Special 2-Week Christmas Issue - Next Issue December 31, 2014 • MyPulseNews.com
December 17, 2014
FREE WEEKLY
THE P LK C UNTY
512 Seventh Street • Mena, AR 71953 • 479-243-9600
Revitalization Continues in Mena’s Downtown
BY MELANIE BUCK & LEANN DILBECK Mena Street is experiencing a resurrection, as one by one, buildings are being restored and bringing new life to the center of town that doubles as the gateway to the Talimena National Scenic Byway. Once the retail hub, the downtown area, like many rural communities, saw a decline and, one by one, these grand historic buildings rich in character and architecture, became vacated and empty. Flanked by Washburn’s Home Furnishings on the south end for over 75 years, and the Polk County Courthouse on the north for 170 years, the buildings between are, one by one, being restored, returning a variety of retail and the arts. When combined with great food, it’s a recipe for success. The decline didn’t happen overnight and neither has the resurrection. One of the sparks in the overall feel began in 1999, when the City invested an average of $500,000/block for the streetscape project, repairing sidewalks and adding lampposts for a majority of Mena Street and the DeQueen Street block surrounding the historic armory. The Janssen to Maple block of Mena Street that didn’t receive the improvements are, according to Mena Mayor George McKee, slated for next year as he explained the FEMA funds designated for the area have now arrived. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 The Cossatot River Cheerleaders have been chosen to perform in the half-time activities at the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida on January 1. The game between Minnesota and Missouri will be broadcast on ABC with kickoff at 12:00 p.m. (CST). Front Row: Karli Underwood, Caylee Mitchell, and Carissa Dowdy. 2nd Row: Karlie Tinkes, Brooke Howell, and Courtney Manning. Back Row: Haley Polk, Hayley Case, and Jacie Tinkes.
Stay Connected!
Harper Named Coach of Year BY LEANN DILBECK After leading the Mena Bearcats to the 4A State Championship game for the first time in 38 years, Head Football Coach Tim Harper has been honored statewide as Coach of the Year by both Simmons Bank and Farm Bureau. Following the awards, Harper told The Pulse, “I’m just so honored that our team of coaches’ and players’ work ethic and commitment continue to be recognized at a statewide level. No one coach gets this award on their own, it is always a team effort. I’m so blessed to work with such great coaches as Craig Bentley, Kevin Bledsoe, Pete Rose, Aaron Pennington, Cody Alexander, and Lantz Castleman. I also want to thank all of the Bearcat fans for their support at the State Championship. Our students and fans were amazing! All of my players and coaches wish we would have played better for you.” [RIGHT]: Junior D’Wayn Grinder was
selected to receive the prestigious Brandon Burlsworth Award for his outstanding defensive
play
during
the
State
Championship. Grinder finished the game
with 14 tackles including six solo tackles. [PHOTO BY RHONDA ELIZABETH]
1020 Mena St. • Mena, AR 71953
479.394.4332 or TOLL FREE 1.888.394.4332
HOURS: Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm • Saturday: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
www.washburns.com
Page 2
December 17, 2014
editor
A NOTE FROM THE
Are you one of the masses that have scrambled and searched to find THE “ultimate” Christmas gift…you know the kind I mean, that is guaranteed to leave them speechless…or maybe screaming with joy? The one that will leave you making payments for the next 24 or 60 months? The one that left you driving three hours one-way to get the last one in stock that they promised to hold for you…only to find out when you got there that they had already sold it? Or maybe you are the crafty type that began weeks ago designing and handcrafting the absolutely perfect gift that will blow their socks off? It’s the gift that you have spent days dreaming about their expression when they open it. Regardless of the money or time spent in getting that perfect gift, none can ever compare to the first gift ever given at Christmas, our Lord Savior Jesus Christ. John 3:16 - “For God so loved the world, that He GAVE His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” I am like many others and find the commercialization of Christmas unfortunate and yet find myself doing the same things each year. So much emphasis is placed on the gifts, the decorations, the parties. Nothing is wrong with any of it as long as in our quest to celebrate the world’s most ultimate gift…we don’t forget the “purpose.” He doesn’t want us to become indebted or stressed in celebrating the most humble birth of the King of Kings. As we go through life, we all seem to ponder along searching for our “purpose.” Can you imagine knowing that your purpose in life was to die for millions of people before you…and for millions to follow you? Many of whom will not even recognize or accept you? The most genuine and pure love anyone will ever know was held by our Heavenly Father when He sent His son…a love His Son carried for each and everyone of us, whether we accept Him or not, to the cross where He was nailed FOR US. Those of us as parents know that we would without a moment’s hesitation lay down our lives for our children…but would you be willing to for complete strangers? Can you imagine the love it takes to give your child for this “purpose?” The world has never seen anything since the first gift of Christmas and knowing that should inspire us to want to share the love of Christ with others. No gift can ever be bought or handcrafted that could ever compare to the gift of Christ…that is guaranteed to fit, to provide peace, protection, everlasting joy and unconditional love. It’s difficult to comprehend the depths of His love or grace because it is truly beyond words, yet for every soul this gift was given. You don’t have to wade through a store or suffer through Aunt Gertie’s fruit-cake to get it…it’s always there and it is meant to be shared. While we may not live in a perfect world, the perfect gift was given to all of us with the purest most genuine love ever known. Long before there were Toys R Us or a Walmart, there was Jesus…Lord of Lords, King of Kings…and the day will come when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord!
“H
e doesn’t want us to become indebted or stressed in celebrating the most humble birth of the King of Kings.
Weekly Publication
The Polk County Pulse & MyPulseNews.com are publications of D&L Publishing Co. locally owned & operated by David & LeAnn Dilbeck.
GET CONNECTED Receive Breaking News Alerts! David & LeAnn Dilbeck Publishers/Editor in Chief
Cynde Hampton Office Manager
Follow us!
@MyPulseNews
Like us!
Meet Our Team
Polk County Pulse
LeAnn Dilbeck Marketing Specialist
billing@polkcountypulse.com
editor@polkcountypulse.com
Melanie Buck
Ilana Burk
School/Community News
news@polkcountypulse.com
Graphic Designer artwork@polkcountypulse.com
Jaclyn Rose
Emmye Rowell
features@polkcountypulse.com
classifieds@polkcountypulse.com
Features/Community News
Contributing Writers
Carla Vaught, Jeff Olson, Rudi Timmerman, Kim Hughes, Barbara Tobias, Michael Reisig
Assistant Graphic Designer
The Distribution Team
Beryl & Julie Renouf, Dan & Linda Deramus, Brenda VanEmmerik
OTHER HELPFUL EMAILS: Events: calendar@polkcountypulse.com Classifieds: classifieds@polkcountypulse.com Obituaries: obits@polkcountypulse.com News: news@polkcountypulse.com
Contact Us:
PHONE: 479-243-9600 FAX: 479-243-9603 512 Seventh Street, Mena
EDITORIAL CONTENT AND RESERVATIONS DEADLINE: MONDAY, 12PM | MATERIALS DEADLINE: MONDAY, 5PM
The Polk County Pulse is the area’s premiere and fastest growing news publication. The Pulse is FREE and published weekly on Wednesdays with a distribution of 8,000 and estimated readership of 10,000. All rights to contents are reserved by D&L Publishing Co. MyPulseNews.com currently has an on-line audience of 31,000 giving us a combined readership of 39,000. POLICY: The Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. All property rights, including any copyright interest, in any advertisement produced by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse shall be the property of D & L Publishing Co. and/or The Polk County Pulse. No such advertisement or any part thereof may be reproduced without the prior written consent of D & L Publishing Co. & The Polk County Pulse. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS: Advertisements of a political nature must be pre-paid and must also include the name of the entity paying for the advertisement. If an entity other than the candidate the advertisement is endorsing is paying for the ad, a statement must be signed by the candidate verifying the candidate has seen and approved the advertisement.
Page 3
December 17, 2014
Chamber to Host Farewell Reception for Herod’s Dept. Store
After serving as a retail cornerstone in Mena’s downtown for over 39 years, Herod’s Dept. Store will soon close their doors. To honor their contributions to the community, the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce will hold a “Farewell Reception,” Thursday, December 18, at their store from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., that is open to the public.
NEWS
18-Wheeler Accident on Hwy 71 Results in Fatality
Weekly Publication
BY LEANN DILBECK A collision involving an 18wheeler and a 2000 Lincoln Towncar resulted in a fatality Friday morning, December 12. The accident occurred just around 7 a.m. on Hwy 71 North near Hillcrest. Arkansas State Police, Polk County Sheriff’s Department, Office of Emergency Management and Acorn Fire Department all responded. Officials on the scene said the driver of the 18-wheeler, John W. Draper of Shreveport, Lousiana, was northbound when the Towncar veered into the cab of his rig. The cab was quickly engulfed but the driver was able to escape without injury. However, Polk County Coroner Brian Bowser pronounced the driver of the Towncar on the scene. The name of the driver of the car was Carolyn Strandridge, age 68, of Mena. Road conditions were wet following a morning shower and visibility was impaired. Traffic was blocked for a time causing multiple delays with school buses for both Mena and Ouachita River school buses as officials worked to clear the highway of debris.
Christmas Cantata!
NEW CHINA Chinese Restaurant
OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY, NEW YEAR’S EVE & NEW YEAR’S DAY
$8.99 ALL DAY BUFFET
Gift Certificates Available
11 am at Calvary Baptist Church Community Christmas Dinner at 12!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
TEL: (479) 394-5534
Located in Northside Shopping Center • Hwy 71 N Sun.-Thurs. 11am-9:30pm • Fri. & Sat. 11 am-10pm
Banquet Room Available for Reserve
Hunter Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing Tires • Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Shocks & Struts
2100 Hwy 375 West
Hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8am-5:30pm 1500 Hwy 71 South, Mena
•394-1938• Owner : Stacy & Julie Nash
Page 4
NEWS
December 17, 2014
Revitalization
Weekly Publication
(CONT. FROM FRONT PAGE)
ARCO, the Arkansas Regional Coalition of the Ouachitas, led by Gar Eisele has also been a driving force in bringing attention to the hidden opportunities in the downtown district. Hosting a session in October 2012 with Ed Levy of Cromwell Architects, the group presented renderings of what additional improvements could be made to “update” downtown while maintaining its quaintness and historical integrity. Symbolic of the partnerships necessary to achieve a complete revitalization, the City of Mena responded to ARCO’s recommendation of new banners adorning the lampposts. “We appreciate CONCLUSION ON PAGE 5
New Items Added Weekly
Monday-Friday 9am-5:30pm Saturday 9am-4pm A Division of Polk County Developmental Center, Inc.
811 EAGLE GAP, MENA
Peachtree Assisted Living facility is currently accepting applications for a
CNA
Thank You!
The Westmoreland Family would like to express sincere gratitude to all those who supported our family after our house fire. We would like to extend a special thanks to the Mena and Ink Fire Departments, Rich Mountain Community College, Remax-Mena, H.E.D.G.E., and all the area churches. We are very blessed in this season. Thank you very much.
WE DO
NOW OPEN
Play area in store for little ones while you shop
• Commercial/Residential • Contract Work • Service Work • Provide Bucket Truck and Backhoe Work • Generac Generator Dealer • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES
for evening shift. Please apply in person at 1803 Cordie Drive, Mena, AR No calls please.
Elks Members & Guests
New Year’s Eve Dance Begins at 8 p.m. featuring Ronnie Bear & White Crow
“
N O T I C E Life & Health Insurance Annuities Medicare Supplements Long Term Care Financial Planning
I’m certified & licensed with several companies, and I can get you the BEST PRICE!
Call: LaDon Copelin CLU, ChFC, CFP® 3015 Hwy. 71 S, Mena • 479-394-5570 AR License #15429 - OK License #40117342
“We can make it happen!”
Advance Tickets $25/couple/$12.50/person
Servicing Mena & Surrounding Areas
At the door $30/couple/$15/person
(479) 394-3419
fivejelectric@sbcglobal.net Fax: (479) 394-3716
Join us for breakfast and champagne toast at midnight!
WE ACCEPT
Elks Lodge - Hwy 375 E.
Page 5
December 17, 2014
Revitalization
Weekly Publication
(CONT. FROM PAGE 4)
the city recognizing this need and stepping up to continue to add to the downtown improvements. As we’ve studied other communities successful in downtown projects, we know it is not one single act or one single organization but it is multiple projects and collaborative efforts that generate results so ARCO genuinely appreciates all of the efforts being made that bring great promise to Mena’s downtown,” said Eisele. Many new businesses have filled the once vacant buildings over the last couple of years, a trend that many hope will continue, as there are still business opportunities just waiting behind the walls of many. New trendy shoe and ladies’ boutiques have added to the versatile retail mix that includes a flower shop, lawn & garden, resale, scrapbooking/card making, flea market and antique stores, combined with cornerstone businesses such as Coast to Coast. Even as Herod’s Department Store bids its farewell, a new ladies boutique is already planned to re-open in 2015. An arts district has blossomed on North Mena Street. Already supported by both the Mena Art Gallery and the Ouachita Little Theatre, the street now boasts another gallery/eatery that is just two doors down from yet a new arts studio that allows kids and adults alike to discover their inner artist. The strong local arts community launched its first Ouachita Arts Festival earlier this year that filled the street and shows great promise as becoming one of Mena’s premiere annual events. Eisele stated, “Many communities across the south are seeing a revitalization of their downtown and it happens when you have strong, progressive and forward-thinking leaders that facilitate partnerships between local government, entrepreneurs and property owners that all embrace the same goal… a strong, growing local economy and that translates to an overall strong community.”
December 24th at 5 pm Come join us for music and communion!
Mountain View Methodist Church 1711 Sutherland Ave., Mena
479-394-3787
NEW Location in Northside Shopping Center
Free pair of solid fleece leggings with a $25 purchase Footware - Buy one Get one 30% OFF
MovieTown
Previously viewed movies make great Christmas Gifts 5 for $25
601 Hwy 71 N., Mena
Candlelight Communion Service
Christmas Eve Wednesday, December 24th 6:00 p.m.
