrating their own birthday rather than the day of their saint’s birth. As modernization, individualism, and wealth continued to spread through the seventeenth, eighteenth, and

nineteenth centuries, so did the idea of celebrating one’s birthday. This gradual growth of birthday traditions continued into the twentieth century where it became nearly universal. Even if modern people don’t go all out in celebrating their special day, everyone knows what their birthday is and acknowledges it when it comes around every year.

What started as an ancient tradition for monarchs to celebrate their closeness to the gods turned into widespread religious ceremonies before becoming a day to celebrate one’s birth. Next time you celebrate your birthday, or the birthday of a close friend or family member, remember that the tradition stretches back thousands of years and has a long and winding path from the mists of time to the present day.

Birthdays are a wonderful experience. They are a moment we celebrate the anniversary of our birth and give thanks for another year of life! They are an opportunity to show our love to family and friends by sharing heartfelt gifts and words of appreciation. But most of all, birthdays are a reminder of how much our heavenly Father loves us. He brought us into the world, knowing us even before our conception. God told Jeremiah, “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart.” Jeremiah 1:5 (NLT) David expressed it this way; “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.” Psalms 139:13-16 (NLT) Gentle Reader, birthdays remind us of our beginnings with God. He set us apart for His purposes. We were born to live for God. Although birthday celebrations aren’t commanded or prohibited in the Bible, Psalm 90:12 (ESV) says, “teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” On your next birthday, I hope you will be able to say to God, “I have relied on you from the day I was born. You brought me safely through birth, and I always praise you.” Psalm 71:6 (CEV)

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8 History

September 29, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Reflections from History and Faith Judges In Perspective

By Jeff Olson Next week is the first Monday in October, the day that the U.S. Supreme Court convenes following its summer recess. I would like to take this occasion to briefly address the role of judges, from the perspectives of both the Bible and American History.

I hope this provides some perspective as our nation struggles with a host of crises, mostly of our own making and primarily rooted in our declining moral fabric, our ignorance of our nation's history and constitution, and a refusal to “govern ourselves according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments of God.” (James Madison) Isaiah 33:22 states, “For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us.” This verse is not only a personal testimony and teaching of Isaiah, but it succinctly summarizes an eternal truth about the sovereignty and wisdom of God in the personal and civil affairs of man. This verse also represents a primary reference and cornerstone of the Biblical foundation for America’s civil government as manifested in the separation of powers through the judicial, legislative, and executive branches.

Our nation’s Founders implemented this design for government because they understood the fallen nature of man (Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 3:10), and that for power and authority to reside in any one person or small group of persons would invite corruption and tyranny. Thus, a system of checks and balances was built into America’s government to minimize the danger of any one segment dominating the others (Federalist No.51). God’s design was and still is that those who serve in government leadership capacities do so as extensions of His authority (Romans 13:1-7).

This was more true for the judges God appointed than for anyone else in leadership because they represented His moral authority as well as His laws (II Chronicles 19). It is especially true for those judges in our federal government since they serve by appointment rather than as elected servants. In Exodus 18:21, God instructed the people to “select out of all the people able men who fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; and you shall place these over them, as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens.” Here, we see three principles set in place. First - the importance that God placed on judges, second - the requirements he placed for them, and third - the importance of the decentralization and distribution of their authority.

Since God himself was a judge, He knew how important this role was and he expected only those to be chosen who respected, served and trusted Him (Psalm 2:10-11), who were honest, who knew His laws and who would be accountable to Him (Ezra 7:25-26). As a matter of fact, judges were so important that in His great mercy He raised them up to deliver the people of Israel from disobedience and rebellion (Judges 2:16-18) through seven apostacies over about a 350-year period of their history. These judges were not ruling governors but were great leaders whom God sent to deliver His people during bout after bout of disobedience. Israel had no capital and no fixed government then, so each tribe acted independently, which made her a nation of instability, anarchy, and confusion for much of those years. There was confusion in the religious life of the nation (Judges 17,18) and there was confusion in the moral and political life of the nation (Judges 19). Does this ring with any familiarity? It should, because the history of the Church, the biography of many Christians, and the history of America has often paralleled this pattern.

The choice Israel made of personal disobedience and having no government accountable to God proved to be a dark period of her history.

Is America, like Israel, also making that choice in our period of history? Is the Judiciary still the branch of our government "least dangerous to the political rights of the Constitution" (Federalist No.78). Are judges persons of truth and integrity who respect God and understand that human (civil) law in America is historically rooted in eternal law and natural law? Are judges persons who subscribe to the rule of law and adhere to the original text and intent of our constitutional and respond in kind with the jurisprudence and precedents established thereof by their early predecessors? Or do judges see it as did Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes: “We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is.” With a properly functioning legislative branch and a vigilant citizenry, judges should be held accountable to the provisions of our Constitution, including the consequences for failing to serve with “good behavior” (Article III, Section 1).

As with the nation of Israel during the period of the Judges, America is in a sense also in a period of judges; a period of disobedience and of confusion in her moral, religious, and political life. However, unlike in Israel then, God has not raised up judges to deliver us. Rather, He has allowed us to be delivered by judges given free reign out of our own ignorance,

apathy and complacency. Where they could deliver us ought to be apparent by now and it may very well be that, like Israel, we will turn to God and get serious as American citizens only when we’ve reached rock bottom in our spiritual bankruptcy and moral decadence. Perhaps we’ve not much further to go.

