The Polk County Pulse - November 29, 2023

Pulse THE POLK COUNTY

FREE WEEKLY 1168 Hwy 71 S Mena, AR 71953 479.243.9600

November 29, 2023

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Pink Party fundraiser at Mena Regional Health System

INSIDE:

Ouachita Quilt Show

Where To Find Santa

Article and photos by Ethan Nahté

Page 16

Page 2

Mena Regional Health System (MRHS) recently hosted Penny Wars and collected donations for Clarice’s Room of Hope. In celebration, they hosted a Pink Party with a silent auction on Nov. 14. Included was the chance to bid on throwing a pie in the face of new CEO Michael Wood. Proceeds from the event went to Clarice’s Room of Hope.

Wood’s own brother Daniel, controller at Nidec Motor Corp-Mena, not only splatted him in the face with a whipped cream pie, but took the pie up and over the top, ensuring that he smeared him quite good.

A second pie was for the new MRHS marketing director Amisha Mosley. Those who pied her did their best not to get it all in her hair, although they weren’t quite successful. Mosley did throw her hands out, slightly gasping for breath as she

By Ethan Nahté

Thanksgiving Feasts

Page 10

Teena Brown is presented a donation to Clarice’s Room of Hope from MRHS CEO Michael Wood.

tried not to inhale or snort whipped cream.

Next, MRHS administrators Paul Ervin, CFO; John Parsons, CNO; Michael Wood; and Brandyn Gortemiller, Human Resources; all took a seat to have their hair dyed with temporary dye for the cause. Jokes

flew rampant with the hairstyles, the dying of some eyebrows, the definition of “temporary,” and the fact that Wood was due at the Mena City Council meeting within the hour.

Meanwhile, Ervin took it in stride

Olivieri and her rising Starr

In part two of Dawn Olivieri’s story rescuing horses from the kill pens, she was last speaking about what appeared to be an increase in the number of foals being purchased by the

kill buyers. The numbers seemed to surpass anything rescuers had seen throughout their careers.

An area such as the Ouachita Mountains or west of Fort Worth, Texas, are communities where there’s plenty of livestock, but for

See CLARICE’S continued on page 7

many, they aren’t aware what kill pens are.

Olivieri explained, “I hear different things. I’ve done research but I didn’t get into this game because I knew all about it and I was like, See HORSES continued on page 5

2 News

By Ethan Nahté

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 29, 2023

Where to find Santa Claus in Polk County

Santa Claus, along with Mrs. Claus, the occasional elf, and even the Grinch, will be appearing throughout Polk County over the next few weeks.

Here are the Santa sighting and picture opportunities where you can get a photo and talk to Santa and Mrs. Claus: Friday, Dec. 1 - Mena Christmas Parade of Lights, 6

-

p.m.

Santa House after Parade of Lights, Janssen Park First United Methodist Church of Mena, bring your lawn chairs and watch the Christamas fireworks from their lawn at Janssen Park after the parade. There will be cookies, coffee, hot chocolate and caroling.

Saturday, Dec. 2 - Santa House, Janssen Park 8:30 am to noon. Toys for Tots drop off with CMA, 10 a.m.

- Vandervoort Community Building, 3-5 p.m., games, milk and cookies while supplies last, bring your own phone or camera for pictures with Santa.

Santa and Mrs. Claus with their entourage at the 2022 Toys for Tots event at Mena Elks Lodge, along with Ed Anderson of the Marine Corps League.

(Ethan Nahté/Pulse)

Saturday, Dec. 9 - Pictures and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus - Calvary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 2100 Hwy 375 W from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

- Cove Christmas Parade, followed by

a meet and greet at the Town Hall, 2 p.m.

- Pictures and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus - Shady Mount Events, Hwy. 375 E, 4-6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 16 - Toys for Tots, Elks Club, Hwy. 375 E, 8 a.m. to noon - Santa House, Janssen Park, 1-3 p.m.

- Toys for Tots, Q on Main (Suzy Q’s), 4-6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 21 - Union Bank Santa and the Grinch, 2-4 p.m.

Mena Regional Auxiliary Annual Christmas Breakfast

By Ethan Nahté

Time to lick your chops for the Mena Regional Auxiliary Annual Christmas Breakfast. The fundraiser breakfast is here once more with “celebrity servers” for either a dine-in meal at the Mena Regional Health System cafeteria, or a carry out box.

The menu includes Belgian waffles, biscuits, chocolate and white gravy, sausage links, bacon, scrambled eggs, yogurt bar, and coffee, all for a donation. If you are a MRHS employee, the donation can be deducted from your payroll if preferred.

The annual event is one of the group’s signature ways of fundraising for their annual scholarships, which has typically been $1,000 per scholarship granted to a student enrolled in a medical-related field.

The breakfast is in the hospital cafeteria from 7-10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 7.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Letters 3

November 29, 2023

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The night before Thanksgiving I had a terrible scare. I heard a loud swoosh. I looked up and a curtain in my doorway was literally on fire and spreading fast.

I grabbed the curtain, threw it to the floor then realized my arm was on fire and running up to my neck, then my hair caught fire.

I got the fire on me out but continued to put out the remaining fire with wet bath towels.

At that point I called 911.

The dispatcher told me to get out of the house. I told her I can’t because I have to put the fire out.

The flames were going up the wall, across the floor and jumped to my bed.

I grabbed the burning bedspread and electric blanket off and stamped them out.

The box springs was burning but I managed to get it out and saved the mattress.

At that point I could barely breathe from the smoke, so I went outside to breathe and wait for firemen.

Two Deputies, ambulance, Potter Volunteer Fireman then the fire truck arrived.

I stayed outside while they checked the area.

They used a giant fan to remove the smoke.

The ambulance driver looked at my burns and said I did not need hospital care.

The firemen came out and said I did a good job putting the fire out.

Want to share your opinion?

I was not clothed when the fire jumped on my body, if I had been I would have ignited and may not be here to tell this or in the hospital with very bad burns.

I do not recommend anyone doing what I done, but the good Lord and maybe some angels as well gave me the strength to fight the fire and not lose everything.

An oil-filled heater is what caused the fire. Four years ago one of my puppies chewed the chord in half. A guy I was dating took an extension cord and wired it to the original chord to make it longer because the original was so short.

After all these years the inevitable happened.

The fireman said the cord got too hot where it was spliced together and literally caught fire.

He said never splice a heater wire but instead throw the heater away if you can’t replace the whole cord.

For four years this could have happened while I was not home and my whole house would have perished.

Thanks to all the Fireman, EMT, Deputies and Dispatcher for your assistance.

Please check your heaters and dispose of any damaged ones.

Sherry Malone, Mena

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4 News

THE POLK COUNTY

November 29, 2023

From the

State House of Representatives

ruary in years in which the As 2024 is approaching primary elections are held we would like to take this in May. The Fiscal Sessions time to give Arkansans a begin in April in years, look at what is ahead for the General Assembly. like this year, in which primary elections are held in Pre-fiscal session budJohn Maddox March. get hearings will begin Amendment 86 states Wednesday, March 6, 2024. Over the course of the bud- that each Fiscal Session shall not get hearings, the committee will exceed 30 days.