First United Methodist Church Ninth & Port Arthur Mena, AR 394-3051
Locally Owned
479-234-3448 or 479-234-1357
* * NOW AVAILABLE * *
• Red Mulch • Screenings • Class 7 Base • Compost • Landscape Rock (with awesome crystal traits) • Building Rocks, River Rock, Flagstone and MORE
MUCH MORE TO COME
From Mena...we are located 1 mile down 88 East past Pitchford’s Animal Clinic. First drive past the truss shop...look for cedar post sign.
We appreciate your business. Thank You and God Bless!
Page 6
NEWS
December 17, 2014
Young Releases Hawks at Visitor’s Center
BY MELANIE BUCK Two hawks were released last Friday as part of Tommy Young’s push for 80,000 total releases in his thirty years of rehabilitating animals. The first of the two was a Sharp Shin Hawk, hit by a car on November 15 near Ft. Smith. The hawk suffered a head injury with a concussion. Young nursed the bird of prey back to health with the help of Ben Campbell. Young stated that 30 percent of injured hawks are hit by motor vehicles.
Shown above: Tommy Young and Ben Campbell are preparing to release a Sharp Shin Hawk. Shown left: Young shows Chapman how to properly hold the Red Tail Hawk just before its release.
The second release of the day was a Red-Tail Hawk. The bird was sponsored by Joe Chapman, owner of E.S. Construction Company, and his family. The hawk was found hung up in a web wire fence in Texarkana. Young performed surgery and put a pin in its broken wing.
Helping your dreams become a reality!
Select Realty
www.menaselectrealty.com
Brian Erickson, owner of Freedom Pharmacy, is thanked for his firm’s $500.00 gift to the Single Parent Scholarship Fund by Pete Chambers, the scholarship fund’s chair. In presenting the gift, Erickson said, “I know several scholarship recipients. The difference these scholarships make is amazing. Just this year, one recipient opened a new business here in Mena after she graduated from RMCC. We’re delighted that we could help make that happen.”
479-394-7676
Toll Free: (877) 394-7676
#1659 ~ BUY TODAY: PROFIT FOR TOMORROW! Newly update Duplex, 2bedroom 1 bath with each unit having a nice fenced in yard area, never a problem to keep them rented. Call to start your residual income today! $99,000
Visit us online at
Erickson Donates to Single Parent Scholarship
Serving AR & OK Areas 2611 Hwy 71 S. Mena, AR 71953
It’s the sign of success!
#1648 ~ TAKE A CLOSER LOOK! Charming 2 story with brand new wood privacy fence on a corner lot! 2162-SF home. Has 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, graceful dining room, welcoming formal living room, large master, sunny kitchen with walk-in pantry, home office. Hardwood floors run under the carpets. 22x26 garage/shop, storm shelter under the garage, 2 car carport. Beautiful landscaping with mature fruit trees. $109,900
Weekly Publication
#1651 ~ LOOKING FOR A H O U S E U N D E R PRICED??? The Kitchen d i n i n g combo w/bar, pull out drawers. Off the kitchen are double doors open to office w/ bath. Guest arrive and you can pull down the Murphy bed in the office. Living room has cathedral ceilings with patio doors to deck with roll-out covered awning. Door to attic fan. Master bedroom has built in bed and book cases and walk in closet and bath. Sitting on 3.2 acres with seasonal creek and more trees than we can name. Detached garage. $69,900
#1678 ~ SPARKLE LIKE NEW !! Almost completely remodeled with vinyl siding on the outside and a metal roof. Has new plywood floor. The walls are sheet rocked, textured and painted. All that lacks is the trim and doors. The bath room fixtures are there. The kitchen is the only room that has no fixtures. There is a deck in the back and the front. $35,900!
Jan Atchley Principal Broker/Realtor
Bobbie Himel Executive Broker/Realtor
Le-Ann Holmes Vanessa Sanders Realtor/ Web & Marketing
Realtor
#1695 ENJOY THE SUNSET! Log Cabin on 7.6 park like acres invites you to stay and relax! Creek runs alongside the property w/lovely mountain views. Living area has beautiful gas log FP and is open to the kitchen. The bathroom features a walk-in shower. A large storage building is perfect for storing your ATVs. Full length covered porch makes a great place to kick back and watch the sunset after a long day of riding or hiking the trails. Next to Nat Forest! Priced below appraisal! Call today for your showing. $90,000 #1663 ~ VIEW-T-FUL! Cedar and brick two story house with wrap around deck. Double doors open to a split level entrance. Upstairs find a luxurious living room with great windows. The formal dining room has Wainscot. The kitchen has custom made cabinets and extra electric plugs. Guest bedroom has a private bath set off by a gorgeous double sink vanity and glass walk in shower. The double closets are nice. Large family room with room for a pool table. Attached garage and two car detached. Beautiful mountain views from the deck. $149,000
Page 7
Weekly Publication
December 17, 2014
NEWS
American Pickers to Travel to Arkansas
BY MELANIE BUCK History Channel’s American Pickers have Arkansas on their January agenda as part of their hunt for rusty gold. Childhood friends, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, spend their days driving around the country seeking antiques for their two stores, both named Antique Archeology, that are located in LeClaire, Iowa and Nashville, Tennessee. The History Channel describes the duo as ‘two of the most skilled pickers in the business’ and they earn their living ‘by scouring the country for hidden gems in junkyards, basements, garages, and barns.’ Mike and Frank love finding the most rare antiques but they believe the best part of their journeys ‘is meeting the unique characters along the way, each with a story to tell about the history of their collection and their own lives.’ Mike and Frank bring the past to life and recycle America as they go. They use their determination, expertise, and charm to strike the ultimate deals and discover just what it takes to re-sell a newly founded antique in a competitive market. Some of the items they are looking to buy are: motorcycles, motor scooters, pre-60’s bicycles, old toys, vending machines, movie posters, firefighter collectibles, folk art, vintage advertising items, taxidermy, sports memorabilia, Civil War antiques, any unusual items, and more. Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce held an official ribbon cutIf you have a large collection, or want to refer someone, email your name, number, city, state, and a ting ceremony for the newly opened Sonic Drive-In on Hwy. 71 North in description of the collection, to: americanpickers@cineflix.com. They also prefer detailed photos of your Mena, on Monday, December 15. Sonic has been newly renovated and items. Producers ask you to please note that they do not accept retail shops, flea markets, museums, aucis under new ownership and management. They also have new high tions, businesses, or anything open to the public. tech features for the pleasure of their customers.
CHARMED
Jewelry, Handbags, Accessories & Much More
Great Selection of Gifts and Stocking Stuffers.
We will be open until 6 p.m. Christmas Eve. To our friends & customers we extend our sincerest wishes for a happy holiday season. FROM OUR FAMILY AT CHARMED TO YOURS... Northside Shopping Center • 479-394-1992
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays
from Hornet
Tire & Automotive
109 5th Street in Cove 479-234-7572
Page 8
NEWS
December 17, 2014
3 Local Authors Release Books Just in Time for Christmas
Weekly Publication
CHASING DREAMS KILLING IDOLS: A Story of Almost Famous
BY MELANIE BUCK Logan Merrick, Youth Pastor at First Baptist Church in Mena, had a book signing yesterday to promote his story of loss and redemption. In the book, Chasing Dreams Killing Idols: A Story of Almost Famous, Merrick tells of chasing his dreams, losing himself along the way, and learning that only through Christ could he find his way back. Merrick was given the gift of music and chose to chase his dreams, starting a band. He wanted to use the band to “show others the glory of God through music.” He realized that it wasn’t all he thought it would be. Merrick said, “In the end, it ultimately became my downfall. My downfall as a friend, a husband, a father, but more importantly, as a believer in Jesus Christ.” “What God showed me through it all was that these dreams that I had, they became an idol in my life,” stated Merrick. He explained, “We see idols as these ancient pagan things, but what we don’t understand is, everything can be your idol if it has your affection, if it has all of your devotion, your time, your money. Dreams are a great thing. They’re a good thing but when they take the place of God, it’s an idol.” Through his experiences, he offers insight on how to spot the idols in your life and illustrates how to chase a God-given dream without allowing it to become your spiritual demise. To learn more about Merrick’s book, visit vimeo.com and use the search bar to find his book trailer. Books are available at amazon.com, all proceeds go towards fighting child sex trafficking.
Arkansas Treasures
Photographer William Rainey has published a photobook called Arkansas Treasures. The book is a collection of some of Rainey’s best works. It shows many of the amazing things Arkansas is blessed with from beautiful landscapes to an amazing diversity of flora and fauna, along with famous quotes about nature and wisdom to inspire. Rainey is more than a photographer, he owns The Chopping Block Restaurant in Mena with his wife, Sherry, and he is also an avid explorer and outdoorsman. Rainey will hold a book signing at The Chopping Block on Friday.
Ermadilla Goes to Bethlehem
SUBMITTED Children’s Author, Erma Dilbeck Mize has announced her second book is out just in time for Christmas. The title is Ermadilla Goes to Bethlehem and as the title suggests, it is a Christmas story. She is quick to add “the real Christmas story.” Local artist, Bill Wells, is again the illustrator. His talent will be enjoyed as the reader follows Ermadilla along on her way to Bethlehem. Polk County residents may even recognize some of the carolers singing on a street corner. This is an excellent Christmas story to be read time and again. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and everyone who has a child they know and love, will want to make this book a part of their child’s library. The book is available in both soft cover and hard cover. The book is available on LifeWay.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com. Other sites to visit are the Ermadilla page on Facebook, managed by the author’s daughter, Vicki McCoy, and the website Ermadilla.com, managed by nephew, Terry Bitterlich.
Auto-Home-Life Motorcycle Mobile Home Boat-ATV
Alone for Christmas? Unable to make Christmas Dinner for the Family? You are invited to a special
Get’s you back where you belong.
Christy Medlin Insurance Agent
MEDLIN INSURANCE AGENCY LICENSED IN OKLAHOMA & ARKANSAS
900 Hwy. 71 N. Mena, AR 71953 cmedlin@farmersagent.com 479-394-5555
Christmas Dinner December 25th 11 am - 2 pm at the
Limetree Restaurant Completely FREE and Open to the Public!
Page 9
Weekly Publication
December 17, 2014
NEWS
2014 Bearcats End Historic Season as 4A State Runner-Up
BY NORM BETZ All good things must come to an end, and for the Mena Bearcats, it came with a historic finish. The Bearcats finished as the State Runner-Up after making their final appearance of the season in the Arkansas 4A State Championship in War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock. The final score was 48-14, with the Warren Lumberjacks being named as State Champs. Despite the loss in the 4A Championship, the Bearcats have nothing to hang their heads about after finishing the season with an overall record of 12 wins and 3 losses. Prior to the season, Mena was picked to finish sixth in the 7-4A Region (out of eight teams). Not only did they finish second in 7-4A, but they also finished second out of 48 teams in the state. The 2014 Bearcats set many records on their way to the state finals. They did something that hadn’t been done at Mena in 17 years: they hosted a playoff game. After winning their first two playoff games, the Bearcats set a school record for hosting a third-round playoff game. The records didn’t stop there, as they hosted a State Semifinal game (fourth-round playoff game) for the first time in school history. Next, the Bearcats did something that hasn’t been done in 37 seasons: played for a State Championship. The Bearcats also tied a school record with 12 total wins. This has only happened twice in Mena’s history. The Bearcats are presented the State-Runner Up trophy backed by the thousands of loyal In the 4A State Championship game, the Bearcats trailed the Lumberjacks 7-0 at the end Bearcat fans that followed them to War Memorial Stadium. PHOTO BY NORM BETZ of the first quarter. Warren’s Kilay Cox scored his first of five touchdowns in the game on a 14yard run. The Lumberjacks picked up seven first downs in the opening quarter, while the Bearcats only passed the sticks once. Senior Jackson Daugherty picked up the first down on a seven-yard run over the right side. Warren had 20 total plays in the first for a total of 184 yards, while Mena picked up a total of 27 yards on 11 plays. Senior Sage Kesterson went three-for-five for 12 yards, completing two passes to senior Justin Castor and one to Daugherty. The Bearcats defense bowed up on the Jacks’ last drive of the first quarter, stopping Warren on the Mena three-yard line. It looked like the Bearcats offense had a hold of some of that momentum that the defense just supplied, but, after picking up one of their first first-downs of the game, Mena was forced to punt on fourth-and-three from their own 27-yard line. Kesterson connected with sophomore Ryan Ozanich for a 17-yard gain on the drive. CONTINUED ON PAGE 30
First Presbyterian of Mena Invites You Home for Christmas Eve If you are new to Mena, now without a church, or have no place to worship on December 24th, the Presbyterian Church welcomes you home at 6:00 pm Christmas Eve. There will be strings, carols, and a candlelight communion to celebrate the birth of our Savior - all in the setting of our beautiful sanctuary. We have an open communion and all who follow Christ are welcome to take part. So come on home on Christmas Eve, the way you always wanted it to be. There is a candle and a pew for you.
Christmas Eve - 6:00 pm
First Presbyterian Church • 9th and Church Streets • Mena, AR
Page 10
NEWS
December 17, 2014
DAVA Places Wreaths for Veterans
DAVA Commander Margaret Scott and Adjutant Treasurer Carol Burns placed Christmas wreaths on the graves of veterans at Pinecrest Cemetery in Mena on Pearl Harbor Day. DAVA stands for Disabled American Veteran’s Auxiliary. The national group serves disabled veterans and their families. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY CAROL BURNS
Earhart Retires
The members of the Pine Crest Cemetery Board recently honored Tom Earhart who is retiring after 29 years of serving on the board. Earhart held several positions while on the board including, lot salesman. He also marked graves for funeral homes, worked with monument companies to insure proper placement of markers, helped families locate gravesites, and cleaned up debris after wind, snow, and ice storms. His latest project has been to place cylinders to hold flags that have been placed at veterans’ graves.
Weekly Publication
Wickes Graduate Awarded Assistantship for Prestigious Workshop BY MELANIE BUCK Wickes graduate Zac Counts, is one of only 12 students from across the nation to have been awarded an assistantship for a prestigious printmaking workshop. Counts graduated from Wickes High School in 2011. He is currently a senior graphic design major at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. His assistantship will be for the 2015 Frogman’s Printmaking Workshop at the University of South Dakota. Counts is expected to graduate in May with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Graphic Design. Dawn Ward, Professor of Art and head of Arkansas Tech’s Department of Art, said the workshops host printmakers for intense weeklong sessions in specialized printmaking courses and provide attendees with valuable networking and inspirational connections that help advance their careers. Funding from the assistantship and from the Arkansas Tech Student Development Fund will help Counts defray costs.