The good news is that God raised up Jesus Christ so that through Him we can each choose to be delivered into eternal life. That eternal life begins in the here and now and must include a desire and resolve to serve as the salt and light needed not only to carry out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) but also to preserve the inherent civil social order of our communities, state, and nation. This was instrumental in making America a nation of free people with liberty under law and it will be instrumental if we are ever to reclaim our heritage. In Isaiah 1:26 God expressed a desire to restore the nation of Judah of whom her judges were a vital key. Today, He has the same desire to restore America, but He still requires repentance (II Chronicles 7:13-14).

We can no longer afford to continue allowing the moral fabric of our society to be unraveled and our social and civil institutions dismantled and replaced not only by judges (at all jurisdictional levels) but also others in positions of government authority who lack moral clarity and refuse to acknowledge and carry out their responsibilities within the requirements and limits of their constitutional authority. Today, in this vein, we can also include those in special interest groups who seek to destroy our culture, discredit and rewrite our history, exploit our ignorance, and divide us along racial, political and other distinctions. In Hosea 4:6, we are reminded, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge....since you have forgotten the law of your God.” In the words of James Madison, "There are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations." And, as John Randolph of Roanoke observed, with reference to the tendencies of the federal courts in his own time, “I can never forget that the Book of Judges is followed by the Book of Kings.”

Carved above the main entrance of the Supreme Court building are the words EQUAL JUSTICE UNDER LAW. Only by returning to an understanding of the source of that LAW and His foundational and historical role in our nation's moral clarity and civil social order will we ever be equipped nor empowered to restore our nation.

PulseNews THE POLK COUNTY

Humor 9

September 29, 2021

Around Town

Ouachita Little Theatre is holding auditions

Book Study for information call 479-243-0297.

for their December production of “Doublewide Christmas.”

This comedy directed by Amanda Baker requires several

Flu Clinic Drive Through will be held at the

adult roles for males and females. Auditions are at OLT on

Polk County Health Unit, Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

October 2 from 10-noon and October 4 from 6-7 PM. Cove First Baptist Church presents Kids Under ConThe Cossatot Senior Center will continue

struction begining Oct. 4 and each following Monday, 8am-3pm.

Drive Thru and Home Deliveries as normal. Congregate

Pre-registration is Oct. 3, 4-6pm. Program provides breakfast,

Dining will remain suspended thru October 31st.

lunch, and snack. No cost. Call (870) 387-6631 for more info.

Vandervoort Elementary School will host the annual Fall Festival from 5-7:30 p.m. on Friday, October 1, 2021. There will be games with prizes, and a cake walk.

Tickets will be 50¢ each. Everyone is welcome to attend and help make this annual event a success!

The members, fire fighters and board of directors of the Dallas Valley Rural Volunteer Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to join us for our Annual Business Meeting and BBQ dinner. The Meeting will be held at the fire station on Old Airport Rd. or 229 Polk 52, Saturday, October 2nd, 2021, starting at 5pm. There will be

Walkers & Runners, Women Run Arkansas, 10-week free clinic beginning August 31, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30pm, Mena High School Track. Sign-up@ womenrunarkansas.net, Mena WRA 5k Training Clinic on Facebook, for more info contact: teddi_sullivan@yahoo.com GriefShare continues to meet every Thursday from 10am - noon at First Presbyterian Church Mena for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 3pm Sundays, at 5pm. Tuesdays and at 8pm Saturdays at the old bus barn at

a donation boot available for any non-members who wish

the Crossing Church. For information call 479-234-8366 or 479-

to attend. Please join us if you can.

216-3786

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 7pm Monday, at 7pm

Itʼs easy to have your event listed in

Thursday, at 7pm Friday, and at 6pm Saturday at the old bus

Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA

barn at the Crossing Church. For information call Erica at 479-

and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement

216-7249.

to news@mypulsenews.com or call 479-243-9600 and let us know about your event! To have it in the Polk County Pulse

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 8pm Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. Discussion/

newspaper, we need to know by FIVE on FRIDAY. We look forward to continuing to serve the community!

Hogspore News Two Pot Pie is Back

By Clet Litter from the Ozarks I seen Mean Ol Harley Spears in front of Bickum’s Hardware loading his buckboard with supplies. He saw me looking at him and yelled, “What are you looking at? How bout I come over there and send you home with something broken?”

I hollered back, “No, thank you. I don’t believe I’d like that.” I knew I could take him cause of my CIA training, but then I remembered four things: 1. That instruction was thirty years ago. 2. I wasn’t really paying attention in class. 3. I regarded the pitchfork in his wagon. 4. Harley has a Flung Fork black belt in farm implements.

When full-on winter gets here, we won’t see Spears again til spring. He’s hunkered down at his place out of town. Hogspore will enjoy some peace from that ornery feller. Every year, the high school choir gives a concert in December to celerbrate Winter Without Spears. They end with the finale, Many Silent Nights.

It always receives a standing ovation from Sheriff Riley Combover. He’s the feller who has to straighten out all Harley’s messes.

Two Pot Pie is visiting his brother, Hardy Barkins.

He’s taking a break from his rap tour. TPP has written another song, but his record company won’t share it till it’s on the air. Two Pot said, “I wish I could give you the lyrics, but I can say that it’s a cross-over that we’re introducing to try on the country music shoe.” I figure I know what he means, but it sounds like corporate metaphor talk to me.

Two Pot added, “We think it has a good chance cause it’s the first true country rap since Jimmy Dean’s Big Bad John.”