The Fiscal Session may be exhear budget requests for all state boards, commissions, and agen- tended one time, however, for no cies. These hearings will continue more than 15 days, by a ¾ vote of both the House and Senate. through Friday, March 8, 2024.

If the General Assembly is to The pre-filing period for appropriation bills begins on March take up any bills outside the scope of the budget, they must first 11, 2024.

The General Assembly will have a 2/3 vote in both chambers convene for the 2024 Fiscal Ses- for a resolution describing the sion on April 10, 2024, at noon. bill. The deadline for those resoFiscal Sessions began after Ar- lutions is by the end of the first kansas voters approved what day of the session, April 10.

As always, we will post all would become Amendment 86 in 2008. This will be the 8th Fis- meeting times and locations on cal Session held in state history. our website, arkansashouse.org.

Fiscal Sessions are held in Feb-

Contact Your Legislators!

John Maddox

John Boozman

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

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

Terry Rice

Bruce Westerman

Terry.Rice@senate.ar.gov P.O. Box 2195 Waldron, AR 72958 479-637-3100

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

From the

State Senate

Pulse

When the jackpot apStudents at four-year instiproaches a billion dollars a tutions must maintain a 2.5 lot of people go out and buy grade point average to keep the lottery tickets, even though Academic Challenge scholarnormally they hardly pay any ships. They must complete 27 attention to the lottery. semester hours their first year Those occasions are good and 30 semester hours in folnews for Arkansas college stulowing years.

Terry Rice dents, because the state will Their freshman year they recollect more money than usual for lot- ceive $1,000. In their sophomore and tery scholarships. junior years they get $4,000 and their For example, ticket sales in Septem- senior year they get $5,000. If a student ber were higher than average for the doesn’t need 15 hours to graduate in Arkansas Office of the Lottery. Rev- his or her senior year, the scholarship enue for the month was $47 million, amount is prorated according to the compared to $43 million in September number of hours taken. of 2022.

Students at two-year colleges receive Lottery officials attribute the spike $1,000 their first year and $3,000 their in sales to a Powerball jackpot of about second year. They can get $1,500 for a a billion dollars. It generated interest fifth or final semester. among people who don’t routinely The approved institutions are private purchase lottery tickets. and publicly supported schools in ArSince Arkansas voters approved the kansas. lottery in a statewide election in 2008, Earlier this year the legislature creatit has generated about $1.3 billion for ed the Challenge Plus Scholarship Proscholarships, and more than 720,000 gram. To qualify a student has to meet scholarships have been awarded. Stores the academic requirements of the Acathat sell tickets have earned $395 mil- demic Challenge Scholarship, and also lion in retailer commissions. demonstrate a financial need. Those Last year the lottery generated students can receive additional awards $114.7 million for scholarships. of $1,000 to $4,000 a year.

This year it will raise an estimated According to the web site of the $110.7 million, but that amount could Arkansas Lottery, the odds of wingrow if people are motivated to buy ning a Powerball jackpot are one in tickets because of enormous jackpots 292,201,338. in the Powerball and Mega Millions The web site also has hotlines to call lotteries. For the first three months of if you think you may have a gambling the current fiscal year, the lottery has addiction. Here are questions that generated $30.3 million for scholar- should raise a red flag: Have you gamships. bled for longer than you had planned?

The Academic Challenge Schol- Have you used your savings to gamble? arship is the single largest program Have you borrowed money to gamble? financed by sales of lottery tickets, If you have a gambling problem you although they also fund other small- can call 1-800-522-4700. er scholarship programs. The annual The constitutional amendment that deadline for applications for Academic created lottery scholarship program Challenge scholarships is July 1. was not placed on the ballot by the This year about 27,000 students are legislature but was initiated by citizens’ receiving the Academic Challenge groups. In the 2008 election it passed Scholarship, an increase from 26,000 overwhelmingly by a vote of 648,122 who received it last year. in favor and 383,467 against.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

HORSES continued from page 1 ‘Okay, I’m ready to fight the fight.’ I just saw mommas and babies and I thought that’s not where they should be. My heart just sort of melted and I thought, ‘Well, I have some space and I have the energy. Let me just give it a shot. It turns out I also have the resources. I didn’t even realize I had all the resources that I had access to.

“As far as I know, at least the groups I have taken in, the first group — the Momma Baby Army — from what I know, was taken from a Navajo reservation. I think it’s Indiana where their Coggins [test] were done.”

A Coggins test is a blood test that is generally recommended to be given at least annually to identify whether a horse is a carrier of Equine Infectious Anemia, a viral disease in horses. A negative test is required to allow horses to travel between states and most equine facilities.

“It could be maybe someone trucked them in from somewhere else,” she said. “It’s hard with these things. They sort of lose their origins. It does seem I got word there was a guy who hauled all of these horses from Nebraska down to Texas. What’s funny enough, he actually stopped in Mena and they spent the night, and he drove them the rest of the way to Texas. I think is really funny… really interesting.

“So, this group of the Momma Baby Army are Navajo ponies, and they are coming off the reservation there.

“The second group I brought in — the foals, all babies — they are coming from what I hear is a Wind River [Reservation] round up. These are

November 29, 2023

News 5

like BLM mustangs, but they are cused on the political side of things. sent the money for 10 more foals to coming off an Indian reservation, as It’s really just how do I help; how do be rescued. I used that, then I got I heal? That’s the story. That’s the the transport organized. I jumped opposed to BLM land.” on another lady’s transport, then they eventually made their way to Arkansas.

Dawn Olivieri records video as Dr. Cameron Stoudt and her team attend to a rescued horse. (Photo by Deborah Michelle)

According to an Oct. 18 article on Wyoming Public Radio’s website, funding from Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and other federal sources have rounded up more than 6,500 feral horses on the reservation so far this year. Feral horse is a term that refers to wild horses on lands other than those managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service.

“They don’t have the tattoos because they’re not done by the government. It is a government grant that’s given to the Indian reservations to do the round ups. That’s as much as I know. I’m gonna learn more as we go. My first order of business is to bring them back to health and then adopt them out to families. I haven’t so much been fo-

background, at least that I know.”

The actor finds herself in what appears to be an overflow of horses being bought up by kill buyers, especially foals.

Olivieri said, “Some people have said because of COVID, it had stopped, like the buyers hadn’t sold the babies before. Maybe there were more, I don’t know. None of it makes sense to me. Whatever it is, there were an insane amount of foals present in these kill pens without their mommas.

“I went back into the kill pen funnels and I started pulling. I pulled two from Kaufman’s pen in Texas.

Then I got diverted to this big group of foals in Colorado.

“I actually worked with a rescue up in Canada, the Flying L Ranch.

His donors actually stepped in and

Strangles The thing about them was they were quarantining in Texas first and I didn’t have a place for them. So, I gotta figure out how and where am I gonna put them being that this is the first time I’ve ever rescued like this on this scale. Quarantine is a really important part of the rescue timeline. I’ve learned this because when any animal hits a kill pen, they are especially full, they get a thing called strangles, and strangles is a strep infection their immune system has to process and then remove.”

