05/01/2022
I am so thankful for this year’s Talimena Run. The CALL in Polk County took over this well-known marathon in December of 2021. We were so excited about bringing this timeless tradition back. I knew it would be difficult restarting it, but I knew God would see us through. I wanted to thank the people and business who made yesterday’s event such a success. First and foremost, I thank my Heavenly Father, for His guidance, wisdom, and favor. I could not have accomplished this without Him. My aid stations, Daniel Ryals and his crew at DLR Offroad. Hope Valdovins and Heather Tinnell with their crew from Chiquita’s. Charla Hollin and Shannon Rosson with the UARM RN students. I would like to thank Mena Police, Polk County Sheriff’s office, and the State Police for your help. Thank you to Southwest EMS, Chris Daniel for your coverage as well as saving me with your help in securing our HAM operators. Thank you to Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Thank you to all of our sponsors this year Pulse Media, Union Bank, Aleshire Electric, Miner A & B Tire, Crider Aircraft, Brodix, Chiquita’s, Chambers Bank, Washburn’s, UARM, and Sun County Inn. Thank you to Coach Rachel Dover for your relay team, Jason Hendrix and Pastor Mark Lyle for shuttle services. Mena First Assembly of God and Mena Church of God for lending us your church vans for our shuttles. A big thank you to our runners, you guys did amazing and should be very proud of yours. Thank you to Angie Graves, Bonnie Rippe, Carla White, and Sandy Tull for your guidance. To my CALL coordinators. WE MADE IT! Each of you have been god sent and I am grateful you have join this team with me. Thank you Heather Catlett, Kristi Hunter, Hope Valdovins, Heather Tinnell, Savannah Todd, Alyssa Green, Cassidi Hankins. I appreciate your dedication, hard work, and your unwavering commitment to this program. I am looking forward to Talimena Run & Relay 13.1 2023.