Morton Trubletoof is the best animal guide and tracker in the county. He says, “My dream is to get a certification in gopher removal and relocation.”

Contact Clet Litter at bobsimpson1947@yahoo.com.

You know you wanna.

10 Outdoors

September 29, 2021

News Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL

CROSSBOW BASICS

By Steven E. Stillwell SCHOOL’S IN SESSION. Last week, I had a conversation with a gentleman at one of our local feed stores, and he had a couple of questions about a crossbow he recently purchased. The things we talked about compelled me to write this article, because hunting entails more than just grabbing a weapon, heading to the woods, and trying to kill something. If you’re going to become proficient, this involves developing a skill level that’s actually technical.

Mr. Brown knew this, and that’s why I enjoyed talking to him. He was a seasoned deer hunter undertaking another adventure, and I respected him for this.

In my humble opinion, Arkansas has three of the best deer hunting seasons in the United States, with lots of opportunities, but you’ll have to master three methods if you plan on spending more time in the field. Those of us who do this consistently harvest more game.

If you’re going to bow hunt in the Diamond State, you can legally pursue whitetails with a long-bow, recurve, compound, or crossbow, but we’re going to focus our attention on crossbows.

Some of the information I’ll share is also transferable to every type of bow imaginable, because ALL OF THEM have common characteristics such as limbs, strings and launching platforms for arrows or bolts.

DOES A CROSSBOW GIVE A

HUNTER AN UNFAIR ADVANTAGE? Before someone accuses all of the crossbow hunters of being cheaters, LET ME EMPHASIZE SOMETHING; in spite of modern, technological advances, all crossbows are considered to be primitive weapons. Miscalculate the range of your target, or try to reload for a second shot, and you’ll find-out in a hurry how archaic these medieval inventions are!

These are a few of the fundamental pointers I’d like to share that will ensure the longevity, and reliable operation of your crossbow. The most vulnerable part of this entire set-up is the string, and if it breaks while you’re in the field, YOU’RE SCREWED. In a short amount of time, a bowstring will become brittle if it isn’t waxed, so include a tube of bowstring wax in your archery kit, and apply this to your string frequently. If you’re a serious hunter, do like I did, and build a tackle box to store and organize your all of your maintenance gear. It’s hard to find a pro-shop when you’re miles away from civilization, so learn how to work on your own stuff.

Don’t let simple malfunctions spoil those special hunting trips.

DON’T START A FRICTION FIRE. If you neglect to lubricate the rail on your crossbow, this will decrease the string’s life, because it makes direct contact with the top while it glides over the surface. This area has to be slick, but not excessively. A dry string will smoke when it’s released, and you’ll smell the char. WAX AND LUBE ARE THE BEST INSURANCE POLICIES AN OWNER CAN BUY. If your crossbow is a compound model, apply an occasional squirt of WD-40 on the

wheels if they start sounding squeaky.

NOISY MECHANISMS WILL CAUSE EXCESSIVE WEAR, AND THEY’LL ALERT GAME TO YOUR PRESENCE. Routine maintenance is essential, if you want your investment to last for multiple seasons.

WHAT’S WRONG? MY CROSSBOW WON’T COCK? All of the modern crossbows I’ve inspected have a safety engagement system that will lock the trigger when you cock the device.

Some of the older models might deviate from this precautionary feature, so be advised. If you’re trying to cock your bow, and the string won’t engage, the safety is probably on; so switch it in the opposite direction and this should solve your problem.

CROSSBOW ARROWS ARE CALLED BOLTS. The fletchings are the spiraled feathers, or plastic vanes situated in front of the nocks, where the string engages the projectile. These help

stabilize the small bolts while they’re in flight, and they aid in accuracy. When you load one of these into your crossbow, make sure that it’s making firm contact with string. If there’s any slack, or the slightest gap between these two contact points, your speed and accuracy will be greatly diminished, and this will put a lot of undue stress on your device, eventually causing severe damage.

WARNING: NEVER DRY-FIRE A CROSSBOW. If you release the string on an empty rail, the excessive shock will damage your bow. Even though a bolt is a lightweight projectile, it’s still heavy enough to cause enough drag to prevent damaging your weapon.

We invite you to listen to our podcast program, THE OUACHITA BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL SHOW. You can also join us on Facebook if you enjoy social media. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

PulseNews THE POLK COUNTY

September 29, 2021

Homecoming 11

Mena Homecoming 2021

12 Homecoming

September 29, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Special Section cover and above: A pep rally held Friday gets crowds ready for the game.

(At left) Homecoming Parade winners are: 1st Place - Junior High Volleyball; 2nd Place - 7th Grade Ladycats; 3rd Place - Mena Youth Cheerleaders.

The Bearcats scored on the first play of the game and never looked back enroute to a 47-14 homecoming win.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

September 29, 2021

Cassidy Ashcraft was crowned the 2021 Mena High School Homecoming Queen and Annika Thompson was the Maid of Honor.

CONGRATULATIONS

MENA HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING COURT

JOIN A TEAM THAT GETS THINGS MOVING! NIDEC Motor Corporation 500 N Morrow St • Mena AR

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WITH BENEFITS

Homecoming 13

14 Homecoming

September 29, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

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THE POLK COUNTY

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September 29, 2021

Senior Maids

Homecoming 15

Cassidy Ashcraft

Annika Thompson

Rachel Wilson

Taylor Thacker

Sarah Grenier

Bethany Godwin

16 Homecoming

Freshman Maids Reese Montgomery Isabel Vacca

Sophomore Maids Brooklyn Hilderbrand-Marzett Sophia Vacca

Junior Maids Emmi Hines Kate McDonald

September 29, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

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THE POLK COUNTY

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September 29, 2021

Homecoming 17

CONGRATULATIONS MENA HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING COURT

GO BEARCATS!