Strangles is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi. It is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection, often infecting lymph nodes around the jaw. The swelling can become severe, becoming so swollen that horses struggles to breathe properly, hence the name “strangles.” The prognosis for uncomplicated cases is generally good and result in full recovery. Complication happens in approximately 10% of cases with a mortality rate of up to 40%.

“Because they’re such little babies, they get hit really, really hard and they don’t have the immunity that the momma’s milk offers them,” Olivieri said. “They are just sort of left out to die in a way. I’ve learned this in a really intense way because even going to pick up that Colorado crew from Texas — there were some baSee HORSES continued on page 12

6 Obituaries

November 29, 2023

Gary Wayne Ham Gary Wayne Ham was born in Modesto, California, on May 23,1954, to Harold and Leona Ham. He passed away peacefully with family by his side on November 24, 2023, in Little Rock, AR, at the age of 69.

Gary proudly served his Country in the United States Air Force. He was self-employed as a Master Electrician for many years in Richardson,Texas.

Gary was preceded in death by his father Harold Ham. Gary is survived by his daughter Marissa Torres (Alecks) and his son Rylan Ham (Jennifer). His grandchildren Sofia Torres and Packton Ham. His Mother Leona Ham. Brothers, Alan Ham (Julie), Kevin Ham (Dana), Gene Ham (Taletha) and Todd Ham. Sisters, Alliesa Stark (Tim), Marsha Allison (Johnny) and Debra Robbins (Clayton).

Several Nephews, Nieces, Family and Friends. Gary will be greatly missed.

health nurse by profession, she loved reading and listening to music. But above all else her favorite thing to do was to spend time with her grandson. Paula was an energetic and loud person by nature, described by many as “crazy in a good way.” She will be deeply missed by all who know her.

Ms. Drummond is preceded in death by her father, Larry Lee Drummond, and by her sister Levieta Faye Ehret.

She is survived by her son, Wesley Schuller; grandson, Dustin Schuller; mother, Betty Joe Murray; brothers, Clarence Houston, Randy Houston; brother-in-law, Bill Ehret; sisters, Rebecca Houston, Pauline Maturo; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other family, and friends too numerous to mention.

Services for Ms. Drummond will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 1, 2023, at the Beasley-Wood Chapel, in Mena, Arkansas. Interment will follow at the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas.

There will be no visitation.

Online obituary at beasleywoodfuneralhome.com

Love and death Paula are the two Kay Drummond great hinges on Ms. Paula Kay Drummond, age 53, passed which all human away Saturday, November 25, sympathies turn.

2023, in Mena, Arkansas. She was born September 7, 1970, in Griffin, Georgia, to Larry Lee Drummond and Betty Jo Murray.

Ms. Drummond was a home

~ B.R. Hayden, poet

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

OLT offers two holiday shows beginning Dec. 8 Submitted by Julie Ulmer Ouachita Little Theatre is offering not one, but two Christmas-themed shows this holiday season.

Showcasing first is the Lyric Players Readers Theatre production of “The Gift of the Magi.”

OLT is experimenting with a different format for this show. Two performances will be held at The Ouachitas, 821 Mena St., on Dec. 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. The Ouachitas will be serving their delicious menu items and patrons are encouraged to enjoy this dinner theatre experience.

If you prefer a more traditional venue, you can choose to purchase tickets for the Dec. 10 show at 2:30 p.m., which will be at the Ouachita Little Theatre, 610 Mena St. This matinee will also include a Christmas Carol singa-long led by Judy Kropp.

Advance tickets for all three performances are on sale now for $10 for all ages at oltmena.com.

The second seasonal offering is the OLT Christmas courtroom

comedy set in 1844, “The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge.” Shows will run consecutively from Thursday, Dec. 14 through Monday, Dec. 18. All shows will be at the OLT in the evening at 7:30 p.m. except the Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m.

“The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge” takes a different look at the character of Scrooge as he decides to sue the spirits of Christmas’ past, present and future for their roles in the disruption that occurred in his life exactly one year before the trial. The results are as humorous as they are heartwarming. The whole family will enjoy this production, never before seen on the OLT stage.

Tickets for this special holiday show are $10 for students and for seniors aged 60 and above, and $15 for adults.

Make plans now to enjoy the upcoming festive time of year by seeing a live performance for yourself or your whole family. Advance reserved seating is available at oltmena.com.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

CLARICE’S continued from page 1 and had people bring him slices of Simple Simon’s Pizza while he had his hair dyed. There was plenty of pizza, cake and punch for all.

After the pieing and dying, Wood stood beside Teena Brown, founder of Clarice’s. The CEO spoke to the crowd in the hospital cafeteria, mainly consisting of hospital staff and family members of those having their hair turned pink or purple. “Last month was Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We always do a penny war and pick a charity to donate the money to. This year we picked Clarice’s Room of Hope.

We raised more money than we’ve ever raised. I can’t think our staff enough for all of the fun you had, the competitions you had, the businesses that donated, Nidec for their last-minute donation,” he added, which garnered a few laughs, as his

News 7

November 29, 2023

(l-r) Paul Ervin, John Parsons, Michael Wood and Brandyn Gortemiller with their temporary dye jobs.

Daniel donated to make sure he got the pie and the dye.

The oversized presentation check was brought out, hiding the amount until Wood announced a grand total of $4,600.98.

Brown began by saying the money raised was, “over and beyond. I don’t know what else to say. We’ll put this to very good use. Our main goal is to make sure we have enough funds to supply all of the gas cards that are needed to get from here to there.

Some days some [patients] have to go every day.”

Getting a bit choked up, she said, “If it wasn’t for people like you, we wouldn’t survive in this community, beDaniel Wood plastering Michael with a whipped cream pie. cause it’s just hard.

Emergency Room RNs Elaine Crabtree (left) and Olivia Bayne (right) stick it to Amisha Mosley.

It’s a passion. I’m sure you all know, need so badly. Thank you all.” working in this type of work that Wood lightened the mood as he you do, you see it all the time. It’s held the presentation check, stating, pretty precious when you can help “You can’t deposit this one.” somebody do something that they

STAY ALERT. STAY INFORMED. STAY SAFE. Some severe weather events are predictable, others may happen with little or no warning.

Keep yourself and your family safe and healthy in any weather emergency by visiting the CDC Natural Disasters and Severe Weather information site.

www.cdc.gov/disasters/ Rich Mountain Electric Cooperative, Inc. Owned By Those We Serve

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

8 News

By Richie Lawry

Most people don’t like to take tests.

It makes them nervous. Some occupations such as nursing, law, civil service jobs, and many others, require passing a test before you can be licensed to work. Tests can create a lot of anxiety in people. Waiting to find out if you passed is very stressful.

Recently, a friend was stressed out while waiting for the day she would take the test required to be certified.

Without the certification, she could not work in the field she had studied.

Even though the worry about taking the test almost made her ill, when the day came, she passed it.

I remember taking my driving test.

I was driving a 1962 Chrysler. For the turn signals to work, you had to hold the turn signal lever in position because it wouldn’t stay if you didn’t.