Happy Holidays Holiday Hours:
from your Mena Atwoods Associates 9 am - 7 pm Sunday 7 am - 9 pm Monday - Saturday (through Dec. 20th) 7 am - 6 pm Christmas Eve CLOSED Christmas Day 7 am - 8 pm Monday - Saturday (beginning Dec. 26th) 7 am - 6 pm New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day
1100 U.S. 71, Mena, AR 71953 • (479) 394-3600
Page 11
Weekly Publication
Betty Jean (Wright) Davis was born December 21, 1934, at Shady Grove near Mena AR, to Eugene and Rosebud (Terrell) Wright. She lived in Odessa, TX most of her adult life, and was of the Methodist faith. She passed away December 10, 2014, at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab Center, in Mena AR. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Earl Davis, and nephew Rus Venable. Survivors include two sisters, Cathryn Jo Simpson and Patsy Venable of Mena, AR; three nieces, Kathy McCormick, Louise Buchanan, and Lanette Emry; and one nephew, Travis Venable; one great niece, Heather Grenier; and four great nephews, Chris Moody, Matt Moody, Cory Thompson, and Dillon Buchanan; as well as several great-great nieces and nephews. Funeral services were Saturday, December 13, at 2:00 p.m. in the Beasley Wood Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Tom
PHYLLIS A. VAUGHT Phyllis A. Vaught, age 80, of Mena passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2014 in Hot Springs. She was born May 5, 1934 in Mena to the late George Washington Hess and the late Nannie Bell McMillan Hess. Phyllis was married to Bill G. Vaught and was a homemaker. Her hobbies were “Mothering” her family, which was her greatest blessing, gardening, fishing and hunting with family and friends. Her favorite pets were her dogs, Bubba and Sissy. She was a loving and kind wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to all. She will be missed dearly by all. She is survived by, husband, Bill G. Vaught of Mena, Arkansas; children, Helen
The Polk County Housing Authority has apartments located in MENA, HATFIELD, COVE AND WICKES APPLICANTS ARE NEEDED
Not all bedroom sizes and locations are immediately available. MAXIMUM RENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: 3 BEDROOM $571.00 2 BEDROOM $423.00 1 BEDROOM $323.00 Efficiency $309.00 The Housing Authority pays the following expenses: Natural Gas, Water, Sewer and Garbage pickup.
ACTUAL RENT IS BASED ON INCOME
WE CONDUCT A CREDIT AND CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND APPLICANTS MUST MEET INCOME GUIDELINES. POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY PROPERTIES ARE “SMOKE-FREE” ALL APPLICANTS ARE ACCEPTED ON TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS PHONE: 479-394-1565 or 479-394-1569 APPLY AT: Polk County Housing Authority 509 South Morrow Street, Mena, AR 71953
Wright and companion Ray Lovett of Mena, Gary Vaught and wife Susan of North Little Rock, Sue Oglesby and husband Randy of Mena, Betty Campbell and husband Bernard of Alabama, Karen Vaught of Mena, Billy Vaught of Mena, Sharon Strothers of Mena; sixteen grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Toombs of Edward, Oklahoma; brother, Doyle Hess of Nevada; several nieces and nephews, and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Annie Hess, and grandparents who raised her, John William “Bill” and Laurie Jane Craig McMillan. Funeral services were Friday, December 12, 2014, at Cherry Hill Methodist, 10:00 a.m. with Brother Mark Lyle officiating. Interment followed in the Nunley Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends held visitation Thursday, December 11, 2014 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Pallbearers were her grandsons, Matt Wright, Wesley Vaught, Jonathan Vaught, Cody Oglesby, Riley Oglesby, Justin Wray, Jarin Vaught, Trent Vaught, Dillon Vaught, and Nathan Strothers.
LUCY A. FLOYD Lucy A. Floyd, age 88, of Mena passed away Saturday, December 13, 2014 in Mena. She was born June 15, 1926 in Sayre, Oklahoma to the late John Albert Maddox and the late Lillie Mae White Maddox. Lucy worked at McDonalds when it first opened and was a cook for several years at Mena Manor Nursing Home. She was a loving and
Rich Mountain Lumber
Hatfield, Arkansas Currently buying delivered Pallet Wood, Pulp Wood, and Pine Pulp Wood. Call for NEW prices. Buying standing timber and timberland
Please Call 870-389-6464 For a free estimate of your standing timber or timberland
kind mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed. She is survived by, daughter, Lucy Ann Chaney of Mena, Arkansas; sons, Dennis Merle Smith of Roshason, Texas, Bobby Wayne Smith and wife Sandra, Alvarado, Texas, Gregory Earl Strickland of Arlington, Texas; sister, Zona Jackson of Mesa, Arizona, grandchildren, Bridget Foreman, Kim Chaney, Carla White, Jason Chaney, Wes Smith, Shane Smith, Denise Reynolds, Cheryl Creamer, and Andrea Smith Prater; several great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Lilly Maddox, husband, Billy Joe Floyd, son, Karlis Irvan Strickland, and eight brothers and sisters. Funeral service will be Thursday, December 18, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood Chapel with Brother Jack Schoeppey officiating. Interment will follow in the Six Mile Cemetery in Hatfield under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation will be Wednesday, December 17 at Beasley Wood from 5:00 -7:00 p.m. Pallbearers will be Aaron Pearson, Jason Chaney, Travis Chaney, Nicolas Chaney, Fred Chaney and Marcus Warren.
OBITUARIES
BETTY JEAN (WRIGHT) DAVIS
Frase, officiating. Interment will be at a later date at Mt. Gilead Cemetery in the Rocky Community. Arrangements were under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
December 17, 2014
Obituaries Available at MyPulseNews.com Williams Medical Clinic, L.L.C.
Dr. Robert S. Williams, M.D. All Major Insurance Accepted 403-E N. Morrow St., Mena, AR 71953
479-243-9024
New Patients Welcome
Page 12
CITIZEN
December 17, 2014
Linda Shelly - A Special Kind of Woman
Weekly Publication
BY JACLYN ROSE The daughter of a retired Air Force Captain, Linda Shelley was raised in Mena, and graduated from Mena High School in 1989. After completing high school she began her path to higher education, and in 2010 graduated with a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Southern Arkansas University. In 1994, Shelley married her husband, Keith, whom she met at Mena High. “Our faith is so important to us; it is what has held us together. We attend Saint Agnes Catholic Church and have raised our children in the church. That is what has gotten us through the hard times,” explained Shelley. The Shelley’s have four children: Allison, a Special Education Para at Holly Harshman Elementary (HHE), as well as wife to Matt Hughes and a mother to Shelley’s grandsons: Adam, Mason and Bryce; Katherine, a LPN at Sparks Hospital in Fort Smith; Michael, a current student at Arkansas Career Training in Hot Springs; and Matthew, a student at Mena High School. “The fact that God trusted me enough to have me raise these children is one of my favorite things about being a mother, He trusted me with these three beautiful individuals. And being a Nana to my grandsons is the best gift from God ever,” said Shelley. One of Shelley’s sons, Michael, was born with special needs and through raising him, Shelley found her inspiration for the work she was to do in her life. Shelley has been with the Mena Public Schools for 12 years now and currently works at Mena Middle School (MMS) as a Resource Teacher for sixth through eighth grade. “I work with students that need a little extra, mainly in literacy. I will work with students in their classroom, re-teaching what they have learned. I also pull out some and teach them in my classroom,” explained Shelley. Prior to her move to MMS, Shelley spent five years in the self contained classroom at HHE. “I am happy at my job. I work with the most amazing people. Our Principal, Mr. Hobson, is so caring and I greatly respect him. You think about middle school kids and how they can be at that age, but they are different when you are helping them. One of my students was testing and told the teacher, ‘I don’t understand it until Mrs. Shelley explains it.’ That is their way of showing appreciation. My job is very rewarding. I’ve been on both sides of the special needs table as a teacher and a parent and I know what it’s like and how my own child felt. I feel like God knew exactly what He was doing when He placed me in this line of work,” Shelley explained. For Shelley, her life simply revolves around her faith, her family, and her job. “Church, school, and my family, that’s my life in a nut shell and that’s enough,” explained Shelley. “I don’t think I could do much else and still be able to give it my all.” “I feel like we are so privileged to live in a community like Polk County. When anyone is hurting, the people here always rise up and take care of their own. I recently had a problem at school and I had to call the Mayor and he jumped on it and helped. We live in a community of very caring people. We also have a wonderful school system. All of my children did very well in Mena and Michael would not have made it through if it weren’t for Mena Schools,” said Shelley.
Acupuncture $ Therapy
Headaches / Allergy Joint Pain / Neck / Back Muscle Pain Dr. Max DeLee, D.C. 1142 D Hwy. 71 South, Mena 501-282-6754
Feel Better Faster
MILES CONSTRUCTION & HANDYMAN SERVICE OWNER - JASON MILES
*Free Estimates*
“We’ll go the extra mile for you!”
* Custom Homes * Remodels * Window Replacement * Additions * Vinyl Siding
479-216-3072
Celebrating our 12th Anniversary Serving Polk County!
Polk County officials have researched and found us to be the most experienced and financially stable company to serve the area for the past 12 years! If needing to be transferred from Mena Regional to another medical facility such as Ft. Smith, Hot Springs, etc, call on the trusted ones! Owned by Robby & Sherri Hines
479-394-8055
822 Mena Street, Mena Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm
WE NOW HAVE:
Men's Clarks & Rocky Women’s and Men's Sanuk
BOGO 50% OFF Sale Friday and Saturday Storewide* (scrubs included**)
* BOGO 50% off of equal or lesser value **Buy a scrub set get a set 50% OFF
Corporate Office: 1311-C Hwy 71 North Mena, AR 71953 479-394-7300
Visit us at swemsar.com
Call us today to inquire about our Membership Program!
Page 13
Weekly Publication
The Hair Fairy - Creating a Princess in You
479.394.4248 104 Port Arthur Avenue Mena, AR 71953-3344
703 F Hwy. 71 North Mena, AR 71953
(479) 394-7766
811 4th Street, Mena
479-385-2136 or 479-385-1085 Mon.-Fri. 8:30 am - 5 pm • Sat. 8:30 am - 1 pm
Doty Constuction Call us TODAY! 1-479-216-3555 1-479-437-3304
Bruce’s
Appliance Service Repairs done in your home.
Bruce Erickson, Owner
479-234-3570
BY JACLYN ROSE “I’ve always been a fan of fairies and imagination and I know sometimes they are seen in a negative light, but I wanted to make something positive out of them and name my shop after something I enjoy, so I came up with The Hair Fairy and I love it,” explained Kristin Nichols. A 1989 graduate of Mena High School, Nichols was born and raised in Polk County, Arkansas. Immediately following graduation, she began working on her cosmetology license at Dana’s School of Cosmetology. A colorist, Nichols is an expert in hair color and mixology and is always looking for new techniques and knowledge. Nichols opened her first salon, Sagebrush Salon, in 1991, on Highway 71 North. “I hired my night instructor from Cosmetology School, Diane Rotter, to work with me. I learned so much from her during that time,” said Nichols. Before long Nichols moved, and for the next several years worked in several different places in Arkansas. Aside from cosmetology, Nichols followed in the footsteps of her mother, local realtor, Mary Story, and obtained her real estate license in 1993. For years she sold real estate, while maintaining her cosmetology on the side. Thirteen years ago, Nichols married her husband, Lucas. “Coming back to Mena and opening a salon was my dream and he has really encouraged me. He is my backbone of support, I couldn’t do it without him,” explained Nichols. A homeschooling mother, Nichols has three children: Tanner, a member of the United States Air Force; and Karley and Tracer, whom she educates at home. “We have a music ministry, a bluegrass gospel group, and we travel so much and homeschooling has allowed us the right amount FULL ATV of freedom. It was just right for us,” Nichols said. SERVICE After many years on the road, in October of 2014, Nichols came back to her roots and opened The Hair & REPAIR Fairy, a full service salon. Aside from her strength in Paul Mitchell brand hair color, Nichols offers acrylic nails, nail art, manicures, pedicures, and aromatherapy with Doterra Essential Oils. She also specializes in Hwy 71N/Hwy 88E Junction (Behind Terminix) razor and precision cuts, all in her charming shop, located at 804 Highway 71 South in Mena. “I have done 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY a lot of traveling and I feel like God just showed me I needed to do this again. Every person that comes in here has told me that they felt compelled to come and they have all been such a blessing to me! It’s not all about the hair; every conversation manages to turn into a spiritual one. I call this the ‘Venus Fly Trap,’ they don’t know what they are getting in to when they come in here,” said Nichols with a laugh. “I thought the name would knock men off but they have shocked me and I’ve worked with a lot of men, hunters and loggers come in and they love it!” With the assistance of her husband and her mother, Nichols has created a fun and vibrant atmosphere in “Serving your families with her shop. “I couldn’t have done this without my mom. God worked so much through her and she has helped Dignity & Care for over 80 years” me so much getting started. I love art, especially Selected Funeral & Life Insurance Agent Member of the National Funeral paint and I feel like my personality is really just blown Directors Assoc. up in here, everyone has really loved it,” explained 611 Janssen, Mena, AR Nichols. (479) 394-1310 The Hair Fairy’s posted hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am until 5:30 pm and Saturday from 10:00 am until her last scheduled appointment. “While I have my hours, I do want the public to be aware that evening and after hours appointments are available. I am flexible, just call 479.394.8037 and make an appointment,” Nichols said. “These are my people. I was born and raised here and I love the people. I also love the way the town is tucked away in the mountains. I’m like Dorothy, I believe there is no place like home,” said Nichols. “This is my safe zone, my security blanket. Like us on Facebook! I’m so thankful to be back here.”
End of Year Inventory Blowout on
BUSINESS
Manufacturer of Quality CNC Parts
December 17, 2014
Beasley-Wood Geyer-Quillin Funeral Home
479-394-4535 Open 7 Days a Week
••• HOLIDAY SPECIALS •••
One Stop!! Everything Automotive Repair Shop!! 479-394-4100 918 Hwy. 71 South • Mena
ALL New Tires!