18 Homecoming

September 29, 2021

THE POLK COUNTY

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THE POLK COUNTY

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September 29, 2021

Community 19

DAR Celebrates Betsy Ross Flag and U.S. Constitution

Submitted by Cortez Copher, Photos by Kay Dye

The September meeting of the James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR was held in the spirit of celebrating the Betsy Ross Flag and the writing of the U. S. Constitution. While impersonating Betsy Ross, DAR member Ruth Gray, gave an interesting account of the life of Betsy Ross during the American Revolution. At the age of 17, Elizabeth "Betsy" Griscom's family was forced to house British soldiers.

The British called her "The Little Rebel" because of her strongly patriotic views. She attended Quaker public school in Philadelphia where she learned sewing skills which she later used to make award winning quilts and other needlework with complicated designs. After marrying John Ross in 1773, she became a member of Christ Church where she met George and Martha Washington. John and Betsy started their own upholstery business in 1774 on Arch Street in Philadelphia in what is now known as the "Betsy Ross House." After her husband died from a gunpowder accident, she joined the free "Fighting Quakers" who wanted to support the war effort. According to the legend of the Betsy Ross Flag, late in May of 1776, three members of a secret flag committee from the Continental Congress came to call upon her. Those representatives, George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross, asked her to sew the first flag.

George Washington who was then the head of the Continental Army, showed her a rough design of the first United States flag that included a six-pointed star. She suggested five-pointed stars instead. When the committee protested that these would be too difficult to make, she took a piece of paper, folded it deftly, and with a single snip of her scissors, produced a symmetrical five-pointed star. They were so impressed with her seamstress magic that they readily agreed to her suggestion. The Continental Congress eventually chose Betsy's design for the first flag and

Ruth Gray as Betsy Ross with members of James K. Polk Chapter NSDAR (center front), Front Row: Kathy Hagler Linda Fryar, Celestra Elliott, Wendy Syfrett, Shelly Collins, and Linda Craig.

Back Row: Ann Garrett, Carolyn Hanna, Cortez Copher, Deonna Williams, Ruby Hartsfield, Julie Wiltrout, and Era Looney. (Not shown, Cheryl Anglin) she embarked on a flag making business for the government for the next 50 years.

Chaplain, Linda Evans, swore in Shelly Collins as the new James K. Polk Historian. Reports were given on group community volunteer projects of Constitution Week/Month September 17-30, "Back The Blue" National Day of Service for October 11, float for Veterans Day Parade November 6, and Veterans Giftsfor December. Presentations given were: the National Defender message covering Gold Star Mothers

by Kathy Hagler, the American Indian Minute about World War I and World War II Native American In-

dians by Carolyn Hanna, and NSDAR President General's message on membership by Cortez Copher.

The next James K. Polk DAR meeting will be October 21 in the First Baptist Church at 1:30 p.m. The program will be given by Ty Richardson on "Historic Preservation in Santa Fe." All ladies interested in the James K. Polk Daughters of the American Revolution are invited to attend. For more information, you may reach Registrar, Dotty Kinnun at (thekinnuns@gmail.com) or Recording Secretary, Brenda Cunningham at (dar4brenda@ gmail.com) (1-479-243-3244).

20 True Tales

THE POLK COUNTY

September 29, 2021

True Tales from the Old West

UNITED STATES DEPUTY MARSHAL: Calvin Whitson

By Ray Shelly

Years ago, I read Charles Portis's book "True Grit."

Also, I viewed the movie “True Grit,” starring John Wayne as Deputy Marshal Rooster Cogburn, Kim Darby as Mattie Ross, and Glen Campbell as 'La Boeuf.' I enjoyed both the book and the movie. My interest involved United States Deputy Marshals who helped rid the Indian Territory, one of the roughest territories in the United States, of the criminal element.

After reading “True Grit,” I started wondering how Portis developed his main character, Rooster.

Volunteering on the weekends at the Fort Smith Historic Site allowed me to research their archives.

From my house to the Historic Site was about 180 miles roundtrip. Before leaving, I would head to Moran's Foodland and purchase soft drinks and snacks.

The Morans were friendly folks who always greeted me with a warm hello and a smile.

After a while, I put Portis’s characters on the back burner as I researched stories of deputies who worked for the marshals from 1875-1896, Judge Isaac C. Parker's tenure.

Unbeknownst to me, until after Moran's Foodland was closed and the Morans had passed, I found out Mrs. Moran was the granddaughter of U.S. Deputy Marshal Calvin Whitson, one of the deputies used to mold Rooster Cogburn. I contacted Mrs. Moran's son, Kelsey Moran, and we became friends. I told him my plan to write about his great-grandfather. He liked the idea and supplied me with a family scrapbook on Cal. Among the papers in the scrapbook was a letter written by the Superintendent of the Historic Site, Bill Black, asking Portis how he came up with Rooster's character. Portis replied, "Rooster Cogburn wasn't based on a specific person. To me, he was just a representative figure of those hardy deputy marshals who worked for Judge Parker’s court."

Out of all the deputies Portis researched, Cal Whitson comes the closest to being Rooster.