When I had to turn corners during the test, I held the turn signal lever in position with one hand while I steered with the other. When the test was over, the driving examiner took off points because I didn’t keep both hands on the wheel when I turned a corner. He didn’t notice that I was holding the turn signal lever in position with the other hand. I was afraid I wouldn’t pass the exam, but after a lecture on the importance of keeping both hands on the wheel, he gave me a passing grade.

When I was in high school, I had a teacher who told us that if we had an A in the class, we wouldn’t have to take the final exam. I wouldn’t say I liked taking finals, so I worked hard to get an A. On the Monday of finals week, the teacher posted the grades. I looked at the bulletin board and saw that I had an A-. I was relieved. I wouldn’t have to take the final exam. Then the teacher told me I would have to take the final exam because only those with an A were exempt and I had an A-. I argued that an A- was still an A but it didn’t do me

THE POLK COUNTY

November 29, 2023

An Arkie’s Faith Passing the test

Do you worry about your score on a final exam?

any good. I still had to take the final exam. I was not happy.

Many Christians go through life like they are in school. They are always worried about their grades. They are concerned about making a passing grade. They spend their lives in anxiety about the outcome. They believe they cannot know if they are saved or lost! Many don’t have that assurance of salvation.

The Bible has a lot to say on this topic. You can have the assurance of salvation. Jesus Himself gives assurance to those who believe in Him. In John 10:27,28 (NRSV) Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.”

While speaking to a group of people on the topic of assurance, I asked, “How many here are married? If you are, raise your hand.” Most of the hands in the audience went up. Then I asked a follow-up question, “How

(Photo by Karl Baron)

many of you don’t know if you’re married?” Not a single hand went up.

Then I asked, “How do you know you are married?”

Just about everyone knows if they are married or not. A rare issue in the legal system might make someone unsure of their marital status, but most people know whether they are married.

We can be sure of our marital status, but can we know if we are saved? Indeed, we can know. In Philippians 4:7 (VOICE) Paul tells us that we can “know that the peace of God (a peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding) will stand watch over your hearts and minds in Jesus.”

If we wonder every moment of every day what our score is on our final exam, we do not have peace.

But God has promised his children peace. When Jesus was about to leave this earth, he told His disciples, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I

Joke of the Week:

I once worked at a pizza parlor to help make ends meet.

I kneaded the dough.

Pulse

give is a gift the world cannot give.

So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27 (NLT) We can be sure of our marital status, but can we be sure what our marital status will be 10 years from now? Now that’s a different question.

In 2 Peter 1:10 (NLT), the Apostle Peter wrote, “Dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away.”

We can know that we are saved today, but only God knows the future.

Only He knows whether we will fall away. But we can know in our heart whether we are in a saved condition right now. We need to know that.

Works-oriented Christians know that they don’t measure up. They know that Romans 6:23 (NKJV) tells us, “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” They have a hard time believing that eternal life is a gift of God. They feel that they must score high on the final exam to achieve eternal life.

If we think perfect obedience is the test, we feel that God can’t save us every time we make a mistake. That doubt is intensified by the accusations made by Satan against us. Satan delights in making us doubt our salvation. On the other hand, we can delude ourselves by looking at our works with an overblown view of our own goodness, seeing righteousness in ourselves when there is none.

Gentle Reader, Jesus wants you to be saved. 2 Peter 3:9 (NCV) says, “God is being patient with you. He does not want anyone to be lost, but he wants all people to change their hearts and lives.”

When you believe in Him and change your heart and life, Jesus wants you to know you are saved. In John 6:47 (NKJV), Jesus says, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.”

Replacing windshields in Polk County for over 40 years.

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

November 29, 2023 News 9 Pulse Revolutionary War patriot to be honored in Murfreesboro THE POLK COUNTY

Three other patriots recently honored in Crawford County

Submitted by Pat and Charles McLemore

part in the ceremonies. Members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)will also be in atThe DeSoto Trace Chapter of the tendance.

Arkansas Society of the Sons of the Period attire will be worn by SAR American Revolution (SAR) will and DAR members. The public is honor Captain William Jenkins as invited to see this colorful and diga patriot of the American Revo- nified tribute to America’s first vetlution at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. erans.

2. The ceremony will take place at the Murfreesboro Cemetery, Pike Three Revolutionary War patriots County, Murfreesboro, Arkansas. recently honored Capt. Jenkins was born Feb., 19, SAR marked three Revolutionary 1762, in Maryland and died in Mur- War patriots in Crawford County, freesboro, Pike County, Arkansas, Arkansas, on Nov. 4. SAR members on Oct. 14, 1842. He filed for his attending the ceremony were from pension on Aug. 3, 1832, in Jack- all five states of the South-Central son County, Alabama. Pension was District. granted #S31774.

DAR from several chapters in The ceremony will include a black Arkansas, and two members from powder musket salute and a bag Kansas and Oklahoma, also attendpiper. ed.

SAR members from the The first ceremony took place at South-Central District (Arkansas, the Fairview Cemetery in Van BuKansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and ren for James Phillips. His tombTexas) have been invited to take stone was placed by the Mary Fuller

Percival Chapter, DAR, in 1909.

The second ceremony was held at the Kimbler Cemetery in northern Crawford County for Isaiah Mobley and his brother Clement Mobley.

Each ceremony included a black powder musket salute and taps.

SAR and DAR honoring James Phillips at Fairview Cemetery in Van Buren, Arkansas (left and top), and brothers Isaiah and Clement Mobley in Kembler Cemetery in north Crawford County (right).

(Submitted photos)

10 Thanksgiving

g n i v i g s k n a Th

November 29, 2023

s t s a fe

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

Mena-Polk County Senior Center Veterans Dinner & Covenant of Life Family Church “Don’t Eat Home Alone”

Photos by Ethan Nahté

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

By Ariel Varner You may have heard me in the mornings as I host the morning radio show Swap Shop on KENA 104.1 FM at 8:06, Monday-Friday. I have recently been training a new morning radio host Matt Allen. Before Swap Shop begins, I read off the menu and activities of the day happening at area schools and the Mena-Polk County Senior Centers.

Patsy Austin from the Senior Center made a call to the Swap Shop

line Nov. 14, after hearing Matt and me talking about how fun it would be to play beanbag baseball with the

November 29, 2023

News 11

Beanbag baseball is a blast seniors. We both agreed to go that Friday to try our hands at beanbag baseball.

The Senior Center hosts several activities, including bridge tournaments every first and third Monday of the month, pool tournaments every first and third Tuesday, and beanbag baseball every Friday at 10 a.m.

While executive director Trena Looney was busy helping in the kitchen to serve a delicious lunch to the seniors at 11:45 a.m., Matt and I were assigned sides and learned the rules to beanbag baseball. The center competes with other Senior Centers around Arkansas but practices every Friday as a team. The Mena Senior Center team is called the Base Invaders, and they each have a team shirt with their name on the front of it.

A board with a horizontal rectangle marked “Foul Ball,” and nine round holes — two each marked “1st,” “2nd,” “3rd,” and “Out,” and a central opening for “Home Run” with a gold-colored bell in the center. The board stands at the end of a 10-foot walkway lined by seven seniors on each side. This sets the stage for beanbag baseball to begin.