OIL CHANGE
$29.99 - BRAKE PAD SPECIAL $79.99 - ALIGNMENT $49.99
Page 14
AT THE CAPITOL
December 17, 2014
State Trauma System Faster, More Efficient
BY SENATOR LARRY TEAGUE LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas trauma system has been a tremendous success, not only when measured by the number of lives it has saved but also by the improved quality of life of survivors. Before the legislature created the trauma system in 2009, it took several hours for medical officials to arrange for trauma patients to be accepted at a higher level facility that had the resources to provide proper care. Now, the average time of acceptance for all trauma patients is seven minutes and 17 seconds. It’s critical to get accident victims as quickly as possible to the right medical facility. That doesn’t always mean the closest medical facility, but the one that has specialists on hand to provide emergency care with equipment necessary. Before creation of the trauma system, ambulance drivers drove to the closest hospital or medical facility. Now, they bypass the closest facility about 24 percent of the time, in order to continue on to the higher level hospital that has the ability to treat severely injured patients. In a state like Arkansas, with vast areas of highways in rural areas, the ability of ambulances to save time is vital. What makes it work is a statewide telecommunications network manned 24 hours a day by EMTs and nurses who direct ambulance drivers to the nearest hospital with the appropriate capability. Trauma radios have been installed in more than 500 ambulances in Arkansas. When the ambulance picks up an accident victim, EMTs can immediately contact the trauma network. Then they are connected to emergency room personnel at the ambulance’s destination. Therefore, as soon as the patient arrives at the hospital, staff is prepared to begin treatment because much of the preparatory work has been done while the ambulance was in route. In the past four years the trauma communication center has coordinated the proper destination and care for more than 58,000 patients. In Arkansas 117 ambulance providers participate in the state trauma system, which provides funding for training at 32 locations. Since the legislature created the trauma system with Act 393 of 2009, more than 150 new paramedics and EMTs have been trained. So far, 69 hospitals have joined the trauma system. Five are designated as Level 1, which is the most comprehensive. Also, four have been designated as Level 2. They offer the same level of care as Level 1 hospitals, but lack the community outreach and education programs that Level 1 hospitals offer. Twenty hospitals are Level 3. They provide treatment for mild and moderate injuries, which are the majority. Forty 5 hospitals are Level 4, which means they can stabilize severely injured patients for transfer to a higher level center. In 2008, before passage of Act 393, traumatic injury was the number one cause of death for Arkansas residents between the ages of 1 and 44. Our injury fatality rate was 33 percent higher than the national average. Medical officials are still measuring the effect of our trauma system. It’s impossible to compare current fatality rates with what might have happened had we done nothing. However, we do know that from 2009 to 2011 the Health Department counted 90 fewer deaths in Arkansas caused by injuries. The system is relatively new and utilization of all aspects of the trauma network continue to increase, but the early results are very positive. Our trauma system is saving lives.
Weekly Publication
Bell Compares State Employee Data
BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE NATE BELL Arkansas politicos and media outlets regularly highlight the differences between the policy positions of liberals and conservatives. Those disagreements certainly do exist, but opportunities for those on both sides to simultaneously achieve their objectives also exist. Conservatives have long campaigned for more efficient, effective and accountable state government. Liberals have historically led the push for higher state employee pay and benefits. Policy makers from both points of view have a fantastic opportunity to come together and facilitate our state government acheiving both goals. Several years ago, I began comparing the public employment statistics of Arkansas and other states with similar populations. In recent years I have compiled and studied data from the US Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics etc., about state employment in Arkansas, Kansas, Utah, and Iowa. Due to space limitations, I’ll focus on the Kansas comparison today. Kansas is home to 2.85 million people and Arkansas is home to 2.91 million people. Kansas is a larger state in terms of land area with 82,278 square miles of land area vs. 53,178 square miles in Arkansas. I began to study the census data of both states after noticing that Kansas has nearly 20,000 fewer state employees than the state of Arkansas (2010 numbers) yet seems to function well. Based on the most recent data available their annual state payroll is nearly $660,000,000 less than ours yet their average state employee earns 10% more (Iowa public employees earn approx. 40% more) than the average Arkansas state employee. The costs associated with providing office space, computers, vehicles etc., are not included in these payroll numbers. These costs add approximately another 25% to the total cost indicating a total cost differential near $825,000,000. Some of the comparison data is available at these links: Kansas https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AlVJikBxrq8dHhXdlJXSDlqV1F3LWhuWG5KMFd5ZXc#gid=0 Utah https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AlVJikBxrq8dHdFcWhvTlZwZVFhN2EyUjhDb2U0Unc&usp=sharing Iowa https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AlVJikBxrq8dHJpT0V1MVB2b3h0andnOXJyTUNqTUE&usp=drive_web#gid=0 The bottom line is that Arkansas has nearly 44% more people on payroll than Kansas, pays them less but spends substantially more tax dollars in the process. This pattern was repeated in each of the states I studied. Arkansas has many dedicated state employees who work very hard and who strive for excellence and efficiency. I believe these great people should be well paid and I believe we can accomplish this by paying fewer people more money. This will result in a more stable and satisfied workforce and simultaneously result in more efficient use of taxpayer funds. I don't believe there's any "magic bullet" piece of legislation that can make this happen. Achieving higher compensation, a more efficient workforce and taxpayer savings will require a cooperative effort between the Governor’s office, state employees and the legislature. With a consistent cooperative effort, we can achieve these objectives within 8-10 years without layoffs or other RIFFs. Let’s work together to make Arkansas state government the model of efficiency and performance that other states will seek to replicate. We can do it!
FREE GIFT CARD Get a $25 GIFT CARD when you buy $100 in PARTS CITY GIFT CARDS offer available only at:
479-394-7301
1102 Crestwood Circle Mena, AR 71953
SPURGIN’S SOUTHERN AUTO SUPPLY 479-394-1351 • 800-394-1351 201 HWY. 71 N., Mena Mon.-Fri. 7am-6pm, Sat. 8am-4pm
OFFER GOOD ONLY THROUGH DECEMBER 24, 2014
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
“What Christmas means to me...” by Local 2nd Graders from Acorn, Wickes & Louise Durham Elementary Schools
Includes Baby’s 1st Christmas
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 15
Page 16
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 17, 2014
“What Christmas means to me...”
ACORN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Mrs. “G’s” Class:
Kailee B. To celebrate Jesus birthday. To have my family together. To have fun. To love people you love. To have a great day. To help people who are sick. To have the Christmas spirit. To sit by the fire. To play in the snow. Kohlea Christmas isn’t Just about prsents. It’s the day of Jesus’ Birthday. Christmas is about family and Friends. How love and caring for you. Duncan Christmas is about Christ. Not opening presents. it’s when we get to go to our friend’s house And get to play with your friend. Sydney Christmas means to me is Jesus’ Birthday is on Christmas. My family gets together, We go to my grandma and grandpa house and we celebrate Christmas. We pray to the lord and sing grace. We hang are stonking by the tree. Timothy Getting to spend time lith my family going to school to do the Christmas play and set up the tree and its all about Santa and his reindeer and especially Rudolph. Without him you could not see. I hope you can do your job.
Aiden It is not about the presents it’s about spending time with your family.
Gabriel I finally get to see my grandparents. We spend time together, I have fun being with my whole family. We have fun together. Christmas is my favorite holiday. George It means that I love my family. I can spend time together and open presents. I like Christmas and playing in the snow. with my family and friends. I love my family. Rebecca Christmas is the time I get to spend time with family and friends and the time my family celebrates Jesus Christs birthday and Pray for our family and friends. We also, will sometimes, we eat not all the time but sometimes we eat food and we say that we care about each other. that is what Christmas means to me.
ner. And put Christmas pajamasas And go to bed.
Mrs. Daniels’ Class: Paul Christmas means a lot to me because it was baby Jesus’ birthday and I am with my family and we do stuff that is fun like decorateing a tree and drinking hot cocoa. christmas is a time to have fun and celebrate.
Hailee Christmas is when the family gets together and sings songs. Christmas is one of my favorit holidays. Christmas when the whole world is happy and filled with joy. Arayah That I get too be with my grandpa that is fixing too die. And my family, There for me. They protect me from danger. There my family. Christmas means to me is that is too set the tree up with my grandpa. I love him and he loves me. It means love it means love.
Kayleigh N. What Christmas means to me is celebrating Jesus birth with my family. It is not about food or presents it’s about how people love you most of all Jesus.
James Christmas means to me a time to celebrate Jesus’ birthday. What makes me happy on Christmas is spending time with my family. Chloe Brandon Haveing fun with yuor family, making hot cocoa and praying for Jesus. Just have a great Christmas with your family. Amy The thing that means to me is a time to be with my famley. CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
May the Holiday Season bring only happiness and joy to you and your loved ones.
Tyler Christmas means to me I open presents with my family. We spend time together. See my grandma and grandparents and dress up as elves. Hanging out Christmas lights. Eat a Christmas din-
We want to wish a holy Christmas to all our friends and families that we have served throughout the year. We pledge our continued service to you in the coming years. Blessings to you and yours
BOWSER FAMILY FUNERAL HOME Brian and Stacey Bowser 2608 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, Arkansas 479-394-4477 • www.bowserffh.com
Merry Christmas and the happiest New Year! FROM ALL OF US AT CENTURY 21
JO COBURN
JANET CORCORAN
479-234-6016
479-394-8541
SALES ASSOC.
ASSOC. BROKER
EUDELL HEAD AMANDA WARRINGTON GARY MCMELLON SALES ASSOC.
479-216-3544
VICKI AGEE
RACHEL LANCE
479-234-3626
479-234-3594
SALES ASSOC.
SALES ASSOC.
SALES ASSOC.
479-234-8114
SALES ASSOC.
479-637-6814
JEANIE LEE
SALES ASSOC.
479-216-3789
NORMA TRAMMEL DONNA YURONKA TIFFANY LANE, CRB EXEC. BROKER
479-216-4313
SALES ASSOC.
479-234-3010
PRINCIPAL BROKER/OWNER
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 17
“What Christmas means to me...� CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 Damon Is a time to spend time with my family and open presents. Also, a time to celebrate Jesus’ birthday and have fun with family and play in the snow also make snowmane plus make a snowball. McKenna Is a time to be whith my family, my aunt and uncle, and my Grandma and Grandpa. We leave cookies and milk for santa and I decorate my room. Paige What Christmas means to be: Jesus’ birthday and spending time with my family, Santa coming, Playing in
the snow and decorate the tree with lights.
Kaden Christmas means to me a time to spend with my family and cousins and aunts. We celebrate Baby Jesus’ birthday with ballons and a cake. We put on party hats and sing happy birthday. Zach What Christmas means to me: Jesus’ birthday and spending time with my family and drinking hot cocoa and decorating the tree with ornaments. Lucas On Christmas Eve we open one present. and decorate a tree.
Season Greetings
To our friends and members, we extend our sincerest wishes for a happy holiday season. Thank you for your patronage and support during this past year.
Emma Christmas means to me a time I can spend time with my friends and family. My family gives to the poor. Mary Claire Christmas Means to me: getting along with my family and to show that Jesus bled for us and died.
Caden T. Is celebrating Jesus’ birthday and spending time with my famlly. I also get to go out side and build snomen and snow angels the I get to go inside to drink hot cocoa. Evan Yu Christmas means to me a time I get to spend time with my family and celebrate Jesus’ birthday and opening presents. I have things to do also I decorate the tree, I make presents, and I drink hot cocoa. I also eat turkey. If it snows, I will throw a snowball at my cousin.
Jorden Davis I think Christmas is fun. I also like my prantnts. I like Christmas so we can spind time with my faily. Avalyn Sexton Christmas is a time of love and joy and happynees for evryone in the world. It’s a time to go out with you’r family. Emma Christmas means to me that it’s a special year to me because its Jesuses birthday. I also love that I get to spend time with my family. I also love that its just a speicl time of the year. It also means to me about getting and carling. Cooper Plunkett What Christmas means to me baby Jesuses birthday he was born and put in a mager.
LOUISE DURHAM ELEMENTARY
Lexi Bradley Christmas means to me when Baby Jesus was born that is what Christmas means to me.
Mrs. Williams’ Class: Patrick Speding time with my faly and sellvprateing Jesus burthday an Christmas. I like to do that allso but most of all I like to Read the bible. Christmas is not about opening presents or stuffing my self with food but its about caring about echvther a reading the Bible a selprating Jesus burthday.
Rylie Bentley Christmas means celiberating Jesuse Christ Birthday. Christmas also means spending time with Loved ones. To me it also means being thankful for what I have. It also means being happy and sweat. It also mean showing you care. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all our customers & friends! David & Tawana Gilbert & THE GILBERT HARDROCK DRILLING CREW.
309 S. MORROW, MENA • 479-394-3650
,WVÂź\ NWZOM\ \PM ZMI[WV NWZ \PM [MI[WV
\P IVL /QTTPIU 5MVI ): Π! !
Page 18
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 17, 2014
“What Christmas means to me.. ” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 Ainsley Christmas means to me is I git to spind time with my famley. I love Christmas becus I git to go to my naneys hasy. I love Christmas becus suant closhy cums and viits me and gives me prasit. Kinley Hall To me Christmas is about celebrating baby Jesus Birthday. I like playing in the snow. I love spending time with my family, and Watching Christmas Movies. John Christmas is the time of year that you get gifts. It is also a day that you also get to spend time with your family and friend’s. And it is Juses’s Birthday. Autumn L. What Christmas means to me Baby Jesuses Birthday he was born and was put in a manger. I love Christmas beacause it is fun to count down to Christmas and open presents on Christmas. I love Christmas! Amanda Tolbert Christmas means that you can get a lot of presents. And more stuf. And you can get everything that you get. Jaden I will see my Famlly and My frands and my dog to. Melanie Christmas mean to me a time when we shaire with uthrs. And we shud shair with peple wah don’t have thigs. I love Christmas becuse I get to go to hoy nony hose for three wole bays and mouk hose. Dakurshuh and poulhte.