For example, Cal is the only one-eye deputy in Fort Smith (wounded in the Civil War, he lost the use of his left eye). Also, the death of his son seems similar to the incident in “True Grit” that got Mattie Ross to

seek out Cogburn. Plus, an interesting note is a National Archives employee named Daggett recorded Whitson's military service record. You “True Grit” movie fans remember Mattie Ross's illustrious "Lawyer Daggett from Yell County." Given this circumstantial evidence, Cal Whitson would be a safe bet for Rooster in my book.

Calvin Whitson owned a grocery store in Fort Smith and spent a year as a deputy marshal. So, the grocery business was nothing new to Mrs. Moran.

NETTIE 'MAE' MORAN Cal and his fourth wife, Lucy Belle, had two children together; Vannie V. Whitson, born June 1886, and Bennie ( Benjamin) Whitson, sometime in 1889.

Family information states that Lucy died in 1917 of burns sustained when her starched apron caught fire.

As she liked to be referred to, Mae was the daughter of Ben Whitson, Cal's son. She was born in 1920 and grew up in Fort Smith. When Mae was in her late teens, she met the love of her life at church, Ancil Moran. They were married in 1939. Ancil worked at the local grocery store. In 1940, the couple had a daughter they named Donna. In 1944, their son Fletcher was born. Ten years later, 1954, a boy Kelsey rounded out the Moran family.

Ancil had a family that lived in Cherry Hill, so in 1955 the couple decided to move the family to Mena, Ark. Ancil took a job as a meat cutter for Shorty Williams, the owner of Piggly Wiggly market (currently James Grocery). In 1969 the Morans purchased Plunket Grocery, changed the name to Market Basket (now a mini-mall corner of Sherwood and Mena St.) In 1979, the Morans opened Moran Foodland, the corner of Hwy. 71 South and South Reine. The store closed in 1995. The store sits idle today, but it harbors loads of memories for the folks in Polk County.

Mrs. Moran passed away in 2013. I wish I had known Mrs. Moran was the granddaughter of Cal when I made my purchases. Mae was only six-yearsold when Cal died in 1926. I doubt if she would have remembered him.

Fortunately, I became friends with Kelsy. He shared the family scrapbook on Cal. I thank him and his cousins, who contributed to preserving the information on their grandfather.

I introduced Kelsy and his wife Janet to the Lawbreakers and Peacemakers, a reenactment group from Fort Smith. Janet made all the period-clothing they wore when reenacting the days of the U.S. Marshal

Pulse

Service. When Kelsey gets dressed in his outfit, it's uncanny how much he resembles his great-grandfather, Cal Whitson.

Cal Whitson led an interesting life.

He was born in either Plumerville, Ark, or Tennessee, in 1845. Little is known of his parents, but it’s believed they were most likely farmers.

In 1863 Cal was 17; he lied about his age and joined the Union Army. Cal probably lived in Plumerville when he enlisted. Records indicate his enlistment occurred in Lewisburg, Ark., south of Morrilton and west of Plumerville.

At one of the more than a dozen skirmishes and battles his regiment participated in, he lost the use of his left eye and caused Cal to wear his hat down over the eye, as shown in photos of him. Due to his injury, the U.S. Army medically discharged him in 1864.

Cal married four times and had five children. His fourth marriage was to Lucy Belle Price, and together they had two children, Vannie, born in 1886, and Benjamin, born sometime in 1889. Ben was the father of Nettie Mae Moran. (Mrs. Moran of Moran Foodland in Mena) According to family information, Cal was believed to have been a farmer before moving to Fort Smith, then became a merchant and storekeeper.

Before becoming a full-time deputy, Calvin may have been a posse member for the federal court in western Arkansas. Also, there is some indication that he may have worked as a lawman in Greyson County, Texas, after the Civil War, but no proof exists.

The role of the posse is not as exciting as the western movie interprets. Usually, the posse is responsible for taking care of the camp, watching prisoners, and assisting the marshal whenever necessary.

In June of 1888, Marshal John Phillips requested Cal to serve on a posse. But, being bedridden with pneumonia, he was unable to oblige. His 19-year-old son, Billy, volunteered to take his dad’s place over the objections of his stepmother, Lucy Belle. In hindsight, Cal should have listened to Lucy. Billy was murdered in Muskogee, Indian Territory.

According to a New York Times article dated July 3, 1888, Marshal Phillips and Billy Whitson attempted to serve felony warrants on the Barnett brothers, Watie and Wesley. Phillips received information that the brothers would be attending the Green-Corn Dance in Muskogee. Phillips and Whitson stayed in

See TRUE TALES page 21

THE POLK COUNTY

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Horoscope 21

September 29, 2021

YOUR MONTHLY HOROSCOPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE AND INTUITIVE HEALING

479-437-4057

by Desirée Eldon Doré For more ways to celebrate autumn and your personal reading, check out our Facebook page @AwkwardAwakenings

TRUE TALES continued from 20

the shadows waiting for the brothers. The Barnett’s made their appearance around 11 p.m. The lawmen stepped out of the shadows and commanded the Barnett’s to surrender. By way of reply, the two brothers immediately drew their pistols and commenced firing. Marshal Phillips was shot in the head; he died instantly. Riddled with bullets, Billy continued firing, fatally wounding Waite, and then fell to the ground dead.

It’s believed that Billy’s death motivated Cal to become a U.S. Deputy Marshal.

Approximately a year after Billy’s death, he became a deputy for Marshal Yoes and was administered his oath of office by Judge Parker.