Behind the play board are three chairs with handmade base covers labeled “1st,” “2nd,” and “3rd” base, “in Arkansas Razorback fabric, of course,” stated Brenda Hunt who handmade each chair cover.

David Smith, who created the playing board, the scoreboard and several beanbags for the game, stepped up to throw his first bag to score a home run! Every member of the team, including Matt, stood up, cheered and high-fived David as he walked around and touched each base while he made his way back to home plate for the

first point of the game.

Gloria Smith, David’s wife, stood up and said, “I smell a skunk,” to the team across the walkway while they all laughed and said, “There’s no way you’re gonna beat us that easily.”

The competitive spirit of the local seniors was absolutely contagious amongst everyone there, including your KENA duo. I stepped up for my first throw and hit a third base score, got excited and started running toward the bases, only to be reprimanded as Patsy yelled, “No running and no stealing bases.” Matt, who helps coach girls’ fastpitch softball, threw in the comment “No Stealing?”

On Eddie Huckabee’s turn, he threw over the play board and everyone yelled, “Hey.” He turned a circle, threw the next bag and hit a home

run and said, “The turn is the trick,” amongst a slew of cheers.

The joy, the laughter, the fun the seniors have together is something the Trena described as, “Being a big, fun-loving family.”

To join the big, fun-loving family, head to the Mena Senior Center, 401 Autumn Dr. between 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays. Call 479-394-5459 for more information.

12 News HORSES continued from page 5 er rescuer — they were so sick that the woman there that was running those lots, she’s like, ‘Can we load these five at least or six onto your trailer? You can at least try to save them because they will die. They’re about to die.’ I said, ‘Absolutely, put whoever you want on the trailer, and we’ll do the best that we can.’

“We lost one of those babies but, of the most ravaged and the sickest one was this little foal named Starr.

She looked like she had been in a bar fight. I’ve never seen a horse’s face look like her face looked. It was swollen and literally pus dripping from it like so much infection.

“We brought her back that night.

It was raining and it was 3 o’clock in the morning by the time we got in, but we stayed up for the next hour and we doctored that little baby

November 29, 2023 and got her penicillin, got her face cleaned and a lot of that infection removed at least for that night… and she is still alive.”

Starr was located in the vet facility down in Texas with Cameron so they could monitor her white blood cell count and get the infection down. The before and after images reveal quite a big change. On one video, even Olivieri didn’t recognize Starr and asked about her, only realizing it was her when Stoudt informed her it was Starr. “[Cameron] has successfully gotten her to a level that is healthy,” Olivieri said. She was running and I literally couldn’t even believe that I didn’t even recognize her. You can follow her story back on the Instagram. It’s pretty insane.”

Holiday cards and applications The interview with Olivieri will

continue in next week’s issue of The Pulse. Meanwhile, the new website moonmountainsanctuaryandrescue.com is not only one of the ways to find out more about them, but there are limited-edition holiday cards, each with a professional looking handdrawn design, including a Momma and Baby, the Leopard Appaloosa Kashmir, and Starr. The funds go back into the sanctuary.

The application process for those interested in adopting is also available at the site. The application is a six-page form that will require basic horse information and the property where the adopted horse would be kept, as well as a requirement from references, including an equine professional reference. The horses are meant to go to responsible parties who can actually take proper care of a horse(s).

Instructions and other requirements can be found at the “Application” drop-down menu.

Dr. Cameron Stoudt and some of her veterinarian team taking a modern approach to getting the rescue horses healthy.

(Photo by Deborah Michelle)

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse Polk County Births

Mena Regional Health System NOVEMBER 13, 2023 TO NOVEMBER 16, 2023 Sasha & John Wise of Wickes, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Nov. 13th Brooklyn Bearden & Landon Casey of Umpire, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Nov. 13th Ashley & Dennis Walker of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Nov. 14th Olivia Hammer & David Rutherford of Cove, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Nov. 14th Emma Johnson & Juan Lorenzo of De Queen, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Nov. 14th Samantha & Kelly Miller of Cove, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby boy born Nov. 16th Courtney Lawson & William Tucker of Mena, Arkansas are the proud parents of a baby girl born Nov. 16th

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 29, 2023

Community 13

Around Town GriefShare at First Presbyterian Church Mena meet every Wednesday at 1 p.m. for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.

life. We believe the greatest force that molds character comes from the home.

Come join new friends and old as we together grow. For more info, contact Ginger at Gingerkm@protonmail.com.

Democrat Party Christmas Party will be at the Daisy Room (behind Janseen Avenue Florist & Gifts), from 6:30-10 p.m., Dec. 11. Catered

by Papas with fajita checken, rice and beans. Dessert is potluck, so bring your holiday goodies to share.

The Polk County Housing Authority has Rental Vouchers available. They are also in need of Applicants and Landlords. Contact them at 509 S. Morrow, Mena, (479) 3941565 or polkarhousing.com.

GriefShare at The Crossing in Mena meets every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. for anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Christ’s Church of Cove, 5234 Hwy. 71 S, Cove gathers every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m., for free coffee and conversation.

The Food Pantry at the Mena Seventh Day Adventist Church is open every first and third Monday of each month, 4pm - 6pm, located at Fair Grounds Road. For more information, call 479-437-4018.

The Back Country Extension Homemakers Club meets the second Friday of each month at 1 p.m. at the UA Extension’s Education Building, 211 DeQueen St., Mena.

We are a service organization affiliated with UA’s Division of Agriculture with a mission to have fun and learn new things while enriching our community and creating a more contented family

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

Narcotics Anonymous meet at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, noon - 1 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 p.m. on Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday, and 6 p.m. on Saturday at the old bus barn at The Crossing church. For information call Erica at (479) 234-5289 or Candice at (501) 356-8300.

Jam session every Tuesday night, 6-9 p.m. at Shady Mountain Events, 428 Hwy. 375 East, Mena.

No charge, everyone is welcome. All genres of music. Bring your own instrument, come watch or dance. Call (479) 234-7174 with questions.

First Presbyterian Church will be presenting a series on the Book of Revelation in its Adult Sunday School class on Sunday mornings beginning at 9:45. Earl Harrell will be the

presenter and will focus on the titles of Jesus as revealed in the Book of Revelation. The public is invited to attend.

Classes will be in the Helen Barham Room at the church, 904 Church Avenue, Mena.

The Ouachita Beekeepers Association is now meeting on the second Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. in the Education Building of the UA Extension Office, 211 DeQueen St., Mena. Come enjoy bee education, door prizes and socialization with other beekeepers. Call president Tommy Payne at (903) 521-4611 for details.

The Hatfield Branch Library is open every Tuesday and Friday from noon-4 p.m. The library is located at 121 Cemetery Rd. (old Agri building) in Hatfield.

The Cove Branch Library is open Monday and Thursday from noon-5 p.m. The Library is located next to Cove Town Hall at 5568 Hwy. 71 S. The Mena/Polk County Senior Center will have The Gator and Friends band performing in Mena every Thursday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

The Center has an exercise class on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Contact Trena Looney with questions, (479) 394-5459.

The Cossatot Senior Center in Wickes has meals and activities for seniors.The hours are 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. If you need to make delivery arrangements or chang-

es call (870) 385-2373.