Rhett Brotherton Christmas means I get to spend time with my famlly. I get to open presns with my cusens and frens and famlly. Kolbi Spining time with my family. Having presints with my mom. And dad and sisters and brothers. And cusens and granmal. Mrs. Miller’s Class: Madison Is love, family, it is pretty. Love for my teachers Brakiah Burk A time to worship God and Jesus. Also to sellebrate Jesuses birthday. It is also to see what your parents have got you for Christmas presents and to sing Christmas songs like jingle bells roodalh the red nosed reindeer and to go coaroling in a sleigh. Adrian Christmas means to me to rember Jesus on his birthday on December, 25. It is not all about the presints. It’s all about speding time with your famle. Cory Christmas means to me helping utherz fill
Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce
The Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce would like to take this opportunity to say MERRY CHRISTMAS & THANK YOU to the community for your support throughout the year! As we reflect upon the year of 2014 it has been a very productive time and would not have been possible without your help! We look forward to an even better year, next year, and hope you and others will continue the journey with us!
Executive Director - Paula Bailey Your Chamber Board of Directors: Chris Benner - President; Cindy Long - Vice-President; LeAnn Dilbeck - Secretary; Jennifer Maechler - Treasurer; Tammy Young, Lou Longoria, Katrina Rowe, Tim Bowen, Brian Bowser, Debra Buschman, Brion Dickerson, and Telissa Montgomery.
524 Sherwood Ave., Mena 479-394-2912 www.menapolkchamber.com
better evey chrstmas day. Evey win you are bad God sill remember you no muatr wiht. And be wiht my family and feird. Tonita Turjillo Love and when Jesus was born.
Micah It meane to me that I whit I whil do whith my life. Eli To make the world the happys place on earth. Janey Christmas means Jesuss birth and shend time with your family. Devin Christmas means to me it is the time we sholb beleve.
Clara That you git to-gether with yor frints and family and bringing care for uthes! And giving Christmas chers! Andrew Schnell Christmas means to me spend with family and parents and borther and sister and causens and friend and Mrs. Miller and other teachers. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
Merry Christmas to all, And To All a Good Night!”
Alexis Christmas means to me is selubrating Jeus brith. Elijah Christmas means to me makenig peple happy. Raegan Christmas to me is a time to be happy because Jesus was born and he died on the cross for us. Katelynn Christmas means to me to selbrat Jese and my family and to selbeat God. Cody Spiding time with mom and dad. Remembering god. Family gathing aurod.
Many thanks to all our customers. We look forward to serving you in the upcoming year.
Jeff, Phyllis, Linda, Greg, and Travis
Jeff’s Collision Center 711 Petros Ave. • Mena, AR 71953
(479) 394-2141
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Wishing You Every Happiness Now And Through The New Year. From all of us at
Nidec Motor Corporation 500 North Morrow Street Mena, AR 71953 479-394-1650
Page 19
The Greatest Story Ever Told Page 20
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
GOSPEL OF LUKE 2:1-20
Closing at 3 pm Christmas Eve Closed Christmas Day
Merry Christmas
from all the gang at
December 17, 2014
December 17, 2014
1 Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. 2 This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, 5 in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. 6 While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
will be for all the people; 11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” 15 When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. 17 When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.
With best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!
Thank you
to all our loyal customers!
Arkansas Valley Insurance Agency
wishes a very Merry Christmas to all. 409 Hwy. 71 N, Mena • 479-394-5550
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Page 21
P.O. Box 590 1402 Hwy. 71 South, Mena, AR 71953 479-394-6131
Gordon McDonald, D.V.M., Ann Hatley, D.V.M., Crystal Garner, D.V.M., and Staff 3112 Highway 71 S • Mena • (479) 243-9200 • Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
From our family to yours... MON. - 11AM-8:30PM • CLOSED TUES. • WED. & THURS. - 11AM-8:30PM FRI. & SAT. - 11AM-9:30PM • SUN. - ORDER OFF MENU ALL DAY - 11AM-8PM
ON THE CORNER OF SHERWOOD AND SEVENTH STREET • 479-437-3240
& Happy New Year!
Open Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day
Page 22
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 17, 2014
“What Christmas means to me.. ” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 Mason Is spinding time whith my femley and frens and giveing gifts to other. Harmoney I licke Christmas be ckus Christmas I git to be with am family! Ms. Medford’s Class: Jason Christmas is the favorite year. and it is my favorite time of holiday. Raeann What Christmas means to me Christmas means about god I belive in Jesus and my brothers and my mom and my Aunt Angie. Dayven Breeden Christmas to me love santa breangs a lot toys that what means to me. Gia I love Christmas. It is fun beycus I get to be with my family. It is a specol time uf yaer. Augustine Frost I love Christmas becaus it is Jesus birthday. I love Christmas becaus we get to gather as a family. Genica Christmas is a filing of love and peace win the black peple wer slave thay bib not now Christmas was
giving time to think about love onw. Boden I love momey and dadey and god and santa.
Judah Hogan Christmas means to me for everey one to celebrate. Christmas is Jesus’s birthday. It is the most funest holiday of the year. You can spend the whole day with your family. Braxton Toys, snow, God, famiy, jesus, angels. Kaielor It means family, moms, dads, friends, cousins, santa, raindeer, God, Jesus, and myself. Kalib Santa, presents, my family, snow, Gods birthday! Dressing warm. Brooklyn Christmas means love a joy and Famliy and Franieds and sitssters and cusers and 4 teachers and cats and dogs and gods birthday. Dallas Christmas means joy and happyness and it means your family and some times it means to celebrate the holidays what Christmas means to me is that you can get presents and you always have love with you in your heart. Gracie Prays God, think win he dide on the cross
for us, win he was born on Christmas, spinding time with each other, haveing fun with eachother, celebrate every holeday that you sellebrate, play with friends, celebrate with friends. Jacqueline It is win you get to be whith your family. You get to fill other felens. You celebrate Jesus birthday. It is win you get to have fun and eat. Being whith your friends. Brooklyn L What Christmas means to me is to blive in santa be nice and belive in Jesus and famaliy and frind’s and Grandma’s and Gratpak ans celebrate and spin time with your famliy ever day you can like we do.
Amelia I think its about family’s get to gever It’s to have lots and los of fun. Celebrate to god
and pray to god. To celebrate whith joy! I bring joy to god beith day. Elizabeth Christmas is about Jesus not about prast, Jesus means you spend time to be with your family and celebtrate with your family. You can celebrate with sick pipple caus they will get beter faster they don’t get beter with no love but if you geve love they will get beter fast. Love is with joy.
Mrs. Smallwood’s Class: Dillon Christmas means to me like Jesus comes and takes me up to heaven. The most thing I love about Christmas is Jesuses birthday. I love Christmas because we get presents. CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 23
“What Christmas means to me.. ” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 Destiny The most inportint thing to me on Christmas is Jususe’s Birthday. And I don’t think that the present’s are inportint oley some times but it is also a cheerful time of year of all and it is also a time of year when we furgive and care for each other. Troy Christmas means to me it meant to smpnd tim with your femly. Dakota Gods bath day and Christmas Cheer. Tara We deckrat the Christmas tree and spand a littl time with my famiy playen in the snow with your DaD or Mom and deckrat your house open your parints.
Taliyah Borin Is that it is Jeues brithday. It means to me that he died on the cross for our sin. It means to me that it is all about Jeues. It means that god did everything for us. It means to me that Chrimas is asome. Nathan Christmas means to me for loveing your famy and forgiveing for other and haveing fun. It means selberateing Jueasus Brthday and opening prenst’s. Mckenzie Christmas is a halleday to me it is abaot, Jeesesu berthe. And decradening the tree. Billding you a fiyer to cepe you warm. Zoie Rupe Christmas means to me becauze of Jesus
I saw Granny Kissing Santa Claus…
Merry Christmas from George and Rosie Davis
birth. And I like Sants becauze he give us presents. And my elf on the shelf. And my mom and dad.
Camerin Christ means means to me a lot becuz I spen time with my mom and my dad. And it is fun. And we can open prazen. And we can look in our stoting and find cande and the prazen are big and small. Dylan Whitehead County means santa gives presints and I at u will giv yuw a lot of presinss ant u luves all of us and so wel uve santa and if your bad he will giv yuw 1 presint. Tori Weidler What Christmas means is all about God and hes only sune. Its not about gifts. P.s. if or node yall get a pare of undreware. Emily About God and Jesuse and a nice famly and good food but most of all life and our freedum.
Tucker I get presents and I can give santa cecies and put decarieshones and puting up the chrismas tree. Kaleb Christmas is about Juses. Jair It means to spend time with mom and dad. It is not ubat gifts it is abat god and his sure. Myranda Christmas means to me that you should be nice to each other when you lonly. Be thank tool to each other. Alex Christmas means Jesus that’s what Christmas means to me. And Christmas is Jesus’s birthday! I love Christmas is the best day of the year.
Jackson Wen it is time for chrimas I am happy. Becas it is Gods barthy. I alwas wonder wen it is gods barthy wat happens in hevin. Jacie It means to spend time with my family. And decertate the tree. Oh and baking cookies. Having fun and being thankful.
From your friends and family at the
Mrs. Maddox Class: Allie Free Christmas is not just about presents it is abut God’s birthday. My family gets to together and open presents. I get to see a lot of my family. I am glad that Christmas is real. I am glad that I get to open presnts with my falmy. I am glad Santa is real. I get to spend Christmas with my falmy. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
Beasley-Wood Funeral Home
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Page 24
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 17, 2014
“What Christmas means to me.. ” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 Nick Williams What Christmas means to me is Joy and Jolly and Jesus and presents and God. Lily Rowland It means to me I get to go to my friends house and get to go to O.M.M.A., go to see Santa Cluse at Walmart, and go home. And the next day I have presents. I will be happy and play with thim. S e a n Sullivan Toys and wiis and games and Christmas tree and Jesus’s birthday is Christmas Happy holidays.
Clay McMellon Toys. Christmas tree. Jesus’s birthday. Christmas food. Charley Mishler Christmas means to me so much because I can deckrote the Christmas tree. I get presents to and it is so special.
Olivia Latham Christmas is a time we should all believe in our hearts and everywhere. And care for our loved ones every single day of our lives. And care for people that are very sick. And care for our friends and family. Christmas is not all about the presents. Its about what’s inside that counts. Yennyte Tecson What Christmas means to me is that I spend time with my family and open presents with my family and celebrate Jesus birthday.
Haydyn Wells Christmas is when families get together and magic happens.
for sharing, careing. It is for love and joy. It means a lot about my family. Jolina Butterfield I like Christmas because I get to spend time with my family. Sunshine, Acelynn, Mom, Dad and Emma.
Lorelei McQuade Christmas to me, is when you spend time with your family all together. Beau Vaughn Its about Santa and Christmas trees and presents and toy in there and Rain Deer. Sammantha Brischke To me it means spending time with my family and my pets. Also having a lot of fun with my family and friends. Christmas to me also means giving to other people. Isabel Cross It means giving not takeing away. Christmas is what people care about. It’s
Evan Leonard Christmas is the best because we got the best present an it was God. God gave us the best present and it was him. Jordan Wagner It means to me that when Jesus was born on Christmas. I think that is awesome that Jesus was born on Christmas and it was a mircal for all of us and Mary got to have Jesus. And it is so, so, so awesome to have Jesus, God’s son inour life’s. CONTINUED ON PAGE 25
Holiday Blessings WISHING YOU
EVERY HAPPINESS NOW AND THROUGH THE NEW YEAR. Bob & Wendy Martin; Ashley & Scott Vacca; Erick & Charmaine Martin.
Sterling Machinery Co., Inc. | 104 Port Arthur | Mena No Place Like Home | 507 DeQueen St. | Mena
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 25
“What Christmas means to me.. ” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Jackson Howard Christmas means to give something to someone like a present or a toy. Reese Montgomery To me Christmas means to be with your family and giving and God. Adee Gray Chrismas is asking boys and girls. I love Christmas. And Christmas is good. And I will get toys. The good thing is I have a elf on the shelf. J D Murphy A time when we get together and presents, to love family. Mrs. Castor’s Class: Lauren I love Christmas becase I love Jeses. I love my family, and presents, and friends. I love decorations, and angels, and teachers, and love, and birth, and cloths, and bookes, and celrate, and pichers, and
casens, and chilgrin, and urth, and food, and planits, and Christmas, and bay of the month, and trees, and candeay, and colors, and rods, and car, and trucks, and water, and tocking and people, and shoes, and hear, and drinks, and pintle, and ipades, and names. Dani Gibbs What Christmas means to me. Jesus birthday friends my family presents the earth. Colton It gifts, sing, Jesus birth, friends, decorations Catie I love presents. I love family. I love friends. I love God. I love celebrate. I love food. I love Gesus birthday. I love books. I love clothes. I love bords. I love parsols.
We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! Christmas Eve - Closing at 8pm Christmas Day - CLOSED Re-open at 5am December 26 THE MENA
SUPERCENTER 67 • 600 Hwy. 71 N
Elijah Christmas is all that means to me is celebrating Cristmas and getting presents and being good having cookies and hot choclate and God and Jesuses birthday and angels birthdays. Michael It means to me my family and God, cousisns, my friends, my crist, Jesus, my teacher, the bearcutj Jesus is birthday. Bracee It menas a lot to me. I is Jesus’s birthday. I can spend time with my family. We can decorate our stuff. Every year we go Christmas Carling. Cooper Hayes It’s all abut Jesus is birthday. Kaylee Smith I love my family, angles, Jesus and
friends, god, gifts, decorations!! Briannon Martin I like to spin time with my family. I like Jesus. I like to celebrate Christmas. I like my techer. I love Christmas.
Abigail Christmas means to me is it’s all about me and my family speads time together and cookies, hot chochlate and celebrating Jesus’s Birth on Christmas Eve. Mitchell I like Christmas because you can spend time wife yure famle! I like to celebrate Christmas. I like Choclet. And I git presents. Jeannette Kyle Presents, famly, decorations, angels, chochlates. Aurdra Frenids and family and Mr. Hooper he is the best sub and Christmas. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
Mena Regional Health System would like to wish you and your family a very
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year filled with good health and happiness!
wishes you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2015!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOYALTY SINCE 1911!
MORE OF EVERYTHING! 394-2244
Page 26
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 17, 2014
“What Christmas means to me.. ” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25 Karley Jesuses birth. And spinding time with your family and friends and giving to others. Alexis It’s mostley about spending time with your family and friends but mostley about Jesuses birthday. Bailey Heald It means to me is love from Jesus because he died on the cross for our sin. WICKES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Mrs. Maricela’s Class: Jack That when Joseve was asleep the angeln came out and said Joseve and Merry would have a baby when the baby came out the world was good. Matthew Christmas is a holiday to celebrate Jesus birthday. It’s about giving. You can get a chance to prove that you are good. I love Christmas you get presents from Santa. I love Christmas Eve! Stephanie Linker Giving, being thankful for what they give you and for what you give them and being nice.