It appears after spending a year as a deputy; Cal decided to leave and opened a grocery store near where the Phoenix mall is located today in Fort Smith.

There were a couple of interesting articles in the Fort Smith Elevator about Cal. One dated June 5, 1890, stated,(Last Monday Dr. G. W. Smith removed the left eye of Mr. C. Whitson, of this city. While in the service of the United States, Mr. Whitson received a gun-shot wound which destroyed his left eye. Mr. Whitson is doing well and is recovering from the effects of the operation.)

The second article in the Fort Smith Elevator, Nov 3, 1893, stated, Cal was shot in the neck and badly wounded. Webb, a constable, did the shooting. The origin of the trouble was a trunk attached by Webb while in the house of Whitson. In taking possession of the trunk, it was alleged that Webb used harsh language to Mrs. Whitson, and out of this grew bitterness between Cal and Webb. The dispute went to court, and Cal was awarded the trunk. As he was leaving the courthouse, Constable Webb came up and shot Cal in the neck. Albert Price, who interfered, also received two shots from Webb, neither doing much harm. The article also states Whitson was supposed to be mortally wounded at first but is said to be recovering. (I condensed and paraphrased the article.)

Calvin Whitson died in February 1926, at the age of 80-years-old. At the time of his death, he was survived by two sons and two daughters living in the Fort Smith area. He had eighteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Two points about this story. One, Cal did lead an interesting life. Secondly, it’s rather neat to know Mrs. Nettie Mae Moran’s (of Mena) grandfather helped bring law and order to Indian Territory and western Arkansas.

Leaves Are Falling, Autumn Is Calling. Celebrate with meals shared with loved ones and by giving gratitude for all our many blessings.

Happy Birthday Libra. It’s time to trust and let the blessings roll in. This is your time to align yourself with the universe. Know that you are perfectly protected, provided for, and loved.

Scorpio Do you smell betrayal? Deception is in the air and your scorpion sense is tingling. Trust yourself and set clear boundaries. If Fall teaches us anything, it is the beauty of letting go.

Sagittarius Temperance brings you balance and patience this fall season.

Take time for yourself. Bake a pie, take a soothing bath, or just a walk outside.

Relax.

Capricorn An upside-down emperor has less control than he would like. Domination is your strong suit but right now your excessive need for control is making you lose the battle.

Loosen the reins. Realize you’re only truly in control when you let go.

Aquarius You’ve invested your energy wisely and now it’s time to reap the rewards of your harvest. You know the value of sustainable results and it shows. You’re here! You did it!

Pisces You’re filled to the brim with new ideas. You can’t help but let your curiosity run wild. This is your season to daydream and get a clear vision for your next chapter. Remember Pisces dreamer, your only limitations are your own.

Aries Finding your freedom might mean challenging authority. Listen to your inner guidance and make the moves you need to. You’re only as free as you allow yourself to be.

Taurus Secrets and silence make for bad bedfellows. Decide which will be more painful: keeping the secret or speaking your truth. When silence holds a secret it can be deafening.

Gemini Justice has been served and now it’s time to move on! You’ve fought a good fight and now rest knowing you did everything you could. Feel proud.

Your efforts have made a difference.

Cancer Forgiveness is letting go and allowing yourself to move on. Living in the past robs your future. Some people/ things/experiences are like leaves, they’re only here for the season.

Leo Sudden change & chaos seems to be surrounding you. These are only bad things if you allow them to be.

You’re the master, now muster your mane and move forward like only you can.

Virgo Enjoy the Pause. Autumn brings us cooler temperatures and more time at home. Take time to enjoy your hobbies or find a new one. Dive deep into yourself and embrace these moments of ease.

Happy Abundant Harvest to you and yours. A simmer pot is a great way to get into the season while bringing good luck and fortune. You’ll need sliced apples & oranges, cinnamon sticks, mulling spices and a pot with boiling water. Put the fruit and spices in the boiling water and let the scent of the season carry you away. Simmer for up to 4 hours. Add more water as needed. “I give humble gratitude for my many blessings. I’m reaping the most bountiful harvest and looking forward to a winter full of warmth and joyous harmony. I am abundant in all things.

Prosperity is mine. I am Worthy”

22 Police Reports

September 29, 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 September 20, 2021 Deputies responded to a report of a Domestic Disturbance on Polk 24 near Cove.

After observing a vehicle in the driveway of a church near Cove, deputies arrested Karson Crawford, 28 of Mena on a Felony Warrant for Probation Violation.

September 21, 2021 Deputies responded to a walk-in complaint of Harassing Text Messages.

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

Deputies responded to a report of Theft of Rented Property.

Deputies responded to a Gas Drive Off at a business near Hatfield.

Deputies responded to a report of a Dog Bite Victim.

September 22, 2021 Daniel Green, 44, of Mountainburg was arrested on a Misdemeanor Failure to Appear Warrant, a Felony Failure to Appear Warrant and a charge of Contempt of Court.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant of being threatened. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies responded to a complaint of Harassment.

September 23, 2021 A traffic stop on Hwy 71 S near Potter led to Dexter Barton, 25 being issued a citation for Careless Prohibited Driving and Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complaint of Harassment.

MENA POLICE REPORTS September 19 A report of assault was taken from a walk-in complainant.

A report of a dog running at large was taken on Polk Street.