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at The Crossing Church, 3 p.m., Sundays; at 5 p.m., Tuesdays; and at 8 p.m. Saturdays at the old bus barn.

For information call (479) 234-8366 or (479) 216-3786.

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

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

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

Alcoholics Anonymous meet at 7 p.m. Fridays at the First United Methodist Church, Ninth Street and Port Arthur. Discussion/Book Study for information call (479) 243-0297.

It’s easy to have your event listed in Around Town, which will be read on radio stations KENA and KQOR daily. Simply send your Around Town announcement to news@mypulsenews.com or call (479) 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!

14 Police

November 29, 2023

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

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOG November 20, 2023 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 35 near Hatfield in reference to two missing juveniles.

They were later located.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a stolen vehicle.

November 23, 2023 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 23 near Cove in reference to a Physical Domestic disturbance leading to the arrest of Derek Davis, 40, of Cove on charges of 3rd Degree Domestic Battery, 1st Degree Criminal Mischief, five counts of 2nd Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Minor, and Interference with Emergency Communication. Also arrested was Mark Davis, 59, of Cove on a charge of Disorderly Conduct.

Deputies responded to a walk-in complainant in reference to a child custody exchange.

Deputies responded to a report of a theft. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

November 21, 2023 Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 43 near Mena in reference to livestock running at large.

Deputies responded to a report of property being destroyed inside the county jail leading to Ronda Castillo, 46, of Mena being issued a citation for criminal mischief.

Teresa Destrini, 58, of Mount Ida November 24, 2023 was arrested by an officer with ProDeputies responded to a report of bation Parole on a charge of Con- a break-in at a property on Polk 76 tempt of Court.

W near Mena.

November 22, 2023 Deputies responded to a report of a possible theft at a residence on Hwy 88 E near Ink. Deputies were dispatched to an area on Hwy 71 S near Hatfield in reference to an altercation. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for further consideration.

Deputies responded to a residence on Polk 42 near Mena in reference to a structure fire.

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

for further consideration.

November 25 Prianna Suggs, 33, of Horatio was Christopher Brown, 48, was arrested on a Felony Failure to Ap- charged with Criminal Trespass at pear Warrant.

Walmart.

Polk County Sheriff ’s Office worked 1 vehicle accident this week.

MENA POLICE REPORTS November 19 A report of criminal mischief was taken on Mena Street.

November 20 A report of theft was taken from Walmart.

November 21 Richard Rausch, 49, was charged with Theft at Walmart.

November 22 A report of theft was taken from Walmart.

Christian Salgado, 31, was charged with Theft by Receiving and Fleeing on Janssen Street.

November 23 A death investigation report was November 25, 2023 Deputies were dispatched to a taken on Highway 71. business near Hatfield in reference to the unauthorized use of a vehicle. November 24 Kaitlan Horner, 34, was charged Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Polk 41 S near Mena in with DWI, Careless Driving, Possession of Open Container Conreference to a calf being killed. taining Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle, No Insurance, and Failure to Stop November 26, 2023 Deputies responded to a report of after Accident after a vehicle crash a physical altercation that had tak- on Jones Street.

Makay Caramez, 21, was charged en place. Information has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney with Theft at Walmart.

Local child abduction calls are either a scam or a cruel prank Polk County Sheriff Scott Sawyer released a statement the afternoon of Nov. 27 to Mena Middle School parents.

“We’ve had several reports of parents receiving calls from an individual stating that their child had been abducted from the school. This is either a scam or a cruel prank.

“All our schools are secure and children safe. We’ve spent the last eight years turning our School Security teams into what I believe are the best in the state. However, for all of our peace of mind, I will be increasing security on our campuses and increasing patrols in and around our schools for however long we deem appropriate.

“The safety of all of our kids has always been a priority for the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office (PCSO).”

THE POLK COUNTY

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November 29, 2023

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ANSWERS FROM PUZZLES ON 11.22.23

A Humane Society of the Ouachitas PET OF THE WEEK

Do you have room in your heart and home for a shelter pet?

Meet APOLLO!

Hi I am Apollo. I am the absolute sweetest dog you will ever find. I am good with other dogs, good with cats, and even good with kids. I am crate trained and working on being house trained. I mean what more could you ask for? I do have a medical condition that can be continued at home. Call the shelter today to ask about me and come meet me! 479-394-5682 All animals at HSO are current on their vaccinations and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

If not already spayed/neutered, there may be a short delay between when you select this pet and when they are ready to go home.

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

16 Classifieds

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

T1129 Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Heavy and light dozer work, heavy excavation, soft ground to rock excavation, heavy off-road hauling, road design and construction 50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction (479) 394-9227 T1227 Tree services, forestry mulching, storm cleanup, stump grinding. Signs and light replacement. Give RC Customz a call at (479) 216-2976 for free estimate.

T0103 Mena Shuttle - Ground transportation to AR and TX airports. Doctor and emergency appointments. Also, light deliveries.

(870) 490-1191 T1129 Handyman Service - Electrical and plumbing. prefer small jobs. For more details, call Bill Duff (479) 216-5204.

T1129 Construction, steel buildings, welding, pads, ponds, and roads. Military discounts.

Insured. Give RC Customz a call for free estimates at (479) 216-2976.

T0103 Carter’s Excavating - Licensed Contractor: Roads, bridges, house pads, building pads, basements, land clearing, small lots to large tracks, ponds, stream crossings, farm roads, building demolition, site planning & prep.

50 years in trade, 40 years in area. Subsidiary of RCI Construction. (479) 394-9227 T1227

$$$$$

- AUTOS FOR SALE -

For sale or trade 1985 Nissan Pickup 4x4.

Runs good, good title, $3,250 OBO (479) 2341492 T1129

- PETS FOR SALE -

Christmas Puppies! AKC mini-dachshunds Call (479) 234-2882 for colors and picT1206 tures.

For sale - AKC English Bulldog puppy, female, standard colors, and ready for her new home. Facebook Arklatex Bulldogs to see this beauty. Call (870) 642-3104 for more information.

TFN

Pulse

November 29, 2023

- CLASSIFIEDS - SERVICES -

THE POLK COUNTY

2023 Ouachita Quilt Show winners

- FOR SALE -

10’ A-frame in Mena area. Can be disassembled for moving. $125. (318) 282-8870 T1129 2 Cabelas Big Outdoors 600 lb. capacity man cot in Mena area. New condition. $70 each. (318) 282-8870 T1129 Tractor umbrella in Mena area. $25.

(318) 282-8870 T1129 Hilti gun TE25 impact bridle in Mena area. $150 (318) 282-8870 T1129 Grizzly 14” band saw model G 1019, 120v, 3/4 hp, 1993, in Mena area. New bearing, new pulley shoes neoprene, new blade guides top & bottom roller guides, 5/8 blade and smaller, new tension block. $275 (318) 282-8870 T1129 IMS 16-speed Model-DP-16F, 1992,120v, in Mena area. Induction, 3/4 hp, large bits, more attachments $300 (318) 282-8870 T1129 Handmade quilts just in time for Christmas, brand new on the quilt rack. Baby quilt to king size, half price. Call (479) 234-1492.