Santiago Maya Is Jesus birthday and time to spend with the family. A time to be thankful and kind to each other. I give a present. Happy Birthday Jesus!
Sharis Campuzano Having time with my family. Jesus’s birthday in God. We have a God in Earth it is Jesus’s dad. Giving presents to eac other. A time to be thankful and kind to each other. Maria Perez Jesus’s birthday. We have a God in Earth it is Jesus’s dad. When Jesus was born. Giving presents to each other. A time to be thankful and kind to each other. Evin Frachiseur GOD and Jesus presents, getting and giveing. Spending time with your family. River Davis Giving thanks to God and spending time with my family and God. A time to be thankfull and kind to each other. Nahomi Ruiz Have a better life. Family time. Thankful for my family. I am thankful for over newborn king. Spend more time with my family. Happy that God is alwas with me. I am thankful to go to school. I am thankful for the best teacher ever. Joyce Antunez We celebrate Jesus’s birthday. And get time whith my family. But we get presents.
And we give people presents. Merry Chirstmas!
anthor, giving present, eat, having fun and the best Christmas.
Sabera I am thankful fo God’s birthday. I like giveing presents and spending time with my family. God thats what Christmas means to me. God is my favorite. I love God and Jesus and Mary.
Ms. Erika Duggan’s Class:
Giovana Gonzalez God and Jesus is our father and they love us. Some people love Jesus. Sometimes my family and I spend time play when it is Christmas. Sometimes my mom wakes me up when she can not open the door. Christmas is Jesus’s birthday. Parker We have a God in Earth it is Jesus’s dad. Spending time with your family and its Jesus’s birth on Christmas Eve. He risked his life over us on the cross and God and Jesus were still living and a time to be thankful. We love God and Jesus. Gustavo Jesue’s birthday. Giving something to
Cooper Price Christmas is a very special time of the year. I like presents because I like to open them, I love my family because on Christmas I get to eat with my family. I like Christmas because no school for two weeks. I love Christmas. Sydney Wilson Christmas is a special time of the year. I love building snow men in the snow. I love opening presents in Christmas Eve. At church whin it is Christmas, we celebrat Jesus’ birthday. This is how I celebrat Christmas. Ismael Medina Christmas means love to me. There’s no school for 2 weeks. I will go to my cousin house to open presents. I selubrat baby Jesus. I love Christmas. CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
Praise God to us a Child is born; His name is “Emmanuel” We are so very grateful and thankful for our Savior, Jesus. We at J & N Dozer, LLC would like to Thank each of you, Our Customers. You have entrusted us with your projects and future dreams, Jim, Randy and myself are grateful for the opportunity to have helped complete those projects. We look forward to working with you next year and God willing many to come. We give God all the glory and honor to our continued blessings and pray each of you is blessed equally.
2642 Hwy. 71 N, Mena AR • 479-243-9494
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year
We will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 24th and Thursday, Dec. 25th.
From J & N Dozer, LLC Jim & Naneha (Nan) Lee & Randy Egger
Gilchrist Tractor Inc.
Y
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 27
our hometown bank extends to you the warmest of holiday wishes and a heartfelt thank you for your continued business and friendship. May the warmth of this magical season fill your homes and businesses with love, peace and joy. We look forward to serving you in 2015.
LOAN ADMINISTRATION
Joyce Rogers, Laura Clark, Lesia Meredith, Heather Farley, Erin Stepp, Chystal Mos, Allie Kilsby, Heather Grenier, Shawna Powell, Shelby Boast. (Not Pictured: Linda Lance, Anna Buckley)
LOAN OFFICERS & FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Michael Myers, Phillip Hensley, Kyle Cannon, Sarah Curry, Jason Sullivan, Heather Risley, Tim Rodgers, Patty Young, Brian Hensley, Kevin Williams.
ACCOUNT SERVICES
Sheryl Barfield, Pilar Fowler, Kevin Sweeney, Janee Sweeney, Adelfa Harris, Joyce Watkins. (Not Pictured: Teresa Bates, Jean Quinn, Donna Fryer)
WICKES BRANCH
Kellie Warren, Kyle Cannon, Ruby Abarca, Shanea Floyd, Twila Wilson, Nancy Wilson.
TELLER LINE
Marus Herod, Melinda Howell, Shelly Harvey, Jeannine Terrell, Lana White, Jewlea Romine, Katie Titsworth, Joyce Hoover. (Not Pictured: Carla Lein)
HATFIELD BRANCH
NEW ACCOUNTS & MARKETING
Nina Baker, Aloma Gilbert, Kathy Beck, Carolyn Jewell, and Linda Tallant.
Nina Moore, Kayla Davis, Linda Price, Holly Skiles, Cindy Long, Kerry Johnson, Misty Hubbard. (Not Pictured: Chelsea Holt)
CLOSING at 1 PM CHRISTMAS EVE
We will have normal hours on New Year’s Eve
Page 28
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
December 17, 2014
“What Christmas means to me.. ” What’s Your
I would like to take this time to thank each and every one of my clients. Thank you for your business, but most of all your friendship. Have a very Merry Christmas and blessed New Year.
Telissa Montgomery 205 N Morrow, Mena
479-394-1181 479-394-4981
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 David Ortiz Christmas means to have fun with my family. I enjoy openin, presents for fun. I worship and see Jesus on his birthday. I really do love Christmas. Jaylee Pollard Christmas means many things to me. I like to selebrate his birthday. I Like to open pres-
?
"WHAT'S YOUR PULSE?" THIS WEEK'S SPECIAL 2WEEK CHRISTMAS ISSUE WILL HAVE AREA 2ND GRADERS' RESPONSES TO WHAT CHRISTMAS MEANS TO THEM SO WE'RE PASSING THAT SAME QUESTION ALONG TO OUR READERS. WHAT DOES CHRISTMAS MEAN TO YOU?
SELECTED RESPONSES TO OUR RANDOM QUESTIONS OF THE DAY: Amanda Gale Smallwood - It mean that Jesus was born and that we get to spend time with loved ones and celebrate what the season is truly about.
Jessica Austin - Its the day the we celebrate the Birth of our Savior Jesus! Spending time with family and my church family! Favorite time of the year!
Eileen Upp - It means God's plan of salvation was about to make it's entrance into earth's time and space. Jesus is the reason for the season we celebrate.
Leah Nicole Burt - Christmas is all about Jesus our savior and being with friends and loved ones.
" L I K E " U S O N FA C E B O O K ! Alice Gilley - Celebrating Jesus' birth.
Know the headlines before they're printed...catch photos of events as they are happening...share your photos...have your voice heard in the new "What's Your Pulse?" Remember, to respond to each week's "What's Your Pulse?" you must "LIKE" us on Facebook and respond to the posted question. Selected posted responses for publication will include your name and comment in the following week's paper. Can't wait to hear from you ... our readers!
ents because I’m at mama w’s. We get together as a family diner and eat. I love Christmas!
to open my presents win it is Christmas. The best of all is Jesus’s birthday on Christmas. I love Christmas time!
Nadelyn Ruiz Christmas means family to me. We can be together. We can selbrate Christmas together. We can go evrywhere together. Christmas has a special meaning to my family and me.
Edwin Trinidad Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. I love opening presents on Christmas Eve. I love celebrating Christmas with my family. I love celebrating Jesus birthday. I love Christmas!
Marlenne Cecilio Christmas is a wonderful day. I celebrate Christmas with my family in the morning. Opening presents under the tree is my best part. I go to church and sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Christmas means all lot of love to me.
Braden Thomas Christmas means Jesus’s birthday. My family and I love Jesus and Christmas. Jesus is special and so is Christmas. Christmas is Jesus’s birthday not present day. I am happy that Christmas was made because of Jesus.
Sholeyve Campuzano Christmas is a special time of the year. We do not have school because it snows. I get
Heidi Turnbough Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. I love opening presents! Being out of school for two weeks is fun. Being with my family is
great. Christmas is my favorite time of the year. Kyndra Andrews Christmas means Jesus, presents, and family. It is Jesuses birthday on Christmas. I love to open my presents, Spending time with famiy is one of the best things ever on Christmas. Christmas is my favorite holiday. Kevin Aguilar Christmas means salebrating Jesus birthday. I can go to church to salebrating Jesus’ birthday. Jesus’ birthday is good. Jesus is strong. Christmas is special to me. Tallen Richardson Christmas means a lot to me. Christmas means spending time with my family. Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. Christmas means I don’t have to go to school. I like Christmas.
From our family to yours, we wish you a
Merry Christmas. Limetree Restaurant
804 Hwy 71 North | Mena | 479-394-4702
479.437.3199 2656 Hwy 71 N, Mena sweetpeasphotos.com
¹)V IVOMT WN \PM 4WZL IXXMIZML \W \PMU IVL \PM OTWZa WN \PM 4WZL [PWVM IZW]VL \PMU IVL \PMa _MZM \MZZQNQML *]\ \PM IVOMT [IQL \W \PMU ¹,W VW\ JM INZIQL 1 JZQVO aW] OWWL VM_[ \PI\ _QTT KI][M OZMI\ RWa NWZ ITT \PM XMWXTM º 4]SM "!
December 17, 2014
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Page 29
This past year has been full of growth and exciting changes here at The Pulse! None, of which, would have been possible with out the continued loyal support of our readers and our advertisers! We are so grateful to be in this community and for God's favor that he has continued to show our business! It is a privilege to do what we love in a place we are proud to call home! From our entire family to yours, we want to wish you the merriest of holiday seasons. We hope you will join us in remembering the Reason for this blessed Season - Emmanuel! He came to pay a debt He didn't owe because we owed a debt we couldn’t pay.
Merry Christmas!
David, LeAnn, Dustin and Lexi Faith Dilbeck Emmye Rowell, Cynde Hampton, Ilana Burk, Melanie Buck, Beryl & Julie Renouf, Dan & Linda Deramus, Brenda Accardo, Jaclyn Rose, Michael Reisig, Norm Betz, Don Kelley, Brandon Burk, Johnathan Burgess, Bethany Folkes, Todd Aynes, Clint Montgomery, Jason Wood, Nathaniel and Vanessa Martin, and Ananda Martin
May your homes be filled with all of the warmth and joy that this Season brings!
Page 30
SPORTS
December 17, 2014
Weekly Publication
Bearcats
CONT. FROM PAGE 9
Warren’s Cox scored twice more in the second quarter to account for all the Lumberjacks scoring in the first half. Cox rushed in from two-yards out and one-yard out for the scores. Senior Brady Davis picked up a first down on a 17-yard completion from Kesterson on Mena’s third drive. It too, ended with a punt. The Bearcats most productive drive of the first half was their last one that went for 42 yards on seven plays and included a pair of first downs and ended on the Warren 38-yard line as time expired in the half. Daugherty picked up 29 yards for the one, while Davis rushed 11 yards for the other. Kesterson’s last three passes of the quarter fell incomplete. Warren led 21-0 at the half and picked up 14 first downs to Mena’s five first downs. The Lumberjacks rushed 25 times for 154 yards, while the Bearcats rushed 13 times for 62 yards in the first half. Kesterson completed eight-of-16 for 59 yards, while Warren’s Justin Gorman completed 10-of-13 for 120 yards. Neither team turned the ball over in the first 24 minutes, Mena had two penalties for 25 yards, while Warren was flagged once for 11 yards. Three out of the four Bearcats possessions in the third quarter ended in turnovers. Kesterson was intercepted twice and was sacked and fumbled once. The Lumberjacks turned two of the three into points and with 5:16 to play in the third quarter invoked the mercy clock rule, leading 35-0. Kesterson did complete a screen pass to Davis for a 12-yard gain and a first down in the quarter. Warren picked up five first downs to Mena’s two in the third. The Lumberjacks ran the ball 10 times for 46 yards, while the Bearcats rushed four times for four yards. Warren completed six-of-seven passes for 69 yards, while Kesterson completed three-of-nine for five yards and two interceptions. Warren had 17 plays for 115 yards in the quarter, while Mena had 13 plays for a total of nine yards. CONCLUSION ON PAGE 31
t a g n a g e h t l l a From James & 7am- 6pm - Christmas Eve • CLOSED Christmas Day
Page 31
CONT. FROM PAGE 30
The Bearcats started off their first possession of the fourth quarter on the Lumberjacks 41-yard line after a three-yard punt by Warren. Mena drove 41-yards on four plays to put their first points of the game on the board with 9:06 to play in the contest. Davis sprinted 25 yards on the first play of the drive and then Kesterson connected on a pair of passes to Ozanich and senior Luke Bowser. Ozanich’s was for a seven-yard gain, while Bowser’s four yard grab was good for the Bearcats first touchdown. Junior Justin Godfrey split the uprights and Mena trailed Warren, 35-7. Warren answered with a seven-play 52-yard TD drive to put the Lumberjacks up 42-7 with 5:51 to play in the game. Two plays later, the Bearcats answered with a TD of their own. Kesterson kick-started the two-play 61-yard drive with a 28-yard scamper over the left side of the line. Kesterson then completed a 33-yard pass to Castor who found paydirt. Godfrey added the PAT and Mena trailed Warren 42-14 with 5:10 remaining in the contest. Warren added another TD on their next drive, a six-play 33-yard drive after a failed Mena onsides kick. The Lumberjacks increased their lead to 48-14 with 1:43 to play. Kesterson completed a five-yard pass to Ozanich and then junior Heath Schnell picked up 16-yards on his first and only carry of the contest. The final play of the game featured a Kesterson 18-yard completion to Castor as time expired. Mena fell to Warren, 48-14. Junior D’Wayn Grinder was selected to receive the Brandon Burlsworth Award for his outstanding defensive play during the State Championship. Grinder finished the game with 14 tackles, including six solo tackles. Grinder finished the season with a total of 128 tackles and two interceptions.
As 2014 winds to a close, we want to express our sincere appreciation to all we have had the opportunity to serve our first year in business. We are genuinely grateful for your patronage. At this very blessed time of year, we hope you pause to reflect on the true Reason for the Season! From the Dilbeck Family to yours, we want to wish you a very Merry Christmas!