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

Deputies were dispatched to a Physical Domestic at an address on Polk 703 near Shady Grove. This led to the arrest of John Starr, 29 of Mena on charges of 3rd Degree Domestic Battery, 1st Degree Criminal Mischief, Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest.

Aaron Ollar, 33 of Mena was arrested September 20 A report of breaking or entering was on Three Failure to Comply Warrants, a taken at a residence on Hamilton.

Felony Failure to Appear Warrant and a A report of harassment and violation Parole Hold. of a protection order was taken at a residence on Evans Circle.

September 24, 2021 Charles Morgan, 44, was charged Cara Holliday, 34, of Mena was arwith Criminal Trespass, Possession of rested on a Felony Failure to Appear Instrument of Crime and Conspiracy Warrant. to Commit Breaking or Entering after Deputies responded to a report of a an investigation on Eagle Gap Avenue. window broken on heavy equipment A death investigation report was takon Polk 74 near Acorn. en at a residence on Jolie Way. Deputies responded to a report of A report of harassing communicaan ATV accident on Polk 67 near Big tion was taken from a walk-in comFork. plainant.

Wade Stewart, 46, of Mena was arA report of breaking or entering was rested on a Felony Warrant for Posses- taken from Men-Ark Apartments. sion of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Pos- September 21 session of a Schedule I or II Controlled No reports Substance.

September 22 September 25, 2021 Matthew Miller, 39, was charged A traffic stop on Hwy 8 West led with Theft, Terroristic Threatening, to the arrest of Brandon Powell, 36 of Disorderly Conduct, and Obstructing Mena on charges of Driving on a Sus- Government Operations after a disturpended Driver’s License and DWI. bance call to Budget Inn. David Hale, 33, was served with September 26, 2021 eight warrants after a disturbance call While on patrol, deputies observed to a residence on Reine Street. a juvenile walking on Hwy 8 E near Board Camp. The juvenile was taken September 23 back to her residence.

A report of a disturbance was taken Deputies were dispatched for a wel- at James’ Super Save Foods.

A report of fraud was taken from a fare check on Polk 87 near Ink. walk-in complainant.

Dax Wood, 25, was served with four Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked warrants after a disturbance call to 0 vehicle accidents this week.

Northside Laundromat.

Polk County Detention Center Jail September 24 Population: 14 Incarcerated Inmates, A theft report was taken at a resiwith 7 Inmates currently on the Waitdence on Cherry Street. ing List for a State Facility.

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Ouachita County Officer Involved Shooting Under State Police Investigation A Ouachita County man was shot and wounded by a local sheriff ’s deputy Sunday after the suspect in a domestic disturbance reportedly raised a shotgun he was holding and aimed it at the deputy. The Arkansas State Police has been requested to investigate the incident.

About 1:45 AM (Sunday, September 26th) two Ouachita County deputies were dispatched to a domestic disturbance at 3540 Arkansas Highway 376 south of Camden. The deputies began searching a wooded area near the residence for John Wesley Williams, 47, who had fled the home where he resided with two females.

During the search Williams allegedly fired the shotgun twice as the deputies moved closer. When Williams was located in thick underbrush, he was ordered by the deputies to drop the gun.

Williams reportedly ignored the command and pointed the gun at one of the deputies who fired his service weapon striking Williams.

Williams was transported by ambulance to a local hospital with a non-life threatening wound.

Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division are preparing an investigative case file which will be submitted to the Ouachita County prosecuting attorney who will decide whether the use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer was consistent with Arkansas laws.

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September 29, 2021

Classifieds 23

CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES YARD SALES

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T0929 Tree Removal and Trimming. Experienced and fully insured for ALL your tree-trimming needs. Call Wendell’s Tree Service (479) 394-0227 or (479) 216-4328 T1006

DR Bartering Service – Don’t have the money but need work done. Call us and see if we can trade it out for something you have. No job too big or small. Call 870-387-5042 T1117

- PETS -

Kittens - to a good home. Three have Siamese markings. Call 479-234-6773 T0929 Free to good indoor home: Cute “Benjy” dog, young male, friendly, playful., 20 pounds, black. (479) 394-3761or (479) 216-1464 T0929

- EMPLOYMENT -

Help Wanted: Dozer Operator Pond building experience a plus. Multiple equipment opportunities. Pay based upon experience. Call (479) 234-1357 T1013 Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for a part-time or full-time office position. Accounts payable, accounts receivable, bookkeeping, business letter typing/drafting, and computer experience (accounting/inventory software, email/internet, spreadsheets, etc) would be helpful. 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 with 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.

T0929

Yard Sale Friday - 508 Mountain View Drive, Mena, Saturday, Oct. 1 - 2, 8 a.m. dark, Furniture, power tools, women’s/men’s/ baby girl clothing, kitchen items, misc. T0929

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Dr. Bryan tells of the 1,000 doctors suing the World Health Organization. He tells you how to call any of these 1,000 doctors and they will get you treatment and will cost you nothing. https://www.bitchute.com/video/BKBpP5b1J21B

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24 Community

September 29, 2021

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FIRE PREVENTION WEEK As Fire Prevention Week™ approaches, the City of Mena Fire Department reminds residents to “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety™” The City of Mena Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years—to promote this year’s Fire Prevention WeekTM campaign, “Learn the Sounds of Fire SafetyTM.” This year’s campaign, October 3-9th, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

“What do the sounds mean? Is there a beep or a chirp coming out of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm? Knowing the difference can save you, your home, and your family,” said Lorraine Carli, vice-president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. The City of Mena Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2021 Fire Prevention Week theme.