T1206 Large-capacity front load Whirlpool washer, perfect balance, $300, and top load Amana dryer $100. Must sell together. Good condition. (210) 544-0607 T1129

- HELP WANTED Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the Brodix office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment T0424 F.M. Dix Foundry is accepting applications for general labor positions. Applications may be picked up at the office, located at 301 Maple Avenue in Mena, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Competitive starting wages with benefits available.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0424 Brodix, Inc. is accepting applications for an experienced CNC Machine Operator.

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.

Notice to Applicants: Screening tests for alcohol and illegal drug use may be required before hiring and during your employment.

T0424

Article by June Blaine Photos by Ethan Nahté

The Ouachita Quilt Show Committee thanks everyone who participated in making this year’s Quilt Show a huge success.

There were 35 Categories in this year’s show. Each category qualified for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons.

The Best of Show award was the judge’s choice from all the first-place quilts.

In addition to those ribbons, community leaders were asked to pin a mini pine tree on their favorite quilt.

Watch for the Ouachita Quilt Show on its Facebook page for show photos and other announcements.

We are pleased to announce the following winners for the various categories.

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Donation Quilt Winner: Carol Reh Best of Show: Susan Wilcher, “How Great Thou Art” People’s Choice: Rhond Sweet, “Lakeside Hostas”

Community Leader Ribbons: - Arkansas State Representative: Collen Shelley, “My Recovery” - Chamber of Commerce: Linda McAdoo, “Daisy Grace” - Circuit Judge: Jeri Breashears, “Chicken Salad” - City Attorney: Linda McAdoo, “Snowmen A-Z”

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City Clerk: Linda McAdoo, “Basket of Scraps” Mena Chief of Police: Linda McAdoo, “Old Glory” Mayor of Mena: Alice Grenz, “Kitty, Kitty” Mayor of Cove: Jeremiah Perez, “Cats” Mayor of Hatfield: Linda McAdoo, “Blooming Stars” Mena Art Gallery: Linda McAdoo, “Monkey Puzzle” Mena Star: Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Chickens on Parade” Ouachita River School Superintendent: Jeri Breashears, “Bee Vintage” Polk County Judge: Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Chickens on Parade” Polk County Sheriff: Peggy Shelley, “Twinkle Little Star” Prosecuting Attorney: Tammy Free, “After the Rain” The Pulse: Sharon Judkins, “Pumpkin a Day” UARM Chancellor: Jeri Breashears, “Butterfly” Judges of Show: Susan Wilcher, “How Great Thou Art” Judges of Show: Sharon Judkins, “Chicken Salad” Vendor Choice: Rhonda Sweet, “Lakeshore Hosta”; Colleen Shelley, “My Giraffe”

See QUILTS continued on page 18

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 29, 2023

Seal of Biliteracy recognition

Submitted by Maricela Avila

Cossatot River High School (CRHS) would like to recognize the following students for their achievement in earning the Arkansas Bilingual Literacy Seal. With this seal, they demonstrate that they are proficient in both English and Spanish.

With this seal and certificate, the students can show their bilingual skills, and this can help them get future jobs in offices, businesses, clinics, etc... where their skills can

be utilized.

Last year they were evaluated in Spanish and English language proficiency, and this fall they applied for the seal and seven CRHS students earned their seal and certification.

The students are Jennifer Arce, 11th grade; Gustavo Cortes, 11th grade; Santiago Maya, 11th grade; Brandon Moreno, 12th grade; Karah Salgado, 12th grade; Nathalia Trinidad, 12th grade; and Jesus Lopez-Velazquez, 12th grade.

Acorn choir and band holiday performances The Acorn High School Choir along with the fifth and sixth grade of Acorn Elementary will be presenting their Christmas Musical at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, in the Mary Davis Gym.

The Acorn High School Bands grade seventh-12th will be performing their Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 15, in the Mary Davis Gym.

Education 17

UARM registration opens for Spring 2024

By Logan McCourtney

Registration for classes is now open for the Spring 2024 semester at UA Rich Mountain.

needs of local students looking to find training to propel their career, including a Workforce Ready Program that helps train students and find gainful employment in the sur-

Following Christmas and New Year’s break, students will resume classes on Tuesday, January 16.

UARM provides extensive academic opportunities, including several transferable Associate Degrees, and dozens of Technical Certificates and Certificates of Proficiency.

In addition, the college offers Transfer Degree Programs accepted at public universities across the state of Arkansas. UA Rich Mountain also serves the unique and diverse

rounding areas. If you or someone you know is interested in starting your educational journey, returning to complete your education, or learning new skills, reach out to the admission staff at UA Rich Mountain at admissions@uarichmountain.edu or 479-394-7622. Visit uarichmountain.edu for more information about UARM and what we offer.

UA Rich Mountain’s mission is to provide transformative education to all learners.

18 News -

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Quilt Categories Winners - Hand Pieced/Hand Quilted: 1st, Linda McAdoo “Daisy Grace” - Machine Pieced/Home machine quilted: 1st, Rhonda Sweet, “Lover’s Knot”; 2nd, Debra Lay, “Hal-

Pulse

November 29, 2023

Quilts continued from page 16 -

Quilt Show Chairman: Susan Wilcher, “Sweet & Simple” Nimble Thimble Quild: Alice Grenz, “Pinwheels” Quilt Show Committee: Martha Edwards, “Ruler Wrap”; Debra Lay, “Christmas Leftovers”; Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Country Daisies”; Jeri Breashears, “Early Americans”; Linda McAdoo, “Christmas on the Farm” Wyonna Abbott Memorial: Sharon Judkins, “Millie’s Dresses”

THE POLK COUNTY

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loween Candy” Machine Pieced/Long Arm all over quilted: 1st, Peggy Shelley, “Rhododendron Trail”; 2nd, Peggy Shelley, “Oh Boy, More Scraps”; 3rd, JoAnn Mitchell, “Technique Teacher” Kits Machine Pieced including quilts, panels or Wall hangings:1st, Linda McAdoo, “Storm at Sea”; 2nd, Jeri Breashears, “Butterfly”; 3rd, Jeri Breashears, “Bee Vintage” Machine Pieced/Long Arm custom quilted: 2nd, Peggy Shelley, “Christmas Boxes” Machine Pieced/Long Arm hand Guided: 3rd, Jaymie Crisell, “Spring Blossoms” - Combined Te c h n i q u e s / Hand quilted: 1st, Debra Lay, “Sweet Dreams - Combined Te c h n i q u e s / Home machine quilted: 1st, Debra Lay, “Christmas Cookies”; 2nd, Nancy Jo Baker, “Ouachita Row Quilt”; 3rd, Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Counting Daisies” Hand Appliqued/Hand quilted: 2nd, Tammy Free, “After the Rain” Hand Appliqued/Home Machine quilted: 1st, Barbara Dye-Moncrief,