We look forward to serving you in 2015!
Lady Eagles Named Champions of Redwater Tourney
The Cossatot River Lady Eagles recently won the Redwater, Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament. Players are: (front row) Kara Richardson, Stacy Wilcher, Reagan Richardson, Saybra Richardson, and Alanna Craft; (back row) Coach Lakyn Cowart, Hope Lyle, Megan Andrews, Ally Hoyle, Kylie Tadlock, Caylee Stuart, Kim Zarate, and Coach Tyler Timms.
Lady Tigers Named Champs of Booneville Tournament The Acorn Lady Tigers Basketball Team claimed first place in the Booneville Tournament on December 6. Players are: Tara Warrington, Harley Dearing, Adrianna Howard, Jessica Looney, Ashley Long, Misty Oglesby, Brittany Willhite, Macie Adams, Teagan Vann, Shayla Vaught, Taylor Deramus, Brooke Bates, Ashton Shores, Morgan Fagan. The girls are coached by Mike Jackson. Jessica Looney, Adrianna Howard, and Teagan Vann were selected as All-Tournament Players.
Merry Full ATV Service & Repair
Hwy 71N/Hwy 88E Junction (Behind Terminix) 479-216-3519 OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY
Holiday Hours: Christmas Eve - Close at 6 pm CLOSED Christmas Day!
Christmas
(479) 394-6521 • www.papasmena.com
SPORTS
Bearcats
December 17, 2014
Weekly Publication
Page 32
Thursday, 12/18 * 11:30 a.m. – Rotary Club of Polk County/Mena meets at Papa’s Mexican Café. Contact Lisa Martin at 2163383 or Charles Pitman at 216-4882 for more info. * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters In Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 2160719. * 5:30 p.m. – Polk County Cancer Support Group monthly meeting at Union Bank Community Room * 5:30 p.m. - Weight Watchers - meet at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church Family Life Center. Call 479234-2297 for more information. * 6:30 p.m. – Board Camp Fire Dept meeting. Elections will be held, reports given
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS
and new topics discussed. Refreshments follow the meeting. The Community is invited. Training will end the evening. For more information, call 394-5909 * 6:30 p.m. Mena Community Chorus will be practicing for their Christmas Program, First United Methodist Church; 9th and Port Arthur Sts. For more information, call Vicki at 479-2341109. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous – meeting at Saint Agnes Church in the basement. * 7:00 p.m. – Polk County Genealogy Society meeting at the Polk County Library, 410 8th Street. * 7:00 p.m. – Al-Anon – a support group for anyone affected by someone else’s drinking, meets at the First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur, Mena. Call Dotty at 479-4373111 or Sarah 479-234-3620 for more information. Friday, 12/19 * 1:00 –3:00 p.m. – Fiber Group will meet a Mena Art Gallery, 607 Mena Street. Come and bring your project and join this group working with a variety of fibers. * 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Writer’s Guild meeting at Mena Art Gallery in the classroom, 607 Mena Street. * 7:00 p.m. – “God’s Not Dead” movie, Northside Church of Christ, 2009 Hwy 71 N., Mena, Everyone is invited. * 7:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting - 812 Hwy 71 South, Mena * 8:00p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous - meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71S, Mena, For info call, 394-7396 or 234-5419. Saturday, 12/20 * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo at American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 6:30 p.m. – Christmas Party at Big Fork Community Center. Everyone is invited. There will be an adult gift exchange, finger foods, and Santa will give gifts that the parents provide for their own kids. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena, For info, call 394-7396 or 234-
5419. Sunday, 12/21 * 10:00 a.m. – Mena First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir Program - “Lessons and Carols.” * 2:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S. For information call 394-7396 or 234-5419. * 6:30 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous meeting at Saint Agnes Church in the basement. Monday, 12/22 * 5:00 p.m. – Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), Hatfield City Hall. For more information call 870-3896678. * 6:00 p.m. – PCVO Bingo, American Legion Building, Hwy 71 N., Acorn. * 6:00 p.m. – FREE Weightloss Warriors – First National Bank across from Depot. For information call 4373560. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 6:30 p.m. – Boy Scouts of America Troop 92 meets at First United Methodist Church, Everyone is welcome to attend. * 7:00 p.m. – Home Front Warriors CMA Chapter 377 monthly meeting at the Lime Tree Restaurant, Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – 12 +12 Study at ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 2345419. Tuesday, 12/23 * 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Polk County Family Mission will be open in the 9th Street Ministries building. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. –“Art Day”, Mena Art gallery, 607 Mena Street. Come join other artists, from beginners to pros, working on their individual projects in the gallery classroom. For more information, call 479-394-3880. * 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – FREE Delicious Lunch at Vegetarian Soup Kitchen, Mena Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 149 Polk Rd 43 (Fairground Road), Mena, 479-394-7404. Take – out is available. All are welcome! * 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Son Lighters in Action Card Shop, 3671 Hwy 8 West. For more information, call 216-0719. * 5:15 p.m. – Cyclists and Walkers:
Weekly Publication
* WE THE PEOPLE TEA PARTY will not meet this month. Next Meeting will be January 15, 2015.
BEATS
CALENDAR
December 17, 2014
* MENA HEAD START is taking applications for preschool Children 3-5 and Earl Head Start Children, birth – 3. The program is free to those who qualify. For an application come by Mena Head Start at 606 Pine Avenue, 8:00-3:00 Monday thru Friday. For more information call 479-437-3733. * THROUGH DECEMBER 30, view the Gift of Christmas Show at the Mena Art Gallery. The show includes painting, photography and three-dimensional work. Gallery hours are Tuesday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Ouachita Cycling Club meets at the Visitor’s Information Center on Earthquake Ridge. Please come join us. Everyone is welcome. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S, Mena. * 8:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous, First United Methodist Church, 9th & Port Arthur. For information 479-234-2887 or 479-234-3043. Wednesday 12/24 * 6:00 p.m. – Christmas Eve Candlelight Open Communion Service, Mena First United Methodist Church. * 6:00 p.m. – Narcotics Anonymous Meeting, 812 Hwy 71 S., Mena. * 7:00 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous – Book Study, ABC Club across from Chopping Block, 1159 Hwy 71 S., Mena. For information call 394-7396 or 234-5419.
Page 33
Weekly Publication
December 17, 2014
SCHOOL
Youth Hunt Pictures Continue Pouring In
Clay Davis, 10-years-old, 8 Point, in Howard County
Cody Short, 7-years-old, Button Buck, in Big Fork
Gracie Hill, 13 yr old daughter of David and Raychel Hill
Jake Short, 11-years-old, 9 point, in Big Fork
Connor Davis, 6-years-old, Spike, in Howard County
Dani Gibbs, age 7, first deer, Howard County
McMellon Construction Backhoe & Dump Truck Service • Fill Dirt • Gravel • Water & Electric Lines Dozer Service • Septic Tank Installation & Repairs • Demolition
ALL TYPES OF CONCRETE WORK: House & Shop Pads, Driveways, Sidewalks, etc.
Most Credit Cards Accepted!
Page 34
HOME AND GARDEN
December 17, 2014
Walking: A Gift to Yourself
Weekly Publication
ARTS
By Kim Hughes, County Agent -FCS December is the time of year when we think about giving gifts to family, friends and special people in our lives. During the holiday season, specially, there seems to be an abundance of food and a lack of time. We indulge a little but know we are just adding calories, whether from cookies and candies made for loved ones, or the extra treats brought to the office. Sometimes, with all the stress of making holidays special for other people, we forget to take time for ourselves and make sure we have given ourselves a gift. This year, give yourself the gift of good health. Do some walking every day. The many benefits of walking include: • Reduced risk of coronary heart disease • Improved blood pressure and blood sugar levels • Help to maintain body weight and lowered risk of obesity • Reduced risk of osteoporosis and some cancers • Enhanced mental health • Increased concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical that can moderate the brain’s response to stress. Exercise in general also releases endorphins, which create feelings of happiness and euphoria. Regular physical activity boosts memory and ability to learn new things. Getting sweaty increases production of cells in the hippocampus that are responsible for memory and learning. Another gift to yourself might be to find a friend that can walk with you. The thought of being alone can be enough to keep some people from walking. The best way to solve this is by finding a friend to walk with on a regular basis. You can plan walking paths that are convenient for both of you, or map out routes that take you places you've never been before. It's a great way to exercise, spend time with friends, and stay accountable to your new healthy habit! Finally, give yourself the gift of clothing and shoes that will help make walking easier in all kinds of weather. Good shoes and clothes that are comfortable, yet protect you from the elements, will help you realize that you can walk in most types of weather and still be warm and dry.
OLT Names New President
The OLT board, at their October meeting, accepted Tim Hesse’s resignation from the board and presidency. Tim indicated that the reasons for resigning from the board involved personal issues, but he expressed his desire to continue as an active member. In fact, he just finished a run in Bell, Book and Candle and in Mike Martin’s production of Little Women. Upon accepting the resignation, the board voted to have Rudi Timmerman fill out Tim’s term as president. Rudi held the office of vice president prior to the former president’s resignation. Having been president in the early 90’s during the reconstruction of the theater after the 1993 tornado he should be familiar with the operation of the theatre. Furthermore, over the years Rudi has been active as both a director and actor. Many will remember his collaboration with music director Judy Kropp in the presentation of shows like: Fiddler on the Roof, Sound of Music, Oliver, and many more. As he presided over his first meeting as the current president, Timmerman listed some of the goals he will be striving to achieve. On the performance front, it will be the goal to provide the best possible theatre experience for the Mena/Polk County area. This is to be achieved by being inclusive and promoting participation by any and all members of the community. “There is a lot of talent in our area and it will be our goal to incorporate as many folks as are willing to be in our shows. After all, it is a “community” theatre,” said Timmerman. Regarding aspects of the physical appearance and utility of the theatre, much needs to be done. Recent improvements such as the enclosure of the back porch area and the construction of a storage building have helped meet some of the goals of providing a pleasant physical environment for both the public and performers. However, much more needs to be done to present a fresh neat appearance. One of the first goals is to give the theatre a thorough cleaning removing all unnecessary clutter. We will be working towards making our office suite look more professional so that it can be a place to buy tickets, rent costumes, or do any of the official theatre business required to keep it running smoothly. Ouachita Little Theater is a real asset to the community. President Timmerman and the Board of Directors will do everything possible to keep up its high standards and build on past accomplishments to make the theatre even better both in appearance and programming. More information can be found on the OLT web site, OLTMENA.COM.
PLUM VARIETIES: • ALLEGHENY • AUGUST • BEACH • BONNE DE BRY • BRIGNOLE • BROWN • CANADA • CHERRY • COMMON • CZAR • DAMASK • DATE • DRIED • GOOSE • GREEN • GROUND • HOG • JAPANESE • KIRKE BLUE • MARMALADE • MYROBALAN • PACIFIC • PERSHORE • PURPLE • RED • SIERRA • VICTORIA • VIOLET • WILD • YELLOW
• Wedding • Engagement • 1st & 100th Birthday • Anniversary 479.243.9600 • classifieds@polkcountypulse.com
Stubbs & Chaney to Wed
James Stubbs & Valerie Chaney would like to announce their upcoming wedding on December 20, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Acorn Baptist Church Friends & Family Welcome
December 17, 2014
Rackley & Stout Celebrate Wedding
FAMILY
Send us your Announcements Weekly Publication
Page 35
Chase Rackley of Fort Smith, Arkansas, formerly of Mena, and Amber Stout of Lavaca, Arkansas were married recently in a small ceremony at the bride's parents' home. Amber is the daughter of Richard and Tammy Stout of Lavaca. Chase is the son of Jimmy and Lisa Rackley of Mena, and Walt and Carol Miller of Yuba, California. Chase and Amber now reside in Van Buren, Arkansas where they are both employed as teachers at Cedarville Public School District.
POLK COUNTY BIRTHS at Mena Regional Health System
Megan and Timothy Fair, II, of Smithville, are proud parents of a baby boy, born on December 6th. Megan Shelly and Mackenzie Jones, of DeQueen, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 8th. Ashley and Randall Pochmara, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 9th.
Chelsea and Cameron Johnson, of Mena, are proud parents of a baby girl, born on December 9th.
Gift Registry
CUTEST PET PIC Hobson
Hobson loves getting read to by Cailey Stephens. He is a Goldendoodle, the granddog and she is the granddaughter of Cynde and Fred Hampton.
Please share your favorite photo of your pet. You may drop it off or mail it to: The Polk County Pulse 512 Seventh St. • Mena, AR 71953 or email: ads@polkcountypulse.com
This week’s Cutest Pet Pic made possible by your friends at:
Find the weekly sales circular and daily specials that will help you save even more at
MyPulseNews.com!
Meghan Olson & Austin McCallie 12/6/14 Amanda Jones & Delmar Krigbaum 12/6/14 Maegan Scott & Mason Toon 12/6/14 (shower)
House Warming Faith Davasher 12/4/14
Crosley Appliances & Hardware
FREE Gift Wrapping 813 Mena St. • 394-3456 Open Sun. 10-2 • 7 Days A Week
Page 36
December 17, 2014
POLICE
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.
Mena Police Department December 7, 2014 Timothy William Hooks, 29, of Mena was charged with theft-of-property (shoplifting) after a call to a local retail store and subsequent investigation. He was additionally charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. Report was taken of a missing cell phone. The phone was loaned to a friend, and it disappeared while the friend had it. Case is pending interview of suspects and witnesses. December 8, 2014 Officers took a report of someone stealing items from a local electronics retailer. Report was taken of the attempted theft of an iPad by a local youth. Case is pending. December 9, 2014 Report was taken of damage done at a local cemetery. It appeared that a vehicle had left the roadway and had struck some gravestones. Case is pending further investigation. December 10, 2014 Joseph Gonyea, 25, of Mena was charged with fleeing on foot after an incident on a local street. Subsequently charged in the incident with disorderly conduct was Jordan Leigh Dobbs, 18, also of Mena. December 11, 2014 Officers arrested an 18-year-old Mena man and charged him with possession of drug paraphernalia. He was turned over to juvenile authorities who were working with him. December 12, 2014 No criminal reports filed. December 13, 2014 A local woman reported that a vehicle had run into a rock wall around her residence. No suspects have been located. Officers completed an additional 12 reports and worked three accidents.