“It’s important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise—a beeping sound or a chirping sound—you must take action!” said Mena's Fire Chief Steve Egger. “Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the manufacturer’s instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.”

“We are especially excited to report that with the generosity of our community sponsors with the National Fire Safety Council we have provided official fire safety manuals to Pre-K thru 4th grade in our community.”

Students of not only the Mena campus but also the Ouachita River School District at Acorn and Oden as well as the Cossatot River School District at Wicks, Vandervoort, and Umpire have received these fire safety education materials.

1,553 Official Fire safety Manuals were delivered

Photo by Ewanta Turner Front row from left: Andrew Vance, Chief Steve Egger, Mayor Seth Smith, Assistant Chief Charles Hankins, Keena Ashcraft.

Standing from left: Peter Gandy, Dustin Stover, Ben Vincent, Nat Ferry, Ray Surber, Captain Donnie Harvey, Mike Cross, Captain Eric Turner, James Turner, Captain Tom Hairston, Joe Quinn, Jason Head, Wes Kimp, Clint Sharp.

In truck: Fire Pup and Sam Cavelli.

Not pictured: Daniel Sanchez, Darrell Page, Emory Zakin. to area schools last week in advance of National years.

Fire Prevention Week.

Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its The City of Mena Fire Department life and the unit must be replaced.

wants to share safety tips to help you “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety”

A continuous set of three loud beeps—beep, beep, beep—means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.

Make sure your smoke and CO alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Mena, please contact A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the City of Mena Fire Department at 479-3941234 or visit our facebook page. For more generthe battery is low and must be changed. al information about Fire Prevention Week and All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 fire prevention in general, visit www.fpw.org.

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Education 25

September 29, 2021

Acorn FCCLA officers attended the District VI Fall Leadership Training at Hot Springs Junior Academy on Wednesday, September 22nd. Students from schools across District VI attended this training to gain insight on how to improve their leadership skills. Colten Quebedeaux (District VI VP of Public Relations & Acorn First Vice President) spoke to students on how to compete in FCCLA Star Events. Kenzie Daniels (State President & Acorn President) gave updates from the State office and assisted Colten with his table.

Welcome Emily Turner APRN to the team!

Accepting Patients May 3rd

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CHIQUITAʼS $5 FOOD SERVICE FOR $3

BAYWASH CAR WASH $10 CAR WASH FOR $5

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THE SHOP $45 UNLIMITED $ TANNING FOR $25

Call 394.7301 to make your appointment!

Seeing All Patients

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

AND A VARIETY OF BRANSON TICKETS

26 Education

September 29, 2021

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479-234-6207 AMANDA AND DAVID DIXON  OWNERS

♦ WOOD ♦ ACRYLIC ♦ GLASS ♦ LEATHER ♦ GRANITE ♦ PHOTO ENGRAVING ♦ AND MORE

Cossatot River High School has announced the homecoming court: Junior High Maids - front row from left, Rynlee Richardson, Liliana Gasca, Leslie Esquivel, Victoria Squires, Kaylee Ward, and Dani Atchley, (Jasmine Wilkinson not pictured); Senior High Maids - Back Row from left, Lyla Baker, Sherlyn Brito, Laura Flores, Caylynn Burke, Rendi Warren, Alyssa Wilson, Reagan Bills, BreAnna Hutson, Eden (Ziggie) Parks, and Emily Ugarte.

CRHS will crown the Homecoming Princess and Queen on Friday, October 8 as part of Black and Silver week. The community is invited to attend all of the events on Thursday, October 7 and Friday, October 8, which include black and silver exhibition basketball games, the annual senior chicken dinner, and crowning of the princess and queen. Activities both nights begin at 5:00 p.m., admission will be by donation of non-perishable food item or cash, which benefit our student backpack food program.

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September 29, 2021

Top left, Cody Bagley drives; Shanell Britl uses an excavator, and Noelia Gomez welds using simulation technology at Cossatot River High school last week.

Photos by Jeri Pearson

Students test out trade skills

The Be Pro Be Proud Mobile Workshop visited Cossatot River High School last week. The Arkansas State Chamber and its public and private partners launched Be Pro Be Proud in 2016 to address an expanding skills gap in professional trades across the state. Arkansas’s future will depend on changing the perception of these career options and efforts highlighting the many opportunities available within these sectors.

“Since launching Be Pro Be Proud in 2016, Arkansas has been leading the nation in supporting skilled trade and professions allowing us to better compete in the global marketplace,” said the Hon. Asa Hutchinson, Governor of Arkansas. “I encourage everyone to be a part of the Be Pro Be Proud movement. It shows that we are serious about educating parents and young people about these career paths that are essential to our state’s economic growth.”

The 12 in-demand professions that continue to be represented include truck driver; diesel tech; locomotive engineer; welder; machinist; computer numerical control (CNC) operator; tool and die maker; computer programmer; computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) drafter; heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) tech; plumber; electrician and carpenter.

For more information visit, please visit BeProBeProud.org or call 501-372-2222.

Alpha Kappa Chapter President Krystal Thrailkill is pleased announce the recipient of the Delta Kappa Gamma (DKG) Scholarship. Abigail “Abby” McIntyre, a graduate of Cossatot River High School and freshman music education major at Henderson State University, was awarded the $500 scholarship. DKG is a professional international honor society of key women educators. For more information, please visit the website at https://www. dkg.org.

Education 27

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September 29, 2021

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