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“Chickens on Parade”; 2nd, Susan Wilcher, “Sweet & Simple” Machine Ap p l i q u e d / Home machine quilted: 1st, Linda McAdoo, “Blooming Stars”; 2nd, Linda McAdoo, “Basket of Scraps” Wall Hanging/Machine quilted: 1st, Nancy Philpot, “All in a Row”; 2nd, Debra Lay, “The Tree is Up”; Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Portal to Your Dreams” Throw Quilt/Hand quilted: 1st, Debra Lay, “12 Months 4 Seasons” Quilt/Machine quilted: 1st, Sha-

ron Judkins, “Chicken Salad”; 2nd, Joyce Sanden, “Gingham Summer”; Jeri Breashears, “Sisters” Miniature: 1st, Judy Myres, “Tedious Shoo Fly”; 2nd, Judy Myres, “Pinwheels & Diamonds”; 3rd, Linda McAdoo, “Mountain House” Baby Quilt: 1st, Patsy Tarlton, “Sailing to Dreamland”; 2nd, Debra Lay, “Ballerina”; 3rd, Martha Edwards, “Snail Trail” Original Design: 1st, Judy Myres, “Cabin Fever”; 2nd, Belle Brunner,

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“Dueling Diamonds”; 3rd, Rebecca Romine, “Jaxon’s Quilt” First Quilt: 1st, Jeremiah Perez, “Cats” Group Quilt: 1st, Linda McAdoo, “Round Robin” Hand Embroidered Quilt/Machine quilted: 1st, Patsy Tarlton, “Goldilocks & 3 Bears”; 2nd, Linda McAdoo, “Snowmen A-Z” - Machine Embroidered/Machine quilted: 2nd, Debra Lay, “Watermelon”; 3rd, Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Live, Love, Sew” - Home Décor: 1st, Debra Lay, “Christmas Leftovers”; 2nd, Martha Edwards, “Christmas Treasure”; 3rd, Linda McAdoo, “Christmas Kitty” Purses, Bags, Totes: 1st, Barbara Dye-Moncrief, “Project Bags; 2nd, Debra Lay, “Cat Treats”; 3rd, Marth Edwards. “Ruler Wrap” Art Quilts/Embellishments: 1st, Susan Wilcher, “How Great Thou Art”; 2nd, Debra Lay, “Singer Sewing”; 3rd, Linda McAdoo, “Old Glory” Other: 2nd, Colleen Shelley, “My Dolly & Me”

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse

November 29, 2023

ORSD District and State XC results

Basketball

12/01 - Acorn @ Caddo Hills 12/02 - Scranton Sr. High

Tournament 12/04 - Booneville Sr. High

Tournament 12/05 - Acorn vs. Murfreesboro

Basketball

11/30 - CRHS vs. Foreman 12/01 - CRHS vs. Mansfield 12/04 - De Queen Sr.

Tournament

Acorn campus hosted the District XC Meet, Oct. 25, on the Acorn Schools’ cross country course. The XC meet included a number of schools with over 150-plus runners competing in the following categories: Junior Girls, Junior Boys, Senior Girls and Senior Boys.

Coached by ORSD XC and Track Coach Keith Willsey and competing from Ouachita River School District-Acorn and Oden junior and high schools, athletes placement in the event included: Junior High Girls: 7 2A - Third Place District Team - First Place, All-District & Overall Winner - Genevieve Simborio (11:12) - Kylie Ezell (12:25) - Kloee Husser (13:53) - McKienzie Long (14:39) - Gracie Smith (15:46) - Kalyn Donalds (17:21) - Belonva McCloud (21:02)

Sports 19

Cossatot FFA shoots to the top at state trap tourney

By Patrick Massey The Cossatot River High School chapter of FFA recently competed in a statewide trap shooting contest and ended the tournament as one of the top teams in the state.

The Cossatot River FFA Trap

Brodie Dickerson shot 46 of 50; Tayden Broach, 42 of 50; and Thomas Goethals, 40 of 50.

Other team members competing in Jacksonville included Cooper Hayes, Spencer Hammer, Landon Case and Gabe Bell.

Basketball

The Cossatot River FFA Trap Shooting Team competed Nov. 17 in Jacksonville for the 2023 Arkansas FFA State Trap Shooting Contest. The team earned several accolades during the competition, including First Place Southern District and Third Place Overall Squad. (Submitted photo)

Wrestling

Shooting Team competed Nov. 17 in Jacksonville for the 2023 Arkansas FFA State Trap Shooting Contest.

The team earned several accolades during the competition, including First Place Southern District and Third Place Overall Squad.

In addition, Cossatot FFA members Flint Dickerson and Justin Bell tied for third in the southern district, each shooting 47 of 50 targets.

12/01 - Mena @ Pottsville 12/04 - De Queen Sr.

Tournament 12/05 - Mena @ Fountain Lake 11/30 - Mena @ Fort Smith

Southside 12/05 - Mena @ Broken Bow

Basketball

11/29 - Mt. Ida vs.

Legacy Academy 12/02 - Mt. Ida vs.

Lafayette County

See CROSS COUNTRY continued on page 20

20 Sports

November 29, 2023

CROSS COUNTRY continued from page 19 Junior High Boys: 7 2A 3rd Place District Team - 3rd Place & All-District - Isaiah Clovis (10:07.2) - Eilam Holland (10:54.0) - Jonathan Guevara (11:29.4) - Cy Young (11:50.7) - Trey Martin (12:05.1) - Clay Carmack (14:33.3) - Eric Aldridge (14:43.1) Senior High Girls: 1st Place, All-District, District Champion - Annabella Tedder Senior High Boys: 7 2A District Champion Team - All-District & Overall Winner Aiden Kimp (20:04.4) - All-District - Caden Tarkinton (20:04.5)

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All-District - Zane Newton (21.09.9) Noah Holland (22:16.7) Kaden Carter (22:37.8) Jorden Davis (24:25.6) Hayden Wagner (25:55.6)

Arkansas State XC Championships The 2023 XC State Championships were held on Friday, Nov. 3, at the Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs.

Acorn High School Senior Annabella Tedder was the lone runner for Acorn High School Senior Girls XC race. She stepped up to the starting line with over 100-plus runners looking to take the state title of state champion.

On a near perfect day, the race began with a mad dash for the first 400 meters. Tedder ran a measured effort for the first 400, running close

to the front in fifth place. The racing then began in earnest with a Mountainburg runner leading the race. The runner, Elizabeth Merritt, was last year’s champion pacing at second place and Tedder pacing at third place.

At the one-mile mark, Tedder made a surge to the front and never looked back. She started pressing the pace and opened up a gap on the field. As she had done with her summer training, Tedder ran alone for the rest of the race. At that point, the championship was for Annabella Tedder, finishing first place and over 40 seconds ahead of the runner who finished second place.

In last year’s state championship meet, Tedder placed second. She will be named to the All-State XC Team and qualified for the Arkansas/Oklahoma All-State Meet held

THE POLK COUNTY

Pulse at Rogers High School on Nov. 11, where she finished 20th in the 5000-meter-run finals with a time of 20:17.67.

Acorn High School Senior Boys finished fourth place in team competition at the 2023 State XC Championships.

Finishing in eighth place overall and making All-State was Caden Tarkinton.

Making the All-State XC Team for Acorn included: Aiden Kimp (second place), Zane Newton, Noah Holland, Kaden Carter and Jorden Davis.

Acorn High School Senior Boys were Class 2A Conference Champions.