Polk County Sheriff’s Department December 8, 2014 Report from a Mena man of a missing 15-year-old female. The juvenile was located and returned to her parent/guardian. Report from a Mena man of being harassed by an acquaintance. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Report from complainant on Hollow Lane in Hatfield of being threatened by an acquaintance. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. Arrested was Crystal L. Davis, 30, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Comply with a Court Order. Report from Mena Regional Health System of a dog bite victim. Owner was advised to quarantine the animal for ten days. December 9, 2014 Report of a domestic disturbance on Polk 74 near the Ink community led to the arrest of Jessica M. Ellinger, 24, of Mena, on a Charge of Domestic Battery 3rd Degree. Report of a domestic disturbance on N. Eve Street in Mena. Suspect fled before officers arrived. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. December 10, 2014 Report from complainant on Peta Lane near the Board Camp community of being threatened by an acquaintance. Suspect was located and transported to Mena Regional Health System. December 11, 2014 Report from walk-in complainant of a missing wallet. Reports of hogs running loose and destroying property led to a Citation being issued to Aaron Beck, 31, of Hatfield, on a Charge of Permitting Livestock to Run at Large. Report from complainant on Polk 61 near the Big Fork community of a missing The individual later family member. returned home on their own. Report from complainant on Polk 18 near the Hatton community of an attempted break-in, causing damage to a door. December 12, 2014 Traffic stop on Highway 71 South in Hatfield led to the arrest of Robert E. Heath, 30, of Mena, on a Warrant for Failure to Appear. December 13, 2014 Report from complainant on Highway 8 West near the Rocky community of trash on their property. Investigation continues.
Report from complainant on Polk 90 near the Acorn community of unauthorized persons on their property. Investigation continues. Report from complainant on Winding Lane near the Nunley community of cattle running at large. Information has been provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for further consideration. December 14, 2014 No reports were filed. Polk County Sheriff’s Office worked one vehicle accident this week. Polk County Detention Center Jail Population: 23 Incarcerated Inmates; 12 Inmates currently on the Waiting List for a State Facility, of which 2 are currently out of
Weekly Publication
jail on a monitoring system. Archive reports MyPulseNews.com
online
Police Reports Available at MyPulseNews.com
at
Page 37
Weekly Publication
Moments from America’s History A Wonderful Life
HISTORY
IN THE NEWS One Year Ago:
December 17, 2014
BY JEFF OLSON LOCAL A favorite tradition in our home during the holidays is watching movies with strong family and seasonal themes. 1. Hot Springs Fugitives Captured in Those special moments from our family’s life and history have been important to us because they’ve conveyed and Polk County Following High Speed reinforced core Judeo-Christian and historic American values; values which my wife and I grew up with, instilled in our children, and still hold to. One of our favorites is It's A Wonderful Life. Along with the wholesome nature of the Pursuit & Bomb Threat film, it is replete with subliminal messages of enduring principles and transcendent truths which represent a rich slice 2. Officials Issue a Scam Alert of Americana and a classic portrait of hometown America. Here, I will share an abbreviated narrative of this time3. City Approves $2.5 Million 2014 less treasure. George Bailey was born and raised in Bedford Falls. His dream was to strike out on his own, travel abroad, and Budget go to college - all which he had saved enough money to do. The last thing he wanted to do was stay and continue working at the Bailey Building & Loan Association (B&L), founded by his father Peter Bailey who was the CEO. Upon Peter's death, George (the eldest of two brothers) was selected to succeed him - a job he didn't want but reluctantly accepted out of love NATIONAL and respect for his father and the needs of his community. Henry F. Potter, "The richest and meanest man in the county," 1. Obama suffers most from year of would do just about anything to acquire what he didn't own or control. The B&L was one of only a few remaining local institutions of its kind in town which had avoided Potter's powerful and greedy hand. In George's words, "this town needs this measly turmoil, poll finds 2. A Drop In Opposition To Obamacare one-horse institution if only to have some place where people can come without having to crawl to Potter." When the bank runs of the Great Depression reached Bedford Falls, Potter took strong advantage and bought several failHelps Stabilize A Struggling ing businesses, including one of the banks in town - but he couldn't buy the B&L. As George explained it in principle to his customers as they were lined up to withdraw their money: "...you're thinking of this place all wrong. As if I had the money back Presidency 3. Obama To Meet With Tech Execs To in a safe. The money's not here." He points to one person lined up, and then to others one at a time, saying, "....your money's in Joe's house....that's right next to yours....and in the Kennedy house, and Mrs. Macklin's house, and, and a hundred others. Talk NSA, Health Care You're lending them the money to build, and then they're going to pay it back to you as best they can." So, where did the money for these folks come from? George's life savings. The B&L used the common wealth of the community responsibly to reinvest back into the community because the Baileys understood that strong families and businesses were the moral and economic heart and foundation of Bedford Falls. And, when hard times arrived, the B&L (unlike other businesses) didn't rely on a bail-out from Mr. Potter (or the government) - rather they relied on their long-standing relationships within the community - and their own money. Then one Christmas Eve during a bank audit, George's absent-minded uncle lost the B&L cash reserves. In the face of possible bankruptcy and scandal and with feelings of bitterness and failure, in an act of desperation George was on the brink of committing suicide when he was preempted by a heaven-sent guardian angel named Clarence Odbody. This angel, though having not earned his wings yet, wisely and creatively revealed to George just how precious life is and how his life had positively influenced the lives of so many others. Ultimately, and through the same faith and prayers of George's family and friends which had brought Clarence, it was the community who came to George's emotional and financial rescue with donations far exceeding the B&L's needs. Among the lessons of "It's A Wonderful Life," we are reminded of the realities of good and evil, of humanity’s frailty and virtue, and of the place and importance of love, faith, humility and character. These are interwoven in the relationships within and among families which are the building block of society, and of communities with social, business, and civic institutions that are fundamental to keeping America cohesive, unified, strong, independent and free. While our movie depicts some of what a wonderful life can be, it cannot compare with the most wonderful life of all - an eternal life that is available for every one of us who place our faith, trust and acceptance in Jesus Christ. And, let's remember Clarence’s note to George in the last scene of our movie: “No man is a failure who has friends.” Indeed, what a friend we have in Jesus!
We are always on at MyPulseNews.com
Page 38
Weekly Publication
December 17, 2014
Keeping Up With ‘The Jetsons’
#MyPulseNews
#LOL
The Perfect Woman
Once upon a time, a perfect man and a perfect woman met. After a perfect courtship, they had a perfect wedding. Their life was, of course "perfect." One snowy, stormy Christmas Eve, this perfect couple was driving their perfect car (a SUV) along a winding road, when they noticed someone at the side of the road in distress. Being the perfect couple they stopped to help. There stood Santa Claus with a huge bundle of toys. Not wanting to disappoint any children on the eve of Christmas, the perfect couple loaded Santa and his toys into their vehicle. Soon they were driving along delivering the toys. Unfortunately, the driving conditions deteriorated and the perfect couple and Santa Claus had an accident. Only one of them survived the accident. Who was the survivor? The perfect woman survived. She's the only one who really existed in the first place. Everyone knows there is no Santa Claus and there is no such thing as a perfect man. So, if there is no perfect man and no Santa Claus, the perfect woman must have been driving. This explains why there was an accident.
BY MELANIE BUCK The season of gift giving has arrived. High tech gadgets seem to be at the top of most everyone’s list and there are plenty to choose from. If you’re anything like me and remember The Jetsons, you probably feel like we’re living in a sci-fi futuristic cartoon and are waiting on our Rosie the Robot to come along and make sure dinner is done and the house is spotless. You may not have to wait as long as you think. We’ve already been introduced to iRobot and now, Dyson’s 360 Eye, both vaccums that work by pushing a button and proping your feet up. The ‘Green Smart Glass’ will harness the heat from your morning coffee and store it for later use. A transparent TV is on the market. You can literally see through the panel like a window yet, when turned on, it has amazing picture quality. Room lighting has become a quite popular way to dress up one’s home, although it does create some confusion when you’re trying to figure out which switch goes to which light. Taewon Hwang has solved that problem for you with his Floor Plan Light Switch. The simple design shows you what lights you are turning off or on. Want to see what else is out there? Check out the Cicret Smart Bracelet, the Sony Eclipse that runs off of solar energy, the self sterilizing door handle, or the Eco-Cleaner, a dishwasher that converts food into compost for your plants. So, if you’re trying to find the perfect gift for that person ‘that has everything,’ use Google and search ‘newest inventions’ or ‘the most high-tech gadgets’ and I’ll bet you’ll find something they don’t have, or maybe, something you want for yourself. Until next time, may you have a Merry Christmas!
Trending Now
www.MyPulseNews.com
Across the Web
• 18-Wheeler Accident on Hwy 71 Results in Fatality • 18-Wheeler Strikes Building • Former Mena Insurance Man Sentenced for Money Laundering and Wire Fraud • Tim Harper – Living for God, Family, and Football • Bearcat Supporters Unite for a Trip to the Rock! • The Beginning of a Journey of Healing
• The ‘Xmas Jammies’ family is back with a new video • Father-son duo use a crane to move the boat they built in their backyard • Is this the most dangerous commute in the world? • Act of kindness gets new employee on Santa’s nice list • Fogpocalypse in Texas!
Page 39
December 17, 2014
Weekly Publication
UP TO 20 WORDS - $4 PER WEEK, $0.25 EACH ADDITIONAL WORD • BORDER $1 ALL CLASSIFIEDS MUST BE PREPAID. Ad deadline is 5 p.m. on Monday. Payment is due with ad. Publishing and distributing 8,000 copies weekly.
THERE WILL BE NO DECEMBER 24TH ISSUE December 31 issue:
"Reader's Choice" 2014'S TOP HEADLINES as determined by the MyPulseNews.com readership 2014 Pulse Citizen of the Year 2014 Pulse Business of the Year
we will be closed monday, december 22 through Friday, December 26. We will reopen monday, December 29.
Lots of new SURPRISES coming in 2015! Including serving you in our NEW LOCATION at 1168 Hwy 71 South beginning January 12!
For Sale: Solid Wood Espresso Console/Sofa Table with drawer and bottom shelf. In good condition. Asking $200. Call or text 479-216-3091. TFN/INH
Daniel’s Carpentry and Painting. Home repair and painting. Small to medium jobs. Also lawn and garden work. Call 870-334-2068. 1/14
Clean & Comfortable Housing since 1969, J Ray & Maria’s MH Park and TFN Rentals, Hwy 71N, Mena, 479-394-1252.
CLASSIFIEDS
December Schedule
I buy Sterling Silverware forks, knives, and spoons. May be damaged but must be marked ‘sterling.’ I buy pre-1965 U.S. Silver Coins. Top prices paid for pre-1935 U.S. Silver Dollars and also one ounce rounds and bars. Dan’s TFN Pawn, 100 Hwy 71S at 1st Street, Mena, 479-394-5515.
Need a nice present? - See these 2 LaZyboy used recliners, still comfortable with leg lift handles; new black & white club chair; Lexmark all –in-one printer with extra ink car12/17 tridges. Call 479-216-1947 J & N Dozer – Trackhoe, Backhoe, Dumptruck, Ponds, Pads, Clearing, Roads, Hauling. Rich Top Soil, Fill Dirt, Shale, Gravel. Dozer Operator Randy Egger, over 30 years experience. We TFN Appreciate your Business! Call 479-234-1357. Joe Bill Ward: Specializing in Concrete, Septic Tanks, Gravel, Backhoe, and Dump Truck 12/10 Services. Over 40 years of experience. 479-883-9298.
Humane Society of the Ouachitas
Pet of the Week for the Week of December 17, 2014 Yale is a picture purrrfect kitty! Yale is a handsome orange and white tabby cat. He is loving, curious, and loved having his portrait taken! Yale is litter box trained, current on his shots and neutered. Active, alert, attentive, adorable and if there was a Cat College…Yale would be an A plus student! Yale is ready to get directions to your house and bring fun and joy to your family. Give us a call. You’ll be glad you did! OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday through Saturday 10 AM until 2 PM 368 Polk Co. Rd. 50, Mena, AR OFFICE PHONE NUMBER:
(479) 394-5682 WEB SITE: www.hsomena.org HSO is a NO KILL Shelter HSO is not affiliated with any other local, state or national animal rescue organization. HSO is a 501(c)(3) organization and your donations are tax deductible.
Page 40
THE POLK COUNTY PULSE
Model Year-End Clearance!
‘15s soon to arrive. All ’14s must go!
December 17, 2014
2014 Chevy Sparks MSRP - $15,820 Gentry Price: $15,200
2014 Chevy Camaro LT
MSRP - $31,830 GM Rebate - $2,500 Gentry Discount - $2,557 Gentry Price: $26,773 2014 Chevy 1500 Crew Cab MSRP - $35,715 GM Rebate - $3,500 (includes 2000 trade in allowance)
Gentry Discount - $1,346 Gentry Price: $30,869
2014 Chevy Camaro Convertible MSRP - $38,985 GM Rebate - $2,500 Gentry Discount - $1,747 Gentry Price: $34,748
2014 Chevy Traverse LTZ Dual Sunroofs, DVD, Leather, Loaded
MSRP - $46,765 GM Rebate - $32,250 Gentry Discount - $2,737 Gentry Price: 40,778
2014 Chevy Malibu LTZ Sunroof, Leather, Loaded
MSRP - $35,855 GM Rebate - $3,500 Gentry Discount - $1,964 Gentry Price: $30,391
2014 Chevy Cruze
MSRP - $19,660 GM Rebate - $2,000 Gentry Discount - $671 Gentry Price: $16,989
2014 Chevy 1500
entry hevrolet www.GentryChevyInc.com 801 West Collin Raye Dr. De Queen, AR 1-800-649-9929
MSRP - $26,670 GM Rebate - $4,000
(includes 1,500 trade allowance)
Gentry Discount - $1,023 Gentry Price: $21,647
2014 Chevy 1500 Crew Cab, 7.5 Inch Lift Kit, KMC Rock Star Wheels
Gentry Price: $47,137
2014 Chevy 1500
Double Cab, Black Out Pkg. (includes wheels, tires, black stripe, and black bow-ties)
Gentry Price: $38,445